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Read around the World Children's/Middle Grade

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Each section features a location around the world with books set in or written by authors from there. The list is meant to help others explore the world through the art of books and reading. *note: author means the author is from there, setting means...
Sections
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Alabama

Alabama, known for its warm hospitality and picturesque landscapes, serves as a compelling backdrop for a myriad of stories that capture the essence of both its urban hubs and rural charm. From the bustling streets of Birmingham to the serene setting...

 
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Author and Setting                                                                               Through personal anecdotes and meticulous research, Hegedus explores Lee's childhood in Alabama, her friendship with Truman Capote, and the writing process of the iconic novel. The book examines the social context of the time, highlighting themes of...
Alabama Spitfire: Harper Lee & Mockingbird
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Author & Setting                             A heartwarming tale unfolds in a time of segregation, where a young boy named Frank is captivated by elephants.
Meet Miss Fancy
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Setting                                         This powerful and humorous tale, a companion to the acclaimed books One Crazy Summer and P.S. Be Eleven, will captivate both existing fans and new readers meeting these unforgettable sisters for the first time.
Gone Crazy in Alabama: Williams-Garcia, Rita
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Setting - Mythology, fantasy, and contemporary fiction combine in this adventurous middle grade.
Tristan Strong Punches a Hole in the Sky
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Setting                                           In unexpected places, 2 kids discover the power of friendship, transcending their initial expectations
Wonderland
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Author & Setting                       This poignant tale explores themes of self-discovery, family, and friendship, reminiscent of classics like A Tree Grows in Brooklyn and Moon Over Manifest.
The Hidden Summer
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Arizona

Arizona, known for its stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant history, serves as the perfect setting for numerous captivating stories waiting to be discovered.

 
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Setting                                            The book also introduces the diverse wildlife of the desert, highlighting the interconnectedness of all living beings in this arid landscape. A valuable educational tool that sparks curiosity and appreciation for nature, "Cactus Cafe" is a must-have ...
Cactus Cafe: A Story of the Sonoran Desert
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Setting                                    Immerse yourself in the captivating children's book 'Way Out in the Desert' by T.J. Marsh, where readers are taken on an adventurous journey through the vast desert landscape. The author's vivid descriptions breathe life into the desert, portraying i...
Way Out in the Desert
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Setting                                         Art & Max by David Wiesner is a captivating picture book about two lizard friends, Art and Max, on an artistic adventure filled with colors and imagination. Wiesner's stunning illustrations bring the characters to life, inviting readers to explo...
Art & Max
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Setting                                        Big Moon Tortilla by Joy Cowley is a captivating children's book that immerses readers in a whimsical narrative about a magical tortilla that grows under the moonlight.
Big Moon Tortilla: Cowley, Joy, Strongbow, Dyanne
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Setting                                   "Roxaboxen" by Alice McLerran and illustrated by Barbara Cooney is a beloved children's book that tells the enchanting story of a magical imaginary town created by children in the desert.
Roxaboxen: McLerran, Alice, Cooney, Barbara
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Author & Setting                     Across the Desert by Dusti Bowling is a captivating novel that takes readers on a thrilling journey through the harsh desert terrain. Dusti Bowling masterfully weaves a tale of survival, courage, and resilience as characters navigate the vast expans...
Across the Desert
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Setting                                         Paola Santiago and the River of Tears by Tehlor Kay Mejia is a captivating middle grade novel that follows the adventures of Paola, a brave girl on a mysterious journey to uncover the truth behind the legendary River of Tears.
Paola Santiago and the River of Tears
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Setting                                          "Like Magic" by Elaine Vickers, illustrated by Sara Not, is a captivating children's book about friendship and self-discovery.
Like Magic - Vickers, Elaine, Not, Sara: Books
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Setting                                         Beth Alvarado's 'Jillian in the Borderlands' explores identity, culture, and belonging through Jillian's journey of self-discovery amidst her mixed heritage.
Jillian in the Borderlands
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Setting                                         "Worst-Case Collin" by Rebecca Caprara is a captivating novel that explores human emotions and relationships through the protagonist, Collin, facing challenges that test his resilience.
Worst-Case Collin
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Setting                                         "The 11:11 Wish" by Kim Tomsic is a captivating novel about Megan, a young girl who discovers a book granting her a daily wish at 11:11.
The 11:11 Wish
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Setting                                         "Rory's Promise" by Michaela MacColl and Rosemary Nichols is a captivating tale that introduces the enthralling Hidden Histories series. This mysterious and intriguing story sets the stage for a journey filled with unexpected twists and turns, explo...
Rory's Promise (Hidden Histories) - Books
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Author & Setting                           "A Diamond in the Desert" by Kathryn Fitzmaurice tells the story of Tetsu, a young Japanese-American boy in a WWII internment camp in Arizona.
A Diamond in the Desert
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Alaska

Known for its vast wilderness, towering mountains, and icy fjords, Alaska serves as a mesmerizing setting for numerous captivating novels. So, grab your favorite warm drink, cozy up, and let's embark on a literary expedition through the Last Frontier...

 
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Author & Setting                         "Storm Run" is a testament to human spirit and the enduring bond between humans and animals in the face of adversity, inspiring readers to pursue their dreams with passion and perseverance.
Storm Run: First Woman to Win the Iditarod
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Setting                                     Joosse's tender narrative and Lavallee's captivating illustrations bring to life a tale of universal love and Inuit culture. Readers embark on a journey of empathy, witnessing the deep bond between mother and daughter. This timeless book emphasizes ...
Mama, Do You Love Me?
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Setting                                       Through this Alaskan folktale, readers are immersed in a world where the extraordinary can happen, showcasing the magic and wonder of nature's bounty.
The Giant Cabbage: An Alaska Folktale
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Author & Setting                       The narrative delves into the challenges faced by animals and humans alike in the unforgiving Arctic environment, highlighting their remarkable adaptations and strategies for enduring the freezing temperatures.
Survival at 40 Below by Debbie S. Miller
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Author & Setting                         The book immerses readers in the rugged terrain and diverse wildlife that call Denali home, offering a rich tapestry of the natural world. With its blend of adventure and education, Up on Denali is a celebration of nature's wonders and a tribute to ...
Up on Denali: Alaska's Wild Mountain (PAWS IV)
 
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Author & Setting                     Charlie and the Blanket Toss by Tricia Brown and illustrated by Sarah Martinsen tells the story of Charlie and his thrilling adventure with a traditional Alaska Native blanket toss.
Charlie and the Blanket Toss - Books
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Setting                                       "The Dog’s Meow" delivers a heartwarming message about the power of friendship and the beauty of embracing diversity
The Dog's Meow
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Setting                                        The comic beautifully captures Kodi's growth, resilience, and the power of connection in the face of adversity.
Kodi
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Setting                                         When his uncle Midnight vanishes in the Valley of Lost Planes, Jay embarks on a quest to find him, encountering obstacles like the enigmatic prospector, Goldbug. Will Jay succeed in locating his missing uncle amidst the mysteries of the valley?
Flying Ghosts
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Setting                                              With each twist and turn, Secret Moose delves into themes of curiosity, friendship, and the magic of the unknown, leaving readers spellbound until the final revelation.
The secret moose
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Setting                                             The story unfolds as a poignant tale of grief, resilience, and the power of unity in the face of adversity.
Whispering Alaska
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Arkansas

Arkansas serves as a captivating backdrop for stories across genres, offering readers a glimpse into the unique culture, history, and natural beauty of the state. Whether you're exploring the enchanting forests of the Ozarks or navigating the bustlin...

 
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Setting                                        The children's book "Cookie Boy: Travelin’ Arkansas" by Cheryl Davis, with illustrations by Linda Skelton, invites young readers on a captivating journey across the diverse landscapes of Arkansas.
Cookie Boy: Travelin' Arkansas - Cheryl Davis
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Setting                                         The book vividly portrays Angelou's early struggles and eventual rise as a celebrated poet, highlighting her resilience, courage, and unwavering determination. Through captivating illustrations and a compelling narrative, readers witness Angelou's t...
Rise!: From Caged Bird to Poet, Maya Angelou
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Setting                                        With a blend of heartwarming moments and enchanting adventures, "Stories from the Blue Road" offers a delightful escape into a world where anything is possible.
Stories from the Blue Road - Books
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Setting                                          In "Only the Names Remain: The Cherokees and the Trail of Tears" by Alex W. Bealer, beautifully illustrated by Kristina Rodanas, the poignant tale of the Cherokees and their harrowing journey along the Trail of Tears unfolds.
Only the Names Remain: The Cherokees
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Setting                                          In "The Lions of Little Rock" by Kristin Levine, the story unfolds in a racially divided Arkansas during the 1950s. Two young girls, Marlee and Liz, form a secret friendship that transcends the segregation laws of the time. When Liz suddenly disappea...
The Lions of Little Rock: Levine, Kristin
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Author & Setting                           It follows the journey of a young warrior, navigating the challenges of racial integration as one of the Little Rock Nine. Through vivid storytelling and captivating illustrations, the book captures the essence of determination and the fight for equ...
March Forward, Girl: Young Warrior to Little Rock
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California

As you immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of California books, you'll discover a state that is as diverse and dynamic as the characters and stories that inhabit its pages. From the glittering lights of Hollywood to the rugged beauty of Yosemite, C...

 
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Setting                                      Orphan Maddy Adriana has always held a strong belief in magic, often feeling that things were too flawless to be genuine or ordinary. One day, she is inexplicably drawn to a clandestine street circus on Venice Beach, where she begins to experience a ...
The Circus at the End of the Sea
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Setting                                   Throughout her life, Alice has constantly relocated, preventing her from forming lasting memories or connections in any one place, and resulting in her amassing a substantial collection of library cards. However, when her mother makes the decision t...
Finding Chance: Linda Benson, Nancy Lane - Books
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Setting                                         This heartwarming tale, based on a real-life story, is presented in a poetic and illustrated format, ideal for young animal enthusiasts seeking an engaging nonfiction read.
Pierre the Penguin: A True Story
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Setting                                            This narrative highlights the collaborative efforts of government officials and marine biologists who closely monitored and assisted Humphrey in his health, passage through the California waters, and return to the ocean.
Humphrey, the Lost Whale: A True Story
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Author & Setting                          To support her parents, protect the undocumented immigrants they shelter, and safeguard her job, aspirations of becoming a writer, and accommodation at the motel from being jeopardized by the owner Mr. Yao, Mia must demonstrate courage, kindness, and...
Front Desk (Front Desk #1) by Kelly Yang
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Setting                                        Yumi Chung, a talented comedian from a family immersed in the Korean barbecue industry, decides to enroll in a comedy camp for children led by one of her beloved YouTube personalities. However, everyone at the camp, including the instructor, mistakes...
Stand Up, Yumi Chung!
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Setting                                             A nonfiction book providing enlightening and motivating perspectives on the lives, skills, and creativity of the women who have contributed to Disney Animation throughout the years, including sculptors, painters, and story artists.
Pencils, Pens & Brushes: Girls' Disney Guide
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Setting                                          The Gaither sisters are having an engaging and amusing summer as they journey from New York to California to visit the mother they hardly know. She prefers that they participate in the nearby Black Panther summer camp rather than disturb her while sh...
Gaither Sisters Trilogy Box Set
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Setting                                        Upon relocating to San Francisco with her family, 12-year-old Emily embarks on a quest to uncover the mystery surrounding her literary hero, Garrison Griswold. Following his recent attack and subsequent coma, Emily stumbles upon a book believed to be...
Book Scavenger
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Setting                                         Penelope, a 10-year-old girl, is thrilled and eager to discover more about her upcoming sibling. Through Penelope's story, readers are shown the anticipation, enthusiasm, curiosity, and educational aspects of preparing to welcome a new family member...
Love, Penelope
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Setting                                           A tale of two seventh graders, Drew and Mia, unfolds as they each face unique challenges at home and find solace in running. Despite their differences, they come together to prepare for and participate in the Half Moon Bay's half marathon. Through t...
Half Moon Summer
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Setting                                        The summer following seventh grade turns out to be more challenging than expected for Ruby Chu. She finds herself feeling lost without her friends, coping with her sister's departure for college, and mourning the loss of her Grandfather Ye Ye, who us...
Ruby Lost and Found
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Africa

Africa, the enchanting continent of diverse cultures, rich history, and breathtaking landscapes, has been a wellspring of inspiration for countless authors.

 
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Setting The narrative revolves around Wangari Muta Maathai, popularly known as "Mama Mitit," who became the first African woman to receive a Nobel Peace Prize. She was the founder of the Green Belt Movement in the 1970s, an organization that facilita...
Mama Miti: Wangari Maathai and the Trees of Kenya
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Setting An African folktale recounts a variation of the traditional Cinderella narrative, featuring Mufaro and her two daughters, Nyasha, characterized by kindness and consideration, and Manyara, known for her selfish and bad-tempered nature. When th...
Mufaro's Beautiful Daughters: An African Tale
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Setting During his childhood in Johannesburg, South Africa, Hector, a soccer enthusiast, aspired to play on a proper field with children from different places, but apartheid restrictions prevented him from doing so. As apartheid began to fall apart i...
The Soccer Fence: A Story of Hope & Friendship
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Setting A compilation of African folktales, fables, and fairytales showcasing stories that involve animals and teach valuable lessons on perils, triumph against the odds, and human nature.
Nelson Mandela's Favorite African Folktales
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Author A tale of Ebele, who dreams of creating a special and unforgettable Christmas for his...
Wish Maker
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Setting Lumush and his friends in Railway Estate stumble upon an abandoned house rumored to be haunted, only to discover a more sinister truth lurking within – the notorious Mwachuma. By day, Mwachuma appears as a scrapyard worker, but by night, he a...
Playing a Dangerous Game - Junior Library Guild
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Setting Omar and his brother, Hassan, reside in Dadaab, a challenging refugee camp in Kenya. Despite facing hardships such as food scarcity and lack of medical care for Hassan, Omar sees education as a potential pathway to a better future. However, t...
When Stars Are Scattered: National Book Award
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Setting In the "Dumb" Orphans: The Bandu Bunch Trilogy by Allan Low, readers are immersed in a captivating tale of friendship and adventure. The story follows a group of orphans, known as the Bandu Bunch, who embark on a series of daring escapades to...
"Dumb" Orphans: The Bundu Bunch Trilogy
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Argentina

All books are Author & Setting. Argentina isn't just known for its vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and delicious cuisine; it's also a treasure trove of literary masterpieces. From passionate tales of the tango to haunting reflections of its...

 
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When faced with an unexpected elephant named Dailan Kifki at their doorstep, complete with a peculiar letter, one would likely embrace the unusual visitor. However, when Dailan Kifki falls ill and perches atop a tree, only the fire brigade can offer ...
An Elephantasy by María Elena Walsh | 9781782690993
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Discover the remarkable journey of Leo Messi, a soccer prodigy who overcame challenges to become one of the greatest players in history. From playing in the streets of Argentina to winning trophies with FC Barcelona and the national team, Messi's ded...
Leo Messi - Little People, BIG DREAMS
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In the Andean foothills, a young Quechua girl named Picu undertakes a significant task for her large, impoverished family: fetching a marrow bone for their soup. Despite her mother's warnings, Picu gets distracted on her journey, captivated by nature...
The Youngest Sister (Aldana Libros)
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Illustrated with luminous paint and cut-paper art, this debut work by an Argentinian self-taught artist is a visually stunning ode to the wonders of storytelling and the boundless realms of the mind.
When You Look Up: Decur, Roberts, Chloe Garcia
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Gusti, an illustrator and writer, crafted a poignant diary, journal, and illustrated tale intertwined, chronicling the life of his son Mallko, who has Down Syndrome. This exceptional book, honored as the top work in the disability category at the 201...
Mallko & Dad: Gusti, Lethem, Mara
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Australia

Australia, with its vast landscapes and rich cultural tapestry, has produced a remarkable array of literature that reflects the diverse experiences and stories of its people. From sprawling outback narratives to urban dramas, the literary works craft...

 
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Setting - Livy returns to her grandmother's house in Australia after five years, sensing she's forgotten something crucial. She's right—Bob, a small greenish creature in a chicken suit, has been waiting in a closet for her return. Bob remembers Livy ...
Bob
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Author - On the day of Cassie's birth, her town was submerged underwater as part of a celebratory event led by the mayor. Twelve years later, Cassie is inexplicably drawn to the manmade lake that now covers Old Lower Grange. She and her classmate Lia...
Below
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Author - In Vallen, ice wolves and scorch dragons are sworn enemies. When twelve-year-old orphan Anders discovers his elemental form differs from his twin sister Rayna's, he questions their connection. Despite Rayna being claimed by the dragons, Ande...
Elementals: Ice Wolves
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Brazil

Brazilian literature is an intricate tapestry of narratives that provide an authentic glimpse into the hearts and minds of its people. These stories are not only literary gifts but also serve as cultural bridges that illuminate Brazil's diverse histo...

 
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Setting -Turtle, who loves to dance and play the flute, faces danger when her music draws a hunter's attention, leading to her capture for turtle stew. Her escape relies on the hunter's children and her own cleverness. This Brazilian folktale, now to...
The Dancing Turtle: A Folktale from Brazil
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Author - Saudade is a deep, melancholic longing for something once cherished, a feeling familiar to anyone who has reminisced about a place, person, or experience. This Portuguese and Galician term, with no perfect English translation, is explored th...
Saudade: Our Longing for Brazil
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Setting and Author - Clara eagerly anticipates celebrating Carnaval, her favorite holiday, with her family, especially her great-grandmother. Although her great-grandmother, Bisa, might not attend, Clara feels the parade will remain special. Everyone...
Bisa's Carnaval
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Canada

Canadian literature is a rich tapestry woven from countless stories reflecting the diverse cultures, landscapes, and histories of this vast country. From the breathtaking mountains of British Columbia to the lively streets of Toronto, books set in Ca...

 
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Setting and Author The Boundless embarks on its inaugural journey across the country, and young Will Everett finds himself in the midst of an extraordinary adventure. When he inadvertently acquires a key to a train car filled with priceless treasures...
The Boundless
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Canadian Setting Nalvana feels overshadowed by her friends who possess superpowers like super speed and super strength, excelling in various activities. She believes she's the only one without a special ability. However, her mom helps her realize tha...
What's My Superpower?
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Canadian Author A young boy begins his summer day by gazing at the sea, his thoughts drifting to his father, who works as a miner beneath the ocean. Throughout his day, filled with tasks like visiting a friend, running errands for his mother, and vis...
Town Is by the Sea
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Canadian Author Anne, a lively and imaginative orphan with red hair, arrives at the home of Matthew and Marilla Cuthbert on Prince Edward Island, unexpectedly altering their tranquil life. Initially expecting a boy to assist with their farm, the sibl...
Anne of Green Gables
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China

China is a country rich in history and culture, producing a fascinating array of literature that reveals diverse stories and unique viewpoints. From timeless classics to modern tales, Chinese literature invites readers to explore societal values, fam...
 
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Chinese Setting Did you know that Chinese ships, longer than a football field, sailed thousands of miles and visited over 30 nations 85 years before Columbus discovered America? This is the incredible tale of Admiral Zheng He's seven epic voyages. St...
Adventures of the Treasure Fleet: China
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Chinese Setting Li Li Wang is celebrating Chinese New Year with her family when her grandparents invite her to join them. Before presenting Li Li with her holiday gift, they share the tale of Ting Ting Wang, Li Li's ancestor, and her journey to becom...
Ting Ting, the Girl Who Saved China
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Chinese Setting + Author When Grace moves to Hong Kong, her main worry is fitting in at her new boarding school. However, her life takes an unexpected turn when an old woman gives her a dragon egg during a field trip. To her amazement, the egg hatche...
The Awakening Storm: City of Dragons #1
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Cuba

Cuba is not just a sun-soaked paradise; it is a wellspring of literary brilliance. The island, renowned for its vibrant culture and rich history, is home to stories that capture the resilience and spirit of its people.
 
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Cuban Setting and Author The Red Umbrella tells the poignant story of 14-year-old Lucía Álvarez, who is uprooted from her carefree life in Cuba amidst Fidel Castro's revolution and sent to America as part of Operation Pedro Pan. With over 14,000 chil...
The Red Umbrella
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Cuban Setting and Author Margarita is caught between two worlds: her heart belongs to Cuba, her mother's vibrant island, yet she resides in the bustling city of Los Angeles, dreaming of summers on the island. Her solace lies in words and images amids...
Enchanted Air: Two Cultures, Two Wings: A Memoir
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Cuban Author The Last Beekeeper tells the story of twelve-year-old Yolanda Cicerón, who battles to save the world's last beehive from extinction amid a climate-ravaged environment and exploitative humans. In a future marred by climate disasters, Yoly...
The Last Beekeeper
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Colorado

Colorado, famed for its stunning landscapes and breathtaking mountains, is not just a playground for outdoor enthusiasts. It also has a vibrant literary history that enthralls book lovers and literary scholars alike. From the towering Rockies to char...
 
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Colorado Setting Twelve-year-old Maddie's plan for a secret sleepover with her best friends turns into a nightmare when she wakes up to find her town mysteriously evacuated. Alone, without power or communication, Maddie learns to survive with the hel...
Alone
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Colorado Setting Hugo is frustrated about moving to Colorado because of his dad's midlife crisis and new career as a ski instructor. Being small and often teased as a "leprechaun," he dreads his first day at a new middle school. However, when his cla...
One Kid's Trash
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Colorado Setting JJ Jacobson thought he was in for a typical ghost-hunting weekend when he convinced his mom to accept an invitation to the Barclay Hotel. However, the weekend takes a dramatic turn when his mother is accused of the hotel owner's murd...
Midnight at the Barclay Hotel
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Denmark

 
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Setting and Characters
Number the Stars
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Connecticut

The literary landscape of Colorado is as rich and varied as its breathtaking topography. From timeless classics to contemporary works, the authors and stories connected to this state invite readers on unforgettable journeys. By embracing the deep the...

 
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Author                                    Henry, Jessie, Violet, and Benny Alden support each other with a deep bond in a world without parental figures. Their only family link is a grandfather they prefer to avoid, relying instead on their mutual love and support. Facing life’s challenges a...
The Boxcar Children
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Author                                                         The Pyes are an irresistible family in Cranberry, featuring Mrs. Pye, the town's youngest mother, and Mr. Pye, a renowned bird expert frequently summoned to Washington. Their children, Rachel and Jerry, view the world with fresh perspectives, often ...
Ginger Pye
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Author                                                            In 1938, Tomie's family begins constructing their new home at 26 Fairmount Avenue, coinciding with a hurricane that marks a hectic year. Amidst the chaos, Tomie embarks on his own adventures, such as mistakenly consuming chocolate laxatives with his ...
26 Fairmount Avenue
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Setting                                          Eleven-year-old Rigel Harman loves her life in off-the-grid Alaska. She hunts rabbits, takes correspondence classes through the mail, and plays dominoes with her family in their two-room cabin. She doesn’t mind not having electricity or running water...
365 Days to Alaska
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Delaware

Delaware's literary roots run deep, with historical connections tracing back to the state's earliest settlers. The first notable figure in Delaware's literary history is John Dickinson, an influential statesman and one of the founding fathers of the ...

 
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Setting - Annie Jump Cannon's biography highlights her remarkable achievements in astronomy, showcasing her development of a star classification system and her record for identifying more stars than anyone else. In 1925, she made history as the first...
Annie Jump Cannon
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Setting - In 1861, Amelia Martin's father loses his position as a ship's captain for aiding a slave rebellion leader and becomes an assistant lighthouse keeper on Fenwick Island, Delaware. This state is caught between the North and South, much like A...
Dear America: A Light in the Storm
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Setting - In Dover, Delaware, 1776, George and Gracie embark on an adventure where Gracie transforms into a horse whenever they travel. Their mission is to return antique school desks and find their parents, but they get caught up in the American Rev...
The Rescue Begins in Delaware (Just in Time)
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Author - Elle Deluca, a twelve-year-old seventh grader, stands out at six feet tall. Her height has her basketball team eager for her to take on the role of starting center. However, Elle faces another challenge in gym class, where she must learn bal...
Elle of the Ball (1) (Hoops)
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Florida

Florida’s diverse landscapes and cultures provide a perfect backdrop for children's and middle-grade literature. From adventures in the Everglades to explorations of coastal life, these stories spark the imagination of young readers eager to experien...

 
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Setting  - Series: Freddy the Pig 1-Published: January 1, 1927 - Ages: 8+ - Genres: Fantasy, Fiction                                                         "Freddy Goes to Florida" is a delightful children's adventure novel by Walter R. Brooks, following a group of animals from Bean Farm on their journey to Florida to escape the harsh northern winters. Along the way, they experience a series of adventu...
Freddy Goes to Florida
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Setting-Series: Sunny 1-Published: August 25, 2015-Ages: 8+ -Genres: Realistic Fiction Format: Graphic Novel      Sunny Lewin's summer vacation takes an unexpected turn when she's sent to Florida to stay with her grandfather. Initially, she imagines Florida as a fun destination with Disney World, but Gramps' community is filled with elderly residents, far from a...
Sunny Side Up (Sunny #1)
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Setting - Published: January 1, 1979 Ages: 6+ Genres: Nonfiction, Animals, Science                          Meet Sam the sea cow, a lovable manatee, in this beautifully illustrated picture book perfect for animal enthusiasts. Known as a sea cow for his resemblance to a cow grazing in the ocean, Sam embarks on a touching adventure from his birth, when he we...
Sam the Sea Cow (Reading Rainbow)
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Setting - Published: March 1, 2000 Ages: 8+ Genres: Realistic Fiction, Animals                  When Opal and her preacher father move to Naomi, Florida, she finds a dog at the Winn-Dixie supermarket, naming him after the store. This big, scruffy dog, Winn-Dixie, helps Opal learn about her absent mother through stories her father shares. Togeth...
Because of Winn-Dixie

France

France has a storied tradition of children's literature that has captivated young readers for generations. These books not only entertain but also impart valuable life lessons and moral values.

 
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Paris Setting                                           A young girl named Chantal, living in Nazi-occupied Paris during World War II, discovers a small, lost whale in the Seine and befriends him. She names him Franklin, inspired by the American president. As the Parisians face starvation and the Nazis s...
A Whale in Paris
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Paris Setting                                     Hugo, an orphan and thief, survives by living secretly within the walls of a bustling Paris train station. His life depends on keeping secrets and remaining anonymous. However, his world changes when he encounters an eccentric girl who loves books a...
The Invention of Hugo Cabret
 
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Paris Setting                                  Sophie, believed to be an orphan after a shipwreck, clings to the memory of her mother waving for help, challenging the notion of impossibility. When the Welfare Agency threatens to send her to an orphanage, her guardian decides to search for her mot...
Rooftoppers
 
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France Setting                                                   In 1242, travelers gather at a French inn to share tales of three extraordinary children. Their journey weaves through France, involving captures by knights, encounters with a king, and a daring rescue from a farting dragon. Fleeing prejudice, they ...
The Inquisitor's Tale: Three Magical Children
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Paris Setting                                                      A heartwarming Newbery Honor-winning tale, this classic middle grade novel, featuring illustrations by Garth Williams, tells the story of Armand, an old man enjoying a solitary life on the streets of Paris. As Christmas approaches, Armand's carefree ...
The Family Under the Bridge: Newbery Honor
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France Setting                                                    A tall girl with a fear of heights? When Renée Marie's class visits the Eiffel Tower, she prefers to remain on the ground rather than ascend to the top.
Maya's World: Renee Marie of France
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France Setting                                              On a sweltering August day in Paris over a century ago, chaos erupted when it was discovered that the Mona Lisa had vanished from the Louvre. Speculation ran wild: was it the work of an international gang, a wealthy American art collector, or perhaps...
The Mona Lisa Vanishes: A Shocking Heist
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France Setting                                                    From the Mixed-Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler meets Merci Suarez in this engaging young middle-grade mystery. Nine-year-old Julieta is thrilled to visit Paris with her art-handler dad, leaving behind her very pregnant mom. Their adventure take...
Julieta and the Diamond Enigma