I don’t know how I would’ve made it through childhood without books.
I’m the fourth of five children, and don’t have memories of picture books and lap reading,
maybe because life was hectic and it didn’t happen often.
But I do remember reading books by myself, some of them over and over.
Independent reading was a gift,
and I took advantage of it.
Every day.
In my room,
on the bed or floor,
on the couch,
in a tree,
back of the car,
in a tent,
on the school bus,
curled up on the window seat,
at the kitchen table.
Reading, always.
Books got me through.
They still do.
Which is why I’m so proud to be part of the group
From the Mixed-Up Files . . . of Middle-Grade Authors.
(Special thanks to Elissa Cruz for the idea and organization!)
Today is our launch and I hope you’ll go check out the new site.
You might win free books in our first giveaway,
but at the very least I hope you’ll relive your own middle-grade reading memories.
Tracy Abell 
The group of you have done a great job with that site!
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Thank you, Robin. Which just reminds me, I meant to give a shout-out to Elissa!
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Yeah! Wish I’d had you as a friend growing up. I didn’t have a reading buddy.
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That would’ve been awesome. You, me, our books, and lots of cows. I’m glad we have each other now.
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Great idea and it looks fantastic!
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It’s a pretty impressive effort, I think. Everyone rallied. I’m continually amazed and impressed by all the creative thinking in that group.
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Good luck! It looks great!
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Thank you, Barb. From the initial response, I’d say we’re definitely filling a need.
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How exciting! It’s wonderful to see MG books get that kind of attention, and I’m so glad you’re part of it.
(I was a card-carrying member of the always-reading club, too. Even while doing dishes, I propped a book open, which used to drive my mom crazy.)
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Reading while doing dishes! That takes the prize, I think. I’m sure I would have dropped a book in a sink full of soapy water. Hee.
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Wonderful. I see that other writers I know are on there: Jennifer and Kimberley.
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It’s an amazing group of people. I’m in awe of how creative they all are in their thinking, and am trying hard to soak up the genius.
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