Podcasts about middle grade

Slippery slope? More like cold mountain. Today we are talking about The Slippery Slope by Lemony Snicket. In this one the Baudelaires encounter some old enemies, some new friends and another large amount of birds. If you like secret fridge messages, forks, and babies who know what lox is then this is the book for you!WARNING: child abuseBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/book-cult--5718878/support.

Old timey carnivals meet old timey roman entertainment. Today we are talking about The Carnivorous Carnival by Lemony Snicket. If you like the horrors of 1930s carnivals and the horrors of forcing wild animals into captivity for entertainment then this is the book for you. PT Barnum got nothing on Olivia. WARNING: child abuse, animal abuse, murderBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/book-cult--5718878/support.

Brenna and Joe check out Sharon Draper's Out Of My Mind (2010) about Melody, a non-verbal girl with Cerebral Palsy who wants to be able to communicate more than anything.Unlike so many other books about disability, however, this isn't a book about how Melody changes the world...and it's better for it!Plus: exceptional Middle Grade fiction; resisting the temptation of a fantasy ending; and garbage children and systemic barriers.Wanna connect with the show? Follow us on Instagram and BlueSky @HKHSPod or use the hashtag #HKHSPod:> Brenna: @brennacgray> Joe: @bstolemyremote (Instagram) or @joelipsett (BlueSky)Have a mail bag question? Email us at hkhspod@gmail.com Theme music: Rewind Kid "Rhythm Revolution" Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Mamas are manifesting summer with two new Middle Grade books that will inspire parents and teachers during break. Whether you're an outdoorsy type or a science geek or both, the Mamas have adventure stories that will keep your kiddos entertained.   Book Chat:Wilderness Hacks by Joslin BrorsenFound Sound by Meg Wolitzer and Charlie Panek www.twolitmamas.com

Does a heart-shaped balloon cure your disease? Maybe. Find out by listening us talk about The Hostile Hospital by Lemony Snicket. In this one we get a half fancy hospital, a procedure that probably won't cure you, and a man with glasses the size of a pea.WARNING: kidnapping, child abuse, attempted murderBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/book-cult--5718878/support.

Submit to Season 4 Courage Files Here What does it take to keep believing in a story through rejection, rewrites, and years of uncertainty?Middle grade author Shafaq Khan joins me to talk about her debut novel, Zaina: Lost and Found, a historical adventure inspired by the real-life Hippie Trail through Pakistan, Afghanistan, Iran, and Turkey in the 1970s. We discuss balancing research with fast-paced storytelling, writing about identity and belonging, and the emotional resilience required to survive the long road to publication.Shafaq also shares the behind-the-scenes reality of querying, revising after difficult feedback, finding community, and learning to trust her voice as a writer.If you're deep in the messy middle of your own writing journey, this conversation is a reminder that persistence matters—and sometimes the long road is part of becoming the writer you're meant to be.Timestamps 00:00 – Grounding Through Story 07:12 – The Premise of Zaina: Lost and Found 11:42 – Research vs. Storytelling 24:07 – Querying and Rejection 30:00 – Tough Feedback and Big Rewrites 35:12 – Learning to Trust Her Voice 41:59 – Advice for WritersLinks Mentioned:Shafaq Khan WebsiteInstagramTiktok SCBWIHave a comment or idea about the show? Send me a direct text! Love to hear from you.Support the show To become a supporter of the show, click here!To get in touch with Stacy:Email: Stacy@writeitscared.cohttps://www.writeitscared.co/wishttps://www.instagram.com/writeitscared/Take advantage of these Free Resources From Write It Scared: Download Your Free Novel Planning and Drafting Quick Start Guide Download Your Free Guide to Remove Creative Blocks and Work Through Fears

More like the crow community? corvid crew? fowl family? murder municipality? corvid city?Today we are talking about The Vile Village by Lemony Snicket. This time the kids are working as maintenance for an entire town full of crows (and people). If you like thousands of rules, birds always being in your way, and hot air ballons that never come down, this is the book for you!Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/book-cult--5718878/support.

In the third and final episode of this series with Kaela Rivera, Jason Conforto, Chad Morris, and Shelly Brown talk about writing horror for middle grade readers. Kaela and Shelly both have novels in the genre, and they discuss how to balance scares with heart, tension with age-appropriate storytelling, and what makes spooky stories resonate with younger audiences. It's a fun and insightful conversation about crafting chills for young readers.

In this episode of The Growing Readers Podcast, host Bianca Schulze sits down with award-winning author and illustrator Philip C. Stead to talk about A Potion, a Powder, a Little Bit of Magic: Or, Like Lightning in an Umbrella Storm, his uproarious debut middle grade novel from Neal Porter Books.Best known as the Caldecott Medal–honored creator behind the Amos McGee books, Philip shares what it felt like to step into the novelist's chair and why middle grade has always been the genre closest to his heart. He traces his love of books like The Phantom Tollbooth, The Westing Game, and Roald Dahl, and pulls back the curtain on his writing process—200 words a day, carved in stone—and the feedback that led him to tell Bernadette's story out of order.Whether you're a parent hunting for funny middle grade books for kids 9–12, an educator drawn to stories that trust young readers, or a writer curious about how a picture book creator builds his first novel, this episode is a celebration of heart, humor, and why every choice matters.Read the transcript on The Children's Book Review (coming soon).Highlights:From Picture Books to Middle Grade: Why Philip felt like an "imposter" stepping into the novelist's chair—and why middle grade has always been his first love as a readerThe Books That Made Him a Reader: How Roald Dahl, Norton Juster's The Phantom Tollbooth, and Ellen Raskin's The Westing Game shaped his sense of what a book can do200 Words a Day: Philip's deceptively simple writing practice and how he treated each word as if "carved in stone"The Out-of-Order Revelation: How one friend's honest feedback unlocked the book's unusual structure—and why he never looked backA Castle on 24 Goats: Where Bernadette, Adelbert the forgetful magician, and a Boat That Does Not Grant Wishes actually came from24 Chapters, 24 Morals: Why Philip gave himself this arbitrary boundary, and the throwaway phrase that became his favorite of them allHeart Over Cleverness: The guiding principle that kept the book from feeling "cute but dead"The Influence Nobody Knows: The lesser-known Norton Juster book Philip discovered at 19 that became the most important influence of his careerNotable Quotes:"A thing stored in the brain is never as important as a thing stored in the heart." — from A Potion, a Powder, a Little Bit of Magic"Cleverness belongs mostly to the maker and really can't belong much to the person experiencing the art. But heart really can." — Philip C. Stead"If you're a writer and you're listening to this, just figure out how you write and how you do it. How do you put one word in front of another, in front of another? And whatever that answer is, that's the right way to do it." — Philip C. SteadBooks Mentioned:A Potion, a Powder, a Little Bit of Magic: Or, Like Lightning in an Umbrella Storm by Philip C. Stead: Amazon or Bookshop.orgA Sick Day for Amos McGee by Philip C. Stead and Erin Stead: Amazon or Bookshop.orgThe Phantom Tollbooth by Norton Juster: Amazon and Bookshop.orgAlberic the Wise, and Other Journeys by Norton Juster: Amazon and Bookshop.orgThe Westing Game by Ellen Raskin: Amazon and Bookshop.orgA Barrel of Laughs, A Vale of Tears by Jules Feiffer: Amazon and Bookshop.orgSylvester and the Magic Pebble by William Steig: Amazon and Bookshop.orgSwimmy by Leo Lionni: Amazon and Bookshop.orgThe Twits by Roald Dahl: Amazon and Bookshop.orgThe Puppets of Spelhorst by Kate DiCamillo: Amazon and Bookshop.orgAbout Philip C. Stead: Award-winning author and illustrator of picture books, including the Caldecott Medal–winning A Sick Day for Amos McGee and A Home for Bird. A Potion, a Powder, a Little Bit of Magic is his debut middle grade novel. He lives and works in Michigan. Visit him here: https://www.numberfivebus.com/Credits: Host: Bianca Schulze | Guest: Philip C. Stead | Audio Editor: Kelly Rink | Producer: Bianca SchulzeEpisode Sponsor: https://www.rickwilliamsbooks.com/

The Mamas are bringing the mayhem with ghosts, goddesses and general goofiness in newish Middle Grade and YA books. The Mamas may be in their crone era but they can still vibe with the best. Book Chat:X Marks the Haunt by Lindsay Currie. (ages 8-12)Persephone's Curse by Katrina Leno (ages 13 & up)www.twolitmamas.com

The Mamas discuss Middle Grade books set in hauntingly realistic dystopian worlds, but don't worry, the kids are okay. In fact, they work together to save themselves and expose the bade guys, a powerful lesson for us all. Middle Grade Book Chat:Beasts by Ingvild Bjerkeland, translated by Rose HedgerAway by Megan Freeman, a companion to Alonewww.twolitmamas.com    

What is a Vice Principal if not the Vice President? Today we are talking about the fifth book in The Series of Unfortunate Events, The Austere Academy by Lemony Snicket. In this one our orphan friends finally get to make some orphan friends of their own! But then Count Olaf shows up :( and makes them run laps :( :( Listen to hear all the wild, crab related details!WARNING: death, kidnappingBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/book-cult--5718878/support.

Where is OSHA when you need them? Today we are talking about The Miserable Mill by Lemony Snicket, the fourth book in The Series of Unfortunate Events. And these events do be unfortunate. Listen to find out about eye shaped buildings, lack of labor laws, and a man with a name so hard to pronounce he doesn't even want you to try. Remember, it's not polite to look at a lady's legs.WARNING: child abuse, deathBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/book-cult--5718878/support.

Some kids dream of being a zookeeper when they grow up. Others dream of becoming a writer. Well, author and animal conservationist Tina Strachan ended up doing both! In this episode, she shares her passion for wildlife and how she ended up scoring a book deal for her Wilder Zoo series – with book 3, Neeka and the Great Search out now. She also shares her writing routine and experience working with a professional illustrator. 00:00 Welcome06:45 Writing tip: Carry a tiny book around11:26 WIN!: The Angry Wives Club by Gabbie Stroud12:57 Word of the week: ‘Spicate’13:22 Writer in residence: Tina Strachan15:09 Wilder Zoo series overview17:20 Tina’s favourite koala fun fact18:19 Wildlife career origins21:54 The role of zoos and conservation25:05 Turning point to getting into writing27:02 Building a daily habit27:37 Entering a CYA competition31:22 Connecting with a publisher33:03 From samples to a series35:12 Courses and gaining confidence36:55 Building her author website 38:25 Writing routine and its evolution42:07 School visits and writing festivals42:57 Illustrator collaboration44:52 Next books47:08 Tina shares some writing advice49:11 Final thoughts Read the show notes Connect with Valerie and listeners in the podcast community on Facebook Visit WritersCentre.com.au | ValerieKhoo.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, author/illustrator Philip Stead takes us behind the scenes of his first middle grade novel, A POTION, A POWDER, A LITTLE BIT OF MAGIC.

Send us Fan MailDebut middle-grade novelist N. West Moss says revision is the whole game. She talks about discovery drafts, middle drafts where she tries to accomplish goals, and then polishing drafts. She also talks about winning at writing every day not by putting a certain number of words on the page but by doing anything related to writing such as reading books, editing a section, or simply thinking about her characters. Finally, we talk about how compassion is key in the classroom and gratitude is the key to life.Support the show

Kirkus young readers' editor Laura Simeon suggests three middle-grade audiobooks that invite listening across generations, beginning with Anna James's Alice With a Why, where Kristin Atherton's graceful, finely tuned narration captures both the whimsy and emotional intelligence of this return to Wonderland. Jodi Meadows' Confessions From the Group Chat offers a sharply observed look at middle-school dynamics, with Eevin Hartsough delivering a natural, conversational performance that makes Virginia's missteps feel immediate and deeply human. And in Relic Hamilton, Genie Hunter, British author and former Children's Laureate Joseph Coelho narrates his own fast-moving, imaginative adventure with energy and warmth, anchoring its time travel and mythmaking in a voice that feels personal and inviting. These are three engaging middle-grade stories, elevated by narrators who bring clarity, nuance, and a strong sense of voice to every moment.    Audiobooks Discussed: Alice With a Why by Anna James, read by Kristin Atherton (Listening Library) Confessions From the Group Chat by Jodi Meadows, read by Eevin Hartsough (Recorded Books) Relic Hamilton, Genie Hunter by Joseph Coelho, read by Joseph Coelho (Dreamscape)   Support for Behind the Mic comes from HarperCollinsFocus and HarperCollinsChristianPublishing, publishers of some of your favorite audiobooks and authors, including Colleen Coble, Mark Harmon, Jennie Allen, Max Lucado, Lysa TerKeurst, and many more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Mamas are a little cranky but they pull it together to bring you one fantastic Middle Grade series, one middle of the road cozy murder mystery, and one skip-it fantasy series in honor of Middle Grade March. They were slightly disappointed with some of their picks but you won't be disappointed with the delivery. As usual, the episode is a rollicking coffee talk with your besties.Middle Grade Book Chat:Last Resort, the Claiming by Jasmine WargaLiar's Society series by Alyson GerberSecrets of the Broken House by Taryn Sounderswww.twolitmamas.com    

Send us Fan MailFull Transcripts available at http://www.valeriefentress.com/blogIn this episode of Bookworthy, host Valerie interviews author Lara d'Entremont about her YA fantasy novel, The Painted Fairy Tale. The story follows 17-year-old Wren, who discovers her paintings can open portals to other worlds, leading her on an adventurous journey. Lara shares her inspiration, writing journey, and the message she hopes young readers take away from her book.The Painted Fairytale Book (affiliate link)Lara d'EntremontDon't forget to join in the Middle Grade March Madness. Fill out your bracket and follow the fun as you, the reader, help BookWorthy choose the #1 Middle Grade book for ages 8-12.Follow over on YouTubeTakeawaysArt can open portals to new worlds.Creativity is a powerful tool for self-discovery.YA novels can tackle complex themes.Fantasy allows exploration of real-world issues.Writing can be a therapeutic practice.Art serves a purpose beyond practicality.Stories are formative and impactful.Fiction can provide a creative escape.Persistence is key in writing.Artistic expression is valuable.Chapters00:00:01 Introduction to The Painted Fairy Tale00:01:48 Lara's Writing Journey00:03:50 Inspiration Behind the Story00:06:45 The Message for Young Readers00:10:02 Lara's Favorite Books and Influences00:17:13 What's Next for Lara d'EntremontLet's discover great books together!Follow for more:FB: @bookworthypodcastInstagram: @bookworthy_podcastYouTube:  BookWorthy Podcast - YouTubetiktok: @valeriefentress

Curbside recycling in New Orleans may soon disappear. Mayor Helena Moreno floated the possibility of eliminating it as a potential cost-saving measure to help deal with a massive budget deficit. This is despite the fact that New Orleans was poised to participate in a universal recycling initiative, which would have been fully funded. Katie Jane Fernelius has been reporting this story for Verite News. She joins us with more. Louisiana author Rachel Marsh is coming out with her second middle grade novel. Titled, “Grandpere's Ghost Swamp,” the story follows a 12-year-old girl who explores the bayou as a way to reconnect with her Cajun roots. The novel also focuses on coastal restoration, which continues to be a major issue in the state.Marsh tells us now more about her novel, and reconnecting to her Cajun heritage through her writing. The Gulf South has some of the strictest laws when it comes to losing one's right to vote and getting that right back. Some Mississippi lawmakers have been trying to change that for several years now in the state, but measures continue to fall through.The Gulf States Newsroom's Elise Gregg takes a look at how that affects Mississippians and what could be next.—Today's episode of Louisiana Considered was hosted by Karen Henderson. Our managing producer is Alana Schreiber. We receive production and technical support from Garrett Pittman, Adam Vos and our assistant producer, Aubry Procell. You can listen to Louisiana Considered Monday through Friday at noon and 7 p.m. It's available on Spotify, the NPR App and wherever you get your podcasts. Louisiana Considered wants to hear from you! Please fill out our pitch line to let us know what kinds of story ideas you have for our show. And while you're at it, fill out our listener survey! We want to keep bringing you the kinds of conversations you'd like to listen to.Louisiana Considered is made possible with support from our listeners. Thank you!

Send a textFull Transcripts available at http://www.valeriefentress.com/blogIn this episode of Book Worthy, host Valerie speaks with author Dorina Lazo Gilmore-Young about her journey as a children's book author, focusing on her latest work, 'Kailani's Gift.' They discuss themes of perseverance, family, and cultural diversity in literature, and the importance of storytelling in teaching children values. Dorina shares her experiences in writing and her passion for promoting multicultural stories, emphasizing the significance of empathy and understanding through literature. The conversation also touches on Dorina's upcoming projects, including a journal on grief and collaborative efforts by authors to celebrate diversity. Home - Dorina Lazo Gilmore-Young Kailani's Gift (affiliate link)Don't forget to join in the Middle Grade March Madness. Fill out your bracket and follow the fun as you, the reader, help BookWorthy choose the #1 Middle Grade book for ages 8-12.Follow over on YouTubeTakeawaysDorina's book 'Kailani's Gift' emphasizes perseverance and family values.The journey of writing 'Kailani's Gift' took over 10 years.Children can learn important values through storytelling.Multicultural stories help children appreciate diversity.Collaboration among authors can enhance the literary community.Cultural traditions can be integrated into family life.Storytelling is a powerful tool for teaching empathy.Grief can be addressed through writing and journaling.Diversity in literature reflects God's creation.Children's literature should represent various cultures.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Dorina Lazo Gilmore-Young01:20 The Journey of Writing Kailani's Gift03:23 Themes of Perseverance and Family in Kailani's Gift07:33 The Importance of Multicultural Stories11:23 Celebrating Diversity in Literature14:35 Cultural Traditions and Family Connections17:40 The Power of Storytelling19:04 Upcoming Projects and Grief Journey20:43 Conclusion and ResourcesLet's discover great books together!Follow for more:FB: @bookworthypodcastInstagram: @bookworthy_podcastYouTube:  BookWorthy Podcast - YouTubetiktok: @valeriefentress

https://melaniehill.au/Listen to Melanie on the Story Nerd Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/5VpT4dT2aev91ri2zylSv1?si=5584f2280cc244b4Melanie Hill, author of the middle grade novel Jet Cooper, shares her journey from an Air Force career to becoming an author of children's literature. Inspired by her aviation background, she explores themes like grief, perseverance, and the thrill of flying in her book. Hear about her insights into self-publishing and how she connects with young readers through her storytelling. This episode is perfect for librarians, educators, and anyone interested in middle grade and children's literature, offering valuable perspectives on nurturing young readers and the importance of diverse stories in the face of challenges such as book bans.

Send a textIn this episode of Bookworthy, host Valerie interviews Mark Wainwright, an author and editor with over 18 years of experience in Christian publishing. They discuss Mark's latest book, "Awesome Facts About Space," which combines science and faith to engage young readers. The conversation covers fascinating space facts, the integration of faith and science, and Mark's personal writing journey.Mark Wainwright | Your Writing & Editing MentorDon't forget to join in the Middle Grade March Madness. Fill out your bracket and follow the fun as you, the reader, help BookWorthy choose the #1 Middle Grade book for ages 8-12.Follow over on YouTubeTakeawaysMark Wainwright has over 18 years of experience in Christian publishing.His book 'Awesome Facts About Space' combines science and faith for children.The book is divided into five sections covering various space topics.Pulsars are city-sized stars that spin incredibly fast, up to 700 times per second.Mark emphasizes the importance of faith in understanding the universe.He shares a personal story about feeling God's love while stargazing.Mark believes that creation draws us closer to our Savior.He discusses interesting space facts that didn't make it into the book.Mark's writing journey began with journaling during his family's missionary work.He aims to provide engaging books that point readers to the Savior.Chapters:00:00:01 - Introduction to Mark Wainwright00:00:45 - Awesome Facts About Space00:02:07 - Faith and Science in Harmony00:03:39 - Mark's Writing Journey00:09:33 - The Power of StorytellingLet's discover great books together!Follow for more:FB: @bookworthypodcastInstagram: @bookworthy_podcastYouTube: BookWorthy Podcast - YouTubetiktok: @valeriefentress

Send a textIn this episode of Bookworthy, hosts Valerie, Shaun Stevenson, and Brock Eastman discuss the Parable Port series, a middle-grade book that brings biblical parables to life through engaging storytelling. They explore the creative process behind the book, the importance of collaboration, and the relatable characters that resonate with young readers. The authors share their journey of writing together, their passion for creating quality content for children, and their plans for the series.Parable Port: The Sower's Secret (affiliate link) Welcome to Brock Eastman shaunstevensonbooks.comDon't forget to join in the Middle Grade March Madness. Fill out your bracket and follow the fun as you, the reader, help BookWorthy choose the #1 Middle Grade book for ages 8-12.Follow over on YouTubeTakeaways Parable Port is a unique blend of mystery and biblical parables.The target audience for the book is middle-grade readers aged 8 to 12.The authors emphasize collaboration and teamwork in their writing process.They aim to create relatable characters that resonate with children.The series started as a picture book and evolved into a middle-grade novel.The authors enjoy a fun and humorous writing dynamic together.They focus on making biblical teachings organic to the story.The inclusion of Silky Chickens was a humorous suggestion from their editor.The authors believe in the importance of quality Christian literature for kids.They have plans for future books beyond the current series.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Parable Port and Its Authors03:25 The Concept and Themes of Parable Port09:38 The Collaborative Writing Process14:27 The Impact of Teamwork in Writing17:08 Personal Influences and Impactful Books18:35 Future Plans and Upcoming Projects Let's discover great books together!Follow for more:FB: @bookworthypodcastInstagram: @bookworthy_podcastYouTube: BookWorthy Podcast - YouTubetiktok: @valeriefentress

In this episode of The Growing Readers Podcast, host Bianca Schulze welcomes acclaimed children's book author and retired philosophy professor Claudia Mills to discuss her hilarious, heartfelt new middle grade novel, Calliope Callisto Clark and the Search for Wisdom.Claudia shares how her decades of teaching philosophy finally collided with her lifelong passion for children's literature—and how a girl with a very big name, a very big personality, and a very beloved dog became the perfect vessel for bringing Socrates, Plato, and Epictetus to young readers.From writing one hour a day with an hourglass to championing the humanities at a time when they're under siege, Claudia reveals why wisdom truly belongs to everybody, how she crafted a character who genuinely needs philosophy rather than just stumbling upon it, and why Epictetus—a formerly enslaved Stoic philosopher—might be the most relevant thinker for an eleven-year-old living today. Whether you're a parent of a kid who's been called "too much," an educator looking to bring critical thinking into the classroom through story, or a reader who has ever felt like they're living their own Greek tragedy, this conversation is a warm and wise celebration of seekers everywhere.Read the transcript on ⁠The Children's Book Review (coming soon)⁠.Highlights:Dinner with a Philosopher: Why Claudia would invite Epictetus over Socrates or Plato—and what that reveals about the heart of the bookThe Hourglass Method: How writing exactly one hour a day—timed with an actual hourglass—has powered 60+ books over decades, and why stopping is just as important as startingA Character Who Really Needs the Wisdom: Why Callie's high emotional stakes—lose the philosophy, lose the dog—made her the ideal guide through big philosophical questionsAncient Ideas, Modern Kids: How the Ring of Gyges, Socratic ignorance, and Epictetus's two-bucket theory of control translate naturally into an eleven-year-old's very real problemsThe Philosophy Club: Why Claudia designed an adult mediator into the story—and how even the most reluctant seekers end up finding their way inSTEAMH, Not STEAM: Claudia's passionate case for putting the humanities back at the center of education—and why philosophy is the original critical thinking courseA Love Letter to Seekers: What a Kirkus review got exactly right, and why the community of people asking hard questions might be the most powerful community of allNotable Quotes:"True wisdom is learning how to live well." —Claudia Mills"Philosophers are the grownups who keep on asking the questions the other grownups have stopped asking." —Claudia MillsBooks Mentioned:Calliope Callisto Clark and the Search for Wisdom by Claudia Mills: ⁠Amazon⁠ or ⁠Bookshop.org⁠The Lost Language by Claudia Mills: ⁠Amazon⁠ or ⁠Bookshop.org⁠The Last Apple Tree by Claudia Mills: ⁠Amazon⁠ or ⁠Bookshop.org⁠About Claudia Mills:Claudia Mills is the author of more than 60 books for young readers, including the After-School Superstars chapter book series and the middle grade novels The Lost Language and The Last Apple Tree. A professor emerita of philosophy at the University of Colorado Boulder, she brings a philosopher's love of big questions and a lifelong reader's ear for language to every book she writes. Calliope Callisto Clark and the Search for Wisdom is a Junior Library Guild Gold Standard Selection. Visit https://www.claudiamillsauthor.com/Download the Calliope Callisto Clark and the Search for Wisdom Discussion Guide here.Credits:Host: Bianca SchulzeGuest: Claudia MillsAudio Editor: Kelly RinkProducer: Bianca Schulze

Send a textIn this episode of the Bookworthy Podcast, Valerie interviews children's author Bonnie S. Weinhardt about her Bingees series, which follows the adventures of an 11-year-old boy named Benji in the 1930s. They discuss the inspiration behind the series, the character of Benjy, and the themes of humor, faith, and decision-making in the stories. Bonnie shares her journey as a writer, the influence of her journalism background, and her future writing projects, including a young adult novel based on her life experiences.Benjy Book Series (affiliate link)Bonnie Swinehart: HomeDon't forget to join in the Middle Grade March Madness. Fill out your bracket and follow the fun as you, the reader, help BookWorthy choose the #1 Middle Grade book for ages 8-12.Follow over on YouTube Takeaways Bonnie's books aim to instill Christian values in children.The character Benji is relatable and humorous, appealing to young readers.Bonnie's journalism background helps her write concisely and engagingly.Humor is a key element in making stories memorable for children.The importance of community and support is a recurring theme in Bonnie's writing.Bonnie's writing journey began in her youth, fueled by a love for reading.The Benjy's series reflects the simplicity and challenges of childhood.Bonnie's future projects include a young adult novel based on her life.The impact of impactful books can shape a writer's perspective.Stories can provide hope and connection in difficult times.Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Benjy's Series02:34 The Character of Benjy and His Adventures05:08 The Influence of Journalism on Writing08:00 Themes and Messages in Benjy's Stories10:27 The Importance of Humor in Writing13:00 Bonnie's Journey as a Writer15:50 Impactful Books and Their Influence18:27 Future Projects and AspirationsLet's discover great books together!Follow for more:FB: @bookworthypodcastInstagram: @bookworthy_podcastYouTube: BookWorthy Podcast - YouTubetiktok: @valeriefentress

Send a textEpisode Summary In this Season 5 bonus episode, Beth McMullen and Lisa Schmid clear out their "insanely long" laundry list of burning topics. The duo discusses the restorative power of community, starting with Lisa's wildly successful brewery book swap on Reading Street. They dive into how simple, low-lift events can be the perfect antidote to a dark news cycle and offer tips on how you can start your own.The conversation moves into the digital space, covering the shift from Twitter to Threads and Blue Sky for monthly Kidlit chats. Finally, Beth and Lisa get serious about industry safety, offering a "buyer beware" guide to writing conferences and professional classes. They share advice on how to vet organizers, protect your investment, and ensure the event aligns with your specific writing goals.Key Topics CoveredThe Magic of the Book Swap: Why gathering "book people" in a local brewery proved to be exactly what the community needed.Low-Lift Event Planning: How to foster connection without the stress of high-stakes organizing.The New Digital Frontier: Navigating the monthly Kidlit community chats on Threads and Blue Sky.Conference Due Diligence: How to research writing events, check their track records, and avoid losing money on canceled "dream" conferences.Defining Your Purpose: Why knowing why you are attending an event (networking vs. craft vs. pitching) is the key to a successful investment.Resources & LinksThreads Kidlit Chat: Join the conversation every first Wednesday of the month.Blue Sky Kidlit Chat: Join the conversation every first Tuesday of the month.Writers With Wrinkles Facebook Group: Join our private community for publishing news and "well-rounded" writing advice. (Note: Please answer the entry questions to join!)Coming Up Next Week Don't miss our conversation with author Fleur Bradley, who returns to the show to discuss her brand-new writing craft book focused on the art of Middle Grade mystery! Support the show Visit the WebsiteWriters with Wrinkles Link Tree for socials and more!

Find the shownotes HERE.Super Hero Fiction for Middle GradeWhat if you found out you could control gravity—during a school vision test?What if your boring life suddenly launched you into a world of secret agents, superpowers, and flying possibilities?What if the only person who could help you master your powers… was also the person you were told to avoid?Guest Author: Meredith DavisBook: The Amazing Adventures of Noah Minor

Send a textIn this episode of Bookworthy, Valerie interviews Kayla E. Green, an award-winning YA fantasy author who has ventured into children's literature with her picture book 'Hadley the Hippo.' They discuss the inspiration behind the book, the importance of conversations about what children consume, both in terms of food and media, and Kayla's journey as a writer and teacher. Kayla shares her favorite books and their impact on her life, as well as what readers can expect from her upcoming projects.Hadley the Hippo is What She Eats (affiliate link) The Unicorn Writer – Faith. Fiction. Fireside Poetry.Don't forget to join in the Middle Grade March Madness. Fill out your bracket and follow the fun as you, the reader, help BookWorthy choose the #1 Middle Grade book for ages 8-12.Follow over on YouTube Takeaways Kayla's journey into writing began in elementary school.'Hadley the Hippo' is inspired by her daughter's love for food.Books can serve as conversation starters for families.It's important for children to understand what they consume mentally and emotionally.Kayla emphasizes the importance of teaching children to guard their hearts.She believes in the power of read-alouds for all ages.Kayla's teaching experience has shaped her storytelling.Different books impact us at different stages of life.Kayla's favorite books include 'The Girl Who Drank the Moon' and 'Matilda.'She is working on a young adult pirate fantasy and a sequel to 'The Goodness of Unicorns.'Chapters00:00 Introduction to Kayla E. Green and Hadley the Hippo01:49 The Inspiration Behind Hadley the Hippo04:55 The Message of Hadley and Its Importance09:14 Kayla's Writing Journey and Teaching Background14:48 Favorite Books and Their Impact20:15 What's Next for Kayla E. Green? Let's discover great books together!Follow for more:FB: @bookworthypodcastInstagram: @bookworthy_podcastYouTube: BookWorthy Podcast - YouTubetiktok: @valeriefentress

True North Country Comics Podcast chats with Dian Day and Amanda White about their new graphic novel The post Dian Day and Amanda White discuss new middle grade graphic novel appeared first on True North Country Comics.

Send a textIn this episode of Bookworthy, Valerie interviews award-winning author Sarah Philpott, who shares her journey from writing devotionals to creating children's books. They discuss Sarah's latest book, 'Wake Up, Little Seed,' which connects children with the growth process in nature while emphasizing God's role in it. The conversation also explores the creative process behind children's literature, the impact of teacher encouragement, and the importance of reading in family life. Moo, Moo Nap, Nap | Sarah PhilpottWake Up Little Seed (affiliate link)Don't forget to join in the Middle Grade March Madness. Fill out your bracket and follow the fun as you, the reader, help BookWorthy choose the #1 Middle Grade book for ages 8-12.Follow over on YouTubeTakeaways Sarah Philpott emphasizes the importance of God's presence in every detail of life.Her book 'Wake Up, Little Seed' aims to teach children about growth and God's role in it.Transitioning from writing devotionals to children's books has been a delightful journey for Sarah.Writing children's books is challenging due to the need for impactful storytelling in fewer words.Illustrations play a crucial role in children's books, enhancing the storytelling experience.Publishers often have a lot of heart and care about the details in book creation.Encouragement from teachers can significantly impact a writer's journey.Sarah's writing journey has been filled with constant project ideas and learning.Recent reads often leave a lasting impact on readers, shaping their thoughts and reflections.Reading together as a family is a vital activity that fosters connection and learning. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Sarah Philpott and Her Work01:56 Exploring 'Wake Up, Little Seed'05:43 Transitioning from Devotionals to Children's Books09:20 The Creative Process Behind Children's Books12:44 Sarah's Writing Journey and Inspirations16:30 Impactful Books and Their Influence18:18 Connecting with Readers and Future Plans Let's discover great books together!Follow for more:FB: @bookworthypodcastInstagram: @bookworthy_podcastYouTube: BookWorthy Podcast - YouTubetiktok: @valeriefentress

In this episode of the Book Faire Podcast, Anthony explores the latest in middle grade and children's literature, highlighting new book releases that delve into themes of cultural identity, grief, and historical narratives. The discussion extends to the critical issues of censorship and book bans in schools, focusing on inspiring student activism and librarian efforts to combat these challenges. Listeners will also learn about the Library of Congress's upcoming interactive learning space designed specifically for young readers. This episode is an essential listen for librarians, educators, and anyone passionate about supporting diverse children's literature and advocating against censorship in schools.New Releases:If This Were the World Stephen Barr, illus. by AG Ford (Ages 4-8)Each and Every Spark by Claire Swinarski (Ages 8-12)Goodbye, French Fry by Rin-rin Yu (Ages 8-12)Birdy by N. West Moss, with illustrations by Carrie Shyrock (Ages 10-14Postscript by Cory McCarthy (Ages 14+)

In this episode of The Book Faire, Greg Howard delves into his latest middle grade novel, 'The Visitors,' discussing key themes relevant to kidlit such as historical trauma and LGBTQ representation. He explores the importance of empathy in storytelling and addresses the challenges faced while writing during the pandemic. Howard reflects on his inspiration for the setting and character dynamics, emphasizing the role of modern technology alongside historical context. This conversation is especially valuable for librarians and educators seeking diverse and meaningful literature for young readers. Tune in for insights that spotlight representation and respect in contemporary children's publishing.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Book Release Context02:59 The Writing Journey of 'The Visitors'05:54 Setting and Inspiration Behind 'The Visitors'08:58 Modern Perspectives: Technology and Historical Context11:53 Character Dynamics and LGBTQ Themes14:50 Exploring Intersectionality and Historical Trauma18:02 The Role of Empathy in Storytelling20:48 The Importance of Representation in Literature23:53 Final Thoughts on Writing and Impact

Send a textWhat happens when a bestselling middle grade author joins you on World Read Aloud Day -- and opens the episode with a live read-aloud from his brand-new release?In this return conversation, James Ponti celebrates the book birthday of City Spies: Europa (Book 7!) and takes us behind the scenes of what it really takes to write page-turning mystery-adventure that kids don't just read, they inhabit.We talk about the research rabbit holes that make a story feel real (including the world's most expensive cup of tea!), the craft of writing dialogue that flows, and why the read aloud shouldn't stop in early elementary, especially for books that beg to be heard.You'll also hear why James believes hope lives in the reader community itself: kids who show up dressed as characters, remember details from five books ago, and prove, again and again, that middle grade readers are powerful.Favorite TakeawaysKids don't just read books, they live in them.The best middle grade is never “dumbed down.” Kids notice everything.The read aloud is still one of the strongest tools we have for motivation, stamina, and connection.Hope lives in communities of readers who show up, reread, and care deeply.Timestamps01:46 Special Read Aloud from the first chapter07:43 Behind-the-scenes research and inside jokes that add “richness” to the writing10:46 Middle grade growth: Sydney + Paris, insecurity, and learning to share what we carry12:57 Writing by ear: dialogue, flow, and reading drafts aloud 30+ times15:27 “Kids live in books”: fandom, rereads, deep questions, and catching mistakes28:35 Touring with author friends + building a wider reading life36:39 Hope: readers, community, and stories that model how people solve problems together40:36 What's next: Sherlock Society: Art Attack (graffiti in Miami!) Connect + MoreLearn more about James Ponti and check out his appearances on episodes 69, 98, and 119 of the Adventures in Learning podcastCheck out all of James Ponti's booksSign up for Dr. Diane's 365 Day Picture Book Read Aloud calendarSupport the showShare this episode If this conversation sparked wonder, gave you a helpful strategy, or offered a needed reminder of hope, please share it with a friend or colleague. Subscribe • Download • Review • Tell a friend 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.

Brenna and Joe kick off the first of three weeks on Percy Jackson and the Olympians with a look at Rick Riordan's second novel of the series: The Sea of Monsters.Up for discussion: new character Tyson (and what that means for Grover), Middle Grade writing structure, how the book renders Greek mythology accessible, and the very 2006 era inclusion of Confederate soldiers.Wanna connect with the show? Follow us on Instagram and BlueSky @HKHSPod or use the hashtag #HKHSPod:> Brenna: @brennacgray> Joe: @bstolemyremote (Instagram) or @joelipsett (BlueSky)Have a mail bag question? Email us at hkhspod@gmail.com Theme music: Letra “Like A Bird” Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Book 7 of James Ponti's City Spies series IS OUT TODAY!, so it's a great time to re-listen to our interview. Last week we heard part 1 and today it's part 2. In this part  we discuss his journey from screenwriting to becoming a successful author of middle-grade fiction. He shares insights into his writing process, the importance of creating relatable characters, and the joy of storytelling. James also offers valuable advice for aspiring writers, emphasizing the significance of writing daily and focusing on completion rather than perfection.For bonus content and info on upcoming episodes, subscribe to the Middle Grade Matters newsletter here: Newsletter, and follow us on Instagram, Threads, and Twitter.I love audiobooks! If you do, too, consider switching to Libro.fm, a platform that supports indy bookstores.If you're enjoying this podcast, please leave a rating and review (thank you!).

Send us a textWhat happens when young readers are invited to question the stories they've always been told?In this episode of the Adventures in Learning podcast, Dr. Diane Jackson Schnoor welcomes bestselling author Tracy Wolff to celebrate the launch of her middle grade fantasy debut, The Aftermyth. Together they explore how mythology, storytelling, empathy, and student identity come together in powerful ways, and why middle grade fiction plays a critical role in helping young readers discover who they are and where they belong.From challenging patriarchal myth narratives to reimagining Aphrodite through compassion and friendship, this conversation highlights how fantasy literature can spark critical thinking, emotional growth, and a love of reading.Perfect for educators, librarians, families, literacy advocates, and middle grade readers.Episode Chapters01:21 Building a New Mythological World at Anaximander's Academy03:12 Questioning History, Power, and Perspective in Stories07:13 Empathy, Friendship, and the Reimagining of Aphrodite10:12 Middle Grade Identity, Belonging, and Finding Your Voice13:29 Read-Alouds, Choice, and Building Reading Motivation18:32 Writing Middle Grade Fantasy and Keeping Kids Engaged19:49 What Brings Hope: Raising Compassionate ReadersWhat You'll Learn in This EpisodeWhy The Aftermyth challenges traditional Greek mythology narrativesHow middle grade fantasy supports identity development and belongingThe importance of empathy and compassion in children's literatureWhy read-alouds should continue beyond early elementary gradesHow student choice and format flexibility support reluctant readersHow storytelling builds motivation and reading staminaFeatured Book

Book 7 of James Ponti's City Spies series comes out February 10th, so it's a great time to re-air part 1 of our interview. James shares heartfelt stories about his teachers, particularly Mrs. White, who inspired him to become a writer. The conversation also touches on the importance of education and the impact of family on his path to success. James also discusses his journey as a writer, focusing on his experiences with the City Spies and The Sherlock Society series. He shares insights into his writing process, the challenges of balancing multiple series, and the inspiration behind his stories. Ponti emphasizes the importance of setting in his books, using real locations to enhance the narrative and engage young readers. He also explores the appeal of thrillers and mysteries, highlighting the interactive nature of these genres and his unique approach to blending different storytelling elements.For bonus content and info on upcoming episodes, subscribe to the Middle Grade Matters newsletter here: Newsletter, and follow us on Instagram, Threads, and Twitter.I love audiobooks! If you do, too, consider switching to Libro.fm, a platform that supports indy bookstores.If you're enjoying this podcast, please leave a rating and review (thank you!).

In this episode of Haunted History Chronicles, I'm joined by authors Andrea Janes and Leanna Renee Hieber, the minds behind America's Most Gothic, to explore the chilling truth behind Gothic tropes — and the real people whose lives were even darker than fiction.Fog-drenched mansions, oppressive family dynasties, forbidden rooms, madness, obsession and death… we tend to associate these with novels and cinema. But Andrea and Leanna reveal how many of the Gothic's most enduring themes are rooted in documented history, lived experience, and genuine tragedy. From vampire panics and cursed landscapes to women silenced, punished or driven to the edge, this conversation uncovers the unsettling overlap between reality, folklore and the supernatural and how these are not imagined horrors — they are echoes of lives shaped by fear, power, repression and loss.Brooding, atmospheric and deeply human, this episode asks why the Gothic continues to haunt us — and what it reveals about the darkness woven into history itself. Settle in… some stories are meant to linger.My Special Guests Are Leanna Renee Hieber and Andrea Janes:   Leanna Renee Hieber is an actress, playwright, artist and the award-winning, bestselling author of Gothic Victorian Fantasy novels for adults and teens such as the Strangely Beautiful, Eterna Files, Magic Most Foul and the bestselling Spectral City series. She grew up in rural Ohio inventing ghost stories, graduating with a BFA in Theatre and a focus in the Victorian Era from Miami University. Her books have been translated into many languages and have been selected for multiple book club editions. An enthusiastic public speaker about the history of the Gothic novel, she loves nothing more than a good ghost story and a finely tailored corset, wandering graveyards and adventuring around New York City, where she also works as a ghost tour guide for Boroughs of the Dead.Andrea Janes tells ghost stories for a living. She is the co-author of A Haunted History of Invisible Women and the owner and founder of Boroughs of the Dead, a boutique tour company dedicated to dark and unusual walking tours of New York City. She is currently at work on a Middle Grade historical fantasy novel set in New Amsterdam. Her personal obsessions include weird history, slapstick comediennes, witches, ghosts, all things nautical, and beer. She lives in Brooklyn where she can usually be found by the ocean or near a cemetery.If you value this podcast and want to enjoy more episodes please come and find us on⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.patreon.com/Haunted_History_Chronicles⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠to ⁠support the podcast, gain a wealth of additional exclusive podcasts, writing and other content.Links to all Haunted History Chronicles Social Media Pages, Published Materials and more:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/hauntedhistorychronicles?fbclid=IwAR15rJF2m9nJ0HTXm27HZ3QQ2Llz46E0UpdWv-zePVn9Oj9Q8rdYaZsR74I⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠NEWPodcast Shop:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.teepublic.com/user/haunted-history-chronicles⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Buy Me A Coffee⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://ko-fi.com/hauntedhistorychronicles⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Guest Links⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Websites:⁠ https://www.leannareneehieber.com/ https://boroughsofthedead.com/ Link To Book: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Americas-Most-Gothic-Haunted-Stranger-ebook/dp/B0DLQYQ8SP?ref_=ast_author_dp_rw&th=1&psc=1&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.Tfe2CbhauvI79PMeZoax5oJeBLDS6lgWTrfrorAjyYbTnh4LnoaqNYXDS9p3A0D0fSTJq5Xv0AhH5CP8KlAY4NaC5JEfQjb984-V4QxnaFLMNgRzQbjU4YXixVTN7OM7TvNMXpnIYyK6iznTDVCezw.t3aAtxJmgJ0_c4hspGHjj8k3H1dTpO-ERp7y6hiN_eE&dib_tag=AUTHOR 

If you spend a lot of time worrying about how to write the perfect opening chapter for your middle-grade novel or whether you should end your chapters on a cliffhanger, then you're going to love writing in scenes!In this episode, we'll cover:the difference between scenes and chaptersthree reasons why it's best to write in a series of scenes rather than in chaptersThis episode is the first in a mini series on writing scenes in middle-grade novels, so stay tuned to the podcast over the next few episodes to learn:how to write a solid scenethe elements that all scenes need to workwhen to write in scene and when to write in summaryFor show notes, transcripts and links mentioned in the episode, visit my websiteYou can also connect with me on InstagramHave something to say? Send me a message!

The episode opens with a look at current publishing news affecting authors, including reading behavior shifts and trends. Then we look at the three major stages of children's literature and why understanding developmental stages matters. Perfect for writers curious about children's books, writers who think they already understand the category, and anyone interested in how readers develop.

In the spotlight is Christopher Bodmann, who has always been captivated by the power of storytelling and his belief that stories exist to inspire, drive action and ignite passion. He uses fantasy elements to address real-world issues that middle-grade readers might face, aiming to create a meaningful connection to their lives. He is particularly passionate about encouraging middle-grade boys to become avid readers by incorporating “gateway” topics that resonate with their interests, while also ensuring his content appeals to all audiences.  Learn more about Christopher Bodmann and his books here: https://www.christopherbodmann.com  Novelist Spotlight is produced and hosted by Mike Consol. Check out his novels here: https://snip.ly/yz18no   Write to Mike Consol at novelistspotlight@gmail.com 

Make Morality Mainstream Again The adultification of teen fiction has intentionally Frankensteined books for teens into cesspools of ideological normalization. A while ago, I met a mother and her daughter, the latter of whom I hadn't seen in several years. On the cusp of turning twelve, she'd obviously grown in the time since, and, her mother proudly informed me, had become quite the reader. Indeed, the girl held quite a thick book in her hand. Which was it? The girl showed me the cover. I turned to the mother. “Do you know what your daughter is reading?” She'd figured telling her eleven-year-old she could read whatever was marked 14+ was a safe enough guardrail for appropriate content. As reading is an experience between book and reader, the mother wouldn't have seen what her daughter was taking in. She couldn't either know that her daughter's book was familiar not because it was something I'd read but because it was something I wouldn't. Worse, she thought she could trust the institution. THE READING DILEMMA Parents want kids to read, but as most can't keep up with their reading habits, they don't fully realize what's being allowed, even promoted, in books for young readers. As with other once vaunted institutions, the publishing world has morphed in ways many aren't fully aware of. Over a decade ago, I signed my first contract for Young Adult (YA) fiction. Before and since, I've watched the genre boom through the stages of audience demographic to viable business. Throughout, YA has expanded from books for teens to a genre unto itself, attracting talented writers, lucrative contracts, and the golden goose of Hollywood adaptations. YA is officially for readers 14-18 years (and up). However, as it's after Middle Grade (8-12 years), tweens are frequent readers, plus many eleven-year-olds reading up. There is “lower” and “upper” YA, but they're unofficial categories for libraries or writers specific about their target audience. Most retailers and publishers categorize all teen books under the general YA umbrella. NA, New Adult, mainly written for college-aged readers into their early twenties, is often sheltered under the YA umbrella too. Alongside the wider publishing industry, YA has changed significantly over the years, reflecting broader shifts in society. What follows isn't an analysis on talent or quality but content, as something about words in a book makes what's written more real, valid, romantic, admirable, aspirational. Thus, the intent is to shed light on some of the many topic and imagery that are included in books for young readers. At risk that this won't earn me any friends in publishing (at best), here's some of what I've seen: DEVOLUTION OF YA FICTION Growth of the YA audience/genre is an objective benefit, logical as it is to increase methods for targeting potential customers. As YA has increased in business and position, its morphing into genre unto itself has attracted many adults readers. As a YA author, I read mainly within my market and see the appeal for adult readers considering how well the genre's developed. The migration of older readers to YA is certainly one of the many reasons it's been so adultified. Other factors include the poisonous stranglehold ideological tentacles have on many aspects of culture, entertainment, and education. The shifts adults have finally caught onto in adult fiction and film have infected literature for younger audiences, picture books through YA. A quick example, originally, romantic comedies centered on a man and woman who clashed at the outset, then eventually found their way to each other at the end. The story would build to some romantic declaration, then a kiss. Anyone who's been watching knows that there's now a whole lot of touching that happens before any romantic declaration occurs. Longer, more frequent kisses are only second to scenes of the pair sleeping together before deciding how they really feel about each other. All this is becoming commonplace in YA. What was once cutesy stories about a high school girl chasing a crush has now become stories featuring a whole lot of other firsts, even seconds, and then some. The devolution of YA is a result of purposeful normalization and reshaping of societal norms through manipulatively emotional appeals by writers, agents, and editors. On average, books from larger publishing houses take roughly eighteen months to two years to evolve from contract to product on the shelf. To say, story trends are set in motion well before their rise in popularity. Whatever the view on agents as gatekeepers to the larger houses, publishers only publish so many books in a year, an amount significantly less than all the people who want to be published. Hence, agents act as preliminary filters for editors, whittling down potential authors to relatively more manageable numbers. An agent must really believe in a writer and project to nab one of those few spots. Like most creative fields, writing is highly subjective, so in addition to general quality, each agent and editor has preferences for stories they want to work with. They're also usually pretty clear about what they're looking for, so part of the progression of change can be traced back to what's being requested. CHARACTER INCLUSION CHECKLISTS When I first entered the “querying trenches,” wish lists from agents mainly specified genres and their various offshoots. Although ideologies make a home in all genres, most were subtler, more akin to a light sprinkling than the deluge of today. Within a few short years, wish lists changed. Unofficial “checklists” appeared in the now familiar cancerous categories of equity, representation, marginalization, and other socialist pseudonyms. Nonfiction for teens is dominated by activism, coming out, and adaptations of left-wing figures' biographies. Rather than prioritize quality, potential, uniqueness, the new gatekeeping is often focused on the inclusion of certain ideologies. For the first while, emphasis was on strong female characters, an odd request considering the YA market is dominated by female writers and readers. Previous character portrayal thus had little to do with some imagined patriarchal oppression. Now, female characters are “fierce”, projections of feminist fantasies celebrating girl bosses who are objectively pushy, uncooperative, obnoxious, self-righteous, and/or highly unrealistic. Somehow, they capture the most desirable love interest, a magical combination of masculinity and emotional vulnerability, who is inexplicably un-neutered by support of her domineering principles. Frequently, the girl makes the first move. Worse than overbearing feminism is unrealistic portrayals of a girl's physical abilities accompanied by most unsavory rage and wrath and anger. Supposedly, these traits aren't anathema to the gorgeous guys (when it is a guy) these girls miraculously attract. Unless there's a moth to flame metaphor here, it's a lie to pretend wrath is a healthy attraction. This well reflects the move away from what's become so-last-century stories featuring underdogs who searched deep for courage and heart to overcome challenges, raising up others alongside themselves. A time when character development focused on, well, character. More wholesome stories have been replaced with a self-proclaimed oppressed burning with self-righteous rage and violence. Such characters have seeped into fantasy for adults as well, most notably in armies featuring female combat soldiers and warriors without special powers, who somehow go toe-to-toe if not best male counterparts. Often this sort of matchup is shown as some cunning of smallness, agility, and destruction of arrogant male condescension. Never mind that such fighting is highly unrealistic, and any male is rightly confident if paired against a woman in physical combat. No amount of small body darting or ingenuity will save a girl from the full force of one landed male punch. The unquestioned portrayal of women able to best men in physical combat is worrying considering the real possibility of a reader confusing fact with fiction. Besides, a country which sends its women to war will no longer exist, as it's a country with males but not men. The current not-so-secret of major houses is that a book doesn't have a high chance of getting published if it doesn't check certain markers, especially for midlist and debut authors, though A-listers are not immune. A Caucasian is hardly allowed to write a story featuring a so-called BIPOC, but a straight author must somehow include the ever-expanding gay-bcs, and it must be in a positive light. Some authors were always writing these characters, which at least reflects acting of their own volition. For the rest, many didn't start until required. Because of the careful wording around these ideologies, many don't speak out against these practices so as not to appear hateful and bigoted. The mandated appearance of so-called marginalized and under-represented in stories lest the author risk erasing…someone, somehow also operates along these lines. Although, apparently, only very specific groups are at risk of disappearing. These standards are ridiculous in their least damaging iterations. How many so-anointed BIPOC were consulted over their standard portrayals? How can every individual of every minority be consulted for approval, and who chooses which faction decides? How many Latinos, speakers of gendered language, agreed to Latinx and Latine? Christian characters in mainstream publishing are rarely portrayed as steadfast believers or even rebels rediscovering faith. Jewish stories usually feature a character who's “lived experience” is assimilation, so the character is of a religion but doesn't represent it. A real portrayal of the true beliefs these characters come from would not align with the world mainstream publishing wants to shape. Even more ludicrous is that “disabled” and “neurodivergent” are considered identities, as if a physical or medical condition is cause for new labeling. The approach used to be that you are still you, worthy of respect and consideration, despite these conditions. In the glorified world of the self-hyphenate, the world of we-are-our-self-declared-identity, it's the foremost feature mentioned, with accompanying expectation of praise and exaltation, regardless of an individual's character or behavior. Don't confuse the argument against the labeling with the individuals, because they are separable. Worse than the tokenism is the reduction of individuals to secondary characteristics. Is this really the first thing you have to say about yourself, the most essential thing to know? When did it become norm to turn skin color or medical condition or physical ability into a character trait, the very notion of which says that anyone in this group must be viewed primarily through this lens, as if each is exactly the same? How myopic. How belittling. Following the cue set by movies, books for teens also morphed from cutesy rom-coms to ideological showcases. Unsurprisingly, there's been the introduction of the stereotypical gay best friend. Then storylines focusing on coming out or discovering someone close was gay, with accompanying template for writing them. The one coming out is always the strong one, the resilient one, though much language must be banned lest they be offended or erased, so their strength is dependent upon a carefully constructed bubble. Not only is inclusion necessary but happiness is the only possible, deliberately portrayed reaction. Never mind if some or all of it runs counter to a writer's religious beliefs. Moreover, “I'm not sure how I feel about this, but I'll still treat you with respect” was never an acceptable response. And it is an acceptable response in all manner of situations, unless you exorcise it in efforts to forcibly shape a particular worldview. Additionally, the attitude is that since you can't tell me who to love, and loving this person makes me happy, you must not only ally but champion me. Why is it offensive to present different acceptable, respectful reactions to teens? Who exactly is erased if this character isn't presented at all? As before, don't confuse the argument against mandate with the individuals. The contention isn't about love, but about religion protecting the sanctity of romantic relationships and marriage, a religious practice since the dawn of time, as seen across centuries and civilizations. Marriage is described as sanctified and holy, because it's Divine in nature, and thereby under the domain of the religious. If it's just a contract, then of course any government can regulate it. It’s disingenuous to deny that such enforcement clashes with the very nature of what writing is about. It shuts down discussion, then subverts it entirely by pretending there's nothing to debate. That shouldn't be a source of pride for publishing, but deepest shame. In their efforts to supposedly widen the window of story matter, they've narrowed the frames and tinted the panes to exclude suddenly unacceptable voices entirely. PORNOGRAPHY AND CONSENT Compounded upon all this, most books are no longer relatively clean romances building to a single kiss, as every stage of the relationship has become more explicit. Some scenes are akin to manuals, containing the sort of imagery once the sole province of steamy romances. When efforts are rightly made to remove these books from shelves, screeches of censorship! erasure! representation! resound. We wouldn't, and shouldn't, tolerate any adult approaching a kid on the street and telling stories with such description, nor should we allow it from close friends or family. Authors do not hold special status in this, no matter what the screechers screech. Taking such books off shelves isn't an indication of bigotry, intolerance, hatred, or erasure, but moral obligation. The counterargument from writers, agents, and editors is that explicit detail is necessary because of something to do with “lived experiences” and consent. First, if kids are doing it anyway, then adults definitely needn't assist. Second, consent is not quite the magical word society would have us believe. Third, “everyone has different experiences” is not a reason for writing graphic content, and the replacement of “intimacy” with “experience” is largely responsible for why relationships are in the gutter and leaving people unfulfilled. Intimacy is something private between two individuals; experience is a vague euphemism to pass off what should matter as transitory, despite irrevocable effects. It's difficult to imagine in an age when phones, cameras, and microphones track a person everywhere, but there was once an ideal called privacy, and the intimate was part of it. Pushback also leads to defenses of “sexuality,” another way of saying adults want to teach kids all kinds of ways to pursue these “experiences”. Changing the wording doesn't alter the nature but does allow immoral actors to force celebration of their fantasies and fetishes. The wrongness is incontestable, though not surprising from those who promote polyamory for teens and romantic relationships between humans and demons or other ungodly creatures. The feeble argument for writing scenes of teens sleeping together is they must see what consent looks like. Again, authors do not hold special status or exemption. There is no strong enough argument for writing scenes for teens in which one character undresses another and verbally asks permission every step of the way. Especially because the new trend seems to be the girl not only “consenting”, but also a burning I want this. If she wants, this wording implies, then she must have, abandoning all reason and morality. Consent has become an excuse for all sorts of undesirable, immoral, even illegal behavior, but mutual agreement is supposed to make it okay. This isn't the behavior we should be promoting for teens; we should be giving them better things, bigger ideas to think about. Worst of all, why is any adult writing about two sixteen-year-olds sleeping together? A teenager, no matter how mature, is still developing and while smart and clever not really old enough to fully understand what she's “consenting” to, and is probably being taken advantage of. We treat eighteen with the same magical power as consent, as if any age should be sleeping around, even if legalese only extends so far. Teen pregnancy, abortion overall, would hardly be an issue if everyone stopped sleeping with people they shouldn't. Any adherent to morality knows this, though morality is just another thing scuttled from teen fiction. G-dless ideology is the new morality; immoral, manmade gods have replaced G-d; lust is the new love; sexuality excuse for pornography; perceived racism and misogyny validation for violence and rage. Many are we who did not consent to this. These scenes are in teen films as well, though how many parents know this in an age of individual devices? Adults pretending to be teens take each other's clothes off before a camera for real tweens, teens, and/or adults to watch. Please explain in clear and simple language why this is not a form of pornography. What absolutely vital role does this scene have in advancing the story? Consent is not enough. Wanting is not enough. We're encouraging teens to turn their bodies into used cars, dented, scraped, scarred, and baggage laden, for what? Why is this hollowing out of self and morality good? This serves no benefit for teens and the overall state of relationships. Consent has become an excuse for all sorts of undesirable, immoral, even illegal behavior, but we're supposed to think that everyone agreeing makes whatever they agree to okay. It's incredibly obvious that feminism and the sexual revolution didn't free women, but chain them in a prison of animalistic, unsatisfying desire, dooming them to jadedness, frustration, and loneliness. But they're so responsible! So mature! By such logic, a responsible sixteen-year-old should be able to buy guns, alcohol, and drugs. But identity! No, identity doesn't mandate a book with graphic imagery, nor is it “sexuality” or “feeling seen” or any other term you hide behind. Witness the tattered remains of social morality that writers do not balk at writing this for teens. They should balk at writing this for anyone. Once we recognized that betterment came through battling temptations. It is not difficult to see how the enforced normalization of all this was also an effective ridding of undesirable shame. Not only have we banished feeling bad, we've enforced celebration of what shame once kept in line. But they'll never be prepared! How did any of us get here if none of this existed for millennia? But look at the sales! Many people also bought rock pets. Deviants and defenders will attempt to claim that (a) this sort of stuff always existed, which isn't really a reason for its continuance, and (b) previous generations were undoubtedly stifled in their inability to express their true selves. Perhaps. And yet, previous generations built civilization, with significantly less medical prescriptions too. Previous generations were better at family and community, meaning and purpose. We have “experiences.” But this is what married people do! Some writers introduce a faux or rushed marriage into the plot, perhaps because their weakening moral compass prevents writing an explicit scene between unmarried characters. Marrying the characters and making them eighteen doesn't magically okay writing this for teens. Everyone does it—indeed there are many common bodily functions which shouldn't be demonstrated in public—isn't either reason enough. Pressures to include these scenes is evidenced by authors long regarded as “clean” storytellers, authors who won't swear or indulge in graphic or gratuitous content, authors who clearly express Christian beliefs in their acknowledgements, writing them too. Would they give this book to their priest? To a young church member? Would they read the scene aloud for family or friends or the very teens they write for? If even the professed religious authors do not have the fortitude to oppose this, if even they can be convinced of the supposed validity, then gone is the bulwark protecting children from the psychological and moral damage resulting from these scenes. But inclusivity! We must reflect the world around them! Considering what's in these books, all should pray teens aren't seeing this around them. Either way, that doesn't excuse writing about it. Moreover, cries for inclusivity from those shutting down differing opinions are inherently without substance. True inclusivity is achieved when stories focus on universal truths and laudatory values shared by all. The fundamental argument is that “could” is not “should”, and the only reliable arbiter between the two is Divinely-based morality. Current permissiveness is only possible in a society which worked for decades to expunge religion from its vital foundational position and influence. The demonization piled atop its degradation was simple insurance that the moral truths of religion wouldn't interfere with the newly established secular order. We can still be good people, they claimed. Witness the tattered remains. Allowing, championing, this sort of writing has not made us better, and instead of listening to concerns, activists and proponents double down. Need you any proof of the separation between ethics and morality and elitism and academia, scroll through an article or two in defense of these scenes. The more “educated” the individual, the twisted the pretzel of rationalization. Rational lies, all of them. These lies are prominently center of the new crusade against so-called “book banning,” although the books are still available at retailers and publishers. Fueled by self-righteous hysteria, activists take great pride in influencing state legislatures to enact decrees against book bans in protection of “lived experiences,” representation, and the like. If a teen doesn't see two boys or girls or more sleeping together, so the thinking goes, then they face imminent, unspecified harm, never mind that their sacred voice has been quashed. They claim BIPOC and queer authors are specifically targeted, failing to mention it's the content not the author rejected. Somehow the bigots are the ones who don't want kids reduced to “sexuality”, while the tolerant are the ones who do. Need anyone ask if these protections extend to writers who don't align or even disagree with their worldview? I'd say these books are better suited for adults, but adults are despairing of the unreadability of books in their categories too. And that aside from the targeted “decolonization” of books and authors that adults, especially men, enjoyed reading. From the myriad of books extant, no plot was ever turned, no story ever dependent upon an explicit scene, in the bedroom or elsewhere. Neither does such render the work art or literature, but rather indecent and abhorrent. Parents struggle to encourage their kids to read when such are the books available. ELIMINATING THE WEST For some time, agents have specifically requested non-western narratives, histories, and legends. Atop the deteriorating state of the current education system, teens aren't being presented with a fictionalized character in history, which may thereby spark interest and curiosity in real history. No wonder they know so little of the past when they're not offered history at all. What does make it in represents very select time periods. Other permitted historical fiction is alternative histories where the past is magicked or reimagined, almost always in some gender swapped way. While alternative histories can be creative, the lack of regular historical fiction seems to indicate the only permitted history is a remade one. Otherwise, most of western history isn't on shelves because no one wants to represent it. Which means no one's fighting for it to be published. Which means young readers aren't given glimpses into the past that made this present and will highly influence the future. And this from those who claim large swaths of the population don't properly teach history. The same who pushed the fabricated and widely debunked lie that slavery was unique to the west, the only culture who actively sought to end it. The same who have yet to consider the absolute necessity of mandating schools to teach the true horrors of communism done right. The same who have a monochrome view of colonization and chameleon approach to the faux oppressed-oppressor narrative. A rather high volume of Asian-based stories, histories, and mythologies fill the market instead. The proliferation of Asian and other eastern fiction isn't objectively concerning, but it's deliberate increase alongside western stories' deliberate decrease is. It's less an expansion of viewpoints and more a supplanting of anything west. I grew up reading historical fiction, but there's a dearth on shelves for teen readers, who must see where we come from through the eyes of characters resembling our ancestors. Instead of walking through time in their shoes and understanding their struggles in the context of when they lived, we project modern ideologies upon the one protagonist somehow vastly ahead of her time. It's deliberately false and disconnects readers from the world that created the one we live in. Whatever your opinion of our world, it was formed in those histories, and we cannot appreciate the present without understanding the world that made it. MENTAL HEALTH Another major trend in teen fiction is the focus on the broad category of mental health, its emergence unsurprising considering the uptick in modern society. Whatever the viewpoint on diagnoses, the truth is that the ones calling for greater awareness have much to do with having caused the issues. Teens living in the most prosperous, free society that ever was should not have such measures of mental health struggles, yet they do. Skim the messaging of the last several decades and it's no wonder why. Teens are raised on a bombardment of lies and damaging viewpoints resulting in a precarious Jenga structure at their foundation. For decades they've been told they can sleep around without lasting consequence, negating the need to build deep, lasting, exclusive relationships. Families, a fundamental source of meaning and grounding, have been shoved aside for the faux glory of sleeping with whomever, whenever, and the new solution of “found family”. Just because a pill supposedly prevents biological consequences doesn't mean a different sort of toll hasn't been exacted. And that follows the perpetual degradation of dress, reducing the entirety of an individual to a form as valued or devalued as any other physical object. Added to the disrespect of the body is the incessant, unfounded claim that “climate change” is going to destroy the planet by…well, soon. Never mind that we're doing better than before, and all predictions have been proven wrong. Imagine what continual doom and gloom does to the mental state of a teenager already grappling with ping-ponging hormones, who should be presented with optimism for the future they're about old enough to create. Well, we have a pill for that too. Teens have been told the American dream is gone by those who set out to destroy it, that American greatness isn't worth dreaming about by those who recolored it a nightmare. Hobbies and collected skills, the work of their own hands, have been shunted for social media trends and unfettered internet access. Phones are given to younger and younger kids, so they don't grow up in the tangible, real world but an algorithmic, digital one. Inevitably, the worst of that world affects them. They're told that they're hated, feared for the way they were born. They're told they're not even who they've been since birth, basic facts purposely turned into issues and doubts to shake the foundation of self. Those most adamant about the contrived need for teens to discover identity are the most diligent at axing their very roots. The response to the mental health crisis, the jadedness, the internal turmoil they've helped facilitate by destroying the enduring, reliable fabric of society is to encourage more of the same empty, hollowing behaviors. Atop all this is never-ending rage, rage, rage. At the base is the deliberate removal of religion. No matter an individual's choice of observance, religion undeniably provides what liberal society and decadence cannot; meaning. Eternal, enduring meaning. The knowing that you're more than a clump of cells passing through this timespan, because you are an integral link in a chain reaching back millennia. Your ancestors didn't endure hardships or fight to build civilization so you could be the end of the line, but so you could gratefully take your place in it. You and your actions matter. Not because you're a political vote or celebrated community, but because you were made in the image of G-d Who woke you today as there's something only you can do in His world. What effect would the proliferation of this messaging in literature have on the mental state of the youth? And for those pontificating about diversity and inclusion, who in truth only want different skin colors espousing the same beliefs, there is no greater unifier than religion. Belief in a higher power unites individuals of different backgrounds, colors, and, most valuably, opinions, in ways no mandate or ideology ever can. While lengthy, the above in no way encompasses all the changes, reasons, and effects pertaining to the devolution of teen fiction. And, as the focus is not on talent but content, it can be shifted as easily as it was before. You may disagree with everything I've written. You may accuse me of jealousy, hatred, bigotry, racism, misogyny, xenophobia, erasure, et al. I only encourage you to look for yourself. Peruse bookstore aisles; click through new releases; check who's getting awards. What do your eyes see?

'm an award winning author of two books: ADVENT 9 and SECRET SKY: THE YOUNG UNIVERSE. My most recent book, SECRET SKY, has won multiple gold awards. At the 2025 IBPA awards, it won gold for best science fiction (an adult category, even though the book is Middle Grade) and also for best audiobook for Children or Young Adults. It also won the 2025 Readers' Favorite Gold Medal for Children's Adventure Fiction. I was one of the last authors ever to be mentored by David Farland, the NYT Bestselling Author and writing teacher of Brandon Sanderson, Stephenie Meyer, Brandon Mull, and James Dashnerhttps://www.amazon.com/Advent-9-T-Alan-Horne-ebook/dp/B0BBK4125Z/ref=sr_1_1?crid=4GUECLFRXHO1&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.locSu_hKsWl9tzfOhdOtzw.RHNu_9o0DNqQ69C8oL2875xj1OmbRHBUfgwU1kpY57o&dib_tag=se&keywords=advent+9&qid=1767039266&s=books&sprefix=advent+9%2Caps%2C182&sr=1-1Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/inspiring-stories--2917948/support.

Word count may seem like the least of your concerns when you're thinking about writing a middle-grade novel. You've got story type, plot, theme, character development, pacing, and who knows what else to consider, right?But here's the thing: knowing industry-standard guidelines for the length of a middle-grade novel, and having a target word count in mind before you start drafting can actually help you to outline, draft, revise and publish. In today's episode, we'll cover:the guidelines for middle-grade novel word countfour reasons why word count mattersIn the end, every author has the choice to watch word count or not, but it's a fact that word count matters, so make each word count! For show notes, transcripts and links mentioned in the episode, visit my websiteYou can also connect with me on InstagramHave something to say? Send me a message!

We're continuing our Best Books of 2025 coverage with a special episode dedicated to middle grade. First, Adam Gidwitz joins us to discuss Max in the Land of Lies: A Tale of World War II (Dutton, February 25). Then young readers' editors Laura Simeon and Mahnaz Dar discuss more of the year's best books.Thanks to our sponsors: The Tale of the Wicked Old Woman and the Very Nice 'Beast' of Crouch End by Lance Lee, illus. by Nathalie T. RetivoffPassages by P.K. EdgewaterEco Reign by L. GaluppoRom-Com for Dummies by Tom DiggsSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Send us a textIn this bonus episode of Writers With Wrinkles, Beth and Lisa talk with Adam Rosenbaum about how he blends laugh-out-loud comedy with emotionally meaningful storytelling. Writers will learn how humor lowers a reader's defenses, why kids crave funny books, and how to handle heavy topics without overwhelming young readers.Guest BioAdam Rosenbaum is the author of The Ghost Rules and the upcoming illustrated series Lawson History Stumbling Through Time (Sourcebooks, 2027). A former sawmill operator and draftsman, he now writes heartfelt, funny middle grade fiction in Nashville, where he lives with his family. Instagram: @rosenbaumwritesKey Discussion PointsWhy humor helps kids engage with challenging themesHow Amblin-era storytelling shaped Adam's voiceWriting comedy without talking down to readersLetting humor open space for grief, empathy, and emotional truth“Backpack books”: the titles kids reread and carry everywhereHandling heavy topics with care and clarityAdam's upcoming time-travel adventure seriesConclusionAdam reminds writers that humor isn't a lesser art—it's a bridge. When paired with heart and honesty, it helps kids navigate big feelings while keeping them invested in the story.

Marvel's Daredevil gets a new creative team. Rocketeer teams up with Amelia Earhart in new comic. Maia Kobabe publishes middle grade follow-up to Gender Queer.SUBSCRIBE ON RSS, APPLE, SPOTIFY, OR THE APP OF YOUR CHOICE. FOLLOW US ON BLUESKY, INSTAGRAM, TIKTOK, AND FACEBOOK. SUPPORT OUR SHOWS ON PATREON.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

The Mamas get cozy with their favorite topic, murder. From just okay assistants to dysfunctional families, the Mamas dig into Middle Grade, YA, and Grown Up books full of cozy vibes and mysteries to solve.    Book Chat:The Dysfunctional Family's Guide to Murder by Kate Emery ( Upper Middle Grade)The House Saphir by Marissa Meyer (YA)The World's Greatest Detective and Her Just Okay Assistant by Liza Tully (Grown Up)www.twolitmamas.com

It's back-to-school season, which means new routines, new books, and maybe even a little extra stress for kids (and the adults who love them). To help ease the transition, we're diving into comfort reads for Middle Grade and YA readers.  In this episode, Joe is joined by the incredible Rex Ogle, author of heartfelt and vulnerable stories for young readers. Rex opens up about his writing process, how books can help kids navigate tough times, the importance of watching for signs of bullying, and what's next for both him and his alter ego, Rey Terciero.  Then, in segment two, Joe and Meara share their latest Middle Grade and YA favorites—full of witches, hauntings, and just the right amount of spooky fun.  From meaningful conversations to magical book picks, this episode has something for everyone: whether you have kids in your life or you're a kid at heart.  Looking for the video version of our show? Check out the Libby App YouTube channel!  Link to our full book list:  https://www.libbylife.com/blog/back-to-school-back-to-books-comfort-reads-for-kids-and-their-grown-ups-book-lounge-by-libby-season-2-episode-2   Guest host recommendations:  Meara:  The Flicker – H.E. Edgmon  Lovely Dark and Deep – Elisa A. Bonnin  The Witch Boy – Molly Knox Ostertag    Joe:  Making Friends, Volume 1 – Kristen Gudsnuk  The Supernatural Society – Rex Ogle  The Okay Witch – Emma Steinkellner  Follow the guests & guest hosts:   Segment 1:  Rex Ogle – Website  Segment 2:   Meara (mearaisreading) - Links  Time stamps:  00:00:00 Title  00:00:22 Intro  00:02:25 Segment 1 – Back to School with Rex Ogle  00:52:54 Break – Check out our Book Lounge Merch!  00:54:38 Segment 2 Middle Grade & YA Recs with Meara  01:31:46 Outro  Readers can sample and borrow the titles mentioned in today's episode in Libby. Library friends can add these titles to their digital collections for free in OverDrive Marketplace and Kanopy. Check out our Cumulative List for the whole season, or this list for today's episode!  Looking for more bookish content? Check out the Libby Life Blog!  We hope you enjoy this episode of Book Lounge by Libby. Be sure to rate, review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen! You can watch the video version of our show on the Libby App YouTube channel. Keep up with us on social media by following the Libby App on Instagram!   Want to reach out? Send an email to bookloungebylibby@overdrive.com. Want some cool bookish swag? Check out our merch store at: http://plotthreadsshop.com/booklounge!  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices