Middle grade chapter books for kids ages 9 through 14 and including 3rd grade books, 4th grade books, 5th grade books, 6th grade books, and 7th grade books.
My middle daughter did her study abroad in Singapore, so she was able to visit Malaysia a few times. I, sadly, was only able to see her in Singapore, but Malaysia is on my bucket list. I started making book lists for Asian countries a decade ago. At that time, I could only find two…
In the upcoming July issue of School Library Journal, Postcards from Malcom X has received a very nice review! “School libraries need true stories of the enduring importance of cross-cultural alliances and community organizing.” Gr 3-7–This book introduces middle school readers to the life and activism of Yuri Kochiyama, highlighting her meaningful correspondence and powerful…
My author copies for Postcards From Malcolm X arrived! Here’s my unboxing video: Postcards from Malcolm X: How Yuri Kochiyama Became a Human Rights Activist by Mia Wenjen, illustrated by Keith Henry Brown A moving portrait of Yuri Kochiyama―an ordinary woman who became an extraordinary activist―and her bond with Malcolm X When Japanese American activist…
I had such a wonderful time at the 4th Annual Greater Roxbury Book Fair. This young man told me that his class just read Barbed Wire Between Us and that it was his favorite book! I love him so much! Also, this was amazing news to me because my book had only been out for…
In Japan, the crane (tsuru) is a symbol of peace, good fortune, and longevity. It is a bird of happiness and spreads good luck. It is believed that folding 1,000 paper cranes (senbazuru) will help to bring about hope, healing, and peace. These children’s books featuring origami cranes also send a message of hope and…
I am so happy to announce that We Sing From the Heart is a Pennsylvania Mountain Laurel Book Award Nominee 2026-27. The purpose of the Mountain Laurel Book Award Program is to promote reading of quality books by young people in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, to encourage teacher/librarian collaboration in young adult and children’s literature,…
Simon and I met years ago when he was seeking letters of support for the appeal to trademark his band’s name. At that time, we met over the phone. During the creation of We Sing from the Heart, we met over Zoom and via email. I also follow him on social media, so it feels…