BOOKS

The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants by Ann Brashares

Follow the adventures of four best friends as they spend their first summer separated. The only thing keeping them united is a pair of jeans they send to one another that magically fits all four of their body types. You watch the growth of these four young girls through drama, loss and romance.  

Grab the book here!

The Secret Language of Girls by Frances O’Roark Dowell

Throughout the chapters, you will follow the rocky friendship between Kate and Marylin and learn what happens when one best friend “grows up” faster than the other.

Wonder by R.J. Palacio

Join August Pullman, a fifth grader with a facial deformity, on his first day of real school. Watch him face his struggles, and eventually feel like a normal kid. This heartwarming story may cause you and Mom to shed a tear or two, but learn what it feels like when faced with true adversity.

Because of Winn-Dixie by Katie Dicamillo

Discover what it truly feels like when a dog’s a girl’s BFF. In 10-year-old Opal’s life, you see how she deals when hardship comes her way. Read this, then chat with Mom about when you have had to conquer a hard time in your life.

The Giver by Lois Lowry

Jonas is a young boy living in the perfect world. Each new day brings him pleasure: He has no worries, tough decisions or pain. On the day of Jonas’ 12th birthday, his entire life gets turned upside down. Assigned to special training sessions with The Giver, a man who holds bad memories, Jonas needs to learn how to start living a not-so-perfect life.

Island of the Blue Dolphins by Scott O’Dell

Karana is a young Indian girl living on a small island in the middle of the Pacific. This island’s almost magical—dolphins always circle it, otters splash around and seabirds soar overhead. Grab your adventurous mom and discover how Karana uses her creativity to survive on this beautiful island.

Stargirl by Jerry Spinelli

The second Stargirl steps into her new school, her life instantly becomes brighter. Everyone smiles at her, the teachers love her and she steals the heart of Leo Borlock with just one wave…that is until everyone learns what makes Stargirl so different from everyone else. Suddenly she is shunned, teased and ignored. This stressful and emotional story will leave you leaning towards Mom a little closer. 

Flipped by Wendelin Van Draanen

Juli Baker has a major crush on Bryce Loski, but Bryce doesn’t feel the same…at all. Follow how both people share their stories of crushing or avoiding each other up until eighth grade. Then see how both characters struggle when their feelings are flipped. When you’re done, ask Mom about her first crush.