Laura Anne Bird, a Madison-based author with a passion for kids' literature, shares her insights on choosing to write middle-grade fiction. Her love for books, sparked by her parents and the Wauwatosa Public Library, led her to turn her dream into reality. With two acclaimed novels, Crossing the Pressure Line and Marvelous Jack, she delves into universal themes that resonate with readers of all ages.

Unlock the Magic of Middle-Grade Fiction with Wisconsin's Laura Anne Bird

Claire Birch's Transformative Summer

In Crossing the Pressure Line, we follow 12-year-old Claire Birch as she navigates a transformative summer in Wisconsin's Northwoods. Fulfilling a special request from her late grandfather, Claire embarks on a journey that tests her courage and self-discovery. This novel showcases Bird's ability to handle difficult topics with hope and humor, making it a captivating read for both children and adults. 1: Claire's summer is filled with unexpected challenges and moments of growth. She discovers new aspects of herself and the world around her, as she faces the ups and downs of life. The Northwoods provide a beautiful backdrop for her story, adding to the charm and allure of the novel. 2: Bird's vivid descriptions bring the Northwoods to life, making readers feel as if they are right there with Claire. The details of the environment and the characters' emotions add depth to the story, making it a truly immersive experience.

Mischievous Jack's Rediscovery

Marvelous Jack focuses on a mischievous boy who rediscovers his love for baking after his mother's passing. This companion novel explores themes of loss and healing through the lens of Jack's culinary adventures. Bird's storytelling shines as she weaves together a tale that is both heartwarming and inspiring. 1: Jack's journey is one of self-discovery and finding purpose in the face of adversity. His love for baking becomes a source of comfort and strength, as he learns to cope with his grief. Bird's portrayal of Jack is both relatable and endearing, making readers root for his success. 2: The baking scenes in Marvelous Jack are a delight to read, as Bird describes the process in detail and with passion. The recipes and baking tips add an extra layer of enjoyment to the story, making it a must-read for food lovers and fiction enthusiasts alike.

Advocating for Books and Literacy

Beyond her writing, Bird is a dedicated advocate for books and literacy. She serves on the boards of the Madison Public Library Foundation and the Wisconsin Book Festival, working to promote access to books and amplify marginalized voices. In the face of rising book bans, her mission is more critical than ever. 1: Bird believes that books have the power to connect us in profound ways and to challenge our perspectives. She encourages all readers to support diverse authors and celebrate the stories that make us think and feel. 2: Her work as an advocate is a testament to her commitment to the power of literature. By fighting for the freedom to read and write, she is making a positive impact on the literary world and the lives of readers.

Continuing the Adventure

Bird's next adventure is to continue advocating for banned books and bringing more stories to life. Her message is clear: books matter and can transform lives. She invites readers to follow her on Instagram @Laura_at_the_Library and to join her in the celebration of literature. 1: Bird's passion for books is infectious, and her dedication to the cause is inspiring. She believes that every book has the potential to make a difference, and she is committed to sharing that message with the world. 2: As she moves forward, readers can look forward to more of Bird's wonderful stories and her continued efforts to promote literacy and diversity. Her work is a reminder of the importance of books in our lives.