4 Authentic Middle-Grade Books for ADHD Awareness Month
October is ADHD Awareness Month! These four middle grade novels feature relatable protagonists with ADHD who navigate school, friendships, and family.
Focused by Alyson Gerber
When it comes to school, Clea just can’t seem to focus: she’s easily distracted by the people around her, says every thought that pops into her head, and has trouble sitting down to do her homework. When Clea’s trouble with concentration starts to impact her grades and even affects her friendships, she learns that she has ADHD. As Clea comes to terms with what this means, she finds strength and acceptance with support from her family. (Ages 9-12)
Hannah Edwards Secrets of Riverway by Ashley Hards
As perfectionist Hannah Edwards grapples with her ADHD and her father’s disappearance, she must embark on a journey with her friends, a ghost, and a whole lot of frogs to uncover the truth. Author Ashley Hards seamlessly blends traditional prose with inventive journal entries, offering an authentic neurodiverse character for tween girls. Winner of the 2025 Teacher Favorites Award: 6th–8th Grades. (Ages 9-12)
Honestly Elliott by Gillian McDunn
Elliott feels invisible, especially since his best friend moved away, and his parents have a hard time understanding his experience with ADHD. The only time Elliott feels like his best self is when he’s cooking. When he’s paired up with Maribel, the popular girl at school, for a project, Elliott worries that she’ll jbe another person who won’t understand him. He quickly learns that friends can be found in unlikely places and that they can help you see a different side of things with a slice of pie. Winner of the Schneider Family Book Award. (Ages 8-11)
Vanya and The Wild Hunt by Sangu Mandanna
Vanya, a middle schooler with ADHD who can talk to books, has never felt like she truly belongs, especially as a British Indian in a mostly white town. When her family is attacked by a magical monster, Vanya is taken to Auramere, a magical school for witches, where she uncovers family secrets and a talent for riding unusual creatures. Once there, Vanya finally feels like she belongs—but the monsters and their powerful leader put her new home and friends at risk . . . (Ages 8-12)