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2024 Staff Picks: Fiction and Graphic Novels for Grade 6-8

By Skokie Staff Youth Services

From funny to fantasy, realistic to historical, there's something for every middle-schooler to love here.

  • Plain Jane and the Mermaid

    2024 by Brosgol, Vera

    I had a blast following Jane on her underwater quest to rescue her future husband and reclaim her inheritance from her scheming cousin. As she makes new friends and bests wacky villains of the deep, Jane’s confidence grows. This graphic novel turns the damsel in distress trope on its head in the best way! Suggested by Lill.

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  • Across So Many Seas

    2024 by Behar, Ruth

    I loved this historical fiction title that feels so relevant today. The story follows girls of the same family over the span of several centuries. I think it's perfect for fans of Alan Gratz books. Suggested by Gudrun.

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  • The Pale Queen

    2024 by Aldridge, Ethan M.

    I loved the relatable heroine in this graphic novel that explores confidence and bravery. Suggested by Susanne.

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  • A Game of Noctis

    2024 by Fagan, Deva

    I appreciated Fagan's detailed world-building and complicated characters as well as the inclusion of a variety of games. This novel did an excellent job incorporating social status, rules, and societal norms into the plot in a way that allows young readers to see how they can constructively challenge what they think they know. Suggested by Eilis.

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  • We Are Big Time

    2024 by Khan, Hena

    I really liked this graphic novel about a Muslim girls' basketball team. It had a laugh-out-loud funny moment, and heartwarming moments too. Suggested by Amanda.

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  • Wires Crossed

    2024 by Fantaskey, Beth

    This book did a good job showing how confusing it can be to navigate change in our interpersonal relations while trying to remain grounded in oneself. It has sports, art, and science, and most important, friendship. Suggested by Hayaat.

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  • I Hope This Doesn't Find You

    2024 by Liang, Ann

    This book was absolutely adorable. I loved the sarcasm and the banter between Julius and Sadie. I chuckled quite a lot during their conversations. I also enjoyed Sadie’s self growth. Suggested by Rummanah.

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  • Not If You Break up with Me First

    2024 by Miller, G. F.

    I absolutely loved this book! It made me smile and laugh out loud. I could not put this pitch perfect rom-com down. Suggested by Rummanah.

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  • The Beautiful Game

    2024 by Mňdez, Yamile Saied

    I really enjoyed the author's clear appreciation for soccer, as well as the focus on teamwork. I appreciated how topics like a "nontraditional" family structure (grandparents raising grandchildren), menstrual health, and toxic masculinity were represented and handled well. Suggested by Eilis.

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  • The Wrong Way Home

    2024 by O'Shaughnessy, Kate

    I loved main character Fern’s bravery in this story about navigating big life changes. With friends and family by her side, she learns to accept some difficult truths in this realistic read. Suggested by Brenna.

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  • What's Eating Jackie Oh?

    2024 by Park, Patricia

    I loved this book because it deals with complex family relationships, current social issues, and a competitive cooking show all while being hilarious and heartbreaking. Suggested by Christine.

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  • Kareem Between

    2024 by Shifa Saltagi Safadi

    I loved this book! A great middle grade novel in verse about belonging, identity, standing up for what you believe in, and football. Highly recommended for fans of Kwame Alexander Crossover series. Suggested by Rummanah.

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