I've been sharing a series of lists of favourite books that I put together with my friend, author and editor Yamini Vijayan. Here's number V.

The Middle School years are an exciting time, but they’re also fraught with all sorts of new feelings. So we picked books that explore friendship, family, quests, and more. This one’s for 9-12 year olds, navigating this weird and wonderful world. 

Maithili and the Minotaur- CG Salamander & Rajiv Eipe 

Maithili attends school in the magical wilderness, and lives at the edge of the human town. She's an outcast in both places though she tries hard to fit in. A dark and beautiful graphic novel about friendship and our need to belong.

The List of Things That Will Not Change - Rebecca Stead 

When Bea’s father announces that he’s marrying his boyfriend, she’s excited about the wedding and meeting her soon to be step-sister. But in the run up to the wedding, Bea realises that you don’t always get the neat, bow-tied, happily-ever-after you want. 

All of Me - Venita Coelho

A young boy with multiple personalities, a sinister army and the Kohinoor diamond! With the bible-quoting Mr Pickwick, the nervous governess Miss Trent and smart Alec Skinner all residing within his head, Castor is trying to figure out why he was locked away for five years.

The Wild Robot - Peter Brown

Robot Roz opens her eyes for the first time and finds herself on an island. As she adapts to her new surroundings, she must also win over the animals who live there. A touching portrayal of how human life is altering the way many other creatures live and die.  

Amulet - Kazu Kibuishi (graphic novel series) 

When Emily’s father passes away, her family moves into her great-great-grandfather’s creepy old house. The discovery of a magical amulet in her new home results in her mother being kidnapped. Will Emily and her brother be able to rescue her?

The Best at It - Maulik Pancholy

Starting middle school is making Rahul Kapoor anxious, so his grandfather advises him to find something he’s good at and become the best at it. While he sets out to discover this, he also has to make sense of his feelings for classmate Justin. 

Beetle Boy - MG Leonard

When Darkus Cuttle’s dad goes missing he is determined to find him. With the help of his friends—some super intelligent beetles—Darkus has to battle with one of the best villains ever written.