I went to the library last night, and while I was there I thought I'd see what books have recently come out that are similar to mine on submission. Though, honestly, I'm not sure where mine fits, exactly. Still, I like to wander the aisles and see if something jumps out at me.
Last night, however, I thought maybe I should get some input from the children's librarian. So I did.
Remind me never to do that again.
Granted, she wasn't the "real" children's librarian, but she said she has been working in the children's section of the library ever since she had been hired. You think she would have picked up a few things. She was very nice and tried to be helpful, but the only books she could tell me about were older bestsellers or the Star Wars books. Apparently those are the only books ever checked out by boys at my library.
I was supremely frustrated. Honestly? There are no fun books for boys other than Ender's Game and Star Wars? Oh, and Percy Jackson was on her list, too. She mentioned a few other fantasies that were nothing like what I had said I was searching for, which were contemporary mysteries and/or funny books. She couldn't think of one that fit my criteria.
So this makes me wonder about my book on subs. It's a light, fun MG mystery for boys with lots of crazy drawings (no, I didn't draw them, I just explained what my MC was drawing). Is there a place for this kind of book? Because I'm sure as heck not finding anything like it on the library shelves. That could be a really good sign, or a really bad one.
Though that could just be my library system.
If any of you know about a book or a series that has come out recently (or will be coming out soon) that fits my mystery or fun(ny) boy book criteria, please share. I should mention that mine is lower MG, so even some great chapter books suggestions would be greatly appreciated.
Please prove to me that there are new MG books for boys out there!