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.”

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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.

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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.

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.

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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

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

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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.

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

THE RECKONING

Posted on February 16, 2024 by Greg Pattridge

Young Lamar is in middle school and can’t wait to start making movies like his idol, Spike Lee. Grandpa has even gifted him a camcorder that will create something special much better than phones.

Spending time with Gramps is great as he tells stories of Black history and his own activism in the small town of Morton, Louisiana. Lamar starts to envision making a documentary about Grandpa’s life.

That dream is shattered when Grandpa is killed in a traffic altercation. The white man who did the shooting claims self defense, but Lamar, his family, and others in the community think otherwise. Unfortunately there were no witnesses to the shooting.

Organized protests follow (thanks in part to Lamar’s older sister) and doing so divides the town even more. Lamar films everything he can while keeping his plan to complete the documentary.

The third person narration stays close to Lamar the entire way. It’s a reminder we still have a long way to go with the differing treatment of blacks and whites. Old stereotypes take a long time to go away.

I was hoping Lamar’s film would bring justice to the shooting, but instead the plot has Lamar learning about the past and what he’ll do to follow in Gramp’s footsteps. An accomplished goal for sure, and the film would be an engaging one to watch from a young person’s viewpoint.

THE RECKONING is about family, the truth, and always being better. Perfect messages for the intended middle grade reader.

PAGE COUNT: 256 BOOK BIRTHDAY: 1/2/24

CONNECT WITH WADE HUDSON via his Facebook page and/or through JUST US BOOKS. the publishing company Wade and his wife developed 35 years ago.

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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 , , , | Leave a comment

MMGM for February 12, 2024

Posted on February 12, 2024 by Greg Pattridge

 

At ALWAYS in the MIDDLE I have a review of HUMMINGBIRD SEASON by Stephanie V.W. Lucianovic.

Natalie Aguirre at Literary Rambles returns with a guest post by author Sherry Ellis and a blog-tour giveaway of Bubba and Squirt’s City of Bones and a $50 Amazon Gift Card.

Jennifer Rummel at YA Book Nerd joins the MMGM lineup this week with a look at popular MG writer James Ponti’s author event.

Kasey Giard @ The Story Sanctuary reviews a middle grade nonfiction book called Sick!: The Twists and Turns Behind Animal Germs by Heather L. Montgomery and Lindsey Leigh.

Carol Baldwin welcomes back teen reviewer Elliott Kurta and his review of ROSIE WOODS in LITTLE RED WRITING HOOD.

Brenda at Log Cabin Library has a review of I Am, I Can, I Will: A Guided Journal of Self-Discovery for Black Girls by Dr. Cynthia Jacobs Carter & Ruth Chamblee Illustrations by Steffi Walthall.

Faith Hough reviews The Many Assassinations of Samir, Seller of Dreams, by Daniel Nayeri.

Maria Antonia is back this week with a post about: School Trip by Jerry Craft.

Valinora Troy checks in with a review of The Whisperwicks: The Labyinth of Lost and Found by Jordan Lees.

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 BETWEEN TWO BROTHERS.

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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

HUMMINGBIRD SEASON

Posted on February 11, 2024 by Greg Pattridge

COVID.

March, 2020. It hit fast and hard. None of us were prepared for what was about to unfold. Teachers and parents often struggled providing support for children during this difficult time when we were locked in and shut out from our normal lives. But it was our youth who perhaps suffered the most, and in many cases continue to emotionally and academically suffer from those blank years.

HUMMINGBIRD SEASON, a novel in verse, gives readers a first person view of COVID times from young Archie in this tender story of survival.

Set in California where Archie lives with loving parents and an older teen brother, the story begins with a quick look at how it was before COVID. Fun times with family and friends, eating out, and going to school in an actual school building.

When the shut-in begins, Archie feels alone as his brother is no fun anymore and he can’t seem to find anyone who will listen to how he feels. Then he discovers a hummingbird and researches all the aspects of this unique creature. He calls the most frequent visitor Ruby and provides a place for Ruby to feed outside his bedroom window. Archie is beginning to feel better about his family and life going forward thanks to having Ruby, but then a California wildfire adds more sadness to the already difficult times.

Archie will win you over with his compassion and emotional lyrical outpourings. HUMMINGBIRD SEASON is a tough time to revisit so soon, but it is a story you can relive now and then tuck it away, ready to be shared with future generations.

BOOK BIRTHDAY: Feb. 13, 2024  PAGE COUNT: 272

FIVE MORE THINGS TO LIKE ABOUT: HUMMINGBIRD SEASON by Stephanie V.W. Lucianovic

  1. The hopeful ending was also a reminder of the changes each character showed, Especially true for older brother, Hank, Archie and his mom.
  2. Archie’s take on “not real school” when looking at a computer screen instead of being there in person.
  3. The background information on hummingbirds will motivate young readers to learn more about these birds, maybe by even providing a nectar feeder like Archie did to observe them up close.
  4. Archie was 9 years old at the time of this story. He would now be in Middle School. A perfect question came to mind for discussion possibilities: Is Archie succeeding in school and life today? (I would hope so, but his peers may not be so fortunate)
  5. The layout of the poetry was well done as was the occasional illustrations. They effects added even more emotion to the words.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Stephanie V.W. Lucianovic writes books in the San Francisco Bay Area surrounded by a few kids, a few cats, and one husband.

She is the author of SUFFERING SUCCOTASH: A PICKY EATER’S QUEST TO UNDERSTAND WHY WE HATE THE FOODS WE HATE (2012); THE END OF SOMETHING WONDERFUL (PB 2019); HELLO, STAR (PB 2021); THE LEAGUE OF PICKY EATERS (MG 2021); WHAT IS HOPE (PB 2023); HUMMINGBIRD SEASON (MG 2024), TOUCH THE SKY (PB 2024), ZOMBIE AND BRAIN ARE FRIENDS (PB 2025) and WHEN BREATHING IS TOO LOUD (PB 2025).

Stephanie still sleeps with the teddy bear she had as a baby, she has a bellybutton phobia, and she was born with six wisdom teeth. She doesn’t think this makes her any wiser than the average chewer but it does give her a biting sense of humor. Her favorite words are “knelt” and “cloak.”

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

THE PRINCESS PROTECTION PROGRAM

Posted on February 9, 2024 by Greg Pattridge

I didn’t expect to like a book about princesses.

Boy, was I wrong.

THE PRINCESS PROTECTION PROGRAM has plenty of laughs thanks to the dialog between the cast of interesting characters. Surprising twists and turns kept me reading right to the likeable ending.

The story begins with Sleeping Beauty waking up from a 100 year nap after receiving that uninvited princely kiss. She does the unexpected and runs away, eventually ending up at the Orphans’ Home Educational Academy. The place is for princesses (and one prince) who have escaped from their fairy tales and now won’t have to face the endings of their stories.

Rosamund (Sleeping Beauty) is confused by the place with it’s modern day conveniences, and a curriculum that seems to teach the same thing over and over. There’s also a lot of cleaning going on by the princesses.

The truth is uncovered by Rosamund and a few other fairy tale friends. Witches, unicorns, fairy godmothers, giant monsters (Uponatimes), and a pizza parlor all play an intriguing role. The 224 pages go by fast and for sure will capture the admiration of middle grade readers, girls and boys alike.

BOOK BIRTHDAY: FEBRUARY 13, 2024

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Alex London is the author of over 30 books for children, teens, and adults, with over 2 million copies sold. He’s the author of the middle grade Dog Tags, Tides of War, Wild Ones, and Accidental Adventures series, as well as two titles in the 39 Clues. His latest middle grade series, Battle Dragons, a cyberpunk romp pitched as The Fast and the Furious meets How to Train Your Dragon, is out from Scholastic. For young adults, he’s the author of the cyberpunk duology Proxy, an ALA Top Ten Quick Pick for Reluctant Young Readers, Best Fiction For Young Adults, and Rainbow List selection and the epic fantasy trilogy, Black Wings Beating, an NBC Today Show Pick, a Kirkus Best Young Adult Fantasy selection, a Seventeen Magazine best of 2018 pick, and a We Need Diverse Books 2018 Must Read, and a 2020 Rainbow List selection. He’s been a journalist and human rights researcher reporting from conflict zones and refugee camps, a young adult librarian with New York Public Library, an assistant to a film agent, and a snorkel salesman. He lives with his husband, daughter, and hound dog in Philadelphia, PA.

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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.

Posted in MG Fantasy, Middle Grade Book Reviews | Tagged , , , | 1 Comment

MMGM for February 5, 2024

Posted on February 5, 2024 by Greg Pattridge

 

1. At ALWAYS in the MIDDLE I have a review of Shark Teeth by Sherri Winston.

2. Linda Browne returns with her Bookcase Bizzarro, MG/YA book reviews and author news for January, 2024. 

3. Susan Uhlig enjoyed SIERRA BLUE by Suzanne Morgan Williams. Magical realism, horses, and a kid escaping from teasing at home.

4. Kasey Giard @ The Story Sanctuary reviews Drawing Deena by Hena Khan.

5. Faith Hough has a post about The Balter of Ashton Harper, by Millie Florence.

6. Brenda at Log Cabin Library has a Book Tour for Not The Worst Friend in the World by Anne Rellihan with an excerpt and giveaway. 

7. Rosi Hollinbeck reviews and has a GIVEAWAY of JUST KEEP WALKING. Rosi also shares three links of interest for her writing friends.

8. 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 RARE BIRDS.

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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

SHARK TEETH

Posted on February 4, 2024 by Greg Pattridge

Family. It’s the most important component growing up. Sharkita “Kita” Hayes has a family: A mom, along with a younger brother and sister. But this family is broken.

SHARK TEETH is a compelling and often heart breaking journey relayed through the emotional words of Kita. Her family is back together again after social services had placed the three kids in foster homes. Mom was unreliable, drank too much, and often left the family for days leaving Kita as the caregiver. Things will be different this time around. Or will they?

Although life is better, Kita is worried her mother might step back into not being a mother again. It’s up to Kita to keep the family together even if the pressure to do so is tearing apart this beautiful girl. How long can it possibly last?

The relationship she has with her two siblings is motherly in the best way. She cooks and cleans for them, along with being the lowing presence missing in this family.

The title refers to Kita’s teeth having never been fixed. They look like shark teeth so she rarely smiles without covering up. Her life also feels like she is being swallowed up whole by a shark and is deathly afraid of them, despite never being near sharks.

This hard to put down story had me turning the pages hoping the bad turns into good. My favorite of 2024 so far! Outstanding!

BOOK BIRTHDAY: January 16, 2024 PAGE COUNT: 304

FIVE MORE THINGS TO LIKE ABOUT: SHARK TEETH by Sherri Winston

  1. School provides the much needed support for Kita in the form of an assistant principal and a counselor/psychologist. She is not often open to their help in fear they will find out how her family really operates, but these are great people doing the job they love.
  2. Kita also has a fantastic group of friends. They support each other in the best ways. Laughing and being there for each other.
  3. Readers who may be in the same type of family, will find suggestions in how to cope with anxiety and panic attacks.
  4. Kita is a winning narrator. The intended MG audience will attach themselves to this strong girl as she tries to overcome terrible circumstances.
  5. Five-year-old Lilli is a little adult, often pushing Kita to make the right decisions. She along with her brother, Lamar, are essential to making the story work the way it does.

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Sherri Winston is the author of President of the Whole Fifth Grade (a Sunshine State Young Readers Award selection), President of the Whole Sixth Grade (a Kids’ Indie Next Pick), President of the Whole Sixth Grade: Girl Code, The Sweetest Sound (a Kirkus Best Book of the Year), Jada Sly: Artist & Spy, and The Kayla Chronicles. Before Sherri was an author, she was a longtime newspaper writer and columnist. She grew up in Michigan and now lives in Orlando, Florida.
www.sherriwinston.com
Twitter: @sherriwinston
Instagram: @iamsherriwinston

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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

OUR STORY BOOK SERIES

Posted on February 2, 2024 by Greg Pattridge

This new series gives fascinating insights into individuals who have done great things with their lives. What makes them unique is the names are probably ones you never heard of before.

North African Fatima Al-Fihri founded the University of Al-Qarawiyyin in Fez, Morocco. It is the oldest university in the world and was actually free when it first began!

Fatima’s story comes to life in just 40 brief pages. Each 2-page layout has 1-2 paragraphs on the left and a full color illustration on the right. The easy reading format will appeal to many young readers.

The back pages include some not to be missed extras. A discussion page begins with asking what 3 things readers could do to live in a more sustainable way. Next are directions to make a Moroccan lantern. Closing out the pages are a glossary. Pronucniation guide, and a QR code where you can learn more about the University.

One other book in the series is available. Both can be ordered through Our Story Media. A nice addition to your classroom or home library.

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It’s also GROUND HOG DAY. I’m not sure if Punxsutawney Phil saw his shadow this morning, but you can check my review from last year of The Great Weather Diviner. It’s a fun look at how the little guy became so famous .

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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.

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