Best Middle-Grade Fantasy of 2025

by Steph Cherrywell

Humor and heart entwine in this hilarious and wildly creative adventure. Full review >

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by Lily Berlin Dodd

Egg-cellent storytelling; readers will be eager for the second book. Full review >

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by H.E. Edgmon

A clever, perceptive read that’s full of love for those who are different. Full review >

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by Frances Hardinge ; illustrated by Emily Gravett

Sumptuous worldbuilding and deft plotting make for a harrowing dystopian story that nevertheless thrums with hope. Full review >

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by Aubrey Hartman ; illustrated by Marcin Minor

Heartbreaking, marvelously funny, and generously redemptive. Full review >

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by Sachiko Kashiwaba ; illustrated by Miho Satake ; translated by Avery Fischer Udagawa

Captivating and magical, with a dash of goodness baked in. Full review >

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by Erin Entrada Kelly ; illustrated by Naomi Franquiz

Hauntingly good and sure to possess any horror aficionado. Full review >

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by Lindsey Leavitt

Richly detailed and imagined; will invite repeat visits to harvest all the delights. Full review >

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by Grace Lin ; illustrated by Grace Lin

Captivating, thrilling, and emotionally satisfying. Full review >

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by Meg Medina ; illustrated by Anna Balbusso & Elena Balbusso

A thrilling, action-packed journey filled with heart, bravery, and ghostly exploits. Full review >

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by Kiyash Monsef

Breathless adventures in richly imagined settings—an entrancing sequel. Full review >

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by Alex Mullarky

A magically transcendent adventure that blends climate concerns with Celtic lore. Full review >

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by Victor Piñeiro

An action-packed story of legacy, identity, and the enduring spirit of Puerto Rico. Full review >

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by Adam Rex ; illustrated by Adam Rex

Funny, smart, and shot through with truly admirable exploits. Full review >

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by Katherine Rundell ; illustrated by Ashley Mackenzie

A spectacular return to a magical world. Full review >

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