Maybe art has been on my mind a lot with the publication of my own art-themed novel, Beneath the Swirling Sky. I’d love to see more stories that pique kids’ interest in art and creativity. Here’s a round up to some of my favorite art-themed novels for middle grade readers.

Classic

The Mixed-Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler by E.L. Konigsburg

This classic children’s book is about two children who run away and live in the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Having visited The Met recently (and gotten lost in it), I find this idea enchanting. The children finally come clean in order to help solve an art-related mystery.

Mystery/Thriller

The Lost Art Mysteries Series by Deron R. Hicks

I loved both books in this series: The Rembrandt Conspiracy and The Van Gogh Deception. The story telling was fast paced and engaging. At the same time, Hicks really educates his reader about art, forgery, and more. Highly recommend. Read my full review HERE.

Chasing Vermeer by Blue Balliett

When confronted with seemingly random clues and occurrences, Calder and his friend Petra work to piece together clues and solve the mystery behind a stolen painting. The first in a series.

Framed! by James Ponti

Fantastically fun story about a kid and his friend who help the FBI solve an art-related crime in Washington D.C. This one is a series as well (though I’ve only read book one).

Me, Frida, and the Secret of the Peacock Ring by Angela Cervantes

Mexico, mystery, family, and who to trust play roles in this fun story about a missing ring. Plus, kids will learn all about Frida Khalo and her art.

Fantasy

Henry and the Chalk Dragon by Jennifer Trafton

Henry doesn’t want to share his art, but when his chalk creation comes alive and invades his school, it seems he has no choice but to accept himself as an artist. Read my full review HERE.

Pencilvania by Stephanie Watson

Grieving over her mom’s death, Zora scribbles over her old drawings. But when those drawings come to life and pull Zora and her sister into the world of Pencilvania, Zora learns that scribble is now a villain set on destroying everything. Zora must learn that her art and her life still have value, even without her mom as a part of it.

Beneath the Swirling Sky by Carolyn Leiloglou

Vincent has given up on art until he learns that his family are the last of The Restorationists, a secret society with the ability to travel through paintings and the duty to protect them. When his little sister disappears into The Starry Night, Vincent must team up with his know-it-all cousin Georgia to rescue her. Beneath the Swirling Sky is book one in The Restorationists series.

Are you on Goodreads? I’ve created a list of art-related middle grade books (some of which I haven’t read yet) that you can vote on or even add more books to. Find the list HERE.