In this story, a brave fourth grader takes on her school and some overreaching parents to preserve the books that she loves so dearly. In Ban This Book, Alan Gratz helps young people understand both the reasons and the dangers behind what is, frankly, happening in schools today.
Author: AuthorMeganCox
Frankie & Amelia
I have a confession to make. I have fallen in love with cats. Well, my cat, in particular. Well, my daughter’s cat, actually. So, when I started reading McGovern’s middle grade novel written from a cat’s perspective, I loved the way she captured the characteristics of a feline.
Brave Like That
I first heard chatter about this MG novel on Twitter, and the comments from the readers were so positive and forceful (YOU MUST READ THIS) that I decided, okay. This is such a great story on so many levels. First of all, I think most children face a moment when they want to tell their parents, “This isn’t me.”
Admission: A Novel
This novel, which was inspired by the college admission scandal that put two famous actresses in jail (not for long, but they did serve time), really captures so much beyond the intrigue of that scandal. Life’s not fair, and the college admissions process is not a perfect one.
Indian No More
In this middle grade novel, Indian No More, we learn just how devastating a situation could be when the American government suddenly decides to no longer recognize a tribe. This tale of both heartbreak and resilience will educate a whole new generation of young people, even as Regina captivates the audience with her story, which is inspired by the author’s own experience.
Rescue Princesses
The Rescue Princesses combines the love of animals with the fantasy of being a princess. The series also emphasizes friendship, courage, and diversity–perfect for little girls (and hey, even boys) navigating the social structure of elementary school.
Six of Crows
Kaz and his crew (including the brave Inej and charming Jesper) offer some of the most entertaining segments in the Shadow & Bone series, and Six of Crows, although it takes a moment to wade into it, delivers this fascinating trio (and then some) right to its pages. It’s a little grittier than Shadow, but this unpredictable cast will keep you reading for sure.
Front Desk
I highly recommend this story as something that will encourage you to think about what the American dream means, and how we can all take tough moments in our lives to overcome the biggest hurdles.
That’s Not What Happened
I came across this young adult novel while searching for thrillers. So when I started reading it, I was surprised at the plot. However, although this deals with one of our society’s greatest tragedies–school shootings–this story was urgent and moving.
The Witch of Blackbird Pond
This story takes place in New England, just a few years before the Salem witch trials in 1692. Katherine, better known as Kit, must leave Barbados to live with her relatives, residents of a Puritan town. Kit’s ways are not well-received by the Puritans, and this causes some trouble for her.
Night of the Amber Moon
Both creepy and heartwarming, Night of the Amber Moon tells the story of 11-year-old Izzy, a girl with a hard problem. A story of dealing with guilt, the story leads readers on a journey to forgiveness, with just the right amount of suspense.
Dark and Shallow Lies
If you like mystery and intrigue with a side of psychic powers and magic, then this book truly is for you. Being able to twist the story around and around, until the reader feels desperate to get to the final pages, is truly an art, and this story does that and more.