1 Book: 3 Ways
Embedded Files
Read in print, on an ebook, or listen to the audiobook—choose the format that lets you enjoy the story your way.
Realistic Fiction 11+
Hardcopy: U FIC PAL
Wonder (2012) by R. J. Palacio tells the unforgettable story of August "Auggie" Pullman, a boy born with a facial difference who is attending school for the first time. As Auggie navigates friendships, bullying, and the challenges of fitting in, the story is told through multiple perspectives, revealing how kindness, empathy, and courage can transform lives. Heartwarming, funny, and deeply moving, Wonder explores themes of acceptance, compassion, resilience, and the importance of choosing kindness. Since its publication, it has become one of the most beloved and influential middle-grade novels of the twenty-first century.
R. J. Palacio is an American author and graphic designer whose debut novel, Wonder, became an international bestseller and a modern classic. Inspired by a real-life encounter, Palacio wrote the novel to encourage readers to look beyond appearances and treat others with empathy and respect. Wonder has been translated into more than 45 languages, adapted into a successful feature film, and inspired the global "Choose Kind" movement. Through her writing, Palacio reminds readers that small acts of kindness can make an extraordinary difference in the lives of others.
Science Fiction 11+
The Wild Robot (2016) by Peter Brown tells the story of Roz, a robot who unexpectedly finds herself stranded on a remote island after a cargo ship is wrecked. As she learns to survive in the wilderness, Roz gradually earns the trust of the island's animals, adopts an orphaned gosling named Brightbill, and discovers what it truly means to belong. Blending adventure, humor, and heartfelt emotion, the novel explores themes of friendship, empathy, family, and the relationship between technology and nature. Thought-provoking yet accessible, The Wild Robot has become a modern middle-grade classic that appeals to readers of all ages.
The Wild Robot (2016) by Peter Brown tells the story of Roz, a robot who unexpectedly finds herself stranded on a remote island after a cargo ship is wrecked. As she learns to survive in the wilderness, Roz gradually earns the trust of the island's animals, adopts an orphaned gosling named Brightbill, and discovers what it truly means to belong. Blending adventure, humor, and heartfelt emotion, the novel explores themes of friendship, empathy, family, and the relationship between technology and nature. Thought-provoking yet accessible, The Wild Robot has become a modern middle-grade classic that appeals to readers of all ages.
Peter Brown is an award-winning American author and illustrator celebrated for creating imaginative stories that combine striking artwork with memorable characters. Before becoming a full-time author, he worked as an illustrator and animator, and he has since written numerous bestselling picture books and middle-grade novels. His Wild Robot series has received widespread critical acclaim for its thoughtful exploration of nature, identity, kindness, and what it means to be alive. Brown's books have won multiple honors, including a Caldecott Honor, and continue to inspire readers around the world with their warmth, creativity, and timeless themes.
Dystopian Fiction 12+
AudioBook & eBook
Hardcopy: U FIC LOW
The Giver (1993) by Lois Lowry tells the story of Jonas, a twelve-year-old boy living in a seemingly perfect society where there is no pain, conflict, or choice. When Jonas is selected to become the community's new Receiver of Memory, he begins to uncover the hidden truths behind his world's peaceful existence. Guided by the mysterious Giver, Jonas discovers the beauty of love, color, and emotion, while also confronting the cost of a society built on absolute control. Thought-provoking and unforgettable, The Giver explores themes of freedom, individuality, memory, responsibility, and what it truly means to be human. It is widely regarded as one of the greatest dystopian novels ever written for young readers.
The Giver (1993) by Lois Lowry tells the story of Jonas, a twelve-year-old boy living in a seemingly perfect society where there is no pain, conflict, or choice. When Jonas is selected to become the community's new Receiver of Memory, he begins to uncover the hidden truths behind his world's peaceful existence. Guided by the mysterious Giver, Jonas discovers the beauty of love, color, and emotion, while also confronting the cost of a society built on absolute control. Thought-provoking and unforgettable, The Giver explores themes of freedom, individuality, memory, responsibility, and what it truly means to be human. It is widely regarded as one of the greatest dystopian novels ever written for young readers.
Lois Lowry is an award-winning American author whose books have inspired generations of young readers. She has written more than forty novels, many exploring themes of family, identity, courage, and the importance of human connection. Lowry has received the prestigious Newbery Medal twice, first for Number the Stars and later for The Giver. Her Giver Quartet has become a cornerstone of middle-grade and young adult literature, celebrated for its powerful storytelling and enduring exploration of ethical and philosophical questions.
Historical Fiction 12+
Hardcopy: U FIC GRA
Refugee (2017) by Alan Gratz weaves together the stories of three young refugees from different times and places: Josef, fleeing Nazi Germany in 1939; Isabel, escaping political unrest in Cuba in 1994; and Mahmoud, seeking safety from the civil war in Syria in 2015. Although separated by decades, their journeys are united by courage, hope, and the search for a place to call home. Fast-paced and deeply moving, Refugee explores themes of family, resilience, compassion, identity, and the human cost of conflict. It has become one of the most widely read and discussed historical novels for middle school students around the world.
Refugee (2017) by Alan Gratz weaves together the stories of three young refugees from different times and places: Josef, fleeing Nazi Germany in 1939; Isabel, escaping political unrest in Cuba in 1994; and Mahmoud, seeking safety from the civil war in Syria in 2015. Although separated by decades, their journeys are united by courage, hope, and the search for a place to call home. Fast-paced and deeply moving, Refugee explores themes of family, resilience, compassion, identity, and the human cost of conflict. It has become one of the most widely read and discussed historical novels for middle school students around the world.
Alan Gratz is a bestselling American author renowned for writing engaging historical fiction that brings significant moments in history to life for young readers. His novels combine meticulous research with compelling storytelling, helping readers connect emotionally with people and events from the past. Through books such as Refugee, Grenade, Allies, and Ground Zero, Gratz encourages empathy, critical thinking, and a deeper understanding of global history. His work has earned numerous awards and is widely used in schools for its ability to make history both accessible and unforgettable.
Adventure 11+
Hardcopy: U FIC PAU
Hatchet (1987) by Gary Paulsen follows thirteen-year-old Brian Robeson, who finds himself alone in the Canadian wilderness after the small plane carrying him crashes. Armed with only a hatchet given to him by his mother, Brian must learn to find food, build shelter, make fire, and survive against the challenges of nature. As the days pass, he discovers that resilience, determination, and self-belief are his greatest tools. A gripping survival adventure, Hatchet explores themes of perseverance, independence, courage, and the powerful relationship between humans and the natural world. It has become one of the most enduring and widely read middle-grade novels of the last forty years.
Hatchet (1987) by Gary Paulsen follows thirteen-year-old Brian Robeson, who finds himself alone in the Canadian wilderness after the small plane carrying him crashes. Armed with only a hatchet given to him by his mother, Brian must learn to find food, build shelter, make fire, and survive against the challenges of nature. As the days pass, he discovers that resilience, determination, and self-belief are his greatest tools. A gripping survival adventure, Hatchet explores themes of perseverance, independence, courage, and the powerful relationship between humans and the natural world. It has become one of the most enduring and widely read middle-grade novels of the last forty years.
Gary Paulsen (1939–2021) was an award-winning American author best known for his adventure and survival stories for young readers. Drawing on his own experiences as an outdoorsman, dogsled racer, and wilderness enthusiast, Paulsen wrote more than 200 books, many inspired by the challenges and beauty of nature. Hatchet, a Newbery Honor Book, remains his most celebrated work and has become a modern classic, inspiring generations of readers with its unforgettable story of survival, resilience, and personal growth.
Historical Fiction 11+
Hardcopy: U FIC PAR
A Long Walk to Water (2010) by Linda Sue Park tells the powerful true-inspired story of Salva, one of Sudan's "Lost Boys," alongside the fictional story of Nya, a young girl who spends hours each day walking to collect water for her family. Set decades apart, their lives become unexpectedly connected through hope, perseverance, and the life-changing impact of clean water. Told in alternating chapters, this moving novel explores themes of resilience, courage, survival, compassion, and the importance of education and humanitarian action. Both inspiring and unforgettable, A Long Walk to Water has become a modern middle-grade classic read in schools around the world.
A Long Walk to Water (2010) by Linda Sue Park tells the powerful true-inspired story of Salva, one of Sudan's "Lost Boys," alongside the fictional story of Nya, a young girl who spends hours each day walking to collect water for her family. Set decades apart, their lives become unexpectedly connected through hope, perseverance, and the life-changing impact of clean water. Told in alternating chapters, this moving novel explores themes of resilience, courage, survival, compassion, and the importance of education and humanitarian action. Both inspiring and unforgettable, A Long Walk to Water has become a modern middle-grade classic read in schools around the world.
Linda Sue Park is a Newbery Medal-winning American author whose novels introduce young readers to diverse cultures, historical events, and universal human experiences. Born to Korean parents, Park is celebrated for her carefully researched stories that combine compelling characters with powerful themes of courage, empathy, and resilience. A Long Walk to Water was inspired by the real-life story of Salva Dut, whose efforts to bring clean water to communities in South Sudan continue to change lives. Park's books encourage readers to develop a deeper understanding of global issues while celebrating the strength of the human spirit.
Dystopian Fiction 13+
Hardcopy: U FIC COL
The Hunger Games (2008) by Suzanne Collins is set in the nation of Panem, where each year one boy and one girl from each district are forced to compete in a televised fight to the death known as the Hunger Games. When sixteen-year-old Katniss Everdeen volunteers to take her sister's place, she enters an arena where survival depends on courage, intelligence, and difficult choices. Combining heart-pounding action with powerful social commentary, the novel explores themes of sacrifice, inequality, media influence, resilience, and the cost of standing up for what is right. Widely regarded as one of the defining dystopian novels of the twenty-first century, The Hunger Games has captivated millions of readers worldwide.
The Hunger Games (2008) by Suzanne Collins is set in the nation of Panem, where each year one boy and one girl from each district are forced to compete in a televised fight to the death known as the Hunger Games. When sixteen-year-old Katniss Everdeen volunteers to take her sister's place, she enters an arena where survival depends on courage, intelligence, and difficult choices. Combining heart-pounding action with powerful social commentary, the novel explores themes of sacrifice, inequality, media influence, resilience, and the cost of standing up for what is right. Widely regarded as one of the defining dystopian novels of the twenty-first century, The Hunger Games has captivated millions of readers worldwide.
Suzanne Collins is an American bestselling author and screenwriter best known for creating The Hunger Games series. Before becoming a novelist, she wrote for children's television, including programs for Nickelodeon. Collins is celebrated for crafting fast-paced stories that combine unforgettable characters with thought-provoking themes about power, justice, survival, and humanity. The Hunger Games has been translated into more than 50 languages, adapted into a globally successful film series, and has become a modern classic that continues to inspire readers and spark discussion around the world.
Realistic Fiction 11+
Hardcopy: U FIC HUN
Fish in a Tree (2015) by Lynda Mullaly Hunt tells the story of Ally, a bright and creative sixth-grader who has spent years hiding the fact that she cannot read. Misunderstood by classmates and teachers, Ally believes she is "dumb" until a compassionate new teacher recognizes that she has dyslexia. With encouragement, friendship, and growing confidence, Ally discovers her strengths and learns that everyone has unique talents. Heartfelt, inspiring, and deeply relatable, Fish in a Tree explores themes of resilience, empathy, self-acceptance, and the importance of seeing beyond first impressions.
Fish in a Tree (2015) by Lynda Mullaly Hunt tells the story of Ally, a bright and creative sixth-grader who has spent years hiding the fact that she cannot read. Misunderstood by classmates and teachers, Ally believes she is "dumb" until a compassionate new teacher recognizes that she has dyslexia. With encouragement, friendship, and growing confidence, Ally discovers her strengths and learns that everyone has unique talents. Heartfelt, inspiring, and deeply relatable, Fish in a Tree explores themes of resilience, empathy, self-acceptance, and the importance of seeing beyond first impressions.
Lynda Mullaly Hunt is an award-winning American author and former teacher whose novels are celebrated for their authentic portrayals of children facing learning differences and personal challenges. Inspired in part by her own experiences with undiagnosed dyslexia, Hunt writes stories that encourage kindness, perseverance, and confidence. Fish in a Tree has become a modern middle-grade classic, widely recommended by educators and librarians for its powerful message that intelligence comes in many forms and that every child deserves the opportunity to succeed.
Realistic Fiction 11+
Out of My Mind (2010) by Sharon M. Draper introduces us to Melody, an extraordinarily bright girl with cerebral palsy who cannot speak or walk. Despite the world underestimating her, Melody’s mind is filled with words, ideas, and brilliance. When she finally gets the chance to communicate, she must navigate friendship, acceptance, and her own self-worth. Draper’s novel is a moving, powerful story that challenges assumptions and celebrates the power of every voice.
Out of My Mind (2010) by Sharon M. Draper introduces us to Melody, an extraordinarily bright girl with cerebral palsy who cannot speak or walk. Despite the world underestimating her, Melody’s mind is filled with words, ideas, and brilliance. When she finally gets the chance to communicate, she must navigate friendship, acceptance, and her own self-worth. Draper’s novel is a moving, powerful story that challenges assumptions and celebrates the power of every voice.
Sharon M. Draper is an acclaimed American author and educator, best known for her ability to authentically capture the voices and experiences of young people. A former National Teacher of the Year, Draper has won multiple Coretta Scott King Awards, and her books have been embraced by readers around the world. Draper’s work often explores themes of resilience, empathy, and the importance of understanding others.
Realistic Fiction 11+
Hardcopy: U FIC SLO
Counting by 7s (2013) by Holly Goldberg Sloan follows Willow Chance, a gifted twelve-year-old whose extraordinary intelligence is matched only by her unique way of seeing the world. When a tragic accident changes her life forever, Willow must learn to navigate grief, friendship, and an uncertain future. Along the way, she forms unexpected connections with a diverse group of people who help her discover that family can be found in many different places. Heartwarming, humorous, and deeply moving, Counting by 7s explores themes of resilience, belonging, kindness, and the healing power of human connection. It has become one of the most beloved contemporary novels for middle-grade readers.
Counting by 7s (2013) by Holly Goldberg Sloan follows Willow Chance, a gifted twelve-year-old whose extraordinary intelligence is matched only by her unique way of seeing the world. When a tragic accident changes her life forever, Willow must learn to navigate grief, friendship, and an uncertain future. Along the way, she forms unexpected connections with a diverse group of people who help her discover that family can be found in many different places. Heartwarming, humorous, and deeply moving, Counting by 7s explores themes of resilience, belonging, kindness, and the healing power of human connection. It has become one of the most beloved contemporary novels for middle-grade readers.
Holly Goldberg Sloan is an American bestselling author and screenwriter whose novels are celebrated for their unforgettable characters, emotional depth, and gentle humor. Her stories often explore resilience, family, friendship, and finding hope in difficult circumstances. Counting by 7s has received widespread critical acclaim, earning numerous awards and appearing on countless "best books for young readers" lists. Sloan's compassionate storytelling continues to inspire readers around the world, encouraging empathy, optimism, and the belief that even life's greatest challenges can lead to unexpected new beginnings.
Historical Fiction 13+
Hardcopy: U FIC ZUS
The Book Thief (2005) by Markus Zusak is set in Nazi Germany during the Second World War and follows Liesel Meminger, a young girl who discovers the power of words after being taken in by foster parents. As war engulfs her community, Liesel finds comfort in stealing books and sharing their stories with family, friends, and a Jewish man hiding in her basement. Narrated by Death, the novel offers a unique and deeply moving perspective on courage, friendship, loss, and the enduring power of hope. Beautifully written and unforgettable, The Book Thief has become one of the defining contemporary classics for young adult readers.
The Book Thief (2005) by Markus Zusak is set in Nazi Germany during the Second World War and follows Liesel Meminger, a young girl who discovers the power of words after being taken in by foster parents. As war engulfs her community, Liesel finds comfort in stealing books and sharing their stories with family, friends, and a Jewish man hiding in her basement. Narrated by Death, the novel offers a unique and deeply moving perspective on courage, friendship, loss, and the enduring power of hope. Beautifully written and unforgettable, The Book Thief has become one of the defining contemporary classics for young adult readers.
Markus Zusak is an Australian bestselling author whose novels are celebrated for their originality, emotional depth, and lyrical prose. His breakthrough novel, The Book Thief, has been translated into more than 60 languages, sold millions of copies worldwide, and adapted into a major motion picture. Known for exploring themes of humanity, resilience, love, and the transformative power of storytelling, Zusak has inspired readers across generations. The Book Thief is widely regarded as one of the finest historical novels of the twenty-first century and is a favourite in schools and libraries around the world.
Historical Fiction 11+
Hardcopy: U FIC BRA
The War That Saved My Life (2015) by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley tells the unforgettable story of Ada, a ten-year-old girl born with a clubfoot who has spent her entire life locked away by her abusive mother. When the Second World War begins, Ada and her younger brother escape London through the children's evacuation program and find refuge with Susan Smith, a woman who gradually helps Ada discover her own strength and worth. As Ada learns to ride horses, make friends, and trust others, she begins a remarkable journey of healing and self-discovery. Heartfelt and inspiring, this Newbery Honor novel explores themes of resilience, family, courage, belonging, and the life-changing power of kindness.
The War That Saved My Life (2015) by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley tells the unforgettable story of Ada, a ten-year-old girl born with a clubfoot who has spent her entire life locked away by her abusive mother. When the Second World War begins, Ada and her younger brother escape London through the children's evacuation program and find refuge with Susan Smith, a woman who gradually helps Ada discover her own strength and worth. As Ada learns to ride horses, make friends, and trust others, she begins a remarkable journey of healing and self-discovery. Heartfelt and inspiring, this Newbery Honor novel explores themes of resilience, family, courage, belonging, and the life-changing power of kindness.
Kimberly Brubaker Bradley is an award-winning American author best known for her historical fiction for young readers. Through meticulous research and compassionate storytelling, she brings history to life while exploring universal themes of hope, perseverance, and personal growth. The War That Saved My Life received a Newbery Honor and has become one of the most highly acclaimed middle-grade novels of the twenty-first century. Bradley's books are widely praised for their memorable characters, emotional depth, and their ability to help young readers understand both history and the resilience of the human spirit.
Historical Fiction 11+
Esperanza Rising (2000) by Pam Muñoz Ryan follows Esperanza Ortega, a young girl whose privileged life on a Mexican ranch is shattered by tragedy. Forced to flee to California during the Great Depression, Esperanza and her mother must adapt to life as migrant farm workers, facing hardship, prejudice, and uncertainty. Through determination, compassion, and the support of her new community, Esperanza discovers inner strength and learns that true wealth comes from family, hope, and perseverance. Rich in historical detail and emotional depth, Esperanza Rising explores themes of resilience, identity, social justice, and the courage to embrace change. It has become one of the most beloved contemporary historical novels for young readers.
Esperanza Rising (2000) by Pam Muñoz Ryan follows Esperanza Ortega, a young girl whose privileged life on a Mexican ranch is shattered by tragedy. Forced to flee to California during the Great Depression, Esperanza and her mother must adapt to life as migrant farm workers, facing hardship, prejudice, and uncertainty. Through determination, compassion, and the support of her new community, Esperanza discovers inner strength and learns that true wealth comes from family, hope, and perseverance. Rich in historical detail and emotional depth, Esperanza Rising explores themes of resilience, identity, social justice, and the courage to embrace change. It has become one of the most beloved contemporary historical novels for young readers.
Pam Muñoz Ryan is an award-winning American author celebrated for her richly researched historical fiction and memorable storytelling. Drawing inspiration from her own family's history, she writes novels that explore culture, identity, resilience, and the pursuit of hope in the face of adversity. Esperanza Rising has received numerous literary honors, including the Pura Belpré Award, and is widely taught in schools around the world. Ryan's books inspire young readers to appreciate diverse perspectives while demonstrating the power of courage, empathy, and perseverance.
Realistic Fiction 11+
The One and Only Ivan (2012) by Katherine Applegate tells the unforgettable story of Ivan, a silverback gorilla who has spent most of his life living in a shopping mall circus. Content with his routine, Ivan's world changes when a young elephant named Ruby arrives, inspiring him to see life differently and dream of a better future. Narrated with warmth, humor, and compassion, this Newbery Medal-winning novel explores themes of friendship, hope, freedom, kindness, and the importance of standing up for others. Inspired by the true story of a real gorilla, The One and Only Ivan has become one of the most beloved contemporary classics for young readers.
The One and Only Ivan (2012) by Katherine Applegate tells the unforgettable story of Ivan, a silverback gorilla who has spent most of his life living in a shopping mall circus. Content with his routine, Ivan's world changes when a young elephant named Ruby arrives, inspiring him to see life differently and dream of a better future. Narrated with warmth, humor, and compassion, this Newbery Medal-winning novel explores themes of friendship, hope, freedom, kindness, and the importance of standing up for others. Inspired by the true story of a real gorilla, The One and Only Ivan has become one of the most beloved contemporary classics for young readers.
Katherine Applegate is a Newbery Medal-winning American author best known for writing thoughtful and emotionally powerful stories for children and young adults. She has written numerous bestselling novels, including the popular Animorphs series and The One and Only Ivan, which won the 2013 Newbery Medal. Inspired by true stories and real-world issues, Applegate's books encourage readers to develop empathy, compassion, and respect for both people and animals. Her unforgettable characters and heartfelt storytelling have made her one of the most admired voices in contemporary children's literature.
Dystopian Fiction 11+
The City of Ember (2003) by Jeanne DuPrau follows Lina Mayfleet and Doon Harrow, two children living in an underground city where the lights are beginning to fail and supplies are running out. When Lina discovers an ancient message that may hold the secret to escape, she and Doon must work together to uncover the truth about Ember before darkness takes over completely. Suspenseful and thought-provoking, the novel explores themes of courage, curiosity, problem-solving, hope, and the importance of questioning the world around us.
The City of Ember (2003) by Jeanne DuPrau follows Lina Mayfleet and Doon Harrow, two children living in an underground city where the lights are beginning to fail and supplies are running out. When Lina discovers an ancient message that may hold the secret to escape, she and Doon must work together to uncover the truth about Ember before darkness takes over completely. Suspenseful and thought-provoking, the novel explores themes of courage, curiosity, problem-solving, hope, and the importance of questioning the world around us.
Jeanne DuPrau is an American author best known for The City of Ember, the first book in the acclaimed Books of Ember series. Her writing often combines adventure, mystery, and philosophical questions about society, survival, and responsibility. Through accessible storytelling and memorable characters, DuPrau invites young readers to think deeply about leadership, truth, community, and the future. The City of Ember has become a modern middle-grade dystopian classic and remains a favourite in classrooms and libraries.
Science Fiction 11+
Almost Autumn (2016) by Marianne Kaurin is set in Oslo, Norway, in 1942, during the Nazi occupation. Fifteen-year-old Ilse Stern is excited about her first date with her longtime crush, Hermann, but as life becomes increasingly dangerous for Jewish families, she discovers that Hermann is secretly helping people escape across the border to safety. As fear, courage, and impossible choices shape their lives, Ilse must decide what she is willing to risk for those she loves. Beautifully written and deeply moving, Almost Autumn explores themes of friendship, first love, courage, prejudice, and the human cost of war.
Almost Autumn (2016) by Marianne Kaurin is set in Oslo, Norway, in 1942, during the Nazi occupation. Fifteen-year-old Ilse Stern is excited about her first date with her longtime crush, Hermann, but as life becomes increasingly dangerous for Jewish families, she discovers that Hermann is secretly helping people escape across the border to safety. As fear, courage, and impossible choices shape their lives, Ilse must decide what she is willing to risk for those she loves. Beautifully written and deeply moving, Almost Autumn explores themes of friendship, first love, courage, prejudice, and the human cost of war.
Marianne Kaurin is a Norwegian author celebrated for her thoughtful and emotionally resonant novels for young readers. She studied at the Norwegian Institute for Children's Books, and her debut novel, Almost Autumn, won the Norwegian Ministry of Culture's Children's Book Award and was voted Young People's Book of the Year by students across Norway. Kaurin's writing is praised for bringing history to life through authentic characters and compelling storytelling, encouraging readers to reflect on courage, compassion, and the choices ordinary people make in extraordinary times.
Fantasy 12+
Prodigal Tiger (2026) by Samantha Chong follows Caroline Chua, a young woman with magical abilities who is forced to return to her home in Penang, Malaysia, after her older brother mysteriously disappears. As the Hungry Ghost Festival approaches, Caroline uncovers a centuries-old conflict involving vengeful spirits, ancient magic, and her family's duty to protect the island. Blending fast-paced adventure with rich Malaysian folklore, Prodigal Tiger explores themes of family, identity, belonging, courage, and the challenges of reconciling heritage with life in the diaspora. A vibrant fantasy filled with myth, mystery, and unforgettable characters, it celebrates the power of culture and storytelling.
Prodigal Tiger (2026) by Samantha Chong follows Caroline Chua, a young woman with magical abilities who is forced to return to her home in Penang, Malaysia, after her older brother mysteriously disappears. As the Hungry Ghost Festival approaches, Caroline uncovers a centuries-old conflict involving vengeful spirits, ancient magic, and her family's duty to protect the island. Blending fast-paced adventure with rich Malaysian folklore, Prodigal Tiger explores themes of family, identity, belonging, courage, and the challenges of reconciling heritage with life in the diaspora. A vibrant fantasy filled with myth, mystery, and unforgettable characters, it celebrates the power of culture and storytelling.
Samantha Chong is a Malaysian author whose fiction draws deeply on Southeast Asian mythology, multicultural identity, and the experience of living between cultures. Prodigal Tiger, her debut novel, has been praised for its imaginative world-building, compelling heroine, and fresh introduction to Malaysian folklore for young adult readers. Through her storytelling, Chong invites readers to explore themes of home, family, legacy, and belonging while celebrating the rich traditions and myths of Malaysia.
Realistic Fiction 11+
AudioBook and eBook
When You Trap a Tiger (2020) by Tae Keller follows Lily, a shy girl whose life changes when she encounters a magical tiger from her grandmother's Korean folktales. As her beloved grandmother becomes seriously ill, Lily is offered a chance to make a bargain with the tiger that could save her—but only if she is brave enough to face family secrets, grief, and her own fears. Blending Korean folklore with a touching story about love and loss, this Newbery Medal-winning novel explores themes of family, courage, identity, storytelling, and the healing power of hope. Rich in emotion and imagination, When You Trap a Tiger has become a modern classic for middle-grade readers.
When You Trap a Tiger (2020) by Tae Keller follows Lily, a shy girl whose life changes when she encounters a magical tiger from her grandmother's Korean folktales. As her beloved grandmother becomes seriously ill, Lily is offered a chance to make a bargain with the tiger that could save her—but only if she is brave enough to face family secrets, grief, and her own fears. Blending Korean folklore with a touching story about love and loss, this Newbery Medal-winning novel explores themes of family, courage, identity, storytelling, and the healing power of hope. Rich in emotion and imagination, When You Trap a Tiger has become a modern classic for middle-grade readers.
Tae Keller is an award-winning Korean American author whose novels celebrate family, culture, and the power of storytelling. Drawing inspiration from Korean folklore and her own experiences, Keller creates heartfelt stories that explore identity, belonging, resilience, and intergenerational relationships. When You Trap a Tiger received the prestigious Newbery Medal in 2021 and has been widely praised for its lyrical writing, memorable characters, and sensitive exploration of grief and healing. Her work encourages readers to embrace their heritage, cherish family traditions, and discover the strength found in stories.
Realistic Fiction 12+
The Remarkable Journey of Coyote Sunrise (2019) by Dan Gemeinhart follows twelve-year-old Coyote Sunrise, who has spent the last five years traveling across the United States in a converted school bus with her father after a family tragedy changed their lives forever. When Coyote learns that a treasured memory from her past is in danger of being lost, she embarks on a heartfelt cross-country mission to return home—without her father's knowledge. Along the way, the pair meet an unforgettable cast of characters who help them confront grief, embrace hope, and rediscover the meaning of family. Funny, compassionate, and deeply moving, this unforgettable novel explores themes of healing, resilience, friendship, forgiveness, and the importance of holding on to the people and memories that shape us.
The Remarkable Journey of Coyote Sunrise (2019) by Dan Gemeinhart follows twelve-year-old Coyote Sunrise, who has spent the last five years traveling across the United States in a converted school bus with her father after a family tragedy changed their lives forever. When Coyote learns that a treasured memory from her past is in danger of being lost, she embarks on a heartfelt cross-country mission to return home—without her father's knowledge. Along the way, the pair meet an unforgettable cast of characters who help them confront grief, embrace hope, and rediscover the meaning of family. Funny, compassionate, and deeply moving, this unforgettable novel explores themes of healing, resilience, friendship, forgiveness, and the importance of holding on to the people and memories that shape us.
Dan Gemeinhart is an American bestselling author whose middle-grade novels are celebrated for their emotional depth, memorable characters, and uplifting messages of hope and resilience. A former teacher and librarian, Gemeinhart writes stories that combine adventure, humor, and heartfelt emotion while encouraging readers to face life's challenges with courage and kindness. His novels, including The Honest Truth, Scar Island, and The Remarkable Journey of Coyote Sunrise, have received widespread critical acclaim and are beloved by young readers around the world for their warmth, authenticity, and celebration of the human spirit.
Realistic Fiction 11+
AudioBook and eBook
Hello, Universe (2017) by Erin Entrada Kelly brings together the lives of four very different children over the course of a single extraordinary day. Virgil, a quiet and shy boy; Valencia, a deaf girl who loves nature; Kaori, an imaginative self-proclaimed psychic; and Chet, the neighborhood bully, become unexpectedly connected after a series of events leads to a dramatic rescue. Blending humor, heart, and a touch of magic, this Newbery Medal-winning novel explores themes of friendship, courage, identity, empathy, and the importance of finding your voice. Hello, Universe reminds readers that even the smallest actions can change lives in unexpected ways.
Hello, Universe (2017) by Erin Entrada Kelly brings together the lives of four very different children over the course of a single extraordinary day. Virgil, a quiet and shy boy; Valencia, a deaf girl who loves nature; Kaori, an imaginative self-proclaimed psychic; and Chet, the neighborhood bully, become unexpectedly connected after a series of events leads to a dramatic rescue. Blending humor, heart, and a touch of magic, this Newbery Medal-winning novel explores themes of friendship, courage, identity, empathy, and the importance of finding your voice. Hello, Universe reminds readers that even the smallest actions can change lives in unexpected ways.
Erin Entrada Kelly is a Newbery Medal-winning Filipino American author whose novels are celebrated for their warmth, humor, and authentic portrayal of childhood. Drawing on her Filipino heritage and personal experiences, Kelly creates memorable characters who navigate friendship, family, identity, and belonging with honesty and compassion. Her books, including Hello, Universe, You Go First, and The First State of Being, have received widespread critical acclaim for their engaging storytelling and emotional depth. Kelly's work encourages readers to embrace their uniqueness and discover the extraordinary connections that bring people together.
Dystopian Fiction 13+
Hardcopy: U FIC DAS
The Maze Runner (2009) by James Dashner follows Thomas, who wakes up in a mysterious place called the Glade with no memory of his past except his name. Surrounded by a massive maze filled with deadly creatures, Thomas joins a group of teenagers determined to find a way out. As he uncovers clues about the maze and the powerful organization behind it, he must rely on courage, teamwork, and determination to survive. Packed with suspense, mystery, and nonstop action, The Maze Runner explores themes of friendship, leadership, sacrifice, and the search for truth. It has become one of the defining dystopian novels for young adult readers.
The Maze Runner (2009) by James Dashner follows Thomas, who wakes up in a mysterious place called the Glade with no memory of his past except his name. Surrounded by a massive maze filled with deadly creatures, Thomas joins a group of teenagers determined to find a way out. As he uncovers clues about the maze and the powerful organization behind it, he must rely on courage, teamwork, and determination to survive. Packed with suspense, mystery, and nonstop action, The Maze Runner explores themes of friendship, leadership, sacrifice, and the search for truth. It has become one of the defining dystopian novels for young adult readers.
James Dashner is an American bestselling author best known for The Maze Runner series, one of the most successful young adult dystopian franchises of the twenty-first century. His novels combine fast-paced action, gripping mysteries, and thought-provoking questions about science, ethics, and human nature. The Maze Runner became an international bestseller, was translated into dozens of languages, and inspired a highly successful film series. Dashner's compelling storytelling has captivated millions of readers around the world, making him one of the leading voices in contemporary young adult fiction.
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