On or around the third Monday of the month, I’ll be highlighting recent middle grade reads that I’ve enjoyed. I am so happy working part time in a school library – it’s wonderful to be with kids and books, and my reading life is so much richer! I read the following middle grade books between February 17, 2026 and March 15, 2026. 

And Then, Boom! By Lisa Fipps

A middle grade novel in verse that is on the 26-27 Mark Twain Nominee List for the state of Missouri. Beautifully written and very sad. I had an issue with the ending, but no spoilers here. 

Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry by Mildred D. Taylor

This was a re-read for me and I can’t believe I read such a hard book in 6th grade (which was a long time ago). This was just as powerful as I remember. It’s beautifully written with so much heart and so much pain. I do love the Logan family and especially Cassie.

Impossible Creatures by Katherine Rundell

A lovely fantasy middle grade adventure, perfect for those readers who can’t get enough of the dragons. Took me a minute to settle into the audio.