Recommended Book for 4th Grader

[Jim Flanagan]

No: HPFGUIDX 2028

Like millions of other kids this past summer, my grandkids have been 
reading Harry Potter.  Nick, who is going into 4th grade was a 
special surprise.  He never showed much interest in reading or 
academics in general, but he devoured all four books this summer, 
with some help from his mother and Jim Dale.

I'm wondering what would be an appropriate book to get him for his 
9th birthday. I'm considering either The Hobbit, which I read in high 
school, or Narina, which I have not read.  Can anyone tell me what 
would be more appropriate?  What other books are kids in his peer 
group reading now (after HP)?

Thanks
Jim Flanagan