Episode 47: Katie O. Engen author of Hello, Neighbors! Small-Town Living in Big City Suburbs: Quick Reads to Cultivate Community & Fun Activities to Foster Connection Where You Live

In this episode, we chat with Katie O. Engen, a writer, educator, and “word-play specialist” who blends science, teaching, and storytelling to create meaningful children’s books in addition to her latest Hello, Neighbors! book for adults. She shares how her experience in classrooms, curriculum development, homeschooling, and science outreach shapes her writing and resources for young readers. We talk about making big ideas—like dental health and habits—fun and understandable for kids. She also reflects on feedback from children and educators. Plus, she reveals the authors who inspired her, and gives us a sneak peek at what’s next. Where to find Katie and her work: Visit Katie’s own website at katieengen.com Check out her page at the Kensington Row Authors site Purchase her books through Bookshop.org, which supports independent bookstores If you’re passionate about children’s literature, education rooted in fun, and the power of words to open worlds, this episode is one you won’t want to miss.