The best 28 Middle Grade books

A Little Princess (1905) is a heartwarming tale capturing the transformative journey of young Sara Crewe, as she navigates adversity with resilience, maintaining her dignity and generosity in the harshest of circumstances.

Charlie and the Chocolate Factory (1964) revolves around a poor boy, Charlie, who, despite his dire circumstances, maintains his moral compass in a world riddled with materialism as he embarks on a magical adventure inside an opulent chocolate factory.

Hey, Kiddo is a graphic memoir that tells the story of the author's unconventional upbringing and his journey to find his place in the world. Through heartfelt illustrations and raw honesty, Krosoczka explores themes of family, addiction, and resilience, offering a powerful and inspiring account of his own life. It's a compelling and deeply personal book that will resonate with readers of all ages.

This novel tells the story of a young girl named Ada who escapes her abusive mother and finds refuge in the English countryside during World War II. Through her journey, Ada learns about love, family, and the power of resilience. It is a heartwarming tale of survival and self-discovery.

The book is a memoir of Laura Ingalls Wilder's childhood as she and her family journey across the American Midwest in the late 1800s. It depicts their struggles and triumphs as they build a new life on the prairie, highlighting the importance of family, resilience, and the pioneer spirit. It is a heartwarming and nostalgic tale that has captivated readers for generations.

This book tells the true story of two pen pals, Caitlin and Martin, who form an unlikely friendship through letters. As they exchange letters, they learn about each other's lives and develop a deep bond. The book highlights the power of friendship, kindness, and the impact of reaching out to someone in need. It is a heartwarming and inspiring tale of connection and the difference one person can make in another's life.

In a world where storytelling is forbidden, a young girl named Petra discovers she is the last remaining cuentista, a magical storyteller. As she embarks on a dangerous journey to save her family and preserve the power of storytelling, she uncovers long-buried secrets and learns the true importance of keeping the ancient tales alive. "The Last Cuentista" is a captivating blend of fantasy and Mexican folklore that celebrates the power of storytelling and the resilience of the human spirit.

The Magician's Nephew is a fantasy novel by C. S. Lewis that serves as a prequel to the beloved Chronicles of Narnia series. It tells the story of two children, Digory and Polly, who stumble upon a magical world and witness the creation of Narnia by the powerful lion, Aslan. Filled with adventure, enchantment, and moral lessons, the book explores themes of good versus evil and the consequences of one's actions. It is a captivating tale that will transport readers to a world of wonder and imagination.

The One and Only Ivan is a heartwarming novel about a silverback gorilla named Ivan who lives in a shopping mall. Through Ivan's unique perspective, the book explores themes of friendship, freedom, and the power of imagination. It is a touching story that will make you rethink the way we treat animals and the importance of empathy.

The Wind in the Willows is a classic children's novel that follows the adventures of anthropomorphic animals, including Mole, Rat, and Toad. Set in the English countryside, the story explores themes of friendship, loyalty, and the joy of simple pleasures. With its charming characters and beautifully descriptive prose, this book has captivated readers of all ages for over a century.

Chains is a historical novel that follows the story of a young slave girl named Isabel during the American Revolutionary War. Set in New York City in 1776, the book explores themes of freedom, loyalty, and the fight for independence. As Isabel navigates the challenges of being owned by a cruel Loyalist family, she becomes entangled in the dangerous world of espionage and must make difficult choices to secure her own freedom. It is a gripping and thought-provoking tale of resilience and determination.

The Phantom Tollbooth is a whimsical and imaginative children's book that follows the adventures of a young boy named Milo. After receiving a mysterious tollbooth, Milo embarks on a journey to the Kingdom of Wisdom, where he encounters a variety of quirky characters and learns valuable lessons about the importance of curiosity, learning, and the power of words. This delightful tale is filled with wordplay, puns, and clever observations about the world around us.

Prisoner B-3087 is a gripping novel based on the true story of Jack Gruener, a Jewish boy who survives the horrors of the Holocaust. Written by Alan Gratz, the book chronicles Jack's experiences as he is taken from his home in Poland to various concentration camps, including Auschwitz. Despite the unimaginable hardships he faces, Jack's determination and resilience shine through as he fights for survival and ultimately, freedom. This powerful and heartbreaking story serves as a reminder of the atrocities of the Holocaust and the strength of the human spirit.

This graphic novel tells the true story of Omar and his younger brother Hassan, who are refugees living in a camp in Kenya. It explores their daily struggles and dreams as they navigate life without their parents and search for a better future. A heartwarming and inspiring tale of resilience and the power of family.

A heartwarming and insightful novel that explores the bond between humans and their canine companions. Through the eyes of a dog named Bailey, the book delves into the meaning of life, love, and loyalty as he is reincarnated into different dog breeds and forms deep connections with various owners. A Dog's Purpose is a touching story that will make you appreciate the special role dogs play in our lives.

This non-fiction book tells the gripping story of the 12-day manhunt for John Wilkes Booth, the assassin of President Abraham Lincoln. Through meticulous research and vivid storytelling, Swanson brings to life the events surrounding Lincoln's assassination and the pursuit of his killer. It offers a fascinating and detailed account of a pivotal moment in American history.

Before the Ever After is a poignant novel that explores the impact of chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) on a family. Told from the perspective of a young boy whose father is a former NFL player suffering from the effects of CTE, the book delves into themes of love, loss, and the power of family bonds. It offers a heartfelt portrayal of the challenges faced by those living with the long-term consequences of sports-related brain injuries.

Before We Were Free is a historical novel that takes place in the Dominican Republic during the dictatorship of Rafael Trujillo. The story follows a young girl named Anita as she navigates the political turmoil and personal challenges of living under a repressive regime. Through Anita's perspective, the novel explores themes of freedom, resistance, and the power of hope in the face of adversity. It is a compelling and thought-provoking read that sheds light on a lesser-known period of history.

Bridge to Terabithia is a heartwarming and bittersweet story about the friendship between two young outcasts, Jess and Leslie. Together, they create an imaginary kingdom in the woods called Terabithia, where they can escape the challenges of their everyday lives. This novel explores themes of friendship, imagination, and the power of love and loss. It is a beautiful and poignant tale that will stay with readers long after they finish the last page.

Anne of Green Gables is a classic novel that tells the story of an imaginative and spirited orphan named Anne Shirley. Set in the picturesque Prince Edward Island, the book follows Anne as she is adopted by an elderly brother and sister and brings joy and chaos into their lives. Full of heartwarming moments and unforgettable characters, this coming-of-age tale explores themes of friendship, family, and the power of imagination.

This beloved children's novel tells the story of a pig named Wilbur and his friendship with a clever spider named Charlotte. Through their adventures on the farm, they teach readers about the power of friendship, loyalty, and the circle of life. It's a heartwarming tale that has captivated readers of all ages for generations.

The BFG (short for "Big Friendly Giant") is a children's book by Roald Dahl. It tells the story of a young girl named Sophie who befriends a kind-hearted giant. Together, they embark on an adventure to stop the other, not-so-friendly giants from eating children. With its whimsical storytelling and imaginative characters, The BFG is a beloved classic that celebrates friendship and bravery.

A classic children's novel, "James and the Giant Peach" tells the story of a young boy named James who embarks on a magical adventure inside a giant peach with a group of insect friends. Filled with imagination and wonder, the book explores themes of friendship, bravery, and the power of dreams. It's a delightful tale that captures the hearts of readers of all ages.

The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe is a classic fantasy novel that tells the story of four siblings who discover a magical wardrobe that leads them to the land of Narnia. There, they embark on an epic adventure to help Aslan, the rightful king of Narnia, overthrow the evil White Witch and bring peace to the enchanted land. Filled with themes of bravery, loyalty, and the triumph of good over evil, this timeless tale captivates readers of all ages.

This book tells the fascinating story of Benedict Arnold, a once-revered American Revolutionary War general who ultimately betrayed his country. Through meticulous research and engaging storytelling, Sheinkin explores Arnold's complex motivations and the events that led to his infamous act of treason. It offers a compelling look at one of the most notorious figures in American history.

Before the Ever After by Jacqueline Woodson is a poignant novel that delves into the impact of chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) on a family. Through the eyes of a young boy named ZJ, the book explores themes of love, resilience, and the harsh realities of life after the glory days. It is a beautifully written and heart-wrenching story that sheds light on an important issue in the world of sports.

I Will Always Write Back tells the incredible true story of two pen pals, Caitlin and Martin, who form an unlikely friendship that transcends continents and changes their lives forever. Through their letters, they share their hopes, dreams, and struggles, ultimately proving that kindness and compassion can make a world of difference.

When Stars are Scattered is a powerful and heart-wrenching graphic novel that tells the story of Omar and his younger brother Hassan, who are living in a refugee camp in Kenya. Written by Victoria Jamieson and Omar Mohamed, this book sheds light on the struggles and resilience of refugees, as well as the importance of family and hope. It is a must-read for all ages.