Best Middle grade Books December 2024

The Vanderbeekers of 141st Street

The Vanderbeekers of 141st Street is a heartwarming tale of family, community, and the power of determination. Set in a bustling Harlem brownstone, five siblings band together to save their beloved home from an unexpected eviction notice. With charm, wit, and a dash of mischief, the Vanderbeeker children hatch a series of endearing schemes to win over their curmudgeonly landlord. Karina Yan Glaser’s debut novel captures the essence of childhood wonder and the unbreakable bonds of family, leaving readers with a cozy, feel-good story that lingers long after the last page.

The One and Only Bob

Bob, the scrappy mutt from “The One and Only Ivan,” is back in this heartwarming adventure. Life’s been good since leaving the mall, but Bob’s world is turned upside down when a hurricane hits. Suddenly, he’s on a wild journey to find his long-lost sister. With his canine wit and unlikely courage, Bob discovers what it truly means to be a hero. It’s a tale that’ll make you laugh, cry, and hug your own furry friend a little tighter.

The Tiger Rising

Rob’s world is shattered when he discovers a caged tiger in the woods behind the motel where he lives. As he grapples with his mother’s illness and bullying at school, the tiger becomes a symbol of hope and freedom. With the help of a spirited new friend, Sistine, Rob finds the courage to confront his fears and unlock the tiger’s cage. DiCamillo’s poignant tale weaves themes of loss, friendship, and self-discovery into a touching story that will resonate with readers long after the final page.

Flora & Ulysses

Flora Belle Buckman, a self-proclaimed cynic, never expected her life to change dramatically when she rescued a squirrel from a vacuum cleaner. But that’s exactly what happened. Ulysses, the squirrel, develops superpowers and an affinity for poetry, leading Flora on a whimsical adventure filled with quirky characters and unexpected friendships. As Flora navigates her parents’ divorce and her own insecurities, she discovers that sometimes, the most extraordinary things can happen in the most ordinary places. DiCamillo’s charming tale reminds us that hope and magic can be found in the unlikeliest of circumstances.

Here in the Real World

Ware’s summer takes an unexpected turn when he stumbles upon an abandoned church. Inside, he meets Jolene, a tough-as-nails girl with a passion for art. As they transform the space into their own secret kingdom, Ware discovers a world where imagination reigns supreme. But reality threatens to intrude, forcing him to confront his fears and stand up for what he believes in. A poignant tale of friendship, creativity, and finding one’s place in the world, this book will resonate with anyone who’s ever felt like an outsider.

Pax

Twelve-year-old Peter’s world crumbles when his father enlists in the military and forces him to return his beloved fox, Pax, to the wild. Devastated, Peter embarks on a perilous journey to reunite with Pax, while the fox struggles to survive alone. Their parallel adventures, filled with heartache and hope, explore the unbreakable bond between a boy and his pet. Pennypacker’s poignant tale reminds us of the power of love and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of war and loss.

Wishtree

Red, a wise old oak tree, has watched over the neighborhood for generations. As the town’s “wishtree,” people tie their hopes and dreams to Red’s branches. But when a new family moves in and faces intolerance, Red takes an unprecedented risk. With the help of animal friends, Red embarks on a heartwarming mission to foster acceptance and bring the community together. Applegate’s touching tale reminds us of the power of kindness and the importance of embracing diversity, all through the gentle wisdom of a beloved tree.

Crenshaw

In this poignant tale, Applegate weaves a touching story of friendship, imagination, and resilience. Jackson, a young boy facing homelessness, finds solace in the unexpected return of his childhood imaginary friend, Crenshaw—a giant, talking cat. As Jackson grapples with his family’s struggles, Crenshaw’s whimsical presence offers comfort and hope. Applegate’s gentle prose and heartfelt exploration of poverty’s impact on children make this a powerful, unforgettable read that will resonate with both young and adult readers alike.

The One and Only Ivan

Ivan, a silverback gorilla, has spent 27 years behind the glass walls of his enclosure at the Big Top Mall. Resigned to his captivity, he rarely thinks about his past in the jungle. But when Ruby, a baby elephant, arrives, Ivan’s world changes. Through art and friendship, he finds the courage to confront his own history and fight for a better future. A touching tale of hope, resilience, and the power of unexpected connections.

The Thing About Jellyfish

Suzy’s world crumbles when her best friend Franny drowns during a summer swim. Refusing to accept it as a simple accident, Suzy becomes obsessed with jellyfish, convinced their sting is the real culprit. As she dives into scientific research, her grief manifests in silence, pushing away those who care. Through her quest for answers, Suzy learns about life, loss, and the delicate balance of nature. A poignant tale of a young girl’s journey through heartache and healing.