The Mean Girl Who Never Speaks by Zuni Blue

The Mean Girl Who Never Speaks stars Mya Dove, a practicing detective. In this episode, Mya is given a case to figure out whether the new girl at school is "mean" or not. And what the other children should do about it. Mya currently gets paid in grapes (when she does get paid), but she hopes to one day be a true detective.

It was fun reading the little police facts that Mya would pop off. Mya is adorable and spunky, though she occasionally sounds older than six. She seems to be a "wise beyond her years" character. She didn't feel right about writing off the new girl as "mean" and it was a good thing she followed her gut. I don't want to spoil the book, but I feel like it's really important to point out that one of the topics in this book is Social Anxiety. There are so few books that cover that issue that I almost shouted when I read the words. Go Zuni Blue for using a fun story to talk about real issues! And thank you for the police facts.

Set in London, England, this book is written in British English. That was another thing I liked about the book. I think it would be cool if the book had illustrations, but it was still good without them. The book could be pretty funny at times too.

I highly recommend this book to anyone interested in learning about social anxiety.

Interview With Author Kathryn L. Novak

Introducing The Author That Inspires Self-Esteem

Kathryn L. Novak

What inspired you to write your first book?

I wrote my first book to help children. “It Stinks to be Pink!” is based on my own life, and how I overcame the challenges I faced as a child. I always thought how much different my life would have been if I had been given this information as a young child instead of later in life.

When did you start considering yourself a writer?

After my first book was edited, and I was half way through the illustrations, I began to feel as though I was already a published author. I knew the story was good, but when the illustrations were so beautiful, I could see it already published and selling.

Out of the books you've written, which is your favorite?

I love all of my books. Though I must admit that I am quite fickle. I always love my newest creation just a little bit more than the others. (ha-ha) So, today I will say my favorite is, EZ as 1-2-3 Come Learn About Bugs A-Z. It is a rhyming picture book about bugs, and an ABC book as well. I love the illustrations, and the interesting bug facts in rhyme.

How do you feel about being interviewed by a children's book character?

I like it, and think it is quite ingenious.

What are you working on next?

I published my third children’s book this week, it is a children’s rhyming picture book. I have written my fourth book, and am editing it right now. In between books, I spend my time painting. My focus now is on fine art abstracts.

Can you share a little of your current work with us?

My newest book, “I’m No Baby!” is also a rhyming picture book. The title says it all. This book is written from the perspective of a two or three year old comparing their abilities to those of an infant.

Out of your own characters, do you have a favorite?

I still love the Fuzzipuffs from my first book.

Do you have any advice for other writers?

Be persistent! I believe the key to success is focus. Make your book a priority in your life. The first thing I do every single day is work on my current book or painting. I believe persistence more than natural talent is the key to success.

What do you do when you are not writing?

I paint, and paint, and paint.

If you had to live in one of your books which book would it be?

My first book, “It Stinks to be Pink!”

What was your favorite book when you were a kid?

The Borrowers, by Mary Norton was my favorite book as a child.