BLUE STARS: THE VICE PRINCIPAL PROBLEM

Posted on March 10, 2024 by Greg Pattridge

BLUE STARS is a new graphic series featuring two enduring characters.

Pictured on the left is Maya Dawn who has moved to Urbanapolis to live with Grandma while her parents are on active duty in Japan. Joining Maya is Riley Halfmoon. She and her parents came from Oklahoma and will also live with Grandma as Dad is going to nursing school and Mom has a new job.

Introverted Maya is into science and inventions while outgoing Riley loves gymnastics. Sharing a room does not go well at first but soon the girls become friends. They embark on a plan to run for sixth-grade class president and uncover the misdeeds of vice principal Balderdash.

The story moves along at an enjoyable pace and will appeal to anyone into great storytelling in a graphic format. BLUE STARS is a winner,

BOOK BIRTHDAY: March 5, 2024 PAGE COUNT: 176

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

FIVE MORE THINGS TO LIKE ABOUT… BLUE STARS: THE VICE PRINCIPAL PROBLEM

  1. The artwork is superb showing the emotions in each scene, especially through each character’s eyes.
  2. Having the vice-principal be such a horrid person was a bit far fetched, but the idea of students against administration is just the type of conflict young readers enjoy.
  3. A wonderful diverse cast of characters thanks to the authors own diversity.
  4. The author’s note was the perfect way to bring a close to this first story in the series. It’s a motivational read urging students to be active voices in their schools.
  5. The theme that you don’t have to have the same interests to be best companions. Each person’s strengths can help both succeed.

ABOUT THE AUTHORS

Kekla Magoon is the author of many novels and nonfiction books for young readers, including The Season of Styx Malone, The Rock and the River, How It Went Down, and Revolution in Our Time: The Black Panther Party’s Promise to the People. 

She has received the Margaret A. Edwards Award, the Boston Globe-Horn Book Award, the John Steptoe New Talent Award, three Coretta Scott King Honors, the Walter Award Honor, an NAACP Image Award, and been a finalist for the National Book Award. 

Kekla conducts school and library visits nationwide and serves on the Writers’ Council for the National Writing Project. Kekla holds a B.A. from Northwestern University and an M.F.A. in Writing from Vermont College of Fine Arts, where she now serves on faculty. Visit her online at keklamagoon.com.

Cynthia Leitich Smith (Muscogee) is a NYTimes bestseller, 2024 Southern Mississippi Medallion Winner, and 2021 NSK Neustadt Laureate. Her titles include HEARTS UNBROKEN, which won an American Indian Youth Literature Award, the anthology ANCESTOR APPROVED, an Indigenous PETER PAN retelling titled SISTERS OF THE NEVERSEA, HARVEST HOUSE, which is one of five Bram Stoker Award® Nominees for Superior Achievement in a Young Adult Novel, and—the BLUE STARS series, also by Kekla Magoon and Molly Murakami. Cynthia looks forward to ON A WING AND A TEAR for middle graders. She is the author-curator of Heartdrum, a Native-focused imprint of HarperChildren’s. (Author Website)

ABOUT THE ILLUSTRATOR

Molly Murakami (she/her) is a cartoonist, illustrator, and writer from Minneapolis, Minnesota. She likes to make work about family, shared histories, and identity.

Molly has worked with Bleacher Report, Candlewick Press, Densho, First Second, IDW, and others. She enjoys reading all kinds of books, helicopter-parenting her house plants, and looking up the ends of movies on Wikipedia.

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

COMMENTS ARE WELCOME BELOW!

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

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

DOUBLE BOOKING

Posted on March 8, 2024 by Greg Pattridge

DOUBLE BOOKING is a fun and unique graphic novel that will hit the shelves on April 16th. The story is told from two perspectives (siblings Otto and Nan) on a trip to Egypt with their travel blogger mom.

Nan is all about following in the footsteps of her mom and loves to read. Being in Egypt is a dream come true. Otto never wanted to go on this trip since he is missing art camp back home. Neither are prepared for the adventure that unfolds after they find a sarcophagus. They accidentally free a mummy cat from a pharaoh’s chamber and take off to find it.

Multiple perspective books usually devote a chapter to each character in a back and forth format. Not so here as Double Booking is a double-sided flip book. Otto relays his story in one direction, flip the book and you get Nan’s perspective. Start with either character! It’s the same story from different viewpoints. A motivating and double insightful way to read a story.

Along the way readers will learn a little bit about Egypt’s past as the kids explore the city. The art work is excellent showing just the right perspective in each scene. Those whose preference in reading graphic novels will find a new friend with Double Booking. The unique format just might sway those not into graphic style books to give this one a try.

BOOK BIRTHDAY: APRIL 16, 2024 PAGE COUNT: 144

About the Authors

Writer: Kim Shearer has been a public educator for twenty years, serving students as an English teacher and librarian. She was named the 2012 Kentucky Teacher of the Year. She resides in Hebron, KY with her husband, her two daughters, and her two rescue dogs, Elmer and Gordie. She’s also a pretty amazing big sister to her co-writer, Chas! Pangburn.

Writer: Be it as a writer, editor, and/or letterer, Chas! Pangburn puts words in balloons for a variety of publishers across the industry. He’s been fortunate to have known Kim Shearer, his co-writer and big sister, since birth, so the highs and lows of sibling life are second nature to him. Which, speaking of, their mom says it’s now his turn to play on the Nintendo.

About the Artist

Artist: ​​ Nic Touris is a dork who likes comics so much that he’s illustrated enough to fill a bookshelf. His art is full of bright colors and silly characters. When he’s not drawing, he plays DnD and cooks fancy food, but not at the same time. Nic is a cat person, but also a dog person.

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

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 , , , , , | 5 Comments

MMGM for March 4, 2024

Posted on March 4, 2024 by Greg Pattridge

 

At ALWAYS in the MIDDLE I have a review of Grimmworld-The Witch in the Woods.

Natalie Aguirre at Literary Rambles has a great interview with Rajani LaRocca and a giveaway of her MG fantasy Sona and the Golden Beasts. This post won’t be available until Wednesday, March 6th so hurry back in a few days.

Brenda at Log Cabin Library has a review of  Ferris by Kate DiCamillo.

Sue Heavenrich has a MG non-fiction over at Archimedes Notebook: Animal Climate Heroes, by Alison Pearce Stevens.

Linda Browne is back with another BOOKCASE BIZARRO with a summary of her February reviews.

Maria Antonia has a post about Nothing Else But Miracles by Kate Albus.

Valinora Troy reviews TWICE UPON A TIME by Michelle Harrison.

Faith Hough shares her thoughts on The Girl in the Window, by Lindsey Hobson:.

Rosi Hollinbeck reviews SOUNDS GOOD! Also included are three links of interest for Rosi’s 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 review of THE PARTITION PROJECT.

———————————————————————

(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

GRIMMWORLD: The Witch in the Woods

Posted on March 3, 2024 by Greg Pattridge

Twins Willow and Jake Grimm are making a reluctant move with their parents to New Marburg, Idaho. Both dad, Phil and mom, Dorothy have new jobs at The Think Tank Company.

Weird things happen from the get-go. Before they even leave on their cross country road trip, Willow and Jake are attacked by a strange man. Their parents react like nothing happened. Next, when they arrive in New Marburg, it’s a town full of inventions like flying cars and robots.

Things getting even weirder when school starts for the twins. Their new 5th grade teacher is mean to them, always degrading the two for academic and behavior shortcomings. None of which are true. They don’t even get regular desks.

Soon enough, the school turns into a castle with a creepy hall monitor monster. They are suddenly in Grimmworld, where fairy tales live including Hansel and Gretel.

The wild adventure in GRIMMWORLD begins and without giving away anymore of this creepy plot, you meet a wizard, one nasty witch, and a naked mole rat. It all comes together in a “What’s going to happen next?” surprise from one chapter to the next. The ending sets up Book 2 making this series perfect for fans of fantasy and fairy tale plots.

BOOK BIRTHDAY: MARCH 5, 2024 PAGE COUNT: 320

FIVE MORE THINGS TO LIKE ABOUT: GRIMMWORLD-THE WITCH IN THE WOODS by MICHAELBRENT COLLINGS

  1. The world building is an engaging accomplishment, giving you the sense of being alongside the main characters as they deal with this dangerous place.
  2. The twins being so different. Willow is athletic, strong, talkative, and artistic. She loves to read fantasy and Sci-fi books. Jake is super smart, has a great memory, but is quiet and lacks confidence. Memorable characters that will carry the series forward.
  3. If you like puns them get ready for a lot of them. They had me giggling many times.
  4. The witch sends the creepiness scale to its maximum. She’s meaner than mean, likes to devour kids for a tasty meal, and always spins the tale in her favor. Middle grade readers will enjoy every aspect of the witch’s character arc.
  5. This had a movie-like feel with the setting and strong characters. Here’s hoping one is eventually made.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR (website)

Michaelbrent Collings is an internationally bestselling novelist, produced screenwriter, and speaker. Best known for horror (and voted one of the top 20 All-Time Greatest Horror Writers in a Ranker vote of nearly 20,000 readers), Collings has written bestselling thrillers, mysteries, sci-fi and fantasy titles, and even humor and non-fiction.

In addition to popular success, Michaelbrent has also received critical acclaim: he is the only person who has ever been a finalist for a Bram Stoker Award (twice), a Dragon Award (twice), and a RONE Award, and he and his work have been reviewed and/or featured on everything from Publishers Weekly to Scream Magazine to NPR.

An engaging and entertaining speaker, he is also a frequent guest at comic cons and on writing podcasts like Six Figure Authors, The Creative Penn, Writing Excuses, and others; and is a mental health advocate and TEDx speaker.

Michaelbrent is also the owner of Bestseller Life, a comprehensive writing and self-publishing course that transforms storytellers into storysellers, and teaches authors how to become their own best story. Find out more at BestsellerLife.com.

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

COMMENTS ARE WELCOME BELOW!

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

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

I AM, I CAN, I WILL

Posted on March 1, 2024 by Greg Pattridge

Inspiring and interactive, the guided journal presents 35 amazing women who provide a great framework for Black girls.

Many of the names are familiar ones like Michelle Obama, Harriett Tubman, Oprah Winfrey, and Venus Williams. But also included are individuals from the past two centuries who weren’t so famous. New to me were women like Mary Fields (A U.S. Postal Service Mail carrier); Jane Bolin (Family Court Judge); and Barbara Hillary (Arctic Explorer and Adventurer).

Whether well known or not, you’ll find a two-page spread for each of the accomplished role models. Included are an illustration, a motivational quote, and a full page of written text outlining their important contribution.

What makes this book unique are the journal like pages that follow each person. Here is where readers can begin to look at what is important to them individually and begin to make goals, culminating in the I AM I CAN AND I WILL in their own lives and future.

Perfect for ages 8 and up, I AM I CAN I WILL is a fantastic tool for discussion and reflection.

About the Authors (From Hachette Book Group)

Dr. Cynthia Jacobs Carter works in philanthropy at the Smithsonian Institution’s National Museum of African American History and Culture. She is the author of the National Geographic books Africana Woman: Her Story Through Time and Freedom in My Heart: Voices from the National Slavery Museum, which was nominated by the NAACP Image Awards for Best Literary Work. Cynthia’s gift for storytelling brings alive the Black female experience for women of all ages. Having six granddaughters helps inspire her to celebrate young women. Holding a doctorate in educational leadership and a master’s degree in international education from the George Washington University, Cynthia has connected especially with young women as an instructor and lecturer in Africana Women’s studies at GW and Georgetown Universities. While working in philanthropy at Howard University, she was curator for the exhibition “Women of the African Diaspora,” which toured the White House, the World Bank, and George Washington and Georgetown Universities. Cynthia serves with several local and national organizations and their boards, including The Links, Incorporated. As a development officer she has grown philanthropic programs at Africare, the Smithsonian Center for Folklife and Cultural Heritage, and at the National Museum of African American History and Culture, where she founded the Harriet Tubman Legacy Society.

Ruth Chamblee is a publishing and marketing professional who leads the Content Marketing Strategy & Promotion team for National Geographic Kids Books. Her early career included brand management marketing at Richardson-Vicks, a division of Procter and Gamble, and membership marketing for the Smithsonian Institution Books and Recordings divisions.  For more than three decades she has designed and carried out multifaceted strategic marketing initiatives for countless National Geographic books, and her guidance has helped bring new voices to and fill key niches in the children’s book market. She is a board member of the Children’s Book Council and Chairman of the Board for Every Child a Reader. Her vision for I Am, I Can, I Will arose from her realization that knowing and honoring our ancestors can contribute to self-awareness, self-empowerment, and self-love for her, her daughter, and all little Black girls.

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

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 February 26, 2024

Posted on February 26, 2024 by Greg Pattridge

 

At ALWAYS in the MIDDLE I have a review of THE UNICORN LEGACY-Tangled Magic by Kamilla Benko.

Natalie Aguirre at Literary Rambles has an interview with debut author Megan Brennan and a GIVEAWAY of her MG graphic novel Kira and the (Maybe) Space Princess.

Rosi Hollinbeck reviews FACING THE ENEMY: HOW A NAZI YOUTH CAMP IN AMERICA TESTED A FRIENDSHIP. Also included are three links of interest for Rosi’s writing friends.

ET Charles joins us for the first time and shares Tara Lazar’s nonfiction book Absurd Words.

Sue Heavenrich is hanging out at Archimedes Notebook with a review of a fun picture book aimed at the 7-10 yr old group, My Antarctica: True Adventures in the Land of Mummified Seals, Space Robots, and So Much More.

Carol Baldwin has another review from tween guest blogger Brooke White about RAT by Jan Cheripko. 

Patricia Tilton in honor of Black History Month shares some thoughts on a biorgraphy, Mamie Phipps Clark: Champion for Children, by Lynnette Mawhinney.

Faith Hough reviews The Selkie’s Daughter, by Linda Crotta Brennan.

Valinora Troy takes a look at Norah’s Ark by Victoria Williamson.

Karen Yingling at Mrs. Yingling Reads always has a fantastic MMGM book to share. Be sure to check it out along with last Thursday’s review of LEON LEVELS UP.

———————————————————————

(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 UNICORN LEGACY – TANGLED MAGIC

Posted on February 25, 2024 by Greg Pattridge

Magic pulses bright in Arden, a world where humans who craft magic have been at war and separated for hundreds of years. Now a new era has dawned, the unicorns have returned, and the prime minister has decreed that apprentices from all four guilds will learn in the newly formed Unicorn Academy. But peace is tenuous: As rumors spread of dark magic and of unicorns disappearing, twelve-year-old apprentice Olivia Hayes is caught between her joy at newfound magical abilities at the academy and proving to everyone that her older sister, Laurel, is NOT a unicorn poacher. She and her friends must untangle the truth and the secrets of the past to spin a stronger future-or else the unicorns of Arden may be lost forever. This sweeping middle grade fantasy is about friendship, choice, and the ties that truly matter.

##################

The enticing cover hints at what is in store in this magical adventure. Thirty-five chapters bring forth a tale of new friends, sisterhood, and the other-world known as Arden.

The beginning, as Olivia goes against her family wishes to not attend Unicorn Academy, is the perfect setup for middle grade readers. She is an appealing characters that drives the story to a thrilling conclusion. Olivia doesn’t seem to have any magical abilities but is determined and not afraid to break rules. Her quest to uncover the mystery of the unicorns and bring truth to her sister’s involvement is the core of the plot.

THE UNICORN LEGACY Tangled Magic has a great cast of clever girls. It will appeal to all girls (and maybe a few boys) who love a new fantasy world.

BOOK BIRTHDAY: February 27, 2024 PAGE COUNT: 368

####################

FIVE MORE THINGS TO LIKE ABOUT: THE UNICORN LEGACY Tangled Magic by Kamilla Benko

  1. Many surprising twists and turns had me flipping the pages for more.
  2. Never expected a giant worm called the Devourer to wreak such havoc. A creepy addition.
  3. The character arcs for Olivia’s new friends, especially Violet and Kessa, were laid out with perfection by the author.
  4. The ending nicely sets up the next book in the series and will have readers anxious to continue the journey with Olivia.
  5. Although the unicorns take on more of a mysterious presence in this tale, you get the feeling you will be seeing a lot more of them in the future. Just what unicorn loving readers desire.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Kamilla Benko spent most of her childhood climbing into wardrobes, trying to step through mirrors, and plotting to run away to an art museum. Now, she visits other worlds as a children’s book author and editor. She currently lives in Indiana with her family next to a friendly willow tree. 

(For more visit Kamilla’s author website)

##########################

COMMENTS ARE WELCOME BELOW!

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

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

How We Became Intergalactic Superheroes

Posted on February 23, 2024 by Greg Pattridge

All his life, twelve-year-old Ben Grishop has been practically nonexistent. Hardly anyone knows who he is, he’s not good at anything no matter how hard he tries, and he blends into all chairs and benches. But when he and his friends Joe and Dana are abducted by aliens one fateful summer night, they have the chance to become famous for saving the universe. That is, if they can survive a planet full of giant, man-eating, French-speaking crabs, a pair of tuxedoed, gibberish-spouting men with handlebar mustaches, and the mysterious “immensely powerful, evil force from The Realm Beyond.”

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

The story is weird, wacky, comical and perfect for middle grade readers. The plot unfolds with many surprising characters Dana, Ben, and Joe encounter. Those “human stew” loving crabs and apes provide plenty of tense moments, but the humor always wins out.

The more serious aspect of feeling alone and ignored is a theme many will understand. Ben comes full circle with his own solution and it plays out nicely.

Don’t even try and guess what will happen in this fast paced tale. There is an unexpected, surprising turn in every scene.

How We Became Intergalactic Superheroes is the ideal gift for those who like alien stories wrapped up in a quirky, fun plot.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Chris von Halle has had many different lives in many different worlds—the near and distant future Earth, other planets, and even other dimensions—and his books recreate his childhood memories of such outlandish locations. In this world and life, he lives in Ridgewood, New Jersey, and enjoys such extraordinary activities as playing videogames, tennis, and basketball, and writing the occasional comic strip.

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

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.

Posted in MG Fantasy, Middle Grade Book Reviews | Tagged , , | 2 Comments

MMGM for February 19, 2024

Posted on February 19, 2024 by Greg Pattridge

 

At ALWAYS in the MIDDLE I have a review of MAX in the HOUSE of SPIES by Adam Gidwitz.

Rosi Hollinbeck reviews DANCING IN THE STORM. Also included are three links of interest for her writing friends.

Mark Baker is back this week with a review of Mission Manhattan by James Ponti.

Kasey Giard @ The Story Sanctuary reviews The Unicorn Legacy: Tangled Magic by Kamilla Benko.

Patricia Tilton reviews  a novel in verse, Garvey in the Dark by Nikki Grimes. 

Faith Hough has a”throwback” review up this week: The Borrowed House, by Hilda van Stockum (originally published in the 70’s).

Valinora Troy reviews The Doll Twin by Janine Beacham.

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 DRAWING DEENA.

———————————————————————

(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

Max in the House of Spies

Posted on February 18, 2024 by Greg Pattridge

I am a big fan of historical fiction. My enthusiasm is often not shared by the 7-13 year old age group. Max in the House of Spies just might sway them over to my side.

11-year-old Max Bretzfeld lives in Berlin with his parents during World War II. Germany is not a safe place if you are Jewish so Max is sent off to England to live with another family. Max wants nothing more than to return to life with his loving mom and dad. His only hope is to become a British spy.

The history of this horrific time period is brought forth in gripping fashion, There’s also a fantasy element as Max finds two lively spirits named Stein and Berg attached to his shoulders. They keep up a humorous dialog advising and irritating Max.

The family Max lives with has some strong ties to British intelligence and before you know it Max is in training and hopefully will return to Berlin as the youngest spy. The author does a wonderful job of covering the obvious: Why would responsible adults let a boy become a spy? The training takes more than a year and the ending has you anxious for the next book. Max’s tenacity and drive will for sure win the hearts of MG readers.

BOOK BIRTHDAY: FEB. 27, 2024    PAGE COUNT: 334

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

FIVE MORE THINGS TO LIKE ABOUT: MAX in the HOUSE of SPIES by Adam Gidwitz

  1. Both the misdeeds of the Nazis and the British were brought forth. The impeccable research by the author made this a reality.
  2. Max’s intelligence and unique skills rise above any of the adults. His kid like thoughts and ingenious plans meld together flawlessly.
  3. Though certainly not needed, the inclusion of Stein and Berg kept the story lighthearted. Their constant banter reminded me of the old Smother’s Brother’s comedy duo.
  4. Forty-seven chapters that often end with a enticing line to make you read more. It succeeded doing that every time for me.
  5. The added “HOW MUCH OF THIS IS REAL?” in the back pages is must reading. It details the events and people that were true to the history. Also included is a bibliography worth looking into for more details about WWII.

About the Author

Adam Gidwitz is the author of the Newbery Honor winning THE INQUISITOR’S TALE, the best-seller A TALE DARK AND GRIMM and its companions, and the new series THE UNICORN RESCUE SOCIETY. He also has a forthcoming podcast from Pinna called GRIMM, GRIMMER, GRIMMEST. Adam taught in Brooklyn for eight years. Now, he writes full-time—which means he writes a couple of hours a day, and lies on the couch staring at the ceiling the rest of the time. As is the case with all of his books, everything in them not only happened in the real fairy tales . . . it also happened to him. Really. Learn more at www.adamgidwitz.com, on Facebook, and follow him on Twitter: @AdamGidwitz.

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

COMMENTS ARE WELCOME BELOW!

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

Posted in Historical fiction, MG Fantasy, Middle Grade Book Reviews | Tagged , , | 6 Comments