Our best recommendations of middle grade and upper middle grade books for 11-year-olds, across a wide range of genres, fiction and nonfiction.
11-year-olds have a lot of distractions competing for their attention. There's school, friendships, parents who expect more responsibility, not to mention social media and electronic devices. So how do you find good books for 11-year-olds that will hold their interest?
We've searched and read our way through a wide variety of genres like mysteries, realistic coming of age stories, historical fiction and more to find the most compelling books in the middle grade reading level to entice your 11-year-old, (typically 6th or 7th graders) to keep reading!
Note: this list contains Amazon and Bookshop affiliate links. Purchases made through these links may earn a commission for this blog. Bookshop also supports independent bookstores.
Table of contents
Funny
These funny books for 11-year-olds cover several genres, but the one thing they have in common is that they will make tweens laugh-out-loud! But not to worry, there is plenty more humor in the other genre sections, too.
Ungifted (series) by Gordon Korman
Middle school prankster, Donovan Curtis, is accidentally sent to a school for gifted and talented students. He's a bit of a fish out of water, and multiple narrative points of view offer readers an amusing perspective on Donovan's academic journey. His science class builds a robot (I love The Wizard of Oz references!) and it just so happens that all his time spent playing video games provides the exact skill his class needs to win a competition.
Mexikid by Pedro Martín
Pedro Martín's graphic novel memoir about a 1970s family road trip to Mexico is a delight! One of nine children, Pedro has grown up hearing stories about his revolutionary-hero grandfather and now his whole family is headed to Jalisco to bring Abuelito back to California. You can imagine the hilarious antics all those kids in a Winnebago get up to. Pure joy. Also available in Spanish.
MORE: Graphic Novels for 4th-8th Grade
Goose Chase by Patrice Kindl
Goose Chase, with elements of "Rapunzel," "Diamonds and Toads," "The Wild Swans," and other fairy stories, is so delightfully hilarious, with the most charming heroine ever! After she shows an old woman kindness, the woman bestows three gifts on the goose girl, Alexandria Aurora Fortunato. Those gifts, coupled with her beauty, make her the marriage target of royalty. Alexandria finds this all so annoying, but the reader will find her adventures hilarious.
This Is Just a Test by Madelyn Rosenberg and Wendy Wan-Long Shang
I loved this book! It's the early 1980s (does it alarm you, too, that the 80s are now considered "historical fiction"?) and David is prepping for his bar mitzvah. His two grandmothers, one Jewish and one Chinese, are not making things easy for him with their constant bickering over whether David's Jewish or Chinese heritage should take precedence. On top of that, David and his friend are secretly building a fallout shelter, inspired by the movie, The Day After. Kids will love the humor, David's character, and the 1980s setting adds an interesting layer without becoming too remote for a contemporary audience.
Al Capone Does My Shirts by Gennifer Choldenko
The year is 1935 and 12-year-old Moose and his family move to Alcatraz after his father gets a job there. Moose’s older sister is autistic and their mother attempts to get her into a special school while Moose gets wrapped up with crazy money-making schemes dreamed up by the warden’s daughter. This is fast-paced, realistic fiction that has big heart and big humor. Also available in Spanish.
Stand Up, Yumi Chung! by Jessica Kim
Yumi Chung's family owns a Korean restaurant but times are tough and the only way Yumi can continue attending private school is to earn a scholarship. Her parents sign her up with a tutor but Yumi longs to hone her stand-up comedy instead. When an identity mix up lands Yumi in comedy camp, she gets twisted up in a pretzel of deception (yes, I made that terrible metaphor up myself). This is an entertaining story of a girl learning to speak up for herself, engaging in creative problem solving and figuring out exactly what she wants. Highly recommended!
Fuzzy by Tom Angleberger and Paul Dellinger
In this funny science fiction book for tweens, seventh grader Maxine loves robots and is super excited that her school is about to get the first robot student as part of the Robot Integration Program. Teachers and principal are already robots and Max needs to figure out why her grades are mysteriously declining, despite her diligent studying. Together, with Fuzzy the robot student, she discovers an evil evaluation system run by none other than the principal!
Funny Girl: Funniest. Stories. Ever. edited by Betsy Bird
These short stories by female authors are hilarious. For. Real. Readers will recognize many of the authors' names: Lisa Graff, Raina Telgemeier, Cece Bell, Libby Bray–to name just a few. The topics range from grandmothers to puberty. And, guess what, boys can read these funny stories about girls, too.
MORE: Funny Middle Grade Books
Fantasy and Adventure
Highly imaginative books set in fantasy worlds that 11-year-olds will love! These are good choices for kids who loved Percy Jackson.
The Demon Sword Asperides by Sarah Jean Horwitz
Third person narration alternates among several viewpoints, one being the thoughts and snarky humor of the sword itself! The demon sword, Asperides, has been hoping to spend the rest of eternity in retirement, but is called to present itself to the hopeful knight, Nack. Nack is trying to win back the respect of his family and sees the sword, which he believes to be an angel blade, as his salvation. Asperides has his own agenda, not least of which is thwarting the mission of an evil, undead villain who just happens to be his former master. A gripping and magical adventure.
The Dragon with a Chocolate Heart (series) by Stephanie Burgis
When Adventurine the dragon is turned into a human girl with a taste for chocolate she decides to head towards the human village to try and prove her worth. A heartwarming, thrilling book.
Starcross: A Stirring Adventure of Spies, Time Travel and Curious Hats by Philip Reeve
Find it: Your Library | Amazon
Reeve is a master at science fiction and time travel stories. I didn't realize this is the sequel to Larklight when I picked it up so I guess perhaps your kids should start with that one. In any case, this is an incredibly imaginative and not-infrequently amusing fantasy book. The Mumbys (mom and kids, Art and Myrtle) travel to Starcross, a seaside resort where a strange hatter tries to control their minds with his evil headwear. Sound crazy? Oh, it is. Crazy. And wonderful.
The After-Room (The Apothecary Series) by Maile Meloy
The action is set in 1952 against the backdrop of the cold war. In London, 14-year-old Janie befriends Benjamin, the son of a mysterious apothecary. Benjamin wants to be a spy and enlists Janie in his efforts. When his father disappears, Janie and Benjamin get caught up in a plot involving a magical book called the Pharmacopoeia, spells which allow humans to turn into birds, Russian spies, and unbelievable potions. I couldn't put it down!
A Wrinkle in Time (Time Quintet series) by Madeline L'Engle
This classic series hardly needs an introduction. Meg Murry's father has gone missing so she, her brother Charles Wallace, and a friend, Calvin O'Keefe, go on an incredible journey through space and time in hopes of rescuing him.
The Golden Compass (His Dark Materials Trilogy) by Philip Pullman
Two kids, Lyra and Will, cross parallel universes in a world where their souls (for lack of a better word) exist outside of their bodies as animal companions. A true modern classic.
Hamra and the Jungle of Memories by Hanna Alkaf
Set in Malaysia during pandemic lockdown, Alkaf's engaging story follows the fortunes of 13-year-old Hamra. Hamra is at home, looking after her grandparents while her father works for an aid organization. Her grandmother has been starting to wander and have trouble with her memory and Hamra hopes a special fruit from the Langkawi jungle will help. When she picks the fruit, she angers the weretiger and must enter into a bargain that takes her on a difficult physical and emotional journey.
Peter and the Starcatchers (series) by Dave Berry and Ridley Pearson
My son's teacher started reading this aloud to the class and we finished it up at home after school let out. It is a prequel to Barrie's Peter Pan books and stage play, although the world building is not meant to be exactly aligned with the original. Orphaned boys, pirates, treasure, an isolated island and a ship called Never Land set the scene for how Peter became Pan. Side note: the Broadway production of play was amazing.
The Marvels by Brian Selznick
The first 400 (!) pages of this book tells the tale of multi-generational theater family in gorgeous black and white illustrations. The second half is written as a traditional novel. (This two-part format is Selznick's signature style.) Young Joseph runs away from a boarding school in search of his uncle, Albert. Albert lives alone in London, in a house that is full of questions and mysteries. Selznick masterfully weaves in connections from the visual half of the book to the text, as well as puzzling clues, twists and turns.
Magical Realism
Magical realism is my favorite genre. Everything seems like it could happen in everyday life, but there is also something magical lurking on the edges.
Echo by Pam Muñoz Ryan
This masterful novel is told in several parts that cross historical and cultural boundaries. A single harmonica is the thread that binds three narratives about children in trouble. Friedrich dreams of being a conductor, but lives in Hitler's Germany. Mike Flannery is an orphan in Depression Era Pennsylvania and Ivy Lopez's family works as migrant laborers. Music is such an integral part of the story, so I also recommend the audiobook format which is absolutely stellar. Also available in Spanish.
The Storyteller by Brandon Hobson
Ziggy Echota's mother disappeared ten years ago. A Cherokee living in New Mexico, Ziggy is convinced that Nunnehi, cave-dwelling trickster spirits, will be able to help him discover what happened to her. Along with his sister, Moon, and friends Alice and Corso, Ziggy sets out on a quest in which they encounter different magical spirits, learning lessons from each. Fantastic and fantastical.
All the Answers by Kate Messner
Ava finds an old blue pencil, and while taking a math test, she discovers that the pencil can answer any factual question posed to it. Ava then harnesses the power of the pencil (which turns out to be imbued with her grandmother's spirit) to help her grandfather and her mother. My son declared this book, "very interesting."
The Crowfield Curse (series) by Pat Walsh
Find it: Your Library | Amazon
This is a great choice for kids who like an extra dose of magic in their gothic stories. Set in the 14th century, The Crowfield's Curse tell's the story of Will, an orphan who mysteriously survived a fire that killed the rest of his family. He now lives and works at the Crowfield Abbey, performing menial tasks in exchange for room and board. One afternoon in the woods he rescues a hob from a steel trap. He then learns the secret of the Abbey–decades ago an angel was shot down and buried on the grounds. Now a mysterious duo is searching for the angel, revealing secrets and magic.
When You Reach Me by Rebecca Stead
Stead's book is a Newbery Medal winner. It's also a super cool book with an amazing "Wow!" ending. After an incident in which her best friend stops speaking to her, Miranda starts getting mysterious letters asking for her help. Miranda tries to interpret the letters and discusses time travel with another boy, Marcus. Part mystery, part sci-fi, part coming of age novel, this book is not to be missed.
The Graveyard Book by Neil Gaiman
This is a wonderful, beautifully written book, bittersweet and magical. Nobody Owens, or Bod as he is known, was supposed to be murdered the night his parents were. But as a toddler, he managed to escape. Now he lives in the graveyard where he is raised by ghosts. The narrative is formatted into small, episodic stories and makes a great read aloud, especially when the wind is whistling and the leaves are swirling.
MORE: Classic and Contemporary Science Fictions for Middle Grade
Mystery, Heists and Spies
Who doesn't love a good whodunnit? These are great choices for readers who love Sherlock Holmes or girl detectives like Enola Holmes.
Scar Island by Dan Gemeinhart
Scar Island will remind readers of Lord of the Flies, only with a less disturbing outcome. When a freak (and I mean freak!) accident leaves all the adults of Slabhenge Reformatory School for Troubled Boys dead, the boys look forward to finally getting away from the wretched place of misery. But some of the boys decide they would prefer a few days alone on the island before coming under the thumb of adults again. As you can imagine, things go awry in the power vacuum, and secrets previously kept hidden are revealed. It is a very compelling read and your child will have a hard time putting it down.
Charlie Thorne and the Last Equation (series) by Stuart Gibbs
Charlie Thorne is the world's youngest math and physics genius-thief. If that premise doesn't shout, "Page-turner!" I don't know what does. The CIA wants to prevent the evil group, the Furies, from getting their hands on a secret Einstein equation. They enlist Charlie in their mission, which takes her on a whirlwind, heart-pounding adventure.
Murder is Bad Manners (series) by Robin Stevens
In a 1930s British boarding school, the extrovert English rose Daisy Wells and the introvert Hazel Wong, who has recently transferred from Hong Kong, are on the hunt for a mystery to solve. When they come across the body of their science teacher, they are determined to smoke out the murderer. The relationship between the two girl detectives is delightful and real. This book has a classic murder mystery feel to it, with plenty of surprises for both the characters and the reader. Jolly good fun.
Greenglass House (series) by Kate Milford
Milo lives with his adoptive parents in a strange and mysterious smugglers' inn. During the holiday break, a series of guests arrive, all with a secret connection to the inn. The adventure begins when Milo finds a curious map and things begin to go missing. He and his friend, Maddy, are determined to find the culprit behind the thefts and start to unravel the mystery tied to the house and its guests.
The Book Scavenger (series) by Jennifer Chambliss Bertman
Emily's family never stays in one place for long, and now they are moving to San Francisco. 12-year-old-Emily is a follower of Garrison Griswold, the creator of "Book Scavenger," an adventure challenge in which kids solve clues to locate hidden books. But now, after being attacked, Griswold is in the hospital and Emily, along with her neighbor James, believe they have come into possession of a mysterious book which is the beginning of a new game, bigger and more mysterious than Book Scavenger.
MORE: Middle Grade Books with Puzzling Mysteries
The Ghost of Midnight Lake by Lucy Strange
There's the huge English estate, the death of a father that reveals a secret paternity, an evil cousin, a missing priceless family heirloom known as the "Queen's Stone," a blind midwife who holds the secret, and of course the wonderful, eerie atmosphere. When 12-year-old Agatha's father dies, she is booted from the Gosswater estate and sent to live with her newly revealed biological father who is a farmer and stonemason. Agatha is determined to find out the truth about her family history with the help of her friend, Bryn. Full of suspense and intrigue! (Known as The Ghost of Gosswater in the UK)
MORE: Dark and Stormy Gothic Children's Novels
The Scandalous Sisterhood of Prickwillow Place by Julie Berry
I loved this splendidly wicked book. I listened to the audiobook narration of this twist on the Victorian boarding school mystery novel, and it was glorious. I didn't know what to expect and when in the first few pages, the headmistress and her brother drop dead from poison, and the girls subsequently decide to bury them instead of report it, I thought, "how macabre!" The girls, who have wonderful monikers like "Smooth Kitty," "Disgraceful Mary Jane," and "Stout Alice," decide to try and convince everyone that their headmistress is still alive so they can avoid being sent home. Author Berry is a smart, clever storyteller with a sharp wit. Great for readers who like Roald Dahl.
I, Q (series) by Roland Smith
While on a music tour with his new, blended family, 13-year-old Quest is sucked into a world full of suspicions, bumbling agents, and secret identities. Quest uses his magician and tech skills to find out the truth and foil evil plots.
Icefall by Matthew J. Kirby
Solveig and her brothers, along with berserkers set to protect them, wait anxiously through the winter, trapped in a fortress near snowy mountains and the frozen sea. While they wait for word from their father the king, it slowly becomes clear that someone amongst them is a traitor, but who? This is a thrilling mystery for kids who like stories that keep them perched on the edge of their chair in tense anticipation.
Realistic Fiction
These are great books for 11-year-old readers who enjoy coming of age stories, tales of school life and frienship.
How to Stay Invisible by Maggy C. Rudd
This is an excellent choice for readers who enjoy survival stories like Hatchet. After his parents abandon him, 12-year-old Raymond heads to the woods, where he uses a hollowed out tree for shelter. Living alone with his dog, Raymond fishes and dumpster-dives for food and continues going to school. He keeps his secret from his new friends, the talkative Harlin, and an older man, Stigs, who has a sad history of his own. A compelling narrative and emotionally tense story that readers won't be able to put down.
Code Red by Joy McCullough
McCullough tackles the issue of period equity with an inclusive cast of characters. Due to an injury, Eden had to quit elite gymnastics and feels adrift. She and her friend Maribel hang out after school, helping at a food bank, where Eden learns about "period poverty." She starts helping out by sewing reusable pads, but getting involved in advocacy doesn't shield her from normal tween-age dilemmas like changing friendships and parental relationships.
Mascot by Charles Waters & Traci Sorrell
Callie, who is African-American and a Cherokee citizen, is paired with classmate Franklin, who is Black, to work on an assignment that debates the “Pros and Cons of Indigenous Peoples as Mascots.” Callie is deeply disgusted by the school's racist mascot, but Franklin feels differently. The story is told from seven different perspectives, written in verse and free of judgement, allowing readers to consider all points. This would be an excellent book for use in a classroom.
Sorry for Your Loss by Joanne Levy
12-year-old Evie's parents run a Jewish funeral home. Some kids might be freaked out by this, but Evie thinks it's fascinating and is looking forward to taking over the family business one day. Then she meets Oren, a boy new to the area whose parents have recently been killed in a car accident. Oren is now living with his uncle and hasn't spoken a word since the accident. Evie has always admired the way her parents nurture their clients in their grieving moments and she is determined to help Oren. The two of them get off to a rocky start but eventually become friends and Oren even helps Evie stand up to her school bullies. Levy's book may deal with grief, but it is not depressing and she masterfully weaves Jewish cultural and funeral traditions into the narrative.
Booked by Kwame Alexander
Alexander is a master of the verse novel. 12-year-old Nick is navigating the usual middle school drama; he is looking forward to a soccer tournament, trying to figure out how to talk to a girl, and dealing with his parents' separation. During his journey he learns to love books, and discovers that maybe his father's love of words isn't so bad after all.
Return to Sender by Julia Alvarez
11-year-old Tyler’s Vermont family farm in trouble and in order to make ends meet they hire a family of undocumented workers. One of the girls is Tyler’s age and the two become friends, learning from each other. The is a wonderful book that addresses what it means to have compassion for others, the meaning of family and what it means to be honest. The narration alternates between Tyler’s perspective and letters written by Mari.
The Secret Sheriff of Sixth Grade by Jordan Sonnenblick
Maverick carries a sheriff's badge with him, a gift from his father who died in Afghanistan. He hopes it will help him to be courageous and stand up to bullies, making school a better place for everyone. His mother's boyfriends are abusive and alcoholic and Maverick is not always perfect himself. Sonnenblick has created relatable characters, written in laugh-out-loud humor and given the story a huge amount of heart. Highly recommended.
Boy, Everywhere by A. M. Dassu
After Sami's mother and sister are injured in an explosion at the mall, his family decides to flee Syria and travel to England. The journey is difficult and dangerous and once they reach England, his father requests asylum at the border. The family is then separated and detained by the authorities while they work to present their case. Moving, eye-opening and hopeful.
MORE: Neurodiversity in Middle Grade Books
The Kaya Girl by Mamle Wolo
Abena leaves her upper class home to spend the summer with her Aunt Lydia, who runs a fabric and sundries shop in a bustling market in downtown Accra, Ghana. Abena meets Faiza, a migrant Muslim girl who works as a kayayoo, or porter, carrying purchased goods in a bucket on her head for customers. The two become fast friends in spite of their differences and initial language barrier. Both girls learn about lives outside their own experiences, how society treats them differently, and how to speak up.
The Only Black Girls in Town by Brandy Colbert
Alberta and her two dads are one of the few Black families living in their coastal California town and they are delighted to learn that the new owners of the B&B across the street are also Black. Alberta quickly befriends fellow 7th-grader Edie, despite their fashion differences. Meanwhile, Alberta's white best friend, Laramie, appears to be drifting towards the mean girl, causing tension in their relationship. When Alberta and Edie set out to solve the mystery lurking between the pages of a stack of journals from the 1950s and 60s they find in the attic, they uncover a secret life.
Braced by Alyson Gerber
Braced is based on Gerber's own experience growing up with scoliosis. Seventh grader, Rachel, is an enthusiastic soccer player but this year her doctor tells her she must wear a corrective brace for her scoliosis for 23 hours a day. Understandably, she is devastated by this. Rachel's journey to acceptance of her condition is touching and relatable as she works through relationships with her classmates and mother. An excellent read.
MORE: Middle Grade Books about Body Image
Lily and Dunkin by Donna Gephart
This is a marvelously written story told in alternating voices. Lily Jo knows she is a girl, but most of the world knows her as Tim. She has the support of her mom, sister and best friend but Lily needs the love and support of her father in order to gain the confidence (and medication) she needs. Dunkin is the new kid in town but he has a secret. He struggles to come to terms with his bipolar disorder and find out where he fits in, too. Lily Jo may have body image challenges that most kids won't experience, but her journey, as well as Dunkin's, to express herself, find her own way and make the right friends will resonate will all middle schoolers.
Maybe He Just Likes You by Barbara Dee
The boys in Mila's seventh grade class are harassing her, making unwanted comments and touching her in a way that makes her feel uncomfortable. Some of her peers think she is overreacting, and Mila doesn't know what to do. With the help of a karate class and a new friend, she gains the confidence she needs to address the situation head on. Few children's books address the subject of sexual harassment, but most girls have experienced it in one form or another. Maybe He Just Likes You should be required reading for both girls and boys.
The Great Green Heist (series) by Varian Johnson
This fast-paced heist story is a fun choice for summer reading. Jackson Greene decides to intervene when he thinks his classmates are rigging the school election against his friend, Gabby. Jackson and his friends engage in a scheme to make sure the election ballots are counted honestly. With school political shenanigans, a diverse group of protagonists, and a clever, twisting plot, your kids will love this book.
Martin McLean, Middle School Queen by Alyssa Zaczek
Seventh grader, Martin McLean, is trying to figure out where he fits in. He loves being on the Mathletes team and he embraces his mixed race, Afro-Cuban and white, identity. He's particularly close with his Tío Billy, who supports Martin's desire to enter a drag queen contest. Now that Martin has found a way to express himself he wants to figure out a way to tell his friends. This is a wonderful, readable story which presents diverse racial, cultural and gender identities in a positive light.
Dog Driven by Terry Lynn Johnson
14-year-old McKenna has Stargardt disease (a juvenile form of macular degeneration) but she's kept this hidden from her family because her sister has already lost her sight to the disease and McKenna doesn't want to lose her autonomy. She's hoping to keep her secret long enough to compete in a days-long dog sled race that raises awareness for Stargardt disease. Needless to say, this is a risky endeavor and Johnson's fast-paced, suspenseful book highlights the challenges McKenna faces, not just in the race, but as a teen learning how to identify as someone with a disability. Ages 10 and up.
Anthologies and Short Stories
Sometimes middle grade readers prefer short stories to novels. They are easy to get through and still very satisfying. Here are a couple of anthologies to check out!
Ancestor Approved: Intertribal Stories for Kids edited by Cynthia Leitich Smith
Ancestor Approved is a collection of short stories by Native American authors. The book is structured around an intertribal powwow in which the authors tell their stories. Tales range from funny and silly to serious. Topics cover an incredible range of issues making this not just a book in which Native kids can see their lives reflected, but a must-read anthology for non-Natives that will promote a deeper understanding of Native life.
Flying Lessons & Other Stories, edited by Ellen Oh
Tween readers who prefer short stories to novels will enjoy this collection of inclusive stories. There's a story about pirate capture, a wheelchair basketball team, a Star Wars geek. There are first crushes, super powers, friendships, embarrassing parents–all of which 11-year-olds will find instantly recognizable.
Historical Fiction
From pre-historic Europe to 19th century Japan to San Francisco in the 1980s, these historical fiction novels transport tweens to another time and place.
The Patron Thief of Bread by Lindsay Eagar
Set in a fictional location reminiscent of medieval France, a group street orphans called "The Crowns" eke out an existence through petty thievery. The leader of the group concocts a plan whereby the youngest of the gang, Duck, an 8-year-old girl one of the other orphans found in the river as an infant, will apprentice to a baker so she can sneak food and coins to the rest of the gang. But Duck's new life with the kindly baker changes her and she is torn between her old family and her new one. An incredibly moving and thought-provoking story.
Hope in the Valley by Mitali Perkins
Perkins, who wrote the marvelous Rickshaw Girl, tells the story of 12-year-old Indian-American Pandita Paul, whose neighborhood is undergoing changes. That's not the only change; Pandita's widowed father is starting to date and she's had a fall-out with her best friend. Pandita decides to discover the history of an abandoned house that was special to her and her mother. Set in the 1980s (the fashion descriptions alone are a reason to read this book!), Perkins deftly introduces tween readers to the complexities of gentrification and activism in a relatable coming of age story.
MORE: Historical Fiction with Strong Female Protagonists
In the Tunnel by Julie Lee
When the Soviets enter North Korea after the Korean War, Myung-gi watches as the government begins to impose oppressive measures on its population. When his father is arrested for smuggling in Western books, Myung-gi's family dares an escape to South Korea. In hope of finding his father, Myung-gi joins the South Korean army but now he is trapped in a tunnel at the border. In this companion to Lee's novel, Brother's Keeper, the action is just as heart-pounding, emotional and gripping as her earlier book.
The Blackbird Girls by Anne Blankman
Valentina and Oksana both have fathers who work at the Chernobyl nuclear power plant, but the girls do not get along. When the unthinkable happens and there is an explosion at the plant, the girls are evacuated. Oksana has to leave her mother and father behind and instead accompanies Valentina and her mother to Leningrad. The narrative alternates between the two girls in 1986, and Rifka in 1941, who we later learn is Valentina's grandmother. The girls learn secrets about their families, each other and must learn out how to trust each other.
Kira-Kira by Cynthia Kadohat
In the 1950s, Katie and her family move from Iowa to Georgia, where there are very few other Japanese-American families. Katie's parents work horrible jobs in a chicken processing factory and when her sister Lynn becomes ill, things go downhill fast. Through the difficulties, Katie focuses on Lynn's ability to see "kira-kira", a word that means the sparkling, glittering moments of life.
Heart of a Samurai by Margi Preus
In 1841, 14-year-old Manjiro and 3 other men are stranded on an island off Japan during a fishing trip. Eventually they are rescued by an American whaling vessel but instead of returning to Japan, Manjiro travels with the captain, attends school in America, faces the prejudice that comes with being an outsider, and heads to California during the gold rush. At the time, Japan was cut off from the world, and no one was allowed back into the country after leaving, but Manjiro risks his life to return.
Cuba in My Pocket by Adrianna Cuevas
Cuevas's story, inspired by her father's experiences, begins after the Bay of Pigs invasion. 12-year-old Cumba has been marked for military recruitment in Fidel Castro's oppressive regime and his parents decide to send him to safety in the United States. When he arrives in Florida, he is overwhelmed by the strangeness of life, language and culture. Gradually he begins to acclimate but still longs to be reunited with his family. Also available in Spanish.
The Paper Cowboy by Kristen Levine
It's 1953 and Tommy is the class bully. His difficult family life causes him to act out and when his sister is seriously injured while doing a chore that Tommy was supposed to do himself, things turn inside out. Tommy starts a paper route and becomes suspicious that one of his neighbors might be a communist. He makes the poor decision to frame the deli owner for communist activities. The effects of his actions are severe and Tommy must come to understand the consequences of acting without knowledge of the truth. Meanwhile, at home, Tommy endures family life with a depressed and increasingly abusive mother. When the family finally gets help, readers will get a small glimpse into the beginnings of psychotherapy in the 50s.
The War that Saved My Life (series) by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley
Ada, born with a club foot, has never left the apartment she shares with her younger brother and cruel mother. When her mother sends her brother out of London to the countryside at the start of WWII, Ada runs away with him. In the country they begin to make a new life with Susan, a woman who reluctantly takes them in. The three of them form a bond and Ada finally gets to truly live.
Just Like That by Gary D. Schmidt
Schmidt's middle grade novel is set in the same 1960s world as his books, The Wednesday Wars and Okay for Now, but it stands on its own. Meryl Lee Kowalski, devastated by the recent death of her friend, goes away to boarding school in Maine. The headmistress, Dr. MacKnockater, challenges Meryl Lee to think about herself and her strengths in new ways. Dr. MacKnockater is also nurturing Matt Coffin, a boy with a mysterious past. Issues of class, the Vietnam War, and grief round out this insightful and page-turning novel.
How to Find What You’re Not Looking For by Veera Hiranandani
It's 1967, and the Supreme Court has just struck down interracial marriage prohibitions in Loving v. Virginia. Although Ari lives in Connecticut, where interracial marriage was never banned, Ari thinks a lot about the recent court case because her sister, Leah, has fallen in love with a young man from India. Ari's Jewish parents disapprove of the relationship, so the pair elope. Ari grieves the loss of her sister and wants to find her. She also has to navigate her own complicated relationships with her parents and at school faces the antisemitic taunts from a classmate, as well as struggles with undiagnosed dysgraphia. There's a lot going on here, but the unique second-person narration grips the reader from start to finish.
Flipped by Wendelin Van Draanen
I learned of this award-winning book by way of the film version (which I loved!). Set in the 1980s (I think? It's not specified, but it's at the beginning of the CD era), chapters alternate between the energetic and free-spirited Juli and the straight-laced Bryce as they tell the journey of their relationship from their first meeting in second grade. For Juli, she "flipped" at first sight. For Bryce, no so much. As events unfold, we read each character's perspective about what happened. In eighth grade, Juli decides she wants to save an old tree, setting both characters down a path of self-discovery that leads to the second "flipped." Bryce comes to admire Julie. At the same time, Juli decides maybe Bryce is not what she thought he was.
The Windeby Puzzle: History and Story by Lois Lowry
Lowry introduces her book with facts around the discovery of a 2,000-year-old bog body in Northern Germany that inspired her book. She gives historical, scientific and archaeological background to set the context for her two intersecting narratives. In the first part of the book, Lowry imagines the life of an Iron-Age girl and how her life's journey may have led her to the same end as the bog body. After the bog body was DNA tested and revealed to be a boy, Lowry wrote the second narrative from the disabled boy's perspective. A fascinating and unique reading experience. Lowry also includes photographs.
Graphic Novels
Kids love graphic novels! Here are some excellent choices for 11-year-olds.
Borders by Thomas King, illustrated by Natasha Donovan
A mother sets out with her son from Canada to visit her daughter in Salt Lake City. When asked for her citizenship at the border, the mother responds, "Blackfoot." She will not identify as Canadian and so is refused entry to the United States. When turning around to re-enter Canada, she is also refused entry and the pair sits in limbo between countries. Kings' beautiful and careful storytelling asks readers to think about nationhood, Indigenous peoples, identity and justice. Absolutely brilliant.
When Stars Are Scattered by Victoria Jamieson and Omar Mohamed
In this graphic novel memoir, Jamieson and Mohamed tell the story of Mohamed's experience as a refugee living in a camp in Kenya. Readers will learn of the difficult life in a refugee camp but relate to the hopes of Omar and Hassan. Omar faces tough choices that could affect his future as well as his family and although the experiences of Omar and Hassan are likely to never be known by most readers of this book, readers will not soon forget them.
Other Boys by Damian Alexander
Author Damian Alexander's graphic novel memoir will speak to every middle schooler who has tried to figure out how to navigate school while managing complicated emotions. Damian is entering seventh grade and to deal with his trauma over past bullying, he decides to stop talking. After the death of his mother, he now lives with his grandparents and is beginning to confront new feelings he has towards other boys. Damian's history is revealed through flashbacks. His conversations with a therapist and a few new friendships help him cope.
All Summer Long (series) by Hope Larson
In this graphic novel, 13-year-old Bina turns to music after her parents shut down screen time. She uses music to work through her emotions about how her relationships with family and friends are changing as she gets older. A brand new graphic novel perfect for summer or when your 8th graders wishes it was summer!
MORE: Summer Reading List for 6th Grade
Awkward (series) by Svetlana Chmakova
Peppi Torres is starting a new school and much to her dismay she trips in front of everyone! When another student tries to help her, the pair are teased and Peppi shoves her helper aside. It is a move she instantly regrets, and later she agonizes over how to apologize for her rudeness. The boy, Jamie, is in the science club, while Peppi and her friends are in the art club. The two clubs are at odds and when they are pitted against each other in a contest, things get tricky. Peppi tries to navigate the awkwardness of being friends with Jamie and her art club friends, as well as making honest choices.
Nonfiction
Some kids prefer nonfiction over fiction, but even if they don't these excellent narrative and informative nonfiction books are just as exciting as a novel.
The Mona Lisa Vanishes by Nicholas Day
Narrative nonfiction at its best! Everyone loves a good heist tale. And... when the heist is a real-life adventure told in the most engaging way possible, even better! The scandal, the chaos, the "I don't believe it!" moments! Even if your kids aren't normally nonfiction readers, this book will grab them from the very beginning.
MORE: Nonfiction for Middle School
This Boy: The Early Lives of John Lennon & Paul McCartney by Ilene Cooper
Music and history fans will enjoy Cooper's in depth look at the childhoods of Lennon and McCartney in wartime and post-war Liverpool. One need not be familiar with the Fab Four to dive into this short biography. Cooper details the relationships and places that shaped the two men, stopping her narration just as Ringo Starr joins the group and the band as we know it today started to take off.
Who's Got Mail?: The History of Mail in America by Linda Barrett Osborne
Your children will be amused to find out that at one point, parents could mail their children through the Postal Service! This engaging history book shares the important role the USPS has played throughout American history, from before the its codifying in the Constitution to the present day. Full of utterly fascinating facts and super cool photos, kids will wonder why they never considered reading about mail until now!
All Thirteen: The Incredible Cave Rescue of the Thai Boys' Soccer Team by Christina Soontornvat
If you are like me and the thought of swimming through a narrow opening into a cave triggers intense and claustrophobic reaction, then you might find yourself occasionally closing your eyes in anxiety while reading this book. Nevertheless, I highly recommend it. Soontornvat's meticulously researched book journeys through the 18 days of planning the complex rescue mission for the 12 boys trapped in the Tham Luang Nang Non cave in Northern Thailand. Utterly fascinating and nail-biting, even though we know the outcome!
Save the People!: Halting Human Extinction by Stacy McAnulty, illustrated by Nicole Miles
McAnulty's upbeat tone allows readers to consider the consequences of human inaction over climate change without sending them into a spiral of despair. After all, knowledge is power. The book is divided into three parts. The first is a look at the history of Earth, and past extinctions, including a near-extinction of humans. The second looks at possible future scenarios, and the third details what's going wrong today. The writing is funny and engaging, which is good, because the subject is serious and the science is real.
This Book Is Anti-Racist by Tiffany Jewell, illustrated by Aurélia Durand
Instead of lecturing children, Jewell inspires readers to think about their own identity in the context of society. She poses questions to readers to inspire them to think critically about how their identity plays a role in how they perceive and treat others and how others might perceive and treat them. Sections of the book are punctuated with activities which can be prompts for discussion or journal writing. Jewell's book is uplifting and readers come away with a deeper understanding of what it means to build a community where everyone is valued.
The Tortoise and the Soldier: A Story of Courage and Friendship in World War I by Micheal Formen
Find it: Your Library | Amazon
My son enjoyed this book so much he read it twice. It has gorgeous illustrations and is not a very long read, so use it to entice so-called "reluctant readers". Parents should know that since it is a war story there is difficult, though age-appropriate, material. It is based on the true story of Henry Friston, who served in the British Navy during World War I. While rescuing others at Gallipoli, he finds a tortoise, who becomes his companion for the rest of the war. Henry relates is story to a young boy and inspiring journalist.
Lori says
Any chance the lists could be offered in a print friendly format too? I'd love to share them by posting them in the library so the students could refer to them when they are looking for something good to read! Thanks!
Lara says
It might be a bit harder but you could screen shot each page or the pages that you would like and print those instead!!!
Nicole says
Great list! I think my kiddos will be interested in a bunch of these books!
Erica MomandKiddo says
Happy reading!
Even in Australia says
My 10.5yo daughter and I read All the Answers and loved it. She liked George but said it wasn't as good as she thought it would be. She also liked Confessions... which I took out of the library for me but haven't gotten to yet! (Sound familiar?) I recently read a picture book about Manjiro, called, I think, Manjiro.
Erica MomandKiddo says
I'll have to look for the Manjiro picture book, thanks.
Kristi says
My 11 yo loves the "I Survived" series and the Amulet Series (graphic novels). The 13 Story Treehouse series was also another one he enjoyed reading this year.
Erica MomandKiddo says
Thanks for the suggestion!
Lee says
I'm just coming across your lists (which are fantastic!) and was wondering if you had read Wonder by R.J. Palacio?
Such a great family story told from different perspectives.
Erica says
Yes, Wonder is a great book. It's on my list of chapter books that teach empathy.
Elizabeth Struthers says
11 books about boys for your son?