On this episode of the KidLit Love podcast, I’m talking with Saadia Faruqi about her newest middle grade novel: The Strongest Heart.

This book is a poignant exploration of mental illness, the impact it has on families and the love and hope it takes to begin telling a different tale.

Come listen as we talk about Saadia’s spark for writing children’s literature, the pieces of herself on the pages and her dual hopes for readers. You won’t want to miss this conversation.

You’ll find the show notes for the episode with links to all of the books and resources mentioned right here: https://www.alitlife.com/2025/05/05/exploring-mental-illness-the-strongest-heart-with-saadia-faruqi/

Join me inside my Facebook community for bookish people! There, we talk about all things books and reading and writing and notebooking, too! You'll get updates for this podcast, along with my other Get Lit(erate). podcast and build your literate community for adult and children's literature: https://www.facebook.com/groups/getliterate

If you’d like to support the podcast, consider purchasing some KidLit Love merchandise from my Zazzle store: https://www.zazzle.com/store/alitlife 

All earnings are funneled right back into the podcast expenses and maintenance fees. Thanks for your support!

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