This author's work is deeply influenced by a rural childhood on a small farm, shaped by limited technology and a close bond with her sister, who later became a celebrated writer. Her background in art and architectural history further informs her unique narrative style. She possesses a keen eye for the built environment, adeptly weaving personal experiences and passions like food and gardening into rich, atmospheric stories. Her prose is both engaging and structurally sophisticated, often drawing from her understanding of urbanism and design.
Using a mysterious wardrobe that allows them to travel through time, two eleven-year-olds, Federico a boy from the Italian Renaissance and Bee a girl from present-day New Jersey, work together to prevent the bickering between two great artists from changing the future.
Boy has always been relegated to the outskirts of his small village. With a large hump on his back, a mysterious past, and a tendency to talk to animals, he is often mocked and abused by the other kids in his town. Until the arrival of a shadowy pilgrim named Secondus. Impressed with Boy’s climbing and jumping abilities, Secondus engages Boy as his servant, pulling him into an expedition across Europe to gather the seven precious relics of Saint Peter. Boy quickly realizes this journey is not an innocent one. They are stealing the relics, and gaining dangerous enemies in the process. But Boy is determined to see this pilgrimage through until the end—for what if St. Peter can make Boy’s hump go away? This compelling, action-packed tale is full of bravery and daring, stars a terrific cast of secondary characters, and features an unlikely multigenerational friendship at its heart. Memorable and haunting, Catherine Gilbert Murdock’s epic medieval adventure is just right for readers of Sara Pennypacker’s Pax, Adam Gidwitz’s The Inquisitor’s Tale, and Pam Muñoz Ryan’s Echo. Features a map and black-and-white art throughout.
Offers information such as: the frightening childhood experiences that inspired the authors' lifelong passion for the paranormal; the history and science behind ghosts and other supernatural entities, with an illustrated guide to each class of spook; and, helpful sidebars like Is It a Ghost? A Handy Quiz, Ectoplasm Clean-up Tips, and more.
Family secrets, first love, and the magic of Rome take center stage in Catherine Gilbert Murdock's newest novel for middle grade readers.
During her junior year basketball season, D.J. faces the dual challenges of college recruiting and romance.
D.J. Schwenk is navigating the challenges of eleventh grade, balancing her budding romance with the popular Brian Nelson and her unique position as the first female linebacker on her high school football team. As she reconnects with her best friend Amber and faces family dynamics at Schwenk Farm, D.J. learns to confront unexpected obstacles. The journey reveals her inner strength and resilience, highlighting themes of friendship, self-discovery, and the unpredictability of life.
The story features Princess Ben, who faces the challenges of being trapped under the control of the scheming Queen Sophia after her parents' mysterious deaths. While confined in a tower, she discovers an enchanted room that leads her to secretly learn magic. As she navigates her new skills and the trials of castle life, a grave danger looms over her kingdom. The narrative explores themes of resilience and empowerment as she strives to save her realm and escape her dire circumstances.
Murdock's stunning debut novel, narrated by 15-year-old D.J. Schwenk of Red Bend, Wisconsin, is now available in paperback.
Focusing on the evolving perceptions of alcohol and gender, the author skillfully explores the social and political events that have shaped American culture. This examination reveals how these factors intertwine and influence societal norms and behaviors, providing a nuanced understanding of their impact on American life.