5 Classic School-Age Kids and Tween Book Recommendations

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Are you confused on what books to get your school-age kids or pre-teens? There are several selections that fall into the teen category, but with tween books you may want to take a quick glance to determine whether the themes are too mature for your middle schooler. The classic book might be your safest bet and it is also a way to revisit your childhood favorites along with your son or daughter. Here are 5 classic school-age kids and tween book recommendations to consider: 

Sideways Stories from Wayside School  by Louis Sachar

Quirky, but fun, the adventures of Wayside School will make your children laugh out loud. My tween daughter loved the books so much she decided to breeze through the series. She mentioned that she adored the humor, the fact that the school classrooms were built on top of another (30 stories high) and also liked learning about the memorable characters. 

The Phantom Tollbooth by Norton Juster

For the child who becomes easily bored, this book will help foster imagination. The main character, Milo, doesn’t get excited about many things, until a tollbooth magically appears in his room. When he visits the other side, he is astonished by many places, like the Island of Conclusions and more. 

Matilda by Roald Dahl

Matilda’s popularity is undeniable. The movie and Broadway musical encourages young readers to check out the book too. With her magical powers, Matilda learns to navigate through school, her family and eventually a discovery of unexpected surprises. This book will keep young readers entertained and provide lessons on how to navigate through difficult circumstances. 

Maniac Magee by Jerry Spinelli

Jeffrey Lionel Magee is an orphaned kid from a small town. But don’t underestimate his reach. He uses his “powers” to bond a racially divided town. The story is exciting and will keep younger readers engaged, but there will be segments that are heartbreaking, but also uplifting as well. 

 

Wonder by R.J. Palacio

For those kids who are looking to be comforted because they feel different, Wonder will offer comfort. The character of August Pullman (Auggie) is unforgettable and we learn about perspectives from his mother, his sister and his friends. It’s a book that will not only  make your kids laugh, but they may shed a tear too. Adults will likely find solace in this book too. It may be time to start your parent-kid book club with Wonder

 

You can encourage the fun with reading even more by starting a book club with their friends!

What do you recommend for young readers?