Laurel Snyder

Laurel Snyder is an American children's author and poet born in 1974 in Baltimore, Maryland. She graduated from the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga and earned an advanced degree from the Iowa Writers' Workshop at the University of Iowa. Snyder has established herself as a prolific writer of both children's novels and picture books, with twelve of her works selected as Junior Library Guild books. Her popular Charlie & Mouse series, which began in 2017, follows the adventures of two young brothers and has expanded to include multiple titles. Among her most notable works is "Orphan Island" (2017), a middle-grade novel that garnered significant attention, and "Swan" (2015), which was recognized by Bank Street College of Education as one of the best books of 2016. Beyond her books, Snyder contributes to NPR's All Things Considered as a commentator. Currently based in Atlanta, Georgia, Snyder continues to produce children's literature while balancing her role as a writer with family life. Her work spans various formats and age groups within children's literature, from early reader books to more complex middle-grade novels.

Readers consistently rate Snyder's books between 4.1-4.5 stars across platforms, with her Charlie & Mouse series and "Orphan Island" receiving the most reviews. What readers liked: - Clear, engaging writing style for young readers - Natural dialogue between siblings in Charlie & Mouse books - Ability to blend realistic situations with magical elements - Strong character development in middle-grade novels What readers disliked: - Some found "Orphan Island" ending too ambiguous - Occasional pacing issues in longer works - A few parents noted some books tackle complex themes their children weren't ready for Review Statistics: Goodreads: - Orphan Island: 4.0/5 (9,800+ ratings) - Charlie & Mouse: 4.2/5 (2,100+ ratings) - Swan: 4.3/5 (1,200+ ratings) Amazon: - Charlie & Mouse series averages 4.5/5 - Picture books average 4.4/5 - Middle-grade novels average 4.2/5 Parent reviewers frequently mention her books work well for read-alouds and generate meaningful discussions with children.

Up and Down the Scratchy Mountains (2008) A young milkmaid named Lucy embarks on a quest through the Scratchy Mountains to find her missing mother and understand why her best friend suddenly seems distant.

Orphan Island (2017) Nine children live alone on a mysterious island where once a year, a boat delivers a new young child and takes the eldest away.

Charlie & Mouse (2017) Two brothers experience everyday adventures together, from planning a neighborhood party to trying to sell rocks.

Swan: The Life and Dance of Anna Pavlova (2015) A biographical picture book that follows the life of renowned ballet dancer Anna Pavlova from her humble beginnings to her rise as a prima ballerina.

Seven Stories Up (2014) A girl travels back in time to 1937 Baltimore where she meets her grandmother as a young girl and helps change her family's future.

Bigger than a Bread Box (2011) A twelve-year-old girl discovers a magical bread box that grants wishes, but learns that magic comes with unexpected consequences.

Charlie & Mouse Even Better (2019) Brothers Charlie and Mouse work together to create the perfect birthday surprise for their mother.

Charlie & Mouse & Grumpy (2017) Two brothers spend time with their visiting grandfather, whom they call Grumpy, through a series of connected adventures.

Rebecca Stead writes middle-grade novels that blend realism with elements of mystery and complex emotional themes. Her books explore similar coming-of-age experiences and family dynamics as Snyder's work.

Holly Goldberg Sloan creates character-driven stories focusing on young people finding their place in the world. Her books deal with themes of belonging and identity while maintaining focus on family relationships.

Anne Ursu combines everyday life with touches of magic in her middle-grade novels. She writes about children facing challenges and changes while incorporating elements of fantasy and mythology.

Sara Pennypacker writes stories centered on strong child protagonists navigating family situations and personal growth. Her work spans multiple age ranges and formats, including both chapter books and middle-grade novels.

Linda Urban creates narratives about children dealing with change and self-discovery in realistic settings. Her books focus on small moments and relationships while exploring larger themes about growing up.