Mostly Book Talk

For the National Year of Reading, we are sharing a series of short conversations with people who are involved in promoting reading with young people. This could be a programme, resources or a literary event, and we're giving them the opportunity to share what they do and how people can get involved.In this episode we are joined by Louisa Farrow from The Federation of Children's Book Groups.The Federation is a national voluntary self-funded organisation whose aim is to promote enjoyment and interest in children’s books and reading and to encourage the availability of books for children of all ages, from first picture books to young adult. They have groups around the country, whose members include parents and carers, teachers, and librarians, along with individual and professional members, who all want to nurture a love of reading through the sharing of books with children. They have strong national links with children’s publishers, authors, illustrators, and all organisations who support their aim of encouraging children to enjoy, read and share books and stories. The FCBG's National Share a Story Month is running throughout May and is an annual event designed to celebrate the fabulous world of children’s fiction and to inspire a love of reading by sharing stories. This year it has been chosen as a featured event for the National Year of ReadingIn 2026, the theme of National Share a Story Month is Once Upon a Storytime  and will shine a spotlight on the joy of reading aloud and the power of stories to bring people together. This nationwide celebration invites children, families, schools, and communities to connect through books, storytelling, and the spoken word. More information and resources can be found here and there recommended read aloud books can be found here.Send us a message

In this episode we are joined by author Rashmi Sirdeshpande about her new books - Hari Kumar Ultimate Superstar (illustrated by Mamta Singh) which is a diary style middle grade and Super Uma (illustrated by Nakul P.) which is picture book with lots of sparkle and the all important unicorn.Rashmi is as ever super busy with a number of new books coming up (details of the books mentioned below). She is also out and about doing festivals and events. The event she mentioned at the London Schools Literature Festival can be found here. She is also at the Brighton Festival on 17 May. There is a free online Super Uma event on 8th May with Puffin Schools and she is doing a free online event for the British Library about guidebooks, and discovering fascinating and delightful ways to explore place.Books mentionedHari Kumar Ultimate Superstar (illustrated by Mamta Singh)Hari Kumar Ultimate Superstar: Going for Gold (illustrated by Mamta Singh) out 13 AugustSuper Uma (illustrated by Nakul P.)Amazing Asia (illustrated by Jason Lyon)This is who I am (illustrated by Ruchi Mhasane) out in paperback 7 MayNever Show a T-Rex a Book (illustrated by Diane Ewen)Send us a message

For the National Year of Reading, we are sharing a series of short conversations with people who are involved in promoting reading with young people. This could be a programme, resources or a literary event, and we're giving them the opportunity to share what they do and how people can get involved.In this episode we are joined by Imogen Bond from EmpathyLabEmpathyLab develops, activates, and celebrates the power of stories to increase real-life empathy. Through reading, they help children and young people understand others, grow emotionally, and thrive. Through free events and resources to school programmes and learning webinars, EmpathyLab offers the tools to turn empathy into action. Look out for their Empathy Day Festival running 4-11 June 2026. Send us a message

For the National Year of Reading, we are sharing a series of short conversations with people who are involved in promoting reading with young people. This could be a programme, resources or a literary event, and we're giving them the opportunity to share what they do and how people can get involved.In this episode we are joined by Emma Bell, CEO of Chapter One.Through their volunteer reading partners, Chapter One provide one-to-one reading support to nearly 3,500 children in Birmingham, Bradford, Doncaster, East Sussex, Edinburgh, Glasgow, London, Leeds, Peterborough, Manchester, Middlesbrough, Warrington and West Cumbria.Send us a message

For the National Year of Reading, we are sharing a series of short conversations with people who are involved in promoting reading with young people. This could be a programme, resources or a literary event, and we're giving them the opportunity to share what they do and how you can get involved.In this episode we are joined by Amy Lewis, Head of Coram Beanstalk.Coram Beanstalk work with primary, secondary and virtual schools to enable children to grow a love for reading. They provide one-to-one in person reading support, giving children the help and encouragement they need to find books that inspire and delight, setting children on a path to become readers for life.Send us a message

For Part 6 we asked all our interviewees for one thing they would do to address the reading crisis. Properly funded libraries and librarians were unsurprisingly a strong theme, but also a rethink about how we position children's reading - how do we find the space for children to read and support children to experience the power and enjoyment of reading so they find their own routes into reading, and choose to do it. For this series we interviewed the following people (not all feature in every episode):Dapo Adeola - Author and the illustrator of many books including Look Up!, Clean Up!and My Dad is a Grizzly Bear.Sita Brahmachari - Author of many books including Artichoke Hearts, When Shadows Fall and Phoenix BrothersDr Darren Chetty - Lecturer at UCL Institute of Education and author, with Professor Karen Sands O'Connor, of Beyond the Secret Garden Professor Teresa Cremin - Professor of Education and Co-Director of the Literacy and Social Justice Centre at The Open UniversityCharlotte Hacking - Teacher Engagement Lead at the Helen Hamlyn Centre for Pedagogy and Research and Curriculum Lead at Herne Hill School Jenny Hawke - Children's Librarian and Chair of the Youth Library GroupTom Palmer - Author of many books including Angel of Grasmere, Resist and War Dog Glynn Palmer–Bell - Assistant Director of English at Castle View Enterprise Academy, SunderlandLouie Stowell - Author of many books including the Loki series, Otherland and the Dragon in the LibrarySabrina Sulliman - English teacher at Southfields Academy, South West LondonAt the end of the series we will invite comments and ideas from listeners so look out for how you can contribute to the discussion.Many thanks to everyone we interviewed and to our Co Producer Belinda Naylor.Send us a message

For the National Year of Reading, we are sharing a series of short conversations with people who are involved in promoting reading with young people. This could be a programme, resources or a literary event, and we're giving them the opportunity to share what they do and how people can get involved.In this episode we are joined by Andrea Reece who is the Managing Editor of the children's book magazine Books for Keeps.Started in the 1980s, Books for Keeps is a treasure trove of information about children's books and authors. It includes reviews and recommendations, a news and events section and regular essays about topics in children's literature, as well as an extensive digital archive going back over 40 years. It is a must read for anyone interested in children's literature and reading.Send us a message

In this episode we talk with Nadia Shireen about the mad and upredictable world of Grimwood and book five in the series, Rock the Vote! which has recently come out in paperback. Listen in to find out where Nadia gets her ideas from, how she writes, why illustrations are so important and what Titus's best cake would be.Nadia can be found on Instagram hereHer Grimwood books can be found here:GrimwoodGrimwood: Let the fur fly!Grimwood: Attack of the Stink Monster!Grimwood: Party AnimalsGrimwood: Rock the Vote!Send us a message

In this episode we talk to author Sophy Henn about her new picture book I Want Everything! - which is about how sometimes it might feel like you want everything, but when you really think about it you probably don't... We also discuss the latest installment in her action packed and madcap Happy Hills graphic novel series, Cheesy Bob Strikes!Sophy can be found on Instagram hereAnd the books we mentioned can be found through these linksI Want Everything!Cheesy Bob Strikes!PizazzBad Nana - Older not WiserLifesize DinosaursThe Best Worst Day EverPom Pom Gets the GrumpsSend us a message

In part 5 we continue looking at what works to support reading for pleasure, focusing more this time on opportunities for authors to engage with readers and the importance of wider family and community involvement and spaces to discover and talk about books.For this series we interviewed the following people (not all feature in every episode):Dapo Adeola - Author and the illustrator of many books including Look Up!, Clean Up!and My Dad is a Grizzly Bear.Sita Brahmachari - Author of many books including Artichoke Hearts, When Shadows Falland Phoenix BrothersDr Darren Chetty - Lecturer at UCL Institute of Education and author, with Professor Karen Sands O'Connor, of Beyond the Secret Garden Professor Teresa Cremin - Professor of Education and Co-Director of the Literacy and Social Justice Centre at The Open UniversityCharlotte Hacking - Teacher Engagement Lead at the Helen Hamlyn Centre for Pedagogy and Research and Curriculum Lead at Herne Hill School Jenny Hawke - Children's Librarian and Chair of the Youth Library GroupTom Palmer - Author of many books including Angel of Grasmere, Resist and War Dog Glynn Palmer–Bell - Assistant Director of English at Castle View Enterprise Academy, SunderlandLouie Stowell - Author of many books including the Loki series, Otherland and the Dragon in the LibrarySabrina Sulliman - English teacher at Southfields Academy, South West LondonAt the end of the series we will invite comments and ideas from listeners so look out for how you can contribute to the discussion.Many thanks to everyone we interviewed and to our Co Producer Belinda Naylor.Send us a message

We are joined by author Sarah Crossan to talk about her new verse novel, Gone for Good . It is a read in one go thriller about the troubled teen industry. Sixteen-year-old Connie is kidnapped in the middle of the night and taken to a 'behaviour modification programme' at Silver Lake and quickly gets drawn into the mystery of where missing resident Belle has gone to.We also talk about Sarah's thoughtful posts on social media about putting away our screens and reading for pleasure.Sarah can be found on Instagram here.And here are some of the books we discuss:Gone for GoodToffeeThe Weight of WaterOneWhere the Heart Should BeSend us a message

In part 4 we hear more about what we should be doing to address the decline in children’s reading for pleasure. In this episode we focus on approaches in schools and how to involve staff and pupils in creating a reading for pleasure culture.For this series we interviewed the following people (not all feature in every episode):Dapo Adeola - Author and the illustrator of many books including Look Up!, Clean Up!and My Dad is a Grizzly Bear.Sita Brahmachari - Author of many books including Artichoke Hearts, When Shadows Falland Phoenix BrothersDr Darren Chetty - Lecturer at UCL Institute of Education and author, with Professor Karen Sands O'Connor, of Beyond the Secret Garden Professor Teresa Cremin - Professor of Education and Co-Director of the Literacy and Social Justice Centre at The Open UniversityCharlotte Hacking - Teacher Engagement Lead at the Helen Hamlyn Centre for Pedagogy and Research and Curriculum Lead at Herne Hill School Jenny Hawke - Children's Librarian and Chair of the Youth Library GroupTom Palmer - Author of many books including Angel of Grasmere, Resist and War Dog Glynn Palmer–Bell - Assistant Director of English at Castle View Enterprise Academy, SunderlandLouie Stowell - Author of many books including the Loki series, Otherland and the Dragon in the LibrarySabrina Sulliman - English teacher at Southfields Academy, South West LondonAt the end of the series we will invite comments and ideas from listeners so look out for how you can contribute to the discussion.Many thanks to everyone we interviewed and to our Co Producer Belinda Naylor.Send us a message

For the National Year of Reading, we are sharing a series of short conversations with people who are involved in promoting reading with young people. This could be a programme, resources or a literary event, and we're giving them the opportunity to share what they do and how people can get involved.In this episode we are joined by Tanja Jennings, who is the joint Northern Ireland Representative on the Youth Libraries Group.Information about the Carnegies can be found here.Information about the Members' Fest can be found here.The Youth Libraries Group recommendations on Bookshop.org can be found here. And if you are interested in The Youth Library Review or newsletters, you can get more information from [email protected] Jennings write a blog, Good Night to Read, about books and reading which can be found here.Send us a message

In this episode we talk to Susannah Lloyd about the latest instalment in her Badgers are Go! series, Revenge of the Claw. Illustrated by Nici Gregory.We cover lots of ingenious disguises, pudding references and doing all the voices! Also the importance of having children who can help you name your characters.You can find out more about Susannah Lloyd's books here.The books we discussed can be found here:Badgers are Go!Badgers are Go! Revenge of the ClawWho Ate Steve?Send us a message

In part 3 of our mini series about 'The Reading Crisis', we hear more about access, but also about who decides which books get published, how they're marketed, and how they get into children's hands, as well as the lack of coverage in the media of children's literature.  For this series we interviewed the following people (not all feature in every episode):Dapo Adeola - Author and the illustrator of many books including Look Up!, Clean Up!and My Dad is a Grizzly Bear.Sita Brahmachari - Author of many books including Artichoke Hearts, When Shadows Falland Phoenix BrothersDr Darren Chetty - Lecturer at UCL Institute of Education and author, with Professor Karen Sands O'Connor, of Beyond the Secret Garden Professor Teresa Cremin - Professor of Education and Co-Director of the Literacy and Social Justice Centre at The Open UniversityCharlotte Hacking - Teacher Engagement Lead at the Helen Hamlyn Centre for Pedagogy and Research and Curriculum Lead at Herne Hill School Jenny Hawke - Children's Librarian and Chair of the Youth Library GroupTom Palmer - Author of many books including Angel of Grasmere, Resist and War Dog Glynn Palmer–Bell - Assistant Director of English at Castle View Enterprise Academy, SunderlandLouie Stowell - Author of many books including the Loki series, Otherland and the Dragon in the LibrarySabrina Sulliman - English teacher at Southfields Academy, South West LondonAt the end of the series we will invite comments and ideas from listeners so look out for how you can contribute to the discussion.Many thanks to everyone we interviewed and to our Co Producer Belinda Naylor.Send us a message

 For the National Year of Reading, we are sharing a series of short conversations with people who are involved in promoting reading with young people. This could be a programme,  resources or a literary event, and we're giving them the opportunity to share what they do and how people can get involved.For our first conversation, we are joined by Mo O'Hara from Stepping Into Stories Kids' Lit Fest. Further information about the festival can be found here.If you run an organisation or an event that supports children and young people's reading and would like to have a converstation about what you do any special activities you are running for the National Year of Reading and how people can join in, do get in touch via our website www.mostlybooktalk.comSend us a message

In part two of our mini series about The Reading Crisis, we look at how testing, technology and access to books are affecting reading for pleasure.For this series we interviewed the following people (not all feature in every episode):Dapo Adeola - Author and the illustrator of many books including Look Up!, Clean Up!and My Dad is a Grizzly Bear.Sita Brahmachari - Author of many books including Artichoke Hearts, When Shadows Falland Phoenix BrothersDr Darren Chetty - Lecturer at UCL Institute of Education and author, with Professor Karen Sands O'Connor, of Beyond the Secret Garden Professor Teresa Cremin - Professor of Education and Co-Director of the Literacy and Social Justice Centre at The Open UniversityCharlotte Hacking - Teacher Engagement Lead at the Helen Hamlyn Centre for Pedagogy and Research and Curriculum Lead at Herne Hill School Jenny Hawke - Children's Librarian and Chair of the Youth Library GroupTom Palmer - Author of many books including Angel of Grasmere, Resist and War Dog Glynn Palmer–Bell - Assistant Director of English at Castle View Enterprise Academy, SunderlandLouie Stowell - Author of many books including the Loki series, Otherland and the Dragon in the LibrarySabrina Sulliman - English teacher at Southfields Academy, South West London At the end of the series we will invite comments and ideas from listeners so look out for how you can contribute to the discussion.Many thanks to everyone we interviewed and to our Co Producer Belinda Naylor.Send us a message

The first in our mini series about The Reading Crisis - why children aren't reading and what we can do about it. In this episode we look at what the data tells us about children's reading and start to discuss what some of the barriers are to children reading for pleasure.For this series we interviewed the following people (not all feature in every episode):Dapo Adeola - Author and the illustrator of many books including Look Up!, Clean Up! and My Dad is a Grizzly Bear.Sita Brahmachari - Author of many books including Artichoke Hearts, When Shadows Fall and Phoenix BrothersDr Darren Chetty - Lecturer at UCL Institute of Education and author with Professor Karen Sands O'Connor of Beyond the Secret Garden Professor Teresa Cremin - Professor of Education and Co-Director of the Literacy and Social Justice Centre at The Open UniversityCharlotte Hacking - Teacher Engagement Lead at the Helen Hamlyn Centre for Pedagogy and Research and Curriculum Lead at Herne Hill School Jenny Hawke - Children's Librarian and Chair of the Youth Library GroupTom Palmer - Author of many books including Angel of Grasmere, Resist and War Dog Glynn Palmer–Bell - Assistant Director of English at Castle View Enterprise Academy, SunderlandLouie Stowell - Author of many books including the Loki series, Otherland and the Dragon in the LibrarySabrina Sulliman - English teacher at Southfields Academy, South West London At the end of the series we will invite comments and ideas from listeners so look out for how you can contribute to the discussion.Many thanks to everyone we interviewed and to our Co Producer Belinda Naylor.Send us a message

In in this episode we talk to AM Dassu about her latest book, Wild Journey. This is a collection of five interlinked stories about children around the world all connected by the sight of a murmuration of starlings. Fully illustrated by Joe Lillington.AM Dassu's website can be found here and links to the books we discussed are below:Wild JourneyBoy, EverywhereFight BackCan You Find my Eid Presents?Show Racism the Red Card (out Sept 2026)Send us a message

A quick trailer for our new mini series which will be out soon on the 'reading crisis' where we explore why children aren't reading and what we can do about it. Look out for the first episode.Send us a message

We are back and have an episode all about libraries. First up is an interview with Rebecca Gediking who is the Head of Libraries at GLL and also the Chair of the GLL Literary Foundation - which does lots of great work supporting children's authors in the areas in which GLL have libraries. Events there for schools to look out for and ideas for how other libraries might work with authors.After that we talk to Barbara Band about her new book Championing Your School Library - a practical guide to advocacy, marketing and promotion which is of interest to both school librarians - in making sure everyone knows what the library offers and values it - and teachers who may not yet be using their school library to its full potential.Send us a message

We talk to Nathanael Lessore about his very successful debut and follow up books, about what's important when writing for teens and the role of humour.You can find Nate's books here:Teen/KS3 BooksSteady for ThisKing of NothingWhat Happens OnlineMiddle Grade BooksSolving Crimes is NOT my SuperpowerTime Travel is NOT my SuperpowerSAIL Fest (South Asian Children's Illustration and Literature)To find out more about SAIL Fest have a look on their website.And to check out all the authors that were there have a look here.Send us a message

Just in time for National Poetry Day, we have an interview with Dr Julie Blake the founder and co-director of Poetry by Heart. Working with schools across the whole of England, over 128,000 pupils take part every year, learning poems by heart and performing them. There are lots of fantastic clips on their website of young people performing and all the information you need to sign up this year. And it is completely free to do so.We also talk about Ross Montgomery's latest books - lots to recommend here. For children there is Small Wonder and for adults The Murder at World's End . Enjoy!Send us a message

Author Ashley Thorpe joins us to talk about his middle grade books The Boy to Beat the Gods and Spirit Warriors. Find out about how he was inspired by West African and Jamaican mythology and how long it really does take to have a breakout success as your debut book.There is also a new Loki book out by Louie Stowell - A Bad God's Guide to Causing Chaos and there is a giveaway for a signed copy (UK only) - details will be on our socials. Also find out about her Lokifesto.If you are looking for any of the books we talk about on the podcast, they can be found in our Bookshop.org shop here (and if you buy them we earn a small commission and a donation also goes to support independent bookshops). Win, Win.Send us a message

We are joined by Maisie Chan to talk about her latest book, Nate Yu's Blast from the Past. It's a draws on the untold history of the Chinese Labour Corps in WW1 in a story that combines a ghost story with a warm and humorous exploration of belonging, friendship and family. Look out for the event that Maisie mentions at the British Library in September which can be found here Maisie's website can be found here with lots more information about her books and other resources.Her other books include:Danny Chung Does Not Do MathsKeep Dancing, Lizzie ChuTiger Warrior: Attack of the Dragon King: Book 1We also talked about books set at the seaside. These included:The Last Pebble, by Alex HorneChanging Tides, by Julia MoscardoOur Pebbles, by JarvisVanishing Edge, by Zillah BethellTurtle Moon, by Hannah Gold, illustrated by Levi PinfoldIf you have any book recommendations or topics you would like us to cover, get in touch.  Send us a message

In this episode we talk with Justin Somper about the latest book in his Pirate Academy series, Sword Echoes. It came out in the UK in May and the series sets sail in Australia next week. Full of adventure and intrigue - perfect for a summer read. Justin can be found on Instagram hereAnd links to his books are below:New Kid On Deck: Pirate Academy #1Missing at Sea: Pirate Academy #2Sword Echoes: Pirate Academy #3Demons of the OceanTide of TerrorThe Week Junior's Book Awards can be found hereAnd the apps we talked about are (no sponsorship involved!)The StoryGraphNovellicSend us a message

We talk with Tom McLaughlin about his graphic novel Alan, King of the Universe. Alan is an orange cat convinced he is born to rule. Blessed with opposable thumbs and a side kick called Fido, he spends his days dreaming up ways to take up the universe.Tom's website can be found here and here are some links to his books:Alan King of the UniverseThe Day that Aliens (nearly) Ate our BrainsThe Day I Became the Most Wanted Boy in the WorldThe Accidental Prime MinisterYou've Been WerewolfedSend us a message

Join us to hear all about Jasbinder Bilan's new book, Naeli and the Secret Song. Find out where the idea came from and the research she did. Here are links to all of Jasbinder's BooksNaeli and the Secret SongAarti and the Blue GodsTamarind and the Star of IshtaAsha and the Spirit BirdIndia, Incredible India, illustrated by Nina ChakrabartiXanthe and the Ruby CrownCalling the Whales, illustrated by Skylar WhiteNush and the Stolen EmeraldPaloma and the Bear, illustrated by Skylar WhiteAnya's Quest, illustrated by Jane RayAnd links to the book prizes we mentioned;Jhalak PrizeThe Women's PrizeThe Week Junior Book AwardsBranford Boase AwardKeep up to date with Mostly Book Talk's newsletter on SubstackSend us a message

We are joined by Alison Jewitt a teacher from South London who leads a Carnegie Shadowing Group at her school and Sophia Bower a school librarian from Durham who is a Carnegie judge this year. We talk about shadowing groups and then all of the books on the Carnegie Medal for Writing shortlist. Sophia then hides while the rest of us make our predictions about who wins - we were completely wrong last year, can we do better this year?Carnegie Medal Short Listed BooksAll That it Ever Meant, Blessing MusaririGlasgow Boys, Margaret McDonaldKing of Nothing, Nathanael LessoreLittle Bang, Kelly McCaughrainPlay, Luke PalmerThe Final Year, Matt GoodfellowThe Things we Leave Behind, Clare FurnissTreacle Town, Brian ConaghanSend us a message

Join us talking with Cath Howe about the latest book in her Call the Puffins series, Tiny and the Cave Ghost (illustrated by Ella Okstad). We talk about the importance of early reading books and wonder whether there is a big meeting of authors where they decide which animals they are going to write about (you never know...)! We also go down memory lane with the Tufty Club and it all gets a bit silly...Cath's other books include:In the Call the Puffins series (all illustrated by Ella Okstad):Call the PuffinsTiny's Brave RescueMuffin and the ShipwreckHer middle grade books:Ella on the OutsideNot My FaultHow to be MeMy Life on FireThe InsidersCath's website is here with resources to go with her books and information about school workshops.Send us a message

In this episode we talk with Professor Teresa Cremin, the co-director of the Open University's Literacy and Social Justice Centre, discuss what the research says about children's reading for pleasure and the work the OU is doing to support teachers develop reading for pleasure cultures in their schools.You can find out more about the OU Reading for Pleasure activities here.Some recent books by Teresa Cremin include: Reading Teachers: Nurturing Reading for Pleasure, ed. Teresa Cremin, Helen Hendry, Lucy Rodriguez Leon and Natalia KucirkovaReading for Pleasure: International Perspectives, ed. Teresa Cremin and Sarah McGeownTeaching English Creatively, by Teresa CreminChildren Reading for Pleasure in the Digital Age: Mapping Reader Engagement by Natalia Kucirkova and Teresa CreminSend us a message

Listen to Lisa Thompson talk about her new book, The Boy in the Tree (illustrated by Katie Kear), and also her many other books including the forthcoming follow up to The Goldfish Boy - The Skeleton Puzzle  (out in September.)Information about all Lisa's books and also extra resources can be found at www.lisathompsonauthor.comLinks to the books we talked aboutThe Goldfish BoyOwen and the SoldierThe Treasure HuntersSidney and Carrie Have a PartyWorry BootsThe Boy in the TreeThe Magpie RiddleThe Skeleton PuzzleSend us a message

In this episode we talk with Tom Percival about his book The Wrong Shoes and also about some of his picture books. Tom has a website here, but probably the best way to stay up to date with what he is up to is on Instagram @tompercivalbooks or on X @TomPercivalSaysHis books can be found here:The Wrong Shoes (currently in hardback, paperback available 8 May 2025)Quiet (illustrated by Richard Jones)The InvisiblePerfectly NormanThe BridgesSquirrel and Duck - Mission ImprobableSome of the other books mentioned:The Harder they Fall, Bali RaiIt's a No-Money Day, Kate MilnerThe Great (Food) Bank Heist, Onjali Q RaufIf you are doing something interesting in a school or other setting to support young people's reading for pleasure and would like to come and talk on the podcast, get in touch at [email protected] us a message

An interview with debut author Brogen Murphy about their book, Wildlands. It’s 2050 and most of northern England and southern Scotland has been turned into a vast rewilding project. An interrupted train journey and series of mishaps leaves two sisters trying to survive in this untouched wilderness... Brogen's website is here and they can be found on Instagram @brogen_murphyWe also mention the Carnegie shortlist which can be found here.Send us a message

Join us talking with Darrell Wakelam about his book Art Shaped - Sustainable 3D Art Projects to Kickstart Children's Creativity. There are lots of curriculum links and all the projects are made from easily obtained recycled materials - ideal for teachers, librarians and parents.Darrell's website can be found hereAnd he can be found on social media hereBlueSky @darrellwakelam.bsky.socialInstagram @darrellwakelamSend us a message

In this episode we have an interview with Darren Chetty and Karen Sands O'Connor about their book Beyond the Secret Garden - Racialised Minorities in British Children's Books.It's published by the English and Media Centre (a great resource too) and is available here.It is based on Darren and Karen's regular column in Books for Keeps which is also well worth a read.Send us a message

In children's mental health week we talk to Rachel Fuller about her picture book Bee which explores how it feels to be misunderstood and celebrates difference. We also talk to Tanya Goodin about The Teenage Guide to Digital Wellbeing which offers lots of useful advice and activities to help achieve a balance between being in the digital world and the real world (something not just teenagers could benefit from!).Books in this episode:Bee by Rachel Fuller, illustrated by Emilia WharfeMore information about Bee the ballet can be found hereThe Teenage Guide to Digital Wellbeing by Tanya GoodinMore information about Tanya's work can be found hereThe other book mentioned in this episode is People Like Stars by Patrice Lawrence.Send us a message

We have an interview with Susan Brownrigg about her new book, Wrong Tracks, and with Publisher, Hazel Holmes from UCLan about the importance of regional voices and regional publishing.Here are Susan's books:Wrong TracksGracie Fairshaw and the Mysterious GuestGracie Fairshaw and the Trouble at the TowerGracie Fairshaw and The Missing ReelKintana and the Captain's CurseWebsite: https://www.susanbrownrigg.com/BlueSky: @susanbrownrigg.bsky.socialInstagram: @susanbrownriggAnd UCLan can be found here:Website: https://uclanpublishing.com/BlueSky: @uclanpublishing.bsky.socialInstagram: @uclan_publishingOther books mentioned:The History of Information by Chris HaughtonCane Warriors, by Alex WheatleBeyond the Secret Garden, Darren Chetty and Karen Sands-O'ConnorWhen the Sky Falls, by Phil EarleResist, by Tom PalmerThe Line They Drew Through Us by Hiba Noor KhanBirdie by J P RoseYours from the Tower, by Sally NichollsSend us a message

Join us for Episode 19 where we have an interview with Lucy Ann Unwin and talk about her new book How to be a Revolutionary.  We also discuss our New Year’s reading resolutions and do some book reviews of our holiday reading.Here are Lucy's books:How to Be a Revolutionary by Lucy Ann UnwinThe Octopus, Dadu and Me by Lucy Ann Unwin, illustrated by Lucy Mulligan Lucy can be found here:Instagram @lucyannunwinBlueSky @lucyannunwin.bsky.socialhttps://www.lucyannunwin.comHere are the books we talked about:Children's and YA Darkly by Marisha Pessl Reek by Alastair Chisholm, illustrated by George Caltsoudas Little House by Katya Balen, illustrated by Richard Johnson Pernickety Boo by Sally Gardner, illustrated by Chris Mould AdultsThe Switch by Lily Samson The Burial Place by Stig AbellI Feel Bad About My Neck by Nora Ephron, with an introduction by Dolly Alderton This Is the Story of a Happy Marriage by Ann PatchettSend us a message

A bumper middle grade episode. We talk to Dev Kothari about her debut Bringing Back Kay-Kay and to Louie Stowell about Loki: A Bad God's Guide to Making Enemies the fourth book in the bestselling Loki series. Bringing Back Kay-Kay is a mystery and quest as Lena tries to find her brother Kay-Kay who has disappeared on his way back from summer camp. We talk to Dev about what it’s like writing a debut and how the children’s book market is different in India.In Loki: A Bad God's Guide to Making Enemies one of Loki’s many enemies, Vinir the elf, turns up and challenges Loki to a magical duel. Loki hasn't got a clue why, but knows he has to get out of it somehow… Great fun and we talk to Louie about her long standing interest in Norse mythology and about the questions she gets asked about publishing.Dev Kothari can be found online here:https://devkothari.com/BlueSky @devkothari.bsky.socialX @DevyaniNKInstagram @devyani_NKHer book can be found here:Bringing Back Kay-KayLouie Stowell can be found online here:https://louiestowell.com/BlueSky @louiestowell.bsky.socialX @LouiestowellInstagram @louiestowellLouie's books can be found here:Loki: A Bad God's Guide to Making EnemiesLoki: A Bad God's Guide to Being GoodLoki: A Bad God's Guide to Ruling the World Loki: A Bad God's Guide to Taking the BlameThe Dragon in the LibraryOtherlandSend us a message

We talk to Rashmi Sirdeshpande about her latest book which is a beautifully illustrated by Jason Lyon.  Amazing Asia is fully illustrated, large format encyclopaedia of Asia which looks at the history and diversity of the continent.Other books by Rashmi Sirdeshpande include:Never Show A T-Rex A Book!Yes You Can, Cow!Dadaji's PaintbrushCash: How to Earn It, Save It, Spend It, Grow It, Give ItHow to Change the WorldRashmi's website is https://www.rashmisirdeshpande.com/and she can be found on social media hereBlueSky @rashmiwriting.bsky.socialInstagram @rashmiwritingX @RashmiWritingJason Lyon's website is https://www.jason-lyon.com/and he can be found on social media hereBlueSky @jasonlyon.bsky.socialInstagram @jasonlyon_X @jasonlyon_Other book discussed in the episode are:The Teenage Guide to Digital Wellbeing, by Tanya GoodinThe Amazing World of Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler: Discover the wonderful worlds behind the nation's favourite picture-books, by Amanda Li, Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler Art Shaped - Sustainable 3D Art Projects to Kickstart Children's Creativity, by Darrell WakelamGraphic Novel Builder: The Illustrated Guide to Making Your Own Comics, by Edward RossThe History of Information, by Chris HaughtonSend us a message

An interview with David Litchfield about his new book The Dinosaur Next Door and about the upcoming 10th Anniversary Edition of The Bear and the Piano.David's other books include:The Bear, The Piano, The Dog and the FiddleThe Bear, the Piano and Little Bear's ConcertGrandad's Secret GiantLights on Cotton RockKid Christmas: of the Claus Brothers Toy ShopHis website is https://www.davidlitchfieldillustration.com/And he can be found on Intstagram @david_c_litchfieldBlueSky @dc-litchfield.bsky.socialWe also talk about the following books:The Bed Book by Sylvia Plath, illustrated by Cindy WumeThe Bridges by Tom Percival Who Ate Steve? by Susannah Lloyd , Illustrated by Kate Hindley The Cafe at the Edge of the Woods by Mikey Please Flood by Alvaro F. VillaNing and the Night Spirits by Adriena FongSend us a message

Interviews with Naomi Jones and Rebecca Ashdown who won the Diverse Book Award Readers' Choice Award for Thunder Boots and with Erika Meza who won the Picture Book Category with To The Other Side.Other books by Naomi JonesThe Perfect FitHow to Make a StoryThe Odd FishOther books by Rebecca AshdownMy Granny is a QueenThe WhopperHow the Library (Not the Prince) Saved RapunzelOther books by Erika MezaStop that's not my StoryThe Memory Book!Seven SistersSend us a message

Interviews with the winners of the Diverse Book Awards YA categories - Simon James Green, winner of the YA Readers' Choice Award for Boy Like Me; Sophie Cameron, runner up for the YA Category for Away with Words; and Jenny Ireland, winner of the YA Category with The First Move.A full list of the books shortlisted for the YA Diverse Book Awards can be found here.Simon James GreenBoy Like MeThe Big AskLlama GlamaramaA Year of Pride and Joy: 52 LGBTQ+ Voices Share Their Life PassionsDance on My Grave: Summer of 1985, Aidan ChamberSophie CameronAway with WordsOur Sister AgainLast Bus to EverlandOut of the BlueJenny IrelandThe First MoveThe Boy Next DoorMatched UpSend us a message

In this episode we talk with J P Rose about her new book, Birdie. And Ali interviews Anthony McGowan with Jason Rosam (originally broadcast on Riverside Radio) about his book Dogs of the Deadlands.Birdie by J P Rose is a set in 1950s Yorkshire and is a story of hope and courage following Birdie Bagshaw and the racism she experiences moving to a mining village but also the bond she forms with a pit pony Mr Duke. J P Rose's YA book is The Haunting of Tyrese Walker.  She has also written lots of adult thrillers as Jacqui Rose including The Women and Loyalty.Her website is https://jprosewriter.com/#homeAnd she can be found on social media here:Twitter/X @jprosewriterInstagram @jprosewriterAnthony McGowan's Dogs of the Deadlands is set in Chernobyl in 1986. In the middle of the night Natasha has to leave her home and her puppy behind. Will the dogs survive without humans...Anthony McGowan's other books include: Lark, Pike, Brock and Rook.He can be found on social media here:Twitter/X @anthony_mcgowanInstagram @tonymcgowanSend us a message

An interview with Amy Lewis, Head of Coram Beanstalk and Sara Browne, one of their volunteers. Plus chat about 100 Tales from the Tokyo Ghost Café by Julian Sedgwick and Chie KutsuwadaCoram Beanstalk  Link to the Media Trust Film Website: https://www.beanstalkcharity.org.uk/Find out about volunteering: https://www.beanstalkcharity.org.uk/Pages/Category/about-volunteeringMedia Trust Charity FilmsLink to information about filmsBook Clubs in School’s FilmBooks mentioned:You Choose, by Pippa Goodhart and Nick SharrattWhere the Wild Things Are, by Maurice SendakPress Here, by Hervé TulletThe Book with No Pictures, by B.J. NovakBook Discussion100 Tales from the Tokyo Ghost Café by Julian Sedgwick and Chie KutsuwadaTsunami Girl, by Julian Sedgwick and Chie KutsuwadaThe Diverse Book Awards2024 ShortlistsSend us a message

In this episode we talk to Jacob Sager Weinstein about his picture book, What Rosa Brought (illustrated by Eliza Wheeler).  We also chat about some picture books (old and new) that have caught our attention recently.Jacob Sager WeinsteinWhat Rosa Brought, illustrated by Eliza WheelerThe City of Secret RiversThe City of Guardian StonesOther books mentionedThe Diary of a Young Girl, Anne FrankWhen Hittler Stole Pink Rabbit, Judith KerrTadpole’s Promise, Jeanne Willis, illustrated by Tony RossDazzle Ships: World War I and the Art of Confusion, Chris Barton, illustrated by Victo Ngai Contacts:Jacob Sager WeinsteinWebsite: https://www.jacobsagerweinstein.com/ and Bluesky: @jacobsw.bsky.socialEliza WheelerWebsite: https://wheelerstudio.com/2024/07/08/behind-the-rosa-art-vienna-research/(worth checking out for interesting background on how she developed the drawings for What Rosa Brought.)Instagram: @wheelerstudioPicture Books mentioned in book chatHarry the Dirty Dog, Gene Zion, illustrated by Margaret Bloy Graham The Song of the Nightingale, Tanya Landman, illustrated by Laura CarlinThe Bowerbird, Julia Donaldson, illustrated by Catherine RaynerGigantic, Rob BiddulphThe Girl and the Mermaid, Hollie Hughes, illustrated by Sarah MassiniThe Big Dreaming, Michael Rosen, illustrated by Daniel Egnéus Sam Francisco, King of the Disco, Sarah Tagholm, illustrated by Binny TalibThe Fastest Tortoise in Town, Howard Calvert, illustrated by Karen ObuhanychHippos go Berserk, Sandra BoyntonMrs McTats and her Houseful of Cats, Alyssa Satin Capucilli,  illustrated by Joan Rankin  A Million Chameleons, James YoungSleepy Bears, Mem Fox, illustrated by Kerry ArdenSend us a message

Interviews with YA authors Diana Anyakwo and Denise BrownIn this episode we talk to Diana Anyakwo about her book My Life as a Chameleon which has just been longlisted for the Diverse Book Awards.  We also talk to Denise Brown about her second book, It All Started with a Lie.Diana AnyakwoMy Life as a ChameleonContact for school visits: https://contactanauthor.co.uk/author/3518/diana-anyakwoInstagram @dianaanyakwo Books MentionedBroken Threads: My Family From Empire to Independence, Mishal HusainThe Chronicles of Narnia, C.S. LewisMalory Towers, Enid BlytonDenise BrownIt All Started with a LieI am WinterWebsite: https://www.denisebrownauthor.co.uk/Instagram @denisebrownukBooks MentionedWhat Katy Did, Susan CoolidgeBooks mentioned in book chatThe Summer Dare, Joanna DoddMurder on a School Night, Kate Weston How to Die Famous, Benjamin Dean Tomorrow and Tomorrow and Tomorrow,Gabrielle Zevin 100 Tales from the Tokyo Ghost Cafe, Julian Sedgwick and Chie KutsuwadaSonglight, Moira BuffiniThe Girl who Couldn’t Lie, Radhika Sanghani King of Nothing, Nathanael LessoreBoy Overboard, Morris GleitzmanThe Secret of Golden Island, Natasha FarrantSend us a message

In this episode we talk to Tom Palmer about his latest book Angel of Grasmere and his other Lake District books. Plus we talk to Deborah Maclaren, the Managing Director of  Love Reading about how they are building a social purpose into their book selling.Tom Palmer’s Lake District booksArmistice Runner After the War Angel of Grasmere Other books mentionedArctic Star D-Day DogResistInformation on all Tom Palmer’s books can be found on his websiteTom can be found on Twitter @tompalmerauthorLoveReading4Kids - information about how their donations work can be found here and on how to set up wish lists hereBooks mentioned by Deborah:Stig of the Dump by Clive KingThe Bee Sting by Paul MurrayThis Is Why We Lied by Karin SlaughterThe Wrong Shoes by Tom PercivalThe Final Year by Matt GoodfellowCrossing the Line by Tia FisherBrambly Hedge books by Jill BarklemGive AwayCheck out our social media for a chance to win a stack of books from Love Reading (UK postage only). To enter the competition: On Twitter/X, entrants will need to follow @lovereadingkids and @Mostly_BookTalk and retweet and/or comment on the competition tweet.  On Instagram, entrants will need to follow @lovereadingkids and @mostlybooktalk and comment and/or like the post announcing the competition. Full T&Cs hereSend us a message

Film Clubs and books with Into Film Ambassador Charlotte Harrison plus an interview with author Ross Montgomery about his new book, I am RebelCharlotte Harrison can be found on social media: @sometimesmoviesFind out more about Into Film here.Books mentioned:Princess Bride, by William GoldmanRoss Montgomery can be found on social media: @mossmontmomeryHis website is hereBooks mentioned:I am RebelThe Chime SeekersAnd Ross’s other books can be found hereFind us on social media:X/Twitter: @Mostly_BookTalkInstagram: @mostlybooktalkGet in touch:[email protected] Send us a message