Books are a brilliant way of helping kids with transitions—and the transition to middle school can be one of the toughest of all. The books in this list are brimming with the triumphs and tribulations of what can be a very challenging time for many students. From coming-of-age and friendship stories to struggles with fitting in and making friends, use these 23 titles to help students feel a little less alone and recognize the importance of being kind to others during the middle school years.