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
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