Learning Through Fun, Exploring New Ways To Engage Young Readers
Reading With Your Kids Podcast
Get ready for an exciting journey into the world of children's literature with our latest podcast episode featuring two incredible guests who are transforming how kids experience reading! First up, we chat with Adam Rex, author and illustrator of the captivating new picture book "Echo". This heartwarming story explores the importance of genuine friendship and breaking free from echo chambers. Adam shares his personal journey of learning to embrace different perspectives, revealing how his own struggles with admitting mistakes inspired the book's central message. As a father, he's discovered...
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From Boredom to Breaking Free: Stories That Matter for Young Readers
Reading With Your Kids Podcast
In this powerful episode of Reading with Your Kids, listeners get a two-part exploration of impactful storytelling for young adults. First, author Mike Bender and illustrator Chuck Dillon dive into "Bored Panda," a delightful children's book celebrating the magic of boredom. They argue that unstructured time isn't something to fear, but an opportunity for creativity. Drawing from childhood memories of limited entertainment, they show how imagination flourishes when kids aren't constantly stimulated by devices. The second half of the episode takes a more serious turn with Stacy Padula and David...
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Precious Love: Celebrating Family Through Children's Literature
Reading With Your Kids Podcast
Get ready for a double dose of inspiration in this must-listen episode of Reading with Your Kids! Host Jed Doherty brings three incredible authors on the show to share powerful stories that will touch your heart and transform your family reading time. First up, meet Carlos Aponte and his stunning picture book "Precious" - a love letter to Puerto Rico that goes way beyond a simple children's story. Set against the backdrop of a hurricane, this bilingual book explores the magic of community, family resilience, and the unbreakable bonds that connect us. Aponte weaves a beautiful narrative...
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Anh Do: Laughter, Resilience, and Inspiring Young Readers
Reading With Your Kids Podcast
From Refugee to Bestselling Children's Author In this heartwarming episode of Reading with Your Kids, host Jed Doherty sits down with the extraordinary Anh Do - a comedian, actor, author, and artist who's captured the hearts of millions with his incredible storytelling. Anh Do's latest book, Wolf Girl, isn't just another children's novel - it's a powerful narrative inspired by his own remarkable life story. Born in Vietnam and escaping as a refugee on a tiny nine-meter fishing boat, Do brings a unique perspective to children's literature that's both entertaining and deeply meaningful. Wolf...
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Raising Empowered Kids: Lessons from Dr. Shafer Stedron
Reading With Your Kids Podcast
In this must-listen episode of Reading with Your Kids, host Jed Doherty sits down with Dr. Schafer Stedron, author of the groundbreaking children's book "The Boy and His Brightly Colored Blocks," to explore a revolutionary approach to parenting that's changing how we understand and support our children. Dr. Stedron introduces listeners to a powerful parenting strategy that goes beyond traditional discipline, focusing instead on connection, choice, and emotional intelligence. Her book tells the story of a young boy with pathological demand avoidance (PDA), showcasing how parents can transform...
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Mirrors and Windows: Diverse Stories for Young Readers
Reading With Your Kids Podcast
In this captivating episode of the Reading with Your Kids podcast, host Jed Doherty explores the transformative power of literature through conversations with two remarkable authors who are breaking new ground in children's and young adult literature. First up is Jodie Benveniste, a psychologist turned YA author, who shares her compelling novel "Never, Not Ever". The book follows Tilly, a teenager navigating complex family dynamics, loss, and emerging relationships. Benveniste beautifully discusses how storytelling can be a form of bibliotherapy, helping young people understand and process...
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Breaking Free from Structured Childhood: The Power of Independent Play
Reading With Your Kids Podcast
Unlock the Secrets of Playful Parenting: Creativity, Independence, and Imagination Are you tired of overscheduled kids and endless screen time? This episode of Reading with Your Kids is a game-changer for parents looking to spark their children's creativity and independence! We dive deep with two incredible guests who are revolutionizing how we think about play and childhood development. Myriam Sandler, author of "Playful by Design," shares her groundbreaking approach to creating spaces that encourage independent play. She reveals how simple home organization can transform how kids explore,...
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Unexpected Adventures: Moonlit Fairies and Superhero Farts
Reading With Your Kids Podcast
Get ready for a wild ride through children's literature with two incredible authors who are redefining storytelling for kids! In this episode of Reading with Your Kids, we dive into the magical and hilarious world of children's books with Karly Bonfante and Joan Holub. Karly Bonfante introduces us to the enchanting Full Moon Fairy, a heartwarming book series that brings nature and imagination together. Inspired by a family tradition of leaving shoes out for a magical fairy, Karly created a collection of books that teach kids about lunar cycles, kindness, and environmental awareness. Each book...
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Exploring the Outdoors and Healing Through Play
Reading With Your Kids Podcast
In a captivating podcast episode, author Susie Spikol shares her passionate approach to reconnecting children with the natural world through her innovative book, Forest Magic for Kids. This non-fiction nature activity guide offers families a unique opportunity to explore the outdoors, spark imagination, and rediscover the joy of unstructured play. Spikol, a naturalist with over 30 years of experience, challenges traditional nature education by focusing on exploration and wonder rather than strict scientific identification. Her book provides families with over 50 activities that encourage...
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Music, Miracles & Meteorology
Reading With Your Kids Podcast
In this captivating episode of Reading With Your Kids, host Jed Doherty takes listeners on an extraordinary adventure with two incredible authors who are redefining storytelling for young readers. First up is Rayne Lacko, whose young adult novel "The Secret Song of Shelby Ray" introduces readers to a fascinating protagonist with an extraordinary gift: the ability to hear people's inner music when she touches them. This unique premise explores complex themes of mental health, personal growth, and the power of understanding one's authentic self. Lacko brilliantly weaves a narrative that speaks...
info_outlineIn a captivating exploration of middle-grade storytelling, authors Mary Rose Wood and Catharina Steel offer young readers profound insights into friendship, self-discovery, and the power of imagination.
Mary Rose Wood's "Bad Badger" introduces readers to Septimus, a unique badger who doesn't quite fit in with traditional badger expectations. This heartwarming tale follows Septimus and Gully, a seagull, as they navigate the complexities of friendship despite their differences. Wood's narrative beautifully illustrates that true connection transcends surface-level distinctions, encouraging children to embrace their individuality and accept others' uniqueness.
Simultaneously, Catharina Steel's "Vanishings" takes readers on a magical adventure featuring Tilly, an impulsive protagonist searching for her missing friend Michael. Steele's story explores themes of courage, friendship, and personal growth, particularly through characters like Jess, who learns to overcome anxiety by connecting with nature.
Both authors share a commitment to creating stories that go beyond entertainment. Wood emphasizes the universal challenges of friendship and self-acceptance, while Steele highlights the importance of imagination and personal resilience. Their works demonstrate that middle-grade literature can be a powerful tool for teaching emotional intelligence and personal development.
The authors' creative processes are equally fascinating. Wood was inspired by her move to Italy, allowing her experiences to subtly influence her storytelling. Steele began her journey with vivid imagery of magical forest homes, letting her imagination guide her narrative development.
These books offer more than just stories—they provide young readers with valuable life lessons. They encourage children to be confident, embrace their unique qualities, and understand that friendship requires effort, empathy, and open-mindedness.
For parents, educators, and young readers seeking meaningful, engaging literature that sparks imagination and emotional growth, "Bad Badger" and "Vanishings" are must-read additions to any middle-grade library.
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