From The Mixed Up Files

  You might not realize it, but we use math every day! We use math when playing games, sharing snacks, telling time, shopping, and building things. In these books, readers can practice mathematical tips and strategies, solve logic puzzles, learn about inspirational mathematicians, and more. They make a great starting point for classroom discussion and activities!   Calculating Chimpanzees, Brainy Bees, and Other Animals with Mind-Blowing Mathematical Abilities by Stephanie Gibeault and illustrated by Jaclyn Sinquett This book explores the remarkable mathematical abilities of five animals: guppies, hyenas, African grey parrots, chimpanzees, and honeybees. This 2025...

Want to protect writers and have a character named after you or someone you love in a book by an author like David Baldacci, Jennifer Egan, or Brigid Kemmerer? You’re in luck. Place the winning bid in the PEN America Character Naming Auction and not only will you see your name in a future book, along with a signed copy, but you’ll support PEN America’s Author Safety Program, a program designed to protect writers facing harassment, threats, and intimidation both online and in person. The auction ends on May 15, 2026 @ 5:00 PM ET, so go here to get your...

Hey, it’s May! And lots of shiny, new middle grade books are making their way into readers’ hands. Here are a few to check out! Two books in the new Scholastic series: Magic Gems, by Payal Doshi Journey Through the Waterfall (Magic Gems #1) Lily the Water Gem helps her...

  You might not realize it, but we use math every day! We use math when playing games, sharing snacks, telling time, shopping, and building things. In these books, readers can practice mathematical tips and strategies, solve logic puzzles, learn about inspirational mathematicians, and more. They make a great starting...

All About Mike Hays From the Mixed-Up Files is a place to celebrate middle grade books—new books, collections of books on a particular theme, STEM books—as well as a place to interview authors. Now I get to celebrate a fellow MUF blogger: Mike Hays, who has been a part of...

On July Fourth, 2026, the United States will be celebrating the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. There has already been a number of events celebrating the 250th with many more to come. What better way to get your students engaged in learning about this time...

From Pura Belpré Honor recipient Angela Cervantes and perfectly timed for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, The Mystery of the Stolen World Cup Trophy follows 12-year-old sleuth Diez Espada on a high-stakes case as he tracks down the tournament’s stolen trophy in time for the championship match. Also available in Spanish!...

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...