BookHuddle with Readgab

Casting April by Wendy Lu is partly based on Wendy's own youth experiences with theatre and living with a tracheostomy tube. While April is partly based on Wendy as a youth, April has a lot of her own experiences as well. We get to hear all about parts of the story that were very much a part of Wendy's own life as well as other important moments like the unexpected friends April encounters and surprising layers to a teacher who could have been the villian for April. Find middle grade author Wendy Luhttps://www.wendyluwrites.com/https://www.instagram.com/wendyluwrites/https://www.amazon.com/Casting-April-Wendy-Lu/dp/B0FRDMD3MZ/Wendy Lu is a journalist, a children’s book author, and a global speaker on disability representation in the media. She is a deputy editor at The New York Times and has covered disability, politics and culture for the last 10 years. Her work has appeared in HuffPost, Teen Vogue, Refinery29 and more. Wendy is the author of “Casting April,” a middle-grade novel from Penguin Random House about a girl who is determined to land the starring role in her school's play — except nobody believes she can do it because of her disability. "Casting April" was selected for the Indie Next List and the Indies Introduce List in 2026. She lives in New York with her husband, Andrew, and their turtle, Little Cloud.Casting April by Wendy LuTwelve-year-old April is a talented performer who is determined to land the starring role in the school play, but no one believes she can do it because of her tracheostomy tube. A heartwarming story of friendship, identity, and the importance of chasing your dreams.Sixth grader April Xue lives and breathes all things Broadway. When she builds up the courage to audition for the lead role in the school play, she thinks she’s knocked it out of the park—until she finds out that she’s been assigned to the stage crew. April is devastated—it seems like the curtain is closing on her dream of being an actor. A day later, April overhears that the theater director, Ms. Rooney,  decided not to cast her because she’s disabled. With the help of her best friend, a sneaky student reporter, and her spirited castmates, April learns to confront her own insecurities as a performer and proves to everyone (including Ms. Rooney) that she deserves a fair shot—all in time for opening night.Chapters00:00 Meet middle grade author Wendy Lu03:01 What is Casting April by Wendy Lu about?05:18 How is Casting April personal for Wendy? Was theatre something Wendy did as a youth?08:50 Developing a middle school theatre story with disability representation12:34 Finding friends in unexpected places13:50 Parent relationships and the importance of kids letting their parents know what they need16:43 Are any of Wendy’s other characters in Casting April based on real people from her life?20:18 How to appropriately talk to someone about their trach tube?24:14 What surprised Wendy when writing Casting April26:59 If Wendy could get a message to her teenage self what would she tell her?28:50 What else would Wendy like for readers to take away from Casting April30:13 What is next for author Wendy Lu?31:09 Wendy’s book recommendation33:01 What to read next if you loved Casting April?

LIberty Biscuit and Little Pearl by Melanie Sue Bowles Find author Melanie Sue BowlesChapters00:00 Meet middle grade author Melanie Sue Bowles03:50 What is Liberty Biscuit about?07:53 How did Melanie create the story?10:27 A happy/strong family that has weaknesses13:05 A mixed race family in a story15:40 How did Melanie end up with rescue horses on her farm?16:55 Real horses and donkeys Liberty Biscuit is based onAround 19:30 ish How Liberty Biscuit teaches us empathy21:35 What is next for author Melanie Sue Bowles25:46 Melanie’s book recommendation

Do you remember the moment you fell in love with reading? Or a magical moment in a story that stuck with you forever? In this episode I talk with author Jessica Khoury about creating her newest book, Monster and Apprentice, how the story developed, how she discovered its themes, and all of the magical moments that go along with a writer's journey. Jessica Khoury is the author of many books for teens and young readers. Her stories have been translated into over a dozen languages and have been finalists for awards like the South Carolina Junior Book Award, the Ignyte Award, the Maine Student Book Award, the Oklahoma Sequoyah Masterlist, the Amelia Bloomer Project, and many more. Her bestselling middle grade debut The Mystwick School of Musicraft was named one of the Best Audiobooks of 2019 by Audible and is one of the Top 20 Most Listened-To children's books of all time.Jess comes from a family of immigrants and currently lives in Greenville, South Carolina with her husband and daughters. She spends free time hiking in the mountains, playing video games, and sketching new characters for new stories. Her stories draw inspiration from the world around her, her own childhood, and her Scottish and Syrian-Palestinian heritage.Find author Jessica Khouryhttps://www.jessicakhoury.com/https://www.instagram.com/authorjess/https://www.facebook.com/authorjessicakhouryhttps://www.pinterest.com/jesskhoury/https://jnkhoury.blogspot.com/Monster and Apprentice by Jessica Khoury https://www.amazon.com/Monster-Apprentice-Jessica-Khoury/dp/1665990112/Chapters00:00 Meet middle grade author Jessica Khoury05:08 What is Monster and Apprentice by Jessica Khoury about?10:04 On world building13:15 How Jessica came up with the idea for Monster and Apprentice15:43 When writing fantasy do authors plan themes in to their books?20:10 When Jessica had a brilliant writer moment when she was struck with inspiration that was perfect for her book22:11 A moment that a child loved in one of Jessica’s books23:47 What was the moment that Jessica knew that she was an author?26:16 What was the moment that led Jessica to being published?28:46 Does Jessica illustrate her own books?29:45 What is next for author Jessica Khoury35:10 Jessica’s book recommendation37:03 What to read next if you have loved reading Monster and Apprentice

Nancy Hudgins is a nonfiction middle grade author of Books Good Enough for You: The Storied Life of Ursula Nordstrom. You will likely be familiar with many books that Ursula edited during her long career championing children's books: Goodnight Moon, Charlotte's Web, Where the Wild Things Are, Harriet the Spy. Nancy puts together a wonderful history about Ursula in a way that reads like someone is telling you a selection of stories. Hear more about it in this episode.Find Nancy Hudginshttps://nancyhudgins.com/books/books-good-enough-for-you/https://www.instagram.com/nancyhudginsbooks/Chapters00:00 Meet nonfiction author Nancy Hudgins06:05 What is Books Good Enough for You: The Storied Life of Ursula Nordstrom about?09:31 Nancy’s experience researching about Ursula Nordstrom12:20 What was most difficult in putting a nonfiction middle grade story together?16:33 Who was Nancy’s Ursula Nordstrom, who championed Books Good Enough for You?18:38 How has the publishing world changed since Ursula Nordstrom’s day?20:38 What got cut from the book that Nancy can share?25:27 What is Nancy’s favorite project that Ursula worked on?26:30 Does Nancy know anyone like Ursula? What does Nancy most admire about Ursula Nordstrom?28:18 The audiobook for Books Good Enough for You and how it came about? Narrated by Barbara Rosenblat29:55 How did Nancy come up with the title for Ursula’s story?31:32 What is next for author Nancy Hudgins?32:00 Nancy’s book recommendation34:05 What to read next if you loved Books Good Enough for You?

No one likes to fail. It isn’t fun. But it is how we grow. The way authors Kate and Nate illustrated this powerful theme while providing an entertaining story fascinated me and I am so thrilled that they joined me in this podcast episode to discuss it. I love all that I learned about their creation and the thoughts that went into Confessions of a Mango. There is so much more to the story than the importance of failure and I hope that you will enjoy hearing about it all in this episode and then go out and buy this amazing book!Find authors Kate and Natehttps://kateandnatebooks.com/https://www.instagram.com/confessionsofamangoConfessions of a Mango by Kate Lumsden and Nate Pieplow https://www.amazon.com/Confessions-Mango-Kate-Lumsden/dp/0316586072/Space Case by Stuart Gibbs https://www.amazon.com/Space-Case-Moon-Base-Alpha/dp/1442494867/Ramona books by Beverly Cleary https://www.amazon.com/Ramona-Collection-Vol-Beezus-Father/dp/0061246476/Frindle by Andrew Clements https://www.amazon.com/Frindle-Andrew-Clements/dp/0689818769/Fish in a Tree by Lynda Mullaly Hunt https://www.amazon.com/Fish-Tree-Lynda-Mullaly-Hunt/dp/0142426423/Chapters00:00 Meet authors Kate Lumsden and Nate Pieplow04:56 What is Confessions of a Mango by Kate and Nate about?07:03 How did Kate Lumsden and Nate Pieplow become a writing team?09:27 Did Kate base the main characters on both her and her brother?11:14 How to help kids see their strengths?16:17 The importance of failure24:38 How did the mango come into their story?26:10 What other fun elements did Kate and Nate add into their book?29:18 What influence did the authors have on the cover of their book?32:03 Overachievement culture in schools37:43 What is next for author duo Kate and Nate?41:00 Nate and Kate’s book recommendations44:14 What to read next if you loved Confessions of a Mango

Maria Dolores Aguila is both a picture book and middle grade author of historical fiction. Her novel in verse, A Sea of Lemon Trees won both a Newberry Honor and Pura Belpre Honor. Find out how this book has changed her and more in today's episode. Find author Maria Dolores Aguilahttps://mariadoloresaguila.com/https://www.instagram.com/maria.d.aguila/A Sea of Lemon Trees by Maria Dolores Aguila The Corrido of Roberto Alvarez https://www.amazon.com/Sea-Lemon-Trees-Corrido-Roberto/dp/1250342619/Chapters00:00 Meet author Maria Dolores Aguila02:29 What is A Sea of Lemon Trees The Corrido of Roberto Alvarez about?04:17 Why did Maria decide to use a real person from history for her middle grade historical fiction novel in verse?05:07 What inspired Maria to write A Sea of Lemon Trees?07:35 Why did Maria decide to make her debut middle grade a novel in verse?10:05 What was it like to research for a middle grade historical fiction?11:56 What was the most exciting thing to discover while researching for A Sea of Lemon Trees?13:08 What made Maria most emotional when writing A Sea of Lemon Trees?14:52 Is Maria the same person she was when she started writing A Sea of Lemon Trees? How does writing a story change a person?18:05 What is personal for Maria in A Sea of Lemon Trees?19:39 How Maria came up with the title for A Sea of Lemon Trees20:37 Was Maria involved in the creation of the cover for A Sea of Lemon Trees?21:50 What does author Maria hope that A Sea of Lemon Trees will do for readers?23:28 What is next for author Maria Dolores Aguila?24:40 Maria’s book recommendation25:20 Maria’s comp titles for A Sea of Lemon Trees

When Diane Debrovner decided to write a middle grade book about a character with blind parents she decided that she would like a coauthor and so she approached her friend Stacy Cervenka. Stacy adds her unique perspective with her blindness and the experiences she knows about many other individuals. Diane also brings us an animal's point of view as many chapters in the book are told from the persective of a guide dog. While we sometimes get disability representation in the main character in middle grade books, Roxie in Color brings us disability representation in the parents of the main character.Find authors Diane Debrovner and Stacy Cervenkahttps://stacycervenka.com/https://www.dianedebrovner.com/https://www.instagram.com/diane.debrovner/https://www.instagram.com/stacycervenka/Roxie in Color by Diane Debrovner and Stacy Cervenkahttps://www.amazon.com/Roxie-Color-Diane-Debrovner/dp/1536246603/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0Chapters00:00 Meet authors Diane Debrovner and Stacy Cervenka03:46 What is Roxie in Color about?04:47 How Diane Debrovner and Stacy Cervenka become writing partners to coauthor Roxie in Color?06:56 How Stacy and Diane decided to share their words through story?12:13 What do the authors hope that sighted people will get from reading Roxie in Color?13:59 What do the authors hope that a blind person will get from reading Roxie in Color?18:18 What benefits do the authors hope that mixed families, where some members are sighted and some are blind, will get from reading Roxie in Color?20:39 Is it appropriate to ask a blind person about their blindness? And how to go about these conversations?30:28 Where can you get information about blind people?32:25 How to help blind kids with their expectations for themselves? And how to help adults have high expectations for blind people as well?35:12 A dog’s point of view in Roxie in color. Blind people and guide dogs.42:55 Diane and Stacy’s book recommendations.

Caldecott Award Winning author and illustrator Matthew Cordell talks about the importance of curiosity and how this trait features in his newest picture book, 102. I was so surprised to discover that the brilliantly illustrated picture book was drawn with a multi-color pen. Learn more about this fascinating creator in today's interview. Find Matthew Cordellhttps://www.matthewcordell.com/https://www.instagram.com/cordell_matthew/https://www.facebook.com/cordellmatthew102 by Matthew Cordell https://www.amazon.com/102-Matthew-Cordell/dp/0316580953/A Potion a Powder and a Little Bit of Magic or Like Lightning in an Umbrella Storm a Story Out of Order by Philip Stead https://www.amazon.com/Potion-Powder-Little-Bit-Magic/dp/0823458091/Chapters 00:00 Meet picture book author and illustrator Matthew Cordell05:21 What is the picture book, 102 by Matthew Cordell, about ?09:30 How Matthew Cordell created the story and pictures for 10215:28 How Matthew goes about writing the text for his picture books?18:19 The multi-colored pen Matthew used to illustrate 10229:28 Believe the Unbelievable - how to help kids do this32:35 What is next for author and illustrator Matthew Cordell34:20 Matthew’s book recommendation

Have you ever wondered about the greatest aspects about being an author? Or about the lowest moments? While discussing PJ Gardner's newest book I thought it was the perfect time to delve into some of these questions since the title of this book is: Worst in Show.Find author PJ Gardnerhttps://www.pjgardnerswitzer.com/https://www.instagram.com/pjgardnerswitzer/Worst in Show by PJ Gardner https://www.amazon.com/Worst-Show-PJ-Gardner/dp/0063134764/Reach by Celesta Rimington https://www.amazon.com/Reach-Celesta-Rimington/dp/0593860306/Monster Tree by Sarah Allen https://www.amazon.com/Monster-Tree-Sarah-Allen/dp/0374390975/Chapters00:00 Meet middle grade author PJ Gardner07:22 What is Worst in Show by PJ Gardner about?11:26 What was the worst part about writing the book Worst in Show?12:55 The best part about writing Worst in Show?13:44 What is the worst part about being a writer?14:54 What is the best part about being a writer or author?15:38 What is the worst review someone has given one of your books?20:20 The best feedback or review you have ever received on a book you wrote?22:03 Worst and best things about dogs? Worst and best things about ferrets and weasels?25:03 The worst and best things about friendship?26:13 The worst and best things about fashion?27:45 The worst and best things about food?29:39 What was the worst thing about starting a career as a traditionally published author?32:21 The worst and best things about starting a brand new book?35:05 The worst and best things about attending writers conferences?37:05 What is next for author PJ Gardner?38:53 PJ’s book recommendations

Chapters00:00 Meet illustrator Carmen Mok02:48 How did Carmen Mok get into illustrating books05:15 What made Carmen want to stay in illustration?08:39 Carmen’s process from start to finish for when her illustrations are in a published work12:16 How the art directors feedback effects Carmen’s illustrations13:53 After Carmen receives the manuscript what does she do to enhance the story through illustrations?15:14 What is Carmen’s hope that readers notice about images throughout Orris and Timble?17:26 Working with Kate DiCamillo19:56 One of Carmen’s favorite images she created for Orris and Timble22:17 Has anything surprised Carmen in her journey as an illustrator?25:10 How does Carmen continue to grow as an artist?30:38 What is next for creator Carmen Mok?28:40 Carmen’s book recommendation

Bring on the high stakes tension! April Henry is a New York Times bestelling author of young adult and adult fiction books. In this episode we discuss her 32nd book, In the Blood. What is it like to go all in researching for these thrillers and what are some of April's experiences with writing them. Find author April Henryhttps://www.aprilhenry.com/https://www.instagram.com/aprilhenrybooks/In the Blood by April Henry https://www.amazon.com/Blood-April-Henry/dp/0316586218/That's Not My Name: A Pulse-Pounding YA Thriller of Secrets, Lies, and Betrayal by Megan Lally https://www.amazon.com/Thats-Not-Name-Megan-Lally/dp/1728270111/Chapters00:00 Meet author April Henry04:42 What is In The Blood by April Henry about?06:33 Researching for In the Blood14:27 Are April’s stories ever based on real stories?16:53 The main character is a writer, how is April’s writing like her own character’s experiences 19:00 Who is April’s first reader when she finishes a draft?20:37 Reader’s reactions that April loves?21:46 Why do readers love thrillers and books with high tension?23:57 When April was a child she sent a story to Roald Dahl and it was published in a magazine28:08 What is next for author April Henry?29:59 April’s book recommendation

Do your readers love fantastical shapeshifter books? Werewolves? Vampires? Sharks? Malia Maunakea joins us to talk about her newest middle grade fantasy based on Hawaiian legends. The Shark Prince is about a boy cursed to transform into a shark. You decide if it is a curse or a blessing. Find author Malia Maunakea https://www.maliamaunakea.com/https://www.instagram.com/maliamaunakea/https://www.tiktok.com/@maliamaunakeaThe Shark Prince by Malia Maunakea https://www.amazon.com/Shark-Prince-Malia-Maunakea/dp/0593890728/Lei and the Fire Goddess by Malia Maunakea https://www.amazon.com/Lei-Fire-Goddess-Malia-Maunakea/dp/0593522036/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0Lei and the Legends book 2 Lei and the Invisible Island https://www.amazon.com/Lei-Invisible-Island-Legends/dp/0593522052/Clairboyance by Kristiana Kahakauwila https://www.amazon.com/Clairboyance-Kristiana-Kahakauwila/dp/0063045362/Chapters00:00 Meet author Malia Maunakea05:28 What is the Shark Prince about?07:10 Did you know you wanted to be a writer? Did you know you wanted to write fantasy?09:01 Is the Shark Prince based on a real Hawaiian legend?11:41 Pitching the Shark Prince to people who aren’t familiar with the legend or aren’t fantasy lovers.Using books to talk to your kids.21:52 Themes of friendship25:02 What is next for author Malia Maunakea28:28 Malia’s book recommendation

Philip Stead is best known for his writing and illustrating of picture books, but after a little convincing from others and a lot of creativity on his part he recently published his first middle grade novel. "A Potion, a Powder, a Little Bit of Magic or Like Lightning in an Umbrella Storm a Story Out of Order" quickly became a New York Times bestseller for children and in this episode you get to hear about how he came up with this unique writing style and how to work morals into middle grade books.Find author and illustrator Philip Steadhttps://www.numberfivebus.com/https://www.instagram.com/number5bus/A Potion, a Powder, a Little Bit of Magic Or Like Lightning in an Umbrella Storm a Story Out of Order by Philip Stead https://www.amazon.com/Potion-Powder-Little-Bit-Magic/dp/0823458091/The Purloining of Prince Oleomargarine by Mark Twain, Philip Stead, and Erin Stead Bambert's Book of Missing Stories by Reinhardt JungChapters00:00 Meet author and illustrator Philip  Stead01:40 What is A Potion, a Powder, a Little Bit of Magic or Like Lightning in an Umbrella Storm a Story Out of Order about?03:20 Does Philip Stead represent the author in his book?04:25 What inspired Philip Stead to write his first middle grade book, A Potion, a Powder, a Little Bit of Magic or Like Lightning in an Umbrella Storm a Story Out of Order? And finishing a children’s book that Mark Twain started?13:05 Did life go like you expected it to as a child?14:20 Enjoyment vs fulfillment in life?16:16 Why 10 year old Philip Stead would like a story out of order?18:00 An interview out of order - author ice breaker in the middle - what is Philip’s will power struggle?19:20 24 morals in Philip Stead’s books and why Philip decided to put morals in?22:14 What significance some of the morals hold for Philip personally?32:31 This or that based on Philip’s book?34:21 What is next for author and illustrator Philip Stead and wife Erin Stead?36:45 Philip Stead’s book recommendation.

Poetry is not something that should be dreaded by students or adults. John shares how poetry can be found in multiple forms and can be a benefit to children and teens in many ways. Not only has John written a number of beautiful picture books, but John has a New York Times bestselling novel in verse, Louder than Hunger. Find author John Schuhttps://www.johnschu.com/https://www.instagram.com/mrschureads/?hl=enhttps://bsky.app/profile/mrschureads.bsky.socialhttps://x.com/MrSchuReadsLily-May's Joyful Day by John Schu https://www.amazon.com/Lily-Mays-Joyful-Day-John-Schu/dp/1536238627/Chapters00:00 Meet author and poet John Schu04:35 How poetry can be encouraged for all ages?20:00 What has poetry done for John Schu personally?24:16 How a child shared how a poem of John Schu’s helped them?26:44 Why is Louder than Hunger for someone who doesn’t struggle with a disorder?28:08 How can adults use John’s books to share poetry?30:16 The place picture books have for all ages, particularly upper grades.33:38 A time where John Schu remembers being read aloud to and felt loved.33:55 Reading aloud is love- is writing love too? How can adults use poetry as a form of love? As a form of writing?39:36 John Schu’s book recommendation

Kids love animal stories because kids love animals, but these stories can also teach us so much about ourselves and the world. 

Join Shakirah and I discussing one of my favorite books of the year, Here Lies a Ghost. The mystery of the moving coffins of the Chase Vault is one of the top 100 greatest unsolved mysteries in the world. Middle grade author Shakirah Bourne shares with us how she went from a young girl exploring the vault to a writer who crafted a ghost story that includes real people from history. After this interview go get your copy of Here Lies a Ghost by Shakirah Bourne.Here Lies a Ghost by Shakirah Bourne https://www.amazon.com/Here-Lies-Ghost-Shakirah-Bourne/dp/1546116907/Find author Shakirah Bournehttps://www.shakirahbourne.com/https://www.facebook.com/shakirahwrites/https://www.instagram.com/shakirahwritesChapters00:00 Meet middle grade author Shakirah Bourne04:34 What is Here Lies a Ghost about?08:37 What happened concerning the Chase Vault unsolved mystery?11:25 Shakirah’s research for writing Here Lies a Ghost16:55 The enslaved individuals on Barbados and what Shakirah learned about this writing Here Lies a Ghost19:45 How a history of enslaving individuals effects how people are treated in Barbados today24:20 Why Shakirah wrote her book alternating between prose and verse and her experience writing in this style29:38 What is next for author Shakirah Bourne30:25 Shakirah’s book recommendation

There is so much going on in this discussion because there is so much going on in the incredible book, The Blue Dress, by Rebecca Morrison. We talk about body image, being your authentic self, being an immigrant, complicated mother/daughter relationships.Find author Rebecca Morrisonhttps://www.rebeccakmorrison.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rebeccamorrisonwriter/?hl=en Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rkmorrisonTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@contactrebecca?lang=en Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/rebeccamorrisonwriter/Twitter (X): https://x.com/contactrebecca LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebecca-morrison-12bbb99/Website: https://www.rebeccakmorrison.com/ Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/rebeccamorrison.bsky.socialYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@rebeccamorrisonwriterSubstack: https://rebeccamorrison.substack.com/Threads: https://www.threads.com/@rebeccamorrisonwriterThe Blue Dress by Rebecca Morrison https://www.amazon.com/Blue-Dress-Rebecca-Morrison/dp/0374393605/Jawbreaker by Christina Wyman https://www.amazon.com/Jawbreaker-Christina-Wyman/dp/0374389691/Chapters00:00 Meet Middle Grade Author Rebecca Morrison03:39 What is The Blue Dress by Rebecca Morrison about?05:32 Complicated mother/daughter relationships and why Rebecca choose to write it for a middle grade book08:38 Had writing a book about her own experiences affected Rebecca’s relationship with her mother?12:41 Body image - how to feel happy and secure about our bodies16:47 Be an authentic self about being an immigrant20:37 How the author Rebecca would go about recommending a tween or teen read The Blue Dress25:50 What is next for author Rebecca Morrison?26:47 Rebecca’s book recommendation

Weird books are some of the best books! Michael Buckley shares his experience writing The Weirdies series in this author interview on BookHuddle where we learn to embrace and love the weird!Find middle grade author Michael Buckley https://www.michaelbuckleywrites.com/https://www.instagram.com/whatsupbuckley/Chapters00:00 Meet author Michael Buckley02:50 What is The Weirdies by Michael Buckley about?08:10 What is it like writing a weird book for Michael Buckley?10:36 What was it like creating an Audible original story?13:36 As you wrote did you try to consider how it would sound narrated16:35 Words that people use to describe The Weirdies that resonate with Michael22:37 The benefits of writing a weird book for children27:00 Embrace the weird. Help kids see that being different is ok30:00 What would The Weirdies give for advice37:46 What is next for author Michael Buckley?41:13 Michael’s book recommendations

Jen takes us behind the scenes in her writing the Isle of Ever and book 2, The Curse Breaker. We get to hear all about how it came together and maybe you'll have some questions at the end so maybe you should follow Jen Calonita on her socials and read all of the books in the Isle of Ever series. Find author Jen Calonita https://www.jencalonitaonline.com/https://www.instagram.com/jencalonita/https://www.tiktok.com/@jencalonitaofficialhttps://www.facebook.com/jencalonitabookshttps://www.threads.com/@jencalonitaIsle of Ever by Jen Calonita https://www.amazon.com/Isle-Ever-Jen-Calonita/dp/1464234426/The Curse Breaker by Jen Calonita https://www.amazon.com/Curse-Breaker-Isle-Ever/dp/172827706X/Chapters00:00 Meet author Jen Calonita - Also Cliffhangers07:40 What is the book Isle of Ever and the sequel The Curse Breaker about?10:04 What motivates author Jen Calonita in life?11:37 What personal family life inspired Jen Calonita to write Isle of Ever?14:09 How did Jen pace her writing for the Isle of Ever series?16:37 Adding new points of view to the sequel21:00 What are Jen’s hopes for readers when they read The Curse Breaker?24:42 Creating the main character, Benny29:35 Learning to be a kid and have fun31:50 What is next for author Jen Calonita?35:47 Jen’s book recommendations

In our lives we are always growing, always changing, and yet some aspects of us stay the same. We are never defined by just one thing; there is never just one thing going on in our lives. It is hard to explain A Scar Like a River with just one word. If I had to, I would say it is heavy or emotional, but I would hope that the hearer would remember that either of those words can mean so many things. A Scar Like a River is about a girl who was sexually abused as a child, and it is also about so many other things. It is fun and entertaining with Fallon dealing with family and friends and the school play and, yes, with the heavy effects of child abuse. This book flows like a beautiful river with intense parts, fun parts, and stunning parts. I enjoyed reading it, and I enjoyed chatting with Lisa Graff about A Scar Like a River. I hope that you will as well. Find author Lisa Graff https://www.lisagraff.com/https://www.instagram.com/lisagrafflovesbooks/https://www.facebook.com/lisagraffauthorhttps://www.pinterest.com/lisagrafflovesbooks/A Scar Like a River by Lisa Graff https://www.amazon.com/Scar-like-River-Lisa-Graff/dp/031657080X/The Undead Fox of Deadwood Forest by Aubrey Hartman https://www.amazon.com/Undead-Deadwood-Forest-Newbery-Winner/dp/0316575739/Chapters00:00 Meet author Lisa Graff02:40 What is A Scar Like a River About?03:49 What inspired Lisa Graff to write A Scar Like a River?05:44 Was it intense to write a book about abuse?07:49 Was there anything that Lisa felt trepidation about in writing A Scar Like a River?08:35 What makes Lisa excited about A Scar Like a River?09:45 How adults can go about recommending A Scar Like a River to children?17:00 The River themes18:00 What it was like for Lisa to write A Scar Like a River?21:03 How did Lisa come up with the title for her middle grade book?24:27 Explaining is not Exculpating. Even though characters choices were not justified, why explain their choices?26:14 What helps Lisa process her thoughts and emotions28:47 What is next for author Lisa Graff?29:50 Lisa’s book recommendation

Middle grade author and winner of the Schneider Family Book Award Honor for her book The Strongest Heart talks to us about her newest book Some of Us Are Brave, how we can be brave and also how to make it a conversation with our kids.Find author Saadia Faruqi https://saadiafaruqi.com/https://www.instagram.com/saadiafaruqi/The Strongest Heart by Saadia Faruqi https://www.amazon.com/Strongest-Heart-Saadia-Faruqi/dp/0063115859/Some of Us Are Brave by Saadia Faruqi https://www.amazon.com/Some-Are-Brave-Saadia-Faruqi/dp/0063389533/Piecing Me Together by Renee Watson https://www.amazon.com/Piecing-Me-Together-Ren%C3%A9e-Watson/dp/1681191059/Chapters00:00 Meet middle grade author Saadia FaruqiWinner of the Schieder Family Book Honor06:20 What is Some of Us Are Brave by Saadia Faruqi about?09:20 What do you do when you’re forced into a situation in which you must be brave?11:30 Why would someome choose to be brave if it wasn’t forced on them? What is the benefit of choosing to be brave?16:35 An example in Saadia’s life where she has taken baby steps in approaching her fears19:26 Why did Saadia include flood myths in her story?21:07 Researching the flood myths and how Saadia choose what to include?23:50 What do you hope readers will take away from your story?27:55 What is next for writer Saadia Faruqi?29:03 Saadia’s book recommendation

I had such a fantastic time reading Birdy and then talking to the author N. West Moss about how she crafted this beautiful story! We talk about the benefits of journaling, how reading and writing help us process our thoughts and emotions and so much more in this middle grade author interview!Find middle grade author N. West Moss https://www.nwestmoss.com/https://www.instagram.com/nwestmoss/https://www.facebook.com/west.moss/https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/11630982.N_West_MossBirdy by N. West Moss https://www.amazon.com/Birdy-N-West-Moss/dp/0316446416/Podcast about children's booksChapters00:00 Meet middle grade author N. West Moss02:49 What is the book Birdy by N. West Moss about?04:06 What inspired West to write Birdy?05:10 The importance of the setting to the author06:47 Tell us about creating the naturalistic character09:47 Is author N. West Moss more of a city girl or a country girl?12:00 Character development - anything the author learned from the main character, what she loved about her13:48 Journaling for Birdy18:50 The benefits of journaling for kids22:25 How reading books helps us process thoughts and emotions27:17 Birdy’s younger brother mouse - writing a big age gap and creating their relationships30:44 What is next for author N. West Moss32:13 West’s book recommendation

Claire Swinarski created a beauitiful historical fiction/contemporary middle grade book called Each and Every Spark. I had a wonderful time talking to her about this story, how important it is to have good art during hard times and researching/creating a work of historical fiction. Also, we love good food!Find author Claire Swinarski https://www.claireswinarski.com/https://www.instagram.com/claireswinarski/Each and Every Spark by Claire Swinarski https://www.amazon.com/Each-Every-Spark-Claire-Swinarski/dp/0063321785/The Blackbird Girls by Anne Blankman https://www.amazon.com/Blackbird-Girls-Anne-Blankman/dp/1984837354/Chapters00:00 Meet middle grade author Claire Swinarski04:19 What is Each and Every Spark by Claire Swinarski about?06:47 Why did Claire have art as a theme in this historical fiction book??How art is still important when the world is in turmoil?Appreciating art and what it can inspire others to do14:18 What led Claire to write historical fiction?17:01 Claire’s research for writing Each and Every SparkAnd What impacted her writing as she was in Paris19:23 Did anything surprise Claire in her research?22:03 What is Claire’s favorite French pastry?24:09 Character development with two very different people in two different time lines29:10 What advice would Claire’s characters give to young readers?31:16 what is best for the whole family unit35:26 What is next for Claire Swinarski as an author?37:28 Claire’s book recommendation

Children's stories can be fun, silly, entertaining, important, and thought-provoking all within one book. In this episode Shifa and I discuss both her chapter book series and her middle grade novel in verse. She talks about how both can be used to create meaningful conversations with kids and how some topics are best approached through the pages of a story. Find author Shifa Saltagi Safadihttps://shifasafadi.com/https://www.instagram.com/shifasaltagisafadi/Amina Banana and the Formula for Friendship by Shifa Saltagi Safadi (Author), Aaliya Jaleel (Illustrator) https://www.amazon.com/Banana-Formula-Friendship-Saltagi-Safadi/dp/0593699149/Amina Banana and the Formula for Making Money by Shifa Saltagi Safadi (Author), Aaliya Jaleel (Illustrator) https://www.amazon.com/Amina-Banana-Formula-Making-Money/dp/0593699181/Kareem Between by Shifa Saltagi Safadi https://www.amazon.com/Kareem-Between-Shifa-Saltagi-Safadi/dp/0593699289/Chapters00:00 Meet children’s book author Shifa Saltagi Safadi04:51 What are the Amina Banana books about? And the Formula for Friendship. And the Formula for Winning. And the Formula for making Money.10:41 Amina Banana is a story for all people12:22 How did Shifa decide on the themes for the “formulas” in the Amina Banana books?17:00 Using Amina books to have  conversations with our kidsNormalize people’s lived experiences, like Amina with her hijab19:59 Real experiences children have shared with Shifa about her books22:18 How can adults use Amina Banana for their kids?25:05 What is Kareem Between by Shifa Saltagi Safadi about? The benefits of novels in verse29:50 What is next for author Shifa Saltagi Safadi?31:11 Shifa’s book recommendation

How do you pass the 'interview' to win the Newberry? How to keep a story short? And a whole lot of fun are in store for this middle grade author interview with Newberry Honor winner Daniel Nayeri.Find Daniel Nayerihttps://www.danielnayeri.com/https://www.instagram.com/danielnayeri/https://www.facebook.com/danielnayeriThe Teacher of Nomad Land by Daniel Nayeri https://www.amazon.com/Teacher-Nomad-Land-World-Story/dp/1646145666/The Many Assassinations of Samir, the Seller of Dreams Newberry Honor Book https://www.amazon.com/Many-Assassinations-Samir-Seller-Dreams/dp/1646143035/The Bizarre Bazaar Mirror Town by Daniel Nayeri (Author), Liz Enright (Illustrator) https://www.amazon.com/Bizarre-Bazaar-Mirror-Graphic-Novel/dp/0759556431/The Bizarre Bazaar Down a Dark Path by Daniel Nayeri (Author), Lesley Vamos (Illustrator) https://www.amazon.com/Bizarre-Bazaar-Down-Graphic-Novel/dp/075955644X/Glowrushes by Roberto Piumini (Author), Leah Janeczko (Translator) https://www.amazon.com/Glowrushes-Roberto-Piumini/dp/1681377500/Chapters00:00 Meet Newberry winning middle grade author Daniel Nayeri06:12 What are Daniel Nayeri’s Newberry Honor books about. The Many Assassinations of Samir the Seller of Dreams and The Teacher of Nomad Land11:28 Daniel’s reaction to winning the Newberry Award15:47 How to keep things short in writing middle grade and graphic novels? How did Daniel become a writer of a few words?21:00 What led Daniel to create The Bizarre Bazaar graphic novel series?What is the Bizarre Bazaar Down a Dark Path about?28:56 How can you use graphic novels in the classroom?30:35 How did Daniel find illustrators for his graphic novels The Bizarre Bazaar Tales Passing Strange and why there are different illustrators for each book in the series34:39 What is next for Daniel Nayeri with graphic novels, middle grade and picture books?42:18 Daniel’s book recommendations

What can you learn about yourself as you develop a relationship with another person? Or as you develop a relationship with an animal? How will you grow as an individual? Lynne Kelly's beautiful new book, Three Blue Hearts, is about a boy on a summer vacation where he rescues a hurt octopus and discovers a summer of love and growth that he didn't see coming.Find middle grade author Lynne Kelly https://lynnekellybooks.com/https://www.instagram.com/lynnekkelly/https://www.facebook.com/authorLynneKelly/Three Blue Hearts by Lynn Kellyhttps://www.amazon.com/Three-Blue-Hearts-Lynne-Kelly/dp/0593898397/The One and Only Ivan by Katherine Applegate https://www.amazon.com/One-Only-Ivan-Katherine-Applegate/dp/0061992259/Chapters00:00 Meet Lynne Kelly03:39 What is Three Blue Hearts by Lynne Kelly about?07:10 What came first the setting or the character? The animal or kid main character?10:16 What did Lynne learn about Octopi when writing Three Blue Hearts? Interesting facts about Octopuses.12:10 Why does it work for Lynne to take a fascinating animal and then build a connection with a child main character?13:16 Max - the main character in Three Blue Hearts - reconciling your name to be your own, separate from anyone else’s identity17:50 How friendship helps strengthen individuals through the storms of life21:37 What is next for author Lynne Kelly?23:50 What species of animal does Lynne Kelly feel a special connection to?25:30 Do Octopuses have any similarities to humans? What we can learn from octopi?28:57 Lynne Kelly’s book recommendation

LeUyen is the illustrator of The Princess in Black series written by Shannon and Dean Hale as well as other books with Shannon. She has been an illustrator for 30 years now with over 140 books published and has also written/illustrated her own books. She was awarded the Caldecott Honor for the book Bear Came Along (written by Richard T. Morris). In this episode we chat about what it is like to be an illustrator and her relationships with other authors, editors, and readers. Find LeUyen Pham https://www.instagram.com/uyenloseordraw/The Princess in Black written by Shannon and Dean Hale and illustrated by LeUyen Pham https://www.amazon.com/Princess-Black-Triple-Smash-Three/dp/1536232890/Caps for Sale by Esphyr Slobodkina https://www.amazon.com/Caps-Sale-Peddler-Monkeys-Business/dp/020109147X/Chapters 00:00 Meet author/illustrator LeUyen Pham08:38 How did you get into a career as an artist?12:13 Using Princess in Black what is it like from start to finish as an illustrator working on a project?15:10 Adding illustrations that aren’t specified in the text, but enhance the book experience18:51 The joy of illustrating a series with 13 Princess in Black Books19:49 Does the publisher ever send back change requests for your drawings? 24:21 What medium do you like to illustrate with?28:06 Does the age you are drawing for effect the colors that you use?30:25 Author and illustrator and editor relationships 36:51 LeUyen Pham shares feedback received from kids 42:08 What is next for LeUyen Pham? 49:54 LeUyen’s book recommendation 

The last week of December Annisha from Reading in the Middle and I got together to talk about our most anticipated books of 2026. These are just some of the middle grade books that we are super excited to read this year. Keep listening to future episodes as we continue to read and discover more amazing children's books. And share with us which ones we missed and what you look forward to reading.Find Annisha Jeffries https://readinginthemiddle.blog/https://www.youtube.com/ ⁨@readinginthemiddle⁩  https://www.instagram.com/reading_in_the_middle/Chapters 00:00 Most anticipated books of 2026 - The Whisperwicks book 3 by Jordan Lees03:53 The Moon Without Stars by Chanel Miller06:11 Guardians - The Forbidden Mountain by Brandon Mull09:19 The Star of Moon Village by Jennifer Ann Richter12:20 A Scar Like a River by Lisa Graff14:00 The Secret Winners Club by Donna Galanti16:00 Dragonborn book 2 The Twilight Child by Struan Murray18:00 Hattie Mae Begins Again by Sharon G. Flake21:30 Breakout by Christina Wyman23:41 The After School Kindness Crew by Goldie Hawn and Lin Oliver26:19 Some of Us Are Brave by Saadia Faruqi28:11 Ghost in the Night by Tiffany D. Jackson (Blood in the Water)30:43 Alice With a Why Return to Wonderland by Anna James33:10 The Claiming The Last Resort 2 by Jasmine Warga sequel to The Last Resort by Erin Entrada Kelly34:48 Hypergifted by Gordon Korman book 3 of Ungifted series38:10 Tech Week by Lindsay Champion sequel to Cast vs Crew40:25 Phoenix by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley43:05 The Bizarre Bazaar graphic novels by Daniel Nayeri book 1 Mirror Town and book 2 Down a Dark Path

There were so many wonderful middle grade books released in 2025, and in this episode Melissa Taylor and I discuss just some of the best books of 2025 from our lists. Want to hear more of my favorite books from 2025 then check out this episode next https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/42-the-best-books-of-2025-so-far-shannon-balloon/id1752315662?i=1000715323257Find children's book author and content creator Melissa Taylorhttps://imaginationsoup.net/https://www.instagram.com/imaginationsoup/https://www.facebook.com/ImaginationSoupChapters 00:00 Meet children’s book blogger Melissa Taylor from Imagination Soup03:30 The Free State of Jax by Jennifer A. Nielson06:32 Blood in the Water by Tiffany D Jackson08:39 The Beat I Drum / Holding on For Dear Life by Dusti Bowling13:18 The Nine Moons of Han Yu and Luli by Karina Yan Glaser15:24 Silverborn The Mystery of Morrigan Crow of the Nevermoor series by Jessica Townsend19:14 The Trouble with Heroes by Kate Messner21:41 Neshama by Marcella Pixley24:11 Afia in the Land of Wonders by Mia Araujo26:05 Pocket Bear by Katherine Applegate29:17 Deepwater Creek graphic novel by Michael Regina31:18 The Dark Times of Nimble Nottingham by Ryan James Black33:39 The Creature Clinic by Gavin Aung Than36:00 Tuck Everlasting the graphic novel adapted by K. Woodman-Maynard37:13 Will’s Race for Home by Jewell Parker Rhodes38:55 The Sherlock Society Hurricane Heist by James Ponti41:28 Please Pay Attention by Jamie Sumner46:09 The Burning Season by Caroline Starr Rose49:35 Old School by Gordon Korman

Meg Medina's newest middle grade book is a beautiful fantasy adventure about the relationship between a sea spirit and a unique living boy with a common goal. They may be from different worlds with completely different views, but this book has a treasure trove of themes, like the importance of community. Find Meg Medinahttps://megmedina.com/https://www.facebook.com/meg.medina.10/https://www.instagram.com/megmedinabooks/?hl=enhttps://www.tiktok.com/@megmedinabooksGraciela in the Abyss by Meg Medina https://www.amazon.com/Graciela-Abyss-Meg-Medina/dp/B0DJCT4BGY/The Extraordinary Orbit of Alex Ramirez by Jasminne Paulino https://www.amazon.com/Extraordinary-Orbit-Alex-Ramirez/dp/0593859316/Scattergood by H. M. Bouwman https://www.amazon.com/Scattergood-H-M-Bouwman/dp/0823457753/Chapters 00:00 Meet middle grade author Meg Medina03:31 What is Graciela in the Abyss about?07:47 A 15 year journey in writing Graciela in the Abyss18:06 The art by the Balbusso twins21:02 The importance of community32:18 What’s next for Meg Medina?35:10 Meg’s book recommendation

Have you ever wondered why reindeer pull Santa's sleigh? The picture book Dasher provides a beautiful origin story families and schools will love to add to the seasonal readings. Matt Tavares has added a new Dasher book this year with Dasher and the Polar Bear and it is my favorite one of the series! In this episode we talk about his creation of the story and art as well as beautiful themes within these picture books. Find author and illustrator Matt Tavareshttps://matttavares.com/https://www.instagram.com/tavaresbooks/https://bsky.app/profile/tavaresbooks.bsky.socialhttps://www.facebook.com/tavaresbooksDasher by Matt Tavares https://www.amazon.com/Dasher-Little-Changed-Christmas-Forever/dp/1536201375/Dasher and the Polar Bear by Matt Tavares https://www.amazon.com/Dasher-Polar-Bear-Matt-Tavares/dp/1536236314/Chapters 00:00 Meet Picture Book Author and illustrator Matt Tavares02:48 What is the Dasher origin story? How did Matt come up with the idea?05:22 What comes first the story or the art? And what art mediums are used to create the pictures in the book?09:59 Themes in Dasher - Hope12:17 What is home? Christmas Magic - book themes17:09 What is Matt’s hope that Dasher will do for families?18:57 What has Dasher done for the author and illustrator, Matt Tavares?21:23 What is next for Matt Tavares?22:27 Matt’s book recommendations

A captivating ghost story evolves into an intense family drama with strong themes of forgiveness, self-identity, and family. Neshama, this powerful novel in verse, brings all the feels of a middle grade adventure amid beautiful verses of poetry. In this episode Marcella Pixley and I discuss not only the beauty of this novel in verse but also questions of compassion, relationships, religion, and self-growth. Find middle grade author Marcella Pixleyhttps://marcellapixley.com/https://www.instagram.com/marcellapixleybooks/?hl=enhttps://www.threads.com/@marcellapixleybooks?xmt=AQF01WcgnxB9ZD_yF35Vil2eQf9Z68K_unXTESSSULz2hucNeshama by Marcella Pixley https://www.amazon.com/Neshama-Marcella-Pixley/dp/1536236616/The Girl in the Walls by Meg Eden Kuyatt https://www.amazon.com/Girl-Walls-Meg-Eden-Kuyatt/dp/1546110534/The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse: Inspiring Conversations on Hope, Love and Personal Growth by Charlie Mackesy https://www.amazon.com/Boy-Mole-Fox-Horse/dp/0062976583/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0Chapters 00:00 Meet Marcella Pixley05:40 What is Neshama about?07:52 Why is it important to connect with and know our ancestors?13:10 Creating Neshama16:11 Was Neshama Marcella’s first novel in verse?Stopping to appreciate the poetry within the story.21:39 Themes of forgiveness in Neshama26:25 What has Shabbat done for you and your faith?33:40 What is next for middle grade author Marcella Pixley?35:26 Marcella’s book recommendations

Don't take life too seriously, have some fun too! If you could spend all day doing what you loved most, what would it be? Would you write silly stories that get published into graphic novels? Middle grade author Tom Angleberger shares with us about the creation of his graphic novel series, The Two-Headed Chicken, and why graphic novels make such great gifts for kids. Find author Tom Angleberger https://origamiyoda.com/https://www.instagram.com/tomangleberger/?hl=enThe Two-Headed Chicken https://www.amazon.com/Two-Headed-Chicken-Tom-Angleberger/dp/1536223212/Chapters 00:00 Meet Tom Angleberger07:16 Is writing a job for you? Or is it just fun?11:15 How did Tom Angleberger come up with the idea for the Two Headed Chicken series?15:44 Why do graphic novels make great gifts? Why are graphic novels important?21:02 Lessons in graphic novels?22:12 The publishers response to Two-Headed Chicken26:22 Where does Tom Angleberger get his book ideas?29:52 Tom’s question for me, what book would I have the two-headed chicken jump into?34:07 What is next for author Tom Angleberger?34:57 Tom’s book recommendation.

Those who have experienced the magic of a read aloud know they are a must in every home and classroom. Reading to children is so important and in this interview Kate shares some of the reasons why we should all find the time to read to children. Find Kate DiCamillohttps://www.katedicamillo.com/https://www.facebook.com/KateDiCamilloLost Evangeline by Kate DiCamillo https://www.amazon.com/Lost-Evangeline-Norendy-Tale-DiCamillo/dp/1420532197/Chapters 00:00 Meet Kate DiCamillo04:09 Why do you feel reading out loud to kids is important?07:03 What would you say to a teacher who says “I don’t have the time to read out loud to my class.”How to find the time to read to kids.08:53 Does reading aloud provide behavioral or emotional benefits?10:20 What ages do you read out loud to?12:55 What if someone is not comfortable reading out loud?14:51 After reading a story out loud what can we do to enhance the experience18:28 An experience where a read aloud of one of Kate DiCamillo’s books impacted someone else.21:26 Does Kate have a favorite book of hers to hear read out loud?22:50 Kate’s go to chapter for her to read out loud to a group.24:37 Why Kate writes short books with short chapters25:47 How being read to impacted Kate DiCamillo26:56 How Kate decides what to work on next28:50 What is next for Kate DiCamillo?29:43 Kate’s book recommendation

What happens when a group of extended family members who barely know each other spend a summer together on an island? Old family secrets arise. Is there a way to bridge old hurts and find ways to communicate? Can everyone learn that they are wonderful individuals just the way they are? Find middle grade author Erin Soderberg Downinghttps://www.erinsoderberg.com/https://www.facebook.com/ErinDowningBooks/https://www.instagram.com/erinsoderbergdowning/https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC0CUBkZOrmzhRU7bVDlDaaQWhat Happened Then by Erin Soderberg Downing https://www.amazon.com/What-Happened-Then-Soderberg-Downing/dp/1546124985/Hummingbird by Natalie Lloyd Chapters00:00 Meet middle grade author Erin Soderberg Downing04:05 What is What Happened Then by Erin Soderberg Downing about?09:00 The audiobook for What Happened Then with exceptional narration10:27 Powerful quotes from What Happened Then “Don’t Apologize because…”The qualities you already have are worth embracing15:45 How to be yourself?25:10 Building characters28:23 Having those conversations is the only way to break down barriers. The importance of communication35:08 A book full of emotions and hard topics that also includes lightness and humor39:17 What is next for author Erin Soderberg Downing?42:23 Erin’s book recommendation

A beautiful way to teach kids about Veterans Day is to use picture books and Jeff Gottesfeld has written some incredible ones with beautiful illustrations by Matt Tavares. In this interview I discuss with Jeff his inspiration for Honor Flight: Celebrating America's Veterans and Twenty-One Steps: Guarding the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Honor Flight will become available in March 2026 and you can pre-order now. Twenty-One Steps is available now. Find author Jeff Gottesfeldhttps://www.jeffgottesfeldwriter.com/https://www.instagram.com/jeffgottesfeldwriter/https://www.facebook.com/jeff.gottesfeldHonor Flight Celebrating American's Veterans by Jeff Gottesfeld illustrated by Matt Tavares https://www.amazon.com/Honor-Flight-Celebrating-Americas-Veterans/dp/1536230154/Twenty-One Steps: Guarding the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier by Jeff Gottesfeld and illustrated by Matt Tavares https://www.amazon.com/Twenty-One-Steps-Guarding-Tomb-Soldier/dp/1536201480/Chapters00:00 Meet author Jeff Gottesfeld03:01 What is Honor Flight by Jeff Gottesfeld about?04:47 How did Jeff get involved with an Honor Flight?06:11 Jeff’s personal experience with being a guardian on an Honor Flight09:19 Why is it important for kids to know about veterans?11:22 What can parents, teachers and librarians do to help kids become more aware of veterans?14:00 Jeff’s favorite Washington DC monument17:48 Was 21 Steps Jeff’s first military veteran type of book?19:25 Developing a relationship with your illustrator as a writer.21:40 What it is like to interact with veterans.23:48 Jeff’s journey as a writer and how he ended up doing picture books26:51 Jeff’s book recommendation

Brian Gonsar's recently published graphic novel for middle grade readers is wonderfully spooky without being scary. In our interview we discuss not only the creation of Dracula's Brunch Club, but also benefits of graphic novels and how you could use them in the classroom or at home with your own children.Find author Brian Gonsarhttps://www.bgonsar.com/bookshttps://www.instagram.com/bgonsar/Dracula's Brunch Club https://www.amazon.com/Draculas-Brunch-Club-Brian-Gonsar/dp/1637158408/Chapters00:00 Meet middle grade graphic novel author Brian Gonsar.03:55 What is Dracula’s Brunch Club graphic novel about?04:56 What inspired Brian Gonsar to write Dracula’s Brunch Club?06:37 How did Dracula’s Brunch Club evolve into a graphic novel?08:58 How did Brian Gonsar find his illustrator Keenan Gaybba?11:10 What are the benefits of graphic novels?16:40 A spooky book that isn’t scary.21:08 What is next for author Brian Gonsar?25:52 Brian’s book recommendations

Do you have ADHD? Does someone you love have ADHD? Do you know anyone at all who has ADHD (yes, you do!) Then this picture book, All You Can Be With ADHD, is for you. It is a powerful picture book for kids with ADHD, but everyone who reads it will be better for it. Listen in to hear about how Penn and Kim Holderness created this brilliant book and how you could use it in your classroom or family.Find Kim and Penn Holdernesshttps://theholdernessfamily.com/https://theholdernessfamily.com/podcast/https://www.instagram.com/theholdernessfamilyhttps://www.facebook.com/TheHoldernessfamilyhttps://www.youtube.com/ ⁨@holdernessfamilylaughs⁩ https://www.youtube.com/ ⁨@theholdernessfamily⁩  All You Can Be With ADHD by Penn and Kim Holderness and Vin Vogel as illustratorhttps://www.amazon.com/All-You-Can-Be-ADHD/dp/0316597678/ADHD is Awesome: A Guide To (Mostly) Thriving With ADHD by Penn Holderness and Kim Holderness (Authors), Edward Hallowell (Foreword)Everybody Fights: So Why Not Get Better at It? by Kim and Penn HoldernessChapters00:00 Meet Kim and Penn Holderness05:07 What is All You Can Be With ADHD picture book about?06:44 Why did Penn and Kim Holderness create a picture book about ADHD?11:35 What’s your advice for adults helping other adults understand individuals with ADHD?16:55 The process creating the Holderness ADHD picture book.23:46 Working with an illustrator to create the images in All You Can Be With ADHD - Vin Vogel27:37 Penn and Kim Holderness favorite image or line in All You Can Be With ADHD29:22 Was there a part that was difficult to put into the book?30:57 All You Can Be With ADHD is not just for kids with ADHD.32:03 How do you balance being compassionate with everyone around you who is neurodiverse and also with yourself?34:41 What do you tell yourself on the hard days?36:24 What do you hope others will say or think toward you during your hard moments?37:15 Kim and Penn Holderness children’s book recommendations

Many reluctant readers are pulled in by an incredible middle grade puzzle book. In this episode Chris Grabenstein and I discuss his newest book, Ms. Pennypickle's Puzzle Quest. Readers who loved the Mr. Lemoncello books are going to want to dive right into this new series. Find author Chris Grabensteinhttps://chrisgrabenstein.com/https://www.facebook.com/chris.grabensteinhttps://www.instagram.com/ChrisGrabenstein/Ms. Pennypickle's Puzzle Quest by Chris Grabenstein https://www.amazon.com/Pennypickles-Puzzle-Quest-Chris-Grabenstein/dp/0593707982/Max in the House of Spies and Max in the Land of Lies by Adam Gidwitz https://www.amazon.com/Max-Land-Lies-Operation-Kinderspion/dp/B0DCYZX7SF/Chapters00:00 Meet Middle Grade Author Chris Grabenstein05:07 What is Ms. Pennypickle’s Puzzle Quest about?07:50 Chris Grabenstein’s family road trip.10:23 Why does Chris Grabenstein write puzzle books?12:15 How did Chris Grabenstein go about starting a new book series?15:10 Which of all Chris Grabenstein’s characters is most like him?16:55 Which of his characters would be Grabenstein’s best friend?17:45 How is Grabenstein’s book applicable to real kids?20:25 How have books changed from when you were reading as a kid to now?21:58 Rapid fire questions based on Ms. Pennypickle’s Puzzle Quest for Chris29:10 What is next for Chris Grabenstein?32:22 Chris Grabenstein’s book recommendation.

Memories are an important part of our identities, but what happens when an individual loses some of their foundational memories? Could she get them back with the help of magic? In this episode we explore these and other questions while discussing C.M. Cornwell's debut middle grade book, The Memory Spinner. Find middle grade author C. M. Cornwell https://www.cmcornwell.com/https://www.instagram.com/cmcornwellwriteshttps://www.facebook.com/cmcornwellwritesThe Memory Spinner by C. M. Cornwell https://www.amazon.com/Memory-Spinner-C-M-Cornwell/dp/0593898761/Goose Girl Books of Bayern by Shannon Hale https://www.amazon.com/Goose-Girl-Books-Bayern/dp/1681193167/Chapters00:00 Meet Middle Grade author C.M. Cornwell01:00 What is The Memory Spinner by Christina Cornwell about?04:43 Why did C.M. Cornwell write about memories?06:25 How would it alter a person to be without their memories?08:30 Developing a spinner or weaving magic system. The mythology tied to fiber arts (the art of spinning)12:15 Why write with magic?14:20 Why write about grief when experiencing your own grief?19:38 C.M. Cornwell’s difficult path to becoming a published author.27:45 C.M. Cornwell’s next book The Paper Ballerina and more books to come29:57 C.M. Cornwell’s book recommendation

Quiet kids are often told to speak up. But Kimberly knows that it is ok to be the quiet kid. In The Secret of Honeycake a story unfolds about a quiet girl who grows in her own ways, learning to speak up and yet remembering to love being quiet at times as well. There is so much to this beautiful story and I hope that you will take the opportunity to read it!Find author Kimberly Newton Fusco https://www.kimberlynewtonfusco.com/https://www.instagram.com/kimberlynewtonfusco/https://www.facebook.com/kimberly.n.fuscoThe Secret of Honeycake by Kimberly Newton Fusco https://www.amazon.com/Secret-Honeycake-Kimberly-Newton-Fusco/dp/0593121775/Louisiana's Way Home by Kate DiCamillo https://www.amazon.com/Louisianas-Way-Home-Kate-DiCamillo/dp/1536207993/Chapters00:00 Meet middle grade author Kimberly Newton Fusco04:20 What is The Secret of Honey Cake About?07:25 Learning patience with a pet and other members of the family09:02 A True Blue Friend16:15 Being who you want to be - true to yourself22:37 Why is it important to know our own and others attributes?24:51 Benefits of journaling for kids.26:00 Using tides as symbols and in poetry - Do you feel we really are limitless?31:04 What is next for middle grade author Kimberly Newton Fusco36:20 Kimberly’s book recommendation

The London Blitz was scary enough, but combine it with a shadow monster? Middle grade author Ryan James Black has crafted an incredible spooky/historical fiction book that kids are going to eat up, The Dark Times of Nimble Nottingham. We discuss his creation of this fantastic story as well as evoking emotion in writing and the need for connections with other people in our lives.Find author Ryan James Blackhttps://ryanjamesblack.com/https://x.com/ryanjamesblackhttps://www.instagram.com/ryanjamesblackhttps://www.goodreads.com/author/show/13890651.Ryan_James_BlackThe Dark Times of Nimble Nottingham by Ryan James Black https://www.amazon.com/Dark-Times-Nimble-Nottingham/dp/0593698061/The House with Chicken Legs by Sophie Anderson https://www.amazon.com/House-Chicken-Legs-Sophie-Anderson/dp/1338209973/Hoodoo by Ronald L Smith https://www.amazon.com/Hoodoo-Ronald-L-Smith/dp/0544445252/Chapters00:00 Meet middle grade author Ryan James Black04:40 What is The Dark Times of Nimble Nottingham about?07:33 How did Ryan go about creating a genre smash in the Dark Times of Nimble Nottingham?10:09 The story behind the shadow monster in mythology13:14 How author Ryan James Black evokes emotion through description15:57 Why are making connections important for people? And how do you make relationships ring true?21:13 What do you recommend to a child not seeing a need for connections to other people?23:34 What is next for author Ryan James Black?26:20 Ryan James Black’s book recommendations28:49 What’s spooky for one person might not be scary for someone else

K. Woodman-Maynard and I discuss what it was like for her to adapt the classic middle grade book Tuck Everlasting into a graphic novel. We also explore the Tuck Everlasting themes of grief and death. Find author, illustrator, graphic novelist, comic coach K. Woodman-Maynardhttps://www.woodmanmaynard.com/https://www.instagram.com/woodmanmaynard/https://woodmanmaynard.substack.com/linkedin.com/in/katharine-woodman-maynard-06508460/https://www.tiktok.com/ ⁨@woodmanmaynard⁩  Tuck Everlasting The Graphic Novel by Natalie Babbitt adapted to graphic novel by K. Woodman-Maynard https://www.amazon.com/Tuck-Everlasting-Graphic-K-Woodman-Maynard/dp/0374391866/Flip Side the graphic novel by Jason Walz https://www.amazon.com/Flip-Side-Graphic-Novel/dp/0593617991/Chapters00:00 Meet graphic novelists and comic coach K. Woodman Maynard03:04 What is Tuck Everlasting about?03:55 How did K Woodman Maynard get into adapting classic novels into graphic novels?06:15 The first time you ever read Tuck Everlasting.07:30 The steps of adapting the classic novel Tuck Everlasting into a graphic novel.10:48 The most difficult part of adapting Tuck Everlasting into a graphic novel?11:55 Most enjoyable or most rewarding part of adapting Tuck Everlasting into a graphic novel?12:50 Using images in Tuck Everlasting graphic novel to convey themes?15:58 Which character do you most resonate with or which character do you feel a special connection to?17:50 The theme of grief in Tuck Everlasting25:07 What is next for graphic novel author K. Woodman Maynard?26:30 Books K. Woodman Maynard recommends (fiction and graphic novels)

Dragon fantasy and dystopian books are right up my alley. So combine the two and BAM! You have an amazing storyline by middle grade author Mari Mancusi. In this interview we discuss not only what inspired writing New Dragon City and Dawn of the Dragons, but also why it is important to 'accept the fact that other people are going to feel different than you and figure out a way to still include them in your life.'Find middle grade author Mari Mancusi http://www.marimancusi.com/https://newdragoncity.com/https://www.instagram.com/marimancusihttps://x.com/marimancusihttps://www.tiktok.com/@marimancusi8New Dragon City by Mari Mancusi https://www.amazon.com/New-Dragon-City-Mari-Mancusi/dp/031637668X/Dawn of the Dragons by Mari Mancusi https://www.amazon.com/Dawn-Dragons-New-Dragon-City/dp/0316588164/The Official Wednesday Cookbook: The Woefully Weird Recipes of Nevermore Academy by Mari Mancusi (Author), Jarrett Melendez (Author) https://www.amazon.com/Official-Wednesday-Cookbook-Woefully-Nevermore/dp/0593797884/Omega City by Diana Peterfreund https://www.amazon.com/Omega-City-Diana-Peterfreund/dp/0062310860/Chapters 00:00 Meet middle grade author Mari Mancusi03:02 What is New Dragon City about? What is the prequel, Dawn of the Dragons about?08:45 Why is it important to approach misunderstandings as a theme?13:49 How could a real life child relate to a character from your book? A book about divorce16:02 Why is it important to try and see things from the dads point of view?18:50 Why is it important to have multiple types of people in a society?22:33 Why do you love fantasy?23:29 If you could bond with an animal, what would it be?25:37 What is next for Mari Mancusi?28:10 Mari’s book recommendation.

Raj Sidhu has crafted a brilliant work of fiction about a group of kids that get pulled into their favorite role playing game. If you are looking for a silly laugh out loud adventure then look no further. In addition to talking about the need for these fun books for kids, Raj and I discuss helping kids see their potential and feel unconditional love from those in their lives.Find middle grade author Raj Sidhuhttps://www.rajsidhu.org/https://www.instagram.com/rajhansidhu/Thrash Force by Raj Sidhu https://www.amazon.com/Thrash-Force-Raj-Sidhu/dp/0316577162/Chapters00:00 Meet middle grade author Raj Sidhu03:58 What is Thrash Force by Raj Sidhu about?07:07 What inspired Raj to create Thrash Force10:22 Who illustrated Thrash Force?  Billy Yong11:00 Why is there a need for laugh out loud, ridiculous books for kids21:26 How do you think we can help kids see their potential?28:30 What is next for author Raj Sidhu?29:44 Raj’s book recommendations

Middle Grade Author Meg Eden Kuyatt shares about her newest novel in verse, The Girl In The Walls. Meg is autistic and shares powerful personal reasons for writing neurodiverse characters. This episode will resonate with you if you are neurodiverse or if you have a loved one who is. It can also be a way for you and kids to gain empathy and connect with those who are neurodiverse. Find author Meg Eden Kuyatthttps://www.megedenbooks.com/https://www.instagram.com/meden_author/https://www.facebook.com/megedenwritespoems/The Girl in the Walls by Meg Eden Kuyatthttp://amazon.com/Girl-Walls-Meg-Eden-Kuyatt/dp/1546110534/Good Different by Meg Eden Kuyatt https://www.amazon.com/Good-Different-Meg-Eden-Kuyatt/dp/133881611X/Neshama by Marcella Pixley https://www.amazon.com/Neshama-Marcella-Pixley/dp/1536236616/Chapters00:00 Meet middle grade author Meg Eden Kuyatt02:10 What is The Girl in the Walls about?03:29 What inspired you to write in verse? What inspired the story for The Girl in the Walls?07:02 Why is it important to have books with main characters who are neurodiverse?11:11 Different generations have handled neurodiversity differently12:06 Emotions are so powerful, how do we handle our emotions? Don't let emotions pilot you17:28 What do you think are first steps in moving forward when relationships have been hurt?23:07 How do you start in your relationship in working with a neurodiverse individual?29:29 The cover for The Girl in the Walls30:33 What is next for middle grade author Meg Eden Kuyatt?32:26 What do you hope children and adults get from your books about neurodiverse characters?33:44 Meg’s book recommendation

Who has not wondered at some point in their lives, where do I belong? In this episode, middle grade author Kaela Rivera and I discuss her fantasy series Cece Rios. We explore how experiencing each other's cultures can foster respect and help us all better understand each other and bring us closer together. In addition to better understanding others, Cece Rios also delves into that age-old question, where do I belong? Find author Kaela Rivera https://www.kaelarivera.com/https://www.instagram.com/kaelacub/https://www.facebook.com/kaela.rivera.12327?ref=bookmarksCece Rios and the Desert of Souls by Kaela Rivera https://www.amazon.com/Cece-Desert-Souls-Kaela-Rivera/dp/0062947559/LEGO® DREAMZzz: Dream Chasers and the Riddle-Spokens by Kaela Rivera https://www.amazon.com/LEGO%C2%AE-DREAMZzz-Dream-Chasers-Riddle-Spokens/dp/0593484770/The Book Thief by Markus Zusak https://www.amazon.com/Book-Thief-Markus-Zusak/dp/0375842209/Chapters 00:00 Meet middle grade author Kaela Rivera and how she ended up writing for Lego books06:17 What is Cece Rios about?09:45 Finding what the real essence of courage is.13:50 What inspired you to create Cece Rios?23:30 Growing up in a home with 2 cultures, growing up a halfy, influenced Kaela Rivera’s writing.25:35 Everyone experiences feeling like they don’t fit in.30:49 Experiencing each other’s cultures brings us closer together.34:15 Kaela’s book recommendation39:39 What’s next for middle grade author Kaela Rivera?

If you've read The Extraordinary Orbit of Alex Ramirez you may have noticed that this book is full of emotion. That is because the topics and story are personal for middle grade author, Jasminne Paulino. In this episode we discuss the creating of The Extraordinary Orbit of Alex Ramirez and how to best help neurodiverse children be their best selves.Find author Jasminne Paulino https://jasminnepaulino.com/https://www.instagram.com/jasminne.notes/?hl=enThe Extraordinary Orbit of Alex Ramirez by Jasminne Paulino https://www.amazon.com/Extraordinary-Orbit-Alex-Ramirez/dp/0593859316/Merci Suárez Changes Gears by Meg Medina https://www.amazon.com/Merci-Su%C3%A1rez-Changes-Gears-Medina/dp/153621258X/Corduroy by Don Freeman https://www.amazon.com/Corduroy-Don-Freeman/dp/0140501738/Chapters00:00 Meet middle grade author Jasminne Paulino02:19 What is The Extraordinary Orbit of Alex Ramirez about?05:43 What inspired you to write this book?08:47 What do you hope readers will take away from your book?11:50 Do you think that all people are capable of achieving something great?13:25 How can adults help kids find their great? How can they avoid embarrassing the kids?15:57 How can adults help kids advocate for themselves?17:08 How can we help kids see the need to advocate for themselves? Why is it important for them to advocate for themselves?21:15 How do we help kids see a reason for differing opinions and reactions and help them know how to respond to these different perspectives.26:17 Tell us about creating the title The Extraordinary Orbit of Alex Ramirez29:51 Jasminne’s book recommendations

Anxiety comes in many forms. Often it looks different for kids than for adults. Erin Stewart has crafted an incredible story about a couple kids with very different anxieties. Magic is woven into the pages of this incredible story with intense topics. For more books about similar topics check out this author interview next https://youtu.be/wkPbCN21l74?si=c4hGq7tLCB5hvF5TFind author Erin Stewart https://erinstewartbooks.com/https://www.instagram.com/erin_n_stewarthttps://www.tiktok.com/@erinstewartwriteshttps://www.facebook.com/erinstewartwritesThe Forgotten Magic of Zoey Turnerhttps://www.amazon.com/Forgotten-Magic-Zoey-Turner/dp/1665952261/Chapters00:00 Meet middle grade author Erin Stewart05:00 What is The Forgotten Magic of Zoey Turner by Erin Stewart about?07:14 Why did you write a character with anxiety?12:35 Supporting characters - Derrick aka Tuna16:15 Supporting characters - Lena - seeing a friend grow up and move on20:07 Is Magic Just for Kids?25:06 Is life black and white? What’s the benefit of letting go of black and white?29:25 What’s next for author Erin Stewart?31:10 Erin’s book recommendation

Middle grade author Judith Rossell has a new captivating book out. In this episode we discuss the creating of The Midwatch Institute for Wayward Girls ("Unwanted Girls" in the Australian Title) and themes like Hope and Confidence. Find author and illustrator Judith Rossellhttps://judithrossell.com/https://www.facebook.com/JudithRossellBooks/https://www.instagram.com/JudeRossellThe Midwatch Institute for Wayward Girls https://www.amazon.com/Midwatch-Institute-Wayward-Girls/dp/B0DGC2B4NH/Chapters00:00 Meet middle grade author Judith Rossell04:20 What is The Midwatch Institute for Wayward Girls About?06:14 How did you create the setting and characters for The Midwatch Institute of Wayward Girls?11:50 Author Judith Rossell is also the illustrator of her books, but what does she create first?13:19 What does it mean for someone to be useful?18:28 Empowering your characters to have hope in a way that you can pass on to readers.24:00 Helping someone build confidence28:58 What does it mean to be brave?31:35 Judith Rossell’s book recommendations