Helping boys fall in love with reading starts with the right books. Stories that spark curiosity. Characters that feel familiar. Adventures that feel fun instead of forced. This list of 10 books was curated to inspire boys to read for fun. From playful picture books to powerful middle-grade stories, each title offers something different while keeping reading engaging, affirming, and exciting.
Little Black Boy: Oh, the Things You Will Do!
By Kirby Howell-Baptiste and Larry C. Fields III
A hopeful picture book celebrating the joy, brilliance, and limitless potential of little Black boys.
Ages 4–8
Taking the Long Way Home
By Jake Hope
A walk home becomes an imaginative adventure where everyday sights turn extraordinary through creativity and play.
Ages 4–8
The Most Boring Book Ever
By Brandon Sanderson
A hilarious contradiction of a book that claims to be boring while delivering nonstop adventure. Perfect for reluctant readers.
Ages 4–8
Bearsuit Turtle Makes a Friend
By Bob Shea
A laugh-out-loud story about friendship, pretending, and finding connection even when you feel a little different.
Ages 4–8
Bats!: Mysterious and Misunderstood Mammals
By Lydia Lukidis
An engaging nonfiction title that introduces young readers to bats while challenging myths and highlighting conservation.
Ages 6–9
Stronger Than
By Nikki Grimes and Stacy Wells
A moving story about a boy who finds strength through learning his family’s history and facing hard truths with love.
Ages 6–9
Come Catch a Dream
By Brittany J. Thurman
A gentle and empowering story about perseverance, fear, and trying again even after falling.
Ages 4-8
Basketball: The Story of the All-American Game
By Kadir Nelson
A visually stunning history of basketball that connects sports, culture, and storytelling.
Ages 9–12
Is There a Boy Like Me?
By Kern Carter
A powerful middle-grade novel exploring identity, vulnerability, and what it really means to be a boy.
Ages 9–12
The Rhythm of Time
By Questlove and S.A. Cosby
A fast-paced time-travel adventure that blends music, friendship, and heart.
Ages 9–12
At Barbershop Books, we believe reading should feel fun, familiar, and meaningful. These books help boys see themselves as readers and remind them that stories can entertain, challenge, and inspire all at once.
