The Children's Book Review: Growing Readers Podcast

The Children's Book Review

"Not every book is for every child, but for every child there is a book." The Children’s Book Review, is a resource devoted to children’s literature and literacy. In the Growing Readers Podcast, we produce author and illustrator interviews focused on the best books for kids of all ages. We help parents, grandparents, caregivers, teachers, and librarians to grow readers. Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thechildrensbookreview/support read less

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Bianca with Richard Wagner on Needles, the Forgotten Christmas Tree

Bianca with Richard Wagner on Needles, the Forgotten Christmas Tree

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

Bianca with Richard Wagner on Needles, the Forgotten Christmas Tree

Bianca with Richard Wagner on Needles, the Forgotten Christmas Tree

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

Bianca with Chris Wieland on The Body on the Beach: A Kat Dylan Mystery

Bianca with Chris Wieland on The Body on the Beach: A Kat Dylan Mystery

This episode is presented in partnership with The Smart Aleck Press. Bianca is joined by the talented mystery writer Chris Wieland, the creative force behind the Kat Dylan Mysteries; including The Body on the Beach. Chris is known for crafting narratives that revolve around a strong girl protagonist, Kat Dylan. In this discussion, he delves into the intricacies of his storytelling process and how he constructs high-stakes scenarios in the fictional setting of Crabtree. Kat's emotional struggles, entwined with people she knows and cares about, add a profound layer to the storyline of The Body on the Beach. The murder of someone Kat's age prompts deep reflection on her identity and place in the world. Chris strives to create authentic, flawed characters for young readers, fostering relatability, with a theme in his work emerging — the vital use of one's mind and heart to triumph over evil, steering away from resorting to violence. Chris Wieland is an award-winning writer and filmmaker. He is also the father of two fierce children, including a tough, smart tween who helped him find the voice of his protagonist, Kat Dylan. He lives in Southern California with his family. Transcription: You can read the transcription on ⁠The Children's Book Review⁠ . Order a Copy: The Body on the Beach: A Kat Dylan Mystery on ⁠⁠Amazon⁠⁠. Resources: For more information, visit https://www.thesmartaleckpress.com/ The Lost Chapter 25 Discussion Topics: Chris Wieland talks about: The ongoing commitment to developing a resilient female protagonist, charting her evolution over time, and exploring the profound impact she has on other characters within the series.His satisfaction in crafting narratives with high-stakes scenarios.The intricacies of the enchanting setting of Crabtree.How emotional stakes heighten for Kat in Body on the Beach as she grapples with individuals she knows and cares about, introducing a poignant emotional struggle to her character development.An exploration of how a murder, specifically of someone Kat's age, reshapes the investigation's scope and prompts Kat to reflect on her place in the world.Weaving setting and backstory into the narrative without it feeling forced and the importance of organic storytelling to avoid imposing elements into the story artificially.The significance of creating authentic, flawed characters for young readers, fostering relatability.Using intellect and compassion to triumph over evil, steering clear of resorting to violence. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thechildrensbookreview/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thechildrensbookreview/support

Bianca with Kate DiCamillo on The Puppets of Spelhorst

Bianca with Kate DiCamillo on The Puppets of Spelhorst

Are you ready to be inspired? Listen to Kate DiCamillo's enlightening interview on the Growing Readers Podcast. She takes us on a journey into the magical world of The Puppets of Spelhorst and shares the power of storytelling. Her childhood memories of playing with puppets are a reminder of the beauty and simplicity that can be found in our everyday lives. Her emphasis on perseverance and dedication to doing the work is a testament to the importance of following our dreams. Let Kate's words encourage you to become the master of your own story and to focus on the beauty and magic in the world around you. Don't miss this chance to be inspired! Kate DiCamillo is one of America’s most beloved storytellers. She is a former National Ambassador for Young People’s Literature and a two-time Newbery Medalist. Born in Philadelphia, she grew up in Florida and now lives in Minneapolis. Transcription: You can read the transcription on ⁠The Children's Book Review⁠. Order a Copy: The Puppets of Spelhorst on ⁠Amazon⁠ or ⁠Bookshop.org⁠. Resources: For more information about Kate DiCamillo and her books, visit https://www.katedicamillo.com/. Discussion Topics: Kate DiCamillo talks about: The different themes and meanings readers can take away from itWhere the heart of the story came from, and childhood memories of playing with puppetsThe importance of being the masters of our own stories and how we are all interconnectedHow the art in the book adds to the magic and makes the tale feel timelessThe power of storytelling to connect people and effect changeKids who will see themselves in The Puppets of SpelhorstPerseverance as a writer, including experience with rejection lettersThe importance of doing the work and sending it out into the world, using the metaphor of buying a lottery ticketKeeping a sense of enchantment and possibility in the world by consciously focusing on beauty and magic --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thechildrensbookreview/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thechildrensbookreview/support

Bianca with Abby Hanlon on Dory Fantasmagory: Can't Live Without You

Bianca with Abby Hanlon on Dory Fantasmagory: Can't Live Without You

In this episode of The Growing Reader's Podcast, Abby Hanlon talks about how she infuses authentic challenges into her Dory Fantasmagory chapter books, giving little ones a taste of real life through the pages of her books. Abby Hanlon has taught creative writing and first grade in the New York City public school system. Inspired by her students' storytelling and drawings, Abby began to write her own stories for children, and taught herself to draw after not having drawn since childhood. She lives with her husband and two children in Brooklyn. Transcription: You can read the transcription on ⁠The Children's Book Review⁠. Order a Copy: Dory Fantasmagory: Can't Live Without You on Amazon or Bookshop.org. Resources: For more information about Abby Hanlon and her books, visit http://www.abbyhanlon.com/. Discussion Topics: Abby Hanlon talks about: Her background in early education and her drive to create chapter books for young readers with relatable scenarios and humorIncorporating realistic problems in her latest bookHow she taught herself to draw and her raw style that kids can relate toThe relatable and boundary-pushing character of Dory in children's booksAccessibility and appeal of the illustrations in the Dory books, as well as the silly and relatable moments that kids enjoyA theme in the latest book involving Mozart and death, based on a real-life experienceFart jokes and quirky moments in the booksThe importance of play in children's development and how the Dory books focus on play --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thechildrensbookreview/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thechildrensbookreview/support

Bianca with Matthew Cordell on the Cornbread and Poppy Series

Bianca with Matthew Cordell on the Cornbread and Poppy Series

Matthew Cordell discusses the Cornbread and Poppy series. Cordell draws from his personal experiences to create playful and adventurous stories that kids will love. With Cornbread and Poppy, he focuses on building a cozy and entertaining world for beginning readers to explore. We hope you enjoy listening to this interview about his creative process! Matthew Cordell is the author and illustrator of many celebrated picture books, including Hello, Neighbor!: The Kind and Caring World of Mister Rogers, and Wolf in the Snow, recipient of the 2018 Caldecott Medal. As an illustrator he has collaborated with many more authors including Gail Carson Levine, Philip C. Stead, and Rebecca Kai Dotlich. Matthew lives with his wife, author Julie Halpern, and their two children in suburban Chicago. Transcription: You can read the transcription on ⁠The Children's Book Review⁠. Order a Copy: Poppy and Cornbread At the Museum on Amazon or Bookshop.org Resources: For more information about Matthew Cordell and his books, visit https://www.matthewcordell.com/. Discussion Topics: Matthew Cordell talks about: His motivation for creating books for kidsUsing personal experiences and observations to create storiesShifting towards writing fun adventures as an escape from darker themes in children's literatureImproving writing skills through reading books for young readers, being around kids, and being immersed in the world of publishingShowing, not telling in picture book storytellingHis love for loose and expressive art, particularly in pen and ink and watercolorThe characters of Cornbread and Poppy and how their contrasting traits complement each otherCreating endings that leave a lasting impact on readersThe friendship between Cornbread and Poppy and how they overcome their differences to make each other feel betterProviding a cozy and humorous world for readers to escape into while also pleasing both adult and child readers --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thechildrensbookreview/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thechildrensbookreview/support

Bianca with Ellen Potter on Squirlish: The Girl in the Tree

Bianca with Ellen Potter on Squirlish: The Girl in the Tree

Award-winning author Ellen Potter chats about her wonderful chapter book, Squirlish: The Girl in the Tree. Get ready to laugh out loud as the story unfolds on how a girl raised by squirrels in Central Park attempts to make new human friends. Inspired by a friend raising a baby squirrel and her own life experiences, Ellen hopes readers will appreciate the value of finding one's own strengths no matter the community they find themselves in. So sit back, relax, and enjoy this fun-filled episode. Ellen Potter is the author of more than twenty award-winning novels for children and young adults, including Olivia Kidney, Slob, the Big Foot and Little Foot series, the Piper Green and The Fairy Tree series, The Humming Room, Pish Posh, and The Kneebone Boy. Several of her books have been chosen by the New York Public Library for their Best 100 Books for Children list and have appeared on numerous state reading lists. Her nonfiction writing book, Spilling Ink, A Young Writer’s Handbook, coauthored with Anne Mazer, was also chosen by the New York Public Library as a Best 100 Books for Children. Ellen lives in upstate New York with her family. Transcription: You can read the transcription on ⁠The Children's Book Review. Order a Copy: Squirlish: The Girl in the Tree on Amazon⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Bookshop.org⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Hither and Nigh on Amazon⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Bookshop.org⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. The Golden Imaginarium on ⁠Amazon⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Bookshop.org⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Resources: For more information about Ellen and her books, visit EllenPotter.com. Discussion Topics: Ellen Potter talks about: How she writes to delight kids and wants to transport them to another world through her stories.That writing for kids is more fun than writing for adults.Doing school visits to ignite a love of writing in children.How writing is challenging, but she has developed strategies to get past those rough spots and move through the writing process.The importance of revision and how her best writing has always come out in revision.Methods for overcoming writer's block.The inspiration behind Squirlish and how it came from a friend raising a baby squirrel.How her own life experiences, such as her son going off to college, influenced the story.Themes of fitting in and finding one's strengths in the first book and how they continue in the second book, which also touches on New York City historyAppreciating the value of finding one's own strengths. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thechildrensbookreview/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thechildrensbookreview/support

Bianca with Katherine Applegate and Gennifer Choldenko on Dogtown

Bianca with Katherine Applegate and Gennifer Choldenko on Dogtown

Award-winning authors Katherine Applegate and Gennifer Choldenko's co-authored book Dogtown showcases how fiction can help instill empathy and compassion, especially in fun stories that involve animals. They discuss the immeasurable and inspiring power of literature. Their work is a testament to the fact that stories can have a meaningful impact on the human experience. Dogtown encourages us to take the time to stop and consider the world around us and to become more aware and empathetic members of our community. Katherine Applegate is the #1 New York Times-bestselling author of beloved and award-winning books for young readers, including Odder, Home of the Brave, Crenshaw, Wishtree, Willodeen, and The One and Only Ivan, for which she won the Newbery Medal. She is also the author of the Animorphs series, and a beginning reader series, Doggo and Pupper, illustrated by Charlie Alder. Katherine Applegate lives in Southern California with her family. Gennifer Choldenko’s best known Tales from Alcatraz series has been called “A cornerstone series in contemporary children’s literature.” Al Capone Does My Shirts―the first book in the series―was a Newbery Honor Book and the recipient of twenty other awards. All four books in the series were Junior Library Guild selections and garnered many starred reviews. Gennifer lives in the San Francisco Bay area with her loyal husband and naughty dog. Transcription: You can read the transcription on ⁠The Children's Book Review (coming soon)⁠. Order a Copy: Dogtown on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Amazon⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Bookshop.org⁠⁠⁠⁠. Resources: You can find out more about Katherine Applegate at https://katherineapplegate.com/. You can find out more about Gennifer Choldenko at https://www.choldenko.com/. Discussion Topics: Katherine and Gennifer talk about: Their love of dogs, writing, and, of course, DogtownKatherine's struggles with sitting down to write and how she uses the Pomodoro method to help her get startedHow they connected over their love for middle grade readers and collaborated on writing DogtownResearch for Dogtown, including volunteering at a pet shelter and training dogs for therapy workHow the idea of robot dogs versus real dogs came about for the storyThe main characters Metalhead and Chance and what they representWallace West's illustrations in the book and how he brought it to life with his quirky and original styleThe importance of fiction in developing empathy and compassion, and how stories about animals (like Dogtown) can inspire kids to cherish and appreciate their furry companions --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thechildrensbookreview/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thechildrensbookreview/support

Bianca with Josh Funk on Dear Unicorn

Bianca with Josh Funk on Dear Unicorn

Join the conversation with author Josh Funk as he discusses the unique nuances between Dear Dragon and Dear Unicorn. In this lively discussion, Funk taps into the concept of duality in relationships—how a balance between positivity and negativity can facilitate growth. Discover the intricate details in the book's illustrations, and learn how asking questions and staying curious can bring color and excitement to life. This conversation encourages readers to appreciate art, celebrate their differences, and learn to connect more deeply with others. Listen up and be inspired to channel your inner creativity and keep an open mind in your day-to-day interactions. By day, Josh Funk writes C++, Java Code, and Python scripts as a software engineer, which he's been doing for the last twenty years. In his spare time he uses ABC's, drinks Java coffee, and writes picture book manuscripts, such as How to Code a Sandcastle, Lady Pancake & Sir French Toast, The Case of the Stinky Stench, Dear Dragon, and more. Josh graduated from the UMass Amherst Commonwealth College with a degree in computer science. He is a board member of the Writers' Loft in Sherborn, Massachusetts, and the co-coordinator of the 2017 New England Regional SCBWI Conference. Transcription: You can read the transcription on ⁠The Children's Book Review. Order a Copy: Dear Unicorn on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Amazon⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Bookshop.org⁠⁠⁠. Resources: You can find out more about Josh Funk at https://www.joshfunkbooks.com/. Discussion Topics: Josh Funk talks about: The inspiration behind his previous book, Dear Dragon, and how it unintentionally became a hit with teachers for its themes of friendship and challenging assumptions.How he came up with the idea for Dear Unicorn while waiting in line for a roller coaster at Disney World and wrote the entire first draft on his phone with his child's help.The difference between Dear Dragon and Dear UnicornUsing art to communicate and express emotions.Takeaways for kids reading Dear Unicorn.Balance between positivity and negativity in relationships and how it can lead to growth.How getting to know someone allows for more authenticityThe characters of Connie and Nic, the unicorn, express themselves differently.Josh and Bianca read a page from Dear Unicorn.Using his platform to share the work of other authors and push for inclusivity and representation --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thechildrensbookreview/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thechildrensbookreview/support

Bianca with Julie Hedlund on Song After Song: The Musical Life of Julie Andrews

Bianca with Julie Hedlund on Song After Song: The Musical Life of Julie Andrews

Get ready to be inspired by Julie Hedlund and her outstanding involvement in writing communities! In this episode of The Growing Readers Podcast, she shares her research process behind her masterpiece Song After Song: The Musical Life of Julie Andrews. Hedlund hopes to inspire readers to learn from Andrews' hard work and celebrate their unique paths. Julie Hedlund is the award-winning children's picture book author of Over, Bear! Under, Where? She spends much of her time inside her imagination, and when not writing or reading, she enjoys playing in the mountains near her home in Boulder, Colorado. She lives with her two teenage children and their high-maintenance hound dog. Transcription: You can read the transcription on The Children's Book Review. Order a Copy: Song After Song: The Musical Life of Julie Hedlund on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Amazon⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Bookshop.org⁠⁠. Resources: You can find out more about Julie at https://juliehedlund.com/. Follow her on Twitter @juliefhedlund. 12x12 Challenge: https://www.12x12challenge.com/. Picture Book Summit: https://picturebooksummit.com/. Home: A Memoir of My Early Years by Julie Andrews: https://amzn.to/3PrNAkx. Discussion Topics: Julie Hedlund talks about: Her writing process and the importance of being a reader before becoming a writer.Her involvement in writing communities like 12 x 12 and Picture Book Summit, where Julie Andrews is a keynote speaker this year.How a comment from Julie Andrews' daughter led to writing a picture book biography about Julie AndrewsExtensive research for the book, including reading Julie's memoir, doing onsite research in London, and listening to interviews.The book's emotional climax and how readers can take away the message that they can use their gifts to improve the world.The benefits of reading from biographies of people who work hard and achieve great things, just like Julie Andrews.Embracing individual paths and not comparing oneself to others. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thechildrensbookreview/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thechildrensbookreview/support

Bianca with Nyasha Williams on Ally Baby Can Be Antiracist and Keep Dreaming Black Child

Bianca with Nyasha Williams on Ally Baby Can Be Antiracist and Keep Dreaming Black Child

Nyasha Williams discusses her mission to decolonize literature by creating books that share important information accessible for all ages. Her books, including Ally Baby: Can Be Antiracist and Keep Dreaming Black Child, emphasize the importance of taking action and being an ally while acknowledging the need for humility—the conversations her books spark can help create a more equitable world. Nyasha Williams is an author, creator, and activist who works to decolonize literature, minds, and spiritual practices one day at a time. She is also the author of the picture books What’s the Commotion in the Ocean? and I Affirm Me ABCs. Transcription: You can read the transcription on The Children's Book Review. Order a Copy: Ally Baby Can Be Antiracist on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Amazon⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Bookshop.org⁠. Keep Dreaming Black Child on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Amazon⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Bookshop.org⁠⁠. Black Tarot on Amazon and Bookshop.org. Resources: For more information, visit https://www.nyashawilliams.online/⁠. Discussion Topics: Nyasha talks about: Her mission to decolonize literature and how she got into writing children's books driven by her love for water and eco-activism.The writing process through ancestral connection.Challenges of funding and editing in the publishing world, especially regarding getting sample illustrations and pushing into higher realms.Creating the "Ally Baby Can" series and incorporating rhyming in the books.How the illustrations in the books are designed to convey messages even if the child cannot access the words.The inclusion of a glossary for formal terminology.How she hopes the books will resonate with readers.Taking action and being an ally and needing humility, hard conversations, and acknowledging diversity to create a more equitable world. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thechildrensbookreview/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thechildrensbookreview/support

Bianca with Remy Lai on Ghost Book

Bianca with Remy Lai on Ghost Book

Get ready to be inspired as you learn about Remy Lai's creative process and the inspiration behind her latest graphic novel, Ghost Book, which beautifully deals with the difficult themes of death and grief in a moving and hopeful way. Remy Lai studied fine arts with a major in painting and drawing. She was born in Indonesia, grew up in Singapore, and currently lives in Brisbane, Australia, where she writes and draws stories for kids with her two dogs by her side. She is the author of the critically-acclaimed Pie in the Sky, Fly on the Wall, and Pawcasso. Transcription: You can read the transcription on The Children's Book Review. Order a Copy: Ghost Book on ⁠⁠⁠⁠Amazon⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Bookshop.org. Resources: For more information, visit https://remylai.com. Discussion Topics: What drives Remy Lai to create books for childrenFrom the images in her head to finishing revisions on a manuscriptGhost Book, and how the idea came to herOrigin of the characters in Ghost BookThe concept of hungry ghosts and their significance in Chinese culture and how they fit into the storyThemes of death and grief and the importance of exploring these themes in a hopeful wayThe importance of quality friendships over quantityFinding the right ending to the story — Sponsor: This episode was made possible in part by author Virginia Shaw Genthner, the author of Jellybean Finds a Family. Listen to the book spotlight about this true story that follows Jellybean the horse as he leaves Europe to come to the United States looking for a family. Order a Copy: Jellybean Finds a Family on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Amazon⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Bookshop.org⁠. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thechildrensbookreview/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thechildrensbookreview/support

Bianca with Jessica Speer on The Phone Book: Stay Safe, Be Smart, and Make the World Better with the Powerful Device in Your Hand

Bianca with Jessica Speer on The Phone Book: Stay Safe, Be Smart, and Make the World Better with the Powerful Device in Your Hand

Jessica Speer wrote The Phone Book to provide knowledge and empowerment for kids and families regarding smartphone use. The book includes quizzes, real stories, techie tidbits, and secret codes to engage readers. In this informative chat, she suggests modeling healthy tech habits, creating a tech agreement, having regular conversations about the dark side of tech, and teaching digital literacy and citizenship to help kids form healthy digital habits. Speer is the award-winning author of BFF or NRF (Not Really Friends)? A Girls Guide to Happy Friendships and Middle School – Safety Goggles Advised. Her interactive books for preteens and teens entertain readers while exploring important topics. Blending humor, a dash of science, stories, and insights, her writing unpacks challenges that surface during adolescence. She has a master’s degree in social sciences and explores topics in ways that connect with kids. Jessica is regularly featured in and contributes to media outlets on topics related to kids, teens, parenting, and social-emotional development. Transcription: You can read the transcription on The Children's Book Review. Order a Copy: The Phone Book: Stay Safe, Be Smart, and Make the World Better with the Powerful Device in Your Hand: ⁠⁠⁠Amazon⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Bookshop.org⁠⁠. Resources: For more information, visit www.JessicaSpeer.com. Discussion Topics: The Phone Book balances knowledge and empowerment for kids and families regarding smartphone useWorking with kids to gather information and storiesHow watching "The Social Dilemma" highlighted the need for guardrails around technology use for kids and inspired The Phone BookHelping kids understand technology and its impactThe design elements and interactive features of The Phone BookModeling healthy tech habits, creating a tech agreement, having regular conversations about the dark side of tech, and teaching digital literacy and citizenship for parents to help their kids form healthy digital habitsCreating more informed young users of tech through her bookEncouraging families to have guidebooks on hand for when kids hit a bump in the road --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thechildrensbookreview/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thechildrensbookreview/support

Bianca with Josh Clark and Chuck Bryant on Stuff Kids Should Know

Bianca with Josh Clark and Chuck Bryant on Stuff Kids Should Know

Chuck Bryant and Josh Clark are the duo behind the award-winning tri-weekly podcast Stuff You Should Know. They talk about how they adapted their content for their kids' book Stuff Kids Should Know, using kid-friendly topics. They have a background in researching and writing and find a story in whatever they're talking about. The pair have been working together on the show since it began in 2008, and it has gone on to become one of the most downloaded podcasts in history. They are currently based in Atlanta. Transcription: You can read the transcription on The Children's Book Review. Order a Copy: Stuff Kids Should Know: ⁠⁠Amazon⁠⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠⁠Bookshop.org⁠. Resources: You can listen to the Stuff You Should Know podcast on iHeart Radio. Discussion Topics: Chuck and Josh discuss: How they adapted their podcast content for their kids' bookTheir love of nonfiction and how they became interested in learningChoosing topics for their podcast and how they selected topics for their bookResearching and writing and relying on a body of research to have a conversationTricks for fact-checking over the years, such as investigating red flags and finding multiple sources to back up claimsInfusing humor into the show and finding humor in most thingsThat everything is interconnected in some wayFinding a story in whatever they're talking aboutTheir approach to researching and writing nonfiction emphasizes the importance of following questions and not taking things for grantedA glimpse at each of the chapters of the book --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thechildrensbookreview/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thechildrensbookreview/support

Bianca with Sally Pla on The Water, The Fire, and Maudie McGinn

Bianca with Sally Pla on The Water, The Fire, and Maudie McGinn

Sally J. Pla discusses her novel The Fire, the Water, and Maudie McGinn and describes the character of Maudie as a girl who learns resiliency in the face of life's challenges. Sally also talks about the importance of reading about characters different from oneself to broaden empathy and understanding. The themes of the book include divorce, neurodivergence, and abuse. Sally's website, Novelmind.com, is a resource for mental health and neurodiversity representation in children's literature. Sally J. Pla is the author of the acclaimed novels The Someday Birds and Stanley Will Probably Be Fine. She has English degrees from Colgate and Penn State and has worked as a business journalist and in public education. She has three sons, a husband, and an enormous fluffy dog and lives near lots of lemon trees in Southern California. Transcription: You can read the transcription on The Children's Book Review . Order a Copy: The Fire, the Water, and Maudie McGinn: ⁠Amazon⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠Bookshop.org. Resources: You can visit Sally J. Pla online at www.sallyjpla.com. Visit anovelmind.com, a site about mental health and neurodiversity in children’s literature. Discussion Topics: The premise of The Fire, the Water, and Maudie McGinn and how it fits with Sally's missionSally discusses the struggle of sustaining focus and shares her secret weapon, a particular software, to block distractions.She explains how her mission to populate children's literature with neurodivergent characters came about through her own experiences with her neurodivergent children and a health emergency that refocused her priorities.The importance of reading about characters who are different from oneself to broaden empathy and understanding.Sally describes the character of Maudie as a girl who cares about others and wants to be accepted and loved and learns to surf as a metaphor for learning resiliency in the face of life's challenges.Inherited traumas that parents bring into their parenting and the resources included in the book.How the combination of prose and verse in the book was a natural evolution based on Maudie's thought processesThe message of empowerment and resilience in The Fire, the Water, and Maudie McGinn. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thechildrensbookreview/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thechildrensbookreview/support

Bianca with Carin Berger on In the Night Garden

Bianca with Carin Berger on In the Night Garden

Carin Berger shares her love for books, childhood memories, and inspiration for her latest book, In The Night Garden. She discusses her creative process for creating collages and the impact she hopes her book will have on readers. Carin Berger is the award-winning author and illustrator of almost a dozen picture books for children, including The Little Yellow Leaf, a New York Times Best Illustrated Book, All of Us, and Finding Spring. She is also the illustrator of Behold the Bold Umbrellaphant by Jack Prelutsky and Are We Pears Yet? by Miranda Paul. She and her family divide their time between NYC and Cupcake, their home, in the Hudson Valley. Carin spends all of her spare time tending her garden. Transcription: You can read the transcription on The Children's Book Review. Order a Copy: In the Night Garden: ⁠Amazon⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠Bookshop.org. Resources: You can visit Carin Berger at http://www.carinberger.com/. Discussion Topics: Carin's motivations for creating books for childrenExploring the natural world at night and overcoming fearsThe process of creating collages, which involves drawing intricate dummies, making vellums, cutting stencils, and using found ephemeraThe hidden messages or secrets in the artwork—Carin sometimes incorporates words or numbers with personal significanceGetting the physical artwork to editors and art designers and the back-and-forth process of scanning and color correction Challenges of printing on uncoated paperThe impact Carin hopes her book In the Night Garden will have on readersEncouragement to look deeply at books and the world around you --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thechildrensbookreview/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thechildrensbookreview/support

Bianca with Todd Parr On The Monster Mac and Cheese Party

Bianca with Todd Parr On The Monster Mac and Cheese Party

In this episode, Todd Parr shares his journey to becoming an author and illustrator, inspired by his struggles in school and desire to help kids feel better about themselves. His books have clear messages of inclusivity and kindness, and the new book, The Monster Mac and Cheese Party, featuring monsters and macaroni and cheese, adds humor while reinforcing the joys that come from sharing a meal together. The conversation emphasizes the importance of kindness, self-confidence, and creating memories for families through children's books. Todd Parr has inspired and empowered millions of children around the world with his bold images and positive messages. He is the bestselling author of more than sixty books, including The Goodbye Book, The Family Book, The I Love You Book, and It's Okay to be Different. He lives in California. Transcription: You can read the transcription on ⁠The Children's Book Review⁠. Order copies: The Monster Mac and Cheese Party: Amazon⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠Bookshop.org⁠⁠. Resources: You can visit Todd Parr at https://www.toddparr.com/. Discussion Topics: Becoming an author and illustratorBeing discovered by an editor at a licensing show in New York CityCreating children's books based on inclusivity and kindnessHow struggling in school with dyslexia and family issues has led to writing books that help kids feel better about themselvesCreating self-help books for kids with clear messages rather than character-driven storiesAddressing social-emotional issues with kids is more important now than everStaying true to the idea of empowering kids leads to endless possibilities for future booksThe inspiration behind the picture book, The Monster Mac and Cheese Party, and how it fits into the overall approach of creating inclusive booksThe importance of kindness, self-confidence, and being who you are --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thechildrensbookreview/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thechildrensbookreview/support

Bianca with Kaz Windness on Bitsy Bat, School Star and Autism

Bianca with Kaz Windness on Bitsy Bat, School Star and Autism

In this episode, Kaz Windness is the author of multiple books for kids, but most recently Bitsy Bat, School Star—a picture book that she hopes will help readers gain a better understanding and compassion for what it's like to be autistic and build more self-acceptance. Kaz Windness is an author-illustrator who loves to make her readers laugh. When she’s not writing or illustrating books, Kaz teaches illustration at the Rocky Mountain College of Art + Design and enjoys making deep-dish pizza. Kaz lives in Denver, Colorado, with her husband, two children, and a Boston terrier. She’s the author of picture books Swim, Jim! and Bitsy Bat, School Star. She also created the Level 1 Ready-to-Read Graphics Worm and Caterpillar Are Friends and the Level 1 Ready-to-Read Cat vs. Vac. Transcription: You can read the transcription on The Children's Book Review. Order copies: Bitsy Bat, School Star: ⁠Amazon⁠ and ⁠Bookshop.org⁠. Resources: You can visit Kaz Windness at www.windnessbooks.com. Discussion Topics: The things that guide and drive Kaz Windness in creating books for kids.Struggling with learning while being a lover of books and reading.Being a neurodivergent author writing a book about a neurodivergent character.A look into the creative process of the picture book.Playing with the artistic perspective or an autistic bat.Inclusivity in the classroom. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thechildrensbookreview/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thechildrensbookreview/support

Bianca with Chris Grabenstein on Writing Books for Kids

Bianca with Chris Grabenstein on Writing Books for Kids

In this episode, Chris Grabenstein talks about writing, reading, and his new hilariously profound picture book No Is All I Know and the latest book on the Smartest Kid in the Universe series: Evil Genius. Chris Grabenstein is the multiple award-winning, #1 New York Times bestselling author of the MR. LEMONCELLO, HAUNTED MYSTERY, WELCOME TO WONDERLAND, SMARTEST KID IN THE UNIVERSE, and DOG SQUAD series. He also wrote THE ISLAND OF DR. LIBRIS, SHINE (with his wife J.J.), the picture book NO MORE NAPS, and many, many other books, plays, and audiobook originals. Chris and J.J. Grabenstein live in New York City with two cats and lots of ideas. Transcription: You can read the transcription on ⁠The Children's Book Review. Order copies: No Is All I Know: Amazon and Bookshop.org Smartest Kid in the Universe: Evil Genius: Amazon⁠ and ⁠Bookshop.org⁠ Resources: You can visit Chris Grabenstein at ChrisGrabenstein.com. No More Naps, by Chris Grabenstein and Leo Espinosa. Escape from Mr. Lemoncello's Library: The Graphic Novel, by Chris Grabenstein and Douglas Holgate. The Jackie Ha-Ha series by Chris Grabenstein and James Patterson. Welcome to Wonderland series, by Chris Grabenstein. Discussion Topics: Chris Grabenstein's time in a top New York City improvisational comedy troupe performing with Bruce Willis and Robin Williams.Writing for Jim Henson's Muppets, co-writing the movie The Christmas Gift (starring John Denver), and working in advertising with James Patterson.The art of never being boring when writing for kids.Chris's tip for creativity and finding ideas.The picture book No Is All I Know.The latest book on the Smartest Kid in the Universe series: Evil Genius.The graphic novel edition of Mr. Lemoncello's Library. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thechildrensbookreview/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thechildrensbookreview/support

Bianca with Vicki Willden-Lebrecht On the Bright Agency

Bianca with Vicki Willden-Lebrecht On the Bright Agency

In this episode, Vicki Willden-Lebrecht, founder and CEO of Bright Agency—an agency set up to do more than represent artists and authors. Beginning with children's publishing, Vicki founded Bright in 2003 and nurtured it into a thriving international creative management agency around the globe. The artists and clients of Bright work across Publishing, Illustration, Greetings & Gifts, Film and TV, and Licensing—giving the work they create more commercial potential and providing artists more opportunities. Vicki is a born entrepreneur with an exceptional talent for generating new business and riding the cutting edge of opportunity. Her original thinking, dynamic leadership, and life-long dedication to artist care are the bedrock of Bright's exceptional commercial and creative success. Resources: https://thebrightagency.comhttps://www.rocketahead.org/ Discussion Topics: Nurturing a publishing agency into a thriving creative management agency.Insight into what agents and publishers seek in new author and illustrator talent.Do's and don'ts for new talent seeking an agent.Vicki talks about her new non-profit organization Rocket Ahead. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thechildrensbookreview/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thechildrensbookreview/support

Bianca with Maria Castelluci Moore On Vivienne in Paris

Bianca with Maria Castelluci Moore On Vivienne in Paris

This episode is presented in partnership with María Castelluci Moore, the author of Vivienne in Paris—winner of the Moms Choice Award. It's a delightful picture book that inspires young readers to delve deeper into their senses and observe how it ignites their emotions to find what makes them feel joy unique to them. Owner Entrepreneur, first-generation American, writer, and mother to four children. Maria Castellucci Moore strives to bring passion and enthusiasm to all her endeavors. A lover of all things European, María has found great passion through her travels to Paris, Italy, Spain, and South America. Her affection for winemaking, foreign languages, the arts, ballroom dancing, and traveling has given María a unique and grateful perspective on life. Her love for her family and helping others through charitable giving has enabled María to thoughtfully curate purposeful life adventures. María Castellucci Moore earned her bachelor of arts degree in finance from Dominican University on a tennis scholarship. She later pursued studies at New York University and the London School of Economics with a focus on global affairs. In 2016, with her siblings, Maria founded Castellucci Napa Family, a luxury wine and real estate brand. María runs her wine label and a family real estate development company in the greater Bay Area. She is a board member of the San Francisco Opera Guild and is enthusiastic about building opportunity and community through the arts. María resides in Saint Helena, California, with her husband and four young children. She enjoys writing; traveling; attending the opera, ballet, and symphony; flower arranging; winemaking; ballroom dancing; and playing tennis and the piano. Transcription: You can read the transcription on ⁠The Children's Book Review⁠. Order copies: Vivienne in Paris on ⁠Bookshop.org⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Amazon⁠⁠⁠. Resources: For more information, visit https://mariacastelluccimooreauthor.com/. Discussion Topics: Running a luxury wine label and real estate brand while being a mom of four children.Becoming an author and adding this title to her repertoire.The joys of reading and getting lost in a good book.Vivienne in Paris and its message of mindfulness and the impact it has on readers. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thechildrensbookreview/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thechildrensbookreview/support