Explore the second set of our recommended books for Year 5 readers
At Teachitright, one of the questions we’re most frequently asked is which books we recommend for Year 5 children getting ready for the 11 Plus. To help families get started, we’ve put together a carefully selected collection of titles that are ideal for this stage.
We’ll be unveiling our recommendations across several blog posts in the weeks ahead, working through them in alphabetical order. In this second instalment, we continue our journey through the list with the next selection of titles.
Every book featured has been chosen to spark a love of reading, strengthen understanding and inference skills, and expand vocabulary – all essential foundations for children preparing for the 11 Plus.
Beowulf by Kevin Crossley-Holland
Mythical Beasts, Adventure, Fiction, Fantasy, Children’s Classic
This retelling of the classic epic poem follows Beowulf, a hero who battles the monstrous Grendel, Grendel’s vengeful mother, and a fearsome dragon. Set in ancient Scandinavia, the story explores themes of bravery, loyalty, and the struggle between good and evil.
Blabbermouth by Morris Gleitzman
Disability, Humour, School, Family & Friendship
Rowena can’t speak, but that doesn’t stop her from being funny, clever, and full of opinions. When she moves to a new town with her loudmouth dad, she faces bullies, misunderstandings, a frog-related incident she’d rather forget and a school talent show. This is a brilliant story about speaking up, even without words.
Café Chaos: My Family Is Not a Piece of Cake by Catherine Wilkins
Realistic Fiction, Humour, Family, School Life
Hope Crumble tries to stay low-key in an overactive household running Café Crumble. With her parents swamped, Grandma Margery baking, cousin Connor pitching ideas, and Auntie Rita turning up in her room uninvited, things quickly spiral into chaos. When her café and confidence are on the line, Hope steps up, dressing as a giant ice cream and launching school fundraisers, to save both the business and her sense of self. Full of humour, family drama, and surprising courage.
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory by Roald Dahl
Fantasy, Adventure, Humour, Classic Children’s Literature, Moral Tale
Charlie Bucket lives in poverty but dreams of chocolate. When he finds a golden ticket, he wins a tour of Willy Wonka’s magical chocolate factory. Along with other children, Charlie discovers a world of edible wonders and life lessons. Each child’s misbehaviour results in bizarre consequences, while Charlie’s humility earns him the ultimate reward. Dahl’s imaginative classic combines quirky humour with moral storytelling and dazzling invention.
Charlotte’s Web by E.B. White
Animal Fiction, Friendship, Fantasy, Classic Children’s Literature
Charlotte’s Web tells the story of Wilbur, a runt pig who is saved from slaughter by a kind girl named Fern. As Wilbur grows, he befriends a clever spider named Charlotte who hatches a plan to save him again – this time by writing messages in her web to praise him. Through themes of friendship, loyalty, and the cycle of life, the story gently explores loss and love in a farmyard setting, culminating in a deeply emotional and hopeful ending.
Deadlock by Simon Fox
Action, Adventure, Thriller, Mystery, Coming of Age
Archie Blake’s life turns upside down when his policeman father is arrested for stealing a diamond necklace. Armed with lock-picking skills and safe-cracking tricks his dad taught him “just for fun,” Archie goes on the run to prove his father’s innocence. But the deeper he digs, the darker the secrets, and the more dangerous the criminal underworld becomes.
Double Act by Jacqueline Wilson
Realistic Fiction, Twin Dynamics, School Life, Coming-of-Age
Identical twins Ruby and Garnet are inseparable, but very different – Ruby is loud and confident, Garnet is quiet and thoughtful. When their father introduces a new girlfriend and plans a move, their bond is tested. A scholarship opportunity forces them to confront their individuality and redefine what it means to be sisters.
Dragon Rider by Cornelia Funke
Fantasy, Mythical Creatures, Adventure, Quest
Firedrake, a young silver dragon, sets out to find the legendary Rim of Heaven, a safe haven for dragons. Joined by a brave boy named Ben and a sarcastic brownie named Sorrel, they face mythical creatures, ancient prophecies, and a deadly villain named Nettlebrand. It’s a quest of friendship, courage, and magic.
Dungeon Runners (Level 1: Hero Trial) by Kieran Larwood
Fantasy, Challenges, Humour, Heroes, Friendship
Hero Trial is a thrilling, fast-paced fantasy adventure, where Kit, a determined gnorf (part gnome, part dwarf), finally gets his chance to join the legendary Dungeon Running League. With his new teammates Sandy and Thorn, he faces mazes, monsters, puzzles, and treasure in a quest to prove himself. Packed with humour, heart, and heroic trials, it’s perfect for fans of epic quests and underdog stories.
Escape from Chernobyl by Andy Marino
Historical Fiction, Survival, Political, Adventure
On April 26, 1986, a catastrophic reactor explosion rocks Pripyat, Ukraine. Three brave children, 13-year-old Alina, her brother Lev, and their cousin Yuri, must escape the spreading radiation and an official cover-up. As they flee with family, fear, and suspicion in every shadow, they must rely on courage, trust, and quick thinking. This gripping historical thriller blends real events with heart-pounding adventure.
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!
