8th grade books about Characters in Literature

3 books commonly assigned to 8th grade students explore characters in literature— every title’s grade range covers 8th grade, so each is grade-appropriate by curriculum placement. Each links to its reading level, themes, and the curricula that cite it.

What this list holds: All 3 titles are cited by at least one US curriculum or award list for 8th grade, first published between 1990 and 2004. The most widely cited at this grade is Peter and the Starcatchers by Dave Barry (2 lists). Themes these books most often share besides characters in literature: magic (2).

3 8th grade books about characters in literature

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  1. Peter and the Starcatchers

    Dave Barry

    Cited in 2 curricula across 2 states, taught from grade 3 to 8. Also covers humorous stories, magic and pirates.

  2. And the Dish Ran Away with the Spoon

    Janet Stevens

    Cited in 1 curriculum, taught from grade 3 to 8. Also covers nursery rhymes and animals.

  3. The Wishing Spell

    Chris Colfer

    Cited in 1 curriculum, taught from grade 3 to 8. Also covers fairy tales, magic, brothers and sisters.

Characters in Literature books at other grades

3rd grade · 4th grade · 5th grade · 6th grade · 7th grade

Other 8th grade themes

Family · Friendship · Identity · Courage · Survival · History · Mystery and Detective Stories · Schools

← Full 8th grade reading list · All characters in literaturebooks →

Frequently asked questions

What characters in literature books are good for 8th grade students?

3 books exploring characters in literature have a grade range that covers 8th grade and are assigned across US-school curricula — Common Core exemplars, AP, IB, Cambridge, and state ELA standards. Each title on this page links to its full curriculum citations and reading level.

Are these characters in literature books grade-appropriate for 8th grade?

Every title's grade range covers 8th grade, so each is age-appropriate by curriculum placement. Check each book's themes and content notes before assigning.

How many characters in literature books are on the 8th grade list?

This page lists 3 8th grade titles about characters in literature, ordered by how many US curricula cite each one for this grade (ties alphabetical). The list expands as more curriculum references are verified.

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