Hannah Wadsworth | Middle School Book Life

Dear Reader, I expect you'll really like this week's book—especially if you're a health teacher or a counselor. Anyone who works with 7th to 9th graders* should snag a copy as this story shares (amongst many rich storylines) a "how to" guide for speaking up in the face of sexual assault. I hope none of your students need it. But let's make it accessible, just in case. *For younger readers who need age-appropriate guidance on this topic, offer "Chirp" by Kate Messner. For older readers, "Dear...

Dear Reader, If looking out your window reveals snow, ice, or (like here in western Washington) pouring rain, then find your escape in this week's book, A Bit of Earth. Reading about young teenagers learning to garden and cultivate beauty will be a bit like time traveling to the promising warmth of spring. If you and your students need a mood boost, bring A Bit of Earth into your classroom. A Bit of Earth Title: A Bit of Earth Author: Karuna Riazi Genre: Realistic fiction Age range: 10+ (best...

Dear Reader, Everyone loves a little refresh of their classroom library. A new book on the shelves to welcome students back. A new author to spotlight. A new story to feature. If you'd like to do that when you return in January, try one of these titles. They're my 5 favorite books from 2023 for high schoolers (and make for great teacher reading over winter break!). Rez Ball by Byron Graves: Own voices. Native stories. Basketball. Grief. Determining your future. Navigating romance. This book...

Dear Reader, Welcome new subscribers! It was a pleasure connecting with so many book-loving educators last week during our raffle. I'm glad you have found your way here. Today's featured book is yet another one meant for our young teens—an age group that doesn't seem to be getting enough attention in the publishing world. Read on for why Pandita's story of grief and courage are worthy of shelf space in your classroom. "Hope in the Valley" Title: Hope in the Valley Author: Mitali Perkins...

Dear Reader, When it comes to studying literature with your students, do you gravitate towards whole class novels, book clubs (or lit circles), or independent study? I think of these as the three main buckets in secondary reading instruction and there's a lot to consider when figuring out what's best for your students. How independent are they? How large is the reading level range? What are their enthusiasm levels? I'm always curious to hear what's happening right now in real classrooms—would...