Good reads for sixth-grade boys
Questions come up at the library on a daily basis. One question that recently came up was: what books would a sixth grade boy like, besides the "Harry Potter" books? Well, having been a sixth grade boy a while ago, here are some books that I enjoyed back then.
For the more reluctant readers try the "Animorphs" series by K.A. Applegate, about a group of kids who have the power to change into animals. Also try the "P.C. Hawke Mysteries" by Paul Zindel. These books follow P.C. Hawke a boy detective who solves many interesting cases, with his best friend Mackenzie.
"The Edge Chronicles," by Paul Stewart & Chris Riddell would appeal to boys who like the Harry Potter books. These books follow the story of Twig, a boy searching for his father in the dangerous Deepwoods where he encounters goblins and trogs and flesh-eating trees. For more avid readers try the "Deptford Mice Trilogy" by Robin Jarvis. The three books in this series are "The Dark Portal," "The Crystal Prison," and "The Final Reckoning." These books are about a group of mice who battle the vicious rats in the sewers and their mysterious god Jupiter.
Another series that is popular with boys is the "Artemis Fowl" series, by Eoin Colfer. Artemis Fowl is a genius, criminal mastermind, and a millionaire who is only twelve years old. His stories are like Sherlock Holmes and James Bond mixed with an element of fantasy.
Finally, try the "Keys to the Kingdom" series by Garth Nix. Nix's stories are about a boy named Arthur Penhaligon, whose life is saved by a mysterious key shaped like the minute hand of a clock. The key, however, also brings a plague of bizarre creatures and a mysterious being called Mister Monday to Arthur's world. Arthur must battle the creatures to save his world before it is too late.
If you are a sixth grade boy or the parent of a sixth grade boy, this list of books will help you find something good to read for the remainder of the summer vacation.