Avast, mateys! From the latest superhero flick to Disney’s Jungle Cruise, adventure stories seem to be back in the heart of pop culture. If your kid loves a good action adventure, here are some iconic swashbuckling stories that are safe for younger readers.
Where the Wild Things Are
This picture book is perfect for the youngest of readers, and it’s a classic that many parents are likely familiar with. “I’ll eat you up, I love you so” remains one of the most powerful lines in children’s literature, and for good reason! Maurice Sendak’s story features Max, a young boy who dresses up in a wolf costume before dinner to cause a bit of mischief. This picture book is a classic, and it even inspired a live-action 2009 film!
A Bear Called Paddington
With his trademark hat, coat, and galoshes, few bears are more iconic than Paddington. Paddington Bear was created in 1958 by author Michael Bond, and brought to life by illustrator Peggy Fortnum. Paddington’s story starts with the titular bear sitting on his suitcase with a single note: “Please look after this bear. Thank you.” What follows are endearing tales about a bear, his adventures, and a family’s unconditional love for him.
The BFG
Roald Dahl is no stranger to writing adventure stories, but The BFG (short for the Big Friendly Giant) is definitely his most outstanding adventure. Young Sophie wakes up one night to discover the hand of a very large (but very friendly) giant swooping her up and taking her to Giant Country. The Big Friendly Giant explains to Sophie that while he’s a nice giant, there are plenty of not-very-nice giants ready to take over England. It’s up to Sophie and the BFG to stop giants like the Maid Masher and Bone Cruncher and save the world.
Hatchet
This chapter book is perfect for those in 4th-6th grades, but it’s not for the faint of heart! Gary Paulsen’s award-winning novel is one of the most well-known survival adventures ever written. The story follows Brian, a teenage son of divorced parents. After becoming the sole survivor of a small plane crash, Brian has to use a hatchet — a present from his mother — to stay alive in the Northern Canadian wilderness.
From the Mixed-Up Files of Mrs Basil E. Frankweiler
This book isn’t a traditional adventure, but if your child finds thrills in knowledge (and museums), they’ll love this award-winning chapter book. When 12-year-old Claudia and her little brother Jamie run away from her parents, she hides out in one of the world’s most iconic museums: the Metropolitan Museum of Art. After a mysterious statue appears in a new exhibit at the Met, Claudia and Jamie search out its former owner. They discover that there’s more to the story than their wild imaginations could’ve ever thought possible.
Percy Jackson saga
Rick Riordan’s Percy Jackson books combine Greek mythology with a modern twist. Percy, a 13-year-old with dyslexia, discovers on a field trip that his father is none other than the Greek God of the Sea, Poseidon. What follows is a tale of exploring powers, fighting legendary villains, and learning that being a true hero means more than saving the world. This series is perfect for 5th-8th grade.
From leading a band of monsters to fighting the monsters within, adventure books give kids the perfect opportunity to relate to characters doing extraordinary things in fantastic situations. They’re great ways to inspire courage, bravery and teamwork. Whether your kid loves adventure, mystery, or coming-of-age stories, there are plenty of books out there for students to discover. At Lake Forrest Prep, we promote reading across all genres. Well-read students become more compassionate adults. If you’re looking for a place where your young reader can be challenged, come visit our campus. Call 407-331-5144 to schedule your tour or fill out our inquiry form.