Welcome to Reading in the Middle, where we explore the stories that help kids understand themselves and the world around them. I’m your host, Annisha Jeffries.

Today’s episode centers on a book that speaks directly to children who feel different, unheard, or unsure where they belong. Jonathan Del Arco and Trisha DiFazio join me to talk about Freddy the Alien.

Inspired by Jonathan’s experience immigrating from Uruguay to New York City, Freddy the Alien follows a young boy who feels like an outsider in a new country, a new school, and a new language. Trisha brings her background as an educator to the story, grounding Freddy’s experience in what many multilingual learners face—especially the quiet, often misunderstood “silent period” of language acquisition.

Together, Jonathan and Trisha have created a story about identity, patience, empathy, and the power of adults who truly see and support children as they find their footing.

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