Human children and their relationships with animals are a powerful draw for many middle-grade readers.

Those who have pets or long for them often find a deep connection in books like Rain Reign by Martin and Elephant Secret by Walters (despite elephants not being typical pets).

The characters in these stories often find their bonds to animals help them get their needs met. For example, in Song for a Whale by Kelly, Iris, the only deaf girl in her school, finds solace and connection in her bond with a Blue 55.

Even without human interaction, A Wolf Called Wander by Parry still resonates with readers as they follow Swift’s journey of survival.