Nothing special ever happens in Chokecherry, Colorado, And, when I say nothing, I mean nothing, but what’s usually a dormant little town in the middle of nowhere, will soon go viral internationally. They’ll be recognized on the news, social media, and so much more, but not for something wonderful or spectacular , not for something anyone will be proud of, no, not for anything good at all. Intrigued? Listen to my book review, and then find yourself a copy of "Linked" by Gordon Korman to learn mor...
Oct 06, 2022•5 min
I’m THRILLED to have talked with the author behind the thrilling, fantasy fiction, adventure quest, SECRET OF THE SHADOW BEASTS! I’m referring to the award-winning middle-grade author, Diane Magras!! Diane is the author of The New York Times Editors' Choice, The Mad Wolf's Daughter, as well as its companion novel, The Hunt for the Mad Wolf's Daughter, and now her newest novel, SECRET OF THE SHADOW BEASTS, WHICH CAME OUT IN in June. I read, more like devoured, and reviewed Diane’s Secret of the S...
Sep 30, 2022•31 min
It was a treat talking everything middle-grade books with author and literacy advocate Gae Polisner on E Train Talks! Gae is the author of numerous mg and ya books, including “The Pull of Gravity, “The Memory of Things,” and “In Sight of Stars,” to name a few, and her newest novel, co-authored with Nora Raleigh Baskin, the fun, entertaining and powerful read, CONSIDER THE OCTOPUS! Gae has been such a huge supporter of my reading journey, and it’s nice to find someone who cares so much about impo...
Sep 30, 2022•36 min
I had the honor of interviewing Fleur Bradley, the ever so clever and talented author of thrilling novels such as the action-packed "Double Vision" adventure series, the spooky mystery novel, "Midnight at the Barclay Hotel," and her newest eerie awesome mystery thriller, that I was lucky enough to read and review prior to its release, "Daybreak on Raven Island!" If you're a fan of mystery, ghosts, and everything spooky middle-grade, you'll love Fleur's amazing books!
Sep 30, 2022•21 min
I had the wonderful opportunity to interview author, illustrator, and literacy advocate, Jarrett Lerner! Jarrett has written and illustrated four graphic novel series! Jarret’s books feature fun and lovable characters, as well as meaningful themes like empathy, acceptance, and friendship! Aside from working on books, Jarrett spends a lot of his time advocating for literacy. He co-founded and co-organizes the #KidsNeedMentors and #KidsNeedBooks programs, and he’s the creator of Jarrett Lerner’s C...
Sep 30, 2022•33 min
Autumn keeps hoping things might finally change. She hopes she will find her courage, make new friends, and have a great school year, and when she sees a boy on a bike run over an iguana in the middle of the road on the first day of school begins (weird sentence, right?), Autumn meets a possible new friend. Life is already starting to feel brighter! What happens next? Will she make a new friend or more, or will her lack of courage bring her down? Read "Dear Student" by the amazing Elly Swartz to...
Sep 25, 2022•3 min
In this episode of E Train Talks, I'm reviewing the one and only middle-grade novel Treasure Tracks , a book I will treasure forever! See what I did there? Treasure Tracks is S.A. Rodriguez’s debut middle-grade adventure story about a young tween who goes on a treasure hunt for undersea riches to help his ailing Abuelo (Grandfather). Treasure Tracks is an incredibly fun read with so much meaning. I'm excited to share this wonderful read by the talented author, S.A. Rodriguez! Now, Let’s dive int...
Sep 10, 2022•3 min
I happened to be attending a bookish event at a local indie bookstore and Lisa Moore Ramee was there, as was her book, A GOOD KIND OF TROUBLE, and after hearing Lisa talk about her novel, I knew it was meant to be in my bookshelf! So, I took my new read home and ended up inhaling the story! Not only is did I find the storyline engaging & kept my interest, but I also learned so much along the way! But don’t take it from my long-winded description, take it from my book review!
Sep 09, 2022•4 min
From action to adventure, to friendship “Amari and the Great Game” by B.B. Alston has it all! I can guarantee you will absolutely love this story and you will NOT want to put this book down! Now my question for you is, what are you waiting for? Go find yourself a copy of B.B’s latest and greatest Amari novel, or if you haven’t already, read the first book in the Amari world, you WON’T REGRET IT! P.S. I'll be interviewing B.B. Alston this month, so be on the lookout for my chat with him!...
Sep 05, 2022•5 min
I recommend “Super Jake & The King of Chaos” by Naomi Milliner to middle graders and above. We all need a little magic in our lives, and Ethan, Jake & Freddie's story shares this meaningful message and more. If you’re looking for a heartwarming read, you’ve come to the right place, and if you’re looking for an entertaining read, this book is perfect for you! You’ll find Super Jake is full of all the best elements needed for a good, can’t put this book down read! A 10/10 Read for sure! “S...
Sep 02, 2022•5 min
"The Blameless" by E.S. Christison is a fast-paced & thrilling adventure that you will love! From magic to mayhem, this novel has everything a book needs to make an instant fantasy classic, and believe me, it should be a classic in my books! You need to get your hands on a copy, you won't regret it! 10/10!
Aug 27, 2022•4 min
No words can describe how much I enjoyed "The Verdigris Pawn" by author Alysa Wishingrad! "Where will you let the truth take you? Beau, The heir, has lived a life of luxury & criticism. His father is the king of the land, he has the best cook, a pantry that’s always full, and everything he could ever ask for at his disposal, he is the heir to his father’s throne, but he also lives a sheltered and protected life, his entire life has been spent in the safety of his father’s royal manor, hidden...
Aug 18, 2022•4 min
"Fish in a Tree" educated me & inspired me to promote empathy, to walk a mile in someone else's shoes! The protagonist, Ally faces so much adversity along her learning journey, but she didn't care what anyone else thought of her, as long as she had her best friends by her side. She's a character that I'll always remember when I feel lost or need help! 10/10 story, I highly recommend getting your hands on a copy of "Fish in a Tree" and all of Lynda's books!
Aug 12, 2022•4 min
I had the honor of interviewing, author extraordinaire, and a member of "Fedora Friends," Shawn Peters! Shawn is the author of the captivating, realistic fiction, story with a superhero twist, "The Unforgettable Logan Foster!" This book has everything that makes for a good story, from a brilliant neurodivergent protagonist, Logan, looking for his long-lost little brother, to navigating puberty, not to mention defeating a dangerous villain, plus a whole lot more! Shawn is truly an incredible auth...
Aug 06, 2022•31 min
It was an absolute honor to interview the one and only James Ponti! James is both a New York Times & International Bestselling author of NOT ONE, but three Middle-Grade book series, Wow! And, you might also be surprised to hear that James is also an Emmy–nominated television writer and producer who’s worked for television networks, such as Nickelodeon, Disney Channel, and PBS, to name a few! He’s also the recipient of the prestigious EDGAR ALLAN POE AWARD. We discuss all that and more in our...
Aug 06, 2022•46 min
Little did Nora know that being a knight is more than just defeating umbrae (evil shadow beasts), but it’s about finding your way, acceptance, friendship, and perseverance! Soon, it was time for Nora's first battle as a night. One wrong move and the deadly venom could seep into her body, but Nora's always up for a challenge! I absolutely LOVED "Secret of the Shadow Beasts" by the wonderful Diane Magras! This book is perfect for fans of "Percy Jackson," and all middle-grade readers! Listen to my ...
Jul 30, 2022•4 min
I'm so happy to be reviewing one of my favorite novels of all time, the New York Times Bestselling "City Spies, Forbidden City" by the incredible James Ponti! James’s “Framed” series sparked my love of realistic fiction & mystery books, so when I found out James had more novels in the same genre, the "City Spies" series, I was thrilled and proceeded to devour each of the books! Stay tuned for my interview with James Ponti, which is coming soon, but until then, this operation is hot, we are a...
Jul 28, 2022•7 min
In this podcast, I review the book, “Middle School―Safety Goggles Advised: Exploring the Weird Stuff from Gossip to Grades, Cliques to Crushes, and Popularity to Peer Pressure, by Jessica Spear, author of the award-winning book "Bff or NRF? A Girls Guide to Happy Friendships." I recommend this book to all kids entering or attending middle school and to parents of middle schoolers. It’s not just a novel, it’s a roadmap, a social survival guide for middle school! Be sure to grab a copy when it com...
Jul 25, 2022•3 min
Check out my interview with the wonderful Heather Clark! We discuss everything "Lemon Drop Falls," her debut MG novel about 12-year-old Morgan, and her journey coping with the heartbreaking loss of her mom, and trying to keep her promise to take care of her dad and siblings while dealing with all the ins and outs of being a tween. “Lemon Drop Falls” is one of my favorite middle-grade books ever! I’ve recommended it to book clubs, fellow writers, and my friends because it’s so good! Watch our boo...
Jul 24, 2022•39 min
I had the pleasure of talking with the wonderfully kind-hearted Lynne Kelly, author of the award-winning and touching novel, "Song For A Whale," along with Everything Books! Lynne is a sign language interpreter, a talented author, a mom of two dogs and one human, a lover of books, and even a special education teacher in the past. She’s certainly a jack of many interesting trades, and I'm sure you'll learn so much from our interview! To learn more visit lynnekellybooks.com! #books #reading...
Jul 24, 2022•19 min
I had the honor of interviewing Lisa Fipps, author of the amazing debut MG Novel-In-Verse "Starfish!" Lisa was the first author to ever read one of my book reviews, and it means the world to me! Without her, I may never have started my book podcast! Join Lisa and I as we discuss journalism, creativity, and Everything Books! #books #kidlit #author...
Jul 24, 2022•36 min
Shared on the pages of this heartfelt tale, is a story of hope, perseverance, empathy, and strength. Listen to my review of the middle-grade novel, "Glitter Gets Everywhere," and hear why you'll want to find a copy of your own to read. It's a story that will bring out all the feels and stay with you long after the pages are read and the cover is closed. A beautiful heart-wrenching story that will inspire you to cherish those close to you. I can’t wait to read more of Yvette Clark’s beautiful boo...
Jul 23, 2022•3 min
"Jordie and Joey Fell from the Sky" by Judi Lauren is a new favorite middle-grade book of mine! The novel is the fast-paced story of twins Jordie and Joey who have bounced from foster home to foster home, never finding a true place to call their own, and their entertaining journey to discovering the truth about their parents! Join the three protagonists on a fun-filled journey full of twists and turns!
Jul 11, 2022•3 min
"Consider the Octopus" is a much-needed reminder that the world needs to change for the better! Tons of pollution are dumped into the ocean daily, creating large patches where currents meet like the Great Pacific Garbage Patch. This needs to stop, and Sydney and JB, are up to the task! Listen to my book review of this silly, fast-paced, and meaningful read co-authored by Gae Polisner & Nora Raleigh Baskin to learn more! Visit @gaepol & @noraraleighb on Twitter for more info!...
Jul 09, 2022•4 min
In this interview, I talk with Dr. Molly Ness, a literacy advocacy champion, host of "End Book Deserts," and founder of the "Coalition for Literacy Equity!" Molly has lead the charge for literacy equity ever since her time with "Teaching America." She's witnessed firsthand the pain young avid readers face when they don't have access to books. Molly doesn't just want change, she wants to be the change! Join Dr. Molly Ness and I as we fight for literacy for all! Watch our book talk to find out mor...
Jul 08, 2022•28 min
Elsie isn't one to mope around hoping for something to change, like Queen Esther, Elsie wants to be the change! And, I want to be like Elsie! This is my book review of Joanne Levy's newest middle-grade novel, " The Book of Elsie ." It was a treat to read and review the ARC of Levy's meaningful Jewish-themed book. The story is filled with hope and determination! It touches on sensitive and powerful topics like antisemitism, discrimination, and LGBTQ storylines, that aren't always found, but are n...
Jul 02, 2022•5 min
Are you looking for a thrilling MG adventure with added queer themes and more? Well, I have the book for you! "Sir Callie and the Champions of Helston" is the perfect mix of meaning and excitement! Esme Symes-Smith did a brilliant job on their debut novel! Listen to our interview to find out more about Callie, the writing process, and EVERYTHING BOOKS! Find out more on etraintalks.com
Jun 27, 2022•30 min
Meet Sammie Vance! A 13-year-old kindness advocate and fellow podcaster who started the meaningful "Sammi's Buddy Bench Project, a positive movement to promote friendship, and kindness. Sammie's been featured on the "Today Show," "NBC Nightly News" & has received many notable accolades. Through it all, Sammie shares that "You don't just have to be an adult to make a difference, you can be a kid too!" Such a great talk, and we hope you'll listen! To learn more about Sammie's buddy bench proje...
Jun 27, 2022•25 min
I was lucky enough to receive a review copy of "Daybreak on Raven Island" by Fleur Bradley, and it did not disappoint! Fleur is truly a master at the art of captivating all forms of readers! Her novel has the perfect combination of powerful themes & powerful beasts! 10/10, I highly recommend this MG horror thriller! Be sure to get your hands on a copy when it comes out on the shelves on August 23rd, 2022! Want a copy for yourself? Use my affiliate link! All proceeds go to the literacy advoca...
Jun 22, 2022•5 min
"A much-needed reminder that certain fights are worth fighting." I had the honor of talking Everything Books with middle-grade author and activist Carrie Firestone about her two MG novels and her work as an environmental activist. Her work is so inspiring, and I learned so much from our chat! Listen to our interview to learn more about her writing, social justice advocacy, and more! Be sure to check out her website carriefirestonebooks.com for more information about her stories and upcoming even...
Jun 16, 2022•53 min
