Jenny Russell
What Was That? Scary Campfire Stories to Tell in the Dark
A perfect bridge for kids who want spooky vibes but aren't ready for sustained dread; the humor keeps the fear light and manageable.
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Romeo and/or Juliet: A Choosable-Path Adventure
by Ryan North
Middle grade · ages 8–12 · 720L · 2016
A brilliant deconstruction of R&J that uses the choosable-path format to teach that stories aren't inevitable—you rebuild the play as comedy, tragedy, absurdist adventure, or romance, depending on your choices.
Elf Dog and Owl Head
by M.T. Anderson
Middle grade · ages 8–12 · 720L · 2023
Anderson's trademark wordplay and absurdist humor makes this a delightful middle-grade romp that doesn't talk down to readers—kids and parents both find something to laugh at.
Player Attack (Minecraft Wolf Diaries #1)
by Winston Wolf
Middle grade · ages 7–12 · 650L · 2023
A fun, low-stakes entry for Minecraft fans who want a story that feels like playing the game, though it lacks deeper narrative complexity.