Category Archives: Middle Grade

The Secret Library by Kekla Magoon

Posted on August 3, 2024 by Katy K.

The discovery of a hidden library full of secrets takes 12-year-old Dally on adventures through over a century of her family’s history in this thought-provoking adventure. Continue reading →

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Werewolves and Selkies: Benji Zeb is a Ravenous Werewolf and The Selkie’s Daughter

Posted on July 17, 2024 by Katy K.

Here are two tales of fantastical creatures rarely covered in middle grade literature, one contemporary, one historical, both excellent. Continue reading →

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The Cookie Crumbles by Tracy Badua and Alechia Dow

Posted on June 11, 2024 by Katy K.

In this closed-building mystery, two best friends must work together to identify the criminal behind an attempted murder before one of them is unjustly blamed for it – or the would-be murderer strikes again. Continue reading →

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Puzzleheart by Jenn Reese

Posted on May 31, 2024 by Katy K.

A sentient escape house tries to trap its guests in a blizzard, while the kids must keep the adults from making things worse, all complicated by a litter of adorably curious kittens. I have enjoyed many of Jenn Reese’s books, … Continue reading →

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BLOG TOUR! Keep It Like a Secret by John David Anderson

Posted on May 21, 2024 by Katy K.

“Keep It Like a Secret” by John David Anderson is a touching tale of sibling bonds tested by family turmoil. As Morgan tries to bring his family together, he joins his sister Claire on an unexpected adventure, revealing hidden secrets and strengthening their bond. This heartwarming story skillfully balances light-hearted moments with deeper emotional themes. Continue reading →

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A Game of Noctis by Deva Fagan

Posted on May 4, 2024 by Katy K.

I’d been taking an unplanned break from middle grade fantasy when Ms. Fagan emailed me to ask if I’d like to review her latest book.  As I really enjoyed some of her past books, including her 2021 superhero story Nightingale … Continue reading →

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Cybils Middle Grade Fiction Finalists

Posted on April 27, 2024 by Katy K.

I have slowly been working my way through the Cybils finalists by category (my favorite categories, besides the one where I’m a panelist.) I’ve finally finished the middle grade fiction finalists, and am including my brief thoughts here. The Cybils … Continue reading →

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My Top 12 Posts 3-1: LGBTQ+ MG Fantasy, Back to Magic School, and Winter Fantasy

Posted on April 19, 2024 by Katy K.

I’m finishing up my tour of my most popular blog posts of all time with numbers 3-1, all booklists that keep attracting readers. Continue reading →

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My Top 12 Posts: #11 – Maizy Chen’s Last Chance

Posted on March 19, 2024 by Katy K.

In celebration of my 20th blogiversary, I’m reblogging the posts that have gotten the most views in the time they’ve been published. Here is #11, Maizy Chen’s Last Chance. With just 202 lifetime hits, this is not at the top … Continue reading →

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2023 Cybils Middle Grade Graphic Novel Finalists

Posted on February 28, 2024 by Katy K.

The hard-working 2023 Cybils panel picked out their 7 favorite elementary and middle grade graphic novels. Here are my takes, with notes on my kid’s favorites. Continue reading →

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