Spotlight on Middle Grade - Publishing Trends

Young adult literature has been a huge catalyst and money-maker for publishing over the past few years. Beyond the books, the category's given birth to several multimillion dollar franchises and new Hollywood stars. With all of the glamour and glitz that can come out of the YA world, it's easy to forget about the rest of children's literature. No, not board books or picture books: I'm talking about middle grade. According to Nielsen, it's not the highest-selling segment of the children's book market, but it's still pulling big numbers. Middle grade titles contend with the YA stars like John Green and their sales can rival the standard baby-shower gift titles like The Very Hungry Caterpillar and Green Eggs and Ham - so it's time for them to share in the spotlight.