Secondhand Chapter Book (Age 8-12) Bargain Book Box SP2263

Secondhand Chapter Book (Age 8-12) Bargain Book Box

This selection of twenty-six books covers a wide range of genres for young readers, from classic adventures to modern humor. It features a strong representation of Enid Blyton’s popular series alongside contemporary hits by authors such as Andy Griffiths, Jeff Kinney, and Morris Gleitzman. The box includes animal stories, fantasy novels, and school-based comedies, offering plenty of variety for independent readers. Each book is secondhand and may show signs of wear.

1. Five Run Away Together by Enid Blyton The Famous Five return to Kirrin Island only to discover that their usual hideout has been compromised by intruders. George is determined to protect her territory, leading the group into a mystery involving smugglers and hidden trunks. The story highlights the independence of the children as they camp out and fend for themselves.

2. Five Go Adventuring Again by Enid Blyton In this second installment of the series, the children remain at Kirrin Cottage during the Christmas holidays where they encounter a tutor they dislike. They discover a secret map and a subterranean passage, sparking a search for lost thieves. The narrative balances the cozy winter atmosphere with the tension of an unfolding mystery.

3. Five Go Off in a Caravan by Enid Blyton The group embarks on a holiday in two horse-drawn caravans, hoping for a peaceful break from their usual excitement. However, they soon stumble upon a circus troupe and a ruined castle that holds strange secrets underground. It is a tale of travel and exploration that pits the children against a set of clever criminals.

4. Five on a Treasure Island by Enid Blyton This is the very first book in the Famous Five series, introducing Julian, Dick, Anne, George, and Timmy the dog. The plot centers on a shipwreck off the coast of Kirrin Island and the search for a lost gold supply. It establishes the bonds of friendship and the adventurous spirit that define the subsequent twenty novels.

5. Charlie and the Great Glass Elevator by Roald Dahl Picking up immediately after the events of the Chocolate Factory, this sequel sees Charlie and Wonka launched into outer space. They encounter hostile alien species known as Vermicious Knids before returning to the factory to experiment with de-aging formulas. The story is marked by Dahl’s signature blend of chaotic humor and imaginative wordplay.

6. Wolves of the Beyond: Lone Wolf by Kathryn Lasky Faolan is a wolf pup born with a twisted paw, a defect that leads to him being abandoned by his pack to die. He survives against the odds and seeks to rejoin wolf society, navigating the complex hierarchies of the clans. This fantasy novel explores themes of survival, prejudice, and the struggle to find belonging in a harsh wilderness.

7. Once by Morris Gleitzman Set in Poland during the Second World War, this novel is told through the innocent eyes of a young Jewish boy named Felix. He escapes an orphanage to find his parents, unaware of the full horror of the Nazi occupation unfolding around him. It is a poignant and heartbreaking story that balances the tragedy of history with a child’s enduring hope.

8. Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Third Wheel by Jeff Kinney Greg Heffley navigates the social awkwardness of middle school as a Valentine’s Day dance approaches. He scrambles to find a date, eventually teaming up with Rowley, but the night does not go as planned. The book uses its trademark diary format and cartoons to capture the humor and anxiety of early adolescence and school dances.

9. The 13-Storey Treehouse by Andy Griffiths Andy and Terry live in a fantastical treehouse equipped with a bowling alley, a tank of man-eating sharks, and a marshmallow machine. As they attempt to write a book, they are distracted by flying cats, sea monsters, and giant gorillas. This illustrated novel is a fast-paced celebration of creativity and absurdity, designed to engage reluctant readers.

10. Clementine Rose and the Pet Day Disaster by Jacqueline Harvey Clementine Rose is excited to bring her pet teacup pig, Lavender, to school for the upcoming Pet Day. However, the arrival of a strict new teacher and some unruly animals threatens to turn the event into chaos. The story focuses on school life and friendship, offering a gentle and humorous narrative for younger readers.

11. Return to the Secret Garden by Holly Webb Inspired by the Frances Hodgson Burnett classic, this sequel follows a young girl named Emmie who is evacuated to Misselthwaite Manor during World War II. She discovers the journals of the original characters and the now-neglected garden. The book bridges two time periods, dealing with the displacement of war and the healing power of nature.

12. Madame Pamplemousse and the Enchanted Sweet Shop by Rupert Kingfisher Madeleine is forced to work in her uncle’s dreadful restaurant until she discovers a magical shop run by the mysterious Madame Pamplemousse. The sweets sold there have extraordinary effects, leading to a culinary adventure involving time travel and ancient secrets. It is a whimsical modern fairy tale that celebrates the magic of food and cooking.

13. The One and Only Ivan by Katherine Applegate Based on a true story, this novel is narrated by Ivan, a gorilla who has spent decades in a glass enclosure at a shopping mall. When a baby elephant arrives, Ivan is moved to question his captivity and protect his new friend. The book is a moving reflection on animal welfare, art, and the meaning of freedom.

14. Nicola Berry and the Shocking Trouble on the Planet of Shobble by Liane Moriarty In this science fiction adventure, Nicola Berry and her friends travel to a planet where the inhabitants are obsessed with strawberries and chocolate. They must navigate a strange society to save the Earth from an alien threat. The story combines humor with themes of environmentalism and the importance of standing up for what is right.

15. Dumbo: Circus of Dreams by Calliope Glass This novelization expands on the story of the live-action film, following the flying elephant and the humans who care for him. It explores the struggling Medici Bros. Circus and the corporate greed that threatens to exploit Dumbo’s unique talent. The narrative focuses on family bonds and the importance of embracing one's differences in a judgmental world.

16. Five Go To Smuggler's Top by Enid Blyton The Famous Five are sent to stay at a friend's house on a hilltop surrounded by dangerous marshes. They soon uncover a network of secret tunnels and signal lights used by a smuggling ring. The atmospheric setting and the constant threat of the mist make this one of the more suspenseful entries in the series.

17. The Enchanted Wood by Enid Blyton Jo, Bessie, and Fanny move to the country and discover the Magic Faraway Tree, which is home to magical creatures like Moon-Face and Silky the fairy. By climbing the tree, they can visit strange and changing lands at the top. It is a classic fantasy story that introduces a world of limitless imagination and whimsical danger.

18. The Tinklers Three: Blame it on the Boo-gie by M.C. Badger The Tinkler siblings live a life without rules while their parents are away, leading to a series of bizarre and humorous situations. In this installment, a simple dance competition turns into a chaotic event involving a ghost. The book relies on slapstick humor and the relatable fantasy of children living with total independence.

19. Tilly and the Time Machine by Adrian Edmondson Tilly’s father builds a time machine in their shed, but gets stuck in the past, leaving Tilly to rescue him. She travels through various historical eras, including the Battle of Trafalgar and the Victorian age, to bring him home. The story mixes history with comedy and a touching father-daughter relationship.

20. The House with a Clock in Its Walls by John Bellairs Lewis Barnavelt goes to live with his uncle in a creaky old house that contains a hidden clock ticking down to doomsday. He discovers that his uncle is a wizard and that the house was previously owned by a dark sorcerer. This gothic mystery blends genuine scares with magic, creating a suspenseful atmosphere for middle-grade readers.

21. Creepers: Stage Fright! by Edgar J. Hyde Part of a horror series for young readers, this book centers on a school play that goes terribly wrong. Strange accidents and ghostly occurrences begin to plague the production, suggesting a supernatural interference. It delivers mild chills and suspense, catering to children who enjoy scary stories without extreme graphic content.

22. Clementine Rose and the Perfect Present by Jacqueline Harvey Clementine Rose is trying to find the best gift for her mother, but her good intentions often lead to trouble. The story involves a wedding, a misunderstanding, and the usual antics of her pet pig. It is a heartwarming tale about family celebrations and the idea that the thought behind a gift matters more than the cost.

23. Northwind by Gary Paulsen A young boy named Leif is forced to flee north in a canoe to escape a deadly plague that has destroyed his community. He must survive the brutal elements of the coastline and the open ocean, relying only on his wits and endurance. The novel is a stark survivalist tale that meditates on life, death, and the power of nature.

24. Storm Cat by Holly Webb This animal story follows a stray cat attempting to find shelter and safety during a harsh winter storm. A young girl wants to help the cat, but faces resistance from her family about taking in a pet. The narrative focuses on the bond between humans and animals, providing a gentle emotional arc suitable for younger readers.

25. High School Musical: Poetry in Motion by Alice Alfonsi Based on the popular Disney franchise, this story follows Troy and Gabriella as they are assigned a poetry project. The narrative explores their relationship and the dynamics of East High outside the events of the movies. It appeals to fans of the series, offering more time with the characters and themes of self-expression.

26. Secret Seven by Enid Blyton This volume introduces a secret society of seven children who hold meetings in a shed and solve local mysteries. Led by Peter, the group uses passwords and badges to maintain their exclusivity while investigating suspicious activities. It is a foundational mystery story that emphasizes teamwork and the observant nature of children.