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This conversation was BUGGING me out (in the best way)! I got to interview Dr. Eleanor Spicer Rice, an entomologist and creator of "The Deadliest" book series,  where animals compete game-show style to see who's the most lethal! Dr. Rice broke down the fascinating world of pheromones, the secret chemical messages bugs use to communicate  and it blew my mind! We even played a game from her book series, and you'll never guess what the deadliest sea creature is... hint: it's NOT a shark, but something people actually eat! (Spoiler: puffer fish!) Her enthusiasm for the insect world and deadly creatures was contagious, and now I understand why the smallest and strangest animals are actually the coolest! Join me, Ishara, as I explore the wonders of science and nature with experts who help us see the world in totally new ways.

You can watch the entire interview on my YouTube channel. 

#EleanorSpicerRice #TheDeadliest #Entomology #Pheromones #PufferFish #ScienceForKids #KidsPodcast #STEMEducation #ChildrensBooks  #nationalbookfestival 

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Keep on reading and being an inspiration to each other!

And follow me on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/isharas_reading_podcast/

Please consider becoming a monthly subscriber. All proceeds will be used to buy building materials to create roadside libraries to encourage kids of all age to read. In addition, your donations will support my travels as I hit the road to interview the authors and illustrators of the books I will be reading on the podcast. #KidsPodcast, #ChildrensBooks, #ReadAloudPodcast, #StoryTimePodcast, #KidsReading, #BookLovers, #ChildrensLiterature, #KidLit, #RaisingReaders, #ChildrensAuthor, #PictureBooks, #ChapterBooks, #KidsStories, #BedtimeStories, #HomeschoolPodcast, #TeacherResources, #BookishKids

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Ishara had an amazing time at the National Book Festival interviewing the brilliant Dr. Jorge Cham! 

Dr. Cham is a cartoonist, author, and the creator of the popular webcomic "PHD Comics" (Piled Higher and Deeper), which hilariously captures life in academia and graduate school.

In this exciting interview, Ishara and Dr. Cham dive into his wonderful book "Oliver's Great Big Universe - Volcanoes are Hot", a delightful story that combines science, adventure, and curiosity!  

They discuss everything from volcanoes and earthquakes to what a Ph.D. is. Dr. Cham shares his passion for making science accessible and fun for young readers, inspiring kids to ask questions and explore the natural world around them.

Dr. Jorge Cham has a background in robotics and engineering, and he's dedicated his career to communicating science in creative and entertaining ways. Beyond "Oliver's Great Big Universe - Volcanoes are Hot," he's also co-created science communication projects and continues to inspire future scientists through his work.

This conversation is perfect for young scientists, curious minds, and anyone who loves learning about how our planet works! You can watch the entire interview on Ishara's YouTube Channel.

Stay tuned for more interviews from Ishara's 2025 National Book Festival experiences.

Support the show

Keep on reading and being an inspiration to each other!

And follow me on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/isharas_reading_podcast/

Please consider becoming a monthly subscriber. All proceeds will be used to buy building materials to create roadside libraries to encourage kids of all age to read. In addition, your donations will support my travels as I hit the road to interview the authors and illustrators of the books I will be reading on the podcast. #KidsPodcast, #ChildrensBooks, #ReadAloudPodcast, #StoryTimePodcast, #KidsReading, #BookLovers, #ChildrensLiterature, #KidLit, #RaisingReaders, #ChildrensAuthor, #PictureBooks, #ChapterBooks, #KidsStories, #BedtimeStories, #HomeschoolPodcast, #TeacherResources, #BookishKids

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Ishara is thrilled to share her latest interview with Mac Barnett, the 2025-2026 National Ambassador for Young People's Literature! As the ninth writer to receive this prestigious honor, Mac has been inspiring young readers across the country with his imaginative stories and dedication to fostering a love of reading.

Mac Barnett is a celebrated author known for his wildly creative and humor-filled books that captivate kids everywhere. In this delightful interview, Ishara and Mac dive into his hilarious "The First Cat in Space" series, which has become an instant favorite among young readers! 🚀🐱 The series follows an adventurous cat on an epic journey through space, filled with laughs, friendship, and out-of-this-world excitement.

During their conversation, Mac shares the inspiration behind this beloved series, his creative process, and what it means to be the National Ambassador for Young People's Literature. He also talks about his mission to encourage kids to embrace their creativity and discover the magic of storytelling.

Mac Barnett has written numerous award-winning books, including picture books like "Sam & Dave Dig a Hole", illustrated by Jon Klassen, and middle-grade novels like "The Terrible Two" series. His work has earned him multiple honors and a devoted following of young readers.

Want to learn more about Mac's work as National Ambassador and his initiatives to promote reading? Visit the Library of Congress website for updates on his tour and programs! 

You can watch the entire interview on Ishara's YouTube Channel. 

Recorded live at the National Book Festival

Stay tuned for more interviews from Ishara's 2025 National Book Festival experience, including conversations with Jorge Cham, Dr. Eleanor Spicer Rice, Jerry Craft, and Kwame Alexander! 

#MacBarnett #TheFirstCatInSpace #NationalAmbassador #NationalBookFestival #KidsLit #ChildrensBooks #YoungReadersLiterature #LibraryOfCongress #ReadingPodcast #KidsPodcast #AuthorInterview #PictureBooks #MiddleGrade #LiteracyMatters #RaisingReaders #BookLovers #ChildrensLiterature #JonKlassen #TheTerribleTwo #SamAndDavDigAHole #SpaceAdventure #KidsReading #BookstagramKids #ReadWithKids #LiteratureForKids #JerryCraft #KwameAlexander #JorgeCham #DrEleanorSpicerRice #IsharasReadingPodcast #YoungReaders #BookFestival2025

Support the show

Keep on reading and being an inspiration to each other!

And follow me on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/isharas_reading_podcast/

Please consider becoming a monthly subscriber. All proceeds will be used to buy building materials to create roadside libraries to encourage kids of all age to read. In addition, your donations will support my travels as I hit the road to interview the authors and illustrators of the books I will be reading on the podcast. #KidsPodcast, #ChildrensBooks, #ReadAloudPodcast, #StoryTimePodcast, #KidsReading, #BookLovers, #ChildrensLiterature, #KidLit, #RaisingReaders, #ChildrensAuthor, #PictureBooks, #ChapterBooks, #KidsStories, #BedtimeStories, #HomeschoolPodcast, #TeacherResources, #BookishKids

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Ever wonder what it's like to experience the National Book Festival through the eyes of a 10-year-old podcaster? In this special episode, Ishara takes you behind the microphone to share her favorite moments from this year's festival!

ISHARA'S TOP SESSIONS: 

"J vs. K" - Jerry Craft and Kwame Alexander's dynamic session that had the audience captivated!

"Spiders! Volcanoes! Our Scary and Amazing World" - Dr. Eleanor Spicer Rice and Dr. Jorge Cham made science absolutely fascinating!

From the creative energy of Jerry Craft and Kwame Alexander's face-off to the mind-blowing science adventures with Dr. Rice and Dr. Cham, Ishara gives you the insider scoop on what made these sessions unforgettable!

Plus: Find out which audience questions stuck with her long after the festival ended and why these particular sessions sparked her curiosity the most.

Watch the full video episode on Ishara's YouTube channel.

Recorded live at the National Book Festival

#NationalBookFestival #JerryCraft #KwameAlexander #EleanorSpicerRice #JorgeCham #IsharasReadingPodcast #BookFestival #YoungPodcaster #Science #GraphicNovels #Reading #books #Booknerd #Reading

Support the show

Keep on reading and being an inspiration to each other!

And follow me on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/isharas_reading_podcast/

Please consider becoming a monthly subscriber. All proceeds will be used to buy building materials to create roadside libraries to encourage kids of all age to read. In addition, your donations will support my travels as I hit the road to interview the authors and illustrators of the books I will be reading on the podcast. #KidsPodcast, #ChildrensBooks, #ReadAloudPodcast, #StoryTimePodcast, #KidsReading, #BookLovers, #ChildrensLiterature, #KidLit, #RaisingReaders, #ChildrensAuthor, #PictureBooks, #ChapterBooks, #KidsStories, #BedtimeStories, #HomeschoolPodcast, #TeacherResources, #BookishKids

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Two years ago, when Ishara was just 8 years old, she had the honor of interviewing U.S. Poet Laureate Joy Harjo on season 2 of Ishara's Reading Podcast about her book "Remember." What started as a young reader's curiosity blossomed into something truly special - a genuine connection that Joy treasured just as much as Ishara did!

Now, at 10 years old, Ishara gets to interview with Joy Harjo once again at the National Book Festival!

This isn't just an interview - it's a reunion between two souls who share a deep love for storytelling and the power of words.

EXCLUSIVE BOOK REVEALS: Joy shares exciting details about her THREE new books coming out:

"For a Girl Becoming"
"Girl Warrior"
"Washing My Mother's Body"

Watch as they reconnect and see how their bond has grown over the past two years. Joy's warmth and wisdom paired with Ishara's genuine curiosity and growth as a young interviewer creates pure magic.
There's something incredibly moving about witnessing how meaningful connections can form across generations when we approach each other with open hearts and authentic interest in each other's stories.

You can find the full video interview available on Ishara's YouTube channel. 


Recorded live at the National Book Festival

#JoyHarjo #ForAGirlBecoming #GirlWarrior #NationalBookFestival #YoungInterviewer #Poetry #NewBooks2024 #BookFestival #Podcast

Support the show

Keep on reading and being an inspiration to each other!

And follow me on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/isharas_reading_podcast/

Please consider becoming a monthly subscriber. All proceeds will be used to buy building materials to create roadside libraries to encourage kids of all age to read. In addition, your donations will support my travels as I hit the road to interview the authors and illustrators of the books I will be reading on the podcast. #KidsPodcast, #ChildrensBooks, #ReadAloudPodcast, #StoryTimePodcast, #KidsReading, #BookLovers, #ChildrensLiterature, #KidLit, #RaisingReaders, #ChildrensAuthor, #PictureBooks, #ChapterBooks, #KidsStories, #BedtimeStories, #HomeschoolPodcast, #TeacherResources, #BookishKids

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In this spontaneous 3-minute interview, host Ishara meets Marissa from PBS’s Social Media team right at the PBS booth during the National Book Festival! What began as a casual chat about NOVA quickly turned into an impromptu interview when they discovered their shared passion for learning and history.

Marissa opens up about why she loves working at PBS, it’s all about her passion for lifelong learning and sharing that joy with others. She and Ishara geek out over their mutual love of American history, especially the American Revolution.

🔥 Plus, a special announcement for history buffs: Ken Burns will appear in person on October 29th for an exclusive screening of his new documentary The American Revolution!

From children's books to adult nonfiction, this uplifting conversation is a reminder that curiosity has no age limit, and that unexpected moments can lead to the most memorable stories.

Don't miss this delightful interview that shows how a love of learning can lead to amazing opportunities - and a spontaneous podcast episode!  You can watch the interview on Ishara's YouTube channel.

#PBS #PBSKids #LearningIsFun #KidsReadingPodcast #NationalBookFestival #KenBurns #AmericanRevolution #History #EducationalContent #YoungInterviewer

Learning & Education: #LearningTogether #EducationMatters #HistoryLovers #SocialMedia #PublicBroadcasting #Documentary #HistoryEducation #KidsLearning

Podcast Specific: #IsharasReadingPodcast #PodcastInterview #YoungPodcaster #BookFestivalInterviews #SpontaneousInterview #KidsInterviews

Recorded live at the National Book Festival

Support the show

Keep on reading and being an inspiration to each other!

And follow me on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/isharas_reading_podcast/

Please consider becoming a monthly subscriber. All proceeds will be used to buy building materials to create roadside libraries to encourage kids of all age to read. In addition, your donations will support my travels as I hit the road to interview the authors and illustrators of the books I will be reading on the podcast. #KidsPodcast, #ChildrensBooks, #ReadAloudPodcast, #StoryTimePodcast, #KidsReading, #BookLovers, #ChildrensLiterature, #KidLit, #RaisingReaders, #ChildrensAuthor, #PictureBooks, #ChapterBooks, #KidsStories, #BedtimeStories, #HomeschoolPodcast, #TeacherResources, #BookishKids

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Join Ishara for a delightful 3-minute interview with Tanner, a young reader and aspiring chef she met at the National Book Festival!

When Ishara spotted Tanner holding a book, she just had to ask what she was reading, and that sparked a heartwarming chat about books, baking, and bold adventures!

Tanner shares her favorite book, "Kids Baking Junior," and talks about how it fuels her love for cooking. She also dives into "Tristan Strong Punches a Hole in the Sky" by Kwame Mbalia; a fantasy novel she read for camp that's full of myth and magic.

The conversation turns extra fun as Ishara talks about her own favorite series like "Percy Jackson and the Olympians" and "The School for Good and Evil." Together, these two young readers prove that books can connect kids across all interests from baking to battling monsters!

Why listen?
This short but sweet episode is a perfect reminder that:

• 📚 Kids LOVE talking about the books they’re passionate about.
• 👧🏽👧🏼 Every reader has a story and a favorite genre!
• 🧁 Whether it’s baking or fantasy adventures, there’s a book for every kid.

Tune in now or watch the episode on Ishara's YouTubeChannel: to hear how one young chef finds joy in books that match her culinary creativity, and how storytelling brings young minds together.

Recorded live at the National Book Festival

#KidsWhoRead #YoungChefs #BookFestival2025 #TannerTheChef #NationalBookFestival #PercyJacksonFans #TristanStrong #BooksAndBaking #KidLit #PodcastForKids #ReadingRocks #BookLoversUnite

Support the show

Keep on reading and being an inspiration to each other!

And follow me on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/isharas_reading_podcast/

Please consider becoming a monthly subscriber. All proceeds will be used to buy building materials to create roadside libraries to encourage kids of all age to read. In addition, your donations will support my travels as I hit the road to interview the authors and illustrators of the books I will be reading on the podcast. #KidsPodcast, #ChildrensBooks, #ReadAloudPodcast, #StoryTimePodcast, #KidsReading, #BookLovers, #ChildrensLiterature, #KidLit, #RaisingReaders, #ChildrensAuthor, #PictureBooks, #ChapterBooks, #KidsStories, #BedtimeStories, #HomeschoolPodcast, #TeacherResources, #BookishKids

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In this must-watch episode, Ishara had the amazing opportunity to sit down with the brilliant Mr. Joon S. Han, thanks to the incredible support from Ecamm’s Unstuck Studio! 😎

What you’ll learn in this episode:

• The behind-the-scenes of Podfest and how it’s transforming the podcasting industry
• Strategies to grow your podcast, brand, or business
• A thought-provoking discussion on AI’s role in understanding genetic diseases
• Real-life advice, inspiration, and laughs along the way!

Whether you're a podcaster, entrepreneur, content creator, or just curious about podcasting and tech—you’ll find massive value in this episode.

Prefer to watch? Then check this episode on Ishara's YouTube channel

A huge thank-you to Mr. Joon S. Han for sharing his insights -- and Ishara is looking forward to Podfest 2026! The future is bright!

👉 Don’t forget to like, comment, subscribe, and hit the bell so you never miss an episode!

Support the show

Keep on reading and being an inspiration to each other!

And follow me on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/isharas_reading_podcast/

Please consider becoming a monthly subscriber. All proceeds will be used to buy building materials to create roadside libraries to encourage kids of all age to read. In addition, your donations will support my travels as I hit the road to interview the authors and illustrators of the books I will be reading on the podcast. #KidsPodcast, #ChildrensBooks, #ReadAloudPodcast, #StoryTimePodcast, #KidsReading, #BookLovers, #ChildrensLiterature, #KidLit, #RaisingReaders, #ChildrensAuthor, #PictureBooks, #ChapterBooks, #KidsStories, #BedtimeStories, #HomeschoolPodcast, #TeacherResources, #BookishKids

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Ready to uncover the next big mystery in how a pope is chosen?
In this exciting follow-up episode of our special conclave series, Ishara and Father Ron return to reveal the secret world of papal voting inside the Sistine Chapel! 

Ever wondered how the cardinals actually pick a new pope? Spoiler: it’s not just raising hands—there are handwritten ballots, a special stove, and smoke signals that send the whole world watching a chimney!

We’ll walk you through the fascinating process step by step, from the first vote to the dramatic moment smoke rises into the sky. What does the black smoke mean? When do we get white smoke? And why is everyone staring at a rooftop in Rome?

This time, Ishara’s got some very special help—her grandmothers are in Rome during the conclave! Acting as our on-the-ground correspondents, they share real-time updates with photos, videos, and answers to Ishara’s curious questions (coming in Part 3!).

Perfect for curious kids in grades 2–7, Catholic classrooms, homeschool families, and anyone who loves a good mystery wrapped in history. Get ready for tradition, surprises, and behind-the-scenes secrets you may have never heard before.

Tune in and discover how one of the world’s oldest elections really works—with a little help from awesome grandmas in St. Peter’s Square!

You can also watch this episode on Ishara’s YouTube channel—don’t miss it!

For more information on worship, music, and parish life at St. Ignatius of Loyola Catholic Church please check out the website. 

Support the show

Keep on reading and being an inspiration to each other!

And follow me on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/isharas_reading_podcast/

Please consider becoming a monthly subscriber. All proceeds will be used to buy building materials to create roadside libraries to encourage kids of all age to read. In addition, your donations will support my travels as I hit the road to interview the authors and illustrators of the books I will be reading on the podcast. #KidsPodcast, #ChildrensBooks, #ReadAloudPodcast, #StoryTimePodcast, #KidsReading, #BookLovers, #ChildrensLiterature, #KidLit, #RaisingReaders, #ChildrensAuthor, #PictureBooks, #ChapterBooks, #KidsStories, #BedtimeStories, #HomeschoolPodcast, #TeacherResources, #BookishKids

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Ever heard the word conclave and thought, “Wait—what’s that?” You’re not alone! In this special series, this fun, kid-friendly Catholic podcast! Discover how conclaves work, why cardinals meet in the Sistine Chapel, and what the black and white smoke really means. Perfect for grades 2–7, homeschool families, and Catholic educators.

Ishara gets the help of Father Ron from St. Ignatius of Loyola Catholic Church, we’ll explore the history, traditions, and behind-the-scenes secrets of one of the most important—and most hidden—events in the Catholic Church.

In Part 1, we dive into the basics: What is a conclave, and why do all the cardinals meet in the Sistine Chapel to choose a new pope? Father Ron explains why they actually get locked inside (yep, really!) and how this tradition has been around for centuries.

Then, join us for Part 2, where we uncover how the voting works (spoiler: there’s paper involved!) and what’s really going on with that famous white and black smoke coming from the chimney. From secret ballots to ancient rituals, get ready for some surprising facts and cool history—this is church history like you’ve never heard it before!

You can also watch this episode on Ishara’s YouTube channel—don’t miss it!

For more information on worship, music, and parish life at St. Ignatius of Loyola Catholic Church please check out the website. 

Support the show

Keep on reading and being an inspiration to each other!

And follow me on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/isharas_reading_podcast/

Please consider becoming a monthly subscriber. All proceeds will be used to buy building materials to create roadside libraries to encourage kids of all age to read. In addition, your donations will support my travels as I hit the road to interview the authors and illustrators of the books I will be reading on the podcast. #KidsPodcast, #ChildrensBooks, #ReadAloudPodcast, #StoryTimePodcast, #KidsReading, #BookLovers, #ChildrensLiterature, #KidLit, #RaisingReaders, #ChildrensAuthor, #PictureBooks, #ChapterBooks, #KidsStories, #BedtimeStories, #HomeschoolPodcast, #TeacherResources, #BookishKids