In an era where digital distractions reign supreme, a recent study by the National Literacy Trust found that only 25.8% of children and young people read daily in their free time.1
But never fear, book lovers! We’re here to reignite the passion for reading with a curated list of timeless classics that will transport middle schoolers to worlds beyond their wildest imaginations.
These 20 books have stood the test of time and continue to captivate young minds everywhere.
1. The Hobbit: Mischief & Magic in Middle-earth
J.R.R. Tolkien’s beloved classic follows the adventures of Bilbo Baggins as he embarks on a perilous quest with a group of dwarves to reclaim their treasure from the fearsome dragon Smaug.
This enchanting tale of courage, friendship, and self-discovery is a must-read for every middle schooler.
2. Julius Caesar: Et Tu, Brute? A Tale of Betrayal
Shakespeare’s timeless play explores themes of loyalty, ambition, and the consequences of political upheaval.
As middle schoolers navigate the complexities of friendships and social dynamics, Julius Caesar serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of integrity and the perils of misplaced trust.
3. Uncle Tom’s Cabin: A Journey through Injustice
Harriet Beecher Stowe’s groundbreaking novel sheds light on the harsh realities of slavery in 19th-century America.
Through the eyes of Uncle Tom and other enslaved individuals, middle schoolers can gain a deeper understanding of this dark chapter in history and the ongoing fight for equality.
4. Animal Farm: Pigs, Power & Propaganda
George Orwell’s allegorical novella explores the dangers of totalitarianism and the manipulation of truth.
As middle schoolers begin to engage with the world around them, Animal Farm encourages critical thinking and helps them recognize the importance of questioning authority.
5. The Catcher in the Rye: Navigating the Perils of Adolescence
J.D. Salinger’s iconic novel follows the rebellious Holden Caulfield as he grapples with the challenges of growing up and the phoniness of the adult world.
Middle schoolers will find solace in Holden’s relatable struggles and gain insight into the complexities of adolescence.
6. To Kill a Mockingbird: Southern Gothic & Mockingbirds
Harper Lee’s Pulitzer Prize-winning novel tackles racial injustice and moral courage in the Deep South. Through the eyes of young Scout Finch, middle schoolers will learn valuable lessons about empathy, integrity, and the power of standing up for what’s right.
7. 1984: Dystopian Dilemmas & Thought Control
Another masterpiece by George Orwell, 1984 depicts a chilling future where individual freedom is suppressed by an all-powerful government.
As middle schoolers navigate an increasingly complex world, this novel encourages them to question the status quo and fight for their beliefs.
8. Of Mice & Men: Of Mice, Men & the American Dream
John Steinbeck’s poignant novella explores the bonds of friendship and the shattered dreams of the Great Depression era. Middle schoolers will be moved by the story of George and Lennie, two migrant workers who cling to the hope of a better life in the face of adversity.
9. Harry Potter & the Sorcerer’s Stone: Wizardry, Wit & Coming of Age
J.K. Rowling’s beloved series has captured the hearts of millions, and for good reason.
The first installment introduces middle schoolers to the enchanting world of Hogwarts, where young Harry Potter discovers his magical abilities and learns the value of friendship, bravery, and self-discovery.
10. Lord of the Flies: Survival & Savagery on a Deserted Island
William Golding’s provocative novel explores the inherent darkness of human nature as a group of young boys find themselves stranded on a deserted island.
As middle schoolers grapple with the complexities of social hierarchies and moral dilemmas, Lord of the Flies serves as a powerful allegory for the challenges of growing up.
11. The Giver: Conformity, Control & the Cost of Perfection
Lois Lowry’s thought-provoking dystopian novel follows Jonas, a young boy living in a seemingly perfect society.
As he begins his training as the Receiver of Memory, he discovers the dark secrets lurking beneath the surface and must decide whether to embrace individuality or conform to the status quo.
12. The Outsiders: Greasers, Socs & the Search for Belonging
S.E. Hinton’s timeless tale explores the rivalry between two groups of teenagers, the working-class Greasers and the wealthy Socs. Through the eyes of Ponyboy Curtis, middle schoolers learn valuable lessons about loyalty, friendship, and the dangers of judging others based on appearances.
13. Bridge to Terabithia: Coping with Loss
Katherine Paterson’s heartwarming novel follows the friendship between Jess Aarons and Leslie Burke as they create a magical kingdom called Terabithia. When tragedy strikes, Jess must learn to cope with loss and find the strength to carry on.
14. The Wind in the Willows: Mole, Rat & the Joys of Friendship
Kenneth Grahame’s enchanting classic follows the adventures of Mole, Rat, Badger, and the irrepressible Mr. Toad.
Middle schoolers will delight in the whimsical tales of friendship, loyalty, and the importance of appreciating life’s simple pleasures.
15. A Wrinkle in Time: Tesseracts, Time Travel
Madeleine L’Engle’s beloved science fiction novel follows Meg Murry as she embarks on a cosmic journey to rescue her father.
Along with her brother Charles Wallace and friend Calvin O’Keefe, Meg discovers the power of love and the importance of embracing one’s uniqueness.
16. The Secret Garden: Nature, Nurture & the Healing Power of Friendship
Frances Hodgson Burnett’s classic novel tells the story of Mary Lennox, a spoiled orphan who discovers a hidden garden at her uncle’s estate.
As she nurtures the garden back to life, Mary learns the importance of friendship, compassion, and the transformative power of nature.
17. Hatchet: Finding Inner Strength
Gary Paulsen’s gripping adventure novel follows Brian Robeson, a teenage boy stranded in the Canadian wilderness after a plane crash. Armed only with a hatchet, Brian must learn to survive on his own and discover his inner strength in the face of adversity.
18. Holes: Redemption & the Power of Friendship
Louis Sachar’s witty and engaging novel follows Stanley Yelnats, a boy wrongfully sent to a juvenile detention center. As Stanley uncovers the mystery surrounding his family’s curse, he learns valuable lessons about friendship, redemption, and the importance of standing up for what’s right.
19. The Phantom Tollbooth: Wordplay & Wisdom
Norton Juster’s imaginative classic follows Milo, a bored young boy who embarks on a fantastical journey through the Kingdom of Wisdom. Filled with clever wordplay and timeless lessons, The Phantom Tollbooth encourages middle schoolers to embrace their curiosity and find joy in learning.
20. The Westing Game: Mystery, Intrigue & the Power of Deduction
Ellen Raskin’s clever mystery novel follows sixteen heirs as they compete to solve the puzzle surrounding the death of eccentric millionaire Samuel W. Westing. As the characters unravel the clues, middle schoolers will delight in the twists and turns while learning the importance of critical thinking and collaboration.
Source:
1. National Literacy Trust
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Martha A. Lavallie
Martha is a journalist with close to a decade of experience in uncovering and reporting on the most compelling stories of our time. Passionate about staying ahead of the curve, she specializes in shedding light on trending topics and captivating global narratives. Her insightful articles have garnered acclaim, making her a trusted voice in today's dynamic media landscape.
