10 Reviews: Best Mythology Books for Middle Schoolers (Apr 2024)

Roshani Chokshi is recognized for her out-of-this-world tales. Aru Shah and the End of Time is one of her many captivating books. Aru Shah has a reputation for exaggerating the truth. When Aru’s classmates come to visit and discover that she has been lying to them, she knows she has to get out of this situation. As a result, she activates the Lamp of Bharata, which frees the Sleeper, a demon with a mission to awaken the God of Destruction. 

"Such a good book, would definitely recommend! If you are into a fantasy about religion, love, and life then this is for you!"

by Michelle Sunshine

This fantasy novel for middle schoolers was motivated by the mythology of Hispanic cultures from the Iberian Peninsula as well as Central and South America. And Charlie Hernández, when it came to the tales that his grandmother told him, didn’t buy into the fact that they were real. However, in a short amount of time, he will be engulfed in the stories and marvels of the myths that he has heard so much about.

"The other-worldly characters and stories were mostly new to me and were fantastic. Good characters, all. I highly recommend this book for young and old readers, alike."

by R. A. Wolinsky

For those interested in learning more about the folktales and creatures included in this book, Erin Entrada Kelly has included a wealth of material on her website. In Lalani of the Distant Sea, she claims that “Filipino folklore was the main driver and inspiration for the novel,” and what you’ll find is an outstanding tale of an ordinary youngster who embarks on a voyage in search of life’s good luck. Take a chance on it; it won’t let you down.

"Erin Entrada Kelly writes beautiful stories. This is no exception. That it is also an amazing introduction to Filipino culture and folklore is a gift to all."

by Rich B.

When you read The Serpent’s Secret, you will fall head over heels in love with the tale of Kiranmala and her new life. Imagine you’re 12 years old, and all of a sudden, your parents vanish. Then, a rakkhosh demon that is salivating and hungry for human flesh crashes through your kitchen. After some time, you begin to believe that the things your parents tell aren’t far off from the truth. You are, in fact, both a true princess and a powerful warrior against evil.

"Exciting, fun story with fantastic protagonist and deep riffs on mythology. A great series!"

by Ilyse Morgenstein Fuerst

Who likes the challenge of taking on a larger adversary in a quest? These feelings can be found in The Dragon Warrior if they resonate with you. It’s no secret that Faryn Liu believes she’s the legendary Heaven Breaker, a fierce warrior. The only catch is that she has until the Lunar New Year to prove her mettle and locate the Island of the Immortals. There are sacrifices to be made on this trip, but she is eager to show everyone that she is a true warrior!!

"I got this book to read to my students and they love it so far! They call it the “best book ever”! So happy with this purchase!"

by Christina Haggerty

The Jumbies are from the Caribbean legend that is so terrifying that you won’t be able to sleep at night. When Corinne La Mer runs into a stunning stranger at the market one day, her life takes a dramatic and unexpected change for the better. Severine, the stranger, possesses a peculiar quality that makes her seem odd. It would appear that Severine has successfully cast a spell on Corinne’s father, but this is merely the beginning of her scheme. Is it possible for Corinne to protect her island from the jumbies?

"Very lovely story. I really enjoyed everything about it. Would definitely recommend. Loved seeing well known Caribbean folklore in print and reliving my childhood in the pages. Thank you author."

by Hope Mitchell?

Tristan Strong is going to immediately win over your hearts, whether you worship Western African gods or Black American gods. The moment when Tristan makes a hole in a tree, namely a Bottle Tree, a chain of events begins to take place. He rips a hole between worlds, creating a chasm that leads into the MidPass, all by accident. You will have the opportunity to converse with historical figures such as Brer Rabbit, John Henry, Nyame, and a great many other fascinating people.

"This is a truly amazing book series! And I reccomend the hard copies and the audiobook to all ages. Especially those that want to learn more about culture in an entertaining way."

by Scott Hart

The Twelve is a once-in-a-lifetime trip. There’s family, action, powerful youngsters, and mythology. This fantasy tale reimagines the Chinese Zodiac. Usagi is attempting not to reveal her power, or her sister’s, because on the last occasion someone with zodiac powers appeared, the Dragonlord slaughtered them all, including her family. Dragonguard kidnaps her sister. She discovers heirs to the zodiac powers trained and ready to fight.

"My 10-year old daughter loved this book so much, she immediately flipped back to the first page and started rereading it the moment she finished. She said she "didn't want it to end." Pretty high praise from our little bookworm!"

by Gloamer

Dragon Pearl will provide you with the sci-fi experience you’ve been looking for. Additionally, there are also fox spirits, gamblers, space exploration, and malevolent ghosts. The fox spirit that inhabits Min must be kept secret in order for her safety. She subsequently discovers that Jun, her brother, has resigned from his employment to search for the Dragon Pearl, a magical artifact. The only way she can find him and restore his reputation is to flee.

"The main character has wonderful qualities that kept me interested in what would happen next. The support characters made the book more fun and interesting. The adventure was the greatest!"

by Amazon Customer

The mythology and culture of the Korean people served as inspiration for the wonderful plot that Tae Keller wove into his novel. But that’s not the whole story since Keller also interweaves in the family problems that Lily’s trying to work through and the myths and legends that her Halmoni has always told her. Keller weaves all of these elements into the narrative. This aspect of the story is responsible for the fascinating appeal that it possesses.

"This book was a delight and was a read aloud I shared with 10yo. A pure and uplifting storyline. Loved it!"

by T