Mirrors and Windows: Diverse Stories for Young Readers
Reading With Your Kids Podcast
Release Date: 05/15/2025
Bear & The Three Goldilocks
Reading With Your Kids Podcast
In this delightful episode of Reading with Your Kids, host Jed Doherty takes listeners on an inspiring literary adventure with two incredible children's book authors who prove that creativity knows no bounds. First up is Patrick Horne, an athletic director and picture book author who discovered his storytelling magic during morning runs. His latest book, "Bear and the Three Goldilocks," flips the classic fairy tale on its head with a hilarious camping adventure. Patrick shares how his experience working at a trilingual school and running inspire his creative process, demonstrating that great...
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Imagination Unleashed: Podcasts, Myths, and Magical Moments
Reading With Your Kids Podcast
Dive into a Magical World of Storytelling: Podcasts, Greek Myths, and Family Connections In this exciting episode of Reading with Your Kids, host Jed Doherty explores two incredible storytelling experiences that bring families closer together through audio and books. First up, Julie Burstein and Dr. Michael Cohen introduce "Live from Mount Olympus," a captivating podcast series bringing Greek myths to life for kids aged 8-12. The podcast transforms ancient stories into immersive audio adventures, featuring professional actors and rich sound design. Their latest season follows the hero Theseus...
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Hurricanes, Heroes, and Humanity
Reading With Your Kids Podcast
In this captivating episode of Reading with Your Kids, we explore two remarkable books that go far beyond traditional storytelling. First, we meet Mason Stokes, author of "All the Truth I Can Stand," a powerful young adult novel that reimagines the story of Matthew Shepard. Stokes courageously delves into the complexity of human experiences, challenging readers to see beyond simple narratives and embrace nuanced understanding. The book follows Ash, a young gay teen navigating grief and loss, whose world is transformed by a relationship that ends tragically. Stokes brilliantly weaves historical...
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Voices Unheard: Children's Books That Make a Difference
Reading With Your Kids Podcast
In this heartwarming episode of Reading with Your Kids, we dive into two incredible children's books that prove storytelling is about so much more than just entertainment. Meet Ruby Renee, the spirited protagonist who's learning the art of sharing the spotlight, and Maddie, a resilient young girl finding her place in the world. Ashley Iman, a passionate math teacher turned author, brings Ruby Renee to life in her latest book. Ruby's journey is all about learning to share her voice - quite literally! As the star of morning announcements, she discovers the challenge of making space for others...
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Beyond Words: The Transformative Power of Reading Together
Reading With Your Kids Podcast
In this inspiring episode, host Jed Doherty explores two powerful approaches to child development through reading and connection. First, Michal Berg, CEO of Spirituality for Kids (SFK), shares her heartwarming children's book "LB: Discovering the Inner Light". Berg explains how the book helps children understand their inherent worth and inner potential. She emphasizes that every child has an "inner light" - a core of wisdom, goodness, and resilience that never dims, even when life feels challenging. Berg's approach goes beyond traditional emotional learning, focusing on spiritual intelligence....
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Sparking Imagination: The Art of Creating Books Kids Can't Put Down
Reading With Your Kids Podcast
Get ready for an extraordinary journey into the world of children's literature with two incredible authors who are revolutionizing how kids experience reading! In this episode of Reading with Your Kids, we dive deep into the creative minds of Jon Agee and Robert Gould, who are transforming storytelling in ways you've never imagined. First up, meet Jon Agee and his delightful characters George and Lenny - a bear and a rabbit who explore the meaning of friendship and independence. This charming story isn't just cute; it's a nuanced exploration of how children understand relationships and...
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Science, Ethics, and Faith: Exploring Books That Inspire Young Minds
Reading With Your Kids Podcast
In this captivating episode of Reading with Your Kids, host Jed Doherty takes listeners on an incredible journey through groundbreaking children's books that do more than just entertain - they educate, inspire, and challenge young minds. First up, we explore the remarkable story of J. Robert Oppenheimer through the lens of a middle-grade book that transforms complex historical narratives into accessible learning. Pulitzer Prize-winning author Kai Bird and co-author Eric Singer discuss their collaboration on "Oppenheimer and the Atomic Bomb," a powerful adaptation that introduces young readers...
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Helena Ku Rhee & SJ Engelman: Turning Family Life into Page-Turning Fun
Reading With Your Kids Podcast
Summer Reading Adventures: Discovering Family, Culture, and Imagination Through Children's Books Get ready for an exciting journey into the world of children's literature that will inspire parents, kids, and book lovers everywhere! In this episode of Reading with Your Kids, host Jed Doherty dives into two incredible books that prove reading is about so much more than just turning pages. First up, we meet Helena Ku Rhee, author of "Shoes Off, Please," a heartwarming picture book that explores cultural traditions through a child's eyes. Helena shares how her own childhood experiences of removing...
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Beyond the Stars: Writing Science Fiction for Young Readers
Reading With Your Kids Podcast
In this exciting episode of Reading with Your Kids, host Jed Doherty sits down with two incredible authors, Samantha van Leer and Michelle Barry, who are revolutionizing science fiction for young readers. These talented writers are breaking ground in a genre that's been surprisingly underserved - middle grade sci-fi. Samantha van Leer's "Extraterrestrial Zoo" takes readers on a wild adventure following 13-year-old Ava, who manages a zoo filled with alien creatures after a hurricane releases them into the woods of Maine. Meanwhile, Michelle Barry's "Plotting the Stars" reimagines "The Secret...
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Exploring Science & Emotions With Children's Media
Reading With Your Kids Podcast
Ever wondered how kids can learn complex science concepts while having fun? In this eye-opening episode of Reading with Your Kids, we dive into the fascinating world of educational media and child development with two incredible guests who are changing how we think about learning. First up, Todd Grindal from SRI shares groundbreaking research about how shows like Cat in the Hat can teach preschoolers real scientific principles. Imagine four-year-olds understanding bridge stability and friction through playful television content! The study revealed that children who watched educational...
info_outlineIn 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 their emotions.
The episode then shifts to a powerful conversation with Weshoyot Alvitre, author and illustrator of the picture book "Brave". Alvitre's book courageously addresses the cultural significance of hair in Native American communities, exploring themes of identity, acceptance, and resilience. She shares personal experiences of growing up Native American and the ongoing challenges of cultural preservation.
Both authors emphasize the critical importance of representation in children's literature. They discuss how books can serve as mirrors for children to see themselves, windows to understand others, and sliding glass doors that invite empathy and connection.
Jed Doherty skillfully guides the conversations, exploring topics like mental health awareness, parental communication, and the power of storytelling to heal and educate. The episode offers invaluable insights for parents, educators, and anyone interested in children's literature and cultural understanding.
Listeners will come away inspired by these authors' commitment to creating meaningful, nuanced stories that respect young readers' intelligence and emotional complexity. Whether you're a parent, educator, or simply a lover of good storytelling, this episode is a must-listen.
Don't miss this enlightening exploration of literature, identity, and the incredible power of reading with your kids.
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