Debut middle grade author Susan Lubner stopped by to tell us a little about how she came to write her novel “The Upside of Ordinary”. She’s also giving away an advanced reader’s copy to one lucky reader.
Take one missing uncle, a lucky skull ring, a run-away tarantula, lots of pickles, and an “ordinary” family. Put it all together and you have my debut middle grade novel. The Upside of Ordinary is about eleven-year-old Jermaine— so enamored with the idea of becoming famous that she decides to make a reality TV show about her family. The inspiration for this story came out of my own fascination with reality TV…not so much by those who watch the reality shows, but by the many who give up their privacy (and sometimes dignity!) to participate in one. One of the things that makes The Upside of Ordinary special to me is that it is my first middle grade novel. But I also love the main character’s resolve mixed with her naiveté and the fact that even though Jermaine finds the idea of fame to be so glamorous and appealing, she eventually discovers what’s simple, but very special, about her own life.
Thanks, Susan! Due on shelves October 1, you can win an advanced copy n0w by leaving a comment below.
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Looks fantastic. Would love to read it!
Looking forward to reading this. I love the title.
This is a great idea for a novel. I can see students really getting into the story.
Sounds like a great story!
The number of students I have who think they want to be on reality tv scares me. I’d love a copy!
This idea is a fascinating one…thinking of the original reality tv family, the Louds, and how they fell apart, I’m curious to see what Susan does with this idea. I’d like to meet Jermaine and learn her perspective. Congrats, Susan, on your debut!
I love this idea . . . and I bet my students will too. Looking forward to reading this one.
This sounds perfectly adorable- and one I’ll have to read with my own daughter, who views fame through rose-colored glasses:)
Congratulations, Susan. I love the title and the mixture of elements in the book. Even though I’d love to win a copy, I have won several books lately and will withdraw my name for the drawing. I wish you all the best. Enjoy your debut showing!
Congratulations, Susan…the book sounds fantastic. Going on my tbr list.
Can’t wait to read this. It sounds great.
Sounds cute!
Sounds like fun!
Congratulations on your debut! It sounds like a fun book — I’m not a big fan of reality shows in general, but, like you, am very intrigued by those who participate in them. This also sounds perfect from my 10.5 year old, who is also enamored with the idea of being famous! Best of luck with this!
Sound like a great read!
Congrats on your debut.