Why The Ice House is the Perfect Christmas Gift for Middle Schoolers
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What are some good winter-themed fiction books to read for middle schoolers?
Looking for the perfect Christmas presents 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.
Set in a world where winter seems never-ending, in The Ice House, 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. This is realistic fiction — almost too realistic. 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.
It may not be as good as a favorite from my own childhood, The Lion, The Witch, and the Wardrobe, but it does give that same cozy feeling that comes from reading a book about being cold when you are, in fact, warm.
Like so many of the characters in the best books for middle grades, Louisa is forced to adapt, leading to a journey of resilience, and friendship.
Like so many of the best books for middle grades, 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 present ideas for tweens and middle schoolers
When looking for Christmas presents for middle schoolers, consider getting them a middle grade novel 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 is an example of the way that providing fiction books to read for middle schoolers 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.
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About The Ice House
The Ice House is a magical realism middle grade novel about friendship, change, and grief. It's a great classroom read for 8 - 12 year old students exploring climate change, family, and the importance of friendship.
