Writing middle grade books has been one of the most exciting, challenging, and downright hilarious journeys I’ve ever embarked on. It’s a wild ride, one filled with unexpected bumps, detours, and a lot of creative surprises. You’d think writing for younger audiences would be easier—fewer pages, simpler language, right? Oh, how wrong I was! But despite all the hair-pulling moments, there’s something magical about middle grade fiction that keeps me coming back for more.

The Challenges Along the Way

1. Finding the Right Voice

One of the first hurdles I faced was nailing that elusive middle grade voice. These readers are at a unique age where they’re not quite kids anymore but also not ready for the heavier, more mature themes of young adult fiction. They’re curious, adventurous, and often hilariously sarcastic. Writing a voice that captures that in-between stage is like trying to balance on a tightrope—too childish, and it feels condescending; too mature, and you risk losing their interest.

I can’t even count how many times I’ve written a chapter, only to go back and realize my protagonist sounded either five years old or twenty-five. The sweet spot is somewhere in the middle, but it takes time (and a lot of trial and error) to get it right.

2. Keeping the Pacing Perfect

If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that middle graders do not have time for your drawn-out exposition or excessive world-building. They want action, they want fun, and they want it now. The number of times I’ve scrapped chapters because they were too slow or bogged down with unnecessary details is, well, a lot. Middle grade readers are smart—they know when they’re being strung along.

But finding the right balance between action and meaningful character development is tough! There’s a delicate dance between keeping things exciting and allowing room for characters to breathe and grow. I can’t rush through it all, but I also can’t linger too long on introspective moments. The pacing puzzle is one I’m constantly tinkering with.

3. Being Funny Without Trying Too Hard

Middle grade books often have a wonderful blend of humor and heart, but trying to be funny on the page? Let’s just say that’s a skill I’m still refining. There’s nothing worse than writing a joke that falls flat, especially when you’re aiming for that perfect middle-grade blend of silly and smart.

The thing is, middle graders have a sharp sense of humor, and they can sniff out forced jokes from a mile away. Sometimes I’d think I’d written the funniest line, only to reread it and cringe at how contrived it felt. The trick, I’ve learned, is to let humor come naturally from the characters and the situations they’re in, rather than trying to insert jokes where they don’t fit.

4. Tackling Tough Topics with Sensitivity

Middle grade readers are experiencing a lot of “firsts”—first heartbreak, first big disappointment, first real struggle with identity or family. So while my books are full of adventure and fun, I also try to include moments that resonate emotionally. But here’s the tricky part: these topics need to be handled with care and sensitivity.

I’ve learned that while middle grade readers are more than capable of handling deeper themes, it’s important to present them in a way that feels authentic to their experiences without being overwhelming. It’s a balance between honesty and hope, and every time I approach one of these moments, I remind myself that it’s okay to show kids that life can be hard—just as long as I show them there’s light at the end of the tunnel, too.

So Why Do I Keep Going?

After all these challenges, you might wonder—why do I keep going? What is it that keeps me coming back to writing middle grade fiction, even when it feels like I’ve hit a creative wall or I’m struggling to find the right balance?

1. The Pure Joy of Imagination

One of the best things about writing for middle graders is the sheer freedom of imagination. Kids in this age group are open to so many wild and whimsical ideas. Want to write about a school for time travelers? Go for it. Talking animals? Absolutely. A parallel universe made entirely out of candy? Heck yes. There’s no idea too out-there or too quirky for middle grade fiction, and that sense of boundless creativity is what fuels me on the tough days.

2. The Readers Themselves

Middle grade readers are incredible. They’re at an age where they’re discovering who they are and what they love, and when they connect with a book, they really connect. I’ve received letters and feedback from young readers who felt seen or understood by something I wrote, and that feeling is worth all the struggles in the world. There’s nothing like knowing you’ve made a kid laugh or sparked their imagination.

3. The Stories I Want to Tell Matter

At the end of the day, I keep writing middle grade books because I believe in the stories I’m telling. The characters I create feel real to me, and I want to share their adventures, their fears, and their victories with the world. Writing these books might not always be easy, but it’s always rewarding. I’m constantly learning, growing, and pushing myself to be a better storyteller.

Why I’ll Never Stop

Writing middle grade books isn’t just about the finished product—it’s about the process, the journey, and the joy of creating something that can inspire and entertain young readers. Sure, there are days when it feels like I’ll never figure out the right pacing, or when my jokes fall flat, or when I struggle to find that perfect voice. But the magic of middle grade fiction—the laughter, the heart, the endless possibilities—makes every challenge worth it.

So here I am, still going, still writing, still chasing that next adventure. Because at the end of the day, the world of middle grade books is too fun, too important, and too full of potential to ever walk away from.

And I can’t wait to see what wild idea comes next.

Book 1 in the Merblood Saga, Selena Flowers and the Cursed Ruby is available here: https://www.amazon.com/Selena-Flowers-Cursed-Ruby-Thrilling-ebook/dp/B0D15KDM1K/
Book 2 is out in October!