Gutman, D. The Homework Machine

Gutman, D.  The Homework Machine

Four fifth-grade students–a geek, a class clown, a teacher’s pet, and a slacker–as well as their teacher and mothers, each relate events surrounding a computer programmed to complete homework assignments.

Haddix, M. Double Identity

Haddix, M.  Double Identity

Thirteen-year-old Bethany’s parents have always been overprotective, but when they suddenly drop out of sight with no explanation, leaving her with an aunt she never knew existed, Bethany uncovers shocking secrets that make her question everything she thought she knew about herself and her family.

Kerrin, J. Martin Bridge: Ready for Takeoff!

Kerrin, J.  Martin Bridge: Ready for Takeoff!

Contains three stories in which a boy’s plans for a rocket, a bus driver, and an old hamster go wrong.

Klise, K. Regarding the Trees

Klise, K.  Regarding the Trees: A Splintered Saga Rooted in Secrets

In this story told primarily through letters, Principal Russ wants the middle school trees to be trimmed before his administrative evaluation, but the project is interrupted by a town gender war, dueling chefs, student tree protests, and a surprise wedding.

Lin, G. The Year of the Dog

Lin, G. The Year of the Dog

Frustrated at her seeming lack of talent for anything, a young Taiwanese American girl sets out to apply the lessons of the Chinese Year of the Dog, those of making best friends and finding oneself, to her own life.

Lombard, J. Drita, My Homegirl

Lombard, J. Drita, My Homegirl

When ten-year-old Drita and her family, refugees from Kosovo, move to New York, Drita is teased about not speaking English well, but after a popular student named Maxine is forced to learn about Kosovo as a punishment for teasing Drita, the two girls soon bond.

Lowry, L. Gossamer

Lowry, L.  Gossamer

While learning to bestow dreams, a young dream giver tries to save an eight-year-old boy from the effects of both his abusive past and the nightmares inflicted on him by the frightening Sinisteeds.

Lubar, D. Punished!

Lubar, D. Punished

Logan and his friend Benedict are playing tag in the library when a mysterious man punishes him for his disrespect by making him speak only in puns.

Lupica, M. Miracle on 49th Street

Lupica, M.  MIracle on 49th Street

After her mother’s death, twelve-year-old Molly learns that her father is a basketball star for the Boston Celtics.

Pearsall, S. All of the Above

Pearsall, S.  All of the Above

Five urban middle school students, their teacher, and other community members relate how a school project to build the world’s largest tetrahedron affects the lives of everyone involved.