Fantasy & Science Fiction:
* The Hunger Games Trilogy by Suzanne Collins: Action-packed and thought-provoking, exploring themes of survival, rebellion, and sacrifice.
* The Maze Runner by James Dashner: A thrilling adventure story about a group of teenagers who must solve the mystery of a deadly maze.
* Percy Jackson & the Olympians series by Rick Riordan: A fun and engaging series introducing Greek mythology to a new generation.
* The Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. Lewis: A classic fantasy series filled with magic, adventure, and timeless themes.
* The Spiderwick Chronicles by Tony DiTerlizzi and Holly Black: A captivating tale about a family who discovers a hidden world of fairies.
Historical Fiction:
* Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry by Mildred D. Taylor: A powerful and moving story about a black family in the South during the Jim Crow era.
* Number the Stars by Lois Lowry: A poignant and heartwarming story set during the Nazi occupation of Denmark.
* The Boy in the Striped Pajamas by John Boyne: A heart-wrenching and thought-provoking story about the Holocaust, told through the eyes of a young boy.
* The Watsons Go to Birmingham - 1963 by Christopher Paul Curtis: A humorous and insightful story about a family's journey to Alabama during the Civil Rights Movement.
* The Book Thief by Markus Zusak: A unique and unforgettable story about a young girl living in Nazi Germany, narrated by Death.
Contemporary & Realistic Fiction:
* The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas: A powerful and timely story about a teenage girl who witnesses the shooting of her best friend by a police officer.
* Wonder by R.J. Palacio: A heartwarming story about a boy with facial differences who navigates the challenges of middle school.
* Eleanor & Park by Rainbow Rowell: A sweet and poignant story about two teenagers who find love and connection amidst the difficulties of adolescence.
* Stargirl by Jerry Spinelli: A charming and unconventional story about a girl who defies expectations and embraces her individuality.
* The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian by Sherman Alexie: A funny and poignant story about a Native American teenager who leaves his reservation to attend an all-white high school.
Graphic Novels & Comics:
* The Adventures of Tintin by Hergé: A classic series of graphic novels featuring the intrepid reporter Tintin.
* Maus by Art Spiegelman: A powerful and haunting graphic novel about the author's parents' experiences in the Holocaust.
* The Walking Dead by Robert Kirkman: A gripping and suspenseful graphic novel series about a world overrun by zombies.
* Saga by Brian K. Vaughan and Fiona Staples: An epic and heartbreaking space opera about a couple from warring planets.
* Persepolis by Marjane Satrapi: A coming-of-age memoir about a young girl growing up in Iran during the Islamic Revolution.
Remember to consider the individual interests and reading level of the 8th grader. This is just a starting point, and there are many other great books out there!