On this episode of the Reading With Your Kids Podcast, host Jed Doherty welcomes two amazing middle grade authors who explore how stories can help kids find light, courage, and connection in a complicated world.

First, Jed talks with Emily Bain Murphy, author of the new middle grade fantasy "Light Seekers, A Kingdom of Shadows." Emily shares the inspiration behind her richly imagined world of Wildfell Hall, where darkness is growing stronger after an event called The Great Betrayal. We meet Finn, his sister Lydia, and best friend Adrian, three kids with few adults in their lives who are invited on a quest to find a legendary lake made of light. Emily discusses writing this series during the pandemic, her desire to help kids "seek the light" through themes of faith, beauty, hope, and kindness, and practical ways she encourages her own kids to unplug from negativity and intentionally look for beauty in everyday life. She and Jed also celebrate co‑reading, talking about how families can use books like Light Seekers to spark meaningful conversations at home.

Then Jed is joined by Aaron Starmer, author of the spooky, heartful middle grade novel "You Are Now Old Enough to Hear This." Aaron introduces Roman, a 12‑year‑old tasked with cleaning out his late grandfather's house, where he uncovers a jar of formaldehyde, a mysterious handwritten book, and the eerie family legend of the tow beast. Aaron talks about why creepy middle grade books appeal to kids, how family stories and secrets shape identity, and why he loves writing fiction that blends chills with emotional depth.