We Need Diverse Middle Grade

Thinking Outside the Box: WNDMG Summer 2026 Recommendations Summer is the perfect time to unwind and relax. This is true for parents, children, teachers, and students alike! So while we rest our minds, it’s best to try thinking outside the box and finding time to discover some unconventional and lighthearted reads. What am I referring to, you ask? Graphic novels! This summertime post is dedicated to graphic novels, illustrated chapter books, anthologies, online magazines, and all things unexpected. The push for more illustrated middle grade reads and graphic novels is an excellent way to get our kids reading and falling in love with the stories they discover. Check out this list of upcoming (or recently released) stories!  Descriptions are pulled directly from the books, so you’ll see why these stories will automatically draw you in.   Inbetweens Faith Erin Hicks. First Second, Released Mar. 31 ($22.99, ISBN 978-1-250-83875-9) A new tween graphic novel by bestselling author Faith Erin Hicks. Perfect...

Let’s welcome Crystal Allen to the Middle Grade Mixed-Up Files! She’s written five books for middle-graders, including The Magnificent Mya Tibbs series. Join us as she dishes on writing, her career and other fun stuff. Read on!   You were born in a military hospital in Germany. How long did you live in Germany before moving to the States? Yes! My father was in the Army and was stationed for training at an Army base in Kitzingen, Germany. I was only there long enough to be born and ready to travel back to the States. What are you working on...

Author Interview – Seema Yasmin I’m so excited to be able to introduce you to author Seema Yasmin today. We are going to be talking about the start of her new series, Muslim Mavericks, spotlighting actress and comedian Maysoon Zayid, and launching from Salaam Reads / Simon and Schuster Kids on February 10, 2026. I am excited to discuss this series with Seema and encourage everyone to buy a copy for themselves and their classrooms and libraries.   About MAYSOON ZAYID, THE GIRL WHO CAN CAN: Description taken from online: From the prolific Pulitzer Prize–nominated Muslim reporter Dr. Seema Yasmin...

When we embark upon our journey as storytellers, we become part of the writing community at large. Each of us seeks to build relationships with not only our audiences, but also long to engage with other creatives across multiple mediums. As middle-grade authors, it is so important for us to stay connected with our readers and understand life through their eyes. People make sense of the world around them based on their own lived experiences, but if I have learned anything from my kids, it’s that the younger generation has just as much to offer us as we have to...