Always in the Middle...

What Makes A Good Story?

Posted on October 30, 2015 by Greg Pattridge

I first came across this question when I began my first classroom teaching job. The teacher I replaced left several copies of a short manual for kids: What Makes A Good Story? (Unfortunately out of print). Inside are 13 short stories and a discussion of what truly make good stories. It motivates students to write better with the techniques explored.

Fast forward more than a few years and here I am writing my own stories and preparing to be a round 2 CYBILS judge in the middle grade fiction category. Last time I checked there were 108 nominees to be read by round 1 judges. My part doesn’t come in until January after they have whittled the list down to the top 5-7 best.

I’ve been thinking a lot about the question posed above and started to look through my notes. These are my own scribbles going back to my college writing classes, conferences attended, tons of books on how to write, and the numerous blogs providing helpful hints. My notes were scattered far and wide so I started a file to compile the list in one location. So… what does make a good story?

Conflict. There are seven kinds as noted in this linked article. You don’t have to use them all, but a story without conflict turns into a real yawner.
Characters you love or hate. There’s nothing better than feeling a part of the character’s emotions, decision making, along with their successes, failures and changes. This comes about by writing through the MC’s actions, words, thoughts, and opinions.
A theme or themes surfaces. The story should have meaning or make you think in a different way.
Using an effective point of view for your story.
Setting becomes vivid in a reader’s mind through the use of the five senses.
A story that causes emotions from its readers. That could be tears, laughter, or sometimes both at the same time. Reactions are what hook readers.
A satisfying ending whether it be happy or sad.

All of this depends on the words a writer skillfully puts together to create the overall effect.

Now, what makes a great story? For me it’s the book or movie you’ve already read or watched and look forward to repeating the experience. I hope the CYBILS winner for 2015 will be that kind of story.

Posted in Uncategorized | 7 Comments

THE THIEF OF ALWAYS for Marvelous Middle Grade Monday

Posted on October 26, 2015 by Greg Pattridge

Clive Barker. You may have heard his name from the many fantasy/horror books and movies for adults he’s either directed, produced, or written. I’m referring to titles like Hellraiser and Books of Blood. My first reaction when picking up this novel more than ten years ago was: Clive Barker wrote a book for kids? Hide it now before some poor child gets his hands on this nightmarish horror.

Curious to read for myself, I immediately fell in love with this fable about 10-year-old Harvey Swick. It quickly became a classroom favorite read-aloud. Various images have graced the book jacket over the years, but the story inside is the same.

Harvey has the same problem many kids face during the time after the holidays when January slowly turns into February. It’s called boredom. He finds hope when invited to a magical place known as the Holiday House. He discovers a much different world than the one he left behind where two loving parents are wondering why Harvey never returned from school.

At the Holiday House, each season is experienced every day. That means Spring turns into the joys of summer, followed by Halloween (trick or treating every night!), and Christmas at midnight. Some kids have loads of gifts lining the wall of their rooms signalling they’ve been there more than just a day. Soon though Harvey discovers that a world lacking of boredom has hidden secrets and now he must find a way to escape and return to a life that might not seem so boring anymore.

The first paragraph introduces in a fine way what lies ahead: The great gray beast of February had eaten Harvey Swick alive. Here he was, buried in the belly of that smothering month, wondering if he would ever find his way out through the cold coils that lay between here and Easter.

Clive Barker never wrote another book for children. I guess why bother when you achieved perfection the first time out.

PUBLICATION DATE: 1992 WORD COUNT: 37,680 LEVEL: 4.8

FULL PLOT (From AMAZON)

Mr. Hood’s Holiday House has stood for a thousand years, welcoming countless children into its embrace. It is a place of miracles, a blissful rounds of treats and seasons, where every childhood whim may be satisfied…

There is a price to be paid, of course, but young Harvey Swick, bored with his life and beguiled by Mr. Hood’s wonders, does not stop to consider the consequences. It is only when the House shows it’s darker face — when Harvey discovers the pitiful creatures that dwell in its shadows — that he comes to doubt Mr. Hood’s philanthropy.

The House and its mysterious architect are not about to release their captive without a battle, however. Mr. Hood has ambitious for his new guest, for Harvey’s soul burns brighter than any soul he has encountered in a thousand years…

FIVE THINGS TO LIKE ABOUT: THE THIEF OF ALWAYS by Clive Barker

The book will appeal not only to 8-12 year old children but also adults who remember those times of boredom. Those times we wish a little more of these days.
This is one of those books that hooks readers from the start and you have to read on for the next surprising plot twist. Short chapters (26 in all) that are great read leading up to Halloween or other times of the year when you hear that familiar cry “I’m bored.”
Some scenes are horrifying but far less than what you might see on early evening television these days. Mr. Barker has written a story that won’t be nightmare inducing but certainly thought provoking.
After reading the first chapter out loud, I’ve had reluctant readers take it home and read the rest in one night. You can only imagine the shocked look on their parents’ faces.
You’ll find lessons in plot structure here with perfectly refined climaxes, tension, suspicion, conflict, and heroism all rolled up into one fine story. No sequel needed here. THE THIEF OF ALWAYS covers all the bases.

FAVORITE SPOOKY LINES:

He tossed a few comics in Harvey’s direction. “Look through these. Find yourself a monster for tonight.”

“What’s happening tonight?”

“Halloween, of course,” Wendell said. “It happens every night.”

AUTHOR INSIGHTS: (from The Official Clive Barker Website)

The Thief of Always was Clive’s first published novel for all ages. He called it a fable and the story is very much a fairy tale, illustrated with Clive’s own pen and ink drawings.

In the years since it was first published, Thief has been used as a set text in schools in the UK and US, has been adapted into a graphic novel and promises to maybe be a film in the future…

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Posted in Reviews | Tagged Clive Barker, male protagonists, Marvelous Middle Grade Monday, MG book reviews, MG Halloween reads, Middle grade, The Thief of Always | 5 Comments

ALWAYS OCTOBER for Marvelous Middle Grade Monday

Posted on October 19, 2015 by Greg Pattridge

The winner of the SCARY SCHOOL series by Derek the Ghost is… Marilyn Metz. She lives in the deep south with her family and is positive her 10 year old will adore this series. Congratulations!

A celebration of spooks and goblins can’t be much of a celebration without author Bruce Coville. By my count he is up to 134 books and most cover the world of monsters, aliens, and other creepy topics. I could have gone the easy route and chosen his popular I WAS A SIXTH GRADE ALIEN, MY TEACHER IS AN ALIEN series, or one of a dozen anthologies available with topics like nightmares and ghosts.

Instead, I went for one of that came out three years ago, his 100th book and my personal favorite. ALWAYS OCTOBER is a hefty MG story many may have been missed with its length. Inside is a thrilling tale of our own world and another that deals in monsters and nightmares. Perfect as a read aloud, the story is told with alternating viewpoints: main character, Jake, and his friend, Lily. Those authors who wish to write from two POV’s can learn to how to pull this off my reading the chapters in ALWAYS OCTOBER.

Thrilling to the end but never nightmare inducing, this tale will sure keep your attention. Fun and scary monsters will demand that from you.

PUBLICATION DATE: 2012 WORD COUNT: 69,515 READING LEVEL: 5.0

FULL PLOT : (from Bruce Coville’s web site)

No doubt about it, little brothers can be monsters. When sixth grader Jake Doolittle finds a baby on the doorstep and his mother decides to keep it, those words are more than just an expression. Instead, they perfectly describe the way his new little brother, LD, sprouts pointy ears, thick fur, and fangs in moonlight.

Not only is LD a monster… other monsters have plans for him. But together with his friend “Weird Lily” Carker, Jake isn’t about to let anything happen to the baby. The little guy is still his brother, even if it turns out that LD may be the key to saving the world—or destroying it.

Soon Jake and Lily are on a perilous quest through Always October, a world populated with monsters ranging from the venomous to the ridiculous. Master of comic suspense Bruce Coville presents a tale of ominous dangers and hairbreadth escapes, of the conflict between forces of dark and light, and of the lengths to which one boy will go to save his brother—monster or not.

FIVE THINGS TO LIKE ABOUT: ALWAYS OCTOBER by Bruce Coville

The story twists and winds it way through Jake’s family tree. There’s an author grandfather who is responsible for creating the Always October world. Then there’s Jakes’ dad who mysteriously disappeared. The plot ties everything up by the end except for keeping the door open for a possible sequel.
The way each cliffhanger chapter ends demands that you read on. It’s a great example of how to hook kids into reading more.
The monster names are strange like they should be: Invisible Ed, Keegel Farzym, Dum Pling, and Squeak to name a few.
First lines are always a problem maker in my own writing. I look to others to bring me inspiration and Mr. Coville comes through. Here’s the first line in ALWAYS OCTOBER and yes it grabs you from the start: We’ve only got two weeks before Jake turns into a monster for the first time.
Writing is all about visualizing new places for readers. The world of Always October comes to life with vivid descriptions and wild scenes. You’ll have a safe seat as you watch it unfold.

FAVORITE SCARY LINES:

I hardened myself against the sight. Who knew what the little monster might do if I picked it up? Part of me felt I should just turn and run, but the wretched thing continued to stare at me with those big, pleading eyes. It reached for me again.

AUTHOR QUOTE:

Talent is only part of what it takes to be a writer. Luck and courage and mostly just plain old sticking to it are just as important.

Here are a couple of other little tricks you can start using today.

When you’re trying to make a scene come alive, use more than one of the senses. By that I mean don’t just tell me what a place looks like; tell me what it smells like and what it sounds like.

To help make your characters more memorable, give them some little trait that is unusual, something to help them stick in the reader’s mind.

Read your writing out loud. This will help you when you are revising.

Oh, and in case I forgot to mention it—never give up.

Good luck. Happy reading—and writing!

For more insights see Bruce Coville’s web site.

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I’ll be back on Thursday with bonus mini-reviews of scary favorites admired by both kids and adults.

Next Monday is my last spooky post for the month where I will reveal my absolute favorite Halloween tale. It’s a surprising choice!

Check the links to other Middle Grade novels over at Shannon Messenger’s Marvelous Middle Grade Monday post.

Posted in Reviews | Tagged Always October, Bruce Coville, male protagonists, Marvelous Middle Grade Monday, MG book reviews, MG Halloween reads, Middle grade | 12 Comments

SCARY SCHOOL SERIES for Marvelous Middle Grade Monday

Posted on October 12, 2015 by Greg Pattridge

This month’s second recommended spooky read isn’t all that spooky, but it is hilarious times four. Yes, this series just had the release of the fourth book, ZILLIONS OF ZOMBIES. I’ve got a review of all four books and if you scroll to the bottom of this post, you’ll find details how to enter and possibly win a great giveaway of the entire series.

FIVE THINGS TO LIKE ABOUT: SCARY SCHOOL SERIES by Derek the Ghost

If you are in need of a laugh, you’ll find it jumping out at you on many of the pages. Having a bad day? Read a chapter and you’ll feel better. Silly is something we all need a larger dose of once in a while.
Derek the Ghost is an entertaining story teller, or as he is described – a ghost writer. You forget he’s a ghost with his humorous take on the daily events at Scary School. Derek’s story is also covered, but you’ll have to read all four to get the full story.
A big WOW to Scott Fischer’s brilliant illustrations in the first three books and Revo Yanson in Book #4. I’d decorate a kid’s room with many of their funny depictions.
From the lunchroom to the classroom to the playground, the craziness of this place shines. Not only do you get inside Scary School but be prepared to head off to other mysterious places. So many inventive and creative happenings thanks to the author.
The accompanying website is a great extension of the book with a Scary School theme song, quizzes, and bonus chapters. SCARY SCHOOL website

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Are you new to this series like I was or missed one of the books? Have no fear! I’ll bring you up to date…

SCARY SCHOOL #1

PUBLICATION DATE: 2011 Word Count: 34,244 Reading Level: 6.1

The first book has a loose plot that serves to introduce readers to the students and staff of Scary School… and what a cast of characters!

Charles Nukid (He’s called new kid only because he is the new kid), Nurse Hairymoles, Frank (pronounced Rachel), Principal Headcrusher, and Dr. Dragonbreath to name a few. There are frequent deaths but the dearly departed are usually brought back in various ways.

Skillfully narrated by Derek the Ghost, the accompanying well drawn pictures are a fun reminder of the characters. The images, scattered across the chapters, often get full page treatment.

The story covers year one at Scary School that culminates with The Ghoulish Games.This story would make a great read aloud before lights out or in the classroom. It’s also a good choice for the reluctant reader in your life.

FAVORITE LINES: As you will see, there’s all sorts of ways a kid can come back from the dead and keep attending classes. In fact, losing your life is never an excuse for missing class. Plus through the act of dying, a dead student will ironically learn an important life lesson. It is such life lessons that will make Scary School probably the most wholesome book series to be published in the last twenty years.

SCARY SCHOOL #2: MONSTERS ON THE MARCH

PUBLICATION DATE: 2012 Word Count: 34,521 Reading Level: 5.5

Derek the Ghost continues his humorous narration in book #2 covering the first semester of sixth grade. Back are students Charles Nukid, Penelope Possum, and an entire class who spent the three-month summer vacation trapped in a haunted house. New characters are also introduced in the form of Mr. Grump, the elephant man teacher; and Ms. Hydra, a rather scary hall monitor with seven heads.

The more plot driven sequel has the students of Scary School on a trip to the Monster Forest. They won this opportunity by their expert play in the Ghoulish games from Book #1. They meet a variety of fearsome monsters including King Zog whose daughter, Princess Zogette, follows her new love (Charles Nukid) back to Scary School. War then erupts between the monsters.

With this fantasy filled setting, laughs at every turn (some only adults will get), and more wild and spooky adventures, this second installment will grip even the most reluctant readers.

FAVORITE LINES: The mummy walked to the chalkboard and drew several pictures. He drew a circle, a bird, a snake, then another bird.

A blond-haired girl sitting in in the front row said, “Your name is Circle Bird Snake Bird?”

“No!” howled the mummy. “This is how you spell King Khufu in hieroglyphics. Don’t any of you know who I am?”

SCARY SCHOOL #3: THE NORTHERN FRIGHTS

PUBLICATION DATE: 2013 Word Count: 36,331 Reading Level: 5.6

The kids and staff of Scary School are back from Winter break in this third book. Lattie, a girl ninja, is a new character introduced. What she does to intercept a spit wad is simply amazing. She along with Charles Nukid and four other students are chosen to attend Scream Academy, the scariest of all schools. Principal Headcrusher is the only human to ever survive this place and it’s not looking as promising for this group. It will be humans against monsters (Like ogres, trolls, and yettis), and the Scary School students will need to work together to come out on top. An epic showdown with an ice dragon will determine their fate.

This installment is a bit more serious but will still keep the attention of readers with unique characters and a surprising finish.

FAVORITE LINES:

Mr. Grump handed Petunia the piece of paper.

“What does it say?” asked Wendy Crumkin, the smartest girl in the class. She pushed back her red hair and pushed up her glasses over her freckled nose

Petunia responded, “It’s a note from Principal Headcrusher. It says , Dear Mr. Grump. It has come to my attention that you know absolutely nothing and are therefore not qualified to be a teacher at this school. However, you are welcome to join your class as a student. As soon as you know something instead of nothing, I will consider rehiring you. Yours truly, Principal Meredith Headcrusher.

SCARY SCHOOL #4: ZILLIONS OF ZOMBIES

PUBLICATION DATE: 2015 Page Count: 224

The final book in the Scary School saga is a fun, exciting, zombie filled conclusion to this kid loving series. The tension is ramped up, but not at the expense of the humor in every chapter. I found myself giggling and several times full out laughter escaped. It was hard not to with the crazy events as described by Derek the Ghost.

This plot is the most tension filled of the four with Charles Nukid becoming King of the monsters (AKA King Toothpick) while zombies are creating havoc both in Monster Kingdom and back at Scary School. Derek has a lot to cover as he describes the scary proceedings at each location.

It takes courage and some rather unusual new characters to bring readers to THE END. My favorites were the bog monster, Chunky the doll, and the worst unicorn magician one could imagine.

Despite the zillions of zombies, (don’t worry… nothing too gruesome to keep the middle grade crowd from sleeping), themes of friendship, accepting differences, and working together ring true. There’s even a bonus chapter that shows what happens 29 years after this story.

The series successfully wraps up every plot point and will live on to entertain many new fans. That also means I have a great source for the 8-11 year-old reluctant reader. How can they resist?

FAVORITE LINES: They reached the end of the corridor and stood before an ominous iron door. there was a skull and crossbones at the top. Written in blood on the wall beside it was: “Do Not Enter,” “Keep out,” and “I couldn’t find a marker.”

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MORE TIDBITS & A GREAT GIVEAWAY:

Click here for more information about the man behind Derek the Ghost (DEREK TAYLOR KENT)

To mark the recent release of SCARY SCHOOL #4: ZILLIONS OF ZOMBIES, I’m celebrating with a giveaway of all four books in the series (One hardcover and three paperbacks courtesy of the author). Just mention your favorite Halloween costume worn by you or a trick or treater in the comments and you’re in the drawing. One lucky winner will be drawn next Sunday evening (10/18/15) at 7 p.m. EDT so get your entry posted by then.

I’m not eligible of course, but I’ll share a picture of my favorite costume from the past. My teammate and I had it all worked out that we would parade the halls as Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid. I was ready to go, but Butch forgot his costume at home. We made quite the scary bad guys anyway:

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Check the links to other Middle Grade novels over at Shannon Messenger’s Marvelous Middle Grade Monday post.

Posted in Reviews | Tagged Derek Taylor Kent, Derek the Ghost, Marvelous Middle Grade Monday, MG book reviews, Middle grade, Scary School Series | 10 Comments

MOTHMAN’S CURSE for Marvelous Middle Grade Monday

Posted on October 5, 2015 by Greg Pattridge

Before we begin this spooky month of reviews, I need to announce last week’s winner of CURIOSITY HOUSE: THE SHRUNKEN HEAD. It’s none other than Michael Gettel Gilmartin. Congratulations. You can find Michael on his own blog, THE MIDDLE GRADE MAFIOSO, or on his group blog, PROJECT MAYHEM- The manic minds of middle grade writers.

Turn off the lamps and turn on the flashlight. I’m dedicating this month to all that is spooky in MG. I’ll recommend the best in ghosts, goblin, and creature type stories. The featured books are great for this time of the year, but they actually can bring goose bumps no matter what month you decide to read.

First up is this new title, MOTHMAN’S CURSE.

Josie is our 12-year-old heroine and narrates the story. Combined with her two younger brothers, the trio are smart, adventurous, and for the most part get along. Their unique personalities set them up to have success. The pace is perfect as the kids deal with everyday life and this strange creature known as the Mothman. Spooky for sure and scary, too, but not enough to bother the majority of MG readers.

Although fairly hefty for a MG book, drawings of the key events in the story are interspersed every chapter. It’s an enjoyable ride all the way to its thrilling conclusion.

PUBLICATION DATE: 2015 WORD COUNT: 59,111

FULL PLOT (From AMAZON)

When Josie and her brothers uncover a haunted camera, the Mothman legend becomes a terrifying reality that threatens their entire town in this spooky and action-filled novel.

Josie may live in the most haunted town in America, but the only strange thing she ever sees is the parade of oddball customers that comes through her family’s auction house each week. But when she and her brothers discover a Polaroid camera that prints pictures of the ghost of local recluse John Goodrich, they are drawn into a mystery dating back over a hundred years. A desperate spirit, cursed jewelry, natural disasters, and the horrible specter of Mothman all weave in and out of the puzzle that Josie must solve to break the curse and save her own life.

FIVE THINGS TO LIKE ABOUT: MOTHMAN’S CURSE by Christine Hayes

The family business is an auction house where curious items are auctioned every weekend. Such a unique sidelight, and one of the youngsters, Fox, is a an up and coming auctioneer. He even holds his own auctions just for other kids.
It was great to see the opposite side of Josie and Fox’s personalities come through. Josie gains more confidence and Fox shows he can be more serious.
The story is based on a real urban legend that I knew nothing about. The author provided links if readers want to learn more about Mothman.
The ending is a fast paced conclusion and will keep readers flipping the pages.
There’s a touch of time travel with Josie and they were some of my favorite scenes. She was able to see what happened in the past and figure out how to deal with the future.

FAVORITE SPOOKY LINE:

Fox kept staring, his breath rough. I pulled my sweatshirt sleeves down over my hands to slow the cold creeping into my limbs. Mason curled up against me. I could feel his heart racing in his chest.

AUTHOR QUOTE:

I grew up loving stories about the creatures that curl your toes and the legends that send a shiver down your spine. Now I love writing about them, too. I grew up in the northwest and now live in Utah with my family, our dog, Chewie, and a house full of vintage finds that I secretly hope might be haunted. (From Christine’s web site)

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Check the links to other Middle Grade novels over at Shannon Messenger’s Marvelous Middle Grade Monday post.

Posted in Reviews | Tagged Christine Hayes, female protagonists, Marvelous Middle Grade Monday, MG book reviews, Middle grade, Mothman's Curse | 10 Comments

CURIOSITY HOUSE: THE SHRUNKEN HEAD for Marvelous Middle Grade Monday

Posted on September 28, 2015 by Greg Pattridge

The first book in this planned series is set to debut tomorrow, and I’m thrilled to give you a preview of what to expect. First off, if you have no idea what a dime museum is, I didn’t either.

Dime museums were popular in the 1800’s and a one of the more popular ones was in New York City, started by the legendary P.T. Barnum. They were home for freak shows, curiosities, and circus performers. Dime museums popped up in many eastern U.S. cities.

The setting for THE SHRUNKEN HEAD is 1930’s New York at the mysterious Dumfrey’s Dime Museum of Freaks, Oddities, and Wonders! Most kids here in the western U.S. have no interest in 1930’s New York, but that minor concern will disappear once they discover what’s inside the doors of the museum.

The action centers around four orphans with unusual abilities: A contortionist, a mind reader, a knife thrower, and a boy with strength beyond his years. When Mr. Dunfrey’s prized possession, a shrunken head, disappears, the four children set out to solve the mystery. What ensues is murder and mayhem.

Both funny and fast paced, this series is sure to attract readers of all ages, not just MG. I for one became an instant fan.

Comment below and win a brand new hard back copy of CURIOSITY HOUSE – THE SHRUNKEN HEAD, courtesy of Harper Collins Publishers. The cover in the image doesn’t do it justice. The actual cover is shiny and gorgeous. You have until October 4th, 7 p.m. EDT to enter. I’ll announce the winner on this blog next Monday.

PUBLICATION DATE: SEPTEMBER 29, 2015 PAGE COUNT: 368

FULL PLOT (From HARPER COLLINS)

The book is about, among other things: the strongest boy in the world, a talking cockatoo, a faulty mind reader, a beautiful bearded lady and a nervous magician, an old museum, and a shrunken head.

Blessed with extraordinary abilities, orphans Philippa, Sam, and Thomas have grown up happily in Dumfrey’s Dime Museum of Freaks, Oddities, and Wonders. But when a fourth child, Max, a knife-thrower, joins the group, it sets off an unforgettable chain of events.

When the museum’s Amazonian shrunken head is stolen, the four are determined to get it back. But their search leads them to a series of murders and an explosive secret about their pasts. This sensational new series combines the unparalleled storytelling gifts of Lauren Oliver with the rich knowledge of the notorious relics collector H. C. Chester.

What you will find in this book:

A rather attractive bearded lady
Several scandalous murders
A deliciously disgusting Amazonian shrunken head
Four extraordinary children with equally extraordinary abilities
A quite loquacious talking bird

What you will NOT find in this book:

An accountant named Seymour
A never-ending line at the post office
Brussels sprouts (shudder)
A lecture on finishing all your homework on time
A sweet, gooey story for nice little girls and boys

FIVE THINGS TO LIKE ABOUT: THE SHRUNKEN HEAD by Lauren Oliver & H.C. Chester

The personalities of the four children are like very different puzzle pieces that end up fitting together nicely. Readers for sure will have a favorite to remember.
The mystery angle was a fun one to follow. I had it pretty well figured out by the end but the ride getting there was a scream.
You’ll be left hanging at the end, but not too bad. Most of the plot points and secrets are revealed. There’s just enough left to anxiously await book #2 in the series.
The creepy underworld of New York City was actually a nice change of pace from most MG books. I hope we learn more about this setting as the trilogy continues.
Full page sketches of the many weird things going on are scattered throughout the book. It’s a window to this unique time period.

FAVORITE LINES: Just one of many…

He was wearing the most hideous outfit Max had ever seen: vivid green trousers and scuffled brown shoes paired with an orange-checked shirt that clashed horrendously with his hair. If his clothing could speak, Max knew it would be screaming.

AUTHOR LAUREN OLIVER’S question to CO-AUTHOR H.C. CHESTER

How would you describe our book in 15 words or less?

I would describe it thusly: “A thrilling mystery set in a colorful era of bygone New York City and involving one of the most fables rarities of all time – the shrunken head of the legendary Amazonian chieftan, Ticuna-Piranha!” (I am cognizant of the fact that this description exceed the prescribed length. However, so exceptional is our book – if I may be permitted to say so – that a mere “fifteen words or less” cannot do it justice.)

For more insights see Lauren Oliver’s web site.

Want to meet the authors? Lauren Oliver & H.C. Chester will be visiting local schools (also check for book store appearances in your area) in Atlanta (9/29), Chicago (9/30), Houston (10/1), and San Francisco (10/2 where there’s already a scheduled visit to NAPA STORE/3740 Bel Aire Plaza at 4 p.m.), and they will be appearing at the Texas Book Festival (10/17 & 10/18)

Final tidbit: H.C. Chester is also the alter ego of Harold Schechter, renowned true crime writer and professor of American literature and popular culture at Queens College. And he’s Lauren Oliver’s father. The father-daughter writing team combined their talents – Harold Schechter’s vast knowledge from studying crimes and murders and a lifetime of collecting weird and bizarre artifacts, with Lauren Oliver’s skill at writing compelling and relatable stories for young readers.

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Check the links to other Middle Grade novels over at Shannon Messenger’s Marvelous Middle Grade Monday post.

Posted in Reviews | Tagged Curiosity House: The Shrunken Head, H.C. Chester, Lauren Oliver, Marvelous Middle Grade Monday, MG book reviews, Middle grade | 14 Comments

Middle Grade News

Posted on September 25, 2015 by Greg Pattridge

It’s been a busy month for me as I finish up final edits on four manuscripts. I won’t go into the messy details that got me into this way of writing because I have other news to share.

The annual CYBILS Award (Children’s and Young Adult Bloggers’ Literary Awards) season is upon us and I’ve been chosen as a Round 2 judge in the Middle Grade Fiction category. Nominations in a variety of picture book, MG, and YA categories begin on October 1st and continue through October 15th. Anyone can nominate at http://www.cybils.com/.

After all the nominations are in, the Round 1 judging panel takes over narrowing the list to a select group of books. The Round 2 judges begin there work on January 1st reading every finalist selection (I’m hoping I’ve read a few by then). The award winners are announced on Feb. 14, 2016. I can’t wait!

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About a year ago I was asked to write a short piece for the great folks at CHILDREN’S BOOK INSIDER: WRITE FOR KIDS. I wrote the page, sent it off, and that was that. Many other educators did the same and they have compiled all this advice into an e-book.

You can get your own free copy by visiting http://writeforkids.org/educators and giving them an email address to send the eBook. Here’s the teaser blurb:

The eBook is packed with great advice, specifically geared toward teachers (and ex-teachers) who want to write children’s books. (Not a teacher? No worries — you’ll still find a treasure trove of writing advice that you’ll really enjoy.)

If you don’t get a copy, I can at least share my piece. It’s right there on page 44:

Writing a Children’s book. It’s a journey I knew nothing about five years ago. I had many misconceptions and it took me this long to do things the right way. Here are the roadblocks to avoid that will hopefully bring you success in your journey.

DOING THINGS TOO QUICKLY. I wrote my first story in about three months and thought by the next year I’d be seeing it on the bookshelf. That was the teacher coming out in me; always meeting that next deadline or getting to the next meeting on time. Get it done and check it off. Well, relax. Sit back and write your story. Let it sit for a month. Read it again for first revisions. Let it sit for another month. Revise again. Next get a few people to critique your story. Preferably not teaching mates or family, they’ll be too nice. Revise again and again and again.

YOU THINK YOU KNOW HOW TO WRITE A NOVEL.Take a class, get reading the many fine blogs out there, or check out the great books available that will teach you how, and of course join Children’s Book Insider and SCBWI (Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators).

CRITICISM. You should be ready for this one because as a teacher you are constantly under the radar by students, parents, and administrators. Your writing will be no different. Take each piece of advice and let it simmer for a few days. No one wants you to fail. The people I have met and worked with only served to make me a better writer.

DON’T STOP READING. In fact read more, especially in your chosen genre. You’ll learn many things about plot and character development from the many gifted children’s authors active today.

IT’S NOT A VACATION. Yes, you may have a summer free from grading papers, piling up in-service credits, or planning curriculum, but be prepared for that time to be filled with writing, revising, reading, and networking. Also, after living in the teaching world you may have a hard time adjusting to the fact that writing is a solitary endeavor. You’ll be alone with your thoughts 90% of the time. What will push you forward is your love of writing and connecting with an age group you’ve been around so much. My entire professional adult life has been spent teaching, mentoring, and now writing to the MG group. Creating a great middle grade story is hands down the hardest job I’ve ever had!

Posted in Reading, Resources, Reviews | Tagged 2015 CYBILS, Children's Book Insider, Middle grade, Teacher to Teacher | 12 Comments

MYSTERIES OF COVE: FIRES OF INVENTION for Marvelous Middle Grade Monday

Posted on September 21, 2015 by Greg Pattridge

I’ve come across a few kids, mostly boys, who will read nothing but non-fiction. They have a passion for finding out how things work and are constantly ‘fiddling’ around with whatever object is close by. Maybe this first book in the new MYSTERIES OF COVE trilogy will provide a fiction outlet for their way of thinking. That’s a mechanical dragon on the cover created by two of the main characters in this tale, Trenton and Kallista,

There’s not only a dragon, but Cove is a city built within a mountain when technology destroys the outside world. Life inside forbids creativity or invention since that is what chased them into this new environment to begin with. It’s the future, but the inhabitants of Cove survive by incorporating technology born out of the 1800’s. It’s safer that way.

Enter our young teen heroes and they will stop at nothing to uncover the secrets of Cove set into motion over 100 years in the past. And that means secretly building that dragon. The adventure is fast paced and you will be visualizing this new society as the levels inside the mountain come alive.

Enjoy the ride on this one now so you’ll be ready for the book two where the world outside the Cove will be explored.

PUBLICATION DATE: September 29, 2015 PAGE COUNT: 288

FULL PLOT (From Amazon): Trenton Colman is a creative thirteen-year-old boy with a knack for all things mechanical. But his talents are viewed with suspicion in Cove, a steam-powered city built inside a mountain. In Cove, creativity is a crime and invention is a curse word.

Kallista Babbage is a repair technician and daughter of the notorious Leo Babbage, whose father died in an explosion an event the leaders of Cove point to as an example of the danger of creativity.

Working together, Trenton and Kallista learn that Leo Babbage was developing a secret project before he perished. Following clues he left behind, they begin to assemble a strange machine that is unlikely anything they’ve ever seen before. They soon discover that what they are building may threaten every truth their city is founded on and quite possibly their very lives.

FIVE THINGS TO LIKE ABOUT: FIRES OF INVENTION by J. Scott Savage

It’s rather uncomfortably amusing as Trenton struggles to understand how to talk to girls. He’s so much better at communicating by building things and never knows what to say. Boys nearing that age will immediately understand his frustration.
The ending is one of those endings where you just say “Wow! I like where this is going.” The first story is nicely connected with what is set to happen in the next book.
Trenton and Kallista are different in so many ways, but their love of fixing things brings them closer together. A great pairing of these two as their characters are so well defined. Their interactions are a joy to follow.
Much to be learned with the themes of censorship, oppressive government, and technology influence. It would make for a great classroom discussion with other real societies in our own world’s history.
There’s nothing predictable in this story. I tried many times to guess what would happen next and never did connect with perfection. That alone will keep readers glued.

FAVORITE LINES:

He clenched his hands in his hair. His mother. This would kill her. How many times had she warned him that tinkering would get him into trouble? How many times had she made him sit at the table, writing line after line: We are all gears and cogs in a magnificent machine. When we do our part as it has been prescribed, the machine runs smoothly. When we do things differently, society suffers.

AUTHOR QUOTE:

“One of my favorite experiences is having a boy or girl tell me that my books are the reason they learned a love for reading. .” From J. Scott Savage’s web site.

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Check the links to other Middle Grade novels over at Shannon Messenger’s Marvelous Middle Grade Monday post.

Posted in Reviews | Tagged Fires of Invention, J. Scott Savage, male protagonists, Marvelous Middle Grade Monday, MG book reviews, Middle grade, Mysteries of Cove trilogy | 17 Comments

THE BRAIN SUCKER for Marvelous Middle Grade Monday

Posted on September 14, 2015 by Greg Pattridge

First off I have the winner of last week’s copy of CONFESSIONS OF AN IMAGINARY FRIEND. Congratulations to BIBI BELFORD. She is the MG author of the touching and enjoyable CANNED AND CRUSHED. I’ll get that out to you this week, Bibi. Now on to today’s review…

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When I first saw the cover for this book, I was certain that the pages inside would be a graphic novel full of cartoonish pictures. Wrong. What I found was a science fiction type story set in a contemporary setting with three very compelling teens. First we have our main protagonist, Callum, a boy who has spent his life in a wheelchair. Then there’s Sophie, a wizard at building things, and Jinx, who is trying desperately to control his own bad luck.

THE BRAIN SUCKER was first released in Australia three years ago, followed by Great Britain in 2014, and finally Canada/U.S. in 2015. The book has also been nominated for the 2015 Sakura Medal in Japan (a book award voted on by children and young adults in Japan).

It is a quick read that moves along at a hearty pace as our trio of heroes attempts to stop an evil man from sucking the goodness out of every brain in the city. His secret device has already been successful at turning the nicest people into complete, shall I say, morons.

Reluctant readers will gravitate toward text that has space above and below each line. The story will appeal to 8-12 year-old boys and girls who want to escape on a thrilling adventure to save the world.

PUBLICATION DATE: 2012, 2014, 2015 PAGE COUNT: 221

FULL PLOT :

Evil genius Lester Smythe has a black heart. He’s invented a dangerous brain-sucking machine that removes the goodness from its victims. Now he’s using it to rid the world of all human kindness. But Lester didn’t count on Callum McCullock and his two best friends, engineering whiz Sophie and Jinx Paterson, the world’s unluckiest boy. The trio vow to foil Lester’s evil plan but can they stop him before things go from bad to disastrous?

FIVE THINGS TO LIKE ABOUT: THE BRAIN SUCKER by Glenn Wood

A wheelchair bound main character is a rarity so this was a welcome surprise. Callum has such a great independent attitude, and getting top of the line new wheels for his birthday starts the story off just right.
Most stories with gadgets have a stereotypical boy in the role of someone who creates these wonders. Here though we have, Sophie, a girl who puts forth her tool belt savvy in almost every scene.
A nice subplot is Callum’s relationship with his grandmother who is trying to adopt him after being his guardian.
I loved how this ended in a climatic battle with the evil genius. Bad news at every turn gives a lesson to writers to surprise your readers.
I smell a sequel as there is so much more to learn about these three characters.

FAVORITE LINES:

Callum could barely contain his excitement. If his new chair was as good as he hoped, it would make a big difference in his life. When you’re stuck in a wheelchair, mobility is everything, and the Thunderkit looked like it could conquer mountains, or the very least the steps outside the corner shop.

AUTHOR QUOTE:

“A great number of people assisted in bringing this book to print, so if you don’t like it, they’re to blame.”About Glenn Wood –

Glenn Wood is an award winning copywriter and author who has four published books to his credit. These include his popular autobiographical novels – The Laughing Policeman and Cop Out – and two middle school books The Brain Sucker and The Bully Chip.

For more insights and tongue in cheek humor see Glenn Wood’s web site.

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The U.S./Canada Edition of THE BRAIN SUCKER is now available on AMAZON. I know, don’t judge a book by its cover, but I do like the previous covers better:

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Check the links to other Middle Grade novels over at Shannon Messenger’s Marvelous Middle Grade Monday post.

Posted in Reviews | Tagged Glenn Wood, Marvelous Middle Grade Monday, MG book reviews, Middle grade, The Brain Sucker | 13 Comments

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Always in the Middle…

What Makes A Good Story?

THE THIEF OF ALWAYS for Marvelous Middle Grade Monday

MORE MG SPOOKS AND SCARY READS

Goosebumps series by R.L. Stine

Graveyard Book by Neil Gaiman

A TALE OF DARK AND GRIMM by Adam GIdwitz

ALWAYS OCTOBER for Marvelous Middle Grade Monday

SCARY SCHOOL SERIES for Marvelous Middle Grade Monday

SCARY SCHOOL #1

SCARY SCHOOL #2: MONSTERS ON THE MARCH

SCARY SCHOOL #3: THE NORTHERN FRIGHTS

SCARY SCHOOL #4: ZILLIONS OF ZOMBIES

MOTHMAN’S CURSE for Marvelous Middle Grade Monday

CURIOSITY HOUSE: THE SHRUNKEN HEAD for Marvelous Middle Grade Monday

Middle Grade News

MYSTERIES OF COVE: FIRES OF INVENTION for Marvelous Middle Grade Monday

THE BRAIN SUCKER for Marvelous Middle Grade Monday

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