Reading in The Middle

In this episode of Reading in the Middle, Annisha chats with debut indie author Chip Reeves about his middle-grade fantasy novel, The Authentic Imaginings of Oscar White.Oscar White is an ordinary-sized boy with a vivid imagination. When he falls into a forest pond while avoiding bullies, he emerges in a strange new world ruled by the foolish and ruthless King Jester. After a memorable and somewhat frustrating encounter with a seahorse, Oscar realizes that the world is in danger, and even if this adventure is a dream, it’s one worth having.Chip and Annisha discuss creating authentic middle-grade protagonists, combining real-life issues like bullying with portal fantasy adventures, and how imagination helps kids handle tough moments. They also cover indie publishing, developing a strong middle-grade voice, and what readers can anticipate from the upcoming sequel.If you’re interested in:• Middle-grade fantasy stories• Portal adventures for children• Books about bullying and bravery• Tales that honor imagination• Author interviews for educators and librariansThis episode is perfect for you.Ideal for teachers, librarians, parents, and middle-grade fans who enjoy heartfelt, imaginative stories. to Reading in the Middle for more middle-grade book conversations, author interviews, and literacy-centered discussions.

In this engaging episode of Reading in the Middle, host Annisha Jeffries speaks with middle-grade author KG Mach about her heartfelt historical novel, Present, Still Missing.Set just after World War II, the story follows twelve-year-old Irene Bracken as she waits for her father to return from war. Upon his return, she finds that he has changed in ways she didn't expect. Through Irene’s perspective, listeners explore the complex emotions of family, the unseen scars of war, and the strength required to love and heal.During the discussion, KG Mach discusses:- The inspiration behind Present, Still Missing- How she wrote about PTSD and trauma for middle-grade audiences- Her research on the post-World War II era- Her path to publication and recognition- Why stories like Irene’s are important for young readers todayThis episode is ideal for teachers, librarians, parents, and middle-grade readers looking for meaningful books that address history, empathy, and mental health.Whether you're expanding your classroom library, organizing a book club, or seeking impactful historical fiction for middle graders, you won’t want to miss this episode.KG Mach's Website: https://kmachwrites.com/Project Gutenberg. This is the link.#MiddleGradeBooks #HistoricalFictionForKids #WWIIBooksForChildren #MiddleGradePodcast #ChildrensBookAuthorInterview #KGMach #PresentStillMissing #BooksAboutPTSD #FamilyStories #MiddleGradeReaders #LiteracyPodcast #ReadingInTheMiddle

In Reading in the Middle, Annisha Jeffries interviews Sue Marasciulo about making reading accessible for children, especially those with dyslexia. Sue, a former special ed teacher and creator of decodable graphic novels, explains how her Pat & Pals series builds confidence and joy in reading through visual storytelling and structured literacy. The episode covers decodable texts, graphic novels, and rethinking access and engagement, offering insights for educators, librarians, caregivers, and anyone involved in literacy. Hosted by Annisha Jeffries, a librarian and children’s literature advocate.

Today on Reading in the Middle, I’m joined by USA Today–bestselling author Christina Wyman to celebrate the release of her latest middle-grade novel, *Breakout*. In this touching and funny story, we meet Ellis Starr — an eighth grader who loves studying active volcanoes but dislikes that her acne looks like one. As Ellis handles breakouts, changing friendships, complex family issues, and a big school project, she starts to question what it really means to feel confident in her own skin. During our chat, Christina discusses:  • Why she focused on acne in a middle-grade novel  • How humor and vulnerability work hand in hand on the page  • Crafting nuanced parent-child relationships  • The emotional reality of middle school  • How *Breakout* connects to her previous books, Jawbreaker and SlouchThis episode is perfect for teachers, librarians, caregivers, and anyone who remembers the feelings of being thirteen, erupting inside and out.✨ Breakout is available now wherever books are sold.🌐 Learn more about Christina and her works at: christinawymanbooks.comIf you love middle-grade stories that explore the full emotional lives of young readers, you’re in the right place.Follow, rate, and share Reading in the Middle to help more readers find stories that speak to them.

What happens when kids who feel overlooked finally discover their power?In this episode of Reading in the Middle, Annisha sits down with Donna Galanti to discuss her middle-grade novel, The Secret Winners Club, a story about belonging, visible differences, bullying, and the true cost of winning.At the heart of the novel is Sunny, a girl with alopecia who joins a group of kids determined to rise above being underestimated. But as competition heats up—from swim team rivalries to social power struggles—the question shifts from how to win to what winning is really worth.Together, Annisha and Donna explore:Subtle and competitive forms of bullyingThe emotional drive of “beating your bullies.”Complex family dynamics, including single-parent households and the return of an absent fatherWhy middle grade is the perfect space for moral gray areasThis episode is for librarians, educators, caregivers, and anyone who believes middle-grade books face the biggest questions with the most honesty.✨ Listen, subscribe, and keep reading in the middle.Visit Donna on her website: donnagalanti.com

Annisha Jeffries interviews author Tulip Moody about her fantasy novel The Spell That Named Her, featuring a princess navigating rejection, hidden magic, mysterious dreams, and powerful forces shaping her destiny. A compelling conversation about courage, identity, and belonging for middle-grade readers, educators, and fantasy lovers.In this episode, We Discuss:The inspiration behind The Spell That Named HerBuilding a fantasy world rooted in emotion and identityThe role of dreams, magic, and destiny in the storyCreating complex allies and adversariesWriting a heroine searching for belongingWhy fantasy resonates with middle-grade readersVisit Tulip Moody at her website, Tulip Moody, and follow her journey as a storyteller

In this episode of Reading in the Middle, host Annisha talks with Bridgette Hickman, author of The HBCU Crew, about introducing young readers to Historically Black Colleges and Universities. They explore HBCU history, culture, and pride, discuss the characters Monet, Keni, and CJ, and examine why representation and empowerment matter in middle-grade books. A must-listen for librarians, educators, and families.

New York Times bestselling author James Ponti joins Annisha Jeffries on Reading in the Middle to discuss his latest City Spies novel, EUROPA. They explore puzzles, teamwork, leadership, and close reading, as well as how characters like Kat, Sydney, and Paris solve high-stakes mysteries. James also shares writing insights and takes on a fun lightning round. Learn more at www.jamesponti.com.

In this episode of Reading in the Middle, host Annisha Jeffries interviews middle-grade author Taryn Souders about her latest book, Secrets of the Broken House, as well as mysteries, memorable characters, and her creative process. Taryn discusses how she developed Tucker Stephens and the quirky town of Everson, where goats can run for mayor, and how a suspicious death draws three friends into a web of secrets. Annisha and Taryn examine how humor, heart, and curiosity blend in her stories and why middle-grade mysteries remain popular among young readers. They also talk about Taryn’s other favorite books, her writing journey, and offer advice for kids aspiring to be authors. This episode is ideal for librarians, educators, parents, and middle-grade fans who enjoy smart, engaging stories.📚 Featured BooksSecrets of the Broken HouseHow to Almost Ruin Your SummerCoop Knows the ScoopThe Mystery of the Radcliffe Riddle🎙️ In This Episode, You’ll Hear:How Taryn builds kid detectives and small-town mysteriesThe inspiration behind Secrets of the Broken HouseWhy flawed, funny, and curious characters matterHow she balances suspense with emotional depthWriting advice for young storytellers🌐 Author WebsiteLearn more about Taryn and her books at:www.tarynsouders.com🌟 About the AuthorTaryn Souders writes middle-grade novels filled with humor, heart, and clever mysteries. Her books explore friendship, community, and what happens when kids decide to ask big questions—and follow the clues.📢 Connect & SubscribeIf you enjoyed this episode:Subscribe to Reading in the MiddleLeave a reviewShare with a fellow reader