Hey everyone!

I’m practically bouncing off the walls with excitement because my latest middle-grade novel is officially out in the world! Charles the Chuckling Chicken is now available on Amazon, in both e-book and paperback versions. I can’t wait for you and your young readers to meet this wonderfully awkward Bird Boy.

What’s This Book About?

Close your eyes, and picture this:

You’re a quiet seventh-grader who loves to document birds. You just want nothing more than to make it through the school year without embarrassing yourself. Then one morning, you accidentally blurt out something crazy like “Hot flaming flamingos! It’s the great bell beast of Southern Pine!” Suddenly, everyone thinks you’re the school’s new comedy star, and no matter how much you try to tell them you aren’t, nobody listens. That’s exactly what happens to our protagonist, who finds himself facing the ultimate challenge. Even he can’t figure out how he ends up performing in the talent show while wearing a chicken costume his mom made for him. 

This story is all about those cringe-worthy moments we’ve all had and how sometimes our biggest embarrassments can become our greatest strengths. It’s for readers aged 8-12 who love laughing, relating to awkward situations, and cheering for underdogs who find the courage to be themselves.

What’s Coming Next?

Zen, Tigger, and I are pulling long hours working on not one, but TWO new projects. 

First up is a middle-grade mystery with a sprinkle of magic in it. I’m hoping to get this one into your hands before the year wraps up. (Assuming Zen will give up a few belly rubs and let me get more typing done. ) 

I’m also working on a special novella that will serve as a bridge between Edward the Dragon Hearted and book 2 of the series, which has a working title of The Key to the Past. Think of it as book 1.5. 

Both projects are still in the early stages, and I’m even working on some illustrations to help bring the stories to life.

The mystery has been such a fun change for me, and adding a little touch of magic has kept me guessing right alongside my characters. As for the novella, longtime readers will get to dive deeper into the world of Norland and how life is going for the villagers of Swithorn. 

A Little Favor?

If you pick up Charles the Chuckling Chicken, I’d love to hear what you think! Please send me a friendly email letting me know what you or your young reader thinks of the story. I read every single message, and they always brighten my day. 

And if you have a chance, please leave a quick review on Amazon or Goodreads, or share your thoughts about the book on social media. 

Thank You!

Writing for middle-grade readers makes me so happy, because this age group isn’t afraid to laugh out loud, feel deeply, or embrace the wonderfully weird parts of growing up. Thank you for being part of this crazy writing journey with me and for sharing these stories with the young people in your lives.

As always, Zen, Tigger, and I are happy you’re coming along on our adventures!

Happy reading,
Arden Wren-Shade

P.S. Keep an eye out for updates on those upcoming releases. I have a feeling this is going to be an exciting end to the year! And I’m already dreaming of the next story for 2026!