While the search for a new book or a new author for a 4-8 yr old might be a little less intimidating, Laura’s really helped us out this week with some great recommendations for the 9-12 year old set. And as you can probably tell, they’ve all been kid tested & pleasantly approved 🙂 Enjoy…
Fiction
Johnny Tremain Esther Forbes (Newberry Medal)
Historical fiction at its best. An exciting and educational tale set in the days before the American Revolution.
A Tale Dark and Grimm Adam Gidwitz
Alternating dark and creepy with hilarious and goofy. Consistently brilliant.
The Year of the Boar and Jackie Robinson Bette Bao Lord
Touching on immigration and racial tension in a gentle, sweet and funny tale.
The Giver Lois Lowry (Newberry Medal)
A thought-provoking novel. I highly recommend reading this book along with or ahead of your child. Expect great conversation to come of it.
Gregor the Overlander Suzanne Collins (Underland Chronicles Series)
A fun, thrilling series which is appropriately written for younger readers. My son has read the entire 5 book series… 3 times. ‘nuff said
Non-Fiction
The Word Snoop Ursula Dubosarsky
Lovers of reading and writing of all ages will appreciate this book. Consider it a tour of the English language from the early days to Twitter. The plentiful puzzles, jokes and riddles are a bonus treat.
Sir Charlie: Chaplin, the Funniest Man in the World Sid Fleischman
A gifted man in his rags-to-riches story told to young readers by notable late biographer Fleishman (also see his bios on Mark Twain and Harry Houdini).
Almost Astronauts: 13 Women who Dared to Dream Tanya Lee Stone
In the 1960’s you had to be a man to go to space. This is the story of the women who were qualified. They never made it to space, but they paved the way for those who came after them by challenging the system.
D.I.Y. Kids Ellen Lupton and Julia Lupton
Creative and unique DIY craft ideas for kids ages 7-12. Lots of great stuff here!
Knucklehead: Tall Tales and Almost True Stories of Growing up Scieszka Jon Scieszka
Scieszka is a family favorite in our house (he could write about paint drying and we would eat it up). This memoir shows you how he became the knucklehead we love.
If you’ve got some “can’t put down” favorites from your 9-12 year old which didn’t make it here, please add it to our list in the comments section below.
