Books about independence

In Anne of the Island, the beloved Anne Shirley leaves the familiar shores of Prince Edward Island to pursue her dreams at Redmond College. This enchanting third installment in L.M. Montgomery's classic series follows Anne as she navigates the bustling city of Kingsport, balances her studies with new friendships, and experiences the bittersweet transition into adulthood. From the cozy charm of Patty’s Place to the academic halls of college, readers will delight in Anne's continued growth as she faces the joys of independence and the complexities of the heart.

This book is perfect for children and teens who love stories about strong-willed heroines, academic adventures, and the enduring power of friendship. It is an ideal choice for readers interested in historical fiction and those who have followed Anne's journey from her early days at Green Gables. Parents will appreciate the timeless values and the beautiful prose that makes this a great choice for developing a love for classic literature and exploring themes of maturity and perseverance.

Highlights:

• Anne's exciting transition from rural Avonlea to college life in the city.
• The introduction of the delightful and frivolous new friend, Philippa Gordon.
• A deeper exploration of Anne and Gilbert Blythe's evolving relationship.
• Heartfelt moments of self-discovery, academic success, and navigating loss.

Anne of Windy Poplars follows the beloved Anne Shirley as she embarks on a new chapter of her life as the principal of Summerside High School. While her fiancé, Gilbert Blythe, is away at medical school, Anne navigates the challenges of a new town and the formidable Pringle clan, who seem determined to make her life difficult. Living at the charming Windy Poplars with two elderly widows and their spirited housekeeper, Anne uses her trademark optimism and wit to win over the hearts of the townspeople.

This classic novel is perfect for children and teens who love stories about strong-willed heroines and the power of kindness. Ideal for readers interested in historical settings and epistolary novels, it offers a heartwarming look at Anne's transition into adulthood. Parents will appreciate the wholesome themes and the sophisticated vocabulary that makes it a great choice for developing readers who enjoy literary classics.

Highlights:

• A delightful epistolary format featuring Anne's letters to Gilbert Blythe.
• Explores themes of community, perseverance, and professional growth.
• Features a cast of eccentric and memorable supporting characters in a small-town setting.
• A must-read for fans of the Anne of Green Gables series looking for more of Anne's adventures.

In the poignant conclusion to the beloved Three Rancheros trilogy, Newbery Medalist Kate DiCamillo introduces us to a fourteen-year-old Beverly Tapinski who is ready to leave her past behind. No longer just a runaway, Beverly is determined to make a life on her own terms. After the loss of her beloved dog and the emotional distance of her mother, she finds herself in a small town, taking a job at a local fish fry and living with an eccentric older woman. While Beverly tries her hardest to remain detached and independent, she soon discovers that the human heart has a way of forming connections even when we try to keep them at bay.

This beautifully written novel is perfect for children who love character-driven stories and readers interested in themes of resilience and self-reliance. DiCamillo’s signature prose captures the tough-talking, inescapably tenderhearted nature of a girl finding her place in the world. It is an ideal choice for fans of realistic fiction who appreciate stories that are both heartbreaking and hopeful. Through Beverly's journey, readers learn that while leaving home is hard, finding where you truly belong is a journey worth taking.

Highlights:

• A powerful coming-of-age story about independence and self-discovery.
• The final installment in the acclaimed Three Rancheros sequence.
• Masterful character development that resonates with middle-grade and young teen readers.
• Explores complex family dynamics and the importance of chosen community.

Brian's Winter is a gripping "what-if" sequel to Gary Paulsen's classic survival story, Hatchet. In this riveting adventure, thirteen-year-old Brian Robeson is not rescued at the end of summer. Instead, he must face the brutal, unforgiving Canadian winter with only his wits and his hatchet. This story is perfect for children who love high-stakes survival tales and readers interested in the raw power of nature. Paulsen's breathtaking descriptions of the wilderness make this an immersive experience for any young reader who has ever wondered if they could survive on their own.

This book is an ideal choice for fans of outdoor exploration and realistic fiction. It explores deep themes of resilience and self-reliance as Brian learns to hunt, build shelter, and stay warm against impossible odds. It is a great choice for reluctant readers because of its fast-paced plot and visceral action. Parents looking for books that inspire grit and a connection to the natural world will find this to be a standout addition to their child's library.

Highlights:

• An intense, realistic look at wilderness survival and bushcraft skills.
• A compelling "alternate ending" scenario that expands on a beloved classic.
• Focuses on character growth, problem-solving, and mental toughness.
• Perfect for fans of My Side of the Mountain and Island of the Blue Dolphins.

Clariel is a gripping epic fantasy adventure set in the beloved world of the Old Kingdom, six hundred years before the events of Sabriel. This dark and dazzling tale follows Clariel, a young woman who finds herself trapped in the stifling city of Belisaere. While her family is embroiled in political intrigue and royal plots, Clariel longs for the simple life of the forest. However, when a dangerous Free Magic creature begins terrorizing the city, Clariel is forced to confront a hidden sorcery within herself that is as dangerous as it is powerful.

Perfect for readers who love complex world-building and morally grey protagonists, this novel explores the heavy burden of destiny and the cost of power. It is an ideal choice for fans of high fantasy who enjoy stories about strong-willed heroines fighting against societal expectations. Garth Nix delivers a masterclass in atmosphere, making this a great choice for teenagers and adults alike who are looking for a sophisticated and intense reading experience.

Highlights:

• A deep dive into the origins of the Old Kingdom's magic and lore.
• A compelling, non-traditional protagonist struggling with her own nature.
• Richly detailed setting filled with sorcery, intrigue, and ancient creatures.
• Explores themes of autonomy, choice, and the dangers of unchecked ambition.

Princess Cimorene is not your typical fairy tale princess. She has no interest in embroidery, etiquette, or marrying a dull prince. Instead, she prefers fencing, magic, and Latin. When her parents try to force her into a traditional marriage, Cimorene takes matters into her own hands and runs away to the Mountains of Morning to volunteer as a dragon's princess. This delightful story is perfect for children who love strong-willed heroines and stories that flip classic tropes on their heads.

Living with the dragon Kazul is much more exciting than life at the palace. Cimorene organizes the dragon's library, cooks exotic meals, and helps defend the dragon's cave from pesky knights and meddling wizards. As she uncovers a plot involving the Society of Wizards, Cimorene must use her wit and unconventional skills to save her new friends. This book is an ideal choice for readers interested in fractured fairy tales, witty dialogue, and magical adventures that empower young readers to be themselves.

Highlights:

• A refreshing and hilarious subversion of traditional fairy tale stereotypes.
• Features a highly capable, intelligent, and independent female protagonist.
• Engaging world-building filled with dragons, wizards, and magical creatures.
• Perfect for fans of humor-driven fantasy and clever problem-solving.

In Dog Days, the fourth installment of the wildly popular Diary of a Wimpy Kid series, Greg Heffley is ready for the ultimate summer vacation: staying indoors, closing the curtains, and playing video games. However, his mother has a very different vision of summer fun, involving outdoor activities and family togetherness. As Greg navigates the challenges of a public pool, a disastrous camping trip, and the arrival of a new dog, readers are treated to the signature humor and relatable awkwardness that defines the series.

This book is perfect for children who love funny, fast-paced stories told through a mix of text and comic-style illustrations. It is an ideal choice for reluctant readers who might be intimidated by dense blocks of text but are drawn in by Greg's hilarious observations and mishaps. Parents looking for a relatable coming-of-age story that captures the essence of middle school life will find this a great addition to their child's bookshelf.

Highlights:

• Hilarious and relatable middle-school struggles that keep kids laughing.
• Unique diary-style format with engaging illustrations perfect for visual learners.
• Explores themes of family dynamics and the push for independence during summer break.
• Great choice for fans of Big Nate or Dork Diaries.

Ella Enchanted is a beloved Newbery Honor-winning retelling of Cinderella that breathes new life into the classic fairy tale. The story follows Ella of Frell, who is cursed at birth with the "gift" of obedience by a well-meaning but foolish fairy. Forced to follow every command—no matter how ridiculous or dangerous—Ella must navigate a world of ogres, giants, and wicked stepsisters while keeping her curse a secret. This enchanting novel is perfect for children who love stories about strong-willed heroines who refuse to let their circumstances define them.

Ideal for readers interested in magical quests and clever world-building, Gail Carson Levine’s masterpiece explores deep themes of agency and self-determination. As Ella falls in love with Prince Charmont and fights to protect her kingdom, she proves that true power comes from within. It is a great choice for fans of magical adventures, offering a blend of humor, romance, and high-stakes action that keeps young readers turning pages until the very end.

Highlights:

• A clever and empowering reimagining of the Cinderella story.
• A relatable protagonist who uses her wit and spirit to overcome a magical curse.
• Rich world-building featuring diverse mythical creatures and charming kingdoms.
• Explores important lessons about autonomy, consent, and finding one's own voice.

Frightful's Mountain is a captivating survival story that continues the beloved saga of Sam Gribley and his peregrine falcon. In this installment, the focus shifts to Frightful as she is forced to navigate the wild on her own. Having been raised by a human, she must learn the essential skills of hunting, migrating, and finding a mate—tasks that do not come naturally to her. This novel is a perfect choice for children who love animals and the great outdoors, offering a unique perspective on the natural world through the eyes of a bird of prey.

Ideal for readers interested in environmental conservation and wildlife, Jean Craighead George’s writing is both educational and deeply moving. It explores the complex relationship between humans and nature, highlighting the challenges endangered species face. Fans of the My Side of the Mountain series will find this a satisfying and emotional journey that explores what it truly means to be free. It is a great choice for middle-grade readers looking for an adventure that is grounded in realistic science and heartfelt storytelling.

Highlights:

• A unique perspective told primarily from the viewpoint of a peregrine falcon.
• Richly detailed descriptions of nature, wildlife behavior, and the environment.
• Explores themes of independence, survival, and the enduring bond between humans and animals.

Join Claudia Kincaid and her younger brother Jamie on the ultimate urban adventure in E.L. Konigsburg’s Newbery Medal-winning classic, From the Mixed-Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler. Tired of the perceived injustices of being the eldest child and the monotony of her suburban life, Claudia decides to run away in style. Her destination? The Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City. With Jamie’s secret stash of money and Claudia’s meticulous planning, the duo navigates the halls of the Met, sleeping in antique beds and bathing in the museum fountain.

This timeless story is perfect for children who love mysteries and secret adventures. As the siblings settle into their new life, they encounter a beautiful statue that may be a lost work of Michelangelo. Their quest to uncover the truth leads them to the eccentric Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler, whose "mixed-up files" hold the key to the mystery and to Claudia’s own sense of self. It is an ideal choice for readers interested in art, history, and stories about clever children outsmarting the world around them.

Highlights:

• A captivating mystery set within the world-famous Metropolitan Museum of Art.
• Explores relatable themes of sibling dynamics, independence, and the desire to be unique.
• Winner of the Newbery Medal and a staple of classic middle-grade literature.
• Perfect for fans of puzzle-solving stories and historical mysteries.

In "Gregs Tagebuch - So ein Pech!" steht Greg Heffley vor seiner bisher größten Herausforderung: Ein ganzes Wochenende ohne jegliche Elektronik! Seine Mutter hat die gesamte Stadt dazu animiert, den Stecker zu ziehen. Für Greg bedeutet das: kein Fernsehen, keine Videospiele und erst recht kein Handy. Stattdessen stehen gemeinsames Putzen im Park und altmodische Freizeitaktivitäten auf dem Programm. Doch als wäre das nicht schon schlimm genug, wartet auch noch die Klassenfahrt zur "Schweiß-und-Fleiß-Farm" auf ihn, wo das Leben so richtig ungemütlich wird.

Jeff Kinney schafft es auch im zehnten Band seiner Bestseller-Reihe, den ganz normalen Wahnsinn eines Teenagers mit einer riesigen Portion Humor einzufangen. Die Mischung aus Text und lustigen Comic-Zeichnungen macht das Buch zur perfekten Wahl für Kinder, die gerne lachen und sich in Gregs peinlichen Alltagssituationen wiedererkennen. Es ist die ideale Lektüre für alle, die sich für Themen wie digitale Entgiftung, Schule und das Überleben in der Wildnis interessieren.

Highlights:

• Urkomische Einblicke in Gregs verzweifelten Versuch, ohne Technik zu überleben.
• Perfekt für Lesemuffel durch den motivierenden Comic-Roman-Stil.
• Thematisiert auf humorvolle Weise den Generationenkonflikt um Smartphones und Internet.
• Spannende und peinliche Abenteuer auf der berüchtigten Schweiß-und-Fleiß-Farm.

Hamster Princess: Harriet the Invincible is a hilarious and refreshing twist on the classic Sleeping Beauty tale. Harriet Hamsterbone is not your typical princess; she finds traditional royal duties like sighing and needlepoint incredibly dull. When she discovers she is cursed to fall into a deep sleep at age twelve, Harriet doesn't panic. Instead, she realizes that if she is destined to fall asleep then, she must be invincible until the curse takes effect! This realization kicks off a series of wild adventures involving cliff-diving, fighting hydras, and even some light ogre-slaying.

This book is perfect for children who love fractured fairy tales and strong, unconventional heroines. Ursula Vernon’s unique blend of traditional narrative and graphic-novel-style illustrations makes it an ideal choice for readers interested in fast-paced, funny stories that challenge gender stereotypes. It is a great choice for fans of The Bad Guys or The Princess in Black who are ready for a slightly longer, more complex adventure filled with wit and heart.

Highlights:

• A brave and hilarious protagonist who redefines what it means to be a princess.
• A clever subversion of classic fairy tale tropes that keeps readers laughing.
• Engaging hybrid format with illustrations that support the storytelling and humor.
• Strong themes of independence and courage that empower young readers.

Princess Harriet Hamsterbone is not your typical damsel in distress. In Hamster Princess: Of Mice and Magic, Harriet finds herself looking for excitement after the local monsters retire. When a fairy tells her about twelve mice princesses cursed to dance all night, Harriet jumps at the chance for a new quest. Armed with her poncho of invisibility and her loyal battle quail, she sets off to solve the mystery. This hilarious retelling of 'The Twelve Dancing Princesses' is perfect for children who love fractured fairy tales and spunky, unconventional heroines.

Ideal for readers interested in funny adventures and graphic novel hybrids, Ursula Vernon’s second installment in the series combines witty dialogue with charming illustrations. It is a great choice for fans of The Bad Guys or The Princess in Black who are ready for a slightly longer, more complex story. Harriet’s bravery and refusal to follow traditional royal rules make her a fantastic role model for young readers who march to the beat of their own drum.

Highlights:

• A hilarious and empowering subversion of classic fairy tale tropes.
• Engaging hybrid format with illustrations that support the fast-paced narrative.
• Features a strong, independent female protagonist who loves cliff-diving and battle quails.
• Perfect for reluctant readers who enjoy humor and action-packed plots.

Princess Harriet Hamsterbone is not your typical fairy tale princess. Instead of waiting to be rescued, she is a sword-wielding, cliff-diving adventurer who finds royal life a bit too dull. In Hamster Princess: Ratpunzel, the third installment of this hilarious series, Harriet teams up with her friend Prince Wilbur to track down a stolen hydra egg. Their journey leads them to a mysterious tower and a long-tailed rodent named Ratpunzel, putting a clever and subverted twist on the classic Rapunzel story.

This book is perfect for children who love fractured fairy tales and stories that challenge traditional gender roles. With its unique comic hybrid format—blending traditional prose with engaging illustrations and speech bubbles—it is an ideal choice for readers interested in fast-paced, funny adventures. Fans of The Princess in Black or Babymouse will find Harriet’s bold personality and the book's witty humor absolutely delightful.

Highlights:

• A hilarious and empowering subversion of the classic Rapunzel fairy tale.
• Engaging hybrid format with illustrations that appeal to visual learners and reluctant readers.
• Strong, independent female protagonist who values action and friendship over royal tradition.

Princess Harriet Hamsterbone is far from your typical royal. Instead of practicing her poise or picking out gowns, she would much rather be cliff-diving, solving complex fractions, or engaging in a spirited sword fight. In Hamster Princess: Whiskerella, Harriet finds herself forced into a dull ball, only to be swept up in a mystery involving a beautiful stranger, a misunderstood stepsister, and a very unfortunate lizard. This fifth installment in Ursula Vernon's acclaimed series offers a hilariously feminist twist on the classic Cinderella story, proving that princesses can be the heroes of their own adventures.

Ideal for readers who love fractured fairy tales and strong, unconventional heroines, this book combines witty dialogue with fast-paced action. It is a perfect choice for children who enjoy the humor of series like The Bad Guys or the adventurous spirit of Wings of Fire. With its blend of traditional folklore and modern sensibilities, Harriet's latest quest is sure to keep young readers laughing while they root for a princess who breaks all the rules.

Highlights:

• A funny and empowering subversion of the Cinderella fairy tale.
• Features a brave, sword-wielding protagonist who defies traditional stereotypes.
• Great choice for fans of humorous adventure and animal-led stories.
• Engaging illustrations that complement the witty and fast-paced narrative.

Charmain Baker is a bookish girl who just wants some peace and quiet to read, but her life takes a magical turn when she agrees to house-sit for her great-uncle, a wizard. She soon discovers that the house is much larger on the inside, with doors that lead to different times and places. This enchanting sequel to Howl’s Moving Castle is perfect for children who love whimsical magic, eccentric characters, and clever puzzles.

As Charmain navigates the confusing corridors of the house, she finds herself responsible for a magical stray dog and a clumsy apprentice wizard. The stakes rise when she is caught up in a royal intrigue involving a terrifying creature called a lubbock and a search for the legendary Elfgift. Fans of the series will be delighted to see the return of the dashing Wizard Howl, the fiery Calcifer, and the formidable Sophie, who all join the fray to help save the kingdom.

Ideal for readers interested in complex magical worlds and witty storytelling, this book is a great choice for fans of classic fantasy authors like Eva Ibbotson or E. Nesbit. Diana Wynne Jones weaves a tale of self-discovery and responsibility that is both humorous and heart-pounding.

Highlights:

• A magical house with shifting rooms and hidden secrets.
• The return of beloved characters from Howl’s Moving Castle.
• A witty and relatable protagonist who grows in independence.
• A blend of high-stakes mystery and lighthearted humor.
• Perfect for fans of Studio Ghibli and classic British fantasy.

In this vibrant graphic novel adaptation by Raina Telgemeier, Mary Anne Spier is tired of being the "quiet one" of the Baby-sitters Club. When a massive argument breaks out among the four best friends, the club's future is at stake, and Mary Anne is left to navigate babysitting challenges and her father's strict rules all on her own. This heartwarming story follows her journey as she finds her voice, proves her maturity, and learns that being shy doesn't mean you aren't strong enough to lead.

This book is perfect for children who love stories about tight-knit friend groups and the relatable drama of middle school life. It is an ideal choice for readers interested in character-driven stories that balance humor with real emotional growth. Whether they are long-time fans of the original series or new to the world of Stoneybrook, readers will be captivated by the expressive illustrations and the timeless message of reconciliation and self-reliance.

Highlights:

• Relatable themes of navigating friendship conflicts and learning how to apologize.
• Engaging graphic novel format that is perfect for both reluctant and avid readers.
• Focuses on character growth and the importance of standing up for oneself.
• A great choice for fans of Smile, Sisters, and Real Friends.

In "Mein Lotta-Leben - Wer den Wal hat, hat die Qual" steht Lottas Welt mal wieder Kopf. Eigentlich sollte ihr Geburtstag der beste Tag des Jahres werden, doch statt des ersehnten Hundes Anton bekommt sie von ihren Eltern eine Sprachreise nach England geschenkt. "English & Adventure" klingt zwar nach Abenteuer, aber ganz ohne ihre beste Freundin Cheyenne auf eine einsame Insel? Das kann ja nur im Chaos enden! Lotta-Fans dürfen sich auf gewohnt lustige Tagebucheinträge und skurrile Alltagssituationen freuen.

Dieses Buch ist die perfekte Wahl für Kinder, die humorvolle Geschichten im Comic-Stil lieben, ähnlich wie "Gregs Tagebuch". Es ist ideal für Leser, die sich für Themen wie Freundschaft, Reisen und das Überwinden von kleinen Ängsten interessieren. Mit den witzigen Illustrationen und der lockeren Erzählweise ist es ein großartiger Begleiter für Lesemuffel und begeisterte Leseratten gleichermaßen.

Highlights:

• Witzige Comic-Illustrationen, die das Lesen auflockern
• Authentische und humorvolle Einblicke in Lottas Gefühlswelt
• Spannendes Setting auf einer englischen Insel
• Thematisiert Mut und Selbstständigkeit auf kindgerechte Weise

Rafe Khatchadorian is back, and this time he is trading the familiar halls of Hills Village Middle School for the sunny shores of California! After a period of unusual quiet, Rafe is feeling restless and ready for a change. When he gets the chance to join an all-expenses-paid art field trip, he jumps at the opportunity. But as fans of the series know, where Rafe goes, trouble usually follows. This hilarious installment follows Rafe as he navigates the high-stakes world of art and the unpredictable nature of a cross-country trip.

Perfect for children who love the Diary of a Wimpy Kid series or Big Nate, this book is an ideal choice for readers interested in funny, relatable stories about surviving middle school. James Patterson’s signature blend of humor and heart makes this a great choice for reluctant readers who enjoy fast-paced plots and engaging illustrations. Whether Rafe is making new friends or getting into his latest fiasco, readers will be rooting for him every step of the way.

Highlights:

• A hilarious cross-country adventure filled with Rafe's classic mishaps.
• Engaging illustrations that bring the story and Rafe's imagination to life.
• Relatable themes of finding one's passion and navigating social challenges.
• Fast-paced storytelling perfect for middle-grade readers and reluctant fans.

My Plain Jane is a witty and whimsical reimagining of Charlotte Brontë's classic novel, Jane Eyre. In this version, Jane isn't just a penniless orphan and governess; she has the unique ability to see ghosts. When her best friend Charlotte Brontë decides to write a story about her, and a handsome ghost-hunter from the Society for the Relocation of Wayward Spirits gets involved, Jane's life at Thornfield Hall becomes far more complicated than she ever imagined. This book is perfect for children and teens who love historical settings mixed with a healthy dose of the supernatural and laugh-out-loud comedy.

Ideal for readers interested in clever retellings, this story balances romance, mystery, and a touch of the macabre. It is a great choice for fans of the first book in the series, My Lady Jane, or anyone who enjoys seeing classic literature turned on its head with modern sensibilities and strong female leads. Parents will appreciate the focus on friendship and finding one's own path in a world that often tries to dictate it.

Highlights:

• A hilarious and supernatural twist on a beloved literary classic.
• Features a strong, independent female protagonist who defies social norms.
• Perfect for fans of historical fiction with a magical or paranormal element.
• Engaging multi-perspective storytelling that keeps readers hooked.

My Side of the Mountain is a beloved Newbery Honor classic that captures the ultimate childhood dream: leaving the city behind to live in the wild. Twelve-year-old Sam Gribley, tired of his cramped New York City life, heads to the Catskill Mountains with little more than a penknife and his own wits. This gripping tale of survival follows Sam as he carves out a home inside a hollowed-out hemlock tree, learns to forage for food, and even trains a peregrine falcon named Frightful to help him hunt. It is an essential read for any child who has ever looked at the woods and wondered if they could make it on their own.

This book is perfect for children who love nature, camping, and stories of rugged independence. Jean Craighead George’s detailed descriptions of the natural world and Sam’s ingenious survival techniques make the story feel incredibly real and inspiring. It is an ideal choice for readers interested in wilderness skills, animal companionship, and the quiet beauty of the great outdoors. Whether read as a classroom staple or a personal adventure, Sam’s journey of self-discovery remains a timeless masterpiece for middle-grade readers.

Highlights:

• A classic survival story that celebrates resourcefulness and independence.
• Richly detailed descriptions of wilderness living and falconry.
• Perfect for fans of Hatchet and outdoor adventure stories.
• Explores deep themes of self-reliance and the human connection to nature.

Step back into the magical world of the Newbery Honor-winning Ella Enchanted with this captivating tale of magic, medicine, and self-discovery. Evie is a talented young healer who loves nothing more than diagnosing symptoms and helping her community. But when she rejects a marriage proposal from her best friend, the meddling fairy Lucinda decides to teach her a lesson. Suddenly, Evie is transformed into a hideous, hungry ogre, and she has only sixty-two days to find someone to marry—or remain a monster forever.

This enchanting story is perfect for children who love fairy tale retellings with a modern twist. Readers will follow Evie as she struggles to maintain her humanity while battling ogre instincts, all while searching for a way to break the curse on her own terms. It is an ideal choice for readers interested in stories about strong heroines who defy expectations and value their independence. Gail Carson Levine once again delivers a world filled with whimsy, danger, and heart.

Highlights:

• A clever and independent protagonist who prioritizes her career as a healer.
• A unique perspective on a classic fairy tale curse with high stakes and a ticking clock.
• Explores deep themes of identity, inner beauty, and the meaning of true love.
• Set in the beloved world of Ella Enchanted, making it a must-read for fans.

In the tenth installment of the wildly popular Diary of a Wimpy Kid series, Greg Heffley faces his biggest challenge yet: the great outdoors. When his town decides to "unplug" for a weekend and his parents insist that life was better in the old days, Greg finds himself struggling to survive without the comforts of modern technology. Things go from bad to worse when he is sent to Hardscrabble Farm for a week-long school trip, where he must contend with hard labor, outdoor living, and the terrifying legend of Silas Scratch.

Jeff Kinney’s signature blend of 50% words and 50% cartoons makes this an ideal choice for reluctant readers and fans of visual storytelling. This book is perfect for children who love laugh-out-loud humor and relatable tales of middle school awkwardness. Whether your child is a long-time fan of Greg Heffley or new to the series, Old School offers a hilarious exploration of the generation gap and the struggle to adapt to a world without electronics. It is a great choice for parents looking to encourage independent reading through engaging, high-interest content.

Highlights:

• Hilarious commentary on the differences between modern life and the "old days."
• Engaging hybrid format of text and comic illustrations that appeals to all reading levels.
• Relatable themes of school trips, friendship dynamics, and family expectations.
• Perfect for fans of funny, realistic fiction and graphic novel hybrids.

In this gripping sequel to the classic My Side of the Mountain, Sam Gribley’s peaceful life in the Catskill Mountains is turned upside down. While Sam has mastered the art of wilderness survival, new challenges arise when his younger sister, Alice, joins him in the woods. Their quiet existence is shattered when a conservation officer takes away Sam’s beloved falcon, Frightful, and Alice mysteriously disappears. Sam must use every skill he has learned to track his sister across the dangerous terrain of the far side of the mountain.

This novel is an ideal choice for readers interested in outdoor survival, nature, and the deep bond between humans and animals. Jean Craighead George expertly weaves technical knowledge of the wilderness with a high-stakes mystery that keeps readers turning pages. It is perfect for children who love stories about independence and the great outdoors, making it a great choice for fans of Gary Paulsen’s Hatchet or those who enjoyed Sam’s first adventure.

Highlights:

• Thrilling wilderness survival and tracking elements
• Exploration of the strong bond between siblings
• Rich details about falconry and mountain ecosystems
• A compelling mystery involving a missing person