biography books for 8th grade

35 Biographies that will Inspire your Middle School Student

Your tweens and teens can learn a ton by reading middle school biographies . Don’t let your middle schooler skip over this genre! There are just too many great books to choose from.

Reading about inspiring lives from the past and present allows kids to learn about the world beyond their own experiences. In addition, reading biographies teaches kids about history, science, sports, and so many other topics that may interest them.

Of course finding books that are challenging enough for a middle school reader without being overly challenging in reading level and content can be tough. This list was gathered specificially for the readers who are “stuck in the middle.”

{This post contains affiliate links. Read my full disclosure .}

Middle School Biographies

These middle school biographies will supplement many homeschool curriculums and make easy additions to any reading list for teens and tweens.

As with any booklist, you make the best choices when it comes to appropriate literature for your child to read. I have read many, though not all, of the books on this list. I highly recommend Common Sense Media when you want to know what sort of content might be included in any book.

A Simple Biography Report

Help your student thoughtfully remember facts from these middle school biographies with this free one-page biography report .

This simple report is perfect for your tween or teen to use to record what they learn as they read. It’s an easy (and fun!) way to report their reading. Ask them to share their findings over dinner if they are willing!

35 Biographies for Teens and Tweens

I am Malala

Malala Yousafai

Two of my kids dove into this one in middle school and couldn’t stop talking about it for quite some time. It opened their eyes to horrible situations in other countries and the courage it takes for one person to stand up to injustice.

Publisher’s Description: “Malala Yousafzai was only ten years old when the Taliban took control of her region. They said music was a crime. They said women weren’t allowed to go to the market. They said girls couldn’t go to school.

Raised in a once-peaceful area of Pakistan transformed by terrorism, Malala was taught to stand up for what she believes. So she fought for her right to be educated. And on October 9, 2012, she nearly lost her life for the cause: She was shot point-blank while riding the bus on her way home from school.

No one expected her to survive.”

Amelia Lost: The Life and Disappearance of Amelia Earhart

Candace Fleming

Publisher’s Description: “On May 21, 1937, the most famous female pilot of all time, Amelia Earhart, set out to do the impossible: circumnavigate the globe at its widest point–27,000 miles in all. Just six weeks later, she disappeared over the Pacific Ocean.

Eighty years have passed since that fateful flight; and still, Amelia’s plane has never been found. Discover the thrilling life and tragic end of America’s most famous trailblazing flier with this impeccably researched and masterfully crafted book from acclaimed author Candace Fleming.”

Becoming Emily: The Life of Emily Dickinson

Krystyna Poray Goddu

Publisher’s Description: “In Becoming Emily, young readers will learn how as a child, an adolescent, and well into adulthood, Dickinson was a lively social being with a warm family life. Highly educated for a girl of her era, she actively engaged in both the academic and social aspects of the schools she attended until she was nearly eighteen.

Her family and friends were important to her, and she was a prolific, thoughtful, and witty correspondent who shared many poems with her closest friends and relatives.

This indispensable resource includes photos, full-length poems, letter excerpts, a time line, source notes, and a bibliography to present a vivid portrait of this singular American poet.”

Promise of Change: One Girl’s Story in the Fight for School Equality

Jo Ann Allen Boyce

From Amazon: “In 1956, one year before federal troops escorted the Little Rock 9 into Central High School, fourteen-year-old Jo Ann Allen was one of twelve African-American students who broke the color barrier and integrated Clinton High School in Tennessee.

At first things went smoothly for the Clinton 12, but then outside agitators interfered, pitting the townspeople against one another. Uneasiness turned into anger, and even the Clinton Twelve themselves wondered if the easier thing to do would be to go back to their old school.

Jo Ann–clear-eyed, practical, tolerant, and popular among both black and white students—found herself called on as the spokesperson of the group. But what about just being a regular teen?”

Alexander Hamilton: The Making of America

Teri Kanefield

Publisher’s Description: “The America that Alexander Hamilton knew was largely agricultural and built on slave labor. He envisioned something else: a multi-racial, urbanized, capitalistic America with a strong central government. He believed that such an America would be a land of opportunity for the poor and the newcomers.

But Hamilton’s vision put him at odds with his archrivals who envisioned a pastoral America of small towns, where governments were local, states would control their own destiny, and the federal government would remain small and weak.

The disputes that arose during America’s first decades continued through American history to our present day. Over time, because of the systems Hamilton set up and the ideas he left, his vision won out.

Here is the story that epitomizes the American dream—a poor immigrant who made good in America. In the end, Hamilton rose from poverty through his intelligence and ability, and did more to shape our country than any of his contemporaries.”

The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind (Young Readers Edition)

William Kamkwamba

From Amazon: “When a terrible drought struck William Kamkwamba’s tiny village in Malawi, his family lost all of the season’s crops, leaving them with nothing to eat and nothing to sell. William began to explore science books in his village library, looking for a solution. There, he came up with the idea that would change his family’s life forever: he could build a windmill. Made out of scrap metal and old bicycle parts, William’s windmill brought electricity to his home and helped his family pump the water they needed to farm the land.”

March: Book One

John Lewis and Andrew Aydin

Who can resist a graphic novel biography ? This has been a popular one in our house with all four kids and myself!

From Amazon: “ March is a vivid first-hand account of John Lewis’ lifelong struggle for civil and human rights, meditating in the modern age on the distance traveled since the days of Jim Crow and segregation. Rooted in Lewis’ personal story, it also reflects on the highs and lows of the broader civil rights movement.

Book One spans John Lewis’ youth in rural Alabama, his life-changing meeting with Martin Luther King, Jr., the birth of the Nashville Student Movement, and their battle to tear down segregation through nonviolent lunch counter sit-ins, building to a stunning climax on the steps of City Hall.”

Thurgood Marshall: The Making of America

From the Publisher: “ Thurgood Marshall , the great-grandson of a slave, was born at a time when African Americans were denied equal rights in America. Segregation was legal. Lynching was common. In some places, African Americans were entirely excluded from public life; they were forbidden to enter public parks and museums or use public swimming pools and restrooms. After being denied admission to the University of Maryland Law School because of his race, Marshall enrolled at Howard University. He graduated first in his class and set out as a young lawyer determined to achieve equality for all Americans. Here is the story of how he did it—how he devised his legal strategy for expanding “we the people” to include all people.”

Turning 15 on the Road to Freedom: My Story of the 1965 Selma Voting Rights March

by Lynda Blackmon Lowery

From the Publisher: “As the youngest marcher in the 1965 voting rights march from Selma to Montgomery, Alabama, Lynda Blackmon Lowery proved that young adults can be heroes. Jailed eleven times before her fifteenth birthday, Lowery fought alongside Martin Luther King, Jr. for the rights of African-Americans.

In this memoir, she shows today’s young readers what it means to fight nonviolently (even when the police are using violence, as in the Bloody Sunday protest) and how it felt to be part of changing American history.”

The Plot to Kill Hitler: Dietrich Bonhoeffer: Pastor, Spy, Unlikely Hero

by Patricia McCormick

From Amazon: “It was April 5, 1943, and the Gestapo would arrive any minute. Dietrich Bonhoeffer had been expecting this day for a long time. He had put his papers in order—and left a few notes specifically for Hitler’s men to see. Two SS agents climbed the stairs and told the boyish-looking Bonhoeffer to come with them. He calmly said good-bye to his parents, put his Bible under his arm, and left. Upstairs there was proof, in his own handwriting, that this quiet young minister was part of a conspiracy to kill Adolf Hitler.

This compelling, brilliantly researched account includes the remarkable discovery that Bonhoeffer was one of the first people to provide evidence to the Allies that Jews were being deported to death camps. It takes readers from his privileged early childhood to the studies and travel that would introduce him to peace activists around the world—eventually putting this gentle, scholarly pacifist on a deadly course to assassinate one of the most ruthless dictators in history.”

Gifted Hands, Revised Kids Edition: The Ben Carson Story

by Gregg Lewis

My son read this book as part of his summer reading in middle school and then we watched the movie . He enjoyed both versions of Ben Caron’s story.

Without a doubt, Ben Carson and all of the amazing medical breakthroughs he is able to achieve are very inspiring.

From the Publisher: “When Ben Carson was in school, his classmates called him the class dummy. Many—including Ben himself—doubted that he would ever amount to anything. But his mother never let him quit. She encouraged Ben to do better and reach higher for his dreams, and eventually, he discovered a deep love of learning.

Today this young boy from the inner-city is one of the world’s greatest pediatric neurosurgeons. Through determination and lot of hard work, Ben overcame his many obstacles and is now dedicated to saving the lives of critically ill children around the world.”

>>> Grab Our FREE Book to Movie Discussion Guide <<<

Abraham Lincoln: Making of America

From the Publisher: “Even though he grew up on the frontier without a formal education, Abraham Lincoln (1809–1865) worked his way up in the government. He was elected to the Illinois House of Representatives, then to the US House of Representatives, and then he became the 16th president of the United States.

During his presidency, he led the United States through the Civil War, brought about the emancipation of the enslaved, and strengthened the federal government.”

Child of the Dream (Memoir of 1963)

by Sharon Robinson

From the Publisher: “ In January 1963, Sharon Robinson turns 13 the night before George Wallace declares on national television “segregation now, segregation tomorrow, segregation forever” in his inauguration speech as governor of Alabama. It is the beginning of a year that will change the course of American history.

As the daughter of baseball legend Jackie Robinson, Sharon has opportunities that most people would never dream of experiencing. Her family hosts multiple fundraisers at their home in Connecticut for the work that Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. is doing. Sharon sees her first concert after going backstage at the Apollo Theater. And her whole family attends the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom.

But things don’t always feel easy for Sharon. She is one of the only Black children in her wealthy Connecticut neighborhood. Her older brother, Jackie Robinson Jr., is having a hard time trying to live up to his father’s famous name, causing some rifts in the family. And Sharon feels isolated — struggling to find her role in the civil rights movement that is taking place across the country.

This is the story of how one girl finds her voice in the fight for justice and equality.”

A Long Way from Home

Saroo Brierley

From Amazon: “ At only five years old, Saroo Brierley got lost on a train in India. Unable to read or write or recall the name of his hometown or even his own last name, he survived alone for weeks on the rough streets of Calcutta before ultimately being transferred to an agency and adopted by a couple in Australia.

Despite his gratitude, Brierley always wondered about his origins. Eventually, with the advent of Google Earth, he had the opportunity to look for the needle in a haystack he once called home, and pore over satellite images for landmarks he might recognize or mathematical equations that might further narrow down the labyrinthine map of India. One day, after years of searching, he miraculously found what he was looking for and set off to find his family.”

This one is also a major motion picture, so you can follow up with movie after you read the book!

Life in Motion: An Unlikely Ballerina (Young Reader)

by Misty Copeland

From Amazon: “Determination meets dance in this New York Times bestselling memoir by the history-making ballerina Misty Copeland, recounting the story of her journey to become the first African-American principal ballerina at the prestigious American Ballet Theatre.

When she first placed her hands on the barre at an after-school community center, no one expected the undersized, underprivileged, and anxious thirteen-year-old to become one of America’s most groundbreaking dancers .

A true prodigy, she was attempting in months roles that take most dancers years to master. But when Misty became caught between the control and comfort she found in the world of ballet and the harsh realities of her own life, she had to choose to embrace both her identity and her dreams, and find the courage to be one of a kind.”

Andrew Jackson: The Making of America

From the Publisher: “Born in the Carolina backwoods, Jackson joined the American Revolutionary War at the age of thirteen. After a reckless youth of gunfights, gambling, and general mischief, he rose to national fame as the general who defeated the British in the Battle of New Orleans.

Jackson ran for president as a political outsider, championing the interest of common farmers and frontiersmen. Determined to take down the wealthy, well-educated East Coast “elites,” he pledged to destroy the national bank—which he believed was an engine of corruption serving the interest of bankers and industrialists.

A stanch nationalist, he sought to secure and expand the nation’s borders. Believing that “we the people” included white men only, he protected the practice of slavery and opened new lands for white settlers by pushing the Native people westward.

Jackson, a polarizing figure in his era, ignited a populist movement that remains a powerful force in our national politics.”

Elon Musk and the Quest for a Fantastic Future

by Ashlee Vance

This book remains a favorite biography for middle schoolers in my house. My husband read it out loud to my boys and they absolutely loved it.

From Amazon: “The version for adults has been praised as “riveting” (The Financial Times), “spirited” (The Wall Street Journal), and “masterful” (Vice). Now younger readers can read about this innovative leader who is revolutionizing three industries at once: space, automotive, and energy.”

The Lady is a Spy: Virginia Hall, World War II Hero of the French Resistance

Don Mitchell

From Amazon: “When Hitler invaded Poland, Virginia Hall traveled in Europe. Which was dangerous enough, but as fighting erupted, instead of returning home, she headed to France. In a country divided by freedom and fascism, Virginia was determined to do her part for the Allies.

An ordinary woman from Baltimore, Maryland, she dove into the action, first joining a French ambulance unit and later becoming an undercover agent for both the British Office of Strategic Services and the US Office of Strategic Services. Working as a spy in the intelligence network, she made her way to Vichy, coordinating Resistance movements, assisting in Nazi sabotage, and rescuing downed Allies. She passed in plain sight of the enemy and soon found herself being hunted by the Gestapo.

But Virginia cleverly evaded discovery and death, often through bold feats and escapes. Her covert operations, efforts with the Resistance, and risky work as a wireless telegraph operator greatly contributed to the Allies’ eventual win.”

Franklin D. Roosevelt: The Making of America

From the Publisher: “ When Franklin D. Roosevelt was first elected president in 1933, America was in the throes of the Great Depression—the worst economic crisis in U.S. history—and the world was experiencing a menacing rise in Nazism and other dangerous extremists.

Throughout his four presidential terms, Roosevelt was a steady and inspiring leader. He implemented progressive social reform through his New Deal agenda and helped lift America from economic crisis. He guided America to victory in World War II.

Born into wealth and privilege, Roosevelt entered politics at a young age. His career and world views were shaped by his marriage to Eleanor Roosevelt and his long struggle with polio.

Franklin Delano Roosevelt, our thirty-second president, forever left his mark on our nation and the world. By the time of his death, America had grown to a global economic and military superpower. His New Deal legislation changed the relationship of American citizens to their government. His policies came close to fully realizing Alexander Hamilton’s vision of a government that touches and improves the lives of all citizens.

Facing Frederick: The Life of Frederick Douglass, a Monumental American Man

Tonya Bolden

From Amazon: “Teacher. Self-emancipator. Orator. Author. Man. Frederick Douglass (1818–1895) is one of the most important African-American figures in US history, best known, perhaps, for his own emancipation.

But there is much more to Douglass’s story than his time spent in slavery and his famous autobiography. Delving into his family life and travel abroad, this book captures the whole complicated, and at times perplexing, person that he was.

As a statesman, suffragist, writer, newspaperman, and lover of the arts, Douglass the man, rather than the historical icon, is the focus in Facing Frederick.”

Behind Rebel Lines: The Incredible Story of Emma Edmonds, Civil War Spy

Seymour Reit

From Amazon: “In 1861, when war erupted between the States, President Lincoln made an impassioned plea for volunteers. Determined not to remain on the sidelines, Emma Edmonds cropped her hair, donned men’s clothing, and enlisted in the Union Army.

Posing in turn as a slave, peddler, washerwoman, and fop, Emma became a cunning master of disguise, risking discovery and death at every turn behind Confederate lines.”

Susan B. Anthony: The Making of America

From the Publisher: “Susan B. Anthony was born into a world in which men ruled women. A man could beat his wife, take her earrings, have her committed to an asylum based on his word alone, and take her children away from her. While the young nation was ablaze with the radical notion that people could govern themselves, “people” were understood to be white and male. Women were expected to stay out of public life and debates. As Anthony saw the situation, “Women’s subsistence is in the hands of men, and most arbitrarily and unjustly does he exercise his consequent power.” She imagined a different world—one where women and people of color were treated with the same respect that white men were given. Susan B. Anthony explores her life, from childhood to her public career as a radical abolitionist to her rise to become an international leader in the women’s suffrage movement.”

Becoming Kareem: Growing Up On and Off the Court

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and Raymond Obstfeld

From the Publisher: “At one time, Lew Alcindor was just another kid from New York City with all the usual problems: He struggled with fitting in, with pleasing a strict father, and with overcoming shyness that made him feel socially awkward.

But with a talent for basketball, and an unmatched team of supporters, Lew Alcindor was able to transform and to become Kareem Abdul-Jabbar. “

Never Caught, the Story of Ona Judge: George and Martha Washington’s Courageous Slave Who Dared to Run Away (Young Readers Edition)

Erica Armstrong Dunbar

From Amazon: “In this incredible narrative, Erica Armstrong Dunbar reveals a fascinating and heartbreaking behind-the-scenes look at the Washingtons when they were the First Family—and an in-depth look at their slave, Ona Judge, who dared to escape from one of the nation’s Founding Fathers.”

Freedom Train: The Story of Harriet Tubman

Dorothy Sterling

Publisher’s Description: “Born into slavery, young Harriet Tubman knew only hard work and hunger. Escape seemed impossible – certainly dangerous. Yet Harriet did escape North, by the secret route called the Underground Railroad. Harriet didn’t forget her people. Again and again she risked her life to lead them on the same secret, dangerous journey.”

My Survival: A Girl on Schindler’s List

Joshua M. Greene

From the Publisher: “Rena Finder was only eleven when the Nazis forced her and her family — along with all the other Jewish families — into the ghetto in Krakow, Poland. Rena worked as a slave laborer with scarcely any food and watched as friends and family were sent away.

Then Rena and her mother ended up working for Oskar Schindler, a German businessman who employed Jewish prisoners in his factory and kept them fed and healthy. But Rena’s nightmares were not over. She and her mother were deported to the concentration camp Auschwitz. With great cunning, it was Schindler who set out to help them escape.”

Facing the Lion (Abridged Edition): Memoirs of a Young Girl in Nazi Europe

Simone Arnold Liebster

From the Publisher: “Simone Arnold is an ordinary French schoolgirl—spirited and stubborn. Then the Nazis march in, demanding complete conformity. Friends become enemies. Teachers spout Nazi propaganda. School officials recruit for the Hitler Youth. Simone’s family refuses to heil Hitler as Germany’s savior. They are Jehovah’s Witnesses, and they reject Nazi racism and violence. The Nazi Lion makes them pay the price.”

Reaching for the Moon: The Autobiography of NASA Mathematician Katherine Johnson

Katherine Johnson

From the Publisher: “As a young girl, Katherine Johnson showed an exceptional aptitude for math. In school she quickly skipped ahead several grades and was soon studying complex equations with the support of a professor who saw great promise in her.

But ability and opportunity did not always go hand in hand. As an African American and a girl growing up in an era of brutal racism and sexism, Katherine faced daily challenges.

Still, she lived her life with her father’s words in mind: “You are no better than anyone else, and nobody else is better than you.”

In the early 1950s, Katherine was thrilled to join the organization that would become NASA. She worked on many of NASA’s biggest projects including the Apollo 11 mission that landed the first men on the moon.”

Reach for the Skai: How to Inspire, Empower, and Clapback

Skai Jackson

From the Publisher: “Actress and activist Skai Jackson is a star! Her rise to fame started on the popular Disney Channel shows Bunk’d and Jessie. Her cool sense of style led her to create her own fashion line. And her success has made her a major influencer, with millions of followers on Instagram, who isn’t afraid to stand up for what she believes in.”

The Secret Soldier: Story of Deborah Sampson: The Story of Deborah Sampson

Ann McGovern

From Amazon: “Deborah Sampson wanted to travel and have adventures, but since she had no money, the best way to do that was to join the army. This is the exciting true story of a woman who became a soldier during the American Revolutionary War, by dressing and acting like a man.”

Soul Surfer: A True Story of Faith, Family, and Fighting to Get Back on the Board

Bethany Hamilton

This was a favorite book and story when my girls were in middle school. Bethany was a source of inspiration to them for a long time.

There is also a movie you can watch after you read the book. We did watch the movie, but we had to fast-forward through the shark attack scene because it was too intense for them when they were younger.

From the Publisher: “Soul Surfer is a moving account of Bethany’s life as a young surfer, her recovery after the attack, the adjustments she’s made to her unique surfing style, her unprecedented bid for a top showing in the World Surfing Championships, and, most fundamentally, her belief in God.

It is a story of girl power and spiritual grit that shows the body is no more essential to surfing—perhaps even less so—than the soul.”

The Endless Steppe: Growing Up in Siberia

Esther Hautzig

From the Publisher: “In June 1941, the Rudomin family is arrested by the Russians. They are accused of being capitalists, “enemies of the people.” Forced from their home and friends in Vilna, Poland, they are herded into crowded cattle cars. Their destination: the endless steppe of Siberia.

For five years, Esther and her family lived in exile, weeding potato fields, working in the mines, and struggling to stay alive. But in the middle of hardship and oppression, the strength of their small family sustains them and gives them hope for the future.”

Chasing Space (Young Readers’ Edition)

Leland Melvin

From the Publisher: “When the former Detroit Lion’s football career was cut short by an injury, Leland didn’t waste time mourning his broken dream. Instead, he found a new one—something that was completely out of this world.

He joined NASA, braved an injury that nearly left him permanently deaf, and still managed to muster the courage and resolve to travel to space on the shuttle Atlantis to help build the International Space Station. Leland’s problem-solving methods and can-do attitude turned his impossible-seeming dream into reality.”

The Notorious Benedict Arnold

Steve Sheinkin

From the Publisher: “Most people know that Benedict Arnold was America’s first, most notorious traitor. Few know that he was also one of its greatest Revolutionary War heroes. Steve Sheinkin’s accessible biography, The Notorious Benedict Arnold, introduces young readers to the real Arnold: reckless, heroic, and driven. Packed with first-person accounts, astonishing American Revolution battle scenes, and surprising twists, this is a gripping and true adventure tale from history.”

Ten Days a Madwoman: The Daring Life and Turbulent Times of Nellie Bly

Deborah Noyes

From the Publisher: “Young Nellie Bly had ambitious goals, especially for a woman at the end of the nineteenth century, when the few female journalists were relegated to writing columns about cleaning or fashion.

But fresh off a train from Pittsburgh, Nellie knew she was destined for more and pulled a major journalistic stunt that skyrocketed her to fame: feigning insanity, being committed to the notorious asylum on Blackwell’s Island, and writing a shocking exposé of the clinic’s horrific treatment of its patients.   Nellie Bly became a household name and raised awareness of political corruption, poverty, and abuses of human rights. Leading an uncommonly full life, Nellie circled the globe in a record seventy-two days and brought home a pet monkey before marrying an aged millionaire and running his company after his death.”

More Books for Middle Schoolers:

If your student is interested in graphic novels (a very popular option) then these graphic novels for middle schoolers are great options.

Our middle school book club enjoyed these 8 titles this year . They were fantastic reads for great discussions!

While these winter themed books for middle school are great in the winter, they can easily be enjoyed at any time of year.

Don’t forget your FREE one-page biography report:

Additional Biography for Kids Books:

Biography picture books your kids will love.

• Latest Posts

• Homeschooling An Only Child: Everything You Need To Know! - June 18, 2024
• How to Support a Teen Slow Reader - April 25, 2024
• Manatee Summer Discussion Questions and Book Review - April 15, 2024

Similar Posts

Over 30 Graphic Novels Your Elementary Schooler Will Love

Save or Share: This collection of graphic novels for elementary school children is the perfect way to find a title that will engage your youngest readers. But don’t be surprised when older children find themselves immersed in these titles as well. And while an engaging graphic novel is a great way to encourage a reluctant…

How to Find the Best Books Online and Save Money

Save or Share: Are you ready to get your eyes on a ton of books easily accessable online? Many that are FREE for you to read or listen to?  With several readers in the house, I need access to free (and cheap) books from sources other than the library.  And thankfully, there are plenty of…

92 Fantastic Graphic Novels Your Middle Schooler Will Love

Save or Share:This collection of graphic novels for middle school contains a variety of titles so you can find the perfect one for your child. But don’t be surprised if you find yourself immersed in these titles as well. While an engaging graphic novel can draw in a reluctant reader, don’t limit these delightful, visual…

30 of the Best Fiction Books for Middle School

Save or Share:Fiction books for middle schoolers make fantastic choices for teaching literary elements to tweens. Teaching literature in middle school is something that I love and do online through Outschool. One of my favorite parts about this job is reading and selecting books each year for my middle school book club. I like to…

A February Reading Challenge for the Whole Family

Save or Share:Is your family ready to dive into reading this month with a February reading challenge? I hope you’ll join my family and break out of your reading ruts and have a little fun along the way. The February reading challenge is part of our Year-Long Reading Challenge for Families. The concept is simple – read up…

Long Distance Graphic Novel Questions for Homeschool Study

Save or Share:Long Distance by Whitney Gardner is a fun science fiction graphic novel with a great plot twist. In addition, it addresses the loneliness of moving and how hard it can be to make new friends. It’s a great read for tweens which is why I chose Long Distance for my kid’s graphic novel…

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Middle School Biography Books That Will Inspire Tweens

Tweens can learn a lot by reading middle school biography books . When you think about the best books for middle grade students, this genre should definitely be on every homeschooler’s reading list.

Biographies give kids the chance to learn about the lives of extraordinary people. Their stories are interesting and informative and without a doubt will inspire and challenge your tweens and teens. 

That is to say, this book style lets readers see life from another person’s perspective. It helps them appreciate different cultures, beliefs, and values.

Reading middle grade biographies will certainly broaden your child’s horizons!

If your kids are hesitant to read biographies, it’s important to realize that the people in these books have important stories to tell. Particularly, about their daily life, something amazing they’ve accomplished, or challenges they’ve overcome. 

Table of Contents

What is a biography?

In short, a biography is a type of book that tells the true story of an individual’s life that’s written by someone else.

It’s slightly different from an autobiography or a memoir. An autobiography is a person’s story written by themselves and a memoir is a collection of stories (or memories) told in their own words.

One of the best things about the biography genre is that it gives readers a glimpse into the lives of prominent contemporary and historical people.

It typically focuses on someone’s achievements and experiences, and in addition, often includes personal things like family relationships, health issues, and character traits.

Why Should Middle Schoolers Read Biographies?

Biographies are an important part of any reading plan, but especially so for tweens. Middle school is the stage when kids are trying to figure out who they are and where they fit into the world. That is to say, they need role models.

This genre gives tweens the chance to study the achievements of well-known people, their various attributes, and the obstacles they overcame to reach their goals.

Biography books are motivating and can be a source of inspiration for middle schoolers who are in the process of finding themselves. As they read these impactful stories, they’ll discover each person has something special within them and that it’s possible to use those qualities to affect the world around them.

What are the Benefits of Reading Biographies?

There are many benefits to kids reading biography books, including:

• opening up different worlds to kids by sharing the lives of influential men and women
• conveying the context within which history happened
• encouraging young readers to think critically about current events and inspiring them to become more engaged citizens
• teaching tweens empathy
• increasing vocabulary and comprehension skills

Choosing a Biography

One thing I love about biographies is that there are so many to choose from. On the other hand, this can also make it difficult to pick titles for your kids to read.

It might help to sit down with your tween and make a list of individuals they would like to learn more about. In this case, having a list of specific people they want to get to know better will help you narrow down your search.

Biography Report Form

To help direct their learning, encourage your tween to use this biography report template .

It’s a wonderful tool that will help them dive deeper into the life of an extraordinary person and learn how to organize research material.

Middle School Biography Books

A biography is the perfect type of book for inquisitive kids. The stories are motivating, engaging, and entertaining and may even help middle schoolers discover their own unique strengths.

Also, they’re some of the best nonfiction books for homeschoolers and should be essential reading in subject areas like language arts, science, and history.

Here are some of our favorite stories that are perfect for kids in 6th grade, 7th grade, and 8th grade. Some of them even highlight young people. Those who are stepping up to make a difference, taking action right now to improve the lives of themselves and those around them.

All of these stories are important, inspirational, and fascinating and should be read by all middle grade students.

Please note that this is not an exhaustive list. There are thousands of stories to choose from, so there’s no way to include them all here.

Any links in this post may be affiliate links. See my disclosure statement .

Biographies for Middle Schoolers

These middle school biography books are all stories of people who have done important things and made a difference. They're a great way to learn about what their lives were like and how they broke through barriers and persevered.

Encourage your tween to apply the lessons they learn in their own life.

Who Is Greta Thunberg?

Learn about this impressive Swedish teen that's challenging the world to think differently about climate change and our role in saving the environment.

Asian American Women in Science

Introduce your tweens to 15 Asian American women who are pioneers in science.

The Notorious Benedict Arnold: A True Story of Adventure, Heroism & Treachery

Sure, we all know he was a traitor, but do you know the full story of Benedict Arnold?

Changing the Game: Asian Pacific American Female Athletes

Kids will love these short stories of 17 famous Asian Pacific American women who changed the game and excelled in their sport.

Samurai Rising: The Epic Life of Minamoto Yoshitsune

Introduce your tweens to one of the most important samurai in the history of Japan.

Ten Days a Madwoman: The Daring Life and Turbulent Times of the Original "Girl" Reporter, Nellie Bly

Journalist Nellie Bly had herself institutionalized in order to expose the poor treatment of the patients housed inside the well-known asylum on Blackwell's Island. Readers will learn about her life and writing career.

Home of the Brave: 15 Immigrants Who Shaped U.S. History

Read about the lives of 15 extraordinary people who came to America and used their gifts, talents, and intellect to shape their world and history.

John Muir: Young Naturalist

If your family enjoys exploring nature, this book is a must-read.

Discover why even as a young boy John Muir was so passionate about the natural world and how his early childhood led him to fight for the preservation of acres of beautiful wilderness and create the Sierra Club.

Man Called Horse: John Horse and the Black Seminole Underground Railroad

This book will introduce teens to the life John Horse, a Black Seminole leader, diplomat, and heroic warrior.

He spent his life fighting for the freedom and survival of his people against the government, rival tribes, and slave hunters.

Who Was Frida Kahlo?

Learn about the life story of this famous painter whose artwork is instantly recognizable thanks to the artist herself.

Leaders and Thinkers in American History: 15 Influential People You Should Know

This book will introduce tweens to 15 influential people throughout American history.

Trailblazers: Jackie Robinson: Breaking Barriers in Baseball

Learn about how Jackie Robinson changed the game of baseball.

Good Night Stories for Rebel Girls: 100 Inspiring Young Changemakers

This book will introduce you to 100 stories of young women who are working hard to create a better future and world.

Serena Williams

Learn about the obstacles Serena Williams overcame from a young age to become the world's best tennis player.

Who Was Annie Oakley?

Annie Oakley was a trailblazer who pushed aside all the cultural norms of her day. As a famous sharpshooter, she traveled all over the world with the renowned Buffalo Bill show during the wild west time period.

Lincoln's Spymaster: Allan Pinkerton, America's First Private Eye

Allan Pinkerton was America's first private eye who worked with his undercover team to catch all kinds of outlaws. President Lincoln funded his network, which ushered in the Secret Service.

Dian Fossey: Animal Rights Activist and Protector of Mountain Gorillas

If your tweens love animals, they need to know the story of Dian Fossey. She spent years studying, protecting, and fighting for the mountain gorillas in Africa.

Trailblazers: Martin Luther King, Jr.: Fighting for Civil Rights

No biography reading list would be complete without the story of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and his role fighting for social justice and the civil rights movement.

16th Century Superstar: Da Vinci

This book will show tweens how much Da Vinci's projects, artwork, and inventions changed the world.

Native Americans in History

In this book, older kids will read about 15 influential Native Americans and their important accomplishments.

Lin-Manuel Miranda: Revolutionary Playwright, Composer, and Actor

If your family is a fan of the musical Hamilton, you'll want to read this story about Lin-Manuel Miranda and how he has influenced the arts.

Who Was Ruth Bader Ginsburg?

Before and after taking her seat on the Supreme Court, Ruth Bader Ginsburg fought for gender equality and women's rights. She was the first woman of Jewish faith to sit on the court.

Rising Above: How 11 Athletes Overcame Challenges in Their Youth to Become Stars

Sports-loving tweens will enjoy reading about the trials and achievements of these 11 famous athletes.

Isaac Newton: The Scientist Who Changed Everything

Older kids will enjoy reading about the life and work of Isaac Newton, one of the most important scientists throughout history. His theories led to big changes in various fields.

DK Life Stories: Katherine Johnson

Katherine Johnson was a NASA mathematician who was instrumental in putting a man on the moon. A true trailblazer, she overcame many obstacles before being a part of the Apollo space program.

As I have shown, there are a ton of different types of middle school biographies out there, however, it’s easy to choose an excellent one to read. If your tween is struggling with one, pick a different style. They vary widely and you want to find something that grabs and keeps your child’s attention.

Don’t forget to grab your biography book report form !

More Books for Middle Schoolers

Looking for more book lists for your tweens and teens? Check these out.

• Classic Books
• Personal Growth Books
• Newbery Award Winning Books
• Amazing Animal Books
• Adventure Books for Middle School

If your kids struggle with reading, consider switching over to audiobooks . They’re a lifesaver for some families, including those who love read aloud time.

Kids can listen on their devices, like a Kindle Fire . Of course, you can also play books in the car as you travel.

Which one of these middle school biography books is your tween most excited to read?

• Latest Posts

Megan Zechman

@edupossible, latest posts by megan zechman ( see all ).

• Easy Pumpkin Crafts - August 21, 2023
• Middle School Geography Curriculum - August 11, 2023
• Outdoor Geography Activities - August 4, 2023

• Education & Teaching
• Schools & Teaching

Sorry, there was a problem.

Download the free Kindle app and start reading Kindle books instantly on your smartphone, tablet, or computer - no Kindle device required .

Read instantly on your browser with Kindle for Web.

Using your mobile phone camera - scan the code below and download the Kindle app.

Image Unavailable

• To view this video download Flash Player

Biographies for Eighth Grade: Twenty Remarkable Men and Women Paperback – December 3, 2020

• Print length 148 pages
• Language English
• Publication date December 3, 2020
• Dimensions 5 x 0.34 x 8 inches
• ISBN-10 1943582505
• ISBN-13 978-1943582501
• See all details

Product details

• Publisher ‏ : ‎ Waldorf Publications (December 3, 2020)
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
• Paperback ‏ : ‎ 148 pages
• ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 1943582505
• ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1943582501
• Item Weight ‏ : ‎ 2.31 pounds
• Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 5 x 0.34 x 8 inches
• #4,348 in History of Education
• #5,357 in Children's American History

Customer reviews

• 5 star 4 star 3 star 2 star 1 star 5 star 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0%
• 5 star 4 star 3 star 2 star 1 star 4 star 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0%
• 5 star 4 star 3 star 2 star 1 star 3 star 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0%
• 5 star 4 star 3 star 2 star 1 star 2 star 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0%
• 5 star 4 star 3 star 2 star 1 star 1 star 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0%

Customer Reviews, including Product Star Ratings help customers to learn more about the product and decide whether it is the right product for them.

To calculate the overall star rating and percentage breakdown by star, we don’t use a simple average. Instead, our system considers things like how recent a review is and if the reviewer bought the item on Amazon. It also analyzed reviews to verify trustworthiness.

No customer reviews

• About Amazon
• Investor Relations
• Amazon Devices
• Amazon Science
• Sell products on Amazon
• Sell on Amazon Business
• Sell apps on Amazon
• Become an Affiliate
• Advertise Your Products
• Self-Publish with Us
• Host an Amazon Hub
• › See More Make Money with Us
• Amazon Business Card
• Shop with Points
• Reload Your Balance
• Amazon Currency Converter
• Amazon and COVID-19
• Your Account
• Your Orders
• Shipping Rates & Policies
• Returns & Replacements
• Manage Your Content and Devices

• Conditions of Use
• Privacy Notice
• Consumer Health Data Privacy Disclosure
• Your Ads Privacy Choices

• Books for 1-Year-Olds
• Books for 2-Year-Olds
• Books for 3-Year-Olds
• Books for 4-Year-Olds
• Books for 5-Year-Olds
• Books for 6-Year-Olds
• Books for 7-Year-Olds
• Books for 8-Year-Olds
• Books for 9-Year-Olds
• Books for 10-Year-Olds
• Books for 11-Year-Olds
• Books for 12-Year-Olds
• Books for 13-Year-Olds
• Preschool Books
• Kindergarten Books
• Books for 1st Grade
• Books for 2nd Grade
• Books for 3rd Grade
• Books for 4th Grade
• Books for 5th Grade
• Books for 6th Grade
• Books for 7th Grade
• Books for 8th Grade
• Books for 9th Grade
• Early Picture Books
• Picture Books
• Read Aloud Chapter Books
• Easy Reader Books
• Early Chapter Books
• Chapter Books
• Young Adult Books
• Autobiography / Biography
• Children's Poetry
• Fables / Fairy Tales
• Fantasy / Folklore
• Legends / Myths

The Best Autobiography & Biography Books for Kids

As kids begin to understand the larger world around them, there’s nothing more expansive than learning about the lives of others. So it’s no wonder biographies are a hit with curious young readers. Learning about amazing people who shaped the world through bravery and dedication isn’t just a way to inspire your child’s own dreams—it’s a path to building stronger empathy and relationships. 

That’s why we’ve created this list of the best biographies for kids of all ages and reading levels, from preschool to middle school. Featuring stories of dreamers and doers from all walks of life, these books will have your reader thinking big about their boundless potential!

Mahatma Gandhi: My First Mahatma Gandhi (Little People, Big Dreams)

By Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara

This picture book is a gentle introduction for babies and toddlers to the teachings of Mahatma Gandhi. The charmingly illustrated tale tells the story of young Mohandas and his upbringing in India under British rule. All the while, Mohandas dreamed of a world where all living beings were treated with kindness—and dared to chase it into reality. Your toddler or preschool reader will light up as they learn from Gandhi about nonviolence, peace, and unwavering kindness.

David Bowie (Little People, Big Dreams)

This one’s for all the diaper-dancers and future rockstars. Even the youngest baby learners will be inspired by the one-of-a-kind Starman and his message of fearless individuality. Young David Jones may have looked like an ordinary boy on the outside, but on the inside, he was full of dreams, music, and creativity. Show your child that gigantic dreams are as close as the karaoke microphone in this motivational depiction of David Bowie’s story. The board book format is sturdy enough for little readers to thumb through on their own—and with the bold, bright illustrations, they’ll want to!

Where’s Jane?

By Jaye Garnett

If your growing reader is a naturalist-in-training, this wonderfully engaging board book is just what the biologist ordered. Designed for children ages 3 to 5, this board book is a lighthearted introduction to Jane Goodall’s fascinating chimpanzee research. Your reader will be so busy searching for hidden pictures in the illustrations that they won’t realize they’re learning facts well beyond their science curriculum. Vocabulary words and questions on every page also help encourage discussion and develop more advanced communication skills.

Dinosaur Lady: The Daring Discoveries of Mary Anning, the First Paleontologist

By Linda Skeers

Got an up-and-coming paleontologist in the family? Then this is the biography you’re looking for! Mary Anning was a true scientific pioneer. Every young dino fan will be enraptured by the story of how her earth-shaking scientific career began by hunting for fossils in her own backyard. This fully illustrated picture book invites 4- to 9-year-olds to turn over pages and stones as they advance their exploratory skills .

Who Was Ruth Bader Ginsburg? (Who Is/Was)

By Patricia Brennan Demuth

The Who Was … books are among the best biographies for kids, presenting accurate history in an easy-to-read style. Who Was Ruth Bader Ginsburg? introduces kids to one of the renowned legal minds of our time while making her feel accessible, relatable, and wholeheartedly human. This story of Ginsburg’s advocacy for gender equality and women’s rights will empower readers from ages 8 to 11 to stand up for what they believe in as they learn to read independently and think critically.

Women Who Dared: 52 Stories of Fearless Daredevils, Adventurers, and Rebels

If your 10- to 13-year-old reader loves adventure-packed stories, this book is a must-have. They might’ve heard about Amelia Earhart in school, but they’ll marvel at the lesser-known stories of Russian astronaut Valentina Tereshkova, stuntwoman Helen Gibson, and oceanographer Sylvia Earle in this riveting collection. Each profile is short and readable, yet brimming with value and heart. Try reading one profile with your child before bed each night and watch as they gravitate toward certain adventurers, navigate moral complexities, and relate the stories to their own lives.

Help Your Child Dream Big With Biographies From Literati Book Clubs

Once your kids start learning about the real lives of influential people like the ones above, they’ll realize how endless their own potential really is. You can make sure your reader is always stocked up with the best biographies for kids—along with all the other genres they love—by becoming a Literati Kids Book Club member. We’ll send your child the best-in-class literature suited perfectly to their reading level and interests. The result? A passion for reading, a thirst for learning, and ideas that flow as freely as David Bowie’s melodies. To get started, complete our quick personalization quiz and open the gates to your young reader’s literary adventure today.

LITERATI EXTRA CREDIT

Free Reading Resources & Activities

We’ve made it easy to support your reader at home. Literati’s Extra Credit reading newsletter provides parents with free, research-backed reading resources, activities, and more! Sign up today to get started.

Explore Related Articles

Literati’s First Annual Kids’ Favorite Book Awards

The Best Fun and Engaging Nonfiction Books For Kids

The Best Fantasy & Folklore Books For Kids

Shop the 2024 Back-to-School Guide

You are about to leave our Parents site. Are you sure you want to leave?

By clicking continue, your current session will end.

• Level a Book
• Build a Collection
• Create a Quote
• Purchase Order
• Back-to-School Guide
• New Programs
• Collections
• ClassroomsCount™ Campaigns
• eGift Cards
• ESSER Funding
• Education Solutions
• Teaching Tools
• Back to School Solutions
• Customer Service
• Order Lookup

Select Your Partner Organization

If you are already registered on our website, you can sign in by selecting your partner organization below, then entering your email address and password on the next screen.

• SELECT ORGANIZATION
• FACE MEMBERSHIP
• LITERACY PARTNERSHIPS

Biographies & Autobiographies for Kids

This item is temporarily out of stock. Our order for this product is expected on .

Please enter a valid e-mail

Thank you! We will contact you when the item is available.

To be notified when this item is available, please click the "Notify Me" button below.

Item is on backorder and will ship when available.

Your order will ship on or around the release date.

Key Features

Description.

Online Resources

Teacher tips, user benefits.

Discover More

Read The Article

About the author, product details.

• File Format:
• Weston Woods ID:
• Manufacturer:
• Lexile® Measure:
• Reading Level:
• Spanish Lexile Measure:
• Spanish Reading Level:
• Funding Type:

Also included in Collections

Walking by the Way

the road to inspired learning

45 Books for an 8th Grader Who Loves to Read

March 28, 2016 by ami 5 Comments

Elijah is currently finishing up his 8th grade year, so I am going to go ahead and share his 8th grade reading list. As always we both chose books for this list. I give him a list at the beginning of the year, and he adds to it based on his interests and authors he enjoys.

Please use PluggedIn and Common Sense Media  to find reviews that include specific details about sex, profanity, violence, spiritual beliefs presented, etc. The 7th and 8th grade reading lists include more mature content than the elementary lists, but I still try to find living books that are wholesome and worthy of discussion.

Earthquake at Dawn by Kristina Gregory

Zlata's Diary: A Child's Life in Wartime Sarajevo by Zlata Filipovic

The Great Little Madison by Jean Fritz

Journey to Topaz: A Story of the Japanese-American Evacuation by Yoshiko Uchida

Jonathan Goforth: An Open Door in China   by Janet & Geoff Benge

C. S. Lewis: Master Storyteller by Janet & Geoff Benge

Bomb: The Race to Build—and Steal—the World’s Most Dangerous Weapon by Steve Sheinkin*

An American Plague: The True and Terrifying Story of the Yellow Fever Epidemic of 1793 by Jim Murphy*

The Wright Brothers: How They Invented the Airplane by Russell Freedman*

Washington at Valley Forge by Russell Freedman

Historical Fiction

Across Five Aprils by Irene Hunt*

The Witch of Blackbird Pond by Elizabeth George Speare*

Johnny Tremain by Esther Hoskins Forbes*

Dragon's Gate by Laurence Yep

Stowaway by Karen Hesse

Out of the Dust by Karen Hesse*

The Sherwood Ring by Elizabeth Marie Pope

A Murder for Her Majesty by Beth Hilgartner 

The Prospering by Elizabeth George Speare

The King’s Fifth by Scott O’Dell*

Heart of a Samurai by Margi Preus*

Nory Ryan’s Song by Patriica Reilly Giff

The Endless Steppe: Growing Up in Siberia by Esther Hautzig

The Book Thief by Markus Zusak

The War That Saved My Life   by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley*

War Horse and Farm Boy by Michael Morpurgo (two books, same story, different points of view)

Realistic Fiction

A Day No Pigs Would Die by Robert Newton Peck

Liar and Spy by Rebecca Stead

The Wednesday Wars by Gary D. Schmidt*

The Garbage King by Elizabeth Laird

Banner in the Sky by James Ramsey Ullman*

The Cay by Theodore Taylor

Fantasy & Science Fiction

Eragon by Christopher Paolini

Eldest by Christopher Paolini

Brisingr by Christopher Paolini

Inheritance by Christopher Paolini

When You Reach Me by Rebecca Stead*

The White Mountains by Christopher John

Savvy by Ingrid Law*

Scumble  by Ingrid Law

Switch  by Ingrid Law

Classic Literature

Tom Sawyer by Mark Twain

Huckleberry Finn by Mark Twain

The Great Adventures of Sherlock Holmes by Arthur Conan Doyle

The Extraordinary Cases of Sherlock Holmes by Arthur Conan Doyle

The Sword in the Stone by T. H. White

*denotes a Newbery Award or Honor Book

What books has your 8th grader enjoyed?

If you are looking for more reading lists for kids who love to read, please check out my Reading Lists for Voracious Readers page . 

November 2, 2016 at 2:31 pm

My daughter does not like to read, but her school has a reading requirement that is a huge part of their language arts grade.  Can you recommend a few books for someone who is interested in mystery stuff, on the lines of CSI type stuff?  She's in 8th grade, 

May 30, 2017 at 9:04 pm

This is for Michele, "A Murder for Her Majesty" is a mystery book, though not exactly CSI style. You might also try John Grisham's books for kids – The Theodore Boone series. The first book is "Theodore Boone, Kid Lawyer".

September 1, 2018 at 9:41 pm

The hunger games is a great book as well

July 16, 2019 at 10:47 am

We have read aloud (after bible time) almost every book written by Janet & Geoff Benge. They are faith-building, and teach geography, history, and cultures. They have been the second best books we’ve read (the bible being the first).

[…] 45 Books for an 8th Grader Who Loves to Read […]

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Top 10 Biography And Autobiography Middle Grade Books

Biography And Autobiography .css-1d7zhjm{display:inline;-webkit-appearance:none;-moz-appearance:none;-ms-appearance:none;appearance:none;-webkit-align-items:center;-webkit-box-align:center;-ms-flex-align:center;align-items:center;-webkit-box-pack:center;-ms-flex-pack:center;-webkit-justify-content:center;justify-content:center;-webkit-user-select:none;-moz-user-select:none;-ms-user-select:none;user-select:none;vertical-align:middle;outline:2px solid transparent;outline-offset:2px;line-height:inherit;font-weight:500;transition-property:var(--chakra-transition-property-common);transition-duration:var(--chakra-transition-duration-normal);height:auto;min-width:3rem;-webkit-padding-start:var(--chakra-space-6);padding-inline-start:var(--chakra-space-6);-webkit-padding-end:var(--chakra-space-6);padding-inline-end:var(--chakra-space-6);background:none;color:inherit;margin:0px;padding:0.3em;padding-left:0px;border-bottom:2px solid;border-color:hsl(24,100%,62%);border-radius:0px;min-height:auto;font-size:inherit;position:relative;top:-2px;padding-top:0px;padding-bottom:0px;white-space:break-spaces;text-align:left;}.css-1d7zhjm:focus-visible,.css-1d7zhjm[data-focus-visible]{box-shadow:var(--chakra-shadows-outline);}.css-1d7zhjm:disabled,.css-1d7zhjm[disabled],.css-1d7zhjm[aria-disabled=true],.css-1d7zhjm[data-disabled]{opacity:0.4;cursor:not-allowed;box-shadow:var(--chakra-shadows-none);}.css-1d7zhjm:active,.css-1d7zhjm[data-active]{box-shadow:inherit;} Middle Grade Books .css-104bggj{position:relative;display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;-webkit-flex-direction:column;-ms-flex-direction:column;flex-direction:column;--popper-bg:var(--chakra-colors-white);background:var(--popper-bg);--popper-arrow-bg:var(--popper-bg);--popper-arrow-shadow-color:var(--chakra-colors-gray-200);width:332px;border:1px solid;border-color:inherit;border-radius:var(--chakra-radii-md);box-shadow:var(--chakra-shadows-sm);z-index:inherit;max-height:calc(100vh - var(--fixed-height) - 4px);overflow-y:auto;font-size:var(--chakra-fontSizes-md);padding-top:var(--chakra-space-2);-webkit-padding-start:var(--chakra-space-3);padding-inline-start:var(--chakra-space-3);-webkit-padding-end:var(--chakra-space-3);padding-inline-end:var(--chakra-space-3);}.chakra-ui-dark .css-104bggj:not([data-theme]),[data-theme=dark] .css-104bggj:not([data-theme]),.css-104bggj[data-theme=dark]{--popper-bg:var(--chakra-colors-gray-700);--popper-arrow-shadow-color:var(--chakra-colors-whiteAlpha-300);}.css-104bggj:focus-visible,.css-104bggj[data-focus-visible]{outline:2px solid transparent;outline-offset:2px;box-shadow:var(--chakra-shadows-outline);} .css-1xhq01z{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;-webkit-box-pack:start;-ms-flex-pack:start;-webkit-justify-content:flex-start;justify-content:flex-start;-webkit-flex-direction:row;-ms-flex-direction:row;flex-direction:row;border-bottom:2px solid;border-color:inherit;} .css-1ovd7gv{outline:2px solid transparent;outline-offset:2px;display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;-webkit-align-items:center;-webkit-box-align:center;-ms-flex-align:center;align-items:center;-webkit-box-pack:center;-ms-flex-pack:center;-webkit-justify-content:center;justify-content:center;transition-property:var(--chakra-transition-property-common);transition-duration:var(--chakra-transition-duration-normal);font-weight:500;color:var(--tabs-color);font-size:var(--chakra-fontSizes-md);padding-top:var(--chakra-space-2);padding-bottom:var(--chakra-space-2);-webkit-padding-start:var(--chakra-space-4);padding-inline-start:var(--chakra-space-4);-webkit-padding-end:var(--chakra-space-4);padding-inline-end:var(--chakra-space-4);border-bottom:2px solid;border-color:var(--chakra-colors-transparent);margin-bottom:-2px;background:var(--tabs-bg);}.css-1ovd7gv:focus-visible,.css-1ovd7gv[data-focus-visible]{z-index:1;box-shadow:var(--chakra-shadows-outline);}.css-1ovd7gv:disabled,.css-1ovd7gv[disabled],.css-1ovd7gv[aria-disabled=true],.css-1ovd7gv[data-disabled]{cursor:not-allowed;opacity:0.4;}.css-1ovd7gv:disabled:active,.css-1ovd7gv[disabled]:active,.css-1ovd7gv[aria-disabled=true]:active,.css-1ovd7gv[data-disabled]:active,.css-1ovd7gv:disabled[data-active],.css-1ovd7gv[disabled][data-active],.css-1ovd7gv[aria-disabled=true][data-active],.css-1ovd7gv[data-disabled][data-active]{background:none;}.css-1ovd7gv[aria-selected=true],.css-1ovd7gv[data-selected]{--tabs-color:var(--chakra-colors-blue-600);border-color:var(--chakra-colors-primary-500);color:var(--chakra-colors-gray-800);}.chakra-ui-dark .css-1ovd7gv[aria-selected=true]:not([data-theme]),.chakra-ui-dark .css-1ovd7gv[data-selected]:not([data-theme]),[data-theme=dark] .css-1ovd7gv[aria-selected=true]:not([data-theme]),[data-theme=dark] .css-1ovd7gv[data-selected]:not([data-theme]),.css-1ovd7gv[aria-selected=true][data-theme=dark],.css-1ovd7gv[data-selected][data-theme=dark]{--tabs-color:var(--chakra-colors-blue-300);}.css-1ovd7gv:active,.css-1ovd7gv[data-active]{--tabs-bg:var(--chakra-colors-gray-200);}.chakra-ui-dark .css-1ovd7gv:active:not([data-theme]),.chakra-ui-dark .css-1ovd7gv[data-active]:not([data-theme]),[data-theme=dark] .css-1ovd7gv:active:not([data-theme]),[data-theme=dark] .css-1ovd7gv[data-active]:not([data-theme]),.css-1ovd7gv:active[data-theme=dark],.css-1ovd7gv[data-active][data-theme=dark]{--tabs-bg:var(--chakra-colors-whiteAlpha-300);} Audience Grade Level Age .css-8atqhb{width:100%;} .css-adm2jf{padding:var(--chakra-space-4);outline:2px solid transparent;outline-offset:2px;-webkit-padding-start:0px;padding-inline-start:0px;-webkit-padding-end:0px;padding-inline-end:0px;} .css-165casq{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;-webkit-flex-direction:column;-ms-flex-direction:column;flex-direction:column;gap:0px;} .css-xf5wi8{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;-webkit-align-items:center;-webkit-box-align:center;-ms-flex-align:center;align-items:center;-webkit-flex-direction:row;-ms-flex-direction:row;flex-direction:row;gap:0.5rem;padding-top:var(--chakra-space-3);padding-bottom:var(--chakra-space-3);-webkit-padding-start:var(--chakra-space-1);padding-inline-start:var(--chakra-space-1);-webkit-padding-end:var(--chakra-space-1);padding-inline-end:var(--chakra-space-1);border-radius:var(--chakra-radii-md);cursor:pointer;}.css-xf5wi8:hover,.css-xf5wi8[data-hover]{background:var(--chakra-colors-gray-50);} .css-1t9pz9x{width:20px;height:20px;} All Books Board Books Picture Books First Reader Books Early Reader Books Junior Reader Books Middle Grade Books Young Adult Books All Books Books for Pre K Books for 1st Graders Books for 2nd Graders Books for 3rd Graders Books for 4th Graders Books for 5th Graders Books for 6th Graders Books for 7th Graders Books for 8th Graders Books for 9th Graders All Books Books for 0-3 Year Olds Books for 3-5 Year Olds Books for 6-8 Year Olds Books for 9-12 Year Olds

• Help Center
• Gift a Book Club
• Beautiful Collections
• Schedule Demo

Book Platform

• Find a Book
• Reading App
• Community Editors

Authors & Illustrators

• Get Your Book Reviewed
• Submit Original Work

Follow Bookroo

• Skip to primary navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar
• Skip to footer

Download 100 Best Middle Grade Books. Send it!

Join our Patreon Community for EXCLUSIVE content

Reading Middle Grade

Books for Kids and Grown Ups

60 of the Best Books for 8th Graders

The best books for eight graders (who are usually around age 13) are upper middle-grade and young YA titles! That’s what you find recommended on this list. Still, I tend to lean toward conservative choices, especially for kids who are still under the age of 16. So I’ve included books about crushes, body image, sexual harassment and consent, and identity. Many of these books are personal favorites that I would certainly hand to my favorite 13 year olds.

For newer books for 8th graders, check out our brand new list of  books for 13 year olds .

Click on the graphics to head over to the book’s Amazon page.

Disclaimer: I use affiliate links for Amazon and will make a cent or two if you buy using these links. It’s a great way to support a blog(ger) you love.

Get a printable of this list  to take to your library. Just pop your email in the box below and it’ll come right to you!

Mary Underwater

Published: April 7, 2020

Mary Murphy feels like she’s drowning. Her violent father is home from prison, and the social worker is suspicious of her new bruises. An aunt she’s never met keeps calling. And if she can’t get a good grade on her science project, she’ll fail her favorite class.

But Mary doesn’t want to be a victim anymore. She has a plan: build a real submarine, like the model she’s been making with Kip Dwyer, the secretly sweet class clown. Gaining courage from her heroine, Joan of Arc, Mary vows to pilot a sub across the Chesapeake Bay, risking her life in a modern crusade to save herself.

Published: May 11, 2021

Mary O’Malley is tired of keeping secrets. Secrets like her older brother, Jonny’s, drug use. Starting seventh grade is tough enough without the upheaval her brother is bringing to their family.

It seems the only person who might understand is Griffen Connolly, whose older sister runs with Jonny in the wrong crowd. Mary thought Griff was too cool, too popular for her. But now he wants to hang out with her, and listen.

When two girls Mary thought were her friends decide to slam another girl online, Mary tries to look the other way. Then the girls turn on Mary, and suddenly, she doesn’t have a safety zone. Her brother is out of control, her family’s energies are all spent on him. There is only one person she can turn to. But can she trust Griff? Or is he one of the bullies?

13 and Counting

Published: August 6, 2019

With winter break almost over and seventh grade spinning beyond their control, best friends Kaylan and Ari write a new list of 13 resolutions to make the New Year, middle school, and their friendship even more amazing before they go to separate camps next summer.

But what happens when their bestie bucket list reveals issues in their friend group? Can they want totally different things and still be BFFs?

Told in the alternating POVs of Ari and Kaylan—and with goals inspired by suggestions from readers—this contemporary coming-of-age story is bound to be the most heartbreaking and hilarious Friendship List yet.

Taking Up Space

Published: May 18, 2021

Sarah loves basketball more than anything. Crushing it on the court makes her feel like she matters. And it’s the only thing that helps her ignore how much it hurts when her mom forgets to feed her.

But lately Sarah can’t even play basketball right. She’s slower now and missing shots she should be able to make. Her body doesn’t feel like it’s her own anymore. She’s worried that changing herself back to how she used to be is the only way she can take control over what’s happening.

When Sarah’s crush asks her to be partners in a cooking competition, she feels pulled in a million directions. She’ll have to dig deep to stand up for what she needs at home, be honest with her best friends, and accept that she doesn’t need to change to feel good about herself.

Related :  Alyson Gerber on Taking Up Space

Published: July 25, 2017

JOSEF is a Jewish boy living in 1930s Nazi Germany. With the threat of concentration camps looming, he and his family board a ship bound for the other side of the world . . .

ISABEL is a Cuban girl in 1994. With riots and unrest plaguing her country, she and her family set out on a raft, hoping to find safety in America . . .

MAHMOUD is a Syrian boy in 2015. With his homeland torn apart by violence and destruction, he and his family begin a long trek toward Europe . . .

All three kids go on harrowing journeys in search of refuge. All will face unimaginable dangers — from drownings to bombings to betrayals. But there is always the hope of  tomorrow . And although Josef, Isabel, and Mahmoud are separated by continents and decades, shocking connections will tie their stories together in the end.

This action-packed novel tackles topics both timely and timeless: courage, survival, and the quest for home.

Give Me a Sign

Published: July 11, 2023

Lilah is a teen with hearing loss but who isn’t profoundly deaf. So she has always felt caught in the middle — not deaf enough to be part of the Deaf community and not fully hearing to fit in completely there either. But when she becomes a counselor at a summer camp for deaf and blind kids, her experiences (and the boy she falls in love with) change the way the views her disability.

I loved this beautiful exploration of Deaf culture with a nostalgic summer camp setting and sweet first love. This book is a great addition to the slim pickings of  YA books about disability . I’d recommend this for readers ages 13+ who want to learn more about deafness and Deaf culture + are looking for a summer camp romance.

Cuba in My Pocket

Published: September 21, 2021

When the failed Bay of Pigs invasion in 1961 solidifies Castro’s power in Cuba, twelve-year-old Cumba’s family makes the difficult decision to send him to Florida alone. Faced with the prospect of living in another country by himself, Cumba tries to remember the sound of his father’s clarinet, the smell of his mother’s lavender perfume.

Life in the United States presents a whole new set of challenges. Lost in a sea of English speakers, Cumba has to navigate a new city, a new school, and new freedom all on his own. With each day, Cumba feels more confident in his new surroundings, but he continues to wonder: Will his family ever be whole again? Or will they remain just out of reach, ninety miles across the sea?

Red, White, and Whole

Published: February 2, 2021

The year is 1983 and 13-year-old Reha is caught between two cultures: her Indian family and community at home; and the all-American experience at school and with her white “school best friend.” But it’s not all rosy. Her mother doesn’t approve of Reha acting more American than Indian. She makes all of Reha’s clothes herself and is upset when Reha says she would like to go to the school dance.

Reha is understandably frustrated at her mother’s lack of understanding, but she’s about to have more problems. Her mom is diagnosed with leukemia and Reha’s life is turned upside down. Between school, family issues, and navigating her affection for a boy in her neighborhood, Reha has her plate full.

This is a heartwarming and heartbreaking verse novel about mothers and daughters, the eighties, and straddling two cultures. This moving middle-grade novel with a protagonist coming of age in the midst of a traumatic life experience will appeal both to younger and older readers between ages 10-14

Related :   Rajani LaRocca on Red, White and Whole, Family and the 80’s

Carry Me Home

Published: August 24, 2021

Twelve-year-old Lulu and her younger sister, Serena, have a secret. As Daddy always says, “it’s best if we keep it to ourselves,” and so they have. But hiding your past is one thing. Hiding where you live—and that your Daddy has gone missing—is harder.

At first Lulu isn’t worried. Daddy has gone away once before and he came back. But as the days add up, with no sign of Daddy, Lulu struggles to take care of all the responsibilities they used to manage as a family.

Lulu knows that all it takes is one slip-up for their secret to come spilling out, for Lulu and Serena to be separated, and for all the good things that have been happening in school to be lost.

But family is all around us, and Lulu must learn to trust her new friends and community to save those she loves and to finally find her true home.

I Love You So Mochi

Published: May 28, 2019

Japanese-American, Kimi Nakamura is fashion-loving teen who spends her time designing and sewing bold, creative outfits. The only problem is that her mother — a graphic designer who always wanted to be an artist — expects Kimi to become a “real artist.” To her, Kimi’s designs should remain a “hobby.”

Although Kimi has already been accepted to a reputable fine art college, she hasn’t told her mother that she’s dropped out of Advanced Fine Art and hasn’t painted anything all semester. When her mother finds out and is sorely disappointed, Kimi takes advantage of her estranged grandparents’ offer to visit Kyoto.

This is a delightful, delicious young adult novel, perfect for anyone desperate for a trip to Japan on a page. Yet, it isn’t all fluff. It features a determined, artistic heroine and sheds light on all the ways parental pressures can change a person’s path in life. I would highly recommend this novel to fans of  American Panda , fashion aficionados, and anyone whose dreams have run contrary to parental wishes.

Related:  72 Asian YA novels to Read ASAP

Big Apple Diaries

Published: August 17, 2021

Big Apple Diaries  is Alyssa Bermudez’s graphic memoir detailing her life experiences in New York City between the 7th and 8th grades. Her middle school years also coincide with the attack on 9/11 and the book documents the impact on her and her circle.

I enjoyed this relatable and enjoyable coming-of-age  graphic memoir . Managing crushes, schoolwork, and a living in two homes  after her parents divorce , young Alyssa is also  actively doodling/journaling  — a skill she will continue to use. This is a much-needed personal account of 9/11 that will appeal to a younger audience. I would recommend this one to kids ages 11 and up.

The Love Report

Published: June 13, 2023

Grace and Lola are BFFs who decide to do a project to study love. Their research (if you can call it that) opens their eyes to how fickle romantic love can be (especially among infatuated teens), the negative effects of stereotypes (a goth has more to her personality than the way she dresses, an assumed “bimbo” is more than just a pretty face). But it also forces them to examine their own friendship and how well they show up for each other.

I loved the illustration style in this book and I liked the way the story connects to both girls’ families and the depiction of toxic masculinity and its impact on young boys. This book covers many themes, from parental separation to sexual harassment, but I think what it does best is extolling the value of female friendships through the ups and downs of life. I’d hand this to older kids ages 11+

Published: September 12, 2017

14-year-old David is a quintessential middle child. His sister Bridgette is in college and the family’s academic success story. Mal, his younger brother is on the autism spectrum, although his family prefers not to use the autism label. Mal is almost non-verbal and only says the word “okay.” David has always has a large appetite and an interest in competitive eating, but after he accidentally leaves a $2000 bill on his mother’s credit card, he’s forced to join a pizza-eating contest to win the grand prize of $5000.

This is an engaging, funny, true-to-life story about competitive eating,  navigating friendship dilemmas , understanding an  autistic sibling , and finding one’s place in their family. David is easy to love and the family dynamics in this story are truly heartwarming. I would totally hand this to anyone looking to read  more “boy books.”  

Breathing Underwater

Published: March 30, 2021

Thirteen-year-old Olivia is excited about going on a road trip back to California with her sister and their uncle and aunt. Their family moved to Tennessee from California three years ago, and the girls had buried a time capsule before their move. Olivia’s big sister Ruth is now 16 and clinically depressed. She has good and bad days and is on medication to manage her depression.

Olivia feels responsible for Ruth’s happiness and has a plan to recover their time capsule, while doing a photo project during their trip to remind Ruth of good times and make her just a little happier. But she soon finds out that with mental illness, it’s not always so simple.

This a beautifully written, moving middle grade novel about sisterhood, art, and loving a sibling with a mental illness. This book portrays depression realistically, showing the highs and lows while reminding loved ones that sometimes loving people the way you know how to is the best you can do. Fans of books about road trips, family stories, or emotional stories will love this quiet middle grade novel.

The Next Great Jane

Published: May 19, 2020

Jane Brannen wants nothing more than to become a famous author like Jane Austen–she just needs to figure out the key to literary success! Her chance to uncover the secret arrives when bestselling author J. E. Fairfax visits her tiny town of Whickett Harbor. Unfortunately, a hurricane rolls in and Jane gets stuck with the author’s snobbish son, Devon, instead.

But when the skies clear, Jane realizes the wind has blown in something worse than annoying boys: Her mother, Susan, and Susan’s new fiancé, Erik, have flown all the way from Hollywood to file for custody and bring Jane back to California. Now she needs to find a mate for her marine biologist father and figure out what’s truly important about Whickett Harbor, so she can prove to her mother that this is where she’s meant to stay.

Gabe in the After

Published: June 28, 2022

Two years after a global pandemic, twenty survivors (most of them children) have relocated from their coastal Maine island full of sad memories to a mansion on a small, neighboring island where they have school and farm chores. When Gabe and his dog, Mud, find Relle Douglas alone in the woods on the mainland, they take the strange new girl across the channel to live with them. 

Relle changes the island with her hopeful attitude. She tells big stories and makes plans for activities like talent shows. Despite a growing crush, Gabe doesn’t quite understand the point of it all; why have a talent show at the end of the world? But when tragedy strikes, Gabe sets out on a dangerous journey to try and find other survivors where the world might be normal. Like Before. 

Nikki on the Line

Published: March 5, 2019

13-year-old Nikki Doyle feels one step closer to her pro basketball player dreams when she gets signed on to an elite-level club team. But her mother doesn’t have enough to pay for the club, and so Nikki offers to watch her little brother after school so they can save on daycare money. Unfortunately, playing for the club isn’t nearly as easy as Nikki expects.

Shorter than her teammates and suddenly no longer point guard on the new team, she feels out of place. What’s more, her new busy schedule means she can’t hang out with the team as much as she’d like. On top of that, a new genetics project at school reminds Nikki that her biological father was a sperm donor. Between juggling all her responsibilities and proving herself a valuable member of the team, it feels like everything is on the line for Nikki.

Rhythm and Muse

Published: May 30, 2023

High school junior Darren Johnson lives in his head. There, he can pine for his crush—total dream girl, Delia Dawson—in peace, away from the unsolicited opinions of his talkative family and showboat friends. When Delia announces a theme song contest for her popular podcast,  Dillie D in the Place to Be,  Darren’s friends—convinced he’ll never make a move—submit one of his secret side projects for consideration.

This was very sweet! I loved the message of putting yourself out there instead of living in your head. I also liked that while we’re in Darren’s head, we learn enough about his love interest that she’s not just a manic-pixie dream girl. This young YA features lovely teen-parent relationships and main characters who attend church without it being a preachy book. I thought it was really fun and perfect for younger teens 12+ with nearly no language!

Published: August 28, 2018

It all starts when six kids have to meet for a weekly chat–by themselves, with no adults to listen in. There, in the room they soon dub the ARTT Room (short for “A Room to Talk”), they discover it’s safe to talk about what’s bothering them–everything from Esteban’s father’s deportation and Haley’s father’s incarceration to Amari’s fears of racial profiling and Ashton’s adjustment to his changing family fortunes.

When the six are together, they can express the feelings and fears they have to hide from the rest of the world. And together, they can grow braver and more ready for the rest of their lives.

Good Enough

Published: February 19, 2019

12-year-old Riley has an eating disorder and now she can’t do the things she used to love doing — like art and running. Her parents check her into a treatment facility with other girls who have eating disorders.

I liked this book about a girl in treatment for anorexia. The author does a fantastic job depicting the experience of struggling with an eating disorder and how non-linear the healing process can be. The story feels authentic and is highly insightful about the therapy process. I also liked the diary-style format .

Abby, Tried and True

Published: March 9, 2021

When Abby Braverman’s best friend, Cat, moves to Israel, she’s sure it’s the worst thing that could happen. But then her older brother, Paul, is diagnosed with cancer, and life upends again. Now it’s up to Abby to find a way to navigate seventh grade without her best friend, help keep her brother’s spirits up during difficult treatments, and figure out her surprising new feelings for the boy next door.

Turning Point

Published: September 15, 2020

This book focuses on Monique (Mo) and Rasheeda (Sheeda)’s friendship and how it changes over a summer when both girls are drawn into different pursuits. Mo is off at a ballet intensive with Mila, while Sheeda is stuck at church (with her church “friends”) feeling like she has no life.

At the ballet intensive, Mo comes face to face with her competitive attitude which is fueled by feelings of not “fitting in” with the mostly white, skinny ballet dancers. Even though she makes a couple of friends (who basically lovingly force her to befriend them), she’s insecure at times, afraid to be vulnerable because everything feels so different. On the other hand, Sheeda is desperate for something new. Unfortunately, she falls into a risky situation with Mo’s brother whom she happens to have a crush on.

This is a compulsively readable upper middle-grade book for kids ages 11+ that explores a horde of important themes–everything from  female friendships ,  body image , sexual harassment, religion, racial prejudice, to ballet. If you’re looking for a middle-grade book about ballet, I’d highly recommend this one.

Related :  23 Best Middle-Grade Books About Body Image and Body Positivit

Nowhere Boy

Published: August 7, 2018

Fourteen-year-old Ahmed is stuck in a city that wants nothing to do with him. Newly arrived in Brussels, Belgium, Ahmed fled a life of uncertainty and suffering in Aleppo, Syria, only to lose his father on the perilous journey to the shores of Europe. Now Ahmed’s struggling to get by on his own, but with no one left to trust and nowhere to go, he’s starting to lose hope.

Then he meets Max, a thirteen-year-old American boy from Washington, D.C. Lonely and homesick, Max is struggling at his new school and just can’t seem to do anything right. But with one startling discovery, Max and Ahmed’s lives collide and a friendship begins to grow. Together, Max and Ahmed will defy the odds, learning from each other what it means to be brave and how hope can change your destiny.

When the Vibe Is Right

Tess Crawford wants to be a Carnival costume designer, but she won’t be able to do that if her uncle’s designing business closes. Business has been slow, and they need a social media presence to compete with newer designers. Enter the funny Brandon, social media expert extraordinaire, whom Tess can’t stand.

This was certainly enjoyable, with lots of information and love for the Trini carnival and a nice approach to grief, vulnerability, and pursuing dreams. I iked the male protagonist’s sunshine to mellow out Tess’s grumpiness. Overall, really fun and wonderful on audio. Great for teens ages 13+

Beverly, Right Here

Published: September 24, 2019

It’s the summer of 1979. 14-year-old Beverly Tapinski leaves home and arrives at the Seahorse Court RV community in Florida. She’s grieving the death of her (and the Three Rancheros’ dog, Buddy) and has left her friend Raymie without even saying goodbye. Beverly’s alcoholic mother, Rhonda doesn’t care much about what happens to her.

All alone and away from home, Beverly meets an older, eccentric woman named Iola. Iola takes Beverly in and the two begin to build a friendship despite Beverly’s initial resistance. She also gets a job as a busgirl at a fish place, even though she hates fish. Then she meets 16-year-old Elmer, who wants to study engineering at Dartmouth.

The Epic Fail of Arturo Zamora

Published: May 16, 2017

For Arturo, summertime in Miami means playing basketball until dark, sipping mango smoothies, and keeping cool under banyan trees. And maybe a few shifts as junior lunchtime dishwasher at Abuela’s restaurant. Maybe. But this summer also includes Carmen, a poetry enthusiast who moves into Arturo’s apartment complex and turns his stomach into a deep fryer. He almost doesn’t notice the smarmy land developer who rolls into town and threatens to change it. 

Arturo refuses to let his family and community go down without a fight, and as he schemes with Carmen, Arturo discovers the power of poetry and protest through untold family stories and the work of José Martí.

Keep It Together, Keiko Carter

Published: May 5, 2020

Keiko is thrilled that her two BFFs, Jenna and Audrey, are reuniting with her after their first ever summer apart. But when Jenna returns from Texas, she doesn’t seem to fit back in seamlessly anymore — probably because they stopped texting each other after a while. It doesn’t help that Audrey seems boy-crazy and has never really gotten on too well with Jenna anyway.

As Jenna and Audrey’s friendship deteriorates over the fall, Keiko feels torn between both girls. She also rekindles some old friendships that threaten her relationship with Audrey. As a result, confrontation-averse, peace-making Keiko is forced to decide whether or not she will stand up for herself in her friendship with Audrey.

On top of everything else, Keiko’s family seems to be changing: her mom is working later and later, and seems to be avoiding coming home — and her little sister seems to keeping a secret. Will Keiko keep it all together?

Violets Are Blue

Published: October 12, 2021

12-year-old Wren lives with her mom after her parents’ divorce. Her dad has moved to New York City and married his lover (with whom he was unfaithful to her mother), who is now expecting twins. Wren is also a special effects makeup aficionado. Caught up in a new school, navigating new friendships, and balancing her relationships with her parents — whose relationship with each other is strained — Wren notices her mom has begun behaving strangely.

I loved this engaging middle grade book with a relatable, creative protagonist dealing with parental substance abuse. It also spotlights the reality of coping with parental divorce after infidelity and thereafter adjusting to a new blended family. Fans of stories with kids who love arts and crafts, as well as musical theater, will also enjoy this book. 

Summer at Meadow Wood

Vic and her little brother have been sent off to summer camp for eight weeks. Although summer at Meadow Wood seems to be a regular occurrence, Vic is convinced that the reason they’ve been “shipped off” this time is different. Besides, things are going poorly between her parents. As a result, she’s not excited to be there. Still, she tries to make it work, reconnecting with her friends in Yarrow camp while trying to be a good camp sister to a younger camper, Vera.

When her mom says she doesn’t have money to pay for canteen for Vic and her brother, Vic starts working at the farm with one of the camp owners, Earl. She also goes with him to the market — which she gets paid for. Eventually, Vic learns more about the state of her parents’ relationship and forms closer bonds with everyone at camp and even a certain boy at the market.

Maid for It

Published: September 5, 2023

Franny and her mom are finally bouncing back from her mother’s battle with opioid addiction when her mom gets in an accident and is prescribed opioids for the pain. Now her mom can’t do her cleaning jobs and the bills are piling up. The last time that happened, her mother relapsed. So Franny decides she’ll keep doing her mom’s jobs behind her back to keep them afloat and keep her mom out of rehab.

Like everything Sumner writes, this was impossible to put down. It has just about everything middle grade readers love in a good book: the struggle to find good friends, family drama, a strong-willed protagonist, secrets, and suspense. There’s also plenty of info about addiction, which is why this is better for kids ages 10+

All Summer Long

Published: May 1, 2018

Thirteen-year-old Bina has a long summer ahead of her. She and her best friend, Austin, usually do everything together, but he’s off to soccer camp for a month, and he’s been acting kind of weird lately anyway. So it’s up to Bina to see how much fun she can have on her own.

At first it’s a lot of guitar playing, boredom, and bad TV, but things look up when she finds an unlikely companion in Austin’s older sister, who enjoys music just as much as Bina. But then Austin comes home from camp, and he’s acting even weirder than when he left. How Bina and Austin rise above their growing pains and reestablish their friendship and respect for their differences makes for a touching and funny coming-of-age story.

Published: March 28, 2017

Rachel Brooks has finally scored a spot as a forward on her soccer team. She just needs one more doctor’s visit to check on her scoliosis — one she hopes will be the last.

Unfortunately, the doctor has bad news for her: the curve has worsened and she’ll have to wear a back brace. Worse still, she needs to be in a back brace for twenty-three hours a day. How will she still play soccer? What will her friends think? And what about Tate, the boy she’s crushing on?

This is an important, realistic story of a girl dealing with scoliosis in middle school. With an immersive, charged plot, this story touches multiple themes from scoliosis, to soccer,  family , the  death of a parent , and even the emotions of welcoming a new sibling.

The Many Meanings of Meilan

Meilan Hua’s world is made up of a few key ingredients: her family’s beloved matriarch, Nai Nai; the bakery her parents, aunts, and uncles own and run in Boston’s Chinatown; and her favorite Chinese fairy tales.

After Nai Nai passes, the family has a falling-out that sends Meilan, her parents, and her grieving grandfather on the road in search of a new home. They take a winding path across the country before landing in Redbud, Ohio. Everything in Redbud is the opposite of Chinatown, and Meilan’s not quite sure who she is–being renamed at school only makes it worse.

She decides she is many Meilans, each inspired by a different Chinese character with the same pronunciation as her name. Sometimes she is Mist, cooling and invisible; other times, she’s Basket, carrying her parents’ hopes and dreams and her guilt of not living up to them; and occasionally she is bright Blue, the way she feels around her new friend Logan. Meilan keeps her facets separate until an injustice at school shows her the power of bringing her many selves together.

Almost American Girl

Published: January 28, 2020

Robin is 14 when she and her mother leave for one of their regular visits to the US. Except, this time it’s not Hawaii or any other vacation hotspot — it’s Alabama. Robin’s mother has been encouraging her to learn English like she has been doing, but Robin is uninterested, preferring to enjoy her Korean comics and spending time with her friends buying stationery and Korean street food.

When they arrive in Huntsville, Robin realizes that her mother is there to visit a man she has been corresponding with. His family welcomes them, but Robin feels out of place since she can neither speak nor understand English. She dreams of returning to Korea when the vacation is over. However, Robin is in for a shocker as her mom announces that she’s marrying this man, and she and Robin are staying put in America. Her whole life changes forever, as she struggles to assimilate, while handling the ups and downs in her mother’s relationship.

What About Will

Published: September 14, 2021

Twelve-year-old Trace Reynolds has always looked up to his brother, mostly because Will, who’s five years older, has never looked down on him. It was Will who taught Trace to ride a bike, would watch sports on TV with him, and cheer him on at Little League. But when Will was knocked out cold during a football game, resulting in a brain injury–everything changed.

Now, seventeen months later, their family is still living under the weight of “the incident,” that left Will with a facial tic, depression, and an anger he cannot always control, culminating in their parents’ divorce. Afraid of further fracturing his family, Trace begins to cover for Will who, struggling with addiction to pain medication, becomes someone Trace doesn’t recognize. But when the brother he loves so much becomes more and more withdrawn, and escalates to stealing money and ditching school, Trace realizes some secrets cannot be kept if we ever hope to heal.

Something More

Published: June 6, 2023

Fifteen-year-old Jessie, a quirky loner obsessed with the nineties, is diagnosed as autistic just weeks before starting high school. Determined to make a fresh start and keep her diagnosis a secret, Jessie creates a list of goals that range from acquiring two distinct eyebrows to getting a magical first kiss and landing a spot in the school play. Within the halls of Holy Trinity High, she finds a world where things are no longer black and white and quickly learns that living in color is much more fun. But Jessie gets more than she bargained for when two very different boys steal her heart, forcing her to go off-script.

Truly Madly Royally

Published: July 30, 2019

Zora Emerson is not here to play. She’s enrolled in a prestigious summer program, and is ready to use what she’s learning to change the world (or at least her corner of New Jersey, for now). Zora’s not expecting to vibe with any of her super-privileged classmates. So she’s shocked to find she’s got chemistry with Owen Whittelsey, who is charming, funny, undeniably cute…and turns out to literally be a prince. As in, his parents are the king and queen of a small European country.  What?

This is a charming young adult novel featuring a positive representation of Black teens. There are also strong undercurrents of community outreach,  strong female friendships , and being true to oneself. If you’re a sucker for royal romances, this one will steal your heart. Perfect for readers ages 12+

Related :   65 Black Young Adult Novels to Add to Your TBR

Muddle School

Published: September 7, 2021

For every adolescent who’s ever believed they’re all alone in their misery, here’s a hilarious graphic novel about a new kid awkwardly trying to navigate the social pressures of making friends, dealing with crushes, avoiding bullies — a.k.a. middle school! Dave doesn’t have high hopes for himself on his first day at a new school in a new town called Muddle. But he has no idea just how bad things are going to be.

Getting knocked into a mud puddle by a trio of bullies. Having his secret crush revealed to the entire math class. And then that snot bubble … No, Dave is totally not killing it at Muddle School. He may just have to resign himself to dorkdom, content with drawing in his sketchbook to deal with life. But then Dave begins working on a time machine for the science fair and he gets a brilliant idea. What if he goes back in time to that first day of school?

What if he has a redo, and avoids doing all the dumb and embarrassing stuff he did? Could that turn everything around for him? Could Dave actually become … cool?

Related :  90 Best Middle Grade Books Releasing in Fall 2021

Piecing Me Together

Published: February 14, 2017

Jade believes she must get out of her poor neighborhood if she’s ever going to succeed. Her mother tells her to take advantage of every opportunity that comes her way. And Jade has: every day she rides the bus away from her friends and to the private school where she feels like an outsider, but where she has plenty of opportunities. But some  opportunities  she doesn’t really welcome, like an invitation to join Women to Women, a mentorship program for “at-risk” girls. Just because her mentor is black and graduated from the same high school doesn’t mean she understands where Jade is coming from. She’s tired of being singled out as someone who needs help, someone people want to fix. Jade wants to speak, to create, to express her joys and sorrows, her pain and her hope. Maybe there are some things she could show other women about understanding the world and finding ways to be real, to make a difference.

Published: January 1, 2017

Blade never asked for a life of the rich and famous. In fact, he’d give anything not to be the son of Rutherford Morrison, a washed-up rock star and drug addict with delusions of a comeback. Or to no longer be part of a family known most for lost potential, failure, and tragedy, including the loss of his mother. The one true light is his girlfriend, Chapel, but her parents have forbidden their relationship, assuming Blade will become just like his father.

In reality, the only thing Blade and Rutherford have in common is the music that lives inside them. And songwriting is all Blade has left after Rutherford, while drunk, crashes his high school graduation speech and effectively rips Chapel away forever. But when a long-held family secret comes to light, the music disappears. In its place is a letter, one that could bring Blade the freedom and love he’s been searching for, or leave him feeling even more adrift.

The Queens of New York

Best friends Jia Lee, Ariel Kim, and Everett Hoang are inseparable. But this summer, they won’t  be  together.

Everett, aspiring Broadway star, hopes to nab the lead role in an Ohio theater production, but soon realizes that talent and drive can only get her so far. Brainy Ariel is flying to San Francisco for a prestigious STEM scholarship, even though her heart is in South Korea, where her sister died last year. And stable, solid Jia will be home in Flushing, juggling her parents’ Chinatown restaurant, a cute new neighbor, and dreams for an uncertain future.

As the girls navigate heartbreaking surprises and shocking self-discoveries, they find that even though they’re physically apart, they are still mighty together.

Dress Coded

Published: July 7, 2020

Molly Frost is FED UP…

Because Olivia was yelled at for wearing a tank top.

Because Liza got dress coded and Molly didn’t, even though they were wearing the exact same outfit.

Because when Jessica was pulled over by the principal and missed a math quiz, her teacher gave her an F.

Because it’s impossible to find shorts that are longer than her fingertips.

Because girls’ bodies are not a distraction.

Because middle school is hard enough.

And so Molly starts a podcast where girls can tell their stories, and before long, her small rebellion swells into a revolution. Because now the girls are standing up for what’s right, and they’re not backing down.

How to Be a Girl in the World

Published: August 11, 2020

Lydia hasn’t felt comfortable in her own skin since the boys at her school started commenting on the way she looks in her uniform. Her cousin and friends think she should be flattered, but the boys—and sometimes her mom’s boyfriend, Jeremy—make Lydia uncomfortable and confused. Even more confusing is when Jeremy hovers too close and hugs a little too long.

Then her mom surprises her by buying a dilapidated house in their neighborhood. Lydia hopes to find a little bit of magic in their new home. But just like the adults in her life, and God, and her friends, the magic Lydia deeply believes in eventually loses its power to keep her safe.

And as seventh grade begins, Lydia wonders: Is there a secret to figuring out how to be a girl in the world?

Maybe He Just Likes You

Published: October 1, 2019

For seventh-grader Mila, it starts with some boys giving her an unwanted hug on the school blacktop. A few days later, at recess, one of the boys (and fellow trumpet player) Callum tells Mila it’s his birthday, and asks her for a “birthday hug.” He’s just being friendly, isn’t he? And how can she say no? But Callum’s hug lasts a few seconds too long, and feels…weird. According to her friend, Zara, Mila is being immature and overreacting. Doesn’t she know what flirting looks like?

But the boys don’t leave Mila alone. On the bus. In the halls. During band practice—the one place Mila could always escape.

It doesn’t feel like flirting—so what is it? Thanks to a chance meeting, Mila begins to find solace in a new place: karate class. Slowly, with the help of a fellow classmate, Mila learns how to stand her ground and how to respect others—and herself.

The Truth According to Blue

Published: May 12, 2020

Thirteen-year-old Blue Broen is on the hunt for a legendary ship of gold, lost centuries ago when her ancestors sailed to New York. Blue knows her overprotective parents won’t approve of her mission to find their family’s long-lost fortune, so she keeps it a secret from everyone except her constant companion, Otis, an 80-pound diabetic alert dog. But it’s hard to keep things quiet with rival treasure hunters on the loose, and with Blue’s reputation as the local poster child for a type 1 diabetes fundraiser.

Blue’s quest gets even harder when she’s forced to befriend Jules, the brainy but bratty daughter of a vacationing movie star who arrives on the scene and won’t leave Blue alone. While Blue initially resents getting stuck with this spoiled seventh grade stranger, Jules soon proves Blue’s not the only one who knows about secrets — and adventure.

Will Blue unravel a three hundred year-old family mystery, learn to stand up for herself, and find the missing treasure? Or is she destined to be nothing more than “diabetes girl” forever?

Goodbye Stranger

Published: August 4, 2015

Long ago, best friends Bridge, Emily, and Tab made a pact: no fighting. But it’s the start of seventh grade, and everything is changing. Emily’s new curves are attracting attention, and Tab is suddenly a member of the Human Rights Club. And then there’s Bridge. She’s started wearing cat ears and is the only one who’s still tempted to draw funny cartoons on her homework.   It’s also the beginning of seventh grade for Sherm Russo. He wonders: what does it mean to fall for a girl—as a friend?   By the time Valentine’s Day approaches, the girls have begun to question the bonds—and the limits—of friendship. Can they grow up without growing apart?

Published: April 18, 2023

When Jarrett J. Krosoczka was in high school, he was part of a program that sent students to be counselors at a camp for seriously ill kids and their families. Going into it, Jarrett was worried: Wouldn’t it be depressing, to be around kids facing such a serious struggle? Wouldn’t it be grim?

But instead of the shadow of death, Jarrett found something else at Camp Sunshine: the hope and determination that gets people through the most troubled of times. Not only was he subject to some of the usual rituals that come with being a camp counselor (wilderness challenges, spooky campfire stories, an extremely stinky mascot costume), but he also got a chance to meet some extraordinary kids facing extraordinary circumstances. He learned about the captivity of illness, for sure but he also learned about the freedom a safe space can bring.

Closer to Nowhere

Published: October 6, 2020

For the most part, Hannah’s life is just how she wants it. She has two supportive parents, she’s popular at school, and she’s been killing it at gymnastics. But when her cousin Cal moves in with her family, everything changes. Cal tells half-truths and tall tales, pranks Hannah constantly, and seems to be the reason her parents are fighting more and more. Nothing is how it used to be. She knows that Cal went through a lot after his mom died and she is trying to be patient, but most days Hannah just wishes Cal never moved in.

For his part, Cal is trying his hardest to fit in, but not everyone is as appreciative of his unique sense of humor and storytelling gifts as he is. Humor and stories might be his defense mechanism, but if Cal doesn’t let his walls down soon, he might push away the very people who are trying their best to love him.

Told in verse from the alternating perspectives of Hannah and Cal, this is a story of two cousins who are more alike than they realize and the family they both want to save.

Published: August 31, 2021

Four girls from different backgrounds are selected to become “The Flyers” for  Spread Your Wings Magazine . Elena is a shy Latina who lives in her best friend’s shadow and is uncomfortable about the pubescent changes in her body. Harlow is a Japanese-American wannabe journalist, Cailin, a young influencer, and Whitney, a Black fashionista who secretly has panic attacks. The girls spend a week in New York City together than bonds them as friends and gives them the courage to find their voices.

Friends Forever

Shannon is in eighth grade, and life is more complicated than ever. Everything keeps changing, her classmates are starting to date each other (but nobody wants to date her!), and no matter how hard she tries, Shannon can never seem to  just be happy .

As she works through her insecurities and undiagnosed depression, she worries about disappointing all the people who care about her. Is something wrong with her? Can she be the person everyone expects her to be? And who does she actually  want  to be?

With their signature humor, warmth, and insight, Shannon Hale and LeUyen Pham have crafted another incredible love letter to their younger selves and to readers everywhere, a reminder to us all that we are enough.

Sorry for Your Loss

Evie Walman is not obsessed with death. She does think about it a lot, though, but only because her family runs a Jewish funeral home. At twelve, Evie already knows she’s going to be a funeral director when she grows up. So what if the kids at school call her “corpse girl” and say she smells like death? They’re just mean and don’t get how important it is to have someone take care of things when your world is falling apart. Evie loves dusting caskets, polishing pews, and vacuuming the chapel―and on funeral days, she dresses up and hands out tissues and offers her condolences to mourners. She doesn’t normally help her parents with the grieving families directly, until one day when they ask her to help with Oren, a boy who was in a horrific car accident that killed both his parents. Oren refuses to speak and Evie, who is nursing her own private grief, is determined to find a way to help him deal with his loss.

Keeping It Real

Published: October 19, 2021

Keeping It Real  is Paula Chase’s latest upper middle grade offering. It follows Marigold Johnson, daughter of the media moguls who own Flexx Unlimited. Marigold’s friend and crush, Justice hates their private school where both kids are part of the token number of Black kids. Marigold on the other hand tries to conform to white expectations and fit in with the kids and both she and Justice quarrel about this regularly.

When Justice gets into Flexx Unlimited’s fashion program for teens, Marigold wants to get in as well to avoid summer boredom and spend time with Justice — despite warnings from both parents that she may not fit in with the other kids who are from lower income families. But when her parents get her into the program, one girl in particular, Kara can’t seem to stand Marigold. Add that to the tension between Marigold and Justice and Mari’s summer internship seems more stressful than inspiring.

The Unofficial Lola Bay Club

Sixth graders Iris and her best friend Leeza love singer Lola Bay. But after some mean girls take over their plan to start an official Lola Bay fan club, the girls befriend eighth-grader Dana, who says she’s starting an “unofficial” fan club.  Leeza quickly gets bored and finds other interests, while Iris is delighted to be friends with an older girl. But soon, Dana’s actions start to worry Iris. She keeps hacking into websites, then she uses Iris’s parents’ credit card to buy tour tickets! Can Iris find help before it’s too late?

Published: January 12, 2021

Alone  is Megan E. Freeman’s debut survival middle-grade novel in verse. It follows 12-year-old Maddie who gets abandoned by some twist of fate when her entire town is mysteriously evacuated. Left alone with no human in sight, she bonds with a Rottweiler named George who is one of many abandoned pets. Soon after, they lose power and then water and Maddie has to fend for herself using a variety of ingenious means and the town resources at her disposal, including an empty library, grocery store, neighbors’ homes — you get the picture.

Maddie is alone for months and has to safeguard herself from wild animals, terrible weather, and dangerous intruders, on top of the fear and loneliness of being all by herself.

I Know Your Secret

Published: December 7, 2021

The email arrives Sunday night:  Do exactly what I say, when I say it, or I will reveal your secret.

On Monday morning, seventh graders Owen, Gemma, Ally, and Todd, who have nothing in common and barely know each other, must work together and follow the instructions of an anonymous blackmailer. None of them want to go along with the blackmailer’s instructions, but each of them have a secret they must protect at all costs.

Set during a single day of school, the students race against the clock to complete a disquieting set of tasks, with fast-paced chapters detailing each moment of the day interspersed with a later interview-style recording made by the quartet.

Where We Used to Roam

Published: March 23, 2021

Where We Used to Roam  is Jenn Bishop’s fourth middle grade book! I had read two of her books before this one, and loved both! In this story, we meet Emma whose ordinary life is upended when her beloved older brother Austin develops an addiction to opioids. In the midst of her brother’s health issue, Emma is also dealing with a strained friendship with her BFF, Becca from whom she seems to be growing apart. So she is half-relieved when her parents send her off to Wyoming to be with family friends while they get Austin to a rehab facility.

In Wyoming, Emma becomes interested in bisons and makes a new friend with whom she shares more than she knows. She deals with her emotions about Austin’s addiction and her issues with Becca until an unexpected event cuts her trip short.

Related:  Jenn Bishop on Where We Used to Roam

The Shape of Thunder

The Shape of Thunder  follows two former best friends Quinn and Cora whose lives have been altered by a tragic event. Quinn’s brother Parker killed Cora’s sister in a school shooting. Understandably, this created a rift between both girls, even though they still deeply care for each other and have been friends since kindergarten. As they approach the first anniversary of the shooting, Quinn thinks she’s found a way to undo what happened and reaches out to Cora to work with her.

The story is told from alternating points of view (Quinn and Cora) as both girls try to figure out time travel, while processing the grief and trauma they both hold.

Related :  Jasmine Warga on The Shape of Thunder (+ Giveaway!)

This Time It’s Real

Published: February 7, 2023

When seventeen-year-old Eliza Lin’s essay about meeting the love of her life unexpectedly goes viral, her entire life changes overnight. Now she has the approval of her classmates at her new international school in Beijing, a career-launching internship opportunity at her favorite magazine…and a  massive  secret to keep.

Eliza made her essay up. She’s never been in a relationship before, let alone in love. All good writing is lying, right?

Desperate to hide the truth, Eliza strikes a deal with the famous actor in her class, the charming but aloof Caz Song. She’ll help him write his college applications if he poses as her boyfriend. Caz is a dream boyfriend — he passes handwritten notes to her in class, makes her little sister laugh, and takes her out on motorcycle rides to the best snack stalls around the city.

But when her relationship with Caz starts feeling a little  too  convincing, all of Eliza’s carefully laid plans are threatened. Can she still follow her dreams if it means breaking her own heart?

There they are: 60 of the best books for eighth graders! Yes, a few of these books are yet to be released, but they tackle serious issues like parental addiction and parental abuse. I’m getting through my ARCs of these books and I can tell you, they’re worth pre-ordering!

Have you read any of these books? Which of them would you recommend for your eighth graders? And which awesome books for eighth-graders would you add to this list?

More Book Lists

• The best  books for fifth graders
• My favorite  books for sixth graders
• The best  books for seventh graders

Pin This Post – The Best Books for Eighth Graders

Don't Forget to Share!

• About Afoma Umesi

Afoma Umesi is the founder and editor of Reading Middle Grade where she curates book lists and writes book reviews for kids of all ages. Her favorite genre to read is contemporary realistic fiction and she'll never say no to a graphic novel.

Related Posts

Afoma Umesi

FREE DOWNLOAD

Join My Friday Kidlit Newsletter

Sign up to receive weekly roundups, kidlit resources, and more! I'll send you my printable list of 100 best middle grade books to start!

Reader Interactions

What do you think leave a comment cancel reply.

December 29, 2020 at 3:56 pm

Next Great Jane is wonderful! And you know how I adore Refugee! 🙌

Join Reading Middle Grade on Instagram

Sharing the best middle grade (and adult) book recommendations @ whatafomareads

MOST SEARCHED

• Book Reviews
• Middle Grade Book Reviews
• Middle Grade Books
• Picture Books
• Book Lists By Grade
• Early Chapter Books
• Books for Teens

QUICK LINKS

• Book Lists by Age
• Books by Theme

LET’S CONNECT

• KidLit Facebook Group

Discover more from Reading Middle Grade

Subscribe now to keep reading and get access to the full archive.

Type your email…

Continue reading

You must be logged in to post a comment.

Best Books for 8th Graders

Uncover the best reading material for 8th graders with this list sourced from prominent book blogs and publications. these books have earned their place as top suggestions for young adults..

• Skip to primary navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar

Teaching Expertise

• Classroom Ideas
• Teacher’s Life
• Deals & Shopping
• Privacy Policy

83 Books For 8th Graders: Novel, Fiction, Non-Fiction, Drama, Narratives, And More

March 8, 2024 //  by  Lauren Du Plessis

It’s no secret that trying to motivate middle school students to read can be a tough challenge, even for the most experienced teacher. Thankfully, our collection of 83 carefully curated books for 8th graders will captivate even your most reluctant readers! These high-interest choices include everything from the classics to cozy mysteries and globe-trekking adventure stories. Your students are sure to find a winner! Read on to find the next 8th grade ‘bestseller’ for your classroom library!

1. The Boy in the Striped Pajamas by John Boyne

This powerful novel is reminiscent of The Diary of Anne Frank and grapples with the same tough issues. Despite the serious subject matter, your eighth graders will enjoy getting to know two young boys who become the most unsuspecting of friends in this moving novel set during the Holocaust. With a devastating end, this truly is a remarkably written book.

2. A Long Walk to Water by Linda Sue Park

A Long Walk to Water illustrates the lives of two Sudanese children. The novel sees Nya and Salva face many dangers in a feat to improve their lives and the lives of those around them. Your students will benefit from thought-provoking discussions that are sure to arise from this gripping story.

3. The Book Thief by Markus Zusak

Set in Nazi Germany, your kiddies will learn how Liesel Meminger, a foster child discovers a blissful world between the spines of books – away from constant bombing raids. Reading becomes her escape, and students will learn about its power to transport readers like Liesel to magical worlds.

4. The Giver by Lois Lowry

Your readers will be captivated by twelve-year-old Jonas who has his life turned upside down when he receives his life assignment – taking on the role of The Giver. After the world’s memories have been bestowed upon him, Jonas soon learns that his seemingly ideal world isn’t as wonderful as he once thought.

5. Shadow Jumper by J.M. Forster

For your eighth graders who love a mystery adventure story, Shadow Jumper is sure to be a winner! Jack Phillips is on a mission to find his missing scientist father, but will his rare allergic condition interfere with his search? Jump into the action to find out! 

6. The Outsiders by S.E. Hinton

The Outsiders is a powerful coming-of-age classic that is sure to be relatable to your 8th graders! Ponyboy and his gang of close-knit friends stand up to a gang of snooty rich kids in this timeless tale about bravery and friendship.

7. The Finest Hours by Michael J. Tougias & Casey Sherman

The true story of a shipwreck and dramatic rescue in The Finest Hours will captivate your non-fiction buffs! Explore the heart-rending tale of a shipwreck and the four brave men who managed to save the stranded sailors. Your students will also love comparing the book and movie versions of this harrowing story!

8. Long Way Down by Jason Reynolds

Long Way Down is the gripping story of fifteen-year-old Will who is grappling with the murder of his brother. This is a good choice for your readers ready to tackle the serious issue of gun violence. Journey with Will as he considers whether or not to avenge his brother’s death.

9. The Cruel Prince by Holly Black

The Cruel Prince is a wondrous book about a mortal girl who finds herself entangled in the tribulations of a mysterious and enchanted land, the High Court of Faerie. Your eighth graders will love following Jude as she battles the wicked Prince Cardan and fights to save her sisters.

10. I Am Not Your Perfect Mexican Daughter by Erika L. Sánchez

This New York Times Bestseller and National Book Award Finalist will grab the attention of your kids who enjoy stories about complex characters. After losing her seemingly perfect older sister, rambunctious Julia learns to navigate life outside of her sister’s shadow – all while uncovering shocking secrets about her sister’s past.

11. We’ll Always Have Summer by Jenny Han

The final book in ‘The Summer I Turned Pretty’ trilogy, We’ll Always Have Summer, continues the theme of young love and is perfect for eighth graders who enjoy a romantic read.  Will Conrad have the courage to tell Belly his feelings, or will he lose her to Jeremiah forever?

12. You Have a Match by Emma Lord

Your readers will love this wild ride with Abby who signs up for a DNA service and discovers that she has an Instagram-famous sister that she knew nothing about! Eager to know more, Abby decides to meet her sister, Savannah, at camp and uncover the secret of Savannah’s adoption.

13. We Are Not From Here by Jenny Torres Sanchez

The touching stories in We Are Not from Here are inspired by the experiences of migrants. Your readers ready for more serious issues will enjoy following the journey of three teens who escape the dangers of their hometowns only to face more challenges on their way to the US-Mexico border.

14. I’ll Give You the Sun by Jandy Nelson

For your eighth-grade readers who love stories that pull on the heartstrings, I’ll Give You the Sun is a humorous yet tear-jerking read. It follows the tale of two twins, Jude and Noah, who were once extremely close, but who have now been torn apart because of an unsuspected disaster.

15. Homecoming by Cynthia Voigt

Have your readers embark on the journey of a lifetime with the four Tillerman children after their mother abandons them in a Connecticut parking lot. Follow the children as they try to make their way to their Great Aunt Cilla’s house, but will they make it?

16. House of Hollow by Krystal Sutherland

For your readers who love the supernatural, this magical read stars the uniquely beautiful seventeen-year-old, Iris, who yearns to belong. When her sister, Grey, mysteriously goes missing, Iris and her other sister, Vivi, discover the secrets of their past and learn that not everything is as it seems.

17. Echo by Pam Muñoz Ryan

Echo is a well-crafted and heart-warming read that revolves around a harmonica, a prophecy, and a long-standing promise. Let your kiddos dive into this tale of finding friendship, overcoming life’s challenges, and pursuing your rightful destiny.

18. The Maze Runner by James Dashner

Your eighth-grade readers looking for adventure will love this heart-racing read about a group of memory-wiped strangers who must escape from the center of an ever-changing maze. Their only hope for survival is to devise a plan of escape after receiving a message that reads, ‘Remember. Survive. Run’. 

19. The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins

This gripping read inspired by a dystopian-like world is sure to be a hit with your class! The Hunger Games is an annual event held in a metropolis of wealth called the Capitol of Panem-. Twelve representatives from outlying districts fight to the death until only one victor remains.

20. Downriver by Will Hobbs

If your eighth graders love wild adventure stories, this read is sure to deliver! At Discovery Unlimited, an outdoor education program, seven teenagers borrow the company’s rafting gear and face nerve-wracking consequences as they make their way downriver and through the Grand Canyon. 

21. Anne Frank: The Diary of a Young Girl: The Definitive Edition by Anne Frank

For more serious eighth graders, The Diary of a Young Girl is Anne Frank’s account of living in a secret annex while hiding from the Gestapo. For two years, Anne and her family faced the fear of being found and the challenges of hunger and living so closely together.

22. A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L’Engle

Your kids will continue to be enthralled by this timeless classic about siblings on a quest to find their missing scientist father. Meg Murry and her brother Charles Wallace are joined by the most popular boy in high school as they explore new worlds and uncover their father’s whereabouts! 

23. The Breadwinner by Deborah Ellis

Let your readers discover the courage of 11-year-old Parvana in this story set during Taliban rule in Kabul, Afghanistan.  After her father is forced to stop working, Parvana saves her family by disguising herself as a boy so that she can work and become the family’s breadwinner! 

24. All the Bright Places by Jennifer Niven

All the Bright Places will remind your eighth graders of the beauty of life. This book tells the story of the chance encounter of two teenagers who meet on the ledge of a tower. Despite different outlooks on life, they fall in love while marveling at the adventure of life.

25. A Cuban Girl’s Guide to Tea and Tomorrow by Laura Taylor Namey

Send your readers on a transatlantic journey with this heartwarming read! When nothing goes right, Lila’s parents send her off to live in Winchester, England. She meets a teashop clerk named Orion Maxwell and begins to realize England might not be too bad after all. 

26. You Should See Me in a Crown by Leah Johnson

Striving to be accepted to the prestigious college of Pennington, there isn’t anything Liz Lighty won’t do to make her dream come true. In need of financial aid, she decides to run for prom queen in hopes of landing her school’s scholarship. Your readers will enjoy this spirited protagonist!  

27. Felix Ever After by Kacen Callender

Felix Ever After is a beautiful read about Felix and his journey to self-discovery and authentic identity. This coming-of-age story has a strong message that will inspire your eighth-grade readers to take a stand for themselves and never accept anything less than they deserve!

28. They Both Die at the End by Adam Silvera

With this title, your students are guaranteed to be curious! Mateo and Rufus wake up only to be told they only have one day to live. The author narrates a special day for these two strangers- who bond over trying to live their final 24 hours to the fullest!

29. Cemetery Boys by Aiden Thomas

Introduce your kids to Yadriel, a transgender high school student. Yadriel accidentally summons his ghost of a cousin, Julien, for help to share his true gender with his parents. As time goes on, the cousins become close, and eventually, Yadriel doesn’t want his cousin to leave.

30. The Henna Wars by Adiba Jaigirdar

With themes of friendship, identity, and courage, this book is sure to strike a chord with your kiddos. Flávia and Nishat must navigate their relationship in a way like never before. Nishat risks not being accepted by her family, but she must make a choice about whether to share her true feelings for Flávia.

31. Not My Problem by Ciara Smyth

Not My Problem will make your readers pause and consider their interactions with and influence on others. In this brilliant coming-of-age novel, Aideen helps fellow classmates solve their personal issues in unwitting ways, but she struggles to solve any of her own problems! 

32. The Voting Booth by Brandy Colbert

This novel is the perfect choice for your eighth graders who are passionate about social justice! When Duke Crenshaw is turned away at the voting booth, Marva Sheridan makes it her mission to ensure that Duke’s right to vote is upheld. On a path to help shape democracy, Duke and Marva find unexpected love.

33. Juliet Takes a Breath by Gabby Rivera

This is a novel that was written for your students who like to live life a little on the wild side! Juliet feels more alive and free than ever. After she comes out to her parents, she sets off for a summer of motorcycling, love, and partying while also finding a place for herself in the world.

34. Only Mostly Devastated by Sophie Gonzales

Told with humor, Only Mostly Devastated is a book for your eighth graders who would enjoy a story about a boy-meets-boy teenage romance. Will and Ollie must navigate the shaky waters of their relationship and learn to trust again. They’re sure to love this super relatable tale about the trials and tribulations of teenage life!

35. Perfect on Paper by Sophie Gonzales

Your students will love the drama of this super enjoyable read. Darcy secretly offers love advice to her classmates until her anonymity is threatened when the grade’s jock catches her collecting letters from a locker! She is then forced into helping him get back together with his girlfriend.

36. We Are Not Free by Traci Chee

This award-winning read will appeal to your readers interested in history and social justice. After their lives are forever changed by the mass U.S. incarcerations of World War II, fourteen teenagers rally together in a fight against injustice and blatant racism. In doing so, the teens become closer than ever as they create a community for themselves.

37. Hot Dog Girl by Jennifer Dugan

Hot Dog Girl spans both humor and romance and is sure to delight your readers! Elouise works as a hot dog girl at her local fair and finds herself pining over Nick the pirate. The only problem is that Nick has a girlfriend and hardly seems to notice poor Elouise!

38. With the Fire on High by Elizabeth Acevedo

This novel from acclaimed author Elizabeth Acevedo belongs in your eighth-grade library! Acevedo tells the story of a teenager who reclaims her power after having a child during her freshman year. Follow Emoni as she graduates, discovers a new passion for cooking, and becomes a chef!

39. The Poet X by Elizabeth Acevedo

Your kiddies are sure to relate to teenager, Xiomara, who has so much to get off her chest, but has no way to vent! To find a creative outlet, she decides to join the school’s poetry society but must keep this a secret from her rather strict Mami.

40. Internment by Samira Ahmed

Your readers will be intrigued and inspired by courageous seventeen-year-old Layla Amin who is forced into a Muslim-American internment camp with her parents. In a bid to fight for her freedom, she leads a revolt against the guards and the camp director.

41. Don’t Ask Me Where I’m From by Jennifer De Leon

Follow Liliana as she fights to stay true to herself amidst a world of wealthy privilege! Proud of her LatinX heritage, Liliana must be courageous as she grapples with the divide between her new suburban high school and the inner-city home of her Boston neighborhood. Your class will be rooting for her the whole way through this great read!

42. Let Me Hear a Rhyme by Tiffany D. Jackson

Transport your readers to 1998 Brooklyn! In this fantastic story, three teens plan to promote the rap music of their deceased friend by pretending he’s still alive. How long can this rambunctious group keep up their lie when tensions start brewing and secrets begin to be revealed?

43. Can’t Take That Away by Steven Salvatore

Passionate readers who fiercely support equal rights will find a friend in Carey Parker, the protagonist at the center of this tender yet powerful novel. Fed up with the discrimination faced at high school, this queer teen stands up for what is right and invites others to do the same!

44. The Sky Blues by Robbie Couch

Sky Baker plans to ask his crush, Ali, to prom in just 30 days at the annual beach party! Sky’s plans are ruined when a homophobic hacker releases an email detailing his plan. Your techies will be hooked as the next 30 days quickly turn into a mission to expose the hacker.

45. It Goes Like This by Miel Moreland

Your students will relate to the trials of friendship explored in this fantastic novel. Members of a queer pop band formed in middle school must reconcile with the past when a tragic storm in their hometown brings them together for one last show. Find out if their friendship will stand the test of time! 

46. Love & Other Natural Disasters by Misa Sugiura

Your eighth-grade rom-com fans will enjoy Love & Other Natural Disasters . In this queer romance, Nozomi is eager to pose as the girlfriend of gorgeous Willow. But not everything goes according to plan in this plot to make Willow’s ex jealous when Nozomi finds herself falling unexpectedly in love.

47. The Fascinators by Andrew Eliopulos

The Fascinators is sure to charm your kiddos with its magical plot! Despite living in a place that shuns magic, Sam, Delia, and James bond over their participation in the school’s magic club, but soon find that even magic can’t fix the obstacles they are about to face!  

48. House in the Cerulean Sea by T.J. Klune

Lovers of adventure stories will enjoy this fascinating tale about Linus, the caretaker of an orphanage who is summoned on a mission that will take him to a magical island. Your students will enjoy the twists and turns of Linus’s journey and appreciate the messages this novel offers its readers. 

49. The Marvelous by Claire Kann

Your gamers and readers alike will be thrilled by The Marvelous ! They’ll follow six teenagers who are gathered together by famed heiress, Jewel, in a competition to win a life-changing prize. The players quickly learn that more than money is at stake as they go head to head in a game spanning Jewel’s entire estate!

50. Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe by Benjamin Alire Sáenz

Your readers who are ready to tackle themes of identity, friendship, and family will soak up the beautiful story of Aristotle and Dante. These two lonely boys form an unforgettable friendship after meeting at a public swimming pool. This tale eloquently depicts the importance of friendship in discovering your own self.

51. Rules For Being a Girl by Candace Bushnell & Katie Cotugno

This empowering tale is all about Marin who reclaims her power after being sexually assaulted by her English teacher. When no one believes her story, she decides to take it to the school newspaper – an act that starts an inspiring feminist club! This read is perfect for your kids who are ready for a more sophisticated story.

52. The Inexplicable Logic of My Life by Benjamin Alire Sáenz

Sal, once a confident, secure teenager, is suddenly questioning everything about life, his identity, and his place in the world. Your students will connect with relatable, humorous, and comforting characters while journeying with Sal as he navigates the universal questions of life. 

53. The Infinite Noise by Lauren Shippen

Your eighth graders will be fascinated by star running back Caleb’s plight to navigate a  special ability allowing him to be extremely empathetic. Caleb’s empathy leads to a new friendship with his classmate, Adam, and the realization that his new ability to connect with others might also be dangerous. 

54. Me, Frida, and the Secret of the Peacock Ring by Angela Cervantes

Have your kiddies join Paloma Marquez on her search to connect with her late father and his Mexican roots. While traveling in Mexico, she relives her father’s memory and helps two siblings hunt for Frida Kahlo’s missing ring – a find that could lead to a reward and the adoration of all of Mexico!

55. Greenglass House by Kate Milford

This Edgar Award for Best Juvenile Mystery winner is perfect for your readers who love a cozy mystery. On a wintry night, Milo, the inn owner’s son, greets the arrival of guests who hold secrets about Greenglass House’s past. The story ends with a twist that is sure to leave your kiddos wanting more!

56. When You Trap a Tiger by Tae Keller

When Lily moves in with her sick grandmother, the family’s Korean folktales come to life. The magical tigers of the stories have a history with Lily’s grandmother and demand retribution for her past actions. Will Lily make a deal with the tiger or find another way to right the wrongs of the past? Let your 8th graders read to find out!

57 . Kira-Kira by Cynthia Kadohata

Kira-Kira is an excellent choice for drama lovers. Readers follow Katie Tekeshima and her sister, Lynn, as they move from a Japanese community in Iowa to the unfamiliar Deep South of Georgia. Your readers will be hooked as the family navigates difficulties and finds hope in the future through the idea of ‘glittering’ or kira-kira.  

58. Ancestor Approved: Intertribal Stories for Kids by Cynthia Leitich Smith

Your kiddos will love this book all about the strength of community and Native pride. This collection of unique stories highlights the experiences of young Native people from the perspective of new and established First Nation writers. The stories take root at a large Michigan powwow where Native families gather to celebrate their heritage and honor their traditions. 

59. No Fixed Address by Susin Nielsen

Dive into this powerful story about poverty, homelessness, and family life with your class. No Fixed Address is a story about Felix, a teenager living out of a car with his mom who enters a game show competition to win a cash prize. This novel is perfect for a read-aloud that is guaranteed to lead to rich discussions.

60. Girl of the Southern Sea by Michelle Kadarusman

Girl of the Southern Sea is the choice for those longing for an adventurous and faraway setting. Your readers will meet Nia who dreams of a life beyond the slums of Jakarta. She devises a plan to change her circumstances, but how will she reach her dreams while facing ongoing obstacles? 

61. As Long as the Lemon Trees Grow by Zoulfa Katouh

This novel is a moving story about a teenager living and working in war-torn Syria. Her choice of whether to stay or flee for a new chance at life elsewhere is made all the more difficult when Khawf – the physical manifestation of her fears – adds pressure to her decision.

62. The Bridge Home by Padma Venkatraman

Let your students follow the inspirational story of sisters, Viji and Rukuu, who escape from an abusive father. While their new, temporary home under a bridge is not easy, it provides the sisters with new relationships, independence, and the confidence that they can care for themselves and each other.

63. Julie of the Wolves by Jean Craighead George

When Julie’s family life becomes untenable, she leaves her Alaskan village in search of better things. However, when she becomes lost in the icy tundra, she has to rely on a curious wolf pack to survive. Julie of the Wolves is an excellent addition to your middle school classroom for your readers who love survival stories!

64. Out of My Mind by Sharon M. Draper

Out of My Mind is a classic coming-of-age story that is sure to resonate with your kiddies. They’ll follow the story of a brilliant young girl with a photographic memory who is also navigating preteen life with cerebral palsy. Her world dramatically changes when she acquires a machine that helps her express her complex thoughts and feelings to her family and friends.

65. Counting by 7s by Holly Goldberg Sloan

Have your more serious readers, check out Counting by 7s ! It’s an emotional but uplifting read about a young girl who quiets her anxious mind through routines like counting by 7s. When she loses her parents, she must face her fears and learn to form connections with others.

66. Look Both Ways by Jason Reynolds

Look Both Ways consists of ten short stories that diverge to detail the lives of individual teenagers and converge again upon a sudden shared experience (a falling school bus!). Add this novel to your eighth-grade reading list to inject a little humor into your reading time!

67. Goodbye Stranger by Rebecca Stead

Let your kids lose themselves in this bestselling commentary on the growing pains of preteen friendship. Bridge, Emily, and Tab must learn to navigate the new stresses of seventh grade, with personal traumas, budding romances, and strained loyalties that are all battling to take precedence over their friendship.

68. Queen of the Tiles by Hanna Alkaf

Who knew Scrabble could be this tense? In this teen thriller that’s centered around a Scrabble competition, Najwa Bakri is mourning the death of her best friend. But when her friend’s Instagram suddenly begins posting again, Najwa begins to wonder if her friend’s death may not have been an accident.

69. A Break with Charity: A Story about the Salem Witch Trials by Ann Rinaldi

This is the perfect choice for your historical fiction lovers! A Break with Charity is a compelling read about the time of the Salem Witch Trials. The main character, Susanna, has to determine how to protect her own family from the lies and accusations being thrown around. It’s a “must-have” for your eighth-grade reading list!

70. The Rig by Joe Ducie

Will is a highly intelligent but troubled young man whose criminal activities have landed him on the Rig, a high-security facility that is supposedly impossible to escape. Supernatural elements soon come into play in this science fiction book as the true nature of the prison is revealed. Your 8th graders will love this interesting and mysterious read!

71. A Series of Unfortunate Events by Lemony Snicket

This series may not be the most challenging for your 8th graders, but A Series of Unfortunate Events is a captivating tale certain to pique the interest of even the most reluctant readers. Follow the unlucky adventures of three orphaned siblings as they search for answers about their parents’ untimely and suspicious deaths. 

72. Mortal Instruments by Cassandra Clare

Jump into these thrilling fantasy offerings from Cassandra Clare! In this gripping series, Clary enters an alternate world of mythical creatures in order to find her missing mom. She’s soon pulled deep into the drama of this mysterious place, linking up with the warrior Shadowhunters and fighting against demons who want her eliminated.

73. The Fifth Wave by Rick Yancey

Introduce your kiddos to Cassie, in this dystopian novel of survival. She is one of the few remaining humans on planet Earth after apocalyptic waves of destruction wreak havoc on Earth and dangerous beings arrive to wipe out humanity. When she meets Evan, another survivor, she must decide whether to take a new chance at life by learning to trust others again.

74. Mistborn by Brandon Sanderson

The first book in a fantasy trilogy follows the escapades of Kelsier, a rebel who fights against a tyrannical ruler in a kingdom perpetually full of ash. Magical metals, compelling characters, and vivid imagery make this novel and series a favorite among YA fantasy readers. They’ll love the fact that there are another two books waiting for them once they’ve finished this first read!

75. The Selection by Kiera Cass

This YA romance series follows the Bachelor-esque “Selection,” where 35 girls compete for a chance at love with Prince Maxon. Contestant America, however, wishes that she had never been selected; that is until she actually meets the prince! This dramatic series is perfect for any of your readers who love a bit of fairy tale and romance!

76. Entwined by Heather Dixon

Based on Grimm’s Fairytale of the “Twelve Dancing Princesses,” Entwined follows Azalea, whose family tragedy spurs a deal with the mysterious Keeper. When Keeper’s promise turns out to be a trap, Azalea must find a way to save her family. This is perfect for your 8th graders who love fantasy!

77. Uglies by Scott Westerfeld

Use this post-apocalyptic series to explore themes of vanity and loyalty with your class. Tally is set to undergo a mandatory surgery to turn her into a “Pretty” on her 16th birthday when she discovers that there is more behind the surgery than aesthetics.

78. Tuck Everlasting by Natalie Babbit

Tuck Everlasting is definitely one to add to your middle-grade book lists! Winnie must decide whether to live life as a mere mortal or join the Tucks, who have found immortality in a magical nearby spring. This heartwarming tale is sure to be one that your kids will love!

79. Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen

Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice will stretch your advanced readers’ minds by exposing them to the twists and turns of classic literature. This novel also provides an opportunity for your kiddos to compare a classic version of Elizabeth and Darcy’s epic love story with contemporary retellings. 

80. Slider by Pete Hautman

Slider is a coming-of-age story about David, a 14-year-old caught in a serious bind! When an accidental credit card charge sets in motion a series of events involving a competitive eating competition, he must win the grand prize. This humorous and touching novel will delight your readers.  

81. A First Time for Everything by Dan Santat

Your class will love this sweet novel detailing the life and middle school trials of Dan, an awkward but quintessential ‘good kid’, that is based on the author’s own experiences. Thrust from his comfortable family life to a class trip to Europe where he is on his own, Dan experiences several life-changing “firsts”. 

82. A Tree Grows in Brooklyn

A Tree Grows in Brooklyn is a delightful and beautifully written story about a family’s day-to-day life in a NYC borough. From the beginning of this novel and through every dramatic turn, Francie’s determination and wit make her a lovable character that your readers will champion.

83. Anne of Green Gables

Anne of Green Gables is a timeless classic, yet even your contemporary readers will adore the spunk and tenacity of the protagonist, Anne. On a deeper level, this book explores the themes of belonging, friendship, and the quest to find oneself amidst the throes of young adulthood. 

Instill a love for reading in your 8th grade students by encouraging independent reading. Reading allows children to learn about the experiences of others and therefore foster better empathy. Furthermore, they gain valuable knowledge and expand their vocabulary as well as explore more imaginative and creative thought patterns.

50 Must-Read​ Books for Eighth Graders

by AuthorAmy

Welcome to Amy’s Bookshelf! Here, teachers will find carefully curated book lists for each grade level from kindergarten to twelfth grade. Moving forward, new lists filled with book recommendations will be published weekly. Sometimes, these lists will be organized around a specific theme, like a holiday or seasonal event. Other times, they will feature rockstar books – books practically guaranteed to get your students reading. 

Before jumping into reading recommendations, a few words about how books are selected.

First, it is so important that teachers prioritize reading interest over reading level. Students will often choose to read well above or below their reading level if they are particularly interested in a book or topic. Teachers only hurt students by limiting them to a specific selection of titles grouped according to an arbitrary number or level. Think of the books on these lists as starting places for you and your students, but if a student wants to read up (or down), that is a-ok.

Also, please note that these lists lean heavily toward modern selections as opposed to the classics many teachers are familiar with. A true renaissance is happening in children’s literature today, and the books coming out are truly exciting. One of the factors that makes this such an exciting time for kid lit is how diverse the selections are in terms of genre, characters and subject matter. These lists will feature fiction and nonfiction selection as well as graphic novels, novels written in verse, and more.

Any book list or classroom library worth its salt includes books featuring LGBTQIA+ characters, racially diverse characters, characters with disabilities, characters in the foster care system, characters from a wide variety of socioeconomic and religious backgrounds, and so on. Importantly, the diversity of the characters doesn’t always need to be the focus of the literature – in other words, a book featuring a black character or gay character doesn’t need to be about those individuals exploring their blackness or their gayness; those characters can have kid problems that apply to all children regardless of their race or sexual orientation. Similarly, students should be encouraged to read stories featuring people of diversity all year long – not just during a month set aside to celebrate a specific heritage.

One final note: today’s children’s literature does not shy away from frank discussions of gender, race, sex, sexuality, abuse, mental illness, and more – nor should it. I will not censor books from these lists based on these controversial areas. What books you recommend will depend on the specific district you work in and your clientele. I encourage you and your students to read widely without fear.

Eighth Grade

Eighth grade students are on the cusp of high school, so the books on this list are reflective of their level of increasing maturity. Many of the books on this list are appropriate for middle school and high school students.

Just so you know, Bored Teachers may get a small share of the sales made through the Amazon affiliate links on this page.

by Alan Gratz

Refugee is one of those “everyone must read this book” books. It span ages and is equally powerful as a middle school or high school text. This is the journey of three children, all refugees, fleeing from a terror regime. Josef lives in Germany and flees from the Nazis with his family; Isabel tries to escape Cuba for American shores, and Mahmoud is a modern-day Syrian refugee. Though they are from different times in history, their stories intersect in surprising ways. 

2. Ready Player One

by Ernest Cline

In a dystopian world where the economy has crashed, people around the world log into the Oasis, a virtual reality platform. The creator of the Oasis, an eccentric billionaire, has died and left his fortune buried somewhere within the game. This story follows teenager Wade as he gets closer and closer to the treasure, a dangerous game when so many want what he is close to having. 

3. Journey by Aaron Becker

This is a wordless picture book that is about a girl who, using a magic marker, draws herself an escape from the ordinary into the extraordinary. It’s sort of a Harold’s Purple Crayon for adolescents and adults, with a more nuanced story and theme. 

4. Peter and the Starcatchers

by Dave Barry and Ridley Pearson

Humor authors Dave Barry and Ridley Pearson imagine an origin story for Peter Pan. How did Peter end up in Neverland and what happened to his parents? Why is Hook afraid of crocodiles? Where did Tinkerbell come from, and who are the lost boys? All these questions and more are answered, and this book is both a page-turner and laugh-out-loud funny. 

5. Keeper of the Night

by Kimberley Willis Holt

Keeper of the Night takes place in Guam, and the story is richly populated with details enough to make the reader feel like they’ve stepped into Isabel’s world. Isabel’s mother has died, leaving her family reeling. Isabel wants to piece her family back together, and this is the story of how she does so. 

6. The Graveyard Book

by Neil Gaiman

Nobody Owens, or Bod, is a toddler who inadvertently escapes from Jack, who murders his family. Bod winds up in the local graveyard and is raised by ghosts. When Bod reaches adolscence, however, he wants to stretch his legs and explore away from his ghost family, a proposition that could prove very dangerous to him, indeed. 

7. Science Verse

by Jon Scieszka and Lane Smith

Science is delivered here in raucous poetic form. The author and illustrator combine to create an inna t e dance through science, from the food chain to the creation of a black hole. 

8. Moonshot

by Brian Floca

Moonshot is Brian Floca’s retelling of the Apollo 11 moon landing in picture book form. Floca is well-known for creating picture books about the machines that humans take journeys in, and as with his other works, this one is marvelous. 

9. Al Capone Does My Shirts

by Gennifer Choldenko

Moose Flanagan lives on Alcatraz in the 1930s, when the prison housed the likes of Al Capone. Moose is one of 23 children living on the island because their parents work as prison guards or cooks or doctors. The kids get into all sorts of trouble on the small island, and this is a highly engaging story about those anctics. There are three other Alcatraz books after this one. 

10. Flying Lessons and Other Stories

edited by Ellen Oh

This short story collection is a compendium of stories from today’s top teen authors, and there’s something for everyone, including a short story in verse. 

11. Touching Spirit Bear

by Ben Mikaelsen

Instead of going to juvey, Cole Matthews is sent to the remote, Alaskan Circle Justice, a rehabilitation program for juvenile offenders like himself. Cole is attacked by a white bear, what is sometimes called a spirit bear, and left for dead. The attack changes Cole’s outlook and this is ultimately a story of redemption. 

12. Some Writer! The Story of E.B. White

by Melissa Sweet

American icon E.B. White is perhaps best known for Charlotte’s Web, but he was a prolific writer who wrote essays, contributed to the New Yorker, and published many other children’s books, too. This book is a lengthier picture book biography of White that includes many letters and other family artifacts that give readers an insight into this iconic American writer. 

13. Calling All Minds: How to Think and Create Like an Inventor

by Temple Grandin

Temple Grandin, the renowned spokesperson for autism, shares her insight into the various ways a person can solve a problem. The message of this book is that there is more than one way to look at the world, to think about things, to use your imagination and to arrive at a new idea. Grandin does this by looking at inventions and the thought process behind them.

14. The Night Diary

by Veera Hiranandani

Nisha watches her home country of India divide into India and Pakistan in 1947, and suddenly, Muslims and Hindus are being killed crossing the new border. Nisha’s family decides they, too, must cross, and she fears for her life during the long journey. 

15. Zen Shorts

by Jon J. Muth

A giant panda moves into the neighborhood and begins telling children ancient Zen tales in this picture book. Author/illustrator Jon Muth followed up the popular Zen Shorts with a number of other Zen tales (including Zen Ghosts and Zen Ties ) which are all worth reading. 

16. Bound by Ice

by Sandra Neil Wallace and Rich Wallace

The ship Jeannette sets sail for the Arctic from San Francisco, looking for a route to the North Pole. The ship becomes locked inside Arctic ice and sinks after two years adrift. The crew escape on lifeboats and make a harrowing journey back to civilization that not all survice. 

17. Super Women: Six Scientists Who Changed the World

by Laurie Lawlor

Six mini biographies are included in this book. Each paints a portrait of a lesser-known woman scientist who relentlessly pursued her studies despite obstacles in her path, many of which were gender-based. The biographies are accompanied by photographs, and the whole package is an engaging read. 

18. Out of Wonder: Poems Celebrating Poets

by Kwame Alexander, Chris Colderley, and Marjory Wentworth

Three of today’s well-known poets, Kwame Alexander, Chris Colderley and Marjory Wentworth, write poems in honor of their favorite poets. 

19. Stormy Seas: Stories of young boat refugees

by Mary Beth Leatherdale and Eleanor Shakespeare

Contrasted with Refugee , at the start of this list, this book is a collection of five true stories about refugees who boarded a boat in search of a better life. Many infographics are included alongside the stories with more historical informatin. 

20. Strong Inside

(Young Readers Edition) by Andrew Maraniss

Perry Wallace was the first black man to play college basketball in the Southeastern Conference. He accepted an offer to play ball at Vanderbilt and crossed into a world where hatred and racism were deeply entrenched. This is his story. 

21. The Magician and the Spirits: Harry Houdini

by Deborah Noyes

Harry Houdini, in addition to being a magician and stage performer, had a fascination for the occult. He spent much time investigating whether or not accounts of contact with “the other side” were real or just stage illusions like his own. 

22. Ender’s Game

by Orson Scott Card

Set in the near future, the earth has been attacked by aliens called buggers. The earth must mount a resistance force before the aliens come back, and the military turns to elite child genuises. Andrew “Ender” Wiggin is the best of the best and he is taken from his family and trained to be the military general that will lead the fight against the aliens. 

23. The Hobbit

by J.R.R. Tolkien

A band of dwarves plus the unlikely companion of hobbit Bilbo Baggins set out to steal back treasure from the dangerous dragon Smaug. This classic novel is a prequel to the longer Lord of the Rings trilogy. 

24. Better Nate Than Ever

by Tim Federle

Nate Foster wants to star in a broadway show more than he wants anything else in life, but he knows he will never get close if he remains in his homestate of Pennslyvania. He learns that there is an open casting call for a musical and makes a daring trip to New York City to be there for it. 

25. Not your Sidekick by C.B. Lee

Jessica’s parents are superheroes, but Jessica is not. She just wants to get an internship to help her get into a good college. The internship she ends up getting is in the employ of her parents’ arch enemies but allows Jessica to work alongside Abby, who she has a secret crush on. 

26. The Evolution of Calpurnia Tate

by Jacqueline Kelly

Calpurnia’s grandfather is a naturalist, and the two of them bond when she asks him some scientific questions about grasshoppers. Their relationship grows, as does Calpurnia’s interest in science. 

27. The House of the Scorpion

by Nancy Farmer

Matt is a clone of El Patrón, who divided his cells in a test tube and then placed his developing embroyo in the uterus of a cow. The world sees Matt as an abomination but Matt didn’t ask to be created, and now that he’s here, he’s grappling with his identity and navigating the dangerous world occupied by El Patrón.

28. Enchanted Air: Two Cultures, Two Wings: A Memoir

by Margarita Engle

Margarita lives in Los Angeles, except when she lives in Cuba during the summer with her mother. Margarita loves Cuba and lives for those summer months. But the United States is trapped in the Cold War, and when Cuba becomes a central part of the conflict, Margarita’s two sides are suddenly at war. 

29. Forget Me Not

by Ellie Terry

Calliope has never felt like she fits in, which is perhaps why she turns to the night skies. She loves astronomy, and the stars do not judge her for having Tourettes like the kids at school do. It’s only when Calliope’s mom moves her to another new school that she finally starts to make friends. 

30. The Outsiders

by S.E. Hinton

It’s the Socs versus the Greasers in this iconic novel about Ponyboy and his buddies. The boys live on the outskirts of society and sometimes scuffles break out between the two groups. One night, things go too far. 

31. The Earth, My Butt, and Other Big Round Things

by Carolyn Mackler

Virginia is a plus-sized teenager, which makes everything about being a teenager harder. She feels pathetic next to her perfect family, especially her perfect brother. But then a serious accusation is levied against her brother, and the family’s world is rocked to its core. 

32. Monster by Walter Dean Myers

Steve Harmon is 16 and is being tried for murder after he was the lookout in the shooting of a drugstore owner. Steve, prior to the murder trial, was an amateur filmmaker so he transcribes his experiences, and Monster is the result. 

33. Lucky Broken Girl

by Ruth Behar

Ruthie Mizrahi’s family has moved to the United States from Cuba. Here, she suffers a horrific accident that leaves her in a full body cast for an entire year. Because Ruthie can’t move, the book is mostly her inner monologue, which grows over the bedridden year.

34. The First Rule of Punk

by Celia C. Perez

Malú learns the first rule of punk from her dad, and it’s “be yourself.” Which is all fine until Malú colossally messes up her first day of school. She decides to try her dad’s advice and assembles a punk band of misfits, finding herself along the way. 

35. Breakout

by Kate Messner

Nora’s summer vacation plans are majorly messed up when the nearby prison experiences a high-profile prison break. Suddenly, the neighborhood is on house arrest. This is a multi-genre novel told in many formats including comics, poems, and letters. 

36. Flowers for Algernon

by Daniel Keyes

Algernon is a lab mouse who has undergone surgery to increase his IQ, and soon this surgery is applied to Charlie Gordon. The operation successfully increases Charlie’s intelligence, but only temporarily, and he is forced to watch himself regress.  It’s a book both heartbreaking and important. 

37. The Alchemist: The Secrets of the Immortal Nicholas Flamel

by Michael Scott

This is the first in a six-book fantasy series. This particular installment is about Nicholas Flamel, the famed alychemist. Legend has it, he did not die in 1418, as his tomb states, but that he lives on today making the elixir that keeps him immortal. But when a modern day villian sets out to steal Flamel’s magic book, two kids step in to stop him. 

38. The Westing Game

by Ellen Raskin

Millionaire Samuel W. Westing dies at the beginning of the book and the tenants in his building are named as heirs in his will. The tenants are paired off and told the first team to solve the puzzle contained in the will will inherit Westing’s entire fortune. 

39. A Monster Calls

by Patrick Ness

At the beginning of the book, protagonist Conor is fighting a number of monsters – bullies at school, a monster in his nightmares, and the grief associated with an ill family member. Then a real monster shows up and Conor is forced to face some truths within himself. 

40. Fallen Angels

by Walter Dean Myers

Perry volunteers for the Vietnam War, and he is sent to the front lines where he must face the horrors of war. 

41. When You Reach Me

by Rebecca Stead

Miranda receives mysterious notes that predict the future. So, when the notes instruct her to write a letter, she feels she must do as she is told. There is a nice mystery woven in, and some time travel to boot. 

42. Mortal Engines

by Philip Reeve

In this fascinating and creative futuristic world, cities have been turned into rolling behemoths that hunt down and tear apart other cities. This is the first book in a four-part series. There is lots of world-building and some excellent character development. 

43. The Book of Boy

by Catherine Gilbert Murdock

A protagonist known as Boy is bullied for his hump and so spends his time along in the woods communing with the animals. He is found by a man named Secondus who hires Boy as a servant. Secondus has a mission, which involves thieving ancient relics with Boy’s help. 

44. Willa of the Wood

by Robert Beatty

Willa is a night spirit, and she hates humans for the havoc the wreak on nature. She steals from humans as revenge, but one day winds up hurt, leaving her vulnerable during daylight hours. 

45. Grenade

Grenade is the story of two young men. Hideki, who is in the Japanese army during WWII, and Ray, an American soldier in Japan. The two collide with orders to kill each other and they each must make a choice. 

46. Olivia Twist

by Lorie Langdon

In this spin on Oliver Twist, Olivia is raised among Long street thieves until her uncle takes her into high society after a thieving episode goes wrong. But even though she is allowed to live a life of comfort, she cannot forget the London orphans and so sneaks away to offer her help. 

47. The Seventh Most Important Thing

by Shelley Pearsall

Arthur finds himself facing a judge after he threw a brick at a garbage truck and hit the Junk Man in the arm. The Junk Man offers to let Arthur do community service with him, who sets Arthur to combing through trash searching for a list of seven important things. 

48. The Thing About Jellyfish

by Ali Benjamin

Suzy’s best friend dies in a drowning accident, but Suzy is convinced the accident was caused by a jellyfish sting. In her grief, she retreats into her imagination and comes up with a plan to prove her theory correct. 

49. Summer of the Gypsy Moths

by Sara Pennypacker

Aunt Louise has taken in her niece Stella, and Stella loves living with her aunt. Until that is, Louise opens her home to another foster child, Angel, who Stella does not get along with. Aunt Louise dies and the two girls decide not to tell anyone. 

50. Lily and Dunkin by Donna Gephart

Lily and Dunkin are both dealing with heavy situations. Lily was born a boy but knows she’s a girl, whereas Dunkin has bipolar disorder. The two become friends and help each other cope. 

Other book lists from Amy’s bookshelf you’ll love: 

• 50 Must-Read Books for Kindergarteners
• 50 Must-Read Books For First Graders
• 50 Must-Read Books for Second Graders
• 50 Must-Read Books For Third Graders
• 50 Must-Read Books for Fourth Graders
• 50 Must-Read Books For Fifth Graders
• 50 Must-Read Books For Sixth Graders
• 50 Must-Read Books for Seventh Graders

TREAT YO' INBOX!

All the trending teacher stories, resources, videos, memes, podcasts, deals, and the laughter you need in your life!

• Grades 6-12
• School Leaders

Get our FREE 'Meet the Teacher' bundle!

15 Books To Help Introduce Readers of All Ages to Harriet Tubman

Bring the inspiring abolitionist to life for students.

Born into slavery, Harriet Tubman made a harrowing journey North, but her own emancipation wasn’t enough for her. She knew she had to help other enslaved people be free. Tubman went on to serve as a conductor on the Underground Railroad, plus work as a Union spy, a nurse, and a supporter of the women’s suffrage movement. These Harriet Tubman books offer deeper insights into her life for every level of reader.

(Just a heads up, WeAreTeachers may collect a share of sales from the links on this page.)

Harriet Tubman Books for Kids

1. moses: when harriet tubman led her people to freedom , by carol boston weatherford.

This Caldecott Honor Book and Coretta Scott King award-winning picture book combines lyrical text with gorgeous illustrations to tell Tubman’s story. It recounts how she heard the word of God telling her to seek freedom, then made 19 more trips to help her fellow enslaved people make the same journey.

2. Harriet Tubman: Conductor on the Underground Railroad , by Ann Petry

The late Ann Petry was a reporter, activist, pharmacist, and teacher and best known for writing The Street . It was the first book by a Black female author to sell more than a million copies. Her middle-grade Harriet Tubman biography is just as accessible and compelling. It also features a foreward by National Book Award finalist Jason Reynolds.

3. Harriet Tubman: The Road to Freedom , by Catherine Clinton

Documentation of Tubman’s work as an Underground Railroad conductor is sparse, but Clinton is able to piece together one of the deepest portraits of her life. She also paints a detailed picture of the era, including depictions of the horrors of enslaved life as well as introductions to other abolitionists who are less well-known.

4. Who Was Harriet Tubman? , by Yona Zeldis McDonough

Part of the Who Was? series of biographies aimed at kids 8 to 12, this volume for the school-age set does a good job of introducing kids to Tubman’s life and times. It’s a good starting biography for more reluctant readers.

5. The Story of Harriet Tubman: A Biography Book for New Readers , by Christine Platt

Part of The Story Of: series of books (another biography series geared toward early independent readers), this book incorporates full-color illustrations and informational graphics to present children with a comprehensive picture of American slavery and the Civil War era.

6. National Geographic Readers: Harriet Tubman , by Barbara Kramer

The National Geographic brings its excellent reputation to this Harriet Tubman biography for the youngest independent readers (ages 5 to 8). With colorful photographs, illustrations, and informational graphics, this book is a great introduction to Tubman’s life story.

7. The Story of Harriet Tubman: Conductor of the Underground Railroad , by Kate McMullan

First published in 1990, this biography geared for readers in 3rd to 6th grades is still a top pick. McMullen’s thorough but accessible text details how Tubman helped free more than 300 enslaved people as a conductor. It also sheds more light on her work as a nurse, scout, and spy for the Union Army.

8. I Am Harriet Tubman , by Brad Meltzer

This picture book biography is part of Meltzer’s Ordinary People Change the World series , which have been made into a PBS Kids show. Eye-catching illustrations and a handy timeline give kids plenty to pore over and discuss.

9. Freedom Train: The Story of Harriet Tubman , by Dorothy Sterling

Published in 1987, this is one of the most popular Harriet Tubman books, thanks to Sterling’s excellent research and compelling narrative. The novelistic portrayal of Tubman’s life weaves in dialogue and historical, spiritual songs passed down through generations of enslaved people to provide a gripping portrayal of Tubman’s life and times.

10. She Came to Slay: The Life and Times of Harriet Tubman , by Erica Armstrong Dunbar

National Book Award finalist Dunbar’s modern and engaging look at Tubman’s life is a must-have for older readers. Featuring illustrations, photos (notably beyond the ones most often seen), and informational graphics, readers will get a lot out of this book even in a quick flip-through.

11. Aunt Harriet’s Underground Railroad in the Sky , by Faith Ringgold

Award-winning author and illustrator Ringgold brings back her character Cassie (from the picture book Tar Beach ) to tell the story of Tubman and the Underground Railroad. The book shines with gorgeous artwork and the author’s commitment to pulling no punches when it comes to talking about the atrocities of slavery.

12. The Underground Abductor: An Abolitionist Tale about Harriet Tubman , by Nathan Hale

Tubman and the Underground Railroad get the graphic novel treatment as the fifth entry in Hale’s Hazardous Tales series . Like the rest of his collection, Tubman’s story is presented as a comic-book style, complete with danger, comedy, and eye-catching artwork. Tween readers who respond to visual storytelling will get a lot out of this, plus a helpful bibliography of other related works.

13. Little People, Big Dreams: Harriet Tubman , by Maria Isabel Sánchez Vegara

By no means a full account of her life, this preschool-geared Harriet Tubman biography is a great starting point for the youngest learners to get a sense of her amazing life and brave expeditions.

14. What Was the Underground Railroad? , by Yona Zeldis McDonough

Though not ostensibly about Harriet Tubman, this book’s roundup of stories about “passengers” on the Underground Railroad (which was neither underground nor a railroad) provides a helpful primer for kids interested in learning more about the work for which Tubman is most famous.

15. Before She Was Harriet , by Lesa Cline-Ransome

This multi-award-winning picture book combines gorgeous poetry and stunning watercolor illustrations to tell the story of Tubman’s life. It begins with her as an old woman, traveling backward in time to visit herself in the many roles she played throughout history.

Looking for more inspiring books to share with your students? Check out our list of Martin Luther King Jr. books for all ages.

And subscribe to our newsletter so you can get all our latest book picks..

You Might Also Like

What Is Orthographic Mapping? A Guide for Educators and Families

It's a need-to-know concept for anyone helping kids learn to read. Continue Reading

Copyright © 2024. All rights reserved. 5335 Gate Parkway, Jacksonville, FL 32256

• Homeschool 101
• Plan and Organize
• Grade Levels
• All Categories

Christian Biographies for Young Readers: Our Favorite Recommendations

At Sonlight, we believe that reading should not be just educational, but transformational. With this goal in mind, we include our favorite Christian biographies for young readers at most levels of our curriculum . We believe that these carefully selected books will serve to both inform and inspire both you and your children in unexpected ways. Keep reading to learn why we think Christian biographies are among the best reading choices for your children.

Why Should Children Read Christian Biographies?

A great life story can be life-changing and inspiring. While history and reading are central to all Sonlight curriculum levels, we include different kinds of literature and reading, including biographies for children, missionary stories , and novels. Christian biographies for young readers are a central piece of Sonlight specifically because they so artfully combine history and personal stories of the people who lived that history. 

We know that stories are always more memorable than mere date/time/place history learned from a textbook. Children will always be more engaged in the story of history, which is the primary reason we include a biography or two in nearly every Sonlight level. Children will tend to have a well-rounded view of a biographical character and their place in history after reading their story.

What Are the Best Children's Christian Biographies?

As a Christian curriculum provider, we lean toward choosing characters in history who have expressed faith and who also have relevant stories for our children to read. We believe that reading and discussing the strengths and weaknesses of these true-life people can be instructional and encouraging for young people. Many of our favorite Christian biographies for children may be a starting place for future study later.

Many adult-sized biographies would be overwhelming for younger children, in particular, so we have carefully chosen Christian biographies for young readers to suit different ages and reading maturity levels.

We have many selections from the series Christian Heroes: Then and Now, for instance, that are fast-paced, engaging, and just the right length to hold the kids' attention.

Why Read Biographies Aloud to Your Kids?

Reading aloud is far more than sharing a story with your children. The Read-Aloud Handbook , a million-copy bestseller, shared groundbreaking research on the benefits of reading aloud to children for their academic development. Author Jim Trelease subsequently lectured in all 50 states and overseas, advocating the benefits of reading aloud to children. For more on this topic see Jim’s free parent handouts . Since reading aloud is so good for you and your children, why not include favorite Christian biographies for young readers?

What Other Christian Biographies Should Kids Read?

While many of the Christian biographies for young readers sets in our curriculum are selected for their connection to the specific Bible / History / Literature level, we also believe that the right biography may spark an interest in other areas of study as in the arts or science. We have several curated lists for some of these categories:

• Books for Black History Month
• Books for Kids Who Love History
• Presidents Day Books
• Books About Artists
• Heroes in History

How Do I Write a Christian Biography About Myself? 

Reading the life stories of fascinating people in history can be a great impetus for your children to write their own stories as a language arts assignment. These do not necessarily have to be difficult and may be a work in progress as your children mature. Learning to think chronologically and to consider cause and effect in their life events are useful skills.

A few good places to start for your children is to ask them to respond to the following prompts:

• Tell about a time you overcame obstacles.
• Tell your faith story.
• Give an account of a life-changing experience in your life.
• Tell about people, books, and experiences that had an influence on you.

For younger writers, encourage them to think through the simpler points of their life stories:

• Where and when were you born?
• Tell about your immediate family.
• What is unique about you? What do you enjoy doing?
• Include some specific memorable experiences in your life.
• Tell about your home and the town you live in.

What Are the Types of Biographies?

Biographies can be generally grouped into a few categories—share these with your children so they can identify what type of biography they are reading.

• Autobiographies —first-person accounts of a person’s life.
• Biographies —accounts of a person’s life written by another person, usually using historical accounts, documents, letters, speeches, etc. of the person.
• Memoirs —also written in first-person but usually just covering a narrow part of a person’s life story, such as their experiences during World War II.
• Novelized Biographies , sometimes called creative non-fiction—where the majority of the story is true and based on known facts as a biography above, but the dialogue and some aspects of the story may be imagined, simplified or combined for a smoother reading experience. Many, but not all of our selections for children fall into this category.

Where Can I Get Great Biographies for Young Children?

Sonlight is an excellent source of favorite Christian biographies. As we discover new Christian biographies at Sonlight, we occasionally add or adjust our titles in our homeschool curriculum packages. You can view some of our favorites listed below from younger grade levels to higher ones. Some of these, like Little House in the Big Woods and Little Britches , are part of a larger Christian biography series.

1. Little House in the Big Woods   

From sonlight's history / bible / literature k.

The first in the Little House on the Prairie stories finds Laura living with Pa and Ma and her sisters Mary and baby Carrie in a log cabin in the Wisconsin woods. The late 1870's setting provides a glimpse into long-ago times. These stories have long been loved by young and old. Reads like fiction but these are true accounts. 

2. Out of Darkness   

From sonlight's history / bible / literature a.

Louis Braille suffered the loss of his eyesight as a young boy, but overcame his difficulties and went on to pioneer the alphabet used by the blind worldwide. This account follows his life from a young age through his time at the Royal Institute for Blind Youth in Paris. 

3. Johnny Appleseed: The Story of a Legend  

Johnny Appleseed has long been a man of myth and legend, but John Chapman was a real person born in 1774 in Massachusetts! Children will enjoy this story of the man who planted apple trees across an emerging nation and became a folk hero. 

4. Mary on Horseback   

Mary Breckinridge is a little-known hero who established the Frontier Nursing Service in the Appalachian Mountains in the 1920s. Mary brought medical care to the remote towns and people via horseback! 

5. The Lewis & Clark Expedition   

From sonlight's history / bible / literature d.

Many accounts of Meriwether Lewis and William Clark’s overland expedition exist, but this is an accessible book perfect for young readers. Follow along as these Americans and their team explore “the interior parts of North America,” to the Pacific Ocean. Follow along on a map! 

6. Carry On, Mr. Bowditch  

This is an account no one should miss. See how young Nathaniel Bowditch overcame poverty, dashed educational dreams, and more to travel the world and become the father of modern maritime navigation. Children will be inspired by how this largely self-taught young man never gave up. 

7. Justin Morgan Had a Horse  

The world-famous Morgan horse has a fascinating history in early America. This true story of a boy and a beloved horse is written by Marguerite Henry whose horse stories have delighted generations. 

8. Robert Fulton, Boy Craftsman   

Your aspiring engineers and inventors will enjoy this true account of Robert Fulton who is credited as the inventor of the world’s first commercially successful steamboat. Follow him from his early days of discovery to this world-changing invention and beyond. 

9. One Voice: The Story of William Wilberforce  

From sonlight's history / bible / literature e.

One of the most powerful stories your children can read about how one person committed to a cause can truly change history and make an enormous difference in the world. William Wilberforce fought for decades to end the Slave Trade in Great Britain. He lived to see the success of his work. Inspiring and humbling. 

10. Little Britches : Father and I Were Ranchers   

Ralph Moody paints a poignant memoir of his early years in Colorado after his family moves there for his father’s health. Ranch life is hard with fights over water rights, storms, poverty, and death, but the family perseveres. This early 1900s true story will leave you with a catch in your throat. You may want to read the whole autobiographical series! 

11. Freedom Train

From sonlight’s history / bible / literature e.

This is an excellent account of Harriet Tubman, a Black former slave who spent years rescuing slaves from the south via the Underground Railroad. The risks she took and her successes will encourage and inspire you and your children.

12. Helen Keller   

Tragically, Helen Keller lost both her sight and hearing in a severe illness when she was young. A strong and caring teacher persevered to open the world again for Helen who went on to college and more, overcoming her limitations.

13. George Washington Carver  

A very readable account of George Washington Carver, who began life as a slave but grew up to be a famous agricultural scientist and inventor. He pioneered alternative crops to prevent soil depletion from over-farming cotton, found hundreds of uses for peanuts and more. 

14. A Long Walk to Water   

From sonlight's history / bible / literature f.

A dual account of Nya in Sudan who walks eight hours a day for water and Salva who is a “lost boy” refugee in the same war-torn country. Salva’s story is gripping and often frightening as he overcomes numerous hardships. He eventually returns to his home country to help his people and find his family. Touching and poignant. Videos of the author sharing his story are available online. 

15. Mary Jones & Her Bible

From sonlight's history / bible / literature h.

Mary Jones was a poor girl living in Wales. She worked for years to earn enough money to buy a copy of the Bible in Welsh, walking a long distance alone to acquire one. This unforgettable story shows young people not only her determination but her devotion to the Scriptures. 

16. The Story of Science: Newton at the Center   

From sonlight's history / bible / literature j.

The stories behind the science are sometimes the most fascinating parts! Learn from scientific advances from Newton and Brahe and more. Short, compelling biographies of several scientists reveal the stories behind the discoveries, including the failures and triumphs! 

17. Freedom Walkers   

From sonlight's history / bible / literature 100.

Most people have heard of Rosa Parks and her famous refusal to give up her bus seat. That story was the beginning of the Montgomery Bus Boycott! This account details the how and why and what of the boycotters and the courage they displayed risking their personal safety and more. How did they change the world? You’ll have to read it! 

18. The Great Little Madison  

This little volume by the beloved Jean Fritz tells the story of the "Father of the Constitution," James Madison. Fritz has a knack for including fascinating tidbits about the characters she writes about.

19. The Cross and the Switchblade  

A gripping account for older student readers (mature subjects) of how a pastor is called to New York City to minister to gangs, drug addicts, and more. This modern classic is a must-read. 

20. Farewell to Manzanar   

Too many generations in America are not aware of the detention of hundreds of thousands of Japanese Americans during World War II. This first-person account is a true story of how one girl and her family faced this harrowing experience and persevered in the Manzanar Camp behind barbed wire in California. 

21. The Hiding Place

From sonlight 20th century world history.

This powerful story may change your life. A staunchly Christian Dutch family chooses to hide Jews after their country is occupied by the Nazis in World War II. Their devotion to protecting “God’s people” nearly cost them everything. Gripping, challenging, uplifting. 

22. Up From Slavery  

From sonlight's history / bible / literature 400.

In studying US history, no one should miss Booker T. Washington’s account of his life from slavery to freedom. This devout Christian man went on to become an educator, author, and adviser to several American presidents.

Author: Karen Koch

The Top Summer Reading List For Middle Schoolers

Sonlight Summer Readers: Mom's Secret for #Winning Book Choices

Helping Third Culture Kids Understand Home: Books that Speak to the Expat Child

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Most Popular

Article categories.

• Back to School
• Encouragement
• High School
• Middle School
• Homeschool Basics
• Planning, Organizing, and Scheduling
• Reading and Literature
• Sarita's Word
• Scholarship Winners
• Sonlight Spotlight
• Special Needs
• Summer Learning
• Uncategorized
• Where Are They Now

#sonlightstories

Love to learn, love to teach™

8042 South Grant Way Littleton, CO 80122 USA

1-800-903-1675

25 Captivating Books for 8th Graders

Alison Doherty

Alison Doherty is a writing teacher and part time assistant professor living in Brooklyn, New York. She has an MFA from The New School in writing for children and teenagers. She loves writing about books on the Internet, listening to audiobooks on the subway, and reading anything with a twisty plot or a happily ever after.

View All posts by Alison Doherty

Finding books for eighth graders can be a tricky tightrope to walk. Some 8th graders are already immersed in adult books. Others might not love reading or still might be struggling to read with ease. Both of these are normal. And between middle grade fantasy , classics, romances, and graphic novels , I tried to pick 25 books that will appeal to all kinds of 8th grade readers.

With a mixture of books from middle grade, young adult, and adult categories, I searched through reviews to make sure these were all considered appropriate for 13- and 14-year-old readers. Many are also suggestions I’ve gotten from 8th grade students where I teach. Without further stalling, here are 25 books for all kinds of 8th grade readers.

Best New Books for 8th Graders

When you were everything by ashley woodfolk.

Cleo and Layla used to be best friends. But in Sophomore year, everything changes. The two drift apart until their friendship dramatically ends. Cleo is still trying to make sense of what happens as she tries to move forward making new friends, listening to jazz and reading her beloved Shakespeare. Told in two timelines, before and after, Cleo’s story of grieving for a lost friendship will be relevant for many 8th graders trying to process past middle school friend drama and looking forward to high school.

The Kingdom of Back by Marie Lu

This is a historical fantasy novel based on Mozart’s older sister, Maria, that came out in March. Maria Anna is a musical prodigy in her own right. She travelled around Europe with her brother performing throughout her childhood. This story mixes the 18th century world they lived in with the fantasy world of Back, which the real Mozart siblings invented on their travels as children. Throughout the story Maria Anna must straddle the worlds: one full of magical fairy friends who may or may not have her best interest at heart and another where her brother’s gender means he will achieve musical accolades she can only dream of.

The Extraordinaries by TJ Klune

A queer superhero story full of suspense, action, and romance. Nick Bell doesn’t have any super powers. But he writes super popular fan fiction about the heroes who do. And after a chance encounter with his favorite figure, Shadow Star, he begins a quest to turn his ordinary life into something more.

Infinity Son by Adam Silvera

Emil and Brighton are brothers living in a speculative version of New York City, where people can be born with special powers and abilities and Spell Walkers fight the specters who want to take those powers away. When Emil discovers his own powers and Brighton uploads a video of him, both brothers’ futures and their relationships are tested in a story of jealousy, loyalty, and adventure. This is a science fiction/fantasy hybrid story that came out earlier this year. It’s almost guaranteed to keep 8th grade readers turning pages.

Clap When You Land by Elizabeth Acevedo

Camino Rios lives in the Dominican Republic. Yahaira Rio lives in New York City. They don’t know about each other, or even know they have a sister, until their beloved Papi unexpectedly dies in an airplane crash, flying from New York to the Dominican Republic to visit Camino. As both grieve, they learn about each other and unravel the web of secrets their family kept from them. Told in dual perspectives, through the beautiful verse of each girl’s poetry, the Rios sisters try to figure out how to keep pursuing their dreams even when tragedy strikes.

Classic Books for 8th Graders

The house on mango street by sandra cisneros.

This 1984 novel by Mexican American writer Sandra Cisneros uses vignettes to tell the story of Esperanza Cordero. Esperanza is a middle school girl growing up in the Hispanic quarter of Chicago. Living in a poor neighborhood, she dreams of moving somewhere else. But the book explores the culture around her, both celebrating her Mexican American culture and exposing the sexist influences in her life that Esperanza tries to overcome throughout the story.

The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien

This familiar fantasy story is a precursor to the longer and more challenging Lord of the Rings Trilogy. It’s a contained adventure story in an epic fantasy world. With dwarves, hobbits, sword fights, wizards, and dragons, the book’s plot and humor have stood the test of time. There is a reason this book has been popular with children and adult readers for more than eighty years!

The Hound of the Baskervilles by Arthur Conan Doyle

For budding mystery readers, introduce them to a classic whodunnit. The famous detective Sherlock Holmes and his companion Watson set out to investigate a new case in Dartmoor, England. A man is dead with enormous dog pawprints leading to his body. Some believe it is a coincidence. Others believe in a family curse and a local legend of a supernatural dog, able to frighten people to death. Holmes and Watson arrive in Dartmoor to find several unexplainable occurrences and clues. Together, they start to unravel a puzzle that defined mystery and detective fiction ever since this book was published.

Things Fall Apart by Chinua Achebe

This is a classic that’s great to read at almost any age. I read this in middle school and again in college. It was published in 1959 and has become a rare African book accepted into the academic cannon. The fascinating novel follows the character Okonkwo, who’s living in an Igbo village in Nigeria. His life dramatically changes as white missionaries and colonialism influence the world around him. Despite a bleak subject, the story is infused with lyrical writing and moments of humor.

Award-Winning Books for 8th Graders

Brown girl dreaming by jacqueline woodson.

Winner of the National Book Award, the Coretta Scott King Award, and a Newberry Honor Book, Brown Girl Dreaming  uses poetry for the author to tell her true story of growing up Black in the 1960s and 1970s. Woodson’s beautiful, sparse language explores big ideas, while describing her family, her growing awareness of race and the Civil Rights movement, and her life split between South Carolina and New York City.

I’ll Give You the Sun by Jandy Nelson

This book won the Printz Award and is a Stonewall Honor Book. It follows twins Noah and Jude, alternating between their perspectives and two different periods of time. One, when they are 13, inseparable, their mother is still alive, and Noah is falling in love for the first time with their new neighbor Brian. The second is when the twins are 16, barely speaking, and without their mother. Along with powerful, lyrical prose, the book explores what it means to be an artist, what it means to be a family, and what it means to grow up.

Scythe by Neal Shusterman

This book won the Printz award and gained several other honors and smaller awards as well. In a dystopian (or perhaps utopian) future, technological advances have eliminated death by natural causes. Society has created a new roll “Scythes” who kill people to keep the population under control. Two teenagers, Rowan and Citra, are training to become Scythes. But in the course of their training, they uncover massive corruption within the Scythe system. The secrets they uncover and their relationship with each other will change both their destinies and the course of society at large.

The Field Guide to the North American Teenager by Ben Philippe

This book is the 2020 winner the Morris Award, which honors new writers making their young adult debut. In it, Norris a Black French Canadian teenager who must acclimate to a new life in Austin, Texas. He observes and categorizes everyone around him and longs to go home to Canada. And sometimes—just sometimes—Norris learns to see past his assumptions and categorizations to make friends or, at least, understand the individual people around him more clearly.

 Challenging Books for 8th Graders

The interpreter of maladies by jhumpa lahiri.

This Pulitzer Prize–winning short story collection explores the lives of Indian and Indian American characters who feel caught between the cultures of both countries. The immigrant experience is portrayed through lyrical prose and intense character study. This book does touch on adult themes, such as death, grief, and sexuality, but appears on some middle school and 9th grade curriculums. The Interpreter of Maladies will be a challenging book for advanced and mature 8th graders to read.

The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern

With multiple perspectives, sophisticated setting descriptions, and a complicated magic system, this novel could be a good “reach” book for 8th graders. Two young magicians, Celia and Marcus, have been training for a magical duel their whole lives. The duel involves one upping each other in the creation of a magical circus. But when they meet and have feelings for each other, the competition is put at risk. But in love or not, the game keeps demanding more and more from each magician. Neither wants to lose the game or each other.

The Fire Next Time by James Baldwin

This nonfiction book addresses racism in America and describes Baldwin’s early life growing up in Harlem. The book consists of two essays: “My Dungeon Shook—Letter to my Nephew on the One Hundredth Anniversary of the Emancipation” and “Down at the Cross—Letter From a Region of My Mind.” They were written in the 1960s, but function as both a historical read and one that is unfortunately still relevant in America today. The essays were written for an adult reader, but are appropriate for mature 8th grade readers and sure to spark important discussions.

Fantasy Books for 8th Graders 

Nocturna by maya motayne.

In a Latinx inspired fantasy world, Finn is a thief with the magical ability to change her appearance and Alfie is prince with magical powers of his own. Their paths cross when Alfie unleashes a powerful dark magic in the hopes of bringing back his dead older brother. Finn just happens to be in the palace, attempting to steal a mystical cloak of invisibility. They’re pasts and personalities couldn’t be more different. But they have to work together, or their world will be destroyed forever.

Tristan Strong Punches a Hole in the Sky by Kwame Mbalia

Eighth graders who love mythology and Rick Riordan books (AKA pretty much every eighth grader I’ve ever taught who likes reading) will devour this new fantasy series. While spending the summer at his grandparents’ farm in Alabama, Tristan accidentally opens—punches—a portal to the magical and scary world of MidPass. MidPass weaves together African American and West African gods. To return home, Tristan must convince the trickster god Anansi to seal the hole he created in the sky. But first, Anansi asks for a dangerous favor in return.

Mechanica by Betsy Cornwell

Steampunk, science-forward Cinderella retelling. Do I need to say more to convince 8th grade readers to pick up this book? I doubt it, but I’ll keep going. Nic is called Mechanica by her cruel stepsisters. They think it’s an insult, but being an inventor is one of her proudest accomplishment. She’s created impressive technology to do all the chores her stepmother pushes on her. And instead of a ball, Nic is preparing for the royal science exposition in hopes of finding funders to gain her independence. There is a prince. He is dreamy. But he is also not the only way for Nic to get the future she dreams of for herself.

Akata Witch by Nnedi Okorafor

Sunny was born in New York but now lives in Alba, Nigeria. This and the fact that she’s albino make her feel like an outsider. But when she’s 12, she makes friends with  Orlu and Chichi and is thrust into the magical world of the Leopard People. In this world, she learns how to perform her own magic and harness her power. She must keep it a secret from her family, but also gives her a sense of belonging. But the stakes are raised when Sunny and her friends are tasked with finding Black Hat Otokoto, a Leopard man responsible for kidnapping and hurting many children.

Romance Books for 8th Graders

I wanna be where you are by kristina forest.

Eighth graders will love looking ahead to high school in this road trip ballet romcom. Chloe’s dream is to dance at a ballet conservatory in New York City. Her mom, however, won’t let her audition. But when her mom goes on vacation, Chloe road trips down to Washington, D.C., to try out. The only problem is her ex–best frenemy and neighbor Eli finds out and blackmails her into taking him and his smelly dog Geezer along. Eli is trying to figure out his future as well. If he’ll go to the school his dad wants or follow his own dream to study art. Along the way, both characters learn lessons, gain confidence, and sparks fly between them.

The Gravity of Us by Phil Stamper

Cal and Leon are both the sons of astronauts and meet when their fathers are preparing for a new NASA mission to Mars. For publicity, they become involved in a space-themed reality TV show. Both must deal with being thrust into the national spotlight as they figure out their romantic attraction and connection. But when Cal finds out secrets about the space program, he feels torn. He wants to world to know the truth. But he doesn’t want to hurt the people he loves.

All the Things We Never Knew by Liara Tamani

A first love story that unfolds against the backdrop of the basketball court. When basketball players Carli and Rex meet, they fall for each other fast. But is love for each other enough when secrets, uncertain futures, and self-doubt enter the relationship? Equal parts hilarious and emotional, this book is always Romantic with a capital R. Prepare to swoon, 8th grade readers!

Graphic Novels for 8th Graders

New kid by jerry craft.

An own voices graphic novel about following your passions and fitting in. Jordan wants to go to art school, but his parents enroll him in a fancy private school where is one of the only kids of color. He appreciates the education and starts making friends, but feels like he is being split between two worlds. And he realizes that neither his neighborhood self or his school self feel like real, authentic versions of him.

The Prince and the Dressmaker by Jen Wang

Prince Sebastian’s parents want him to find a bride. But he is hiding a key part of his identity from everyone: At night, he wears the most fashionable dresses and charms the Parisian social scene as Lady Crystallia. Only his best friend and dressmaker, Frances, knows his secret. But Frances has her own ambitions beyond making dresses for just the prince. This is a romantic fairytale that embraces the power of true friendship and the truth that boys can wear dresses.

I hope there’s something here for almost every 8th grade reader, spanning interests and reading level. But of course, there are hundreds and hundreds of other wonderful books for 8th graders to fall in love with. After going through these one, this list of 100 must-read middle school books should be next on your list!

You Might Also Like