Winter Reading 2022: Great books for Gr. 4-7 students this season!

At long last, winter break is here! And with a well-deserved two weeks at home, it’s the perfect time to curl up with a good book.

We’re continuing our Winter Reading series with three recommendations for Grade 4-7 students from Morgan Elementary teacher-librarian Nicole Hurtubise. Here’s what’s on her list for pre-teens this winter break.

The Insiders by Mark Oshiro

Three kids who don’t belong. A room that shouldn’t exist. A year that will change everything.

Most days, Héctor just wishes he could disappear. And he does, right into the janitor’s closet. But one day, when the door closes behind him, Héctor discovers he’s stumbled into a room that shouldn’t be possible. A room that connects him with two new friends from different corners of the country – and opens the door to a life-changing year full of magic, friendship, and adventure.

Swim Team by Jonnie Christmas

What if your physical education class was all about swimming, but you couldn’t swim?

Bree can’t wait for her first day at her new middle school, Enith Brigitha, home to the Mighty Manatees – until she’s stuck with the only elective that fits her schedule, the dreaded Swim 101. The thought of swimming makes Bree more than a little queasy, yet she’s forced to dive headfirst into one of her greatest fears. Lucky for her, Etta, an elderly occupant of her apartment building and former swim team captain, is willing to help.

Elvis, Me and the Lemonade Stand Summer by Leslie Gentile

Most people think Elvis Presley died a year ago but perhaps no one ever thought to look for him on an Indigenous reserve on Vancouver Island.

The summer of 1978 is a busy summer for Truly. She is determined to raise as much money for herself as she can through her lemonade stand… and to prove that her cool new neighbour is the one and only King of Rock ‘n’ Roll. And when she can’t find motherly support in her own home, she finds sanctuary with Andy El, the Salish woman who runs the trailer park. Sometimes family is who you choose.

There are lots of great books to choose from for intermediate readers this holiday season! See also some excellent primary reads recommended by Georges Vanier Elementary teacher-librarian Donna Chua, and stay tuned for recommendations for secondary students in our Winter Reading series!