While school might be the last thing on middle grade readers’ minds right now, those first-day nerves are likely to rear their heads in the next few months.

In addition to scholastics, navigating the social circles of school can present a lot of pressure to kids, especially in the digital age. The good news is, there are some awesome recent middle grade novels centered around the tricky themes of fitting in, being yourself, and dealing with the social media landscape as a kid.

The New Norm by Matthew J. Gilbert

Pranks and Prejudice by Matthew J. Gilbert

Roxie in Color by Diane Debrovner and Stacy Cervenka

Finally Heard by Kelly Yang

Thank you to SimonKIDS and Candlewick Press for copies of these books!