Summer Reading: Books for Middle Grades
For the middle grades, summer reading is all about independent reading — and independent reading is all about self-motivation. For this group, we’ve selected a range of novels with something for everyone: old favorites, new twists, the historical, the hysterical, the moving, and more.
Magic Tree House series (2–6)*
by Mary Pope Osborne
In this popular early chapter book series, a magical, book-filled
house transports two children back in time.
Dear Mr. Henshaw (2–6)
by Beverly Cleary
Leigh’s life is a mess. Will writing to his favorite author
help? Find out in this Newbery-winning favorite.
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory (2–6)
by Roald Dahl
In this timeless classic, crazy chocolatier Willy Wonka opens his
chocolate factory doors for the first time to five lucky children.
Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing (3–6)
by Judy Blume
In this beloved book, Peter finds his demanding 2-year-old brother
an ever increasing problem.
Misty of Chincoteague (3–6)
by Marguerite Henry
Beloved by generations of children, this classic horse story about
following dreams and learning to let go was named a Newbery Honor
Book.
Because of Winn-Dixie (4–6)
by Kate DiCamillo
When 10-year-old India Opal Buloni befriends a lively stray dog
in this Newbery Honor book, the canine helps her meet some unusual
characters who teach her about love, life, and forgiveness.
The Stinky Cheese Man and Other Fairly Stupid Tales (4–6)
by Jon Scieszka
Imagine a comic retelling of some of our best-loved fairy tales.
In this Caldecott Honor book, readers encounter "Cinderumpelstiltskin,"
"Little Red Running Shorts," and "The Princess and
the Bowling Ball," to name a few.
Bridge to Terabithia (4–6)
by Katherine Paterson
In this Newbery winner, Jess and Leslie create their own kingdom
in the woods until tragedy strikes and one of them must face life
alone.
Bud, Not Buddy (4–6)
by Christopher Paul Curtis
In this Newbery Medal and Coretta Scott King Award winner, 10-year-old
Bud is boy on the run — and on a mission. His momma never told
him who his father was, but she left a clue, and nothing is going
to stop Bud.
A Series of Unfortunate Events (4–7)
by Lemony Snicket
This inventive series brings a whole new perspective to bad luck.
Follow the adventures of the Baudelaire orphans as they fight for
their survival — and unravel a mystery.
*These titles are available online in The Scholastic Store: www.scholasticstore.com
- Scholastic Store
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Butterfly Meadow # 3: Three Cheers for Mallow
The Scholastic Store 
Butterfly Meadow # 3: Three Cheers for Mallow
by Olivia MonarchIn Butterfly Meadow, colorful butterflies dance through the air, glowworms inch through the grass, and bumblebees buzz around every flower. It's a place where friendships and adventures take flight!
$4.99
Mallow is organizing a sports day in the field. All of the different insects and animals are going to participate! Dazzle is happy to cheer on her friends. But when one of the butterflies can't compete, can Dazzle take her place?
books;paperback books;paperbacks | Ages 4-8
Ages 4-8 $4.99
- Scholastic Store
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Is That a Dead Dog In Your Locker?
The Scholastic Store 
Is That a Dead Dog In Your Locker?
by Todd StrasserThe Tardy Boys, Wade and Leyton, are always getting into trouble, especially when they're dealing with the school bully, Barton Slugg. When their friend Daisy brings her neighbor's old dog Wheezy to school, the boys have to help her hide him. Not only does the school have a no-furry-animals-allowed policy, but the class crybaby, Fibby Mandible, is horribly allergic to animal fur. Barton is trying everything to uncover Wheezy's hiding place and get the boys in hot water. It will take the ingenious work of the Tardy Boys to outsmart him, with some hilarious results.
$4.99
books;paperback books;paperbacks | Ages 9-12
Ages 9-12 $4.99
UNIT PLAN
