March is for the girls! This month I've rounded up my favorite middle grade novels with strong female protagonists. I love that this list spans genres, cultures, social classes, and historical time periods. Each novel centers on a strong female who fights for her beliefs. These are some of the best role models in women's literature!
1. Fish in a Tree by: Linda Mullaly Hunt
Ally has a tough time in school and is known as a troublemaker. That is until she meets one teacher, Mr. Daniels, who sees through her distractions. Ally is finally diagnosed with dyslexia, finds new ways to learn, and grows in self-confidence.
>>View my read aloud companion for this title on Teachers Pay Teachers!<<
2. Insignificant Events in the Life of a Cactus by: Dusti Bowling
Aven was born without arms but that hasn't slowed her down. Aven is clever, spunky, and is capable of anything. She conquers a cross-country move, the challenge of new friendships, and uncovers a mystery she can't resist.
3. Out of My Mind
Melody is an incredibly smart 5th grader but she has a hard time expressing herself. Melody can't walk, talk, write, or communicate in any of the "normal" ways. But with the help of her parents and neighbor, Melody learns to communicate using a keyboard. She proves that she is far, far more than her disability!
>>View my read aloud companion for this title on Teachers Pay Teachers!<<
4. A Night Divided by: Jennifer A. Nielsen
Gerta's family wakes up one morning to be divided by the Berlin Wall. For the next few years, the family risks their lives to find a way to reunite. This is an engaging historical fiction book about the Cold War.
>>View my read aloud companion for this title on Teachers Pay Teachers!<<
5. The War that Saved My Life by: Kimberly Brubaker Bradley
This Newbery Honor book is set during the turbulent time of WWII. Young Ada is hidden away by her cruel mother because of a "twisted foot." Ada overcomes so much: a physical disability, parental abuse, moving and meeting new people, and war.
>>View my read aloud companion for this title on Teachers Pay Teachers!<<
6. Lyddie by: Katherine Patterson
Lyddie is a child laborer in 19th century New England. She is an indentured servant, textile mill worker, and plays a part in the labor movement. Lyddie is determined to bring her family back together and is the picture of perseverance.
7. Esperanza Rising by: Pam Munoz Ryan
Esperanza is a young Mexican girl who loses everything: her family, her friends, her home, and her country. She becomes an immigrant worker and faces hardships for which she's not prepared. But as her name suggests, she grows and learns to have hope for the future.
>>View my read aloud companion for this title on Teachers Pay Teachers!<<
8. I Am Malala by: Malala Yousafzai
This memoir is the best-selling story of Malala Yousafzai. After the Taliban placed major limitations on women's rights, young Malala decided to fight back. This true story is personal and eye-opening for students.
>>View my read aloud companion for this title on Teachers Pay Teachers!<<
9. Front Desk by: Kelly Yang
Mia Tang comes from a hard-working immigrant family. She helps her parents run the Calivista Motel, aids other immigrant families, and works toward her dream of writing. Mia has a lot to juggle and is an excellent role model.
10. The Remarkable Journey of Coyote Sunrise by: Dan Gemeinhart
Coyote and her father travel the country in their bus-turned-home. But readers soon learn their travels are more than fun--they are healing from a tremendous loss. When Coyote learns of another potential loss she will stop at nothing to return home.
11. Alone by Megan E. Freeman
This brand new novel is perfect for your survival-story loving students. Maddie is 12 years old when she wakes up alone. Everyone in her town has suddenly disappeared. Now she must learn to survive on her own with just her dog and her books.
12. Because of Winn Dixie by: Kate DiCamillo
Opal, who has faced loss and hardship, is an open and friendly young girl. After befriending a stray dog, she adventures around town making other unexpected friendships. This is a heartwarming story of community and healing.
>>View my read aloud companion for this title on Teachers Pay Teachers!<<
13. The Hunger Games by: Suzanne Collins
In the ultimate story of survival Katniss Everdeen is thrown into "The Hunger Games". She lives in Panem, a dystopian world, in which children are chosen for these "games". Katniss is forced to weigh personal survival against humanity, friendship, and love.
>>View my read aloud companion for this title on Teachers Pay Teachers!<<
14. Ella Enchanted by: Gail Carson Levine
This is not your typical Cinderella story. In this fractured fairytale, Ella is a brave character with a mind of her own. She faces dangerous creatures, evil plots, and becomes the hero instead of waiting on her prince!
>>View my read aloud companion for this title on Teachers Pay Teachers!<<
15. The Wild Robot by: Peter Brown
Roz is an unexpected character. As she wakes on a deserted island, she realizes she's a robot with no memories. But she knows she must survive. Roz is capable of independent feeling and emotion--not your typical robot!
>>View my read aloud companion for this title on Teachers Pay Teachers!<<
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