Looking for realistic fiction chapter books for ages 8-12? You’re in the right place! Check out this list of 41 outstanding books!
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Realistic Fiction Chapter Books
The Thing about Jellyfish by Ali Benjamin
Written excellently, readers will be entranced by Suzy’s inner-workings after her best friend dies suddenly.
The Penderwicks: A Summer Tale of Four Sisters, Two Rabbits, and a Very Interesting Boy by Jeanne Birdsall
My favorite book of all time, The Penderwicks kicks off a top-notch series that is wonderful to read aloud with the whole family.
All Rise for the Honorable Perry T. Cook by Leslie Connor
This book is hard to put down and I have yet to meet a reader who hasn’t fallen in love with Perry T. Cook.
Pictures of Hollis Woods by Patricia Reilly Giff
This is a beautiful story of foster care and healing through art.
The Forget-Me-Not Summer by Leila Howland
Three sisters leave LA to spend the summer with their aunt on Cape Cod, and small town life isn’t what they thought it would be.
Wonder by R.J. Palacio
This story of kindness and friendship is a must read for every child. Check out the illustrated version for an added experience!
Becoming Naomi Leon by Pam Munoz Ryan
When Naomi’s mother returns after seven years of being gone, Naomi needs to discover who she is.
Liar & Spy by Rebecca Stead
Get ready for one of Stead’s plot twists that will change the whole story for your heart!
So B. It by Sarah Weeks
Heidi’s mother is mentally disabled, so Heidi knows nothing about her past — until they go on a journey of discovery.
Each Little Bird that Sings by Deborah Wiles
This story about a girl whose family owns a funeral home is full of amazing characters and relatable struggles.
Counting by 7s by Holly Goldberg Sloan
Not a story of grief — but Willow’s adoptive parents die, leaving her to find her way on her own.
Out of My Mind by Sharon M. Draper
Melody has cerebral palsy and is very intelligent with a lot to offer. She wants the world to know, despite her difficulties with talking and walking.
Scarlett by Cathy Cassidy
Scarlett is sent from London to Ireland to live with her father, stepmom, and stepsister. Through her new friend Kian, Scarlett learns to leave her anger behind and forge forward into her future.
Waiting for Normal by Leslie Connor
Addie’s mom is bipolar, and all Addie wants is a normal life.
Ruby Holler by Sharon Creech
Twins Dallas and Florida are back at their horrible orphanage after spending time in numerous foster homes. That is, until they’re sent into the great outdoors and their greatest chance for freedom yet.
Extra Credit by Andrew Clements
A story about penpals from Illinois and Afghanistan, Extra Credit is an amazing story that crosses cultures.
Ida B by Katherine Hannigan
This very funny story is about Ida B’s “dark period,” in which it feels as though life is against her. Does she have the resilience to make it through?
The Tiger Rising by Kate DiCamillo
A beautiful story about friendship, feelings, pain – and a caged tiger, The Tiger Rising is a must-read.
A Handful of Stars by Cynthia Lord
Salma, the daughter of migrant workers, and Lily, a town girl, become friends because of Lily’s blind dog. They explore the true meaning of friendship in this story of prejudice.
Goodbye Stranger by Rebecca Stead
Told from multiple middle school perspectives, Goodbye Stranger looks at a group of friends who are realizing they’re growing up (and maybe growing apart).
Belly Up by Stuart Gibbs
Teddy, the son of FunJungle employees, and Summer, the daughter of the FunJungle owner, work to solve the mystery of FunJungle’s murdered hippo.
Framed! by James Ponti
Florian, a twelve year old boy, is recruited to work for the FBI because of a little technique he calls TOAST (Theory of all Small Things). This is the first of three books about Florian working with the FBI and teaching his friend Margaret (and FBI agents) TOAST.
Roll With It by Jamie Sumner
When Ellie and her mother move to a new place to take care of her sick grandpa, Ellie feels like she has to start over. It, however, just might be the beginning of new friendships and baking possibilities.
Because of the Rabbit by Cynthia Lord
Emma starts middle school in a public school the day after she and her father find a bunny. Emma, wanting a friend, hopes her new rabbit will help her make a friend. Even though she may not find the friendship she expected, maybe she will find the friendship that matters.
The Line Tender by Kate Allen
Lucy lost her mom at seven years old, and another tragedy hits when she’s twelve years old. The Great White sharks in Cape Cod just might be what help her move forward. I’m not sure I’ll ever forget this book. It will squeeze your heart and never let go.
Insignificant Events in the Life of a Cactus by Dusti Bowling
Aven was born without her arms, and she knows when she moves with her family to fun a western theme park she will have to answer the “what happened to your arms” question often. Aven, however, is surprised to find a mystery, a new friend, and a whole lot of bravery.
The Van Gogh Deception by Deron R. Hicks
A boy is find in the National Gallery with no memory of who he is. He has to attempt to stop one a huge art fraud, all while trying to figure out who he is. The book has a QR codes in it that connects the reader to great art while reading.
Song for a Whale by Lynne Kelly
Iris feels alone as the only deaf person at her school — until she learns about Blue 55. Blue 55 is a whale who can’t talk to other whales. Feeling great empathy for Blue 55, Iris sets out on a journey to “sing” to Blue 55.
The Miscalculations of Lightning Girl by Stacey McAnulty
Because of a lightning strike, Lucy is a math genius. At twelve years old she’s almost ready for college — she just needs to get through middle school first. It’s a wonderful story of friendship.
Wish by Barbara O’Connor
Charlie’s wish for a family comes true in ways she never dreamed. (A happy dog story!)
More Book Recommendations for the Whole Family
- Friendship books for kids of all ages
- Adventure graphic novels
- Chapter books great for first through third graders
- Young adult books for teen girls and women
