ZEUS WATER RESCUE

Posted on January 19, 2024 by Greg Pattridge

W. Bruce Cameron has written dozens of dog centered books and his newest series, DOGS WITH A PURPOSE, gets a great start with ZEUS.

As a chocolate Labrador puppy, Zeus enjoys spending time with his brothers and sisters. That is until they start getting adopted. It’s finally Zeus’ turn when Marco from Oahu Search and Rescue takes him in as a candidate for water rescue. The plan is to train Zeus then ship him off to Europe for the work he has learned to do.

When Marco’s 13-year-old son, Kimo. returns home after spending time with his mother on the mainland, he is tasked with training Zeus. It’s not long before the two bond. Kimo must somehow convince his dad to not sell his new friend.

The story is told from Zeus’ viewpoint which is well done and shows how dogs don’t always understand our human ways. The training rescue dogs go through is fascinating.

Of course dog lovers will attach themselves immediately to ZEUS WATER RESCUE, but others, including adult readers, will also be endeared to this often humorous and exciting tale.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

W. Bruce Cameron is the New York Times bestselling author of 8 Simple Rules for Dating My Teenage Daughter, The Dog Master, and the A Dog’s Purpose series. In 2011 he was named Columnist of the Year by the National Society of Newspaper Columnists. He lives in California.

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It’s almost time for 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.

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MMGM for JANUARY 15, 2024

Posted on January 15, 2024 by Greg Pattridge

HAPPY MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. DAY! Click on to reach a blogger’s middle grade review or feature.

At ALWAYS in the MIDDLE I have a review of THE LOST LIBRARY by Rebecca Stead & Wendy Mass.

Susan Uhlig was enthralled with the historical novel: By the Light of Fireflies about a heroine of the Revolutionary War

Carol Baldwin has a review and GIVEAWAY of THE BLACKBIRD GIRLS by Anne Blankman.

Max at Completely Full Bookshelf recommends Frankie’s World by Aoife Dooley.

Faith Hough reviews My Family and Other Skaters, by Fiorella De Maria.

Welcome back to Patricia Tilton at Children’s Books Heal. Today she has a review of The Lucky Ones by Linda Williams Jackson.

Maria Antonia has a post about Make a Move, Sunny Park by Jessica Kim.

Mark Baker at Carstairs Considers also returns this week with a review of The Chalice of the Gods by Rick Riordan.

Kasey Giard at the Story Sanctuary starts the new year off with a review of Courtesy of Cupid by Nashae Jones.

Rosi Hollinbeck reviews and has a GIVEAWAY of HANGABOUT FAR FROM HOME. Rosi also shares three links of interest for her writing friends.

Karen Yingling at Mrs. Yingling Reads always has a fantastic MMGM book to share. Be sure to check it out along with last Wednesday’s look at MASCOT.

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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 LOST LIBRARY

Posted on January 14, 2024 by Greg Pattridge

Rebecca Stead and Wendy Mass are two of my favorite authors. Having them co-write a book turned into an engaging reading experience.

THE LOST LIBRARY found it’s way into my hands toward the end of last summer so I’m glad to have finally found a spot in my review schedule to feature a mystery centered around a ghost, a cat, a boy, and the sudden appearance of a roadside little library.

The story unfolds in multiple viewpoints. Eleven-year-old Evan discovers the free library near where the old library burned down many decades ago. It is guarded by Mortimer, an orange cat who also narrates many chapters. Evan takes two books, one of which is How to Write a Mystery Novel. Reading it unfolds his own mystery of how the library burned down.

Together with his friend Rafe they begin asking questions to adults, but no one wants to talk about the old library. This includes Evan’s dad who was a resident of the town when the library burned down. The third narrator turns out to be a ghost librarian who died in the fire.

THE LOST LIBRARY is perfect for 3rd – 5th graders, especially those getting ready to enter middle school. It’s about writing and the joys of finding a good book… with a special nod to those gifted individuals we know as librarians.

BOOK BIRTHDAY: August 29. 2023 PAGE COUNT: 223

FIVE MORE THINGS TO LIKE ABOUT: THE LOST LIBRARY

  1. The relationship between Evan and Rafe is what friendship is all about. They supported each other in a positive way and it will bring a smile to your face.
  2. The puzzle of who burned the library down is put together with hints throughout. They will have young readers guessing and turning the pages for more.
  3. Mortimer the cat plays a big role and his narration shines. He takes for granted the misconceptions humans have of his name and purpose in life.
  4. AL is the ghost librarian and her passion for books is ever present. She continues to struggle making sense of the tragedy that lost several lives while delaying the afterlife. An outstanding representative of those people who help us love books-our librarians.
  5. Evan learns how to write a mystery and defines his own protagonists, antagonists, and supporting characters. The journey will encourage young readers to maybe write their own mystery.

ABOUT THE AUTHORS

Rebecca Stead is a bestselling author of seven novels for young people: When You Reach Me, Liar & Spy, First Light, Goodbye Stranger, Bob (with Wendy Mass), The Lost Library (ditto) and The List of Things That Will Not Change.

Her books have been awarded the Newbery Medal, the Boston Globe/Horn Book Fiction Award and Fiction Honor, and the Guardian Children’s Fiction Prize; shortlisted for the Carnegie Medal, Waterstone’s Book Prize, Barnes & Noble Children’s Book Award, and Premio Strega Ragazze e Ragazza; and named New York Times Notable Books for Children, NPR’s Books We Love, and a Time magazine Top Ten of the Year.

She’s not a fast writer but has learned to embrace her process and urges you to do the same.

Wendy Mass is the New York Times bestselling author of thirty-one novels for young people (which have been translated into 32 languages and nominated for 91 state book awards). She lives with her family in northwest New Jersey.

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COMMENTS ARE WELCOME BELOW!

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TENACIOUS

Posted on January 12, 2024 by Greg Pattridge

The inspiring stories of 15 disabled athletes are presented in a readable and entertaining format. Each gifted individual gets a two page spread with two-thirds of the space filled with an excellent illustration. The rest of the page is their background and story that brought them future excellence at their sport.

Each section ends with the person’s DAILY CHALLENGE and DAILY JOY, true insights into themselves. You’ll be going back to read many of their quotes.

There is also a line of poetry spread across each illustration that continues the ‘Tenacious poem’ begun on the opening page with these enticing words:

Take a journey with this crew.

Come discover what they do!

After completing the book I went back and read the much longer poem. A great addition.

The book finishes with the author’s own challenges she has faced, then follows with Resources, Glossary. Paralympics Timeline, and a Bibliography.

TENACIOUS would be a perfect choice as a read aloud in the classroom or at home. A quick read that will fill your heart with joy.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR/ILLUSTRATOR

Patty Cisneros Prevo is a first-generation Latina, writer, two-time Paralympic gold medalist, and proud mom and partner. She also works as the University of Wisconsin Health Program Manager of DEI. Her manuscript for Tenacious won the 2018 Lee & Low New Voices Award Honor and marks her debut as an author. Learn more about her at pattycisnerosprevo.com.

Dion MBD or Dionisius Mehaga Bangun Djayasaputra, is an Indonesian illustrator and designer who lives and works between Brooklyn and Bandung. Dion received his Illustration BFA from Ringling College of Art Design in Florida where he grew his fascinations with clouds. Check out his website to learn more about him at dionmbd.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 Middle Grade Book Reviews, non fiction | Tagged , , , | 1 Comment

MMGM for JANUARY 8, 2024

Posted on January 8, 2024 by Greg Pattridge

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Click on 2024 to read a blogger’s middle grade review or feature.

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At ALWAYS in the MIDDLE I have a review of EXTRA NORMAL by Kate Alice Marshall.

A big welcome to author, Rebecca M. Douglass, as she joins us for the first time with a review of Richard Peck’s Strays LIke Us.

Susan Uhlig loved the wonderful I CAN MAKE THIS PROMISE by Christine Day.

Linda Browne has a roundup of the top 10 books of 2023.

Natalie Aguirre at Literary Rambles welcomes in the new year, sharing an interview with debut author Mary Averling and a giveaway of her MG fantasy The Curse of Eelgrass Bog.

Carol Baldwin lends the reviewing reigns to teen reviewer, Georgie Bartlett, with a look at THE CONJUROR’S CURSE, a YA/Upper MG novel.

Carol Baldwin has another entry this week appropriate for 8-10 year olds– I’M TRYING TO LOVE GERMS: A Picture Book Review by Guest Reviewer, Helen Wheeler.

Max at Completely Full Bookshelf starts the new year off with Break by Kayla Miller. 

Maria Antonia takes a look at Hatchet by Gary Paulsen.

Rosi Hollinbeck has a review and GIVEAWAY of FERRIS by Kate DiCamillo. Rosi also shares 3 links of interest for her writing friends.

Faith Hough returns this year with a review of Beneath the Swirling Sky, by Carolyn Leiloglou.

Karen Yingling at Mrs. Yingling Reads always has a fantastic MMGM book to share. Be sure to check it out along with last weeks TOP STORY.

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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 , , | 2 Comments

EXTRA NORMAL

Posted on January 7, 2024 by Greg Pattridge

Welcome to 2024 where I’ll be featuring some of my favorites new middle grade books releasing this year. First though, there are a few titles to sneak in this month that I couldn’t quite squeeze into my 2023 review schedule. First up is the enticing and creepy, EXTRA NORMAL.

The Greer family is about as far from normal you could ever have in a family. Twelve-year-old Charlie is the only one who feels she isn’t special. That’s because of the abnormal nature of her adopted siblings (on the cover from left to right): Matty the werewolf; Gideon who has telekinetic powers after some weird experiments; and the ghostly 8-year-old Opal.

It’s a loving family with parents who work for the Division of Extranormal Investigations. Both Mom and Dad are exhausted and finally head off on a much needed vacation, leaving the kids with two other investigators. Charlie is determined to take good care of her brothers and sisters so she can prove she is special at something.

When the Weavers move in across the street, Charlie feels they are a bit on the strange side even though everyone else says otherwise. She is certain they are hiding something in their house, quite possibly the several neighbors who have disappeared. What happens next is a mystery uncovered and a thrilling ending. Charlie and family come together and show how important love and acceptance is even when you aren’t like a normal family.

Exciting, creepy, and heartfelt, EXTRA NORMAL will have you wishing for a sequel.

FIVE MORE THINGS TO LIKE ABOUT: EXTRA NORMAL by Kate Alice Marshall

  1. The very diverse cast will win you over. Matty is deaf, Gideon doesn’t believe in using his powers, and Opal is overly nervous about their plight. A memorable group trying to work together.
  2. Agent Baxter and Pendleton, the kids’ adult supervision while the parents were vacationing, are a funny twosome. They weren’t just sub-characters but an important part of the story.
  3. Charlie steals the show with a caring attitude about her siblings and trying to do her best for the parents she adores.
  4. When do you ask an adult for help was balanced perfectly and very believable.
  5. No spoilers, but what the Weavers are doing to stay alive will have you glad they aren’t your neighbors. Well done creepiness for the MG audience.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Kate Alice Marshall is the author of young adult and middle grade novels, including I AM STILL ALIVE, RULES FOR VANISHING, and THIRTEENS.

She lives outside of Seattle with her husband, two dogs named Vonnegut and Octavia, and two kids. They all conspire to keep her on her toes.

(For more about Kate and her books visit the author’s web site)

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COMMENTS ARE WELCOME BELOW!

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

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THE INVENTOR

Posted on January 5, 2024 by Greg Pattridge

This new graphic series is a real attention grabber both from the artwork and story synopsis:

Discover the vibrant island of Mata-Mata with long-time residents Cobalt Cogg and his grandfather, Alfred. Cobalt wants to grow up to be like his grandpa – an inventor! But when he and his friend, Linnea, get into an accident with one of Alfred’s inventions, all hopes for creating seem lost. Can Cobalt recover and move forward with his friends and family? Plus: learn about Alpha-Energy and all the ways it can help! And is there something more to this mysterious energy source? Process all this and grief, joy, health, and creativity, in this fantastical coming-of-age graphic novel.

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Cobalt is an endearing MC. His accident is heartbreaking but propels him to do more inventions. His relationship with his grandfather and the future it holds will for sure endear readers to stay with the series.

Each page is vibrant with colors jumping off the page. Even the backgrounds of each are worth a look.

The 152 pages fly by way too quick and will leave you anxious for the next volume. For now, DANGEROUS DISCOVERY will be released on January 23, You can pre-order the book through either of the previous links.

Writer/Artist – Lars Henrik Eriksen

Lars Henrik Eriksen (b. 1995) studied music at upper secondary school, and has further education as a civil engineer. He has always loved comics and has been drawing for as long as he can remember. Eriksen participated in Egmont’s comic book competition in 2018 and immediately received a book contract. This inspired him to continue with his comic book – which now sees the light of day.

“I find it incredibly exciting to know that children in the US soon will have the opportunity to read “The Inventor”, and get to know the aspiring inventor Cobalt, his friend and the mayor’s daughter, Linnea, and learn about all the colorful turtles and people of Mata-Mata.

I’m also very grateful to the team at Mad Cave who are making this release possible, and am very much looking forward to seeing the book out in English!” – Writer/Artist, Lars Henrik Eriksen (He/Him)

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Posted in Graphic Novels, Middle Grade Book Reviews | Tagged , , | 1 Comment

MMGM for DECEMBER 18, 2023

Posted on December 18, 2023 by Greg Pattridge

Enjoy the last MMGM for 2023 (NO MMGM on December 25th or January 1st). Thanks to all the visitors and a special thanks to those who contribute. MMGM will be back for another year on January 8, 2024! Happy Holidays!

Click on the twinkling lights to read a blogger’s middle grade review or feature.

At ALWAYS in the MIDDLE I have a review of SIXTH GRADE SUPERSTAR by Brian Lynch.

Natalie Aguirre at Literary Rambles has  an interview with Joanne Rossmassler Fritz and a giveaway of her MG novel in verse Ruptured.

Max at COMPLETELY FULL BOOKSHELF recommends Look on the Bright Side by Lily Williams and Karen Schneemann.

Brenda at Log Cabin Library returns with a review of Looking Up by Stephan Pastis.

Linda Browne presents her Bookcase Bizarro with a collection of reviews from the past month. You’ll find both MG and YA titles here.

Carol Baldwin welcomes back guest reviewer Mara Scudder and her review of TEARS TO DANCING.

Rosi Hollinbeck has a review and GIVEAWAY of THE MONARCHS OF WINGHAVEN. Rosi also shares three links for her writing friends.

Karen Yingling at Mrs. Yingling Reads always has a fantastic MMGM book to share. Be sure to check it out along with last Tuesday’s review of LAST EXIT TO FERAL.

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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 , , | 2 Comments

SIXTH GRADE SUPERSTAR

Posted on December 17, 2023 by Greg Pattridge

My first year as a teacher was spent with 35 sixth graders. Back in those days sixth grade was at the top of the elementary school ladder. Kids had waited their whole lives to be leaders of the pack.

It was a fun year and I only made a few mistakes. I was learning right along with my students and probably learned more than I did in the degree program that bought me there.

But changes were coming. The next year sixth grade became a part of Junior High (later to be called Middle School). Sixth graders were now at the bottom of the ladder looking up at 7th and 8th graders. A scary proposition.

Sixth Grade Superstar is a fun look a that first year of Junior High as author Brian Lynch takes us back to 1986:

Sixth Grader Ty Bogart has a role in the school musical! It’s opening up a whole new world to him: He’s making new friends, talking to way older women (some of them as old as EIGHTH GRADE), and going to big kid parties (which go until 9 PM, if you can believe it). Ty is going to act. He’s going to dance. He’s going to sing. He’s going to kiss a girl right on the forehead in Act 2. There’s just one problem: Whenever Ty has to perform in front of people, he loses his voice. Can he find it before opening night?

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Ty narrates the tale and interspersed are innocent drawings of how he sees himself and others. It’s not a graphic novel but more text based with pictures added for increased enjoyment while reading about his plight.

Ty is shy and just trying to fit in. There’s a bully who makes Ty feel miserable, but then he tries out for the school musical and despite not being that strong of a singer he gains new friends and eventual confidence. Even though the story is set in the past, current middle graders will see many of the same awkward issues they face today.

Perfect as a read aloud, the character arcs for Ty and friend Bowen are crafted in superb fashion. SIXTH GRADE SUPERSTAR is an easy read that will have you smiling and laughing out loud at times. A great holiday gift for the sixth grader in your life.

PAGE COUNT: 261  BOOK BIRTHDAY: November 12, 2023

About the Author

Brian Michael Lynch (born June 21, 1973) is an American film and comic book writer. Lynch was the initial writer and co-creator with Joss Whedon of Angel: After the Fall for IDW Publishing, and is best known for writing the screenplays for the films Puss in Boots and Minions. He has also written an unproduced film adaptation of The Sims.

(Bio from Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia)

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COMMENTS ARE WELCOME BELOW!

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

Posted in Middle Grade Book Reviews, New Release | Tagged , , , | 9 Comments

THE PRESIDENTS DECODED

Posted on December 15, 2023 by Greg Pattridge

THE PRESIDENT’S DECODED is a detailed and revealing look at the 45 men who have spent time as the President of the United States. Presented in the order they took office, the information is never boring with insights into their lives before and during time as our presidential leader.

An illustration and background is first presented along with a DID YOU KNOW? piece. It’s here where you will discover both common and uncommon facts. There are fun ones like John Tyler (#10) being the first president to get married while in office; to the more serious as Andrew Jackson (#7) was the first president to face an assassination attempt.

After each first page, the person’s life before presidency is detailed followed by their time as Mr. President. Upon reflection of their successes and failures in office, the closing of each section is where you find their legacy.

THE PRESIDENTS DECODED is a must for any school or home library. It’s full of primary sources and ends with Suggestions for Further Reading. A readable and entertaining view of the 45 individuals who have led our country.

Page Count: 248 BOOK BIRTHDAY: October 17. 2023

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It’s almost time for our final Marvelous Middle Grade Monday in 2023. 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, non fiction | Tagged , , | 1 Comment