THE SWAG IS IN THE SOCKS

Posted on November 21, 2021 by Greg Pattridge

Xavier Moon is not one to steal the show. He’s perfectly content to play video games and sit at his bedroom window watching the neighborhood talk outside.
 
But for Xavier’s twelfth birthday, he receives a pair of funky socks and a challenge from his great-uncle, Frankie Bell, saying it’s time to swag out and speak up. First on the list: get into the legendary Scepter League. Xavier’s grandfather, great-uncle, and father were all invited to join the elite boys’ after-school club that admits only the most suave and confident young men. Xavier has never had the courage to apply before, but his wild socks are getting him some big attention, so maybe it’s time to come out of the shadows and follow in his family’s footsteps. Or maybe Xavier will march down a new path altogether.

(From PENGUIN RANDOM HOUSE)

Xavier Moon, Great name and an equally great narrator in this compelling contemporary story. Xavier’s current situation is not the best to achieve his dream of joining the elite Scepter League. Both parents are in jail and he and an older sister live with their great aunt. Xavier also stutters and it got a lot worse after his parents were sent away.

His outlook on who he wants to be gets a jolt upon receiving the eye-opening birthday letter from his free-spirited great uncle, Frankie Bell. A line like “Far as I can see, you got nothin’, other than the fact you a wire-mouth, stutter. boy with jailbird parents.” sure gets Xavier’s attention. Uncle Frankie is a musician who travels around to gigs and along with more advice in the letter is a pair of socks—navy blue with red and yellow polka dots.

Soon after come more letters and more socks. Xavier is finally convinced to wear the socks and things begin to change. Adults and kids are noticing him in a whole new way. A special teacher helps with stuttering strategies and Frankie’s advice seems to be working. But is any of this really helping him get picked for the Scepter League? A sewing class and a family tragedy lead Xavier to discover more about himself than ever expected—and it’s more than the swag in his socks.

Upbeat and worthy of all the praise coming its way. A memorable and important addition to the MG shelves.

BOOK BIRTHDAY: NOVEMBER 2, 2021 PAGE COUNT: 240

FIVE MORE THINGS TO LIKE ABOUT THE SWAG IS IN THE SOCKS by Kelly J Baptist

  1. Xavier has a large support group and it’s an important piece for any kid. From his older sister and cranky Aunt Kat to his friends at school. They pave the way for the eventual visit from Uncle Frankie Bell. A climatic but perfect way to bring this story to a close.
  2. Stuttering is not the focus of the story. It’s something Xavier is dealing with but in the end this is all about family and how he finds his own way of expression.
  3. Moonie is Xavier’s nickname, but no matter what he’s called this kid will become a favorite for anyone reading his story. A positive character who shines in every chapter.
  4. Not all plot points are solved by the end but it works. Xavier continues to stutter and his parents are still in jail. Despite this, I got the feeling the future is going to be great for Xavier.
  5. Perfect subtle messages about finding your passion and always moving forward.

SOME THOUGHT FROM AUTHOR KELLY J BAPTIST

I have been writing since…well, since I learned how to write!  I started with notes and letters to my parents, then poems and short stories. When I was about eight or nine, my mother took us to see a small-town production of the play A Raisin In The Sun. This was a transformative moment for me because I was captivated by seeing the written word come to life on stage. As soon as we got home, I started writing my own copy-cat version of the play…still have that copy today! 

(For more about Kelly be sure to visit her author web site.)

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COMMENTS ARE WELCOME BELOW!

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ESCAPE BOOK—THE MUSEUM HEIST

Posted on November 19, 2021 by Greg Pattridge

The fourth books in this fun, imaginative series is perfect for grades 4-6. It has elements of the original CHOOSE YOUR OWN ADVENTURE books where you don’t read the pages in order. I carefully followed each clue and eventually solved the case. Here’s the official background from Andrew McMeel Publishing:

What started as a typical family vacation takes a turn for the worse when you and your grandfather, a security guard at the local museum, find yourselves at the center of a serious scandal. It turns out that one of the museum’s masterpieces was stolen on the same night you and your grandfather were taking an after-hours tour—since you were the only two people there, you’re the prime suspects! To prove your innocence, you must now find the stolen masterpiece by observing, analyzing, and investigating like a real detective! Are you ready for an adventure?

The museum was a perfect choice as the setting with different rooms to explore. You’ll find a handy Detective Handbook in the last part of the book where taking notes is the key to success. As you progress a smart cat named Professor Whiskers throws in hints to help with your journey.

Illustrations also have clues and are colorfully spread out through the 96 pages. Great for reluctant readers or anyone else looking for a fun reading experience. It would also work well on trips or when Mother Nature decides it’s best to stay inside on a Saturday. You can read the series in any order:

ESCAPE BOOK— The Museum Heist

ESCAPE BOOK—Madame Mortell’s Haunted House

ESCAPE BOOK—Mystery Island

ESCAPE BOOK—The Cursed Temple

ABOUT THE AUTHOR for THE MUSEUM HEIST and MYSTERY ISLAND

Stéphane Anquetil is an old-school geek. He started playing video games when he was twelve on something called a Videopac G7200. The Choose Your Own Adventure books were an important part of his adolescence, as were text-based adventure games—the real ones, like where you had to write, “Talk cat,” to talk to a cat. After rediscovering a love of board games and writing, today he’s become an author of clever tales equally inspired by historical archives, secret codes, and strange mysteries.

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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.

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MMGM for 11/15/21

Posted on November 15, 2021 by Greg Pattridge

It’s Monday and that means another great list of Middle Grade reviews and features. Be sure to check each one out by clicking on a book stack,

At ALWAYS in the MIDDLE I have a review of FRANKIE AND AMELIA by Cammie McGovern.

Natalie Aguirre at Literary Rambles has an interview with Terry Catasús Jennings and a giveaway of her MG chapter book, Definitely Dominguita Sherlock Dom.

June McCrary Jacobs at Reading, Writing, and Stitch-metic features the non-fiction Camping for Kids.

Author K.A. Cummins has her son, Keagan, taking on the review duties again. He has a review of Spin the Golden Lightbulb by Jackie Yeager.

Sue Heavenrich is over at Sally’s Bookshelf with a feature on Audrey L and Audrey W: Best Friends-ish, by Carter Higgins.

Patricia Tilton at Children’s Books Heal reviews a sparkling new MG novel by Katherine Paterson, Birdie’s Bargain!

COMPLETELY FULL BOOKSHELF reviews Marshmallow & Jordan by Alina Chau—and hosts the Holiday Picture Book Giveaway! 

Maria Antonia features THE MISCALCULATIONS OF LIGHTNING GIRL by Stacy McAnulty

Stephanie Robinson at Fairday’s Blog features The Backyard Secrets of Danny Wexler by Karen Pokra.

Rosi Hollinbeck has a review and GIVEAWAY of  Welcome Back, Maple Mehta-Cohen by Kate McGovern. Rosie also has three special links for her writing friends.

Karen Yingling at Mrs. Yingling Reads always has a fantastic MMGM review. Be sure to check it out along with her other reviews last week including THE HOLIDAY SWITCH.

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FRANKIE and AMELIA

Posted on November 14, 2021 by Greg Pattridge

If books narrated by animals aren’t your thing, you still might want to spend some time with Frankie the cat. He’s been on the loose and can’t find his way home. A series of chance meetings eventually lead him to Amelia, a girl whose choices and fears are ones often found with those on the autism spectrum.

Chester and Gus, from the previous story by the same name, play a part in this new story. No problem if you haven’t read the critically acclaimed tale about Gus and his his service dog before reading this one. Frankie and Amelia stands well on its own. Here’s the official background:

After being separated from his family, Franklin becomes an independent cat, until he meets a goofy dog named Chester. Chester is a service dog to his person, a boy named Gus, and Chester knows just the girl to be Franklin’s person—Gus’s classmate, Amelia.

Amelia loves cats, but has a harder time with people. Franklin understands her, though, and sees how much they have in common. When Amelia gets into some trouble at school, Franklin wants to help the girl who’s done so much to help him. He’s not sure how, yet, but he’s determined to try.

This sweet and moving novel demonstrates how powerful the bond between pets and people can be, while thoughtfully depicting a neurodivergent tween’s experience.

Frankie’s narration is superbly crafted and keeps what could have been a slow moving story into a journey of discovery. The loneliness and fears Amelia displays are heartbreaking. Frankie is a great observer. He wants to help but doesn’t know how. Thankfully, there is Chester who occasionally drops in for support and has some memorable conversations with Frankie.

Readers will learn about neurodivergence (a term for people whose brains function differently in one or more ways) and autism, one of the main types of neurodiversity. The thirty chapters would work well as a read-aloud and discussion starter toward understanding. There’s no resolution with Frankie’s previous family but maybe there will be more from these characters in the future.

FIVE MORE THINGS TO LIKE ABOUT FRANKIE and AMELIA by Cammie McGovern

  1. I haven’t had a cat since I was 10 years old, but I sure understand them better after Frankie clued me in.
  2. A story about acceptance and love, something this world could use a lot more of right now.
  3. The bond between animals and humans is given center stage along with what makes the connection so important. Those that own a dog or cat will smile in agreement and others might just long for a pet of their own.
  4. The healing power of friendship is given a unique turn in this tale.
  5. The parent’s separation and Dad’s new life with another lady is another hurdle Amelia has to contend with and understand. This story line handled this nicely with at least some resolution.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Cammie McGovern is the author of HARD LANDINGS, a memoir about the transition her oldest son, who has autism, made into adult services.  She has also written three books for young adults, SAY WHAT YOU WILL, A STEP TOWARD FALLING, and JUST BREATHE, and three books for middle-grade readers, JUST MY LUCK, CHESTER AND GUS, and FRANKIE AND AMELIA. All feature young people with a variety of disabilities at the center. She has been widely honored for her work advocating on behalf of people with disabilities.  Her books have been called “joyful, inspiring and unforgettable,” by Katherine Applegate. In addition to writing for The New York Times, Ladies Home Journal, Redbook, and other magazines, she has also written three adult novels and is one of the proud founders of Whole Children/Milestones, a resource center for children and young adults with disabilities and their families. She lives in Amherst, MA with her husband and three sons.

(For more about Cammie and her books visit her web site)

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

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NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC KIDS’ DAY

Posted on November 12, 2021 by Greg Pattridge

At least it is here at ALWAYS in the MIDDLE because I have two enticing new books from NGK to tell you about. First up is ZEUS THE MIGHTY—The Trials of Hairy-Clees, the third book in this fiction series.

I had not read the first two stories: The Quest for the Golden Fleas or The Maze of the Menacing Minotaur. Thanks to the two-page spread in the front that introduces the background of each character, I had no problem jumping in at Book 3.

Welcome to Mount Olympus, a pet supply and rescue center that sits high on a hill in Athens, Georgia. The overconfident hamster Zeus, wise cat Athena, and other rescued pets live there under the watchful eye of their caretaker, Artie, who’s obsessed with Greek mythology. The pets overhear her favorite podcast, Greeking Out, and now believe themselves to be the actual megastars of mythology!  Book 3 begins with a challenge: The Trials of Hairy-Clees are only for the bravest and most awesome gods of all. Who among them will become the ultimate champion? The pets of Mount Olympus Pet Center are a true team: They conquer epic quests as easily as Ares the pug scarfs down Mutt Nuggets and they vanquish enemies who are pricklier than the spines on Poseidon the pufferfish. But when a chicken named Hermes shows up one day, things take a turn, and before the team knows it, the Oracle has spoken and the mysterious Trials of Hairy-Clees begin! Who will become top god? And can Zeus learn to share the limelight to fight alongside Hermes?

If you love Greek Mythology this one is for you. The 32 chapters are a quick read and include many fun illustrations depicting the action going on in each scene. Humorous dialog can be found throughout. Although Zeus is in charge (sort of), I’d have to go with Hermes the chicken as my favorite character. Her brave, never give up attitude won me over.

A bonus comes in the back pages devoted to THE TRUTH BEHIND THE FICTION, MEET THE OLYMPIANS (brief bio of each of the 12 original Olympians the Greeks admired), THE MYTH OF HERACLES, and a sneak preview of Book 4, THE EPIC ESCAPE FROM THE UNDERGROUND due out next year.

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In September I took part in the blog tour for THE ULTIMATE BOOK OF AFRICAN ANIMALS and today I can give you a few more details about what’s inside.

Eight-time Emmy award-winning filmmakers, Beverly and Derek Joubert, have assembled a stunning compilation of photos and facts about African animals. The eight chapters guide you on a journey like none other:

  • SPOTTED ON SAFARI
  • BUILT TO SURVIVE
  • UNLIKELY ALLIES AND BITTER ENEMIES
  • ANIMAL MYSTERIES
  • ANIMAL MYTHS BUSTED!
  • ANIMAL ANCESTORS
  • SUPER CREATURES
  • SAVING SPECIES

My first time through this gift worthy volume was just a look at the pictures. A few had me gasping out loud, especially the ones in a two page spread entitled MOMENT OF AWWW!! We’ve all seen photos of these beautiful creatures before but none quite like these depicting them in natural habitats while engaging in their normal behavior.

Next I went back and read the text. The information provided was clear and concise. I especially enjoyed each chapter’s JOURNEY WITH THE JOUBERTS as they detail their personal experiences and close encounters with wildlife. The book comes to a perfect end with what we can do to help these species stay around for generations to come.

With the holidays shining brightly ahead, you can’t go wrong with wrapping this up for the animal loving individual in your life. THE ULTIMATE BOOK OF AFRICAN ANIMALS truly is the ultimate gift.

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(I received a copy of both books to use in my feature today)

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.
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MMGM for 11/8/21

Posted on November 8, 2021 by Greg Pattridge

It’s Monday and that means another great list of Middle Grade reviews and features. Be sure to check each one out by clicking on the checkmark,

At ALWAYS in the MIDDLE I have a review of SORRY FOR YOUR LOSS by Joanne Levy, about a terrible tragedy and the heartwarming healing process that follows.

Natalie Aguirre at Literary Rambles has a guest post by debut author Jessica Speer and a giveaway of her MG nonfiction BFF or NRF (Not Really Friends)? A Girls Guide to Happy Friendships

June McCrary Jacobs at Reading, Writing, and Stitch-metic features The Complete Baking Book for Young Chefs’.

Patricia Tilton at Children’s Books Heal reviews River Magic by Ellen Booraem, a fun magical read.

Maria Antonia features INVISIBLE EMMIE by Terri Libenson, a graphic novel from the Emmie and Friends series.

Michelle Isenhoff reviews Beverly Cleary’s classic The Mouse and the Motorcycle trilogy.

Rosi Hollinbeck has a review and GIVEAWAY of THE INSIDERS by Mark Oshiro. Rosie also has three special links for her writing friends.

Karen Yingling at Mrs. Yingling Reads always has a fantastic MMGM review. Be sure to check it out along with her other reviews last week including A-OKAY.

Posted in Book Lists, Middle Grade Book Reviews | Tagged , , | 1 Comment

SORRY FOR YOUR LOSS

Posted on November 7, 2021 by Greg Pattridge

Last month I featured A CASE OF GRAVE DANGER about a girl whose family is in the funeral business. Set in the Victorian era the story was filled with scary scenes. I never expected to be reading another book about a girl and her family’s cemetery business, but I’m glad I came across SORRY FOR YOUR LOSS.

Evie Walman is not obsessed with death. She does think about it a lot, though, but only because her family runs a Jewish funeral home. At twelve, Evie already knows she’s going to be a funeral director when she grows up. So what if the kids at school call her “corpse girl” and say she smells like death? They’re just mean and don’t get how important it is to have someone take care of things when your world is falling apart. Evie loves dusting caskets, polishing pews, and vacuuming the chapel―and on funeral days, she dresses up and hands out tissues and offers her condolences to mourners. She doesn’t normally help her parents with the grieving families directly, until one day when they ask her to help with Oren, a boy who was in a horrific car accident that killed both his parents. Oren refuses to speak and Evie, who is nursing her own private grief, is determined to find a way to help him deal with his loss.

The combination of Evie and Oren as the young characters dealing with tragedy was beautifully handled. Despite the sad background for the story, these two kids say more about overcoming grief than any book I’ve ever come across. It never goes away completely, but the plot here gives it a hopeful dose of resolution.

Evie’s first person narration is a realistic portrayal of the healing process needed when someone close to you dies. Her loving parents are there for Evie and appreciate her trying to help Oren get through his loss. The heartfelt scenes with Evie talking individually with each parent show the power of a family truly there for each other.

But her scenes with Oren are what make this story special. Evie wonders if she is any help at all. Oren won’t talk but eventually the truth as to why comes forth in a tearful climatic way. Wonderful character arcs for each. Humor propels this story to one of my favorite contemporary reads this year.

SORRY FOR YOUR LOSS is heartwarming, bold, and helpful.

BOOK BIRTHDAY: October 12, 2021 PAGE COUNT: 266

FIVE MORE THINGS TO LIKE ABOUT SORRY FOR YOUR LOSS by Joanne Levy

  1. You get a full understanding of Jewish customs and beliefs. They were presented within the context of the story, making them easy to remember and understand.
  2. Evie likes to create art using paper quilling. I’d never heard of this art form but discovered its healing powers as do the characters. Art therapy for sure.
  3. I cringed each time Evie was approached by her two hateful classmates. The story line allows for some resolution in a perfect kid like way.
  4. A tale about grief and death is expertly woven into the real story about healing and family. So well done it had me wanting to read this again.
  5. Bibliotherapy is a term used to describe books that heal those in need. This one shines on all accounts.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Joanne Levy’s love of books began at a very early age. Being the youngest and the only female among four children, she was often left to her own devices and could frequently be found sitting in a quiet corner with her nose in a book. Now that she’s a grown up, Joanne is most often at her computer, channeling her younger self into the books she writes for kids who enjoy reading in quiet corners.

Joanne still lives in Ontario with her husband and kids of the furred and feathered variety. You can follow Joanne on Instagram or find her on Facebook.

(For more visit Joanne’s author web site)

COMMENTS ARE WELCOME BELOW…

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BEASTS AND BEAUTY

Posted on November 5, 2021 by Greg Pattridge

An interesting collection of fairy tales retold with an updated slant. You’ll find more diverse characters and in many cases a darker version of the original story. Intended for 5th grade and up, several of the tales include themes which fit more into the YA category, but many others would be fine for the upper middle grade audience. The 12 chapter lineup have names familiar to most:

RED RIDING HOOD

SNOW WHITE

SLEEPING BEAUTY

RAPUNZEL

JACK AND THE BEANSTALK

HANSEL AND GRETEL

BEAUTY AND THE BEAST

BLUEBEARD

CINDERELLA

THE LITTLE MERMAID

RUMPELSTILTSKIN

PETER PAN

You can read these in any order as they are all separate stories. Everyone for sure will have their favorites. Mine were HANSEL and GRETEL, BEAUTY and the BEAST, and a third which was not a retelling but a continuation of Wendy’s life after PETER PAN and Neverland. I’d say they saved the best for last.

Although the 336 pages might be overwhelming for some, the tales flow by quickly, interspersed with excellent illustrations and color drawings. The debate can begin whether these new endings are better than the originals.

BEASTS AND BEAUTY DANGEROUS TALES was released on 9/21/21.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Soman Chainani’s debut series, THE SCHOOL FOR GOOD AND EVIL, has sold more than 3 million copies, been translated into 30 languages across 6 continents, and will be a major motion picture from Netflix in 2022.

Each of the six books in the series — THE SCHOOL FOR GOOD AND EVIL, A WORLD WITHOUT PRINCES, THE LAST EVER AFTER, QUESTS FOR GLORY,A CRYSTAL OF TIME, and ONE TRUE KING — have debuted on the New York Times Bestseller list. Together the books have been on the print and extended lists for 38 weeks.

A graduate of Harvard University and Columbia University’s MFA Film Program, Soman began his career as a screenwriter and director, with his films playing at over 150 film festivals around the world. He has been nominated for the Waterstone Prize for Children’s Literature, been named to the Out100, and also received the $100,000 Shasha Grant and the Sun Valley Writer’s Fellowship, both for debut writers.

Soman’s latest book, BEASTS & BEAUTY, is an instant New York Times Bestseller and will soon be published in 10 languages. It is his seventh New York Times bestseller in a row.

(For more visit Soman’s web site)

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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.

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MMGM for November 1, 2021

Posted on November 1, 2021 by Greg Pattridge

                   November Clipart 10884 

A new month! Start it out right with these Middle Grade book reviews and features. Click on the corn to get started.

November Clipart 10897At ALWAYS in the MIDDLE I’m reviewing Barakah Beats by Maleeha Siddiqui, based on her own experiences growing up in America as a young practicing Muslim.

November Clipart 10897June McCrary Jacobs at Reading, Writing, & Stitch-Metic has the blog tour stop for a holiday fantasy novel, ‘Gobbledy’, by  Lis Anna-Langston. Included is a author guest post and a GIVEAWAY.

November Clipart 10897Patricia Tilton at Children’s Books Heal reviews Crashing into Love by Jennifer Richard Jacobson for ages 10-14. The title is misleading. Perfect middle grade read!

November Clipart 10897Maria Antonia at OF BOOKS, PHOTOGRAPHY, AND TEA has a review of NESSIE QUEST by Melissa Savage.

November Clipart 10897Rosi Hollinbeck reviews MARCUS MAKES A MOVIE by Kevin Hart. Rosi also shares 3 links for her writing friends.

November Clipart 10897Karen Yingling at Ms. Yingling Reads always has a great MMGM review. Check it out along with last Friday’s feature on FRANKIE & BUG.

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.
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Barakah Beats

Posted on October 31, 2021 by Greg Pattridge

New school, new friends, and tough internal struggles for 12-year-old Nimra Sharif. Barakah Beats melds the growing turmoil into an engaging story.

Nimra has only ever attended an Islamic school but now faces her first experience in a middle school. Best friend Jenna is there to provide support having always gone to public school. It’s apparent though after the first day’s tour Jenna would rather spend time with her regular friends. A situation very confusing and hurtful for Nimra.

She finds a place to pray during lunch which happens to be next to the music room where the 8th grade boy band, Barakah Beats, is rehearsing. They hear 7th grader Nimra singing a prayer and invite her to be part of the group. Joining would mean possibly winning her friend’s attention back. Barakah Beats are admired by almost everyone at the school.

But Nimra’s family does not approve of music or dancing in their religions, although it is made clear not all Muslims share the same belief. Nimra joins the band intending to drop out after getting back her friend, hopefully before her parents find out about her extra-curricular activity.

This might work until the band accepts an invitation to participate in a local talent show. The corner she’s back herself into will either make the band upset if she quits (along with her plan to gaining back her best friend) or her parents upset if she doesn’t. It all peaks into a satisfying conclusion, although one you might not expect.

Staying true to your beliefs is difficult for any middle school age kid. It becomes even more difficult in regards to your religion when it conflicts with the middle school environment. Nimra’s character ARC is flows perfectly, discovering what is important as she engages in her beliefs. Both girls and boys from ages 8 and up would enjoy this story and learn the truth about many aspects of an often misunderstood faith.

BOOK BIRTHDAY: October 19, 2021 PAGE COUNT: 288

FIVE MORE THINGS TO LIKE ABOUT BARAKAH BEATS by Nimra Sharif

  1. The three boy members of the band each had their strengths and were a welcome support group for the younger Nimra. Fun kids with a passion for music.
  2. It was heartwarming to see outsider Nimra make new friends so quickly upon arriving in a new school. It often doesn’t happen that way.
  3. The first person narration flows smoothly through 28 chapters. Many of them had me wanting to read just one more before lights out.
  4. Faith, Family, Friends. A tough trio to make sense of and brought forth so well in this plot. Many chances for discussion in the classroom or home.
  5. A great story no matter what religion you bring to the table.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Maleeha Siddiqui is an American writer of Pakistani descent who loves to tell unapologetically Muslim stories for all ages. By day, Maleeha works as a regulatory affairs professional in the biotech industry. She grew up and continues to reside with her family in Virginia. “Barakah Beats” (Scholastic 2021) is her debut novel.

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Comments are welcome below!

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