Dirty Tricks, Honest Stories, and the Future of Family Reading

In this captivating episode of Reading with Your Kids, host Jed Doherty takes listeners on an extraordinary journey through the world of children's literature, featuring two remarkable guests who are transforming how we think about books, storytelling, and early literacy. First, listeners are introduced to author and illustrator Jed Alexander, whose latest middle-grade novel "The Black Market" offers a unique and thrilling narrative. Alexander reveals the intricate process of character development, sharing how characters often surprise authors by taking on lives of their own. His passion for storytelling shines through as he discusses creating compelling narratives that engage young readers, blending humor and imagination. The conversation delves into Alexander's creative process, exploring how illustrations and stories intertwine. His experience with wordless picture books demonstrates the power of visual storytelling, showing how images can communicate complex emotions and narratives without a single word. The episode then shifts to an inspiring discussion with Dr. Lynette Fraga, the new CEO of Reach Out and Read. She passionately explains how their program transforms pediatric visits into opportunities for literacy and connection. Dr. Fraga emphasizes that reading begins at birth, highlighting the critical role of early literacy in child development. Key insights include the importance of diverse, multilingual books that reflect children's experiences and the neurological benefits of reading from infancy. Dr. Fraga's vision for Reach Out and Read focuses on expanding access, ensuring equity, and creating sustainable literacy programs across communities. For parents, educators, and book lovers, this episode is a treasure trove of inspiration. It reminds us that reading is more than just decoding words—it's about building relationships, sparking imagination, and opening worlds of possibility for children. Whether you're a parent looking to enhance your child's reading experience or simply passionate about children's literature, this episode offers valuable insights and heartwarming stories that celebrate the magic of books. Click here to visit our website – www.ReadingWithYourKids.com Follow Us On Social Media Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/readingwithyourkids Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/readingwithyourkids/ X - https://x.com/jedliemagic LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/reading-with-your-kids-podcast/ Please consider leaving a review of this episode and the podcast on whatever app you are listening on, it really helps!

In this captivating episode of Reading with Your Kids, host Jed Doherty explores two incredible children's books that spark imagination and teach valuable life lessons. First, he sits down with author Rachel Ignotofsky to discuss her groundbreaking book "Dinosaurs," a stunning journey through 4.5 billion years of Earth's history. Ignotofsky reveals the magic behind her meticulously crafted book, sharing insights into the intricate cover design and illustrations that bring prehistoric creatures to life. From tiny trilobites to massive dinosaurs, the book offers a comprehensive look at evolution that will fascinate both children and adults. The author's passion shines through as she explains how each illustration is carefully based on real fossil evidence, creating an educational experience that's both entertaining and scientifically accurate. The episode then shifts to a discussion with Flora Agbaje about her book "Play Nice, You Don't Have to Fight," which tackles the critical issue of sharing and social skills in childhood. As an experienced educator, Agbaje provides unique insights into how children learn to interact, emphasizing the importance of friendship and fun as natural behavioral reinforcers. Both authors highlight the challenges of modern parenting, particularly the impact of technology on children's social interactions. They argue for the importance of hands-on learning, sharing, and imagination in child development. Click here to visit our website – www.ReadingWithYourKids.com Follow Us On Social Media Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/readingwithyourkids Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/readingwithyourkids/ X - https://x.com/jedliemagic LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/reading-with-your-kids-podcast/ Please consider leaving a review of this episode and the podcast on whatever app you are listening on, it really helps!  

In this heartwarming episode of Reading with Your Kids, host Jed Doherty explores the transformative power of children's literature and communication with two remarkable author teams who are making a difference in young lives. First, speech pathologists Kathy Bruner and Sharilyn Gugliotta share their innovative children's books "Hope the Butterfly Wants to Go" and "Hank the Slug Wants to Eat" from their Bug Huggables series. These books aren't just adorable stories—they're carefully crafted tools designed to help children develop language skills. By using repetitive, high-frequency words and engaging illustrations, these authors create resources that help parents support early speech development. The conversation then shifts to an equally powerful narrative with Veronica DeStefano, who wrote "Lucy Lemon and the Brave Bubbles" about her daughter's journey with selective mutism. This touching story reveals how creative approaches can help children overcome communication challenges. DeStefano's book provides insight into a often-misunderstood condition, showing how understanding and supportive strategies can help children build confidence. Both segments highlight critical insights for parents and educators:     Early intervention is key in speech and communication development     Children's books can be powerful educational tools     Every child's communication journey is unique     Patience, understanding, and creative approaches make a significant difference The episode offers practical advice for parents concerned about their child's speech development, including:     Recognizing potential speech delays     Understanding early communication milestones     Finding resources and support for children with communication challenges Whether you're a parent, educator, or simply interested in child development, this episode provides valuable insights into helping children find their voice—literally and metaphorically. Click here to visit our website – www.ReadingWithYourKids.com Follow Us On Social Media Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/readingwithyourkids Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/readingwithyourkids/ X - https://x.com/jedliemagic LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/reading-with-your-kids-podcast/ Please consider leaving a review of this episode and the podcast on whatever app you are listening on, it really helps!

In this compelling episode of Reading with Your Kids, host Jed Doherty explores two remarkable stories of human experience through children's literature, featuring authors Isabella Kung and Anesa Kajtazovic. First, Isabella Kung takes listeners behind the scenes of her picture book "Nunu in the Sea", revealing a deeply personal journey of emotional exploration. Kung shares how a meditation class sparked a narrative about a child's inner emotional landscape, transforming her own childhood experiences into a beautifully illustrated story. As an illustrator-turned-author, she discusses the delicate balance of visual storytelling, explaining how sparse text can help children understand and process complex feelings. Immediately following Kung's segment, the podcast shifts to an equally powerful conversation with Anesa Kajtazovic, who shares her profound refugee experience through her children's book. Kajtazovic candidly discusses her childhood during the Bosnian War, offering listeners a heart-wrenching yet hopeful perspective on displacement. Her book aims to humanize the refugee experience, highlighting that 43 million refugees worldwide are ordinary people with extraordinary resilience. Both authors demonstrate the transformative power of children's literature, using their personal experiences to create narratives that educate, inspire, and build empathy. Kung's exploration of emotional landscapes complements Kajtazovic's real-world narrative of survival, offering young readers nuanced understanding of human experiences. Parents and educators will find inspiration in these authors' approaches to discussing complex topics with children. Whether navigating emotional journeys or understanding global humanitarian challenges, these books provide valuable tools for meaningful conversations. For those interested in children's literature, creative processes, or stories of human resilience, this episode of Reading with Your Kids offers an unforgettable listening experience. Listeners will come away with a deeper appreciation for the art of storytelling and the incredible stories behind children's books. Click here to visit our website – www.ReadingWithYourKids.com Follow Us On Social Media Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/readingwithyourkids Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/readingwithyourkids/ X - https://x.com/jedliemagic LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/reading-with-your-kids-podcast/ Please consider leaving a review of this episode and the podcast on whatever app you are listening on, it really helps!

Get ready for an exciting journey through the magical world of children's books, education, and creativity! In this episode of Reading with Your Kids, host Jed Doherty explores fascinating conversations with three incredible guests who are transforming how children learn and experience stories. First up, Dr. Audrey Barbakoff introduces "Mazel Toes," a delightful board book that celebrates baby love through the expressive world of Yiddish language. She shares how diverse books can build empathy and cultural understanding, even for the tiniest readers. Her passion for libraries shines through as she discusses the critical role these community spaces play in children's education and development. Next, author Tracy Blom takes us into the world of "Wonderland's Friends," a middle-grade novel series inspired by a dream about a magical magnifying glass. Tracy reveals her writing process, discussing how she transformed a simple picture book concept into a rich, engaging story about a young girl named Lisa who loves bugs. Her commitment to mentoring other authors adds another layer of inspiration to her creative journey. The episode wraps up with Kelsey Cook, founder of Learning with Kelsey, who created an innovative monthly learning box service for parents of young children. Born during the COVID-19 pandemic, her boxes provide carefully curated educational activities for children aged 2-5, helping parents become their child's first and most important teacher. What makes this episode special is the shared passion these guests have for education, storytelling, and child development. Whether it's through books, activities, or creative learning experiences, they're all committed to making learning fun, engaging, and meaningful. Parents, educators, and book lovers will find plenty of inspiration in this episode. It's a reminder that learning can be a joyful, creative adventure that connects families and opens up new worlds of imagination and understanding. Click here to visit our website – www.ReadingWithYourKids.com Follow Us On Social Media Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/readingwithyourkids Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/readingwithyourkids/ X - https://x.com/jedliemagic LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/reading-with-your-kids-podcast/ Please consider leaving a review of this episode and the podcast on whatever app you are listening on, it really helps!  

Ever wondered why you turn into a grumpy monster when you're hungry? Katherine Pryor's hilarious new children's book "Attack of the Hangries" explores exactly that! In this fun-filled episode of Reading with Your Kids, host Jed Doherty chats with Pryor about the science behind being "hangry" and how she's turned this relatable experience into a laugh-out-loud picture book for kids. Pryor reveals that "hangry" isn't just a made-up word - it was officially added to the Oxford English Dictionary in 2018. The book explains how dropping blood sugar levels trigger stress hormones like adrenaline and cortisol, causing those infamous mood swings. But here's the twist: Pryor transforms this scientific concept into adorable monsters that kids will love! In the same episode, Jed also speaks with Cristina Garcia, a teacher at a Department of Defense school in Germany, about her debut children's book "The Pesky Problem." Garcia's charming story follows a group of pumpkins and gourds dealing with pesky crows, teaching children valuable lessons about teamwork and collaboration. Drawing from her Romanian roots and experiences working on her grandparents' farm, Garcia crafted a delightful tale that resonates with young readers. Garcia shared her inspiration for the book, which came from a Halloween costume shopping trip, and discussed her future writing projects, including a touching story about a goose with a missing webbed foot. Her background as an educator shines through in her approach to storytelling, focusing on social-emotional learning and creating engaging narratives for children. As a mother of eight-year-old twins and an experienced children's author, Pryor knows how to make learning fun. She's written multiple books about science and nature, including a fascinating book about monarch butterfly migration. Her goal? Make complex topics accessible and enjoyable for kids. Parents and educators will love how "Attack of the Hangries" tackles a real-life issue with humor and heart. It's a perfect read for families looking to understand nutrition, emotions, and teamwork - all while having a great time together. Want to learn more? Check out Katherine Pryor's website and grab a copy of this must-read picture book! Click here to visit our website – www.ReadingWithYourKids.com Follow Us On Social Media Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/readingwithyourkids Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/readingwithyourkids/ X - https://x.com/jedliemagic LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/reading-with-your-kids-podcast/ Please consider leaving a review of this episode and the podcast on whatever app you are listening on, it really helps!

In this enchanting episode of Reading with Your Kids, host Jed Doherty takes listeners on a captivating journey with two extraordinary storytellers who are reimagining how children connect with the world around them. First, meet Susie Spikol, author of "The Book of Fairies," a delightful exploration of magical beings that bridges traditional mythology and childhood imagination. Spikol shares how her lifelong fascination with fairies began in childhood, inspiring her to create a unique field guide that encourages families to explore nature together. Her book features over 30 different fairies from earth, air, fire, and water realms, inviting children to discover the magic hiding in their own backyards. The conversation then shifts to Rusty Austin, a former reality TV producer turned children's poet, who has found a new passion in creating engaging, educational poetry about animals. His book "An Awesome Bird, the Pelican" emerged from a remarkable collaboration with middle school students who not only illustrated the book but became active participants in the creative process. Both authors share a profound belief in the power of curiosity, imagination, and outdoor exploration. They emphasize how spending time in nature can benefit children's development, from reducing stress to improving cognitive skills and fostering a deeper connection with the world. The episode is a delightful reminder that learning can be magical, playful, and deeply engaging. Whether it's searching for fairies, learning about unique animal behaviors, or simply exploring the world with an open mind, these storytellers demonstrate how literature can spark wonder and curiosity in young minds. Parents and educators will find inspiration in their approach to storytelling, which seamlessly blends education, imagination, and a sense of adventure. It's a must-listen for anyone who believes in the transformative power of stories and the importance of nurturing children's natural sense of wonder. Click here to visit our website – www.ReadingWithYourKids.com Follow Us On Social Media Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/readingwithyourkids Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/readingwithyourkids/ X - https://x.com/jedliemagic LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/reading-with-your-kids-podcast/ Please consider leaving a review of this episode and the podcast on whatever app you are listening on, it really helps!

In this captivating episode of Reading with Your Kids, host Jed Doherty sits down with sisters Beth and Kathleen Rooney to discuss their debut picture book, "Leaf Town Forever" - a remarkable story born from the unexpected creativity of children during the COVID-19 pandemic. The book originated from a fascinating real-life scenario at a Montessori school, where children, required to stay socially distanced, invented an entire civilization using autumn leaves. This ingenious play became the inspiration for a unique picture book that captures the resilience and imagination of children during challenging times. What makes "Leaf Town Forever" truly special is its innovative storytelling approach. The Rooney sisters chose to write the entire book in haiku, a poetic form consisting of just 17 syllables. This creative decision not only condensed their story but also beautifully captured the seasonal transitions experienced by the children in their narrative. The collaborative process between Beth, a photojournalist, and Kathleen, an established author, was remarkably smooth. They described their writing method as a playful "volley" reminiscent of their high school badminton days, with each sister contributing and refining the text. Their journey wasn't without challenges. Working with illustrator Betsy Bowen required patience, with the entire process from manuscript to published book taking nearly two years. However, the result was a stunning visual representation of their story that brought tears to their eyes. "Leaf Town Forever" is more than just a children's book - it's a testament to human creativity, adaptability, and the power of imaginative play. It shows how children can transform limitations into opportunities for connection and storytelling. Parents and educators will find this book not just entertaining, but also a powerful conversation starter about community, resilience, and finding joy in unexpected places. We also have a listen back to a conversation we had with Janice Milusich about her book Be Careful What Your Hear.  Click here to visit our website – www.ReadingWithYourKids.com Follow Us On Social Media Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/readingwithyourkids Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/readingwithyourkids/ X - https://x.com/jedliemagic LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/reading-with-your-kids-podcast/ Please consider leaving a review of this episode and the podcast on whatever app you are listening on, it really helps!

Join host Jed Doherty as he explores two remarkable children's books that prove storytelling is about much more than just words on a page. In this heartwarming episode, we meet two incredible authors who transform personal experiences into powerful narratives that educate, inspire, and connect families. First, meet Michelle Krumenacher, author of "Rocky's Courageous Rescue," a delightful picture book born from a family adventure in Kenya. While exploring Lake Nakuru, Michelle's son discovered rock hyraxes - adorable creatures most people have never heard of. What started as a bedtime story quickly became a published book that teaches children about courage, resilience, and embracing their unique qualities. Michelle's journey is more than just a publishing success story. Having lived in Burundi, one of the world's poorest countries, she and her family now work with refugees in Oklahoma, teaching English and spreading compassion. Her book reflects this spirit of understanding and connection. Next, Victoria Smith shares "Liliana's Match: Finding Bella," a touching story about a young girl with ADHD and her supportive canine companion. Inspired by her daughter's beloved beagle, Victoria crafted a narrative that helps children feel seen and understood. The book explores how animals can support kids with ADHD and anxiety, promoting empathy and awareness. Both authors demonstrate the incredible power of storytelling. They show how personal experiences, family support, and a commitment to understanding others can create meaningful children's literature. Their books aren't just entertainment - they're tools for learning, growing, and connecting. Whether you're a parent, educator, or simply someone who loves a good story, this episode offers inspiration and hope. It reminds us that every story matters, and sometimes the most powerful narratives come from the most unexpected places. Tune in to discover how these authors are changing the world, one page at a time. Click here to visit our website – www.ReadingWithYourKids.com Follow Us On Social Media Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/readingwithyourkids Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/readingwithyourkids/ X - https://x.com/jedliemagic LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/reading-with-your-kids-podcast/ Please consider leaving a review of this episode and the podcast on whatever app you are listening on, it really helps!

In this powerful episode of Reading with Your Kids, host Jed Doherty explores two remarkable stories of resilience, hope, and personal growth that will inspire parents and children alike. First, Paula Schneider, CEO of Susan G. Komen and breast cancer survivor, shares her deeply moving journey of creating "Love Stays Strong," a children's book designed to help families navigate serious illness conversations. Drawing from her personal experience battling triple-negative breast cancer, Schneider developed a compassionate tool to help parents communicate difficult health challenges to their children. Her book uses metaphorical imagery of seasonal changes and supportive animal communities to create a gentle, reassuring approach to discussing serious medical conditions. The episode then shifts to the inspiring story of Mychal Conley Jr., a young entrepreneur who refused to let a teacher's discouraging words limit his dreams. After being told that becoming a CEO was "unrealistic," Mychal transformed that negative experience into a multimedia mission. At just 19, he's launched a podcast interviewing business leaders, created a magazine connecting current and future entrepreneurs, and published "I Am a CEO: Realistic," a book encouraging young people to pursue their ambitions. Both stories share a common thread: the importance of believing in oneself and supporting children's dreams. Mychal's father, Mychall Sr., emphasizes the critical role parents play in "pumping life" into their children's aspirations, while Schneider highlights the power of open, honest communication during challenging times. Listeners will find hope, practical advice, and inspiration in these narratives. Whether facing health challenges or entrepreneurial dreams, the message is clear: with support, resilience, and belief in oneself, seemingly impossible goals can become reality. Click here to visit our website – www.ReadingWithYourKids.com Follow Us On Social Media Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/readingwithyourkids Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/readingwithyourkids/ X - https://x.com/jedliemagic LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/reading-with-your-kids-podcast/ Please consider leaving a review of this episode and the podcast on whatever app you are listening on, it really helps!