good books for 8th graders for a book report

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The Best Book-Report Books for Middle Schoolers

No need to dread a book report! When kids find titles that are engaging, interesting, and thought-provoking, they're hooked. If it's fiction, students can dissect plot, theme, and characters. If it's nonfiction, they can plunge into a subject that fascinates them or learn a lot about something they've never heard of before. Here's a list of surefire selections for students in sixth, seventh, and eighth grades. For even more ideas, check out 50 Books All Kids Should Read Before They're 12 .

Anne Frank: The Diary of a Young Girl

Inspiring wartime journal reveals teen's inner life.

The Apothecary, Book 1

Cold War kids use magic to save world in brilliant novel.

Everything Sad Is Untrue: (A True Story)

Young refugee's story is told in memories, myths, fables.

Goodbye Stranger

Bittersweet, lovely story of friendship and social media.

Genesis Begins Again

Teen learns to love herself in uplifting tale of misfits.

Hold on tight for an intense tale of survival.

A Long Walk to Water

Touching take on Lost Boys of Sudan, based on true story.

One Crazy Summer

A gem, with strong girl characters, '60s black history.

Poverty, being unhoused explored in hopeful tale.

The Port Chicago 50: Disaster, Mutiny, and the Fight for Civil Rights

Little-known disaster gets overdue, in-depth treatment.

The Red Badge of Courage

Compelling Civil War novel questions morality of battle.

Uglies: Uglies Quartet, Book 1

Thoughtful sci-fi about the price of beauty.

Interned girl, Native boy find common ground in moving tale.

All-American Muslim Girl

Captivating coming-of-age tale explores identity, racism.

American Ace

Moving, fast-paced novel-in-verse; great for teen boys.

Bomb: The Race to Build -- and Steal -- the World's Most Dangerous Weapon

Complex, suspenseful story of developing The Bomb.

The Boys Who Challenged Hitler: Knud Pedersen and the Churchill Club

Thrilling true story of teenagers who stood up to the Nazis.

Enchanted Air: Two Cultures, Two Wings

Poignant memoir-in-verse recalls Cuban American's childhood.

Long Way Down

Gripping, unnerving story of teen boy contemplating revenge.

My Name Is Not Easy

Fascinating story of Alaskan kids growing up in the 1960s.

Other great lists from our editors

• Coming-of-Age Books
• Books to Help Your Kid Survive Middle School
• How to Raise a Reader
• Help Your Kids Find Books with Diverse Characters
• How Comics Helped My Kid Love Reading

25 Captivating Books for 8th Graders

Classics, graphic novels, fantasies, and more that are great books for 8th graders to pick up (many suggested from eighth grade students where I teach!).

Alison Doherty

Alison Doherty is a writing teacher and part time assistant professor living in Brooklyn, New York. She has an MFA from The New School in writing for children and teenagers. She loves writing about books on the Internet, listening to audiobooks on the subway, and reading anything with a twisty plot or a happily ever after.

View All posts by Alison Doherty

Finding books for eighth graders can be a tricky tightrope to walk. Some 8th graders are already immersed in adult books. Others might not love reading or still might be struggling to read with ease. Both of these are normal. And between middle grade fantasy , classics, romances, and graphic novels , I tried to pick 25 books that will appeal to all kinds of 8th grade readers.

With a mixture of books from middle grade, young adult, and adult categories, I searched through reviews to make sure these were all considered appropriate for 13- and 14-year-old readers. Many are also suggestions I’ve gotten from 8th grade students where I teach. Without further stalling, here are 25 books for all kinds of 8th grade readers.

Best New Books for 8th Graders

When you were everything by ashley woodfolk.

Cleo and Layla used to be best friends. But in Sophomore year, everything changes. The two drift apart until their friendship dramatically ends. Cleo is still trying to make sense of what happens as she tries to move forward making new friends, listening to jazz and reading her beloved Shakespeare. Told in two timelines, before and after, Cleo’s story of grieving for a lost friendship will be relevant for many 8th graders trying to process past middle school friend drama and looking forward to high school.

The Kingdom of Back by Marie Lu

This is a historical fantasy novel based on Mozart’s older sister, Maria, that came out in March. Maria Anna is a musical prodigy in her own right. She travelled around Europe with her brother performing throughout her childhood. This story mixes the 18th century world they lived in with the fantasy world of Back, which the real Mozart siblings invented on their travels as children. Throughout the story Maria Anna must straddle the worlds: one full of magical fairy friends who may or may not have her best interest at heart and another where her brother’s gender means he will achieve musical accolades she can only dream of.

The Extraordinaries by TJ Klune

A queer superhero story full of suspense, action, and romance. Nick Bell doesn’t have any super powers. But he writes super popular fan fiction about the heroes who do. And after a chance encounter with his favorite figure, Shadow Star, he begins a quest to turn his ordinary life into something more.

Infinity Son by Adam Silvera

Emil and Brighton are brothers living in a speculative version of New York City, where people can be born with special powers and abilities and Spell Walkers fight the specters who want to take those powers away. When Emil discovers his own powers and Brighton uploads a video of him, both brothers’ futures and their relationships are tested in a story of jealousy, loyalty, and adventure. This is a science fiction/fantasy hybrid story that came out earlier this year. It’s almost guaranteed to keep 8th grade readers turning pages.

Clap When You Land by Elizabeth Acevedo

Camino Rios lives in the Dominican Republic. Yahaira Rio lives in New York City. They don’t know about each other, or even know they have a sister, until their beloved Papi unexpectedly dies in an airplane crash, flying from New York to the Dominican Republic to visit Camino. As both grieve, they learn about each other and unravel the web of secrets their family kept from them. Told in dual perspectives, through the beautiful verse of each girl’s poetry, the Rios sisters try to figure out how to keep pursuing their dreams even when tragedy strikes.

Classic Books for 8th Graders

The house on mango street by sandra cisneros.

This 1984 novel by Mexican American writer Sandra Cisneros uses vignettes to tell the story of Esperanza Cordero. Esperanza is a middle school girl growing up in the Hispanic quarter of Chicago. Living in a poor neighborhood, she dreams of moving somewhere else. But the book explores the culture around her, both celebrating her Mexican American culture and exposing the sexist influences in her life that Esperanza tries to overcome throughout the story.

The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien

This familiar fantasy story is a precursor to the longer and more challenging Lord of the Rings Trilogy. It’s a contained adventure story in an epic fantasy world. With dwarves, hobbits, sword fights, wizards, and dragons, the book’s plot and humor have stood the test of time. There is a reason this book has been popular with children and adult readers for more than eighty years!

The Hound of the Baskervilles by Arthur Conan Doyle

For budding mystery readers, introduce them to a classic whodunnit. The famous detective Sherlock Holmes and his companion Watson set out to investigate a new case in Dartmoor, England. A man is dead with enormous dog pawprints leading to his body. Some believe it is a coincidence. Others believe in a family curse and a local legend of a supernatural dog, able to frighten people to death. Holmes and Watson arrive in Dartmoor to find several unexplainable occurrences and clues. Together, they start to unravel a puzzle that defined mystery and detective fiction ever since this book was published.

Things Fall Apart by Chinua Achebe

This is a classic that’s great to read at almost any age. I read this in middle school and again in college. It was published in 1959 and has become a rare African book accepted into the academic cannon. The fascinating novel follows the character Okonkwo, who’s living in an Igbo village in Nigeria. His life dramatically changes as white missionaries and colonialism influence the world around him. Despite a bleak subject, the story is infused with lyrical writing and moments of humor.

Award-Winning Books for 8th Graders

Brown girl dreaming by jacqueline woodson.

Winner of the National Book Award, the Coretta Scott King Award, and a Newberry Honor Book, Brown Girl Dreaming  uses poetry for the author to tell her true story of growing up Black in the 1960s and 1970s. Woodson’s beautiful, sparse language explores big ideas, while describing her family, her growing awareness of race and the Civil Rights movement, and her life split between South Carolina and New York City.

I’ll Give You the Sun by Jandy Nelson

This book won the Printz Award and is a Stonewall Honor Book. It follows twins Noah and Jude, alternating between their perspectives and two different periods of time. One, when they are 13, inseparable, their mother is still alive, and Noah is falling in love for the first time with their new neighbor Brian. The second is when the twins are 16, barely speaking, and without their mother. Along with powerful, lyrical prose, the book explores what it means to be an artist, what it means to be a family, and what it means to grow up.

Scythe by Neal Shusterman

This book won the Printz award and gained several other honors and smaller awards as well. In a dystopian (or perhaps utopian) future, technological advances have eliminated death by natural causes. Society has created a new roll “Scythes” who kill people to keep the population under control. Two teenagers, Rowan and Citra, are training to become Scythes. But in the course of their training, they uncover massive corruption within the Scythe system. The secrets they uncover and their relationship with each other will change both their destinies and the course of society at large.

The Field Guide to the North American Teenager by Ben Philippe

This book is the 2020 winner the Morris Award, which honors new writers making their young adult debut. In it, Norris a Black French Canadian teenager who must acclimate to a new life in Austin, Texas. He observes and categorizes everyone around him and longs to go home to Canada. And sometimes—just sometimes—Norris learns to see past his assumptions and categorizations to make friends or, at least, understand the individual people around him more clearly.

 Challenging Books for 8th Graders

The interpreter of maladies by jhumpa lahiri.

This Pulitzer Prize–winning short story collection explores the lives of Indian and Indian American characters who feel caught between the cultures of both countries. The immigrant experience is portrayed through lyrical prose and intense character study. This book does touch on adult themes, such as death, grief, and sexuality, but appears on some middle school and 9th grade curriculums. The Interpreter of Maladies will be a challenging book for advanced and mature 8th graders to read.

The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern

With multiple perspectives, sophisticated setting descriptions, and a complicated magic system, this novel could be a good “reach” book for 8th graders. Two young magicians, Celia and Marcus, have been training for a magical duel their whole lives. The duel involves one upping each other in the creation of a magical circus. But when they meet and have feelings for each other, the competition is put at risk. But in love or not, the game keeps demanding more and more from each magician. Neither wants to lose the game or each other.

The Fire Next Time by James Baldwin

This nonfiction book addresses racism in America and describes Baldwin’s early life growing up in Harlem. The book consists of two essays: “My Dungeon Shook—Letter to my Nephew on the One Hundredth Anniversary of the Emancipation” and “Down at the Cross—Letter From a Region of My Mind.” They were written in the 1960s, but function as both a historical read and one that is unfortunately still relevant in America today. The essays were written for an adult reader, but are appropriate for mature 8th grade readers and sure to spark important discussions.

Fantasy Books for 8th Graders 

Nocturna by maya motayne.

In a Latinx inspired fantasy world, Finn is a thief with the magical ability to change her appearance and Alfie is prince with magical powers of his own. Their paths cross when Alfie unleashes a powerful dark magic in the hopes of bringing back his dead older brother. Finn just happens to be in the palace, attempting to steal a mystical cloak of invisibility. They’re pasts and personalities couldn’t be more different. But they have to work together, or their world will be destroyed forever.

Tristan Strong Punches a Hole in the Sky by Kwame Mbalia

Eighth graders who love mythology and Rick Riordan books (AKA pretty much every eighth grader I’ve ever taught who likes reading) will devour this new fantasy series. While spending the summer at his grandparents’ farm in Alabama, Tristan accidentally opens—punches—a portal to the magical and scary world of MidPass. MidPass weaves together African American and West African gods. To return home, Tristan must convince the trickster god Anansi to seal the hole he created in the sky. But first, Anansi asks for a dangerous favor in return.

Mechanica by Betsy Cornwell

Steampunk, science-forward Cinderella retelling. Do I need to say more to convince 8th grade readers to pick up this book? I doubt it, but I’ll keep going. Nic is called Mechanica by her cruel stepsisters. They think it’s an insult, but being an inventor is one of her proudest accomplishment. She’s created impressive technology to do all the chores her stepmother pushes on her. And instead of a ball, Nic is preparing for the royal science exposition in hopes of finding funders to gain her independence. There is a prince. He is dreamy. But he is also not the only way for Nic to get the future she dreams of for herself.

Akata Witch by Nnedi Okorafor

Sunny was born in New York but now lives in Alba, Nigeria. This and the fact that she’s albino make her feel like an outsider. But when she’s 12, she makes friends with  Orlu and Chichi and is thrust into the magical world of the Leopard People. In this world, she learns how to perform her own magic and harness her power. She must keep it a secret from her family, but also gives her a sense of belonging. But the stakes are raised when Sunny and her friends are tasked with finding Black Hat Otokoto, a Leopard man responsible for kidnapping and hurting many children.

Romance Books for 8th Graders

I wanna be where you are by kristina forest.

Eighth graders will love looking ahead to high school in this road trip ballet romcom. Chloe’s dream is to dance at a ballet conservatory in New York City. Her mom, however, won’t let her audition. But when her mom goes on vacation, Chloe road trips down to Washington, D.C., to try out. The only problem is her ex–best frenemy and neighbor Eli finds out and blackmails her into taking him and his smelly dog Geezer along. Eli is trying to figure out his future as well. If he’ll go to the school his dad wants or follow his own dream to study art. Along the way, both characters learn lessons, gain confidence, and sparks fly between them.

The Gravity of Us by Phil Stamper

Cal and Leon are both the sons of astronauts and meet when their fathers are preparing for a new NASA mission to Mars. For publicity, they become involved in a space-themed reality TV show. Both must deal with being thrust into the national spotlight as they figure out their romantic attraction and connection. But when Cal finds out secrets about the space program, he feels torn. He wants to world to know the truth. But he doesn’t want to hurt the people he loves.

All the Things We Never Knew by Liara Tamani

A first love story that unfolds against the backdrop of the basketball court. When basketball players Carli and Rex meet, they fall for each other fast. But is love for each other enough when secrets, uncertain futures, and self-doubt enter the relationship? Equal parts hilarious and emotional, this book is always Romantic with a capital R. Prepare to swoon, 8th grade readers!

Graphic Novels for 8th Graders

New kid by jerry craft.

An own voices graphic novel about following your passions and fitting in. Jordan wants to go to art school, but his parents enroll him in a fancy private school where is one of the only kids of color. He appreciates the education and starts making friends, but feels like he is being split between two worlds. And he realizes that neither his neighborhood self or his school self feel like real, authentic versions of him.

The Prince and the Dressmaker by Jen Wang

Prince Sebastian’s parents want him to find a bride. But he is hiding a key part of his identity from everyone: At night, he wears the most fashionable dresses and charms the Parisian social scene as Lady Crystallia. Only his best friend and dressmaker, Frances, knows his secret. But Frances has her own ambitions beyond making dresses for just the prince. This is a romantic fairytale that embraces the power of true friendship and the truth that boys can wear dresses.

I hope there’s something here for almost every 8th grade reader, spanning interests and reading level. But of course, there are hundreds and hundreds of other wonderful books for 8th graders to fall in love with. After going through these one, this list of 100 must-read middle school books should be next on your list!

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Home » Reading lists for Middle School children » 8th grade reading books for children aged 13-14

8th grade reading books for children aged 13-14

Grade 8 books – this list of suggested reading books has been carefully selected by educators and librarians for junior high and middle school students aged 13-14. There is a range of exciting and thought-provoking books to suit all abilities in the 8th grade and over the course of a year, these titles should inspire both those who are reluctant to read, and also challenge high achieving pupils. This list of 8th grade reading recommendations includes titles by Gerald Durrell, J.R.R. Tolkien, Sharon Creech,Angie Thomas, Malala Yousafzai, Mark Twain and Mary Shelley.

Books for Grade 8 – our recommendations

Northwind by gary paulsen.

When a plague forces Leif, an orphan, to flee for his life in a canoe with barely any food, he embraces his newfound freedom and grows to love the wide open seas and the Norwegian coast. Learning to forage, and live off the land and sea, he feels at home amongst the wildlife. It’s a gripping story of resilience, determination and survival. Highly recommended.

All Summer Long by Hope Larson

When Austin returns from summer soccer camp everything is different. 13-year-old Bina cannot understand it – they used to do everything together. Will they be able to work things out, or will Bina’s new friendship with Austin’s sister change their relationship? A thought-provoking insight into the complex teen mind, growing up, and how people change. The graphic novel format and relatable characters will appeal to less confident readers.

As Long as the Lemon Trees Grow by Zoulfa Katouh

Salama’s normal teenage life seems long ago as she finds herself helping in a hospital in wartorn Syria. Will she stay to help those in need, or will she flee to ensure her survival? Dealing with unimaginable fear Salama is an inspirational character and As Long as the Lemon Trees Grow is a brilliantly written, life-affirming, and heartbreaking story that is perfect for book club discussion.

Hope Was Here by Joan Bauer

Ideal for middle-grade readers, this book has won numerous awards. Hope finds herself helping her aunt to run a diner in rural Wisconsin – a long way from lively New York. Her friendship with G.T. Stoop, the diner’s owner, develops into a coming of age story of trust and truth.

My Family and Other Animals by Gerald Durrell

The first in the ‘Corfu Trilogy’, this book tells the story of Gerald Durrell’s childhood experiences for five years on the island of Corfu and the wildlife and animals he keeps. His larger than life relatives and the colorful characters encountered make this a funny novel bound to appeal to middle graders interested in nature and unconventional family life.

Animal Farm by George Orwell

In this classic allegory, the animals take over the farm. They tried to create a perfect world where everybody is valued and treated equally however things don’t go entirely to plan. Written as an antithesis to controlling totalitarianism this is a book every teenager should read.

The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian by Sherman Alexie

An evocative and humorous story based on the author’s own life. When Junior, a talented artist, realizes that he wants to follow his dream, his life changes completely when he joins a new high school where he is the only Indian on the campus. A modern classic. A good book for 8th grade reading group discussion.

Adventures of Huckleberry Finn by Mark Twain

A rollercoaster of a story about the life of young Huckleberry Finn and his friend Tom Sawyer and the shenanigans they get up to on the banks of the Mississippi River. This book features some controversial themes including his father’s alcoholism and the treatment of Miss Watson slave, Jim. A story, that once read, will never be forgotten.

Diary of a Young Girl by Anne Frank

Collated by her father Otto, after the second world war, this is the diary of Anne Frank who, aged between 13 and 16 wrote about being in hiding from the Nazis and Amsterdam. Poignant and moving, this is a book that should be on every high school curriculum. Arguably one of the most important books written in the 20th century.

The Serpent King by Jeff Zentner

A gripping and moving story about a misfit and awkward teen, Dill, who lives in a small community Bible belt Tennessee. When deals father becomes a hated figure, Dill cannot cope and relies on the support of his two best friends. A heart-rending and powerful story about forgiveness and redemption.

The Hate you Give by Angie Thomas

A multi-award-winning novel about Starr Carter, a teenager who has one foot in the exclusive preppy world of her school and the other foot in the deprived neighborhood of her home. When her best friend is shot by a police officer, she is the only person who knows what really happened. A startlingly powerful young adult novel. A great book to discuss in 8th grade reading clubs.

Go Tell It on the Mountain by James Baldwin

A powerful psychological and unrelenting study of growing up in an abusive environment. When the protagonist, a 14-year-old boy, realizes that his family is not all that it seems, he starts to rebel against his self-righteous preacher stepfather in this gritty landmark first novel set in Harlem.

2001 by Arthur C Clarke

When a scientist discovers a mysterious object on the Moon, mankind embarks on an expedition to the furthest reaches of space in search of an alien civilization. However, the voyage is a slowly building battle between man and computer, heading towards an inevitable catastrophe.

Lord Jim by Joseph Conrad

A disgraced naval officer redeems himself by protecting villagers from a local bandit. Written as a series of manuscripts told by a third party, using time shifts, this is a great book for eighth-graders to study.

Daughter of Smoke and Bone by Laini Taylor

A unique and genre-defying young adult novel that is perfectly suited to grade 8 book clubs. Set in the “Elsewhere”, a world where angels battle mythical creatures, Karou and Akiva are drawn, as if by magic, from the opposite sides of the conflict into a love story – and perhaps the only hope for peace.

Life of Pi by Yann Martel

A more challenging read for grade 8 students, Life of Pi chronicles 16-year-old Pi, the only survivor of a shipwreck. His only companions in the lifeboat are a hyena, and orangutan, and a huge tiger. Memorable, and beautifully written.

I Am Malala by Malala Yousafzai

Destined to become an important work in the 21st century, Malala’s autobiographical story takes her from a victim of Taliban in 2012 to becoming the youngest ever recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize. An inspirational and motivating book which is bound to appeal to middle school and junior high school students in grade 8.

Twilight by Stephanie Meyer

Isabella’s new life in Forks, Washington takes an unexpected turn when a boy she is attracted to turns out to be a vampire. Extremely readable and popular, this five volume set is a great way to reignite the fire of reading in disenchanted teenagers.

Nimona by ND Stevenson

This is no ordinary historical story about dragons and heroes. Nimona is a classic graphic novel in the making – peppered with ironic observations and quick, pointed humor that will appeal to 8th grader readers. Stunningly illustrated.

The Other Side of Truth by Beverley Naidoo

When Sadie and Femi’s journalist father refuses to keep quiet about corruption among the military rulers in Nigeria, their mother is suddenly killed, and they have to flee to London. This study of what it is to be displaced and a refugee is a modern classic. This is a book that will stimulate discussion and debate in 8th grade reading groups.

Parrot in the Oven by Victor Martinez

14-year-old Manny wants respect, he wants to prove himself and he wants to kiss a girl. This multi-award-winning novel follows his journey in the face of discrimination and poverty. Poignant and memorable.

Deep Blue by Jennifer Donnelly

In a world of nightmares, magic dreams and demons, mermaid Seraphina has to fight for peace between warring nations. She is also set on avenging her parents and wooing a prince. Teen drama and adventure on a grand and underwater scale.

Frankenstein by Mary Shelley

When alchemist and scientist Victor Frankenstein misguidedly attempts to reanimate a creature from dead body parts, he creates a monster that threatens his very existence. An accessible classic gothic horror with a lightning-quick pace that will appeal to teen readers.

Mosquitoland by David Arnold

Teenage Mim is forced to move across the state to live with her father after a nasty divorce. But when she learns her mother is ill, she boards a greyhound and throws caution to the wind in this epic coming of age YA drama. An ideal book for 8th grade reading groups.

The 5th Wave by Rick Yancey

A collection of science-fiction page-turners that will prove popular with reluctant 8th-grade readers. A survivor of a crippling alien attack, Cassie is desperate to save her missing brother. She is so desperate that she is willing to go to extreme lengths to find him.

Lord of the Rings by JRR Tolkien

A quest for a magic ring that grants the wearer huge power dominates this epic high fantasy tale of good vs evil. Popular amongst teens, this novel was recently turned into a series of blockbuster movies.

The One and Future King by TH White

An epic and spellbinding retelling of the legend of King Arthur told in five parts – King Arthur and Camelot; Merlin and Owl and Guinevere, beasts who talk and men who fly and tales of knights, wizardry, and war. Great for students interested in history, myth, and legend.

The Boys Who Challenged Hitler by Phillip Hoose

A fascinating and inspirational story about a group of brave middle grade aged children and their acts of defiance in Denmark during World War Two. Based on a true story.

The Count of Monte Cristo by Alexandre Dumas

A classic tale of betrayal, imprisonment and slow, beautiful revenge. Originally written for weekly serialization, this book is gripping and pacy and it might well be the first 100,000 plus story your teen will be captivated by. It’s also fantastic to listen to as an audiobook.

Absolutely Normal Chaos by Sharon Creech

The prequel to Walk Two Moons, Absolutely Normal Chaos follows 13-year-old Mary Lou’s summer vacation – an unforgettable summer of adventure, gossip, and burgeoning romance. A page-turner that is ideal for more mature 8th graders.

The Rig by Joe Ducie

When serial prison escapee and 15-year-old Will gets sent to The Rig, he thinks finding a way out will be easy. That’s until he realizes The Rig is in the middle of the Arctic Ocean. No one has ever come close to breaking out. Gripping and pacy, this is a perfect book for reluctant readers in grade 8.

Ender’s Game by Orson Scott Card

Facing a seemingly unbeatable and ruthless alien invader, Earth needs a military genius. Teenaged boy Ender is chosen from thousands to lead the fight – but is he being manipulated? Recently made into a blockbuster movie, this book is a great easy reader for 8th graders.

The Chess Queen Enigma by Colleen Gleason

When the sister of Stoker and the niece of Holmes get together, uncovering vampire crime mysteries are a regular day’s work. This is a gripping and atmospheric drama set in a fantasy London of the past.

Beautiful Swimmers by William Warner

An evocative and interesting study of blue crabs in the Chesapeake Bay. Brilliantly written – this is a more challenging book for grade 8 readers interested in science and natural history.

Finding Wonders by Jeannine Atkins

This is an engaging set of three biographical stories of women who changed the world. Maria Merian – who documented metamorphosis, Mary Anning, who survived a lightning strike and discovered fossils, and Maria Mitchell, who found a new comet. Presented as poems, these stories are an ideal starting point for 8th-grade writing activities.

Click the buttons below to purchase all of the books in this 8th grade book list, as well as classroom sets of any of these books and many more, from Bookshop.org. Or buy the 20 most popular titles from this list from Amazon – ideal for gifts or stocking your school library. If you are ordering from outside the US, have a look at our ‘worldwide orders’ page which makes this process easy.

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50 Must-Read​ Books for Eighth Graders

by AuthorAmy

Welcome to Amy’s Bookshelf! Here, teachers will find carefully curated book lists for each grade level from kindergarten to twelfth grade. Moving forward, new lists filled with book recommendations will be published weekly. Sometimes, these lists will be organized around a specific theme, like a holiday or seasonal event. Other times, they will feature rockstar books – books practically guaranteed to get your students reading. 

Before jumping into reading recommendations, a few words about how books are selected.

First, it is so important that teachers prioritize reading interest over reading level. Students will often choose to read well above or below their reading level if they are particularly interested in a book or topic. Teachers only hurt students by limiting them to a specific selection of titles grouped according to an arbitrary number or level. Think of the books on these lists as starting places for you and your students, but if a student wants to read up (or down), that is a-ok.

Also, please note that these lists lean heavily toward modern selections as opposed to the classics many teachers are familiar with. A true renaissance is happening in children’s literature today, and the books coming out are truly exciting. One of the factors that makes this such an exciting time for kid lit is how diverse the selections are in terms of genre, characters and subject matter. These lists will feature fiction and nonfiction selection as well as graphic novels, novels written in verse, and more.

Any book list or classroom library worth its salt includes books featuring LGBTQIA+ characters, racially diverse characters, characters with disabilities, characters in the foster care system, characters from a wide variety of socioeconomic and religious backgrounds, and so on. Importantly, the diversity of the characters doesn’t always need to be the focus of the literature – in other words, a book featuring a black character or gay character doesn’t need to be about those individuals exploring their blackness or their gayness; those characters can have kid problems that apply to all children regardless of their race or sexual orientation. Similarly, students should be encouraged to read stories featuring people of diversity all year long – not just during a month set aside to celebrate a specific heritage.

One final note: today’s children’s literature does not shy away from frank discussions of gender, race, sex, sexuality, abuse, mental illness, and more – nor should it. I will not censor books from these lists based on these controversial areas. What books you recommend will depend on the specific district you work in and your clientele. I encourage you and your students to read widely without fear.

Eighth Grade

Eighth grade students are on the cusp of high school, so the books on this list are reflective of their level of increasing maturity. Many of the books on this list are appropriate for middle school and high school students.

Just so you know, Bored Teachers may get a small share of the sales made through the Amazon affiliate links on this page.

by Alan Gratz

Refugee is one of those “everyone must read this book” books. It span ages and is equally powerful as a middle school or high school text. This is the journey of three children, all refugees, fleeing from a terror regime. Josef lives in Germany and flees from the Nazis with his family; Isabel tries to escape Cuba for American shores, and Mahmoud is a modern-day Syrian refugee. Though they are from different times in history, their stories intersect in surprising ways. 

2. Ready Player One

by Ernest Cline

In a dystopian world where the economy has crashed, people around the world log into the Oasis, a virtual reality platform. The creator of the Oasis, an eccentric billionaire, has died and left his fortune buried somewhere within the game. This story follows teenager Wade as he gets closer and closer to the treasure, a dangerous game when so many want what he is close to having. 

3. Journey by Aaron Becker

This is a wordless picture book that is about a girl who, using a magic marker, draws herself an escape from the ordinary into the extraordinary. It’s sort of a Harold’s Purple Crayon for adolescents and adults, with a more nuanced story and theme. 

4. Peter and the Starcatchers

by Dave Barry and Ridley Pearson

Humor authors Dave Barry and Ridley Pearson imagine an origin story for Peter Pan. How did Peter end up in Neverland and what happened to his parents? Why is Hook afraid of crocodiles? Where did Tinkerbell come from, and who are the lost boys? All these questions and more are answered, and this book is both a page-turner and laugh-out-loud funny. 

5. Keeper of the Night

by Kimberley Willis Holt

Keeper of the Night takes place in Guam, and the story is richly populated with details enough to make the reader feel like they’ve stepped into Isabel’s world. Isabel’s mother has died, leaving her family reeling. Isabel wants to piece her family back together, and this is the story of how she does so. 

6. The Graveyard Book

by Neil Gaiman

Nobody Owens, or Bod, is a toddler who inadvertently escapes from Jack, who murders his family. Bod winds up in the local graveyard and is raised by ghosts. When Bod reaches adolscence, however, he wants to stretch his legs and explore away from his ghost family, a proposition that could prove very dangerous to him, indeed. 

7. Science Verse

by Jon Scieszka and Lane Smith

Science is delivered here in raucous poetic form. The author and illustrator combine to create an inna t e dance through science, from the food chain to the creation of a black hole. 

8. Moonshot

by Brian Floca

Moonshot is Brian Floca’s retelling of the Apollo 11 moon landing in picture book form. Floca is well-known for creating picture books about the machines that humans take journeys in, and as with his other works, this one is marvelous. 

9. Al Capone Does My Shirts

by Gennifer Choldenko

Moose Flanagan lives on Alcatraz in the 1930s, when the prison housed the likes of Al Capone. Moose is one of 23 children living on the island because their parents work as prison guards or cooks or doctors. The kids get into all sorts of trouble on the small island, and this is a highly engaging story about those anctics. There are three other Alcatraz books after this one. 

10. Flying Lessons and Other Stories

edited by Ellen Oh

This short story collection is a compendium of stories from today’s top teen authors, and there’s something for everyone, including a short story in verse. 

11. Touching Spirit Bear

by Ben Mikaelsen

Instead of going to juvey, Cole Matthews is sent to the remote, Alaskan Circle Justice, a rehabilitation program for juvenile offenders like himself. Cole is attacked by a white bear, what is sometimes called a spirit bear, and left for dead. The attack changes Cole’s outlook and this is ultimately a story of redemption. 

12. Some Writer! The Story of E.B. White

by Melissa Sweet

American icon E.B. White is perhaps best known for Charlotte’s Web, but he was a prolific writer who wrote essays, contributed to the New Yorker, and published many other children’s books, too. This book is a lengthier picture book biography of White that includes many letters and other family artifacts that give readers an insight into this iconic American writer. 

13. Calling All Minds: How to Think and Create Like an Inventor

by Temple Grandin

Temple Grandin, the renowned spokesperson for autism, shares her insight into the various ways a person can solve a problem. The message of this book is that there is more than one way to look at the world, to think about things, to use your imagination and to arrive at a new idea. Grandin does this by looking at inventions and the thought process behind them.

14. The Night Diary

by Veera Hiranandani

Nisha watches her home country of India divide into India and Pakistan in 1947, and suddenly, Muslims and Hindus are being killed crossing the new border. Nisha’s family decides they, too, must cross, and she fears for her life during the long journey. 

15. Zen Shorts

by Jon J. Muth

A giant panda moves into the neighborhood and begins telling children ancient Zen tales in this picture book. Author/illustrator Jon Muth followed up the popular Zen Shorts with a number of other Zen tales (including Zen Ghosts and Zen Ties ) which are all worth reading. 

16. Bound by Ice

by Sandra Neil Wallace and Rich Wallace

The ship Jeannette sets sail for the Arctic from San Francisco, looking for a route to the North Pole. The ship becomes locked inside Arctic ice and sinks after two years adrift. The crew escape on lifeboats and make a harrowing journey back to civilization that not all survice. 

17. Super Women: Six Scientists Who Changed the World

by Laurie Lawlor

Six mini biographies are included in this book. Each paints a portrait of a lesser-known woman scientist who relentlessly pursued her studies despite obstacles in her path, many of which were gender-based. The biographies are accompanied by photographs, and the whole package is an engaging read. 

18. Out of Wonder: Poems Celebrating Poets

by Kwame Alexander, Chris Colderley, and Marjory Wentworth

Three of today’s well-known poets, Kwame Alexander, Chris Colderley and Marjory Wentworth, write poems in honor of their favorite poets. 

19. Stormy Seas: Stories of young boat refugees

by Mary Beth Leatherdale and Eleanor Shakespeare

Contrasted with Refugee , at the start of this list, this book is a collection of five true stories about refugees who boarded a boat in search of a better life. Many infographics are included alongside the stories with more historical informatin. 

20. Strong Inside

(Young Readers Edition) by Andrew Maraniss

Perry Wallace was the first black man to play college basketball in the Southeastern Conference. He accepted an offer to play ball at Vanderbilt and crossed into a world where hatred and racism were deeply entrenched. This is his story. 

21. The Magician and the Spirits: Harry Houdini

by Deborah Noyes

Harry Houdini, in addition to being a magician and stage performer, had a fascination for the occult. He spent much time investigating whether or not accounts of contact with “the other side” were real or just stage illusions like his own. 

22. Ender’s Game

by Orson Scott Card

Set in the near future, the earth has been attacked by aliens called buggers. The earth must mount a resistance force before the aliens come back, and the military turns to elite child genuises. Andrew “Ender” Wiggin is the best of the best and he is taken from his family and trained to be the military general that will lead the fight against the aliens. 

23. The Hobbit

by J.R.R. Tolkien

A band of dwarves plus the unlikely companion of hobbit Bilbo Baggins set out to steal back treasure from the dangerous dragon Smaug. This classic novel is a prequel to the longer Lord of the Rings trilogy. 

24. Better Nate Than Ever

by Tim Federle

Nate Foster wants to star in a broadway show more than he wants anything else in life, but he knows he will never get close if he remains in his homestate of Pennslyvania. He learns that there is an open casting call for a musical and makes a daring trip to New York City to be there for it. 

25. Not your Sidekick by C.B. Lee

Jessica’s parents are superheroes, but Jessica is not. She just wants to get an internship to help her get into a good college. The internship she ends up getting is in the employ of her parents’ arch enemies but allows Jessica to work alongside Abby, who she has a secret crush on. 

26. The Evolution of Calpurnia Tate

by Jacqueline Kelly

Calpurnia’s grandfather is a naturalist, and the two of them bond when she asks him some scientific questions about grasshoppers. Their relationship grows, as does Calpurnia’s interest in science. 

27. The House of the Scorpion

by Nancy Farmer

Matt is a clone of El Patrón, who divided his cells in a test tube and then placed his developing embroyo in the uterus of a cow. The world sees Matt as an abomination but Matt didn’t ask to be created, and now that he’s here, he’s grappling with his identity and navigating the dangerous world occupied by El Patrón.

28. Enchanted Air: Two Cultures, Two Wings: A Memoir

by Margarita Engle

Margarita lives in Los Angeles, except when she lives in Cuba during the summer with her mother. Margarita loves Cuba and lives for those summer months. But the United States is trapped in the Cold War, and when Cuba becomes a central part of the conflict, Margarita’s two sides are suddenly at war. 

29. Forget Me Not

by Ellie Terry

Calliope has never felt like she fits in, which is perhaps why she turns to the night skies. She loves astronomy, and the stars do not judge her for having Tourettes like the kids at school do. It’s only when Calliope’s mom moves her to another new school that she finally starts to make friends. 

30. The Outsiders

by S.E. Hinton

It’s the Socs versus the Greasers in this iconic novel about Ponyboy and his buddies. The boys live on the outskirts of society and sometimes scuffles break out between the two groups. One night, things go too far. 

31. The Earth, My Butt, and Other Big Round Things

by Carolyn Mackler

Virginia is a plus-sized teenager, which makes everything about being a teenager harder. She feels pathetic next to her perfect family, especially her perfect brother. But then a serious accusation is levied against her brother, and the family’s world is rocked to its core. 

32. Monster by Walter Dean Myers

Steve Harmon is 16 and is being tried for murder after he was the lookout in the shooting of a drugstore owner. Steve, prior to the murder trial, was an amateur filmmaker so he transcribes his experiences, and Monster is the result. 

33. Lucky Broken Girl

by Ruth Behar

Ruthie Mizrahi’s family has moved to the United States from Cuba. Here, she suffers a horrific accident that leaves her in a full body cast for an entire year. Because Ruthie can’t move, the book is mostly her inner monologue, which grows over the bedridden year.

34. The First Rule of Punk

by Celia C. Perez

Malú learns the first rule of punk from her dad, and it’s “be yourself.” Which is all fine until Malú colossally messes up her first day of school. She decides to try her dad’s advice and assembles a punk band of misfits, finding herself along the way. 

35. Breakout

by Kate Messner

Nora’s summer vacation plans are majorly messed up when the nearby prison experiences a high-profile prison break. Suddenly, the neighborhood is on house arrest. This is a multi-genre novel told in many formats including comics, poems, and letters. 

36. Flowers for Algernon

by Daniel Keyes

Algernon is a lab mouse who has undergone surgery to increase his IQ, and soon this surgery is applied to Charlie Gordon. The operation successfully increases Charlie’s intelligence, but only temporarily, and he is forced to watch himself regress.  It’s a book both heartbreaking and important. 

37. The Alchemist: The Secrets of the Immortal Nicholas Flamel

by Michael Scott

This is the first in a six-book fantasy series. This particular installment is about Nicholas Flamel, the famed alychemist. Legend has it, he did not die in 1418, as his tomb states, but that he lives on today making the elixir that keeps him immortal. But when a modern day villian sets out to steal Flamel’s magic book, two kids step in to stop him. 

38. The Westing Game

by Ellen Raskin

Millionaire Samuel W. Westing dies at the beginning of the book and the tenants in his building are named as heirs in his will. The tenants are paired off and told the first team to solve the puzzle contained in the will will inherit Westing’s entire fortune. 

39. A Monster Calls

by Patrick Ness

At the beginning of the book, protagonist Conor is fighting a number of monsters – bullies at school, a monster in his nightmares, and the grief associated with an ill family member. Then a real monster shows up and Conor is forced to face some truths within himself. 

40. Fallen Angels

by Walter Dean Myers

Perry volunteers for the Vietnam War, and he is sent to the front lines where he must face the horrors of war. 

41. When You Reach Me

by Rebecca Stead

Miranda receives mysterious notes that predict the future. So, when the notes instruct her to write a letter, she feels she must do as she is told. There is a nice mystery woven in, and some time travel to boot. 

42. Mortal Engines

by Philip Reeve

In this fascinating and creative futuristic world, cities have been turned into rolling behemoths that hunt down and tear apart other cities. This is the first book in a four-part series. There is lots of world-building and some excellent character development. 

43. The Book of Boy

by Catherine Gilbert Murdock

A protagonist known as Boy is bullied for his hump and so spends his time along in the woods communing with the animals. He is found by a man named Secondus who hires Boy as a servant. Secondus has a mission, which involves thieving ancient relics with Boy’s help. 

44. Willa of the Wood

by Robert Beatty

Willa is a night spirit, and she hates humans for the havoc the wreak on nature. She steals from humans as revenge, but one day winds up hurt, leaving her vulnerable during daylight hours. 

45. Grenade

Grenade is the story of two young men. Hideki, who is in the Japanese army during WWII, and Ray, an American soldier in Japan. The two collide with orders to kill each other and they each must make a choice. 

46. Olivia Twist

by Lorie Langdon

In this spin on Oliver Twist, Olivia is raised among Long street thieves until her uncle takes her into high society after a thieving episode goes wrong. But even though she is allowed to live a life of comfort, she cannot forget the London orphans and so sneaks away to offer her help. 

47. The Seventh Most Important Thing

by Shelley Pearsall

Arthur finds himself facing a judge after he threw a brick at a garbage truck and hit the Junk Man in the arm. The Junk Man offers to let Arthur do community service with him, who sets Arthur to combing through trash searching for a list of seven important things. 

48. The Thing About Jellyfish

by Ali Benjamin

Suzy’s best friend dies in a drowning accident, but Suzy is convinced the accident was caused by a jellyfish sting. In her grief, she retreats into her imagination and comes up with a plan to prove her theory correct. 

49. Summer of the Gypsy Moths

by Sara Pennypacker

Aunt Louise has taken in her niece Stella, and Stella loves living with her aunt. Until that is, Louise opens her home to another foster child, Angel, who Stella does not get along with. Aunt Louise dies and the two girls decide not to tell anyone. 

50. Lily and Dunkin by Donna Gephart

Lily and Dunkin are both dealing with heavy situations. Lily was born a boy but knows she’s a girl, whereas Dunkin has bipolar disorder. The two become friends and help each other cope. 

Other book lists from Amy’s bookshelf you’ll love: 

• 50 Must-Read Books for Kindergarteners
• 50 Must-Read Books For First Graders
• 50 Must-Read Books for Second Graders
• 50 Must-Read Books For Third Graders
• 50 Must-Read Books for Fourth Graders
• 50 Must-Read Books For Fifth Graders
• 50 Must-Read Books For Sixth Graders
• 50 Must-Read Books for Seventh Graders

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Best Books for 8th Graders

Uncover the best reading material for 8th graders with this list sourced from prominent book blogs and publications. these books have earned their place as top suggestions for young adults..

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8th Grade Reading List - Recommended Books

8th grade is a tough age for finding just the right book. That's because 13-14 year-olds may not yet want to read YA fiction, but they also don't want to read middle grade books about 9 year olds. These books fall in the "upper middle grade" category, and are well-suited for 8th graders. Use this as recommended books for year round reading, or as an 8th grade summer reading list!

(Note: this post contains affiliate links that earn from qualifying purchases.)

More book lists for 8th graders: 

• Books for 13 year olds
• 7th grade summer reading list
• Summer reading for rising 9th graders

Table of contents

Contemporary realism, fantasy and sci-fi, historical fiction, poetry for 8th graders.

These coming-of-age stories will appeal to middle schoolers navigating a world of changing friendship and turbulent emotions. The quest to figure out who you are is universal to all adolescents!

Ghost (Track series) by Jason Reynolds

Find it: Bookshop | Amazon

Ghost is the first book in a series of sports-themed novels by an excellent middle-grade author. Castle Crenshaw, nicknamed "Ghost" because of his talent for running away, is drawn into the local track team. Ghost, who lives with his hard-working single mother, isn't sure he fits in with the team. He's not the only one on the team that struggles, however, but with the help of supportive adults, the kids find their way. I enjoyed this book and appreciated the way Reynolds created complex individuals who struggle with difficult choices, even when they make the wrong decisions.

All Summer Long by Hope Larson

In this graphic novel, 13-year-old Bina turns to music after her parents shut down screen time. She uses music to work through her emotions about how her relationships with family and friends are changing as she gets older. A brand new graphic novel perfect for summer or when your 8th graders wishes it was summer!

Goodbye Stranger by Rebecca Stead

I liked the narrative style of this book a lot. There are three stories told from different viewpoints of kids growing up in New York City. Bridge, who had a severe accident when she was younger, now wears a cat-ears headband to school every day. She is getting to know fellow seventh grader, Shem, whose story Stead partly tells through his letters to an absent grandfather. A third, unnamed teenage narrator, spends the day trying to avoid someone and reflecting on her complicated friendships. The stories overlap and Stead excels when it comes to telling the complex emotional and social stories of middle schoolers and how complicated their lives can seem to them.

MORE : 50 Upper Middle Grade Books for 11-15 Year Olds

Beast Rider by Tony Johnston & María Elena Fontanot de Rhoads

This is was a captivating and harrowing tale of 12-year-old Manuel's journey on "the beast" from his home in a Mexican village to the United States. Migrants refer to the northbound train as "the beast" and Manuel's journey is anything but easy and safe. He encounters violence, set-backs as well as helpful and compassionate persons. When he finally makes it across the border and reunites with his older brother he tries to settle into a new way of life, but it is difficult and he must decide where he wants his home to be.

Girl of the Southern Sea by Michelle Kadarusman

In Indonesia, fourteen year old Nita wants to continue her education so she can become a writer but her family lacks the funds. Nita is determined, however. When her father falls ill, Nita takes over the food cart where he sells banana fritters to support the family. Her father, however, can't stop spending money on alcohol so Nita must assert her independence and make choices that separate herself from her father. All the while, Nita uses her talents to imagine up stories about Dewi Kadits, a Javanese princess in traditional folklore. This was a wonderful book that will take readers to a part of the world they don't frequently have the opportunity to visit in literature.

Alone by Megan E. Freeman

Find it: Amazon | Bookshop

Maddie and her friends planned to meet for a sleepover. Her friends never show up and in the morning, Maddie finds her town has been entirely abandoned. Unable to communicate with anyone Maddie must learn to survive on her own. At first, there is running water and electricity, but when that goes she teaches herself to drive, finds supplies in neighboring homes and has only a dog for a companion. A suspenseful page-turner!

Middle School: The Worst Years of My Life by James Patterson and Chris Tebbetts

My son has enjoyed James Patterson's middle grade books. True, they are not the most intellectually challenging books, but not every book an 8th grader reads needs to address existential questions. This is Patterson's first middle grade novel and he has many more for kids who want a light and funny read that still addresses all the difficulties, insecurities, ups and downs of the middle school years.

MORE: Books for 12 year olds

Young tees love to indulge in a little fantasy reading! Add these books to your 8th grader's reading list.

Star Splitter by Matthew J. Kirby

Ever since I read Kirby's middle grade mystery, Icefall ( which I've included on a billion book lists in an effort to get it into the hands of your kids ), I have been a fan of his books. If your teen is a fan of sci-fi, this is the novel to give to them! Jessica Mathers is teleported via a device that will remind Star Trek fans of the transporter ( with an explanation of how it works that I was not expecting! ) to a distant mission involving a post-extinction world. However, upon arrival she encounters a replica of herself and is faced with a bizarre myster. The narration alternates between the two Jessicas as she tries to unravel what happened.

Time Traveling with a Hamster by Ross Welford

In this, one of the few children's books with a British Indian protagonist, Al Chaudhury gets a letter and a hamster from his deceased father. The letter tells him to find his father's time travel machine and go back in time to avert a disaster. A fun and suspenseful read.

MORE: Time Travel Books

Frogkisser! by Garth Nix

This is a great book for fantasy fans who want an advanced fairy tale read by don't get want the story lines bogged down in romance. Princess Anya must go on a quest to find the ingredients to a Transmorgification Reversal Lip Balm as well as escape the devious plans of her stepfather, Duke Rikard. Her talking dog, Ardent, accompanies her on her adventure, which is full of twists, turns, curious and fascinating characters and lots of laughs. It is not a retelling of any one specific fairy tale, but the book includes references to many familiar stories.

The Mark of the Thief (trilogy) by Jennifer A Nielsen

This incredibly thrilling trilogy is packed full of action and twists behind every corner. Nic and his sister are slaves in mines just outside of Ancient Rome. When Nic discovers an ancient bulla that once belonged to Julius Caesar, the bulla infuses him with a power. He becomes both a target and a pawn in a political conspiracy.

MORE: Sci-Fi and Fantasy Graphic Novels

The Shadow Cipher (series) by Laura Ruby

In this elaborate story, three friends band together in New York City to solve a cipher that connects their apartment building to a centuries-old mystery of how the city was conceived. This is a hefty, compelling book with stellar writing, and complex, well-rounded characters.

The Hero and the Crown (series) by Robin McKinley

McKinley has created a richly detailed fantasy world with well-developed and complex characters. Aerin, the king of Damar's daughter is feared because of her mother and her unusual red-hair. But Aerin decides not to let others decide her destiny. An extremely rewarding read.

MORE: Books for Kids who like The Hunger Games

I've purposely chosen historical novels for this 8th grade reading list which I think will appeal to kids who think they hate historical fiction!

Dodger Boy by Sarah Ellis

I loved this short novel! In 1970s Vancouver 13-year-old Charlotte is learning how navigate the life of a teenager. Her family are Quakers and practice non-violence so it is only natural for them to help out Tom Ed, a young Texan escaping the Vietnam War draft.  I love the conversations Tom Ed and Charlotte have about everything from politics, civil rights, women’s lib and civil disobedience. Meanwhile, Charlotte is working on an important speech that she has to give when her best friend becomes unavailable. This is an excellent book and as you can imagine, is a conversation starter.

Echo by Pam Muñoz Ryan

This masterful novel is told in several parts that cross historical and cultural boundaries. A single harmonica is thread that binds three narratives about children in trouble. Friedrich dreams of being a conductor, but lives in Hitler's Germany. Mike Flannery is an orphan in Depression Era Pennsylvania and Ivy Lopez's family works as migrant laborers. Music is such an integral part of the story and so I also recommend the audiobook format which is absolutely stellar .

Just a Hat by S. Khubiar

Joseph Nissan lives in small town Texas in 1979. His family, immigrants from Revolution-era Iran, are also the only Jewish family in town. Joseph's good friends are his Tejano neighbors and together they get into all kinds of mischief. When he joins the football team, Joseph finds a way to channel the frustration he feels, but it also provides a way for him to connect with others and forge a path for himself. This may have a historical setting, but today's kids will absolutely relate to Joseph's emotional journey.

Hattie Big Sky (series) Kirby Larson

Find it: Amazon

In 1918, 16-year-old Hattie, an orphan, travels to Iowa, determined to make her recently deceased uncle's homestead in Montana her own. But, she must tame the land in a year in order to keep it as her own. The narration is coupled with short articles that Hattie writes to a newspaper about her experiences and letters she writes to her friend Charlie, who is at war in France. Hattie's life is hard and she relies on her neighbors to help her out, but there are also fellow homesteaders who are not so supportive. This is a fantastic book and a good choice for advanced readers.

Freewater by Amina Luqman-Dawson

In this enthralling story, twelve-year-old Homer escapes the plantation where he is enslaved with his mother and sister. Lost and alone in the swamp, he is rescued by Suleman and taken to the maroon community of Freewater in the Great Dismal Swamp. Although he finds connection with the others in Freewater and learns about survival in the difficult landscape, he is haunted by the need to return to the plantation and free his mother and sister.

The Midwife's Apprentice by Karen Cushman

In case you're new here, I love Cushman's books! Brat, who is a 13-ish year old orphaned, homeless girl is taken on as a midwife's apprentice. She proves to be a speedy learner and a hard worker but when she makes a mistake her embarrassment is such that she runs away. The resulting adventure and her eventual return is a page-turner that even kids who think they hate history will revel in. It is not a long novel and so is good for advanced readers and reluctant readers alike.

MORE: Historical Fiction with Strong Girl Protagonists

The Inquisitor's Tale: Or, the Three Magical Children and Their Holy Dog by Adam Gidwitz

Multiple narrators describe the adventures of several children and their ( potentially ) holy dog. This book is an amazing mix of morality tale and puzzling mystery. Jeanne with her psychic visions, Willian, a biracial Muslim monk with superhuman skills, and Jacob, a Jewish fleeing his destroyed village who has healing powers come together for an adventure that enriches their lives, as well as the lives of the readers.

MORE:   Thrilling Historical Fiction for Kids

Did you think an 8th grade reading list could be complete without poetry? Think again!

Technically, It's Not My Fault: Concrete Poems by John Grandits

In Grandits' collection, an 11-year-old boy narrates the poems which touch on topics like pizza, sisters, school, imaginative roller coasters and all manner of humorous musings. Also check out his poems in the book, Blue Lipstick: Concrete Poem s , which are narrated from the perspective of a 15 year old high school girl.

Poems to See By: A Comic Artist Interprets Great Poetry by Julian Peters

I really loved this book! While many of the poems are appropriate for younger kids, I think the book as a whole will be better appreciated by teens and adults. The volume includes a wide variety of poetry. There is everything from Carl Sandberg to Maya Angelou to W.B. Yeats. Each poem is illustrated in a distinct style, different from the others. Readers will be fascinated and will surely discover new insights into familiar poems as well as enjoying new-to-them poems. Following each graphic take on the poem, is the original text.

MORE: Poetry for Middle Schoolers

Reader Interactions

Rachel says

May 07, 2018 at 1:37 pm

You hit the nail on the head with this: " Rising 8th graders may not yet want to read YA fiction, but they also don’t want to read middle grade books about 10 and 11 year olds." This is my problem with my rising 8th grader, too. She also doesn't like fantasy or anything "scary", which limits the choices further. She has read many but not all of the realistic fiction on this list and enjoyed them so I'll have to check out the others.

Beth Schmelzer says

May 08, 2018 at 8:48 am

I love your list, Erika. So glad you included female protagonists for your son. Look into GB author Robin Stevens, more Kirby Larson and my new friend Cindy Cavanaugh 's "Sydney MacKenzie Knocks 'Em Dead" about a valley girl from .CA who moved to a cemetery! It just won the Agatha award for best children and YA mystery! My grandson of almost 13 loves another nominee: "The World's Greatest Detective." I highlighted many mysteries on my blog post. Beth

May 08, 2018 at 11:27 am

Thanks for the recommendations, Beth!

May 08, 2018 at 7:27 pm

Are you familiar with the book Shadow Spinner by Susan Fletcher, The Magic Thief series by Sarah Prineas (and her Summerland series), plus Sea of Trolls by Nancy Farmer (the 2nd and 3rd books in the series are peculiar, but the first book is fabulous). Another great series starts with Troll Fell by Katherine Langrish, and my 14 y.o. adores the Tapestry series by Henry H. Neff.

Phoebe says

May 09, 2018 at 8:55 am

I am 13 years old going into 8th grade and I cannot wait to read all of these books which seem like they will be perfect summer reads! Thank you!

Nicole says

December 03, 2018 at 12:55 pm

Thanks for the great list! I'm so glad you're continuing to recommend books, even though your kids are getting to the age where they're probably selecting most of their books themselves.

Patricia Clepper says

June 12, 2021 at 3:01 am

I have a 13 year old daughter I adopted when she was a baby. She knows her sister's and brothers and her birth mother and dad. I now have cancer and I know she is struggling with how to interact with them Plus understand my situation. She doesn't want me to choose her books so if can compile a list for her that would be great. I see her struggling with communicating and trying to fit in. Thank you in advance.

January 29, 2022 at 9:36 am

Greetings from an avid reader/retired teacher/grandmother. I taught primary grades for 18 years & middle school lit for 16 years but I feel that middle school is where you make adult readers for life. The Hunger Game series appeals to both genders and presents important issues. An older book that my grandson loved, as did my students, is Ender's Game. Marsha Forchuk Skrychuk's series that begins with Making Bombs for Hitler is excellent. Jerry Craft has some wonderful, timely graphic novels out too. Thanks for this great website!

January 31, 2022 at 1:06 pm

Thanks for sharing you suggestions!

September 28, 2022 at 10:53 pm

Thank you so much for these lists! They help a lot and now I am finally able to get some good books. I am in 8th Grade and I'm 13, by the way! It's really hard for me to find good books nowadays. Thank you so much, again!

marjorie williams says

January 13, 2023 at 9:23 am

requested 8th grade reading list and provided email but the information was never sent.

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83 Books For 8th Graders: Novel, Fiction, Non-Fiction, Drama, Narratives, And More

March 8, 2024 //  by  Lauren Du Plessis

It’s no secret that trying to motivate middle school students to read can be a tough challenge, even for the most experienced teacher. Thankfully, our collection of 83 carefully curated books for 8th graders will captivate even your most reluctant readers! These high-interest choices include everything from the classics to cozy mysteries and globe-trekking adventure stories. Your students are sure to find a winner! Read on to find the next 8th grade ‘bestseller’ for your classroom library!

1. The Boy in the Striped Pajamas by John Boyne

This powerful novel is reminiscent of The Diary of Anne Frank and grapples with the same tough issues. Despite the serious subject matter, your eighth graders will enjoy getting to know two young boys who become the most unsuspecting of friends in this moving novel set during the Holocaust. With a devastating end, this truly is a remarkably written book.

2. A Long Walk to Water by Linda Sue Park

A Long Walk to Water illustrates the lives of two Sudanese children. The novel sees Nya and Salva face many dangers in a feat to improve their lives and the lives of those around them. Your students will benefit from thought-provoking discussions that are sure to arise from this gripping story.

3. The Book Thief by Markus Zusak

Set in Nazi Germany, your kiddies will learn how Liesel Meminger, a foster child discovers a blissful world between the spines of books – away from constant bombing raids. Reading becomes her escape, and students will learn about its power to transport readers like Liesel to magical worlds.

4. The Giver by Lois Lowry

Your readers will be captivated by twelve-year-old Jonas who has his life turned upside down when he receives his life assignment – taking on the role of The Giver. After the world’s memories have been bestowed upon him, Jonas soon learns that his seemingly ideal world isn’t as wonderful as he once thought.

5. Shadow Jumper by J.M. Forster

For your eighth graders who love a mystery adventure story, Shadow Jumper is sure to be a winner! Jack Phillips is on a mission to find his missing scientist father, but will his rare allergic condition interfere with his search? Jump into the action to find out! 

6. The Outsiders by S.E. Hinton

The Outsiders is a powerful coming-of-age classic that is sure to be relatable to your 8th graders! Ponyboy and his gang of close-knit friends stand up to a gang of snooty rich kids in this timeless tale about bravery and friendship.

7. The Finest Hours by Michael J. Tougias & Casey Sherman

The true story of a shipwreck and dramatic rescue in The Finest Hours will captivate your non-fiction buffs! Explore the heart-rending tale of a shipwreck and the four brave men who managed to save the stranded sailors. Your students will also love comparing the book and movie versions of this harrowing story!

8. Long Way Down by Jason Reynolds

Long Way Down is the gripping story of fifteen-year-old Will who is grappling with the murder of his brother. This is a good choice for your readers ready to tackle the serious issue of gun violence. Journey with Will as he considers whether or not to avenge his brother’s death.

9. The Cruel Prince by Holly Black

The Cruel Prince is a wondrous book about a mortal girl who finds herself entangled in the tribulations of a mysterious and enchanted land, the High Court of Faerie. Your eighth graders will love following Jude as she battles the wicked Prince Cardan and fights to save her sisters.

10. I Am Not Your Perfect Mexican Daughter by Erika L. Sánchez

This New York Times Bestseller and National Book Award Finalist will grab the attention of your kids who enjoy stories about complex characters. After losing her seemingly perfect older sister, rambunctious Julia learns to navigate life outside of her sister’s shadow – all while uncovering shocking secrets about her sister’s past.

11. We’ll Always Have Summer by Jenny Han

The final book in ‘The Summer I Turned Pretty’ trilogy, We’ll Always Have Summer, continues the theme of young love and is perfect for eighth graders who enjoy a romantic read.  Will Conrad have the courage to tell Belly his feelings, or will he lose her to Jeremiah forever?

12. You Have a Match by Emma Lord

Your readers will love this wild ride with Abby who signs up for a DNA service and discovers that she has an Instagram-famous sister that she knew nothing about! Eager to know more, Abby decides to meet her sister, Savannah, at camp and uncover the secret of Savannah’s adoption.

13. We Are Not From Here by Jenny Torres Sanchez

The touching stories in We Are Not from Here are inspired by the experiences of migrants. Your readers ready for more serious issues will enjoy following the journey of three teens who escape the dangers of their hometowns only to face more challenges on their way to the US-Mexico border.

14. I’ll Give You the Sun by Jandy Nelson

For your eighth-grade readers who love stories that pull on the heartstrings, I’ll Give You the Sun is a humorous yet tear-jerking read. It follows the tale of two twins, Jude and Noah, who were once extremely close, but who have now been torn apart because of an unsuspected disaster.

15. Homecoming by Cynthia Voigt

Have your readers embark on the journey of a lifetime with the four Tillerman children after their mother abandons them in a Connecticut parking lot. Follow the children as they try to make their way to their Great Aunt Cilla’s house, but will they make it?

16. House of Hollow by Krystal Sutherland

For your readers who love the supernatural, this magical read stars the uniquely beautiful seventeen-year-old, Iris, who yearns to belong. When her sister, Grey, mysteriously goes missing, Iris and her other sister, Vivi, discover the secrets of their past and learn that not everything is as it seems.

17. Echo by Pam Muñoz Ryan

Echo is a well-crafted and heart-warming read that revolves around a harmonica, a prophecy, and a long-standing promise. Let your kiddos dive into this tale of finding friendship, overcoming life’s challenges, and pursuing your rightful destiny.

18. The Maze Runner by James Dashner

Your eighth-grade readers looking for adventure will love this heart-racing read about a group of memory-wiped strangers who must escape from the center of an ever-changing maze. Their only hope for survival is to devise a plan of escape after receiving a message that reads, ‘Remember. Survive. Run’. 

19. The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins

This gripping read inspired by a dystopian-like world is sure to be a hit with your class! The Hunger Games is an annual event held in a metropolis of wealth called the Capitol of Panem-. Twelve representatives from outlying districts fight to the death until only one victor remains.

20. Downriver by Will Hobbs

If your eighth graders love wild adventure stories, this read is sure to deliver! At Discovery Unlimited, an outdoor education program, seven teenagers borrow the company’s rafting gear and face nerve-wracking consequences as they make their way downriver and through the Grand Canyon. 

21. Anne Frank: The Diary of a Young Girl: The Definitive Edition by Anne Frank

For more serious eighth graders, The Diary of a Young Girl is Anne Frank’s account of living in a secret annex while hiding from the Gestapo. For two years, Anne and her family faced the fear of being found and the challenges of hunger and living so closely together.

22. A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L’Engle

Your kids will continue to be enthralled by this timeless classic about siblings on a quest to find their missing scientist father. Meg Murry and her brother Charles Wallace are joined by the most popular boy in high school as they explore new worlds and uncover their father’s whereabouts! 

23. The Breadwinner by Deborah Ellis

Let your readers discover the courage of 11-year-old Parvana in this story set during Taliban rule in Kabul, Afghanistan.  After her father is forced to stop working, Parvana saves her family by disguising herself as a boy so that she can work and become the family’s breadwinner! 

24. All the Bright Places by Jennifer Niven

All the Bright Places will remind your eighth graders of the beauty of life. This book tells the story of the chance encounter of two teenagers who meet on the ledge of a tower. Despite different outlooks on life, they fall in love while marveling at the adventure of life.

25. A Cuban Girl’s Guide to Tea and Tomorrow by Laura Taylor Namey

Send your readers on a transatlantic journey with this heartwarming read! When nothing goes right, Lila’s parents send her off to live in Winchester, England. She meets a teashop clerk named Orion Maxwell and begins to realize England might not be too bad after all. 

26. You Should See Me in a Crown by Leah Johnson

Striving to be accepted to the prestigious college of Pennington, there isn’t anything Liz Lighty won’t do to make her dream come true. In need of financial aid, she decides to run for prom queen in hopes of landing her school’s scholarship. Your readers will enjoy this spirited protagonist!  

27. Felix Ever After by Kacen Callender

Felix Ever After is a beautiful read about Felix and his journey to self-discovery and authentic identity. This coming-of-age story has a strong message that will inspire your eighth-grade readers to take a stand for themselves and never accept anything less than they deserve!

28. They Both Die at the End by Adam Silvera

With this title, your students are guaranteed to be curious! Mateo and Rufus wake up only to be told they only have one day to live. The author narrates a special day for these two strangers- who bond over trying to live their final 24 hours to the fullest!

29. Cemetery Boys by Aiden Thomas

Introduce your kids to Yadriel, a transgender high school student. Yadriel accidentally summons his ghost of a cousin, Julien, for help to share his true gender with his parents. As time goes on, the cousins become close, and eventually, Yadriel doesn’t want his cousin to leave.

30. The Henna Wars by Adiba Jaigirdar

With themes of friendship, identity, and courage, this book is sure to strike a chord with your kiddos. Flávia and Nishat must navigate their relationship in a way like never before. Nishat risks not being accepted by her family, but she must make a choice about whether to share her true feelings for Flávia.

31. Not My Problem by Ciara Smyth

Not My Problem will make your readers pause and consider their interactions with and influence on others. In this brilliant coming-of-age novel, Aideen helps fellow classmates solve their personal issues in unwitting ways, but she struggles to solve any of her own problems! 

32. The Voting Booth by Brandy Colbert

This novel is the perfect choice for your eighth graders who are passionate about social justice! When Duke Crenshaw is turned away at the voting booth, Marva Sheridan makes it her mission to ensure that Duke’s right to vote is upheld. On a path to help shape democracy, Duke and Marva find unexpected love.

33. Juliet Takes a Breath by Gabby Rivera

This is a novel that was written for your students who like to live life a little on the wild side! Juliet feels more alive and free than ever. After she comes out to her parents, she sets off for a summer of motorcycling, love, and partying while also finding a place for herself in the world.

34. Only Mostly Devastated by Sophie Gonzales

Told with humor, Only Mostly Devastated is a book for your eighth graders who would enjoy a story about a boy-meets-boy teenage romance. Will and Ollie must navigate the shaky waters of their relationship and learn to trust again. They’re sure to love this super relatable tale about the trials and tribulations of teenage life!

35. Perfect on Paper by Sophie Gonzales

Your students will love the drama of this super enjoyable read. Darcy secretly offers love advice to her classmates until her anonymity is threatened when the grade’s jock catches her collecting letters from a locker! She is then forced into helping him get back together with his girlfriend.

36. We Are Not Free by Traci Chee

This award-winning read will appeal to your readers interested in history and social justice. After their lives are forever changed by the mass U.S. incarcerations of World War II, fourteen teenagers rally together in a fight against injustice and blatant racism. In doing so, the teens become closer than ever as they create a community for themselves.

37. Hot Dog Girl by Jennifer Dugan

Hot Dog Girl spans both humor and romance and is sure to delight your readers! Elouise works as a hot dog girl at her local fair and finds herself pining over Nick the pirate. The only problem is that Nick has a girlfriend and hardly seems to notice poor Elouise!

38. With the Fire on High by Elizabeth Acevedo

This novel from acclaimed author Elizabeth Acevedo belongs in your eighth-grade library! Acevedo tells the story of a teenager who reclaims her power after having a child during her freshman year. Follow Emoni as she graduates, discovers a new passion for cooking, and becomes a chef!

39. The Poet X by Elizabeth Acevedo

Your kiddies are sure to relate to teenager, Xiomara, who has so much to get off her chest, but has no way to vent! To find a creative outlet, she decides to join the school’s poetry society but must keep this a secret from her rather strict Mami.

40. Internment by Samira Ahmed

Your readers will be intrigued and inspired by courageous seventeen-year-old Layla Amin who is forced into a Muslim-American internment camp with her parents. In a bid to fight for her freedom, she leads a revolt against the guards and the camp director.

41. Don’t Ask Me Where I’m From by Jennifer De Leon

Follow Liliana as she fights to stay true to herself amidst a world of wealthy privilege! Proud of her LatinX heritage, Liliana must be courageous as she grapples with the divide between her new suburban high school and the inner-city home of her Boston neighborhood. Your class will be rooting for her the whole way through this great read!

42. Let Me Hear a Rhyme by Tiffany D. Jackson

Transport your readers to 1998 Brooklyn! In this fantastic story, three teens plan to promote the rap music of their deceased friend by pretending he’s still alive. How long can this rambunctious group keep up their lie when tensions start brewing and secrets begin to be revealed?

43. Can’t Take That Away by Steven Salvatore

Passionate readers who fiercely support equal rights will find a friend in Carey Parker, the protagonist at the center of this tender yet powerful novel. Fed up with the discrimination faced at high school, this queer teen stands up for what is right and invites others to do the same!

44. The Sky Blues by Robbie Couch

Sky Baker plans to ask his crush, Ali, to prom in just 30 days at the annual beach party! Sky’s plans are ruined when a homophobic hacker releases an email detailing his plan. Your techies will be hooked as the next 30 days quickly turn into a mission to expose the hacker.

45. It Goes Like This by Miel Moreland

Your students will relate to the trials of friendship explored in this fantastic novel. Members of a queer pop band formed in middle school must reconcile with the past when a tragic storm in their hometown brings them together for one last show. Find out if their friendship will stand the test of time! 

46. Love & Other Natural Disasters by Misa Sugiura

Your eighth-grade rom-com fans will enjoy Love & Other Natural Disasters . In this queer romance, Nozomi is eager to pose as the girlfriend of gorgeous Willow. But not everything goes according to plan in this plot to make Willow’s ex jealous when Nozomi finds herself falling unexpectedly in love.

47. The Fascinators by Andrew Eliopulos

The Fascinators is sure to charm your kiddos with its magical plot! Despite living in a place that shuns magic, Sam, Delia, and James bond over their participation in the school’s magic club, but soon find that even magic can’t fix the obstacles they are about to face!  

48. House in the Cerulean Sea by T.J. Klune

Lovers of adventure stories will enjoy this fascinating tale about Linus, the caretaker of an orphanage who is summoned on a mission that will take him to a magical island. Your students will enjoy the twists and turns of Linus’s journey and appreciate the messages this novel offers its readers. 

49. The Marvelous by Claire Kann

Your gamers and readers alike will be thrilled by The Marvelous ! They’ll follow six teenagers who are gathered together by famed heiress, Jewel, in a competition to win a life-changing prize. The players quickly learn that more than money is at stake as they go head to head in a game spanning Jewel’s entire estate!

50. Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe by Benjamin Alire Sáenz

Your readers who are ready to tackle themes of identity, friendship, and family will soak up the beautiful story of Aristotle and Dante. These two lonely boys form an unforgettable friendship after meeting at a public swimming pool. This tale eloquently depicts the importance of friendship in discovering your own self.

51. Rules For Being a Girl by Candace Bushnell & Katie Cotugno

This empowering tale is all about Marin who reclaims her power after being sexually assaulted by her English teacher. When no one believes her story, she decides to take it to the school newspaper – an act that starts an inspiring feminist club! This read is perfect for your kids who are ready for a more sophisticated story.

52. The Inexplicable Logic of My Life by Benjamin Alire Sáenz

Sal, once a confident, secure teenager, is suddenly questioning everything about life, his identity, and his place in the world. Your students will connect with relatable, humorous, and comforting characters while journeying with Sal as he navigates the universal questions of life. 

53. The Infinite Noise by Lauren Shippen

Your eighth graders will be fascinated by star running back Caleb’s plight to navigate a  special ability allowing him to be extremely empathetic. Caleb’s empathy leads to a new friendship with his classmate, Adam, and the realization that his new ability to connect with others might also be dangerous. 

54. Me, Frida, and the Secret of the Peacock Ring by Angela Cervantes

Have your kiddies join Paloma Marquez on her search to connect with her late father and his Mexican roots. While traveling in Mexico, she relives her father’s memory and helps two siblings hunt for Frida Kahlo’s missing ring – a find that could lead to a reward and the adoration of all of Mexico!

55. Greenglass House by Kate Milford

This Edgar Award for Best Juvenile Mystery winner is perfect for your readers who love a cozy mystery. On a wintry night, Milo, the inn owner’s son, greets the arrival of guests who hold secrets about Greenglass House’s past. The story ends with a twist that is sure to leave your kiddos wanting more!

56. When You Trap a Tiger by Tae Keller

When Lily moves in with her sick grandmother, the family’s Korean folktales come to life. The magical tigers of the stories have a history with Lily’s grandmother and demand retribution for her past actions. Will Lily make a deal with the tiger or find another way to right the wrongs of the past? Let your 8th graders read to find out!

57 . Kira-Kira by Cynthia Kadohata

Kira-Kira is an excellent choice for drama lovers. Readers follow Katie Tekeshima and her sister, Lynn, as they move from a Japanese community in Iowa to the unfamiliar Deep South of Georgia. Your readers will be hooked as the family navigates difficulties and finds hope in the future through the idea of ‘glittering’ or kira-kira.  

58. Ancestor Approved: Intertribal Stories for Kids by Cynthia Leitich Smith

Your kiddos will love this book all about the strength of community and Native pride. This collection of unique stories highlights the experiences of young Native people from the perspective of new and established First Nation writers. The stories take root at a large Michigan powwow where Native families gather to celebrate their heritage and honor their traditions. 

59. No Fixed Address by Susin Nielsen

Dive into this powerful story about poverty, homelessness, and family life with your class. No Fixed Address is a story about Felix, a teenager living out of a car with his mom who enters a game show competition to win a cash prize. This novel is perfect for a read-aloud that is guaranteed to lead to rich discussions.

60. Girl of the Southern Sea by Michelle Kadarusman

Girl of the Southern Sea is the choice for those longing for an adventurous and faraway setting. Your readers will meet Nia who dreams of a life beyond the slums of Jakarta. She devises a plan to change her circumstances, but how will she reach her dreams while facing ongoing obstacles? 

61. As Long as the Lemon Trees Grow by Zoulfa Katouh

This novel is a moving story about a teenager living and working in war-torn Syria. Her choice of whether to stay or flee for a new chance at life elsewhere is made all the more difficult when Khawf – the physical manifestation of her fears – adds pressure to her decision.

62. The Bridge Home by Padma Venkatraman

Let your students follow the inspirational story of sisters, Viji and Rukuu, who escape from an abusive father. While their new, temporary home under a bridge is not easy, it provides the sisters with new relationships, independence, and the confidence that they can care for themselves and each other.

63. Julie of the Wolves by Jean Craighead George

When Julie’s family life becomes untenable, she leaves her Alaskan village in search of better things. However, when she becomes lost in the icy tundra, she has to rely on a curious wolf pack to survive. Julie of the Wolves is an excellent addition to your middle school classroom for your readers who love survival stories!

64. Out of My Mind by Sharon M. Draper

Out of My Mind is a classic coming-of-age story that is sure to resonate with your kiddies. They’ll follow the story of a brilliant young girl with a photographic memory who is also navigating preteen life with cerebral palsy. Her world dramatically changes when she acquires a machine that helps her express her complex thoughts and feelings to her family and friends.

65. Counting by 7s by Holly Goldberg Sloan

Have your more serious readers, check out Counting by 7s ! It’s an emotional but uplifting read about a young girl who quiets her anxious mind through routines like counting by 7s. When she loses her parents, she must face her fears and learn to form connections with others.

66. Look Both Ways by Jason Reynolds

Look Both Ways consists of ten short stories that diverge to detail the lives of individual teenagers and converge again upon a sudden shared experience (a falling school bus!). Add this novel to your eighth-grade reading list to inject a little humor into your reading time!

67. Goodbye Stranger by Rebecca Stead

Let your kids lose themselves in this bestselling commentary on the growing pains of preteen friendship. Bridge, Emily, and Tab must learn to navigate the new stresses of seventh grade, with personal traumas, budding romances, and strained loyalties that are all battling to take precedence over their friendship.

68. Queen of the Tiles by Hanna Alkaf

Who knew Scrabble could be this tense? In this teen thriller that’s centered around a Scrabble competition, Najwa Bakri is mourning the death of her best friend. But when her friend’s Instagram suddenly begins posting again, Najwa begins to wonder if her friend’s death may not have been an accident.

69. A Break with Charity: A Story about the Salem Witch Trials by Ann Rinaldi

This is the perfect choice for your historical fiction lovers! A Break with Charity is a compelling read about the time of the Salem Witch Trials. The main character, Susanna, has to determine how to protect her own family from the lies and accusations being thrown around. It’s a “must-have” for your eighth-grade reading list!

70. The Rig by Joe Ducie

Will is a highly intelligent but troubled young man whose criminal activities have landed him on the Rig, a high-security facility that is supposedly impossible to escape. Supernatural elements soon come into play in this science fiction book as the true nature of the prison is revealed. Your 8th graders will love this interesting and mysterious read!

71. A Series of Unfortunate Events by Lemony Snicket

This series may not be the most challenging for your 8th graders, but A Series of Unfortunate Events is a captivating tale certain to pique the interest of even the most reluctant readers. Follow the unlucky adventures of three orphaned siblings as they search for answers about their parents’ untimely and suspicious deaths. 

72. Mortal Instruments by Cassandra Clare

Jump into these thrilling fantasy offerings from Cassandra Clare! In this gripping series, Clary enters an alternate world of mythical creatures in order to find her missing mom. She’s soon pulled deep into the drama of this mysterious place, linking up with the warrior Shadowhunters and fighting against demons who want her eliminated.

73. The Fifth Wave by Rick Yancey

Introduce your kiddos to Cassie, in this dystopian novel of survival. She is one of the few remaining humans on planet Earth after apocalyptic waves of destruction wreak havoc on Earth and dangerous beings arrive to wipe out humanity. When she meets Evan, another survivor, she must decide whether to take a new chance at life by learning to trust others again.

74. Mistborn by Brandon Sanderson

The first book in a fantasy trilogy follows the escapades of Kelsier, a rebel who fights against a tyrannical ruler in a kingdom perpetually full of ash. Magical metals, compelling characters, and vivid imagery make this novel and series a favorite among YA fantasy readers. They’ll love the fact that there are another two books waiting for them once they’ve finished this first read!

75. The Selection by Kiera Cass

This YA romance series follows the Bachelor-esque “Selection,” where 35 girls compete for a chance at love with Prince Maxon. Contestant America, however, wishes that she had never been selected; that is until she actually meets the prince! This dramatic series is perfect for any of your readers who love a bit of fairy tale and romance!

76. Entwined by Heather Dixon

Based on Grimm’s Fairytale of the “Twelve Dancing Princesses,” Entwined follows Azalea, whose family tragedy spurs a deal with the mysterious Keeper. When Keeper’s promise turns out to be a trap, Azalea must find a way to save her family. This is perfect for your 8th graders who love fantasy!

77. Uglies by Scott Westerfeld

Use this post-apocalyptic series to explore themes of vanity and loyalty with your class. Tally is set to undergo a mandatory surgery to turn her into a “Pretty” on her 16th birthday when she discovers that there is more behind the surgery than aesthetics.

78. Tuck Everlasting by Natalie Babbit

Tuck Everlasting is definitely one to add to your middle-grade book lists! Winnie must decide whether to live life as a mere mortal or join the Tucks, who have found immortality in a magical nearby spring. This heartwarming tale is sure to be one that your kids will love!

79. Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen

Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice will stretch your advanced readers’ minds by exposing them to the twists and turns of classic literature. This novel also provides an opportunity for your kiddos to compare a classic version of Elizabeth and Darcy’s epic love story with contemporary retellings. 

80. Slider by Pete Hautman

Slider is a coming-of-age story about David, a 14-year-old caught in a serious bind! When an accidental credit card charge sets in motion a series of events involving a competitive eating competition, he must win the grand prize. This humorous and touching novel will delight your readers.  

81. A First Time for Everything by Dan Santat

Your class will love this sweet novel detailing the life and middle school trials of Dan, an awkward but quintessential ‘good kid’, that is based on the author’s own experiences. Thrust from his comfortable family life to a class trip to Europe where he is on his own, Dan experiences several life-changing “firsts”. 

82. A Tree Grows in Brooklyn

A Tree Grows in Brooklyn is a delightful and beautifully written story about a family’s day-to-day life in a NYC borough. From the beginning of this novel and through every dramatic turn, Francie’s determination and wit make her a lovable character that your readers will champion.

83. Anne of Green Gables

Anne of Green Gables is a timeless classic, yet even your contemporary readers will adore the spunk and tenacity of the protagonist, Anne. On a deeper level, this book explores the themes of belonging, friendship, and the quest to find oneself amidst the throes of young adulthood. 

Instill a love for reading in your 8th grade students by encouraging independent reading. Reading allows children to learn about the experiences of others and therefore foster better empathy. Furthermore, they gain valuable knowledge and expand their vocabulary as well as explore more imaginative and creative thought patterns.

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The Best Books for Eighth Graders

Eighth grade readers have a lot to gain through books, both academically and in their personal development. Thought-provoking titles at this age will help develop your reader’s abstract thinking; they’ll approach complex moral issues and discover diverse perspectives they might not typically encounter. 

Other forms of entertainment may offer a window to the world, but books reign supreme when it comes to challenging eighth graders to think critically. The best titles don’t just entertain—they support adolescents in their path to forming personal viewpoints. Readers can synthesize information found in fiction and nonfiction stories and apply it to real-life situations, while expanding their empathy and understanding of the world around them. 

Middle grade fiction, activity books, graphic novels, and young adult fiction can all be part of a balanced eighth grade reading diet. To lead your reader towards the most enriching stories, Literati has named its top picks. Here are a few of the best titles for your eighth grade reader:

By Jarod Shusterman and Neal Shusterman

In this captivating survival story, one teen must make crucial decisions for her family in order to survive a devastating drought. Readers won’t be able to take their eyes off of this vivid, near-future dystopia as they’re challenged to understand the reasoning and motivation behind certain characters’ reactions. Full of tension and pulse-pounding suspense, Dry is a distressing reminder of our current climate reality and a gripping “what if” exercise for your eighth grader.

Burn After Writing Teen

By Rhiannon Shove

The made-for-teens edition of Rhiannon Shove’s ultra-engaging personal journal, Burn After Writing , will get your eighth grader thinking about big questions and looking inward for answers. The fun, thought-provoking prompts throughout this book provide an outlet for some complicated thinking—the kind that eighth graders aren’t always sure how to approach. Journaling is a fantastic form of self-care, but sitting down in front of a blank page can be a little daunting (even for adults). This book provides the perfect safe space for teens—unlike that math test next period, there are no wrong answers here!

Blood Metal Bone

By Lindsay Cummings

After being wrongly accused of her brother’s murder, Sonara gets a second chance at uncovering the truth. A clever blend of sci-fi and fantasy elements allows readers to get in touch with more specific genre preferences. With an expansive world to explore and a wide cast of characters, your eighth grader’s memory and comprehension will be adequately challenged, while they stay completely immersed in a total page-turner.

Knowledge Genius! A Quiz Encyclopedia to Boost Your Brain

by DK Publishing

Do you have a future Jeopardy contestant on your hands? You might after you get this fact-packed book in front of them. First, readers will dive into a whole slew of “general knowledge” subjects. Then, they can quiz themselves and find out just how much they’ve learned! Other than the obvious educational value of a brain-boosting encyclopedia, the self-testing format found in this book is incredibly impactful. When students quiz themselves on information, they’re more likely to encode it deeply and recall it later. That’s right—this book can actually help teach your eighth grader how to study effectively!

By Amanada Patnitch

Survival stories are popular among eighth and ninth graders as readers can jump into super high-stakes scenarios, relate to teen characters, and watch them grow into heroic versions of themselves. In Gone Dark , the country’s power grid is suddenly compromised, leaving Zara to make an impossible choice in order to survive. Eighth graders will find a strong message about resilience and facing one’s past with confidence while following along for the adventure.

The best books for eighth graders feature captivating plots, immersive settings, and challenges that feel relevant to the eighth grade experience. Even if your reader chooses to escape into a fantasy world, the best books will encourage them to think deeply and find lessons they can bring back to reality.

Sometimes, finding those perfect titles is easier said than done: all eighth graders are different, after all. No matter what kind of story excites your reader—even if they don’t know it yet—Literati is here to help them build reading habits that stick. 

When you join Literati book clubs, your reader will receive a personalized box of books curated just for them. They’ll go deeper into their existing interests, and find new ones, and solidify a passion for literature with stories that are perfectly matched to their reading level. Start with Literati’s personalization quiz and get your first box of books today.

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Favorite books for 8th graders

by: S. Michele Fry

Print book list

Kaffir Boy: The True Story of a Black Youth’s Coming to Age in Apartheid South Africa

by: Mark Mathabane - (Macmillan, 1986) 368 pages.

Mathabane’s autobiography is testimony to living in a brutal, bigoted society. Intended for older readers, this story informs first-hand about the unpredictable attacks and sheer madness of Apartheid and a government that is now, fortunately, historical. The author eloquently rises above the suffering inflicted by the secret police on his family and friends, giving readers a story that powerfully portrays personal ingenuity and courage.

Perfect for: Kids who like to read about real people.

Find Kaffir Boy: The True Story of a Black Youth’s Coming to Age in Apartheid South Africa at your local library.

by: Rainbow Rowell - (St. Martin's Griffin, 2013) 448 pages.

Fangirl draws you into Cath’s collegiate coming-of-age tale in a slice-of-life with a twist. Plagued by high anxiety, Cath shrinks at the thought of new people and situations. But just as she gets to college, her twin (and BFF) abandons her. Luckily her relationship with fictional Harry Potter-like character Simon Snow has made her the most popular fanfic writer online. Cath can handle Simon, but can she handle two real boys, a bipolar father, an absentee mother, and a sister who has embraced college life with gusto and perhaps ouzo?

Perfect for: Teens who love a character-driven story and seeing how people adjust to change and challenges.

Find Fangirl at your local library.

Yaqui Delgado Wants to Kick Your Ass

by: Meg Medina - (Candlewick, 2013) 272 pages.

After the floor in her mother’s apartment collapses, Piddy Sanchez is forced to move to another part of Queens and start a new school. There, Piddy learns that a girl named Yaqui Delgado wants to beat her up. Though Piddy and Yaqui have never met, Yaqui doesn’t consider Piddy a fellow Latina: her grades are too good, her skin too light, and her accent not thick enough. Haunted by Yaqui and her gang, Piddy grows increasingly fearful, feeling like she’s prey to Yaqui’s predator. In this gritty, realistic novel, Medina explores coming-of-age in a tinderbox of racial stereotyping and bullying.

Perfect for: Dealing with bullies in a new school environment.

Find Yaqui Delgado Wants to Kick Your Ass at your local library.

by: Veronica Roth - (Katherine Tegen Books, 2011)

In this tale, a war-ravaged world divides people based on personality and aptitude in order to guarantee peace. But rumblings of a power struggle have already begun. Just as our young protagonist transitions into adulthood, she learns she doesn’t quite fit any of the five factions. She’s “divergent,” a fact she must keep quiet about if she is to avoid becoming the target of the establishment. As Tris becomes embroiled in the war, she finds herself grappling with politics, loyalty, forgiveness, as well as love and her own identity.

Want to see the movie? Check out the 2014 adaptation starring Shailene Woodley and Kate Winslet, though parents should note the film contains some violence and intense themes.

Perfect for those who like strong female characters, dystopian world stories, and action.

Find our Divergent at your local library.

The Fault in Our Stars

by: John Green - (Penguin Books, 2014) 336 pages.

Knowing that she is dying of cancer, teenaged Hazel tries to discourage a budding romance with Augustus, a boy in her cancer support group. But despite her best intentions, the two fall in love and discover that the joy of making a real connection with another person is worth any risk. This is an intense book that deals with the harsh realities of cancer; but it’s uplifting, beautiful prose makes it an appealing story for teens.

Want to see the movie? The 2014 adaptation starring Shailene Woodley and Ansel Elgort wonderfully captures the book.

Perfect for: Teens who like tearjerkers.

Find The Fault in Our Stars at your local library.

by: Gayle Forman - (Speak, 2010) 320 pages.

After barely surviving the car wreck that kills her beloved parents and younger brother, Mia, a talented cellist, is in a coma. She narrates her life story from this place, hovering between life and death, observing her boyfriend and best friend at her bedside as the doctors work to save her life. In the end, Mia must decide whether to come back to a life without her family or to simply let go. This emotional and thought-provoking book deals with intense themes and has some sexual content that make it most appropriate for teens and up.

Want to see the movie? The 2014 adaptation starring Chloe Grace Moretz stays fairly true to the plot of the book.

Perfect for: Teens who like pondering life’s deeper questions.

Find If I Stay at your local library.

The Perks of Being a Wallflower

by: Stephen Chbosky - (MTV Books, 2012) 224 pages.

Charlie is a shy, sensitive freshman who struggles to navigate the complex, emotionally charged world of high school after his best friend commits suicide. Written as a series of earnest letters from Charlie to an unidentified recipient, the book’s approachable style makes this intense coming-of-age tale especially relatable for teens and a good choice for reluctant readers. Parents should note that the book covers Charlie’s observations on topics including suicide, sex, alcohol, and drugs.

Want to see the movie? The 2012 adaptation, which was directed by the book’s author, closely follows the plot of the book.

Perfect for: Teens who like emotional coming-of-age stories.

Find The Perks of Being a Wallflower at your local library.

The Namesake

by: Jhumpa Lahiri - (Mariner Books, 2004) 291 pages.

Growing up in America, Gogol Ganguli chafes against his unusual name and his Indian heritage. Determined to forge his own identity separate from his Bengali parents, Gogol changes his name, moves to New York, and begins dating Maxine, a white woman from a wealthy background. But as he and his parents grow older, Gogol is increasingly drawn to his past, even as he continues to search inside himself. Teens and young adults will connect with Gogol’s quest for independence and sympathize with his complicated, well-expressed feelings about his parents’ expectations for him.

Want to see the movie? Check out the colorful 2007 adaptation, which follows two generations of the Ganguli family.

Perfect for: Teens exploring their identities.

Find The Namesake at your local library.

The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy series

by: Douglas Adams - (Harmony Books, 1979) 224 pages.

The hook: Just before the Earth is destroyed to make way for a galactic freeway, Arthur Dent is rescued by his friend Ford Prefect, a researcher for The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy . The pair take off on an exciting journey through space, meeting a cast of bizarre characters with names like Zaphod Beeblebrox and Veet Voojagig on the way. Tweens and teens love the irreverent, satirical humor that characterize these books (which were originally a radio series).

Want to see the movie? Check out the 2005 adaptation starring Zooey Deschanel and Martin Freeman.

Perfect for: Tweens with a snarky sense of humor.

Find our favorites at your local library: The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy , The Restaurant at the End of the Universe , So Long, and Thanks for All the Fish .

The Lord of the Rings series

by: J.R.R. Tolkien - (Houghton Mifflin, 1954)

The hook: After lying dormant for centuries, the Dark Lord Sauron is rising again, and his return to domination over Middle Earth depends on recovering his evil ring of power. It falls to some humble hobbits to keep the ring safe from Sauron and ultimately drop it into the fiery depths of Mount Doom, which is the only way the ring can be destroyed. And so forms a motley fellowship that includes four hobbits, an elf, a dwarf, a wizard, and two men, who battle evil in many forms on their quest to destroy the One Ring. This epic fantasy trilogy has inspired a passion for fantasy in generations of teens.

Want to see the movie? The Lord of the Rings trilogy of films starring Elijah Woods, Ian McKellen, and Viggo Mortensen closely follows the series, but parents should note they may be too violent for younger or sensitive teens and tweens.

Perfect for: Teens who like epic battles involving elves, orcs, and dwarves.

Find our favorites at your local library: The Fellowship of the Ring , The Two Towers , The Return of the King .

Beyond Magenta

by: Susan Kuklin - (Candlewick, 2014) 192 pages.

This book profiles six real transgender teens — three female-to-male and three male-to-female — each telling their stories in their own voices. The teens come from a range of backgrounds — some very violent and troubled, others more conventional — but all must deal with the complications of shifting their identities in a world that is anything but understanding. Kuklin takes pains to portray these teens, in words and photographs, with respect and care.

Perfect for: Teens curious about gender identity issues.

Find Beyond Magenta at your local library.

by: Kathe Koja - (Farrar, Straus and Giroux, 2003) 128 pages.

In this young adult novel, Jinsen is bullied because of his dragon T-shirts, shaved head, and his religious lifestyle. Justin becomes his partner in a class project and starts to see Jinsen differently. Standing up for Jinsen complicates Justin’s life and his position in the social hierarchy of high school.

Perfect for: Kids who like realistic stories with a message.

Find Buddha Boy at your local library.

This One Summer

by: Mariko Tamaki , illustrated by: Jillian Tamaki - (First Second, 2014) 320 pages.

Every summer, Rose and her family take a trip to their lake house in Awago Beach. At the lake house, Rose and her friend Wendy reunite and enjoy the joys of childhood: collecting rocks and digging giant holes in the sand. But this summer is different: her parents won’t stop fighting, and Rose chooses the drama of the local teen bullies over childhood play. The monochromatic illustrations in this graphic novel capture this difficult and contemplative period in Rose’s life.

Perfect for: Graphic novel fans who want to read about that awkward transition from childhood to young adulthood.

Find This One Summer at your local library.

To Kill a Mockingbird

by: Harper Lee - (Grand Central Publishing, 1988) 384 pages.

Growing up in 1930s Alabama, Jem and Scout Finch live a comfortable life playing with their neighbor Dill, spying on the mysterious recluse Boo Radley, and getting into mischief. But when a black man is accused of raping a white woman, and their lawyer father, Atticus, chooses to defend him, the children soon come face to face with the realities of violence and prejudice in their small town. This powerful story deals with mature themes and presents teen readers with a realistic and moving depiction of racism in the segregated South.

Want to see the movie? The 1962 adaptation won three Academy Awards. Parents should note that it contains racially charged language and courtroom descriptions of sexual violence.

Perfect for: Teens with a strong sense of right vs. wrong.

Find To Kill a Mockingbird at your local library.

Gulliver’s Travels

by: Jonathan Swift - (Dover Publications, 1996) 240 pages.

This witty, 18th-century satire on European behavior was written as a series of tongue-in-cheek traveler narratives. Lemuel Gulliver is shipwrecked first on an island of tiny people, the Lilliputians. Subsequent voyages take him to a land of giants (Brobdingnag), to a country populated by talking horses (the Houyhnhnms), and other fanciful locations. Thematically, Swift explores the idea of utopia via topics such as family planning, education, and communalism versus individualism.

Perfect for: Young politicos who enjoy cultural criticism and political philosophy.

Find Gulliver’s Travels at your local library.

by: Richard Wright - (Harper Perennial Modern Classics, 2007) 448 pages.

Author Richard Wright shares the story of his troubled early childhood in the racist 1920s South and his eventual move to Chicago in this memoir. As an African-American boy in the 1920s and 1930s, he experiences extreme poverty, hunger, family violence, alcoholism (at the age of 6), and racial hatred. As he turns to both atheism and Communism, he examines their promises — both true and false. His hopeful conclusion asserts that writing will successfully connect him to the world.

Perfect for: Young adults interested honest stories of overcoming difficulties.

Find Black Boy at your local library.

The True Adventures of Nicolo Zen

by: Nicholas Christopher - (Ember, 2015) 288 pages.

Nicolo is a penniless orphan when he takes to the streets of 16th-century Venice with his magic clarinet. He becomes famous for his playing, falls in love, and meets the magician who enchanted his instrument in this moody and dramatic story of a boy’s coming of age.

Perfect for: Musicians and history lovers.

Find The True Adventures of Nicolo Zen at your local library.

Miss Peregrine’s Peculiar Children series

by: Ransom Riggs - (Penguin Random House Publisher Services, 2011) 352 pages.

The hook: When his grandfather dies, 16-year-old Jacob is left with nagging questions about the past. Compelled to discover the truth behind the strange stories that filled his childhood, Jacob, along with his father, travels to a tiny island in Wales to find the boarding school where his grandfather lived before WWII. What follows is an extraordinary story of monsters, time loops, and war as Jacob is thrust between the world he knows and the world of his grandfather’s past. Bizarre — and real! — old photographs are interspersed throughout this haunting series, pulling the reader into the story. You’ll find yourself questioning what’s real and what’s made up right along with Jacob. Parents should note the series has mature themes and violence.

Perfect for: Teens (and adults!) who like the stories behind old photos.

Find our favorites at your local library: Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children , Hollow City , Library of Souls .

I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings

by: Maya Angelou - (Ballantine Books, 2009) 304 pages.

This is the memoir, set during the Great Depression, of an African-American girl who was raped by her mother’s boyfriend when she was 8 and who endured racist humiliation from her white neighbors. She evolves from a nearly mute, victimized child with an inferiority complex into an independent, confident, expressive young woman — and she credits the power of literature for her transformation. Her story unfolds through witty and poetically beautiful prose, with a thematic structure that delivers a sequence of lessons on how to resist oppression.

Perfect for: Young readers interested in poignant coming-of-age stories.

Find I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings at your local library.

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10 Must-Read Books for 8th Graders

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By the time kids reach the 8th grade, they tend to vary a lot in their reading ability and maturity development. Some thirteen to fourteen year olds are avid readers who are already enjoying adult novels, while others might still struggle with reading or prefer to play video games rather than sitting down with a good book. 

AT A Glance: Our Top 5 Picks for Books for 8th Graders

• Fangirl by Rainbow Rowell – Our Top Pick
• The Lord of the Rings series by J.R.R. Tolkien
• The Fault in Our Stars by John Green
• The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy by Douglas Adams
• To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee

That’s why I’ve put together this varied list of book ideas for 8th graders. I’ve tried to include a wide selection of different styles, genres, and reading levels, so there should be something to suit every teen. There’s fantasy , sci-fi ,  romance , and some classics, as well as some books that will appeal to even the most reluctant readers. So, in no particular order, here are my top ten must read books for 8th graders.

Table of Contents

The 10 Best Books for 8th Graders

1. Fangirl by Rainbow Rowell  

Cath has been plagued by anxiety throughout her teenage years, and now, as she heads off to college, her mental health takes another nosedive. Her identical twin sister and best friend, Wren, has abandoned her. While she’s out partying, making friends, and embracing college life, Cath’s social anxiety forces her to hide herself away. 

She spends hours writing fan fiction, and to her delight, she starts to receive recognition online for her work. But there’s no running away from her real life problems, and as much as she’d love to hide out online and work on her writing forever, she’s forced to face her fears all too often. 

As the semesters tick by, Cath is faced with a lot of challenges; Wren is hospitalized after an alcohol overdose, her estranged mother shows up out of the blue, asking for redemption, and her father is involuntarily committed to a psychiatric ward after suffering a bipolar episode. 

This thought provoking book is a character driven coming of age story that refuses to gloss over the challenges and hurdles that life often throws at young people.

2. The Lord of the Rings series by J.R.R. Tolkien  

Middle Earth has enjoyed living in relative peace for centuries now, but something is starting to shift. The Dark Lord Sauron is waking up from his slumber, and only one thing stands between him and his plans on ultimate domination; a powerful, mysterious, and evil ring. If Sauron gets his hands on it, the whole of Middle Earth will be plunged into darkness and destroyed forever. 

The task of protecting this powerful ring falls to some unsuspecting hobbits. Along with the help of an eclectic group of friends, they must deliver the ring to the fiery underbelly of Mount Doom, where it will be destroyed once and for all, rendering Sauron powerless. But this dangerous quest was never going to be easy. 

This classic trilogy might be a little challenging for some readers, but if your 8th grader loves epic battles involving mystical creatures and already has a love of reading, then you can’t go wrong with the Lord of The Rings trilogy. 

3. The Fault in Our Stars by John Green  

Hazel knows that she’s dying of cancer. Despite doctors miraculously shrinking her tumor and buying her a few extra years, there’s only one fate in her future. But when she meets the handsome and charming Augustus Waters at her children’s cancer support group, everything changes. 

She’s no longer consumed by fear, dread, and hopelessness. Now, she’s in love. This modern classic explores the heartbreaking yet electrifying journey of two teens who face real life challenges beyond imagination. It’s a true tear-jerker and an absolute must-read not only for 8th graders but for everyone who enjoys a thought-provoking and emotional read. 

4. The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy by Douglas Adams  

Arthur Dent lives a boring, average, and predictable life, until one day, out of the blue, the Earth is destroyed to make space for an intergalactic freeway. Luckily, his best friend Ford Prefect had some inside information, and he rescued Arthur right before the planet was blasted into oblivion. It turns out that Ford is a researcher for The Hitchhikers Guide to the Galaxy, and now the pair are about to embark on an epic adventure through space and time. 

First released in 1979, this hilarious sci-fi story is a cult classic. Any 8th grader who likes satirical humor or a good space adventure will love this book. 

5. To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee  

Scout and Jem Finch live a sheltered, happy life in 1930s small-town Alabama, under the care of their father, a lawyer named Atticus Finch. They spend their days playing games with their friend Dill and spying on their strange, solitary neighbor, a mysterious man named Boo Radley. 

But their innocent small town world comes crashing down after Atticus decides to defend a black man who is wrongly accused of raping a white woman. The children must now come face to face with a dark reality of insidious racism, prejudice, and hatred that exists just below the surface of their seemingly idyllic homeland. 

This classic tale is loved by teens and adults worldwide. It’s on many a school syllabus not just because it’s a classic piece of literature but also to spark interesting and necessary discussions about segregation, racism, and the darker side of American history. 

6. Divergent by Veronica Roth  

Beatrice Prior lives in a dark, dystopian Chicago, where society is divided up into so called ‘virtuous’ factions. There’s Candor (the honest), Abnegation (the selfless), Dauntless (the brave), Erudite (the intelligent), and Amity (the peaceful). One day each year, all the sixteen year olds in society must choose which faction they will join, but there’s a catch; they will have to devote the rest of their lives to it, and there’s no going back. 

As Beatrice’s turn to decide her faction draws near, she’s torn. On the one hand, she feels she should stay with her family, but on the other, she knows she doesn’t belong there. When the day comes to make her decision, she surprises everyone, including herself. 

What follows is a grueling initiation period, where she takes on a new name; Tris. Day after day, Tris and her fellow initiates must undergo brutal physical and mental tests that push them to their very limits. As they all struggle to accept their new identities, Tris carries a secret with her. It’s a secret she knows she can never share; if anyone ever found out, it could lead to her death. But in order to save those she loves, she might just have to. 

7. Just Ella by Margaret Peterson Haddix

We’re all familiar with the fairy tale Cinderella, where she meets Prince Charming, they get married, and they both live happily ever after. But this edgy rework by Margaret Peterson Haddix is grounded firmly in reality, a reality where being a princess isn’t always sunshine and roses. For starters, the prince isn’t the slightest bit charming or even remotely interesting. 

And Ella quickly realizes that she’s not exactly princess material either. Acting like a “lady” is harder than it looks, and in the days leading up to their wedding, she’s having second thoughts about the whole thing. 

She doesn’t want to be married to a man she doesn’t love, and to make matters worse, there’s another boy in the palace that catching her attention much more than her supposed perfect match. 

Now, Ella must escape a life she doesn’t belong to before it’s too late.

8. The Girl Who Drank the Moon by Kelly Barnhill  

There’s a witch who lives in the forest just outside of town, and each year, the people of the Protectorate choose a baby and leave it for the witch as a kind of sacrifice. They hope that this annual act will keep her evil ways at bay. 

But what they don’t know is that this witch isn’t so evil, after all. Her name is Xan, and she’s gentle and kind. She rescues these absconded children and nourishes them with magical starlight. She then delivers them to loving families on the other side of the forest, where they can live happy, healthy lives. 

But one year, after receiving another child from the misguided Protectorate, Xan accidentally feeds them moonlight rather than starlight. Moonlight contains a power unlike any other, and so Xan decides to raise this baby girl, who she names Luna, herself, in order to protect her from the powerful magic she holds. Xan casts a spell to lock up Luna’s magic and keep her safe throughout her childhood. 

But as her thirteenth birthday approaches, this magic is slowly starting to return. And elsewhere, on the other side of the forest, the Protectorate is hatching a plan to kill the ‘evil’ witch once and for all. Now, Luna must protect the person who has kept her safe all these years, but will she be able to contain the power that is slowly reigniting inside of her? 

9. Sold by Patricia McCormick

Thirteen year old Lakshmi lives in a tiny hut with her family in the soaring Nepalese mountains. Despite being desperately poor, Lakshmi lives a happy life, full of love, wonder, and adventure. But one day, the torrential monsoon rains arrive with a vengeance, and they destroy the last of the family’s already dwindling crops. Now there’s no food to eat, and the family is thrown into desperate circumstances. 

Lakshmi’s stepfather tells her she must leave her family home and go out to work in order to save them from certain starvation. He takes her to meet a glamourous stranger who offers her a job as a maid in the big city, working for a wealthy woman. After just a few months, Lakshmi will be able to save enough money to ensure that her family is well-fed, and this nightmare will be over. 

After a long journey to India, she arrives at “Happiness House” ready to start work, but she soon discovers the terrifying truth; she’s been sold into prostitution. 

Lakshmi enters a living nightmare that seems like it will never end, until one day, she has the opportunity to reclaim her life and her family. This is a wonderfully written, powerful novel about a tough topic, but it’s handled with sensitivity and care, making it perfect for curious teen readers. 

10. Between Shades of Gray by Ruta Sepetys  

Growing up in 1940s Lithuania, fifteen year old Lina is like any other girl her age. She loves painting and drawing, and she and her friends talk about all the boys they’d like to kiss. But one night, her happy life is ripped apart when Soviet officers tear into her home. They separate her from her father and force Lina, her mother, and her younger brother onto a cramped and dirty train. Before they have the chance to blink, they’re heading north, where they will eventually arrive in the brutally cold conditions of remote Siberia. 

Under Stalin’s orders, she, her family, and others like them are forced to work under the most inhumane conditions, and every day is a struggle to survive. 

Lina risks her potential death to escape into her art; she documents everything that happens to them, drawing secret pictures and hoping that maybe one day, these messages will reach her father, and he’ll know they’re still alive. 

Lina’s journey is full of pain, fear, and sadness, but it’s also one of incredible love, strength, and hope. It’s a captivating read for any mature 8th grader. 

No matter what kind of stories your 8th grader enjoys, there’s something out there that will  encourage their love of reading . Do you have any suggestions for great titles that 8th graders will enjoy? Drop a comment below! 

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Best Books That 8th Graders Should Read

We will unravel the top book picks for 8th graders. From contemporary realism to historical fiction, sci-fi to poetry, we have something for everyone. These books have been widely recommended for middle school students due to both their language and vocabulary as well as the introduction of more mature themes students should start thinking about.

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By no means is this a definitive list, it’s just a high level overview to help you get started. We suggest checking multiple “best book” lists because each one always seems to have a few gems in them that students love.

Anyways, let’s get started:

‘Mary Underwater’ by Shannon Doleski

‘Mary Underwater’ by Shannon Doleski is a heartwarming coming-of-age story that follows a young girl navigating family issues and discovering herself. Set in a small town in Maryland, the book transports readers to the picturesque setting of the Chesapeake Bay through vivid descriptions. With relatable themes of friendship, family, and self-discovery, this book is perfect for middle schoolers.

Shannon Doleski’s engaging and immersive writing style keeps readers hooked from start to finish. ‘Mary Underwater’ offers excellent entertainment and depth, making it an ideal choice for summer reading.

‘The Epic Fail of Arturo Zamora’ by Pablo Cartaya

‘The Epic Fail of Arturo Zamora’ by Pablo Cartaya is a heartwarming tale that revolves around the themes of family, community, and food. Set in Florida, the story follows the journey of Arturo Zamora, a 13-year-old boy, as he navigates life’s challenges.

With its exploration of gentrification, cultural identity, and friendship, this book offers young adult readers a captivating narrative perfect for summer reading.

‘The Epic Fail of Arturo Zamora’ has received praise from readers for its relatable characters and engaging storyline. It is a great choice for 8th graders looking for an impactful and enjoyable read.

‘Taking Up Space’ by Alyson Gerber

‘Taking Up Space’ by Alyson Gerber is a thought-provoking novel that delves into the struggles of a girl with dyslexia. Through the story of protagonist Sarah, readers are taken on a journey of self-acceptance and discovering one’s voice. As Sarah navigates the challenges of middle school, her learning differences become integral to her experience.

This honest and heartfelt portrayal offers a fresh perspective on academic and life success. ‘Taking Up Space’ is a must-read for anyone seeking insight into the hurdles faced by those with dyslexia, making it a valuable addition to any reading list.

‘Beverly, Right Here’ by Kate DiCamillo

‘Beverly, Right Here’ by Kate DiCamillo is a heartwarming coming-of-age story set in Florida. The novel follows Beverly, a brave and resilient young girl who runs away from home to find herself.

Along her journey, Beverly encounters an intriguing cast of characters, including an elderly woman and a friendly dog. Kate DiCamillo, a Newbery Medal-winning author, showcases her talent for poignant and relatable storytelling in this book.

‘Beverly, Right Here’ is perfect for readers who enjoy self-discovery, friendship, and adventure stories. It offers a captivating narrative that will resonate with middle school readers and leave a lasting impact.

‘Nikki on the Line’ by Barbara Carroll Roberts

“Nikki on the Line” by Barbara Carroll Roberts is a relatable and inspiring story of teamwork, friendship, and perseverance. This middle-grade novel takes readers on the journey of an eighth-grade girl as she navigates through her school’s basketball team tryouts.

With themes of self-discovery, family dynamics, and overcoming challenges, the book beautifully captures the emotions and experiences of adolescence. It is a must-read for sports enthusiasts, fans of realistic fiction, and those looking for diverse characters.

Get ready to be inspired by Nikki’s determination and resilience as she tackles on-court challenges and personal growth.

‘Refugee’ by Alan Gratz

‘Refugee’ by Alan Gratz follows the lives of three refugee families from different periods, exploring themes of survival, hope, and resilience in the face of adversity. Gratz’s storytelling style is accessible and engaging for readers of all ages, while the historical context provides an educational component to the book’s entertainment value.

‘Refugee’ has received critical acclaim and is a New York Times bestseller. This powerful and captivating novel is an excellent addition to any 8th-grade summer reading list, offering a unique perspective on the experiences of refugees throughout history.

‘Good Enough’ by Jen Petro-Roy

‘Good Enough’ by Jen Petro-Roy delves into the story of a young girl grappling with an eating disorder, highlighting the significance of self-acceptance and mental health. The book provides valuable insights into the complexities of eating disorders, making it an essential read for those seeking understanding and empathy.

Additionally, ‘Good Enough’ is an excellent starting point for parents and educators to engage in conversations about mental health with young adults. Petro-Roy’s engaging writing style ensures the book is informative and accessible, offering an insightful exploration of this challenging topic.

‘Animal Farm’ by George Orwell

‘Animal Farm’ by George Orwell is a political allegory that cleverly uses animals to represent different aspects of the Russian Revolution. The novel is a critique of totalitarianism and the abuse of power. Orwell’s engaging and accessible writing style makes it an excellent choice for middle schoolers.

The book’s themes remain relevant today, sparking discussions about current events. ‘Animal Farm’ is considered a classic and should be read at least once by every student in their academic career. Its thought-provoking narrative and timeless lessons make it a must-read for young readers and adults alike.

‘The Other Side of Truth by Beverley Naidoo

Beverley Naidoo’s ‘The Other Side of Truth’ delves into profound family, truth, and justice themes. This captivating novel takes readers on a gripping journey across Nigeria and London as two siblings escape political persecution. Naidoo fearlessly explores challenging topics such as corruption and violence, making this book poignant and enlightening for mature readers.

With her engaging and thought-provoking writing style, Naidoo prompts readers to reflect on their beliefs and values. ‘The Other Side of Truth’ is a powerful and impactful read that lingers in readers’ minds long after they turn the final page.

‘Nimona’ by Noelle Stevenson

‘Nimona’ by Noelle Stevenson is a captivating graphic novel that follows the adventures of a shape-shifting teenage girl. This award-winning book, recognized with the National Book Award and Eisner Award, explores themes of friendship, identity, and morality in a fun and engaging way.

With its stunning illustrations and captivating storytelling style, ‘Nimona’ appeals to readers of all ages. It is especially recommended for those who enjoy fantasy and graphic novels. So, if you’re looking for a high-quality book to add to your 8th-grade summer reading list, ‘Nimona’ is worth checking out.

‘The 5th Wave’ by Rick Yancey

“The 5th Wave” by Rick Yancey is a gripping science fiction novel about an alien invasion. The story follows Cassie, a survivor on a desperate mission to find her younger brother amidst the chaos and destruction caused by the extraterrestrial beings.

It explores themes of survival, trust, and humanity in the face of dire circumstances. Yancey’s writing style captivates readers, making it difficult to put the book down. With its action-packed plot and a touch of romance, “The 5th Wave” is an excellent choice for young adults looking for an exciting summer read.

‘Frankenstein’ by Mary Shelley

Mary Shelley’s ‘Frankenstein’ is a timeless classic that delves into the themes of creation and responsibility. The novel follows the ambitious Victor Frankenstein as he attempts to bring life to his own design, only to face the devastating consequences of his actions.

With its Gothic elements and supernatural occurrences, Shelley creates an eerie ambiance that intrigues the story. The multiple perspectives and complex characters make ‘Frankenstein’ an excellent choice for critical analysis.

This thought-provoking novel remains relevant today, as it explores the ethical implications of playing God and the effects of technological advancements on humanity.

‘Lord of the Rings by JRR Tolkien

“Lord of the Rings” by JRR Tolkien is a beloved and timeless classic that has captivated readers for generations. This epic fantasy novel takes readers on a thrilling journey alongside hobbit Frodo Baggins as he embarks on a quest to destroy the One Ring and save Middle-earth. With its masterful world-building and richly developed characters, this book is a must-read for any fan of the fantasy genre.

The themes of friendship, sacrifice, and the eternal battle between good and evil resonate with readers of all ages. Even today, Lord of the Rings inspires and influences popular culture in various mediums, from movies to video games.

‘The Count of Monte Cristo’ by Alexandre Dumas

‘The Count of Monte Cristo’ by Alexandre Dumas is a classic tale set in 19th century France, filled with revenge, love, and betrayal themes. The story follows Edmond Dantès, who is wrongfully imprisoned and seeks vengeance against those who betrayed him. With its complex characters, intricate plots, and unexpected twists, this novel is thought-provoking and engaging for 8th graders.

Though challenging in length and vocabulary, the timeless themes make it a must-read for young readers. ‘The Count of Monte Cristo’ offers a captivating journey through justice, morality, and redemption.

‘Ender’s Game by Orson Scott Card

‘Ender’s Game’ by Orson Scott Card is a popular science fiction novel set in a futuristic world. The story revolves around Ender Wiggin, a young genius recruited to attend a military school in space. There, Ender undergoes intense training in combat and strategy, with the ultimate goal of defeating an alien race that threatens Earth.

This thought-provoking book delves into themes of leadership, morality, and the consequences of war. It has garnered numerous awards and has even been adapted into a film and video game. ‘Ender’s Game’ is a thrilling read that will captivate young readers who enjoy sci-fi and action-packed stories.

‘Deep Blue by Jennifer Donnelly

‘Deep Blue’ by Jennifer Donnelly is a captivating fantasy adventure book that follows the journey of six mermaids as they embark on a quest to save their underwater kingdoms. Written by Jennifer Donnelly, a bestselling author known for her historical fiction novels, ‘Deep Blue’ combines action, suspense, and magical creatures to keep readers engaged.

This book is perfect for middle schoolers who enjoy fantasy and adventure stories, and it also explores important themes such as friendship, courage, and perseverance. Dive into the enchanting world of ‘Deep Blue’ and join these brave mermaids on their thrilling adventure.

Why should 8th graders read ‘The Hate You Give’ by Angie Thomas?

‘The Hate You Give’ by Angie Thomas tackles pressing social issues such as police brutality and racial injustice. It offers a unique perspective that helps young readers understand the struggles faced by marginalized communities. 8th graders can develop critical thinking skills and empathy towards others by reading this book. The acclaimed novel has received numerous awards, making it a must-read for young adults.

Engaging with Poetry

Poetry is a powerful medium that fosters critical thinking and language skills in 8th graders. By introducing them to diverse voices and styles of poetry, their perspectives can be broadened. Two highly recommended titles for middle schoolers are “The Crossover” by Kwame Alexander and “Brown Girl Dreaming” by Jacqueline Woodson.

Encouraging students to write their own poetry develops their creativity and self-expression and nurtures a deeper appreciation for the art form. Engaging with poetry during the summer can be a fun and rewarding activity for young readers.

Exploring Poetry for 8th Graders

Poetry offers a powerful means of self-expression and emotional exploration, making it an excellent addition to an 8th-grade reading list. Students can enhance their critical thinking and language skills by reading and analyzing poems. Introducing students to diverse poets and styles is crucial to broaden their literary horizons. Incorporating poetry into class discussions and assignments can make learning more interactive and engaging for 8th graders.

Additionally, encouraging students to write their own poetry fosters creativity and boosts confidence in their writing abilities.

Exploring Various Genres

During the summer, students must continue reading and exploring various genres. Fiction lovers can delve into classic literature, young adult novels, and captivating mystery stories. Non-fiction enthusiasts can be captivated by biographies, memoirs, and informative history books. Poetry enthusiasts can indulge in diverse collections by contemporary poets, immersing themselves in beautiful language and thought-provoking themes. For those who prefer visual storytelling, graphic novels provide entertaining and visually stimulating narratives.

Whether escaping into a world of imagination or delving into real-life stories, exploring different genres is a great way for 8th graders to expand their horizons and enhance their literacy skills.

Contemporary Realism for 8th Graders

Contemporary realism is a genre that focuses on realistic depictions of modern-day life, addressing relevant social issues and promoting empathy and understanding. Angie Thomas’ “The Hate U Give” explores police brutality and racism, while Laurie Halse Anderson’s “Speak” tackles sexual assault. Other recommended titles include “Wonder” by R.J. Palacio and “Refugee” by Alan Gratz.

These books offer compelling narratives that resonate with 8th graders, encouraging critical thinking and a deeper understanding of the world around them. By immersing themselves in contemporary realism, young readers can gain valuable insights into society and cultivate empathy for others.

Diving into Fantasy and Sci-Fi

Fantasy and sci-fi genres transport readers to imaginative realms and alternate realities. Suzanne Collins’ “The Hunger Games” is a gripping sci-fi novel that delves into themes of survival and rebellion. Christopher Paolini’s “Eragon” takes readers on an epic fantasy adventure alongside a young dragon rider. Lois Lowry’s “The Giver” challenges the concept of a perfect society in a dystopian setting. Frank Herbert’s “Dune” delves into political intrigue and the consequences of ecological disaster. These books offer 8th graders a thrilling escape and broaden their literary horizons.

Reliving the Past with Historical Fiction

Historical fiction books can transport readers to different periods and cultures, providing a unique perspective on the past. These novels often incorporate historical events into their storylines, offering insights into how we got to where we are today.

For 8th graders, popular historical fiction books like “Code Name Verity” and “The Boy in the Striped Pajamas” can be educational and engaging. By reading historical fiction, students can also improve their critical thinking skills by evaluating sources and considering different perspectives. It’s an excellent way for young readers to relive the past and gain a deeper understanding of history.

Impact of Reading on Young Minds

Reading has a profound impact on young minds, offering numerous benefits. It is crucial in improving vocabulary and language skills, helping students expand their knowledge and communication abilities. Additionally, reading stimulates imagination and creativity, allowing young readers to explore different worlds and ideas.

Moreover, it fosters empathy and understanding by exposing readers to diverse perspectives and experiences. Alongside these cognitive benefits, reading also promotes mental health and relaxation, providing a welcome escape from the stresses of daily life. Summer reading lists further enhance these advantages, enabling students to discover new genres and authors, and broadening their literary horizons.

The Power and Influence of Books

Reading has a profound impact on the development of young people, fostering cognitive and emotional growth. Books can mold young minds and shape their perspectives on the world. Summer reading lists are an excellent way to introduce middle school students to new genres, authors, and ideas.

Engaging in reading can enhance vocabulary, comprehension, and critical thinking skills. Encouraging tweens to read can ignite a lifelong passion for learning and curiosity. Books can transport readers to different periods, cultures, and even supernatural realms, providing a gateway to explore new worlds and broaden horizons.

In conclusion, reading can transport us to different worlds, evoke emotions, and expand our horizons. It is an essential tool for young minds to develop empathy, critical thinking, and imagination.

The recommended books on this 8th-grade summer reading list offer diverse genres and themes, allowing students to explore new perspectives and ideas. Whether it’s a contemporary realistic fiction, a fantasy adventure, or a historical novel, each book can potentially leave a lasting impact on young readers.

Encouraging 8th graders to read ‘The Hate You Give’ by Angie Thomas can spark meaningful conversations about social issues and promote empathy and understanding. So grab a book, dive into its pages, and embark on a journey of discovery and growth through reading.

Editorial Staff

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42 Creative Book Report Ideas for Students

Inspire your students to share their love of books.

Responding to what you read is an important literacy skill. Reading about other people’s experiences and perspectives helps kids learn about the world. And although students don’t need to dive deeply into every single book they read, occasionally digging into characters, settings, and themes can help them learn to look beyond the prose. Here are 42 creative book report ideas designed to make reading more meaningful for kids.

1. Concrete Found Poem

This clever activity is basically a shape poem made up of words, phrases, and whole sentences found in the books students read. The words come together to create an image that represents something from the story.

2. Graphic Novel

Have students rewrite the book they are reading, or a chapter of their book, as a graphic novel. Set parameters for the assignment such as including six scenes from the story, three characters, details about the setting, etc. And, of course, include detailed illustrations to accompany the story.

3. Book Snaps

Book Snaps are a way for students to visually show how they are reacting to, processing, and/or connecting with a text. First, students snap a picture of a page in the book they are reading. Then, they add comments, images, highlights, and more.

4. Diary Entry

Have your students place themselves in the shoes of one of the characters from their book and write a first-person diary entry of a critical moment from the story. Ask them to choose a moment in the story where the character has plenty of interaction and emotion to share in a diary entry.

5. Pizza Box Book Report

If you’re looking for creative book report ideas that use upcycled materials, try this one using a pizza box. It works well for both nonfiction and fiction book reports. The top lid provides a picture of the book cover. Each wedge of the pizza pie tells part of the story.

6. Book Jacket

Have students create a new book jacket for their story. Include an attractive illustrated cover, a summary, a short biography of the author, and a few reviews from readers.

7. Mint Tin Book Report

There are so many super-creative, open-ended projects you can use mint tins for. Teacher blogger Teacher Thrive describes the process of creating book reports using them. There’s even a free template for cards that fit inside.

8. Fictional Yearbook Entries

Ask your students to create a yearbook based on the characters and setting in the book. What do they look like? Cut out magazine pictures to give a good visual image for their school picture. What kind of superlative might they get? Best-looking? Class clown? What clubs would they be in or lead? Did they win any awards? It should be obvious from their small yearbooks whether your students dug deep into the characters in their books. They may also learn that who we are as individuals is reflected in what we choose to do with our lives.

9. Book Report Cake

This project would be perfect for a book tasting in your classroom! Each student presents their book report in the shape of food. Learn more about book tastings .

10. Current Events Comparison

Have students locate three to five current events articles a character in their book might be interested in. After they’ve found the articles, have them explain why the character would find them interesting and how they relate to the book. Learning about how current events affect time, place, and people is critical to helping develop opinions about what we read and experience in life.

11. Sandwich Book Report

Yum! You’ll notice a lot of our creative book report ideas revolve around food. In this oldie but goodie, each layer of this book report sandwich covers a different element of the book—characters, setting, conflict, etc.

12. Book Alphabet

Choose 15 to 20 alphabet books to help give your students examples of how they work around themes. Then ask your students to create their own Book Alphabet based on the book they read. What artifacts, vocabulary words, and names reflect the important parts of the book? After they find a word to represent each letter, have them write one sentence that explains where the word fits in.

13. Peekaboo Book Report

Using cardboard lap books (or small science report boards), students include details about their book’s main characters, plot, setting, conflict, resolution, etc. Then they draw a head and arms on card stock and attach them to the board from behind to make it look like the main character is peeking over this book report.

14. Act the Part

Have students dress up as their favorite character from the book and present an oral book report. If their favorite character is not the main character, retell the story from their point of view.

15. T-shirt Book Report

Another fun and creative idea: Create a wearable book report with a plain white tee. Come up with your own using Sharpie pens and acrylic paint.

16. Bookmark

Have students create a custom illustrated bookmark that includes drawings and words from either their favorite chapter or the entire book.

17. Rays of Sunshine Book Report

This is great for biography research projects. Students cut out a photocopied image of their subject and glue it in the middle. Then, they draw lines from the image to the edges of the paper, like rays of sunshine, and fill in each section with information about the person. As a book report template, the center image could be a copy of the book cover, and each section expands on key information such as character names, theme(s), conflict, resolution, etc.

18. Reading Lists for Characters

Ask your students to think about a character in their book. What kinds of books might that character like to read? Take them to the library to choose five books the character might have on their to-be-read list. Have them list the books and explain what each book might mean to the character. Post the to-be-read lists for others to see and choose from—there’s nothing like trying out a book character’s style when developing your own identity.

19. Character To-Do List

This fun activity is an off-the-beaten-path way to dive deep into character analysis. Get inside the head of the main character in a book and write a to-do list that they might write. Use actual information from the text, but also make inferences into what that character may wish to accomplish.

20. Collage

Create a collage using pictures and words that represent different parts of the book. Use old magazines or print pictures from the Internet.

21. Book Reports in a Bag

Looking for book report ideas that really encourage creative thinking? With book reports in a bag, students read a book and write a summary. Then, they decorate a paper grocery bag with a scene from the book, place five items that represent something from the book inside the bag, and present the bag to the class.

22. Timeline

Have students create a timeline of the main events from their book. Be sure to include character names and details for each event. Use 8″ x 11″ sheets of paper taped together or a long portion of bulletin board paper.

23. File Folder Book Report

Also called a lap book, this easy-to-make book report hits on all the major elements of a book study and gives students a chance to show what they know in a colorful way.

24. Public Service Announcement

If a student has read a book about a cause that affects people, animals, or the environment, teach them about public service announcements . Once they understand what a PSA is, have them research the issue or cause that stood out in the book. Then provide a template for a storyboard so they can create their own PSA. Some students might want to take it a step further and create a video based on their storyboard. Consider sharing their storyboard or video with an organization that supports the cause or issue.

25. Triorama Book Report

Who doesn’t love a multidimensional book report? This image shows a 3D model, but you can also try an accordion-folded book report, a quadrama, or an info-sphere.

26. Character Cards

Make trading cards (like baseball cards) for a few characters from the book. On the front side, draw the character. On the back side, make a list of their character traits and include a quote or two.

27. Book Report Mobile

This creative project doesn’t require a fancy or expensive supply list. Students just need an ordinary clothes hanger, strings, and paper. The body of the hanger is used to identify the book, and the cards on the strings dangling below are filled with key elements of the book, like characters, setting, and a summary.

28. Fact Sheet

Have students create a list of 10 facts that they learned from reading the book. Have them write the facts in complete sentences, and be sure that each fact is something that they didn’t know before they read the book.

29. Dodecahedron Book Report

Creative book report ideas think outside the box. In this case, it’s a ball! SO much information can be covered on the 12 panels, and it allows students to take a deep dive in a creative way.

30. Be a Character Therapist

Therapists work to uncover their clients’ fears based on their words and actions. When we read books, we must learn to use a character’s actions and dialogue to infer their fears. Many plots revolve around a character’s fear and the work it takes to overcome that fear. Ask students to identify a character’s fear and find 8 to 10 scenes that prove this fear exists. Then have them write about ways the character overcame the fear (or didn’t) in the story. What might the character have done differently?

31. Charm Bracelet Book Report

What a “charming” way to write a book report! Each illustrated bracelet charm captures a character, an event in the plot, setting, or other detail.

32. Mind Maps

Mind maps can be a great way to synthesize what students have learned from reading a book. Plus, there are so many ways to approach them. Begin by writing a central idea in the middle of the page. For example, general information, characters, plot, etc. Then branch out from the center with ideas, thoughts, and connections to material from the book.

33. Book Report Booklets

This clever book report is made from ordinary paper bags. Stack the paper bags on top of each other, fold them in half, and staple the closed-off ends of the bags together. Students can write, draw, and decorate on the paper bag pages. They can also record information on writing or drawing paper and glue the paper onto the pages. The open ends of the bags can be used as pockets to insert photos, cut-outs, postcards, or other flat items that help them tell their story.

34. Letter to the Author

Have kids write a letter to the author of the book. Tell them three things you really liked about the story. Ask three questions about the plot, characters, or anything else you’re curious about.

35. Cardboard Box TV

This cardboard box TV book report project is a low-tech version of a television made from a cereal box and two paper towel rolls. Students create the viewing screen cut out at the top, then insert a scroll of paper with writing and illustrations inside the box. When the cardboard roll is rotated, the story unfolds.

36. Board games

This is a great project if you want your students to develop a little more insight into what they’re reading. Have them think about the elements of their favorite board games and how they can be adapted to fit this assignment.

37. Foldables

From Rainbows Within Reach, this clever idea would be a great introduction to writing book reports. Adapt the flap categories for students at different levels. Adjust the number of categories (or flaps) per the needs of your students.

38. Timeline

Create a timeline using a long roll of butcher paper, a poster board, or index cards taped together. For each event on the timeline, write a brief description of what happens. Add pictures, clip art, word art, and symbols to make the timeline more lively and colorful.

39. Comic Strips

If you’re looking for creative book report ideas for students who like graphic novels, try comic strip book reports. Include an illustrated cover with the title and author. The pages of the book should retell the story using dialogue and descriptions of the setting and characters. Of course, no comic book would be complete without copious illustrations and thought bubbles.

40. Movie Version

If the book your students have read has been made into a movie, have them write a report about how the versions are alike and different. If the book has not been made into a movie, have them write a report telling how they would make it into a movie, using specific details from the book.

41. Wanted Poster

Make a Wanted poster for one of the book’s main characters. Indicate whether they are wanted dead or alive. Include a picture of the character and a description of what the character is “wanted” for, three examples of the character showing this trait, and a detailed account of where the character was last seen.

42. Wheaties Box Book Report

Recycle a cereal box and create a book report to look like an old-fashioned Wheaties box that features sports heroes. Include a main image on the front side of the box. Decorate the sides of the box with information about the book’s characters, setting, plot, summary, etc.

Come share your own creative book report ideas in our We Are Teachers HELPLINE group on Facebook.

Plus, dont’ miss 100 famous children’s books every kid should read (plus free printable).

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8th-Grade Reading List: Homeschool Literature Books for Middle School

Table of Contents

8th Grade Reading List Homeschoolers love

You’re looking to homeschool your 8th-grader? I bet you’re looking for books to bring in the best of literature for your rising high schooler’s young mind. Then you don’t want to miss this. It’s a comprehensive 8th-grade reading list of the most intriguing and inspiring literature books for middle schoolers!

From classic literature to more modern pieces, you’ll find the perfect books to make your 8th-grader’s homeschool days both enjoyable and educational.

Classic Literature

When it comes to preparing a reading list for homeschooled 8th graders, classic literature should definitely make the cut. From picture books to full-length novels, classic literature can introduce young readers to stories that have been enjoyed by many generations before them. Such books can expand their thinking and offer deeper insight into culture and history.

Charlotte Mason, an educator in England during the 19th century, popularized a “great book” approach to education. This approach encourages students to read works from master authors like Robert Frost and Mark Twain. Examples of great books that have been enjoyed by 8th graders are Secret Garden, Gulliver’s Travels, Summer of the Swans, The Adventures of Tom Sawyer, Dr. Jekyll & Mr. Hyde, and Treasure Island. The Little House books are particularly recommended for this age group given their historical context and focus on the inspiring adventures of a young girl growing up in nature’s beauty in rural America during the 1800s.

Classic Lit. study guides & books

Enjoy the books as a read-aloud or for independent learning . Below are resources for books and study guides as well as online courses.

• Robert Frost – Poems make great read-aloud to add to your morning routine.
• Huckleberry Finn , a literature study guide of a Mark Twain favorite.
• Secret Garden , is such a great book. Add a literature guide to help your family get the most out of this classic story.
• Gulliver’s Travels – choose a literature guide to pair with this classic adventure novel
• Summer of the Swans , – Perfect for summer! Pair with this pdf literature guide .
• The Adventures of Tom Sawyer – Pick your favorite literature guide to get the most out of this classic middle school favorite.
• Dr. Jekyll & Mr. Hyde , – A literature study guide for this Robert Louis Stevenson classic.
• Treasure Island – an adventure classic to enjoy with your choice of e xcellent literature guides here.
• The Little House on The Prarie books – Little House in the Big Woods Online Book Club

Newbery Award books also feature some great stories that can be read by 8th-grade students. Not only do these provide wonderful tales with interesting characters but they also help children learn how writers use figurative language as well as other literary techniques such as alliteration or similes when telling enchanting stories or creating entertaining poems or songs for recitation.

Any eighth grader will definitely benefit from exploring classic literature during their studies; such timeless works offer important life lessons while opening up new perspectives on literature and world culture in general!

American History in Literature

Incorporating online courses into any eighth-grade homeschool book list is an excellent way to provide an education in American history. Reading a historical fiction novel such as “Roll of Thunder Hear My Cry” can give a child a realistic understanding of the difficulties faced by African Americans in the South during segregation. Introducing a classic novel like “The Call of the Wild ” can be fun and engaging, while also providing insight into U.S. history with its descriptions of the Klondike gold rush period.

Reading books from different American time periods is a great way to introduce students to historical events that happened across different eras. Classic novels like Little Women will give your student an appreciation for 19th-century life, whereas something such as “The Witch of Blackbird Pond” will bring students into Colonial America and introduce them to why settlers fled from Europe to begin their lives in the New World. For those with animal lovers in their classroom, “Old Yeller” or ‘ The Red Fern Grows ’ provide insight into life on the ranch during 19th century.

For those looking for a field trip without leaving the house, these books are an excellent addition to any 8th-grade homeschool book list and can give children an understanding of literature while at the same time immersing them in American history. With an incredible range of books on lists, finding one that is sure to capture your student’s imagination should not be difficult.

Dystopian Literature

When it comes to understanding dystopian literature, it is important for 8th-grade homeschool literature courses to introduce the correct book to their students. High school students can certainly enjoy the complexity of books like The Hunger Games, but for younger middle schoolers, those stories may be over their grade level.

For 8th-grade homeschoolers, the right book selection will help ensure they have an age-appropriate experience while deepening their understanding of dystopian literature. Suggested titles include The Giver by Lois Lowry, The City of Ember by Jeanne DuPrau, Brave New World by Aldous Huxley, and 1984 by George Orwell. Older students who are looking for a more mature reading list can explore works like Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury or Station 11 by Emily St John Mandel.

Search for your favorite version of these Dystopian literature books on Amazon.com.

Reading these diverse books helps students foster an understanding of dystopian literature and its impact on society as well as themes such as rebellion, using technology responsibly, and identifying effective leadership styles. With engaging stories and characters that connect with young readers’ lives and experiences, these titles are sure to make your 8th-grade homeschool literature study a hit!

8th-grade reading list: check your library

No matter what your 8th grader might be interested in reading, this literature list features some amazing titles perfect for their age group! Be sure to check out your local library for these fantastic stories or find them online through vendors like Amazon or Barnes & Noble — and get ready for some great reads!

World History in Literature

Incorporating world history in literature is a great way for 8th-grade homeschool students to learn about the past and its impact on the present. A good place to start is The Hiding Place by Corrie Ten Boom, which is a true story of heroism and faith set during World War II. Another modern classic is The Diary of a Young Girl by Anne Frank which offers an inspiring perspective on hope in the midst of intense wartime conditions.

One well-known work from French author Alexandre Dumas is The Count of Monte Cristo, which touches upon themes such as vengeance and justice in revolutionary France. It’s an exciting adventure story that offers insight into the era’s political climate. Another classic novel set during this period is Frankenstein by Mary Shelley – while it isn’t strictly historical, its gothic elements explore how literary works so often reflect on their historical context.

Novels like these bring together history and literature to provide 8th-grade homeschool students with a fascinating look at times gone by. Working your way through this reading list with your child will help them take important lessons away from each piece that they can apply to both their studies and life in general.

8th-Grade Reading List: Homeschool Literature Guides

Finding suitable 8th-grade online literature guides can be challenging, especially if you are homeschooling your child. When selecting reading material for an 8th-grade student, it is important to assess their reading level before making a selection. You may also want to consider whether or not Common Sense Media suggests the student should read a book at their current grade level.

Select books that are appropriate for your 8th-grade student’s maturity level and comprehension.

When choosing literature books, be sure to look for books that emphasize real-world issues and situations, as well as those that contain positive moral lessons. Additionally, you may want to consult other parents who have dealt with similar topics when selecting reading material for your child.

Lastly, remember to track both the progress of your child in terms of reading level and the number of book choices they make throughout the school year. Doing so will provide an indication of their overall mastery of literature while providing insight into which types of literature they prefer most. With this information in hand, you will have all the resources necessary to create tailored instruction that fits the needs of your 8th grader in order to successfully complete their study of literature within a homeschool setting!

Parents, please check out Common Sense Media , or ask your homeschool friends for insight. It’s up to you to decide if these books are a good fit for your family.

Eighth grade reading list: middle school favorites.

A great book deserves an excellent literature guide for you and your middle schooler. Find them here!

• The Hobbit  by J.R.R. Tolkien: A classic fantasy novel about a hobbit who goes on an adventure to reclaim his lost home.
• The Hunger Games  by Suzanne Collins: A dystopian novel about a girl who is forced to fight to the death in an annual televised event.
• Night  by Elie Wiesel: A memoir about the author’s experiences as a teenager in Auschwitz.
• Fahrenheit 451  by Ray Bradbury: A dystopian novel about a society where books are banned and burned.
• To Kill a Mockingbird  by Harper Lee: A classic American novel about a young girl who witnesses the trial of a black man accused of rape.
• Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry  by Mildred D. Taylor: A historical novel about a black family living in Mississippi during the Great Depression.
• Pilgrim’s Progress   by John Bunyan: An allegorical novel about a man’s journey to heaven.

And of course, search for your favorite version of these books on Amazon.com.

These books are all challenging and thought-provoking, and they will help your child to develop a love of reading. Check common sense Media Reviews here .

8th-grade Reading List: Download

Combine your 8th-Grade Reading List literature with exciting history

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The Best Books for Your 8th Grade Summer Reading List (2023)

Send your 8th graders off to summer with this summer reading book. Full of a variety of books that will keep your middle schoolers reading and ready for high school in the fall.

This list is curated by a librarian and includes middle grade books from a variety of genres, including a few graphic novels that are written for middle grades.

Your students will learn lessons from these books, develop their literacy skills, but mostly they will have fun reading this collection. Help your eighth graders spend some time away from video games and screen time by giving them this list of book recommendations.

1. Everything Sad is Untrue * by Daniel Nayeri

Genre : Biography

At the front of a middle school classroom in Oklahoma, a boy named Khosrou (whom everyone calls “Daniel”) stands, trying to tell a story. His story. But no one believes a word he says. To them he is a dark-skinned, hairy-armed boy with a big butt whose lunch smells funny; who makes things up and talks about poop too much.

But Khosrou’s stories, stretching back years, and decades, and centuries, are beautiful, and terrifying.

Author Daniel Nayeri weaves a tale of Khosrou trying to save his own life: to stake his claim to the truth.

2. The Elephant Girl by James Patterson and Ellen Banda-Aaku

Genre : Realistic Fiction

Clever, sensitive Jama likes elephants better than people. While her classmates gossip—especially about the new boy, Leku—twelve-year-old Jama takes refuge at the watering hole outside her village. Where a baby elephant becomes her best friend. When Mbegu’s mother, frightened by poachers, stampedes, Jama and Mgebu are blamed for two deaths—one elephant and one human. Now Leku, whose mysterious and imposing father is head ranger at the conservancy, may be their only lifeline. Inspired by true events, The Elephant Girl is a great book about the bonds between creatures and the power of belonging.

3. The Ogress and the Orphans by Kelly Barnhill

Genre : Fantasy

Stone-in-the-Glen has fallen on hard times. The people put their faith in the Mayor, a dazzling fellow who promises he alone can help. After all, he is a famous dragon slayer. Only the clever children of the Orphan House and the kindly Ogress at the edge of town can see how dire the town’s problems are.

When a child goes missing, all eyes turn to the Ogress. The Orphans know this can’t be.

But how can the Orphans tell the story of the Ogress’s goodness to people who refuse to listen? And how can they make their deluded neighbors see the real villain in their midst?

4. Finally Seen by Kelly Yang

My sister got to grow up with my parents. Me? I grew up with postcards from my parents.

When ten-year-old Lina Gao steps off the plane in Los Angeles, it’s her first time in America and the first time seeing her parents and her little sister in five years! She’s been waiting for this moment every day while she lived with her grandmother in Beijing, getting teased by kids at school who called her “left behind girl.” Finally , her parents are ready for her to join their fabulous life in America! Except, it’s not exactly like in the postcards. A good book for every middle schooler to read about the difficulties of immigrating to another country.

5. The Pennymores and the Curse of the Invisible Quill by Eric Koester

When her brother vanishes in the night, along with all she thought to be true of magic, Parker Pennymore must unmask family secrets, travel far beyond the castle walls, and convince her sisters Quinn and Aven to break a few laws along the way – but what’s a hero’s journey without a little rebellion?

Created first as a bedtime story, The Pennymores explores a world where all writing has been banned for centuries. But when an unstoppable enemy returns threatening the destroy their world, the Pennymores must set off on a quest taking them inside hidden mystical realms, confronting ancient challenges, and forcing them to step closer to the heroes they are destined to be.

6. Amari and the Night Brothers by B. B. Alston

Quinton Peters was the golden boy of the Rosewood low-income housing projects, receiving full scholarship offers to two different Ivy League schools. When he mysteriously goes missing, his little sister, 13-year-old Amari Peters, can’t understand why it’s not a bigger deal. Why isn’t his story all over the news? And why do the police automatically assume he was into something illegal?

Then Amari discovers a ticking briefcase in her brother’s old closet. A briefcase meant for her eyes only. There was far more to Quinton, it seems, than she ever knew. He’s left her a nomination for a summer tryout at the secretive Bureau of Supernatural Affairs.

7. Ground Zero by Alan Gratz

Genre : Historical Fiction

It’s September 11, 2001. Brandon, a 9-year-old boy, goes to work for the day with his dad . . . at the World Trade Center in New York City. When two planes hit the towers, Brandon and his father are trapped inside a fiery nightmare as terror and confusion swirl around them. Can they escape — and what will the world be like when they do?

In present-day Afghanistan, Reshmina dreams of peace and unity. When she ends up harboring a wounded young American soldier, she and her entire family are put in mortal danger. But Reshmina also learns something surprising about the roots of this endless war.

8. When You Wish Upon a Star by Elizabeth Lim

“Starlight, star bright, first star I see tonight . . . ” so begins the wish that changes everything—for Geppetto, for the Blue Fairy, and for a little puppet named Pinocchio. The Blue Fairy isn’t supposed to grant wishes in the small village of Pariva, but something about this one awakens some long-buried flicker within. Perhaps it’s the hope she senses beneath the old man’s loneliness.

Or maybe it’s the fact that long ago, before she was the Blue Fairy, she was a young woman named Chiara from this very village, one with a simple wish: to help others find happiness.

9. Bea Wolf by Zach Weinersmith

Genre : Classic, Graphic Novel

Listen! Hear a tale of mallow-munchers and warriors who answer candy’s clarion call!

Somewhere in a generic suburb stands Treeheart, a kid-forged sanctuary. One day, these brave warriors find their fun cut short by their nefarious neighbor Grindle.

As the guardian of gloom lays siege to Treeheart, scores of kids suddenly find themselves transformed into pimply teenagers and sullen adults! The survivors of the onslaught cry out for a savior.

They call for Bea Wolf.

10. The Firefly Summer by Morgan Matson

For as long as Ryanna Stuart can remember, her summers have been spent with her father and his new wife. Just the three of them, structured, planned, and quiet. But this summer is different. This summer, she’s received a letter from her grandparents—grandparents neither she nor her dad have spoken to since her mom’s death—inviting her to stay with them at an old summer camp in the Poconos.

Over the course of one unforgettable summer—filled with s’mores and swimming, adventure and fun, and even a decades-old mystery to solve—Ryanna discovers a whole new side of herself and that, sometimes, the last place you expected to be is the place where you really belong.

11. Grounded by Aisha Saeed, S. K. Ali, Jamilah Thompkins-Bigelow, and Huda Al-Marashi

Genre : Realistic Fiction, Graphic Novel

When a thunderstorm grounds all flights following a huge Muslim convention, four unlikely kids are thrown together. Feek is stuck babysitting his younger sister, but he’d rather be writing a poem that’s good enough for his dad, a famous poet and rapper. Hanna is intent on finding a lost cat in the airport—and also on avoiding a conversation with her dad about him possibly remarrying. Sami is struggling with his anxiety and worried that he’ll miss the karate tournament that he’s trained so hard for. And Nora has to deal with the pressure of being the daughter of a prominent congresswoman, when all she really wants to do is make fun NokNok videos. These kids don’t seem to have much in common—yet.

Told in alternating points of view, Grounded tells the story of one unexpected night that will change these kids forever.

12. Not An Easy Win by Chrystal D. Giles

Nothing’s gone right for Lawrence since he had to move from Charlotte to Larenville, North Carolina, to live with his granny. When Lawrence ends up in one too many fights at his new school, he gets expelled. The fight wasn’t his fault, but since his pop’s been gone, it feels like no one listens to what Lawrence has to say.

Instead of going to school, Lawrence starts spending his days at the rec center, helping out a neighbor who runs a chess program.

Lawrence doesn’t know anything about chess, but something about the center—and the kids there—feels right.

Summer Reading in Your Classroom

You may not have much control over assignments for your soon-to-be future or upcoming students. But that doesn’t mean you can’t make the idea of a summer reading list fun. Head over to our Teachers Pay Teachers store to grab our free Summer Reading BINGO to encourage reading this summer. Or have them create book lists with their own books as a final activity.

Acacia is passionate about literacy and believes literacy should be at the core of every lesson. She is currently a college librarian and mom. She worked for 10+ years as an English teacher and teacher-librarian.

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Please Note: A Beka does not sell their materials to Exodus Books. The following overview is meant to help you evaluate A Beka as a curriculum, and give you some other options to consider as well.

Designed as supplements to A Beka’s reading and literature programs, these are simply reprints of older books for students to read and report on. There are no teacher editions, no review questions, and only some of them have any kind of introduction or forward; a few are lightly illustrated.

To be used for middle and high school students, these books are either explicitly Christian or illustrate important virtues like perseverance and courage. Many are biographies of key figures from Elizabeth I to David Livingstone to Booker T. Washington. Others are historical fiction like The Talisman by Sir Walter Scott or On His Own by Horatio Alger, Jr.

Texts vary in length, but all of them are unabridged book length. A Beka calls them Book Report Books since students are to read them and write a précis of plot and characters as well as analysis of the book’s themes. There is nothing specifically directing this sort of assignment in any of the texts, however, so you could just as well use other books of your own choosing for the same purpose.

If you’re concerned about the content of your kids’ reading material these are safe choices, chosen as much for their literary quality as for their moral nature. There is also plenty of history—in the biographies it is straightforward, in the historical fiction it is present but less blatant. For educational and character-building literature that you won’t have to screen beforehand, these are good choices.

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Reading Middle Grade

Books for Kids and Grown Ups

Books for 8th Graders Who Don’t Like to Read

Kids who profess to hate reading can befuddle parents and educators who LOVE reading (what do you mean “reading is boring?!), but it’s the way they feel. While we can’t make every child a voracious reader , we can help them occasionally find an enjoyable read. That’s the goal of this list of books for 8th graders who hate reading. Since there’s no one-size-fits-all for recommending books, I’ve collected high-interest books for kids with different interests and reading preferences. Hopefully, this is a great jump-off point for you when recommending books for 8th graders who don’t like to read.

Want a printable version?  Join  our Patreon community  to get access to printable versions of all our posts.

Great Books for 8th Graders Who Don’t Like to Read

Here are some fast-paced, mostly short, high-interest books for 8th graders who don’t like to read:

If They Like Realistic Fiction

Published: January 24, 2023

After his stepdad goes to jail for violating his parole and hitting his mom, Trev feels like he needs to get bigger and stronger to protect them when his stepdad is released. But is fighting back the best way? This is a slim, poignant look at what life is like for some kids and why it’s easy to feel like throwing hands is the most effective way to stay safe. The author shows that with community and education, there can be more far-reaching positive effects.

The Crossover

Published: March 18, 2014

This is an utterly moving verse novel about brothers, basketball, and family. It flies by so quickly and has such an engaging writing style.

Published:  June 28, 2022

Four eighth-grade buddies and a new tag-along (whom they’re reluctant to include) discover a posh underground bunker in the wake of a hurricane in their small town. CJ, Evan, Jason, Mitchell, and Ricky quickly begin to hang out at the fort for different reasons. One of the boys is escaping an abusive step-parent, another is dodging his big brother and his bully of a friend, yet another loves to study there, while one just wants to stop hiding the hideout from his new girlfriend. When things get intense for the boys, their safe space becomes at risk of exposure — but maybe that’s the only way they can stay safe? This is a realistic, suspense-filled, and heartwarming middle grade book about male friendships, history, and domestic violence.

Published:  August 30, 2016

This book is about Castle Crenshaw (aka Ghost), who has PTSD from a dad who tried to fire a gun at him as a child. When he meets Coach and the rest of the team, he can finally harness his talent as a sprinter and stop running away from his problems. I love how powerful these kids’ stories are (in the  Track  series) and that they’re super short — this one is only 185 pages long.

For Romance Fans

Bubble Trouble

Published: July 18, 2023

Since her mom died during the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s been just Chloe and her dad. She worries about their finances, so when she has the chance to go on a school trip to Broadway, she’s hesitant to tell him. On a good note, there’s a boy she maybe likes? He works at a boba tea place in her neighborhood, and things are going well until an altercation at the shop ends with Chloe being banned from the boba tea place. What unfolds is a string of chaotic, surprising, and satisfying events, including a boba-making business, two lost lovers reuniting, and a new furry family member. Bubble Trouble  is a lighthearted, feel-good middle grade romance — the exact kind constantly sought out by kids in this age group.

Lunar New Year Love Story

Published: January 9, 2024

The art in this book about a girl with a tortured family history where love is concerned is phenomenal, and it is also a sweet YA romance. I loved the plot and found it engaging despite how long this book is. It’s my first time reading this author, so if you love his work, you’ll probably enjoy this. Eighth grade readers who love romance, fantasy, and the graphic novel format will enjoy this book as it tackles several important themes (parental abandonment, identity, alcoholism) sensitively.

Keeping Pace

Published: April 9, 2024

This 5-star romance about two overachieving rivals is perfect for tweens and young teens. Grace feels like being smart is all she has. She doesn’t seem to good at social situations and can’t figure out fashion and styling like her friends. So she holds on to book smarts and finds worth in her grades — and in competing with her former best friend, Jonah. Their friendship exploded after his dad’s sudden illness and death. Now, it’s the end of 8th grade, and Jonah’s won the coveted top scholar spot, leaving Grace with no raison d’etre. She decides to compete in a half marathon that she finds out Jonah is training for, so she has one last chance to beat him, and she ends up learning a lot about what really matters in life. The romance is sweet and swoony, and Grace and Jonah’s dialogue is so authentic and left me an adult with heart eyes while feeling age-appropriate.

If They Like Mysteries, Thrillers & True Crime

A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder

Published: February 4, 2020

British teen Pippa Fitz-Amobi has decided to do her senior capstone project on a local murder case that was closed 5 years ago. Five years ago, high schooler Andie Bell went missing, and her boyfriend Sal Singh sent his father a text admitting to the crime, after which he was found in what seemed like an apparent suicide. But Pip doesn’t buy it. With the help of Sal’s younger brother, Ravi, she investigates the events surrounding Andie’s disappearance and Sal’s murder. This is a thrilling teen murder mystery free of language and sexual content, with a clever, likable protagonist. I’d feel comfortable handing this to readers 13 and up.

The Liars Society

Published: February 6, 2024

Weatherby is a new kid to the Boston School on a sailing scholarship: Old school phone booths, friends with kids who go to the country club, a famed school secret society… and a boy, Jack, who seems to hate her guts. When Jack, Weatherby and three of their friends are contacted via an anonymous message, they think they’re getting invited to the famed Liars Society, only to unravel a deep secret about the Hunt family that involves Weatherby. Plenty of of character setup and worldbuilding make for a slightly slower start but Gerber’s writing is engaging as always and the second half of the book is wonderfully fast-paced. Middle schoolers looking for a tightly plotted mystery with characters to root for will love this one.

Averil Offline

Published: February 13, 2024

Averil’s mom and several parents of kids in her school and neighborhood use an app called Ruby Slippers to track their kids’ location, request video and photos from them on demand, and generally monitor their behavior and actions all day and Averil and her classmate Max are sick of it. Especially when they find out that the app will be updated soon to let parents remotely turn on their kids’ cameras at will. Both kids make a plot to ditch a camping trip and find the original app developer, Rider Wollybeck, in hopes of asking him to rescind the update. This hijinks-filled story is reminiscent of classic stories where kids run away to save the day as Max and Averil stay on their town’s college campus, eating at the cafeteria and sleeping in the library for the 2-3 days needed to accomplish their plan. I love the gentle mystery, STEM angle, and theme of childhood autonomy this book explores. I think it has major kid appeal — and it’s only 208 pages long!

For Nonfiction Fans

Born a Crime (Young Readers Edition)

Published: April 9, 2019

Trevor Noah’s life so far has been an adventure. This book is a brilliant way to tell his story and that of his mother, from his years as a mischief-making child to his woes in the love department and then his survival of abuse at home. Any 8th grader who loves Trevor Noah, comedy, and memoirs will enjoy this young readers’ adaptation.

If They Enjoy Graphic Novels & Memoirs

Published: August 2, 2022

Five different students have yet to complete their community service for a school offense and must explain why (as well as what they did) to their principal. Thus, these five seemingly socially invisible kids each share from their perspectives how they got in trouble — and readers are definitely in for a ride. There’s George, the smart kid who is Latino but can’t speak Spanish; Sara, the loner; Dayara, the tough kid, Miguel, the baseball player; and Nico, the rich kid. The story is told in Spanish and English. Invisible  is a powerful, heartwarming graphic novel about immigration, homelessness, racism, and finding your tribe.

Dragon Hoops

Published: March 17, 2020

But Gene doesn’t get sports. As a kid, his friends called him “Stick” and every basketball game he played ended in pain. He lost interest in basketball long ago, but at the high school where he now teaches, it’s all anyone can talk about. The men’s varsity team, the Dragons, is having a phenomenal season that’s been decades in the making. Each victory brings them closer to their ultimate goal: the California State Championships. Once Gene gets to know these young all-stars, he realizes that their story is just as thrilling as anything he’s seen on a comic book page. He knows he has to follow this epic to its end. What he doesn’t know yet is that this season is not only going to change the Dragons’s lives, but his own life as well.

For Survival & Dystopia Fans

Published: January 12, 2021

Alone  is Megan E. Freeman’s debut survival middle-grade novel in verse. It follows 12-year-old Maddie, who gets abandoned by some twist of fate when her entire town is mysteriously evacuated. Left alone with no human in sight, she bonds with a Rottweiler named George, who is one of many abandoned pets. Soon after, they lose power and then water, and Maddie has to fend for herself using a variety of ingenious means and the town resources at her disposal, including an empty library, grocery store, neighbors’ homes — you get the picture. This is a well-written middle-grade survival novel with a tenacious protagonist and engaging plot. I would definitely recommend this to fans of adventure and survival stories, as well as those who enjoy a good verse novel.

The Hunger Games

Published: October 1, 2024

I loved following Katniss, Peeta, and Gale through all three books in this series. It’s set in a dystopian world ruled by The Capitol. Each year, The Hunger Games are held where one raffle-drawn contestant from each of the surrounding poorer districts competes (fights through life-threatening challenges) to win a prize. The only problem is that losing means death. Book one kicks off with 16-year-old Katniss volunteering to take her little sister’s place in the Games. I was HOOKED to this book and the other two in the series when I read it.

Published: May 2, 2011

Beatrice Prior’s society is divided into five factions—Candor (the honest), Abnegation (the selfless), Dauntless (the brave), Amity (the peaceful), and Erudite (the intelligent). Beatrice must choose between staying with her Abnegation family and transferring factions. Her choice will shock her community and herself. But the newly christened Tris also has a secret, one she’s determined to keep hidden, because in this world, what makes you different makes you dangerous.

Just Keep Walking

Published: March 5, 2024

Jo is still reeling from her parents’ divorce and her father’s decision to leave them for his girlfriend and her family. To prove that she and her mom can handle life without him, Jo and her mom embark on the 100-mile Lake Superior hike with their backpacks, dehydrated food, tents, and a book (for Jo). As the two weather hilly terrain, minor injuries, wild animals, new friendships, disappointments, and adverse weather, they find the inner strength to move on and to forgive Tim, Jo’s father. I really enjoyed this book. It made me want to pack up and go hiking or camping. Downing writes authentically from personal experience about the highs and mishaps of the outdoors, celebrating the solitude, inner strength, and perseverance that being on a hike can foster. Jo’s emotional struggles and humor bring a richness and levity that make this one an enjoyable pageturner.

There they are: 17 books to entice 8th graders who say they don’t like to read. Which other books do you recommend for this group of kids? I’d love to know.

More Books for 8th Graders

• Romance books for 8th graders
• Best books for 8th graders
• Realistic fiction for 8th graders

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• About Afoma Umesi

Afoma Umesi is the founder and editor of Reading Middle Grade where she curates book lists and writes book reviews for kids of all ages. Her favorite genre to read is contemporary realistic fiction and she'll never say no to a graphic novel.

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