Discover “A Day at the Beach,” a heartwarming middle grade novel by acclaimed authors Gary D. Schmidt and Ron Koertge. Perfect for readers aged 8-12, this book, published by Clarion Books, follows a diverse group of kids whose lives beautifully intertwine over a single, memorable summer day. Reminiscent of “Look Both Ways” and “Seedfolks,” the story captures the fleeting magic of childhood, friendship, and finding your place. Through thoughtful, interconnected vignettes, “A Day at the Beach” offers a funny, moving, and utterly irresistible tale of tween experiences, making it an essential addition to your “The Bookish Owl” collection.

Discover ‘Just Like That’ by Gary D. Schmidt, the acclaimed author of ‘The Wednesday Wars’. This poignant and gently humorous novel follows two interwoven stories: Meryl Lee, a girl coping with grief at a boarding school in 1968, and Matt, a boy fleeing a violent past. When their paths converge, an unexpected connection sparks hope and healing. Meryl Lee finds friendship and purpose, while Matt discovers a new family and a chance for a brighter future. Experience Gary D. Schmidt’s masterful storytelling, blending profound themes with moments of tears and laughter. This captivating standalone novel enriches the beloved series featuring characters from ‘The Wednesday Wars’ and ‘Okay for Now’.

Join Wilson, the one smart sheep, on an unforgettable adventure in “One Smart Sheep” by Gary D. Schmidt and Elizabeth Stickney. When a curious sheep accidentally gets lost in the big city after climbing into a piano movers’ van, his journey home begins. Discover how Wilson uses his cleverness and the familiar sounds of his surroundings – a jackhammer, a calliope, a hotdog man, and the bark of his best friend Tippy the border collie – to find his way back to the farm. This heartwarming and humorous chapter book for emerging readers celebrates loyalty, problem-solving, friendship, and independence. Perfect for ages 8-12, this engaging story from The Bookish Owl is a modern classic in the making.

Discover “Trouble” by Gary D. Schmidt, a poignant tale from The Bookish Owl about a family’s journey through tragedy. When Henry Smith’s life is upended after his brother’s accident, the Smith family confronts their deep-seated prejudices. This compelling novel explores the inescapable nature of trouble and how it can shatter illusions, forcing a re-examination of identity and compassion. Recommended for readers aged 12 and up (grades 7-9), “Trouble” offers a powerful lesson on confronting bias and understanding the world beyond one’s own experience. A must-read for those seeking thought-provoking literature.