Paige Not Found by Jen Wilde

What worked:

A central conflict in the story involves the concept of autism. Some people compare autism to a disease and want to cure it. Others, including Paige, understand it’s part of who they are and they learn to deal with it. It really bothers Paige when her father says he wants her to be normal. She thinks of people wanting to “cure” autism and compares it to dinosaurs going extinct. Some autistic people don’t like to touch others and bright lights and loud noises can be overwhelming. The story includes descriptions of Paige’s stimming where her mind is trying to calm her over-stimulation with involuntary movements.

The main conflict arises when Paige discovers the Dot that’s been implanted behind her ear. She’s worried and angered that people can monitor her life and control how she behaves. Nucleus is behind her surgery and Paige is frightened to learn the company is selling her information to a social media giant known for abusing customer data. The conflict boils down to big business versus individuals and it’s unlikely an autistic twelve-year-old can do anything about it. However, Paige discovers she can do the impossible when motivated as she recruits other test subjects to join her team.

The other main plot concerns Paige’s relationship with her best friend Mara. Mara is very supportive and helps Paige deal with stressful situations. Paige has problems knowing how to behave socially and she’s not sure how to handle being part of a new group of friends. She’s always had Mara to herself so sharing her with other people is hard and confusing. If Mara has new interests with new people, does that mean she’s no longer Paige’s friend? Friendships in middle grades can be fickle so readers should make connections with Paige’s issues. They’re not unique to autism.

What didn’t work as well:

The author includes a subplot where Paige struggles with her gender identity but it probably wasn’t necessary. The conflict with Nucleus, Paige’s struggles with autism, and the complications of friendship were enough to keep readers’ attention. There’s nothing wrong with including the question of gender identity but maybe it should have been a bigger part of the story. It almost gets lost among the other problems until the very end of the book.

The final verdict:

Young people battling with large corporations always result in a dramatic story. Paige’s autism provides a novel complication but her determination to maintain her identity makes her an admirable heroine. Overall, the author creates a fresh conflict with an underdog protagonist and I recommend you give this book a shot.

Can't Live Without You (Dory FantasMaGory #6)

What worked:

Dory has a vivid imagination which leads to unusual situations. The opening chapter finds her wanting to be a teenager named Rainbow but the purse she brings to school creates an issue. She has several imaginary characters including her friends Mr. Nuggy and Mary while Mrs. Gobble Gracker is a strange-looking woman with fangs. Mary uses a banana split to call Mr. Nuggy who’s able to create potions to help Dory, including a love potion. Dory is upset when she discovers Mozart is dead (he died a couple hundred years ago) and she’s afraid her mother may fall off a ship and get bitten by a shark. Dory’s creative mind produces many wacky scenes that will keep young readers guessing.

The narrative is accompanied by black and white drawings that help to visualize the events. These pictures are especially helpful when Dory interacts with her imaginary characters. Mr. Nuggles is a small man with a pointed hat, Mary has little horns, and Mrs. Gobble Gracker wears unusual outfits. The illustrations add detail to the descriptions such as when Dory is lost at the hardware store or taking ballet lessons. Speech bubbles provide amusing dialogue in the pictures like when a horrible odor follows Dory around school. Almost every page in the book has an illustration which helps the pace of the story for young readers and helps them visualize what’s happening.

Despite Dory’s imagination, the book deals with several real-life issues. Dory suffers from separation anxiety and sometimes becomes clingy around her mom. Dory has older siblings and they can be supportive or annoying depending on the situation. She’s in a dance class that she’s not crazy about and she gets upset when her dad takes her instead of her mom. Dory’s mom makes an announcement later in the book that will require some adjustments to the family’s home life.

What didn’t work as well:

There are scenes where Dory’s brother and sister talk to Mrs. Gobble Gracker which doesn’t make sense if the character is in Dory’s mind. Dory’s siblings must be pretending but it might confuse young readers. Dory’s random thoughts often take the story in unpredictable directions which may bother some readers. The plot doesn’t move in a straight line.

The final verdict:

This book can be read independently from the rest of the series and is most appropriate for an elementary audience. Readers must adapt to how Dory’s arbitrary thoughts control the plot but the whole story is based on realistic issues. Overall, this book should appeal to younger readers and I recommend they give it a shot.

Wicked Marigold by Caroline Carlson

What worked:

Readers should feel empathy for Marigold since she grows up living in the shadow of her older sister. All she hears is how wonderful Rosalind was before being kidnapped. Marigold is a normal, curious, adventurous young girl but she can’t stand being ignored once her sister returns. She makes one too many mistakes, runs away, and starts calling herself wicked. The blob mentioned in the synopsis refers to Wizard Torvell after Marigold’s first attempt to cast a spell goes haywire. She really wants to help the wizard but is clearly in over her head. Torvell’s brother and sister, the Miseries, are constant annoyances and threats and Marigold is forced to find ways to appease them. How is Marigold supposed to support Torvell’s evil ways when her goodness keeps getting in the way?

The most amusing part of the book involves Marigold’s efforts to prove she’s wicked. She’s given seven days to convince an evil sorcerer’s imp Pettifog of her wickedness and that’s when the antics begin. Turning Torvell into a blob is funny by itself but trying to interact with him offers more humorous situations. Then, Marigold tries to reverse the spell but her efforts don’t turn out as expected. Pettifog constantly complains about her non-wickedness and laments her lame efforts to perform magic. The story shares numerous, funny mental images as Marigold stumbles along trying to be evil. Pettifog loves to knit tea napkins but he fears being returned to the world of demons. The contrast between being a demon and his love for Rosalind adds additional levity to his character.

The backbone of the plot pits good versus evil as the wizards and sorcerers fear peace will break out among the kingdoms. This news will be terrible for them since there will no longer be a demand for their wicked spells. Rosalind is the epitome of kindness with everyone loving and admiring her and she’s at the center of peace efforts that will unite the different kingdoms. On the other hand, Marigold is more inquisitive and a risk-taker so her behavior is not as well-received. She assumes that since she’s not as perfectly nice as her sister she must be wicked. She struggles with this internal conflict throughout the entire story.

What didn’t work as well:

Some readers may not appreciate the zaniness as the humor borders on slapstick. The wizards’ spells to maintain chaos are wacky and Torvell’s behavior as a blob is very strange. However, the resulting story is comical and entertaining for those readers with tolerant funny bones.

The final verdict:

The reverse expectations of Marigold trying to be wicked create a hilarious, enjoyable story. Her kind heart will endear her to young readers even as she half-heartedly tries to be evil. I recommend you give this book a shot.

Cameron and the Shadow-wraiths: A Battle of Anxiety vs. Trust by Mark Cheverton

What worked:

Cameron is a classic, underdog character as he’s small in stature and has lived with anxiety and bullying since he was about six years old. His lack of confidence constantly negates any positives that might arise. He’s welcomed back to summer camp by well-wishers who call him a hero and savior of the camp. Cameron doesn’t feel like the comments are deserved so the stress, his Beast, builds in his mind. An interesting twist arises when Jamis and Jessie appear at camp. Jamis tormented Cameron when they were young and he resumes his constant negativity toward Cameron. This helps Cameron’s brain predict the worst outcomes and he fears he’ll let everyone down. He might be a formidable warrior if he only had the same confidence in himself that his friends have for him.

The early chapters share plenty of information about what’s already happened in the previous book. Some chapters share reports from a secret organization, the Order of the Stones, that summarize the threats brewing from an alternate universe. Last summer, Cameron rallied the campers to stop Malphas from leading an invading army of demons from Agartha. Readers will also await the return of a helpful imp from Agartha since everyone on Cameron’s team comments about how much they miss him. However, Cameron’s success last summer only puts more pressure on him to do it again. High expectations from his friends result in his mind predicting a precipitous fall.

A big difference from the first book occurs when Cameron and his four friends begin to learn elemental magic. Wielding the magic requires the Caster to remain calm and in control so Cameron obviously struggles. His friends make rapid progress to master their elements and they constantly tell Cameron they believe he can do it too. However, his negative thoughts block his ability to relax and connect with Earth-magic. His power is the key to stopping Malphas and the Agarthans but readers will wonder if Cameron will ever master it. Readers will experience his roller coaster of emotions as Cameron goes through periods of feeling hope but sees them quickly squelched by self-doubt.

What didn’t work as well:

The reminders of Cameron’s anxiety get repetitious as the words and descriptions sound very similar. The recurrent descriptions and coping mechanisms may have readers feeling déjà vu. Also, Cameron wears Malphas’s shrunken fist on a necklace but it’s annoying that he ignores the negative impact it’s having on him.

The final verdict:

This elemental adventure should be well-received by middle-grade readers and Cameron’s severe anxiety is a significant complication. The description of his internal conflict gets redundant but it also helps accentuate the problem. Overall, Cameron is an engaging character and I recommend you give this book a shot.

The Beast of Skull Rock (Monsterious 4) by Matt McMann

What worked:

Simon and Jade offer contrasting characters. Simon loves the mysterious and scary while Jade is more practical with a love for performing magic. Simon has researched all kinds of creatures from around the world and he comes across a book with legends from Skull Rock. An article about a werehyena catches his eye since its description sounds like something from recent break-ins. Jade is skeptical but she becomes suspicious too when their grandfather doesn’t want to talk about strange sounds they’ve been hearing at night. With Simon taking the lead, they decide it’s up to them to investigate.

The opening chapter describes a beast prowling the town so there’s never any question about what kind of monster is threatening Skull Rock. Newspaper descriptions and security pictures match the morgund statue in the grandfather’s museum so it seems inevitable that this stuffed artifact is causing the disturbances. The real question is how it’s happening. The twins wish their grandmother was around since she has an interest in magic and might be able to help. The monster continues to strike every night with the attacks becoming more harmful to citizens.

Some chapters are written from the creature’s point of view which lets readers know the beast is intelligent. It maneuvers along rooftops to stalk its prey and shows patience before pouncing. It even knows to remain still when it’s being watched in the museum. These chapters help connect the monster with readers and act as reminders of the imminent danger. Potential victims are shown going about their daily activities, unaware a vicious predator is moving in for an attack. These descriptions build suspense into the plot as readers anticipate when the monster will strike next.

What didn’t work as well:

The plot lacks the suspense readers might expect that typically surrounds a vicious monster. The early pages reveal its presence but don’t include any reports of injury or death. One chapter even talks about the creature breaking into a store and eating a display of candy. More dramatic confrontations arise later but monster lovers may want more.

The final verdict:

This book is a nice introduction to the monster genre since events never get too intense. The plot is easy to follow and readers may be surprised by a revelation during the climax. Overall, this is a fun, eerie adventure and I recommend you give it a shot.

Mid Air by Alicia D. Williams

What worked:

First off, I’m not typically a lover of novels written in verse but the narrator’s voice uses slang and vocabulary making the words relatable and appealing for readers. The lines often sound like free verse with the words expressing the emotions and thoughts of the characters. A critical moment uses the words, “I scream… CARRR-CARRR!... Too… late.” Some of the lines read like sentences so young readers shouldn’t be intimidated or challenged to read them. Italicized phrases let readers know when characters are speaking to each other. The poetic narrative controls the pacing of the words to fully express the deep feelings and thoughts of the tragic accident and the emotional recovery.

Isaiah is the main character and his love of music is common among middle-graders, although his interest in classic rock groups is not. He has a secret collection of classic concert t-shirts with Aerosmith being his latest addition. Kids at this age sometimes have interests that might become embarrassing so Isaiah dresses up in his shirts and listens to the oldies rock songs in the safety of his closet. His friends sometimes comment that he’s a black boy trying to be white so he can’t let any of them know his secrets. Also, his dad thinks Isaiah needs to be toughened up so he can’t let his father know that he wonders what it would be like to polish his toes purple. Isaiah is afraid to let anyone know his inner self and this conflict continues until the end.

Dealing with grief is the main theme of the book. The characters struggle with different emotions associated with loss including sadness, denial, anger, and guilt. Isaiah is especially hurt that his other friend Drew won’t talk to him about the death of Darius. Isaiah won’t open up to anyone else either and the anger, grief, and guilt are eating him up inside. Handling death is a process and his parents give him the time and space to talk when he’s ready. Unfortunately, Isaiah’s emotions cause him to make some poor choices that cause his mother to make a life-changing decision.

What didn’t work as well:

The author may give Isaish too much to worry about as there are additional, serious subplots added to the story. The grief, doubt, self-expression issues, father’s absence, a racial incident, and Drew’s inner worries combine to complicate Isaiah’s life and give readers a myriad of topics to think about. Perhaps more than needed.

The final verdict:

Using verse to share the emotional story creatively shares the turmoil inside Isaiah’s mind. The language and slang make it relatable to young readers. Overall, it’s a sensitive story of grief and growth and I recommend you give it a shot.

Skylight (Mehk Light Series Book 1) by Peachree Jones

What worked:

The plot will be familiar as a baby is sent to another world to protect her from an evil sorceress. Sofia is unaware her “parents” have been protecting her on Earth since she’s the princess of a kingdom she’s never known. Upon her return to the skies, Sofia manifests previously unknown powers that connect her with nature although she struggles to control it. The author adds the possibility that a spy may be lurking in the palace so readers will begin suspecting every character they meet. The palace is supposed to be impenetrable so how did the sorceress know Sofia was coming? The author includes something unusual about Sofia’s best friend Cara which hints that her character may have a secret. It’s not uncommon in middle-grade books where seemingly innocent characters turn out to have devious intentions.

Sofia’s personality and relationships will endear her to young readers. She has an open mind about her new life in Skylight but she misses the “parents” she grew up with on Earth. The kingdom is at war with the sorceress and her Night Army so Sofia is being trained to fight. However, she doesn’t want to hurt others and she doesn’t do well on her combat tests. Sofia and Cara have grown up almost as sisters on Earth and they remain inseparable in the sky kingdom. Sofia may be the taller, larger character but Cara quickly masters new fighting skills and will defend the princess whenever needed. Cara’s extremely competitive and won’t back down from any challenge.

The author includes some unexpected twists after Sofia is captured by the sorceress. People inside the palace think she’s behaving strangely and wonder what’s caused the changes. Sofia begins to wonder who she can trust and doesn’t understand what’s made Muet want to attack the royal family and the kingdom. Why was she exiled? Being new to the conflict means Sofia doesn’t have any preconceived ideas regarding who’s right or wrong. She considers Muet’s grievances without judging and is willing to consider the possibility that Muet may have some valid reasons for being angry. Sofia doesn’t make a formal decision about Muet but she believes there must be a way to end this war. Readers shouldn’t assume the “good guys” are always right as the story provides some food for thought.

What didn’t work as well:

The author includes some Skylight vocabulary and speech that isn’t necessary as the plot moves along. It helps to develop the setting and most of the words and phrases can be figured out through context. Most of the narrative is in English so the Mehk vocabulary isn’t necessary as the story goes on. Also, some of Sofia’s thoughts about who to trust are irrational based on previous descriptions and experiences of the characters.

The final verdict:

The adventure in the sky is entertaining with the interactions between Sofia and Muet being the most intriguing part of the story. Cara’s competitive nature contributes humor to the narrative and adds action scenes to spice things up. Overall, young readers should enjoy the book and I recommend you give it a shot.

The Rise of the Legends by Jake Zortman

What worked:

The book’s premise is innovative as a sentient drone from the future with multiple personalities shows up to make sure the main characters stay on the timeline where they’ll become Legends. The drone is given the name Gimbel and it continuously hovers nearby to observe and step in if needed. Need may not be the correct word as Gimbel doesn’t always help when the characters are in trouble. George becomes trapped in a life-threatening situation but the drone won’t do anything to aid his rescue. The club’s teacher-advisor is perplexed by an attitude that won’t save the life of an endangered child. What will Gimbel do when one of the Legends is caught in the middle of a burning forest? It’s amusing for readers to witness the three personalities discussing/arguing whether to save a kid’s life.

The book features STEM education as an afterschool drone club called the Drone Legends brings the main characters together. The kids are given projects by the advisor which involve modifying drones to perform different tasks. There is some technical language but it won’t be overwhelming for readers. The students in the club are very accepting of others as Mikaela and Collin are readily welcomed by Kendall and George (or Jorge). These characters are great role models for middle-grade readers as this age group isn’t always known for being understanding or thinking about others. Kendall wears high-tech glasses that allow her to see things in more detail and to access information like a portable Google search. The cryptic clues found by the students are sometimes based on math and science while there are also connections to ancient mythology.

A central conflict finds a former club member named Malcolm determined to get revenge against the teacher. Readers will be surprised at how far this kid will go as he’s unconcerned about the possibility of hurting or killing other people. It’s not totally surprising when readers meet his father. Tommy is one of Malcolm’s minions and he spends much of his time bullying a Legend named Collin. Tommy also has a difficult father but the author allows this character to grow and change. Mikaela earns some respect from him when she protects Collin by unleashing karate moves on Tommy. This moment is a catalyst in Tommy’s transformation when Mikaela later offers compassion and understanding, causing him to question his past choices. It’s nice to see an antagonist develop and learn in a story instead of remaining a bad guy no matter what.

What didn’t work as well:

A drone gets hijacked and almost results in Kendall being killed and then George’s drone is unexpectedly connected to Blue Tooth. For kids who are so intelligent, they’re quite naïve when it comes to considering something suspicious might be going on. Also, Collin can receive visions from animals but his supernatural ability is out of place in a story based on science and technology. It’s not necessary.

The final verdict:

The epilogue reveals Gimbel’s creation and what its mission will be. Time travel is always a complex topic as characters don’t want to change events that cause a ripple effect into the future and Gimbel’s mission will be featured in the series. Overall, it’s an entertaining adventure that you should check out.

The Invisible Spy (The Forgotten Five 2) by Lisa McMann

What worked:

The children are the main characters and they possess various super abilities. One boy’s skin shimmers and makes him appear invisible to others and a girl can communicate with animals. Another girl moves about in a wheelchair due to cerebral palsy but she’s able to transport herself short distances away. She can also use crutches to walk short distances and has secret compartments within them to hold gadgets and tools she might need. Unlike some other middle-grade novels, the kids’ powers don’t give them any advantages when it comes to fighting so learning stealth and surveillance are more useful skills.

The kids’ lives are complicated because their parents are master criminals with powers of their own. The parents were a gang of thieves that carried out major heists although the first book reveals there was dissension within their ranks. The kids aren’t sure what to think of having parental criminals and they feel some guilt for the damage their parents have done. A couple of the kids discover their parents are still alive but they’re not sure if they should feel joy, anger, or disgust. One father reappears with his powerful x-ray vision so the kids know they must now be extra careful and vigilant as they move about the city. The reconnection with parents answers some ongoing questions but then creates more complications for the future.

The plot is presented like an adventure mystery as the kids try to figure out what the president is up to. In the previous book, he convinced everyone that supers are bad and that they should be arrested or exiled from the country. However, the president is secretly using supers, including some parents, to commit crimes in other countries. The kids are surprised when the president announces a more welcoming attitude toward supers so they’re not sure what it all means. The kids go into hiding but realize they must make dangerous choices to investigate the president’s plans. Infiltrating the enemy’s hideout builds tension into the plot and unexpected incidents amp the anxiety level even higher.

What didn’t work as well:

There are many different characters but none of them stand out as the main characters. Main characters can center readers’ attention in the plot and give a focus to the story as new events pop up. The lack of a small group of main characters makes it more difficult to connect with them thus eliminating emotional attachments to the story. Some moments will evoke feelings but it’s more effective to develop bonds with main characters.

The final verdict:

Readers should expect to continue reading future books as the story leaves unanswered questions and unresolved problems. The kids’ super abilities give them advantages over other humans but they’re still presented as underdogs in the series. I suggest you read the first book before this one as it doesn’t provide clear information about prior happenings. Overall, this book continues the “super” story and I recommend you give it a shot.