Laura Peyton Roberts wrote the middle grade story, GREEN. It’s her fourth book. And this one, made it into my town library, where I discovered it.

So, here’s ten reasons to read it, not only for your enjoyment, but to learn storytelling.

1. It’s a totally cute, fun, fast read. It’s a great example of humorous middle grade with the juxtaposition of leprechauns interacting with a human.

2. Lilybet is a spunky believable character who you care about quite quickly. 

3. It starts with a bang – literally and figuratively – as Lily is kidnapped by leprechauns on her 13th birthday and brought to the land of Green.

4. A well-developed cast of Leprechauns as secondary characters will draw you into the story.

5. Lily has a clear goal – to pass three tests.  Clear stakes – she can’t return home until she either becomes the Keeper (of gold) or quits. But if she quits her memory will be erased – even the memories of her grandmother.

6. Great emotional arc. Lily’s grandmother (the previous Keeper) has already passed away, but she is the motivation behind Lily’s struggle to become the new Keeper. 

7. A cute Keeper, from the clan across the meadows, offers a hint of romance and adds his own twists to the story.

8. A hint of mystery. Someone is sabotaging Lily’s efforts to become Keeper and there are many suspects.

9. Good example of a page turner. At the beginning, I almost put it down but each chapter pulled me forward. And once I hit half way and the great twists were revealed, I knew I’d finish.

10. This book is full of suprises. It was unpredictable. I never guessed the right antagonist. I never could have guessed the ending. And I didn’t pick up on the plant and payoffs until the payoffs were revealed.

Definitely worth the read. Kids will love it! And that’s what middle grade is all about. Have you read any good middle grade books lately?