Plus, most kids love the idea of helping out in the kitchen, creating their own culinary masterpieces, and getting a chance to try out all those fun kitchen tools. (I’m an adult, and I still love getting to cut things, use a fancy kitchen gadget, and pull something delicious out of the oven.)

If you have a budding chef who not only wants to help out in the kitchen, but also wants a cookbook of their own, these eight are definite winners. Some are based on famous works of children’s literature, which makes them even more fun. Bon appétit!

no no 9781883672065 Pretend Soup and Other Real Recipes by Mollie Katzen and Ann Henderson

This book puts children in the driver’s seat by providing them with simple, wholesome, and healthy recipes they can make (with an adult’s help). They will learn counting, measuring, and food literacy as they make yummy meals.
(Ages 3 – 7)

9780593659533 Bluey and Bingo’s Fancy Restaurant Cookbook by Penguin Young Readers Licenses

Little Bluey fans can make their favorite foods from the popular Disney+ television show. Whether your child wants to make Dad’s birthday omelet or Nana’s ice blocks, you will find simple, easy-to-follow instructions for 13 delicious dishes.
(Ages 4 – 7)

9780744073980 Children’s Quick and Easy Cookbook by Angela Wilkes

This book is an excellent pick for kids who want to try a variety of recipes, from snacks and desserts to main dishes. Simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions make the 60 recipes in this book ideal for budding chefs.
(Ages 5 – 7)

9781948703222 My First Cookbook edited by America’s Test Kitchen Kids

This awesome new cooking collection will inspire the youngest chefs to enter the kitchen, empower them to cook, and engage their creativity. It offers simple after-school snacks, family meals, and holiday celebration recipes for beginner cooks.
(Ages 5 – 8)

9780525612247 Baking Wonderland by Jean Parker and Rachel Smith

Baking is one of the first things young children do in the kitchen, and this book invites them to mix up tasty treats for the oven. From cookies and cupcakes to frostings and toppings, children will love making all the delicious recipes featured in this book!
(Ages 5 – 9)

9781368060738 The Disney Princess Cookbook by Disney Books

Cook up enchanting main dishes, desserts, and breakfasts with this Disney Princess-inspired cookbook! Young chefs will stir up some magic as they learn the basics of the kitchen and follow beginner-friendly recipes — all with the help of their favorite princesses.
(Ages 6 – 8)

9781368074971 The Disney Christmas Cookbook by Joy Howard and Disney Books

Add an extra helping of magic to your holiday cooking with this Disney cookbook. Kids will find festive recipes inspired by their favorite movies, shows, and characters. From Pooh Bear’s Mini Honey Buns to Encanto-inspired Arepas, young sous chefs will discover dozens of dishes to liven up the holidays.
(Ages 6 – 8)

9780525579595 Cook It! The Dr. Seuss Cookbook for Kid Chefs by Daniel Gercke, photographed by Christopher Testani

If your kid wants to try green eggs and ham, roast beast, or any of the other wacky foods from Dr. Seuss’s beloved books, this cookbook is a must-have. With over 50 recipes kids will recognize from their favorite stories, this unique cookbook will have them stirring up edible creations in no time.
(Ages 7 and up)

9781639623181 The Ultimate Science Cookbook for Kids by Highlights

Cooking is science, and this cookbook leans into experimenting in the kitchen with exciting and sometimes explosive recipes. With over 75 edible science experiments to try, kids will have no problem finding a fun recipe to keep them occupied.
(Ages 7 and up)

9781465435460 Complete Children’s Cookbook by DK

This book will keep you and your sous chef (or is it the other way around?) plenty busy — there are over 150 exciting recipes to try. Plan a six-course meal for a special occasion, or have a quiet Saturday morning baking muffins. You can’t go wrong!
(Ages 7 – 10)

9781623547547 Plant, Cook, Eat! by Joe Archer and Caroline Craig

This awesomely comprehensive cookbook takes kids back to square one by showing them how to grow ingredients at home. Whether your family is interested in starting a home garden or you’ve got a green-thumbed kiddo who’s jonesing for more independence, Plant, Cook, Eat! is the deliciously holistic answer.
(Ages 7 – 10)

You might also like:

• Children’s Books About Cuisine Around the World
• A Batter Idea: 9 Tasty Baking Cookbooks for Kids
• Eating the Rainbow: 10 Picture Books About Fruits and Vegetables
• Pizza vs. Taco Books: Which Are Better?

Editor’s Note: This post was originally published in 2015 and updated in 2024.

The post Books for Budding Chefs: <br> Great Cookbooks for Little Kids appeared first on Brightly.

Get ready for a fantastic new year with these standout releases—spanning memoir, fantasy, romance, thrillers, and more.

no no 9780593897720 Room to Breathe by Kasie West

Kasie West continues to deliver some of the best clean romance books for teens. Indy and Beau were once inseparable — until something happened that caused Indy to shut everyone out. After months of silence, the two get trapped together in the school bathroom, forcing them to finally confront what drove them apart.

9798217024223 Tidespeaker by Sadie Turner

Corith can command water with her words — an incredible gift with a bleak future. She’s thrilled when she’s hired by a wealthy family, but grows wary when she learns the last person in her position died under mysterious circumstances.

9798217117772 Lovely One (Adapted for Young Adults) by Ketanji Brown Jackson

This YA adaptation of Ketanji Brown Jackson’s memoir traces her journey from childhood to becoming the first Black woman appointed to the U.S. Supreme Court.

9780593811023 I Don’t Wish You Well by Jumata Emill

Five years ago, four teen boys were murdered — and the case went cold. As Pryce investigates the unsolved crime for his podcast, he uncovers crucial clues that were overlooked the first time around.

9798217004942 Sundown Girls by L.S. Stratton

Spooky, mysterious, and utterly gripping. When Naomi and her family visit Sparksburg, she can’t shake the feeling that something is very wrong — or the awful smell she keeps encountering. As she digs into the town’s past, she discovers a far more twisted history than she imagined.

9798217024469 Carnival Fantástico by Angela Montoya

Esmeralda poses as the carnival’s fortune-teller—using her charm and wit to play the part. But when her former crush Ignacio reappears to warn her that the carnival is more dangerous than it seems, everything she thought she knew is thrown off course.

9798217002610 Sibylline by Melissa de la Cruz

Three friends share a dream: to attend the world’s most prestigious magical university. All three are rejected — so instead, they decide to steal the education they believe they deserve.

9798217027033 Coming Home (Adapted for Young Adults) by Brittney Griner and Michelle Burford

In this YA adaptation, teens can follow Brittney Griner’s extraordinary journey — from her early athletic success to her harrowing experience in a Russian prison and her resilience along the way.

9780593889244 Limelight by Andrew Keenan-Bolger

Fifteen-year-old Danny is used to staying in the background. But after he auditions for — and is accepted into — a prestigious Manhattan performing arts school, he must find the courage to step into the spotlight.

9780593859476 When I Was Death by Alexis Henderson

Roslyn’s world is shattered after the inexplicable death of her younger sister, Adeline. When Adeline’s friends return to town, Roslyn is determined to befriend them and uncover the truth about what really happened.

9798217040506 Her Hidden Fire by Cliodhna O’Sullivan

Perfect for “romantasy” fans. Eadha, a lowly servant girl with forbidden magic, uses her abilities to help Lonain fake magical talent — sending them both to a powerful academy where Eadha must keep her secret at all costs.

9780593860106 Prodigal Tiger by Samantha Chong

Caroline is used to living in exile to protect her family from her dangerous magic. But when she’s suddenly summoned home after her brother’s mysterious disappearance, she must confront the truth about the island she once knew.

9798217006120 The Escape Game by Marissa Meyer and Tamara Moss

After the shocking on-set death of Alicia during Season 4 of the hit TV series The Escape Game, production resumes with a new cast. As contestants tackle the show’s intense escape rooms, Sierra joins with a secret mission: uncovering what really happened to Alicia.

9798217231591 Soundtrack: A Novel by Jason Reynolds

Jason Reynolds returns with a powerful new novel. Stuy loves playing drums, just like his mom. As she teaches him more about music, Stuy and his friends start performing in the underground subway scene — quickly becoming an unexpected sensation.

9780593905180 Young World by Soman Chainani

What if eight countries suddenly put teenagers in charge? After Benton’s video announcing his presidential ambitions goes viral — and succeeds — he travels to a global teen summit. But when one delegate fails to wake up, Benton becomes the prime suspect.

9798217113026 The Secret World of Briar Rose by Cindy Pham

The city of Glydan has slept for a century — its heir included. Elly believes the legend of the sleeping princess is true and sets out to find her. Corin, her skeptical sister, joins the search, plunging into the underground tunnels beneath the city. Hope, suspense, and heartbreak intertwine in this unforgettable tale.

The post The Must-Read New Young Adult Books of 2026 appeared first on Brightly.

Get ready for some absolutely excellent new middle grade and chapter books. From graphic novels to fantasy, adventure to detective work, there’s truly something for every reader on this list.

no no 9780593691991 Alice with a Why by Anna James, illustrated by Matthew Land

A delightful retelling of Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland hits the book scene and can’t be missed. Alyce with a Y — granddaughter of the original Alice — receives a mysterious invitation to a tea party and quickly discovers that her grandmother’s wild tales might not have been so wild after all.

9798217023776 A Sea Monster Conundrum (The Misfits) by Lisa Yee, illustrated by Dan Santat

The Misfits are back! This kid-favorite series follows a team of powerful, crime-fighting misfits. This time, something strange is lurking near the bay — ghosts? A sea monster? Something in the fog? It’s up to the Misfits to crack the case.

9798217005758 Unfairies: A Graphic Novel by Huw Aaron

These are not your typical fairies. Forget sparkles and sweetness — these fairies are rude, messy, and constantly squabbling as they vie for power. Perfect for Dog Man fans, this graphic novel is chaotic fun from start to finish.

9780593624555 The Moon Without Stars by Chanel Miller

Luna has never been popular, and she’s fine with that. She likes hanging out with her best friend and making zines. But when one of her zines suddenly goes viral, she’s launched into middle-school fame. Will she stay true to herself amid all the newfound attention?

9780593811672 X Marks the Haunt by Lindsay Currie

Twelve-year-old Will knows a lot about death thanks to his mom’s job at the graveyard. But when a 100-year-old crypt key goes missing, strange things begin happening: trees die, the lake fills with dangerous algae, and the whole town is on edge. Can Will uncover whether the lost key is connected?

9798217031047 Murray the Pirate by Adam Stower

This unlikeliest duo — a bunny and a cat — is back for another adventure, this time in pirate territory. But trouble hits fast when they’re kidnapped and given a choice: help find hidden treasure or walk the plank.

9798217115686 Unstoppable Us, Volume 3: How Enemies Become Friends by Yuval Noah Harari, illustrated by Ricard Zaplana Ruiz

For readers fascinated by how cultures and civilizations came to be, this third installment of Unstoppable Us explores how people from different lands came together to build new societies. Engaging, informative, and endlessly fascinating.

9780593858080 Goodbye, French Fry by Rin-rin Yu

Ping-Ping often feels stuck between two worlds — surprising Americans with how American she is, while disappointing her Chinese family for not being Chinese enough. The one place she feels truly herself is taekwondo. Filled with family, culture, and friendship, this story offers a meaningful window into a life that may be very different from readers’.

9780593811788 Aku: Journey to Ibra by Micah Johnson

Aku can’t believe his luck when a mysterious space helmet appears in his basement. Could putting it on be be his chance to become an astronaut? Or will he land in a mess much bigger than dealing with the school bully?

9798217126279 Girls Like Me by Rebel Girls

This nonfiction collection features 100 real stories from girls around the world. It’s an inspiring way for young readers to broaden their understanding of different cultures, communities, and lived experiences.

9780593303054 Harper Sharp: Kid Detective by Jarrett Williams

Detective books never seem to get old! Funny, clever, and packed with vibrant illustrations, this first installment follows Harper Sharp as she takes on mysteries big and small. Grab this for any kid who loves graphic novels and detective stories.

9780593859865 Phoenix by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley

Calling all horse lovers! Harper hates her parents’ divorce, that she had to move, and especially that her new house is next to a riding barn. Then a sickly horse is dropped into her life. She must decide whether to let it go… or fight to bring it back to health.

9780593897829 Squirrel Lock Holmes #1: The Pet Rock Mystery by Ashley Belote

A hilarious spin on Sherlock Holmes. Detective Squirrel Lock Holmes and his sidekick, Mole Watson, are on the case of a missing pet rock. Yes, a pet rock! This book is silly, wacky, and full of laughs.

9780593812969 You’re a Winner, Gracie Wei by Kristen Mei Chase, illustrated by Basia Tran

Gracie must win the school spelling bee. She’s the only one in her family (including her baby brother) who hasn’t made it onto the Wei family’s Special Wall. But standing between her and victory is one obstacle: the super smart Elena Yarberry.

9780593485583 When Tomorrow Burns by Tae Keller

Three childhood friends once found comfort in a mysterious book of prophecies. As they grow and drift apart, they forget about the book — until the final prophecy of fire begins to come true. To stop the wildfires, they’ll need to work together, even if they’re no longer on speaking terms.

9798217031429 Last Day Pool Party by Emma Steinkellner

From the author of The Okay Witch comes a hilarious, drama-filled graphic novel about a group of middle schoolers trying to navigate one unforgettable, chaotic pool party on the last day of school.

9780593526835 The Last Comics on Earth: Across the Doodleverse by Max Brallier and Joshua Pruett, illustrated by Jay Cooper

The final installment in this graphic-novel series looks so good! The gang faces a whole new challenge — an army of animated sketches threatening to take over. Can they stop the doodle invasion before it’s too late?

9780593691939 Chronicles of Whetherwhy: The Season of Flames by Anna James, illustrated by David Wyatt

The second book in the Chronicles of Whetherwhy series brings readers more magic, royalty, circus intrigue, and mystery. Middle grade fantasy fans won’t want to put this one down.

9780593890721 The Shark Prince by Malia Maunakea

Nohea is half human, half shark, just like his dad. After his father kills a surfer and disappears, Nohea fears he’s destined for the same fate. To support his family before his shark instincts take over, he enters a surfing competition, hoping to win enough money to keep them afloat.

9780593699058 Roar by Varsha Bajaj

Rohan adores animals, especially tigers. Visiting the tiger sanctuary where his grandfather works is a dream come true — until he discovers threats from poachers and a potential mining operation company trying to shut the sanctuary down. Determined to help, he sets out to educate anyone who will listen about protecting these incredible animals.

The post The Most-Anticipated Middle Grade and Chapter Books of 2026 appeared first on Brightly.

Here you will find graphic novels, realistic fiction, fantasy, books in a series, and books that will have your young reader laughing their head off. Grab a bookmark and get ready to read!

no no 9798217002405 The Midwatch Institute for Wayward Girls by Judith Rossell

Send your reader on a mystery-solving adventure with the students at the Midwatch Institute for Wayward Girls. Maggie never expected to become a mystery-solving, bad-guy-catching detective, but that’s precisely what she learns to do at the institute. When a woman vanishes, Maggie and her new friends set out to solve the case. This funny and adventurous novel is sure to become a favorite among young readers!
Ages 8 – 12

9798217113217 Dragonborn by Struan Murray

Amazon’s Best Children’s Books of 2025

Alex’s life is about to change more than she ever expected. Frustrated with her mother’s overbearing strictness, Alex lets out a heated scream and discovers she can transform into a fiery dragon! Now, at a school for kids like her, Alex must learn to harness her new abilities and defend the human world against a growing threat.
Ages 8 – 12

9780593523957 Whale Eyes by James Robinson, illustrated by Brian Rea

Are you looking for a middle grade book that isn’t the regular run-of-the-mill? This is the one. It is a memoir told through stories and interactive visuals, allowing readers to see the world through the author’s disabling eye conditions. This unique book is perfect for book lovers who want an interactive experience.
Ages 10+

9780593699140 Amina Banana and the Formula for Friendship by Shifa Saltagi Safadi, illustrated by Aaliya Jaleel

When Amina moves with her family from Syria to Indiana, she comes up with the perfect formula to make friends at her new school. But starting over in a new place is more difficult than she anticipated. Spunky, determined, and lovable, this STEM-loving girl is perfect for fans of series like Jada Jones and Yasmin.
Ages 6 – 9

9780593959305 The Green Kingdom by Cornelia Funke and Tammi Hartung, illustrated by Melissa Castrillón

International, award-winning, and New York Times best-selling children’s author of The Inkheart Trilogy Cornelia Funke pens a story about twelve-year-old Caspia who has to spend the entire summer with her parents in Brooklyn. She hates big cities, especially New York – too many people, too loud, too dirty. When she discovers mysterious, old letters from a girl who traveled the world with her botanist father, each one opening with a puzzle, Caspia soon finds herself on a quest to solve them all.
Ages 8 – 12

9780593809907 The Poisoned King by Katherine Rundell, illustrated by Ashley Mackenzie

Target’s Young Reader Book of the Year 2025

The Impossible Creatures series started with a bang, and this sequel is just as amazing! Christopher and Anya have a new, very large problem! Poison is spreading across the Archipelago, and they must figure out where it’s coming from. To do that, they face some pretty hairy, dangerous challenges.
Ages 10+

9780593351130 Cassi and the House of Memories: A Graphic Novel by Dean Stuart

Cassi and her grandfather are very close and love spending time together. So, when her grandfather goes missing from the backyard, Cassi is determined to figure out what happened to him. To find him, Cassi ventures into a world filled with memories of which she has no recollection.
Ages 8 – 12

9780593564226 A Copycat Conundrum (The Misfits) by Lisa Yee, illustrated by Dan Santat

The Misfits may be an awkward group of kids fighting crime, but they pass with flying colors whenever they receive a new mission. However, Zeke, the nicest kid in the school, receives some threatening notes while earthquakes send ripples through San Francisco. Do the two things correlate, or is it a coincidence?
Ages 8 – 12

9780735230613 Creaky Acres: A Graphic Novel by Calista Brill and Nilah Magruder, illustrated by Nilah Magruder

Nora is used to living in her suburban area with her close group of friends. But her world is turned upside down when her mom accepts a job in a poor, rural area. She must adjust to being the new kid at school and attending a new barn called Creaky Acres, where she continues her horseback riding hobby.
Ages 8 – 12

9780451479754 A Hero’s Guide to Summer Vacation by Pablo Cartaya

Gonzalo feels apprehensive about going on a nationwide tour with his estranged author grandfather, yet his mom gives him no choice. Soon after the dreaded trip begins, Gonzalo realizes that the things he thought were fantasy might be real. Suddenly, Gonzalo finds himself on an unexpected and thrilling adventure with his grandfather!
Ages 8 – 12

9780593643877 A World Without Summer by Nicholas Day, illustrated by Yas Imamura

Nicholas Day writes terrific middle grade non-fiction that kids find irresistible (don’t miss his book The Mona Lisa Vanishes). This new title about the catastrophic eruption of Tambora in Indonesia covers everything from the eruption itself to the lasting impact. It’s perfect for non-fiction lovers who want to know what happened during the event.
Ages 10 – 14

9780593649664 Earl & Worm #1: The Bad Idea and Other Stories by Greg Pizzoli

You can’t read a Greg Pizzoli book without laughing! This story follows the most unlikely pair — a bird and a worm, as they deal with each other’s very different likes and dislikes. Will they ever become friends? (Spoiler: yes, they will!)
Ages 4 – 8

9780593568293 How to Say Goodbye in Cuban by Daniel Miyares

A Publishers Weekly Best Book of the Year 2025

After living his entire life in the countryside, Carlos finds himself in the city when his father wins the lottery. But money doesn’t fix everything, especially when Fidel Castro takes power in Cuba and Carlos’s father mysteriously disappears. Can his family escape to America, where his father is supposedly living?
Ages 8 – 12

9780525579045 The Library of Unruly Treasures by Jeanne Birdsall, illustrated by Matt Phelan

Penderwick lovers rejoice! The beloved author is back with a brand new book starring Gwen MacKinnon, who has truly dreadful parents. They’re so awful that she’s thrilled to stay with her Uncle Matthew, even though she’s never met him. And like any great children’s classic, with the parents out of the way, magical things happen!
Ages 8 – 12

9780593754085 Bridget Vanderpuff and the Baked Escape #1 by Martin Stewart, illustrated by David Habben

If you are looking for something wacky, full of imagination, adventure, and fun, this is the middle grade book to grab. Bridget is the last orphan at her orphanage until Mr. Vanderpuff, the local baker, wants to become Bridget’s guardian. But naturally, there are some bizarre and rib-tickling bumps in the road!
Ages 8 – 12

9780593813768 Bubblegum Shoes: The Case of the Contraband Closet by Goldy Moldavsky

If your child loves a good mystery, don’t miss this start to a new series where Maya Mendoza pays close attention to everything that goes on at her middle school. And it’s a good thing, too, because when the Contraband Closet gets robbed, it’s up to her to solve the case!
Ages 8 – 12

9780593616321 Time Lions and the Chrono-Loop by Krystal Sutherland and Martin Seneviratne

Twelve-year-old twins, Pearl and Patrick, are brilliant young inventors. They have invented all sorts of outlandish things, and recently discovered time travel! After returning from Egypt, where Pearl killed a mosquito, they realize that even a simple action can alter history as we know it!
Ages 10+

9780593306963 School Dance by Sarah Sax

The newest installment in the Brinkley Yearbooks graphic novels series is here! This book follows Milo, who feels nervous about the school dance because he’s cursed. That’s right — whenever he tries to dance, things go horribly wrong. He needs some help from his best friends and abuela to break the curse.
Ages 8 – 12

9798217031016 Murray the Knight by Adam Stower

If you have a Dog Man lover in your home, you don’t want to miss this read-alike illustrated series. This first book follows a cat and a bunny who end up in a jousting competition! Silly, hilarious, and chock full of fantastic illustrations, your young reader will fall head over heels for this one!
Ages 6 – 9

9780593617939 The Burning Season by Caroline Starr Rose

Opal has a secret: she is deathly afraid of fire. That’s a big problem because she’s training to become a fourth-generation lookout on Wolf Mountain. Opal, her mom, and her grandmother live atop a fire tower watching for any sign of smoke so they can prevent wildfires from burning out of control. When she is left alone and must sound the wildfire alarm, will she be brave enough to face her fears?
Ages 10+

9780593698549 Candle Island by Lauren Wolk

Lauren Wolk has established herself as an incredible historical fiction writer, and her newest book is exceptional. Lucretia and her mother escape to a tiny island in Maine to avoid journalists and the memory of the car crash that killed Lucretia’s father. But the island has secrets too, and she soon finds herself pulled into a mystery.
Ages 10+

The post The Best Middle Grade & Chapter Books of 2025 appeared first on Brightly.

Jump To: Just for Fun | Mystery & Thriller | Fantasy | Contemporary Fiction | Sci-Fi

yes no Just for Fun: 9780143136941 30 Days of Creativity by Johanna Basford

Send your teen (or yourself) on a creative journey with this whimsical book from Johanna Basford. In it, you’ll find doodle prompts, coloring pages, drawing guides, and art advice from Johanna herself. It’s the perfect way to disconnect from social media and reconnect with yourself.

9780593435670 Would You Rather? Teen Challenge Edition by Lindsay Daly

Give the gift of screen-free fun with this game book of funny and thought-provoking questions. Each page poses a “Would you rather?” question that teens take turns answering. It’s set up to work like a game but can also be enjoyed independently. It’s perfect for sleepovers, parties, and conversation starters.

9798217229246 Cozy Vibes by Coco Wyo

My family discovered this line of coloring books this year, and my four kids can’t get enough of them. The pictures are darling and detailed, but not so detailed that they’re overwhelming! My kids love coloring the pages while I read aloud to them, and I love this cozy fall edition!

9780593690420 Essential Life Skills for Girls by Lisa Quirk Weinman and Megan Monaghan, illustrated by Martha Sue Coursey

I love a good, relatable life skills book, and this one is exceptional. Geared towards girls aged 10-14, it comes with challenges and checklists for girls to complete, teaching them essential life skills before they leave home and enter adulthood.

9780593722497 The World of Minecraft by Mojang AB

Do you have a gamer in your life who would love to grow their Minecraft knowledge? This book covers everything you need to know about this incredibly popular game, from how it started to how the community grew. Read it all here!

9781786789921 Dear Reader: An Immersive Literary Journey Through Taylor Swift’s Lyrics by Viktoria Capek

Calling all Swifties! Filled with journaling prompts, gorgeous pictures, and lyric easter eggs galore, this interactive journal will have your teen swooning and singing!

yes no Mystery & Thriller: 9780593904879 And the River Drags Her Down by Jihyun Yun

Soonjin knows bringing her sister back from the dead goes against the rules of her ancestral magic. But she will do anything to get Mirae back. At first, Mirae seems content, but she soon grows restless. As she unravels terrible truths about their family, the town becomes plagued with bizarre deaths. Soonjin soon realizes that resurrecting her sister was the biggest mistake of her life.

9780593899168 We Fell Apart by E. Lockhart

You probably know E. Lockhart’s incredibly popular book, We Were Liars. This stunning spin-off novel returns to that world with another mystery filled with twists, turns, and gobs of lies that will have you on the edge of your seat until the very last page.

9798217116775 A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder: Deluxe Edition by Holly Jackson

Five years ago, high school senior Andie Bell was murdered by her boyfriend, Sal Singh, who then took his own life. The story made headlines everywhere. Now, high school senior Pip feels like the story doesn’t make sense. For her senior project, she decides to find out what really happened to Andie. This bestselling murder mystery will keep you glued to the page!

9780593302316 Kill Creatures by Rory Power

This is another dark thriller to add to your reading list, and it is wild. Nan, Luce, Edie, and Jane went exploring in the canyons last summer, but after killing her three best friends, only Nan returned. She claims the others vanished into thin air. However, a year later and much to everyone’s surprise, Luce emerges from the water at a town memorial.

yes no Fantasy: 9781368098458 Wings of Starlight by Allison Saft

If your YA reader loves fantasy mixed with romance, you will want to pick this book up! Clarion is busy getting ready for coronation day, but can’t stop daydreaming about crossing over to the forbidden Winter Woods. However, when she hears that a Winter Woods monster has invaded Spring, she is surprised to learn that it’s not a monster after all.

9780593650615 A Forgery of Fate by Elizabeth Lim

Truyan never planned on becoming a con artist. She also never planned on her father being lost at sea or her mother having a gambling problem. With her gift of art forgery that tells the future, Truyan is forced to marry an enigmatic dragon lord who wants to use her gift for his own treasonous ends.

9798217225705 Better in Black by Cassandra Clare

If you loved the Shadowhunter Chronicles, you will adore Better in Black! This book features ten couples from the Shadowhunter world who face various dangers that they must overcome. It’s perfect for teens who love a mix of fantasy and romance.

9798217002047 The Last Tiger by Julia Riew and Brad Riew

Lee and Choi lead different lives, but they both want to reshape their destinies. As they work together, they soon find themselves on opposing political sides as they search for the last tiger, the key to their people’s freedom. This is a story of friendship, hate, loyalty, and love — which one will prevail?

9781368115988 Long Live the Pumpkin Queen by Shea Ernshaw

Do you have a teen who loves The Nightmare Before Christmas? This book follows Sally’s story after the events of the movie. And this is just the first installment of the series! Look out for the sequel, Hour of the Pumpkin Queen!

9780593898802 Immortal Consequences: A Good Morning America YA Book Club Pick by I.V. Marie

This book gives off The Hunger Games vibes, with six rivals entering a competition to escape a purgatory-like boarding school. But, like The Hunger Games, only one teen can win this magical competition.

yes no Contemporary Fiction: 9780593858479 You’ve Found Oliver by Dustin Thao

Oliver can’t help it; he misses his best friend Sam. He died a year ago, and yet Oliver continues to text his old number. When Oliver accidentally calls Sam and someone answers, Oliver realizes that this person has been receiving those vulnerable texts. Will this turn into a disaster or something unexpectedly good?

9780593125472 Angelica and the Bear Prince by Trung Le Nguyen

Angelica was the teenager who had it all… until she didn’t. Burnout hit her hard, and she struggled to bounce back until the theater’s mascot bear started sending her encouraging notes. Angelica’s new goal is to uncover the identity of the person hiding under the mask and whether they are as amazing in real life as they seem on paper.

9780593621172 The Raven Boys: The Graphic Novel by Maggie Stiefvater and Stephanie R. Williams, illustrated by Sas Milledge

I read the novel more than a decade ago, and I’m thrilled to see it adapted into a graphic novel! Blue stays away from the rich and snobby Raven Boys until Gansey invites her on an adventure to find a long-lost king rumored to be sleeping under a mountain. Raised by clairvoyants, Blue is thrilled to participate in the magical journey. However, it doesn’t take long before their adventure takes a dangerous turn.

yes no Sci-Fi: 9780593899489 The Last Bookstore on Earth by Lily Braun-Arnold

Liz found refuge in an abandoned bookstore after the first Storm hit civilization, and has stayed there ever since. Maeve, one of the few survivors, breaks into the bookstore one night. Although Liz wants her gone, Maeve has the skills to repair the broken-down bookstore before the next Storm arrives. Will the girls be able to work together and survive as the world crumbles around them?

9780593953679 Frank Herbert’s Dune Saga 3-Book Boxed Set by Frank Herbert

This is a fantastic boxed set to give to any sci-fi-loving young adult who has seen the movies or who hasn’t read the books yet. This gorgeous, adventure-filled three-book collection makes an excellent gift for anyone who loves a fabulous story!

9781799501251 Teen Titans: Starfire (Connecting Cover Edition) by Kami Garcia

Kori couldn’t be more opposite than her older sister, Kira. Kori is reserved, doesn’t care about trends, and has been diagnosed with Ehlers Danlos Syndrome. Kira is popular, on trend, and has the best-looking boyfriend around. When Kori uses a trial medication for her EDS, she notices some powerful side effects (ahem) powers she’s never had before.

The post The Best YA Books To Gift Teens appeared first on Brightly.

These books are a perfect way to bring up the topic of friendship with your children as you prepare for that big first day and the various issues that can come up, from friends that look different, to adding new friends to old friendships, to solving conflict together.

no no 9780735229358 The Rabbit Listened by Cori Doerrfeld

This sweet book on emotional responses to grief is helpful both for children experiencing grief, and children who have a friend going through something difficult and aren’t quite sure what to say. When Taylor is sad, all of the animals tell her how to act — but the rabbit just listens, which is the best gift of all.

9780399245039 Lost and Found by Oliver Jeffers

When a penguin shows up on a boy’s doorstep, he goes to great lengths to return the animal to its home. However, when he deposits the penguin at the South Pole and sails away, he quickly realizes his mistake. The boy returns and reunites with his new friend. This heartfelt picture book is a beautiful story about recognizing true friendship.

9780593122273 Words to Make a Friend https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/611171/words-to-make-a-friend-by-donna-jo-napoli-illustrated-by-naoko-stoop/9780593122273/?ref=PRH06C9ECE222&aid=randohouseinc22957-20&linkid=PRH06C9ECE222 by Donna Jo Napoli, illustrated by Naoko Stoop

There are some things, like friendship and love, that are universal no matter where you’re from or what language you speak. In this book, a Japanese girl moves to America and is excited when she sees a girl playing outside in the snow. The only problem is that the Japanese girl and the American girl don’t speak the same language. This clever and adorable book illustrates that you don’t need to speak the same language to understand one another.

9781368026239 Norman Didn’t Do It! (Yes, He Did) by Ryan T. Higgins

Norman’s best friend is a tree. But when a new sapling springs up and befriends his tree, Norman feels threatened. In a moment of desperation, Norman does something terrible. However, he soon realizes the error of his ways and sets out to right his wrongs. Told with plenty of humor and expressive illustrations, this chuckle-worthy picture book shows readers that friendship can overcome an occasional lapse in judgment.

9780399257001 Oliver’s Tree http://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/309510/olivers-tree-by-kit-chase-illustrated-by-kit-chase/9780399257001/?ref=PRH06C9ECE222&aid=randohouseinc22957-20&linkid=PRH06C9ECE222 by Kit Chase

This sweet book about a trio of friends is one of my favorites. Oliver, an elephant, can’t find a tree to hide in for hide-and-seek, so his friends help him find the perfect tree for an elephant!

9780593858882 Ruby René Always Gets Her Way by Ashley Iman, illustrated by Gladys Jose

Ruby loves hosting her school’s morning announcements. But when she gets a co-host, Ruby must learn to share the spotlight, lend a listening ear, and treat her new friend with respect. Readers will learn the importance of being considerate in conversations and treating others as they want to be treated.

9780670012336 Llama Llama Time to Share by Anna Dewdney

One of the hardest things about going to school can be learning to share — you’re introduced to a whole bunch of fun new toys, games, and books, and then you’re expected to share them with kids you’ve never met before. I love that this book acknowledges that difficulty and then demonstrates how to deal with it.

9780593857731 George & Lenny Are Always Together by Jon Agee

George and Lenny are best friends who spend every minute together. However, when one of them wants some alone time, it throws a wrench into their friendship. These besties learn to navigate the need for alone time with humor and heart. This book beautifully portrays how different people show up in friendship and how they support each other.

9780525553465 Can I Play Too? by Samantha Cotterill

Kids are taught from a young age to share their toys, but what about sharing their ideas? In this story, two young kids are building a train set, when one of the children insists on doing things his way. Can I Play Too? tackles big ideas like compromising and paying attention to other people’s feelings. With gentle guidance, and charming illustrations, this book will help little ones stay on track in their friendships.

9780823460731 The Sharing Book by Dianne White, illustrated by Simone Shin

Two best friends head out on a camping trip with their families. They share meals, adventures, and memories together. This beautiful picture book celebrates the connections we make when we focus on sharing everything from sunsets to stories.

9780525429166 My Friend Maggie by Hannah E. Harrison

It’s never easy to know how to deal with a mean girl, especially when that mean girl starts picking on your best friend. Do you stick up for your friend or join the mean girl team? Most kids know what they should do, but actually doing it is a lot more difficult and this book deftly demonstrates how that plays out. This book is a great conversation starter for parents and children.

9781536222043 How to Apologize by David LaRochelle, illustrated by Mike Wohnoutka

People make mistakes sometimes. Whether it was intentional or an accident, a mistake deserves an apology. This humorous picture book shows young readers how to apologize when they’ve hurt someone else.

9780385376693 How to Grow a Friend by Sara Gillingham

Perfect for the littlest of readers, How to Grow a Friend is a cheerful and accessible metaphor about seeding, growing, and maintaining friendships. I love its gentle reminder that relationships, like gardening, require nurturing and tender care.

9781664300729 Hank Meets Frank by Maudie Powell-Tuck, illustrated by Duncan Beedie

When his cousin, Frank, pulls a prank, everyone blames Hank for it. Unwilling to let it go, Hank sets out to prove that Frank isn’t as sweet and innocent as everyone thinks. As the cousins one-up each other, things quickly spiral out of control. This hilarious picture book is a cautionary tale about seeking revenge in our closest relationships.

9780803740303 Ladybug Girl and the Best Ever Playdate by Jacky Davis, illustrated by David Soman

We’ve all experienced going to someone’s house to play (or having them to ours) and being completely captivated by a new toy and wanting to play with that way more than the friend we actually came to play with. In this one, the toy in question is the Rolly-Roo and it starts to come between Finny and Lulu. Until the Rolly-Roo gets broken.

9780440417996 The Name Jar by Yangsook Choi

It’s hard to be the new kid, especially when no one can pronounce your name. Unhei is from Korea and, anxious to make new friends, she announces that she will choose a new American name. Fortunately, by the time the week is up, she’s decided to stick with her own unfamiliar name and help her new friends learn to say it correctly.

Editor’s Note: This article was originally published in 2017 and updated in 2025.

The post Caring, Sharing, and Growing: Books To Show Kids How To Be a Friend appeared first on Brightly.

no no 9780425291115 The Story of Ferdinand by Munro Leaf, illustrated by Robert Lawson

Truly a staple for every little one’s library, The Story of Ferdinand and its message of peace is as timeless as it gets. This gorgeous board book version is one that families will be able to treasure for years to come.

9780553521092 Go, Dog. Go! by P.D. Eastman

This abridged version of the classic story is just as fun to read as the original. Follow a lively crew of dogs as they zoom around in cars, bikes, scooters, and many other vehicles while on their way to a party in a tree. It’s a timeless first book every baby should grow up with.

9780553538731 A Color of His Own by Leo Lionni

Leo Lionni’s vibrant illustrations come alive on the page. Children will learn the names of colors and animals in both Spanish and English in this dual-language edition that celebrates all the colors of the rainbow (and then some!).

9780399247453 https://assets.readbrightly.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/9780399226908.jpeg The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle

I’ve never met a child who didn’t love poking their fingers through the little holes the caterpillar eats each food item through, and the board book version means those little fingers won’t immediately rip twenty-five holes in your brand-new book.

9780670014071 Madeline by Ludwig Bemelmans

Who among us hasn’t been drawn to that classic cover of twelve little girls in two straight lines walking along a Parisian path? Now, you can hold off on the picture book until an older birthday and start them off with just the right size.

9780448457147 The Little Engine That Could by Watty Piper, illustrated by George and Doris Hauman

Like countless others before them, young readers will be rooting for that sweet and spirited Little Engine as she chug-chug-chugs along. Featuring the original illustrations in brilliant color, you can’t go wrong with this one.

9780670013258 The Snowy Day by Ezra Jack Keats

There’s something about Ezra Jack Keats’s The Snowy Day that calls for readings all year long, and with this perfectly rendered and sturdy board book, babies and toddlers can page through with every season that passes by.

9781536210637 Guess How Much I Love You by Sam McBratney, illustrated by Anita Jeram

Little readers love an extra-grabbable padded board book, and this extra-special edition of Sam McBratney’s treasured title is just the ticket. At home or on the go, they’ll reach for it again and again.

9780553496802 Are You My Mother? by P.D. Eastman

What’s not to love about P.D. Eastman’s classic? (Yes, that’s a rhetorical question.) Capturing the enduring connection between mother and child, Are You My Mother? makes for a perfectly cozy read-aloud.

9780399240461 Where’s Spot? by Eric Hill

In bold, eye-catching color and with kid-friendly flaps that just beg to be lifted, this modern classic is destined to stay a fan-favorite for even the littlest of readers.

9780451470799 Corduroy by Don Freeman

As a child, I thought this was a cute book about a silly little bear. As an adult, I can barely get through the ending where Corduroy finds a home and a friend without getting choked up. One more advantage to a board book — your tears won’t ruin the pages.

Editor’s Note: This article was originally published in 2015 and updated in 2025.

The post Classic Board Books for Your Little One’s Library appeared first on Brightly.

You’re probably already familiar with the classic I Spy books (which I could NOT keep on the library shelves when I was a librarian — they never made it out of the book drop before another child swooped in and snatched them up) and Where’s Waldo? from your own childhood, but now the shelves are bursting with lots of new options that your children will love.

These books are so great for a long afternoon at home or a car ride or plane trip because they keep children occupied for a good chunk of time. And they make the best gifts for children. Here are 13 seek-and-find books the whole family will love.

no no 9780593177457 Richard Scarry’s Busytown Seek and Find! https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/634107/richard-scarrys-busytown-seek-and-find-by-written-and-illustrated-by-richard-scarry/9780593177457/?ref=PRH06C9ECE222&aid=randohouseinc22957-20&linkid=PRH06C9ECE222 by Richard Scarry

Introduce your toddler to the enchanting world of Busytown with this colorful seek-and-find board book! Explore the town, find favorite characters, and locate hidden objects with your little one.
(Ages 0 – 3)

9781639622634 Baby’s First Hidden Pictures created by Highlights

Let your baby or toddler have some hands-on fun with this interactive and sensory-rich board book. Little ones will love lifting flaps, solving puzzles, and searching for hidden pictures. Designed by childhood experts, this book encourages learning and curiosity in the tiniest of readers.
(Ages 0 – 3)

9780394829128 Wacky Wednesday https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/43173/wacky-wednesday-by-dr-seuss-illustrated-by-george-booth/9780394829128/?ref=PRH06C9ECE222&aid=randohouseinc22957-20&linkid=PRH06C9ECE222 by Dr. Seuss, illustrated by George Booth

In this reissued version of a classic Dr. Seuss book, things go crazy on Wednesday. There are lots of funny little details to find on each page, from the wrong kind of fruit growing in trees to a sun that’s green instead of yellow. This book never gets old!
(Ages 3 – 7)

9781101999219 The Lost House by B. B. Cronin

This book is so eye-catching, with every page a completely different color! It’s gorgeous and surprisingly hard to find the objects hidden on each page. Also check out The Lost Picnic, The Lost Cousins, and the holiday companion The Lost Christmas.
(Ages 3 – 7)

9780593385692 Where’s Bluey? by Penguin Young Readers Licenses

Kids will love searching the pages of this book for their favorite blue heeler. Each page presents a new scene for young readers to scour as they look for Bluey, Bingo, and other hidden items. If your little Bluey fan enjoys this book, check out the holiday title, Where’s Bluey? At Christmas.
(Ages 4 – 6)

9780679849797 I Spy (Sesame Street) by Caitlin Haynes, illustrated by Tom Cook

With its familiar “I Spy” structure and favorite friends from Sesame Street, this book is sure to be a hit with early readers. Kids are invited to look for characters and objects, reinforcing their knowledge of shapes, colors, and sizes as they go.
(Ages 4 – 6)

9780744098891 The Met Where Did Van Gogh Go? by DK

Get lost in 10 stunning scenes inspired by famous artworks at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Search an oceanside village in Japan for the great wave, a busy New York street for a ballet dancer, and a sweeping scene of Arles, France, for Van Gogh himself.
(Ages 5 – 9)

9781536210668 Where’s Waldo Now? by Martin Handford

What seek-and-find list is complete without the big man himself? Waldo has been delighting (and evading) searchers for decades. Follow Waldo and his friends through history as they hide among cavemen, gladiators, gold miners, and more. This updated version includes additional hidden object activities and spot-the-difference games for even more fun!
(Ages 5 – 9)

9781639623013 Mega Super Cute Hidden Pictures Puzzles created by Highlights

Get ready for a cuteness overload with this adorable hidden pictures book. With over 300 pages of puzzles to solve, kids will have a blast searching for super cute items like food, animals, and magical creatures.
(Ages 6 – 9)

9780593173121 Catch the Creeper! (Minecraft) by Stephanie Milton, illustrated by Random House

Minecraft lovers will spend hours poring over the pages of this book, looking for game characters. With highly detailed illustrations and plenty of creepers to catch, this seek-and-find book is the perfect screen-free alternative when your kids need a break from the video game.
(Ages 6 – 9)

9781639622924 Cute Cat and Dog Puzzles created by Highlights

Cat and dog lovers can’t get enough of this sweet seek-and-find book from Highlights. Kids who love their furry friends can enjoy hours of coloring, searching, and finding items in cozy scenes filled with adorable felines and canines.
(Ages 6 – 9)

9780744033625 The Met Lost in the Museum https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/669307/the-met-lost-in-the-museum-by-dk/9780744033625/?ref=PRH06C9ECE222&aid=randohouseinc22957-20&linkid=PRH06C9ECE222 by Will Mabbitt, illustrated by Aaron Cushley

Have you ever visited The Met in New York City? You could get lost in there! And that’s just what one little girl does. Now, she needs help navigating the galleries and finding hidden objects along the way. Kids will have a blast finding items, learning fun facts, and exploring the museum.
(Ages 7 – 9)

9781644723340 The Hardest Hidden Pictures Book Ever https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/651987/the-hardest-hidden-pictures-book-ever-by-highlights/?ref=PRH06C9ECE222&aid=randohouseinc22957-20&linkid=PRH06C9ECE222 by Highlights

Does your kid like a challenge? Hand them this hidden pictures book and let them test their seek-and-find skills. With more than 1,500 hidden objects to find, this book will keep older kids occupied (and happy) for a long time.
(Ages 8 – 12)

Editor’s Note: This article was originally published in 2018 and updated in 2025.

The post Hidden Fun! 13 of the Best Seek-and-Find Books for Kids appeared first on Brightly.

With the arrival of cooler temperatures, shorter days, and pumpkin-spiced everything comes an array of new middle grade books and chapter books to check out! From graphic novels and new spins on childhood classics to mysteries and adventures, here are the most exciting chapter books and middle grade reads coming this fall.

no no 9780593698068 The Dark Times of Nimble Nottingham by Ryan James Black

Nimble Nottingham is doing his best to survive on the streets of London during World War II. When a bomb falls on Gravenhurst Manor, Nim sneaks into the ruins to look for valuables to sell. He finds a safe, cracks it, and accidentally releases the monster locked inside. Now, with the creature wreaking havoc on the city, Nim and his friends must find a way to return it to its prison.
Ages 10+

9781524737931 Candace, the Universe, and Everything by Sherri L. Smith

Candace’s first day of eighth grade takes a bizarre turn when a bird flies out of her locker. Later, a mysterious notebook appears in her locker with new messages appearing as she reads. With the help of a professor and a quantum physicist, Candace discovers that her locker is a portal in time. Before long, Candace embarks on an unforgettable journey to learn the secrets contained within her locker and the universe.
Ages 10+

9780593809907 The Poisoned King by Katherine Rundell, illustrated by Ashley Mackenzie

The first book of this series, Impossible Creatures, was a massive hit with young readers, and this sequel is just as excellent. With poison spreading across the Archipelago, Christopher musters his courage and jumps feet-first back into a world filled with magical beasts, mysteries, and adventure.
Ages 10+

9780593624036 Range (Adapted for Young Readers) by David Epstein, illustrated by Berat Pekmezci

I love good adaptations, especially when they’re nonfiction. This compilation of stories from athletes, musicians, artists, and scientists is full of inspiration for young minds. It encourages young people to experiment and try out various things rather than focusing on a single specialty.
Ages 8 – 12

9781984836755 The Incredibly Human Henson Blayze by Derrick Barnes

Thirteen-year-old Henson Blayze is a football prodigy, and the entire town is eager to see him play in high school. But when Henson speaks out about an injustice, the town turns against him. Soon, he must choose to either cave to the town’s demands or turn his back on football forever. This heartfelt story tackles themes of injustice, racism, and unrealistic expectations.
Ages 10+

9780593706718 Junie B. Jones and a Little Monkey Business: The Graphic Novel by Barbara Park, illustrated by Honie Beam, adapted by Colleen AF Venable

I love that many beloved childhood books are being adapted into graphic novels. In this installment, Junie B. Jones is not thrilled with the newest member of her family — her baby brother. However, when her grandma refers to the baby as a little monkey, it changes her whole mindset. A baby monkey living in her house? That’s something she can get behind.
Ages 6 – 9

9780593902332 History Smashers: Ancient Egypt by Kate Messner

For nonfiction lovers, the History Smashers series is an absolute home run. These books “smash” everything you thought you knew about history. In this book, readers will find out what’s true about Ancient Egypt and what’s not. This series is like MythBusters for history. My kids love these books and can’t wait to read this upcoming title!
Ages 8 – 12

9780593530252 Finding Lost by Holly Goldberg Sloan

After her dad’s death, Cordy struggles to cope as her mom plans to move out of the small town she loves. Hoping to stay in their hometown, Cordy looks for anything that will convince her mom not to move their family. When she comes across a dirty, stray dog and takes him home, he becomes the new beginning their family desperately needs.
Ages 9+

9798217113217 Dragonborn by Struan Murray

Alex’s life is about to change more than she ever expected. Frustrated with her mother’s overbearing strictness, Alex lets out a heated roar and discovers she can transform into a dragon! Now, at a school for kids like her, Alex must learn to harness her new abilities and defend the human world against a growing threat.
Ages 8 – 12

9780593707982 Ms. Pennypickle’s Puzzle Quest by Chris Grabenstein

Brothers Benjamin and Ethan have very little in common. Benjamin loves gaming, and Ethan loves sports. The one thing they agree on is that neither of them wants to go on a family road trip. Their attitude changes when they find a clue leading to a million-dollar race against five other families. Let the games begin!
Ages 8 – 12

9798217029624 The Boxcar Children Classic Treasury by Gertrude Chandler Warner

Growing up, I obsessed over this series and read it countless times. Now that I’m a parent, I’m thrilled to see my girls equally enthralled with these stories! It’s a fun mystery series that readers of all ages can enjoy. It isn’t too scary, and it showcases fantastic sibling relationships. This boxed set includes all 19 of the original The Boxcar Children mysteries.
Ages 7 – 10

9780593405277 The Last Kids on Earth and the Destructor’s Lair by Max Brallier, illustrated by Douglas Holgate

The tenth book in this popular series is here! Jack and Quint return to a less-than-ideal situation. Being stuck in the Monster Dimension is just as horrible as it sounds and, as you can imagine, isn’t easy to escape! The kids must race through the Monster Dimension and find a mysterious creature who holds the key to saving the world.
Ages 8 – 12

9780593809822 The Treasure of Ocean Parkway by Sarvenaz Tash

Twelve-year-old Thea finds a secret door in the back of her closet that leads to a room filled with her grandfather’s belongings and a clue to a hidden treasure. She reaches out to two kids with a mystery podcast who live in her apartment building, and the three of them embark on a whirlwind scavenger hunt through every nook and cranny of the building.
Ages 8 – 12

9798217115976 A Babymouse Flip Book: LOVE (Heartbreaker + Puppy Love) by Jennifer L. Holm, illustrated by Matthew Holm

The Babymouse graphic novel series has strong kid appeal and is excellent for a wide range of readers! This full-color book features two stories in one! Kids will love reading about their favorite mouse as she searches for a date to the school dance. Then, readers will flip the book over to read about Babymouse adopting an adorable puppy.
Ages 7 – 10

9798217028559 The Eyes, the Fire, & the Avalanche Kingdom by Dave Eggers, illustrated by Shawn Harris

I read The Eyes and the Impossible aloud to my children after it won the Newbery Medal, and we couldn’t set it down! We can’t wait to dive into this sequel, complete with illustrations, intriguing animals, and an exciting story.
Ages 8 – 12

The post New Middle Grade & Chapter Books Coming in Fall 2025 appeared first on Brightly.

As they develop more independence and the ability to read longer and more complex stories, the world of children’s literature really opens up.

These new and classic titles are perfect for all kinds of third-grade readers. They’re also great for reading aloud, if that’s more your child’s speed. Or you can try alternating back and forth — they read a page, then you read a page — so they can practice their reading but not get so bogged down they lose sight of the story arc.

No matter how you use these books, all 16 are winners.

no no 9780593382486 Stephen Curry Sports Superheroes Series by Josh Bycel and Rich Korson, illustrated by Damion Scott

Sports fanatics will love this graphic novel series featuring athletes who overcame significant barriers to success. The first book follows Stephen Curry, who became one of the greatest shooters in the NBA, despite coaches saying he was too short to play professional basketball. The second book is about Wilma Rudolph, who overcame polio and won three gold medals in the Olympics.

9780593807453 Minecraft Ironsword Academy Series by Caleb Zane Huett

Minecraft is the most popular video game of all time, and kids can stay in that world a little longer with this action-packed series. Morgan, Harper, and their friends attend a new school where they must navigate friendships, avoid a grouchy principal, and keep the Minecraft server safe from someone who wants to unplug it. Also, make sure to check out The Minecraft Woodsword Chronicle and The Minecraft Stonesword Saga.

9780440418702 The Tia Lola Series by Julia Alvarez

Young readers will love Tia Lola and want her as their own! She’s a magical aunt who lends her aid during every adventure and life lesson. Whether it’s a move, a summer rescue, or teaching Spanish at her niece and nephew’s school, Tia Lola proves she’s an unstoppable force!

9781984837141 Pages & Co. Series by Anna James, illustrated by Paola Escobar

Tilly Pages has an enviable ability: she’s a bookwanderer, which means she can travel into any story she chooses. Tilly discovers her power at Pages & Co., her grandparents’ bookshop, after meeting literary characters — like Anne of Green Gables — who bookwandered out of their own stories and into Tilly’s life. With the help of a new friend, Oskar, Tilly solves all sorts of bookish mysteries, starting with what happened to her mother who disappeared.

9780142410349 Fantastic Mr. Fox by Roald Dahl, illustrated by Quentin Blake

When is Roald Dahl not a good idea? This book is a quick read and hilariously funny. (There are also audio versions of Roald Dahl’s books and this one is particularly excellent if you have a child who would rather listen than read.)

9780593326497 Los Monstruos: Felice and the Wailing Woman by Diana López

In this enchanting adventure, the determined twelve-year-old daughter of La Llorona sets out to free her mother and undo the curses that have been afflicting the magical town of Tres Leches. With added help from the children of other monsters, they go on a charming adventure to break magical and metaphorical curses that have haunted their town for generations.

9780735231726 The Unicorn Rescue Society Series by Adam Gidwitz

For third graders who can’t read enough about mythological creatures, The Unicorn Rescue Society series is a must. New kid at school Elliot Eisner and thrill-seeking Uchenna Devereaux are tapped to join an ultra-secret organization that’s been protecting mythical animals — and keeping them hidden — for centuries. Their adventures take them around the world and face-to-face with fantastic creatures; the accompanying illustrations make a perfect crossover for newly independent readers.

9780142400104 Cam Jansen Series by David A. Adler

There’s a reason this series has been a bestseller for over 30 years — and with over 30 books in the set, it will keep readers busy for a good while. You might think of Cam Jansen as a descendent of Nancy Drew: there’s no mystery Cam can’t solve if she just puts her mind to it, especially with her best friend Eric at her side. It’s a great transition for those just getting into chapter books.

9780593533253 The Swifts: A Dictionary of Scoundrels by Beth Lincoln, illustrated by Claire Powell

A family reunion takes a deadly turn when a relative shoves Arch-Aunt Schadenfreude down the stairs. Shenanigan Swift vows to figure out which one of her quirky relations did the dastardly deed. This delightful murder mystery is perfect for young readers who enjoy wordplay, mischief, and suspense.

9780593109212 Planet Omar Series by Zanib Mian, illustrated by Nasaya Mafaridik

A wonderful #OwnVoices series, Planet Omar centers a young Muslim boy as he nervously transfers to a new school. Omar is bighearted and wildly imaginative (he suspects his new teacher of being an alien, for starters), and though he’s confronted with a bully and a feeling of otherness, he has his imagination, quirky family, and new best friend to help him find his footing.

9780593117392 Deepwater Creek: A Graphic Novel by Michael Regina

Third graders looking for thrills and chills will find it in this horror graphic novel. A group of friends goes on one last fishing trip before school starts, but their relaxing day takes a terrifying turn when they hook a river monster. Their parents dismiss the wild story, and the kids realize it’s up to them to save their families from the creature lurking beneath the river’s surface. This spine-tingling book is perfect to read at Halloween or any time of year.

9780451479754 A Hero’s Guide to Summer Vacation by Pablo Cartaya

This book has everything young fantasy readers could want: family, magic, and a road trip! Gonzalo’s grandfather wrote a children’s fantasy series, and Gonzalo’s mother is sending them both on a cross-country book tour. But when demons start attacking them, Gonzalo learns that his grandfather’s books are based on reality rather than imagination.

9780394815008 The Phantom Tollbooth by Norton Juster, illustrated by Jules Feiffer

Third grade is the perfect age to experience the wonder of The Phantom Tollbooth. Milo’s mysterious journey to the Island of Conclusions and his burgeoning friendship with Tock the ticking watchdog will reinvigorate imaginations — including yours! Why not revisit this classic with a family-wide read aloud? Your kids will be clamoring to read the next page.

9781536230888 The Secret Library by Kekla Magoon

Desperate for adventure, eleven-year-old Dally inherits a map from her grandfather that leads her to a hidden library filled with books that can transport her to other times and places. The more adventures she goes on, the further the library pulls her into its clutches. Mystery, family secrets, and magic combine in this must-read fantasy adventure novel.

9780142408810 Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing by Judy Blume

Every third grader needs a dose of Judy Blume in their life — and every young reader who’s lived through the woes of sibling rivalry will appreciate this tale of Peter and his little brother, Fudge, who’s hogging all the attention. The kid’s trouble in Peter’s opinion, though all anyone seems to care about is his so-called cuteness. After your child devours this one, they can turn to Superfudge and Otherwise Known as Sheila the Great.

9780142425305 The Mouse with the Question Mark Tail by Richard Peck

What child hasn’t been charmed by miniature, hidden worlds? Enchanted fairies, tiny “borrowers” who live in the walls, and now a pipsqueak of a mouse who doesn’t know his own name. But that won’t stop him from setting off for Buckingham Palace to seek an audience with Queen Victoria and find out who he really is. Whimsical and clever, this one’s sure to charm your young reader.

You might also like:

• 20 Short Middle Grade Books Under 250 Pages
• Next Reads for Kids Who Love Raina Telgemeier
• Must-Read Mystery Books for Tweens
• 12 Book to Graphic Novel Adaptations Kids Will Love

Editor’s Note: This article was originally published in 2015 and updated in 2025.

The post 16 Great Chapter Books<br> for Third Graders appeared first on Brightly.

Please note: Retail buttons for a series will direct you to the first book in the series.

no no 9798217030989 Murray and Bun! Series by Adam Stower

When a wizard enchants the cat flap in their door, Murray the cat and Bun the rabbit discover a world filled with adventure. Whether they’re learning how to joust or rescuing a friend from a troll, Murray and Bun tackle each new challenge with humor and heart. Kids will giggle their way through each hilarious adventure in this series from an award-winning illustrator.

9780147510679 Dory Fantasmagory Series by Abby Hanlon

It’s hard being the youngest sibling, especially when your brother and sister won’t play with you. Good thing Dory has an unbelievably wild imagination to keep her entertained. With its sharp-toothed robbers, bearded fairy godmothers, and a best friend who just happens to be a monster, this book is a real hoot.

9780448487519 Jada Jones Series by Kelly Starling Lyons

Science-loving Jada Jones is a role model of the best kind, and the lessons she learns throughout the series — about making and keeping friends, and being brave enough to try new things — are wonderfully applicable for this age group.

9780593897997 The Kids of Cattywampus Street by Lisa Jahn-Clough, illustrated by Natalie Andrewson

In the spirit of Louis Sachar and Roald Dahl, this title tells the stories of a special group of friends living on Cattywampus Street. While not part of a series, each of the eleven chapters tells a different child’s account, making it perfect as a bedtime read-aloud. Wacky, mysterious, sad, scary, and joyful, each story offers something unique, but they’re all connected to the neighborhood’s local toy shop.

9780593699225 Amina Banana Series by Shifa Saltagi Safadi, illustrated by Aaliya Jaleel

Amina moves from Syria to Indiana in this early chapter book series for fans of Junie B. Jones. Although she is nervous about starting over in a new school and a new country, Amina takes everything in stride. She learns English, makes friends, participates in a spelling bee, and helps her family stretch their budget. Readers who enjoy slice-of-life stories and plucky heroines will love this series.

9780679824114 Magic Treehouse Series by Mary Pope Osborne

I’ve yet to meet a reader who wasn’t totally entertained by the Magic Tree House series. Spanning eons of history, Jack and Annie’s action-packed adventures shine in this revamped collection. Best yet, kids can graduate to the more challenging Merlin Mission series when they’re ready for the next step.

9780735269453 Esme! Series by Lourdes Heuer, illustrated by Marissa Valdez

Esme is an energetic and upbeat little girl who lives with her grandparents on the top floor of an apartment building. Whether she’s planning the biggest birthday bash ever or forming a building-wide troop to help a friend sell cookies, her problem-solving spirit is irresistible.

9780679826422 Junie B. Jones Series by Barbara Park, illustrated by Denise Brunkus

Funny, feisty, and prone to mishaps, Junie B. Jones tackles the challenges of growing up in her own mischievous (and hilarious) way.

9780593122983 The Magnificent Makers Series by Theanne Griffith, illustrated by Reggie Brown

Calling all young science lovers! Get ready for an awesome adventure with this STEM-tastic series. Join best friends Violet, Pablo, and their new classmate Deepak on thrilling scientific journeys and experiments. Watch them learn and test out cool scientific concepts while discovering the true value of friendship.

9780593856666 Class Pet Ghost Detective Series by Akeem S. Roberts

Ghosts, humor, and classroom mysteries combine in this hilarious graphic novel series. When Carter’s class pet, a naked mole rat named Mr. Pebbles, dies, its ghost comes back to help him clear his name of any wrongdoing. In the second book, Mr. Pebbles and Carter take on the case of a missing milk snake. Full-color artwork and a giggle-inducing story make this series irresistible to young readers.

9780593095980 Woodward and McTwee by Jonathan Fenske

Second graders will love the unlikely yet dynamic duo of Woodward and McTwee, a hippo and a bird who love to play pranks on each other. Perfect for fans of Mo Willems’s Elephant and Piggie, this pair of stories is sure to entertain.

9780763645045 Mercy Watson Series by Kate DiCamillo, illustrated by Chris Van Dusen

My daughter and I love this hysterical series about a buttered-toast loving pig who lives with owners that treat her as something between a child and a pet.

9780375849305 Alvin Ho Series by Lenore Look, illustrated by LeUyen Pham

Alvin Ho is scared of everything. He’s especially scared of school. Too bad he can’t tackle starting second grade as his superhero alter ego, Firecracker Man. Kids will love rooting for Alvin as he learns to conquer his many fears.

9781774881880 Julia on the Go! Series by Angela Ahn, illustrated by Julie Kim

Julia wants to become the greatest swimmer ever! Follow along as she spends time at her beloved Mountainview Community Center, with the folks who make it wonderful, and tests her swimming limits to be the absolute best, all while navigating the challenges of growing up!

9780147514851 Humphrey’s Tiny Tales Series by Betty G. Birney, illustrated by Priscilla Burris

Humphrey spends his days as the class pet of Room 26 at Longfellow School. With a room full of friends, so much to learn, and a cage with a broken lock, Humphrey’s many adventures are perfect for fans of animal-centered stories.

9780593526965 The Underdogs Series by Kate Temple and Jol Temple, illustrated by Shiloh Gordon

When a new mystery stumps a couple of dog detectives, they hire a cat to help them out. Together, this unlikely team sets out to solve burglaries, forgeries, and thefts. Second graders who loved The Bad Guys and The InvestiGators will eagerly dive into this rib-tickling chapter book series!

9780744049978 Dinosaur Club Series by Rex Stone, illustrated by Louise Forshaw

Dino-loving kids won’t be able to resist this early chapter book series. In each installment, best friends Tess and Jamie go through a portal to prehistoric times where they encounter various dinosaurs. With 12 books in the series, these highly illustrated chapter books will satisfy the most dino-hungry second grader.

You might also like:

• Mystery Books for 6- to 8-Year-Olds
• Books Like Dog Man: Must-Read Series for Fans of Dav Pilkey
• Time-Travel Books for Kids Who Love Magic Tree House
• Early Chapter Books With Fierce Female Characters

Editor’s Note: This article was originally published in 2015 and updated in 2025.

The post 17 Superb Chapter Books for <br>Second Graders appeared first on Brightly.

But as a librarian and now as a parent, I’ve really come to love and appreciate them.

They’re perfect for reluctant readers who can enjoy a book and build positive literary experiences without the stress of reading words. They also give children a chance to focus on the art and observe all the amazing details the illustrator has included. They’re great for active reading — you can point things out together, make sounds, and act out the plot. And they work with your schedule; you decide how long or short to make the story.

These are my favorite wordless picture books.

no no 9781524771768 Stormy by Guojing

When a woman discovers a bedraggled puppy under a park bench, she tries to befriend it, with no luck. She returns day after day, and the dog gradually becomes more comfortable with her. Still, it takes a storm to convince the puppy that the woman offers safety, protection, and friendship. Dog lovers will want to read this book on repeat!

9780698116498 Good Night, Gorilla by Peggy Rathmann

As a zookeeper makes the evening rounds, a gorilla quietly slips the keys from his belt. He goes from cage to cage, letting all the animals roam free in the zoo. With its humorous artwork, this nearly wordless picture book will have readers of all ages grinning from ear to ear.

9781580895620 The Boy & the Book by David Michael Slater, illustrated by Bob Kolar

A menacing young boy enters the library, looking for his next victim, and all the books run for cover. Unfortunately, a blue book isn’t fast enough, and the boy nabs it, only to mishandle it, crumple its pages, and bang its corners. The next day, the blue book faces the destructive boy again, but this time, wins him over with its story. This giggle-worthy book teaches children about the love of reading and treating books with respect.

9780763660536 Journey by Aaron Becker

From the moment this one was published, it was getting Caldecott buzz (and then went on to snag a Caldecott Honor). Imagine you could draw a door on your wall and then step out into a magical world. We read this book dozens of times when we first checked it out from the library, and neither my daughter nor I ever got tired of it. I also love the other two books in the trilogy, Quest and Return.

9780440406938 Noah’s Ark by Peter Spier

This won the Caldecott medal years ago and has definitely withstood the test of time. The details are just so masterful — from Noah building the Ark, to feeding the animals day after day, to the exuberance as everyone finally gets off the Ark and explores the world again. If you have an animal lover in the house, this is a no-brainer.

9780593707661 The Boy and the Elephant by Freya Blackwood

This gorgeously illustrated picture book needs no words to deliver its message about conservation, imagination, and friendship. A lonely young boy befriends an “elephant” in the overgrown lot next to his home. When builders arrive, ready to demolish the foliage, the boy comes up with a plan to save his green haven from destruction.

9780394884660 The Snowman by Raymond Briggs

The Snowman follows a little boy and his snowman — which comes alive in his dreams that night — as they explore the wonders of the world. Immediately hailed as a modern classic, it begs for multiple reads.

9780593661345 Home in a Lunchbox by Cherry Mo

This nearly wordless picture book is about a little girl who moves from Hong Kong to the United States. She doesn’t speak English and finds communicating and fitting in with her new classmates difficult. But when she opens her lunchbox to find a familiar meal, she feels more at home. The lush illustrations earned this book a Caldecott Honor!

9780517885550 Time Flies by Eric Rohmann

Eric Rohmann’s debut, which won a Caldecott when it was initially published in 1994, is a timeless picture book that explores the concept of birds evolving from dinosaurs. A gorgeous combination of science and striking illustrations, I predict this one staying a fan favorite for years to come.

9781536227680 The Last Zookeeper by Aaron Becker

In this futuristic retelling of the biblical story of Noah’s Ark, Caldecott Honor-winning creator Aaron Becker delivers a beautiful and hopeful outlook. In a post-apocalyptic world, the Earth has flooded, leaving nothing but ruins. A compassionate robot named NOA builds a boat, rescues stranded zoo animals, and searches for a new home. The stunning artwork and heartfelt storyline will keep readers of all ages coming back for multiple rereads.

9780375870378 Bluebird by Bob Staake

Bob Staake is a prolific children’s book author — and New Yorker cover artist, to boot — but he’s said Bluebird is the book he was meant to write. The wordless story of a friendship between a young boy and a bird is packed with emotion and raises important questions about loneliness and the bonds that save us.

9780375858611 A Ball for Daisy by Chris Raschka

You can’t go wrong with A Ball for Daisy, a Caldecott Medal-winner about a sweet dog that’s heartbroken over the loss of her favorite toy. Children will relate to Daisy’s keen disappointment — and surge of joy — as captured through Raschka’s unique illustrations.

9781662651335 The Book From Far Away by Bruce Handy, illustrated by Julie Benbassat

A young boy looks up from his book to see an alien family emerging from their spaceship. Although he is cautious at first, it doesn’t take long before the boy and the alien child become friends and exchange books. This gorgeously illustrated picture book is perfect for kids who love stories about aliens, reading, and friendship.

9780763648480 Mirror by Jeanine Baker

In Baker’s Mirror, two boys — one in Australia and one in Morrocco — go about their day. While beautifully constructed three-dimensional collages show two very different lives and cultures, finding the underlying commonalities between them will resonate most with readers. Truly, words are extraneous when you’ve got such shared wonder in the world.

9780593521625 The Light Inside by Dan Misdea

Celebrate Halloween year-round with this quirky picture book about a jack-o’-lantern who loses its favorite toy. The jack-o’-lantern chases after its toy in what becomes an epic nighttime adventure filled with monsters, witches, and unexpected friendship.

You might also like:

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Editor’s Note: This article was originally published in 2015 and updated in 2025.

The post Wonderfully Wordless Picture Books appeared first on Brightly.

These books for tweens feature fantasy, mystery, hardships, history, adventure, and lots of fun! This list has something for every kind of reader.

no no 9780593564226 A Copycat Conundrum (The Misfits) by Lisa Yee, illustrated by Dan Santat

My daughter loved the first book in this series! The Misfits may be an awkward group of kids fighting crime, but they possess the right qualities to dominate every mission. That is until priceless pieces of art go missing, bizarre earthquakes shake up San Francisco, and the nicest kid in school starts receiving terrorizing notes — all at the same time. Is this a coincidence, or are these circumstances connected?

9780593813171 The Dragon’s Apprentice by James Riley

Like most fantasy books, this middle grade novel has adventure and magic on every page, but it is also hilarious! Twelve-year-old Ciara lives in a tiny village ruled by an Emperor who promises that bad things will befall anyone who learns magic. Ciara tempts fate and accidentally summons an ancient, grouchy dragon who might be able to help her save her mother!

9780593959305 The Green Kingdom by Cornelia Funke and Tammi Hartung, illustrated by Melissa Castrillon

Brooklyn is NOT where 12-year-old Caspia wants to spend the summer. Big cities are not her thing, but her attitude changes when she finds a bundle of letters written by a blind girl long ago, all containing a riddle. These riddles lead her on an adventure to places and people she would have never discovered otherwise.

9780593112113 Max in the Land of Lies by Adam Gidwitz

In this sequel to the historical fiction novel Max in the House of Spies, Max has successfully become a British spy. But when he returns to Germany, he finds his parents missing, and the Nazis keep him under constant surveillance. He risks everything to find his parents, but before long, the lies and truths start to blur together.

9780451479754 A Hero’s Guide to Summer Vacation by Pablo Cartaya

When a quiet kid and his grumpy yet famous grandpa hit the road in a vintage convertible, sparks fly and surprises unfold. From coast to coast, they battle old grudges, face unexpected challenges, and discover that real-life adventures can be the most epic of all!

9780593226520 Ready or Not! #1 by Megan E. Bryant

Too much is changing in nine-year-old Abby’s world. Her best friend moved away, her mom started working full time, she has to do the dreaded after-school running program, and don’t get her started on the changes happening in her body without her permission. Being stuck between being a little kid and a full-blown teenager is hard.

9780593644164 Survive This Safari by Natalie D. Richards

My kids love mind puzzles, and this middle grade novel is chock full of them. Lucy’s mind is blown when she is selected to participate in the Wildlands Safari Escape Challenge. She and her team race against the Wild Ambassadors to solve mind-bending puzzles and unlock new areas in the safari park. Naturally, they run into some crazy obstacles along the way. You don’t want to miss this one!

9780593645901 Bumps in the Night by Amalie Howard

Darika is mad and doesn’t think she deserves to be shipped off to her grandmother in the Caribbean for the summer. She’s also angry at her mom, who left and never came back. The second she steps foot on the island, things feel off. But after a group of misfit kids offers to help her find her mother, she gets pulled into an adventure filled with monsters, mazes, and magic.

9780735230613 Creaky Acres: A Graphic Novel by Calista Brill and Nilah Magruder, illustrated by Nilah Magruder

Sign my kids up for all the graphic novels! Nora loves her suburban hometown and close group of friends. But when her mom accepts a new job in a poor, rural area, Nora finds herself sad and lonely in a new place. Can she get used to being the new kid at school and practicing her horseback riding hobby at Creaky Acres?

9780593462393 The Human Kaboom by Adam Rubin

Do you have a child who loves all things wacky and weird? If so, check out this collection of six short stories! Even though every short story has the same name (quirky, right?), they each have a different illustrator, scenarios, and endings. These unique stories will leave your tween wanting more, so check out the author’s companion book, The Ice Cream Machine!

9780593690529 Would You Rather? Summer Edition by Lindsey Daly

School is out, everyone is relaxed, and the fun is just starting! Get some funny discussions going with this Would You Rather? book on a family road trip, sitting around the campfire, or hanging out at the beach. Your entire family will laugh at the goofy responses you come up with. It’s a surefire way to keep everyone entertained!

9780593651643 Speak Up, Santiago! by Julio Anta, illustrated by Gabi Mendez

Santi is thrilled to spend the summer in Hillside Valley, hang out with local kids, spend time with his Grandma, and eat her delicious food. There is one hang-up, though — the majority of kids speak Spanish. Even though Santi is Columbian, his Spanish is shaky. Can he keep up with everyone and absorb his Columbian heritage? This graphic novel is filled with lots of culture and friendship!

9780593696385 Encounter at Owl Rock by Rucker Moses

Oakley and Cypress may be identical twins, but that’s where the likenesses end. Cypress is into directing films and is excited to start his new movie project. Oakley loves acting in Cypress films and using his imagination. When the twins have a disagreement, Oakley runs into Owl Rock, a granite formation, and vanishes. Cypress and his friend Jaz must outmaneuver a villainous company, find Oakley, and uncover Owl Rock’s deepest secrets.

9780593481417 Sea Swept by Leah Cypess

The final installment of the Sisters Ever After series is here! Sisters Daria and Meria are both happy where they are. Daria lives in the sea as a mermaid, but Meria traded her fins for legs to be with the love of her life. Things drastically change when Daria receives a message about her sister’s disappearance up on land. Will she leave the beloved sea and venture to the land above to save her sister?

9780593662304 Quantum Interstellar Sports League #1 by J. Scott Savage, illustrated by Brandon Dorman

If you have a child who loves football, space, and graphic novels, this book is for them! Wyatt doesn’t love football, regardless of his legendary quarterback dad. Somehow, he becomes the quarterback in an intergalactic tournament against some scary aliens! This novel is full of fun, humor, and friendship.

Looking for summer reading ideas for younger or older kids? Check out our 2024 lists for Kids Ages 3 – 5, Ages 6 – 8, and Teens.

You might also like:

• Page-Turning Series That Middle Grade Readers Love
• Books About Sleepaway Summer Camp for Tweens
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• Graphic Novels Tween Girls Can’t Get Enough Of
• Hauntingly Good Ghost Stories for 9- to 12-Year-Olds

The post The Ultimate Summer Reading List for Kids Ages 9 – 12 appeared first on Brightly.