Category Archives: Reviews

THE LOSERS CLUB for Marvelous Middle Grade Monday

The newest book from Andrew Clements turns into a celebration of books. There have been MG novels about kids who hate to read (Charlie Joe Jackson’s Guide to Not Reading), but this is about Alec, a boy who loves to … Continue reading

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PATINA by Jason Reynolds

The story continues for the CYBIL’s Middle Grade Fiction winning entry from last year, GHOST. It ended with Ghost running in his first big race. In this unique series, the baton is now passed onto Patina “Patty ” Jones, another … Continue reading

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THE WORLD’S GREATEST ADVENTURE MACHINE for Marvelous Middle Grade Monday

Four kids. One ride. And an adventure that will have you flipping the pages. Told in third person, we get to know Trevor, Cameron, Devin, and Nika as they embark on this unique ride. Each of these kids has an … Continue reading

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INTO THE SHADOWLANDS—Book 2 in the Monster or Die Series

Last year I interviewed the author, Cynthia Reeg, and reviewed the first book in the series, FROM THE GRAVE. It’s all here if you need to catch up. The story continues with some very uneasy monsters, at odds with their … Continue reading

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TOTO—THE DOG-GONE AMAZING STORY OF THE WIZARD OF OZ

I still remember the first time I saw the movie huddled around the television with my sisters and Mom…a bowl of popcorn within reach. It was mesmerizing to watch the tale unfold. L. Frank Baum wrote 14 books in the … Continue reading

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SUPERSTAR for Marvelous Middle Grade Monday

Autism Spectrum Disorder is an often-misunderstood condition, especially if you’ve never known someone who lives under its umbrella. The problem lies in the middle word—Spectrum. Autism may include social, communication, and behavioral challenges, but they can range from mild to … Continue reading

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CALEB and KIT For Marvelous Middle Grade Monday

Cystic Fibrosis. The name even sounds scary. I knew the disease was progressive and causes difficulty in breathing and in other organs. According to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation Patient Registry, in the United States: More than 30,000 people are living … Continue reading

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THINGS THAT SURPRISE YOU for Marvelous Middle Grade Monday

Welcome to MARVELOUS MIDDLE GRADE MONDAY. I’m reviewing this smart new title sure to please readers. But first there are two giveaway opportunities: ******************************** Giveaway at ALWAYS in the MIDDLE: One lucky winner will receive a copy of THINGS THAT … Continue reading

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GIRLS IN SCIENCE: ARCHAELOGY

Young people need role models. Someone to look up to when confused about what they want to do in the future. Girls, especially at middle grade age, begin to get mixed messages about what is possible. That’s why the GIRLS … Continue reading

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THE WARDEN’S DAUGHTER for Marvelous Middle Grade Monday

I’m off and running into my sixth year at ALWAYS in the MIDDLE. The winners of my Anniversary Giveaway of a book and gift card are: KATHLEEN BURKINSHAW (I LOVE YOU, MICHAEL COLLINS) ROSI HOLLINBECK (MOON SHADOW) MICHAEL GETTEL-GILMARTIN (POSTED) … Continue reading

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