BOOKANISTAS: Mulling Middle Grade series

Having just sent off a completed manuscript, and in the midst of working on freelance book marketing job, my tbr pile is threatening to crush my bookshelf.  You'd think adding to books to the top, Jenga-style would be bad idea. So, of course, I'm doing it. I've been writing YA for a long time and my writer friends all know how I adore writing kissing scenes.  But I've written a lot of kisses lately and right now I've got an idea that feels more middle grade. As I contemplate developing it into a manuscript, I'm thinking back to middle grade series I've enjoyed, and seeking recommendations from my kids (alas, these are rather boy-book heavy), and making a new pile.  Here's where I'm starting...

THE SHADOW CHILDREN  by Margaret Peterson Haddix
SKULLDUGGERY PLEASANT by Derek Landy & Tom Percival
BETSY & TACY by Maude Hart Lovelace
PERCY JACKSON by Rick Riordan
THE MELENDY QUARTET by Elizabeth Enright
GREGOR THE OVERLANDER by Suzanne Collins
DEAR AMERICA (various authors)

I realize it's a bit of an odd mixture of paranormal and historical (or just old) titles.  Please do share any suggestions you may have to round out my list.

And here's what's on the minds of some of my lovely Bookanista friends...

Christine Fonseca interviews author L.K. Gardner-Griffie

Corinne Jackson announces Change Write Now: Round 2 signups are open
Carolina Valdez Miller adores UNDER THE NEVER SKY - with giveaway
Jen Hayley as a passion for PARTIALS
Debra Driza falls for THE FAULT IN OUR STARS
Jessica Love shares some TIME BETWEEN US cover talk
Tracy Banghart jumps for CATCHING JORDAN

LiLa Roecker is enthralled with THE NIGHT CIRCUS