Recently, some moms have asked me for recommendations for kids that have outgrown middle grade books, but aren’t quite ready for YA books like The Hunger Games. It can be frustrating for both kids and parents to find books that feel authentic and relevant yet are still age appropriate. This is a list of books to help smooth that transition.
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The School for Good and Evil
This is a moving story of selflessness, the strength of friendship, and the way we perceive ourselves. Full of magic, mystery, and suspense, The School for Good and Evil is a story with deep insights and heart-pounding adventure.
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Ice Dogs
The frozen wilderness of Alaska can be a harsh place to get lost, but that's exactly what happens to 14-year-old Victoria in this tale of survival, friendship, and the unbreakable bond between a girl and her dogs.
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Itch series
When Itchingham Lofte stumbles across an element that's not on the periodic table, he finds himself racing to hide the new element before it starts the Third World War. Fans of adventure, explosions, and mad scientists will love this series.
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At Your Service
This is an upbeat, fun book about a junior concierge at a fancy New York hotel. Chloe is in charge of entertaining the children of some visiting royals, but it ends up being a much bigger job than she bargained for!
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Hatchet
This fascinating story will grip even the most reluctant of readers. Brian Robeson's small plane goes down in the Canadian wilderness, leaving him with nothing but a parka, a hatchet, and the will to survive.
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The Outsiders
The Greasers vs. Socs classic that has captivated young readers for generations is still relevant. Full of emotion, drama, and insights into human nature, The Outsiders is a story for the ages.
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Island of the Blue Dolphins
When Karana's entire village flees her island home, she is left alone to fend for herself. Based on true events, this is a fascinating tale of the perseverance of the human spirit.
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The Book Thief
This bestselling book has touched hearts all over the world. It is the magnificent story of a young German girl during World War II, the friends she makes, and the books she steals.
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Book of a Thousand Days
The mistress of fairy tales delivers a breathtaking story about a strong heroine who is fiercely loyal and never gives up. This is a book that kids will want to read again and again.
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The Hobbit
A personal favorite from my early teen years, The Hobbit is an epic adventure all its own, featuring Galdalf, Bilbo, Smaug, and Gollum. Kids that like fantasy and appreciate classic literature will fall in love with this story.
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My Fair Godmother
Janette Rallison has a unique talent for humor. She combines fairy tales, a fairy godmother failure, and a wish gone wacky into a gut-busting tale of romance and humor.
