Kids love superheroes, but I’ve found that the superhero plot is lacking in books that aren’t comics or graphic novels. I’ve only read a handful of middle grade books about superheroes, so I did a deep dive to see what’s available for readers who like stories like these. The result is this list. I’ve rounded up some of the best titles, including one about a boy with a photographic memory and a graphic novel about a girl training to be a supervillain. These books are adventurous, funny, and fast-paced — kids will love them!
Graphic Novel Review | Swim Team
After she and her dad move from Brooklyn to Florida, Bree is excited for her first day in middle school. But also, she’s super anxious about whether she’ll make friends and fit in. Thankfully, she makes a new friend in the housing complex where they live. Unfortunately, when Bree goes to choose her math club elective, it’s fully booked. As a math lover who can’t swim, she’s crushed to hear that the only elective left is swim 101.
Picture Books About Gratitude
Teaching kids to say thank you or practice gratitude, in general, is an essential part of their upbringing. These picture books about gratitude show kids how it’s done. Whether it’s Thanksgiving or not, use these delightful books to help your kids develop a practice of gratitude.
Joke Books for Kids
Kids love a good funny book. If you’ve already flown through our lists of funny picture books and funny middle grade books, you might want to look into this list of joke books for kids! They’re perfect for kids who like to laugh at silly jokes and better still for those who like to tickle others with jokes. The books on this list are great for kids as young as age 5, if you’re willing to read to them (if they aren’t already readers!).
Children’s Picture Books About Growth Mindset
Growth mindset picture books teach kids that they can learn new things, adapt to changes, and find solutions to recurring problems. I struggled with breaking out of a fixed mindset even until my adult years, so I think it’s wonderful that kids have access to books like this at such a young age. These stories are all sweet, inspiring and encouraging. If you want to teach your kids how to be resilient, these picture books about growth mindset are a great place to start.
Middle Grade Books to Make You Cry
I don’t like sad books. I avoid them like the plague, even. But once in a while, some books trick me by being so well-written, I’m already immersed before I realize it’s going to be a tear-jerker. While making this list of middle grade books to make you cry, I chose most of my favorites. These stories are enrapturing, sad, but also satisfying. They’re not a continuous drag of sadness but are often interspersed with humor, heartwarming scenes, and end on a bright, hopeful note. If that sounds like your kind of sad story, then this is for you.