So… Eighth Grade Happened Is Now Available for Preorder

So... Eighth Grade Happened cover, middle school boy with backpack, coming-of-age story.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

April 18th, 2026
Paper Trails Publishing
media@papertrailspublishing.com

A Relatable Story That Helps Young Readers Feel Seen, Understood, and Not Alone

Paper Trails Publishing is proud to introduce So… Eighth Grade Happened: A Year That Shaped Me by Cole K. Larksen—a heartfelt, student-written story that captures the real experiences of middle school as they unfold.

Written during his eighth-grade year, this reflective and honest narrative explores the moments that often go unspoken—friendships shifting, pressure building, and the quiet process of figuring out where you fit. It offers readers a chance to see their own thoughts and feelings reflected back in a way that feels real and validating.

Designed for ages 10–14, this story is ideal for independent reading, classroom discussions, or shared moments between students, parents, and educators. Whether read in one sitting or revisited over time, it encourages connection, reflection, and the understanding that growing up doesn’t come with all the answers—and that’s okay.

📖 About the Book

Title: So... Eighth Grade Happened, A Year That Shaped Me
Author: Cole K. Larksen

Genre: Middle Grade Contemporary Coming of Age Fiction

Audience: Ages 10-14, Parents, Educators
Publisher: Paper Trails Publishing
Publication Date: April 18th, 2026

Format(s): Paperback, eBook, Audiobook

Language: English

Release Date: June 9, 2026

ISBN

Paperback: 979-8-9953653-5-8
eBook: 979-8-9953653-6-5

Audiobook: 979-8-9953653-7-2

Page Count

Hardcover: 40

eBook: 34

Audiobook Length: ~25 minutes

💬 What Readers Are Saying

—A Voice That Feels Real
“This feels exactly like what kids go through—but rarely say out loud. It’s honest, relatable, and needed.” —Educator

—A Window Into the Middle School Experience
“I saw parts of my own child in this story. It helped me understand what they might not always express.” —Parent

—A Story That Stays With You
“It made me realize I’m not the only one figuring things out as I go.” —Student

🔑 Key Themes

Identity & self-discovery
Friendship & social change
Confidence & self-esteem
Growth through challenges
Peer pressure & belonging
Emotional awareness & reflection
Navigating change
The middle school experience

🛒 Where to Preorder & Listen

📘 Be among the first to own the paperback edition available right here at papertrailspublishing.com.

📱 Step into the story early with the digital edition.Available for preorder at:

…and wherever you enjoy reading eBooks.

🎧 Secure Your Audiobook Today 🎧Available for preorder wherever you listen.

About the Author

Cole K. Larksen is a young writer whose work explores the emotional realities of growing up, identity, friendship, and self-discovery. Written during his middle school years, So… Eighth Grade Happened: A Year That Shaped Me reflects an honest and thoughtful perspective designed to help readers feel seen, understood, and connected through shared experiences.

About the Publisher

PAPER TRAILS PUBLISHING is an independent publishing house dedicated to emotionally intelligent storytelling that nurtures growth, resilience, reflection, and belonging across generations.

Media Contact

PAPER TRAILS PUBLISHING
media@papertrailspublishing.com
Paper Trails Publishing

A story that reminds us growing up doesn’t come with all the answers—but no one has to figure it out alone.