Most Anticipated Middle Grade Books from Simon & Schuster (2025–2026)
Middle grade books are doing something really special right now.
They’re not just entertaining—they’re asking big questions, building empathy, and trusting young readers with complex ideas. As an author, reviewer, educator, and parent, I’m always paying close attention to which books feel intentional—the ones that respect kids’ intelligence while still delivering fun, suspense, and heart.
On the latest episode of The Brave Bookshelf Podcast, I shared some of my most anticipated middle grade titles from Simon & Schuster and its imprints, including Aladdin and Salaam Reads. These are books I’m excited about not just as a reader, but as someone who thinks about classrooms, libraries, and reluctant readers.
Let’s take a closer look.
📘 The Aftermyth
by Tracy Wolff
Imprint: Aladdin
Release Date: February 3, 2026
I love a good academy setting—and The Aftermyth absolutely delivers on that front.
This story unfolds within a richly imagined academic world made up of distinct halls, each with its own identity, strengths, and challenges. Athena Hall, in particular, completely won me over. I could easily imagine wanting to live there right alongside Penelope.
What stood out most is how clearly the author defines each hall. These divisions aren’t just decorative—they shape character growth, rivalry, and self-discovery. The setting feels purposeful and layered, which is exactly what makes middle grade fantasy so powerful.
This is a fantastic pick for readers who love:
Greek mythology
Academy-style stories
Percy Jackson–type vibes with something fresh and mysterious
An added bonus for educators and librarians: Simon & Schuster provides a reading group guide, making this an excellent choice for classrooms, book clubs, or school-wide reads. Find this guide under “Reading Group Guide” and buy the book by clicking here.
🕵️ Hurricane Heist
by James Ponti
Imprint: Aladdin
Release Date: September 2, 2025
Series: The Sherlock Society
I haven’t read Hurricane Heist yet—but I have read the first book in The Sherlock Society, and that’s more than enough reason for anticipation.
James Ponti consistently delivers smart, fast-paced mysteries that never talk down to middle grade readers. The first book balanced intrigue, teamwork, and clever twists in a way that made it genuinely fun to read—and satisfying to solve alongside the characters.
If Hurricane Heist follows in those footsteps (and all signs point to yes), readers can expect:
Clever mysteries
High-stakes problem solving
Plenty of thrills without unnecessary darkness
This series is a strong gateway for readers who love puzzles, teamwork, and page-turning suspense.
Psst: Book 3, “Art Attack,” will be released later this year.
Find the book and buy it here.
🌍 Europa
by James Ponti
Imprint: Aladdin
Release Date: February 10, 2026
Series: City Spies
At this point, City Spies is a proven middle grade powerhouse.
These books are pure fun—edge-of-your-seat suspense paired with unforgettable characters and strong found-family dynamics. Each installment raises the stakes while still leaving room for heart and humor.
I haven’t read Europa yet, but James Ponti has earned my trust. Every book in this series has delivered smart plotting, escalating tension, and characters kids genuinely care about.
Perfect for readers who love:
Spy thrillers
Fast pacing
Team dynamics and global adventures
This is the kind of series that turns casual readers into enthusiastic ones.
Find the book and buy it here.
Read my other reviews regarding The City Spies series here.
💃 Maysoon Zayid, the Girl Who Can Can
by Seema Yasmin
Imprint: Salaam Reads / Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers
Release Date: February 10, 2026
Series: Muslim Mavericks
This book deserves a spotlight all its own.
Maysoon Zayid, the Girl Who Can Can is a powerful, joyful biography about perseverance, humor, and being more than your disability. It’s an underdog story that doesn’t shy away from challenges—but also refuses to define success in narrow terms.
I loved this book.
It introduces young readers to a real-life comedian who is genuinely funny, deeply talented, and unapologetically herself. Representation here matters—not just in terms of disability, but in showing kids that there is no single path to success or belonging.
In my opinion, this is a must-have for school libraries.
It’s the kind of book that opens doors to conversations about identity, resilience, and self-worth—without ever feeling heavy-handed.
Find the book and buy it here.
Final Thoughts
What excites me most about these upcoming middle-grade books is how much care they show for their audience.
These stories offer:
Rich fantasy worlds
Clever mysteries
High-stakes adventures
Real-life inspiration and representation
Middle grade continues to be one of the most exciting spaces in publishing—and these titles from Simon & Schuster and its imprints are a big reason why.
Whether you’re a parent, teacher, librarian, or passionate kidlit reader, these are books worth putting on your radar.
🎧 Listen to the full episode of The Brave Bookshelf Podcast for deeper discussion and recommendations.
📚 Until next time—keep reading bravely.
