10 Books & Series That Topped “Favorite” Lists in 2020

 

With many schools meeting virtually, students now spend time looking at a screen for both learning and entertainment purposes.  

At Biblionasium, we are always looking for ways to get kids hooked on books as well! 

So, we pulled a list of the most favorited titles & series in 2020. These books got kids reading amid stay-at-home orders and have topped the charts for multiple years — check it out!

 
 

The story of a teacher who makes a real difference in the lives of his students. ✔

A moving narrative that tugs on the heartstrings. ✔

Demonstrates that actions have consequences. ✔

Short, easy-to-read chapters from varying viewpoints. ✔

Appealing to readers of all ages. ✔

Best for ages 8-12.

 
 

Kids Review:

 

►”I thought this book was awesome! You would like it if you enjoy mystery and realistic fiction books.” —Jacob

Other Books in This Series:

 

The story of a young girl with cerebral palsy who has a brilliant mind and a photographic memory. ✔

Touching and endearing. ✔ 

Emphasizes the importance of always treating others with kindness. ✔ 

An eye-opening narrative. ✔

Emphasizes how overcoming difficulties is attainable. ✔

Best for ages 8-12. 

 

Kids Review:

 

►”Different. Smart. Her name is Melody, and all she ever wanted was a normal life. She is the smartest person in her school, but no one knows. This book was one of the best I have read, (so far), and it represents how different and special needs people think.” —Alyson

 
 

A story of redemption and second chances. ✔

Relatable for kids who have felt the urge to bully others or put others down. ✔

A light, positive read. ✔

Emphasizes the power of perspective and reflecting on one’s life choices. ✔

A strong message against bullying. ✔

Best for ages 8-12.
 
 
 
 

Kids Review:

►”Restart was a fun book to read. It can be very interesting to see a perspective of someone’s life when they lost their memory. This story can also tell us who we should be friends with or not, as it can show us if we are friends with the wrong type of people our life can go downhill. ” —Ty

 

 

Diary of a Wimpy Kid meets The Walking Dead✔

The perfect book for any kid who’s ever dreamed of starring in his or her own comic book or video game. ✔

A mixture of text and black-and-white illustrations. ✔

New York Times and USA Today bestselling series. ✔

Holds big thrills… and even bigger laughs. ✔

Best for ages 8-12.   

 

Kids Review:

►“If a zombie apocalypse ever happens, I will be ready because this book tells it all. I also like how instead of starring bloody, scarred grown-ups with big weapons and lots of scary parts, it stars 4 6th graders who always wanted an adventure.” —Max M.

Other Books in This Series:

 

►“If a zombie apocalypse ever happens, I will be ready because this book tells it all. I also like how instead of starring bloody, scarred grown-ups with big weapons and lots of scary parts, it stars 4 6th graders who always wanted an adventure.” —Max M.

 
 

When the Heffley family inherits a large sum of money, their family home undergoes renovations. ✔

Hilarious and action-packed with stories from the construction site. ✔

Entertaining and imaginative. ✔

The fourteenth installment of a long-time loved series. ✔

Brings an amusing twist ending. ✔

Best for ages 8-12. 

 

Kids Review:

► “This was my favorite book because it has a lot of comedy. I also can really relate to the books in the Diary of a Wimpy Kid series. I would recommend it if you love comedy and like books that are about life.” —Milena

Other Books in This Series:

 

The first book in the beloved story of a young boy whose life turns around when he finds out he is a wizard. ✔

Follows three funny, courageous, and endearing friends. ✔

A classic tale of friendship, loyalty, and magic. ✔

Teaches kids that someone can be special without even knowing it. ✔

Exciting, and full of adventure with comic relief. ✔

Best for ages 9-12.

 
 

Kids Review:

►“This book helped me see things in more of a positive way and find my own sense of creativity. This is the first step you will take on a thousand-mile journey, guaranteed.” —Lyn

Other Books in This Series:

 

Hysterical and entertaining story of a policeman with the head of a dog. ✔

From the creator of the Captain Underpants series. ✔

Perfect for graphic novel lovers looking for something engaging. ✔

Full of clever ideas and laugh-out-loud moments. ✔

Narrated by one of the kids in the story, making it easy to connect with. ✔

Best for ages 7-11.   

 

Kids Review:

►“This book is soooo funny! It’s about Dog Man: half-dog, half-human, all hero. This book has a series to go after it, so go to your library, pick out Dog Man, and get reading!” —Eden

Other Books in This Series:

 

Story of a 10-year-old with a physical difference navigating 5th grade. ✔

Upbeat, humorous, and touching. ✔

Shows how a community comes together to accept an individual. ✔

Example of positive and encouraging parents when not all kids are nice. ✔

Told through six different points of view and teaches compassion. ✔

Best for ages 8-12.   

 
 
 

Kids Review:

► “This book is amazing! Auggie’s story is so motivating. His challenges with his looks make the book so much more emotional, plus the bullying he has to face when he attends school. His story and other stories are so inspiring.” —Maddie N.

 

 

Coming-of-age story for middle school students. ✔

Engaging comic book style. ✔

Bursting with humor, excitement, and suspense that keep you turning the pages. ✔

Helps anyone who looks a little bit different find a sense of belonging. ✔

Encourages kids to show empathy towards others. ✔

Best for ages 8-12.   

 

Kids Review:

► “I loved this book! I really loved how it made me feel like I was the main character, Raina, and I felt all of it! And the author also makes it really funny!” —Darilyn

Other Books in This Series:

 

An easygoing gorilla Ivan befriends a newcomer to life in captivity, Stella the baby elephant. ✔

Beautifully written and told from the perspective of Ivan. ✔

A Newbery Medal winner. ✔

Explores ideas of friendship, art, and hope interwoven with entertaining humor. ✔

Heartfelt and touching. ✔

Best for ages 8-12. 

 

Kids Review:

► “This book is very sweet and can be read by readers of all ages, boys and girls, and for those who enjoy emotional stories. It is both warm and exciting, you always want to know what happens next! If you like books based on true stories, friendship, and being brave you would love this book!” —Mia M. 

Other Books in This Series:

 

Learn more about how Biblionasium supports independent reading and school libraries during these challenging times.

 
 
 

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