From The Mixed Up Files

Unlike most kids I knew, my family moved almost every year. New town. New school. New hallways to navigate. And nearly every time, I was the only kid of color in the room. This not only left me feeling unsure about who I’d sit with at lunch, but unsure about who I would have to become in order to fit in. Why it Matters: During the summer months, many kids are bracing for that intense kind of transition. Some are moving across town. Some across states. Some across oceans. They won’t just be starting over....

All of us — authors, educators, parents/caregivers, engaged, curious citizens, and of course, readers — have benefitted from America’s libraries. Libraries are the beating heart of our communities, doing everything from hosting events, offering free resources, helping us research, creating special spaces for kids, and being a safe place we can all gather together. Libraries are also all-too vulnerable to budget cuts, and they desperately need the support of each and every one of us. This summer, do you have five minutes to take on one or more suggested activities to Show Up #ForOurLibraries? Here are ways to help, from...

Unlike most kids I knew, my family moved almost every year. New town. New school. New hallways to navigate. And nearly every time, I was the only kid of color in the room. This not only left me feeling unsure about who I’d sit with at lunch, but unsure about...

Writing Exercise: Making Facts Sticky! For this non-fiction exercise, pick a plant to gather information about. Write down at least five things you already know about the plant, especially the most basic, common things. Got it? Great! Now it’s time to make those facts memorable......

In today’s Author Spotlight, Landra Jennings chats with author Barbara Carroll Roberts about her new middle-grade novel, The Metamorphosis of Bunny Baxter (Holiday House, July 22). She’ll share her inspiration behind writing it, the passion for gardening and wildlife that informed it, and the lovely inspiration for the dog character. Plus, there’s a chance to...

When it seems like the world is just too much for our kids, when we witness hurt, fear, loneliness, a middle schooler’s loss of family or friends, it’s time to spread some hope. This is exactly how Libby, who comes from a long line of bullies, fights her reputation after...

So many BOOKS, so little time. That’s an appropriate mantra for New Releases this month. Below you’ll find a large and varied collection of novels to look for this July. Blood in the Water  by Tiffany D. Jackson. July 1. 272 pp. Brooklyn girl Kaylani McKinnon feels like a fish...

Receiving an offer of representation from an agent is so exciting…especially after all your hard work. Celebrate! Then take some time to come up with important questions to ask before saying yes. Because not having an agent is better than having the wrong one for you and your career. First...