Dear Reader,

Of the 64 middle grade and young adult books I have read in 2023 (so far), I selected 23 of the best ones to feature in this newsletter. Now I'm taking it a step further: here are the 5 books that are absolute must-haves for your middle school classroom library. Don't worry high school teachers—your curated list is coming next week.

Without further ado, 5 books to add to your classroom library...

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​H​ands by Torrey Maldonado: Your secret weapon for engaging reluctant readers. 136 pages of relevance.

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​Nic Blake and the Remarkables: The Manifestor Prophecy by Angie T​homas: A wonderfully creative fantasy world that tackles racism and features a Black girl as its hero.

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​Door of No Return by Kwame Alexander: A heartbreaking but human-first narrative of the horrors of the international slave trade.

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​Sir Callie and the Champions of Helston by Esme Symes-Smith: For helping students understand non-binary identities while also treating them to a magical world.

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​Aniana Del Mar Jumps In by Jasminne Mendez: For representing all of our resilient students who seek to thrive despite chronic illness.

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Have your students read and loved any of these books yet? I'd love to hear what they think—and which ones you're hoping to add!

Have a good one and learn everything you can,

Hannah

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