Picture Book Podcast

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Farmer Kim Goodling turned decades of sheep farming into her debut picture book, The Littlest Shepherd — based on the true story of a fragile lamb she nursed back to health. Kim talks with host Chris Marland about writing between farm chores, why she chose physical books over e-books, and how she's promoting the launch with hand-knit hats and wool blankets from her own flock.

Pre-order now, out mid-September.

🌐 grandviewfarmvt.com
📷 @vtgrandviewfarm 

@kimgoodling_illustrator

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What does a quiet girl, a beach, and a herd of well-meaning elephants have in common? A story that speaks to every child who's ever felt a little shy.

In this episode, Chris chats with Christine Devane, former teacher and debut author of Elephant Beach. Christine shares how her years in the classroom — and her own children's very different personalities — inspired her to write a book that validates shy kids while gently encouraging them to try something new.

They talk about the book's dual message for introverts and extroverts, the vibrant illustrations Christine helped shape, her lively classroom beach parties, and two exciting upcoming books — including a touching story about grief inspired by her teaching experiences.

You cna purchase your copy of Elephant Beach on Amazon.

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Not all bedtime stories are trying to do the same thing. In this episode, Chris explores the wonderful variety of picture books designed for that quiet moment before sleep — and why the "perfect" bedtime story might be different for every child, every evening.

Books mentioned in this episode:

• Goodnight Moon — Margaret Wise Brown
• Goodnight Everyone — Chris Haughton
• Peace at Last — Jill Murphy
• Sleep Tight, Disgusting Blob — Huw Aaron
• The Forest of Dreams — Meve Atilgan
• It's Time to Hush and Say Good Night — Chitra Soundar
• Good Night Already! — Jory John 

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In this episode, Chris sits down with  author Katie Scorah to talk about her debut picture book, The Ship's Cat — a beautifully illustrated, rhyming adventure following Bella, a little black cat who overcomes superstition and loneliness to find her place aboard a pirate ship.

Katie shares the heartwarming story behind the book — written for her three-year-old daughter and inspired by the real Bella, a black rescue cat — and explores the rich themes woven throughout: kindness, prejudice, empathy, belonging, and the importance of leading with a good heart.

The Ship's Cat is available from Waterstones, Amazon, bookshop.org, and your local bookshop or library.

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Starting school can feel exciting — and a little scary too! In this episode of  Picture Book Podcast, I’m sharing five picture books that are perfect for easing first-day jitters. From stories that spark giggles to tales of quiet courage, these books are ideal for helping children (and parents) step into school with confidence.

Books mentioned in this episode:

• The Koala Who Could by Rachel Bright & Jim Field
• School’s First Day of School by Adam Rex & Christian Robinson
• Once Upon an Ordinary School Day by Colin McNaughton & Satoshi Kitamura
• First Day Jitters by Julie Danneberg & Judy Love
• The Pigeon Has to Go to School! by Mo Willems

If your little one is starting school this year, these picture books can help turn butterflies into excitement — and make that first day a little brighter.

👉 Listen now, and let me know your favourite “first-day” picture book on Instagram @picturebookpodcast1 and @marlandreadingcorner or by email at [email protected]

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In this episode, Chris sits down with former teacher turned award-winning author and storyteller, Jude Lennon. From her early days in the classroom to the creation of her beloved storytelling mascot Lamby, Jude shares her inspiring journey into the world of children’s literature and beyond.

Chris and Jude dive into the stories behind her popular picture books, explore the themes of kindness, mindfulness, and adventure that run through her work, and offer an exclusive peek at what’s coming next — including her upcoming titles and a return to fiction for older readers.

Whether you're a fellow writer, an aspiring storyteller, or just love a good origin story, Jude's passion, warmth, and creativity will leave you feeling inspired.

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Chris chats with speech and language therapist Marie Robert to discuss bilingualism, dyslexia, phonic awareness and dyslexia. 

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Happy New Year! Chris starts the year off by revealing his top 10 picture books of 2024.

These books are:

1. The Dictionary Story by Oliver Jeffers & Sam Winston
2. The Search for Carmella by Chloe Savage
3. The Bridges by Tom Percival
4. The Big Bad Wolf Investigates Fairy Tales by Catherine Cawthorne
5. Grey by Laura Dockrill
6. Flower Block by Lanisha Butterfield
7. How to Hide. star by Oliver Jeffers
8. Let’s All Say Yes! By Nia Roberts 
9. I Follow the Fox by Rob Biddulph
10. The Girl at the Front of the Class by Onjali Q Rauf

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In this episode, Chris reflects on a year filled with reading. From exploring picture books on the podcast to helping older children develop their reading skills in the classroom, and sharing the joy of stories with his daughter, Chris dives into the lessons learned and moments that made this year special. Join him as he celebrates the power of reading in teaching, learning, and family life.

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After being absent fo over a month, Chris is thrilled to be back with a brand new episode.

In this week’s episode, Chris chats with author Mindy Burks who talks about her debut book ‘Santa’s Baby’, a story with a concept that is sure to intrigue many readers. As the title suggests, the book is about Santa’s baby daughter who learns how to live amongst the many elves in the North Pole environment and how to stay off the naughty list. Throughout the story, Santa’s baby learns how Christmas is a time where we give joy to those around us and not just expect to be given it.

Mindy talks about how she came up with this unique concept and how her collaboration with illustrator Kay Dawson helped present the North Pole like you have never seen it before.