Wrapping up the year… best books for middle grades
I always say this but I can’t believe it’s the end of another year. How? Especially since so many of the days seemed so very, very long. Trying to remember what I did yesterday is painful, but I’m going to attempt to recap the best books I’ve read in 2014.
Best books for Middle Grade/ Young Adult
The Shadow Throne by Jennifer A. Nielsen
The final book in a trilogy that captivated not only my whole class, but me. A book I’ve recommended countless times. The main character is one that everyone can identify with in some way. The action is gripping as Sage/Jaron shows readers what being courageous really means.
The Shadow Throne: Book 3 of The Ascendance Trilogy at Amazon.com
The Shadow Throne: Book 3 of The Ascendance Trilogy at Amazon.ca
Midnights by Rainbow Rowell
I should be honest and tell you that this author could write a to-do list on a paper towel and I would love it. There is something about every one of her books that grabs me so strongly, I have to remind myself that, she doesn’t actually know me, but somehow, she gets me. And then I remind myself that she doesn’t actually write her books just for me. Elenor and Park is in our elementary library but I think the subject matter is above grade six. However, this is one of those reads that would delight an early middle school reader as much as it did me. It’s a beautiful and sweet short story.
It’s a Yuletide Miracle, Charlie Brown by Stephanie Perkins
A new author for me that I discovered because she edited the collection of short holiday stories in which Midnight was the first. Aimed at teens and up, it was just absolutely delightful to read.
My True Love Gave to Me: Twelve Holiday Stories at Amazon.com
My True Love Gave to Me: Twelve Holiday Stories at Amazon,ca
Will Grayson, Will Grayson by John Green
I can’t read Fault in Our Stars. I know my limits, I read within them. However, I’ve read just about everything else he’s published. This one is my favourite by him. It’s an excellent teen read that speaks to acceptance, diversity, adversity, and the amazing relationships that can stem from being in the same place at the same time.
Will Grayson, Will Grayson at Amazon.com
Will Grayson, Will Grayson at Amazon.ca
Are you there God, it’s me, Margaret by Judy Blume
I re read this for the first time in many, many years. I wanted to read it with my daughter and I was so pleased she enjoyed it as much as I did, both then and now. If there was a “what’s it like to become a teenage girl” book award, this would be it.
Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret at Amazon.com
Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret at Amazon.ca
Hook’s Revenge by Heidi Schulz
This is a fun book with quirky characters that made the students laugh. Determined to avenge her father’s death, Jocelyn sets out on an adventure that teaches her as much about herself as it does about her past.
Hook’s Revenge, Book 1 at Amazon.com
Hook’s Revenge, Book 1 Hook’s Revenge at Amazon.ca
Dork Diaries by Rachel Renee Russell
I started reading these with my daughter this last year. They are laugh out loud funny and so easy to connect with. Nikki is a great character and the teen drama she faces, and how she deals with it, is authentic.
Dork Diaries Box Set (Book 1-3) at Amazon.com
Dork Diaries Box Set (Book 1-3): Dork Diaries at Amazon.ca
Sisters by Raina Telgemeier
My 11 year old read this first and then I read it with my 8 year old. It’s funny and cute and true to life in that, it’s not always easy being a family. But, when you need them, they’re there.
Frindle by Andrew Clements
This is an awesome book. I read it with my 8 year old and it made me laugh even as it opened the door to great conversations with her. The main character makes up a new word for what we call a “pen”. A great read about the power of words and how they impact our actions.
Wonder by R.J. Palacio
I haven’t even finished this book but I can tell you without one tiny hint of doubt that it will be one of the best reads ever. Not just this year.
Picture Books
(contrary to some beliefs, these are not only for small children)
This plus That: Life’s little equations by Amy Krouse Rosenthal and Jen Corace
A sweet and fun read with adorable pictures that highlights math vocabulary even as it shows kids how things are connected. Me+ Writing= Happy.
This Plus That: Life’s Little Equations at Amazon.com
Those Shoes by Maribeth Beolts
This one was read to me and I have to say, I still love being read to. This is a great one to open kids eyes to the power of empathy and giving.
The Invisible Boy by Trudy Ludwig and Patrice Barton
This story is a little bittersweet. You feel bad for the little boy with no friends, but love the fact that he’s okay in his own little world. Also worth noting, the color comes as friendship brightens his life which is beautiful, literally and figuratively.
The Invisible Boy at Amazon.com
The Invisible Boy at Amazon.ca
The very inappropriate word by Jim Tobin and Dave Coverly
Full of great vocabulary, this book is funny. I’ve read it several times and it’s a great way to get kids to look at the power of words and language.
The Very Inappropriate Word at Amazon.com
The Very Inappropriate Word at Amazon.ca
What do you do with an idea? by Kobi Yamada and Mae Besom
My school librarian shared this book with me and it is such a tangible idea to show how when your brain gets locked on an idea, sometimes you have to go with it.
What Do You Do With an Idea? at Amazon.com
What Do You Do with an Idea? at Amazon.ca
Books I can’t wait to read next
Fish in a Tree – Linda Mullaly Hunt
The name is part of one of my favourite quotes so of course I’m drawn to it. That and the fact that her book One for the Murphys was one of my favourite reads of 2013.
Mark of the Thief – Jennifer A. Nielsen
I think I need to read this one on my own before with my class. When I read the Ascendance Trilogy, I got so hooked that we might have missed some math lessons.
What are some of your favorite kids reads this year? Anything you’re looking forward to? Also, in an openly shameless bid for self-promotion, I hope to one day make it onto one of your favorite lists. Either with the adult books I have coming out in 2015 or with the picture book, SWEET DREAM SISTERS, that will be available in 2016. Have a very, Happy well-read 2015.
