All it takes is one word to launch you on a new adventure! Jolene Gutiérrez shares how a picture book manuscript grew into a middle grade nonfiction book, and also how she embraced opportunity to stretch herself in the process. And thank you, Jolene, for offering a copy of your book to one lucky winner! … More Behind the Scenes: “The Power of Yes!” by Jolene Gutiérrez
Oh, such a special treat today! It just so happens that the Books Brothers are off of school and have time to share some of their thoughts about books. First I asked about any favorite picture books. Paxton, age 8, says that funny ones are his favorites. Some of the titles he’s read over and … More Introducing the Books Brothers!
These days, picture books come in all sizes and lengths. There are so many new ones that are longer, meant for upper elementary and middle school aged kids. Yes, picture books are not just for little ones anymore! Yay! Because I think this unique art form is perfect in so many ways—and here’s an example … More Countdown, 2979 Days to the Moon
Every once in a while I like to include a recommendation for middle grade books. I haven’t featured one in a while, so when the publisher offered to send me a copy of THIS PROMISE OF CHANGE for review, I welcomed the opportunity. This is an important book for young readers anytime. May we all … More This Promise of Change
Today Kristin Gray shares her process of finding the heart in her middle grade novel and its irresistible main character, Vilonia Beebe. Thank you, Beth, for having me on your blog. I’m delighted to be here. I adore stories with heart. Heart is more than sappy emotions or a feeling. It is enthusiasm, passion, resolve, … More Mining for Heart: Kristin Gray on Connecting to Characters
Next week, author Kristin Gray will share her thoughts on Mining for Heart. In the meantime, enjoy her fantastic debut middle grade novel. Title: Vilonia Beebe Takes Charge Written by: Kristin L. Gray Suitable for ages: 8-12 Simon & Schuster, 2017, fiction Themes/topics: pets, responsibility, family Opening: The day I was born I was four … More Vilonia Beebe Takes Charge
An illustrated journey … from the Big Bang to the present. … More Timeline, A Visual History of Our World
Celebrate science in 2017! … More Maker Lab: 28 Super Cool Projects
Some Fridays, I share middle grade titles. Others, I share picture books. Today, I offer a special combo – a middle grade biography filled with pictures. Check it out! Title: Some Writer! The Story of E.B.White Written and Illustrated by: Melissa Sweet Hougton Miflin Harcourt, biography 2016, 176 pp. Suitable for ages: 7-10 Lexile: 1030 … More Some Writer!
Just released! Middle grade monster mayhem! Title: From the Grave Written by: Cynthia Reeg Release date October 18, 2016 Suitable for ages: 9-12 Juvenile fiction, fantasy, humor Themes/topics: belonging, tolerance, monsters Opening: Shocktober 13, Year of the Scrull Moanday morning, with all its determined drear, crept upon me with silent, somber feet. It settled heavy … More From the Grave
