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20 Fabulous Middle Grade Books Coming Fall 2023

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20 Fabulous Middle Grade Books Coming Fall 2023

Usually, my review calendar is about sixty to seventy percent young adult and only thirty to forty percent middle grade, but this season, I’m split pretty close to fifty-fifty for what’s on my reading list. It’s hard to keep up with all the great books coming this season, but I’m going to do my best to try! Here are my 20 most-anticipated middle grade books coming fall 2023.

Since September is already almost over (How?!), I’ve linked a few of the books I’ve finished to my reviews below.

Marvelous Middle-Grade Mondays

I’m sharing this post as a part of a weekly round-up of middle grade posts called Marvelous Middle Grade Mondays. Check out other blogs posting about middle-grade books today on Marvelous Middle Grade Mondays at Always in the Middle with Greg Pattridge.

20 Most-Anticipated Middle Grade Books Coming Fall 2023

Deephaven by Ethan Aldridge

Amazon | Bookshop | Goodreads

What you need to know: Nev arrives at Deephaven, a boarding school with secrets, determined to keep their head down and fit in until they become embroiled in a quest to save a girl everyone thinks is dead. I’ve read everything published by this author, so I knew I was going to read this one. Looks like it’ll be a series, so I’m anxious to see where it goes.

Published: September 5, 2023 | My Review

The Bravest Warrior in Nefaria by Adi Alsaid

Amazon | Bookshop | Goodreads

What you need to know: Bobert and his friends must find a way to break the spell placed on them by evil wizard Matt before he takes over Nefaria. Silly, offbeat, and packed with heart. I loved this one.

Published: September 5, 2023 | My Review

Finch House by Ciera Burch

Amazon | Bookshop | Goodreads

What you need to know: When Micah becomes trapped in the house her grandfather forbade her to enter, she must confront secrets from her past and make a frightening deal to escape. More eerie than truly scary, this is a great choice for a fall book.

Published: September 5, 2023 | My Review

Learning to Fall by Sally Engelfried

Amazon | Bookshop | Goodreads

What you need to know: After Daphne is forced to live with her dad, she grudgingly offers him a second chance when he begins teaching her skateboarding tricks. Will he let her down again? I love complex family stories like this one, and I’m super excited for a book about skateboarding.

Published: September 5, 2023

Beneath the Swirling Sky by Carolyn Leiloglou

Amazon | Bookshop | Goodreads

What you need to know: Paintings, secrets, and a missing sister send a boy and his cousin on a quest into a painting. Marketed as perfect for fans of the Wingfeather Saga, which includes me!

Published: September 12, 2023 | My Review

Between Monsters and Marvels by Alysa Wishingrad

Amazon | Bookshop | Goodreads

What you need to know: Dare refuses to accept the story she’s told about her father’s death and sets out to prove monsters still exist. A fabulous story about friendship and how to build trust from the author of THE VERDIGRIS PAWN.

Published: September 12, 2023 | My Review

The Otherwoods by Justine Pucella Winans

Amazon | Bookshop | Goodreads

What you need to know: River must face their deepest fears when a monster from the Otherwoods kidnaps their only friend. This one definitely gives off Halloween vibes.

Published: September 12, 2023 | My Review

Tethered to Other Stars by Elisa Stone Leahy

Amazon | Bookshop | Goodreads

What you need to know: A girl who dreams of winning the science fair is faced with a terrible choice when someone she loves is detained by ICE. I love the way the book description links science and Wendy’s fears about her family. Looks like a book that will make you think.

Published: October 3, 2023

White House Clubhouse by Sean O’Brien

Amazon | Bookshop | Goodreads

What you need to know: Two girls whose mother has just been elected President join a secret society of presidential children where they must help the Roosevelt children in order to return to their own time. Written by a former White House staffer. I’m super curious about this one.

Published: October 3, 2023

The Race for the Ruby Turtle by Stephen Bramucci

Amazon | Bookshop | Goodreads

What you need to know: When Jake is sent to his great-aunt’s cabin in remote Oregon woods, he stumbles upon a threat against a turtle with a ruby-colored shell. Features a boy with ADHD and a focus on nature and conservation.

Published: October 3, 2023

The Deadlands: Trapped (The Deadlands #2) by Skye Melki-Wegner

Amazon | Bookshop | Goodreads

What you need to know: Five outcasts from their herds team up to find evidence of an alliance between carrion dinosaurs and save their herds from war. I loved the first book in this series, which I’d describe as LAND BEFORE TIME meets WARRIORS.

Published: October 3, 2023

Like a Charm by Elle McNicoll

Amazon | Bookshop | Goodreads

What you need to know: A neurodivergent teen who can see things no one else can must stop a magical threat to her world. This reminds me a little bit of STONE HEART by Charlie Fletcher, which I loved.

Published: October 10, 2023

Secret of the Reaping (Vanquishers #2) by Kalynn Bayron

Amazon | Bookshop | Goodreads

What you need to know: Now that vampires are back, Boog and her friends want to help fight them in this sequel to the series opener I loved last year.

Published: October 10, 2023

Just a Pinch of Magic by Alechia Dow

Amazon | Bookshop | Goodreads

What you need to know: A girl desperate to save her family’s struggling magical bakery casts a (slightly illegal) spell that backfires. Looks like lots of delicious descriptions of baking and magical hijinks from an author on my auto-read list.

Published: October 10, 2023

Hollowthorn: A Ravenfall Novel by Kalyn Josephson

Amazon | Bookshop | Goodreads

What you need to know: As Hannukah approaches, best friends with magic must stop a demon from Jewish lore who is hunting the Tree of Life. RAVENFALL was one of my favorite books from last year, so this one is a must-read for me.

Published: October 17, 2023

Secrets We Tell the Sea by Martha Riva Palacio Obón, translated by Lourdes Heuer

Amazon | Bookshop | Goodreads

What you need to know: A girl with a powerful connection to the sea moves in with her Abuela and meets a new friend she believes will truly understand her. The book description has a lot of imagery about the sea and ocean life and says Sofia is a mermaid. I can’t tell if that’s literal or metaphorical. In any case, I’m super intrigued.

Published: October 24, 2023

Song of the Swan by Karah Sutton

Amazon | Bookshop | Goodreads

What you need to know: I can’t say it better than the cover copy: “A magical retelling of Swan Lake, featuring a clever orphan, a castle filled with enchanted swans, and a quest to unearth the secrets of the past.” Yes, please!

Published: October 24, 2023

Hidden Truths by Elly Swartz

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What you need to know: An explosion destroys a friendship and leaves a girl injured. Her former best friend won’t stop until he uncovers what truly happened. Looks like a powerful story about friendship and healing.

Published: October 31, 2023

Sail Me Away Home (Show Me a Sign #3) by Ann Clare LeZotte

Amazon | Bookshop | Goodreads

What you need to know: Set in the world of SHOW ME A SIGN and SET ME FREE. Explores the origins of formal Deaf education and complex issues on Martha’s Vineyard between Deaf and Wampanoag communities. I loved SET ME FREE, and I can’t wait for this one.

Published: November 7, 2023

Keeper of the Lost Cities: The Graphic Novel Part 1 by Shannon Messenger

Amazon | Bookshop | Goodreads

What you need to know: The first half of the epic novel adapted into a graphic novel. This looks like it will be really cool.

Published: November 7, 2023

What are your most-anticipated middle grade books coming out this fall?

What amazing middle grade books coming fall 2023 are you most looking forward to reading? Are you planning to read, or have you already read any of the books on my list? What books am I missing that I need to add?

Summer 2023 Backlist Check-in

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Summer 2023 Backlist Reading

One of the things I’ve been frustrated and feeling a bit stuck about is how to share backlist titles that I’ve been reading lately. A lot of my lists feature books from the upcoming season or the season just passed, and I’m never sure what to do to feature backlist books more regularly.

For one thing, I read backlist titles kind of sporadically. And because my review calendar has been so full the last couple of years, sometimes I’ll read a book but not post the review for months. Which means I’m waiting months to talk about some truly incredible books.

At first, I experimented with a weekly wrap-up post. I love the idea of those posts, but the sad truth is that I’m often too busy to keep up with them. I don’t have a good rhythm to a set time to create them yet.

So, meet my newest idea! A Seasonal Backlist Check-in! This will include all the backlist titles I’ve read this past summer (which is actually a little more than I thought). I’m being pretty liberal with my definition of backlist. Basically, if it came out before this summer and I read it too late to include it in my seasonal favorites list for the season it was released, I’ll include it here.

Thanks for checking out the books I read in my summer 2023 backlist reading.

Money Out Loud: All the Financial Stuff No One Taught Us Berna Anat

Amazon | Bookshop | Goodreads

What you need to know: Practical money advice presented in a clear, super fun way. This was a lot of fun to read, actually. A must-read for anyone entering the workforce or still struggling to figure out their finances.

Published: April 25, 2023 | Review to Come

J.R. Silver Writes Her World by Melissa Dassori

Amazon | Bookshop | Goodreads

What you need to know: J.R. discovers the things she writes in her school essays come true, but they have consequences. A story about changing friendships and a budding writer. I loved this one. Perfect for fans of Gillian McDunn.

Published: July 19, 2022 | My Review

Garlic and the Vampire by Bree Paulsen

Amazon | Bookshop | Goodreads

What you need to know: When rumors of a vampire reach Garlic and her friends, they nominate her to deal with him. After all, vampires can’t tolerate garlic, right? Such a cute book! I loved all the veggie characters and the warm conclusion.

Published: September 28, 2021 | Review to Come

The Deadlands: Hunted by Skye Melki-Wegner

Amazon | Bookshop | Goodreads

What you need to know: A group of young dinosaurs exiled from their tribes team up to expose a hidden threat to their former tribes’ survival. This one completely took me by surprise. I loved the characters and the prehistoric adventure. It’s very LAND BEFORE TIME meets WARRIORS.

Published: April 4, 2023 | Review to Come

Brightly Woven by Alexandra Bracken, Leigh Dragoon, and Kit Seaton

Amazon | Bookshop | Goodreads

What you need to know: A wizard and a weaver journey to the capital with information that could stop a war, their enemies following closely behind them. I enjoyed this adaptation of the young adult novel. Now I want to read the original.

Published: September 28, 2021 | Review to Come

Roll for Initiative by Jaime Formato

Amazon | Bookshop | Goodreads

What you need to know: After her brother (and best friend) moves away to college, Riley finds new friends and independence through playing Dungeons and Dragons. This charming story has nuanced relationships and a fun celebration of a beloved game. I loved it!

Published: September 27, 2022 | My Review

House of Salt and Sorrow (Sisters of Salt #1) by Erin A. Craig

Amazon | Bookshop | Goodreads

What you need to know: Annaleigh mourns the loss of another sister as rumors of a curse swell around her family. Desperate to find a marriage match, Annaleigh and her sisters sneak away to dance through the night at ball after ball, leaving their father puzzled at their worn slippers. A haunting, sea-bound retelling of Twelve Dancing Princesses. I enjoyed the romance, though I think I like the second book in this series better.

Published: August 6, 2019 | Review to Come

The Vermilion Emporium by Jamie Pacton

Amazon | Bookshop | Goodreads

What you need to know: Marketed as RADIUM GIRLS meets HOWL’S MOVING CASTLE. I adored this love story and the immersive fantasy world in which it takes place. One of my favorites for the year.

Published: November 22, 2022 | My Review

Sorceline by Sylvia Douyé, Paola Antista, and Tanya Gold

Amazon | Bookshop | Goodreads

What you need to know: Sorceline joins a school on a magical island, learning to identify and help magical animals. A mysterious threat begins turning students to stone, and Sorceline may be the only one who can stop them. I loved the lush, fantastical illustrations in this book.

Published: May 17, 2022 | My Review

Caste: The Origins of Our Discontents by Isabel Wilkerson

Amazon | Bookshop | Goodreads

What you need to know: The author compares the caste system of India to Nazi Germany and slavery and race relations in the United States. It’s definitely the kind of thing you can’t unsee afterward, if that makes sense. Definitely worth reading.

Published: August 4, 2020 | Review to Come

Have you read any of my summer 2023 backlist titles?

Which book sounds like the one you’d enjoy most? Have you read any of the books on my list? Will you be adding any of these titles to your backlist reading list?

Best Young Adult Books I Read From Summer 2023

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At the start of the summer, I had all these grand plans of lists to share and updates to post… and then reality hit like a stack of overdue library books. Don’t get me wrong– I had a great summer, but it was a much busier summer than I predicted. Between family responsibilities, work, and my out-of-control review calendar (Yep, I’m still struggling to say yes to fewer books. It was much easier before I knew so many irresistible books were coming out!), most of my glorious plans went out the window.

Now that school is back in session, I’m ready to catch up a bit on things I missed. One such thing was a most-anticipated summer release post. Obviously, now that summer is done, I’ve read my summer books. The good news is that instead of telling you about books I haven’t read yet that might be amazing, I’m here to talk about the books that lived up to my anticipation. Here are 24 of the best young adult books I read from summer 2023.

Best Young Adult Books I Read From Summer 2023

Andy and the Extroverts by Jessica K. Foster

Amazon | Bookshop | Goodreads

What you need to know: Concerned about Andy’s isolation and refusal to make new friends, her parents force her to attend leadership camp. There, Andy must navigate actual outdoor activities and enthusiastic camp counselors… without her morning coffee. This delivered all the fun summer camp vibes I was looking for.

Published: May 16, 2023 | My Review

Limitless Roads Café by Samantha Picaro

Amazon | Goodreads

What you need to know: When the café where Kinsey works faces permanent closure, she reluctantly teams up with her former best friend and the girl who landed a prized internship in order to plan a fundraiser to keep the café’s doors open. A main character with autism by an author with autism. I loved the commentary on ableism and the centering of multiple characters with disabilities. Great summer job vibes.

Published: May 30, 2023 | My Review

Always Isn’t Forever by J. C. Cervantes

Amazon | Bookshop | Goodreads

What you need to know: After the tragic loss of her perfect boyfriend, Hart, Ruby can’t figure out how to move on. When a cosmic mix-up leaves Hart’s soul trapped inside the body of the school bully, he’s determined to find a way to convince Ruby to give him another chance. The cover copy compared this one to YOU’VE REACHED SAM by Dustin Thao. A sweet second-chance-at-love story.

Published: June 6, 2023 | My Review

Borrow My Heart by Kasie West

Amazon | Bookshop | Goodreads

What you need to know: When Wren overhears a boy being bullied for getting catfished, she decides to pretend to be the girl he was supposed to meet. Fake dating, secrets, summer romance, dogs… what’s not to love in Kasie West’s latest novel?

Published: June 13, 2023 | My Review

Going Bicoastal by Dahlia Adler

Amazon | Bookshop | Goodreads

What you need to know: Torn between spending the summer in NYC with her dad or in LA with her mom, Natalya lives out both lives and summer romances in alternating chapters in the book. A SLIDING DOORS rom-com perfect for a poolside afternoon.

Published: June 13, 2023 | My Review

Something Close to Magic by Emma Mills

Amazon | Bookshop | Goodreads

What you need to know: An overworked baker’s apprentice with an outdated magical skill, a bounty hunter with a perfect memory for details, a troll with zero patience for nonsense, and a prince known for his well-intentioned follies embark on a quest to unmask a plot against the crown. Something about this book gave me THE PRINCESS BRIDE vibes in the best way. My top favorite book of the summer!

Published: June 13, 2023 | My Review

You’re Not Supposed to Die Tonight by Kalynn Bayron

Amazon | Bookshop | Goodreads

What you need to know: At a theme park celebrating slasher films, a true killer strikes, leaving Charity and her friends scrambling to escape before the killer strikes again. Honestly, is there anything Kalynn Bayron can’t write? I ate this one up in one sitting.

Published: June 20, 2023 | My Review

Ode to My First Car by Robin Gow

Amazon | Bookshop | Goodreads

What you need to know: After Claire totals her first car, she feels adrift. In letters to her car, she shares her blossoming feelings for her best friend and her quest for romance and autonomy from her watchful parents. A powerful novel in verse.

Published: June 20, 2023 | My Review

The Shadow Sister by Lily Meade

Amazon | Bookshop | Goodreads

What you need to know: A missing sister returns, but her behavior is… odd. Casey can’t figure out if Sutton is playing a game or truly processing trauma. Unraveling her sister’s secrets takes Casey on a journey into a darkness she may not be ready to face. A brilliant debut on sisterhood, family connections, and power. Another summer favorite for me.

Published: June 27, 2023 | My Review

Monstrous: A Transracial Adoption Story by Sarah Myer

Amazon | Bookshop | Goodreads

What you need to know: A Korean-American girl adopted by white parents faces bullying and racism growing up in a mostly white, rural Maryland town. Evocative illustrations and honest storytelling make this one a must-read.

Published: June 27, 2023 | My Review

Manslaughter Park by Tirzah Price

Amazon | Bookshop | Goodreads

What you need to know: A queer retelling of MANSFIELD PARK by Jane Austen wrapped inside a murder mystery. This is my second read from this series, and it was such a blast to read.

Published: June 27, 2023 | My Review

A Song of Salvation by Alechia Dow

Amazon | Bookshop | Goodreads

What you need to know: A reincarnated god tasked with saving her people, a pilot filling the void of familial rejection with dangerous missions, and a podcast celebrity who’ll do anything to speak truth to power embark on a quest to save the universe from total destruction. Dow’s writing is always immersive, and her stories engaging. This one is no exception!

Published: July 11, 2023 | My Review

Give Me a Sign by Anna Sortino

Amazon | Bookshop | Goodreads

What you need to know: Summer camp for Deaf and blind campers and a sweet romance. I loved getting immersed in Deaf culture and Lilah’s journey of self-acceptance. Perfect summer camp romance vibes.

Published: July 11, 2023 | My Review

A Warning About Swans by R. M. Romero

Amazon | Bookshop | Goodreads

What you need to know: SWAN LAKE meets THE LAST UNICORN by way of the Brothers Grimm. A girl with a cloak that transforms her into a swan who must guide spirits to their resting place. A boy who will use her power to make dreams real. An artist who paints truths no one else can see. A lush, fantastic novel in verse by the author of THE GHOSTS OF ROSE HILL.

Published: July 11, 2023 | My Review

All That’s Left to Say by Emery Lord

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What you need to know: Leave it to Emery Lord to write a book that turned me inside out emotionally and kept me coming back to every page for more. Powerful, raw, and honest. Have your tissues ready.

Published: July 18, 2023 | My Review

Clementine and Danny Save the World (And Each Other) by Livia Blackburne

Amazon | Bookshop | Goodreads

What you need to know: A teen blog writer and a boy trying to save his family’s tea shop. Rivals to lovers romance. This one pretty much had me at “You’ve Got Mail with a YA twist.”

Published: July 18, 2023 | My Review

All Alone with You by Amelia Diane Coombs

Amazon | Bookshop | Goodreads

What you need to know: A grumpy-sunshine/rivals-to-lovers story packed with great lines and a salty mentor character. This was one of the most fun books I read this summer.

Published: July 25, 2023 | My Review

Their Vicious Games by Joelle Wellington

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What you need to know: A girl enters a strange, elite competition that promises to grant the winner the life of her dreams. Creepy, eerie, and filled with rock-solid writing.

Published: July 25, 2023 | My Review

House of Roots and Ruin (Sisters of the Salt #2) by Erin A. Craig

Amazon | Bookshop | Goodreads

What you need to know: The youngest sister from HOUSE OF SALT AND SORROWS leads this perilous journey to an estate tangled with dangerous, disturbing secrets and a slowly blossoming tale of first love. I liked this one better than the first book in the series.

Published: July 25, 2023 | My Review

The Reunion by Kit Frick

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What you need to know: Four teens gather in a family reunion at a Mexican resort. One of them will not make it home afterward. Filled with secrets and lies, this one kept me on my toes until the very last page.

Published: August 29, 2023 | My Review

Guardians of Dawn: Zahra by S. Jae Jones

Amazon | Bookshop | Goodreads

What you need to know: A girl with forbidden magic may be the only one who can stop an outbreak of demon possession among her people. A beautiful East Asia-inspired fantasy landscape with fantastic characters. I loved it!

Published: August 29, 2023 | My Review

Secrets Never Die by Vincent Ralph

Amazon | Bookshop | Goodreads

What you need to know: Five friends with secrets they’re desperate to keep. An unknown person poised to reveal them. Great stakes and tension with characters I enjoyed. A good pick if you’re looking for a Halloween read.

Published: August 29, 2023 | My Review

I Feed Her to the Beast and the Beast Is Me by Jamison Shea

Amazon | Bookshop | Goodreads

What you need to know: Tired of her talent being overlooked, Laure makes a deal with an ancient god of blood– all of her in exchange for the power she needs to rule the Paris ballet. I enjoyed seeing the tense horror elements blended with the high-stakes, high-pressure ballet world. This author is either a former dancer or did their research really well!

Published: August 29, 2023 | My Review

Infinity Particle by Wendy Xu

Amazon | Bookshop | Goodreads

What you need to know: A young inventor joins a colony on Mars working with a pioneering Artificial Intelligence scientist. There, she falls for an AI and begins exploring questions of freedom and autonomy. Breathtaking illustrations and a moving story.

Published: August 29, 2023 | My Review

What Were Your Favorite Young Adult Books of Summer 2023?

So, these are simply the best young adult books I read from summer 2023. What are yours? Did you read any great books over the summer this year? Are there great books I should add to my reading list? Leave a comment and let me know!

10 Best Middle Grade Books I Read From Summer 2023

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This summer definitely did not go as I planned. Looking back, I wonder why I imagined I’d have so much more time to do things like create list posts. Ha! Alas, here I am at the end of summer, and instead of a big list of the middle grade books that looked so great, please enjoy a list of the 10 best middle grade books I read from summer 2023.

10 Best Middle Grade Books I Read From Summer 2023

The Gray by Chris Baron

Amazon | Bookshop | Goodreads

What you need to know: A boy with anxiety forced to spend an unplugged summer with his aunt meets new friends who challenge how he sees himself. This was the first book by Chris Baron that I’ve read, and I can’t wait to read more!

Published: June 13, 2023 | My Review

Greenwild: The World Behind the Door by Pari Thompson

Amazon | Bookshop | Goodreads

What you need to know: A girl portals to another world filled with magic and danger– and a fabulous cat! This could be my favorite book this year.

Published: June 6, 2023 | My Review

The Hunt for the Hollower by Callie C. Miller

Amazon | Bookshop | Goodreads

What you need to know: A girl struggling to control her magic may be the only person who can save her twin brother. Full of fun, magic, friendships, and adventure.

Published: June 13, 2023 | My Review

Maybe There Are Witches by Jude Atwood

Amazon | Bookshop | Goodreads

What you need to know: In a small town with deep history, a girl with a magical diary must stop a great evil bent on destroying the town. Perfect for the Halloween season.

Published: June 13, 2023 | My Review | Author Q&A

Theo Tan and the Iron Fan by Jesse Q. Sutanto

Amazon | Bookshop | Goodreads

What you need to know: A boy and his fox spirit journey to hell and back (literally) for his family. Fun and filled with magic and adventure.

Published: June 27, 2023 | My Review

Brick Dust and Bones by M. R. Fournet

Amazon | Bookshop | Goodreads

What you need to know: A twelve-year-old monster hunter battles evil to bring his mother back from the dead. This one surprised me in the best ways. Powerful storytelling and great characters.

Published: July 18, 2023 | My Review

Kelcie Murphy and the Hunt for the Heart of Danu (Academy for the Unbreakable Arts #2) by Erika Lewis

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What you need to know: Kelcie and her friends race to stop the theft of a magical artifact that protects life in her kingdom. Great for kids interested in a magic school story.

Published: July 25, 2023 | My Review

The Great Texas Dragon Race by Kacy Ritter

Amazon | Bookshop | Goodreads

What you need to know: In a world in which dragons are often enslaved, the daughter of a rancher enters a race in order to save their dragon sanctuary. Fans of SKANDAR AND THE UNICORN THIEF would like this one.

Published: August 1, 2023 | My Review

The Raven Throne (Raven Crown #2) by Stephanie Burgis

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What you need to know: When their sister falls into an enchanted sleep, triplets Giles and Rosalind race to save her. The twisty conclusion to the Raven Crown duology.

Published: August 8, 2023 | My Review

Sorceline 2 by Sylvia Douyé, Paola Antista, and Tanya Gold

Amazon | Bookshop | Goodreads

What you need to know: In an enchanted sleep, Sorceline fights for her life while her classmates unravel the mystery of her origin in hopes of waking her. Beautifully illustrated– a fantastic follow-up to the first book.

Published: August 22, 2023 | My Review

What Were Your Favorite Middle Grade Books of Summer 2023?

Did you read any great books over the summer this year? Are there great books I should add to my reading list? What are your new favorites? Did you read any of the books I listed here? Leave a comment and let me know!

Top Ten Tuesday: Super-Fun Summer Camp Books

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Top Ten Tuesday: Super-Fun Summer Camp Books

It’s Top Ten Tuesday again! This week’s theme is best books for summer, which is a perfect chance to talk about beach reads… but I’m not much of a beach girl? I burn way too easily. So, instead, let’s talk about another favorite summer activity: summer camp!

Whether it’s the story of a first-time camp experience or simply the tale of camp attendance as a means to an end, excellent summer camp books capture the immersive experience of being away from home. They spin stories of unexpected friendships and wacky inside jokes. They remind us to celebrate being in nature and being part of a team or group.

I’ve included six middle-grade books and twelve young adult books in this list, so technically it’s my top eighteen, but I couldn’t help it. They’re all great books that made me feel big summer camp vibes.

Note: Top Ten Tuesday is a weekly meme hosted by Jana at That Artsy Reader Girl in which bloggers share their top ten favorites in the week’s theme. Check out this week’s list of posts about summer reading!

Also: This post contains affiliate links that don’t cost anything for you to use but help support this blog. Thank you for shopping with them!

Super-Fun Summer Camp Books: Middle Grade

Here are six middle-grade books featuring summer camp adventures. From LARPing to twins swapping places to discovering a hidden world of magic, all these books immersed me in summer camp feelings and celebrated the unexpected friendships and adventures that a few weeks away from home inevitably bring.

Monster Camp by Sarah Henning

Amazon | Bookshop | Goodreads | Review

What you need to know: A girl signs up for what she thinks is a LARPing (live-action roleplaying) camp only to discover the other campers are actually monsters. Totally fun. The camp setting makes this a perfect summer read, but the monster elements would make this a good fall/Halloween season read, too.

Release Date: May 9, 2023

Mirror to Mirror by Rajani LaRocca

Amazon | Bookshop | Goodreads | Review

What you need to know: A richly written novel in verse about twin girls who’ve grown apart and dare one another to switch places at summer camp. One twin has undiagnosed anxiety. I loved the relationship between the sisters in this one.

Release Date:

Amari and the Night Brothers (Supernatural Investigations #1) B. B. Alston

Amazon | Bookshop | Goodreads | Review to Come

What you need to know: Men In Black meets Percy Jackson, but better. Amari learns her missing brother was part of a supernatural organization (think FBI plus magic) which she joins after learning it can help her discover what happened to him.

Release Date: January 19, 2021

The Girls of Firefly Cabin by Cynthia Ellingsen

Amazon | Bookshop | Goodreads | Review

What you need to know: Four girls meet for the first time when they’re assigned to Firefly Cabin. Will secrets, competition, and other classic summer camp adventures bind them together as friends or tear their cabin apart? Perfectly captures and celebrates summer camp experiences.

Release Date: May 28, 2019

Chirp by Kate Messner

Amazon | Bookshop | Goodreads | Review

What you need to know: Not all summer camps are sleep-away– here’s one celebrating day camp for a girl whose family has just moved to a new town. Discusses grooming and consent in a clear, age-appropriate way. Great family elements.

Release Date: February 4, 2020

Ways to Grow Love (A Ryan Hart Story) by Renée Watson

Amazon | Bookshop | Goodreads | Review

What you need to know: The second book in the Ryan Hart series. Ryan braves her nerves about summer camp and changing friendships. A perfect blend of the power of resilience, friendship, and summertime fun.

Release Date: April 27, 2021

Super-Fun Summer Camp Books: Young Adult

Julieta and the Romeos by Maria E. Andreu

Amazon | Bookshop | Goodreads | Review

What you need to know: An elite writing summer intensive challenges Julieta to post her writing publicly. A mysterious collaborator begins contributing to the story. She’s determined to figure out which of the three boys she’s maybe interested in could be her online partner. Perfect for fans of Kasie West or Jennifer E. Smith.

Release Date: May 16, 2023

You Don’t Have a Shot by Racquel Marie

Amazon | Bookshop | Goodreads | Review

What you need to know: Soccer camp! Rivals to lovers! A layered story exploring romance, pride, and perfectionism. I loved the relationships between characters, and the descriptions of the soccer practices and games made me feel like I was right there on the sidelines.

Release Date: May 9, 2023

Give Me a Sign by Anna Sortino

Amazon | Bookshop | Goodreads | Review to Come

What you need to know: First love and Deaf pride… at summer camp. A book about embracing identity and finding the friends you didn’t know you needed. This one is at the top of my summer reading list.

Release Date: July 11, 2023

It Looks Like Us by Alison Ames

Amazon | Bookshop | Goodreads | Review

What you need to know: Summer camp… horror! A research trip to Antarctica turns deadly when an unidentified something tries to kill the retreat members. One of the best books I read last year, and I’m not a big horror girl. Check my review for content warnings.

Release Date: September 13, 2022

Long Story Short by Serena Kaylor

Amazon | Bookshop | Goodreads | Review

What you need to know: A homeschooled girl whose parents decide she needs more experience with peers attends the Connecticut Shakespearean Summer Academy in exchange for their permission for her early admission to Oxford. Competitive antics and rivals-to-lovers romance ensue. Great for fans of Lily Anderson.

Release Date: July 26, 2022

When Dimple Met Rishi by Sandhya Menon

Amazon | Bookshop | Goodreads | Review

What you need to know: An intense summer program for aspiring web developers. A suitor in a potential arranged marriage. A girl who couldn’t be less interested in romance. All the fun of Sandhya Menon’s fluffy romance… at summer camp!

Release Date: May 30, 2017

You Have a Match by Emma Lord

Amazon | Bookshop | Goodreads | Review

What you need to know: When a DNA service reveals a younger sister, Abby signs up for summer camp to meet her unknown sibling. Packed with secrets about to burst and an adorable friends-to-lovers romance. My favorite of Emma Lord’s books so far.

Release Date: January 12, 2021

Have a Little Faith in Me by Sonia Hartl

Amazon | Book Depository | Goodreads | Review

What you need to know: Jesus camp… but not from a religious perspective. This one tackles issues concerning consent, celebrates girl friendships, and delivers a simmering summer romance.

Release Date: September 3, 2019

Kisses and Croissants by Anne-Sophie Jouhanneau

Amazon | Bookshop | Goodreads | Review

What you need to know: Ballet camp! In Paris! Plus, a sweet romance and a quest to prove family lore that says her relative sat for a painting by Edgar Degas. Perfect for fans of Jenna Evans Welch.

Release Date: April 6, 2021

No Place Like Here by Christina June

Amazon | Bookshop | Goodreads | Review

What you need to know: A girl desperate to escape from under her controlling father’s thumb. A rustic team-building retreat center in the middle of nowhere. Awkward, cute, and fun.

Release Date: May 21, 2019

Last Summer at Eden by Christina Hergenrader

Amazon | Bookshop | Goodreads | Review

What you need to know: It’s been a while since I’ve read this one, but I remember it being a fun read packed with references to camp songs and the emotional highs and lows of being in close quarters with strangers for weeks. It’s a Christian book and has a faith-positive message.

Release Date: March 1, 2017

The Honeys by Ryan LaSala

Amazon | Bookshop | Goodreads | Review to Come

What you need to know: This is one from my current summer reading list! When his twin sister dies after running all the way home from her summer camp experience, he vows to go to the camp himself and find out what happened to her. Looks creepy and intense. I’m excited about it.

Release Date: August 2, 2022

The Honeys by Ryan LaSala

Amazon | Bookshop | Goodreads | Review to Come

What you need to know: Another one that just came out! A bookish girl forced into summer leadership camp. Girl friendships and an unexpected summer romance that may demand she learn to stand up for herself and, well, lead.

Release Date: May 16, 2023

What are your favorite summer camp stories?

Do you have favorite stories about summer camp? What books feel like summertime to you? Leave a comment and let me know! I would love to chat about them.

10 Incredible Graphic Novels to Read This Year

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10 Incredible Graphic Novels Coming Out in 2023

Graphic novels are a book form that sneaked up on me. I think the first one I read for review here (which blew me away) was ESTRANGED: THE CHANGELING KING by Ethan Aldridge. Once I feasted my eyes on that incredible story, I knew there was no going back. Since then, I’ve built a list of graphic novel writers and artists whose work is too good to be missed. Here are the ones with books coming out this year.

Notably absent is Tim Probert, whose third book in the Lightfall series I’m eagerly anticipating. I haven’t seen any release news on it yet, but I’m hoping it’ll be out in 2024.

10 Amazing Graphic Novels to Read This Year

Moth Keeper by K. O’Neill

Amazon | Bookshop | Goodreads

What You Need to Know: Beautiful, fantasy-filled illustrations. A story of friendship, magic, hope, and community. By the author of the Tea Dragon series.

Published: March 7, 2023 | Ages: 10 to 14.

Serafina and the Black Cloak by Robert Beatty, Michael Moreci, and Braeden Sherrell

Amazon | Bookshop | Goodreads

What You Need to Know: Missing children, a girl secretly living in a mansion basement, a mysterious man in a black cloak only she can stop. The graphic novel version of the bestselling middle-grade adventure.

Published: April 4, 2023 | Ages: 8 to 12.

Work in Progress by Jarrett Lerner

Amazon | Bookshop | Goodreads | My Review

What You Need to Know: A novel-in-verse/graphic novel about body image, shame, and the power of art and friendship. This one made me cry.

Published: May 2, 2023 | Ages: 8 to 12.

Squire & Knight by Scott Chantler

Amazon | Bookshop | Goodreads | My Review

What You Need to Know: I think the author said he pitched this as “T.H. White plays Dungeons and Dragons with Sir Arthur Conan Doyle.” Which is brilliant and pretty accurate! I loved the characters and attention to detail in the panels.

Published: May 9, 2023 | Ages: 8 to 12.

Constellations by Kate Glasheen

Amazon | Bookshop | Goodreads | My Review

What You Need to Know: When a drunken accident lands Claire in rehab, they reluctantly begin to learn about addiction and recovery. A tender, vulnerable journey of identity and acceptance. This is another one that made me cry!

Published: May 23, 2023 | Ages: 14 up.

Monstrous: A Transracial Adoption Story by Sarah Myer

Amazon | Bookshop | Goodreads

What You Need to Know: A Korean-American transracial adoptee uses art and fandom to overcome racist bullying. A memoir graphic novel. A powerful, unforgettable story.

Published: June 27, 2023 | Ages: 14 up.

Infinity Particle by Wendy Xu

Amazon | Bookshop | Goodreads

What You Need to Know: A moving speculative novel exploring the line between AI and human by the author of TIDESONG and co-creator of MOONCAKES.

Published: August 29, 2023 | Ages: 14 up.

Deephaven by Ethan Aldridge

Amazon | Bookshop | Goodreads

What You Need to Know: Words I like about this graphic novel description: gothic middle grade, nonbinary main character, boarding school with secrets. By the author of the ESTRANGED duology and LEGEND OF BRIGHTBLADE, and also my favorite graphic novel author.

Published: September 5, 2023 | Ages: 10 to 14.

Wingborn (Wingbearer #2) by Marjorie Liu and Grace Kum

Amazon | Bookshop | Goodreads

What You Need to Know: The Wingbearer series continues, delivering new adventures of this gorgeous, emotive fantasy. The first book in the series is a favorite in my house.

Published: November 21, 2023 | Ages: 8 to 12.

Heartstopper: Volume Five by Alice Oseman

Amazon | Bookshop | Goodreads

What You Need to Know: The fifth installment of Nick and Charlie’s love story. With Nick heading to university next year, are things about to change? A sweet story of love and friendship.

Published: December 12, 2023 | Ages: 14 up.

What are your favorite graphic novels?

If you are a graphic novel reader, leave a comment telling me about your favorite author. Have you read any of the books on this list? What graphic novels are you most looking forward to this year? Leave a comment and let me know!

Marvelous Middle-Grade Mondays

Check out other blogs posting about middle-grade books today on Marvelous Middle Grade Mondays at Always in the Middle with Greg Pattridge.