Books and Brains
Book Recommendations
Here are some books chosen by both writers and editors, along with recommended grade ranges.
Writer Picks:
The Endling by Katherine Applegate (grades 2-5)
Foxcraft by Inbali Iserles (grades 3-6)
“Both [books] will let you understand the balance of nature and the harm humans have been causing.” – Julia, Writing Contest Winner
Crowd Favorites:
Wings of Fire by Tui T. Sutherland (4th grade+, quite violent)
– This series is about 5 dragons who are part of a prophecy.
Several book series by Rick Riordan (4th grade+, also slightly violent), including:
- the Percy Jackson series
- the Magnus Chase series
- The Heroes of Olympus
- The Kane Chronicles
– Most of Riordan’s books involve mythology, whether it’s Greek, Norse, or Egyptian.
“Fantasy is a hugely popular genre for all ages, and these series are immensely popular for a reason. Both books have rich world-building and dynamic characters.” – Heidi, Editor at the Belmont Times
For Younger Kids:
Ivy & Bean by Annie Barrows (grades K-3)
– A funny story about unlikely best friends.
Anything by Roald Dahl (grades 2-5)
– All of Dahl’s books are full of wonder and imagination.
“I remember reading many of Roald Dahl’s books and immediately being drawn into the fantastical scenes. The carefully-crafted descriptions and plots are blended with wild imagination and subtle humor; his stories truly embody the meaning of outside-of-the-box thinking!” – Anya, Editor at the Belmont Times
Bonus Picks:
The Young Elites by Marie Lu (grades 5+)
Holes by Louis Sachar (grades 3-6)
The Five Ancestors Series by Jeff Stone (grades 4-7)
– A series about 5 warriors. There is lots of action, and the books also have deep plots.
Puzzles
Link to the puzzles: https://docs.google.com/document/d/15mEHYglc4gkxnyDjTYfSeyt1-rcrxOkD0np7A1vPgSA/edit?usp=sharing
You can print the puzzles out OR make a copy of the document to store in your own Drive (you may be able to complete the puzzles online if you take this option, but we’re not exactly sure how!) If you have an online editing tool, you can definitely use that as well. We’ll let you know who the puzzle winner is as soon as someone finishes all three puzzles correctly!
UPDATE:
AUGUST PUZZLE WINNER – YUEQI
If you’ve read all of the books on the list, or if you’re just not interested in them, feel free to contact us asking for more book recommendations. We’re happy to help!
[contact-form-7 id=”1247″ title=”Book Recs”]