I *think* my understanding of the Mayhem community is somewhat accurate - the comments at least seem to reflect our mutual interest in getting good books into the hands of readers. But then I felt like I myself was back in middle-school, poked by insecurity and second-guessing things, wondering if we're actually sparking conversations that connect with our readers.
So are we? I'd love to hear from you all - especially any new followers - and extend an open invitation for comments and introductions. So don't be shy. If you've never commented before, now's your chance.
1. Tell us a little bit about yourself. What specifically draws you to middle-grade literature? Are you a parent? Teacher? Librarian? Writer? All of the above? None of the above, but, like me, just never grew out of the middle-grade shelves? :)
2. What aspect of middle-grade books do you enjoy discussing online? Reviews? Author interviews? Writing tips? Marketing tips? Anything you'd like to see more of?
3. And, just for fun, who IS your favorite supporting character in a middle-grade novel?
I''ll go first, okay?
I'm Marissa. Even if I didn't write MG fantasy, it would still be my favorite section in the library. I love how middle-grade novels straddle childhood and adulthood, one foot planted firmly in the realm of fantastic, magical imagination, and the other tiptoeing into realms of identity and what it means to relate to the world and people around us.
I also like to read book reviews and author interviews. As a parent, I'm hungry for good recommendations, especially since my boys are already bored with my never-ending raves over Anne of Green Gables. I can pull out a few classic middle-grade titles I know might appeal, but I'm always looking for good MG reads with boy-appeal.
And my favorite supporting character? Favorite anything is just so hard to narrow down, but I've just finished reading MIRAGE, by: Jenn Reese, and I really have enjoyed Aluna's friend, Hoku.
