Louisa June and the Nazis in the Waves

Posted on May 29, 2022 by Greg Pattridge

If you like historical novels, especially those centered around WWII, then this unique title will be just the ticket you need. Louisa June and the Nazis in the Waves is set in Virginia where the vast waters it borders have become a hazard to everyone living there. The history is boldly exposed as to how Nazi U-boat submarines sank nearly 400 U.S. freighters and tankers off the eastern coastline. Here’s the book jacket synopsis:

Days after Japan’s attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941, Hitler declared war on the U.S., unleashing U-boat submarines to attack American ships. Suddenly, the waves outside Louisa June’s farm aren’t for eel-fishing or marveling at wild swans or learning to skull her family’s boat—they’re dangerous, swarming with hidden enemies.

Her oldest brothers’ ships risk coming face-to-face with U-boats. Her sister leaves home to weld Liberty Boat hulls. And then her daddy, a tugboat captain, and her dearest brother, Butler, are caught in the crossfire.

Her mama has always swum in a sea of melancholy, but now she really needs Louisa June to find moments of beauty or inspiration to buoy her. Like sunshine-yellow daffodils, good books, or news accounts of daring rescues of torpedoed passengers.

Determined to help her Mama and aching to combat Nazis herself, Louisa June turns to her quirky friend Emmett and the indomitable Cousin Belle, who has her own war stories—and a herd of cats—to share. In the end, after a perilous sail, Louisa June learns the greatest lifeline is love.

The first person narration by Louisa is a perfect way to tell the story of this little known event in U.S. history. It was all new to me. Centered around Louisa’s family the scenes show how depression lacked treatment options in the 1940’s along with the devastating effects of war. Louisa exhibits bravery but also emotional setbacks.

L.M. Elliot has crafted a well researched and important look at how the effects of World War impacted the home front. Although recommended for grades 3-7, the majority of readers will likely be from those in middle school.

BOOK BIRTHDAY: March 22, 2022 PAGE COUNT: 320

FIVE MORE THINGS TO LIKE ABOUT LOUISA JUNE AND THE NAZIS IN THE WAVES by L.M. Elliott

  1. Don’t skip the 17-page author note in the back. There you will get a deeper understanding of the historical aspects along with resources for those suffering from depression in today’s world.
  2. Cousin Belle is a take charge kind of woman and she’s hard not to like. So many good things in this person and Louisa is lucky to have her support.
  3. The harrowing climatic ending scene will have you gripping the book in anticipation of the dangers unfolding.
  4. The realization mental illness in the 40’s was more of a hidden condition. All you could do was hope the person got better with whatever had taken over their normal way of living. Thankfully, things have progressed the past 80 years though we still have a long way to go.
  5. The fact that war effects more than just those fighting. It’s the children who often feel helpless in doing anything but Louisa can’s sit back and do nothing. Her emotions in every situation are honest and hard to predict. A great character arc here.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

L. M. Elliott was an award-winning Washington-based magazine journalist, covering women’s issues, mental health, and the performing arts, before becoming a New York Times best-selling author of historical and biographical fiction. Her novels explore a variety of eras (the Italian Renaissance, the American Revolutionary War, WWII, and the Cold War), and are written for a variety of ages. Many of her works have been named NCSS/CBC Notables (National Council of Social Studies and Children’s Book Council), Bank Street College Best Books, Jefferson Cup Honor Books, Kirkus Bests, and Grateful American Book Prize winners. Elliott holds a BA from Wake Forest University and a master’s in journalism from UNC-Chapel Hill. She is a lifelong Virginian and history-lover.

(For more visit the author’s web page)

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I received a copy of the book to use for my honest review. Comments are welcome below.

Posted in Historical fiction, Middle Grade Book Reviews | Tagged , , , , | 10 Comments

JUST JOKING SCIENCE

Posted on May 27, 2022 by Greg Pattridge

This new JUST JOKING title centers around the world of science. The often corny one liners are perfect time fillers for ages 7-10.

  • WHY DID T-REX CROSS THE ROAD? (Because the chicken didn’t exist yet.)
  • WHAT DID THE BOTANIST GET WHEN SHE CROSSED POISON IVY AND A FOUR-LEAF CLOVER? (A rash of good luck)
  • WHERE DOES LIGHT GO WHEN IT BREAKS THE LAW? (To prism)

Those teasers are only 1% of the total number so expect hours to complete the whole package of guffaws. Readers will be repeating the best to family and friends.

Here’s the official description:

This hilarious new book in the kid-favorite Just Joking series-packed with 300 science-themed jokes, riddles, knock-knocks, tongue twisters, and more-is scientifically proven to leave kids laughing, chuckling, and exclaiming “Eureka!” It’s got jokes about all kinds of science stuff-kooky chemistry, funny physics, dinosaurs, space, and more-plus 10 stories of real-life scientific experiments that are so wacky you’ll hardly believe them! This book is a gut-busting party-starter or a quiet-time entertainer, great for chuckling alone or reading aloud to friends and family. It’s also perfectly portable: Toss it in a backpack or take it on the road for on-the-go giggles. The perfect read for science whizzes (and whiz wannabes), kid comedians, and laughter-lovers of all ages.

It’s not all jokes as descriptions of 10 actual experiments scientists have carried out are a welcome addition. They aren’t your normal experiments but ones with a fun set-up like…

  • Do pigeons understand the human concept of good art?
  • Do chimps realize when a human is imitating them?
  • Is it possible to break a spaghetti noodle into two unbroken pieces?

The pages of JUST JOKING SCIENCE are full of colorful pictures. At slightly more than 6 by 6 inches, the book will for sure get passed around to family and neighbors. A true summer time treat.

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Blogging about middle grade books or authors next week? Join the celebration.

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 Middle Grade Book Reviews, non fiction | Tagged , | 4 Comments

MMGM for May 23, 2022

Posted on May 23, 2022 by Greg Pattridge

You’ll never hear those words in the upcoming summer months after choosing a few titles from this week’s selection of reviews and features!!

Click on to view a blogger’s post.

At ALWAYS in the MIDDLE I have a review of THE TITANIC TUNNEL by Glen Blackwell.

Natalie Aguirre at Literary Rambles shares a guest post by agent/author Natalie Lakosil and Tracy Badau with a giveaway of Tracy’s middle grade contemporary Freddie vs. The Family Curse and a query critique by Natalie.

June McCrary Jacobs at Reading, Writing, and Stitch-Metic has a feature about Armed Forces Day including an encore post of a book about the Tuskegee Airmen.

Carol Baldwin invites young Elliott Kurta back as he reviews the first four books in the UPSIDE DOWN MAGIC series by Sarah Mlynoski, Lauren Myracle, and Emily Jenkins.

Maria Antonia shares her Newbery verdict on HOLES by Louis Sachar.

Valinora Troy reviews MURDER ON THE SAFARI STAR by M.G. Leonard and Sam Sedgman.

Patricia Tilton at Children’s Books Heal is back and shares a book for Asian American and Pacific Islander Month — Dream, Annie, Dream by Waka T. Bown.

Rosi Hollinbeck reviews DOG STAR by Megan Sheperd. 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 her other reviews plus a special pictorial look of Mrs. Yingling’s Library.

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(Make sure you put MMGM or Marvelous Middle Grade Monday in the subject line so it gets sorted accurately–and please don’t forget to say what book you’re featuring)
Thanks for spreading the middle grade love and for being a part of this awesome tradition begun by Shannon Messenger and carried on here at ALWAYS in the MIDDLE! (CLICK HERE FOR PAST MMGM POSTS)
*Please note: these posts are not a reflection of my own opinions on the books featured. Each blogger is responsible for their own MMGM content and I do not pre-screen reviews ahead of time, nor do I control what books they choose. I simply assemble the list based on the links that are emailed to me.
Posted in Book Lists, Middle Grade Book Reviews, MMGM Links | Tagged , , | 2 Comments

THE TITANIC TUNNEL

Posted on May 22, 2022 by Greg Pattridge

The historical fiction tag first peaked my interest for this title. Other than a certain popular movie and an ample supply of non-fiction accounts of the unfortunate tragedy, I’d come across very few fictional stories for middle graders about Titanic’s final voyage.

This is the second book in the Jack and Emmie series after they visited 1940 London in The Blitz Bus. The Titanic Tunnel is a separate story so you’ll have no problem if you choose to start here as your first adventure. It begins when Jack and Emmie are on a school field trip.

Visiting Belfast to see where Titanic was built, they step back to 1912 and discover the great ship itself. All too soon, they find out that the way home is blocked, and Jack gets dragged off to work by one of the crew. Who is the mysterious stranger lurking in the shadows, and can they solve his time riddle to escape from the doomed ship before it is too late…?

The third person narration follows their journey. They plan to disembark before the glorious ship sinks, but after Emmie meets Mary and her family, she decides to help them be saved despite their status as 3rd class passengers. Those privileged to be in First class have priority on everything, including who eventually lives or dies as there are not enough life boats to accommodate all passengers.

Time is ticking down and the fast paced plot will keep you guessing right to the end as to whether history is changed. There you will find out if Jack and Emmie get back to the present or go down with the ship.

BOOK BIRTHDAY: May 12, 2022 PAGE COUNT: 260

FIVE THINGS TO LIKE ABOUT—THE TITANIC TUNNEL by Glen Blackwell

1. Details about the separate classes on the Titanic will be surprising to young readers. Based on your class level, you had certain rights and locations where you go on the ship. The upper class also got the best cabins on the top decks while the less privileged were crammed into lower deck quarters.

2. The true life story of young Mary was a unique twist saved for the final pages.

3. You’ll discover the reasons why the unsinkable Titanic never should have been labeled that way.

4. The story focused on the tough life working on an ocean liner, especially for the employees in the kitchen. There they spent long hours preparing and serving thousands of passengers and crew.

5. The story encourages readers to find more research into the sinking of the Titanic. A good place to start would be last years non-fiction title HISTORY SMASHERS: THE TITANIC by Kate Messner.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Glen Blackwell lives in Suffolk, England. He has a career in finance and The Titanic Tunnel is his third book. Inspired by bedtime reading with his 3 daughters, Glen loves to bring stories to life for young readers.

For more about Glen’s books visit his author web page and Amazon.

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COMMENTS ARE WELCOME BELOW!

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

Weird But True Know-it-All: Rocks and Minerals

Posted on May 20, 2022 by Greg Pattridge

The Weird But True series packs another winning title. Previous selections have focused on a wide variety of interests like animals, the ocean, food, and the human body. Now we get a in depth look at Rocks and Minerals. A topic you can’t take for granite (sorry about the pun, but the book is loaded with them.

The emphasis though is on rocks and minerals. Each page is packed with not only the facts about different rock types but also where you can find them. All in their colorful splendor.

Here’s a sample:

*The average small car has 44 pounds of copper in it.

*Geologists have found more than 100 impact craters on Earth.

*There’s a nail polish available that has black diamonds mixed in.

*Marble is used in fine art from phone cases to the Taj Mahal and Lincoln Memorial.

The fun facts and detailed information on Rocks and minerals goes even further. You’ll find a fascinating look at rock experts in paleontology, archaeology, and geology. Young readers just might find a future career within the pages.

You can read this enticing title in any order. Start your journey in the detailed 8-page index to find your interest. Then you can dive into the rest and become a real expert, a true rock star.

Weird But True Know-it-All: Rocks and Minerals is available now. A perfect selection for your summer reading.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Michael Burgan studied history at the University of Connecticut before embarking on his career of writing about history, current events, geography, science, and more for children. He worked at Weekly Reader for six years before becoming a freelance author. He is a member of Biographers International Organization and edits its monthly newsletter, The Biographer’s Craft. A produced playwright, he is also a member of the Dramatists Guild.

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Blogging about middle grade books or authors next week? Join the celebration.

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 Middle Grade Book Reviews, non fiction | Tagged | 3 Comments

MMGM for MAY 16, 2022

Posted on May 16, 2022 by Greg Pattridge

It’s the third Monday of May and time to plan your summer reading with these great MG reviews and features.

Click on each blogger’s book to get started.

At ALWAYS in the MIDDLE I have a review of Jennifer Chan is Not Alone by Tae Keller.

Natalie Aguirre at Literary Rambles has a guest post by Donna Gallanti and a giveaway of Unicorn Island: Secret Beneath the Sand.

June McCrary Jacobs at Reading, Writing, and Stitch-Metic features a a book spotlight and review of the ‘Audubon Birdhouse Book’ by Margaret A. Barker. 

Carol Baldwin shares her author’s journey with “You’re Almost in Labor!” A Celebration of Stages.

Maria Antonia has a post about THE SHATTERED CASTLE by Jennifer A. Nielsen.

Valinora Troy reviews A Wilder Magic by Juliana Brandt with TOTP and his half sister doing the honors!

Rosi Hollinbeck presents I Begin with Spring: The Life and Seasons of Henry David Thoreau. 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 her other reviews from last week including Saturday’s look at CAMP FAMOUS.

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(Make sure you put MMGM or Marvelous Middle Grade Monday in the subject line so it gets sorted accurately–and please don’t forget to say what book you’re featuring)
Thanks for spreading the middle grade love and for being a part of this awesome tradition begun by Shannon Messenger and carried on here at ALWAYS in the MIDDLE! (CLICK HERE FOR PAST MMGM POSTS)
*Please note: these posts are not a reflection of my own opinions on the books featured. Each blogger is responsible for their own MMGM content and I do not pre-screen reviews ahead of time, nor do I control what books they choose. I simply assemble the list based on the links that are emailed to me.
Posted in Book Lists, Middle Grade Book Reviews, MMGM Links | Tagged , , | 2 Comments

JENNIFER CHAN is NOT ALONE

Posted on May 15, 2022 by Greg Pattridge

IT’S MARVELOUS MIDDLE GRADE MONDAY!

“Treat others how you want to be treated.”

I first heard that phrase from my dad after I’m sure I had done something stupid. The importance of that learning for me and others often takes a back seat in middle school where bullying behavior makes one act before thinking about their actions.

Mallory Moss has a popular friend and is finally fitting into the school culture at Gibbons Academy. But now that Jennifer Chan has moved into the neighborhood things get a bit confusing. Jennifer is obsessed with aliens and their existence. She even has journals filled with her findings.

At first Mallory hangs out with the new girl away from the staring eyes at school. The popular crowd sees Jennifer as someone who doesn’t do what is expected in middle school: wear the right clothes, control your image, and know your place. What becomes known as “the Incident” has Mallory and her school friends taking bullying to the worst extremes. Jennifer must be knocked down and put in her place for acting so weird and above all.

The result is one they don’t expect: Jennifer disappears. The police think she has run away but no one is sure why. Deep down Mallory believes the incident was the cause but maybe the real answer is Jennifer has been abducted by aliens. She uses clues from the journals and whether you believe in aliens or not the evidence that it really happened grows. Mallory tries to find Jennifer and the climatic ending reveals all

It’s a tough lesson about friendship, family, and the power often sought after for success. Finding your true identity has never had such a heartfelt look. The first person narration alternates between “THEN” and “NOW” JENNIFER CHAN IS NOT ALONE is the most honest view of bullying I’ve ever read and perhaps one that should be experienced by every new 6th grader.

BOOK BIRTHDAY: April 26, 2022 PAGE COUNT: 288

FIVE MORE THINGS TO LIKE ABOUT: JENNIFER CHAN IS NOT ALONE by Tae Keller

  1. The author note in the back pages is not to be missed even if you don’t read the book. It’s an honest, heartbreaking look as to why she wrote this story.
  2. It’s wonderfully played out as to the mystery of what really caused Jennifer to disappear—abducted by aliens or some awful human, the so called “Incident” that triggered hateful emotions, or a reason no one has thought of yet.
  3. The actions of others can impact a life forever. A lesson worth it’s time in gold.
  4. A realistic portrayal of a typical middle school social structure. It’s about status and thinking about yourself first. Helpful discussions and reflections will for sure be the result for those diving into this story.
  5. How do you follow up a Newbery award winning title, When you Trap a Tiger? You write something equally as good of course!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Saavedra Photography

Tae Keller is the Newbery award winning and New York Times bestselling author of When You Trap a Tiger and The Science of Breakable Things. She grew up in Honolulu, Hawaii, where she subsisted on kimchi, purple rice, and stories. Now, she writes about biracial girls trying to find their voices, and lives in Seattle with her husband and a multitude of books.

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Please comment below if you have the time. It is much appreciated.

Posted in Middle Grade Book Reviews, New Release | Tagged , , , , , | 8 Comments

HOPE WINS

Posted on May 13, 2022 by Greg Pattridge

Twenty-two authors of children’s books share a personal story about an event in their life. One that changed who they would become and gave them the strength to take on what they loved. Most happened when they were a child or young adult.

Middle grade readers will recognize many of the names as they often seem like old friends. Here’s a sampling of my favorites:

Gordon Korman who wrote his first published novel in 7th grade. It all came about because of a teacher.

Hena Kahn took a roundabout way to become passionate about her heritage.

Stuart Gibbs relates the touching story dealing with adversity when the person he was closest to passes away.

James Ponti shares his growing up story. It’s about about family and how he became James Ponti.

Janae Marks talks about how goals often face road blocks. But with determination she turned it into an opportunity and finally sold her first middle grade novel—From the Desk of Zoe Washington.

The stories are perfect for both middle graders and adults. Each will read it differently based on their own experiences, but will come away with a hopeful feeling. Even though I began with familiar authors, I was also captivated by the other stories.

HOPE WINS is the perfect title. When one has hope they also pursue growth in their lives. These personal stories would also be a god fit as a read-aloud in literature classes. The collection is a great addition to the library shelf.

ABOUT THE EDITOR

Rose Brock, Ph.D, is a veteran educator and specialist in literature for young people who spent twenty years as a public school educator working as a language arts teacher and a school librarian. She now works as an associate professor in the Department of Library Science and Technology at Sam Houston State University. (For more visit her website)

I received a copy of the book for this review.

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Blogging about middle grade books or authors next week? Join the celebration.

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 Middle Grade Book Reviews, non fiction, Uncategorized | Tagged , | 3 Comments

MMGM for MAY 9, 2022

Posted on May 9, 2022 by Greg Pattridge

It’s another Monday and time to spotlight some great MG reviews and features.

Click on each blogger’s light switch to get started.

At ALWAYS in the MIDDLE I have a review of THE NATURAL GENIUS OF ANTS by Betty Culley.

Carol Baldwin talks about what it means for a writer to find inspiration in her/his “own backyard.” A giveaway is also offered.

Maria Antonia has a post about THE CAPTIVE KINGDOM by Jennifer A. Nielsen.

Valinora Troy reviews UNICORN ISLAND by Donna Galanti. As always she has a cute picture of the featured book and a best friend.

Rosi Hollinbeck takes a look at THE BOOK OF AMAZING TREES. Rosi also shares three links of interest for her writing friends.

Patricia Tilton at Children’s Books Heal features THE VIEW FROM THE VERY BEST HOUSE IN TOWN by Meera Trehan.

Karen Yingling at Mrs. Yingling Reads always has a fantastic MMGM book to share. Be sure to check it out along with her other reviews from last week including Saturday’s look at SMALLER SISTER.

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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

THE NATURAL GENIUS OF ANTS

Posted on May 8, 2022 by Greg Pattridge

Ten-year-old Harvard narrates this gentle, engaging story. His medical doctor dad made a huge mistake at work which cost the life of a baby. Dad quits being a doctor to try and recover from the tragedy.

He takes Harvard and younger brother Roger to spend the summer at Kettle Hole, Maine where he grew up. Mom stays home for her work and the boys miss her a lot.

It helps to have a summer project like making an ant farm. Harvard with the help of his maybe new friend, Nevaeh, do most of the work to get it started. Questions about ants are posted on a white board and they use a non-fiction book called THE NATURAL GENIUS OF ANTS to help with their research.

Answers are found not only about the ants, but about each other and forgiveness.

Harvard has a fun sense of humor that often plays off words and their meaning. His emotions are all over the place worrying about if Dad is getting better and taking care of the ants. He also has to be the big brother to the very talkative Roger.

The 38 chapters are short and always have you turning the page for more. In our current world it’s nice to have a story where you just feel good after being with this family. They are kind and respectful and I already miss them. A great read aloud full of heart and hope.

BOOK BIRTHDAY: May 10, 2022 PAGE COUNT: 240

FIVE MORE THINGS TO LIKE ABOUT THE NATURAL GENIUS OF ANTS By Betty Culley

  1. Who knew ants were so interesting? I learned a lot about their body structure and habits The next time I see an ant I’ll observe this tiny insect filled with my new knowledge.
  2. Nevaeh, heaven spelled backwards, is the only daughter of a boyhood friend of Harvard’s dad. She loves to write poetry and her special way makes Harvard happy. Together their bond grows in a short time and doing so they help each other. A memorable pair of characters.
  3. Five-year-old Roger is the kind of little brother you want. He’s funny in his own way and his child like way of seeing the world will make you laugh.
  4. Harvard’s middle of the night talks with his mom lead to special insights about the family. She’s a strong presence even when far away.
  5. I’ve never been to Maine. As Harvard points out, their license plate has the word vacationland across the bottom. A vacation in Maine sounds perfect after reading THE NATURAL GENIUS OF ANTS.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Betty Culley is the acclaimed author of the middle-grade novel Down to Earth, which received a starred review from Booklist, calling it “captivating,” and the YA novel in verse Three Things I Know Are True, which was a Kids’ Indie Next List Top Ten Pick and an ALA- YALSA Best Fiction for Young Adults nominee. When writing The Natural Genius of Ants, Betty kept an ant farm and cared for a carpenter ant queen. She’s worked as a pediatric nurse and lives in a small town in central Maine. You can find her online at bettyculley.com.

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I received access to a digital arc for my honest review.

COMMENT ARE WELCOME BELOW!

Posted in Middle Grade Book Reviews | Tagged , , , , | 5 Comments