Book Recommendation
Book Series for 8-12 year old
“There is more treasure in books than in all the pirate’s loot on Treasure Island.” – Walt Disney
If your child likes fantasy, and enjoys reading books like Harry Potter, here are some suggestions that he might enjoy. These are series that my child, an avid reader, and a lover of fantasy can’t stop talking about.
So here goes:
1. Harry Potter
Nothing much needs to be said about this series. Everyone knows about them and most of us have read the books and watched the movies.
One thing that I will suggest is that let the child read the books before watching the movies. It will help them form their own images and understanding of the story and characters. If they watch the movie first, then as they read the book, instead of their own images forming in their heads, it is the scene from the movie that they replay, and it takes away part of the fun of reading a book.
Harry Potter Box Set (Amazon India)
Harry Potter Box Set (Amazon US)
Also Read: How to Develop the Habit of Reading in Children
2. Wings of Fire
Who doesn’t like dragons? Who doesn’t like a quest and prophesies? Wings of Fire series are a perfect combination of all this. With dragon tribes living in a continent, with fights and superpowers, with strong friendships, bravery and overcoming all odds, these series are a must read.
There are three series, each with five books. I found all the three series gripping and interesting. The protagonists are different in each of the three series, but characters do overlap giving it a sense of continuity. I’m sure your children will thoroughly enjoy these books written by Tui T Sutherland.
Wings of Fire (Books 1 to 5) (Amazon India)
Wings of Fire (Books 1 to 5)(Amazon US)
3. Percy Jackson
In the world created by Rick Riordan, half-bloods still live on Earth. They are children of a human and a God. It is the story of Percy Jackson, a child who had lived a normal kid’s life when he realises that he is a half-blood. As he tries to fit in, in the school for such children, he has to go on quest to save a deadly war between the Gods. The book series is very well written, engaging and you can’t help but love and empathise with Percy.
The movie however, falls short. I would recommend reading the books first. You may skip the movie altogether or watch it only after reading the books.
If your child wants to understand Greek Mythology, read the review of D’Aulaires’ Book of Greek Myths
4. Artemis Fowl
Artemis Fowl is no ordinary child of eleven years. He is a criminal mastermind. There is a world of fairies and trolls deep underground. These fairies are also not the cute little fluttery things that spread happiness by waving their wands. They are fighters, technologically advanced beings. It is a gripping series, well written and engaging.
The movie is a big let down and not recommended to watch. Not just the story line but even the characters in the movie seem very different from the ones in the books.
The books, however, are great and will give a different perspective about ‘fairy tale’ creatures to the children.
Artemis Fowl – Book 1 (Amazon India)
Also Read: How my 7-year-old read 80 books in a year
5. Dragon Keepers Series
This is a book for children who have not yet read Harry Potter series. It could be a good introduction to the world of fantasy for younger kids who are not yet ready to handle the other books. In this, Jesse and Daisy unwittingly become Dragon Keepers, when they have to take charge of a newborn dragon named Emmy. They have to protect Emmy from the evil St George.
Written by Kate Klimo, it is an interesting series to start off the kids on the other fantasy series.
Dragon Keepers Book 1 (Amazon India)
Dragon Keepers Book 1 (Amazon US)
6. Forgotten Five Series
The first book of the series, Map of Flames was released in March 2022 and was an instant hit. It is the story of five supernatural kids who grew up in a remote place. When they are abandoned by their criminal parents, they find a flaming map and enter the civilization for the first time in search of treasure. The characters are unique and have distinct personalities and they almost become your friends as they navigate the real world for the first time. The story ends on a cliffhanger. The second book in the series is expected to be released in November 2022.
You might also like to read the book review of Chronicles of Narnia
“Show me a family of readers, and I will show you the people who move the world.”
Napoléon Bonaparte
This is not a paid article. All opinions are that of the author. The Intelligent Parent earns referral amount if you purchase from any of the links mentioned.
The Intelligent Parent 
These are great suggestions, and Harry Potter really is a great series to introduce to the 8-12-year-old demographic. Thank you for sharing, and check out our most recent posts at rockingspecterblog.wordpress.com.
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Thank you!
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You’re welcome!
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These are good books for kids 8-12 years old. Even we adults love these books. I remember when I was a kid, I loved reading Enid Blyton books so much. I still love reading them now.
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Thank you. I loved reading Enid Blyton as well from Famous Fives to Malory Towers and Twins of St Claire’s – loved them all.
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Perfect! i have a child about that age. Thanks for all the recommendations 😀
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That’s great. I hope your child likes these!
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