Looking for the best books for 6th graders that will have them begging to stay up late reading? As a former school librarian and mom, I know how important it is to find books that kids genuinely WANT to read. Based on the books my own children and former students have loved, I’ve put together a list packed with kid appeal.
From laugh-out-loud funny books and gripping mysteries to exciting fantasy series, realistic fiction, and graphic novels, this list is filled with middle grade books that 11- and 12-year-olds won’t want to put down!
Whether your sixth grader is a reluctant reader, a graphic novel enthusiast, or a bookworm who devours an entire series in a weekend, you’ll find plenty of recommendations to help them discover their next favorite book.
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FANTASY & SCI-FI SERIES WORTH GETTING HOOKED ON
Keeper of the Lost Cities (series) by Shannon Messenger
Sophie has never felt like she fit in and for good reason. Sophie is a Telepath and has the ability to read minds. When she meets Fitz and discovers that she is actually an elf, her whole world is turned upside down and she sets off to uncover the secrets to her true identity and her past. My son was initially intimidated by the length of this book, but after giving it a try, he immediately devoured the entire series.
The Last Dragon on Mars by Scott Reintgen
Set in a distant future where humans have colonized Mars and discovered that every planet, moon, and star has its own dragon, the story follows thirteen-year-old orphan Lunar Jones as he struggles to survive in the Martian wastelands. When he accidentally uncovers a secret training site, Lunar is chosen by a mysterious dragon to become its new leader.
Packed with adventure, mystery, and unexpected twists, this thrilling tale ends on a cliffhanger that will leave readers eager for the next installment in this stellar series. My 7th grader devoured the first and second book in this series and he is anxiously awaiting the third.
Amari and the Night Brothers by B.B Alston, 2021
When Amari Peters receives a mysterious invitation to try out for the Bureau of Supernatural Affairs, she’s sure it holds the key to finding her missing brother. Suddenly, she’s thrust into a hidden world where magic is real, mythical creatures exist, and she must compete against kids who’ve grown up around it. With a forbidden power she can’t control and an evil magician threatening everything, Amari’s courage and determination make her a heroine readers will cheer for.
Nevermoor by Jessica Townsend, 2018
Born on the unlucky day of Eventide, Morrigan Crow is believed to be cursed and blamed for every misfortune that surrounds her. Her luck changes, however, when she’s whisked away to a magical city by the mysterious Jupiter North, who invites her to compete for a place in the prestigious Wundrous Society. Filled with lovable characters, rich imagination, and boundless adventure, readers will be eager to join Morrigan in the enchanting world of Nevermoor.
Greenwild by Pari Thomson
Daisy Thistledown has been living an incredible life of adventure travelling the world with her mother. When her mom disappears, however, Daisy is thrown into a secret world full of magic hidden within elements of nature. She must work with the inhabitants to protect Greenwild from those who want to destroy it. Fantasy lovers won’t be able to resist this well-crafted story.
The Lightning Thief (Percy Jackson and the Olympians series) by Rick Riordan
Full of humor and action, this exciting series about Greek mythology has remained popular for years for good reason. When Percy Jackson is attacked by a fury at a museum, his mother reveals that he is actually a demi-god and he is sent to Camp Half Blood to be with other children of Greek gods. He is quickly accused of stealing Zeus’ lightning bolt and embarks upon a quest to clear his name and stop a war among the gods. This is an exciting series that is perfect for reluctant readers.
A Tale Dark and Grimm (series) by Adam Gidwitz, illustrated by Hugh D’Andrade
Not for the faint of heart, this clever and creepy twist on Hansel and Gretel is oddly compelling. My kids also loved Adam Gidwitz’s podcast Grimm, Grimmer, Grimmest, which shares classic Grimm fairy tales.
Nic Blake and the Remarkables (series) by Angie Thomas
Nic Blake and her dad belong to a hidden magical society called the Remarkables. They’ve been living undercover in the human world until Nic’s twelfth birthday, when a shocking betrayal sends her, her best friend, and the brother she never knew existed on a thrilling quest to find a powerful magical tool and uncover the truth about her past.
This fast-paced adventure masterfully blends African American history and folklore with mythology and magic. With rich world-building and relatable characters, it’s a powerful story of courage, identity, and the meaning of family.
Skandar and the Unicorn Thief (series) by A.F. Steadman
Prepare to be thrust into a riveting world where unicorns exist, but they are fierce bloodthirsty creatures that bond with humans to unlock immense power. Skandar has always dreamed of being a Unicorn Rider, but when his opportunity finally comes, everything goes horribly wrong.
Forced to hide a dangerous secret, he must now uncover the truth behind an evil villain building a deadly unicorn army. Packed with action, mystery, and magic, this thrilling adventure will keep readers on the edge of their seats.
MYSTERIES AND THRILLERS THAT KEEP KIDS GUESSING
Spy School by Stuart Gibbs, illustrated by Anjan Sarker
Due to his extraordinary gaming and math skills, Ben Ripley is recruited to the CIA’s Academy of Espionage. He quickly discovers there is danger and deception lurking at every corner. As he sharpens his skills and makes new friends, he must also find his way through several comical mishaps and discover who is framing him for a crime.
The Sherlock Society by James Ponti
When siblings Alex and Zoe Sherlock team up with two friends and their grandfather to start a detective agency, their search for a legendary lost treasure leads them into a much bigger mystery involving Al Capone and a dangerous conspiracy. Packed with clever clues, unexpected twists, and plenty of humor, this fast-paced adventure is a fantastic choice for kids who love solving mysteries alongside the characters!
Escape from Mr. Lemoncello’s Library by Chris Grabenstein
Considered the world’s most famous game creator, Mr. Lemoncello has quite a reputation in his home town. When he decides to build a brand-new local library filled with more than just mesmerizing stories, a group of twelve year-olds eagerly volunteer to be the first ones in. They spend the night completing challenge after challenge attempting to escape from the library and win the grand prize. Filled with puzzles, puns, and lots of fun, this book is such a joy!
Framed by James Ponti
Twelve-year-old Florian Bates isn’t your average kid. His sharp intellect and extraordinary observation skills make him a natural detective. When he and his neighbor, Margaret, stumble upon a clue to a stolen masterpiece at the National Gallery of Art, they quickly find themselves on the radar of both the FBI and a dangerous thief.
My son devoured this thrilling three-book series, loving its fast pace and clever twists.
City of Ember by Jeanne DuPrau
Two hundred years after a catastrophic disaster, the last surviving humans live in the underground City of Ember, where the lights are beginning to fail and darkness threatens to consume everything. When Lina and her friend Doon discover a mysterious ancient message, they must uncover the secret to saving their city before it’s too late.
The Westing Game by Ellen Raskin
The Westing Game is such a clever and unique mystery filled with twists, wordplay, and unforgettable characters. After the wealthy Samuel W. Westing dies, sixteen unlikely heirs are invited to compete in a puzzling game to uncover his killer and inherit his fortune. Smart, funny, and endlessly surprising, this award-winning classic keeps readers guessing until the very last page and is a fantastic choice for kids who love mysteries and puzzles. This is one of my favorites from childhood and I’m thrilled that my daughter loves it just as much as I do.
The Midwatch Institute for Wayward Girls by Judith Rossell
This enchanting story features a group of bold young girls who form strong friendships at a secret academy where they learn survival training, mystery-solving, and secret sleuthing. Join Maggie Fishbone as she teams up with her classmates to save their city from a cunning villain.
FUNNY BOOKS WITH PLENTY OF LAUGHS
The Last Kids on Earth by Max Brallier; illustrated by Douglas Holgate
When a monster apocalypse turns his town upside down, thirteen-year-old Jack Sullivan transforms his tree house into the ultimate survival headquarters and teams up with his friends to battle zombies, monsters, and other terrifying creatures. With hilarious illustrations, nonstop action, and plenty of laugh-out-loud moments, this wildly entertaining series is an especially fun choice for kids who love humor mixed with adventure.
Slugfest by Gordon Korman
When star athlete Yash discovers he has to attend summer school because of a mix-up with his physical education credit, he finds himself stuck in a PE class with a hilarious group of misfits who would rather be anywhere else. Filled with ridiculous situations, unexpected friendships, and Gordon Korman’s signature humor, this laugh-out-loud funny story is a fantastic choice for middle schoolers, especially sports fans and reluctant readers!
Really Rubie by Maddie Frost
This highly illustrated and hilarious book follows the exuberant Rubie Fox as she heads to sleepaway camp for the first time the summer before sixth grade. When her best friend Riley breaks her ankle and can no longer attend, Rubie must navigate camp and all the drama that comes with it on her own, including new friendships, a first crush, and plenty of unexpected challenges.
The energetic, hilarious illustrations are a perfect match for Rubie’s big personality and add even more humor to the story. I loved watching Rubie navigate the ups and downs of camp, make new friends, and grow along the way. This is such a fun choice for Diary of a Wimpy Kid fans or kids who love highly illustrated stories filled with humor and friendship. I can’t wait to read more of Rubie’s adventures!
The Strange Case of Origami Yoda by Tom Angleberger
Dwight may be a goofy sixth-grade boy known for his quirky behavior, so when he creates an origami Yoda finger puppet that can predict the future and offers shockingly helpful advice, his classmates are mystified. This comical story is a fun look at trying to navigate the varying social aspects of sixth grade.
Frazzled: Every Day Disasters and Impending Doom by Booki Vivat
(Ages 10 and up)
Soon-to-be sixth grader Abbie Wu is totally freaking out. As the middle child, she feels like everyone around her has a “thing” that makes them special except her. While she’s a bit neurotic, Abbie is also kindhearted, relatable, and easy to root for as she navigates the ups and downs of middle school. Her journey to find her place is both hilarious and heartfelt, making this a fun and engaging read for anyone who’s ever felt a little lost in the middle.
REALISTIC FICTION SIXTH GRADERS CAN RELATE TO
Goodbye French Fry by Rin Rin Yu
Ping Ping is the kind of character I wish my daughter could be friends with in real life! Smart, kind, and passionate about taekwondo, she’s navigating all the ups and downs of growing up, from friendship drama and a particularly obnoxious bully to feeling caught between her Chinese and American identities. As if that weren’t enough, her family might be moving to Kenya! What I especially loved about Ping Ping is that she isn’t afraid to stand up for herself or call out others when they don’t do the right thing. Filled with relatable school experiences, humor, and heartfelt moments, this wonderfully authentic story captures the challenges of growing up while celebrating the importance of courage, kindness, and forgiveness.
Restart by Gordon Korman
What if you woke up one day with no memory of who you were, only to discover that you used to be the school bully? After a fall leaves Chase with amnesia, he returns to middle school and can’t understand why some classmates are terrified of him while others treat him like a hero. This clever, thought-provoking story about second chances, friendship, and the possibility of change is a fantastic choice for middle school readers and book clubs.
The Academy (series) by T.Z. Layton
When twelve-year-old Leo earns a chance to compete at an elite soccer academy in England, he must battle fierce competition, homesickness, and self-doubt as he chases his dream of becoming a professional player. Fast-paced and full of heart, this is a fantastic pick for soccer fans and readers who love underdog stories.
Shook by Julian Randall, illustrated by Nathan Walker
This novel in verse is utterly fantastic. Star basketball player Malik Page is forced to confront his anxiety while recovering from an injury the summer before eighth grade. More than just a compelling sports story, Shook uses a variety of poetic forms and literary techniques to bring Malik’s emotional journey vividly to life while exploring family, friendship, and the pressures he places on himself. It’s powerful, creative, and incredibly moving. I can absolutely understand why it’s a National Book Award nominee!
Finally Heard by Kelly Yang
While attempting to bring more attention to her homemade bath bomb business, Lina’s mom accidentally creates a viral video. Feeling inspired, Lina and her friends embark on a tumultuous journey navigating the ins and outs of social media. With challenging group chats, perceived reality, and online safety issues, this book is a must-read for conversations on the pitfalls of social media.
The Vanderbeekers of 141st Street (series) by Karina Yan Glaser
This heartwarming story stars the Vanderbeeker family made up of five children and their parents who reside in their beloved brownstone home in Harlem. Unfortunately, their landlord and grumpy upstairs neighbor, Mr. Beiderman, has decided not to renew their lease and they must evacuate within weeks. The plucky children immediately begin brainstorming ways to change Mr. Beiderman’s mind to allow them to stay. There is wonderful character development and a lot to love about this sweet and loving family and their tight-knit-community.
ACTION-PACKED ADVENTURES
City Spies (series) by James Ponti
When twelve-year-old Sara is recruited by a mysterious British agent, she becomes part of an elite group of kids who use their unique talents to carry out dangerous missions around the world. Packed with action, clever twists, humor, and plenty of suspense, this fast-paced series is a fantastic choice for kids who love spy adventures!
Refugee by Alan Gratz
Alan Gratz is a must-read middle grade author who brings history to life through immersive, emotionally resonant storytelling. In Refugee, readers follow three gripping, alternating narratives including a Jewish boy fleeing Nazi Germany, a Cuban girl braving the ocean on a homemade raft, and a Syrian boy escaping the devastation of war. Each story highlights the courage and resilience of young people in the face of unimaginable danger.
Gratz’s vivid writing and well-developed characters help readers develop empathy and a greater understanding of both historical and current global crises. Both my son and daughter have devoured his books, and I highly recommend them
A Night Divided by Jennifer A. Nielsen
This suspenseful historical fiction is set in East Berlin during the Cold War. After the Berlin Wall suddenly divides her family, twelve-year-old Gerta dreams of escaping to freedom and reuniting with her father and brother on the other side. Filled with danger, bravery, and hope, this gripping story keeps readers on the edge of their seats while offering an unforgettable look at life behind the Berlin Wall.
The Last Musketeer by Stuart Gibbs
This action-packed adventure filled with sword fights, time travel, secret plots, and nonstop excitement is a ton of fun to read. When Greg Rich’s parents disappear, he is unexpectedly pulled back in time to seventeenth-century France where he joins the legendary Three Musketeers on a dangerous mission. My tween son absolutely loved this series and flew through every book.
BOOKS WITH CHARACTERS YOU’LL NEVER FORGET
Out of My Mind by Sharon Draper
This exceptional story is from the point of view of Melody, a girl with a photographic memory whose genius goes unnoticed due to her cerebral palsy. Unable to walk, talk, or write, Melody has not been able to share her intelligence until now. This deeply moving story about a girl who refuses to be defined by her disability is a must-read!
The Undead Fox of Deadwood Forest by Aubrey Hartman
This is a beautifully unique and deeply moving Newbery Honor book that my daughter and I absolutely couldn’t put down. After being hit by a car, Clare the fox becomes an Usher in Deadwood Forest, guiding souls to their final resting place. But when a mysterious badger proves immune to Clare’s abilities, the unlikely pair embarks on an unforgettable journey to uncover the truth. Filled with mystery, humor, heart, and unforgettable characters, this exceptional story stays with readers long after the final page.
The War That Saved My Life by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley
This deeply moving historical fiction set during WWII follows Ada, a young girl born with a clubfoot who escapes her abusive mother and discovers courage, friendship, and self-worth after being evacuated from London during the war. Filled with heart, resilience, and unforgettable characters, this beautifully written book is an outstanding choice for readers who enjoy emotional, character-driven stories and meaningful historical fiction.
The Penderwicks: a summer tale of four sisters, two rabbits, and a very interesting boy (series) by Jeanne Birdsall
This modern-day classic stars a family of four sisters who travel with their widowed father to an enchanting estate called Arundel for the summer. Each sister has a uniquely captivating personality and their adventures with a young boy named Jeffrey are nothing short of delightful!
Wonder by R. J. Palacio
Wonder is easily one of my top ten middle grade books of all time. Told through multiple points of view, the story follows Auggie, a boy born with a facial difference, as he attends school for the very first time. Heartfelt, powerful, and unforgettable, this beautiful novel explores empathy, kindness, compassion, and acceptance in a way that stays with readers long after they finish the final page. I can’t recommend this one highly enough.
Holes by Louis Sachar
After being wrongly accused of a crime, Stanley Yelnats is sent to a juvenile detention camp in the Texas desert, where the boys are forced to dig enormous holes every day. But Stanley soon suspects there’s a mysterious reason behind all that digging. Filled with humor, surprising connections, and unexpected twists, this brilliantly plotted story is one of those books that gets better with every chapter.
ENGAGING GRAPHIC NOVELS
New Kid by Jerry Craft
While he would prefer to attend an art school, Jordan Banks is starting his seventh-grade year at a prestigious private school where he will be one of only a few students of color. Torn between his old friends and lifestyle in his Washington Heights neighborhood and his preppy new school filled with unfamiliar and often uncomfortable situations, Jordan must learn who he is and what he wants out of life.
The Princess Academy by Shannon Hale
This captivating graphic novel adaptation is filled with friendship, courage, and self-discovery. When Miri and the other girls from her mountain village are sent to a special academy to prepare for the prince to choose a future princess, Miri begins to uncover her own strengths and the true meaning of leadership. With gorgeous artwork and an engaging story full of heart and adventure, this is a fantastic choice for readers who enjoy fantasy, strong female characters, and graphic novels with depth.
Sweet Valley Twins: Best Friends by Nicole Andelfinger, illustrated by Claudia Aguirre
Inseparable twins Elizabeth and Jessica start middle school as close as ever, but are quickly pulled apart by their different interests. When Jessica joins a popular clique called The Unicorns, Elizabeth must decide whether to follow or stay true to her passion for the school newspaper.
Packed with sibling drama, friendship struggles, and first crushes, this story follows Elizabeth and Jessica as they navigate identity, loyalty, and growing up.
Mixed Feelings by Sara Amini, illustrated by Shadia Amin
This funny and relatable graphic memoir perfectly captures how overwhelming middle school can feel when everything seems to be changing at once. Sara is navigating new body hair, a best friend who has grown closer to someone else, her first crush, and questions about where she fits as she moves between the Spanish, Farsi, and English spoken in her multicultural family. Along the way, she begins forming new friendships and finds a place where she feels like she belongs when she joins the school play.
I loved the expressive, comical illustrations, which capture Sara’s roller coaster of emotions so well. I also listened to the audiobook and thought the narration and soundscapes brought the story to life. This is such a relatable read for tweens navigating all the awkward changes that come with growing up and figuring out who they are. The book also includes a helpful glossary of the Spanish and Farsi words used throughout the story.
Four Eyes by Rex Ogle, illustrated by Dave Valeza
When Rex is forced to get giant glasses before starting sixth grade, he suddenly finds himself dealing with bullying, embarrassment, and the awkward challenges of fitting in. Filled with humor and heart, this engaging coming-of-age story captures the ups and downs of middle school in a way that feels authentic and unforgettable.
Frizzy by Claribel A. Ortega, illustrated by Rose BousamraMarlene hates spending every weekend at the salon trying to straighten her curly hair to fit her family’s idea of beauty, but with the help of her aunt, she begins to discover the confidence to love herself just as she is. Honest, relatable, and beautifully illustrated, this powerful story sparks meaningful conversations about self-acceptance and belonging.
The Baby-Sitters Club series by various illustrators adapted from author Ann M. Martin
My daughter absolutely devoured these graphic novels, and I completely understand why they’re so popular! Each member of the Baby-Sitters Club has a distinct personality, and watching the girls navigate everything from babysitting mishaps to disagreements within the group is half the fun. There’s something especially appealing about a series where teamwork, independence, and friendship are all part of the adventure.
Chickenpox by Remy Lai
When Abby is forced to spend the summer helping take care of her younger siblings, including her annoying little brother Peter, who suddenly comes down with chickenpox, nothing goes according to plan. Filled with humor, relatable family moments, and expressive illustrations, this fun and engaging story perfectly captures the ups and downs of growing up and learning to appreciate the people around you.
Roller Girl by Victoria Jamieson
Twelve-year-old Astrid has always done everything with her best friend Nicole, but when the two spend the summer before junior high at different camps, Astrid at roller derby camp and Nicole at dance camp, their friendship begins to change in unexpected ways. As Astrid pushes herself to keep up with the older girls in roller derby, she also learns important lessons about friendship, confidence, and finding her own identity. Filled with humor, heart, and expressive illustrations, this award-winning graphic novel perfectly captures the excitement and growing pains of adolescence.
Smile by Raina Telgemeier
In this funny and relatable graphic memoir, Raina’s accidental fall leads to years of dental drama, all while she’s navigating the ups and downs of middle school friendships, crushes, and growing up. With its expressive illustrations, laugh-out-loud moments, and painfully relatable middle school experiences, Smile perfectly captures the awkwardness of adolescence and the importance of learning to be comfortable with who you are.
FOR MATURE SIXTH GRADE READERS READY FOR MORE
The Hunger Games series by Suzanne Collins
When sixteen-year-old Katniss Everdeen volunteers to take her younger sister’s place in the Hunger Games, she must fight for survival in a brutal televised competition where only one contestant can win. Filled with heart-pounding suspense, unexpected twists, and unforgettable characters, this addictive dystopian series had my own sixth grader begging to stay up late reading!
Note: Recommended for mature readers due to violence, death, and disturbing themes.
The Maze Runner by James Dashner
When Thomas wakes up in a strange place called the Glade with no memory of his past, he discovers he is trapped inside a massive maze surrounded by deadly creatures and mysterious secrets. Filled with twists, action, and high-stakes survival, this gripping novel keeps readers guessing until the very last page and is a fantastic choice for teens who love suspenseful, adrenaline-filled stories.
Note: Recommended for mature readers due to violence, death, and disturbing themes.
Check out more Middle Grade faves here.
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