Spring Reading 2025: Books picks for intermediate students!
Spring break is upon us, and with the kids out of school for two weeks, what better time to curl up with a good book?
Our Spring Reading series continues with four recommendations for Grade 4 to 7 students from Bear Creek Elementary teacher-librarian Megan Gatzke, plus a couple of student recommendations! Here’s what’s on their reading list for pre-teens over spring break:
Any Way You Look by Maleeha Siddiqui
Our Grade 6 reader H.S. recommends Siddiqui’s work, sharing, “This book could change your life!” In Any Way You Look, Ainy Zain gets her wish of working for the summer in her mother’s clothing store, Naseerah’s Almari, while navigating crushes, family hardships and her journey in observing hijab. Ainy must dig deep to stay true to herself and speak up when it counts. This book will inspire readers looking for realistic stories that honour cultural identity.
Scarewaves by Trevor Henderson
Our Grade 6 reader J.H. shares, “If you’re interested in the paranormal, or just the horror genre in general, I do recommend this book with its absolutely spine-tingling illustrations.” Scarewaves follows Mary, Lucas, Byron, Rebecca and Jennifer as they encounter a cast of frightening creatures in their small town. With the help of a mysterious radio DJ, they set out to uncover the truth. Lovers of spooky mysteries will enjoy this book.
Blue Stars: The Vice-Principal Problem by Kekla Magoon, Cynthia Leitich Smith & Molly Murakami
This graphic novel features Riley and Maya, cousins who suddenly move in with their grandmother and must share a room. The girls are opposites in many ways but end up making a great team, which couldn’t be more important as they take on a mission to save their new school. Blue Stars will call to readers who enjoy cartoony artwork and exciting friendship stories.
Murray Out of Water by Taylor Tracey
This book uses moving poetry to share a story of finding the power to be yourself. Murray is connected to the ocean – she can even magically move the water with her mind – but she is suddenly relocated far away in a hurricane evacuation. She breaks through her family’s stringent expectations as she thrives in new relationships with diverse friends and family. Readers looking for a strong lead character and lovers of novels in verse will enjoy this book.
There are lots of great books to choose from for intermediate readers this spring!
See also some excellent primary reads recommended by Katzie Elementary teacher-librarian Chantal Van Santen, and stay tuned for book suggestions for secondary students in the next instalment of our Spring Reading series!
