UNICORN ISLAND Secret Beneath the Sand

Posted on March 13, 2022 by Greg Pattridge

IT’S ANOTHER MARVELOUS MIDDLE GRADE MONDAY!

I was first introduced to this series last year with Book 1, Unicorn Island. It has memorable characters and an enchanting story line. Sam is the main character and when visiting an uncle she discovers a mysterious island full of mythical beasts. What a pleasure it was to find out that Book 2, UNICORN ISLAND Secret Beneath the Sand is available now.

You may have started with the first book, but if not the author does a great job of bringing you up to speed. Life in Foggy Harbor is second to none. Sam is training to become a unicorn protector like Uncle Mitch. Her new friend Tuck is also there to provide support.

A huge problem surfaces when a scourge spreads through the unicorn herd and threatens their existence. Sam and Tuck, along with Tuck’s veterinary mom, vow to help Uncle Mitch save these precious creatures. Along the way Sam learns the truth behind the disappearance of Aunt Sylvie, leading to a huge reveal that will change Sam’s future.

Colorful, mostly full-page illustrations are spaced out among the pages. They add to the appeal of both the setting and characters. The emotions are clear on each face from each magical image.

The print style is easy on the eyes and perfect for those new middle grade readers. Each of the 13 chapters moves a a quick pace, and the end will come before you are ready. Thankfully there is Book 3 that will be coming out soon.

Secret Beneath the Sand is a welcome continuation in the mystery and intrigue of Unicorn Island. Those in grades 4-6 have another winner with this release.

BOOK BIRTHDAY: March 8, 2022 PAGE COUNT: 224

FIVE MORE THINGS TO LIKE ABOUT—UNICORN ISLAND Secret Beneath the Sand

  1. Keeping with the format of Book 1, there are extras in the final pages. Learn about What are Horns and Hooves Made Of?; Secret Rooms and Passageways; What are Invasive Species?; What Makes Lightning Bugs Glow?; and How do Salves Work?
  2. The twist at the end was unexpected and I’m hoping more will come about with this in the next book.
  3. The unicorn magic is still here despite these beautiful creatures’ single horn, which is the source of their magic, disappearing more each day. A great technique to show the distress the characters face.
  4. A diverse cast with all contributing to the plot.
  5. Unlike a lot of MG fantasy books these days, you can be wrapped up in a magical place without having the typical 300 – 400 page count.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Donna Galanti decided she was a grown up for far too long. She luckily gave that up to write children’s books. Donna Galanti is the author of the middle grade adventure Joshua and The Lightning Road, which the Midwest Book Review called, “A heart-pounding thrill ride full of unexpected twists and turns from start to finish”. She’s also the author of the follow up, Joshua and the Arrow Realm, and writes the popular Unicorn Island series for Epic!, the leading digital platform for kids 12 and under (hardcover, February 2021, Andrews McMeel).

Donna is a member of From the Mixed-Up Files of Middle-Grade Authors blog, and regularly presents as a guest author at schools. She also teaches writers on marketing and craft at writing conferences and through her online courses. When she’s not writing you can find her on Twitter or Facebook where she loves to share all things about outdoor adventures and children’s books. Donna has lived from England as a child, to Hawaii as a U.S. Navy photographer where she served with Fleet Intelligence Pacific, and has had a long career in corporate marketing. Visit her at donnagalanti.com. She is represented by Liza Fleissig with the Liza Royce Agency in NYC.

(For more about Donna, be sure to visit her author web site)

ABOUT THE ILLUSTRATOR

Bethany Stancliffe is an illustrator working in Children’s Literature, Comics, Magazine, Concept and Character Design. Her most recent projects include the Unicorn Island series published by EPIC! and Dear Mr. Dickens published by Albert Whitman& Co.

(see some of her work here)

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

Posted in Middle Grade Book Reviews, MMGM Links | Tagged , , | 20 Comments

MARIE CURIOUS, GIRL GENIUS—SAVES THE WORLD

Posted on March 11, 2022 by Greg Pattridge

This imaginative series arrives in North America after getting it’s start in Great Britain. Beginning with SAVES THE WORLD, we meet Marie whose last name really isn’t Curious. It’s a nickname. Her mother came up with the name after watching Marie take apart anything as a little girl.

But now Marie is older and has the opportunity of a lifetime. She is invited to take a trip to California and attend a high level tech camp at VanceCorp for the summer, led by Sterling Vance. He’s the rich tech giant and the world depends on his products. At the camp Marie joins other intelligent kids to build robots, do super cool science experiments, and test out gadgets the campers get to create.

It’s not long before Marie and her new friends discover someone is trying to sabotage their robots and it looks like Sterling Vance is more evil than anyone expected. They band together to do something about whoever it is undermining their efforts and expose Mr. Vance’s true purpose at VanceCorp.

The third person narration moves swiftly through nineteen chapters and an epilogue. You’ll probably wish you could attend the camp with all the fun experimenting going on. There are some twists and turns along the way, but by the climatic ending scenes all is revealed as to who really is good or bad. You’ll have to read this yourself to find out if Marie truly does save the world.

A great start for this series and best for ages 8 and up. No need to wait for the rest of the series as all three books are available now. Click on either Book 2 or 3 below to learn more.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Chris Edison is the pen name of a writer who has written a variety of children’s book series. When not writing exciting adventure stories, Chris loves watching films and playing computer games. Chris lives in Lewes, Sussex.

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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 | Tagged , , | 3 Comments

MMGM for March 7, 2022

Posted on March 7, 2022 by Greg Pattridge

It’s a new MMGM month! Click on a happy face to reach a blogger’s post.

The winners of my 2/22/22 BIG GIVEAWAY were Danielle Hammelef, Maria Antonia, Cindy B., and Susan Uhlig. Congratulations to all and enjoy your duo of books.

At ALWAYS in the MIDDLE I have a review of WINGBEARER by Marjorie Liu.

Sue Heavenrich is over at Archimedes Notebook where she shares a review of Stolen Science, by Ella Schwartz—about scientists & inventors you normally don’t hear about because of their gender, race, or immigration status.

Jennifer Bohnhoff has a review and GIVEAWAY of Super Parks! Yellowstone National Park.

Author June McCrary Jacobs features Exploring Nature:  Activity Book for Kids. The post includes a book spotlight, author bio, and a review.

Carol Baldwin welcomes back her guest reviewer. This week Elliott Kurta shares his thoughts on THE AGING MACHINE. It’s a YA title but may capture the attention of upper MG readers. A GIVEAWAY is also included.

Valinora Troy has a featured review of KINGSTON & THE MAGICIAN’S LOST AND FOUND.

Rosi Hollinbeck gives us a look at A CURIOUS COLLECTION OF DANGEROUS CREATURES. Rosi also shares three links for her writing friends.

Maria Antonia tells us about THE GRAVEYARD RIDDLE by Lisa Thompson.

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 Saturday’s THE AQUANAUT.

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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 | Tagged , , | 3 Comments

WINGBEARER

Posted on March 6, 2022 by Greg Pattridge

IT’S ANOTHER MARVELOUS MIDDLE GRADE MONDAY

This graphic novel takes readers on a fantasy adventure. Just that one sentence will be enough to entice those in grades 3-7. But it’s the story line that won me over.

Zuli is extraordinary—she just doesn’t realize it yet. Raised by mystical bird spirits in the branches of the Great Tree, she’s never ventured beyond this safe haven. She’s never had to. Until now.

When a sinister force threatens the life-giving magic of the tree, Zuli, along with her guardian owl, Frowly, must get to the root of it. So begins an adventure bigger than anything Zuli could’ve ever imagined—one that will bring her, along with some newfound friends, face-to-face with an ancient dragon, the so-called Witch-Queen, and most surprisingly of all: her true identity.

Zuli is a tough little protagonist. She refuses to give up her goal to figure out the world and her past. Kindness is also a part of her being.

Frowly the owl is always by Zuli’s side, but his past is also somewhat of a mystery. Since this is the beginning of a series I’m sure the author will be revealing more of his character. Also making an apearrance are dragon and goblins.

The final color art work is stunning (at least the 28 pages I could see in the ARC). There are intricate patterns of light, color, and emotion in each frame. The illustrator’s work in the animation industry comes through beautifully on the printed page.

No secret reveal here with what the title means, but it’s the focus of the story and will certainly drive the plot in future volumes. Was there an ending upon reaching the final page? You know, the kind that wraps up all the plot points. Not exactly. Instead, you’ll have to wait for Book 2.

BOOK BIRTHDAY: March 1, 2022 PAGE COUNT: 208

FIVE MORE THINGS TO LIKE ABOUT: WING BEARER by Marjorie Liu

  1. The world building is excellent both in pictures and words. Not all is revealed, leaving your imagination to think of what will come next.
  2. A bit of philosophy is thrown in about existence and who we are. Nothing too heavy for the MG mind.
  3. Not the focus of the story, but there is an undercurrent discussion in the need for taking care of our forests.
  4. The bird spirits were the most intriguing part of the plot.
  5. I did like the twist at the end when the true identity of the Witch Queen was pictured. I didn’t see that one coming!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Marjorie Liu is the New York Times bestselling author of Monstress, illustrated by Sana Takeda. She also writes for Marvel Comics, including Black Widow, X-23, and Astonishing X-Men. Marjorie teaches comic book writing at M.I.T., and divides her time between Boston, Massachusetts; and Tokyo, Japan. Visit her online at www.marjoriemliu.com.

ABOUT THE ARTIST/ILLUSTRATOR

Teny Issakhanian is an Armenian American illustrator, building worldsand stories as a storyboard artist and visual development artist in the entertainment industry. She has worked on a multitude of shows at animation studios including Walt Disney Animation Studios, DreamWorks Animation Television, Disney Television Animation, and the Jim Henson Company. Teny graduated from the University of California, Berkeley, and the ArtCenter College of Design. She is based in Los Angeles.

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I received an ARC in exchange for my honest review. Comments are welcome below

Posted in Graphic Novels, Middle Grade Book Reviews | Tagged , , , , , | 7 Comments

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