Amazing Middle Grade Reads! Tonya Duncan Ellis

So many books, so little time! My to-be-read pile gets higher and higher as I discover interesting reads. Here are a few middle grade children’s books I’ve recently liked that I recommend for young readers: 

Feyi Fay and the Case of the Mysterious Madame Koi Koi by Simisayo Brownstone – A children’s book about a chocolate-colored fairy from a Wakandaesque world? Count me in! Feyi Fay and the Case of the Mysterious Madam Koi Koi features a whimsical human-sized fairy whose assignment is to help children solve their problems. I loved the idea of a brown skinned fairy from a magical African-like land who sports cowrie beads and braids, and I also liked how the author introduces young readers to other countries and cultures. This imaginative and fun adventure is sure to please its intended audience. Ages 6-10

Out of My Mind by Sharon Draper – This book’s been on the shelf in my house for awhile, and when I heard it was being made into a movie I finally got around to reading it. Sharon Draper expertly shows life through the eyes of an exceptionally bright girl with cerebral palsy, who after years of silence is given a way to share her thoughts and feelings with family and peers through the use of a special computer. I was actually crying tears midway through this novel. It gives you ALL the feels. I’ll never look at a disabled person the same way again.  Ages 10 and up

Jada Jones: Dancing Queen by Kelly Starling Lyons – It’s school Caring Week, and the student council comes up with the perfect way to raise money to buy coats for needy kids: a school dance! The students get sponsors to pay them for doing dances like the Cupid Shuffle, the Whip and Nae Nae, and the Floss. Main character Jada is all for giving, except for one problem, she has two left feet. As a person who hides in the back row during line dances, I definitely could sympathize with little Jada as she struggles to master the latest dance crazes for a cause. Along the way, she learns that doing the steps perfectly doesn’t matter, it’s the feeling that counts. This is a super cute book with a sweet message, just as with dancing, the best giving comes from the heart.  Ages 6-8

Nikki and Deja: Election Madness by Karen English – Third grader Deja is running for student body president and takes the idea of leadership too far when she bosses her campaign manager and best friend Nikki and other members of the class around in her efforts to win. Not surprisingly, her friendships take a hit and she has to learn the hard way that winning may not be everything. This funny and realistic book teaches kids the necessity of maintaining relationships while competing.  Ages 6-9

 

Tonya Duncan Ellis is author of the Amazon Best Selling, Readers’ Favorite “Five Star” rated Sophie Washington children’s book series, geared toward readers ages 8-12 and is a member of the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI).
www.tonyaduncanellis.com
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Check out my newest release, Sophie Washington: Mismatch!

 

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