Good Earth by Pearl S. Buck

This is a beautiful and matter-of-fact book about China's older past. It shows the wide gap between the rich and poor and how those powerful will be overturned by the poor/weak. You will follow a farmer, Wang Lung, and his resourceful wife, O-Lan, in their struggles with famine, war, and children and family troubles. I would recommend this for history lovers and those trying to connect with Chinese culture.
Sharon L., 8th grade

Son by Lois Lowry

This is a sister book to The Giver. Claire grows up in the community and becomes a birth mother. However, she becomes attached to her only son and goes off on a search to find him. She learns love overcomes all.
Sharon L., 8th grade

Mr. Stink by David Walliams

A girl named Chloe is having a tough time. No friend, a perfect little sister, and weight problems. Worst of all... her mom seems to hate her. However, a tramp named Mr. Stink helped her learn the importance of family and being yourself. I recommend this to anyone.
Sharon L., 8th grade

The Year of the Three Sisters by Andrea Cheng

This is a heartwarming story about two girls, Anna and Andee, as they help their friend, Fan, get to America. Fan is Anna's pen pal who resides in China and is a migrant worker. She dreams of going to America, and her wish comes to Anna. Fan learns the importance of friendship and education and how to balance both. I recommend this for any reader!
Sharon L., 8th grade

Murder House by James Patterson

Two people with dark histories meet to solve a string of crimes committed by a challenging criminal.
Recommended for ages 15 and older
Arnav M., 6th grade

Almanac for Kids by Jacqueline Ball

Explore the past, present, and future of the world and learn more than you need to know by reading this book. You will find this book very interesting. Do you like video games? Do you like to know facts? Read this book because it contains much more information.
Annette W. 6th grade

Big Nate: Game On! by Lincoln Peirce

This is a very funny book. Big Nate explores different sports and learns new things about each sport. Nate goes through basketball, baseball, and soccer. He has to go through these sports with an enemy who steals his true love, Jenny.
Annette W. 6th grade