This story will always be close to my heart, as I initially created The Middle as a birthday present for my partner. It may not be surprising to anyone but the hamster is inspired by myself and the hare is my partner Callan.

My whole life, I have strongly identified with hamsters and their introverted tendencies. While Callan has always been a spry and athletic extrovert. Due to our varying ideas of fun pastime activities, we have been able to enrich each other's lives greatly. I was musing over this aspect of our relationship one day when I realized that I could turn the concept into a gift for Callan's birthday. (2020) Thus, The Middle was born! I hope you enjoy it.