Check out the New Children's Book Insider

A few months ago, Laura Backes and Jon Bard, founders of Children's Book Insider, invited me to join their team as a contributor. And I said yes! They optimistically call me their Middle Grade Expert. I'm looking at this every-other-month post as tool for learning more about this rich and complex genre by going to the experts. In my first post, I tap the brains of writers Tom Angleberger, Jenni Holm, Barbara O'Connor, and Susan Patron, as well as librarian and blogger, Mary Ann Scheuer.

Laura and Jon have worked hard to update and revamp their website and I invite you to check it out. I also invite you to submit any questions you may have about the genre of middle grade literature (fiction and nonfiction) and I'll do my best to find the folks who can give us answers!