Kidlit Love: Conversations with Picture Book and Middle Grade Authors

Happy Monday!There’s something magic about reading. We can get lost inside another world without ever leaving our home. We can escape to another time and location, connect with new friends, learn new information and feel seen by the page all within a single book.This week, I’m chatting with Philip Stead about his whimsical middle grade novel that gives readers permission to sink in and enjoy themselves, not matter how old we are. Keep scrolling to find out more about the author, the book and the delightful conversation inside the episode.Happy Reading!StephanieBook Birthdays and Other Book Reviews🎈🎁📖🎂📚🎉Here are the newly released books that have made their way to me along with other books that I have read and reviewed:🎉AMAZING SHARK by Michael Stavaric and illustrated by Michele Ganser (Amazon / Bookshop)Oh, goodness. This book is amazing. =) It has everything you’ve ever wanted to know about sharks….and much more. The cover is gorgeous and shimmering and the black and white illustrations are exquisite. Filled with facts, fun quizzes and more, this book will quench your curiosity for shark knowledge. Plus, if you like this one, there are more in the series!🎉JUST ONE OAK by Maria Gianferrari and illustrated by Diana Sudyka (Amazon / Bookshop)This is truly one of the most gorgeous books I’ve read that instantly calmed my nervous system and brought me back to nature, to childhood and to ease and appreciation for the world around me. In it, readers will explore an oak tree, from its leafy crown to its roots underground, and learn all the amazing ways it supports the animals, plants, and habitat where it lives. From the incredible illustrations to the unique font and fact-filled end notes, this book will capture you, too. 🎉MIXED FEELINGS by Sara Amini & Shadia Amin (Amazon / Bookshop)This is Sara’s semi-autobiographical graphic novel for middle grade readers about navigating life as a mixed-race girl. Hilarious and heartfelt, with family, friendship, and fuzz all at the forefront, this laugh-out-loud and painfully relatable middle-school memoir is sure to delight. 🎉WE ALL LOVE by Julie Flett (Amazon / Bookshop)This month, I’m looking at my life and daily actions purposefully through the lens of love and this picture book is acting as a beautiful guide. It features poetic text, beautiful illustrations, and incorporates Cree words, highlighting the interconnectedness of all living things through acts of protection, guidance, and affection, making it a warm and affirming read-aloud. It’s a warm hug. 🎉LILIBET MAKES A FRIEND by Kersten Hamilton and illustrated by Shanda McCloskey (Amazon / Bookshop)This is an adorable picture book about a young girl who has tools, a lab, and a notebook along with a host of imaginary friends, but desperately wants a real one. So she plans a new project, REAL FRIEND 1.0 and finds that real friends can be found in the most unlikely places. This illustrations are delightful!🎉SOLVE YOUR OWN MYSTERY: THE MONSTER MAKER by Gareth P. Jones (Amazon / Bookshop)I have fond memories of the Build Your Own Adventure series of my youth and this series brings we right back! Readers will travel to Haventry, a town where the ordinary and extraordinary collide! With ghosts, werewolves, and zombies living side by side, trouble is always brewing. And when a fiendish crime is committed, YOU are the detective in charge of the case. It’s reading magic at its best.🎉HELLO BEAUTIFUL by Traci N. Todd and illustrated by Loveis Wise (Amazon / Bookshop)This book is stunning. It’s an inspirational love letter from caregiver to a child and reminds children that they should take up space, follow their own unique paths, and find humanity in everyone around them and, most importantly, in themselves…because that is beautiful. We all need this reminder. On this episode of the KidLit Love podcast, I’m talking with Philip Stead about his middle grade debut novel: A POTION, A POWDER, A LITTLE BIT OF MAGIC OR LIKE LIGHTNING IN AN UMBRELLA STORM.It’s a middle grade story written completely out of order that’s full of whimsy and heart and will for sure make you laugh out loud and learn a thing or two…or 24. It’s delightful in the most magical way.Come listen as we talk about the passage in the book that started it all, the delightful structure of the book and why it came to be and his hopes for the book to spark reading ownership and delight to remember. Plus, we talk about his thoughts on the current status of picture books and why all adult books should have illustrations, too. You won’t want to miss this episode!Here is the book featured in this episode. You’ll find links to my Amazon and Bookshop affiliate stores below. Thanks for your bookish support!A POTION, A POWDER, A LITTLE BIT OF MAGIC OR LIKE LIGHTNING IN AN UMBRELLA STORM by Philip Stead (Amazon / Bookshop)Here’s where you can find Phil online:Website: https://www.numberfivebus.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/number5busI’d love to know what you think of this episode. Share your comments below!KidLit love is multiplied when it’s shared! 🩷Here are some free ways to support this newsletter and spread my love of chilren’’s literature far and wide:🩷 Like and comment on this post so we can connect!🔄 Restack and add your favorite nugget from the podcast.📷 Take a screenshot of your favorite part and text it to a kidlit friend.💌 Forward this email to a fellow kidlit colleague so they can join the book love too!⌨️ Refer a friend and earn prizes….including courses and coaching sessions with me!Thanks for reading the KidLit Love newsletter! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kidlitlove.substack.com

On this episode of the KidLit Love podcast, I’m talking with Lauren H. Kerstein about her newest picture book: HOPE RODE.This picture book tells the true story of Kentucky’s packhorse librarians: the extraordinary woman who rode on horseback through the Appalachian mountains during the Great Depression to deliver books to communities that had none. It went right to my book-loving heart and it will to yours, too.Come listen as we talk about the adult fiction book that inspired the book, the lyrical language and stunning illustrations inside, the back matter that will quench your curiosity to know more and the writing tip that I’m totally stealing. =)Here is the book featured in this episode. You’ll find links to my Amazon and Bookshop affiliate stores below. Thanks for your bookish support!HOPE RODE by Lauren H. Kerstein (Amazon / Bookshop)Here’s where you can find Lauren online:Website: https://laurenkerstein.net/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/laurenkerstein/I’d love to know what you think of this episode. Share your comments below!KidLit love is multiplied when it’s shared! 🩷Here are some free ways to support this newsletter and spread my love of children’’s literature far and wide:🩷 Like and comment on this post so we can connect!🔄 Restack and add your favorite nugget from the podcast.📷 Take a screenshot of your favorite part and text it to a kidlit friend.💌 Forward this email to a fellow kidlit colleague so they can join the book love too!⌨️ Refer a friend and earn prizes….including courses and coaching sessions with me!Thanks for reading the KidLit Love newsletter! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kidlitlove.substack.com

On this episode of the KidLit Love podcast, I’m talking with Rebecca Morrison about her debut middle grade novel: THE BLUE DRESS.In this book, an Iranian American girl navigates complicated relationships with her mother, her best friend and her body image. This novel is both unflinching and uplifting and ideal for readers of all ages, especially those who need a reminder that they are enough just as they are.Come listen as we talk about the evolution the book made from an adult memoir to a middle grade novel, the complex relationships, especially between mothers and daughters, on the page and the layers of hope and personal growth that remind us that there’s always room to learn and change.Here is the book featured in this episode. You’ll find links to my Amazon and Bookshop affiliate stores below. Thanks for your bookish support!THE BLUE DRESS by Rebecca Morrison (Amazon / Bookshop)Here’s where you can find Rebecca online:Website: https://www.rebeccakmorrison.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rebeccamorrisonwriter/I’d love to know what you think of this episode. Share your comments below!Book Birthdays and Other Book Reviews🎈🎁📖🎂📚🎉Here are the newly released books that have made their way to me along with other books that I have read and reviewed:🎉FAKE SKATING by Lynn Painter (Amazon / Bookshop)If I were to record another YA episode on the podcast, I’d chat about this one. It’s a fun romantic comedy about childhood sweethearts Dani and Alec who fake a relationship in their hockey-obsessed hometown to help each other out, which you might guess leads to catching feelings and maybe the uncovering of family secret.🎉LITTLE MONSTERS by Maire Roche (Amazon / Bookshop)This is a modern supernatural middle grade retelling of the beloved classic LITTLE WOMEN. The March sisters have a monstrous secret Meg will do anything to protect, especially with another beast lurking in the woods threatening to expose them. This is for all the LITTLE WOMEN fans out there!🎉OLIVIA GRAY WILL NOT FADE AWAY by Ciera Burch (Amazon / Bookshop)This is a middle-grade speculative novel about a middle schooler who feels invisible, literally and figuratively, as she navigates her asexual identity and the social pressures of seventh grade, including a viral moment after rejecting the most popular boy at school.🎉FROM THE FIELDS TO THE FIGHT by Angela Quezada Padron (Amazon / Bookshop)This is a a STUNNING picture book biography about Latina labor activist Jessica Govea Thorbourne, who started picking crops at age four and later joined Cesar Chavez and Dolores Huerta in the United Farm Workers movement. It shows how one person can create change and that change lives in each of us. KidLit love is multiplied when it’s shared! 🩷Here are some free ways to support this newsletter and spread my love of chilren’’s literature far and wide:🩷 Like and comment on this post so we can connect!🔄 Restack and add your favorite nugget from the podcast.📷 Take a screenshot of your favorite part and text it to a kidlit friend.💌 Forward this email to a fellow kidlit colleague so they can join the book love too!⌨️ Refer a friend and earn prizes….including courses and coaching sessions with me!Thanks for reading the KidLit Love newsletter! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kidlitlove.substack.com

On this episode of the KidLit Love podcast, I’m talking withJasmine Warga about her newest middle grade novel: THE UNLIKELY TALE OF CHASE AND FINNEGAN.This middle grade novel is inspired by true stories from zoos across the country and is about how the power of friendship can transcend anything, even species. It’s endearing, it’s heart-warming and it’s everything we love to see in a middle grade novel. I hugged it when I turned the final page. =)Come listen as we talk about the personal inspiration behind the book, how Jasmine felt getting into the different minds of bodies of her characters and her hopes for readers to understand they don’t have to be perfect to be worthy of love. It’s a beautiful conversation.Here is the book featured in this episode. You’ll find links to my Amazon and Bookshop affiliate stores below. Thanks for your bookish support!THE UNLIKELY TALE OF CHASE AND FINNEGAN by Jasmine Warga (Amazon / Bookshop)Here’s where you can find Jasmine online:Website: https://jasminewarga.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jasminewargabooksI’d love to know what you think of this episode. Share your comments below!Here are the newly released books that have made their way to me along with other books that I have read and reviewed:🎉YOU ARE NOW OLD ENOUGH TO HEAR THIS by Aaron Starmer (Amazon / Bookshop)This is the newest middle grade speculative novel from critically acclaimed author Aaron Starmer that unravels the twisted threads of one family’s peculiar narrative.🎉Books Good Enough for You: The Storied Life of Ursula Nordstrom, Editor of Extraordinary Children’s Books by Nancy Hudgins (Amazon / Bookshop)This is a celebration of the life and work of Ursula Norstrom—the groundbreaking editor of classic children’s books like Charlotte’s Web and Where the Wild Things Are—and a powerful defense of a child’s right to read. It’s bookish joy!KidLit love is multiplied when it’s shared! 🩷Here are some free ways to support this newsletter and spread my love of chilren’’s literature far and wide:🩷 Like and comment on this post so we can connect!🔄 Restack and add your favorite nugget from the podcast.📷 Take a screenshot of your favorite part and text it to a kidlit friend.💌 Forward this email to a fellow kidlit colleague so they can join the book love too!⌨️ Refer a friend and earn prizes….including courses and coaching sessions with me!Thanks for reading the KidLit Love newsletter! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kidlitlove.substack.com

On this episode of the KidLit Love podcast, I’m talking with Ellen Cochrane about her newest release: FOLLOW THE WATER.This book tells the true story of a girl who fell out of a plane over the Amazon and walked out of the jungle eleven days later. It’s a powerful, true story about survival against all odds and is sure to be an inspiration to all readers.Come listen as we talk about how a journal entry from her childhood sparked the idea for this book, how her love of words and science combine to tell this amazing survival story and how she hopes this book will help all readers move through the challenges in their lives, no matter what they are.Here is the book featured in this episode. You’ll find links to my Amazon and Bookshop affiliate stores below. Thanks for your bookish support!FOLLOW THE WATER by Ellen Cochrane (Amazon / Bookshop)Here’s where you can find Ellen online:Website: https://ellencochrane.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ellenmcochrane/I’d love to know what you think of this episode. Share your comments below!KidLit love is multiplied when it’s shared! 🩷Here are some free ways to support this newsletter and spread my love of chilren’’s literature far and wide:🩷 Like and comment on this post so we can connect!🔄 Restack and add your favorite nugget from the podcast.📷 Take a screenshot of your favorite part and text it to a kidlit friend.💌 Forward this email to a fellow kidlit colleague so they can join the book love too!⌨️ Refer a friend and earn prizes….including courses and coaching sessions with me!Thanks for reading the KidLit Love newsletter! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kidlitlove.substack.com

On this episode of the KidLit Love podcast, I’m talking with Ainissa Ramirez about her new picture book: SPARK: Jim West’s Electrifying Adventures in Creating the Microphone.This picture book is the first release in the new Black Innovators Series and showcases the incredible contributions of Jim West, the man who invented the microphone.Come listen as we talk about how Ainissa found her way to children’s literature, the steep learning curve of writing for children that paid off, the Easter eggs you’ll find inside the illustrations of the book and her heartfelt hopes for readers.You’ll find the show notes for the episode with links to all of the books and resources mentioned right here: https://www.alitlife.com/2026/03/19/spark-jim-wests-electrifying-adventures-in-creating-the-microphone-by-ainissa-ramirez/Join me inside my Facebook community for bookish people! There, we talk about all things books and reading and writing and notebooking, too! You'll get updates for this podcast, along with my other Get Lit(erate). podcast and build your literate community for adult and children's literature: https://www.facebook.com/groups/getliterateIf you’d like to support the podcast, consider purchasing some KidLit Love merchandise from my Zazzle store: https://www.zazzle.com/store/alitlife All earnings are funneled right back into the podcast expenses and maintenance fees. Thanks for your support!Follow Stephanie:Website: http://www.alitlife.com/   Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/AffinitoLitInstagram: http://www.instagram.com/AffinitoLitTwitter: http://www.twitter.com/AffinitoLit This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kidlitlove.substack.com

On this episode of the KidLit Love podcast, I’m talking with Michelle Lee about her newest middle grade novel: THE MAGIC OF SOMEDAY SOON.This is a hopeful middle grade novel overflowing with light, love and adventure as two girls find the extraordinary joys of every day. Can the two of them team up to find the family and friendship they’ve always wanted? Zoe and Teddie will live in my reading heart forever. Come listen as we talk about Michelle’s love of words that started her writing career, the original format of this book that has since changed, the real life giant sculptures that acted as inspiration for the book and the honorary great grandmother that you’ll want to adopt for yourself. You’ll find the show notes for the episode with links to all of the books and resources mentioned right here: https://www.alitlife.com/2026/03/16/light-love-adventure-the-magic-of-someday-soon-by-michelle-lee/Join me inside my Facebook community for bookish people! There, we talk about all things books and reading and writing and notebooking, too! You'll get updates for this podcast, along with my other Get Lit(erate). podcast and build your literate community for adult and children's literature: https://www.facebook.com/groups/getliterateIf you’d like to support the podcast, consider purchasing some KidLit Love merchandise from my Zazzle store: https://www.zazzle.com/store/alitlife All earnings are funneled right back into the podcast expenses and maintenance fees. Thanks for your support!Follow Stephanie:Website: http://www.alitlife.com/   Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/AffinitoLitInstagram: http://www.instagram.com/AffinitoLitTwitter: http://www.twitter.com/AffinitoLit This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kidlitlove.substack.com

On this episode of the KidLit Love podcast, I’m talking with Stacey Lee about her newest young adult novel: HEIRESS OF NOWHERE.In this gripping historical gothic mystery, an orphan races to uncover a killer - who may have come from the sea - when she and her beloved orcas fall under suspicion. It’s a page-turning story of intrigue and mystery with just a dash of heart-warming romantic drama. Come listen as we talk about how Stacey’s research process influenced the course of the book, the beautiful setting for the book that I’ve added to my bookish bucket list, the multiple characters and themes that provide so many different entry points for readers and her hopes that readers will find and feel layers of connections while reading. You’ll find the show notes for the episode with links to all of the books and resources mentioned right here: https://www.alitlife.com/2026/03/12/immersive-intrigue-mystery-heiress-of-nowhere-by-stacey-lee/Join me inside my Facebook community for bookish people! There, we talk about all things books and reading and writing and notebooking, too! You'll get updates for this podcast, along with my other Get Lit(erate). podcast and build your literate community for adult and children's literature: https://www.facebook.com/groups/getliterateIf you’d like to support the podcast, consider purchasing some KidLit Love merchandise from my Zazzle store: https://www.zazzle.com/store/alitlife All earnings are funneled right back into the podcast expenses and maintenance fees. Thanks for your support!Follow Stephanie:Website: http://www.alitlife.com/   Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/AffinitoLitInstagram: http://www.instagram.com/AffinitoLitTwitter: http://www.twitter.com/AffinitoLit This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kidlitlove.substack.com

On this episode of the KidLit Love podcast, I’m talking with Jamie Sumner about her newest middle grade novel-in-verse: GLORY BE.In this book, a girl searches for her lost dog and truths about her family and finds out a great deal about herself in the process. It’s heartfelt and heartwarming and the perfect middle novel for all of us. Come listen as we talk about the reasons why this story was destined to be written in verse, the layered themes found on the page in lyrical verse that pierces readers’ emotions and Jamie’s beautiful hope for readers and families. You’ll find the show notes for the episode with links to all of the books and resources mentioned right here: https://www.alitlife.com/2026/03/09/piercing-emotion-glory-be-by-jamie-sumner/ Join me inside my Facebook community for bookish people! There, we talk about all things books and reading and writing and notebooking, too! You'll get updates for this podcast, along with my other Get Lit(erate). podcast and build your literate community for adult and children's literature: https://www.facebook.com/groups/getliterateIf you’d like to support the podcast, consider purchasing some KidLit Love merchandise from my Zazzle store: https://www.zazzle.com/store/alitlife All earnings are funneled right back into the podcast expenses and maintenance fees. Thanks for your support!Follow Stephanie:Website: http://www.alitlife.com/   Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/AffinitoLitInstagram: http://www.instagram.com/AffinitoLitTwitter: http://www.twitter.com/AffinitoLit This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kidlitlove.substack.com

On this episode of the KidLit Love podcast, I’m talking with Dr. Lynette Fraga, the CEO of Reach Out & Read, a nonprofit organization that promotes reading by working directly with pediatric care providers to share the lifelong benefits that result from families reading aloud to their children every day.Come listen as we talk about the important mission behind Reach Out and Read’s work, the incredible impact it has on millions of children and their families, the layers of benefits and the ripple effect felt for years to come and the ways you can get involved and support this important organization.You’ll find the show notes for the episode with links to all of the books and resources mentioned right here: https://www.alitlife.com/2026/03/05/a-champion-for-literacy-reach-out-read-with-dr-lynette-fraga/Join me inside my Facebook community for bookish people! There, we talk about all things books and reading and writing and notebooking, too! You'll get updates for this podcast, along with my other Get Lit(erate). podcast and build your literate community for adult and children's literature: https://www.facebook.com/groups/getliterateIf you’d like to support the podcast, consider purchasing some KidLit Love merchandise from my Zazzle store: https://www.zazzle.com/store/alitlife All earnings are funneled right back into the podcast expenses and maintenance fees. Thanks for your support!Follow Stephanie:Website: http://www.alitlife.com/   Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/AffinitoLitInstagram: http://www.instagram.com/AffinitoLitTwitter: http://www.twitter.com/AffinitoLit This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kidlitlove.substack.com

On this episode of the KidLit Love podcast, I’m talking with Jeff Gottesfeld and Matt Tavares about their newest picture book: HONOR FLIGHT.This stunning picture book honors military veterans and the program that keeps their contributions alive. It’s immersive and emotional and will likely spark you to get involved in the worthy cause.Come listen as we talk about the inspiration behind HONOR FLIGHT and its previous companion book TWENTY-ONE STEPS: GUARDING THE TOMB OF THE UNKNOWN SOLDIER. We’ll also talk about the very personal connections both Jeff and Matt have to the book and their meaningful hopes for the book that invite each of us to get involved. You’ll find the show notes for the episode with links to all of the books and resources mentioned right here: https://www.alitlife.com/2026/03/02/celebrate-commemorate-honor-flight-by-jeff-gottesfeld-matt-tavares/Join me inside my Facebook community for bookish people! There, we talk about all things books and reading and writing and notebooking, too! You'll get updates for this podcast, along with my other Get Lit(erate). podcast and build your literate community for adult and children's literature: https://www.facebook.com/groups/getliterateIf you’d like to support the podcast, consider purchasing some KidLit Love merchandise from my Zazzle store: https://www.zazzle.com/store/alitlife All earnings are funneled right back into the podcast expenses and maintenance fees. Thanks for your support!Follow Stephanie:Website: http://www.alitlife.com/   Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/AffinitoLitInstagram: http://www.instagram.com/AffinitoLitTwitter: http://www.twitter.com/AffinitoLit This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kidlitlove.substack.com

On this episode of the KidLit Love podcast, I’m talking with Huda Al-Marashi about her newest release: HAIL MARIAM.This middle grade novel is a heartfelt and humorous interfaith and coming of age story that follows Mariam as he navigates the challenges of being the only Muslim student at her Catholic school. It balances faith, family and friendship and is everything you hope for in a middle grade novel. Come listen as we talk about Huda’s personal experiences that connect to the themes of the book, the balancing act the main character faced and the ways she learned and grew throughout the arc of the story and the promise of curiosity and conversation this book will offer readers and those around them. It’s the perfect book for a caregiver-child book club!You’ll find the show notes for the episode with links to all of the books and resources mentioned right here: https://www.alitlife.com/2026/02/23/sparking-curiosity-conversation-hail-mariam-with-huda-al-marashi/Join me inside my Facebook community for bookish people! There, we talk about all things books and reading and writing and notebooking, too! You'll get updates for this podcast, along with my other Get Lit(erate). podcast and build your literate community for adult and children's literature: https://www.facebook.com/groups/getliterateIf you’d like to support the podcast, consider purchasing some KidLit Love merchandise from my Zazzle store: https://www.zazzle.com/store/alitlife All earnings are funneled right back into the podcast expenses and maintenance fees. Thanks for your support!Follow Stephanie:Website: http://www.alitlife.com/   Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/AffinitoLitInstagram: http://www.instagram.com/AffinitoLitTwitter: http://www.twitter.com/AffinitoLit This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kidlitlove.substack.com

On this episode of the KidLit Love podcast, I’m talking with Steph Littlebird about her newest picture book: YOU ARE THE LAND.This stunning picture book is a moving love letter to indigenous community and culture and is Steph’s debut as an author-illustrator. The format of the book is exquisite and conveys such beauty, emotion and connection. Come listen as we talk about the role that art has played in Steph’s life since childhood, how this book originated from her work with adults and the powerful call to action the book invites us to consider. You’ll find the show notes for the episode with links to all of the books and resources mentioned right here: https://www.alitlife.com/2026/02/16/beauty-emotion-connection-you-are-the-land-by-steph-littlebird/Join me inside my Facebook community for bookish people! There, we talk about all things books and reading and writing and notebooking, too! You'll get updates for this podcast, along with my other Get Lit(erate). podcast and build your literate community for adult and children's literature: https://www.facebook.com/groups/getliterateIf you’d like to support the podcast, consider purchasing some KidLit Love merchandise from my Zazzle store: https://www.zazzle.com/store/alitlife All earnings are funneled right back into the podcast expenses and maintenance fees. Thanks for your support!Follow Stephanie:Website: http://www.alitlife.com/   Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/AffinitoLitInstagram: http://www.instagram.com/AffinitoLitTwitter: http://www.twitter.com/AffinitoLit This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kidlitlove.substack.com

On this episode of the KidLit Love podcast, I’m talking with Sandra Magsamen about her newest board book: 100 WORDS TO SAY I LOVE YOU.This delightful board book celebrates 100 words of love in all kinds of locations and situations and reminds us that love is around us, especially perfect for this Valentine’s Day episode release!Come listen as we talk about the poetic structure of this beautiful book, the expansive definition of love celebrated on the pages and the tsunami of love Sandra hopes will arrive (it will!) as caregivers and young readers interact with the text. This is a book for everyone as we can never have enough love in the world, especially now. You’ll find the show notes for the episode with links to all of the books and resources mentioned right here: https://www.alitlife.com/2026/02/14/a-tsunami-of-love-100-words-to-say-i-love-you-by-sandra-magsamen/Join me inside my Facebook community for bookish people! There, we talk about all things books and reading and writing and notebooking, too! You'll get updates for this podcast, along with my other Get Lit(erate). podcast and build your literate community for adult and children's literature: https://www.facebook.com/groups/getliterateIf you’d like to support the podcast, consider purchasing some KidLit Love merchandise from my Zazzle store: https://www.zazzle.com/store/alitlife All earnings are funneled right back into the podcast expenses and maintenance fees. Thanks for your support!Follow Stephanie:Website: http://www.alitlife.com/   Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/AffinitoLitInstagram: http://www.instagram.com/AffinitoLitTwitter: http://www.twitter.com/AffinitoLit This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kidlitlove.substack.com

On this episode of the KidLit Love podcast, I’m talking with Megan McDonald about TWO of her newest releases: FAIRY DOOR DIARIES: ALIZA & THE HOBGLOBINS and BUNNY & CLYDE ON THE LAM.FAIRY DOOR DIARIES: ALIZA & THE HOBGLOBINS is the second book in an enchanting series that will happily be devoured by readers who believe in fairies and all other magical folk….like me.BUNNY & CLYDE ON THE LAM is the newest book in the series that follows two adorable characters who couldn’t be outlaws when they tried, but are not being framed as the Fall Guys.Come listen as we talk about the set of puppets that launched Megan’s writing career, why you’ll want to create a fairy door for your UnderStairs, the real-life nods to Bonnie and Clyde in Bunny and Clyde and her hopes for readers: a bit of escape and magic in what can be a tough world. You’ll find the show notes for the episode with links to all of the books and resources mentioned right here: https://www.alitlife.com/2026/02/09/a-magical-escape-fairy-door-diaries-bunny-clyde-with-megan-mcdonald/Join me inside my Facebook community for bookish people! There, we talk about all things books and reading and writing and notebooking, too! You'll get updates for this podcast, along with my other Get Lit(erate). podcast and build your literate community for adult and children's literature: https://www.facebook.com/groups/getliterateIf you’d like to support the podcast, consider purchasing some KidLit Love merchandise from my Zazzle store: https://www.zazzle.com/store/alitlife All earnings are funneled right back into the podcast expenses and maintenance fees. Thanks for your support!Follow Stephanie:Website: http://www.alitlife.com/   Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/AffinitoLitInstagram: http://www.instagram.com/AffinitoLitTwitter: http://www.twitter.com/AffinitoLit This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kidlitlove.substack.com

On this episode of the KidLit Love podcast, I’m talking with Pooja Makhijani about her newest picture book: BREAD IS LOVE.This beautiful picture book explores family rituals, baking and eating good food and it is sure to bring you all the feels while reading, Plus, there’s a bread recipe in the back of the book and a gluten free option, too!Come listen as we talk about the connection between baking bread and mindfulness and mental health, the beautiful illustrations that add to the coziness of the book and Pooja’s hopes for readers around their own bread-making adventures. You’ll find the show notes for the episode with links to all of the books and resources mentioned right here: https://www.alitlife.com/2026/02/02/cozy-family-rituals-bread-is-love-by-pooja-makhijani/Join me inside my Facebook community for bookish people! There, we talk about all things books and reading and writing and notebooking, too! You'll get updates for this podcast, along with my other Get Lit(erate). podcast and build your literate community for adult and children's literature: https://www.facebook.com/groups/getliterateIf you’d like to support the podcast, consider purchasing some KidLit Love merchandise from my Zazzle store: https://www.zazzle.com/store/alitlife All earnings are funneled right back into the podcast expenses and maintenance fees. Thanks for your support!Follow Stephanie:Website: http://www.alitlife.com/   Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/AffinitoLitInstagram: http://www.instagram.com/AffinitoLitTwitter: http://www.twitter.com/AffinitoLit This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kidlitlove.substack.com

On this episode of the KidLit Love podcast, I’m talking with Tracy Wolff about her newest middle grade novel: THE AFTERMYTH.This dark academia fantasy middle grade novel is a bold and magical tale about forging your own path and is gripping from the very first page to the last.Come listen as we talk about how Tracy is hoping to redefine history into ‘herstory’, the beautiful themes that will envelope readers as they read and her hopes for readers…and the upcoming series that’s to come, too!You’ll find the show notes for the episode with links to all of the books and resources mentioned right here: Join me inside my Facebook community for bookish people! There, we talk about all things books and reading and writing and notebooking, too! You'll get updates for this podcast, along with my other Get Lit(erate). podcast and build your literate community for adult and children's literature: https://www.facebook.com/groups/getliterateIf you’d like to support the podcast, consider purchasing some KidLit Love merchandise from my Zazzle store: https://www.zazzle.com/store/alitlife All earnings are funneled right back into the podcast expenses and maintenance fees. Thanks for your support!Follow Stephanie:Website: http://www.alitlife.com/   Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/AffinitoLitInstagram: http://www.instagram.com/AffinitoLitTwitter: http://www.twitter.com/AffinitoLit This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kidlitlove.substack.com

On this episode of the KidLit Love podcast, I’m talking with Kao Kalia Yang & Jen Shin about their newest picture book together: THE BLUE HOUSE I LOVED.In this stunning picture book, a Hmong girl tells the story of her beloved aunt and uncle's first home in America, long gone but still alive in the family’s memories. It’s both lyrical and ethereal and captures themes around family, what makes a home and the legacy that surrounds both. Come listen as we talk about the real-life inspiration behind the book, the brilliant way the emotional words are brought to life in multiple formats and the beautiful hopes they both have for this book. We talk about memories and the importance of them, the timelessness of this book and the beauty that awaits readers.You’ll find the show notes for the episode with links to all of the books and resources mentioned right here: https://www.alitlife.com/2026/01/26/finding-home-inside-the-blue-house-i-loved-by-kao-kalia-yang-jen-shin/Join me inside my Facebook community for bookish people! There, we talk about all things books and reading and writing and notebooking, too! You'll get updates for this podcast, along with my other Get Lit(erate). podcast and build your literate community for adult and children's literature: https://www.facebook.com/groups/getliterateIf you’d like to support the podcast, consider purchasing some KidLit Love merchandise from my Zazzle store: https://www.zazzle.com/store/alitlife All earnings are funneled right back into the podcast expenses and maintenance fees. Thanks for your support!Follow Stephanie:Website: http://www.alitlife.com/   Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/AffinitoLitInstagram: http://www.instagram.com/AffinitoLitTwitter: http://www.twitter.com/AffinitoLit This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kidlitlove.substack.com

On this episode of the KidLit Love podcast, I’m talking with Nadine Presley about her newest picture book: A RAMADAN NIGHT.This beautiful picture book celebrates the beginning of Ramadan with a young boy and his father exploring the wonder, excitement and peace of the holiday. It's a book you can feel in your heart and truly experience. Come listen as we talk about Nadine’s journey into the world of children’s literature, her reasoning behind the breathtaking format of the book and who A RAMADAN NIGHT is for. Spoiler alert: It’s for EVERYONE!You’ll find the show notes for the episode with links to all of the books and resources mentioned right here: https://www.alitlife.com/2026/01/19/immersive-emotional-a-ramadan-night-by-nadine-presley/Join me inside my Facebook community for bookish people! There, we talk about all things books and reading and writing and notebooking, too! You'll get updates for this podcast, along with my other Get Lit(erate). podcast and build your literate community for adult and children's literature: https://www.facebook.com/groups/getliterateIf you’d like to support the podcast, consider purchasing some KidLit Love merchandise from my Zazzle store: https://www.zazzle.com/store/alitlife All earnings are funneled right back into the podcast expenses and maintenance fees. Thanks for your support!Follow Stephanie:Website: http://www.alitlife.com/   Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/AffinitoLitInstagram: http://www.instagram.com/AffinitoLitTwitter: http://www.twitter.com/AffinitoLit This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kidlitlove.substack.com

On this episode of the KidLit Love podcast, I’m talking with V.T. Bidania about her newest middle grade novel: A YEAR WITHOUT A HOME.This middle grade historical fiction novel-in-verse illuminates the long, difficult journey that many Hmong refugees faced after the Vietnam war. It’s full of gorgeous prose, lyrical descriptions and a level of emotion that seeps into your heart.Come listen as we talk about V.T. 's journey through children’s literature across decades and distances, the beautiful themes of home, family and identity that are woven onto every page and the important hopes she has for readers of all ages. This is a book that you won’t soon forget and will likely need your Kleenex while reading. You’ll find the show notes for the episode with links to all of the books and resources mentioned right here: https://www.alitlife.com/2026/01/12/big-emotions-beautiful-themes-a-year-without-a-home-by-v-t-bidania/Join me inside my Facebook community for bookish people! There, we talk about all things books and reading and writing and notebooking, too! You'll get updates for this podcast, along with my other Get Lit(erate). podcast and build your literate community for adult and children's literature: https://www.facebook.com/groups/getliterateIf you’d like to support the podcast, consider purchasing some KidLit Love merchandise from my Zazzle store: https://www.zazzle.com/store/alitlife All earnings are funneled right back into the podcast expenses and maintenance fees. Thanks for your support!Follow Stephanie:Website: http://www.alitlife.com/   Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/AffinitoLitInstagram: http://www.instagram.com/AffinitoLitTwitter: http://www.twitter.com/AffinitoLit This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kidlitlove.substack.com