Part II of the series…where do I begin when trying to find books for Christmas gifts?! Part I included suggestions of LOTS of books for K-1st and 2nd-3rdgrade students. Here, I’m going to make suggestions for upper elementary readers and then make suggestions for our middle school readers. Again, when it comes to independent reading, sometimes it is nice to just curl up with a good book that we LOVE…regardless of what grade level it might be associated with or its level. I know that I tend to curl up by the fireplace during the break and enjoy reading new books that I think students might love…definitely not worried about my level as I get lost in the stories.
The following suggestions are books that I have read, books that some of my co-workers have read, and books that a friend of mine…the one mentioned in the last blog post with two middle school kids (one girl and one boy)…says her kids simply cannot put down! If middle school kids say the books are good…then I think I’m going to believe them.
Upper elementary and middle school suggestions
I’m big on exposing kids to different series…just because if they LOVE it, then there are a lot of other books that they can then select at the library to enjoy reading as well!
I Survived! Series – This series is written about different events in history, to include wars and natural disasters. The stories are from the perspective of survivors and what it was like during that time period or in the midst of that event. The books are not “too big” for students who are not keen on novels, but they capture their attention from the get-go. I know a few middle school kids who still look for these in the bookstore, hoping to get their hands on the newest release.
Who Is…? What Is…? Where Is…? Series – This series is fabulous in terms of getting kids into reading about biographies, famous places, and famous events. It takes the non-fiction encyclopedia feel out of reading about these topics. The covers catch the reader’s attention right away.
Well, hopefully these two blog posts helped you to select some great new books for some special readers in your life! There are SO many more great books out there…keep on reading and sharing that love for great books with kids!
