Stuck in that netherworld between “kid” and “teen books”? Here’s a sampling of some books you may not have heard of that just may grab your attention, tickle your funny bone, or hit you in an unexpected way.
Cosmic by Frank Cottrell Boyce: Funny, engaging book that has a bit of a modern Roald Dahl feel
Gregor the Overlander (Underland Chronicles) by Suzanne Collins (author of the teen Divergent series): Don’t be put off by the emphasis on rats and giant cockroaches in the book blurb–this series had some highly devoted fans, and is considered a vivid, fast-paced, and original story.
The Roar and The Whisper by Emma Clayton: Fast-paced but well-developed sci-fi/dystopian fiction that will appeal to readers who may want a less-violent but exciting series in the dystopian, futuristic vein of Hunger Games, Maze Runner and Ender’s Game.
Ella Enchanted by Gail Carson Levine: Newbury Honor book; often funny retelling of Cinderella with a new spin. Note that the movie and book follow different paths, leaving fans divided on which is better!