Showing posts with label Aladdin. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Aladdin. Show all posts

Monday, August 24, 2026

Middle Grade Monday: Art Attack



* Book 3 in the Sherlock Society series * 
Ever since their last case got media attention, people have been asking The Sherlock Society for help with their cases. They set up a website and start going through the proposals. The case they decide to take comes with a giant prize tag - if successful.

They're to unmask the vigilante graffiti artist Funky Monkey in hopes that the artist will paint a mural for a local business. The group decides that they will bring the proposal to the artist and Funky Monkey can decide from there.

Of course, there is a deadline, and other teams might be working on the same goal. Can the Sherlock Society figure out this newest mystery?
My Thoughts: I love this series and this book was an excellent addition to the series. I'm glad the FBI guys were back - but I would have liked more with them. They are so funny. The spirit week was kind of funny. I loved learning about graffiti and artists. I really love Alex and Zoe's grandfather. He's a gem. The banter between him and Lina about technology is adorable and funny. It does make me miss my grandfather. The nod to TOAST was great - readers of the Framed trilogy will get a kick out of that. All the twists and turns made me want to keep reading and not put the book down. Looking forward to many more books in this series!

Cover Thoughts: I love how the flashlights highlight the art
Source: Book sent for review
Library Recommendation: The Sherlock Society series is a must have series for your school and public library! 

Publication Date: September 8

Monday, May 4, 2026

Middle Grade Review: No Way Never Sisters


Roxy and Meli couldn't be more different. They're not friends - at all. But their parents are in love and are engaged. Roxy and Meli can't believe how fast everything is changing. This summer, they all move in to a new house together. Life isn't the same and they're not happy. They come up with a brilliantly terrible idea. They're going to split up their parents and then their lives will return back to normal.
My Thoughts: I really enjoyed this book; I wanted to like it more but I just...felt badly for the parents. I didn't feel much sympathy for the girls, even though their lives were being upended. There were so many misunderstandings between them that made them unhappy with each other.  I did like how they started to trust each other and balance each other out. I loved the Benjis and how they were so happy to hang out together. Meli has scoliosis and has to wear a brace. Meli's Abuela is super sweet and of course smart. I love how she influenced the girls at the end. 

Cover Thoughts: Cute
Source: My Library
Library Recommendation: A fun family drama filled read, recommended for your school and public library

Monday, April 20, 2026

Middle Grade Review: School for Thieves

 



Tom has been living on the streets for a long time. He had a mentor who used to tell the most outrageous stories, but he passes away. Tom's mentor taught him. Tom passed along that knowledge to other kids. Kids aren't safe on the streets; it's not long before his found family is snatched up and forced into a workhouse. 

Luckily, Tom escaped. And because of that, he's offered an opportunity of a lifetime - a chance to go to school. It's not your average school. This one teaches you how to become criminals and spies. At first, Tom hesitates, but then he realizes that once he learns enough, he can return and rescue his friends. 

But the school has it's own secrets...
My Thoughts: I really enjoyed this one - there were lots of moments of action and danger. There were secrets and betrayals and double crosses. I liked the friendship Tom made. I really love that he didn't forget his found family. This book seems like it's set up for a sequel, but there's no news about another book coming. 

Cover Thoughts: Neat - I love the gold foil
Source: Book sent for review
Library Recommendation: Highly recommended for your school or public library middle grade collection.

Hand this one: readers who like City Spies or Charlie Thorne books

Monday, February 9, 2026

Middle Grade Review: Europa


* Book 7 in the City Spies series * 

There's a chatter of a major attack coming. Tru asks her team to review the evidence. Her adult agents are looking at an attack on London, but the City Spies think it's happening in Paris. They have a way of looking at things a little bit differently. It helps that they're teenagers. Could this be the work of a threat they thought they contained?
My Thoughts: As this is book 7, I don't want to say too much. But I loved it! I loved the moments with Tru - and her puzzles, games, and history. I liked learning more about the history of spies in England. I even learned about art. I love books that make me research, and I did look up some of the art mentioned. This series is fantastic and honestly, I never want it to end. 

Cover Thoughts: Perfect
Source: Book sent for review
Library Recommendation: A must have series for your public and school library's collection. 

* this book comes out tomorrow

Saturday, September 20, 2025

Review: Mindy Kim and the Fun Family Vacation

 

* Book 12 in the Mindy Kim series *
Mindy and her family are going on vacation! She's so excited about. She hopes that vacation time with help relax her Dad and Julie; they've been fighting a lot lately. Jeju Island has so many cool spots; she can't wait to see them all. But traveling with a baby is hard. Mindy gets irritated when Charlie causes the plans to change. Will they have any fun?
My Thoughts: I really love this series - Mindy is so much fun. I love that she's so excited about vacation and all the research she did about the island prior to arrival. I love the relationship between her and Charlie - even though she gets angry and frustrated with him. I hope there are many more books in the Mindy series to come. I want to see their relationship grow as they do. 

Cover Thoughts: Perfect
Source: Book sent for review
Library Recommendation: A must have series for your school and public library collection

Monday, August 11, 2025

Review: Hurricane Heist

 


* Book 2 in the Sherlock Society * 
There's a hurricane coming. School is starting up soon and Alex is worried that it will be the end of the Sherlock Society. The storm brings back memories of Alex's grandfather from 1964. He was helping his father with the hardware store deliveries. They went to a hotel where his Grandfather was friends with the Bell Captain, Doc. 

A movie was being filmed at the hotel. After the storm passed through in 1964, Doc went missing along with several pieces of jewelry. The storm in the current day damage the hotel and a body is discovered. Alex's Grandfather's not surprised when it turns out to be Doc. He knew his friend never stole the jewelry and ran off. But years later, the trail is cold. Doc was the only suspect. Can the Sherlock Society figure out what really happened all those years ago?
My Thoughts: Another winner for James Ponti. This series is fresh and fun - with lots of action and danger. I enjoyed the dual timelines - and how they connected. I tore through this book. I didn't want it to end, but I also couldn't put it down. I love the way this team solves mysteries together - especially how they divide and conquer with research. I adored the new members and can't wait to read more about them. Have the announced book three yet? I hope many more books in this series are planned. 

Cover Thoughts: Fantastic
Source: ARC sent for review
Publication Date: September 2nd
Why I read this: I loved the first book. Plus I love the author's books
Library Recommendation: A must have middle grade series for your school and public library collections
Hand This To: Readers who like Thrillers

Wednesday, July 9, 2025

Picture Book Wednesday: Lily's Dream



Lily is a fairy who's having a hard time learning how to fly. She's trying so hard, but nothing is working. She discovers a fairy house and forms a friendship with a human that just might help.

The illustrations in this book are stunning. I loved the friendship building and the trust moments. I especially loved the author's note where she talked about friendship and mutual respect. 

* this book was sent for review

Monday, March 31, 2025

Middle Grade Review: Tear This Down



Freya has always loved her hometown; but everything changes on the first history assignment in seventh grade. When researching primary documents, Freya discovers that the founding father of the town was sexist. He didn't believe that women should vote or go to school. Reading his words anger Freya. She no longer believes he's worthy of the town respect. In fact, maybe they should tear his statue down in the middle of the town. When Freya and a new friend share their idea, not everyone supports them. In fact, some people are downright rude. Not even her parents think it's a good idea...
My Thoughts: I really loved this book - it also made me really angry (in the best possible way). I loved how Freya had opinions on everything: from the books read in class to crafting classes. I really admired how Freya stood up for her beliefs; she was determined to share them and not be quiet.  I wasn't that brave at her age. I felt bad for Freya. I wanted to give her a giant hug. I loved her new friendship with Callie.  I loved how Freya researched more and found Suffragists in the town's history. Of course I loved Mai, the librarian who helped them find resources and shared ideas. I loved how this book ended; I can't say too much without spoilers... 

Barbara Dee is one of my favorite middle grade writers. I can't wait to see what she writes next. 

Cover Thoughts: Amazing.
Source: Book sent for review
Library Recommendation: A must have book for your school and public library.

Thursday, February 6, 2025

Middle Grade Review: London Calling

 


* Book 6 in the City Spy series * 

Cairo, the newest member of the City Spies, takes the lead when his sister disappears in Istanbul. Determined to save the family of one of their own, the team risks discovery as their search leads them to Rome. Meanwhile, there’s been intel that seems to threaten the royal wedding about to take place in Westminster, bringing the team back to the UK on an official case for MI6. With so much security all over the city, it’s harder than ever for the City Spies to go unnoticed. Will their skills be up to the task? - Summary from the Publisher.

My Thoughts: I don't want to say too much about this book because SPOILERS. But...
Questions are answered
 Stakes are Higher
All the Action
Family Drama
Royal Wedding

I LOVED it!

Here's my favorite line:


* Book sent for review

Monday, January 27, 2025

Review: Away

 


* companion novel to Alone * 

In the middle of the night, people in Colorado are rounded up and told to evacuate. They are loaded up on buses after gathering one bag to take with them. They're not told why they're being forced to leave.

They're bused to former camp, not in use since the Cold War.  They're forced to give up their cell phones and electronics. There a journalist meets a film maker meets a future doctor meets a teen who grew up on a ranch. The four teens form a bond between them. They interview people in the camp. 

Time passes. They still haven't been told the reason behind their evacuation, only that it's not safe for them. Their homes are in the contamination zone. But to the teens, nothing makes sense. They start questioning what they know - but more importantly what they don't know. Could there be something more to the story?
* While this is a companion novel, readers who pick up this book first won't miss out on any story. There is a nod to ALONE, that readers will enjoy if they have read that book.

** There is a cow that dies after giving birth, but all the other animals are fine.

My Thoughts: I loved this book. The formatting was different - poems, media announcements, newspaper write-ups, letters, and screenplay. While this book is long, it's a short read. First because of the format and second because of the tension. I'm so glad Megan Freeman wrote this book - it's all about friendship, big government, and uncovering the truth. I love how these characters gravitated towards each other and became friends. I love how they helped each other through the tough moments and didn't back down. Popcorn is adorable! Make time to read this one!

Cover Thoughts: Awesome
Source: ARC sent for review
Library Recommendation: A must have middle grade novel for your school or public library collection

Release Date: February 11, 2025

Monday, December 23, 2024

Middle Grade Review: Unraveled



While his friends faced their own challenges in Stellarlune, Keefe was in the human world. Where did he go, who did he see…and what shocking secrets were revealed to him? - Summary from the publisher
My Thoughts: This book takes place after the last book - but it's from Keefe's point of view during his time in the human world. I like how he struggled with human moments that are different than what elves do. Lord HunkyHair is one of my favorite characters - because of his humor and wit. There are lots of secrets that's required to keep. I loved the ending and I'm eagerly awaiting for the next installment. 

Cover Thoughts: Cute
Source: Book sent for review
Library Recommendation: A must have series for your school and public libraries. 

Thursday, October 17, 2024

Review: Mindy Kim Big Sister

 


* Book 11 in the Mindy Kim series * 
Mindy Kim's stepmom - Julie is pregnant. The baby is arriving any moment. They want the gender of the baby to be surprised. Mindy isn't sure what to expect. She's been the only child for so long. She asks her friends for advice.

Once the baby arrives, things are hard. The baby cries all the time. But Mindy isn't sure how to help. She wants to play with her brother, but he's too small for most interactions. Can she be the best big sister?
My Thoughts: I love this series. I love Mindy's big heart. I love how she wants to help but isn't sure how. I love how she seeks advice from her friends. The solution she comes up with is super cute. I can't wait to read more about Mindy and her new brother. I hope this series continues for a long time. 

Cover Thoughts: Cute
Source: Book sent for review
Library Recommendation: A must have series for your school or public library.

Monday, September 2, 2024

Author Interview: James Ponti


I'm thrilled to be chatting with James Ponti today!

About the Book:
In the tradition of Nancy Drew, four kids and one grandfather in Miami tackle a decades-old mystery in this first book in the action-packed and funny Sherlock Society middle grade series from New York Times bestselling, Edgar Award–winning author James Ponti! Siblings Alex and Zoe Sherlock take their last name as inspiration when choosing a summer job. After all, starting a detective agency has to be better than babysitting (boring), lawn mowing (sweaty), or cleaning out the attic (boring and sweaty). Their friends Lina, an avid bookworm, and Yadi, an aspiring cinematographer, join the enterprise, and Alex and Zoe’s retired reporter grandfather offers up his sweet aquamarine Cadillac convertible and storage unit full of cold cases. The group’s first target is the long-lost treasure supposedly hidden near their hometown Miami. Their investigation into the local doings of famed gangster Al Capone leads them to a remote island in the middle of the Everglades where they find alarming evidence hinting at corporate corruption. Together with Grandpa’s know-how and the kids’ intelligence—plus some really slick gadgets—can the Sherlock Society root out the conspiracy?

I was lucky enough to get an ARC. You can read my review here. 
(I loved it!)

And I got to meet James at a local(ish) bookstore for the City Spies tour. You can read about that meeting here. 

About the Author:
James Ponti is the New York Times bestselling author of four middle grade book series: The Sherlock Society following a group of young detectives; City Spies, about an unlikely squad of five kids from around the world who form an elite MI6 Spy Team; the Edgar Award–winning Framed! series, about a pair of tweens who solve mysteries in Washington, DC; and the Dead City trilogy, about a secret society that polices the undead living beneath Manhattan. His books have appeared on more than fifteen different state award lists, and he is the founder of a writers group known as the Renegades of Middle Grade. James is also an Emmy–nominated television writer and producer who has worked for many networks including Nickelodeon, Disney Channel, PBS, History, and Spike TV, as well as NBC Sports. He lives with his family in Orlando, Florida. 

Interview:

Did Al Capone really bury one million dollars somewhere in Florida?

 

My understanding is that he actually buried keys to safety deposit boxes. (I eliminated that step to make it just the money so that it would be more immediate.) I also made up the treasure map; but the rest of it is true including the niece having him hypnotized and digging up all the land on the estate. (Funny side note – I planned to include the Capone house as part of the story, but the day I went there to scout and research, it was literally being torn down. It was more than one hundred years old, but they picked that day to make me rewrite the plot. Instead, I have they come there as it’s being torn down)

 

What was your first summer job?

 

My very first one was selling food at Sea World. (I worked at the Snack Encounter, which was right next to the Shark Encounter.) But every summer after that, I worked at Walt Disney World on the Davy Crockett Explorer Canoes. I would stand in the front of a giant canoe, dressed a coonskin cap and tell bad jokes to guests paddling through the summer heat. (“You see that burning cabin over there? That’s where my girlfriend lives. Well, actually we broke up, so she’s just my old flame. She used to work her but she got fired. It burns me up to think about it.”) It was a great job that taught me a ton about comedy writing. I’m still friends with many of my fellow canoers and we greet each other with the call “Yip-yip-yow,” which played on a recorded loop in the back of the Rivers of America.


That's too funny. I love the "Dad" jokes.

 

What fun tidbits of research didn't make it into the book?

 

I hung out with a marine biologist at the University of Miami because the father in the book is a marine biologist at the University of Miami. Late one night, we were with his grad students at the nursery where they try to grow coral and they played Marvin Gaye over loudspeakers to get the coral “in the mood.” I could not figure out a way to work that into the plot.

 

There was another one that I couldn’t figure out, but have since added it to book two. The Bee Gees lived in Miami Beach and when they drove over the Tuttle Causeway, the sound of their tires going over the seams in the road created a rhythm that inspired the beat of the song Jive Talkin’. Originally, it was even title Drive Talkin’ because of where they first heard it.

 

I can't wait for book 2!


Do you have a favorite fictional detective/story?

 

So, so many. My first was Encyclopedia Brown, whose stories inspired me greatly. My favorite author is Michael Connelly and I love his main character, Harry Bosch. My wife and I are addicted to British mystery shows and my favorite detectives there are Christopher Foyle from Foyle’s War, Jimmy Perez from Shetland, and Vera Stanhope from Vera.

 

Which W would you choose to research?

 

I am fascinated by character and personality, so for me it would always be Who.


Thanks for chatting with me! I really loved the first book in The Sherlock Society and I'm looking forward to more. 
 

Monday, August 26, 2024

Middle Grade Review: Framed



* first book in a trilogy *

Florian has just moved to Washington D.C. and finds a new friend in the neighborhood. He teaches his new friend Margaret TOAST (The theory of all small things). They use this theory to impress the FBI when paintings go missing at a museum. Can they solve the case?
My Thoughts: I've been meaning to read this for years and my co-workers been pushing me to read it for just as long. James Ponti is a favorite author of mine. Our copy is frequently checked out of the library, but I grabbed it one day. And I'm so happy I did. I really enjoyed this book; I couldn't put it down. I love the friendship between Florian and Margaret. I love TOAST. I can't wait to read what happens next! 

Cover Thoughts: Fantastic
Source: My Library
Library Recommendation: A must have trilogy for your school and public library.

Monday, August 19, 2024

Author Interview: Gayle Foreman

 


Not Nothing comes out next week and believe me, you're going to want to clear some space in your schedule to read this one!


ABOUT THE BOOK 

To say Alex has had it rough is an understatement. His father’s gone, his mother is struggling with mental health issues, and he’s now living with an aunt and uncle who are less than excited to have him. Almost everyone treats him as though he doesn’t matter at all, like he’s nothing.

So when a kid at school actually tells him he’s nothing, Alex snaps, and gets violent. Fortunately, his social worker pulls some strings and gets him a job at a nursing home for the summer rather than being sent to juvie. There, he meets Josey, the 107-year-old Holocaust survivor who stopped bothering to talk years ago, and Maya-Jade, the granddaughter of one of the residents with an overblown sense of importance.

Unlike Alex, Maya-Jade believes that people care about what she thinks, and that she can make a difference. And when Alex and Josey form an unlikely bond, with Josey confiding in him, Alex starts to believe he can make a difference—a good difference—in the world. If he can truly feel he matters, Alex may be able to finally rise to the occasion of his own life.

My Thoughts: I started this book and couldn't stop reading. I tore through this novel. It made me cry. It made my heart ache. I felt terrible for Alex and all that we went through. I liked how the narrative worked: we learned things slowly. I wasn't expecting the twist at the end, but the set-up of the book tugged at my feelings. I enjoyed the moments between Alex and Maya-Jade. The moments of Shady Glen were rough at first, but lovely as time went on. I enjoyed hearing all the stories of the residents. They all had something to share, especially Josey. This is a must read novel for everyone! 

* Book sent for review


I'm so excited to chat with Gayle Foreman:

Would you rather be flattered or told something in brutal honesty?

 

One of my favorite sayings is, “The truth will set you free but first it will make you miserable.” Maybe that’s why I don’t trust flattery as much as I do criticism? Though I do enjoy flattery, too.


It is so much easier to trust criticism. 

 

What point in history would you like to live through?

 

That’s such a hard question because our understanding of historical times is so very limited because it’s all conjecture. I think I’d like to hopscotch through a bunch of eras, less to experience say the Jazz Age or Enlightenment than to test the hypothesis I’ve developed while writing books with historical elements that people are people are people, with similar desires and traits and flaws, no matter where and when they live.  


I like the idea of going to different eras. I would love to travel to Regency England or Renaissance Italy. 

 

What is a fond memory of your grandparent?

 

My grandparents all died by the time I was a teenager, and I deeply regret that I didn’t get to know them as fully-rounded people, which is maybe why I set my latest novel Not Nothing, in an assisted-living facility and chose a 107-year-old man to narrate it. The memories I do have tend to be small moments: having Shake-and-Bake chicken and Pepperidge Farm cake for Shabbat Dinner at my grandparents’ Hollywood apartment or the news clippings my grandmother would send to me.


Ha! My grandmother would cut out articles of my accomplishments. She created a photo album for me. Some of those are in there. It was very sweet. I had very fond memories of my grandparents. 

 

What is your best thing you've accomplished?

 

My family first. Next is something I don’t talk about publicly, which is maybe what makes it the most profound. Sorry to be so vague but to quote Taylor Swift, “I’m only cryptic and Machiavellian because I care.”


Ha! You will tell everyone if the time is right. It's a very important question and makes me want to be a better person. 

 

If you could interview anyone - who would it be and why?

 

My grandparents. I have befriended and interviewed several elderly people throughout the years—I think I’m drawn to old folks to fill my grandparent gap—and the stories they tell, the history they’ve lived through, blows my mind. But so does the realization that even though things were very different in, say, the 1930s or 1950s, the human experience was very much the same. I take comfort in that.

Yes! You capture this beautifully in the book! 

Monday, August 5, 2024

Middle Grade Review: The Sherlock Society



* First in the new series * 
Zoe and Alex, sister and brother, are supposed to get a job this summer. They veto baby-sitting, dog walking, and lawn mowing. Instead, they decide to open their own detective agency. Two friends of Alex's join them. As they'll need an adult to drive them places, they coerce their grandfather to help. 

Their grandfather worked for years as a reporter. They go through his old case files to discover a cold case to work on. They vote on the cold case of Al Capone and the missing million dollars. As they attempt to uncover the treasure, they stumble upon an illegal dump site of contaminated waste.

The team decides to switch gears and focus on who is dumping the waste. After getting stone-walled, they need to come up with a better way to uncover the truth. But can they root out this conspiracy?
My Thoughts: I'm a huge fan of the City Spies series so I was super happy to receive this ARC. I loved the sibling relationship. Zoe wasn't thrilled with her summer plans, but I think the summer turned out better than expected. I loved how the grandfather and his "old school" ways. I loved how they had to research everything before taking action. I admired their problem-solving skills. I really liked the lawyer mother in this one. She had a few tricks on her sleeve. I also enjoyed the nerdy moments. Lots of action and danger in that kept me turning the pages. This is a great start to a new series; I can't wait to see what happens next. 

Cover Thoughts: Love it
Source: ARC sent for review
Published Date: September 3rd
Library Recommendation: James Ponti is a favorite author at my library. This is a must have book for school and public libraries. 

Monday, June 24, 2024

Middle Grade Review: Perfect Revenge



* Book 4 in the Saddlehill Academy series * 
Abby was shocked to learn that Ava and Olivia are attending Saddlehill Academy. They seem excited to befriend her and happy to join the team. But things might not be all that they seem.

Abby's too busy worrying about her grades to deal with more team drama. If her grades don't improve in the next few weeks, her father will pull her from the riding team. Abby will be devastated if that happens, especially as she's waiting for word on the clinic from Sasha Silvers and Heather Fox.
My Thoughts: I love this series for the horses, the drama, the friendships, and the romance. Abby and Mila spend more time together in this book and couldn't be cuter. Even though I don't like the reasons, I love how the team starts coming together. I loved seeing Abby and Emery at their house and more family time due to Thanksgiving. I really love learning about the characters from the Canterwood Crest series. The drama in this book ends on a wicked Canterwood cliff-hanger. I need more books in this series! 

Cover Thoughts: Perfect. I love these covers
Source: Book sent for review
Library Recommendation: A must have series for your school and public libraries

I'm chatting with the author later this week, be sure to check back in! 

Monday, June 3, 2024

Middle Grade Review: Falling Hard

 


* Book 3 in the Saddlehill Academy series *

Abby and her teammates are finding their way back to being a team after the drama from the last book! They're not in the clear with their instructor yet, but they are making progress. They do have to apologize to everyone.

Once that's finished, they can go back to focusing on the upcoming shows, especially one at Canterwood Crest! Since it's near Halloween, there will be a spooky element. 

Even better, they learn about a clinic being run by the Sasha Silver. It's very competitive, but Abby dreams of winning a spot. 

Abby's struggling with all the pressure from riding, creating the perfect video for the clinic, and fixing things with her friends. They seem to be getting along just fine without her and excluding her from their hangouts. It gives her a pit in her stomach and makes her doubt everything - even the feelings she has for Mila. 

Will Abby find her balance again?

My Thoughts: Once I finally got my hands on this book, I tore through it! I loved every second of it. I loved the friendship drama and how everything turned out. I loved going back to Canterwood Crest. Even more, I loved catching up with old favorite characters from that series. There's a lot of drama in this series that keeps me turning the pages quickly. I love the friendships and the descriptions of everything. I really really want to attend Saddlehill Academy. I loved the Halloween and fall portions of this story - especially the costumes. It seems like so much fun! Also, I loved how Jessica Burkhart writes about representation and how it matters! 

Cover Thoughts: Charming
Source: Purchased
Library Recommendation: A must have series for your school and public libraries!



Monday, February 12, 2024

James Ponti Author Event: Mission Manhattan


Last week I was lucky enough to attend an author event (my first one of the year) at RJ Julia's featuring James Ponti and Jake Burt. 

In the shop window:

The event was super fun - I cried with laugher several times. 

Jake Burt was a wonderful moderator. We all played a game plotter vs panser.

James Ponti is a panser - sort of. He knows the ending but not how we get there. He does like to plan three chapters ahead. 

He doesn't know how to play chess, so those scenes are hard to write. 

James talked about his love for indie bookstores and how he's proud to be a Kid Lit writer. 

One Easter Egg: He writes song lyrics into each book

Easter Egg #2 The head of MI6 is also in the Framed books (Which I still need to read)

He doesn't have a favorite character, because he doesn't want the books to become unbalanced. Each character has one of his qualities. But Kat is the closest to him. 

We heard a funny TOAST story.  

Here he is reading the first little bit of the book. 

Thanks to a goodreads review, he stats each book off with a bang. 

It was such a fun night. We didn't end up getting another picture together. This is from the last tour:


We talked a little bit about NYPL. I love the fun fact that is in the book. It's fascinating and no I'm not going to spoil it.

I was lucky enough to get an early copy of the book. I love this series - there's so much action, danger, and drama. You can read my review here.

Another great night! I was so happy I was able to attend. 

Outside the shop. How cute is that?