List
2020 Staff Picks 2020: Grades 4-5
Our favorite books of 2020 for kids in 4th and 5th grade.
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The One and Only Bob
2020 by Applegate, KatherineGet this itemIf the author had asked my opinion, I would have said do not write a sequel to The One and Only Ivan, a book beloved by me and so many other kids and adults. I'm so glad she didn't ask my opinion, because The One and Only Bob doesn't disappoint. The animals are wonderful and wise and funny, and the humans are great too. There's big adventure and a twist too! Recommended by Shelley.
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Aru Shah and the Tree of Wishes
2020 by Chokshi, RoshaniGet this itemI am always pleased to delve into mythological fiction, and I’ve loved each book in this series (this is the third). It’s an action-packed fantasy/adventure, with plot twists, likable characters, and amusing dialogue. Aru Shah is the best to have on any type of quest. Recommended by Sharon.
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When Stars Are Scattered
2020 by Jamieson, VictoriaGet this itemI feel like I learned so much about what life in a refugee camp is like for so many children. Recommended by Karen.
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Stepping Stones
2020 by Knisley, LucyGet this itemThere are a lot of tough parts in this graphic novel, but I love the way the main character, Jen, tries to deal with them. Recommended by Shelley.
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What Lane?
2020 by Maldonado, TorreyGet this itemI rooted for Stephen the whole way through. I like how this book asks some tough questions but also provides some answers and actions for kids who want to make the world a better place for everyone. Recommended by Caitlin S.
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From the Desk of Zoe Washington
2020 by Marks, JanaeGet this itemI love this book because Zoe is such a passionate and smart character. This book left me feeling hopeful. Recommended by Katie.
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Chirp
2020 by Messner, KateGet this itemI love how Mia maneuvers friendships, family relationships, and her own courage to speak up. Plus, there's a grandma who starts a cricket farm! Recommended by Katie.
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The Mayflower
2020 by Messner, KateGet this itemI was never a big fan of history in school, but maybe it's because I never read anything like this! Part graphic novel, part fact-filled history lesson. I love the way this book tells the whole truth, even when it's painful, and still leaves room for laughs. Recommended by Caitlin S.
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Bloom
2020 by Oppel, KennethGet this itemWell, this was an unusual book! It's a science-fiction, survival, adventure story, and it's impossible to put down. Recommended by Shelley.
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Anti/Hero
2020 by Quinn, Kate KaryusGet this itemThis book is fun! A modern twist on the old body-swap story…with superheroes? Yes! I’m looking forward to the sequel. Recommended by Caitlin S.
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The List of Things That Will Not Change
2020 by Stead, RebeccaGet this itemI love this book because it realistically deals with disappointment, something that we all experience, but that is hard to write about. Life is complicated, relationships are complicated, and nothing is simplified here. Recommended by Gudrun.
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Brave Like That
2020 by Stoddard, LindseyGet this itemI love this great story about kindness, bullying, and a boy who figures out who he is and how to stand up for himself. I may or may not have teared up while reading this. Recommended by Meleesa.
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Clean Getaway
2020 by Stone, NicGet this itemI love a book with great characters, and Scoob and G’ma are awesome. It's the mark of a good book when, in real life, you worry about the characters. Plus, an adventure that's touching and funny and takes place in an RV? Sign us up. Recommended by Caitlin S.
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The Runaway Princess
2020 by Troïanowski, JohanGet this itemI really like this graphic novel. The artwork is wonderful, and I especially love the puzzles, mazes, dot-to-dot, and other interactive things! Recommended by Karen.
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Wayside School beneath the Cloud of Doom
2020 by Sachar, LouisGet this itemThis book is light, silly, and a fun read. Recommended by Karen.
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Ways to Make Sunshine
2020 by Watson, RenéeGet this itemI love the way the main character, Ryan, manages to stay positive and in love with life, even when her family goes through tough times. For readers who love Ramona, this family also lives in Portland, OR, and in many other ways they remind me of the Quimbys. Recommended by Shelley.
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