Authors Victoria E. Pannell and Thorir Sigfusson join Reading in the Middle to discuss The Crow’s Tales, their bright and funny mystery series starring a ten-year-old boy, a loyal crew of friends, and one unforgettable crow named Ralph. From bake sales and bullies to ruby rings and remote-control car races, we explore how their books blend real-life feelings with big adventure — and why writing as a team created a voice all their own.

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Featured Titles:

• The Bird Caper – Brandon’s world is turned upside down when his pet crow is accused of stealing, and neighborhood tensions reveal unexpected allies and new beginnings.

• The Big Dream – Brandon and his friends try to build a remote-controlled car in time for a big race — and learn lessons about teamwork, grit, and community.

• The Crow’s Ring—A decades-old heist, a ruby ring, and a tugboat that needs saving send Brandon and the crew on their biggest mystery yet.

In this episode:

• The origin of Ralph the crow

• How to balance mystery, humor, and emotion for middle-grade readers

• What it’s like to co-write a book series

• Why Maplewood, the setting, feels so real

• The power of friendship, persistence, and bugs that save the day 🐞

Connect with the Authors:

• https://pannellsigfusson.com/

📚 Support local:
Find The Crow’s Tales at your library or order from your favorite indie bookstore.

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