From The Mixed Up Files

I have known author Sara Shacter since we were both on the newer side to writing for children. I am so excited that I got a first-look at her debut novel Georgia Watson and the 99 Percent Campaign which just came out October 14, 2025. About the Book Hi Sara! Congrats on your debut middle grade novel! Can you give us a short summary about the book? After years of moving, Georgia’s family is staying put. What’s the best part of her new forever home? Fellow science fan Izzy! Georgia feels lucky to be starting...

October delivers three big news stories to share in the world of middle grade books. We have Banned Books Week, a Reading Rainbow Revival, and the announcement of National Book Award finalists. Read on for details.   Big Story #1 What: Banned Books Week When: October 5-11, 2025  This year, the theme is “Censorship is So 1984. Read for Your Rights.” The American Library Association and the Banned Books Week Coalition are drawing attention to the dangers of restricting access to books by tying the theme to George Orwell’s classic cautionary tale. Pioneering actor, author, and activist George Takei will...

Raise your hand if you grew up learning the scientific method. Me too. In fact, for thousands of years, all the way back to Aristotle in Ancient Greece (and possibly earlier), the scientific method has been the way science is done. And it still is. Sort of. When the Next...

  Monsters, zombies, and other scary creatures star in tales throughout the year, but especially near Halloween! These books explore a wide range of creatures, both real and imagined, to get imaginations flowing. They make a great starting point for classroom discussions and activities!   Zombie Makers: True Stories of...

I have known author Sara Shacter since we were both on the newer side to writing for children. I am so excited that I got a first-look at her debut novel Georgia Watson and the 99 Percent Campaign which just came out October 14, 2025. About the Book Hi Sara!...

Raise your hand if you grew up learning the scientific method. Me too. In fact, for thousands of years, all the way back to Aristotle in Ancient Greece (and possibly earlier), the scientific method has been the way science is done. And it still is. Sort of. When the Next...

This month’s new releases offer adventure, suspense, fairy tales, and a puzzling mystery. And, be sure to check out From the Mixed Up Files Founder Jennifer Swanson’s latest, a fantastic three-week scientific journey through the rainforest! Links to all the titles to bookshop.org, which supports local bookstores! Busted  written by ...

Why we love podcasts about kids books? Podcasts are the perfect way to consume quality material while running errands, cleaning, driving, getting ready for work, etc. We build connections, learn, are entertained, expand our thoughts and opinions, and get inspired to be and do better. With so many great hosts...