Wonder World Book Cafe'

Inspired by a true story in the 1970s. A group of high school girls just wanted to play basketball, like the boys. There is no funding and no fans in the stands, no uniforms, no coach at first, and no bus for their away games. With plenty of determination, the "Lady Bears" show how a small group of young people can make a big difference.

Transcript here

In Whale Eyes, author James Robinson and illustrator Brian Rea collaborate to provide readers with an interactive experience--inviting them to experience how James’ "Whale Eyes" work. Robinson empowers readers to appreciate the impact of words, helps them confront the discomfort of recognizing disability, and ultimately fosters meaningful human connections.

A prime suspect for burning down the house of a long-time bully, Ezra find comfort in learning his Ojibwe ancestral traditions of hunting and trapping in the wilderness. There is plenty of action, mystery, and suspense to keep YA readers turning pages.

Transcript here

Discover a simple, special method to recommend books that requires NO time on your part while making a significant impact on readers' next book choices!

Transcript here

Spark Creativity Podcast interview with Betsy and Spark Creativity on Instagram

Current top pick for a novel in verse: Kareem Between by Shifa Saltagi Safadi podcast

It's 1913. Teen Matilda Young wonders if she's brave enough to join the many suffragists fighting for something so simple: women's right to vote in the U.S. The work is difficult, exhausting, and exhilarating. While we know the final outcome (ratification of the 19th Amendment in 1920), Matilda serves as a reminder: take action for what matters.

Transcript here

8th grader Ajay is navigating being the only Sri Lankan in his new community. He has numerous family rules to uphold, and now he's stolen a candy bar that makes him a millionaire.

He has to tell one lie after another in attempts to not disappoint his parents, deal with a bully, make friends, and possibly claim the life-changing prize money.

Transcript here

7th grader Vale is THE best athlete in her gym. After a devastating accident, Vale is determined to come back stronger than ever as she strives to realize her dream of being a pro international fencer.

Transcript here

Surrounded by her supportive family, ten-year old Cooper is growing up in 1963, a time marked by the Civil Rights Movement. She's dealing with issues close to home like a bully and racism plus tragic events in the U.S. like JFK's assassination and the bombing at a Black church in Alabama. Cooper's story resonates with the past and the present. 

On 13 year old Sage's birthday, her best friend was hit and killed by a speeding driver as she crossed the street. . . on her way to Sage's. Now, Sage is filled with grief and guilt. This emotionally resonant novel, written in verse, is an honest and raw telling of living with the rollercoaster of grief.

Transcript here

In this middle grade graphic memoir, Jay Jay has grown up with an incarcerated dad, and now he's home. Dad is a program developer and wants to use technology to connect kids with incarcerated parents. When stumped by a programming problem, he turns to his brilliant, math loving daughter, Jay Jay, for help.

Transcript here