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Marvelous Jackson
Coming September 2024!
Pre-order Today!
Since losing his mom, thirteen-year-old Jack Wilson has spent most of his time seeing just how much trouble he can get away with so that he feels like a winner at something. But he takes his mischief too far and is faced with the possibility of unbearable consequences—like being sent away to boarding school in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan! He knows it’s time to make a big change.
After rediscovering the love of baking he once shared with his mother, Jack is confident that his new sense of purpose will help him stay on the right path, so he throws himself into learning the finer points of sprinkles and scones, and hopefully even mending his broken relationship with his dad.
When the world-famous Marvelous Midwest Kids Baking Championship television show announces that it’s accepting applications for its next season, Jack takes his hobby to the next level so he can snag a coveted audition spot in Chicago. He knows his journey will be tough and twisty, but maybe it will take him exactly where he needs to go.
A stand-alone companion to Crossing the Pressure Line, Marvelous Jackson is about taking risks and making mistakes. It celebrates the power of humor, friendship, and sweet treats to make any situation better, even a broken heart.
Pre-order Today!
Since losing his mom, thirteen-year-old Jack Wilson has spent most of his time seeing just how much trouble he can get away with so that he feels like a winner at something. But he takes his mischief too far and is faced with the possibility of unbearable consequences—like being sent away to boarding school in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan! He knows it’s time to make a big change.
After rediscovering the love of baking he once shared with his mother, Jack is confident that his new sense of purpose will help him stay on the right path, so he throws himself into learning the finer points of sprinkles and scones, and hopefully even mending his broken relationship with his dad.
When the world-famous Marvelous Midwest Kids Baking Championship television show announces that it’s accepting applications for its next season, Jack takes his hobby to the next level so he can snag a coveted audition spot in Chicago. He knows his journey will be tough and twisty, but maybe it will take him exactly where he needs to go.
A stand-alone companion to Crossing the Pressure Line, Marvelous Jackson is about taking risks and making mistakes. It celebrates the power of humor, friendship, and sweet treats to make any situation better, even a broken heart.
270 pages, Hardcover
Published September 10, 2024
1 person is currently reading
87 people want to read
About the author
Laura Anne Bird
3 books36 followersA Milwaukee native, Laura Anne Bird graduated from the University of Notre Dame with a degree in English. She lives in Madison, Wisconsin, with her husband, three big kids, and little dog. When she’s not reading, writing, or reviewing books, she loves to exercise and explore the outdoors.
Marvelous Jackson is a follow-up to her middle grade debut, Crossing the Pressure Line, which garnered awards from the Independent Book Publishers Association, the Midwest Independent Publishers Association, and the Arts + Literature Laboratory's Wisconsin Writers Awards program.
Join Laura on Instagram @laura_at_the_library, where she celebrates all things literary.
Marvelous Jackson is a follow-up to her middle grade debut, Crossing the Pressure Line, which garnered awards from the Independent Book Publishers Association, the Midwest Independent Publishers Association, and the Arts + Literature Laboratory's Wisconsin Writers Awards program.
Join Laura on Instagram @laura_at_the_library, where she celebrates all things literary.
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
May 28, 2024
Laura Bird has done it again! Marvelous Jackson, the follow up to her award-winning debut, Crossing the Pressure Line, is a winner!
13 year old Jack Wilson hasn’t been the same after his mom died. After a string of poor choices, Jack knows he needs to find a hobby and fast - one that will keep him off his principal’s radar and also in his father’s good graces. He discovers, much to everyone’s surprise (himself included) a talent for baking (Jack always enjoyed a bit of baking with his mom before she passed away). With the help of his friends and the support of his father, Jack allows himself to find joy in the kitchen, reconnecting with his mom’s memory in a way he’d never considered possible, and bettering himself in the process. When an opportunity to be a contestant on a national baking show comes his way, Jack discovers that the recipe for success lies in his trusted inner circle and his never-give-up attitude.
Laura Bird’s prose is effortless and her characters are well developed. While Jack has experienced a great loss, the story is neither heavy nor depressing. It’s a fun, positive read for middle graders. I can’t wait to pass this novel to a dear friend whose 11 year old daughter competed in a baking competition recently. I know she’ll eat it up!
13 year old Jack Wilson hasn’t been the same after his mom died. After a string of poor choices, Jack knows he needs to find a hobby and fast - one that will keep him off his principal’s radar and also in his father’s good graces. He discovers, much to everyone’s surprise (himself included) a talent for baking (Jack always enjoyed a bit of baking with his mom before she passed away). With the help of his friends and the support of his father, Jack allows himself to find joy in the kitchen, reconnecting with his mom’s memory in a way he’d never considered possible, and bettering himself in the process. When an opportunity to be a contestant on a national baking show comes his way, Jack discovers that the recipe for success lies in his trusted inner circle and his never-give-up attitude.
Laura Bird’s prose is effortless and her characters are well developed. While Jack has experienced a great loss, the story is neither heavy nor depressing. It’s a fun, positive read for middle graders. I can’t wait to pass this novel to a dear friend whose 11 year old daughter competed in a baking competition recently. I know she’ll eat it up!
May 31, 2024
If you want to make a 50-year-old woman ugly cry at an airport gate, encourage her to read Marvelous Jackson. While this touching story is aimed at middle-grade readers, Jack's vulnerability and persistence are relatable to any reader who remembers what being an adolescent feels like.
In this standalone companion novel to Bird's debut _Crossing the Pressure Line_, readers are treated to a strong, flawed 13 year old boy as a main character. Jack's personal pain as he struggles through grief becomes motivation for discovering himself through baking. A familiar cast of teen peer characters gives the story warmth.
While the themes could be depressing, this is a novel of hope and community and joy.
ETA: My 13 y/o daughter read our ARC within 24 hours of it arriving in the mail. Then she said her 18 y/o brother who is an avid baker would have liked it when he was her age.
I agree. More books about tween and teen boys with a full range of emotions, please! Marvelous Jackson is so relatable.
In this standalone companion novel to Bird's debut _Crossing the Pressure Line_, readers are treated to a strong, flawed 13 year old boy as a main character. Jack's personal pain as he struggles through grief becomes motivation for discovering himself through baking. A familiar cast of teen peer characters gives the story warmth.
While the themes could be depressing, this is a novel of hope and community and joy.
ETA: My 13 y/o daughter read our ARC within 24 hours of it arriving in the mail. Then she said her 18 y/o brother who is an avid baker would have liked it when he was her age.
I agree. More books about tween and teen boys with a full range of emotions, please! Marvelous Jackson is so relatable.
July 9, 2024
Absolutely loved Marvelous Jackson! After reading Laura’s first book (Crossing the Pressure Line), I was thrilled to hear she was working on another one!
While the target audience is middle schoolers, Marvelous Jackson is the perfect book for readers of all ages. As a baker myself, I loved following Jackson’s journey of his re-discovery of baking, the challenges he overcame, and the pure joy he found in not only the act of baking, but also the relationships he built and the experience of sharing his creations with those who mattered to him.
Highly recommend this book - a hopeful story that reminds us of the impact of forgiveness, our never/ending potential, and the importance of relationships (past and present).
While the target audience is middle schoolers, Marvelous Jackson is the perfect book for readers of all ages. As a baker myself, I loved following Jackson’s journey of his re-discovery of baking, the challenges he overcame, and the pure joy he found in not only the act of baking, but also the relationships he built and the experience of sharing his creations with those who mattered to him.
Highly recommend this book - a hopeful story that reminds us of the impact of forgiveness, our never/ending potential, and the importance of relationships (past and present).
June 18, 2024
Bird masterfully blends themes of family, loss, self-discovery, and fortitude in the quaint backdrop of a Midwestern town in her latest middle grade novel, taking readers on a troubled boy’s journey to self-discovery. Following the loss of his mother, Jackson Jefferson Wilson, a beleaguered thirteen-year-old in northern Wisconsin, rekindles his passion for baking—a bond he once shared with her. Determined to find solace and direction, he sets his sights on auditioning for the renowned Marvelous Midwest Kids Baking Championship in Chicago. Jack believes this newfound purpose will steer him clear of trouble. Immersing himself in the delicate art of sprinkles and scones, he also hopes to mend the fractured relationship with his father. But will he succeed?
At the core of the novel is the relationship between Jack and Norm, a father and son duo who are navigating the complexities of grief following the loss of Jillian, Jack’s mother. The exploration of grief is sensitively portrayed, capturing the raw emotions and challenges that come with loss. Bird skillfully delves into her protagonists’ individual journeys of healing and coping, highlighting the different ways in which they navigate their shared sorrow.
Jack’s evolution from a young boy grappling with loss to a determined and passionate baker is a captivating arc that unfolds with sincerity and depth. As Jack immerses himself in the world of baking, the reader is taken on a journey of exploration, growth, and self-realization. The narrative beautifully captures Jack’s budding passion for baking and his desire to participate in The Marvelous Midwest Kids Baking Championship, showcasing his resilience and determination to pursue his dreams.
Norm is a complex character who is dealing with personal challenges and trying to navigate his responsibilities as a single father. Jack’s friends, particularly Pogo’s presence adds humor and camaraderie to the narrative. The quaint town setting of Alwyn, Wisconsin, serves as a cozy and intimate backdrop, highlighting the significance of communal support during trying times. The inclusion of vibrant characters like Miss Jean Ann and the town locals adds a sense of fellowship and genuineness to the tale.
With its well-managed pacing, the novel effortlessly weaves between contemplative moments of raw emotion and captivating sequences that intensify anticipation, notably as Jack embarks on his path towards competing in the prestigious baking competition. With a compelling voice and fully fleshed-out characters, Bird delivers a poignant tale that strikes at the heart with rawness and honesty. A stunner.
At the core of the novel is the relationship between Jack and Norm, a father and son duo who are navigating the complexities of grief following the loss of Jillian, Jack’s mother. The exploration of grief is sensitively portrayed, capturing the raw emotions and challenges that come with loss. Bird skillfully delves into her protagonists’ individual journeys of healing and coping, highlighting the different ways in which they navigate their shared sorrow.
Jack’s evolution from a young boy grappling with loss to a determined and passionate baker is a captivating arc that unfolds with sincerity and depth. As Jack immerses himself in the world of baking, the reader is taken on a journey of exploration, growth, and self-realization. The narrative beautifully captures Jack’s budding passion for baking and his desire to participate in The Marvelous Midwest Kids Baking Championship, showcasing his resilience and determination to pursue his dreams.
Norm is a complex character who is dealing with personal challenges and trying to navigate his responsibilities as a single father. Jack’s friends, particularly Pogo’s presence adds humor and camaraderie to the narrative. The quaint town setting of Alwyn, Wisconsin, serves as a cozy and intimate backdrop, highlighting the significance of communal support during trying times. The inclusion of vibrant characters like Miss Jean Ann and the town locals adds a sense of fellowship and genuineness to the tale.
With its well-managed pacing, the novel effortlessly weaves between contemplative moments of raw emotion and captivating sequences that intensify anticipation, notably as Jack embarks on his path towards competing in the prestigious baking competition. With a compelling voice and fully fleshed-out characters, Bird delivers a poignant tale that strikes at the heart with rawness and honesty. A stunner.
February 2, 2025
“Just like the day before—and the day before that—Jackson Jefferson Wilson wondered how much trouble he could get away with in school. It was a little game he liked to play, because then he could feel like a winner at something.” (1)
In the 481 days since his mother died of cancer, thirteen-year-old Jack (named for three presidents) has had anger issues and has made and gotten into a lot of trouble, and he just received his second school suspension for fighting. One more and boarding school may be the only option. He has to change—and he wants to change. “Jack had to face the truth. Since his mom died, he’d turned into someone he didn’t understand or even like. Sure, his downfall had started during the saddest time of his life, but he’d let it go on too long. He could see how far he’s strayed from the kid his mom had loved so much.” (6)
Determined to make some “big changes,” Jack looks for a hobby. Unlike his friends, he doesn’t like to hunt or to play sports and, even though his dad, Norm, spends most of his time at his restaurant (especially since his mom died), Jack didn’t want to work there although he offered to help with the [Chicken] Nuggies Contest which would help his dad win money to fix up the restaurant.
His friend Theo re-introduces Jack to the baking that he used to do with his mother, and he’s found a hobby! And when Theo introduces him to the “The Marvelous Midwest Kids Baking Championship” show (MMKBC), he starts baking and reading recipes and trying new techniques learned from the show.
Also as he spends more time with Theo and friends whom he had either alienated or not had time for in his year of grief, Jack learns “Maybe everyone feels like they’re missing something or someone important.” (97)
When Jack wins an audition for the next season of MMKBC and his friends help him prepare, everything—the Nuggies Content date, his driver coming down with the flu, a snowstorm, a fire in the restaurant—seems to block him from doing so. But all his friends, Theo’s moms, and even Norm assist to get him to Chicago in time for the audition.
This is an engaging story of grief, redemption, friendships, family, perseverance, libraries and librarians, baking, and, yes, recipes for readers to try.
Note: MARVELOUS JACKSON is a companion novel to CROSSING THE PRESSURE LINE but can stand alone.
In the 481 days since his mother died of cancer, thirteen-year-old Jack (named for three presidents) has had anger issues and has made and gotten into a lot of trouble, and he just received his second school suspension for fighting. One more and boarding school may be the only option. He has to change—and he wants to change. “Jack had to face the truth. Since his mom died, he’d turned into someone he didn’t understand or even like. Sure, his downfall had started during the saddest time of his life, but he’d let it go on too long. He could see how far he’s strayed from the kid his mom had loved so much.” (6)
Determined to make some “big changes,” Jack looks for a hobby. Unlike his friends, he doesn’t like to hunt or to play sports and, even though his dad, Norm, spends most of his time at his restaurant (especially since his mom died), Jack didn’t want to work there although he offered to help with the [Chicken] Nuggies Contest which would help his dad win money to fix up the restaurant.
His friend Theo re-introduces Jack to the baking that he used to do with his mother, and he’s found a hobby! And when Theo introduces him to the “The Marvelous Midwest Kids Baking Championship” show (MMKBC), he starts baking and reading recipes and trying new techniques learned from the show.
Also as he spends more time with Theo and friends whom he had either alienated or not had time for in his year of grief, Jack learns “Maybe everyone feels like they’re missing something or someone important.” (97)
When Jack wins an audition for the next season of MMKBC and his friends help him prepare, everything—the Nuggies Content date, his driver coming down with the flu, a snowstorm, a fire in the restaurant—seems to block him from doing so. But all his friends, Theo’s moms, and even Norm assist to get him to Chicago in time for the audition.
This is an engaging story of grief, redemption, friendships, family, perseverance, libraries and librarians, baking, and, yes, recipes for readers to try.
Note: MARVELOUS JACKSON is a companion novel to CROSSING THE PRESSURE LINE but can stand alone.
July 25, 2024
Having loved Laura's first book (Crossing the Pressure Line), I expected to love this one. Spoiler alert - my expectations were met and even exceeded :)
This has a teen boy, Jackson, who has been going through a rough patch. His mother passed away, his dad is more focused on running their Northwoods family restaurant than being an involved father, and Jackson is one more incident at school away from being kicked out for good. His plan to avoid this fate? Find a hobby that will keep him out of trouble - and maybe even help him find himself.
We're back in the wonderful world that Laura created for her first book, Crossing the Pressure Line, and it's so good to be back. This small town in the Northwoods of Wisconsin is populated with interesting characters, and really genuine moments between Jackson and his friends, his father, and the other important adults in his life. I love how the stakes have been raised, and that it isn't all smooth sailing for Jackson as he develops this new baking hobby. All of the topics of grief, and friendship, and being true to yourself, and growing up are handled so marvelously. And I am obsessed with where Laura chooses to conclude the story; I suspect many young readers will have strong feelings about the way it all wraps up, and I love the opportunities that presents for discussion and debate.
Please do yourself a favor and get this one preordered. This is a standalone (though obviously I think you will enjoy it more if you're read her first book), and I love that the protagonist is a teen boy with a passion outside the stereotypical hobbies or activities for someone his age. Another book that I would tell any family to add to their read-aloud list, or would happily place in the hands of middle-grade readers so they can realize the ways in which they themselves are Marvelous.
This has a teen boy, Jackson, who has been going through a rough patch. His mother passed away, his dad is more focused on running their Northwoods family restaurant than being an involved father, and Jackson is one more incident at school away from being kicked out for good. His plan to avoid this fate? Find a hobby that will keep him out of trouble - and maybe even help him find himself.
We're back in the wonderful world that Laura created for her first book, Crossing the Pressure Line, and it's so good to be back. This small town in the Northwoods of Wisconsin is populated with interesting characters, and really genuine moments between Jackson and his friends, his father, and the other important adults in his life. I love how the stakes have been raised, and that it isn't all smooth sailing for Jackson as he develops this new baking hobby. All of the topics of grief, and friendship, and being true to yourself, and growing up are handled so marvelously. And I am obsessed with where Laura chooses to conclude the story; I suspect many young readers will have strong feelings about the way it all wraps up, and I love the opportunities that presents for discussion and debate.
Please do yourself a favor and get this one preordered. This is a standalone (though obviously I think you will enjoy it more if you're read her first book), and I love that the protagonist is a teen boy with a passion outside the stereotypical hobbies or activities for someone his age. Another book that I would tell any family to add to their read-aloud list, or would happily place in the hands of middle-grade readers so they can realize the ways in which they themselves are Marvelous.
June 18, 2024
In Bird’s engaging middle-grade novel, a troubled seventh grader embarks on a journey of self-improvement through the craft of baking. Jackson “Jack” Wilson, a young man from Northern Wisconsin, has had a turbulent eighteen months since his mother’s death.
Acting out in school led to suspensions and nearly expulsion. His father Norm urges him to channel his energy positively. Inspired by a baking show, Jack decides to honor his mother’s memory by baking, using her old recipes. Meanwhile, Norm is preparing for his own culinary challenge. As father and son delve into their respective pursuits, they bond over shared cooking sessions, slowly healing their strained relationship.
The characters in the novel, including Jack’s friends like Pogo and Carlos, are richly drawn and lend complexity to the narrative. Their interactions and dynamics ring true, pulling readers into Jack’s world with ease. The small-town atmosphere enhances the sense of belonging and emotional connections between the characters, making Alwyn a character in its own right within the narrative.
Bird’s writing style is descriptive and evocative, painting vivid scenes that capture the essence of each moment. The novel’s exploration of grief is poignant and resonant, offering a sensitive portrayal of loss and healing. A moving and uplifting read that celebrates the strength of the human spirit and the transformative power of love, community, and self-discovery; a must-have purchase for all middle grade collections.
Acting out in school led to suspensions and nearly expulsion. His father Norm urges him to channel his energy positively. Inspired by a baking show, Jack decides to honor his mother’s memory by baking, using her old recipes. Meanwhile, Norm is preparing for his own culinary challenge. As father and son delve into their respective pursuits, they bond over shared cooking sessions, slowly healing their strained relationship.
The characters in the novel, including Jack’s friends like Pogo and Carlos, are richly drawn and lend complexity to the narrative. Their interactions and dynamics ring true, pulling readers into Jack’s world with ease. The small-town atmosphere enhances the sense of belonging and emotional connections between the characters, making Alwyn a character in its own right within the narrative.
Bird’s writing style is descriptive and evocative, painting vivid scenes that capture the essence of each moment. The novel’s exploration of grief is poignant and resonant, offering a sensitive portrayal of loss and healing. A moving and uplifting read that celebrates the strength of the human spirit and the transformative power of love, community, and self-discovery; a must-have purchase for all middle grade collections.
September 1, 2024
🥣It’s officially September so that means you can get your hands on this sweet middle grade novel next week!
🎉Some day I’ll get to meet her IRL, but until then I’ll support my marvelous Bookstagram pal Laura from afar as she gets ready to celebrate her pub day for book baby #2 September 10!
🏫Jack lost his mother a year ago, and along the way, has lost himself. Angry and making poor decisions, he lands himself in the principal’s office with a final warning to change his behavior or find another school.
👨🍳His father works long hours at his restaurant and in dealing with their grief have grown apart, but Jack is determined to find a hobby that will help him course correct his path. With the help of his friends he rediscovers his love of baking, something he once enjoyed sharing with his mom.
While at his friend’s house he is introduced to a kid’s baking championship show and an idea begins setting. He might still be burning the cookies and having to Google reasons why some recipes fail, but with enough practice could he apply to be on the show’s next season?
Filled with warmth, humor and love, Laura has whipped up another satisfying read that both children and adults can enjoy. A stand alone companion to her first novel Crossing The Pressure Line, it’s a wonderful story of friendship and family, “the most important ingredients you’ll ever need.”
🎉Some day I’ll get to meet her IRL, but until then I’ll support my marvelous Bookstagram pal Laura from afar as she gets ready to celebrate her pub day for book baby #2 September 10!
🏫Jack lost his mother a year ago, and along the way, has lost himself. Angry and making poor decisions, he lands himself in the principal’s office with a final warning to change his behavior or find another school.
👨🍳His father works long hours at his restaurant and in dealing with their grief have grown apart, but Jack is determined to find a hobby that will help him course correct his path. With the help of his friends he rediscovers his love of baking, something he once enjoyed sharing with his mom.
While at his friend’s house he is introduced to a kid’s baking championship show and an idea begins setting. He might still be burning the cookies and having to Google reasons why some recipes fail, but with enough practice could he apply to be on the show’s next season?
Filled with warmth, humor and love, Laura has whipped up another satisfying read that both children and adults can enjoy. A stand alone companion to her first novel Crossing The Pressure Line, it’s a wonderful story of friendship and family, “the most important ingredients you’ll ever need.”
June 14, 2024
After reading Laura Anne Bird's previous book, Crossing the Pressure Line, our book club was excited to read this companion book about 13 year old Jackson Jefferson Wilson. It has been a LONG while since I was a 13 year old, but I thought the book really captured the feeling of those days well. Jack is grieving and adrift after the death of his mother. He needs an outlet beyond computer games, picking fights and causing trouble. Jack yearns to be grown up but still want to be close to his father. He wants to find a dream and place for himself that fits him, but struggles to do that in a small town in Northern Wisconsin where boys are expected to like hunting and fishing. And then he finds joy in baking. It's not all smooth sailing, but Jack is beginning to find his way.
I think middle readers will really enjoy this book. It is fun while still addressing serious themes. And it ends with some cookie recipes that I am going to have to try.
I think middle readers will really enjoy this book. It is fun while still addressing serious themes. And it ends with some cookie recipes that I am going to have to try.
September 8, 2024
I'm all in for a good redemption story, add a Wisco backdrop and baking-related storyline... yes, please!
Heartfelt, entertaining, with unexpected twists and turns, 'Marvelous Jackson' is a brilliant stand-alone addition to 'Crossing the Pressure Line.' I appreciate when an author creates a bully with a compelling, nuanced backstory, and offer them an opportunity to learn and grow from their behavior, apologize and find friendship and understanding. Though a baking competition propels the plot, it's a story about the power of showing up for one another, second chances, and finding what makes you happy.
Bird writes with her signature gorgeous prose, vivid imagery, and spot-on metaphors, 'he'd felt as frozen and rutted as a dirt road in winter," "his empty cottage ... waited for him like a dark yawn."
'Marvelous Jackson' bonuses: sweet references to the library Jackson's late mother loved so much, charming sketches at the start of each chapter, and three recipes.
Heartfelt, entertaining, with unexpected twists and turns, 'Marvelous Jackson' is a brilliant stand-alone addition to 'Crossing the Pressure Line.' I appreciate when an author creates a bully with a compelling, nuanced backstory, and offer them an opportunity to learn and grow from their behavior, apologize and find friendship and understanding. Though a baking competition propels the plot, it's a story about the power of showing up for one another, second chances, and finding what makes you happy.
Bird writes with her signature gorgeous prose, vivid imagery, and spot-on metaphors, 'he'd felt as frozen and rutted as a dirt road in winter," "his empty cottage ... waited for him like a dark yawn."
'Marvelous Jackson' bonuses: sweet references to the library Jackson's late mother loved so much, charming sketches at the start of each chapter, and three recipes.
August 31, 2024
My dear friend Laura’s second middle grade novel, Marvelous Jackson, is about to be released into the world! This book is a sweet story about a struggling 13-year-old boy who finds solace in baking—a talent that lands him a spot auditioning for the world-famous Marvelous Midwest Kids Baking Championship in Chicago AND I LOVED IT!
Marvelous Jackson is a sequel (of sorts) to Laura’s 2022 debut, Crossing the Pressure Line, which I also loved. And while I don’t typically read middle grade fiction, I will always make an exception for Laura’s novels, which celebrate this sweet tender age as much as the Midwestern setting in which they take place. I hope all my friends and followers pre-order a copy of this forthcoming fall title!
Marvelous Jackson is a sequel (of sorts) to Laura’s 2022 debut, Crossing the Pressure Line, which I also loved. And while I don’t typically read middle grade fiction, I will always make an exception for Laura’s novels, which celebrate this sweet tender age as much as the Midwestern setting in which they take place. I hope all my friends and followers pre-order a copy of this forthcoming fall title!
September 16, 2024
Jackson is a kid everyone can identify with…he’s a bit of a fish out of water, his old friends have different interests, his relationship with his dad is less than he’d like. He decides he’s going to do better and stop getting in trouble at school. To help himself, he finds a hobby….one that reconnects him with friends and his memories of his mother. You can’t help but cheer on Jackson as he struggles along with the support of his friends. He meets challenges as they come, and they keep coming! He grows and finds support and his dad. All to build up to the exciting ending!
I can envision my child would have loved this book….might be a good read aloud too, although I would probably sneaky read ahead to see how Jackson does!
I can envision my child would have loved this book….might be a good read aloud too, although I would probably sneaky read ahead to see how Jackson does!
September 10, 2024
This is the stand-alone companion to Laura Bird’s debut novel, Crossing the Pressure Line. Jack is a 13 year old boy struggling through the grief of losing his mother, not being able to connect with his work-a-holic dad and all pressures of middle school. His coping mechanism is causing trouble until he is on the verge of getting kicked out of school. He decides he needs a hobby and settles on baking. I don’t want to spoil the rest of the book so you’ll just have to read it to find out what happens!
This was just a fantastic story! I’m so happy Jackson got his own book! I was rooting for him the whole book. I loved his group of friends and how they all rallied behind him to help him succeed. I loved his self dependence and motivation to change his behavior. Such a great role model for middle grade readers.
This was just a fantastic story! I’m so happy Jackson got his own book! I was rooting for him the whole book. I loved his group of friends and how they all rallied behind him to help him succeed. I loved his self dependence and motivation to change his behavior. Such a great role model for middle grade readers.
September 19, 2024
Laura Anne Bird, Wisconsin middle grade author, released her companion novel, “Marvelous Jackson,” on September 10! This book follows her debut, “Crossing the Pressure Line,” which takes place in the Wisconsin Northwoods and addresses themes of grief and loss, making friends, setting goals and being courageous! “Marvelous Jackson” follows Jack, a teen bully in the first book, who strives to make changes in his life after getting in trouble at school. Jack is determined to make his dad proud and honor the memory of his mom. Jack finds comfort in baking and decides to audition for the world famous Marvelous Midwest Kids Baking Championship in Chicago! Making changes, taking chances and finding your tribe—this book is also a winner!
September 20, 2024
Oh, yeaaaah! I loved reading this middle age fiction book and hearing the Wisconsin accents in my head. Despite not being 8-13, I am a mom with older kids but I advocate for kids in foster care. There are so many messages of loss, not feeling like you fit in and struggling to recognize your support system that I read this with all of my caseload. They walk away with ideas of resilience and that they aren’t alone and it opens up the dialogue of bullying, special interests, fresh starts and family is all around us even if it isn’t in the nuclear sense. This book is beautifully written and the character development is rich and layered, downside is you leave happy crying and hungry!
May 14, 2025
This middle-grade novel presents a spunky character in Jackson (13) who has lost his mom, and Dad is too busy with his restaurant across town. I enjoyed the mistakes Jackson made and how he learned to grow through throwing himself into something his mother loved—baking. As Dad experiences traumatic things, along comes a big kids’ baking show Jackson applies to, but we’re left to guess about the outcome, which felt odd. Perhaps guessing the outcome will bring about discussion with teen readers. Except for the disappointment at the end for this reader, this is written well and with a well-rounded character.
May 28, 2024
Both my 13-year-old daughter and I were delighted to get our hands on Marvelous Jackson, the companion to Laura Anne Bird’s middle grade debut novel Crossing the Pressure Line. And it did not disappoint! Like the characters with Jackson’s many treats, I devoured this book! Bird so deftly weaves relatable issues with recognizable personalities - and humor and fun, too. I find myself longing to visit this part of Wisconsin, and I certainly succumbed to the desire to bake! (Try the Whimsydiddles - you won’t be sorry.)
September 15, 2024
Remember the feeling you had when you first got lost in a book because the characters felt like they were real? Laura Bird creates this kind of magic for early readers with her latest (and her debut, Crossing the Pressure Line). The “flow” Jackson learns to find in a hobby that can save him from trouble also helps him connect with people who see him as more than a troublemaker. This is a story about place, connection, and figuring out who you are. I bought copies for all the middle grade readers in my life.
November 3, 2024
This is the second young adult book in a series about a group of kids who are experiencing the grief of losing a family member in their early teen years. I read it in one sitting when I really should have gone to sleep! I continue to be impressed with this relatively new author's ability to provide artful self-resilience, self-esteem, and friendship lessons. Jackson's story of self-improvement (moving away from playing video games all day to numb his feelings vs. putting himself out there via a new hobby) is relatable, funny, and sweet.
September 17, 2024
This middle grade novel about a boy trying to find a hobby and himself while grieving his mother filled every crevice of my heart. Laura Anne Bird is an amazing writer, and Jack’s journey into the world of baking, friendship, and self-discovery is one I won’t forget. Young readers (8-12) are so lucky to have Laura’s books—and so are the adults in their lives!
This is a beautiful companion to Laura’s debut, Crossing the Pressure Line, but it also stands on its own. I can’t recommend it enough!
This is a beautiful companion to Laura’s debut, Crossing the Pressure Line, but it also stands on its own. I can’t recommend it enough!
November 19, 2025
A thoroughy enjoyable and heartwarming YA novel about a middle schooler struggling with the loss of his mother who discovers baking as a way to find meaning in life and shore up his relationship with his widowed father.
I am a firm believer that some of the best fiction is being written for young people because it's often straightforward, positive and full of engaging characters. This is no exception. Bonus: there are recipes in the back!
I am a firm believer that some of the best fiction is being written for young people because it's often straightforward, positive and full of engaging characters. This is no exception. Bonus: there are recipes in the back!
September 17, 2024
Heart warming and wonderful. This is the book for the kid in your life who wants to feel like they belong no matter what they love, no matter where they are in their lives, no matter how they see themselves compared to others. The voice in this book is lovable and the story is the best of the best.
December 9, 2024
I liked the theme of second chances and how everyone deals with grief differently but I didn’t find all of the characters believable. At the beginning, it felt like I was supposed to know more about the characters (maybe from the other book in the series) but it didn’t really build as deep of an understanding of the characters as I wanted.
September 5, 2024
Is it strange that Jackson is fictional yet all I want to do is give him a hug and tell him that his mom would be so proud? Laura Anne Bird has created an endearing, messy, marvelous main character that you'll root for every step of the wholly entertaining way.
July 13, 2025
As a middle grade book this has a lot going for it:
Wisconsin Author ✔️
Jr. baking show ✔️
Wisconsin setting✔️
Librarians ✔️
A relatable story. IYKYK
Wisconsin Author ✔️
Jr. baking show ✔️
Wisconsin setting✔️
Librarians ✔️
A relatable story. IYKYK
December 19, 2025
I gobbled up this book — eager to find out how everything would turn out in the end. A story of redemption, family, and food.
January 19, 2025
Nice book from a local author. The last book of my 2024 reading journey! Bonus recipes at the end were developed by local bakers specially for the book. That’s cool.
May 22, 2025
Loved getting Jack's story, told with such empathy and heart, after first meeting him and his struggles in CROSSING THE PRESSURE LINE. My favorite thing about this author is that she treats kids like real people. There is so much heart in this book.
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