E229: Finding Your Way: FIFTH GRADE TOP DOGS by Jerry Spinelli episode artwork

EPISODE · Jun 11, 2026 · 17 MIN

E229: Finding Your Way: FIFTH GRADE TOP DOGS by Jerry Spinelli

from Kidlit Love: Conversations with Picture Book and Middle Grade Authors · host Stephanie Affinito

Hello Everyone, As promised, here’s the bonus episode I mentioned earlier in the week with Jerry Spinelli. From my first teaching position to now, his books have been in my classroom library and my home bookshelf and I’m thrilled to help him launch his newest release!Keep scrolling to get all the details on the new podcast episode!Happy reading!StephanieE229: Finding Your Way: FIFTH GRADE TOP DOGS by Jerry SpinelliOn this episode of the KidLit Love podcast, I’m talking with Jerry Spinelli about his newest middle grade novel: FIFTH GRADE TOP DOGS.This book is part of his RUN THE SCHOOL series and follows George (aka Suds) as he figures out if he has what it takes to be a top dog at his school. This book might have fifth grade in the title, but it’s truly a book for every reader on the precipice of change, trying to figure out what comes next.Come listen as we talk about the title-first way the original book in the series was born, a departure from how Jerry usually works, the one word in his philosophy of writing for children that changes everything and his goal to write a good story where meaning, message and guidance come along for the ride. This was truly a pinch-me moment to have such a thoughtful conversation with an author I admire.Here is the book featured in this episode. You’ll find links to my Amazon and Bookshop affiliate stores below. Thanks for your bookish support!FIFTH GRADE TOP DOGS by Jerry Spinelli (Amazon / Bookshop)Here’s where you can find Jerry online:Website: https://jerryspinelliauthor.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jerryspinelli1I’d love to know what you think of this episode. Share your comments below!KidLit love is multiplied when it’s shared! 🩷Here are some free ways to support this newsletter and spread my love of chilren’’s literature far and wide:🩷 Like and comment on this post so we can connect!🔄 Restack and add your favorite nugget from the podcast.📷 Take a screenshot of your favorite part and text it to a kidlit friend.💌 Forward this email to a fellow kidlit colleague so they can join the book love too!⌨️ Refer a friend and earn prizes….including courses and coaching sessions with me!Thanks for reading the KidLit Love newsletter! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work! 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

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E229: Finding Your Way: FIFTH GRADE TOP DOGS by Jerry Spinelli

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How long is this episode of Kidlit Love: Conversations with Picture Book and Middle Grade Authors?

This episode is 17 minutes long.

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This episode was published on June 11, 2026.

What is this episode about?

Hello Everyone, As promised, here’s the bonus episode I mentioned earlier in the week with Jerry Spinelli. From my first teaching position to now, his books have been in my classroom library and my home bookshelf and I’m thrilled to help him launch...

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