Exploring AI, Foster Care, and Friendship in Middle Grade Fiction
Reading With Your Kids Podcast
Release Date: 07/01/2025
Cuddly Pandas & Chaotic Chickens
Reading With Your Kids Podcast
Welcome to a heartwarming episode of Reading With Your Kids! Join host Jed Doherty as he sits down with talented authors CS Jennings and Nancy Tavares to explore the creative magic behind their latest children’s books, Whoa Panda and Chicken Coop Chaos. Discover how CS Jennings found inspiration in his sister’s larger-than-life dog and meaningful moments with children to create a lovable panda character, learning how the illustration process and story evolved together. Next, meet Nancy Tavares as she shares her experiences from 30 years teaching reading and how those lessons led to the...
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From Christmas Trees to Ospreys: Celebrating Imagination in Children’s Books
Reading With Your Kids Podcast
Join us for a heartwarming episode of the Reading With Your Kids podcast, where we dive into the magic and legacy of beloved children’s books! First, host Jed Doherty welcomes John Barry, son of Robert Barry, the creative mind behind the timeless classic “Mr. Willoughby’s Christmas Tree.” John shares touching memories of his father’s artistic journey and introduces “Mr. Willoughby’s Head Over Heels, Christmas,” a delightful new holiday story sure to enchant families for generations. Next, we meet children’s author Adrienne Palma, creator of “Oakley the Osprey” and the...
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Navigating Screens & Skies
Reading With Your Kids Podcast
Join us for a captivating episode of the Reading With Your Kids podcast featuring two inspiring authors who empower families through knowledge and storytelling! First, Dr. Brad Marshall, a leading expert on childhood screen and gaming disorders, shares actionable advice from his new middle-grade book, “Do Not Disturb.” Dr. Brad discusses the dangers of excessive screen time, the importance of healthy digital boundaries, and practical tips for parents navigating technology with their kids. Learn how his evidence-based approach helps families build healthier tech habits. Next, children’s...
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From Courage To Compassion
Reading With Your Kids Podcast
Join us on this heartwarming episode of Reading With Your Kids as we welcome two inspiring children’s authors! Paige Murray stops by to celebrate her picture book, “Rosie’s Ranch Rescue.” Paige shares stories straight from her Texas ranch, featuring real animals and adventures that teach kids about compassion, bravery, and the value of family. Discover how Paige’s daughter, Oakley, and their gentle giant, Rosie the Clydesdale, sparked this fun-filled, meaningful series. Next, we’re joined by Ta'Shay Mason, a veteran, social worker, and author of the “A Child’s Journey...
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Bionic Boy & Book Loving Ghosts
Reading With Your Kids Podcast
In this captivating episode of Reading with Your Kids, host Jed Doherty explores the transformative power of children's literature through conversations with two remarkable authors who are reshaping storytelling for young readers. First, award-winning author Lynn Plourde discusses her groundbreaking middle-grade novel, "The Bionic Boy." The book follows Benji, an 11-year-old adopted boy born without hands, who discovers the true meaning of heroism and self-acceptance. Inspired by her 21-year career as a speech therapist, Plourde crafts a compassionate narrative that celebrates children with...
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Parenting Without The Bubble Wrap
Reading With Your Kids Podcast
In this heartwarming episode of Reading with Your Kids, host Jed Doherty explores the power of children's literature with two remarkable authors who are changing how we understand personal challenges and differences. First, Katherine Schwarzenegger Pratt shares her touching picture book "Kat and Brandy," a story inspired by her own childhood experience with horseback riding. After being thrown from a horse, Katherine learned the transformative power of patience, healing, and animal therapy. Her book celebrates overcoming fears and building confidence, offering parents a beautiful tool to...
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A Tale Of Two Species
Reading With Your Kids Podcast
In this delightful episode of "Reading with Your Kids," host Jed Doherty explores two fascinating children's books that go far beyond simple storytelling. First, Leokadia George shares the incredible story of Trumpet, a Mexican gray wolf from the Wolf Conservation Center. Trumpet isn't just any wolf - she's a critically important member of a species that was once down to just seven wolves worldwide. George's book series follows Trumpet's life, highlighting conservation efforts and the importance of protecting endangered species. Her latest book, "Trumpet Becomes a Mom," chronicles Trumpet's...
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Reading Beyond Boundaries: Stories of Courage and Imagination
Reading With Your Kids Podcast
In this delightful episode of "Reading with Your Kids," host Jed Doherty sits down with two remarkable authors who are changing the landscape of children's literature through powerful storytelling. First up is Christie Mandin, who introduces her charming character Millie Fleur. In her latest book, "Millie Fleur Saves the Night," Mandin explores themes of community, difference, and courage through the lens of a quirky character living in Garden Glen, a neighborhood where conformity is king. Mandin shares her own experiences of not fitting into traditional "boxes" and how this inspired her...
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Coloring Outside Of The Lines
Reading With Your Kids Podcast
Get ready for a double dose of middle-grade magic! In this exciting episode of Reading with Your Kids, Jed Doherty takes listeners on two incredible literary adventures. First up, Rachel Renee Russell and her daughter Nikki dive into the colorful world of Dork Diaries. What started as a black and white series in 2009 has transformed into a vibrant, eye-catching experience. Nikki shared the mind-blowing coloring process, which involves up to 300 layers per image, creating a Pixar-style visual feast that took three years to complete. Then, Jed switches gears to chat with Max Braillier about The...
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I Can Make A Difference With My Stories
Reading With Your Kids Podcast
In an exciting episode of Reading with Your Kids, filmmaker Morgan Stevenson Cooper shares a powerful message about children's creativity and empowerment through his debut picture book, "I Can Make a Movie". This inspiring conversation explores how modern technology and storytelling can transform young minds. Cooper's book follows Nora Rose, a young girl making her first film with her brother and cousins, highlighting the incredible opportunity children now have to create movies using devices in their pockets. Beyond just filmmaking, the book teaches critical life skills like decision-making,...
info_outlineIn this dynamic episode of Reading With Your Kids, host Jed Doherty takes listeners on a fascinating journey through two remarkable middle-grade novels that push the boundaries of storytelling.
First up is J E Thomas and her groundbreaking middle grade novel "The AI Incident," which explores the complex world of artificial intelligence through the eyes of Malcolm Montgomery, a 12-year-old foster kid. Thomas reveals how her book tackles themes of technology, friendship, and personal growth, offering a nuanced look at how AI might impact education and human connections.
The episode then shifts to a captivating conversation with Newbery Award-winning author Karen Cushman, who introduces her latest work, "When Sally O'Malley Discovered the Sea." Cushman shares her unique approach to historical storytelling, discussing how she crafts narratives that transport young readers to different times and experiences.
Both authors offer profound insights into the writing process. Thomas explains how she found her narrative voice by connecting with her 12-year-old emotional self, while Cushman discusses overcoming her own writing fears with the support of her husband. Their stories highlight the importance of persistence, creativity, and authentic storytelling.
The conversations touch on critical themes that resonate with young readers and parents alike - from the challenges of foster care and the impact of technology to the power of curiosity and personal discovery. Both books serve as windows into different worlds, encouraging empathy, understanding, and imagination.
Listeners will be inspired by the authors' passion for storytelling, their commitment to creating meaningful middle-grade literature, and their ability to tackle complex subjects with humor, heart, and insight.
"The AI Incident" launches on July 8th, and Karen Cushman's "When Sally O'Malley Discovered the Sea" offers young readers a compelling historical adventure. Don't miss these incredible new additions to middle-grade literature!
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