L.B. Anne's Blog, page 3
January 22, 2023
Favorite Middle Grade Books of 2022
It's that time again. Every year I share my favorite middle grade reads of the previous year. How better to share than with a giveaway? 
That's right! One lucky winner will receive a copy of the six paperbacks in the image above and a copy of my best-sellers. U.S. residents only. However, find the reel or image of this post on my Instagram account and follow the instructions for an additional international winner. Check out the books:
"Fans of R.J. Palacio’s Wonder will appreciate this feel-good story of friendship and unconventional smarts.” —Kirkus ReviewsAlly has been smart enough to fool a lot of smart people. Every time she lands in a new school, she is able to hide her inability to read by creating clever yet disruptive distractions. She is afraid to ask for help; after all, how can you cure dumb? However, her newest teacher Mr. Daniels sees the bright, creative kid underneath the troublemaker. With his help, Ally learns not to be so hard on herself and that dyslexia is nothing to be ashamed of. As her confidence grows, Ally feels free to be herself and the world starts opening up with possibilities. She discovers that there’s a lot more to her—and to everyone—than a label, and that great minds don’t always think alike.The author of the beloved One for the Murphys gives readers an emotionally-charged, uplifting novel that will speak to anyone who’s ever thought there was something wrong with them because they didn’t fit in. This paperback edition includes The Sketchbook of Impossible Things and discussion questions.A New York Times Bestseller! * “Unforgettable and uplifting.”—School Library Connection, starred review* “Offering hope to those who struggle academically and demonstrating that a disability does not equal stupidity, this is as unique as its heroine.”—Booklist, starred review* “Mullaly Hunt again paints a nuanced portrayal of a sensitive, smart girl struggling with circumstances beyond her control.” —School Library Journal, starred review14.
From Kwame Mbalia and Prince Joel David Makonnen comes an Afrofuturist adventure about a mythical Ethiopian empire. Sci-fi and fantasy combine in this epic journey to the stars.Yared Heywat lives an isolated life in Addis Prime -- a hardscrabble city with rundown tech, lots of rules, and not much to do. His worrywart Uncle Moti and bionic lioness Besa are his only family... and his only friends.Often in trouble for his thrill-seeking antics and smart mouth, those same qualities make Yared a star player of the underground augmented reality game, The Hunt for Kaleb's Obelisk. But when a change in the game rules prompts Yared to log in with his real name, it triggers an attack that rocks the city. In the chaos, Uncle Moti disappears.Suddenly, all the stories Yared's uncle told him as a young boy are coming to life, of kingdoms in the sky and city-razing monsters. And somehow Yared is at the center of them.Together with Besa and the Ibis -- a game rival turned reluctant ally -- Yared must search for his uncle... and answers to his place in a forgotten, galaxy-spanning war.
The New York Times best-selling seriesA young girl learns she’s half mermaid and plunges into a scheme to reunite with her father in this entrancing, satisfying tale that beckons readers far below the waves.For as long as she can remember, twelve-year-old Emily Windsnap has lived on a boat. And, oddly enough, for just as long, her mother has seemed anxious to keep Emily away from the water. But when Mom finally agrees to let her take swimming lessons, Emily makes a startling discovery — about her own identity, the mysterious father she’s never met, and the thrilling possibilities and perils shimmering deep below the water’s surface. With a sure sense of suspense and richly imaginative details, first-time author Liz Kessler lures us into a glorious undersea world where mermaids study shipwrecks at school and Neptune rules with an iron trident — an enchanting fantasy about family secrets, loyal friendship, and the convention-defying power of love.
Two heavy-hitters in children's literature deliver a critically acclaimed, bestselling biographical novel of cultural icon Muhammad Ali. "This utterly delightful story about Ali's childhood is a smash hit."—School Library Journal (starred review)Before he was a household name, Cassius Clay was a kid with struggles like any other. Kwame Alexander and James Patterson join forces to vividly depict his life up to age seventeen in both prose and verse, including his childhood friends, struggles in school, the racism he faced, and his discovery of boxing. Readers will learn about Cassius' family and neighbors in Louisville, Kentucky, and how, after a thief stole his bike, Cassius began training as an amateur boxer at age twelve. Before long, he won his first Golden Gloves bout and began his transformation into the unrivaled Muhammad Ali.Fully authorized by and written in cooperation with the Muhammad Ali estate, and vividly brought to life by Dawud Anyabwile's dynamic artwork, Becoming Muhammad Ali captures the budding charisma and youthful personality of one of the greatest sports heroes of all time.Longlisted for the 2022-2023 Indiana Young Hoosier Book Award, and nominated for the 2021-2022 Black Eyed Susan Book Award!
Perfect for readers of Song for a Whale and Counting by 7s, a neurodivergent girl campaigns for a memorial when she learns that her small Scottish town used to burn witches simply because they were different."A must-read for students and adults alike." -School Library Journal, Starred ReviewEver since Ms. Murphy told us about the witch trials that happened centuries ago right here in Juniper, I can’t stop thinking about them. Those people weren’t magic. They were like me. Different like me.I’m autistic. I see things that others do not. I hear sounds that they can ignore. And sometimes I feel things all at once. I think about the witches, with no one to speak for them. Not everyone in our small town understands. But if I keep trying, maybe someone will. I won’t let the witches be forgotten. Because there is more to their story. Just like there is more to mine.Award-winning and neurodivergent author Elle McNicoll delivers an insightful and stirring debut about the European witch trials and a girl who refuses to relent in the fight for what she knows is right.
When being invisible is all they’ve ever known, a genius kid from Brooklyn changes their world.“This is an inspiring story of a boy who is tired of being overlooked. There are so many people who wish they were seen and heard, aren’t there?” ARC Reviewer“This is a great book to read with your children. It teaches kids that they are unique and should not be afraid to be who they are.” ARC ReviewerEveryone has a secret. Mine is a little different because it involves academics. My teachers think I’m uninterested in school. That’s only half true. I admit, school is BORING! I doodle through my lessons because I know everything they’re teaching.But the truth is—and it’s also my secret—I’m a bonafide genius.Don’t tell my mom because she doesn’t know yet. The problem is, even twelve-year-old geniuses have bullies to deal with. My friends and I are not just bullied but classified as “nerd zone” and ignored.On a positive note, I’m going to change all that with a message that will put us in front of the world. So listen up. There’s a lot more to us than the color of our skin, disabilities, looks, or anything else you try to judge us on.But will the message get to the one person who needs to hear it most?What a selection, right? The giveaway has already begun. You have until February 27th to enter. The winner will be announced on March 1st. Again, International residents, find the giveaway image on my ,Instagram or ,Facebook feed to find out how you may be able to win books also. Good luck, everyone!LB
January 13, 2023
Why Children Should Read Diverse Books
I write diverse books, and unfortunately, it's something a few people disagree with. 
It's true. I receive nasty emails and DMs, but what's the point? I'm not going to stop.Why is there still a disagreement concerning diversity in children's literature in this day and age? Books are a mirror of our world, so it's essential that the world is depicted in the stories we read.
All children should be given the opportunity to recognize themselves in the books they read. This was virtually unheard of when I was younger, so I'm incredibly pleased with how far we've come.
There are many reasons why children should read diverse books. Here are a few:1. Diverse books expose children to different cultures, experiences, and perspectives, helping them understand and appreciate the world around them.2. Reading about characters from different backgrounds can help children develop empathy and understanding for people who are different from themselves.3. Diverse books often explore complex social issues, which can help children develop critical thinking skills and learn to think for themselves.4. Diverse books can help children see themselves and their own experiences reflected in literature, which can be empowering and affirming.5. Preparing for the real world: Children will interact with people from different backgrounds in the real world, and reading diverse books can help them navigate these interactions more effectively.6. Reading diverse books can help children to question their own biases and assumptions, and develop an open mind toward others.Overall, reading diverse books can help children to become more curious, empathetic, and open-minded individuals, who are better equipped to navigate the complexities of the world around them.Check these out:
It's true. I receive nasty emails and DMs, but what's the point? I'm not going to stop.Why is there still a disagreement concerning diversity in children's literature in this day and age? Books are a mirror of our world, so it's essential that the world is depicted in the stories we read.All children should be given the opportunity to recognize themselves in the books they read. This was virtually unheard of when I was younger, so I'm incredibly pleased with how far we've come.There are many reasons why children should read diverse books. Here are a few:1. Diverse books expose children to different cultures, experiences, and perspectives, helping them understand and appreciate the world around them.2. Reading about characters from different backgrounds can help children develop empathy and understanding for people who are different from themselves.3. Diverse books often explore complex social issues, which can help children develop critical thinking skills and learn to think for themselves.4. Diverse books can help children see themselves and their own experiences reflected in literature, which can be empowering and affirming.5. Preparing for the real world: Children will interact with people from different backgrounds in the real world, and reading diverse books can help them navigate these interactions more effectively.6. Reading diverse books can help children to question their own biases and assumptions, and develop an open mind toward others.Overall, reading diverse books can help children to become more curious, empathetic, and open-minded individuals, who are better equipped to navigate the complexities of the world around them.Check these out:When being invisible is all they've ever known, a genius kid from Brooklyn changes their world.
Start reading It's Me, Jaxon! Can
You See Me? now!
"Riveting historical fiction that will enrich and delight the audience. Anne, a prolific author and Florida resident who is of African and Indigenous descent, presents a series opener that is both well researched and well written. The author engages the audience with a dual perspective narration that's exciting, suspenseful, and socially conscious, though not preachy." ― Kirkus Review
#diversebooks #diversemiddlegradebooks #weneeddiversebooks
November 22, 2022
The Story Behind Never Really Gone
It's a story of courage, faith, and love.
I think every author wishes a story could come to them as easily as this. Now, almost six months later, seeing the proof copy in my hands, I can’t believe I dreamed the whole thing.How it happened:I awoke with Katy Perry’s song in my head: When I’m gone, I’m never really gone You think you’re moving on But it won’t be for long, you’ll see When I’m gone, I’m never really gone…I didn’t even know who sang the song. I had to look it up. And then, I said, “Hmmm... Never Really Gone. That’s the title!”I grabbed the notebook and pen from my nightstand (yes; I keep them there for times like this) and began writing. A whole dream, from beginning to end, played like a movie in my mind. That was about 4:30 AM. I didn’t stop until about 6:30 pm. There may have been a bathroom break somewhere in there, but I don’t remember.
When I finished, I’d filled every page of the notebook. The characters felt so familiar to me, like I’d known them. Of course, I hadn’t. It was the dream, still so fresh, and the few lyrics of that song were still playing in my head.I contacted my cover illustrator that evening, gave her the plot, and described the characters. I often like to have the cover on hand while writing the story. Imagine my surprise to find that my illustrator, booked months to a year out, had an opening for me. In about a day, she asked, “How’s this?” I can’t lie. I shed a tear. The cover was exactly what I envisioned.
The next step was typing up everything I’d written and adding the meat of the story—the why’s, hows, and oh my gosh’s. No, that part didn't happen in a day. It took a couple of months.The hardest part of it all was making this a young adult novel, because I don't write many young adult books. But this couldn’t be told as a middle grade story, plus it has a tinge of romance (something I said I would never write). So what does an author do when venturing out into something new? Research. I looked for similar stories. The In Between which I think is now a movie and You’ve Reached Sam were a couple of books that stood out. Even the movie Ghost fit the theme. They all showed there is a market for this type of story.I am a Christian fiction author and do think this is a “Christian” story, but not the norm. It is inspiring. It has its share of sorrow, but it also has its share of joy and hope.I hope you enjoy Never Really Gone. I’m blessed to have been able to write it.I’m already dreaming of the next book... :)But in the meantime, here’s a snippet of Never Really Gone:Droplets of rain landed on the casket. One at a time as if someone were dropping them from a single eye dropper. And then, many eye droppers. A torrential downpour.Black umbrellas popped open here and there, but most didn’t seem to mind the weather. It was the least of my worries. Someone sang a hymn, and then a couple of people approached the podium to say a few words. When they finished, the pastor asked for a moment of silence, during which Micah’s mother burst into screams. Several people unsuccessfully tried to console her as the casket was lowered into the ground.I knew exactly how she felt—how each and every person who’d lost someone felt. I knew, because I felt the same way. The same pain. I just had a different way of showing it. There was a dark room inside me that I disappeared into and shut the door. It helped me deal with the numbness and kept me from having to respond to the pain or even eat.In the end, I was the last person standing at the grave. Soaked and shivering, still looking down at Micah’s casket, waiting. But waiting for what?A lone figure stood several feet away. The only person not dressed in black, he wore a gray hoodie and torn jeans. He waved and walked away.As I watched the stranger leave, a hand touched my shoulder. “It’s time to go, Brie,” my mother said, her voice filled with sorrow and pity. She’d gone to get her umbrella from the limo and now held it over me.I glanced at her, and then down at the grave, then once more at the headstone before I walked away. In Loving MemoryMicah George2006-2022That day, if you had asked me what I thought happened to Micah or anyone after they died, I would’ve told you I was certain Micah was looking down at us from heaven. That he was shaking his head at us because we took this place a little too seriously. That I’d never see him again.But today…I’d tell you we are never really gone.
I think every author wishes a story could come to them as easily as this. Now, almost six months later, seeing the proof copy in my hands, I can’t believe I dreamed the whole thing.How it happened:I awoke with Katy Perry’s song in my head: When I’m gone, I’m never really gone You think you’re moving on But it won’t be for long, you’ll see When I’m gone, I’m never really gone…I didn’t even know who sang the song. I had to look it up. And then, I said, “Hmmm... Never Really Gone. That’s the title!”I grabbed the notebook and pen from my nightstand (yes; I keep them there for times like this) and began writing. A whole dream, from beginning to end, played like a movie in my mind. That was about 4:30 AM. I didn’t stop until about 6:30 pm. There may have been a bathroom break somewhere in there, but I don’t remember.When I finished, I’d filled every page of the notebook. The characters felt so familiar to me, like I’d known them. Of course, I hadn’t. It was the dream, still so fresh, and the few lyrics of that song were still playing in my head.I contacted my cover illustrator that evening, gave her the plot, and described the characters. I often like to have the cover on hand while writing the story. Imagine my surprise to find that my illustrator, booked months to a year out, had an opening for me. In about a day, she asked, “How’s this?” I can’t lie. I shed a tear. The cover was exactly what I envisioned.The next step was typing up everything I’d written and adding the meat of the story—the why’s, hows, and oh my gosh’s. No, that part didn't happen in a day. It took a couple of months.The hardest part of it all was making this a young adult novel, because I don't write many young adult books. But this couldn’t be told as a middle grade story, plus it has a tinge of romance (something I said I would never write). So what does an author do when venturing out into something new? Research. I looked for similar stories. The In Between which I think is now a movie and You’ve Reached Sam were a couple of books that stood out. Even the movie Ghost fit the theme. They all showed there is a market for this type of story.I am a Christian fiction author and do think this is a “Christian” story, but not the norm. It is inspiring. It has its share of sorrow, but it also has its share of joy and hope.I hope you enjoy Never Really Gone. I’m blessed to have been able to write it.I’m already dreaming of the next book... :)But in the meantime, here’s a snippet of Never Really Gone:Droplets of rain landed on the casket. One at a time as if someone were dropping them from a single eye dropper. And then, many eye droppers. A torrential downpour.Black umbrellas popped open here and there, but most didn’t seem to mind the weather. It was the least of my worries. Someone sang a hymn, and then a couple of people approached the podium to say a few words. When they finished, the pastor asked for a moment of silence, during which Micah’s mother burst into screams. Several people unsuccessfully tried to console her as the casket was lowered into the ground.I knew exactly how she felt—how each and every person who’d lost someone felt. I knew, because I felt the same way. The same pain. I just had a different way of showing it. There was a dark room inside me that I disappeared into and shut the door. It helped me deal with the numbness and kept me from having to respond to the pain or even eat.In the end, I was the last person standing at the grave. Soaked and shivering, still looking down at Micah’s casket, waiting. But waiting for what?A lone figure stood several feet away. The only person not dressed in black, he wore a gray hoodie and torn jeans. He waved and walked away.As I watched the stranger leave, a hand touched my shoulder. “It’s time to go, Brie,” my mother said, her voice filled with sorrow and pity. She’d gone to get her umbrella from the limo and now held it over me.I glanced at her, and then down at the grave, then once more at the headstone before I walked away. In Loving MemoryMicah George2006-2022That day, if you had asked me what I thought happened to Micah or anyone after they died, I would’ve told you I was certain Micah was looking down at us from heaven. That he was shaking his head at us because we took this place a little too seriously. That I’d never see him again.But today…I’d tell you we are never really gone.#youngadultbook #newrelease #teenlovestory
October 16, 2022
5 Holiday Chapter Books to Read Now
The most wonderful time of the year is just around the corner, so that means the season of gift-giving is also upon us. Here’s a list that will help you make your own holiday shopping lists a little easier and merrier--books that are ideal for getting middle grade readers into the “holly-jolly” spirit. Merry Reading! 
The Christmas Genie by Dan GutmanOnly hours away from Christmas vacation, what could possibly make more sense than a Christmas Genie named Bob crashing in your fifth grade classroom by way of a meteorite? The story’s narrator, Chase, and his classmates must decide on one wish. As the class attempts to come together to determine what to wish for, Dan Gutman entwines silly, funny wish ideas along with very serious topics like war, divorce, and the global impacts of some of the wishes the class considers. The debate is both thought-provoking and hilarious, creating a very enjoyable book for the holiday season. 
The Family Under the Bridge by Natalie Savage CarlsonA homeless man named Armand, living in Paris, is not ashamed of being labeled a “hobo.” Armand proclaims a dislike of children, but after meeting three children, Suzy, Evelyn, and Paul and their mother – he reluctantly allows them to share his space under a bridge in Paris during the Christmas season. He soon becomes attached to the children and is determined to provide a home for them, even if it means he has to work to do so. A heartwarming and memorable Newbery Honor-winning book about finding family in the unlikeliest places. 
The Best, Worst Christmas Pageant Ever by Barbara RobinsonThe Herdmans are the six worst kids in the history of the world. They lie, steal, smoke cigars, swear, and hit little kids. So no one is prepared when they show up at church one Sunday for Sunday School because they were told the church offers snacks. While there, they decide to take over the annual Christmas pageant, even though none of the Herdmans has ever heard the Christmas story before. Their interpretation brings chaos and hilarity, but it just may make this year's pageant the most unusual anyone has seen and, just possibly, the best one ever. 
Snicker’s Wish by L.B. AnneWhat happens when you combine a birthday wish with a Christmas wish? Only the first child born on Christmas day knows.'Tis the season to be jolly...until eleven-year-old Jared arrives home and finds his apartment door open. How do you find the Christmas spirit when your whole world turns upside down and your sister is missing?On a cold winter's morning, through the snow-covered streets of Crystal City, Jared makes his way to Mckinney Park. He is given a chance at something remarkable, because of one little girl's wish. A heartwarming Christmas story of the kindness of strangers, hope, and miracles. 
The Secret Santa Society by S. R. KramerSiblings Ethan and Aubrey Wilson make quite the discovery when they follow an elf through a magical door painted on the graffiti-filled wall across the street from where they live. Once inside, they find themselves in the middle of the special operations elves of Outpost Jingle Jangle where the focus isn’t on making toys but on creating Christmas miracles. Ethan and Aubrey are asked to help plan “The Star”, the biggest miracle of the year. This year, “The Star” is a miracle meant to transform their Florida hometown in ways they couldn't imagine before. Doing all of this without the notice of their parents, teachers, classmates, and a secret organization obsessed with proving the existence of Santa Claus proves tricky. A delightful story that weaves real life with a magical Christmas story. matters into their own hands to try to help Ahmet.
The Christmas Genie by Dan GutmanOnly hours away from Christmas vacation, what could possibly make more sense than a Christmas Genie named Bob crashing in your fifth grade classroom by way of a meteorite? The story’s narrator, Chase, and his classmates must decide on one wish. As the class attempts to come together to determine what to wish for, Dan Gutman entwines silly, funny wish ideas along with very serious topics like war, divorce, and the global impacts of some of the wishes the class considers. The debate is both thought-provoking and hilarious, creating a very enjoyable book for the holiday season. The Family Under the Bridge by Natalie Savage CarlsonA homeless man named Armand, living in Paris, is not ashamed of being labeled a “hobo.” Armand proclaims a dislike of children, but after meeting three children, Suzy, Evelyn, and Paul and their mother – he reluctantly allows them to share his space under a bridge in Paris during the Christmas season. He soon becomes attached to the children and is determined to provide a home for them, even if it means he has to work to do so. A heartwarming and memorable Newbery Honor-winning book about finding family in the unlikeliest places. The Best, Worst Christmas Pageant Ever by Barbara RobinsonThe Herdmans are the six worst kids in the history of the world. They lie, steal, smoke cigars, swear, and hit little kids. So no one is prepared when they show up at church one Sunday for Sunday School because they were told the church offers snacks. While there, they decide to take over the annual Christmas pageant, even though none of the Herdmans has ever heard the Christmas story before. Their interpretation brings chaos and hilarity, but it just may make this year's pageant the most unusual anyone has seen and, just possibly, the best one ever. Snicker’s Wish by L.B. AnneWhat happens when you combine a birthday wish with a Christmas wish? Only the first child born on Christmas day knows.'Tis the season to be jolly...until eleven-year-old Jared arrives home and finds his apartment door open. How do you find the Christmas spirit when your whole world turns upside down and your sister is missing?On a cold winter's morning, through the snow-covered streets of Crystal City, Jared makes his way to Mckinney Park. He is given a chance at something remarkable, because of one little girl's wish. A heartwarming Christmas story of the kindness of strangers, hope, and miracles. The Secret Santa Society by S. R. KramerSiblings Ethan and Aubrey Wilson make quite the discovery when they follow an elf through a magical door painted on the graffiti-filled wall across the street from where they live. Once inside, they find themselves in the middle of the special operations elves of Outpost Jingle Jangle where the focus isn’t on making toys but on creating Christmas miracles. Ethan and Aubrey are asked to help plan “The Star”, the biggest miracle of the year. This year, “The Star” is a miracle meant to transform their Florida hometown in ways they couldn't imagine before. Doing all of this without the notice of their parents, teachers, classmates, and a secret organization obsessed with proving the existence of Santa Claus proves tricky. A delightful story that weaves real life with a magical Christmas story. matters into their own hands to try to help Ahmet. #middlegradebooks #holidaystories #christmasstories #booksfortheholidays
August 20, 2022
7 Middle Grade Books to Check Out
Winding Down and Gearing Up!We have arrived at the other “New Year” for 2022…that time when summer is coming to a close, and kids and teens everywhere embark on their next journey; a new school year. In many places, like Florida where I live, that transition isn’t signified by a change in temperature. No, here Mother Nature likes to keep her thermostat turned way up for several more months. School busses and school supplies in stores are the signals to us Floridians that summer is ending. Reading some new books is a great way to either hang on tight to the end of a spectacular summer or get your thoughts focused on the upcoming school year. I have some awesome book suggestions for you for whichever of those things is most on your mind. Wishing you Happy Reading! If you’re hanging onto summer, check out these four great books: 
Sophie Washington: Treasure Beach by Tonya Duncan EllisIn the 13th book of the Sophie Washington series, a message in a bottle leads Sophie into tons of summertime fun and adventure. During a two week trip to Corpus Christi, Texas to stay with her grandmother, Sophie, her younger brother, Cole, and her best friend, Chloe, embark on a treasure hunt after a discovery made during a day at the beach. While searching for the seaside treasure, the kids get the chance to snorkel, visit a World War II warship, and encounter endangered sea turtles. In the end, the real summer treasures are honesty and true friendship.Click on the book cover for more information. 
The Summer of Bad Ideas by Kiera StewartAfter her eccentric grandmother dies unexpectedly of a heart attack, Edith travels to Florida with her family to clean out her grandmother’s equally peculiar home. There Edith meets her cousin, the ultra cool Rae, for the first time. The two opposite girls come across a list written by their grandmother back when she was their age. The list is called “Good Ideas for Summertime,” but in Edith’s opinion, this list is filled with nothing but bad ideas. Still, the girls set out on a quest to complete the list, Edith hoping it will give her a chance at becoming someone more brave and bold like her cousin and her grandmother. Adventure and mischief abound as Edith tries to reinvent herself in just one summer! Click on the book cover for more information. 
When Life Gives You Mangos by Kereen GettenNamed to Oprah Magazine's Best Caribbean Books for Your 2021 reading list, imagination and adventure run wild in the most talked about middle grade debut of the year! A small village on a Jamaican island. A girl who doesn't remember the previous summer. A best friend who is no longer acting like one; a new girl who fills that hole in her heart. A summer of finding fallen mangos, creating made up games and dancing in the rain. Secrets she keeps from others...and herself.The courage to face the truth even in the toughest of storms. Click on the book cover for more information. Inspired by the author's childhood experiences, When Life Give You Mangos is a celebration of island life as well as a rich, lyrical mystery. Read it...and don't spoil the unforgettable ending! 
Zoey Lyndon's Misadventures at Camp by Micheal AndersonZoey and her bestie, Tommi, are hitting the trails! They’re attending Camp Whispering Pines, a five-night Engineering Camp Experience. Things are off to a great start, and Zoey’s enjoying her camp friends and newfound freedom. But things take an unexpected turn when Zoey and her friends stumble upon an interesting discovery—the camp’s legendary One-Eyed Nelson is in fact a real person! And to make matters worse, Zoey makes a decision that places her and a cabin mate in danger, putting them both at risk of being dismissed from camp.Will Zoey and her friends uncover the truth about One-Eyed Nelson? What consequence will Zoey’s decision have?Click on the book cover for more information. If you’re ready for your new school year, here are a few school stories for you: 
The Boy at the Back of the Class by Onjali Q RaúfThree weeks after the beginning of the new school year, a chair that had started the year empty was now occupied. Its new inhabitant is a boy from Syria named Ahmet, and four best friends from the class are determined to become his friends even though he doesn’t speak English and seems very unhappy in his new school environment. The friends become even more determined to become Ahmet’s friend when they find out that he’s a refugee and what that means; he’s left his home country to escape a real war with real bombs, and that he’s separated from his family because of it. When his new friends find out there’s an upcoming deadline for him to be reunited with his family, they take matters into their own hands to try to help Ahmet. Click on the book cover for more information. A book filled with friendship and kindness, as well as understanding of challenges some students face if they are in a new place, with a new language, and a life experiences very different from their new peers. 
Fish in a Tree by Lynda Mullaly HuntAlly is always in trouble at school, has no friends, and none of her teachers so far have figured her out. That’s partly because she’s moved around so much with a military father and partly because her antics in class lead her teachers to believe she’s a behavior problem, not a student who struggles with learning. But when Mr. Daniels becomes her teacher, things change. He doesn’t let Ally get away with her usual “tricks” and before long has her doing things she never thought were possible, like believing her she’s not dumb and that her brain just works differently. With each day she gains confidence and some new friends that help her see herself in a whole new light. A heartwarming and insightful book that brings understanding of how someone with a learning disability Click on the book cover for more information. needs people in their corner to help them figure out that being different is isn’t all that defines them. 
Ban this Book by Alan GratzA very timely novel about a fourth grade girl who fights back when her favorite book, From the Mixed-Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler by E. L. Konigsburg is banned from her school library. Amy Anne is usually a quiet and shy girl, not outspoken at all. But when more and more of her favorite books are gone from the school’s library shelves, she decides to fight back by starting a secret library of her own in her hall locker. Her library, the BBLL (Banned Book Lending Library) consists only of books that have been taken away from Amy Anne and her peers. Soon, she finds herself in an unexpected battle over book banning, censorship, and who has the right to decide what she and her fellow students can read. Click on the book cover for more information. An inspiring novel about having the courage to speak up when you feel strongly that something is wrong just like Amy Anne, who had to find the courage to become the spokesperson for her friends and readers everywhere.
Sophie Washington: Treasure Beach by Tonya Duncan EllisIn the 13th book of the Sophie Washington series, a message in a bottle leads Sophie into tons of summertime fun and adventure. During a two week trip to Corpus Christi, Texas to stay with her grandmother, Sophie, her younger brother, Cole, and her best friend, Chloe, embark on a treasure hunt after a discovery made during a day at the beach. While searching for the seaside treasure, the kids get the chance to snorkel, visit a World War II warship, and encounter endangered sea turtles. In the end, the real summer treasures are honesty and true friendship.Click on the book cover for more information. The Summer of Bad Ideas by Kiera StewartAfter her eccentric grandmother dies unexpectedly of a heart attack, Edith travels to Florida with her family to clean out her grandmother’s equally peculiar home. There Edith meets her cousin, the ultra cool Rae, for the first time. The two opposite girls come across a list written by their grandmother back when she was their age. The list is called “Good Ideas for Summertime,” but in Edith’s opinion, this list is filled with nothing but bad ideas. Still, the girls set out on a quest to complete the list, Edith hoping it will give her a chance at becoming someone more brave and bold like her cousin and her grandmother. Adventure and mischief abound as Edith tries to reinvent herself in just one summer! Click on the book cover for more information. When Life Gives You Mangos by Kereen GettenNamed to Oprah Magazine's Best Caribbean Books for Your 2021 reading list, imagination and adventure run wild in the most talked about middle grade debut of the year! A small village on a Jamaican island. A girl who doesn't remember the previous summer. A best friend who is no longer acting like one; a new girl who fills that hole in her heart. A summer of finding fallen mangos, creating made up games and dancing in the rain. Secrets she keeps from others...and herself.The courage to face the truth even in the toughest of storms. Click on the book cover for more information. Inspired by the author's childhood experiences, When Life Give You Mangos is a celebration of island life as well as a rich, lyrical mystery. Read it...and don't spoil the unforgettable ending! Zoey Lyndon's Misadventures at Camp by Micheal AndersonZoey and her bestie, Tommi, are hitting the trails! They’re attending Camp Whispering Pines, a five-night Engineering Camp Experience. Things are off to a great start, and Zoey’s enjoying her camp friends and newfound freedom. But things take an unexpected turn when Zoey and her friends stumble upon an interesting discovery—the camp’s legendary One-Eyed Nelson is in fact a real person! And to make matters worse, Zoey makes a decision that places her and a cabin mate in danger, putting them both at risk of being dismissed from camp.Will Zoey and her friends uncover the truth about One-Eyed Nelson? What consequence will Zoey’s decision have?Click on the book cover for more information. If you’re ready for your new school year, here are a few school stories for you: The Boy at the Back of the Class by Onjali Q RaúfThree weeks after the beginning of the new school year, a chair that had started the year empty was now occupied. Its new inhabitant is a boy from Syria named Ahmet, and four best friends from the class are determined to become his friends even though he doesn’t speak English and seems very unhappy in his new school environment. The friends become even more determined to become Ahmet’s friend when they find out that he’s a refugee and what that means; he’s left his home country to escape a real war with real bombs, and that he’s separated from his family because of it. When his new friends find out there’s an upcoming deadline for him to be reunited with his family, they take matters into their own hands to try to help Ahmet. Click on the book cover for more information. A book filled with friendship and kindness, as well as understanding of challenges some students face if they are in a new place, with a new language, and a life experiences very different from their new peers. Fish in a Tree by Lynda Mullaly HuntAlly is always in trouble at school, has no friends, and none of her teachers so far have figured her out. That’s partly because she’s moved around so much with a military father and partly because her antics in class lead her teachers to believe she’s a behavior problem, not a student who struggles with learning. But when Mr. Daniels becomes her teacher, things change. He doesn’t let Ally get away with her usual “tricks” and before long has her doing things she never thought were possible, like believing her she’s not dumb and that her brain just works differently. With each day she gains confidence and some new friends that help her see herself in a whole new light. A heartwarming and insightful book that brings understanding of how someone with a learning disability Click on the book cover for more information. needs people in their corner to help them figure out that being different is isn’t all that defines them. Ban this Book by Alan GratzA very timely novel about a fourth grade girl who fights back when her favorite book, From the Mixed-Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler by E. L. Konigsburg is banned from her school library. Amy Anne is usually a quiet and shy girl, not outspoken at all. But when more and more of her favorite books are gone from the school’s library shelves, she decides to fight back by starting a secret library of her own in her hall locker. Her library, the BBLL (Banned Book Lending Library) consists only of books that have been taken away from Amy Anne and her peers. Soon, she finds herself in an unexpected battle over book banning, censorship, and who has the right to decide what she and her fellow students can read. Click on the book cover for more information. An inspiring novel about having the courage to speak up when you feel strongly that something is wrong just like Amy Anne, who had to find the courage to become the spokesperson for her friends and readers everywhere. #middlegradebooks #booksaboutsummer #booksfornewschoolyear
August 7, 2022
What goes into a Barnes & Noble Book signing?
A book signing is more than showing up polished with books and a pen.There’s a lot that goes on behind the scenes.
Allow me to tell you my story. Here’s a special look behind the scenes of L. B. Anne’s shenanigans.You know me; I don’t really do book signings. Five Things About Dragonflies released, and I decided it was the book that should have a book signing. I’ve received nothing but positive feedback and a glowing Kirkus review, so I said "Why not? Let’s do it.”Well, first I had to get the nerve to actually walk into a Barnes & Noble and ask to have a book signing. First, I went to an independent bookstore and was told that local authors don’t sell. Insert kick to the gut. Then I left there and went to Barnes & Noble. Now think about it, I was just turned down and still continued on to the next store even though I’m not traditionally published and Barnes and Noble didn’t know me from Shannon Denby (I made that name up).Sweat poured from my armpits (thank goodness for a loose-fitting shirt) as I introduced myself and told the manager about my books. Lo-and-behold, he wore a smile the entire time. That made it a little easier. Then he told me he had to talk to his people and he would get back to my people (me). Listen, three weeks went by with no response to my follow-up email. Or a response to my next 3 emails. So, I mustered up the gumption to go back to Barnes & Noble and confront the manager. I had to be slick about it, so first I looked around at books in the middle grade section. I wanted to purchase a few, anyway. Then I turned around, and a man was standing behind me at a computer. It was him. I reintroduced myself, but he knew exactly who I was and said he was reading my emails as I approached. He’d been on vacation.Now, I felt like a stalker. He told me we were good to go and Barnes & Noble needed to order books. Then he asked how many I thought they should order. Now get this, “Fifty!” I exclaimed like I knew what the heck I was talking about.He looked at me like I was nuts.In case you didn’t know, they never order that amount. It’s more like 20 or 25. “Thirty!” I said after he told me that. “And I will sell the heck out of those books!” Where did this person come from? I was even shocked I said it.He emailed me later. “We ordered 25.” LOL.Well, after that, panic mode set in. Can I sell 25 books? Will anyone even show up?Before long, I’d gone from panic mode to preparation mode. There were banners and pocket cards to be designed and decisions to be made. And questions—so many questions. How would I decorate my table? What would I give as a gift? What would I wear? Did people still bring a bowl of candy? Did everyone know how to use a QR code? I needed one of those, too. I needed shoes I could stand in for 3 hours. Advertising—where to start? Do I need teeth whitening strips?And back to panic mode. “Yikes, I have to sell 25 books!”Needless to say, it’s been a busy and emotional rollercoaster kind of month. I’m going to come back after the signing and update this post. Don’t you want to know how it turns out?If you live in Florida, I sure hope you’ll attend. Why? Because I have TWENTY-FIVE BOOKS TO SELL!Blessings,LBUpdate! We sold out![image error][image error][image error]It was such a wonderful and rewarding experience. I became Ms. Extrovert and enjoyed meeting so many awesome children, teachers, librarians, and families.
Allow me to tell you my story. Here’s a special look behind the scenes of L. B. Anne’s shenanigans.You know me; I don’t really do book signings. Five Things About Dragonflies released, and I decided it was the book that should have a book signing. I’ve received nothing but positive feedback and a glowing Kirkus review, so I said "Why not? Let’s do it.”Well, first I had to get the nerve to actually walk into a Barnes & Noble and ask to have a book signing. First, I went to an independent bookstore and was told that local authors don’t sell. Insert kick to the gut. Then I left there and went to Barnes & Noble. Now think about it, I was just turned down and still continued on to the next store even though I’m not traditionally published and Barnes and Noble didn’t know me from Shannon Denby (I made that name up).Sweat poured from my armpits (thank goodness for a loose-fitting shirt) as I introduced myself and told the manager about my books. Lo-and-behold, he wore a smile the entire time. That made it a little easier. Then he told me he had to talk to his people and he would get back to my people (me). Listen, three weeks went by with no response to my follow-up email. Or a response to my next 3 emails. So, I mustered up the gumption to go back to Barnes & Noble and confront the manager. I had to be slick about it, so first I looked around at books in the middle grade section. I wanted to purchase a few, anyway. Then I turned around, and a man was standing behind me at a computer. It was him. I reintroduced myself, but he knew exactly who I was and said he was reading my emails as I approached. He’d been on vacation.Now, I felt like a stalker. He told me we were good to go and Barnes & Noble needed to order books. Then he asked how many I thought they should order. Now get this, “Fifty!” I exclaimed like I knew what the heck I was talking about.He looked at me like I was nuts.In case you didn’t know, they never order that amount. It’s more like 20 or 25. “Thirty!” I said after he told me that. “And I will sell the heck out of those books!” Where did this person come from? I was even shocked I said it.He emailed me later. “We ordered 25.” LOL.Well, after that, panic mode set in. Can I sell 25 books? Will anyone even show up?Before long, I’d gone from panic mode to preparation mode. There were banners and pocket cards to be designed and decisions to be made. And questions—so many questions. How would I decorate my table? What would I give as a gift? What would I wear? Did people still bring a bowl of candy? Did everyone know how to use a QR code? I needed one of those, too. I needed shoes I could stand in for 3 hours. Advertising—where to start? Do I need teeth whitening strips?And back to panic mode. “Yikes, I have to sell 25 books!”Needless to say, it’s been a busy and emotional rollercoaster kind of month. I’m going to come back after the signing and update this post. Don’t you want to know how it turns out?If you live in Florida, I sure hope you’ll attend. Why? Because I have TWENTY-FIVE BOOKS TO SELL!Blessings,LBUpdate! We sold out![image error][image error][image error]It was such a wonderful and rewarding experience. I became Ms. Extrovert and enjoyed meeting so many awesome children, teachers, librarians, and families.#booksigning @barnesandnoble #howtoprepareforabooksigning #authorevent
July 10, 2022
Middle Grade Book Review
Hello! My name is Gianna and I am one of the L.B. Anne summer interns. Today I am assigned to blog my latest read. This week I read The Miscalculations of Lightning Girl by Stacy McAnulty.
The Miscalculations of Lightning Girl is about a girl named Lucy Callahan. Though she doesn't remember, she was struck by lightning. Somehow, she survived. The lightning gave her genius-level math skills, and she’s been homeschooled ever since. Now, at the age of 12, her grandmother enrolled her in middle school to spend time with kids her age. Lucy decided she wanted to keep her math skills private. She also had ADHD and didn't want anyone to find out, so she didn't want to go back to school. She thought people would bully her for being smart. I'm not going to spoil it for you. You will have to read it to find out how it ends.I would rate this book an 8.5 out of 10 stars. Perhaps more. It was full of humor. I recommend this book for ages 9-13. Thank you, L. B. Anne, for letting me step into the world of writing!Gianna S.
The Miscalculations of Lightning Girl is about a girl named Lucy Callahan. Though she doesn't remember, she was struck by lightning. Somehow, she survived. The lightning gave her genius-level math skills, and she’s been homeschooled ever since. Now, at the age of 12, her grandmother enrolled her in middle school to spend time with kids her age. Lucy decided she wanted to keep her math skills private. She also had ADHD and didn't want anyone to find out, so she didn't want to go back to school. She thought people would bully her for being smart. I'm not going to spoil it for you. You will have to read it to find out how it ends.I would rate this book an 8.5 out of 10 stars. Perhaps more. It was full of humor. I recommend this book for ages 9-13. Thank you, L. B. Anne, for letting me step into the world of writing!Gianna S.#miscalculationsoflightninggirl #stacymcanulty #middlegradebookreview #middlegracebookrecs #tweenreads
July 5, 2022
A Middle Grade Reader Exploring Young Adult Fiction
My name is Layla and I’m one of L.B Anne’s interns for her summer internship! As homework, I’ve been given the opportunity to blog about one of my favorite books. So, I’ll be discussing The Secret Language of Sisters, by Luanne Rice. There are many reasons why I enjoyed this book so much, which include:1. It explores the relationship and love between sisters.2. It touches on the dynamics of being a teen in today’s world.3. It is packed with drama, suspense, and a few surprises. I will give you a glimpse below.
As promised, here is a brief synopsis: When Roo responds to a text while driving, she, unfortunately, gets into a horrible accident and ends up in the hospital. Everyone thinks that she is in a coma, but instead, she has a rare syndrome. She can still hear and see but can’t move or speak at all. She’s trapped in her body, screaming to be heard. Tilly, Roo’s sister, has begun to grow feelings for Roo’s boyfriend. It’s up to Tilly to discover her sister’s condition. Will they both be able to heal?Since I am ten, I am just starting to explore the world of Young Adult Fiction. I will be hard-pressed to find a YAF novel I love as much as this one. This story had me heartbroken and stuck with me long after I turned the last page. I love how it shares both Tilly and Roo’s points of view.I recommend this book for ages 12 and up and overall I rate this book a 9.5 out of 10. I hope this inspires the readers of this blog to check it out. Hopefully, you’ll enjoy it as much as I did!Layla
As promised, here is a brief synopsis: When Roo responds to a text while driving, she, unfortunately, gets into a horrible accident and ends up in the hospital. Everyone thinks that she is in a coma, but instead, she has a rare syndrome. She can still hear and see but can’t move or speak at all. She’s trapped in her body, screaming to be heard. Tilly, Roo’s sister, has begun to grow feelings for Roo’s boyfriend. It’s up to Tilly to discover her sister’s condition. Will they both be able to heal?Since I am ten, I am just starting to explore the world of Young Adult Fiction. I will be hard-pressed to find a YAF novel I love as much as this one. This story had me heartbroken and stuck with me long after I turned the last page. I love how it shares both Tilly and Roo’s points of view.I recommend this book for ages 12 and up and overall I rate this book a 9.5 out of 10. I hope this inspires the readers of this blog to check it out. Hopefully, you’ll enjoy it as much as I did!Layla#thesecretlanguageofsisters #oldermiddlegrade #youngadultbooks #luannerice
July 4, 2022
New Kid Graphic Novel
Hi, my name is Liora and I am an intern for L.B. Anne’s summer Author Apprentice Internship Program. This week I was assigned to read a book and write a blog about it. The book I chose this week is a graphic novel called New Kid written and illustrated by JERRY CRAFT. 
New Kid is about a boy named Jordan Banks who moved to a new city and is starting a new school. Jordan is an artist who wants to go to art school but his parents want him to focus on his education rather than his art so they send him to the Red school. When Jordan first got to the school students picked on him and singled him out. He felt very lonely. But he eventually made friends and started to actually enjoy the school. I really enjoyed this book. I have many favorite parts and really liked the illustrations. I can relate to starting a new school and a lot of the feelings that went with it. I highly recommend
New Kid
and I'm excited to read the second one in the series called Class Art.Thank you for reading,Liora
New Kid is about a boy named Jordan Banks who moved to a new city and is starting a new school. Jordan is an artist who wants to go to art school but his parents want him to focus on his education rather than his art so they send him to the Red school. When Jordan first got to the school students picked on him and singled him out. He felt very lonely. But he eventually made friends and started to actually enjoy the school. I really enjoyed this book. I have many favorite parts and really liked the illustrations. I can relate to starting a new school and a lot of the feelings that went with it. I highly recommend
New Kid
and I'm excited to read the second one in the series called Class Art.Thank you for reading,Liora#newkidbook #graphicnovel #middlegradebook #Jerrycraft
July 3, 2022
Crown Day Reads: Love Your Hair
Today we want to celebrate CROWN Day! July 3rd commemorates California’s 2019 passing of the Create a Respectful and Open World for Natural Hair, or CROWN Act, which outlawed race-based hair discrimination in employment and education. Since then, 17 states have added this law and there is currently a bill in the Senate to make the CROWN Act federally enforced. You can sign the petition to urge legislators to end hair discrimination and vote yes on the CROWN Act
here
. And you can elect people who will work to get the CROWN Act passed with your vote in the midterm election on November 8th. Make sure you are registered to vote well in advance of Election Day and make a plan to get to the polls!CROWN Day is also known as Black Hair Independence Day, as the act was specifically targeted to eliminate discrimination against Black women’s hair textures and protective hairstyles like braids, locs, twists or bantu knots. We want to celebrate these styles and textures in all their natural beauty with some books about loving the hair you were given!
Hair Love written by Matthew A. Cherry and illustrated by Vashti Harrison tells early level readers the story of a dad who is determined to learn how to do his daughter’s hair for a special occasion!
Crown: An Ode to the Fresh Cut written by Derrick Barnes and illustrated by Gordon C. James tells early level readers the story of barbershops and all they do to boost self-confidence and help kids love themselves!
Curls written by Ruth Forman and illustrated by Geneva Bowers is an early level story that celebrates all different types of fun hairstyles with illustrations that capture the life and beauty of Black hair!
Pickled Pudding by L.B. Anne is the first book in the Curly Girl Adventures series for intermediate level readers. It tells the story of Zuri, the leader of the Curly Girl Club, who tries to help her friend return her hair to its natural curly state! Visit TheCROWNAct.com for more information and resources!Story Shifters started as an opportunity to expose children of African descent to the many stories of people who look like them from all over the world. Through reading clubs and youth programming, Stories Shifters aims to build not only children's literacy skills and historical knowledge but also their confidence to develop their own stories to share with their communities and broader. Visit www.thestoryshifters.com for more information.
Hair Love written by Matthew A. Cherry and illustrated by Vashti Harrison tells early level readers the story of a dad who is determined to learn how to do his daughter’s hair for a special occasion!Crown: An Ode to the Fresh Cut written by Derrick Barnes and illustrated by Gordon C. James tells early level readers the story of barbershops and all they do to boost self-confidence and help kids love themselves!Curls written by Ruth Forman and illustrated by Geneva Bowers is an early level story that celebrates all different types of fun hairstyles with illustrations that capture the life and beauty of Black hair!Pickled Pudding by L.B. Anne is the first book in the Curly Girl Adventures series for intermediate level readers. It tells the story of Zuri, the leader of the Curly Girl Club, who tries to help her friend return her hair to its natural curly state! Visit TheCROWNAct.com for more information and resources!Story Shifters started as an opportunity to expose children of African descent to the many stories of people who look like them from all over the world. Through reading clubs and youth programming, Stories Shifters aims to build not only children's literacy skills and historical knowledge but also their confidence to develop their own stories to share with their communities and broader. Visit www.thestoryshifters.com for more information.#crwonact #crownday #hairlove #pickledpudding #curls #crownanodetofreshcut #mattheycherry #derrickbarnes #ruthforman #storyshifters
