The 'Janitors' series by Tyler Whitesides is one of those hidden gems in middle-grade fantasy that hooked me from the first page. It's got this quirky blend of humor, adventure, and a surprisingly intricate magic system involving—
wait for it—janitors fighting invisible monsters called Toxites. There are five books in total: 'Janitors', 'Secrets of New Forest Academy', 'Curse of the Broomstaff', 'Strike of the Sweepers', and 'Heroes of the Dustbin'. Each one builds on the last, with the stakes getting higher and the world expanding in really creative ways. I love how Whitesides makes something as mundane as cleaning supplies feel epic—who knew mops could be weapons?
What’s cool about this series is how it balances lighthearted moments with deeper themes about friendship and responsibility. The fifth book, 'Heroes of the Dustbin', wraps things up in a satisfying way, though I’d secretly love more. If you’re into books like 'Percy Jackson' but want something a little offbeat, this is a great pick. Plus, the audiobooks are narrated brilliantly—perfect for road trips!