Celebrate Middle-Grade March

What is Middle-Grade March? Glad you asked!

It’s a month where grown-ups make it a point to read books written and marketed to kids aged 8-12 (middle-grades). Middle Grade March can help parents and caregivers bond with their children by reading the same books.  Even when they deal with hard topics, books for this age group tend to have a lighter tone, leaving you with a quick, easy, often uplifting read.

Middle-grade books are where reading gets really exciting! These middle-grade favourites are packed with epic adventures, humour, friendship, big feelings, and characters who are discovering their place in the world.

Holes by Louis Sachar is a captivating read from start to finish, a clever read about the adventures, mysteries, and lessons the characters live through while away at camp. This is considered to have one of the most satisfying endings in middle grade fiction!

Although The Giver by Lois Lowry has been challenged at schools in the past, it is a powerful thought-provoking novel about a dystopian society that will make you ask big questions and see things differently.

For lovers of fantasy, the Harry Potter series consists of 7 books, the first, The Philosopher’s Stone, introduces us to the wizarding school of Hogwarts. These thrilling books are widely recommended to middle school-aged readers. The series grows with the audience; they can follow along as characters grow and mature through the ages of 11-17.

Amari and the Night Brothers by B.B Alston is a fast-paced, empowering story that celebrates courage, resilience and believing in yourself, even when others underestimate you. 

For those who enjoy graphic novels, Drama by Raina Telgemeier is a hilarious, relatable story about a girl named Callie who works behind the scenes on her middle school musical.

Middle-grade books are powerful because they remind us that growing up can be messy, magical, and full of possibility.  Pick one up this March, you might just discover your new favourite story! 

For more reading suggestions, visit your local library branch or submit a Book Bundle request, and our staff will spend time putting together some specific book recommendations for you or your child.