MMGM for April 24, 2023

Posted on April 24, 2023 by Greg Pattridge

Don’t let this month slip away before enjoying some great middle grade reviews and features. Click on to reach a blogger’s post.

At ALWAYS in the MIDDLE I have a review of ONCE THERE WAS by Kiyash Monsef. You can also check out my review from last Friday: ADVENTURE KINGDOM: A KNIGHT OF THE REALM.

Brenda at Log Cabin Library has a fun summertime read in The Firefly Summer by Morgan Matson.

Kasey Giard at The Story Sanctuary is back with a review of the graphic novel A WORK IN PROGRESS by Jarrett Lerner.

Maria Antonia has a post about FIELD TRIPPED by Allan Woodrow.

Faith Hough turns the reviewing reigns over to her 15-year-old daughter, Lucy, with a look at The Wingfeather Saga, by Andrew Peterson.

Valinora Troy reviews  the upcoming new release: The Thief of Farrowfell by Ravena Guron.

Karen Yingling at Mrs. Yingling Reads always has a fantastic MMGM book to share like the one for this week: AUDREY COVINGTON BREAKS THE RULES.

———————————————————————

(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

ONCE THERE WAS

Posted on April 23, 2023 by Greg Pattridge

Once there was an engaging fantasy that enthralled readers worldwide…and now we have a new contender. This imaginative tale with an intricate murder plot will leave readers wanting more.

High school sophomore, Marjan, is dealing with way too much. After her father was murdered she’s having to run his veterinary practice which is on the brink of going out of business. Of course there’s also school adding to her list of responsibilities.

Things get real interesting when a visitor reveals that her dad was no ordinary vet. He in fact cared for mythical beasts all over the world, but now Marjan will be taking his place. Her knowledge only goes so far as being beside her father when he took care of regular pets.

She’s thrust into a world hidden to most everyone else. Magical creatures do indeed exist and they are captured, bought and sold in a secret network. Marjan has a connection with each one and seems to know what to do when called away to help one that is sick or injured. Creatures like a unicorn, griffon, and a fox with nine tails to name a few. There are even more surprises when she goes to the hidden estate of Horatio Pendergast who has dozens of these animals stored in underground cells.

Marjan is now having to juggle responsibilities of a double life. Her friends at school are asking a lot of questions she can’t answer. There’s also a private investigator helping Marjan find out who killed her father- a truth tied to a life ending danger humans and beasts could face.

I can’t say much more in order to keep the surprises for readers. There is one question being asked about ONCE THERE WAS as to whether it is MG or YA. The teasers about the book claim it is for “All Ages” or (10 and up). I disagree. The main character is 15 and the hardback edition tops out a a whopping 416 pages of a very involved plot. Her father’s murder is only the first death and the creatures are not the kind you put on your lap to cuddle. There’s also the subject of (as a neighbor parent always asks): “Are there any cuss words?” I did count maybe 10-12 instances but none above what you would find in a PG-13 rated movie. So in conclusion I’d reserve this one for middle school and up, about ages 12- adult.

If this is for you then be prepared for an unforgettable magical journey.

FIVE MORE THINGS TO LIKE ABOUT: ONCE THERE WAS by KIYASH MONSEF

  1. As I got a quarter of the way through the story, my first thought was this would make a great movie. Sure enough Ron Howard’s Imagine Entertainment picked up the screen rights to develop a future big screen film.
  2. Marjan’s emotional first person narration are interspersed with chapters covering the background of how these beasts came into our world, based on the stories her father told her as a young girl. Brings the plot a much deeper meaning.
  3. Marjan’s connection with new friend, Sebastian, a British boy who grew up with a griffon, makes for a wonderful character arc for both.
  4. The story teaches about respect for every human and living creature in a very creative way.
  5. The writing is lyrical at times and oh so good. Quite the achievement for a debut novel.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR–KIYASH MONSEF

I grew up in northern California in a house on the slope of a forested ravine, with my parents, my Iranian grandmother, and my younger brother. My earliest creative influences were the Dungeons and Dragons Monster Manual, D’Aulaires Book of Greek Myths, and Tom McGowen’s Encyclopedia of Legendary Creatures.

After I finished college, I spent twenty years working in media. I produced Emmy-nominated television, wrote short stories, comic books, and games, and designed conversational and voice interface experiences.

Now, I live with my family on the slope of a forested ravine in northern California, and think about monsters and legendary creatures.

Kiyash Monsef Author Website

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

COMMENTS ARE WELCOME BELOW AND BE SURE TO SPEND TIME WITH ALL THE OTHER MMGM BLOGGERS POSTING THIS WEEK.

Posted in MG Fantasy | Tagged , , | 5 Comments

ADVENTURE KINGDOM: A KNIGHT OF THE REALM

Posted on April 21, 2023 by Greg Pattridge

The popularity of graphic novels is growing by leaps and bounds. Young readers can’t get enough of this colorful story telling approach.

The second book in the Adventure Kingdom series, A Knight of the Realm, is another fun and exciting addition to your shelves. The story can be read on it’s own, but you’ll probably go back and read the first to find out how this magical theme park got its start.

Clark and Karoline return along with a little girl who has lost her parents. They all end up, via a wishing well portal, to another theme park world where everyone is urged to drink snake oil. Doing so and your mind is controlled by the evil doers. It will be up to these kids to put a stop to the madness.

Bright, detailed images fill the pages and are a real draw for new middle grade readers not quite ready for text intensive novels. Adventure Kingdom A Knight at the Realm hints at more adventures to come along with a sneak peak at another Epic graphic series.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR (From Steve’s author website)

Steve Foxe is the author of over 75 comics and children’s books including X-Men ‘92: House of XCII, Archer & Armstrong Forever, Rainbow Bridge, Party & Prey, Adventure Kingdom, and the Spider-Ham series from Scholastic. He is the co-creator of Razorblades: The Horror Magazine alongside James Tynion IV, and is the editor of the Eisner-nominated The Department of Truth at Image Comics. In the world of licensed kids books, he has written for properties like Pokémon, Mario, LEGO City, Batman, Justice League, Baby Shark, and many more.

He lives somewhere cold, where he tweets about comics, scary movies, his boyfriend, and their dog at @steve_foxe.

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

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 , , | 4 Comments

MMGM for April 17, 2023

Posted on April 17, 2023 by Greg Pattridge

The stars have aligned for some great reviews and features. Click on to reach a blogger’s middle grade post.

At ALWAYS in the MIDDLE I have a review of THE BOY AND THE SPY by Felice Arena. You can also read my review from last Friday about DEAD ALLEY by S.A. Larsen.

Brenda at Log Cabin Library hosts the Blog Tour for THE CARREFOUR CURSE by Dianne K. Salerni + Giveaway!

Kasey Giard at The Story Sanctuary joins us for the first time! Be sure to say hello and check out Kasey’s featured review of the book Betrayal by the Book (The Swallowtail Legacy #2) by Michael D. Beil.

Andrea Mack treats us to a look at The Things Owen Wrote by Jessica Scott Kerrin.

Maria Antonia has a post about ACROSS THE DESERT by Dusti Bowling.

Faith Hough reviews the graphic novel, SQUISHED, by Megan Wagner Lloyd (About a family with seven kids).

Valinora Troy reviews THE CHESTNUT ROASTER.

Rosi Hollinbeck reviews HAZEL HILL IS GONNA WIN THIS ONE. 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 Friday’s 3 book reviews in the post, GUYS GOING TO THE DOGS.

———————————————————————

(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 BOY AND THE SPY

Posted on April 16, 2023 by Greg Pattridge

I know several middle grade kids who open a new book and will read just the first page before declaring “this is boring.” That won’t be a problem when I hand them the exciting and compelling THE BOY AND THE SPY.

Check out the opener:

The boy is running as fast as he can.
And right behind him is a German soldier.
They charge through a flock of flapping pigeons.
“Halt! Halt!” the soldier bellows. He yells at the boy to stop, first in German, then Italian. “Did you hear me? Stop, or I will shoot!”
But the boy doesn’t stop. In fact, he runs faster, his scuffed and well-worn shoes pounding hard on the cobblestones.

It only gets more intense from here in this well thought out historical fiction tale set in WWII Italy. Although the characters are fiction, the time period of WWII is very real.

Antonio is a young boy who meets an injured American spy named Chris. Antonio vows to help the American get back to allied safety. This despite putting himself and others in grave danger since the town of Sicily is German occupied. Danger is around every corner but brave Antonio pushes forth. His gift of drawing vivid pictures in his notebook bring calm to his surrounding along with helping the spy.

FIVE MORE THINGS TO LIKE ABOUT: THE BOY AND THE SPY

  1. The story is so engaging is will increase interest by young readers in learning more about this time period in our history.
  2. The ending is abrupt after 176 pages, but it is a satisfying one.
  3. Simonetta is a new friend who helps Antonio. She is a real gem and not afraid to do what is needed to provide assistance.
  4. Antonio was abandoned as a baby and adopted. He does not belong in this town as the citizens constantly remind him. The emotion of how this plays out along with the failing health of his adopted parent brings many gut wrenching scenes.
  5. Chapter titles are in both Italian and English. A perfect way to keep the setting as a constant reminder.

THE BOY AND THE SPY is a fast-paced riveting tale and one that is hard to put down. EPIC Historic Adventure series has two other titles by the same author:

Click on either book for more information.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR (Felice Arena)

In addition to being a prolific writer of children’s books, Felice Arena is also an accomplished actor, public speaker and artist.

​In the Nineties he played Marco Alessi in the TV soap opera Neighbours for a year before heading off to pursue a musical theatre career in London. During his time in the UK he starred in West End musicals Hair, Godspell and What a Feeling. 

​It was in this period he began to write, sparked by nostalgia for his boyhood days in country Victoria. Felice’s debut novel, a story about a dolphin and a swimmer set in Australia, was picked up by a UK publisher, and he hasn’t looked back since.

​Felice’s books have topped bestseller lists and garnered several awards, including six Australian Children Choice Book Awards. ​Some of these include the Andy Roid series, the much-loved junior reader books Sporty Kids and The Besties, the cheeky read-aloud picture book Poo And Other Words That Make Me Laugh!, the hugely popular Specky Magee series, his acclaimed historical adventures and CBCA notable books The Boy and the Spy, Fearless Frederic , A Great Escape, and most recently his moving and inspiring middle-grade novel The Unstoppable Flying Flanagan.

​Felice’s books have also been published in the UK, USA, Ireland, New Zealand, Vietnam, Taiwan, Japan, and China. (For more visit Felice’s Website)

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

COMMENTS ARE WELCOME BELOW.

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


Posted in Historical fiction, Middle Grade Book Reviews | Tagged , , | 8 Comments

DEAD ALLEY

Posted on April 14, 2023 by Greg Pattridge

More than 6 years has passed since I reviewed the opening book in this series, MOTLEY EDUCATION. The feeling I had when finishing that story was anxious anticipation for what would happen next for main characters, Ebony and Fleishman, and their many challenges in this mysterious and ghostly setting.

What took so long for Dead Alley to make an appearance on the shelves?

S.A. Larsen explains it all in her author notes and not only was there COVID that caused a delay but also a shift in publishers. The wait is over and the sequel adds more tension and understanding to this world and characters. Here’s what to expect:

Sixth-graders Ebony Charmed and Will Fleishman are up to their graves with spirit training. That’s their reward for saving Motley Junior High from a fiery serpent. More homework.

But that didn’t stop them from secretly casting spells to find the dark elf that stole their friend Lance’s body. They certainly couldn’t leave it to Motley authorities. The last time Ebony left things to adults, her mother lied to her and a fire giant kidnapped her father (which she still believes is her fault).

When undead crows invade the boneyard and strange flower petals infect the ghost residents, they realize they are in over their heads. Clues point to Dead Alley – the forbidden section of the boneyard – where the dead have begun to be not so dead. When Lance’s spirit goes full-on berserker, the duo must find a cure. Before the infected ghosts turn zombie and Lance remains trapped there forever.

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

Since so much time had passed since that first book, I was glad to see a summary of the characters in the pages leading up to the main story. Even better were the back pages where Facts and Whatnot cover the Nine Worlds, Mythical Creatures and Characters, a Glossary, and many other highlights that immediately put me back at Motley Junior High. I strongly urge new readers to start with the first book though to gain full knowledge of the background, characters, and plot before diving into this one.

The excellent world building continues in Dead Alley. I found myself going back and rereading many of the beautifully written scenes. The depth and word choice gives readers a sense of being in the graveyard watching each scene unfold.

The third person narration alternates between Ebony, Fleishman, and their nemesis, Elli. It’s a perfect way to present the tale. Surrounded by a backdrop of Norse Mythology, the theme of trust level with friends will resonate with young readers. The ending hints there is more story to tell.

Gives this series a go and you will discover a creepy and engaging tale sure to please. A full out entertaining plot in a paranormal world.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

As a little girl, S.A. Larsen believed her closet held secret passageways to magical worlds brimming with all sorts of creepy creatures – her favorite kind. Sheri never did find a ghoul or a goblin in her closet, only a half-eaten fluffernutter that her brother repurposed as a hockey puck. Her debut novel MOTLEY EDUCATION (former Leap Books, 2016) was released as a second edition by Ellysian Press, 2019. The book is an international multiple award-winning, fantasy-adventure for middle grade readers; this is the first book in the series. She’s also the author of MARKED BEAUTY (Ellysian Press, 2017), a contemporary-fantasy romance for young adults – also an award-winning novel. Her other published works can be found in young adult anthologies, community interest newspapers, and sports magazines (youth athletes/actors). Giving back to her writing community is important to her, and she does so as a @MixedUpFiles interview & giveaway coordinator, #MGLitchat co-host, and writing mentor for First Five Pages under Adventures in YA Publishing. She’s also part of the #SpookyMG crew over on spookymiddlegrade.com, where she partakes in a #SpookySkypePanel that visits classrooms around the world to chat about reading, writing, books, and more! When she’s not chasing her characters around a cemetery or antagonizing them with the wonders of young love, she can be found in the land of lobsters and snowy winters with her husband and four children (yes, they all play hockey), a playful German Shepherd, and three kittens. 

(For more visit Sheri’s author website)

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

I hope you will join us next week! 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 participate. 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 , , | 4 Comments

MMGM for April 10, 2023

Posted on April 10, 2023 by Greg Pattridge

My Easter basket is full so crack open each Egg to see what I found.

At ALWAYS in the MIDDLE I have a review of UNICORN ISLAND-BEYOND THE PORTAL by Donna Galanti. Your can also check out my review of Bright Family Vacation from last Friday.

Natalie Aguirre at Literary Rambles features an interview with debut author Meg Eden Kuyatt and a giveaway of her MG  contemporary Good Different.

Brenda at LOG CABIN LIBRARY reviews Tiger Warrior:  Rise of the Lion Beast by M. Chan illustrated by Alan Brown.

Carol Baldwin shares Four graphic novels about the Holocaust.

Stephanie Robinson at Fairday’s Blog also checks in with a review of the new title, Unicorn Island: Beyond the Portal by Donna Galanti.

Maria Antonia talks about the resurrection in books from this encore post.

Susan Uhlig loved the 2021 Newbery Honor book, A WISH IN THE DARK, by Christina Soontornvat.

Suzanne Warr shares a report on the SCBWINYC23 conference with notes from a workshop, plus a spotlight on the book read in preparation for the workshop–A Wish in the Dark, by Christina Soontornvat.

Karen Yingling at Mrs. Yingling Reads always has a fantastic MMGM book to share. Be sure to check it out along with Saturday’s review of Parachute Kids.

———————————————————————

(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

UNICORN ISLAND – Beyond the Portal

Posted on April 9, 2023 by Greg Pattridge

The enchanting and heartwarming series comes to a close. Here’s what to expect in this third and final book:

When Sam and Tuck discover a way to unlock the answers they’ve been seeking, they must set out to discover the truth…
For Sam, knowing a little about her mother’s disappearance through the portal is almost worse than knowing nothing at all. Determined to distract herself, she tries to learn everything possible about caring for the herd on Unicorn Island. But when she and her friend Tuck stumble on a coded verse in The Unicorn Protector Creed, they are faced with an even greater task. With no way of knowing what’s beyond it, Sam, Tuck, and Barloc the unicorn step through the portal and find that not only is Sam’s mother no longer a unicorn protector, she also lives in a world plagued by its own problems—and convinced that the only solution to them rests in the horn on Barloc’s head. With the portal closing at sundown on the third day, Sam and Tuck are in a race to rescue their friend, reunite their families, and save another world from a terrible fate of its own making! 

UNICORN ISLAND Beyond the Portal is an engaging finale to this epic series. I previously featured the first and second book here at ALWAYS in the MIDDLE. I suggest starting from the beginning so as to not miss out on any of the background details or plot points.

Sam and Tuck’s journey through the portal to a different place is full of twists and turns sure to engage young readers. I love when a series draws a fitting conclusion, leaving no open plot points. Beyond the Portal succeeds in dazzling fashion. Themes of family and friendship are embedded not only with the human characters but also the beloved unicorn, Barloc.

Most of the story takes place in the mysterious town of Crag Haven. Sam and Tuck find answers but also the possibility of being trapped there. Left behind are worried families who have no idea where they have gone. In page turning fashion the trilogy closes on a high note. No spoilers here.

The Unicorn Island series is the perfect match for grade 4 and up, especially those less enthusiastic readers. Story telling at its finest!

FIVE MORE THINGS TO LIKE ABOUT: UNICORN ISLAND, Beyond the Portal by Donna Galanti

The bold and beautiful illustrations appear throughout, many in full page splendor. Bravo to Bethany Stancliffe for making her images connect so well with the story.

The character arcs for not only Sam and Tuck, but also for Sylvia, Sam’s mother. They are perfectly crafted.

The extra pages in the back delve into THE HISTORY OF CODED MESSAGES; THE IMPORTANCE OF WATER; COLIC; HORSEBACK RIDING; and THE HEALING POWERS OF UNICORN HORNS. Great addition for readers.

The text layout and typeset is appealing to the eyes. Most novels these days in the under 13 category can be packed with 250-300 words per page. Unicorn Island brings it closer to 150, making the pages much more manageable for a new reader of novels.

Great adventures need compelling characters, an extraordinary situation, and a journey of discovery. Unicorn Island Beyond the Portal hits the mark on all three.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Donna Galanti wanted to be a writer ever since she wrote a mystery screenplay at seven and acted it out with the neighborhood kids. She attended an English school, housed in a magical castle, where her wild imagination was held back only by her itchy uniform (bowler hat and tie included!). There, she wrote her first fantasy about Dodo birds, wizards, and a flying ship––and has been writing fantasy ever since. She’s lived in other exotic locations, including her family-owned campground in New Hampshire and in Hawaii where she served as a U.S. Navy photographer. She now lives with her family and two crazy cats in an old farmhouse and dreams of returning one day to a castle. Donna is the author of the middle-grade fantasy adventure, Joshua and The Lightning Road. She is also a writing contest judge, guest author at schools, and a teacher at writing conferences on marketing and craft. (For more about Donna, visit her author website)

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

COMMENTS ARE WELCOME BELOW.

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

Posted in Middle Grade Book Reviews | Tagged , , | 16 Comments

BRIGHT FAMILY VACATION

Posted on April 7, 2023 by Greg Pattridge

After searching for each other throughout the multiverse and repairing their interdimensional portals together, the Bright family is ready for a vacation! But relaxing days riding water slides and eating space ramen are put on hold when the portal drops them deep in the jungle on an unknown planet rather than at the door of the luxury resort. Told through multigenerational storytelling, the Brights are about to figure out that space travel is a lot like space ramen: It always leaves adventurers wanting more.

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

Bright Family Vacation is the second graphic book in Epic’s Bright Family series but can be enjoyed on its own. The comic style format is perfect for emerging middle grade readers.

The Bright family includes parents Banira and Benjamin, children Jayden and Nia, and talented musician, Grandpa Winston. Although the family vacation does not go as planned, the theme of family and caring for each other is strong throughout.

Colorful, bold illustrations bring out the emotional expressions to each face ranging from overwhelming happiness to tension filled concern. The book will make a great companion to those upcoming summer trips. Readers will for sure have a lot of smiles as the pages turn.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR/ILLUSTRATOR

Gabe Soria is the creator of the Midnight Arcade series and the co-creator of the comic book MegaGhost. His other works include DC Comics’ Batman ’66, Fakespeare in the Park, a tie-in novel for Cartoon Network’s Regular Show, and the best-selling Audible Original Foreverywhere, created with Steve Burns of Blue’s Clues and Steven Drozd of the band the Flaming Lips. He lives in New Orleans, where he’s currently writing an original fantasy adventure trilogy for Penguin Workshop.

Rafa Ribs is a Brazilian artist currently living in São Paulo. He has worked as a character designer and visual development artist for animation and games for the last six years. He loves drawing imaginary universes and filling them with otherworldly characters and stories.

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

Join us next week for another Marvelous Middle Grade Monday! 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 join 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 , , , | 2 Comments

MMGM for April 3, 2023

Posted on April 3, 2023 by Greg Pattridge

Before you get too busy this week hop on over and view a blogger’s middle grade review or feature. Click on a bunny to get started.

At ALWAYS in the MIDDLE I have a review of Nic Blake and the Remarkables: The Manifestor Prophecy by Angie Thomas.

Kim Aippersbach returns with a review of THE SCHOOL BETWEEN WINTER AND FAIRYLAND.

Jennifer Bohnhoff shares a great selection of baseball books in her post, PLAY BALL! Perfect timing with the first week of the baseball season in full swing.

Carol Baldwin shares her review of GARVEY’S CHOICE. Also included is a GIVEAWAY opportunity for this verse novel.

Sue Heavenrich is over at Archimedes Notebook with a review of the nonfiction MG, The Lady and the Octopus: How Jeanne Villepreux-Power Invented Aquariums and Revolutionized Marine Biology by Danna Staaf.

Linda Browne shares another Bookcase Bizarro of children’s book reviews for March.

Maria Antonia has another Newbery Verdict post: HOOT by Carl Hiaasen.

Faith Hough shares her critique of Noah’s Gold, by Frank Cottrell-Boyce.

Valinora Troy reviews Artemis Spark and the Sound Seekers Brigade.

Karen Yingling at Mrs. Yingling Reads always has a fantastic MMGM book to share. Be sure to check it out along with yesterday’s review of MIRACLE.

———————————————————————

(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 , , | Leave a comment