10 Reviews: Best Mystery Novels for Middle Schoolers (Apr 2024)

Spirit Hunters is a chilling ghost story with a diverse group of protagonists and antagonists. The Harper family has settled into their new abode since Harper’s transfer. It has a reputation for being haunted, but she does not believe the rumors about it. On the other hand, when her younger brother begins behaving oddly, she experiences a peculiar case of déjà vu. Therefore, join Harper on a spine-tingling adventure as she fits together puzzle pieces from the past.

"This book kept me on my toes, what a thriller! I felt so in touch with the Harper and only a really great author could create such a connection and compelling story all in one."

by Justine Bae

The best-selling Spy School series comes to a satisfying conclusion with the novel Spy School at Sea. Ben Ripley has embarked on the largest cruise ship in the world to discover the plans his adversary Murray has hatched. However, the joyful excursion with family and friends quickly leads to a path fraught with peril and unexpected twists and turns. Finally, Ben will need to use all of his skills to succeed.

"This series is great and I highly recommend it to anyone who is 8-15 years old. Over all love this book ??"

by Romy Stone Harad

The novel When You Reach Me was selected as a winner of the Newbery Honor. Miranda, in the sixth grade, has been receiving strange notes. There is a prediction made by one of them that one of them will pass away. To set the record straight, Miranda needs to compose a letter. The fascinating book transports readers back and forth through time. In the end, the riddle is solved, and everything fits together as it should have all along.

"It's about middle schoolers' life. The kids are so attracted to the story. Worthy of a buy."

by Grace

The ghost mystery book known as Scritch Scratch will give you the creeps. Claire, who is just 12 years old, aspires to be a scientist. Consequently, she chooses to disregard the bizarre exchange that had a place with a stranger on the bus. However, odd occurrences continue to take place. Now, it is up to Claire to find out. The narrative beautifully narrates the middle schooler’s social life, including their friends and feelings.

"Great for fall spooky season. I really enjoyed the family and friend groups included. More than just a ghost mystery. There is friendship drama and history enriching the plot"

by Christine

Those interested in unexplained mysteries will enjoy A Properly Unhaunted Place. Rosa and her mother have relocated to a new village rumored to be haunted. She meets Jasper, a regular boy unaware of the town’s reputation for its mysterious occurrences. However, when confronted by a bunch of angry spirits, Rosa must decide whether or not she can utilize her ability to defeat the menace. Therefore, this is a read that 11- to 13-year-olds will find both humorous and eerie.

"The premise of being in the one place with no ghosts in a ghost-filled world is great, and it is excellent to see librarians get their due as powerful magicians!"

by Lisa Yelon

The best-selling Greyson Gray book series begins with “Camp Legend,” the first book in the series. Gray, who is twelve years old, does everything he can to divert his attention away from the unexplained absence of his father, including participating in sports and hanging out with friends. However, he then discovers a scheme to commit terrorism. He faced a decision regarding how to proceed and prevent the loss of tens of thousands of lives. It provides realistic suspense that fans of mysteries will enjoy.

"I loved the characters and funny dialogue in this book! This book is an exciting book especially for boys involving camp and spies. Parents would enjoy reading this with their children."

by englishlynn

The Secret of the Emperor’s Riddle Mia Chen is currently in China with her family, and their vacation quickly turns into an exciting experience. However, Mia knows she must find a solution to the mystery when her Aunt Lin goes missing. Is it possible for her and her brother Jake to decipher the clues on the ancient map and locate the treasure? This fast-paced mystery chapter book is perfect for readers who have trouble staying engaged.

"An amazing book for learning about Chinas history. Riddles, adventure, mystery, sibling relationship, etc. a must read! My son loved it!!"

by Brandon Steinman

It is based on the life of Zora Neal Hurston, the author of several African-American folklore stories, particularly Zora and Me. Eatonville, Florida, was the first all-black township incorporated in the United States. Zora, a young girl with a crazy imagination, is the protagonist of this story. Her friends don’t believe her when she says her neighbor is part man, half gator. A slew of tragic events occurs in town, and Zora seizes the opportunity to demonstrate her point. Therefore, it is a wonderful book.

"Historic reflections on community, love and place. Also a discussion on true friendship."

by Amazon Customer

Secrets, riddles, and intrigue abound in this Victorian-era mystery set in London in the 1850s. All-female investigators train former thief Mary Quinn. As a result, she has been assigned to a merchant’s home to find out what happened to several missing cargo ships. The only way to find the perpetrator of the crime is for Mary to trust her gut and negotiate the dark alleyways. But unfortunately, her history also comes back to haunt her.

"I adore this entire series! They pacing is excellent, just the right amount of romance for a mystery and interesting subplots. ..."

by K

The House in Poplar Wood is a scary mystery book for middle school students focusing on hidden objects and the supernatural. Vickery and Felix, twins, want their family to be released from its obligation to serve Memory and Death. As a result, they agree to assist Gretchen in solving a murder case. This fantastical tale is not only skillfully written but also full of enchantment, intrigue, and thrill.

"Exciting, engaging, hard-to-put-down. It has mystery, magic, excitement and a good plot [according to eleven-year-old reader]."

by Barb