In this nostalgic, joy-filled chat, Dr. Jackie Douge and Dr. Nusheen Ameenuddin swap childhood favorites—The Very Hungry Caterpillar, Corduroy, The Little Engine That Could, and The Snowy Day—and reflect on how those stories read differently now through the lens of inclusion and representation. They connect picture-book memories to public health and media history (hello, Sesame Street) and celebrate newer titles they wish they’d had growing up, including The Very Hungry Caterpillar's Eid, The Beautiful Layers of Me, The House Without Lights, I'm a Doctor, and Boys Don’t Cry.

Jackie also spotlights YA reads with mystery and cultural depth—Firekeeper’s Daughter, Ace of Spades, We Deserve Monuments—and the enduring influence of Octavia Butler. Along the way, they talk empathy, banned books, and why stories must be both meaningful and fun. Expect a stack-worthy TBR and plenty of heart.