On this episode of the KidLit Love podcast, I’m talking with Tiffany D. Jackson about her middle grade debut novel: BLOOD IN THE WATER.

This book is a can’t-put-it-down middle grade murder mystery set on Martha’s Vineyard that blends the beautiful location with rich Black history and the compelling subject matter that Tiffany is known for. 

Come listen as we talk about Tiffany’s journey through children’s literature and how she came to fill a niche in the young adult and middle grade thriller space, her thoughts on rejection and redirection, why she chose Martha’s Vineyard for the setting of the book and her hopes for readers of all ages. 

You’ll find the show notes for the episode with links to all of the books and resources mentioned right here: https://www.alitlife.com/2025/07/28/middle-grade-thrillers-blood-in-the-water-by-tiffany-d-jackson/

Join me inside my Facebook community for bookish people! There, we talk about all things books and reading and writing and notebooking, too! You'll get updates for this podcast, along with my other Get Lit(erate). podcast and build your literate community for adult and children's literature: https://www.facebook.com/groups/getliterate

If you’d like to support the podcast, consider purchasing some KidLit Love merchandise from my Zazzle store: https://www.zazzle.com/store/alitlife 

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