Back to school reads for middle schoolers

For many kids, this coming week will be the first week of school! Whether they love school or not, these first few days can often feel slightly stressful and overwhelming compared to the summer days that were spent chilling in the pool or lounging on the couch.

At the end of the day before I go to bed, I always give myself at least half an hour to read. Reading is something I prioritize, and it’s also nice to have that downtime reading a good book built into my daily routine.

It’s important to encourage that time with a book, even when the days are busy with school, work, extracurricular activities, and whatever else fills your day. Especially when technology is such a big part of our lives, I want to ensure that books are given the value and appreciation they deserve.

The books I am writing about today are middle grade reads from three genres: contemporary fiction, fantasy, and historical fiction. None of these recommendations are super long, which is why they would be great back to school reads when we are still adjusting back into the everyday school routine.

Restart by Gordan Korman-

“My mind is a black hole. There might be a lot in there, but it can’t get out.”

Ever since school bully Chase took a head-dive off his roof, he is a different person. After being diagnosed with amnesia he no longer remembers who he is, or who his friends and family are. Chase doesn’t even remember his own mom. What he also doesn’t remember is that he used to be a huge bully. He seemed to have had some run-ins with the law that everyone seems to know about, except for him. However, Chase is determined to change for the better.

I enjoy this book because of its humor and compelling characters. The nice thing about this it is that it would be interesting to both girls and boys. While the main character is male, it has plenty female characters as well.

The Two Princesses of Bamarre by Gail Carson Levine-

“Food for thought requires a mind with teeth.”

I absolutely adore this book. Written by Gail Carson Levine, author of Ella Enchanted, this book does not disappoint. This novel tells the story of two princesses: shy, quiet Addie, and adventurous Meryl. When Meryl falls victim to the Grey Death, Addie must overcome her fears in order to find a cure for the disease that killed so many.

This story will satisfy the fantasy nerds as well as other readers who are simply looking for a fun book. I have always really enjoyed this book because of the suspense and the detailed writing. Addie encounters specters, dragons, and other fantastical creatures and through this, we get transported to a whole other world.

The War that Saved My Life-

“I wanted to say a lot of things, but, as usual, I didn’t have the words for the thoughts inside my head.”

The final book that I am writing about is called The War that Saved my Life, written by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley. This award-winning book is set during the second world war, and a girl named Ada is the main protagonist. When the parents in London are evacuating their children, Ada’s mom makes up her mind to send Jamie with them, Ada’s little brother. Ada has never been outside the little room in their flat due to the fact that her mom has too much pride to let the public know of her daughter’s twisted foot and the fact that she cannot walk. However, Ada can’t bear to be parted from her brother, and she makes up her mind to go with him.

For fans of historical fiction, this book is great for middle schoolers and handles delicate topics in a way that younger readers can understand. Upper elementary students may even be able to handle the story as well. The storyline is detailed, and you can tell that the author did a lot of research in order to ensure that it would be as accurate as possible.

I’ve given five stars to all three of these books.

I hope adjusting back into the school schedule isn’t too difficult, but make sure to keep reading and check out new books!

(If you haven’t subscribed, please take the time to quickly scroll back to the top of this post and add your email!)