Marvelous Middle Grade Monday (August 24, 2026)

Posted on August 24, 2026 by Greg Pattridge

 

••ALWAYS in the MIDDLE is where you can find my review of CHLOE VEGA AND THE AGENTS OF MAGIC by Leslie Adame.

••Natalie Aguirre at Literary Rambles has a guest post by Paige Classey and a giveaway of her MG novel-in-verse adventure story, Anna-Jane and the Endless Summer.

••Brenda @ Log Cabin Library reviews The Library of Memories (A Graphic Novel) by Barbara Perez Marquez, and illustrations by Lissy Marlin.

••Jenni Enzor is featuring The Mysterious Magic of Lighthouse Lane by Erin Stewart

••Carol Baldwin has a new guest reviewer. Liam gives us a critique of WARRIOR ON THE MOUND by Sandra W . Headan.

••Maria Antonia shares a review of Pranks and Prejudice by Matthew J. Gilbert.

••Jennifer Rummel @ YA Book Nerd reviews Art Attack: Book 3 in the Sherlock Society series.

••Kasey Giard at The Story Sanctuary reviews Little Monsters by Máire Roche.

••Rosi Hollinbeck continues her journey through the impressive Gary D. Schmidt collection of books with a review of THE SIN EATER. Rosi also shares three links of interest for her writing friends.

••Karen Yingling at Mrs. Yingling Reads has a book to share every day. Check out Karen’s MMGM review for today and all her posts from this past week including RAISE THE BAR A Graphic Novel.

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CHLOE VEGA AND THE AGENTS OF MAGIC

Posted on August 23, 2026 by Greg Pattridge

I’ve had this one on my future read list for way too long. The wait was worth it as I was rewarded with an engaging fantasy set in a boarding academy for magic.

The story centers around 12-year-old Chloe Vega. She lives with her sister and parents in East L.A. and fears that mom and dad could be detained by immigration as they are undocumented. But wait… Chloe finds out her parents are part of a magical society. The police that are hovering outside the family’s house are actually working for a very evil sorcerer who is trying to get revenge for something the parents did in the past.

Chloe discovers she too has magical powers at the same time her parents are kidnapped. She’s enrolled an elite academy, run by the very agency who forced her parents to be removed from the magical world.

Chloe is now in the center of a magical war and she feels the Agents of Magic don’t have her best interests in mind like seeing her parents alive again. With some new found friends they take to investigating what is going on with the dangerous side of the magical world and the opposing Academy leaders in order to save her family.

This latinx middle grade fantasy debut is a fun and exciting read. I couldn’t wait to find out what would happen next. This will appeal to avid readers who enjoy an action packed plot. The page count though at nearly 400 pages will be a bit much for many in the 8-12 age group.

FIVE MORE THINGS TO LIKE ABOUT: CHLOE VEGA AND THE AGENTS OF MAGIC by Leslie Adame

  1. Chloe is one of those characters you will never forget. She has her plate full with family concerns and deals with them all in a kid like but brave way. The culture of Mexican American also came to life, especially at meal time.
  2. The focus on immigration is a perfect one with what is currently a crisis in the U.S. You’ll feel the hardships these families and especially the children must go through when most are just looking for a better life.
  3. Bullies are almost a given in middle grade books and here we have two of the best with obnoxious know it all Danielle and the cocky Jason. Their character ARCs had me smiling.
  4. The person who turns out to be a spy at the academy was the last one I expected. Such a great set-up to the reveal of their true intentions.
  5. A magical gem turns out to be a vital part of the tale. It has a story all its own. It will be interesting to see where this leads Chloe in her next tale due out in October, 2026: CHLOE VEGA AND THE MISSING UNSEEN.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Leslie Adame is a first-generation Mexican American and graduate of UCLA with a degree in Political Science and a minor in Film, Television, and Digital Media. She’s always enjoyed giving back and telling stories about characters not often found in books or films. Leslie grew up in the Inland Empire, specifically Ontario, California.

When she’s not writing, you can find Leslie scanning the aisles of your local bookstore, lovingly pestering her family, and catching a flight to explore a new place. She loves watching rom-coms, Disney movies, and trashy reality TV in her spare time, especially while cuddling with her cat. (Find out more at Leslie’s author website)

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THE STARS ARE ALWAYS THERE

Posted on August 21, 2026 by Greg Pattridge

The Texas Panhandle is a rare setting in middle grade books and the perfect location for this coming of age story.

Twelve-year-old Jess had planned on spending the summer like she always does- with her friends at camp and spending time with Dad who instead has drifted off to pursue a musical career. Mom though has a different idea. She will be making the long drive with Jess and her older brother Will to Texas where they will stay with Uncle Frank at the family ranch.

Jess is expecting to be miserable, but the ranch brings out another side to her in more ways than one. She learns to horseback ride and soon discovers the ranch next to them is flourishing with water and vegetation while everywhere else the land is dried up. Jess finds the courage to do something about it with nerdy Will and find out what is going on with the neighbor hording water.

Jess is a great character and although her narration sometimes seems far above her 12 years, it never is a problem in the story she shares. Her emotions come through in each of the 28 chapters as she deals with family and friend separation. There’s even a little magical realism as Jess becomes closer to the animals.

The setting is so vividly described that if you have never visited that part of the country, it will seem like you have once the 192 pages are tucked in your memory. THE STARS ARE ALWAYS THERE is a memorable read for anyone who loves environmentally based stories. The main character will win you over.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Jaime has over 30 years of professional experience, and a lifetime of stories to tell—mostly fictionalized. She harnessed her childhood memories in writing her debut novel, The Stars Are Always There. This middle grade story of a girl’s isolation and journey of self-discovery on the arid, high plains of Texas illustrates how one voice can make a difference, even when facing overwhelming odds.

In addition to fiction, Jaime explores the struggles of our lives as we face an uncertain future. Jaime’s insights on what we need to perform and thrive as individuals and as a society come from personal and professional encounters with people in crisis. Courage in the face of adversity builds resilience. This truth sustains us. (Author Website)

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It’s almost time for another Marvelous Middle Grade Monday. Won’t you join us? It’s here I share highlights and links from other bloggers about middle grade books. Many of the posts will have reviews, interviews, and tips on writing. Take a look at PAST MMGM POSTS. Details on how to submit your post can be found in the right margin.

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Marvelous Middle Grade Monday (August 17, 2026)

Posted on August 17, 2026 by Greg Pattridge

 

••ALWAYS in the MIDDLE is where you can find my review of LITTLE MONSTERS by Máire Roche.

••Brenda @ Log Cabin Library is featuring Mexikid Dreams: A Graphic Memoir by Pedro Martín.

••Natalie Aguiree at Literary Rambles has an interview with Máire Roche and a GIVEAWAY of her MG Little Monsters, a spooky retelling of Little Women.

••Carol Baldwin has guest reviewer Kate Lundeen sharing her thoughts on THE LOST PRINCE by Bobbi Miller.

••Katy @alibrarymama has an author interview with Julie Abe on The Magic Library of Waterfall Way.

••Jennifer Rummel @ YA Book Nerd reviews Theft of the Ruby Lotus.

••Rosi Hollinbeck reviews and has a GIVEAWAY of THE SUMMER SCRAPBOOK. Rosi also shares three links of interest for her writing friends.

••Karen Yingling at Mrs. Yingling Reads has a book to share every day. Check out Karen’s MMGM review for today and all her posts from this past week including the novel SHOOK.

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LITTLE MONSTERS

Posted on August 16, 2026 by Greg Pattridge

We are heading toward that spooky time of the year and this new release will for sure put you in the mood.

Meg and her three sisters are in foster care and have a secret they never share with their foster mom: Each of them is a monster. Meg at times will sprout sharp fangs and claws grow on her feet; Jo reacts to a full moon by getting very furry; Beth has wings; and poor Amy has to be careful going near a body of water as she will be seen with a mermaid’s tail.

The setting is right outside of Salem, Massachusetts, a town known for its spookiness. The residents are concerned as chickens have gone missing and large claw marks are visible on their shed. Is it a large beast in hiding or could it be Meg who often wakes up in the forest and never remembers how she got there?

Curious new friend, Brooks, is trying to figure out what is going on and helps Meg. She must find the truth or risk changing homes once again with her sisters.

The characters are based on the ones in the classic novel, Little Women, but you can read this just fine even if you haven’t read the 1868 original. The scares in Little Monsters are never too scary, allowing the solving of the mystery to be the focus. The pacing works to perfection throughout the 30 chapters. A very imaginative plot sure to please middle grade readers.

BOOK BIRTHDAY: August, 18, 2026 PAGES: 288

FIVE MORE THINGS TO LIKE ABOUT: LITTLE MONSTERS by Máire Roche

  1. The emphasis on family and finding your true identity was welcome backdrop to a tale with a diverse cast of characters.
  2. Little Meg has even more problems than hiding her monster look, she also takes on the role of mother to her three little sisters and the results are heartwarming.
  3. Next door neighbor Brooks, is an interesting character, one that provides humor and motivation to read the original classic.
  4. The ending tied up all loose ends, but you hope the characters could return for another story. The author did her homework in creating a younger version of each Little Women character.
  5. The connection and difficulties the 4 sisters have with each other will be familiar to those with siblings. Meg takes center stage most of the way but her interactions with Jo, Beth, and Amy provide a clear look at their world.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Máire Roche is a former teacher who now writes fantasy for all ages. When she’s not writing, Máire enjoys exploring new coffee shops, hiking, and teaching martial arts. She also writes thrillers and contemporary romance as Mary E. Roach, where her recent & upcoming titles include Better Left Buried, Seven for a Secret, and We Are the Match. (website)

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OFFSIDE

Posted on August 14, 2026 by Greg Pattridge

Nicky, Fabiola, Al, Palmer, and Seba are five kids with very different goals. They play on the same co-ed soccer team but getting along with each other is a challenge.

Al, the team captain, sides with his father who wants separate teams for boys and girls. Al will do anything to make that happen. Palmer, the one with crutches due to a torn ACL, does more than just be a spectator on the sidelines. He discovers a bigger problem than what is happening on the field. Somehow, they must find a way to become a team.

The format is unique as previously used in the author’s novel, INVISIBLE. Text boxes include both a Spanish and English version, a real plus for classrooms. Illustrations throughout are colorful and perfectly match the emotional outcomes of the story. I really liked the several single page drawings showing even more detail.

This tale about soccer, teamwork and friendship is engaging throughout. Each of the families are unique with their own challenges. OFFSIDE is a great graphic novel to have on the shelves at home or in the classroom. Perfect for those who love to read about the challenges facing girls in sports where boy’s teams get all the attention.

BOOK BIRTHDAY: July 7, 2026. PAGES: 208

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Christina Diaz Gonzalez is the Edgar Award-winning and USA TODAY best-selling author of several novels including The Red Umbrella, Concealed, and the graphic novels Invisible and Offside. Her books have been named to thirty-two state award lists and have reached international acclaim with Japan’s Sakura Medal nominations and International Latino Book Awards. She currently lives with her family in Miami, Florida. (for more details visit the author’s website)

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It’s almost time for another Marvelous Middle Grade Monday. Won’t you join us? It’s here I share highlights and links from other bloggers about middle grade books. Many of the posts will have reviews, interviews, and tips on writing. Take a look at PAST MMGM POSTS. Details on how to submit your post can be found in the right margin.

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Marvelous Middle Grade Monday (August 10, 2026)

Posted on August 10, 2026 by Greg Pattridge

 

••ALWAYS in the MIDDLE is where you can find my review of THE ISLAND AT THE EDGE OF THE NIGHT by Lucy Strange.

••Susan Uhlig enjoyed another time travel novel–Adventure in the City of Stories—and learned some new things too.

••Brenda @ Log Cabin Library takes a look at Golden Boy by A. J. Symon, a perfect upper middle grade book.

••Jenni Enzor is featuring Giant by Judith McQuoid.

••Kasey Girard at The Story Sanctuary has a review of Listen to the Girls by Chrystal D. Giles:

••Jennifer Rummel @ YA Book Nerd has been reading a lot of survival stories so she made a MIDDLE GRADE SURVIVAL BOOKLIST.

••Rosi Hollinbeck reviews A DAY AT THE BEACH by Gary D. Schmidt and Ron Koertge. Rosi also shares three links of interest for her writing friends.

••Karen Yingling at Mrs. Yingling Reads has a book to share every day. Check out Karen’s MMGM review for today and all her posts from this past week including the novel THE DOLL HOUSE.

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THE ISLAND AT THE EDGE OF THE NIGHT

Posted on August 9, 2026 by Greg Pattridge

A page turning mystery that I couldn’t step away from for long. Twelve-year-old Faye Fitzgerald narrates the story set in 1932 on a distant Scottish Island.

Her life has been happy living with her botonist father, but then she is sent off to Auk Island School. It’s a terrible place, more like the worst prison than the welcoming environment a school should provide.

There are just a few other children in attendance. Each one seems to have done something horrible to be sent here. All that Faye remembers is a dark night where her aunt was injured by an axe, supposedly used as a weapon by little Faye.

She despises being locked up and is closely supervised by Nurse Violet and husband Dr. Lighter, the two running this awful place. Faye pretends to take the pill they give her each day, which turns out to be the right decision. She soon meets a young boy who has been in hiding. He’s a prince that everyone thinks is dead. They work together to try and get everyone off the island and solve the mystery of this place. Faye also discovers the truth about her family and the lies she will not accept.

The 58 chapters provide the perfect fast paced mystery readers will love. No spoilers here, but the plot wraps up every loose end in a satisfying way. THE ISLAND AT THE EDGE OF THE NIGHT is a gripping, delightful tale where nature takes the center stage. Highly recommended.

HARDBACK EDITION BIRTHDAY: June 2, 2026 PAGES: 320

FIVE MORE THINGS TO LIKE ABOUT: THE ISLAND AT THE EDGE OF THE NIGHT by Lucy Strange

  1. Faye is a marvelous main character. Her bravery and resilience to help others will have you in her corner the entire way.
  2. The supporting cast is just as strong especially new friend Boudicca. She’s a no-nonsense girl who will speak up and defy those in charge, refusing to do anything unpleasant. It does get her in locked up in a secret room which Faye and the Prince eventually find.
  3. Auk Island is the perfect place to set this story. With a giant mountain know as The Knife in the center, it too has a lot to offer in the understanding of the mystery. A great new world for your imagination.
  4. Boarding school stories always seem to be popular with middle school readers and this one should be at the top of their list.
  5. You might be one that can predict what will happen but the road to getting there is still a memorable one in this engaging mystery.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Lucy Strange worked as an actor, singer and storyteller before becoming a secondary school English teacher. She now lives and writes in the heart of the Kent countryside with her partner James, their baby boy and a tortoiseshell cat known as Moo. (Author Website)

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Corvus-A Crow’s Story

Posted on August 7, 2026 by Greg Pattridge

A crow and a butterfly become friends for life in Corvus: A Crow’s Story, a memorable and heartwarming tale,

Clarence, a wise caterpillar who eventually turns into a butterfly, narrates the story. He hopes to help Corvus, the only crow in the nest who cannot fly. All the crows are heading south for the winter but can’t take Corvus unless he learns how to use those important wings. Winter would be unforgiving if he stayed.

Clarence is an entertaining narrator with dashes of humor along with facts about animal migration, his upcoming short life, and the uniqueness of the crow population. His unlikely friendship with Corvus is so well written you believe this companionship could really happen.

Black and white illustrations also add to the story. The back pages include several more helpful sections: FUN FACTS FOR CURIOUS READERS; NATURE NOTES, and DISCUSSION QUESTIONS. The author’s background as an educator shines through on every one of these pages.

Friendship and dedication to what is right help Clarence and Corvus in a face off with a one-eyed hawk. A perfect ending to a story that would make a great read-aloud. CORVUS, A CROW’S STORY comes full circle inan emotional and endearing look at life. Strongly recommended for families and middle grade readers.

BOOK BIRTHDAY:May 16, 2026 PAGES:174

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Shallen Anne Chitwood was born and raised in the Midwest. After earning her Master of Science in Education from Southern Illinois University, she moved to Tennessee, where she spent many years teaching elementary and middle grade students. She and her husband now live on a farm. 

When she isn’t writing stories or poetry, Shallen can be found in the garden or caring for her furry and feathered friends. Her debut novel, Big Love and War Horse (for ages 14+), received the 2025 Readers’ Favorite Silver Medal for Literary Fiction as well as a Literary Titan Gold Book Award. (Author Website)

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It’s almost time for another Marvelous Middle Grade Monday. Won’t you join us? It’s here I share highlights and links from other bloggers about middle grade books. Many of the posts will have reviews, interviews, and tips on writing. Take a look at PAST MMGM POSTS. Details on how to submit your post can be found in the right margin.

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Marvelous Middle Grade Monday (August 3, 2026)

Posted on August 3, 2026 by Greg Pattridge

 

••ALWAYS in the MIDDLE is where you can find my review of GHOST IN THE NIGHT by Tiffany D. Jackson.

••Susan Uhlig was delighted with Beth Ferry’s first middle grade novel, GROWING HOME.

••Natalie Aguirre at Literary Rambles is participating in the Apple a Day Giveaway Hop, featuring lots of new middle grade choices.

••Carol Baldwin has a review of TIME TRAVELING WITH A HAMSTER by Ross Welford.

••Rebecca Douglass is reviewing The Wednesday Wars and Just Like That by Gary D. Schmidt.

••Kasey Girard at The Story Sanctuary returns this week with a review of The Shark Prince by Malie Maunakea.

••Jennifer Rummel @ YA Book Nerd reviews Wilderness Hacks: a social media show turned survival story.

••Karen Yingling at Mrs. Yingling Reads has a book to share every day. Check out Karen’s MMGM review for today and all her posts from this past week including the novel SPINDLEWOOD.

Posted in Book Lists, Middle Grade Book Reviews, MMGM Links | Tagged , , | 1 Comment