What are the best middle-grade books of 2018? I've picked my favorite books of the year. Books that transported me to other worlds, made me feel deeply, and inspired me to think about big issues. And these books are so well written, I couldn't put them down. Comment if you've read any of these or you want to share other favorites! If you're curious about other 2018 books, you read the … [Read more...]
11 Ways to Motivate Middle School Students to Read
A teacher recently wrote to me asking how to motivate her middle school students to read more. It's such a relevant question for parents and teachers everywhere. In a time when technology is more alluring than ever and test scores are driving instruction, here are some ways to get our middle grade students excited about reading-- either again or for the first time. And before I launch … [Read more...]
More Recommended NEW Chapter Books, Fall 2018
Ready for more new books? I just love so many of these and hope you check them out to see if your kids and students will, too. Recommended New Chapter Books, Fall 2018 Blended by Sharon Draper REALISTIC / COMING OF AGE / DIVORCE 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 … [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...]
The Best Dystopian Chapter Books for Middle Grade Readers (Ages 9 – 12)
You've probably read a dystopian novel or two in high school. (Remember 1984 and Farenheight 451?) This genre gets kids reading a LOT. Although there are more young adult (YA) dystopian novels than middle-grade, don't worry-- there are many great middle grade choices, too. These are my favorite books to introduce your tween kids (ages 9 - 12) to this addictive genre. The Oxford … [Read more...]
New Mayan Mythology Adventure Chapter Book Giveaway
Disclosure: Disney Book Group is partnering with me for a giveaway! Do you know about Mayan mythology? You will after reading The Storm Runner by J.C. Cervantes published by Rick Riordan Presents, an imprint of Disney Book Group. Learn more about this new fictional book infused with Mayan mythology at ReadRiordan.com. Then, buy The Storm Runner on Amazon AND/OR enter to win a copy (and $100 Visa … [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...]
12 Novels in Verse (That Get Kids Reading)
Have your tween kids tried reading novels in verse, stories written in free verse or prose? The text looks easy to read which often entices reluctant readers but dive deeper and you'll find compelling stories filled with heart, important themes, and precise language. I first fell in love with novels written in verse as an elementary fifth-grade teacher reading Love That Dog by Sharon Creech … [Read more...]
7 Middle-Grade Chapter Books I’m Loving, Summer 2018
As summer wraps up, I wanted to share some of my new favorite middle-grade titles. If you like historical fiction, Lifeboat 12 is a must-read. Artists will love The Frame-Up mystery novel. Fantasy lovers, you don't want to miss the enchanting Willa of the Wood whose beautiful cover is one of my favorite covers EVER. But, there are even more good books on this list. See for … [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...]
Travel the World: Books for Kids About Japan and Japanese Culture
Travel to Japan by reading picture books and chapter books that are set in Japan and show Japanese culture and traditions. Books help kids learn about different countries and their cultures. For me, the book Shogun first got me interested in Japanese culture. I wonder what it will be for your kids? Happy travels! Picture Books About Japanese Culture My First Book of Japanese Words: An … [Read more...]
Historical Fiction Books About The Civil Rights Movement
Whether in the classroom or at home, kids ages 9 - 12 (middle-grade readers) need quality historical fiction chapter books that illuminate our history. In this case, the Civil Rights Movement. These novels contain memorable characters and plots. Although they're fiction, this often helps bring the history to life in a way that kids won't soon forget. Historical Fiction Books About The Civil … [Read more...]