
Double Fudge
by Judy Blume
In the final installment of Judy Blume’s beloved Fudge series, the Hatcher family is back with more chaos than ever. This time, five-year-old Fudge has developed a hilarious yet exhausting obsession with money. From creating his own "Fudge Bucks" to dreaming of buying the entire world, Fudge’s antics keep his older brother, Peter, on his toes. This book is perfect for children who love funny family stories and relatable sibling dynamics that mirror the ups and downs of real life.
The plot thickens when the Hatchers cross paths with their long-lost relatives, the Howie Hatchers. Peter and Fudge must navigate life with annoying twin cousins and a younger cousin who is also named Farley Drexel Hatcher—just like Fudge! This "mini-Fudge" proves to be just as much trouble as the original, leading to a series of laugh-out-loud adventures. It is an ideal choice for readers interested in humorous realistic fiction and those who enjoy seeing how families handle eccentric relatives and unexpected surprises.
Highlights:
- Hilarious sibling dynamics between the long-suffering Peter and the eccentric Fudge.
- Relatable themes of family reunions and dealing with annoying relatives.
- An engaging and funny exploration of a child's first fascination with money and value.
- Written by legendary author Judy Blume, making it a must-read for fans of classic children's literature.

Fudge-a-Mania
by Judy Blume
In Fudge-a-Mania, Peter Hatcher is facing his worst nightmare: a three-week summer vacation in Maine sharing a house right next door to his arch-nemesis, Sheila Tubman. As if "Sheila the Cootie Queen" wasn't enough to handle, Peter's five-year-old brother, Fudge, has developed a hilarious and horrifying obsession with marrying her. This classic Judy Blume tale perfectly captures the chaotic energy of family vacations, the trials of sibling rivalry, and the awkwardness of growing up.
This book is a fantastic choice for children who enjoy relatable, laugh-out-loud stories about family dynamics and school-age drama. Parents will appreciate the timeless humor and the realistic portrayal of childhood frustrations. It is an ideal read for fans of the Diary of a Wimpy Kid series or anyone who loves a good story about surviving a summer with an annoying younger sibling.
Highlights:
- Hilarious sibling interactions between Peter and the unpredictable Fudge.
- A relatable "enemies-to-frenemies" dynamic with the iconic Sheila Tubman.
- A fun, summery setting that captures the spirit of a family vacation.
- Timeless humor from legendary children's author Judy Blume.

Mein Lotta-Leben - Das Reinste Katzentheater
by Alice Pantermüller
Lotta Petermann ist zurück! In diesem zehnten Band der beliebten Reihe wird es gewohnt turbulent. Lotta und ihre beste Freundin Cheyenne stürzen sich in ein neues Abenteuer: Babysitting. Eigentlich klang die Idee, auf Cheyennes kleinen Bruder Rocco aufzupassen, nach einer Menge Spaß. Doch Lotta merkt schnell, dass kleine Brüder eine echte Herausforderung sein können. Mit ihrem typischen Humor und ihrer Blockflöte bewaffnet, versucht Lotta, das Chaos im „Katzentheater“ zu bändigen.
Dieses Buch ist perfekt für Kinder, die lustige Alltagsgeschichten im Tagebuchstil lieben. Die einzigartige Mischung aus Text und witzigen Illustrationen macht es zum idealen Lesestoff für Lesemuffel und Fans von humorvollen Mädchengeschichten. Es ist eine großartige Wahl für Leserinnen, die sich für Themen wie Freundschaft, Familie und die kleinen Katastrophen des Schulalltags interessieren.
Highlights:
- Witziger Comic-Roman-Stil mit vielen kreativen Illustrationen
- Authentische und humorvolle Einblicke in das Leben einer jungen Schülerin
- Thematisiert Freundschaft und erste Verantwortung auf unterhaltsame Weise

Middle School: My Brother Is a Big, Fat Liar
by James Patterson
Georgia Khatchadorian is finally entering Hills Village Middle School, and she has a plan: she is going to be everything her troublemaking brother, Rafe, was not. While Rafe spent his time breaking every rule in the book, Georgia is determined to be popular, successful, and well-liked. She even makes a bet with her brother that she will become one of the most popular girls in school. However, Georgia quickly realizes that escaping Rafe's shadow is harder than she thought, especially when his bad reputation precedes her and his sneaky pranks start ruining her social life.
This hilarious installment in the Middle School series is perfect for children who love funny, relatable stories about the trials and tribulations of sixth grade. Ideal for readers interested in sibling rivalries and school-based comedies, this book offers a fresh perspective from Georgia's point of view. It is a great choice for fans of Diary of a Wimpy Kid or Dork Diaries who enjoy fast-paced plots filled with humor and heart.
Highlights:
- A funny and relatable look at middle school social hierarchies and the quest for popularity.
- Explores the complex but loving bond between siblings and the struggle to define one's own identity.
- Perfect for reluctant readers who enjoy illustrated fiction and fast-paced humor.
- Features a strong, opinionated female protagonist finding her own voice in a new environment.

Middle School: Ultimate Showdown
by James Patterson
Middle School: Ultimate Showdown is an exciting, interactive addition to James Patterson's beloved series that puts the reader right in the middle of the action. Siblings Rafe and Georgia Khatchadorian are at it again, but this time, they want you to take a side! This book is perfect for children who love the Diary of a Wimpy Kid style of storytelling, blending hilarious anecdotes with over 200 illustrations and engaging activities. It is an ideal choice for readers interested in school life, sibling dynamics, and creative expression.
Throughout the book, Rafe and Georgia trade barbs on everything from cafeteria food to strict dress codes, providing more than 40 writing and drawing prompts that encourage kids to share their own opinions. This interactive format makes it a great choice for reluctant readers who might find traditional novels intimidating. Whether they are doodling their own inventions or writing about their worst school days, children will find themselves fully immersed in the Khatchadorian world.
Highlights:
- Interactive format with over 40 writing and drawing prompts.
- Hilarious sibling rivalry between fan-favorites Rafe and Georgia.
- Over 200 illustrations that bring the story and activities to life.
- Perfect for fans of humorous, diary-style middle grade fiction.

One False Note
by Gordon Korman
In the second installment of the global sensation The 39 Clues, siblings Amy and Dan Cahill find themselves in a heart-pounding race across Europe. After discovering a mysterious sheet of music in Vienna, the duo must follow the trail of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart to find the next clue. However, they aren't the only ones on the hunt. Their wealthy and dangerous relatives are hot on their heels, willing to do anything—from hotel break-ins to high-speed boat chases—to stop them. This fast-paced adventure is perfect for children who love solving puzzles and enjoy stories filled with international intrigue.
Gordon Korman brings his signature humor and high-energy writing to this sequel, making it an ideal choice for readers interested in history, geography, and complex mysteries. As Amy and Dan navigate the streets of Venice and the secrets of the past, they must learn to trust each other and rely on their unique strengths to survive. Great choice for fans of A Series of Unfortunate Events or The Mysterious Benedict Society, this book keeps readers on the edge of their seats until the very last page.
Highlights:
- Non-stop action featuring speedboat chases and narrow escapes.
- Intriguing historical connections to Mozart and classical music.
- Strong focus on sibling teamwork and overcoming family rivalry.
- Engaging puzzle-solving elements that encourage critical thinking.

The Bad Beginning
by Lemony Snicket
The Bad Beginning is the darkly humorous and delightfully miserable first installment in Lemony Snicket's world-renowned series. After a tragic house fire leaves the three Baudelaire siblings—Violet, Klaus, and Sunny—orphaned, they are sent to live with the treacherous Count Olaf. This villainous guardian is far more interested in the children's inheritance than their well-being, forcing the siblings to use their unique talents to escape his clutches. It is a perfect choice for children who love stories with clever protagonists, gothic atmospheres, and a touch of the macabre.
Ideal for readers interested in mysteries that don't always have a happy ending, this book stands out for its sophisticated vocabulary and meta-fictional narration. Parents looking for a series that encourages critical thinking and resilience will find the Baudelaires' adventures both entertaining and thought-provoking. Great choice for fans of Roald Dahl or Neil Gaiman, this classic tale of woe is a must-read for middle-grade audiences who appreciate wit and irony.
Highlights:
- Introduces three resourceful siblings with distinct skills: inventing, researching, and biting.
- Features a memorable, theatrical villain in the scheming Count Olaf.
- Uses a unique narrative voice that defines words and warns readers of the impending gloom.
- A fast-paced mystery that emphasizes the importance of family bonds and intellect.

The Penderwicks in Spring
by Jeanne Birdsall
Springtime has arrived on Gardam Street, and the beloved Penderwick family is back with more heart and hilarity than ever. In this fourth installment of the modern classic series, the focus shifts to Batty, the youngest Penderwick sister, who is now ten years old. As she starts a new dog-walking business to save up for a special family surprise, she navigates the complexities of growing up, unexpected secrets, and the return of old friends. This charming tale is perfect for children who love stories about close-knit families, loyal pets, and the bittersweet moments of childhood.
Ideal for readers interested in realistic fiction and character-driven narratives, The Penderwicks in Spring explores what happens when long-held secrets come to light. Jeanne Birdsall's writing captures the essence of a modern-day Little Women, making it a great choice for fans of Noel Streatfeild and Edward Eager. Whether your child is a longtime fan of the series or discovering Gardam Street for the first time, this book offers a warm, engaging experience that celebrates the enduring bonds of family and friendship.
Highlights:
- A heartwarming focus on Batty Penderwick's growth and independence.
- Explores deep emotional themes like family secrets and reconciliation.
- Features a delightful cast of dogs and charming neighborhood adventures.
- Perfect for fans of classic family sagas and realistic middle-grade fiction.

The Penderwicks on Gardam Street
by Jeanne Birdsall
The Penderwick sisters—Rosalind, Skye, Jane, and Batty—are back in their home on Gardam Street, but a new challenge awaits them. When their Aunt Claire decides it is time for their widowed father to start dating again, the girls are horrified. Fearing a wicked stepmother might enter their lives, they concoct the 'Save-Daddy Plan,' a series of hilarious and heartfelt schemes designed to keep their family exactly as it is. This modern classic captures the essence of childhood with its blend of everyday adventures, sibling bonds, and the warmth of a loving home.
Perfect for children who love stories about close-knit families and humorous mishaps, The Penderwicks on Gardam Street is an ideal choice for readers interested in realistic fiction that feels timeless. Jeanne Birdsall’s writing is reminiscent of beloved authors like Noel Streatfeild, making it a great choice for fans of The Railway Children or Little Women. It is a story that celebrates the unique personalities of each sister while exploring the complexities of growing up and moving forward after loss.
Highlights:
- A heartwarming and funny exploration of sibling dynamics and family loyalty.
- Engaging 'Save-Daddy Plan' plot that keeps readers entertained with high jinks.
- Relatable characters that deal with school, friendships, and first crushes.
- A modern classic that appeals to both children and nostalgic parents.
