Superpowered by Recommended by Ms. Luo: "Our book from MS Parent Coffee 2021. Highly recommend to parents and students."
Spectacle by Recommended by former ASD teacher, Mr Hoiseth: "Great for Grade 8 who enjoy History."
The Calvin and Hobbes Tenth Anniversary Book by Recommended by Mr. Kumbier: "The comics are funny, the artwork is creative, and it captures the magic of childhood in a way that few other books have done. It's my favorite comic because it makes me laugh and think at the same time."
The Inheritance Games by Recommended by Ms. Reilly: " The book moves quickly around a strong and intelligent female character. Students who enjoy a mystery as well as championing an underdog."
Project Hail Mary by Recommended by Ms. DaCosta, "Anyone who enjoyed the movie 'the martian' might enjoy this book by the same author."
Love Is a Revolution by Recommended by Mr. Grabill, " This may be one of my new favorite YA novels. Not only was it humorous, but is a much needed narrative around self-love. It is a story about a main character who grows to accept the entirety of herself, pushing back against the expectations of her peers and society. An entertaining and insightful read for anyone who picks it up."
The Eye of the World / Book 1 by Recommended by Mr. Gohr: "I love fantasy books and this is one of the great ones. I think it's geared towards a slightly older audience (some violent scenes described), but is thoroughly enjoyable."
Ender's Game by Recommended by Ms. Hammonds: "Love this book because it immediately draws you into the futuristic world and shows the capabilities of teens who are often underestimated. Great characters and plot twists. Also is a series and has a great movie to follow! Long time favorite and a book that you end up re-reading! Perfect for these times!"
Ink and Bone by Recommended by Ms. Woods: "I think it is so fascinating! The book is basicially set in the future but it is so different than what our future will look like. I think fans of dystopian novels as well as sci fi or fantasy readers will really enjoy this."
The Hate U Give by Recommended by former ASD Teacher, Mrs. Jones: "This is a powerful novel about a young girl who is witness to the shooting of her friend by a police officer. What I liked about the book is that it explores so many themes that are not only important, but very current. I recommend this book because there are so many ideas and issues presented that we grapple with everyday. The novel has mature themes and some use of profanity, so it would appeal to a more mature reader."
Orbiting Jupiter by Recommended by former ASD teacher, Mrs. Jones: "The story is for a more mature reader because of the subject matter, but it is not inappropriate, and the reading level is easy. It is a book that most students end up finishing in one night because it is a short read and because the story is compelling. Keep a box of tissues handy - it's a tear jerker."
Walk Two Moons: a Harper Classic by Recommended by Mr. Johnston, " An Awesome book with lots of plot twists."
Amanda in Spain by Recommended by Ms. Anki, " Because it is a wonderful way to learn about culture. All MS students that know some Spanish, study Spanish or speak Spanish will enjoy reading this book."
Ali Cross by Recommended by Mrs. Reilly: "James Patterson's writing grows with you. If you like Ali Cross, as you get older you can read the books about his father Alex Cross. Students who like mystery and adventure will like this book. "
Marcus Vega Doesn't Speak Spanish by Recommended by former ASD teacher, Mrs. Franks: "This book is funny, relevant, and heartwarming. It may be relatable to people who have family members with disabilities and kids who navigate living in multiple cultures."
Cinder by Recommended by former ASD teacher, Mrs. Franks: "This series is full of action and adventure. It's an interesting take on what the future of earth could look like and how power dynamics could change as technology advances. At first, I thought the incorporation of familiar fairytale characters (Cinderella, Rapunzel, Snow White) would be cheesy, but it wasn't! If you like fantasy, the future, courageous characters, political relations, and social equality, you'll love this series!"
From the Mixed-up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler by Recommended by former ASD teacher, Mrs. Robertson: "Very fun and interesting read, well paced and realistic interaction between siblings. Easy to read because it was well written and not a complex story."
The Terrible Thing That Happened to Barnaby Brocket by Recommended by former ASD teacher, Mrs. Robertson: "Kids who want an easy read would enjoy this book, and appreciate a few laughs and smiles while reading."
A Confederacy of Dunces by Recommended by Mrs. Olsen: "This is a fairly intellectual book, probably best appreciated by advanced readers. It seems to be an indictment on modern life and the pursuit of money and meaning. Sadly, the author Toole committed suicide, but was posthumously awarded the Pulitzer Prize in 1981."