ELEPHANT TOUCH

Posted on September 15, 2024 by Greg Pattridge

The engaging story of loss and recovery is told through the eyes Quinn, a young girl who recently lost her mother. The tale will touch your heart, especially if you are an animal lover.

The setting is Thailand where Quinn and her aunt are volunteering at an animal sanctuary. Aunt Lizzie hopes the experience will be healing, but initially Quinn feels even worse when discovering many of the elephants were abused.

Then something special happens as Quinn develops a connection with an adult elephant who seems to understand Quinn’s feeling of loss. A bigger challenge awaits when an orphaned baby elephant arrives at the sanctuary. Quinn knows that she and the elephant are both grieving over a similar tragedy in their lives. Quinn tries to find the courage to make a difference before this young animal dies.

The 28 chapters are a real page turner. Humor helps break the tension of whether the ending will bring resolution. The journey is also emotional with the backdrop of healing after a traumatic event. You’ll understand Asian Elephants in a much deeper way. Elephant Touch will for sure touch many with one of the best debuts this year.

BOOK BIRTHDAY: September 17, 2024 PAGE COUNT: 160

FIVE MORE THINGS TO LIKE ABOUT: ELEPHANT TOUCH by Susan R. Greenway

  1. Hunter is the only other kid participant at the camp. He and Quinn become fast friends and their friendship continues to strengthen as the story nears the end. An innocent and realistic portrayal.
  2. How Quinn comes to understand her feelings of losing her mother is brought forth in perfect fashion.
  3. Not to be missed: The Afterword by the author follows the story and relays to readers what they can do to save and protect elephants.
  4. Quinn’s up and down emotions are evident through the voice the author developed with care and realism.
  5. The short chapters make this novel a good one to read-aloud. Not only do you learn about elephant behavior but discussion time would be a natural way to understand the feelings of losing someone special.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Susan R. Greenway is a former elementary school teacher and reading specialist. She is a longtime member of SCBWI (Society of Children’s Books Writers and Illustrators) and a graduate of the University of Washington Writing for Children Program. Elephant Touch is her debut novel, inspired by an extraordinary experience she had with an elephant in Thailand. 

Susan is an outdoor and dog enthusiast and lives with her husband and their sweet dog, Willow, in Washington. 



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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 , , , , | 11 Comments

THE HAUNTING OF LAKE LUCY

Posted on September 13, 2024 by Greg Pattridge

I kept seeing this title in my long list of books to read and review. It finally reached the top and the wait was worth every minute.

THE HAUNTING OF LAKE LUCY is a novel in verse. Jayce and his twin sister, Evie, are on vacation with their parents at Lake Lucy in Virginia. There’s an empty house next door and Jayce believes the ghost who has been haunting his dreams lives there. He writes a letter to the ghost that his sister delivers to the mailbox out front…and the ghost writes back!

You’ll be guessing and guessing again with each passing chapter as to what is going on with all this strangeness. The poetry style writing flows well and helps build tension throughout:

Secondary characters like Austin, Blas, and Mr. Crunch serve as an important support for the story. Those who like a bit of creepiness written in verse, THE HAUNTING OF LAKE LUCY is the perfect companion for the upcoming season of spook.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Sandy’s poetry has appeared in children’s, university, national, and international journals. Her children’s work is included in Chicken Soup for the Child’s Soul, Highlights for Children, and poetry anthology Words and Other Wild Things.

She is a member of the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators and the author of two children’s novels and two poetry collections. Before the pandemic, she served as the literature judge for her local PTA Reflections Art Program.

She and her husband have two grown children and live in Virginia with their four rescue pets. (From Sandy’s Author Website)

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

It’s easy to get a spot in the lineup. 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, Novels in Verse | Tagged , , | 4 Comments

WEIRDO

Posted on September 8, 2024 by Greg Pattridge

Suicide is not a topic touched upon or featured in many Middle Grade books. This new graphic novel explores it in a believable way.

“Weirdo” is none other than Tony Weaver, Jr. who is eleven-years-old and beginning 7th grade at a new school. His love of comic books, anime, and video games, along with carrying around an action figure in his pocket quickly has him targeted by bullies. They are relentless.

At first Tony tries to conform and fit in but soon the hurt of not being accepted is too much. Attempted suicide is Tony’s answer to bringing an end to his problems.

I DON’T WANT TO DIE.. I JUST WANT TO FEEL OK. BUT I CAN’T DO THAT HERE.

MAYBE IF I COULD GET TO GRAMMY WE COULD WATCH CARTOONS AGAIN.

The entire scene of attempted suicide is not depicted on the pages. Tony only tells us it didn’t work. His cousin discovers what he tried to do and alerts the parents. The final two-thirds of the story is a fantastic lead into Tony becoming the hero of his own story. He enrolls in a new school and finds friends who encourage him to become a member of the literature club. Tony also begins seeing a clinical psychologist.

Tony the Weirdo faces one more challenge, but this time he takes a different approach and readers will be applauding his bravery. The entire plot mirrors what the author experienced in his life. Tony Weaver, Jr. is also a hero for sharing his story and giving struggling kids hope.

BOOK BIRTHDAY: September 17, 2024 PAGE COUNT: 320

FIVE MORE THINGS TO LIKE ABOUT: WEIRDO by Tony Weaver, Jr.

  1. The illustrations are excellent and the color often mimics Tony’s mood with brighter colors when things are going better for Tony and darker ones during the tough times.
  2. Tony’s new friends are a fun, memorable group. They each have their own interests which are celebrated by their peers.
  3. A story that could have been a downer turns into an uplifting journey.
  4. The parents. They didn’t initially fully understand what was going with their son but their actions redeemed them in a great way.
  5. Don’t miss the author’s letter in the final pages. He gives advice for kids like him to be extraordinary.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR & ILLUSTRATORS

Tony Weaver, Jr. is an award winning writer and educator creating diverse stories that make young people feel seen and valued. After seeing the impact that media stereotypes had on students in his community, Tony embarked on a journey to create new media narratives that would challenge the status quo.

Jes and CIn Wibowo are Chinese Indonesian twins born in Jakarta. As Third Culture Kids, they spent their early childhood years moving back and forth between the US and Indonesia. The two both graduated with a BFA and eventually an MFA in sequential arts from Savannah College of Art and Design.

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Whoops! Never try and get ahead when you are short of time. I accidentally deleted this week’s MMGM. Here are the links in case you missed them on Monday:

ALWAYS in the MIDDLE: WEIRDO (On this page)

COMPLETELY FULL BOOKSHELF: TEA DRAGON FESTIVAL

STEPHANIE ROBINSON/FAIRDAY’S BLOG: HATTIE BIG SKY

PATRICIA TILTON:THE ONE AND ONLY FAMILY

FAITH HOUGH: THE SECRET LANGUAGE OF BIRDS

ROSI HOLLINBECK: TREE. TABLE. BOOK.

REBECCA M. DOUGLASS: HALF MOON SUMMER

BRENDA/LOG CABIN LIBRARY: QUANTUM INTERSTELLAR SPORT’S LEAGUE

MRS. YINGLING: POPCORN

Posted in Graphic Novels, Middle Grade Book Reviews | Tagged , , , , , | 11 Comments

FRANKINSCHOOL-Gone to the Dogs!

Posted on September 6, 2024 by Greg Pattridge

The FRANKINSCHOOL series adds a third book as the three main characters return to take on a new mystery.. Previously reviewed here were Books 1 and 2, MONSTERMATCH and THE CUPSNAKE ESCAPE.

Each book reads fine on its own but starting at the beginning will allow you to experience how the characters and story line evolve. Fun illustrations and larger print give each story more of a chapter book feel, but each would be a perfect bridge to longer MG novels.

In Gone to the Dogs! Luisa, Drake, Fred are working on a research project. The topic is “World-Changing Ideas” with a slight twist. They have to use the old way of doing research with card catalogs and finding those books in the library. Fred is cranky about the whole process and would rather use the internet.

Fred tries to get out of the project by turning back into his alternate identity, FrankinSchool. Using his previous strategy of writing a poem doesn’t work. Instead it is Luisa’s poem that does the trick as the boys turn into Frankinschool and Snake-ula. From here they meet up again with Frank the Custodian ghost who is helping another ghost deal with his reading problem. Drake’s report on having children read to service dogs seems to be the ticket for success.

The less than 120 pages are a quick read and having the library as as part of a mansion makes for an ideal setting. Geared toward ages 7-11, FRANKINSCHOOL-Gone to the Dogs will have you anxious to see more in this series.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR/ILLUSTRATOR

Caryn Rivadeneira Caryn Rivadeneira is the author of seven books–for both children and adults. Her most recent titles include Grit and Grace: Heroic Women of the Bible and The Story of Noah’s Ark (both SparkHouse Family). Caryn serves on the worship staff at Elmhurst Christian Reformed Church and is a proud member of INK: A Creative Collective and the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators. Caryn lives in the near-west suburbs of Chicago with her husband, three kids, and one rescued pit bull.

Visit Caryn at carynrivadeneira.com. Find her on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and Snapchat.

DANI JONES is an illustrator, artist, comics creator, and writer.

She is the author and illustrator of MONSTERS VS. KITTENS and it’s follow-up DINOSAURS VS. PUPPIES, children’s books published by Stan Lee’s Kids Universe. She is also the illustrator of the New York Times best-selling POPULARMMOS graphic novel series from HarperCollins.

Dani has produced and self-published several projects, including the all-ages sci-fi webcomic MY SISTER THE FREAK, a graphic novel adaptation of the classic book LITTLE WOMEN, and the Halloween short story FROSTY THE GOURDMAN. She is currently updating the webcomic EVERYTHING IS GOING TO BE OK.

Her work has been used in a variety of media including picture books, comics, graphic novels, magazines, mobile apps, and educational publishing. She is represented in the children’s industry by Tugeau 2 Artist Representatives.

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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 , , , | 1 Comment

MMGM for September 2, 2024

Posted on September 2, 2024 by Greg Pattridge

 

ALWAYS in the MIDDLE features a review of GRETA by J.S. Lemon.

Jennifer Bohnhoff has One Big Open Sky, a beautiful verse novel about former slaves moving west to settle Nebraska. There is also a GIVEAWAY.

Natalie Aguirre at Literary Rambles interviews Natalie Lloyd and offers a giveaway of her MG The Witching Wind. Note: This post won’t be active until this Wednesday, Sept 4th.

Brenda at LOG CABIN LIBRARY reviews Matt Sprouts and the Day Nora Ate the Sun by Matt Eicheldinger.

Carol Baldwin shares a review by teen guest blogger, Georgie Barltett. She gives us her thoughts on an upper MG/ YA title: BUTTERFLY INK! There is also a GIVEAWAY .

Jennifer Rummel interviews James Ponti about his upcoming book, THE SHERLOCK SOCIETY.

Faith Hough reviews Light and Air, by Mindy Nichols Wendell.

Kasey Giard at The Story Sanctuary has a review of The Sherlock Society by James Ponti.

Karen Yingling at Mrs. Yingling Reads has an MMGM book to share every day. Check out her MMGM choice for today and my favorite review from last week with RIPLEY: FIRE STATION FIVE.

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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

GRETA

Posted on September 1, 2024 by Greg Pattridge

Middle school is a transition most of us go through. Leaving the kid like world of a familiar learning environment and entering a new place can be a challenge.

It’s especially true for Greta Goodwin. Not only is middle school starting, but she also hasn’t lost the feeling she is still a little kid not ready for this new place. Added to her anxieties is an upcoming move to a new home with her parents and an irritating younger brother. Much too far from her best friend. Lotti.

When school begins she gains the attention of a boy. The first time this has ever happened. She and Lotti attend their first middle school party but soon are separated and she’s alone with Derek. He immediately has his hands all over her and Greta finally breaks away. It’s a terrible event that is handled appropriately for upper middle grade readers.

Greta can’t tell anyone the full story of what happened, even her best friend. Then the story takes an unexpected fantasy turn. The trauma of the assault changes Greta’s outward physical appearance. She likes having this colorful protective shield even though adults seemed horrified.

The middle school scene is accurately portrayed as is the strong friendship of these two girls. I would have liked to see Greta engage in an honest talk with a trusted adult but the unusual plot takes a different direction. Her feelings are displayed through the dreamlike change with her body. I hope for readers this will be an important starting point for discussion in our real world about what is acceptable in relationships.

Greta is a very moving and hard to put down story.

BOOK BIRTHDAY: September 10, 2024 PAGE COUNT: 208

FIVE MORE THINGS TO LIKE ABOUT: GRETA by J.S. Lemon

  1. There is an excellent back pages piece written by Dr. Alycia Davis, clinical psychologist. She outlines what to do in the aftermath of another person touching you inappropriately.
  2. This unique way to deal with a traumatic event will confuse some but inspire many.
  3. A great springboard for kids, parents, and teachers to discuss what is appropriate in middle school relationships. Disrespect should not be ignored.
  4. I smiled at Greta’s verbal tantrum to classmates who had labeled her best friend in a harmful way.
  5. The author hit a bullseye with her portrayal of middle school friendships, both new an old.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

J. S. Lemon grew up outside of Philadelphia, and chances are, so did you. She spent most of her childhood worrying about hair removal and trying to make people laugh. Even though middle school was quite a while ago, it still sits right beneath her skin. Lemon was the first girl, on both sides of her family, to graduate college, and she did so while wearing an “I’m with stupid” T-shirt under her gown. She has been an animal psychic, a mime coach, and a spokesperson for the Crocs Evening Wear Collection—all without leaving her home. Most days you can find her gossiping with her dog and writing until her thumbs ache. Her hobbies include doodling, listening to smooth ‘70s music, and dodging invitations to go hiking. She does a pretty good Cher impression.

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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 , , , | 6 Comments

HEEBIE JEEBIES

Posted on August 30, 2024 by Greg Pattridge

A perfect title for this fun, engaging ghost story. The graphic format is also the right choice given the plot:

Blue and their best friend Herschel are definitely not the coolest kids around, but when a group of popular bullies tell our main characters that their problems can be solved by finding the treasure buried beneath the school… well, Blue, Herschel and one annoyed night janitor have to investigate their school after dark!

What nightmares guard the treasure? The kind to give our heroes one bad case of the Heebie Jeebies!

The plot moves along at a fast pace Conflict happens not only with the ghosts but with a trio of bullies from the school. There’s a deadly reason why no one has been successful in finding the treasure, but the endearing Blue has some ideas to change that for their group. It’s a page turner and one I read in a few hours.

The cover gives you a hint at what to expect with the artwork. It’s colorful and show the emotions for each character. Here’s another sample from inside the story…

HEEBIE JEEBIES is scheduled to be released on Sept. 17, but you can Pre-Order your copy today. You’ll have it just in time for the spooky time of the year.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR/ILLUSTRATOR

Writer, Matthew Erman (He/Him)

Matthew Erman is a writer from Columbus, Ohio and the creator of the critically acclaimed series Long Lost (Scout Comics) and Witchblood (Vault Comics) with artist Lisa Sterle. Since then, he’s been the creator of the sci-fi emotional apocalypse series Good Luck (BOOM!), the splatter punk comedy with Shelby Criswell, Terminal Punks (Mad Cave Studios), and the hillbilly cosmic horror GOLGOTHA MOTOR MOUNTAIN (IDW) the original graphic novels BONDING (Vault Comics) and Mariko Between Worlds (Mad Cave Studios), Matthew makes his Dark Horse Comics debut with LOVING, OHIO in Summer of 2024.

HEEBIE JEEBIES is Matthew’s third book for younger readers, his past stories include Care Bears: Unlock the Magic (IDW) and The Dark Crystal: Journey into the Mondo Leviadin (Boom Box!). He is looking to create more stories that he can share with his son that are inclusive, fun, and hopeful. Matthew hopes to inspire future creators to pursue their passions.

What inspired you to write Heebie Jeebies?

Heebie Jeebies was inspired by my time working as a night janitor at a Montessori school — I was down on my luck and looking for anything to give my life the nudge in the right direction it needed. Dreaming of a hidden treasure underneath the school kept me going and cleaning  in the hopes that I’d discover a magical fix-it to all my problems. And while there weren’t riches beyond imagination, I did find my imagination and this story blossomed from that experience. In the end the magic treasure I eventually found was not the one I was looking for, but the one I needed and now after all these years, I get to share the treasure I found with everyone.

Artist, Shelby Criswell (They/Them)

Shelby Criswell (they/them) is a comic artist, illustrator, and graphic designer in San Antonio, Texas. You might know them from their work on TERMINAL PUNKS and BE GAY, DO COMICS or their debut graphic novel QUEER AS ALL GET OUT. They love going on bike tours, painting outside, and playing the banjo. Shelby ain’t afraid of no ghost!

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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, Middle Grade Book Reviews | Tagged , , , | Leave a comment

MMGM for AUGUST 26, 2024

Posted on August 26, 2024 by Greg Pattridge

 

ALWAYS in the MIDDLE had planned to feature another book, but its release was delayed. I moved up a review scheduled for next month with HISTORY SMASHERS: THE SALEM WITCH TRIALS by Kate Messner.

Natalie Aguirre at Literary Rambles shares a guest post by A.Y. Chan with a giveaway of her MG The Legendary Mo Seto.

Brenda at LOG CABIN LIBRARY reviews The Long Way Around by Anne Nesbet, an author she has enjoyed in past books.

Carol Baldwin has a review and GIVEAWAY of ME AND THE MISSOURI MOON by Nancy Stewart.

Faith Hough is back again this week with a review of The Tenth Mistake of Hank Hooperman, by Gennifer Choldenko.

Patricia Tilton @ Children’s Books Heal reviews  Meg Goes to America by Katy Hammel.

Kasey Giard at The Story Sanctuary has a review of Not Nothing by Gayle Forman.

Rosi Hollinbeck reviews A KID’S GUIDE TO PLANTS OF THE PACIFIC NORTHWEST: with Cool Facts, Activities and Recipes by Phillipa Joly. Rosi also shares 3 links of interest for her writing friends.

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 with Give Me Something Good To Eat and other creepy tales.

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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 , , | 3 Comments

HISTORY SMASHERS-SALEM WITCH TRIALS

Posted on August 25, 2024 by Greg Pattridge

The popular series returns with it’s 9th title. Here’s what to expect:

In 1692, a few paranoid Puritans accused their neighbors of being witches sending the town flying off the (broomstick) handle. Before it was all over, dozens of women in Salem, Massachusetts were executed—burned at the stake. RIGHT?

WRONG! There was some serious witch worry, but no one in the United States was put on a pyre (though the truth isn’t much better). And women weren’t the only ones caught in crossfire…maybe don’t read this one aloud to your dog.

What really happened? The truth is historians aren’t totally sure. But it is certain that religious beliefs, a changing world, and a few super nosy neighbors collided to spell disaster for one New England town. No joke!

My Take: A great way to learn about history, especially with the uneasy times surrounding the Salem Witch Trials. Each event is described in paragraph and cartoon style illustrations. Be ready to dig deep into this historic event. The author does a great job with confusing letters or documents by first sharing them, then following up with an “In other words…” piece that explains the meaning in an understandable way.

The reasons for what caused the Salem Witch Trials can be debated with all the necessary facts presented here. In the back pages there is a nice summary timeline along with a list of books, websites, museums, and historical sites.

The Salem Witch Trials may be something young readers don’t know much about. With History Smashers they’ll learn of a unique time in our history in an enticing way. Other titles in the series include:

EARTH DAY AND THE ENVIRONMENT

CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS AND THE TAINO PEOPLE

THE UNDERGROUND RAILROAD

PLAGUES AND PANDEMICS

THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION

THE TITANIC

PEARL HARBOR

THE WOMEN’S RIGHT TO VOTE

THE MAYFLOWER

See them all right here!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Kate Messner is passionately curious and writes books for kids who wonder, too. Her award-winning titles include picture books like Over and Under the Snow and How to Write a Story; novels like All the Answers, Breakout, and Chirp; engaging nonfiction like The Next President and Tracking Pythons; the Fergus and Zeke easy reader series, the popular Ranger in Time chapter books, and the new History Smashers illustrated nonfiction series, aimed at unraveling historical myths and sharing hidden truths. Learn more at her website, www.katemessner.com

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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, non fiction | Tagged , , | 6 Comments

SECRET SKY – THE YOUNG UNIVERSE

Posted on August 23, 2024 by Greg Pattridge

Billions of years ago, on one of the first-ever Earths, a boy named Skylar will walk away from his home for the last time. Beset by dreams where he flies through the early universe as a sentient starship, he will never be safe if his secret gets out. His only chance to stay alive is to fall in with the same knights who destroyed his peasant village and live under the shadow of the king who sent them to exterminate Skylar’s people.

But powerful dreams have a way of shaping reality, and with each midnight flight across the cosmos, Skylar finds his world—and himself—changing. Magic is another thing which should only exist in dreams, yet Skylar has it—one more secret that needs keeping.

Against a waking life full of monsters, warriors, swords, sorcery, treasure, and ancient mysteries, Skylar has only one key for putting all the pieces together: the Secret Sky that haunts his sleeping mind.

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At 474 pages this intriguing tale is not your typical middle grade book. The 33 chapters are narrated by a mysterious person who challenges the reader directly and provides a few smiles and laughs along the way. His frequent insights often begin a chapter or occur on short breaks from relaying the story like this one from chapter 6:

That said, I may have noticed a few things about you– embarrassing things that would be impolite to point out. But since we're in this together, and I need you to trust me, I'm going to come clean about them.

But let me get back to the plot. Ten-year-old Young Skyler is not your typical protagonist. He’d like to live a normal life but is soon challenged with a test where he must be alone for one night- Judgement Night. Skyler has no reason to do this except his older brother went through the same thing and survived. It’s a confusing night and it gets even worse the next day when he returns home and finds his village destroyed and his family gone.

The knights who did this take him on a long journey to his new life where he will be under the rule of a boy king. When Skyler dreams it’s about living among the stars where he turns into a spaceship. This is where he begins to get answers as to his existence.

Back on young earth Skyler soon reveals the magic that he has discovered (often described as “m” word). He can tame animals and create weapons from granite.

I’m purposely not telling you too much so you can discover on your own the intricate storytelling. SECRET SKY-THE YOUNG UNIVERSE will have you constantly guessing the direction of the plot. There are still questions by the end as this is just Volume 1, but rest assured the author is already deep into writing the next installment.

Perfect for those who enjoy mystery, magic (whoops I said it again. My apologies to the narrator), and an engaging main character.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

T. Alan Horne is a writer of science fiction, fantasy, and tales of high adventure. He specializes in taking familiar genres to new places and creating characters that readers get to keep forever as souvenirs to live in their imaginations.

His first book, Advent 9, garnered high praise, and was called “Absolutely Brilliant!” by bestselling author David Farland—the writing teacher and mentor of Brandon Sanderson, Brandon Mull, Stephenie Meyer, and James Dashner.

Mr. Horne spends most of his time writing but occasionally answers fan inquiries. You can find him online at author@talanhorne.com or on the X platform (formerly Twitter) under the handle @TAlanHorne.

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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