Kidlit Love: Conversations with Picture Book and Middle Grade Authors

Afleveringen

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  E239: A Cozy Early Reader: SCHOOL FOR WOODLAND CREATURES by Lauren Castillo 03.08.2026 35min

  Happy Monday!Can I ask you for a favor?I’m spending some time reflecting on where KidLit Love is headed next. Before I make any decisions, I’d love to learn more about the people who have welcomed this podcast into their lives. If you’ve been listening for a while, would you tell me a little about yourself and your reading life? I’m especially curious about what keeps you coming back and what kinds of conversations you hope we continue having.Here’s a quick poll to get us started and I’d love for those willing to share comments to scroll down and leave some thoughts! If you do, I’ll enter you into a raffle to receive a book discussed on the podcast! Thank you!Thank you for sharing your thoughts with me. Keep scrolling for the latest book birthdays and to listen to my latest podcast episode with Lauren Castillo!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:🎉MILTON MAKES A MOVE by Jonathan Graziano (Amazon / Bookshop)This is a delightfully a charming and heartfelt picture book following Milton the pug, the author’s newly adopted dog, as he makes a brave move to his forever home! It’s part of the Noodle and Jonathon series, so there are more books to love, too!🎉SAD MAD GLAD by John Micklos Jr. (Amazon / Bookshop)This book explores the wide breadth of emotions that kids encounter every day in this gentle rhyming picture book about feelings, friends, and sibling bonds. It also includes an educator afterword to delve into social-emotional learning connections for all of the parents, educators and librarians.🎉SURVIVAL SHOW by Juno Dawson (Amazon / Bookshop)The world just seems to take and take from Taryn Beck, but there’s one thing it’ll never have: her voice. Only when she’s singing does Taryn feel like she can escape her reality: free from the aftermath of the War, free from the Scottish refugee camps where she and her family now live, and free from the responsibility of making ends meet for the sake of her sick brother. It’s dystopian adventure at its best!E239: A Cozy Early Reader: SCHOOL FOR WOODLAND CREATURES by Lauren CastilloOn this episode of the KidLit Love podcast, I’m talking with Lauren Castillo about her newest release: SCHOOL FOR WOODLAND CREATURES.This newest release of the OUR FRIEND HEDGEHOG series is a cozy early reader that takes place on the first day of school and is about overcoming your doubts and letting your light shine. It’s delightful!Come listen as we talk about Lauren’s multi-faceted journey into children’s literature, the personal connection behind each book in the OUR FRIEND HEDGEHOG series and the beautiful themes that are sure to inspire readers. Plus, you’ll learn what my favorite illustration in the book was, a theme carried through the whole series. It’s a delightful and joyful 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!SCHOOL FOR WOODLAND CREATURES by Lauren Castillo (Amazon / Bookshop)Here’s where you can find Lauren online:Website: https://www.laurencastillo.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/studiocastilloI’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
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  E238: Finding Joy & Safety: TODAY WE’LL BE EATEN by Alan Barillaro 27.07.2026 23min

  Happy Monday!I absolutely, positively cannot wait to share TODAY WE’LL BE EATEN by Alan Barillaro with you. It’s the picture book that I needed in this very moment and I know it will resonate first with all of the adults who find it and then with the children they share it with. Plus, I’ve got three new releases you won’t want to miss!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:🎉MAUD AND THE VERY EVENTFUL WEEK by Lisa Anchin (Amazon / Bookshop)Who knew I’d fall in love with an adorable little vampire named Maud?! In this early chapter book, we follow Maud through a week of ever-so-gently-spooky adventures in this charming story with the most delightful illustrations. 🎉SCRITCH! SCRATCH! by by Teri Sloat (Amazon / Bookshop)Are you ready for a bit of early Halloween fun? This GORGEOUS book gives readers a “safe scare” with a rhyming picture book about a group of kids outrunning a witch’s itchy spell, perfect for little ones looking for a dose of extra-eerie fun! I was mesmerized by the color palette in this one!🎉MY CROWN IS GOOD by Sydney Hart (Amazon / Bookshop)This indie-published picture book encourages young readers to embrace their natural hair, build confidence, and understand that they are wonderfully made.E238: Finding Joy & Safety: TODAY WE’LL BE EATEN by Alan BarillaroOn this episode of the KidLit Love podcast, I’m talking with Alan Barillaro about his picture book debut: TODAY WE’LL BE EATEN.This book is a beautiful, timeless tale of friendship and resilience that follows Ladybug and Dragonfly as they navigate a storm and discover unexpected joy and friendship. It’s a picture book for every reader of every age. Come listen as we talk about the fear and insecurity that kept him from writing children’s books earlier, the way he allows emotion to drive his artistic process on the page and how he juggles multiple projects to keep his creativity high.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!TODAY WE’LL BE EATEN by Alan Barillaro (Amazon / Bookshop)Here’s where you can find Alan online: Website: https://www.alanbarillaro.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alan.barillaro/ 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
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  E237: Heartwarming Horror: THE HAUNTING OF OLD SPLINTER by Jack Mackay 20.07.2026 27min

  Happy Monday!This week, I stretched out of my reading comfort zone into middle grade horror with heart and fell in love. This genre is growing and for good reason. Come listen as I talk with Jack Mackay about his newest middle grade horror release and browse the new books publishing this week that made their way to my bookshelf!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:🎉ADVENTURE IN THE CITY OF STORIES by Emma Otheguy (Amazon / Bookshop)I was lucky enough to talk with Emma when COUSINS IN THE TIME OF MAGIC, so I am incredibly excited about this newest companion release. This time, the cousins are traveling back to the 1930’s in New York City to clear their aunt’s name and return the treasures belonging to Pura Belpré, the trailblazing Latina librarian and storyteller. If you’re a book lover, you’ll love this book!🎉THE EXPLORERS by Dee Hahn (Amazon / Bookshop)This may be the most heart-warming book I read all summer. It’s a funny and reassuring picture book about finding your people and navigating big life changes, with a charming grandparent-grandchild duo at its core. It has my heart.🎉THE BOOK MACHINE by Laurie Duersch (Amazon / Bookshop)Do you feel like you have a book inside of you? This book will inspire your story to come out so the world can enjoy it, too. Across the pages, you’ll find that a boy’s innovative genius proves that machines can never replace writers in this picture book about creativity, imagination, and the writing process. It’s timely and sure to be loved by anyone reading this newsletter. E237: Heartwarming Horror: THE HAUNTING OF OLD SPLINTER by Jack MackayOn this episode of the KidLit Love podcast, I’m talking with Jack Mackay about his newest middle grade book: THE HAUNTING OF OLD SPLINTER.In this be-careful-what-you-wish-for middle grade horror novel, Peter and his half brother Adrian’s innocent wish to protect their family turns into a sinister reality with the help of a mummified hand that can grant any wish…with dark consequences. Readers will be glued to the page. I know I was!Come listen as we talk about this delightfully creepy, horror novel with heart that is for every reader no matter what their experience and interest in horror novels are. We discuss how the book offers an immersive world for readers wanting a bit of creepiness along with the heartfelt themes of family, siblinghood and middle grade life, much of which was inspired by Jack’s own siblings and love of horror.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 HAUNTING OF OLD SPLINTER by Jack Mackay (Amazon / Bookshop)Here’s where you can find Jack online:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jamackay_/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
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  E236: Being Open to Change: Fútbol Is Life! ¡Fútbol es vida! by Cristo Fernandez 13.07.2026 12min

  Happy Monday!I hope you’ve had a wonderful weekend full of books and reading and are ready to add a couple of brand new picture books to your summer TBR stack! This week, I’m talking with Cristo Fernandez about his newest picture book that might seem to be about football, but also contains what I think is one of life’s most important lessons inside. Keep scrolling for two other picture books you MUST explore and then listen to the quick episode with Cristo!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:🎉THE OUTERMOST MOUSE by Lauren Wolk (Amazon / Bookshop)This book has my summer heart. Readers meet a tiny-but-mighty little mouse who faces down an incoming storm to protect her home. It’s full of lyrical prose and beautiful courage. It’s stunning!🎉THE HOUSE WITH NOBODY IN IT by Jon Klassen (Amazon / Bookshop)It’s a book shaped like a home with literal widows into the story! Here are the things in this house: a chair, a clock on the wall, a stool, a lamp. And more. What’s missing from this house? Somebody. This is the house with nobody in it. Well, there might be something . . . Such fun!E236: Fútbol Is Life! / ¡Fútbol es vida! by Cristo FernandezOn this episode of the KidLit Love podcast, I’m talking with Cristo Fernandez about his new picture book: Fútbol Is Life! / ¡Fútbol es vida!This inspirational bilingual picture book follows Critobalito, a young boy who is sidelined from the game he loves so much, but who finds new joy in the space that opened up as a result. It explores themes like being open to change and exploring new passions and is a book for everyone.Come listen as we talk about Cristo’s real-life inspiration behind the book, the important themes around being open to new things and the reminder that it’s never too late to follow your dreams and see what happens. It’s a book for all readers who need that reminder, like me!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!Fútbol Is Life! / ¡Fútbol es vida! by Cristo Fernandez (Amazon / Bookshop)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
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  E235: Bilingual Celebration & Joy: HAPPY BIRTHDAY, JOSE & FELIZ by Susan Rose & Silvia Lopez 06.07.2026 40min

  Happy Monday!I hope you’ve enjoyed the holiday weekend and as my last podcast episode reminded us, stopped the stream of social media and focused on what mattered most to you. This week, I’ve got a fun episode with Susan Rose & Silvia Lopez talking about their latest book focused on celebrating life’s special moments. Press play and take a listen!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:🎉ELEVEN KINDS OF BLUE by Katherine Wolff (Amazon / Bookshop)An art-obsessed twelve-year-old learns to paint outside the lines to confront her fears and find her strength when her depressed mom’s disastrous boyfriend moves in. This one is going to stay with me for a long while. 🎉EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT LIFE YOU CAN LEARN FROM A DOG by Bruce Littlefield (Amazon / Bookshop)As someone with four dogs, I fell head over hells for this delightful book. It’s perfect for dog-lovers and anyone who needs to remember the simple things in life matter.E235: HAPPY BIRTHDAY, JOSE & FELIZ by Susan Rose & Silvia LopezOn this episode of the KidLit Love podcast, I’m talking with Susan Rose & Silvia Lopez about their newest book: HAPPY BIRTHDAY JOSE & FELIZ.This is the newest book in their Jose & El Perro series, a bilingual adventure series that shines a spotlight on rescue dogs and encourages young readers to create special moments of their own to celebrate the ones they love. In this newest book, HAPPY BIRTHDAY, JOSE & FELIZ, Jose realizes that his best furry friend needs a birthday celebration and the book showcases his journey to giving Feliz the celebration he deserves.Come listen as we talk about how the collaboration between Susan and Siliva came to be, the delightful storyline inside each book in the series, the interesting fact about shelter dog birthdays that might be new to you and their hopes for readers who get this book into their hands.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!HAPPY BIRTHDAY JOSE & FELIZ by Susan Rose & Silvia Lopez (Amazon / Bookshop)Here’s where you can find Susan online:Website: https://www.susanroseauthor.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/susanroseauthor/Here’s where you can find Silvia online:Website: https://www.silvialopezbooks.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/silvialopezauthor/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
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  E234: Unplug & Reconnect: STREAM by Aida Salazar 03.07.2026 31min

  Happy Friday!The holiday weekend is here and is this bonus podcast episode is the perfect reminder to stay present, take a breath unplug from your devices and plug into the connections around you. I think it’s a lesson we all need to learn and a book we all need to read!StephanieE234: Unplug & Reconnect: STREAM by Aida SalazarOn this episode of the KidLit Love podcast, I’m talking with Aida Salazar about her newest middle grade novel: STREAM.In this middle grade and upper middle grade verse novel, two teens are sent to Mexico for the summer to unplug and reconnect to the natural world. It’s a stand-alone book that tells the story of two characters from her earlier titles and explores a topic I think every reader needs to reflect upon: digital consumption, social media use and the impact both have on our bodies and spirits.Come listen as we talk about the characters Aida brought together in this dual-perspective novel, the challenges facing young people today around digital technology and social media and her hopes for readers to thoughtfully and intentionally examine their own digital lives and reconnect with the natural world.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!STREAM by Aida Salazar (Amazon / Bookshop)Here’s where you can find Aida online:Website: http://www.aidasalazar.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aida_writes/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
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  E233: The 250th Anniversary: THE DECLARATION DECODED by Katie Kennedy 29.06.2026 23min

  Happy Monday!I’m not sure how it happened, but the month of June is coming to a close and July is almost here! Time is moving so quickly and I am determined to better enjoy the coming month more than I did the last one.Enter books. I’ve got a collection of picture books to share that will help you sink into a lovely summer season and make the most of the days ahead. They’re beautiful and delightful!Keep scrolling to get all the details on the new episode too!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:🎉MABEL’S MUSEUM OF WONDERS by Dana Wulfekotte (Amazon / Bookshop)As someone who adores miniature things, this delightful book about collections and friendship went straight to my heart. Mabel is a wombat who loves collecting tiny treasures. But after a recent move, the one thing she doesn’t have is a friend to share her treasures with, so she decides to open her very own “Museum of Wonders!” But will anyone show up who will appreciate her collections like she does? I know I would and now, I want to open a museum for the childhood collections I saved, too!🎉STUBBY: A PENCIL’S JOURNEY by Sydra Mallery (Amazon / Bookshop)Every single person who enjoys reading and writing needs to have this book on their shelf! As a child, I could watch the video about how crayons were made over and over and over again and as an adult who loves to write, I’ll be reading this book over and over and over again. It’s a humorous and informational account of a pencil’s journey from cedar tree to classroom as told by a stubby little pencil himself. =)🎉A COZY SUMMER DAY by Eliza Wheeler (Amazon / Bookshop)New York Times bestselling author Eliza Wheeler’s companion to A Cozy Winter Day welcomes readers into sun-dappled scenes of a cozy summer in Acorn Village, bringing the joys of summertime to refreshingly vivid life. Do you want to slow down and really embody the beauty and presence of summer? Start with this book!The 250th Anniversary: THE DECLARATION DECODED by Katie KennedyOn this episode of the KidLit Love podcast, I’m talking with Katie Kennedy about her newest book: THE DECLARATION DECODED.This inviting book goes through the Declaration of Independence sentence by sentence idea by idea, and gives readers not only a deep understanding of the language, but also the historical background against which it was written and the powerful arguments it makes some of which we are still having 250 years later.Come listen as we talk about exactly how Katie makes American history so accessible and interesting, the key aspects of the Declaration that are most misunderstood and the importance of the document in today’s world, too.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 DECLARATION DECODED by Katie Kennedy (Amazon / Bookshop)Here’s where you can find Katie online:Website: https://katiekennedybooks.com/Bluesky: https://blueskydirectory.com/profiles/katiewritesbks.bsky.socialI’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
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  E232: Caring in Community: TOGETHER FOR MAMA by Pooja Makhijani 22.06.2026 30min

  Happy Monday!Monday always feels better after a weekend full of books, bookstores and bookish friends. Lucky for me, this feeling will continue as I release an episode that will wrap you in love, too. Pooja is a repeat guest on the podcast and we had an important conversation for all. Keep scrolling to get all the details on the new episode!Happy reading!StephanieCaring in Community: TOGETHER FOR MAMA by Pooja MakhijaniOn this episode of the KidLit Love podcast, I’m talking with Pooja Makhijani about her newest picture book: TOGETHER FOR MAMA.This beautiful picture book is a story about care and how it moves through family and communities, how children witness it and how they offer it in return. This is a beautiful story of hope and healing for all of us.Come listen as we talk about the deeply personal inspiration behind the book, the stunning fusion of words and images that bring the book to life and Pooja’s heartfelt hopes for collective care and understanding, not just for postpartum depression, but for anything we might face.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!TOGETHER FOR MAMA by Pooja Makhijani (Amazon / Bookshop)Here’s where you can find Pooja online:Website: https://www.poojamakhijani.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/laborofloafI’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
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  E231: Friendship, Identity & Books: THE CHISMOSAS ONLY BOOK CLUB by Laekan Zea Kemp 18.06.2026 28min

  Hello Everyone, This. This book. This book is the quintessential middle grade book for middle grade readers, adult readers with an inner child and ANYONE who loves books. I’m so excited about the surprise I share at the end. If you’re interested in joining my book club relay for this book, please reach out and/or comment below. Let’s bring the book club to life together!Keep scrolling to get all the details on the new podcast episode!Happy reading!StephanieFriendship, Identity & Books: THE CHISMOSAS ONLY BOOK CLUB by Laekan Zea KempOn this episode of the KidLit Love podcast, I’m talking with Laekan Zea Kemp about her newest middle grade novel: THE CHISMOSAS ONLY BOOK CLUB.This instant-classic, middle grade coming-of-age novel is filled with friendship, identity and the magic of bookstores. Say no more and add to cart, right?! Plus, the format is incredibly appealing: text message threads, comic panels and sketches and even a few spells and herbal concoctions for when you need them most.Come listen as we talk about the upper middle grade niche that this book speaks to, the varied themes, realities and formats that make the book so inviting and appealing and the role that this book could play in sparking a love of reading (and more reading!) for all that read it. You won’t want to miss this one!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 CHISMOSAS ONLY BOOK CLUB by Laekan Zea Kemp (Amazon / Bookshop)Here’s where you can find Laekan online:Website: https://www.laekanzeakemp.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/laekanzeakemp/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
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  E230: Celebrating Movement & Freedom: ON OUR BIKES by Dan Saks 15.06.2026 23min

  Happy Monday!In upstate New York, summer feels like it has arrived! The weather is warmer, the days are longer and there’s more time for reading books we love. I’ve had a couple of listeners/readers reach out to ask if I’m offering any summer book clubs, writing sessions or other KidLit fun and I have thought about a few ideas that I’d love your feedback on. Could you take a moment to respond to this poll?Thanks for your support and feedback. Let’s see what happens next!Keep scrolling to get all the details on the new podcast 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:🎉SEARCHING FOR WOCKS by Lucy Knisley (Amazon / Bookshop)Oh, my goodness, this book. It chronicles the unhurried walk of a child on the hunt for ‘wocks’ to add to her collection. It’s a portrait of youthful enthusiasm and the beauty of the everyday, means means adults ESPECIALLY need to read and share it.🎉ACTUAL FACTUAL FILES: OUTER SPACE by Ali Adams (Amazon / Bookshop)This book is perfect for anyone looking to learn more about outer space and have fun while doing it. It’s got a clever, colorful design, engaging text, and easy-to-understand explanations making the content accessible and therefore, easy to share. 🎉ACTUAL FACTUAL FILES: ANCIENT EGYPT by Ali Adams (Amazon / Bookshop)This is the second book in the series and tackles everything you want to know about ancient Egypt from geography to mummies to hieroglyphics. The charts, checklists, diagrams and Fact Files will keep readers glued to the page!Celebrating Movement & Freedom: ON OUR BIKES by Dan SaksOn this episode of the KidLit Love podcast, I’m talking with Dan Saks about his newest picture book: ON OUR BIKES.This book is a joyful all-ages celebration of bikes and bike culture and is the perfect book to kick off a season of Spring and Summer reading. You’ll feel the energy vibrating off the pages!Come listen as we talk about the origin story behind the book (it started as a song!), the incredible motion, movement and energy inside the book and the movement I think we all need to help Dan start around the country. Listen to find out what it is!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!ON OUR BIKES by Dan Saks (Amazon / Bookshop)Here’s where you can find Dan online:Website: https://www.noodleloaf.com/aboutInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/dansaks/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
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  E229: Finding Your Way: FIFTH GRADE TOP DOGS by Jerry Spinelli 11.06.2026 17min

  Hello Everyone, As promised, here’s the bonus episode I mentioned earlier in the week with Jerry Spinelli. From my first teaching position to now, his books have been in my classroom library and my home bookshelf and I’m thrilled to help him launch his newest release!Keep scrolling to get all the details on the new podcast episode!Happy reading!StephanieE229: Finding Your Way: FIFTH GRADE TOP DOGS by Jerry SpinelliOn this episode of the KidLit Love podcast, I’m talking with Jerry Spinelli about his newest middle grade novel: FIFTH GRADE TOP DOGS.This book is part of his RUN THE SCHOOL series and follows George (aka Suds) as he figures out if he has what it takes to be a top dog at his school. This book might have fifth grade in the title, but it’s truly a book for every reader on the precipice of change, trying to figure out what comes next.Come listen as we talk about the title-first way the original book in the series was born, a departure from how Jerry usually works, the one word in his philosophy of writing for children that changes everything and his goal to write a good story where meaning, message and guidance come along for the ride. This was truly a pinch-me moment to have such a thoughtful conversation with an author I admire.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!FIFTH GRADE TOP DOGS by Jerry Spinelli (Amazon / Bookshop)Here’s where you can find Jerry online:Website: https://jerryspinelliauthor.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jerryspinelli1I’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
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  E228: Listen to Your Heart, Find Your People & Say Yes: REALLY RUBIE by Maddie Frost 08.06.2026 34min

  Happy Monday!It’s a busy week here on the KidLit Love podcast! Today, I’m releasing a delightful episode with Maddie Frost about her newest book PERFECT for the summer season. Then, on Thursday, I’ll release an episode with Jerry Spinelli about his newest release. It was a dream-come-true-full-circle-moment for me as an educator! =)Keep scrolling to get all the details on the new podcast 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:🎉WHERE IS MY SISTER? by Shannon Gibney (Amazon / Bookshop)This poetic book captures the heartbreak of losing an infant and the love that joins families together. It’s a book to help get through an incredibly hard situation with love and togetherness. 🎉STREAM by Aida Salazar (Amazon / Bookshop) Two teens are sent to Mexico for the summer to unplug in this hilarious and heartwarming dual narrative by award-winning author Aida Salazar. It’s a standalone story featuring the main characters from Aida’s award-winning verse novels Ultraviolet and The Moon Within. I’m hoping to talk with Aida on the podcast sooon, so stay tuned!E228: Listen to Your Heart, Find Your People & Say Yes: REALLY RUBIE by Maddie FrostOn this episode of the KidLit Love podcast, I’m talking with Maddie Frost about her middle grade debut: REALLY RUBIE.This illustrated novel features Rubie, an eleven-year-old who has to face her first time at sleep-away camp without her best friend. It’s a good thing she has Jim the Duck to help her and a brand-new diary to capture it all.Come listen as we talk about the notebook format of the book, the personal connections Maddie has to the events inside, the beautiful messages that every middle grade reader deserves the hear, the fun and shenanigans that Rubie gets herself into and Maddie’s important reminder not to turn your volume down for anyone.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!REALLY RUBIE by Maddie Frost (Amazon / Bookshop)Here’s where you can find Maddie online:Website: https://www.maddie-frost.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hellomaddiefrost/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
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  E227: Connection & Community: IN THIS CLASSROOM by Andrew Hacket 01.06.2026 48min

  Happy Monday!If I’m completely honest, my weekend wasn’t all that happy. One of our family dogs, our teeny-tiny Lucy, passed away and it has been hard. But like always, I turn to books and notebooks to help me get through most things and this experience is no exception. It reminded me how so many of us grieve the death of a family pet and that I could create a comforting kidlit book list for those that need it now, too. So, I’m reaching out to all of you for your help. What titles would you add to a collection on grieving pet loss? First up for me is WHERE ARE YOU, BRONTE? by Barbara McClintock. I chatted with her about it on the KidLit Love podcast a few months ago and it’s bringing me great comfort now. Keep scrolling to get all the details on the new podcast episode.Happy reading!StephanieE227: Connection & Community: IN THIS CLASSROOM by Andrew HacketOn this episode of the KidLit Love podcast, I’m talking with Andrew Hacket about his newest picture book: IN THIS CLASSROOM.It’s a heartwarming celebration of the school year capturing the joy, struggles and growth of students and teachers as they embark on an unforgettable journey of learning, friendship and personal achievement. It’s the perfect read aloud for any classroom community!Come listen as we talk about Andrew’s manifesto as an educator that has found its way into the book, the front and back matter that feels like a true invitation into the book and the broader community of those who read it and the beautiful structure alongside the bright, delightful pictures on the page. Plus, the book comes with free resources for educators you won’t want to miss Andrew talking about.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!IN THIS CLASSROOM by Andrew Hacket (Amazon / Bookshop)Here’s where you can find Andrew online:Website: https://www.andrewhacket.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/andrewchacket/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
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  E226: Love, Acceptance & Reassurance: MAMA SAYS I’M FINE by Brittney Cooper 25.05.2026 18min

  Happy Monday!It’s still only May, but I am gearing up for a lovely season of summer reading, building my stack and planning my bookish field trips to local book stores and bucket list experiences. I’d love to know what books are already on YOUR kidlit summer TBR and where you plan to head for bookish excursions, if you have them planned. Let’s create a kidlit calendar of bookish fun!Keep scrolling to see the new books that caught my attention this week, too. There are A LOT of amazing books celebrating their book birthdays!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:🎉 THE DECLARATION DECODED: A Guide to the Document that Inspired Our Nation by Katie Kennedy (Amazon / Bookshop)We all know about the Declaration of Independence, but do we really know it? This fascinating book goes through the Declaration sentence by sentence and idea by idea. Katie believes is so important right now for everyday Americans, especially young people, to truly under the Declaration and she bring it to life in her book. I was so enthralled, I invited her onto the KidLit Love podcast, so be sure to keep your eyes open for that episode airing in a few weeks!🎉WHEN THE RAIN CAME by Matt Eicheldinger (Amazon / Bookshop)The is the first YA book in an all-new, action-packed dystopian adventure series by New York Times bestselling author Matt Eicheldinger. It’s on my stack to read next and I can’t wait to dive in, especially because it was recommended by a trusted educator who loves reading as much as I do. 🎉CHARTS FOR BABIES by Michelle Rial (Amazon / Bookshop)This is a quirky and delightful picture book exploring multiple early-learning concepts through simple graphic charts and graphs. It will be read again and again and again and stay just as engaging and beautiful each time. It’s perfect for learning with littles!E226: Love, Acceptance & Reassurance: MAMA SAYS I’M FINE by Brittney CooperOn this episode of the KidLit Love podcast, I’m talking with Brittney Cooper about her newest picture book: MAMA SAYS I’M FINE.This heartwarming picture book is a story of love and resilience that explores the powerful force of a mother-daughter bond. Plus, the illustrations are gorgeous and will wrap you in love.Come listen as we talk about the personal inspiration behind the book, the many shades of a single phrase that can ground us in love and Britteny’s powerful hopes for the book and every reader who is lucky enough to read it.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!MAMA SAYS I’M FINE by Brittney Cooper (Amazon / Bookshop)Here’s where you can find Brittney online:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/professor_crunkI’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
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  E225: Friendship, Fun & Medical Mysteries: DEEPA, M.D. by Priya Swaminathan 21.05.2026 28min

  On this episode of the KidLit Love podcast, I’m talking with Priya Swaminathan about her debut middle grade novel: DEEPA, M.D.This is a heart-warming and funny book about a seventh grader who decides to become a medical detective alongside her Uncle as she juggles friendship, family and middle school…when everyone knows her as the girl who has cancer.Come listen as we talk about Priya’s admirable pivot in midlife that brought her to nursing and writing, the beautiful messages about accepting uncertainty in our lives and the fun and funny connections throughout the book. It’s a new favorite of mine!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!DEEPA, M.D. by Priya Swaminathan (Amazon / Bookshop)Here’s where you can find Priya online:Website: https://priyaswaminathan.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/priyasurprise/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
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  E224: Unforgettable Verse: MY BROTHER OLIVER by R.L Toalson 18.05.2026 35min

  Happy Monday!There has been a lot of upheaval in the world of children’s literature over the past couple of weeks and the only thing I know for sure is this: Children’s literature matters more than ever and I am proud to be a part of the profession sharing books that might be exactly what a reader needs next to feel seen, heard, acknowledged, inspired and part of something bigger than themselves. Keep scrolling to see the new books that caught my attention this week, too. There are A LOT of amazing books celebrating their book birthdays!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:🎉EVA TO THE MAX by Rebecca Caprara (Amazon / Bookshop)This is a fast-paced, exhilarating novel-in-verse about a young motocross phenom, chasing her dream no matter the risks. Motocross is Eva’s life. Nothing beats the rush she feels ripping it up on the course… except maybe the moment just after the race when she removes her helmet, and the other riders realize they just got smoked by a twelve-year-old girl. Readers will love this!🎉THE BOY, THE FATHER, AND THE BEAR by Per Gustavsson (Amazon / Bookshop)Well, this was an unexpected reading adventure. This beautifully illustrated book is a gentle meditation about the nature of life and finding your place in the world no matter what. It’s about love, loss and the roots that keep us anchored to those we love.🎉WE NEED TO TALK ABOUT CANCER by Dr. Sanjay Juneja (Amazon / Bookshop)Sometimes, readers face hard things in their lives and books can help. Whether they have cancer, or they know someone with cancer, they will have a lot of questions. Luckily Dr. Sanjay Juneja is an expert at having these tricky conversations. This book breaks everything down and empowers readers with knowledge. 🎉LYDIA LOVES BUGS by Heidi E.Y. Stemple & Yuliya Pankratova (Amazon / Bookshop)I don’t like bugs, but I loved this book. Lydia collects bugs for show-and-tell and invites readers into the buggy world that her and her entomologist Mom love so much. The end matter was awesome: a list of all the real bugs mentioned in the book!🎉NEIL, THE AMAZING SEA CUCUMBER by Amelia Tonta (Amazon / Bookshop)Neil is a sea cucumber…an ACTUAL cucumber. This book is a true delight and is told in gorgeous illustrations and first-person narrative straight from the cucumber. You have to read this one!🎉UNICORNIA UNICRON RESCUERS: ADVENTURE IN MERMAID LAND by Ana Punset (Amazon / Bookshop)This is the first book in a new full-color series set in the magical Unicornia universe featuring a perilous journey to Mermaid Land! It’s bright and colorful and full of the most delightful magic. I’d like to visit. =)🎉IS THIS A PLUM? by Dan & Finn Ojari (Amazon / Bookshop)I cannot stop reading this book! This delightfully clever keepsake picture book is full of visual tricks and rhyming reveals to inspire wonder while making you chuckle—brought to life by an Oscar-nominated animator and based on his seven-year-old son’s original idea and drawings! It’s a keepsake, for sure. 🎉MUSIC OF THE BELLS by Anitha Rao-Robinson (Amazon / Bookshop)This is one of the most gorgeous picture books I have ever seen. It’s full of rich color and showcases a beautiful Indian dance. It reminds us to stay true to ourselves and take pride in who we are. Stunning. 🎉DINOS LOVE DONUTS by Ben Okon (Amazon / Bookshop)If you laughed your tricera-tops off at the best-selling Unicorns Love Ice Cream and Monsters Love Brownies, you’ll be jelly-rolling on the floor laughing with Dinos Love Donuts! This is a delightful book that readers will beg to listen to again and again!E224: Unforgettable Verse: MY BROTHER OLIVER by R.L ToalsonOn this episode of the KidLit Love podcast, I’m talking with R.L. Toalson about her newest middle grade novel-in-verse: MY BROTHER OLIVER.This is a beautiful and unforgettable novel-in-verse about a boy struggling with guilt as his family reels from the fallout of his older brother’s extreme depression and tries to hold onto hope. It’s truly stamped on my reading heart forever.Come listen as we talk about Rachel’s overall philosophy on writing for children, her deeply personal connection to the book, the many themes inside the pages and her beautiful hopes for readers. This one is unforgettable.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!MY BROTHER OLIVER by R.L. Toalson (Amazon / Bookshop)Here’s where you can find R.L. Tolason online:Website: https://www.racheltoalson.com/Substack: 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
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  E223: BE YOURSELF AND OTHER BAD ADVICE with Meredith Walker 14.05.2026 21min

  I’m back with another bonus episode of the KidLit Love podcast! I try not to clog your Inbox with more episodes than you can listen to, but I could resist jumping at the chance to talk with Meredith Walker. She’s the co-founder of Smart Girls with Amy Poehler and has just released a book I think everyone needs to read: BE YOURSELF AND OTHER AND OTHER BAD ADVICE. It may be written for teens, but I think it’s a book for everyone, no matter what age. Happy listening!E222: BE YOURSELF AND OTHER BAD ADVICE with Meredith WalkerOn this episode of the KidLit Love podcast, I’m talking with Meredith Walker about her new book for teens: BE YOURSELF AND OTHER BAD ADVICE.In this book, readers learn not just how to be themselves, but how to find their authentic selves. Through personal anecdotes, journaling prompts, and big-sisterly advice, Meredith gives readers the tools to find themselves. This might be written for teens, but I’d argue it’s a book we all need.Come listen as we talk about the Smart Girls foundation Meredith founded with Amy Poehler, the varied chapter titles that invite readers to think for themselves and her hopes that all readers will not only find themselves more interesting, but will enjoy the process of who they are becoming, too.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!BE YOURSELF AND OTHER BAD ADVICE by Meredith Walker (Amazon / Bookshop)Here’s where you can find Meredith online:Website: https://amysmartgirls.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/meredeetch/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
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  E222: Celebrating a Beloved Character: BISCUIT RIDES THE FERRY by Alyssa Satin Capucilli 11.05.2026 28min

  Happy Monday!I’m thrilled to share my conversation with Alyssa Satin Capucilli with you this week! Biscuit is a beloved character for many and we talk about all the things related to this long-standing series in today’s episode. It’s a treat!Keep scrolling to see the new books that caught my attention this week, too. There are A LOT of amazing books celebrating their book birthdays!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:🎉LITTLE HELPER by Regina Linke (Amazon / Bookshop)There’s something about Regina’s books that instantly make me feel centered, focused and calm. The combination of rich, lyrical storytelling and soothing images creates a joyful reading and learning experience. This picture book features an original folktale about a little boy who must use his big imagination to help solve big problems. I chatted with Regina about her earlier release, BIG ENOUGH, if you’d like to listen!🎉AMINA BANANA AND THE FORMULA FOR FAIRNESS by Shifa Saltagi Safadi (Amazon / Bookshop)Are you ready for the next book in the AMINA BANANA series? I am! In this newest book, Amina is ready for the science fair, but everything becomes UNfair when she’s paired with someone unexpected. What formula might help? This continues the delightful series. Here’s a link to the episode I recorded with Shifa if you’d like to learn more about the series and earlier releases!🎉UH-OH, HUGO by Jonathan Stutzman (Amazon / Bookshop)Do you love dogs too? Then you’ll love this adorable pug with an indomitable spirit and a nose for trouble. It’s absolutely delightful!🎉NOTRE-DAME: THE WORLD’S CATHEDRAL by Lynn Curlee (Amazon / Bookshop)This is a stunning, oversized picture book exploring the visual history of Notre-Dame and highlights the burning and reconstruction of the cherished building. It’s a feast for the eyes AND the mind. 🎉THE UNDERWEARWOLF by Gideon Sterer (Amazon / Bookshop)Oh, this book is a true delight and one I laughed out loud reading on more than one page! This wolfish picture book romp follows a kid who finds himself in a hairy situation when he dons a pair of not-so-normal undies under the light of the full moon. You must read this one and prepare for the giggles!🎉THAT WHICH FEEDS US by Keala Kendall (Amazon / Bookshop)Are you ready for a YA supernatural thriller? In this novel, native Hawaiian teen travels to a luxury island resort in search of her missing twin and uncovers the dark side of paradise. It’s a true page-turner!🎉 COLOR ME COUNTRY by Rissi Palmer (Amazon / Bookshop)Multitalented Grammy Award winner Rhiannon Giddens paints women of color up-front and center-stage in this vibrant homage to some of country music’s first and finest. It even features a coloring sheet on the back of the jacket!E222: Celebrating a Beloved Character: BISCUIT RIDES THE FERRY by Alyssa Satin CapucilliOn this episode of the KidLit Love podcast, I’m talking with Alyssa Capucilli about her newest book in her beloved Biscuit series: BISCUIT RIDES THE FERRY.With over 100 books in the BISCUIT series translated into 12 different languages, there’s a BISCUIT book for everyone. In this newest book, Biscuit’s family ferry ride is full of fun surprises aboard a big boat from seagulls, to dolphins, to meeting the captain, and more!Come listen as we talk about the origin story behind the Biscuit series, the unhurried and longform way the stories come to fruition, the delightful way she met her longtime illustrator and her beautiful hopes for readers.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!BISCUIT RIDES THE FERRY by Alyssa Satin Capucilli (Amazon / Bookshop)Here’s where you can find Alyssa online:Website: https://alyssasatincapucilli.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alyssasatincapucilli/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
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  E221: Kindness & Mindfulness: POOCH ON THE LOOSE with Lin Oliver 07.05.2026 42min

  I’m back with another bonus episode of the KidLit Love podcast! This episode truly captures what I think books and reading can do for us: help us feel seen, help us feel better and help us learn how to make life better, too. You’re in for a treat with Lin Oliver!Happy listening!E221: Kindness & Mindfulness: POOCH ON THE LOOSE with Lin OliverOn this episode of the KidLit Love podcast, I’m talking with Lin Oliver about her newest middle grade book: POOCH ON THE LOOSE.It’s the first book released in the After-School Kindness Crew series she’s co-written with Goldie Hawn and explores friendship, community and the power of kindness. It’s full of real-life relationships, hilarious classroom shenanigans and practical tips to support students’ mental health off the page, too.Come listen as we talk about how Lin started her journey in children’s literature from a help wanted posting and over time, has written over 65 books for children AND co-founded the prestigious SCBWI, the ultimate organization for the field of children’s literature. We’ll explore how the new series came to be, talk about the humor and heart found on the pages and uncover the behind-the-scenes magic that makes the book (and the series!) so special.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!POOCH ON THE LOOSE by Goldie Hawn & Lin Oliver (Amazon / Bookshop)Here’s where you can find Lin online:Website: https://www.linoliver.comI’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
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  E220: Safety, Comfort & Fun: BAD BADGER: A FAMILY STORY by Maryrose Wood 04.05.2026 42min

  Happy Monday!It’s the start of a new month, a new season and a whole new set of picture book and middle grade novels to share with you!This week, I’m sharing TWO episode with you. The first is an episode with a treasured author making her second appearance on the podcast (scroll down!) and the second will release on Thursday with an episode introducing a new middle grade series that is not only good for your reading life, but for your actual one, too. Keep scrolling to see the new books that caught my attention this week and then press play on my most recent podcast episode with Maryrose Wood. You’ll leave feeling better than when you started, I promise. Happy listening!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:🎉PIET FINDS A HOME by Carina & Peter Wohlleben (Amazon / Bookshop)Piet the squirrel needs a new home. Peter the forester suggests he move into an old beech tree, but Piet is nervous—the tree is VERY big! As he settles in, he soon finds that his new home is full of surprises: it can drink water with its roots, make sugar from sun, air and water, and sweat through its leaves. Piet learns more and more about his home as the year and seasons pass. Could Piet’s new home be something more? Ah, this book feels like a warm hug. 🎉AYA HAS NEVER SEEN A BEAR by Gerelchimeg Blackcrane (Amazon / Bookshop)This oversized picture book must be read in order to truly understand the quiet magic inside. It’s a tender story about Aya and her grandfather as they take a walk through the forest in the mountains of northern China. You MUST see the end papers!🎉NORTHWOODS LULLABY by Mary Casanova (Amazon / Bookshop)This book is stunning. Lyrical writing with gorgeous collage invites readers to explore the world of nature and discover the unexpected along the way. Caregivers will want to add this one to their bedtime routine. =)🎉INSPIRING STORIES OF SOCCER GREATS by Chris Navalta (Amazon / Bookshop)Get ready for World Cup season with this collection of 12 inspiring stories of soccer’s greatest stars. Readers will learn about the athletes AND the lessons that go beyond the game, too. It’s perfect for the middle grade reader who loves sports!🎉MAMI’S MAGIC WORDS by Kiara Valdez (Amazon / Bookshop)When Karena shares a favorite word from home with her class, she’s told it’s not a real word. How can that be when her mother lovingly whispered ¡Poloché! to her that morning? This beautiful book celebrate the different ways that families keep language alive by bringing their own history and traditions to the table.Safety, Comfort & Fun: BAD BADGER: A FAMILY STORY by Maryrose WoodOn this episode of the KidLit Love podcast, I’m talking with Maryrose Wood about her newest middle grade novel: BAD BADGER: A FAMILY STORY.This book continues the story of Septimus the badger and his friend Gully from BAD BADGER: A LOVE STORY and introduces you to their new family of hatchlings. It’s gentle, heart-warming and affirming and provided me with a sense of safety that I truly relaxed into.Come listen as we talk about the safety, comfort and fun found on the pages of both books, the complexities of friendship and family that readers and their caregivers will likely connect with and Maryrose’s hopes that readers will not only have a rollicking good time, but will feel a balmy respite from our busy world and savor the quiet beauty of existence. It’s a gift that all of us deserve.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!BAD BADGER: A LOVE STORY by Maryrose Wood (Amazon / Bookshop)BAD BADGER: A FAMILY STORY by Maryrose Wood (Amazon / Bookshop)Here’s where you can find Maryrose online:Website: https://www.maryrosewood.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/maryrose.wood/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