The Children's Book Review: Growing Readers Podcast

In this heartfelt episode, award-winning author and illustrator Lauren Castillo shares the personal experiences and meaningful inspirations behind her latest picture book, Just Like Millie. Castillo opens up about how her own childhood, hometown, and beloved pets influenced the story of a shy young girl who finds courage and connection through her new canine companion. From exploring themes of anxiety and friendship to sprinkling in local Easter eggs, Castillo offers a glimpse into her thoughtful creative process and layered approach to storytelling through both words and art. Join us for an intimate conversation that will make you laugh, cry, and fall in love with "Just Like Millie" before even turning the first page. Transcription: ⁠You can read the ⁠transcription on ⁠The Children's Book Review (coming soon)⁠⁠. Order a Copy: Just Like Millie on ⁠⁠⁠Amazon⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠Bookshop.org⁠⁠⁠. Nana in the Country on ⁠Amazon⁠ and ⁠Bookshop.org⁠. Resources: Find Lauren Castillo at laurencastillo.com and follow her on Twitter @studiocastillo. Lauren Castillo Talks About: Just Like MillieNana in the Country --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thechildrensbookreview/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thechildrensbookreview/support

In this insightful interview, acclaimed middle-grade author Dan Gemeinhart discusses his highly anticipated standalone companion novel Coyote Lost and Found, the follow-up to his beloved bestseller The Remarkable Journey of Coyote Sunrise. Gemeinhart reflects on the evolution of the complex relationship between his resilient protagonist Coyote and her grief-stricken father Rodeo while also exploring the poignant themes of loss, healing, and finding one's place in the world that are woven throughout both narratives. The #1 New York Times-bestselling author also offers a glimpse into his creative process, from drawing inspiration from his lifelong love of reading to the challenges of seamlessly incorporating timely elements like the COVID-19 pandemic. Additionally, Gemeinhart discusses his upcoming picture book Once Upon a Friend and the distinct approaches required for crafting middle-grade novels versus picture books. With his signature blend of heart, humor, and authenticity, Gemeinhart provides a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at his acclaimed body of work and the powerful messages he aims to impart to young readers. This episode is a must-listen for fans of Gemeinhart's beloved stories as well as anyone interested in the craft of writing impactful children's literature. Transcription: ⁠You can read the ⁠transcription on ⁠The Children's Book Review⁠⁠. Order a Copy: Coyote Lost and Found on ⁠⁠Amazon⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠Bookshop.org⁠⁠. Once Upon a Friend on Amazon and Bookshop.org. Resources: Find Dan Gemeinhart online at http://dangemeinhart.com. Dan Gemeinhart Talks About: Once Upon a Friend --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thechildrensbookreview/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thechildrensbookreview/support

In this episode, we welcome special guest Alysson Foti Borque, author of the beloved Alycat series. Alysson shares insights into the creation of her heartwarming children's books and the inspiration behind her characters. Join Bianca and Alysson as they delve into the latest addition to the series, Alycat and the Sunday Scaries, exploring themes of friendship, bravery, and overcoming fears. Discover how Alysson infuses valuable life lessons into her stories while captivating young readers with engaging adventures. Get ready for an insightful conversation about the power of children's literature to inspire and uplift. Transcription: ⁠You can read the ⁠transcription on ⁠The Children's Book Review⁠⁠. Order a Copy: Alycat and the Sunday Scaries on ⁠Amazon⁠ and ⁠Bookshop.org⁠. Resources: Find Alysson and Alycat online at www.alycatseries.com. Check out the virtual book tour for Alycat and the Sunday Scaries here: https://www.thechildrensbookreview.com/alycat-and-the-sunday-scaries-awareness-tour/ Alysson Foti Borque Talks About: Alycat and the Sunday ScariesAlycat and the Copycat --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thechildrensbookreview/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thechildrensbookreview/support

In this engaging conversation, Andrea Wang shares insights into her latest book, Summer at Squee, where she explores themes of community, identity, and inclusivity. Delve into the heart of Squee Camp, a vibrant setting where Phoenny Fang navigates friendships, cultural experiences, and her own biases. Discover the inspirations behind Andrea's storytelling, from her personal experiences at a Chinese heritage camp to her reflections on anti-Asian racism. Learn how Andrea crafted authentic representation while making the story relatable to a diverse audience. Uncover the threads of empathy and belonging woven throughout her narrative and explore the transformative power of embracing joy and shared experiences. As Andrea reflects on her writing process and highlights from the book, listeners will gain a deeper understanding of the rich tapestry of identity and community depicted in Summer at Squee. Transcription: ⁠You can read the ⁠transcription on ⁠The Children's Book Review⁠⁠. Order a Copy: Summer at Squee on Amazon and Bookshop.org. Discussion Topics: Andrea Wang Talks About: Exploring the Concept of Community: How Summer at Squee portrays the dynamics of community within the camp setting. Cultural Identity and Representation: How the book tackles themes of cultural identity, particularly focusing on Phoenny Fang's journey of self-discovery as she navigates her Chinese heritage within a multicultural environment. Addressing Bias and Prejudice: How the narrative addresses issues of bias and prejudice, particularly in Phoenny's interactions with other campers. Writing Process and Inspirations: Her creative process behind crafting Summer at Squee, inspirations for the story, including her own experiences at a Chinese heritage camp, and how she approached the development of characters and plot elements. Themes of Inclusivity and Belonging: The importance of creating inclusive spaces, both within literature and in real-life communities, and ways to foster a sense of belonging for all individuals. Resources: You can visit Andrea Wang online at ⁠⁠https://andreaywang.com/ and https://www.instagram.com/andreawhywang/. Our Book Spotlight Sponsor: P.J. Davis, author of Nemesis and the Vault of Lost Time Available on Amazon For more information, visit https://www.PJDavisAuthor.com. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thechildrensbookreview/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thechildrensbookreview/support

In this episode of The Growing Readers Podcast, host Bianca Schulze welcomes the legendary author, poet, and children's book writer Jane Yolen. From discussing Yolen's daily routine of writing poetry to exploring her deep connection to literature and storytelling, this conversation is a journey into the heart and soul of a prolific writer. Yolen shares insights into her creative process, the inspiration behind her works, and the power of poetry in shaping young minds. Join Bianca and Jane as they delve into the magic of words, wisdom, and wonder in this captivating episode. Transcription: ⁠You can read the ⁠transcription on ⁠The Children's Book Review⁠⁠. Order a Copy: In and Out the Window on ⁠⁠⁠Amazon⁠⁠⁠ or ⁠⁠⁠Bookshop.org⁠⁠⁠. Discussion Topics: Jane Yolen Talks About: In and Out the WindowIn and Out the Window Resources: You can visit Jane Yolen online at ⁠https://www.janeyolen.com/ or follow her on Facebook at Facebook.com/JaneYolen. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thechildrensbookreview/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thechildrensbookreview/support

Join us for a captivating exploration of Kate DiCamillo's latest literary masterpiece, Ferris. Prepare to be swept away by a heartwarming love story between a granddaughter and her grandmother, where love in all its forms intertwines with the search for light in the darkest of times. Discover how music serves as a beacon of hope in this evocative tale, where characters come to life on the page. Kate shares her writing process, prioritizing emotional resonance over mere calculation. Don't miss out on this magical conversation as we delve into the soul-stirring themes of Ferris and uncover the transformative power of storytelling with the incomparable Kate DiCamillo. Transcription: ⁠You can read the ⁠transcription on ⁠The Children's Book Review⁠⁠. Order a Copy: Ferris on ⁠⁠Amazon⁠⁠ or ⁠⁠Bookshop.org⁠⁠. Discussion Topics: Kate DiCamillo Talks About: Ferris Resources: For more information, visit https://www.katedicamillo.com/. Truth Is the Arrow, Mercy Is the Bow: A DIY Manual for the Construction of Stories by Steve Almond --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thechildrensbookreview/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thechildrensbookreview/support

In this episode, sit down with critically acclaimed author Barbara Dee to delve into her latest middle-grade novel, Unstuck. Listeners are treated to a sneak peek into this novel that follows protagonist Lyla as she grapples with anxiety, writer's block, and the pressures of meeting a writing contest deadline while trying to rescue her older sister, Dahlia, both on and off the page. Barbara Dee's insightful discussion offers aspiring writers and readers alike a glimpse into the creative process and the power of storytelling to tackle real-life issues with empathy and heart. Tune in to this enlightening episode for a behind-the-scenes look at "Unstuck" and Barbara's journey as a middle-grade author. Transcription: ⁠You can read the ⁠transcription on ⁠The Children's Book Review (coming soon)⁠⁠. Order a Copy: Unstuck on ⁠Amazon⁠ or ⁠Bookshop.org⁠. Discussion Topics: Barbara Dee Talks About: Unstuck For more information, visit https://barbaradeebooks.com/. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thechildrensbookreview/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thechildrensbookreview/support

In this engaging podcast episode, Emma Pearl delves into the influence of children's literature and environmentalism in her work while sharing her personal journey inspired by her great uncle Roald Dahl. Highlighting the importance of children's books in fostering imagination and empathy, Emma discusses her picture books Mending the Moon and Saving the Sun, which weave themes of intergenerational relationships and nature. She reveals personal connections behind her characters, emphasizing her deep love for the environment and the transformative power of storytelling. The conversation is a must-listen for both literature enthusiasts and advocates of environmental awareness. Transcription: ⁠You can read the transcription on ⁠The Children's Book Review⁠. Order a Copy: Saving the Sun on Amazon or Bookshop.org. Discussion Topics: Emma Pearl Talks About the: Mending the MoonSaving the Sun Emma Pearl was excited to continue Luna and Poppa’s adventures from Mending the Moon (Page Street Kids) and thought it only logical the pair would save the sun next. Emma has traveled to over fifty different countries, including many beautiful tropical islands like the one in this story. Her love of storytelling began at a young age, spurred on by her relationship with her great uncle, renowned children’s author Roald Dahl. She now lives in New Zealand with her family and their one-eyed cat, Penelope. For more information, visit https://www.emmapearlauthor.com/. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thechildrensbookreview/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thechildrensbookreview/support

In this engaging podcast episode, Emma Pearl delves into the influence of children's literature and environmentalism in her work while sharing her personal journey inspired by her great uncle Roald Dahl. Highlighting the importance of children's books in fostering imagination and empathy, Emma discusses her picture books Mending the Moon and Saving the Sun, which weave themes of intergenerational relationships and nature. She reveals personal connections behind her characters, emphasizing her deep love for the environment and the transformative power of storytelling. The conversation is a must-listen for both literature enthusiasts and advocates of environmental awareness. Transcription: ⁠You can read the transcription on ⁠The Children's Book Review⁠. Order a Copy: Saving the Sun on Amazon or Bookshop.org. Discussion Topics: Emma Pearl Talks About the: Mending the MoonSaving the Sun Emma Pearl was excited to continue Luna and Poppa’s adventures from Mending the Moon (Page Street Kids) and thought it only logical the pair would save the sun next. Emma has traveled to over fifty different countries, including many beautiful tropical islands like the one in this story. Her love of storytelling began at a young age, spurred on by her relationship with her great uncle, renowned children’s author Roald Dahl. She now lives in New Zealand with her family and their one-eyed cat, Penelope. For more information, visit https://www.emmapearlauthor.com/. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thechildrensbookreview/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thechildrensbookreview/support

Join us as we delve into the enchanting world of Magic Tree House with bestselling children's author Mary Pope Osborne and her husband, playwright Will Osborne. In this episode, we explore the journey of transforming the beloved book series into captivating stage musicals, igniting a passion for literacy and fostering growth in children. Transcription: ⁠You can read the transcription on ⁠The Children's Book Review (Coming Soon)⁠⁠. Resources: Visit the Magic Tree House: On Stage website at www.MTHOnStage.com, or find them on Facebook at @MagicTreeHouseOnStage or on Instagram at @mthonstage. Mary’s literacy program, Classroom Adventures, is a companion to the MTH theatrical productions that provides free downloadable resources for teachers to use in their classrooms as a complement to seeing an MTH show live. Discussion Topics: Mary Pope Osborne and Will Osborne Talk About: - From the genesis of the Magic Tree House series to its immense success, Mary shares insights into the inspiration behind the stories and how they evolved into a cultural phenomenon. - Discover how Mary and Will's decision to adapt the books into musicals, starting with "Christmas in Camelot," led to the creation of a rich library of theatrical productions. - Explore the magic behind the scenes as we uncover the collaborative efforts of the Magic Tree House team, including editors, artists, writers, and managers, who work seamlessly to bring these stories to life on stage. - Learn how theater and book reading intertwine, inspiring imagination and fostering connections with beloved characters. - Tune in to hear Mary's admiration for the musical adaptations, which retain the essence of the books' life lessons without being didactic. Delve into the symbiotic relationship between theater and literacy, as witnessing stories come alive on stage enhances children's love for reading and encourages personal growth. - As we wrap up, join us in expressing gratitude to Mary and Will for their time and dedication. And don't forget to visit the Magic Tree House website to embark on your own magical journey through literature and theater. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thechildrensbookreview/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thechildrensbookreview/support

Dive into topics of anticipation and family traditions with Jamie Lee Curtis as she discusses her latest picture book for kids, Just One More Sleep: Good Things Come to Those Who Wait ... and Wait ... and Wait. In this interview, Curtis shares the delightful inspiration behind the story, revealing the magic that happens when a chance encounter with a young neighbor sparks the creation of a charming tale. From the countdown to Christmas to the excitement of birthdays, Curtis explores the universal theme of waiting through the lens of childhood. The conversation unveils the collaborative process between Curtis and her illustrator, Laura Cornell, offering insights into the unique partnership that brings her stories to life. Discover the dual nature of Curtis's books, crafted to captivate both children and adults, as she shares the joy of reading together. The interview delves into the emotional depth of Curtis's work, addressing themes of loss, self-identity, and the complexities of growing up. With warmth and authenticity, Jamie Lee Curtis invites listeners into the world of her creations, leaving an enduring impact on readers of all ages. Transcription: ⁠You can read the transcription on ⁠The Children's Book Review⁠⁠. Order a Copy: Just One More Sleep: All Good Things Come to Those Who Wait . . . and Wait . . . and Wait on ⁠Amazon⁠ and ⁠Bookshop.org⁠. Resources: Jamie Lee Curtis is an author, actor, activist, sister, friend, wife, and mother. She is the New York Times bestselling author of numerous picture books, including Tell Me Again About the Night I Was Born, Today I Feel Silly, I'm Gonna Like Me, and My Brave Year of Firsts. You can follow her on Instagram @JamieLeeCurtis, Twitter @JamieLeeCurtis, and Facebook at facebook.com/JamieLeeCurtis. Discussion Topics: Jamie Lee Curtis Talks About: --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thechildrensbookreview/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thechildrensbookreview/support

Dive into topics of anticipation and family traditions with Jamie Lee Curtis as she discusses her latest picture book for kids, Just One More Sleep: Good Things Come to Those Who Wait ... and Wait ... and Wait. In this interview, Curtis shares the delightful inspiration behind the story, revealing the magic that happens when a chance encounter with a young neighbor sparks the creation of a charming tale. From the countdown to Christmas to the excitement of birthdays, Curtis explores the universal theme of waiting through the lens of childhood. The conversation unveils the collaborative process between Curtis and her illustrator, Laura Cornell, offering insights into the unique partnership that brings her stories to life. Discover the dual nature of Curtis's books, crafted to captivate both children and adults, as she shares the joy of reading together. The interview delves into the emotional depth of Curtis's work, addressing themes of loss, self-identity, and the complexities of growing up. With warmth and authenticity, Jamie Lee Curtis invites listeners into the world of her creations, leaving an enduring impact on readers of all ages. Transcription: ⁠You can read the transcription on The Children's Book Review. Order a Copy: Just One More Sleep: All Good Things Come to Those Who Wait … and Wait … and Wait on Amazon and ⁠Bookshop.org. Resources: Jamie Lee Curtis is an author, actor, activist, sister, friend, wife, and mother. She is the New York Times bestselling author of numerous picture books, including Tell Me Again About the Night I Was Born, Today I Feel Silly, I’m Gonna Like Me, and My Brave Year of Firsts. You can follow her on Instagram ⁠@JamieLeeCurtis⁠, Twitter ⁠@JamieLeeCurtis⁠, and Facebook at ⁠facebook.com/JamieLeeCurtis⁠. Discussion Topics: Jamie Lee Curtis Talks About: Just One More Sleep --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thechildrensbookreview/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thechildrensbookreview/support

Dive into the uproarious world of Jeff Kinney, the creative force behind the Diary of a Wimpy Kid series, in this upbeat podcast episode! Kinney spills the beans on how his bestselling idea sprouted from a simple journal meant to keep him on the work grind. With a staggering 275 million copies sold worldwide, the series has become a literary sensation, garnishing Kinney with a slew of well-deserved awards. Beyond the numbers, Kinney shares his aspirations for his books—shaping reading habits for kids and influencing the industry's humor landscape. Get ready to laugh, be inspired, and join the Wimpy Kid revolution in this delightful exploration of literary magic! Transcription: ⁠You can read the transcription on ⁠The Children's Book Review⁠⁠. (Coming Soon) Order a Copy: Diary of a Wimpy Kid: No Brainer on Amazon and Bookshop.org. Resources: Jeff Kinney is a #1 New York Times bestselling author of the Diary of a Wimpy Kid series and the Awesome Friendly Kid series. He is a six–time Nickelodeon Kids’ Choice Award winner for Favorite Book and has been named one of Time magazine’s 100 Most Influential People in the World. He spent his childhood in the Washington, DC, area and moved to New England, where he and his wife own a bookstore named An Unlikely Story. For more information, visit ⁠https://wimpykid.com/⁠. Discussion Topics: Jeff Kinney talks about: New York Times --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thechildrensbookreview/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thechildrensbookreview/support

Dive into the uproarious world of Jeff Kinney, the creative force behind the Diary of a Wimpy Kid series, in this upbeat podcast episode! Kinney spills the beans on how his bestselling idea sprouted from a simple journal meant to keep him on the work grind. With a staggering 275 million copies sold worldwide, the series has become a literary sensation, garnishing Kinney with a slew of well-deserved awards. Beyond the numbers, Kinney shares his aspirations for his books—shaping reading habits for kids and influencing the industry's humor landscape. Get ready to laugh, be inspired, and join the Wimpy Kid revolution in this delightful exploration of literary magic! Transcription: ⁠You can read the transcription on ⁠The Children's Book Review⁠⁠. Order a Copy: Diary of a Wimpy Kid: No Brainer on Amazon and Bookshop.org. Resources: Jeff Kinney is a #1 New York Times bestselling author of the Diary of a Wimpy Kid series and the Awesome Friendly Kid series. He is a six–time Nickelodeon Kids’ Choice Award winner for Favorite Book and has been named one of Time magazine’s 100 Most Influential People in the World. He spent his childhood in the Washington, DC, area and moved to New England, where he and his wife own a bookstore named An Unlikely Story. For more information, visit ⁠https://wimpykid.com/⁠. Discussion Topics: Jeff Kinney talks about: New York Times --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thechildrensbookreview/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thechildrensbookreview/support

This episode is presented in partnership with Richard Wagner, and we embark on a delightful journey behind the scenes of a heartwarming picture book, Needles, the Forgotten Christmas Tree. Richard, the creative mind who brought this enchanting story to life, unravels the process of crafting this magical narrative, exploring the themes of perseverance and discovering beauty in the most unexpected places. Richard Wagner grew up in Southern California. When he was fourteen years old, a business friend of his father’s had a small Christmas tree delivered as a thank-you. Their family already had a large tree decorated in the house. Not being able to find anyone who needed a tree, that small Christmas tree stood outside by itself for the remainder of the Christmas holiday. Needles, the Forgotten Christmas Tree is a tribute to that little tree and what might have been, but more importantly, to all the beauty, goodness, and hope that Christmas brings to us all. Mr. Wagner continues to reside in Southern California with his wife and two children. Transcription: ⁠You can read the transcription on ⁠The Children's Book Review⁠ (coming soon)⁠. Order a Copy: Needles, the Forgotten Christmas Tree on ⁠⁠⁠Amazon. Resources: For more information, visit https://needlesthechristmastree.com. Discussion Topics: Richard Wagner talks about: Ever wondered about the daily practices that fuel creativity? Richard Wagner shares part of his daily routine, and you won't believe the key to success – daily heart-to-hearts with the spouse! Get the scoop on this surprising secret. Get ready for a journey through the pages of a life-long love affair with books! From childhood favorites to adult literary adventures, discover how reading shaped Richard's world. Curious about the nitty-gritty of writing a picture book? Richard spills the beans on parts of the process – including collaborating with an illustrator. Uncover the enchanting origins of Needles, the Forgotten Christmas Tree! Richard shares the spark that ignited this festive tale. Take a deep dive into the evolution of the story. Richard unravels the threads of perseverance and unexpected beauty woven into the narrative, offering a behind-the-scenes look into the book's profound themes. What life lessons does Richard hope young readers will carry from Needles? Find out as he reflects on the inspiration behind the story and the impact it could have on impressionable minds. Stick around as Richard drops a hint about future literary adventures. Could there be more books in the pipeline? Music Credits: JahzzarAttribution-ShareAlike LicenseSerge QuadradoAttribution-ShareAlike 4.0 International License --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thechildrensbookreview/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thechildrensbookreview/support

This episode is presented in partnership with The Smart Aleck Press. Bianca is joined by the talented mystery writer Chris Wieland, the creative force behind the Kat Dylan Mysteries; including The Body on the Beach. Chris is known for crafting narratives that revolve around a strong girl protagonist, Kat Dylan. In this discussion, he delves into the intricacies of his storytelling process and how he constructs high-stakes scenarios in the fictional setting of Crabtree. Kat's emotional struggles, entwined with people she knows and cares about, add a profound layer to the storyline of The Body on the Beach. The murder of someone Kat's age prompts deep reflection on her identity and place in the world. Chris strives to create authentic, flawed characters for young readers, fostering relatability, with a theme in his work emerging — the vital use of one's mind and heart to triumph over evil, steering away from resorting to violence. Chris Wieland is an award-winning writer and filmmaker. He is also the father of two fierce children, including a tough, smart tween who helped him find the voice of his protagonist, Kat Dylan. He lives in Southern California with his family. Transcription: You can read the transcription on ⁠The Children's Book Review⁠ . Order a Copy: The Body on the Beach: A Kat Dylan Mystery on ⁠⁠Amazon⁠⁠. Resources: For more information, visit https://www.thesmartaleckpress.com/ The Lost Chapter 25 Discussion Topics: Chris Wieland talks about: Body on the Beach --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thechildrensbookreview/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thechildrensbookreview/support

Are you ready to be inspired? Listen to Kate DiCamillo's enlightening interview on the Growing Readers Podcast. She takes us on a journey into the magical world of The Puppets of Spelhorst and shares the power of storytelling. Her childhood memories of playing with puppets are a reminder of the beauty and simplicity that can be found in our everyday lives. Her emphasis on perseverance and dedication to doing the work is a testament to the importance of following our dreams. Let Kate's words encourage you to become the master of your own story and to focus on the beauty and magic in the world around you. Don't miss this chance to be inspired! Kate DiCamillo is one of America’s most beloved storytellers. She is a former National Ambassador for Young People’s Literature and a two-time Newbery Medalist. Born in Philadelphia, she grew up in Florida and now lives in Minneapolis. Transcription: You can read the transcription on ⁠The Children's Book Review⁠. Order a Copy: The Puppets of Spelhorst on ⁠Amazon⁠ or ⁠Bookshop.org⁠. Resources: For more information about Kate DiCamillo and her books, visit https://www.katedicamillo.com/. Discussion Topics: Kate DiCamillo talks about: The Puppets of Spelhorst --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thechildrensbookreview/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thechildrensbookreview/support

In this episode of The Growing Reader's Podcast, Abby Hanlon talks about how she infuses authentic challenges into her Dory Fantasmagory chapter books, giving little ones a taste of real life through the pages of her books. Abby Hanlon has taught creative writing and first grade in the New York City public school system. Inspired by her students' storytelling and drawings, Abby began to write her own stories for children, and taught herself to draw after not having drawn since childhood. She lives with her husband and two children in Brooklyn. Transcription: You can read the transcription on ⁠The Children's Book Review⁠. Order a Copy: Dory Fantasmagory: Can't Live Without You on Amazon or Bookshop.org. Resources: For more information about Abby Hanlon and her books, visit http://www.abbyhanlon.com/. Discussion Topics: Abby Hanlon talks about: --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thechildrensbookreview/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thechildrensbookreview/support

Matthew Cordell discusses the Cornbread and Poppy series. Cordell draws from his personal experiences to create playful and adventurous stories that kids will love. With Cornbread and Poppy, he focuses on building a cozy and entertaining world for beginning readers to explore. We hope you enjoy listening to this interview about his creative process! Matthew Cordell is the author and illustrator of many celebrated picture books, including Hello, Neighbor!: The Kind and Caring World of Mister Rogers, and Wolf in the Snow, recipient of the 2018 Caldecott Medal. As an illustrator he has collaborated with many more authors including Gail Carson Levine, Philip C. Stead, and Rebecca Kai Dotlich. Matthew lives with his wife, author Julie Halpern, and their two children in suburban Chicago. Transcription: You can read the transcription on ⁠The Children's Book Review⁠. Order a Copy: Poppy and Cornbread At the Museum on Amazon or Bookshop.org Resources: For more information about Matthew Cordell and his books, visit https://www.matthewcordell.com/. Discussion Topics: Matthew Cordell talks about: --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thechildrensbookreview/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thechildrensbookreview/support

Award-winning author Ellen Potter chats about her wonderful chapter book, Squirlish: The Girl in the Tree. Get ready to laugh out loud as the story unfolds on how a girl raised by squirrels in Central Park attempts to make new human friends. Inspired by a friend raising a baby squirrel and her own life experiences, Ellen hopes readers will appreciate the value of finding one's own strengths no matter the community they find themselves in. So sit back, relax, and enjoy this fun-filled episode. Ellen Potter is the author of more than twenty award-winning novels for children and young adults, including Olivia Kidney, Slob, the Big Foot and Little Foot series, the Piper Green and The Fairy Tree series, The Humming Room, Pish Posh, and The Kneebone Boy. Several of her books have been chosen by the New York Public Library for their Best 100 Books for Children list and have appeared on numerous state reading lists. Her nonfiction writing book, Spilling Ink, A Young Writer’s Handbook, coauthored with Anne Mazer, was also chosen by the New York Public Library as a Best 100 Books for Children. Ellen lives in upstate New York with her family. Transcription: You can read the transcription on ⁠The Children's Book Review. Order a Copy: Squirlish: The Girl in the Tree on Amazon⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Bookshop.org⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Hither and Nigh on Amazon⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Bookshop.org⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. The Golden Imaginarium on ⁠Amazon⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Bookshop.org⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Resources: For more information about Ellen and her books, visit EllenPotter.com. Discussion Topics: Ellen Potter talks about: Squirlish --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thechildrensbookreview/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thechildrensbookreview/support