E145: Big Themes Through Exciting Action: Into the Rapids with Ann Braden

On this episode of the KidLit Love podcast, I’m talking with Ann Braden about her newest middle grade novel: Into the Rapids.Ann writes beautiful books about kids learning to stand up for themselves when things are hard and in this book, readers also learn that even the most self-reliant of us need to be brave enough to ask for help sometimes. This is her third time on the podcast and each conversation is better than the last.Come listen as we talk about the inspiration behind the book, her trademark animal reference that appears in the pages and her hopes for the book to engage readers and help them feel big feelings, too. You’ll find the show notes for the episode with links to all of the books and resources mentioned right here: https://www.alitlife.com/2025/07/03/big-themes-through-exciting-action-into-the-rapids-with-ann-braden/Join me inside my Facebook community for bookish people! There, we talk about all things books and reading and writing and notebooking, too! You'll get updates for this podcast, along with my other Get Lit(erate). podcast and build your literate community for adult and children's literature: https://www.facebook.com/groups/getliterateIf you’d like to support the podcast, consider purchasing some KidLit Love merchandise from my Zazzle store: https://www.zazzle.com/store/alitlife All earnings are funneled right back into the podcast expenses and maintenance fees. Thanks for your support!Follow Stephanie:Website: http://www.alitlife.com/   Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/AffinitoLitInstagram: http://www.instagram.com/AffinitoLitTwitter: http://www.twitter.com/AffinitoLit This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kidlitlove.substack.com