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.

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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.

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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

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)

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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.

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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)

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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.

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(Make sure you put MMGM or Marvelous Middle Grade Monday in the subject line so it gets sorted accurately–and please don’t forget to say what book you’re featuring)
Thanks for spreading the middle grade love and for being a part of this awesome tradition begun by Shannon Messenger and carried on here at ALWAYS in the MIDDLE! (CLICK HERE FOR PAST MMGM POSTS)
*Please note: these posts are not a reflection of my own opinions on the books featured. Each blogger is responsible for their own MMGM content and I do not pre-screen reviews ahead of time, nor do I control what books they choose. I simply assemble the list based on the links that are emailed to me.
Posted in Book Lists, Middle Grade Book Reviews, MMGM Links | Tagged , , | 3 Comments

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)

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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 , , | Leave a comment

NIC BLAKE AND THE REMARKABLES: THE MANIFESTOR PROPHECY

Posted on April 2, 2023 by Greg Pattridge

Nic Blake is Remarkable in an Unremarkable World. It has its perks, like the pet hellhound she was given for her twelfth birthday, but it has its downfalls too – like not being trusted with magic because you might use it against an annoying neighbor. Nic wants to follow in her father’s footsteps and become a powerful Manifestor, but before she can convince him to show her how, he is being accused of crimes she refuses to believe he committed. Now, she must embark on a quest with two of her friends to find a magical tool she’s never heard of to save her father from imprisonment.

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Not only is Nic Blake remarkable but so is this first book in this new contemporary fantasy trilogy. Nic narrates her story that unfolds over 24 chapters. In the real world the engaging tale is set in Jackson, Mississippi with a side trip to New Orleans and a mysterious underground world.

Best friend JP and Alex (a possible new friend), join Nic as she searches for an unknown item called the Msaidixi. Dad has been arrested for allegedly stealing the artifact along with kidnapping Nic 10 years prior. Her only way of getting him released is finding the Msaidixi and returning it to the authorities.

It would have helped her quest if Dad had showed Nic how to use The Gift–something all Manifestors (the most powerful of the super natural Remarkables) have the ability to use. She could sure use it now as her life begins to unravel.

Tension filled, the writing is still full of timely humor and action throughout. The 368 pages zip by as readers are introduced to new creepy characters and a world like none other.

The ending leaves us wanting more as a few plot points tease with anticipation. It’s bound to be a series middle graders will love as much as this adult did.

FIVE MORE THINGS TO LIKE ABOUT–NIC BLAKE AND THE REMARKABLES: THE MANIFESTOR PROPHECY

  1. A great bonus was having the history and present day treatment of Black Americans woven into the story. Great discussion starter.
  2. Nic, JP, and Alex are the same age but each have distinct personalities. They are the perfect threesome to make this plot believable and entertaining.
  3. Her Uncle Ty writes a popular series that kids are always reading and anticipating the next book.. The plot of that series parallels what happens to Nic and friends. It’s a nice surprise as to why it turns out this way.
  4. One would think Nic’s pet, known as a hellhound, would be a vicious creature, but one look at the creature on the cover hints that it will be a charming companion. Cocoa is all that and more.
  5. Everyone needs a friend like JP. His introspective character shined and it will be a pleasure seeing where it goes next.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR (from Angie’s website)

Angie Thomas was born and raised in Mississippi, but now calls Atlanta her home. A former teen rapper, she holds a BFA in creative writing from Belhaven University. Her award-winning, acclaimed debut novel, The Hate U Give, is a #1 New York Times bestseller and major motion picture from Fox 2000, starring Amandla Stenberg and directed by George Tillman, Jr. Her second novel, On the Come Up, is on sale now.

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Comment below then be sure to visit all the other bloggers participating in this week’s edition of Marvelous Middle Grade Monday.

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

JUST GUS

Posted on March 31, 2023 by Greg Pattridge

A big dog named Gus narrates this sweet and compelling tale of friendship. His main job is to guard the livestock from predators on a South Carolina farm where he lives. It’s the kind of work Gus loves.

Little does he know his life is about to change. The first event is the day Diego and his dad visit the farm. Diego suffers from social anxiety and just being around Gus helps him feel better.

What happens next brings them closer. Gus is injured by a bear while protecting his flock. He’s hurt bad enough that it will take time to heal his injured leg. Gus’s instincts are to protect, but it’s not possible in his condition. Diego proposes the perfect solution to have Gus come live with them so he can rest and heal at their North Carolina coastal home.

Gus loves the ocean sand and water. A deeper connection with Diego is also happening. The quiet times they spend together are his favorite. But the neighbor hates Gus, especially the barking, and is doing anything and everything to remove this large dog from the neighborhood.

Gus and his best friend are separated once more, but not if Gus has his way.

The heartfelt narration shines throughout this well thought out plot. Gus tries to understand human ways through his eyes and ears. The silly game of chess humans play will never make sense, but not so for his job of being the emotional support to Diego. They need each other.

The tale will resonate with dog lovers and will win over anyone else. You’ll learn about emotional support dogs and mental health along with what a dog goes through to heal from injuries. A handy set of discussion questions are included in the back pages. JUST GUS is a timeless story that will be hard to keep on the shelves for long.

ABOUT AUTHOR, McCall Hoyle (from her author website)

When I’m not reading or writing, I’m probably spending time with my husband and children. There’s almost always a pet around too. We have a precious golden retriever named Apple and an adorable three-and-a-half legged cat named Jim, who holds the key to our hearts and makes a cameo appearance in my second young adult novel, Meet the Sky. 

I come from a long line of strong women. I’m named for my grandmother, “Pinkie”, who was the first female editor of an Associated Press newspaper. Her sister, my great-aunt, was a physics professor at Auburn University. They were women way ahead of their times, which I think is pretty cool. 

And then’s there’s my day job as a middle school teacher librarian, which I think is pretty much the most awesome job on the face of the planet. I get to connect kids with books. Could life possibly get better than that? And my students are like my extended family. We read, write, think, talk, and laugh every day. Every once in a while, we cry. (Yes, we’re that close.)

Checkout mccallhoylebooks on Instagram for the most up-to-date information on my reading, writing, and dog training. 

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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 Middle Grade Book Reviews, New Release | Tagged , , , | 5 Comments