From The Mixed Up Files

I have such a great job where, not only do I get to read books before they come out, but I get to ask the author all about how the book came to be! I learned so much through my interview with Rebecca Bendheim, author of When You’re Brave Enough (due out April 7, 2026).  About the Book Hi Rebecca! I really enjoyed When You’re Brave Enough. This was a true coming-of-age story that addressed many things middle graders are dealing with: religion, sexuality, and friendship. I’m excited to dive in and learn more about...

On March 19, Publisher’s Weekly reported that the U.S. House Committee on Education and the Workforce moved forward with House Resolution (HR) 7661. As recorded on congress.gov, the stated purpose of this bill, sponsored by Rep. Mary Miller (R-IL) is as follows: “To amend the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 to prohibit the use of funds provided under such Act to develop, implement, facilitate, host, or promote any program or activity for, or to provide or promote literature or other materials to, children under the age of 18 that includes sexually oriented material, and for other purposes.”  ...

Changing the clocks for Daylight Saving Time reminded me of how disruptive losing one hour can be, and had me imagining if I could travel through time. These seven spectacular books feature diverse characters, each with a definite reason for visiting another time. Some go to the past for a...

Welcome to STEM Tuesday: Author Interview, a repeating feature for the last Tuesday of every month. Go Science-Tech-Engineering-Math! Today, we’re delighted to welcome Maxwell Eaton, author of Survival Scout: Lost in the Mountains⛰️(May 2023, Roaring Brook Press). This hilarious graphic novel features a strong female main character who has what it takes...

I have such a great job where, not only do I get to read books before they come out, but I get to ask the author all about how the book came to be! I learned so much through my interview with Rebecca Bendheim, author of When You’re Brave Enough...

You turn the crank on the side of the colorful box once, then once again, and then wait.  You turn it slower and slower, rapt in anticipation of that freaky clown’s surprise appearance when the lid springs open. With every turn, your heart beats faster, and your eyes get a...

April showers bring….a storm of brand new Middle Grade Releases. Take a look at the books coming your way this month.     A Potion, a Powder, a Little Bit of Magic Or, Like Lightning in an Umbrella Storm by Philip C. Stead A plucky young goatkeeper sets out on...

I’m delighted to welcome award-winning author Fleur Bradley to the blog. I first discovered Fleur when I devoured her middle grade mystery Midnight at the Barclay Hotel. With its clever clues and spectacular twist, it felt very Agatha Christie for kids. I became an instant fan. She followed with Daybreak on...