Best Middle-Grade Books of 2019 Set in the Here and Now

by Ali Benjamin

A book to make readers think, question, reach, laugh, and strive harder. Full review >

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by Ashley Herring Blake

A sweet and gentle story of self-discovery and a beautiful addition to the growing genre of middle-grade realism featuring... Full review >

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by Angela Cervantes

A touching story about the power of language, pets, and friendship. Full review >

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by India Desjardins ; illustrated by Marianne Ferrer ; translated by Solange Ouellet

Visually dreamlike, textually grounded: a deft balance proving that a single-issue exploration needn’t be formulaic or dry. Full review >

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by Alyson Gerber

An accurate and compassionate picture of growing up with ADHD is the icing on the cake of this well-told novel Full review >

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by Julie Murphy

An excellent blend of eccentricity, humor, genuine sweetness, and mild drama Full review >

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by Lisa Moore Ramée

A timely, funny, and unforgettable debut about friendship, facing your fears, and standing up for what’s right. Full review >

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by Jason Reynolds ; illustrated by Alexander Nabaum

The entire collection brims with humor, pathos, and the heroic struggle to grow up. Full review >

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by Gary D. Schmidt

The result is wonderfully impressive and layered. Full review >

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by Nanci Turner Steveson

Well done. Full review >

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by Jamie Sumner

An honest, emotionally rich take on disability, family, and growing up. Full review >

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