Marcia Amidon Lusted
Untold Story of Michael Collins
A solid, fact-based biography that captures the thrill of early space exploration without getting bogged down in dry dates.
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The Trumpeter of Krakow
by Eric P. Kelly
Middle grade · ages 8–12 · 800L · 1992
A Newbery winner that feels genuinely historical without being a slog — the mystery of the trumpet and the boy's quiet bravery make it memorable for kids who can handle older prose.
Dominic
by William Steig
Middle grade · ages 8–12 · 820L · 1972
A 1972 fable-adventure that feels utterly timeless: Steig's strange, intelligent wit, gorgeous pen-and-ink drawings, and a dog hero who simply decides to live differently. Rewarding for readers ready for real narrative weight.
The Poisoned King
by Katherine Rundell
Middle grade · ages 9–12 · 780L
Rundell's signature lyrical prose elevates a twisty medieval mystery where a foundling boy becomes the kingdom's most dangerous secret — demanding, smart, and genuinely surprising.