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RED FOX ROAD by Frances Greenslade
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MMGM for November 30, 2020
Posted in MMGM Links
Tagged Marvelous Middle Grade Monday, Middle Grade Book Reviews, MMGM
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Double the Danger and Zero Zucchini
I’ve always been in critique groups to get feedback on my writing, and it is beyond helpful. A few years back a 6th grade teacher asked if I would be interested in getting some younger reactions to my manuscripts from her future author’s club. Turned out to be a great experience and every kid was brutally honest.
What does this little vignette have to do with today’s review? A lot! DOUBLE the DANGER and ZERO ZUCCHINI is a fictional story about writing a children’s book and getting feedback from kids who are the intended audience. Why didn’t I think of that?
Caroline is young Alex Harmon’s aunt and is writing her first children’s story, Gerald Visits Grampa. Alex is a reluctant reader and would rather run than read. But when his aunt asks him to critique her work, he agrees especially since there is ten dollars promised. When he does get around to opening the manuscript, it doesn’t take more than a few pages to conclude the story is a boring mess. From there he skims to the climatic end where a prize winning zucchini is the worst ending yet. But Alex is hesitant to give his aunt the negative feedback she deserves.
He enlists his friends, Marta and Javier to help. They begin brainstorming and trying out live stunts to give Aunt Caroline some ideas to get rid of the boring parts, including the zucchini. She also needs to double the danger (The above title should be making more sense now). This leads to a haunted house where they encounter a true ghost writer, and a much less haunted trip to the local senior center where a lively group of retirees offer their help.
The author has created a fun look at the process of writing and rewriting. More than a few readers will lose their reluctant label by picking up Double the Danger and Zero Zucchini.
BOOK BIRTHDAY: September 22, 2020 PAGE COUNT: 304
FIVE MORE THINGS TO LIKE ABOUT
DOUBLE the DANGER and ZERO ZUCCHINI bu Betsy Uhrig
- Short chapters—117 of them and most less than two pages! Teachers who have only five minutes at the end of a period to read or reluctant readers whose parents make them read one chapter a night will be cheering.
- Alex’s irritating younger brother, Alvin, turned out to be more fun than I imagined. He’s always getting into some kind of trouble when he’s testing out one of his theories.
- Marta’s daring stunt loving ways and Javier’s camera work abilities were also a welcome part of the plot.
- Alex’s interactions with the seniors was truly charming. He respects and wants their help and gains a few elderly friends in the process.
- The reveal of who was playing the ghostly writer role is saved for the end. I didn’t see that one coming and neither did Alex, but it was the perfect choice.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Betsy Uhrig was born and raised in Greater Boston, where she lives with her family and way more books than you are picturing. She graduated from Smith College with a degree in English and has worked in publishing ever since. She writes books for children instead of doing things that aren’t as fun. Double the Danger and Zero Zucchini is her first novel. Normally she goes out of her way to avoid danger and has nothing against zucchini. Visit her online at BetsyUhrig.com or on Twitter @BetsyUhrig.
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ALMANAC 2021
The popular National Geographic KIDS Almanac is back with the 2021 edition, and you’ll find much to enjoy and learn. You’ll discover cool events scheduled, upcoming hurricane names, a sky calendar, and planned celebrations. But don’t be fooled—it’s more than just a look at 2001.
The majority of the 350 plus pages are packed with information and facts young learners will appreciate for that next homework assignment. There are even several Homework Helper pages to get you on the right track.
I read the Almanac from cover to cover, but most will want to begin with the 6-page index to find your topic. They are arranged in ten categories:
- YOUR WORLD 2021
- AWESOME EXPLORATION
- AMAZING ANIMALS
- WONDERS OF NATURE
- SPACE AND EARTH
- FUN AND GAMES
- SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
- CULTURE CONNECTION
- GOING GREEN
- HISTORY HAPPENS
- GEOGRAPHY ROCKS
You can also participate in the the 2021 Almanac Visionary Challenge—Be a Kids vs. Plastic Leader. Readers from age 6-12 can enter but hurry, the deadline is December 1, 2020 at 11:59 p.m. ET.
As one can tell from the cover there are fantastic photos throughout, helping bring meaning to the text. The best news? ALMANAC 2021 is a fantastic resource not only for next year but for many years to come. Add it to editions from previous years or begin your collection in this new decade. A fantastic resource!
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Blogging about middle grade books or authors next week? Join the celebration:
All you have to do is blog about a middle grade book on a Monday (contests, author interviews, or anything middle grade related also count). Email me the title of the book or feature and a link to your blog at gpcolo[at]gmail[dot]com
Make sure you put MMGM or Marvelous Middle Grade Monday in the subject line so it gets sorted accurately–and please don’t forget to say what book or author you’re featuring) You MUST email me your link by Sunday evening (11 PM Eastern Time) in order to be included in the list of links for the coming Monday.
Thanks for spreading the middle grade love and for being a part of this awesome tradition begun by Shannon Messenger and carried on here at ALWAYS in the MIDDLE! (CLICK HERE FOR PAST MMGM POSTS)
*Please note: these posts are not a reflection of my own opinions on the books featured. Each blogger is responsible for their own MMGM content and I do not pre-screen reviews ahead of time, nor do I control what books they choose. I simply assemble the list based on the links that are emailed to me.
MMGM for November 23, 2020
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If you would like to join in the MMGM fun and get your own spot in the parade, all you have to do is blog about a middle grade book you love on a Monday (contests, author interviews and whatnot also count–but are most definitely not required) and email me the title of the book you’re featuring and a link to your blog at gpcolo (at) gmail (dot) com
(Make sure you put MMGM or Marvelous Middle Grade Monday in the subject line so it gets sorted accurately–and please don’t forget to say what book you’re featuring)
You MUST email me your link by Sunday evening (11 PM Eastern Time) in order to be included in the list of links for the coming Monday.
Thanks for spreading the middle grade love and for being a part of this awesome tradition begun by Shannon Messenger and carried on here at ALWAYS in the MIDDLE! (CLICK HERE FOR PAST MMGM POSTS)
*Please note: these posts are not a reflection of my own opinions on the books featured. Each blogger is responsible for their own MMGM content and I do not pre-screen reviews ahead of time, nor do I control what books they choose. I simply assemble the list based on the links that are emailed to me.
Posted in MMGM Links
Tagged Marvelous Middle Grade Monday, Middle Grade Book Reviews, MMGM
2 Comments
THE BOYS IN THE BACK ROW
Twelve-Year-Old Boy: Do you know of any books about boys? I mean just the main characters. A few girls are all right, but the only books I’ve read this year the girls kind of take over the whole story. It’s getting really irritating.
Me: (with a slight grin). Here you go. I don’t need it back. After you’re done reading pass it on to someone else who might be looking for the same thing. Enjoy.
One of my favorite genres is a good old present day contemporary. What makes this new entry into the category even better: It’s a rare look at the deep friendship between two sixth grade boys. Narrator Matt is on the right with best buddy Eric sitting next to him. Here’s the official synopsis:
Best friends Matt and Eric are hatching a plan for one big final adventure together before Eric moves away: during the marching band competition at a Giant Amusement Park, they will sneak away to a nearby comics convention and meet their idol—a famous comic creator. Without cell phones. Or transportation. Or permission. Of course, their final adventure together is more than just that—really, it’s a way for the boys to celebrate their friendship, and their honest love and support for one another.
The first three fourths of The Boys in the Back Row is about their sixth grade year—playing in the K-8 school’s band and orchestra, right where they first became friends in 4th grade. They both play bass drum in the back row. But the year has a few bumps in the road given the nature of two bullies. One makes the loud, but wrong assumption they are gay. He also pours on the racist comments to Matt who is Korean American. The other bully is more likeable but also has a mean side.
Matt and Eric survive the taunts because they have to in their honest kid like way. What’s more important is making sure the plan to meet their comic book author-hero will work. Well, what could go wrong does go wrong in the last 25% of the story.
The final scenes as the two say goodbye are ones to cherish. Heartfelt and true to the core. Was that me wiping my eyes?
BOOK BIRTHDAY: 10-06-20 PAGE COUNT: 272
FIVE MORE THINGS TO LIKE ABOUT THE BOYS IN THE BACK ROW by Mike Jung
- Matt’s first person narration is a perfect look into the mind of a sixth grade boy. He’s a bright, sensitive, normal kid with fears and a quest to be a good person.
- What is being masculine? It’s what every boy must face in our society and they need to read this book to make it easier for them.
- Matt’s parents are great supportive characters (and not divorced!). Their discussions around Matt leave him with a a lot to think about. The world can look a little different than they describe.
- The fact Matt and Eric never succumb to hiding or changing their friendship to please others shows how strong it really is. Be who you are is a theme well spoken.
- A shining and rare example of boy friendship in the MG world.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Mike Jung is the author of “Geeks, Girls, and Secret Identities” and contributed to the anthologies “Dear Teen Me,” “Break These Rules,” “59 Reasons to Write,” “Spoon Knife 3: Incursions,” and “The Hero Next Door.” He is a library professional by day, a writer by night, and a semi-competent ukulele player during all the times in between. Mike is proud to be a founding member of the #WeNeedDiverseBooks team. He lives in Oakland, California, with his wife and two young children. Find Mike at www.mikejung.com.
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I’ll be including a copy of this book in my holiday giveaway next month so stay tuned.
UNITED STATES ATLAS
Current, authoritative, and produced by the expert cartographers at National Geographic, this best-selling United States Atlas is newly updated with all the latest info and is packed with maps, stats, facts, and pictures. National Geographic’s world-renowned cartographers have paired up with education experts to create maps of all 50 states, U.S. territories, and Washington, D.C., that pinpoint the physical features, capitals, and other towns and cities. Discover the latest data along with colorful photography of each state and the people who live there. Key points reflect the latest information about land and water, people, and places. Essays cover each region of the country while eight specially themed maps on nature, population, economy, energy, climate, and more delve deeper into key issues. State birds and state flags add to the high visual interest.
MY TAKE: The Sixth edition is a much needed tool for learning on any 10-14 year old’s desk. It’s a more in depth look than the lead-up version—Beginner’s United States Atlas, which I featured last week.
The pages start off with how to use the atlas, a quick but important read to get the most out of the book. Next comes a detailed two-page spread for each of these topics:
- THE PHYSICAL UNITED STATES
- Climate
- Natural Hazards
- THE POLITICAL UNITED STATES
- Population
- People on the Move
- Energy
- The National Capital
These initial pages set the stage for the bulk of the work, a detailed account of all 50 states and a briefer look at the 14 territories under U.S. jurisdiction. Each state is given its own two-page spread filled with basic facts. There are also photos and a page of text detailing the history of the area. A map covers the right side showing the necessary detail with cities, town, and interstates.
You can use the Atlas as a reference or read it straight through like I did. Even this veteran of traveling this country learned more than ever imagined. I am now a Geo Whiz with all the information gained. Perfect as a Christmas gift or to buy for yourself, you can’t go wrong with the UNITED STATES ATLAS for kids.
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I received a copy of the book for my honest review.
Blogging about middle grade books or authors next week? Join the celebration:
All you have to do is blog about a middle grade book on a Monday (contests, author interviews, or anything middle grade related also count). Email me the title of the book or feature and a link to your blog at gpcolo[at]gmail[dot]com
Make sure you put MMGM or Marvelous Middle Grade Monday in the subject line so it gets sorted accurately–and please don’t forget to say what book or author you’re featuring) You MUST email me your link by Sunday evening (11 PM Eastern Time) in order to be included in the list of links for the coming Monday.
Thanks for spreading the middle grade love and for being a part of this awesome tradition begun by Shannon Messenger and carried on here at ALWAYS in the MIDDLE! (CLICK HERE FOR PAST MMGM POSTS)
*Please note: these posts are not a reflection of my own opinions on the books featured. Each blogger is responsible for their own MMGM content and I do not pre-screen reviews ahead of time, nor do I control what books they choose. I simply assemble the list based on the links that are emailed to me.
Posted in Middle Grade Book Reviews, non fiction
Tagged National Geographic Kids, United States Atlas
3 Comments
MMGM for November 16, 2020
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If you would like to join in the MMGM fun and get your own spot in the parade, all you have to do is blog about a middle grade book you love on a Monday (contests, author interviews and whatnot also count–but are most definitely not required) and email me the title of the book you’re featuring and a link to your blog at gpcolo (at) gmail (dot) com
(Make sure you put MMGM or Marvelous Middle Grade Monday in the subject line so it gets sorted accurately–and please don’t forget to say what book you’re featuring)
You MUST email me your link by Sunday evening (11 PM Eastern Time) in order to be included in the list of links for the coming Monday.
Thanks for spreading the middle grade love and for being a part of this awesome tradition begun by Shannon Messenger and carried on here at ALWAYS in the MIDDLE! (CLICK HERE FOR PAST MMGM POSTS)
*Please note: these posts are not a reflection of my own opinions on the books featured. Each blogger is responsible for their own MMGM content and I do not pre-screen reviews ahead of time, nor do I control what books they choose. I simply assemble the list based on the links that are emailed to me.
Posted in MMGM Links
Tagged Marvelous Middle Grade Monday, Middle Grade Book Reviews, MMGM
4 Comments
LORETTA LITTLE LOOKS BACK (REVIEW & GIVEAWAY)
Loretta Little Looks Back (Little, Brown Books for Young Readers; September 29, 2020) includes stories of Loretta, Roly, and Aggie B., members of the Little family that present the vivid story of their young lives, spanning three generations. These separate stories begin in a cotton field in 1927 and end at the presidential election of 1968, which come together to create one memorable journey. These stories are ideal to share with family, friends, and can be cherished for generations. It also includes different narrative formats, like spoken-word poems, folktales, and first person perspectives to share the social and political journey of African Americans throughout history.
MY THOUGHTS
HATRED. RACISM. WHITE PRIVILEGE. All three are on display in this heartfelt and eye-opening account of the Little family. Although the characters are a work of fiction, their stories and political events are real. Set in Mississippi, it was to me a familiar world. I spent summers there as a pre-teen in a small town visiting my seven cousins. This book brings understanding to the sights and people I met those years.
Each of the narratives are unique beginning with Loretta, sent to the fields at age six to pick cotton…
I knew this day was coming. How’d I know? The same thing had happened to Faye and Jo-Nelle. When you’re a share-cropping child, there comes a time when school just ain’t practical. When you’re a girl like me, who can pick cotton faster than most kids, your family needs you in the fields, full-time. Especially with Mama gone.
Then comes Roly, taken in by the Littles after finding the baby boy abandoned. They raised him like their own and soon Roly becomes wise with the ways of the world…
People say to don’t let a White person know how truly smart you are, else they’ll take it out badly on you.
The last third of the book features the brave and always moving forward voice of Aggie B. …
If I dare to put my backside in the chair, and my hand in the air, change happens. Not being scared to raise all five fingers means I can reach past the pain of bruises and wounds.
The story unfolds in each chapter beginning with a description of the setting and characters—much like you might read in a screenplay. After that the narrative is interspersed with poetic pauses adding to the emotion of the story. It’s a non traditional way to tell a story but also a perfect one. A read-aloud of this story and the discussion that follows is a must for today’s classroom whether virtual or in-person. The story of the Little’s journey is truly bigger than the pages.
Book Birthday: 9/29/20 Page Count: 224
FIVE MORE THINGS TO LIKE ABOUT…
LORETTA LITTLE LOOKS BACK—Three Voices Go Tell It
- The illustrations support the story and our done with a theatrical touch as the illustrator studied lighting techniques used in the theater. You’ll want to go back and look at the pictures again after reading the story.
- Loretta, Roly, and Aggie B are different in personality and ways. Together they make a beautiful stage for bringing history alive.
- Clearly shows the hurt and damage done by racism in this country.
- You’ll hope for more Aggie B’s in this world. She never gives up and sees the light in everything she does.
- The Go-Tell-Its in the story are there as vivid proof we still have a long ways to go, but we’re going to get there for sure.
About the Author/Illustrator: Andrea Davis Pinkney is the New York Times bestselling an award-winning author of numerous books for children and young adults. Her work has received multiple Coretta Scott King Book Award citations, and she is a four-time nominee for the NAACP Image Award. Ms. Pinkney is the recipient of both the Regina Medal and the Arbuthnot Honor Award for her distinguished and singular contribution to the field of children’s literature. Ms. Pinkney has been named among the “25 Most Influential People in our Children’s Lives” by Children’s Health magazine, and is listed among the “25 Most Influential Black Women in Business” by The Network Journal. She is included in the “50 Over 50 Extraordinary Women” noted by Good Housekeeping and Woman’s Day magazines. Her Husband, Brian Pinkney has illustrated numerous books for children, including two Caldecott Honor books, and he has written and illustrated several of his own books. Brian has received the Coretta Scott King Book Award for Illustration and three Coretta Scott King Book Award Honor medals.
GIVEAWAY!
I have a brand new hardback for one lucky winner (U.S Only). All you have to do is make a comment below by November 21st, or if you’re not into making comments publicly, send me an email with your interest in entering at gpcolo (at) gmail (dot) com.
Good Luck!
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BEGINNER’S UNITED STATES ATLAS
National Geographic Kids is back with a third edition of the Beginner’s United States Atlas for ages 7-10. Whether you have a virtual, hybrid, or in-person learner, the Atlas is a must have tool to enhance the classroom experience.
It begins with a necessary look at What is a Map? followed by a brief look at the physical and political United States. Next comes a tour of our nation’s capital.
These initial pages set the stage for the bulk of the resource—details on all 50 states and five of the 14 territories. Divided into six geographic areas, I found myself counting how many states I had visited (32). That little middle grade kid I once was has some catching up to do given my bold proclamation at the time that I’d visit every state.
Each state gets a full two-page spread with a map on the right and loads of factual information on the left. Included are a description of the state’s LAND & WATER, STATEHOOD, PEOPLE & PLACES, and a FUN FACT. Surrounding the facts are colored images with a picture of the state flag, flower, and bird. You’ll also find pictures of locations and people enjoying the activities common for that state.
Geography is never boring with this guide. Spread the book out on your lap or desk and get a full understanding of this beautiful country known as the U.S. Then you can start counting up the states you’ve been to or want to visit. It will be a lifelong pursuit.
Blogging about middle grade books or authors next week? Join the celebration:
All you have to do is blog about a middle grade book on a Monday (contests, author interviews, or anything middle grade related also count). Email me the title of the book or feature and a link to your blog at gpcolo[at]gmail[dot]com
Make sure you put MMGM or Marvelous Middle Grade Monday in the subject line so it gets sorted accurately–and please don’t forget to say what book or author you’re featuring) You MUST email me your link by Sunday evening (11 PM Eastern Time) in order to be included in the list of links for the coming Monday.
Thanks for spreading the middle grade love and for being a part of this awesome tradition begun by Shannon Messenger and carried on here at ALWAYS in the MIDDLE! (CLICK HERE FOR PAST MMGM POSTS)
*Please note: these posts are not a reflection of my own opinions on the books featured. Each blogger is responsible for their own MMGM content and I do not pre-screen reviews ahead of time, nor do I control what books they choose. I simply assemble the list based on the links that are emailed to me.
MMGM for November 9, 2020
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If you would like to join in the MMGM fun and get your own spot in the parade, all you have to do is blog about a middle grade book you love on a Monday (contests, author interviews and whatnot also count–but are most definitely not required) and email me the title of the book you’re featuring and a link to your blog at gpcolo (at) gmail (dot) com
(Make sure you put MMGM or Marvelous Middle Grade Monday in the subject line so it gets sorted accurately–and please don’t forget to say what book you’re featuring)
You MUST email me your link by Sunday evening (11 PM Eastern Time) in order to be included in the list of links for the coming Monday.
Thanks for spreading the middle grade love and for being a part of this awesome tradition begun by Shannon Messenger and carried on here at ALWAYS in the MIDDLE! (CLICK HERE FOR PAST MMGM POSTS)
*Please note: these posts are not a reflection of my own opinions on the books featured. Each blogger is responsible for their own MMGM content and I do not pre-screen reviews ahead of time, nor do I control what books they choose. I simply assemble the list based on the links that are emailed to me.
Posted in MMGM Links
Tagged Marvelous Middle Grade Monday, Middle Grade Book Reviews, MMGM
1 Comment
