Posts Tagged children’s books

STEM Tuesday– Bridges and Skyscrapers– In the Classroom

By on June 9, 2026   /   Bridges, STEM Tuesday  

For this month’s theme, I read two books about bridges and read/wrote two books about skyscrapers. Two of these books were on this months book list and two were “bonus” books. Here’s what I read/wrote.

blue book cover of "Skyscraper" by Lynn Curlee, featuring a vintage-style illustration of the Chrysler building

Skyscraper

by Lynn Curlee

Skyscraper is presented in picture book format and includes beautiful illustrations. It follows the history of skyscrapers in general and then focuses on specific, noteworthy skyscrapers. Through this history, Skyscraper explores advances in design, construction, and materials that facilitated the building of the world’s tallest structures. This book is a bit older, so some of the later information is a bit outdated.

 

The Bridge: How the Roeblings Connected Brooklyn to New York

by Peter J. Tomasi, illustrated by Teo Duvall

If you like graphic novels and want to fully immerse yourself in Washington and Emily Roebling’s story, read The Bridge. This book follows the design and construction of the Brooklyn Bridge, including the politics and intrigue surrounding it. The book includes details about the ground-breaking processes used to construct the bridge, as well as the health and safety issues these new techniques raised. As Washington struggled with his health, his wife Emily took over the on-site oversite of the bridge, raising additional issues to be overcome.

Bonus Books:

Engineering the Eiffel Tower book cover.Engineering the Eiffel Tower

by Janet Slingerland

This book covers the design and construction of the Eiffel Tower, including the controversy surrounding the tower when it was built. It includes a look at Gustav Eiffel, the tower’s creator, including important life events that led up to his building of the Eiffel Tower.  At the end are a list of fast facts, as well as a set of questions to answer based on the book.

 

Book cover for Golden Gate: Building the Mighty BridgeGolden Gate: Building the Mighty Bridge

by Elizabeth Partridge, illustrated by Ellen Heck

Golden Gate: Building the Mighty Bridge is a picture book that follows a lighthouse keeper’s family as the Golden Gate Bridge is constructed right in front of them. Each two-page spread includes an illustration that follows the bridge from its concept through its construction.

 

As always, there are lots of different things that can be done with these books.

There are lots of great museums/sites to visit. Here are a few:

Here are some websites and activities to explore:

Here are a few other ideas for exploring bridges and skyscrapers.

Create a Timeline

Skyscraper follows the design and construction of key skyscrapers through history. Put together your own skyscraper timeline. This is great as a group activity.

For each skyscraper, illustrate or print a picture to show on the timeline. Make sure the scale is the same for each skyscraper so everyone can see how their heights compare to one another.

Do some research on the architect, building materials, construction processes, cost, and other interesting facts about the building. Consider including breakthroughs in materials, understanding, or other critical events on the timeline.

Explore a Local Marvel

Pick an interesting local bridge or skyscraper. Think about how to search for information about its design and construction. Do some online searching, using keywords like “design” and “construction” along with the name of the structure. Visit a local library to see if there is information there about it. Meet the research librarian there to get some help with the research. If possible, visit the structure in person. Some structures provide informational tours.

Think about how to present the information found about the structure:

  • Write a “biography” of the structure. Think about how to tell its story, using inspiration from this month’s books. Include photos found during the research.
  • Put together a “Get to Know Me” poster for the structure. Include basic information and fun facts. Think of fun ways to describe the height/length and weight of the structure – for instance, how many giraffes tall is it and how many school buses does it weigh?
  • Make a graphic novel or assemble a photo essay about the construction of the structure.

Janet Slingerland has written over 2 dozen books for young readers. To find out more about Janet and her books, check out her website: http://janetsbooks.com

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Interview with Author/Illustrator Maddie Frost

By on June 3, 2026   /   Articles, Author Interviews  
Today, let’s give a hearty Mixed-Up Files welcome to Maddie Frost. An award-winning author and illustrator, Maddie has been praised as a “powerhouse creator,” making over a dozen books for kids. Her first middle-grade novel, Really Rubie, which Kirkus hailed as: “Humorous, frank, and guaranteed to reassure,” is out now from Aladdin.

Really Rubie: A Summary

Eleven-year-old Rubie Fox can’t wait to go to sleepaway camp for the first time with her best friend, Riley. She and Riley will be at Camp Pineview for an entire month, and Riley’s crush, Owen Griffon, will be across the lake at the boys’ camp. But when Riley can’t go to camp because she broke her ankle, Rubie has to go by herself. How can she survive without Riley? But camp might be more eventful, and more exciting, than Rubie ever thought, including her first-ever crush on a boy.

Q&A with Maddie Frost

MR: Welcome to the Mixed-Up Files, Maddie. Huge congrats on the publication of Really Rubie. I went to sleepaway camp as a kid, so of course I loved your book. I gobbled it up in two sittings!

MF: That’s amazing. I hope it didn’t give you any gas.

MR: Um… 🙂 

Getting Campy with Rubie

MR: Your book is based on your own experience at sleepaway camp. How is Rubie’s experience similar to yours? How is it different? Also, what are the similarities and differences between you and Rubie?

MF: The biggest difference between me and Rubie’s camp experience is that my best friend came with me. Looking back, I always sort of wondered what kind of experience I would have had if I went alone. Rubie was the product of that curiosity.

All the fears, insecurities, and discomfort Rubie goes through at camp, I felt too. It was the first time I had left home for that long, and same for Rubie. It was like being flung onto another planet (with tons of woodchips). We both realized that a whole other world exists beyond the bubble of home. Amazing, and terrifying.

Rubie and I are both emotional and anxious, and we both try to find the humor in life’s struggles. Humor has always been a coping mechanism for me, especially in art. Rubie’s diary entries and doodles reflect that too. But we’re also super aware, and we take in everything all at once. Our feelings, our friends feelings, vibes and moods, exciting moments, awkward moments, people’s energy. I think all great writing comes from being hyper-aware to life.

MR: As a follow-up, what advice would you give to 11-year-old Maddie?

MF: “Hey Maddie, it’s Maddie from the future. Listen, I know it’s rough seas out there in middle school. You’re probably feeling A LOT of things right now and it’s okay. What doesn’t make sense now will later. I promise. Oh, BTW, you turn it all into a book series. I know, right?! Keep going, you got this.

Dear Diary

MR: Really Rubie is written in diary form. What informed this stylistic decision? Did you keep diaries as a tween?

MF: Um, of course I did! I don’t know how you didn’t as a tween girl. There’s so much going on internally and you CAN’T talk to your parents about it. No way! A diary was the safest place to let my thoughts and feelings out. I’ve always wanted to try and make a middle-grade diary. My drawing style and personality lends itself well to this age group. I’m forever a tween at heart. I wrote in a diary at camp, so there was some “research” to be done before I started outlining this book.

I have always considered myself an artist first, author second. I came to writing books by illustrating them. The two art forms have operated like best friends throughout my career. They riff off of each other. What one lacks, the other makes up for. So I knew that if I wrote a middle grade novel, there 100% would be art. Ergo, a diary was the perfect format for me. Also it’s just so fun to write a stream of chaotic conscious and time travel back into my eleven-year-old brain.

Tween Friendships

MR: After Rubie’s BFF, Riley, breaks her ankle and has to withdraw from camp, Rubie is forced to navigate the experience on her own. Did something similar happen to you at Rubie’s age? Also, what were you trying to say about the nature of tween friendships?

MF: Often times, we stay “close to the pack” because we feel safe. But there isn’t much personal growth that happens when we are afraid to venture outside of our comfort zone. If I look back, my biggest personal growth happened when I was EXTREMELY uncomfortable; aka, trying anything new alone. There’s a big world out there, and when you’re a kid, it’s sooo hard to grasp that. Friendships will grow and change because you grow and change. It’s all part of your process and progress as a human. I wish what happened to Rubie happened to me much earlier in my life. I wish I had made a friend like Eliza back then, who proved that the Universe will always meet you halfway.

The Art of Creating a Graphic Novel

MR: In addition to writing the novel, you created the illustrations. What was the process like for you? Did you do both at the same time or add the illustrations later? Also, how does being an artist influence your writing—and vice-versa?

MF: I write the manuscripts for all my books before I do any art. This goes for picture books and graphic novels too. If the story stinks, it doesn’t matter how good the art is. Kind of like if the plot of a movie is horrible but the actors are award-worthy. Does not matter. The writer in me always trusts the artist in me. I never try to avoid writing something for the sake of having to draw it. Unless of course it’s something I don’t like drawing. Like large crowds, or realistic horses.

Jane of All Trades

MR: In addition to Rubie, you have written and illustrated a slew of popular picture books. What prompted your decision to write for a middle-grade audience? Did the creative process differ from your experience as a picture-book author/illustrator?

MF: I’m always craving the next challenge. The same thing happened when I went from picture books to graphic novels. I asked myself if I could do it, and then I tried. I’m not afraid of failing, so it makes the attempt super relaxed. Rubie came from a combination of that, plus being bored with the genre I had been working in for almost a decade. As artists, sometimes it feels like we need to put ourselves in a box to get more “recognized.” Like, oh this girl is a mystery writer, that guy only does THIS type of graphic novel. Ugh, it’s so suffocating as a creator to limit yourself. I don’t want to be type-casted! I want to be a Jane of all Trades, Master of all. I mean, all women are, right? Wink, wink.

Sharing the (School Visit) Love

MR: Rumor has it you enjoy doing school visits. Can you tell MUF readers more about this? 

 MF: The rumor is true. I love making it to the other side and sharing my work with readers. Authors work in a hole, we need the reward of humans engaging with us and our stories. We also have sensitive egos. It’s the best feeling when you connect with an audience.

Maddie’s “Aha!” Moment

MR: What has your path to publication been like? Smooth sailing or bumpy seas?

MF: My road to publication was an unexpected one, let’s say that. I really never thought about it when I was younger. I knew there we authors and illustrators that made books, but had no idea that it could be a career choice. I went to college for Animation because I loved cartoons. I’m a 90’s kid and grew up watching Nickelodeon in it’s prime. While I was there, I won a freelance contest to illustrate a picture book for a local hotel. It paid nothing but it was an aha moment for an alternate job path. It was everything I loved about cartoons, just in book format. After I graduated, I wanted to work at Disney. But being a New Englander, I had no idea how one does that. Do you just call up Mickey Mouse? “Yo, Mickey, you got a job for me?” (Said in Boston accent.)

So I started teaching elementary art until I couldn’t ignore the itch to make my own art any longer. I followed a few book illustrators on social media and reached out to find out how to get an agent. Long story long, I got an agent and took on small, boring book projects for babies (literally) while honing my craft, and my voice. I worked my way from the bottom up with zero training or direction. The only thing I knew I had to do was work hard. And I haven’t stopped working hard.

The Magic of Writing

MR: What is your writing and illustrating process like, Maddie? Do you have a specific routine or word-count goals? Any rituals? Also, are you a plotter or a pantser?

MF: Writing process for Rubie always takes place somewhere in the morning after my daughter goes to school.  I can’t write Rubie on anything else but my tablet (I have a laptop and computer) but it MUST be on the tablet or the magic isn’t there. So weird, I know. I think I just like the sound of my keyboard, it must make me write better. Tap, tap, tap.

For illustrating, I work in my office at all/any times of the day on my computer. I make my art in Photoshop with a Wacom and stylus pen. No specific routine, since I have a three year old. What is a routine again? And when I’m cleaning it means I’m procrastinating.

What’s Next for Maddie

MR: Really Rubie is the first in a series. Would you mind sharing a bit about what readers can expect in the books that follow?

MF: In Really Rubie book two, she turns twelve and starts sixth grade. There’s a new girl in town and also the person Riley has spent half the summer with in secret. She also happens to be super annoying. Meanwhile, Mom is acting a little *sus* and Rubie is convinced she’s dating. I don’t want to say too much, but there’s a big art scandal, a new crush, breaking and entering a classroom, more sneaking out at night, and a whole lot more awkward drama.

Lightning Round!

Yellow graphic lightning bolt

MR: Last thing: No MUF interview is complete without a lightning round, so…

Preferred writing snack? Is coffee a snack?

 Coffee or tea? Coffee because it’s a snack?

 Zombie apocalypse: Yea or nay? Live it? Nay. Write it? Yea.

Favorite camp activity? Making friendship bracelets.

Most embarrassing moment at camp? Oh no not an MEM! Okay, this is true. I took sailing at the camp Rubie is based on, and one time I capsized the boat and it completely turtled over. Like it went upside down in the water. The “Hot Ben” in my situation had to come out on a motor boat and rescue me. Mega embarrassment viiiiibes.

 Superpower? Flying

Favorite place on earth? My home. And maybe Disney World I guesssss.

 You’re stranded on a desert island, with only three items in your possession. What are they? A sketchbook, pencil, and water. What more do you need?

MR: Thank you for chatting with me, Maddie—and congratulations on the publication of Really Rubie. I thoroughly enjoyed it, and I know MUF readers will too.

MF: Thanks for having me! Happy Reading! <3 Maddie

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STEM Tuesday– Bridges and Skyscrapers– Book List

By on June 2, 2026   /   Bridges, STEM Tuesday  

 

 

 

 

 

 

Bridges and skyscrapers are some of the most incredible structures humans have ever built. Bridges connect people across rivers and valleys, while skyscrapers stretch high into the sky and shape city skylines. These giant structures are engineering marvels that combine creativity, science, math, and teamwork to solve amazing challenges.

 

Illustrated nonfiction book cover showing bridges around the world and explaining how they are built and used to connect places.

 

Bridges written by Magda Garguláková and illustrated by Jakub Bachorík
A beautifully illustrated nonfiction book about bridges around the world. It explains how bridges are built and why they are important, while showing different designs and styles. Readers learn how bridges connect places and help people travel more easily. It’s a clear, engaging book for curious young learners.

 

Cover of a graphic novel that explains how engineers design and build bridges across rivers and valleys using science and problem-solving.

Science Comics series:
Bridges: Engineering Masterpieces written and illustrated by Dan Zettwoch
Skyscrapers: The Height of Engineering written and illustrated by John Kerschbaum
The first graphic novel is a detailed and fun look at how bridges are designed and built. It shows how engineers solve problems to connect places across rivers and valleys.The second graphic novel explores how tall buildings are made and why they can reach such amazing heights. It explains the science and teamwork behind modern city skylines.

 

 

cover art of an illustrated true story of the Brooklyn Bridge, focusing on the engineers, challenges, and construction of the suspension bridge.

 

The Bridge: How the Roeblings Connected Brooklyn to New York written by Peter J. Tomasi and illustrated by Teo Hernandez DuVall
This book tells the true story of a famous suspension bridge that connects two major cities. It follows the engineers and family behind its design and construction. The story shows the challenges, danger, and determination needed to complete such a huge project. Illustrations help bring this important piece of engineering history to life.

 

 

 

 

cover of a nonfiction book that explains how bridges, buildings, and other structures are built using simple, engaging engineering explanations.

 

How Was That Built? The Stories Behind Awesome Structures written by Roma Agrawal and illustrated by Katie Hickey
A fun and engaging nonfiction book that explains how amazing structures are built around the world. It breaks down complex engineering ideas in a simple, kid-friendly way. Readers learn the stories behind bridges, buildings, and other impressive creations. Bright illustrations help make the science clear and exciting.

 

 

 

National Geographic – Skyscrapers written by Libby Romerocover of a nonfiction book (reading Level 3 by National Geographic Kids) with photographs showing the tallest skyscrapers and explaining how they are engineered and constructed.
A fascinating nonfiction book that explores the tallest buildings in the world. It explains how skyscrapers are designed and built using science and engineering. Readers learn about the challenges of building upward in crowded cities. Striking photographs help bring these impressive structures to life.

 

 

 

 

illustrated book cover of "Where Is the Brooklyn Bridge?"

WhoHQ series
Where is the Brooklyn Bridge? written by Megan Stine and illustrated by John Hinderliter
Where is the Empire State Building (WhoHQ Series) written by Janet B. Pascal and illustrated by Daniel Colon
These two books tell the story of the Brooklyn Bridge and the Empire State Building. Part of the popular WhoHQ series, they feature easy-to-read text and a straightforward, accessible structure, combining history and STEM as they explore the cultural significance of these two American landmarks.

 

 

 

To Walk the Sky: How Iroquois Steelworkers Helped Build Towering Citiewritten by Patricia Morris Buckley and illustrated by E. B. Lewisillustrated book cover of "To Walk The Sky," featuring an Iroquois man walking on a steel beam high above a cityscape
This lyrical nonfiction picture book tells the history of the skywalkers– Native American ironworkers who helped build bridges and skyscrapers all over North America. It honors their remarkable contributions to famous landmarks–including work on the Golden Gate Bridge, Lincoln Center, Sears Tower, and more–as well as their resilience in the face of terrible tragedies: the collapse of the Quebec City Bridge in 1907, and more recently, the collapse of the Twin Towers on September 11.

 

 

 

 

 

book cover of "Why Humans Build Up," featuring illustrated skyscrapers in a fictional cityscape

Why Humans Build Up: The Rise of Towers, Temples and Skyscrapers written by Gregor Craigie and illustrated by Kathleen Fu
Gregor Craigie and Kathleen Fu take readers on a world tour of tall buildings, from the Lighthouse of Alexandria to the Central Park Tower. Each chapter is organized as a different answer to the titular question, “Why [do] humans build up?” Explore how social factors, from religion to industrial competition to environmental sustainability, have pushed the boundaries of what is possible in architecture and engineering.

 

 

 

Skyscrapers!: With 25 Science Projects for Kids written by Elizabeth Schmermund and illustrated by Mike Crosiercover image of the activity book "Skyscrapers" showing an image of a beaver wearing a baseball cap and looking up at a tall building
Bridges! With 25 Science Projects for Kids written by Jennifer Swanson and illustrated by Bryan Stone
This pair of activity books from Nomad Press, part of the four-book Explore Engineering series, is full of engaging activities that explore fundamental STEM concepts. Sprinkled with fun facts and key vocabulary terms throughout, each chapter uses inquiry-based learning to guide readers through anchor questions, background information, and hands-on projects.

 

 

 

book cover of "Skyscraper" by Lynn Curlee, featuring an illustration of two buildings against a blue sky

 

Skyscraper written by Lynn Curlee
With gorgeous illustrations on every page, this book offers a deep dive into the history of skyscrapers—and the architects who designed them. The author, an art historian, sheds a unique light on the technological advances and design decisions that have made each of the featured buildings so memorable.

 

 

 

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This month’s STEM Tuesday book list was prepared by:

Author Lydia Lukidis

 

Lydia Lukidis is an award-winning author of 60+ trade and educational books for children. Her titles include UP, UP HIGH: The Secret Poetry of Earth’s Atmosphere (Capstone, 2025), DANCING THROUGH SPACE: Dr. Mae Jemison Soars to New Heights (Albert Whitman, 2024), and DEEP, DEEP, DOWN: The Secret Underwater Poetry of the Mariana Trench (Capstone, 2023) which was a Crystal Kite winner for the Canada and North America division, Forest of Reading Silver Birch Express Honor, a Cybils Award nominee, and winner of the Dogwood Readers Award. A science enthusiast from a young age, Lydia now incorporates her studies in science and her everlasting curiosity into her books.  Another passion of hers is fostering a love for children’s literacy through the writing workshops she regularly offers in elementary schools across Quebec with the Culture in the Schools program. For more information, please visit www.lydialukidis.com.

 

 

author Callie Dean

 

 

Callie Dean is a researcher, writer, and musician living in Shreveport, LA. She is the author of Marvelous Mistakes: Accidents That Made History (October 2026, Beaming Books) and Unstoppable Song (2027, Lerner/Carolrhoda). For more information, please visit https://calliebdean.com.

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