Movies Based On Books You Should Have Read In 4th Grade
Here is a list of all the movies based on books that you might have or should have read while in the fourth grade. Some of these films are based on classic literature like James and the Giant Peach and How to Eat Fried Worms, while others, such as Shiloh, are successful movies adapted from fairly new books. All of these films and stories deal with subjects and themes appropriate for 9-10 year old audiences, and many feature young protagonists dealing with elementary school, whether in ordinary or extraordinary circumstances. Use this list to take a trip down memory lane to junior high or middle school or to look for movies you can use as a CliffsNotes substitute (we've all been there).
What are the best 4th grade books that were made into movies? Vote up your favorite fourth grade book adaptations, and vote down the movies that didn't do justice to the source material. Don't see a memorable movie based on a book you were assigned in 4th grade? Feel free to add it to the list.
- 1Mara Wilson, Danny DeVito, Rhea Perlman
- Released: 1996
- Directed by: Danny DeVito
The 1996 film adaptation of Roald Dahl's beloved children's novel, Matilda, captures the whimsical spirit of the book while bringing the characters to life onscreen. Directed by Danny DeVito, who also stars as the main character's father, the movie stays true to the original story of a gifted young girl who gains telekinetic powers, navigates an oppressive family, and confronts her tyrannical principal. It remains a favorite among fans of Dahl's works, showcasing his signature dark humor and clever wit.
- 2Gene Wilder, Jack Albertson, Peter Ostrum
- Released: 1971
- Directed by: Mel Stuart
The 1971 classic film, Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory, starring Gene Wilder, brings Roald Dahl's Charlie and the Chocolate Factory to life in a colorful and fantastical manner. Though Dahl was initially displeased with the adaptation (largely due to the focus on Wonka rather than Charlie) and he disowned the film before its release, it has since become a beloved staple of family-friendly cinema. With memorable musical numbers and eccentric performances, this whimsical film continues to enchant viewers and hold nostalgia for generations.
- 3Debbie Reynolds, Paul Lynde, Henry Gibson
- Released: 1973
- Directed by: Iwao Takamoto
The 1973 animated adaptation of E.B. White's classic children's novel, Charlotte's Web, is a heartwarming tale about the bond between a pig named Wilbur and a clever spider named Charlotte. With its hand-drawn animation and charming musical numbers, the film complements the book's imaginative storytelling and reinforces the themes of friendship, loyalty, and selflessness found in the original work. It remains a fondly remembered adaptation that continues to introduce young audiences to the magic of White's timeless story.
- 4Robin Williams, Bonnie Hunt, Kirsten Dunst
- Released: 1995
- Directed by: Joe Johnston
Jumanji, the 1995 film adaptation of Chris Van Allsburg's 1981 picture book of the same name, takes the basic premise of a magical board game that brings jungle adventures to life and expands on it for a thrilling and high-stakes movie. Starring Robin Williams as a man who has been trapped inside the game for decades, the film weaves a heartwarming story of friendship, family, and redemption alongside its action-packed scenes. It remains a popular family film and even led to a successful continuation of the story in the 2017 sequel, Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle.
- 5Julia Roberts, Dakota Fanning, Steve Buscemi
- Released: 2006
- Directed by: Gary Winick
The 2006 live-action adaptation of E.B. White's Charlotte's Web, starring Dakota Fanning and featuring the voices of Julia Roberts, Oprah Winfrey, and Steve Buscemi, offers a new take on the beloved children's novel. The film brings the characters to life with a mix of real animals, puppetry, and CGI animation, staying true to the heartwarming and profound themes of friendship, sacrifice, and finding one's place in the world. This version remains a faithful and poignant retelling of the classic tale.
- 6Paul Terry, Joanna Lumley, Miriam Margolyes
- Released: 1996
- Directed by: Henry Selick
The 1996 film adaptation of Roald Dahl's James and the Giant Peach combines live-action with stop-motion animation to create a visually stunning and inventive rendition of the fantastical tale. Directed by Henry Selick and with music by Randy Newman, the movie captures the eccentricity of Dahl's characters while adding a layer of whimsy and charm that appeals to both children and adults. Although some aspects of the original story have been altered, the adaptation remains true to the overall spirit and imagination of Dahl's classic novel.
