Fat Boy vs. the Cheerleaders by Geoff Herbach

Ever since his mom left, Gabe has used eating and humor as a shield, but he has finally reached his limit. Band was his one safe place in life and now it is being threatened. The cheerleaders have confiscated the funds from the school vending machine that used to provide for summer band camp. Without band as his safety net, Gabe feels ready to snap. However, that panic leads him in an interesting direction--WAR. Gabe is finally speaking out, starting protests, and he is even dieting and working out. But will his efforts be enough to save what he loves?

Fat Boy vs. the Cheerleaders is a lighthearted and humorous YA story, but also includes some profound life lessons. Gabe’s story teaches us all about the importance of self-love, friendship, family relationships, and fighting for what matters. It is a quick read with a nice, positive message.

Beware of strong language and name calling.

Recommended ages--13 and up

The Museum of Heartbreak by Meg Leder

Penelope Marx hates change. She has had the same best friends since first grade and holds onto their traditions with painful intensity. But then Audrey suggests that they should widen their social circles. And Eph has been acting increasingly strange. As Pen’s regular world changes around her, she finds herself lashing out at the people she loves. Can Penolope figure out her feelings before she lands in a permanent museum of heartbreak?

In The Museum of Heartbreak, Penelope faces issues familiar to most teens--friendship struggles, new relationships, stress, and change. She is a loveable character with an artistic flair for describing her situations and feelings. Reading about her experiences can be cathartic (and entertaining) for all. A great teen read about friendship, romance, and growing up.

Recommended ages--12 and up

Booked by Kwame Alexander

Nick Hall lives for soccer, but life is a little more complicated than that. He’s interested in April, but the school bully has already claimed her as his girl. He likes his family, but his parents are fighting and possibly splitting up. Not to mention his English teacher and the crazy school librarian who are always shoving books at him and insisting he read.

Booked is a great book that will resonate with a lot of middle school readers. Soccer, friends, girls, and a zany school librarian combine to give a realistic glimpse into the middle school experience. Not only that, Kwame Alexander’s free verse style keeps the story moving and makes it beautiful and brief. I highly recommend for middle school readers--especially the reluctant readers that need that crazy librarian shoving books into their hands.

Recommended ages--11-14 years old