Book Lists for School-Age Readers

Book Lists for School-Age Readers

These recommended reading lists are curated by our children’s librarians and each book is available for digital download:

Fun Mysteries for 3rd-5th Graders
Books About Handling Emotions
Books About Overcoming Obstacles
Young Teen Reads If You LOVE Animal Crossing

Fun Mysteries for 3rd-5th graders

The House with a Clock in its Walls by John Bellairs
eBook available on Libby and Overdrive
Orphaned Lewis Barnavelt comes to live with his Uncle Jonathan and quickly learns that both his uncle and his next-door neighbor are witches on a quest to discover the terrifying clock ticking within the walls of Jonathan’s house.

 

The Monster in the Mattress and Other Stories / El monstruo en el colchón y otras historias by Diane de Anda
eBook available on Libby and Overdrive
Seven-year-old Rudi looks up to his big brother Tony, who isn’t afraid to sleep in the dark. Tony humors Rudi, allowing him a night light next to his bed in the room they share especially after reading scary stories at bedtime. But when his bed starts shaking in the night, even brave Tony is sure a spooky creature has inhabited it.

 

The Hardy Boys: Robot Rumble by Franklin W. Dixon
eBook available on Libby and Overdrive
Bayport Elementary annual science fair is here, and Frank, Joe, and their friend Phil are determined to win. But the morning of the fair, Phil discovers that their awesome homemade robot has gone missing!

 

Escape from Mr. Lemoncello’s Library by Chris Grabenstein
eBook available on Libby and Overdrive
Twelve-year-old Kyle gets to stay overnight in the new town library, designed by his hero (the famous gamemaker Luigi Lemoncello), with other students but finds that come morning he must work with friends to solve puzzles in order to escape!

 

Sherlock Holmes and the Disappearing Diamond by Sam Hearn
eBook available on Libby and Overdrive
John Watson has barely settled into his new school, when his teacher announces a trip to one of London’s top museums, home to the Alpine Star, the world’s most famous jewel. But the gem has been stolen!

 

 

Nancy Drew and the Clue Crew: Fashion Disaster by Carolyn Keene
eBook available on Libby and Overdrive
Nancy Drew investigates when someone steals a basket of gourmet dog biscuits from a dog show.

 

 

Judy Moody and Friends: Amy Namey in Ace Reporter by Megan McDonald
eBook available on Libby and Overdrive
Hoping to secure her career as an ace reporter in spite of limited happenings in quiet Frog Neck Lake, Amy Namey teams up with Judy Moody to search for an exciting news story involving the famed Great Virginia Sea Serpent.

 

 

A to Z Mysteries: Space Shuttle Scam by Ron Roy
eBook available on Libby and Overdrive
Dink, Josh, and Ruth Rose head to Florida where they uncover a scam at a local space memorabilia attraction.

 

 

Encyclopedia Brown, Boy Detective by Donald J. Sobol
eBook available on Libby and Overdrive
Fifth-grader “Encyclopedia” Leroy Brown solves ten mysteries and, by putting the solutions at the back of the book, challenges the reader to do the same.

 

 

The Boxcar Children: Haunted Cabin Mystery by Gertrude Chandler Warner
eBook available on Libby and Overdrive
Henry, Jessie, Violet, and Benny take a trip down the Mississippi River in a paddle-wheel boat and stay in a haunted cabin! At least it seems haunted – there are spooky phone calls, flickering lights, and strange shadows. Are there really ghosts, or is someone trying to scare the Boxcar Children away?

 

The Code Busters Club: The Secret of the Skeleton Key by Penny Warner
eBook available on Libby and Overdrive
Using their code-breaking skills, four middle-schoolers solve mystery of the eccentric man who draws stick figures on his second-floor bedroom window.

 

 

One Minute Mysteries: 65 Short Mysteries You Solve with Math! by Eric Yoder and Natalie Yoder
eBook available on Libby and Overdrive
These fun mysteries are each one minute long and have a unique twist–you need to tap into your mathematical wisdom to solve them.

 

 

Books About Handling Emotions

The Notation of Cooper Cameron by Jane O’Reilly
eBook available on Libby and Overdrive or Hoopla
When Cooper’s strange behavior drives a wedge between his parents, and his relationship with his older sister, Caddie, begins to fray, his mother’s only solution is to take Cooper and Caddie to the family cabin for the summer.
For grades 3-6.

 

All Birds Have Anxiety by Kathy Hoopmann
eBook available on Libby and Overdrive
This simple yet profound book validates the deeper everyday experiences of anxiety, provides an empathetic understanding of the many symptoms associated with anxiety, and offers compassionate suggestions for change. The combination of understanding and gentle humor make this the ideal introduction to anxiety disorder for those diagnosed with this condition, their family and friends and those generally interested in understanding anxiety.
For grades K-3.

 

The Boy with the Butterfly Mind by Victoria Williamson
eBook available on Libby and Overdrive
Jamie Lee just wants to be normal but his ADHD isn’t making it easy. If only he could control his butterfly mind then he’d have friends, be able to keep out of trouble, live with his mum and not be sent to stay with his dad.
For grades 4-6.

 

The Princess and the Fog: A Story for Children with Depression by Lloyd Jones
eBook available on Libby and Overdrive
An enjoyable story that describes the symptoms of childhood depression while also providing hope that things can get better with a little help and support.
For grades K-2.

 

 

I Am Peace: A Book of Mindfulness by Susan Verde; illustrated by Peter H. Reynolds
eBook available on Libby and Overdrive or Hoopla
When the world feels chaotic, find peace within through an accessible mindfulness practice from the bestselling picture-book dream team that brought us I Am Yoga. Express emotions through direct speech. Find empathy through imagination. Connect with the earth. Wonder at the beauty of the natural world. Breathe, taste, smell, touch, and be present.
For grades PreK-4.

 

Girls Who Code: Spotlight on Coding Club by Michelle Schusterman
eBook available on Libby and Overdrive
Erin has a big secret: she has anxiety. And when things start piling up at home and school, she starts having trouble handling everything. Her friends from coding club have always been there for her, but will they be as understanding when the going gets tough?
For grades 4-8.

 

What’s up, Maloo? by Genevieve Godbout
eBook available on Libby and Overdrive
Simple text and adorable art convey the power of friendship over a gloomy mood in Geneviève Godbout’s charming debut.
For grades PreK-2.

 

 

Hurricane Season by Nicole Melleby
eBook available on Libby and Overdrive or Hoopla
Hurricane Season is a radiant and tender novel about taking risks and facing danger, about friendship and art, and about growing up and coming out. And more than anything else, it is a story about love—both its limits and its incredible healing power.
For grades 5-7.

 

The Anxiety Workbook for Kids by Robin Alter and Crystal Clarke
eBook available on Libby and Overdrive or Hoopla
With engaging CBT (Cognitive-behavioral therapy)-based activities, games, and illustrations—and with a focus on imagination training and developing skills like problem solving, assertiveness, positive thinking, body awareness, relaxation, and mindfulness—this book will help kids stand up to worry and harness the power of their imagination for good.
For grades K-5.

 

Kasey & Ivy by Alison Hughes
eBook available on Libby and Overdrive or Hoopla
Through twenty-six letters to her friend Nina, twelve-year-old Kasey chronicles the often humorous observations and impressions of her unexpected, month-long stay in a geriatric ward for the treatment of a rare but treatable bone disease.
For grades 4-6.

 

The Heart of a Whale by Anna Pignataro
eBook available on Libby and Overdrive
Filled with stunning art and poetic language, this poignant story reminds us that being kind and helping a friend in need is sometimes the most beautiful thing of all.
For grades PreK-2.

 

 

Get Me Out of this Book: Rules & Tools for Being Brave by Deborah Cholette and Kalli Dakos; illustrated by Sara Infante
eBook available on Libby and Overdrive
“GET ME OUT OF THIS BOOK!” shouts Max. Max is a scaredy-cat bookmark until he learns 3 rules for being brave—breathe deeply, make a plan, and think positive thoughts!
For grades PreK-2.

 

 

When Sadness is at Your Door by Eva Eland
eBook available on Libby and Overdrive
Eva Eland’s debut picture book is a great primer in mindfulness and emotional literacy, perfect for kids navigating these new feelings—and for adult readers tackling the feelings themselves!
For grades K-3.

 

 

The Rabbit Listened by Cori Doerrfeld
eBook available on Libby and Overdrive
With its spare, poignant text and irresistibly sweet illustration, The Rabbit Listened is about how to comfort and heal the people in your life, by taking the time to carefully, lovingly, gently listen.
For grades PreK-2.

 

Fiction Books About Overcoming Obstacles

Fish in a Tree by Linda Mullaly Hunt
eBook available on Libby and Overdrive
Ally has been smart enough to fool all her previous teachers of her inability to read, that is until she ends up in Mr. Daniels’ class. When it becomes clear he can teach her the tools she needs to improve, Ally finally gains the confidence to be herself.
For grades 4-6.

 

Restart by Gordon Korman
eBook available on Libby and Overdrive
Chase doesn’t remember anything about himself before he fell off the roof. But when he finally comes back to school he sees how some kids clearly missed him while others are afraid of him. Soon Chase is faced with coming to terms with who he was, and who he wants to be now.
For grades 3-6.

 

The Only Game by Mike Lupica
Audiobook available on Libby and Overdrive or Hoopla
After the loss of his brother, Jack loses interest in baseball. After his undefeated season and awards, Jack decides to quit. However, with the help of his new friends, Jack just might find his way back to the game he loves.
For grades 4-6.

 

 Wish by Barbara O’Connor
eBook available on Libby and Overdrive
When Charlie Reese’s irresponsible parents send her to the Blue Ridge Mountains to live with family, she begins making a wish. She needs that wish to come true now more than ever, but will it?
For grades 4-6.

 

Hoot by Carl Hiaasen
eBook available on Libby and Overdrive
Roy is having a difficult time in Florida, until he sees the running boy from his bus. This mystery leads Roy to find the running boy and uncover a mystery in the process.
For grades 5-8.

 

 Save Me a Seat by Sarah Weeks and Gita Varadarajan
eBook available on Libby and Overdrive; Audiobook available on Hoopla
Joe and Ravi have lived two very different lives. Joe has lived in the same place his entire life, while Ravi just moved to America from India. However they both find themselves in the same school, in the same cafeteria, dealing with the same enemy.
For grades 3-6.

 

Non-Fiction Books About Overcoming Obstacles

The Boys in the Boat: Young Reader’s Adaptation by Daniel James Brown
eBook available on Libby and Overdrive
Based on the true story of nine working-class boys from the American West, making it all the way to the 1936 Olympics for rowing. This story of grit and friendship reminds readers of the importance of perseverance.
For grades 4-7.

 

The Only Woman in the Photo: Frances Perkins & Her New Deal for America by Kathleen Krull
eBook available on Libby and Overdrive; Audiobook available on Hoopla
Most people know about President FDR, but do you know the woman who created his groundbreaking New Deal, Frances Perkins? Her determination led her to become the first female Secretary of Labor.
For grades 3-6.

 

 The Oldest Student: How Mary Walker Learned to Read by Rita Lorraine Hubbard, illustrated by Oge Mora
eBook available on Libby and Overdrive
See the progression of Mary Walker’s life as she was born a slave, freed by age 15, and made the decision to learn how to read at age 116. Her remarkable story of perseverance and determination led to her proving that you are never too old to learn something new.
For grades K-3.

 

 Who Were the Tuskegee Airmen? by Sherri L. Smith
eBook available on Libby and Overdrive
This biography tells the story of the first African American military pilots. Follow the Tuskegee Airmen as they embark on flight school and later create a lasting impact on civil rights.
For grades 3-6.

 

 

 Who Was Jesse Owens? by James Buckley Jr.
eBook and available on Libby and Overdrive
This biography teaches readers about the Olympic Gold Medalist, Jesse Owens, who won four gold medals for Track and Field games at the 1936 Olympics in Germany.
For grades 3-6.

 

 

Young Teen Reads If You LOVE Animal Crossing

Moonstruck by Grace Ellis
eBook available on Libby and Overdrive
Werewolf barista Julie and her new girlfriend go on a date to a close-up magic show, but all heck breaks loose when the magician casts a horrible spell on their friend Chet. Now it’s up to the team of mythical pals to stop the illicit illusionist before it’s too late. The first chapter of the brand-new, all-ages, magical, coffee-laden adventure.
For grades 7-12

 

 

Camp by Kayla Miller
eBook available on Libby and Overdrive
From New York Times bestselling author-illustrator Kayla Miller comes a graphic novel about venturing off to summer camp for the first time and stepping out of one’s comfort zone, navigating new experiences, and the satisfaction of blazing your own trails.
For grades 4-7

 

 

The Witch Boy by Molly Ostertag
eBook available on Libby and Overdrive
In thirteen-year-old Aster’s family, all the girls are raised to be witches, while boys grow up to be shapeshifters. Anyone who dares cross those lines is exiled. Unfortunately for Aster, he still hasn’t shifted . . . and he’s still fascinated by witchery, no matter how forbidden it might be. When a mysterious danger threatens the other boys, Aster knows he can help — as a witch.
For grades 4-7

 

Bloom by Kevin Panetta
eBook available on Libby and Overdrive
Ari, a recent high school graduate, works in his family-owned bakery and plays in an indie band with 4 of his best friends in a small coastal town. When an accident occurs at the bakery, Ari has to rethink what he wants to do with his life and what will bring him happiness.
For grades 8-12

 

 

The Lost Rainforest: Mez’s Magic by Eliot Schrefer
eBook available on Libby and Overdrive; Audiobook available on Libby and Overdrive
An action-packed and hilarious animal fantasy adventure from New York Times bestselling author and National Book Award finalist Eliot Schrefer. Mez, a panther who discovers her magical powers after an eclipse, must unite the other animals to save Caldera from an evil force.
For grades 4-7

 

 

The Okay Witch by Emma Steinkellner
eBook available on Libby and Overdrive
Sabrina the Teenage Witch meets Roller Girl in this hilarious, one-of-a-kind graphic novel about a half-witch who has just discovered the truth about herself, her family, and her town and is doing her best to survive middle school now that she knows everything!
For grades 4-8

 

 

Ghosts by Raina Telgemeier
eBook available on Libby and Overdrive
From Raina Telgemeier, the #1 New York Times bestselling, multiple Eisner Award-winning author of Smile, Drama, and Sisters, this masterfully created, moving and insightful story is about the power of family and friendship, and how it gives us the courage to do what we never thought possible.
For grades 4-8

 

 

Stargazing by Jen Wang
eBook available on Libby and Overdrive
Stargazing is a heartwarming middle-grade graphic novel in the spirit of Real Friends and El Deafo, from New York Times bestselling author-illustrator Jen Wang. Growing up in the same Chinese-American suburb, perfectionist Christine and artistic, confident, impulsive Moon become unlikely best friends, whose friendship is tested by jealousy, social expectations, and illness.
For grades 3-6