In a strange coincidence, these five early 2019 middle-grade novels share a common thread -- they'll probably be the most beautiful, tender, and emotional stories you'll read all year. Or even for many years. Not only that, all five of these books include a main character with special needs -- intellectual differences as well as physical. Which is incredible and adds a rich depth to each book. … [Read more...]
14 New Picture Books, Late Fall 2018
I'm happy to share with you 14 more newly published picture books. Also, don't miss my other recent picture book lists that I grouped into the categories of friendship and bedtime. Some really good read aloud choices!! By the way, did you see when I shared P is for Pterodactyl on Instagram and Facebook? It's gone crazy viral on FB. It's on this list, too! :) New Picture Books A … [Read more...]
10 Favorite Spooky Chapter Books for Middle Grade Readers
written by Kathie MacIsaac, librarian and middle-grade book lover (full bio below) Do you like to read a book that makes you pull the covers a little tighter around you? Do you enjoy a story that gives you goosebumps, or requires you to sleep with the light on? Many kids love scary stories with ghosts and supernatural forces, but I also like a dark and emotional tale that tugs at my … [Read more...]
Hook Tweens on Magical Realism with These Incredible Books
Magical realism books aren't like fantasy -- there are no magicians or magical creatures -- this is a genre of realistic stories containing just a little bit of magic. Like the story of a girl on a farm with chickens who have powers. Or a tree in an orchard who grows things that the child most needs. I fell in love with magical realism in college when I read Isabel Allende's House of … [Read more...]
11 Must-Read Middle Grade Books of Fall 2018
Want to know about the best new middle grade books? These will draw in tween readers with their compelling characters, important themes, and emotionally resonating stories. 11 Must-Read Middle Grade Books of Fall 2018 Sweep by Jonathan Auxier HISTORICAL FICTION / MAGICAL REALISM Set in Victorian London, this is a beautiful, bittersweet story about a plucky girl and her protector … [Read more...]
8 New Middle-Grade Books, July 2018
If you're looking for new middle-grade books for your kids or students, these eight won't disappoint. I particularly want to highlight The Rhino in Right Field, The Adventures of a Girl Called Bicycle and The Jigsaw Jungle. But all the books on this list are great! 8 New Middle-Grade Books, July 2018 The Rhino In Right Field by Stacy DeKeyser HISTORICAL FICTION I loved this … [Read more...]
7 New Middle Grade Books You Should Know About
I'm excited to share these 7 titles with you -- for your kids, students, and you. Ghost Boys and Captain Superlative both are incredibly thought-provoking. Bob, The Endling, and The Lost Books are well-written, can't-put-em-down fantasy stories. Hardscrabble is a fascinating historical slice-of-life look at life in sod houses around the turn of the century. I think you may just find your next book … [Read more...]
Recommended Books for Kids About Families with Divorced Parents
Are you looking for recommended books that show families with divorced parents? Children's books with divorced parents (picture and chapter books) help kids know that other kids experience similar family situations as them. Bibliotherapy! This is a good thing. And I have lots of books to recommend... Recommended Picture Books About Divorce Thee picture books show your children what it can be … [Read more...]
Noteworthy Fall 2017 Picture Books
Talk about a noteworthy list of fall 2017 picture books for children! Teachers and parents, you'll want to look through these new titles carefully. Many will be useful in the classroom while others are perfect for reading at home. As always, I've picked the best of the bunch to share with you today. Noteworthy Fall 2017 Picture Books Betty's Burgled Bakery An Alliteration Adventure by … [Read more...]
7 Beginning Chapter Books, Fall 2017
Calling all readers ages 6 to 9 who are transitioning to chapter books! Here are seven new beginning chapter books you'll want to peruse. See if the descriptions sound like something you'd like. Then off you go. 7 Beginning Chapter Books for Fall 2017 Ada Lace is On the Case by Emily Calandrelli with Tamson Weston, illustrated by Renee Kurilla MYSTERY / STEM Ada moves to a new … [Read more...]
What’s New in Fantasy Books for Ages 8 – 12 (Fall 2017)
I'm so excited to share with you the new fantasy middle grade books for children ages 8 - 12! If you're like me and love this genre, you're going to be thrilled with so many fantastic new titles. What's New in Fantasy Books for Ages 8 - 12 The Wonderling by Mira Bartók This beautiful, heart-warming story is one of my favorite books of 2017. The story begins at an orphanage of … [Read more...]
6 Fantasy and Science Fiction Books, Winter 2017
Check out what new in middle grade fantasy and science fiction books this winter (2017)! If I had to pick a favorite, it would be the Metropolitans. Which would your readers enjoy best? 6 Fantasy and Science Fiction Books, Winter 2017 If the Magic Fits (100 Dresses) by Susan Maupin Schmid FANTASY (ages 8 - 12) Darling Dimple is thrilled to be moved from a kitchen scrubber to an upstairs … [Read more...]