I grew up hating to read...so how did I become an author for middle grade readers?

I grew up hating to read...so how did I become an author for middle grade readers? Sometimes I ask myself the same question.

Still, it’s true. I didn’t like to read as a child. This was ironic because my father was an author who published 77 books during his life. Many of them were for kids, but I couldn’t have been less interested. Several years ago, I decided to look into why I didn’t enjoy reading. That research resulted in my decision to begin writing the kinds of books I would have enjoyed as a child. 

My professional background has always involved the production of films, television commercials, and video programs. I’m a visual learner. So I began to incorporate some of those visual concepts into my writing. For example, readers won’t find these books to be heavy on descriptions. Boys especially want a story that moves rapidly. I chose to write many of the stories with completely different characters, setting, and plot. My work also includes two series. But as a child, I had a hard time accepting the concept of a group of friends, or cousins, or a brother and sister who would get up, every Saturday morning, go out into the back yard, and save the world…again. For that reason, each story in those series can stand alone.

Letters and emails from readers and their parents indicate that these new books are hitting their mark. Yet, not only are they enjoyed by reluctant boy readers, but avid boy readers, girls, and even adults get swept away in the stories, action, and adventure. 

Here is just a sampling of the comments that I regularly receive about these unique books.   

A mother writes, “I can't believe it ....as the concerned mother of two struggling readers...who is also the daughter of a children's librarian ... I think I have purchased every book recommended for reluctant readers  however, they have all fallen short until today. We were able to purchase our first Max Elliot Anderson book...and we're hooked!!!"

A teacher reported, "This year, we started with one of your books. The students are already finished with it. Our school only planned on using three of your books for the whole year. Now we’ll have to buy more titles.”

Another mother said, "At last we've found something that will interest him in reading."  

A school administrator wrote, “It is a joy to see our students, especially boys, asking for more! I can recommend every book without hesitation. While reading the first one, I had trouble putting it down. Max Elliot Anderson, the author of these books, has a unique ability to keep the reader on the edge of their seat. As a grandparent I am encouraged that the books creatively and appropriately weave Christian character traits and biblical principles through the life of the main character and his friends. Parents, you will find this true of every book.”

It is often said in business, find a need and fill it. We have a need to capture the interest and imagination of the next generation, or risk losing our readers. Today, kids have so many other, more visual distractions with personal electronic devices, television, computers, video games, and DVDs. It takes a different kind of book to hold their interest. These books will hold their interest.

My books are compared by readers and reviewers to a modern day Tom Sawyer, The Hardy Boys, Huck Finn, Nancy Drew, Tom Swift, and adventure author Jack London. 

Children write to me after reading one of my books. They have said that reading one of these middle grade mysteries or adventures is like being in an exciting or scary movie…good scary and not dark.

Find These Books And Many More At https://www.amazon.com/s?k=max+elliot+anderson&ref=nb_sb_noss_1  

THE SAM COOPER ADVENTURE SERIES

THE ACCIDENTAL ADVENTURES OF KURT BENSON AND HIS FRIENDS RILEY AND JORDAN

Video

Find These Books And Many More At https://www.amazon.com/s?k=max+elliot+anderson&ref=nb_sb_noss_1  

"The Great Cave Caper" - Middle Grade Adventure, Is Now Published

"The Great Cave Caper" - middle grade adventure, Is Now Published!

Synopsis

_________________________________

Four boys had formed a detective club in their little town where nothing much ever happens. That is, until they put their money together and ordered a police scanner for the shack where they held their meetings. The area around where they lived, in New Market, Virginia, was littered with caves. The uncle of one of the club’s members has a cave right on his farm. That’s when the guys hatched the idea of going out to the cave for a little innocent exploring. The cave was on private property, so they knew they’d be safe and no one could bother them. But on the night before their big adventure, the scanner came alive with reports of a big bank heist in a nearby city. The boys thought surely the robbers would be long gone by the time they set up their campsite near the cave. They were wrong. Inside the cave the next morning they found something. Now the robbers were coming in the entrance of the cave and the boys couldn’t get out.

Reviews
________________________________________________________________

*Anderson’s action packed thrill-a-minute page turner… 

*After learning of a bank robbery, they went on a camping trip and while exploring a cave, discover hidden loot from the robbery. Now they must figure out what the right thing to do is -- and deal with powerful temptations to the contrary. The Great Cave Caper is not only a rollicking good story, it has embedded within it some very good personal values for young readers to absorb.

Midwest Book Review

*Had me sitting on the edge of my seat.

*The author really made this book easy on the eyes because it didn't have many "big" words. Also, the author wrote in such a way that I could picture exactly what was going on, such as when Stewart was looking down into a hole in the cave and dropped his helmet. I could hear the flashlight coming apart from the helmet and breaking into the wall. I like this book because it was easy to read, yet it had me sitting on the edge of my seat wondering what was going to happen to the kids in the next sentence!

*Kept me glued until the last letter. I really liked the fact that they had a police scanner, just like I hope to someday. I also enjoyed all the cool facts about caves, and the eternal lesson of honesty and teamwork. This book makes a perfect gift! Five stars!

*This book is intended for younger ages, but in my opinion anyone of any age could enjoy this delightful book. And it comes with an extra feature at the end, a list of Hampton, Virginia’s police and fire department codes!

*Most significant in this story is the fact that Randy learns what a true hero is and how that connects with present events as well as major historical events in the not so distant past!!!

Kudos on a finely written tale – again

*The Great Cave Caper is an exciting read guaranteed to keep the interest of even the most reluctant reader. It is full of information about caves. I didn’t find anything I disliked. It held my interest from page one—and my twelve-year-old son is anxious to get his hand on the book and read it for himself. 

*Writer Anderson has fashioned an easily read, action packed, high adventure novel sure to please middle grade readers. Anderson appears to know his audience well, boys in this age group often shy away from books in favor of action and activity. The Great Cave Caper is a book I will take to my classroom, 4th grade, with the expectation that the setting and plot will draw reluctant readers into the storyline. Heroism, life lessons, values and expectations for behavior are presented in a non-preachy manner.  Writer Anderson’s thrill packed page turner is filled with intensity, grit and determination. Anderson keeps the action moving. Quick-paced dialog, interspersed with adroitly wrought action scenes produce a certain winner for the target audience. Anderson’s command of language draws the reader into the work and carries interest from the opening paragraphs as Randy awakens at home in his own bed right down to the last lines as Randy discusses what true heroism is and how he can help honor the heroes, emergency workers, who work to keep us all safe each day. The Great Cave Caper is an excellent choice for the classroom, personal reading list and the school and home library. Enjoyed the read, happy to recommend.

Max Elliot Anderson - author of exciting adventures and mysteries for readers 8 - 13
https://www.amazon.com/s?k=max+elliot+anderson&ref=nb_sb_noss_1 

Over A Dozen Adventures & Mysteries That'll Be Great For Christmas Giving For Kids 8 - 13

Over A Dozen Adventures & Mysteries That'll Be Great For Christmas Giving 
for Kids 8 - 13 and written from a Christian point of view.
Do you sometimes have trouble encouraging your children, especially your boys, to read books? Here’s something that might help.

That's because I grew up hating to read and chose a career in dramatic film production along with TV commercials and video programs. This helps me bring that same humor, action, adventure, and mystery to the middle grade books I write. Kids say reading one is like being in an exciting movie. There are two series of 6 books each, and also other standalone titles.

So get them to put down their electronic devices and try out one of these books. I believe you'll see a difference over Christmas break and beyond.

Amazon Link  https://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss_1?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=max+elliot+anderson

Positive Middle Grade Adventures and Mysteries Especially for #Halloween

Halloween can be a "tricky" time for kids as we do our best to counter some of the darker sides of the holiday. These books, which carry positive messages, can help. "Treat" your young reader to something different this year.

Synopsis_________________________________

Ghosts in the Old Attic

Sam Cooper is about to get the surprise of his life. His parents plan to leave Harper’s Inlet and move to Louisiana, where they will open a bed and breakfast.

When the family arrives, Sam’s cousins have some pretty wild-eyed stories to tell about a “haunted” mansion nearby. He and his cousins begin exploring the creepy place. Where were those noises coming from and the strange lights at night? There is also a rumor that the reason this place is “haunted” is because there is buried treasure hidden someplace. 

As the cousins are investigating, Sam’s parents have been looking for an available property they can afford.

Sam was in for another surprise when he found out about the rundown mansion his parents finally chose to buy. Who is trying to discourage them from moving in and why?

Will the family be able to open the bed and breakfast before it’s too late, or will they lose all their money?

Synopsis_________________________________

This Property is Condemned

A sign outside the old Remmington Mansion read, “This Property is Condemned.” Sam Cooper couldn’t figure out exactly what that meant. Even after his father explained it, he became more puzzled than ever. So, along with his friends, Tony and Tyler, he set out to solve the mystery. 

Sam thought the old place was abandoned. But, when the boys went to investigate, a curtain moved, and they discovered old Mrs. Remmington still lived in the crumbling house.

Sam was the kind of person who would try to right any wrong, or help anyone who was in trouble. And Mrs. Remmington was in a lot of it.

So, he organized the whole town to go out and fix the place up like new. But that’s when his problems really began.

Why did those men try to scare the old woman into moving? And, why were they threatening Sam and his friends?

No matter what it took, Sam was determined to find out.

Synopsis_________________________________

Twelve-year-old Scott Holcomb and his friends Al and Benji have finally been accepted to go on a wilderness adventure hike. Before they go, they have to take a course which teaches the dangers, and what should be done, in case anything goes wrong.

At the start of their hike the boys listened to the guides and followed the rules. It wasn't until Benji thought he saw a deer that he and Al took off after it, trying to get a picture. That’s where they broke the first rule; never leave the path. Scott called for them to come back, but they didn't listen to him and when they finally do return to the trail, the other hikers are nowhere to be seen. They hurried off in the direction they thought was right, but find out later that they were hopelessly lost. Just when they thought things couldn't get any worse, they did.  

Even though the boys broke the rules by leaving the trail, they quickly remember all the rest of their survival training and show unique ingenuity as they face the challenges ahead of them as they try to find their way back to safety.

The boys stumble upon a terrorist group hiding out in an abandoned cabin in the Rocky Mountains. The terrorists are tricked by the boys, arrested, and many others are captured around the world, stopping a planned disaster for the city of Denver. 

This story includes dense fog, an angry, menacing bear, a dangerous decrepit suspension bridge, the fear of being lost, terrorists, the army, and oh, yes, are their parents going to be upset!

Bio - Max Elliot Anderson

Max Elliot Anderson grew up as a struggling, reluctant reader.  After surveying the market as an adult, he sensed the need for action-adventures and mysteries for readers 8 – 13, that would have interested him as a child. 

Using his extensive experience in the production of dramatic motion pictures, videos, and television commercials, Mr. Anderson brings that same visual excitement and heart-pounding action to the stories he writes. His books include different characters, setting, and plot as well as two traditional series. 

Young readers have reported that reading one of his books is like actually being in an exciting movie. 

Find these and other exciting books on Max Elliot Anderson’s Amazon Author Page https://www.amazon.com/Max-Elliot-Anderson/e/B002BLP3EE 

Mysterious Cabin, Middle Grade Adventure, Is Now Published

Now Available

Synopsis: Mysterious Cabin

________________________________________

Twelve-year-old Scott Holcomb and his friends Al and Benji have finally been accepted to go on a wilderness adventure hike. Before they go, they have to take a course which teaches the dangers, and what should be done, in case anything goes wrong.

At the start of their hike the boys listened to the guides and followed the rules. It wasn't until Benji thought he saw a deer that he and Al took off after it, trying to get a picture. That’s where they broke the first rule; never leave the path. Scott called for them to come back, but they didn't listen to him and when they finally do return to the trail, the other hikers are nowhere to be seen. They hurried off in the direction they thought was right, but find out later that they were hopelessly lost. Just when they thought things couldn't get any worse, they did.  

Even though the boys broke the rules by leaving the trail, they quickly remember all the rest of their survival training and show unique ingenuity as they face the challenges ahead of them as they try to find their way back to safety.

The boys stumble upon a terrorist group hiding out in an abandoned cabin in the Rocky Mountains. The terrorists are tricked by the boys, arrested, and many others are captured around the world, stopping a planned disaster for the city of Denver. 

This story includes dense fog, an angry, menacing bear, a dangerous decrepit suspension bridge, the fear of being lost, terrorists, the army, and oh, yes, are their parents going to be upset!

Comments and Reviews

. How refreshing it is to find a mystery story written for 8 - 12 year olds that is relevant to modern times and yet retains an old-fashioned flavor. My eight-year-old read it through twice in one day, and I must admit I found it held my own attention and even elicited several chuckles along the way. 

. As in his previous books, Anderson keeps the descriptions to a minimum and the action moving. The reader is apt to read the entire book at one setting as the mystery unfolds.

. This summertime trip into the mountains to learn outdoor survival skills is only the backdrop to a rollicking adventure that climbs up your spine and hangs by its fingertips from the cliff of your skull. A very nicely crafted, attention riveting adventure tale, Mysterious Cabin is especially recommended reading for children ages 8 to 12. MIDWEST Book Review

. Mysterious Cabin is an exciting read, guaranteed to keep your tween boy entertained for hours. My son lives for these books to arrive. Even then I couldn’t put it down, and I am anxiously awaiting the next book. I liked that they showed some distress symbols in the back of the book for boys to experiment with. Pick up a copy for a boy in your life today!

. I don’t want to give away Anderson’s action-packed, riveting plot, but I promise, you will not be able to put down the book until the final page. 

Max Elliot Anderson’s books are destined to become classics along with such greats as Tom Sawyer, The Hardy Boys and Nancy Drew. Anderson is a talented writer; his books should be available in every local and middle school library. I am looking forward eagerly to his next adventure.

. I recommend reading this book to all who’ve enjoyed Anderson’s other books, because this is one of his best.

. The latest release by talented storyteller Max Elliot Anderson is a wonderfully entertaining read. When I began reading the book I found myself unable to put it down. I read the book from start to finish in one sitting. I could not stop reading even for meals. I was drawn in from the start by the way Mr. Anderson writes. He writes in a free flowing style that is very easy to read. He writes in such a way that the reader does not even realize that they are moving through the book so quickly and smoothly. Younger readers will find this book to be one they can easily read and enjoy. They won't feel bogged down by a book that is too challenging or difficult to read. Rather they will find an enjoyable entertaining story that is realistic and speaks to them in a manner that is consistent with how they speak themselves. Parents will find Anderson 's books to be a great way to get their kids to read. So many parents have to fight to get their kids to read. Try this book if that is the typical routine in your home when it comes to reading. I am sure you will find that these wonderful books are met with enthusiasm and are welcomed. Simply try it out for yourself and let the positive writing style of Max Elliot Anderson engage your young readers.

. I love the way Max writes. Though these books are aimed at the middle grade reader (boys 8-13) he writes in such a way that adults, like me, can really enjoy the story, too. Max doesn't "write down" to this age group. There is no condescension, no attempt to make this an 'easy' read. Yet it flows well and the pages get turned in rapid succession. I strongly urge you to get Mysterious Cabin. Another great job, Max. Congratulations.

. Typically, Anderson 's characters wind up in a happily ever after ending type of situation, but that hardly negates the tense impact of this author's exciting stories! The reader is led to genuinely care about the main characters and roots for them through every dangerous second! Max Anderson, again you continue not to disappoint this reader!

. In a world of TV and media coverage where violence and crime seem to win the day, Mysterious Cabin is a refreshing, thrilling story that also concentrates on the values that ensure a meaningful and peaceful life – yes, with plenty of mystery and adventure!

. Anderson is a genius at exciting plots, and sympathetic, interesting characters.

. I found myself reacting to events and wanting to keep reading despite interruptions around me. I think pre-teen boys would like this book, because the three boys are normal, believable characters. The facts presented in the book about wilderness camping, using signals, and what to do when faced with various dangers make the book even more believable and interesting.

Max Elliot Anderson

Author

On Amazon Now: https://www.amazon.com/Mysterious-Cabin-Max-Elliot-Anderson/dp/195108036X?SubscriptionId=1QZMGW0RRJC2PX87HDR2&tag=salranexp-20&linkCode=xm2&camp=2025&creative=165953&creativeASIN=195108036X 

Mysterious Cabin - Soon To Be Released For Middle Grade Readers

Coming Soon!

Synopsis: Mysterious Cabin

________________________________________

Twelve-year-old Scott Holcomb and his friends Al and Benji have finally been accepted to go on a wilderness adventure hike. Before they go, they have to take a course which teaches the dangers, and what should be done, in case anything goes wrong.

At the start of their hike the boys listened to the guides and followed the rules. It wasn't until Benji thought he saw a deer that he and Al took off after it, trying to get a picture. That’s where they broke the first rule; never leave the path. Scott called for them to come back, but they didn't listen to him and when they finally do return to the trail, the other hikers are nowhere to be seen. They hurried off in the direction they thought was right, but find out later that they were hopelessly lost. Just when they thought things couldn't get any worse, they did.  

Even though the boys broke the rules by leaving the trail, they quickly remember all the rest of their survival training and show unique ingenuity as they face the challenges ahead of them as they try to find their way back to safety.

The boys stumble upon a terrorist group hiding out in an abandoned cabin in the Rocky Mountains. The terrorists are tricked by the boys, arrested, and many others are captured around the world, stopping a planned disaster for the city of Denver. 

This story includes dense fog, an angry, menacing bear, a dangerous decrepit suspension bridge, the fear of being lost, terrorists, the army, and oh, yes, are their parents going to be upset!

Comments and Reviews

. How refreshing it is to find a mystery story written for 8 - 12 year olds that is relevant to modern times and yet retains an old-fashioned flavor. My eight-year-old read it through twice in one day, and I must admit I found it held my own attention and even elicited several chuckles along the way. 

. As in his previous books, Anderson keeps the descriptions to a minimum and the action moving. The reader is apt to read the entire book at one setting as the mystery unfolds.

. This summertime trip into the mountains to learn outdoor survival skills is only the backdrop to a rollicking adventure that climbs up your spine and hangs by its fingertips from the cliff of your skull. A very nicely crafted, attention riveting adventure tale, Mysterious Cabin is especially recommended reading for children ages 8 to 12. MIDWEST Book Review

. Mysterious Cabin is an exciting read, guaranteed to keep your tween boy entertained for hours. My son lives for these books to arrive. Even then I couldn’t put it down, and I am anxiously awaiting the next book. I liked that they showed some distress symbols in the back of the book for boys to experiment with. Pick up a copy for a boy in your life today!

. I don’t want to give away Anderson’s action-packed, riveting plot, but I promise, you will not be able to put down the book until the final page. 

Max Elliot Anderson’s books are destined to become classics along with such greats as Tom Sawyer, The Hardy Boys and Nancy Drew. Anderson is a talented writer; his books should be available in every local and middle school library. I am looking forward eagerly to his next adventure.

. I recommend reading this book to all who’ve enjoyed Anderson’s other books, because this is one of his best.

. The latest release by talented storyteller Max Elliot Anderson is a wonderfully entertaining read. When I began reading the book I found myself unable to put it down. I read the book from start to finish in one sitting. I could not stop reading even for meals. I was drawn in from the start by the way Mr. Anderson writes. He writes in a free flowing style that is very easy to read. He writes in such a way that the reader does not even realize that they are moving through the book so quickly and smoothly. Younger readers will find this book to be one they can easily read and enjoy. They won't feel bogged down by a book that is too challenging or difficult to read. Rather they will find an enjoyable entertaining story that is realistic and speaks to them in a manner that is consistent with how they speak themselves. Parents will find Anderson 's books to be a great way to get their kids to read. So many parents have to fight to get their kids to read. Try this book if that is the typical routine in your home when it comes to reading. I am sure you will find that these wonderful books are met with enthusiasm and are welcomed. Simply try it out for yourself and let the positive writing style of Max Elliot Anderson engage your young readers.

. I love the way Max writes. Though these books are aimed at the middle grade reader (boys 8-13) he writes in such a way that adults, like me, can really enjoy the story, too. Max doesn't "write down" to this age group. There is no condescension, no attempt to make this an 'easy' read. Yet it flows well and the pages get turned in rapid succession. I strongly urge you to get Mysterious Cabin. Another great job, Max. Congratulations.

. Typically, Anderson 's characters wind up in a happily ever after ending type of situation, but that hardly negates the tense impact of this author's exciting stories! The reader is led to genuinely care about the main characters and roots for them through every dangerous second! Max Anderson, again you continue not to disappoint this reader!

. In a world of TV and media coverage where violence and crime seem to win the day, Mysterious Cabin is a refreshing, thrilling story that also concentrates on the values that ensure a meaningful and peaceful life – yes, with plenty of mystery and adventure!

. Anderson is a genius at exciting plots, and sympathetic, interesting characters.

. I found myself reacting to events and wanting to keep reading despite interruptions around me. I think pre-teen boys would like this book, because the three boys are normal, believable characters. The facts presented in the book about wilderness camping, using signals, and what to do when faced with various dangers make the book even more believable and interesting.

Max Elliot Anderson

Author