(Inside: Freshman year of high school is a milestone transition for both the moms and the kids. Moms, this is how you mentally prepare for freshman year of high school.)
I watched from the driver’s seat as my oldest son shut the passenger door and walk towards the high school entrance for freshman orientation.
My eyes shut and opened, and the scene changed.
Instead, I saw a small blond-headed kindergartner proudly sporting his Captain America backpack turn to make sure he caught my eye. He lingered, smiled, and waved.
Then I blinked again and was back to watching a 6’1’’ freshman’s back getting smaller.
It felt strange.
Freshman year of high school can be challenging for both the mom and the kid. Join our community of moms raising older kids and be encouraged. Join here.
I’d never not gone with him to see him meet his teachers, find his classroom(s), and unpack his school supplies in his locker.
From kindergarten to 8th grade, bustling around the school with other parents and their students is the only norm I knew.
As I observed my son gather with his peers outside the main door, unexpected big emotions swirled. But how exactly did I feel? It was hard to pinpoint: Disappointment that I can’t go with him? Pride that he’s getting independent? Disbelief that I’m old enough to have a high school kid?
My muddled feelings, though, pointed me to this truth: my role as a parent just changed.
I just took a new place in his journey – a few steps back.
I know these next four years will be important years with big life lessons. To grow and mature he needs to learn to navigate his path with independence. But still, I catch my breath at this change.
Because I know people are going to hold his heart who don’t deserve it.
Yes, he will make solid life-long friends, but these years are when his peers are figuring themselves out too. So, sometimes he’ll be overlooked or mistreated or not cherished the way I’d like to see, and it’s all a part of growing up. He’ll learn the value of true friendships and how to navigate the social scene.
However, as he maneuvers through peer relationships, even though my role has changed, he’ll still need me. And I’ll be waiting – simply a few steps back.
I also know expectations are higher.
Grades count. ACT scores stick. Teams start cutting. Clubs do adult things like build robots and give speeches. In it all, he’ll start figuring out his skill-set and interests and direction. Then, everyone will be asking where he wants to go to college and what are his post-graduation plans – he’s going to experience a new kind of pressure.
However, as he maneuvers through learning about himself and finding direction, even though my role has changed, he’ll still need me. And I’ll be waiting – simply a few steps back.
Responsibilities grow.
From getting a job to learning to drive, he learns to manage more. His schedule becomes his charge as the school staff and coaches and bosses communicate with him and not me. In these years, he’ll get a glimpse of adulting.
However, as he learns to get organized and manage heavier responsibilities, even though my role has changed, he’ll still need me. And I’ll be waiting – simply a few steps back.
There will be joy and struggle.
He’ll find success in unexpected ways, and his confidence will grow. But also, he’ll mess up and be disappointed. And sometimes, I will draw the line on important things and say “no” to remind him who he is – a good kid growing into a good man. I will also get to cheer him on and tell him how he makes me so proud.
As he goes through the highs and lows of the teen years, even though my role has changed, he’ll still need me. And I’ll be waiting – simply a few steps back.
Just like in elementary school and in middle school, the homework assignments and practices and homecomings and evenings-with-friends-over will all tick by so fast.
I’ll blink, and he’ll be in a cap and gown receiving his diploma.
But, I’m not there yet, I’m sitting here in the car at the start of this journey. My hands maneuvered the steering wheel out of the drop-off zone. Even though I began inching away, a piece of my heart stayed. And a mourning for that little boy and his Captain America backpack flashed through me.
Yet, I also felt something else: gratitude I get to be with him during these next four impactful years – what a gift!
Join this community of moms raising tweens and teens
You just dropped one kid off at practice, picked up another, and are trying to decide what to make for dinner. Your days are filled with work, parenting, and waiting for password reset emails.
You are parenting tweens and teens.
It’s an amazing life-phase, but also challenging in unique ways. In it all, you’d love a little encouragement to help you laugh, grow in faith, see parenting hacks, get ideas to connect with your kid, and celebrate the awesome momma you are.
I got you, friend. Sign up for Empowered Moms and Kids monthly emails and get encouragement in your inbox geared for someone exactly in your life-chapter. It’s totally free and you can unsubscribe at any time.
Plus, you’ll get instant access to all the great resources in the freebie library.Join our community here or below.
Read the full Help Your Kid Thrive in School Series
As a high school teacher for over two decades, I love, love, love watching kids learn. It’s okay if there are struggles in their educational journey. Not just okay – normal, even. We just keep stressing the importance of education and giving them the tools of success. And then we encourage our kids and love them well.
Freshman year of high school can be challenging for both the mom and the kid. Join our community of moms raising older kids and be encouraged. Join here.
Cheryl is a mom of 3 boys, wife, speaker, high school teacher, and author of Empowered Moms & Kids. She has a Master’s degree in Educational Leadership and is passionate about learning and teaching. On www.empoweredmomsandkids.com you’ll find inspiration and encouragement for moms raising tweens and/or teens. Read more in the “about” section of this page.
(Inside: Graduation sentiments for the class of 2020. Why the class of 2020’s graduation celebration was extra amazing.)
I wondered if the socially distanced graduation would be special enough for our cherished class of 2020.
As a teacher, I love working high school graduation. The walking across the stage, the mid-shake-pause-and-smile for the camera, the speeches, the music, the sea of family members, the energy of pride and hope – graduation always feels sacred.
Of all the things the class of 2020 lost in the end-of-the year-pandemic-let-down (spring activities and prom and moments together), I mourned their loss of graduation the most.
When I heard that the high school where I teach was going to host a graduation processional, all I thought was is that special enough for these remarkable young people?
Cars and signs and balloons and seniors – the parade happened.
A week later, I find myself thinking back to this event, trying to engrave memories permanently in my brain. It was so special – way more than I could have ever imagined. This is what I always want to remember…
Connect with your family over these 400+ conversation starters. Grab them here.
I want to remember what the entrance to the path the seniors followed through the school grounds looked like.
Hundreds of professionally-made signs, one for each senior, boasted the school emblem and a congratulations message with the senior’s name. In neat rows, the sheer number looked impressive and beautifully greeted our seniors.
I want to remember the hundred-plus school staff lined up.
Our clothes flashed the school colors, we waved pom-poms, we held clever signs (math department: Good luck and “calc – u – later”), balloons shimmered, a dry-ice concoction created fog (thank you, science department), and we clapped noise-makers. There were smiles, laughter, cheering, and so much love.
I want to remember the look of our seniors’ faces.
Big eyes became liquid eyes as the staff cheered “Congratulations,” “We’re so proud of you!”, “We’ll miss you!”, “Come back and visit us!”
I want to remember how many cars were transformed into float-like creations.
The doors boasted senior pictures and words like “University of Minnesota bound” and “I’m 2020% done!” There were streamers and balloons and a giant paper-mache graduation cap riding on the top of one vehicle.
I want to remember our seniors in all of their glory.
Some sitting on the passenger windows, perching on the back of convertibles, championing bucket seats behind open van doors, standing through sunroofs (one playing her sax), commanding armchairs in the back of trucks, or towering in a sky-high semi cab. (Yes, everyone, lift those seniors up!)
I want to remember the long line of family cars behind the one showcasing the seniors
Smiley grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins. (“Congrats, families! We’ll miss you too!”)
Multiple phones in one car capturing it all, it felt like no one wanted to miss a moment.
I want to remember the students who went through the line three, four or more times
to wave again and again because we all wanted to linger
Connect with your family over these 400+ conversation starters. Grab them here.
I want to remember the moms who got out of their cars
and from a coronavirus-safe distance videoed the parade from a new angle, snapped pictures of the teachers, and offered kind words to the staff.
I want to remember how beautiful our seniors looked
beaming in their cap and gowns.
I want to remember how good it felt for all of us to see each other.
Students, parents, families, teachers, administrators – our faces lit up, our hearts celebrated just by being in the same place.
Every graduation is special. But there was something extra beautiful about a community that came together after being apart for so long.
I worried the class of 2020 wouldn’t get enough; instead, I felt like they got more –
More hype.
More gratitude.
More connection.
More celebration.
More pride.
More joy.
Of all the graduations I’ve worked, the graduation celebration for the class of 2020 has been my favorite.
Join this community of moms raising tweens and teens
Your brain bounces between your day at work, what time(s) your kids need to be at practice, your teen’s missing school assignments, that you haven’t called your mom lately, the load of the laundry to be switched, “What’s for dinner?” and “Why are 3 of my brain-tabs frozen?”
You are raising tweens and teens – the unique parenting phase where everything gets easier…and harder.
We’re finally believing all those “they grow so fast” comments. This is your last hurray with kids in your home and you want to love every minute.
You’re taking a second look at your career, your hobbies, how to share your gifts and talents.
Parenting grows your faith and then makes you wonder where your faith is.
You long for friendships and deep relationships, but you’re just so busy.
You’d love a quick place to connect and feel encouraged.
Cheryl is a mom of 3 boys, wife, speaker, high school teacher, and author of Empowered Moms & Kids. She has a Master’s degree in Educational Leadership and is passionate about learning and teaching. On www.empoweredmomsandkids.com you’ll find inspiration and encouragement for moms raising tweens and/or teens. Read more in the “about” section of this page.
(Inside: Distance learning can be hard. But, students who moved to online school during this pandemic, you nailed distance learning, and here’s why.)
To Our Kids,
We want to talk to you about eLearning. Not to criticize, but instead, to tell you – we see you.
We know this eLearning thing has taken some getting used to. This “break” from school isn’t what you’re familiar with – spring break, winter break, Memorial Day weekend.
In it all, we see you.
We see you getting up when you’d rather sleep in to go after your eLearning. We see you clicking all over the Schoology, Google Classroom, and Seesaw sites trying to find where all the information is. We see you adjusting to all of your teachers organizing their classes in different ways.
We see you watching videos and taking notes and googling “hyperbole in poetry” so that you can put your assignment together and submit it. We see you learning to teach yourself.
We see you figuring out how to organize your day to best set yourself up for success. We see you bounce from the couch to the kitchen table to your bedroom, figuring out WHERE you learn best. We see you trying out different times of day, figuring out WHEN you learn best. We see you cranking through all of the material; then at a different time, taking lots of breaks, figuring out HOW you learn best.
And when you get behind and there are conflicts between us about it, know we still see you – we know this has all been unsettling and motivation sometimes is hard to find. But we see you go back to eLearning and catching up despite your big feelings.
Also, we feel your disappointment.
Spring musicals, sports, clubs, end-of-the-school-year celebrations, prom, awards nights, graduation – we know you’ve forever anticipated those activities and milestones. We also know you miss your friends, your teachers, and the energy of the school building. Even though people tell you there’s so much to be grateful for (there is!), it’s okay to be disappointed and grieve the loss of important things in your lives. We feel the letdown.
Connect with your family over these 400+ conversation starters. Grab them here.
In watching you navigate distance learning and this experience; we want you to know – we’re proud of you.
Oh, my all-the-stars…We. Are. Proud. Of. You.
You’re figuring it out.
You’re learning to find your voice as you reach out to your teachers for help and direction.
You’re learning so much about yourself, about self-discipline, and about how to steer your own ship.
You’re learning to handle technology like a boss and that will serve you well in your future careers.
You’re figuring out how to keep going through loss and how to focus on the silver linings.
You’re spamming the perseverance button, and we are so proud.
Good job, eLearners. Good job to our beloved warrior kids.
Connect with your family over these 400+ conversation starters. Grab them here.
Join this community of moms raising tweens and teens
You just dropped one kid off at practice, picked up another, and are trying to decide what to make for dinner. Your days are filled with work, parenting, and waiting for password reset emails.
You are parenting tweens and teens.
It’s an amazing life phase, but also challenging in unique ways. In it all, you’d love a little encouragement to help you laugh, grow in faith, see parenting hacks, get ideas to connect with your kid, and celebrate the awesome momma you are.
I got you, friend. Sign up for Empowered Moms and Kids monthly emails and get encouragement in your inbox geared for someone exactly in your life chapter. It’s totally free and you can unsubscribe at any time.
Plus, you’ll get instant access to all the great resources in the freebie library. Join our community here or below.
Cheryl is a mom of 3 boys, wife, speaker, high school teacher, and author of Empowered Moms & Kids. She has a Master’s degree in Educational Leadership and is passionate about learning and teaching. On www.empoweredmomsandkids.com you’ll find inspiration and encouragement for moms raising tweens and/or teens. Read more in the “about” section of this page.
(Inside: My teen has no motivation. What should I do? Help me gain perspective on this!)
My teen has no motivation
I had a wretched evening. My middle school son and I battled over his schoolwork and I felt completely discouraged…
The next morning, I went to a student-of-the-year presentation at the high school where I teach. Each teacher picks a student who has stood out over the year. This award is a big deal.
Low motivation in teens is not uncommon
A teacher stood up with a graduating senior I’d had in previous years. She’d both warmed-my-teacher-heart and broken-my-teacher-heart. Incredibly likable, this girl was kind and fun to be around. But she didn’t like homework, or goals…or really doing anything academic at all.
Despite encouragement and talking-to and phone calls home, her mom and I barely dragged her over the passing line in my class. For three high school years, she struggled to find any success at all in school.
Are you tired of nagging your big kid to take care of their responsibilities? I would through a tough school phase with my son, and communicating through a checklist was a game changer. Read more in the description here.
How this teen became motivated
Then something happened – I don’t know really, but her senior year, we all saw a change in her.
She carried herself differently. With more confidence. Like she’d made up her mind to do well and now she was ready to take some steps.
She started making plans for after graduation – her future excited her. She took on more leadership roles in school – her confidence grew. She focused on getting assignments completed and turned in – her grades went up.
And now she was standing on a stage being applauded by a room full of teachers, administrators, parents, and peers.
Her mom beamed as she came over to say hello after the presentation. I asked, “What changed?” She said, her daughter…
Moms, we keep giving our unmotivated teens the tools to success
No big dramatic moment, instead, at the end of her junior year, she quietly began to “grow up.” All the things her parents and teachers said to her finally started to sink in. And because she’d been given the tools to find success over the years, she knew to pull them out and start testing a few. Also, because everyone unconditionally loved her when she wasn’t using her gifts, I imagine she knew she had nothing to lose by simply trying.
This mom’s words were exactly what I needed to hear.
Just because my kid fought me on completing homework well, doesn’t mean he always will….
And just because our kids don’t always make good choices, doesn’t mean they always will… Just because our kids are moody and cranky with us, doesn’t mean they always will… And just because our kids can seem apathetic with no ambition or direction, it doesn’t mean they always will…
Sometimes kids just need time…
to grow… to let it all sink in… to be a late bloomer… and mature.
Moms, we stay the course. We keep loving and encouraging our kids through the high moments and the low moments. Even if our kids don’t respond to our “motivation” and “wisdom,” we keep giving them tools. We keep placing in their toolbox life lessons and tangible steps of how to be successful along with a ton of unconditional love.
And then we know – we really know and believe… …that maturity will happen…eventually.
Join this mom community of moms of older kids
Are you parenting tweens and teens? Then you’re in the right place and I’d love to stay connected. Get instant access to 17+ helpful freebies and monthly empowering emails by clicking here (or below).
Read more in the helping your big kid thrive in school series…
As a high school teacher for over two decades, I love, love, love watching kids learn. It’s okay if there are struggles in their educational journey. Not just okay – normal, even. We just keep stressing the importance of education and giving them the tools for success. And then we encourage our kids and love them well.
Cheryl is a mom of 3 boys, wife, speaker, high school teacher, and author of Empowered Moms & Kids. She has a Master’s degree in Educational Leadership and is passionate about learning and teaching. On www.empoweredmomsandkids.com you’ll find inspiration and encouragement for moms raising tweens and/or teens. Read more in the “about” section of this page.
(Inside: Book recommendations for high schoolers. A list of compelling books that high schoolers will want to read. Help your teen find a book he/she will love. Improve your student’s reading skills.)
“I love that book!” one student declared to another as she passed me a slip of paper scribbled with her favorite book title. I smiled as I collected more book recommendations. My high school ACT prep class is incredibly diverse, from social-economic class to race, religion, and culture. Yet, here we were all connecting over books. Oh, my heart.
But besides a chance to connect, why was I compiling this list of book recommendations for high schoolers?
The trimester (and my ACT prep course) was ending in November, but my students didn’t take their ACT test until April. They’d put so much work into learning grammar, practicing math, conquering the science section (and more), they were freaking out about losing some of what they’d learned. So we were setting up a continued study plan for the 4 months leading up to the big test day.
Because an important component to succeeding on the ACT test is to be able to read quickly without losing comprehension, we’d hovered on one powerful (and enjoyable) way they could strengthen their reading skills: read for fun.
Which meant we needed a great list of book recommendations for high schoolers.
And when you need an awesome list of books teenagers would actually want to read, you go straight to the source: I asked my students to submit their favorite books. Then, of course, I had to ask the other teachers as well – they have a great pulse on what highschoolers would like to read.
My final list of books is below. I’m excited for my students to enjoy all this reading as they prepare for their ACT test. And I loved watching them connect over this topic. But, even more…
I love that they are reading because they are doing more than connecting and preparing for a test. My students are becoming wise – through stories, diverse perspectives, and education.
I hope you enjoy the reading recommendations too. If you want me to send you this list in a concise pdf to download, click below and it’ll show up in your inbox!
All books are recommended by high school teachers and/or high school students.
This list contains various reading levels.
All books are compelling reads – you’ll find something you’ll like!
Some books have hard topics – read more about the book before you decide if it’s right for you. (I have not read every book.)
Click here if you want instant access to the freebie library to download a concise pdf of this book list.
*This blog post contains affiliate links*
The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind (William Kamkwamba and Bryan Mealer)– Because William Kamkwamba’s family was devastated by the famine in Malawi, Africa, he couldn’t pay his school fees and was forced to drop out. Determined to continue his education, William began reading science books from the village library. He learned how to make a windmill out of bicycle parts and scrap metal. Soon he brought electricity that could pump water to his family’s farm.
A Walk to Remember (Nicholas Sparks)– A popular boy falls for a socially-invisible girl. Then he finds out her horrible secret. This book is a tear-jerker.
Unbroken (Laura Hillenbrand) – Louie Zamperini ‘s (Olympic athlete, Air Corps officer, P.O.W.) Olympic career was cut short by WWII. While serving in the US military, Louie’s plane goes down over the ocean where is stranded at sea for days on end. Once he’s rescued, it’s by the Japanese and he is sent to a POW camp. Read his harrowing true story. It’s a story of struggle, survival, redemption, and inspiration.
When Dimple Met Rishi (Sandhya Menon) – Funny and sweet, this novel is about two American-Indian teens whose parents are determined to arrange their marriage.
Flipped (Wendelin Van Draanen)– She flipped for him and he ran – but, that was in the second grade. What happens between these two love-birds years later?
Before I Let Go (Marieke Nijkamp) – In Lost Creek, Alaska, best friends, Cory and Kyra and inseparable until Corey moves away. Later, Corey finds out Kyra has died – but something isn’t adding up.
Dear Martin (Nic Stone) – “Justyce McAllister is a good kid, an honor student, and always there to help a friend—but none of that matters to the police officer who just put him in handcuffs. Despite leaving his rough neighborhood behind, he can’t escape the scorn of his former peers or the ridicule of his new classmates.” (Amazon Review)
Afterward (Jennifer Mathieu)– “When Caroline’s little brother is kidnapped, his subsequent rescue leads to the discovery of Ethan, a teenager who has been living with the kidnapper since he was a young child himself.” This book is filled with trauma and healing. (Amazon Review)
Lab Girl (Hope Jahren)– “Lab Girl is geobiologist Hope Jahren’s revelatory treatise on plant life — but it is also a celebration of the lifelong curiosity, humility, and passion that drive every scientist.” (Amazon Review)
Educated (Tara Westover)– An inspirational story of a young girl who was seventeen the first time she entered a school. Determined, she transformed her life through education and earning her Ph.D. from Cambridge University.
Team of Rivals (Doris Kearns Goodwin) – “Acclaimed historian Doris Kearns Goodwin illuminates Lincoln’s political genius in this highly original work, as the one-term congressman and prairie lawyer rises from obscurity to prevail over three gifted rivals of national reputation to become president.” (Amazon Review)
Plainsong (Kent Haruf) – “A heart strong story of family and romance, tribulation and tenacity, set on the High Plains east of Denver.” (Amazon review)
The Book of Unknown Americans (Cristina Henriquez)– “When fifteen-year-old Maribel Rivera sustains a terrible injury, the Rivera’s leave behind a comfortable life in Mexico and risk everything to come to the United States so that Maribel can have the care she needs.” (Amazon Review)
One Handed Catch (MJ Mutch)– Norm loses his left hand in an accident – will he ever be able to play baseball again?
Tuesdays with Morris (Mitch Albom) – Mitch Albom rediscovered his former professor, Morrie, in the last months of the older man’s life. “Knowing he was dying, Morrie visited with Mitch in his study every Tuesday, just as they used to back in college. Their rekindled relationship turned into one final “class”: lessons in how to live.” (Amazon review)
The 5 People You Meet in Heaven (Mitch Albom)– Eddie dies at age 83 and discovers that heaven is a place where 5 people you know – from strangers to loved ones – help you understand your life.
Black Like Me (John Howard Griffin) – “In the Deep South of the 1950s, a color line was etched in blood across Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, and Georgia. Journalist John Howard Griffin decided to cross that line. Using medication that darkened his skin to deep brown, he exchanged his privileged life as a Southern white man for the disenfranchised world of an unemployed black man.” (Amazon Review)
My Sister’s Keeper (Jodi Picoult)– A girl was “created” so that her blood/bone marrow could help her sister fight leukemia. She is suing for the rights to her own body.
Between the World and Me (Ta-Nehisi Coates)– This book is an attempt by Ta-Nehisi to answer questions about the hard parts of America’s history (slavery/race issues) in a letter to his teenage son.
The Road to Character (David Brooks) – “Looking to some of the world’s greatest thinkers and inspiring leaders, Brooks explores how, through internal struggle and a sense of their own limitations, they have built a strong inner character.” The book is about “deeper values that should inform our lives.” (Amazon Review)
Cutting for Stone (Abraham Verghese)– This book is about orphan brothers, coming of age, a love for medicine, and their country (Ethiopia) on the brink of a revelation.
When Breath Becomes Air (Paul Kalanithi) – “At the age of thirty-six, on the verge of completing a decade’s worth of training as a neurosurgeon, Paul Kalanithi was diagnosed with stage IV lung cancer. One day he was a doctor treating the dying, and the next he was a patient struggling to live. When Breath Becomes Air chronicles Kalanithi’s transformation from a naïve medical student “possessed,” as he wrote, “by the question of what, given that all organisms die, makes a virtuous and meaningful life” into a neurosurgeon at Stanford working in the brain, the most critical place for human identity, and finally into a patient and new father confronting his own mortality.” (Amazon Review)
Our Declaration: A Reading of the Declaration of Independence (Danielle S. Allen) – “Combining a personal account of teaching the Declaration with a vivid evocation of the colonial world between 1774 and 1777, Allen, a political philosopher renowned for her work on justice and citizenship reveals our nation’s founding text to be an animating force that not only changed the world more than two hundred years ago but also still can.” (Amazon Review)
Lorien Legacies Series (Pittacus Lore) – As Amazon review puts it, “Nine Loric children were sent to Earth to live in hiding until they grew up and developed their Legacies, powers that would help them fight back—and help them save us. Three of them are now dead. John is Number Four, and he knows he’s next….” This starts book 1 in the Lorien Legacies Series.
The Fablehaven Series (Brandon Mull and Brandon Dorman)– Fablehaven is a hidden refuge for mystical creatures to prevent their extinction. The caretaker of Fablehaven is siblings Kendra and Seth’s grandfather. Let the adventures of trolls, fairies, imps, and more begin as good fights evil.
The Round House (Louise Erdrich)– A compelling story of Native-American life wrapped in coming-of-age, mystery, family, and tenderness.
The Shadow and Bone Trilogy (Leigh Bardugo)– Alina Starkov discovers her dormant powers as she learns to live in the kingdom of Ravka. Can this frightened girl become a leader?
To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before (Jenny Han) – “Sixteen-year-old Lara Jean Song keeps her love letters in a hatbox her mother gave her. They aren’t love letters that anyone else wrote for her; these are ones she’s written. One for every boy she’s ever loved—five in all. When she writes, she pours out her heart and soul and says all the things she would never say in real life, because her letters are for her eyes only. Until the day her secret letters are mailed, and suddenly, Lara Jean’s love life goes from imaginary to out of control.” (Amazon Review)
All the Rage (Courtney Summers) – Bullied and abused, will Remy learn to stand up for herself and others? This is a hard book to read, it’ll tear you apart but also create a great empathy in you.
The Black Stallion (Walter Farley)– These are the adventures of a boy and a horse stranded on an island after their ship went down at sea. This classic story has been enthralling readers for years.
Complete Guide to Money (Dave Ramsey) – Learn how to budget and use money wisely to achieve your dreams. (Yes, this was recommended by an 11th grader!)
Where the Red Fern Grows (Wilson Rawls)– Billy is finally able to purchase his dream – two hound dogs. Together Billy with Old Dan and Little Ann roam the Ozarks and become the finest hunting team around…until challenges strike. Can these friends persevere? This classic tale is beloved by many.
Ghostlight (Sonia Gensler) – Avery and her brother love spending the summer at their grandma’s farm. This summer they meet a new kid, Julian. He hatches a plan to film a story at the Hilliard house, a vacant mansion Avery’s grandma forbids them to go in. But, they film anyway and discover strange and eerie things.
Please Ignore Vera Dietz (A. S. King)– Vera’s been secretly in love with her best friend, Charlie, forever. But then Charlie dies and Vera knows secrets…
House Arrest (K.A. Holt)– Timothy finds himself on house arrest after stealing a wallet. He is forced to keep a journal. His thoughts, frustrations, fears, and honesty are much to learn from.
The Seventh Most Important Thing (Shelley Pearsall) – In 1963, Arthur, 13, throws a brick at an elderly man’s head. This impulsive action carried out in a moment of rage earns him community service time. His place of service is with the same man he threw a brick at helping him with junk collection. Here Arthur learns so much.
The Selection Series (Kiera Cass) – Would you want a chance to be one of the 35 girls who will live in the palace and compete for the prince’s heart? What if you envisioned your life differently?
Wonder (R. J. Palacio) – A beautiful book about a boy with a facial disfiguration who tries to fit in at school.
Samurais Rising (Pamela S. Turner)– “Stirring narrative nonfiction recounts the rise of Minamoto Yoshitsune from seemingly doomed infant to immortal warrior-hero (and one of the most famous samurai in Japanese history).” (Amazon review)
People Like Us (Dana Mele)– Kay’s perfect high school life turns into the nightmare of a murder investigation.
Refugee (Alan Gratz) – Three stories of refugees including Joseph, a Jewish boy fleeing Germany in the 1930s, Isabel traveling from Cuba to America in 1994, and Mahmoud trekking towards Europe from Syria in 2015.
White Fang (Jack London) – This is the classic tale of White Fang, the wolfdog, and his journey from the wild to living among different harsh owners. This story takes place in the Yukon Territory, Canada, during the 1890s Klondike Gold Rush. Will White Fang ever find an owner who will show him true friendship and love?
Into the Wild (Jon Krakauer) – A bitter, affluent young man gives away all his money and heads to Alaska to try and live off the land.
Mary Rose (Geoffrey Girard) – Simon Blake found out his fiancé disappeared when she was a little girl and was rediscovered 33 days later with no memory as to what happened. Simon becomes obsessed with unraveling the mystery of this past event.
Code of Honor (Alan Graz) – A popular kid and high school football star, Kamran Smith can’t wait to join his brother, Darius, in the army. These brothers’ family is from Iran, but they’ve always felt accepted as Americans. Then something happens and Darius is accused of being a terrorist. Then Kamran too. Can they get through this challenge?
The Giver (Lois Lowery) – This 1994 Newbery Medal winner will make you think. This story is about 12-year-old Jonas and his changing perspective on the world. If you like this tale, read the novels that go with it: Gathering Blue, Messenger, and Son.
Ender’s Game – The Ender Quintet (Orson Scott Card) – These are fascinating books about kid soldiers trained by the government to defend their world against a hostile alien race. These epic tales bring up many philosophical and ethical questions.
I Will Always Write Back: How One Letter Changed Two Lives (Martin Ganda andCaitlin Alifirenka)– As a class assignment, Caitlyn (American) had to write to someone far away. Her letter ended up in the hands of Martin, from Zimbabwe. These pen pals wrote for 6 years, becoming best friends and learning so much about each other and themselves. As Amazon review says: ”Their story will inspire you to look beyond your own life and wonder about the world at large and your place in it.”
Projeckt1065 (Alan Gratz) – Michael O’Shaunessey, from Ireland, lives in Nazi, Germany. Even though he despises all Hitler stands for, he still joins the Hitler Youth because Michael and his parents are spies.
The Tattooist of Auschwitz (Heather Morris)– “This beautiful, illuminating tale of hope and courage is based on interviews that were conducted with Holocaust survivor and Auschwitz-Birkenau tattooist Ludwig (Lale) Sokolov — an unforgettable love story in the midst of atrocity.” (Amazon review)
Holes (Louis Sachar)– Boys in a detention center, Camp Green Lake, are forced to build holes five feet deep and wide. This is supposed to be character building. But, Stanley, the main character sent unjustly to this horrible camp discovers the warden is trying to find something by having these holes dug. What is it? What is going on?
I am the Messenger (Marcus Zusak)– “Ed Kennedy is an underage cabdriver without much of a future. He’s pathetic at playing cards, hopelessly in love with his best friend, Audrey, and utterly devoted to his coffee-drinking dog, the Doorman. His life is one of peaceful routine and incompetence until he inadvertently stops a bank robbery.” That’s when he becomes The Messenger…
Hana’s Suitcase (Karen Levine)– Based on a true story, Fumiko Ishioka is the curator of a newly set up Holocaust educational center in Toyko. She leads a group of children dedicated to helping educate Japan about the Holocaust. The center receives a small brown suitcase from a museum at Auschwitz. Painted on the suitcase in large white letters is, “Hana Brady, May 16, 1931, Orphan.” The children and Fumiko wonder who Hana Brady is. They set off to find the answers. This story is hard and redeeming and connects unlikely people.
Mark of the Thief Series (Jennifer A. Nielsen) – Nic, a slave in the Roman mines, finds a cavern with Julius Caesar’s lost treasure including an ancient bulla filled with magic. Now, he has power. Can he use it to become free? Can he use it to make a better Rome?
Maniac Magee (Jerry Spinelli)– Orphaned and living with his unkind aunt and uncle, Jeffrey Magee decides to run. When he does, Jeffrey’s kindness and wits help him overcome his obstacles as he learns about himself and makes a positive impact on others.
Terror at Bottle Creek (Watt Key) – Cort, age 13, has learned much from his expert hunting and swamp lore father. They live in lower Alabama where deadly hurricanes sometimes strike. Cort is put to the test when exactly that happens.
Runs with Courage (Joan M. Wolf) – In 1880, the Dakota Territory is changing. Four Winds, a ten-year-old Lakota girl is taken away from her family and sent to a boarding school. (Without her family who’d been moved to a reservation.) Can Lakota stay true to herself in her new environment?
A Piece of Cake (Cupcake Brown)– A heart-wrenching, brutally honest story of a girl trying to survive in the foster care system. This book is not for the faint of heart.
Arca Book Series (Karen Diem)– “Adrenaline junkie and almost-respectable accountant Zita Garcia wouldn’t know a superhero from some dude in his pajamas. As a result, the second-to-last thing she expected was to wake from a spontaneous coma, quarantined, and with superpowers she has to hide from everyone, including her family. Now Zita must master her new abilities while dodging kidnappers, evading government inquiries, and finding her missing brother.” (Amazon Review)
Elijah of Buxton (Christopher Paul Curtis) – This Newberry Honor and Coretta Scott King Award Winner novel is about Elijah, the first child to be born free in Buxton, Canada. This small town is close to the American border and home to runaway slaves. A thief steals money from his friend who has been saving the cash to free his family. Elijah makes it his purpose to find this thief and the adventure begins.
Harry Potter Series (J.K. Rowling) – Three Hogwarts School of Wizard & Witchcraft misfits come together to battle the evil wizard Lord Voldemort.
The Lord of the Rings Series (J.R.R. Tolkien) – What an adventure this series is. The ring threatens Middle Earth with pending doom. Only these companions can unravel the mysteries, fight the opposition and conquer evil.
The Hobbit (J.R.R. Tolkien)– If you like the Lord of the Rings, read about how the adventure of the Companions of Ring began in this epic book.
The Book Thief (Markus Zusak)– “Liesel Meminger is a foster girl living outside of Munich, who scratches out a meager existence for herself by stealing when she encounters something she can’t resist–books. With the help of her accordion-playing foster father, she learns to read and shares her stolen books with her neighbors during bombing raids as well as with the Jewish man hidden in her basement.” (Amazon Review)
Old Yeller (Fred Gipson)– The classic story of Travis, a kid trusted by his dad to take care of their wilderness Texas frontier along with his faithful dog, “Old Yeller.”
The One and Only Ivan (Katherine Applegate)– This Newbery Medal Winner and New York Times bestseller tells the story of an unlikely friendship. Based on a true story, Ivan, a gorilla has lived 27 years behind the walls of a zoo. He is used to people watching him and never thinks of his life prior to captivity. Then the baby elephant, Ruby is captured from the wild and placed in the same zoo…
Anne of Green Gables (Lucy Maud Montgomery)– A delightful red-headed orphaned girl transforms the lives of Matthew and Marilla Cuthbert, her appointed guardians. You will see why generations have fallen in love with the chatty and delightful Anne.
Little Women (Louisa May Alcott)– This beloved classic is about four March sisters growing up together. Their mother is supporting the family as their father is away at war.
When Calls the Heart (Jeanette Oke) – A wealthy young Canadian lady decides to move out west to teach school. Coal Valley is suffering from a coal mine accident left much of the town widowed and sonless. Read a sweet story of perseverance, growth, love, and family.
The Witch of Blackbird Pond (Elizabeth George Speare) – In this 1959 Newbery Medal winner, the story of Kit Tyler living during the colonial times (1687) in Connecticut unfolds. Kit finds a much-needed friend in Hannah Tupper, who the colonist believe is a witch.
Number the Stars (Lois Lowry) – Annemarie Johansen is a part of the Danish movement to smuggle the entire Jewish population (nearly 7,000) to Sweden during WWII.
The Hiding Place (Corrie Ten Boom) – This is the story of a family of Dutch watchmakers who hide Jews in their home during WWII. Caught and sent to concentration camps, Corrie lives to tell her and her family’s story of courage and faith.
Maus Graphic Novels (Art Spiegelman)– This Pulitzer Prize-winning graphic novel is set during WWII with the mice representing the Jews and the cats, the Nazis. The author retells his father’s stories of the Holocaust.
The Glass Castle (Jeannette Walls) – Born into a dysfunctional family with an intelligent yet alcoholic father and free-spirited mother who runs from responsibility, the kids learn to take care of themselves and thrive.
Traveler’s Gift (David Ponder) – “Join David Ponder in The Traveler’s Summit on his incredible journey to discover the Seven Decisions for Success that can turn any life around, no matter how hopeless a situation may seem.” (Amazon Review)
Ready Player One (Ernest Cline) – “In the year 2045, reality is an ugly place. The only time teenage Wade Watts really feels alive is when he’s jacked into the virtual utopia known as the OASIS. Wade’s devoted his life to studying the puzzles hidden within this world’s digital confines–puzzles that are based on their creator’s obsession with the pop culture of decades past and that promise massive power and fortune to whoever can unlock them.” (Amazon Review)
Looking for Alaska (John Green) – “Miles Halter is fascinated by famous last words—and tired of his safe life at home. He leaves for Culver Creek boarding school to seek what the dying poet François Rabelais called “The Great Perhaps.” Much awaits Miles at Culver Creek, including clever, beguiling, and self-destructive Alaska Young, who will pull Miles into her labyrinth and catapult him into the Great Perhaps.”
Winds of War (Herman Wouk)– “Wouk’s spellbinding narrative captures the tide of global events, as well as all the drama, romance, heroism, and tragedy of World War II, as it immerses us in the lives of a single American family drawn into the very center of the war’s maelstrom.” (Amazon Review)
Between Shades of Gray (Ruta Sepetys)– “Fifteen-year-old Lina is a Lithuanian girl living an ordinary life — until Soviet officers invade her home and tear her family apart. Separated from her father and forced onto a crowded train, Lina, her mother, and her young brother make their way to a Siberian work camp, where they are forced to fight for their lives.”
The Art of Racing in the Rain (Garth Stein) – “A heart-wrenching but deeply funny and ultimately uplifting story of family, love, loyalty, and hope–a captivating look at the wonders and absurdities of human life . . . as only a dog could tell it.” (Amazon Review)
Salt to the Sea (Ruta Sepetys)– “Winter 1945. WWII. Four refugees. Four stories. Each one born of a different homeland; each one hunted, and haunted, by tragedy, lies, war. As thousands desperately flock to the coast in the midst of a Soviet advance, four paths converge, vying for passage aboard the Wilhelm Gustloff, a ship that promises safety and freedom. But not all promises can be kept. “ (Amazon Review)
Septimus Heap Book Series (Angie Sage)– These New York Times bestselling series are thrilling tales laced with magic and wizards and mysterious experiences.
Heidi (Johanna Spyri) – This classic is the story of an orphan, Heidi, who went to live with her grandfather in the Swiss Alps. Heidi captures the heart of her grumpy grandfather, the neighbors, and mountain town residents. That’s only the start of this delightful, uplifting story.
Mount Vernon Love Story: A Novel of George and Martha Washington (Mary Higgins Clark)– “Dispelling the widespread belief that although George Washington married Martha Dandridge Custis, he reserved his true love for Sally Carey Fairfax, his best friend’s wife, Mary Higgins Clark describes the Washington marriage as one full of tenderness and passion, as a bond between two people who shared their lives — even the bitter hardship of a winter in Valley Forge — in every way. In this author’s skilled hands, the history, the love, and the man come fully and dramatically alive.” (Amazon Review)
Memoirs: People are fascinating and reading their memoirs is even more so. Below are a few good ones. But, if you are a fan of someone, google them and see if they wrote a book. You’ll learn so much!
Twilight Saga (Stephenie Meyer) – “Isabella Swan’s move to Forks, a small, perpetually rainy town in Washington, could have been the most boring move she ever made. But once she meets the mysterious and alluring Edward Cullen, Isabella’s life takes a thrilling and terrifying turn. Up until now, Edward has managed to keep his vampire identity a secret in the small community he lives in, but now nobody is safe, especially Isabella, the person Edward holds most dear.” (Amazon Review)
Pride and Prejudice (Jane Austen)– “Jane Austen is one of the founders of classic novels for women. Her most famous novel Pride and Prejudice is rightfully considered to be the masterpiece of the world of literature. Walter Scott, Somerset Maugham, Virginia Woolf, and Richard Aldington admired the talented “First Lady” of the English literature. Wittily and directly described actions of the Pride and Prejudice happens in provincial England at the end of the eighteenth century. For about two hundred years readers have been mesmerized by the love story of Mr. Darcy and Miss Elizabeth who managed to correct the mistake of pride and prejudice.” (Amazon Review)
124. Without a Trace (Rock Harbor Series, Colleen Coble) – This is the first book in the mystery series. “It’s been months since the crash. K-9 search-and-rescue worker Bree Nicholls knows the chances of finding her husband and son in the vast wilderness of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula grow more remote by the day. But her heart and her faithful dog, Samson, demand she keep searching.” (Amazon Review)
Get a FREE printable of these book recommendations for high schoolers.
For more ideas read the full “Entertaining Tweens and Teens” series.
The other day, I saw of picture of when my kids were little (like when I wrote this post), and I thought I so deeply want to go back to this season of life. I miss it.
But just as quickly as that thought came, another thought followed Someday, I will see pictures of my current parenting phase (raising tweens and teens) and wish to come back to today.
So, I want to do my best to enjoy this season of life. These ideas on how to connect with and entertain tweens and teens can help…
Join this community of moms raising tweens and teens.
You just dropped one kid off at practice, picked up another, and are trying to decide what to make for dinner. Your days are filled with work, parenting, and waiting for password reset emails.
You are parenting tweens and teens.
It’s an amazing life-phase, but also challenging in unique ways. In it all, you’d love a little encouragement to help you laugh, grow in faith, see parenting hacks, get ideas to connect with your kids, feel empowered in your personal growth, and celebrate the awesome momma you are.
I got you, friend. Sign up for Empowered Moms and Kids monthly emails and get inspiration, resources, and stories in your inbox geared for someone exactly in your life-chapter. It’s totally free and you can unsubscribe at any time.
Plus, you’ll get instant access to all the great resources in the freebie library.Join our community here or below.
Cheryl is a mom of 3 boys, wife, speaker, high school teacher, and author of Empowered Moms & Kids. She has a Master’s degree in Educational Leadership and is passionate about learning and teaching. On www.empoweredmomsandkids.com you’ll find inspiration and encouragement for moms raising tweens and/or teens. Read more in the “about” section of this page.
(Inside: Do you want to help your kid thrive in school? These four questions will help your child find success and enjoy his or her educational journey.)
I scanned the array of graduation photos spread out in front of me. Geez, it’s been years since I’ve taught these amazing students in high school.
I picked up a picture of a former high school senior remembering how – even though life always seemed to throw him curveballs that he didn’t always handle the best – he was determined to get into college and be the first in his family to graduate from higher education.
Then, there was the sweet girl, she beamed in her dress with brunette curls outlining her face. That girl always had drama, so much typical high school-girl drama…I wondered if she’d reached her dream of starting a daycare.
I scanned the photo of the heavy-set, no-nonsense face of the athlete – that kid had goals. College team. Maybe, the Olympics. His focus was always on doing what needed to be done to be the best at his sport, including staying after school and studying with me when he struggled.
Each kid in the dozens of pictures was different…from race to social-economic backgrounds to family dynamics to interests and personality. But, all of them ended their high school career with good memories, hope for the future, and a drive to move forward.
What commonality did these diverse scholars share that helped them thrive?
I wanted to organize my thoughts around this not as a teacher, but as a parent.
Because I want my kids – my three very different sons – to be beaming hope and determination in their high school graduation pictures. What can I do now in their elementary/middle school years to get them there?
So, I begin to untangle my memories, evaluate each student, and connect the dots of what qualities strung these diverse thriving individuals together. In my reflection, I found four qualities/actions these students shared.
Connection – each graduating senior had a friend who had their back, classes they liked to attend, school activities they enjoyed and/or school staff who made them feel important.
Organizational skills – None were perfect, but they all figured out an organizational system that worked.
Progressive maturity – They grew in maturity over the years.
Asked for help – They learned to reach out when they needed help.
As parents, we can grow these qualities in our kids.
Building on the foundation of love and trust we have with our kids, we can ask these questions at the beginning and throughout the school year to find out where our kids are and how we can support them.
4 Questions Parents Need to Ask to Help Their Kid Thrive in School
**This blog post contains affiliate links.**
1. Who is the school friend you prefer to hang out with the most?
Or, who did you sit by at lunch? Who do you like in your class(es)? Is there a teacher you connect with? Friends and connections can play a huge role in students liking school and feeling self-motivated to do well.
Dr. Paul Schwartz says:“Friendships contribute significantly to the development of social skills, such as being sensitive to another’s viewpoints, learning the rules of conversation, and age-appropriate behaviors,” He continues: “More than half the children referred for emotional behavioral problems have no friends or find difficulty interacting with peers.”
Ideas to help your kid thrive in school through friendship:
It’s absolutely normal for friendships to sometimes struggle. Also, it’s absolutely normal for kids to go from feeling lonely to being connected. Here are some ways to help your students find their people –
Join a school activity – I strongly believe all students need to find one school activity to join. This can be an absolute game-changer.
Be a friend – your child could bless someone else by looking for people who need a friend and reaching out. There are lots of students who need a friend.
Invite someone over…or to a movie, or to online-game.
Read Growing Friendshipsas a family – There are great ideas to help kids understand the ins and outs of friendships.
Let your student decide how to best use their strengths and personality to accomplish their organizational goals. Everyone has to learn to be organized to be successful in life, and school is a great place to try and figure it out. A conversation around this can help set your student up for success.
Ideas to Help Your Kid Thrive in School through organization:
Look through Schoology or whatever organizational program your student’s school uses and figure out how to best use it.
Create a routine at home for homework completion.
Decide how you will check in with your student regarding school performance. My middle school son and I had a rough, rough period where I was constantly nagging him, and we both hated it. We decided to communicate through a checklist instead. He’d mark when he’s done, I’d look once at the end of the evening. Total game-changer. Read more here.
Buy a fun planner.
Get everything ready the night before school, backpack, lunches…etc.
3. How do you feel? (Happy? Content? Frustrated? Discouraged?)
Reflection and conversation can help our students mature. What at school didn’t work out and how did it make them feel? How can they improve the next time? What relationships are hard? What do they need to let go of and what do they need to try and change?
Our kids need to feel heard. The conversation doesn’t have to go perfectly, but simply starting it sends huge you-are-heard messages.
Ideas to Help Your Kid Thrive in School Through Conversation:
Make dinner time a sacred place – eat together most nights. (Or if your schedule doesn’t allow, what about breakfast? Or snacks? Or dessert?)
Make the car ride to activities a place to talk. (Your little humans are trapped! With. You. Take advantage of the time to talk.)
Make chores a “special time” with one kid. Take a child with you to the grocery store, or to walk the dog…create one-on-one time to talk.
Tuck-ins – always do tuck-ins. It’s amazing how faded lights will open up words.
Ask your kid what he/she would like to do to connect with you. (Don’t buy into the apathy. My two decades plus teaching high school has taught me, kids want their parents to pay attention to them. Even if they don’t act like it. Keep after it. It means more to them than you know.)
4. How can I help you? (What resources do you need? Or who can you ask for help?)
In our individualized culture, we have to teach our kids to hear that inner voice that cries out for help.
The schools are staffed with resources, some professionals you might not even know about. (At the public high school I teach at we have an on-site social worker helping families find housing, a school psychologist meeting regularly with students, and teachers/ administration always willing to hand out kindness and guidance.)
Let’s encourage our kids to reach for the community.
Then, once parents have discussed these four questions with our kids, we can step back and give our kids space.
We let them grow, let them learn, and let them wrestle with things. Our job isn’t to shield them from all pain and responsibility. Instead, it’s to guide them to grow through the bumps in their journeys.
Then when our kids reach the end of their senior year, we frame that senior picture, and we smile too…because we helped them get there. Our intentional questions helped us raise happy, hopeful, ready-to-move-forward human beings.
Read more articles on school…
I’ve been a high school teacher for over two decades, and I have a passion for helping kids do well in school. I fully believe every kid is capable and wants to thrive in school – you just can convince me otherwise. Here are a few more of my thoughts…
You just dropped one kid off at practice, picked up another, and are trying to decide what to make for dinner. Your days are filled with work, parenting, and waiting for password reset emails.
You are parenting tweens and teens.
It’s an amazing life phase, but also challenging in unique ways. In it all, you’d love a little encouragement to help you laugh, grow in faith, see parenting hacks, get ideas to connect with your kid, and celebrate the awesome momma you are.
I got you, friend. Sign up for Empowered Moms and Kids monthly emails and get encouragement in your inbox geared for someone exactly in your life chapter. It’s totally free and you can unsubscribe at any time.
Plus, you’ll get instant access to all the great resources in the freebie library.Join our community here or below.
Cheryl is a mom of 3 boys, wife, speaker, high school teacher, and author of Empowered Moms & Kids. She has a Master’s degree in Educational Leadership and is passionate about learning and teaching. On www.empoweredmomsandkids.com you’ll find inspiration and encouragement for moms raising tweens and/or teens. Read more in the “about” section of this page.
(Inside: 146+ best chapter books your tweens will love that will also help them develop positive character qualities. For late-elementary/middle school-age kids.)
“My mom always tells me that people in third world countries are starving, and I should appreciate what I have,” my 12-year-old son wrote. “But I just didn’t get it. We live in a nice house with a big backyard and a refrigerator full of food. It wasn’t until I read the Hunger Games that I could really feel what it’s like to not have food. Now I understand what my mom was saying. It makes me feel sad for the hungry. “
I held my son’s school writing assignment in my hands like I’d discovered the end of the rainbow. That book that I’d debated if he was old enough to read…transformed my son’s thinking. Lovely, lovely, lovely.
Moms, we can preach like seasoned professionals, but until our kids get a chance to stand in someone else’s shoes, see life from the character’s perspective, and feel his/her pain and joy, they don’t really understand. Stories move us emotionally and intellectually. They give us unique experiences, shape our character, and transform us into better people.
I’m trying to raise my children to be men of character and seeing this small success drove me to create a list of best books for tweens. This list is intended for late elementary school age through middle school age. Each book is categorized in character qualities we are trying to grow in our kids. The list also has a wide variety of reading levels and topics; hopefully, every kid can find something they like. Almost every book has been recommended to me by a teacher, parent, or kid, but still, the entire list might not be right for every kid so click on the title and read more about the book if you’re questioning.
If you’re thinking, that’s great but I’m busy…please don’t make me read this whole blog post, click on the button below I’ll email you a condensed book list to print for your kids. (Actually, I’ll email you two book lists – one for tweens and one for teens)
146+ Best Books for Tweens (That also builds positive character qualities.)
**This blog post contains affiliate links which means if you use my Amazon affiliate link, I get a small commission at not extra cost to you.**
Creative Thinking
Fantasy and other fiction books that will spark your imagination and help you think creatively and innovatively.
1. The Unwanted Series (Lisa McMann) – Full of suspense and adventure, this series has been described by Kirkus Review as “The Hunger Games meets Harry Potter.” (New York Times and USA TODAY bestseller)
2. The Twenty-One Balloons (William Pene du Bois) – Professor William Waterman Sherman failed attempt to fly him across the Pacific Ocean landed him on the wondrous land of Krakatoa. Let the adventures begin. (1948 Newbery Medal winner.)
3. The Tale of Despereaux (Kate DiCamillo) – This Newbery Medal-winning tale is about the Despereaux Tilling (a mouse), Roscuro (a rat), and Miggery Sow (a slow-witted serving girl). Their adventure includes a dark dungeon, a beautiful castle, and much more.
6. The Ralph S. Mouse Collection (Beverly Cleary) – Ralph, a mouse, loves to ride his favorite toy motorcycle straight into adventures. You’ll enjoy these delightful stories. (Newbery award-winning author)
8. The Cricket in Times Square (Garth Williams) – This 1961 Newbery Honor Book is about Tucker, the mouse, and his friend Harry Cat. This New York City street-smart duo live in the Times Square subway station. Chester Cricket, hungry for liverwurst, jumped from his Connecticut meadow into a traveler’s picnic basket and ended up in New York. Tucker, Harry, and Chester become fast friends as the two NYC natives teach Chester the ropes. But, it’s Mario, a boy, who discovers Chester’s hidden talent…
9. The Fablehaven Series (Brandon Mull and Brandon Dorman) – Fablehaven is a hidden refuge for mystical creatures to prevent their extinction. The caretaker of Fablehaven is siblings Kendra and Seth’s grandfather. Let the adventures of trolls, fairies, imps, and more begin as good fights evil.
11. Lorien Legacies Series (Pittacus Lore) – As Amazon review puts it, “Nine Loric children were sent to Earth to live in hiding until they grew up and developed their Legacies, powers that would help them fight back—and help them save us. Three of them are now dead. John is Number Four, and he knows he’s next….” This starts book 1 in the Lorien Legacies Series. (#1 New York Times bestseller)
12. The Shadow and Bone Trilogy (Leigh Bardugo) – Alina Starkov discovers her dormant powers as she learns to live in the kingdom of Ravka. Can this frightened girl become a leader? (New York Times bestseller)
13. The Land of Stories Series (Chris Colfer) – Twins, Alex and Connor, mysteriously find themselves in a wondrous, magical land interacting with the fairy tale characters they’d grown up reading about. (#1 New York Times bestseller)
14. Gregor the Underland Chronicles (Suzanne Collins) – Gregor and his little sister discover the dark Underland beneath their home of New York City. Amazon continues to describe this thrilling book saying: “There, a conflict is brewing between the humans and the giant creatures that live below. Gregor must find his place in the frightening prophecies he encounters, the strength to protect his family, and the courage to stand up against an army of giant rats.”
16. Septimus Heap Book Series (Angie Sage) – These New York Times bestselling series are thrilling tales laced with magic and wizards and mysterious experiences.
17. Keys to the Kingdom Series (Garth Nix) – Amazon says,”This series is full of fantasy novels. This series provides an original twist on traditional fiction in that the reader takes control of the stories.”
Experience how these characters persevere through hardships. Feel empowered to tap into your inner strength and endurance as well.
19. The Prince Warriors Series (Priscilla Shirer) – Two brothers and their friends enter the mysterious land of Ahoratos. They grow in wisdom, strength, and skill as they battle a very real enemy.
20. The Lightning Thief Series (Rick Riordan) – Percy Jackson shows great perseverance as he is tested through adventures with Greek gods and monsters.
21. The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind (William Kamkwamba and Bryan Mealer) – Because William Kamkwamba’s family was devastated by the famine in Malawi, Africa, he couldn’t pay his school fees and was forced to drop out. Determined to continue his education, William began reading science books from the village library. He learned how to make a windmill out of bicycle parts and scrap metal. Soon he brought electricity that could pump water to his family’s farm.
22. The Woods Runner (Gary Paulsen) – Samuel, age 13, enjoys his life with his parents on the frontier of British America. Until the revolutionary war begins and Samuel’s parents are taken captive by the Iroquois and British soldiers. Now, he must find his parents.
23. The Red Pencil (Andrea Davis Pinkney) – A Somalian girl caught in a war-torn country starts the long journey to a refugee camp. Along the way, she finds a red pencil that sparks hope.
24. The Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry (Mildred D. Taylor) – The Depression has hit Mississippi hard. Despite racism and social injustice, the Logan family forges on to take the high road with integrity. Cassie Logan learns why it’s so important to her family to own their own land and much more. (Newbery Medal winner)
25.The Trumpet of the Swan (E. B White) – The trumpeter swan, Louis, has a problem – he can’t let out the beautiful, joyful trumpet sound like the rest of the swans. His love, Serena, won’t pay any attention to him. How is Louis going to win her heart? So, Louis’ father nabs him a brass trumpet…will it work? Will Serena now notice Louis?
26. The Black Stallion (Walter Farley) – These are the adventures of a boy and a horse stranded on an island after their ship went down at sea. This classic story has been enthralling readers for years.
27. Where the Red Fern Grows (Wilson Rawls) – Billy is finally able to purchase his dream – two hound dogs. Together Billy with Old Dan and Little Ann roam the Ozarks and become the finest hunting team around…until challenges strike. Can these friends persevere? This classic tale is beloved by many.
28. Etiquette and Espionage (Finishing School) (Gail Carriger) – Sophronia, a spunky 14-year-old, starts finishing school in England (1821). Except the students learn more than proper dance, trending fashions, and expected etiquette….they learn espionage.
29. Keeper of the Lost Cities Series (Shannon Messenger) – Twelve-year-old Sophie is a telepath, someone who can read minds. She’s a misfit among her peers until she meets Fitz, also a telepath. Sophie’s adventures begin as she discovers who she really is. And why she was hidden among humans. (New York Times and USA TODAY bestseller)
30. Ghostlight (Sonia Gensler) – Avery and her brother love spending the summer at their grandma’s farm. This summer they meet a new kid, Julian. He hatches a plan to film a story at the Hilliard house, a vacant mansion Avery’s grandma forbids them to go in. But, they film anyway and discover strange and eerie things.
31. Goosebumps Series (R.L. Stine) – Beloved books about wonderful characters with wild happening, challenging situations, and scary adventures.
32. Nerds Series (Michael Buckley) – A group of unpopular 5th graders secretly run the National Espionage, Rescue, and Defense Society.
34. Don’t Know Much About Series (Kenneth C. Davis) – This series of books talks about topics from American history, to geography, and more. These interesting books will capture your attention as you learn about the world around you.
35. Ordinary People Change the World (Brad Meltzer) – This series is about Abraham Lincoln, Amelia Earhart, Rosa Parks, Albert Einstein and more people who made an impact. Read these interesting true stories and feel empowered to use your gifts and talents to better the world we live in.
36. Hello Stars (Faith Girlz / Lena in the Spotlight Series) – This book is one in a series. The story starts here with Lena, an ordinary girl who goes to an audition and becomes a real-life actress. Lena faces the challenges of everyday life, acting, and tough choices with perseverance, wisdom, and hope.
37. House Arrest (K.A. Holt) – Timothy finds himself on house arrest after stealing a wallet. He is forced to keep a journal. His thoughts, frustrations, fears, and honesty are much to learn from.
38. The Seventh Most Important Thing (Shelley Pearsall) – In 1963, Arthur, 13, throws a brick at an elderly man’s head. This impulsive action carried out in a moment of rage earns him community service time. His place of service is with the same man he threw a brick at helping him with junk collection. Here Arthur learns so much.
39. The Selection Series (Kiera Cass) – Would you want a chance to be one of the 35 girls who will live in the palace and compete for the prince’s heart? What if you envisioned your life differently? (#1 New York Times bestseller)
41. Who Was Series (Various Authors and Who HQ) – Intriguing books about real people including Jane Goodall, Leonardo da Vinci, Albert Einstein and many more individuals.
43. The Wish Fairy Series (Lisa Ann Scott) – Brooke rescues a fairy and is granted seven wishes. What will she wish for? Will she be careful with her choices?
46. Wonder (R. J. Palacio) – A beautiful book about a boy with a facial disfiguration who tries to fit in at school. (#1 New York Times bestseller)
47. Jacob Have I Loved (Katherine Paterson)– Set in WWII on an Island off of Chesapeake Bay, this is the story of twin girls…one who shines and the other who doesn’t. This Newbery-winning classic is about sibling rivalry.
48. In the Year of the Boar and Jackie Robinson (Bette Bao Lord) – In the 1940’s, Shirley Temple Wong moves from China to Brooklyn, New York. The language barrier proves hard for Shirley to make friends. But then, she discovers baseball and Jackie Robinson (superstar of the Brooklyn Dodgers) and life begins to look up.
49. The Sign of the Beaver (Elizabeth George Speare) – Matt (13 years old) is left alone by his dad to guard their new wilderness cabin. Except Matt doesn’t know how to hunt, protect himself or survive…that is until he meets, Attean. This tale unfolds the story of a relationship between settlers and Native American during the 1700s. (Newbery Honor-winning story)
50. Refugee (Alan Gratz) – Three stories of refugees including Joseph, a Jewish boy fleeing Germany in the 1930s, Isabel traveling from Cuba to America in 1994, and Mahmoud trekking towards Europe from Syria in 2015.
51. White Fang (Jack London) – This is the classic tale of White Fang, the wolfdog, and his journey from the wild to living among different harsh owners. This story takes place in the Yukon Territory, Canada, during the 1890s Klondike Gold Rush. Will White Fang ever find an owner who will show him true friendship and love?
52. Sticks and Stones (Abby Cooper) – Elyse starts middle school at age 12. Except, she is different – she has a rare genetic disorder where the words said about her show up on her skin. A note finds its way into Elyse’s hands saying: “I know who you are, and I know what you’re dealing with. I want to help.” Can Elyse find who sent this to message to her? In her quest, she learns valuable lessons that empower her to become her best self.
53. Code of Honor (Alan Graz) – A popular kid and high school football star, Kamran Smith can’t wait to join his brother, Darius, in the army. These brothers’ family is from Iran, but they’ve always felt accepted as Americans. Then something happens and Darius is accused of being a terrorist. Then Kamran too. Can they get through this challenge?
54. The BFG (Roald Dahl) – Two unlikely friends, Sophie and the Big Friendly Giant team together to protect children in England.
Critical-Thinking Skills
Learn from characters who display critical thinking skills like the below from Thinker Academy:
Suspending judgment to check the validity of a proposition or action
Taking into consideration multiple perspectives
Examining the implications and consequences of a belief or action
Using reason and evidence to resolve disagreements
Re-evaluating a point of view in light of new information
55. The Giver (Lois Lowery) – This 1994 Newbery Medal winner will make you think. This story is about 12-year-old Jonas and his changing perspective on the world. If you like this tale, read the novels that go with it: Gathering Blue, Messenger, and Son.
56. Matilda Series (Roald Dahl) – This is the story of a delightful girl who discovers she has a unique power to stand up for herself against her kid-hating teacher and other life challenges.
57. Ender’s Game – The Ender Quintet (Orson Scott Card) – These are fascinating books about kid soldiers trained by the government to defend their world against a hostile alien race. These epic tales bring up many philosophical and ethical questions. (Winner of the Hugo and Nebula Awards)
58. I Will Always Write Back: How One Letter Changed Two Lives (Martin Ganda and Caitlin Alifirenka) – As a class assignment, Caitlyn (American) had to write to someone far away. Her letter ended up in the hands of Martin, from Zimbabwe. These pen pals wrote for 6 years, becoming best friends and learning so much about each other and themselves. As Amazon review says:”Their story will inspire you to look beyond your own life and wonder about the world at large and your place in it.” (New York Times bestseller)
59. The Inventions of Hugo Cabret (Brian Selznick) – What happens when Hugo’s, an orphan/clock-keeper/thief, life intertwines with a bookish girl and a bitter old man who runs a toy booth? Mystery, adventure, and this great book.
60. Projeckt1065 (Alan Gratz) – Michael O’Shaunessey, from Ireland, lives in Nazi, Germany. Even though he despises all Hitler stands for, he still joins the Hitler Youth because…Michael and his parents are spies.
61. The Shadow Children Series ( Margaret Peterson Haddix) – The world only allows parents to have two children. The shadow children – all an illegal third child – must hide or face death. This series is about the tales of the third born.
63. Holes (Louis Sachar) – Boys in a detention center, Camp Green Lake, are forced to build holes five feet deep and wide. This is supposed to be character building. But, Stanley, the main character sent unjustly to this horrible camp discovers the warden is trying to find something by having these holes dug. What is it? What is going on? (Newbery Medal, National Book Award, #1 New York Times bestseller)
64. Hana’s Suitcase (Karen Levine) – Based on a true story, Fumiko Ishioka is the curator of a newly set up Holocaust educational center in Toyko. She leads a group of children dedicated to helping educate Japan about the Holocaust. The center receives a small brown suitcase from of a museum at Auschwitz. Painted on the suitcase in large white letters is, “Hana Brady, May 16, 1931, Orphan.” The children and Fumiko wonder who Hana Brady is. They set off to find the answers. This story is hard and redeeming and connects unlikely people.
65. Restart (Gordon Korman) – Chase fell off the roof and gets amnesia. He doesn’t remember who he is. As Chase goes back to middle school, he learns about himself through the reactions of his classmates. The problem is, he doesn’t like what he’s learning about himself…
Strength
Learn how these strong characters (both fiction and nonfiction) overcome and thrive in life’s challenges.
70. Mark of the Thief Series (Jennifer A. Nielsen) – Nic, a slave in the Roman mines, finds a cavern with Julius Caesar’s lost treasure including an ancient bulla filled with magic. Now, he has power. Can he use it to become free? Can he use it to make a better Rome?
72. Maniac Magee (Jerry Spinelli) – Orphaned and living with his unkind aunt and uncle, Jeffrey Magee decides to run. When he does, Jeffrey’s kindness and wits help him overcome his obstacles as he learns about himself and makes a positive impact on others. (Newbery Award Winner)
74. Terror at Bottle Creek (Watt Key) – Cort, age 13, has learned much from his expert hunting and swamp lore father. They live in lower Alabama where deadly hurricanes sometimes strike. Cort is put to the test when exactly that happens.
75. Runs with Courage (Joan M. Wolf) – In 1880, the Dakota Territory is changing. Four Winds, a ten-year-old Lakota girl is taken away from her family and sent to a boarding school. (Without her family who’d been moved to a reservation.) Can Lakota stay true to herself in her new environment?
77. Wolves of the Beyond Series (Kathryn Lasky) – This spinoff of the Guardians of Ga’hoole is about a baby wolf, born with a twisted paw, deemed unworthy to be a part of the pack. The anguished mom knows he will be taken from her and abandoned. As Amazon says, “This is his story – a story of survival, of courage, and of love triumphant. This is Faolan’s story, the wolf pup who rose up to change forever the Wolves of the Beyond.”
Develop Humor
Get big laughs out of these stories. Feel how smiles and humor make life better.
79. Diary of a Wimpy Kid Series (Jeff Kinney) – Read about all the crazy things that happen to and around Greg in middle school. This wildly popular series will make you laugh out loud.
80. Big Nate (Lincoln Peirce) – “Middle school is a breeding ground for mischief and dreaming big for Big Nate and his pals!” (Amazon review)
81. Ella Minnow Pea (Mark Dunn) – Ella was happily living South Carolina’s island, Nollop, until the community’s decision makers started banning the use of certain letters in the alphabet. In this hilarious tale, Ella fights for freedom of expression, among other things. Word lovers will enjoy this story.
83. Roald Dahl Series (Roald Dahl) – Fun and silly books about lovable characters including 1. The Witches, 2. The Giraffe and the Pelly and Me, 3. Matilda, 4. The BFG, 5. Going Solo, 6. George’s Marvellous Medicine, 7. Danny the Champion of the World, 8. James and the Giant Peach, 9. The Twits, 10. Charlie and the Great Glass Elevator, 11. Boy Tales of Childhood, 12. Fantastic Mr. Fox, 13. Esio Trot, 14. Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, and 15. The Magic Finger
87. The Ramona Quimby Books (Beverly Cleary) – These award-winning books are the tales of the hilarious elementary-age Ramona Quimby. Once you pick these books up, you won’t be able to set them down.
88. The Horrible Harry Series (Suzy Kline) – This endearing trouble maker always has something up his sleeve, especially when he’s at his elementary school. You will laugh at Harry’s silliness.
89. Judy Moody Series (Megan McDonald) – Elementary age Judy Moody stumbles into daily adventures with her many moods and hilarious antics.
91. Middle School, the Worst Years of my Life (James Patterson) – This book addresses bullies, first crushes, and discovering what makes each middle schooler special through a laugh-out-loud-funny main character and engaging in-text illustrations. (#1 bestseller)
Problem-Solving Skills
These stories are about characters who are forced to often think outside the box as they solve problems. Come away from reading these tales with confidence and motivation to find solutions as well.
92. A Wrinkle in Time (Madeleine L’Engle) – A story of three friends adventuring through space and time in search of Meg’s scientist father. (963 Newbery Medal winner)
95. I am Princess X (Cherie Priest) – In this graphic novel, 5th grade best friends Libby and May wrote stories and illustrations about their invented Princess X. Then, Libby unexpectedly dies in a car accident. Or that’s what everyone thinks. Years later, May finds their make-believe Princess X showing up everywhere, on stickers, graffiti, and patches. Then she finds a whole Princess X underground culture. Could Libby still be alive?
98. 31 Clues Series (Rick Riordan) – In her will, Grace Cahill gave her descendants an impossible choice: “You have a choice – one million dollars or a clue.” Amy and Dan race around the world unearthing clues and finding hidden secrets about the powerful family they come from. Their greatest question: What REALLY happened to their parents? (#1 bestseller)
99. I Survived Series (Lauren Tarshis) – Different stories about families who survived the real-life natural disasters that made headlines. If you were tested by nature, what would you do to survive?
103. Down the Rabbit Hole (Peter Abrahams) – Ingrid Levin-Hill, age 13, is a soccer player, actress, and reader of Sherlock Homes. Her skills are put to the test when she finds herself wrapped up in a police investigation following an eccentric woman’s murder.
104. The Sisters Grimm (Michael Buckley and Peter Ferguson)– Orphaned sisters, Sabrina and Daphne, are sent to live with their newly discovered grandmother. There they learn they’re descendants of Brothers Grimm whose book of fairy tales is actually real family history. The sisters become fairy tale detectives and go on all sorts of adventures. (New York Times bestseller)
Stories that help you understand what makes a good friend, how you can be a good friend, and the type of friends you need.
107. Harry Potter Series (J.K. Rowling) – Three Hogwarts School of Wizard & Witchcraft misfits come together to battle the evil wizard Lord Voldemort. (#1 bestseller)
109. The Lord of the Rings Series (J.R.R. Tolkien) – What an adventure this series is. The ring threatens Middle Earth with pending doom. Only these companions can unravel the mysteries, fight the opposition and conquer evil.
110. The Hobbit (J.R.R. Tolkien) – If you like the Lord of the Rings, read about how the adventure of the Companions of Ring began in this epic book.
111. Charlotte’s Web (E. B White and Garth Williams)– This classic and beloved tale tells the story of the runt pig Wilbur who desperately wants friends. Read why this story is so beloved as you watch his friendship built with the girl, Fern, and spider, Charlotte – both who play a role in saving Wilbur’s life.
113. Old Yeller (Fred Gipson) – The classic story of Travis, a kid trusted by his dad to take care of their wilderness Texas frontier along with his faithful dog, “Old Yeller.” (Newbery Honor Award)
114. A to Z Mysteries (PJ Ryan) – Rebekah, a lovable and spunky 9-year-old, solves mysteries with her best friend, Mouse, in the small town of Curtis Bay.
115. Bridge to Terabithia (Katherine Paterson) – Jess Aarons and Leslie Burke bonded over being two of the fastest runners in the fifth grade. These two became best friends and spend most of their time in their invented enchanted land (Terabithia) behind Leslie’s home. Then tragedy strikes. (Newbery Medal Winner)
116. The Whipping Boy (Sid Fleischman) – The story of a prince and a pauper who are forced into trading places. This book full of unexpected adventure…and unexpected friendship. (Newbery Medal Winner)
117. The One and Only Ivan (Katherine Applegate) – This Newbery Medal Winner and New York Times bestseller tells the story of an unlikely friendship. Based on a true story, Ivan, a gorilla has lived 27 years behind the walls of a zoo. He is used to people watching him and never thinks of his life prior to captivity. Then the baby elephant, Ruby is captured from the wild and placed in the same zoo…
118. Because of Winn-Dixie (Kate DiCamillo) – Ten-year-old India Opal Buloni planned to pick up groceries at the local store, but instead came home with a dog. The friendship Winn-Dixie provides India grows in the child all sorts of courage. See how this adopted dog changes India’s life. (Newbery Honor Book)
119. Indian in the Cupboard (Lynne Reid Banks) – In this classic bestseller, Patrick gives his best friend Omri a small, toy Indian. Disappointed, Omri puts the plastic warrior in a metal cupboard securing the door with his great-grandmother’s skeleton key. But the key is magic. The toy is transformed into a real-life warrior in a different time and place. Omri and the former toy, Little Bear, become good friends. Will anyone discover Omri’s secret?
Stories that help you see how different families love, support, and work together. Learn ways that you can better support and add to or help create a strong family too.
124. Watson’s go to Birmingham (Christopher Paul Curtis)– This story is about the Watson family of Flint, Michigan. This hilarious family consists of mom, dad, Kenny (son), Joetta (little sister), Byron (13yo big brother). They head to Birmingham to spend time with Grandma. While there, Grandma’s church is blown up. Read this book to find out what happens next. (Newbery Honor Book)
125. Hank the Cowdog Series (John R. Erickson) – A fun and hilarious series about Hank the Cowdog. He’s head of security on his family’s Texas Ranch. Each day presents a new adventure.
126. Sarah, Plaine and Tall (Patricia MacLachlan) – This Newbery Medal-winning book is told from Anna’s point of view. A prairie-girl from the nineteenth century, her dad places an advertisement for a wife and mother to Anna and her brother, Caleb. Sarah Elizabeth Wheaton comes all the way from Maine…will the family like her?
Athlete’s Attitude
Learn about teamwork, perseverance, and the fun of sports. Learn how to transfer an empowering athlete’s attitude into your everyday life.
128. Roller Girl (Victoria Jamieson) – A graphic novel about surviving junior high through friendships and roller derby. This is a Newbery Award winner and New York Times bestseller.
129. The Home Team Collection (Mike Lupica) – “The Only Game” (Book 1): 7th grade is supposed to be amazing for the baseball star, Jack Callahan. Except Jack’s lost his brother and in his grief quits the team. Did he make the right decision? Most people say no. Except for two new friends who both think yes. Other books include: “The Extra Yard,” “Point Guard,” and “Team Players”
131. Rooting for Rafael Rosales (Kurtis Scaletta) – This story tells more than just about baseball. It weaves the story of Rafael, from the Dominican Republic, striving to play professional baseball with Grace and Maya, two sisters from the Twin Cities with dreams of becoming sports journalists.
Positive Thinking
Build positive thinking by walking in these characters’ shoes and seeing the world through their eyes.
132.Pollyanna (Eleanor H. Porter) – This classic book is loved by many. It’s about a delightful orphan girl who moves in with her Aunt Polly and changes a town.
133. Anne of Green Gables (Lucy Maud Montgomery) – A delightful red-headed orphaned girl transforms the lives of Matthew and Marilla Cuthbert, her appointed guardians. You will see why generations have fallen in love with the chatty and delightful Anne.
134. Heidi (Johanna Spyri) – This classic is the story of an orphan, Heidi, who went to live with her grandfather in the Swiss Alps. Heidi captures the heart of her grumpy grandfather, the neighbors, and mountain town residents. That’s only the start of this delightful, uplifting story.
136. The Flat Stanley Chapter Books (Jeff Brown) – Flat Stanley always finds adventures because he’s only 1/2 inch thick. (Thanks to the bulletin board that fell off the wall and squashed him.) But now, he can do things he could never do before – slide under doors, fly like a kite, become invisible and rescue aliens in outer space. His stories are fun to read.
137. The View from Saturday (E. L. Konigsburg) – A story about unlikely candidates who are a part of the winning six-grade Academic Bowl team and the teacher who chose them.
138.Little Women (Louisa May Alcott) – This beloved classic is about four March sisters growing up together. Their mother is supporting the family as their father is away at war.
139. A Dog’s Purpose: A Novel for Humans (W. Bruce Cameron) – Amazon describes this #1 New York Times bestseller as “the soulful and surprising story of one devoted dog who finds the meaning of his own existence through the lives of the humans he teaches to laugh and love.” W. Bruce Cameron writes other similar books including:
Learn from the past to make a brighter future. Develop discernment as you read this historical fiction.
140. My America Series (Patricia Hermes) – A series of fictional books that tells the stories of America’s history through the diary of children.
141. The Witch of Blackbird Pond (Elizabeth George Speare) – In this 1959 Newbery Medal winner, the story of Kit Tyler living during the colonial times (1687) in Connecticut unfolds. Kit finds a much-needed friend in Hannah Tupper, who the colonist believe is a witch.
142. Caddie Woodlawn (Carol Ryrie Brink) – A story of a delightful girl who loves hunting and plowing. She befriends Native Americans, avoids cooking and sewing, and breaks stereotypes. This fictional story, full of energy and joy, is special because it was written about the author’s beloved real-life grandmother.
143. Elijah of Buxton (Christopher Paul Curtis) – This Newberry Honor and Coretta Scott King Award Winner novel is about Elijah, the first child to be born free in the Buxton, Canada. This small town is close to the American border and home to runaway slaves. A thief steals money from his friend who has been saving the cash to free his family. Elijah makes it his purpose to find this thief and the adventure begins.
144. Number the Stars (Lois Lowry) – Annemarie Johansen is a part of the Danish movement to smuggle the entire Jewish population (nearly 7,000) to Sweden during WWII. (Newbery Medal Winner)
145. The Hiding Place (Corrie Ten Boom)– This is the story of a family of Dutch watchmakers who hide Jews in their home during WWII. Caught and sent to concentration camps, Corrie lives to tell her and her family’s story of courage and faith.
146. Maus Graphic Novels (Art Spiegelman) – This Pulitzer Prize-winning graphic novel is set during WWII with the mice representing the Jews and the cats, the Nazis. The author retells his father’s stories of the Holocaust.
Join this community of moms raising tweens and teens
You just dropped one kid off at practice, picked up another, and are trying to decide what to make for dinner. Your days are filled with work, parenting, and waiting for password reset emails.
You are parenting tweens and teens.
It’s an amazing life-phase, but also challenging in unique ways. In it all, you’d love a little encouragement to help you laugh, grow in faith, see parenting hacks, get ideas to connect with your kids, feel empowered in your personal growth, and celebrate the awesome momma you are.
I got you, friend. Sign up for Empowered Moms and Kids monthly emails and get inspiration, resources, and stories in your inbox geared for someone exactly in your life-chapter. It’s totally free and you can unsubscribe at any time.
Plus, you’ll get instant access to all the great resources in the freebie library.Join our community below.
For more ideas read the full “Entertaining Tweens and Teens” series.
The other day, I saw of picture of when my kids were little (like when I wrote this post), and I thought I so deeply want to go back to this season of life. I miss it.
But just as quickly as that thought came, another thought followed Someday, I will see pictures of my current parenting phase (raising tweens and teens) and wish to come back to today.
So, I want to do my best to enjoy this season of life. These ideas on how to connect with and entertain tweens and teens can help…
Cheryl is a mom of 3 boys, wife, speaker, high school teacher, and author of Empowered Moms & Kids. She has a Master’s degree in Educational Leadership and is passionate about learning and teaching. On www.empoweredmomsandkids.com you’ll find inspiration and encouragement for moms raising tweens and/or teens. Read more in the “about” section of this page.
(Inside: Prepare your child for middle school. This one thing will help parents and children thrive during the middle school years.) When I was in middle school, my mom came …
