Best Books for 6th Graders

In a world where the people of the Protectorate leave a baby as an offering to a witch, one year a baby is filled with extraordinary magic. The witch, Xan, decides to raise the girl as her own, but as her thirteenth birthday approaches, Luna's magic begins to emerge with dangerous consequences. With deadly birds and a young man determined to kill the witch, tensions rise in a captivating novel that won the 2017 Newbery Medal.

Embark on a thrilling journey through space and time with Meg Murry, her brother Charles Wallace, and their friend Calvin as they search for Meg's missing father, a scientist who vanished while working on a secret government project involving a mysterious concept called a tesseract. A Wrinkle in Time is a unique and captivating story that will leave readers on the edge of their seats. Winner of the Newberry Medal in 1963, this book is a must-read for fans of science fiction and adventure.

In a future where having more than two children is illegal, Luke has lived his entire life in isolation and fear as an illegal third child. But when Luke sees another shadow child like himself, Jen, he is faced with a dangerous decision. Will he join Jen in her mission to come out of hiding or continue to live his life in fear? From the start of the Shadow Children series, Margaret Peterson Haddix explores the consequences of a strict government enforcing strict population control.

A young girl named Ellie is tired of being shamed about her weight and tries to cope with the "Fat Girl Rules." Her safe space is in the water where she feels weightless and can take up as much space as she wants. Ellie finds allies in her dad, therapist, and new neighbor who support her as she learns to embrace herself and let go of the rules.

A young boy and his family move to Alcatraz Island, where his dad works as an electrician for the prison. He joins a community of other kids whose parents work on the island and live surrounded by criminals. Life is anything but ordinary in this unique and unforgettable setting.

Exploring a seemingly perfect society, this novel follows twelve-year-old Jonas as he uncovers the disturbing truths that lie beneath the surface. Only with his new position as the Receiver is he able to grasp the complex and dark realities of his utopian world.

Follow Holling Hoodhood, a seventh grader, on his quest to survive the school year of 1967-68. With a father who is more focused on business than family, a new teacher who seems to hate him, and a growing interest in Shakespeare, Holling must navigate the changes in his life. As the Vietnam War brings turmoil to his community, Holling learns about loyalty, respect, and standing up for what's right from an unexpected source. Gary D. Schmidt's Newbery Honor-wining novel is both witty and compelling.

Set during the turmoil of World War 2, this inspiring tale of resilience follows young Ada as she escapes her one-room apartment to be with her brother. As she embarks on a new life with a caring caretaker, Ada teaches herself to read and ride a pony, all while keeping watch for German spies. A heart-warming story of family and identity, and a must-read for fans of Number the Stars.