Middle grade is a term that refers to books written for readers between the ages of eight and twelve. In this column, Erica will recommend great books for children in this age group!

Just Lizzie by Karen Wilfrid
All available formats here

In the wake of a terrifying encounter that prompted the family move, everything in Lizzie’s life is beginning to change – except her (or at least that’s how it feels). Unlike her best friend Sarah Nan – unlike pretty much everyone in her middle school – Lizzie doesn’t care about dating, and she feels isolated and confused. But when a science lesson and a Googled question open up her worldview, Lizzie has to find the words to get everyone else to understand what she’s just discovered.

Lizzie’s journey of self-discovery is compassionately (and relatably) described throughout the book: from the frustration and confusion, to the eye-opening comprehension and delight, to the frustration when people she trusts don’t get it – not the way she wants (or needs) them to. But in the end, Lizzie figures it out – the way everyone deserves to, the way some people don’t (or can’t) until they’re a bit older than Lizzie.

Check out the book PW Reviews praised as “captur[ing] the indomitable spirit of one middle schooler struggling to better understand herself and the world around her” in “Lizzie’s keen first-person voice[,] her interpersonal dilemmas [, and] her richly complex relationships”; SLJ Reviews called “a thoughtful coming-of-age exploration of a tween’s experience with big life changes and asexuality; recommended for all collections” and a “poignant depiction of a journey of self-discovery”; and Kirkus Reviews described as “a welcome addition to the growing number of novels exploring and embracing sexuality” that shows “hope com[ing] from her successfully navigating friendships and family relationships, taking a deep dive into research, and finding true mentors in unexpected places.”