Middle Grade Books

The middle grade category refers to any book written for middle school-aged children. While children's books are geared toward newborns to six-year-olds and juvenile fiction for seven- through nine-year-old readers, middle grade books are written for ten- through thirteen-year-olds. These books often feature themes, plots, and writing styles that are more complex than those found in juvenile fiction books, but not as mature as those in young adult books, which are aimed for teenage readers.

Read on to discover the characteristics of a middle grade book, our favorite middle grade reads, and the most popular middle grade books and authors on Pango. However, if you're an adult shopping for books for your children, we don't recommend relying solely on general categories to determine whether a book is appropriate for your specific child. Every reader is different, and we recommend that you do your own research before purchasing.

If you are an adult looking for books for young readers, we do not recommend relying on the general category to determine whether a title is appropriate for your specific child. Every reader is different, and we recommend that you do your own research on all books before purchasing.

What is considered a middle grade book?

Most middle grade books have 30,000 to 50,000 words. This longer length builds reading stamina, and it allows for more in-depth storytelling and character development. Other characteristics common to middle grade books include:

1. Protagonist's age. The main characters are generally around the same age as the target audience, which helps readers relate to the characters and their experiences.
2. Themes. Middle grade novels explore themes important to their readers, including themes of growing up, self-discovery, and belonging. 
3. Moral and ethical lessons. There’s often a lesson, which encourages readers to think critically about right and wrong, and to develop their own values and beliefs.

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• How to Get Stellar Book Recommendations for Kids 
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