The Children's Book Review: Growing Readers Podcast

In this episode of The Growing Readers Podcast, host Bianca Schulze sits down with beloved author Kate DiCamillo to discuss her latest works, including the early reader trilogy beginning with Orris and Timble: The Beginning and the second book in The Norendy Tales, The Hotel Balzaar. Kate shares her creative process, inspirations, and reflections on storytelling, offering insight into the themes and craft behind her emotionally resonant books.

Listeners will gain insight into:

This episode is a must-listen for fans of Kate DiCamillo's work, aspiring writers, and anyone interested in children's literature and the craft of storytelling.

Join us for an inspiring conversation about finding light in stories, the power of friendship, and the enduring impact of children's literature.

Transcription: You can read the transcription on ⁠⁠The Children's Book Review.

Order Copies:Orris and Timble: The Beginning on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Amazon⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Bookshop.org⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

Resources:

Book Spotlight:

Be sure to embark on a magical adventure to celebrate the release of Kelcie Murphy and the Race for the Reaper’s Key, the thrilling final installment in the Academy for the Unbreakable Arts series by Erika Lewis! For more information, visit https://www.erikalewis.com/.

In this episode of The Growing Readers Podcast, host Bianca Schulze sits down with acclaimed author John Schu to discuss his powerful novel in verse, Louder Than Hunger. John shares his deeply personal journey of transforming his own experiences with anorexia nervosa, depression, and anxiety into Jake's story, offering insight into the creative process behind this emotionally charged book.

Listeners will gain insight into:

John also gives a behind-the-scenes look at his writing process, including his use of post-it note mantras and the challenge of deciding which personal experiences to include or fictionalize. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in middle-grade literature, mental health representation in books, or the healing power of storytelling.

Join us for an inspiring conversation about hope, resilience, and the transformative power of sharing our stories.

Transcription: You can read the transcription on ⁠The Children's Book Review⁠.

International OCD Foundation: https://kids.iocdf.org

National Alliance for Eating Disorders: https://www.allianceforeatingdisorders.com/

National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders: https://anad.org/

In this episode of The Growing Readers Podcast, host Bianca Schulze sits down with award-winning children's author and illustrator Loren Long to discuss his latest book, The Yellow Bus. Loren shares his unique approach to crafting this touching story, including his inspiration from a real abandoned bus, his process of creating a 3D model for illustration reference, and his dedication to handcrafted artwork using charcoal and acrylic paint.

Listeners will gain insight into:

Loren also gives a behind-the-scenes look at his artistic process, including the unexpected inclusion of his dog's hair in the artwork and his decision to use a primarily black-and-white palette to make the yellow bus stand out. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in children's literature, illustration techniques, or the art of storytelling.

Join us for an inspiring conversation about creating emotionally resonant picture books and the power of finding joy in unexpected places.

Transcription: You can read the transcription on The Children's Book Review.

In this episode of The Growing Readers podcast, host Bianca Schulze sits down with award-winning children's author Beth Anderson to discuss her latest book, Thomas Jefferson's Battle for Science: Bias, Truth, and a Mighty Moose. Beth shares her unique approach to crafting engaging nonfiction, including her process of "mining for the heart of the story" and her dedication to thorough research and meticulous revision.

Listeners will gain insight into:

Beth also gives a sneak peek into her upcoming titles, including stories about America's first female detective and a teenage sculptor who created an iconic statue of Abraham Lincoln. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in children's literature, history, or the art of storytelling.

Join us for an inspiring conversation about widening children's worlds through compelling nonfiction and the power of connecting readers to the past.

Transcription: You can read the transcription on The Children's Book Review (coming soon).

Order Copies: Thomas Jefferson's Battle for Science: Bias, Truth, and a Mighty Moose on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Amazon⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Bookshop.org⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

Resources:

Visit Beth Anderson online: https://bethandersonwriter.com/

Join us for an enlightening conversation with Nyasha Williams and Kenda Bell-Spruill, co-authors of Saturday Magic: A Hoodoo Story (Running Press Kids). This mother-in-love and daughter-in-love duo discuss their collaboration on this groundbreaking picture book that introduces young readers to African diasporic spiritual practices and ancestral connections.

Discover the inspiration behind their story, the importance of representation in children's literature, and how Saturday Magic aims to foster pride in cultural heritage. The authors share personal insights into their creative process, the significance of dreams in African American culture, and their hopes for expanding diverse narratives in children's media.

This episode offers a deep dive into the power of intergenerational storytelling and the magic of connecting with one's ancestors, providing valuable perspectives for parents, educators, and anyone interested in diverse children's literature.

Transcription: You can read the transcription on The Children's Book Review.

Order Copies: Saturday Magic on ⁠⁠⁠⁠Amazon⁠⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠⁠Bookshop.org⁠⁠⁠⁠.

Resources:

Nyasha Williams and Kenda Bell-Spruill Talk About:

Award-winning author Matt de la Peña discusses his new picture book, The Perfect Place, exploring themes of class, self-acceptance, and the meaning of home.

Matt shares personal inspirations, reads from the book, and reflects on how the story resonates with readers of all ages. Join us for an insightful conversation about finding beauty in imperfection and the power of children's literature to shape perspectives on family, success, and belonging.

Transcription: You can read the transcription on The Children's Book Review.

Order Copies: The Perfect Place on ⁠⁠⁠Amazon⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠Bookshop.org⁠⁠⁠. El lugar perfecto (Spanish Edition) on Amazon and Bookshop.org.

Resources: You can visit Matt at mattdelapena.com or follow him on Twitter and Instagram @mattdelapena.

Matt de la Peña Talks About:

Join us for a flavorful conversation with New York Times food reporter Priya Krishna as she dishes on her new cookbook, Priya's Kitchen Adventures: A Cookbook for Kids.

Discover how Priya's globe-trotting childhood inspired a passion for diverse cuisines, and learn why exposing children to a world of flavors is about more than just good eating. From easy udon noodles to kid-approved profiteroles, Priya shares how her recipes aim to cultivate curiosity, empathy, and a love for culinary diversity in young cooks. This episode is a must-listen for parents, foodies, and anyone interested in raising the next generation of open-minded eaters.

Transcription: You can read the transcription on The Children's Book Review.

Order Copies: Priya's Kitchen Adventures: A Cookbook for Kids on ⁠⁠Amazon⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠Bookshop.org⁠⁠.

Indian-Ish: Recipes and Antics from a Modern American Family on Amazon

Resources: Visit her online at https://www.priyakrishna.me/

Find her NYTs articles here: https://www.nytimes.com/by/priya-krishna

Priya Krishna Talks About:

In this inspiring episode, award-winning children's author Polly Holyoke joins us to discuss her enchanting middle-grade fantasy series, Skyriders.

Polly shares her insights on the power of storytelling to ignite imaginations and empower young readers to believe in their ability to make a difference. From her creative process in building immersive fantasy worlds to her unwavering commitment to crafting characters that resonate with kids, Polly offers a glimpse into the magic behind her beloved books. She also delves into the importance of infusing stories with meaningful themes, such as empathy, resilience, and the courage to effect change, while never losing sight of the joy and excitement that keeps young readers turning the pages.

Whether you're a fan of the Skyriders series, an aspiring writer, or simply someone who believes in the transformative power of children's literature, this episode will leave you inspired and motivated to embrace the magic of storytelling in your own life. Join us for a captivating conversation with Polly Holyoke, and discover how books can truly change the world, one young reader at a time.

Transcription: You can read the transcription on The Children's Book Review.

Order Copies: The Skyriders series on ⁠Amazon⁠ and ⁠Bookshop.org⁠.

Resources: Visit her online at pollyholyoke.com

Polly Hollyoke Talks About:

In this episode of The Growing Readers Podcast, host Bianca Schulze and author Jeanne Walker Harvey dive into the inspiring story of Else Bostelmann, the artist who courageously painted the wonders of the deep sea in the 1930s.

Harvey shares insights from her new picture book biography Elsae B. In the Sea: The Woman Who Painted the Wonders of the Deep, which explores Bostelmann's groundbreaking work at the intersection of art and science. This episode provides a fascinating look at a pioneering female artist whose work sparked wonder and advanced marine science, offering valuable lessons about creativity, conservation, and the power of pursuing your dreams.

Bostelman fearlessly descended into the ocean depths in a copper diving helmet to paint the magnificent marine life that scientist William Beebe was discovering on his expeditions. Her stunning artwork, published in National Geographic, brought the strange beauty of the deep sea to the public eye for the first time.

Harvey discusses her meticulous research process, the challenges of uncovering details about Bostelmann's life, and how she collaborated with illustrator Melodie Stacey to vividly capture the undersea world on the page. She also shares her hopes that Bostelmann's story will inspire young readers to follow their curiosity, appreciate the natural world, and find the courage to pursue their own adventures and passions.

Transcription: You can read the transcription on The Children's Book Review.

Order Copies: Else B. In the Sea: The Woman Who Painted the Wonders of the Deep on Amazon and Bookshop.org.

Resources: Find Jeanne Walker Harvey and her books at jeanneharvey.com.

Jeanne Walker Harvey Talks About:

In this episode of The Growing Readers Podcast, host Bianca Schulze and sexuality educator Dorian Solot discuss Solot's new Learning About Bodies children's books.

Solot shares insights on providing kids with accurate, age-appropriate information about their bodies and the challenges of creating sensitive content. The books cover topics like proper terminology and consent, with artwork by Tyler Feder that is engaging, inclusive, and anatomically correct.

Solot offers tips for parents to approach these conversations and become "askable parents." This episode provides valuable perspective on empowering kids with knowledge and body autonomy.

Content note: Contains frank discussions about genitalia and reproduction. Parents may wish to preview before listening with children.

Transcription:

⁠You can read the ⁠transcription on ⁠The Children's Book Review (coming soon)⁠⁠.

Order Copies:

All About Vulvas and Vaginas on ⁠⁠⁠⁠Amazon⁠⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠⁠Bookshop.org⁠⁠⁠⁠.

All About Penises on Amazon⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠Bookshop.org⁠⁠.

Resources:

Find Dorian Solot on www.learningaboutbodies.com and @learningaboutbodies on Instagram

Dorian Solot Talks About: