Category Archives: Books

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 →

Posted in Books, Fantasy, Middle Grade | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 3 Comments

2023 Cybils Young Adult Speculative Fiction Finalists

Posted on June 30, 2024 by Katy K.

I always like to see what my counterparts on the Cybils young adult speculative fiction panel have chosen as finalists! I started listening to these first thing in January, and only realized when I went to start writing reviews that … Continue reading →

Posted in Books, Lists, Reviews, Teen/Young Adult | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 5 Comments

Interview with Illustrator Bea Jackson: Creating Joyful Art for SUMMER IS HERE

Posted on June 22, 2024 by Katy K.

Read on for an interview with Bea Jackson, the illustrator of the gorgeous new book SUMMER IS HERE by Renée Watson (of Piecing Me Together and Ways to Make Sunshine), as well as the best-selling PARKER LOOKS UP! As you all … Continue reading →

Posted in Books, picture books, Print, Realistic | Tagged , , , , , , , , | 3 Comments

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 →

Posted in Middle Grade, Mystery, Print, Reviews | Tagged , , , , , , , | 2 Comments

Cybils 2024 Summer Reading: Join the Middle Grade Speculative Fiction Panel!

Posted on June 9, 2024 by Katy K.

In case you missed it, there will be Cybils summer reading again. This year, I’m excited (and a bit nervous) to be the chair of the middle grade speculative fiction panel! Just picture how fun your summer will be, reading … 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 →

Posted in Books, Fantasy, Middle Grade, Print, Reviews | Tagged , , , , | 2 Comments

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 →

Posted in Books, Fantasy, Middle Grade, Print | Tagged , , , , , , , | 3 Comments

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 →

Posted in Audiobook, Books, Lists, Middle Grade, Print, Realistic | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , | 3 Comments

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 →

Posted in Books, Lists, Middle Grade | Tagged , , , , , , , | 4 Comments