THE BOY IN THE BALLOON

Posted on December 29, 2024 by Greg Pattridge

Independently published middle grade books rarely get the recognition they deserve. Authors don’t have a big publishing house leading the way and often their book is only available in paperback. But when I have an opening to feature a good one I jump at the chance.

THE BOY IN THE BALLOON is a modern fantasy tale about 11-year-old Ben. He hasn’t had much success living in foster homes. His fourth family is a nice couple who let him have two dogs.

He bonds immediately with his two pets, but eventually his foster parents worry it’s his only interest. The mom’s solution is to get rid of the dogs.

No way will Ben let this happen so he plots his escape. Then something fantastic happens. A balloon with a ship attached (The F.S Quest) arrives at his bedroom window.

Ben and his canine mates jump aboard where magic is the main attraction. The dogs are now able to talk and a guide who looks like a chimpanzee is there to help but often doesn’t stay around for long. He first teaches Ben how to drive the ship balloon before Ben learns he is on a quest.

He can either save a young girl and her brother who need to be rescued from an awful family who has kidnapped them or just sail away leaving them to fend for themselves. Ben chooses to be the hero.

Dangerous beings set out to stop him and certain members of the family where the two kids are trapped don’t care if they bring harm to Ben. It’s not what he expected and thinks he made the wrong decision. Living with foster parents Sam and Myrna was not working, and this is even worse. He bravely comes up with a plan.

The third person narration moves along at a nice pace through 21 chapters. Even if Ben does end up rescuing these two kids you will still wonder what will happen to him. Will he just stay on the balloon forever, go home, or find a new place to live?

THE BOY IN THE BALLOON is an exciting story with an awful antagonist that will have you rooting for Ben to find the life he really wants. Highly recommended to those middle graders who enjoy modern fantasy.

BOOK BIRTHDAY: October 28, 2024 PAGE COUNT: 230

FIVE MORE THINGS TO LIKE ABOUT: THE BOY IN THE BALLOON by D.A. Schaeffer

  1. The colorful, enticing cover is sure to bring more readers closer to giving this one a try. They won’t be disappointed.
  2. The hurt a child goes through when they don’t belong is perfectly depicted here. Ben’s only connection is with his dogs. He needs a human family but hasn’t connected with the right one.
  3. Themes of Friendship and Family get heartfelt attention. This would make a great read-aloud.
  4. Dog lovers will enjoy having these two dogs talk while still keeping their dog like behavior intact.
  5. Since this is Book One of The PURLANDION Chronicles, it had me wondering whether Ben will return as a character or will the balloon refocus on a new adventure with a different protagonist. Ben is someone you will want to spend more time with which also demonstrates the thoughtful way his character was depicted.

Who are you D.A. Schaeffer ?

An author and pastor for 40 years, I have written articles, scripts, study guides, and ten books. My work has received several writing awards and appeared in two anthologies, including A 3rd Helping of Chicken Soup for the Soul. I have loved reading since I was a young child, and writing since I attempted to get my first article published. My favorite authors are CS Lewis, Tim Keller, J.R. Tolkien, Kenneth Grahame, and J.K. Rowling (in no particular order). (Website)

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Be sure to check out all the other great features and reviews on today’s Marvelous Middle Grade Monday!

Posted in MG Fantasy, Middle Grade Book Reviews | Tagged , , , , | 5 Comments

MARVELOUS MIDDLE GRADE MONDAY 12/23/24

Posted on December 23, 2024 by Greg Pattridge

 

ALWAYS in the MIDDLE features My Favorite Holiday Read for 2024.

Valinora Troy reviews the horror tale, Black Gables by Eibhlis Carcione.

Jennifer Rummel is reviewing Keeper of the Lost Cities: Unraveled.

Kasey Giard at The Story Sanctuary reviews COYOTE QUEEN by Jessica Vitalis.

Karen Yingling at Mrs. Yingling Reads has a book to share every day. Check out her MMGM choice for this week and my favorite review from last week: WOLVES AT THE DOOR.

——————————————

Posted in Book Lists, Middle Grade Book Reviews, MMGM Links | Tagged , , , , | Leave a comment

2024 Favorite Holiday Read

Posted on December 22, 2024 by Greg Pattridge

It’s a festive month and what better way to get into the mood than by reading a holiday story. I start this special time by going back to my favorites from past years:

(CLICK ON A BOOK TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT EACH ONE).

After I’ve revisited these classics I start searching for a new holiday book. You’ll find a fresh batch each year on the shelves. I found the perfect choice for 2024.

A familiar plot of two 12-year-old girls finding out they are twins takes a fun, memorable turn in this holiday story. The girls were both adopted at birth by separate families but discover each other at tryouts for a holiday pageant. They look alike but their personalities go separate ways.

Aviva loves to perform by both singing and acting on stage. Much quieter Holly enjoys writing stories like her Grandpa, an established author. Holly also has a bad case of stage fright. The springboard for this plot is discovering they each celebrate the holidays in different ways. Traditional Christmas for one and Hanukah for the other. The girls decide to swap places and experience their twin’s family traditions during the holidays. The dramatic reveal of the other’s existence will hopefully occur at the pageant.

Alternating viewpoints turns out to be the perfect way to experience this story. A lot of unexpected events happen as they try and fool their relatives. Readers who know little about the Jewish or Christian celebrations will grow in their understanding without this being a religious themed story. The twins adjust to their “new” family and in doing so find comfort and a deeper perception of each other. The ending is heartwarming.

LET IT GLOW makes for a great read aloud with your own family.

ABOUT THE AUTHORS

Marissa Meyer is the #1 New York Times-bestselling author of The Lunar Chronicles, Heartless, The Renegades Trilogy, and Instant Karma, as well as the graphic novel duology Wires and Nerve. She holds a BA in Creative Writing from Pacific Lutheran University and a MA in Publishing from Pace University. In addition to writing, Marissa hosts The Happy Writer podcast. She lives near Tacoma, Washington, with her husband and twin daughters.

Joanne Levy has always loved stories. As a kid, she read books and made up stories. As an adult, the stories she makes up are sometimes turned into books. In her non-writing hours, Joanne helps other authors as a virtual assistant. Joanne lives in rural Ontario, Canada…

*******************************

Be sure to check out all the other great features and reviews on today’s Marvelous Middle Grade Monday!

Posted in Middle Grade Book Reviews | Tagged , , , , , , | 6 Comments

FUTURELAND – THE ARCHITECT GAMES

Posted on December 20, 2024 by Greg Pattridge

The FUTURELAND series comes to a close in a satisfying way. First up in 2022 was BATTLE FOR THE PARK followed by THE NIGHTMARE HOUR. No problem if you are jumping into the series for the first time with this finale. THE ARCHITECT GAMES reads fine on its own.

Futureland is a flying amusement park owned by the parents of our young protagonist, Cam Walker. He has a detective type mind that helps solve most problems. The biggest is the family’s continual battle with an evil mob of no-gooders known as The Architects. They want control of Futureland for their own gain and will do anything to make sure that happens.

A final showdown is proposed by the Walkers where the two groups will battle it out in Cairo, Egypt. The government there will create and oversee the competition to ensure a fair result. The winner takes full control of Futureland and Cam will be front and center to make sure the bad guys don’t win.

Cam’s first person narration turned out to be a great way to reveal the plot. Besides traditional text, there are also several cartoon style panels and vlog entries that add even more engagement to the story. Cam’s friends and grandmother (who shows off her jump roping double dutch skills in one of the competitions) all add their own unique personalities that often provide both conflict and tender moments.

Futuristic tech gadgets and Cam’s character arc will appeal to any young readers looking for an adventurous ride. Let’s hope in our own future there are more stories from H.D. Hunter geared toward the middle grade audience.

BOOK BIRTHDAY: NOVEMBER 19, 2024. PAGE COUNT: 336

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Hugh “H. D.” Hunter is a storyteller, teaching artist, and community organizer from Atlanta, Georgia. He’s the author of Torment: A Novella, the Futureland trilogy, and Something Like Right, as well as the winner of several international indie book awards for multicultural fiction.

Hugh is committed to stories about Black kids and their many expansive worlds. Connect with Hugh on Instagram (@hdhunterbooks), or his website: https://hughhdhunter.com 

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

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. All you have to do is 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 the coming Monday.
*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 MG Fantasy, Middle Grade Book Reviews | Tagged , , , , | Leave a comment

ME AND THE MISSOURI MOON

Posted on December 15, 2024 by Greg Pattridge

Two nights ago, on Avalanche Road in Piney Mountain, Missouri, my life changed forever.

The enticing first line of ME AND THE MISSOURI MOON begins the journey of doing the right thing for fifth grader Scarlet Burnes. She is in the car when her daddy hits a bicyclist and sends the rider into a creek. She pleads with him to go back and help, but instead dad gives her a threatening warning. He’s been in and out of jail and doesn’t want a hit and run the reason for having him arrested again. She must keep quiet or else.

Fifth grade begins and Scarlet meets Cricket, a new girl who has a loving family and is a lot more well off than Scarlet, her mom, and little sister. Regardless, they become friends but then Scarlet discovers who the victim in the crash was and she is afraid of losing her new friend. The police begin questioning the students about the accident and Scarlet can’t hold in the truth much longer, but still fears her abusive father. She finds courage after doing a report on Maya Angelou, an activist and world renowned writer.

The book cover is a real draw with the comforting Missouri moon helping Scarlet face another day. The 41 chapters keep the plot moving nicely thanks to the first person narration by Scarlet. You’ll cringe every time her father is in a scene. Scarlet’s thoughts and decisions are realistically portrayed and her friendship with Cricket provide the solid foundation for a memorable read.

ME AND THE MISSOURI MOON is a great addition to any home or school library. A perfect gift for the middle grade reader in your family.

BOOK BIRTHDAY: June 9, 2024 PAGE COUNT: 224

FIVE MORE THINGS TO LIKE ABOUT: ME AND THE MISSOURI MOON by Nancy Stewart

  1. Henry is the bully Scarlet despises. Readers not only find out about his family but also witness his marvelous character arc.
  2. Scarlet’s oral report on Maya Angelou was a highlight. It comes towards the end but will leave you smiling with approval.
  3. The topic of fibbing or telling the truth in various situations will make a great discussion starter in classrooms or at home. Young readers will find inspiration with the choice Scarlet finally makes.
  4. Small time life is realistically portrayed and having a friendship develop between two girls growing up in far different social classes was beautifully done.
  5. The sisterly bond between Scarlet and little Billie. Scarlet protected and looked out for her little sis and doing so provided many heartwarming moments.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR, Nancy Stewart

A graduate of Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri, Nancy taught grade school and was a university professor of education, specializing in Children’s and Young Adult Literature. She was fortunate to have lived in London with her family for a number of years.

Nancy has five published picture books, including One Pelican at a Time, which was featured in a PBS documentary. Her debut YA novel, Beulah Land, received First Place in the 2015 State of Florida Rising Kite Awards, through the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators. The book was a ” nalist in the Forward Indies Book of the Year Awards. It was also one of the most anticipated books at Barnes & Noble in 2017.

A frequent speaker and presenter at writing conferences, Nancy conducts workshops, seminars, and school visits. A member of the Rate Your Story team, she critiques manuscripts for prospective authors. She, her husband, and their (adopted from the Missouri Ozarks) pup, Louie, live in Tampa, Florida.

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

COMMENTS ARE WELCOME BELOW! AND BE SURE TO VISIT ALL THE OTHER BLOGGERS ON TODAY’S MARVELOUS MIDDLE GRADE MONDAY!

Posted in Middle Grade Book Reviews | Tagged , , , , | 8 Comments

A DINOSAUR A DAY

Posted on December 13, 2024 by Greg Pattridge

Before I get to today’s review the winner of my Monday Giveaway of AN ANIMAL A DAY is Danielle Hammelef. Congratulations and enjoy the book.

Now on to the companion book…

I never realized how many types of dinosaurs existed until opening the pages of A DINOSAUR A DAY. Using the same format as AN ANIMAL A DAY, each dinosaur is given their own day with a colorful image of the creature and a paragraph background of its features. Next comes a list of the PERIOD in time it lived, FAMILY classification, DIET, LENGTH, WEIGHT, and FINDS (where in the world fossils have been discovered).

It’s fun to see what dinosaur ended up on your own birthday (mine was the 16 foot, 1,100 lb. LAJASVENATOR). You can view the pages in any order while you soak up the many facts about each dino. They truly were all amazing in their behaviors and appearance.

Most of the pages include 2-3 dinosaurs, but twice each month you’ll find a double page where dinosaurs who share a common characteristic are featured.. The sample below summarizes Roof Lizards, plant eating dinosaurs from the Stegosaurus family. Other pages included groupings like Flying reptiles, Peaceful plant eaters, and Speedy dinosaurs. The images and description allow a quick comparison of each creature.

A DINOSAUR A DAY is a great gift for any young dinosaur enthusiast. The hardback format makes a long lasting treasure that can be enjoyed again and again.

******************************************

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.
Posted in Middle Grade Book Reviews, non fiction | Tagged , , , | 2 Comments

MMGM for December 9, 2024

Posted on December 9, 2024 by Greg Pattridge

 

ALWAYS in the MIDDLE features a review of AN ANIMAL A DAY. You can also enter the giveaway for a chance to win a copy of this hardback book.

Linda Browne has another Bookcase Bizarro with a roundup of her favorite reads this past year.

ET Charles shares Polly Holyoke’s page turning fantasy Skyriders.

Susan Uhlig was fascinated by the historical novel LIGHT AND AIR set in 1935.

Carol Baldwin steps aside for another guest blogger review. Find out what they say about Stephanie Henson’s book, SHARE FAIRE FAMOUS.

Maria Antonia has a post about The Tenth Mistake of Hank Hooperman by Gennifer Choldenko.

Valinora Troy reviews THE HUNT FOR THE GOLDEN SCARAB by M.G. Leonard.

Jennifer Rummel has a review of LET IT GLOW.

Kasey Giard at The Story Sanctuary reviews Wingborn by Marjorie Liu and Grace Kum.

Rosi Hollinbeck reviews THE THINGS WE MISS by Leah Stecher. 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 her MMGM choice for this week and my favorite review from last week: EXIT NOWHERE.

——————————————

Posted in Book Lists, Middle Grade Book Reviews, MMGM Links | Tagged , , | 2 Comments

AN ANIMAL A DAY (Plus a Giveaway)

Posted on December 8, 2024 by Greg Pattridge

An Animal A Day is a great idea to interest readers into learning more about animals. Beginning with January 1st, each day features a different animal. A colorful illustration is accompanied by a paragraph detailing some of its characteristics. A list of answers to the SCIENTIFIC NAME, ANIMAL GROUP, LENGTH/WEIGHT, DIET, LOCATION, and ENDANGERED STATUS are also included.

Like many readers of this hardback table-top book, I had to go right to my birthday to see the animal landing on my day. It was one I had never heard of: A TAWNY FROGMOUTH (a tough nocturnal bird that looks like an owl and can be found in Australia). Next I went through the book in order and found many familiar animals but also several more that were new to me. Ever heard of a TARDIGRADE, MARCAY, CARACAL, OR A BILBY? Fascinating animals that don’t live in my part of the world.

Each month also has sections where 6 days are grouped under a common theme. A few examples include Deep Sea Mysteries, Desert Survival, and Tree Living. The book ends with a closer looks at In Danger animals and ones that have had successful conservation efforts.

AN ANIMAL A DAY is the absolute must gift for the animal lover in your family. Keep reading to see how you can win a copy.

U.S. BOOK BIRTHDAY: November 5, 2024 PAGE COUNT: 224

FIVE MORE WAYS TO USE AN ANIMAL A DAY in the Classroom or at Home

  1. On the first of each month, have your early middle grade reader choose one animal to research in more depth. They can report back the last week of the month with an oral or written report of what they found.
  2. Think of another broad topic that would fit into the format of one per day. Historical figures, Outer space/the universe, or Insects are some examples. Create your own 365 Day or 12 Month version of AN ANIMAL A DAY.
  3. Choose one of the endangered animals and make a poster to inform others how important it is to save this animal and what efforts are already being taken to do so.
  4. Interview one of the animals with questions about their world and how they survive.
  5. Create a card game with the animals from AN ANIMAL A DAY. Make up the rules and try out your game with a small group.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Miranda Smith is a long-standing editor of information books for both children and adults. She has a particular interest in the field of natural history and has written books and articles for children on the subject.

GIVEAWAY

I have one copy to giveaway for a lucky U.S. resident. All you have to do is tell me your favorite animal in the comments and you are in. Entries will be accepted through Wednesday, December, 11th. Good luck.

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Be sure to check out all the other great features and reviews on today’s Marvelous Middle Grade Monday!

Posted in Middle Grade Book Reviews, non fiction | Tagged , , , , , | 11 Comments

PRICELESS FACTS ABOUT MONEY

Posted on December 6, 2024 by Greg Pattridge

Did you know that by folding a dollar bill just right you can turn George Washington into a mushroom? I tried and it works… although I’m glad it was only temporary. This new fun guide for middle grade readers is a journey into the economics of what makes this world thrive on money.

Our guides are Mellody and John who grew up to be quite the financial experts. Frequent dialog and colorful pictures are included along the way. First up is a timeline of how money got its start beginning with the first bank deposit 3.9 million years ago. Even adults would learn something from these pages.

Other great sections take a look at Nicknames for Money, World Currency Symbols, and a closer view of the $100 bill. A real eye opener is the prices of goods in 1970 compared to now. Intermixed are the fun, back and forth exchanges between Mellody and John who finally agree to work together when they are older.

PRICELESS FACTS ABOUT MONEY will supply the future leader in your family with the motivation to learn even more. A perfect gift during the holiday season or anytime.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR/ILLUSTRATOR

Mellody Hobson is co-CEO and president of Ariel Investments, the first African American–owned mutual fund company in the United States. She is Lead Independent Director of Starbucks Corporation and serves on the board of directors at JPMorgan Chase & Co. Princeton University, her alma mater, is building a new residential college in her name—the first to be named after a Black woman. Time magazine listed her as one of the 100 Most Influential People. She is married to filmmaker George Lucas, and this book was inspired by their young daughter. Mellody Hobson splits her time between Chicago and San Francisco.

Caitlin Stevens is an art teacher and award-winning illustrator whose work has been featured in American Illustration, among other publications. She graduated with a BA in illustration from California College of the Arts. Priceless Facts about Money is her children’s book debut. Caitlin Stevens lives in San Francisco.

********************************************

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

MMGM for December 2, 2024

Posted on December 2, 2024 by Greg Pattridge

 

ALWAYS in the MIDDLE features a review of UNBOUND by Ryan Johnson and Jared Branahl.

Patricia Tilton @ Children’s Books Heal shares a favorite MG  travel series:  Amanda in Scotland: The Standing Stones by Darlene Foster.

Valinora Troy reviews SKYFLEET: The March of the Mutabugs. In a separate post you can also read about the good news for her own book, THE LUCKY DIAMOND.

Jennifer Rummel has a timely and useful list of Holiday Gift Ideas featuring Middle Grade Books.

Kasey Giard at The Story Sanctuary reviews Take It From the Top by Claire Swinarski.

Rebecca M. Douglass has a review of Nothing Else But Miracles, by Kate Albus.

Carol Baldwin welcomes back teen reviewer Elliott Kurta and his review of UNSINKABLE CAYENNE.

Susan Uhlig enjoyed the tale of two Sophies in Tree. Table. Book. by Lois Lowry. 

Rosi Hollinbeck reviews and has a GIVEAWAY of THE FLICKER by H.E Edgmon. Rosi also shares 3 links of interest for her writing friends.

Maria Antonia shares an update on a post from back in 2019! The Best Ever Christmas Pageant by Barbara Robinson

Karen Yingling at Mrs. Yingling Reads has an MMGM book to share every day. Check out her MMGM choice for this week and my favorite review from last week: A WORLD OF DOGS.

——————————————

Posted in Book Lists, Middle Grade Book Reviews, MMGM Links | Tagged , , | 2 Comments