Can you recommend books to teach realistic fiction in middle school?

Sure. 'The Giver' by Lois Lowry is a great choice. It presents a seemingly utopian but actually dystopian society in a very realistic way, making students think about freedom and individuality. 'Hatchet' by Gary Paulsen is also good. It shows a boy's struggle for survival in the wilderness, which is a very real - life situation that can engage middle - school students. Another one is 'Freak the Mighty' which deals with friendship between two boys with different abilities.

One great book is 'Wonder' by R. J. Palacio. It tells the story of a boy with a facial deformity who goes to school for the first time. It's really inspiring and shows how kindness can overcome differences. Another is 'The Outsiders' by S. E. Hinton, which is about two groups of teenagers from different social classes.

For reluctant readers, 'Diary of a Wimpy Kid' series by Jeff Kinney is really good. The simple yet humorous illustrations and the relatable story of a middle - schooler's daily life can easily draw them in. Another is 'Big Nate' by Lincoln Peirce. The funny and light - hearted adventures of Nate are easy to follow and enjoy.

There are several books. For instance, 'Holes' by Louis Sachar. It has a unique story that is set in a real - world - like juvenile detention camp. The characters are complex and the plot unfolds realistically. 'Because of Winn - Dixie' by Kate DiCamillo is another one. It tells the story of a young girl and her dog, and how they form relationships in a small town. It's full of real - life emotions like loneliness, friendship, and forgiveness.

One great book from 1960 could be 'To Kill a Mockingbird' by Harper Lee. It's a powerful story that deals with themes like racial injustice and moral growth through the eyes of a young girl in a small southern town.

They can help students understand different perspectives. For example, in 'The Giver' by Lois Lowry, students can see a world very different from their own and learn about the importance of memory and choice.

Another is 'Wonder' by R.J. Palacio. This book follows Auggie, a boy with a facial deformity, as he enters middle school. It deals with themes of kindness, acceptance, and friendship in a very relatable way for middle schoolers.

One great one is 'The Outsiders' by S. E. Hinton. It tells the story of Ponyboy Curtis and his struggles with class differences and gang rivalries. Another is 'Wonder' by R. J. Palacio, which is about a boy with facial differences entering middle school. 'Bridge to Terabithia' by Katherine Paterson is also excellent. It deals with friendship and loss in a very moving way.

Some great ones include 'The Outsiders' by S.E. Hinton and 'To Kill a Mockingbird' by Harper Lee. They offer real-life insights and engaging stories.

There is also 'Ghost' by Jason Reynolds. It's about a boy named Castle Cranshaw who has a talent for running. The book delves into his past, his family situation, and how running becomes a way for him to deal with his problems and find his place in the world.