PLAY: Curl up with a good book.

When I was teaching fourth and fifth grade, my favorite question from most of my students was, "Do you have a book recommendation for me?" These kids kept me up to date on my reading. Reading juvenile fiction, that is. Some of my students were absolutely voracious readers and would fly through several books in a week or two. They would catch me off guard if I had taken a break from my forays into middle school literature because they would almost definitely ask what I thought of the latest book by Christopher Paolini or Brian Selznick. And, they would be shocked if I did not have an answer.

Since I have been staying home with my son, I haven't made quite as much time for the latest novels. I have reread several of my favorites, though. If you're thinking that it seems a little odd for me to write about books that elementary and middle schoolers are likely to read, hold on! Most of these books are as well written as adult literature, don't contain questionable content or foul language, and are quick reads. I love the feeling of finishing a really good book, don't you? Well, here are some books that you are guaranteed to fly through:

Heartbeat by Sharon Creech

A touching, uplifting story written in poems. If you've ever felt a soul-freedom in running, you will get this book. I read it during my planning time at school one day (Don't tell my principal!).

City of Ember by Jeanne DuPrau

This science fiction novel centers around the survival of mankind. The domed city where Lina Mayfleet lives is crumbling all around her and she seems to hold the key to discovering what lies outside the confines of dimly lit Ember. This is a story of adventure and courage.

Inkheart by Cornelia Funke

A fantasy novel that begins in our normal, not-at-all fantastic world. Meggie discovers that her father has the incredible ability to read characters to life from books. She will discover why he has hidden this talent from her all her life and will be swept away into another world to rescue those she loves most. (I absolutely adore anything by Cornelia Funke--you can't go wrong.)

Peter and the Starcatchers by Dave Barry and Ridley Pearson

This prequel to Peter Pan will have you holding your breath in suspense and laughing out loud. It is a charming adventure that moves quickly and leaves you eager to pick up the next book in the series.

The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins

Perhaps you've heard of this post apocalyptic novel that has become a phenomenon. For a more mature audience than City of Ember, this novel will grip you from beginning to end as you watch Katniss fight for the survival of her family and life as she knows it.

Do you have a favorite novel from your childhood that you would love to reread?