The Children's Book Review: Growing Readers Podcast

Join creators Shannon Hale and Dean Hale and illustrator LeUyen Pham as they celebrate 10 years of The Princess in Black series. Discover how a child's simple observation that "princesses don't wear black" inspired a revolutionary series that bridges early readers to chapter books. The trio shares behind-the-scenes stories of their creative process, memorable fan encounters, and how Princess Magnolia has spent a decade showing children they can be both perfectly prim and powerfully brave. With over 5.8 million copies sold worldwide, this beloved series continues to challenge stereotypes while helping young readers discover the joy of reading. Transcription: You can read the transcription on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Children's Book Review⁠⁠⁠ (coming soon) Order Copies: The Princess in Black on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Amazon⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Bookshop.org⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. About the Creators: Shannon Hale and Dean Hale are the award-winning husband-and-wife team behind the Princess in Black series, illustrated by LeUyen Pham. Shannon Hale is also the author of the Newbery Honor Book Princess Academy as well as the New York Times best-selling graphic novels Real Friends, Best Friends, and Friends Forever, illustrated by LeUyen Pham. Shannon Hale and Dean Hale live in Salt Lake City, Utah. LeUyen Pham is the illustrator of the Princess in Black series as well as many other books for children, including Love Is Powerful by Heather Dean Brewer, Pat-a-Cake by Mary Brigid Barrett, God’s Dream by Archbishop Desmond Tutu and Douglas Carlton Abrams, Aunt Mary’s Rose by Douglas Wood, and Real Friends, Best Friends, and Friends Forever by Shannon Hale. LeUyen Pham lives in California. Visit http://www.leuyenpham.com/ --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thechildrensbookreview/support

Join us as Meredith Seacrest Leach discusses her debut picture book "The Make Believers," co-written with her brother Ryan Seacrest. In this heartwarming conversation, Meredith shares how her daughter's boundless imagination and her work with the Ryan Seacrest Foundation inspired this celebration of creative play. She reveals how the book's message—that dreams can flourish with open eyes, not just during sleep—connects to childhood wonder and imagination's healing power in children's hospitals. From reminiscing about her own third-grade writing adventures to collaborating with her famous brother during the pandemic, Meredith offers insights into the creative process and the joy of keeping imagination alive at any age. Parents and caregivers will particularly appreciate her practical advice on fostering creativity and the importance of putting down technology to engage in transformative play with children. Transcription: You can read the transcription on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Children's Book Review⁠⁠⁠ Order Copies: The Make-Believers on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Amazon⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Bookshop.org⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. About the Author: Meredith Seacrest Leach is the executive director and COO of the Ryan Seacrest Foundation. She was a driving force behind the conception and development of the foundation since its inception in 2009. She manages and cultivates relationships with key partners and donors in entertainment, health care, education, and technology while strategizing financial campaigns and programs to help continuously advance the organization and the fourteen Seacrest Studios in leading pediatric hospitals nationwide. Before overseeing the foundation, Meredith was the director of creative affairs at Reveille, now known as the production company Endemol Shine North America. Some programming she was responsible for included Nashville Star, MasterChef, and The Buried Life. She also worked in hospitality public relations, managing several luxury resort accounts, and as the manager of communications at Entertainment Tonight and The Insider, where she oversaw national press for two top entertainment news programs. The Make-Believers is her first picture book. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thechildrensbookreview/support

Award-winning children's author Mac Barnett joins us to discuss his heartwarming new picture book Santa's First Christmas, beautifully illustrated by Sydney Smith. In this fresh take on holiday storytelling, Santa experiences the magic of Christmas Day for the very first time, thanks to his thoughtful elves. Mac shares insights into the creative process and his collaboration with acclaimed illustrator Sydney Smith and reflects on how Christmas books create special yearly traditions for families. From the warmth of Christmas lights to sneaking tastes of cookie icing, discover how this charming story turns the traditional Santa narrative on its head while celebrating the joy of both giving and receiving during the holiday season. Transcription: You can read the transcription on ⁠⁠⁠⁠The Children's Book Review⁠⁠. Order Copies: Santa's First Christmas on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Amazon⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Bookshop.org⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. About the Author: Mac Barnett is the New York Times bestselling author of many picture books, including the New York Times bestseller The Wolf, the Duck, and the Mouse; the Caldecott Honor Book and E.B. White Read-Aloud Award winner Sam and Dave Dig a Hole; and the Caldecott Honor Book and Boston Globe-Horn Book Award winner Extra Yarn. He also coauthors the bestselling Terrible Two series with Jory John. Mac lives in Oakland, California. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thechildrensbookreview/support

In this episode of The Growing Readers Podcast, host Bianca Schulze sits down with author Holly Peppe to discuss her children's book, Sophie and the Swans. Peppe shares her experiences as a teacher and writer, her insights on addressing bullying, and her reflections on the power of kindness in children's literature. Listeners will gain insight into: Holly Peppe's journey from teacher to children's book author The inspiration behind Sophie and the Swans and its real-life setting How the book addresses bullying and promotes kindness The importance of role models in children's literature Peppe's approach to writing and her daily journaling practice The impact of personal experiences on understanding children's behavior This episode is a must-listen for parents, educators, and anyone interested in children's literature, bullying prevention, and the power of kindness. Join us for an inspiring conversation about the impact of children's books, the importance of addressing bullying, and the enduring power of kindness to overcome challenges. Transcription: You can read the transcription on ⁠⁠⁠The Children's Book Review⁠. Order Copies: Sophie and the Swans on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Amazon⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Bookshop.org⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. About the Author: Holly Peppe is an author and educator with a diverse teaching career spanning from elementary music to college-level literature. She is the author of Sophie and the Swans and co-author of Touch the Sky: My Solo Flight Around the World with Barrington Irving. Peppe's writing focuses on important themes such as kindness, empathy, and bullying prevention. Be sure to explore the heartwarming story and valuable lessons on kindness and bullying prevention in Sophie and the Swans. This book offers an engaging narrative and important insights for young readers, parents, and educators alike. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thechildrensbookreview/support

In this episode of The Growing Readers Podcast, host Bianca Schulze sits down with Holocaust survivor and renowned psychologist Dr. Edith Eger to discuss her young adult memoir, The Ballerina of Auschwitz. Dr. Eger, joined by her grandson Jordan Engle, shares her experiences, insights, and reflections on survival, healing, and the power of choice, offering profound wisdom that resonates across generations. Listeners will gain insight into: Dr. Eger's experiences as a Jewish teenager in Hungary during World War II The role of hope, resilience, and sisterhood in surviving Auschwitz How dance and movement helped Dr. Eger through her darkest times The importance of forgiveness and not being defined by past trauma Dr. Eger's approach to psychology and healing, influenced by her experiences The power of choice in shaping our lives and responses to adversity This episode is a must-listen for readers of all ages, educators, and anyone interested in history, psychology, and the triumph of the human spirit. Join us for an inspiring conversation about hope, resilience, and the enduring power of the human spirit to overcome even the darkest circumstances. Transcription: You can read the transcription on ⁠⁠⁠The Children's Book Review⁠. Order Copies: The Ballerina of Auschwitz on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Amazon⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Bookshop.org⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Resources: Visit Dr. Edith Eger online: ⁠https://dreditheger.com/ Edith Eger is an eminent psychologist and one of the few remaining Holocaust survivors old enough to remember life in the camps. A colleague of Viktor Frankl, Dr. Edith Eger has worked with veterans, military personnel, and victims of physical and mental trauma. She lives in La Jolla, California, and is the author of the bestselling and award-winning books The Choice and The Gift. Be sure to explore the powerful message of hope and resilience in The Ballerina of Auschwitz, a young adult adaptation of Dr. Edith Eger's bestselling memoir The Choice. This book offers invaluable lessons on survival, healing, and the power of choice for readers of all ages. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thechildrensbookreview/support

In this episode of The Growing Readers Podcast, host Bianca Schulze sits down with beloved author Kate DiCamillo to discuss her latest works, including the early reader trilogy beginning with Orris and Timble: The Beginning and the second book in The Norendy Tales, The Hotel Balzaar. Kate shares her creative process, inspirations, and reflections on storytelling, offering insight into the themes and craft behind her emotionally resonant books. Listeners will gain insight into: Kate's approach to writing for different age groups and formats The exploration of themes like loneliness, connection, and making good choices in her stories The collaborative process with illustrators and editors in bringing books to life How personal experiences and observations influence her storytelling The importance of imperfection and embracing life's "crooked lines" in both writing and living This episode is a must-listen for fans of Kate DiCamillo's work, aspiring writers, and anyone interested in children's literature and the craft of storytelling. Join us for an inspiring conversation about finding light in stories, the power of friendship, and the enduring impact of children's literature. Transcription: You can read the transcription on ⁠⁠The Children's Book Review. Order Copies:Orris and Timble: The Beginning on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Amazon⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Bookshop.org⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. The Hotel Balzaar on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Amazon⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Bookshop.org⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Resources: Visit Kate DiCamillo online: https://www.katedicamillo.com/ Book Spotlight: Be sure to embark on a magical adventure to celebrate the release of Kelcie Murphy and the Race for the Reaper’s Key, the thrilling final installment in the Academy for the Unbreakable Arts series by Erika Lewis! For more information, visit https://www.erikalewis.com/. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thechildrensbookreview/support

In this episode of The Growing Readers Podcast, host Bianca Schulze sits down with acclaimed author John Schu to discuss his powerful novel in verse, Louder Than Hunger. John shares his deeply personal journey of transforming his own experiences with anorexia nervosa, depression, and anxiety into Jake's story, offering insight into the creative process behind this emotionally charged book. Listeners will gain insight into: John's approach to writing about sensitive topics for young readers The balance between authenticity and fiction in crafting a story based on personal experiences The importance of self-expression and support systems in mental health journeys How novels in verse can provide a unique reading experience for middle-grade audiences John also gives a behind-the-scenes look at his writing process, including his use of post-it note mantras and the challenge of deciding which personal experiences to include or fictionalize. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in middle-grade literature, mental health representation in books, or the healing power of storytelling. Join us for an inspiring conversation about hope, resilience, and the transformative power of sharing our stories. Transcription: You can read the transcription on ⁠The Children's Book Review⁠. Order Copies: Louder Than Hunger on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Amazon⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Bookshop.org⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Resources: Visit John Schu online: https://www.johnschu.com/ Anxiety and Depression Association of America: https://adaa.org International OCD Foundation: https://kids.iocdf.org National Alliance for Eating Disorders: https://www.allianceforeatingdisorders.com/ National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders: https://anad.org/ --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thechildrensbookreview/support

In this episode of The Growing Readers Podcast, host Bianca Schulze sits down with award-winning children's author and illustrator Loren Long to discuss his latest book, The Yellow Bus. Loren shares his unique approach to crafting this touching story, including his inspiration from a real abandoned bus, his process of creating a 3D model for illustration reference, and his dedication to handcrafted artwork using charcoal and acrylic paint. Listeners will gain insight into: Loren's journey from editorial illustration to children's book creation The importance of finding wonder in everyday objects and experiences How stories about change and resilience can empower young readers The collaborative process between author, illustrator, and editorial team in picture book creation Loren also gives a behind-the-scenes look at his artistic process, including the unexpected inclusion of his dog's hair in the artwork and his decision to use a primarily black-and-white palette to make the yellow bus stand out. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in children's literature, illustration techniques, or the art of storytelling. Join us for an inspiring conversation about creating emotionally resonant picture books and the power of finding joy in unexpected places. Transcription: You can read the transcription on The Children's Book Review. Order Copies: The Yellow Bus on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Amazon⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Bookshop.org⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Resources: Visit Loren Long online: https://lorenlong.com/ View the 3D model video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PcyTiM_pYxs --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thechildrensbookreview/support

In this episode of The Growing Readers podcast, host Bianca Schulze sits down with award-winning children's author Beth Anderson to discuss her latest book, Thomas Jefferson's Battle for Science: Bias, Truth, and a Mighty Moose. Beth shares her unique approach to crafting engaging nonfiction, including her process of "mining for the heart of the story" and her dedication to thorough research and meticulous revision. Listeners will gain insight into: Beth's writing journey and her passion for bringing lesser-known historical events to life The importance of critical thinking and questioning in children's literature How stories from the past can empower young readers The collaborative process between author and illustrator in picture book creation Beth also gives a sneak peek into her upcoming titles, including stories about America's first female detective and a teenage sculptor who created an iconic statue of Abraham Lincoln. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in children's literature, history, or the art of storytelling. Join us for an inspiring conversation about widening children's worlds through compelling nonfiction and the power of connecting readers to the past. Transcription: You can read the transcription on The Children's Book Review (coming soon). Order Copies: Thomas Jefferson's Battle for Science: Bias, Truth, and a Mighty Moose on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Amazon⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Bookshop.org⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Resources: Visit Beth Anderson online: https://bethandersonwriter.com/ --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thechildrensbookreview/support

Join us for an enlightening conversation with Nyasha Williams and Kenda Bell-Spruill, co-authors of Saturday Magic: A Hoodoo Story (Running Press Kids). This mother-in-love and daughter-in-love duo discuss their collaboration on this groundbreaking picture book that introduces young readers to African diasporic spiritual practices and ancestral connections. Discover the inspiration behind their story, the importance of representation in children's literature, and how Saturday Magic aims to foster pride in cultural heritage. The authors share personal insights into their creative process, the significance of dreams in African American culture, and their hopes for expanding diverse narratives in children's media. This episode offers a deep dive into the power of intergenerational storytelling and the magic of connecting with one's ancestors, providing valuable perspectives for parents, educators, and anyone interested in diverse children's literature. Transcription: You can read the transcription on The Children's Book Review. Order Copies: Saturday Magic on ⁠⁠⁠⁠Amazon⁠⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠⁠Bookshop.org⁠⁠⁠⁠. Resources: Visit Nyasha Williams online: https://www.nyashawilliams.online Visit Kenda Bell online: https://pensight.com/x/kendabell Subscribe to Nyasha's Substack: https://nyashawilliams.substack.com/ Support Nyasha's vision for Fire + Honey Press: https://www.gofundme.com/f/revolutionizing-publishing-fire-honey-press How Watermelons Became a Racist Trope: https://nyashawilliams.substack.com/p/how-watermelons-became-a-racist-trope Grandma Rose's Watermelon Salad: https://nyashawilliams.substack.com/p/grandma-roses-watermelon-salad Nyasha Williams and Kenda Bell-Spruill Talk About: The inspiration behind writing Saturday Magic: A Hoodoo Story The importance of representation in children's literature Kenda and Nyasha's experiences as readers and how it shaped their writing Introduction to Hoodoo practices and African ancestral traditions The significance of dreams in African American culture and spirituality How to connect with ancestors and build stronger ancestral relationships Critique of current representation of Black characters in Disney films and animation The process of collaborating as mother-in-law and daughter-in-law Nyasha's new publishing company, Fire + Honey Press, and its mission How Saturday Magic: A Hoodoo Story can foster pride and connection to ancestral roots for young Black readers --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thechildrensbookreview/support