As summer begins to creep around the corner, there’s no better way to keep your middle-grade readers entertained and busy than by getting them into reading! Here are 5 books ranging from sci-fi and fantasy to realistic fiction to get the age 8-12-year-olds in your life passionate about reading.

The Aquanaut by Dan Santat

Sophia wanders around Aqualand saddened by the fact that her father was lost at sea. However when she comes face-to-face with an “aquanaut” at the park, she is stunned, and upon discovering that this aquanaut is composed of a band of sea creatures her world is taken for a spin.

The Boy Who met a Whale by Nizrana Farook

In a vibrant setting inspired by Sri Lanka, Farook takes us on an adventure with the protagonist Rhazi, a local fisherboy,  who encounters a shipwrecked Zheng and his family who are on the run from a group of villains. To make things worse,  it’s not only the villains they have to look out for but a lurking giant sea monster as well.

Caprice by Coe Booth

This deeply honest and thoughtful book from Bronx native Coe Booth, tells the story of the titular protagonist’s journey to proclaim her truth, ask for help from those around her, and choose a path for her future. 

Sofia Acosta Makes a Scene by Emma Otheguy

Sofia’s family, united by their Cuban heritage and, of course, dance (both of Sofia’s parents were in the ballet) have made the United States their home, and when Sofia makes the mistake of sharing a secret that they’re helping another Cuban family come to the U.S., she begins to wonder if she and her family really belong. 

Operation Sisterhood by Olugbemisola Rhuday-Perkovich

Bronx Bred Olugbemisola Rhuday Perkovich, tells the story of Bo and her mother move to Harlem with her mother’s boyfriend, they find themselves in a brownstone that is bustling with life. With chickens, a dog, a cat, and three other young girls, Bo worries whether there’s room for her.