Uncover secrets and meet gutsy middle grade heroes in four wonderful books by ALI STANDISH, LAURIE MORRISON, JENNIFER TORRES, and VARSHA BAJAJ!

This talented crew will join us at Books of Wonder for a virtual author panel, giving readers a peek inside their entertaining, contemplative middle grade that spans WWII history, corruption in Mumbai, sister schemes in blended families, and softball misadventures at the cusp of a family's startling brush with theft!

Embark on journeys of discovery through relatable tough stuff, authentic friendship, and detailed portrayals of home! Featuring:

Yonder by ALI STANDISH! Danny Timmons has looked up to Jack Bailey ever since the older boy saved two small children from drowning. Now with Danny's father away fighting in World War II, Danny relies on Jack’s friendship more than ever... until Jack goes missing from their small Appalachian town. As the search begins, long kept secrets are revealed as Danny discovers Yonder — a lost town of rainbow birds that has never known war.

Coming Up Short by LAURIE MORRISON! When softball star Bea's dad is caught taking money that belonged to his client and is suspended from practicing law, it feels like everything is falling apart. And to make matters worse, the boy she's crushing on is the son of the man who her father stole from! As gossip gets in the way of her game, can she find her own way to shine?

Thirst by VARSHA BAJAJ! Minni lives in the poorest part of Mumbai, where access to water is limited to a few hours a day and the communal taps have long lines. Lately, though, even that access is threatened — until Minni discovers water streaming out of every faucet in a new high-rise building that she works for. And exposing the building owner — a mafia ring-leader — could threaten her very life.

The Do-Over by JENNIFER TORRES! The Mendoza sisters need a do-over! Raquel and Lucinda used to be inseparable. But ever since their parents split, Raquel has been acting like editor-in-chief of their lives. Then a pandemic hits, and the sisters are forced to spend the lockdown at their dad's ranch house. Suddenly Raquel sees a chance to bring her mom and dad together again! Easy enough, right?

Fantastic August Middle Grade Reads!