Alternating first-person narration finds a perfect match with twins Maya and Chaya. This novel in verse explores what it is like when inseparable twins begin to go their own ways. Here’s the official preview:
Maya is the pragmatic twin, but her secret anxiety threatens to overwhelm her.
Chaya is the outgoing twin. When she sees her beloved sister suffering, she wants to tell their parents—which makes Maya feel completely betrayed. With Maya shutting her out, Chaya makes a dramatic change to give her twin the space she seems to need. But that’s the last thing Maya wants, and the girls just drift further apart.
The once-close sisters can’t seem to find their rhythm, so they make a bet: they’ll switch places at their summer camp, and whoever can keep the ruse going longer will get to decide where they both attend high school—the source of frequent arguments. But stepping into each other’s shoes comes with its own difficulties, and the girls don’t know how they’re going to make it.
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The flowing, verse style of writing is perfect to expose the deep emotions of each twin. There’s a younger brother they both care about and two loving parents who often don’t agree on the best way to raise these girls. Maya and Chaya have superb musical potential which also serves to separate them into different camps.
Lying, mental health, self harm, and the pursuit of one’s true identity are heavy topics brought forth in a superb way. The words bring understanding and compassion for what these twins face in their young life. The 352 pages flow by quickly with a unique layout of engaging chapter titles, text, and fonts.
Mirror to Mirror serves as a great read and also a great discussion starter for 11-13 year olds about hidden anxiety. Highly recommended.
FIVE MORE THINGS TO LIKE ABOUT: MIRROR TO MIRROR by RAJANI LaROCCA.
Superstitions can truly overwhelm those who believe in their power. This is vividly brought forth with Maya and a broken mirror.
On the surface the family appears perfect, but the story deftly unwraps the anxiety present underneath.
Anyone into music will like when Maya and Chaya attend a music camp in the summer.
Parental disagreements don’t always have to end in divorce as this tale shows. There are arguments but also growth as these parents work things out.
Friends Jay and Anisa provide interesting subplots to this family story. They are not equally liked and seen the same way by each twin.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Rajani LaRocca was born in India, raised in Kentucky, and now lives in the Boston area, where she practices medicine and writes award-winning books for young readers, including the Newbery Honor winning middle grade novel in verse, Red, White, and Whole. She’s always been an omnivorous reader, and now she is an omnivorous writer of fiction and nonfiction, novels and picture books, prose and poetry. She finds inspiration in her family, her childhood, the natural world, math, science, and just about everywhere she looks. Learn more about Rajani and her books at www.RajaniLaRocca.com and Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. She also co-hosts the STEM Women in KidLit Podcast.
I’m always on the lookout for exciting plots and endearing characters in books. It also helps if the setting and time period are captured beautifully without being over 300 pages long. THE ADVENTURES of the FLASH GANG is the winner on all accounts.
11-year-old Lewis Carter lives in 1935 Pittsburgh. He’s known as a streeter, a kid living on his own after his father disappeared. His home is currently an abandoned factory.
Lewis is the leader of the Flash Gang. That is a bit misleading since he is the only member, despite what the police and public believe. The Flash comes from a recipe his professor father created that causes a big distraction in the form of noise and light. He only uses it when in need of food that he steals while the commotion erupts. He is sure to donate some of that food to the local soup kitchen.
Some very shady adults are after Lewis so that they can get the Flash recipe. They intend to use it in a pro-Nazi plot. Enter one of the most unique characters in Pearl Alice Clavell dressed in her pick tutu. Together she and Lewis become an unusual team in an engaging mystery. Why hasn’t Lewis’s Father returned and how is he mixed up in the illegal dealings? Is the recipe even more powerful when in the wrong hands?
The action and danger flows in the third person narration through 26 chapters. You’ll be trying to figure out Pearl’s bizarre personality right alongside Lewis. He at first tries to get away from this girl but slowly they become a team in an entertaining read.
It will leave you wanting more and sure enough the second book in the trilogy (The Treacherous Tycoon) is due out January, 2024. For now enjoy this first book. Highly recommended.
About the Authors:
MM DOWNING & SJ WAUGH really intended to be secret agents disguised as flappers in the Roaring Twenties, if only to don beaded headbands and twirl long strands of pearls while solving delicious crimes involving gangsters. Or Scotland Yard detectives, wearing tailored, double-breasted suits, and sneaking up rickety fire escapes before pursuing criminals across the rooftops of Victorian London. Unfortunately, they were born in neither place, and without access to a time machine.
So they decided to write books.
If you too are a bit of a sleuth, you may uncover the other stories they’ve written separately and with (maybe) their full names—but here they are simply known as Downing & Waugh…which does sound just a bit like a detective agency…from another era.
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.
Welcome to the blog tour for Water! Why Every Drop Counts and How You Can Start Making Waves to Protect It. Did you know the water in your glass could be the same water the dinosaurs drank? Dive in for a week’s worth of interviews with fascinating “Water Warriors”, profiles on the latest H20-saving tech and learn incredible facts about Earth’s water, the challenges facing it, and how your actions can help defend this precious resource.
Inventing News Ways to Conserve
A Q & A with “Water Warriors” Calden Gounden and Kairan Chetty
The Stockholm Junior Water Prize is a prestigious youth award for a water-related science project. In 2019, Calden Gounden, 18, and Kairan Chetty, 18, were finalists in the competition. The teens traveled from their homes in South Africa to Sweden to demonstrate the water saving device they invented together, the Hydro Conservator.
At their school, part of the day is devoted to “guidance lessons,” a time when students can have informal discussions with their teachers. During one of these chats, Calden and Kairan’s teacher, Mr. Denli, brought up how water was becoming a scarce resource for many people and the importance of water conservation.
This got Kairan and Calden thinking. One morning, Calden noticed how much water flowed from the faucet while he was brushing his teeth. Similarly, as Kairan waited for the water in his shower to turn from cold to hot, he watched as the wasted water flowed down the drain.
They decided to put their heads together and work as a team to invent a device that would help reduce wasted water from bathroom showers and sinks.
The first part of the device is a three-way shower valve that conserves the cool water that would normally be wasted while someone waits for the water to get warm. This water is then heated, after which a valve opens, allowing it to flow out. The second part of the Hydro Conservator is a more affordable version of an automatic faucet that dispenses water only when your hand or toothbrush is underneath it.
“The automated tap has a sensor to reduce the amount of water wasted,” Calden says, “as often people leave the tap open whilst brushing their teeth, just like I did. Although there are automatic taps in use, they can be quite expensive, and we got it to be more cost effective by exploring cheaper parts.”
Here, Calden and Kairan talk more about why water conservation is so important—and their plans for changing the world.
Q: How did you develop the technology that you used for the Hydro Conservator?
Kairan: Once we fully identified what we wanted to achieve, it was a matter of finding the simplest combination of computer/microcontroller and electronic valves to build the proto‑ type. We had much heartache and many setbacks. In fact, we blew up two Raspberry Pi’s [a single-board computer], which actually worked in our favor, as we settled on a more cost-effective microcontroller. Then we had to develop the code to make everything work smoothly and control the relays to switch stuff off and on at the right times. We learned so much about what it takes to be an inventor.
Q: Why do you think it is important for people to conserve water?
Kairan: If we continue to waste and pollute the water we have, first, it will become scarce and expensive. Next, it will create conflict as each country tries to secure water for its citizens. This is not something we can leave for tomorrow; it is something we need to do right now. We did a brief assessment of the Hydro Conservator and found it has the potential to conserve more than 16 billion liters [4 billion gallons] of water per day in households that employ taps and showers throughout the world.
Q: What did you learn about yourselves and about water conservation during the process of creating the Hydro Conservator?
Calden: I have learned that if you put your mind to something, you can really create something amazing and also that hard work does pay off. I also learned that I am resilient and have the ability to make a difference. I learned that we need to collaborate across the world to share ideas and gain more insight into what we can do to conserve water—we are not alone. And I have learned that across the world, people waste large amounts of water and there is a lack of conservation and awareness, which is depleting our current limited water supply rapidly.
Kairan: I am determined more than ever to make a difference. I love looking at aspects of everyday life to see how they can be improved, and I will devote whatever skills I acquire to invent things to make the world a better place. Like every journey starts with a single step in the right direction, the Hydro Conservator for me is my first step.
Q: What would your advice be to other young people who would like to help create solutions to some of the environmental issues facing us today?
Kairan: It is important that you not leave your destiny in anyone else’s hands. Do not fear failure; it is a good way to learn new things. Be inquisitive and ask questions. Pursue your ideas with real energy. Research, dis‑ cuss, and build prototypes. Never be afraid to embrace differing points of view; readily collaborate to achieve success. Who knows? You may be sitting on an idea that is the next big invention, on the same scale as the wheel.
Calden: Look around you daily and find things you relate to, no matter where you live and your circum‑ stances. Find problems where you come from and that will help you to find the solutions needed. No idea is silly; we all can make a difference.
(ages 8-12, Paperback, National Geographic Kids Books)
Did you know the water in your glass could be the same water the dinosaurs drank? Discover more incredible facts about Earth’s water, the challenges facing it, and how your actions can help defend this precious resource.
No doubt about it, water is fascinating. It’s also essential. But our planet is facing some serious water problems: Drinkable water isn’t easily accessible to everyone, the demands for water around the globe are increasing while the supply is limited, and some human actions are causing disastrous ripple effects downstream for ecosystems and the animals that live in them.
Fortunately, there is hope! And that’s where this book comes in. By learning the ins and outs of important water issues and making small but powerful changes in our daily life, we can help protect the water that connects us all on our beautiful blue planet.
Features include:
· What kids can do right now to combat climate change · How to make a water filter at home and other fun activities · How small changes in your daily routine can equal big water savings · Q&A’s with “Water Warriors” from around the world · Special reports on “pulled-from-the-headlines” events that have recently impacted water and water supply, like the impact of war on water supply, the socio-economic implications of the water issues in Flint, MI, and how the residents of Cape Town South Africa pulled together to avoid “Day Zero.”
Water! is a fascinating look at Earth’s water and a call to action to young readers to help safeguard it.
About the Author:
Lisa M. Gerry is a writer and reporter who began her career as an intern at National Geographic Traveler magazine. She has since authored numerous books for National Geographic Kids, including Puppy Love and several installments of the 100 Things to . . . series. She has also worked as a writer for Time, Forbes, and Business Insider.
DR. SANDRA POSTEL (expert contributor) directs the Global Water Policy Project and is a National Geographic Explorer. She is a frequent lecturer, author, and consultant on global water issues, and in 2021, she won the prestigious Stockholm Water Prize, often described as the Nobel Prize for water. She is the author of Replenish: The Virtuous Cycle of Water and Prosperity;Pillar of Sand: Can the Irrigation Miracle Last?; and Last Oasis: Facing Water Scarcity, which appears in eight languages and was the basis for a PBS documentary.
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.
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If you would like to join in the MMGM fun and get your own spot in the parade, all you have to do is blog about a middle grade book you love on a Monday (contests, author interviews and whatnot also count–but are most definitely not required) and email me the title of the book you’re featuring 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 please don’t forget to say what book 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.
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.
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
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.
Marjan’s connection with new friend, Sebastian, a British boy who grew up with a griffon, makes for a wonderful character arc for both.
The story teaches about respect for every human and living creature in a very creative way.
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.
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.
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.
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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If you would like to join in the MMGM fun and get your own spot in the parade, all you have to do is blog about a middle grade book you love on a Monday (contests, author interviews and whatnot also count–but are most definitely not required) and email me the title of the book you’re featuring 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 please don’t forget to say what book 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.
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.
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
The story is so engaging is will increase interest by young readers in learning more about this time period in our history.
The ending is abrupt after 176 pages, but it is a satisfying one.
Simonetta is a new friend who helps Antonio. She is a real gem and not afraid to do what is needed to provide assistance.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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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If you would like to join in the MMGM fun and get your own spot in the parade, all you have to do is blog about a middle grade book you love on a Monday (contests, author interviews and whatnot also count–but are most definitely not required) and email me the title of the book you’re featuring 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 please don’t forget to say what book 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.
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.
It’s easy to get a spot in the lineup. Email me the title of the book or feature for any middle grade book, author or giveaway, and a link to your blog. Send it to: 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 that week’s MMGM.
*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.
to reach a blogger’s post.
to reach a blogger’s middle grade post.
Always in the Middle... 