Praise for 7th Grade Revolution
Combine a detective mystery, blend in history from Colonial America, and include the usual 7th grade school angst and what do you have? 7th Grade Revolution, a genre-defying children's story that revolves around 7th graders who stage a successful school revolt that ejects adult guidance, only to stumble into a treasure hunt that pits them against the FBI. At first this whirlwind of a middle-grade book feels too wide-ranging. There is a lot going on. But, powered by the characters of troublemaker Dennis Alexander and the reclusive Rhonda Snodgrass, 7th Grade Revolution quickly becomes a compelling survey of not just a student revolt, but its unexpected aftermath. It's unusual to have an adventure mystery wound into actual history based on real-world events.
As young readers pursue this exciting story, they will find it far different than the usual historical approach, more challenging and wide-ranging than the typical mystery, and more exciting than either genre. Decades ago, Henry Winterfield wrote Trouble at Timpetill, about a group of spoiled kids whose parents disappear and leave them to run the town. The students in Gardner's story, in contrast, have taken a more proactive hand in their future, rather than having adults force their independence and decision-making process. But now they have to support their decisions and struggle with some very adult processes. ." Lovely color illustrations by Luke Spooner pepper this adventure, adding visual strength to an already-formidable story that proves hard to put down.
Young readers interested in a problem-solving adventure story strengthened by evolving interpersonal relationships and student connections will find 7th Grade Revolution an outstanding read. It offers delightful action paired with thought-provoking insights not just on leadership and decision-making, but how a group of disparate students bands together for a greater purpose and ultimately reaches their goals, with an unexpected lesson for all. 7th Grade Revolution is very highly recommended for middle graders looking for lively adventure leisure reading.
~Diane Donovan, Midwest Book Review
Link to full review: 7th Grade Revolution
So, I arrived home earlier today to find your book on my front porch and I have just come up for air, realizing that I haven't even eaten since I picked it up. (It's 11:00) I don't even know where to begin. Should I start with the dedication that brought me to tears? The first time I saw my name as the teacher and I gasped? (I really had forgotten that you had said you would use my name!) The fact that the beginning of the book is so very reminiscent of the real thing? The illustration toward the end when I saw myself? All of those things were beyond my expectations, but I what I really want to say is that the book held me captive from beginning to end. You captured the middle school mind perfectly, showing their insecurities as well as the amazing strength that is just below the surface. Bravo! It is a wonderful book and I can see it being used during a study of government as a class read. The illustrator is also superb. I could go on and on. (I also am really amazed at how you captured me as a teacher ... how did you do that?) So thank you, thank you, thank you! I loved every part of this book and I am so very proud, as I said earlier, to have had any part in it.
Emmy presenters awarding best writing stated that writers have an obligation to bring their readers along on the emotional journey that the characters experience. Liana Gardner has done just that in 7th Grade Revolution. Published by Vesuvian Books the story is based on true events. It’s a mystery with historical aspects. Geared for nine to 12 year olds, it is nevertheless a story that many – even adults – can enjoy.
Published in Splash Magazine
5-Star Review
Liana Gardner draws inspiration from real students who led a revolution in their school as part of a project. Gardner's 7th Grade Revolution brings this to life, beginning with the students succeeding, but the story quickly weaves in a thriller and adventure twist, tying in a mysterious connection to history … The students defend their school in ways reminiscent of Home Alone … as the students race against the FBI to find this hidden treasure.
With stunning illustrations, 7th Grade Revolution is a treasure hunting adventure exploring themes of friendship, growing up, teamwork, and history.
5-Star Review
Liana Gardner's 7th Grade Revolution is a fun, fast-paced, epic adventure story! Akin to a great treasure hunt with ancient maps and clues just waiting to be revealed, 7th Grade Revolution unfolds against a ticking clock and the potential of danger around every corner (and a secret passageway, hidden room, and dark, bat-filled cavern). … part mystery, part history, and everything contemporary as the students cleverly utilize social media and their own ingenuity to save their school, even as the FBI stands ready to breach the doors. Strong characterization makes 7th Grade Revolution truly memorable as the individual stories and traits of Dennis, Rhonda and all the students are woven effortlessly into the overall story. In addition, 7th Grade Revolution includes striking, fun illustrations by Luke Spooner at the beginning of every chapter. I thoroughly enjoyed this novel and highly recommend it.
5-Star Review
This story is full of action and suspense and gripped my attention from the first chapter. Each of the characters was well developed and created with a unique personality. Dennis’ streetwise nature coupled with Rhonda’s intelligence and sensitivity made for a great team … Spencer was a fantastic cheeky character … The whole cat and mouse element of the plot kept the story moving at a fast pace as the FBI was closing in on the 7th graders. I also loved the historical elements of the story and the tension as they tried to solve the clues. This is a great adventure story that will keep your attention until the very last page.
This was a wonderful story. I reconnected with my childhood. It was very difficult to put down. If you like stories with adventure and mystery, you will absolutely love this.
7th Grade Revolution is a fantastic middle-grade book. This book has memorable characters, both main and secondary, as well as a plot that will keep you on your toes. I plan on getting this book for my almost 10-year-old.
Amazing plot! A school with a revolution getting under way! I loved the way the author came up with using 7th graders for this story!!
Silver Medal Winner: Middle Grades Fiction
Nautilus Book Awards
Gold Medal Winner: Pre-Teen Fiction
New York City Big Book Award
Finalist: Best Juvenile or Young Adult Fiction
Silver Falchion Award
Semifinalist
Screencraft Cinematic Book Awards
Finalist: Best Book (Children’s)
Digital World Book Awards
Gold Medal Winner: Backlist Fiction
Feathered Quill Book Awards
Gold Medal Winner: Best Use Of Social Media In Book
Digital Book World Awards
2nd Place: Mystery
Purple Dragonfly Book Awards
Story Monsters Approved: Tween Novels (Ages 10-14)
Middle-Grade Books (Ages 8-12)
Finalist: Children's Fiction
International Book Awards
Gold Medal Winner: Pre-Teen Fiction — General
Moonbeam Children's Book Awards
Gold Medal Winner: Preteen (10-12) Fiction
American Fiction Awards
Honorable Mention: Middle Grade Fiction
Purple Dragonfly Book Awards
Finalist: Gertrude Warner Book Awards for Middle Grade Readers
Honorable Mention: Children's Fiction
Hollywood Book Festival