Step Into Reading Level 3 Books for Growing Readers

by Keith Rice

Image credit: FatCamera/Getty Images

With their easy-to-follow plots and longer, more engaging stories, Step Into Reading Level 3 books are great way to continue to encourage your growing reader and their love of books. These books will not only inspire and engage your developing young reader, but also continue to challenge them and provide a great sense of accomplishment and independence. Whether it’s an inspiring biography, fun slice of history, or a rousing adventure, Level 3 books offer something for every child.

  • Michelle Obama

    by Shana Corey, illustrated by James Bernardin

    Available from:

    This Level 3 biography chronicles the life of former First Lady Michelle Obama and shows children that Michelle Obama was once a kid just like them. From her childhood on Chicago’s South Side to high school and college, and eventually the White House, Michelle Obama has had an extraordinary life that is sure to inspire your child to be all that they can be.

    Also available from:
  • Dream March

    by Vaunda Micheaux Nelson, illustrated by Sally Wern Comport

    Available from:

    Dream March is an ideal introduction to one of the watershed moments in the civil rights movement. This inspiring biography follows Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. through the historic March on Washington during the summer of 1963. With its moving story and illustrations, Dream March will help young readers understand the impact and importance of one of the 20th century’s most celebrated figures and a moment that moved America that much closer to change.

    Also available from:
  • Miguel’s Music (Disney/Pixar Coco)

    by Liz Rivera, illustrated by The Disney Storybook Art Team

    Available from:

    Based on the hit Disney/Pixar film, Coco, Miguel’s Music tells the story of a young boy named Miguel who dreams of becoming a world-famous musician. However, his family bans all music from their home. When Miguel’s desire to learn music sets him on an extraordinary adventure in the colorful Land of the Dead, he’ll discover that there is far more to his family – and his own legacy – than he could have ever imagined.

    Also available from:
  • Alexander Hamilton: From Orphan to Founding Father

    by Monica Kulling, illustrated by Valerio Fabbretti

    Available from:

    The award-winning Broadway musical Hamilton captured the pop culture zeitgeist in a way few musicals have. It also shone a much-deserved spotlight on one of the most intriguing – and oft-overlooked – Founding Fathers: Alexander Hamilton. This Level 3 reader is a perfect introduction to one of early American history’s most fascinating and impactful figures.

    Also available from:
  • The Bravest Dog Ever

    by Natalie Standiford, illustrated by Donald Cook

    Available from:

    The Bravest Dog recounts the thrilling true story of Balto, a sled dog who takes on the race of his life to save the children of Nome, Alaska. Balto was leading the quiet life of a lead sled dog when his master got word that children of Nome were deathly sick with diptheria. With the only cure 650 miles away and a dangerous blizzard rolling in, Balto and his master set off on an exhilarating adventure to save the children.

    Also available from:
  • Quest for the Heart (Disney Moana)

    by RH Disney

    Available from:

    Quest for the Heart adapts Disney’s Moana for Level 3 readers. Set in the South Pacific world of the film, Quest for the Heart chronicles the adventures of Moana, a young island girl and born navigator who sets off on a daring adventure with demi-god Maui to save her people from destruction. It’s an engaging and action-packed tale perfect for growing readers.

    Also available from:
  • Eliza Hamilton: Founding Mother

    by Monica Kulling, illustrated by Valerio Fabbretti

    Available from:

    This biography reader is about the unsung historical figure and Founding Mother Elizabeth Schuyler Hamilton. She was so much more than just Alexander Hamilton’s wife. A spirited girl, she grew up to be a strong woman with a big heart and an astounding strength of character. She rescued many children in need during her life and established New York City’s first orphanage – a place that is still helping children in need to this day.

    Also available from:
  • Frederick Douglass

    by Frank Murphy, illustrated by Nicole Tadgell

    Available from:

    Frederick Douglass was a keystone figure in the abolitionist movement, and this reader shows how he impacted generations of people fighting for civil rights in America. At a young age, he taught himself to read, and soon realized that reading and language were a source of power as well as freedom. His profound words about injustice and equality, and his activism, will resonate with kids who are interested in our activist culture today.

    Also available from:
  • My Journey to the Stars

    by Scott Kelly, illustrated by André Ceolin

    Available from:

    This is the story of astronaut Scott Kelly, an ordinary boy who grew up to do extraordinary things. Scott wasn’t sure what he wanted to be when he grew up. He struggled in school and often got in trouble with his twin brother, Mark. Then one day Scott discovered a book about test pilots and astronauts that set him on a path from becoming a pilot to an astronaut to the commander of the International Space Station and spending nearly a year in space!

    Also available from:
  • Brave Clara Barton

    by Frank Murphy, illustrated by Sarah Green

    Available from:

    Young readers will be inspired by the moving story of Clara Barton, a role model who outgrew her childhood shyness to become the fearless Angel of the Battlefield! Clara fought her way to work as a nurse on the front lines of the Civil War, and then went on to create the American Red Cross. Clara’s story is a testament to the strength and grit of women. Sarah Green’s lovely and delicate illustrations render Clara’s life in an appropriate and approachable way for young readers.

    Also available from: