Ellen Labrecque
Who Is Shaquille O'Neal?
Middle gradeages 7–12grades 2–7650L2022
A fun, accessible entry point for young sports fans who want to know the story behind the biggest name in basketball.
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Middle grade · ages 8–12 · 720L · 2025
Korman's reliable formula — fast-paced, funny, and genuinely clever mystery plotting that makes reluctant readers want to keep up with the clues.
Operation Cupcake
by Bambi Edlund
Middle grade · ages 8–12 · 750L · 2023
A lighthearted, low-stakes adventure that works well for reluctant readers who prefer humor over heavy emotional arcs.
How to Write Really Badly
by Anne Fine
Middle grade · ages 8–12 · 720L
A genuinely clever premise (kid tries to write badly, accidentally learns to write well) that keeps the humor sharp without slowing down; rewarding for kids who feel self-conscious about writing.