The Mafia 4-1-1 is where we ask authors the same 4 questions, an additional 1 specific to their book, and for 1 fun photo. Today we welcome Kathryn Erskine, the acclaimed author of many distinguished novels for young readers, including MOCKINGBIRD, winner of the National Book Award; THE ABSOLUTE VALUE OF MIKE, an Amazon Best Book and ALA Notable Book; and QUAKING, an ALA Top Ten Quick Pick for Reluctant Readers. Her latest book, The Incredible [...]
Recently, Middle Grade Mafia featured a debut MG novel, The Unlikely Story of a Pig in the City, by Jodi Kendall. This wonderful tale of a little pig in the big city won us over. We were lucky to steal a few moments of the busy author's time for an interview. Hope you enjoy! Middle Grade Mafia: This is your debut MG book. Please share with us your path to having THE UNLIKELY STORY OF A [...]
Yesterday, the Mafia was lucky enough to be a part of the launch of M.E. Castle's FAKESPEARE. Today, we are proud to bring you a quick interview with this talented author. You may recognize his name from THE CLONE CHRONICLES, but get ready to check out his latest read. Middle Grade Mafia: How would you describe your writing process? M.E. Castle: Some writers thrive on building big plot outlines, stitching out a whole sequence of [...]
Today we are honored to have Marina Cohen with us. She is an author of numerous books for children and young adults. Her spine-chilling middle-grade novel The Inn Between was released in March of 2016. Her novel The Doll’s Eye releases in February of 2017. Middle Grade Mafia: How did you decide to become a writer and what was your path to publication? Marina Cohen: It was always my dream to be a published author. [...]
Extraordinary Sam & The Adventurer’s Guild is a fun, action-packed novel that’s a great summertime read for middle graders. We caught up with Kevin and asked him about his enthusiasm for adventure stories. Middle Grade Mafia: Have you found that the book is most popular with a certain group of readers? Kevin Springer: When writing Extraordinary Sam, I didn’t think about writing for a specific group. I wanted to create a story that is relatable to whoever picks [...]
Lisa Lewis Tyre's debut middle grade novel Last in a Long Line of Rebels launched in September, 2015 with starred reviews. I asked her about her launch experience as well as what happens after the launch. MGM: So, now that you've experienced the book launch, was there anything unexpected or would do differently for your next launch? LLT: My launch was so much fun. I had a celebration at my local Indie bookstore, Fox Tale Books, and invited everyone I [...]
When my son brought home The Last Kids on Earth by Max Brallier, I called dibs. Luckily, I won the rock, paper, scissors match and I got to read the book first. I already reviewed the book a few weeks ago, but was super jazzed to have Max join us on “The Writer’s Block.” Middle Grade Mafia: I see you have written a variety of books, did you always have the writing bug? Max Brallier: Not always. [...]
Rosanne Parry’s latest book Turn of the Tide is an achievement of realistic fiction that’s received starred reviews. The book starts with the historical Tsunami in Japan and follows two cousins (one in Japan and the other in Oregon) as they dealt with the aftermath. The book is not only heart-warming, it’s an exciting adventure. We asked Rosanne about her writing success. MGM: Although the tragic tsunami that hit Japan occurred only five years ago, most children don’t know much about it. Your book even [...]
We recently reviewed the wonderfully quirky mystery Nooks and Crannies and are excited to have the author with us today. Please welcome Jessica Lawson. Middle Grade Mafia: Can you tell us how you decided to become a writer and what your path to published author was like? Jessica Lawson: Back in 2009, I’d just had my first child and since she was a great sleeper and I had stopped working to be a stay-at-home-mom, I [...]
Today the mafia is excited to interview award winning author of multiple books for children including picture books, chapter books and middle grade . . . Kate Messner. Her mystery series the Silver Jaquar Society is one of my favorite and has broad appeal. I asked her how she accomplished this success. Middle Grade Mafia: Your award winning mystery, Capture the Flag, features three children, Anna, Jose and Henry. The book really appeals to both girls and boys which is a rare [...]
