BOOKS: AGES 9-12
Fish in a Tree
by Lynda Mullaly Hunt
“Everybody is smart in different ways. But if you judge a fish by its ability to climb a tree, it will live its life believing it is stupid”. This uplifting book is about a young girl with dyslexia who second guesses her-self and her abilities. Her journey in understanding herself beyond this label and developing her confidence is a reflection of how we are all different and amazing in our own unique ways.
The Book Thief
by Markus Zusak
This YA novel is best for the 12 yo age group, mature reader. It is a book of historical fiction set in Germany during WWII narrated by Death who tells us the story of Liesel Meminger as he observes her actions when he comes to visit those who perish during the war. She is a young girl living with her foster father and shares her love of books and reading with her neighbors and the Jewish man who is hiding in her basement. This book is ultimately about hope and how we see Liesel hang on to this despite her circumstances and how we can learn about resiliency through her strength and hope.
Words on Fire
by Jennifer Nielson
This is a historical fiction novel that is resonates with our current events. This novel is set during the Soviet oppression of Lithuania and a girl’s journey in saving books, stories, language and ultimately the identity of the Lithuanians. It is a fast paced, action-packed book that will appeal to all types of readers.
Aru Shah
by Roshani Choksi
Action packed, full of magic and wonder, the Aru Shah series are a fun and exciting set of stories weaving in Hindu mythology and the present-day average life of the 12-year-old Are who just wants to fit in at school.
When you Reach Me
by Rebecca Stead
A Newbery Medal winning book of science fiction, this book combines mystery with the elements of wonder and will remind readers of A Wrinkle in Time. The story is such that it will make you want to re-read it again to unravel the beautiful writing and find clues that may have been missed the first time. Saying too much more may give it away. This book would be recommended for the 11 to 12-year-old age group and also possibly the advanced 10-year-old reader.