2026-2027 Middle School Books

VA READS Middle School Selections 2026-2027

Almost Sunset by Wahab Algarmi ISBN: 9780063355668

During Ramadan, seventh grader Hassan struggles to balance school, soccer, gaming, and family obligations while keeping his fasting a secret from friends and teachers. As the pressure builds and consequences mount, Hassan learns to open up, finding support and a deeper appreciation for his faith and identity.

Blood in the Water by Tiffany D. Jackson ISBN: 9781338849912

Twelve-year-old Kaylani McKinnon feels out of place during a summer on Martha’s Vineyard, where she hopes to sharpen her social justice skills while coping with her father’s incarceration. When a local teen’s death sparks rumors and suspicion, Kaylani teams up with new allies to investigate, uncovering secrets that put them in increasing danger.

Boy 2.0 by Tracey Baptiste ISBN:9781643753812

Thirteen-year-old Coal, a foster youth grieving the loss of a hoped-for adoption, discovers he can turn invisible after surviving a violent encounter. As he searches for answers about his powers, Coal must learn to trust his new family and friends while evading a powerful tech company determined to control his abilities.

Coach by Jason Reynolds ISBN:9798347102372

Before he became Coach, Otie Brody was a young sprinter inspired by track legend Carl Lewis and determined to follow in his father’s footsteps. When a prized pair of Jordans and his father suddenly disappear, Otie is left searching for answers, uncovering truths that challenge everything he thought he knew.

How to Say Goodbye in Cuban by Daniel Miyares ISBN: 9780593568293

In this graphic memoir, the author recounts his father’s childhood in Cuba, from a carefree life in the countryside to upheaval following the Cuban Revolution. As political changes force the loss of their home, livelihood, and eventually their country, Carlos must find courage and resilience as his family prepares for an uncertain future in America.

It’s All or Nothing Vale by Andrea Beatriz Arango ISBN: 9780593810927

After a serious leg injury, seventh grader Vale is determined to return to fencing but struggles with pain and the loss of her former strength. As she navigates rivalry, new feelings, and personal expectations, Vale learns to redefine success and embrace who she is becoming.

Not Nothing by Gayle Forman ISBN 9781665943277

Twelve-year-old Alex takes a job at a retirement home to avoid juvenile detention, where he meets Josey, a 107-year-old Holocaust survivor who hasn’t spoken in years. As Josey begins to share his story, the two form an unexpected bond, helping each other confront loss, anger, and the possibility of healing.

Please Pay Attention by Jamie Sumner ISBN: 9781665956079

After a school shooting changes her life forever, sixth grader Bea struggles to process grief, trauma, and the helplessness she felt in the moment. Through therapeutic horseback riding, she begins to heal, finding her voice and the courage to move forward and advocate for change.

Refugee: The Graphic Novel by Alan Gratz ISBN: 9781338733976

This graphic novel adaptation follows three young refugees, Josef, Isabel, and Mahmoud, as they flee danger in Nazi Germany, 1990s Cuba, and modern-day Syria. Though separated by time and place, their harrowing journeys reveal powerful connections and the shared struggle for safety and belonging.

I Wish I Was A Baller by Amar Shah ISBN: 9781546110514

In this graphic memoir, fourteen-year-old Amar Shah pursues his dream of becoming a sports journalist and lands incredible access to the NBA, including encounters with stars like Shaq and Michael Jordan. As he navigates fame-adjacent experiences, Amar also faces the everyday challenges of high school, friendships, and identity.