Middle Grade Books / Middle School Reading

Graphic Novels for Middle Schoolers

Why Graphic Novels for middle schoolers? Graphic novels are incredibly useful and popular for middle schoolers for several reasons. Firstly, the visual storytelling format of graphic novels appeals to the visual literacy of this age group, making complex narratives more accessible and engaging. The combination of illustrations and text not only enhances comprehension but also encourages reluctant readers to dive into stories they might otherwise find intimidating. Additionally, graphic novels cover a wide range of genres and topics, allowing middle schoolers to explore diverse themes and perspectives in a format that feels less daunting than traditional novels. Moreover, the vibrant artwork and dynamic layouts in graphic novels captivate young readers, sparking their imagination and fostering a love for storytelling that can last a lifetime. More & More Libraries Have Special Graphic Novels Sections What are graphic novels? Graphic novels are especially appreciated by reluctant preteen readers. Graphic novels are narrative works that combine illustrations and text to tell a story. Unlike traditional novels, which rely solely on written language, graphic novels for middle schoolers utilize sequential art, speech bubbles, and panels to convey plot, character development, and themes. These visual storytelling elements make graphic novels a unique and dynamic medium, appealing to readers of all ages. Graphic novels encompass a wide range of genres, including fiction, non-fiction, fantasy, science fiction, memoir, and more, making them versatile and accessible to diverse audiences. Whether exploring complex narratives or conveying simple stories, graphic novels offer a rich and immersive reading experience that blends visual and textual elements to engage readers on multiple levels. A Brief History of Graphic Novels The history of graphic novels traces back to the early 20th century, with the roots often credited to works such as Lynd Ward's "Gods' Man" (1929) and Frans Masereel's "Passionate Journey" (1919), which utilized woodcut illustrations to tell wordless narratives. However,…

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March 14, 2024
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More & More Libraries Have Special Graphic Novels Sections
Book Gifts

Cute Valentine’s Day Gifts for Readers

Valentines Gifts for everyone Valentine's Day is the perfect time to spread love and joy to everyone around you, no matter whether they are friends, family members or romantic partners. You've got lots of choices for gifts, ranging from adorable heart-shaped trinkets, personalized mugs with sweet messages, or even a bouquet of flowers to brighten someone's day. Embrace the spirit of love and friendship by exchanging small tokens that show you care. From cozy socks to handmade chocolates, there are endless possibilities for charming gifts that will bring smiles to faces of all ages. But the best Valentine's Day gifts are those chosen specifically to meet the needs and interests of that special person in your life. Let's take a look at Valentine's Day gifts for book lovers. Valentine gifts come in all shapes and sizes. Cute Valentine's Day Gifts for Readers Readers and authors love book gifts for Valentine's Day. Valentine's Day becomes even more enchanting when you consider the magical world of books as gifts. A well-chosen book can be a treasure trove of emotions, adventures, and shared moments. For the readers in your life, think beyond the typical chocolates and flowers. Consider gifting a beautifully illustrated edition of their favorite classic, a personalized bookplate, or a cozy reading nook accessory. How about a literary-themed candle that transports them to the settings of their beloved stories? Dive into the world of bookish gifts, where every page brings a touch of romance. This Valentine's Day, let your love for literature shine through thoughtful and delightful presents that any bookworm will cherish. We'll provide you with some specific book suggestions near the bottom of this post. Funny Valentines Day Gifts for Him Valentine's Day gifts for him doesn't always have to be about serious romance – it's the perfect occasion to inject some humor and laughter into…

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January 8, 2024
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Books make the best Valentine's Day gifts!!
Middle Grade Books / Middle School Reading

Middle School Book Trends

What Are the Current Middle School Book Trends? Keeping up with middle school book trends is essential for middle grades teachers, librarians, parents and authors. When it comes to discovering trending books for middle school students, there are several effective strategies:Online Book Communities: Joining online communities like Goodreads or Bookish can provide insights into popular books. While there, engage with discussions, reviews, and recommendations from fellow readers. We have included some helpful links to online reading resources throughout this post.Book Review Blogs: Explore blogs dedicated to reviewing middle-grade books. Some popular ones include Book Riot's Middle-Grade section, Middle Grade Mafia, and Nerdy Book Club.Social Media Platforms: Utilize platforms like Instagram and Twitter to follow book influencers, authors, and publishers. These platforms often feature trending books and book-related discussions.Librarian Recommendations: Reach out to local librarians who specialize in middle-grade literature. They are often well-versed in current trends and can recommend books suitable for different interests and reading levels.Book Awards: Keep an eye on prestigious book awards for middle-grade literature, such as the Newbery Medal and the Middle-Grade Fiction category of the Goodreads Choice Awards. (Goodreads Awards Category Removal Sparks Outcry)Feel free to explore these resources for the latest reading trends and recommendations for middle school students. You may also want to take a look at our last blog post from December, What Makes a Good Middle Grades Novel? What are middle school students reading these days? Trending Book Genres for Tweens and Teens Which genres are trending in middle school literature? Sometimes choosing the perfect book for each young reader can be difficult. So, here are some trending genres in middle-grade literature, listed from most popular at the top:Fantasy Adventures:Why it's popular: Tweens love escaping into magical worlds filled with fantastical creatures and epic quests. These stories allow them to explore their imagination and embark on thrilling adventures.Mystery…

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January 5, 2024
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What are middle school students reading these days?
Middle Grade Books

What Makes a Good Middle Grades Novel?

Choosing Good Middle Grades Novels What Makes a Good Middle Grades Novel: Understanding the Middle Grades Audience Middle-grade novels serve as a gateway to a world of imagination and exploration for preteens and teens. To create an ideal middle-grade novel, authors must first understand the unique characteristics and interests of their audience. Preteens and teens are navigating the delicate balance between childhood and adolescence, craving stories that resonate with their experiences. Consider incorporating relatable protagonists, age-appropriate themes, and a touch of humor to captivate this discerning audience. Most important of all, remember that all young readers are different. You aren't necessarily looking for what is popular for "all" students, but what particular books resonate with the interests of each student as an individual. It is a tough job, but a very rewarding one. The Right Books Makes All the Difference Essential Elements for Literary Success With Teens & Preteens You'll Find Just the Right Books, If You Know Where and How to Look a. Engaging Characters: The heart of any middle-grade novel lies in its characters. Craft protagonists who face challenges, exhibit growth, and embody the complexities of preteen and teen life. Relatable characters make the narrative more compelling and create a connection with readers.b. Age-Appropriate Themes: Middle-grade novels should address themes that resonate with the target age group. Friendship, self-discovery, and overcoming challenges are perennial favorites. Introduce these themes in a way that is both accessible and thought-provoking, allowing young readers to reflect on their own experiences.c. Pacing and Plot: Maintain a brisk pace to keep the story dynamic and prevent young readers from losing interest. A well-structured plot with twists and turns will keep them eagerly turning the pages. Consider incorporating suspense and mystery elements and don't overlook the powers of spooky and funny. Every student has different tastes and reading abilities. Start by figuring…

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December 24, 2023
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The Right Books Makes All the Difference
Book Publishing / Middle Grade Books / YA Books

Differences Between Middle Grades and YA Literature

What Are the differences between Middle Grades and YA Literature? Middle grades and young adult literature are two distinct categories of literature that cater to different age groups and have their own unique characteristics. Let's take a look at the distinctions between middle grades and YA Literature.Middle grade literature is typically written for readers aged 8-12, although there is some overlap with the age range for young adult literature. Middle grade literature is characterized by its focus on stories and themes that are relevant to children in this age group. The writing style tends to be simpler, and the length of the books is typically shorter than young adult literature.Young adult literature, on the other hand, is written for readers aged 12-18. Young adult literature is characterized by its focus on stories and themes that are relevant to teenagers, including issues related to identity, relationships and personal growth. The writing style tends to be more complex, and the length of the books is typically longer than middle grade literature.In terms of content, middle grade literature often focuses on themes of friendship, family, and coming-of-age, while young adult literature often deals with more complex issues such as mental health, sexuality, and social justice.The key difference between middle grade and young adult literature is the age of the target audience and the themes and writing style that cater to their developmental needs and interests. Discover the Differences Between Middle Grades and YA Literature Characteristics of Middle Grades Literature Finding the Best Books for Middle Grade Students is a Team Effort of Parents, Teachers, Librarians & Students Middle grades literature is distinguishable by more than just the ages of their readership. Some key characteristics to look for in middle grades literature include:Protagonists of similar age: Middle grade literature typically features protagonists who are of similar age to the intended readership,…

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April 18, 2023
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Book Gifts

Good Book Gifts for Pi Day

Fun Books That Make Good Pi Day Gifts Pi Day, celebrated on March 14th (3/14), is a fun and exciting holiday for math enthusiasts all around the world. In case you're unfamiliar with this numerically delicious holiday, a more detailed explanation can be found below. If you're looking for a great gift for someone who loves mathematics, here are some good math book suggestions that would make perfect Pi Day gifts:The Joy of Pi by David Blatner - This book is a delightful exploration of the history, significance, and applications of pi. It's a great choice for anyone who wants to understand the many ways in which pi touches our lives.Math Jokes Gift Book by Ralph Lane - Enjoy this hilarious collection of illustrated math jokes. This book is perfect for all ages from elementary school students to college professors. It makes a great gift for math teachers, math students and math enthusiasts.How to Bake Pi: An Edible Exploration of the Mathematics of Mathematics by Eugenia Cheng - If your gift recipient is a foodie and a math lover, this book is the perfect combination of both. It takes readers on a journey through the world of mathematics using the metaphor of baking.The Number Devil: A Mathematical Adventure by Hans Magnus Enzensberger - This imaginative book is a great choice for younger readers who are interested in math. It follows a young boy as he explores the world of numbers with the help of a mischievous number devil.The Man Who Knew Infinity: A Life of the Genius Ramanujan by Robert Kanigel - This biography tells the story of Srinivasa Ramanujan, a self-taught mathematician from India who made significant contributions to the field of mathematics despite facing many obstacles.Pi: A Biography of the World's Most Mysterious Number by Alfred S. Posamentier and Ingmar Lehmann - This book explores…

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February 24, 2023
Book Gifts

The Best Birthday Presents for Book Lovers

If you're struggling to find the perfect birthday present for a book lover, here are a few suggestions for books that make excellent gifts.

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February 15, 2023