BEST OF 2017: Our Favorite Books for Middle-Grade Readers/Tweens

Unlike last year, we seem to have a few trends running throughout our favorite middle-grade reads of the year.

1. Oh, the poetry! Poetry had a good year in 2017, and not just in regard to MG books. But for this list, we were somehow able to narrow it down to just two titles—Kwame Alexander's gorgeous celebration of poets and poetry itself, and Chris Harris's hilarious romp that recalls  the best of Shel Silverstein. We think both books have the potential to become classics, and we're expecting some serious awards nods for Out of Wonder when Youth Media Awards time rolls around.
2. The graphic fantastic! Graphic novels were a big hit with us this year, though we couldn't include all the books we loved on this list (sorry, Jennifer Holm). But our final selection does feature three of them—two standout, wonderfully illustrated tales about the perils of middle school and an otherworldly sci-fi adventure that has us anxiously awaiting the sequel this May. 

That's not to say we don't have plenty of variety to choose from this year. There's the wonderful humor of Posted and the breathless intensity of Refugee. The quiet mystery of Beyond the Bright Sea, and the fantastical adventures of The Shadow Cipher. From the magical tale of a tree determined to help a friendless child to the gripping realism of a boy finding peace in LEGO constructions after his brother's murder, we hope every reader of middle-grade fiction or nonfiction will discover a book they love among our Best of 2017 list. We sure did!

The 2017 committee includes:

• Brandy T., Children's Programming and Outreach Library Specialist
• Heather, BCPL Public Relations Administrative Assistant
• Marianne, Reference Services, Ridgway Memorial Library
• Stephanie S., Reference Services, Hillview Branch Library
• Tracy (that's me), BCPL Public Relations Coordinator & Committee Organizer

FICTION

5 Worlds, Book 1: The Sand Warrior by Mark Segel
Heather says: So adorable! The world building is AWESOME, and it's a really exciting, fast-paced story.

All's Faire in Middle School by Victoria Jamieson
Heather says: So absolutely adorable! I loved this one. Perfect illustrations, and a story that really captures the innocence of being a tween—and how the real world can test that innocence.

Beyond the Bright Sea by Lauren Wolk
Heather says: I love this book! Wolk is amazing.
Tracy says: Wolk weaves an affecting tale full of heart and adventure, featuring an intrepid heroine, compelling relationships, and an intriguing setting.

Forever, or a Long, Long Time by Caela Carter
Heather says: The melting pot of this family and this life is SO real, especially for people who have experienced adoption and the foster system. A strong, vibrant voice and an effortlessly beautiful story. I devoured it in a matter of hours.
Marianne says: This is a heart-wrenching and mind-boggling book about a little girl who has been in the foster care system and is now learning to be part of a family. It's heart-wrenching because it happens all the time in real life...and it's mind-boggling because there ARE REAL LIFE children who have to shoulder the same trauma and struggle as our 11-year-old narrator, Flora. Thought-provoking and moving.

Gorilla Dawn by Gill Lewis
Heather says: This is a raw, violent story of fighting to survive and fighting for what's right. I loved the story, which will be great for older tween readers.
Steph says: Would you risk your life to save a baby gorilla? That is exactly what Imara and Bobo do. An inspirational story of courage and taking a stand, when what you have to lose is everything.

Hello, Universe by Erin Entrada Kelly
Heather says: A funny, clever tale with pieces that fit together perfectly like a predestined puzzle.

It All Comes Down to This by Karen English
Steph says: A wonderful coming of age story set in the 1960s. Sophie is dealing with relationships, both friendly and familial and trying to define herself amidst racism, sometimes even felt within her own home.

Me and Marvin Gardens by Amy Sarig King
Heather says: Obe is every twelve year old I knew. Obe is me, awkward but smart and compassionate, fine with being the outsider (mostly) but still a ball of anxiety over things he can't control. He and his family are so real and dysfunctional; the way he stands for what he believes despite his parents' dismissal resonates with me. This is a story about the devastation humans can bring about just by changing things. It isn't a warning to stop changing. Just a warning to be more compassionate, to care about every step you take. So beautifully and wonderfully done.
Steph says:  This book is a reminder that we should cherish our environment. A must read for fans of Hoot.

Posted by John David Anderson
Heather says: I love this book!!! I was blown away by how well-written this is, and how relatable the characters are.

Refugee by Alan Gratz
Tracy: Three stories of refugees—separated by time, place, and culture—are skillfully interwoven in this breathless tale of suspense. Each of the stories is powerful and compelling on its own, but the combined tale of parallel adventures, tragedies, and triumphs is absolutely stunning. Gratz does a masterful job of bringing the experiences of refugees to life, across generations and across continents, in a way that is heartbreakingly real but ultimately inspiring.

The Stars Beneath Our Feet by David Barclay Moore
Tracy says: This is a novel that doesn't shy away from complexities or fun, diverse characters, and the book is all the richer for it. Lolly's anger and sadness as he tries to move past his brother's death are stunningly real, and I was riveted by the poetic detail and vibrant characters that bring Lolly's Harlem neighborhood to life. An engrossing story about grief, imagination, choices, and finding hope in the face of hostile circumstances.

The War I Finally Won by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley
Tracy says: This is a nuanced, thoroughly enjoyable WWII-era fiction filled with wonderful characters and plenty of heart. The writing is so fluid and brimming with Ada's personality, I felt like her troubles and emotions were my own. It's a very quiet, character-driven story, and yet there is so much that happens, not to mention all of the inner struggles happening beneath Ada's brave, determined surface. This is a sequel to The War That Saved My Life, but it didn't even matter that I haven't read the first book—though I certainly intend to do so now!

Wishtree by Katherine Applegate
Tracy says: This book has a wonderful message about kindness, community, environmentalism, and speaking up in the face of injustice. Applegate has a way of infusing magic into the ordinary, and this quiet little book provides a near-perfect balance of humor and thoughtfulness.

The Shadow Cipher by Laura Ruby
Heather says: Smart, funny, and overflowing with personality. The world is a fascinating, steampunk-flavored miracle of imagination.
Stephanie says: I loved this adventure! This mystery/fantasy kept me captivated as I fell in love with Tess, Theo, and Jaime. Supported with facts, Ruby's book will have you wanting to move to New York City!

NONFICTION

Don't Read This Book Before Bed: Thrills, Chills, and Hauntingly True Stories
by Anna Claybourne
Tracy says: From vampire bats to haunted islands to alien species, this fascinating collection of facts and stories has something for everyone. And if the spine-tingling tales aren't enough on their own, the full-color spreads, astounding photographs, and interactive quizzes make this a surefire winner for anyone interested in the paranormal, the creepy, or the unusual.

I'm Just No Good at Rhyming and Other Nonsense for Mischievous Kids
and Immature Grown-ups by Chris Harris
Tracy says: These poems are so fun, and the illustrations and playful asides are the perfect complement! I loved every bit of this wonderfully wacky compilation. I guess you can add me to the "immature grown-ups" list!

Isaac the Alchemist: Secrets of Isaac Newton, Reveal'd by Mary Losure
Brandy says: This is a really great read. I was worried it would be way too factual and therefore boring, but I was wrong. I was worried about the science in this book being over my head and a turn off. Instead, I got a page-turning read and a better understanding of some of the science of Harry Potter. Also, 100% recommend the audiobook. 

Out of Wonder: Poems Celebrating Poets
by Kwame Alexander with Chris Colderley & Marjory Wentworth
Heather says: Stunning artwork in colors that speak as loud as the poems themselves. Some so beautiful they take your breath away. A short read; you could easily spend an entire day, soaking in the beauty of the words
Marianne says: The Newbery Award-winning author has paid tribute to famous poets by adopting their style. This is an interesting and educational book (I had to harken back to my middle school English classes when we studied poetry) which is also filled with lovely artwork. My number one favorite on the list. 

Pathfinders: The Journeys of 16 Extraordinary Black Souls by Tonya Bolden
Marianne says: For the category "People Marianne didn't learn about in school." Short and interesting biographies of fascinating people with big, bold dreams. I loved these history lessons!

Real Friends by Shannon Hale
Tracy says: Achingly real and slyly funny, this graphic memoir from a beloved author provides an honest portrait of the ups and downs of childhood friendships and sibling relationships. I was particularly intrigued by the parts about Shannon's inner imagination—perfectly conveyed by LeUyen Pham's vibrant illustrations—and her journey as a young writer and storyteller. 

Survivor's Club: The True Story of A Very Young Boy in Auschwitz 
by Michael Bornstein and‎ Debbie Bornstein Holinstat
Brandy says: This book will pull at your heartstrings for sure. It is a great place to start if you are interested in reading an account from a survivor of the Holocaust. It is as easy of a read as it can be for a Holocaust story. I highly recommend it!

SummerQuest 2017: 7 Guest Reviews from Middle-Grade Readers

SummerQuest is on! We're having a great summer at BCPL with events ranging from awesome makerspaces to gaming nights to an outdoor concert. But the heart of our summer library program will always be books and reading.

And we're so excited with the response we are receiving from the participants in our 10 in 10 Reading Challenge for Tweens, Teens, and Adults. Here are just a few of the book reviews we've received so far; more will be posted here over the month to come. A HUGE thanks to all of our guest reviewers for sharing!



Sisters by Raina Telgemeier
Reviewer: Victoria R., Age 10
Victoria's Rating: 4.5/5 Stars
Genre: Graphic Novel/Memoir
Audience: Middle Grade/Tween

Victoria's Summary & Review: The book Sisters is about two girls named Raina and Amara. Raina and Amara have to travel for a week in the car to Colorado when the incident comes up again.  I think this book is good because its about the sisters. The author is also creative. There is also a lot of drama between the two sisters.

*This book completes the Book By or About Someone I Admire challenge in Victoria's 10 in 10 Reading Challenge!

EXTRA: Tracy's Thoughts: This was my first Raina Telgemeier book, and I saw immediately why she has become so popular with both readers and reviewers. Her work is full of  heart and realistic relationships we can relate to. Here's what I had to say a few years ago, when Sisters made our Best of 2014 list:

In her follow-up to Smile, Telgemeier focuses on the ups and downs of her childhood relationship with her younger sister. The two are wildly different and have frequent battles, and yet they have one very important thing in common. Though there are frequent flashbacks to key moments, the narrative centers on a family road trip to attend a family reunion. The pacing, text, and expressive art are top-notch.

The Hunt for the Hundredth Key by Geronimo Stilton
Reviewer: Victoria R., Age 10
Victoria's Rating: 4.5/5 Stars
Genre: Mystery
Audience: Young Readers 

Victoria's Summary & Review: The book, The Hunt for the Hundredth Key, is about Geronimo Stilton wanting to write a book until his sister takes him to help solve a mystery. I like the book because the author is creative. Another reason is because of the characters, setting, and the mystery.

*This book completes the Book I Loved As a Child challenge in Victoria's 10 in 10 Reading Challenge!

The Baby Sitters Club by Raina Telgemeier
Reviewer: Victoria R., Age 10
Victoria's Rating: 4/5 Stars
Genre: Graphic Novel
Audience: Middle Grade/Tween

Victoria's Summary & Review: The book, The Baby-Sitter's Club, is about Claudia, Janine, and a baby-sitters club. Claudia and her friends want to baby-sit while Janine wants to study until an accident comes up. I enjoyed the book because of the setting, characters, and the author. The setting is outside and I like the outside, so that is why I like the setting. I like the characters because they are caring. I like the author, Raina Telgemeier, because she is creative.

*This book completes the Graphic Novel challenge in Victoria's 10 in 10 Reading Challenge!

Maybe a Fox by Kathi Appelt
Reviewer: Katelynn W., Age 11
Victoria's Rating: 5/5 Stars
Genre: Realistic Fiction
Audience: Middle Grade/Tween

Victoria's Summary & Review: This book is about a sister who loses her older sister while she was running to fast, so she slipped and fell into the slip. Her younger sister has help with her soul animal to find out why her sister had wanted to run faster. I liked this book, Maybe a Fox, because the author, Kathi Appelt, showed emotion well while writing. I also like how she describe every little detail. She also described each personality of the sisters really well. This is why I like the book Maybe a Fox by Kathi Appelt.

*This book completes the BCPL Staff Pick challenge in Katelynn's 10 in 10 Reading Challenge!

Rutabaga The Adventure Chef...Feasts of Fury by Eric Colossal
Reviewer: Katelynn W., Age 11
Victoria's Rating: 3.5/5 Stars
Genre: Graphic Novel
Audience: Middle Grade/Tween

Victoria's Summary & Review: Rutabaga continues his mission to find exotic foods for his dishes. While trying to do this, he runs into all sorts of messes. While being a chief he gets taken and forced to work as a chief for an evil goblin. The book was okay because the author didn't show any emotion while writing. Also, I don't really like comics. Another thing is that the characters don't really develop. This is why I think the book was okay.

*This book completes the Graphic Novel challenge in Katelynn's 10 in 10 Reading Challenge!

Death by Toilet Paper by Donna Gephart
Reviewer: Katelynn W., Age 11
Victoria's Rating: 4.5/5 Stars
Genre: Realistic Fiction/Comedy
Audience: Middle Grade/Tween

Victoria's Summary & Review: This book is about a kid who enters sweepstakes to earn something for his mom, because their dad died and they are put on eviction at their apartment for not paying the rent on time. I like this book because the author, Donna Gephart, puts good emotion into her writing. She also does a good job explaining how things happen in a different way than most authors do. This makes her writing enjoyable. This is why I think you should read the book Death by Toilet Paper.

*This book completes the Book Your Friends Love challenge in Katelynn's 10 in 10 Reading Challenge!

Middle School Escape to Australia by James Patterson
Reviewer: Katelynn W., Age 11
Victoria's Rating: 4.5/5 Stars
Genre: Realistic Fiction/Comedy
Audience: Middle Grade/Tween

Victoria's Summary & Review: This book is about a kid named Rafe who wins an art competition and wins a trip to Australia. There he finds a group called the outsiders which he fits right into. He then makes a piece of art to display. What the people don't know is that he has a bigger surprise coming. The book, Middle School Escape to Australia, is something you should read. First the author, James Patterson, does a really good job on showing emotion. Also, he does a good job on describing the characters. Not to mention he has a really good plot. He also does a good job on the setting. He makes the setting fit the story. This is why I think the book Middle School Escape to Australia is a good book to read.

*This book completes the Book Published in 2017 challenge in Katelynn's 10 in 10 Reading Challenge!

BEST OF 2016: Our Favorite Books for Middle-Grade Readers/Tweens

From a shipwrecked robot story to the true tale of a child survivor of the Nagasaki bomb, our 2016 selections are all about variety. There's the wonderful humor of The Best Man and the breathless intensity of The Plot to Kill Hitler. The heartwrenching beauty of Maybe a Fox, and the fun-filled adventure of Mighty Jack.

We hope every reader of middle-grade fiction or nonfiction will discover a book they love among our Best of 2016 list. We sure did!

The 2016 committee includes:

• Allison, BCPL Outreach & Programming Supervisor
• Cheryl, Assistant Branch Manager, Ridgway Memorial Library
• Marianne, Reference Services, Ridgway Memorial Library
• Tracy (that's me), BCPL Public Relations Coordinator & Committee Organizer

Fiction

As Brave as You by Jason Reynolds

Allison says:
Realistic characters, wonderfully developed. I am a fan of Reynolds, but I was worried since this is his first foray into middle-grade. He did a great job transitioning from YA; this was excellent.

Marianne says:
A nice story about city kids (brothers) and a slow-moving summer spent with Grandparents on a remote farm in Virginia. They learn about family, friendship, and consequences.

 

The Best Man by Richard Peck

Cheryl says:
Hilarious and fast-paced, this story is told convincingly from a boy’s point of view. I laughed and laughed. I especially love the relationships Archer has with the four men in his life!

 

Booked by Kwame Alexander

I say:
Anyone who loves words, books, or puns will be unable to resist Booked. It's a fun and engaging read, a whirlwind of short poems that fit together to form the story of Nick's eighth-grade experiences, from his parents' breakup to soccer victories and his first crush. And who doesn't love a story featuring a rapping librarian as a side character?

Marianne says:
I listened to the audiobook and was mesmerized by the style and rhythm of the poetry and enthralled with the story.

Garvey's Choice by Nikki Grimes

I say:
There were so many wonderful middle-grade novels in verse this past year, including Booked (a fellow 2016 Best Book) and Catching a Storyfish (which just missed the cut). What makes this one stand out for me is the stereotype-breaking hero. I also really enjoyed the tanka poetry style, along with Grimes's explanation at the end of the book.

Marianne says:
A short and sweet coming-of-age story told in verse.

Ghost by Jason Reynolds

I say:
Totally gripping from beginning to end. Reynolds covers so much in this relatively slim novel that clocks in at under 200 pages. The story feels both timeless and entirely modern. I am so excited that this is the beginning of a new series!

 

Ghosts by Raina Telgemeier

I say:
I really loved Raina Telgemeier's portrayal of sisterhood in Sisters, and Ghosts is just as good, with the added benefit of...well, ghosts.

 

The Inquisitor's Tale by Adam Gidwitz, illus. by Hatem Aly

Allison says:
I couldn't put it down. Went to bed intending to read a chapter or two. Ended up not going to sleep and finished it in one sitting. I didn't want it to end. I like the Canterbury Tales feel of different narrators, always making it fresh. The tension was nail-biting. Can we say medal-worthy?

The Land of Forgotten Girls by Erin Entrada Kelly

Allison says:
Powerful, inspiring, uplifting. I LOVED this one!

Marianne says:
I'm a big fat mom, so I had to overcome my horror at the two sisters who were abandoned and left in the care of an abusive "stepmother"...once I was able to set that aside, I really was fascinated at the imaginations of those two little girls.

Maybe a Fox by Kathi Appelt and Alison McGhee

Allison says:
I don't cry reading books. Or watching sappy movies, or commercials. I bawled like a baby reading this. Which was even more problematic since I was reading it in public. This was gut-wrenchingly wonderful for me. If it doesn't receive a Newbery, my faith in humanity is gone.

Mighty Jack by Ben Hatke

Allison says:
I really like this one, and the artwork is dramatically good. Is the next book in the series out yet??????

Ms. Bixby's Last Day by John David Anderson

Allison says:
MOVING is not the word. I don't generally like to read about someone's struggle with disease, but this one drew me in. Realistic fiction is not usually something middle-grade authors do well, but this is amazing!

Pax by Sara Pennypacker, illus. by John Klassen

I say:
Pennypacker writes with an insightful lyricism that is simply stunning. Also, I love that Pax perceives and acts like a real fox, not a standard children's book animal who thinks and acts more like a human.

Raymie Nightingale by Kate DiCamillo

I say:
Yet another standout middle-grade novel from two-time Newbery-winner Kate DiCamillo. The writing is crisp and energetic despite the quiet story. I adored Raymie and the quick, unexpected friendship she builds with her fellow baton-twirling students. There are so many small moments in this book to love.

The Wild Robot by Peter Brown

I say:
Oh my goodness, the illustrations in this book! The design of the book is simply beautiful, as is the story. A wonderful mix of reflection and action, with short, punchy chapters to keep readers in thrall.

Wolf Hollow by Lauren Wolk

Allison says:
I like the setting, the description of the town, and the way Annabelle's parents take to Toby. There's a bit of  a To Kill a Mockingbird feel to the story and characterizations.

Nonfiction

Echo Echo: Reverso Poems about Greek Myths by Marilyn Singer, illus. by Josée Masse

Allison says:
The illustrations are gorgeous, and I like the two narrator approach and the rhythmic flow of the poems, their arrangement in the collection. Some prior knowledge of Greek mythology might make it even more enjoyable, but the notes for those who aren't into mythology are helpful.

Jazz Day: The Making of a Famous Photograph by Roxanne Orgill, illus. by Frances Vallejo

I say:
The concept behind this book is so inventive! The illustrations are fantastic, and the (mostly) free-form poetry perfectly evokes the spirit of jazz music. Plus, the short bios and further reading suggestions in the back matter provide a path for those who wish to learn more.
Allison says:
I'm not usually a fan of poems, but this was neat. Each poem led to the next, adding up to tell the story of the gathering of the musicians from the photograph.

The Plot to Kill Hitler: Dietrich Bonhoeffer: Pastor, Spy, Unlikely Hero
by Patricia McCormick

Allison says:
HOLY cow!! I loved this. Faced-paced nonfiction/biography that reads like awesome fiction? Who knew it was not only possible, but that the reader would forget it was nonfiction? This book definitely left me thinking and wondering,

A Poem for Peter by Andrea Davis Pinkney, illus. by Lou Fancher & Steve Johnson

I say:
Wonderful. Of all the spectacular poetic works I've read this year, this is the one that most stands out for me. It's such a loving, fascinating tribute to Ezra Jack Keats and the impact of his work.

Sachiko: A Nagasaki Bomb Survivor's Story by Caren Stelson

I say:
This is such a powerful book that puts a face on an under-examined moment in US-Japanese history and the longlasting consequences for Japanese survivors in Nagasaki and Hiroshima. The story is very readable, and the book is laid out perfectly to provide age-appropriate context with informative sidebars, photographs, etc. Important, harrowing, and beautifully done.

*Available on Hoopla*

Some Writer!: The Story of E.B. White by Melissa Sweet

Allison says:
FANTABULOUS!! The story flows from page to page, with bold artwork and personal commentary from White. This feels like you are sitting in someone's living room looking at their—amazing!— personal scrapbook.

The Way Things Work Now by David Macauley

I say:
I was so glad to see the late-90s classic guide updated to include the digital age! Curious kids who like building and technology or simply want to understand the way things work will love Macauley's way of illustrating complex concepts. Engaging text and illustrations make it a joy to browse, or you can focus on whatever category interests you, from simple machines to digital devices and Wi-Fi,