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. 101. Impossible Creatures by Katherine Rundell

    Christopher's life takes an unexpected turn when he rescues a baby griffin from a mysterious lake. This act introduces him to the Archipelago, a secret realm of islands where magical creatures have lived for centuries. However, this magical world is in peril, and Christopher soon meets Mal, a girl in urgent need of assistance. Together, they embark on a thrilling journey across the islands, seeking answers to the fading magic and the mysterious deaths of these creatures. Along the way, they encounter sphinxes, kraken, and dragons, each offering clues and challenges. As they delve deeper into the mystery, it becomes evident that the fate of the Archipelago rests in their hands.

    The 14984th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  2. 102. Maniac Magee by Jerry Spinelli

    In a tale of adventure and heart, a young boy becomes a legend in a racially divided town as he embarks on a journey of self-discovery and belonging. Orphaned and homeless, he runs away to a new town, where his extraordinary athletic abilities and fearless nature earn him the nickname "Maniac." As he navigates the challenges of prejudice and social barriers, he forms unlikely friendships and becomes a symbol of hope and unity, showing that courage and kindness can bridge even the deepest divides.

    The 14984th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  3. 103. The Wednesday Wars by Gary D. Schmidt

    Set against the backdrop of the Vietnam War and the tumultuous 1960s, this coming-of-age story follows seventh-grader Holling Hoodhood as he navigates the challenges of adolescence in a Long Island suburb. Every Wednesday afternoon, while his classmates attend religious instruction, Holling is left alone with his teacher, Mrs. Baker, who he initially believes despises him. However, as they delve into the works of Shakespeare together, an unexpected bond forms, revealing lessons about empathy, courage, and the complexities of human nature. Through humorous and poignant moments, Holling learns to confront his fears, stand up to bullies, and understand the importance of family and friendship.

    The 14984th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  4. 104. The Fairy Tale Detectives by Michael Buckley

    The Sisters Grimm, Book One

    In this enchanting tale, two sisters, Sabrina and Daphne Grimm, find themselves thrust into a world where fairy tales are not just stories but reality. After being sent to live with their mysterious grandmother in the town of Ferryport Landing, they discover their family's legacy as fairy tale detectives, tasked with solving magical mysteries involving characters from classic tales. As they navigate this new world filled with danger and wonder, the sisters must rely on their wits and courage to uncover the truth behind a series of strange occurrences, all while learning about their own family's hidden past.

    The 14984th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  5. 105. The Enchanted Wood by Enid Blyton

    Three siblings move to the country and discover a magical forest near their new home. The forest is filled with fantastical creatures and at the top of the tallest tree in the forest, they find a series of ever-changing magical lands. The children have numerous adventures in these lands, often having to outwit the mischievous inhabitants to return home safely.

    The 15898th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  6. 106. The House Of Dies Drear by Virginia Hamilton

    The novel is a gripping tale of mystery and history, centered around a young African American boy named Thomas Small and his family as they move into an old house that was once a station on the Underground Railroad. The house, known as Dies Drear, is rumored to be haunted by the ghosts of escaped slaves and the abolitionist who owned it. As Thomas explores his new home, he encounters secret passages, hidden rooms, and strange occurrences that suggest the rumors may be true. With the help of the caretaker's son, Thomas delves into the house's past to uncover its secrets and lay to rest the unsettled spirits of history. The story is a blend of supernatural elements and the harsh realities of American slavery, creating a suspenseful and educational narrative.

    The 15898th Greatest Book of All Time
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  7. 107. The Great Brain by John Dennis Fitzgerald

    The Great Brain Series, Book 1

    Set in a small Utah town in the late 19th century, the story follows the adventures of a clever and resourceful boy named Tom, known as "The Great Brain," who uses his intelligence and cunning to outwit friends, family, and townspeople. Through a series of schemes and entrepreneurial ventures, Tom demonstrates both the positive and negative aspects of his sharp mind, often finding himself in morally ambiguous situations. His younger brother, J.D., narrates the tale, providing a perspective that highlights both admiration and the ethical dilemmas posed by Tom's actions. The narrative captures the essence of childhood ingenuity and the complexities of growing up in a tight-knit community.

    The 15887th Greatest Book of All Time
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  8. 108. Paddle To The Sea by Holling C. Holling

    A Story of Adventure and Discovery

    A young Native American boy carves a wooden figure of a man in a canoe and sets it on a journey from the Great Lakes to the Atlantic Ocean. As the small vessel travels through various waterways, it encounters diverse landscapes, wildlife, and people, each contributing to its epic adventure. This enchanting tale beautifully intertwines geography, ecology, and cultural history, offering readers a vivid exploration of North America's natural wonders and the interconnectedness of its ecosystems.

    The 15898th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  9. 109. The Letter For The King by Tonke Dragt

    Set in a medieval world, this captivating tale follows a young squire named Tiuri, who is on the brink of knighthood. His life takes an unexpected turn when he is entrusted with a perilous mission: to deliver a secret letter to the king of a neighboring realm. As Tiuri embarks on this dangerous journey, he encounters treacherous enemies, loyal allies, and faces moral dilemmas that test his courage and integrity. The story weaves themes of bravery, honor, and the transition from adolescence to adulthood, as Tiuri learns the true meaning of knighthood beyond the sword.

    The 15898th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  10. 110. The Black Stallion by Walter Farley

    A thrilling tale of adventure and friendship, this story follows a young boy named Alec Ramsay who survives a shipwreck and finds himself stranded on a deserted island with a wild, untamed black stallion. As they struggle to survive, Alec forms a deep bond with the majestic horse, eventually gaining its trust. Upon their rescue, Alec returns home with the stallion, where they face new challenges and opportunities, ultimately leading to an exhilarating journey into the world of horse racing. The narrative beautifully captures the spirit of resilience, the power of companionship, and the pursuit of dreams.

    The 16525th Greatest Book of All Time
  11. 111. The Worst Witch by Jill Murphy

    The book tells the story of a young girl attending a witch academy who is always getting into trouble due to her clumsiness and inability to get her spells right. Despite her constant mishaps, she manages to save the school from a dangerous plot by a wicked witch, proving that she may not be the worst witch after all.

    The 17120th Greatest Book of All Time
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  12. 112. Dactyl Hill Squad by Daniel José Older

    "Dactyl Hill Squad" is an adventurous historical fiction novel set during the Civil War era. The story follows a group of young orphaned children who possess the ability to communicate with dinosaurs. When their home is attacked and their caretaker is kidnapped, they join a secret society of young rebels who ride dinosaurs to fight against the oppressive forces of the Confederacy. With their unique abilities and newfound allies, the children embark on a dangerous mission to rescue their friend and bring justice to their war-torn world.

    The 17120th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  13. 113. A Wind In The Door by Madeleine L'Engle

    In this fantastical science fiction novel, a young girl embarks on an extraordinary adventure to save her ailing brother. With the help of a few peculiar friends, including a cherubim and a teacher who transforms into a dragon, they journey into the microscopic universe within the brother's cells. There, they face the malevolent force of Echthroi, creatures determined to spread chaos and unmake the fabric of reality. As the protagonists confront challenges that test their courage and understanding of the universe, the story delves into themes of love, sacrifice, and the interconnectedness of all life, ultimately revealing that the fight to maintain balance and harmony is as much internal as it is external.

    The 17120th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  14. 114. Searching For Dragons by Patricia C. Wrede

    The Enchanted Forest Chronicles, Book Two

    In this enchanting fantasy sequel, a spirited princess teams up with the King of the Dragons to find a missing monarch and tackle the magical troubles plaguing the Enchanted Forest. Together with a cast of quirky characters, including a witch, a floating blue donkey, and a stone prince, they embark on a whimsical adventure that challenges traditional fairy tale norms. Through wit, courage, and clever problem-solving, they navigate a world where magic is real and dragons might not be what they seem, all while uncovering a deeper conspiracy and learning about the true nature of friendship and duty.

    The 17120th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  15. 115. Calling On Dragons by Patricia C. Wrede

    The Enchanted Forest Chronicles, Book 3

    In this enchanting fantasy novel, the third installment of a beloved series, a princess-turned-witch and her companions, including a talking cat and a dragon, embark on a whimsical adventure to stop an evil plot that threatens their kingdom. Along the way, they encounter a diverse cast of characters, including a witty magician and a mischievous young witch. With a blend of humor, magic, and a touch of romance, the group uses their wits and magical abilities to outsmart their enemies and protect their magical world from danger. The story is a celebration of friendship, ingenuity, and the importance of embracing one's unique talents.

    The 17120th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  16. 116. The Enchanted Castle by Edith Nesbit

    In this enchanting tale, three siblings, Gerald, Jimmy, and Kathleen, stumble upon a seemingly magical castle during their summer holidays. Inside, they discover a sleeping princess who turns out to be Mabel, the housekeeper's niece, playing a game. The children soon find a mysterious ring that grants wishes, leading them on a series of magical and often humorous adventures. As they navigate the wonders and perils of their newfound powers, they learn valuable lessons about friendship, responsibility, and the thin line between reality and imagination.

    The 16964th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  17. 117. Stone Fox by John Reynolds Gardiner

    In this heartwarming tale set in Wyoming, a young boy named Willy faces the challenge of saving his grandfather's farm from foreclosure. With his loyal dog, Searchlight, by his side, Willy enters a high-stakes dog sled race, hoping to win the prize money needed to pay off the debt. As he competes against seasoned racers, including the formidable Stone Fox, Willy's determination and courage are tested. The story explores themes of perseverance, friendship, and the bond between humans and animals, culminating in a poignant and unexpected conclusion.

    The 17120th Greatest Book of All Time
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  18. 118. In The Year Of The Boar And Jackie Robinson by Bette Bao Lord

    The story follows a young Chinese girl named Shirley Temple Wong, who immigrates to Brooklyn, New York, with her family in 1947. As she navigates the challenges of adapting to a new culture and language, Shirley finds solace and inspiration in the world of baseball, particularly through her admiration for Jackie Robinson, the first African American Major League Baseball player. Through her journey, Shirley learns about friendship, resilience, and the importance of embracing her dual identity, ultimately finding her place in her new American home.

    The 17120th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  19. 119. The Penderwicks by Jeanne Birdsall

    A Summer Tale of Four Sisters, Two Rabbits, and a Very Interesting Boy

    In this delightful and heartwarming tale, four spirited sisters embark on a summer adventure at a charming cottage in the Berkshires, where they encounter new friendships, unexpected challenges, and the enchanting beauty of the countryside. As they explore the sprawling estate, the sisters' bond grows stronger, and they learn valuable lessons about family, loyalty, and the magic of childhood. With a cast of endearing characters and a touch of whimsy, this story captures the essence of a perfect summer filled with laughter, mischief, and the simple joys of life.

    The 17120th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  20. 120. The Birchbark House by Louise Erdrich

    Set in the mid-19th century, this poignant tale follows the life of a young Ojibwe girl named Omakayas as she navigates the challenges and joys of her daily life on an island in Lake Superior. Through the changing seasons, Omakayas learns about her heritage, the natural world, and the complexities of human relationships. The story beautifully captures the intersection of tradition and change, as the Ojibwe community faces the encroaching influence of European settlers. With vivid descriptions and heartfelt moments, the narrative explores themes of family, resilience, and the deep connection to one's cultural roots.

    The 17120th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  21. 121. Wildful by Kengo Kurimoto

    In "Wildful," Poppy finds solace in the outdoors as her mother struggles with grief after the loss of Gran. Accompanied by her dog, Pepper, Poppy stumbles upon a hidden forest through a gap in the fence. There, she meets Rob, who introduces her to the wonders of nature. As Poppy explores, she discovers the magic of the wilderness, from blooming flowers to the gentle sounds of nature. Eager to share this newfound beauty with her mother, Poppy hopes to inspire her to see the world beyond the confines of their home. This graphic novel beautifully captures themes of healing, love, and the enchantment found in nature.

    The 17120th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  22. 122. The Partition Project by Saadia Faruqi

    In "The Partition Project," a young Pakistani American girl named Mahnoor navigates the challenges of having her grandmother, Dadi, move in with her family in Houston. As Mahnoor juggles her schoolwork and a documentary project for her journalism class, she discovers a compelling story in Dadi's past. Through conversations with her grandmother, Mahnoor learns about Dadi's childhood in northern India and the life-altering events of the Partition of India and Pakistan. This shared journey not only strengthens their bond but also provides Mahnoor with a meaningful subject for her documentary, blending personal history with her passion for journalism.

    The 17120th Greatest Book of All Time
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  23. 123. The Penultimate Peril by Lemony Snicket

    Book the Twelfth

    In this suspenseful installment, the Baudelaire orphans find themselves at the Hotel Denouement, a place teeming with mysterious guests and hidden agendas. As they navigate the hotel's perplexing layout, they must decipher a series of cryptic clues to uncover the truth about the elusive V.F.D. organization. With danger lurking around every corner and the sinister Count Olaf closing in, the siblings face moral dilemmas and difficult choices that test their courage and ingenuity. The story builds towards a climactic confrontation, leaving the orphans on the brink of uncovering long-held secrets.

    The 17120th Greatest Book of All Time
  24. 124. Fia And The Last Snow Deer by Eilish Fisher

    Fia and her reindeer, Solas, share a deep bond, having been born under the same solstice sky. As their village faces a relentless winter, the community sees Solas as both a source of sustenance and a key to fulfilling an ancient prophecy that promises the return of sunlight. Determined to protect Solas, Fia and her cousin Mish embark on a journey to find the Deer Mother, a mythical figure believed to awaken the sun. Their path is fraught with challenges and lurking dangers, but they hope to find a way to save Solas and restore light to their world. Set in a snowy, prehistoric Ireland, this story explores themes of hope, friendship, and resilience.

    The 17120th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  25. 125. The Nargun And The Stars by Patricia Wrightson

    Set in the rugged Australian bush, this enchanting tale follows a young orphan named Simon who moves to live with his relatives on a remote farm. As he adjusts to his new life, he discovers the mystical world of ancient spirits and creatures that inhabit the land. Among them is the Nargun, a mysterious and powerful stone being that becomes both a threat and a source of fascination. Through his encounters with these mythical entities, Simon learns about the deep connection between humans and nature, ultimately finding a sense of belonging and understanding of the world around him.

    The 17120th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from 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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