Lower Key Stage 2
Welcome to our Top 10 Books for Children in Lower Key Stage 2 Ages 7–9 . Perfect for children in Lower Key Stage 2, these books support the development of reading skills while encouraging independent reading and a love for storytelling. With engaging plots and relatable characters, these books are ideal for building confidence, improving comprehension, and supporting reading independence. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or caregiver, our handpicked list offers a variety of genres and themes, ensuring every child finds something they will enjoy.
- The Bad Guys by Aaron Blabey
Age: 7-9
Description: A fun series about a group of “bad guys” (a wolf, shark, piranha, and snake) who are trying to become heroes. With humour and action, this book encourages kids to rethink what it means to be good or bad.
Topics Covered: Friendship, teamwork, self-improvement, humour.
Review: “The bad guys is so funny!” – Riley, age 8
2. Dog Man by Dav Pilkey
Age: 7-9
Description: A graphic novel series about Dog Man, a part-dog, part-man hero who solves crimes and fights villains. The series is funny, fast-paced, and full of quirky characters.
Topics Covered: Heroes, friendship, problem-solving, humour.
Review: “Dog Man is my favourite! He’s so funny and always saves the day.” – Anya, age 9
3. Tom Gates by Liz Pichon
Age: 7-9
Description: Tom Gates is a funny and relatable character who keeps a diary of his everyday adventures, school life, and interactions with his friends and family. The books are full of doodles and fun illustrations.
Topics Covered: School life, family, humour, friendship.
Review: “Tom Gates is hilarious! His doodles are so funny, and I like reading about his school adventures.” – Eddie, age 8
4. The Wild Robot by Peter Brown
Age: 7-9
Description: When a robot named Roz wakes up alone on an island, she must learn how to survive in the wilderness and understand the creatures around her. This thought-provoking story explores themes of belonging and environmental change.
Topics Covered: Nature, technology, survival, identity.
Review: “I loved watching Roz learn about the animals and make friends. It was such a heart-warming story!” – Lucy, age 9
5. Amari and the Night Brothers by B.B. Alston
Age: 7-9
Description: Amari, a young girl from a troubled background, is recruited by a secret magical agency to search for her missing brother. This action-packed fantasy is full of twists, mystery, and magical creatures.
Topics Covered: Friendship, magic, family, courage.
Review: “Amari is awesome! She never gave up, even when everything seemed impossible!” – Jack, age 8
6. The BFG by Roald Dahl
Age: 7-9
Description: Sophie befriends the Big Friendly Giant, and together they embark on an adventure to stop the bad giants from eating children. Full of adventure and Dahl’s quirky humour.
Topics Covered: Friendship, bravery, adventure, imagination.
Review: “The BFG is so funny and kind! I loved this story !” – Amelia, age 8
7. Leonora Bolt: Secret Inventor by Lucy Brandt
Age: 7-9
Description: Leonora Bolt is an adventurous and clever girl with a passion for inventing. When she discovers that her parents’ disappearance is linked to an invention of theirs, she embarks on a thrilling journey to uncover the mystery behind it.
Topics Covered: Adventure, problem-solving, friendship, bravery, creativity.
Review: “Leonora is so smart and brave! I loved how she used her inventions to solve big mysteries.” – Grace, age 9
8. The Boy Who Grew Dragons by Andy Shepherd
Age: 7-9
Description: This magical adventure follows a young boy named Tomas who discovers that the tree in his grandfather’s garden isn’t just any ordinary tree – it grows dragons! Tomas is soon faced with the challenges of keeping his new dragon friends hidden while dealing with all the fun and chaos they bring.
Topics Covered: Friendship, magic, responsibility, adventure.
Review: “I loved the adventures that Tomas and the dragon had.” – Kenzie, age 7
9. Varjak Paw by SF Said & Dave McKean
Age: 7-9
Description: Varjak Paw is a young cat who lives in a sheltered, isolated life with his family. When his home is overtaken by a mysterious and dangerous force, Varjak is forced to venture outside into the city for the first time. Varjak faces numerous challenges and makes new friends, learning about courage, survival, and what it means to be true to oneself.
Topics Covered: Courage, adventure, self-discovery, friendship.
Review: “Varjak is so brave! I loved reading about how he learns to fight and be strong!” – Marco, age 8
10. Charlie Changes into a Chicken by Sam Copeland
Age: 7-9
Description: Charlie is an ordinary boy who suddenly finds himself changing into different animals, including a chicken! At first, it seems like a funny, bizarre situation, but Charlie soon realizes that these unexpected transformations come with their own set of challenges.
Topics Covered: Friendship, self-acceptance, humour, courage.
Review: “I loved when Charlie turned into a chicken! It was so funny, but also a little bit sad”– Axel, age 8