A WHISPER OF CURSES

Posted on June 30, 2024 by Greg Pattridge

The second book in the series follows the first story from 2022: A TASTE OF MAGIC. A question always comes to mind as to whether you can enjoy A WHISPER OF CURSES without having read the first? In this case you sure can as this is a continuing but separate story.

Kyana Turner is a witch and fresh off saving Park Row Magic Academy in book 1, she now faces a new challenge.

The Academy construction is underway, and Kyana is on school break. While looking for something to fill her time, she is grabbed by a spirit known as an Available. She escapes but now she can’t stop her uncontrollable laughing and crying.

Her friend, Ashley, thinks the cure is going to a camp for magical learning where the famous Dr. Minzey wil be there. He is the top magic scientist and should know how to fix the curse.

After they arrive at the secret camp the portal that got them there collapses trapping everyone attending inside this other world. Ash thinks the Availables are behind it all, but chooses to keep quiet and trust Dr. Minzy. That thinking doesn’t last long and together with her friends, they try and save everyone.

Kyana and Ashley narrate the story in dual perspectives through 34 chapters. The plot’s mystery, tension, and magic build right up to an exciting and page turning climatic ending. The door is left open for a third book, and the series is perfect for fans of magical schools.

BOOK BIRTHDAY: July 9, 2024 PAGE COUNT: 304

FIVE MORE THINGS TO LIKE ABOUT: A WHISPER OF CURSES by J. Elle

  1. Russ is another young characterand is doing a podcast of the camp’s events. He provides a few laughs along the way and his growing friendship with the girls leads to much stronger possibilities in solving the mystery.
  2. The creative magic will have readers wishing the spells were actually real. Fun stuff.
  3. Each character had a unique ability. Kyana knows about potions while Ash has more knowledge about the Availables. Together with Russ, whose specialties are charms and social media, they make a memorable team.
  4. Baking was the backdrop for book one but not here. Even so, food plays an interesting role in both the magic and the changing offerings at the food hall.
  5. The diverse cast of characters were all great as was the growing changes in their personalities. Friendship helps anyone especially tween characters.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

J. ELLE is the New York Times bestselling author of young adult and middle-grade fantasy fiction and a 2022 NAACP Image Award Nominee for Outstanding Literary Work for Youth and Teens. Her work is translated and distributed in over sixteen countries. The former educator credits her nomadic lifestyle and humble inner-city beginnings as inspiration for her novels. When she’s not writing, Elle can be found on the hunt for desserts without chocolate, looking for any excuse to get dressed up, and road-tripping her way across the country with her family of six plus four pets in tow.

Learn more at www.authorjelle.com.

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

AMBER BROWN IS NOT A CRAYON –The Graphic Novel

Posted on June 28, 2024 by Greg Pattridge

The first Paula Danziger book I read was THE CAT ATE MY GYM SUIT. It quickly became one of my favorites. When I finally became a teacher it was the first book I shared with students. Copies of other Danziger classics like Can you Sue Your Parents for Malpractice? and This Place Has No Atmosphere also found a home on my classroom bookshelf.

The Amber Brown series leaned more toward younger chapter book readers, but many students would cling to their copies from earlier grades. Amber Brown was that special. Twelve books in the series confirmed her popularity.

Out now is a new graphic novel format for the first book, AMBER BROWN IS NOT A CRAYON. It’s the touching story of losing a best friend when Amber must come to grips when her pal Justin and his family plan on moving to another state. This illustrated version is colorful and boldly show the emotions of each character. It also stays true to the original plot.

While not a book I would normally review given it is for chapter book readers up to about age 10, I couldn’t resist as I have never featured a Paula Danzinger book.

There’s no better way to get kids reading than with Amber Brown. She will also push them forward to the other more middle grade titles in the Danziger collection. Although Paula passed away many years ago, her love of writing will be forever infused to young audiences for generations to come.

BOOK BIRTHDAY: May 21, 2024 PAGE COUNT: 112

About Paula Danziger:

Born in Washington, D.C., and raised in New York, Paula Danziger knew since second grade that she wanted to be a writer. Beginning her career as a teacher, Danziger taught at the junior high, high school, college levels. She received her Masters Degree in reading and during that time she wrote her first bestselling novel, The Cat Ate My Gymsuit. She returned to teaching, but the success of her book encouraged her to become a full-time writer. It was non-stop for Danziger since then. Among her titles are: the enormously popular Amber Brown books as well as Remember Me To Harold Square, The Divorce Express, and Can You Sue Your Parents For Malpractice?

Danziger received numerous honors, including: Parent’s Choice Awards, International Reading Association – Children’s Book Council Awards, a IRA-CBC Children’s Choice Award and many nominations for state reading and library association awards.

Known as a flamboyantly funny and deeply honest writer and speaker, Paula Danziger knew how to relate to young readers at their level. She was vital, funny, and compassionate. She knew how kids felt, what made them laugh, what they wore, collected, read, and played with. From collecting novelty toys that would make any teacher cringe, to wearing jangly earrings, funky glasses and shoes covered with beads and sequins, Paula Danziger had a direct line into kids’ hearts and funnybones. She will be missed always.

In Paula’s memory, The Amber Brown Fund has been established to bring authors and illustrators to schools and libraries which otherwise could not afford them. Donations may be sent to The Amber Brown Fund/ SCBWI Museum of Children’s Books, 8271 Beverly Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90048.

About Victoria Ying:

Raised in California, Victoria Ying is an author and illustrator of beloved children’s books. She realized that she had a true eye for detail when she fell in loves with comic books when she was a teenager. This interest in comics led her to a successful career in animation. Her credits include Tangled, Wreck it Ralph, Frozen, Paperman, Big Hero 6, and Moana.

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It’s almost time for another Marvelous Middle Grade Monday. Won’t you join us? It’s here I share highlights from other individuals blogging about middle grade books. Many of the posts will have reviews, interviews, and tips on writing. Take a look at PAST MMGM POSTS.

It’s easy to get a spot in the lineup. 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 Graphic Novels, Reviews | Tagged , , | 2 Comments

MMGM for June 24, 2024

Posted on June 24, 2024 by Greg Pattridge

 

ALWAYS in the MIDDLE has a review of THE COOKIE CRUMBLES by Tracy Badua and Alechia Dow.

Continental Drifter, a graphic novel, by Kathy MacLeod tugged on Susan Uhlig’s heartstrings. The story is set in Thailand and Maine.

Michelle Isenhoff has The War that Saved My Life, by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley.

Natalie Aguirre at Literary Rambles has a guest post by M.R. Fournet and a giveaway of her MG horror Brick Dust and Bones or Darkness and Demon Song, winner’s choice. 

Jennifer Bohnhoff shares 4 MG books that won or were finalists for Western Writers of America’s Spur award. Jennifer also has copies to give away of all four of the books mentioned in the post.

Rebecca Douglass has a review of Chasing Helicity, by Ginger Zee.

Carol Baldwin features Meg Goes to America: A Middle Grade Review by Guest Teen Blogger, Pearl Burningham.

Sue Heavenrich has a MG nonfiction written through the lens of an Indigenous knowledge carrier: THE BEE MOTHER.

Valinora Troy is back this week with a review of Dungeon Runners: Hero Trial by Kieran Larwood.

Jennifer Rummell @ YA Book Nerd is talking about Perfect Revenge from Jessica Burhart.

Brenda at Log Cabin Library hosts the blog tour stop for SPELLBINDERS: BREAK THE GAME by Andrew Auseon with a Review and Giveaway!

Rosi Hollinbeck is back this week with a double review: FREAK THE MIGHTY & THE BIG DARK. Included is a giveaway. Rosi also shares 3 links of interest for her writing friends and a fun summary from a successful tour of baseball stadiums.

Karen Yingling at Mrs. Yingling Reads has a MG book to share every day. Be sure to check out her MMGM selection for this week along with last Friday’s review of RATTY.

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(Make sure you put MMGM or Marvelous Middle Grade Monday in the subject line so it gets sorted accurately–and please don’t forget to say what book you’re featuring)
Thanks for spreading the middle grade love and for being a part of this awesome tradition begun by Shannon Messenger and carried on here at ALWAYS in the MIDDLE! (CLICK HERE FOR PAST MMGM POSTS)
*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 Book Lists, Middle Grade Book Reviews, MMGM Links | Tagged , , | 1 Comment

THE COOKIE CRUMBLES

Posted on June 23, 2024 by Greg Pattridge

Not your ordinary baking competition when the recipe includes an attempted murder mixed into the plot. THE COOKIE CRUMBLES will have readers on the edge of their seats figuring out whodunit among the seven suspects.

Laila and Lucy have been best friends since kindergarten. Laila’s passion is cooking while Lucy hopes to become a famous news writer and broadcaster. They both have a chance to attend the prestigious Sunderland Boarding School when they start high school in a year. Laila must win the cookie bake-off competition while Lucy has to impress the board with her journalism skills to get the coveted scholarship.

One of the judges is the world renowned Chef Remi who unfortunately gags on one of Laila’s cookie creations and ends up in the hospital with a life threatening diagnosis. The competition continues with accusations sent one way and the other. A bad storm has also closed roads leaving the group isolated from the outside world.

Both girls investigate the attempted murder with some surprising results. Their friendship is tested but also becomes stronger as the pages turn toward the exciting end. Mystery lovers and those who like a competitive bake off will be rewarded with a the perfect recipe for an engaging story.

BOOK BIRTHDAY: June 11, 2024 PAGE COUNT: 320

FIVE MORE THINGS TO LIKE ABOUT: THE COOKIE CRUMBLES by Tracy Badua & Alechia Dow

  1. The story unfolds with alternating viewpoints from Laila and Lucy. This allows a much deeper view into their friendship and each of their strengths and weaknesses.
  2. The clues keep coming about who the guilty party might be and it had me changing my guess many times. That’s the way a mystery should be written.
  3. You have to love a first line like this: Generally speaking, cookies don’t kill people.
  4. Chef Remi is one of the most obnoxious characters, but he also might remind you of some real life TV chefs. His comments to the young bakers provided many cringe worthy reactions from the kids.
  5. Well thought out character arcs for all the characters, not just Laila and Lucy.

ABOUT THE AUTHORS

Tracy Badua is an award-winning Filipino American author of books about young people with sunny hearts in a sometimes stormy world. By day, she is an attorney who works in national housing policy and programs, and by night, she squeezes in writing, family time, and bites of her secret candy stash. She lives in San Diego, California, with her family.

Alechia Dow is a former pastry chef, a librarian, and an award-winning author of acclaimed young adult sci-fi fantasies, several short anthology pieces, and magical (sometimes mysterious) middle grade stories. When not writing, you can find her having epic dance parties with her family, baking, reading, taking teeny adventures, and exploring her local food scene.

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Posted in Middle Grade Book Reviews, New Release | Tagged , , , | 11 Comments

MISCOMMUNICAMP!

Posted on June 21, 2024 by Greg Pattridge

It’s summer camp season and the CAMP HILLSIDE series is a perfect choice to get you in the mood.

MISCOMMUNICAMP! is the second story, following HURRICAMP! from 2022. All the characters are back and if you haven’t read the first book, no problem as Miscomunicamp! stands well on its own.

Almost twleve-year-old Laura “Noodle” Newman narrates the story. Noodle is known for her successful in-camp radio broadcasts. They don’t always of as planned but play a necessary part in the plot. She’s also happy to reconnect with friends from last year’s camp.

All the traditional camp like experiences are here including living in a cabin, meals, campfires, hiking, and fun physical activities in the water. Conflict arises when best friend Aries decides to put all of her efforts into a camp performance of the musical Peter Pan, leaving Noodle on her own.

You’ll find lots of laughs along the way in addition to the drama. Full page photographic like illustrations are scattered throughout and show the emotions of each scene through the girls’ faces. MISCOMMUNICAMP! is recommended for girls, especially those who ever dreamed of or have gone to summer camp. It even brought back memories for me during my camp experiences as a kid.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

In third grade, Steph Katzovi announced that she was going to be author when she grew up. Realizing that she might want to explore other career options first, Steph got her bachelor’s degree from Binghamton University before attending Brooklyn Law School. She spent the bulk of her 15+ year career at Deloitte as a speechwriter and strategic communications consultant. When the opportunity arose to raise her children and focus more fully on creative writing, Steph decided it was time to take her “When I Grow Up” essay from third grade a bit more seriously. If she’s not busy writing at her desk in New York City, Steph is a sports and exercise enthusiast. She also enjoys playing guitar and piano with her two sons, going out on date nights with her husband, and reading. Preferably poolside. Find her at www.StephKatzovi.com.

If you are curious why Steph decided to set her books at a summer camp, here’s why…

One of the main themes I explore in my books is adolescent independence.  The setting of sleepaway camp gives my characters a less supervised, but still controlled place to tackle the challenges of growing up. Counselors and peers act as the support network instead of parents, teachers, or relatives. In other words, the characters experience life without the safety net of “home.” By giving the characters a different lens for responding to various coming-of-age situations, it, of course, leads to plenty of drama and comedy!

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It’s almost time for another Marvelous Middle Grade Monday. Won’t you join us? It’s here I share highlights from other individuals blogging about middle grade books. Many of the posts will have reviews, interviews, and tips on writing. Take a look at PAST MMGM POSTS.

It’s easy to get a spot in the lineup. 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 Middle Grade Book Reviews | Tagged , , | 5 Comments

MMGM for June 17, 2024

Posted on June 17, 2024 by Greg Pattridge

 

ALWAYS in the MIDDLE has a review of THE GIRL WHO KEPT THE CASTLE by Ryan Graudin.

Susan Uhlig loved revisiting characters and meeting new ones in the sequel Coyote Lost and Found.

Natalie Aguirre at Literary Rambles has an interview with debut author Leah Stecher and a giveaway of her MG The Things We Miss.

Jennifer Bohnhoff shares a mg graphic novel about Mamie Phipps Clark, whose work helped stop school segregation. She’ll also be giving a copy away to someone who comments on the blog.

Carol Baldwin features the THE GROUNDWORLD HEROES: A Chapter Book Review by Guest Blogger, Janelle Ekpo.

Jennifer Rummel reviews Medusa over at YA BOOK NERD.

Maria Antonia shares a post about Dust by Dusti Bowling.

Patricia Tilton @ Children’s Books Heal reviews Legends of Lotus Island: Into the Shadow Mist (book 2) by Christina Soontornvat. It is perfect for kids moving from chapter books into middle grade books.

Max @ COMPLETELY FULL BOOKSHELF shares a list of books that are gentle with readers’ feelings.

Karen Yingling at Mrs. Yingling Reads has a MMGM book to share every day. Be sure to check out her MMGM selection for this week along with last Friday’s review of MID-AIR.

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(Make sure you put MMGM or Marvelous Middle Grade Monday in the subject line so it gets sorted accurately–and please don’t forget to say what book you’re featuring)
Thanks for spreading the middle grade love and for being a part of this awesome tradition begun by Shannon Messenger and carried on here at ALWAYS in the MIDDLE! (CLICK HERE FOR PAST MMGM POSTS)
*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 Book Lists, Middle Grade Book Reviews, MMGM Links | Tagged , , | 4 Comments

THE GIRL WHO KEPT THE CASTLE

Posted on June 16, 2024 by Greg Pattridge

Wizard West was dead for nearly an entire day before he noticed.

That intriguing first line is a perfect jump start to this fantasy tale. The main character is Faye, a young maid and the groundskeeper daughter. She has been chosen to tell the wizard that he is indeed a ghost and has no magical powers left.

He responds by trying to transform Faye into a cat with disastrous results. The news gets even worse because Faye’s home, the enchanted castle of Celurdur, will fall apart soon if it’s foundation spells can’t be renewed.

Wizard West reluctantly accepts his death and hosts a competition to pick his successor. It doesn’t go well, and it’s up to Faye to work mostly behind the scenes to keep things running smoothly.

A bigger problem surfaces when she discovers a servant of the evil Shadow Queen has sabotaged the contest that will not only destroy the castle but the entire kingdom of Solum. Faye tests her bravery by doing anything to stop the imposter and save her home.

Faye is an endearing lead and must serve under the long standing rule that girls are never to become apprentices to the land’s four wizards (North, South, East, and the ghostly West). She proves everyone wrong with her leadership prowess throughout the story.

THE GIRL WHO KEPT THE CASTLE stands tall as the first book in a to-be-continued adventure. The plot wraps up nicely leaving hints that there may be future stories. Readers will anxiously be waiting its’ arrival.

Fantasy lovers have a new friend set in an enchanting, magical setting.

BOOK BIRTHDAY: June 18, 2024 PAGE COUNT: 336

FIVE MORE THINGS TO LIKE ABOUT: THE GIRL WHO KEPT THE CASTLE by Ryan Graudin

  1. A great supporting cast including a talking cat. This feline has a few things on her mind and makes for a much needed friend for Faye.
  2. Kind, caring, and brave make Faye one of the best lead female, fantasy characters in recent memory.
  3. A dragon is always a draw and this story has a good one to entertain readers.
  4. The magic is often connected to food which provide many surprises.
  5. The potential apprentices vying for the chance to become the new wizard were surprisingly different and not all were your typical boy characters.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Ryan Graudin is the award-winning author of eight novels, including the Carnegie nominated Wolf By Wolf duology, Invictus, The Walled City and the The World Between Blinks series. She resides near Charleston, South Carolina with her husband and two daughters. You can find her online at www.ryangraudin.com.

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COMMENTS ARE WELCOME BELOW!

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Posted in MG Fantasy, Middle Grade Book Reviews, New Release | Tagged , , , , | 7 Comments

THE CHAMBERED NAUTILUS

Posted on June 14, 2024 by Greg Pattridge

The SUMMER of L.U.C.K. trilogy comes to a close in a satisfying way with THE CHAMBERED NAUTILUS. I previously featured the first two books, SUMMER of L.U.C.K. and READY or NOT:

The final story is again set at the summer camp where Darby, Naz, and Justin first met. Their friendship continues to evolve as tensions mount. They are drifting apart with new interests and friends.

Chapters unfold utilizing the different viewpoints of the three characters. The title refers to a new ride at the carnival next to the camp. Readers also learn about a real chambered nautilus– a spiral-shaped cephalopod, part of the squid and octopus family. A fascinating creature and a challenging attraction.

When the ghostly Leroy Usher is trapped and asks for their help the meaning of friendship takes on a whole new course. This theme will be quite familiar to many middle grade kids. While Mr. Usher saved and guided Darby, Naz, and Justin in the first two books, it is now up to them to save him.

While The Chambered Nautilus stands well on its own, you will be motivated to go back and enjoy the full series. The reward will be a tale full of adventure, magic, and the power of never giving up. A great summer read.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR


Laura Segal Stegman is the author of Summer of L.U.C.K. (her debut), sequel Ready or Not (both Five-Star Readers’ Favorite Award winners), and The Chambered Nautilus, third in Young Dragons Press’s middle grade trilogy. She has been featured at the Orange County Children’s Book Festival, San Diego Writers Festival, and LitFest in the Dena, and she shares her author journey with students at virtual and in-person visits to schools and libraries. She also serves as a judge for Society of Young Inklings, Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI), and other writer competitions. As a publicity consultant, she owns Laura Segal Stegman Public Relations, LLC, which has represented a wide-ranging client list of businesses and arts organizations. Her PR Tips for Authors workshop, a step-by-step guide to building a digital author media kit, has been presented by The Writing Barn, SCBWI, and elsewhere. Non-fiction writing credits include collaboration on the travel book Only in New York. Her feature stories and guest posts have appeared in the Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Magazine, Westways, and School Library Journal’s Teen Librarian Toolbox, among others. She is based in Los Angeles. www.LauraStegman.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 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

MMGM for June 10, 2024

Posted on June 10, 2024 by Greg Pattridge

 

ALWAYS in the MIDDLE has a review of THE THINGS WE MISS by Leah Stecher.

Maria Antonia gives us a look at Just Like Click by Sandy Grubb.

Sue Heavenrich has a wonderful NF book for young MG readers (the 7-10 crowd): Thomas Jefferson’s Battle for Science: Bias, Truth, and a Mighty Moose! over at Archimedes Notebook.

Max @ COMPLETELY FULL BOOKSHELF recommends Aquicorn Cove by K. O’Neill.

Michelle Isenhoff reviews Roller Girl, by Veronica Jameison.

Brenda @ Log Cabin Library shares her thoughts on THE COOKIE CRUMBLES by Tracy Badua and Alechia Dow.

Kasey Girard @ The Story Sanctuary reviews Camp Prodigy by Caroline Palmer.

Karen Yingling at Mrs. Yingling Reads has an MMGM book to share every day. Be sure to check out her MMGM selection for this week along with last Thursday’s review of A PLACE TO SHINE.

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(Make sure you put MMGM or Marvelous Middle Grade Monday in the subject line so it gets sorted accurately–and please don’t forget to say what book you’re featuring)
Thanks for spreading the middle grade love and for being a part of this awesome tradition begun by Shannon Messenger and carried on here at ALWAYS in the MIDDLE! (CLICK HERE FOR PAST MMGM POSTS)
*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 Book Lists, Middle Grade Book Reviews, MMGM Links | Tagged , , | 1 Comment

THE THINGS WE MISS

Posted on June 9, 2024 by Greg Pattridge

7th Grade. Just those two words can conjure up memories both good and bad. For J.P. Green they are mostly bad.

She never feels comfortable in the clothes she wears, is embarrassed by her body shape, and seems to always say the wrong thing or nothing at all. She has one good friend in Kevin as they have grown up together.

J.P.’s escape from reality happens when she finds a strange door in her neighbor’s tree house. It’s a door painted on the wall until J.P. approaches and it turns into a real door. Stepping through it she soon finds that a pathway lets her skip the next 3 days, never remembering what happened. Repeat as necessary. Which is way too often.

The escape is perfect as no one knows she is gone. But mentally she can’t tell you what happened during her away time. There is no memory of PE fitness tests, oral reports, facing Miranda-her nemesis and personal bully, or conversations with Mom or Grandpa.

The first person narration is an emotional journey with heartbreaking scenes throughout. A strong voice taking us along for the journey. You’ll keep reading and hope better days are ahead for J.P. after she realizes being gone for so many important events are making her situation worse.

Issues of mental health, body shaming, and loss of loved ones will be familiar to many young readers. THE THINGS WE MISS is a dramatic, often hard to put down narrative that would make a great story for discussion.

BOOK BIRTHDAY: May 7, 2024 PAGE COUNT: 288

FIVE MORE THINGS TO LIKE ABOUT: THE THINGS WE MISS by Leah Stecher

  1. Pop Pop was a memorable adult character, always there for J.P. His courageous bout with cancer was a tough reality to deal with for his granddaughter.
  2. The realization that coping skills come about by being present in one’s life.
  3. Kevin is the kind of friend everyone should have. He knows when to say the right thing and his connection with Leah was heartwarming…even with a few bumps along the way.
  4. The realities portrayed about life in 7th grade will help others dealing with some of the same issues.
  5. J.P. and her mom’s relationship had many tough moments. It was nice to see it come around in a more positive way.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Leah Stecher was born and raised in Southern California and currently lives in coastal Maine. By day, she edits policy papers for an environmental nonprofit; by night, she writes middle grade fiction. She has strong opinions on tea blends, chocolate chip cookie recipes, and action movies. (Author Website)

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COMMENTS ARE WELCOME BELOW!

BE SURE TO VISIT ALL THE OTHER BLOGGERS ON TODAY’S MARVELOUS MIDDLE GRADE MONDAY!

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