On this episode of the Middle Grade Matters podcast, host Shannon Balloon welcomes back Claire Swinarski, an Edgar Award-nominated author, to discuss her latest middle grade book, Take It From The Top. The conversation delves into the themes of friendship, competition, and personal growth, as well as the complexities of writing from multiple perspectives and timelines. The episode also touches on Claire&apos;s journey as a writer, the editing process, and her upcoming projects. Claire emphasizes the significance of comfort and connection in literature for young readers, while also recommending several recent reads that have inspired her.<a href='https://modem-futura.simplecast.com' target='_blank'>Modem Futura</a> Modem Futura is your guide to the bold frontiers of tomorrow, where technology,... Listen on: <a href='https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1771688480' target='_blank'>Apple Podcasts</a> &nbsp; <a href='https://open.spotify.com/show/3eFl4hY4t1qTCWE2Bxotrg' target='_blank'>Spotify</a>For bonus content and info on upcoming episodes, subscribe to the Middle Grade Matters newsletter here: <a href='https://www.shannonballoon.com/newsletter'>Newsletter</a>, and follow us on <a href='https://www.instagram.com/middlegradematterspodcast/'>Instagram</a>, <a href='https://www.threads.net/@middlegradematterspodcast?hl=en'>Threads</a>, and <a href='https://twitter.com/middlegpodcast'>Twitter</a>. I love audiobooks! If you do, too, consider switching to <a href='https://libro.fm/middlegradematters'>Libro.fm</a>, a platform that supports indy bookstores. If you&apos;re enjoying this podcast, please leave a rating and review (thank you!).