Bringing Laughter to the Darkest Places: An Inside Look at Clowns Without Borders

Hey Families! Join the Reading With Your Kids Podcast at the Chicago Toy & Game Fair - November 9 & 10. Use promo code READ to save big on tickets! On the latest episode of the "Reading with Your Kids" podcast, host Jed Doherty had the pleasure of speaking with two talented authors about their new children's books that explore important cultural themes. First up was Violet Duncan, author of the middle-grade novel "Buffalo Dreamer." Violet shared how the book was inspired by the recent discoveries of unmarked graves at former residential schools in Canada, which deeply impacted her and her family. She emphasized the importance of educating all children, not just Indigenous kids, about the history and trauma of the residential school system.  Violet explained that "Buffalo Dreamer" focuses on the aftermath of the residential school experience, following a character who runs away and finds a safe haven. She wanted to highlight the strength and resilience of Indigenous people, while also providing a window for non-Native readers to gain empathy and understanding. Violet's passion for preserving her Cree culture shone through as she discussed the cultural elements woven into the story, like berry picking and sweet grass gathering. She also praised the representation of Native stories in the hit TV show "Reservation Dogs," noting its all-Native creative team. Later, pediatric nurse Kelly Fleming joined the conversation to talk about her picture book "Your Friend, Your Nurse." Kelly drew inspiration from her experiences caring for young patients in the hospital, and how she used a stuffed animal to build trust and comfort with a scared toddler.  Kelly emphasized the vital role nurses play in forming lasting relationships with their patients, especially children facing life-threatening illnesses. She hopes the book will help families navigate the hospital experience, while also fostering empathy in young readers who may not have personal experience with the healthcare system. Both Violet and Kelly's books offer important perspectives that can open young minds and hearts. This episode of "Reading with Your Kids" is a must-listen for parents, educators, and anyone interested in diverse children's literature. 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 The Reading With Your Kids Podcast At The Chicago Toy & Game Fair - November 9 & 10. Use the promo code READ to save big on tickets! On the latest episode of the Reading with Your Kids podcast, host Jed Doherty had the pleasure of chatting with three inspiring guests - author Shannon Stocker, her daughter Cassidy, and children's book writer Amulya Veldanda Vadali. The conversation covered some heavy but important topics, all delivered with warmth and authenticity.   Shannon joined Jed to discuss her new young adult novel "Stronger at the Seams," which tackles themes of chronic illness, disability, and self-advocacy. As Shannon explained, the book was initially written as middle grade but was revised to reach an older teen audience - a group that's often underserved when it comes to these types of meaningful, relatable stories. Shannon and Jed dove into the prevalence of childhood cancer and other serious conditions, emphasizing the need for kids to see themselves reflected in literature.  Cassidy, Shannon's daughter, then popped in to share about the special club she started at school called "Gifts for Gold." Through bake sales and other fundraisers, Cassidy and her friend Abby have raised thousands of dollars to support families of children with cancer. Jed praised Cassidy's empathy and courage, qualities that shine through as she advocates for her peers. Later, Amulya Veldanda Vadali joined the conversation to discuss her picture book "I'll Be Your Friend Forever." Inspired by the loss of her beloved golden retriever Cosmo, Amulya's story sensitively explores the grief of losing a pet. She explained how the writing process was therapeutic, helping her cope with her own heartbreak. Amulya also touched on her background as a biomedical engineer, sharing how her STEM career and children's author pursuits complement each other. Throughout the episode, the guests demonstrated the power of storytelling to tackle tough topics with heart. Whether addressing chronic illness, cancer, or pet loss, their messages of resilience, empathy, and hope are sure to resonate with young readers. 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!  

Looking For A Family Event You and Your Kids Will Love? Be sure to join the Reading With Your Kids Podcast at the 2024 Chicago Toy & Game Fair, Nov. 9 & 10! Please visit www.ChiTag.com and use the promo code READ to save on tickets! If you're a fan of middle-grade fantasy with a unique cultural twist, you'll love chatting with author JC Cervantes about her latest book, "The Daggers of Ire." JC is no stranger to the "Reading with Your Kids" podcast, and it was a delight to have her back on the show to dive into the magical world she's created. "The Daggers of Ire" follows the story of Esme Santiago, a young witch struggling to harness her powers. When all the witches in her town, including her own family, are stolen by a witch hunter, Esme and her best friend Thiago embark on a quest to find the four original witches and save the day. But with no one having seen these legendary figures in centuries, it's an impossible task. As JC explains, crafting this magical system and origin story from a Latino perspective was both a passion project and a major challenge. She wanted to shine a light on the rich traditions of brujería (witchcraft) in Mexico and how it has influenced her own family's beliefs. From the importance of connecting to a greater spiritual source to the everyday practice of magic, JC's personal experiences infuse the story with authenticity and heart. Beyond the magical elements, JC also delves into the power of sisterhood and the unique perspective that children can bring to the table. She encourages young readers to embrace their creativity, let their imaginations run wild, and not be afraid of a little fear and judgment along the way. We also had a chance to speak with Sandy Green. Sandy Green's new middle-grade novel "The Haunting of Lake Lucy" takes readers on a spooky adventure at a lakeside resort. When Jake and his twin sister Evie arrive for summer vacation, they encounter mysterious stories about the lake's haunted past. Inspired by Sandy's own family trips, the book follows the siblings as they attempt to communicate with the ghost through letters in a mailbox, leading to a thrilling exploration of the haunted house next door. Sandy explains how she cleverly crafted the story in verse to engage reluctant readers, using different poetic forms to match the mood and themes. With a focus on the power of imagination and the mysteries that lurk beneath the surface, "The Haunting of Lake Lucy" is a delightfully chilling middle-grade read. Whether you're a longtime fan of JC's work or discovering her for the first time, "The Daggers of Ire" is a must-read middle-grade fantasy that celebrates Latino culture, the strength of friendship, and the magic of the unknown. Be sure to connect with JC online to stay up-to-date on her future projects! 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 the Reading With Your Kids Podcast at the Chicago Toy & Game Fair, November 9 & 10. Go to www.ChiTag.com and use the pormo code READ to save on tickets! In this delightful episode of Reading with Your Kids, host Jed Doherty chats with the dynamic duo behind Bitty Boa - Lulu Cheng and Lacey Benard. These former elementary school teachers have embarked on a fascinating journey, creating Chinese bilingual books and toys that celebrate culture and language. Lulu and Lacey share the unexpected origins of Bitty Boa, which started with a late-night text about a "no-time hobby" and blossomed into a thriving business. They explain the differences between Mandarin, Cantonese, and simplified Chinese, and passionately discuss the importance of representation and keeping cultural languages alive in families.  As Lulu and Lacey navigate the challenges of publishing, translating, and designing their products, they've been met with an overwhelming outpouring of support from their growing community. Their 14 board books cover a range of topics, from food to holidays, and feature QR codes for audio recordings - making it easy for families to immerse themselves in the languages. Bitty Boa's custom wooden toys, inspired by Asian culture, add an extra layer of fun and learning. Jed and the Bitty Boa founders also touch on the power of food to connect people across cultures, and how their books use familiar, delicious elements to spark conversations and understanding. In addition to the Bitty Boa segment, this episode also features interviews with authors Leslie Eva Tayloe and Linda Hansen. Leslie shares the personal experiences that inspired her children's books, "Save the Trees" and "The Attic Door," while Linda discusses her latest release, "Little Lost Dog," and the importance of responsible pet ownership. Whether you're looking to explore new cultures, discover engaging children's books, or simply enjoy a heartwarming conversation, this episode of Reading with Your Kids has something for the whole family. Tune in and get ready to be inspired! 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 The Reading With Your Kids Podcast at the 2024 Chicago Toy & Game Fair, November 9 & 10. Use the promo code READ at checkout to save on tickets! Hey there, fellow book lovers! If you're looking for some heartwarming and inspiring stories from the world of children's books, you've come to the right place. On this episode of the Reading with Your Kids podcast, host Jed Doherty had the pleasure of chatting with three amazing authors who are making waves in the industry. First up, we met Rachel Loftspring, the author of "Mila the Maker and the 200 Piece Jigsaw Puzzle." Rachel shared how this delightful picture book was inspired by her own family's experiences with managing big emotions. We learned how Mila, the young protagonist, navigates the ups and downs of puzzle-making and ultimately discovers a powerful strategy for dealing with frustration. Rachel's passion for helping families grow closer through reading really shone through, and we were inspired by her work as a fertility law attorney, assisting families in building their dreams. Next, Jed welcomed back Mark David Pullen, author of the middle-grade novel "Freedom Through the Narrow Gate." Mark took us on a wild ride, introducing us to a cast of mice and rats in a parallel timeline to his Oasis Chronicles series. We were fascinated to hear how Mark's time working at a lab animal breeding facility sparked the initial idea for this story. Mark also shared valuable insights on the challenges and joys of writing for the middle-grade audience. Finally, we met the talented Mike Crowder, author and illustrator of "Wild About the Alphabet." Mike's journey was particularly inspiring, as he rediscovered his love for drawing after a life-changing event. We were captivated by his stories of creating courtroom illustrations and how that experience ultimately led him to the world of children's books. Mike's infectious enthusiasm for his work was truly contagious. Whether you're a parent, educator, or simply a lover of great stories, this episode of the Reading with Your Kids podcast is sure to leave you feeling inspired and eager to dive into these wonderful books. So, what are you waiting for? Start exploring the worlds created by Rachel, Mark, and Mike today! 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!

Hey there fellow book lovers! In this episode of Reading with Your Kids, host Jed Doherty had the pleasure of chatting with two talented children's authors - Bruce Hale and Anne Marie Riley Guertin.  First up, Jed welcomed  Bruce Hale, the author of the delightfully goofy "Outer Space Mystery Pizza Club" book series. Bruce shared the fun premise behind these illustrated chapter books, which follow a brother and sister chasing their mischievous dog through a portal to an alien planet. As a former reluctant reader himself, Bruce explained his passion for writing silly, action-packed stories that hook kids and get them excited about reading.  Bruce also gave us a sneak peek at his upcoming project, "The Troublemakers Club" - an illustrated novel featuring animal characters who decide to cause some good-natured mayhem around their school. Sounds like a blast! Next, Jed chatted with local author Anne Marie Riley Guertin about her latest releases, including the rhyming Halloween-themed picture book "Hide and Seek Monsters." As both a preschool and high school teacher, Anne Marie has a unique perspective on the challenges facing early childhood education today.  She lamented the increasing pressure on kindergarteners to perform academically, arguing that play-based learning is just as crucial for developing essential life skills. Anne Marie also shared her concerns about the overemphasis on standardized testing, advocating for more personalized, differentiated instruction. Whether you're a fan of goofy alien adventures or heartwarming tales of community, this episode of Reading with Your Kids is sure to inspire the young readers in your life. Be sure to check out Bruce and Anne Marie's work, and keep an eye out for their future projects! 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 the Reading With Your Kids Podcast at the Chicago Toy and Game Fair - November 9 & 10. Use promo code READ at check out to save on tickets! On the latest episode of the Reading With Your Kids podcast, host Jed Doherty had the pleasure of speaking with two talented children's book authors and illustrators - Jacob Grant and Wade Hudson.  Jacob Grant shared the inspiration behind his delightful new picture book "Umami," which follows a penguin who ventures out to try all kinds of exciting new foods. Jacob drew from his own experiences as a parent, noting how his kids' diverse tastes - from spicy-loving to ultra-bland - informed the story. He also discussed his family's creative background, including his grandmother's artistic talents and his mother's work as an art educator.  Jacob expressed his preference for creating both the story and illustrations for his own books, though he also enjoys the challenge of illustrating for other authors. He gave us a sneak peek at his upcoming project "Turtle Slept In," about a sea turtle who's the last to hatch and has to cross a busy beach. Jed invited Jacob to come back and celebrate the release of that book. Next, Jed chatted with Wade Hudson about his timely new picture book "The Day Madear Voted." Wade shared how this story was inspired by his own mother's experience voting for the first time after the Civil Rights Movement. He emphasized the importance of understanding the history and struggles behind voting rights, and getting young people engaged in the democratic process. Wade spoke passionately about the value of open conversations, both within families and across communities. He described how sharing personal stories can foster empathy and help people appreciate different perspectives. Wade expressed hope that "The Day Madear Voted" will continue sparking meaningful discussions about civic engagement. Both Jacob and Wade provided insights into the creative process, family dynamics, and the power of children's books to shape young minds. It was a delightful discussion full of wisdom, humor, and a love for storytelling. 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 episode of Reading With Your Kids, Jed Doherty chats with children's book author Jodi Meltzer about her latest release, "Your Face Lights Up the World." Jodi shares the inspiring story behind this certified great read, which focuses on themes of self-esteem and self-acceptance. Jodi explains how this book was a departure from her previous works, which were rooted in grief. This time, she let her imagination run free, resulting in a heartwarming tale about fraternal twins Harper and Hunter. When Hunter makes an insensitive comment about Harper's freckles, it sets her on a journey of self-discovery, learning to embrace the unique features that make her special. As a former news anchor, Jodi understands the pressure to conform to societal beauty standards, especially for young girls. She's passionate about encouraging readers, both young and old, to see the beauty in their own imperfections. Jodi emphasizes the importance of having open conversations with kids about the unrealistic expectations perpetuated by social media. Jed and Jodi also discuss the sibling dynamics explored in the book, and the lessons it teaches about conflict resolution and treating each other with love and respect. Jodi shares her own experiences growing up and the valuable insights she's gained as a parent. The conversation then shifts to Jed's interview with children's book author Nico Altamirano, who discusses his debut picture book, "The Crocodile Choir." Nico shares how he was inspired to write a story about a crocodile who dreams of singing, despite the skepticism of his friends. He emphasizes the importance of encouraging children to pursue their passions, even if they don't fit societal expectations. Throughout the episode, both Jodi and Nico offer advice for aspiring writers, stressing the importance of persistence, resilience, and stepping outside your comfort zone. They also talk about the fulfilling collaborative process of bringing their books to life with the help of illustrators. Listeners will be inspired by the empowering messages at the heart of these delightful children's books. By embracing our unique qualities, we can truly let our faces light up the world. 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!

If you're passionate about education and supporting underserved communities, you'll love this episode of the Reading with Your Kids podcast. Jed Doherty sits down with Summer Schneider, the head of school at Legacy College Prep, a charter school in the South Bronx that's making a big difference in the lives of its students. Summer shares the inspiring mission of Legacy College Prep - to ensure all students have access to opportunities after high school, whether that's college or other paths like trade schools or the military. She explains the unique autonomy and flexibility that charter schools have, which allows them to tailor their curriculum and approach to best serve their students. One of the biggest challenges facing Legacy College Prep is the high number of students who are performing two or more grade levels behind when they enroll. But Summer and her team are laser-focused on building reading habits and providing extra support to help these students catch up and thrive. Beyond academics, Summer also discusses the importance of rebuilding the partnership between schools and families, especially after the pandemic disrupted in-person interactions. She shares how Legacy College Prep is working to bring parents back into the school community. Jed and Summer also touch on the nationwide teacher shortage and Legacy College Prep's efforts to ensure they're fully staffed and able to provide the best possible education. But the real heart of this episode lies in Legacy College Prep's commitment to college preparation and making higher education accessible and affordable for their students. Summer explains the school's partnerships with universities and their focus on guiding families through the financial aid process.  The episode takes an exciting turn when Jed welcomes back Antony Kolenc and Leslea Wahl, from the Catholic Teen Authors group. They discuss their latest anthology, "Shadows, Visible and Invisible," which explores the Catholic traditions surrounding All Hallows' Eve, All Saints Day, and All Souls Day. Tony and Leslea share the collaborative process of creating these anthologies and the importance of preserving and sharing these rich cultural and faith-based stories with young readers. They encourage listeners to check out the Catholic Teen Books website to discover more inspiring, wholesome books for teens, and to support local independent bookstores by requesting the anthology. It's clear that the Catholic Teen Authors are on a mission to provide teens with literature that nourishes both the mind and the spirit. 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!

Hey there, reading fans! If you're looking for a fun-filled family weekend, you won't want to miss the upcoming Chicago Toy and Game Fair. Our good friend Mary Couzins, the founder of this amazing event, joined us on the show to give us all the exciting details.  But that's not all - we also had the pleasure of chatting with author Leokatia George about her Trumpet the Miracle Wolf Pup book series. Leokatia shared the inspiring true story behind the main character, Trumpet, a critically endangered Mexican gray wolf who was a surprise addition to the Wolf Conservation Center's breeding program. The Chicago Toy and Game Fair is back and better than ever on November 9-10 at the Donald E. Stevens Convention Center in Rosemont, Illinois. This is the largest toy and game fair in North America, and it's packed with hands-on fun for the whole family. From interactive play zones to exciting competitions, there's something for everyone. One of the coolest parts is the Young Inventor Challenge, where kids get to showcase their creativity and innovation. Over the years, some of these young inventors have even gotten their products licensed and sold in stores like Target! How cool is that? And of course, you know the reading with your kids podcast will be there, so be sure to stop by our booth. You might even get a chance to be interviewed and featured on a future episode! So what are you waiting for? Get your tickets today using the discount code "READ" and get ready to ignite your imagination at the Chicago Toy and Game Fair. It's an event the whole family will love - plus, you can discover new books like Trumpet the Miracle Wolf Pup to share with your little ones! 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!