Middle grade books are for in-between readers (roughly the ages of 8 to 12 or 14), but that doesn't mean they're immature or unsophisticated. Some of these books tell beautiful, heartrending stories. Others are meant to make kids laugh and have fun (looking at you, Dog Man). Either way, these books will captivate children and make them into lifelong readers.
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Beverly, Right Here
By Kate DiCamillo
Kate DiCamillo is a real hit maker. This new book is no exception. She’s legendary. Possibly eternal. We’ve been reading her forever. We’ll keep reading her.
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Charlie Thorne and the Last Equation
By Stuart Gibbs
From New York Times bestselling author Stuart Gibbs comes the first novel in a thrilling new series about the world’s youngest and smartest genius who’s forced to use her unbelievable code-breaking skills to outsmart Einstein. For the precocious child in your life, wise and adventurous beyond their years.
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Dog Man: Fetch-22
By Dav Pilkey
Come on, it’s the new Dog Man. Do we need to say more? These adventures are so beautiful, so gentle, so kind. Literally every middle grade reader in your life loves Dog Man, surely.
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Guts
By Raina Telgemeier
If you or the youngster in your life is a fan of Telgemeier’s previous work (Babysitter’s Club, Drama, Smile, etc), this new graphic novel will be no exception.
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Lalani of the Distant Sea
By Erin Entrada Kelly
From the award winning author of Hello, Universe comes a fable full of mystery and wonder. A marriage of Cinderella and Moana, this book is enchanting and triumphant reminder to be good to the people you love and stay true to yourself. A quick read and a great gift for the dreamer or explorer in your life.
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Look Both Ways
By Jason Reynolds
Ten stories, one per block, of what happens after the school bell rings. What happens on a walk home? Funny, engaging, and intense while remaining relatable.
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The Very, Very Far North
By Dan Bar-El, Illustrated by Kelly Pousette
An inquisitive polar bear named Duane befriends an array of animals as he discovers where he belongs in this charming classic-in-the making that’s reminiscent of Winnie the Pooh.
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White Bird
By R.J. Palacio
Inspired by her blockbuster phenomenon Wonder, R.J. Palacio makes her graphic novel debut with an unforgettable story of the power of kindness and unrelenting courage in a time of war.
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