The Greatest Middle Grade Books of All Time

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This list represents a comprehensive and trusted collection of the greatest books. Developed through a specialized algorithm, it brings together 759 'best of' book lists to form a definitive guide to the world's most acclaimed books. For those interested in how these books are chosen, additional details can be found on the rankings page.

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Genres

Middle Grade

Middle Grade is a category of books that is targeted towards readers between the ages of 8 and 12. These books are typically longer than picture books and have more complex storylines and characters. Middle Grade books often deal with themes of friendship, family, and growing up, and may include elements of adventure, fantasy, or mystery. They are designed to engage young readers and help them develop their reading skills and love of literature.

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  1. 26. A Swiftly Tilting Planet by Madeleine L'Engle

    In this science fiction-fantasy novel, the protagonist embarks on a time-traveling quest to prevent a global catastrophe. Guided by a unicorn, the protagonist uses a powerful rune to mentally leap through time and space, inhabiting the lives of different people throughout history who are connected to the present-day threat. As the protagonist influences the actions of these individuals, the narrative weaves a complex tapestry of interconnected events, emphasizing themes of family, love, and the interconnectedness of all things. The story challenges the protagonist to understand the ripple effects of actions across time, ultimately aiming to alter the course of history to save the world from impending doom.

    The 2827th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  2. 27. The Magician's Nephew by C. S. Lewis

    Book 1 of The Chronicles of Narnia

    The book is a prequel to the popular fantasy series, and tells the story of two children who stumble upon magical rings that transport them to different worlds. They encounter a wicked queen, awaken a powerful lion who creates a new world, and inadvertently bring the queen into this new world, setting the stage for the rest of the series. The book explores themes of creation, temptation, and the consequences of one's actions.

    The 2840th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  3. 28. Percy Jackson and the Olympians, Book One by Rick Riordan

    The Lightning Thief

    The first book in the series introduces Percy Jackson, a young boy with dyslexia and ADHD, who discovers he's actually a demigod, the son of Poseidon. Percy is sent to Camp Half-Blood, a summer camp for demigods on Long Island, where he learns about his divine ancestry and powers. When Zeus's master lightning bolt is stolen, Percy, along with his friends Annabeth (daughter of Athena) and Grover (a satyr), is tasked with preventing a war among the gods by retrieving the bolt. The trio embarks on a cross-country adventure to confront the thief and restore peace in the divine world.

    The 2880th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  4. 29. Redwall by Brian Jacques

    In the heart of Mossflower Woods stands Redwall Abbey, a place of peace and sanctuary for its animal inhabitants. However, their tranquility is shattered when the vicious rat, Cluny the Scourge, sets his sights on conquering the Abbey with his horde of vermin. The brave mice and their woodland friends must rally together to protect their home, led by the courageous young mouse Matthias. Drawing inspiration from the Abbey's legendary hero, Martin the Warrior, Matthias embarks on a perilous quest to find the lost sword of Martin, which is the key to defeating the malevolent invaders. Through a series of battles, riddles, and adventures, the inhabitants of Redwall fight for their freedom and the future of their home.

    The 2948th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  5. 30. The Robber Hotzenplotz by Otfried Preußler

    None

    In this delightful children's tale, a notorious and mischievous robber causes chaos in a small village by stealing a beloved coffee grinder from a kind grandmother. Two brave and resourceful boys, Kasperl and Seppel, embark on a daring adventure to retrieve the stolen item, encountering a series of humorous and thrilling escapades along the way. With clever disguises, unexpected allies, and a touch of magic, the boys navigate through challenges, outsmarting the cunning robber and restoring peace to their community.

    The 2988th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  6. 31. The House With A Clock In Its Walls by John Bellairs

    In this gothic mystery novel, a young orphan named Lewis Barnavelt moves to New Zebedee, Michigan, to live with his eccentric Uncle Jonathan, who turns out to be a mediocre, but well-intentioned, warlock. Lewis discovers that his uncle's house, a creaky, old mansion with a mysterious ticking heart, was previously owned by a sinister couple who sought to bring about the end of the world using a magical clock hidden within the walls. As Lewis learns magic from his uncle and befriends a neighboring witch named Mrs. Zimmerman, he must confront his own insecurities and fears while they all race against time to find the clock and stop the apocalyptic plans set in motion by the house's former inhabitants.

    The 3014th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  7. 32. Swallows and Amazons by Arthur Ransome

    This classic children's novel follows the summer adventures of the Walker and Blackett children as they camp, sail, and explore the Lake District of England. The Walker siblings, who fancy themselves as the crew of the ship Swallow, meet the Blackett sisters, self-proclaimed pirates of the ship Amazon. The two groups form a fast friendship and embark on a series of exciting escapades, including a treasure hunt, a battle for control of an island, and a run-in with a mysterious man they suspect is a criminal. The story is a celebration of the outdoors, imagination, and the joys of childhood.

    The 3082nd Greatest Book of All Time
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  8. 33. A Series of Unfortunate Events #1 by Lemony Snicket

    The Bad Beginning

    This book is the first in a series that follows the unfortunate lives of the Baudelaire children, Violet, Klaus, and Sunny, after their parents die in a mysterious fire. The children are sent to live with their distant relative, Count Olaf, who is cruel and only interested in their large inheritance. The children must use their unique skills and intellect to outsmart Olaf's evil plans and find a way to escape his clutches.

    The 3150th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  9. 34. The Magic Faraway Tree by Enid Blyton

    In this enchanting children's novel, a group of young siblings discovers an incredible tree in an enchanted forest near their new countryside home. This isn't just any tree; it's home to a variety of fantastical creatures and has magical lands that appear at its top, each with its own unique adventures and challenges. The children befriend the tree's quirky inhabitants and embark on a series of whimsical escapades, exploring lands filled with delights, dangers, and mysteries. Through their adventures, they learn the value of friendship, courage, and the boundless nature of imagination.

    The 3209th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  10. 35. The Book Of Three by Lloyd Alexander

    "The Book of Three" is a fantasy novel that follows the adventures of a young assistant pig-keeper named Taran, who dreams of being a grand hero. Set in the mythical land of Prydain, Taran embarks on a quest to find a missing oracle pig, Hen Wen, who holds the knowledge of future events. Along the way, he is joined by an intriguing and diverse group of companions, including a brave princess, a minstrel with a magical harp, and a furry creature named Gurgi. Together, they face the evil Horned King, encountering various challenges that test Taran's courage and ultimately teach him valuable lessons about heroism, responsibility, and self-discovery.

    The 3254th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  11. 36. Cireșarii by Constantin Chiriță

    The book follows a group of adventurous teenagers known as the Cireșarii, who embark on a series of thrilling escapades filled with mystery and discovery. Set in Romania, the story captures their camaraderie and courage as they explore hidden caves, solve puzzles, and confront various challenges. Through their journey, the characters develop strong bonds and learn valuable lessons about friendship, bravery, and the importance of teamwork. The narrative combines elements of adventure and youthful curiosity, making it an engaging tale of exploration and personal growth.

    The 3953rd Greatest Book of All Time
  12. 37. The Bears' Famous Invasion Of Sicily by Dino Buzzati

    In a whimsical tale set in a fantastical version of Sicily, a group of bears, led by their king, Leonzio, embark on an adventurous journey to reclaim their land from humans after a harsh winter forces them to seek food and shelter. As they navigate through battles and political intrigue, the bears encounter both the wonders and corruptions of human civilization. This enchanting story, infused with humor and moral lessons, explores themes of power, greed, and the delicate balance between nature and humanity, ultimately questioning the true cost of victory.

    The 4488th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  13. 38. The Black Cauldron by Lloyd Alexander

    The Chronicles of Prydain, Book 2

    In this fantasy novel, a young assistant pig-keeper named Taran embarks on a perilous quest with his companions to prevent the dark lord Arawn from using the powerful Black Cauldron to create an unstoppable army of undead warriors. As they journey through the mystical land of Prydain, Taran and his friends face numerous challenges and moral dilemmas, testing their courage, loyalty, and wisdom. The story explores themes of heroism, sacrifice, and the struggle between good and evil, as Taran learns valuable lessons about leadership and the true nature of power.

    The 4517th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  14. 39. When Hitler Stole Pink Rabbit by Judith Kerr

    A Memoir of a Jewish Family's Escape from Nazi Germany

    "When Hitler Stole Pink Rabbit" is a poignant and autobiographical novel that follows the life of a young Jewish girl named Anna and her family as they flee Germany in the 1930s to escape the rise of the Nazi regime. Through Anna's eyes, the book explores the challenges and hardships faced by refugees, as well as the loss of identity and sense of belonging. It is a touching story of resilience, courage, and the power of family bonds in the face of adversity.

    The 4554th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  15. 40. The Miraculous Journey Of Edward Tulane by Kate DiCamillo

    In this heartwarming tale, a china rabbit named Edward Tulane embarks on a miraculous journey of self-discovery. From being lost at sea to finding himself in the hands of various owners, Edward learns the true meaning of love, loss, and the importance of opening one's heart to others. Through his encounters with different people, Edward's once cold and self-centered nature gradually transforms, as he learns to value the connections he forms and the impact he can have on the lives of those around him.

    The 4631st Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  16. 41. Sarah, Plain and Tall by Patricia MacLachlan

    This is a heartwarming story set in the late 19th century about a widower and his two children living on the prairie who place an ad for a wife and mother. A woman named Sarah from Maine responds and comes to live with them for a trial period. Over time, Sarah, who is described as plain and tall, forms a bond with the children and the father, and despite her longing for the sea, she decides to stay and become a part of their family.

    The 4786th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  17. 42. Kristy’s Great Idea by Ann M. Martin

    The Baby-Sitters Club #1

    In this delightful tale, a spirited young girl, Kristy, comes up with a brilliant plan to start a babysitting club with her friends to earn some extra money and provide a reliable service for parents in their neighborhood. As the club begins to take shape, the girls navigate the challenges of entrepreneurship, friendship, and growing up, all while learning valuable lessons about teamwork, responsibility, and the importance of communication. With a blend of humor and heart, this story captures the essence of childhood adventures and the bonds that form when friends come together to achieve a common goal.

    The 4993rd Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  18. 43. The Children Of Green Knowe by L. M. Boston

    In this enchanting tale, a young boy named Tolly visits his great-grandmother's ancient, mysterious manor, where he discovers a magical world filled with the spirits of children who once lived there. As Tolly explores the house and its grounds, he forms a deep bond with these ghostly children, learning about their lives and adventures from the past. The story weaves together themes of friendship, history, and the supernatural, creating a timeless narrative that captures the imagination and the enduring connection between past and present.

    The 5224th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  19. 44. Holes by Louis Sachar

    This book follows the story of a young boy who is falsely accused of stealing a pair of sneakers and is sent to a juvenile detention center in the middle of a desert. Here, the boys are made to dig holes every day as a form of punishment. As the protagonist digs, he discovers the truth about the warden's obsession with the holes, the mystery of a hidden treasure, and a curse that has been haunting his family for generations. The story is a blend of adventure, mystery, and coming-of-age themes.

    The 5230th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  20. 45. Over Sea, Under Stone by Susan Cooper

    The Dark is Rising Sequence

    In this enchanting tale, three siblings discover an ancient map while on holiday in a small coastal village in Cornwall. As they unravel its secrets, they find themselves drawn into a timeless battle between good and evil, linked to the legendary King Arthur. With the help of their great-uncle, they must decipher the map's clues and protect a powerful relic from falling into the hands of dark forces. The story weaves elements of myth and adventure, highlighting themes of courage, family, and the enduring struggle between light and darkness.

    The 5499th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  21. 46. The Westing Game by Ellen Raskin

    In this mystery novel, a diverse group of tenants at the Sunset Towers apartment building is drawn into a complex game when the wealthy and eccentric Samuel W. Westing dies and names them as potential heirs to his fortune. The will sets them into pairs and provides cryptic clues leading to the supposed murderer among them, promising the entire estate to whoever solves the puzzle. As the pairs race to unravel the mystery, they uncover secrets about themselves and each other, leading to personal growth and unexpected alliances. The game is afoot with twists and turns, ultimately revealing the true nature of the legacy and the mastermind behind the elaborate ruse.

    The 5615th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  22. 47. Diary of a Wimpy Kid by Jeff Kinney

    Greg Heffley's Journal

    The book is a humorous portrayal of the protagonist's daily life as he navigates the trials and tribulations of middle school. Through his diary entries, the reader gets a glimpse into his struggles with family, friends, and school. With a unique blend of text and cartoons, the book provides an engaging and relatable depiction of the protagonist's attempts to gain popularity and survive the school year, despite his many embarrassing incidents and frequent misadventures.

    The 5617th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  23. 48. Hatchet by Gary Paulsen

    A 13-year-old boy survives a plane crash in the Canadian wilderness and is left to fend for himself with only a hatchet his mother gave him as a present. Over the course of several months, he learns to hunt, fish, and forage for food while also dealing with wild animals, harsh weather, and loneliness. Through a series of flashbacks, he also confronts painful memories from his past, and ultimately, he emerges stronger and more mature from his ordeal.

    The 5627th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  24. 49. The Lives Of Christopher Chant by Diana Wynne Jones

    In this enchanting fantasy novel, a young boy discovers his remarkable ability to travel between worlds while he sleeps. Unbeknownst to him, his gift makes him a valuable asset in the eyes of his uncle, who uses him to smuggle magical artifacts. As the boy grows, he learns more about his powers and the ethereal realm known as the Related Worlds. He must navigate the complexities of his family's expectations, his unique abilities, and an impending magical conflict. With the help of a talking cat and other peculiar friends he meets along the way, he embarks on a journey of self-discovery and must decide where his loyalties lie and how to use his gifts for the greater good.

    The 6120th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  25. 50. Greenwitch by Susan Cooper

    In this enchanting tale, the forces of good and evil clash as three children, Simon, Jane, and Barney, return to the coastal village of Trewissick. They join forces with their mysterious ally, Merriman Lyon, to recover a stolen ancient manuscript crucial to maintaining the balance between light and dark. As they delve into the village's mystical traditions, they encounter the Greenwitch, a powerful and enigmatic figure created by the local women in a secretive ritual. The children must navigate the complexities of human emotions and supernatural forces to prevent the Dark from gaining control, ultimately learning the importance of empathy and understanding in their quest.

    The 6315th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon

Reading Statistics

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Download

If you're interested in downloading this list as a CSV file for use in a spreadsheet application, you can easily do so by clicking the button below. Please note that to ensure a manageable file size and faster download, the CSV will include details for only the first 500 books.

Download

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