Writer. Book Critic. Editor.
Patricia McCormick is no stranger to transforming traumatic true-life experiences into digestible and empathetically rendered fiction. A former journalist, she tackled hard-hitting subjects in her previous four books, from cutting (CUT) and drug addiction from the addict’s sibling’s point of view (MY BROTHER’S KEEPER) to an American soldier’s guilty conscience during the Iraq war (PURPLE […]
Featuring stories written by more than 35 of the biggest and best names in YA fiction, these three themed anthologies are an invaluable resource for the classroom and home library. While one collection focuses mainly on the effects of bullying on today’s teens, and another contains meditations on fate and the unknown, the third presents […]
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. […]
Last minute gifts? I’ve got even more suggestions for you this week that will make middle-graders’ heads spin. The best part about this list is that it’s full of beautifully packaged educational books that make learning fun. From sports to creepy monsters to the 100 scariest things on the planet, these brainy titles are 2011’s cream of […]
It’s that time of year again. The weather’s getting nippier (well, slightly). Christmas trees are for sale on every street corner. (I live in New York where this kind of thing is a real treat. “Something green and nature-like! Wow!”) Kids are getting excited to light candles on Chanukah (early this year, eh?). And hordes […]
I know, I know. I came on the “Letter Blocks” scene two weeks ago, advertising my weekly post. But where was I last Thursday? Nowhere to be seen! Truth be told, I was buried under pots and pans, chopping cilantro, squeezing lemons, and kneading homemade bread dough for a 35-person Thanksgiving pot-luck feast. Needless to […]
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 