Even younger readers will be able to appreciate Louder Than Hunger’s important perspective on experiences that are not often discussed. John Schu’s middle grade debut has a place as a vital addition to any bookshelf.
Commenting on topics that range from patriarchy to colonialism, the internet to peer pressure, and first loves to heartbreaks, Aida Salazar delivers a fully intersectional look at what it means to try to embody masculinity without toxicity.
Allie Millington winningly blends magic and realism, poignancy and mystery in Olivetti, a heartfelt tale that movingly explores the importance of communication.
Next Stop is an immersive, empathetic tale of an important journey that sensitively explores grief and loss even as it celebrates friendship and new experiences.
Daughters of the Lamp takes readers on a thrilling journey through magical family history and mystery, while sensitively exploring the nature of identity and the age-old struggle between good and evil.
Though The First State of Being takes place at the turn of the millennium, readers will be able to identify with Michael’s anxieties over the future of the world.
Ben Guterson makes excellent use of his trademark ability to create puzzles and conjure clues in this innovative tale that pits clever and intrepid preteens against dark forces, dodgy family secrets and dastardly adults.
JooHee Yoon’s distinct art and Gianni Rodari’s whimsical text combine for a unique, wonder-driven work that will please adults and children alike.
With Amil and the After, Veera Hiranandani presents a powerful, unvarnished examination of difficult subject matter while paving the way forward with hope and love.
Alterations is like the century egg Kevin eats: On the outside, it looks like a story about middle school drama, but once you bite in, you realize the family dynamics are the umami flavor you can’t ignore.
Queen of unique tales that stick with readers for years afterwards, Kate DiCamillo has left an outsized impact in children’s literature with books such as Because of Winn-Dixie and The Tale of Despereaux. But don’t expect the two-time Newbery Medalist to rest on her laurels: She’s back to capture more hearts and minds with Ferris, which follows Ferris Wilkey as she navigates a chaotic summer of raccoons, a wannabe outlaw, a ghost and wildest of all—family.
Gordon Korman has demonstrated a penchant for championing misfits. Slugfest introduces a new group of lovable underdogs in a summer gym class. Yash is his middle school’s most talented jock, which has actually kept him from properly earning his PE credits, so he’s stuck with a bunch of fellow “slugs” in Physical Education Equivalency (PEE) class. Knowing Korman, there’s much more to this mishmash of personalities than what’s apparent on the surface.
Lois Lowry’s Tree. Table. Book. will captivate readers as they reflect on the vagaries of history and the beauty of friendship, which are so poignantly conveyed in this timeless tale.
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