As summer ends, middle grade readers (ages 8–12) will enjoy these books with mystery, time travel and unlikely friends.
A Spoonful of Time by Flora Ahn
Maya, a Korean-American middle schooler, connects with her family’s past through food … and time travel! This book mixes relatable family issues with playful adventure. Maya wonders what happened to her dad and why her mom seems distant now that her grandma is visiting. As Maya connects with her grandma through cooking and trips to the past, she learns more about her family than she bargained for. Most chapters end with a recipe for the Korean dish featured in that chapter.
Insignificant Events in the Life of a Cactus by Dusti Bowling
Aven was born without arms, but she would rather tell people she lost them wrestling an alligator or in a trapeze accident. When her family moves away from her friends, she feels lonely. Then she meets Connor, who has Tourette syndrome, and together they stumble upon a mystery at an amusement park that might change Aven’s whole life. Funny, sweet and even suspenseful, this book will appeal to readers who enjoyed Wonder by R.J. Palacio.
Ashley Christopherson is the owner of Niche Books in Lakeville. Read more at nichebooksmn.com.
