In this episode, Jennifer chats with Kate Messner to discuss her love for middle grade novels, her writing process, and her latest projects. Discover the inspiration behind Kate's popular series, "The Kids in Mrs. Z's Class," and her journey in writing her first verse novel, "The Trouble with Heroes." Show notes, episode transcripts and other goodies can be found here.  Chapters Introduction and Welcome Kate's Reading Preferences The Joy of Paper Books A Writer's Journey The Kids in Mrs. Z's Class Series Crafting Multimodal Texts The Trouble With Heroes The Role of Humor and Grief Upcoming Projects Conclusion and Farewell

In this episode, Jennifer chats with Rex Ogle to talk about his journey from working behind the scenes in publishing to becoming one of the most beloved authors writing for young readers. Their conversation explores the importance of normalizing discussions around mental health, and why it's crucial to have more books that help boys navigate what it truly means to “be a man” in a world that too often rewards toxic masculinity. Show notes, episode transcripts and other goodies can be found here.  Chapters Introduction and Friendship Goals Reading Preferences and Habits Writing Process and Organization Community and Support in Kidlit Exploring Difficult Topics in Writing Understanding Complexity in Human Behavior Lessons from Family and Personal Growth The Journey of Writing and Rejection Connecting with Readers and Their Experiences The Impact of Sharing Personal Stories Navigating Mental Health and Personal Healing The Importance of Representation in Literature Creating Stories for Boys and Challenging Norms

In this episode, Jennifer LaGarde and Natalie Lloyd explore their shared love for literature, the impact of childhood reading experiences, the importance of authentic representation in books and, of course, Dolly Parton. They discuss the joys of audiobooks, the challenges of writing about disability, and the significance of creating relatable characters. Natalie shares insights into her writing process and upcoming projects, emphasizing the power of storytelling to connect with young readers. Show notes, including episode transcripts and information about connecting with this episode's guest, can be found here.  Chapters: Friendship and Literary Connections Reading Preferences and Habits The Joy of Audiobooks The Reader's Heart: Personal Stories The Impact of Childhood Reading Creating Authentic Characters Exploring Disability in Literature The Importance of Representation Upcoming Works and New Formats

In this episode, Jennifer chats with two-time Newbery Medalist Erin Entrada Kelly. Their conversation delves into themes of anxiety, character development, and the importance of positive adult figures in children's literature. Erin reflects on her journey as a writer, her influences, and her background in journalism, which has shaped her writing style. The conversation concludes with a glimpse into her upcoming projects, showcasing her continued dedication to creating meaningful literature for young audiences. Show notes, including episode transcripts and information about connecting with this episode's guest, can be found here.  Chapters Celebrating Newbery Success  The First State of Being: A Book Overview Anxiety and Relatability in Literature Character Development: Mr. Mosley The Role of Adults in Children's Literature Exploring Moral Ambiguity The Reader's Heart: Erin's Journey Meeting Literary Heroes The Impact of Journalism on Writing Upcoming Projects and Future Works

In this episode, Jennifer chats with Allie Millington about the profound impact of literature, particularly middle grade books, on identity and connection. They discuss the themes of loneliness and bravery in Millington's book Olivetti,'and the importance of fostering authentic connections in a hyper-connected world. Millington shares her experiences with young readers during school visits, the significance of endorsements from figures like Tom Hanks, and her upcoming projects, including a new middle grade novel and a picture book. Show notes, including episode transcripts and information about connecting with this episode's guest, can be found here.  Chapters Books became an escape and a safe place for me. I want to write books that touch young people's lives. Middle schoolers are my favorite age group. The antidote to loneliness is connection. Olivetti is a story about bravery. Middle grade is not just for 9 to 12 year olds. Empathy and acceptance are important in storytelling. I want to encourage conversations about loneliness. Tom Hanks' endorsement changed everything for me. Typewriters connect different generations.

In this engaging conversation, Padma Venkatraman chats with Jennifer about her new novel in verse, Safe Harbor, exploring themes of belonging, empowerment, and mental health representation. They delve into Padma's personal reading journey, her experiences as a writer, and the significance of music and nature in her storytelling. The discussion also touches on Padma's future projects and the importance of diverse representation in children's literature. Show notes, including episode transcripts and information about connecting with this episode's guest, can be found here.  Chapters 00:00 Getting to Know Padma 05:07 Exploring Safe Harbor 11:48 Themes of Belonging and Empowerment 18:01 Mental Health Representation 23:58 The Role of Music and Nature 33:08 Looking Ahead: Future Projects

Summary: New York Times best selling author, Dashka Slater, joins Jennifer LaGarde to explore the profound impact of literature on young readers, the journey of becoming a writer, and the intersection of journalism and storytelling. Dashka shares her early reading experiences, her path to writing for young people, and the challenges of addressing complex social issues through her work. The discussion highlights the importance of empathy, understanding, and the role of educators and parents in guiding young readers in today's digital landscape. Show notes, including episode transcripts and information about connecting with this episode's guest, can be found here.  Chapters:  00:00 Introduction to Reader's Heart 06:55 The Reader's Journey: Dashka's Early Reading Life 10:59 The Path to Writing for Young People 14:46 The Intersection of Journalism and Young Adult Nonfiction 23:02 Exploring Humanity in Complex Stories 30:38 Engaging Educators and Parents in Conversations 36:08 Looking Ahead: New Projects and Lighter Themes

In this episode, Federico Erebia joins Jennifer for an engaging conversation in which they explore the profound impact of literature on personal identity and the importance of representation in children’s books.

Summary In this conversation, Jennifer and chat's with Paula Yoo about her love for writing narrative non-fiction and how her background in journalism influences her work. They also explore the power of literature for young people in shaping their hearts and understanding the world. Paula shares her experience as a reader, starting with her childhood love for Charlotte's Web and how it influenced her writing style. They discuss the importance of tackling tough topics in books for young people and the need for nuance and context in storytelling. Paula also talks about her latest book, Rising from the Ashes, which explores the 1992 LA uprising, and the importance of amplifying lesser-known stories and challenging stereotypes in media coverage. Show notes, including a discount code for purchasing Paula's books from Bookelicious, can be found here.  Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Paula's Writing Journey 04:42 Charlotte's Web and the Influence of Setting 08:19 Tackling Tough Topics in Books for Young People 15:02 The Importance of Nuance and Context in Storytelling 26:34 Protesting Unfair Media Coverage 28:52 The Power of Collective Action 33:01 Exploring 'Han' 36:32 Emotional Journeys: Han, Hwa, and Jung 45:18 Future Projects

In this conversation, Jeff Zentner chats with Jennifer  about his reader's heart and his writing process. They discuss the power of literature written for young people to shape hearts and help readers navigate the world. They also explore the themes of found family and redefining masculinity in Zentner's books. They delve into Jennifer favorite Jeff Zentner book: Rayne and Delilah's Midnight Matinee, and the importance of depicting relationships with mental illness in young adult literature. They also discuss Zentner's new book, Sunrise Nights,'a verse novel co-authored with Brittany Cavallaro, and Zentner's upcoming adult novel set in a puppet studio in 1970s New York City. Show notes, including a chance to win 2 signed copies of Jeff's books mentioned in this episode from Bookelicious, can be found here.  Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Personal Connection 03:02 The Power of Literature for Young People 08:26 Exploring Found Family and Redefining Masculinity 11:26 Depicting Relationships with Mental Illness in Young Adult Literature 40:46 Upcoming Adult Novel: A Journey into a Puppet Studio

In this episode Debbi Michiko Florence chats with Jennifer about her love for children's literature and the power of books to shape our hearts. She shares her own experiences as a reader, from her childhood memories of her parents reading to her and weekly trips to the library, to her rediscovery of reading for pleasure after college. Debbi emphasizes the importance of authentic representation in children's literature and the impact her books have on young readers, particularly those who see themselves reflected in her characters. She also discusses her upcoming middle grade series, Last Chance Academy, and the joy of writing sweet romances for tween and early teen readers. Show notes, including a discount code for purchasing the books mentioned in this episode from Bookelicious, can be found here.  Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Fan Appreciation 01:08 Debbi's Reader's Heart  07:06 Common themes in The Reader's Heart 10:01 Books as safe spaces 12:21 Creating authentic characters 16:31 Debbi's journey as a writer 20:15 The powerful first crush 22: 12 Aliza Werner shout out 28:35 Introducing Last Chance Academy  34:14 Importance of stories that explore layered identities 36:01 Wrap up and conclusions

In this conversation, Jennifer LaGarde and Katherine Marsh discuss the power of children's literature and the influence it has on shaping readers' hearts. They explore Katherine's own reader's heart and how it informs her writing. They also delve into the themes and characters of Katherine's book, Medusa, and the importance of representation and empathy in literature. They discuss the challenges of getting kids to read and the need for books that cater to different reading levels and interests. Finally, they touch on Katherine's upcoming projects and the role of books in mother-daughter relationships. Show notes, including a discount code for purchasing the books mentioned in this episode from Bookelicious, can be found here.  Chapters: 00:00 Introduction and Background   01:12 Katherine's Reader's Heart   05:02 The Importance of Middle Grade Literature   06:25 Representation and Empathy in Books   09:10 Book Talk: Medusa   16:10 The Characters of Medusa   21:32 Ava's Character Development   23:51 Mother-Daughter Relationships in Medusa   24:12 Medusa as a Read-Aloud   28:26 Writing for Different Reading Levels   29:22 Motivating Kids to Read   33:01 Upcoming Projects   36:06 Conclusion  

In this conversation, Jennifer chats with Elly Swartz discuss the power of children's literature to shape hearts and minds. They explore the importance of books in helping readers navigate life's emotions and connect with themselves and others. They also discuss the influence of social media on storytelling and the inclusion of themes like forgiveness in Swartz's books. Swartz shares her love for writing middle-grade books and the joy of connecting with young readers. They also touch on Swartz's upcoming book, Same Page, which tackles the themes of book banning, friendship, and finding common ground. Show notes, including a discount code for purchasing the books mentioned in this episode from Bookelicious, can be found here.  Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Shared Love for Children's Literature09:00 The Influence of Social Media on Storytelling13:13 The Power of Forgiveness in Swartz's Books25:00 Exploring Book Banning and Friendship in 'Same Page'

In this conversation, Jarrett and Jerome Pumphrey chat with Jennifer about story as an engine for empathy and ceativity. They discuss their reader's hearts and how childhood reading experiences shaped their love for storytelling. They also talk about their book, The Last Stand, with Antwan Eady and the process of illustrating it. The conversation concludes with a discussion of their upcoming projects and congratulations on their recent accolades. Show notes, including a discount code for purchasing the books mentioned in this episode from Bookelicious, can be found here.  Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Reader's Heart09:07 Childhood Reading Experiences12:08 The Last Stand and Charlotte's Web26:09 Upcoming Projects29:16 Congratulations and Closing

In this conversation, Jennifer chats with Ann Braden, an author who writes books that empower kids to find their voice and make a difference in the world. Ann shares her journey as a reader and writer, highlighting the books that had a profound impact on her life. She discusses the importance of recognizing our own voice and the power it holds. Ann also explores the themes in her books, such as facing tough topics and finding hope in difficult times. The conversation emphasizes the need for connection and belief in oneself and others. For more information about this episode, including detailed show notes and a discount code from Bookelicious, visit: librarygirl.net  Chapters: 00:00 Introduction 00:54 Anne's Reader's Heart03:07 Discovering a Love for History04:32 Finding the Confidence to Write05:30 Using Voice to Change the World07:19 Writing Books for Kids to Find Their Voice10:26 Facing Bullying and Overcoming Challenges13:06 Book Talk: Opinions and Opossums 14:46 The Impact of Anne's Books on Readers16:47 The Importance of Art in Understanding Our Times19:35 The Need for Connection and Belief25:01 Finding Joy in the Darkness28:28 The Darkness Turned Inside Out29:27 Conclusion and Gratitude

Jennifer chats with author Erin Bow who shares a bit about her journey as a reader and writer, from her childhood love of books to her success as an author. She emphasizes the importance of reading widely and falling in love with reading as a child. Erin also shares her passion for trashy page-turning storytelling and the influence it has on her writing. But most of their conversation focuses on the role of children's literature in helping us to understand and navigate trauma. Erin discusses the inspiration behind Simon Sort of Says and why it was important to her that Simon's story be funny.  Show notes and other information related to this episode (including a discount code from Bookelicious) can be found here. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Reader's Heart 04:21 Childhood Reading and Influences 06:06 Trashy Page-Turning Storytelling 10:05 Expanding Genre and Writing Goals 11:57 Pseudonyms and Success 13:54 The Journey to Success 20:55 The Variety of Erin Bow's Books 26:09 Discussion of Simon Sort of Says 36:00 Upcoming Work and the Importance of Stories

In this episode, Jasmine Warga chats with Jennifer about the power of read alouds, using stories as conversation starters, and the importance of representation in literature. Jasmine shares her personal journey as a reader and writer, and how books helped her feel less alone. They also talk about Jasmine's latest book, A Rover's Story and her upcoming mystery novel set in an art museum: A Strange Thing Happened in Cherry Hall. The conversation highlights the impact of books on readers' hearts and the need for diverse and engaging stories for middle grade readers. Show notes and other information related to this episode (including a discount code from Bookelicious) can be found here. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Reader's Heart 03:30 The Power of Read Alouds 06:36 Books as Conversation Starters 08:30 Using Stories to Bridge Chasms 09:23 Writing for Middle Grade Readers 14:34 Book Talk: Rover, A Rover Story 25:34 Writing Mysteries for Middle Grade Readers 29:51 Upcoming Projects 33:08 Conclusion

In this episode, Torrey Maldonado chats with Jennifer about children's literature, his work and the magic of teaching middle school! They discuss the power of children's literature and how it can shape readers' hearts and help them navigate the world. Torrey shares his own experience as a reader and how he found storytelling through cinema and comics. He also talks about his teaching background and how he writes books for the students he teaches. Torrey's books are known for being short yet rich and robust, challenging the myth that shorter books lack depth. They discuss the impact of Torrey's books on students and how they inspire and engage reluctant readers. The conversation also touches on the importance of representation in books and the need for young readers to see themselves as both characters and creators in the stories they read. In this conversation, Torrey shares the impact his mother had on his love for reading and writing, and how she continues to inspire him. He reflects on his first reading and the emotional moment when his mother realized he was living her dream. Torrey shares his upcoming projects and the themes of his future books. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the power of empathy and the importance of connecting and understanding one another through literature.   Show notes and other information related to this episode (including a discount code from Bookelicious) can be found here. Chapters 00:00 Introduction 01:01 The Power of Children's Literature 07:31 Middle School Students at a Crossroads 09:51 The Impact of Torrey's Books on Students 13:07 The Attainable Richness of Torrey's Books 16:06 Recognition and Validation 21:42 Representation and Seeing Yourself in Books 22:39 Representation in Books 27:29 Torrey's First Reading 30:17 The Legacy of Torrey's Mother 32:53 What's Next for Torrey Maldonado 34:17 Review of 'Relit' 45:00 The Power of Empathy

Mike Curato joins Jennifer to discuss the power of children's literature to shape our hearts and navigate the world with compassion. They explore their own experiences as readers and artists, emphasizing the importance of personal storytelling and self-expression. They also discuss the impact of social media on creativity and self-perception. Mike shares his approach to school visits, focusing on his personal journey and the challenges he faced. Mike discusses his book Flamer'and the importance of creating stories that address issues faced by marginalized communities. He also shares his upcoming projects, including an adult graphic novel and a middle-grade graphic novel. Show notes and other information related to this episode (including a discount code from Bookelicious) can be found here. Chapters 00:00 The Power of Children's Literature10:58 The Impact of Social Media36:57 Upcoming Projects

In this episode, Ami Polonsky joins Jennifer to discuss the power of storytelling and the importance of accessible reading. They explore how being a teacher influences Ami's storytelling and how her books empower young readers to make a difference. They also discuss the relevance of stories like World Made of Glass in today's world and the need for diverse voices in literature. Ami shares her upcoming project, a companion book to World Made of Glass, and reflects on the challenges and importance of writing hopeful stories in difficult times.    Show notes and other information related to this episode (including a discount code from Bookelicious) can be found here.   Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Reader Identity 03:00 The Importance of Accessible Reading 08:00 The Influence of Teaching on Storytelling 13:00 World Made of Glass and the Power of Stories 19:00 Writing for Change and Empowering Kids 25:00 The Need for Stories in Challenging Times 29:00 Upcoming Projects and the Importance of Hope 35:44 The Journey of Writing a Book 36:14 The Power of Books 36:38 Upcoming Book Release 37:05 Enjoyable Conversation