Q&A with Lori Orlinsky

 

 

Lori Orlinsky is the author of the new children's picture book Being Middle (Is a Great Place to Be). Her other books include Being Small (Isn't So Bad After All). 

 

Q: What inspired you to write Being Middle?

A: My daughter Ellie is the middle child in our family, sandwiched between two sisters. Watching her navigate the highs and lows of being “in the middle”—sometimes feeling overlooked, sometimes feeling like the glue that holds everyone together—was incredibly eye-opening.

 

I realized there weren’t many children’s books that speak directly to that experience. I wanted to write a story that not only validated those feelings but also showed that being in the middle can be something really special.

Q: What do you see as the relationship between this book and your book Being Small?

 

A: Being Middle, like Being Small, is part of my Being Me series, which celebrates kids exactly as they are. Both books take a perceived “negative” identity—being the shortest in the class or being stuck in the middle—and reframe it as a unique strength.

 

These stories aim to boost self-esteem and help kids embrace what makes them different. They’re really about turning challenges into superpowers.

Q: What do you think Vanessa Alexandre’s illustrations add to the book?

 

A: Vanessa has an incredible gift for capturing emotion in a playful, relatable way. She brought Ellie’s character to life with so much warmth and personality—from the dramatic eye rolls to the quiet moments of feeling unseen. Her vibrant, expressive illustrations perfectly match the tone of the book, adding humor and heart that make the story even more impactful.

 

Q: What do you hope kids take away from the story?

 

A: I hope middle children see themselves and feel seen. I want them to understand that their voice matters, their role is important, and there are unique strengths in being adaptable, independent, and resilient.

 

And for kids who aren’t middle children, I hope the book sparks empathy and helps them appreciate the different experiences their siblings and classmates may have.

Q: What are you working on now?

A: I’m thinking of topics for the next Being Me book.

Q: Anything else we should know?

 

A: Being Middle released on National Middle Child Day—August 12, which is the perfect moment to celebrate middle kids and give them a little extra love. As a mom and an author, this book is deeply personal, and I’m so excited to share it with the world—especially with families who have a middle child of their own.

 

--Interview with Deborah Kalb. This Q&A was conducted in partnership with Lori Orlinsky. Enter this giveaway for a chance to win a hardcover copy of Being Middle (is a great place to be) along with a $25 Barnes & Noble gift card!