Tween/ Middle Grades

Middle (or Middle Grade) are chapter books with more complex plots, character development, and themes than early children’s books, but generally lighter in tone and content than YA. Common genres include fantasy, adventure, mystery, and realistic fiction.

“Tween” is more of a cultural/marketing term than a formal publishing category, often used to describe the age group transitioning from early childhood to adolescence. Books for this group bridge the gap between simpler children’s books and more complex YA.

Typically ages 8-12, Tween often overlaps with Middle Grade