Books for Middle Schoolers
In that sweet spot between elementary school and high school, here are some of the best new titles for middle school readers. GN= graphic novel (Updated October 2026)
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This Book Won't Burn
New to her small-town school, Noor stands up to a politician who wants to censor most of the books in her school library, even when he threatens violence on her and her friends.
Format: Book
Availability: Available
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Hail Mariam
Mariam transfers to a Catholic middle school, where she may be the first Muslim any of the other students have ever met, and certainly the first Muslim asked to perform as Mary in the Christmas play.
Format: Book
Availability: Available
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Speak Up, Santiago!
Santi is spending a summer month with his abuela, who expects him to speak Spanish with her. While he understands her fine, he has trouble speaking fluently. Can his new soccer team friends help? GN
Format: Graphic Novel
Availability: All copies in use
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The Incredibly Human Henson Blayze
Black middle school student Henson is so good at football, he is invited to play for the high school team, earning his town’s respect, but when his best friend is hurt by police, he must stand up for his values, no matter the cost.
Format: Book
Availability: Available
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Into the Rapids
When a huge storm hits their mountain village, Addy’s mom retreats from traumatic memories, but Addy still plans to attend survival camp to honor her late father. Can she get there herself by canoe?
Format: Book
Availability: Available
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Danilo Was Here
When US forces invade Panama and Danilo is given the opportunity to train for baseball in the US, he must decide whether to leave behind his mother and little sister and possibly find his father.
Format: Book
Availability: Available
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Fathom Fall
In a near future dystopia where water is rationed by corporations, Wyatt competes in a video game to prove he’s not spoiled but useful. When the game monsters appear in his house, he knows it’s more than just a game.
Format: Book
Availability: All copies in use
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One Big Open Sky
In 1879, Lettie and her family leave Mississippi for open land in Nebraska, hoping to start a new life as homesteaders.
Format: Book
Availability: Available
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Kwame Crashes the Underworld
Kwame refuses to acknowledge his grandmother’s passing, but when a mythological monkey steals the dashiki she made for him, he must dive to the underworld to find it – but he also finds his grandmother, and she is young and alive.
Format: Book
Availability: Available
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The Forgotten Summer of Seneca
In the heart of New York City, Rowan discovers an alternate history Seneca, an all-Black community that existed in the 1800s. When she learns the portal between worlds is destabilizing, she must team up with Seneca girl Lily to restore the portal.
Format: Book
Availability: Available
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