Middle Grade - Neurodivergence
This list features books with main and secondary characters who are neurodivergent. Neurodivergency is loosely defined as neurological difference such as ADHD, Autism, Sensory Processing Disorder, as well as many others.
Clea is constantly getting distracted, blurting words out, and forgetting things. It even starts to ruin chess--her favorite activity. She knows she needs to focus, but it feels like her brain is working against her. After getting tested, Clea finds out she has ADHD, but the diagnosis is just the beginning. Now she has to figure out the next steps. Relatable for readers with or without ADHD, Clea’s story is one of growth and learning to be a self-advocate.
(Suggested Ages: 8-12)
Neurodivergent Frankie has dealt with her fair share of 7th grade drama. Exacerbated by her hatred of loud noises and touching and her inability to stay focused, she’s had a hard time keeping friends. When her former best friend goes missing, Frankie’s going to have to be strong and work with others to untangle this mysterious disappearance. An intriguing mystery told with a powerful voice and sprinkled with tornado facts, allows readers to truly see inside Frankie’s head and understand her struggles.
(Suggested Ages: 10-14)
Told through a dog’s eyes, this story explores the unlikely friendship that forms between Chester, a failed service dog who’s destined to a life as a normal pet, and Gus, a nonverbal ten-year-old boy with autism. A great choice for a young middle grade reader who enjoys learning about everyone’s differences.
(Suggested Ages: 7-11)
Navigating 6th grade is hard enough for any kid, with new friends, a new school, and new uniforms. But Tally’s autism makes adjusting extra hard for her. The new uniforms are scratchy, her friend has started acting differently, and everyone seems to care about fashion and popularity--two topics which are foreign to Tally. She decides the best way to conquer middle school is by hiding her autism. But soon she learns that maybe fitting in isn’t all it’s cracked up to be. Based on Libby Scott’s own experience living with autism, this story is full of great representation and a true voice.
(Suggested Ages: 9-12)
Lou lives in a truck with her mom, who forces her to sing at the local coffee shop instead of going to school. Lou doesn’t like it, the crowds, loud noises, and touching is just too much for her. Child services finds out about their homelessness and separates the pair, sending Lou to live with her aunt and uncle. With their help, she learns that her sensory processing disorder doesn’t mean there’s something wrong with her, she just experiences the world differently. Perfect for emotionally mature middle grade readers who enjoy experiencing the world through another’s eyes.
(Suggested Ages: 10-14)
Willa has sensory processing disorder, which means that certain textures and feelings bother her. She manages it well, through calming techniques, routines, and occupational therapy but doesn’t let her classmates, or even her best friend Ruby, find out. When her dad reveals that he’s been dating Ruby’s mom, Willa’s home world and school world begin to combine and she’s scared for the result. Relatable for any kid whose parent is remarrying or otherwise going through big life changes.
(Suggested Ages: 8-12)
Ally has made it to sixth grade without being able to read. It’s not that she doesn’t try, but the letters just don’t seem to make sense in her brain. Her new substitute teacher notices her struggling and begins to work with her one-on-one. After being diagnosed with dyslexia, Ally learns that it’s okay and she can still be her usual creative self. Great story for anyone who feels different or academically behind.
(Suggested Ages: 8-12)