Drawing Our Difficulties: David Soren on Turning Pain into Characters

In this heartfelt episode, Jed welcomes back filmmaker and author David Soren to celebrate Visible: The Sort of True Story of a Not So Hidden Disease, the powerful follow-up to his middle grade novel Invisible. Drawing from his own experience growing up with Crohn's disease, David shares how his fictional stand-in, JJ Sugar, navigates life with his biker-beast disease, Norm, and how their relationship slowly shifts from fear and resentment toward understanding and even a kind of friendship. David and Jed talk about the many kids living with hidden diseases—conditions like Crohn's, diabetes, and other invisible illnesses that don't show on the outside but shape a child's daily life. David describes emotional school visits and a moving moment at Camp Oasis, where a young camper asked, "What if I like my disease?"—a question that perfectly captures the heart of these books. The conversation also explores parental illness through David's father's experience with throat cancer, and how families can talk honestly with kids while modeling resilience and self-advocacy. Along the way, David reflects on turning pain into story, the joy of creating Norm, and the hope that Invisible and Visible will help kids and families feel seen, understood, and a little less alone.  We close the show by welcoming Christal M Cherry to celebrate her picture book Mac & Cheese, Being Different Is OK. In this wonderful story we meet Mac, a unique kid who is ready to make new friends! But when he tries to play with the other kids, they are rude and tease him. Mac is devastated until he finds a new friend that is a little different too.

In this heartfelt episode of the Reading With Your Kids podcast, Jed welcomes Daria, musician, teaching artist, and author of the joyful new picture book Cicada Sing Along. Drawing on decades of performing in schools, Daria and Jed celebrate the magic that happens when kids aren't just sitting and listening, but making music together—banging on drums, buzzing like cicadas, and discovering instruments from around the world. Daria shares how the so‑called "cicada apocalypse" inspired her to turn fear and "Ew, bugs!" into curiosity and delight. In Cicada Sing Along, kids learn real cicada facts while buzzing a silly, contagious chorus—often, the worse they sing it, the more fun it is. She talks about "stealth education," weaving science, rhythm, and literacy into a hoot‑and‑a‑half read‑aloud that teachers and music educators can use to get every child participating. The conversation goes deeper into world music, indigenous cultures, and bilingual learning. Daria describes learning songs directly from communities in Peru and beyond, how languages like Quechua view everything as alive and in motion, and why preserving languages and stories is essential to a whole and healthy humanity. Both she and Jed return again and again to a core belief: if kids are having fun, they're learning—and feeling seen. In the final segment, Jed talks with author and reading specialist Danielle LaRosa about her tender picture book I Love You So, a love letter to her graduating son and a powerful reminder of how daily reading, connection, and shared stories shape kids' futures long after they leave home.

In this episode of the Reading With Your Kids podcast, Jed welcomes two inspiring picture book creators who are helping families nurture curiosity, confidence, and connection. First, Jed chats with Leah Wolf Hurst, an occupational therapist, yoga teacher, personal trainer, ergonomist, and mindfulness coach known as "The Wolf of Wellness." Leah introduces her picture book "Bob's Donuts for Breakfast," a sensory-rich love letter to San Francisco that follows a carefree dog and an anxious squirrel on a delicious adventure through iconic city landmarks. Leah explains how these two characters represent opposing forces inside all of us—impulse and caution—and how their journey invites families to notice the extraordinary in everyday life. She and Jed dive into themes of curiosity, presence, nervous system health, and screen time, especially in the age of AI, and how picture books can gently teach mindfulness without ever using the word. Then Jed is joined by Jody Glazer Tob, author of the debut picture book "Me and Marta and the Magic Shoes," inspired by her own struggles being told she was "too small" to dance. Jody shares how returning to salsa dance in Brooklyn as an adult, with a supportive teacher and friend, completely changed her story—and why she felt obligated to pass that message on to kids. She talks about working with her 83-year-old dad as the book's illustrator, the joy of seeing a child discover her book in a store, and the power of kindness, perseverance, and the arts. Jody also offers down-to-earth advice for debut and aspiring authors on marketing, community, and treating your book like a small business.

In this lively episode of the Reading With Your Kids Podcast, Jed welcomes two wonderful guests whose picture books help kids feel seen, brave, and deeply connected to the world around them. First, Jed chats with Jalpa Vaidya Patel, licensed social worker and author of "Wizzy: The Worldly Tree: A Tale of Cultural Curiosity." Jalpa shares how her background in social work and Native American studies shaped a gentle new way to talk about culture with kids. Instead of starting with "we're all different," Wizzy begins with the truth that we're all interconnected and that every family has a story rooted in the land. Jalpa explains how cultural curiosity—asking "What's your family story?" instead of "Where are you from?"—can build belonging and naturally reduce prejudice. She and Jed swap family stories, DNA surprises, and powerful examples of how relationships across cultures change the way kids see the world. Then Jed is joined by Mallory J. Stevens, creator of "The Adventures of Clive and Sydney: The Dancing Armadillos." Mallory introduces listeners to Clive, Sydney, and their feline friend Nanushka, performers at the Pine Tree Forest Theater. When Nanushka goes missing before a big show, the armadillos must find the courage to dance onstage alone and then venture into the forest to search for their friend. Mallory describes how her background in banking, corporate communications, and conflict resolution led her to write fun, music-filled stories that also teach friendship, empathy, problem-solving, and resilience. She even shares how the series inspired original songs—like "Beetles and Worms" and the award-winning "Do the Dillo"—and her hopes for an animated series and school performances.

In this fun, fast-moving episode of Reading With Your Kids, we're heading to Eternia—by way of your family's favorite reading chair. Jed welcomes syndicated cartoonists Stephan Pastis and Will Henry to celebrate their hilarious new illustrated middle grade novel, The Adventures of He‑Man and Porter #1: Skeletor Ate My Homework. Stephan shares how Porter Avery's obsession with Masters of the Universe action figures creates real trouble both at home and in Eternia—especially when Porter's dad confiscates the Power Sword and He‑Man suddenly loses his in the other world. Stephan and Will talk about what it's like to collaborate when both are used to doing everything themselves, from writing to drawing. They dive into the challenges of humor, the near-impossible odds of becoming one of only about 200 syndicated cartoonists in the U.S., why bikes and Battle Cat are so hard to draw, and how comics can be a lifeline for reluctant readers. Then we switch gears and welcome back Adina Oberman to celebrate her joyful board book H Is for Hanukkah: A Festival of Lights ABC Primer. Adina talks about weaving in Jewish traditions from around the world, why board books are powerful "mirrors and windows" for little ones, and how play-based, shared reading in early childhood lays the foundation for a lifetime of learning and empathy.

On this episode of Reading With Your Kids, Jed welcomes two sets of guests whose books highlight just how powerful stories can be—for thrills, for connection, and for healing. First, Jed chats with Marissa Meyer and Tamara Moss, co-authors of the YA murder mystery The Escape Game. Set on a reality TV escape-room competition, the book follows Sierra, returning to the show where her sister Alicia was murdered—determined to unmask the real killer. Marissa and Tamara share how the idea was born from an art-heist escape room, how their 20-year friendship began with Sailor Moon fan fiction, and how writing across continents turned into a "24/7" drafting process. They talk about why teens—especially girls—are drawn to dark, twisty stories, the joy and challenge of co-writing, found family dynamics, and weaving humor and puzzles into a high-stakes mystery that keeps most readers guessing wrong. In the second half, Jed welcomes debut picture book author and longtime teacher Dina Hardt to celebrate Catch of the Day. Inspired by a photo of her brother fishing, the story was first written over 20 years ago and lovingly revised after her brother Anthony's passing. Dina describes how bringing the story back became part of her healing, seeing her brother's spirit in both words and illustrations. She reflects on the bond between grandparents and grandchildren, perseverance on the fishing dock, and the quiet faith of knowing we're not alone. Dina also shares how she gets her fourth graders excited about reading and writing, and why family read-alouds—at any age—truly matter.

In this powerful episode, Jed Doherty welcomes Jackie Baker, author of Messy Mourning: Hope for Mothers Grieving the Loss of a Child to Suicide. Jackie shares the heartbreaking story of her firstborn, Sebastian—a bright, curious, book-loving boy who grew up in a home where reading, faith, and family were central. She recalls sweet memories, from anatomy books at home to anxiously awaiting new Harry Potter releases, painting a vivid picture of a joyful, inquisitive child. As Sebastian entered high school, Jackie and her family began to notice serious changes: depression, anxiety, poor choices, and eventually substance use. Despite treatment, psychiatric care, and rehab, Sebastian struggled with bipolar disorder, experiencing manic and depressive phases. After an earlier attempt, he ultimately died by suicide, leaving Jackie, her husband, and daughter to navigate overwhelming grief, guilt, and unanswered questions. Jackie and Jed discuss the unique stigma surrounding suicide loss, especially in faith communities, contrasting it with how people respond to deaths from accidents or illness. Jackie speaks honestly about unhelpful comments, lingering shame, and the harmful notion that suicide is simply "selfish," reframing it instead as the tragic end of profound suffering and illness—much like an advanced cancer. Jackie explains how her Christian faith, scripture, and a loving church community became her anchor, and she offers practical ways to support grieving families: specific help instead of "let me know," showing up, avoiding platitudes, and being willing to listen and remember the child. Later in the episode, Jed talks with Paul Curley, author of Camp Counseling Mastery, who shares how playful, intentional camp activities can build children's language, confidence, and social skills, especially through movement, fun, and "accidental learning."

In this joyful episode of Reading With Your Kids, Jed welcomes librarian and debut middle grade author Haley Neil to celebrate her spooky-silly new book, Greta Grimsdark and the Normal New Neighbor. Haley shares stories from her work in the library, where she spends her days covered in slime, leading "Make and Play" programs, and helping kids discover books they truly love—especially those transitioning from graphic novels to more text-heavy stories. Haley and Jed shine a big spotlight on librarians as unsung heroes, describing libraries as hubs for early literacy, STEM, crafts, and community support, especially for families who rely on them for internet access and free programming. Haley encourages families to "library hop," talk to their librarians, and never hesitate to ask for book recommendations. They dive into Greta Grimsdark's world, where Greta's parents are dragons, her brothers are ghosts, vampires, and zombies—and Greta herself is the "scariest" thing of all: a human child. Haley describes the book as "Addams Family meets Junie B. Jones" with "cute Wednesday Addams vibes"—a lower middle grade, highly illustrated story perfect for bedtime read-alouds, classroom reading, and precocious independent readers. Beneath the funny, eerie surface, Greta's story explores friendship, identity, difference, and belonging, including casual representation like a brother who uses sign language. Haley also talks about bibliotherapy—using books to help kids process big feelings and tough topics—and the joy of writing for kids, caregivers, teachers, and librarians all at once. Throughout, Jed and Haley return to their shared mission: helping families read together, talk together, and grow together through stories. Jed also welcomes back Ginny Neil, former longtime teacher turned nature-loving picture book author, to celebrate her new title A River of Wind. Ginny shares how a magical encounter with tiny "spiderlings" floating on silvery threads sparked the idea for the book, which explores all the surprising things that travel on the wind—from familiar sights to hidden wonders high above our heads. Drawing on more than 38 years in the classroom and her life in the mountains, Ginny reflects on how nature, curiosity, and hands-on exploration shape both her writing and her teaching. She and Jed talk about the lasting impact of COVID on kids' social and fine motor skills, the loss of unstructured play, and the pressure to "schoolify" young children too early. Ginny argues passionately for giving kids time outdoors, space to ask questions, and freedom from constant screens and supervision so their natural curiosity—and STEM thinking—can flourish. They also discuss bullying prevention, the importance of building a culture of respect instead of just running short-term programs, and how parents can nurture curiosity simply by modeling it themselves and involving children in everyday problem-solving. Throughout, Ginny's deep love for kids, learning, and the natural world shines through, along with her joy in visiting classrooms and creating books that invite children to look closer, wonder more, and fall in love with the world around them.  

In this inspiring episode of the Reading With Your Kids Podcast, Jed welcomes Renee Nault from Vancouver Island to celebrate her YA romance graphic novel Salvage. Set in a future reshaped by climate change, Salvage follows Paulo, a teen who lives on the tidal flats scavenging from drowned cities. When he discovers a suitcase full of designer clothes, he sneaks into the wealthy uplands for "just one night" and unexpectedly falls in love—forcing him to juggle class divides, secrets, and the ticking clock on his double life. Renee shares how living outside Bangkok, Thailand, riding past riverside shacks on stilts, first sparked the idea for this powerful story about inequality, privilege, and the dreams of young artists. She talks about working entirely old-school with pen and paper, how she "thinks in pictures," and why all her characters are, in some way, different parts of herself. Listeners will especially appreciate her honesty about class frustration, artistic ambition, and how those emotions shaped Paulo's anger and passion. Jed and Renee also explore how Salvage can open up rich family conversations about climate change, social media, class, friendship, and making things right when we've hurt someone. In the second half of the show, Jed chats with Gayle Veitenheimer and Jen Weaver, co-authors of The Kingswell Kid Detective Series. They introduce The Mystery of the Missing Falls, a faith-based middle grade mystery featuring cousins, secret maps, Cherokee history, and gentle, accessible conversations about prayer, hearing God, and growing in faith together as a family.

Join host Jed Doherty for a joyful, imagination-filled episode featuring two wonderful picture book creators: Keith Negley, author-illustrator of "The Beginner's Guide to Being a Wizard," and Wanda Arlene Barajas, author of "Carina and Sabi: A Journey to the Heart of Cidra." In the first half, Keith shares how a quirky old diary, The Journal of a Disappointed Man, inspired his hilarious new series, The Beginner's Guide. He explains how he mixes the serious "voice" of a how‑to manual with completely ridiculous wizardly details—like emergency cheese, space pie, and strict duel etiquette (no summoning Grandma… she's way too powerful!). Keith talks about testing jokes on his kids, constantly collecting ideas from everyday life, and starting his stories with strong visual images that make kids eager to turn the page. He also describes his journey from editorial illustration to children's books and the "Gandalf" mentor who gave him permission to trust his own creative instincts. In the second half, Wanda takes listeners on a warm, heartfelt trip to Cidra, Puerto Rico through Carina and Sabi. She introduces Sabi, a magical Paloma Sabanera (an endangered pigeon found only in parts of Puerto Rico), and explains how the story celebrates nature, heritage, and the pride of growing up Puerto Rican. Wanda and Jed swap personal memories of Puerto Rico—coquí frogs, family, festivals, and food—and explore how stories can help all children, whether or not they're Puerto Rican, feel curious about other cultures while becoming more proud of their own.