Best of November
The League of Seven
by Alan Gratz
A young boy is caught in a decades-old battle that has lately taken over his parents' minds, and in the effort to find them, he ends up finding himself instead. A middle grade steampunk adventure with an alternate history and ties to First Nations justice, science, Lovecraftian monsters, and the true meaning of family? It might not be your cup of tea, but it's mine, and it's yummy.
The Most Boring Book Ever
by Brandon Sanderson and Kazu Kibuishi
I would not recommend this picture book as an audiobook.
What Once Was Mine
by Liz Braswell
Rapunzel has lived her whole life fearing that she'll harm someone with her moon-powered hair, but when the chance to escape comes, she goes on an adventure of self-discovery. Yet another middle grade Disney fairy tale retelling that captures many of the most beloved elements of the film while tackling more complex issues in a thoughtful way.
Best of October
Alex and the Ironic Gentleman
by Adrienne Kress
When Alex's sixth-grade teacher is kidnapped by pirates, Alex is determined to face any obstacle to rescue him and recover his family's hidden treasure. This quirky middle grade has a lot of adventure and a very sassy narrator.
Juniper Bean Resorts to Murder
by Gracie Ruth Mitchell
When Juniper last saw Aidan, she was a failing high schooler, and he was trying to get her to like English. Now, she's on her way to becoming a romance author, but her personal life is rich with more experiences of rejection and murder than love. I laughed out loud several times at this adult mystery romance, and I appreciate the perspective it gives on foster care.
Llewelyn's Little Book of Halloween
by Mickie Mueller
Looking for some history, fast facts, recipes, party ideas, or a few wiccan spells? This short nonfiction has a little of everything, all offered in bite-size pieces.
The Universe and the Teacup
by K.C. Cole
I strongly disliked math when I was in primary school, but the more I understood it, the more I realized that math can be beautiful and fascinating. This nonfiction explores just a few of the ways mathematical principles really are relevant to daily life.
The Wishkeepers Apprentice
by Rachel Chivers Khoo
When Felix spots a wee man fishing coins from the fountain in his generally optimistic town, he never suspects that he'll uncover one of the biggest secrets of his life or that it'll be up to him to save the very optimism that makes life worth living. I was looking for a short middle grade novel that was charming, magical, and just a bit spooky, and this is exactly that.
The Bakery Dragon
by Devin Elle Kurtz
Ember the dragon really wants a gold hoard, but then he discovers that not all that glitters is gold, and some things are more valuable than wealth. The illustrations in this picture book are absolutely phenomenal and pair perfectly with the story to create a bit of magic and a reminder of what's really important in life.
A Home Can Be
by Stephanie Seidler with Anastasia Sikilinda
This cozy poetic picture book considers a variety of habitats and the ways that everyone can feel at home as long as they are loved. Don't let the cover fool you: this book is really lovely, both in the illustrations and the poetic style.
Best of September
Against Technoableism
by Ashley Shew
Is being disabled normal? Consider along with Ashley Shew in this short nonfiction analysis.
Donut the Destroyer
by Sarah Graley and Stef Purenins
Donut's parents are supervillains, but Donut wants to do what's right ... even if her best friend really wants her to be an evil sidekick instead. This humorous graphic novel encourages young readers to consider who a person truly is, rather than focusing on where they came from.
Mr Penguin and the Lost Treasure
by Alex T Smith
Mr Penguin is an advanturer ... and a penguin. Really, it's all in the title. This humorous middle grade illustrated novel is thoughtful enough to make a point and ridiculous enough to always entertain.
Simon and the Better Bone
by Corey R. Tabor
In this uniquely oriented picture book, Simon finds a bone, but then he spots another bone. I laughed and just wanted to hug this book. I hope you will too.
The Seasons Within Me
by Bianca Pozzi
Sometimes it rains, and that makes things hard, but being sad doesn't have to mean lonely. This gorgeous picture book reiterates the value of service dogs and isn't afraid to explore unexplained depression.
The Vampire Knitting Club
by Nancy Warren
Lucy is shocked to discover that her beloved Granny has died, then even more shocked to realize Granny is still walking around at night. This supernatural cozy mystery is full of knitting, vampires, romantic tension, and shocking revelations.
Best of August
The Bear Ate Your Sandwich
by Julia Sarcone-Roach
I was told this humorous picture book is the perfect example of an unreliable narrator, and I couldn't agree more. I giggled all through this book and plan to read it many times.
The Deep Dark
by Molly Knox Ostertag
Sometimes a graphic novel really knows what it's trying to do. Molly Knox Ostertag plays with color in a refreshing way to help tell the story of a young woman who can't believe in goodness. Until ...
Henry & Leo
by Pamela Zagarenski
Henry is devastated to lose his favorite stuffed lion, for he knows that anything that is loved is much more than the sum of its parts. This beautiful picture book left me breathless and reminded me to hold my loved ones close.
Impossible Creatures
by Katherine Rundell
As soon as he saw the griffin, Christopher knew there was no going back. This magical middle grade novel overflows with themes of noble self-sacrifice and hope. I would not recommend reading it on the subway unless you've brought extra tissues.
The Official Stardew Valley Cookbook
by ConcernedApe
A cookbook, Sirah? Really?
This book is definitely for anyone who has enjoyed Stardew Valley, the video game. But the recipes cleverly take us back to the roots and offer detailed instructions to make many delicious dishes from scratch. It's very well done and inspiring.
The Whisper
by Pamela Zagarenski
Another Pamela Zagarenski book?
Ah, reader, you should know that I can't help falling in love with good artwork, and this author/illustrator has it. The Whisper is about a girl who likes words in her books, but when she receives a book with only pictures, she realizes there's more to a story than the ink its written with.
Best of July
Almost There
by Farrah Rochon
A remarkably accurate historical fantasy based off of Disney's the Princess and the Frog, this story explores Tiana's place in the universe and helps correct some of the weirdness of the original film. This book isn't perfect, but I can't say no to a book that has social justice themes that actually make sense in the historical context.
Premeditated Myrtle
by Elizabeth C Bunce
Myrtle is sure she can use her observation skills to help solve crime in this middle grade mystery thriller, but she's held back just a bit by propriety and some shocking family drama. Another remarkably accurate historical piece, I am particularly in love with the governess, a woman who is feminist without being obnoxious (a remarkably rare trait in historical fiction).
No Cats in the Library
by Lauren Emmons
A little cat loves picture books, but animals aren't allowed in the library. This is a sweet little picture book with gorgeous illustrations and a good point about what it means to reframe something.
The Black Book of Secrets
by F.E. Higgins
Fleeing from the city and its many threats, Ludlow finds himself in a remote village and apprenticed to a man who collects secrets; between this and the wiles of the local landlord, young Ludlow's life might be in even more risk than what he escaped. I was surprised at how much I liked this dark middle grade horror. It's dark but not really scary, and its multimedia style makes it an engaging read for anyone who likes small-town drama and mysterious poisons.
The Deep & Dark Blue
by Niki Smith
Twin princes are forced to flee the palace and disguise themselves as priestesses in training until they can prove who was really behind the coup, but one of the young royals faces an identity crisis when dresses start to feel more comfortable than pants. Well-drawn and with a powerful sense of empathy, this middle grade graphic novel is perfect for pride month or any time you're looking for adventure and intrigue.
The Dinner Lady Detectives
by Hannah Hendy
Working in the school kitchens comes with its fair share of drama, but when the supervisor ends up dead under suspicious circumstances, two of the dinner ladies find themselves in possession of clues that might just save their lives—or put them at risk. This cozy mystery is on the sillier side, but it does a beautiful job exploring the romance between two older women and the way each of their strengths helps the community as a whole.
Looking for Love in All the Haunted Places
by Claire Kann
Claire Kann does it again! In this adult romance, our leading lady lands a role on a reality TV show where her task is to live in a haunted house for a month, but this job gets trickier when romantic drama flares up between her and a man on the film crew. Yes, it's a classic romance, but it's sweet and so empathetic and has just the right amount of paranormal intrigue.
Hope It All Works Out
by Reza Ferazmand
Mouse, Crow, Snail, Turtle, and a few other characters are just living their lives, which sometimes works out well. This collection of comics might be the funniest thing I've read this year with its blunt honesty and relatable humor. I can't wait until it's released for real so I can foist it upon all my friends and family.
The Marble Queen
by Anna Kopp
There's a bit of confusion as a destitute princess realizes she won't be marrying a prince to save her kingdom but instead a queen. The drama! The tragedy! The romance! The only thing that could have made me love this book more is if the artwork of this adult graphic novel wasn't quite so flat.
Sunflowers
by Keezy Young
Ever wondered what it's like to have bipolar disorder? Read this graphic novel. Trust me.
Best of June
Anne (sort of)
by Kathleen Gros
This graphic novel retelling of Anne of Green Gables effectively reframes the classic life lessons in a way that's approachable for modern readers. I loved how this book got rid of the cringey parts of the classic but kept Anne's character intact, vivid imagination and all.
Cattywampus
by Ash Van Otterloo
Cattywampus is a middle grade magical realism book in which two young witches make a terrible mistake and have to end a decades-old family feud while finding their identities. I don't know that I've ever seen an intersex character portrayed so effectively in a children's book, but this story has a lot of humorous moments and playful elements that make the whole thing a fun adventure.
Lightfall
by Tim Probert
Vivid landscapes and thoughtfully-crafted characters populate every page of this high-fantasy MG graphic novel. I love everything about it, from the depictions of mental health to the thrilling adventures.
Katie the Catsitter
by Colleen A.F. Venable
Katie thinks she's signing up for an average after-school job in this humorous MG graphic novel, but it turns out her neighbor's cats are more than they appear. I was extremely surprised that this book is a superhero story, not a middle school drama, and I'm very glad.
Milk & Mocha
by Melani Sie
Each page of this cozy comic collection is populated by two bears who are obviously, adorably in love. If you want something extremely fluffy and gentle, this is a great choice.
The Pengrooms
by Paul Castle
In this picture book, two penguins are on a mission to make special cakes for their customers, culminating in one of the funnest weddings ever. Beautiful artwork, simple message, very cozy.
Puzzleheart
by Jenn Reese
In this middle grade mystery novel, a nonbinary character and their dad are trying to patch up some family drama by visiting grandma in her deteriorating escape room of a house, but the house doesn't want to be fixed, at least, not the way grandma intends. I love puzzles and I love families learning to understand each other; this book offers both with the added bonus of brilliant scenery and valuable friendships.
Transmogrify
ed by G. Haron Davis
Looking for over a dozen stories that are almost entirely about trans people being happy? Transmogrify is an anthology that brings together a wide variety of plots, styles, and trans identities and offers magic and delight for everyone.
Untethered Sky
by Fonda Lee
If you're looking for a happy ending, I can't recommend this adult high fantasy novella, but if you like a gripping tale of purpose and found family with a healthy dose of what it means to see dreams shatter, this book offers a powerful story.
Best of May
100 Dragons All Named Broccoli
by David Larochelle
In your average counting-themed picture book, the numbers go from one to ten, or some other such number. But in this book, the numbers zip around nearly as speedily as dragons, adding silly moments and some good math. I laughed out loud and will definitely be reading this one again.
The Deadly Daylight
by Ash Harrier
Alice isn't exactly good at "tact," something that becomes increasingly apparent when her classmate, Violet, loses her uncle to an allergic reaction. But a little magical realism and some determination push Alice to question things further than the authorities, twisting this friendly middle grade novel into a thrilling mystery. If you enjoy charming narration and neurodivergent characters, I highly recommend this book to you.
The Fog Diver
by Joel Ross
This middle grade post-apocalyptic novel focuses on a young man with an unusual gift: because he has nanites in his eye, he can survive in the fog while no other humans can. But this puts him and his found family at risk, so the crew has to come up with their most audacious scheme yet in order to escape. This one is a real page-turner that left me out of breath at times (usually from the tension but sometimes from laughter). Definitely the best post-apocalyptic book I've read in a long time.
Lily and the Octopus
by Steven Rowley
The dog dies. If that puts you off, this book might not be for you. But this book found me at the right moment and reminded me that, even in our darkest moments, we are not alone.
The Lock-Eater
by Zach Loran Clark
When an automaton arrives at the orphanage and Melanie agrees to go with it, she doesn't know what to expect, but becoming a wanted fugitive hadn't made the list. This book is full of powerful dialogue, enchanting world building, and delightful characters.
Malamander
by Thomas Taylor
Despite being a hotel's lost and founder, Herbert Lemon isn't prepared to find a set of parents who were lost a decade ago, nor does he know how to find a Malamander egg, as one hasn't been turned in. But find them he must, with the help of quirky townsfolk and an audacious girl from out of town
The Mysterious Benedict Society
by Trenton Lee Stewart
Four children are selected to join the Mysterious Benedict Society and charged with infiltrating a secret school before it's too late. This middle grade mystery draws on classics in the genre but adds an air of inclusivity and cleverness that I really can't get enough of.
Pearl
by Moly Idle
This picture book is about a mermaid who longs to become someone important and doesn't see how a single grain of sand can help. The plot is sweet, but the illustrations swept me off my feet.
The Rise and Fall of Mount Majestic
by Jennifer Trafton
Every day, Mount Majestic and the king's castle rise to their highest point at midday and drop to flatness at midnight. This is how it has always been. But a bit of rudeness toward the elfin leaf-eaters results in the unearthing of a giant secret—one that could easily spell the end for everyone on the island. This enchanting middle grade fantasy is written in a classic fairy tale style, and like many classics, it makes a few very good points without seeming to mean to.
A Spoonful of Frogs
by Casey Lyall
The recipe calls for a spoonful of frog, but how does one fill a spoon with live creatures? This silly picture book reinforces the necessity of flexibility and compromise, but it's also humorous and very fun to read aloud.
Best of April
The Trouble with Robots
by Michelle Mohrweis
Robotics club means everything to Evelyn, who is secretly autistic and can't understand why Allie won't take anything seriously, never realizing what's going on beneath the surface. This classic middle school drama is further complicated by the intersections of disability, orientation, and the occasional racial tension, creating a perfect storm and the perfect opportunity for both protagonists to grow. I love all the characters, and I'm even intrigued by robotics after reading this book.
So Let Them Burn
by Kamilah Cole
Being the chosen one comes with its perks, but now that the war is over, Faron is stuck dealing with politics—until her sister is claimed by an enemy dragon and taken over the sea. Faron is willing to do whatever it takes to get her back, even if the cost might be too high. This young adult high fantasy book has everything I was hoping for from Fourth Wing with none of the awkward explicit content. It deals with colonialism in a fresh fictional way and doesn't hesitate to explore the intersection of race, class, and orientation. And there are dragons.
Hazel and Her Sun
by Farnaz Calafi
Hazel loves the sun, and she wishes she could keep it in her room. But what would happen if she really did manage to catch the sun in a bowl? This charming picture book is full of color, and it answers a silly question with a thoughtful answer.
Spindleheart: Trail of Shadow and Spool
by T.I. Avens
When an ancient artifact goes missing and animals start turning up dead from unexplained causes, two young heroes set out to do what they can to protect those they love. I love the brilliant world building and unique characters in this middle grade high fantasy, and although I'm unsatisfied with the ending, I am looking forward to book 2.
Negative Cat
by Sophie Blackall
One boy has always dreamed of having a cat of his very own, but when he finishes all his chores to convince his parents to finally agree, he ends up with a cat that doesn't like to play or snuggle or do all the fun cat things: it's rather a negative cat. I highly recommend this picture book to anyone who has ever loved a cat, particularly a grumpy cat, and whose love for animals has spurred a love of reading.
Morning Leaves
by Laing F. Rikkers
I knew a photographer once who told me that the world is full of unnoticed things. This book takes the time to notice, consider, and empathize. The poems are simple, generally choppy, filled with short phrases and impressions. But I feel them. I particularly adore the pea sprout, hibiscus, and buttercup poems, but I didn't find a single poem in this book that didn't make me feel something. I want this book on my shelf where I can read a little each day and revel in the feeling of being connected to something beyond myself, even if it's just a plant--especially if it's just a plant.
Excuse Me as I Kiss the Sky
by Rudy Francisco
Like every other book of poetry by Rudy Francisco so far, this one is full of thoughtful reflections on life. This collection is divided into sections that show the poet exploring different poetic forms, and I'm honestly inspired to try a few of these myself. I love the way Francisco creates a scene with wordplay and the lightest suggestions, never coming across too heavy-handed. Even though understanding some of these poems takes effort, it's rewarding.
Phoenix Down
by Brooke Hatchett
Remy is just an ordinary shop assistant, but he and his adoptive father have a big secret: phoenixes, who legally don't exist, live in their basement, and it seems certain criminals are willing to do whatever it takes to find them. This middle grade high fantasy is made up of the first 40 chapters of an ongoing web series on Kindle Vella, which means it feels largely unfinished. However, it remains one of the best self-published books I've had the pleasure of reading. It has gentle character moments, high-anticipation chase scenes, secrets, justice, escapes, betrayal, sacrifice, familial love, and a whole lot of things that just make it sparkle. I hope the next 40 chapters will come out in book form soon.
Best of March
The Dress in the Window
by Robert Tregoning
In this rhyming picture book, one little boy spots a beautiful dress, and he can't stop imagining how it would look on him. I fell in love with the bubbly rhymes and cheerful theme of this story and stuck around for the cozy message about acceptance and self-expression.
Inventor Adventure
by Selma Benkiran
This realistic fiction book follows a young man's attempts to keep his plants watered through experimentation and research, but he learns a lot about managing his emotions along the way. While this book is a little long for a picture book, I love that it brings together two very important story elements in a believable and rewarding way.
Library Monster and the Inexperienced Librarian
by Laurel Lorenzini
The school library is a mess of chewed papers, and the kids know it can only mean that there's another book monster on the loose! This third picture book in the Library Monster series is just as charming as its prequels and adds in a cozy message about kindness and eco-friendliness.
Not Your Typical Dragon
by Dan Bar-el
Crispin doesn't breathe fire like a normal dragon, and it takes an atypical knight to help him understand that everyone has something to give. I love the silly illustrations in this picture book and couldn't help but giggle at all the creative breaths Crispin brings to the table.
Quintessence
by Jess Redman
Until Alma can face her parents' disapproval and admit to having a mental illness, she may never discover the truth behind her Alma-ness and how to save an endangered fallen star. This middle grade magical realism combines poetic prose with a charming tale about friendship and hope.
Sterling Fierce and the Lost Dragons
by Lori Tchen
Dragons have disappeared all over the land, and it's up to Sterling to figure out how to stop a twisted wizard and bring hope back to the kingdom in this thrilling YA fantasy. Sterling might be my new favorite fantasy protagonist; brilliantly written with a lot of heart.
The Tragical Tale of Birdie Bloom
by Temre Beltz
Labels mean everything in the storybook world of Wanderly, but one little girl dares to ask if it really has to be that way. I love the way this book points out that a label is only good if it's helpful for understanding rather than restrictive. I laughed and cried and obviously couldn't wait to read more books by this author.
The Triumphant Tale of Pippa North
by Temre Beltz
Pippa is not pleased when her destiny is changed, but perhaps she's the only one who can remind the triumphants of Wanderly what it really means to be a hero. This book is a bit more pompous than its predecessor, but it still makes some brilliant points that had me cheering and hugging the novel as I read. Both Birdie Bloom and Pippa North are middle grade fantasies set in the same world, you can read them in any order.
Untangling Hope
by Johnna Stein
When Hope has to introduce herself to yet another foster mom, she feels the familiar sensation of getting tangled up inside; but unlike last time, Hope has an exit plan and a sure way of finding a forever home if she can just get around a few pesky rules. This middle grade contemporary is written with keen insight and an excellent understanding of character.
Best of February
Beasts and Beauty
by Soman Chainani
This is a collection of fairy tales told from a little different perspective. While I didn't love every story, I appreciate the insight each one brings.
Greetings from Witness Protection
by Jake Burt
A middle school girl moves from endless foster homes to become the fourth person in a family running from the mafia in this middle grade contemporary thriller. I love Nicki as a character; her voice and character traits are refreshing and brilliantly crafted.
Julián Is a Mermaid
by Jessica Love
This playfully-illustrated picture book follows Julián as he experiments with clothing and jewelry. I love the way Julián receives support from his family, and honestly, if the cover art doesn't get you, you might want to check if your heart hasn't turned to stone.
The Little Green Goose
by Adele Sansone
Mr. Goose really wants to be a dad, but when he finally gets the chance to adopt an egg of his own, the creature who hatches is the strangest goose anyone has ever seen. This clever picture book reminds me that dads are just as important as moms, and adoptive families are real families too.
The Sheep, the Rooster, and the Duck
by Matt Phelan
Three of the cleverest animals ever to float in a hot air balloon set out to save the world in this epic illustrated chapter book. I laughed out loud and learned some awesome historical facts. If you read no other book on this list, please read this one.
Stand Tall Molly Lou Melon
by Patty Lovell
Molly Lou Melon is short and a little quirky, but in this picture book, she doesn't let the school bully get her down but instead teaches her whole class to be proud of themselves. I loved the way Molly Lou stays positive in this story, and although she relies heavily on Grandma's advice, Molly Lou is the one who steps up to make changes in her life.
The Witchwood Knot
by Olivia Atwater
In this adult historical fantasy, one former orphan arrives at Witchwood manor to try to dispel the fairy curse that's been haunting it but learns that a much more sinister beast lurks within. Like all Atwater's books so far, this one is full of insightful commentary, delightful banter, and clever prose.
Best of January
To Night Owl from Dogfish
by Holly Goldberg Sloan and Meg Wolitzer
In this middle grade novel, told entirely in emails and text messages, two girls meet when their dads are considering getting married, and they aren't happy about either situation, so they set out to take control of their family destinies. I loved everything about this book: the characters, the authenticity, the chaotic twists, the random events, the thoughtful morals, and the insight on life and friendship.
The Runaway Pea
by Kjartan Poskitt
In this playful rhyming picture book, a pea escapes the dinner plate and goes on an ill-fated adventure. After months of wading through bad poetry, this book was an absolute delight with its bouncy rhythm and natural rhymes. The ending made me smile.
The Boy Who Dreamt the World
by Jethro Punter
This one is more of an honorable mention; with a few more rounds of proofreading, it could have been truly amazing, but I'm an editor and can't ignore a sentence with five adverbs in it (one is enough!).
In this middle grade portal fantasy, Adam discovers that he can "wake up" in a dream world in which he has amazing powers. But a terrifying enemy is stalking the otherwise idyllic land, and it's up to Adam to figure out whose nightmare is causing it and wake them up in the real world. The premise, while not truly original, is well done, and the writing style is humorous and clever. I love the characters and the setting and would love to see this book polished.
