Start with the intermediate level

This entertaining fantasy series debut by Roshani Chokshi stars the sympathetic and flawed heroine Aru Shah, who has a habit of making up lies. When three classmates ask her to prove that an ancient Indian artifact is cursed, she accidentally freezes her classmates and mother in time while awakening the God of Destruction. To save their lives, Aru embarks on an adventure to find the five reincarnations of the five Pandava brothers from the Indian epic Mahabharata and navigate the Kingdom of Death. Believe me: when you start this book, clear your schedule.

This innovative mid-level fantasy novel is written by MT Anderson, who writes the prose, and Eugene Yelchin, who illustrates the point of view of one of the characters. This friendship story follows Brangwain Spurge, an Elven diplomat, who ventures into rival Goblin territory, where he is greeted by a polite but terrifying helper in charge of his care. There are hijinks and action galore in this fun story.

Kwame Alexander Newbery Medal Winning Book Crossing is a feeling of a novel in verse. After the basketball dreams of 12-year-old Josh Bell, Crossing is a story of family and ambition. As Josh and his twin brother Jordan navigate college, they face not only tough opponents on the court, but challenges like romance as well. Alexander’s poetry skyrockets as he brings Josh’s unique voice to life.

This National Book Award winner from Thanhhà Lai is an autobiographical novel in verse about Lai’s childhood first in Vietnam, then after immigrating to America as refugees. The heroine Hà is an unforgettable protagonist who weaves lyrical poetry with a heartwarming story about courage, integration, friendship and family. One of the most acclaimed mid-level books and a new classic in the genre, you won’t be disappointed with Upside down and upside down.

British author David Walliams is often referred to as modern-day Roald Dahl, and for good reason: his books share with Dahl an eccentric dark sense of humor, infamous adults and child protagonists. Start with The midnight gang, a fun tale that reads faster than its 480 pages. This mid-level humorous novel follows Tom, who injures himself in gym class and is taken to the hospital. Tom is sent to the children’s wing where he meets a daring group of sick children who do silly things every night.

This graphic novel by Newbery Medal winner Jerry Craft tells the story of Grade 7 Jordan Banks at a new private school on the other side of town, outside of his predominantly black community. A budding designer, Jordan tries to fit in while devoting time and attention to his love of art. You’ll cheer on Jordan as he faces challenges like navigating two worlds at home and at school, finding friends, and succeeding in his rigorous new education.

From author Sharon Creech, Save Winslow is the sweet and tender story of a boy who tries to save a baby donkey. Charlotte’s canvas fans will find much to love in this tale featuring a brave animal and his eccentric young human companion, Louie, who is sorely missed by his brother deployed overseas. As Louie treats the sickly donkey Winslow, he makes a new friend and finds support from his family.

Kekla Magoon’s The season of Styx Malone is the quintessential summer story. When the brothers Caleb and Bobby Gene meet their daring new neighbor Styx Malone, their lives are transformed by Styx with all his flash and bravado. But Styx hides his own secrets, and as the summer progresses, Caleb and Bobby Gene see their friendship with him put to the test. Magoon has perfectly distilled the magic of summer in this acclaimed story.

This spooky horror and fantasy work by Katherine Arden stars 11-year-old Ollie, who lives with his father after his mother’s recent death. Ollie discovers a secret book that tells the chilling past of his small New England town. Then, on a trip to a local farm, Ollie and two unlikely allies get lost in the woods as a sinister force stalks them. Imaginative with building a complex world, this book and its brave heroine will stay with you long after you finish the last page.

This charming graphic novel by Jen Wang follows the unlikely friendship between two young neighbors, Moon and Christine. Quick friends, these girls bond around in music videos and plan to perform at the school talent show together. Moon even shares his secret visions of the gods with Christine. But when Moon falls ill, Christine learns what it’s like to be a best friend.