40+ Fantastic Books for 6th Grade Girls to Read with Printable
Published:
January 11, 2025
Contributor:
Sarah Shelton
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Finding just the right books for 6th grade girls can help her fall in love with reading, spark her imagination, and teach important lessons. If you are looking for books for your daughters, you are going to love this list to help them get excited for reading!
At this age, girls are exploring new interests, growing more independent, and learning about themselves. Books can help to reflect on those experiences. I have three daughters, and I know how difficult it can be to find great books that can excite even the most reluctant readers.
Most of my girls struggled with reading, and it was hard to find books that they could love. I have found that around the 5th and 6th grade is when they started to really get excited about reading.
This list includes many of our favorites and has a variety of genres, from classic literature and historical fiction to action-packed adventures, heartfelt animal stories, and inspiring Christian series. Each recommendation will captivate young readers with engaging stories and relatable themes that resonate with girls navigating this unique stage of life.
Classic Books for Sixth Graders
Classic books are stories that have been loved for generations and continue to excite children with their relatable characters, meaningful lessons, and fun adventures. They are fun to share with your children because you may be able to recall falling in love with them as a child and now you get to relive them with your own.
A Little Princess
This touching story by Frances Hodgson Burnett follows Sara Crewe, a kind hearted girl who faces a sudden fall from privilege to poverty when her father dies and she is left penniless at her boarding school. Despite her hardships, Sara remains hopeful and generous, proving that inner strength and kindness can transform even the darkest situations.
Anne of Green Gables
Follow the imaginative and spirited Anne Shirley, an orphan mistakenly sent to live with Marilla and Matthew Cuthbert, a brother and sister who intended to adopt a boy to help on their farm. In this remarkable coming-of-age classic by L.M. Montgomery Anne navigates life, love, and friendship in the charming town of Avonlea.
Black Beauty
The story follows the life of Black Beauty from his perspective. It shows his early days on a farm to the challenges and hardships he faces under different owners. Along the way, Black Beauty experiences kindness and cruelty, forming bonds with both humans and fellow animals.
This timeless tale by Anna Sewell highlights themes of compassion, animal welfare, and the importance of treating all living creatures with respect.
My girls loved this book so much, but I recommend reading it together if you have a child that is sensitive to animal abuse.
Heidi
This is the story of a young orphan girl named Heidi, who is sent to live with her reclusive grandfather in the Swiss Alps. As Heidi grows, she brings joy and warmth to her grandfather’s life while forming close bonds with new friends, learning important lessons about love, family, and the beauty of nature. Written by Johanna Spyri
Little Women
This heartfelt tale of the four March sisters: Meg, Jo, Beth, and Amy explores their joys, challenges, and strong family bonds during the Civil War era. Through trials, triumphs, and heartbreak, the sisters learn about love, loss, and the importance of family, shaping them into the “little women” their mother hopes they will become. Written by Louisa May Alcott.
My Side of the Mountain
This is the story of Sam Gribley, a young boy who runs away from his New York City home to live in the wilds of the Catskill Mountains. Alone in the wilderness, Sam learns to survive by building a shelter, hunting for food, and befriending animals, all while discovering his own strength and independence. Written by Jean Craighead George.
This is a book about a boy and his falcon, but it was a favorite book for every single one of my girls!
The Secret Garden
A young, spoiled girl named Mary Lennox who, after being sent to live with her uncle in England, discovers a hidden, neglected garden. As she ventures into the garden, she forms an unlikely friendship with a young boy named Dickon and her cousin Colin, who is confined to a wheelchair. Together, they restore the garden and, in the process, transform their own lives, learning the healing power of nature, friendship, and love. Written by Frances Hodgson Burnett.
The Witch of Blackbird Pond
This Newbery Medal winning novel by Elizabeth George Speare tells the story of Kit Tyler, a spirited young girl who moves from Barbados to the strict Puritan community of Wethersfield, Connecticut, in the late 1600s. Kit befriends a kind outcast named Hannah Tupper, rumored to be a witch.
Through themes of courage, friendship, and standing up for what’s right, this historical fiction novel offers an engaging and thought-provoking read that resonates with young readers.
Historical Fiction
These books for 6th grade girls will take your girls on journeys through different time periods, each offering a rich historical perspective and unforgettable characters that bring history to life.
Anne Frank: The Diary of a Young Girl
13-year-old Anne Frank shares the story of her life in hiding during World War II, offering a perspective on the struggles faced by Jewish families in a different time period. Anne’s diary captures her thoughts, fears, and hopes as she navigates life in an attic, providing a personal and moving glimpse into history.
Behind Rebel Lines: The Incredible Story of Emma Edmonds, Civil War Spy
This fascinating historical story by Seymour Reit follows Emma Edmonds, a woman who disguises herself as a man to fight as a spy during the American Civil War.
My girls absolutely loved this book!
Echo Mountain
Set in the early 1900s, Echo Mountain tells the story of a young girl named Ellie who moves with her family to a remote mountain cabin after her father’s accident. She learns to survive in spite of the challenges of life in the wilderness. Written by by Lauren Wolk.
The True Confessions of Charlotte Doyle
This gripping adventure, written by Avi, follows 13-year-old Charlotte Doyle, a young girl who unexpectedly finds herself aboard a ship in the 1830s. Throughout her journey, she learns about courage, leadership, and the complexities of human nature, while living at sea. A Newbery Honor Book.
Action Adventure Books
These chapter books feature strong heroines, thrilling plots, and exciting adventures that will keep 6th grade girls hooked from start to finish!
The Adventurers Guild
This action-packed novel set in a city that is surrounded by deadly monsters. It follows a group of young friends who are chosen to join a guild of adventurers. As they train to protect their home, they uncover secrets and conspiracies that threaten their world. They must face dangerous creatures and obstacles, all while learning to work together and grow as individuals. Written by by Zack Loran Clark and Nick Eliopulos.
The Forbidden Library
This is the first book in a series written by by Django Wexler that follows 12-year-old Alice, who discovers a mysterious library filled with magical books and dangerous secrets after her father goes missing. With its mix of mystery, magic, and adventure, this book is a thrilling read for middle-grade readers.
The Library of Ever
This is a magical adventure that follows 12-year-old bookseller, Prue McKeel, who discovers a hidden library that contains all of the knowledge in the universe. When she is chosen to be the newest librarian, Prue embarks on an incredible journey through time and space to protect the library and its secrets from dangerous forces. Written by by Zeno Alexander
The Penderwicks
This series by Jeanne Birdsall is about four spirited sisters: Rosalind, Skye, Jane, and Batty, who embark on fun-filled adventures while navigating family life, friendships, and growing up.
With its charming mix of humor, sibling bonds, and lighthearted mischief, the series captures the joys and challenges of childhood. It’s perfect for readers who enjoy character-driven stories filled with warmth, wit, and timeless life lessons.
Princess Academy
Miri is a poor mountain girl who is sent to an academy to train to become a princess. As she faces challenges in both academics and personal growth, Miri embarks on an adventure that will test her courage and leadership. As Miri struggles to find her place, she discovers her strength, intelligence, and the power of community. A Newbery Honor Winner written by Shannon Hale.
The Wild Robot
When a robot named Roz washes ashore on a remote island, she must learn to survive in the wilderness, befriending animals and discovering her place in the natural world. It’s an adventure by Peter Brown is full of heart and survival instincts.
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We have a FREE download of the Books for 6th Grade Girls Tracker available for you at the bottom of this post. Keep scrolling to get your copy today!
Graphic Novels
A graphic novel is a great way for reluctant readers to get excited about reading. The artwork can draw readers in, and the format is often easier to follow, making it less intimidating than a traditional book. Here are some popular ones that are good books for 6th grade girls to read.
El Deafo
In this graphic novel memoir, Cece Bell shares her experiences growing up with a hearing impairment. She uses a special hearing aid, which she dubs “The Phonic Ear,” and imagines herself as a superhero, “El Deafo,” to cope with the challenges of fitting in and communicating with others
Hilda and the Troll (Hildafolk)
The Hilda series follows the adventures of a young girl named Hilda who lives in a world filled with magical creatures and strange happenings. In Hilda and the Troll, she sets off on a journey to uncover the mysteries of her enchanted world – a place where mountains move and trolls walk. Written by Luke Pearson
Nameless City
Set in a fictional city that has been invaded and taken over multiple times by different cultures, Nameless City by Faith Erin Hicks follows a young boy named Kaidu and his friendship with a local girl named Rat. As they uncover the secrets of their city’s past, they also explore themes of identity, loyalty, and revolution.
Smile
In this autobiographical graphic novel, Raina Telgemeier tells the story of her middle school years, focusing on her struggles with dental issues, friendship, and growing up. It’s a humorous yet heartfelt tale about finding confidence and navigating the ups and downs of adolescence.
Fantasy Series
These fantasy series will transport readers into magical worlds filled with adventure, danger, and unforgettable characters. These books offer thrilling quests and powerful lessons about courage, friendship, and the struggle between good and evil.
Harry Potter Series
Raised by his cruel aunt and uncle, Harry discovers on his 11th birthday that he is actually a wizard and is invited to attend Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Throughout the series, Harry makes lifelong friends, faces magical creatures, and uncovers dark secrets, all while battling the dark wizard Lord Voldemort, who seeks to conquer the wizarding world.
The Harry Potter Series by J.K. Rowling is known for its rich world-building, compelling characters, and themes of friendship, loyalty, courage, and the battle between good and evil. It has captivated readers of all ages and remains one of the most popular and influential series of all time.
It is quite controversial in the homeschooling community, families either love it for the stories and themes or don’t like it because of the magic.
Percy Jackson and the Olympians
On the New York Times best seller list, the Percy Jackson series is great for kids that are learning about Greek mythology. The series follows Percy Jackson, a 12-year-old boy who discovers he is a demigod, the son of Poseidon. As Percy embarks on various quests with his friends, he navigates the challenges of being part human, part god, while facing monsters, gods, and other mythical creatures from Greek mythology. Written by Rick Riordian.
The Green Ember Series
Written by a homeschooling dad, this is a well loved series for homeschoolers. Set in a world of talking animals, the series follows Heather and Picket, two young rabbits who are thrust into a world of adventure, danger, and heroism when their peaceful lives are shattered by a brutal war. As they journey through their world, they uncover secrets about their past and discover their roles in the fight for freedom against dark forces.
My 13 year old daughter has devoured every book in this series. They are so good and I highly recommend them! If you are lucky to go to a homeschool convention and meet S.D. Smith he is so sweet and will sign books and posters for your children.
The Wingfeather Saga
This fantasy series was written by another homeschool dad, Andrew Peterson! It follows the adventures of the Igiby siblings—Janner, Tink, and Leeli—who live in the mysterious world of Aerwiar. Set in a land filled with strange creatures, ancient secrets, and dark forces, the series chronicles the children’s journey to uncover their family’s hidden past and fulfill their destiny.
If your family likes the Lord of the Rings, Chronicles of Narnia and the Green Ember series they will really enjoy this fun adventure series.
The Chronicles of Narnia
The Chronicles of Narnia is a Christian allegory and beloved fantasy series by C. S. Lewis that has seven books that follows the adventures of four siblings: Peter, Susan, Edmund, and Lucy who discover a wardrobe that leads them to a magical land called Narnia. The series explores themes of good versus evil, courage, faith, and friendship.
Animal Books for 6th Graders
These books offer exciting, emotional, and heartwarming stories centered around animals, making them perfect for girls who enjoy animal-themed adventures and life lessons.
A Dog’s Way Home
This touching tale follows Bella, a dog who gets separated from her owner and embarks on a journey to find her way back home. Along the way, Bella faces challenges, forms new friendships, and learns valuable lessons about loyalty and determination. Written by W. Bruce Cameron.
The Incredible Journey
In this classic adventure story, three animals—two dogs and a cat—embark on a journey through the Canadian wilderness to reunite with their family. This tale of survival and friendship by Sheila Burnford shows the deep bond between animals and their loyalty to one another.
Mrs. Frisby and the Rats of NIMH
This story by Robert C. O’Brien follows Mrs. Frisby, a brave mouse who must save her family from the farmer’s plow. She seeks help from a group of intelligent rats who escaped a lab, learning about their past and their powerful abilities. The story explores themes of courage and the impact of human experimentation on nature.
The One and Only Ivan
Based on a true story, this novel by Katherine Applegate is told from the perspective of Ivan, a gorilla living in captivity. Ivan befriends a young elephant named Ruby and makes it his mission to provide a better life for her, ultimately leading to an inspiring and emotional story of courage and change.
Redwall
In the first novel of the Redwall series, young mice and other woodland creatures at Redwall Abbey face off against the villainous rat Cluny the Scourge. The series by Brian Jacques is filled with adventure, bravery, and heroism, making it a great read for animal lovers.
The Tale of Despereaux
A Newbery award winner, this enchanting story follows Despereaux Tilling, a brave and unconventional mouse who goes on an adventure to rescue a princess. With themes of courage, redemption, and friendship, it’s a delightful and heartwarming story by Kate DiCamillo.
Christian Book Series
We love incorporating Christian books into our homeschool and reading times. These are some favorites for our family, and we think your girls will love them too!
Circle C Adventures
This Christian historical fiction series is written by Susan K Marlow for ages 8-12. The stories are set in the late 1800s on a ranch in California and follow the adventures of Andrea “Andi” Carter, a spunky and spirited little girl growing up in the Wild West. If your daughters love horses and adventures they will devour these books.
Sheena Meyer Series
This is an 8 book Christian science fiction mystery series by L.B. Anne aimed towards girls ages 11-14. It follows the main character Sheena Meyers as she discovers she has supernatural powers and becomes involved in the world of angels. She must confront the mysterious forces threatening her world as she navigates middle school.
Millie Maven Triology
Millie Maven is a three-book, middle grade series (for ages 8-14) from award-winning authors Ted Dekker and his daughter Rachelle Dekker that is sure to inspire kids for years to come. Millie Maven, a twelve-year-old orphan who embarks on a great adventure that takes her to the distant, mysterious world of FIGS, the FarPointe Institute for Gifted Students.
If you want your children to learn to stand with great courage and conviction in these changing times, this is the series for you and them!
The Mandi Collection
This is a Christian historical fiction series for young girls that has a total of 40 books. It follows the adventures of a young girl named Mandie Shaw in the late 19th and early 20th Century in North Carolina. The series is filled with mystery, family secrets, and Christian values, as Mandie embarks on various adventures while uncovering mysteries, solving problems, and discovering her heritage. Written by by Lois Gladys Leppard.
Cooper Kids Adventures
This 8 book series by Frank Peretti follows archaeologist Jake Cooper and his teenagers, Jay and Lila, as they plunge through tangled jungles, meet “ghosts” from the past, search for missing standing stones, and battle ancient evil forces. These Indiana Jones-like adventures will keep readers on the edge of their seats while teaching biblical values! Recommended for ages 10 to 14.
The Daughters of the Faith Series
This series focuses on young girls during different historical periods and their journeys of faith. Each book centers around a different girl who faces challenges and grows spiritually. The books are educational and faith-filled. There are 9 books in the series by Wendy Lawton.
Lightkeeper Girls Series
The Lightkeeper Girls series by Irene Howat introduces readers aged 8–12 to the enjoyment of reading Christians biographies. Each book contains the stories of ten girls who grew up to be used by God in amazing ways. Readers will not only be amazed at the bravery, cleverness and faith of these girls, but will be inspired to look to the God who worked through each of them.
Free Book List Tracker for Girls
We know it can be hard to remember such a great list of books for 6th grade girls (and honestly girls of all ages) so we’ve created a FREE book tracker for you. In addition to the titles we’ve also included a place to record the date read, a quick comment space as well as the option to give each book a 1-5 heart rating.
We’ve also included some blank template pages so your student can keep a log of any additional books they have read or want to read in the future.
Grab your free copy at the bottom of this post!
Homeschool Tip: At the end of the year, remember to make a copy to keep with your homeschool records for reading or language arts lessons.
Final Thoughts
Whether your daughter is a bookworm or just beginning to find joy in reading, this list of books provide something for everyone, from timeless classics to modern favorites. Encourage her to explore new worlds, meet inspiring characters, and discover stories that will shape her imagination and growth.
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Sarah Shelton
Sarah is a wife, daughter of the King and Mama to 4 children (two homeschool graduates) She is a an eclectic, Charlotte Mason style homeschooler that has been homeschooling for over 20 years. She is still trying to find the balance between work and keeping a home and gardens. She can only do it by the Grace of God, coffee and green juice!
