Book Club for Kids

Losing is Democratic Jun 22, 2022

As you probably know, we also produce another podcast THE FINA MENDOZA MYSTERIES, an audiodrama designed to introduce elementary school kids to civics. Fina is the 10-year old daughter of a congressman who solves mysteries inside the US Capitol.

After the attack on the Capitol on January 6th of last year, we saw the need to help parents and teachers talk to kids about what happened – without scaring them half to death, and to put the insurrection in some sort of historic context that kids could understand. We created a special episode with curriculum that can be used in the classroom.

Now with the televised congressional hearings looking at the January 6th attack, we’ve again heard from parents looking for ways to have a conversation about January 6th with their kids. So this week, instead of talking about our favorite books, we’re talking about democracy.

There is FREE curriculum to accompany this episode.

More Book Suggestions from City of Stem Jun 15, 2022

Looking for your next great read? Our experts - kids from the City of Stem festival in Downey, California - have a few suggestions for host Kitty Felde.

Bees on the Roof by Robbie Shell Jun 08, 2022

We take the show on the road to the Enoch Pratt Free Library Children's stage at the Baltimore Book Festival for a conversation about Robbie Shell's novel BEES ON THE ROOF. Our group of readers have been meeting to talk about books almost since they first

Favorite Books from Loyola Village Elementary School Jun 01, 2022

What makes a great book? Readers from Loyola Village Elementary School in Los Angeles have some answers.

Eye of the Storm by Kate Messner May 25, 2022

Imagine a world where deadly tornadoes are so common, kids can't ride their bikes outside anymore. That's the future Kate Messner writes about in Eye of the Storm. Students from Belvedere Elementary School in Falls Church, Virginia discuss the book with host Kitty Felde. Laura Furgione, Deputy Director of the National Weather Service is celebrity reader and talks about the science of tornadoes.

A Conversation with Dana Middleton May 18, 2022

Writer Dana Middleton has some advice about finishing a novel or story. She also looks back at the beginning of her writing career.

Not A Unicorn by Dana Middleton May 11, 2022

You think you've got problems? Try being born with the horn of a unicorn in the middle of your head.

Dana Middleton's tale of fitting in and standing out is discussed by students from Louis Armstrong Middle School, Walter Reed Middle School, and Toluca Lake Elementary School. They've got a list of questions for the writer as well.

Pam Rogers, creator of the poetry and nonsense podcast Buttons & Figs is celebrity reader. Kitty Felde is host.

Culver City Favorites May 04, 2022

We return to the Culver City Book Festival to find out what younger kids are reading. Kitty Felde is host.

You can see a list of all their favorite books at the website.

The Poet X by Elizabeth Acevedo Apr 27, 2022

We celebrate National Poetry Month with the National Book Award winning novel The Poet X by Elizabeth Acevedo. Readers from Charles Hart Middle School in Washington DC talk about poetry, MeToo, and favorite books with host Kitty Felde. Celebrity reader is Monica Vigil, who costars in The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast, which launches season 2 on May 3rd.

A Conversation with Jacqueline Davies Apr 20, 2022

How do you get unstuck as a writer? Author Jacqueline Davies talks about how she took a vacation from the YA novel she was working on and wrote The Lemonade War in 19 days just to prove to herself that she could finish a book. Jacqueline also has advice for writers working on a series. Kitty Felde is host.

Free tips for reluctant readers at the website:

www.bookclubforkids.org

The Lemonade War by Jacqueline Davies Apr 13, 2022

Did you ever have a lemonade stand when you were a kid? This particular lemonade stand led to The Lemonade War by Jacqueline Davies. Fifth graders from Loyola Village Elementary School in Los Angeles discuss the book with host Kitty Felde. Actress Linda Graves is celebrity reader.

Favorite Books from City of STEM Apr 06, 2022

Think scientists and math majors are all about numbers? Nope. They're great readers as well. We ask kids at the City of STEM festival at the Columbia Space Center in Downey, California to tell us their favorite books.

Dan Gutman Mar 30, 2022

Writer Dan Gutman talks about his other popular My Wierd School series.

Jackie and Me by Dan Gutman Mar 23, 2022

Interested in baseball? Time travel? Civil rights? Anger management? Readers from Murch Elementary School in Washingotn, D.C. tackle them all in this episode about Dodger legend Jackie Robinson. The book is Dan Gutman’s Jackie & Me, a time travel story that takes us back to 1947 on the night before Jackie’s debut with the Brooklyn Dodgers. Another Dodger legend, two time National League batting champ Tommy Davis is our celebrity reader. He talks about how Jackie Robinson was the one who persuaded him to sign with the Dodgers. Kitty Felde is host.

AJ Steiger Mar 16, 2022

How many rejections did writer A.J. Steiger get before her first book was published? A lot, says A.J. The author talks about rejection, world building, and the very first book she wrote at age 9. Kitty Felde is host.

Cathedral of Bones by A.J. Steiger Mar 09, 2022

What makes us human? Do you believe in reincarnation? How does the loss of family affect us? Our book this week Cathedral of Bones raises so many questions for our readers at Changing Hands bookstore in Tempe, Arizona. Writer A.J. Steiger discusses world building in a fantasy novel. Our celebrity reader is actor Gary Lamb. Kitty Felde is host.

Favorite Books from the Culver City Book Festival Mar 02, 2022

What are kids in Southern California reading these days? Host Kitty Felde takes Book Club for Kids on the road to talk to young readers at the Culver City Book Festival to find out.

Milo Spec Accidental Agent by Linda Urban Feb 23, 2022

Donna Barba Higuera Feb 16, 2022

Kitty Felde talks to the author of Lupe Wong Won't Dance Donna Barba Higuera about creating an unlikeable character. She also gives us a sneak preview of a new science fiction novel she's writing.

Episode 128 Lupe Wong Won't Dance Feb 09, 2022

Does square dancing count as an athletic activity? Lupe Wong doesn't think so and is willing to fight the system to make her point. Readers from Charles Hart Middle School in Washington, DC discuss the book with host Kitty Felde and interview the writer Donna Barba Higuera. Our celebrity reader is the former president of United Square Dancers of America.

A Conversation with Shannon Messenger Feb 02, 2022

Thinking of writing a series? We ask New York Times bestselling writer Shannon Messenger about the 101 things a series writer has to think about. Kitty Felde is host.

Keeper of the Lost Cities by Shannon Messenger Jan 26, 2022

Whatever happened to Atlantis? To elves? To magic? This week, readers from St. Elizabeth School in Maryland discuss Shannon Messenger's fantasy adventure Keeper of the Lost Cities. The girls ask our writer to pick her favorite characters, something she hates to do. Our celebrity reader is KPCC's All Things Considered host Nick Roman. Kitty Felde is host.

A Conversation with writer Jasmine Warga Jan 19, 2022

Writing a novel is hard enough, why would a writer choose to write one in verse? We continue our conversation with Jasmine Warga, author of Other Words for Home. She also tackles the topic of Own Voices in her choice to write about a family of Syrian refugees.

Other Words For Home by Jasmine Warga Jan 12, 2022

Kids from Washington, DC consider life as a refugee as they discuss the Newbery-Honor winner Other Words For Home by Jasmine Warga. Readers from Tyler Elementary School talk about learning a new language, moving away from home, and even non-verbal communication in an era of wearing masks. Our celebrity reader is Sarra Gahzi, Country Director for Jordan with the International Rescue Committee. Kitty Felde is host.

FYI, here's a link to curriculum for last week's episode, "Losing is Democratic."

Losing is Democratic Part Two THE FINA MENDOZA MYSTERIES Jan 05, 2022

Something a little different this week. As we approach January 6th, parents and teachers may be looking for a way to discuss the attack on the U.S. Capitol with children. Our other podcast THE FINA MENDOZA MYSTERIES created this special 2-part episode to help open a discussion about the events, without scaring kids.

In this episode, 10-year-old detective Fina Mendoza, the daughter of a congressman, has a new mystery to solve: who stole the 5th grade's pizza? Her class discusses the attack with their teacher, putting it in a larger context about winning and losing.

The episode includes a discussion about the electoral college, Washington's decision to not run for a third term, and how democracy is like baseball.

Free curriculum at the website finamendozamysteries.com.

Losing is Democratic Part One Bonus Episode of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast Dec 29, 2021

Something a little different this week and next. As we approach January 6th, parents and teachers may be looking for a way to discuss the attack on the U.S. Capitol with children. Our other podcast THE FINA MENDOZA MYSTERIES created this special 2-part episode to help open a discussion about the events, without scaring kids.

In this episode, 10-year-old detective Fina Mendoza, the daughter of a congressman, has a new mystery to solve: who stole the 5th grade's pizza? Her class discusses the attack with their teacher, putting it in a larger context about winning and losing. The episode includes a discussion about the electoral college, Washington's decision to not run for a third term, and how democracy is like baseball.

Free curriculum at the website finamendozamysteries.com.

Jerry Craft on Writing Dec 22, 2021

Newbery Award-winning writer Jerry Craft confesses that he was not much of a reader as a kid. But he wanted to create a book for kids like him. He talks about which comes first in his graphic novels, the pictures or the words. He tells host Kitty Felde how to write a joke in four panels.

New Kid by Jerry Craft Dec 15, 2021

We're so excited to talk about the Newbery Award-winning graphic novel New Kid by Jerry Craft. Students at Randle Highland Elementary School in Washington, DC debate whether they'd rather go to a fancy pants school on the other side of town, or the school in their own neighborhood. Actor Gary Anthony Williams is celebrity reader. Kitty Felde is host.

Favorite Books from Hope Christian School in Albuquerque Dec 08, 2021

What makes a book personal to you? We talk to a group of readers from Albuquerque, New Mexico about the books that mean something special to them. Kitty Felde is host.

Orbiting Jupiter by Gary D. Schmidt Dec 01, 2021

Get out the Kleenex and a warm jacket and gloves. This week is a heartbreaking tale of troubled foster kid who finds comfort among a herd of cows in Maine. Readers from Carter G. Woodson Charter School in Chicago discuss Orbiting Jupiter by Gary D. Schmidt. U.S. Senator Angus King is celebrity reader. Kitty Felde is host.

A Conversation About Writing Collaboratively with Saadia Faruqi and Laura Shovan Nov 24, 2021

How do you write a novel together without destroying a friendship? We ask the writers of "A Place at the Table," Saadia Faruqi and Laura Shovan.

A Conversation About Writing Collaboratively with Saadia Faruqi and Laura Shovan Nov 24, 2021

How do you write a novel together without destroying a friendship? We ask the writers of "A Place at the Table," Saadia Faruqi and Laura Shovan.

A Place at the Table by Saadia Faruqi and Laura Shovan Nov 17, 2021

What does it mean to be an ally? How do you confront racism face to face? What's it like to be the child of an immigrant? And can food bring people together? We talk about it all with a trio of students from Columbia Heights Educational Campus in Washington, DC. Writers Saadia Faruqi and Laura Shovan answer questions about writers block from our readers. Our celebrity reader is USA Today journalist Tami Abdollah. Kitty Felde is host.

Bonus: Lots of Wimpy Kid and Minecraft Nov 10, 2021

Got a favorite book? Need a great book to read next? These fourth graders from Cienega Elementary School in Los Angeles have LOTS of suggestions.

Beautiful Creatures by Kami Garcia and Margaret Stohl Nov 03, 2021

Want to keep that Halloween feeling going? We offer a Southern tale of witches and spooky houses. And the Civil War. It's Beautiful Creatures by Kami Garcia and Margaret Stohl. We're lucky to have DC's Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton as our celebrity reader. Students from Washington DC's Jefferson Academy discuss the novel with host Kitty Felde.

Bonus: Dia de los Muertos - Day of the Dead Nov 01, 2021

Today and Tuesday are special days in the Catholic and Mexican calendar: Dia de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead. As an added bonus episode of Book Club for Kids, we wanted to share this snippet from our other podcast The Fina Mendoza Mysteries. It's the story of a 10-year-old detective on Capitol Hill, but it's also a family story about coming to terms with the death of Fina's mother. In this mini-episode, Fina and her sister Gabby and grandmother Abuelita remember her on Dia de los Muertos.

There is also free curriculum that accompanies this episode.

A Conversation with Pseudonymous Bosch Oct 27, 2021

He's known as Pseudonymous Bosch, but writer Rafael Simon talks to us about structuring a series and how he considers himself both a plotter AND a pantser. Kitty Felde is host.

The Name of This Book is Secret by Pseudonymous Bosch Oct 20, 2021

Would you like to live forever? When is it okay to lie? How do we prepare for a disaster? These and other big questions are tackled by students at Farmdale Elementary School in Los Angeles as they discuss The Name of This Book is Secret by Pseudonymous Bosch. Actress Satomi Hofmann is celebrity reader. Kitty Felde is host.

www.bookclubforkids.org

Favorite Books from California Oct 13, 2021

The 4th and 5th graders in the Bookopolis Book Club meet weekly to discuss, share, and celebrate their love of books. They share some of their favorites with us.

Hypatia Academy by Esther Goldenberg Oct 06, 2021

Did Harry Potter make you wish you were going to boarding school? This week, we visit another extraordinary boarding school with invisible students and k'lepreechons. It's Hypatia Academy by Esther Goldenberg. It's the favorite book of this trio of Maryland readers. NPR's Morning Edition host Rachel Martin is celebrity reader. Kitty Felde is host.

www.bookclubforkids.org

An Interview with Canadian Writer Gina McMurchy-Barber Sep 29, 2021

Is there a connection between archeology and writing? Writer Gina McMurchy-Barber digs deep with host Kitty Felde.

www.bookclubforkids.org

The Jigsaw Puzzle King Sep 22, 2021

Suppose you had a sibling with Down Syndrome? How would this change your life? That's the question in The Jigsaw Puzzle King by Gina McMurchy-Barber. Readers from Hamilton Wentworth District School Board Remote School in Ontario, Canada discuss the book and discuss the merits of peanut butter and pickle sandwiches.

We're joined by celebrity reader Tammy McLeod, who just broke the Guinness World Record for speed, solving a jigsaw puzzle. Kitty Felde is host.

Bonus Sherri L. Smith Sep 15, 2021

Where do ideas come from? Writer Sherri L. Smith shares some of the things that inspired her writing. She also has some advice for young writers. Kitty Felde is host.

Orleans by Sherri L. Smith Sep 08, 2021

Hurricanes and pandemics - sounds like the latest headlines. But it's a dystopian novel by Sherri L. Smith called Orleans. Readers from the Benjamin D. Foulois Creative and Performing Arts Academy in Maryland discuss the book with host Kitty Felde and talk about why dystopian novels are so popular with young readers. Public radio journalist Cheryl Devall is celebrity reader.

More episodes at bookclubforkids.org

Back to School Special Sep 01, 2021

Book Club for Kids wants to send you back to school with some inspiration from kidcasters from around the country. In this special bonus episode, you'll get a taste of what's available for young ears, produced by our colleagues at Kids Listen, a collaborative of creators of content for kids.

A Conversation with Christina Soontornvat Aug 25, 2021

Attention fantasy writers: Christina Soontornvat, whose novel A Wish in the Dark offers some tips about world building in a mythical Thailand.

More author interviews at www.bookclubforkids.org.

A Wish in the Dark by Christina Soontornvat Aug 18, 2021

This week, readers at The Meridian School in Seattle discuss Christina Soontornvat's unusual novel A Wish in the Dark and interview the author. Actress Pimmie Juntranggur is celebrity reader. Kitty Felde is host.

You can find a list of everyone's favorite book and find out how your young reader can be on the show at the website www.bookclubforkids.org.

Favorite Books from Around the World Aug 11, 2021

Looking for some great end-of-summer book suggestions? Kids from around the world have some great suggestions. Kitty Felde is host.

Complete list of books at www.bookclubforkids.org.

The Shadows by Jacqueline West Aug 04, 2021

Looking for a late summer thriller? We discuss the first book in Jacqueline West's Books of Elsewhere series The Shadows with the Girlfriends BookClub Baltimore. Public radio journalist Doualy Xaykaothao is celebrity reader. Kitty Felde is host.

Free reading tips at the website: bookclubforkids.org.

A Conversation with Writer Veera Hiranandani Jul 28, 2021

Veera Hiranandani explains why she chose to use diary entries to tell her story in The Night Diary and offers tips to young people about how to get their older relatives to open up about their life stories. Kitty Felde is host.

The Night Diary by Veera Hiranandani Jul 21, 2021

What would you bring with you if you had to leave your home forever? It's just one of the topics we discuss with readers from Tyler Elementary School in Washington, D.C. as we tackle The Night Diary by Veera Hiranandani. It's a novel written as a diary about the creation of independent India and Pakistan. Our celebrity reader is actress Nivi Varanasi. Kitty Felde is host.

Favorite Books from the National Archives Jul 14, 2021

We ask kids and their parents to answer our favorite question: what's your favorite book? Listen for some great summer reading suggestions!

A Little Wicked Jul 07, 2021

We reprise our episode taped before a live audience at the National Archives. Readers from the Girlfriends BookClub Baltimore discuss A Little Wicked by Janet Macreery with host Kitty Felde. Celebrity reader is NPR Special Correspondent Susan Stamberg.

Bonus Geoff Rodkey Jun 30, 2021

Geoff Rodkey is both a successful screenwriter and writer of books for kids. Including "We're Not From Here." He talks about the difference between writing screenplays and novels, about science fiction, and about creating non-binary characters. Kitty Felde is host.

Lots more interviews with authors at the website www.bookclubforkids.org.

Were Not from Here by Geoff Rodkey Jun 23, 2021

Earth is doomed, so a band of survivors is looking for a friendly planet to save them. But our earthling reputation isn't so great. Will they be allowed to stay? Readers from Maury Elementary School discuss Geoff Rodkey's We're Not From Here. Our celebrity readers is Mat Kaplan, host of Planetary Radio. Kitty Felde is host.

Free reading tips: www.bookclubforkids.org

Favorite Books from Nantucket Jun 16, 2021

We get book suggestions from readers at the Nantucket Book Festival.

www.bookclubforkids.org

Old Yeller Jun 09, 2021

Pets play such an important part in our lives and the loss of an animal creates a hole in our hearts. The Newbery Honor award winning classic Old Yeller by Fred Gipson does the same thing. We hear from a trio of fifth graders from Lafayette Elementary School in Washington, DC who talk about their own pets. Actor and dancer Michael McKinley is celebrity reader. Dog expert Mia Cobb from Australia joins us. Kitty Felde is host.

www.bookclubforkids.org

A Conversation with Meg Medina Jun 02, 2021

How long does it take to publish a book? Newbery award winning writer Meg Medina says most of her time is spent rewriting and rewriting.

More conversations with writers at our website www.bookclubforkids.org.

Yaqui Delgado Wants to Kick Your Ass by Meg Medina May 26, 2021

Book Club for Kids goes to Hooray For Books! bookstore in Alexandria, Virginia to talk about Meg Medina's novel about bullying and mother-daughter relationships Yaqui Delgado Wants to Kick Your Ass. Our celebrity reader is National Public Radio Arts Correspondent Mandalit Del Barco. Writer Meg Medina discusses the writing process with a pair of aspiring writers, Lila and Julia. Kitty Felde is the host.

www.bookclubforkids.org

A Conversation with Writer Rob Buyea May 19, 2021

We continue the conversation with writer Rob Buyea about how his experiences as a classroom teacher influenced his writing of "Because of Mr. Terupt." Kitty Felde is host.

www.bookclubforkids.org

Episode 119 - Because of Mr. Terupt by Rob Buyea May 12, 2021

Were you lucky enough to have one special teacher who changed your life? This week, our book is all about that gifted educator and the classroom that was lucky enough to have him: "Because of Mr. Terupt" by Rob Buyea. Readers from Harmony Township Elementary School in New Jersey talk about their own teachers - and about learning in this socially distanced/hybrid/covid school year. They also interview author Rob Buyea. Actor Garrett M. Brown is celebrity reader. Kitty Felde is host.

Reading tips, book suggestions, and more at our website www.bookclubforkids.org

May the Fourth Be With You The Strange Case of Origami Yoda May 04, 2021

We celebrate the Star Wars national holiday May the Fourth with our favorite Star Wars episode The Strange Case of Origami Yoda by Tom Angleberger. Cartoonist Lalo Alcaraz is celebrity reader. Kitty Felde is host.

www.bookclubforkids.org

Favorite Books from the Baltimore Book Festival Apr 28, 2021

We miss book festivals! It's the best place to meet authors, fellow book lovers, and come home with a stack of books and pages of great book suggestions. This week, we turn back the clock to 2015 for our visit to the Baltimore Book Festival for some terrific book suggestions.

And if you're looking for a book festival this weekend, join host Kitty Felde at the virtual Literary Hill BookFest. She's on a panel with LBJ's granddaughter to talk about the power of children's literature to dismantle divisions.

Sunday, May 2

noon eastern time

Here's the link: https://www.literaryhillbookfest.org/

Flying the Dragon Apr 21, 2021

The pink blooms on the cherry trees are fading in Washington, DC. And the Cherry Blossom Festival is virtual this year. But you can still fly a kite. Or fight with a kite. That's the battle in Flying the Dragon by Natalie Dias Lorenzi. We reprise this episode taped live at Hooray for Books! bookstore in Alexandria, Virginia where Natalie joined our young readers and answered their questions. Congressman Mark Takano is celebrity reader. Kitty Felde is host.

www.bookclubforkids.org

Passenger on the Pearl by Winifred Conkling Apr 14, 2021

The Book Club for Kids podcast began in the smallest quadrant of Washington DC called Southwest. It was the waterfront for DC, the place where ships would dock bringing everything from building supplies to fresh fish to slaves. This week marks the 173rd anniversary of what Washington Post writer Colbert King calls "one of the most courageous acts in antebellum America": the attempted escape of African American slaves on a ship docked at the Southwest waterfront, a ship called the Pearl.

This week, Book Club for Kids honors its roots by reprising our one episode featuring a non fiction book: Passenger on the Pearl by Winifred Conkling, taped before a live audience at Virginia's Fall for the Book Festival. Lolita Marie is our celebrity reader.

www.bookclubforkids.org

A Conversation with New Zealand Writer Brian Falkner Apr 07, 2021

Are children's writers different than those who write for adults? New Zealand Brian Falkner has a few thoughts. He also shares his techniques for organizing his stories and talks about creating the next generation of young writers. Kitty Felde is host.

More author interviews at the website www.bookclubforkids.org.

Shooting Stars by Brian Falkner Mar 31, 2021

Do you have a code for the way you live your life? Egan does. And the world wants to follow it. Egan has spent most of his life in the New Zealand bush. Can he survive the modern world and keep to his own code? That's our book Shooting Stars by Brian Falkner.

Readers from Southwell School in Hamilton, New Zealand discuss the book and ask questions of writer Brian Falkner. New Zealand's Ambassador to the United States Rosemary Banks is our celebrity reader. Kitty Felde is host.

Find out how you can be on the show. Visit our website: www.bookclubforkids.org.

Favorite Books from New Jersey and Illinois Mar 24, 2021

Running out of good books to read? We're here to help. This week, we hear great book suggestions about tigers, horses, a sinking ship, and more! And we tell you how you can be on the show, too.

www.bookclubforkids.org

Hound of Rowan Mar 17, 2021

Read all the Harry Potter books? Looking for your next great fantasy novel? This week, we discuss The Hound of Rowan by Henry Neff. Jamari and Steven at Jefferson Middle School Academy in Washington, D.C. are our readers. D.C. City Councilman Charles Allen is celebrity reader. Writer Henry Neff takes questions from readers across the country.

www.bookclubforkids.org

Favorite Books from Southwell School New Zealand Mar 10, 2021

Ever wonder what kinds of books kids halfway across the world like to read? We've got the answers from readers in Hamilton, New Zealand. Kitty Felde is host.

www.bookclubforkids.org

And check out The Fina Menoza Mysteries podcast!

Episode 117 - The Face on the Milk Carton by Caroline Cooney Mar 03, 2021

Did you ever wonder if your parents were really your parents? Maybe you were kidnapped.That’s a question facing Janey in the book “The Face on the Milk Carton” by Caroline Cooney. Readers from New Los Angeles Middle School have a lively discussion about best friends, parenting skills, and writing. Actor Peter Michael McDonald is celebrity reader. Kitty Felde is host.

Note: the book and the discussion touch on the topic of sex. Our readers suggest it’s appropriate for seventh graders and older students.

www.bookclubforkids.org

Christopher Paul Curtis Feb 24, 2021

A conversation about writing with Newbery Award winning author Christopher Paul Curtis about "The Watsons Go to Birmingham, 1963," writing in libraries and donut shops, and creating a soundtrack for writing.

www.bookclubforkids.org

The Watsons Go to Birmingham 1963 with an interview with Christopher Paul Curtis Feb 17, 2021

"The Watsons Go to Birmingham, 1963” touches on a tragic moment in American history: the bombing of the 16th Street Baptist Church. But it’s really a family story about a road trip. Readers from Two Rivers Public Charter School in Washington, DC discuss the novel with host Kitty Felde. On the 25th anniversary of the book's publication, writer Christopher Paul Curtis tells us the first title of the book. Our celebrity reader is actor Quinn Marchman.

Free curriculum at the website www.bookclubforkids.org

Favorite Books from Brooklyn and Los Angeles Feb 10, 2021

We hear from readers who share their favorite books. You can, too! Just record yourself on the voice memo app of your smartphone, telling us your FIRST NAME, city where you live, the name of your favorite book, and WHY YOU LOVE IT. Email the file to us at bookclubforkidspodcast@gmail.com. And you can be on the show.

www.bookclubforkids.org

Episode 116 - Roll of Thunder Hear My Cry by Mildred D Taylor Feb 03, 2021

We turn back the clock to a difficult period of history in Jim Crow America. The book is the Newbery award winner "Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry" by Mildred D. Taylor. Readers from Immaculate Heart Catholic School discuss the difference between present-day Bronx and the south of the 1930's. Actress Tracy Leigh is celebrity reader. Literary historian Dr. Dianne Johnson-Feelings of the University of South Carolina offers her perspective on the author.

www.bookclubforkids.org

Favorite Books from Alisal Elementary School Jan 27, 2021

Students from Alisal Elementary School in Alisal Elementary School in Pleasanton, California have a few favorite books to share with you. Also, information about how your students can star on the show.

www.bookclubforkids.org

Red Queen by Victoria Aveyard Jan 20, 2021

It’s Victoria Aveyard’s Red Queen. And it was the choice of a group of 7th graders from Newport Middle School in Maryland. Writer Victoria Aveyard talks about the difference between writing books and writing screenplays. Our celebrity reader, NPR’s Renee Montagne, brings to life our lightning girl Mare who is decidedly not excited about becoming a princess. Kitty Felde is host.

www.bookclubforkids.org

A Conversation with writer Varsha Bajaj Jan 13, 2021

Writer Varsha Bajaj talks to Kitty Felde about the connection between therapy and writing and the importance of having another set of eyes on a developing manuscript.

www.bookclubforkids.org

Episode 115 - Count Me In by Varsha Bajaj Jan 06, 2021

“Count Me In” by Varsha Bajaj looks at the power of social media to combat hate. The story involves a hate crime: an attack on an Indian American family and how that changes a shy girl named Karina and the boy next door who used to hang out with what the grandfather called a pack of hyenas. Our readers are 5th graders from PS 174 in Queens, New York and they interview our author. Our celebrity reader is public radio journalist Deepa Fernandes. Kitty Felde is host.

www.bookclubforkids.org

Favorite Books from 2020 Dec 30, 2020

As we look forward to a better 2021, we look back at the great book suggestions made by the kids who appeared on Book Club for Kids last year. This episode full of terrific titles that so reflect this past year, whether it’s the social justice issues of Black Lives Matter or a need to escape the realities of covid. It’s our end of the year gift to you faithful Book Club for Kids listeners. Thank you.

www.bookclubforkids.org

Bonus Christmas 2020 Dec 23, 2020

In a year when we can't gather together to celebrate the holidays, we offer a special bonus episode: a tale of Christmas in Washington from our other podcast The Fina Mendoza Mysteries.

Moo by Sharon Creech Dec 16, 2020

These chilly December nights remind us of Maine, which is the location of this week's reprise episode "Moo" by Sharon Creech. Readers from Tyler Elementary School in Washington, DC recount their tales of cows they've met and we meet a cow expert, dairy farmer and Congressman David Valadao of California. Kitty Felde is host.

A Conversation with Edward Bloor Dec 09, 2020

Writer Edward Bloor talks about the biggest lesson he learned about writing and how to handle criticism with host Kitty Felde.

Episode 114 - Tangerine by Edward Bloor Dec 02, 2020

A story about family divisions, economic divides, history, and growing citrus trees. It’s “Tangerine” by Edward Bloor. Our readers from the Laurence School in Los Angeles discuss the novel and interview our writer. Actress Jovita Molina is celebrity reader. Kitty Felde is host.

www.bookclubforkids.org

A Conversation with Holly Goldberg Sloan Nov 25, 2020

Writer Holly Goldberg Sloan talks about story construction, the difference between film and fiction, and describes her very unconventional childhood with host Kitty Felde.

More author interviews at www.bookclubforkids.org.

Counting by 7's by Holly Goldberg Sloan Nov 18, 2020

What is a family? Willow Chance loves her adoptive parents. After they're killed in an accident, she helps create a new, very unusual family. Eighth graders from Roanoke Catholic School in Virginia discuss Holly Goldberg Sloan's New York Times best-selling novel "Counting By 7's" with host Kitty Felde. Actress Jo Mei reads from the book. Holly shares a secret about the book that she only shares when she makes classroom visits.

www.bookclubforkids.org

Barbara OConnor on Teaching Kids to Write Nov 11, 2020

Writer Barbara O'Connor, author of last week's episode "Wish," talks to Kitty Felde about her technique of teaching writing to kids. She also talks about her own writing journey and why 4th graders are her ideal audience.

More interviews with writers of childrens books at our website www.bookclubforkids.org/writers-on-writing.

Episode 113 - Wish by Barbara OConnor Nov 04, 2020

Do you wish upon a star? Or just when you’re blowing out birthday candles? Our book is full of ideas about how to make wishes. In fact, that’s the title of the book: “Wish” by Barbara O’Connor. Actress and playwright Dianna Burbano is celebrity reader. Our readers are from Multnomah Elementary School in Los Angeles. Kitty Felde is host.

Free reading tips at the website BookClubforKids.org.

James Nicol on Writing Oct 30, 2020

James Nicol is the author of "The Apprentice Witch" which we discussed on the show. Now, he shares his thoughts on getting up the courage to share your work with the rest of the world.

www.bookclubforkids.org

Bonus Episode - Favorite Books from Iowa and Sweden Oct 28, 2020

We get some great book suggestions from Sweden and from the Ottumwa Public Library's Middle School Book Club. You can be on the show, too! Check out our website www.bookclubforkids.org.

The Apprentice Witch by James Nicol Oct 21, 2020

Think becoming a witch is easy? Think again. Readers from Changing Hands bookstore in Phoenix discuss James Nicol's tale of becoming a professional witch called "The Apprentice Witch." Our celebrity reader is public radio journalist (and amateur ice hockey player) Susan Valot. Our writer talks about how he created the rules for his magical world and confesses that he wasn't much of a reader when he was young. Kitty Felde is host.

www.bookclubforkids.org

Angela Dominguez Talks About Writing and Illustrating Books for Children Oct 14, 2020

Angela Dominguez writes and illustrates the Stella Diaz series. She talks to us about her writing path from drawing to writing.

More author interviews at our website.

Episode 112 - Stella Diaz Has Something to Say by Angela Dominguez Oct 07, 2020

Are you a little shy? Is it hard to speak up in class or introduce yourself to strangers? That pretty much describes our main character in this episode’s book “Stella Diaz Has Something to Say” by Angela Dominguez. Readers at Canoga Park Elementary School talk about bullies, learning a new language, and speaking up. Actress Alejandra Ramos is celebrity reader. Kitty Felde is host.

Find out how you can be on the show at:

www.bookclubforkids.org

A Preview of "Let Kids Vote!" Sep 30, 2020

Looking for a way to talk about the upcoming election without getting into the ugliness of politics?

Our other podcast THE FINA MENDOZA MYSTERIES has a special two-part election episode coming out next week. It's designed to inspire the next generation of voters to become civicly engaged NOW.

The episode features a real-life congressman - Mark Takano (D-CA) - who takes questions from our fictional characters.

Here's a preview.

Subscribe now to THE FINA MENDOZA MYSTERIES.

The Worst Class Trip Ever by Dave Barry Sep 23, 2020

Did your class field trip to DC get cancelled? No worries, we'll take you on "The Worst Class Trip Ever" with writer Dave Barry. Kids from Washington debunk the stereotypes folks outside the beltway have about their hometown. Congressman Jeff Denham of California is celebrity reader. Dave Barry talks about why he's funny. Kitty Felde is host.

Find out how you can be on the show: bookclubforkids.org

Favorite Books from England and Ireland Sep 16, 2020

Running out of book suggestions? We ask kids in England and Ireland to share their favorite book titles. We also tell you how you can be on the show. Kitty Felde is host.

bookclubforkids.org

The Struggle: Mom and the Summertime Blues Sep 09, 2020

How did you spend your summer? Did you write a book? That's what the Smith girls did. This week, we discuss "The Struggle: Mom and the Summertime Blues" by Patrice, Donna, Shannon, Charity, and Faith Smith. Our readers are budding writers themselves from the Girlfriends Book Club Baltimore and our celebrity reader is actress Makeda Declet. Kitty Felde is host.

www.bookclubforkids.org

Bonus Episode Virtual Book Clubs with School Librarians United Sep 02, 2020

This is an episode for teachers, librarians and parents.

Book Club for Kids host Kitty Felde was invited to share some tips about starting your own virtual book club by the School Librarians United podcast. We thought it could give you some ideas about starting your own virtual book club.

Amy Hermon of School Librarians United thanks composer Nazar Rybak at Hooksounds.com for the music you’ve heard today.

https://www.facebook.com/SchoolLibrariansUnited/

bookclubforkids.org

Twitter: @BookClubforKids or @kittyfelde

Crenshaw by Katherine Applegate Aug 26, 2020

We are always thrilled when a middle grade novel is turned into a movie and this month, Katherine Applegate’s tale of a very special gorilla THE ONE AND ONLY IVAN began airing on Disney Plus. We love Katherine Applegate. In fact, we talked to her a couple of years ago about another of her books about another wonderful animal: an invisible cat. So here’s to you, Katherine Applegate: we reprise our episode of Crenshaw.

The book is the story of a family on the verge of becoming homeless. Our student readers from Gunston Middle School talk about their own experiences volunteering at a homeless shelter. Actor Rodney Lizcano from the Denver Theater Center is our celebrity reader. Kitty Felde is host.

Bonus Favorite Books from England Aug 19, 2020

Overseas travel may be impossible this summer...at least in person. But we take a virtual trip to Great Britain to find out what kids in England are reading. Kitty Felde is host.

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