Yorkshire Publishing celebrates National Middle Child Day with release of Being Middle
Yorkshire Publishing has released Being Middle (is a great place to be), the newest picture book from bestselling author and veteran journalist Lori Orlinsky. Published to coincide with National Middle Child Day (August 12, 2025), the book is the second title in Orlinsky’s BEING ME series and marks her fifth published book overall.
Being Middle follows a child navigating life between an older sibling who “does everything first” and a younger sibling who “gets all the attention,” ultimately discovering the unique strengths and joys of being in the middle. Inspired by Orlinsky’s daughter Ellie, the story is told with humor and heart and aims to reassure children who may feel overlooked in their families.
“This book is a celebration of the wonderful quirks that make middle children who they are,” Orlinsky said. “They may fall in the middle, but their place in the family — and the world — is anything but ordinary.”
The title has already drawn attention from advocates for middle children. Bruce Hopman, founder of the International Middle Child Union, commented, “There is no cure for Middle Child Syndrome. But this book, and Lori’s approach to raising a Middle Child, might be the closest thing.”
Being Middle follows Orlinsky’s bestselling debut Being Small (isn’t so bad after all), which won more than a dozen awards for its message of self-acceptance and emotional resilience. Being Middle (ISBN: 978-0881441055) is available beginning August 12 on Amazon and wherever books are sold.
Why this matters
– Representation: Picture books that acknowledge family dynamics help young children name and process feelings about their roles at home. A middle-child focus fills a niche less commonly explored in children’s publishing.
– Timing: Launching on National Middle Child Day gives the book a natural spotlight and promotional opportunity for parents, educators, and libraries.
Quick summary
Being Middle is a picture book that follows a child who initially feels lost between siblings but learns to appreciate the “magic” of being in the middle. The story mixes light humor with an affirming message aimed at young readers and their caregivers.
Suggestions for use (additional value)
– Read-alouds: The book is well suited for preschool and early-elementary read-aloud sessions where caregivers can pause to discuss feelings.
– Discussion prompts for children: What makes your place in the family special? Can you name one thing you like about being you?
– Classroom or library activity: Create a “middle powers” poster where children draw or list strengths pets, friends, or family members associate with being in the middle—leadership, peacemaking, creativity, etc.
– Promotion ideas for retailers/events: Host a National Middle Child Day storytime, offer signed copies or meet-and-greet with the author (where available), or pair the book with a related crafts table (make-your-own “middle” crown).
Suggested metadata and social copy for WordPress posting
– Meta description: Lori Orlinsky’s Being Middle, released for National Middle Child Day, offers a warm, humorous celebration of what it means to be a middle child. Available Aug. 12, 2025 (ISBN 978-0881441055).
– Suggested tags: Lori Orlinsky, Being Middle, picture books, children’s books, National Middle Child Day, family, parenting, Yorkshire Publishing
– Social blurb (Twitter/X/Instagram): New release: Being Middle by Lori Orlinsky—out today for National Middle Child Day. A funny, heartwarming picture book that celebrates the unique magic of middle children. ISBN 978-0881441055.
Hopeful perspective
Books that validate a child’s feelings and family role can boost confidence and belonging. Being Middle adds to a growing body of children’s literature that helps kids see themselves reflected in stories, offering reassurance and celebration rather than omission.
If you’d like, I can draft a shorter social post, create a storytime lesson plan, or suggest interview questions for Lori Orlinsky to use in publicity events.