In this interview I speak with one of my favorite storytellers, award-winning author Torrey Maldonado! Torrey is a light in the darkness, and in the words of the great Maya Angelou, he's a "rainbow" in the world's cloud, spreading joy and positivity everywhere he goes, including in his books! I'm thrilled to have the opportunity to shine a light on his first picture book JUST RIGHT through this inspirational talk!Born and raised in Brooklyn, Torrey Maldonado is an acclaimed author and educator whose work impacts middle grade, young adult, and elementary school literature. He approaches thirty years teaching in NYC and has been celebrated by two Chancellors as a top culturally responsive educator. Named Best Books of the Year by NPR, The Washington Post, Oprah, and The NY Times, HANDS, WHAT LANE?, TIGHT, and SECRET SATURDAYS are inspired by his and his students’ lives. They're praised for their authenticity about friendship, family, and choices. As someone who reads and loves Torrey Maldonado's books, I invite you to watch my newest interview with Torrey and click play my reviews of Torrey's outstanding books.

My talk with New York Times Bestselling author Lance Rubin was nothing short of legendary! From deep talks about the pros and cons of AI, to a fun look back at his career in theater, to the celebration of his latest stories, this interview had it all!Lance is the author of the “Denton Little’s Death Date” a page turning phenomenal YA series, as well as a brand-new fantastic middle-grade book entitled “Zed Moonstein Makes a Friend,” a uniquely relevant and read worthy story I can’t recommend enough! And coming in early 2026, Lance’s newest YA novel, "16 Forever," which I’m incredibly excited about.I highly recommend checking out all of Lance Rubin's books, you won’t regret it!Be sure to check out my “Zed Moonstein Makes a Friend” book review

WELCOME TO MY HANUKKAH HEROES 2025 AUTHOR PANEL! In this video, I'm speaking with five wonderful Jewish storytellers, authors and illustrators, who've brought some of the sweetest and most meaningful Festival of Lights books to life. Their stories brighten the season for young readers from preschool through middle school. I invite you to join in the Hanukkah reading celebration, as we peek into these five amazing authors creative journeys.Henry Herz: https://www.henryherz.com/Dara Henry: https://www.darahenry.com/Janie Emaus: https://www.janieemaus.com/Dr. Kerry M. Olitzky: https://kerryolitzky.com/homeMartha Simpson: https://www.martha-seif-simpson.com/Now's your chance to click play and spend some time learning, smiling and celebrating Hanukkah! Thanks for tuning into my channel. Please support my literacy journey by liking and subscribing! E Train Talks, Inc.Where Every Child's Journey Begins with a Book. E Train Talks, Inc., is a 501©(3) nonprofit founded and led by Ethan (known as E Train), at 11-years-old. Now, 4 years later, at 15, Ethan is an award-winning literacy advocate, book reviewer, kindness ambassador and Giving Tuesday teen leader. E Train is committed to celebrating early literacy and inspiring a lifelong love of reading in children of all ages. Through engaging interviews with children's authors, book reviews, school visits, and literacy-focused events, E Train sparks curiosity and encourages children to discover the magic of reading. By championing diverse voices and stories, E Train not only supports language development and comprehension skills but also helps children build empathy, confidence, and a strong educational foundation.

Welcome to another exciting episode of E Train Talks, where I sit down with history expert, acclaimed writer, and documentary producer Josh Mensch! Josh is the #1 New York Times bestselling author of gripping historical nonfiction stories uncovering real-life secret plots and assassination attempts throughout American history. Books full of intrigue and history lessons co-authored with NYT Bestselling Author Brad MeltzerWhether you’re a history buff, aspiring writer, or just someone who loves books that read like thrillers, this conversation is full of insight, storytelling, and inspiration.Watch now and discover the secret side of history!Check out Josh Mensch's fascinating books:THE FIRST CONSPIRACY: THE SECRET PLOT TO KILL GEORGE WASHINGTON, NYT BESTSELLER THE LINCOLN CONSPIRACY: THE SECRET PLOT TO KILL AMERICA’S 16TH PRESIDENT—AND WHY IT FAILED, NYT BESTSELLERTHE NAZI CONSPIRACY: THE SECRET PLOT TO KILL ROOSEVELT, STALIN, AND CHURCHILL, NYT BESTSELLER THE JFK CONSPIRACY: THE SECRET PLOT TO KILL KENNEDY: AND WHY IT FAILED, NYT BESTSELLER

This episode is a truly special celebration! I’m honored to sit down virtually with award-winning children's author Kate DiCamillo for an exclusive interview commemorating the 25th anniversary of her beloved debut novel, BECAUSE OF WINN-DIXIE. First published in 2000, this timeless story of friendship, love, and belonging has touched millions of young readers around the world and continues to be a timeless favorite among children’s literature.Kate DiCamillo is a two-time Newbery Medal winner and the author of many beloved children's books, including THE TALE OF DESPEREAUX, FLORA & ULYSSES and the MERCY WATSON series. In this interview, we revisit the magic of BECAUSE OF WINN-DIXIE, explore the inspirations behind many of her heartfelt stories, and talk about Kate's incredible writing journey. Kate DiCamillo is a writing legend; whether you grew up with WINN-DIXIE, connected with DESPEREAUXor, or are discovering Kate’s work for the first time, this 25th anniversary interview is a celebration you won’t want to miss!Thank you for watching my interview with author Kate DiCamillo. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the bell to join us for more inspiring conversations with your favorite authors and creators.

This is my book review of ZED MOONSTEIN MAKES A FRIEND, a captivating coming-of-age middle-grade masterpiece by New York Times Bestselling Author Lance Rubin.ZED MOONSTEIN MAKES A FRIEND is an unforgettable reading journey of self-discovery, a story that explores the ins and outs of true friendship, learning to embrace who you are, and reclaiming authentic connections. With a unique blend of heart, humor, and sharp insight, Rubin's crafted a story that is both futuristic and deeply personal. Watch my book review to find out more!"Acclaimed author Lance Rubin makes his middle grade debut with a hilariously terrifying, terrifyingly hilarious story of a boy who gets more than he bargained for when he creates an A.I. best friend. "I highly recommend ZED MOONSTEIN MAKES A FRIEND to anyone who loves sci-fi, coming-of-age stories, or anyone who has ever felt like an outsider searching for their place in the world. I couldn't put this book down! A 10/10 MUST-READ!

SO OVER SHARING is a relatable and timely middle-grade read (a must read)! With a powerful storyline centering around the mental and emotional harm that can occur behind the scenes of family content creation channels, Weissman crafted a relevant, fast-paced, and highly entertaining read! SO OVER SHARING is book that I know teens, tweens and content creators of all ages will have no trouble diving into! It's a story that teachers are going to have to keep a sign up sheet for, it's that good! Title: SO OVER SHARINGAuthor: Elissa Brent WeissmanPublisher: Dial Books for Young Readers, an imprint of Penguin Random HouseBook Reviewer: Ethan (E Train)

I’m very excited to share my interview with the wonderful author Naomi Milliner. Naomi writes heartwarming, coming-of-age stories that truly touch the soul. I've been following Naomi's writing since my podcast journey began and I'm thrilled to have the opportunity to dig into the stories behind her deeply meaningful tales. I highly recommend reading Naomi Milliner's books, but don't take my word for it, see for yourself, as you sit back, relax and dive into our book talk! Enjoy!Naomi Millner's Books:"Jake and the King of Chaos""On All Other Nights: A Passover Celebration in 14 Stories""The Trouble with Secrets"Be sure to watch my interview with Author Naomi Millner, and don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe to E Train Talks for more inspiring author interviews, book discussions, and literary celebrations!

It was such a treat to interview award-winning children’s author, poet, and educator, Dr. JaNay Brown-Wood in-person! JaNay is a phenomenal human being, and her books are a representation of that, filled with rhymes, lyrics, and meaning! Tune into my talk with Dr. Brown-Wood and learn more about this phenomenal advocate for literacy and see why she's loved and respected by so many! Not to mention, her stories are marvelous! To add to the specialness of the day, I met up with JaNay at Oak Park's "Underground Books," a legendary independent bookstore who's gorgeous shelves are filled with an amazingly diverse collection of beautiful stories, many celebrating black authors and creators for every age reader!Thank you JaNay Brown-Wood and Underground Books for a day I'll always remember! BOOKS CHANGE LIVES!Be sure to watch my interview with Author JaNay Brown-Woods, and don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe to E Train Talks for more inspiring author interviews, book discussions, and literary celebrations!E Train Talks, Inc.Founder & Host: Ethan Where Every Child's Journey Begins with a Book. E Train Talks, Inc., is a 501©(3) nonprofit founded and led by Ethan (known as E Train), a 14-year-old award-winning literacy advocate and Giving Tuesday teen leader. E Train is committed to celebrating early literacy and inspiring a lifelong love of reading in children of all ages. Through engaging interviews with children's authors, book reviews, school visits, and literacy-focused events, E Train sparks curiosity and encourages children to discover the magic of reading. By championing diverse voices and stories, E Train not only supports language development and comprehension skills but also helps children build empathy, confidence, and a strong educational foundation. Find out more about E Train's journey at: www.etraintalks.org

In this episode of E Train Talks, we’re traveling into the suspenseful and captivating world of middle-grade mysteries with none other than #1 New York Times and USA Today Bestselling author, Lindsay Currie! Lindsay keeps middle-grade readers (myself included) on the edge of their seats with spooky, eerie and heartfelt tales like, The Girl in White, What Lives in the Woods, and her incredible Mystery of Locked Rooms! Click play and tune into my interview as we uncover some of the secrets behind Lindsay’s incredible storytelling! Be sure to watch my interview with Author Lindsay Currie, and don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe to E Train Talks for more inspiring author interviews, book discussions, and literary celebrations!E Train Talks, Inc.Founder & Host: Ethan Where Every Child's Journey Begins with a Book. E Train Talks, Inc., is a 501©(3) nonprofit founded and led by Ethan (known as E Train), a 14-year-old award-winning literacy advocate and Giving Tuesday teen leader. E Train is committed to celebrating early literacy and inspiring a lifelong love of reading in children of all ages. Through engaging interviews with children's authors, book reviews, school visits, and literacy-focused events, E Train sparks curiosity and encourages children to discover the magic of reading. By championing diverse voices and stories, E Train not only supports language development and comprehension skills but also helps children build empathy, confidence, and a strong educational foundation. Find out more about E Train's journey at: www.etraintalks.org