Podcast appearances and mentions of ann braden

Send us a textGet ready for some amazing adventures as you plan your summer reading journey with not one, but TWO thrilling middle grade tales of courage, growth, and resilience featuring strong female leads. Happy Book Birthdays to Ann Braden and Caroline Starr Rose! Join us as we unravel the magic behind Into the Rapids and The Burning Season, where young heroines face the fury of nature and discover their inner strength.Summary:In this episode, we dive into summer adventures with authors Ann Braden and Caroline Starr Rose. Their novels, Into the Rapids and The Burning Season, feature young protagonists navigating the challenges of natural disasters—flash floods and wildfires. These stories of self-discovery and empowerment will resonate with fans of Hatchet as they explore themes of self-identity, community support, and overcoming fear. The authors share their creative processes and insights into writing about single-parent households and cultural backgrounds, proving that stories of resilience can thrive without competition. Chapters:(0:00:03) - Summer Adventure Books for Young Readers Discover the empowering stories of young heroines facing natural disasters in Ann Braden's Into the Rapids and Caroline Starr Rose's The Burning Season(0:03:41) - Characters' Self-Identity Journey After Natural Disasters Explore the intertwining themes of self-identity and natural disasters, and the authors' personal experiences that shaped their narratives.(0:15:52) - Exploring Fear and Connection Delve into how fear and mortality are portrayed in literature and how voicing fear can transform it, offering hope and connection.(0:21:05) - Middle Grade Authors Finding Hope Learn about upcoming books, the creative process, and the importance of hope in writing for middle-grade readers.Links:Purchase Into the Rapids and The Burning SeasonVisit Ann Braden and Caroline Starr Rose onlineSupport the showSubscribe & Follow: Stay updated with our latest episodes and follow us on Instagram, LinkedIn, and the Adventures in Learning website. Don't forget to subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts! *Disclosure: I am a Bookshop.org. affiliate.

We cover all the riveting things plaguing our thoughts at the moment. Also, the book Shelby was trying to reference was: The Benefits of Being an Octopus by Ann Braden.

In this conversation, Jennifer chats with Ann Braden, an author who writes books that empower kids to find their voice and make a difference in the world. Ann shares her journey as a reader and writer, highlighting the books that had a profound impact on her life. She discusses the importance of recognizing our own voice and the power it holds. Ann also explores the themes in her books, such as facing tough topics and finding hope in difficult times. The conversation emphasizes the need for connection and belief in oneself and others. For more information about this episode, including detailed show notes and a discount code from Bookelicious, visit: librarygirl.net  Chapters: 00:00 Introduction  00:54 Anne's Reader's Heart 03:07 Discovering a Love for History 04:32 Finding the Confidence to Write 05:30 Using Voice to Change the World 07:19 Writing Books for Kids to Find Their Voice 10:26 Facing Bullying and Overcoming Challenges 13:06 Book Talk: Opinions and Opossums  14:46 The Impact of Anne's Books on Readers 16:47 The Importance of Art in Understanding Our Times 19:35 The Need for Connection and Belief 25:01 Finding Joy in the Darkness 28:28 The Darkness Turned Inside Out 29:27 Conclusion and Gratitude

Meet Ann Braden, a modern day Judy Blume, who has written the most wonderful, sensitive middle grade books about that time in your life when you're struggling between being a child and being an adult.  Today we explore the inspiration behind The Benefits of Being an Octopus, Flight of the Puffin, and her latest book, Opinions and Opossums. Join us for a conversation that explores the challenges and joys of writing about real issues for this young audience and the importance of finding and using your voice. [00:50] Discussion about Ann Braden's Writing Journey Discovering a passion for writing and activism.Self-doubt and early reluctance to write — and pivotal moments that changed things[07:03] A golden age of middle grade writingAuthors who inspire AnnRepresentation of diverse emotions and experiences.[08:54 Inspiration for Ann's Characters The inspiration behind Ann's unique heroines — and connections to the author[11:30] How Opinions and Opossums reflects the author's childhood and struggles with self-doubt and religion.Questioning societal norms and why adolescents often lose their self-confidence.Struggles boys also face regarding societal expectations and limitations.[17:08] Opinions and Opossums origin story[17:29] Ann's writing process.Practice of jotting down one idea per day for two months.Bullet journals and colored pensExploring Theme, Setting, Plot, and Characters.Connecting unique animals to the theme[19:16] Flight of the PuffinThemes of unity and connectionImportance of moving beyond surface-level discussions.Significance of finding ways to connect, act, and belong.[24:30] Origins of Local Love Brigade Sending postcards with messages of love and support to counter hate mailImpact of acts of kindness and community engagement.Connecting to library camps[29:31] Origins of #KidsNeedBooks #KidsNeedMentors[32:05] Issues that inspire Ann's activism.{35:42] Current sources of joy.[38:25] How to counter book banningDrawing parallels to Ann's activism in gun control.The importance of finding like-minded individuals and standing up against bullies.[43:41] Balancing sensitivity and strength.Watch the episode on YouTube.Buzzsprout - Let's get your podcast laun Start for FREEDisclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the showRead the full show notes, visit the website, and check out my on-demand virtual course. Continue the adventure at LinkedIn or Instagram. *Disclosure: I am a Bookshop.org. affiliate.

Anne Braden was raised to be a Southern belle. Instead she became a revolutionary who helped to shape the self-understanding of the entire civil rights movement. Ben Wilkins put together a collection of her writings and speeches, and joins Adam to discuss. ✦ ABOUT ✦The Valley Labor Report is the only union talk radio show in Alabama, elevating struggles for justice and fairness on the job, educating folks about how they can do the same, and bringing relevant news to workers in Alabama and beyond.Our single largest source of revenue *is our listeners* so your support really matters and helps us stay on the air!Make a one time donation or become a monthly donor on our website or patreon:TVLR.FMPatreon.com/thevalleylaborreportVisit our official website for more info on the show, membership, our sponsors, merch, and more: https://www.tvlr.fmFollow TVLR on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheValleyLab...Follow TVLR on Twitter: @LaborReportersFollow Jacob on Twitter: @JacobM_ALFollow TVLR Co-Creator David Story on Twitter: @RadiclUnionist✦ CONTACT US ✦Our phone number is 844-899-TVLR (8857), call or text us live on air, or leave us a voicemail and we might play it during the show!✦ OUR ADVERTISERS KEEP US ON THE AIR! ✦Support them if you can.The attorneys at MAPLES, TUCKER, AND JACOB fight for working people. Let them represent you in your workplace injury claim. Mtandj.com; (855) 617-9333The MACHINISTS UNION represents workers in several industries including healthcare, the defense industry, woodworking, and more. iamaw44.org (256) 286-3704 / organize@iamaw44.orgDo you need good union laborers on your construction site, or do you want a union construction job? Reach out to the IRONWORKERS LOCAL 477. Ironworkers477.org  256-383-3334 (Jeb Miles) / local477@bellsouth.netThe NORTH ALABAMA DSA is looking for folks to work for a better North Alabama, fighting for liberty and justice for all. Contact / Join: DSANorthAlabama@gmail.comIBEW LOCAL 136 is a group of over 900 electricians and electrical workers providing our area with the finest workforce in the construction industry. You belong here. ibew136.org Contact: (205) 833-0909IFPTE - We are engineers, scientists, nonprofit employees, technicians, lawyers, and many other professions who have joined together to have a greater voice in our careers. With over 80,000 members spread across the U.S. and Canada, we invite you and your colleagues to consider the benefits of engaging in collective bargaining. IFPTE.org Contact: (202) 239-4880THE HUNTSVILLE INDUSTRIAL WORKERS OF THE WORLD is a union open to any and all working people. Call or email them today to begin organizing your workplace - wherever it is. On the Web: https://hsviww.org/ Contact: (256) 651-6707 / organize@hsviww.orgENERGY ALABAMA is accelerating Alabama's transition to sustainable energy. We are a nonprofit membership-based organization that has advocated for clean energy in Alabama since 2014. Our work is based on three pillars: education, advocacy, and technical assistance. Energy Alabama on the Web: https://alcse.org/ Contact: (256) 812-1431 / dtait@energyalabama.orgThe Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union represents in a wide range of industries, including but not limited to retail, grocery stores, poultry processing, dairy processing, cereal processing, soda bottlers, bakeries, health care, hotels, manufacturing, public sector workers like crossing guards, sanitation, and highway workers, warehouses, building services,  and distribution. Learn more at RWDSU.infoThe American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE) is the largest federal employee union proudly representing 700,000 federal and D.C. government workers nationwide and overseas. Learn more at AFGE.orgAre you looking for a better future, a career that can have you set for life, and to be a part of something that's bigger than yourself?   Consider a skilled trades apprenticeship with the International Union of Painters and Allied Trades. Learn more at IUPAT.orgUnionly is a union-focused company created specifically to support organized labor. We believe that providing online payments should be simple, safe, and secure.  Visit https://unionly.io/ to learn more.Hometown Action envisions inclusive, revitalized, and sustainable communities built through multiracial working class organizing and leadership development at the local and state level to create opportunities for all people to thrive. Learn more at hometownaction.orgMembers of IBEW have some of the best wages and benefits in North Alabama. Find out more and join their team at ibew558.org ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

How's your Middle Grade March been going? I'm here with a VERY special guest. She is one of my favorite middle grade authors: Ann Braden! Today, we celebrate the power of middle grade novels. You'll learn about her unexpected backstory, the pieces of her life found inside all three of her books and how her books have become movements. Ann's energy is contagious and you won't want to miss her enthusiasm for all things middle grade. You'll find the show notes for this episode here. Love this podcast and want more? Consider this your invitation to join my Get Lit(erate) Patreon community! Each month, we take a deep dive into one bookish theme and work to bring it to life in our own lives. You'll get bonus episodes, book calendars, live book club and notebook sessions, special events and much more. Learn more at www.getliterate.co. Follow Stephanie: Website Facebook Twitter Instagram

On this week's episode of Currently Reading, Kaytee and Meredith are discussing: Bookish Moments: reader profiles on Instagram and connecting authors and readers Current Reads: we are revisiting some authors that we've read before, sometimes successfully, sometimes not. Deep Dive: the items we have on our bookish bucket lists. What do we want to “achieve”? Book Presses: an oldie but goodie mystery and a graphic novel As per usual, time-stamped show notes are below with references to every book and resource we mentioned in this episode. If you'd like to listen first and not spoil the surprise, don't scroll down!  New: we are now including transcripts of the episode (this link only works on the main site). These are generated by AI, so they may not be perfectly accurate, but we want to increase accessibility for our fans! *Please note that all book titles linked below are Bookshop affiliate links. Your cost is the same, but a small portion of your purchase will come back to us to help offset the costs of the show. If you'd prefer to shop on Amazon, you can still do so here through our main storefront. Anything you buy there (even your dishwasher detergent!) kicks a small amount back to us. Thanks for your support!*   . . . . :30 - Currently Reading Patreon 1:55 - Bookish Moment of the Week 8:50 - Bear Necessity by James Gould-Bourn 11:11 - Current Reads 11:36 - The Interpreter of Maladies by Jhumpa Lahiri (Meredith) 13:38 - Roar by Cecelia Ahern  15:01 - The Namesake by Jhumpa Lahiri  15:50 - Arsenic and Adobo by Mia P. Manansala (Kaytee) 15:57 - Season 3: Episode 44 17:19 - Finlay Donovan is Killing It by Elle Cosimano 19:38 - Never Saw Me Coming by Vera Kurian (Meredith) 21:10 - The Shelf Subscription from Bookshelf Thomasville  22:34 - The Talented Mr. Ripley by Patricia Highsmith 24:12 - Wish You Were Here by Jodi Picoult (Kaytee) 27:34 - Small Great Things by Jodi Picoult 28:23 - The Man Who Died Twice by Richard Osman (Meredith) 28:41 - The Thursday Murder Club by Richard Osman 33:39 - The Flight of the Puffin by Ann Braden (Kaytee) 34:13 - Hidden Figures by Margot Lee Shetterly 37:02 - Deep Dive: Our Bookish Bucket Lists 38:31 - The Count of Monte Cristo by Alexandre Dumas 39:51 - Parnassus Books 40:03 - An Unlikely Story bookshop 40:10 - Diary of a Wimpy Kid by Jeff Kinney 40:22 - Powell's Books 40:28 - Strand Bookstore 40:42 - Fabled Bookshop 41:07 - BookPeople 45:50 - Wolf Hall by Hilary Mantel 46:19 - The Eighth Life by Nino Haratischvili 46:37 - Gone with the Wind by Margaret Mitchell 46:38 - Roots by Alex Haley 46:50 - Les Miserables by Victor Hugo 47:38 - The Woman in White by Wilkie Collins 49:20 - Blackwell's bookshop 51:01 - Books We'd Like to Press Into Your Hands 51:44 - Original Sin by P.D. James (Meredith) 54:16 - Cover Her Face by P.D. James  54:32 - The Flight of the Puffin by Ann Braden 54:35 - New Kid by Jerry Craft (Kaytee) 55:05 - El Deafo by Cece Bell 55:19 - Class Act by Jerry Craft Connect With Us: Meredith is @meredith.reads on Instagram Kaytee is @notesonbookmarks on Instagram Mindy is @gratefulforgrace on Instagram Mary is @maryreadsandsips on Instagram currentlyreadingpodcast.com @currentlyreadingpodcast on Instagram currentlyreadingpodcast@gmail.com Support us at patreon.com/currentlyreadingpodcast

Welcome to Nutmeg Book Drops: Middle School Edition, a podcast produced by Librarians ConneCT. Librarians ConneCT is a group of public and school librarians from throughout the state of Connecticut. Each week, we'll discuss two of the 2022 Intermediate Nutmeg Nominees, perfect for readers in grades 7-8. If you want to learn more about the books being discussed, listen to the first few minutes of the podcast for a preview. When we get to our spoiler discussion, just pause the episode and head to your local library to pick up a copy of the books. Rejoin us when you're finished to hear our thoughts. We'd love to hear from you! Email us at librariansconnect@gmail.com or find us online at bit.ly/librariansconnect. This episode features a discussion of The Benefits of Being an Octopus, written by Ann Braden and published by Penguin and Pet by Akwaeke Emezi and published by Make Me a World. We are also joined by author Ann Braden for an exclusive interview. Please note that all ideas and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the individual presenting them and in no way reflect upon our libraries or Librarians ConneCT. This podcast is not sponsored by or affiliated with any specific library, author, publisher, or other entity.

Special guest Tok Star Librarian, Amanda Hunt, is booktalking YA and Middle Grade novels! She is bringing rom-com and feel-good stories with Of Princes and Promises by Sandhya Menon and Flight of the Puffin by Ann Braden. Booktalks you won't want to miss!

Today we get to chat with my friend, Ann Braden — activist, founder of several grassroots organizations, podcaster, teacher, and author! I read (and cried over) an excerpt from her new book, Flight Of A Puffin, last week. Today we talk to Author Ann about bringing characters to life, loving them, and giving them hope. About raising a book up with a village to support you. About reading with kids across the country. And more! Join us for our Summer Writing Salons!  www.readtomepod.com/gateless-writing-salons

Ann Braden made a book out of heartstrings and glitter. FLIGHT OF THE PUFFIN, for middle-grade readers, is both tough and whimsical, following four young people who are hurt and alone — until one tiny, delightfully illustrated act of kindness connects them. Changes them. Changes their communities. Lifts them up. Do you know how rare that is, to make a book about moral courage and love that feels like a hummingbird? Ann Braden did, and we get to love why. And cry big, sloppy, happy heart tears.

On this episode… we have Ann Braden!!!! Ann is one of my favorite authors, and she’s also a former Vermont The post #vted Reads: Flight of the Puffin appeared first on Innovative Education in VT.

Books/Resources mentioned in this episode: Ann Braden's Flight of the Puffin, @ctcasl, Laura Tierney's The Social Institute, nErDcampCT, Clubhouse (ask me if you'd like to be invited!) --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/valerie-dilorenzo/message

Mrs. van Kan and Mrs. Peel share the newly voted Virginia Readers' Choice Award (VRCA) winning book! They also discuss how the VRCA process works and the 10 titles nominated for this school year. These titles are listed below, along with their availability on Hoopla at the Prince William County Library. Episode Resource List: 2019 - 20 VRCA Middle School Award Winning Book: Restart by Gordon Korman 2020 - 2021 VRCA Nominees New Kid by Jerry Craft (available as an audiobook and eBook at the PWC Library) The Benefits of Being an Octopus by Ann Braden (available as an audiobook and eBook at the PWC Library) It's Trevor Noah: Born a Crime: Stories from a South African Childhood (Adapted for Young Readers) by Trevor Noah The Remarkable Journey of Coyote Sunrise by Dan Gemeinhart (available as an audiobook at the PWC Library) Ghost Boys by Jewell Parker Rhodes Deep Water by Watt Key Breakout by Kate Messner Game Changer by Tommy Greenwald (available as an audiobook and eBook at the PWC Library) The Bridge Home by Padma Venkatraman Resist: 35 Profiles of Ordinary People Who Rose Up Against Tyranny and Injustice by Veronica Chambers

This episode my dad and I discussed one of my all-time favorite books - The Benefits of Being an Octopus by Ann Braden. We talk about our favorite parts, what the book is about, why we recommend it, and the impact of a teacher in the book. We also mention the fact that is a heavy read, but a very good book and we recommend it! Listen to find out more about the book! Don't worry - no spoilers! Hope you enjoy the episode! Listen, rate, share! Remember to email me at RiyaRamblings@gmail.com about your favorite book. If you do not have an email account, you can also tweet to my dad on twitter at @hschhaya

Ann Braden (@annbradenbooks) shares THE BENEFITS OF BEING AN OCTOPUS. This is a story about the strength of a 12-year-old girl named Zoey, even from before the moment when she realized she possessed such strength. It is a story about the things people tell us about ourselves and others, and how those things can become truths if we believe them, for good or for harm. It is a story about depending on someone to provide for you, and being taken advantage of and degraded because of your dependence. But most of all, it is a story that is true for many, many children and families. And it’s on us to see these children. It’s on us to see these families. You can access even more information about this book and its author by visiting www.matthewcwinner.com/podcast. Thank you to this week's sponsor: Libro.fm And to the generous support from our Patrons.

In this episode, Saadia Faruqi will share recommendations for picture books about people of color living regular lives, and Ann Braden will share her conversation with Dr. Krista Aronson, founder of the Diversity Book Finder.

Today, Saadia Faruqi will share recommendations for picture books about grief  and then Ann Braden will share her conversation with educator, Jillian Heise, founder of #ClassroomBookaDay, an initiative encouraging educators to read aloud one picture book a day in their classrooms.

In Episode 20, Saadia Faruqi will share recommendations for books that take place in other parts of the world. Then, Ann Braden will share her conversation with educator Jen Vincent about the Identity Unit she used with her students to begin the school year.

This one goes deep, folks. On this episode educator Corey Smith joins me to talk about The Benefits of Being an Octopus, by Ann Braden. We talk glitter and posterboard, coffee and peanut-butter smoothies, and using the Equity Literacy Framework to dismantle inequality in our systems of learning with both students AND adults. What might … Continue reading #vted Reads: The Benefits of Being an Octopus → The post #vted Reads: The Benefits of Being an Octopus appeared first on Innovative Education in VT.

This is Episode 19, our first episode of season 4. Today, Saadia Faruqi will share recommendations for books that have a theme of perseverance. Then, Ann Braden will share her conversation with the School Library Journal news editor Kara Yorio who recently wrote an article about students facing housing insecurity.

Welcome to Season 2!  This summer, school librarians, shared their best suggestions, tips and tricks for building relationships, managing your time, prioritizing, programming and a librarian's mindset!     I would like to thank composer Nazar Rybak at Hooksounds.com for the music you’ve heard today.   New on the Job: A School Librarians Guide to Success 2nd edition 5 Tips for New School Librarians (and those who aren’t so new) 3 Strategies for a First-Time Librarian 10 Tips for New School Librarians! 15 of the Absolute Best Podcasts for Children’s Books   My Powtoon for my students My Powtoon for my teachers and principal   Books Between Podcast with host Corrina Allen The Children’s Book Podcast Hosted by Matthew Winner Kidlit These Days with Karina Yan Glaser and Matthew Winner The Yarn with Travis Jonker and Colby Sharp Scholastic Reads with Suzanne McCabe kidlit women* with Grace Lin and Alvina Ling Book Club for Kids with Kitty Felde Lifelines: Books The Bridge the Divide with Ann Braden and Saadia Faruqi

In segment two of the special Courage to Create episode Bethany recorded live during her Write. Submit. Support. class’s summer retreat, the group of writers delve into what drives their literary lives at the moment and what, if anything they’d like to change about that. How can community help our work? Why is it so important to balance craft techniques like pace and structure with the emotion of the story? How do we unblock ourselves when we’re creatively stuck? The writers explore all these topics as they continue on with writing exercises meant to unlock and investigate these areas of the literary life. Bethany also gives a shout out to middle grade author Ann Braden, who was a Courage to Create guest on episode 52, and her heartfelt debut, THE BENEFITS OF BEING AN OCTOPUS, and how much Ann overcame to get that book out into the world. The group discusses the importance of sharing your struggles with your writing community as a way to lessen their impact. Listen also to part one if you haven’t already, and be sure to find out more about The Writing Barn’s online Write. Submit. Support. programming at http://www.thewritingbarn.com/upcoming-classes/#online

Ann Braden writes books about kids struggling to find their voice amidst the realities of life. Her debut middle grade novel THE BENEFITS OF BEING AN OCTOPUS was listed as one of NPR’s Best Books of 2018, received a starred review from School Library Journal, and was described by Newbery award-winner Karen Hesse as “a compassionate look at poverty, hard choices, and defending one’s right to be treated humanely.” Ann founded GunSenseVT, a grassroots group focused on championing the common ground on the issue of guns in Vermont, and she also founded the Local Love Brigade, which now has chapters all over the country sending love postcards to those who are facing hate. Ann is a former middle school teacher, the co-host of the children’s book podcast, “Lifelines: Books that Bridge the Divide,” along with Pakistani American author Saadia Faruqi, and recently one of the co-organizers of #KidsNeedMentors. For more about Ann, go to her website at http://annbradenbooks.com/   In this episode, Bethany chats with debut middle grade author Ann Braden who had quite the journey to get her book published after her editor and everyone in the children’s division was fired from the publishing house! Because of that, Ann had to do almost all of the marketing for the book herself and make use of the power of word-of-mouth to get the books into readers' hands. But the book has taken off and is earning awards and accolades, and now Ann has two more middle grade novels coming out, both with Nancy Paulsen Books. The idea for the character of Zoey in THE BENEFITS OF BEING AN OCTOPUS came from Ann's students, 80% of whom qualified for free lunches. Ann realized these kids needed to see themselves in books, and Zoey and her story were born. Ann talks also about the ripple effect with doing good and being courageous and how her own anger has spurred her into action both as a writer and as an activist. Ann and Bethany also discuss courage and how it can be contagious in the best possible ways.  

This episode focuses on welcoming new Americans. Saadia Faruqi will share her book recommendations and then Ann Braden will share her conversation with Kirsten Cappy, the heart and brains behind the I’m Your Neighbor project as well as Curious City, which offers free kidlit programming for educators.

In this episode, readers discuss the social issues of Ann Braden's debut novel, The Benefits of Being an Octopus (Sky Pony Press, 2018). Topics discussed include poverty, belonging, and gun violence.

Today Saadia Faruqi will recommend some good books with African-American main characters, and then Ann Braden will share her conversations with three different educators, Chris Tuttell, Elizabeth Kyser, and Kerri Moccia, who all have found a way to get books into kids hands over the summer.

Join me as I address our role in promoting diversity in our collections, strategies for obtaining funding and sharing out resources and interviews from #MACUL19 I would like to thank composer Nazar Rybak at Hooksounds.com for the music you’ve heard today.   Lifelines with hosts Ann Braden and Saadia Faruki Book Riot: Presenting KidLit These Days 21 Books you Should Add to Your Library that Share Muslim Voices Rachel Mainero’s Innovative Learning Hub My presentation at MACUL RIP BookFlix: Now what? Dr. K. Mattson tinyurl.com/maculFRL (Future Ready Librarians) Dr. K. Mattson tinyurl.com/Pics4DigCit Dr. K. Mattson tinyurl.com/DigCitPicBooks Dr. K. Mattson tinyurl.com/HackDigCit (Digital Citizenship) Dr. K. Mattson homepage Ryan Lisek’s #MACUL19 Resources My Middle Level Mind Podcast with Ryan Lisek

I am thrilled to share that my guest this week is Ann Braden, author of one of my favorite middle grade novels of the year, The Benefits of Being An Octopus. Hand this book to fans of Wonder, Absolutely Almost, or Out of My Mind. And then if you are a parent, librarian, or educator–get another copy for yourself … Continue reading Ep. 21: Ann Braden, Author of The Benefits of Being An Octopus →

Grace Lin (@pacylin), award-winning author and podcast host, joins to share the origin of Kidlitwomen* and the Kidlit Women* podcast. There are a small handful of kidlit podcasts I listen to regularly and that continue to contribute to my professional growth and, quite frankly, I think help make me a better human being. LIFELINES: BOOKS THAT BRIDGE THE DIVIDE is one of those podcasts. Hosts Saadia Faruqi and Ann Braden share book recommendations from marginalized voices and experiences. They offer up insightful interviews. And I honestly walk away feeling like I’ve got another set of tools to make my library program even stronger and more inclusive. THE BEGINNING OF YOUR LIFE BOOK CLUB with Emily Akins is a new podcast on the block, but the exploration of literacy and building lifelong reading habits through the voice of an inquisitive host bent on lifelong learning is just something I’m so absolutely drawn to. BOOKS BETWEEN with Corrina Allen has been a mainstay on my podcast feed for years. What Corrina brings as a book advocate as well as an educator makes this a must-have resource for everyone working with middle grade readers, from teaching them to writing for them. And finally there’s THE KIDLIT WOMEN* PODCAST, the show that’s always at the top of my playlist, the one I cannot imagine this world without, the one that has started conversations that resonate, challenge, affirm, and inspire. You can access even more information about this book and its author illustrator by visiting www.matthewcwinner.com/podcast.

Two weeks ago, Saadia Faruqi and Ann Braden got to meet in person for the very first time, and they decided to interview each other to find out all the things they wanted to know — and hopefully that you wanted to know, too. So, this episode has no book recommendations and no separate segments — it’s just one meaty interview with two book people who care a lot about bridging divides.

Saadia Faruqi recommends culturally appropriate and non-traditional Thanksgiving books, and Ann Braden shares her interview with public librarian Sam Maskell. Finally, it concludes with information about the non-profit First Book, which works to get books into the hands of kids who can’t afford them.

This is the second part of our 2-part special on reaching kids in poverty. Saadia Faruqi recommends middle grade and YA books about the reality of poverty, and Ann Braden shares the conclusion of her conversation with 5th grade educator Kristin Crouch. Kristin is uniquely positioned to help us bridge the class divide having broken the cycle of generational poverty to become an educator. In this part of the conversation she shares some book recommendations of her own and talks about what teachers can do to be true allies for kids who are struggling.

Today's episode is part one of a two-part special on reaching kids in poverty. Saadia Faruqi will share recommendations of great picture books that discuss the realities of poverty. Then, Ann Braden will share the first half of her conversation with 5th educator Kristin Crouch. Kristin is uniquely positioned to help us bridge the class divide. She will discuss her experience growing up in a family struggling to make ends meet, how she broke out of the cycle of poverty, and how she now works to support her students who are dealing with the same struggles.

Saadia Faruqi shares recommendations for picture books featuring refugees and immigrants. Then, Ann Braden shares her conversation with public library director Laura Arnhold. Finally, we close with information about the Welcoming Library, a fabulous educational resource that brings communities together in conversation around the topic of immigration.

Saadia Faruqi discusses the book Wishtree by Katherine Applegate and gives recommendations for other books about welcoming those who have been made to feel like “an other.” Ann Braden shares her conversation with elementary librarian Christina Carter, and then talks about what we can do when people are unwelcoming to others.

Intro Hi everyone and welcome to Books Between - a podcast to help teachers, parents, and librarians connect kids between 8-12 to books they’ll love.  I’m your host, Corrina Allen - a 5th grade teacher, a mom of two girls who are 8 and 11, and feeling extraordinarily lucky on this Mother’s Day to have my mom in my life. And having a mother who is and has always been such a staunch supporter of my reading life.   This is Episode #49 and Today I’m discussing three new middle grade releases, and then I’ll share with you a conversation with authors Ann Braden and Saadia Faruqi from the Lifelines Podcast. Alright - announcements!  I hope you have been loving the May Middle Grade at Heart Book Club pick  Every Shiny Thing as much as I have.  Laurie Morrison and Cordelia Jensen will on the podcast soon so if you have a question you want me to ask them, please let me know! In June we’ll be reading The Mad Wolf’s Daughter by Diane Magras and July’s pick is Just Under the Clouds by Melissa Sarno. And - I hope you’ve been as inspired as I have by the Educator Spotlight interviews at the MGBookVillage site. We have lots more coming, so keep an eye out! A quick reminder that the outline of today’s interview and a full transcript of all the other parts of this show can be found at MGBookVillage.org - including links to every topic and book we mention. I know you are busy and I want to make it effortless for you to find things. Book Talk - Three Fantastic Spring Releases This week we are back to some book talks! And instead of having them fit a particular theme, I thought I’d simply share with you three really great recent releases from this past spring. They are Playing Atari with Saddam Hussein by Jennifer Roy & Ali Fadhil, Me, Frida and the Secret of the Peacock Ring by Angela Cervantes, and Rebound by Kwame Alexander. Playing Atari with Saddam Hussein Our first featured middle grade novel this week is Playing Atari with Saddam Hussein by Jennifer Roy with Ali Fadhil. This historical fiction novel is set in 1991 in Basra, Iraq - just as the United States is launching Operation Desert Storm. And it’s based on the true story of Ali Fadhil’s life as an ordinary 11 year old boy who loves playing video games and watching American TV like the The Muppet Show. But then, the bombings come and life for Fadhil and his family is becoming more and more bleak.   Here are three things to know about Playing Atari with Saddam Hussein: The main character does NOT actually play Atari with Saddam Hussein. Although as an adult, he does become a translator who ended up working at his trial. In the novel, one way that Ali copes is to imagine that he is playing Pitfall as he travels through his war-torn streets and also because some of the Americans dubbed it “the video game war” because the night-vision green streaks of bombs across the dark sky looked to them like a video game. That this book gives a much-needed window into a time-period that is often overlooked in children’s literature. We are now getting a lot of great books about 9/11 but the era of the Gulf War is still lacking. And many of my students’ parents are veterans of those wars so knowing more about the perspectives of an Iraqi child going through those experiences is important. And humanizes a group of people that some wish to label as enemies. How many similarities students will discover between themselves and Ali. Despite being set halfway around the world in a country the United States was at war with, Ali’s family plays Monopoly while they hide out waiting for the bombs to pass. Ali plays soccer and video games and collects American Superman comics. His sister has a Barbie Dreamhouse! Probably the same one I did with the elevator you pulled up with a little string. And I think back to when I was a teenager watching this war live on CNN with Wolf Blitzer and Bernie Shaw and I never would have realized the kids on the other side of those bombs were so much like me. Playing Atari with Saddam Hussein is a great book for 5th graders through middle schoolers who are interested in the real impacts of war, Iraqi history, or just want a good historical fiction book. And it would make a great complement to the many World War II novel studies out there to add a more modern perspective. Me, Frida and the Secret of the Peacock Ring A second great spring middle grade release is Me, Frida, and the Secret of the Peacock Ring by Angela Cervantes. You might know her work from her two earlier novels -  Gaby, Lost and Found and Allie, First at Last. This novel is a mystery and centers around a missing ring belonging to the artist Frida Kahlo. The main character is 12 year old Paloma Marquez, who begrudgingly travels with her mom from their home in Kansas City to Mexico City for 4 weeks of the summer. (Her mom is a professor and has a fellowship there.) Although Paloma’s father was Mexican, she doesn’t speak Spanish, she worries about missing out on fun with her friends, and she just doesn’t want to go. But…. on her first night in Mexico, she attends a reception at Frida Kahlo’s home - Casa Azul - and receives the following note from a mysterious boy.  Here are three things to love about Angela Cervantes’ Me, Frida, and the Secret of the Peacock Ring: I love how Paloma is inspired in this book by her favorite mysterious series starring Lulu Pennywhistle. And as she gets further and further into the thick of things with brother and sister Gael and Lizzie -  midnight break-ins, and secret rooms, and strange fortune-tellers - Paloma is always referencing Lulu Pennywhistle to figure out how she should proceed. All the Frida Kahlo!! When I found out this book had to do with my favorite artist - I knew I had to read it. And I was so happy to discover that this book does her such justice. Frida Kahlo’s paintings illicit such a visceral reaction from students and once you tell them a little bit about her life - how she painted her pain and made it beautiful - they are enthralled by her. And yes, some notice the exaggerated eyebrows first and some find it funny. But I like how Paloma discussed that at on page 119. How this book is really all about identity and belonging. Paloma’s father was Mexican but died before she could have her own memories of him. And she feels as if she is searching for that connection while she is in Mexico City.  And as Paloma learns more about Frida, she discovers how complex her life was - sometimes feeling torn between being an international artist and wanting the roots of her native Mexican heritage. Me, Frida, and the Secret of the Peacock Ring is a great book for kids who love art or travel, for kids who are intrigued by Mexican culture and the Spanish language - and for anyone who loves a great mystery! Rebound Last up this week is Kwame Alexander’s Rebound - the much-awaited prequel to the much-loved and much-awarded, novel-in-verse The Crossover. This book is all about Josh & Jordan’s father - Chuck “Da Man” Bell. But - this is an origin story. So when we first meet him, he is just Charlie - an 80’s kid reeling from a family tragedy and trying to find his way forward and trying to find his smile again. When home becomes tense, he is involuntarily shipped off to his grandparent’s house for the summer where he starts to find that path forward. Let me read you the first page…. Here are three things I loved about Kwame Alexander’s Rebound: The illustrations by Dawud Anyabwile. While The Crossover had black-out poems throughout the book, Rebound includes these awesome two-page spreads of these mini graphic-novel type sketches of Charlie’s basketball daydreams and wishes and memories. So so cool. And a great hook for kids who love the graphic novel format. The 80s vibe of this book!  Now, you all know I am sucker for 70s and 80s nostalgia! And this book took me back to skating parties and trying for that high score on the Pac Man machine at the rec center where ALL your friends gathered after school. But also - some things haven’t changed - like Black Panther and the Fantastic Four, the importance the right brand of shoes (and not those knockoffs your mom gets you), Strawberry Pop-Tarts, and your folks not letting you watch THAT video on MTV. Discovering all the little references and plot threads that will appear later in The Crossover. How Charlie becomes Chuck, the origins of his Basketball Rules, where his love of jazz came from - and boy it was NOT there at first! And… the little hidden surprises revealed toward the end about who some of the characters end up being in the later book. And I know there’s a ton more that I haven’t figured out yet - so for that reason alone, definitely a rich book to read with a friend or with a book club to mine and discuss all those little details. Rebound is a must-get for your classroom or library. And fans of The Crossover are going to absolutely relish this prequel. It’s a book you finish and want to immediately talk to your friends about. It’s not necessary to have read The Crossover first, but I think it’s a better and more enjoyable reading experience to read them in the order they were published. So The Crossover, the Rebound, and then go read Crossover again! Ann Braden & Saadia Faruqi - Interview Outline Our special guests this week are Ann Braden and Saadia Faruqi. Ann is the author of the upcoming middle grade novel The Benefits of Being an Octopus and founder of GunSenseVT.  Saadia is an interfaith activist and author of a new early chapter book series called Meet Yasmin. Ann and Saadia recently teamed up to launch a podcast - Lifelines: Books That Bridge the Divide. I have been loving their show and am so happy to be bring you this conversation. We chat about why they started a new kidlit podcast, their novels, how they make time for reading with their kids, and some secrets for the perfect French Toast.   Take a listen.. Lifelines Podcast Can you take a moment to tell us about yourself? I was so excited to see your new podcast, Lifelines, pop up in my Twitter feed a few weeks ago!  How did you two connect with each other and then how did the podcast start? What is your collaboration process like to produce the show? I know when I first started podcasting, it took a while to get into a groove… what mistakes have you made along the way? And what are some plans you have for the future of the podcast? So Ann - your pictures of your baby posed with the stuffed animals is adorable! So Saadia, I started following you on Instagram and realized that you and I share a love of French Toast. What is your secret for the perfect French Toast? Your Writing Life You both have children’s books coming out this year! Can you tell us about them and when they’ll be available? Your Reading Life What were some of your favorite or most influential reads as a child? I’ve realized that something we all have in common is that we have young children. I’m wondering - how do you foster that love of reading in your family? And how do you make reading a priority when family life can be so busy? What have you read lately that you’ve loved?   Thank You!   Links:   Ann Braden’s website - http://annbradenbooks.com Saadia Faruqi’s website - http://www.saadiafaruqi.com Ann on Twitter and Facebook and Instagram Saadia on Twitter and Facebook and Instagram   Books & Authors We Chatted About:   Witch of Blackbird Pond (Elizabeth George Speare) Fifteen (Beverly Cleary) Frog and Toad (Arnold Lobel) The High King Series (Lloyd Alexander) The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy (Douglas Adams) Homecoming (Cynthia Voigt)   The Famous Five (Enid Blyton) Nancy Drew (Carolyn Keene) Hardy Boys (Franklin W. Dixon) William Shakespeare   I Survived Series (Lauren Tarshis) Crenshaw (Katherine Applegate) Wishtree (Katherine Applegate) Orbiting Jupiter (Gary D. Schmidt) Okay For Now (Gary D. Schmidt)   Closing   Alright, that wraps up our show this week!   If you have a question about how to connect kids between 8-12 to books they’ll love or a suggestion about a topic we should cover, I would love to hear from you. You can email me at booksbetween@gmail.com or message me on Twitter/Instagram at the handle @Books_Between.   Books Between is a proud member of the Education Podcast Network. This network features podcasts for educators, created by educators. For more great content visit edupodcastnetwork.com   Thank you so much for joining me this week. You can get an outline of interviews and a full transcript of all the other parts of our show at MGBookVillage.org. And, if you are liking the show, please leave us some love on iTunes or Stitcher so others can discover us as well.   Thanks and see you soon!  Bye!  

In today's episode Saadia Faruqi will discuss the brilliance that is Jason Reynolds, and then Ann Braden will share her conversation with middle school librarian Mary Linney. Finally, Ann will reflect on the way we approach trauma at a personal and societal level–and what that means for the classroom.

In today’s episode, Saadia Faruqi shares some good novel-in-verse recommendations in her segment “Books You’ve Never Heard Of," and Ann Braden shares her conversation with Juliet Lubwama, a high school senior and 2017 National Student Poet. Finally, Ann shares an inspiring example of one way to approach poetry if the thought of writing it yourself triggers a certain terror.

Intro Hi everyone and welcome to the Books Between Podcast! I believe in the power of stories to brighten our world and spark change within ourselves.  My goal is to help you connect kids with those amazing stories and share inspiring conversations with the authors and educators who make that magic happen. I am Corrina Allen - a mom of two tween girls, a 5th grade teacher, and surrounded by slime. Oh. My. God. There is no escaping this stuff - it’s like a preteen version of The Blob with sparkles and glitter and sequins and now - foams beads! This is Episode #46 and today I’m sharing three books featuring the magical power of dogs, and then I’ll share with you a conversation with Karina Yan Glaser - author of The Vanderbeekers of 141st Street! Two quick announcements before we get started - the MG at Heart Twitter chat about  The Vanderbeekers of 141st Street is tomorrow night - Tuesday, April 3rd at 8pm EST using the hashtag #MGBookClub. And if you want to get ahead with your reading, the April Middle Grade at Heart Book Club pick is The Parker Inheritance by Varian Johnson and the May pick is Every Shiny Thing by Laurie Morrison and Cordelia Jensen. I was excited to have Laurie join me today to interview Karina and can’t wait to have her back to discuss her own debut. Book Talk - Three Novels Featuring the Special Magic of Dogs In this section of the show, I share with you a few books centered around a theme and discuss three things to love about each book.  This week I’ll be talking about three awesome middle grade novels about separation, unlikely friendships, and the special magic of dogs. Now I will admit up front that am not a huge dog person. I mean - a well-trained dog is an amazing pet, and I love visiting with my friend’s dogs but I am more than okay with not having one of my own. But these three books hit me hard - and if YOU love dogs, they will wend their way into your heart even more. The books this week are Good Dog by Dan Gemeinhart, Hello, Universe by Erin Entrada Kelly, and Granted by John David Anderson. Good Dog First up -  Good Dog! Just….wow - Dan Gemeinhart hits another one out of the park! He is already a favorite author of so many of my students, and I’m glad to have another title to recommend after they have finished Scar Island or Some Kind of Courage or especially - The Honest Truth. This novel has a slightly different feel than his previous books. It is told from the point of view of Brodie - a dog who we meet just after he’s entered the great beyond after his death. And as our Brodie figures out the rules of this new place, and makes some friends, he remembers more of his past life on Earth. And remembers the danger that his boy, Aidan, is still in. And Brodie has to decide whether to move on to that ultimate Forever or if saving his boy from that threat is worth the awful price he’ll have to pay to even attempt helping him. Here are three things to love about Good Dog: The afterlife concept in this book. So - I don’t believe in life after death, but if it existed - I would hope it’s like this one. Going to an in-between place, a passing-through place where peace will rise up to you through your remembering as the goodness in you shakes off the last bits of darkness and sadness until you can move on to that final Forever. Tuck. I loved this dog - this sweet can’t-stand-still, can’t-be-quiet, always-running heart of gold black pit bull who was a good dog - even when it was hard. This dog who maybe - sort of - sold a bit of his soul for a French Fry. (Hey, I can relate!) It’s hard to explain how much I came to love this book without giving away a major spoiler. And I had prided myself on the fact that even though others had warned me to have tissues handy, I was fine... no tears, just FINE. Until page 285 when I learned that tiny but significant detail about the narrator that had me a sobbing wreck and needing to reread the entire thing! Hello, Universe The second book I want to tell you about this week is the 2018 Newbery Award winner - Hello, Universe by Erin Entrada Kelly. This one has a special place in my heart because it’s a novel that my daughters and I experienced together. We listened to the audio book throughout December and January and grew so attached to - well, I was going to say, to all the characters in the book, but I’ll say all but one. Hello, Universe is a quietly powerful story told from the point of view of four children. Virgil Salinas, a shy and quiet boy who longs to be recognized as more than just the “turtle” of his family. And who wants to be friends with Valencia - the girl in his special needs class at school. His close friend is Kaori Tanaka who has this physic business for kids and who places a lot of stock in signs and horoscopes and telling fortunes and the concept of Fate. And the final of the main trio is Valencia Somerset, who loves nature and adventure and who is also deaf. She and Virgil attend the same school but haven’t really met. However, they’ve both met Chet Bullens - the school bully. The entire story takes place over the course of one day when at various times, all four children end up in the woods near their school. And one of them falls in an abandoned well. Here are three things to love about Hello, Universe. The blend of the mystical and the modern intertwined with Filipino folktales that really show the power of those stories across generations. And how those archetypes of heroes can inspire us to our bravery. Or as Virgil’s grandmother says, to discovering your inner “bayani” - your inner “hero”. Valencia! She was my favorite character - wise and clever and stubborn - and so attuned to others’ reactions to her deafness. Someone pointed out that hers is the only point of view told in the first person so maybe that’s why I identified so much with her. It’s a tiny moment but when she describes sneaking tupperware bowls of food into the woods to feed this poor stray dog, and how she never remembers to return them….. I felt like the author captured something so real there. I remember taking my mother’s measuring cups and spoons out to play in the dirt until suddenly we had none left. And there was this one summer where I fed this stray cat in our neighborhood for weeks...one can of tuna fish every day. I felt like there was something very true to preteens about that mix of compassion and cluelessness. The role of the dog in this book. Like I mentioned, Valencia has befriended this stray dog who lives in the woods. And he doesn’t play a huge part in the story - at first - but his role is crucial in surprising ways later on. He didn’t turn up when I thought he might. But I felt as though he could have known Brodie and Tuck from Good Dog. If you have kids who are looking for a fast-paced, action-filled novel, Hello, Universe isn’t that book. But it has wit and warmth and philosophical depth explored through really relatable and unique characters. I just loved it! Granted And the final book I want to talk about this week is Granted by John David Anderson. You probably know him from the incredible Ms. Bixby’s Last Day and Posted. Both of those novels were realistic fiction, male protagonists, with stories centered around school. Granted is totally different - it’s about a fairy named Ophelia Delphinium Fidgets. One of the dwindlingly few fairies in the Haven entrusted with the job of Granter - a fairy who ventures out of their safe community and into the dangerous human world to grant a wish. So - everyday, people wish on stars, or candles or wishbones - and each of those wishes (if they follow the rules) are entered into a lottery of sorts. But in the fairies’ world - their magic has been decreasing and the number of wishes they can grant has plummeted to the point where on Ophelia’s first day on the job only a handful are scheduled to be granted. So she has two problems on her mind - is the wish-granting system they’ve always followed breaking down and if so, what can they do to fix it? And… how to complete her mission to grant one lucky 13 year-old girl’s wish for a purple bike. All Ophelia has to do is fly to Ohio and find the nickel the girl used for her wish. But what should be a routine mission turn into this epic quest that has Ophelia questioning so much of, well - what she took for granted. Here are three things to love about Granted: The fairies’ names! They receive their middle name first - which comes from the plant where they were born. (Like Rose or Oak or Daffodil). Their last name is given by their Founder - the fairy who discovers the newborn sprite and oversees their early care and adds a name that expresses something about their personality. (Like Fidgets or Crier). And their first name is completely random. So you get names like our protagonist Ophelia Delphinium Fidgets, her best friend Charlie Rhododendron Whistler, May Rose Crier,  or...Gus Fothergilla Gaspasser! Sam!  The mangy, smelly golden-haired mutt who after first wanting to eat then chew then chase Ophelia, offers to help her track down the wish she must grant. And.. maybe get to eat some donuts along the way. Ophelia is definitely NOT into this arrangement. Their conversations are HILARIOUS!   Ophelia’s song. So - every fairy has a magical song that they can sing for a particular effect- perhaps enchanting the listener or having a more negative effect. And while most fairies opt for a traditional tune like “Greensleeves” or “Rolling in the Dew” or maybe even a Sinatra song, Ophelia’s song is….  oh I so want to tell you what it is! But you just have to read it! Let’s just say, it’s something more….modern! Granted and Good Dog, and Hello, Universe are three books that will cast a magical spell on your heart.   Karina Yan Glaser - Interview Outline Joining me this month for our Middle Grade at Heart interview with Karina Yan Glaser is author Laurie Morrison. We got an opportunity to sit down together last month to chat about brownstones, balancing your reading life, and of course - The Vanderbeekers! Take a listen... The Vanderbeekers of 141st Street CA: Can you tell us what this story is about? LM: I love that the book is so balanced between the Vanderbeekers and has five equally developed main characters. Was one of the kids especially challenging or especially fun for you to write? Do you have any advice for other writers who are working on stories with ensemble casts? CA: One of the things that made me fall so hard for this book was that vibrant Harlem, New York setting with Castleman’s Bakery and the brownstones and City College in the background…  Was the Vanderbeeker’s neighborhood modeled after your own? LM: I’ve seen many readers comment that the book feels classic or timeless or old-fashioned. What do you think it is about the book that makes it feel classic to readers? LM: I noticed that you created the wonderful illustrations inside the book. How did you decide to include those, and were they always a part of the manuscript? CA: I noticed that you have an adorable bunny! Can she do tricks like Paganini? Your Writing Life LM: I’m so excited that there are two more Vanderbeekers stories on the way! Did you always know there would be more than one book, and what has it been like to write more Vanderbeeker adventures? LM: I know you’re a contributing editor at Book Riot and write a weekly newsletter. That must mean you do a lot of reading and a lot of writing outside of your fiction! How do you balance those different kinds of book-related work? Your Reading Life Sometimes it only takes that one adult in a kid’s life to influence them as a reader - either in a positive way to spur them on and spark that passion in them, or sometimes to squelch it. CA: Was there an adult in your life who impacted you as a reader? LM: I think The Vanderebeekers of 141st Street would be a fabulous book to read aloud to kids. Do you have any favorite books to read aloud to your own kids or kids you’ve worked with in the past? CA: What have you been reading lately that you’ve liked?   Links: Karina’s website - http://www.karinaglaser.com Karina on Twitter and Instagram BookRiot’s Children’s Section Books & Authors We Chatted About: Charles Darwin’s Around the World Adventure (Jennifer Thermes) Grandma Gatewood Hikes the Appalachian Trail (Jennifer Thermes) The Penderwicks at Last (Jeanne Birdsall) Tuck Everlasting (Natalie Babbitt) See You in the Cosmos (Jack Cheng) Ginger Pye (Eleanor Estes) The Moffats (Eleanor Estes) The Hundred Dresses (Eleanor Estes) The Land (Mildred T. Taylor) Roll of Thunder Hear My Cry (Mildred T. Taylor) Every Shiny Thing (Laurie Morrison & Cordelia Jensen) They Say Blue (Jillian Tamaki) Front Desk (Kelly Yang) The Right Hook of Devin Velma (Jake Burt) Greetings From Witness Protection (Jake Burt) Closing Alright, that wraps up our show this week! If you have a question about how to connect kids between 8-12 to books they’ll love or a suggestion about a topic we should cover, I would love to hear from you. You can email me at booksbetween@gmail.com or message me on Twitter/Instagram at the handle @Books_Between. And - if you are wanting more discussion focused on middle grade, check out the new podcast called Lifelines: Books That Bridge the Divide hosted by authors Ann Braden and Saadia Faruqi. I’ll drop a link to their first two episodes in our show notes, and I am really excited to see more middle grade podcasts out there. Books Between is a proud member of the Education Podcast Network. This network features podcasts for educators, created by educators. For more great content visit edupodcastnetwork.com Thank you so much for joining me this week. You can get an outline of interviews and a full transcript of all the other parts of our show at MGBookVillage.org. And, if you are liking the show, please leave us some love on iTunes or Stitcher so others can discover us as well. Thanks and see you soon!  Bye!  

In Episode 1, Saadia Faruqi shares some good book recommendations about kids struggling with poverty in her segment “Books You’ve Never Heard Of.” Ann Braden shares her conversation with elementary school librarian, Eileen Parks. Many of the students that Eileen’s library serves come from families that are struggling to make ends meet. Also, since the majority of the community is white, children of color can easily feel isolated. She discusses some of the issues she faces in working to serve all of her students. Finally, Ann will reflect on the power of stories in bridging the class divide.

Ann Braden comes to the studio for a live interview. We talk about democracy, prescription drug bills in the legislature, gun legislation, and the EmergeVT program. ALL GREAT!