Shows
Kidlit Love: Conversations with Picture Book, Middle Grade and YA AuthorsE99: Finding Ourselves & Others: As You Wish by Nashae JonesOn this episode of the KidLit Love podcast, I’m talking with Nashae Jones about her newest middle grade novel: As You Wish.
In this middle grade novel, a girl learns the hard way to be careful what she wishes for and features a chaos-loving West African Trickster God. It has all the things we look for in a middle grade novel with a bit of magic, too.
Come listen as we talk about Shanae’s love of children’s literature, what finally helped her find her writing joy and how middle grade novels can help rea...2025-01-3029 minKidlit Love: Conversations with Picture Book, Middle Grade and YA AuthorsE98: New Middle Grade Adventure Series: The Doomsday Vault with Thomas WheelerOn this episode of the KidLit Love podcast, I’m talking with Thomas Wheeler about the first book in his new middle grade series: Everwhen School of Time Travel and Other Odd Sciences: The Doomsday Vault.
This book is an action-packed, truly unique time-and-place experience that is sure to hook middle grade readers with its fun action and the deeper themes threaded throughout.
Come listen as we talk about Thomas’s journey to children’s literature, the inspiration behind the book and the ‘eat your vegetables’ writing it required. As Thomas says in the episode, science and...2025-01-2745 minKidlit Love: Conversations with Picture Book, Middle Grade and YA AuthorsE97: Baseball Mysteries & Football Mysteries with David A. KellyOn this episode of the KidLit Love podcast, I’m talking with David A. Kelly about his newest early chapter books: Satchel’s Stolen Strike and The Two-Minute Warning.
These books are from his beloved series: Ballpark Mysteries and Football Mysteries. David’s books have been connecting with sports and mystery-minded readers for years and his collection keeps on growing.
Come listen as we talk about the spark that started it all, his enviable process of book research and what his hopes are for the series.
You’ll find the show notes for the episod...2025-01-2344 minKidlit Love: Conversations with Picture Book, Middle Grade and YA AuthorsE96: Layers of Lessons: A Hat for House with Audrey PerrottOn this episode of the KidLit Love podcast, I’m talking with Audrey Perrott about her newest picture book: A Hat for House.
This delightful picture book tells the story of what happens when a storm blows House’s roof away. It’s a reassuring tale of community, of coming together during any storm and of being yourself, too.
Come listen as we talk about the dual inspiration behind the book, the important reminders that might find readers inside the pages and the gorgeous illustrations, too.
You’ll find the show notes for the episod...2025-01-2037 minKidlit Love: Conversations with Picture Book, Middle Grade and YA AuthorsE95: Heart-Piercing Middle Grade: Scattergood with H.M. BouwmanOn this episode of the KidLit Love podcast, I’m talking with Heather Bouwman about her newest middle grade novel: Scattergood.
This heart-piercing historical fiction novel brings young readers to rural Iowa in 1941 where twelve-year-old Peggy’s quiet life is turned upside down by refugee arrivals, first love and a heart-breaking diagnosis.
Come listen as we talk about the backstory behind the long journey to this particular book, the inspiration behind it and the themes that will likely resonate with the readers that need them.
You’ll find the show notes for the episod...2025-01-1637 minKidlit Love: Conversations with Picture Book, Middle Grade and YA AuthorsE94: Themes & Entry Points: No Purchase Necessary with Maria MarianayagamOn this episode of the KidLit Love podcast, I’m talking with author Maria Marianayagam about her newest middle grade novel: No Purchase Necessary.
This book is about a Sri Lanka boy’s life that spirals out of control when he wins a prize in a stolen candy bar, pushing him to navigate his identity amid his ever watchful family.
Come listen as we talk about the threads that are evident across Maria’s book, the important themes found inside the book and the multiple entry points around candy cars, karate and poetry found inside the boo...2025-01-1337 minKidlit Love: Conversations with Picture Book, Middle Grade and YA AuthorsE93: 'Freadom', Forgiveness & Finding Your Voice: Same Page with Elly SwartzOn this episode of the KidLit Love podcast, I’m talking with Elly Swartz about her newest middle grade novel: Same Page.
This book is a book for every book-lover. It follows Bess Stein, her friends and a group of rockstar librarians called The Book Warriors as they fight against book-banning. Plus, it’s a book about families and how they work, anxiety and the toolkits we can build for ourselves and so much more.
Come listen as we talk about the power of middle grade books, the importance of reading freedom and how we can al...2025-01-0942 minKidlit Love: Conversations with Picture Book, Middle Grade and YA AuthorsE92: Writing Pieces of Life: The McNifficents with Amy Makechnie
On this episode of the KidLit Love podcast, I’m talking with Amy Makechnie about her newest middle grade novel: The McNifficents.
This middle grade novel tells the story of six rambunctious children and their nanny, who happens to be a very dignified Miniature Schnauzer.
Come listen as we talk about Amy’s journey to children’s literature, how her first middle grade novel was originally written for adults and how pieces of her real life are woven throughout the pages. The conversation was fun, uplifting and I can’t wait to read her enti...2025-01-0629 minKidlit Love: Conversations with Picture Book, Middle Grade and YA AuthorsE91: Lullaby Blessings: Love is Here with You by Jyoti Rajan GopalOn this episode of the KidLit Love podcast, I’m talking with Jyoti Rajan Gopal about her newest picture book: Love is Here With You.
This beautiful book is wrapped in comfort and love as readers listen to a beautiful lullaby perfect for bedtime reading or anytime we want to feel warmly embraced.
Come listen as we talk about how Jyoti went from a Kindergarten teacher to prolific author, how her new book feels like a warm hug and how it acts as a portal for new learning at the same time.
You’ll fi...2025-01-0235 minKidlit Love: Conversations with Picture Book, Middle Grade and YA AuthorsE90: Confidence and Second Chances: The Beautiful Game by Yamile Saied MendezOn this episode of the KidLit Love podcast, I’m talking with Yamile Saied Mendez about her newest middle grade novel: The Beautiful Game.
The Beautiful Game is an uplifting, heartfelt novel about family, self-confidence, the power of second chances and soccer, too.
Come listen as we talk about the power of the page, how Yamile’s character-driven books come to her, the importance of strong, confident characters and much, much more.
You’ll find the show notes for the episode with links to all of the books and resources mentioned right here: https...2024-12-3046 minKidlit Love: Conversations with Picture Book, Middle Grade and YA AuthorsE89: Celebrating Family & Food: Challah for Shabbat Tonight with Sara Holly Ackerman and Alona MillgramOn this episode of the KidLit Love podcast, I’m talking with Sara Holly Ackerman and Alona Millgram about their newest picture book: Challah for Shabbat Tonight.
This beautiful picture book celebrates Jewish joy and intergenerational love as it follows a girl and her grandmother preparing for Shabbat dinner by baking traditional challah from scratch.
We talk about the book and Sara’s inspiration behind it, how Alona brought the beautiful story to life and the underlying universal themes of food, family and love.
You’ll find the show notes for the episode with lin...2024-12-2326 minKidlit Love: Conversations with Picture Book, Middle Grade and YA AuthorsE88: Follow the Enthusiasm: Shaken with James PrellerOn this episode of the KidLit Love podcast, I’m talking with James Preller about his newest middle grade novel: Shaken.
This book is about a girl who has dedicated her whole life to soccer and finds herself with a serious concussion after a play went wrong in the game. The aftermath is difficult and threatens to undo everything Kristy has worked for.
Come listen as we talk about James’ wide career across multiple levels and genres, how he follows his enthusiasm when deciding what to write next and the learning process of bringing a book t...2024-12-1950 minKidlit Love: Conversations with Picture Book, Middle Grade and YA AuthorsE87: Select Getting the Inside Scoop on Still Life with Alex London & Paul O. ZelinskyOn this episode of the KidLit Love podcast, I’m talking with Alex London & Paul O. Zelinsky about their picture book: Still Life.
This delightful book invites readers into the world of art…but that world isn’t always what it seems.
Come listen as we talk about the middle-of-the-night moment that inspired the book, the process of creating such immersive illustrations and how it all comes together for readers. We’ll even reference a fun Easter Egg for readers to find, too.
You’ll find the show notes for the episode with links to a...2024-12-1648 minKidlit Love: Conversations with Picture Book, Middle Grade and YA AuthorsE86: Starting From Within: Kareem Between by Shifa Saltagi SafadiOn this episode of the KidLit Love podcast, I’m talking with Shifa Saltagi Safadi about her new middle grade novel: Kareem Between.
It’s a coming-of-age novel-in-verse about a Syrian American boy and his struggles, big and small, as he navigates middle school. It’s powerful, it’s emotional, it’s lyrical, it’s quintessential middle school, it’s football, it’s transformative. It’s literally all the things we could want in a middle grade novel.
Come listen as we talk about Shifa’s lifelong love of books, the imposter syndrome she had to get over, the inspi...2024-12-1238 minKidlit Love: Conversations with Picture Book, Middle Grade and YA AuthorsE85: Magic & Emotion: The Bakery Dragon with Devin Elle KurtzOn this episode of the KidLit Love podcast, I’m talking with author and illustrator Devin Elle Kurtz about her debut picture book: The Bakery Dragon.
This book will take you on a magical journey with Ember, a tiny dragon with a heart of gold and a taste for treats on a mission to belong. Inspired by her viral Instagram post, Devin has brought her illustrations to life in the most beautiful way.
Come listen as we talk about her journey as an artist and author, her inspiration for the book and her hopes for re...2024-12-0942 minKidlit Love: Conversations with Picture Book, Middle Grade and YA AuthorsE84: Regular-Pegular Relatable Stories: Bibsy Cross with Liz Garton ScanlonOn this episode of the KidLit Love podcast, I’m talking with Liz Garton Scanlon about her newest Bibsy Cross book series.
This is a delightful series around a regular-pegular third grader, her family and her friends. There are currently 2 books in the series, soon to be four, and it's already getting starred reviews for its relatable stories and charming characters.
Come listen as Liz and I talk about her journey to children’s literature, the relatable themes in her books sure to appeal to readers and her role in supporting educators and librarians against book...2024-12-0547 minKidlit Love: Conversations with Picture Book, Middle Grade and YA AuthorsE83: Imagining Possibilities: A Steminist Force with Laura Carter and Anna DohertyOn this episode of the KidLit Love podcast, I’m talking with Laura Carter and Anna Doherty about their picture book: A STEMinist Force.
This beautiful book is full of possibilities. Inside is a reminder that we can be whoever we want to be, especially if we want to find ourselves in STEM careers. It’s filled with rhyming verses and gorgeous illustrations along with backmatter that showcases specific women in STEM careers that have paved the way for us now.
Come listen as we talk about the inspiration behind the book, the delightful way the i...2024-12-0231 minKidlit Love: Conversations with Picture Book, Middle Grade and YA AuthorsE82: Cultural Belonging: In the Groves with Andrea Cruz FlorenOn this episode of the KidLit Love podcast, I’m talking with author Andrea Cruz Floren about her debut picture book: In the Groves.
This book is a whirlwind adventure about cultural belonging and is inspired by Andrea’s own grandfather and his orange groves. In it, Clara finds magic, fun and excitement in her cultural heritage while visiting her grandparents.
Come listen as we talk about Andrea’s backstory into children’s literature, the inspiration behind the book, the feat of both writing and illustrating a book and my favorite…..the Easter eggs hidden inside the...2024-11-2533 minKidlit Love: Conversations with Picture Book, Middle Grade and YA AuthorsE81: Chess. Anxiety & Friendship: May the Best Player Win with Kyla ZhaoOn this episode of the KidLit Love podcast, I’m talking with author Kyla Zhao about her newest middle grade novel: May the Best Player Win.
This book is about a Bay Area chess player who makes a bet with her sexist rival that girls are as good as guys at the game. That brings all sorts of emotional ups and downs and changes within her friendships and within herself too.
Come listen as we talk about Kyla’s two adult novels and her journey to children’s literature. We’ll take a deep dive into May...2024-11-2133 minKidlit Love: Conversations with Picture Book, Middle Grade and YA AuthorsE80: Magical & Cultural Experiences: The Night Market with Seina WedlickOn this episode of the KidLit Love podcast, I’m talking with author Seina Wedlick about her newest picture book: The Night Market.
The Night Market is a STUNNING book that made me add an item to my ‘Bucket List From Books’ list: visit a Nigerian night market.
Come listen as we talk about the moment she took action on her dream, the beautiful themes that are evident across all of her books and the deep dive we took into her newest book.
You’ll find the show notes for the episode with links to...2024-11-1826 minKidlit Love: Conversations with Picture Book, Middle Grade and YA AuthorsE79: Spooky Summer Camp: Camp Twisted Pine with Ciera BurchOn this episode of the KidLit Love podcast, I’m talking with Ciera Burch about her new middle grade novel: Camp Twisted Pine.
This spooky middle grade novel invites readers into Camp Twisted Pine, a summer camp in New Jersey with a spooky secret. It has so much to offer readers, from the spooky and mysterious to the challenges of family and friendship.
Come listen as we talk about Ciera’s path to writing, the backstory behind the book and even discuss her favorite notebook and pen, too.
You’ll find the show notes...2024-11-1431 minKidlit Love: Conversations with Picture Book, Middle Grade and YA AuthorsE78: The Importance of Self Care: The Big Squeeze with Molly HarrisOn this episode of the KidLit Love podcast, I’m talking with Molly Harris about her debut picture book: The Big Squeeze.
The Big Squeeze is about a little sponge with a big job: she washes and mops and scrubs away all the messes in the kitchen. But what happens when the mess gets too big and she just can’t clean any more? This delightful book sends a powerful message that every reader needs.
Come listen as we talk about the spark for the story, the power of books to connect us together and the...2024-11-1136 minKidlit Love: Conversations with Picture Book, Middle Grade and YA AuthorsE78: Celebrating 15 Years of The Global Read Aloud with Pernille RippToday is a special day on the KidLit Love podcast because I’m talking to Pernille Ripp, creator of the Global Read Aloud.
The Global Read Aloud is a powerful experience that unites classrooms together with a single goal: to read the same book as a global collective. I’ve been a part of this bookish experience for many years and invite as many educators to join me as I can.
Come listen as we talk about where the idea for The Global Read Aloud started 15 years ago and how it has grown into something even...2024-11-0852 minKidlit Love: Conversations with Picture Book, Middle Grade and YA AuthorsE76: Magical Expeditions: Majestica with Sarah TolcserOn this episode of the KidLit Love podcast, I’m talking with Sarah Tolcser about her new middle grade novel: Majestica.
This middle grade novel is about two girls, a magical hotel and an expedition gone wrong and has received rave reviews, including a starred review from Kirkus.
Come listen as we talk about the inspiration behind her writing, get inside information into how some of the magic came to be and what Sarah hopes readers will take away from the novel.
You’ll find the show notes for the episode with links to all...2024-11-0735 minKidlit Love: Conversations with Picture Book, Middle Grade and YA AuthorsE75: The Power of Comics & Graphic Novels: Let’s Go, Coco! With Coco FoxOn this episode of the KidLit Love podcast, I’m talking with author Coco Fox about her debut middle grade graphic novel: Let’s Go, Coco!
This powerful graphic novel is about an eleven year old girl who will stop at nothing to make new friends on her basketball team…but shouldn’t true friends like you just the way you are?
Created with a stunning color palette, Let’s Go, Coco! is filled with so many relatable themes: changing friendships, parent and sibling relationships, basketball and finding courage from within.
Come listen as we explor...2024-11-0447 minKidlit Love: Conversations with Picture Book, Middle Grade and YA AuthorsE74: Halloween Fun: A Bite Above the Rest with Christine VirnigIt’s the PERFECT day to talk about Christine Virnig’s new middle grade novel debut: A Bite Above the Rest.
Why? It’s Halloween!
This Halloween-themed book is sure to delight readers at this time of the year AND at any other time, too. It’s about a boy who moves to a Halloween-themed town only to realize there may be more to the tourist trap that meets the eye.
You’ll find the show notes for the episode with links to all of the books and resources mentioned right here: https://www.alitli...2024-10-3126 minKidlit Love: Conversations with Picture Book, Middle Grade and YA AuthorsE73: From Comic Strips to Graphic Novels: The Sophie Series with Brian AndersonOn this episode of the KidLit Love podcast, I’m talking with Brian Anderson about his new graphic novels series for middle grade readers: Sophie.
What started as a nationally syndicated comic strip called Dog Eat Doug has continued into a delightfully funny and imaginative middle grade graphic novel series sure to delight readers.
Come listen as we discuss how Brian was called to comics, the evolution of his comic career to children’s book author and his advice to budding writers and creatives, no matter how old you are.
You’ll find the sh...2024-10-2840 minKidlit Love: Conversations with Picture Book, Middle Grade and YA AuthorsE72: Hope in Middle Grade: Unsinkable Cayenne with Jessica VitalisOn this episode of the KidLit Love podcast, I’m talking with Jessica Vitalis about her newest historical fiction novel-in-verse: Unsinkable Cayenne.
This book follows Cayenne as her unconventional family settles down and attempts to make roots in a single place. It’s filled with themes of family, friendship, belonging and social class while also connecting the fascinating topic of the Titanic.
Come listen as we talk about the book, the importance of real stories for real readers, the distinction between hope and happiness and so much more.
You’ll find the show notes fo...2024-10-2428 minKidlit Love: Conversations with Picture Book, Middle Grade and YA AuthorsE71: Our Vote Matters: The Day Madear Voted with Don Tate and Wade HudsonOn this episode of the KidLit Love podcast, I’m talking with author and illustrator team Wade Hudson and Don Tate.
They’re here to talk about their powerful book: The Day Madear Voted. In it, they provide a moving look at a Black family’s journey to exercise their right to vote and imagine a better future. It’s the perfect book for the election season we are in.
You’ll find the show notes for the episode with links to all of the books and resources mentioned right here: https://www.alitlife.com/2024/10/21/our-vote-ma...2024-10-2139 minKidlit Love: Conversations with Picture Book, Middle Grade and YA AuthorsE70: History, Courage and Connection: Across So Many Seas with Ruth BeharOn this episode of the KidLit Love podcast, I’m living out another readerly dream and talking with Ruth Behar, an author who has made such an impact on my reading life and my actual one, too.
Today, we’re talking about her newest book: Across So Many Seas. It’s a powerful novel about four girls in four different times and places united by their desire to belong and matter.
We talk about the book, the pieces of her found inside her books, the magic in the writing process and so much more.
You’l...2024-10-1736 minKidlit Love: Conversations with Picture Book, Middle Grade and YA AuthorsE69: The Power of Non-Fiction: Phenomenal AOC with Anika Aldamuy DeniseIn this episode of the KidLit Love podcast, I’m talking with Anika Aldamuy Denise, author of multiple award-winning fiction and non-fiction picture books.
Come listen as we talk about the power of non-fiction, the sparks that launched each of her books, the draft behind and writing and take a deep dive into Phenomenal AOC: The Roots and Rise of Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez.
You’ll find the show notes for the episode with links to all of the books and resources mentioned right here: https://www.alitlife.com/2024/10/14/the-power-of-non-fiction-phenomenal-aoc-with-anika-aldamuy-denise/
Join me inside my Facebook commu...2024-10-1452 minKidlit Love: Conversations with Picture Book, Middle Grade and YA AuthorsE68: Navigating Friendships: Crushing It with Erin BeckerOn this episode of the KidLit Love podcast, I’m talking with Erin Becker about her debut novel: Crushing It.
Crushing It introduces readers to Mel and Tory, two 13-year-old girls navigating their way through the soccer championships now that their friend group has fallen apart. When they connect anonymously online, their lives become increasingly complex as their feelings deepen and they realize there may be more than hate under the surface.
Come listen as we talk about the inspiration behind the book, the journey it took from verse to prose, the exciting elements inside, lik...2024-10-1041 minKidlit Love: Conversations with Picture Book, Middle Grade and YA AuthorsE67: Fun & Interactive: Have You Seen My Acorn? with D.K. RylandOn this episode of the KidLit Love podcast, I’m talking with D.K. Ryland about her newest picture book: Have You Seen My Acorn?
This is a delightful book about a squirrel who buried his precious acorn for safekeeping, only to find it mysteriously missing. Readers will join the hunt to help Squirrel find it, likely laughing along the way, too.
Come listen as we talk about D.K.’s journey to children’s literature, the process she takes for both writing AND illustrating and her hope to give back what she loved about readin...2024-10-0725 minKidlit Love: Conversations with Picture Book, Middle Grade and YA AuthorsE66: Celebrating Stinky’s Stories with Chris and JJ GrabensteinOn this episode of the KidLit Love podcast, I’m talking with Chris and J.J. Grabenstein about their new chapter book series: Stinky’s Stories.
The books in the Stinky’s Stories series are hilarious, smelly spins on classic fairy tales. In each, the stuffed animals in the library come to life after the story of the day has been read….and then rewrite the ending to be much more satisfying and FUN.
Come listen as Chris and JJ share the inspiration behind the series, give us a sneak peek into the incredible voices we will...2024-10-0333 minKidlit Love: Conversations with Picture Book, Middle Grade and YA AuthorsE65: All the Feels: Not Nothing with Gayle FormanOn this episode of the KidLit Love podcast, I’m talking with author Gayle Forman about her newest middle grade graphic novel: Not Nothing.
Gayle is the award-winning author of multiple young adult and middle novels, including my favorites: I Have Lost My Way and Frankie and Bug.
Come listen as we talk about the importance of stories, intergenerational relationships and rising to the occasion in our own lives.
You’ll find the show notes for the episode with links to all of the books and resources mentioned right here: https://www.alitlife.com/2...2024-09-3029 minKidlit Love: Conversations with Picture Book, Middle Grade and YA AuthorsE64: Brave, Compassionate & Inclusive: The ABC’s of Queer History by Seema YasminOn this episode of the KidLit Love podcast, I’m talking with Seema Yasmin about her powerful picture book: The ABC’s of Queer History.
This book invites readers into an alphabet journey of diversity, equity and inclusivity in both lyrical words and gorgeous illustrations.
Come listen as we talk about the power of a book to change lives, how book banning is actually empathy banning and why everyone, both child and adult, needs to read this book.
You’ll find the show notes for the episode with links to all of the books an...2024-09-2641 minKidlit Love: Conversations with Picture Book, Middle Grade and YA AuthorsE63: Preserving Hawaiian Mythology: Lei and the Invisible Island with Malia MaunakeaOn this episode of the KidLit Love podcast, I’m talking with Malia Maunakea about her newest middle grade novel Lei and the Invisible Island.
It’s the second book in the Lai and the Legends series and will both transport your mind with the immersive and suspenseful plot and connect to your heart with important themes around friendship, family and forgiveness.
You’ll find the show notes for the episode with links to all of the books and resources mentioned right here: https://www.alitlife.com/2024/09/23/preserving-hawaiian-mythology-lei-and-the-invisible-island-with-malia-maunakea/
Join me inside my Facebook communit...2024-09-2331 minKidlit Love: Conversations with Picture Book, Middle Grade and YA AuthorsE62: Uncovering History: Rise of the Spider with Michael P. SpradlinOn this episode of the KidLit Love podcast, I’m talking with Michael P. Spradlin, the NY Times Bestselling author of The Spy Goddess series, The Youngest Templer series and several other works of historical fiction.
Here’s here today to talk about his newest book, The Rise of the Spider. It’s the first of 6 books in the Web of the Spider series about the lead up to World War II.
You’ll find the show notes for the episode with links to all of the books and resources mentioned right here:
https://www.alitlife...2024-09-1933 minKidlit Love: Conversations with Picture Book, Middle Grade and YA AuthorsE61: Connecting Family & Nature: The Seasons of Parastoo with Rashin KheiriyehOn this episode of the KidLit Love podcast, I’m talking with Rashin Kheiriyeh about her newest picture book: The Seasons of Parastoo.
Rashin has published over 90 books in over 12 countries and has received 50 national and international awards recognizing her work.
Today, she’s here to talk about the inspiration behind her newest picture book. We’ll get to know her and her books, explore her personal connection to The Seasons of Parastoo and get the inside scoop on how she goes about creating those brilliant and beautiful illustrations, too.
You’ll find the show n...2024-09-1630 minKidlit Love: Conversations with Picture Book, Middle Grade and YA AuthorsE60: Telling Stories That Heal: The Diamond Explorer with Kao Kalia YangOn this episode of the KidLit Love podcast, I’m talking with Kao Kalia Yang about her debut middle grade novel: The Diamond Explorer.
Kao has been on the podcast before to talked about Caged, her powerful picture book illustrated by Khou Vue, and I still carry pieces of our conversation in my reader's heart.
Today, she’s here to talk about the inspiration behind her newest middle grade novel. We’ll explore why she writes, the themes that cut across all of her books, the power of books to get closer to who we are and...2024-09-1229 minKidlit Love: Conversations with Picture Book, Middle Grade and YA AuthorsE59: Middle Grade Horror: The Horrible Bag of Terrible Things with Rob RenzettiOn this episode of the KidLit Love podcast, I’m talking with Emmy-award winning animation-veteran-turned-middle-grade-author Rob Renzetti.
You might know him from the popular shows he worked on, such as My Life as a Teenage Robot and Gravity Falls, and today, he’s here to talk about his middle grade horror novels.
We talk about how he shifted from animator to author, how he created an incredibly realistic-feeling imaginary world and the deep connections and themes threaded across the characters.
You’ll find the show notes for the episode with links to all of the...2024-09-0933 minKidlit Love: Conversations with Picture Book, Middle Grade and YA AuthorsE58: Having Fun Reading with Alan KatzIn this episode of the KidLit Love podcast, I’m talking with Alan Katz, the hilarious author of more than 50 books for kids, including Take Me Out of the Bathtub and Other Silly Dilly Stories, the Lieography and Society of Substitutes series and Really Stupid Stories for Really Smart Kids.
Listen as we talk about his newest book, Zooloween, and chat about his background as a writer, how and where he gets his ideas, what his hopes are for readers and much more.
Get your cheeks ready because you’ll laugh so much they’ll hurt. I...2024-09-0541 minKidlit Love: Conversations with Picture Book, Middle Grade and YA AuthorsE57: Celebrating Ten Years of The Princess in Black with Shannon & Dean HaleOn this episode of the KidLit Love podcast, we’re celebrating a special occasion: The 10th Anniversary of The Princess in Black series!
Shannon and Dean Hale are here to talk about how The Princess in Black got started, where they get their inspiration from and why this series is so important in the reading lives of so many children.
You’ll find the show notes for the episode with links to all of the books and resources mentioned right here: https://www.alitlife.com/2024/09/02/celebrating-ten-years-of-the-princess-in-black-with-shannon-and-dean-hale/
Join me inside my Facebook community for booki...2024-09-0228 minKidlit Love: Conversations with Picture Book, Middle Grade and YA AuthorsE56: Exploring Craft: Who’s Writing This Story? With Robin NewmanIn this episode of the KidLit Love podcast, I’m talking with Robin Newman.
Robin is the author of the middle grade Wilcox and Griswold series, Hildie Bitterpickles Needs Her Sleep, Don’t Call Me Fuzzybutt and Who’s Writing This Story?
Today, we talk about the unexpected inspiration for her first book, how she continues to explore the craft of writing and what’s coming next.
You’ll find the show notes for the episode with links to all of the books and resources mentioned right here: https://www.alitlife.com/2024/08/29/exploring-craft-whos-writing-this-story-with-robin-newman/
Join...2024-08-2935 minKidlit Love: Conversations with Picture Book, Middle Grade and YA AuthorsE55: Illuminating Stories with Violet DuncanIn this episode of the KidLit Love podcast, I’m talking with Violet Duncan.
Violet is the author of multiple picture books, including I am Native, When We Dance and Let’s Hoop Dance. Today, she’s talking with us about her newest middle grade novel: Buffalo Dreamer.
This book is all the things: powerful and emotional, eye-opening and heart-opening, unsettling yet hopeful. It’s a story that begs to be read by all.
Today, we talk about the inspiration behind her writing, the themes you’ll find inside the book and her hopes for rea...2024-08-2638 minKidlit Love: Conversations with Picture Book, Middle Grade and YA AuthorsE54: Suspense & History: The Sherlock Society with James PontiIn this episode, I’m talking with New York Times best-selling author James Ponti.
James is the author of four incredibly popular middle grade book series: City Spies, Framed and his newest: The Sherlock Society.
Come listen as we talk about his journey to writing for middle grade readers, how he plots, envisions and writes his books and what his newest book is all about.
You’ll find the show notes for the episode with links to all of the books and resources mentioned right here: https://www.alitlife.com/2024/08/22/suspense-history-the-sherlock-society-with-james-ponti/
Join...2024-08-2236 minKidlit Love: Conversations with Picture Book, Middle Grade and YA AuthorsE53: Shifting the Conversation: We Are Big Time with Hena KhanOn this episode of the KidLit Love podcast, I’m talking with Hena Khan about her newest middle grade graphic novel: We Are Big Time.
Hena is the author of multiple books that center on Pakistani American and Muslim characters for over 2 decades. Books like Amina’s Voice, Amina’s Song, More to the Story and Behind My Doors have captivated readers’ hearts.
Today, we talk about the single encounter that set her on the path to writing children’s books, the power of both being seen and seeing through the books we read and telling ou...2024-08-1930 minKidlit Love: Conversations with Picture Book, Middle Grade and YA AuthorsE52: A Blend of Humor & Heart: Otis & Peanut with Naseem HrabIn this episode of the KidLit Love podcast, I’m talking with Naseem Hrab, author of my favorite Otis & Peanut graphic novel series and other beautiful picture books.
Listen as we talk about the one thing that finally gave her the confidence to write, the pieces of her that live inside her books and take a closer look inside the Otis & Peanut series.
You’ll find the show notes for the episode with links to all of the books and resources mentioned right here: https://www.alitlife.com/2024/08/16/a-blend-of-humor-heart-otis-peanut-with-naseem-hrab/
Join me inside my Face...2024-08-1638 minKidlit Love: Conversations with Picture Book, Middle Grade and YA AuthorsE51: Sharing Untold Stories: Lion of the Sky by Ritu HemnaniOn this episode of the KidLit Love podcast, I’m talking with Ritu Hemnani about her debut middle novel in verse: Lion of the Sky. It’s an incredible historical novel about the British Partition of India.
This book was such an experience. It often stopped me in my tracks and took my breath away as I savored the beauty of the words and the emotion on the page.
Come listen as we talk about the book and how the idea for it was born, the beautiful language I couldn’t wait to lift off the pag...2024-08-1230 minKidlit Love: Conversations with Picture Book, Middle Grade and YA AuthorsE50: Creating New Worlds for Readers: Skyriders with Polly HolyokeIn this episode of the KidLit Love podcast, I’m talking with Polly Holyoke.
Polly is the author of the award-winning Neptune Trilogy and acclaimed Skyriders series. She’s here today to talk about the inspiration behind her work, how she creates vivid, believable new worlds for her novels and how important it is to respect young readers.
You’ll find the show notes for the episode with links to all of the books and resources mentioned right here: https://www.alitlife.com/2024/08/09/creating-new-worlds-for-readers-skyriders-with-polly-holyoke/
Join me inside my Facebook community for bookish people! There...2024-08-0951 minKidlit Love: Conversations with Picture Book, Middle Grade and YA AuthorsE49: From Dream to Reality: Writing Kidlit with Victoria J. Coe & Cheryl Lawton MaloneToday on this bonus episode of the KidLit Love podcast, I’m talking with Victoria J. Coe and Cheryl Lawton Malone, children’s literature authors with books we know and love.
Together, they have written two books designed to launch your writing dreams and fast-track your progress…and I can say from experience that their method WORKS. I’ve already written my first draft of a picture book and am happily revising and tinkering.
Come listen as they each share their own publishing journey, give us their top tips for taking action on our writing dreams and...2024-08-0555 minKidlit Love: Conversations with Picture Book, Middle Grade and YA AuthorsE48: Freedom & Resilience: Caged with Kao Kalia Yang & Khou VueIn this episode of the KidLit Love podcast, I’m talking with Kao Kalia Yang and Khou Vue, the author and illustrator team behind Caged, a stunning, powerful picture book.
Listen as we talk about Caged, the cool connection both of their daughters have in contributing to their careers and how they get to meet for the first time live on KidLit Love. =)
You’ll find the show notes for the episode with links to all of the books and resources mentioned right here: https://www.alitlife.com/2024/08/02/freedom-resilience-caged-with-kao-kalia-yang-khou-vue/
Join me inside my Face...2024-08-0232 minKidlit Love: Conversations with Picture Book, Middle Grade and YA AuthorsE47 National Archive Hunters Capitol Chase with Matt LandisIn this episode of the KidLit Love podcast, I’m talking with Matt Landis, a middle grade author whose books aim to make history “not boring”.
His books certainly accomplish that mission, especially his newest series-starter National Archive Hunters: Capitol Chase.
Listen as we talk about his work as a history teacher, his middle grade books and his incredibly cool National RV Tour in 2025. You’ll want to get your school on his itinerary after listening!
You’ll find the show notes for the episode with links to all of the books and resources...2024-07-2939 minKidlit Love: Conversations with Picture Book, Middle Grade and YA AuthorsE46: Finding Your Place: The Secret Language of Birds with Lynne KellyIn this episode of the KidLit Love podcast, I’m talking with Lynne Kelly, an award-winning author of three middle grade novels that will steal your heart.
Listen as we talk about and take a deeper dive into The Secret Language of Birds, a novel that gave me all the feels that I cannot stop thinking about.
You’ll find the show notes for the episode with links to all of the books and resources mentioned right here: https://www.alitlife.com/2024/07/26/finding-your-place-the-secret-language-of-birds-with-lynne-kelly/
Join me inside my Facebook community for bookish people! There, we ta...2024-07-2639 minKidlit Love: Conversations with Picture Book, Middle Grade and YA AuthorsE45: All Voices Matter: Ruby Rene Had So Much to Say with Ashley ImanIn this episode of the KidLit Love podcast, I’m talking with Ashley Iman about her debut picture book Ruby Rene Had So Much To Say.
Listen as we talk about why she wrote this book, the important message woven inside the pages and her favorite notebook, too. =)
You’ll find the show notes for the episode with links to all of the books and resources mentioned right here: https://www.alitlife.com/2024/07/22/all-voices-matter-ruby-rene-had-so-much-to-say-with-ashley-iman/
Join me inside my Facebook community for bookish people! There, we talk about all things books and reading and writ...2024-07-2223 minKidlit Love: Conversations with Picture Book, Middle Grade and YA AuthorsE44: Picture Books Matter: Queen of Leaves with Stephen BrisenoIn this episode, I’m talking with Stephen Briseño, author of one of my FAVORITE picture books: The Notebook Keeper: A Story of Kindness from the Border.
Listen as we talk about The Notebook Keeper, along with Stephen’s newest picture book, Queen of Leaves: The Story of Ynes Mexia.
We talk about why he started writing, where his book ideas come from and why picture books matter so much.
You’ll find the show notes for the episode with links to all of the books and resources mentioned right here: https://www.alit...2024-07-1928 minKidlit Love: Conversations with Picture Book, Middle Grade and YA AuthorsE43: Emotion & Heart: Mooncakes Mean Family by Benson ShumIn this episode of the KidLit Love podcast, I’m talking with Benson Shum.
Benson is the author and illustrator of multiple picture books I love and has worked as an animator on some Disney movies you know and love, too….Big Hero 6 and Frozen are two of them. =)
Listen as we talk about his newest book, Mooncakes Mean Family, a book that gave me all the warm fuzzy feels of family, food and tradition.
We also talk about the connections between his animation and illustration, the emotion he brings to his books and w...2024-07-1530 minKidlit Love: Conversations with Picture Book, Middle Grade and YA AuthorsE42: The Amazing Power of Girls with Maria MarianayagamIn this episode, I’m talking with Maria Marianayagam. She’s the author of The Amazing Power of Girls, an absolutely brilliant, lyrical and inspiring book.
Come listen as we talk about the fact that we are all made up of multitudes…and the intersection of them all is where she writes. Maria will share her journey to writing, the philosophy she embodies and we’ll take a deep dive into her newest picture book. We’ll also explore her series of board books for toddlers and get a sneak peek into her newest writing projects coming soon. ...2024-07-1233 minKidlit Love: Conversations with Picture Book, Middle Grade and YA AuthorsE41: The Power of Emotion and Connection: Help Wanted: One Rooster with Julie FalatkoToday’s conversation was such a treat!
In this episode of the KidLit Love podcast, I’m talking with Julie Falatko.
Julie is the author of several picture book and middle grade novels, including my favorite epistolary novels in picture book form: Yours in Books.
Come listen as we talk about her lifelong dream of writing and the moment she realized it was a possibility, talk about a few of our favorite titles and share our love of connecting books to the right reader.
You’ll find the show notes for the epi...2024-07-0834 minKidlit Love: Conversations with Picture Book, Middle Grade and YA AuthorsE40: Family, Friendship & food: Grilled Cheese? Yes, Please! with Tim KleynIn this episode, I’m talking with Tim Kleyn, author of Set Sail for Pancakes! and Grilled Cheese? Yes, Please! These delightful picture books are full of family, friendship and food, which makes them feel-good picture books for me.
Come listen as we talk about Tim’s journey to his new picture books, take a deep dive into Grilled Cheese? Yes, Please! and talk about the best way to make a grilled cheese sandwich, too. =)
You’ll find the show notes for the episode with links to all of the books and resources mentioned right here. 2024-07-0526 minKidlit Love: Conversations with Picture Book, Middle Grade and YA AuthorsE39: Finding Your Voice: The Day Bell Found Her Sound with Lizzy O'DonnellIn this bonus summer episode of the KidLit Love podcast, I’m talking with Lizzy O’Donnell.
Lizzy is the author of The Day Bell Found Her Sound. It’s a gorgeous book set in a bustling, melodious town where everyone has found their special sound….expect Bell. The message of staying true to yourself and finding your voice rings loud and clear.
Come listen as we talk about Lizzy’s journey of illustration and writing, how they create incredibly moving worlds on the page and what their hopes for readers are.
You’ll find the s...2024-07-0144 minKidlit Love: Conversations with Picture Book, Middle Grade and YA AuthorsE38: Wonder & Delight with Laura GehlIn this episode, I’m talking with Laura Gehl, an award-winning author of over 50 board books, picture books and early readers. Her books are full of wonder and delight and today, we are talking about her newest: Saving Delicia.
Come listen as we talk about her writing, her hopes for readers, Saving Delicia and her next books releasing in 2025, too!
You’ll find the show notes for the episode with links to all of the books and resources mentioned right here.
Join me inside my Facebook community for bookish people! There, we talk about...2024-06-2829 minKidlit Love: Conversations with Picture Book, Middle Grade and YA AuthorsE37: Believing in Yourself: Camp Prodigy with Caroline PalmerIn this bonus summer episode of the KidLit Love podcast, I’m talking with Caroline Palmer.
Caroline is the author of Camp Prodigy, a middle grade graphic novel that follows two non-binary kids who navigate anxiety and identity while having fun and forming friendships at their summer orchestra camp.
Come listen as we talk about Caroline's journey to writing, their comic book career, and what they hope readers will take away from Camp Prodigy…just in time to kick off the summer reading season.
You’ll find the show notes for the episode with li...2024-06-2432 minKidlit Love: Conversations with Picture Book, Middle Grade and YA AuthorsE36: Family, Friends & All the Feels: Monica Mancillas with Sing It Like CeliaIn this episode, I’m talking with Monica Mancillas, author of Sing It Like Celia, a middle grade novel that hijacked my heart.
There is an entry point for everyone to be seen and/or see a new perspective in this book and it gave me all the feels.
Listen as we talk about her love of stories, take a deep dive into her book and talk about the power of books to change lives and make the world a better place.
You’ll find the show notes for the episode with links to al...2024-06-2133 minKidlit Love: Conversations with Picture Book, Middle Grade and YA AuthorsE35: Passion & Purpose: Else B. in the Sea with Jeanne Walker HarveyIn this episode, I’m talking with Jeanne Walker Harvey.
Her love and joy for writing picture book biographies shines through loud and clear in this episode and you’ll catch the energy, I know it.
She’s written multiple picture books that have captured my heart and I’ve used them as personal coaching tools for trying to find my own passion and purpose.
Listen as we talk about how and where she finds her ideas, what her hopes for readers are and a new picture book in the works, too.
You’ll f...2024-06-1441 minKidlit Love: Conversations with Picture Book, Middle Grade and YA AuthorsE34: Kate DiCamillo: FerrisToday, I am grateful and honored to talk with Kate DiCamillo, the award-winning novelist who shares her love of story far and wide to both children and adults alike.
We talk about the timeless nature of her books, her newest book, Ferris, and the moments where we found ourselves in the pages, Kate’s writing routines and even her favorite notebooks. I was completely inspired and love her reading and writing heart even more than before, which I didn’t think was possible.
You’ll find the show notes for the episode with links to all of...2024-06-0741 minKidlit Love: Conversations with Picture Book, Middle Grade and YA AuthorsE33: Dan Gutman: Miss Nichol is in a PickleIn this episode, I’m talking with New York Times best-selling author Dan Gutman.
He’s the author of over 185 books and this month, he is celebrating the 20th anniversary and his 100th book in The Weird School series.
Come listen as Dan I talk all about his Weird School series, the importance of writing funny books that kids will want to read and his newest book coming out soon, too.
You’ll find the show notes for the episode with links to all of the books and resources mentioned right here.
Join m...2024-06-0332 minKidlit Love: Conversations with Picture Book, Middle Grade and YA AuthorsE32: Lauren Castillo: Just Like MillieIn this episode, I’m chatting with Caldecott Honor winner Lauren Castillo. She’s authored and/or illustrated a long list of books we love including What Happens on Wednesday, This is a Story, Nana in the City, Our Friend Hedgehog and many, many more.
Today, we’re taking a closer look at her newest book: Just Like Millie. This book is an ode to introverts and their four-legged friends that help show them what’s possible.
Come listen as we talk about how Lauren’s career got started, the inspiration behind Just Like Millie and how she...2024-05-3138 minKidlit Love: Conversations with Picture Book, Middle Grade and YA AuthorsE31: Suma Subramaniam and Tara Anand: My Name is as Long as a RiverIn this episode, I’m talking with Suma Subramaniam and Tara Anand, the author and illustrator team that came together to create My Name is as Long as a River.
It’s a stunning picture book celebrating the power of names, the history behind them and why they matter to who we are.
Come listen as we talk about Suma’s inspiration for the book, how Tara brought the story to life in the most stunning ways and how readers might use the book as a way to connect and reconnect with their names, too.
Yo...2024-05-2428 minKidlit Love: Conversations with Picture Book, Middle Grade and YA AuthorsE30: Omar Abed & Hatem Aly: The Book That Almost RhymedFor the first time in KidLit Love history, I’m talking to both the author and illustrator of the same book at the same time!
Omar Abed and Hatem Aly are here to discuss their new picture book: The Book That Almost Rhymed.
This is a delightful picture book filled with imagination and wonder, sibling relationships and the reminder that things might not always be as they seem…they could be even better. The illustrations are brilliant and the twist at the end had me speechless with glee.
You’ll find the show notes f...2024-05-1736 minKidlit Love: Conversations with Picture Book, Middle Grade and YA AuthorsE29: Jessica Stremer: Lights Out
Today, I’m talking with Jessica Stremer, an award-winning children’s author who combines her love of science and writing to create books that inspire kids to explore and think critically about the world around them.
She’s written multiple picture books and has a middle grade novel coming out soon, too.
We talk about her picture books, her hope for readers and where she gets her ideas, too.
You’ll find the show notes for the episode with links to all of the books and resources mentioned right here.
Join me...2024-05-1035 minKidlit Love: Conversations with Picture Book, Middle Grade and YA AuthorsE28: Becca Wierwille: Road Trip RescueToday, I’m talking with Becca Wierwille, the author of the loveable, huggable middle grade novel: Road Trip Rescue.
It’s packed with so many middle grade themes: dogs, family, friendship, road trips and love mixed in with a healthy dose of accepting yourself for who you are.
Come listen as Becca and I talk about her purpose for writing, what she hopes readers will get out of her books and her journey to her delightful book series.
You’ll find the show notes for the episode with links to all of the books an...2024-05-0330 minKidlit Love: Conversations with Picture Book, Middle Grade and YA AuthorsE27: Audrey Perrott: Moo HooIn this episode, I’m talking with Audrey Perrott about her debut picture book: Moo Hoo.
Moo Hoo is a delightful story about a very sweet bull with BIG feelings and it is sure to be loved by both children and adults.
Audrey believes it is her highest responsibility and honor to write for children and writes with both heart and humor, two themes that are quite evident in her books.
Come listen to us talk about her writing journey, her new book and why food and baked good make the perfect pairing. =)
...2024-04-2633 minKidlit Love: Conversations with Picture Book, Middle Grade and YA AuthorsE26: Janet Costa Bates: The Rica Baptista SeriesIn this episode, I am talking with Janet Costa Bates about her new chapter book series following Rica Baptista, a delightful young girl, along with her best friend and extended family.
The books celebrate family and friendship and offer important life lessons that empower readers to embrace who they are. I added both books to my ‘Books I’ve Hugged’ list and cannot wait for the next book in the series to release.
Come listen as we talk about Janet’s writing journey to her chapter book series, the flashes of her own life inside the pages...2024-04-1936 minKidlit Love: Conversations with Picture Book, Middle Grade and YA AuthorsE25: Rachel Vail: If We KissToday, I’m talking with Rachel Vail, author of over 40 books for children spanning delightful picture books, middle grade series and young adult novels, too.
Come listen as we talk about her books, make the hard decision to narrow it down to just one book to take a deeper dive into If We Kiss, a book heading to the theater soon.
You’ll find the show notes for the episode with links to all of the books and resources mentioned right here.
Join me inside my Facebook community for bookish people! There, we talk...2024-04-1250 minKidlit Love: Conversations with Picture Book, Middle Grade and YA AuthorsE24: Natalia Sylvester: A Maleta Full of TreasuresToday, I am talking with award-winning Natalia Sylvester about her picture book: A Maleta Full of Treasures. While this may be her first picture book, she has written multiple adult and young adult novels that I have loved and I am thrilled to talk with her today about the threads between them.
Come listen as we talk about her writing journey, the connections among and between them and why she writes for her own inner child as well as all of her readers.
You’ll find the show notes for the episode with links to all...2024-04-0530 minKidlit Love: Conversations with Picture Book, Middle Grade and YA AuthorsE23: Books to Celebrate Ramadan & the Eid MoonToday, I am talking with Sahtinay Abaza in this bonus episode to celebrate Ramadan and the Eid Moon.
Come listen as we talk about her two picture books: The Ramadan Drummer and The Eid Moon. These books tell the story of the beautiful traditions of Ramadan to learn from and enjoy.
You’ll find the show notes for the episode with links to all of the books and resources mentioned right here.
Join me inside my Facebook community for bookish people! There, we talk about all things books and reading and writing and note...2024-04-0124 minKidlit Love: Conversations with Picture Book, Middle Grade and YA AuthorsE22: Andrew Hacket: Ollie, the Acorn, and the Mighty IdeaAs a book podcaster, one of my favorite things is to help launch new books into the world and celebrate as many book birthdays as I can.
Today, I’m talking with debut author Andrew Hacket. Andrew is an educator who dreamed of writing picture books for a long while and now has THREE coming out in 2024. We talk about his writing journey, his three delightful books and his hopes for readers.
These books will be at the top of my TBR stack for both children AND adults. You don’t want to miss this conv...2024-03-2942 minKidlit Love: Conversations with Picture Book, Middle Grade and YA AuthorsE21: John Schu: Louder Than HungerBook people are the best people and today, I’m talking to one of my favorites: John Schu.
Affectionately known as Mr. Schu online, John is the fiercest, most passionate book advocate I know. He’s been sharing the book love for years as an educator, librarian, Scholastic Book Ambassador and now, as a writer himself.
Come join me as we talk about the power of books and story and celebrate the launch of his powerful new middle grade verse novel: Louder Than Hunger.
You’ll find the show notes for the episode with link...2024-03-2137 minKidlit Love: Conversations with Picture Book, Middle Grade and YA AuthorsE20: Amy Parks: Averill OfflineToday, I’m talking with Amy Parks about her newest middle grade novel: Averil Offline.
Amy is a teacher educator who believes we need to embrace all of the beautiful, complicated sides ourselves and this belief is evident inside her books, especially the one we are discussing today.
Come listen as we talk about her hopes for writing, the important conversations we need to have around digital privacy and even how STEM and notebooks make the perfect pairing. This is a middle grade novel for everyone.
You’ll find the show notes for the ep...2024-03-1526 minKidlit Love: Conversations with Picture Book, Middle Grade and YA AuthorsE19: Nic Yulo: Out of the BlueToday, I’m talking with Nic Yulo, author / illustrator of Patch of Sky and Out of the Blue. Both picture books are delightful, colorful, quench our curiosity and teach us big life-affirming lessons, too.
We talk about Nic’s journey to becoming a picture book author through a series of ‘fortunate detours’, the why behind her writing and the messages she hopes readers walk away with after reading. I know I did. =)
You’ll find the show notes for the episode with links to all of the books and resources mentioned right here.
Join me ins...2024-03-0826 minKidlit Love: Conversations with Picture Book, Middle Grade and YA AuthorsE18: Celebrate Middle Grade March with Afoma UmesiHappy Middle Grade March! Today, I’m celebrating Middle Grade March with a special guest: Afoma Umesi.
Afoma embraces all things middle grade reading and hosts my FAVORITE middile grade blog of all time: Reading Middle Grade.
Today, she joins us to share her story: how middle grade reading became her passion, favorite books she thinks we need to add to our TBR stacks and opportunities to connect with other middle grade readers, too.
You’ll find the show notes for the episode with links to all of the books and resources mentioned right...2024-03-0146 minKidlit Love: Conversations with Picture Book, Middle Grade and YA AuthorsE17: Michelle Knudsen: The Dragon of TrelianToday, I am talking with Michelle Knudsen. Michelle is the author of 50 children’s books: from early readers, board books and picture books to middle grade, young adult and even short stories, too.
While we don’t have enough time to talk about all of her books, we do highlight a few books she’s known best for and take a deeper dive into her middle grade novel trilogy.
We talk about where the ideas for her books come from, how and why a bit of magic appears on her pages and what’s coming up next f...2024-02-2338 minKidlit Love: Conversations with Picture Book, Middle Grade and YA AuthorsE16: Cynthia Harmony: A Flicker of HopeToday, I’m chatting with Cynthia Harmony, author of multiple picture books that celebrate the beauty of multiple languages, the world around us, family and home.
Come listen as we talk about her journey to writing, the threads that ties her books together and take a deep dive into her upcoming release: A Flicker of Hope: A Book of Migration.
You’ll find the show notes for the episode with links to all of the books and resources mentioned right here.
Join me inside my Facebook community for bookish people! There, we talk about a...2024-02-1626 minKidlit Love: Conversations with Picture Book, Middle Grade and YA AuthorsE15: Marisa Quinn: Happy Hands
Today, I am talking with Marisa Quinn about her debut picture book: Happy Hands.
It’s a delightfully loveable story about a young boy who is eager to make friends on his first day of Kindergarten, only to find out that his ‘happy hands’ make that more challenging than he thought
It’s a book that reminds us to stay true to who we are, celebrates the power of friendship and even shows us how to learn and grow in the process, too.
You’ll find the show notes for the episode wit...2024-02-0928 minKidlit Love: Conversations with Picture Book, Middle Grade and YA AuthorsE14: Lizzy Rockwell: It is Time: The Life of a CaterpillarI have a long list of children’s literature authors that I love because their books are amazing. But since starting this podcast, I’ve created another list: authors I love because of their philosophy toward children, toward life and toward writing.
Lizzy Rockwell is at the top of this new list. She has authored and/or illustrated over 35 picture books that are delightful for so many reasons, one of which is the way they capture the natural world and help readers understand how the world, and life, works.
Today, she’s talking about her two new...2024-02-021h 00Kidlit Love: Conversations with Picture Book, Middle Grade and YA AuthorsE13: Taryn Souders: The Mystery of the Radcliffe RiddleI love when books can take me down rabbit holes: delightful journeys driven by curiosity.
Today, I’m talking with Taryn Souders, an author that brought me great delight and knowledge in her most recent book The Mystery of the Radcliffe Riddle.
It’s a book filled with family, friendship, mystery and mischief, too. I learned about historical samplers, the War of Jenkins’ Ear and a whole list of famous architects for the most delightful reason.
Come listen as we explore the book, her backstory and backlist and the power of middle grade helps to...2024-01-2632 minKidlit Love: Conversations with Picture Book, Middle Grade and YA AuthorsE12: Claire Lordon: One in a MillionToday is a day of firsts on the KidLit Love podcast. I’m here with Claire Lordon to talk about the first young adult book to be featured on the podcast AND the first graphic novel, too.
Claire is here to talk about her incredibly powerful graphic memoir: One in a Million.
This book was everything I needed as a teenager battling a chronic illness and Claire and I spent some time talking about the healing power of books and why our stories must be told. You’ll get the backstory on Claire’s health journey...2024-01-1932 minKidlit Love: Conversations with Picture Book, Middle Grade and YA AuthorsE11: Simply Skye with Pamela MorganPicture books have a special place in my reading heart for many reasons and today, we explore the power of picture books to help kids feel seen and explore important topics with their family.
Pamela Morgan is the author of Simply Skye, a book about a non-binary child exploring gender expression and identity through a childhood doll and conversations with her family. As the mother of a non-binary child, Pamela wrote the book she wished she had access to for her child…and now we do.
Listen as we talk about the book and how it c...2024-01-1230 minKidlit Love: Conversations with Picture Book, Middle Grade and YA AuthorsE10: Elly Swartz: Hidden TruthsHave you ever wanted to bottle someone’s energy, passion and enthusiasm so you could have it for yourself?! That’s exactly how I felt after talking with today’s podcast guest. We had such a spirited, enthusiastic conversation around middle grade books and could have talked for hours.
Today, I’m talking with Elly Swartz. She has written multiple well-loved middle grade novels including Finding Perfect, Smart Cookie, Give & Take, Dear Student and her most recent publication: Hidden Truths.
Listen as we explore her book and the themes found inside, the role books can play in s...2024-01-0538 minKidlit Love: Conversations with Picture Book, Middle Grade and YA AuthorsE9: Andrew Eliopulos: Will on the InsideStories are healing. They can help us feel seen, they can help us see a new perspective and they can help us grow through what we go through, too.
Today, I’m talking with Andrew Eliopulos. He’s the author of Will on the Inside, a heartfelt account of one boy’s struggle to figure out who he is on the inside as he battles a health condition that changes everything.
Listen as I talk with Andrew about the book and the big themes found inside, the other books he’s written and how it personall...2023-12-2937 minKidlit Love: Conversations with Picture Book, Middle Grade and YA AuthorsE8: Jessica Vitalis: Coyote QueenI have added another name to my ‘Favorite Middle Grade Authors’ list in my book journal: Jessica Vitalis. She’s written The Wolf’s Curse, The Rabbit’s Curse and Coyote Queen.
Today, we talk about the power of middle grade novels, the appeal of a bit of magic and how books can help us learn so many life lessons. Plus, I learned a new word that describes her writing life: she’s a plantser. You’ll have to listen to find out what that means!
You’ll find the show notes for the episode with links to all...2023-12-2230 minKidlit Love: Conversations with Picture Book, Middle Grade and YA AuthorsE7: Colleen Nelson: The Undercover Book ListI have a special list in my book journal: Books I’ve Hugged.
Yes, I hug my books and I bet many of you do too.
Today, I’m talking to Colleen Nelson, author of The Undercover Book List, the latest middle grade book I hugged because it was that delightful. If you love books and the power they have to help you discover who you really are and to connect with others, then this book is for you.
You’ll find the show notes for the episode with links to all of the bo...2023-12-1539 minKidlit Love: Conversations with Picture Book, Middle Grade and YA AuthorsE6: Leslie Connor: Anybody Here Seen Frenchie?We all have a go-to author: someone who we know will deliver a book we will love each and every time.
Today, I am talking to one of my go-to middle grade authors: Leslie Connor.
Leslie first won my heart with her book Waiting for Normal and then captured it again with Anybody Here Seen Frenchie and A Home for Goddesses and Dogs. Her books are approachable, powerful and delightful, too.
Come listen as we talk about her books inside her beautiful writing cabin and then grab your art supplies because you’ll want...2023-12-0859 minKidlit Love: Conversations with Picture Book, Middle Grade and YA AuthorsE5: Arianne Costner: Confessions of a Class ClownSometimes, we all need a little whimsy in the books we are reading, especially when we are reading middle grade novels.
Today’s guest gives us that whimsy and much, much more. Arianne Costner is here to talk about her two middle grade novels: My Life as a Potato and Confessions of a Class Clown.
Both have lightness and fun along with relatable scenarios and life lessons that can be taken from the page. We talk about her journey to middle grade novelist, the why behind her writing and much more.
You’ll find th...2023-12-0125 minKidlit Love: Conversations with Picture Book, Middle Grade and YA AuthorsE4: Meghan Wilson Duff: How Are You, Verity?Picture books can be powerful tools for learning. They’re beautiful, hint at powerful life lessons and offer opportunities for conversation and sharing.
Today, I am talking with Meghan Wilson Duff. Their debut picture book is titled How Are You, Verity and is a delightful mix of underwater facts, bright illustrations and an exploration into social norms.
You’ll find the show notes for the episode with links to all of the books and resources mentioned right here.
Join me inside my Facebook community for bookish people! There, we talk about all things books...2023-11-2435 minKidlit Love: Conversations with Picture Book, Middle Grade and YA AuthorsE3: James Preller: Exit 13 SeriesToday’s guest knows a thing or two about children’s literature. He’s written over 80 books across multiple topics and formats from The Jigsaw Jones series and Scary Tales to The Courage Test and the Exit 13 series.
James Preller is here to talk about all things children’s literature: the journey he’s taken, the books he’s written, the things he’s now teaching and a sneak peek into his soon-to-be-published books, too.
You’ll find the show notes for the episode with links to all of the books and resources mentioned right here.
Joi...2023-11-171h 05Kidlit Love: Conversations with Picture Book, Middle Grade and YA AuthorsE2: Ann Braden: Opinions and OpossumsIf I could only choose one book as my personal, all-time-favorite middle grade novel, it would be written by the author I’m talking with today: Ann Braden.
Today, I am talking with Ann Braden about all things middle grade: how she started writing, where her ideas come from and what she hopes readers will walk away with, too. We’ll take a deeper dive into her latest book, Opinions and Opossums, a book I think the world needs more than ever.
You’ll find the show notes for the episode with links to all of the...2023-11-1034 minKidlit Love: Conversations with Picture Book, Middle Grade and YA AuthorsE1: Padma Venkatraman: Born Behind BarsI am thrilled to welcome you to the inaugural episode of Kidlit Love!
Today, I am talking with Padma Venkatraman, author of multiple young adult and middle grade novels and novels in verse. We’re talking specifically about her books The Bridge Home and Born Behind Bars, two incredibly powerful novels that stole my heart. We’ll also talk about the other books she’s written, how and why her stories came to be and how books offer readers opportunities to learn compassion for others, too.
You’ll find the show notes for the episode with link...2023-11-0340 minKidlit Love: Conversations with Picture Book, Middle Grade and YA AuthorsE0: Welcome to the Kidlit Love Podcast!Welcome to the Kidlit Love podcast!
In today’s episode, I’m giving you all the details behind the podcast starting with who I am and why I created the podcast. I’ll give you the backstory behind it all, let you know what to expect and offer ways we can connect, too.
Come listen!
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