Tag Archives: backlist

21 Underhyped Middle Grade Books Worth Reading

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21 Underhyped Middle Grade Books Worth Reading

21 Underhyped Middle Grade Books Worth Reading

I recently realized it’s been a while since I shared a list of the books that I loved that just didn’t seem to get the hype they deserved. Some of these middle grade books were published during the early days of Covid, when authors canceled book signings, school visits, and other bookish events. A few of these underhyped middle grade titles are from the ancient days before the pandemic changed life as we knew it. Others were published more recently– perhaps a victim of Barnes & Noble’s switch to carrying mostly paperbacks? I’m not sure what the deal is, but I am sure these books deserve more … Continue reading →

Review: Witchlings by Claribel Ortega

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Witchlings by Claribel Ortega

Witchlings (Witchlings #1)
Claribel Ortega
Scholastic Press
Published April 5, 2022

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About Witchlings

A magical adventure for fans of AMARI AND THE NIGHT BROTHERS and NEVERMOOR, about three witchlings who must work together to do the impossible if they have any hope of earning their full powers.

Every year, in the magical town of Ravenskill, Witchlings who participate in the Black Moon Ceremony are placed into covens and come into their powers as full-fledged witches.

And twelve-year-old Seven Salazar can’t wait to be placed in the most powerful coven with her best friend! But on the night of the ceremony, in front of the entire town, Seven isn’t placed in one of the five covens. … Continue reading →

Review: The Black Flamingo by Dean Atta

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The Black Flamingo by Dean Atta

The Black Flamingo
Dean Atta
Balzer + Bray
Published May 26, 2020 (orig. 2019)

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About The Black Flamingo

A fierce coming-of-age verse novel about identity and the power of drag, from acclaimed poet and performer Dean Atta. Perfect for fans of Elizabeth Acevedo, Jason Reynolds, and Kacen Callender.

Michael is a mixed-race gay teen growing up in London. All his life, he’s navigated what it means to be Greek-Cypriot and Jamaican—but never quite feeling Greek or Black enough.

As he gets older, Michael’s coming out is only the start of learning who he is and where he fits in. When he discovers the Drag Society, … Continue reading →

Review: Me: Moth by Amber McBride

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Me Moth by Amber McBride

Me: Moth
Amber McBride
Feiwel & Friends
Published August 17, 2021

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About Me: Moth

Moth has lost her family in an accident. Though she lives with her aunt, she feels alone and uprooted.

Until she meets Sani, a boy who is also searching for his roots. If he knows more about where he comes from, maybe he’ll be able to understand his ongoing depression. And if Moth can help him feel grounded, then perhaps she too will discover the history she carries in her bones.

Moth and Sani take a road trip that has them chasing ghosts and searching for ancestors. The … Continue reading →

Review: Yes No Maybe So by Becky Albertalli and Aisha Saeed

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Yes No Maybe So by Becky Albertalli and Aisha Saeed

Yes No Maybe So
Becky Albertalli and Aisha Saeed
Balzer + Bray
Published February 4, 2020

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About Yes No Maybe So

YES
Jamie Goldberg is cool with volunteering for his local state senate candidate—as long as he’s behind the scenes. When it comes to speaking to strangers (or, let’s face it, speaking at all to almost anyone), Jamie’s a choke artist. There’s no way he’d ever knock on doors to ask people for their votes…until he meets Maya.

NO
Maya Rehman’s having the worst Ramadan ever. Her best friend is too busy to hang out, her summer trip is … Continue reading →

Review: The Secret Life of Bees by Moira Butterfield

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The Secret Life of Bees by Moira Butterfield

The Secret Life of Bees: Meet the Bees of the World with Buzzwing the Honeybee
Moira Butterfield
Illustrated by Vivian Mineker
Words Pictures
Published May 11, 2021

Amazon | Bookshop | Goodreads

About The Secret Life of Bees

Follow Buzzwing the honeybee on a beautifully illustrated journey through the world of bees filled with amazing science and intriguing folklore.

Welcome to my honey hive home.
It’s where I live with my family.
I’m small and fuzzy and striped black and gold.
I’m Buzzwing the hard-working honey bee!

Did you know that bees love to dance? Or that they have an amazing sense of smell … Continue reading →