Middle-Grade Readers (Ages 8-12)

Kirkus Award Finalist & Schneider Family Book Award Winner Jason Reynolds explores family love and bravery in this multigenerational novel.

Comic and satirical, Chloe Cho navigates being a model-minority in a non-diverse town while trying to connect with her Korean heritage.

In "Playing the Cards You're Dealt," Varian Johnson tackles toxic masculinity and family legacy as a boy navigates a spades tournament and hidden family secrets.

A gripping historical fiction novel about a deaf woman teaching a young girl to communicate, uncovering dark secrets in the process.

Bryan faces tough choices as he navigates middle school drama and risky behavior with his new friend. Will he stay true to himself?

Two girls, raised by single gay dads, are forced to be friends at summer camp. A quirky and heartwarming story told through emails and letters.

Ibi Zoboi's middle-grade debut follows Ebony-Grace as she navigates Harlem, a world of sci-fi parallels, in the summer of 1984.

A timely novel about speaking up and coming out as parents lobby to ban a beloved book from school, by bestselling author David Levithan.

A young woman with a hidden past embarks on a dangerous expedition to chart the southern seas, facing dragons and riches beyond imagination. A gripping adventure of identity and integrity.

A farm-working girl dreams of joining a circus, but when she meets activists fighting for workers' rights, she must decide where her voice belongs.

A heartwarming novel for middle schoolers by award-winning author Renée Watson, as Amara explores family and heritage in Harlem, New York City.

A touching novel by Phil Bildner about a middle-schooler inspired by openly gay baseball player Glenn Burke, learning to be true to himself amidst challenges.

Middle-grade debut fantasy adventure set in a global magic school in the sky. First Conjuror faces mistrust and danger as she tries to clear her name and find her missing mentor.

Discover the touching and funny journey of Laura as she explores her family's history and learns valuable lessons about acceptance and self-discovery.

A gripping middle grade horror novel by Ellen Oh. When Harper's brother starts acting oddly in their new haunted house, she must uncover the dark secrets within.

Amie Kaufman's electrifying series follows siblings with elemental powers navigating a divided world. Adventure, friendship, and loyalty await at Ulfar Academy.

Anne Ursu's novel tells the story of twins Iris and Lark, whose bond is tested when they are separated in fifth grade. A tale of love, loss, and the power of sisterhood.

Debut middle grade novel about a girl named Shayla questioning her identity and standing up for what's right amidst changing rules and racial tensions.

Prairie Lotus is a poignant and humorous novel about a determined half-Asian girl facing prejudice in 1880s America while pursuing her dreams.

A human girl and her monster friend, Pebble, navigate the wacky world together in this graphic novel celebrating friendship and learning about differences.

Join Milo on an exciting journey to the Lands Beyond in this beloved classic with witty wordplay and charming illustrations. Life is far from dull in The Phantom Tollbooth!

Heartwarming conclusion to Merci Suárez's story filled with humor, cultural exploration, and new friendships. A fabulous finale to a beloved trilogy.

Hilarious stories by top middle grade authors feature kids with minor superpowers discovering their unique abilities and using them to make a difference.

Explore the world above and below with stunning illustrations and engaging text in this two-in-one book about stars, caves, and the planet.