Praise for Nicole Melleby:
"This emotional readshows the power of friendship and family without omitting the work that goes into loving someone."Booklist, starred review (The Science of Being Angry)
"A strong recommendation for readers who enjoy contemplative, character-driven stories like those by Ashley Herring Blake."School Library Journal, starred review (The Science of Being Angry)
"Sprinkled with astronomy-related metaphors related to a planets properties, this acutely observed, authentically told tale by Melleby thoughtfully portrays Plutos relationship with her worried single mother, the girls urgent desire to 'be fixed,' and her intenseand at times overpoweringdepressive episodes."Publishers Weekly, starred review (How to Become a Planet)
"A raw yet honest portrayal of a young persons experience with depression, this is a must-read for both middle grade readers and the teachers, counselors, parents, and other adults who interact daily with youth undergoing similar experiences."School Library Journal, starred review (How to Become a Planet)
"This funny, tender, and heart-wrenching story will have readers calling for an encore."Kirkus Review, starred review (In the Role of Brie Hutchens. . .)
"Melleby paints Brie as a recognizable teen. . . Wrenching and genuine."Publishers Weekly, starred review (In the Role of Brie Hutchens. . .)
"Melleby deftly tackles weighty topicsmental illness, child protective services, single parenting, sexualitywhile effortlessly weaving in elements of the life and works of Vincent van Gogh, creating a thoughtful, age-appropriate and impressive novel."Shelf Awareness, starred review (Hurricane Season)
"Mellebys debut offers a tender, earnest portrait of a daughter searching for constancy while negotiating her fathers sickness and the social challenges of tween girlhood, including her first crush on a girl."Publishers Weekly, starred review (Hurricane Season)
"Figs story will engage middle grade readers who enjoy thoughtful novels that address complex topics."School Library Journal, starred review (Hurricane Season)
Praise for A. J. Sass:
"Sass sophomore novel shines in its nuanced characterizations, subversion of stereotypes, and world that celebrates autism for the joy it brings Ellen when they are happily flapping. A tender, sweet coming-of-age story."Booklist, starred review (Ellen Outside the Lines)
"[T]houghtfully deals with gender identity and fluidity at various levels. A heartwarming and inviting book. Recommended for all middle grade shelves."School Library Journal, starred review (Ellen Outside the Lines)
"Sass masterfully balances Ana's passion for competitive figure skating with her journey to coming out....Sensitive and realistic."Booklist, starred review (Ana on the Edge)