HELENA FLINN AND THE FLICKERING REALMS

Posted on January 11, 2026 by Greg Pattridge

I’m always a bit reluctant to jump into a series with the second book without having read the first. Not to worry as I had no problem settling into the character and plot of HELENA FLINN AND THE FLICKERING REALMS.

Reading the back cover description was the first assurance that I would not be confused:

Nearly a year has passed since Helena and the Nightmare Squad defeated the ancient evil haunting Vienna. Life has never been the same: she now slips between her world and the goblin city beneath it, helping her friends in the dream factories and finally knowing what it feels like to belong.

In this story Helena is now 12, and she is beginning to see some disturbing trends in the dream world along with strange events unfolding in the goblin city. She has special nocturnal energy (NE) that can take her into other’s dreams so with the help of her goblin friend Drizzle and her human friends (the Nightmare Squad) she sets out to solve this mystery. If she can’t find a solution then the end will come to the goblin and waking world of Vienna.

Helena is a shy girl and getting to know her was a highlight. As the plot unfolds she becomes more confident with being a leader and asking questions when needed. Her parents are supportive and along with younger sister Maddie, Helena’s family makes her life better. They only appear in the plot when needed, but it’s always a positive when they do.

The majority of the story takes place under the city of Vienna where the world building marvelously unfolds. Visiting there is usually in the middle of the night when Helena can meet up with Drizzle. I thought my sleep hours were bad!

The fantasy elements and scientific aspects of dreams were expertly woven together. That union provides a unique reading experience sure to please upper middle grade readers (and us older ones, too) who like a carefully plotted fantasy. The exciting climatic ending scenes are worth your time getting there. There is also a cliff hanger at the end that will encourage you look for Book 3 later this year when the adventure continues.

BOOK BIRTHDAY: December 5, 2025 PAGES: 295

If you would prefer to begin at the start of the series with Helena Flinn and the Secrets of the Night you can take a closer look here.

FIVE MORE THINGS TO LIKE ABOUT: HELENA FLINN AND THE FLICKERING REALMS by Michael Sokolar

  1. Minor characters are often forgotten but not with darling little Noxi. You’ll wish for one of your own even though that is not possible given her fantasy background..
  2. Included are several full page illustrations that elevate the story even more. You’ll be looking at them again they are so well crafted.
  3. There’s no bickering or back stabbing among Helena’s friends. They are kind and supportive to each other.
  4. The unique and creative magical system.
  5. Excellent back pages including excerpts from Helena’s grandfather’s Journal of Kornelius Flinn and the Shilwani Guide of Curious Contraptions. You could even read these first before diving into the main story.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

I’m a person wearing many hats – I’m a digital storyteller, writer, director, producer, organizer, strategic thinker, creative, maker, and most importantly, father of two lovely girls that mean the life to me.

With a background in Software Engineering, I’ve always had a passion for writing. After earning my Bachelor’s Degree, I transitioned into the film industry, starting as a production assistant. Over the years, I eventually became a director for children’s television and commercials.

In 2014, I founded Little Lights Studio, a film and storytelling studio dedicated to producing authentic brand films, emotional and evocative commercials, and story-driven campaigns. Our projects often focus on sustainability and always have a human touch.

For most of my life, I’ve been crafting stories. Now, with the forthcoming release of my debut middle-grade novel in 2024, I proudly embrace the title of author. This novel is the first in a trilogy, marking the beginning of an exciting new challenge for me. My passion lies in exploring underdog tales that celebrate friendship and the journey to find one’s place in the world. Fantasy is my favorite genre, and I relish every moment of the writing process, from world-building to outlining and writing itself.

At Little Lights Studio, we thrive on creating projects that connect with people on an emotional level, and I bring this same passion to my writing. Whether through film or literature, my goal is to tell stories that inspire and resonate. (Michael’s Author Website)

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LOVE WARS: CLASH OF THE PARENTS, A TRUE DIVORCE STORY

Posted on January 9, 2026 by Greg Pattridge

Children should never be in the middle of a vicious battle between parents during a messy divorce. Unfortunately it happens too often.

The author writes of his own heartache and struggles inside a family where love is no more. Fourteen chapters take readers though the heartbreaking misery Matthew endures beginning in first grade and continuing up to sixth grade. As an adult it’s Matthew who brings peace and closure to his divorced family as readers will find out through a much appreciated epilogue. He is the true hero.

The story is honestly told and his passion about Star Wars and Luke Skywalker give him strength to face reality. Readers who are in or have gone through a parents’ divorce will find comfort that they are not alone.

Given the content, upper middle grade and anyone in their teens are the targeted audience. LOVE WARS: CLASH OF THE PARENTS, A TRUE DIVORCE STORY also include many stunning black and white illustrations that bring even more impact to the story. A big thank you to the author for having the courage to write this memoir.

BOOK BIRTHDAY:October 6, 2025 PAGES: 370

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Matthew A. Tower is an author, art director, audiobook narrator, and entrepreneur. He first saw Star Wars in theaters at age three. Love Wars: Clash of the Parents, A True Divorce Story is his debut work of literature.Previously, he was founder and CEO of Versus Books, and published more than 50 gaming strategy guides for hits like The Legend of Zelda, selling over 5 million copies.

ABOUT THE ILLUSTRATOR

Tsuneo Sanda is an award-winning artist who lives in Japan. He is celebrated for his Star Wars, Star Trek, and Disney illustrations. George Lucas owns many of his original paintings. Explore his creations at SandaWorld.com.

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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.

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.

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Marvelous Middle Grade Monday for 1/5/2026

Posted on January 5, 2026 by Greg Pattridge

 

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

••ALWAYS in the MIDDLE is where I have a review of CRACKING TIME by David Meyer.

••Brenda @ Log Cabin Library reviews Secrets of the Broken House by Taryn Souders.

••Natalie Aguirre @ Literary Rambles is participating in the New Year New You Giveaway Hop with lots of newly released middle grade books.

••Jennifer Rummel @ YA Book Nerd reviews Outside by Jennifer L Holm.

••Valinora Troy starts the year off with a review of The Candleman by Caroline Fisher.

••Maria Antonia has a post about Alias Anna by Susan Hood with Greg Dawson.

••Kasey Giard @ The Story Sanctuary has a review of A Year Without Home by V. T. Bidania.

••Karen Yingling at Mrs. Yingling Reads has a book to share every day. Check out Karen’s MMGM choice for today, X Marks the Haunt, and all her reviews from this past week.

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Cracking Time

Posted on January 4, 2026 by Greg Pattridge

Been on your phone or computer a bit too much? So has young Andy Wagner. Totally focused on his phone he falls into a raging river.

Fortunately he is saved, but Andy’s parents have had enough of his obsession. They enroll him in Camp Digi-Detox, a several weeks long, overnight program that supposedly will change his attitude toward constant use of technology.

Upon his arrival at the camp he meets others in his same predicament. Roommate Felix is a tech genius. Trish was vying to be the next great online face who influences the masses. Finally there is Dora who is a whiz at puzzles and sees connections quicker than anyone. They are all miserable since their tech devices have been locked away while they are at camp.

They each must now spend 12 hours a day transcribing hand written documents into a data base. Boredom and exhaustion soon set in. To make things better they hope to recover their valuable phones. That is if they can find where the lady in charge has hidden them.

What they uncover instead is a conspiracy. This camp is a hoax of sorts with the owner more intent on changing the past. A buried ship, valuable artifacts, and life threatening results face the group.

Cracking Time is told in multiple viewpoints with chapters rotating among the 4 kids and the owner of the property. It’s a great way to reveal this intriguing plot through the different characters.

There are many surprises along the way which you can happily discover on your own. The final third of the book will have you flipping the pages to find out what eventually happens. There’s a touch of fantasy and some heart stopping scenes. All will appeal to middle grade readers, especially those in the 10-13 age group.

Cracking Time is the first book in The Uncrackables mystery-adventure series.

BOOK BIRTHDAY: November 11, 2025 PAGES: 301

FIVE MORE THINGS TO LIKE ABOUT: CRACKING TIME by David Meyer

  1. Andy has that kid like way of acting before thinking, but his bravery was a positive and memorable character trait.
  2. I love a mystery where you are constantly trying to decide what is going on. You get more than enough challenges figuring this one out.
  3. Young readers will like the fact that parents were not a major part of the plot. They are kept in the background for most of the story.
  4. The totally believable way these kids use their technology smarts to outwit the adults.
  5. Going back in time to change the future would be a nice debate topic for adults and middle grade readers.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

David Meyer is an author, marble-maze builder, sock puppet aficionado, wannabe cartoonist, a creator of some things and breaker of others, a yogi and martial artist, and the owner of the reddest hair you’ve ever seen.

He’s a man of few apps, but many books. Creatively, he prefers to work in circles, following “the pull” rather than pushing. He’s tried—and abandoned—nearly every productivity tool known to man. He likes new ideas, old stories, and the big picture. He dislikes small talk, busyness, and infinite scrolling.

He’s married to the wife of his youth, who knows his worst, yet loves him best. He’s also father to what just happens to be his two favorite children of all time.

(For more about David and his Creations visit his Website)

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Marvelous Middle Grade Monday for 12/29/2025

Posted on December 29, 2025 by Greg Pattridge

 

HAPPY NEW YEAR to all of our bloggers and visitors!

ALWAYS in the MIDDLE will be back next week with the first of my 2026 reviews. Today’s almost new year lineup includes:

••Jennifer Rummel @ YA Book Nerd has a listing of her 5 star middle grade reads.

••Isabelle Knight reviews Valinora Troy’s upcoming MG fantasy, Lianna and the Hombit.

••Karen Yingling at Mrs. Yingling Reads has a book to share every day. Check out Karen’s MMGM choice for today: Roman Soldiers: Discover the World of the Ancient Roman Army and all her reviews from this past week.

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Marvelous Middle Grade Monday for 12/22/2025

Posted on December 22, 2025 by Greg Pattridge

 

Happy Holidays to all of our bloggers and visitors!

Hope to see you again next week for our last post of 2025 and in 2026.

••ALWAYS in the MIDDLE is where I review THE PICASSO CURSE by Dan Gutman.

••Jennifer Rummel @ YA Book Nerd has The Taylors, the prequel to the YA novels.

••Valinora Troy reviews Quill and the Last Generation by C.M. Lewis.

••Rosi Hollinbeck has a review of HOW TO SAVE A LIBRARY by Colleen Nelson. Rosi also shares 3 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 choice for today and all her reviews from this past week.

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THE PICASSO CURSE

Posted on December 21, 2025 by Greg Pattridge

Dan Gutman’s latest middle grade novel is a unique one. It’s not your typical beginning, middle, and end story.

The plot begins with 12-year-old Edwin Hodge’s first person narration. He’s at a flea market with his parents when he spots a Kobe Bryant basketball poster. After bargaining with the owner, he buys the framed picture for $10. End of story.? Far from it!

Once at home he finds an original Pablo Picasso drawing hidden in the frame. Excitement and pure panic follow him the rest of the way. First though there is a timeout as another narrator takes us through a timeline when the real Mona Lisa was stolen. It’s a fascinating read but I’m not sure if young readers will react the same way while reading these three background chapters. They may be anxious to get back to the main story.

Edwin returns for the rest of the way. On advice from his teacher he and his parents drive to Chicago to get the work appraised from an art expert. Turns out work is authentic and could be worth millions!

Life as Edwin knows it immediately changes. Kids at school treat him differently and he soon becomes a world famous social media superstar. Worse though are people tapping his phone, breaking into his house, and threatening him. This includes adults and a bully at school. What will Edwin finally do with his prized possession?

We may never know as the last page leaves us on a cliffhanger. I would have preferred to have Edwin’s decision right then. The more I thought about it though this provides a great opportunity for discussion based around WHAT WOULD YOU DO? Overall THE PICASSO CURSE is a fantastic blend of fact and fiction done in an appealing way.

BOOK BIRTHDAY: Sept. 2, 2025. PAGE COUNT: 192

FIVE MORE THINGS TO LIKE ABOUT: THE PICASSO CURSE BY DAN GUTMAN

  1. The back pages detail the fact and fiction part of the story. It’s a great must read that begins with “Everything in this book is true, except for the stuff I made up.”
  2. You got to love Edwin’s parents. They are supportive and let Edwin make the final choice. Bravo to them.
  3. The book begs to be read out loud with frequent stops for discussion. I handed my copy over to a fifth grade teacher and you could hear the kids debating at lunch time.
  4. You get an inside look at the anxiety caused by a decision you must make. So true for most things going on in one’s life that take some thinking before deciding.
  5. Another choice for that child in your life where reading is at the bottom of their list. The fast pace and Edwin’s kid like worries will appeal to not only reluctant readers but also for those who love to read.

ALL ABOUT THE AUTHOR

New York Times best-selling and award-winning author Dan Gutman has written more than 190 books for readers from kindergarten through middle school. Dan’s My Weird School series includes 100+ titles, and has sold more than 35 million copies globally over the past 20 years. Dan also is the author of the best-selling Genius Files series, the Baseball Card Adventure series, and many more.

Dan’s books have been named Junior Library Guild Selections and Bank Street College’s Best Children’s Books of the Year, and have been awarded numerous state book awards, including: The California Young Reader Medal, the Massachusetts Children’s Book Award, and the Iowa Children’s Choice Award, among others. When he’s not writing books, Dan loves to ride his bike, play pickleball, throw Frisbees, and explore New York City where he lives with his wife Nina. To find out more, follow Dan on Facebook, X, and Instagram.

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WOLF GIRL: THE GREAT ESCAPE

Posted on December 19, 2025 by Greg Pattridge

The international best selling Wolf Girl series continues to find a new audience in America with Book 2, The Great Escape. Released here in paperback on September 16, the story follows BOOK 1, INTO THE WILD, which I enthusiastically reviewed this past June.

You could read this one on its’ own but with now 14 books in the series you won’t want to miss any of the past events in the upturned life of young Gwen. If you do jump in here first you are in for a exciting adventure, perfect for new MG readers.

THE GREAT ESCAPE takes off with Gwen being transported to a remote jail, now separated from her family of dogs, a wolf, and an eagle. She hasn’t seen her human family in years. Gwen is locked in a cell but can see other kids from her barred window working in a rock quarry.

She eventually connects with one of them, a kind boy named Rupert. Escape can’t happen without Gwen’s pack finding her again. Of course they do and the exciting journey will have you flipping the pages to find out what happens next.

Filled with excellent black and white illustrations, they add to the reading experience with text that is spaced and sized for younger readers. With another cliff hanging ending, I’ll be anxiously awaiting Book 3 when it debuts in the states this March.

The WOLF GIRL books are a nice match for reluctant readers or any middle grader looking for a courageous, friendship story.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Anh Do is a comedian, artist, and one of the highest-selling Australian authors of all time. He is a prolific author with an incredible thirty-seven books to his name—and counting! Along with the “WeirDo” books, some of the most popular Anh Do books include The Happiest Refugee, for which Do won the Australian Independent Booksellers Book of the Year in 2011, and the “Wolf Girl” kids’ adventure series. (Check out his author/entertainer web site)

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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.

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.
Posted in Middle Grade Book Reviews | Tagged , | 1 Comment

Marvelous Middle Grade Monday for 12/15/2025

Posted on December 15, 2025 by Greg Pattridge

 

Enjoy all these great posts from our line-up this week!

••ALWAYS in the MIDDLE is where I review THE SNOWMAN CODE by Simon Stephenson.

••Linda Browne reviews her top MG/ YA picks for the past year.

••Natalie Aguirre @ Literary Rambles is participating in the Dashing December Giveaway Hop with all middle grade choices, mainly from the last half of 2025.

••Jemima Pett has the last book in the Kiwi cat series, KIWI’S CHRISTMAS TAIL.

••Carol Baldwin welcomes back young reviewer Isabelle Knight with her thoughts on SOLEDAD and the Curse of the Phoenix.

••ET Charles has a one question interview with Jennifer Chambliss Bertman and a review of her mystery BOOK SCAVENGER.

••Jenni Enzor is featuring Winterfrost by Michelle Houts.

••Valinora Troy is back this week with The Moon Seeker by Dee Barragry.

••Jennifer Rummel @ YA Book Nerd has a nonfiction fiction book about graphic novel artist Raina Telgemeier, FACING FEELINGS.

••Maria Antonio is also back this week with The One and Only Family by Katherine Applegate.

••Rosi Hollinbeck has a review and GIVEAWAY of INCREDIBLE PENELOPE. Rosi also shares 3 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 choice for today and all her reviews from this past week.

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THE SNOWMAN CODE

Posted on December 14, 2025 by Greg Pattridge

What initially looks like a holiday story turns out to be an anytime of the year heartwarming friendship tale between a snowman and a girl.

Ten-year-old Blessing has not been to school in several months due to the mistreatment she gets from a trio of bullies. That’s just the beginning of her problems.

Blessing’s Mom is not doing well and is dealing with a deep sadness. She spend long periods in bed and often doesn’t go to work. Mom especially hates the winter as it makes her even sadder.

Unfortunately, the city is having an unusually long winter and it just may last forever. If her mother doesn’t get better, Blessing will have to live with another family, separated from the person she loves for potentially a very long time.

Blessing does not know what to do to make things better. Just in time she meets Albert, a 600 year old snowman who offers to help solve her problems. Albert would also like Blessing’s help in finding his long lost love- a Snowlady friend, Clementine. Blessing and Albert work together, following the important Snowman Code to hopefully find success and bring winter to an end.

Set in London, the third person narration flows along smoothly. The code Albert must follow begins with always helping a child in need. Others include not responding to anyone unless they ask the same question six times and celebrating the end of winter with a huge party.

Frequent illustrations add to the reading experience:


The story has many humorous moments as Albert has very different assumptions about life and the world we live in. There are also some sad moments when you realize if it warms up Albert will melt and be gone for good. THE SNOWMAN CODE is a touching tribute to friendship and solving one’s problems with the help of others. So grab a cup of hot cocoa and enjoy this one with your emerging middle grade reader.

BOOK BIRTHDAY: Dec. 16, 2025. PAGES: 256

FIVE MORE THINGS TO LIKE ABOUT: THE SNOWMAN CODE by Simon Stephenson

  1. The personalities of both Albert and Blessing were created with perfection. They each have their different ways but their friendship grows throughout their ordeal.
  2. Blessing faces her problems in such a kid like way. She is always looking for solutions even if it means breaking a rule or two. Such a fun character.
  3. The plot covers sad events like bullying, depression, and separation from a parent but does so in an understanding way. It never overwhelms the story and keeps readers focused on the fun relationship between Blessing and Albert.
  4. An animated version was constantly on my mind while reading this sweet story. There isn’t one yet but the story sure has the potential, a sign of great story telling.
  5. The way the bullies were dealt with included an Abominable Snowman. Silly but effective, the scene added to the fantasy element of the story.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR/ILLUSTRATOR

Simon Stephenson originally trained as a doctor and worked in London and Scotland. He previously wrote Let Not the Waves of the Sea, a memoir about the loss of his brother in the Indian Ocean tsunami. It won Best First Book at the Scottish Book Awards, was a Book of the Week on BBC Radio 4, and a Daily Telegraph Book of the Year. His first novel, Set My Heart to Five, has been optioned by Working Title Films. He currently lives in Los Angeles, where he works as a screenwriter. He originated and wrote the film The Electrical Life of Louis Wain and wrote on Pixar’s Luca. The Snowman Code is Simon’s first book for young readers. Visit him online at SimonStephenson.com.

Reggie Brown is an artist and children’s book illustrator. He has a background incorporate graphic design, and is now focusing on illustrating for children. His multicultural upbringing as an African American and Filipino man is what drives his true passion of illustrating children’s stories and bringing underrepresented voices alive through his art. Reggie is a member of the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators and lives in San Diego, California, where he enjoys eating burritos, watching Star Wars, and spending time with his wife.

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Posted in MG Fantasy, Middle Grade Book Reviews, New Release | Tagged , , , | 10 Comments