Category Archives: Uncategorized

HOPE WINS

Posted on May 13, 2022 by Greg Pattridge

Twenty-two authors of children’s books share a personal story about an event in their life. One that changed who they would become and gave them the strength to take on what they loved. Most happened when they were a child … Continue reading →

Posted in Middle Grade Book Reviews, non fiction, Uncategorized | Tagged , | 3 Comments

WAVE

Posted on March 27, 2022 by Greg Pattridge

A novel in prose has to have several qualities to capture my interest. Like all story telling formats, there needs to be a connection to the characters. Next, the prose has to go beyond being a collection of poetic lines—a … Continue reading →

Posted in Middle Grade Book Reviews, Uncategorized | Tagged , , , | 7 Comments

REBEL GIRLS—CLIMATE WARRIORS

Posted on March 25, 2022 by Greg Pattridge

In paperback format, this eye opening account of 25 woman explains how the world’s leading activists, authors, and scientists are helping combat climate change. I spotted a few recognizable names like Greta Thunberg and Margaret Atwood, but most were my … Continue reading →

Posted in Uncategorized | 4 Comments

SPEAK UP, SPEAK OUT

Posted on February 11, 2022 by Greg Pattridge

Shirley Chisholm was familiar only in name for me. What a pleasure it was to read the life story of this remarkable lady who blazed new paths and understandings to those less fortunate. Her bold way of speaking led to … Continue reading →

Posted in Middle Grade Book Reviews, Uncategorized | Tagged , , , | 2 Comments

An MMGM Thank You

Posted on December 27, 2021 by Greg Pattridge

I’m taking a pause in the MMGM weekly post to enjoy the holidays. It’s been the most viewed year ever and a big thanks go to all the visitors and especially the bloggers who keep the interest in MG books … Continue reading →

Posted in Uncategorized | 8 Comments

EARTH WILL SURVIVE*

Posted on December 17, 2021 by Greg Pattridge

*but we may not The title alone will grab your attention. As Middle School science teacher, Katie Coppens, says in this well researched discussion: “We’re in this together.” Yes we are. The book is intended for an upper middle grade … Continue reading →

Posted in Uncategorized | 4 Comments

NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC KIDS’ DAY

Posted on November 12, 2021 by Greg Pattridge

At least it is here at ALWAYS in the MIDDLE because I have two enticing new books from NGK to tell you about. First up is ZEUS THE MIGHTY—The Trials of Hairy-Clees, the third book in this fiction series. I … Continue reading →

Posted in Uncategorized | 1 Comment

KEEPING IT REAL

Posted on October 22, 2021 by Greg Pattridge

Paula Chase, the acclaimed author of So Done, Dough Boys, and Turning Point, explores betrayal, conformity, and forgiveness—and what it means to be family—in this timely and memorable stand-alone novel. Marigold was the only black kid at her fancy private school until scholarship … Continue reading →

Posted in Uncategorized | 3 Comments

AN OCCASIONALLY HAPPY FAMILY

Posted on August 15, 2021 by Greg Pattridge

I’ve been getting quite a few requests from parents and boys looking for books with male protagonists. I have three good ones to share beginning with today’s review of AN OCCASIONALLY HAPPY FAMILY. Theo is 13 and the narrator of … Continue reading →

Posted in Uncategorized | 9 Comments

Weird but True! OCEAN

Posted on July 2, 2021 by Greg Pattridge

Dive into these fishy facts: Did you know that the prehistoric shark, megalodon, had jaws so big that it could swallow a car? Or that goats, pigs, dogs, cats, and even an alpaca have all learned how to surf? And … Continue reading →

Posted in Middle Grade Book Reviews, non fiction, Uncategorized | Tagged , | 4 Comments