Reader's Advisory

I love Reader’s Advisory, I read a ton of books and get so excited to share them with the kids in my library.  I love reading something and know exactly who I’ll recommend it to, other times I get the chance to talk to someone and pull out a book that I’ve read that will be absolutely perfect.  I feel like I can do a great job with kids from babies – 1st/2nd grade.  And I can kick butt when it comes to middle grade fiction and even hold my own in the young adult department.  I love talking with kids who are passionate about books – those kids who have read just about everything you can suggest off the top of your head.  My other favorite group are the really picky readers who are so particular it can feel like a battle to find something they might be interested in.  But, the best part is when they come back, both those avid and particular readers, and exclaim how great their books were!  That is what I live for!  But when a 3rd or 4th grader comes in looking for a book… it’s the hardest group for me to advise.
I think it comes down to a wide variety in reading levels – many kids can read at a higher age level, but parents worry about the content.  I know the typical series books, that are ever so popular, but have trouble coming up with some other ideas for more picky readers.  I think this is going to be something I’ll need to focus a little more closely on in the future, maybe by checking blogs and journals for books for that age group.  And I think I’ll create an easy go-to list of some quality choices for both boys and girls to have on hand if I completely draw a blank.
What are your favorite suggestions for 3rd and 4th graders?