Suggested reading for Years 5 & 6: Summer term

Parallel stories – one about a family of miniature people and one about greed, activism and the environment – combine in this captivating story of love, loss, and legacy. 

Hugely entertaining and packed full of quirky, fascinating and sometimes revolting animal facts, this non-fiction book is sure to be a big hit with junior readers. 

Jakub usually looks after his mum – and now he’s caring for an injured otter. A gentle, compelling read. 

This funny and touching coming-of-age story reflects the experiences of many youngsters making the transition to secondary school or experiencing changes in the family.

In 2032, Polly dives into the world of the submerged town Syndercombe in 1952, where Nellie has set herself a swimming challenge she can only complete with the help of two good friends. Another superb story from the Queen of Historical Fiction.

A touching, light-hearted book about finding confidence and friendship.

A verse novel telling the story of Nate’s first year at secondary school. The sequel to The Final Year. 

An exciting magical mystery and adventure story about the Kuri, legendary wildcat of Linger Island. 

Set in a utopian landscape and addressing big questions about humanity’s relationship with the environment, this is a gripping and refreshingly original story of survival against the odds. 

Hope’s family cafe desperately needs money, but can dressing up as a giant ice cream really save it? Relatable, funny and relevant for all those moving up to secondary school. 

When Rafa swaps places with a film star, he embarks on an extraordinary adventure, which takes him all the way to Hollywood on a private jet. Bursting with humour, this larger-than-life tale is a compelling read. 

Get to grips with some of the world’s most puzzling philosophical questions with this thought-provoking and humorous illustrated book. 

Finn just wants to survive Year 7 but faces cringe and embarrassment at every turn. Follow his hilarious year in this brilliantly funny and relatable illustrated diary format book. 

Save the planet and live forever. Just upload your personality into a Pleeka, a replica human body which doesn’t consume food or produce waste. But at what cost? This futuristic, dystopian thriller will have readers on the edge of their seats. 

A group of friends follow a trail of graffiti clues across West London to solve a murder mystery that unfolds on the way to Notting Hill Carnival. Brilliantly energetic and gripping.

Did Dan and Florence really see a body in a car? And where is it now? An atmospheric, tense murder mystery set in a hot summer.