
Theodore Boone: Kid Lawyer
by John Grisham1 of 6
Theodore Boone is a thirteen-year-old who knows more about the law than most adults. Both of his parents are lawyers, and Theo spends his time hanging out at the courthouse, giving legal advice to his classmates, and dreaming of a future in the courtroom. However, his life takes a dramatic turn when he finds himself involved in the biggest murder trial in the history of his small town, Strattenburg. When Theo discovers a secret witness who could change everything, he must decide how to handle the truth while navigating a complex legal system.
This gripping legal thriller is perfect for children who love mysteries and detective stories. It is an ideal choice for readers interested in how the justice system works, featuring a protagonist who is smart, resourceful, and dedicated to doing what is right. John Grisham brings his expertise in legal suspense to a younger audience, creating a fast-paced narrative that keeps readers guessing until the very end. It is a great choice for fans of smart, logic-driven stories where a young person takes on big responsibilities.
Highlights:
- Introduces complex legal concepts in an accessible and exciting way for middle grade readers.
- Features a highly intelligent and relatable protagonist who uses his brain to solve problems.
- A high-stakes plot involving a murder trial that provides genuine suspense and tension.
- Explores important ethical questions about justice, secrets, and the law.

Theodore Boone: The Abduction
by John Grisham2 of 6
Theodore Boone is back in action in Theodore Boone: The Abduction, the second installment of John Grisham’s hit series for young readers. When Theo’s best friend, April Finnemore, disappears from her bedroom in the middle of the night, the small town of Strattenburg is thrown into a panic. With the police hitting dead ends and the town on edge, Theo must use his unique knowledge of the law and his sharp investigative instincts to track down his friend before it is too late.
This legal thriller is perfect for children who love high-stakes mysteries and smart, capable protagonists. Grisham masterfully translates the tension of a courtroom drama into a relatable middle-grade adventure, making complex legal concepts accessible and exciting. It is an ideal choice for readers interested in crime-solving, detective work, and stories where kids take the lead in solving adult-sized problems. The fast-paced plot and relatable characters make it a page-turner that keeps young readers engaged from start to finish.
Highlights:
- Features a smart, resourceful protagonist who uses logic and law to solve crimes.
- A suspenseful missing-person mystery that is age-appropriate yet thrilling.
- Introduces young readers to the basics of the legal system and police investigations.
- Great choice for fans of the Hardy Boys or Encyclopedia Brown looking for a modern update.

Theodore Boone: The Activist
by John Grisham4 of 6
Theodore Boone is back in his most high-stakes case yet in Theodore Boone: The Activist. When a controversial bypass road threatens to destroy local farmland and a beloved environmental site, the town of Strattenburg is split down the middle. Theo, the thirteen-year-old aspiring lawyer, finds himself at the center of the conflict. What starts as a local political debate quickly turns dangerous when Theo uncovers evidence of corruption and secret deals. This legal thriller is perfect for children who love smart protagonists, courtroom drama, and stories where young people take a stand against injustice.
Ideal for readers interested in environmental issues and the legal system, John Grisham brings his signature suspense to a younger audience. Theo is a relatable hero who uses his knowledge of the law to fight for his community. This book is a great choice for middle-grade readers who enjoy fast-paced mysteries and realistic fiction that tackles real-world problems. It encourages critical thinking about ethics, politics, and the power of activism.
Highlights:
- Engaging legal mystery that introduces kids to the judicial system and local government.
- Strong themes of environmental protection and standing up for one's beliefs.
- A smart, resourceful protagonist who relies on his wits rather than superpowers.
- Fast-paced plot with high stakes and suspenseful twists.

Theodore Boone: The Fugitive
by John Grisham5 of 6
Theodore Boone is back in another high-stakes legal thriller that will keep young readers on the edge of their seats. While on a school field trip to Washington, D.C., Theo spots a face he never expected to see again: Pete Duffy, the accused murderer who jumped bail and vanished. With his quick thinking and knowledge of the law, Theo plays a pivotal role in bringing the fugitive back to Strattenburg to face justice. However, the stakes have never been higher, as Duffy now knows exactly who Theo is, putting the young "kid lawyer" in more danger than ever before.
This fifth installment in John Grisham’s acclaimed series is perfect for children who love suspenseful mysteries and are interested in how the legal system works. It is an ideal choice for readers who enjoy fast-paced plots where a relatable protagonist must use their wits to solve complex problems. Parents looking for a smart, sophisticated series that encourages critical thinking and a sense of justice will find this book a great addition to their child's library.
Highlights:
- Engaging introduction to legal concepts and the justice system for young readers.
- A relatable and intelligent protagonist who relies on his brain rather than superpowers.
- High-stakes suspense that maintains a clean, age-appropriate tone.
- Part of a bestselling series that encourages a long-term love of reading.

Theodore Boone: The Scandal
by John Grisham6 of 6
Theodore Boone is back in another high-stakes legal drama that hits close to home. In Theodore Boone: The Scandal, thirteen-year-old Theo, Strattenburg’s favorite amateur lawyer, finds himself entangled in a massive cheating scandal involving standardized testing at a local middle school. When an anonymous tip sparks an investigation into suspiciously high scores, Theo must navigate a complex web of ethics, pressure, and secrets. This installment is perfect for children who love fast-paced mysteries and are interested in how the legal system works in real-world scenarios.
Ideal for readers interested in justice and moral dilemmas, John Grisham delivers a compelling story that balances courtroom intrigue with the everyday challenges of being a teenager. Whether Theo is advising his friends or standing up to school board officials, his dedication to the truth makes him a relatable and inspiring hero. This book is a great choice for fans of the Theodore Boone series or any young reader who enjoys a smart, suspenseful thriller that keeps them guessing until the final page.
Highlights:
- Engaging legal thriller specifically written for middle-grade readers.
- Explores relevant themes like academic integrity and the pressure of standardized testing.
- Features a smart, resourceful protagonist who uses his knowledge of the law to help others.
- Written by #1 New York Times bestselling author John Grisham.

Theodore Boone: The Accomplice
by John Grisham7 of 6
Theodore Boone is back in another high-stakes legal thriller that is perfect for children who love mysteries and courtroom drama. In The Accomplice, Theo faces his most personal case yet when his close friend, Woody Lambert, is arrested for a crime he didn't commit. Woody finds himself caught in the middle of an armed robbery, and the legal system isn't making it easy for him to prove his innocence. As a thirteen-year-old 'kid lawyer,' Theo must use all his knowledge of the law to navigate a complex and often unfair justice system to save his friend from a life-altering mistake.
Ideal for readers interested in law, justice, and social issues, this seventh installment in John Grisham’s acclaimed series combines edge-of-your-seat suspense with thought-provoking themes. It is a great choice for middle grade students who enjoy fast-paced stories where young protagonists take a stand against injustice. Parents will appreciate the educational value of the legal explanations and the strong moral compass of the main character.
Highlights:
- Engaging introduction to the American legal system and courtroom procedures.
- Strong themes of loyalty, friendship, and standing up for what is right.
- Fast-paced mystery that keeps readers guessing until the final verdict.
- Relatable protagonist who uses intelligence and research to solve problems.
