Introduction I'm the last author in the world who knows how to incorporate humor into her stories. (Hey, my readers tell me that Josie, the goat in Half-Truths, provides comic relief and I didn't even know I was doing that!). Thankfully, there are writers who know how to write clever, funny stories that kids of… Continue reading Unlock Humor: Writing for Kids and Teens
Introduction Since I signed with Monarch Educational Services in November 2023, I've been blessed to be a part of a publishing house that is dedicated to clean-reads for children and young adults. Led by the indefatigable Jennifer Lowry, this independent North Carolina press is growing! As Jen says, "At Monarch, we believe books can be… Continue reading Monarch Educational Services: Promoting Clean Literature
INTRODUCTION Where Only Storms Grow by Alyssa Coleman is a suspenseful and seminal novel centered around the dust storms of the 1930s in Oklahoma. This historic story showcases the perspectives of two adolescent twins, Joanna and Howe Stanton. Throughout a six year journey, they overcame family turbulence, natural disasters, grief, and financial insecurity. REVIEW During the… Continue reading Alyssa Coleman’s Where Only Storms Grow: A Review
Exciting News Two weeks ago I won my first book award! I am thrilled that Half-Truths received the Bronze award in the Readers' Favorite "Coming of Age" category. You can read their review here. Now, I can put this lovely sticker on my book! Write2Ignite's Fall 2025 Master Class As some of you know, I… Continue reading Exciting News and An Awesome Conference
Just One Girl: A Fight for Equal Rights, authored by Trinka Hakes Noble and illustrated by Amanda Calatzis (Sleeping Bear Press), is a compelling and uplifting picture book that tackles the powerful themes of gender equality and the importance of standing up for one's rights. The book is set in a world where social structures are still heavily influenced… Continue reading JUST ONE GIRL: An Inspiring Picture Book Review by Lori Keating
Check out an older teen thriller from Monarch Books: Heartsmith by Stephanie Cotta. Be prepared to lose track of time with this mystery which is the first in a series. Review Aaren Lockett is a 16-year-old in search of a new start after life in an orphanage. He travels to the city of Rexanberg and plans to… Continue reading HEARTSMITH: An Upper MG/YA Book Review by Kate Lundeen
REVIEW JUNIA, written by New York Times bestselling author Kim Michele Richardson, and illustrated by David C. Gardner, (Sleeping Bear Press) follows the story of Junia, a mule with the important task of carrying the Pack Horse librarian, Book Woman, through rugged terrains in Kentucky to deliver books to remote communities. Despite challenging conditions, Junia remains steadfast,… Continue reading JUNIA: A Heart-Warming Picture Book Review by Lori Keating
Audience: 6th – 9th graders In Three Words: poetic, empathetic, clear-eyed One Sentence Synopsis: Cayenne’s family begins to fracture after they abandon their nomadic lifestyle and settle in a small town. Final Verdict: 4.5/5 stars REVIEW Unsinkable Cayenne is a new take on a classic coming-of-age story perfect for middle schoolers who are ready to take on a… Continue reading UNSINKABLE CAYENNE: An Outstanding MG Book Review by Elliott Kurta
I'm happy to introduce a new young book reviewer to you. Lucie B. read Riley Cross's new chapter book, THE SWAMP OF DOOM: The Cursed Champions Club Book One. (Monarch: 2024) and here's what she thought. REVIEW This story presents a girl named Blip (short for Bad Luck Princess) who lives in a small, mythical… Continue reading The Swamp of Doom: A Review by Lucie B., a New Guest Blogger
REVIEW The River That Wolves Moved written by Mary Kay Carson and illustrated by David Hohn, (Sleeping Bear Press) is a beautiful story that intertwines nature and adventure, bringing to life an incredible journey of wolves and the changing landscape they traverse. Carson's fun and educational storytelling, paired with Hohn's lovely illustrations, transports readers into a world where… Continue reading The River That Wolves Moved: An Outstanding STEM Picture Book Reviewed by Lori Keating. Plus a Giveaway!