GHOST GIRL

Posted on August 8, 2021 by Greg Pattridge

Spooky, creepy, and a large dose of evil is what you’ll find in GHOST GIRL The story is both engaging and full of appealing themes for the MG audience. The characters are memorable and make the story shine. Here’s the official background blurb:

Zee Puckett loves ghost stories. She just never expected to be living one.  It all starts with a dark and stormy night. When the skies clear, everything is different. People are missing. There’s a creepy new principal who seems to know everyone’s darkest dreams. And Zee is seeing frightening things: large, scary dogs that talk and maybe even . . . a ghost.  

When she tells her classmates, only her best friend Elijah believes her. Worse, mean girl Nellie gives Zee a cruel nickname: Ghost Girl. But whatever the storm washed up isn’t going away. Everyone’s most selfish wishes start coming true in creepy ways. To fight for what’s right, Zee will have to embrace what makes her different and what makes her Ghost Girl. And all three of them—Zee, Elijah, and Nellie—will have to work together if they want to give their ghost story a happy ending. 

The 21 chapters are just the right length and the action unfolds with visits to the town’s ghostly cemetery and some nasty red-eyed hounds. I was glad to be reading this during the daylight hours.

Themes include bullying, body image, socio-economic status, and mental health. They don’t overwhelm the plot but provide the extra glue to make the story even more interesting. Perfect for the Halloween season or any other time of the year. A very enticing and hopeful debut. Hopeful in that I hope to see more from this author.

BOOK BIRTHDAY: AUGUST 10, 2021 PAGE COUNT: 288

FIVE MORE THINGS TO LIKE ABOUT GHOST GIRL by Ally Malinenko

  1. Zee’s favorite book is Mary Shelly’s Frankenstein. It’s a loving nod to one of the great scary stories of all times.
  2. Each of the characters face hurtful family problems. All are believable and readers may find some familiarity in the situations.
  3. Many MG books have school principals who are mean. Principal Scratch takes the prize though for the most feared administrator ever portrayed. The author did a great job of making you despise this man.
  4. The third person narrations stays close to Zee and it works. She’s a flawed but likable character. You won’t always agree with how she deals with her problems but will understand her thinking.
  5. The relationship between Zee and Nellie had a nice unexpected twist.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Ally Malinenko is a poet, novelist, and librarian living in Brooklyn, New York, where she pens her tales in a secret writing closet before dawn each day. Connect with Ally on her website at www.allymalinenko.com.

Ally Malinenko is a poet, novelist, and librarian living in Brooklyn, New York, where she pens her tales in a secret writing closet before dawn each day. Connect with Ally on her website at www.allymalinenko.com.

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I received an ARC in exchange for my honest review. Be sure to visit all the other MMGM bloggers. Comments are always welcome below!

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

KYLE’S LITTLE SISTER

Posted on August 6, 2021 by Greg Pattridge

One of my favorite things to do as a kid was to read the Sunday comics. Curled up on the couch I’d unfurl the colorful pages and enjoy each comic strip. Many had story lines you had to follow for weeks until the episode resolved. This new graphic novel reminded me of those Sundays and it was nice to have the entire “comic strip” in one place.

Thanks to a review copy I was able to dive into this one shortly after enjoying two other reviews about this title from other MMGM participants: RANDOMLY READING and COMPLETELY FULL BOOKSHELF.

Here’s the official blurb from JY FOR KIDS:

My name is Grace, not “Kyle’s little sister!”

Having a good-looking, friendly, outgoing older brother sucks—especially when you’re the total opposite, someone who likes staying home and playing video games. Your parents like him better (even if they deny it!), and everyone calls you “Kyle’s little sister” while looking disappointed that you’re not more like him. I was really hoping I’d get to go to a different middle school, but no such luck. At least I have my friends…until he finds a way to ruin that, too…! Argh! What do I have to do to get out of his shadow?!

The theme of sibling rivalry is not a common one in MG but very common in the real world. It’s a focus here along with a theme kids are always interested in: friend drama (and plenty of it).

Middle school and 6th grade is a huge change and having a sibling in 8th grade can make it even more difficult. Grace loses friends in part by her own bratty attitude. She’s also convinced Kyle is the worst brother. Thankfully, there’s some resolution on all fronts by the last panel.

The artwork is excellent always emphasizing the emotions of each character. The middle grade scenes are accurately portrayed and will be familiar to young readers. Graphic novel lovers have another friend in KYLE’S LITTLE SISTER.

BonHyung Jeong (Bon) studied Cartooning at the School of Visual Arts in New York, and Kyle’s Little Sister is her debut graphic novel, made possible with the help of numerous people. She hopes to make connections with others through relatable stories. Currently living in Korea, she’s always busy playing console games – exactly like someone in the book!

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

All you have to do is blog about a middle grade book on a Monday (contests, author interviews, or anything middle grade related also count). 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 please don’t forget to say what book or author 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.
Posted in Graphic Novels, Middle Grade Book Reviews | Tagged , , , | 3 Comments

MMGM for August 2, 2021

Posted on August 2, 2021 by Greg Pattridge

              August Clip Art 10710

Welcome to August. This month is special with 5 Mondays of great reviews and features!  Click on the high-five celebrating kids to get started.

1421At ALWAYS in the MIDDLE I’m reviewing STOWAWAY by John David Anderson.

1421COMPLETELY FULL BOOKSHELF takes another look at an all-time favorite, Goodbye Stranger by Rebecca Stead.

1421June McCrary Jacobs at READING, WRITING, & STITCH-METIC shares The All-Together Quilt, by Lizzy Rockwell.

1421Maria Antonia at OF BOOKS, PHOTOGRAPHY, AND TEA  is talking about WAYS TO GROW LOVE by Renee Watson.

1421Librarian Chris Holliman is in the lineup today with a review of STARFISH by Lisa Fipps.

1421Alex Baugh at RANDOMLY READING has Show Me a Sign by Ann Clare LeZotte.

1421Rosi Hollinbeck has a review of THE CHANCE TO FLY by Ali Stroker and Stacy Davidowitz. Rosi also shares three helpful links for her writing friends.

1421Karen Yingling at Ms. Yingling Reads fills her blog with great reviews all week and today for MMGM she features: BLACK BOY JOY.

 THANKS FOR STOPPING BY!
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.
Posted in MMGM Links | Tagged , , | 2 Comments

STOWAWAY

Posted on August 1, 2021 by Greg Pattridge

I’ve enjoyed John David Anderson’s books since 2016 when I was first introduced to his story telling with Ms. Bixby’s Last Day. In 2017 came Posted; 2019’s Finding Orion; and last year’s One Last Shot. All of these were heartfelt contemporary dramas with doses of humor.

With STOWAWAY, Anderson takes us to the future and a space adventure involving a war like none other.

When scientists discover a rare and mysterious mineral buried in the Earth’s crust, they have no idea that it just happens to be the most valuable substance in the entire universe. It’s not long before aliens show up to our little corner of the galaxy offering a promise of protection, some fabulous new technology, and entry into their intergalactic coalition—all in exchange for this precious resource. A material so precious that other alien forces are willing to start a war over it. A war that soon makes its way to Earth.

Leo knows this all too well. His mother was killed in one such attack, and soon after, his father, a Coalition scientist, decides it would be best for them to leave Earth behind. It’s on this expedition that their ship is attacked, Leo’s father is kidnapped, and Leo and his brother are stranded in the middle of space. The only chance they have is for Leo to stow away on a strange ship of mercenary space pirates bound for who knows where and beg the captain to help him find his father.

But the road is dangerous, and pirates, of course, only look out for themselves. Leo must decide who to trust as he tries to stay alive and save his family, even as he comes to understand that there aren’t many people—human or alien—that he can count on in this brave new universe.

At nearly 400 pages, I’d hold off if new to the MG label. This is best for patient science fiction readers who don’t have many selections to choose from in this genre. Although it is tagged as 3-8th grade, I’d also recommend closer to 6-8th grade with some of the content. Nothing close to the YA realm but inching that way.

The concept of a found family is an important one to cover whether a story is set now or in the future. Leo must connect with his “new” family while searching for his own. The backstory is covered throughout the pages and I would have like to have this made into two books with the backstory becoming a book of it’s own. But that’s just me.

There will be a sequel to this epic beginning given the TO BE CONTINUED… statement at the end plus an epilogue.

If you are fan of Star Trek or Star Wars, this one is for you.

FIVE MORE THINGS TO LIKE ABOUT STOWAWAY by John David Anderson

  1. There are an engaging set of space characters. Baz, Kat, Boo, and Skits the Robot have wide ranging personalities and they bring many surprises to the story.
  2. Leo is a believable character as he tries to understand the politics of what is going on in the universe. The third person narration stays close to him the entire way and it’s time well spent.
  3. The decisions world leaders of countries made to buy into the help of an alien group was also believable and a little scary.
  4. Older brother Gareth is the impetus of the plot though not in the center of the action. His role in the second book will be intriguing to follow.
  5. The story had me thinking this would make a great discussion topic: With climate change and disappearing fuel sources big issues right now, if we do nothing to correct this pattern is the world characterized in Stowaway inevitable?

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

John David Anderson is the author of several critically-acclaimed novels for young people. He lives with his patient wife and brilliant twins in Indianapolis, Indiana, right next to a State park and a Walmart. He does not wear ties. He enjoys hiking, reading, chocolate, spending time with his family, playing the piano, chocolate, putting off the dishes, watching movies, and chocolate. Those aren’t his real teeth. Not all of them, anyway.

There are lots of ways to contact him. Telepathy, for example. Carrier pigeon. Alien distress beacon. Sky writing. Failing those, you can always e-mail him here. Be sure to tell him how his book has revolutionized your life, or, barring that, how you used it to smash a bug or something.

(For more about John and his books take a side trip over to his author website.)

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I received a copy of STOWAWAY in exchange for my honest review. Check out all the other MMGM bloggers here.

Be sure to leave a comment below!

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

Sharks at Your Service

Posted on July 30, 2021 by Greg Pattridge

Most humans are either scared or enthralled by these creatures of the sea. SHARKS AT YOUR SERVICE uses the voice of a child to convince readers that sharks need protection from people out to destroy their species. It’s a fascinating look through pictures and words.

Young Marina heads to the aquarium with her dad and is captivated by the sharks. She gets to touch their skin and listen to a presentation by shark photographer, Jeff Rotman. By the end of the day she has created a list of ways to protect sharks.

The images of these ocean dwellers are stunning. You’ll see Great Whites, Caribbean Reef Shark, Basking Shark, Angel Sharks, and many more. There are also illustrations as Marina’s imagination takes over. The combination is an engaging way to learn about sharks. You’ll be flipping back and forth among the 40+ pages many times over.

A perfect selection for home and at school.

I’ve also been alerted of a special event surrounding the book:

On August 5th Tumbleocity program is taking a deep dive into their world and you are invited to come along.

Maine author Mary Cerullo will talk about her new book, Sharks At Your Service, which uncovers all the important work sharks do in the ocean. World renowned shark photographer, Jeff Rotman, will share his breathtaking photos and be available for Q&A. 

Everyone is welcome! 

FREE ZOOM

Audience: for ages 7+
Date: August 5, 2021
Time: 5:00 PM to 6:00 PM EDT
Register: by August 3rd: https://tumblehomebooks.org/upcoming-tumbleocity-programs/ 

ABOUT THE CREATORS

Mary M. Cerullo describes herself as a science interpreter, using her skills as a teacher and
a writer to make research understandable to non-scientists. This career has allowed her curiosity to take her in many different directions as she learns about the ocean. Doing the research for her books has led to a few adventures of her own: swimming with 10 Caribbean reef sharks, lounging with stingrays in Stingray City, diving on a sunken ship, visiting a volcano, and spending a week immersed with bottlenose dolphins. Mary is the author of 23 children’s books, fromphytoplankton to giant squid.

Jeffrey L. Rotman is one of the world’s leading underwater photographers. Diving and shooting in nearly every ocean and sea in the world, this Boston native combines an artist’s eye with a naturalist’s knowledge of his subjects. Jeff’s work has appeared in numerous popular magazines worldwide and in books for both children and adults. He was named BBC Underwater Wildlife Photographer of the Year, and he won the National Press Photographers Award for Science Pictures of the Year twice.

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

All you have to do is blog about a middle grade book on a Monday (contests, author interviews, or anything middle grade related also count). 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 please don’t forget to say what book or author 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.
Posted in Middle Grade Book Reviews, non fiction | Tagged , , , | 3 Comments

MMGM for July 26, 2021

Posted on July 26, 2021 by Greg Pattridge

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Click on a stack of books to open up some great Middle Grade reviews and features (Including a  triple appearance of different books by Kate DiCamillo!)

kAcb5gqT4At ALWAYS in the MIDDLE I’m reviewing EVERYTHING TOGETHER by  Benjamin Klas.

kAcb5gqT4Sue Heavenrich is in two places this week. First, she’s over at Archimedes Notebook with Do You Know Where the Animals Live? by Peter Wohlleben.

kAcb5gqT4Sue’s second post is at Sally’s Bookshelf where she shares two books that explore life under Hitler.

kAcb5gqT4Patricia Tilton at Children’s Books Heal reviews a chapter book, Franklin Endicott and the Third Key by Kate DiCamillo.

kAcb5gqT4Maria Antonia at OF BOOKS, PHOTOGRAPHY, AND TEA features JOURNEY TO FREEDOM by Sherri Winston.

kAcb5gqT4Rosanne E. Lortz reviews one you may have missed—THE MAGICIAN’S ELEPHANT by Kate DiCamillo.

kAcb5gqT4Alex Baugh is over at THE CHILDREN’S WAR with a review of the exciting Arctic Star by Tom Palmer.

kAcb5gqT4Beth Schmelzer at BEST BOOKS BY BETH gives us a look at RESTART by Gordon Korman.

kAcb5gqT4Rosi Hollinbeck has a review and GIVEAWAY of THE BEATRYCE PROPHECY by Kate DiCamillo. Rosi also shares three helpful links for her writing friends.

kAcb5gqT4Karen Yingling at Ms. Yingling Reads fills her blog with great reviews all week and today for MMGM she features: WEIRD KID.

 THANKS FOR STOPPING BY!
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.
Posted in MMGM Links | Tagged , , | 2 Comments

EVERYTHING TOGETHER

Posted on July 25, 2021 by Greg Pattridge

The sequel to SECOND DAD SUMMER stands on its own if you haven’t read the first. I reviewed the initial story in July, 2020. It was an enjoyable time spent with young Jeremiah and his split family. With EVERYTHING TOGETHER, a year has passed and Jeremiah is spending the summer with his dad and Michael who will soon celebrate their marriage. Here’s the synopsis from Red Chair Press and One Elm Books:

When 13-year-old Jeremiah arrives in Minneapolis to spend the summer with his Dad, everything feels odd.  His dad’s fiancé Michael, has buried the apartment in piles of DIY wedding decorations. And Jeremiah’s best friend Sage now spends all her time with a new friend. Everywhere he goes, Jeremiah feels like the odd one out. Eager for something to get him away from all this, he starts volunteering in an English class for refugees. As summer goes on, Jeremiah discovers community in new places and with unexpected friends. As a sequel to highly regarded Second Dad Summer, Everything Together is about exploring your place in the world and all the tangled ways we connect.

Jeremiah continues his understanding of the LGBTQ+ community and his character branches out even more as he spends much of his spare time assisting in a refugee class. Hurtful opinions are brought forth both in whether two men should be getting married and others who wish the refugee community would disappear. It’s all thoughtfully presented.

33 chapters go by in a hurry and the illustrations throughout help bring the characters and story to life. Everything Together is a celebration of diversity and acceptance. With plenty of humor, it’s a solid effort and one that will bring much needed discussion with kids and their parents. Families are meant to be different and that’s okay.

BOOK BIRTHDAY: August 1, 2021 PAGE COUNT: 280

FIVE MORE THINGS TO LIKE ABOUT: EVERYTHING TOGETHER by Benjamin Klas

  1. The chapter when Jeremiah and his dad discuss bisexuality is perfectly done. There’s nervousness, apprehension, and eventual understanding.
  2. Jeremiah is a great protagonist. He’s not only thoughtful but willing to see things from different perspectives. We need more Jeremiahs in this world.
  3. The themes never become overly political. They’re like raindrops providing a fresh perspective on hurtful attitudes.
  4. The cast of adult and kid characters are all strong and the Minneapolis setting provided many memorable scenes.
  5. A unique coming of age story and one you’ll want to share.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Benjamin Klas lives in Minnesota with his partner and their son. He spends his days block printing, playing the ukulele, parenting, and writing, although not necessarily in that order. After graduating with a degree in writing from North Central University, Benjamin went on to earn a Master of Library and Information Science from St. Catherine University. His work has appeared in several small literary magazines and a collection by queer authors.

(For more about his life and writing visit Benjamin’s web site)

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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, New Release | Tagged , , , , | 7 Comments

UNFORGOTTEN

Posted on July 23, 2021 by Greg Pattridge

Last week I participated in the Unforgotten Blog Tour, a new title about the life of Dian Fossey. There you learned of TWO LIES AND ONE TRUTH about this iconic mountain gorilla researcher, written by author Anita Silvey. Today is my review of this book.

Six chapters reveal the story of Dian’s dedication to these fascinating animals. The road had many successes. Befriending the Gorillas like no one had done before and eventually publishing her book, Gorillas in the MIst were definite highlights. Not left out are the down moments including alcoholism and her murder in 1985.

Pictured bios of the gorillas she became attached to are included. Dian remembered each by their unique noses—no two were alike. The highlights don’t stop there. Full details about The Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund, dedicated to the conservation and protection of gorillas show the great progress made to this day. In 1973 Fossey recorded only 275 gorillas living in Volcanoes National Park; there are about twice that many today.

I particularly enjoyed the back pages where a FIELD NOTES include maps, a timeline of her life, a plant guide, and further resources.

UNFORGOTTEN is an engrossing read with excellent photos. Young readers will be inspired and possibly motivated to pursue their own career in protecting animals. Highly recommended for the school and home library.

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

All you have to do is blog about a middle grade book on a Monday (contests, author interviews, or anything middle grade related also count). 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 please don’t forget to say what book or author 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.
Posted in non fiction | Tagged , , | 3 Comments

MMGM for July 19, 2021

Posted on July 19, 2021 by Greg Pattridge

                 374903

 Sit back and enjoy fantastic Middle Grade reviews and features. Click on a red book to reach your favorite.

55552At ALWAYS in the MIDDLE I have a review of CHUNKY by Yehudi Mercado.

55552Natalie Aguirre at Literary Rambles has an interview with debut author Alysa Wishingrad and a GIVEAWAY of her MG fantasy, The Verdigris Pawn.

55552June McCrary Jacobs at Reading, Writing, & Stitch-Metic announces her new story collection, ‘Banjo and More Anytime Stories for Children,’ available on Amazon’s Kindle Vella.

55552Maria Antonia at OF BOOKS, PHOTOGRAPHY, AND TEA features MY DOG MADE ME WRITE THIS BOOK by Elizabeth Fensham

55552Patricia Tilton at Children’s Books Heal reviews Dragon Pearl byYoon Ha Lee, another Rick Riordan Presents novel.

55552Jenni Enzor has a double feature today: Secret Sisters of the Salty Sea by Lynne Rae Perkins and The Explorer by Katherine Rundell.

55552Rosi Hollinbeck reviews FIGHTING WORDS by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley. Rosi also shares 3 links for her writer friends.

55552Karen Yingling at Ms. Yingling Reads has great reviews all week and today for MMGM she features … LINKED and A SHOT IN THE ARM.
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.
Posted in MMGM Links | Tagged , , | 3 Comments

CHUNKY

Posted on July 18, 2021 by Greg Pattridge

Hudi has always wanted to be a comedian and is a frequent viewer of his favorite show—Saturday Night Live. But life isn’t always a joke. A serious medical issue when he was five left him with only one lung. Now the doctors are urging him to lose weight so his parents push him into sports to increase his level of activity. Not exactly what he wanted to do but an imaginary friend named Chunky is there to be his cheerleader.

First it’s baseball, then soccer, swimming, and tennis. Each one is nothing short of a disaster. Hudi does have some success in football, but his old school Texas coach has vicious methods and would prefer his players take out the other team with a purposeful injury.

Meanwhile, dad loses his job and Chunky keeps encouraging Hudi to pursue his true love— comedy. The story is an autobiographical look into the author’s life transferred into this page turning graphic novel. The only Jewish-Mexican kid in the neighborhood is finally getting to tell his story.

Perfect for graphic novel fans and for those middle graders trying to find their own comfort spot in the world.

BOOK BIRTHDAY: June 22, 2021 PAGE COUNT: 208

FIVE MORE THINGS TO LIKE ABOUT CHUNKY by Yehudi Mercado

  1. A welcome addition to the middle grade level as personal identity is a topic that is often left to the imagination or not covered at all.
  2. Nicely done graphics, especially the two-page spread introducing each of the 7 chapters.
  3. Chunky provides a comical voice of reason. Something a lot of kids could use.
  4. Sports style commentary brought many smiles throughout.
  5. Being true to one self is the flag waving theme and this will be a graphic novel that won’t sit on the shelves for long.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Yehudi Mercado is a former pizza delivery driver and art director for Disney Interactive. He is currently a writer-artist-director living in Los Angeles by way of Austin Texas.

For more visit Yehudi at https://www.supermercado.pizza/

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I received a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review. Comments are welcome below. Also—be sure to visit all the other bloggers on this week’s edition of Marvelous Middle Grade Monday.

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