Recommended Middle Grade Fiction from our 2021 Winter Newsletter

Janae Marks delivers a vibrant novel that reads absolutely true to the experience of being a kid, and the rarified world one lives in at that time. Joy Taylor’s problems are real—an unexpected move, family troubles, a new school, feeling out new friends—and her journey to overcome them both resonated with me and inspired me. The escapades Joy and her friends fall into, and the friends themselves, kept me turning pages and feeling right at home.—Jocelyn

Everyone dismissed the prophecy because it was about a girl messing with power. It’s the same reason everyone overlooked Beatryce. With the help of a monk, an orphan boy, a mysterious man in the woods, and a cantankerous goat, Beatryce is going to surprise them all. Kate DiCamillo’s books are always a delight and this does not disappoint, especially when paired with Sophie Blackall’s illustrations. Strange and surreal, it kept me guessing until the last moment.—Ivy

The game of life isn’t easy, and Joplin men are known for playing the hand they are dealt. Sometimes. What’s it like to try to meet your father’s expectations when he’s keeping a secret that can tear the family apart? 10-year-old Anthony (“Ant”) needs to win the card tournament, but he doesn't know how or who will help him get there. Can he find the courage and perseverance to be a good card player and a good young man?—Noreen

Silas Bird has a genius for a father and a ghost for a best friend. Their simple lives are upended when men take his father in the night, believing him to be a notorious criminal. When Silas goes after them, he finds deep woods and even deeper secrets. R.J. Palacio (author of Wonder) has crafted a surprising departure from her previous work and it is excellent. Trust me, this story is both unexpected and exactly what you want.—Ivy

This book is a puzzle. So is life. It’s like looking through the little colorful bits of glass in a kaleidoscope. There is imagination, love, grief, and hope. Each successive reading of this apparently simple book leads us to know more, go deeper, and ask more questions. Written during Covid lockdown, this story may help us even in the hardest times. Readers of Brian Selznick’s The Invention of Hugo Cabret or Wonderstruck won’t be disappointed.—Noreen

Laying twelve fairy tales bare while questioning their traditional endings and moral lessons, Chainani reweaves these tales into modern masterpieces tackling the patriarchy, gender roles, and happy endings. Surprising and magical, each story is beautifully crafted, drawing the reader in. This is perfect for anyone who enjoys a good fairy tale and beautiful writing. Read it with a friend so you can discuss it together!—Kathy