Stories from the Ashes Podcast

Our conversation today was with Ryan J. Southworth, author of The Treeborn Trilogy: Other Books Mentioned in Episode: Chronicles of Narnia Lord of the Rings The Oath by Frank Peretti (not written for kids—a SERIOUS books.) DownBelow Station by C. J. Cherryh Morgaine Cycle by C. J. Cherryh Always Ready: Directions for Defending the Faith by Dr. Greg L. BahnsenThe Rise and Triumph of the Modern Self: Cultural Amnesia, Expressive Individualism, and the Road to Sexual Revolution by Carl R. TruemanThe Treeborn Trilogy : Mapaline, Ceylon, The Last TowerHeartwood Hotel series by Kallie GeorgeThe Green Ember series by S. D. SmithThe Conquerors Saga By Timothy Zahn Games recommended in the episode: Unmatched Wingspan Azul Terraforming Mars Blokus Reshelving Alexandria is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and help support our work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Your support makes a difference! ✨ Get full access to Reshelving Alexandria at www.reshelvingalexandria.com/subscribe

This is a unique episode for us—our very first foray into film as a storytelling medium!Since recording, we’ve had several filming days under our belt, along with some truly fun behind-the-scenes moments. Below, I’ve shared a few of my favorites:🎥 A time-lapse of an 18' lofted tent going up in our Jedi camp.🦸‍♂️ Two amazing actors proving that grown men love wearing capes.📣 A link to our promo video and the socials where you can follow along: Instagram, YouTube, and our GoFundMeThis whole experience has been such a joy—especially getting to share it with my girls. I can’t wait to see the finished short film once Palmer wraps up filming and postproduction, and I’m looking forward to sharing even more about the journey with all of you! (If you keep scrolling, I’ve included some stills as a bonus at the bottom of the page!)Also in this episode…We chat about a few favorites, including:* a beloved book series that’s will come as no surprise to anyone* and a random but delightful influencer who just might feed your Jane Austen obsessions- Jake Phillips, theculturedbumpkin Reshelving Alexandria is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and help support our work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Your support makes a difference! ✨You’re still here! Fantastic! Here are some quick shots I took of some of the sets and props- I hope you enjoy!Inara and me at the end of a 17 hour filming day (it’s hours past midnight at this point).An 18’ Imperial control console built specifically to cover a low bookshelf at the library.I’m in love with this accessory for Silas’ character. It’s a battery from the 1950’s.A jedi master checking out the lofted tent and campsite at large.Gemma is an expert log keeper for the camera and mics. So proud of her! We had the honor of filming at Hancher Auditorium. This is the restaurant scene and it was our first long day with a 6 a.m. call time- it went so well but I could barely walk that night! I love watching Palmer and Rebecca work together. Mothers and sons are such a special relationship! Get full access to Reshelving Alexandria at www.reshelvingalexandria.com/subscribe

Annie Parsons is a graduate homeschooler who lives at home, saves her money for family trips to England, and somehow still finds time to read widely, support her friends, teach remotely, and charm preschoolers during storytime at the library. She’s an illustrator and storyteller with a quiet wit, a love of video games, and a deep appreciation for the little things that make life feel magical. Her art reflects all of that—warm, whimsical, and full of heart. Find her here:InstagramWebsiteAnnie’s book: Stone SoupStone Soup resources and coloring pagesSkillshare Classes SubstackBooks mentioned/discussed in this episode: Framed by Frank Cottrell BoyceWomen of the Word: How to Study the Bible with Both Our Hearts and Our Minds by Jen WilkinThe Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric CarleThe Artist Who Painted the Blue Horse by Eric CarleThe Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. LewisThe Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien Picture This: How Pictures Work Molly BangThe Grey Lady and the Strawberry Snatcher by Molly BangGoose by Molly BangThe Yellow Ball by Molly BangFrost Light by Danielle BullenSparrow in the Sun by Danielle Bullen17:00 St. Patrick's Day Shamrocks by Mary BerendesNellie Bly: America’s Greatest Reporter by Iris Noble; republished by Renewed Books 5/25Northanger Abbey by Jane Austen, republished by Renewed BooksTen Days in a Madhouse: A Story of the Intrepid Reporter Nellie Bly by Nellie BlyA Race Around the World: The True Story of Nellie Bly & Elizabeth Bisland by Caroline Starr Rose; illustrated by Alexandra ByeNellie Vs. Elizabeth: Two Daredevil Journalists’ Breakneck Race around the World by Kate Hannigan; illustrated by Rebecca Gibbon Sam and Dave Dig a Hole by Mac Barnett; illustrated by Jon KlassenLuli and the Language of Tea by Andrea Wang; illustrated by Hyewon YumUmami by Jacob GrantSaturday by Oge MoraThank You, Omu by Oge MoraThis is Worship: art by Anthony GorolaWorld Famous Paintings by Rockwell Kent (a book of art) The Jesus Storybook Bible narrated by David Suchet- the story of Leah Kiki’s Delivery Service by Eiko KadonoVideo Games We Love:Hello Kitty: Island AdventureAnimal CrossingThe Master’s Pupil Ambre’s kids favorite Poirot episode: “The Veiled Lady” Leuchtturm journalsThanks for visiting Reshelving Alexandria! This post is free, so feel free to share it with a friend—or three! 📚✨Reshelving Alexandria is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and help support our work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Your support makes a difference! ✨ Get full access to Reshelving Alexandria at www.reshelvingalexandria.com/subscribe

Our guest this week is Ali Noël. Ali lives with her three young children in the rainy shadow of Mount Rainier. When she isn't spear-heading her first year of homeschooling or chasing her stubborn bulldog around the yard, you can find Ali whittling poetry and chipping away at her biblical fiction novel. Ali had a B.S. in Biblical Studies from Indiana Wesleyan University and is currently a poetry intern for Twenty Hills Publishing. Some of Ali’s most recent poetry publications and other places to find her:Light of the World published by Vessels of Light The Day Bringer published by Vessels of LightToo Often I Forget published by Calla Press Publishing, Spring Literary Journal Tenderly, He, published by Calla Press Publishing, Spring Literary Journal Watch As It Wakes published by Storyboard Community Spring Journal Book 1 in The Ratcatcher ChroniclesThe Kingdom of GallimaufriaChapter One: The Boy from RavoFrom the Desk of Periwinkle Twist- SubstackInstagram: The.Poetess.Life PeriwinkleTwist_WritesBooks referenced and discussed in this episode:Redeeming Love (please read reviews when deciding if this is a good read for You)Sense and Sensibility by Jane AustenLittle House on the Prairie series (specifically Farmer Boy) The Joy Luck ClubHarry PotterTo Kill a Mockingbird Emma Wingfeather Saga Shel Silverstein’s poemsThe Brontë Sisters booksNorthanger Abbey by Jane AustenMary Oliver (her complete works) Favorite Poems, Old and New “The Wreck of the Hesperus” by Henry Wadsworth LongfellowAnne of Green Gables The Pied Piper of HamelinThe Princess and the Goblin Give and Take Hidden Truths The Awakening of Miss Prim The Lord of the Rings Resource:House of Humane Letters: How to Read Fairy Tales class with Angelina Stanford.A Year with Mary Oliver free guide from Amy Parilee Rickards of @livingwellread.📢 Shoutout to Bandersnatch! They’re in the final week of their Kickstarter for a fantastic new book—a collection of children’s poetry from living poets! If you love sharing fun, playful poetry with your kids, now’s the time to support this project. Check it out before the campaign ends next week! Reshelving Alexandria is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and help support our work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Your support makes a difference! ✨Thanks for visiting Reshelving Alexandria! This post is free, so feel free to share it with a friend—or three! 📚✨ Get full access to Reshelving Alexandria at www.reshelvingalexandria.com/subscribe

Welcome back to Season 4! In today’s episode, I’m chatting with Rebecca LeVake about how to make picture books even more fun by acting them out with your kids. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or just looking for new ways to engage little (and big!) readers, Rebecca’s got some great ideas to bring stories to life in an interactive and playful way. Grab your kids, a favorite picture book, and let’s dive in!To learn more about Rebecca’s reading adventures and the educational journey of her family, be sure to check out her website!Books shared in this episode:Where the Red Fern Grows by Wilson RawlsThe Outsiders by S.E. HintonTo Kill a Mockingbird by Harper LeeBodie and Brock Thoene book series for older teens and adults 16+ The Zion Chronicles, The Zion Covenant, Shiloh Legacy, The Jerusalem ChroniclesThe Zion Legacy- they’ve written more, but these are the ones we’ve read. The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. TolkienRoll of Thunder Hear My Cry by Mildred D. TaylorSong of the Trees by Mildred D. TaylorOnce on a Time by A.A. Milne -Picture Books That Are Perfect for Beginning: Simple, Engaging, and Fun!-One-Dog Canoe by Mary Casanova and Ard HoytThe Mitten by Jan Brett (mistakenly referred to as “The Hat” in the episode) Elephant and Piggie books by Mo WillemsGuess How Much I Love You by Sam McBratneyLittle Red Hot by Eric A. KimmelArmadilly Chili by Helen Ketteman (a Little Red Hen story)Song and Dance Man by Karen AckermanRoxaboxen by Barbara CooneyThe Pumpkin Runner by Marsha Diane ArnoldCaps for Sale by Esphyr SlobodkinaThe Farmer in the Dell by Alexandra Wallner Get full access to Reshelving Alexandria at www.reshelvingalexandria.com/subscribe

This week, we’re thrilled to welcome UK artist Michael J. Tinker to the podcast! Michael is a gifted musician and storyteller whose work blends faith, creativity, and heart in a way that resonates with listeners of all ages. In this episode, we delve into his incredible Christmas album, discussing the inspiration behind the songs and the absolute joy of weaving gospel truths into festive music.We also explore Michael's broader ministry and the ways he uses his talents to share stories of hope and redemption. Whether you’re already a fan of his music or discovering him for the first time, this conversation will leave you inspired and ready to add some new tunes to your holiday playlist!Tune in for an episode filled with warmth, humor, and a little Christmas magic!You can connect with Michael and discover all the creative pies his fingers are in by visiting his website here.You can support Michael by ordering his music directly through his store here.The King Has Arrived by Michael J. Tinker (In case you don’t listen-my family absolutely LOVE this Christmas adventure album!)Michael’s entire music catalogue for streaming is here on Bandcamp.Adventures of the Juniper tv show, free on YouTube.YouTube Christmas playlist.Muppet “Pigs in Space”- YouTube linkThe Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. LewisJungle Jam and Friends the Radio ShowCalvin and Hobbes by Bill WattersonCommando comic seriesCharlie and the Chocolate Factory by Roald DahlFantastic Mister Fox by Roald DahlAdventures in Odyssey the Radio ShowMorning & Evening by Charles SpurgeonThe Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. TolkienCry, the Beloved Country by Alan PatonThe Jack Reacher Series by Lee ChildThe Green Ember Series by S.D. SmithThe Princess Bride by William Goldman As You Wish by Cary Elwes - AudiobookFaith, Hope and Carnage by Nick Cave and Seán O’Hagan- Content Consideration: Lots of swearingNellie Bly: America’s Greatest Reporter by Iris Noble- Coming in January 2025 from Renewed Books!Thanks for listening to Stories from the Ashes! This episode is free so please share it and encourage a friend with a new holiday album!Stay in the loop and enrich your reading life! Subscribe now to unlock a treasure trove of book lists, engaging podcast content, and encouraging articles. Your literary journey begins with a simple click. Subscribe today! Get full access to Reshelving Alexandria at www.reshelvingalexandria.com/subscribe

Today’s episode is extra special for all you classic children’s book lovers! I had the absolute pleasure of sitting down with Carrie Halim, the Curator of the Robert McCloskey Museum, who (let’s be honest) is basically living the dream. If you’ve ever imagined what it’s like to be surrounded by Make Way for Ducklings, Blueberries for Sal, and all things McCloskey, you’re in for a treat. Carrie shares how she fell in love with McCloskey’s work, the magic of curating such an iconic collection, and some behind-the-scenes stories from the museum. Whether you’re a long-time fan or just discovering McCloskey’s timeless books, this episode will leave you inspired and ready to revisit your favorites. Celebrate Robert McCloskey’s Ohio Roots: A Day of Donuts, Harmonica, and Kaleidoscopes!Join us this Saturday, September 14th, for the grand finale of summer at the McCloskey Museum! We're celebrating Robert McCloskey’s Ohio heritage and literary legacy with a day full of fun and creativity. Enjoy donuts, harmonica tunes, and kaleidoscope-making as we honor the beloved author and illustrator. Special tributes from authors Glenn McCarty and Gary D. Schmidt, along with duckling and Lentil sculptor Nancy Schon, will make this event even more memorable.Catch a performance of Lentil at the Hamilton Flea at 11 AM, and then join us at the museum from 12-4 PM to continue the festivities. It’s all happening on McCloskey’s birthday weekend at 20 High Street, Hamilton, Ohio. For more details, visit our Facebook group at McCloskey Wonder Works!Books in this episode: The Complete Tales of Winnie-The-Pooh by A. A. MilneFrederick by Leo Lionni The Princess and the Goblin by George MacDonaldPilgrim’s Inn Elizabeth GoudgeTime of Wonder by Robert McCloskey (on sale at time of posting!)Lentil by Robert McCloskeyHomer Price books by Robert McCloskeyCenterburg Tales (also titled More Homer Price) by Robert McCloskeyHenry Reed series by Keith Robertson; illustrated by Robert McCloskey: Henry Reed, Inc. Henry Reed's JourneyHenry Reed's Babysitting ServiceHenry Reed's Big ShowHenry Reed's Think TankMake Way for Ducklings by Robert McCloskeyBlueberries for Sal by Robert McCloskeyMadeline by Ludwig BemelmansThe Story About Ping by Marjorie Flack; illustrated by Kurt Wiese Robert McCloskey by Gary D. Schmidt Where the Wild Things Are by Maurice SendakDoodle’s Mountain by Amanda M. Brindley; illustrated by Sofia RectorThe Misadventured Summer of Tumbleweed Thompson by Glenn McCarty; illustrated by Joe SutphinJourney Cake, Ho! by Ruth Sawyer; illustrated by Robert McCloskey Burt Dow, Deep-Water Man : A Tale of the Sea in Classic Tradition by Robert McCloskeyPocket Full of Colors: The Magical World of Mary Blair, Disney Artist Extraordinaire Amy Guglielmo; illustrated by Jacqueline Tourville Tom Sawyer by Mark TwainHuckleberry Finn by Mark TwainThe Silver Chair by C.S. LewisJohn Philip Duck by Patricia PolaccoOnce On a Time by A. A. Milne The Magic Hill by A. A. MilneThe Childcraft books Reshelving Alexandria is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support our mission, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to Reshelving Alexandria at www.reshelvingalexandria.com/subscribe

In this episode, we sit down with homeschool mom Kirsten Hill to discuss the joys and challenges of reading aloud to a primarily male audience. Kirsten shares her insights on selecting engaging books for boys, keeping their attention, and fostering a love of reading through captivating read-aloud sessions. Whether you're a parent, teacher, or librarian, you'll find valuable tips and recommendations to enhance your read-aloud experiences with boys. Betsy-Tacy by Maud Hart LovelaceThe Mixed-Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler by E.L. KonigsburgA Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L’EngleThe Chestry Oak by Kate SeredyThe White Stag by Kate SeredyA Tree for Peter by Kate SeredyA Tune in the Tree by Maud Hart LovelaceThe Anna Hibiscus books by AtinukeAnne of Green Gables by L.M. MontgomeryUnderstood Betsy by Dorothy Canfield Rilla of Ingleside by L.M. Montgomery Sherlock Holmes by Arthur Conan DoyleChronicles of Narnia by C.S. LewisThe Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. TolkienThe Wingfeather Saga by Andrew PetersonThe Chronicles of Prydain by Lloyd Alexander Percy Jackson and the Olympian series by Rick RiordanBaby Island by Carol Ryrie BrinkIsland of the Blue Dolphins by Scott O’DellBanner in the Sky by James Ramsey UllmanCarry On, Mr. Bowditch by Jean Lee LathamJohnny Tremain: A Story of Boston in Revolt by Esther ForbesOwls in the Family by Farley MowatRascal by Sterling NorthHarry Potter by J.K. Rowling Berenstain Bears by Stan and Jan BerenstainTreasure Island by Robert Louis StevensonLandmark books Guadalcanal Diary (Landmark)The Bronze Bow by Elizabeth George SpeareThe Witch of Blackbird Pond by Elizabeth George SpeareNever Cry Wolf by Farley MowatDetectives in Togas by Henry WinterfeldThe Wednesday Wars by Gary D. Schmidt A Rover’s Story by Jasmine WargaThe Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien The Wilderking Trilogy by Jonathan Rogers Thank you for reading Reshelving Alexandria . This post is public so please share it! Get full access to Reshelving Alexandria at www.reshelvingalexandria.com/subscribe

Our guest this week is Amanda Cleary Eastep, author of the Christian middle-grade series The Tree Street Kids from Moody Publishers. Get full access to Reshelving Alexandria at www.reshelvingalexandria.com/subscribe

Today’s Guest: Author Jamin Still Tales of Hibaria: The Awakening by Jamin StillThe Master of Tides- Book 1 of The Tales of Hibaria by Jamin StillOther titles in this episode:The Green Ember Skyward Series by Brandon SandersonThe Wilderking Trilogy by Jonathan RogersSonya’s Chickens by Phoebe Wahl Even If He Doesn’t… What We Believe About God When Life Doesn’t Make Sense by Kristen LaValley Get full access to Reshelving Alexandria at www.reshelvingalexandria.com/subscribe