Getting kids to love reading isn’t just about finding any book that’s found in the “children’s section” of the library, it’s about finding the stories that grow and change alongside them. These 5 series are perfect for young readers and are a delight for us, the parents to read along with the kiddos.
#5 A Series of Unfortunate Events by Lemony Snicket
Darkly funny and endlessly inventive, this series is unlike anything else for kids. The Baudelaire orphans’ misadventures are filled with clever wordplay, bizarre characters, and witty narration that keeps readers hooked. Kids will love the absurd twists, and adults will appreciate the sly humor tucked into every page. It’s a series that proves reading can be both quirky and addictive.
#4 Percy Jackson and the Olympians by Rick Riordan
With humor, heart, and plenty of action, Percy Jackson has become a go-to series for getting kids hooked on reading. Riordan weaves Greek mythology into a modern adventure that feels fast-paced and fresh. Young readers love Percy’s sarcasm and the nonstop excitement, while adults can appreciate the clever way the books explore friendship, loyalty, and courage. If you’re looking for a series that’s as educational as it is entertaining, this one checks all the boxes.
#3 The Inheritance Cycle by Christopher Paolini
Beginning with Eragon, this series is a classic entry point for kids who are ready for a deeper dive into epic fantasy. With dragons, magic, and a richly built world, it scratches the same itch as Tolkien, in a way that’s accessible to younger readers. Adults will be surprised by the scope of the story, and kids will be swept up by the adventure. It’s a perfect bridge into more complex fantasy series. Your kids will be asking for their own dragon to ride next holiday season.
#2 Harry Potter by J.K. Rowling
The ultimate gateway into reading, Harry Potter has captivated kids and adults alike for decades. The magical world of Hogwarts draws in young readers with wonder and adventure, while adults will rediscover deeper themes of friendship, courage, and loss on every reread. Few series can spark a love of books quite like this one. It is rare to find a book that has changed so many lives, Harry has a special spot in so many of our hearts.
#1 Fablehaven and Dragonwatch by Brandon Mull
If you’re looking for a series packed with magic, creatures, and non-stop adventure, Brandon Mull’s Fablehaven delivers in every chapter. This is a story that I can’t help but reread again and again. The story follows Kendra and Seth, siblings who stumble upon their grandparents’ secret role as caretakers of a mystical preserve for magical beings. From fairies and trolls to demons and dragons, the series mixes lighthearted humor with real stakes that will keep young readers glued to the page.
The sequel series, Dragonwatch, picks up right where Fablehaven leaves off, raising the tension and expanding the world even further. These books are perfect for kids who crave fast-paced storytelling, imaginative settings, and the thrill of “what magical creature will show up next?” Parents will also enjoy the way Mull blends whimsy with moral choices and courage, making the books fun for family reading.
