Getting your kids to swap their controllers for a good book can be a real challenge, especially when the latest video game is calling their name. But what if you could turn their favorite gaming adventures into reading material? Enter video game books for middle schoolers—a brilliant way to merge the excitement of gaming with the benefits of reading. These books capture the action, characters, and stories that your kids already love, making reading not just a chore, but a new way to experience their favorite games. Whether your child is a reluctant reader or just needs a nudge toward more books, these video game books for middle schoolers might just be the power-up they need!

Wild Rescuers

Age: 8-12

Summary: From StacyPlays, creator of the mega-popular YouTube series Dogcraft, comes a thrilling illustrated novel about a girl raised by a pack of wolves and her quest to protect their shared forest home. The first in a new Minecraft-inspired fantasy adventure series!

Stacy was raised by wolves. She’s never needed humans to survive and, from what she sees of humans, they’re dangerous and unpredictable. For as long as she can remember, Stacy’s pack of six powerful, playful wolves—Addison, Basil, Everest, Noah, Tucker and Wink—have been her only family.

Together, Stacy’s pack patrols the forest to keep other animals safe, relying on her wits and each wolf’s unique abilities to accomplish risky rescue missions. But as the forest changes and new dangers begin lurking, are Stacy and the wolves prepared for the perils that await them?

DanTDM: Trayaurus and the Enchanted Crystal

Age: 8-12

Summary: From the mind of one of the most popular YouTubers of all time, DanTDM, comes a graphic novel adventure that reimagines the Minecraft-style worlds and characters he’s created like you’ve never seen them before.

After a day of experiments, Trayaurus and DanTDM are about to call it a night when a strange-looking crystal plummets to earth, breaking into five pieces that scatter far and wide. DanTDM and Trayaurus recover one of the shards and quickly realize they are in possession of an object more powerful than anything they’ve ever known.

Word reaches DanTDM and Trayaurus that other pieces of crystal have been recovered—a group of pigs have harnessed the crystals’ power to enable them to talk. But they’re not alone—Dan and Trayaurus’s archenemy, Denton, has also found a shard and manipulated its power for evil. He has created a cloning machine and is producing a terrifying marauding army intent on hunting down the remaining crystals in his effort to become all-powerful.

It’s down to DanTDM and Trayaurus to stop him. Will they prevail, or will the forces of evil be too great for them to overcome?

Homerooms and Hall Passes

Age: 8-12

Summary: In the mystical realm of Bríandalör, every day the brave and the bold delve into hidden temples or forgotten dungeons, battling vile monsters and evil wizards to loot their treasure hoards for sweet, sweet magic items.

But in their free time, our heroes—Thromdurr the mighty barbarian, Devis the shifty thief, Vela the noble paladin, Sorrowshade the Gloom Elf assassin, and Albiorix the (good!) wizard—need to relax and unwind.

That’s why they meet up once a week to play Homerooms & Hall Passes: a role-playing game where they assume the characters of average American eighth graders.

But when the five young adventurers are magically transported into their H&H game by an ancient curse, they must band together to survive their toughest challenge yet: middle school.

Who knew that battling ogres would be easier than passing algebra or navigating the cafeteria social scene? They must use what they’ve learned from playing Homerooms & Hall Passes to figure out how to save their game world (which might actually be real…).

FGTeeV Presents: Into the Game!

Age: 8-12

Summary: The FGTeeV family gamers have played hundreds of games together. Which is why Moomy decides to make a new game called My Pet Fish. Just one problem: the game is SUPER boring. And one other problem: Moomy and Duddy accidentally got sucked into it—and now they’re trapped!

It’s up to the kids, Lexi, Mike, Chase, and Shawn, to jump into the gaming console and rescue their parents. But first, they have to battle their way through their favorite games until they find the one their parents are stuck in. Can the kids take on a vicious pack of vampire prairie dogs, flying doody diapers, some spooky ghouls, and one incredibly dull fish before Moomy and Duddy are bored to death

Conclusion

Video game books for middle schoolers are a fantastic way to ignite a love for reading in your young gamers. By bringing the excitement of their favorite digital adventures into the world of books, you’re helping them discover that reading can be just as thrilling as any game. So, the next time you’re looking to encourage some screen-free time, consider a book that lets your child relive their favorite games—this time, in print. With these fun and engaging reads, you might just find that getting your kids to read is easier than completing the final level of their favorite game!

Just like GameTruck parties, video game books are the cool new thing! Readers are bound to find a book for gamers like themselves, and don’t be afraid to pick one of these up for yourself too! Happy reading! 

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Getting kids to put down their controllers and pick up a book can feel like an impossible quest. But what if the books they’re reading are inspired by their favorite video games? Suddenly, reading becomes an exciting adventure filled with the characters and worlds they already love. From action-packed stories to immersive worlds, video game books for kids are the perfect way to bridge the gap between gaming and reading. Whether you’re looking to encourage a reluctant reader or simply want to add more books to your child’s library, these video game-inspired reads are sure to level up their love for reading.

Gnat vs. Spyder

Age: Grades 4-5

Summary: Thirteen-year-old Natalie lives a double life.

By day, she’s an average eighth grader at Golden Trails Middle. At night, she’s Gnat112, a streamer for her favorite video game, Alienlord. But when the new girl moves in next door, will Natalie’s double life be revealed?

Natalie has a secret. She’s a gamer.

By day, Natalie is an average eighth grade student. At night, she’s Gnat112! Living a double life is hard . . . and keeping a secret from your friends is even harder. In this illustrated middle grade book (the first of an all-new series, Gamer Girls), Natalie and her three BFFs learn to navigate the gamer world together, one girl at a time.

This series is a great read for gamers and gamer enthusiasts of all kinds. Plus, there’s the occasional middle school drama . . . if only Natalie could battle math teachers like video game aliens!

Diary of a Roblox Pro #1: Monster Escape

Age: Grades 2-5

Summary: Ari and his friends can’t resist a challenge. Rumor has it there’s some kind of monster living in the local abandoned warehouse who devours anyone who steps foot inside. Ari doesn’t believe the gossip and accepts a dare to enter the building. But as soon as they set foot in the warehouse, all of the doors lock behind them and they come face-to-face with the beast itself! Can Ari and his friends escape the warehouse? Or will the monster win this game? Read and find out in the first book in the Diary of a Roblox Pro series!

No Humans Allowed! (Dungeons & Dragons: Dungeon Academy #1)

Age: Grades 4-5

Summary: Welcome to Dungeon Academy, where monsters and creatures train for the dark world that awaits just beyond the dungeon walls! But Zellidora “Zelli” Stormclash is a bit–different. She’s the one thing monsters and creatures of the Forgotten Realms fear the most: Zelli is a human!Knowing she’ll never be accepted, Zelli’s parents disguise her as a minotaur in hopes she’ll blend with the academy’s monstrous surroundings. Zelli does her work, keeps to herself, and becomes “invisible” to everyone. While in History of Horrible Humans class, Zelli learns of the great human adventurer, Allidora Steelstrike, who oddly resembles her. Could Zelli also be a Steelstrike?

Seeking answers to her true lineage, Zelli embarks on a dangerous adventure.But she won’t be alone. A vegan owlbear, a cowardly kobold, and a shapeshifting mimic will join Zelli on her quest for truth in a world that holds no place for them. And who knows? Perhaps these monstrous misfits may discover some truths of their own . . .Get ready for humor, heart, magic, and adventure as middle graders and beyond learn to embrace who they are, accept others’ differences, and discover that making mistakes is OK–as long as you learn from them.

Table Titans Club

Age: Grades 4-5

Summary: A fantasy-obsessed nerd with the legendary confidence–and temper–of a Valkyrie, Val promises her mom that things will be different at her new school. “No more fighting!” As if by fate, she meets the Table Titans right away–Alan, Andrew, and Darius, who run the school’s tabletop gaming club. Finally, Val has found her own adventuring party! And even better . . . a place where she belongs. So when the future of the club is threatened, Val makes it her personal quest to save the Table Titans. She’ll have to face the fire-breathing wrestling coach and popular girl Kate, who seems out for revenge. Revenge for what? Val has no clue.

As the quest grows more and more complicated, Val wishes she was like her peaceful druid Lulani from the Table Titans’ campaign, whose calm voice always prevails. If she loses her cool in real life, Val might lose more than the Table Titans club. She’ll have to roll a natural 20 in charisma to keep her new friends together. Set in the same universe as the Eisner Award-winning webcomic PvP, Scott Kurtz’s artwork blends zany, fantastical visuals with slice-of-life humor.

For fans of fantasy and coming of age stories alike, Table Titans finds humor, heart, and adventure in a tale of friendship and finding your people.

Piggy: The Cure

Age: Grades 3-7

Summary: There is a mystery to be solved, a cure to be found, and a horde of Infected to escape!

Welcome to the bone chilling, pulse-pounding world of PIGGY, the survival-horror game that will keep you up at night. With the Infected hot on their heels and growing in number, a small band of survivors must come together and try to stop their island from being overrun. But is there really a cure for whatever is turning people into mindless monsters? Or are they too late to save anyone at all?

Pokémon Super Special Chapter Book Box Set

Age: Grades 2-5

Summary: These special editions are each two books in one! Join Ash, Pikachu, and friends on action-packed adventures across all eight known regions of the Pokémon world. The beloved Trainer and his team take on foes new and old with some amazing Pokémon by their sides. Each book includes a pullout, double-sided locker poster — four posters in all!

Zombie Season

Age: Grades 3-7

Summary: You know the protocol. You’ve completed countless drills. Yet nothing can truly prepare you for what’s coming. No one is ever ready for zombie season . . .

Joule refuses to evacuate with her mom. She can’t leave town while her dad’s still missing. He’s out there, somewhere, and Joule is going to find him. But what if he’s not just lost? What if he’s become what she most fears?

Regina is proud of her scientist parents, especially now that they’re working on a weapon to keep the zombies at bay. But when she discovers a dark underside to their new technology, she must decide what matters most: her family’s reputation… or saving lives.

Oliver is sick of the drills. What’s the point in pretending you can run and hide when it’s clear the zombies are growing faster and stronger than ever? But when the adults refuse to accept this scary truth, Oliver must find a way to sound the alarm: this year’s zombie season is very, very different. Something has changed, and time is running out to stop it…

Join the fight by going on your own zombie-hunting missions online!

Gamerville

Age: Grades 4-5

Summary: A video gamer’s championship aspirations are dashed when his parents send him to Camp Reset, where electronics are forbidden and you’re forced to socialize, eat healthy, and spend time outside. Gamerville is a timely and vulnerable exploration of the importance of human connection and what it means to run in a pack, brought to you by award-winning author Johnnie Christmas.

Max Lightning is howling at the moon—he’s finally qualified for Gamerville, a championship where players compete to be top dog in the multiplayer video game Lone Wolf of Calamity Bay. But his dreams of domination are doomed when his parents send him to Camp Reset. Gone are the long nights of downing energy drinks and getting copious amounts of screen time. They’ve been replaced with fresh air and group activities under the hot sun—a shock to the system for a lone wolf like Max. Can Max escape Camp Reset and level up at Gamerville, or has he finally played his last match?

Ultimate Gaming Showdown (Player vs. Player #1)

Age: Grades 4-5

Summary: In this action-packed illustrated series, four kid gamers meet at a virtual tournament and battle for the ultimate grand prize. Perfect for young fans of Ready Player One and Mr. Lemoncello’s Library.

Sixty-four teams.

One mysterious grand prize.

Four gamers determined to win it all.

Welcome to Affinity, the hottest battle royale video game in the world! Gamers can be anything they want to be in Affinity’s high-tech, magical universe–and test their skills in fierce PvP combat. So when Hurricane Games announces an epic tournament with killer prizes, four kids form a team that feels unstoppable . . . but also maybe doomed from the start?

Josh is the tank . . . when his parents let him game.

Hannah is the melee fighter . . . but she can only play at the public library.

Larkin is the healer . . . as long as her family’s not around.

Wheatley is the ranger . . . with a secret that might wreck the whole team.

As solo gamers, they’re good. Really good. But the tournament is a whole new level of competition, and it’ll take all four of them to bring it home. Can they step up their game in time for the final match?

Conclusion

Incorporating video game books into your child’s reading routine can be a game-changer. These books not only tap into their existing interests but also open up new worlds of imagination and creativity. By connecting the thrill of gaming with the joy of reading, you’re setting your child up for a lifelong love of books. So, the next time you’re searching for a new read, consider one that lets your child experience their favorite games in a whole new way—through the pages of a book!

Just like GameTruck parties, video game books are the cool new thing! Both avid and “books are boring” readers are bound to find a book for gamers like themselves, and don’t be afraid to pick one of these up for yourself too! Happy reading! 

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As the leaves start to turn and the air gets a little crisper, September offers the perfect opportunity for fun kids’ activities. From celebrating quirky holidays to spending quality time with loved ones, there’s something for everyone this month. Here are six exciting fun kids activities that will bring your family together and create unforgettable memories.

Adopt a Pet Rock for National Pet Rock Day – September 1st

Kicking off September with a bit of humor, why not celebrate National Pet Rock Day? On September 1st, gather the family and create your own pet rocks. These low-maintenance “pets” are a fun and creative way to spend time together. You can paint faces, add googly eyes, or even build little habitats for them. Plus, they never need feeding or walking, making them the perfect pets! Once your pet rocks are all set, let’s dive into another activity that’s both educational and enjoyable.

Explore a Used Bookstore for International Buy a Book Day – September 7th

Books have a magical way of bringing stories to life, and what better day to celebrate them than on International Buy a Book Day? Take a trip to your local used bookstore and let each family member pick out a book. Whether it’s a classic novel or a new adventure, the joy of finding a treasure among the shelves is unmatched. Later, you can cozy up at home and start reading together, fostering a love for books that will last a lifetime. After a day of literary exploration, why not unleash your inner artists?

Get Creative on National Coloring Day – September 14th

National Coloring Day is a great excuse to let your creativity run wild. Gather your favorite coloring supplies—crayons, markers, or colored pencils—and sit down for a coloring party. Whether you prefer coloring books or freehand drawings, this activity is a fantastic way to relax and bond as a family. If you’re feeling generous, consider donating some art supplies to local schools or libraries. It’s a simple act that can make a big difference. Speaking of giving back, the next day is perfect for honoring some of the most important people in our lives.

Celebrate Grandparents Day – September 8th

Grandparents Day on September 8th is the ideal time to show your appreciation for the grandparents in your life. Plan a day filled with activities that they love—whether it’s baking a favorite recipe, flipping through old photo albums, or simply enjoying a walk in the park. For those whose grandparents are no longer around, consider volunteering at a nursing home or participating in a community project that supports the elderly. It’s a wonderful way to spread love and kindness. As we honor our family members, let’s also take a moment to appreciate the natural world around us.

Reconnect with Nature on National Wildlife Day – September 4th

National Wildlife Day on September 4th is all about celebrating the beauty of nature. If you live near a park or nature reserve, take the family on a hike to explore the great outdoors. It’s a perfect way to teach kids about wildlife and the importance of conservation. If hiking isn’t your thing, consider donating to a wildlife conservation group or joining a community cleanup effort. Every little bit helps in preserving our planet for future generations. After all that outdoor adventure, it’s time to head back inside for some high-tech fun.

Level Up Your Fun on National Video Game Day – September 12th

Finally, don’t forget to mark September 12th on your calendar for National Video Game Day! Whether your family enjoys classic arcade games or the latest VR experiences, there’s a video game for everyone. You can even take it a step further by hosting a GameTruck party. Imagine a climate-controlled gaming theater pulling up to your driveway, loaded with all the latest games. It’s the ultimate video game party, and best of all, the Game Coach takes care of everything, so you can sit back and enjoy the fun.

Conclusion:

September is packed with opportunities for family fun. From crafting pet rocks and exploring bookstores to celebrating with grandparents and getting lost in the world of video games, there’s something for everyone. So, gather your loved ones, pick your favorite fun kids activities, and make this September one to remember!