Winter Reading for Kids: Books Parents Should Know About

Looking for great books to keep your child reading during the winter months?

This reading list for students in elementary and middle school is designed to help children stay engaged, build strong reading habits, and grow in character while spending more time indoors.

Winter is the perfect season to curl up with a good book. Reading not only helps children strengthen their skills but also allows their imaginations to grow. It also supports the Moral Focus™ Virtues we teach each day by encouraging curiosity, responsibility, and kindness as students explore stories that deepen their understanding of themselves and others.

Whether your child is just learning to read or enjoying independent chapter books, this list will help your family make the most of the season. Explore our cozy winter reading recommendations below.

Books for Kindergarten - 2nd Grade

The Pigeon HAS to Go to School! by Mo Willems
A funny, reassuring story about first-day-of-school nerves, helping kids face new experiences bravely and manage their feelings.
Moral Focus Virtues: Courage & Self-Control

Eyes That Kiss in the Corners by Joanna Ho
A lyrical celebration of self-love, family, and heritage, encouraging children to appreciate themselves and respect others.
Moral Focus Virtues: Respect & Gratitude

Ada Twist, Scientist by Andrea Beaty
Follow the endlessly curious Ada Twist as she asks big questions and explores the world through STEM experiments, promoting curiosity, critical thinking, and problem-solving.
Moral Focus Virtues: Wisdom & Perseverance

Books for 3rd-5th Grade

Dog Man by Dav Pilkey
A wildly entertaining graphic novel series full of humor, action, and heart, perfect for readers of all levels.
Moral Focus Virtues: Encouragement & Compassion

Charlotte’s Web by E.B. White
A timeless classic about friendship, kindness, and the circle of life.
Moral Focus Virtues: Encouragement & Compassion

The Tale of Despereaux by Kate DiCamillo
Follow a brave little mouse as he teaches important lessons about courage, compassion, and following your heart.
Moral Focus Virtues: Courage & Integrity

Because of Winn-Dixie by Kate DiCamillo
Experience a heartwarming tale of connection and community through the adventures of a girl and her spirited dog.
Moral Focus Virtues: Gratitude & Respect

The Wild Robot by Peter Brown
When a robot becomes stranded in the wilderness, she must learn empathy, survival, and what it means to belong.
Moral Focus Virtues: Compassion & Wisdom

Books for 6th-8th Grade

Front Desk by Kelly Yang
A powerful, relatable story about hard work, fairness, and family dreams.
Moral Focus Virtues: Perseverance & Integrity

Amari and the Night Brothers by B.B. Alston
An action-packed fantasy full of magic and mystery, following Amari as she discovers her strength, powers, and true identity.
Moral Focus Virtues: Courage & Self-Control

The One and Only Ivan by Katherine Applegate
This moving novel in verse shares a story of friendship, hope, and the quest for freedom through the eyes of a gentle gorilla.
Moral Focus Virtues: Compassion & Courage

Wonder by R.J. Palacio
A modern classic about empathy, acceptance, and the power of kindness.
Moral Focus Virtues: Respect & Integrity

The Miscalculations of Lightning Girl by Stacy McAnulty
A brilliant math prodigy navigates middle school, friendships, and self-confidence in a heartwarming, funny story.
Moral Focus Virtues: Wisdom & Self-Control