Shows
Writers With WrinklesBreaking Barriers in Publishing: Michele McAvoy on Small Press Success & Writing RealitiesSend us a textPLEASE NOTE: this episode was orignally meant to drop on March 31st but we moved it up so listeners can take advantage of The Little Press's upcoming pitch party. Listen to the full episode for details.Episode SummaryIn this episode, Beth and Lisa chat with Michele McAvoy, award-winning children’s book author, publisher, and founder of The Little Press. Michele shares her journey from self-published author to small press publisher, offering insight into the publishing industry, small press advantages, and advice for aspiring authors navigating the co...2025-03-1734 min
VMTV Rugby PodSix Nations launch | Gonzalo Quesada & Michele LamaroStuart McAvoy sits down with Italy head coach Gonzalo Quesada and his captain Michele Lamaro at the Guinness Men's Six Nations launch in Rome! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2025-01-2212 min
Behind the Mic with AudioFile MagazineInterview with Ray Porter: 2021 Best AudiobooksNarrator Ray Porter joins AudioFile’s Michele Cobb to tell listeners about his experience narrating PROJECT HAIL MARY, Andy Weir’s newest sci-fi bestseller. PROJECT HAIL MARY is one of AudioFile’s 2021 Best Science Fiction & Fantasy Audiobooks, and it’s a thrilling interstellar adventure. Ray gives Michele an inside glimpse into preparing the many voices deployed in this space opera and tells her what has stayed with him about bringing it to life. Read the full review of the audiobook at audiofilemagazine.com. Published by Audible, Inc. Curious listeners can take a peek into Ray's recording studio in his narrator video on...2021-12-0609 min
Kindie Rock StarsEp 6 - ANNIE LYNN - Cookie and Milk / Space CreatorAnnie Lynn spotlights SEL (Social Emotional Learning) songs inspired by books written by Michele McAvoy and Jolene Gutierrez. Book and Song Details below:COOKIE and MILKAuthor: Michele McAvoy Also: Podcast host of My Messy MuseSONG: "COOKIE AND MILK". Based on the Book "Cookie and Milk - A Scientifically Stunt-tastic Sisterhood", illustrated by Jessica GibsonLINK TO SONG: http://www.michelemcavoy.com/schoolkit SPACE CREATORAuthor: Jolene GutiérrezBook: "Mac and Cheese and the Personal Space Invader" IIlustrated by Heather Bel...2021-08-1721 min
My Messy MuseEpisode 53- Poetry for Young ReadersIn this Episode we discuss poetry for young readers, from picture books to middle-grade, with traditionally published authors, Chris Baron, Michelle Schaub, and Angela Shanté. Be sure to join the My Messy Muse community on Facebook at www.facebook.com/groups/mymessymuse If you are interested in a picture a school visit or other speaking opportunity with host Michele McAvoy, please visit her website at www.michelemcavoy.com/workwithme Follow host Michele McAvoyTwitter: @michele_mcavoyInstagram: @michelemcavoy2021-07-2738 min
The Italian American PodcastIAP 191: Her Superhero Dad: How An Italian American Daughter's Love Inspired a Literary CareerWhen we think about the Italian American experience, our mind floods with images of parents and grandparents, traditions passed on through time with the family, and a multi-generational story that plays out over a lifetime of shared memories. But, how do we best pass on the story of a loved one who we have lost? In this week’s episode, we meet Michele Cerullo McAvoy, whose quest to answer that exact question led her into a new career as an award-winning children’s book author. As Father’s Day approaches, we sit down with this New Je...2021-06-1550 minMy Messy MuseEpisode 52- Kidlit BITS #4- Teachers Pay TeachersKidlit BITs- Bite Sized Informational Takeaways! On this Episode learn about how to get your FREE book resources into the hands of teachers. If you are not already a member, be sure to join the My Messy Muse community on Facebook to continue the conversation and meet like minded individuals who also love #kidlit. www.facebook.com/groups/mymessymuse Follow the creator and host, Michele McAvoy, and her journey as an author, educator, and children's book publisher. Michele's titles include BUCKINGHAM GETS A NEW SHELL (2021); COOKIE & MILK (2019); THE GORILLA PICKED ME! (2018), and MY S...2021-04-2252 minMy Messy MuseEpisode 51- 2020 Year in Review, Picture Books!Celebrate Picture Books! 2020 was a difficult year for everyone yet beautiful books published. In this Episode, we celebrate new picture books that released in 2020. We celebrate their authors, illustrators, stories, and journeys. If you are not already a member, be sure to join the My Messy Muse community on Facebook to continue the conversation and meet like minded individuals who also love #kidlit. www.facebook.com/groups/mymessymuse Follow the creator and host, Michele McAvoy, and her journey as an author, educator, and children's book publisher. Michele's titles include BUCKINGHAM GETS A NEW SH...2021-04-2252 minMy Messy MuseEpisode 50- Self Publishing: Should I or Shouldn't I?You desperately want to be published. You have your story, you think it's perfect, do you try the traditional route or do you self-publish? In this My Messy Muse kidlit podcast Episode 50, Michele McAvoy interviews April Cox, a successful self-published kidlit author who works with other kidlit writers to help them see their dream of publication, with her company Self Publishing Made Simple. Be sure to join the My Messy Muse community on Facebook at www.facebook.com/groups/mymessymuse to connect with others who love children's literature. Host and creator, Michele McAvoy, i...2020-12-2732 minMy Messy MuseEpisode 49- Writing Holiday BooksHave a winter holiday idea but think that market is too crowded? Have a holiday story manuscript but don't know when the best time to shop it is? Have a new holiday books, but don't know how to get started marketing during such a crazy time. In this Episode 49 of the My Messy Muse #kidlit podcast Michele McAvoy will help answer many of your holiday book questions. She sits down for a Coffee & Craft Roundtable Chat with kidlit authors Patricia Toht, Karen Rostoker-Gruber, and Nancy Churnin to discuss all things holiday books. Advice from the e...2020-12-2634 minBehind the Mic with AudioFile MagazineInterview with Robin Miles: 2020 Best AudiobooksNarrator Robin Miles joins AudioFile’s Michele Cobb to talk about THE CITY WE BECAME, N.K. Jemisin’s remarkable and fantastical celebration of New York City’s spirit. THE CITY WE BECAME is one of AudioFile’s Best Sci-fi, Fantasy & Horror audiobooks of the year, and it’s an entirely engaging listening experience. Robin tells Michele about what has stayed with her from narrating this audiobook and the special preparation she took to make the many New York voices come to life. Published by Hachette Audio.Best Science Fiction, Fantasy & Horror Audiobooks:THE CITY WE BECAME by N.K. Jemisin, r...2020-12-1113 minMy Messy Muse#TeacherFeature: Flip Grid Part II: Connecting Authors + StudentsIn this #TeacherFeature Part II of Flipgrid for authors with Educator Collaborator & Flipgrid ambassador, Nicole Mancini (aka "Miss Nikki") we dive a little bit deeper into how to use the platform to connect with students. Flipgrid is a great way to market your book and get in front of the kids that love them! If you enjoy this Episode be sure to listen to Episode 47 (part 1) of FlipGrid. Also, please leave a comment below. We continue these kidlit conversations online in the My Messy Muse Facebook groups. More resources there as well. Be sure to jo...2020-12-0744 min
Food Bullying PodcastWhy isn't food raised the way it used to be?Social media memes and marketing messages often ring nostalgic for how things used to be on the farm. But were the “good old days” really better? In this episode we chat with fruit and vegetable expert Gene McAvoy about how farming used to work (and how it still works in some parts of the world) and how research has made farming better. Gene McAvoy is currently the Associate Director for Stakeholder Relations at the University of Florida Southwest Florida Research and Education Center and previously served with UF IFAS Extension as regional specialized vegetable extension agent in SW Flo...2020-08-3125 minMy Messy MuseEpisode 47- #TeacherFeature- FlipGrid 101 For Authors & EducatorsFlipgrid 101 for Authors & Educators. Have you heard of Flipgrid? Authors, ever wonder how you could use Flipgrid to connect with your young audience? Educators, ever wonder how to use Flipgrid to connect your students with authors and other creatives? This is your Episode! FlipGrid 101 will give you the basics of Flipgrid. You will learn how to sign up, create grids and create topics. You will learn why Flipgrid is so powerful for connecting students with authors and why it's amazing for virtual learning. Sign up for Flipgrid: info.flipgrid.com Follow & Co...2020-08-2947 minMy Messy MuseEpisode 46- NerdCamp for Kidlit ExplainedEver heard of Nerdcamp? What is a Nerdcamp? What's all the rave? How can you present at a Nerdcamp? In this My Messy Muse Episode, I tell you what NerdCamps are, how to register, how to get yourself on a panel, and what to expect the day of. This Episode will take the mystery out of NerdCamps and allow you to explore without anxiety. Don't miss out on other kidlit nuggets to help you on your journey! Be sure to join the My Messy Muse community on Facebook at www.facebook.com/groups/mym...2020-07-2040 minMy Messy Muse#TeacherFeature- Distance Learning During the Pandemic RoundtableA roundtable discussion about "crisis" learning during Covid-19 with special guests Cornelius Minor (literacy equity expert, educator, & author), Kelly Gallagher (science teacher), and Elaine Mendez (vice-principal) with Nicole Mancini (5th grade ELA teacher and My Messy Muse educator collaborator) at the helm. This is a "do not miss" episode for everyone to understand the perspective of educators and administrators during this trying time. Cornelius Minor - @MisterMinor Author of "We Got This"- with Heinemann Publisher Kelly Gallagher - @GallagherLHS Elaine Mendez - @ElemCoach Follow Educator Collaborator Nicole Mancini on Twitter @MissNikkiIn5th Be sure to join the My Messy...2020-04-3049 minMy Messy MuseEpisode 44- Pinterest 101 for Creatives with Debbie GonzalesPinterest 101 for Creatives. Did you know that Pinterest is a fantastic tool to grow your author platform and sell books! Learn how to use Pinterest to your advantage as an author. It's not just for finding cool recipes! Part of a series on Building your Author Platform. In this Episode Pinterest expert and children's book author Debbie Gonzales walks us through how to develop our Pinterest accounts for business use and author promotion. Debbie Gonzales is a career educator, curriculum consultant, former school administrator and adjunct professor, a podcaster (The Debcast), and past SCBWI RA fo...2020-04-0852 minMy Messy MuseEpisode 43- Kidlit BITS #3- Keeping Momentum During QuarantineFriends, what a messy time we are living in right now. The Corona outbreak may have disrupted your author/illustrator momentum, but we can take some of that momentum back. What should you be doing right now during quarantine for your author/illustrator business? This Episode will give you some quick things to consider to keep things moving for your career. Also, please join us in the My Messy Muse FB group to have contact and connection during this difficult time. www.facebook.com/groups/mymessymuse Follow host Michele McAvoy on Twitter @michele_mca...2020-03-2213 minMy Messy MuseEpisode 42- #TeacherFeature Navigating Distance Learning with Miss Nikki & Special GuestsWhat a crazy and scary time it is! Right now schools are closed across the country and we try to flatten the curve of the spread of Covid-19. Educators are thrown a curveball and forced to teach their students virtually. Listen here for insights and support on how to navigate distance learning through this difficult time with My Messy Muse Educator Collaborator Nicole Mancini and special guests Ken Kunz and Shalonda Archibald. Ken Kunz Twitter @DrKennethKunz https://www.fortheloveofliteracy.net/ https://www.njliteracy.org/ Shalonda Archibald @born_to_educate https://www.njliteracy.org/ You can...2020-03-2032 minMy Messy MuseEpisode 41- #TeacherFeature- A Frank Perspective on Read Across America WeekMy Messy Muse Educator Collaborator, Nicole Mancini, 5th-grade ELA teacher with 17+ years experience, provides her honest opinion about Read Across America Week and how we can change it for the better! Dr. Seuss Books Can Be Racist, But Students Keep Reading Them Is 'The Cat in the Hat' Racist? The Cat is Out of the Bag: Orientalism, Anti-Blackness, and White Supremacy in Dr. Seuss's Children's Books Read Across America You can follow Nicole on Twitter: @MissNikkiIn5th Please join Nicole and other kidlit fans in the free My Messy Muse facebook group www.facebook.com/groups/mymessymuse 2020-02-2619 minMy Messy MuseEpisode 40- Kidlit BITS #2 (Swag)Kidlit BITS- bite sized informational takeaways. Little things Michele learns long away. Paying it forward to her Kidlit community. Learn more about host Michele McAvoy at www.michelemcavoy.com Follow Michele on Twitter @michele_mcavoy and Instagram @michelemcavoy 2020-02-2012 minMy Messy MuseEpisode 39- President's Day Interview with Author Eileen MeyerEileen Meyer writes picture books and poetry. Her works include The Superlative A. Lincoln: Poems About Our 16th President (Charlesbridge) – a 2020 ILLINOIS READS selection for grades 3-5; Sweet Dreams, Wild Animals, and other titles. Eileen loves visiting schools and working with K-8 students. She enjoys sharing programs with educators, recently presenting at the 2019 IRC, AISLE, and NCTE conferences. Eileen is a long-time member of SCBWI. For information about school programs, please visit www.EileenMeyerBooks.com and contact Eileen. Be sure to join the My Messy Muse community on Facebook at www.facebook.com/groups/mymessymuse If you ar...2020-02-1735 minMy Messy MuseEpisode 38- #Classroom Speed-dating with Author Alastair HeimOur most popular segment #Classroom Speeddating is back with Author Alastair Heim. Listen in as we put Alastair in the hot seat to answer lots and lots of questions from elementary school students. You will learn everything there is to know about good ol' Alastair. lol! Alastair Heim is the author of the picture books LOVE YOU TOO, NO TOOTING AT TEA, THE GREAT PUPPY INVASION which won the 2019 Oklahoma Redbud Read-Aloud Award, HELLO, DOOR which was chosen as one of The New York Public Library’s Best Books of 2018 and listed on The 2019 Best Books for Fam...2020-02-0448 minMy Messy MuseEpisode 37- It's a #BookClub Wrap!- Interview with Skylark & Wallcreeper Author, Anne O'Brien CarelliWe wrap up our very first My Messy Muse #Bookclub read of- SKYLARK & WALLCREEPER! Listen to this interview with MG author Anne O'Brien Carelli as she answers all of our burning questions. Anne O'Brien Carelli is the author of adult nonfiction, the Middle- Grade book Skylark and Wallcreeper, and the picture book Amina's New Friends. She has always been fascinated by the French Resistance, and studied history at Case Western Reserve University. For her PhD, Anne researched psychology of the gifted. Originally from Ann Arbor, Michigan, Anne lives in the Hudson River Valley in upstate New York and...2020-01-2141 minMy Messy MuseEpisode 36- Interview with Gretchen Brandenburg McLellan (picture book)Gretchen Brandenburg McLellan is a former elementary reading specialist who now devotes herself to writing for children and visiting schools. She is the author of Mrs. McBee Leaves Room 3, Grace Zong ill. (Peachtree), I’m Done! Catherine Lazar Odell ill. (Holiday House) and Button and Bundle, Gillian Flint ill. (Knopf). When Your Daddy’s a Soldier, E.B. Lewis ill. (Beach Lane) and No Party Poopers!, Lucy Semple ill. (Little Bee) will appear in 2020. She writes chapter books and middle-grade fiction as well. Gretchen grew up as a global nomad, daughter of a career Army officer, and lived...2020-01-0632 minMy Messy MuseEpisode 35- Kidlit BITS #1 ("Bite Sized Informational Takeaways")My Messy Muse Kidlit BITS, Bite-sized Information Takeaways, tells you the small things we learn along the way. Why not share with friends? Small things can have a big impact. Learn more about host, Michele McAvoy, at www.michelemcavoy.com If you are interested in a school visit with host Michele McAvoy, please visit her website at www.michelemcavoy.com/workwithme Follow host Michele McAvoyTwitter: @michele_mcavoyInstagram: @michelemcavoy "Bringing Color to a Messy World" 2019-12-2305 minMy Messy Muse#TeacherFeature with Miss Nikki (host)- NCTE Discussion with Sarah Cannon (author) and Julie GuthrieListen in to our first Teacher Feature with My Messy Muse Educator Collaborator, Nicole Mancini - aka Miss Nikki as she leads a discussion with middle-grade author Sarah Cannon and 2018 NJ Teacher of the Year Julie Guthrie. What happens at NCTE. How can educators and authors collaborate? Be sure to join the My Messy Muse community on Facebook at www.facebook.com/groups/mymessymuse If you are interested in a school visit with host Michele McAvoy, please visit her website at www.michelemcavoy.com/workwithme Follow host Michele McAvoyTwitter: @m...2019-12-2144 minMy Messy MuseInterview with Jess Redman Middle Grade AuthorInterview with Middle-Grade author Jess Redman. Her debut, The Miraculous, published with FSG/Macmillan on July 30, 2019 and received a starred review from Kirkus. Her second middle-grade novel, QUINTESSENCE, will be out in May, 2020. Jess is from Florida. Aside from being an author, she is also therapist, adjunct professor of psychology and mom of young children, and an old cat named Soul Pie. Find out more about Jess at www.jessredman.com and follow her on Twitter @Jess_Red or Instagram @Jess_Red Be sure to join the My Messy Muse community on Facebook a...2019-11-1829 minMy Messy MuseEpisode 32- Interview with Patricia Toht (picture book author)Patricia Toht is a children's book author from Chicago, Illinois. She is the author of four picture books – ALL ABOARD THE LONDON BUS (illustrated by Sam Usher), DRESS LIKE A GIRL (illustrated by Lorian Tu), and PICK A PINE TREE and PICK A PUMPKIN (illustrated by Jarvis) which both received starred reviews. She has two additional forthcoming titles. You can find out more about Patricia, her titles and her school visits at www.patriciatoht.com You can follow her on Twitter @PatriciaToht To join the My Messy Muse community and chat and learn with other...2019-10-3133 min
The Author Inside YouThe Kid Lit CommunityWhere do you begin when you have an idea for kid lit book? Michele McAvoy is very knowledgeable about children's literature and she shares her advice on this episode of The Author Inside You podcast. Everything from finding your audience, to deciding between traditional or self-publishing your kid lit book is covered in this informative episode. MicheleMcAvoy.com twitter.com/michele_mcavoy instagram.com/michelemcavoy facebook.com/michelemcavoyauthor My Messy Muse podcast Scribophile.com 2019-10-3021 minMy Messy MuseMy Messy Muse- Episode 31- #TeacherFeature with Educator Nicole ManciniThis #TeacherFeature with Nicole Mancini (a.k.a.- Miss Nikki), My Messy Muse's official Educator Collaborator, discusses book clubs in the classroom! What is a book club? How to organize a book club? How to get the kids excited to do book clubs? Lots of great tips in this #TeacherFeature! Book clubs are another great way to build relationships between authors and educators. Miss Nikki teaches fifth grade English Language Arts at Bedminster Township School District. She graduated from Washington College in 2002 as a triple major in English, education, and gender studies. She earned a Masters o...2019-10-1130 min
Language During MealtimeInterview with Michele McAvoy, author of Cookie & MilkToday I will be interviewing Michele McAvoy. Michele McAvoy is an inspirational speaker & award-winning children’s book author from New Jersey. She loves bringing joy to children through her own stories. Michele’s books are uplifting and colorful and are meant to help children navigate through the natural bumps and curves of life. She has written three children’s books which include My Superhero Grandpa and The Gorilla Picked me.
Her next picture book, Cookie & Milk with Cardinal Rule Press, releases October 1. Cookie & Milk was selected as a Top Shelf Title with IPG.
Check...2019-09-2430 min
My Messy MuseEpisode 30- Interview with AnnieBird Music- KidLit Music Artist Annie Lynn is a songwriter from Pennsylvania. She is the President and Chief Composer at AnnieBirdd Music, LLC. She began writing songs when she was 14 while acting in Shakespeare’s “A Midsummer’s Night Dream.” At 14 she wrote a nature song entitled “Listen,” that was shown on CBS. Today, Annie writes songs for children including her multi-award-winning song- "No Time for Hate," “That’s All There Is,” "Listen - a nature song;" "STOP THAT! - A Bullying Prevention Song;" and "New School." She also writes songs for children's books including a fabulous song for author Patrick Adams called "Ama...2019-09-2231 min
My Messy MuseMy Messy Muse Episode 29- Writing for Children From TragedyOn the Anniversary of 9/11 we recognize that tragedy can and does strike, and that bad things happen to good people- good people in our kidlit community. This episode reflects on my own personal tragedy which propelled me to write, to eventually write through the sadness and to eventually write colorful, joyful books for children. On My Messy Muse we talk about writing through the messiness of life. Some folks have daily messy, like juggling kids, work and activities. And, some folks have heavier messy. Whatever your messiness may be, know that you are not alone. Know...2019-09-1117 min
My Messy MuseEpisode 28- Interview with Jodi McKayJodi McKay lives in Grosse Pointe Farms, Michigan with her husband, son, and a couple of furry friends. She has two books published by Albert Whitman & Co., WHERE ARE THE WORDS? (2016) and, PENCIL’S PERFECT PICTURE (2019). Jodi is the PAL coordinator and soon to be co-regional advisor for SCBWI-MI. She is represented by Linda Epstein of Emerald City Literary Agency. Find out more about Jodi at www.jodimckaybooks.com Follow her on Twitter @jlmckay1 or Instagram @jodimckay1 Be sure to join the My Messy Muse community on Facebook at www.facebook.com/groups/mym...2019-07-2328 min
My Messy MuseEpisode 27- Interview with Julie Gonzalez Picture Book AuthorJulie Gonzalez is a children's book author living in the Pocono Mountains, Pennsylvania. In a past life, she was a 3rd-grade teacher in New Jersey. Her debut How Could a Bear Sleep Here? with Holiday House released 2018. You can find out more about Julie at www.juliegonzalez.com You can follow Julie on Twitter at @JulieGz123 Be sure to join the My Messy Muse community on Facebook at www.facebook.com/groups/mymessymuse If you are interested in a school visit with host Michele McAvoy, pleasevisit her website at www.michelemcavoy.com...2019-07-1638 min
My Messy MuseInterview with Graphic Novelist & Cartoonist Jarod Rosello (Middle Grade)JAROD ROSELLÓ is a Cuban American cartoonist, writer, and teacher originally from Miami, Florida. He holds an MFA in creative writing and a Ph.D. in curriculum and instruction from Penn State University. He is the author and artist of The Well-Dressed Bear Will (Never) be Found, the middle-grade graphic novel Red Panda & Moon Bear, with Top Shelf Comix and the forthcoming, Those Bears also with Top Shelf Comix. He teaches in the creative writing program at the University of South Florida in Tampa. You can follow Jarod on Twitter @jarodrosello Be sure to join the...2019-06-1827 min
My Messy MuseMy Messy Muse-Episode 25- Interview with Holly Niner (picture book author)Holly Niner is children's picture book author with four published titles. Her books include No More Noisy Nights and The Day I Ran Away both with Flashlight Press and both received a Gold Mom’s Choice award and were nominated for Mississippi Magnolia Children’s Choice award 2019. No More Noisy Nights was a Scholastic Book Club selection and featured on Storyline Online. Mr. Worry: A Story about OCD (Albert Whitman) received the 2005 IBBY Outstanding Books for Young People with Disabilities Award, and I Can’t Stop: A Story about Tourette Syndrome (Albert Whitman) received a 2006 Oppenhe...2019-06-0430 min
My Messy MuseMy Messy Muse-Episode 24-Interview with Wendy Swore (Middle Grade Author)Wendy Swore is a middle-grade author with her debut novel released March 2019, A MONSTER LIKE ME, published with Shadow Mountain. A MONSTER LIKE ME is a story about self-acceptance and bullying and we celebrate this story and Wendy's personal story on My Messy Muse in honor of Children's Mental Health Awareness Month. Wendy S Swore lives on a farm with a corn maze and pumpkin patch that is home to her five kids, two dogs, two geese, seven peacocks, eleven ducks, nineteen cats, and two hundred thirty-seven chickens. She farms in the summers, writes in the winters, a...2019-05-2125 min
My Messy MusePersonal Branding with Kidlit Specialist Oanh JordanWhat are the biggest mistakes we make in kidlit marketing? Oanh Jordan, a brand strategist and the founder of Tiny Triumph Co., a literary marketing consulting firm in Portland, Oregon, provides her insight into kidlit marketing & personal branding. Oanh spent over 10 years as a Marketing & Sales Director for a prestigious engineering firm before deciding to spend time at home with her littles. Itching to get back to her profession, Oanh turned her sights to the kidlit world. Oanh now focuses her marketing & branding expertise on kidlit, teaching children's lit authors and illustrators how to stand ou...2019-05-1424 min
My Messy MuseMy Messy Muse- Episode 22- Interview with Andria Rosenbaum (Picture Book Author)In honor of Holocaust Remembrance Day, an interview with Picture Book Author Andria Warmflash Rosenbaum. Andria has 6 published picture books, her most recent book HAND IN HAND, is an early introduction for children to the Holocaust. Andria has been a member of SCBWI for more years than she can remember. When Andria's not writing, she's walking her dog, baking ideas, photographing flowers, or having a dance party with her grandchildren. She hunts for picture book ideas from her home in New Jersey. You can follow her on Twitter @andriawrose You can learn more ab...2019-05-0626 min
My Messy MuseEpisode 21- KINDI Interview with Dan Saks Creator of Noodle Loaf Children's Top-Rated PodcastInterview with Dan Saks creator and host of the top-rated interactive music podcast for kids, Noodle Loaf! Dan is a father, a musician and a music educator trained in the Orff-Shulwerk approach to music education. He records his podcast from his home in Switzerland. Noodle Loaf invites the family to join together for some creative fun. The show is geared for kids 3-9 years old but kids of all ages get into it (including grown-up kids! lol!) Listen to hear how Dan finds inspiration to create his weekly podcast. How he went from in-classroom educator in...2019-04-2923 min
My Messy MuseMy Messy Muse- Episode 20- #LibrarianLessons with Ilana Bachrach-In celebration of Autism Awareness Month, Ilana Bachrach the media specialist with Spectrum360, a school for children and adolescents across the full spectrum of autism and with behavioral and related disabilities, opens our minds to offering author school visits for children with special needs. In this Episode, you will hear pointers on structuring your visits including questions to ask your school contact about your presentation. You can find out more about Spectrum360 at www.spectrum360.org If you are a media specialist you may also enjoy other #LibrarianLessons Episodes, including Episode 7 with Media...2019-04-1525 min
My Messy MuseEpisode 19- Interview with Sally J. Pla (author)Sally J. Pla is the award-winning author of the acclaimed middle-grade novels THE SOMEDAY BIRDS and STANLEY WILL PROBABLY BE FINE, and the picture book, BENJI, THE BAD DAY, & ME. Her books are Junior Library Guild Selections with starred reviews, and they have appeared on many awards lists and “best books” roundups. The Someday Birds received the 2018 Dolly Gray Award, which recognizes the portrayal of disability in children's literature. Sally has appeared on television and radio as an author and autism advocate. She believes in kindness, respect, and the beauty of different brains—We are all stars shining with...2019-04-0827 min
Dream Gardens: Talking Up the Children's Books We LoveAre You There God? It’s Me, Margaret by Judy Blume: an interview with author Michele McAvoy
Podcast #050
For my fiftieth Dream Gardens kid lit podcast, I interviewed author Michele McAvoy about her favorite children’s book, the classic novel Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret, written by Judy Blume.
Originally published in 1970, Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret tells the story of eleven year old Margaret Simon, whose family has just moved from New York City to the suburbs of New Jersey. Margret must now navigate through the treacherous waters of finding new friends and dealing with puberty, all the while trying to figure out whether she sh...2019-04-0128 min
My Messy MuseEpisode 18- Interview with Diana Murray, Children's Book AuthorDiana Murray is a children's book author of 10+ titles including, One Snowy Day (SourceBooks); City Shapes (Little Brown); Grimelda the Witch series (Harper Collins); Summer Color (Little Brown); Pizza Pig (Random House); Ned the Knitting Pirate (Roaring Brook/Macmillan); Groggle's Monster Valentine (Sky Pony) and her upcoming Unicorn Day with Sourcebooks. She also has 5 more books coming in 2020- Double the Dinosaurs (Step-into-Reading/Random House, 2020); Goodnight, Veggies Illustrated by Zach OHora (HMH, Spring 2020); Five Fuzzy Chicks (Imprint/Macmillan, 2020); Wild About Dads (Imprint/Macmillan, 2020); Sleep, Little Dozer (Random House, 2020) Diana tells us about how she when from a li...2019-04-0125 min
My Messy MuseEpisode 17- Interview with Middle-Grade Author Jarrett LernerJarrett Lerner is the middle-grade author of EngiNerds and its sequel, Revenge of the EngiNerds, as well as the forthcoming Geeger the Robot series (all published by Simon & Schuster/Aladdin). He cofounded and helps run the MG Book Village, an online hub for all things Middle Grade, and is the co-organizer of the #KidsNeedBooks and #KidsNeedMentors programs. Jarrett can be found at jarrettlerner.com, on Twitter at @Jarrett_Lerner, and on Instragram at @jarrettlerner. He lives in Medford, Massachusetts, with his wife, his daughter, and a cat. Be sure to join the My...2019-03-2537 min
My Messy MuseEpisode 16- #LibrarianLessons with Media Specialist Bibiana PradaBibiana Prada, teacher, and media specialist for 20+ years and co-founder of EdCamp Urban and Ed Camp After Hours, gives advice on how to find grant money to stack your stacks! No longer be intimidated about asking for money. Ask away and fill your library with beautiful books! Follow Bibiana Prada on Twitter @bookgirl614 Bibiana Prada, teacher, and media specialist for 20+ years and co-founder of EdCamp Urban and Ed Camp After Hours, gives advice on how to find grant money to stack your stacks! No longer be intimidated about asking for money. Ask...2019-03-1821 min
My Messy MuseEpisode 15- Interview with Laurie Wallmark Nonfiction Picture Book AuthorLaurie Wallmark is children's picture book author with three published non-fiction titles: Ada Byron Lovelace and the Thinking Machine (Creston Books, 2015)- Starred Reviews from Kirkus, Publisher's Weekly, Booklist, School Library Journal; Grace Hopper Queen of Computer Code (Sterling, 2017)- Kirkus Starred Review Parents' Choice Gold Medal Bank Street Best Ch. Books; and Hedy Lamarr’s Double Life (Sterling, 2019) (released February 5th!) Laurie has an MFA in Writing for Children and Young Adults from Vermont College of Fine Arts as well as degrees in biochemistry and information systems. When she is not writing she teaches courses on wri...2019-03-0829 minDream Gardens: Talking Up the Children's Books We LoveWatership Down by Richard Adams: an interview with author Jennifer Lynn Alvarez
Podcast #049
For my forty-ninth Dream Gardens kid lit podcast, I interviewed author Jennifer Lynn Alvarez about her favorite children’s book, the classic novel Watership Down by Richard Adams.
Originally published in 1972 in the UK, the novel tells the story of group of rabbits trying to find a new home. When one of the rabbits, Fiver, has a vision of their warren being destroyed, his brother Hazel convinces several of the rabbits to join the two of them on a perilous journey to find a safer place to live. After several close calls, they fi...2019-03-0131 min
My Messy MuseEpisode 14- Classroom #speeddating with Picture Book Author Josh FunkMy Messy Muse peppers picture book author Josh Funk with questions submitted by Second Grade students in a "speeddating environment," timer and all! How will Josh answer under such extreme pressure? lol! Listen in! www.joshfunkbooks.com 2019-03-0136 min
My Messy MuseEpisode 13- To Conference or Not to Conference? That is the Question.To Conference or Not to Conference? That is the Question. In this Episode, Michele McAvoy will discuss the conferences she plans to attend. She will provide suggestions and advice on #kidlit conferences, both traditional, online and free! Material discussed in this Episode. Traditional Conferences: www.scbwi.org https://www.scbwi.org/regional-chapters-new/ https://kidlitconprovidence2019.com http://www.kidlit411.com/2013/12/kidlit411-conferences-workshops.html https://www.highlightsfoundation.org https://www.bookpassage.com/childrens-book-writers-illustrators-conference https://www.stonybrook.edu/southampton/mfa/clc/index.h...2019-02-2527 min
My Messy MuseMy Messy Muse- Episode 12- Interview with Lakita Wilson SCBWI On the Verge Emerging Voices AwardLakita Wilson is the recipient of a 2017 SCBWI "On the Verge Emerging Voices Award" for her middle-grade contemporary fiction manuscript, BOOKS LIKE ME. Lakita is an MFA student at Vermont College of Fine Arts- Writing for Children and Young Adults. She writes picture books, middle grade and hopes to dabble in Young adult fiction someday. She is a full-time faculty member, teaching in the Teacher Education Department at Prince George's Community College in Maryland. Lakita currently runs a social media account entitled The SweetPea Girls where she promotes diverse children's books and marginalized writers and...2019-02-1637 min
My Messy MuseMy Messy Muse- Episode 11- #TeacherFeature with 5th Grade Educator Erin VarleyMy Messy Muse- Episode 11- #TeacherFeature with 5th Grade Educator Erin Varley 5th Grade Educator (for 12 years!) Erin Varley shares her and her students favorite book activities. Erin is active in the kidlit community and expands upon her book knowledge and authors resources to provide her students with a fun range of activities. A Printable Take-Away Pamphlet highlighting the activities from this Episode and pictures for guidance can be found in our private My Messy Muse Facebook Community www.facebook.com/groups/mymessymuse TEACHERS & LIBRARIANS DON’T MISS OUT! TOP 5 ACTIVITIES 1. To...2019-02-0927 min
My Messy MuseMy Messy Muse- Episode 10- Interview with Leslie C. YoungbloodLeslie C. Youngblood is an award-winning middle-grade author with Disney Hyperion. Her debut novel Love Like Sky released November 6, 2018. In this My Messy Muse interview Leslie tells us about her favorite character to write and the character with whom she most identifies. She talks about her journey to publication and how her Love Like Sky characters tugged at her to be taken out of her adult fiction work and onto the pages of their own book. Thank goodness Leslie listened! Her debut middle-grade novel Love Like Sky has received numerous accolades and for good reason! ...2019-02-0133 min
My Messy MuseEpisode 9- Interview with Hannah Carmona Dias- Picture Book AuthorPlease join us in the My Messy Muse private community on Facebook at facebook.com/groups/mymessymuse Are you a picture book writer interested in a critique? Michele is currently open for picture book critiques. Please visit her at www.michelemcavoy.com/workwithme. Are you a teacher, librarian or principal interested in a school visit? For information on school visits, please visit Michele at www.michelemcavoy.com/workwithme Hannah Carmona Dias is a children's book author. Her debut children's book "Beautiful Wonderful Strong Little Me" released in September 2018 with Eifrig Publishing. Her second...2019-01-2524 min
My Messy MuseEpisode 8- Twitter for Kidlit TalentIn this Episode Michele discusses how to use Twitter to grow your kidlit network and socialize with other kidlit talent and fans. Whether you're just starting out or a veteran in the kidlit industry, you will learn something from this Episode. Twitter is a proverbial playground for kidlit talent, take a listen to learn how to get in the game and play. Remember to also join the My Messy Muse private Facebook community to interact and mingle with other kidlit fans like you as well as be eligible for exclusive giveaways like autographed books every month! www...2019-01-1856 min
My Messy MuseEpisode 7- Interview with Kathie Maclsaac Children's Librarian and MG Book Village Co-FounderKathie Maclsaac Children's Librarian and co-founder of MG Book Village provides ideas for engaging children for Multicultural Children's Book Day, January 25th. Kathie shares with listeners one of her most successful activities she uses to engage her young patrons at the library. The activity is great for teacher and librarians looking for something fun on Multicultural Children's Book Day, a day to bring attention to all of the amazing children’s books available that celebrate diversity. https://multiculturalchildrensbookday.com https://mgbookvillage.org Activity- Book Passport: Create a small notebook for each student. Students ear...2019-01-1115 min
My Messy MuseEpisode 6- Interview with Jackie Yeager- Middle Grade AuthorJackie Yeager is a middle-grade author of the Crimson Five Series; Award-winning Spin the Golden Lightbulb (January 2018) and Flip the Silver Switch (August 2018) with Amberjack Publishing. Jackie tells us her inspiration for this creative STEM story set in the future about 5 kids who enter an inventive competition with the hopes of winning and ultimately avoid being programmed. Flying scooters, flipping bunkbeds and sparkling air purifiers are just a few of the magical elements that fill the pages of this fun juvenile journey. Take a listen to hear Jackie’s inspiration and her path to finding an...2019-01-0427 min
My Messy MuseMy Messy Muse Episode 5Don’t miss this interview with Stephanie Hansen, senior agent and owner of Metamorphosis Literary Agency as she answers all of your agent/publishing questions. Stephanie will open up for queries from December 17, 2018 through December 21, 2019 for My Messy Muse members ONLY. It’s free to join the My Messy Muse community. Please visit us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/groups/mymessymuse/ 1. You must be a My Messy Muse member to submit (she will have a members list.) 2. You must put “My Messy Muse Member” in the subject line of your query. 3. sub...2018-12-1533 min
My Messy MuseEpisode 4- Interview with Rob Vlock- Middle Grade AuthorAn interview with Rob Vlock, a middle grade author with two novels published with Simon & Schuster, Sven Carter & The Trashmouth Effect and Sven Carter & the Android Army. Rob talks about his inspiration for his crazy characters, what drove him to write for children and how writing helped him through the bumps in the road. I hope you enjoy this kidlit podcast. Visit My Messy Muse on Facebook to join our private community. All kidlit fans welcome! https://www.facebook.com/groups/mymessymuse/ https://robvlock.com2018-12-0835 min
My Messy MuseEpisode 3- Interview with Ariel Bernstein- picture book & chapter book author)An interview with Ariel Bernstein, author of a picture book call I HAVE A BALLOON, illustrated by Scott Magoon (Paula Wiseman Books/Simon & Schuster), about Owl who has a shiny red balloon, and Monkey who wants that balloon very much, and a chapter book series, WARREN & DRAGON, illustrated by Mike Malbrough (Viking/Penguin Random House), about 7 year old Warren, and Dragon, his pet dragon. The first two books in this series, 100 FRIENDS and WEEKEND WITH CHEWY, published in August 2018. Forthcoming another picture book entitled WE LOVE FISHING published by Paula Wiseman Books/Simon & Schuster) and two more books in...2018-11-2538 min
My Messy MuseEpisode 2- Amber Marchese (actress)Episode 2. My Messy Muse For Breast Cancer Awareness month, Amber Marchese opens up about her battle with breast cancer & how blogging and acting helped her to share her struggle and, in turn, help other women similarly situated.2018-11-2535 min
My Messy MuseEpisode 1- Interview with Joanna Rowland- award-winning picture book author.An interview with award-winning picture book author Joanna Rowland. Author of "The Memory Box, A Book About Grief" (2018), "Always Mom, Forever Dad" (2014) & "Stay the Storm" May 2019 with Beaming Books. Joanna talks about her inspiration for writing, her publishing journey and the messiest thing about her. You can find her books at https://www.writerrowland.com/ You can find her on twitter @WriterRowland www.beamingbooks.com2018-11-2521 min
The Italian American PodcastIAP 31: Directors Anthony and Joe Russo on how their Italian-American family supported and nurtured their rise to successIn this episode of The Italian American Podcast, we speak with Emmy-Award winning directors Anthony and Joe Russo. We also speak to Michele Cerullo McAvoy for our Story Segment, author of My Superhero Grandpa. Anthony and Joe Russo tell the story of how they went from being two young Italian American boys in Cleveland to top directors working on the latest Marvel films. The brothers, fiercely proud of their Italian-American heritage, talk about the faith and support their entire Italian-American family gave them, including their father, who, despite his reservations that the brothers would succeed as filmmakers, t...2017-01-0846 min