Kidlit Love: Conversations with Picture Book and Middle Grade Authors

Happy Thursday!

I’m back in your Inbox for the third time this week and I hope you’ve loved the additional kidlit love that been filling your feed! As promised, here’s the podcast episode with Amy Sarig King discussing her newest release: IT CAME FROM THE CREEK. It’s a must read!

Keep scrolling to press play on the episode!

Stephanie

E254: IT CAME FROM THE CREEK by Amy Sarig King

On this episode of the KidLit Love podcast, I’m talking with Amy Sarig King about her newest release: IT CAME FROM THE CREEK.

Set in 1980, this middle grade novel deals with timely themes of community activism, environmental neglect and bullying in a kid-friendly way with lots of humor and heart. It’s a book that will invite you into the story, make you think and perhaps even take some action.

Come listen as we talk about why weird is good and the different ways Amy writes her middle grade novels versus young adult, the haunted house that planted the seed for this book and her dual hopes for readers everywhere.

Here is the book featured in this episode. You’ll find links to my Amazon and Bookshop affiliate stores below. Thanks for your bookish support!

IT CAME FROM THE CREEK by Amy Sarig King (Amazon / Bookshop)

Here’s where you can find Amy online:

Website: https://www.as-king.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/as_king_

I’d love to know what you think of this episode. Share your comments below!

KidLit love is multiplied when it’s shared! 🩷

Here are some free ways to support this newsletter and spread my love of children’s literature far and wide:

🩷 Like and comment on this post so we can connect!🔄 Restack and add your favorite nugget from the podcast.📷 Take a screenshot of your favorite part and text it to a kidlit friend.💌 Forward this email to a fellow kidlit colleague so they can join the book love too!⌨️ Refer a friend and earn prizes….including courses and coaching sessions with me!

Thanks for reading the KidLit Love newsletter! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work!

Happy Tuesday!

Today, I’m talking with Kate DiCamillo to celebrate the second season of her podcast with Kelly Yang called StoryKind. It’s a joyful conversation you won’t want to miss!

Keep scrolling to press play on the episode!

Stephanie

E253: Celebrating KidLit: The StoryKind Podcast with Kate DiCamillo

On this episode of the KidLit Love podcast, I’m talking with Kate DiCamillo to celebrate the second season of her podcast with Kelly Yang called StoryKind.

Come listen as we talk about how the podcast came to be and the joy it brings to those who love kidlit and want to write it. We talk about serious writing questions, lighter writing questions and end with a celebration of both of them, as well as the kidlit community as a whole. Here’s where you can find the podcast: https://storykind.org/. I know you’ll love it as much as I do!

I’d love to know what you think of this episode. Share your comments below!

KidLit love is multiplied when it’s shared! 🩷

Here are some free ways to support this newsletter and spread my love of children’s literature far and wide:

🩷 Like and comment on this post so we can connect!🔄 Restack and add your favorite nugget from the podcast.📷 Take a screenshot of your favorite part and text it to a kidlit friend.💌 Forward this email to a fellow kidlit colleague so they can join the book love too!⌨️ Refer a friend and earn prizes….including courses and coaching sessions with me!

Thanks for reading the KidLit Love newsletter! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work!

Happy Monday!

It’s going to be a busy week on the KidLit Love podcast and newsletter! Here’s what’s coming your way:

* Today, I’m sharing a podcast episode with Leslie Adame about her newest book: CHLOE VEGA & THE MISSING UNSEEN. It’s middle grade fantasy at its best.

* Tomorrow, I’m sharing a special bonus episode with Kate DiCamillo to celebrate the second season of her podcast with Kelly Yang: StoryKind!

* Finally, on Thursday, I’m sharing a bonus episode with Amy Sarig King about her newest novel: IT CAME FROM THE CREEK. It’s so good.

Get you Inbox ready for all the kidlit love coming your way!

Keep scrolling to press play on that episode and to see other new books that have made their way into my reading life!

Stephanie

Book Birthdays and Other Book Reviews🎈🎁📖🎂📚🎉

Here are the newly released books that have made their way to me along with other books that I have read and reviewed:

🎉ANIMALS OF THE CHINESE ZODIAC by Teresa Robeson & Illustrated by Ping Zhu (Amazon / Bookshop)

Oh, this book is a treasure! I’ve read it multiple times and shared it with everyone. We’ve discovered our zodiac animals along with our lucky numbers, colors and flowers, too. Plus, it’s GORGEOUS to look at again and again.

🎉MILLIE FLEUR’S WORST DAY EVER (Amazon / Bookshop)

Are you a morgenmuffel, someone who is slow to wake up and quite grumpy in doing so? In this gorgeous book, Millie learns that it’s ok to have a hard day and we don’t have to carry it all on our shoulders. Friends can help. It’s lovely!

🎉THE SMUSHKINS IN THE SNOW by Claudia Rueda (Amazon / Bookshop)

I chatted with Claudia about her picture book MEET THE SMUSKINS on the podcast a while back and now, she’s released her newest board book in the series. Join the Smushkins as they romp and play in the snow, perfect for heading into the Winter season. I’m still hoping for Smushkin stuffed animals. =)

🎉CHRONICLES OF A LIZARD NOBODY: THE PELICAN AND HIS BLIMP by Patrick Ness & Illustrated by Tim Miller (Amazon / Bookshop)

This is the third illustrated chapter book in the hilarious CHRONICLES OF A LIZARD NOBODY series. Our trio of hall monitor lizards, along with their hawk pal, Miel, are dealing with some unexpected arrivals in town. Alicia’s estranged dad suddenly wants to be in her life again, and the tough girl lizard has retreated into her ever-present hoodie. It’s up to Zeke and Daniel to figure out how to help their friend while also keeping an eye on the massive blimp that has appeared in the sky over school bully Pelicarnassus’s house. What is their nemesis up to now?

🎉JUST THE GOOD PARTS by Robbie Couch (Amazon / Bookshop)

This is a stunningly romantic, speculative novel about a teen looking for his missing dad, who keeps getting pulled into others’ memories and crossing paths with a handsome stranger who also doesn’t belong there.

E252: The Power of What If: CHLOE VEGA & THE MISSING UNSEEN by Leslie Adame

On this episode of the KidLit Love podcast, I’m talking with Leslie Adame about her newest release: CHLOE VEGA & THE MISSING UNSEEN.

This book is the second in the middle grade CHLOE VEGA series that expands Choloe’s magical world and examines timely themes of identity and justice. Readers are sure to get lost in the fantasy, but feel the very real themes of the book in our present world.

Come listen as we talk about the original career Leslie thought she’d have, the possibilities of the fantasy genre to explore real-world themes and topics and the two-word question that not only sparked the content of the book, but that Leslie hopes will spark readers, too.

Here is the book featured in this episode. You’ll find links to my Amazon and Bookshop affiliate stores below. Thanks for your bookish support!

CHLOE VEGA & THE MISSING UNSEEN by Leslie Adame (Amazon / Bookshop)

Here’s where you can find Leslie online:

Website: https://www.leslieadame.com/

Substack

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leslieadame

I’d love to know what you think of this episode. Share your comments below!

KidLit love is multiplied when it’s shared! 🩷

Here are some free ways to support this newsletter and spread my love of children’s literature far and wide:

🩷 Like and comment on this post so we can connect!🔄 Restack and add your favorite nugget from the podcast.📷 Take a screenshot of your favorite part and text it to a kidlit friend.💌 Forward this email to a fellow kidlit colleague so they can join the book love too!⌨️ Refer a friend and earn prizes….including courses and coaching sessions with me!

Thanks for reading the KidLit Love newsletter! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work!

Happy Monday!

I know this podcast focuses on picture books and middle grade novels, but I could not say YES to a podcast interview fast enough when I saw that Jasmine Guillory recently published a young adult novel: IT’S ONLY DANCING. I absolutely adored her adult novel ROYAL HOLIDAY and knew I’d love this one, too. I was right. =)

Keep scrolling to press play on the episode!

Stephanie

E251: IT’S ONLY DANCING by Jasmine Guillory

On this episode of the KidLit Love podcast, I’m talking with Jasmine Guillory about her young adult debut: IT’S ONLY DANCING.

Her newest book addresses body image issues, socioeconomic status, perfectionism, coming of age, first loves and so much more. Plus, it’s loosely inspired by the hit movie Dirty Dancing, a movie I’ve loved for years.

Come listen as we talk about Jasmine’s prolific writing career and how she stays motivated, how it was to shift from writing adult novels to young adult literature and the way readers can enjoy the book and connect on a deeper level, too.

Here is the book featured in this episode. You’ll find links to my Amazon and Bookshop affiliate stores below. Thanks for your bookish support!

IT’S ONLY DANCING by Jasmine Guillory (Amazon / Bookshop)

Here’s where you can find Jasmine online:

Website: https://www.jasmineguillory.com/

Instagram: http://instagram.com/jasminepics

I’d love to know what you think of this episode. Share your comments below!

KidLit love is multiplied when it’s shared! 🩷

Here are some free ways to support this newsletter and spread my love of children’s literature far and wide:

🩷 Like and comment on this post so we can connect!🔄 Restack and add your favorite nugget from the podcast.📷 Take a screenshot of your favorite part and text it to a kidlit friend.💌 Forward this email to a fellow kidlit colleague so they can join the book love too!⌨️ Refer a friend and earn prizes….including courses and coaching sessions with me!

Thanks for reading the KidLit Love newsletter! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work!

Happy Monday!

This week, I shared something pretty exciting that I want to make sure you know about: KidLit Love: Inside the Book!

It’s a reading and writing subscription box experience for anyone interested in writing children’s literature or simply appreciating it even more. In other words…YOU!

The box features one carefully chosen children’s book, one writerly surprise and a live Zoom conversation with the author focused on the writing process and writer’s craft. Together, we’ll read like writers, look closely at how the story works, hear the behind-the-book story, and gather inspiration for our own writing.

Click here to learn more and see who the author is!

Keep scrolling to press play on that episode and to see other new books that have made their way into my reading life!

Stephanie

Book Birthdays and Other Book Reviews🎈🎁📖🎂📚🎉

Here are the newly released books that have made their way to me along with other books that I have read and reviewed:

🎉MOMMA’S CHRISTMAS GIFT by Kao Kalia Yang (Amazon / Bookshop)

This book is a modern Gift of the Magi tale of a poor Hmong family celebrating Christmas and the love, sacrifice, and generosity that holds them close. A mother in her red coat truly captures the spirit of the holiday. I absolutely adore this author’s writing and she’s been on the podcast THREE times! Listen to us talk about CAGED, THE DIAMOND EXPLORER and THE BLUE HOUSE I LOVED.

🎉Ruth Muskrat and the So-Called Indian Problem: The Fight for Native American Civil Rights by Jen Loren (Amazon / Bookshop)

From Caldecott Medalist Rebecca Lee Kunz and award-winning filmmaker and TV host Jen Loren comes a sweeping biography of a singular woman at the heart of the movement for Native American civil rights in the 20th century. I adore narrative non-fiction and this book is moving to the top of the list.

🎉A Forest, A Family, A Harbor, A Home by Nikki McClure (Amazon / Bookshop)

This is a lyrical and lovely picture book about a child exploring the world as he grows. Gorgeously handcrafted, rooted in the nature and landscape of the Northwest, and threaded with the experience of child- and parenthood, it’s a deeply felt meditation on the intimacy of home, the wonder of the world, and the magic of discovery.

🎉Up from the Ashes by Sharon Cameron (Amazon / Bookshop)

The #1 New York Times bestselling author Sharon Cameron returns with a stunning story about the fight to survive and find love in the face of the ugliest of nightmares, based on the true story of two heroes and their resistance in the Sobibor death camp during the Holocaust. It’s incredibly powerful and moving.

🎉I am Wishing Every Minute for Christmas by Lauren Child (Amazon / Bookshop)

I adored watching Charlie and Lola with my own children and now, we can celebrate Christmas with them, too! I was wrapped in the spirit of the holiday INSTANTLY.

🎉Dragonborn: The Twilight Child by Struan Murray (Amazon / Bookshop)

When tragedy strikes the island of Skralla, Alex and her friends journey north to the heart of Scotland, where dark plots are in motion, and humans and dragons fight side-by-side against a rising storm of ancient demons. Sinister forces are growing stronger every day, and as friendships fall apart and enemies old and new strike from the shadows, Alex must master her own fearsome power, and unravel a mystery that might just be the key to victory: the legend of the Twilight Child.

🎉Wide Eye by Jennifer Liss (Amazon / Bookshop)

This is a whimsical middle-grade adventure about a young girl, a wacky museum, and a local monster, exploring the transformative power of imagination. It’s quintessential middle grade enjoyment.

🎉The Tiny Thing by Ellen Tarlow (Amazon / Bookshop)

A mole stumbles upon a tiny thing and finds his life forever changed by the power of imagination and finding self-confidence in this tender and enchanting picture book. Oh, this one has my heart!

E250: HERE COMES THE BAND by Shadra Strickland

On this episode of the KidLit Love podcast, I’m talking with Shadra Strickland about her newest picture book: HERE COMES THE BAND.

This delightful picture book is about a young child who watches in awe as a historically black college and University (HBCU) band takes the field and works its magic. It’s completely immersive and you can literally feel the musical energy on the page.

Come listen as we talk about the shift that changed everything in Shadra’s career, the ways she gathers language and dives deep into the topic of her book and her hopes for readers around fun, music and creativity. You’re sure to feel the energy of the book AND this conversation.

Here is the book featured in this episode. You’ll find links to my Amazon and Bookshop affiliate stores below. Thanks for your bookish support!

HERE COMES THE BAND by Shadra Strickland (Amazon / Bookshop)

Here’s where you can find Shadra online:

Website: https://www.jumpin.shadrastrickland.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shadrieka

I’d love to know what you think of this episode. Share your comments below!

KidLit love is multiplied when it’s shared! 🩷

Here are some free ways to support this newsletter and spread my love of children’s literature far and wide:

🩷 Like and comment on this post so we can connect!🔄 Restack and add your favorite nugget from the podcast.📷 Take a screenshot of your favorite part and text it to a kidlit friend.💌 Forward this email to a fellow kidlit colleague so they can join the book love too!⌨️ Refer a friend and earn prizes….including courses and coaching sessions with me!

Thanks for reading the KidLit Love newsletter! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work!

Happy Monday!

Well, it’s officially Fall and that means the Fall reading season can officially begin! For me, that means reading with my comfy socks and blanket in the cooler weather, a pumpkin spice candle lit on the counter and a hot cup of coffee or tea to pair with my books. What does Fall reading season look like for you?

This week, I’m sharing another long list of newly published books that I know you’ll love. I’ve even linked to previous episodes and Q&A posts to some of the authors.

Keep scrolling to press play on that episode and to see other new books that have made their way into my reading life!

Stephanie

Book Birthdays and Other Book Reviews🎈🎁📖🎂📚🎉

Here are the newly released books that have made their way to me along with other books that I have read and reviewed:

🎉LOST EVANGELINE by Kate DiCamillo (Amazon / Bookshop)

Return to the magical land of Norendy in this third original fairy tale by renowned storyteller Kate DiCamillo. Open the page, sink in, feel the magic and become swept away. It’s a beautiful book. Listen to Kate talk about FERRIS on a previous podcast episode here!

🎉NIGHT OF MADNESS by Ryan Douglass (Amazon / Bookshop)

Teen influencers compete in a horror movie–themed overnight competition, only to realize the real test is staying alive in this chilling, blood-soaked YA horror novel. And guess what?! The hardcover features sprayed stenciled edges while the special edition supply lasts!

🎉THE INTERGALACTICS by Erik Jon Slangerup (Amazon / Bookshop)

A mutant boy questions the truth of his existence after crash-landing far from everything he knows in this fast-paced, action-packed middle grade sci-fi adventure. It is perfect for the middle grade reader looking for page-turning adventure!

🎉VENUS WASHINGTON: EYE SPY by Maisha Oso (Amazon / Bookshop)

This is a new-to-me series that I’m so very glad I found. This is the third book in the hilarious chapter book series focused on Venus Washington…who WAS born on Earth, by the way. =) Such a great collection of books!

🎉TASTING WORDS by Dezh Azaad and Nelly Buchet (Amazon / Bookshop)

A clever little girl figures out a way to help her grandmother assimilate and make friends in a new country through her love of food because there’s nothing like food to turn strangers into friends! This is an INCREDIBLE picture book filled with family, friendship and love.

🎉WE ARE FREE: OUR FIRST AMENDMENT RIGHTS by Allison Matulli (Amazon / Bookshop)

This book gives a powerful introduction to the great freedom and power that comes with America’s constitutional First Amendment rights, just in time for the U.S.A.’s 250th anniversary! The color scheme is amazing and the illustrations are striking, perfect to help us feel our emotions on the page, too.

🎉MO FARAH, THE BOY WHO RAN TO BE FREE by Dr. Seema Yasmin (Amazon / Bookshop)

This is the second book in the exciting nonfiction Muslim Mavericks chapter book series about Olympic gold medalist Mo Farah. Read Dr. Seema Yasmin’s Q&A post about the first book in the series here!

🎉TURKEY ON THE RUN by Alayne Kay Christian (Amazon / Bookshop)

When a turkey is caught in a trap on Thanksgiving morning, he knows it can only mean one thing: a one-way trip to the dinner table. But this particular turkey won’t give up without a fight, so he takes to the streets in a daring escape! It’s sure to become a classic Thanksgiving story!

E249: OUR FAVORITE DAY OF THE WEEK by Ashley Franklin

On this episode of the KidLit Love podcast, I’m talking with Ashley Franklin about her newest book: OUR FAVORITE DAY OF THE WEEK.

This heart warming picture book follows a group of children who share their favorite day of the way and why each one is special to them. It’s a follow-up sequel to OUR FAVORITE DAY OF THE YEAR by A. E. Ali and shares a heartfelt message about how our favorite days make us feel.

Come listen as we talk about what brought Ashley to children’s literature, the depth of conversation and connection that can come from the pages and her heartfelt hopes for the book around classroom community and belonging.

Here is the book featured in this episode. You’ll find links to my Amazon and Bookshop affiliate stores below. Thanks for your bookish support!

OUR FAVORITE DAY OF THE WEEK by Ashley Franklin (Amazon / Bookshop)

Here’s where you can find Ashley online:

Website: https://ashleyfranklinwrites.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ashleyfranklinwrites/

I’d love to know what you think of this episode. Share your comments below!

KidLit love is multiplied when it’s shared! 🩷

Here are some free ways to support this newsletter and spread my love of children’s literature far and wide:

🩷 Like and comment on this post so we can connect!🔄 Restack and add your favorite nugget from the podcast.📷 Take a screenshot of your favorite part and text it to a kidlit friend.💌 Forward this email to a fellow kidlit colleague so they can join the book love too!⌨️ Refer a friend and earn prizes….including courses and coaching sessions with me!

Thanks for reading the KidLit Love newsletter! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work!

Happy Monday!

Boy, are you in for A LOT of treats today! Not only am I sharing a wonderful conversation with a favorite author/illustrator of mine, but I’m sharing ELEVEN new or new-to-me books that have made their way to me. It’s a bookish celebration around here and I’m thrilled to share them with you.

Keep scrolling to press play on that episode and to see other new books that have made their way into my reading life!

Stephanie

Book Birthdays and Other Book Reviews🎈🎁📖🎂📚🎉

Here are the newly released books that have made their way to me along with other books that I have read and reviewed:

🎉The Christmas Wish by Lee Heart (Amazon / Bookshop)

A girl full of holiday spirit hopes to get her secret crush’s attention for Christmas in this latest installment in the acclaimed tween middle grade rom-com series, Spotlight Sprinkles—full of evergreen tropes like holiday parties and the magic of the season! It’s like an age-appropriate Hallmark movie in a book. I would have adored this series as a young reader but am glad I have the chance to read it now!

🎉Mission Manta Ray (R.A.P.T.O.R.) by Philip Kavvadias (Amazon / Bookshop)

Finn and his friends defend a deep-sea octopus from an unknown danger in this hilarious and action-packed second book in the R.A.P.T.O.R. middle grade series perfect for fans of Alex Rider and Jurassic Park.

🎉Hardy Boys Clue Book Fall Mysteries 3-in-1: The Bad Luck Skate; The Pirate Ghost; The Great Pumpkin Smash by Franklin W. Dixon (Amazon / Bookshop)

Brothers Frank and Joe Hardy tackle three spooky investigations in this fall-themed Hardy Boys Clue Book three-books-in-one paperback bind-up! It’s perfect for the upcoming Fall season of reading!

🎉The Adventures of Pippi Longstocking by Astrid Lindgren & Illustrated by Bailey Sullivan (Amazon)

Since Pippi Longstocking was first published in 1950, the escapades of the incomparable Pippi, the girl with upside-down braids and no parents to tell her what to do, have delighted boys and girls alike. Now, for the first time, Pippi Longstocking, Pippi Goes on Board, and Pippi in the South Seas are all together in one bumper volume, with new illustrations in full-color and black-and-white. It’s full of nostalgia and is beautiful to page through, too!

🎉A Dangerous Bargain by Erin Cotter (Amazon / Bookshop)

A young artist who has bargained away most of his life for divine inspiration pairs up with fellow apprentice Leonardo da Vinci to infiltrate the Medici family and find out the truth about his missing brother in this Renaissance-set young adult mystery perfect for fans of F.T. Lukens.

🎉5-Minute Maisy Stories: A Bedtime Read-Aloud Picture Book Collection for Kids Ages 2-5 by Lucy Cousins (Amazon / Bookshop)

As an adult, I have a Pause Pile of books that can fill my mind when I have a few minutes. This is the equivalent for kids! This fun-filled collection contains seven stories starring Maisy and her friends, all crafted to be read in five minutes or less.

🎉The Uncles by Tunisia Williams (Amazon / Bookshop)

A young boy calls on his loving uncles for a much-needed boys’ day in the wake of his father’s death in this touching debut picture book about grief and healing that’s a heartfelt homage to strong men who step in as loving role models for the children who need them. This oversized book has my heart and will certainly have yours, too.

🎉Day Shift, Night Shift by Ariel Vanece (Amazon / Bookshop)

A young girl uses her wits, science, and a little inspiration from her train engineer grandfather to get her toy train to run in this endearing picture book. It’s bursting full of love, curiosity and connection.

🎉Ezekiel’s Volcano by Ana Angelica Teodoro (Amazon / Bookshop)

This is a heartfelt picture book that reminds children that every emotion is welcome and that they already have the tools within themselves to navigate life’s biggest feelings with confidence, courage, and kindness. It’s written by a teacher and introduces young (and adult!) readers to Rainbow Breathing, something I’m adding to my own toolbox now!

🎉Special by Nancy F. Goodfellow (Amazon / Bookshop)

Told through the alternating perspectives of two seventh-grade girls—one with Down syndrome and one without—Special is a story about friendship, identity, loss, and belonging.

🎉Beware the Sock Monkeys! by Jonathan Stutzman (Amazon / Bookshop)

From the New York Times bestselling author of the Tiny T-Rex series and creators of the popular Llama trilogy, comes a hilarious picture book about what really happens when your socks go missing… You’ll never look at missing socks the same again! =)

E248: STELLA & MARIGOLD: PAST AND PRESENTS with Sophie Blackall

On this episode of the KidLit Love podcast, I’m talking with Sophie Blackall about the newest book in the STELLA & MARIGOLD series with Annie Barrows: PAST AND PRESENTS.

This book follows the imaginative adventures of two young sisters as they uncover who might have lived in their half-house in the past and the presents left behind. As with the other books in this illustrated chapter book series, it is simply delightful.

Come listen as we talk about the exact moment Sophie knew she wanted to be an illustrator, the outstretched hands that helped Sophie in her journey, the true magic of children’s literature and a new word that you might not have heard of before. The conversation was a true delight and I’ll cherish it.

Here is the book featured in this episode. You’ll find links to my Amazon and Bookshop affiliate stores below. Thanks for your bookish support!

STELLA & MARIGOLD: PAST AND PRESENTS by Annie Barrows and Illustrated by Sophie Blackall (Amazon / Bookshop)

Here’s where you can find Sophie online:

Website: https://www.sophieblackall.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sophieblackall/

I’d love to know what you think of this episode. Share your comments below!

KidLit love is multiplied when it’s shared! 🩷

Here are some free ways to support this newsletter and spread my love of children’s literature far and wide:

🩷 Like and comment on this post so we can connect!🔄 Restack and add your favorite nugget from the podcast.📷 Take a screenshot of your favorite part and text it to a kidlit friend.💌 Forward this email to a fellow kidlit colleague so they can join the book love too!⌨️ Refer a friend and earn prizes….including courses and coaching sessions with me!

Thanks for reading the KidLit Love newsletter! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work!

Happy Thursday!

I’m here with a bonus episode that I absolutely cannot wait to share with you. It’s a beautiful conversation about a beautiful book that just found its way into the world: THAT YOU ARE HERE IS NO SMALL THING by Traci N. Todd and illustrated by Vashti Harrison. It’s stunning and I hope you’ll press play and listen!

Stephanie

E247: THAT YOU ARE HERE IS NO SMALL THING by Traci N. Todd

On this episode of the KidLit Love podcast, I’m talking with Traci N. Todd about her newest picture book: THAT YOU ARE HERE IS NO SMALL THING.

This stunning picture book is an unforgettable exploration of culture and history that records the important survival story Black children carry and celebrates their hope for a radiant future. It’s a book you’ll feel deep in your heart.

Come listen as we talk about the bravery she built up over ten years to share her writing, the birthday gift to herself that inspired her newest book and the beautiful way she wove together science, history and wonder as Vashti Harrison worked her illustration magic to complement it.

Here is the book featured in this episode. You’ll find links to my Amazon and Bookshop affiliate stores below. Thanks for your bookish support!

THAT YOU ARE HERE IS NO SMALL THING by Traci N. Todd (Amazon / Bookshop)

Here’s where you can find Traci online:

Traci’s Website: https://www.tracitodd.com/

I’d love to know what you think of this episode. Share your comments below!

KidLit love is multiplied when it’s shared! 🩷

Here are some free ways to support this newsletter and spread my love of children’s literature far and wide:

🩷 Like and comment on this post so we can connect!🔄 Restack and add your favorite nugget from the podcast.📷 Take a screenshot of your favorite part and text it to a kidlit friend.💌 Forward this email to a fellow kidlit colleague so they can join the book love too!⌨️ Refer a friend and earn prizes….including courses and coaching sessions with me!

Thanks for reading the KidLit Love newsletter! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work!

Happy Monday!

When the KidLit Love podcast first launched, I talked with authors of picture books, middle grade books and young adult novels, too. As I got to know the my audience, it was clear that listeners gravitated more toward the picture books and middle grade age groups, so I quietly shifted my podcast to only focus on that niche.

But when the opportunity came to talk with Megan E. Freeman about her young adult debut novel, I just could not resist. I adore Megan’s books and absolutely loved our conversation on the podcast about her dystopian verse novels: ALONE and AWAY. So, when I heard about her debut young adult novel, I just couldn’t resist asking her back. I hope you loved this new conversation as much as I do!

Plus, I HAVE NEWS. I’m thrilled to announce that I’m launching a new KidLit Love subscription box called INSIDE THE BOOK. I’ll share a formal announcement soon, but here’s a bit of a teaser:

KidLit Love: Inside the Book is a reading + writing experience for anyone interested in writing children’s literature.

Each edition features one carefully chosen children’s book, one writerly surprise, and an intimate live Zoom conversation with the author focused on writer’s craft and inspiration. Together, we’ll read like writers, look closely at how the story works, hear the behind-the-book story and gather inspiration for our own writing.

I’d love to get your feedback as I get ready to open the doors. If you answer these short questions, send me a message or leave your name below for a special coupon for a discount on the first round in November!

Thank you for your feedback. Leave any wants and wishes in the comments below. Stay tuned for the big reveal with our very first author. Here’s your one hint: She’s been on the podcast before with a narrative picture book biography that I absolutely adored and want wait to look at through a writer’s lens!

Keep scrolling to press play on that episode and to see other new books that have made their way into my reading life!

Stephanie

Book Birthdays and Other Book Reviews🎈🎁📖🎂📚🎉

Here are the newly released books that have made their way to me along with other books that I have read and reviewed:

🎉WHALE FALL by Elysia Rourke (Amazon / Bookshop)

This heart-warming middle grade novel features a young orca who dreams of becoming the matriarch of her pod and instead finds herself living a life in captivity. It’s a deeply moving story of family, determination, and hope as a majestic creature weathers the storms of a life she’s not in control of.

🎉THE DOT Deluxe Gift Edition by Peter H. Reynolds (From Candlewick)

Dot day is almost here! This beautiful slipcased gift edition features an introduction to International Dot Day, a link to a guide for burgeoning artists and their teachers, and a heartfelt letter from the author. Listen to our conversation on the podcast!

E246: Stunning YA Verse: THE SECRET TO BELONGING by Megan E. Freeman

On this episode of the KidLit Love podcast, I’m talking with Megan E. Freeman about her young adult debut: THE SECRET TO BELONGING.

This stunning novel-in-verse is about longing, love and the courage to find joy from despair. It’s beautifully lyrical, deeply emotional and highly inspirational, too. You won’t want to miss this one!

Come listen as we talk about the intimacy we build with characters, the incredibly moving themes around family, new experiences and growing through challenges and Megan’s hope for both the readers who already know and love her earlier novels to the new young adult readers who find their way to this book.

Here is the book featured in this episode. You’ll find links to my Amazon and Bookshop affiliate stores below. Thanks for your bookish support!

THE SECRET TO BELONGING by Megan E. Freeman (Amazon / Bookshop)

Here’s where you can find Megan online:

Website: https://www.meganefreeman.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/megan_e_freeman_writer

I’d love to know what you think of this episode. Share your comments below!

KidLit love is multiplied when it’s shared! 🩷

Here are some free ways to support this newsletter and spread my love of children’s literature far and wide:

🩷 Like and comment on this post so we can connect!🔄 Restack and add your favorite nugget from the podcast.📷 Take a screenshot of your favorite part and text it to a kidlit friend.💌 Forward this email to a fellow kidlit colleague so they can join the book love too!⌨️ Refer a friend and earn prizes….including courses and coaching sessions with me!

Thanks for reading the KidLit Love newsletter! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work!

Happy Monday!

The episode I’m releasing this week is incredibly near and dear to my heart for a few reasons.

* First, I absolutely adore Shifa Saltagi Safadi as a human and cherish our conversations about books, writing and children’s literature.

* Second, Shifa’s books are all incredibly powerful and emotional and I feel such pride at helping her launch them into the world.

* And third, this is the THIRD time that Shifa has been on the podcast and I’m beyond grateful for the opportunities this podcast has given me to connect with authors, listeners and readers over time.

This podcast is a true joy in my life and I want to thank all of you for sharing it with me! Your support means so much and I’m thrilled to announce I’ve started a private community here on Substack for those who want even more kidlit love!

I’ve been considering a potential community like this for a while and thinking through what we might explore and do together. I’ve finally settled on something near and dear to my heart with plenty of room to grow. Here it is…

I believe books help us become who we want to be and children’s books have something to teach grown-ups, too. I talk about this often on the podcast and even celebrate it on the opening jingle. So, I’d like this private community to become a joyful space for adults who adore children’s literature just as much as I do and actively include picture books and middle grade novels into their reading lives…and maybe even want to write them.

Each month, paid KidLit Love subscribers will receive a Picture Book Prescription: a carefully selected children’s book and a simple invitation to read it with grown-up eyes, reflect on what it might have to say about the life you’re living, and carry one small piece of its wisdom forward. Plus, you’ll find things like:

* Bookish surprises — giveaways and occasional special invitations

* Early access to future experiences and events

* Paid chat threads where we talk books together

* KidLit book stacks

* and more!

I’d love to welcome you to my kidlit corner of the Internet. Support KidLit Love for $5 a month and get a little more bookish goodness along the way. Click the link below to join!

Keep scrolling to press play on that episode and to see other new books that have made their way into my reading life!

Stephanie

Book Birthdays and Other Book Reviews🎈🎁📖🎂📚🎉

Here are the newly released books that have made their way to me along with other books that I have read and reviewed:

🎉THE SHERLOCK SOCIETY: ART ATTACK by James Ponti (Amazon / Bookshop)

I have been WAITING for this one! The Sherlock Society goes undercover in the Miami street art scene to find an anonymous graffiti artist in the third book in the SHERLOCK SOCIETY series. Click here to listen to James talk about the first book that started the series and book 2: THE HURRICANE HEIST. It’s such a fantastic series!

🎉I AM A SPICY NUGGET by Loren Brantz (Amazon / Bookshop)

Oh, my goodness. Follow a spicy nugget as she releases fiery fury on all who dare approach (stuffed animals, beware!). But big emotions and even bigger personalities are no match for a little patience and a lot of love… the best remedies for soothing even your spiciest feelings. This book will make many of us feel seen. =)

🎉BLACK BOYS, I SEE YOU by Wade Hudson (Amazon / Bookshop)

This is an empowering picture book celebrating Black boys everywhere: acknowledging their strengths, recognizing the hurdles they face, and encouraging them to forge ahead with confidence. Interested in more books by Wade? Click here to listen to him talk about THE DAY MADEAR VOTED with Don Tate!

🎉SING ME A STORY edited by Aida Salazar (Amazon / Bookshop)

Edited by multi-award-winning author Aida Salazar, this anthology brings together a star-studded cast of Latine kidlit verse novelists for an unprecedented collection of short stories in verse about the power of music. This book is filled with lyrical beauty. Click here to listen to my conversation with Aida about her book: STREAM.

🎉QUETZAL’S LABYRINTH by Karla Arenas Valenti (Amazon / Bookshop)

Twelve-year old Diego discovers the Aztec gods are real, and he must journey into a deadly labyrinth to stop a vengeful power from destroying the world in this twisty, action-packed fantasy from the Pura Belpré Award–winning author of Lola. I can barely get out of my local maze at the pumpkin farm, but I loved reading about this adventure on the page. =)

🎉MILLIE MAGNUS IS NOT JEALOUS by Brittany Mazique (Amazon / Bookshop)

This is the third book in the hilarious and charming MILLIE MAGNUS chapter book series featuring exuberant and irresistible third-grader Millie Magnus. This time, readers will head to the Overlook Little Theatre where Millie is hoping to shine.

SISTERS ALONE by Shifa Saltagi Safadi

On this episode of the KidLit Love podcast, I’m talking with Shifa Saltagi Safadi about her newest novel-in-verse: SISTERS ALONE.

It’s a heart-stopping sisterhood, survival and the quiet strength it takes to keep going, even when the world feels like it’s falling apart. It had my heart and my whole-hearted admiration for these beautiful characters.

Come listen as we talk about the the power of books to change us and soften our hearts, the lyrical prose and careful formatting choices that envelope readers into the story and Shifa’s beautiful hope for readers to feel less alone as a result of this book. It’s one that will stay with me for a long while.

Here is the book featured in this episode. You’ll find links to my Amazon and Bookshop affiliate stores below. Thanks for your bookish support!

SISTERS ALONE by Shifa Saltagi Safadi (Amazon / Bookshop)

Here’s where you can find Shifa online:

Website: https://shifasafadi.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shifasaltagisafadi

I’d love to know what you think of this episode. Share your comments below!

KidLit love is multiplied when it’s shared! 🩷

Here are some free ways to support this newsletter and spread my love of children’s literature far and wide:

🩷 Like and comment on this post so we can connect!🔄 Restack and add your favorite nugget from the podcast.📷 Take a screenshot of your favorite part and text it to a kidlit friend.💌 Forward this email to a fellow kidlit colleague so they can join the book love too!⌨️ Refer a friend and earn prizes….including courses and coaching sessions with me!

Thanks for reading the KidLit Love newsletter! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work!