Shows
The Fina Mendoza MysteriesLosing is Democratic 2025: How to Talk to Kids About January 6th Part OneIt's the fifth anniversary of an attack on the US Capitol by angry voters. As facts become fiction, we are using fiction to share the facts of that January 6th day by viewing events of the day through the eyes of view of the 10-year-old daughter of a member of Congress who was on the House Floor that day. It's designed to help adults talk to children about January 6th. It's based on the Fina Mendoza Mysteries novella "Losing is Democratic" by Kitty Felde, available as an ebook or paperback. The book contains curriculum so you can...
2026-01-0616 min
The Fina Mendoza MysteriesLosing is Democratic Part TwoIt's the fifth anniversary of an attack on the US Capitol by angry voters. As facts become fiction, we are using fiction to share the facts of that January 6th day by viewing events of the day through the eyes of view of the 10-year-old daughter of a member of Congress who was on the House Floor that day. It's designed to help adults talk to children about January 6th. It's based on the Fina Mendoza Mysteries novella "Losing is Democratic" by Kitty Felde, available as an ebook or paperback. The book contains curriculum so you can...
2026-01-0616 min
The Fina Mendoza MysteriesThanksgiving 2024We celebrate Thanksgiving with Fina and the Mendoza family as they leave Washington to visit relatives in Los Angeles. Fina worries that the curse of the Demon Cat will follow them to California. The Fina Mendoza Mysteries follow the adventures of the 10-year-old daughter of a congressman, investigating mysterious animals in the U.S. Capitol. Writer/Producer - Kitty Felde Our cast includes: Amy Solano - Fina Mendoza Monica Vigil - Gabby Raul Garza - Papa Christine Avila - Abuelita Imelda Hinojosa - Tia Cat...
2025-11-2613 min
Honeymoon Road: Pete & Me & our Model TChicago: finding the Walt Disney connectionWe begin our journey on 9-11 in Chicago, home to both Pete and Gert. Cousins Kitty Felde and Marie Felde try to find the houses where they grew up and the church where they got married. Things did not go as planned. You'll find copies of Gert's letters, photos, a road map, as well as music credits and research links at our website: honeymoonroad.com
2025-09-1121 min
Book Club for KidsHoneymoon Road: Pete & Me & our Model TIn 1925, newlyweds Pete and Gert packed up their lives and headed west for California in a Model T Ford. Gert chronicled thejourney in a series of letters. Now, one hundred years later, a pair of cousins Kitty Felde and Marie Felde follow their route to see America through their eyes. Join us on a podcast journey at honeymoonroad.com.
2025-09-1022 min
The Fina Mendoza MysteriesA Special Announcement and a Sneak PreviewToday is the release date for Serpiente en el Césped, the Spanish version of Snake in the Grass, book 3 in The Fina Mendoza Mysteries! That means all three books in the series are now available in both Spanish and English with a free downloadable teacher's guide. We also want to introduce you to the latest podcast from writer and producer Kitty Felde: Honeymoon Road: Pete & Me & our Model T, a road trip podcast. Kitty's grandparents got married 100 years ago and took their honeymoon on a cross country adventure in a classic car. Kitty and cousin Marie Fe...
2025-09-0223 min
Honeymoon Road: Pete & Me & our Model TTrailer for Honeymoon Road: Pete & Me & our Model TIn 1925, newlyweds Pete and Gert packed up their lives and headed west for California in aModel T Ford. Gert chronicled the journey in a series of letters. Now, one hundred years later, a pair of former journalists, cousins Kitty Felde and Marie Felde, follow their grandparents' route to see America through their eyes. Join us on a podcast journey HONEYMOON ROAD: Pete & Me and our Model T.
2025-08-2102 min
Book Club for KidsA Conversation with Varian JohnsonWhat makes a good mystery? We talk to writer Varian Johnson, author of The Parker Inheritance. Kitty Felde, who writes her own mystery series THE FINA MENDOZA MYSTERIES is host.
2025-07-3005 min
Book Club for KidsTOP TEN EPISODES #3: The Parker Inheritance by Varian JohnsonWe're happy to report that the number 3 most popular episode of Book Club for Kids is no mystery...actually, it IS a mystery: Varian Johnson's The Parker Inheritance. Do you love a mystery? Do you love playing detective, looking for clues on every page? This week's novel is about a lot of things – segregation, bullying, and most of all, a family mystery. This week's episode is "The Parker Inheritance" by Varian Johnson. Our readers are from Washington DC's AIM Academy. Actress Sheila Collins is celebrity reader. Kitty Felde is host. And by the way...
2025-07-2321 min
Book Club for KidsA Conversation with Jerry CraftWriter Jerry Craft confesses that he wasn't much of a reader when he was a kid. Kitty Felde is host.
2025-07-0911 min
Book Club for KidsPeter Brown Talks About WritingPeter Brown is both a writer and illustrator. We talk to him about how he plots a story and the teacher he hated who set him on his path to becoming a professional artist. Kitty Felde is host.
2025-06-2508 min
Book Club for KidsA Conversation with Writer Ofir LobelWe speak to Israeli writer Ofir Lobel, author of "101 Ways to Lose Your Homework: the Snotty Snail" about the difference between writing in graphic novels and writing a screenplay for a movie. He also talks about writing in a country at war. Kitty Felde is host.
2025-02-0505 min
Book Club for KidsEpisode 156 - 101 Reasons Why I Lost My Homework Again The Snotty Snail This week, it's a graphic novel with evil twins, lost homework, and a giant snail. Oh, and a talking frog. The book is "101 Reasons Why I Lost My Homework Again: The Snotty Snail" by Ofir Lobel. Our readers are from Valley Beth Shalom Day School in Encino, California. Sportswriter Keith Thursby is celebrity reader. Kitty Felde is host. Favorite Books from Valley Beth Shalom Day School: A Series of Unfortunate Events - Lemony Snicket Harry Potter - JK Rowling Dragon Masters - Tracey West A Girl's Guide to Murder...
2025-01-2921 min
Book Club for KidsElla Enchanted by Gail Carson Levine2025 is a very special year for Book Club for Kids as we celebrate our 10th anniversary! But a different version of the show aired on a local cable channel, LA36, taping episodes at the downtown LA public library. This year, we'll be sharing those conversations once a month and we start with readers from St. Mark's Lutheran School in Hacienda Heights, California discussing Gail Carson Levine's classic take on Cinderella "Ella Enchanted" with host Kitty Felde. You can WATCH this episode on YouTube. Click here.
2025-01-0827 min
Book Club for KidsMost Popular Episode of 2024Everybody wants to go to Paris…especially Nikki Maxwell! Readers from Hollingworth Elementary School discuss the latest entry in Rachel Renée Russell's series. It's Dork Diaries: Tales from a Not-So-Posh Paris Adventure. Rachel and daughter Nikki Russell, who illustrates the books, answer questions from the kids. Our celebrity reader is actress/screenwriter Kate Orsini. Kitty Felde is host.
2024-12-2522 min
Book Club for KidsMarshmallow & Jordan by Alina ChauDid you ever wish that you had a pet elephant? Well, Jordan was lucky enough to find one. That unusual relationship is at the heart of our book Jordan and Marshmallow by Alina Chau. Readers from Atwater Elementary School in Los Angeles discuss disabilities, sports, and Indonesia with host Kitty Felde. Our celebrity reader is NPR's host of "All Things Considered" Ailsa Chang. Favorite Books from Atwater Elementary School: One Piece - Eiichiro Oda The Wild Robot - Peter Brown Dogman - Dav Pilkey Captain Underpants - Dav Pilkey
2024-12-1118 min
The Fina Mendoza MysteriesA Fina Mendoza Mysteries Christmas 2023The Fina Mendoza Mysteries follow the adventures of the 10-year-old daughter of a congressman, investigating mysterious animals in the U.S. Capitol. It's Christmas in Washington, a time to remember family traditions and Capitol Hill traditions. Fina and her sister get a very special opportunity to light the Capitol Christmas Tree. Find out more about the cast at the website. The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast is based on the books Welcome to Washington Fina Mendoza and State of the Union, by Kitty Felde, published by Chesapeakepress.org. Want the Facts Behind the Fiction in Th...
2024-12-0710 min
Book Club for KidsBanned and Challenged Books The Poet X by Elizabeth AcevedoWe continue our series of episodes highlighting banned books. This week, it's Elizabeth Acevedo's novel The Poet X. The novel in verse was challenged in 2020 by parents in North Carolina who argued that the book was unconstitutionally hostile to religion. The challenge was turned down by the courts. It was again challenged in 2023 in Wisconsin because of objections about frank language about sex. In both cases, the books were part of the high school's curriculum. The book is all about poetry and body image and standing up for yourself. It's the National Book Award winning novel The Po...
2024-12-0424 min
Book Club for KidsLive from Las Vegas Book Festival - "Stranded" by Nikki Shannon SmithReaders from Las Vegas are live, onstage at the Las Vegas Book Festival, talking about Nikki Shannon Smith's tale of adventure Stranded. Award-winning journalist Rita Pardue from KUNV is celebrity reader. Taped before a live audience, readers have lots of questions for writer Nikki Shannon Smith. Kitty Felde is host. FAVORITE BOOKS FROM THE LAS VEGAS BOOK FESTIVAL: The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane - Kate DiCamillo Cleopatra in Space - Mike Maihack Harry Potter - J.K. Rowling Wings of Fire - Tui T. Sutherland ...
2024-11-1335 min
Book Club for KidsThe Okay Witch by Emma SteinkellnerDid you ever think you were a little different than everybody else in school? Suppose you found out there's a reason for that and that reason is that you're actually a witch. That's the story of "The Okay Witch," by Emma Steinkellner. Students from Virginia Road Elementary School in Los Angeles discuss the graphic novel and interview Emma. Actress Diane Adair is celebrity reader. Kitty Felde is host. www.bookclubforkids.org Favorite Books from Virginia Road Elementary School in LA: Ghosts (Fantasmas) - Raina Telegemeier The Spiderwick Chronicles - Tony DiTerlizzi
2024-10-3022 min
The Fina Mendoza MysteriesCelebrating Dia de los MuertosThe Fina Mendoza Mysteries follow the adventures of the 10-year-old daughter of a congressman, investigating mysteries in the U.S. Capitol...and teaching civics along the way. Join the Mendoza family as they celebrate not only Halloween, but also Dia de los Muertos. Here's a link to the FREE curriculum for this episode. You'll find more eductional materials on our Facts Behind the Fiction blog at the website. The Fina Mendoza Mysteries are based on the novels WELCOME TO WASHINGTON FINA MENDOZA and STATE OF THE UNION, written by Kitty Felde.
2024-10-2808 min
The Fina Mendoza MysteriesS2; EPISODE 18 - SEASON FINALE - The Message from ChickcharneyThe Fina Mendoza Mysteries follow the adventures of the 10-year-old daughter of a congressman, investigating mysterious animals in the U.S. Capitol. In Episode 18, all of Washington is talking about the capture of the Burrowing Owl that pooped on the president during the State of the Union address. But not about Fina. Papa's political fundraiser with LA food trucks seems to be a huge success. And Fina gets a very special letter. Want to know the Facts Behind the Fiction in this episode? This week, we highlight some of the more creative political fundraising events...
2024-10-2615 min
Book Club for KidsEpisode 76 - The Meringue Witches by Isora Morales SuarezThis episode began with a chance meeting in a tiny art gallery in the city of Cienfuegos, Cuba. Writer Isora Morales Suarez was minding the store to pay the bills, but just had her first novel for kids published in English. The Girlfriends Book Club Baltimore discuss her unusual fairy tale The Meringue Witches with host Kitty Felde. Cuban ex-pat Adolfo Nodal is celebrity reader.
2024-10-2319 minThe Fina Mendoza MysteriesTracking the Bird that Pooped on the PresidentThe Fina Mendoza Mysteries follow the adventures of the 10-year-old daughter of a congressman, investigating mysterious animals in the U.S. Capitol. In Episode 17, Fina and her loyal canine companion Senator Something track down Chickcharney in one of the U.S. Capitol's parking garages. But will Fina learn the bird's secret message? Want to know the Facts Behind the Fiction in this episode? This week, we explain what's up with the construction in the Rayburn Garage. The Fina Mendoza Mysteries are written and produced by Kitty Felde. Our cast includes:
2024-10-1914 min
Book Club for KidsA Conversation with MC RyderWriter MC Ryder talks about writing song lyrics and middle grade book series with host Kitty Felde.
2024-10-1605 minThe Fina Mendoza MysteriesIt's All Happening at the ZooThe Fina Mendoza Mysteries follow the adventures of the 10-year-old daughter of a congressman, investigating mysterious animals in the U.S. Capitol. In Episode 16, Fina's investigation takes her to the National Zoo where she finds out more about the Burrowing Owls. But Fina's client Monica suffers a major setback. Want to know the Facts Behind the Fiction in this episode? This week, we explain Congressional Subpeonas. The Fina Mendoza Mysteries are written and produced by Kitty Felde. Our cast includes: Amy Solano - Fina Mendoza Steven Cuevas...
2024-10-1216 min
Book Club for KidsThe Darkest Side of the Moon by MC Ryder It's that time of year: Halloween! This week, we tackle M.C. Ryder's tale of romance, betrayal, and creatures of the night The Darkest Side of the Moon. Journalist and actress Hettie Lynne Hurtes is our celebrity reader. Our readers are from Rosecrans Elementary School in Compton, California. Kitty Felde is host. NOTE: There are some plot spoilers. Favorite Books from Rosecrans Elementary School: Attack on Titan - Hajime Isayama Because of Winn Dixie - Kate DiCamillo Harry Potter - J.K. Rowling Beyond the Stor...
2024-10-0918 minThe Fina Mendoza MysteriesAbuelita Come Home!The Fina Mendoza Mysteries follow the adventures of the 10-year-old daughter of a congressman, investigating mysteries in the U.S. Capitol. Fina uses her detecting skills to help her father find her grandmother who has run away from home. Their search takes them to a church basement kitchen. Want to know more about the Facts Behind the Fiction? This week, our blog takes a look at a Congressional Work Week. How much does Congress really work? Our cast includes: Amy Solano - Fina Mendoza Steven Cuevas - Papa
2024-10-0513 minThe Fina Mendoza MysteriesSolving the Mysteries of Fractions and ChickcharneyThe Fina Mendoza Mysteries follow the adventures of the 10-year-old daughter of a congressman, investigating mysteries in the U.S. Capitol. Fina discovers some important clues about the mysterious bird that pooped on the president. Her teacher helps her solve some difficult math problems. And Fina tries to solve the mysteries of dogs. The Fina Mendoza Mysteries are written and produced by Kitty Felde. In Episode 14, Congressman Arturo Mendoza scolds his mother for participating in an immigration protest at the U.S. Capitol - and then going on TV to talk about it...
2024-09-2816 min
Book Club for KidsThe book behind the movie: The Wild Robot by Peter BrownPeter Brown's wonderful book is now a movie! This week,we return to the source material. Do you have a relationship with the robot in your life? You'll fall in love with "The Wild Robot" by Peter Brown. 4th graders from Flora Hendley Elementary School in Washington, D.C. discuss artificial intelligence and their own favorite robotic devices. U.S. Congressman Scott Peters from San Diego is celebrity reader. Kitty Felde is host. Favorite Books from Flora Hendley Elemetary School: Diary of a Wimpy Kid - Jeff Kinney Dork Diaries- Rachel...
2024-09-2523 minThe Fina Mendoza MysteriesFamily FeudThe Fina Mendoza Mysteries follow the adventures of the 10-year-old daughter of a congressman, investigating mysteries in the U.S. Capitol. Fina's father and grandmother have an enormous fight with serious consequences. And there's nothing Fina can do about it. In Episode 13, Congressman Arturo Mendoza scolds his mother for participating in an immigration protest at the U.S. Capitol - and then going on TV to talk about it. Is it illegal for the relative of a member of Congress to protest in front of the U.S. Capitol? Click HERE...
2024-09-2119 minThe Fina Mendoza MysteriesSeason 2 Episode 12 - Protesting 101The Fina Mendoza Mysteries follow the adventures of the 10-year-old daughter of a congressman, investigating mysteries in the U.S. Capitol. Fina's grandmother takes her to a meeting where an immigration reform protest is being organized. Abuelita's activism results in a major dispute with her son, Congressman Arturo Mendoza after she's nearly arrested outside the U.S. Capitol. Protests outside the U.S. Capitol are nothing new. Click HERE to read about the history of protests outside the U.S. Capitol in our Facts Behind the Fiction blog. Cast: Am...
2024-09-1413 minThe Fina Mendoza MysteriesSeason 2 Episode 11 - Congressional Art Competition and the hunt for ChickcharneyThe Fina Mendoza Mysteries follow the adventures of the 10-year-old daughter of a congressman, investigating mysteries in the U.S. Capitol. Fina is on the hunt for Chickcharney in the basement of the U.S. Capitol, but the hunt leads to some serious consequences. In Episode 11 of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast, Fina is wandering around the tunnel that connects the U.S. Capitol with the House office buildings and says: "That's funny. I never noticed that before. One side of the Cannon tunnel has all that high school art. They're not very g...
2024-09-0709 min
Book Club for KidsA Conversation with Charles WatersWe talk to writer Charles Waters about his life as an actor and how it led to his life as a poet and children's book writer. He also talks about how the Highlights Foundation changed his life. Kitty Felde is host.
2024-09-0406 minThe Fina Mendoza MysteriesNo More Church ShoppingThe Fina Mendoza Mysteries follow the adventures of the 10-year-old daughter of a congressman, investigating mysteries in the U.S. Capitol. The Mendoza family finally find a church that feels like home. And Abuelita finds a new community of activists. And Gabby gets her phone back. Meanwhile, Fina is not happy with her new detecting partner St. Sebastian. He's a bird dog and easily distracted. But Fina has a breakthrough in her investigation of the bird that pooped on the head of the President. In Episode 10 of Season 2 of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries...
2024-08-3114 min
Book Club for KidsMascot by Charles Waters and Traci SorellWhat do you do when your long-time school mascot is offensive to others? That's the topic in Mascot by Charles Waters and Traci Sorell. Students from Eliot-Hine Middle School discuss the novel and interview the writer. California State Los Angeles theater professor Carolyn Dunn is celebrity reader. Kitty Felde is host. Favorite Books from Eliot-Hine: Stunt Boy - Jason Reynolds The Falling Sword - Ben Kane The Firekeeper's Daughter - Angeline Boulley Keeper of the Lost Cities - Shannon Messenger Cat's Cradle - Kurt Vonnegut ...
2024-08-2822 minThe Fina Mendoza MysteriesBird Dogs and InstagramThe Fina Mendoza Mysteries follow the adventures of the 10-year-old daughter of a congressman, investigating mysteries in the U.S. Capitol. Fina enlists the help of an expert as she continues the search for the bird that pooped on the President: a bird dog. Meanwhile, Gabby's in the doghouse for posting selfies on Instagram. In episode 9 of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries, Fina and her family spot a familiar face at Sunday mass: the House Chaplain. Who's the House Chaplain? How Long have we had one? Click HERE to read more about...
2024-08-2416 minThe Fina Mendoza MysteriesSnowmozilla!The Fina Mendoza Mysteries follow the adventures of the 10-year-old daughter of a congressman, investigating mysteries in the U.S. Capitol. All of Washington is shut down for the storm of the century. Meanwhile, Californians Fina and her sister Gabby learn the joys...and the downsides of snow. In Episode 8 of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries, Fina asks: Is there anything in the paper about the bird that pooped on the president, Papa? PAPA: Not a word. The news cycle has moved on. What's a news cycle? Click...
2024-08-1716 minThe Fina Mendoza MysteriesBird MythsThe Fina Mendoza Mysteries follow the adventures of the 10-year-old daughter of a congressman, investigating mysteries in the U.S. Capitol. Fina continues her investigation into finding the bird that pooped on the President. And she gets a new client: the dog that belongs to the House Chaplain. Meanwhile, Washington DC and the Mendoza family prepare for a blizzard. In Episode 7, Fina's sister Gabby suggests that she do some bird research at the website of the Audubon Society. Fina stumbles upon an article that says if a bird poops on your head, it's supposed to...
2024-08-1015 minBook Club for KidsLive Onstage at the City of Stem LA Maker FaireWe invited kids onstage at the City of Stem LA Maker Faire with host Kitty Felde to tell the audience about their favorite books: Wings of Fire - Tui T. Sutherland Dork Diaries - Rachel Renee Russell Zoey and Sassafras - Asia Citro Go Team Spidey - Steve Behling The Secret Series - Pseudonymous Bosch
2024-08-0708 minThe Fina Mendoza MysteriesGang of EightThe Fina Mendoza Mysteries follow the adventures of the 10-year-old daughter of a congressman, investigating mysteries in the U.S. Capitol. Fina is still on the hunt for the bird that pooped on the President. Fina's father was just named to a bipartisan group of lawmakers to come up with an immigration bill. Unfortunately, Senator Something wasn't invited, but he manages to disrupt the press conference announcing the group. Meanwhile, Fina's older sister Gabby is fighting with their grandmother over a dance and a dress code. What's the latest on immigration reform in...
2024-08-0314 minThe Fina Mendoza MysteriesEagles EverywhereThe Fina Mendoza Mysteries follow the adventures of the 10-year-old daughter of a congressman, investigating mysteries in the U.S. Capitol. All of Washington is on the hunt for the bird that pooped on the President - including Fina Mendoza. Social media is having a field day. There's even a hashtag: PoopOnPOTUS. In episode 5 of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast, everyone assumes the bird that pooped on the President is an eagle. Fina's 4th grade class is even assigned a homework project: find all the eagles in Washington, DC. Where are all the e...
2024-07-2720 minBook Club for KidsSummer Reading Suggestions from the City of Stem LA Maker FaireIts that time of year…summer reading programs at libraries are offering lots and lots of thank you gifts for reading books. But how hard is it to find a book you'll love? No worries. We went out the the City of Stem/LA Maker Faire to ask the experts for their book suggestions. Cleopatra in Space - Mike Maihack Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Az and the prisoner of azkaban- J.K. Rowling Harry Potter and the Sorcerers Stone - J.K. Rowling The Skull - J...
2024-07-2406 minThe Fina Mendoza MysteriesState of the Union Speeches and other SquawkingThe Fina Mendoza Mysteries follow the adventures of the 10-year-old daughter of a congressman, investigating mysteries in the U.S. Capitol. A mysterious bird poops on the president's head during the State of the Union address and Fina and her grandmother are up in the House Gallery, watching when it happens. Papa gives the State of the Union rebuttal speech about immigration reform. The House Minority Leader gives a party. Kitty Felde is writer producer. In Episode 4, after the President delivers his State of the Union speech to Congress, Papa delivers the rebuttal in Spanish.
2024-07-2016 minThe Fina Mendoza MysteriesPigeon Peas and Sewing LessonsThe Fina Mendoza Mysteries follow the adventures of the 10-year-old daughter of a congressman, investigating mysteries in the U.S. Capitol. Fina decides to take the case of the mysterious Chickcharney... maybe it has a secret message for her! In Episode 3, Papa proposes an idea for a fundraiser for his re-election campaign. "It takes a lot of money to run for Congress," he says. How much does it cost to run for Congress? Click HERE to read more about the House Chaplain in our Facts Behind the Fiction blog. S...
2024-07-1311 min
Book Club for KidsA Conversation with Christopher Paul CurtisWe talk to Newbery Award winning writer Christopher Paul Curtis about where "The Watsons Go to Birmingham - 1963" came from and why he finally quit his day job. Kitty Felde is host.
2024-07-1008 minThe Fina Mendoza MysteriesS2; EPISODE 2 - Senator Something Joins the HuntThe Fina Mendoza Mysteries follow the adventures of the 10-year-old daughter of a congressman, investigating mysteries in the U.S. Capitol. Fina's grandmother finally arrives in Washington, but she seems more excited about seeing a statue of her hero: Ronald Reagan. Meanwhile, Fina enlists the talents of her detecting partner, a big orange dog named Senator Something. Abuelita wants is a picture with that statue of Ronald Reagan. He was the president who signed into law IRCA, the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986 - the last time Congress passed major immigration reform. "It's because...
2024-07-0614 minThe Fina Mendoza MysteriesSTATE OF THE UNION Episode 1:The Bird with the Lizard TailThe Fina Mendoza Mysteries follow the adventures of the 10-year-old daughter of a congressman, investigating mysteries in the U.S. Capitol. Fina has a new case: find the mysterious Chickcharney, a mythical bird from the Caribbean, for her friend Monica who works in the snack bar. Monica describes Chickcharney as a bird from the island of Andros in the Bahamas that has a "round face, a sharp beak, long legs, and a skinny, curly tail." The tail of a lizard. Do Chickcharney's actually exist? Click HERE to read more about Chickcharney...
2024-06-2914 min
Book Club for KidsA Conversation with Yona Zeldis McDonoughWe talk to writer Yona Zeldis McDonough about ballet and how to write a good rejection letter. Kitty Felde is host.
2024-06-1908 min
Book Club for KidsThe Bicycle Spy by Yona Zeldis McDonoughThis week, we travel back to occupied France during World War II for a tale of bravery and bread. Students from Jefferson Middle School Academy in Washington, D.C. discuss Yona Zeldis McDonough's novel The Bicycle Spy. Our celebrity reader Gwen Deglise Moore has been knighted by the French government for her work in cinema. Kitty Felde is host. Favorite Books from Jefferson Academy
2024-06-1222 min
Book Club for KidsYour Favorite Book Phone Calls Part OneWhat if you want to be on the Book Club for Kids podcast and you don't live in a city near DC or LA? No problem. You can just call us and tell us about your favorite book, just like these kids from around the country. Information about where to call and what to say at the end of the episode. Kitty Felde is host. Favorite Books: Sarafina and the Black Cloak - Robert Beatty The Cat I Never Named - Amra Sabic-el-Rayess & Laura L. Sullivan Diary of Wimpy Kid: Rodrick R...
2024-06-0506 min
Book Club for KidsA Conversation with Beth LincolnWriter Beth Lincoln talks about how her debut novel The Swifts came to life and the difference between audiences for middle grade novels in the U.S. compared to Great Britain. Kitty Felde is host.
2024-05-2907 min
Book Club for KidsEpisode 150 The Swifts: a Dictionary of Scoundrels by Beth LincolnDo our names define us? We celebrate our 150th episode with readers at the Artesia branch of the LA County Public Library discuss Beth Lincoln's tale of a family whose names come from the dictionary. Our celebrity reader is LA County Supervisor Janice Hahn. Kitty Felde is host. Favorite Books from the Artesia branch of the LA County Library: The Lemonade War - Jacqueline Davies Restart - Gordon Korman Spy x Family - Tatsuya Endo Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory - Roald Dahl Counting b...
2024-05-2224 min
Book Club for KidsCity of Stem Favorite Books 2024Favorite Books from the City of Stem LA Maker Faire 2024: Wings of Fire: Winter Turning - Tui T. Sutherland A Wrinkle in Time - Madeline L'Engle Harry Potter - J.K. Rowling Charlie and the Chocolate Factory - Roald Dahl If You Give a Mouse a Cookie - Laura Numeroff The Bad Guys - Aaron Blabey Lunch Lady and the Schoolwide Shuffle - Jarrett J. Krosoczka We have HUNDREDS of book suggestions from young readers at the website. Kitty Felde is h...
2024-05-1506 min
Book Club for KidsA Conversation with Rachel Renée and Nikki Russell, the team behind Dork DiariesHow do you work with your mother on a book? How do you work on 15 books with your mother? We talk to the mother/daughter team behind Dork Diaries, Rachel Renée and Nikki Russell. Kitty Felde is host.
2024-04-2409 min
Book Club for KidsDork Diaries by Rachel Renée RussellEverybody wants to go to Paris…especially Nikki Maxwell! Readers from Hollingworth Elementary School discuss the latest entry in Rachel Renée Russell's series. It's Dork Diaries: Tales from a Not-So-Posh Paris Adventure. Rachel and daughter Nikki Russell, who illustrates the books, answer questions from the kids. Our celebrity reader is actress/screenwriter Kate Orsini. Kitty Felde is host.
2024-04-1722 min
Book Club for KidsChallenged Books - A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L'Engle We continue our series of episodes about books that have been banned or challenged around the country. This time, it's the Newbery Award winning novel by Madeleine L'Engle: A Wrinkle in Time. According to the Carnegie Mellon Banned Books Project, the book was challenged in 1985 by parents in Florida who said the book "opposes Christian beliefs and teaches occult practices. The school principal did not remove the book from 4th grade curriculum. In 1990, a parent in Alabama asked to have the book removed because it "sends a mixed signal to children about good and evil."...
2024-04-0325 minBook Club for KidsA Conversation with John ChoYou may know John Cho from his acting work in "Star Trek" and "Harold and Kumar" movies. But listen to this thoughtful conversation Cho and host Kitty Felde about his work as a writer - including convincing his Korean immigrant parents that his work was his work as an artist was making the world a better place.
2024-03-2008 min
Book Club for KidsTroublemaker by John Cho On April 29th, 1992, a jury in Simi Valley, a town just north of Los Angeles, did not convict four LAPD officers for the beating of an African American motorist named Rodney King. Within hours, rioting broke out across the city. A particular target was liquor and convenience stores owned by Korean immigrants. The event is at the heart of actor and writer John Cho's novel Troublemaker. Cho joins us to talk about his inspiration for the book and LAPD Officer Tony Hyong Im is our celebrity reader. Readers from Tyler Elementary School in Washington D.C. discuss t...
2024-03-1317 min
The Fina Mendoza MysteriesFina Mendoza Goes to the State of the Union AddressOn Thursday night, March 7th, members of Congress from the House and Senate will hear a speech from President Biden about the State of the Union. Our Founding Fathers thought the annual speech to Congress was so important, they put it in the Constitution. But what IS the State of the Union address? And what's it like to be inside the U.S. Capitol, sitting in the House Gallery, above the lawmakers and Supreme Court Justices and the cabinet? In this special bonus episode of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries, we take you to the State of...
2024-03-0119 min
Book Club for KidsBanned Books Divergent by Veronica RothWe continue our Banned Books series, airing episodes that have been banned or challenged around the country. This week, it's Vernica Roth's dystopian adventure Divergent. Back in 2015, Ashland High School in Oregon banned Divergent because – according to the school's online newspaper - the book "shows a girl fighting against society which we do not want to strengthen." What do you think? Give a listen to our discussion of Veronica Roth's Divergent. We venture into a dystopian universe created by writer Veronica Roth. Divergent is a tale about finding out where you fit in – and whether you're brave enou...
2024-02-1423 min
The Fina Mendoza MysteriesA Conversation with Claribel OrtegaAre you a fantasy lover? Writer Claribel Ortega talks about why she loves to write fantasy - especially witches. Kitty Felde is host. And give a listen to our Dia de los Muertos episode of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast. Here's a link to the free curriculum guide.
2023-10-3103 min
The Fina Mendoza MysteriesWitchlings by Claribel OrtegaDo witches have cliques? What happens when you're an outcast? Would you be brave enough to hunt down monsters? Students at Brookland Middle School in Washington, DC discuss Claribel Ortega's novel Witchlings. Veteran journalist Stephanie Roberts is our celebrity reader. Kitty Felde his host. Want to learn more about Dia de los Muertos? Listen to this special episode from our sister podcast THE FINA MENDOZA MYSTERIES. There is free curriculum for this episode. Favorite Books from Brookland Middle School: Judy B Jones series - Barbara Park Best Babysitters Ever - Caroline C...
2023-10-2522 minThe Fina Mendoza MysteriesCase Closed!Fina ties up loose ends in the case of the mystery of the Demon Cat of Capitol Hill and experiences her first Christmas in Washington, DC. Writer/Producer - Kitty Felde Our cast includes: Amy Solano - Fina Mendoza Monica Vigil - Gabby Raul Garza - Papa Laura Stegman - Congresswoman Mitchell Imelda Hinojosa - Tia Catalina Steve Gamber - John the Staffer Linda Graves - Claudia Paul Cummings - Carl Jefferson Wenzel Jones - Statue of Caesa...
2023-07-2719 minThe Fina Mendoza MysteriesThanksgiving in CaliforniaThe Mendoza family heads to Los Angeles to celebrate Thanksgiving. Fina worries that the curse of the Demon Cat will follow them to California. Writer/Producer - Kitty Felde Our cast includes: Amy Solano - Fina Mendoza Monica Vigil - Gabby Raul Garza - Papa Christine Avila - Abuelita Imelda Hinojosa - Tia Catalina Rachel Desztich - Tia Margarita Brian Bland - Veteran Steve DeVorkin - Senator Something Associate Producer - Hannah Matzecki Associate S...
2023-07-2016 minThe Fina Mendoza Mysteries"Cat"astrophe!Fina continues to investigate the history of cats in the U.S. Capitol. Papa returns to Washington for a family meal. But then catastrophe strikes. Can the Demon Cat be to blame? The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast is written and produced by Kitty Felde Our cast includes: Amy Solano - Fina Mendoza Monica Vigil - Gabby Raul Garza - Papa Mat Kaplan - House Historian Steve Gamber - John the Staffer Brian Bland - Capitol Tour Guide Rosalie Fox - Veterinarian
2023-07-1317 minThe Fina Mendoza MysteriesYou Guys Need to Get Out of the HouseFina and Gabby join Claudia at the National Zoo where Fina gathers clues. The Mendoza sisters also celebrate Dia de los Muertos - the Day of the Dead. And Fina comes up with a plan. The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast is written and produced by Kitty Felde Our cast includes: Amy Solano as Fina Mendoza Monica Vigil as Gabby Linda Graves as Claudia Christine Avila as Abuelita And Steve DeVorkin as Senator Something Associate Producer - Hannah Matzecki Associate Sound Designer - H...
2023-07-0616 min
The Fina Mendoza MysteriesWe Need BrowniesIt's the return of Fina Mendoza! To celebrate the re-release of the book that inspired the podcast: Welcome to Washington Fina Mendoza (Chesapeake Press) in English AND Spanish, listen to how it all began. Here's a hint of what's to come. Fina and Gabby get ready for Halloween without Papa and Abuelita. Fina discovers some of the backstory of the Demon Cat of Capitol Hill. The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast is written and produced by Kitty Felde. Our cast includes: Amy Solano - Fina Mendoza Monica Vigil - Ga...
2023-06-2919 min
The Fina Mendoza MysteriesThe Curse of the Demon CatIt's the return of Fina Mendoza! To celebrate the re-release of the book that inspired the podcast: Welcome to Washington Fina Mendoza (Chesapeake Press) in English AND Spanish, listen to how it all began. Here's a hint of what's to come. Bad luck seems to haunt the Mendoza family. Fina is convinced that the mythical Demon Cat of Capitol Hill is to blame. Fina starts detecting and discovers an important clue. Writer/Producer - Kitty Felde Our cast includes: Amy Solano - Fina Mendoza Monica Vigil - Gab...
2023-06-2217 min
The Fina Mendoza MysteriesIf You Want a Friend in WashingtonIt's the return of Fina Mendoza! To celebrate the re-release of the book that inspired the podcast: Welcome to Washington Fina Mendoza (Chesapeake Press) in English AND Spanish, listen to how it all began. Here's a hint of what's to come. Fina meets a new friend and gets a new job and a new identity: lady detective. Writer/Producer - Kitty Felde Our cast includes: Amy Solano - Fina Mendoza Monica Vigil - Gabby Raul Garza - Papa Linda Graves - Claudia Indi...
2023-06-1516 min
The Fina Mendoza MysteriesWelcome to Washington Fina MendozaIt's the return of Fina Mendoza! To celebrate the re-release of the book that inspired the podcast: Welcome to Washington Fina Mendoza (Chesapeake Press) in English AND Spanish, listen to how it all began. Here's a hint of what's to come. Meet Fina Mendoza. She spends her after school hours in the U.S. Capitol where her father is a congressman. While hunting down a lost sweatshirt in the Capitol Crypt, Fina stumbles over a mysterious creature. Is it the ghost of George Washington? Or perhaps the Demon Cat of Capitol Hill? The F...
2023-06-0818 minThe Fina Mendoza MysteriesThe State of the Union Address 2023On Tuesday night, February 7th, members of Congress from the House and Senate will hear a speech from President Biden about the State of the Union. Our Founding Fathers thought the annual speech to Congress was so important, they put it in the Constitution. But what IS the State of the Union address? And what's it like to be inside the U.S. Capitol, sitting in the House Gallery, above the lawmakers and Supreme Court Justices and the cabinet? In this special bonus episode of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries, we take you to the State o...
2023-01-3016 minThe Fina Mendoza MysteriesLosing is Democratic: Explaining January 6th to KidsHow do you explain the events of January 6th to children? This special Fina Mendoza Mysteries episode is designed to help parents and teachers talk to young people about the attack on the U.S. Capitol two years ago and what larger lessons can be learned. FREE curriculum for this episode can be downloaded here. There is a NEW e-book version of Losing is Democratic available for 99 cents on Amazon. The episode takes place on January 6th, 2021, in a zoom classroom, meeting remotely because of the pandemic. Our 10-year-old detective Fina...
2023-01-0518 minThe Fina Mendoza MysteriesThanksgiving 2022We celebrate Thanksgiving with Fina and the Mendoza family as they leave Washington to visit relatives in Los Angeles. Fina worries that the curse of the Demon Cat will follow them to California. The Fina Mendoza Mysteries follow the adventures of the 10-year-old daughter of a congressman, investigating mysterious animals in the U.S. Capitol. Writer/Producer - Kitty Felde Our cast includes: Amy Solano - Fina Mendoza Monica Vigil - Gabby Raul Garza - Papa Christine Avila - Abuelita Imelda Hinojosa - Tia Cat...
2022-11-1513 min
The Fina Mendoza MysteriesDia de los MuertosThe Fina Mendoza Mysteries follow the adventures of the 10-year-old daughter of a congressman, investigating mysterious animals in the U.S. Capitol. Join the Mendoza family as they celebrate not only Halloween, but also Dia de los Muertos. Here's a link to curriculum for the episode. You'll find more eductional materials on our Facts Behind the Fiction blog at the website. The Fina Mendoza Mysteries are written and produced by Kitty Felde. Our cast includes: Amy Solano - Fina Mendoza Monica Vigil - Monica Ch...
2022-10-2508 minThe Fina Mendoza MysteriesLet Kids Vote Part TwoThe Fina Mendoza Mysteries follow the adventures of the 10-year-old daughter of a congressman, investigating mysterious animals in the U.S. Capitol. It's a new school year for Fina Mendoza, another year of distance learning. Her teacher assigns a Genius Project, letting students pick the topic they'd like to research and present to the class. Since it's an election year and Fina's congressman father is back in California campaigning for re-election, Fina decides to research voting. Specifically, letting kids younger than 18 cast a ballot. Real-life Congressman Mark Takano of Riverside, California zooms with the class t...
2022-10-1819 minThe Fina Mendoza MysteriesLet Kids Vote! Part OneThe Fina Mendoza Mysteries follow the adventures of the 10-year-old daughter of a congressman, investigating mysterious animals in the U.S. Capitol. It's a new school year for Fina Mendoza, another year of distance learning. Her teacher assigns a Genius Project, letting students pick the topic they'd like to research and present to the class. Since it's an election year and Fina's congressman father is back in California campaigning for re-election, Fina decides to research voting. Specifically, letting kids younger than 18 cast a ballot. Real-life Congressman Mark Takano of Riverside, California zooms with the class t...
2022-10-1120 minThe Fina Mendoza MysteriesMeet Steve DeVorkin who plays Senator Something and Fr. AndrewThe Fina Mendoza Mysteries follow the adventures of the 10-year-old daughter of a congressman, investigating mysterious animals in the U.S. Capitol. Actor Steve DeVorkin channels our big orange dog Senator Something on the show. But this season, he also tackles another role: the House Chaplain Fr. Andrew. Find out more about the cast at the website. Find out the facts behind the fiction in The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast. Season 2 of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast is based on the book State of the Union, by Kitty Felde, published by Chesa...
2022-10-0410 minThe Fina Mendoza MysteriesMeet Fina Mendoza, Actress Amy SolanoThe Fina Mendoza Mysteries follow the adventures of the 10-year-old daughter of a congressman, investigating mysterious animals in the U.S. Capitol. Actress Amy Solano plays Fina Mendoza. And here's a secret: she's not really a 10-year-old girl. Find out more about the cast at the website. Find out the facts behind the fiction in The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast. Season 2 of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast is based on the book State of the Union, by Kitty Felde, published by Chesapeake Press. You can get an autographed copy of State of the...
2022-09-2711 minThe Fina Mendoza MysteriesMeet Gabby Mendoza, played by Monica VigilThe Fina Mendoza Mysteries follow the adventures of the 10-year-old daughter of a congressman, investigating mysterious animals in the U.S. Capitol. In real life, actress Monica Vigil is a brand new third grade teacher. On The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast, she plays Fina Mendoza's older sister Gabby. Monica talks about her character in Season 2 and her real-life relationship with actress Amy Solano who plays Fina. Find out more about the cast at the website. Find out the facts behind the fiction in The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast. Season 2 of The Fin...
2022-09-2010 minThe Fina Mendoza MysteriesSteven Cuevas on Papa the CongressmanThe Fina Mendoza Mysteries follow the adventures of the 10-year-old daughter of a congressman, investigating mysterious animals in the U.S. Capitol. Steven Cuevas spends much of his time as a public radio journalist, interviewing politicians. In The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast, he plays a politician, Congressman Arturo Mendoza of California's 34th congressional district. Steven talks to writer/producer Kitty Felde about his character and real-life politicians LA City Attorney Mike Feuer and LA Mayor Eric Garcetti. Want to know the Facts Behind the Fiction in The Fina Mendoza Mysteries? Check out our blog.
2022-09-1310 minThe Fina Mendoza MysteriesMeet Abuelita: Actress Christina AvilaThe Fina Mendoza Mysteries follow the adventures of the 10-year-old daughter of a congressman, investigating mysterious animals in the U.S. Capitol. There are two Fina in the Mendoza household: Fina, the 10-year-old detective in the U.S. Capitol, and her grandmother Abuelita. Actress Christine Avila brings Abuelita to life. Meet her in this bonuse episode. Want to know the Facts Behind the Fiction in The Fina Mendoza Mysteries? Check out our blog. Season 2 of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast is based on the book State of the Union, by Kitty Felde, published by C...
2022-09-0609 minThe Fina Mendoza MysteriesSnow 101 for CaliforniansThe Fina Mendoza Mysteries follow the adventures of the 10-year-old daughter of a congressman, investigating mysteries in the U.S. Capitol. It's an introduction to snow to those who live in places where snow is a rare event. Our California heroines Fina and her older Sister Gabby try to figure out how you prepare for a blizzard. Season 2 of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast is based on the book State of the Union, by Kitty Felde, published by Chesapeake Press. You can get an autographed copy of State of the Union, at the website Chesapeakepress...
2022-04-2605 minThe Fina Mendoza MysteriesBird PoopThe Fina Mendoza Mysteries follow the adventures of the 10-year-old daughter of a congressman, investigating mysteries in the U.S. Capitol. Hey! Somebody stole our plot! Earlier this year, social media went crazy over a bit of corn chaff that fell on President Biden's lapel. It looked like bird poop. Which is exactly what happens in Season Two of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast. And in the book State of the Union: A Fina Mendoza Mystery by Kitty Felde. Give a listen to this sneak preview of "the morning after" scene. S...
2022-04-1904 minThe Fina Mendoza MysteriesFoxes and Birds and Other Animals on Capitol HillThe Fina Mendoza Mysteries follow the adventures of the 10-year-old daughter of a congressman, investigating mysteries in the U.S. Capitol. There are more animals on Capitol Hill than you might think. Recently, a fox bit more than half a dozen people outside the U.S. Capitol - including a U.S. Congressman. In this week's sneak preview of Season 2 of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries, we learn about the Bald Eagle's relationship to Capitol Hill. Season 2 of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast is based on the book State of the Union, by Kitty F...
2022-04-1205 minThe Fina Mendoza MysteriesP is for Political PunditsThe Fina Mendoza Mysteries follow the adventures of the 10-year-old daughter of a congressman, investigating mysteries in the U.S. Capitol. You can't do a political show in Washington DC without a political pundit. We have two of them on State of the Union: Season 2 of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast. One of them is real: the host of Ken Rudin's Political Junkie, public radio's Ken Rudin. He's joined by actor Garrett M. Brown (Sisters) as his partner in punditry. Ken and Garrett were asked to riff on the events at the State of the U...
2022-04-0507 minThe Fina Mendoza MysteriesThe Mendoza Sisters: Gabby and FinaThe Fina Mendoza Mysteries follow the adventures of the 10-year-old daughter of a congressman, investigating mysteries in the U.S. Capitol. Sometimes Fina and her older sister Gabby are not crabbing at each other. Sometimes. Here's a short scene from Season 2 with our favorite Mendoza sisters. Season 2 of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast is based on the book State of the Union, by Kitty Felde, published by Chesapeake Press. You can get an autographed copy of State of the Union, at the website Chesapeakepress.org. That's also where you can find out more about the...
2022-03-2903 min
The Fina Mendoza MysteriesMeet the Dogs of The Fina Mendoza MysteriesThe Fina Mendoza Mysteries follow the adventures of the 10-year-old daughter of a congressman, investigating mysteries in the U.S. Capitol. We respond to Olivia Lily, who comments on The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast with a complaint about the way we treat cats. We also introduce you to yet ANOTHER dog in Season 2! Season 2 of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast is based on the book State of the Union, by Kitty Felde, published by Chesapeake Press. You can get an autographed copy of State of the Union, at the website Chesapeakepress.org. That's also where...
2022-03-2205 minThe Fina Mendoza MysteriesSnowmageddon! A preview of Season 2 of the Fina Mendoza MysteriesThe Fina Mendoza Mysteries follow the adventures of the 10-year-old daughter of a congressman, investigating mysteries in the U.S. Capitol. Season 2 of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast is based on the book State of the Union, by Kitty Felde, published by Chesapeake Press. You can get an autographed copy of State of the Union, at the website Chesapeakepress.org. That's also where you can find out more about the cast and crew of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries and a free download of the 56-page Teacher's Guide to the book and the podcast just by signing up...
2022-03-1702 min
The Fina Mendoza MysteriesLosing is Democratic Part Two Bonus EpisodeHow do you explain the events of January 6th to children? This special 2-part episode is designed for teachers and parents to talk to young people about what happened and why and what larger lessons can be drawn from the attack on the U.S. Capitol. FREE curriculum for this episode can be downloaded here. The episode takes place on January 6th, 2021, in a classroom meeting on zoom because of the pandemic. Our 10-year-old detective Fina Mendoza, the daughter of a congressman, has a new mystery to solve: who stole the 5th grade's...
2022-01-0416 min
The Fina Mendoza MysteriesLosing is Democratic Part One Bonus EpisodeHow do you explain the events of January 6th to children? This special 2-part episode is designed for teachers and parents to talk to young people about what happened and why and what larger lessons can be drawn from the attack on the U.S. Capitol. FREE curriculum for this episode can be downloaded here just by signing up for our Facts Behind the Fiction blog. The episode takes place on January 6th, 2021, in a classroom meeting on zoom because of the pandemic. Our 10-year-old detective Fina Mendoza, the daughter of a congressman, h...
2022-01-0317 min
The Fina Mendoza MysteriesChristmas 2021Every family celebrates the holidays in their own special way. This year, we spend time with the Mendoza family during their first December in Washington, D.C. as they remember past celebrations and experience new traditions. We are busy taping Season Two of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries State of the Union which premieres in early 2022. The podcast series is based on a series of books by Kitty Felde in The Fina Mendoza Mysteries series. Welcome to Washington Fina Mendoza and State of the Union are both available from Chesapeake Press in hardback, paperback, and ebook whe...
2021-12-1711 minThe Fina Mendoza MysteriesA Preview of Season Two: State of the UnionSeason 2 of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast is based on the book State of the Union, by Kitty Felde, published by Chesapeake Press. You can get an autographed copy of State of the Union, at the website Chesapeakepress.org. That's also where you can find out more about the cast and crew of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries and a free download of the 56-page Teacher's Guide to the book and the podcast just by signing up for our newsletter. Every week, that newsletter includes the facts behind the fiction in the Fina Mendoza Mysteries.
2021-08-1303 minThe Fina Mendoza MysteriesLosing is Democratic Part TwoHow do you explain the events of January 6th to children? This special 2-part episode is designed for teachers and parents to talk to young people about what happened and why and what larger lessons can be drawn from the attack on the U.S. Capitol. FREE curriculum for this episode can be downloaded here just by signing up for our Facts Behind the Fiction blog. The episode takes place on January 6th, 2021, in a classroom meeting on zoom because of the pandemic. Our 10-year-old detective Fina Mendoza, the daughter of a congressman, h...
2021-02-2516 minThe Fina Mendoza MysteriesLosing is Democratic (Part One)How do you explain the events of January 6th to children? This special 2-part episode is designed for teachers and parents to talk to young people about what happened and why and what larger lessons can be drawn from the attack on the U.S. Capitol. FREE curriculum for this episode can be downloaded here. The episode takes place on January 6th, 2021, in a classroom meeting on zoom because of the pandemic. Our 10-year-old detective Fina Mendoza, the daughter of a congressman, has a new mystery to solve: who stole the 5th grade's...
2021-02-1816 minThe Fina Mendoza MysteriesLet Kids Vote! (part two)It's a new school year for Fina Mendoza, another year of distance learning. Her teacher assigns a Genius Project, letting students pick the topic they'd like to research and present to the class. Since it's an election year and Fina's congressman father is back in California campaigning for re-election, Fina decides to research voting. Specifically, letting kids younger than 18 cast a ballot. Real-life Congressman Mark Takano of Riverside, California zooms with the class to answer questions about youth voting. There is also a mystery to be solved: who broke into their classroom, ransacking the backpacks an...
2020-10-1316 minThe Fina Mendoza MysteriesLet Kids Vote! (part one)It's a new school year for Fina Mendoza, another year of distance learning. Her teacher assigns a Genius Project, letting students pick the topic they'd like to research and present to the class. Since it's an election year and Fina's congressman father is back in California campaigning for re-election, Fina decides to research voting. Specifically, letting kids younger than 18 cast a ballot. Real-life Congressman Mark Takano of Riverside, California zooms with the class to answer questions about youth voting. There is also a mystery to be solved: who broke into their classroom, ransacking the backpacks an...
2020-10-0620 minThe Fina Mendoza MysteriesFina's Coronavirus DiaryFina Mendoza, the 10-year-old detective who lives on Capitol Hill, is stuck at home with her older sister Gabby and her father, a U.S. Congessman. Fina's class assignment is to keep an audio diary as a primary source for future historians, recording what it was like to live through the coronavirus pandemic. Fina checks in by phone with her favorite dog Senator Something and solves the mystery of the missing TV remote control. We also learn about what Congress is doing. Free curriculum and a downloadable worksheet for keeping your own coronavirus diary is available at t...
2020-04-2414 minThe Fina Mendoza MysteriesBehind the Scenes of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries PodcastJournalist Susan Valot interviews writer/producer Kitty Felde about the creative choices behind THE FINA MENDOZA MYSTERIES. The podcast is based on the award winning book "Welcome to Washington, Fina Mendoza" by Kitty Felde. More information at the website finamendozamysteries.com.
2020-03-2020 minThe Fina Mendoza MysteriesMeet the Cast of The Fina Mendoza MysteriesWe asked the cast of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast to tell us a little more about their characters. The podcast is based on the award-winning book "Welcome to Washington, Fina Mendoza" by Kitty Felde. More information at the website finamendozamysteries.com.
2020-02-0423 min