The Latest Chapter Books for Kids Ages 6 to 12

Don’t miss even more middle grade books in my new master book lists by age! Middle grade books are for kids ages 8 – 12.

Books for 7-year olds
Books for 8-year olds
Books for 9-year olds
Books for 10-year olds
Books for 11-year olds
Books for 12-year olds

The Ninja Librarians The Accidental Keyhand by Jen Swann Downey (ages 7-10)

Dorrie and her brother accidentally leave their public library festival and are transported into a library of all libraries, Petrarch’s Library – one that allows you to access many points in time. I found the pacing to be a bit slow but that the plot was interesting, especially if you are a bookie.

The Whodunit Detective Agency The Diamond Mystery by Martin Widmark, illustrated by Helena Willis (beginning chapter book (ages 6 – 8)

Friends and kid detectives, Jerry and Maya, go undercover in a jewelry store to figure out which of the three employees is stealing diamonds from the owner. It’s puzzling since all the employees are searched before they can leave the store. How are the diamonds going missing and who is taking them? This is a well-written adventure with good pacing and enjoyable characters.

The Chicken Squad The First Misadventure by Doreen Cronin illustrated by Kevin Cornell – beginning chapter book (ages 6 – 8)

So funny! Four chick siblings determine to solve the mystery of squirrel’s HUGE, TERRIFYING, ENORMOUS, FRIGHTENING thing in the yard, even teaching squirrel the names of shapes so he can tell the chicks that the thing is a round and shiny. And we all know what that is . . .

Benji Franklin Kid Zillionaire by Raymond Bean (ages 6- 9)

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 astroid will collide with the Earth. I really like that he has a close relationship with his mom and dad, too.

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, she 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?

The Vanishing Coin (Magic Shop Series) by Kate Egan and Mike Lane, illustrated by Eric Wight (ages 7 – 9) beginning chapter book

Kids like fourth-grader Mike who can’t sit still will relate to Mike’s struggles with getting work done, avoiding the school bully, and staying out of trouble. It’s such a great story because Mike discovers something that he IS good at – magic. And, you’ll learn how to do the tricks as you read the book. Well-written with fantastic illustrations by my good friend, Eric Wight. Look for the next book in the series out now called The Incredible Twisting Arm.

Sam Silver Undercover Pirate by Jan Burchett & Sara Vogler – beginning chapter book (ages 6 – 8)

I wanted to read this to see if it was a good series to recommend – and I really liked it. Sam’s adventures on the pirate ship of his ancestors are action-packed and entertaining. It’s a series with lots of books!

Monster Juice by M.D. Payne (ages 7-10) –beginning chapter book (ages 6 – 8)

Here’s another chapter book series that’s entertaining and funny – perfect for anyone who likes anything gross and with monsters. I read Fear the Barfitron and thought it was great.

Diary of a Girl Next Door: Betty by Tania del Rio & Bill Galvan (ages 8 – 12)

I haven’t read this chapter book but both my girls liked it.This is about Betty of Archie Comics.

School for  S.P.I.E.S. Playing with Fire book 1 by Bruce Hale, illustrated by Brandon Dorman (ages 8 – 12)
When Max gets kicked out of another foster home, he’s sent to an Orphanage which is actually a training school for spies. Great action and plotting will hook you right away. I enjoyed this book and am glad the 2nd book is already out.

ALSO READ:
Middle Grade Books for Ages 8 – 12
Best New Chapter Books, Fall 2014

Follow me on Facebook and Pinterest for more book ideas.