We Regret to Inform You by Ariel Kaplan

Mischa Abramavicius should easily enter the university of her choice. She has ideal test scores, excellent grades, and all the right extracurricular activities. Her time at Blanchard has been well spent preparing her future. But then the rejection letters start coming in--her first choice schools, second choice, and even her safety school. Mischa is baffled, distressed, but also suspicious.

Soon Mischia and some new found friends start poking around to discover the real reason for her rejection. What they find is more surprising and scandalous than anyone expected. Part high school drama, part comedy, Mischa’s story is both humorous and frightening. Not a good read for those already under pressure for college admittance, but a good farce about the pressures of pre-college life.

Recommended ages--13 and up

Beyond the Bright Sea by Lauren Wolk

Crow has lived her entire life on a small island in the Elizabeth Islands of Massachusetts. Twelve years ago, Osh found her drifting in a tiny boat crying with hunger. Osh, along with their strong and loving neighbor Miss Maggie, raised Crow and taught her the ways of the island. But when Crow turns twelve, she feels a new curiosity about where she came from. Who were her parents and why did they send her drifting in a boat?

Crow’s questions lead her to Penikese, an island previously populated by a leper hospital. As Crow searches for her birthplace and family, she finds more than one mystery hiding on the island. Her journey includes excitement, danger, and lots of self-discovery. With lovable characters, an intriguing setting, and bits of history, Beyond the Bright Sea has something for all types of middle grade readers. A beautifully told story perfect for entertainment and discussion.

Recommended ages--9 and up

Marcus Vega Doesn’t Speak Spanish by Pablo Cartaya

As the biggest and toughest looking boy in the eighth grade, Marcus Vega is a protector, but also a threat. When he gets in a fight protecting his down syndrome younger brother, Marcus’s mother decides the family needs a change of scenery. They head to Puerto Rico to visit family Marcus has never met. But all Marcus can think about is finding his missing father. If his father would help, their family could be alright.

As Marcus travels around the island, he meets a variety of people. Each one teaches him a little bit more about the meaning of family. Marcus’s story is about finding family, but also finding himself. His journey gives the reader a taste of Puerto Rican culture while tackling life’s questions. A good read for middle grade and middle school readers.

Recommended ages--10-14 years