In the realm of literary development, the shift from chapter books to the realm of younger middle grade (ages 8-12 years old) books marks a pivotal juncture for fourth graders. This pivotal transition entails an evolution in their reading preferences, cognitive engagement, and literary exploration. In this article, we have compiled a list of the best books for 4th grade girls updated for 2023-2024 that cater to their evolving interests.
You will find books from different genres, about a variety of topics, and written in different eras. But one thing they all have in common? They’re all great reads.
Best Books for 4th Grade Girls – Our Top Picks
1. The Never Girls Collection
Produced by Disney, these books are guaranteed to take readers on a magical journey to Never Land.
The main characters are four best friends with one shared wish, to go to Never Land. In a magical turn of events their wish is granted, and the collection of stories begins.
Meeting the famous Disney character, Tinkerbell and her friends along the way, the girls find themselves caught up in a whole host of mystical adventures.
Full of fairies, fun, and friends; these books are fabulous reads for 4th-grade girls.
2. The Wishing Spell (The Land of Stories #1)
Great for girls that love traditional fairytale stories. The Wishing Spell is the first in the series named The Land of Stories.
The first book in the series begins when twins Conner and Alex are given a book of fairytales, and they are magically transported to a land where these fairytales are real.
With familiar characters such as Cinderella, Red Riding Hood, and Goldilocks, the book is wonderful for girls who have read the traditional Brothers Grimm stories and who are curious about what happened next. Did they get their happily ever after? And, what other problems may lay in store?
3. The Worst Witch
Set in a boarding school for witches, The Worst Witch combines classic tales of boarding school life with the messy magic of trainee witches.
The main character Mildred Hubble is by far the worst witch in the school. Her magical mishaps bring an amusing tone to the books. But later on in the story, it is time for Mildred to be taken seriously when she discovers a magical plot to cause mayhem at the academy.
An enjoyable and lighthearted read, this book was first published in 1974 and is still one of the best books for 4th-grade girls.
4. Tales of a Fourth-Grade Nothing
This book is the first in the Fudge series of books written by award-winning author Judy Bloom.
Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing is a story of a frustrated older brother with a rather mischievous little brother named Fudge. The dynamic between the two brothers and the problems faced by Peter, the elder of the two, is instantly relatable to 4th graders with younger siblings. And for others, the chaos caused by Fudge is simply hilarious to read about.
Written from a 4th grader perspective the book guarantees to engage fourth-grade students.
5. The Suitcase Kid
The author, Jaqueline Wilson, is a true legend when it comes to writing books for girls. And this is just one of her award-winning titles.
The Suitcase Kid stars a 10-year-old girl called Andy. Unfortunately, Andy’s parents are going through a divorce and Andy is caught in the middle.
An honest but uplifting story about how Andy’s world becomes disrupted and how everything comes right in the end. It is a reassuring story for any 4th grader experiencing family disruption. And also an eye-opening look at how families come in many different shapes and sizes.
6. Because of Mr. Terupt
The story begins with 7 very different students, each with different issues, who don’t see eye-to-eye. When Mr Terupt arrives, he has his work cut out for him as he tries to teach his class the importance of getting along and banding together to support one another.
But in a dramatic twist, poor Mr. Terupt has a serious accident. Leaving his students without his wise guidance. Will they remember everything he has taught them so far or will they slip back to their old habits?
This book is an exciting read but also teaches 4th graders important lessons about class relationships and teamwork.
7. The World of Beverly Cleary Collection
The World of Beverly Cleary Collection is a top choice for 4th-grade girls. There are 4 books in this set which feature some o the best books from the famed author Beverly Cleary.
Including some of her best characters, such as Ramona, Ralph. S. Mouse and Henry Huggins, this collection is bound to contain more than a few hits.
All the books are aimed at readers aged 8-12, therefore making them accessible for 4th-grade students to read independently.
8. Matilda
By the renowned author Roald Dahl, Matilda is about a 6-year old girl from a troubled family.
The main character is a strong-willed little girl who shows steely courage in the face of mistreatment. Her bold character and the way Dahl brings her to life, make her an instant hit with many 4th-grade girls.
Roald Dahl’s quirky writing styles, brilliant character descriptions, and truly original storylines mean this book should not be missed.
9. Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone
This book probably needs a little introduction or explanation. It is the first in a series of 7 modern-day classics about the wizarding world.
Written by J.K. Rowling, the first book in the series has a less complicated storyline than the later books and is, therefore, a good choice for fourth-grade readers.
Harry Potter’s popularity speaks for itself.
10. Kensuke’s Kingdom
For girls that love adventure, Kensuke’s Kingdom is worthy of a place in the best books for 4th-grade girls in 2021.
When Michael becomes stranded on a deserted island his fight for survival begins. Although, Michael soon comes to realize that he might not be alone as he first thought.
This multi-award-winning book written by author, Michael Morpurgo, is a must-read!
11. Charlotte’s Web
Published almost 70 years ago, Charlotte’s Web has earnt its place in our list of best books for 4th-grade girls for 2023-2024. This classic book is set on a farm and tells a heartwarming story of friendship and love.
The main characters take the form of a barn spider named Charlotte and a pig called Wilbur. The two of them strike up a friendship and when Wilbur is being considered for the slaughterhouse, Charlotte comes to the rescue. Unfortunately, like all spiders with a short lifespan, Charlotte’s time comes to an end. Wilbur eventually finds comfort in getting to know her offspring.
This story takes readers on an emotional rollercoaster and teaches them about love, friendship, and death, all in one beautiful story.
12. Artemis Fowl
Artemis Fowl has been a big hit with both girls and boys for decades and the books have made a revival recently thanks to the popular TV adaptation.
The story is about Artemis, a 12-year-old criminal mastermind who kidnaps a fairy and holds her to ransom. But has Artemis underestimated the underground world?
As the fairies fight back, armed with all sorts of fairy powers, Artemis is left searching for allies.
Best Books for 4th Grade Girls – Final Thoughts
We have included everything from fairies in Never Land to kidnaped fairies of the underworld, in order to give your 4th-grade girl the reading options they deserve. Take your time to browse the list with them and happy reading!