PODCAST · arts
E Train Talks Books: A Literacy Initiative
by Ethan Minton: Book Reviewer, Reader, and Author Interviewer!
E Train Talks is a book podcast hosted by 15-year-old Ethan Minto, an award-winning literacy advocate, book reviewer, and the host of E Train Talks. E Train Talks is a nonprofit dedicated to spreading book joy! I've interviewed over 150 kids authors and reviewed hundreds of books. If you're an MG, Kidlit or YA book lover like me, please join my podcast community by subscribing to my channel and following my reading journey at www.etraintalks.org If you'd like to support literacy and spread book smiles to children in need, please donate at: https://www.paypal.com/US/fundraiser/charity/4938608
Episodes
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IT’S TIME FOR YOUNG TEEN LIT! 📚 | Why We Need More Books for Young Teens | TEENtober Special
Welcome to TEENtober! Every October, public and school libraries across the country celebrate TEENtober, a month-long celebration that highlights teens, their voices, and the importance of reading. I'm celebrating TEENtober with a special E Train Talks interview featuring Christina Chatel and...
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Steve Sheinkin on MIND VS. MACHINE: The Chess Match That Changed the World! ♟️
Celebrating five years of E Train Talks with Steve Sheinkin on National Chess Day! What happens when the greatest chess player in the world faces off against a supercomputer capable of calculating millions of moves in seconds? In this episode of E Train Talks, I’m excited to welcome back New York...
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A BETTER WORLD IS POSSIBLE: A Conversation About Climate Change, Youth Activism, and Storytelling
I’m excited and extremely proud to welcome two amazing storytellers and Earth Heroes who have come together to tackle one of the biggest issues facing our planet, the climate crisis. Meet Meera Subramanian and Danica Novgorodoff. Meera is an award winning environmental journalist, author, and...
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PEDRO MARTÍN Talks MEXIKID DREAMS 🍓 BOOK TWO 🍓 Pedro's Childhood & Creative Journey
In his first graphic memoir, MEXIKID, Pedro Martín introduced readers to the unforgettable story of his childhood, family, and a memorable road trip to Mexico. The book went on to receive a Newbery Honor and the Pura Belpré Author and Illustrator Awards. Now Pedro is back with MEXIKID DREAMS, and...
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Terri Libenson Talks EMMIE & FRIENDS | Book 10 | Q&A with E Train
Celebrating 5 years of E Train Talks with Terri Libenson! I’m so excited to welcome New York Times bestselling author, illustrator, and award-winning cartoonist Terri Libenson to E Train Talks! Terri is the creator of the hugely popular EMMIE & FRIENDS middle-grade series, which blends words,...
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MIND VS MACHINE I The Chess Match That Changed The World I By Steve Sheinkin & Maurice Ashley
The hopes of humanity rest on the shoulders of one chess player. It's May 1997 in Manhattan, New York. World champion Garry Kasparov is about to begin a six-game chess match against Deep Blue, the cutting edge IBM supercomputer. MIND VS MACHINE, a middle-grade graphic novel by Steve Sheinkin…
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Erin Dealey Author Interview | Stories, Big Feelings & the Magic of Books
WELCOME TO 5 YEARS OF E TRAIN: Celebrating the World of Books! To kick off the celebration, I’m sharing my interview with award-winning children’s author and playwright @erindealey3097! Erin Dealey is a wonderful human and an incredibly talented storyteller. She has written more than 20 picture...
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THE ODYSSEY Graphic Novel ⭐️Book Review ⭐️ An Epic 5-Star Adventure by Gareth Hinds
With Christopher Nolan’s THE ODYSSEY now in theaters, I’m going back to the legendary story that started it all, but this time in graphic novel form! In this E Train Talks Books review, I’m taking a look at THE ODYSSEY: A GRAPHIC NOVEL: DELUXE EDITION, written and illustrated by Gareth Hinds…
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DOUBLE CROSSED I A Middle-Grade Book by Rebecca E.F. Barone I Questions In a Bottle
Welcome to my new book review series "Question in a Bottle." This is an E Train Talks video series where I answer questions about interesting upper-middle grade or YA books I've read and recommend! And in this episode, I'm spotlighting DOUBLE CROSSED: THE WWII SPIES WHO SAVED D-DAY! DOUBLE…
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HOW TO BUILD A MIRACLE | ⭐️ Book Review | 🌳 Lynda Mullaly Hunt | 10/10 MUST READ!
I was lucky enough to read an early copy of HOW TO BUILD A MIRACLE by New York Times Bestselling author Lynda Mullaly Hunt, best known for FISH IN A TREE! This beautiful story is filled with both heartbreak and hope, and by the end, Lynda has a way of putting the pieces back together, stronger…
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Frederick Joseph: 3× NYT & USA Today Bestselling Author and Activist | Book Talk
I was truly honored to welcome award-winning and NYT Bestselling author, Frederick Joseph to E Train Talks. In case you didn't know, is a three-time New York Times and USA Today Bestselling author who has written powerful books for readers of all ages. In this interview, we discussed THIS…
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The Story Behind DUDE. BE NICE! With Sarah Scheerger and Brent Camalich
“We were sick of the bad news. So we sought out to build more positive communities, one video at a time.” - Dude. Be Nice This episode is especially near and dear to my heart because my guests bring the worlds of “books and good deeds”together in one very special conversation.I’m joined by...
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EVERYTHING'S NOT LOST By Frederick Joseph - BOOK REVIEW - A 5 Star Young Adult Read!
In this video, I’m sharing my thoughts on EVERYTHING'S NOT LOST by Frederick Joseph, a powerful Young Adult novel that releases on October 20, 2026.In honor of Mental Health Awareness Month, I’m highlighting EVERYTHING'S NOT LOST because of its deeply emotional and important themes surrounding...
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KATIE KIRBY Interview: Inside the World of LOTTIE BROOKS
In my newest interview, I’m talking with bestselling British author and illustrator Katie Kirby! Katie is best known for creating the hugely popular LOTTIE BROOKS middle-grade series, which first launched in 2021 with THE EXTREMELY EMBARRASSING LIFE OF LOTTIE BROOKS.The LOTTIE BROOKS series has...
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Uniting Against Book Bans - WAKE NOW IN THE FIRE, an Empowering Graphic Novel Based on True Events!
WAKE NOW IN THE FIRE is a phenomenal young adult / upper middle-grade graphic novel written by librarian Jarrett Dapier and illustrated by AJ DungoAn empowering graphic novel inspired by the true story of a group of Chicago high students who stand up together and fight to overturn the…
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THE BLUE DRESS by Rebecca Morrison | Honest Book Review! 5 Star Read!
THE BLUE DRESS by author Rebecca Morrison is the perfect #kidlit story for anyone who’s felt like they don’t fit in or for readers trying to understand the daily struggles tweens and teens are going through. The story follows 12-year-old Yasmin Safavi, an Iranian American girl navigating body…
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Children’s Book Author John Masiulionis on His Heartfelt New Book & PR From the Heart Journey!
John Masiulionis is the founder of PR From The Heart, a leading PR firm in children’s literature, where he helps storytellers from well-known performers to acclaimed authors grow their platforms and share meaningful stories. John is also the author of the award-winning children’s picture book...
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ON ALL OTHER NIGHTS Passover Panel with 6 Amazing Storytellers + A White House Passover Tale!
I’ve been interviewing authors for over four years, and this is my very first Passover Panel. I couldn’t be more excited to bring together such an incredible group of storytellers for a lively, meaningful, and festive conversation.In this special episode, we’re celebrating the middle-grade...
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My Interview with 2026 Sydney Taylor Book Award Winner Marcella Pixley
I am deeply honored to share my interview with the 2026 Sydney Taylor Book Award Winner Marcella Pixley, author of the middle-grade book, NESHAMA. Marcella Pixley is the the talented storyteller behind the profoundly meaningful middle-grade novel-in-verse, NESHAMA, and I'm so grateful to have the...
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My Book Review of NESHAMA, the 2026 Sydney Taylor Book Award Winner, by Author Marcella Pixley.
These are my thoughts on Neshama, the beautiful, award-winning middle-grade novel in verse by Marcella Pixley.Neshama, a Hebrew word meaning “soul,” “spirit,” or “breath,” is deeply rooted in Jewish spirituality, and it is the perfect title for such a meaningful, healing story. There is so much...
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Purim Children's Book Author Panel Celebrating Three New PJ Library books!
Purim is almost here, and I’ve the perfect way to start preparing for the holiday fun! Watch my interview to discover three brand new Purim themed stories that bring the holiday to life for young readers.In this special episode, I'm interviewing three wonderful children’s book authors: Nancy...
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Tu B’Shvat Children's Book Author Panel! 🌳📚
I’m excited to be hosting a special children's author panel conversation celebrating Tu B’Shvat, the Jewish New Year of the Trees, a eco-friendly holiday that invites us to reflect on growth, roots, and our connection to the natural world.🌳📚I’m honored to be interviewing three children’s book...
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Award-Winning Author Torrey Maldonado Talks About his Picture Book JUST RIGHT!
In this interview I speak with one of my favorite storytellers, award-winning author Torrey Maldonado! Torrey is a light in the darkness, and in the words of the great Maya Angelou, he's a "rainbow" in the world's cloud, spreading joy and positivity everywhere he goes, including in his books! I'm...
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My Interview With New York Times Bestselling Author of YA & Middle-Grade, Lance Rubin!
My talk with New York Times Bestselling author Lance Rubin was nothing short of legendary! From deep talks about the pros and cons of AI, to a fun look back at his career in theater, to the celebration of his latest stories, this interview had it all!Lance is the author of the “Denton Little’s...
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E Train Talks Hanukkah Heroes 2025 Author Panel!
WELCOME TO MY HANUKKAH HEROES 2025 AUTHOR PANEL! In this video, I'm speaking with five wonderful Jewish storytellers, authors and illustrators, who've brought some of the sweetest and most meaningful Festival of Lights books to life. Their stories brighten the season for young readers from...
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My Interview with #1 NYT Bestselling Author & Documentary Producer Josh Mensch!
Welcome to another exciting episode of E Train Talks, where I sit down with history expert, acclaimed writer, and documentary producer Josh Mensch! Josh is the #1 New York Times bestselling author of gripping historical nonfiction stories uncovering real-life secret plots and assassination…
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Celebrating 25 Years of BECASUE OF WINN-DIXIE with Newbery Medalist, Author Kate DiCamillo
This episode is a truly special celebration! I’m honored to sit down virtually with award-winning children's author Kate DiCamillo for an exclusive interview commemorating the 25th anniversary of her beloved debut novel, BECAUSE OF WINN-DIXIE. First published in 2000, this timeless story of...
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My Book Review of ZED MOONSTEIN MAKES A FRIEND By NY Times Best-Selling Author Lance Rubin
This is my book review of ZED MOONSTEIN MAKES A FRIEND, a captivating coming-of-age middle-grade masterpiece by New York Times Bestselling Author Lance Rubin.ZED MOONSTEIN MAKES A FRIEND is an unforgettable reading journey of self-discovery, a story that explores the ins and outs of true...
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My Book Review of the Middle-Grade Book, SO OVER SHARING by Author Elissa Brent Weissman!
SO OVER SHARING is a relatable and timely middle-grade read (a must read)! With a powerful storyline centering around the mental and emotional harm that can occur behind the scenes of family content creation channels, Weissman crafted a relevant, fast-paced, and highly entertaining read! SO OVER...
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My Interview with Award-Wining Middle-Grade Author Naomi Millner!
I’m very excited to share my interview with the wonderful author Naomi Milliner. Naomi writes heartwarming, coming-of-age stories that truly touch the soul. I've been following Naomi's writing since my podcast journey began and I'm thrilled to have the opportunity to dig into the stories behind…
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My Interview with JaNay Brown-Wood, PhD, Award-Winning Author & Literacy Advocate!
It was such a treat to interview award-winning children’s author, poet, and educator, Dr. JaNay Brown-Wood in-person! JaNay is a phenomenal human being, and her books are a representation of that, filled with rhymes, lyrics, and meaning! Tune into my talk with Dr. Brown-Wood and learn more about...
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My Interview with #1 New York Times Bestselling Author, Lindsay Currie!
In this episode of E Train Talks, we’re traveling into the suspenseful and captivating world of middle-grade mysteries with none other than #1 New York Times and USA Today Bestselling author, Lindsay Currie! Lindsay keeps middle-grade readers (myself included) on the edge of their seats with...
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My Book Thoughts on RACING THE CLOUDS, the 10/10 Middle-Grade Story by Author Sydney Dunlap.
This is not the first book I’ve read by author Sydney Dunlap, in fact, Sydney changed the middle-grade story-writing game when she featured themes of social media and human trafficking in her last book, IT HAPPENED ON SATURDAY. And now Sydney Dunlap is back with another incredible middle-grade...
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Celebrating 20 Years of THE BOOK OF LIFE PODCAST: My Interview with Heidi Rabinowitz!
In this special episode of E Train Talks, I sit down with Heidi Rabinowitz, host of "The Book of Life Podcast," to celebrate two incredible decades of Jewish storytelling, kidlit magic, and community connection. Heidi shares the inspiring journey behind the podcast, from its humble beginnings in...
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My Interview with 5X Emmy-Winning Comedy Writer, Producer and Author Rob Kutner!
Welcome to a special episode of E Train Talks! In today's show, I’m speaking to the Avengers of comedy writing, if the Avengers were Jewish (oh wait! Come to think of it a few are!). This is the first interview in my 2025 Jewish American Heritage month series and I'm so excited. This is my talk...
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My Interview with Award-Winning Children's & YA Author Wendelin Van Draanen
In this video, I sat down virtually with Wendelin Van Draanen, the multi-award-winning author of over 30 books for children and teens of all ages. With a writing career that spans over two decades, and books that have touched the hearts of countless readers, Wendelin has many interesting and...
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My Book Review of THE MYTH OF MONSTERS: GOD’S CURSE, by author Katherine Marsh!
Greek mythology is known for spotlighting the many talents of the Greek gods, discrediting goddesses and the women that helped pave the way in mythological stories. Luckily, we have amazing writers like Katherine Marsh who are busting myths and writing the truth behind every tale. THE MYTH OF...
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My Book Review of ONE KISS, by Award-Winning Author Marth Jocelyn
New book alert! Award-winning middle-grade author Marthe Jocelyn has just published a new book, it’s not her usual middle-grade mystery thriller, this story is written specifically for older readers. It’s a short read that is sure to keep teens AND young adults entertained! With a quick and...
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My Book Review of THE JFK CONSPIRACY: THE SECRET PLOT TO KILL KENNEDY, AND WHY IT FAILED
THE JFK CONSPIRACY: THE SECRET PLOT TO KILL KENNEDY―AND WHY IT FAILED by the New York Times Bestselling authors Brad Meltzer and Josh Mensch is a fascinating deep dive into a lesser known, yet highly detailed assassination plan to take the life of President elect John F. Kennedy. In THE JFK...
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My Interview with Award-Winning School Librarian and Debut Author, Todd Burleson!
April is National School Library Month, the perfect time to celebrate the many ways librarians transform lives and strengthen communities. Since this month is all about amazing librarians, I thought it would be fitting to meet and speak with one of my own personal library heroes, my friend and…
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My Review of WHALE EYES: A MEMOIR ABOUT SEEING AND BEING SEEN by Author & Emmy-winner James Robinson
Every so often I come across a book that breaks the traditional middle-grade literature storytelling mold. This is one of those stories. WHALE EYES: A MEMOIR ABOUT SEEING AND BEING SEEN by by Emmy Award-winning documentary filmmaker James Robinson & artist Brian Rea have crafted a novel that...
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My Book Thoughts on THE TROUBLE WITH HEROES by New York Times Bestselling author Kate Messner
April is National Poetry Month & I’m celebrating by sharing my newest book review of THE TROUBLE WITH HEROES by New York Times Bestselling author Kate Messner. THE TROUBLE WITH HEROES is one of my top 2025 favorite reads!A moving & inspiring novel-in-verse that is a healing force for #kidlit...
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My Book Review of THE JEWS: 5,000 YEARS AND COUNTING by award-wining writer Rob Kutner
If you’re looking for a story that combines history, pop culture and comedic timing, then I’ve got a book for you! THE JEWS 5,000; YEARS AND COUNTING by Emmy, Peabody& Grammy-Winning author Rob Kutner is the perfect read for anyone interested in learning about the history & culture of the Jewish...
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My Interview with NYT Bestselling Children's Author Kate Messner!
Welcome to my talk with author Kate Messner, the multi- award-winning and New York Times bestselling author of fascinating nonfictional series like, HISTORY SMASHERS, which dives deep into the mysteries of history, as well as over 70 other amazing picture books, chapter books, and middle-grade...
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E Train's Book Thoughts on MAX IN THE LAND OF LIES: A TALE OF WORLD WAR II by author Adam Gidwitz!
I had the incredible honor of reading an Advanced Readers Copy (ARC) of MAX IN THE LAND OF LIES: A TALE OF WORLD WAR II, by NYT Bestselling author Adam Gidwitz. After reading book 1, MAX IN THE HOUSE OF SPIES: A TALE OF WORLD WAR II, I didn't think there'd be any way to top such a powerful read,...
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My Book Review of IT’S WATCHING, by New York Times Bestselling author Lindsay Currie!
I have read my fair share of creepy middle-grade books, but I must admit, no story has made me feel quite as scared as when reading, IT’S WATCHING, by NYT and USA Today bestselling author Lindsay Currie! Lindsay pulls out all the stops to create the perfect chilling middle-grade tale. I was first...
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My Book Review of ELEVEN RINGS: THE SOUL OF SUCCESS by Coach Phil Jackson & Hugh Delehanty!
Have you ever wondered what makes the best NBA coaches great? What sets them apart from the opposition? How do they compose themselves when their team breaks down or players experience a meltdown? I certainly have pondered these questions, and I'm so grateful the book ELEVEN RINGS: THE SOUL OF...
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My Purim-Edition Interview With Jewish Picture Book Author & Illustrator, Alan Silberberg!
I had so much fun interviewing the amazing author & illustrator Alan Silberberg in honor of one of my favorite Jewish holidays, Purim! In our talk we celebrate Alan’s book, MEET THE HAMANTASCHEN: A PURIM STORY and talk about Alan’s other sweet & funny Jewish themed stories. Alan also shares...
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My Interview of New York Times Bestselling Middle-Grade Graphic Novelist, Maria Scrivan!
In coordination with ANYWAY Magazine, I had the opportunity to interview author Maria Scrivan! Maria is a New York Times Bestselling author and award-winning syndicated cartoonist, and she's the creator the NAT ENOUGH graphic novel series! NAT ENOUGH follows Nat (A.K.A. Natalie), an inquisitive...
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My Interview with 2025 Sydney Taylor Book Award & Newbery Honoree Ruth Behar!
As part of the Association of Jewish Libraries (AJL) 2025 Sydney Taylor Book Award Blog Tour, this is my interview with multi-award-winning author & cultural anthropologist, Ruth Behar.I was deeply honored to interview 2025 Sydney Taylor Honor Book Honoree and 2025 Newbery Honor recipient, author...
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
E Train Talks is a book podcast hosted by 15-year-old Ethan Minto, an award-winning literacy advocate, book reviewer, and the host of E Train Talks. E Train Talks is a nonprofit dedicated to spreading book joy! I've interviewed over 150 kids authors and reviewed hundreds of books. If you're an MG, Kidlit or YA book lover like me, please join my podcast community by subscribing to my channel and following my reading journey at www.etraintalks.org If you'd like to support literacy and spread book smiles to children in need, please donate at: https://www.paypal.com/US/fundraiser/charity/4938608
HOSTED BY
Ethan Minton: Book Reviewer, Reader, and Author Interviewer!
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many episodes does E Train Talks Books: A Literacy Initiative have?
E Train Talks Books: A Literacy Initiative currently has 248 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.
What is E Train Talks Books: A Literacy Initiative about?
E Train Talks is a book podcast hosted by 15-year-old Ethan Minto, an award-winning literacy advocate, book reviewer, and the host of E Train Talks. E Train Talks is a nonprofit dedicated to spreading book joy! I've interviewed over 150 kids authors and reviewed hundreds of books. If you're an MG,...
How often does E Train Talks Books: A Literacy Initiative release new episodes?
E Train Talks Books: A Literacy Initiative publishes regularly with 248 episodes available. Check the episode list for the typical release schedule.
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You can listen to E Train Talks Books: A Literacy Initiative on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.
Who hosts E Train Talks Books: A Literacy Initiative?
E Train Talks Books: A Literacy Initiative is created and hosted by Ethan Minton: Book Reviewer, Reader, and Author Interviewer!.
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