As a parent or teacher, you’re always looking for ways to encourage your middle schoolers to read more. One great way to do that is by introducing them to exciting book series. Not only do these series typically have storylines that captivate young readers, but they also help develop critical thinking and language skills. Here are the ten best book series for middle schoolers that are sure to make them fall in love with reading.
Why Book Series are Important for Middle Schoolers
Before diving into the specific book series, it’s important to understand the value of book series for middle schoolers. First and foremost, book series are great for encouraging a love for reading. Once kids are hooked on a series, they’re more likely to keep reading and seeking out similar books. Additionally, book series provide ample opportunities for character development and growth, which helps develop critical thinking skills. Finally, book series often have their own unique language, which can enhance vocabulary and language skills.
Encouraging a Love for Reading
One of the biggest challenges of getting middle schoolers to read is finding books that will keep their attention. Book series are great for this because they offer a continuing storyline that keeps readers invested in the characters and their lives. Young readers will be eager to follow their favorite characters from book to book to find out what happens next.
Moreover, reading book series can help kids develop a lifelong love for reading. Once they become invested in a series, they will want to read more and more books. This can lead to them exploring new genres, authors, and series, which will only enhance their reading skills and broaden their horizons.
Developing Critical Thinking Skills
Book series are a great way to develop critical thinking skills because they offer character development and growth over multiple books. Young readers get to see how the characters grow and change based on their experiences. This can lead to deeper discussions about why characters make certain choices and what motivates them.
Furthermore, book series often tackle complex themes and issues that require critical thinking to fully understand. For example, a series about a dystopian society may explore themes of power, control, and rebellion, which can lead to discussions about real-world politics and social issues.
Enhancing Vocabulary and Language Skills
Many book series have their own unique language or vocabulary that readers need to learn and understand to fully appreciate the story. This can help enhance language skills and vocabulary acquisition for young readers. Whether it’s spells in a fantasy series or scientific terms in a science fiction series, young readers will have fun and learn while reading these books.
Moreover, reading book series can help kids develop a love for language and storytelling. As they encounter new words and phrases, they will become more confident in their own writing and storytelling abilities. This can lead to them exploring their own creativity and expressing themselves in new and exciting ways.
In conclusion, book series are an invaluable tool for encouraging a love for reading, developing critical thinking skills, and enhancing vocabulary and language skills in middle schoolers. Whether it’s a fantasy series, a science fiction series, or a realistic fiction series, there’s a book series out there for every young reader to enjoy and learn from.
Top Fantasy Book Series for Middle Schoolers
As a middle schooler, your imagination is at its peak, and what better way to fuel your imagination than by diving into a good book series? Fantasy book series, in particular, are a great way to escape reality and get lost in a world of magic, adventure, and wonder. Here are three of the top fantasy book series for middle schoolers:
Harry Potter by J.K. Rowling
No list of book series for middle schoolers is complete without mentioning Harry Potter. The classic series by J.K. Rowling follows the adventures of young wizards and witches at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. The seven-book series captures the imaginations of readers from start to finish, with its detailed world-building and compelling storylines. Young readers will be cheering on Harry, Ron, and Hermione as they face off against evil forces in their quest to save the wizarding world.
But Harry Potter is more than just a story about magic and adventure. It’s also a story about friendship, loyalty, and bravery. As you read through the series, you’ll see how Harry, Ron, and Hermione’s friendship grows stronger with each challenge they face. You’ll also see how they learn to stand up for what’s right, even when it’s not the easy thing to do. These are important life lessons that every middle schooler can benefit from.
Percy Jackson and the Olympians by Rick Riordan
The Percy Jackson and the Olympians series by Rick Riordan is a modern-day classic that follows the adventures of the demigod Percy and his friends at Camp Half-Blood. This series combines mythology with modern-day life, making it relatable and fun for young readers. With themes of friendship, bravery, and loyalty, the five-book series is perfect for reinforcing important life lessons.
But Percy Jackson is more than just a fun adventure series. It’s also a series that celebrates diversity and inclusion. The characters in the series come from all walks of life, and they each have their own strengths and weaknesses. The series shows how everyone can work together, despite their differences, to overcome challenges and achieve their goals. These are important lessons for middle schoolers, who are learning to navigate a diverse and complex world.
The Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. Lewis
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The Chronicles of Narnia is a timeless classic that has been loved by generations of readers. The seven-book series follows four siblings as they journey to a magical land called Narnia, where they meet talking animals and magical creatures. With its themes of courage, loyalty, and the battle between good and evil, The Chronicles of Narnia is a must-read for any young reader.
But The Chronicles of Narnia is more than just a story about talking animals and magical creatures. It’s also a story about faith and spirituality. The series is steeped in Christian allegory, and it explores themes of redemption, sacrifice, and resurrection. These are important themes for middle schoolers, who are starting to think deeply about their own beliefs and values.
So whether you’re looking for a fun adventure series, a story about friendship and loyalty, or a series that explores deeper themes of diversity and spirituality, these three fantasy book series are sure to capture your imagination and keep you turning the pages.
Best Science Fiction Series for Middle Schoolers
Science fiction is a genre that captivates readers of all ages with its imaginative worlds, futuristic technologies, and thrilling adventures. For middle schoolers, science fiction can be an especially exciting genre, as it offers a chance to explore new ideas and possibilities. Here are three of the best science fiction series for middle schoolers:
A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L’Engle
A Wrinkle in Time is a mind-bending science fiction classic that follows Meg Murry and her friends as they travel through space and time to save Meg’s father from evil forces. Along the way, they encounter strange beings, explore new worlds, and confront the power of darkness. This book has themes of love, family, and the power of imagination that make it a great choice for young readers. It also encourages them to think about the nature of reality and the power of good over evil.
As a middle schooler, you may find yourself struggling with complex emotions and difficult situations. A Wrinkle in Time can help you navigate these challenges by showing you that love and imagination can conquer even the darkest of forces. It can also inspire you to think about the mysteries of the universe and the power of science to unlock its secrets.
The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins
The Hunger Games is a dystopian series that takes place in a world where children are chosen to compete in a deadly game. With themes of survival, sacrifice, and revolution, this trilogy is perfect for older middle schoolers who are looking for a more mature read. The series follows Katniss Everdeen, a young girl who volunteers to take her sister’s place in the Hunger Games, and her journey to overthrow the corrupt government that controls her world.
The Hunger Games can be a challenging read, as it deals with themes of violence, oppression, and political corruption. However, it also offers a chance to explore important issues such as social justice, personal sacrifice, and the power of collective action. As a middle schooler, you may find yourself grappling with these same issues in your own life, and The Hunger Games can help you understand them in a new and thought-provoking way.
The Maze Runner by James Dashner
The Maze Runner series is a thrilling science fiction adventure that follows a group of teens as they try to escape from a mysterious maze. With action-packed scenes and a variety of plot twists, this series is sure to keep young readers on the edge of their seats. The series also explores themes of friendship, loyalty, and the search for identity.
The Maze Runner can be a great read for middle schoolers who are looking for an exciting and fast-paced adventure. It can also help them explore important issues such as trust, teamwork, and the power of perseverance. As a middle schooler, you may find yourself facing obstacles that seem insurmountable, but The Maze Runner can show you that with determination and a strong support system, you can overcome even the most difficult challenges.
Must-Read Adventure Series for Middle Schoolers
Alex Rider by Anthony Horowitz
The Alex Rider series is a spy thriller that follows teenage spy Alex as he saves the world from various threats. With its high stakes and gadget-filled adventures, this series is perfect for young readers who love action and spy movies.
The 39 Clues by Various Authors
The 39 Clues is a series that combines adventure with history, following siblings Amy and Dan as they race around the world to uncover a family secret. With each book in the series written by a different author, young readers will get to experience a variety of writing styles and perspectives.
The Mysterious Benedict Society by Trenton Lee Stewart
The Mysterious Benedict Society is a series that follows a group of gifted children as they try to save the world from a villainous mastermind. With themes of teamwork, friendship, and creativity, this series is sure to inspire young readers to use their unique talents for good.
Conclusion
Whether your young reader loves fantasy, science fiction, or adventure, there is a book series out there that is perfect for them. From Harry Potter to Percy Jackson and the Olympians to The Hunger Games, these series are sure to encourage a love for reading and help develop important critical thinking and language skills.
FAQs
What are the benefits of reading a series versus reading a standalone novel?
Reading a series helps develop memory and attention span because children must remember the characters and plot details from previous books.
What should my child read if they enjoyed Harry Potter?
If your child has previously enjoyed fantasy series, then Rick Riordan’s Percy Jackson series, which focuses on Greek mythology, or C.S. Lewis’ The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe, which explores magical realms, may be of interest.
What genres are appropriate for middle schoolers?
There are middle-grade series written in every genre, from fantasy to crime fiction.
Eddison Monroe, born 1990 in Portland, Oregon, is an accomplished and celebrated female writer and independent author. The youngest of three siblings, Eddison's passion for storytelling began during her childhood as she entertained her family with vivid tales and fantastical characters. Her nurturing environment and the encouragement of her parents, both educators, played a crucial role in shaping her literary aspirations.
Eddison's writing often explores themes of self-discovery, relationships, and the complexities of human emotions. Her works are characterized by their lyrical prose, intricate world-building, and strong, multidimensional female characters.
A strong advocate for independent publishing, Eddison frequently conducts workshops and seminars to guide budding writers in navigating the world of self-publishing. She also serves as a mentor for aspiring authors, providing them with the knowledge and tools to pursue their dreams.
