Excellent Realistic Fiction Books for Kids

Emma Is On the Air Party Drama! by Ida Siegal (series)
ages 6 – 9

Emma and her friends are excited about the costume contest — but when Sophia’s costume disappears mysteriously, the group investigates clues and interviews witnesses to discover what happened. Her group of friends finds news and shares it in video news reports.

Jasmine Toguchi Mochi Queen by Debbi Michiko Florence, illustrated by Eliazbet Vukovic
ages 6 – 9

Jasmine is so jealous that the older kids in her family have important jobs on the mochi making day — she wants to do what the older boys and men are doing, pound the mochi rice. Her understanding father figures out a way for Jasmine to join in. And even though it didn’t work out how she wanted, her family is proud of her and decides it’s okay to break some rules like who gets to pound the rice. Not only is the story’s message very sweet, but you’ll also love how Jasmine’s Japanese-American culture and warm family community shine throughout.

Zoo Camp Puzzle by Gail Herman
ages 7 – 9

Ava and Rosie are not excited to move to the zoo for the summer with their brother, writer mom, and teacher dad. But once they arrive, they change their minds quickly. Now they’re really worried about the missing pronghorns and the suspicious trucks just outside the fences. With the help of their brother Ethan, the siblings must figure out what’s happening and how to keep the animals safe. Throughout the book, you’ll find pages with activities like puzzles and mazes as well as information about the animals at the zoo. You’ll love both the mystery story and the factual sections of information. It’s really well done! Also in the series: Puppy Rescue Riddle.

Lola Levine Is Not Mean by Monica Brown
ages 7 – 10
Second-grade soccer-loving Lola, daughter of a Peruvian mom and Jewish dad, is misunderstood. I loved the diversity and the realistic topics of life and playing sports –so many kids will be able to relate to this charming story. See also: Lola Levine: Drama Queen.

Bink & Gollie Best Friends Forever by Kate DiCamillo and Alison McGhee, illustrated by Tony Fucile
ages 6 – 9
The second book of funny Bink and Gollie (mis)adventures in friendship and life filled with wonderful color illustrations. (Very easy.)

Violet Mackerel’s Possible Friend by Anna Branford, illustrated by Alanna Allen
ages 6 – 9
This is a sweet story about friendship and super relatable to kids. Especially because Violet worries that she’s not fancy enough for her new, rich neighbor friend, Rose. But Rose loves everything about Violet. Love!

Weekends with Max and His Dad by Linda Urban, illustrated by Katie Kath
ages 6 – 8
This is a terrific book that captures the fun of time spent with a caring parent who is totally present for his son– I loved the short story format of adventures and that the story didn’t make a big deal of Max’s parents divorce but was simply part of the way life was. Excellent.

Jenny and the Cat Club: A Collection of Favorite Stories about Jenny Linsky
ages 6 – 9
Join Jenny and her friends, including fearless Pickles the Fire Cat, on their spirited downtown adventures and discover why The Atlantic Monthly called Jenny “a personality ranking not far below such giants as Peter Rabbit.”

Stink and the Shark Sleepover by Megan McDonald, illustrated by Peter H. Reynolds
ages 6 – 9
I love this realistic story because it’s an exciting adventure as well as it includes a lot of factual information about marine life. Stink gets to sleepover at the aquarium. While he’s there, he learns more about sharks, gets to solve a mystery, learns a ghost story, and has tons of fun.  Of course, the Peter H. Reynolds illustrations are ah-mazing as always.

Shelter Pet Squad: Jelly Bean by Cynthia Lord
ages 6 – 9
I’m a big fan of Cynthia Lord’s middle-grade books and I really like this new series, too. Suzannah joins the Shelter Pet Squad because her apartment building doesn’t allow pets. She meets a sad girl who has to leave her guinea pig, Jelly Bean, at the shelter due to moving. Suzannah promises the girl she’ll find Jelly Bean a good home. Only it’s not as easy as she first thought. The Shelter Pet Squad works together to find the perfect home — a kindergarten classroom.

Like Carrot Juice on a Cupcake by Julie Sternberg, illustrated by Matthew Cordell
ages 6 – 9
I really loved this story told in first person from Eleanor’s point of view. It’s about the challenges when Eleanor gets jealous of a new girl she thinks her best friend Pearl might like better than her. This made my top five list of best books for the year.

Because of Winn-Dixie by Kate DiCamillo
ages 7 – 9
Opal’s preacher father is always too busy and her mother has been gone since Opal was three, something Opal has always wondered about. But Opal finds someone to care for, a stray dog that she names Winn-Dixie, and that dog brings hope and meaning into 10-year old Opal’s life. Brilliant.

Charlotte’s Web by E.B. White, illustrated by Garth Williams
ages 6 – 9
So much more than a book about farm animals, this story is a beautiful tribute to friendship that incorporates love and death as well. It’s a classic for a reason and one of the best-written children’s books in existence.

Charlie Bumpers vs. The Squeaking Skill by Bill Harley, illustrated by Adam Gustavson
ages 6 – 9
This beginning chapter book is about friends, not-so-good friends, scary movies, and Halloween costumes. Charlie, the main character, deals with disappointment, fear, and empathy, in a very relatable story that could easily happen to any child at this age.

Mouse Scouts: Make a Difference #2 by Sarah Dillard
ages 6 – 9

Six new Mouse Scouts and friends share adventures as they seek new merit badges. In this story, the girls must to work together to rescue a . . . CAT! What a sweet new illustrated series for beginning chapter book readers. See also Mouse Scouts #1.

Benji Franklin Kid Zillionaire by Raymond Bean

ages 7 – 10

A delightful, well-paced story of super-smarty Benji who earns his first million by inventing an app of excuses for a school project. Then he’s asked to advise on some wild and secret projects — when cloned dinosaurs escape and an asteroid will collide with the Earth. I really like that he has a close relationship with his mom and dad, too.

Star in the Forest by Laura Resau
ages 8 – 12
Star in the Forest is a good introduction to the situation of Mexican children illegally in the U.S., who are fearful and sometimes separated from their family members. We learn that friendship comes from the most unlikely of friends, even someone like Crystal who despite her lies, is a loyal friend. And, we find that Zitlally’s love for her father helps her do courageous things.

The Friendship Code #1 Girls Who Code by Stacia Deutsch

ages 8 – 12

Lucy joins coding club so she can make an app for her uncle to remember his medications. But the class is moving TOO slow. Then, a mysterious letter arrives on her locker with instructions in code:

if (you_want_to_learn_code) {

 do_everything_I_tell_you ();

}

The subsequent messages in code put her back in touch with old friends and help her build a new friendship. But who is sending her messages? Whoever it is, they’re teaching Lucy and her friends about input/output, conditionals, loops, and variables. To solve the mystery, the girls decide to write their own code . . . This series is off to a great start with an intriguing mystery, friendship dilemmas, and tangible coding knowledge. I’m impressed.

One-Third Nerd by Gennifer Choldenko, illustrated by Eglantine Ceulemans
ages 8 – 12

I love these three unique, wonderful siblings — they stick together and look out for each other. Liam is a responsible, kind big brother in fifth grade. His mom and dad have recently divorced and now their grumpy landlord has given them an ultimatum — they’ll have to give away their German Sheperd dog, Cupcake, unless her peeing problem gets solved. Choldenko crafts a beautiful, multi-layered, warm-hearted story that celebrates family, unique personalities as well the richness in having a dog. I love this story so much. If you like the Penderwicks or the VanderBeekers, you will love this book, too.

Louisiana’s Way Home by Kate DiCamillo
ages 8 – 12
What a luminous, sparkling gem of a book with quirky, complex characters! Granny drags Louisiana out of bed in the middle of the night, insisting that they leave their home to confront the family curse. Not only does Louisiana not want to leave her friends and home, but things also get even worse when Granny abandons Louisiana at a motel along the way. Forced to fend for herself, Louisiana figures out how to survive miles from home while worrying that the family curse has destined her for an unhappy life.  Don’t miss this enthralling, emotionally resonant story.

No Fixed Address by Susin Nielsen
ages 9 – 12
Felix doesn’t want to tell anyone that he’s been living in a van for months and months. His mom, Astrid, is worried about social services taking him so he keeps quiet even though he really wants a bathroom. His hope is that he can win his favorite TV game show so they’ll finally have enough money to get an apartment. One of the things I loved about this story is how it shows a child’s love for a parent despite all the parent’s flaws–and his mom has many like lying and not holding down a job. It also depicts homelessness as circumstances beyond a child’s control — which is something most kids don’t know or think to consider. This well-written book is beautiful, important, and highly recommended. (Added to Books That Facilitate Empathy: Poverty)

Pie in the Sky by Remy Lai
ages 8 – 12

Pie in the Sky is an insightful, funny, and poignant look at the struggles of immigrating to a new country (Australia) and the difficulties of learning English along with growing up and grieving the loss of a father. Jingwen’s observations and wit make him a likable main character and the illustrations capture the depth and flavors of his experiences. He likens learning English to becoming human. After school with his brother, he bakes the cakes that his father wanted to include at his dream Pie in the Sky bakery. It’s a coming of age story that is both salty and sweet, the perfect blend. (Occasional bad word but feels appropriate in context.)

Pippa Park Raises Her Game by Erin Yun
ages 9 – 13

Exceptional! Korean American Pippa is a great basketball player but her guardian older sister won’t let her play unless her grades improve. But math tutoring by the cutest boy she’s ever seen might be what leads to a scholarship at a prestigious private school. Pippa uses the new school to reinvent herself, hiding her background from the popular kids (not wealthy, from a rival middle school.) While she’s figuring out who she is, she is mean to her best friend. Little does she know that someone is watching and documenting it all, sending her threatening emails, then publishes the truth for the entire school to see. In a satisfying ending with valuable life lessons, Pippa decides to not be ashamed of her working-class family, her culture, or her friends. Girl readers, in particular, will be able to relate to the social hierarchy of middle school and the temptation to change yourself to suit others.

Jacky Ha-Ha by James Patterson and Chris Grabenstein
age 8 – 12
Jacky stutters badly so to make life easier, she just makes a joke . . . about everything. Now at age 12, she’s started the new school year with tons of detentions. Luckily, someone sees the potential in Jacky and lets her “serve” those detentions in the school play, You’re a Good Man Charlie Brown. It turns out Jacky is a natural actor — and that helps distract her from her Nonna being sick, her mom being deployed, and her dad never being home. Very enjoyable!

Ghosts by Raina Telgemeier
ages 8 – 12
Catrina’s little sister, Maya, is sick with cystic fibrosis. A ghost tour outing with a neighbor boy sends Maya to the hospital. Cat feels guilt and fear for her sister, knowing that her sister’s lungs will never get better. But as the neighbor introduces Cat to the beautiful Day of the Dead celebration, Cat starts to see death and life differently. Beautifully written and illustrated, this story deftly deals with big issues in an interesting, unique way.

Rowan is a lonely child who feels confused about his gender identity. Born a girl, Rowan longs to be a boy. He changes his name all the time reflecting what a confusing time it is, which he shares in letters he attaches to balloons, hoping someone will find them and understand his struggles. Even more confusing is his dad coming into his room at night which he questions in his search for what it means to be a male because he doesn’t like his father’s version.The Ship We Built is a story filled with longing and heartbreak, confusion and questions, abuse, and hope. It’s a powerful, emotional story about gender identity, sexual abuse, and survival. 

I Can Make This Promise by Christine Day
ages 9 – 12

The author skillfully weaves an important, heartfelt story about growing up, family, and finding your identity in the context of adoption, historical maltreatment of Native Americans, and the mystery of your own heritage. When Edie unexpectedly finds a box of photos and letters from the woman she suspects was her mom’s birth mother, it prompts a journey to discover the truth of her Native heritage. The truth opens her eyes (and ours) to the unjust but common practices that happened throughout U.S. history of taking Native kids away from their birth parents; parents whose only crime was being Native.

You will fall in love with these characters, especially the brave older sister, Jack, who narrates the story, and her sweet younger brother Birdie. Their mom’s death sent the siblings to live with their uncles; now with the stoic Uncle Patrick. Uncle Patrick, a man of few words, initially makes Birdie buy and wear “regular” boy clothes instead of the more flamboyant choices he normally wears. Uncle Patrick thinks he’s helping solve the bullying problems that Birdie continues to face at school. But eventually, Patrick realizes that his assumptions are wrong and makes space for Birdie to be himself. Big sister Jack unconditionally loves her brother and models complete acceptance for who he is, even though he’s not sure himself. Their new family life isn’t easy but this is such a beautiful story arc that begins with grief, confusion, and discomfort but ends in redemption, love, and hope.

Genesis Begins Again by Alicia D. Williams
ages 9 – 12

Don’t miss this important story about self-worth, beauty, and colorism. Genesis hates that her skin is so dark; she knows her grandma and father hate that about her, too. In her self-loathing, she believes that if only she were lighter-skinned, she’d be pretty and have all the things that go along with being pretty. In this coming-of-age story, Genesis finds her voice both literally and metaphorically. It will start the conversation about who defines beauty and how we can do better individually and as a society.

Unteachables by Gordon Korman
ages 8 – 12

Funny, sensitive, well-written, brilliantly paced, relatable, and poignant. The middle school assigns the worst teacher, Mr. Kermit, to a class of the so-called worst kids –the class known as the unteachables because Mr. Kermit does not care at all about teaching. Or disciplining. Or his students. them. As we get to know the kids in this small class, something surprising happens that gets Mr. Kermit to care just a little. And that opens the gates to even more caring and a big life change. As things get more complicated, like Mr. Kermit getting notice that he will be fired, we see that the class’s unexpected mechanic field trips are transforming both the students and Mr. Kermit who begins to see the potential in each child. This is reciprocated, too. Because the students have a plan for saving their teacher’s job. I think this book will get kids reading AND thinking.

Maybe He Just Likes You by Barbara Dees
ages 10 – 13
Middle schooler Mila is feeling trapped— a group of basketball playing boys is getting too close, grabbing her, touching her, and then telling her that she’s imagining it. Nothing works to deter the boys’ unwanted attention but unexpectedly, Mila finds inner strength when she starts karate classes. That strength helps her find what works to put a stop to the harassment.  I highly recommend this essential book; it should be shared widely with middle school boys and girls. Because it’s not funny, flirting, or being too sensitive. It’s hurtful & harassment & not okay.

A Good Kind of Trouble by Lisa Moore Ramée
ages 9 – 12

Middle school is hard enough with friend drama but add to it not-being-black-enough drama, personal and community race-related drama, and boy drama. Frankly, it’s a lot for 12-year-old Shayla who, unlike her older sister with all-black friends, has a diverse friend group she calls The United Nations. When a jury finds a cop innocent in the shooting death of a black boy, despite a video showing the boy walking away, Shayla decides to take a stand and support the Black Lives Matter movement. She wears an armband to school and rallies many of her classmates of all ethnicities to join her, even though the principal says it’s against the rules. Shayla explains to her classmates that black lives have been and are still being marginalized and treated differently than what is right, fair, or equal. This is a powerful story about a girl finding her voice.

Each Tiny Spark by Pablo Cartaya
ages 8 – 12

Each Tiny Spark is one of the best books about learning differences that I’ve ever read that also tackles PTSD and prejudice in a beautiful, important story. Emilia is a Cuban-American girl whose ADHD makes focusing on school and school work a challenge. Her mom helps her stay on top of her assignments but her mom leaves for a work trip, leaving Emilia on her own. During this time, the community proposes to redraw the school district’s boundary lines, exposing prejudice and ongoing injustice. Emilia initially doesn’t want to see her friend Clarissa’s racism but her best friend Gus helps her see the truth about what’s going on. She becomes a passionate activist against injustice. Meanwhile, Emilia’s father’s return from the Marines is different than before; he’s quiet and distant this time. When he invites Emilia to work on a vintage car, teaching Emilia to weld, it helps rebuild their relationship, too.

For Black Girls Like Me by Mariama J. Lockington
ages 9 – 12

Just like the author’s own experience as an adoptee, it’s hard for Makeda being a black adopted girl in a white family whom she loves but where she feels like she doesn’t fit– or is even seen. But there are even more challenges for Makeda these days, starting with being the little sister to a newly distant teenager, moving to a new town away from her BFF, having parents who are constantly fighting, and watching her mom’s mental health deteriorate and thinking it’s somehow her fault. (Adults will recognize the signs of bipolar disorder.) After her mom’s mania takes them on a trip to Colorado which abruptly nose dives into severe depression and a suicide attempt, Makeda reaches out for help. Don’t miss this insightful, honest story — it makes you think and will stay with you long after the last page. This is going on my list of the BEST books of 2019. It might sound like it covers too many topics but it’s perfect, beautifully written, and emotionally resonate.

Guts by Raina Telgemeier
ages 8 – 12

Raina shares her own life story, how in elementary school, her fears and anxieties led to terrible stomach aches, days of missed school, and time in therapy. Guts sensitively delves into the mind-body connection, showing therapy in a positive light. I wholeheartedly appreciate that the story shows a kind counselor who gives Raina helpful strategies. My daughter and I both love when Raina bravely presents to her class a strategy she learned in therapy — deep breathing.

Song for a Whale by Lynne Kelly
ages 9 – 12

 

 

The Benefits of Being an Octopus by Ann Braden
ages 9 – 12
This is a well-written story with an emotional poignancy about poverty and unhealthy relationships. Zoey is trying to stay hidden to survive her life but it’s not easy. She and her siblings are living with their mom’s newest boyfriend in his trailer. She’s required to care for her siblings while her mom works all the while avoiding making a mess or too much noise. A kind teacher at school persists with a reluctant, non-participative Zoey, encouraging her to try debate club. It’s that activity that eventually gives Zoey the courage and perspective to talk to her mom about everything — from her mom’s boyfriend’s belittling to her own friend getting threatened with a gun. That conversation changes everything for their family for the better… (Added to Books That Facilitate Empathy: Poverty)

Harbor Me by Jacqueline Woodson
ages 9 – 12
Harbor Me tackles some very big issues including race, immigration, bullying, learning differences, friendship, and forgiveness. The story is about six diverse children with learning differences. They bond during a special kids-only time on Friday afternoons where they share their stories, many of which Haley records on a tape recorder. Even as she learns about the other kids who are, Haley is reluctant to share that her own dad is in jail for the car accident killing her mother. When she does eventually share, it’s beautiful to see the other kids support her. This well-written story deserves to be discussed as it has a wealth of ideas to ponder.

Beast Rider by Tony Johnston and Maria Elena Fontanot de Rhoads
ages 9 – 12

An eye-opening, powerful story of growing up, immigration, and courage. Missing his older brother, 12-year-old Manuel decides to leave his family’s farm in Mexico for the United States. He hitches a ride ON TOP of a north-bound speedy freight train and begins a long, awful, and beautiful journey.

Insignificant Events in the Life of a Cactus by Dusti Bowling
ages 8 – 12

Aven Green is used to making up creative stories for why she doesn’t have any arms. Especially now in Arizona where her parents are the new managers a rundown theme park. She befriends a boy at school who, like her, feels different and isolated from the other kids. His name is Connor and he has  Tourette Syndrome. Together, he, another new friend named Zion, and Aven investigate a mysterious storage shed at the theme park which leads them to a mystery involving Aven’s past. This story is about restorative friendship, facing your fears, and discovering your true (significant) potential.  I loved the physical and mental diversity shown with so much strength and compassion. This would be a GREAT read aloud for classrooms and for at home. There’s much to love and discuss!! (Added to my Physical Disabilities Book List.)

Greetings From Witness Protection by Jake Burt
ages 8 – 12

A winsome story of adventure and finding where you belong. Nicki leaves the group home to live with a family in the witness protection program. She likes her newest foster family and takes her role seriously. She must stay vigilant against potential threats, not stand out, and try to keep her kleptomania under control. As she grows closer to her new family, both their past and hers catch up to them.

All Four Stars by Tara Dairman
ages 8 – 12

I loved this engaging story about food-enthusiast Gladys suffering in a house of microwaving parents without a taste bud between them. Gladys not only appreciates good food, but she also loves to cook and wants to be a food critic. She already has lots of practice writing her daily notes about her parents’ horrid creations. When a mix-up in a writing contest has the editors of a paper thinking she’s an adult, can she actually write a published review without letting anyone know she’s 10 years old?

Everyday Angel  by Victoria Schwab
ages 8 – 12
My 10-year-old loves these stories about an angel named Aria who is earning her wings by helping girls who are struggling in some way. In the first book, she helps Gabby. Gabby’s brother is hospitalized indefinitely and her mom is totally focused on her brother. It’s up to Aria to help Gabby at her new school and discover who she is. These are sweet, uplifting stories.

Crenshaw by Katherine Applegate
ages 8 – 12
After losing their home and living in their van for 3 months, the family is now about to lose their apartment. Although Jackson’s parents don’t tell him this, he knows the signs. He knows why they’re having a yard sale. He knows it’s not his dad’s fault for having MS but he’s mad and worried and alone. It isn’t until Crenshaw shows up and pushes Jackson to speak the truth to his parents that Jackson learns that he’s not facing this big fear and hard situation alone. Oh, and who is Crenshaw? He’s Jackson’s large, imaginary cat friend from when he was little returned to help Jackson in his time of need. I felt like it was a God metaphor. I wonder what you’ll think?

Wonder by R. J. Palacio
ages 8 – 12
Both “a meditation on kindness” and not judging people by how they look on the outside, but by their character. “I wish every day could be Halloween. We could all wear masks all the time. Then we could walk around and get to know each other before we got to see what we looked like under the masks.”Wonder helps us see compassion, empathy, and acceptance from a variety of character’s points of view. When I first read this book last year, it struck me as a powerful ways to meaningfully talk about bullying and kindness. I believe that it’s easier to see things first not in the lives of characters we read, so that as we read, we can apply those lessons to our own lives. In my experience as a teacher, this especially applies to kids.

The Crossover by Kwame Alexander
ages 9 – 12
Because this is written in verse, this is a fast read but packs a big punch. Basketball player and twin Josh narrates his life in quarters, just like the game he plays. He writes about missing his twin when his twin, Jordan, gets a girlfriend; about getting in trouble when he hits Jordan in the face with a basketball; and about watching his father as his heart fails. This is a coming-of-age, gripping story about a boy who is just trying to figure out life like most boys at age 12.

Ghost by Jason Reynolds
ages 8 – 12
Ghost accidentally gets on a track team and it’s life changing. His coach becomes a mentor and father figure who pushes Ghost to take responsibility for his mistakes (stealing sneakers) and to start dealing with the ghosts of his past. Well-written and hopeful about growing up and growing into yourself.

Patina by Jason Reynolds
ages 8 – 12
Patina’s anger sometimes gets the best of her but running helps. She’s mad about her dad dying, her mom’s legs being amputated, and her new school. When her track coach makes Patty work with her teammates in a relay, she’s forced to rely on them. And that changes things. A beautiful coming of age story that will pull at your emotions.

See You in the Cosmos by Jack Cheng
ages 8 – 12
Luminous and heartfelt, 11-year-old Alex Petroski’s story will grab your heart and expand it. His dream is to launch a rocket into space with his iPod of recordings about life on earth. The story is a transcription of what he records on the iPod — his solo journey to the rocket convention, the interesting people he befriends on the way and there, his trip Las Vegas to find information about his deceased father, and his unique, innocent perspective that tries to make sense of the the world.

The Someday Birds by Sally J. Pla
ages 8 – 12
The Someday Birds is a magnificent story of emotional growth and healing. Charlie’s dad has brain damage from the war. When he’s moved across the country to a different hospital, Charlie and his siblings follow on an adventure that Charlie doesn’t want. But as the kids travel, along with a 20-something girl they hardly know, he searches for the birds he and his father always wanted to see . . . someday. The journey brings Charlie, who has autism, way out of his comfort zone. As it does, he grows in ways he never imagined. And Charlie hopes that if he can see all of the Someday Birds, his dad will get better.

Marcus Vega Doesn’t Speak Spanish by Pablo Cartaya
ages 8.- 12

Marcus is an entrepreneurial kid who makes the most of his intimidating size. He’s also very protective of his brother with Down syndrome who faces prejudice at school. When Marcus gets suspended, his mother takes the brothers to Puerto Rico, the home country of their father who abandoned them years before. Even though they are only meant to visit relatives, Marcus hopes to find his father and reconnect. Instead, he finds a loving, extended family, the truth about his dad, and a growing sense of his own identity. Remarkable. I loved every moment of this story.

Blended by Sharon Draper
ages 8 – 12

Isabella spends one week with her dad and his girlfriend, the next week with her mom and her boyfriend. She hates it. She really hates exchange day when she switches. She feels like nowhere is home, she’s always visiting. And her parents, one who is white and one who is black, don’t get along. Tensions between the families get worse when both parents decide to remarry — on the same date. Add to this hurtful race issues like when she and her stepbrother are pulled over because of he’s black and in the wrong place at the wrong time. Sharon Draper writes a story that captures Isabella’s feelings of division as she searches for who she is in her own story.

Can You See Me by Libby Scott and Rebecca Westcott
REALISTIC / #OWNVOICES / AUTISM

ages 8 – 12
Co-written by Libby Scott who is a girl on the autism spectrum (#ownvoices) and based on her journals, this poignant, exceptional story shows what it’s like to be autistic...But it also shows how difficult it really is for family and friends to understand, too. Tally’s behavior reflects her brain trying to navigate the world and it is challenging for others, even when they try hard to understand. Tally relates to 3 legged dog who doesn’t like new people. She takes everything literally, has trouble (big trouble!!) with mandates, feelings, and friendships. Eventually, Tally learns to find her own version of “normal”, a word that comes up a lot in this book. Please read this #ownvoices story that so deftly shows what autism can be like. It’s a story that will help those of us who aren’t on the spectrum, have more empathy and compassion.

The Space Between Lost and Found by Sandy Stark-McGinnis
REALISTIC / EARLY ONSET ALZHEIMER’S

ages 8 – 12
A story about the long process of saying goodbye. Cassie’s mom suffers from early-onset Alzheimer’s. In a survival response, Cassie pushes away her best friend Bailey and isolates herself, not even doing her art. As her Mom becomes more unpredictable like smashing things in anger, forgetting names, or refusing to budge from places, Cassie feels more sad and lonely. Then she has an idea…her mom loves dolphins so what if Cassie could take her to swim with the dolphins before her mom is completely lost to the disease? Beautiful, heartbreaking, and filled with emotion, this is a story worth reading.

Sara and the Search for Normal by Wesley King
ages 9 – 12

Sara wants to be cured of her mental illnesses and be “normal” like other kids so she makes rules for herself. Among other diagnoses, Sara is bipolar for which she blames herself. She hates her out of control brain and feels like nobody can help. Meanwhile, she begins group therapy where she makes a friend; a friend who is covered in hidden bruises. Sara and Erin think of themselves as Star Children, kids alien DNA. It’s profoundly sad to witness Sara’s self-loathing yet her still hoping for a better tomorrow. Sara begins to realize she wants to change her inner dialogue and accept herself. For readers, it’s a valuable opportunity to peek inside Sara’s mind and see how painful it is to have an invisible disease. It won’t make you think like her but will give you compassion.

Trowbridge Road by Marcella Pixley

ages 9 – 12
Heartbreakingly sad, this is a beautiful story of misfit friends set in the 1980s. Both are lost and emotionally abandoned children who become friends when the boy moves to the neighborhood. June Bug’s mom suffers from severe mental disorders including fear of germs since June Bug’s dad died of AIDS. She doesn’t get out of bed, she doesn’t cook, and she’s obsessive about cleanliness. When Ziggy gets dropped off at Grandma’s house because his mom doesn’t want to raise him or see him, he and June Bug become friends and try to survive their lives as well as the bullies in the neighborhood. They show us the power of imagination but their experiences seem so real that at one point, I wondered if the kids were descending into psychosis. Meanwhile, June Bug is starving — there’s no food in the house. She takes care of herself as best she can but she’s scared to tell the truth to anyone. Ziggy’s Nana Jean offers June Bug love, food, and safety. It’s a story that will stay with you and make you feel deeply connected to these survivor kids.

The Startup Squad by Brian Weisfeld and Nicole C. Kear
ages 8 – 12
Resa’s class gets put into groups for a lemonade stand competition and Resa gets paired with her best friend, Didi, and a new girl named Amelia. Unfortunately, Resa demands to be in charge of everything and their communication problems affect how their team is doing in the competition. Even though their team doesn’t win, the girls, especially Resa, learn the importance of teamwork and listening to all ideas. It’s a great book for showing kids about entrepreneurship and communication.

Pax by Sara Pennypacker
ages 8 – 12
I almost couldn’t read this story because I was so sad at the beginning when Peter’s newly enlisted father forces Peter to leave Pax, Peter’s fox he’s raised from a kit, in the woods, then drives Peter 300 miles away to his grandfather’s house to live. I mean, talk about heartbreaking! Peter feels just as awful and sets off, on foot, to find his fox. We also read the story from Pax’s point of view who is so confused but hopes his boy will return. Simultaneously Pax is adopted by a leash of foxes who teach him to survive in the wild and Peter is helped by a grumpy war-veteran hermit. Yes, this is a coming-of-age book but it’s also a commentary on war and the power of friendship.

The Seventh Wish by Kate Messner
ages 8 – 12
One of my favorite books of 2016, The Seventh Wish is a magically captivating coming-of-age story filled with friendship and family challenges and . . . wishes. Charlie is struggling with her sister leaving for college and subsequent problems with drug addiction, her parent’s inattention, and trying to make sense out of her life. So when Charlie accidentally catches a wish fish while ice-fishing, she’s sure that the fish will solve all her problems. Only as we might predict, that’s not exactly what happens. This is a wonderful book — great for book clubs and bedtime readings in order to discuss what happens and why.

Peas and Carrots by Tanita S. Davis
ages 8 – 12
This beautiful story will grab your heart! Dess is a survivor who is reunited with her baby brother in his long-term foster home which Dess helped him get after she called social services on her mother. The foster family loves on both kids but their biological daughter Hope struggles between jealousy and compassion for her new sibling. Just as Dess finally starts to trust her foster family, her mother wants her back. (Oh, and interestingly enough, the foster family is black and Dess is white.) There’s way more to the story of course but you should know that it’s a thought-provoking coming-of-age book about family and hard choices.

The Magic Misfits by Neil Patrick Harris and Alec Azam, illustrated by Lissy Marlin and Kyle Hilton
ages 8 – 12
Carter’s had a rough life, even now after he runs away from his crook of an uncle and lands in a New England town. There he encounters unsavory carnival people who remind him of his uncle. At the town’s magic shop, Carter meets a young girl and her fathers who love magic just like him. He and his new kid friends set out to thwart the carnie’s plot to steal the world’s biggest diamond. And maybe in the process, his luck will turn around. Through the book are ciphers, codes, and tricks giving this already delightful story extra oomph.

The Next Great Jane by K.L. Going
ages 8 – 12
Wow, the pacing just clips along in this interesting small town story filled with science and a passion for writing. Likable Jane lives with her scientist father in a small Maine town and wants to be a writer like Jane Austin. But when her self-centered, actress mom swoops into town asking for custody, Jane gets worried that her life will change for the worse. Meanwhile, a famous writer moves to town with her kids, one of whom becomes Jane’s science partner. It’s a complicated, warm-hearted, and wonderful slice of life story that you won’t want to end.

Raymie Nightingale by Kate DiCamillo
ages 8 – 12
Raymie Nightingale seems to be a book about friendship and loss but it’s also very much about the big questions of who we are as individuals and why we are here on this earth. “She could feel her soul. It was a tiny little spark somewhere deep inside.” Raymie joins two other girls for baton-twirling classes where no baton instruction happens but friendships develop. The characters are unique and well-developed. This is a beautiful, realistic chapter book and would be perfect for lengthy book club discussions.

Eleven and Holding by Mary Penney
ages 8 – 12
This coming-of-age journey has 11-year old Macy longing for her father who is reportedly on a secret project for the government. She’s determined to find him and get him to return home. During this time, she and her best friend, Twee help an older woman who has a missing dog. As both plotlines progress, we learn the truth about the dog and her dad who has PTSD and a drinking problem. This is a sad but powerful story about grief, grace, and life.

Forever or a Long, Long Time by Caela Carter
ages 8 – 12
It’s almost impossible for former foster kids, Flora and Julian, to believe their new home is really a forever home. Not when they’ve had so many broken promises in the past. To help them believe and heal, their adopted mom takes them on a journey to their past foster homes. For answers. And to help them build a strong future. We feel the pain and the trauma as these siblings bravely face their past so they can find their future. Beautiful and haunting.

The Last Fifth Grade of Emerson Elementary by Laura Shovan
ages 8 – 12
The assignment is to write poems that will go in the time capsule when Emerson Elementary is closed. The students have mixed feelings — some are very upset that the school is closing while others aren’t. When the kids learn about protesting, they take their cause to the school board. Not only did I love this story, I really loved that it was written from the students’ unique voices in verse. Shovan does a skillful job writing in each child’s voice so we really get to know each individual. Teachers and parents, you’ll appreciate that the back of the book includes explanations of the different forms of poetry the kids used along with writing prompts. This is a quick read with some interesting topics to discuss.

The Sisters Club by Megan McDonald
ages 8 – 12
Meet the Sisters Club: twelve-year-old Alex, aspiring actress and born drama queen; eight-year-old Joey, homework lover and pioneer wannabe; and smack in the middle, ten-year-old Stevie, the glue that holds them together — through dinner disasters, disputes over stolen lucky sweaters, and Alex’s going gaga over her leading man.

It Ain’t So Awful, Falafel by Firoozeh Dumas
ages 8 – 12
Although it may sound like a heavy book, this is a funny, realistic story about growing up and living in a culture that is not your own. It’s the late 1970s and Zomorod (Cindy) and her family are back in the U.S. from Iran –again. She’s desperate to fit in with the other kids but faces both family pressures and anti-Iranian prejudice.

Goodbye Stranger by Rebecca Stead
ages 10 – 13
WOW. In a word: powerful. This is middle school at it’s most intimate and revealing where friends experience the challenges of growing up, from an embarrassing sexting photo mistake to a shameful friend betrayal, and where we see the power of forgiveness and love. Stead asks the question: why are we here in this world? Realistic and relatable.

Okay for Now by Gary D. Schmidt
ages 8 – 12
This is one of the BEST books I’ve ever read! I felt deeply connected to the main character, Doug, a boy who is struggling to read with no support from his home life — an abusive dad and older brother and abject poverty. What saves Doug is the connection to a librarian who shows him Audubon’s bird paintings and how to draw. Transformative!

Home Home by Lisa Allen-Agostini
ages 13+

Kayla’s moved from Trinidad to Canada with her aunt after a depressive episode and suicide attempt. She’s experiencing debilitating anxiety and self-loathing, making trips to the mall or a restaurant almost impossible. Her aunt and her aunt’s girlfriend are very understanding and patient which makes a huge difference in Kayla’s recovery. In therapy and her journal, she writes about the difficult relationship she has with her mother who wants her to be smart and pretty, not sick. It also helps when she befriends a good-natured boy named Josh who understands depression. His understanding along with her aunts’ acceptance helps Kayla come to terms with her illness. Her story feels honest, relatable, and important.