In this episode of The Growing Readers Podcast, host Bianca Schulze welcomes award-winning science author Melissa Stewart to discuss her latest picture book, From BAM to BURP: A Carbon Atom's Never-Ending Journey Through Space and Time and YOU. With over 200 science books for children under her belt, Melissa takes listeners on an extraordinary journey that begins with the Big Bang and ends with a third grader's breakfast burp—all while following a single carbon atom across billions of years.
What started as a curious question from a third grader during a school visit became a cosmic adventure that connects kids to the larger natural processes of our universe. Melissa shares how she uses her background in biology and science journalism to spark wonder and curiosity in young readers, why she believes getting kids invested in nature is more important than ever, and how seeing ourselves as "just a speck in this gigantic universe" can actually inspire humility, gratitude, and environmental responsibility.
Read the transcript on The Children's Book Review (coming soon).
Highlights:
Notable Quotes:"I always say that sort of the mission of my writing is to just make kids curious. And if one of my books can inspire a child to chase after a butterfly, to see where it's going, or look under a rock, then my job is done." —Melissa Stewart
"We are just sort of like a speck in this gigantic universe... the more that they can kind of feel the sense of awe that we even exist. Like it's a coincidence... and to just really be humble and grateful about our existence." —Melissa Stewart
"Carbon is sometimes a little bit maligned because of its role in climate change and global warming, but the carbon cycle is so critical to life on Earth. Life could not exist without it." —Melissa Stewart
Books Mentioned:
About Melissa Stewart:Melissa Stewart is the award-winning author of more than two hundred science books for children. She holds degrees in biology and science journalism. Recent books include Summertime Sleepers: Animals That Estivate, Seashells: More Than a Home, Feathers: Not Just for Flying, and Whale Fall: Exploring an Ocean-Floor Ecosystem.
For more: melissa-stewart.com
Credits:Host: Bianca SchulzeGuest: Melissa StewartProducer: Bianca Schulze
In this episode of The Growing Readers Podcast, host Bianca Schulze welcomes back author-illustrator Nyasha Williams, alongside her co-author Sidney Rose McCall, to discuss their collaborative picture book, Once Upon a Kwanzaa. Though the two have never met in person, they describe themselves as "deeply ancestral soul sisters" who connected through the adult adoption community online. Together, they explore how the seven principles of Kwanzaa—from Umoja (unity) to Imani (faith)—offer a pathway back to communal ways of being that our world desperately needs.
Read the transcript on The Children's Book Review.
Highlights:
Notable Quotes:
"Literature and media has such an immense power in shaping our future, in shaping what can be, in imagining what's even possible." —Nyasha Williams
"Community is not just about finding your safe people, but also finding people who you might not have initially considered your safe people." —Sidney Rose McCall
"Empathy isn't a passive word. It requires active participation. It is a relationship that you are building." —Sidney Rose McCall
Books Mentioned:
Once Upon a Kwanzaa by Nyasha Williams and Sidney Rose McCall, illustrated by Sawyer Cloud: Amazon or Bookshop.org
About Nyasha Williams:
Nyasha Williams grew up living between the United States and South Africa. As a kindergarten teacher, she was inspired to become an author and activist after a Black student told her mermaids could not be Black. She is the author of four picture books with Running Press Kids, including the bestselling I Affirm Me, and is the author of RP Studio's Black Tarot.
For more: nyashawilliams.online
About Sidney Rose McCall:
Sidney Rose McCall is a historian and community intellectual who combines academic work with activism. She serves on the Academic Committee for the ZORA! Festival of the Arts and Humanities and shares decolonized history lessons through her Patreon platform.
For more: linktr.ee/Rosecolored_Scholar
Credits:
Host: Bianca Schulze
Guests: Nyasha Williams and Sidney Rose McCall
Producer: Bianca Schulze
Episode Sponsor:
Mimi and Ary by Rashad Mirzayev: Amazon or Bookshop.org
In this episode of The Growing Readers Podcast, host Bianca Schulze welcomes award-winning author-illustrator Grace Lin and her childhood friend turned editor, Alvina Ling, VP and Editor-in-Chief at Little, Brown Books for Young Readers. The duo discusses Grace's return to middle grade fiction after nine years with The Gate, The Girl, and The Dragon, a stunning fantasy based on Chinese folklore. They explore the collaborative magic of their decades-long partnership, the balance between artistic vision and commercial publishing, the importance of creating diverse literature, and how patience and trust allow books to become exactly what they're meant to be.
Transcription: You can read the transcription on The Children's Book Review (coming soon)
Highlights:
Notable Quotes:
"I wanted to make books that showed people how human Asians were...that Asians are just as human, just as part of the population as everyone else." —Grace Lin
"I feel like the audience is just excited with whatever you want to do next." —Alvina Ling on Grace's ability to move between genres
Books Mentioned:
About Grace Lin:Grace Lin is the award-winning and bestselling author and illustrator of Chinese Menu, When the Sea Turned to Silver, Starry River of the Sky, Where the Mountain Meets the Moon (a Newbery Honor book), The Year of the Dog, The Year of the Rat, Dumpling Days, and Ling & Ting, as well as picture books such as The Ugly Vegetables, A Big Bed for Little Snow, and A Big Mooncake for Little Star. Grace is a graduate of the Rhode Island School of Design and lives in Massachusetts.
About Alvina Ling:Alvina Ling is VP and Editor-in-Chief at Little, Brown Books for Young Readers (a division of Hachette Book Group) where she has worked since 1999. She edits children's books for all ages, from picture books to young adult. She has edited such books as A Big Mooncake For Little Star by Grace Lin; Mr. Tiger Goes Wild by Peter Brown; Dave the Potter by Laban Carrick Hill, illustrated by Bryan Collier; Where the Mountain Meets the Moon by Grace Lin; The Land of Stories series by Chris Colfer; The Candymakers by Wendy Mass; Daughter of Smoke and Bone by Laini Taylor; and The Cruel Prince by Holly Black.
Connect and Follow:Learn more about Grace Lin: https://www.gracelin.comFollow Alvina Ling on Twitter: @planetalvinaFollow Alvina Ling on Instagram: @alvinalingListen to Grace and Alvina's podcast: Book Friends Forever
Credits:
Host: Bianca Schulze
Guests: Grace Lin and Alvina Ling
Producer: Bianca Schulze
Episode Sponsor: https://www.claudiamillsauthor.com/books/66
In this episode of The Growing Readers Podcast, host Bianca Schulze brings together two luminaries of children's literature: Kate DiCamillo and Sophie Blackall. The duo discusses their collaboration on Lost Evangeline, the third tale set in the magical world of Norendy. They explore the 15-year journey of bringing Evangeline's story to life, the intimate connection between words and illustrations, the therapeutic power of storytelling, and how creating children's books allows them to access their best selves while healing complicated relationships with their own parents.
Transcription: You can read the transcription on The Children's Book Review (coming soon)
Highlights:
Notable Quotes:
"Don't ever let somebody tell you who you are and what you can do and who you can become in this world." —Kate DiCamillo on Evangeline's refusal to accept fate
"With each story, I make myself more complete to the point where I can put a healthy father-daughter relationship in there that satisfies me." —Kate DiCamillo
"It really feels like I'm living in the story when I'm spending time...and I do go into a little bit of a dreamy trance and then I look up several hours later and there's Evangeline on the page." —Sophie Blackall
Books Mentioned:
About Kate DiCamillo:Kate DiCamillo is one of America's most beloved storytellers. She is a former National Ambassador for Young People's Literature and a two-time Newbery Medalist. Born in Philadelphia, she grew up in Florida and now lives in Minneapolis.
About Sophie Blackall: Sophie Blackall is the acclaimed illustrator of more than forty-five books for young readers and a two-time Caldecott Medalist. Born and raised in Australia, she now lives in Brooklyn.
Connect and Follow: Learn more about Kate DiCamillo: https://www.katedicamillo.comLearn more about Sophie Blackall: https://www.sophieblackall.com
Credits:
Host: Bianca Schulze
Guests: Kate DiCamillo and Sophie Blackall
Producer: Bianca Schulze
In this episode of The Growing Readers Podcast, host Bianca Schulze interviews Peter Brown about his latest picture book adaptation, The Wild Robot on the Island. They explore his journey adapting the bestselling novel into a visual format for younger readers, his approach to creating meaningful stories without being "on the nose," and how becoming a new father has influenced his perspective on storytelling and character relationships.
Transcription: You can read the transcription on The Children's Book Review
Highlights:
Notable Quotes:"I think you're more likely to express a message, a meaningful message to readers, if you focus on what the story needs to work, kind of the craft of writing first and foremost." —Peter Brown
"I wonder if he ever thinks about me. I don't know what it is, but to me that is so human and so sweet and emotional. I get choked up just thinking about it." —Peter Brown on Roz's winter thoughts about Brightbill
Books Mentioned:
About Peter Brown: Peter has always loved telling stories. Growing up in New Jersey, he told stories by drawing whimsical characters and scenes from his imagination. While studying illustration at Art Center College of Design, Peter's love of both words and pictures led him to children's books. Since then he has written and illustrated many books for children and earned numerous honors, including a Caldecott Honor, a Horn Book Award, two E.B. White Awards, and multiple New York Times bestsellers. Peter lives in Maine with his wife, Susan, and their dog, Pam.
Connect and Follow: Learn more about Peter Brown: https://www.peterbrownstudio.com
Credits:
Host: Bianca Schulze
Guest: Peter Brown
Producer: Kelly Rink and Bianca Schulze
In this episode of The Growing Readers Podcast, host Bianca Schulze interviews Stan Yan about his debut middle-grade graphic novel, The Many Misfortunes of Eugenia Wang. They discuss his journey from stockbroker to children's book creator, the six major rewrites that shaped his story, the significance of Chinese superstitions in his work, and his powerful realization about representation in children's literature when he discovered he had never drawn characters that looked like himself.
Transcription: You can read the transcription on The Children's Book Review
Highlights:
Notable Quotes:
"I don't want you to grow up thinking that you can't draw a main character that looks like yourself, like me." —Stan Yan
"Your job is to torture your protagonist and what better time of your life to torture your protagonist than when they're probably at their most vulnerable." —Stan Yan on writing for 13-year-olds
Books Mentioned:
About Stan Yan: Stan Yan is an award-winning, first-generation American-born Chinese writer, illustrator, and educator based in Denver. He co-founded the Squid Works comic creator cooperative, serves as co-Regional Advisor for the Rocky Mountain Chapter of SCBWI, and teaches illustration at Rocky Mountain College of Art & Design. His work spans comics, children's books, and educational materials, with his graphic novel debut earning Junior Library Guild Gold Standard recognition.
Connect and Follow:Learn more about Stan Yan: https://www.stanyan.me/
Credits:Host: Bianca SchulzeGuest: Stan YanProducer: Bianca Schulze
In this episode of The Growing Readers Podcast, publicist Mel Schuit takes over hosting duties to interview Bianca Schulze about her revised edition of 101 Books to Read Before You Grow Up. They discuss the evolution of children's literature over the past nine years, why Bianca switched out 30% of the original titles, her journey from non-reader to reading advocate, and how she curates books that prioritize joy and representation for young readers.
Transcription: You can read the transcription on The Children's Book Review (coming soon)
Highlights:
Notable Quotes:
"Reading for joy and reading for pleasure—when you do that, you become a wiser person. You are more empathetic." —Bianca Schulze
"We can't ever change what's happened to us. We can't alter the past or control what's coming around the next corner, but we can choose how we live now." —Dr. Edith Eva Eger, from The Ballerina of Auschwitz
"Be kind, be brave, and make good choices. Remember the struggles of those who came before you. Always dream of the fantastical future ahead of you... Live your life like an epic adventure." —From Bianca's author's note
Books Mentioned:
About Bianca Schulze: Bianca Schulze is the founder of The Children's Book Review and host of The Growing Readers Podcast. A former bookseller turned author, she has published eight books and has been championing children's literature for over 16 years. As a mother of three and passionate literacy advocate, she believes in the transformative power of reading for joy.
Connect and Follow: Learn more about Bianca Schulze: https://www.thechildrensbookreview.com/Follow on Instagram: @thechildrensbookreview
Credits: Guest Host: Mel SchuitGuest: Bianca SchulzeProducer: Bianca Schulze
Episode Sponsor: Cody's Whisper by Mailia Grace. For more information, visit https://www.the-whisper-way.com/
In this episode of The Growing Readers Podcast, host Bianca Schulze interviews award-winning author Meg Medina about her latest fantasy novel, Graciela in the Abyss. They discuss Medina's fifteen-year journey developing this underwater adventure, her transition from contemporary fiction to fantasy, her experience as the eighth National Ambassador for Young People's Literature, and how she transformed personal grief and world events into a story about friendship, bioluminescence, and making your own light in the darkest places.
Transcription: You can read the transcription on The Children's Book Review (coming soon)
Highlights:
Notable Quotes:
"It was a surprise to me... I didn't have to be some sort of super exceptional person leading this incredible life to have something to say." —Meg Medina on finding her voice as a writer
"Suffering was strange that way. It didn't have to be your own for it to hurt." —Quote from Graciela in the Abyss
"Sometimes you can't finish it. You don't have what you need yet. Sometimes that's maturity. Sometimes it's world events." —Meg Medina on the writing process
Books Mentioned:
About Meg Medina: Meg Medina is the 2024 Newbery Medal winner for Merci Suárez Changes Gears and author of many acclaimed novels and picture books, including Burn Baby Burn, Yaqui Delgado Wants to Kick Your Ass, and the Merci Suárez series. She served as the eighth National Ambassador for Young People's Literature (2022-2024) with the platform "CuÉntame: Let's Talk Books." As a first-generation Cuban American, she draws on her heritage and experiences to create authentic stories that celebrate the strength and resilience of Latino families and communities.
Connect and Follow: Learn more about Meg Medina: https://www.megmedina.com/Meg Medina's Bookshop shelf with books she book talks and kids recommended: https://bookshop.org/shop/MegMedinaVisit The Children's Book Review at https://www.thechildrensbookreview.com/
Credits: Host: Bianca SchulzeGuest: Meg MedinaProducer: Bianca Schulze
Sponsor: Bajette's Balloon: The Magic of Smiles™: https://www.bajette.com/
In this episode of The Growing Readers Podcast, host Bianca Schulze interviews award-winning author-illustrator Corinna Luyken about her latest picture book, The Arguers. They discuss Luyken's decade-long journey developing this story about a royal kingdom where everyone argues, her evolution from a dark cautionary tale to finding hope through humor, and how she captures universal human nature through whimsical observations about the silly things we fight over and the deeper issues beneath them.
Transcription: You can read the transcription on The Children's Book Review (coming soon)
Highlights:
Notable Quotes:
Books Mentioned:
About Corinna Luyken: Corinna Luyken is the author-illustrator of The Book of Mistakes (which The Wall Street Journal called "sublime"), My Heart (A New York Times Best Seller), and The Tree in Me (an NCTE Notable Poetry Book). She's also the illustrator of Patchwork (A New York Times Best Picture Book of 2022) by Matt de la Peña and several other acclaimed picture books. She studied dance improvisation, poetry, and printmaking at Middlebury College and now lives in Western Washington, near the Salish Sea, where she enjoys surfing, gardening, and reading with a cat (or two) on her lap.
Connect and Follow:
Credits:
Sponsor:
The Best Bunny: The Adventures of Lil Shen: https://www.chefaloconsulting.com/best-bunny
In this episode of The Growing Readers Podcast, host Bianca Schulze interviews award-winning author-illustrator Jon Agee about his latest picture book George and Lenny Are Always Together. They discuss Agee's creative process, his evolution from writing about middle-aged protagonists to child characters, and how he infuses gentle humor and nuanced storytelling into his work about friendship, independence, and the delicate balance between togetherness and solitude.
Transcription: You can read the transcription on The Children's Book Review (coming soon)
Highlights:
Notable Quotes:
Books Mentioned:
About Jon Agee: Jon Agee is an award-winning author and illustrator with over 40 years in children's publishing. Known for his distinctive humor and storytelling style, Agee has created numerous beloved picture books. His career evolved from writing about adult protagonists in the 1990s to focusing on child characters, adapting to industry changes while maintaining his signature blend of gentle humor and meaningful themes. He has also written lyrics and stories for children's musicals.
Connect and Follow:
Credits:
The Growing Readers Podcast celebrates children's literature and its power to inspire a lifelong love of reading.
Keywords: Jon Agee, Growing Readers podcast, George and Lenny Are Always Together, picture book, children's literature, friendship, independence, bear and rabbit, humor, illustration, creative process, traditional art, character development, publishing industry, Harry Potter impact, Edward Lear, Margaret Wise Brown, Beatrice Alemangna, storytelling, emotional connection
In this episode of The Growing Readers Podcast, host Bianca Schulze interviews author Allie Millington about her picture book When You Find a Hope. They discuss Millington's unique brain drain morning practice, her long journey to publication, and how her own experiences with rejection and perseverance directly inspired this heartfelt story about hope.
Transcription: You can read the transcription on The Children's Book Review (coming soon)
Highlights:
Notable Quotes:
Books Mentioned:
About Allie Millington: Allie Millington is the bestselling author of Olivetti and now When You Find a Hope. Her writing journey included years of rejection before achieving success, with her debut novel receiving acclaim including a review from Tom Hanks in the New York Times. Allie's personal experience with perseverance directly inspired her picture book about hope.
Connect and Follow:
Credits:
The Growing Readers Podcast celebrates children's literature and its power to inspire a lifelong love of reading.
Keywords: Allie Millington, Growing Readers podcast, When You Find a Hope, picture book, children's literature, hope, perseverance, rejection, writing process, brain drain, morning pages, Olivetti, Once For Yes, Anne Lambellet, illustration, creative process, publication journey, The Artist's Way, children's books, creativity, storytelling, illustrations, emotional connection, parenting, mental health
In this episode of The Growing Readers Podcast, host Bianca Schulze interviews author Lisa Tolin about her picture book biography Can You Imagine?: The Art and Life of Yoko Ono. They discuss Tolin's creative process, her admiration for Yoko Ono's resilience and artistry, and how she approached introducing conceptual art to young readers.
Transcription: You can read the transcription on The Children's Book Review (coming soon)
Highlights:
Notable Quotes:
Books Mentioned:
About Lisa Tolin: Lisa Tolin is a journalist and editor who has covered arts and entertainment, lifestyle, health, and breaking news for major news organizations. Her years as a journalist gave her the opportunity to interview Yoko Ono in her home. Lisa lives in Brooklyn, New York, with her husband and two sons.
Connect and Follow:
Credits:
The Growing Readers Podcast celebrates children's literature and its power to inspire a lifelong love of reading.
Keywords: Lisa Tolin, Growing Readers podcast, Yoko Ono, picture book biography, children's literature, conceptual art, imagination, peace activism, Yas Imamura, illustration, creative process, motherhood, writing life, Beatles, John Lennon, children's books, artist biography
In this episode of The Growing Readers Podcast, host Bianca Schulze interviews acclaimed author Laurie Halse Anderson about her writing process, experiences with young readers, and her latest book, Rebellion 1776. They discuss the importance of historical fiction in helping readers understand contemporary issues, and how Anderson crafts engaging stories that make history accessible to young readers.
Transcription: You can read the transcription on The Children's Book Review (coming soon)
Highlights:
Notable Quotes:
Books Mentioned:
About Laurie Halse Anderson
Laurie Halse Anderson is a New York Times bestselling author known for tackling difficult subjects with honesty and sensitivity. Her work has earned numerous awards and has been translated into many languages. Her historical fiction brings America's past to life while addressing themes relevant to today's young readers.
Connect and Follow:
Credits:
The Growing Readers Podcast celebrates children's literature and its power to inspire a lifelong love of reading.
Keywords: Laurie Halse Anderson, Growing Readers podcast, historical fiction, writing process, children's literature, young readers, Rebellion, smallpox epidemic, Siege of Boston, character development, historical fiction, human nature, storytelling, adventure, research, young readers, American Revolution, writing process, literary themes
In this engaging episode of The Growing Readers Podcast, award-winning author Dusti Bowling shares her journey from a struggling reader to acclaimed writer, revealing how these experiences shape her characters. She discusses her latest novel, The Beat I Drum, which follows Connor Bradley—a teen with Tourette syndrome—drawing on her family's personal experiences to create an authentic portrayal that challenges stereotypes.
Bowling explores the therapeutic role of music in the story while balancing serious themes with humor and heart. She explains her approach to writing characters with disabilities as fully realized individuals whose differences are just one aspect of their identity. The conversation highlights her passion for creating engaging books for underserved middle school readers and her plans to develop young adult fiction that bridges crucial gaps in children's literature, making this a valuable listen for anyone interested in authentic, inclusive storytelling.
Discussion Topics:
Transcription: You can read the transcription on The Children's Book Review (coming soon)
Order Copies of The Beat I Drum on Amazon or Bookshop.org
For more information about Dusti Bowling, visit https://www.dustibowling.com/
Sign Up for The Children's Book Review e-Newsletter
Keywords: Dusti Bowling, writing process, Tourette syndrome, children's literature, self-expression, family dynamics, isolation, reading journey, childhood friendship, emotional challenges, humor in storytelling, disability representation, research in writing, middle school literature, young adult books, reader engagement
Join us for a delightful conversation with author and music teacher Janna Matthies as she shares the inspiration behind her new picture book, Over in the Garden.
Discover how Janna's musical background, love of nature, and teaching experience beautifully converge in this counting book that celebrates community gardening. From adapting the folk song "Over in the Meadow" to creating rhythmic, engaging text for young readers, Janna reveals her creative process and even treats us to a musical performance! Learn about her journey as an author, her passion for finding beauty in the world, and how she hopes her books will inspire children to explore the outdoors. This episode is perfect for parents, educators, and anyone who appreciates the magic that happens when music, literature, and nature come together.
Discussion Topics:
Transcription: You can read the transcription on The Children's Book Review (coming soon)
Order Copies of Over in the Garden on Amazon or Bookshop.org
For more information about Janna Matthies, visit https://www.jannamatthies.com/
Keywords: gardening, children's books, writing, nature, rhyming books, community, creativity
In this heartwarming episode of The Growing Readers Podcast, Bianca Schulze welcomes Newbery Medal-winning author Matt de la Peña and bestselling illustrator Loren Long to discuss their new collaboration, Home.
Building on the success of their #1 New York Times bestseller Love, the creators share intimate memories of their own childhoods and explore what home truly means beyond physical structures. Through thoughtful conversation, they reveal the creative process behind their lyrical text and evocative illustrations that celebrate the many forms of home—from family relationships to the natural world. The discussion highlights their commitment to inclusivity in storytelling, the emotional power of illustration, and how reading together creates its own sense of home and security for children. Perfect for parents, educators, and anyone interested in how picture books can help children process their place in our changing world.
Discussion Topics:
Transcription: You can read the transcription on The Children's Book Review (coming soon)
Order Copies of Home on Amazon or Bookshop.org
For more information about Matt de la Peña, visit https://mattdelapena.com/
For more information about Loren Long, visit https://lorenlong.com/
Keywords: home, children's books, Matt De La Peña, Loren Long, memories, emotional connections, illustrations, storytelling, family, illustration, empathy, children's literature, collaboration, emotional connection, nature, security
In this engaging conversation, Bianca Schulze interviews Candace Fleming about her journey as a nonfiction writer, the allure of nonfiction for young readers, and her latest book on the Loch Ness Monster, Is It Real? The Loch Ness Monster.
They discuss the importance of curiosity, critical thinking, and the balance between entertainment and education in writing for children. Fleming shares her unique research process, writing methods, and the motivation behind her work, emphasizing the significance of true stories and the joy of discovery in nonfiction literature.
Discussion Topics:
Transcription: You can read the transcription on The Children's Book Review (coming soon)
Order Copies of Is It Real? The Loch Ness Monster on Amazon or Bookshop.org
For more information about Candace Fleming, visit https://candacefleming.com/
Keywords: nonfiction, children's books, critical thinking, Loch Ness Monster, Candace Fleming, reading, writing, curiosity, education, storytelling
In this episode of The Growing Readers Podcast, Megan E. Freeman takes us on a journey through her creative process and the powerful stories behind her novels ALONE and AWAY.
From discovering swimming as an unexpected source of inspiration to transforming ALONE from prose to verse, Megan shares the evolution of her craft and her deep connection to young readers. She reveals how student feedback shaped AWAY's multiple narrative styles and discusses her meticulous research process, from calving on ranches to studying emergency management protocols.
At the heart of our conversation is her passionate mission: empowering young readers and helping them fall in love with reading, one story at a time.
Discussion Topics:
Transcription: You can read the transcription on The Children's Book Review (coming soon)
Order Copies of Alone on Amazon or Bookshop.org
Order Copies of Away on Amazon or Bookshop.org
For more information about Megan E. Freeman, visit https://www.meganefreeman.com/
Keywords: creativity, writing, children's literature, reading journey, novels in verse, hybrid storytelling, Megan E. Freeman, Growing Readers podcast, storytelling, character development, young readers, hope, authenticity, audiobooks, rural experiences, writing process, empowerment, literature
In this episode of the Growing Readers podcast, John Patrick Green shares insights into his creative process, journey from artist to bestselling graphic novelist, and the collaborative nature of graphic novel creation. He discusses how his love for storytelling and humor drives his work, aiming to make kids laugh while also engaging adult readers with clever references.
John reflects on his inspirations, including his childhood experiences and the influence of shows like Star Trek, and how these elements shape his storytelling approach. In this engaging conversation, John Patrick Green discusses his passion for creating graphic novels that make children laugh and foster a love for reading. He emphasizes the importance of all forms of reading, including graphic novels, and how they can engage different parts of the brain.
John shares insights about his latest book, 'Agents of Suit: Wild Ghost Chase,' and the creative process behind it. He also compares his two series, 'Investigators' and 'Agents of Suit,' and offers valuable advice for young creators about finishing their projects and staying motivated.
Discussion Topics:
Transcription: You can read the transcription on The Children's Book Review (coming soon)
Order Copies of The Agents of S.U.I.T.: Wild Ghost Chase on Amazon or Bookshop.org
For more information about John Patrick Green, visit http://www.johngreenart.com/
Keywords: John Patrick Green, graphic novels, creative process, storytelling, humor, children's literature, collaboration, writing journey, making kids laugh, artistic inspiration, graphic novels, reading, children's literature, creativity, storytelling, humor, education, John Patrick Green, Agents of Suit, Investigators
Join teacher-librarian and children's book author Jolene Gutiérrez as she discusses collaborating with her son Dakota on their new picture book Mamiachi and Me, a joyful celebration of mariachi music and family tradition.
Learn how a misheard word sparked a story about an all-female mariachi band and a young girl finding the courage to perform. Jolene shares insights from nearly 30 years of connecting young readers with stories, the magic of co-authoring books with both her children during the pandemic, and the importance of creating authentic cultural narratives that feel as natural as the clothes we wear. She opens up about her creative process, the power of persistence in publishing, and how seeing yourself represented in stories can change lives.
You'll discover:
The surprising way "Mamiachi and Me" got its title How Jolene balances writing partnerships with her kids versus solo work The importance of letting cultural elements flow naturally in storytelling Why author visits can be transformative for young students How her work as a teacher librarian influences her writing
Listen in for an inspiring conversation about family, creativity, and the power of sharing our unique voices through children's literature.
Transcription: You can read the transcription on The Children's Book Review
Order Copies: Mamiachi and Me on Amazon or Bookshop.org
For more information, visit https://www.jolenegutierrez.com/
Keywords: children's literature, storytelling, cultural representation, writing process, family, school visits, young readers, author interviews, creativity, inspiration
This episode was sponsored by Jodi Dee, author of Energy Wars: The Awakening. For more information, visit https://jodidee.com/.