The Books Kids Say They Can’t Wait to Read in 2016
by Kari Ness Riedel
As a book blogger, I get lots of emails about upcoming books from new authors that I’ve put on my 2016 TBR (to be read) list. But, perhaps not surprisingly, when I asked third through sixth graders across the country what they were most excited to read in 2016, their list looked a bit different.
The kids’ picks focused mostly on the latest book in a series they love or books their friends have been raving about. Here are some of the most anticipated books that kids can’t wait to crack open in the new year.
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Newest Book in My Favorite Series
When a young reader gets hooked on a series, it can lead to hours of reading bliss and weeks (or months) of not worrying about what to read next. Kids are counting down the days until these titles come out in 2016.
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Comics Squad #2: Lunch!
This is the ultimate sampler platter of graphic novels. Eight short stories all focused on the craziness of school lunch by the authors of much-loved graphic novel series like Babymouse, Nathan Hale’s Hazardous Tales, Lunch Lady, and El Deafo.
(Available: January 26, 2016) -
The Race Against Time: Journey Through Time #3
Geronimo, a time traveling mouse, heads to the Ice Age, ancient Greece, and the Renaissance in the third book in this fantasy adventure series.
(Available: January 26, 2016) -
Big Nate Blasts Off
In the eighth novel of this series, Big Nate continues to have daily dramas involving friendships, girls, and Mud Bowls.
(Available: February 16, 2016) -
The Land of Stories: Book # 5
Siblings Conner and Alex have one crazy escapade after another as they travel through the magical land of familiar fairy tale stories they loved as children.
(Available: July 12, 2016)
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Books Everyone Knows but I Still Haven’t Read
You may think everyone over the age of ten has read these insanely popular titles, but several students said that 2016 is the year they will finally move these books to their “Read it” pile.
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Harry Potter Series
The well-known story of the boy wizard who heads to Hogwarts and takes on “he who must not be named.” The themes of friendship, bravery, and love coupled with spellbinding adventures can engross even the most reluctant reader.
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Wonder
Available from:The brilliantly told story of a fifth grade boy, Auggie, with a facial deformity who attends a regular school for the first time in his life. It’s funny, sad, heartwarming, and declared to be “the best book ever” by many kids.
Also available from: -
The Maze Runner
Available from:A dystopian adventure story set in a post-apocalyptic world where teens’ memories are wiped clean and they are put through horrible trials in the name of a higher good. An action-packed story that is best suited for older middle schoolers or mature readers.
Also available from:
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Books Recommended by Friends
Nothing can beat an “OMG, you have to read this” recommendation from a friend. Here are a few books that kids want to read based purely on the review of a trusted friend. If your kid is stuck on what to read, find out what their friends are loving.
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Fish in a Tree
Available from:The emotional story of Ally, a sixth grader who can’t read but has successfully hidden her secret from teachers, friends, and family. That is, until she meets her new teacher, Mr. Daniels. Funny and relatable characters build empathy and remind readers of the importance of breaking free of labels.
Also available from: -
The Doll People
What happens to your dolls when you go to sleep? This unique take on the “toys come alive” concept centers on Annabelle, a 100-year-old china doll, and Tiffany, a plastic Fun-craft doll. An engaging mystery wrapped in a sweet friendship story with excellent illustrations.
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The Meaning of Maggie
Eleven-year-old Maggie writes her own memoir chronicling the typical ups and down of middle school life and the serious challenges she faces when she realizes her dad has an incurable neurological disease. This warm and sad story tackles tough issues that are familiar to many families, including the author.
