If you liked The Last Cuentista
The enchanting The Last Cuentista by Donna Barba Higuera won the 2022 Newbery Medal. This middle-grade, science-fiction book emphasizing the importance of storytelling and culture has no doubt made its way into many young readers’ hands. If they loved it, as I have no doubt they will, here are some other books that they might enjoy.
Across the Universe by Beth Revis (2011)
The Last Cuentista centers on a journey into space away from a doomed earth. The YA book Across the Universe has a similar premise. Amy and her family are frozen on a spaceship and due to awake 300 years in the future. When she awakens early, she discovers that all is not as promised on the ship and must determine what the truth is. Great suspense and world building.
See You in the Cosmos by Jack Cheng (2017)
Alex, the hero of this middle grade book, is obsessed with space and with getting his iPod launches into the cosmos. Though I’ll admit, as a parent, the huge independence that Alex experiences in the book made me a little nervous, I know kids will love this story about a kid’s determination and journey.
Pi in the Sky by Wendy Mass (2013)
A wonderful and hopeful sci-fi book for middle-grade readers. Our protagonist Joss is the seventh son of the Supreme Overlord of the Universe. All of the family have their roles to play in running the world, but Joss starts to question his place when he accidentally meets a girl from Earth. Together they must save the universe!
Sophie Quire and the Last Storyguard by Jonathan Auxier (2016)
This fantastic middle-grade fantasy is the companion novel to Peter Nimble and His Fantastic Eyes (also great) but can be read on its own. Sophie’s adventure has so much to do with books and stories and what they mean to us. Sure to be a winner for those who enjoyed Petra’s stories in The Last Cuentista.
The Inquisitor’s Tale: Or, the Three Magical Children and Their Holy Dog by Adam Gidwitz (2016)
Another great book for those who like storytellers, complete with fart and stinky cheese jokes. The chapters are told by different characters, so you get to hear the tale from various perspectives, giving lots to discuss and wonder about in this magical and meaningful book.