Author Interviews

Mixed-Up Member Spotlight: Patricia Bailey

By on February 16, 2026   /   Author Interviews   /   Leave a comment

It’s always a joy to shine a spotlight one of our Mixed-Up Files members – this time with accomplished author Patricia Bailey, whose contributions to the blog are much appreciated! Check out our interview below, pick up a copy of her stellar book, and browse Patricia’s Mixed-Up posts. Thank you, Patricia!

Patricia Bailey headshot

Welcome to the Member Spotlight, Patricia! Where did your interest in writing Middle Grade first take shape, and how did that lead you to being involved with From the Mixed-Up Files…?

I was a middle and high school teacher for years and wrote with students the entire time. I eventually realized that the pieces I wrote that had a young protagonist were the ones I had the most fun with. So, when I decided to see if I could write a novel, middle grade was it! I was a big fan of From the Mixed-Up Files when I was teaching, and was beyond thrilled when they accepted me as a member.

Your multiple award-winning novel, THE TRAGICALLY TRUE ADVENTURES OF KIT DONOVAN, blends action with deeper emotional elements like grief and self-identity. What drove you to write this story, and how did you weave these elements together to create such a compelling tale?

KIT came to me on a road trip that took me through Goldfield, Nevada, a small town on US Route 95 between Reno and Las Vegas. I ended up chatting with the owner of a rock/antique shop there. He filled me in on the history of the town and the interesting people who had lived there when it was booming. For some reason, I just couldn’t let the place go. Then the character of Kit came to me and I just started writing. Once I started writing, the idea of redemption through a child’s eyes really took hold of me. I think at some level we’re all still nine year’s old – trying to figure out how to love others and still love ourselves – and how to make up for the harms we cause along the way. Being human is tough work. Perhaps recognizing shades of our struggle in the lives of other people – even fictional ones – will help us all be a little bit more compassionate.

Book Cover:

The Tragically True Adventures of Kit Donovan

Your website lists a lot of the active things you do – from hiking to rafting to even having a black belt in aikido. Do these activities inspire your writing, or are they a respite from it (or somewhere in between)?

I think that everything you do somehow seeds the writing – even if you don’t recognize it at the time. Right now I am pretty deep in to caregiving the people I love. I imagine that is seeping in when I actually find time to write now, and I imagine it will influence the work I do in the future.

Some of the favorite books you list from your childhood include the catalogs of Beverly Cleary and Judy Blume, among others. How have those authors in particular inspired and influenced you as a writer?

I think for the most part the books you read as kids help you see yourself better. Judy Blume’s Tiger Eyes was the book that made me feel less alone when my dad died when I was nine. Though the circumstances were vastly different, Davey felt like a big sister, leading me through some of the grief and letting me know that some of my reactions weren’t as weird as I thought – because she did them (or something like them) too. Eventually, I realized that the writers that I admired were just ordinary people who wrote – not magical, mythical creatures – and that with hard work and persistence I might actually become one too.

What’s the most recent book you’ve read that gave you a similar feeling as reading those early books?

I adored The Labors of Hercules Beal by Gary Schmidt and Kate DiCamillo’s The Beatryce Prophecy. I would have devoured them as a kid.

What are you working on now that’s keeping you creatively engaged?

I’ve been working on a new middle grade cotemporary for some time, now. I’m also writing some bad poetry – which helps with the writing, since it rattles my inner perfectionist a little bit.

Thank you for your time! Where can we find you and inquire about things like school visits and what’s coming next?

My website:  www.patriciabaileyauthor.com is probably the best place. I’m pretty hit and miss on socials, but you can find me at:  @patriciabailey_author on Instagram and @pbailey.bsky.social

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Interview with Author and Podcaster Jonathan Rosen

By on February 12, 2026   /   Articles, Author Interviews   /   Leave a comment

I’ve known Jonathan Rosen for almost a decade, but there’s some disagreement on how we met. Jonathan claims it was at a photoshoot for People magazine, where I interviewed him for the “Sexiest Man Alive” cover. Jonathan further maintains that he beat out Zac Efron and Idris Elba for the honor, and that the men were so distraught, Annie Leibovitz needed three assistants and a bottle of Jameson’s to calm them down.

I won’t bother to tell you the real story, because it’s not nearly as entertaining (😀), but I will say this: Jonathan Rosen is a dear friend and former Mixed-Up Files member, and I’m delighted to talk to him about his career as a writer, podcaster, blogger, and literary agent. So, without further ado…

Heeeeere’s Jonathan Rosen!

MR: Thanks so much for joining us today, Jonathan. We’ve missed you at the Mixed-Up Files, but I know you’ve been busy. Let’s start with your writing life. Can you tell readers what you’ve been working on these days?

 JR: For the record, Zac Efron was inconsolable after I beat him for the title, but that’s all in the past and I feel guilty for rehashing it. But it happened. As far as writing goes, I’m in a mix of things now. I’m working on a middle-grade novel as well as a couple of things for adults. A romcom and a nonfiction.

Pop Culture Retro

MR: In addition to writing, you’re the co-host of the popular podcast, Pop Culture Retro, which celebrates past trends in music, fashion, TV, movies, and more.  How did you first got involved with the podcast? Also, what attracts you to pop culture from the ’70s, ’80s, and ’90s?

JR: I’ve always had a love of Pop Culture. I was a movie and TV kid. A huge viewer. Always read entertainment books on the history of cinema and show business. I grew up watching old shows from the ’50s, ’60s, and ’70s as well. I moved around a lot as a kid, so went to the movies. You didn’t need anyone to go to the movies.

As far as the podcast goes, it happened almost by accident. I was doing interviews with editors and agents for MUF and would usually ask them what their favorite childhood movie was. A couple of people said Escape to Witch Mountain. A friend of mine, Jan Eldredge, reached out to me and said that she was friends with Ike Eisenmann, who starred in Witch Mountain. I asked to interview him for MUF, and he graciously accepted. I became friendly with Ike, and eventually suggested that we do a podcast. It was a good dynamic, since Ike had been in the business, and I was a huge, and I’d like to think knowledgeable, fan.

We began interviewing people who had appeared in many shows and films from when I was a kid, and it was surreal to me. If I had told kid-me that I’d be interviewing people that I grew up watching, I would never have believed it. One of the people we interviewed, a friend of Ike’s was Moosie Drier. He had also had been in many beloved shows and films when he was a kid, including Oh God!, Laugh-In, The Bob Newhart Show, and many others. When Ike eventually stopped doing the show to focus on other things, Moosie agreed to take over, and I’ve had a blast straight through. We’re now good friends.

Rubbing Elbows with the Stars

MR: As a follow-up, you’ve interviewed dozens of iconic celebrities for the show, including Tiffany, Hal Linden, Morgan Fairchild, Mason Reese, Christopher Knight from The Brady Bunch, Audrey Landers from Dallas, Willie Aames from Eight Is Enough, the stars from Little House on the Prairie, and many more. Of all the celebs you’ve chatted with, which ones stand out the most?

JR: I’m not just saying this, but I actually enjoy every interview. I’m a fan, and I enjoy hearing behind-the-scenes stories. But if you want me to focus on one, I’ll answer–and also give the reason. For me, it was Meeno Peluce who was also a big star when he was a kid. He was in the TV show Voyagers, the time-travel show that also starred the late Jon-Erik Hexum. Voyagers was on for only one season, but it was my favorite show. I loved it, and it was one of the first shows I remember being really upset about when it was cancelled. I had gone back and watched the series many times since then, and when Meeno came on, it brought me back to my childhood.

Cher: The Icon… the Legend… the Fantasy

MR: Last celebrity question, and it’s a deeply personal one. What’s the deal with Cher? Not only are you her biggest fan, but you’ve also asked her to appear on Pop Culture Retro at least 365 times. She hasn’t said yes (yet), but do you think she will? Also, what is it about Cher that resonates with you so profoundly? I am being dead serious here.

JR: Okay, I LOVE Cher! And I asked a LOT more than 365 times. She DID answer me once. I asked for an interview daily for a while, and at one point she answered, “What interview??” I think she got confused, thinking she was actually scheduled for an interview.

But back to her. She was the first celebrity crush I had as a kid. The first celebrity poster I had on my wall. Others had the Farrah poster. I had Cher. Love her films, love her music, and I love the persona she has. Just an icon.

The Jewish Lens

MR: Pop Culture Retro” isn’t your only podcast. You’re also the host of The Jewish Lens, which covers themes such as Jewish identity, cultural challenges, and social issues, with episodes featuring such topics as antisemitism, Holocaust education, and the impact of Jewish culture in various industries. I know that your Jewish identity is integral to who you are as a person. Can you share your thoughts on what inspired you to create this podcast, and what it means to you?

JR: October 7th happened. I felt helpless. I saw Jew hate skyrocket and felt like I wanted to do something. And part of what I do is interview people. I wanted to give a platform to Jewish voices. I’ve had on authors, sports figures, movie people, activists, politicians, etc. It really is just a place where I want to give a place for Jews to speak. I don’t always agree with my guests, or necessarily share all opinions, but I like that there’s conversation, and giving a place to share a Jewish voice.

Substack: Platform of Choice

MR: You’ve also created a Substack recently. Can you tell readers more about it?

 JR: Lately, Substack has been the social media platform where I’ve spent the most time. I had intended to do a lot on writing, and using my experience as an author and former literary agent, and I still will talk about publishing from my lens. But so far, my Substack veered off. I talk a lot about Jew hate, and the Jewish experience socially, as well as in publishing.

Adventures in Agenting

MR: In addition to writing and podcasting, you’ve worked as a literary agent. What was that experience like for you? Also, what advice would you give to both agented and querying writers?

JR: I am an admirer of whoever is an agent. It’s not something I enjoyed at all. I say it often. No author is happy unless you sell them, and in publishing, there are a lot more non-sells than sells. It can be frustrating, and I knew that from the author side as well. I also put so much time into it, that I was seriously neglecting my own writing. I had sales, which I’m happy I could help make someone’s publishing dream come true, but I’m happy to be doing something else. As far as advice, I will be posting a lot of it on my Substack, so check there. 😊

Jonathan’s Writing Process

MR: What’s your writing process like, Jonathan? Are you a plotter or a pantser? Also, do you have a specific writing routine?

JR: I usually plot extensively. I plot every detail. But with that being said, Night of the Living Cuddle Bunnies and its sequel, From Sunset to Sunrise, were really more of an example of being a pantser. So, you never know.

No Jonathan Rosen interview is complete without a CHER LIGHTNING ROUND, so…

Favorite Cher song? I like so many, but “Just Like Jesse James” is the song I’ve kept on repeat more than any other.

Favorite Cher movie? Moonstruck, but I also like Witches of Eastwick a LOT!

Favorite Cher hairstyle? I can’t answer that. It’s like choosing between your children.

Favorite Cher outfit? I do have one, but this is a site dedicated to children’s books, so will pass. [Oh boy… I knew it would come to this 😂. –MR]

Favorite Cher quote? “Yes, Jonathan Rosen, I’d be delighted to come on for an interview!” (Okay, to be fair, she hasn’t said this one yet, but she will, and it’ll be my favorite quote.)

Sonny Bono or Gregg Allman? Can I say Jonathan Rosen? Between those two, you have to go with Sonny, but once I meet Cher in person, I think it’s going to be a foregone conclusion to have my name listed there.

You’re stranded on a desert island with Cher, with only three items in your possession. What are they? Why would I need anything else if I had Cher on an island??

MR: Thanks for stopping by the chat, Jonathan. It was a real pleasure!

JR: Always a pleasure, Melissa! (You can now stop threatening me to do the interview.)

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Author Interview – Anna James – Alice with a Why

By on February 9, 2026   /   Author Interviews, kidlit, New Releases   /   1 Comment
Alice With a Why by #1 New York Times bestselling author Anna James (Pages & Co., Chronicles of Whetherwhy), illustrated by Matthew Land. AVAILABLE EVERYWHERE BOOKS ARE SOLD!

cover of Alice with a Why featuring a nest with book print in the middle with a cutout of the main character AlycePicture of Author Anna James - woman with long curly red hair

In this enchanting standalone retelling of Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland, Alice’s granddaughter, Alyce—with a Y—finds herself tumbling down into a Wonderland at war. The once-whimsical world is now divided between the Sun King and the Queen of the Moon, and it’s up to Alyce, guided by familiar characters like the Mad Hatter and the Cheshire Cat, to restore balance and find her way home.
As Kirkus raves, “This homage sparkles. Delightful in every way.” A pitch-perfect blend of literary nostalgia and fresh adventure, Alice With a Why both honors Lewis Carroll’s classic and reimagines it for a new generation.

 

Tell us why you decided to revisit Alice in Wonderland? Why was this story so inspiring for you?

I’ve always been fascinated by the original book – it’s such an important book for children’s literature and there aren’t many books that are as foundational to the collective imagination. The mix of wordplay and nonsense with so many iconic and beloved characters make it a really fun world to play in, but the relative lack of plot in the original allows a lot of space to create your own stories within Wonderland. 

I really enjoyed your mix of old characters (from the original Alice in Wonderland) with the new. How did you go about deciding who would be included from the original story and also what might compliment them with the new characters?

So firstly, I knew I wanted to only use characters that appeared in Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland (as opposed to Through the Looking Glass) so I had that list. And some were obvious like the White Rabbit and the Hatter who feel very integral to Wonderland, and I think people would hope to see. I really wanted to use the Caterpillar, but I only worked that out when a literal bookworm ate one of my books of poetry. Seeing all the tracks through the poems gave me the idea to make him a bookworm who has started smoking poetry instead of whatever he was smoking originally…! The main new character is the Fox, to whom my Alyce is sent, and who becomes her guide through Wonderland. This is a key difference between the original and my version, as Alice doesn’t really have anyone helping her; the Fox, while very much of Wonderland and its nonsense, is a steadier presence than anything that exists in the original.

So much of Alice in Wonderland is all the fun language choices, and you’ve captured that same feeling here beautifully. What was your writing process like to capture some of that essence of the original writing in Alice with a Why?

Thank you! This was both the hardest and the most enjoyable part of the whole book. I spent a lot of time just reading and rereading the original, and I also listened to a lot of nonsense poems on audio while wandering around the woods near where I live to try to get into those rhythms. I had a big list of idioms pinned above my desk as inspiration, too. I also really relied on Martin Gardner’s The Annotated Alice, which is a great resource for understanding all of Carroll’s references, so I went back to that often to try to sort of reverse-engineer that Wonderland feel. And then it was just a lot of trial and error—rewriting sentences until they had the right feel.

Some of the most vivid aspects of your story and the original is the setting. I think the setting is so important to your story, and I would love to know how you thought up the different settings in your story?

Wonderland really allows for a lot of flexibility; you can put almost anything in there.

Two of the key settings are the palaces of the Sun King and the Queen of the Moon, who are at war with each other. The Sun King was heavily inspired by Louis XIV of France, who was known as the Sun King and adopted the sun emblem as a symbol of power. He was also the king who transformed the Palace of Versailles and built the Hall of Mirrors, which is, of course, very Wonderland-coded. Accordingly, my Sun King also holds court in a hall of mirrors, although his courtiers are birds.

I took a lot of inspiration from history more generally; the place where Alice and Alyce live is inspired by Wrest Park, a stately home in Bedfordshire, England, that was used as a hospital during World War One.

What do you hope readers will take away from Alice with a Why (despite the ambiguous ending)?

As the last line suggests, I’m a big believer in letting readers take from books what they will but I certainly hope that readers who’ve lost someone will take some comfort from my Alyce’s journey through her grief at losing her father during the war. I think above all, I hope that young readers in particular come away feeling that words and language are a lot of fun. 

What are some of your favorite middle grade novels and why do you like them so much? 

My favourite middle grade author is Diana Wynne Jones who writes brilliantly quirky fantasy middle grade. My favourite classic is probably Anne of Green Gables, I think Anne Shirley is perhaps the greatest fictional creation of all time. More recently I’ve enjoyed reading Impossible Creatures by Katherine Rundell, Dragonborn by Struan Murray and Greenwild by Pari Thomson. 

Now that your book is out in the world, what’s the next step for you?

As we speak, I’m currently on tour in the U.S. to talk about the book. I love touring and meeting readers and booksellers! Once I’m home, I’ll be editing the third book in my Chronicles of Whetherwhy series (the second one is coming out in the spring in the U.S.), and then beginning to draft in earnest my second Wonderland book! I always wanted to write two to mirror the two Wonderland novels that Carroll wrote, so I’m excited to get properly started on that. I’m also working on my debut adult novel, a rom-com called Good Fortunes, inspired by Pride and Prejudice and coming out in spring 2027!

Is there anything else you want to share about Alice with a Why for our audience of teachers, librarians, and middle grade authors?

Alice With a Why is rooted in a deep love and admiration for the original, which I hope shows. I also hope that readers who already have a relationship with Wonderland enjoy returning there, and that readers who haven’t yet find a bit of magic there and are inspired to seek out Carroll’s original two books.

AVAILABLE EVERYWHERE BOOKS ARE SOLD!
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