Mindful, Happy Kids

In this episode, Elisabeth Paige interviews Maria Van Lieshout, a Dutch American author and illustrator whose latest graphic novel, 'Song of the Blackbird,' is critically important for today's youth. Maria delves into her personal history, growing up in Amsterdam, and how the resistance efforts in the Netherlands during WWII inspired her work. She emphasizes the pivotal role of women and artists in the resistance movements and discusses her novel's two interwoven plots set in 1942 and the present day. They also explore the impact of political climates on art, book bans, and the importance of supporting independent bookstores. Tune in to hear Maria's insights on history, art, and resistance.You can find information about Dr. Elisabeth Paige at www.mindfulhappykids.com.

Elisabeth and Deb delve into an engaging conversation. Deb, a native New Yorker, is a freelance illustrator including independent movie posters and the illustrations for graphic novels and the illustrations and writing of her own graphic novel, "In Limbo." They highlight their challenges and learnings in writing, their unique approach to drawing and the compelling themes in their works, "The Other Side of Tomorrow" and "In Limbo". The discussion also touches on Deb's non-binary identity, their struggles and triumphs, and their thoughts on mental health. Tune in to hear insightful perspectives on the intersections of art, literature, and personal identity.You can find information about Dr. Elisabeth Paige at www.mindfulhappykids.com.

In this episode, we delve into a conversation with Sonora Reyes, acclaimed author of young adult and adult books such as 'The Lesbiana's Guide to Catholic School,' 'The Luis Ortega Survival Club,' and 'The Broposal.' Reyes shares their writing journey as an autistic writer, starting with fanfiction and evolving into published novels centered on queer Mexican characters. They discuss the importance of representation in literature, touching on themes of mental health, complicated familial relationships, and social issues like homophobia, transphobia, racism, and discrimination. Reyes also highlights their latest projects, including a spinoff novel and contributions to an anthology. Tune in to hear about their creative process, inspirations, and advocacy through storytelling.You can find information about Dr. Elisabeth Paige at www.mindfulhappykids.com.

Join us for an engaging conversation with Hanna Khan, a prolific Pakistani-American children's book author from Rockville, Maryland. In this episode, Hanna talks about her life journey, growing up with Pakistani immigrant parents, and her extensive career in writing children's literature over the past 24 years. Discover her writing process, how she finds inspiration from her family and cultural heritage, and the challenges and joys of writing for young readers. Hanna also delves into her experiences with various writing formats, including picture books, middle grade novels, chapter books, anthologies, graphic novels and even a quote a day Islamic diary. She discusses the importance of representation and cultural identity in her work. This episode is filled with insights on writing, cultural nuances, and heartfelt discussions about the intersection of personal and professional life.You can find information about Dr. Elisabeth Paige at www.mindfulhappykids.com.

Byron Graves, author of the middle grade novel "Rez Ball," talks with Elisabeth Paige about his experiences playing basketball on the Ojibwe reservation. According to Byron, basketball is everything on the reservation with standing room only crowds and players who turn into heroes. The book deals with grief, alcohol abuse, and emotional dysregulation along with joy and fun play by play action.  You can find information about Dr. Elisabeth Paige at www.mindfulhappykids.com.

This video podcast features an in-depth interview with acclaimed author T.J. Klune, known for his vibrant queer, diverse, and fantastical characters. Klune discusses his journey as an author since 2011 and his notable works, including "The House in the Cerulean Sea," "Under the Whispering Door," and the "Green Creek" series. He delves into his latest projects, such as "Somewhere Beyond the Sea,” the sequel to “The House in the Cerulean Sea” and the re-release of "The Bones Beneath My Skin," explaining the inspiration behind his titles and themes. He shares his love of his characters and the roles they've played in these books. Klune emphasizes the importance of queer representation and touches on societal issues, including conspiracy theories, book banning, and the rising anti-trans and anti-LGBTQ movements. The podcast also highlights Klune's upcoming works and his dedication to writing stories that empower and inspire the queer community.You can find information about Dr. Elisabeth Paige at www.mindfulhappykids.com.

Join us for an in-depth conversation with Brian Anderson, creator of the beloved 'Dog Eat Doug' comic strip, as he shares his journey from a young artist to a celebrated author and illustrator. Brian discusses his inspirations, including personal anecdotes involving his pets, and how they influence his work. Dive into the evolution of his characters across various mediums, including his 'Sophie' graphic novels and the middle-grade fantasy series 'The Conjurer'. Discover the creative process behind his unique projects such as a steampunk-themed tarot deck and an animated series. Get valuable advice for aspiring writers and illustrators and learn about Brian's future aspirations, including his dream of creating a sanctuary for unadoptable and older dogs. This episode is packed with insights on storytelling, character development, and the blending of humor and depth in creative works.You can find information about Dr. Elisabeth Paige at www.mindfulhappykids.com.

This script provides an in-depth look at Dan Gutman's successful career as a children's author, detailing his journey from aspiring photographer to writer of over 200 books. Gutman shares his transition from nonfiction sports journalism to crafting engaging children's literature, discussing series such as 'My Weird School' and 'The Genius Files' as well as his many other series and his stand-alone books. He reflects on using historical settings and humor to engage young readers, particularly reluctant ones. The script also highlights the author's personal experiences, including balancing work as a solo entrepreneur and drawing inspiration from diverse sources. Gutman provides insights into his creative process, encouraging aspiring writers to maintain their unique voice and persistence. He emphasizes the importance of entertaining and maintaining children's interest without focusing on accolades, aiming instead for a global impact with his engaging and educational stories.You can find information about Dr. Elisabeth Paige at www.mindfulhappykids.com.

In this episode of 'Mindful, Happy Kids', hosted by Dr. Elisabeth Paige, we delve into the creative journey of Pedro Martin – author and illustrator of "Mexikid," a graphic memoir for middle graders. Pedro shares his experiences from his early beginnings in California to his career at Hallmark as a greeting card artist, and eventually transitioning into a graphic novelist. He discusses the importance of Mexican culture and representation in his work, as well as the unique challenges and joys of creating graphic novels for middle-grade readers. Join us for an inspiring conversation about storytelling, cultural identity, and creative passion.You can find information about Dr. Elisabeth Paige at www.mindfulhappykids.com.

Ever wondered how to blend art, history, and storytelling?

In this episode of 'Mindful Happy Kids', hosted by Dr. Elisabeth Paige, children's book author Ann Marie O'Brien discusses her journey as a writer, her love for dogs, particularly Borzoi, and the inspiration behind her middle-grade novel 'Lara's Gift'. O'Brien shares her experience working in Russia during the late 1980s, her fascination with Russian culture and history, and how these influenced her writing. She also talks about the challenges she faced in her writing career, the importance of persistence, and her goals for the future, including her ongoing projects and personal aspirations. The conversation touches on her blog about dog books and her commitment to authenticity and detailed research in her storytelling.You can find information about Dr. Elisabeth Paige at www.mindfulhappykids.com.

Navigating Writing and Publishing with Book Coach Julie ArtzIn this episode, Elisabeth interviews Julie Artz, a seasoned book coach and author who assists writers crafting empowerment and justice-driven stories. Julie discusses her journey from technical writing to book coaching, her services, and the importance of finding the right critique partners and support systems. She also introduces the WYRD Writers Collective, a community for writers to gain craft knowledge and peer support. Julie emphasizes the importance of writing communities, sharing experiences, and navigating the publishing landscape. She offers insights into her own writing process and aspirations, providing valuable advice for both budding and experienced writers.00:00 Introduction to Julie Artz01:04 What is a Book Coach?01:34 Motivating Writers and Overcoming Challenges03:28 Julie Artz's Journey to Becoming a Book Coach08:14 Finding the Right Authors to Coach10:39 The WYRD Writers Collective19:26 The Importance of Critique Groups24:29 Writing Conferences and Retreats29:23 Personal Insights and Advice for Writers32:44 Diversity in Publishing34:48 Final Thoughts and AdviceYou can find information about Dr. Elisabeth Paige at www.mindfulhappykids.com.

Join an interview of Nicole Chen and Elisabeth Paige as we wrap up Asian and Pacific Islander Heritage Month with an insightful interview featuring children's author, Nicole Chen. Amidst Covid-related tensions, Nicole shifted her focus to portraying Taiwanese families, aiming to dismantle Asian stereotypes. Her debut, "How We Say I Love You," emphasizes actions over words in expressing affection across cultures. From challenging misconceptions in "Lily Xiao Speaks Out" to defying familial expectations in "It's Boba Time for Pearl Li!," Nicole advocates using privilege to uplift others. Embrace Nicole's narrative journey, anticipating more enriching literature ahead.You can find information about Dr. Elisabeth Paige at www.mindfulhappykids.com.

NYT best-selling graphic novelist and syndicated cartoonist Maria Scrivan have a lively discussion about Maria's process, her books and her comic strip, "Half Full." Maria lives her dream as both a syndicated cartoonist and graphic novelist, where everyday emotions blend into her creative canvas. Amid deadlines, she finds joy in her craft, using exercise and yoga to break creative blocks. Maria believes humor lightens even heavy subjects, infusing laughter into her storytelling. Pets hold a special place in her heart, adding warmth to her comics. Writing, to her, is a time capsule of history and emotion. In her Nat series, preteen Nat navigates who she is and coping with friendship issues, self-doubt, identity, romantic crushes, courage, and learning how to deal with an unexpected adventure You can find information about Dr. Elisabeth Paige at www.mindfulhappykids.com.

 Picture book author and illustrator Steven Salerno has written and illustrated 5 books and illustrated an additional 32. His books range from initiating a conversation about death to a fashion designing carrot. He illustrated a book on the history of Hershey's chocolate and a Ferris wheel as big as the Eiffel Tower. His future plans include writing nonfiction books, but so far, the books he has written are fiction. He has illustrated many nonfiction books.We take a deep dive into his writing and illustrating process, taking classes with Maurice Sendak, and many of his books. He also gives us a peak into what we can expect of him in the future.You can find information about Dr. Elisabeth Paige at www.mindfulhappykids.com.

Rebecca Balcarcel, award winning middle grade novelist and poet takes us into her life through her work. As a half Guatemalan woman, she believes it important to be authentic in her writing. Her characters, struggle with identity issues along with autism, cancer, Parkinson's disease, and even death. She believes that middle graders are ready to hear the truth and read about their own experiences both the joyful and the challenging.You can find information about Dr. Elisabeth Paige at www.mindfulhappykids.com.

Jerry Craft, #1 NYT best selling author and only winner of the John Newbery Medal for outstanding contribution to children's literature for a graphic novel as well as other awards speaks with Dr. Elisabeth Paige about his life, his writing and publishing journey, and his work. He wrote over 30 books, primarily for African American kids that were, in his eyes, less about what you usually see in children's books targeting African American kids such as single parenthood, gun and police violence and slavery, and more about other issues confronting African American kids such as fitting into primarily white schools, differing socioeconomic statuses, parental relationships and friendships. As he hoped, the primarily African American characters in his trilogy, New Kid, Class Act, and School Trip have become iconic characters in kids lit. He began his adventures in children's literature by starting his own publishing company where he published like-minded almost exclusively African American authors.                           You can find information about Dr. Elisabeth Paige at www.mindfulhappykids.com.

 Dr. LaRocca's joy and brilliance are obvious as we take a deep dive into her award-winning middle grade novels and her picture books. Her books capture her love of medicine, Shakespeare, cooking, baseball, math, and her SE Asian heritage. She confronts tough issues like cancer, anxiety, and loneliness and fun topics like magic and music. I can't recommend more highly her books for kids of all ages.You can find my website at: www.mindfulhappykids.com.You can find information about Dr. Elisabeth Paige at www.mindfulhappykids.com.

Yoga and mindfulness are helpful for anxiety, depression, strength training and exercise for both children and adults. Audrey works as a yoga and mindfulness practitioner with both adults and children. She talks about her own yoga practice and her teaching.

In this exciting and energetic interview, #1 NYT best selling author Dan Gemeinhart talks with Dr. Elisabeth Paige about his writing journey, each of his five middle grade books, his upcoming books, and his advice for authors.

In this conversation between Chris Baron and Dr. Elisabeth Paige, they talk about Chris's award winning middle grade novels addressing sensitive topics such as body image, anxiety and other mental health, selective mutism and eczema. They are written in verse, narrative and multimedia. Chris is a professor anyone would be lucky to have.

In this conversation between Kate McKinney and Dr. Paige, Kate talks about her new book, "When to Hold On" about female relationships, both love interests and friendships, grief and holding space for silence. The book also focuses on finding beauty in nature. Written in verse it's a wonderful read.Spoiler alert: I highly recommend that if you are at all interested, that you read the book first as there are lots of spoilers in the interview.

I've chosen this moment to introduce you to a lovely picture book, Vivienne in Paris,  introducing children to the beauty of mindfulness. As the world around us is in chaos and horror, I believe we can have a reprieve using our senses to appreciate what we have . Maria is as lovely as her book. She talks about her journey as a mother of four young kids, an entrepreneur, a journalist and finally a children's books author. I hope you enjoy.You can find more about Dr. Paige on her website: www.mindfulhappykids.com.

In this Simple Petting Petitation, created and recorded by Dr. Elisabeth Paige, you will stroke your pet to a count of ten and then repeat for 3 minutes. If you lose count, don't worry about it, just start over. Even short meditations can help with health, mood and relationships.Music was composed and recorded by Steve Gruskin.

In this conversation between Dr. Paige and Lisa Fipps, Lisa talks about what it was like to be a "fat" child and all of the bullying that kids and adults go through when  they are different. Her book is beautifully written in verse, interesting for a children's book. Lisa talks about her process and why she chose this technique.Find Dr. Paige's other work at her website: www.mindfulhappykids.com.

It's finally here....My new website: https://mindfulhappykids.com/. You will find: links to the podcasts and the YouTube channel; links to the PDFs of my children's books; Petitations--pet-centered meditations (upcoming); book reviews of children's books featuring mindfulness, gratitude, compassion, yoga, and a diversity of cultures; and the pets of the month. If you would like to feature your pet, just send me an email with a picture.The first video/podcast for the new website (along with all of the old ones) is an interview with Kristin Hartness, executive director of Canines for Disabled Kids. They provide scholarships for kids who need service dogs and provide education about service dogs and emotional support animals for kids with disabilities. It's a tremendously interesting and engaging interview. Kristin talks about the differences between service dogs and emotional support animals, the different types of service dogs specifically for kids, how the dogs and the kids are taught, and how the dogs are integrated into the classroom. I learned a whole lot.   

In this conversation between UC Davis freshman and Dr. Elisabeth Paige, Robi is inspiring as he talks about his journey as a classical pianist and violinist along with his interest in international politics. He even plays a piece in the interview. 

In this conversation between Dr. Elisabeth Paige and Jessica Lanan, first offered as a YouTube on Mindful, Happy Kids, Jessica talks about her experiences illustrating and writing children's books. Her books range from books about the stars and other planets, to Korean cloths--from international adoption to farms where the farmers (two gay men) are adopting a baby. And her own work, a wordless book, "The Fisherman and the Whale." about a man and his father saving a whale caught in a fisherman's net. We spoke about her newest book, "Jumper: A Day in the Life of a Backyard Jumping Spider," another book she both wrote and illustrated. Jessica talks about the process of illustrating with watercolors and having had an experience in Asia with her sketchbook in hand as a true adventure into the world of watercolors. We spoke about working within timelines, dealing with challenging plateaus, and her future endeavors and bucket lists.If you are interested, I highly recommend checking out her artwork on the YouTube video.  

November is the month for gratitude, especially in today's continuing turmoil. The Gratitude Petitation guides you to use your pets in helping you establish a gratitude practice. Pippi and I are super grateful for each other! Recorded by Dr. Elisabeth Paige. Music composed and recorded by Steve Gruskin.Enjoy.Please find more information on Thanksgiving day on my website www.Petitationsplus.com.

In this Petitation™©, The Pet Scan, you sit with your pet and touch, smell, and listen from their head to their toes in an effort to stay in the present moment with your pet. Created and recorded by Dr. Elisabeth Paige.Set to music composed and recorded by Steve Gruskin.

Colleen talks about and reads from "The Great Stink: How Joseph Bazalgette Solved London's Poop Pollution Problem". This children's book won several awards and has many layers. It starts in 1500 and finishes with poop problems today. Nonfiction writing is explained and she describes the research that went into "The Great Stink." The interview is with Dr. Elisabeth Paige. See more information on her website Petitationsplus.com by October 7th, 2022.Tune in the first week of October when Dr. Paige will be uploading the second Petitation set to Steve Gruskin's music, The Pet Scan. 

In this interview, Dr. Paige picks Steve Berg 's brain about health from his wellness centers to his nutritional consulting to his physical fitness and the mind/body connection. You can find him at integritywellness360.com.Music composed and played by Steven Gruskin.You can find more information at Elisabeth Paige's website: www.Petitationsplus.com.

Each month I will be making available a Petitation for you to practice with your pets set to music composed and recorded by Steve Gruskin. For more information, visit my website Petitationsplus.com or "The Petitation Companion" on amazon.

In this interview, Jennifer Gennari talks about two of her books for 8-12 year olds. One is about the life of a little girl who is fighting her town's unacceptance of her mother's impending marriage to a woman and the other is about a girl with sound sensitivity. She also talks about writing and teaching. By August 22, 2022 you will see her profiled on Dr. Gruskin's webpage: Petitationsplus.com. Enjoy

In this interview, JJ reads his adorable book, "Worm Loves Worm". This book is about anyone and anything being able to fall in love and get married. According to JJ, the most important thing about writing is to have fun with the process and the rest will come. I hope you enjoy this podcast! Within a week a profile of JJ Astrian will be available on Dr.  Paige's website: www.petitationsplus.com.Interview by Dr. Elisabeth Paige.

All you've ever wanted to know about poetry. Georgia explains poetry in beautiful ways from anthologies to list poems to portrait poems to heart mapping. She has done extraordinary work in the schools and established poetry centers.  A wonderful interview with Dr.. Elisabeth Paige.

An incredible interview with the lawyer turned children's poet Janet Wong. She has written and edited many children's picture books, poetry books, anthologies for both adults and children and creative writing books and worked with children for decades. She also teaches poetry to adults and facilitates publication through her publishing press Pomelo Books. She is also the winner of many writing awards. She is Korean-Chinese American and talks a bit about what that is like in the age of Coronavirus. A must listen to! You can find her on her website, JanetWong.com

In this extremely informative and interesting interview, Emma talks with Dr. Paige about all aspects of publishing and editing from her experiences working for the top five publishing houses as a VP, as an editor, a publisher, and as a consultant in her current publishing firm Drydenbks. She worked on over 1000 children's books and wrote one of her own with Rana DiOrio: What Does it Mean to Be an Entrepreneur? 

Rana is an intrepid force for empowerment and positive change. As a corporate and securities attorney, tech-sector investment banker, angel investor, and advisory board member, Rana has guided the development of strategy and catalyzed the financial, operational, and cultural growth of organizations for 29 years. She talks with Dr. Paige about the path of her publishing company Little Pickles, her career as a children's author, her journey as a yoga teacher and meditator, and the work she has done in the financial world. Vulnerable at times, this interview is informative, interesting and fun.

In this fascinating interview with Robert Castillo, you will learn all about storyboards for TV, movies, commercials and even music videos. Robert started his career creating storyboards for The Sopranos and has since worked on some Marvel movies, TV shows, commercials, and much much more. He is a professor focusing on storyboard creation in Georgia. Another must listen to.Interview with Dr. Elisabeth Paige

In this interview Carolyn talks with Dr. Elisabeth Paige about her work on multi-cultural historical fiction for children. She has over a dozen books published and has been teaching for over two decades. Her books are incredibly informative and engaging.

In this wonderful musical interview, you'll hear all about Eve Decker, a meditation practitioner, teacher, and musician for over 3 decades. She has recorded five solo albums and works with both adults and children. A must listen to!Enjoy.Interview by Dr. Elisabeth Paige

In this interview,, Banni talks about her wonderful book on color and perspective for kids and the mindfulness curriculum she developed and that is being used in schools around the country. She also shares her journey with mindfulness and meditation. The interview is conducted by Dr. Elisabeth Paige and the music is composed and recorded by Natalie Hagwood on the cello  and Casey Lipska on the string bass.

In this interview April talks about her poetry, her children's books on the Jewish holidays, teaching, her activism, meditation, raising turtles and much more. Interview by Dr. Elisabeth Paige. Music composed and played by Natalie Hagwood on the cello and Casey Lipska on the string bass.

In this interview, Donna talks about her work on a series of animal superheroes books, her editing, and her podcast.Interview by Elisabeth PaigeMusic composed and played by Natalie Hagwood on the cello and Casey Lipska on the string bass.

In this interview with Gael Belden, meditation and compassion teacher, she talks about her work with the UCLA mindfulness research center, FBI agents and first responders. She was trained by Thich Nhat Hanh in his monastery for many years along with many other teachers. Her approach toward nature is interesting as is her meditation practice. I hope you enjoy the interview. The interview was conducted by Dr. Elisabeth Paige and the music was composed and recorded by Natalie Hagwood on cello and Casey Lipska on string bass.

In this engaging interview, Maleeha Siddiqui talks about her experiences writing Barakah Beats about a Muslim middle-schooler and her own experiences.The interview is conducted by Dr. Elisabeth Paige.

This interview explores Susan Vollmer interesting journey worldwide as a French horn player and instructor. If you would like to get in touch with her for lessons, she can be reached at svollmer2001@yahoo.com. I can vouch for her patience and abilities as a horn teacher.

Another one for Thanksgiving! by Dr. Elisabeth Paige. Illustrations by Zanne deJanvier.

I'm uploading this one again for the holidays. It's from The Petitation Companion by Dr. Elisabeth Paige and Joanne Leslie. Enjoy

This book about gratitude is perfect for Thanksgiving. If you've never seen it, the illustrations are amazing. Enjoy! Happy Holidays....