ALWAYS in the MIDDLE is taking part in the blog tour for the new MG novel, ARMANDO AND THE AMAZING ANIMAL RACE by Diana Schaffter. Read my review and be sure to enter the fantastic GIVEAWAY!
Jennifer Bohnhoff reviews Caroline Starr Rose’s recently published middle grade verse novel: THE BURNING SEASON.
Isabelle Knight shares what it’s like prepping for a book launch of her new MG fantasy novel, along with a few tips for any authors who might be planning their own book launch.
Tonja Drecker has a review of The Lost Book of Undersea Adventure by Teddy Keen.
I’m happy to be a part of the blog tour for this engaging new middle grade book, ARMANDO & THE AMAZING ANIMAL RACE. A fantastic GIVEAWAY follows my review.
Twelve-year-old Aramando is the likeable narrator for the story. He and his Grandma are about to embark on an amazing journey around the world. They are competing in a contest to photograph 7 endangered animals in just 70 days:
Polar Bear in Greenland
Desert Leopard in Israel
Grevy’s Zebra in Kenya
Four-Toed Jerboa in Egypt
Siberian tiger in Russia
Spectacled Cobra in India
Pied Tamarin Monkey in Brazil
There is prize money and a cruise for the winner but Armando and Granny D’s real wish is to complete the same race their beloved mom and daughter Amelia never finished 8 years ago. She mysteriously disappeared during the competition and was never found. The mystery of why also motivate this multi-generational twosome. Armando has also found his mother’s old race journal which will hopefully help them in their global adventure.
There are many dangerous encounters both with animals and humans that will keep readers in page turning mode through 52 chapters. I’m always hooked on a story that provide surprises for scenes and encounters I never predicted. There are many to be enjoyed. You also learn a lot about the countries and those animals you may never of heard of before.
The biggest plus is the environmental learning, especially how humans are destroying habitats of animals forcing them to find a new home or die. Many are caught by traps. Resources in the back pages of the book highlight organizations involved in global conservation.
Having a winning character like Armando leading the way make this read even more special. He learns a lot about his mother and himself. His growth in confidence is a special part of the story. Armando also gains the voice to finally connect with his dad, the way a father and son should be. I won’t give away the ending, but ARMANDO AND THE AMAZING ANIMAL RACE is heartwarming and the story wraps up with no plot points left unfinished. Highly recommended!
BOOK BIRTHDAY: May 20, 2025 PAGE COUNT: 350
FIVE MORE THINGS TO LIKE ABOUT: ARMANDO & THE AMAZING ANIMAL RACE by Diana Schaffter
Jinny is a friend from back home we only meet through messages. She’s a best friend for Armando and helps with research for the race. Jinny could have been a forgotten secondary character, but has a significant presence here.
Illustrations throughout help connect readers to the locations along with fascinating animal facts from Amelia’s race journal. You learn so much about our world in a appealing format.
The research the author did to write this book is truly amazing. She did her own world journey to gather the necessary facts by following in the footsteps of Armando. A dedicated author at work here!
The plot is entertaining to keep readers interested, but you also gain insights into problem solving skills and an appreciation for wildlife and different cultures.
The father believes Armando and Granny D are spending the summer together in London. He has no idea they are competing in this race. I kept hoping he’d find out and get involved and sure enough he does in a perfect way.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Diana Schaffter is no stranger to adventure. She is fluent in Thai, has traveled to over fifty countries, raised her two sons overseas, and lived in seven countries in Asia and Eastern Europe for forty-two years, including two years in Pyongyang, North Korea, where her husband was the head of the UNICEF office. Diana has worked with Cambodian refugees, taught in international schools, opened schools in Thailand and Vietnam, and has been an educational consultant to non-governmental organizations and the Ministry of Education in Laos.
In researching her story, she followed in the footsteps of her main character, Armando, traveling to Southern India to search for wild cobras with the Irula tribe, to Vladivostok, Russia, to see a Siberian tiger with a local conservationist, to the home of the elusive desert leopard in the Judean desert in Israel; and into the thick Brazilian Amazon rainforest to visit an Indigenous tribe and to photograph a pied tamarin monkey. Wherever she has lived, Diana has witnessed the power of human resilience, cooperation, and caring, which inspires her writing. Diana and her co-adventurer husband, Tim, now live in Sidney, BC, Canada, where she continues to write, give talks in schools and communities, and work with young people.
Enter for a chance to win a copy of Armando and the Amazing Animal Race signed by Diana Schaffter! One lucky grand prize winner will also receive an exclusive adventure-themed bundle that includes a themed T-shirt, a set of vibrant stickers featuring all seven endangered animals from the story, three beautifully illustrated maps, and, to top it all off, a $50 Amazon gift certificate.
Debut author Dana Robertson gives readers an adventure full of surprising turns. The 33 mostly short chapters dive into the mystery of what happened to the now spooky looking theater. Here’s the enticing synopsis:
Deep in the woods of the Winnodov property sits the abandoned theater. Something mysterious happened during the last performance there – the same night Mr. Winnodov disappeared. Eight years later, it’s happening again. A group of mischievous teenagers sneaks into the theater. And now, one is missing. When 12-year-old Beth Shoner learns who the missing teen is, she sets off with two friends to find him. But what they discover is more astonishing than they could ever have imagined. Now, Beth must defeat an evil plan unleashed long ago that threatens to destroy countless worlds, including their own.
The two friends that accompany Beth are complete opposites, making the threesome even more appealing. Teri is the popular girl while Stan has a few nerd like qualities, making him less than appealing to his age group. These two eventually come to appreciate each other. The first part of the plot sets up the action that follows in the second half. Beth is the determined one and convinces them to follow her into the theater where the story really takes off.
This is Book One in the Alderland Series, and although the world building is good here, I hope for even more depth and reveals as the series progresses. The numerous secondary characters have character arcs not fully explained, but a plot like this takes time.
The story works best for those who love fantasy and tales about discovering true friendships, a family mystery, and portals into another world. There are a few innocent kisses, but nothing inappropriate for middle grade audiences. THE ABANDONED THEATER debuted earlier this month and is available at Amazon and Barnes & Noble.
PAGES: 184
About the Author
Dana Robertson lives in Oshawa, Ontario, Canada. She completed a bachelor’s degree in English Literature and Psychology with Trent University in Peterborough Ontario, followed by a graduate creative writing program with the Humber School for Writers in Toronto, Ontario. She writes mystery, fantasy, science fiction and middle grade. The Abandoned Theater is her debut novel and book one of the Alderland Series. (Visit Dana’s 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 from other individuals blogging about middle grade books. Many of the posts will have reviews, interviews, and tips on writing. Take a look at PAST MMGM POSTS.
It’s easy to get a spot in the lineup. 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 don’t forget to say what 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 that week’s MMGM.
*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.
Jennifer Rummel has a review of the graphic novel Speechless.
Isabelle Knight gives us an interview with Russell J. Fellows, author of ‘Children of the Ancient Heroes‘ where he shares how he got the idea for this series, how the series really started, and his tips for young writers!
Susan Uhlig shares middle grade novels set in the states she’s lived.
Sue Heavenrich @ Archimedes Notebook gives us a look at a book filled with outlaw plants: Fantastic Flora: The World’s Biggest, Baddest, and Smelliest Plants.
Tonja Drecker has a review of How To Be A Color Wizard: Forage and Experiment with Natural Art Making by Jason Logan.
Charlotte’s Library is back with us this week with a review of THE VILLAGE BEYOND THE MIST by Sachiko Kashiwaba.
Rosi Hollinbeck reviews ORRIS AND TIMBLE LOST AND FOUND & MERCY WATSON IS MISSING! by Kate DiCamillo. Rosi also shares three links of interest for her writing friends.
Karen Yingling at Mrs. Yingling Reads has abook to share every day. Check out Karen’s MMGM choice for this week and all of her reviews from last week.
“I’m Tom’s dog, and he’s my boy. And if he’s stepped right inside the jaws of death, then I’m going to follow him into them and bring him back out.”
I AM REBEL won the prestigious Waterstone’s 2024 Children’s Book of the Year in Great Britain. Candlewick Books has now brought this engaging and heartwarming story to the states.
Rebel is a five year old cute as can be mutt who lives with his owner, 12-year-old Tom and his parents on their farm. Life is getting increasingly difficult given the taxes the King has imposed on working citizens. He lives in a lavish castle and seems to care only about himself.
Tom sneaks away and joins the rebellion to defeat the King and his troops. Rebel is told to stay. He does so at first but then he can’t stand having his best friend gone and in danger. Rebel takes off in search of Tom.
The story moves from one danger to another and Rebel narrates each encounter through the 36 chapters with gripping reality. He meets more humans who are helpful and other animals. Dog lovers will understand the bond that can happen between a dog and his best friend. I AM REBEL has a classic feel to it and one that will keep young readers glued to its pages.
FIVE MORE THINGS TO LIKE ABOUT: I AM REBEL by Ross Montgomery
Jaxon is a tough minded dog that Rebel meets during a time of need. Jaxon isn’t owned by anyone and roams the hillsides freely. They disagree on many things but soon begin to see each other in a more positive way. Their bond is also a memorable part of the story.
Sadness is the gripping reality in each chapter, but by the end you will be smiling at the outcome.
Loyalty and friendship comes forth with each word Rebel narrates. Good dog! A great point of view and one that was exceptionally done, giving you the feeling of being right there.
The cover is perfect. There’s danger behind Rebel but those eyes are only searhcing out Tom (and probably a lot of new readers!)
Hesitant readers will be glad to know that no dogs die in this tale.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Ross Montgomery has worked as a pig farmer, a postman and a primary school teacher, so writing books was the next logical step. He spent his childhood reading everything he could get his hands on, from Jacqueline Wilson to Beano annuals, and it taught him pretty much everything that’s worth knowing. If you looked through his pockets you’d find empty crisp packets, lists of things to do, and a bottle of that stuff you put on your nails to stop you biting them. He lives in London with his girlfriend, a cat called Fun Bobby, and a cactus on every available surface. (Ross’s Author Website)
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COMMENTS ARE WELCOME BELOW!AND BE SURE TO VISIT ALL THE OTHER BLOGGERS ON TODAY’S MARVELOUS MIDDLE GRADE MONDAY!
Tilly, our impulsive protagonist, is spending the summer in Clayton Forest with Opa, a magical teacher. She hasn’t discovered what magic she will have but being with her twin cousins, Jess and Zach, and learning about potions and self defense from fairies and gnomes will help her understand.
What she is really here for is to find her friend Michael who disappeared a year ago in the neighboring and witch controlled Wythic Wood. She convinces her cousins to help in the search and sneak into Wythic Wood to save Michael. The quest is not easy when they are hunted by the Witch of Wythic Wood (try saying that 3 times fast!) who has bears, crows, weredogs, and other creatures to bring these three to their demise.
The third person narration takes readers through 18 chapters. Of course when it says Book One on the cover, you know not all plot points will have resolution. I won’t reveal what happens, but it sure would have been satisfying to have this story wrapped up more fully by the last page. Readers will be anxiously anticipating the arrival of Book Two.
The three young protagonists (you can see their dark outline on the cover’s center), each have fun and memorable personalities that show off their strengths and weaknesses. IF any of those potions they use are ever available on Amazon, sign me up! 🙂
VANISHINGS will appeal to anyone looking for a magical adventure full of surprises and a cast of supportive characters.
BOOK BIRTHDAY: May 20, 2025 PAGES: 272
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Catharina Steel has an adventurous spirit and enjoys traveling and exploring. The forests in The Wythic Wood Mysteries series and the world in the Kinesis’ series stems from her love for hiking, the outdoors, and the enchanting essence found in these settings. She’s had various pets over the years, among them a kid goat named “Billy,” named after the famous “Billy the Kid.” Her current cherished companion is Macherie, a gentle and sweet greyhound. During her leisure time, Catharina enjoys viewing properties, walking in the southwest region of Western Australia where she dwells, reading, sketching, and watching TV series. (for more about Catharina and her writing endeavors visit her 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 from other individuals blogging about middle grade books. Many of the posts will have reviews, interviews, and tips on writing. Take a look at PAST MMGM POSTS.
It’s easy to get a spot in the lineup. 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 don’t forget to say what 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 that week’s MMGM.
*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.
(THE WINNER OF LAST WEEK’S GIVEAWAY OF SPELLING IT OUT IS PETE SPRINGER! CONGRATULATIONS!)
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Evie Steinberg only sees her best friend at summer camp each summer. Evie and Dara are everything that make being friends special. Sharing secrets and always there for each other when needed. Best friends forever.
Although A FIELD GUIDE TO BROKEN PROMISES starts out as a summer camp story, it quickly moves in another direction when Evie’s father picks her up early because once again their family is moving.
Evie’s mom is a broadcaster and has gotten a new job at a television station in California. Evie has never lived anywhere long enough to make other friends but this move is going to be long term for the first time.
It’s the start of 7th grade and when Evie arrives she is shocked to see summer camp friend Dara sitting in her first class. Dara was supposed to be going to a boarding school. Instead, they can continue being best friends all year.
The happiness quickly turns ugly when Dara claims not to know Evie and begins spreading wild rumors about her. Evie is portrayed as a stalker, a weirdo, and avoided by other students, except when they are throwing things at her or saying mean things in the hallway. Evie is confused and hurt by the changes in her now former best friend. She has to figure out what happened.
Evie’s dad is a cryptozoologist (someone who studies the existence of legendary creatures like Bigfoot). Evie also enjoys the research and working with her dad in the past. Maybe Dara is a golem. Jewish folklore brings to life this artificial creature. Since Dara’s mom is a rabbi in the Jewish community this must be the answer. Dara is a fake imposter. Evie just needs more evidence. She and two new friends begin the task of proving that Dara is a fake. I can only reveal this plan does not go well.
Forty-three chapters are at the right length and move the story to an appealing resolution. The reason for the change in Dara’s friendship becomes a believable end but also a new beginning for Evie. She is the true star of this tale. Her character is depicted perfectly and will be one young readers can learn from.
A FIELD GUIDE TO BROKEN PROMISES is a unique look at trying to be perfect, the hurt of not fulfilling promises, and how bullying effects all involved. Some great discussion starters for young readers.
BOOK BIRTHDAY: May 6, 2025 PAGES: 288
FIVE MORE THINGS TO LIKE ABOUT: A FIELD GUIDE TO BROKEN PROMISES by Lean Stecher
A two parent home is a good thing in most family situations, but when one parent is always away doing work it can become challenging. This is brought forth in excellent fashion here as Evie’s dad is always gone. The effects are hurtful for the rest of the family.
Crytozoologist. It’s a word you’ve probably not come across, but here you get an insider’s look at the research they must do to make unbelievable creatures believable.
Many young people will see themselves in Evie, always trying to make things perfect and become the strong person in their family. They’ll find the ending here reassuring.
Friend drama. The author pours it on in an accurate and revealing portrayal with all the characters.
A fun bat or bar mitzvah party is a must in this community. You really understand their importance (and expense) with the parties going on during this 7th grade year.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Leah Stecher is the critically acclaimed author of The Things We Miss(Bloomsbury, May 2024) which was an ALSC Notable Children’s Book and a 2024 Shelf Awareness Best Book of the Year and the forthcoming A Field Guide to Broken Promises(Bloomsbury, May 6, 2025). She was born and raised in Southern California and currently lives in coastal Maine. By day, she edits policy papers for an environmental nonprofit; by night, she writes middle grade fiction. She has strong opinions on tea blends, chocolate chip cookie recipes, and action movies. (Author’s website)
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COMMENTS ARE WELCOME BELOW!AND BE SURE TO VISIT ALL THE OTHER BLOGGERS ON TODAY’S MARVELOUS MIDDLE GRADE MONDAY!
A big story featuring an engaging group of animal characters. It didn’t seem like the plot could be wrapped up by book’s end and sure enough there it was on the last page…To be continued.
Here’s the enticing back cover preview:
Twig never imagined himself at the center of anything important—let alone a battle for the fate of the Woodland Realm. But when his peaceful village is attacked by the ruthless Fortress Crows, the young chickadee finds himself on the run, hunted by a terrifying sorceress and her winged army. Thankfully, he’s not alone. Alongside a cunning bard, a fearless warrior, and two mischievous tumblers—who cause almost as much trouble as they solve—Twig embarks on a journey to uncover an ancient power and prevent history from repeating its darkest (and dumbest) mistakes.
The action moves back and forth between two groups of animals. First their is Twig, a young, thoughtful chickadee, and Scarecrow who lives in a scarecrow but is actually a wise and philosophical crow himself. Their relationship is like a father and son who truly need each other to survive what lies ahead.
The other group of animals adds even more intrigue and doses of humor to the fantasy adventure. Boswell is a slightly overweight groundhog who entertains as a roaming bard. Along for the ride are two playful and tough sugar gliders in Eca and Ayu. They are a fun pair of tumblers but also yield weapons if needed. Eventually joining this rescue group is Randall, a possum magician and Evelyn, a member of the captured queen’s guard. She leads them on a mission to save the queen.
Paralleling the misdeeds done by humans in our history, the journey touches upon environmental concerns, treatment of animals, and assuming a certain specie is bad because of the despicable actions of one of its own. The world building shines in each scene.
Perfect for fans of the classic Watership Down, THE UNRAVELING-THE COUNSEL OF CROWS will also appeal to anyone searching for a unique fantasy adventure with a memorable cast of animals.
ABOUT THE AUTHORS
Keith Ward is a teacher, author, and tabletop game designer/writer.
Karl Buechner is a ground breaking musician, animal rights activist, skate boarder and novelist. He has toured the world with his Hardcore Metal bands Earth Crisis, Freya and Apocalypse Tribe.
Jeremy Mueller is an author, musician and artisan. He’s worked as a pastry chef, welder, mason and salesman. He currently lives in Syracuse, New York with his gorgeous wife and two awesome step sons. He also has two beautiful daughters who are flourishing on their own. Jeremy is passionate about writing, working with his hands and spending time with his family and friends.
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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 from other individuals blogging about middle grade books. Many of the posts will have reviews, interviews, and tips on writing. Take a look at PAST MMGM POSTS.
It’s easy to get a spot in the lineup. 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 don’t forget to say what 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 that week’s MMGM.
*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.
It’s time to celebrate our fantastic contributors! Each week I will randomly draw the name of a devoted MMGM blogger and reward them with the top spot in the lineup. The MMGM all-star for today is…
Jenni Enzor has a post about The Fairy Tale Fan Club: Legendary Letters Collected by C.C. Cecily.
ALWAYS in the MIDDLE features a review and GIVEAWAY of SPELLING IT OUT by Margaret Finnegan.
Natalie Aguirre @ Literary Rambles has a guest post by Leah Stecher and a GIVEAWAY of her MG contemporary A Field Guide to Broken Promises.
Isabelle Knight has a brief interview with children’s author, Barbara O’Connor.
It’s easy to get a spot in the lineup. Email me the title of the book or feature for any middle grade book, author or giveaway, and a link to your blog. Send it to: 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 don’t forget to say what 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 that week’s MMGM.
*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.
ALWAYS in the MIDDLE is taking part in the blog tour for the new MG novel, ARMANDO AND THE AMAZING ANIMAL RACE by Diana Schaffter. Read my review and be sure to enter the fantastic GIVEAWAY!
ALWAYS in the MIDDLE
ALWAYS in the MIDDLE
Always in the Middle... 