100 Best Books for 9 Year Old Boys That Will Keep Them Reading

Finding the best books for 9 year old boys can be tricky—one minute they’re devouring a series, and the next, they insist they don’t like reading.

When my son was 9, we went through phases where he’d only read graphic novels, followed by an obsession with adventure books.

Through trial and error, I discovered books that actually kept him hooked, and I’ve rounded up the best picks that other parents (and their kids) swear by too.

Whether your child loves humor, fantasy, or action-packed stories, this list has something they’ll want to read cover to cover.

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Top 10 Books for 9 Year Old Boys

Before getting into the full list of over 100 great books, I wanted to share the ones that made the biggest impact in our home.

These are the books my son couldn’t put down, the ones he reread, talked about, and even got his friends to read. If you’re looking for books that 9 year old boys actually love, these are our top 10 picks:

1. Harry Potter series by J.K. Rowling – The perfect mix of magic, friendship, and adventure.
2. Diary of a Wimpy Kid by Jeff Kinney – Hilarious, relatable, and easy to get hooked on.
3. Percy Jackson and the Olympians by Rick Riordan – Fast-paced, funny, and packed with mythology.
4. The Last Kids on Earth by Max Brallier – Monsters, humor, and a group of kids trying to save the world.
5. The Treehouse Storey Books by Andy Griffiths – Completely ridiculous (in the best way) and full of wild adventures.
6. Horrid Henry by Francesca Simon – For kids who love a little mischief and a lot of laughs.
7. Roald Dahl Collection – Whimsical, clever, and a must for every young reader.
8. The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien – A great first step into fantasy with an unforgettable adventure.
9. The Jungle Book by Rudyard Kipling – A classic filled with adventure and survival.
10. Deadly 60 by Steve Backshall – Packed with real-life animal encounters for kids who love the wild.

These books were huge hits in our house, but every kid is different. If your 9 year old is into something specific—whether it’s humor, mystery, or real-life adventures—there’s plenty more ahead to explore!

Best Book Series for 9 Year Old Boys

If your 9 year old loves getting lost in a great book, nothing beats a fantastic series. Once they connect with a story and its characters, they’ll want to keep turning the pages, book after book.

Here are some of the best book series for 9 year old boys, covering adventure, humor, mystery, and fantasy—something for every kind of reader.

1. Middle School Box Set by James Patterson. This series follows the humorous and sometimes challenging experiences of Rafe Khatchadorian as he navigates middle school. It’s a great choice for kids who enjoy relatable and funny stories.
2. Roald Dahl Collection. Roald Dahl’s timeless classics, including “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory,” “Matilda,” and “The BFG,” are must-reads for children of all ages. These imaginative and whimsical tales will transport young readers to fantastical worlds.
3. Harry Potter series (Books 1-7) by J.K. Rowling. No list of children’s book series is complete without the iconic Harry Potter series. Follow Harry, Ron, and Hermione as they embark on magical adventures at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.

4. The World of David Walliams. His books, like “Gangsta Granny” and “The Boy in the Dress,” are known for their quirky characters and hilarious stories. They offer a delightful blend of humor and heart.
5. Diary of a Wimpy Kid by Jeff Kinney. Greg Heffley’s diary entries provide a humorous glimpse into the life of a middle-schooler, complete with awkward situations and family escapades. The series is a hit with kids who appreciate humor and relatable stories.
6. Michael Morpurgo is a master storyteller known for books like “War Horse” and “Kensuke’s Kingdom.” His tales often revolve around the bond between humans and animals, offering both adventure and heartfelt moments.
7. The Treehouse Storey Books by Andy Griffiths. Join Andy and Terry in their ever-expanding, fantastical treehouse as they embark on imaginative adventures. Each book features a new floor with its own set of wild surprises.
8. Beast Quest The Hero Collection. This fantasy series is perfect for young readers who love epic quests and mythical creatures. Follow Tom as he battles to save Avantia from the evil wizard Malvel.
9. Horrid Henry by Francesca Simon. Henry’s mischievous antics and rebellious spirit make for entertaining reading. This series is full of humor and mayhem that kids find irresistible.
10. Percy Jackson and the Olympians by Rick Riordan. Dive into Greek mythology with Percy Jackson as he discovers his demigod heritage and embarks on quests to save the world. These books are packed with adventure and witty humor.
11. Captain Underpants by Dav Pilkey. George and Harold are pranksters who accidentally turn their school principal into the superhero Captain Underpants. This series combines humor, comic-style illustrations, and action-packed adventures.
12. The Last Kids on Earth by Max Brallier. A post-apocalyptic world filled with monsters becomes the backdrop for Jack and his friends’ daring adventures. These books are a thrilling combination of humor and action.
13. Big Nate Series by Lincoln Peirce. Follow the humorous escapades of Nate Wright, a middle school student with a big ego and an even bigger sense of humor. These books are great for kids who love comics and witty dialogue.
14. Tom Gates That’s Me by Liz Pichon. Join Tom Gates as he navigates the ups and downs of school life through doodles, drawings, and his quirky sense of humor. These books are a visual treat for young readers.
15. Theodore Boone Box Set by John Grisham. For budding legal enthusiasts, Theodore Boone is a kid lawyer who gets involved in intriguing cases. It’s a unique series that introduces young readers to the world of law and justice.
16. Goosebumps by R.L.Stine. A series of spine-tingling tales takes young readers on a thrilling journey through the world of the supernatural and the bizarre.
17. Wayside School by Louis Sachar. Readers are treated to a collection of zany and unforgettable stories set in the unconventional Wayside School. Where each classroom is on a different floor and peculiar events unfold.
18. Jim Smith’s Barry Loser. Dive into the world of Barry Loser, an endearing but slightly eccentric character who faces everyday challenges with a humorous twist. These books are great for kids who enjoy quirky humor.

Which Series is Right for Your 9 Year Old?

If they love laugh-out-loud humor, try Diary of a Wimpy Kid or Big Nate.
For big adventures and fantasy, go for Percy Jackson or Harry Potter.
If they enjoy solving mysteries, they’ll love Theodore Boone or Goosebumps.

Encouraging kids to read what excites them is the best way to turn them into lifelong readers.

Best Chapter Books for 9 Year Old Boys

Finding the right book for a 9-year-old can be tricky—some kids love laugh-out-loud stories, while others prefer adventure, mystery, or heartfelt tales.

Whether your child is a reluctant reader or an avid bookworm, these chapter books are packed with engaging stories and unforgettable characters.

19. Supergifted by Gordon Korman. In this hilarious and heartwarming sequel to “Ungifted,” Donovan Curtis faces new challenges as he joins the Academy for Scholastic Distinction. Readers will love following Donovan’s journey as he navigates his way through the world of gifted education.
20. The One and Only Ivan by Katherine Applegate tells the heartwarming story of a silverback gorilla named Ivan. Who, with the help of his friends, embarks on a journey to find a better life outside of captivity.
21. Restart by Gordon Korman. Another gem by Gordon Korman, “Restart” tells the story of Chase, a boy who wakes up with amnesia and a chance to reinvent himself. This thought-provoking novel explores themes of identity, friendship, and second chances.
22. To Wee or Not to Wee (Part of the “Pamela Butchart Baby Aliens” series). This series is perfect for young readers who enjoy a blend of humor and adventure. Join Izzy and her friends as they encounter aliens, solve mysteries, and embark on entertaining escapades. This is one of our favorite books for introducing Shakespeare to younger children.
23. The Jungle Book by Rudyard Kipling immerses readers in the captivating adventures of Mowgli. A young boy raised by wolves, in the wilds of the Indian jungle.
24. The Hobbit by J.R.R Tolkien follows the epic quest of Bilbo Baggins. An unassuming hobbit, who embarks on a grand adventure filled with dragons, dwarves, and treasure.
25. My Evil Twin is a Super Villain by David Soloman. Young Luke discovers his twin brother has turned into a super-villain. Leading to a humorous and action-packed battle of sibling rivalry.
26. How to Train Your Dragon: How to Break a Dragon’s Heart by Cressida Cowell. Continues the thrilling saga of Hiccup as he faces new challenges in the dragon-filled world of the Vikings.
27. Kid Normal by James Greg introduces readers to Murph. An ordinary kid with superpowers in a world of heroes and villains, resulting in hilarious adventures.
28. Rory Branagan Detective by Andrew Clover. Follows Rory, an aspiring detective with a knack for solving mysteries, as he takes on various cases in his quirky town.
29. The Private Blog of Joe Cowley by Ben Davis. Gives readers a glimpse into Joe’s humorous and relatable world as he navigates the challenges of school and teenage life through his blog.
30. Treasure Island by Robert Louis Stevenson immerses readers in a classic tale of swashbuckling adventure, buried treasure, and treacherous pirates.
31. Timmy Failure by Stephan Pastis. Introduces Timmy, a hilariously inept detective, as he attempts to solve crimes and mysteries with his dubious investigative skills.
32. How to Eat Fried Worms by Thomas Rockwell tells the tale of a dare that leads to a culinary challenge as Billy must consume fifteen worms in fifteen days. Testing his determination and friendship.
33. The Boy Who Lost His Face by Louis Sachar explores themes of friendship, loyalty, and peer pressure. As David grapples with the consequences of a seemingly harmless prank and seeks to make amends.

Which Book is Right for Your 9 Year Old?

If they love fantasy adventures, try The Hobbit or How to Train Your Dragon.
For laugh-out-loud humor, Timmy Failure or Supergifted are great picks.
If they enjoy solving mysteries, Rory Branagan or Treasure Island are a perfect fit.

Best History Books

History isn’t just about memorizing dates—it’s about epic battles, fascinating mysteries, and incredible people who changed the world.

Whether your child is interested in ancient civilizations, U.S. history, or strange historical mysteries, these books bring history to life in an exciting way.

34. History Year by Year. This visually appealing book offers a chronological journey through world history, showcasing key events, figures, and cultures year by year.
35. Everything You Need to Ace American History. A comprehensive guide to American history, this book is packed with essential information, timelines, and study tips, making it a valuable resource for young historians.
36. American History. Explore the history of the United States with this informative and engaging book that covers various periods, from early exploration to modern times.
37. 50 American Heroes. Learn about inspiring individuals who have made significant contributions to American history in this collection of biographical stories.
38. Interesting Stories for Curious People. This book offers intriguing historical anecdotes and facts that will captivate young readers’ curiosity about the past.
39. Case Closed? 9 Mysteries. Delve into historical mysteries and puzzles that will challenge young minds and encourage critical thinking.
40. Great Battles for Boys. Dive into the world of historical battles, from ancient warfare to modern conflicts, with vivid descriptions and insights.
41. Timelines of Everything. A visual feast for history enthusiasts, this book presents timelines that cover a wide range of topics, helping kids connect historical events and developments.
42. 20th Century American History for Kids. Explore the events and personalities that shaped America during the 20th century, from the Roaring Twenties to the Civil Rights Movement.
43. Horrible Histories. History comes to life in the “Horrible Histories” series, offering a fun and often gruesome look at different historical periods, making history lessons entertaining.
44. 15 of the best President Day books for kids. Learn about the U.S. Presidents and their contributions with this selection of biographical books focused on the nation’s leaders.
45. Over 40 of the most popular pirate books for kids. Dive into the thrilling world of pirates and maritime history with a collection of books filled with swashbuckling adventures.

If you are looking for even more school related books check out the best homeschool history books.

Top Geography Books for 9 Year Olds

Geography isn’t just about maps—it’s about discovering new places, cultures, and the wonders of the world.

These geography books will spark curiosity in young explorers, whether they’re fascinated by different countries, landmarks, or natural wonders.

46. The 50 States. This book provides an engaging overview of each of the 50 United States, including key facts, landmarks, and interesting trivia.
47. Road Trip Atlas for Kids. Perfect for young adventurers, this book offers maps and information about scenic routes, national parks, and interesting places to visit across the United States.
48. Geography A Visual Encyclopedia. This visual encyclopedia covers a wide range of geographical topics, from continents and countries to physical features and ecosystems.
49. Student World Atlas. An excellent resource for young geographers, this atlas provides detailed maps, facts, and information about countries and regions around the world.
50. Countries of the World. Explore the cultures, geography, and interesting facts about countries from every corner of the globe in this informative book.
51. Scrambled States of America. Join a humorous journey across the United States as states embark on an adventure, swapping places and learning fun facts along the way.
52. All Countries Capitals and Flags. This handy reference book offers an overview of countries, their capitals, and flags, helping kids learn more about the diverse world we live in.

Best Nature Books for Kids

For kids who love animals, adventure, and the great outdoors, these books are packed with fascinating facts, breathtaking wildlife, and hands-on activities.

Whether they’re interested in dinosaurs, survival skills, or endangered species, these books will encourage curiosity and a deeper appreciation for nature.

53. Dinosaur! by DK Publishing: Take a journey back in time with this visually stunning and informative book about dinosaurs. With detailed illustrations and fascinating facts, it’s a perfect choice for young paleontologists.
54. Deadly 60 by Steve Backshall: This book is a fantastic choice for kids who are intrigued by the animal kingdom’s more dangerous inhabitants. Steve Backshall’s adventurous encounters with wildlife make for exciting reading.
55. Last Chance to See by Douglas Adams and Mark Carwardine. This book offers a unique perspective on endangered species. Join the authors on a humorous and insightful journey as they search for some of the world’s most critically endangered animals.
56. 101 Outdoor Adventures by Stacy Tornio and Ken Keffer. This book is filled with exciting outdoor activities and adventures that will inspire kids to explore the natural world. It’s a great way to encourage them to spend more time outdoors.
57. Exploring Nature Activity Book by Kim Andrews. This activity book is packed with hands-on nature-related activities, puzzles, and games that will keep young nature enthusiasts engaged for hours. It’s an interactive way to learn about the environment.

Science Books for 9 Year Olds

For kids who love experiments, mind-blowing facts, and discovering how the world works, these science books make learning fun.

Covering topics like biology, chemistry, physics, and space, these science books will fuel curiosity and encourage young minds to think like scientists.

58. Horrible Science. Dive into the weird and wonderful world of science with the “Horrible Science” series, which presents scientific concepts in a humorous and accessible way, perfect for young scientists.
59. Science Encyclopedia. An informative and visually engaging encyclopedia that covers a wide range of scientific topics, making it a valuable resource for curious young minds.
60. Bacteria. Delve into the microscopic world of bacteria with this educational book, which explores their role in nature, human health, and various scientific discoveries.
61. Know Yourself (human anatomy books for kids). These interactive anatomy books provide engaging activities and games to help kids learn about the human body, making it a fun and educational experience.
62. The Fascinating Science Book for Kids: 500 Amazing Facts! Invites young readers on a journey through the intriguing world of science with 500 astonishing facts.
63. The Highlights Book of How: Discover the Science Behind How the World Works. Explains how everyday things work in an engaging and accessible way.

Best Art Reference Books for Kids

For young artists and creative minds, these books provide a fascinating look into famous artworks, photography, and artistic techniques.

Whether your child enjoys painting, drawing, or simply appreciating art, these books will help inspire creativity and artistic exploration.

64. The Arts A Visual Encyclopedia immerses young readers in the world of art. Offering a comprehensive visual journey through various artistic movements, styles, and techniques.
65. National Geographic Kids Guide to Photography empowers budding photographers with essential tips, inspiring images, and practical advice. Encouraging them to explore the art of photography.
66. The Story of Paintings: A History of Art for Children introduces children to the captivating tales behind famous artworks. Bringing art history to life through engaging narratives.
67. The Met Vincent van Gogh: He saw the world in vibrant colors offers a glimpse into the brilliant mind of Vincent van Gogh. Through his vibrant and expressive artworks, making his art accessible and inspiring for young readers.
68. A Child’s Introduction to Art: The World’s Greatest Paintings and Sculptures provides a vibrant and accessible entry point into the world of art. Showcasing masterpieces and their historical significance in an engaging manner.

Educational Books for 9 Year Olds

Learning goes beyond textbooks—these books introduce kids to history, science, philosophy, and real-world skills in an engaging way. Whether they’re fascinated by knights, inventions, business, or personal development, this list has something to spark curiosity.

69. Arms & Armor. Explore the fascinating world of historical weaponry and armor in this educational book, which offers insights into the evolution of combat gear and techniques.
70. Inventions. Discover the brilliant inventions that have shaped the world we live in, from ancient innovations to modern marvels, in this informative book.
71. Knight. Learn about the chivalrous world of knights, their armor, and their code of honor, providing historical insights into the Middle Ages.
72. Politics for Beginners. Introduce young readers to the world of politics and government with this accessible guide that explains complex concepts in a straightforward manner.
73. Business for Beginners. Teach kids about the fundamentals of business, entrepreneurship, and money management with this educational book.
74. What’s Happening to Me? A helpful resource for understanding the physical and emotional changes that come with adolescence, making it an essential read for tweens.
75. You Are Awesome. This motivational book empowers children with a positive mindset, teaching them about resilience, self-confidence, and embracing their unique qualities.
76. Art Visual Encyclopedia. Explore the world of art, from famous artists to various artistic movements and techniques, in this comprehensive visual encyclopedia.
77. Big Ideas for Curious Minds. This philosophy book for children encourages critical thinking and explores big philosophical questions in a way that’s accessible and thought-provoking.

As we homeschool we have a lot of educational books, but these are some that are great whether you homeschool or not.

Best Reference Books for Kids

Reference books don’t have to be boring! These fact-filled, trivia-packed, and knowledge-boosting books cover everything from history and science to life skills and pop culture.

Whether your child is a curious learner or just loves discovering cool facts, these books make learning fun.

78. If the World Were A Village. This book simplifies complex global statistics to make them more relatable for children, offering insights into the world’s population, languages, and cultures.
79. Weird But True World offers a fascinating collection of bizarre and surprising facts from around the globe.
80. The Book of Comparisons. This book presents fascinating facts and statistics, allowing kids to compare the sizes, speeds, and other attributes of animals, vehicles, and more.
81. Bet You Didn’t Know 2. An entertaining and educational collection of trivia and interesting facts that will keep kids engaged while expanding their knowledge.
82. Guinness World Records. This book showcases incredible achievements, record-breaking feats, and unusual facts from around the world, inspiring kids to aim high and dream big.
83. That’s Fact-tastic!: Mind-blowing, Eye-popping, Jaw-dropping Stuff About Our World
84. Merriam-Webster’s Elementary Dictionary. A comprehensive dictionary designed to help young readers expand their vocabulary and language skills.
85. Life Skills for Kids. This practical guide equips children with essential life skills, fostering independence and resilience.
86. Super Interesting Facts for Smart Kids. Dive into a world of intriguing facts and trivia that will engage and educate young minds.
87. Food Network Magazine The Big, Fun Kids Cookbook. A delightful cookbook filled with kid-friendly recipes and cooking tips for aspiring young chefs.
88. Mistakes That Worked. Explore a collection of accidental inventions and discoveries that changed the world through a series of fortunate mistakes.
89. The World Almanac. A trusted reference source offering a wealth of information on a wide range of topics, perfect for curious young readers.
90. Star Wars Encyclopedia of Starfighters and Other Vehicles. Uncover the incredible spacecraft and vehicles from the Star Wars universe in this informative and visually stunning encyclopedia.
91. What A Waste. A thought-provoking book that sheds light on environmental issues, waste management, and the importance of sustainability.
92. The Dragon Grammar Book. A fun and educational guide to grammar, designed to make learning language rules an enchanting adventure.

Best Activity Books

Activity books are a great way to keep kids engaged while developing problem-solving, logic, and creativity. Whether they enjoy puzzles, brain teasers, or coloring, these puzzle books provide hours of fun and learning.

93. The Everything Kids Puzzle Book. This book is a treasure trove of puzzles, mazes, and brain teasers that challenge kids’ problem-solving skills and critical thinking.
94. Brain Games for Clever Kids. Packed with brain-bending puzzles, riddles, and challenges, this book provides hours of stimulating fun while enhancing cognitive abilities.
95. Brain Games. A collection of brain-teasing puzzles and activities designed to keep young minds sharp and engaged, making it a great choice for mental exercises.
96. Coloring Books for Boys. These coloring books feature a variety of exciting and engaging themes, from vehicles and animals to superheroes, allowing kids to unleash their creativity.
97. Perfectly Logical. This activity book focuses on logical thinking and problem-solving, offering a range of puzzles and activities that encourage kids to think critically and logically.

Best Joke Books

Joke books are perfect for kids who love to laugh and entertain their friends. These books are filled with hilarious jokes, puns, and silly scenarios that guarantee endless giggles.

98. The Big Book of Silly Jokes for Kids by Carole P. Roman is a hilarious collection of age-appropriate jokes, including knock knock jokes, riddles, puns, and one-liners, guaranteed to keep young readers laughing.
99. Would You Rather? Eww Edition by C. Corey is a gut-busting and slightly gross compilation of hilarious and imaginative “Would You Rather” scenarios that will have kids laughing and cringing in equal measure.
100. Laugh out Loud Jokes for Kids by Rob Elliott. Rob Elliott’s jokes are always a hit with young readers, and this book is no exception. It’s a great choice for sharing laughter with friends and family.
101. Awesome Jokes That Every 9 Year Old Should Know! by Mat Waugh is a rib-tickling collection of age-appropriate jokes, puns, and one-liners. That promises to keep young readers and their friends laughing out loud while expanding their sense of humor.

What are your favorite books for 9 year old boys? Let me know in the comments below.

Last Updated on 14 May 2025 by Clare Brown