Writer. Book Critic. Editor.
Earlier this week, I attended my nephew’s high school graduation ceremony. Needless to say, it has been many moons since I’ve seen the long yawn of a football field and it felt a bit bizarre to be packed like (yes) sardines into a set of entirely too uncomfortable bleachers for too long of a duration. […]
You know how I feel about activity kit round-ups that facilitate learning on the sly. Here are a few recent titles that do just that. Stay tuned for the next round-up later on in the summer. Bridges and Tunnels: Investigate Feats of Engineering by Donna Latham, illustrated by Jen Vaughn. The latest title in the […]
Self-published novels can be a bit of a drag. If you’ll permit me to generalize (and possibly invoke the wrath of self-publishing authors everywhere), a large majority of those I’ve read have been frankly atrocious. Terrible grammar. Zero plot arcs or, worse, piled-on predictable plot twists. Clichéd characters lying woefully flat on the page. Sure, […]
Every once in a while, I come across a book that I can’t wait to recommend. It doesn’t have any bells and whistles. The plot doesn’t involve some grandiose theme or solve a devastating problem. It’s just a simple story with the potential to touch a wide variety of readers for different reasons. The Year […]
As you can probably tell by now, I’m a big fan of middle-grade and YA novels that deal with social issues, emotional conflicts, sticky situations. When done right, these books tell an engaging story while presenting possible solutions to actual real-world problems. For better or for worse, reading this type of material helps kids feel […]
When you’re prepubescent, sexuality can be confusing. If you’re not exposed to the topic early on (or if it isn’t discussed openly—or at all—at home), a lot of questions can arise. At school, Health class usually (well, hopefully) covers the bases as far as biology is concerned, but what about the feelings and emotions associated […]
Greetings, all! I’m back from lush and lovely Portland and am still feeling the effects of the stupendous hike I conquered (sort of) in the Columbia River Gorge. Killer views. Tasty, munchy trail mix. A deliciously gooey cinnamon bread-like roll called “Sin Dawg” (yes, really) with seeds and nuts that’s actually healthy. It was sublime. […]
What are you doing for Earth Day this year? A bit of gardening or planting a tree, perhaps? Teaching a lesson on weather systems and the effects of human activity on ecosystems around the world? Whatever the case may be, I hope you and your middle-graders enjoy it. Feel free to share a story or […]
We should celebrate our planet not just on April 22nd, but every day, and continue to think about ways to conserve energy, reuse household objects, recycle, cut back on carbon emissions, appreciate and protect our land and the animals that populate it, and more. The opportunities to improve our world are endless and the earlier […]
It’s baseball season! These 10 books are a sure hit. A home run? Corniness aside, they’ve all got something to offer. Picture Books: There Goes Ted Williams written and illustrated by Matt Tavares. Two on, two out, last of the ninth. From the super talented author-illustrator of four other equally spectacular baseball-related picture books—Zachary’s Ball (Anniversary Edition), Oliver’s Game, Mudball, […]
This book takes a look at George Floyd's death at the hands of police, explores the history of police brutality in the United States, and examines the national and global response to his death. Features include a glossary, references, websites, source notes, and an index. Aligned to Common Core Standards … [MORE]
People and farm animals make a lot of poop every day. Poop is often an untapped source for energy and fuel. Some people hope it will become popular as a sustainable energy source. Turning Poop Into Power looks at how poop becomes energy and the benefits of using it for heating and electricity. … [MORE]
Read an interview with me for Literary Hub’s cool "Book Marks" feature HERE.
Alexis Burling 