The 5th Wave by Rick Yancey

Cassie Sullivan is trying to find her brother, Sam. Cassie faces some tough obstacles along the way. Fortunately, she finds a place to stay and has some survival skills. 5th graders and above would be interested in this book. It teaches you to never give up.

Audrey A., 7th Grade

Half Brother by Kenneth Oppel

Ben has to learn to have a chimp as a brother. He learns about family. There are some sad parts but fortunately it is a fantastic book. I would recommend this book to 5th graders and above.

Audrey A., 7th Grade

Orphan Island by Laurel Snyder

Jinny is an orphan on an island where everything is perfect. The trees provide shade, there's plent of food and some nice cabins. The one rule is that there can only be nine orphans on the island. Each year, a boat comes with a baby and takes away the oldest orphan forever. And when Jinny's best friend Deen leaves, she is the new Elder with responsibilities. But she broke some of the curses and things might never be right again. This is for 6th/7th graders who like reading about friendship and love.

Grace L., 8th Grade

Throne of Glass by Sarah J. Maas

This is the first book of an epic series. Celaena Sardothien arrives at the Glass Castle of Adarlan from the salt mines to compete for the role as the king's champion. She will either die or live in this castle. But a dark creature lurks in the ancient castle, killing the competitors off, and Celaena might be the only one able to find out who is trying to destroy them.

This book is for 14+ (contains love scenes) and is rated 10/10 for me!

Grace L., 8th Grade

By the Great Horn Spoon! by Sid Fleischman

This book is about a boy named Jack and a man named Praiseworthy. They go to California to mine for gold. I like it because it shows the life of gold mining. I think people who are learning about the gold rush should read this book.

Sharon C., 7th Grade

Uglies by Scott Westerfeld

Uglies is a book about a girl named Tally. When uglies turn 16, they go through an operation to turn them pretty. Tally's new friend Shay runs away because she doesn't want to become pretty. A positive element of this book is that it is exciting and has an interesting theme. However, it is a bit disturbing as the operation grinds your bones. I would recommend this book to people who enjoy reading about inner conflict and rebellion.

Serin H., 8th Grade

Every Day by David Levithan

Every Day is a novel about a being named "A" who switches bodies every day. One day, he falls in love with the girlfriend of the body he is inhabiting. He keeps trying to find her and meet her again. Some positive elements are that the book's idea is original and shows the experiences of all kinds of people. However, it is ab it confusing as to how A's being works. I would recommend this book to middle schoolers and older.

Serin H., 8th Grade

Echo by Pam Munoz Ryan

What's your favorite thing to play with? Well, these four kids find a magic harmonica. This harmonica has a magic letter on it. It is a red "M". This "M" is very mysterious and nobody knows what it stands for. The harmonica makes music that is fabulous. These kids are all young musicians and the harmonica is the key to everything. They share the harmonica. I recommend this book to everyone.

Ian J., 8th Grade

Three Times Lucky by Sheila Turnage

Mo has a very sad and tired past. Her parents let go of her during a hurricane. Ever since, she tries to find her mother but doesn't succeed, but still hopes to find her. There has been a murder and nobody knows who killed the man. Everybody in the town is very scared, while detectives Joe Star and Mo take the case. Will they solve the whole mystery themselves? This book is for 6th grade and up.

Ian J., 8th Grade

A Long Walk to Water by Linda Sue Park

This book is about one of the lost boys from the Sudan. With other lost boys Salva, travels from one refugee camp to another. Later he lives with a family in New York, then finally back with his own family in the Sudan. I recommend this book for kids in 5th grade and above.

Wendi Z., 7th Grade

Wolf Hollow by Lauren Wolk

This book is about a girl who enjoys bullying other kids, especially Annabelle whose family is pretty rich. Betty causes a lot of trouble and tries to harm Annabelle's brothers. After more trouble is caused, Betty blames Toby, a homeless veteran. This book is filled with adventure and mystery. I recommend this book for kids 10+.

Wendi Z., 7th Grade

The Courage Test by James Preller

William Meriwether Miller, named after the explorers Lewis and Clark, was dragged along on a "quest" along the trail that Lewis and Clark explored. Along the way, William and his dad meet one of his dad's old friends who is part Native American and a 15 year old who is homeless. They help her, encounter a bear, and find out that her mother has cancer. Thankfully, she is better and able to take her home.

Alex N., 7th Grade

Threads by Ami Polonsky

Threads is about two girls that get connected by one letter. This letter is not an ordinary letter but a letter that is pleading for help. Clara finds the letter at the shoe section in a mall named Bellmans. While back in China, Yuming desperately tries to find an escape from the horrible pink factory. Will Yuming ever escape? And if so, will Clara be part of that escape? I liked this book because there are surprises. I didn't like that this book has slavery. I recommend for ages 11+.

Morgan E., 7th Grade

A Crack in the Sea by H.M. Bouwman

The crack in the sea is about a king (the raft king) wanting to solve the overcrowding problem in his nation and to find his mother. But the king can't do this alone. He chooses people with extraordinary gifts. Will these people really help him? I really like this book because it focuses a lot on friendship, family importance, and Magie. The thing I wasn't really a fan of was the beginning because it didn't have anything to pull me in, I had to get to the middle for me not to get bored. I recommend this for ages 10+.

Morgan E., 7th Grade

A Mango-Shaped Space by Wendy Mass

This book is about a girl named Mia. She looks and acts like an ordinary 13 year old but she hides one thing from everyone. It is that when she hears sound or sees letters or names, they make her think of a certain color. She finds out after lots of doctors, it is called synesthesia - the mingling of senses. The point I think the author is trying to prove is that you should always embrace who you are, no matter what anyone says. I think this is an amazing book and everyone should read it. I think it is good for 5-7th graders.

Dana S., 8th Grade

Tuesdays at the Castle by Jessica Day George

This book is about a princess named Celie who lives in a magical castle. The special thing about Castle Glower is that on Tuesdays, new rooms appear and disappear. One day her parents go on a trip and don't return. Celie is truck with her brother and sister while other people try to invade the castle. This book is good for ages 8-12.

Dana S., 8th Grade

Fish in a Tree by Lynda Mullaly Hunt

Ally never seems to do well in school. Her new teacher, Mr. Daniels, tries to teach her to read and write, but she just can't. It turns out she has dyslexia but that won't stop her from trying. Ally confronts a bully, stands up for her best friend, is elected class president, and becomes the person she always wanted to be. Just because Ally struggles, that doesn't stop her, but makes her a stronger person.

Jessica L., 7th Grade

The Girl in the Well is Me by Karen Rivers

I think the theme of the book is perseverance because Kammie makes her way out of the well with the help of some family. The book gives you a sad history of the main character, her feelings, and the tough times she goes through. I think this book is good for 4th grade and up. This book keeps you interested and has many twists and turns.

Maya L., 7th Grade

The Hardy Boys: The Missing Chums by Frank Dixon

One day Joe and Frank's boat is hit. On that same night, a bank is robbed. Also two people disappear from a party. All this happens on the same night. Frank and Joe use different methods to try and solve the mystery.

Annette W., 8th Grade

The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane by Kate DiCamillo

Edward Tulane, an exquisite rabbit doll composed entirely of china, is capable of thought and emotion but seemingly unable to find love within himself. It is only after he gets torn away from his owner Abilene, who loved him dearly, that he feels the initial stirrings of loneliness and longing which is also the beginning of his miraculous journey. Edward is discovered, loved, and diverged with an elderly fisherman and his spouse, a good-natured hobo and his dog, and a perishing girl and her persisting brother. With each separation, his china heart breaks, and with this feeling Edward realizes he is capable of love, and longs for another with whom he can share this feeling.

A beautifully written story with creative elements and balance among characters, this book is recommended for any age seeking a heartfelt story.

Aria A., Grade 8

Circus Mirandus by Cassie Beasly

Micah Tuttle always associated magic with the stories his Grandpa Ephriam narrated of the legendary Circus Mirandus, with its collection of mystical creatures, magical performers, and the figure who he calls the Lightbender - but Micah never suspects they were more than simply tales. Though when Grandpa Ephriam  falls ill and is verging on death, Micah (along with his recent friend, Jenny Mendoza) is enlightened to the impossible notion that the magical Circus Mirandus is real. With this knowledge, Micah ventures on a task to seek the Lightbender (the ultimate performer) who once promised his Grandfather a miracle. Micah needs to ensure, on the hope of his Grandpa Ephriam's life, that the Lightbender will abide by his promise. With heart-strong characters and a profound ending, this book is a heartfelt story recommended for those 9-12 who are drawn to magic in all its wonder.

Aria A., 8th Grade

Short by Holly Goldberg Sloan

Short is not a good word in Julia's world. Julia Marks is a short kid with lots of curiosity and lots of questions. One day her mom encourages Julia to audition to be a munchkin and she regrets it... at first! After, she meets extraordinary people that help her like it a lot. I give this book a 3 out of 10 star rating because I don't like that Julia is very literal. Also, I don't like that she doubted a woman named Mrs. Chang. Besides that, it was pretty good. I recommend it for ages 8+.

Morgan E., 7th Grade

The Fourteenth Goldfish by Jennifer Holm

This book is about a girl named Ellie whose grandfather is a scientist trying to discover the fountain of youth. I would like to recommend this book to people who believe in science and like some drama. The reading level for this book is 4-5th grade. This book is rated 4 stars.

Victoria, 7th Grade

Towers Falling by Jewell Parker Rhodes

This is an amazing book based on a true story about a homeless girl who is learning about the twin towers in class. It talks about the day they fell and has some facts. This book is at a 5th grade reading level. If you like facts and history, you should read this book. I rate it 4 out of 5 stars.

Victoria, 7th Grade

The Mysterious Benedict Society by Trenton Lee Stewart

This book is about a group of extremely smart, bright children who go on a dangerous mission. On this mission, the children encounter many riddles and problems that they have to solve. You can test your knowledge and see how good you are at solving these problems! I would recommend this book to anyone who is in 4th-8th grade and likes giant books!

Sydney M., 9th Grade

The 6 Most Important Decisions You'll Ever Make by Sean Covey

I recommend this book for ages 12+.

The author describes some of the hardest challenges a teenager can face. The book shows how you can make your life better and that it is not too late to turn your life around. Also there are true stories that help teach teens the right path to take. It talks about friend troubles, parent difficulties, school, bad habits and how to fix them, and much more. This book is definitely worth reading.

Kyra N., 8th Grade

The Lifeboat Clique by Kathy Parks

In this book, Denver sneaks out to a Malibu beach party held by none other than her ex-best friend Abigail. Why would she go? Croix (her crush) asked her out! But when a tsunami hits the coast, Denver finds herself surrounded by people she hates, drifting farther from shore. I would recommend this book for ages 11+

Josie L., 8th Grade

The Beginning of Everything by Robyn Schneider

The main idea of this book is about a tragedy and then the aftermath. When Ezra gets into a car accident and shatters his leg, he meets Cassidy Thorpe, who he falls in love with. He then goes on a wild adventure and finds out the truth about Cassidy. Positive elements include comedy and true friendship. I would recommend it for ages 11+.

Josie L., 8th Grade

One Crazy Summer by Rita Williams-Garcia

I recommend this book because the story is very heartfelt and teaches you a lot of helpful lessons like not judging books by their cover. Three girls go from New York City to Oakland, CA to meet their mother after 6 years apart. Let's just say she isn't what they expected. I recommend this book for 11-13 year olds.

Reagan R., 8th Grade

Horton Halfpott, or, the Fiendish Mystery of Smugwick Manor, or, The Loosening of M'Lady Luggertuck's Corset by Tom Angleberger

I recommend this book because it was written in short, engaging chapters that kept me on my toes. The books is filled to the brim with humorous content. I recommend this book to 10-13 year olds.

Reagan R., 8th grade.

Gilded Cage by Vic James

Nobility called Equals rule different parts of the world with skill and magical powers. Luke and his family are going to Kyneston, the home of a powerful Equal family, for slave days. But something goes wrong and Luke is shipped off to Millmoor, a horrible factory town. Luke's sister, Abi, fights to get Luke to Kyneston while falling for a Skilless Equal.

Eliana C., 8th Grade

Three Dark Crowns by Kendare Blake

Three sister queens each have a magical power. Katharine, a poisoner, can consume the deadliest poison without suffering a horrible death. Arsinoe is said to have the naturalist powers of blooming beautiful flowers and summoning the most dangerous animals. As an elemental, Mirabella can control water, fire, wind and earth. To win the crown, the queens must fight to the death.

Eliana C., 8th Grade

The Fairy's Mistake by Gail Carson Levine

The theme of the book is to not get selfish/greedy. When the prince is riding by he sees jewels coming out of Rosella's mouth, he asks to marry her. She says yes and they get married. The prince uses her for his needs and Rosella gets very sick and tired so the fairy that made the jewels comes to help.

I think this book is for grades 3-4th.

Hannah M., 7th Grade

Counting by 7s by Holly Goldberg Sloan

Willow has no friends, no parents, and no siblings. But she is a smart, gifted girl. When her teacher gives the class a test, she gets everything right. But her teacher thinks she's cheating and gets sent to a counselor. There with the counselor, Willow meets new friends, Mai and Quang-ha.

I think the theme of this book is adapting to change by meeting new friends. I recommend this book to 4-6th graders.

Yuzu H., 7th grade

And Then There Were None by Agatha Christie

A trip to a mysterious mansion on an island. Every single day one of the invited strangers is killed by someone. Red herrings keep them confused. The incidents make the strangers suspect each other. The characters and intense story does not let the reader put the book down. I recommend this book to those who like mysteries and age 12+.

Junhyeong P., 8th Grade

The Wolf Wilder by Katherine Rundell

Feo's life is extraordinary. And dangerous. She and he mom train domesticated wolves to take care of themselves in the forests of Russia. She loves working with wolves, especially three that are half-wild and refuse to leave her. But not everybody loves wolves. General Rakov hates them wants to tear Feo's life apart. Feo must learn to trust people, not just wolves, to save her little world.

Recommended for ages 9-14.

Jasmine L., Grade 8

Listen, Slowly by Thanhha Lai

Mai can't wait for summer break from being perfect. But all that her straight A's have gotten her is to Vietnam - a foreign country that she's never been to. Her parents want Mai to learn more about her roots and help her grandmother find out what happened to her grandfather in the Vietnam War. Mai will soon learn that home is not on a map: it's made up of the people she loves.

Recommended for ages 12-15.

Jasmine L., 8th grade

The Real Boy by Anne Ursu

Wizards used to roam the island of Aletheia. There were no troubles for a long time, until something even the Wizards couldn't stop, attacked. The Plague mostly kills everyone and everything. The Wizards sacrificed themselves to save Aletheia. Using their last magic, they had turned into powerful trees that still support the island. What would happen if a greedy someone cut down all the Wizard trees?

This book helps you discover true friendship and is recommended for ages 10-15.

Mihilo K., 7th grade.

Weedflower by Cynthia Kadohata

I recommend this book to those above age 9.

During World War II, many Japanese Americans suffered surviving in the incarceration camps. This book tells a tale about Sumiko, a Japanese American girl and her life before the war and during the war. Although there were times when she wanted to cry, she always pushed those thoughts away by cheering up her little brother, Takao. I admire Sumiko with her good spirit and kind heart, even in these hard times.

Mihilo K., 7th grade.

Momo by Michael Ende

Momo is a girl that has a special ability to listen. By this I mean when troubled people start talking to Momo, their troubles soon vanish, replaced by a feeling that someone finally understood them, and left them smiling with satisfaction. Because of Momo and her ability, her city had no troubles. But there is always a shadow where this is light. The Time Thieves come to the city to steal peoples' time, for these thieves are nothing, just air, without time. Troubles start when Momo encounters one of these thieves. What will she do to save her city and friends?

Written by best-selling author of The Never Ending Story, Momo is a great example of true friendship and adventure. I recommend this book to all of those above age 9.

Mihilo K., 7th grade

Amulet by Kibuishi

When Emily's father dies, she her mom and her brother Navin move to a new house. When the family explores the house, Emily wanders off to find herself in a mysterious room. She looks around the room to find a mysterious amulet and decides to wear it. That night, Emily wakes up to find her amulet is trying to tell her something. "Your family is in danger, stay with them, keep them safe." I recommend this book to 5th-7th graders.

Sydney M., grade 8

Lone Wolf by Kathryn Lasky

Deep within the forests of the beyond, a mother wolf has vanished in fear, sheltering her malformed pup, a malcadh, or cursed one, despite knowing the rigid laws of her kind. The pup with a splayed paw is condemned to perish for him being a vulnerability to the wolf clan; but the infant named Faolan, accomplished the miraculous feat of surviving, rescued by a grizzly bear who nurtures him as his own. Though Faolan, as he ages, is being inexorably revealed the truth of his origins, now struggles with the internal conflict of discovering his true identity and purpose. A lyrical tale of unseverable bonds, of beautiful descriptions and of mystery, author Kathryn Lasky offers a human perspective of the mystique ways of wolves. This book, although recommended for ages 10-14, is suitable for those seeking a profound story.

Aria, grade 7

The 6 Most Important Decisions You'll Ever Make

This book teaches one the 6 most important decisions one will ever make. Sean Covey explains that the book also is just for teens and helps them deal with problems and things in their life. Sean also includes in the book real life experiences from different people so the reader can compare themselves with a different person. Towards the end of the book where there is a part that is called stick to the code. Read it to find out what it is.

Annette, grade 7

Summerlost by Allyson Condie

This book is about a girl who goes to a small town during the summer and meets a boy named Leo. She starts working at a festival and they do tours together. She also learns about a famous actor named Lisette. This book is interesting and catches your attention.

May, grade 6

One for the Murphys by Lynda Mullaly Hunt

Something traumatic happens between Carley's abusive stepdad, her neglectful mom, and Carley. When her stepdad goes to jail and her mom goes to the hospital, Carley is placed in foster care in the Murphy family. Mrs. Murphy is everything Carley ever wanted in a mom. But when her mother recovers and wants to take Carley back, she really wishes there were two of her. One for her mom, and one for the Murphys.

Jessica, Grade 6

Pirates of Underwhere by Bruce Hale

The main idea of this book is to never leave things to the last minute and to be responsible with everything. The book was...GREAT! It was very funny and just couldn't stop reading it! I think this book should be for ages 9-11 because the humor is just too much! I recommend this book to people who like fantasy and adventure books.

Abdiel, 6th grade