Reading With Your Kids Podcast

Latest Episodes:

Singing, Dancing & Joyful Storytelling! Aug 02, 2024

Show notes

In this episode, we had the pleasure of chatting with two talented children's book authors, Alice Faye Duncan and Adib Khorram. Alice shared her brand new book, "I Gotta Sing," which is a delightful story about a baby who sings with barnyard animals to avoid bath time. She infused the book with the joy and energy of African American spirituals and Delta Blues, creating an interactive and engaging experience for young readers.

Alice spoke passionately about the importance of bringing joy and happiness to children through her writing. She believes that each of us has a responsibility to spread joy and positivity, especially in a world that can sometimes feel heavy and overwhelming. The vibrant illustrations in "I Gotta Sing" perfectly capture this spirit of joy and movement, making it a book that kids (and their parents) will want to read again and again.

We also got to know Adib Khorram and his new book, "Bijan Always Wins," which explores the competitive nature of childhood. Adib drew inspiration from his own experiences as a child, when he was obsessed with winning at everything, from video games to tying his shoes. He shared how this theme of winning and losing is something that is often ingrained in us from a very young age, and how it can shape our identities and relationships.

Throughout the conversation, both authors emphasized the power of storytelling to connect people, foster empathy, and bring more light into the world. Whether it's through the uplifting spirituals in "I Gotta Sing" or the relatable struggles of a young boy in "Bijan Always Wins," these books have the potential to make a lasting impact on the lives of young readers.

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Navigating Loss, Friendship, and the Supernatural in Middle-Grade Fiction Aug 01, 2024

Show notes

In this episode of the Reading with Your Kids podcast, host Jed Doherty chats with three children's book authors about their latest works. First up is Kimberley Lovato, who discusses her new picture book "Pisa Loves Bella." The story follows the story of Bella, the beloved tower in Pisaa who learns to embrace her unique qualities after hearing unkind words about her appearance. Lovato shares how her own experiences with teasing inspired the book's themes of kindness, empathy, and the impact of words on children.

Next, Jed speaks with Frank Payne about his "Webster the Beagle" book series. Payne's latest installment, "Webster the Beagle and his Adventures at the River," focuses on the therapy dog's encounters with various river-dwelling creatures like ospreys, crabs, and oysters. Payne explains how he uses these animal interactions to educate young readers through fun facts and illustrations.

Finally, Jed interviews debut middle-grade author Lindsay Hobson about her spooky novel "The Girl in the Window." Hobson's 12-year-old protagonist, Izzy, must confront a mysterious girl after accidentally breaking a window. Hobson discusses the appeal of middle-grade horror, as well as the themes of loss, grief, and family dynamics that are explored in the book.

Throughout the episode, the guests share insights on the joys and challenges of traveling with kids, the importance of learning new languages, and the power of children's literature to foster empathy, curiosity, and meaningful conversations. Whether you're a parent, educator, or simply a lover of great storytelling, this episode of Reading with Your Kids is sure to inspire you to pick up a new book and share it with the young readers in your life.

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Navigating the Online Dangers: How to Have Crucial Conversations with Kids About Sex Trafficking Jul 30, 2024

Show notes

In this episode of the Reading with Your Kids podcast, host Jed Doherty sits down with Heidi Chance, a retired human trafficking detective, to discuss the alarming issue of sex trafficking and how parents can protect their children. Chance shares her firsthand experiences investigating these crimes, highlighting the evolving nature of the problem, with traffickers targeting younger and younger victims, often through online grooming and manipulation.

The conversation delves into the tactics used by traffickers, who leverage social media and technology to identify and exploit vulnerable children. Chance emphasizes the importance of open communication between parents and kids, encouraging them to have difficult but necessary conversations about online safety, recognizing "tricky people," and the dangers of sharing personal information or inappropriate content.

Jed and Chance also discuss the role of law enforcement in addressing human trafficking, and Chance's efforts to educate both the public and fellow officers on this critical issue. The episode touches on the significance of building strong relationships with children through activities like reading, which can foster trust and open dialogue about sensitive topics.

Throughout the discussion, the hosts emphasize the need for increased awareness, proactive prevention, and a community-based approach to combating the scourge of human trafficking. By arming parents with knowledge and resources, this episode aims to empower families to protect their children and create a safer, more inclusive world for all. We also speak with authors Jen Kirkley and Tradara McLaurine. Jen tells us about her kids' book Willard DoGooder and the Trail of Friends and Tradara celebrates her book I Want A Nickname.

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Connecting Kids To Culture, Nature & Creatiivity Jul 28, 2024

Show notes

In this episode, we had the pleasure of speaking with three talented children's book authors who are using their creative talents to inspire young readers.

First, we chatted with Marie Tang, the author of the new children's book "Baba's Peach Tree." Marie shared how the story was inspired by her personal experiences living in China and witnessing the sacrifices made by migrant workers to provide for their families. The book explores themes of cultural dynamics, family roots, and the importance of empathy and understanding different perspectives.

Next, we spoke with Tricia Gardella, the author of the "Mouse Traveler" book series. Tricia's books follow a mouse named Max who travels to different national parks, introducing young readers to the wonders of America's natural treasures. Tricia discussed her passion for national parks and her goal of preserving them for future generations, as well as her creative process for bringing these stories to life.

Finally, we were joined by Nicola Worswick, the author and illustrator of the "Scat the Cat" book series. Nicola shared how her own experiences with dyslexia as a child inspired her to create engaging, character-driven stories that also help build confidence in young artists. She discussed her process of developing the mischievous yet lovable cat character and the importance of using storytelling to turn negative experiences into positive ones.

Throughout the episode, the authors emphasized the power of children's literature to foster cultural understanding, spark curiosity about the world, and empower young readers to embrace their creativity and individuality. Their passion for their craft was evident, and their stories are sure to delight and inspire readers of all ages.

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Spooky Stories & Meatball Mysteries Jul 26, 2024

Show notes

In this episode of "Reading with Your Kids," host Jed Doherty welcomes back author Rob Renzetti to discuss the second book in his spooky middle-grade trilogy, "The Twisted Tower of Endless Torment." Renzetti shares his excitement for writing the sequel, explaining how he had a clear vision for the series even before the first book was published.

Renzetti talks about the challenges of meeting the publisher's deadlines, but how he ultimately decided to release the books in the summer to coincide with the Halloween season, as the stories have a delightfully creepy vibe. Jed and Renzetti bond over their shared love of horror movies and how they've used spooky content to connect with their kids.

The conversation then shifts to Renzetti's background in animation, including his time at the prestigious CalArts program and his early career working on shows like "Batman: The Animated Series." Renzetti offers advice for aspiring authors and illustrators, emphasizing the importance of creating content that you personally enjoy.

Later, Jed introduces author Sandy Whiting, who discusses her new middle-grade book, "Meatball Man Head Detective: Case of the Missing Pepper Shaker." Whiting shares the fun, imaginative origins of the story, which she developed with her own children. They explore the role of speech therapy and language development, and how Whiting's work as a speech-language pathologist has influenced her creative writing.

With a mix of engaging interviews, practical advice, and a touch of spooky fun, this episode of "Reading with Your Kids" is sure to delight listeners of all ages.

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From the Andes to Inner Mongolia: Celebrating Unique Voices in Kids' Books Jul 25, 2024

Show notes

In this episode of "Reading with Your Kids," host Jed Doherty welcomes a diverse group of authors to discuss their latest children's books and share insights on literacy, education, and the power of storytelling.

First up is Karol Hernandez, who celebrates her vibrant picture book "I Am Lachiva, the Colorful Bus of the Andes." Karol shares the cultural significance of the iconic Chiva buses in Colombia, describing their bright colors, unique designs, and vital role in rural transportation. She also discusses the challenges of translating a rhyming book into Spanish and the importance of authenticity in her work.

Next, Dawn Young joins the conversation to talk about her book "Little Cub's. Big List,. Fun with Sight Words." As a former teacher, Dawn emphasizes the importance of making learning engaging and fun for young readers. She shares creative ways for parents to help their children practice sight words, from games and activities to hands-on experiences.

Jin Wang then introduces her illustrated memoir "Born Naughty," which offers a glimpse into her childhood in the remote and desolate region of Inner Mongolia, China. Jin's story highlights the resilience and resourcefulness of her community, who survived without modern amenities by growing their own food and relying on the natural world around them.

Throughout the episode, the authors and Doherty discuss the power of literacy, the role of creativity in education, and the importance of being a reading role model for children. They also touch on the work of Clowns Without Borders, a nonprofit organization that brings joy to communities in need.

This episode of "Reading with Your Kids" is a must-listen for parents, educators, and anyone interested in the world of children's literature. With its diverse range of guests and engaging discussions, it offers valuable insights and inspiration for fostering a love of reading in young minds.

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From Refugee Camps to the Page: Exploring Identity, Trauma, and Joy Jul 23, 2024

Show notes

In this captivating episode of the Reading with Your Kids podcast, host Jed Doherty sits down with two remarkable guests who are using their unique talents to make a difference in the world. First, we hear from Kao Kalia Yang, a Hmong American author whose debut middle-grade novel, "The Diamond Explorer," takes readers on a journey of self-discovery and cultural identity.

Kalia shares the powerful story of her family's harrowing escape from Laos during the Vietnam War, and how her father's resilience and love of storytelling inspired her own writing. She delves into the themes of her book, which follows a young Hmong boy named Malcolm as he navigates the complexities of class, race, and finding his place in the world. Kalia's words are both heartbreaking and hopeful, as she highlights the importance of representation and the transformative power of literature for young readers.

Next, we meet Naomi Schaefer, the former "boss clown" of the nonprofit organization Clowns Without Borders. Naomi explains how this incredible group of performers brings laughter and joy to children in refugee camps, conflict zones, and areas of natural disaster. She shares the inspiring origins of Clowns Without Borders, which started with a simple request from children in a Croatian refugee camp for more laughter in their lives.

Naomi eloquently describes how laughter and play can be powerful tools for healing trauma and cultivating resilience, especially for vulnerable young people. She also shares a heartwarming story about bonding with her stepdaughter over the children's book "Baby Clown," underscoring the importance of representation and shared experiences in literature.

This episode is a powerful exploration of the ways in which storytelling, in all its forms, can uplift, inspire, and transform lives. Whether through the written word or the art of clowning, these guests are using their talents to make the world a little bit brighter.

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From Tiny Flies to Mighty Dinosaurs: Exploring the Magic of Kids' Books Jul 21, 2024

Show notes

In this episode of Reading with Your Kids, host Jed Doherty had delightful conversations with two talented kid's book authors and illustrators - Kim Hillyard and Alycia Pace. The discussions covered a wide range of topics, from the power of picture books to inspire emotional intelligence and mental well-being, to the importance of kindness and community in children's stories.

Kim Hillyard shared the exciting journey of creating her debut picture book, "Mabel and the Mountain," which follows a tiny fly's determination to climb a huge mountain. Kim spoke about the confidence she gained in simplifying her illustrations, and how the book's themes of resilience and self-belief can help young readers. Jed and Kim also explored the emotional impact of picture books, and how sharing vulnerable moments with children can be a powerful bonding experience.

Alycia Pace then joined the conversation to discuss her new board book, "How to Put a Dinosaur to Bed." Alycia explained how the book aims to help children empathize with their parents' bedtime struggles, using a playful, role-reversal approach. The two also delved into Alycia's creative process, from her vibrant color palette to the inspiration she draws from her travels and experiences.

Throughout the episode, Jed and the guests offered valuable insights for parents and grandparents supporting young artists. They emphasized the importance of focusing on storytelling and emotional expression, rather than technical perfection, and shared tips for encouraging originality and heart in children's artwork. Overall, this episode of Reading with Your Kids is a must-listen for anyone interested in the world of children's literature and the power of books to connect families and foster creativity.

Click here to visit our website - www.ReadingWithYourKids.com

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Mischievous Crows, Adventurous Pudge, and Hip Hop Dreams: A Diverse Lineup of Children's Book Creators Jul 19, 2024

Show notes

In this episode of Reading with Your Kids, host Jed Doherty had the pleasure of speaking with several talented kid's book authors and illustrators. First up were sisters Janet Lord and Julie Paschkiss, who collaborated on the picture book "Crick Crack Crow." Janet wrote the story, while Julie brought the mischievous crow to life through her vibrant illustrations. The siblings discussed their creative process and the special connection they share as co-creators.

Next, Jed welcomed John Krause, author of the Pudge Amazon middle-grade book series. Krause shared how his childhood nickname "Pudge" inspired the main character, a resourceful and adventurous young boy. The Pudge Amazon books explore themes of friendship, self-identity, and problem-solving, with Krause drawing from his own experiences as an introverted kid.

Finally, Jed spoke with Paula Banks, author of the "Dream Big, Peyton's Hip Hop Adventure" picture book series. Banks created the confident and creative character of Peyton as a way to live out her own childhood dreams and overcome the self-esteem issues she faced growing up. The books celebrate self-expression, representation, and the power of following your passions.

Throughout the episode, the guests discussed the importance of building children's confidence, addressing mental health topics like anxiety, and using storytelling to inspire the next generation.

Click here to visit our website - www.readingwithyourkids.com

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The Power of Storytelling: How Kid's Books Can Bring Families Together Jul 18, 2024

Show notes

In this episode of Reading with Your Kids, we had the pleasure of speaking with two talented kids' book authors and illustrators - Carter Higgins and Ryeigh A Starr. Carter Higgins joined us to celebrate her delightful picture book "Round and Round the Year We Go," which celebrates the changing seasons and the joy of reading with kids. Carter shared how her experience as a school librarian influenced her approach to creating books that feel like a cozy story time experience.

We also had the chance to chat with Ryleigh A Starr, the author behind the Australian Animals Children's Book Series. Ryleigh's series features unique Aussie creatures like koalas, kangaroos, and platypuses, as well as the diverse landscapes of Australia. Ryleigh's passion for reading and storytelling shines through, as she's developed an engaging subscription model that delivers 30 new stories each month, complete with read-along videos to help struggling readers.

Both Carter and Ryleigh emphasized the importance of school and public libraries as spaces that foster a love of reading, free from the pressures of tests and reports. They shared heartwarming anecdotes about connecting with students and helping them progress at their own pace, whether through simple, repetitive texts or more challenging novels.

Overall, this episode was a delightful exploration of the creative process behind kids' books, the power of storytelling to bring families together, and the vital role that libraries play in nurturing young readers. Whether you're a parent, educator, or just a lover of great kids' books, you're sure to find inspiration and insights in this conversation.

Click here to visit our website - www.readingwithyourkids.com

@ReadingWithYourKids on Instagram

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