A crop of books for middle readers

A number of excellent books for middle readers are now in bookstores. Among them is a powerful tale of loss and healing, an imaginative story about sisters told through words and drawings, and a clever take on a classic tale.

"MOCKINGBIRD," by Kathryn Erskine, Philomel, $15.99 (ages 9-12)

Released this past April, "Mockingbird" was named the winner of the 2010 National Book Award for Young People's Literature on Nov. 18.

The novel tells the story of Caitlin, a 10-year-old girl with Asperger's syndrome. Caitlin's older brother, Devon, was recently killed in a school shooting. Without Devon, Caitlin is lost. Her brother always helped her understand the world around her.

After Devon's death, Caitlin hears the word "closure" and wonders how it can help. According to the dictionary, closure means "the state of experiencing an emotional conclusion to a difficult life event such as the death of loved one." Caitlin realizes that is what she needs, but she doesn't know where to start.

For Caitlin, everything is black and white, but as she begins her search for closure, she realizes there are colors in between and all around. If only she can reach them.

"Mockingbird" is a beautiful story of healing after unimaginable loss. Told from Caitlin's point of view, the complexities of death become textured. Her way of looking at things opens new doors and offers a jumping off point for further discussion.

"THE MEMORY BANK," by Carolyn Coman and Rob Shepperson, Arthur A. Levine Books, $16.99 (ages 9-12)

Hope Scroggins hasn't had a happy life. About the only good thing about it is her sister, Honey. Their parents are so awful that one day, when the sisters break the rule of "no laughing in the car," they open the door and kick Honey out, leaving her in a cloud of dust.

"Forget her," Hope's parents say. They already have. But Hope can't. She misses her so much all she can do is sleep and dream. Soon, Hope is sleeping so much, her parents all but forget her, too.

But all sleep and no memory-making is serious business. Really. All you have to do is ask the officials at the World Wide Memory Bank. Hope's accounts are in disarray and they've come to the bank's attention. To take care of the matter, Hope is whisked away to the land of memories.