Story Ideas for Upper Elementary

Grades 5-6

This page gathers the richer upper elementary selection, with stronger female protagonists, suspense stories, Eastern European tales, and broader folklore choices for older listeners.

Not One Damsel in Distress Womenfolk and Fairy Tales

Core Collections

Womenfolk and Fairy Tales

A strong collection for upper elementary, with favorites including The Forty Thieves, Clever Manka, Kate Crackernuts, Clever Grethel, The Stolen Bairn and the Sihd, and The Twelve Brothers.

Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark

Both Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark and More Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark suit students who want suspense and atmosphere.

Not One Damsel in Distress

A collection of thirteen folktales with strong female heroines. Fitcher's Bird stands out as a creepier selection and is not for the faint of heart.

Hidden Tales from Eastern Europe

Seven rarer stories from Eastern Europe that offer insight into the countries and cultures they come from.

Named Favorites

  • The Forty Thieves
  • Clever Manka
  • Kate Crackernuts
  • Clever Grethel
  • The Stolen Bairn and the Sihd
  • The Twelve Brothers

As with the other age bands, hundreds more stories are available by request for curriculum links, character traits, community, and pure listening pleasure.

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