Middle grade books about everyday lives with a twist celebrate the joy of discovering that even the most ordinary days can hide secrets, surprises, and a spark of the impossible waiting to turn life upside down.

The Friendship Experiment – Erin Teagan

A budding scientist tries to apply lab logic to middle-school friendships, but discovers that emotions don’t follow formulas.

The Extraordinary Colours of Auden Dare – Zillah Bethell

In a world where water is scarce, a colour-blind boy’s discovery of a mechanical robot changes how he sees friendship, bravery, and the world itself.

What Happens Next – Claire Swinarski

When her sister’s eating disorder turns her world upside-down, Abby finds escape – and surprising courage – through an astronomy project that might change her life.

The Dollmaker of Krakow – R.M. Romero

In Nazi-occupied Poland, a magical doll comes to life and befriends a lonely toymaker – a delicate blend of real history and quiet enchantment.

The Mummy in the Attic – Mitch Mitchell

Tom McNabb thinks he’s just an ordinary kid until a small Egyptian mummy in his attic brings chaos, invisibility, and a wild mystery that turns his everyday life inside-out.

The Tiny Hero of Ferny Creek Library – Linda Bailey

A brave little bug sneaks into a school library to save his aunt and discovers that courage and stories come in all sizes.

The Magic Misfits – Neil Patrick Harris

A runaway boy stumbles into a group of misfit magicians who use illusion, friendship, and quick wits to solve real-world mysteries.