Enjoy the following reviews for Middle-Grade fiction and Nonfiction. This is typically ages 8-12.
Unbreakable
Recommended Ages: 10-14
Unbreakable: the Spies Who Cracked the Nazi’s Secret Code is a great nonfiction read for anyone interested in code breaking and World War II.
Cautionary note about Alan Turing at the end of the review.
The Shape of Thunder
Recommended Ages: 8-12
This book is certainly not for every reader and there are elements that should be discussed with readers. The story is written from two alternating perspectives, Cora and Quinn. As details are slowly revealed, the central conflict becomes clearer – Quinn’s older brother, Parker, took guns to school and killed four people, one of which included her best friend Cora’s sister, Mabel.
This book is not one I would recommend.
Ten Thousand Tries
Recommended Ages: 8-12
Ten Thousand Tries by Amy Makechnie is a unique middle school novel that provides insight to those who suffer from ALS (Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis).
Other Words for Home
Recommended Ages: 9-12
Other Words for Home by Jasmine Warga is a middle school novel told in verse and separated into six parts.
There are some details that may be notes of caution for some families and readers. Please take a moment to review the details I provide.
The Trail
Recommended Ages: 8-12
The Trail by Meika Hashimoto is a timeless coming of age adventure story dealing with the processing of grief at its very core. Toby is hiking the Appalachian Trail in order to finish “the list” he and his friend Lucas created.
Cautionary Content: Lucas is dead, and another character is contemplating suicide.
The Gauntlet
Recommended Ages: 8-12
The Gauntlet is very reminiscent of Jumanji. It is Farah’s birthday, and her aunt brings her a special gift. Unfortunately, this game has a mind of its own, and it was not what her aunt had actually intended to give her.
Once Upon a Camel
Recommended Ages: 8-11
Once Upon a Camel is a delightful tale about a camel named Zada and her American Kestrel friends. The story takes place in the desert of Texas as a haboob barrels through the land. Zada is tasked with getting the baby Kestrel’s to safety.
Sal and Gabi Break the Universe
Recommended Ages: 8-12
Cautionary Material: Sexual content mentioned. I would personally stay away from this book -especially given the age range expected for the topics presented. Not worth the read.
Arch of Bone
Recommended Ages: 9-13
Yolen writes “Melville’s novel Moby-Dick was based on a real event. However, my book follows those left behind in Melville’s telling —the widow Starbuck and her son Josiah.”
Two Degrees
Recommended Ages: 9+
Highly cautionary material. I would not add this book to my child’s reading list.
Crazy Horse and Custer: Born Enemies
Recommended Ages: 10-14
Nonfiction read about two iconic American men.
Northwind
Recommended Ages: 10+
Northwind opens with the backdrop of an orphan boy whose misfortunes lead him to essentially be a slave on various fishing vessels until he is left with Old Carl and another young child known as Little Carl. Lief, the orphan boy of about 13-14 years of age, must flee his village due to the death sickness that arrived on what is named the death ship. Lief is tasked with not only fleeing North to safer air but must take care of Little Carl as well.
The Sheep, The Rooster, the Duck
Looking for an adorable story with animals willing to save the day?