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Best Family Books

January 2025

The Higher Power of Lucky

Lucky, a spirited ten-year-old orphan in Hard Pan, California, eavesdrops on 12-step meetings, searching for her own “Higher Power.” Haunted by her mother’s death and fearing abandonment by her guardian, Lucky navigates friendship, family, and the harsh realities of desert life. With a knot-tying obsession and a faithful dog by her side, she embarks on a journey of self-discovery, learning that sometimes, the most powerful connections are the ones we forge ourselves.

When You Reach Me

Miranda’s world turns upside down when she starts receiving mysterious notes predicting the future. As she unravels the puzzle, she discovers the power of friendship and the complexities of time. Stead’s captivating narrative weaves together themes of love, loss, and self-discovery, leaving readers pondering the nature of reality long after the final page. A touching coming-of-age story that will resonate with both young and old, reminding us of the magic hidden in everyday life.

King of the Wind

Marguerite Henry’s “King of the Wind” is a captivating tale that whisks readers away to 18th-century Morocco. It follows the journey of a swift Arabian stallion and his devoted stable boy, Agba. Through vivid prose, Henry brings to life the sights and sounds of exotic lands, from bustling marketplaces to royal stables. I was particularly moved by the bond between horse and boy, a testament to the power of friendship across species. This Newbery Medal-winning novel is a must-read for anyone who’s ever felt a connection with animals.

Mrs. Frisby and the Rats of NIMH

Mrs. Frisby, a widowed mouse, faces a crisis when her youngest son falls ill just as the family must move to avoid the farmer’s plow. Desperate for help, she discovers a colony of extraordinary rats living beneath a rosebush. These aren’t ordinary rodents, but escaped lab subjects with enhanced intelligence. As Mrs. Frisby learns their incredible story, she finds herself caught up in a daring plan that will test her courage and challenge everything she thought she knew about the world around her.

Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Last Straw

Greg Heffley’s back, and this time he’s in hot water with his dad. Frank’s had enough of Greg’s lazy ways and decides it’s time to toughen him up. From threats of military school to embarrassing father-son bonding attempts, Greg’s summer is shaping up to be a disaster. As he navigates the perils of adolescence and his dad’s expectations, Greg’s witty observations and stick-figure illustrations bring his world to life. Will he survive his father’s plans, or will this truly be the last straw?

Misty of Chincoteague

Marguerite Henry’s beloved classic “Misty of Chincoteague” whisks readers away to the windswept shores of Assateague Island. Through the eyes of two determined siblings, we witness the magic of wild ponies and the thrill of the annual roundup. Henry’s vivid prose brings to life the salty air, the thundering hooves, and the bond between humans and animals. As I read, I found myself longing for my own pony adventure, feeling the sand between my toes and the sea breeze in my hair.

The Westing Game

Sixteen strangers gather at the reading of eccentric millionaire Sam Westing’s will, each a potential heir to his fortune. As they unravel cryptic clues in a high-stakes puzzle, unlikely alliances form and secrets unravel. I was captivated by Raskin’s clever plot twists and quirky characters, especially the brilliant young Turtle Wexler. This masterful mystery kept me guessing until the very end, reminding me why it’s a beloved classic that still feels fresh decades later.

A Walk to Remember

Landon Carter never expected to fall for Jamie Sullivan, the quiet, religious girl in his small town. But as he gets to know her, he discovers a depth and beauty he never imagined. Their unlikely romance blossoms against the backdrop of 1950s North Carolina, filled with tender moments and heart-wrenching challenges. Jamie’s unwavering faith and Landon’s journey of self-discovery will leave you laughing, crying, and believing in the transformative power of love. A poignant tale that reminds us how one person can change our lives forever.

The Choice

Travis Parker had it all—a good job, loyal friends, and a waterfront home. Yet he couldn’t shake the feeling something was missing. Enter Gabby Holland, his new neighbor. Their initial encounters are far from smooth, but an undeniable connection forms. As they navigate life’s twists and turns together, Travis discovers a love that changes everything. But when faced with an impossible choice, he must confront the true meaning of devotion and the depths of his heart.

Anne of the Island

Revisit beloved Anne Shirley as she embarks on her college journey in Kingsport. With her trademark imagination and zest for life, Anne navigates new friendships, academic challenges, and matters of the heart. Montgomery’s vivid prose brings to life the charm of campus life and the bittersweet pangs of growing up. As Anne grapples with romance and self-discovery, readers will find themselves swept up in her world, laughing and sighing along with our plucky heroine. A timeless coming-of-age tale that captures the essence of youth and the power of dreams.