Book Review: Alice Austen Lived Here by Alex Gino
If you were to ask me in seventh grade if history was my favorite subject, the answer would have been a resounding no. The same goes for the characters Sam and TJ in Alex Gino’s newest novel, [...]
The Magic of Books and the Power of Dreams: Guest Post by Sharon M. Draper
My mother read to me before I was even born. Stories were always a part of my life. The local library, just a few doors from my house, became a second home to me. I hungrily swallowed stories [...]
A Tool Kit for Kids’ Hearts: Guest Post by Elly Swartz
My new friend tucked her hair behind her ear as she whispered under her mask, “I have anxiety like Autumn in Dear Student.” Her voice shook. “Kids make fun of me.” She inhaled big. “Thanks for [...]
Why We Re-Read: Guest Post by Gregory Mone
One of the perils of visiting schools is that kids, teachers, librarians, and parents often ask which books you love and why. My favorites are always changing, and I have a difficult time picking [...]
Worldbuilding in Fantasy and Comics: Guest Post by Amy Kim Kibuishi
The ability to dream up worlds in one’s mind is crucial for creating an immersive experience for readers. In today’s guest post on the Mackin Community Blog, Amy Kim Kibuishi, creator of the [...]
Breaking Down Walls: Guest Post by Areli Morales
What does it feel like to never see your own story reflected in the books you read? Areli Morales wanted to provide a space for kids who are undocumented to feel seen and understood. In today’s [...]
Consider Your Audience: Guest Post by Aron Nels Steinke
“Your students don’t have to like you,” said my graduate school professor many times throughout the term. This mantra served me well over the years—as a reminder of who not to be as a teacher [...]
