There are so many incredible middle grade historical fiction novels that center on World War II, which I absolutely love. But, I wanted to shine some love on some great historical fiction books that highlight some other historical events and eras that merit attention. In Light and Air, Halle and her mother are sent to… Continue reading Incredible Middle Grade Historical Fiction Books – Non WW2 Edition
Category: Book Recommendation
Book Recommendation: The Teacher of Nomad Land by Daniel Nayeri
Middle grade literature loves World War II, and many of the books written about it are incredible. But The Teacher of Nomad Land stands out among the crowd for its unique and under-represented perspective. That is, what was going on in countries not directly involved in the war, but tremendously affected by it - in… Continue reading Book Recommendation: The Teacher of Nomad Land by Daniel Nayeri
Incredible Middle Grade Books That Take Place in Washington State
We live in Washington State and it is always so fun when we come across a book that takes place there. It can serve as a beautiful, nature-filled backdrop, or allow to shed light on important subjects, such as Japanese internment or Indigenous identity. Check out these 12 books below that are not only great,… Continue reading Incredible Middle Grade Books That Take Place in Washington State
Book Recommendation: Starfish by Lisa Fipps
Starfish is a moving, honest, and hilarious novel-in-verse about a beautiful, vibrant, talented 11-year-old girl, Ellie, who also happens to be large bodied. She doesn't mind how she looks, but the others around her make sure to let her know that she is less-than because of her size. In this Printz Honor Book, we follow… Continue reading Book Recommendation: Starfish by Lisa Fipps
Book Recommendation: Whale Eyes by James Robinson
Whale Eyes is a beautiful, engaging, and interactive memoir sharing James's childhood as a kid with misaligned eyes. With interactive illustrations by Brian Rea, readers get to see how James sees; where books are held upside down, words jump across the page, strings are held up to eyes to look for an 'X'. Whale Eyes… Continue reading Book Recommendation: Whale Eyes by James Robinson
12 Incredible Middle Grade Reads to Celebrate Black History Month
February is Black History Month, so I've put together a list of incredible reads that celebrate, center, or explore Black history and lives. This list is by no means exhaustive, and I would love to hear your recommendations in the comments. All the Blues in the Sky by Renee Watson is the 2026 John Newbery… Continue reading 12 Incredible Middle Grade Reads to Celebrate Black History Month
Book Recommendation: Louder Than Hunger by John Schu
Louder Than Hunger took my breath away. It is a heartbreaking but inspiring novel in verse. It was a 2025 Schneider Family Book Award Honor, and I think it is a great read that leads to better understanding and compassion for kids who are having mental health struggles. I will read it with my children… Continue reading Book Recommendation: Louder Than Hunger by John Schu
2025 Newbery Award Winner: The First State of Being by Erin Entrada Kelly
The 2025 Newbery Award winner was announced in January, and the incredible honor went to The First State of Being by Erin Entrada Kelly. I had read this novel the previous year, and gave it a re-read once it received the Newbery Award. I enjoyed it even more on the second read. I highly recommend… Continue reading 2025 Newbery Award Winner: The First State of Being by Erin Entrada Kelly
5th Grader Book Recommendation: A Mango-Shaped Space by Wendy Mass
My 5th grade son's favorite book continues to be A Mango-Shaped Space by Wendy Mass. He read it in the 2nd grade, and it continues to persist as his favorite. Winner of the ALA Schneider Family Book Award - which honors books that embody an artistic expression of the disability experience for child and adolescent… Continue reading 5th Grader Book Recommendation: A Mango-Shaped Space by Wendy Mass
3rd Grader Book Recommendation: Nugly by M.C. Ross
My 3rd grade daughter wanted in on the book recommendations, so she has put together this recommendation for Nugly by M.C. Ross. I haven't had a chance to read this one myself, but I think kids looking for a gentle and heartwarming chapter book with the great message of loving yourself for what's on the… Continue reading 3rd Grader Book Recommendation: Nugly by M.C. Ross
Birdie's Bookshelf 