Category Archives: Genre

Magical Schools: Wildseed Witch and Onyeka and the Academy of the Sun

Here are two exciting new magical school books, both with kids at all-Black schools, one drawing on Louisiana’s Black history and one set in a futuristic Nigeria. Continue reading

Posted in Audiobook, Fantasy, Middle Grade, Print, Sci-Fi | Tagged , , , , , | 13 Comments

A Taste of Magic by J. Elle

Here’s a sparkling and delicious new story of a 12-year-old learning magic, baking and other secrets in her inner city neighborhood magic academy. Continue reading

Posted in books, Fantasy, Middle Grade, Print | Tagged , , , , | 6 Comments

Blog Tour! HOMEBOUND by John David Anderson

If you love thrilling space adventures and galactic war combined with found and real family and reflections on the meaning of life, read on! Continue reading

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How to Be Brave by Daisy May Johnson

Here’s a smart, modern British boarding school story, packed with humor, friendships, footnotes, bravery and British baked goods. Continue reading

Posted in books, Middle Grade, Print, Realistic | Tagged , , , , | 2 Comments

Pepper’s Rules for Secret Sleuthing by Briana McDonald

I have finally gotten around to reading my daughter’s absolute favorite mystery book. Continue reading

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Castle of Tangled Magic by Sophie Anderson

What happens when a girl, a fox spirit, and a cranky witch team up to save a magical castle? Continue reading

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Fenris and Mott by Greg van Eekhout

Who doesn’t want to read a fast-paced middle grade fantasy combining Norse mythology with magical puppy mayhem? Continue reading

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Every Bird a Prince by Jenn Reese

The shifting landscape of seventh grade combines with the unseen magical battles in the nearby woods.   Continue reading

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

#MGReadathon Finish Line

Here’s my wrap-up, with reviews of It’s the End of the World and I’m in My Bathing Suit and Valentina Salazar is NOT a Monster Hunter. Continue reading

Posted in Audiobook, books, Challenges, Fantasy, Middle Grade, Print, Realistic | Tagged , , , , , , , , , | 3 Comments

The Last Mapmaker by Christina Soontornvat

Here’s another lovely Thai-inspired historical fiction/fantasy book from Christina Soontornvat, whose earlier books A Wish in the Dark and All Thirteen won Newbery Honors the same year. Continue reading

Posted in Audiobook, Fantasy, Historical, Middle Grade | Tagged , , , , , | 7 Comments