Escape the Winter Chill: Why The Ice House is the Perfect Christmas Gift for Middle Schoolers
Looking for the perfect Christmas gift for the middle schoolers in your life? Look no further than "The Ice House," an enchanting middle-grade novel that is a must-read for kids, combining a touch of magic with relatable themes of growing up and changing friendships.
A Tale of Friendship and Magic
Set in a world where winter seems never-ending, sixth-grader Louisa is desperate for answers. Trapped in her apartment with her firefighter dad, little brother, and grieving for her grandmother, Louisa's life feels suffocating. But when she teams up with Luke, her estranged former best friend, to build a house of snow and ice in their backyard, they stumble upon a hidden magic that could change everything.
Adaptation, Resilience, and Friendship
The Ice House novel offers young readers a chance to reflect on their own experiences during remote learning and quarantine, and also explores the importance of friendship. The book dives deep into themes of adaptation, resilience, and the challenges of family dynamics in times of stress and grief.
Like many of the best books for tweens, The Ice House examines change: in friendships, between siblings, and middle school. Through the eyes of pragmatic hero Louisa, readers learn that even in the face of tragedy and upheaval, there is room for happiness, creativity, and humor.
You can read more about how I came to write The Ice House at the Nerdy Book Club, and check out Cody Sharp’s video book review for additional insight.
Christmas gift ideas for tweens
When looking for Christmas presents for elementary students, consider getting them middle-grade novels like The Ice House. It's a great book for tweens to read during their winter break, especially when they're bored with their new toys and want something cozy indoors.
So, why not give the gift of imagination and resilience this Christmas? The Ice House is the perfect choice for middle schoolers, offering an enchanting escape while also imparting valuable life lessons.
In a time where uncertainty and change are prevalent, The Ice House serves as a reminder that even the worst changes can be overcome and transformed into something beautiful. Louisa's journey of rebuilding and finding solace in her friendships resonates with readers of all ages, reminding us that resilience and connection are essential in navigating difficult times.
Give the tween in your life a chance to dive into the enchanting world of The Ice House and discover the power of hope and friendship in the face of adversity.
The Ice House is available as an audiobook, hardcover, as an ebook, and now in paperback, too! Support your local bookstore this year by requesting The Ice House, or check out Bookshop.org to support independent booksellers.
Building Resilience and Empathy: A Must-Have Social Emotional Learning Book List for Middle Graders (PDF)
Discover the power of chapter and middle grade books in building resilience and empathy. Download the must-have social emotional learning book list for middle graders in PDF format.
Looking for an empowering and enriching reading list to help your middle graders develop resilience and empathy? Look no further!
My social emotional learning book list is the ultimate resource for nurturing important social emotional skills while capturing young minds through the power of storytelling. Packed with engaging narratives, relatable characters, and thought-provoking themes, this handpicked collection will inspire deep reflection and meaningful conversations.
I’ve curated this list to help young readers navigate the complexities of emotions and relationships while also looking for texts that model important literary concepts that align with middle school ELA standards.
I decided to come up with this list because I’ve actually been seeking out middle grade books that align with key SEL competencies as I work on my next middle grade novel. I’ve been looking for examples that do a wonderful job of exploring the importance of SEL skills without it feeling forced or too intentional so that it distracts from the story. Some of my favorites have been included, and I hope it helps you find books that your young readers (or you yourself!) can connect with.
Understanding Social Emotional Learning (SEL)
Social Emotional Learning (SEL) focuses on helping developing skills that promote self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship skills, and responsible decision-making.
We all know that we want our young people to have the skills they need to navigate the complexities of life and form healthy relationships. Middle graders, in particular, are at a crucial stage of their emotional and social development, making SEL concepts even more important.
I’m glad that schools are finally focusing on the importance of equipping kids with an education in how to respectfully and thoughtfully advocate for themselves, take accountability for their choices, and have empathy for others — it’s something that I’m sure we all wish we’d had as a part of our education growing up.
However, I’m a former teacher, so I realize that weaving SEL into existing instructional time is one more difficult expectation being placed on educators right now. This list, and my SEL guide, can help you find books that incorporate SEL by genre — a little cheat sheet to make finding the right book for your readers a tiny bit easier.
Why is it Important to Build Resilience and Empathy in Middle Graders?
Resilience and empathy are two key qualities that are closely tied to social emotional development. Resilience enables children to bounce back from setbacks, adapt to change, and persevere through challenges. Empathy, on the other hand, allows them to understand and share the feelings of others, fostering a sense of compassion and kindness. By cultivating these skills early on, we can empower middle graders to become resilient individuals who are capable of building strong, meaningful relationships with others.
Benefits of Using Books for Social Emotional Learning
We all know the power of books for learning and growth: they expose children to a diverse range of characters and situations, allowing them to experience different perspectives and develop a deeper understanding of themselves and others. Books also provide a safe space for children to explore complex emotions, as they can relate to characters and their struggles. This helps them develop empathy and emotional intelligence, which are crucial components of SEL.
And, as a teacher, weaving SEL competencies into existing ELA curricular work can reduce the amount of time you have to devote to developing new tools and lesson plans for SEL instruction.
The Impact of Social Emotional Learning on Academic Performance
Research has shown that social emotional learning not only enhances emotional well-being but also has a positive impact on academic performance. When children have a strong foundation in SEL, they are better able to manage stress, regulate their emotions, and maintain focus in the classroom. This leads to improved concentration, better problem-solving skills, and increased motivation to learn. Additionally, SEL helps create a supportive classroom environment where students feel safe to take risks, collaborate with their peers, and actively participate in their education.
Criteria for Selecting Books for the Book List
When creating my social emotional learning book list for middle graders, here’s what I focused on.
The books should feature relatable characters and situations that resonate with this age group. Middle graders are going through significant changes in their lives, so it is crucial to choose books that address their specific concerns and challenges.
The books should promote positive values such as empathy, resilience, inclusivity, and kindness. These values will help shape the moral compass of middle graders and guide their social interactions.
Lastly, the books should be engaging and well-written, capturing the attention and imagination of young readers.
How to Use the Book List Effectively
To make the most of the social emotional learning book list, feel free to incorporate it into a comprehensive SEL curriculum OR your existing ELA curriculum. You can introduce each book by discussing the themes and topics it addresses, allowing students to share their thoughts and feelings.
Classroom discussions can focus on the characters' emotions, actions, and the lessons they learn throughout the story. Teachers can also encourage students to reflect on how they can apply these lessons to their own lives and interactions with others. By integrating the book list into the curriculum, teachers can create a holistic learning experience that combines literature, SEL, and personal growth.
Incorporating Social Emotional Learning into the Classroom Curriculum
In addition to using the book list, there are various ways to incorporate social emotional learning into the classroom curriculum. You can allocate specific time for SEL activities, such as mindfulness exercises, journaling, and group discussions. You can also integrate SEL into other subjects, like incorporating empathy-building activities into social studies lessons or teaching conflict resolution skills during group projects.
I’ve also created an SEL + ELA Freebie Guide that provides SEL competency aligned activities and discussion points that are also aligned to ELA curriculum teaching points which you can grab here!
Building resilience and empathy in middle graders is essential for their social, emotional, and academic development. I hope this book list helps you as you continue to nurture your kiddos by fostering skills that will benefit them throughout their lives.
Building a Community of Readers: The Power of Book Clubs in Middle School
Discover the impact of book clubs in middle school and find the perfect book club books for middle schoolers to foster a love for reading and build a strong community.
Building a Community of Readers:
The Power of Book Clubs in Middle School
As a former special ed teacher, reading tutor, creative writing tutor, and a children’s book author, I tend to get the same questions from educators, librarians, and parents of young readers regularly, and I love it.
These questions all tend to revolve around how to encourage kids to find joy in reading. I totally get it! In a world with shorter attention spans and many ways to pass time, I notice that adults worry about ensuring children understand the importance of reading and make it a part of their lives. We need to make reading meaningful to young people. If we want to foster a love of books in our classrooms and libraries, we need to put the emphasis on their experiences and their ability to connect to books.
Book clubs are one avenue I always recommend educators explore with their middle schoolers. Book clubs build community, empower readers, and offer a peer driven approach to reading comprehension and building connection.
Book clubs are so valuable because they can reach young readers in a way teachers or librarians or parents can’t. In connecting to themes and discussing them with each other, kids experience books differently.
So, if you’re feeling that spark of curiosity and have your own questions about introducing or reinvigorating middle school book clubs to your group of readers, I’m going to share with you some of the book club-centric questions that frequent my inbox. I think that in reading the answers to these common questions, you’ll gain clarity on how a book club might work for your readers.
Why are Book Clubs Important for Middle Schoolers?
Middle school is a wild time for kids. Think about it: they’re entering a very confusing period emotionally, socially, and developmentally. It’s natural for them to struggle to maintain focus on a book they’ve been forced to read when so many more immediate concerns, emotions, and anxieties are floating through their minds.
Book clubs, on the other hand, are student driven. They offer kids the opportunity to lead discussions about the aspects of a book they’re interested in. As teachers shift into facilitation instead of direct instruction, the student-to-student dynamic shifts, too. Peers begin to share their thoughts: their reaction to a protagonist’s gutsy decision, or their anger at an antagonist’s choices. Students spark a conversation about what resonated with them in a specific chapter. These peer-led group conversations can bring characters and situations to life for kids, who are empowered to express their opinions, and given the opportunity to practice listening to others.
Strong book clubs provide an outlet for kids to have conversations about books in a different way, one that allows them to share their own experiences and feelings with one another. They promote a sense of belonging, as well as a deeper appreciation for books and improved critical thinking skills. To discuss your own feelings about and connection to a book, a reader has to analyze a book’s major events, character development, themes, etc. to be an active member of a group discussion.
Discussion Topics and Activities for Book Club Meetings
Let's explore some discussion topics and activities that will ensure your book club meetings have direction:
1. Character Analysis
Encourage students to dive deep into the characters' lives, motivations, and relationships. Discuss how characters change and grow throughout the book. Ask questions like "How does the protagonist's journey inspire you?" or "Which character would you like to be friends with, and why?"
2. Theme Exploration
Explore the themes presented in the book and their relevance to the students' lives. Discuss topics like friendship, family, identity, or overcoming challenges. Encourage students to share personal experiences that relate to the themes and how they can apply the lessons learned in their own lives.
3. Book-related Activities
Organize book-related activities to enhance the students' understanding and enjoyment of the book. This could include creating artwork inspired by the book, acting out scenes, or even cooking a dish mentioned in the story. These activities will make the book come alive and create a deeper connection between the students and the story.
Tips for Running a Successful Book Club
Running a successful book club for middle schoolers does require planning and organization. Here are some tips to ensure a smooth and enriching experience for your students:
1. Choose age-appropriate books
Selecting books that are suitable for middle schoolers is crucial. Look for diverse books that address relevant themes and feature relatable characters. Consider group reading levels and interests to set each book club group up for success.
2. Create a welcoming environment
It’s important that every student is given the chance to feel comfortable expressing their thoughts and ideas. Set clear guidelines for participation, behavior, and how to respond to different opinions respectfully. To ensure everyone has an opportunity to contribute to the club, consider providing the option for written responses or reflection to questions for those students who are shy, or for those that need more processing time to develop their thoughts and feelings. These can be shared in a way that makes every student feel comfortable.
3. Plan engaging activities
Book clubs should go beyond just discussing the book. Plan interactive activities that enhance the reading experience. These can include role-playing, creative writing exercises, or even organizing a book-themed event or field trip. Engaging activities will make the book club meetings more memorable and enjoyable for the students.
And, if you have a book club reading The Ice House, let me know! I’m always happy to do a 20 minute virtual FAQ with a group of students!
The Ice House: A Perfect Choice for Middle School Book Clubs
Now, let's turn our attention to The Ice House, my middle grade novel that is perfect for book clubs, if I do say so myself (and is available for preorder in paperback now!). The book explores themes of friendship, resilience, and self-discovery.
From a strictly practical perspective, it’s a great book club choice because it was printed with a book club guide in the back, which makes prepping questions much easier for facilitators!
The Ice House presents young readers with relatable characters and thought-provoking themes: friendship, grief, family dynamics, and the importance of embracing change. The book's relatable characters and engaging plot will captivate middle schoolers' imaginations and spark meaningful discussions.
It also encourages kids to think critically and analyze the choices made by the characters. Because the book takes place during a never ending snow storm, there are aspects about the book that will resonate with kids who experienced virtual learning and quarantine.
It prompts students to reflect on their own experiences and consider how they would handle similar situations. By engaging in discussions about the book, students develop their critical thinking skills, empathy, and understanding of complex emotions.
Themes and Topics Explored in The Ice House
The Ice House touches upon several important themes and topics that resonate with middle schoolers. Some of these include:
1. Friendship and Belonging
The book explores the challenges of shifting dynamics between friends, navigating feelings around middle school social status, outgrowing friendships, and being unsure of how or where we fit in.
2. Resilience and Overcoming Challenges
Louisa, the protagonist, showcases the power of resilience and hope in the face of uncertainty. Students can reflect on their own challenges and discuss strategies for overcoming obstacles and the importance of hope.
3. Normalizing Grief and Loss
Louisa and Luke’s experiences navigating grief in their own families offer a backdrop for students to reflect on their own family dynamics, how they feel about loss in their own lives, and the concept of grief and its impact on a family. While some may feel that this would be a heavy topic to discuss in a book club, these themes are there for readers that have experienced loss to feel less alone. Readers can see that even though grief and loss are often not discussed openly, they are not alone.
Discussion Questions for The Ice House
The Ice House actually includes a book club guide at the end! But, to kickstart meaningful discussions about The Ice House, here are some thought-provoking questions to explore with your book club:
How does the ice house symbolize change?
Discuss the different types of friendships portrayed in the book. Which friendship resonated with you the most, and why?
How does Louisa’s journey relate to your own experiences? How about Luke’s?
The book explores the theme of resilience. Can you think of a time when you demonstrated resilience in your own life? How did it impact you?
What lessons can we learn from The Ice House about the importance of embracing change and stepping out of our comfort zones?
Other Recommended Book Club Books for Middle Schoolers
In addition to The Ice House, there are countless other captivating reads that are perfect for middle school book clubs. Here are a few recommendations:
The Science of Breakable Things by Tae Keller
Something Like Home by Andrea Beatriz Arango
The Giver by Lois Lowry (Have to throw in a few favorites from my own childhood library book club!)
Because of Winn Dixie by Kate Dicamillo
Starfish by Lisa Fipps
The List of Things That Will Not Change by Rebecca Stead
These books offer rich storytelling, relatable characters, and thought-provoking themes that will engage and empower young minds.
So, gather your students, choose exciting books, and start your own book club adventure.