8 Brilliant Books That Get Children Off Screens and Into Stories
One of the things I hear most often from parents I speak to is this: “I just can’t get my child to read for pleasure…they’re always on a device.”
The truth is, most students do enjoy reading once they find the right book. The challenge for parents is working out which stories will both spark their child’s interest and support their learning at this stage in school.
Great books that help KS3 students build lasting reading habits and prepare for GCSE success.
In KS3 (Years 7–9), developing a regular reading habit is essential.
The older a child gets, the harder it becomes to build those habits. And when GCSEs arrive, the difference is stark: students who read regularly for pleasure are far better prepared for the range of complex texts they’ll face, and their minds are sharper for the analytic tasks examiners demand.
That’s why I’ve pulled together a quick round-up of books I recommend for KS3 students. Each has its own strengths, and I’ve linked to my full review of each one so you can find out more.
8 Brilliant KS3 Books to Try:
1. The Book Thief by Markus Zusak
A powerful, challenging story set in World War II. It stretches more confident readers and leaves a lasting impact.
👉 Read my full review of The Book Thief
2. A Kind of Spark by Elle McNicoll
An uplifting, inspiring read about courage and standing up for what’s right, told through the voice of a neurodivergent narrator.
👉 Full review: A Kind of Spark
3. Percy Jackson and the Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan
Fast-paced, funny and full of adventure, which is perfect for reluctant readers who need action and humour to hook them in.
👉 Full review: Percy Jackson
4. Wonder by R.J. Palacio
A modern classic that builds empathy and encourages kindness. Accessible but deeply moving.
👉 Full review: Wonder
5. The Boy at the Back of the Class by Onjali Q. Raúf
A heartfelt story that introduces children to themes of kindness, inclusion and understanding others’ perspectives.
👉 Full review: The Boy at the Back of the Class
6. Crater Lake by Jennifer Killick
Funny, creepy and exciting all at once, so it’s great for students who like a spooky twist without going full horror.
7. The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins
Dramatic, thrilling and thought-provoking. Ideal for older KS3 students ready for bigger themes and higher stakes. One of my daughter’s absolute faves!
👉 Full review: The Hunger Games
8. Ghost Boys by Jewell Parker Rhodes
A moving, powerful book that raises important questions about justice and society — excellent for developing empathy and critical thinking.
Final Thoughts
Helping your child find the right book in KS3 can make all the difference. Once they connect with a story, they’re far more likely to read regularly, and that daily reading habit will be one of the best ways to prepare them for the challenges of GCSE English.
If you’d like more personalised support - whether it’s boosting reading confidence, improving comprehension, or building stronger writing skills - I’d be happy to help. I offer one-to-one English tutoring both online and in person across Stockport, South Manchester and surrounding areas.