Ultimate List of Middle Grade Books for Tweens

Middle Grade Books for Tweens

If you are looking for middle grade books, you’ve come to the right place! We’ve rounded up some of our favorite kids books specifically written for 9 to 13-year-olds.

While these tween books may have been written with that age group in mind, don’t let that stop you from reading them if you are older! Some of my favorite ever stories are books for tweens!

The Vanderbeekers, The Mysterious Benedict Society, and Anne of Green Gables are just a few of the middle grade books that I adore as an adult. They are all mentioned below along with other picks our 5 middle grade kids have enjoyed.

Because we’ve raised a collective 5 children in this age group, you’ll find a diverse group of tween books on this list. There are fantasy stories, mysteries, fiction and non-fiction tales and more genres broken out below.

Be sure to use the page jumps to navigate this list of books for tweens more easily! And please let us know if your favorite middle grade books made our list!

*The tween books post contains affiliate links. Purchases made through links result in a small commission to us at no cost to you. Some books have been gifted. All opinions are our own.

Ultimate List of Middle Grade Books Tweens

Best of 2023 // Non-Fiction // Fiction // Historical Fiction // Mystery // Fantasy // Classic // Graphic Novels // Realistic Fiction // Audiobooks // Coming of Age

What Does Middle Grade mean in Books?

Middle Grade books are stories written specifically for readers aged 9-13. These books for tweens are written at a reading level they can understand and feature topics appropriate for that age group.

Best Tween Books for 2023

the one and only ruby

The One and Only Ruby by Katherine Applegate

The third book in the One and Only series is focused on Ruby’s stories about her time in Africa. As always, Ivan, Bob, and Ruby’s bond captivated my family’s attention. Our kids had a hard time deciding which was their favorite book in this series. This book definitely has some sad parts so we want to give fair warning for any sensitive readers.

However, if you are a Katherine Applegate lover, this book does not disappoint. Once again, Applegate makes our list of best middle grade books of 2023! #gifted

the night raven

Author: Johan Rundberg

Year: 2023

Genre: Middle Grade Historical Mystery

Age: 9 – 12

More info: The Moonwood Mysteries #1

In this tween book, a girl from an orphanage notices details that others can’t see. Soon, she’s called in to help a police officer solve a murder. Could the night raven serial killer still be on the loose?

Murder, Child abuse, Death

This was a great historical mystery for fans of Sherlock Holmes. While the mystery was solved in this story, it looks like it will be the first in a new series. I can’t wait to revisit Mika and her friends.

Find this book in: Middle Grade Books for Tweens / Books for 12-year-olds

Non-Fiction Books for Tweens

The Boys in the Boat Youth

Author: Daniel James Brown

Year: 2015

Genre: Nonfiction

Age: 10+

Like the adult version, this edited-down book tells the true tale of the 1936 USA men’s rowing team and their unlikely run for the gold medal. It’s a non-fiction story that reads like fiction, and sports nuts will love this story!

The Olympic games scenes gave me such a heightened sense of American pride. I was rooting for the team and cheering them on the whole time. I thought I would be bored by the minutia of rowing, but I wasn’t.

Find this book in: Olympics Books for Kids / Books for Tweens / Best Books for a 12-year-old

Hidden Figures Young Readers Edition

Author: Margot Lee Shetterly

Year: 2016

Genre: Nonfiction

Age: 9 – 12

More info: New York Time Bestseller

This true and amazing story is about Black female mathematicians and their role in the space race. So many people know this story because of the movie, but the book gives so many more details. This young reader edition is edited for younger readers.

These women, who were originally sent to teach math in the South’s segregated schools, were called into service during WWII. They were some of the most brilliant minds of their generation. They eventually helped in the race to space during the Cold War.

Racism, Sexism

When I read this book, years before the movie came out, I couldn’t put it down. I was mesmerized by what these overlooked women had gone through as they worked to help their country. I recently gave my daughter this version so she could read the story as well.

Find this book in: Middle Grade Books for Tweens / Best Books for 12-year-olds

All thirteen

Author: Christina Soontornvat

Year: 2020

Genre: Middle Grade Nonfiction

Age: 10 – 12

More info: Newbery Honor Winner,  Robert F. Sibert Honor Book, Kirkus Prize for Young People’s Literature

It is the true story of the Thai cave rescue of the 12 boys and their soccer coach in 2018. The boys and the coach had gone in to explore the cave and when they went to leave, the floodwaters left them trapped inside.

Complete with pictures, this story is told in a style that makes you feel like you were there.

Find this book in: Best Books for 10-year-olds / Best Middle Grade Books

from an idea to disney

From An Idea To Disney: How Imagination Built a World of Magic by Lowey Bundy Sichol

This book tells the story of how Disneyland and the Disney company were created from Walt Disney’s imagination. It’s a fun non-fiction book that is the first in a series.

Other books in the series look at companies like Nike, Google, and Lego. It’s the perfect series of books for a 10-year-old looking to get into the non-fiction genre.

Fiction Middle Grade Books

wonder

Author: R.J. Palacio

Year: 2012

Genre: Middle Grade Fiction

Age: 9 – 12

More info: Wonder #1, New York Times Bestseller

August Pullman is a boy with an extraordinary facial difference.  He has been homeschooled his entire life and is starting 5th grade at Beecher Prep. This book for 11-year-olds is amazing and has a lesson about love and acceptance that everyone needs to read.

Bullying

This is a must-read story for middle schoolers. It is an amazing book about embracing differences, kindness, and being yourself. However, it would also be a wonderful read-aloud book for a younger audience.

Find this book in: Realistic Fiction Books / Best Books for 11-year-olds / Middle Grade Books for Tweens / Books that Will Make You Cry / Chapter Books to Read Aloud / Family Audiobooks / School Books

Pay Attention Carter Jones

Author: Gary D. Schmidt

Year: 2019

Genre: Middle Grade Fiction

Age: 8 – 12

⁣My son adored Pay Attention, Carter Jones. He loved the premise of the butler coming over to teach Carter to play cricket. He liked how Carter learned about how to be a gentleman from the butler who is strict, but exactly what the family needs during their troubling time.⁣

My son has recommended this story to a few of his friends already and my mom even read it and enjoyed it!⁣ It’s a heartfelt, thought-provoking read in all the best ways. It’s a perfect coming-of-age story.

Find this book in: Middle Grade Books for Tweens / Best Books for 11-year-olds

pie

Author: Sarah Weeks

Year: 2013

Genre: Middle Grade Fiction

Age: 8 – 12

When Alice’s Aunt Polly dies, she takes her world-famous, secret pie crust recipe with her. In her will, she leaves the pie receipt to her cat, Lardo.

Who does she leave the cat to? Alice. Now, Alice and her friend have to find the recipe for happiness together in this endearing and funny book.

This is a realistic fiction book that every one of my children has read and loved. It’s an endearing story that has become quite the classic.

Find this book in: Realistic Fiction for Kids / Best Books for 12-year-olds

The candymakers

Author: Wendy Maas

Year: 2010

Genre: Middle Grade Mystery

Age: 8 – 12

More info: The Candymakers #1

I decided to read this book with my boys prior to our visit to Candytopia. It was a lovely take on life at a candy factory and felt almost like an updated version of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. 4 kids are competing to win a candy-making contest to have their creation mass-produced.

The candy reminded me of Wonka’s Factory, but the whimsy and fun of the book reminded me a bit of Mr. Lemoncello’s Library. There are puzzles and secrets to unfold and descriptions of delectable delights. In short, it’s a fun read-aloud story that will leave you craving the next book in the series and a closet full of chocolate.

Find this book in: Books for Tweens / Best Books for 10-year-olds / Mystery Books for Tweens / Family Audiobooks

the boy at the back of the class

The Boy at the Back of the Class by Onjali Raúf

This is the story of Ahmet, a Syrian refugee, who ends up in Mrs. Khan’s 4th-grade class. At first, the students are wary of the strange new boy.

Soon, they learn that Ahmet has been separated from his family when he was trying to escape the war. Soon the kids were banding together to help Ahmet reunite with his family.

My son cried while reading this book for 10-year-olds. The story touched his heart and evoked such compassion in him.

Historical Fiction Middle Grade Books

the war that saved my life

Author: Kimberly Brubaker Bradley

Year: 2015

Genre: Historical Fiction

Age: 9+

More info: The War That Saved My Life #1, Newbery Honor Book, Winner of the Schneider Family Book Award

Ada is a 10-year-old girl who lives in a one-room world gazing at the world from one window.  She was born with a club foot and teaches herself to walk in secret.  When the children who lived in London were evacuated to the country at the start of WW2, Ada escapes her abusive mother and leaves London with her little brother.

Ada thrives in the countryside on Susan’s farm and watching her grow is a pleasure. As Susan bonds with Ada and her brother, she starts to wonder what will happen when she returns to London.

War, Child Abuse

I read this realistic fiction book in a few hours and immediately ordered the sequel The War I Finally Won.  It is a story of love and survival in the face of overwhelming obstacles that is emotionally crafted and brilliantly written.

Find this book in: WWII Books for Kids / Coming-of-Age Books for Teens / Best Books for a 12-year-old

Alan Gratz Refugee

Author: Alan Gratz

Year: 2017

Genre: Middle Grade Historical Fiction

Age: 10+

More info: New York Times Bestsellers

Three tales in one, this realistic fiction story is told in alternating chapters by three narrators.  The stories feature Josef, a Jewish refugee fleeing WWII Germany, Isabel a Cuban girl on her way to Miami in 1994, and Mahmoud a Syrian refugee seeking asylum in Germany in 2015. The chapters rotate between the three characters and their stories do connect at the end in a meaningful and moving way.

War, Child Death

The characters are all about 13 years old but shoulder burdens that would be hard for an adult to handle. Gratz accurately portrays each child’s struggle with both grace and clarity – not shying away from difficult emotions and even death.

Find this book in: Best Books for 11-year-olds / Realistic Fiction Books for Kids / Middle Grade Books for Tweens / Best Audiobooks of All Time / Best Books of 2017 / Books That Will Emotionally Wreck You / WWII Books for Kids 

Hugo Cabret

Author: Brian Selznick

Illustrator: Brian Selznick

Year: 2007

Genre: Graphic Novel

Age: 8 – 11

More info: Caldecott Medal Winner

This middle grade mystery is an amazing story of Hugo Cabret, an orphan in the Paris train station where he winds the clocks so that nobody will discover his secrets. Soon he discovers a drawing and a notebook that will lead him to the biggest adventure of his life.

Grief, Death of parent

Don’t let the length of this mystery book for kids deter you. Even though it’s long, there are gorgeous illustrations on every other page and the writing is only a paragraph at a time.

Find this book in: Best Books for 10-year-olds / Middle Grade Books for Tweens / Mystery Books for Tweens / Long Books

The Inquisitors Tale

Author: Adam Gidwitz

Illustrator: Hatem Aly

Year: 2016

Genre: Middle Grade Fantasy

Age: 8 – 12

More info: A New York Times Bestseller, Newbery Honor Book

In 13th century France, three children set out on a quest with their dog. Each of the children and the dog have a magical gift. Together, they survive a kidnapping, help defeat a dragon, and save the kingdom. Come read the tale of these unlikely friends – I promise, you won’t be able to put it down!

All of my kids have read this book and they all loved it- devoured it in a day. Somehow this book can combine historical characters and mythical tales of the 13th century with morals and lessons that are completely relevant today.

Find this book in: Middle Grade Books / Best Books for a 10-year-old / Fantasy Books for Tweens / Dragon Books for Tweens

Mystery Books for Tweens

City Spies

Author: James Ponti

Year: 2020

Genre: Middle Grade Fiction

Age: 10 – 12

More info: City Spies #1

MI6 has recruited a bunch of kids to be their newest spy group – the City Spies. They attend boarding school while learning various spy tactics. Soon they get to go on a mission to Paris to put what they learned into action. Subsequent books take place in San Francisco and Beijing.

At this point, this series is on our pre-order series list. It’s action-packed and filled with the kind of adventure my boys crave in their books.

Find this book in: Best Books for 11-year-olds / Middle Grade Books for Tweens / Mystery Books for Tweens

The Van Gogh Deception

Author: Deron R. Hicks

Year: 2017

Genre: Middle Grade Mystery

Age: 9 – 13

More info: Lost Mysteries #1

Described as Dan Brown meets Jason Bourne, this story lives up to those clever titles. After all, it opens in the National Gallery when a boy wakes up with amnesia.

What unravels is a high-stakes mystery with a boy trying to figure out his identity while simultaneously trying to stop one of the biggest art heists to ever be attempted.

The first in a series of middle grade novels, it captured the attention of my D.C.-obsessed son. It’s a fast-paced art caper that will keep your tween fully engrossed. It’s the first in a must-read series of books for 11-year-olds.

Find this book in: Best Books for 11-year-olds / Books for Tweens / Middle Grade Mystery Books

belly up

Author: Stuart Gibbs

Year: 2010

Genre: Middle Grade Mystery

Age: 9 – 12

More info: Fun Jungle #1

After a hippo dies at FunJungle Zoo, it’s up to Teddy and his friend Summer to prove that the Hippo was murdered. But investigating Hippo’s homicide is a dangerous affair. This funny story kept this former zoo employee quite entertained.

A funny, clever story that’s the first in the FunJungle series by Stuart Gibbs.

Find this book in: Books for 10-year-olds / Zoo Books / Best Middle Grade Books / Best Mystery Books for Tweens

91GOrUcpiVL

Author: Trenton Lee Stewart

Year: 2007

Genre: Middle Grade Mystery

Age: 9 – 12

More info: Mysterious Benedict Society #1

This delightful story is about a group of extremely gifted children who are sent to spy on an evil organization. Together, these genius kids use logic and quick thinking to accomplish their secret mission without being caught! The children in the Mysterious Benedict Society must infiltrate the Learning Institute for the Very Enlightened to uncover a plot to control the minds of citizens around the world.

I read this story to my boys at bedtime and it was the perfect read-aloud. We all enjoyed the complexity of the story and the silly scenarios. Years later, we watched the Disney TV adaptation as well!

This is the first middle-grade book in a series that is geared toward older kids. It was funny and interesting and extremely clever.

Find this book in: Middle Grade Mystery Books / Books About Puzzles / Books like KOTLC / Secret Society Books / Best Gifts for 10-year-olds / Best Books for a 10-year-old / Books With Neurodivergent Characters

mysterious benedict society

The Best Mystery Books for Tweens: Middle-Grade Mysteries to Devour

Looking for more mystery middle grade books for your kiddo? We’ve got you covered with dozens of recommendations.

Middle Grade Books: Fantasy

Harry Potter

Author: J. K Rowling

Year: 1998

Genre: Middle-Grade fantasy

More info: Harry Potter #1 of 7

Age Range: 8+ (note that some of the later books in the series may not be appropriate until a bit older)

I was in university when this book was published and the first four were sitting on my younger brother’s bookshelf before I picked it up to see what the fuss was about. I read all four books in as many days and was married with a child before the final book was published. 

This story introduces us to Harry, Ron Weasley, and Hermione Granger; our fearless trio.  We also meet the other favorite beloved and detested characters that make the Harry Potter book series so special. After all, what would Hogwarts be without Hagrid, Dumbledore, Professor McGonagall, Professor Snape, and Draco Malfoy?

Parental death

I firmly believe that JK Rowling changed children’s literature more profoundly than any other author. I realize that this is a very strong statement. But, until her, there have never been books that have had such an impact on the world of reading. The books are so brilliantly laid out with easter eggs in book one that are essential for the entire plot. I believe this is one of the best fantasy series ever written.

In my opinion, this is the best children’s fantasy series ever written. It features strong lessons on morality, inventive plotlines, and hidden threads woven throughout the entire series. Jim Dale’s audiobook narration of this book is award-winning. He voices over 200 characters, each with distinct accents and my kids have listened to the entire series multiple times.

Find this book in: Halloween Chapter Books / Audiobooks for Kids / Harry Potter Books in Order / Books like Percy Jackson / Fantasy Books for Tweens / Magic School Books / Jackie’s Favorite Books / Kirsten’s Favorite Books / Books to Read Aloud

Eragon

Author: Christopher Paolini

Year: 2003

Genre: Fantasy

Age: 11+

More info: Inheritance Cycle #1

Eragon, a 15-year-old boy, believes that he is merely a farm boy until one day, he discovers a polished blue stone in the forest. When the stone hatches and a dragon emerges, Eragon enters a world full of magic and power that he never knew existed. Eragon discovers he is a dragon rider, one of the few left.  

This middle-school fantasy series is a world of dragons, magic, and power.  Almost a “Dragon Masters” for the more mature reader, this series took me into a world of fantasy I won’t forget.

Find this book in: Fantasy Books for Tweens / Popular Fantasy Series for Young Adults / Fantasy Books for Teens / Books like Fourth Wing / Dragon Books for Adults and Teens / Dragon Books for Tweens / Best Books for 12-year-olds

Keeper of the Lost Cities

Author: Shannon Messenger

Year: 2012

Genre: Middle Grade Fantasy

Age: 9 – 12

More info: New York Times Bestseller, USA Today Bestseller, KOTLC #1

Move over Harry Potter, there is a new middle grade fantasy series poised to take your throne! Meet Sophie Foster, a newly found elf living in the human world. In book one of this ever-growing series, she’s taken back to the Lost Cities and sent to Foxfire Academy to learn to harness her powers as a Telepath. In the process, she is welcomed into a new adopted family (The Ruewens), makes loads of friends (Fitz, Keefe, Biana, and Dex to name a few), and uncovers a secret organization trying to destroy the human world.

Both of my boys adore Sophie, Keefe, Fitz, and the gang of Foxfire Academy. As the series progressed, I got invested in the Black Swan’s fight against the Neverseen. Each book is better than the last one!

I listened to this with my 3 kids on our summer road trip to Toronto. By the end of the car ride, even my husband was hooked on this series!

Find this book in: Secret Society Books / Fantasy Books for Tweens / Books for 11-year-olds / Books Like Harry Potter / Kids Audiobooks / Books with Magical Creatures

percy jackson

Author: Rick Riordan

Year: 2005

Genre: Middle Grade Fantasy

Age:9-13

More info:
Percy Jackson and The Olympian Book #1
Currently a Series on Disney Plus

This first Percy Jackson book is about our beloved Percy, who discovers he is a demi-god and must recover Zeus’s stolen lightning bolt. He travels into the underworld to locate the lightning bolt and, at the same time, try to save his mother.

His amazing adventures with Annabeth and Grover along the way create the foundation for all the books that follow in this amazing and epic series.

I don’t think anyone has read this middle grade fantasy series and not loved it. It’s a contemporary Greek mythology retelling for the ages. It is fun and exciting!

While the original films based on the books are generally considered to be flops, the show adapted on Disney+ is fantastic! Season 2 is currently being filmed and will follow the second book in the series.

Find this book in: Percy Jackson Books in Order / Rick Riordan Books / Best Books for 10-year-olds / Books like Keeper of the Lost Cities / Tween & Teen Fantasy Books / Books With Neurodivergent Characters

Middle grade fantasy header

45+ Best Fantasy Books for Tweens and Middle Grade Fantasy Readers

For more fantasy tween books, you must check out this list.

Classic Books for Tweens

ellen Raskin

Author: Ellen Raskin

Year: 1979

Genre: Middle Grade Mystery

Age: 9 – 11

More info: Newbery Medal Winner

When Mr. Westing dies, he leaves the residents of Sunset Towers named in his will. But they need to solve the mystery of his death in order to win control of his company and gain his vast fortune. Your family will love trying to work out what happened along with the characters!

The tween book that got me into mysteries as a child is also great as an audiobook. This classic 70s book is still a must-read today! It has withstood the test of time.

Find this book in: Best Middle Grade Mystery Books / Books for 11-year-olds / Books About Puzzles

anne of Green gables

Author: L. M. Montgomery

Year: 1908

Genre: Classic

Age: 10+

More info: Anne of Green Gables #1

I was immediately drawn to Anne upon first reading this story. She is smart, precocious, and has a way of making everyone love her while simultaneously finding new ways to get into trouble. 

Anne is an orphan sent to live with siblings Matthew and Marilla Cuthbert who wanted a male orphan to help them on the farm. Anne was sent to them instead. She is bright, loquacious, and wins their hearts.

I cherish this entire book series and the TV miniseries inspired by it. I vividly remember watching Megan Follows as Anne completely transfixed. I was so enamored, that I remember asking my grandmother to get me the books to read!

This is one of my all-time favorite books. Something is comforting about this cozy book that makes me read it repeatedly. It is a beautiful book about friendship and found family. Because of this book, I hope to visit Prince Edward Island one day.

Find this book in: Coming-of-Age Books / Friendship Books / Realistic Fiction / Books with Green in the Title / Fun Books for Teens

a wrinkle in time

Author: Madeleine L’Engle

Year: 1962

Genre: Middle Grade Sci-Fi

Age: 8 – 11

More info: Time Quintet #1, Newbery Medal Winner

This classic sci-fi book for tweens tells the story of Meg, a high school student, who must travel through space and time to rescue her father.

Along with her younger brother and her friend, Meg learns about the tesseract- a wrinkle in time and space that she must travel through to save her father from Evil.

I remember loving this science fiction book as a kid. As far as classic sci-fi books go, this is a must-read.

Find this book in: Classic Books for Kids / Kids Audiobooks / Best Sci-fi Books / Middle Grade Books / Best Books for 10-year-olds

holes

Author: Louis Sachar

Year: 1998

Genre: Middle Grade Fiction

Age: 9 – 12

More info: National Book Award Winner, Newbery Medal Winner, Holes #1

When a boy under a curse is sent to a detention camp he’s taught to behave by digging holes all day, every day.  It doesn’t take long for him to realize he’s digging for a reason – but what are the camp wardens looking to find?

Holes should be on every child’s list. It’s clever and will captivate the attention of any child. Read it and then watch the movie starring Shia LeBeouf.

Find this book in: Books About Camp / Best Books for 11-year-olds / Mystery Books for Tweens / Bedtime Stories for Kids / Ultimate List of Middle Grade Books

Bridge to Terabithia and more books for 12-year-olds

Bridge to Terabithia by Katherine Paterson

I’m pretty sure this coming-of-age tween book is required reading for everyone! Jess Aarons has been practicing all summer so he can be the fastest runner in the fifth grade. And he almost is, until the new girl in school, Leslie Burke outpaces him. The two become fast friends and spend most days in the woods behind Leslie’s house, where they invent an enchanted land called Terabithia.

One morning, Leslie goes to Terabithia without Jess and a tragedy occurs. It will take the love of his family and the strength that Leslie has given him for Jess to be able to deal with his grief. This realistic fiction book set in the 70s is an award winner for a reason.

Middle Grade Books: Graphic Novels

Chunk and other books for a 10-year-old

Chunky by Yehudi Mercado

Hudi is trying to figure out what sport he likes to play because he needs to lose weight. He’s trying to be healthy because of a serious illness he had as a younger kid. 

He invents an imaginary friend named Chunky to help cheer him on. As he goes through sport after sport, the laughs roll in. But It’s not all fun and games, his dad loses his job and we get flashbacks of the medical problem that started his journey.

My son read this graphic novel in one sitting, while I listened to him giggling on the couch. I think it’s one of the perfect middle grade books for a 10-year-old reluctant reader! 

New Kid

Author: Jerry Craft

Illustrator: Jerry Craft

Year: 2019

Genre: Graphic Novel

Age: 9 – 12

More info: Winner of the Newbery Medal, Coretta Scott King Author Award, and Kirkus Prize for Young Readers’ Literature — New Kid #1

This is a thought-provoking story about Jordan Banks, a 7th-grade boy who wants to pursue his dream of becoming an artist. Instead, his parents send him to a prestigious private school where he is one of the few diverse students. He can’t seem to figure out where he fits in at home or at school.

Racism, Classism, Bullying

This graphic novel has won numerous awards and for good reason. This is a good one for kids who aren’t yet ready for Angie Thomas’s books.

Find this book in: Graphic Novels / Best Book for 12-year-olds / Best Books for Tweens / Middle Grade Fiction / Back to School Books

Roller Girl  and other books for a 10-year-old

Roller Girl by Victoria Jamieson

This graphic novel is a Newbery Medal Winner and was an easy pick for a list of the best graphic novels of all time. Astrid and Nicole have done everything together until now. Astrid wants to go to roller derby camp.

And thus begins a summer of friendship, finding yourself, perseverance, and girl power. Astrid may be strong enough to endure middle school. Snag this if you are looking for a book for 11-year-olds.

ghosts

Author: Raina Telgemeier

Year: 2016

Genre: Graphic Novel

Age Range: 8 – 13

Raina Telgemeier has a unique way of incorporating sensitive subjects into her books without making them overwhelming or scary. In Ghosts, Cat’s younger sister, Maya, has Cystic Fibrosis. They have just moved to a new city where the air is easier for Maya to breathe.

Cat has given herself the role of protector of her younger sister and as the festival of Dia De Lost Meurtos draws closer, the two sisters each confront the idea of death in very different ways.

Terminal Illness

At its heart, Ghosts is a story about family connection. Any of Raina Telegemeier’s books can be considered incredible graphic novels for tweens. She’s won numerous awards and after reading this one, it’s clear why!

Find this book in: Best Books for 13-year-olds / Middle Grade Books for Tweens / Ghost Books / Graphic Novels

Realistic Fiction Books for Tweens

to night owl

Author: Holly Goldberg Sloan and Meg Wolitzer

Year: 2019

Genre: Middle-Grade Fiction

More info: Two amazing authors with a story told via letters and emails.
Age Range: 9+

This tween book came so highly recommended that I was afraid it wouldn’t live up to the hype. But, I loved it. Is it about two girls who could not be more different whose fathers fall in love and send them to camp together so they can meet before they all become a family.

It is told through emails sent back and forth between the girls, family, and friends as well. It is so well written and is ultimately a story about friendship and unconditional love. This middle grade book deals with really complicated issues like what makes a family in a completely approachable way.

This is a book written by two fantastic writers in such a unique way- it is told through letters and emails. It is relatable for children and adults alike, even though it is appropriate for ages 9 and up.

Find this book in: Ultimate List of Middle Grade Books for Tweens / Books About Sisters / Epistolary Novels/ Best Books for a 12-Year-Old / Books about Camp

Kelly Yang 1

Author: Kelly Yang

Year: 2019

Genre: Middle Grade Fiction

Age: 9 – 11

More info: Front Desk #1, Winner of the Asian / Pacific American Award for Children’s Literature

This recently banned book tells the story of Mia and her family who are immigrants from China. Mia’s struggles to be successful in America are met with the divide between classes in her school, the racism she faces, and her family’s quest to make ends meet.

Racism

I loved learning from Mia and watching her problem-solve to help her family as they took over caring for the Calivista Motel. If you are looking for realistic fiction middle-grade books that skew a little younger, check out this realistic fiction book.

Find this book in: Coming-of-Age Books / Books for 10-year-olds / Audiobooks for Kids / Hotel Novels / Books about Poverty and It’s Impact

song for a whale

Author: Lynne Kelly

Year: 2019

Genre: Middle Grade Fiction

Age: 9 – 12

This coming-of-age story is about a deaf girl who is struggling to connect with her community and a whale named Blue 52 who can’t find his ocean community either. She sets out to connect with Blue 52 and along the way she finds her inner strength beautifully.

This was one of the realistic fiction audiobooks for tweens I listened to with my kids and we all just adored it. I had tears streaming down my face at the end.

Find this book in: Books for 10-year-olds / Audiobooks for Kids / Realistic Fiction / Animal Books for Kids / Best Books for 10-year-olds

The Vanderbeekers of 141st

Author: Karina Yan Glaser

Year: 2018

Genre: Middle Grade Fiction

Age: 7 – 12

More info: Vanderbeekers #1

This charming story is about a bi-racial family in Harlem with 5 kids who are about to lose their home before Christmas. Why? Because their reclusive landlord won’t renew their lease.⁣

My entire family enjoyed this delightful tale of the siblings trying to win their landlord over so they don’t have to leave home. It was full of all the antics you would expect of a big family. ⁣

I can’t begin to tell you how connected my family has grown to the Vanderbeekers over the course of the series. They are sweet, funny, good-natured, mischievous children – each with a personality all their own. Their antics make for incredible stories, but the heart and love at the center of the family keep me reaching for these books. This is hands down one of my favorite series for middle grade readers and the one I recommend the most often.

I love that the Vanderbeekers’ story normalizes city living and a bi-racial family – something that’s hard to find in many children’s book series. You will fall in love with this cast of characters and as the series progresses you’ll come to regard them as family.

Find this book in: Best Books for a 10-Year-Old / Best Family Audiobooks For Road Trips / Read Aloud Books / Realistic Fiction Books / Christmas Chapter Books

Audiobooks for Tweens

Hello Universe

Author: Erin Entrada Kelly

Year: 2017

Genre: Middle Grade Fiction

Age: 9 – 11

More info: Newbery Medal Winner

In this Newberry Medal Winner, four children tell the story of one out-of-the-ordinary day. When Chet pulls a prank that leaves Virgil in a well, Kaori, Gen, and Valencia go on an epic search to find their missing classmate. They don’t start the day as friends, but they grow close throughout the story.

This realistic fiction book for a 13-year-old was a Newberry Award winner for a reason. It gave the mom in me a bit of an anxiety attack when one of the characters fell down the well, but all’s well that ends well.

This tween book is a read that I’d recommend for all ages. In particular, I liked how it addressed bullying, being different, and overcoming shyness.

Find this book in: Realistic Fiction Books / Best Books for 11-year-olds / Middle Grade Books

The Parker Inheritance

Author: Varian Johnson

Year: 2018

Genre: Middle Grade Mystery

Age: 9 – 12

More info: Coretta Scott King Author Honor Winner

Two new friends, both overcoming personal struggles, end up on a hunt to find a hidden fortune in the town of Lambert, South Carolina. Along the way, they encounter the racist past of the city and learn how the deep-rooted racism impacted Lambert long-term.

Racism

The Parker Inheritance was such a fun listen! It reminded me of The Westing Game, which it references frequently and was clearly a source of inspiration in the best way. I loved the modern twist and more thought-provoking spin on the classic puzzle mystery book. It’s a must-listen and one of my favorite audiobooks for tweens!

Find this book in: Best Books for 11-year-olds / Middle Grade Books for Tweens

wishtree

Wishtree by Katherine Applegate

It is ultimately a beautiful story of love, friendship, and kindness.  It is all told from the perspective of the tree. 

Trees can talk, didn’t you know?  After a few hundred years, the tree decides to intervene in the lives of those the sees every day. This is a great tween book about welcoming immigrants and making a new friend.

echo

Author: Pam Muñoz Ryan

Year: 2015

Genre: Middle Grade Fantasy

Age: 10 – 12

More info: Newbery Honor Book, New York Times Bestseller, Children’s Literature Legacy Award Winner

The story is three tales woven together in one with a magical harmonica at the center. The story follows a harmonica as it lands in the hands of Freidrich in Germany, Mike in Pennsylvania, and Ivy in California.

Part fairy tale and part historical fiction, this is one story that is amazing for middle grade and adults alike. Each child has their own adventure but the end brings the three stories together in a beautiful way.

Racism, Antisemitism

It’s not often that I find myself contemplating a middle grade story long after I have finished it, but I have thought of this one many times in the years since I read it. My children loved it just as much as I did when we listened to it during a road trip.

I listened to this feel-good book and it blew me away. The full-cast audiobook plays music so it is a full sensory experience. In our opinion, this story is best in audiobook format. 

Find this book in: World War II Books for Kids / Magical Realism Books / Books for 11-Year-Olds / Audiobooks for Kids / Novels About Music

sarah J Mass Header

The Best Family Audiobooks For Road Trips and Home Listening

For more audiobooks for tweens, check out this post.

Coming of Age Middle Grade Books

the crossover

Author: Kwame Alexander

Year: 2014

Genre: Middle Grade Fiction

Age: 10 – 13

More info: Coretta-Scott King Award Winner, Newberry Medal Winner, The Crossover #1

Kwame Alexander has won many awards for his incredible prose. This tween novel, the first in a series, is no exception having won both the Newberry and The Coretta-Scott King Award. The Crossover is about Josh Bell a basketball-loving middle-schooler who also loves to rap. He learns to grow up and figure out who he is on and off the court – and especially what differentiates him from his twin brother, Jordan.

Death of parent, Grief

Kwame Alexander has won many awards for his incredible proses. This tween novel, the first in a series, is no exception having won both the Newberry and The Coretta-Scott King Award. My son and I loved this one on audiobook!

Find this book in: Best Books for 10-year-olds / Realistic Fiction Books / Middle Grade Fiction / Best Books for Tweens

Long Way Down

Author: Jason Reynolds

Year: 2019

Genre: Fiction

Age: 12+

More info: A Newbery Honor Book, A Coretta Scott King Honor Book, A Printz Honor Book, A Time Best YA Book of All Time

This book for a 13-year-old takes place throughout a 60-second elevator ride. 15-year-old Will is taking the elevator down on his way to shoot his brother’s killer. Visited by spirits at each level as he descends, he needs to decide if he should continue the cycle of street violence or let his brother’s death go unavenged.

Gun violence

This moving book about grief is perfect for teens. It’s not a long story, but it doesn’t need to be. I would recommend it for a parent-child book club because everyone will find this powerful story to be thought-provoking and worthy of discussion!

Find this book in: Best Books for 12-year-olds / Fiction Books about Grief / Middle Grade Books for Tweens

A kind of paradise

Author: Amy Rebecca Tan

Year: 2019

Genre: Middle Grade Fiction

Age: 8 – 12

The story revolves around Jaime who, after doing something bad at school, is doing community service hours at the library for the summer. Jaime is reluctant to volunteer at first but quickly grows to love the staff and regulars at the library.

I read this as a read-aloud with both of my children (boys 6-8) even though it’s technically a Middle Grade book. We adored this charming tale so much that we stayed up to late reading it together.

Find this book in: Realistic Fiction Books / Best Books for 11-year-olds / Middle Grade Books for Tweens

the miscalculations of lightning girl

The Miscalculations of Lightning Girl by Stacy McAnulty

My 3rd-grade math lover inhaled this tween book in 2 days. It’s all about a 12-year-old girl who was struck by lightning and became a math wiz.

She’s been homeschooled her whole life, but now her grandmother wants her to try to go to school just for one year. She has to make one friend, join one activity, and read one book that isn’t math related. Can she do it?

What age are middle grade books for?

Generally, the content and writing level of middle grade books is geared toward 9 to 13-year-olds. Children at this age are able to read independently and can understand the topics within a middle grade novel without struggling.

Can adults read middle grade books?

Of course! I adore listening to middle grade books as an adult. I listen to them in the car with my kids, and by myself if I’m interested in the premise. Just because a book is written for kids it doesn’t mean adults can’t also enjoy it!

What are your favorite middle grade books? Have you read any of these books for tweens?

For more middle grade books, check out our list of books for 10-year-old, 11-year-old, 12-year-old, or 13-year-old readers.

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