STEVE SPANGLER’S SUPER COOL SCIENCE EXPERIMENTS FOR KIDS!

Posted on March 4, 2022 by Greg Pattridge

I first became familiar with Steve Spangle when he appeared frequently on a local news program. His infectious enthusiasm for Science was demonstrated with the many fun experiments he shared with his audience. It didn’t take long until the Ellen Show gave him national exposure and Steve’s YouTube channel skyrocketed himself and science to immense popularity. It continued with his own show known as DIY SCI.

His latest book follows through with his desire to make science fun while also explaining the WHY and HOW.

The 50 experiments are arranges into four categories:

  • BETTER THAN MAGIC
  • EXTREME ELEMENTS
  • FUNDAMENTAL FORCES
  • KITCHEN SCIENCE

The beginning pages are devoted to the 6 principals of science safety and a detailed but never boring look at the Scientific Method. The experiments are presented in full color with easy to obtain materials and a Did you know? piece extends knowledge to a related science concept.

I tried out a few of the experiments before I let my copy of the book drop into middle grade hands. I learned how to make an Ice-Tray Battery, the World’s Simplest Motor, Anti-Gravity Water, and Solar Oven S’mores. The grin on my face showed not only was I having fun but also the hands-on lessons will be ones I won’t forget. That’s what makes this style of teaching popular with young learners.

The experiments in SUPER COOL SCIENCE EXPERIMENTS FOR KIDS! first appeared on Steve’s YouTube channel. Here’s a short one to give you an idea of what to expect:

The book though is a much better tool for the classroom and at home learning. Not only do you not need a screen to watch but the explanation of how it works is invaluable. Best for ages 8-12 and will certainly increase interest in science. Highly recommended!

ABOUT STEVE SPANGLER

With more than 1,600 television appearances and multiple Emmy awards to his credit, Steve is also a regular guest on the Ellen DeGeneres Show where she dubbed him America’s Science Teacher. Steve’s catalog of videos featured on YouTube, Facebook, Instagram and now TikTok have more than 1 billion views, and his books and online experiments are widely used by parents and educators to increase student engagement and inspire young scientists to learn more about STEM-based careers.

But Steve Spangler feels most at home when he’s on stage sharing insights and creating those amazing experiences audiences remember for a lifetime. Steve brings over 25 years of experience (4,500+ presentations) to the platform every time he speaks. In July 2010, members of the National Speakers Association inducted Steve into the prestigious Speaker Hall of Fame. He is among an elite group of only 224 professional speakers in the world to receive this honor.

(For more visit Steve’s very popular website)

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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 , , | 6 Comments

MMGM for February 28, 2022

Posted on February 28, 2022 by Greg Pattridge

Get ready for next month with a new haul of book reviews and features!

Click on a book below to open a blogger’s post

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It’s the final day to enter my BIG 5 PAIR GIVEAWAY. See all the details via the green book.

At ALWAYS in the MIDDLE I have a review of DREAM, ANNIE, DREAM by Waka T. Brown.

Carol Baldwin has THE VIEW FROM THE VERY BEST HOUSE IN TOWN: A Middle Grade Review by Guest Blogger, Elliott Kurta. There’s also a GIVEAWAY!

Author June McCrary Jacobs features a book spotlight + review of a Christian devotional written for children ages 6-10, ‘You Can Count on God’ by Max Lucado.

Maria Antonia reviews a Newbery book, A WISH IN THE DARK by Christine Soontornvat.

Patricia Tilton at Children’s Books Heal reviews A Secret Shared by Patricia MacLachlan, a contemporary story about what makes a family.

Mark Baker at Carstairs Considers is back with us again with a review of Forbidden City by James Ponti.

Valinora Troy checks in with a featured review of Sleepwalkers Round One.

Susan Uhlig is sharing the great book Mighty Inside by Sundee T. Frazier.

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 last week like Sunday’s DEAR STUDENT.

Rosi Hollinbeck has a review and GIVEAWAY of FAMOUS ARTISTS IN HISTORY.

(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 | Tagged , , | 3 Comments

Dream, Annie, Dream

Posted on February 27, 2022 by Greg Pattridge

A music teacher friend of mine called a few weeks back with a problem. His school was doing a read every day initiative and teachers had to spend ten minutes reading the first 10-20 pages of any novel.

“I read music,” he said. “Not literature. Can you recommend any stories with a theater theme? I have a class of sixth graders at the time when we have to read.”

A long breath came out next assuring me this “reading out loud” task was the last thing he wanted to do. I pushed forth and recommended:

  • Better Nate than Ever by Tim Federle
  • Drama by Raina Telgemeier
  • Dream, Annie, Dream by Waka T. Brown

I briefly told him about each book and without hesitation he went for DREAM, ANNIE, DREAM—my review for today.

Aoi Inoue (AKA Annie since few ever pronounce her name correctly) wants to be successful at something. Basketball for sure, but also acting and maybe even writing a script. The setting is Topeka, Kansas in 1987 and Annie is the only Asian kid in her neighborhood. She lives with her parents and a younger brother. Dad is a university math professor (Annie hates math) and Mom is worried that basketball and theater are dead-end aspirations for an Asian-American.

Annie’s first dream comes true when gets a small part in a local theater’s production of Annie at a local theater. She loves the experience and when 7th grade begins she makes the basketball squad (even though she is the shortest on the team) and gets another small part in The King and I. Along the way she comes to realize the biases and racism she and her family endure every day. In typical middle school ways there are broken friendships, first crushes, and an over-the-top, strict teacher with a few unnecessary interpretations of her own.

The first person narration by Annie is spot on. This is an important story of reflection as to what it was like being an Asian-American in the 80s and whether attitudes and opportunities have improved or not in the present day. They have, but there’s still a long way to go. Dream, Annie, Dream will open up discussion and provide an enjoyable reading experience at the same time.

As for the music teacher, he said his reading went quite well and wouldn’t mind doing it again!

BOOK BIRTHDAY: Feb. 8, 2022 PAGE COUNT: 352

FIVE MORE THINGS TO LIKE ABOUT: Dream. Annie, Dream by Waka T. Brown.

  1. The idea that way you look gets you preferential treatment in certain situations is wonderfully brought out when some think Annie is getting the parts not because of any talent. You can also make comparisons today with entertainment and sports headlines highlighting the imbalances when top level positions are often given to white candidates.
  2. Annie finds herself struggling with who she is, but by the end you can tell her support system has pushed her to make important realizations about herself and the future.
  3. The family personalities are all very different. The author did a splendid job with each character arc, even with little brother, Tak.
  4. Being a certain way based on your race is a common misconception still seen in the world today. I’m glad to see it brought forth here.
  5. The Author’s Note in the back pages tells a impactful story in it’s own right. You might even read this first as it sets the stage for what is to come in the main story.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Waka is a Stanford graduate with a B.A. in International Relations and a Master’s in Secondary Education. While I Was Away (Quill Tree/HarperCollins 2021) is her debut novel.

Dream, Annie, Dream (Quill Tree/HarperCollins 2022) is her first work of historical fiction.

(For more about Waka T. Brown be sure to visit her author website)

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Please leave a comment below as I always enjoy reading them

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

ZION UNMATCHED

Posted on February 25, 2022 by Greg Pattridge

Tell me something I can’t do. and I will do it or die trying. That’s what happens when you are born without legs. People immediately doubt you. Or they look at you funny. Or as less than human. But I’ve never seen myself as disabled. I’m just lower to the ground

Zion Clark

This inspiring book is meant to motivate 8-10 year olds, especially those that feel different from others. Images of Zion as a toddler all the way to an adult are truly amazing at what he has accomplished. It begins with his life story then the pictures take over. Motivational quotes from both Zion and others capture each moment.

The content is like a picture book for 8-12 year-olds. Many of the quotes and images would make a great poster. At just 32 pages the message to never give up is loud and clear. Here’s the official background of the book:

This stunning photographic essay showcases Zion Clark’s ferocious athleticism and undaunted spirit. Cowritten by New York Times best-selling journalist James S. Hirsch, this book features striking, visually arresting images and an approachable and engaging text, including pieces of advice that have motivated Zion toward excellence and passages from Zion himself. Explore Zion’s journey from a childhood lost in the foster care system to his hard-fought rise as a high school wrestler to his current rigorous training to prepare as an elite athlete on the world stage. Included are a biography and a note from Zion.

Zion Unmatched would be the perfect book for a table top at home or in the classroom. Just seeing the cover encourages anyone walking by to take a look. I hope for a sequel that would give more details on Zion’s training regiment and delve deeper into the events in his life. For now though you can be inspired by what this volume offers.

ABOUT ZION

Zion’s herculean efforts hadn’t gone unnoticed as a Hollywood producer documented his journey during senior year. The film “Zion” garnered critical acclaim at the prestigious Sundance Film Festival (2018) and global media exposure (it’s currently available on Netflix).

In addition to his brutal training/practice regimen, Zion stays busy as a motivational speaker.   

The moral of Zion’s inspirational story is that things don’t always go smoothly in life…but in order to succeed, you must adapt to your individual circumstances. 

Priding himself in hard work, Zion offers that there are no excuses…or shortcuts!
It’s all about faith, passion, and perseverance. 
Zion urges others to “Be Greater Than” > …the obstacles you face.  

YOU, and only YOU are in control of your destiny!

(For more visit Zion’s WEB SITE)

TIME IS RUNNING OUT TO ENTER MY 5 BOOK PAIR GIVEAWAY. YOU CAN FIND THE DETAILS HERE!

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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 February 21, 2022

Posted on February 21, 2022 by Greg Pattridge

CLICK ON A

Presidential Seal to Reach a blogger’s post

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It’s a BIG GIVEAWAY DAY here at ALWAYS in the MIDDLE. See all the details in my special 5 Pair Giveaway.

At ALWAYS in the MIDDLE I also have a review of DEAR STUDENT by Elly Swartz.

Carol Baldwin has two non-fiction book reviews and giveaways in honor of Black History month.

Author June McCrary Jacobs has a blog tour stop for a Christian devotional/prayer picture book written for children ages 4-8, ‘Good Morning, Little One’. Includes a book spotlight + excerpt, author bio, and a giveaway.

Valinora Troy reviews THE MISSING BARBEGAZI by H.S. Norup.

Maria Antonia features a review of A SOFT PLACE TO LAND by Janae Marks.

Rosi Hollinbeck has a review and GIVEAWAY of I Survived The Galveston Hurricane 1900. Rosi also has three links for her writing friends.

Patricia Tilton at Children’s Books Heal reviews Scribbles, Sorrows, and Russet Leather Boots: The Life of Louisa May Alcott by Liz Rosenberg. This well-researched biography will captivate a new generation of readers 10-14.

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 last week like LOYALTY by AVI.

(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 | Tagged , , | 2 Comments

DEAR STUDENT

Posted on February 20, 2022 by Greg Pattridge

IT’S ANOTHER MARVELOUS MIDDLE GRADE MONDAY!

Autumn is faced with a new school year, her first in middle school. The transition won’t be easy since her best friend has moved to California. Even worse—Dad left to volunteer with the Peace Corp in Ecuador for three years. She has a mom who is an animal vet and a younger sister.

Once school begins Autumn’s anxiety about having to talk in class doesn’t go away but the friend front gets a boost when she meets Cooper and Logan. These new friends couldn’t be more different but Autumn tries to make it work, spending time with each.

Her teacher sponsors the school newspaper and picks one student a year to become the secret Dear Student advice giver. Kids write in with a question and the mystery person writes back. The question and answer are then printed in the next edition of the paper. Autumn is chosen and begins her task and provides some great answers. She does have a voice after all!

The task gets more difficult when Autumn’s advice puts her in a bind with her new friends who have opposite feelings about a local company doing testing on animals. She struggles with continuing as the secret voice, understanding her father’s absence, and not knowing what to say out loud.

I was internally furious at the father for leaving his family when his presence during the crucial stage of his girls growing up was needed more. He has just as much growing up to do as his kids.

Beyond that, Autumn’s first person narration flows smoothly through 54 short chapters. Her voice may not be strong in class but carries itself in the story to a level that is both engaging and hard to put down. Heartfelt and truthful to the times, DEAR STUDENT explores friendship, the bond between sisters, and a family break up that for once has nothing to do with divorce or death. Highly recommended for 5th grade and up.

BOOK BIRTHDAY: February 15, 2022 PAGE COUNT: 304

FIVE MORE THINGS TO LIKE ABOUT DEAR STUDENT by Elly Swartz

  1. I’ve never been fortunate to come across the delicious sounding dessert know as a whoopee pie. My waist line is going to take a hit as the recipe is shared in the back pages. WHOOPEE!
  2. Autumn is one of the best MG characters to come along in recent years. Her social anxiety issues will help many like her also find their voice.
  3. Since Dad left, the family had to move into the vet clinic to live. Their space is separate from the animals but all of their furry (and not so furry) clients are like an extended family.
  4. Autumn’s family is Jewish but this isn’t the focus of the story. It’s just who they are and you learn about a few Jewish customs along the way.
  5. The relationship between Autumn and little sister Pickle is so special. These two would be friends for life.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Elly Swartz grew up in Yardley, Pennsylvania. She studied psychology at Boston University and received her law degree from Georgetown University Law Center. Elly lives in Massachusetts and is happily married with two grown sons, a beagle named Lucy, and a pup named Baxter Bean. Finding Perfect, called “a clear, moving portrayal of obsessive-compulsive disorder” by Publishers Weekly, was her debut novel. She is also the author of Smart Cookie and Give and Take, novels for middle grade readers.

Read more about Elly on her website: www.ellyswartz.com

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I received an ARC in exchange for my honest review. Please comment below!

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

A 5-way Double Giveaway

Posted on February 20, 2022 by Greg Pattridge

A rare occurrence on the calendar happens this week with Tuesday coming in as 2/22/22. That’s five two’s in a row! What better way to celebrate than hosting a giveaway of five pairs of hardback books in my 5th year hosting MMGM.

It’s easy to enter. There are five 2-book giveaways. In the comments (or email me), state which package you want: Duo 1, 2. 3. 4, or 5. You can enter any or all. Who knows—maybe your name will be drawn more than once!

THE GIVEAWAY IS OPEN UNTIL MIDNIGHT ON FEB. 28TH. U.S. Residents only.

Here they are and good luck:

DUO 1

EXPLORER ACADEMY: THE DRAGON”S BLOOD

THE BOY WHO MADE EVERYONE LAUGH

DUO 2

STUCK

LINKED

DUO 3

STOWAWAY

A-OKAY

DUO 4

THE TROUBLED GIRLS OF DRAGOMIR ACADEMY

THE DOUBLE LIFE OF DANNY DAY

DUO 5

AN OCCASIONALLY HAPPY FAMILY

TIDESONG

Posted in Giveaways | Tagged | 20 Comments

WHO WAS HARRIET TUBMAN?

Posted on February 18, 2022 by Greg Pattridge

THE “Who Was/Is….” series of paperbacks has over 250 titles to choose from. It began 20 years ago with just four titles.

Each book provides a great start for kids who want to learn about some of the iconic names in history, politics, science, and sports. I chose Harriet Tubman to feature today in honor of Black History Month.

At just over 100 pages the story unfolds as to how Harriet Tubman began her life as a slave before fleeing to the North. She returned many times to help her family and others make the trip to freedom. Eventually Harriet would become a Union Army spy and her bravery published in two books. She lived to be 92 years old and is remembered with a large plaque in front of the Auburn, NY courthouse.

The text is interspersed with illustrations along with short essays about other events and people of the era. Here you will learn more about Slave Auctions, Plantation Crops, Vigilance Committees, and Quakers to name a few. The story ends with a helpful timeline of Harriet Tubman”s life and a bibliography.

You can check out other titles in the best selling series here.

Highly recommended for curious middle grade readers.

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 February 14, 2022

Posted on February 14, 2022 by Greg Pattridge

You are going to love

these MG reviews and features!

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At ALWAYS in the MIDDLE I have a review of ANYBODY HERE SEEN FRENCHIE? by Leslie Connor.

Natalie Aguirre at Literary Rambles features a guest post by debut author Leigh Lewis with a giveaway of her MG nonfiction Pirate Queens: Dauntless Women Who Dared to Rule the High Seas.

Author June McCrary Jacobs shares her vintage Valentine collection and a short essay of Valentine’s Day memories in her classroom when she was a teacher. Lots of photos are included!

Sue Heavenrich has a couple browsable nonfiction books for the 7-10’s over at Archimedes Notebook.

Carol Baldwin’s young reviewer, Elliott Kurta, did such a great job last week he’s been invited back. Today Elliott shares his thoughts on I ESCAPED NORTH KOREA. Included is a GIVEAWAY opportunity for the book.

Patricia Tilton at Children’s Books Heal has a review of Mightier Than the Sword: Rebels, Reformers & Revolutionaries Who Changed the World Through Writing by Rochelle Melander. 

Maria Antonia is all in on the theme for the week with THE SECRET VALENTINE by Melody Reed.

Max @ COMPLETELY FULL BOOKSHELF recommends The Beatryce Prophecy by Kate DiCamillo. 

Rosi Hollinbeck has a review of THE CANYON’S EDGE by Dusti Bowling. Rosi also has three links 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 last week like last Saturday’s BUTTON PUSHER.

(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 | Tagged , , | 5 Comments

ANYBODY HERE SEEN FRENCHIE?

Posted on February 13, 2022 by Greg Pattridge

Leslie Connor is an author I have enjoyed with such memorable reads as ALL RISE FOR THE HONORABLE PERRY T. COOK and THE TRUTH AS TOLD BY MASON BUTTLE. Now comes a new story with two very different characters.

Eleven-year-old Aurora (pictured above) is an impulsive preteen who speaks her mind—loudly—and often at the worst time. Friendship never lasts long except the one she has with a boy named Frenchie who is autistic and never talks. They’ve been in the same class in a small town Maine school since third grade. With the beginning of sixth grade, though, they’ve been assigned to separate classes.

Frenchie will have a full time aide by his side, but it’s going to be a new adjustment for both kids. They can still share time outside of school as both love the natural world present in coastal Maine. Birds for Frenchie while Aurora loves rocks of all kinds. They are also captivated by the spotted piebald deer they are lucky to have seen. This deer plays an important role in the story line.

Everything changes when one morning after being dropped off at school by Aurora’s dad, Frenchie soon walks away from school grounds and no one can find him. Aurora feels responsible because she usually walks him to class each morning. No one in the town has seen him which leads to an organized search and rescue plan scouring the trails leading into the woods. But still, after searching for the rest of the day Frenchie is still missing. Where can he be? Frenchie will have to spend the night alone in the dark wherever he is.

The story unfolds through multiple viewpoints. Most of them are via Aurora whose first person narration is full of emotion as she struggles with the real life drama of a missing friend alone in the wilderness. The author’s expert way of bringing out each character is done in the present along with highlights from the past. Together they provide a full view of the special bond these two have.

This MG title that will have adults (like me) raving about the story. The intended audience, age 8-12, might find the pace a bit slow with too much introspection, but it would make a great focus as a classroom read and a discussion of differences in others.

BOOK BIRTHDAY: February 15, 2022 PAGE COUNT: 336

FIVE MORE THINGS TO LIKE ABOUT—ANYBODY HERE SEEN FRENCHIE? by Leslie Connor

  1. I’ve never been to Maine but the setting laid out for readers has me hoping I can some day soon visit this unique state.
  2. Neurodivergent characters get a deeper understanding as both Aurora and Frenchie provide insights into the way they act.
  3. A community coming together is a beautiful thing and what you experience here is truly memorable.
  4. Aurora treats Frenchie for who he is rather than seeing him as someone to avoid. A special bond for sure.
  5. In the end, this is about friendship and its importance to every child,

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A FEW WORDS FROM AUTHOR, Leslie Connor

What do I do on a writing break? Well, I still love to create—everything from art collages to artisan pizzas and pots of soup. I also love to bike to town and meet friends. I like to believe that every plot problem can be solved over a good cup of Earl Grey tea… and maybe a piece of dark chocolate.

(For more about Leslie and her books visit the author’s website)

I received a copy of the book in exchange for my honest insights. Comments are welcome below.

Posted in Middle Grade Book Reviews | Tagged , , , , | 9 Comments