Staff Suggestions — Kids 10+ Years
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
One of those books that pulls you in so deeply you forget you are reading - what joy! This is a wonderful choice for school night reading because it isn't too wordy, but every word is just right, adding up to a story with heart, humor and hope.
— Laura
An important look at the harrowing journey endured, and relentless hope embraced, by so many refugees. It is sometimes the youngest who survive, who must say a sad farewell to comrades who don’t. Colfer’s brilliant storytelling keeps the reader’s hope alive to the bittersweet ending. It’s also the perfect use of the graphic novel format: urgent, tense, and real.
— Jamie
This story is told in an unusual format that I’ll confess I wasn’t sure I’d like. It’s a series of letters & printed out texts & recorded conversations, so I thought it’d be choppy & difficult to follow. But boy was I wrong! What it does do is help each character’s personality shine through, allows us to get inside their heads & understand their different points-of-view. While Nora & her classmates are preparing letters for a time capsule for an end-of-year project, there’s a breakout at the local prison. This tension-filled, yet humorous book will open important conversations about race, privilege & different ways to look at situations.
— Susan
If the story of Malala captured your attention, then you will truly appreciate Amal’s story. “Life isn’t fair.” That’s what Amal’s father has told her. Maybe that’s true…but why is that a reason to just accept everything & go along with it? Amal hopes there really is someone out there who has the courage to stand up & say no. What is wonderful is Amal discovers she is the one to do it! When Amal accidentally offends one of the most powerful families in her village, she is forced to work as a servant, not only as punishment but also to pay off a debt that her father owes to them. But Amal’s spirit carries her through in making change. What an inspiring story. I love Amal's spirit.
— Susan
I was completely drawn in by this story about learning to balance being a kid and taking charge of your own life. Alice’s 12th summer is threatened by change - her family is a mess, her friends are away and a late birthday means she is the youngest in her swim category. But hard work and perseverance lead to new opportunities, and staying true to what is important to Alice leads to the “tiny infinities” that mark the diffrence between sinking and success in this realistic, engaging, and ultimately hopeful novel.
— Laura
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