Imagining Yoko Ono: Lisa Tolin on Bringing a Misunderstood Artist to Young Readers

In this episode of The Growing Readers Podcast, host Bianca Schulze interviews award-winning author-illustrator Jon Agee about his latest picture book George and Lenny Are Always Together. They discuss Agee's creative process, his evolution from writing about middle-aged protagonists to child characters, and how he infuses gentle humor and nuanced storytelling into his work about friendship, independence, and the delicate balance between togetherness and solitude.Transcription: You can read the transcription on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Children's Book Review⁠⁠⁠ (coming soon)Highlights:Creative Solitude: Why Agee guards his story ideas like "living little creatures" and rarely shares them until fully formedCharacter Development: The organic process of how George the bear and Lenny the rabbit emerged from simple dialogue sketchesArtistic Process: His traditional art approach using paper and paint, then scanning into computerHumor Craft: The delicate art of infusing subtle, nuanced humor that works for both children and adultsIllustration Philosophy: When to let pictures do the work instead of words, creating space for reader interpretationEmotional Storytelling: How he almost came to tears reading his own goodbye scene to school childrenLiterary Influences: Current inspiration from Beatrice Alemangna and childhood impact of Edward Lear's limericksNotable Quotes:"John Agee has made a career out of chronicling the masculine midlife crisis for preschool readers." —Emily Jenkins review that Agee never forgot"I guard ideas almost like a living little creature that could dissolve. So I don't want to share it with anybody until it's more than just a little embryo." —Jon Agee on protecting creative ideas"I think there's parts of both characters in me...I can identify with both George and Lenny, that very naive childlike bear and that kind of analytical, intelligent, questioning rabbit." —Jon Agee on character development"Even if they're a bear or a rabbit or a grumpy old guy on a marooned island, I need to be engaged with the characters." —Jon Agee on storytelling"My motivation is to engage with them, to make them think, to make them laugh...but also to expand their imagination too." —Jon Agee on his goals for young readersBooks Mentioned:George and Lenny Are Always Together by Jon Agee: ⁠⁠⁠Amazon⁠⁠⁠ or ⁠⁠⁠Bookshop.org⁠⁠⁠Pepper and Me by Beatrice Alemangna: ⁠⁠⁠Amazon⁠⁠⁠ or ⁠⁠⁠Bookshop.org⁠⁠⁠Things That Go Away by Beatrice Alemangna: ⁠⁠⁠Amazon⁠⁠⁠Terrific by Jon Agee: ⁠⁠⁠Amazon⁠⁠⁠The Wall in the Middle of the Book by Jon Agee: ⁠⁠⁠Amazon⁠⁠⁠ or ⁠⁠⁠Bookshop.org⁠⁠⁠The Nonsense Book by Edward LearThe Friendly Book by Margaret Wise BrownAbout Jon Agee: Jon Agee is an award-winning author and illustrator with over 40 years in children's publishing. Known for his distinctive humor and storytelling style, Agee has created numerous beloved picture books. His career evolved from writing about adult protagonists in the 1990s to focusing on child characters, adapting to industry changes while maintaining his signature blend of gentle humor and meaningful themes. He has also written lyrics and stories for children's musicals.Connect and Follow:Learn more about Jon Agee at ⁠⁠⁠his website⁠⁠⁠: https://www.jonagee.com/Visit ⁠⁠⁠The Children's Book Review⁠⁠ website⁠ for more episodesCredits:Host: Bianca SchulzeGuest: Jon AgeeProducer: Bianca SchulzeThe Growing Readers Podcast celebrates children's literature and its power to inspire a lifelong love of reading.Keywords: Jon Agee, Growing Readers podcast, George and Lenny Are Always Together, picture book, children's literature, friendship, independence, bear and rabbit, humor, illustration, creative process, traditional art, character development, publishing industry, Harry Potter impact, Edward Lear, Margaret Wise Brown, Beatrice Alemangna, storytelling, emotional connection

In this episode of The Growing Readers Podcast, host Bianca Schulze interviews author Allie Millington about her picture book When You Find a Hope. They discuss Millington's unique brain drain morning practice, her long journey to publication, and how her own experiences with rejection and perseverance directly inspired this heartfelt story about hope.Transcription: You can read the transcription on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Children's Book Review⁠⁠⁠Highlights:The Brain Drain: Millington shares her morning writing practice that helps clear her mind for creativityRejection Collection: How turning hundreds of rejection letters into art became a source of hopeChildlike Perspective: The importance of maintaining connection to her younger self when writing for childrenFull Circle Moment: How a book born from hopelessness became her published picture bookCreative Visualization: The process of making abstract hope into something tangible for young readersIllustration Magic: The powerful way Anne Lambellet brought the story's emotions to lifeSuccess Journey: How acclaim for her debut novel Olivetti has influenced her approach to writingNew Release: Preview of her upcoming middle-grade novel Once For Yes featuring a narrator buildingNotable Quotes:"Even if your hope doesn't look exactly how you thought it would in the moment, don't lose sight of it. Don't let go of it." —Allie Millington on perseverance"The more I started getting rejections, the more and more I wanted this dream to come true for me." —Allie Millington on her publication journey"I'm the only one who can decide whether or not I give up." —Allie Millington on perseverance"If hope had a color, it would be yellow." —Allie Millington"It's just my desire that it would encourage others who are feeling hopeless themselves." —Allie Millington on her book"Finding those glimmers of hope, finding people you can hold on to, that connection, holding on to each other and taking care of each other, I think that's all we can do right now." —Allie MillingtonBooks Mentioned:When You Find a Hope by Allie Millington, illustrated by Anne Lambellet: ⁠⁠Amazon⁠⁠ or ⁠⁠Bookshop.org⁠⁠Olivetti by Allie Millington: ⁠⁠Amazon⁠⁠ or ⁠⁠Bookshop.org⁠⁠Once For Yes by Allie Millington: ⁠⁠Amazon⁠⁠ or ⁠⁠Bookshop.org⁠⁠The Artist's Way by Julia Cameron: ⁠⁠Amazon⁠⁠ or ⁠⁠Bookshop.org⁠⁠Winnie the Pooh by A.A. Milne: ⁠⁠Amazon⁠⁠ or ⁠⁠Bookshop.org⁠⁠About Allie Millington: Allie Millington is the bestselling author of Olivetti and now When You Find a Hope. Her writing journey included years of rejection before achieving success, with her debut novel receiving acclaim including a review from Tom Hanks in the New York Times. Allie's personal experience with perseverance directly inspired her picture book about hope.Connect and Follow:Learn more about Allie Millington at ⁠⁠AllieMillington.com⁠⁠Visit ⁠⁠The Children's Book Review⁠ website⁠ for more episodesCredits:Host: Bianca SchulzeGuest: Allie MillingtonProducer: Bianca SchulzeThe Growing Readers Podcast celebrates children's literature and its power to inspire a lifelong love of reading.Keywords: Allie Millington, Growing Readers podcast, When You Find a Hope, picture book, children's literature, hope, perseverance, rejection, writing process, brain drain, morning pages, Olivetti, Once For Yes, Anne Lambellet, illustration, creative process, publication journey, The Artist's Way, children's books, creativity, storytelling, illustrations, emotional connection, parenting, mental health

In this episode of The Growing Readers Podcast, host Bianca Schulze interviews author Lisa Tolin about her picture book biography Can You Imagine?: The Art and Life of Yoko Ono. They discuss Tolin's creative process, her admiration for Yoko Ono's resilience and artistry, and how she approached introducing conceptual art to young readers.Transcription: You can read the transcription on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Children's Book Review⁠⁠⁠Highlights:Finding Balance: Tolin discusses juggling her full-time job, motherhood, and writing booksThe Reading-Writing Connection: Thoughts on why writers must first be readersMeeting Yoko: How interviewing Yoko Ono changed Tolin's perception of herMisunderstandings: Common misconceptions about Yoko Ono that the book addressesArtistic Vision: Collaborating with illustrator Yas Imamura to bring Yoko's story to lifeHandling Difficult Topics: Approaching themes of war and John Lennon's death for young readersConceptual Art: Making abstract artistic concepts accessible to childrenPeace and Imagination: Why Yoko's message remains relevant for today's childrenNotable Quotes:"I think it's really important to not just read, but read widely and currently." —Lisa Tolin on becoming a writer"The instant I met her, I just knew she had been fully misunderstood." —Lisa Tolin on Yoko Ono"She talked about being a small pebble person... if you have a small pebble, you can see it ripple out and understand that you're making a difference." —Lisa Tolin on Yoko's philosophy"I wasn't like because children everywhere are demanding this book... it was because it interested me and I think that comes across in writing." —Lisa Tolin on writing about Yoko OnoBooks Mentioned:Can You Imagine?: The Art and Life of Yoko Ono by Lisa Tolin, illustrated by Yas Imamura: ⁠Amazon⁠ or ⁠Bookshop.org⁠How to Be a Rockstar by Lisa Tolin: ⁠Amazon⁠ or ⁠Bookshop.org⁠About Lisa Tolin: Lisa Tolin is a journalist and editor who has covered arts and entertainment, lifestyle, health, and breaking news for major news organizations. Her years as a journalist gave her the opportunity to interview Yoko Ono in her home. Lisa lives in Brooklyn, New York, with her husband and two sons.Connect and Follow:Learn more about Lisa Tolin at ⁠LisaTolin.com⁠Visit ⁠The Children's Book Review⁠ website for more episodesCredits:Host: Bianca SchulzeGuest: Lisa TolinProducer: Bianca SchulzeThe Growing Readers Podcast celebrates children's literature and its power to inspire a lifelong love of reading.Keywords: Lisa Tolin, Growing Readers podcast, Yoko Ono, picture book biography, children's literature, conceptual art, imagination, peace activism, Yas Imamura, illustration, creative process, motherhood, writing life, Beatles, John Lennon, children's books, artist biography

In this episode of The Growing Readers Podcast, host Bianca Schulze interviews acclaimed author Laurie Halse Anderson about her writing process, experiences with young readers, and her latest book, Rebellion 1776. They discuss the importance of historical fiction in helping readers understand contemporary issues, and how Anderson crafts engaging stories that make history accessible to young readers.Transcription: You can read the transcription on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Children's Book Review⁠⁠⁠Highlights:Anderson's Reading Journey: From struggling with dyslexia to becoming an award-winning authorWriting Process: Anderson's approach to writing historical fiction, including her morning writing routine and research methodsCharacter Development: Creating authentic historical characters that modern readers can connect withRebellion 1776: Discussion of Anderson's new book set during the Siege of Boston and smallpox epidemicResearch Methods: How digital access has transformed historical research compared to her earlier careerThe Importance of Hope: Anderson's commitment to including hope in all her books for young readersHistorical Fiction as Adventure: Making history exciting and page-turning for young audiencesAmerica's 250th Anniversary: Why understanding our nation's founding is particularly relevant nowNotable Quotes: "I think [it's] immoral to write for children without including hope." —Laurie Halse Anderson"With a good friend by your side, you can get through anything." - Laurie Halse Anderson on the main takeaway from Rebellion 1776"You should never criticize yourselves with words or a tone that you would not use to talk to a five-year-old."— Laurie Halse Anderson on self-criticism during the creative processBooks Mentioned:Rebellion 1776 by Laurie Halse Anderson: Amazon or Bookshop.orgFever 1793 by Laurie Halse Anderson: Amazon or Bookshop.orgPrairie Lotus by Linda Sue Park: Amazon or Bookshop.orgFault Lines in our Constitution by Cynthia Levinson: Amazon or Bookshop.orgA Swim in a Pond in the Rain by George Sanders: Amazon or Bookshop.orgAnatomy of a Story by John Truby: Amazon or Bookshop.orgAbout Laurie Halse AndersonLaurie Halse Anderson is a New York Times bestselling author known for tackling difficult subjects with honesty and sensitivity. Her work has earned numerous awards and has been translated into many languages. Her historical fiction brings America's past to life while addressing themes relevant to today's young readers.Connect and Follow:Visit The Children's Book Review website for more episodesLearn more about Laurie Halse Anderson at https://madwomanintheforest.com/Credits:Host: Bianca SchulzeGuest: Laurie Halse AndersonProducer: Bianca SchulzeThe Growing Readers Podcast celebrates children's literature and its power to inspire a lifelong love of reading.Keywords: Laurie Halse Anderson, Growing Readers podcast, historical fiction, writing process, children's literature, young readers, Rebellion, smallpox epidemic, Siege of Boston, character development, historical fiction, human nature, storytelling, adventure, research, young readers, American Revolution, writing process, literary themes

In this engaging episode of The Growing Readers Podcast, award-winning author Dusti Bowling shares her journey from a struggling reader to acclaimed writer, revealing how these experiences shape her characters. She discusses her latest novel, The Beat I Drum, which follows Connor Bradley—a teen with Tourette syndrome—drawing on her family's personal experiences to create an authentic portrayal that challenges stereotypes.Bowling explores the therapeutic role of music in the story while balancing serious themes with humor and heart. She explains her approach to writing characters with disabilities as fully realized individuals whose differences are just one aspect of their identity. The conversation highlights her passion for creating engaging books for underserved middle school readers and her plans to develop young adult fiction that bridges crucial gaps in children's literature, making this a valuable listen for anyone interested in authentic, inclusive storytelling.Discussion Topics:How Connor's character was developed due to reader interest.The title 'The Beat I Drum' and how it evolved during the writing process.Drumming and how it represents a form of self-expression for Connor.Dusti's family experiences and how they shaped her understanding of Tourette syndrome.Isolation and belonging and their recurring themes in Dusti's work.Friendship and how it plays a crucial role in Connor's self-acceptance.Challenging stereotypes about Tourette syndrome.Music and how it can serve as a therapeutic outlet for children with Tourette's syndrome.How teachers play a crucial role in supporting students.Divorce and the profound impact it can have on a child's emotional state.Finding forgiveness, even in difficult family situations.Balancing humor with serious themes to keep readers engaged.How characters with disabilities should be portrayed as well-rounded individuals.Thorough research is needed to determine how it is essential for authentic representation in literature.Middle schoolers and the need for age-appropriate literature that addresses their experiences.Empowering readers to communicate their interests to authors.Transcription: You can read the transcription on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Children's Book Review⁠⁠⁠ Order Copies of The Beat I Drum on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Amazon⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ or ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Bookshop.org⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠For more information about Dusti Bowling, visit https://www.dustibowling.com/Sign Up for The Children's Book Review e-NewsletterKeywords: Dusti Bowling, writing process, Tourette syndrome, children's literature, self-expression, family dynamics, isolation, reading journey, childhood friendship, emotional challenges, humor in storytelling, disability representation, research in writing, middle school literature, young adult books, reader engagement

Join us for a delightful conversation with author and music teacher Janna Matthies as she shares the inspiration behind her new picture book, Over in the Garden.Discover how Janna's musical background, love of nature, and teaching experience beautifully converge in this counting book that celebrates community gardening. From adapting the folk song "Over in the Meadow" to creating rhythmic, engaging text for young readers, Janna reveals her creative process and even treats us to a musical performance! Learn about her journey as an author, her passion for finding beauty in the world, and how she hopes her books will inspire children to explore the outdoors. This episode is perfect for parents, educators, and anyone who appreciates the magic that happens when music, literature, and nature come together.Discussion Topics:How exercise is critical for creativity and mental health.Being a reader is essential to becoming a writer.Gardening and its numerous benefits for children.Music and its influences on Janna's approach to writing picture books.How rhyming books can be powerful tools for engagement.Community gardening and how it fosters teamwork and connection.Encouraging outdoor exploration.Transcription: You can read the transcription on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Children's Book Review⁠⁠⁠ Order Copies of Over in the Garden on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Amazon⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ or ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Bookshop.org⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠For more information about Janna Matthies, visit https://www.jannamatthies.com/Keywords: gardening, children's books, writing, nature, rhyming books, community, creativity

In this heartwarming episode of The Growing Readers Podcast, Bianca Schulze welcomes Newbery Medal-winning author Matt de la Peña and bestselling illustrator Loren Long to discuss their new collaboration, Home.Building on the success of their #1 New York Times bestseller Love, the creators share intimate memories of their own childhoods and explore what home truly means beyond physical structures. Through thoughtful conversation, they reveal the creative process behind their lyrical text and evocative illustrations that celebrate the many forms of home—from family relationships to the natural world. The discussion highlights their commitment to inclusivity in storytelling, the emotional power of illustration, and how reading together creates its own sense of home and security for children. Perfect for parents, educators, and anyone interested in how picture books can help children process their place in our changing world.Discussion Topics:What defines "home" beyond physical structuresHow the pandemic influenced the creation of 'Home'The art of exploring feelings versus delivering messages in children's booksThe collaborative process between award-winning author and illustratorHow diverse settings in the book reflect varied experiences of homeThe power of sensory details in creating emotional connectionsThe journey from concept to finished book as a companion to 'Love'The role of nature in understanding our sense of belongingHow illustrations enhance the emotional impact of storytellingWhy reading together creates a lasting sense of security for childrenThe importance of celebrating everyday wisdom in children's literatureHow books can help children process change in their worldTranscription: You can read the transcription on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Children's Book Review⁠⁠⁠ Order Copies of Home on ⁠⁠⁠⁠Amazon⁠⁠⁠⁠ or ⁠⁠⁠⁠Bookshop.org⁠⁠⁠⁠For more information about Matt de la Peña, visit https://mattdelapena.com/For more information about Loren Long, visit https://lorenlong.com/Keywords: home, children's books, Matt De La Peña, Loren Long, memories, emotional connections, illustrations, storytelling, family, illustration, empathy, children's literature, collaboration, emotional connection, nature, security

In this engaging conversation, Bianca Schulze interviews Candace Fleming about her journey as a nonfiction writer, the allure of nonfiction for young readers, and her latest book on the Loch Ness Monster, Is It Real? The Loch Ness Monster.They discuss the importance of curiosity, critical thinking, and the balance between entertainment and education in writing for children. Fleming shares her unique research process, writing methods, and the motivation behind her work, emphasizing the significance of true stories and the joy of discovery in nonfiction literature.Discussion Topics:How curiosity drives both readers and writers towards nonfiction.True stories can be more compelling than fictional narratives.Writing engaging nonfiction involves connecting emotionally with the subject matter.Critical thinking is essential for discerning fact from fiction.Researching mysteries requires a balance of skepticism and imagination.The writing process can be messy and should encourage play and discovery.Engaging young readers involves weaving facts into a captivating narrative.Primary sources are invaluable for authentic storytelling.The journey of investigation often leads to more questions than answers.Transcription: You can read the transcription on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Children's Book ReviewOrder Copies of Is It Real? The Loch Ness Monster on ⁠⁠⁠Amazon⁠⁠⁠ or ⁠⁠⁠Bookshop.org⁠⁠⁠For more information about Candace Fleming, visit https://candacefleming.com/Keywords: nonfiction, children's books, critical thinking, Loch Ness Monster, Candace Fleming, reading, writing, curiosity, education, storytelling

In this episode of The Growing Readers Podcast, Megan E. Freeman takes us on a journey through her creative process and the powerful stories behind her novels ALONE and AWAY.From discovering swimming as an unexpected source of inspiration to transforming ALONE from prose to verse, Megan shares the evolution of her craft and her deep connection to young readers. She reveals how student feedback shaped AWAY's multiple narrative styles and discusses her meticulous research process, from calving on ranches to studying emergency management protocols.At the heart of our conversation is her passionate mission: empowering young readers and helping them fall in love with reading, one story at a time.Discussion Topics:Swimming as a significant source of creative flow.Reading Nancy Drew books in first grade.How the unique narrative styles in 'Away' enhance character development.The importance of choice in reading for children.Diverse storytelling formats can make reading more accessible.How Megan's transition from prose to verse transformed her storytelling approach.Engaging young readers requires authenticity in experiences.Feedback from tween readers is crucial for writing.Researching enhances story authenticity.Audiobooks provide a new perspective on storytelling.How Megan aims to empower young readers through her books.Inspiring a love for reading.Transcription: You can read the transcription on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Children's Book Review⁠⁠⁠Order Copies of Alone on ⁠⁠Amazon⁠⁠ or ⁠⁠Bookshop.org⁠⁠Order Copies of Away on ⁠⁠⁠Amazon⁠⁠⁠ or ⁠⁠⁠Bookshop.orgFor more information about Megan E. Freeman, visit https://www.meganefreeman.com/Keywords: creativity, writing, children's literature, reading journey, novels in verse, hybrid storytelling, Megan E. Freeman, Growing Readers podcast, storytelling, character development, young readers, hope, authenticity, audiobooks, rural experiences, writing process, empowerment, literature

In this episode of the Growing Readers podcast, John Patrick Green shares insights into his creative process, journey from artist to bestselling graphic novelist, and the collaborative nature of graphic novel creation. He discusses how his love for storytelling and humor drives his work, aiming to make kids laugh while also engaging adult readers with clever references.John reflects on his inspirations, including his childhood experiences and the influence of shows like Star Trek, and how these elements shape his storytelling approach. In this engaging conversation, John Patrick Green discusses his passion for creating graphic novels that make children laugh and foster a love for reading. He emphasizes the importance of all forms of reading, including graphic novels, and how they can engage different parts of the brain.John shares insights about his latest book, 'Agents of Suit: Wild Ghost Chase,' and the creative process behind it. He also compares his two series, 'Investigators' and 'Agents of Suit,' and offers valuable advice for young creators about finishing their projects and staying motivated.Discussion Topics: Star Trek and it's role in John's writing process. John's journey began with drawing comic strips as a child. How John's work is driven by a desire to make kids laugh. Collaboration with co-writers and artists is key. How his childhood comics helped him reconnect with what kids find funny. Any reading is good reading, including graphic novels. The 'Investigators' series versus 'Agents of Suit.'Transcription: You can read the transcription on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Children's Book Review⁠⁠⁠ Order Copies of The Agents of S.U.I.T.: Wild Ghost Chase on ⁠Amazon⁠ or ⁠Bookshop.org⁠For more information about John Patrick Green, visit http://www.johngreenart.com/Keywords: John Patrick Green, graphic novels, creative process, storytelling, humor, children's literature, collaboration, writing journey, making kids laugh, artistic inspiration, graphic novels, reading, children's literature, creativity, storytelling, humor, education, John Patrick Green, Agents of Suit, Investigators