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According to a report by Circana, sales of middle grade books have been declining since 2022, with a 5% decrease in print unit sales in the first half of 2024 compared to the same period in 2023. Factors such as increased screen time and a focus on reading skills rather than enjoyment in education are believed to contribute to the decline in reading for fun among middle grade readers. However, authors, editors, and booksellers suggest that the decline is cyclical and can be addressed by creating engaging and entertaining books, giving kids choices in their reading selections, and fostering a supportive reading environment. They also emphasize the need for the publishing industry to adapt and collaborate with readers and educators to make reading fun again. Strategies to engage middle grade readers include offering books in different formats, such as graphic novels and illustrated novels, and releasing books in smaller installments on a faster schedule. Creating a sense of community and connection around books through events, online platforms, and interactive tools can also make reading more appealing to middle grade readers. Despite the challenges, there is still enthusiasm for reading among young readers, and it is important for publishers and authors to continue producing books for this age group. [Extracted from the article]

"Daniel Stone and the Magical Scarves" is a middle-grade fantasy novel by M.E. Champey. The story follows Daniel Stone, a 12-year-old boy who struggles with his studies and gym class at school. However, his life changes when his grandmother's scarf, which possesses transfiguration magic, saves his life and grants him the ability to turn it into anything he thinks of. Daniel becomes a hero in his town but must retrieve the scarf when it falls into the wrong hands. The book explores themes of friendship, family, and the importance of treating others with kindness. [Extracted from the article]

In "Moral Injuries" by Christie Watson, three London doctors face a challenging situation that tests their friendship and ethics. Olivia, Laura, and Anjali are confronted with a secret from their past when Olivia's daughter attends a party with Laura's son, resulting in a boy named Joe sustaining brain damage. As Joe remains in a coma, Laura and Olivia try to protect their children's futures, while Anjali pushes for a different approach. The story delves into the complexities of medicine and the moral dilemmas faced by healthcare professionals. [Extracted from the article]

"Shattered Treasure: A Carolina Beach Romance" by Cindy Patterson is a Christian-focused romance novel that tackles powerful topics with grace. The story follows college student Addison Morgan, who is dealing with the loss of her sister and an abusive boyfriend. After a car accident, Addison meets Ami Tant and her brother Logan, who help her navigate her difficult circumstances. The book explores themes of trauma, faith, and the power of prayer. Readers who have experienced intimate partner violence should be aware that the novel may be triggering, but Patterson handles these difficult topics with sensitivity. [Extracted from the article]

"The Girls of Skylark Lane" by Robin Benway is a heartwarming middle grade novel about twelve-year-old twin sisters, Aggie and Jac, who have mixed feelings about moving from San Francisco to Los Angeles. Aggie worries about fitting in, while Jac is excited for a fresh start. They befriend a classmate named Tink and join her ragtag softball team, where they bond with their new friends and navigate the challenges of growing up. The book emphasizes the importance of friendship, family, and forgiveness in helping tweens navigate early adolescence. The cover of the book depicts characters with varying skin tones, promoting diversity. [Extracted from the article]

"The Reindeer Remainders: A Math Story with Plenty of Heart" is a children's book written by Katey Howes and illustrated by Marie Hermansson. The story combines mathematical concepts with social-emotional learning as a group of 12 reindeer prepare for a school showcase. However, their efforts to form even-numbered groups are complicated when a 13th reindeer arrives. Throughout the day, the reindeer try to divide into smaller clusters but always end up with a "remain-DEER one." Eventually, their math instructor introduces them to prime numbers, and they find a solution that leaves them "undivided." The book includes back matter with additional information about remainders, primes, and inclusion. Suitable for ages 4-8. [Extracted from the article]

"The Book Swap" by Tessa Bickers is a debut novel that tells the story of Erin Connolly, a woman who accidentally donates a cherished book to a community library. The book contains a postcard from her deceased childhood friend, Bonnie. Erin is surprised when the book is returned to her with additional notes, leading her to become pen pals with the mysterious author. The novel explores how Erin and the author, James, bond through literature and how it impacts their lives. While the plot follows a rom-com structure and the setup is somewhat heavy-handed, the book is praised for its depiction of the power of literature. [Extracted from the article]

"A Lesson for Every Child: Learning About Food Allergies" is a picture book by Sally Huss and Elizabeth Hamilton-Guarino that tells the story of a young boy named Jack who shares his experience of living with food allergies. When Jack starts a new school, his teacher encourages him to educate his classmates about the seriousness of food allergies. Through a Q&A format, Jack explains the importance of emergency treatment, the snacks he must avoid, and the challenges he faces. The book emphasizes the need for understanding and support from others, and includes additional learning resources for children. [Extracted from the article]

"Home in a Lunchbox" is a children's book by Cherry Mo that tells the story of Jun, a child who recently moved from Hong Kong to an American suburb. Jun is seen standing at a bus stop with three translated words written on their palm, worrying about responding to a peer's greeting. Throughout the week, Jun navigates school and a grayed-out world where others' conversations are depicted as scribbles. Memories of home and images of Jun's lunch box, depicted in full-color illustrations, provide comfort and love. The following Monday, the lunch box becomes a bridge to friendship. The book features digital illustrations that use selective coloring to depict the experience of finding common ground. It includes a glossary of Cantonese words and a diagram of Jun's lunch box. The background characters in the book are portrayed with various skin tones. The book is recommended for ages 4-8. [Extracted from the article]

Archie and Pip: The First Day of School is a children's book written by Zoe Wodarz and illustrated by Mari Richards. The story follows animal siblings Archie and Pip as they prepare for the start of the school year. Archie, a pink pig, worries about sitting still all day in kindergarten, while Pip, a blue platypus, is concerned that Archie will make new friends and forget about him. The book portrays a reassuring and conflict-free plot, presenting school as both fun and manageable. The illustrations by Mari Richards emphasize the siblings' affection and create a friendly, small-town atmosphere. The book is recommended for children aged 4-7. [Extracted from the article]

"Rise of Pegasus (School for Magical Monsters #1)" is a children's chapter book by Joan Holub and Suzanne Williams. The story follows Pegasus, a young mythical creature, as he attends the School for Magical Monsters and discovers his own magical power. Pegasus makes new friends, including Zeus, and faces challenges along the way. The book combines engaging language with elements of Greek mythology and features illustrations by Toby Allen. It also includes a glossary, discussion questions, and an author's note. Recommended for ages 5-8. [Extracted from the article]

"Free to Learn: How Alfredo Lopez Fought for the Right to Go to School" is a children's book written by Cynthia Levinson and illustrated by Mirelle Ortega. The book tells the fictionalized story of Alfredo Lopez, a young boy in the 1970s who is unable to attend school due to his undocumented status in Texas. The story follows Alfredo's parents as they fight in court to challenge a state law that prohibits undocumented students from attending school. The book features diverse characters and includes additional information about the real-life events that inspired the story. Recommended for ages 4-8. [Extracted from the article]

This article discusses the experiences of two authors, Malia Maunakea and Veronica Roth, who have participated in school visits organized by Writers and Artists Across the Country (WAAC). Maunakea, author of the Lei and the Legends series, was able to visit 20 schools in Hawaii and distribute copies of her book to students. She describes it as one of the best experiences of her life, as she was able to connect with the students and share stories that resonated with their cultural background. Roth, on the other hand, emphasizes the importance of giving schools with limited resources the opportunity to host authors, as it benefits both the students and the authors. She has done two visits with WAAC, one in person and one virtual, and found them to be successful in engaging students and fostering their interest in reading and creative work. [Extracted from the article]

"Emergency Quarters" is a children's book by Carlos Matias, illustrated by Gracey Zhang. The story follows Ernesto, a young boy who receives a quarter from his mother every morning for emergencies. Despite the temptation to spend the money on treats, Ernesto holds onto his quarters until a real emergency arises at the barber shop. The book explores Ernesto's Dominican family, his Queens community, and his ability to make independent decisions. The illustrations by Zhang bring the story to life with vibrant energy. Suitable for children aged 4 to 8. [Extracted from the article]

"The Things We Miss" by Leah Stecher is a speculative and heartrending debut novel that explores the joys and sorrows of seventh grade. The story follows Joan Phyllis "J.P." Green, who faces bullying due to anti-fat bias on her first day of school. When she discovers a magical door that allows her to skip ahead in time, J.P. uses it as an escape from the difficulties of middle school and her grandfather's cancer treatments. The book sensitively portrays the consequences of avoiding life's challenges and the catharsis that comes from facing them. J.P. and her family are Jewish and appear to be white, while her best friend Kevin is Japanese American. This novel is recommended for readers aged 9-12. [Extracted from the article]

Though it's unclear how much he knew of Booth's plans, Colchester repeatedly warned Lincoln to be careful. Despite the popularity of spiritualism, there were only about a dozen "top-tier" mediums, according to Alford, and their interactions with the prominent Booth and Lincoln families overlapped in tantalizing ways. FEATURES In the frantic moments after John Wilkes Booth shot Abraham Lincoln in the back of the head on Apr. 14, 1865, the president's unconscious body was carried to the bedroom of a townhouse across the street from Ford's Theatre in Washington, D.C. As doctors worked through the night to relieve the pressure on Lincoln's brain, his blood seeped into the pillows of the room's single bed - on which Booth himself had napped just a few weeks prior. [Extracted from the article]