The Katharine the Almost Great series is a good beginning chapter book for kids.  There are quite a few different things going on that make the story interesting.  First, there’s the mystery of their beloved teacher becoming Miss Crankypants; second, it’s almost Christmas and quite a few school events happening; third, Crockett, Katherine’s cousin has a hilarious sense of humor and quite a few great jokes; plus, his absent father cannot make it for Christmas and that causes some problems; and lastly, Katharine and classmates really show the spirit of Christmas for their teacher.  This is a good story that should energize kids and make them feel good and possible think that this is something they would like to do.