Fiction. Younger readers almost universally love fiction. They should be encouraged to read whatever most interests them, as almost any reading at this stage will improve writing skills and vocabularies. Still, certain works of fiction are particularly worthwhile for younger readers.
The Chronicles of Narnia
Arguably the best children's series ever, beginning with the famous The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe. A fanciful work of fiction, the series, which is laced with Christian symbolism, bears rereading by adults.
Where the Red Fern Grows
My mom read this book to me when I was little, and it is a great example of the power of words to evoke emotion. I may be branded a heretic for this, but I believe the book was better than even Old Yeller.
A Wrinkle in Time
Madeleine L'Engle's famous work which plays with ideas like a vast cosmic war between good and evil, tesseracts, space-travel, and personal coming-of-age.
The Giving Tree
I've just really never gotten over how awesomely powerful this humble little book is. If I was a tyrannical ruler with absolute power, my first decree would be that no child should be allowed to make it out of second grade without reading this timeless classic. Those interested in more by Shel Silverstein (the author) should check out Where the Sidewalk Ends, a collection of poems.
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