The Reader’s Heart Podcast

In this conversation, Jennifer chats with Ann Braden, an author who writes books that empower kids to find their voice and make a difference in the world. Ann shares her journey as a reader and writer, highlighting the books that had a profound impact on her life. She discusses the importance of recognizing our own voice and the power it holds. Ann also explores the themes in her books, such as facing tough topics and finding hope in difficult times. The conversation emphasizes the need for connection and belief in oneself and others. For more information about this episode, including detailed show notes and a discount code from Bookelicious, visit: librarygirl.net  Chapters: 00:00 Introduction  00:54 Anne's Reader's Heart 03:07 Discovering a Love for History 04:32 Finding the Confidence to Write 05:30 Using Voice to Change the World 07:19 Writing Books for Kids to Find Their Voice 10:26 Facing Bullying and Overcoming Challenges 13:06 Book Talk: Opinions and Opossums  14:46 The Impact of Anne's Books on Readers 16:47 The Importance of Art in Understanding Our Times 19:35 The Need for Connection and Belief 25:01 Finding Joy in the Darkness 28:28 The Darkness Turned Inside Out 29:27 Conclusion and Gratitude

Jennifer chats with author Erin Bow who shares a bit about her journey as a reader and writer, from her childhood love of books to her success as an author. She emphasizes the importance of reading widely and falling in love with reading as a child. Erin also shares her passion for trashy page-turning storytelling and the influence it has on her writing. But most of their conversation focuses on the role of children's literature in helping us to understand and navigate trauma. Erin discusses the inspiration behind Simon Sort of Says and why it was important to her that Simon's story be funny.  Show notes and other information related to this episode (including a discount code from Bookelicious) can be found here. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Reader's Heart 04:21 Childhood Reading and Influences 06:06 Trashy Page-Turning Storytelling 10:05 Expanding Genre and Writing Goals 11:57 Pseudonyms and Success 13:54 The Journey to Success 20:55 The Variety of Erin Bow's Books 26:09 Discussion of Simon Sort of Says 36:00 Upcoming Work and the Importance of Stories

In this episode, Jasmine Warga chats with Jennifer about the power of read alouds, using stories as conversation starters, and the importance of representation in literature. Jasmine shares her personal journey as a reader and writer, and how books helped her feel less alone. They also talk about Jasmine's latest book, A Rover's Story and her upcoming mystery novel set in an art museum: A Strange Thing Happened in Cherry Hall. The conversation highlights the impact of books on readers' hearts and the need for diverse and engaging stories for middle grade readers. Show notes and other information related to this episode (including a discount code from Bookelicious) can be found here. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Reader's Heart 03:30 The Power of Read Alouds 06:36 Books as Conversation Starters 08:30 Using Stories to Bridge Chasms 09:23 Writing for Middle Grade Readers 14:34 Book Talk: Rover, A Rover Story 25:34 Writing Mysteries for Middle Grade Readers 29:51 Upcoming Projects 33:08 Conclusion

In this episode, Torrey Maldonado chats with Jennifer about children's literature, his work and the magic of teaching middle school! They discuss the power of children's literature and how it can shape readers' hearts and help them navigate the world. Torrey shares his own experience as a reader and how he found storytelling through cinema and comics. He also talks about his teaching background and how he writes books for the students he teaches. Torrey's books are known for being short yet rich and robust, challenging the myth that shorter books lack depth. They discuss the impact of Torrey's books on students and how they inspire and engage reluctant readers. The conversation also touches on the importance of representation in books and the need for young readers to see themselves as both characters and creators in the stories they read. In this conversation, Torrey shares the impact his mother had on his love for reading and writing, and how she continues to inspire him. He reflects on his first reading and the emotional moment when his mother realized he was living her dream. Torrey shares his upcoming projects and the themes of his future books. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the power of empathy and the importance of connecting and understanding one another through literature.   Show notes and other information related to this episode (including a discount code from Bookelicious) can be found here. Chapters 00:00 Introduction 01:01 The Power of Children's Literature 07:31 Middle School Students at a Crossroads 09:51 The Impact of Torrey's Books on Students 13:07 The Attainable Richness of Torrey's Books 16:06 Recognition and Validation 21:42 Representation and Seeing Yourself in Books 22:39 Representation in Books 27:29 Torrey's First Reading 30:17 The Legacy of Torrey's Mother 32:53 What's Next for Torrey Maldonado 34:17 Review of 'Relit' 45:00 The Power of Empathy

Mike Curato joins Jennifer to discuss the power of children's literature to shape our hearts and navigate the world with compassion. They explore their own experiences as readers and artists, emphasizing the importance of personal storytelling and self-expression. They also discuss the impact of social media on creativity and self-perception. Mike shares his approach to school visits, focusing on his personal journey and the challenges he faced. Mike discusses his book Flamer'and the importance of creating stories that address issues faced by marginalized communities. He also shares his upcoming projects, including an adult graphic novel and a middle-grade graphic novel. Show notes and other information related to this episode (including a discount code from Bookelicious) can be found here. Chapters 00:00 The Power of Children's Literature 10:58 The Impact of Social Media 36:57 Upcoming Projects

In this episode, Ami Polonsky joins Jennifer to discuss the power of storytelling and the importance of accessible reading. They explore how being a teacher influences Ami's storytelling and how her books empower young readers to make a difference. They also discuss the relevance of stories like World Made of Glass in today's world and the need for diverse voices in literature. Ami shares her upcoming project, a companion book to World Made of Glass, and reflects on the challenges and importance of writing hopeful stories in difficult times.    Show notes and other information related to this episode (including a discount code from Bookelicious) can be found here.   Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Reader Identity 03:00 The Importance of Accessible Reading 08:00 The Influence of Teaching on Storytelling 13:00 World Made of Glass and the Power of Stories 19:00 Writing for Change and Empowering Kids 25:00 The Need for Stories in Challenging Times 29:00 Upcoming Projects and the Importance of Hope 35:44 The Journey of Writing a Book 36:14 The Power of Books 36:38 Upcoming Book Release 37:05 Enjoyable Conversation

In this episode, Chrystal D Giles joins Jennifer LaGarde to discuss the power of children's literature to shape readers' hearts and provide guidance in navigating the world. Chrystal shares her experiences as a young reader and how she now gravitates towards contemporary realistic fiction that tackles social and cultural topics. They also discuss Chrystal's book, Not An Easy Win, which follows the journey of a 12-year-old boy named Lawrence as he learns to play chess and navigates complex emotions and family dynamics. The conversation highlights the importance of representation and the impact of books in helping children understand and process their own experiences. They also explore the role of technology and the value of finding healthy alternatives, as well as the significance of strong grandparent characters in children's literature. Chrystal shares her upcoming projects and the joy she finds in school visits and connecting with young readers. Show notes and other information related to this episode (including a discount code from Bookelicious) can be found here. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Reader's Heart 03:02 Not An Easy Win 06:02 Representation and Shame 09:31 Technology and Healthy Alternatives 13:18 Grandma's Role 21:00 Future Projects 25:10 School Visits and Impact 27:31 Conclusion

In this conversation, Chris Baron chats with Jennifer about the power of children's literature in shaping readers' hearts and helping them navigate tough situations. Chris shares his own experiences as a reader, giving a shoutout to his 3rd grade teacher, and how books became a stable presence in his life. They also discuss the influence of comics on both their readers' hearts. Chris shares the inspiration behind his book The Gray and its themes of mental health, self-acceptance, and the role of technology. Chris talks about the importance of empathy and storytelling in connecting with young readers. He also shares his upcoming projects, including an anthology of passover stories for middle grade readers. Show notes and other information related to this episode (including a discount code from Bookelicious) can be found here.   Chapters: 00:00 Introduction and Roles as a Reader and Writer 04:23 The Power of Children's Literature 11:36 Discussion of The Gray 23:00 Themes in Chris Baron's Books 31:43 Upcoming Projects 34:32 Conclusion and Gratitude

In this conversation, Chris Barton joins Jennifer to chat about his reading habits, research process for nonfiction books, and the importance of balancing serious topics with joy in children's literature. They discuss the role of personal experiences in writing and the impact of books in helping children cope with tragedy. Chris shares his love for book dedications and the inspiration behind his webcast on the topic. They also touch on upcoming projects.   Show notes and other information related to this episode (including a discount code from Bookelicious) can be found here. Chapters Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Fan Moment 00:54 Connecting Story to a Reader's Heart 01:37 Chris Barton's Reading Habits 03:03 Setting Reading Challenges 04:27 The Research Process for Nonfiction Books 06:34 Balancing Serious Topics with Joy 08:34 Making Historical Events Relevant and Safe for Kids 09:48 Personal Experiences and Writing for Young Readers 11:39 Children's Literature as a Guide Through Life 13:11 The Influence of Personal Experiences on Writing 14:14 The Role of Reading in Coping with Tragedy 17:23 Meeting Favorite Authors 18:27 Recommendation for Jennifer Ziegler's Book 19:16 The Importance of Joyful Reading 20:41 The Power of Graphic Novels and Personal Reading Preferences 23:34 Nonfiction as a Joyful Pursuit 24:46 The Fascination with Book Dedications 29:51 Working on Multiple Books Simultaneously 31:43 Upcoming Books and Projects 34:46 The Book Dedications Podcast 38:19 Conclusion

In this episode, author/illustrator Corinna Luyken joins Jennifer to discuss her lifelong love for reading and the influence of her early library experiences. She shares how her passion for language and poetry led her to become a picture book author and illustrator. Corinna emphasizes the power of picture books in fostering connection and inclusivity, and the importance of asking better questions. She also discusses her book ABC and You and Me and the inspiration behind it. In this conversation, Corinna and Jennifer discuss the importance of movement in learning and how it can be incorporated into educational settings. They also explore the power of inclusive illustrations in children's books and the impact they can have on readers. Finally, they touch on Corinna's upcoming projects, including a book about a community of people who are very good at arguing and an ocean-themed book. Show notes and other information related to this episode (including a discount code from Bookelicious) can be found here. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Personal Connection 01:19 Early Love for Reading and Library Experiences 02:18 Influence of Language and Poetry 05:22 Connection Between Read Aloud Experiences and Becoming a Picture Book Author and Illustrator 08:49 The Power of Picture Books and the Golden Age of Picture Books 11:21 Themes of Connection and Inclusivity in Picture Books 15:29 The Importance of Connection and Asking Better Questions 20:36 The Book 'ABC and You and Me' 27:50 The Inspiration Behind 'ABC and You and Me' 32:42 The Importance of Movement in Learning 36:16 Creating a More Inclusive World Through Books 37:40 Upcoming Projects

In this conversation, Saadia Faruqi joins Jennifer to chat abouther journey as a reader and writer, as well as the importance of representation in children's literature. They also delve into Saadia's books, including Yusuf Azeem Is Not a Hero and Saving Sunshine, and the inspiration behind them. Saadia shares her experiences as a writer and the impact she hopes to make with her stories. The conversation highlights the need for diverse voices and perspectives in literature and the power of storytelling to create understanding and empathy. Show notes and other information related to this episode (including a discount code from Bookelicioius) can be found here. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Building Relationships Online   02:08 Saadia's Journey as a Reader   03:28 Saadia's Journey as a Writer   05:44 Writing Books for Underrepresented Readers   11:06 Yusuf Azim Is Not a Hero   18:07 Saving Sunshine and Writing a Graphic Novel   24:14 Upcoming Books and Projects   26:19 Importance of Saadia's Work  

In this conversation, Jennifer chats with Pura Belpré honor winning poet Jasminne Mendez, They discuss Jasminne's reader's heart and the power of children's literature. They also delve into the inclusion of chronic illness in Aniana del Mar Jumps In and the importance of poetry in conveying the story. Jasminne talks about the power of storytelling, and her future projects including a YA novel in verse centered around theater and activism.  Show notes and other information related to this episode (including a discount code from Bookelicioius) can be found here. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Pura Belpré Win 03:18 Jasminne's Reader's Heart 07:20 Reading with Her Daughter 11:49 The Power of Children's Literature 15:17 Inclusion of Chronic Illness in 'Anayana Del Mar Jumps In' 20:21 The Shame and Complexity of Chronic Illness 25:19 The Importance of Poetry in 'Anayana Del Mar Jumps In' 29:02 Crafting the Novel in Verse 30:41 Upcoming Projects 32:14 Writing and Publishing Process 34:22 The Power of Storytelling 35:23 Future Projects

This week, Lisa Fipps joins Jennifer to discuss the power of children's literature and its ability to shape hearts and offer survival tools for readers. Lisa shares her early reading experiences and how books allowed her to escape her challenging childhood. They discuss Lisa's book And Then, BOOM! and how it reflects her own experiences of poverty, abandonment, and hunger. They also explore the importance of representation in children's literature and the need for books that address topics like dementia. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the importance of asking for help and giving back. Show notes and other information related to this episode (including a discount code from Bookelicioius) can be found here. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Friendship 02:04 The Power of Children's Literature 02:23 Lisa's Early Reading Experiences 03:20 The Impact of a Book on Lisa's Childhood 04:16 Lisa's Desire to Explore the World 05:12 Using Books to Escape 07:00 Lisa's Childhood Hiding Spots 08:26 Finding Hope in Books 09:52 Authors Lisa Admires 10:44 Lisa's Writing Process 12:49 Writing for One Person 13:41 Lisa's Book 'And Then Boom' 19:10 Reflecting Personal Experiences in And Then, BOOM! 23:24 The Importance of Representation in Children's Literature 24:17 Recognizing the Commonality of Childhood Experiences 29:10 The Impact of Poverty on Children 32:42 The Importance of Asking for Help and Giving 36:48 Lisa's Future Projects 39:26 Conclusion and Book Recommendations  

Sarah Everett joins Jennifer to discuss her book The Probability of Everything and the power of books to connect readers. She shares her own experiences as a reader and the impact of books like Charlotte's Web on her as a reader and a writer. The importance of read-alouds and tackling tough topics in children's literature are also explored. Sarah talks about the process of writing and developing characters, as well as the mystery element in her book. She discusses reader reactions and the hope that her books spark important conversations.  Sarah concludes by sharing details about her upcoming book. Show notes and other information related to this episode can be found here. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 01:48 The Power of Books to Connect 03:36 The Impact of Charlotte's Web 04:56 The Importance of Read-Alouds 06:22 Tackling Tough Topics in Children's Literature 07:44 Writing About Grief and Difficult Emotions 10:23 The Process of Writing and Developing Characters 12:54 The Mystery Element in 'The Probability of Everything' 14:59 Reader Reactions and Feedback 17:33 Using Children's Literature to Spark Conversations 19:42 The Importance of Supportive Secondary Characters 22:43 Finding Light in Darkness 26:04 Upcoming Book and Conclusion

In this episode of The Reader's Heart, Jennifer chat's with award winning author Kyle Lukoff. They discuss various topics, including the importance of empathy in children's literature, the role of reading in shaping a reader's heart, the process of writing and revision, and the theme of vegetables in Lukoff's books. Lukoff shares his perspective on transphobia and why he chooses not to include it in his characters' journeys. The conversation highlights the power of storytelling to create safe spaces and foster understanding. Takeaways Reading plays a significant role in shaping a reader's heart and informing how they navigate the world. The process of writing involves constant revision Transphobia is seen as deeply boring by Kyle Lukoff, and he chooses not to include it in his characters' journeys. Children's literature has the power to create safe spaces and provide examples of how the world should be. In the end, while children's literature is a powerful too, ultimately, we need public services and legislation to protect kids from systems and individuals who cause harm. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Transphobia 02:22 Reader's Heart and Reading Journey 04:25 Writing and Revision 06:45 Sharing Work and Imposter Syndrome 08:05 Creating Safe Spaces in Books 14:17 Themes of Vegetables and Social Constructs 18:29 Empathy in Children's Literature 25:30 The Role of Children's Literature in Challenging Times 33:03 Fruit and Vegetable Theme 34:05 Conclusion

In this conversation, Traci Sorell joins Jennifer to discuss her passion for storytelling and the importance of representation in literature. She emphasizes the need for diverse stories that reflect the experiences of Native people and dispel stereotypes. Traci also shares her writing process and the significance of incorporating Cherokee language and culture in her books. She encourages readers to connect with one another through stories and use their gifts and abilities to foster understanding and empathy. More information about this episode, including a discount code for purchasing Traci's books through Bookelicious, can be found at librarygirl.net Takeaways Representation in literature is crucial for marginalized communities, as it allows readers to see themselves and their experiences reflected in stories. Incorporating diverse perspectives and cultures in books helps dispel stereotypes and fosters empathy and understanding. The writing process varies for each author, but it often involves considering the structure, format, and through line of the story. Seeking feedback from critique groups, cultural experts, and language translators can enhance the authenticity and accuracy of storytelling. Language reclamation and preservation are essential for Native communities, and publishing books in native languages helps promote cultural identity and understanding. Storytelling has the power to connect people, bridge gaps, and promote empathy, making it a vital tool for building a more inclusive and compassionate society. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Fan Appreciation 01:25 The Reader's Heart 07:06 The Writing Process 12:35 Critique Groups and Feedback 15:51 Cherokee Language Books 26:23 Representation and Dispelling Stereotypes 36:43 Upcoming Projects 46:17 The Power of Storytelling

In this conversation, Jennifer LaGarde and John Schu discuss various topics related to reading, writing, and the power of connection. They explore John's journey as a reader and how he connects with characters and stories. They also delve into the importance of picture books and the role of poetry in John's writing. The conversation then shifts to John's latest book, Louder Than Hunger, a novel in verse that tackles the topic of eating disorders. Throughout the conversation, the theme of connection emerges as a central thread, highlighting the transformative power of stories. In this conversation, Jennifer LaGarde and John Schu discuss movies and musicals, the power of storytelling, and the importance of tossing away rules and connecting through story. More information about this episode, including a discount code for purchasing John's books through Bookelicious, can be found at librarygirl.net Takeaways The connection between readers and stories is a powerful force that shapes our identities and perspectives. Picture books can serve as a gateway to reading and can be a powerful tool for connecting with young readers. Poetry plays a significant role in John's writing, allowing him to explore emotions and connect with readers on a deeper level. Louder Than Hunger addresses the topic of eating disorders and the importance of seeking help and support. Connection is a recurring theme in John's work, emphasizing the power of stories to bring people together and provide hope and healing. John Schu as the President of the Kate DiCamillo Fan Club Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Reader's Heart 11:22 John as a Reader 16:07 Kate DiCamillo 18:09 Connection in Picture Books 21:21 Louder Than Hunger 26:30 The Importance of Connection 32:15 Favorite Movies and Musicals 33:11 The Power of Storytelling 33:51 Tossing Away Rules and Connecting Through Story