Bridge to Terabithia by Katherine Paterson is a chapter book that follows two fifth graders, one a boy named Jess (from his point of view) and the other a girl named Leslie, who form a friendship with each other and create the world of Terabithia in a secret spot in the woods.  At the beginning of the novel, Jess doubts himself and is full of fear about life, but Leslie helps Jess let go of those fears and pushes him to live his life how he wants to, especially when Leslie suddenly tragically dies.  One way teachers could use this book in the classroom is to have students share fears they have had and how they have faced them or plan to face them.  Bridge to Terabithia could also be used as a Literature Circle novel for students to read and discuss with their peers.  Bridge to Terabithia has a Lexile reading level of 810L, which is Grades 3 to 4.  

This was one of my favorite books growing up. I love how much creativity and imagination was put into it. Reading this book is like an adventure itself. You can truly visualize the settings, even though they’re unrealistic.

In the classroom, this book could be used for a class reading, literature circles, independent reading, etc. There is so much content that can be used for comprehension lessons also.

• Lexile Measure: 940L

Paddington bear was found in a London train station with a note around his neck saying, "Please look after this bear, thank you." The Browns just couldn't pass by and do nothing, so they took him home, not realizing that things would never be the same. Paddington was a sweet bear and he tried to do the right thing, but somehow it always ended in a mess. Grab a copy of this book and experience all of the crazy predicaments that Paddington finds himself in. Trust me, you won't want to put it down. It's too much fun!

Use in the classroom: I would use this book during Literature circles and have students really dig deep into the text. I might even have a research project on Peru and London... have students find facts about each. I would also like them to create their own suitcases and bring things from home that are special to them.

Target grades: 3rd-5th

Ramona Quimby, Age 8 is such a fun book! It is sure to have every eight year old hooked because of it's relatability and humor. In this book, poor Ramona just cannot catch a break. Not only does she have to adjust to a changing home-life, but she has to endure some seriously embarrassing situations at school. Ramona handles it all the best way she knows how, unfortunately, that sometimes ends in a tangled mess. Go grab a copy and experience the life of an eight year old Ramona, you won't regret it.

Use in the classroom: I would use this book in a Literature Circle unit. I would have students divided into groups and after they read a certain amount of chapters, they would have an activity to complete (comprehension questions, conflict map, character map, etc.). 

Target grade: 3rd-4th