Heartwarming tales of resilience in new middle grade books

In a recent book review session, several new titles aimed at middle-grade and teen readers were highlighted, showcasing a range of themes from personal struggles to historical mysteries.

The first book discussed was \"Not Nothing\" by Gail Forman, which follows 12-year-old Alex, a boy grappling with anger issues and living with a strict aunt. After landing in trouble, Alex is assigned community service at a retirement home, where he forms a poignant connection with a silent resident. This story, praised for its emotional depth and historical ties, received starred reviews from major publications.

Next, \"The 10th Mistake of Hank Hooperman\" by Jennifer Chokendo tells the story of 11-year-old Hank, who must care for his toddler sister Boo after their mother goes missing for a week. The narrative explores themes of family dynamics and the challenges of foster care, resonating with readers through its blend of heartbreak and hope.

Shifting to graphic novels, \"How It All Ends\" by Emma Hunsinger features 13-year-old Tara, an anxious but gifted girl who skips eighth grade and navigates the complexities of high school life, including friendships and first crushes. This title captures the essence of middle school angst and is recommended for young readers.

Another graphic novel, \"We Are Big Time\" by Hana Khan, follows Aaliyah and her siblings as they move from Florida to Wisconsin. Aaliyah's passion for basketball leads her to join a struggling team at her new Islamic school, where she learns about teamwork and self-confidence.

\"Dear Dad: Growing Up with a Parent in Prison\" by JJ Pattern, Kiara Valdez, and Marquia Janae offers a unique perspective on family relationships affected by incarceration. The story follows JJ as she connects with her father through letters and coding, providing a much-needed narrative for children with incarcerated parents.

In the teen fiction category, \"The Bletchley Riddle\" by Bridal Ceptis and Steve Schenken is a historical mystery set during World War II, where siblings Jacob and Lizzie work to decode the Nazis' Enigma Cipher while unraveling the mystery of their mother's disappearance.

Lastly, \"When the World Tips Over\" by Jandy Nelson, set in Northern California, explores the lives of the Fall siblings, each dealing with their father's mysterious disappearance in different ways. This epistolary novel promises a blend of magic and emotional depth, making it a highly anticipated release.

These titles reflect a diverse array of experiences and challenges faced by young readers, offering both entertainment and valuable life lessons.