Spring Reading 2023 Middle Grade Fiction

Dear Mothman is an important story about how we're never truly alone. A young trans boy named Noah discovers his identity and comes to terms with his grief for his best friend’s passing through writing letters to the mythical cryptid Mothman. And Mothman just might be responding. With the help of his new friends, Noah dedicates himself to proving Mothman’s existence, a journey that absolutely warmed my heart.

—Mo

I had a wonderful time following all the threads in this one! You Are Here brings together twelve authors to write twelve stories about twelve Asian-American kids in an airport, each with their own perspective on what's going down. With stories about speaking out and standing up for both yourself and others in the face of both unintentional and malevolent racism, this book will leave you feeling both warmed and inspired.

—Yves

Estrild thirsted for what the boys had: power. Varrick had an inquisitive mind before science even existed. Together they tell the story of the “Windeby child,” an ancient adolescent body found in a bog in northern Germany in 1952. Two-time Newbery Award–winning author Lois Lowry (The Giver and Number the Stars) brilliantly combines history and storytelling to demonstrate life lived in the Iron Age, 2000 years ago. A great book for inquisitive readers.

—Noreen

Grace is a witch and, even worse in her opinion, an orphan. Her plan to solve both problems is to convince the witch in the woods (who possibly eats children?) to teach her magic and hopefully find a home at last. Inspired by Anne of Green Gables, this delightful novel stands all on its own. As a former dramatic child myself, I really appreciate Grace’s foibles and determination. Clutch this book to your chest and swoon with its magicality! 

—Ivy

Leeva Spayce Thornblossom’s mother thinks only of power and fame. Her father thinks only of money. No one thinks of Leeva. Slipping through the hedge around her house, Leeva finds the power to change everything! With the help of a friendly librarian, amazing and unlimited books, home-baked cookies, and some unusual friends, Leeva finds her way home and an answer to her big question, “What are people for?”

—Noreen