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Books about bullying

64 books with this theme • Page 1 of 3

All's Faire in Middle School by Victoria Jamieson

All's Faire in Middle School

by Victoria Jamieson

Imogene (Impy) has grown up in a world of knights, squires, and fair maidens. Having been homeschooled by her parents who work at the local Renaissance Faire, Impy is finally ready to take on her biggest quest yet: public middle school. She wants to prove she is brave and loyal, just like a real squire, but she soon discovers that the social hierarchy of the sixth grade is far more treacherous than any medieval battleground.

As Impy struggles to fit in with the popular crowd, she finds herself making choices that don't align with her family's values or her own sense of honor. This vibrant graphic novel is a perfect choice for readers who enjoy stories about the awkwardness of growing up and the importance of staying true to oneself. It is an ideal pick for children who love Roller Girl or Raina Telgemeier's Smile, offering a unique blend of humor and heart-wrenching relatability.

Highlights:

  • Unique and colorful Renaissance Faire setting that brings the story to life.
  • Relatable exploration of middle school social dynamics and the pressure to fit in.
  • Strong focus on family bonds and the challenges of navigating new friendships.
  • Engaging graphic novel format that appeals to visual learners and reluctant readers.
Ages 10-11Middle Grade
Middle Grade FictionGraphic Novels and Comics+2 more
American Born Chinese by Gene Luen Yang

American Born Chinese

by Gene Luen Yang

American Born Chinese is a groundbreaking graphic novel that masterfully weaves together three seemingly different stories into one powerful narrative. Readers follow Jin Wang, a teenager struggling to fit into a new school where he is the only Chinese-American student; the legendary Monkey King, who seeks to be more than just a monkey; and Chin-Kee, a character who embodies the most hurtful stereotypes. This award-winning book is perfect for children who love graphic novels that balance humor with deep, meaningful messages about belonging and self-acceptance.

Ideal for readers interested in diverse perspectives and modern fables, Gene Luen Yang’s work is a must-read for middle and high schoolers. It offers a unique look at the immigrant experience and the internal struggle to embrace one's heritage. This action-packed story is a great choice for fans of New Kid or The Arrival, providing a visual and emotional journey that culminates in an unforgettable climax.

Highlights:

  • Winner of the Michael L. Printz Award and an Eisner Award.
  • Explores complex themes of racial identity and cultural stereotypes in an accessible format.
  • Features a clever blend of ancient Chinese folklore and modern-day realism.
  • Engaging artwork that brings the emotional weight of the story to life.
Ages 12-14Young Adult
Graphic Novels and ComicsYoung Adult+3 more
Aniceto, el vencecangelos by Consuelo Armijo

Aniceto, el vencecangelos

by Consuelo Armijo

Aniceto, el vencecangelos es una obra entrañable de Consuelo Armijo que narra la transformación de un niño marcado por sus temores y las burlas de sus compañeros. A través de un viaje tanto físico como emocional, Aniceto descubre que el miedo se vence enfrentándolo y que la acción es el mejor remedio contra la inseguridad. Es una lectura ideal para niños que disfrutan de historias donde la realidad se mezcla con la fantasía, enfrentando desde monstruos marinos y brujas hasta los desafíos cotidianos de la escuela.

Este libro es perfecto para lectores que buscan personajes con los que identificarse, especialmente aquellos que están aprendiendo a ganar confianza en sí mismos y a valorarse. Con un tono humorístico y cercano, la historia acompaña a Aniceto mientras crece, asume responsabilidades en su primer trabajo y encuentra su lugar en el mundo. Es una excelente elección para padres que desean fomentar la resiliencia y la inteligencia emocional en sus hijos a través de un clásico de la literatura infantil española.

Highlights:

  • Una historia inspiradora sobre cómo superar el miedo al fracaso y las burlas de los demás.
  • Combina situaciones de la vida real con elementos fantásticos como brujas y monstruos.
  • Promueve valores fundamentales como el autorespeto, la valentía y la madurez personal.
  • Escrito por la reconocida autora Consuelo Armijo, ideal para fomentar el hábito de la lectura.
Ages 8-9Middle Grade
AventurasFantasía+2 more
Auggie & Me by R.J. Palacio

Auggie & Me

by R.J. Palacio

Auggie & Me is an essential companion to the beloved bestseller Wonder, offering readers a deeper look into the world of August Pullman through the eyes of three different characters. Instead of a direct sequel, this book provides three unique perspectives: Julian, the classroom bully; Christopher, Auggie’s oldest friend; and Charlotte, a classmate. These stories expand on the themes of the original novel, showing that every story has multiple sides and that even those who seem like villains have their own struggles and growth.

This book is perfect for children who love character-driven stories and are interested in exploring complex social dynamics. It is an ideal choice for readers who were moved by Wonder and want to understand the motivations behind the characters' actions. Parents will appreciate how it encourages empathy and the 'choose kind' philosophy, making it a great tool for discussing bullying and friendship. Whether your child is a fan of the original movie or the book, this collection offers a heartbreaking yet hopeful look at the power of compassion.

Highlights:

  • Explores three distinct viewpoints that add depth to the Wonder universe.
  • Focuses on emotional intelligence, empathy, and the complexity of childhood friendships.
  • Perfect for fans of realistic fiction and stories that promote kindness.
  • Ideal for classroom discussions or family reading time.
Ages 10-11Middle Grade
Middle Grade FictionContemporary and Realistic Fiction+1 more
Awkward by Svetlana Chmakova

Awkward

by Svetlana Chmakova

Peppi Torres is just trying to survive her first day at Berrybrook Middle School when she makes a huge mistake. In a moment of panic to avoid being teased, she trips a quiet boy named Jamie and runs away. This "awkward" moment haunts her as she tries to find her place in the school's competitive club scene. Joining the Art Club seems like a great idea, but soon she finds herself caught in a fierce rivalry with the Science Club, where Jamie just happens to be a star member.

Svetlana Chmakova's Awkward is a masterclass in middle school dynamics, capturing the genuine anxiety and humor of pre-teen life. It is perfect for children who love graphic novels like Raina Telgemeier's Smile or Victoria Jamieson's Roller Girl. This story is an ideal choice for readers interested in school stories that balance lighthearted comedy with meaningful lessons about kindness, making amends, and standing up for what is right.

Highlights:

  • Relatable exploration of social anxiety and middle school "rules."
  • Engaging rivalry between the Art Club and the Science Club.
  • Diverse cast of characters with distinct personalities and backgrounds.
  • Beautifully illustrated panels that bring the school setting to life.
Ages 10-11Middle Grade
Graphic Novels and ComicsMiddle Grade Fiction+3 more
Babymouse: Babymouse for President by Jennifer L. Holm

Babymouse: Babymouse for President

by Jennifer L. Holm

Get ready for the campaign trail with everyone's favorite spunky mouse! In Babymouse for President, the 16th installment of this beloved graphic novel series, Babymouse decides it is time to take charge of the student council. With promises of cupcakes in every locker, she is ready to lead, but the competition is tougher than she imagined. From facing off against the meangirl coalition led by Felicia Furrypaws to even competing against her own locker, Babymouse must figure out if she has the voice and the heart to be a true leader.

This book is perfect for children who love funny, fast-paced stories with relatable school-day drama. Ideal for readers interested in graphic novels, it combines expressive illustrations with witty dialogue that keeps kids engaged from start to finish. It is a great choice for reluctant readers or those transitioning from picture books to longer narratives, offering a hilarious look at the ups and downs of school elections and the importance of staying true to oneself.

Highlights:

  • Engaging graphic novel format that builds reading confidence.
  • Relatable themes of school politics, leadership, and standing up to bullies.
  • Full of humor, imagination, and the iconic pink-hued artwork fans love.
Ages 8-9Early Chapter Book
Graphic Novels and ComicsHumor+1 more
Babymouse: Our hero by Jennifer L. Holm

Babymouse: Our hero

by Jennifer L. Holm

Meet Babymouse, a spunky little mouse with a big imagination and an even bigger heart. In Babymouse: Our Hero, readers are introduced to the pink-loving protagonist who dreams of being a glamorous hero but often finds herself facing the everyday struggles of school life. From the dreaded game of dodgeball to the social pressures of being invited to the coolest party of the year, Babymouse navigates her world with humor and a flair for the dramatic. This graphic novel is a perfect introduction to the series, blending relatable childhood experiences with wild, imaginative daydreams.

Ideal for readers interested in funny, fast-paced stories, this book is a great choice for children transitioning from picture books to independent reading. The expressive black-and-white illustrations with signature pink accents make it visually engaging and easy to follow. Parents looking for books that encourage resilience and self-confidence will find Babymouse to be an endearing role model who never gives up, even when things don't go her way. It is perfect for children who love Narwhal and Jelly or The Bad Guys.

Highlights:

  • Engaging graphic novel format that builds reading confidence.
  • Relatable themes of school social dynamics and overcoming fears.
  • Hilarious imaginative sequences that spark creativity.
  • Iconic pink-and-black art style that appeals to young visual learners.
Ages 6-7Early Chapter Book
Graphic Novels and ComicsHumor+2 more
Big Nate Goes for Broke by Lincoln Peirce

Big Nate Goes for Broke

by Lincoln Peirce

Big Nate is back and funnier than ever in Big Nate Goes for Broke, the fourth installment of the record-breaking series. This time, Nate Wright and his friends at P.S. 38 are facing their biggest challenge yet: the Ultimate Snowdown! They are determined to finally beat their rivals from Jefferson Middle School, a school that seems to win at everything. As the competition heats up, Nate must lead his team through a wintry battle of wits and creativity to prove that they have what it takes to be champions.

This book is perfect for children who love the Diary of a Wimpy Kid series or the works of Raina Telgemeier. With its unique blend of traditional text and hilarious comic-strip illustrations, it is an ideal choice for reluctant readers who might find standard novels intimidating. Parents will appreciate how the story explores themes of school rivalry, teamwork, and staying positive even when the odds are stacked against you. It is a great choice for kids who enjoy humor, school-based adventures, and relatable characters who don't always get things right the first time.

Highlights:

  • Engaging hybrid format featuring hilarious comic-strip illustrations.
  • Relatable middle-school themes including friendship, rivalry, and perseverance.
  • Fast-paced humor that keeps young readers entertained from start to finish.
  • Perfect for fans of Jeff Kinney and funny, illustrated storytelling.
Ages 8-9Middle Grade
Middle Grade FictionHumor+3 more
Big Nate Goes for Broke by Lincoln Pierce

Big Nate Goes for Broke

by Lincoln Pierce

Big Nate is back and funnier than ever in Big Nate Goes for Broke, the fourth installment of Lincoln Peirce's hit series. This time, Nate Wright and his friends at P.S. 38 are facing their biggest challenge yet: the Ultimate Snowdown. They are up against the bullies from Jefferson Middle School, a rival school that seems to beat them at everything from sports to academics. As the competition heats up, Nate must find a way to lead his team to victory and finally prove that they aren't just losers.

This book is a perfect choice for children who love fast-paced, hilarious stories that mirror the ups and downs of middle school life. The unique hybrid format, blending traditional text with expressive comic-strip illustrations, makes it an ideal pick for reluctant readers who might find dense novels intimidating. Fans of Diary of a Wimpy Kid and Dork Diaries will feel right at home with Nate's sarcastic wit and relatable mishaps.

Highlights:

  • Engaging mix of text and comic-strip art that keeps readers turning pages.
  • Relatable themes of school rivalries, friendship, and overcoming underdog status.
  • Laugh-out-loud humor that appeals to both children and parents.
Ages 8-9Middle Grade
Middle Grade FictionGraphic Novels and Comics+2 more
Big Nate: Blasts Off by Lincoln Peirce

Big Nate: Blasts Off

by Lincoln Peirce

Introduce your child to Nate Wright, the energetic and often misunderstood protagonist of the beloved Big Nate series. In Big Nate: Blasts Off, Nate faces a whirlwind of middle school drama, from his secret crush on Ruby to a public spat with his rival, Randy Betancourt, that makes headlines in the school paper. This eighth installment in the New York Times bestselling series is perfect for children who love the Diary of a Wimpy Kid series and enjoy fast-paced, funny stories about navigating the ups and downs of school life.

The story centers on Nate's resilience as he tries to bounce back from a scrap that lands him in hot water. Between dodging detention and preparing for the legendary annual Mud Bowl, Nate must use his wit and doodling skills to stay on top. It is an ideal choice for readers interested in relatable school adventures, friendship dynamics, and high-energy sports stories. Parents will appreciate how the book encourages a love of reading through its engaging hybrid format of text and comic illustrations, making it a great choice for reluctant readers.

Highlights:

  • Hilarious middle school antics and relatable social situations that keep kids laughing.
  • Engaging hybrid format with plenty of fun illustrations and doodles that support reading comprehension.
  • Strong themes of perseverance and sportsmanship during the climactic annual Mud Bowl.
Ages 8-9Middle Grade
Middle Grade FictionGraphic Novels and Comics+2 more
Blubber by Judy Blume

Blubber

by Judy Blume

Judy Blume’s Blubber is a timeless and unflinchingly honest look at the complexities of middle school social dynamics. Unlike many stories about bullying, this classic novel is told from the perspective of Jill, a fifth-grader who isn't the primary instigator but goes along with the crowd. When a classmate named Linda gives a report on whales, the class seizes on the nickname "Blubber," and a cycle of teasing begins that quickly spirals out of control. It is a raw, realistic portrayal of how easily "fun" can turn into cruelty and the difficult lessons learned when the tables are turned.

This book is perfect for children who love realistic school stories and are beginning to navigate the tricky waters of peer pressure and social hierarchies. Parents looking for a conversation starter about empathy and the consequences of one's actions will find this an invaluable resource. It remains a staple for readers interested in Judy Blume’s celebrated candid style, offering a mirror to the often-harsh realities of the playground and the classroom.

Highlights:

  • A unique perspective on bullying told from the viewpoint of a bystander-turned-participant.
  • Authentic dialogue and relatable fifth-grade school setting.
  • Explores themes of peer pressure, social standing, and the importance of standing up for what is right.
  • Ideal for readers who enjoy contemporary classics that tackle tough social issues.
Ages 10-11Middle Grade
Middle Grade FictionContemporary and Realistic Fiction+1 more
Brave by Svetlana Chmakova

Brave

by Svetlana Chmakova

In Brave, the second installment of Svetlana Chmakova's beloved Berrybrook Middle School series, we meet Oliver. Oliver is a quiet kid who often prefers the world of his imagination and gaming to the harsh realities of the school hallways. However, middle school isn't always kind to those who stay quiet. When Oliver finds himself the target of local bullies, he must learn what it truly means to be brave—and it might not look like the heroic battles in his favorite video games.

This graphic novel is perfect for children who love Smile or Diary of a Wimpy Kid. It offers a realistic and relatable look at the social hierarchies of middle school, making it an ideal choice for readers interested in stories about overcoming social anxiety and standing up for oneself. Chmakova’s expressive artwork and authentic dialogue capture the emotional highs and lows of pre-teen life, ensuring that readers feel seen and understood. It is a great choice for parents looking to discuss school social dynamics with their children.

Highlights:

  • Relatable exploration of middle school social dynamics and bullying.
  • Beautifully illustrated graphic novel format that appeals to visual learners and reluctant readers.
  • Strong message about finding inner strength and the value of true friendship.
  • A character-driven story that encourages empathy and self-confidence.
Ages 10-11Middle Grade
Graphic Novels and ComicsMiddle Grade Fiction+1 more
Captain Underpants and the Terrifying Return of Tippy Tinkletrousers by Dav Pilkey

Captain Underpants and the Terrifying Return of Tippy Tinkletrousers

by Dav Pilkey

Get ready for the ninth epic adventure in the world-famous Captain Underpants series! George and Harold are back, but so is their old nemesis, Professor Poopypants. Now going by the name Tippy Tinkletrousers, he is on a mission of revenge, armed with the terrifying Freezy-Beam 4000. This action-packed story is perfect for children who love slapstick humor, silly names, and fast-paced adventures. It is an ideal choice for readers interested in graphic novels and stories that celebrate the power of friendship and imagination.

Dav Pilkey’s signature blend of comic book panels, Flip-O-Rama animation, and hilarious storytelling makes this a great choice for reluctant readers. Whether your child is a long-time fan of the series or just starting their journey with George and Harold, this installment delivers the belly laughs and creative chaos that have made the series a global phenomenon. It’s a must-read for anyone who enjoys seeing the underdog triumph over a ridiculous villain.

Highlights:

  • Features the return of the iconic villain Professor Poopypants.
  • Includes interactive Flip-O-Rama pages for extra fun.
  • Perfect for fans of Dog Man and Diary of a Wimpy Kid.
  • Encourages creativity and humor in young readers.
  • A high-energy plot that keeps readers engaged from start to finish.
Ages 8-9Middle Grade
Chapter BooksGraphic Novels and Comics+3 more
Diary of a Wimpy Kid by Jeff Kinney

Diary of a Wimpy Kid

by Jeff Kinney

Diary of a Wimpy Kid is the hilarious and relatable first book in Jeff Kinney's wildly popular series. It follows Greg Heffley as he navigates the treacherous waters of middle school, where he’s stuck between "undersized weaklings" and kids who are already shaving. Through a unique blend of handwritten notes and comic-style drawings, Greg records his daily struggles with popularity, family, and his best friend Rowley. This book is perfect for children who love funny stories that mirror the real-life awkwardness of growing up.

Ideal for readers interested in humorous realistic fiction, this story captures the essence of the middle school experience and the challenges of fitting in. Whether Greg is trying to avoid the dreaded "Cheese Touch" or plotting ways to become the most popular kid in school, his voice is authentically funny and engaging. It is a great choice for reluctant readers who enjoy visual storytelling and fast-paced, episodic chapters that keep them turning the pages.

Highlights:

  • Relatable middle school humor and awkward social situations.
  • Engaging hybrid format of text and comic illustrations.
  • Explores the complexities of childhood friendships and peer pressure.
  • Perfect for fans of funny, character-driven series.
Ages 10-11Middle Grade
Middle Grade FictionHumor+2 more
Dork Diaries 10: Tales from a Not-So-Perfect Pet Sitter by Rachel Renée Russell

Dork Diaries 10: Tales from a Not-So-Perfect Pet Sitter

by Rachel Renée Russell

Nikki Maxwell is back in the tenth installment of the sensationally popular Dork Diaries series. In Tales from a Not-So-Perfect Pet Sitter, Nikki and her best friends Chloe and Zoey, along with her crush Brandon, find themselves in a ruff situation. When they discover seven adorable puppies that need a home, Nikki decides to hide them. However, keeping seven energetic dogs a secret from her parents, her annoying little sister Brianna, and the entire middle school is much harder than she anticipated—especially with her arch-nemesis MacKenzie Hollister looking for any excuse to get her in trouble.

This book is perfect for children who love diary-style storytelling filled with hilarious illustrations and relatable middle school drama. It is an ideal choice for readers interested in stories about animal rescue, secret missions, and the importance of standing by your friends. Fans of Diary of a Wimpy Kid or Smile will find Nikki's "adorkable" adventures both heartwarming and laugh-out-loud funny. It’s a great choice for encouraging reluctant readers through its engaging graphic-novel-hybrid format.

Highlights:

  • A hilarious and high-stakes secret mission involving seven cute puppies.
  • Explores themes of responsibility, teamwork, and navigating middle school rivalries.
  • Features the signature doodle-style illustrations that fans of the series adore.
  • Perfect for young readers who enjoy humor mixed with realistic life lessons.
Ages 10-11Middle Grade
Middle Grade FictionHumor+2 more
Dork Diaries 11: Tales from a Not-So-Friendly Frenemy by Rachel Renée Russell

Dork Diaries 11: Tales from a Not-So-Friendly Frenemy

by Rachel Renée Russell

Nikki Maxwell is back, and this time she’s facing her biggest challenge yet in Tales from a Not-So-Friendly Frenemy. When a student exchange week sends Nikki to North Hampton Hills—the fancy new school of her archnemesis, MacKenzie Hollister—disaster seems inevitable. This eleventh installment in the bestselling series is perfect for children who love relatable school drama, hilarious diary entries, and the constant struggle of trying to fit in while staying true to yourself.

As Nikki navigates the halls of NHH, she discovers that MacKenzie might not even be the biggest 'mean girl' there. With her signature wit and doodle-filled pages, Nikki must find a way to survive the week without losing her mind or her friends. This book is an ideal choice for readers interested in stories about friendship, overcoming bullying, and the importance of resilience. Fans of Diary of a Wimpy Kid and Smile will find Nikki’s 'dorky' adventures absolutely irresistible.

Highlights:

  • Relatable middle school drama and humor that keeps readers engaged.
  • Engaging diary-style format with fun illustrations on every page.
  • Positive messages about staying true to yourself despite social pressure.
  • Great choice for reluctant readers who enjoy visual storytelling.
Ages 10-11Middle Grade
Middle Grade FictionHumor+2 more
Dork Diaries 14: Tales from a Not-So-Best Friend Forever by Rachel Renée Russell

Dork Diaries 14: Tales from a Not-So-Best Friend Forever

by Rachel Renée Russell

Nikki Maxwell is back and ready for the summer of a lifetime! In the fourteenth installment of the hit series, Nikki and her band are hitting the road as the opening act for the world-famous Bad Boyz. It is a dream come true for any middle schooler, but the excitement quickly turns into a hilarious disaster when Nikki discovers her arch-nemesis, MacKenzie Hollister, has joined the tour as a social media intern. To make matters worse, Nikki finds out she has to share a room with her frenemy! Will Nikki survive the drama of life on tour, or will her summer go from awesome to awful?

This book is perfect for children who love funny, relatable stories about navigating friendships and school rivalries. Written in a diary format with expressive illustrations, it is an ideal choice for readers interested in graphic novels and humorous fiction. Fans of Diary of a Wimpy Kid or Smile will find Nikki's dorky adventures both entertaining and heartwarming. It is a great choice for reluctant readers who enjoy fast-paced plots and visual storytelling.

Highlights:

  • Relatable middle school drama and friendship themes.
  • Engaging diary-style format with fun illustrations.
  • Humorous take on dealing with frenemies and social challenges.
  • Perfect for fans of the Dork Diaries series and similar graphic novels.
Ages 10-11Middle Grade
Middle Grade FictionHumor+2 more
Dork Diaries 4: Tales from a Not-So-Graceful Ice Princess by Rachel Renée Russell

Dork Diaries 4: Tales from a Not-So-Graceful Ice Princess

by Rachel Renée Russell

Nikki Maxwell is back in Dork Diaries 4: Tales from a Not-So-Graceful Ice Princess, and this time she is hitting the ice for a good cause! When Nikki discovers that her crush Brandon volunteers at a local animal shelter that is in danger of closing, she decides to enter an ice-skating competition to raise money. The only problem? Nikki can barely stand on skates, let alone perform a routine. This hilarious installment is perfect for children who love stories about overcoming embarrassment and helping others.

Ideal for readers interested in relatable middle school drama, this book combines funny diary entries with expressive illustrations. Fans of the series will enjoy watching Nikki navigate her rivalry with the mean girl MacKenzie while trying to stay upright on the rink. It is a great choice for kids who enjoy the Diary of a Wimpy Kid series but want a story focused on female friendships and heartfelt themes. With its engaging format, it is especially appealing to reluctant readers who enjoy visual storytelling.

Highlights:

  • A heartwarming story about supporting local animal shelters and charity.
  • Relatable middle school humor and awkward social situations.
  • Engaging diary-style format with fun illustrations on every page.
  • Themes of perseverance and staying true to yourself despite obstacles.
Ages 10-11Middle Grade
Middle Grade FictionHumor+2 more
Dork Diaries 5: Tales from a Not-So-Smart Miss Know-It-All by Rachel Renée Russell

Dork Diaries 5: Tales from a Not-So-Smart Miss Know-It-All

by Rachel Renée Russell

Nikki Maxwell is back and facing a brand-new challenge at Westchester Middle School! In this fifth installment of the beloved series, Nikki decides to join the school newspaper to keep an eye on her arch-nemesis, MacKenzie Hollister, who has started a mean-spirited gossip column. To her surprise, Nikki lands the role of the school's advice columnist, Miss Know-It-All. While it starts as a fun way to help her classmates, Nikki soon finds herself overwhelmed by a mountain of letters and her own personal drama. This book is perfect for children who love funny, relatable stories about navigating the ups and downs of middle school life.

Written in a charming diary format with expressive illustrations, Tales from a Not-So-Smart Miss Know-It-All is ideal for readers interested in stories about friendship, standing up to bullies, and finding one's voice. Fans of the Diary of a Wimpy Kid series will find Nikki’s mishaps and triumphs both hilarious and heartwarming. It’s a great choice for young readers who enjoy a mix of text and art, making it an engaging and accessible read for those who might find traditional novels intimidating.

Highlights:

  • Relatable middle school drama and humor
  • Engaging hybrid format with fun illustrations
  • Positive messages about empathy and helping others
  • A fast-paced plot that keeps young readers turning pages
Ages 10-11Middle Grade
Middle Grade FictionHumor+2 more
Dork Diaries 6: Tales from a Not-So-Happy Heartbreaker by Rachel Renée Russell

Dork Diaries 6: Tales from a Not-So-Happy Heartbreaker

by Rachel Renée Russell

In the sixth installment of the sensationally popular Dork Diaries series, Nikki Maxwell finds herself navigating the high-stakes world of middle school romance. With the biggest dance of the year approaching, Nikki is desperate for her crush, Brandon, to ask her to be his date. However, things are never simple in Nikki's world. Between the constant interference of her rival MacKenzie and her own hilarious insecurities, Nikki's diary is filled with the ups and downs of a "not-so-happy heartbreaker."

This book is perfect for children who love illustrated journals and relatable stories about the trials of growing up. It is an ideal choice for readers interested in friendship dynamics, school drama, and the awkwardness of first crushes. Rachel Renée Russell's signature blend of humor and heart makes this a great choice for fans of Diary of a Wimpy Kid who are looking for a female-led perspective on the middle school experience.

Highlights:

  • Relatable middle school drama involving friendships and first crushes.
  • Engaging diary-style format with fun illustrations on every page.
  • Empowering messages about staying true to oneself despite social pressure.
  • A humorous and lighthearted look at navigating school rivalries.
Ages 10-11Middle Grade
Middle Grade FictionHumor+3 more
Dork Diaries 8: Tales from a Not-So-Happily Ever After by Rachel Renée Russell

Dork Diaries 8: Tales from a Not-So-Happily Ever After

by Rachel Renée Russell

In the eighth installment of the sensationally popular Dork Diaries series, Nikki Maxwell finds herself in a truly "dork-tastic" predicament. After a mishap in gym class on April Fool’s Day, Nikki is knocked unconscious and wakes up in a wild, fractured fairy tale world. Here, her best friends Chloe and Zoey, her crush Brandon, and even her arch-nemesis MacKenzie Hollister take on the roles of classic storybook characters. From Cinderella to Little Red Riding Hood, these familiar tales get a hilarious and modern makeover that only Nikki could provide.

This book is a fantastic choice for middle grade readers who enjoy the unique blend of diary-style narration and expressive illustrations. The relatable school drama, combined with the imaginative twist of the fairy tale setting, makes it a page-turner for both dedicated fans and newcomers. It is an ideal pick for children who love stories about navigating friendships, dealing with "mean girls," and finding humor in everyday (and not-so-everyday) disasters. Parents looking for engaging books for reluctant readers will find this series particularly effective.

Highlights:

  • A creative and funny reimagining of classic fairy tales through Nikki's perspective.
  • Engaging graphic novel-style illustrations that appeal to reluctant readers.
  • Explores themes of friendship, rivalry, and self-confidence in a relatable way.
  • Perfect for fans of Diary of a Wimpy Kid and The Princess Diaries.
Ages 10-11Middle Grade
Middle Grade FictionHumor+3 more
Dork Diaries 9: Tales from a Not-So-Dorky Drama Queen by Rachel Renée Russell

Dork Diaries 9: Tales from a Not-So-Dorky Drama Queen

by Rachel Renée Russell

In the ninth installment of the sensationally popular series, Nikki Maxwell faces her ultimate nightmare: her private diary has fallen into the hands of her arch-nemesis, Mackenzie Hollister! For the first time ever, readers get a glimpse into the mind of the school's "queen bee" as Mackenzie takes over the pages to share her own side of the story. It is a dramatic, hilarious, and revealing look at the social hierarchy of middle school that fans of the series have been waiting for.

This book is perfect for children who love stories about school life, friendship, and navigating the ups and downs of being a "dork." The hybrid format of text and comic-style illustrations makes it an ideal choice for readers interested in engaging, fast-paced storytelling. Whether your child is a long-time fan or new to Nikki's world, this volume offers a fresh perspective on the classic rivalry between the CCPs (Cute, Cool, and Popular) and the dorks.

Highlights:

  • Features a unique perspective shift as the antagonist writes in the diary.
  • Relatable middle school themes including bullying, social status, and self-acceptance.
  • Highly engaging illustrations that support reading comprehension and humor.
  • Great choice for fans of Diary of a Wimpy Kid and The Baby-Sitters Club.
Ages 10-11Middle Grade
Middle Grade FictionContemporary and Realistic Fiction+2 more
Dork Diaries: Tales from a Not-So-Fabulous Life by Rachel Renée Russell

Dork Diaries: Tales from a Not-So-Fabulous Life

by Rachel Renée Russell

Nikki Maxwell is the ultimate underdog in Dork Diaries: Tales from a Not-So-Fabulous Life. Starting eighth grade at a prestigious new private school where she doesn't feel like she fits in, Nikki chronicles her daily struggles, triumphs, and "total dork" moments in her hilarious, doodle-filled diary. From her epic battle with her mom for a smartphone to navigating the treacherous waters of middle school social hierarchies, Nikki's voice is authentic, funny, and deeply relatable for any child facing the pressures of growing up.

This book is a fantastic choice for readers who love stories about friendship, school drama, and finding one's place in the world. The unique format, blending text with expressive comic-style illustrations, makes it an ideal pick for reluctant readers or those who enjoy the Diary of a Wimpy Kid series. Parents will appreciate the positive messages about staying true to oneself despite the influence of "mean girls" and the importance of loyal friends like Chloe and Zoey.

Highlights:

  • Highly engaging diary format with fun illustrations on every page.
  • Relatable stories about school crushes, family antics, and social challenges.
  • Encourages self-acceptance and celebrates individuality.
  • Perfect for fans of illustrated middle grade fiction and humor.
Ages 10-11Middle Grade
Middle Grade FictionHumor+3 more
Dork Diaries: Tales from a Not-So-Popular Party Girl by Rachel Renée Russell

Dork Diaries: Tales from a Not-So-Popular Party Girl

by Rachel Renée Russell

Nikki Maxwell is back in the second installment of the Dork Diaries series, and this time she is facing a major social dilemma. Between navigating her new school and hanging out with her best friends Chloe and Zoey, Nikki’s life is finally looking up—especially since her crush, Brandon, asked her to be his lab partner! However, things take a cringeworthy turn when Nikki overhears the school’s mean girl, MacKenzie, bragging about going to the Halloween dance with Brandon. Heartbroken, Nikki agrees to spend the night at a children’s party with her little sister, only to realize later that MacKenzie might have been lying. Now, Nikki has to juggle two different events at once without getting caught!

This book is perfect for children who love the Diary of a Wimpy Kid series but are looking for a relatable female perspective. It is an ideal choice for readers interested in stories about navigating middle school drama, managing friendships, and dealing with first crushes. The diary-style format, filled with hilarious sketches and relatable "dork" moments, makes it a great choice for reluctant readers who enjoy visual storytelling and fast-paced humor.

Highlights:

  • Relatable middle school drama involving friendships and "mean girls."
  • Engaging diary-style format with fun illustrations on every page.
  • Heartwarming family moments and a sweet, innocent first crush.
  • Encourages self-acceptance and staying true to oneself despite social pressure.
Ages 10-11Middle Grade
Middle Grade FictionHumor+3 more