My list of favourite middle-grade books was the most difficult one to make! Until the second I hit ‘Publish’, I kept changing my mind about which books to include. I almost made this top fifteen – it is my blog after all, no one is dictating how many I should have here … But I restricted myself. And yes, there are at least five more that I want to put here but didn’t.
The Girl Who Walked on Air
The Girl Who Walked on Air is the perfect combination of adventure, suspense and drama. Louie dreams of becoming the showstopper of the circus, but for some reason, Mr Chipchase never gives her the chance to demonstrate her talent. On the day he does, everything changes, and Louie must demonstrate her courage in more ways than one. From the details of a Victorian circus to the high drama of performance, I enjoyed everything about this book!
Charmed Life (Chrestomanci #1)
The wonder of this book lies first in the characters that jump out of the pages and come alive to you and then in the story. Gwendolen, Cat and Chrestomanci – all three are splendid characters, and their story sucks you in until you read the very last page. Full of twists and turns, I love how Diana Wynne-Jones surprises and shocks you not once, but over and over again.
Read a more detailed review here.
A Library of Lemons
A family lost in books – the premise won me over before I had even opened the book. A Library of Lemons is a poignant read about the power of friendship and love. When Calypso’s mother dies, young Calypso tries very hard to find her inner strength, which will keep her going. That’s what her father says is important. But when friendship begins to blossom between Calypso and Mae, father and daughter discover something that is even more precious than inner strength. I love books that make me cry!
Read a more detailed review here.
The Bone Sparrow
The Bone Sparrow was among the most important books I read this year – doubly special because it was both important and beautiful. How much do we know about the Rohingyas? And how do we talk to children about the Rohingya crisis? The Bone Sparrow reminds us that the age-old way of telling children about anything is the most powerful – through stories. The Bone Sparrow is another story that made me weep – for how inhuman we are, and how seeds of humanity blossom even at the worst of times.
Read a more detailed review here.
Perijee and Me
Stories about friendship and love fill me up, and Perijee & Me is just perfect. Caitlin is am adorable character – funny, vulnerable and brave. When she finds a little creature that looks like a prawn, she befriends it, and that little creature grows to be her best friend, Perijee, a creature that can shape-shift and wants to look exactly like its best friend, Caitlin.
Read a more detailed review here.
Dear Mrs Naidu
Another important read, I loved Dear Mrs Naidu because of the protagonist Sarojini and her feisty Amma. This is a book that I wish would find its way into every school library, especially elite “rich kid” schools. Twelve-year-old Sarojini begins to write letters to the late Sarojini Naidu because her teacher, Annie Miss, says that this exercise will help her brain and heart grow. Of course, Sarojini is more concerned with the first because that is what will get her a job. I love her character, I love her quirks, and I love how the story progresses!
Read a more detailed review here.
The Dragon with a Chocolate Heart
I’ve read just two of Stephanie Burgis’s books and have absolutely loved both, but somehow, I haven’t reviewed either here! I adore her writing style and want to read more. The Dragon with a Chocolate Heart is a delicious book, which filled me up with tastes and smells and longing. I’m going to sneak the other one I’ve read by her into this blogpost too – A Most Improper Magick – funny, melodramatic and special!
The A-Z Djinn Detective Agency
The A-Z Djinn Detective Agency is a delightful read. Ashwin Kamath is the perfect enterprising character, determined to earn enough money to sponsor his own school trip. Yet, he isn’t my favourite character in the book. That one is Zubeida, a djinn! The bond between Ashwin and Zubeida (the A-Z in the title) is lovely, and forms the core of a funny, mad story.
Read a more detailed review here.
The Wolf Wilder
When I read a book by Katherine Rundell, my expectations are already very high. And The Wolf Wilder does not change that. It is not my favourite Rundell story, but that says more about the other books she’s written than this one. The Wolf Wilder draws you in first with the power of Feo’s character, and then with the wonder of her tale. With all the perfect ingredients of courage and love, it is a magnificent story.
Read a more detailed review here.
The House with Chicken Legs
Isn’t it wonderful when a story you love goes on to be shortlisted for several awards? The House with Chicken Legs won my heart with its portrayal of the unique relationship between a girl and her house. Every relationship is special, and this one is more special than most, especially as the story unfolds, and reveals to us, bit by bit, Marinka’s unusual backstory …
Read a more detailed review here.
Hi Varsha, What a delightful post! So well-compiled and interesting. By the time I reached the end of it, I realized I’m soon going to make my Amazon cart really happy 😀 The description for each book is so fascinating that I’m intrigued by almost all of them! I’ve even shared this link with a few relatives who’s kids love to read. Thank you so much for this post! 🙂
P.S I wonder if my name rings a bell? 🙂 I was in school with you and I’m so happy for you right now; with all your wonderful books and the amazing world you’ve created for kids! Way to go girl! Keep creating! Much love your way <3
Sabiha! How lovely to hear from you! I’m so glad you liked the post. I’ll continue the conversation in an email. 🙂