Why Upper Middle Grade Readers Matter

The 6th-9th grade range (ages 11–14) age group is at a pivotal stage.

They’re becoming more independent readers and beginning to explore complex themes that mirror their own evolving experiences. For those in this transitional group, Scholastic’s Lit for Learning Upper Middle Grade Reading Interest Level collection on Hoopla offers a rich and engaging next step in their literary journey.

With Scholastic titles now available on Hoopla on their release date, libraries are able to deliver this content in a much timelier way.

Summer reading programs like CSLP’s Color Your World and iRead’s Level Up at Your Library are coming to a close, but this year-round collection is designed to meet young readers where they are, offering stories that are both relatable and thought-provoking.

What Makes Upper Middle Grade Content Stand Out?

  • Character Development: Protagonists in these books often wrestle with identity, relationships, and self-discovery. These stories reflect real-life challenges like family dynamics, school pressures, and personal growth.
  • Genre Diversity: From fantasy and sci-fi to historical fiction and realistic drama, titles span a wide range of genres, giving readers the freedom to explore different worlds and perspectives.
  • Thematic Complexity: While still age-appropriate, these books tackle deeper issues, such as friendship struggles, bullying, grief, and even social justice—offering meaningful narratives with satisfying resolutions.
  • Pacing and Style: Fast-paced yet reflective, Upper Middle Grade books often feature varied narrative styles including first person, third person, and even verse.
  • Relatability: Characters face dilemmas that resonate with readers navigating their own growth, making these stories both engaging and validating.
  • Illustrations: While less common, some Upper Middle Grade titles include visuals, especially in graphic novels and humorous series.

Recommended Titles from the Collection:

Courage to Dream: Tales of Hope in the Holocaust: Neal Shusterman’s graphic novel presents five interconnected stories of Jewish resistance and hope during the Holocaust. Through haunting illustrations and lyrical prose, it honors the strength of the human spirit in the darkest of times.

The Deep Dark: A Graphic Novel: This suspenseful graphic novel tells the true story of the Quecreek Mine rescue, where nine miners were trapped underground. With gripping visuals and emotional depth, it’s a tale of courage, teamwork, and survival.

The Girl from the Sea: Molly Knox Ostertag’s beautifully illustrated graphic novel follows Morgan, a closeted teen who falls in love with a mysterious selkie. The story offers a magical—yet grounded—journey of self-discovery.

Heartstopper #1: A Graphic Novel: This charming graphic novel by Alice Oseman introduces two British teens whose friendship blossoms into romance. With gentle storytelling and inclusive representation, it’s a celebration of love, acceptance, and emotional growth.

Hey, Kiddo: A Graphic Novel: Jarrett J. Krosoczka’s powerful memoir recounts his upbringing with a drug-addicted mother and the grandparents who raised him. Through expressive illustrations and candid storytelling, it’s a moving tale of resilience, art, and family.

The Honeys: Ryan La Sala’s eerie and atmospheric novel blends horror and psychological suspense. Mars investigates his twin sister’s final days at an elite summer retreat, uncovering dark secrets and confronting gender identity, grief, and transformation.

Nick and Charlie: A tender novella by Alice Oseman that follows two beloved characters from Heartstopper in a heartfelt exploration of young love, change, and the fear of growing apart.

Solitaire: Also by Alice Oseman, this introspective novel centers on a cynical teen who confronts her mental health and questions her place in the world. The story offers a raw and honest look at depression and identity.

That’s Not What Happened: In this gripping novel by Kody Keplinger, a school shooting survivor challenges the public narrative surrounding the tragedy. The book explores trauma, memory, and the power of reclaiming one’s story.

You Should See Me in a Crown: Leah Johnson’s joyful and empowering debut follows a Black queer teen who enters her school’s prom queen competition to win a scholarship. Along the way, she discovers love, confidence, and the strength to embrace who she truly is.

Keep Readers Engaged with Scholastic’s Upper Middle Grade Collection

Whether readers are looking for adventure, emotional depth, or a mirror to their own lives, Scholastic’s Upper Middle Grade collection is a perfect way to keep the momentum going beyond summer. Stay tuned to see what other great titles Scholastic has for the Upper Grade Reading Level to keep kids Lit for Learning—and be sure to let your patrons know what’s available in the Lower Grade and Middle Grade reading levels!