Hello, Readers! Welcome again to Reading in the Middle, the podcast dedicated to exploring the finest middle-grade literature and engaging in conversations with the talented creators behind these stories. I’m excited to introduce Jonathan Todd, the author and illustrator of Timid!

Jonathan calls Boston, Massachusetts, home, where he lives with his wife, two kids, and their lovable lemon beagle, Cariño. And today, he’s joining us to discuss his incredible debut graphic novel.

Timid is the story of Cecil Hall, a shy and artistic sixth grader who loves to draw but struggles to speak up. Middle school is a new world, and Cecil finds himself caught between new friendships, old loyalties, and the pressure to fit in. As he navigates self-doubt, social anxiety, and his changing friendships, Cecil must find the confidence to let his voice be heard both on paper and in real life. It’s a heartfelt and relatable story about self-acceptance, creativity, and learning that even the quietest voices deserve to be heard.

In today’s episode, Jonathan and I will talk about the inspiration behind Timid, how he brings emotions to life through his illustrations, and what it was like to go from a shy kid to a published graphic novelist. Plus, I have a fun rapid-fire round and a sneak peek at what he’s working on next!

So grab a comfy seat, maybe even a sketchbook, and let’s jump in!