Staff Suggestions — Kids 10+ Years
Wonderful, summery, Cape Cod realistic fiction. Plenty of sadness and loss, but family and friends are there to help Lucy through it. Great writing and cool shark science will make this a popular book this summer, especially for fans of The Thing About Jellyfish.
— Jamie
Through a broken future we follow cursed mute Ye, a boy with a shadow in his soul on a quest for redemption. Ye is a beautifully crafted metaphor for ... well that would be telling. So I’ll take a page from our protagonist and say it’s a Ye from me.
— Matt
The Breakaways - a team of middle school, misfit soccer players who don’t really like soccer at all! This quirky graphic novel displays a diverse crew of girls who, although they don’t find much fun in the game, do find friendship, understanding, and acceptance in each other. These unique characters bring an honest, oddly charming story to life about the tough world of middle school, and finding where you belong in the world.
— Tonya
Never have I liked a main character more than I do Jordan. Never! And what a thoughtfully written middle grade (graphic) novel that opened my eyes, my mind, and my heart. Jerry Craft skillfully put me in the heads of all these very different kids. This is a book for every guy and girl to read no matter what your reading style is. Teachers of 5th grade and up, here’s a story you’ll want to have in your library. Loved it, loved it, loved it. Well done, Jerry Craft!
— Susan
How easy it is to hate a part of you you’re born with, that which you cannot change! This poignant story of learning to love yourself and forgive your family will have you cheering by the end! Perfect for older young readers who are into music, theater, or social work.
— Jamie
An encouraging story about being true to yourself while finding your place with friends and classmates. Although this could be considered a heavy topic, it was handled in such a way that it was a light and lively read. Great for tweens.
— Susan
Superb writing, an authentic voice, a moving plot, and a character you can’t help but love, makes this a book you’ll sail through in no time. The master of realistic fiction, Sharon Draper brought Isabella and her challenges to life for me. Many will find her situation familiar; for others it’s an important, eye-opening story about divorce, identity, race, and more. Everyone should read this book!
— Susan
I love these two relatable characters! Guys make plans. Plans fail. Guys make new plans. Plans fail—or do they? And where did a little guy like Devin Velma get a right hook?! Local author Jake Burt has delivered a winner!
— Jamie
Anything Victoria Schwab touches turns to gold! And this story is no exception. Schwab manages to perfectly capture the paranormal vibe—think Ghostbusters and Supernatural all mixed together to create a middle grade tale about the power of friendship and that sometimes even the bravest at heart need to be rescued every once in a while. I loved the super-funny friendship between Jacob and Cass and the entertaining plot that has Schwab’s special touch. You will love this book—I guarantee you that!
— ARC REVIEWER Lena B.
10-year-old Paulie is struggling with his father’s violent death. With his mom unable to cope, he moves in with Aunt Bee, transfers to a new school, and is immersed in a world of discrimination and unfairness. As more details come to light about his dad’s death, Paulie wrestles with his feelings of anger and confusion. Eventually his turmoil leads him to understanding and appreciating the true meaning of friendship. Wow, this story was amazing and very different from anything I’ve ever read. I like that it was written in verse.
— ARC REVIEWER Imogen S., age 9
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