The Monster Missions by Laura Martin | Middle Grade
The Monster Missions follows Berkley and Garth who find themselves in the wrong place at the wrong time and face to face with a giant sea monster. This sets off a series of events that ends them with a group of people who research and track sea monsters.

It’s refreshing to see a female lead in a middle grade fantasy novel and the author definitely gives her a shining role. I can see this being a hit for that reason alone. But while the beginning sets a strong foundation for an exciting premise, the book ended up feeling more like a series of disconnected events revolving around a central topic instead of a fully developed plot. I think it would still be compelling and interesting for middle grade readers (I mean, what kid doesn’t love sea monsters), but some of my students may have a hard time staying engaged and invested through all the research and chores around the submarine. For those who love ocean life, mythology, and/or monsters of legend and lore, this would be a great read. This book doesn’t lack in cool, weird, quirky, and scary monsters.

There is one part in particular that young readers may struggle with–a scene revolving around a sea monster’s nest. The characters are a bit careless in this scene and things are done for the benefit of science that may leave a few kids upset (I myself was bothered by it). Especially after giving such fun characterization to one of the sea monsters aboard their ship.

Overall, I think this book will appeal to older readers in the middle grade demographic and the action packed ocean scenes will have them wanting to read more!