Reading a lot of books is one thing. Finding the ones that stay with you — that’s something else. These are the five books that changed how I see the world. If you’re between 7 and 12, give one of these a try.
1. Charlotte’s Web — by E. B. White
I learned that being kind is a kind of bravery. Charlotte didn’t have to help Wilbur. She chose to. That made me think differently about every “small” thing people do for each other.
2. Holes — by Louis Sachar
This book taught me that stories don’t have to be told in a straight line. Past and present can dance together. That’s actually something I tried in The T‑Rex King — going back and forth in time to show why things matter.
3. The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe — by C. S. Lewis
A whole world hiding inside a wardrobe. That image stuck with me forever. Every time I open a book now, I ask: where’s the wardrobe in this one? Every great story has one.
4. Wonder — by R. J. Palacio
This one made me see my classmates differently. Everyone is carrying something you don’t know about. Choose kind — that line lives in my head all the time.
5. The One and Only Ivan — by Katherine Applegate
Told from the point of view of a gorilla. That blew my mind. It taught me that stories can be told by anyone — and that paying attention to creatures (or kids) people overlook is exactly where the best stories live.
Your reading challenge
Pick one of these five. Read it before the end of the month. Then tell me which one you chose and what stuck with you.
Want more reading challenges and book recs? Join the Roar for Reading initiative — monthly challenges, printable trackers, and a Reading Ambassador certificate when you complete them.
