Chocolate Fever by Robert Kimmel Smith

Chocolate Fever by Robert Kimmel Smith, 1972.
Clever, funny, reads fast, involves some fantasy, great for 3rd grade.
"...you see, this boy I once knew had to learn a very sad lesson, as all young people must do. Although life is grand, and pleasure is everywhere, we can't have everything we want every time we want it. It's a hard lesson, but it comes in time."
"yes", said Henry, "I think I understand. Maybe I have had too much of a good thing." (p. 84).

The Color of Fire by Ann Rinaldi

The Color of Fire by Ann Rinaldi, Hyperion Books, 2005.
A historical novel, set in 1741 when America is still a British colony, which is based on the true story of the Negro uprisings of 1712 and 1741 in New York City. The main character is a 14-year-old girl named Phoebe, of the Philipse family. The treatment of slaves is compared to the way young women were treated during the Salem witch trials of earlier time. There was also mistrust and mistreatment of Catholics due to the English war with Spain. "I can scarce go on with my life" [Phoebe said]. "All those tomorrows, remembering Cuffee. Will a day pass that I don't think of him? My spirit is so cast down, I keep tripping on it. And I've no desire to pick it up off the floor."
Middle school.

Each Little Bird That Sings by Deborah Wiles

Each Little Bird That Sings by Deborah Wiles, Harcourt Children's Books, 2005.
The main character is 10-year old Comfort Snowburger, whose family owns a funeral home. Two beloved older family members die within a short period of time, resulting in family funerals complete with bratty cousins named Peach. During this period of time, Comfort finds her best friend is distancing herself from Comfort. The book makes wonderful observations about dogs, life and loss. "I am glad to be alive" (p.238) sends a positive note about the world and death and children and family and friends and hope. Great Uncle Edisto says about life: "It's not how you die that makes the important impression, Comfort; it's how you live. Now go live awhile, honey, and let me get back to work." And on the subject of dogs: "Dismay [name of dog] isn't just any dog. If you would only hug him once, you'd see. He's full of good feelings-and they sink right into you when you hug him." [Spoiler alert: Touching part at the end of the book when Comfort loses something very special to her: "Missing people you love is hard." (p. 237).
Excellent story and character development, especially for upper level elementary through middle school aged girl. (Grades 5-8).