Tag Archives: MG book reviews

A DOG NAMED 647

Posted on November 14, 2025 by Greg Pattridge

For animal lovers you can’t go wrong with this heartfelt story about a girl desperate to save a dog in a puppy mill. Those who have never owned a dog just might be convinced that it is time they adopt … Continue reading →

Posted in Middle Grade Book Reviews | Tagged , , , , | 2 Comments

THE ABILENE KID – DEAD MAN’S HAND

Posted on July 25, 2025 by Greg Pattridge

The first in a series, DEAD MAN’S HAND is an engaging story advertised as a YA novel. I disagree. The protagonist is 12 and the plot stays within the boundaries of the middle grade world. I solidly recommend the novel … Continue reading →

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BLUE

Posted on January 31, 2025 by Greg Pattridge

A story full of endearing characters and an urgent message about how we are treating Mother Earth. Multiple viewpoints allow readers to get a deep understanding of the fears and strengths each character brings forth. BLUE is the huge tree … Continue reading →

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

Kelcie Murphy and the Hunt for the Heart of Danu

Posted on July 23, 2023 by Greg Pattridge

It’s hard having a father who’s an infamous traitor. It’s even harder having a mother who’s an omen of doom. After a summer away, Kelcie Murphy is excited to be back at the Academy for the Unbreakable Arts. But she … Continue reading →

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

THINGS THAT SURPRISE YOU for Marvelous Middle Grade Monday

Posted on September 11, 2017 by Greg Pattridge

Welcome to MARVELOUS MIDDLE GRADE MONDAY. I’m reviewing this smart new title sure to please readers. But first there are two giveaway opportunities: ******************************** Giveaway at ALWAYS in the MIDDLE: One lucky winner will receive a copy of THINGS THAT … Continue reading →

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THE WARDEN’S DAUGHTER for Marvelous Middle Grade Monday

Posted on September 4, 2017 by Greg Pattridge

I’m off and running into my sixth year at ALWAYS in the MIDDLE. The winners of my Anniversary Giveaway of a book and gift card are: KATHLEEN BURKINSHAW (I LOVE YOU, MICHAEL COLLINS) ROSI HOLLINBECK (MOON SHADOW) MICHAEL GETTEL-GILMARTIN (POSTED) … Continue reading →

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GUARDIANS OF THE GRYPHON’S CLAW for Marvelous Middle Grade Monday

Posted on August 28, 2017 by Greg Pattridge

This enticing new series features a young boy, Sam London, who appears to be connected in some way to mythical creatures. A dream sends him off  to discover the meaning and he gets a brief first meeting with the majestic … Continue reading →

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I LOVE YOU, MICHAEL COLLINS for Marvelous Middle Grade Monday

Posted on August 14, 2017 by Greg Pattridge

1969 will forever be a year that epitomizes what America was all about back then and how we would look at the future. The famous musical festival Woodstock took place on a New York farm with nearly a half million … Continue reading →

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REVENGE OF THE GREEN BANANA for Marvelous Middle Grade Monday

Posted on August 7, 2017 by Greg Pattridge

I was ready for some lighter reading after a summer of heavy duty 300+ page middle grade monstrosities. A story about Jim Murphy’s sixth grade year at St. Stephen’s Elementary School in 1958 Kearny, New Jersey was the perfect remedy. … Continue reading →

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MOON SHADOW for Marvelous Middle Grade Monday

Posted on July 31, 2017 by Greg Pattridge

When I began reading this book a sense of dread hovered over me. I felt myself trapped in  another MG mini-drama filled with divorce, broken friendships, and confused feelings. But wait…a bit of magic saved the day. The magic here … Continue reading →

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