Explore the first set of our recommended books for Year 5 readers
At Teachitright, we often get asked which books are best for Year 5 readers preparing for the 11+. We’ve created a long list of recommendations, packed with stories that stretch vocabulary and spark curiosity. We’ll be sharing them in a few blog posts over the coming weeks, starting alphabetically – so today’s list features our first ten titles, from A to B!
Each story below has been chosen to inspire confident reading, build comprehension skills, and support vocabulary growth – all of which help children on their 11+ journey.
A Beginner’s Guide to Ruling the Galaxy by David Solomons
Science Fiction, Fantasy, Comedy, Friendship
Gavin’s life takes a bizarre turn when Niki, a mysterious and bossy new neighbour, reveals she’s a galactic princess on the run. Her alien parents are threatening to destroy Earth unless she returns. Gavin, who just wants a normal life, is suddenly caught in a cosmic mess involving talking cats, space cannibals, and an AI unicorn. Can he help save the planet, and survive Niki’s company?
A Case of Grave Danger by Sophie Cleverly
Fantasy, Mystery, Historical Fiction, Paranormal
Violet Veil wants nothing more than to prove her worth and become her father’s apprentice at Veil Sons Undertakers. And one rain-soaked night she gets her chance when she meets a boy, Oliver, who is wandering around the graveyard. Only, the last time Violet saw Oliver, he was indoors and very much dead, waiting to be buried. Victoria has just found her first case, and it doesn’t get bigger than this: can she, with the help of her dog, Bones, help Oliver solve his own ‘murder’?
A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens
Historical Fiction, Ghost Story, Moral Tale, Children’s Classic
Mean old Ebenezer Scrooge hates Christmas – until he’s visited by three ghosts who take him on a journey through his past, present, and future. Can he change his ways before it’s too late? This timeless tale teaches the power of kindness, generosity, and second chances.
A Dog So Small by Philippa Pearce
Realistic Fiction, Imagination, Family, Coming-of-Age, Children’s Literature
Ben desperately wants a dog, but when his parents can’t give him one, he imagines a tiny companion of his own. As fantasy blends with reality, Ben learns lessons about patience, imagination, and growing up. This thoughtful novel explores longing, family, and emotional resilience with tenderness.
Alice Éclair: Spy Extraordinaire! A Recipe for Trouble by Sarah Todd Taylor
Historical Fiction, Spy & Espionage, Mystery, Adventure
Alice Éclair is a brilliant young baker with a secret: she’s also a spy! When a cryptic message sends her aboard the glamorous Sapphire Express, Alice must uncover an enemy agent before the train reaches its final stop. With her whisk, her wits, and a suitcase full of courage, she races against time to solve the mystery. A delicious blend of espionage, adventure, and pastries awaits!
Aquila by Andrew Norriss
Science Fiction, School, Humour, Adventure
When Tom finds a mysterious spaceship buried in the school playing field, he and his friend Geoff are launched into a wild adventure involving aliens, invisibility, and danger! A funny and exciting sci-fi story full of clever twists.
Artemis Fowl by Eoin Colfer
Science Fiction, Crime, Action, Humour
Artemis Fowl, a 12-year-old criminal mastermind, kidnaps a fairy to restore his family’s fortune. But the magical world fights back. A fast-paced blend of tech, myth, and wit, this story pits genius against magic in a battle of brains and bravery.
A Wizard of Earthsea by Ursula K. Le Guin
Fantasy, Adventure, Coming-of-Age, Wizardry
Ged, a gifted boy from the island of Gont, is sent to a school of wizardry to master his magical talents. But his pride leads him to unleash a dark shadow, an ancient evil that threatens the world and himself. To defeat it, Ged must embark on a perilous journey across the archipelago of Earthsea, confronting dragons, temptation, and ultimately, the darkest parts of his own soul.
Beetle Boy by M. G. Leonard
Fantasy, Adventure, Science Fiction, Humour, Animals
A quirky, fast-paced adventure that blends mystery, science, and heart. When Darkus’s father vanishes, he discovers a world of intelligent beetles and a villainous fashionista with sinister plans. With help from his insect allies, Darkus uncovers secrets and learns the power of friendship and courage. Clever, funny, and surprisingly touching, this story is perfect for readers who love bugs, brains, and bold heroes.
Belly Flop by Morris Gleitzman
Realistic Fiction, Friendship, Humour, Sport
Mitch dreams of being a diving champion, but his drought-stricken town has no water. With help from a guardian angel and a girl with a frozen guinea pig, he learns that courage and kindness make the biggest splash, even when the pool is dry.
Encouraging a love of reading
Each of these books offers something unique – from imagination and adventure to humour and heart. Encouraging your child to read regularly not only helps expand vocabulary but also builds comprehension and confidence, key skills for 11+ success.
Stay tuned for the next instalment in our Year 5 reading list series, where we’ll share even more brilliant titles to enjoy!
