Invisible: Max Wheeler's Guide to (NOT) Fitting In by Ryan Andreassen

Today's read is one that I'm, at first glance, on the fence about. It's no secret that I'm very cautious when it comes to reads with message about social issues...as in that's their complete purpose of being written. I tend to be super critical of these reads, especially when it hits areas such as neuro-divergency. My circle is packed with individuals in this area, so my scrutiny level is very high. Now, there are very good reads out there, and that's why I take a peek when I think one might win me over. So, why did I grab this one up? Well... ready for depth?????

The cover. Yep, that's it. And that's why I'm on the fence because I'm well aware that a cover doesn't necessarily mean anything, but there's just a nice sense of playfulness in this one to make me wonder if it does stay true to the intended audience and doesn't weigh down.

I guess it's time to find out if it's worth my gamble on this one or not.

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And before I forget, it's Monday! That means there is tons of middle grade goodness over at the MMGM (Marvelous Middle Grade Monday) over HERE. Knowers and lovers of literature for this age group recommend all sorts of tales to dive into. So, if you're into middle grade literature, you're going to want to head over there and take a peek.

INVISIBLE:

Max Wheeler's Guide to (NOT) Fitting In 

by Ryan Andreassen

Salt & Light

Middle Grade Contemporary

178 pages

ages 7 and up

"So here’s the thing about brains- they’re all weird. Seriously. But some brains are weird in ways everyone understands, and some brains are weird in ways that make people look at you funny. Guess which kind I have?" – Max Wheeler

Invisible is a laugh-out-loud, deeply heartfelt middle-grade novel about being different, being seen, and finding the people who see you for who you truly are.

Max Wheeler’s brain is like a spaceship- sometimes launching into hyperfocus at lightspeed, other times spinning out in a cosmic storm of distractions. With ADHD, dyslexia, and sensory processing differences, middle school feels like a daily mission through unexpected noise, confusing social codes, and cafeteria smells that seem like they came from another galaxy. Thankfully, Max has Cosmo—his support dog and steady companion.

His latest plan? Operation Normal A foolproof strategy to blend in and avoid standing out. it fails. Spectacularly.

When Max gets partnered with the ultra-organized, hyper-focused Amelia Lin for a major science project, he's sure they'll be a disaster together. Amelia has every step of her life planned out, and Max... well, Max once got distracted mid-sentence and forgot what he was talking about. But as they build a project around space and craters, Max realizes that maybe the key to surviving middle school isn't becoming someone else- it's finding the right people who like you just as you are. "Maybe being invisible isn't the problem. Maybe I just need to be visible to the right people."

Full of humor, heart, and unforgettable characters, this book is perfect for fans of Wonder, Diary of a Wimpy Kid, Counting by 7s, and The Miscalculations of Lightning Girl. It's a story about friendship, self-acceptance, and the unexpected ways we discover where we belong.

GOODREADS    /     AMAZON    /     B&N

MY TIDBITS

Max's determination to improve his social status slides in unexpected directions to increase awareness while putting a smile on the face.

Max has ADHD, dyslexia and sensory processing challenges...which means that life in school isn't always easy. But Max is on a mission to make himself more 'normal', which means figuring out what normal kids do, like, and talk about. Even with carefully laid out plans, nothing runs as planned, and he's about to give up...until he is partnered with the smartest girl in the class for a science project. Of course, he's well aware that this is destined to become a complete disaster despite his huge interest and knowledge in all things space. If he worked alone, he'd easily impress the teacher, but with a partner, he's pretty sure he's doomed. 

The first pages allow Max time to introduce himself and, especially, stress his special challenges. Even with the toss in of lists and various fonts/media fun, it almost became too much and concentrated on that front...but then, the tale shifts as a very entertaining and grabbing story unfolds. 

Max is a guy to like. He's well aware of who he is, how others see him, and what situations are most difficult to deal with. But for all of this self-awareness, he still can't manage to behave in a way to make him 'fit in'. This might seem like very usual set-up (and it is), but Max is a determined guy. Readers will have no trouble identifying with his well-planned missions to fit in and laugh as well as groan as one after the other falls apart in surprising ways. It's bitter sweet and lets lightness and humor coat the serious undertones without cheapening them. But this isn't the whole story...and that's great! Max has to work with the smart girl of the class, and she's quite the enjoyable character to get behind thanks to her very own, distinct quirks. The interactions between them are natural, adorable, funny, and hold just enough tension to make a reader wonder how in the world it will work out. The whole time, Max's thoughts and remarks (and lists and more) lead to awkward reality in the best ways.

The various challenges Max and others have in this book do help readers become more aware of such situations and open up a big door to better understanding. Especially since Max is, actually, very easy to connect with and understand. It doesn't shove everything into boxes, which I appreciate, but rather, lets the vastness flow in a very easy way for even 'normal' kids to identify with on some level.

Mostly, it's a fun read. Max carries tons of personality and is a character to root for the entire way through.

 

Free Bird: Flaco the Owl's Dreams Take Flight by Christine Mott

Today's read grabbed my interest for several reasons. Firstly, the owl soaring above NYC mixed with the title just seemed a little different that other picture books I've been grabbing up lately...and I love diverse directions. Secondly, it's written based on a true story, and I'm a sucker for those when done right. Add that animal stories (true ones) are especially heartwarming for this age group, and I decided to give it a go. 

Let's open it up and see if it's worth a read or not! 

FREE BIRD

Flaco the Owl's Dreams Take Flight

by Christine Mott

Illustrations by Ofra Isler

Lantern Publishing & Media

Picture Book

52 pages

ages 4 to 8

Based on a true story, Free Bird: Flaco the Owl’s Dreams Take Flight is an inspiring picture book for children ages 4-8 chronicling the adventures of Flaco the owl as he escapes from a zoo to follow his dreams of flying free and enjoying freedom in the wilds of NYC.

Embark on an exciting journey with Flaco the owl in Free Bird: Flaco the Owl’s Dreams Take Flight! This captivating picture book, perfect for children ages 4-8, is based on a true story that will inspire and delight young readers.

Flaco, a brave and determined owl, dreams of breaking free from his cage at the zoo and soaring through the sky. One day, he seizes the opportunity to escape and finally experience the freedom he has always longed for. Follow Flaco as he navigates the bustling streets of New York City, learns to fly, and makes new friends along the way.

Through Flaco’s eyes, children will learn the importance of following their dreams and showing compassion for wild animals. This heartwarming tale is beautifully illustrated and will leave a lasting impression on readers of all ages. Join Flaco on his incredible adventure and be inspired to reach for the stars!

This book comes with a bonus educational section in the back for all the curious readers. Discover amazing facts about owls that will make early learning fun and help connect the story to the real world.

50% of author’s book royalties will be donated to the Wild Bird Fund, a 501(c)(3) non-profit that rehabilitates sick, injured and orphaned wildlife and releases them back to the wilds of New York City.

GOODREADS    /    AMAZON

MY TIDBITS

Based on a true story, this book follows the adventure of Flaco the owl as he escapes from the New York zoo and finds freedom in the world beyond. It begins as Flaco stares out into the world from his cage, dreaming of flying with the other birds, which visit him now and then. His 'escape' is quick, leaving most of the book to deal with his adaptation to the wild and flying, since he's never had the opportunity to fly freely and doesn't have the strength right away.

The story is told through Flaco's eyes and shows how he struggles with various aspects of being free in New York. I appreciated this take, since it shows the reality of the situation and how being 'free' isn't an instant wonderful perfection but includes adjustment. The involvement of the zoo as they try to catch him is gently added here and there as a live trap peeks up in a couple illustrations and Flaco notices them with a phrase or two, but this isn't about the chase and doesn't press that direction. Instead, Flaco finds himself lonely and needing to learn. There are a few dangers, but these are also on the subtle side to slide with the age group well. By the time Flaco does sink into his new life, readers will be rooting for him and have a new respect for animals that make this change.

The writing flows well enough and fits the audience level nicely. It isn't written with over-excitement or adventure but still holds the pacing enough to catch the interest of more reluctant listeners on better days. The information slides right in with the story adding a little knowledge goodness. All of this balances nicely with the illustrations, which depict most scenes with depth and bring the world to life. 

This makes a lovely read for anyone visiting the theme of releasing animals back into the 'wild'. And since a portion of the profits also head toward the Wild Bird Fund, it also offers goodness on that side.

And here she is...

Christine Mott is an author, attorney and animal advocate with over fifteen years of experience leading legal and policy efforts to protect animals. She advises alternative protein companies, animal sanctuaries and other animal protection and sustainability-focused organizations. Christine is a former Chair of the Animal Law Committee of the NYC Bar Association and has served on the boards of various animal advocacy organizations. Christine received her J.D. from NYU Law and her B.A. from Smith College. Christine’s work has been featured in the New York Times and various media. A native New Yorker, Christine currently lives in California with her family.  

Readers can connect with Christine Mott on Instagram, Goodreads, and LinkedIn.
To learn more, visit ChristineMott.com

The Sherlock Society: Hurricane Heist by James Ponti

Have you been seeing this one everywhere like I have? Today's read is the 2nd in the latest series from James Ponti. I did read the first one (amazing, right?) and enjoyed it quite a bit. James Ponti's tales tend to be easy to read and very smoothly created, which  makes them a nice pick-em-up and know that they'll be enjoyable. Or at least, they have been up until now. Yes, I've read more than a couple of his books, so I can say that. But this one? Well, I guess we'll have to dive in and see if he's pulled it off again or not.

Plus, I do love a good mystery.

So, off we go!

HURRICANE HEIST

The Sherlock Society #2

by James Ponti

Aladdin

Middle Grade Mystery

320 pages

ages 8 to 12

COMING...

SEPTEMBER 2nd!!!

When a hurricane uncovers new information in a cold case, the Sherlock Society investigates a decades-old heist in this second book in the action-packed and funny New York Times bestselling Sherlock Society middle grade series from Edgar Award–winning author James Ponti!

When a category three hurricane hits Miami Beach, it uncovers a body buried at the renowned Moroccan Hotel. The body is identified as the man who served as the hotel’s bell captain sixty years ago…and the presumed culprit of the million-dollar jewel heist that took place just before his disappearance.

Since the bell captain clearly didn’t take off with the goods as had been long believed, the Sherlock Society sets their sights on uncovering the real culprit of the theft. But when the thief may also be implicated in the bell captain’s murder, even sixty years later, there are people who want the truth to stay buried.

GOODREADS    /     PUBLISHER

MY TIDBITS

Not all mysteries only happen in the present, and this one glides with clues over the years and enough tension to hold until the very last page.

A body has been discovered at the Moroccan Hotel and identified as a man, who'd died sixty years before. Although the Sherlock Society wasn't planning for another case, Grandfather's relationship to the deceased many years ago makes it impossible to ignore, especially since he'd been trying to prove that the deceased was innocent in a jewelry theft for years. While it might seem that the trail has long grown cold, the Sherlock Society comes across more and more information in unexpected ways. But this isn't going unnoticed. Someone doesn't want them to discover the truth and is going to extreme extents to make sure they don't.

Already on the first pages, this tale starts out with energy and grabs...but not in the way that might be expected. It starts with the Grandpa, who might be aged but packs more life than most and adds zest, which fits since it's also his past which underlines the mystery. Alex and Zoe along with their friends have a golden relationship with him (adding goodness), but it also lays a great foundation as the mystery and murder unfolds. Their are hints of darker tons to entice the audience and draw in, but the author uses the character's personalities and situations to add just the right amount of humor to make it a fun adventure. It's an addictive balance.

The writing is smooth as always and adds information and facts, here and there, while weaving a nice web of clues and intentions. There were moments of teetering over-information, which had me skimming over several paragraphs. Still, that didn't quite outweigh the high-tension, dangerous stakes, and action scenes enough to make the book disappoint, either. I just hope this draws back in the future books a bit.

Summed up, this is another fun, grabbing read with characters, who live up to their Sherlock name and with side characters to enjoy or hate...and I can't wait to see what adventure lies in store for them next.

And here he is...

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. Find out more at JamesPonti.com.

This Moment Is Special: A Dia de Muertos Story by John Parra

Today's read slides into a holiday direction...and one that isn't right around the corner. Right now, the publishing world is releasing the upcoming Fall reads. Halloween and Dia de Muertos belong belong to this bunch. I don't mind a few Fall thoughts with temperatures increasing the last days. It reminds me that cooler days are coming back (I'm a Fall/Winter girl). 

Let's take a look and see what wonderful holiday thoughts this one holds.

THIS MOMENT IS SPECIAL

A Dia de Muertos Story

by John Parra

Paula Wiseman Books

Picture Book

40 pages

ages 4 to 8

COMING JULY 15th!!!

Through all moments of the day, both large and small, a boy prepares for a Day of the Dead celebration, in this picture book from Pura Belpré Honor–winning author-illustrator John Parra.

A single day in a boy’s life is filled with family, love, and inspiration as he prepares for the Día de Muertos celebration and remembers that all moments are special. Each moment reminds us of our family and those who have gone before us. Today holds a special promise, una promesa especial.

GOODREADS     /     PUBLISHER

MY TIDBITS

With care, love and an edge of excitement, these pages celebrate the preparations for the Day of the Dead.

Día de Muertos sits front and center in these pages and follows a young boy as he goes through his day right before the holiday. Every moment comes across with familiarity as normal,  activities mix with hints of growing celebration excitement. Not only will those who celebrate this holiday recognize the activities, but those who don't will see moments they can identify while learning gently about how preparations for this take place. 

The meaning behind the holiday is carried through a smooth flowing text, which brings across the atmosphere with poetic ease. The illustrations make each moment clear and allow the reader to see exactly what is going on in a way they can identify with. This includes a small surprise as the boy is immediately introduced in his makeup and this holds the entire day through...many of the other characters also wear the mask. But it's not clear that this is a mask (for those who are unaware of the custom) until the very last page. To add bilingual goodness, the author adds a short Spanish phrase at the end of each verse. And so everything gets rounded off in a warm hug, every moment is packed with tons of family love and respect.

It's a lovely, atmospheric read for the holiday and brings across the customs in a natural way. This isn't really a read for more impatient readers/listeners, but it works nicely as an addition to the celebration or to add to a theme when learning about the holiday.

And here he is...

John Parra is an award-winning illustrator, designer, author, and educator. For his children’s illustration work he has received three American Library Association Pura Belpré Honors. His books include Frida Kahlo and Her Animalitos, written by Monica Brown, which earned a New York Times Best Illustrated Book designation; Green Is a Chile Pepper, written by Roseanne Thong, which received the Américas Book Award; Spanish Is the Language of My Family, written by Michael Genhart, which received seven starred reviews and the Tomás Rivera Mexican American Children's Book Award; Hey, Wall, written by Susan Verde; The Power of Her Pen, written by Lesa Cline-Ransome; and his authorial debut Growing an Artist, which was the recipient of the Christopher Award and the Américas Award. Learn more at JohnParraArt.com.

Hedgehog Whodunit: The Carousel Caper by Heather Preusser

It's time for a fun mystery! So, I was excited to get my hands on exactly that. Today's read is the 2nd book in a mystery series for beginning readers, who need a bit more practice before hitting tougher middle grade novels. This one centers around a hedgehog detective, which I thought was a neat twist. 

Plus, it involves a carousel...and honestly, that has me, now, wanting to find a carousel to take a ride on. It's been a long time since I've boarded one, and I've always enjoyed them. And of course, my horse has to go up and down.

Anyway, I suspect this one will be tons of fun and, hopefully, hold an entertaining mystery, too.

Ready to head into the world of animals and imagination because this one appears to pack that, too.

THE CAROUSEL CAPER

Hedgehog Whodunit, #2

by Heather Preusser

Illustrated by Gal Weizman

Andrews McMeel Publishing

Chapter Book Mystery

96 pages

ages 7 to 9

COMING...

JULY 8th!!!

It's merry-go-round mischief for Hitch the hedgehog! Hitch, a shrewd and edgy hedgehog detective, and his food-loving sidekick, Vinnie, are back with another mystery to someone's stolen the wooden cheetah from the City Zoo's carousel, and, according to Vinnie, "The longer it takes to pinpoint those pranksters who took that cheetah, the more animals they’ll likely steal, which could mean more pinching, more plundering, more pilfering! IT’LL TURN WILD AROUND HERE!”

A wild and ruckus-filled zoo is exactly what Hitch does not want, so he agrees to postpone his nap and solve the case. But that's easier said than done. From sneaky meerkats to a dramatic cabbage-eating contest, Hitch and Vinnie must navigate a series of comical and challenging events to catch the culprits and let Hitch take a nap, once and for all.

Through clever deduction, teamwork, and a few hilarious mishaps, Hitch and Vinnie manage to outwit the thieves and restore order to the carousel. Their journey is filled with witty dialogue, humorous illustrations, and engaging twists that keep readers on the edge of their seats.

Hedgehog The Carousel Caper is a delightful and engaging chapter book that encourages young readers to solve puzzles and think critically. It's sure to inspire budding detectives and provide animal enthusiasts with endless enjoyment.

GOODREADS    /    PUBLISHER

MY TIDBITS

Tons of animals with personality bring silliness as an unexpected detective does his best to solve a case and, finally, gain the right to take a nap.

After solving the case in book one, Hitch (a hedgehog) is ready for some quiet time...and he doesn't see himself as a detective for the entire zoo, anyway. But with the wooden animals on the carousel disappearing one by one and bolts with nuts left behind, he realizes he won't get any peace until he figures out what's going on. Vinnie, Hitch's sidekick, is as lively as ever and is playing cowboy rat the entire time...which doesn't make interrogations with eccentric animals of the zoo any easier. As Hitch tries to collect the clues, the animals on the carousel continue to disappear, and it looks like he might not get to the bottom of things before they are completely gone.

This is book two in the series, but it can easily be read as a standalone. 

Hitch is a somewhat unwilling, hedgehog detective, which dresses like a detective but would rather get his nap than really leave his home and solve a case, but he's thoughtful, and it makes him easy to root for...even though it's as if he hits everything with extreme hesitation. Vinnie, his assistant and rat, is the opposite and overflows with hyper-energy. Vinnie adds complete ridiculousness to Hitch's seriousness. But it's the other animals which really bring in the quirky charm with their personalities in every extreme. It creates a fun atmosphere, where getting clues is more a problem of dealing with the individual animals, and unexpected twists hit constantly. Still, the clues are well laid out and create a solid trail, which is impossible to figure out until the end.

The writing fits nicely to the higher end of the chapter book audience and lets readers sink into unfamiliar terms and more difficult vocabulary while holding the playful and easier style. By that, I mean that the font isn't only on the larger side, but the font also changes with certain words to add emphasis and inflated emotions to keep everything fun and playful. It makes it enjoyable to read. The plot isn't extremely difficult, but rather, lets each silly scene build into the next. Some do seem to end rather abruptly, but that keeps boredom away and also fits well to the younger audience.

There are illustrations scattered throughout, which always adds a nice touch. These add to the humor and scenes to add extra punch as needed. 

This books snuggles on the border of being quirky but doesn't really cross over, and instead, sticks to animal humor with silly personalities pure. There is a wholesome message at the end, but nothing overly stated. Plus, there are some animal facts sprinkled in to add goodness on that end, too. For readers, who enjoy animals, silliness, and mystery, it's one to pick up and enjoy.

And here is more about the illustrator...

Gal Weizman was born in Jerusalem, dreaming of flying above the white stone houses of her neighborhood like Peter Pan. As she grew older and became more acquainted with the laws of gravity, she had to abandon that plan. Instead, she devised a different way to never grow up: she attended Bezalel Academy of Arts and learned to draw. Gal loves to illustrate animals and creatures, and to see her creations come to life as they experience all those often funny, at times touching, and occasionally awkward situations that inhabit the colorful world of fiction. Her illustrations are bouncing through games and TV shows, they sit on packaging and live in various children's books around the globe... and sometimes, one hides under her drawing board, waiting to be teased out into the light. They are playful creatures, so please be kind to them, she loves them all.