A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L’Engle

“I credit this classic science fiction novel about time and space as THE book that turned me into a reader as a kid. It will always be one of my favorite books.” — Gloria

The Scandalous Sisterhood of Prickwillow Place by Julie Berry

“This book grabs a hold of you from the very beginning and doesn’t let go. A funny murder mystery where everything that can go wrong does. Such fun!” — Brandon

Hour of the Bees by Lindsay Eagar

“Perfect for fans of realistic fiction like ‘Wonder’ and “Walk Two Moons” With its blend of a coming-of-age story, fable, tough issues, and a multicultural backdrop. this is sure to win the Newbery. Amazing!”

Echo by Pam Munoz Ryan

“This incredible book has something from everyone, weaving together a fairy tale, historical fiction, mystery, and realistic fiction. A beautiful and masterfully crafted story that has a permanent place on my shelves.” — Brandon

Gregor the Overlander by Suzanne Collins

“Imagine falling through the air vent down into a whole amazing world below us in the earth. It’s populated by people who have lived there for centuries as well as giant size talking creatures. This is one of my favorite adventure-fantasy series.” — Gloria

Harriet the Spy by Louise Fitzhugh

“Harriet the Spy is the tomato and mayo sandwich of the literary world. She is the stuffed bear still on my bed. She is the journals never to be thrown away. She is the epitome of growing up.” — Lisa

Shiloh by Phyllis Reynolds Naylor

“Shiloh taught me about love, compassion, friendship, and courage. This book also influenced me to BEG my mom to get us a beagle. Let’s just say my life was never the same!” — Lisa

The Cricket In Times Square by George Selden

“A cozy story of friendship, adventures, and travel. I loved this books as a little animal lover and it was just as good as I remembered when I read it to my son (and he loved it too!) — BE

A Year Without Mom by Dasha Tolstikova

“A lovely graphic memoir about growing up in late 20th century Russia. The illustrations and pacing make this story feel almost like you’re hearing from a friend over a cup of tea. What makes this book particularly poignant is how relatable and familiar the narrator’s story feels.” — BE

Book of Three by Lloyd Alexander

“I love this classic fantasy adventure because of the depth and range of its characters. Strong princesses (who do the rescuing)! Impetuous, hot headed pig keepers! Oracular pigs! Perfect for Hobbit lovers of all ages!” — BE

Theodosia and The Serpents Of Chaos by R. L. LaFevers

“I want to BE Theodosia. But I’m not sure I’m brave enough. Or smart enough. Or have the moxie. If you love Egyptology, mystery, and suspense, with a healthy dose of ancient dark magic thrown in, you’ll LOVE the Theodosia series.” — Barb

Finn Family Moomintroll by Tove Jansson

“A sweet, sometimes wistful, tale about the nature of friendship, full of all the magic and glory of summer. This is a great introduction to the family Moomintroll and will be equally loved by kids of all ages and adults alike. A great read aloud.” — BE

The Borrowers by Mary Norton

“The Borrowers by Mary Norton is by far the cutest story of tiny creatures in big places. Bottle caps are serving trays, match boxes are drawers, a sardine can is a make-shift bed. Find out what happens when a “human bean” discovers all that’s missing.” — Lisa

Hatchet by Gary Paulsen

“Thirteen years before reality show ‘survivor’ aired, 13 year old Brian Robeson encounters incessant insects, skunks, and black bears in hopes to survive the Canadian wilderness. How many days will his torch stay lit?” — Lisa

Counting by 7s by Holly Goldberg Sloan

“Sloan is a master at blending a misfit group of characters with real life issues and creating a story that is surprisingly funny, insightful, inspiring, and one you will remember for a very long time.” — Brian

The True Meaning Of Smekday by Adam Rex

“Aliens have taken over the world! This is a laugh out loud adventure story/road trip with a 12 year old girl (Tip) and an alien J.Lo) n search of Tip’s missing mom. The evolving relationship between Tip and J.Lo is not just really funny, but also very heart warming.” — Gloria

Julie Of The Wolves by Jean Craighead George

“A young girls trek across the Arctic Tundra is only made possible by her becoming a member of a pack of wolves. Her survival depends on them. This is a wonderful coming-of-age book.” — Gloria