In partnership with

Sunshine State Young Readers Award (SSYRA)
Books 2023-24 Grades 6-8

96 Miles by J. L. Esplin

Born Behind Bars by Padma Venkatraman

A Duet for Home by Karina Yan Glaser

​Escape by K. R. Alexander

​Hush-A-Bye by Jodi Lee Mott

​Invisible by Christina Diaz Gonzalez

​Linked by Gordan Korman

​Long Lost by Jacqueline West

​The Monster Missions by Laura Martin

Scout is Not a Band Kid by Jade Armstrong

Skander and the Unicorn Thief by A. F. Steadman

Treasure Tracks by S. A. Rodriguez

​Valentina Salazar is Not a Monster Hunter by Zorida Cordova

Wayward Creatures by Danya Lorentz

Winnie Zeng Unleashes a Legend by Katie Zhao


Click here to read descriptions

SUMMER READING

Make the most of quiet time this summer (and stay off screens) Ms. Suits has compiled a list of books that your student may enjoy and will reward new and returning students who have read any of these recommended titles before school begins in August.

This is a great opportunity for your incoming 6th Grader to get acquainted with DMS Media Center Specialist Ms. Suits, and to learn more about the programming she will be offering throughout the year.  Books on the SSYRA list will also be featured in the Battle of the Books and SLAM Showcase that takes place in the Spring. If you want to participate in this fun contest and field trip with Ms. Suits, get a head start now!

In addition, students who read at least one book from any list and write a one page summary will get a special treat from Ms. Suits in August.

All of these books are recommended on age appropriate levels. As a friendly reminder, take note of book summaries so you can be knowledgable about subject matter to discuss.  Simply reading books at or above level can substantially improve your student's academic performance. That's why finding a good book that your student will enjoy is so important! You can follow the Davidsen Media Center on Instagram @DavidsenMedia for news and updates about whats happening in the Media Center.​​


Additional Recommendations

6th Grade 

Strange Birds by Celia Perez

My Life as a Coder by Janet and Jake Tashjian

Miles Morales by Jason Reynolds

Ranger In Time: Rescue on the Oregon Trail 
​by Kate Messner


7th Grade

The Usual Suspects by Maurice Broaddus

Onward: Quests of Yore by Rob Renzetti

The Best at It by Maulik Pancholy

Starfish by Lisa Fipps


8th Grade

The Outsiders by S. E. Hinton

Ballad and Dagger by Daniel Jose Older

Into the Couds  by Tod Olson

Hello, Cruel Heart by Maureen Johnson

DAVIDSEN SUMMER READING