As a team made up of a number of former teachers, we know that some children love fictional books about animals. Here are some of our favourite middle grade books, featuring animals.
1) I am Rebel by Ross Montgomery
Reading Age: 9-11
This book is told from the point of view of Rebel, the dog. His owner Tom decides that he is going to join the rebellion to defeat the King's men. Rebel, as a loyal and good dog, wants to protect him, so sets out on a quest to bring Tom home. Along the way, he makes some friends, including a pig and another dog.
Beautifully told, Ross Montgomery captures the emotions and feelings of Rebel the dog brilliantly. We would highly recommend this to book to anyone.
2) The Last Bear by Hannah Gold
Reading Age: 8+
April travels with her father to Bear Island on a research post. There are no bears left though on Bear Island, that is until April catches a glimpse of an animal that looks very like a polar bear. This polar bear, like April is far from home. They strike up a friendship and April is determined to save her friend Bear, the polar bear.
We really enjoyed the bond that forms between Bear and April and how the relationship between April and her father changes as you read through the pages. It's worth keeping in mind that there are themes of loss in this book.
3) Varjak Paw by SF Said
Reading Age: 8/9 +
Varjak Paw is a kitten but not just any kitten, a Mesopotamian Blue kitten. He lives in a house on a hill and has never ventured outside. That is, until his grandfather tells him about the Way, which is a secret martial art for cats.
So now, he must venture outside, to a world of other cats and dogs. But all is not well in the outside world, where cats have been vanishing mysteriously.
We really enjoyed the different personalities of the cats that SF Said has created. Also as the book progresses Varjak Paw learns a lot about himself, his family and the outside world. It's really great to see the internal journey he goes on.
4) The Shark Caller by Zillah Bethell
Reading Age: 9-11 (we recommend pre-reading this, please see comments below)
Blue Wing wants to become a shark caller but when Maple arrives on the island she is asked to show her around. The girls are initially reluctant to become friends and share their secrets. However, in time they join together to the depths of the ocean to face Xox, the deadliest shark of them all.
A story about friendship, loss and bravery. If you are reading this with children, we recommend pre-reading it, as does mention multiple characters that have passed away.
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