Podcast appearances and mentions of Sharon Draper

“And I think that's what reading is… It's a personal interpretation of the story, and it may not be the same as somebody else's. That's the whole idea of a good teacher. There should be different interpretations, and sometimes a student will come up with something that I never thought of.” —Sharon M. Draper  Give a story to twenty kids, and you might get twenty different takeaways. Some will catch the details you didn't even notice. Others will pull out meaning that wasn't intentionally placed, but rings true all the same. Sharon M. Draper writes for everyone and fiercely advocates for students' right to read for themselves.Sharon knows the capacity of a book to transport and transform kids; she was the kid who maxed out her library card every Saturday at the Cleveland Public Library. She then became the teacher who read aloud to even the most skeptical students, and the writer whose bestselling novel "Out of My Mind," which was adapted into a film for Disney+ and remains requisite reading for many middle schoolers year after year. A two-time Coretta Scott King Award winner, Sharon is the author of "Stella by Starlight," "Blended," "Tears of a Tiger," and many, many more.In this episode, "Good Luck, They're Yours: Sharon Draper on Giving Students Room to Read," Sharon discusses what it means to trust readers, how her students helped guide her first book, and seeing her stories banned in classrooms. We also talk about church music, spiked lemonade, and how she ended up with a special library card that gave her access to the library's adult section, even as a child.When we asked Sharon to come up with a reading challenge, she was reluctant to give us a list of must-reads. Maybe that's not surprising, given her past frustrations with inflexible required reading lists. In true teacher fashion, she flipped the assignment and gave us a lesson plan. This week's Beanstack featured Librarian is William Schaller, the middle school librarian at Hoffman Middle School in Houston, Texas, for the past seven years! William shares his secret sauce for getting kids excited about reading. Show ChaptersChapter 1 - The Reader KidChapter 2 - Spike Lemonade and Porch StoriesChapter 3 - Shut Up and Say You Like ItChapter 4 - We Never Say That in the Locker RoomChapter 5 - Student TeachersChapter 6 - Reading ChallengeChapter 7 - Beanstack Featured LibrarianLinksThe Reading CultureThe Reading Culture Newsletter SignupFollow The Reading Culture on Instagram (for giveaways and bonus content)Sharon DraperSharon Draper InstagramCleveland Public LibraryUp the Down StaircaseSharon M. Draper receiving the National Teacher of the Year AwardBeanstack resources to build your community's reading cultureJordan Lloyd BookeyHost and Production CreditsHost: Jordan Lloyd BookeyProducers: Mel Webb and Lower Street MediaScript Editors: Josia Lamberto-Egan, Mel Webb, Jackie Lamport, Jordan Lloyd Bookey

Glad to have you listening with us today! Today we have Ms. Sarah reading Bella Ballerina by Sharon Draper which is a sweet story about a little girl who loves being a ballarina!As always this book was selected from our library! Kids and Parents can read along with us, in this read aloud story time! Be sure to check out your local Library to check out what books they may have! If you prefer E-Books, sign into the Hoopla or Libby app using your Library Card and follow along from there!- Check out the Library Systems official website where you can find links to free resources, school and career guides, and news about our upcoming events! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.pawls.org/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ -Follow us on YouTube and enjoy our backlog of digital story hours and other great content! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.youtube.com/@pawls365⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Original background track is Concerto for Two Violins by Bach.Alterations were made by us to make it fit the length of our content.Brought to you from the Pike-Amite-Walthall Library system.#library #books #pawlskids #kidsstorytime

This week on Decorating Pages, we welcome Production Designer Michael Fitzgerald to explore the stunning visuals behind Out of My Mind. Adapted from Sharon Draper's bestselling novel, the film required Michael to create a world that captures the heart and imagination of both readers and new audiences. From designing Melody's intimate spaces to the broader school environment, Michael shares his creative approach, inspirations, and the challenges of bringing this empowering story to life.

Join Doug and Addie on this episode of Walk and Roll Live as they dive into Disney's heartwarming new film, Out of My Mind. Based on Sharon Draper's acclaimed novel, the movie follows Melody, a brilliant young girl with cerebral palsy, on her journey to inclusion in a mainstream 6th-grade classroom and her discovery of her own voice. Doug and Addie share their personal stories and insights, reflecting on the film's powerful themes of resilience, inclusion, and self-expression. It's an episode filled with heartfelt discussion and celebration of this compelling story. Walk and Roll Live Out of My Mind 

In this episode you and I consider a powerful quote on happiness by Sharon Draper, the awared winning author and educator. That quote is:"Perfect happiness is a beautiful sunset, the giggle of a grandchild, the first snowfall. It's the little things that make happy moments, not the grand events. Joy comes in sips, not gulps."We explore how you can incorporate Sharon's wisdom into you life to enhance happiness and well being."Here are 7 affirmations you can use to help with that worthy action:"I choose to be fully present in each moment, appreciating the beauty and joy that surrounds me.""I recognize and celebrate the small joys in my life, knowing that they contribute to my overall happiness.""I am grateful for my unique journey, embracing both the challenges and the blessings that shape my life.""I prioritize and nurture my relationships, finding joy in the love and laughter shared with family and friends.""I choose to focus on the positive aspects of my life, allowing happiness to flourish within me.""I give myself permission to experience joy in everyday moments, knowing that I deserve happiness.""I am open to new experiences and adventures, trusting that they will bring me joy and fulfillment."You'll discover how to use one or more of these suggested affirmations to enhance you sense of happiness and well being.---Host:Stephen Carter - Website: https://StressReliefRadio.com - Email: CarterMethod@gmaiil.com---Technical information:Recorded and initial edits with Twisted Wave. Additional edits with Hush and Levelator. Final edits and rendering with Hindenburg Pro. Microphone: Marantz Professional Microphone.---Key words:joy, happiness, Sharon Draper, 

In this episode you and I consider a powerful quote on happiness by Sharon Draper, the awared winning author and educator. That quote is:"Perfect happiness is a beautiful sunset, the giggle of a grandchild, the first snowfall. It's the little things that make happy moments, not the grand events. Joy comes in sips, not gulps."We explore how you can incorporate Sharon's wisdom into you life to enhance happiness and well being."Here are 7 affirmations you can use to help with that worthy action:"I choose to be fully present in each moment, appreciating the beauty and joy that surrounds me.""I recognize and celebrate the small joys in my life, knowing that they contribute to my overall happiness.""I am grateful for my unique journey, embracing both the challenges and the blessings that shape my life.""I prioritize and nurture my relationships, finding joy in the love and laughter shared with family and friends.""I choose to focus on the positive aspects of my life, allowing happiness to flourish within me.""I give myself permission to experience joy in everyday moments, knowing that I deserve happiness.""I am open to new experiences and adventures, trusting that they will bring me joy and fulfillment."You'll discover how to use one or more of these suggested affirmations to enhance you sense of happiness and well being.---Host:Stephen Carter - Website: https://StressReliefRadio.com - Email: CarterMethod@gmaiil.com---Technical information:Recorded and initial edits with Twisted Wave. Additional edits with Hush and Levelator. Final edits and rendering with Hindenburg Pro. Microphone: Marantz Professional Microphone.---Key words:joy, happiness, Sharon Draper, 

About the Guest(s): Sharon M. Draper is an accomplished author and educator, widely recognized for her contribution to young adult literature. Her career as an English teacher spanned over 30 years, engaging with students from sixth to twelfth grade. Draper's literary portfolio includes books that address diverse and compelling topics, with "Out of My Mind" being among her most notable works. She's won awards, including the prestigious Margaret A. Edwards Award for her significant and lasting contribution to writing for teens. With her lifelong devotion to creating profound connections with young readers through her writing, she has touched numerous lives and inspired countless individuals.Episode Summary: In this episode of the Think Inclusive podcast, we are joined by Sharon Draper, an exceptional voice in middle-grade literature whose books have captivated readers around the globe. Draper takes us behind the scenes of her creative process during the conversation, sharing the inspirations and challenges that shape her memorable characters and their stories. The episode begins with a deep dive into Draper's most beloved character, Melody, from the "Out of My Mind" series. The audience is given a unique window into Melody's world, exploring self-acceptance, belonging, and disability representation. Draper outlines her meticulous approach to research, emphasizing the importance of authenticity in crafting a character like Melody, who has cerebral palsy and navigates a myriad of personal and social challenges.We hear about Melody's growth and journey as she searches for acceptance both within herself and in the society around her. The conversation touches on Melody's experiences in summer camp in "Out of My Heart," her friendships, and her quest for inclusion. The episode concludes with an exciting teaser about the upcoming third book in the series, where Melody's adventures will take her out of the country, and Draper's personal stance on the critical issue of book banning.Transcript: https://otter.ai/u/4OjP10FCk_IT0clQqtXndRcQ0PAKey Takeaways:Sharon Draper's long teaching career and journey into writing began with a challenge from a student and led to the publishing of numerous impactful books for young readers.Draper emphasizes the importance of realistic character development, particularly when addressing disabilities in literature.In "Out of My Heart," Melody's character faces new challenges and experiences, such as summer camp, fostering themes of friendship and acceptance.There's an exciting anticipation for the third book in the "Out of My Mind" series, where Melody will continue to break barriers and undertake new adventures.Draper strongly opposes the current trend of book banning and advocates for the freedom to read and access to diverse literature.Sharon M Draper: https://www.sharondraper.com/MCIE: https://www.mcie.org/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We are happy to welcome award winning author, Sharon Draper to The Hamilton Review Podcast!  Sharon Draper is the New York Times Bestselling author of " Out of my Mind",  a book that has been on the list for almost two years. The book has also been developed into a movie and will be distributed by Disney, coming to theaters soon! In this conversation, Mrs. Draper shares with the audience about her love of reading as a young girl and how that shaped her writing career. She also talks about her best selling book, "Out of my Mind", her long career as an educator, and so much more. This is a must listen conversation friends! Enjoy this episode! Sharon M. Draper is a professional educator as well as an accomplished writer. She has been honored as the National Teacher of the Year, is a five-time winner of the Coretta Scott King Literary Awards, and is a New York Times bestselling author, with Out of my Mind staying on the list for almost two years. She was selected as Ohio's Outstanding High School Language Arts Educator, Ohio Teacher of the Year, and was chosen as a NCNW Excellence in Teaching Award winner. She is a Milken Family Foundation National Educator Award winner, and was the Duncanson Artist-in-Residence for the Taft Museum. She is a YWCA Career Woman of Achievement, and is the recipient of the Dean's Award from Howard University School of Education, the Pepperdine University Distinguished Alumnus Award, the Marva Collins Education Excellence Award, and the Governor's Educational Leadership Award. Last year she was named Ohio Pioneer in Education by the Ohio State Department of Education, and in 2008 she received the Beacon of Light Humanitarian award. In 2009 she received the Doctor of Laws Degree from Pepperdine University. In 2011, she received the Lifetime Achievement Award for contributions to the field of adolescent literature by The Assembly on Literature for Adolescents of the National Council of Teachers of English, as well as the 33rd Annual Jeremiah Luddington Award by the Educational Book and Media Association, also for lifetime achievement. In 2015 she was honored by the American Library Association as the recipient of the Margaret A. Edwards Award for lifetime literary achievement. In 2015 she was honored with the Anne V. Zarrow Award by the Tulsa Library Trust., as well as the 2016 Upstander Award by Antioch College. She has been honored at the White House six times, and was chosen as one of only four authors in the country to speak at the National Book Festival Gala in Washington, D.C, and to represent the United States in Moscow at their Book Festival. Her book Copper Sun was named one of the 100 Best Books of All Time by TIME Magazine and was selected by the US State Department and the International Reading Association as the United States novel for the international reading project called Reading Across Continents. Students in the US, Nigeria, and Ghana are reading the book and sharing ideas-a true intercontinental, cross-cultural experience. Actively involved in encouraging and motivating all teachers and their students as well, she has worked all over the United States, as well as in Russia, Ghana, Togo, Kenya, Ethiopia, Bermuda, and Guam, spreading the word about the power of accomplished teaching and excellence in education. Her literary recognition began when, as a challenge from one of her students, she entered and won first prize in a literary contest, for which she was awarded $5000 and the publication of her short story, "One Small Torch." She has published numerous poems, articles, and short stories in a variety of literary journals. She is the published author of numerous articles, stories, and poems. Sharon Draper is an active participant in the activities of the YWCA of Cincinnati, a member of the National Council of Teachers of English, the International Reading Association, and Top Ladies of Distinction. Ms. Draper travels extensively and has been a guest on television and radio programs throughout the country, discussing issues of literature, reading, and education. She is an accomplished public speaker who addresses educational and literary groups of all ages, both nationally and internationally, with entertaining readings of her poetry and novels, as well as enlightening instructional presentations. She lives in Cincinnati, Ohio, with her husband and a golden retriever named Honey. I learned to dream through reading, learned to create dreams through writing, and learned to develop dreamers through teaching. I shall always be a dreamer. Come dream with me. How to contact Sharon Draper: Sharon Draper's official website Sharon Draper on Instagram How to contact Dr. Bob: Dr. Bob on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UChztMVtPCLJkiXvv7H5tpDQ Dr. Bob on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drroberthamilton/ Dr. Bob on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bob.hamilton

Stella by Starlight by Sharon DraperStella has found lately that she does better with her writing when she goes outside at night. But this particular night, she has already gone to bed, when her younger brother, Jojo, comes to wake her up. They both go outside and see across their backyard to a pond, where there is a cross burning, surrounded by what appear to be men in white sheets and hoods. They aren't sure what is up, but they feel like it is something bad. After letting their parents know, they realize they were right to feel uneasy. Turns out, those men belong to the Ku Klux Klan, or the KKK. And this concerns everyone in Bumblebee, North Carolina who is black. Including Stella's family.Recommended for grades 6 and up. 

In Out of My Mind, we met Melody Brooks, whose brain works lightspeed ahead of most kids', but who cannot keep up physically; her only way of communicating is with a communication board. Her utter refusal to let her physicality hold her back has inspired countless readers around the world, and over the years, Sharon has received thousands of letters about her many books, but kids most often ask: what happens to Melody after Out of My Mind? Out of My Heart is her response to those readers yearning for more of Melody's impactful story. In Out of My Heart, Melody is a year older (and braver) and takes the next step towards independence by attending summer camp for the first time. Melody is all alone at the camp, which is designed for children with disabilities. Melody must confront her fears to follow her passion. By the light of flickering campfires and the power of thunderstorms, through the terror of unexpected creatures in cabins and the first sparkle of a crush, Melody is about to discover how brave and strong she really is.

In Out of My Mind, we met Melody Brooks, whose brain works lightspeed ahead of most kids', but who cannot keep up physically; her only way of communicating is with a communication board. Her utter refusal to let her physicality hold her back has inspired countless readers around the world, and over the years, Sharon has received thousands of letters about her many books, but kids most often ask: what happens to Melody after Out of My Mind? Out of My Heart is her response to those readers yearning for more of Melody's impactful story. In Out of My Heart, Melody is a year older (and braver) and takes the next step towards independence by attending summer camp for the first time. Melody is all alone at the camp, which is designed for children with disabilities. Melody must confront her fears to follow her passion. By the light of flickering campfires and the power of thunderstorms, through the terror of unexpected creatures in cabins and the first sparkle of a crush, Melody is about to discover how brave and strong she really is.

In Out of My Mind, we met Melody Brooks, whose brain works lightspeed ahead of most kids', but who cannot keep up physically; her only way of communicating is with a communication board. Her utter refusal to let her physicality hold her back has inspired countless readers around the world, and over the years, Sharon has received thousands of letters about her many books, but kids most often ask: what happens to Melody after Out of My Mind? Out of My Heart is her response to those readers yearning for more of Melody's impactful story. In Out of My Heart, Melody is a year older (and braver) and takes the next step towards independence by attending summer camp for the first time. Melody is all alone at the camp, which is designed for children with disabilities. Melody must confront her fears to follow her passion. By the light of flickering campfires and the power of thunderstorms, through the terror of unexpected creatures in cabins and the first sparkle of a crush, Melody is about to discover how brave and strong she really is.

In Out of My Mind, we met Melody Brooks, whose brain works lightspeed ahead of most kids', but who cannot keep up physically; her only way of communicating is with a communication board. Her utter refusal to let her physicality hold her back has inspired countless readers around the world, and over the years, Sharon has received thousands of letters about her many books, but kids most often ask: what happens to Melody after Out of My Mind? Out of My Heart is her response to those readers yearning for more of Melody's impactful story. In Out of My Heart, Melody is a year older (and braver) and takes the next step towards independence by attending summer camp for the first time. Melody is all alone at the camp, which is designed for children with disabilities. Melody must confront her fears to follow her passion. By the light of flickering campfires and the power of thunderstorms, through the terror of unexpected creatures in cabins and the first sparkle of a crush, Melody is about to discover how brave and strong she really is.

In the third episode of The Confident Classroom Podcast, host Kelly Haas sits down with Michelle Emerson, YouTuber, podcaster and former 4th grade teacher, to discuss getting organized. EPISODE RESOURCES: Sterilite 6 Quart Clear Bin with White Lid → https://amzn.to/34Vcftp Sterilite 20 Quart Storage Container with latches (12 pack) → https://amzn.to/3Ichtit Sterilite 3-Drawer Rolling Organizer Cart → https://amzn.to/3pa3LFr Out of My Mind by Sharon Draper → https://amzn.to/33IJhw1 Out of My Heart by Sharon Draper → https://amzn.to/3h66xXV Leaving Time by Jodi Picoult → https://amzn.to/3HepNx3 Nineteen Minutes by Jodi Picoult → https://amzn.to/3BJMXdv Support this podcast with a small monthly donation to help sustain future episodes. Have a topic you want covered on the podcast? Email us with your suggestions! → theconfidentclassroom@gmail.com Connect with Kelly: Twitter: @mrskellyhaas Instagram: @theconfidentclassroompodcast Connect with Michelle: Website: https://www.pocketfulofprimary.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/pocketfulofprimary Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pocketfulofprimary/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PocketfulofPrimary Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/teaching-to-the-top/id1493099649 --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/theconfidentclassroom/support

Your friendly neighborhood librarians are back at it, answering questions from listeners, like you, in episode 14 – To Great Heights (not by flying). In this episode, our librarians, Courtnei & Emily, with a little help from the librarian behind the screen, Jill, answer questions about the tallest building, how hearing works, and if humans will ever be able to fly! Take a listen because this episode is filled with lots of useful information and a few laughs. (Please do not try to fly, just take our word for it.)  Join us for a new episode every other Wednesday to see if listeners were able to stump the librarian and learn some rather interesting information! You can submit a question of your own via http://kdl.org/stump. Don't forget to subscribe to Stump the Librarian via https://stumpthelibrarian.podbean.com/ or wherever you prefer to listen to podcasts, so you never miss an episode. You can also reach our librarians with your questions or by email at Stumpthelibrarian@kdl.org.  Interested in learning and exploring more about this episode's curious questions?  You can always use any of the databases KDL has to offer with your library card. Just go to https://kdl.org/online-resources/ to find the best database for more information on the answer to your question. Oh, and don't forget the books! Our catalog is full of amazing books that are filled with fascinating information. Just visit https://kdl.bibliocommons.com/ to search for your next great nonfiction read!  Concerning Tall Buildings...  https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_tallest_buildings  https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Burj_Khalifa  https://kdl.bibliocommons.com/v2/record/S174C486811  https://kdl.bibliocommons.com/v2/record/S174C771976    Concerning Hearing Aids...  https://www.hearingloss.org/hearing-help/hearing-loss-basics/    Concerning Flying...  https://www.discovery.com/nature/Why-Do-Birds-Have-Hollow-Bones  https://wgvu.pbslearningmedia.org/resource/1cfb284d-a0ec-4ade-9815-8c10810685ee/wings-back-fly/  https://wgvu.pbslearningmedia.org/resource/f245d54d-f0fe-49e3-9162-f5c5bb6fc26e/humans-fly/    Books mentioned...  “Out of My Mind” by Sharon Draper  https://kdl.bibliocommons.com/v2/record/S174C117544    “Out of My Heart” by Sharon Draper  https://kdl.bibliocommons.com/v2/record/S174C807074 

Sharon M. Draper, Author, OUT OF MY HEART (In bookstore on November 9th 2021). Draper joined Sunday Morning Magazine to discuss her new book OUT OF MY HEART. The novel is the sequel to her acclaimed New York Times Bestseller, OUT OF MY MIND.

Sharon Draper, Award Winning Author joins First Look with Andy Morris to talk about her new book "Out of My Heart".

On this episode, I am joined by globally known New York Times bestselling author and longtime Educator/National Teacher of the Year winner Sharon M. Draper to discuss the release of her new book entitled, "Out Of My Heart," her highly anticipated sequel to Out of My Mind; whose lead character's refusal to let her health and physicality hold her back is an inspiration to EVERYONE, and particularly to those kids who have their own unique ways of making their way through our world. Sharon also shares a special personal message to kids who are currently living with health conditions. Please #subscribe and rate our show!

Blended by Sharon DraperIt has been a while since her parents got divorced, but it doesn't mean that things are easier now for Isabella (as her dad calls her) or Izzy (as her mom calls her.) See, they can't even agree on what to call their own child! Every week, Izzy finds herself in a new home – either living with her dad or her mom. It is hard to feel like she truly belongs anywhere. And now that she's in 6th grade, she is realizing there are some things harder than just knowing whose week it is, but how does she, a child of a white mother and a black father, fit in to the world around her.Life just keeps seeming to get harder and more complex for Izzy. She plays piano and has a huge recital coming up that she is both excited for and a bit stressed out about and on top of that, something really horrible happens at school that makes her begin to wonder if she knows people at all or what they stand for. What does she believe and stand for? And her parents can't seem to agree on anything, big or small and it is all becoming way too much for her to handle – why can't they see that?Recommended for grades 6 and up. 

Notes and Links to References from Episode 77 with Danielle Fuentes Morgan    On Episode 77, Pete is happy to welcome Danielle Fuentes Morgan, and the two talk about her reading and writing influences, and go into great detail about her nuanced and interesting and important book, Laughing to Keep from Dying: African American Satire in the Twenty-First Century. Dr. Danielle Fuentes Morgan is an assistant professor in the Department of English at Santa Clara University in Santa Clara, California. She specializes in African American literature and culture in the 20th and 21st centuries and is interested in the ways that literature, popular culture, and humor shape identity formation. In particular, her research and teaching reflect her interests in African American satire and comedy, literature and the arts as activism, and the continuing influence of history on contemporary articulations of Black selfhood. Danielle has written a variety of both scholarly and popular articles and has been interviewed on topics as varied as Black Lives Matter, the dangers of the “Karen” figure, race and sexuality on the Broadway stage, and Beyoncé. Her book, Laughing to Keep from Dying: African American Satire in the Twenty-First Century (published Fall 2020 by University of Illinois Press as a part of the New Black Studies Series), addresses the contemporary role of African American satire as a critical realm for social justice. Her writing has appeared in a variety of publications including on Racialicious and Al Jazeera, in Post-Soul Satire: Black Identity after Civil Rights, Humanities, Biography: An Interdisciplinary Quarterly, Pre/Text: A Journal of Rhetorical Theory, Journal of Science Fiction, College Literature, and Post45 Contemporaries. She is a member of the Center for the Arts and Humanities Faculty Advisory Board and has served as the Frank Sinatra Faculty Fellow for the Center working with W. Kamau Bell and Taye Diggs.  Danielle earned her B.A. in English with a minor in African American studies from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and an M.A.T. in secondary English education at Duke University. After teaching high school English, she returned to school and received an M.A. in English literature from North Carolina State University. She earned her Ph.D. in English literature from Cornell University with focuses in African American literature, African American studies, and American literature. She hails from Durham, North Carolina.   Buy Laughing to Keep from Dying: African American Satire in the Twenty-First Century    Danielle Fuentes Morgan's Writer Website  At about 3:20, Danielle talks about her allegiances to The University of North Carolina    At about 5:10, Danielle describes the myriad ways in which she was a “bookworm” as a kid, and how her daughter shares this love for words   At about 7:45, Danielle details the books that thrilled her as a kid, including The Outsiders and Anne of Green Gables, and works by Lois Duncan, Nikki Giovanni, and Eleanor E. Tate   At about 10:00, Danielle lists contemporary writers like Sharon Draper, and texts about kids of various backgrounds, Radiant Child about Basquiat and Front Desk by Kelly Yang, that she has enjoyed with her children   At about 15:00, Danielle talks about the eternal pull for her of Ponyboy Curtis and The Outsiders   At about 17:15, Pete asks Danielle about her relationship with pop culture as a kid, and her Uncle Kevin's outsized impact on her pop culture experiences; she describes watching tv as an “active experience”    At about 21:00, Pete asks Danielle about moments in which her desire to write for a living became manifest, including her reading of Their Eyes Were Watching God during her junior year in college and her future dissertation advisor asked a key question   At about 23:45, Pete and    At about 24:15, Pete notes Zora Neale Hurston's puré sense of individuality as described in Scott Ellsworth's writing, and Danielle notes Zora's inspiration to her, especially in the ways that Hurston wrote as an anthropologist    At about 26:10, Pete and Danielle discuss the power of Hurston's “How it Feels to be Colored Me”   At about 27:20, Danielle talks about writers and texts who thrill her these days, including James Baldwin, Danielle Evans and her The Office of Historical Corrections, and R. Eric Thomas    At about 30:30, Danielle and Pete discuss the iconic A Separate Peace and Romeo and Juliet, texts that Danielle says really spoke to her high school students   At about 33:30, Pete references Natalie Lima and he discussing A Separate Peace and asks Danielle her thoughts on the book's climactic event   At about 34:25, Pete asks Danielle to describe her “average” writing and teaching day   At about 37:00, Pete shouts out Danielle's colleague and Pete's first guest, fabulous SCU prof Claudia Monpere McIsaac, in asking Danielle about the status of “publish or perish” in 2021 academia   At about 39:10, Pete asks Danielle about her thoughts on seeing her name on a book jacket, and she describes the two events of Dave Chappelle having disappeared and Barack Obama just having been elected as the beginning of a long, serpentine process in publishing the book   At about 43:10, Pete and Danielle discuss satire and Danielle's take on satire in her book   At about 47:10, Danielle explains the significance of the book's title and its connection the famous saying, “laughing to keep from crying”   At about 47:58, Pete's son makes a short appearance!   At about 49:15, Danielle responds to hearing her introduction, including the book's thesis    At about 50:50, Danielle defines and describes “post-black” as used in the book and how it differs from “post-racial”   At about 52:45, Danielle discusses the reexamination of minstrel shows and blackface in earlier times, as now often seen as winking, nodding   At about 55:00, Danielle and Pete reflect on Richard Pryor's stunning and profound ending for his comedy album, the ending of Danielle's introduction   At about 57:00, Pete points out a parallel in a Dave Chappelle skit in which there is a moment of seriousness juxtaposed against a comedic scene   At about 58:25, Danielle and Pete discuss the first chapter of the book, which brings in Tarantino's Django, (and he shouts out Traci and The Stacks Podcast and its strong interview of Quentin Tarantino) discussed by Danielle for the film's misses     At about 1:03:15, Pete asks Danielle if the premise was flawed from the beginning for Django, and Danielle talks about ways in which slaves were given humanity in Octavia Butler's work and Key and Peele   At about 1:05:20, Danielle describes Jordan Anderson's stunning work and post-slavery story, a part of the book   At about 1:07:20, Danielle talks about ayo's work in satire, “How tas described in the book   At about 1:08:40, Danielle talks about her book's second chapter and ideas about race as a construct, including “Blackness” being put up for sale on EBay by Keith Obadike as performance and activist art   At about 1:10:40, Danielle juxtaposes the book and movie versions of Precious and how satire fell a little flat in the movie (lesser so in the book)   At around 1:13:35,    At about 1:14:00, Pete and Danielle discuss her chapter on the performative, which touches upon Erasure by Percival Everett, an episode of Atlanta, and Barack Obama's “dad jeans,” as well as a piece by Touré   At about 1:16:10, Chapter Three is discussed, with its focus on satirical misfires, and when “keeping it real goes wrong”; Danielle details Chris Rock and Leslie Jones and their hiccups; “in group” and “out group” is probed   At about 1:19:55, Pete and Danielle discuss Chapter Four, starting with Get Out and its connection to Bell's 1992 poetry; Danielle discusses her visceral reaction to her first viewing of the movie    At about 1:23:10, Danielle highlights the standout points from Issa Rae's Insecure and its focus on agency and platonic love with and among Black women   At about 1:24:55, Danielle discusses the last chapter of her book, its focus on Dave Chappelle and his SNL skit (with Chris Rock) and statement right after Donald Trump's election victory, as well as the future of African-American satire and humor   At about 1:30:10, Danielle explains “just jokes” and the idea of doing satire in the chaotic world of 2021-the basis of the end of the book-with some reflections on what can be done to continue productive satire in the future   At about 1:31:55, Danielle details future projects, including the ever-decreasing line between comedy and horror in the 21st century   At about 1:33:10, Danielle shouts out Brian Tyree Henry and Donald Glover and their greatness  You can now subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, and leave me a five-star review. You can also ask for the podcast by name using Alexa, and find the pod on Stitcher, Spotify, and on Amazon Music. Follow me on IG, where I'm @chillsatwillpodcast, or on Twitter, where I'm @chillsatwillpo1. You can watch other episodes on YouTube-watch and subscribe to The Chills at Will Podcast Channel. Please subscribe to both my YouTube Channel and my podcast while you're checking out this episode.  This is a passion project of mine, a DIY operation, and I'd love for your help in promoting what I'm convinced is a unique and spirited look at an often-ignored art form. The intro song for The Chills at Will Podcast is “Wind Down” (Instrumental Version), and the other song played on this episode was “Hoops” (Instrumental)” by Matt Weidauer, and both songs are used through ArchesAudio.com. I'm excited to share my next episode with Adam O'Fallon Price on September 10. Adam is the author of much great work, including 2020 Edgar Award Winner THE HOTEL NEVERSINK. I hope you can tune in.

Melody isn't like her fellow students. She can't walk, talk, or write - all because she has cerebral palsy. What her classmates, teachers, and doctors don't know is that Melody is BRILLIANT; she can remember every detail of everything she's learned or experienced. In fact, she's the smartest kid in her school and she's determined to let everyone know...somehow. This title is intended for tweens and is suitable for most audiences. Recorded with permission of Atheneum, an imprint of Simon & Schuster. Click here to see this title in the Houston Public Library catalog.

— Uncertainty is one of the most challenging psychological experiences to go through. It's a natural human reaction to try to feel certain about things in order for us to feel more in control. Valeria Teles interviews Sharon Draper — a Psychologist, Relationship Expert for eHarmony Australia, Writer And Speaker. Sharon Draper is a Psychologist in Sydney, Australia. She loves variety so integrates her work with seeing clients online, working with people who have a psychological injury on workers compensation claims, creating online programs, doing media work and working with eharmony as their relationship expert in Australia.  Sharon's approach is holistic and person centered and she is informed by Existentialism, Neuroscience, Polyvagal Theory and Attachment Science. She believes, if we can be kinder to ourselves and understand that our emotions are necessary and provide insight into our deepest values, we can live purposeful and meaningful lives. Sharon is also a regular contributor to Newspaper articles (Sydney Morning Herald), Radio (ABC) and TV (Channel 7 Sunrise).  To learn more about Sharon Draper and her work, please visit: https://www.sharondraper.com.au/   — This podcast is a quest for well-being, a quest for a meaningful life through the exploration of fundamental truths, enlightening ideas, insights on physical, mental, and spiritual health. The inspiration is Love. The aspiration is to awaken new ways of thinking that can lead us to a new way of being, being well.    

During this segment of the show we spoke to education experts who provide tips and information to help high school students improve their studying skills. The panelists gave guidelines on how many hours students should spend studying for each school subject. They also discussed how technology is impacting the way young people study today.

3 middle school students talk about “Blended” by Sharon Draper

YES, it can work and I have seen the proof! So this podcast is all about making online dating work for you. I chat to the perfect person, Sharon Draper who is a psychologist and the relationship expert at eharmony.  We discuss: Why online dating is a good way for single mums to meet potential partners; the importance of "self" when you online date; resources to get started; timelines around online dating and what not to expect; the new "video date" phenomenon and how it seriously helps the online dating process; and the "adventure" aspect of dating online and how to make it a positive experience.

Sharon M. Draper is a professional educator as well as an accomplished writer. She has been honored as the National Teacher of the Year, is a five-time winner of the Coretta Scott King Literary Awards, and is a New York Times bestselling author, with Out of my Mind staying on the list for almost two years.

Listen to why youth librarian, Lisa K thinks you should read Blended by Sharon Draper. Written for: 4h-5th Graders Genre: Realistic Fiction Themes: family, divorce, racism, biracial, identity Check it out here: https://search.westervillelibrary.org/iii/encore/search/C__St%3A%28blended%29%20a%3A%28draper%29__Orightresult__U?lang=eng&suite=gold

This chapter of NXT GEN MVMNT is with Sharon Draper. She is a psychologist who works with children, teens and adults using a number of different types of evidence-based approaches such as Neuropsychology, Mindfulness, Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy, play and art therapy. She’s also a children’s book author and an eHarmony psychologist, and it’s people like Sharon that we’re grateful to have on the podcast, helping us understand more of the human mind, what makes us triggered, and essentially be better people especially through times of disarray. Follow Sharon's journey: https://www.sharondraper.com.au/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/sharon-draper-43a2b521/ https://www.instagram.com/sharondraperpsychologist/

First Draft Episode #214: Jason Reynolds Jason Reynolds is the New York Times bestselling author of the Ghost series (Ghost, Patina, Sunny, Lu), When I Was the Greatest, The Boy in the Black Suit, As Brave As You, Miles Morales: Spider Man, Long Way Down, For Every One, Look Both Ways, and co-author of All American Boys (with Brendan Kiely, listen to his First Draft interview here) and Stamped: Racism, Anti-Racism, and You (with Ibram X. Kendi),. In January, Jason was named the seventh National Ambassador for Young People’s Literature for 2020-2021. Links and Topics Mentioned In This Episode Jason didn’t grow up writing prose, but he and all his friends had rhyme books where they would write lyrics. They wanted to be the next Nas, Slick Rick, Run DMC, Big Daddy Kane, or Rakim. Jason’s aunt would give him classic books as gifts, including Treasure Island by Robert Louis Stevenson and Little Women by Louisa May Alcott Bob Marley’s “Kaya,” Nina Simone’s “Four Women,” Tracy Chapman’s “Fast Car” were hugely influential on Jason because of the beauty of the lyrics Jason teamed up with the artist and writer Jason Douglas Griffin for an early book, My Name is Jason. Mine Too: Our Story. Our Way. Jason credits Joanna Cotler, author and artist, and then publisher of her own imprint at HarperCollins, with teaching him how to write narrative and gave him the mantra: “Your intuition will take you farther than your education ever will.” Jacqueline Woodson (author of Brown Girl Dreaming, winner of the National Book Award, the Coretta Scott King Award, and Newberry Honor winner), Rita Williams-Garcia (author of Clayton Byrd Goes Underground, a National Book Award finalist), and Walter Dean Myers (author of more than 100 books for young people, including Monster, winner of the Printz Award, the Coretta Scott King Award, and National Book Award, and more) are people Jason considers predecessors to his career. Christopher Myers, writer, artist, and the son of Walter Dean Myers, pressed Jason to return to writing, to carry on his father’s legacy. At Christopher’s urging, Jason read The Young Landlords by Walter Dean Myers (which the TV show 227 was based on) Caitlyn Dlouhy, Vice President & Editorial Director of Caitlyn Dlouhy Books, nurtured Jason’s career by focusing on the integrity of his work Laurie Halse Anderson (author of Speak and The Impossible Knife of Memory), Eliot Schrefer (author of Threatened, a National Book Award finalist), and Gene Luen Yang (author and illustrator of American Born Chinese), and Jason also shouts out Sharon Draper’s New York Times bestselling Stella by Starlight Jason references part of Walt Whitman’s Song of Myself: “Unscrew the locks from the doors! Unscrew the doors themselves from their jambs!” Jason admires writers who use verse for all or many of their books, specifically Kwame Alexander (poet and educator, and New York Times bestselling author of The Crossover: A Novel, winner of the Newbery Medal and a Coretta Scott King Honor) and Ellen Hopkins (New York Times bestselling author of Crank) Alfred Hitchcock’s works (including Psycho and Rear Window), and Stanley Kubrick’s The Shining are examples of subtle ways that framing and design can make a viewer feel uncomfortable. Quincy Jones said about producing music, “I always say you have to leave space for God to walk into the room.” That’s how Jason feels about the appearance of poetry in text. The first scene of Boyz ‘n the Hood shows one kid asking another, “Do you want to see a dead body?” Fresh Ink: An Anthology, edited by Lamar Giles (author of Fake ID and Spin), and Black Enough: Stories of Being Young & Black in America, edited by Ibi Zoboi (author of American Street, a National Book Award finalist, and Pride) are among the anthologies that Jason thinks are wonderful. He wonders why we’ve moved away from the short story format for younger readers. The TV show High Maintenance is another example of vignette storytelling that Jason was going for with Look Both Ways Jason shouts out Jennifer Buehler, Ph.D., Associate Professor at St. Louis University, Educational Studies who specializes in young adult literature Jason’s friend and co-author of All American Boys, Brendan Keily (author of Tradition, listen to his First Draft episode here), refers to the story under the story as “vertical narrative” I want to hear from you! Have a question about writing or creativity for Sarah Enni or her guests to answer? To leave a voicemail, call (818) 533-1998. You can also email the podcast at firstdraftwithsarahenni@gmail.com.  Subscribe To First Draft with Sarah Enni Every Tuesday, I speak to storytellers like Veronica Roth, #1 New York Times bestselling author of Divergent; Linda Holmes, New York Times bestselling author and host of NPR’s Pop Culture Happy Hour podcast; Jonny Sun, internet superstar, illustrator of Lin-Manuel Miranda’s Gmorning, Gnight! and author and illustrator of Everyone’s an Aliebn When Ur a Aliebn Too;  Michael Dante  DiMartino, co-creator of Avatar: The Last Airbender; John August, screenwriter of Big Fish, Charlie’s Angels, and Charlie and the Chocolate Factory; or Rhett Miller, musician and frontman for The Old 97s. Together, we take deep dives on their careers and creative works. Don’t miss an episode! Subscribe in Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher, or wherever you get your podcasts. It’s free! Rate, Review, and Recommend How do you like the show? Please take a moment to rate and review First Draft with Sarah Enni in Apple Podcasts, Google Play, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Your honest and positive review helps others discover the show -- so thank you! Is there someone you think would love this podcast as much as you do? Please share this episode on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, or via carrier pigeon (maybe try a text or e-mail, come to think of it). Just click the Share button at the bottom of this post! Thanks again!

Wildlife care is 24/7 as we all know. So how do we make time for ourselves, and what can we do to ensure we remain well, and are able to keep caring?Guests:Suzy Nethercott-Watson, a carer for 20 years, and the director of Two Green Threads - a website built specially to support wildlife volunteers in the work they do. Sharon Draper, animal lover and Sydney based psychologist with an interest in trauma and compassion fatigue. Further information:Two Green Threads – advice and mental health support for wildlife carersWildlife HeroesPlease call Lifeline on 13 11 14 if this conversation has brought up strong feelings and you are having trouble coping.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

eHarmony relationship expert Sharon Draper joins us to talk about the new way to date in this current COVID-19 climate...virtual datingSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

eHarmony relationship expert Sharon Draper joins us to talk about the new way to date in this current COVID-19 climate...virtual dating

eHarmony relationship expert Sharon Draper joins us to talk about the new way to date in this current COVID-19 climate...virtual dating

Blended, Stella by Starlight, Out of My Mind. These are just a few of the books written by our guest. Sharon Draper is a school teacher turned author. Her plethora of experience gives her an in depth look into the psyche and mind of the main characters she creates. Please join us as she goes through her process and shares her wisdom gained throughout her life!On this episode we learn:*Sharon's experience in the school system*How she views the world*What makes her just amazing!To learn more about visit: http://sharondraper.com/ Remember when you walk in Other People's shoes you get a different perspective!Other People's Shoes is a non-profit tax-deductible organization. If you feel lead to give click hereHave questions or want to give feedback call or text: 203-548-SHOEIf you enjoy the show you can subscribe to us on your favorite podcast platforms, so you don't miss an episode. We would also love it if you could leave us a review on iTunes!To hear other episodes go to:www.opspodcast.comYouTube.comSocial Media:**Facebook: Instagram: Twitter: **If you have questions or comments email us at: opspodcastshow@gmail.com

This is a podcast about a book called Out of My Mind.

By. Sharon Draper

This is a podcast about the book "Out of My Mind" and also some interesting facts about the author Sharon Draper.

Book review by Eva

First Draft Episode #214: Jason Reynolds Jason Reynolds, New York Times bestselling author of critically acclaimed books, including National Book Award finalist Ghost, Newberry and Printz-honored Long Way Down, Coretta Scott King Honoree As Brave as You, and his latest, middle grade Look Both Ways, which was just named to the National Book Award Longlist for Young People’s Literature. This episode was brought to you by Freedom — upgrade to Premium and use code FIRSTDRAFT for 40% off a yearly or Forever plan! Links and Topics Mentioned In This Episode Jason didn’t grow up writing prose, but he and all his friends had rhyme books where they would write lyrics. They wanted to be the next Nas, Slick Rick, Run DMC, Big Daddy Kane, or Rakim. Jason’s aunt would give him classic books as gifts, including Treasure Island by Robert Louis Stevenson and Little Women by Louisa May Alcott Bob Marley’s “Kaya,” Nina Simone’s “Four Women,” Tracy Chapman’s “Fast Car” were hugely influential on Jason because of the beauty of the lyrics Jason teamed up with the artist and writer Jason Douglas Griffin for an early book, My Name is Jason. Mine Too: Our Story. Our Way. Jason credits Joanna Cotler, author and artist, and then publisher of her own imprint at HarperCollins, with teaching him how to write narrative and gave him the mantra: “Your intuition will take you farther than your education ever will.” Jacqueline Woodson (author of Brown Girl Dreaming, winner of the National Book Award, the Coretta Scott King Award, and Newberry Honor winner), Rita Williams-Garcia (author of Clayton Byrd Goes Underground, a National Book Award finalist), and Walter Dean Myers (author of more than 100 books for young people, including Monster, winner of the Printz Award, the Coretta Scott King Award, and National Book Award, and more) are people Jason considers predecessors to his career. Christopher Myers, writer, artist, and the son of Walter Dean Myers, pressed Jason to return to writing, to carry on his father’s legacy. At Christopher’s urging, Jason read The Young Landlords by Walter Dean Myers (which the TV show 227 was based on) Caitlyn Dlouhy, Vice President & Editorial Director of Caitlyn Dlouhy Books, nurtured Jason’s career by focusing on the integrity of his work Laurie Halse Anderson (author of Speak and The Impossible Knife of Memory), Eliot Schrefer (author of Threatened, a National Book Award finalist), and Gene Luen Yang (author and illustrator of American Born Chinese), and Jason also shouts out Sharon Draper’s New York Times bestselling Stella by Starlight Jason references part of Walt Whitman’s Song of Myself: “Unscrew the locks from the doors! Unscrew the doors themselves from their jambs!” Jason admires writers who use verse for all or many of their books, specifically Kwame Alexander (poet and educator, and New York Times bestselling author of The Crossover: A Novel, winner of the Newbery Medal and a Coretta Scott King Honor) and Ellen Hopkins (New York Times bestselling author of Crank) Alfred Hitchcock’s works (including Psycho and Rear Window), and Stanley Kubrick’s The Shining are examples of subtle ways that framing and design can make a viewer feel uncomfortable. Quincy Jones said about producing music, “I always say you have to leave space for God to walk into the room.” That’s how Jason feels about the appearance of poetry in text. The first scene of Boyz ‘n the Hood shows one kid asking another, “Do you want to see a dead body?” Fresh Ink: An Anthology, edited by Lamar Giles (author of Fake ID and Spin), and Black Enough: Stories of Being Young & Black in America, edited by Ibi Zoboi (author of American Street, a National Book Award finalist, and Pride) are among the anthologies that Jason thinks are wonderful. He wonders why we’ve moved away from the short story format for younger readers. The TV show High Maintenance is another example of vignette storytelling that Jason was going for with Look Both Ways Jason shouts out Jennifer Buehler, Ph.D., Associate Professor at St. Louis University, Educational Studies who specializes in young adult literature Jason’s friend and co-author of All American Boys, Brendan Keily (author of Tradition, listen to his First Draft episode here), refers to the story under the story as “vertical narrative” I want to hear from you! Have a question about writing or creativity for Sarah Enni or her guests to answer? To leave a voicemail, call (818) 533-1998. You can also email the podcast at firstdraftwithsarahenni@gmail.com.  Subscribe To First Draft with Sarah Enni Every Tuesday, I speak to storytellers like Veronica Roth, #1 New York Times bestselling author of Divergent; Linda Holmes, New York Times bestselling author and host of NPR’s Pop Culture Happy Hour podcast; Jonny Sun, internet superstar, illustrator of Lin-Manuel Miranda’s Gmorning, Gnight! and author and illustrator of Everyone’s an Aliebn When Ur a Aliebn Too;  Michael Dante  DiMartino, co-creator of Avatar: The Last Airbender; John August, screenwriter of Big Fish, Charlie’s Angels, and Charlie and the Chocolate Factory; or Rhett Miller, musician and frontman for The Old 97s. Together, we take deep dives on their careers and creative works. Don’t miss an episode! Subscribe in Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher, or wherever you get your podcasts. It’s free! Rate, Review, and Recommend How do you like the show? Please take a moment to rate and review First Draft with Sarah Enni in Apple Podcasts, Google Play, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Your honest and positive review helps others discover the show -- so thank you! Is there someone you think would love this podcast as much as you do? Please share this episode on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, or via carrier pigeon (maybe try a text or e-mail, come to think of it). Just click the Share button at the bottom of this post! Thanks again!

Sharon M. Draper allows us to live vicariously through her with her story of writing TEARS OF A TIGER during study hall periods as an English teacher, which went on to win the Coretta Scott King Author Honor and launch the career of a literary legend. She assures me that visiting the White House never gets boring, even after the sixth time. She also shares her thoughts on education, which are well worth hearing as she was named a National Teacher of the Year. This was one of most incredible and enjoyable conversations I've ever had. Unfortunately, large parts of our talk were lost due to technical difficulties. We conducted this interview by phone out of necessity, which is why there's no video, and I used new recording software for the first and last time. But I learned a lot and you'll learn almost as much. Don't miss this amazing episode! Sharon Draper is a two-time Coretta Scott King Award-winning author, most recently for Copper Sun, and previously for Forged by Fire. She's also the recipient of the Coretta Scott King/John Steptoe Author Award for New Talent for Tears of a Tiger and the Coretta Scott King Author Honor for The Battle of Jericho and November Blues. Her other books include Romiette and Julio, Darkness Before Dawn, and Double Dutch. She lives in Cincinnati, Ohio, where she taught high school English for twenty-five years. She's a popular conference speaker, addressing educational and literary groups both nationally and internationally.

This site has professionally produced excerpted readings and Sharon's own reflections about writing the book. Stunning. http://sharondraper.com/bookdetail.asp?id=20

"I remember one time as a novice psychologist (I very nervous) a client was telling me a really sad story and I couldn't stop thinking about what I could do to ensure she didn't stop talking, because I was so worried about what to do if there was silence in the conversation..."Very rarely do we see mental health professionals change roles from practitioner to patient. Psychologist Sharon Draper shows us that even the people who do the diagnosing or treating have their own demons to deal with. In this episode we explore the humanity behind the traditionally "God-like" archetypes of professional therapists.In this episode we talk about:Her experience managing complex OCD issues that have manifested in bizarre behaviours like holding her breathLiving with anxiety and thriving in a world where she helps others to do the sameHow personal mental health issues can challenge her ability to support clients, yet also increase the empathy of her workWhy the window of time as a 5 to 7 year old is so sensitive to forming our future mental healthThe awkward moment where a psychologist starts writing notes during your sessionSharon also opens up about trauma that has hit close to home for her and impacted her life and inspired her to become involved with psychologyHow to change the internal conversation with yourselfSubscribe to hear future episodes on the REAL Talk Podcast, or follow us on Instagram or Facebook (@heartonmysleeve) to keep in the loop with future stories. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Don’t miss out on a good read just because it happens to be in the “wrong” section of the bookstore or the library. Sharon Draper’s Out of My Mind is for every reader who enjoys a (feel-good) story, well told.

Loraine Ballard Morrill continues her interview with Vanesse Lloyd Sgambati, founder of the African American Children's Book Fair on February 2nd 1-4 at Community College of Philadelphia along with two of the featured authors, Sharon Draper and Marietta Collins. http://theafricanamericanchildrensbookproject.org/First - we all want to do what we can to move the needle when it comes to poverty in Philadelphia. Loraine believes getting kids reading at grade level will help move that mission forward. There are a lot of people who feel passionately about this issue. Loraine speaks to Aldustus Jordon from Wells Fargo who originally came from the nonprofit world but is now in a position in the corporate world to truly make a difference.http://readby4th.org/

Intro Hi everyone and welcome to Books Between - a podcast for teachers, parents, librarians, and anyone who wants to connect kids between 8-12 to books they’ll love.  I’m your host, Corrina Allen - a teacher, a mom, and battling a cold this afternoon! So if I sound a little...off - that is why! This is episode #68 and Today I’m answering some questions about trends in middle grade and sharing with you some fabulous 2019 titles to look forward to this year! Q&A - Trends in Middle Grade Fiction Last month, my husband asked me some questions about trends in middle grade fiction. He teaches a class at Seton Hall all about trends in genre fiction and wanted some input on middle grade. So I thought I would share my responses with you. And I would be very curious about what YOU would answer. What genres or subgenres do you believe are the hottest right now? Well, it’s a format and not a genre but graphic novel memoirs like Hey Kiddo, Real Friends, and Be Prepared are still really popular. And also graphic novel adaptations of classics (like Anne of Green Gables) and popular novels (like Wings of Fire or Percy Jackson).  And again, not genre, but I see more books that are based on the core experiences of the writer. Those novels that draw on the real-life backgrounds of the authors like Kelly Yang’s Front Desk, Tami Charles’ Like Vanessa, and Supriya Kellar’s Ahimsa.  They’re not memoirs but they are books rooted in a very personal experience. To authors, I’d say - take those things that make you unique, that make you a bit quirky, that set you apart from most other people - and write THAT story. Like Kelly Yang taking the experiences of her family coming from China and running motels to write Front Desk. Jarrett Krosoczka writing the critically acclaimed graphic novel memoir Hey Kiddo about his life living with his grandparents after his mom lost custody of him due to drug addiction. Crack that door open and invite us inside. What genres or subgenres do you believe are passé or overexposed? I don’t know…. I do wonder how long the unicorn and narwhal craze will last but that seems to live more in picture books than middle grade. Magical realism - or rather realistic fiction with a magical twist - doesn’t seem to be slowing down. You know - anything can be new and fresh with the right spin.  And also, authors from marginalized backgrounds are still underrepresented in just about every genre so those are stories that will likely have new points of view. I thought I was totally over zombie stories but Dread Nation popped up and whoa!!  I’ve never read a zombie story like THAT before!   If you had to predict, what genre or subgenre do you think is primed to be the next Big Thing in the next year or so? I would say stories about immigrants, refugees, and the unique experiences of marginalized groups (especially by #ownvoices authors) will continue to be popular. Over the last couple of years we’ve seen an explosion of critically acclaimed middle grade stories like Alan Gratz’s Refugee, Jacqueline Woodson’s Harbor Me, and Escape from Aleppo by N.H. Senzai among many more. We also have more and more books coming out that tell stories of police violence in developmentally appropriate ways like Ghost Boys by Jewell Parker Rhodes and Blended by Sharon Draper.  I’m also really excited about a new crop of middle grade #MeToo stories on the horizon like So Done by Paula Chase and the upcoming Barbara Dee novel Maybe He Just Likes You.   Any comments about where you see genre fiction heading? In middle grade, like everywhere else,  #ownvoices books are still underrepresented  - everyone has a unique story to tell or a unique POV to offer.  EVERYONE. So my advice to authors, take the spark of your unique life experiences and let that burn throughout your story.  My advice to educators - scour those shelves to find a wider variety of books. Also - if you write for a YA/MG audience, librarians and educators are more and more eager to the ditch the old canon and form partnerships with authors. Look for opportunities like #KidsNeedMentors or reach out to your local schools and libraries.   Book Talk - Most Anticipated Middle Grade Books of 2019   The last couple of episodes were all about looking back on some of the best that middle grade had to offer in 2018. (If you missed those, go check out episodes #66 and #67.)  But today is all about looking forward into the new year. Last year, when I did our Most Anticipated MG of 2018, I went chronologically by month. But this year I’m going about it a little differently and discussing the new releases by category.     First, we’ll chat about the new graphic novels coming up in 2019. And then we’ll talk about new releases from authors who debuted in 2018 and 2017 and see what they’re up to now. After that, I’ll give you a peek at some of the 2019 debut middle grade authors.  Then we’ll see what new books are coming out in favorite series and what sequels we have to look forward to. And finally, we’ll finish up with the 2019 releases from more established authors.   So, buckle up and get ready to add to your wish list. And remember - no need to go hunting for a pen and paper. You can find every book mentioned AND a picture of the available covers AND a link to pre-order them right on the Books Between post for this episode, #69, at MGBookVillage.com.  I’ve got your back, I know you’re busy, so it’s all right there for you. And as I’ve said before, I’ve come to really love pre-ordering - it helps out favorite authors and it’s like a little surprise to your future self.   Before we jump in, just remember that this is just a sampling of all the incredible books coming out this year. I’ll add some links to some other great resources in the show notes and on the website where you can find more complete listings of titles to browse through and the MGBookVillage website has a great release calendar so that’s one to bookmark for sure.   https://www.goodreads.com/list/show/111975.Middle_Grade_Novels_of_2019 http://novelnineteens.com/books/middle-grade-books https://mgbookvillage.org/2018releasedates/ http://www.teenlibrariantoolbox.com/2018/12/19-2019-middle-grade-books-to-have-on-your-radar/ https://www.readbrightly.com/middle-grade-books-2019/ https://www.bookish.com/articles/must-read-childrens-books-winter-2019/ http://www.popgoesthereader.com/target-audience-middle-grade/70-middle-grade-novels-i-cant-wait-to-read-in-2019/   Also - publication dates do occasionally change, so just be aware of that.   Alright, get your Goodreads tab open, or your library website pulled up, or your Amazon/Indiebound shopping cart ready, or ….. print out the show notes and bring it to your favorite local bookstore!   Alright - let’s get to it! The 2019 Graphic Novels This January, Lincoln Peirce, the author of Big Nate, has a new graphic/illustrated novel series set in the middle ages called Max and the Midknights that looks really, really cute. Also out on January 8th is Click by Kayla Miller - the story of 5th grader Olive who is having some trouble finding where she “clicks” in middle school. The sequel, called Camp, is being released this April so fans won’t have to wait long for the next one. A fantasy graphic novel that Mel Schuit recommended that I check out is The Chancellor and the Citadel by Maria Capelle Frantz so that’s on my radar now - and yours! Thank you, Mel! On January 29th another Hilo is coming our way! Hilo 5: Then Everything Went Wrong. And on that same day the 5th Bird & Squirrel is coming out called All Tangled Up. One graphic novel adaptation that has really piqued my interest is Meg, Jo, Beth, and Amy: A Modern Retelling of Little Women by Rey Tercerio and illustrator Bre Indigo. The classic is reimagined as a blended family living in modern-day New York City. I don’t think I’ve ever hit “pre-order” faster and will be eagerly stalking my delivery person on February 5th for that one! My mailbox is going to be brimming on February 5th because I also HAD to preorder New Kid by Jerry Craft!  It’s about seventh grader Jordan Banks who loves drawing cartoons and dreams of going to art school. But his parents enroll him in a prestigious private school instead, where Jordan is one of the few kids of color in his entire grade. Looks amazing!!  90-Second Newbery was singing its praises on Twitter last night and said this about it: “The amazing graphic novel New Kid by @JerryCraft should definitely be on everyone's tbr list and it has a full-cast (and all-star cast) audiobook released at the same time….perfect for rich, nuanced convos abt race, class, identity, school systems, how we share books, code switching, starting new school, just so much!”   So, yeah… I’ll just wait here for a bit while you hit pause and go order that! We also get  the second Wings of Fire graphic novel, The Lost Heir, on February 26th AND the second Mr. Wolf’s Class book called Mystery Club. And a heads up that the graphic novel of The Hidden Kingdom (Wings of Fire Book 3) is out in October 2019. For those Minecraft fans in your life, this March we get another Diary of an 8-Bit Warrior graphic novel - Forging Destiny. And for older middle grade kids - maybe 11 or 12 and up -  look for the new graphic novel adaptations of The Iliad and The Odyssey this March as well. And fans of Terri Libenson’s Invisible Emmie and Positively Izzie will want to get their hands on Just Jaime - coming out May7th. There were lots of smiles among my students today when I told them that news! Bad Guys #9 - The Bad Guys in the Big Bad Wolf is out June 25th.  Perfect launch for a fun summer read. This August brings us Best Friends, the sequel to Shannon Hale and LeUyen Pham’s Real Friends -  out on August 27th. And have you seen the cover? It’s Shannon at the top of a rollercoaster with this vibrant purple background. Love it, love it, love it! And Dog Man fans (like my daughter) will be psyched this August because we are getting Dog Man #7: For Whom the Ball Rolls! The seventh graphic novel adaptation of the Baby-sitters Club, Boy Crazy Stacey, illustrated by Gale Carrigan, will be out September 3rd. That’s one of those no-brainer preorders for my classroom library. Also - I was interested to hear that R.J. Palacio is publishing her first graphic novel Wonder story this fall called White Bird. This one is Julian’s grandmother’s story about her life as a young Jewish girl hidden away by a family in Nazi-occupied France during World War II. So be on the lookout for that one September 3rd as well. You want another don’t-even-have-to-think-about-it-just-preorder-it graphic novel? Guts - the long-awaited new Raina Telgemeier graphic memoir is out September 17th!! September also brings the latest from Tillie Walden - Are You Listening.  The peeks I’ve seen of that online look incredible, so that one is definitely on my radar this fall. And then….….. Drumroll please…… Mighty Jack and Zita the Spacegirl!! Ahhhh!!  I knew it! That last page in Mighty Jack and the Goblin King was just too good not to be followed up with a joint adventure. Yay! Jen Wang -  author of last year’s hit, The Prince & the Dressmaker, has a new graphic novel coming out in September called  Stargazing. This one draws on her personal experiences and is the story of two friends - Moon and Christine. And this November we’ll get The Midwinter Witch - the third and final book in the trilogy that includes The Witch Boy and The Hidden Witch. And - wow, I’m just going to start saving up now for September because the graphic novel adaptation of Kwame Alexander’s The Crossover is also coming out on September 24th!  It’s going to be a pancakes and ramen noodles for dinner kind of a month if I want to keep up with all these awesome books coming out!  (And I haven’t even gotten past the graphic novels!) And…. I think, maybe, possibly.. that Amulet #9 (the final one of the series) will be released late this year. But I can’t find much info on it. No title, no date, no synopsis - nada! So, I’m cautiously optimistic that it will arrive in 2019. Finally - another graphic novel to be on the lookout for later in 2019 is Twins by author Varian Johnson who you may know from The Parker Inheritance and illustrator Shannon Wright. The publication date isn’t yet announced, but apparently it’s about twin sisters struggling to figure out individual identities in middle school and it’s based on Johnson’s own childhood experiences as a twin. New Releases from 2017 / 2018 Debut Authors   Early February brings us the second in Anna Meriano’s Love, Sugar, Magic series called A Sprinkle of Spirits and oh is that cover gorgeous! And definitely snag a copy of the sequel to Jarrett Lerner’s EngiNerds - Revenge of the EngiNerds out on February 19th. It is EVEN FUNNIER than the first one. And that’s saying something! Another book I’m looking forward to is Jen Petro-Roy’s Good Enough - about a young girl with an eating disorder. Game of Stars by Sayantani DasGupta - the follow up to The Serpent’s Secret is out on February 26th. And the end of February also brings us Bone Hollow  by Skeleton Tree author Kim Ventrella. Also be on the lookout for The Hunt for the Mad Wolf’s Daughter by Diane Magras on March 5th. That sequel is getting rave reviews so it’s definitely one to add to your library. Alyson Gerber, author of Braced, will have a new novel out called Focused. It’s about a middle school girl who loves chess and has been recently diagnosed with ADHD. Definitely a book a lot of my students will be able to connect with! In the last week of April we get the sequel to Roshani Chokshi’s Aru Shah and the End of Time called Aru Shah and Song of Death This April brings us the second novel from Rebecca Donnelly called The Friendship Lie. One book I’m excited to dip into this spring is Up for Air by Laurie Morrison. You might know her from last year’s Every Shiny Thing. From the author of 2017’s The Epic Fail of Arturo Zamora and 2018’s Marcus Vega Doesn’t Speak Spanish comes Each Tiny Spark. This is Pablo Cartaya’s third MG novel and this one features a young girl, a father recently returned from deployment, and… welding. So look for that one in August. And The Cryptid Keeper, the sequel to Lija Fisher’s 2018 The Cryptid Catcher is out this August as is Melissa Sarno’s A Swirl of Ocean. In September comes the sequel to Insignificant Events in the Life of a Cactus by Dusti Bowling. It’s called Momentous Events in the Life of a Cactus and follows Aven’s adventures as she heads into high school. At first I thought that might put it in the YA category, but from what I can tell, it’s still middle grade. This fall we’ll also be treated to Abby Cooper’s third novel - Friend or Fiction. Just like Sticks and Stones and Bubbles, this one is also magical realism. It’s about a girl named Jade. In the pages of her notebook, she writes all about Zoe--the most amazing best friend anyone could dream of. But when pretend Zoe appears in real life thanks to a magical experiment gone right, Jade isn't so sure if she likes sharing her imaginary friend with the real world.   Another treat in store for you this fall is the third novel by Elly Swartz - Give and Take. This book is about 12 year-old Maggie whose grandmother’s recent death has triggered her to start hoarding things under her bed. 2019 Debut Authors   So - I’ll just say right now that I could have had an ENTIRE show just dedicated to the amazing middle grade debuts coming our way this year but at some point, I had to cut myself off.  So - I’ll include a link to the Novel19s website where you find many more middle grade debuts and discover some of your new favorite authors.   The Whisperers is Greg Howard’s middle grade debut and one that has really caught my eye. Just listen to this description: “Eleven-year-old Riley believes in the whispers, magical fairies that will grant you wishes if you leave them tributes. Riley has a lot of wishes. He wishes bullies at school would stop picking on him. He wishes Dylan, his 8th grade crush, liked him, and Riley wishes he would stop wetting the bed. But most of all, Riley wishes for his mom to come back home.” Oooo…. This one is out January 15th. If you are looking for a new book for younger middle grade readers - something along the lines of Ramona Quimby or Stella Diaz - check out Meena Meets Her Match by Karla Manternatch. One book that keeps popping up into my radar is the middle grade debut of Padma Venkatraman called The Bridge Home about four children who discover strength and grit and family while dealing with homelessness. That one comes out Feb 5th so be on the lookout for that one. Another debut that I have been dying to read is The Simple Art of Flying by Cory Leonardo!  Let me just read you the teaser: “Born in a dismal room in a pet store, Alastair the African grey parrot dreams of escape to bluer skies. He’d like nothing more than to fly away to a palm tree with his beloved sister, Aggie. But when Aggie is purchased by twelve-year-old Fritz, and Alastair is adopted by elderly dance-enthusiast and pie-baker Albertina Plopky, the future looks ready to crash-land.”  My step-mother had parrots when I was growing up, so this one in particular I really am interested in reading! So I’ll be checking my mailbox for that one on February 12th. Another debut I am excited to read this year is Joshua Levy’s Seventh Grade vs. the Galaxy! Since one of my goals this year is to introduce my students to more science fiction, a story about a school on a spaceship orbiting Jupiter would be perfect! On March 12 we get Lisa Moore Ramée’s debut A Good Kind of Trouble about a girl who just wants to follow the rules. And sometime this spring we get rather the opposite in Bernice Buttman, Model Citizen by Niki Lenz. This one is about a “bully” who ends up living with her aunt who is a nun and tries to turn over a new leaf. This March is the debut of Julia Nobel with The Mystery of Black Hollow Lane about a girl who gets shipped off to a British boarding school and finds a box of medallions that might just be connected to the disappearance of her father. A graphic novel debut coming in March that looks fabulous is Red Panda & Moon Bear by Jarod Roselló. It’s about two Latinx kids who defend their neighborhood from threats both natural and supernatural. And in late April is the first book in a new MG detective series called Kazu Jones and the Denver Dognappers by Shauna Holyoak and a time-traveling action adventure that will transport readers to ancient Egypt called Jagger Jones & the Mummy’s Ankh by Malayna Evans. Hurricane Season by debut author Nicole Melleby comes out May 7th and oh how do I want to read this novel!  On a recent #MGLitChat focused on the 2019 debut authors, the moderator asked, “What do you hope young readers take away from your book?”  And Nicole Melleby said the following, “ I want them to take away that they’re not alone, that they’re seen, that mental illness is hard but manageable, and that love may have its limits, but help comes in all shapes and sizes. Also that Van Gogh was a brilliant man.”  After reading Vincent & Theo last summer - uhhh…. gimme that book!! Another great middle grade debut to look for on May 7th is Just South of Home by Karen Stong which is described as Blackish meets Goosebumps. The story follows a rule-abiding girl who must team up with her trouble making cousin, goofy younger brother, and his best friend to unravel a mysterious haunting in their tiny Southern town. Also coming this spring is a book that I immediately knew I wanted to read. It’s called Planet Earth is Blue by Nicole Panteleakos. (So, I was pretty much ALREADY sold by the Bowie reference.) The book follows Nova, an autistic, nonverbal, space-obsessed 12-year-old who is awaiting the Challenger shuttle launch and the return of her big sister, Bridget, as she struggles to be understood by her new foster family.  I was a 4th grader when The Challenger Disaster happened and vividly remember watching it happen live on tv, so I am really interested to see how that plays out in this book. Another debut to look for early this summer is All of Me by Chris Baron - a novel in verse about a 13 year old boy who is dealing with a big move, struggles in his parents’ marriage, and his own body image issues. So… if you are a close listener, you have probably figured out that I’m a sucker for books involving baking or cooking.  Maybe that’s why Midsummer’s Mayhem by Rajani LaRocca just leapt out at me when I stumbled across it last month. This is a contemporary-fantasy retelling of A Midsummer Night’s Dream about an 11 year old Indian American girl whose father is a food writer and whose mother is a successful businesswoman. But when she adds some rather…. unusual (and maybe magical?) ingredients to her baking, things get out of hand. So look for that one on June 4th. And if your kids are looking for a fun spooky read this summer, Ollie Oxley and the Ghost comes out on June 18th and looks really cute. It’s about a boy who moves to California and ends up becoming friends with a ghost from the Gold Rush era. Ghost Squad by Claribel Ortega is another paranormal middle grade coming this September and it’s described as Coco meets Stranger Things. So, uh… yeah...gimme that for sure! Also coming out this September is The Light in the Lake by Sarah Baughman - a book about a young girl who finds herself caught between her love of science and her late twin brother's belief in magic. Sequels and Favorite Series This January 29th we’re getting two awesome books: a 4th in the Crime Biters series - Fangs for Everything AND I Survived the Battle of D-Day, 1944 by Lauren Tarshis.  And watching out for another I Survived book in September called I Survived the Great Molasses Flood, 1919. Also in 2019 we are getting not one but TWO new Babysitting Nightmares books! The Phantom Hour this January 29th and The Twilight Curse on August 20th. February 5th brings another Stick Dog book - Stick Dog Gets the Tacos AND the third Frazzled book by Booki Vivat! This one is called Minor Incidents and Absolute Uncertainties. I just love her titles! In late February kids will be getting book 4 in the DC Comics Secret Hero Society - Science Fair Crisis! Lion Down by Stuart Gibb is out on February 26th. The second in his FunJungle series and the follow up to Panda-monium.) In March comes book five in The School for Good & Evil series: A Crystal of Time , a new Emily Windsnap novel called Emily Windsnap and The Pirate Prince, and another in the Fairy Tale Reform School series called Wished. In March we also get a seventh Jedi Academy Book called Revenge of the Sis. This one starts a new storyline and is written by Amy Ignatow with Jarret Krosoczka illustrating. And an as yet untitled 8th Jedi Academy novel is scheduled for September 2019. AND I’m really excited for the third BAT book: Bat and the End of Everything by Elana K. Arnold.  My daughter’s 4th grade class read the first book and they - of course! - fell hard for this series! Jeff Kinney fans will be excited about Diary of an Awesome Friendly Kid - a book told from Rowley’s point of view that is out this April. And that month also brings us another Unicorn Rescue Society novel - The Chupacabras of the Rio Grande. And my 9 year old is going to be thrilled when I tell her that Katherine Applegate’s sequel to The Endling is coming out May 7th. It’s called Endling: The First and is already in my cart. The second book in Laura Ruby’s York series - The Clockwork Ghost is also headed our way this May and so is Another Fenway & Hattie book - In the Wild! Natalie Lloyd’s sequel to The Problim Children - Carnival Catastrophe is due to be out June 25th. And not quite a sequel but more of a spin-off, is Dough Boys by Paula Chase - author of 2018’s So Done. Characters Simp and Rollie are the leads in this novel told in two voices. Also - Karina Yan Glaser’s third Vanderbeekers novel is coming this September - The Vanderbeekers to the Rescue! And finally - just announced this morning - is Kate DiCamillo’s new novel coming September 24th - Beverly, Right Here. And if you guessed that this is the Beverly from Raymie Nightingale - then you are correct!  So now each of the three girls will have their own novel. By the way - if you haven’t seen it yet, the cover by Amy June Bates is stunning!!     2019 New Releases from Established Authors   First up here is the book I am devouring right now - The Remarkable Journey of Coyote Sunrise by Dan Gemeinhart which just came out on January 8th. And oh…. does this book live up to its hype! Brace yourself to hear lots more about this one later! Also out this January is a book my friend Sandy has been raving about - The Unsung Hero of Birdsong, U.S.A by Coretta Scott King honor nominee Brenda Woods. So I definitely need to add that one to my TBR list. This January readers will get a new Gordon Korman novel - Unteachables AND a new Andrew Clements novel - The Friendship War. January also brings us the first book in the really incredible Rick Riordan Presents Imprint - Dragon Pearl by Yoon Ha Lee. This is a space opera about thirteen-year-old Min, who comes from a long line of fox spirits. (By the way - if you have kids who love Rick Riordan’s novels or who love adventure books with a dash of humor and myth - then check out his Imprint site. I’ll include a link in the show notes so you can check them all out. From those lucky enough to read advanced copies, I haven’t heard anything but praise.) Pink Hair and Other Terrible Ideas by Andrea Pyros is one to watch out for this February. And another upper middle grade February release that caught my attention is a joint novel told in letters by Counting by 7s author Holly Goldberg Sloan and The Interestings author Meg Wolitzer. It’s called To Night Owl from Dogfish and it’s about two very different 12 year-old girls named Averie and Bett who are sent off to the same sleepaway camp in order to bond after their single dads fall in love with each other. February also bring us another novel by Anne Urso (author of the critically acclaimed The Real Boy) This novel, The Lost Girl, is about identical twins Lark and Iris.   On March 5th we get another Lisa Graff novel called Far Away about a girl, CJ, whose aunt is a psychic medium who claims that she carries messages from the dead. And I’m really psyched for We’re Not From Here by Tapper Twins author Geoff Rodkey. This novel is also out March 5th and is about refugees from planet Earth who need to find a new home on a faraway planet. I had the opportunity to read an ARC of this one and it’s quirky and hilarious… and timely. Definitely add this one to your pre orders. March also brings us another Rick Riordan Present’s book called Sal and Gabi Break the Universe by Carlos Hernandez. I’ve been hearing lots of great buzz about this one, so I’ll definitely need to pre-order a copy. On March 19th we get a new Kevin Henkes novel called Sweeping Up the Heart and this one is the story of the spring break that changes seventh-grader Amelia Albright’s life forever. In late March Natalie Lloyd fans will be treated to Over the Moon - a story about twelve-year-old Mallie who lives in a mining town where boys leave school at 12 to work in the mines, and girls leave to work as servants for the wealthy. But of course with that quintessentially Lloyd magic interwoven. And another Cynthia Lord book is coming out this March! She is the author of Rules and A Handful of Stars. This one is titled Because of the Rabbit and is about a young girl who starts public school for the first time after being homeschooled. Where the Heart Is by Jo Knowles is coming out April 2nd and a really interesting looking book called Summer of a Thousand Pies by Margaret Dilloway will be released April 16th. It’s about a girl who has to save her aunt’s pie shop. I think this one would be  a winner for kids who enjoy shows like The Great British Baking Show. In early May, we get to read Lynda Mullaly Hunt’s next novel, Shouting at the Rain about a girl named Delsie who lives with her grandmother, loves tracking weather, and who starts to wish for a more “regular” family and life. You can’t go wrong with the author of Fish in a Tree and One for the Murphys so… just pop this one in your cart now! And another novel that is getting all kinds of early buzz is the latest from K.A. Reynolds called Spinner of Dreams. It’s being called “inventive, empathetic, and strange in all the best ways.”  Plus - it has a really otherworldly cover that I just want to stare at... And finally - I know you all have heard me rave about this one before - but Barbara Dee’s Maybe He Just Likes You is going to be AMAZING!  My students and I got the chance to read the first chapter and we were all already hooked. But let me give you a little taste from the teaser: “For seventh grader Mila, it starts with an unwanted hug on the school blacktop. The next day, it’s another hug. A smirk. Comments. It all feels…weird. According to her friend Zara, Mila is being immature, overreacting. Doesn’t she know what flirting looks like? They don’t understand why Mila is making such a big deal about the boys’ attention. When Mila is finally pushed too far, she realizes she can’t battle this on her own–and finds help in some unexpected places.” I can’t WAIT!!   Phew!!  Alright - I am both energized and - I gotta be honest - a little daunted! But - I am reminding myself and I hope you’ll remember too that it’s not about a mad dash to read all of these books. But to give you a taste of what’s to come so you can match readers with books they might like and get them excited about new releases.   I hope you have a wonderful year reading and I would love to know - what are the books that you and your students are most looking forward to in 2019?   You can email me at booksbetween@gmail.com or jump into the conversation on Twitter/Instagram at the handle @Books_Between.      Closing   Thank you so much for joining me this week.  You can find an outline of interviews and a full transcript of all the other parts of our show at MGBookVillage.org.   And, if you have an extra minute this week, reviews on iTunes or Stitcher are much appreciated.   Books Between is a proud member of the Lady Pod Squad and the Education Podcast Network. This network features podcasts for educators, created by educators. For more great content visit edupodcastnetwork.com   Talk with you soon!  Bye!  

Intro Hi everyone! This is Books Between - a podcast for teachers, parents, librarians, and anyone who wants to 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, and enjoying my extra reading time over the holiday break and the chance to relax. This is episode #66 and today we are celebrating some of the best middle grade books published in 2018. Main Topic - The Top 20 Middle Grade Books of 2018 I’m a bit of a data nerd, and I have always been into tracking my reading - from my color-coded index card system in high school to my alphabatized Excel Spreadsheet in the early 2000s to now where I do a mix of Goodreads and a bullet journal. So looking back over the last couple of years since I started doing this show, in 2016 I read 60 middle grade books with 31 of those published in 2016. And my top three books of that year were Booked, Ms. Bixby’s Last Day, and The Wild Robot. (You can find that list here.) Last year, I read 79 middle grade with 55 of those published in 2017. A jump I will totally attribute to the intensity of being on the CYBILS committee. And my top three books of 2017 were Posted, Refugee, and Orphan Island and my top three graphic novels last year were Real Friends, Pashmina, and All’s Faire in Middle School.  (You can find the full list here.) This year, I read 59 middle grade books with 41 of those released in 2018. Before I start - a quick caveat. Selecting ONLY 25 titles was almost impossible.  I enjoyed just about every book I read this year, and I know each one will find it’s reader.  So how to choose the top twenty-five? I have two criteria - the writing is immersive (a book I couldn’t put down) and the story has that something special - unique character, an intriguing plot twist, or a thought-provoking theme (a book I can’t forget).   And again this year, I decided to separate out the graphic novels so be on the lookout for another best of podcast soon featuring just the middle grade graphic novels.    Okay, let’s get to it!  Here are my Top 25 middle grade novels of 2018: Granted by John David Anderson From the author of the soon-to-be movie, Ms. Bixby’s Last Day and last year’s amazing Posted is this story about Ophelia Delphinium Fidgets - one of the few remaining fairies entrusted with the job of Granter - a fairy who ventures into the dangerous human world to grant a wish. Ophelia’s increasingly difficult quest to grant a little girl her wish of a purple bike will keep you turning the pages. And her reluctant friendship with the slobbery dog Sam - along with some other hilarious touches like Ophelia’s special song - will make this novel one you won’t forget.   Where the Watermelons Grow by debut author Cindy Baldwin This book - better than any I’ve read - captures the heat and the swelter of a scorching-hot drought-ridden summer. Our protagonist, Della, is feeling the weight of that and also the burdon of her mother’s re-emerging schizophrenia. But this novel is also laced with the sweetness of friendship and watermelon and hope and a touch of maybe magical honey.     Every Shiny Thing by Cordelia Jensen & Laurie Morrison This dual narrative novel is about Lauren and Sierra.  The two girls end up living next to each other and becoming friends when Lauren’s neighbors become Sierra’s foster parents.  As Lauren starts to become more aware of her priviledge, she comes up with a - shall we say “ill-advised” Robin Hood scheme that quickly starts to spiral out of control.  Watching Lauren and Sierra get deeper and deeper and deeper into that pit and wondering how on earth they were going to dig themselves out is what kept me turning those pages. And what makes this book unique and fresh was the strength of the two perspectives - Lauren’s chapters in prose and Sierra’s in verse.   The Three Rules of Everyday Magic by Amanda Rawson Hill Believe. Give. Trust. With those three magical rules passed on to her from her grandmother, Kate tries to grapple with the changes in her life. Divorce, faltering friendship, and her grandmother’s worsening dementia. Along with the typical difficulties of a 12 year old! I loved this book for its blend of beautiful prose and realism.   Marcus Vega Doesn’t Speak Spanish by Pablo Cartaya This middle grade coming of age novel tells the story of 8th grader Marcus Vega who ends up traveling to Puerto Rico with his mom and younger brother in search of the father who seemed to abandon them years ago. And yes, his journey is about discovering family, but it’s also about discovering his culture. This book is a beautiful homage to Puerto Rico and a story that captures the experiences of many kids with family connections that represent multiple languages and backgrounds.  It reminds me a bit of the graphic novel Crush with a twist of Torrey Maldonado’s Tight.   The Frame Up by Wendy McLeod MacKnight This novel was not only unforgettable but it utterly changed the way I experience walking into a musuem forever. And to me - that is the mark of an excellent book. It makes you see the extraordinary in the ordinary. Frame-up is set in a real-life place - the Beaverbrook Gallery in New Brunswick, Canada. And the art director’s son soon discovers that the paintings are…. alive. And they can travel into other paintings - which is completely fascinating when you consider that this museum includes art from different eras. And multiple paintings of the same person.  What the author does in this world is spell-binding. But things start to get dicey when suddenly the art director’s son and Mona, a young girl in one of the museum’s prized paintings, find themselves desperately trying to stop both an art heist and a plot to destroy their community forever.   Everything I Know About You by Barbara Dee This book was a fun mix of humor and history intermixed with realistic depictions of issues that young people are coping with - like body shaming and eating disorders and figuring out that whole friendship thing while staying true to yourself and your values.  What made this book stay with me long after that last page was read was the main character, Tally, whose self-confidence and style and body positivity are inspiring.   So Done by Paula Chase This upper middle grade coming of age story centers around friends Mila and Tai.  The girls have spent the summer apart and as fall starts, it has become more and more clear that their friendship is sputtering out. And yes, part of that is typical things like finding new interests and more focus on boys, but there is this one massive secret hanging over both girls’ heads that threatens to not only destroy that friendship, but could destroy families, too.The slow, shocking reveal of what that secret really IS kept me turning the pages and what made this book stick with me so long afterward are the voices of the characters that are so fresh and unique and real!  During the first chapter, I had a huge smile on my face because I was so happy to be reading a book that sounds like some of my students when they are talking to each other - and don’t think any adult is within earshot. Chase has this incredible knack for voice, and I cannot wait to see what other middle grade books she has coming our way!   The Parker Inheritance by Varian Johnson Johnson has expertly woven together multiple storylines across two different eras that are beautifully fused together in the final chapters.  The main character, modern-day Candice, discovers a decades old mystery that takes her and the quiet bookworm boy across the street on a quest for a long-lost treasure. But to figure out the clues, they have to delve into some long buried town history that some folks would rather keep hidden. This book is rich with details and touches on topics that are not common in middle grade - like the end of segregation and its impact on black schools and the concept of passing. It’s beautifully written and if you have older middle grade kids who loved The Westing Game and who love mysteries, this is a great book to put in their hands.   You Don’t Know Everything, Jilly P! by Alex Gino Alex Gino’s second novel for middle grade readers is a sweet story about Jilly, White and hearing, who befriends a Deaf Black ASL user on a fandom website where they connect over their mutual love of a fantasy series. When Jilly’s new baby sister is born Deaf,  she and her parents struggle with which expert advice to follow and everyone makes some missteps along the way. Based on reviews from those in the Deaf community, Gino does seem to get that representation right. To me this book is one to have in your classroom or library because it shows one character’s pathway through learning about incredibly important but tricky topics like white priviledge, racism, micro-agressions, and abelism. And done in a way with warmth and heart.   Stella Diaz Has Something to Say by Angela Dominguez I’ll admit - this one almost got past me!  I was at school and had forgotten my book at home. And so on a whim, I picked up this book from my classroom library and promptly forgot that any other book existed and promptly fell for Stella’s sweetness and charm. Stella is a third grader, born in Mexico, but now living in Chicago with her mom and older brother. She’s struggling with being in a different class than her best friend, Jenny,  and dealing with the accompanying worries that Jenny might be forming a closer relationship with another girl. Stella is also figuring out where she fits in with her outgoing family since she is more quiet and is working through some speech difficulties. Three things stand out to me about this book - its utter realness, the excellent illustrations sprinkled throughout, and also the fact that this novel intersperses Spanish in the most organic and well-executed way that I’ve ever encountered before. They pop up frequently and naturally, and yet I feel confident that most non-Spanish speaking readers can fairly easily figure out what those words mean from the context.   Takedown by Laura Shovan I LOVE books that immerse me in a subculture - like Victoria Jamieson’s Roller Girl, and the Irish dancing in Kate Messner’s The Seventh Wish. I was fascinated to learn about wrestling moves and the tournament process in this novel. And of course it doesn’t hurt that the two main characters - Mikayla (known as Mickey) and Lev are written so vividly and honestly. Told in alternating point of view chapters, Mickey and Lev are each dealing with their own middle school difficulties of faltering friendships and dicey family dynamics. When they both wind up wrestling for the same elite traveling team, Lev needs to cope with having a new wreslting partner (a girl), and Mickey has to deal with a wrestling culture that isn’t exactly keen to accept her. How these two characters grow and how their stories intertwine have stayed on my mind - months later.   Good Dog by Dan Gemeinhart Another incredible story from a favorite author of so many of my students. Good Dog 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 sweet, noble 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.  I love this book for so many reasons - but mostly for how it quietly but powerfully connects with Gemeinhardt’s previous novel, The Honest Truth.  I don’t want to say more, but…. if you have a kid who has read and loved that book - give them Good Dog right after.   Escape from Aleppo by N. H. Senzai This is another novel that snuck up on me and then wouldn’t let go of my heart. For the last couple of years, my 5th graders and I have read Home of the Brave together as the first read aloud. This year I decided to have their book clubs centered around refugee and immigrant stories - with a focus on #ownvoices novels. And Escape from Aleppo was the only book club choice I hadn’t yet read - and so I read along with the kids in that club and followed their reading schedule and joined their discussions. And I completely agree with their assessment - this book is fabulous. It’s about 14-year-old Nadia, who we meet as her family is evacuating their home in Syria in an attempt to flee to Turkey. But in the carnage, Nadia ends up separated from her family and has to make her way through the city of Aleppo in a dangerous effort to reunite with them and to figure out who in the war-torn city she should trust to help her. What stands out to me most is the searing depiction of modern-day war and how much my students saw themselves in Nadia’s flashbacks to pre-Arab Spring Aleppo. Scenes were everything seems stable and Nadia is all about the latest episode of her favorite reality TV singing show and what color she should paint her nails. If you are looking for a companion book to Alan Gratz’s Refugee, this is an excellent choice. And one that will stay with you for a long, long time.   Rebound by Kwame Alexander This is 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. I loved this book for it’s awesome illustratations and all those great 80s references.   Harbor Me by Jacqueline Woodson Esteban, Tiago, Holly, Amari, Ashton, Haley - these six kids are brought to an abandoned art room each Friday, left on their own, and allowed to simply talk. And eventually - their stories unfold. Stories of deportation, of harassment, of parent death and incarceration. Of hope and of despair.  And by the end of that year, they have formed a bond and a vow to harbor each other. It’s Jacqueline Woodson so you know it’s gorgeously written, but it also speaks to a great need for empathy in our country right now. And I can attest that it’s not just one of those “important” books that kids don’t really like. It was one of the top requested book club selections and currently has a huge waiting list in my room, so I can vouch for it’s kid appeal.   Small Spaces by Katherine Arden Okay - this book creeped me the heck out! And it was glorious! This paranormal horror story is about a young girl named Ollie whose mom tragically died last year, and understandably - Ollie is withdrawn and rather raw.  One fall day, Ollie disovers this strange book that tells the legend of two local brothers who come under the influence of The Smiling Man - with horrific results. When Ollie takes a field trip to a nearby farm, she and her friends Coco and Brian end up in an other-wordly battle to survive the lure of those mysterious forces. This book is so immersive and atmospheric and has one brilliant twist at the end that has me shuddering just thinking about it! Oh - and if you’re the type of person that isn’t at all freaked out by scarecrows - read this book and that will change.   Amal Unbound by Aisha Saeed There has been sooo much love for this book this year - and if you haven’t yet read it, I will add my voice to all the others telling you…. it’s incredible.  This novel is about a young Pakistani girl whose dream is to finish her education and to become a teacher. But when her mother is struggling with depression after having her fifth baby - another girl - Amal ends up staying home to take of the household. And then, to make matters far worse, she ends up insulting a poweful man in her village and be forced into indentured servitude to work off her family’s debt to him. It was this section of the book and Amal’s complicated relationship with man’s family and other servants that was the most compelling to me.  Amal Unbound was the  middle grade pick for the 2018 Global Read Aloud and is worthy of a spot in any middle grade collection.   Blended by Sharon Draper As 2018 came to a close, I started scouring the social media feeds of readers whose taste I rely on to see what books from the previous year I may have missed. And by far the one that I kept bumping into… was Blended. And oh were they right to push me to read it! And...confession time - this is the first Sharon Draper book I have read! You may already know her work from Out of My Mind or Copper Sun.  This novel is about an 11-year-old girl - Izzy to her mom but Isabella to her Dad.  Her parents are divorced and every week Isabella has to switch - switch households, switch bedrooms, switch backpacks, switch expectations…. and sometimes feels like she has to switch identities. Her father is black and and lives a far more swanky lifestyle now and Isabella’s mother is white and their home definitely has a more casual vibe. I loved this book because I know how many students can relate to Izzy’s frustrations with parental tug-of-war and that awkwardness with people coming into their lives. But this book had so many more themes that will definitely strike a chord with kids today - racial profiling, school threats, micro-agressions, police shootings, and the myriad other things that make up children’s day-to-day experiences. The Benefits of Being an Octopus by Ann Braden Ahhh - this book!  I just…. Okay - plot first. This is the story of Zoey - a seventh-grader whose primary goals in life are to keep her two young siblings quiet and out of the way of her mom’s boyfriend and his father, to scrounge up enough for them to eat, and to stay completely invisible at school. But all of those things become tricky when her teacher pushes her to join the Debate Club after school. This book is about rural poverty, the nuances of the gun debate, domestic vioience… but the way those threads play out are not at all what I had expected - and so much better. This is the novel I wish I had read as a young middle school teacher when I thought that giving an hour’s worth of homework that required colored pencils, a ruler, and internet access was a perfectly acceptable thing to do.     Front Desk by Kelly Yang Another stand-out debut! And every time I see another starred review or another reader gush about this book, it just makes me heart a little more happy. Front Desk is about Mia Tang whose family - recent immigrants from China - wind up running a motel under less than ideal circumstances. Mia’s expectations of life in America - juicy burgers, a pet dog, a yard, and big pool - differ A LOT from her true life, which she keeps hidden from her classmates. Her life is tough. But once she starts to harness the power of her writing, Mia starts to realize that even the big injustices in life can start to change. Front Desk was another fall favorite of my students and a perfect book club book.  And the last time I checked, it was offered through Scholastic for a great price. The Wild Robot Escapes by Peter Brown When a sequel comes out to a book that you adored - characters who have found a home in your heart - it’s with trepidation that you crack open that cover and start a new journey with them. Oh but thank you Peter Brown because you did not disappoint and in fact…. I may love this story even more than the first. It’s hard to say anything without giving away the first book if you haven’t read it yet. (And if that’s the case - get on that!) But I will say that this sequel has more action, more human interactions, and therefore - more personal connections that kids can latch onto. And it deals with some big moral and ethical questions!  It’a a brilliant story with a touch of the Iron Giant, a sprinkle of The Odyssey, and a little dash of The Good Place.     Ghost Boys by Jewell Parker Rhodes This is the story of Jermone - a young black boy playing outside his home with a small toy gun. A black boy who gets shot and killed by a police officer in the first pages and whose presence haunts the rest of the pages - and whose story - along with the other boys - haunts me still.  And I can see in my classroom the impact it makes on the young kids who read it. There are instantly caught by that first title page - “Dead” - and those first words - “How small I look. Laid out flat, my stomach touching the ground. My right knee bent and my brand-new Nikes stained with blood.”  Jerome is the first ghost boy we meet, but later there will be Emmett Till and others who get to tell parts of their stories. This book was both completely immersive and has that quality of staying with you long after you’ve read it. And it’s a rare book that deals honestly with racism and police violence in a way that is age appropriate and clear.  And so many people have said, “This is an important book.” It IS - but don’t get it just because of that - get it and read it with kids because it’s an excellent book. Louisiana’s Way Home by Kate DiCamillo This is, I believe, the first sequel that Kate DiCamillo has ever written. And if this is the quality of a DiCamillo sequel then I hope she writes a TON more - because this book ripped me apart and put me back together again. And I mean that in the best possible way! This book is the follow-up to Raymie Nightingale and focuses on Raymie’s quirky friend - Louisiana Elefante. Lousiana’s grandmother wakes her up in the middle of the night, piles her into the car, and is off to face her reckoning with the curse that has hung over their family’s head. Well, they end up in a Georgia Motel run by a cranky lady - where Louisiana has to take on more than anyone her age should have to.  But also learns a lot about grace and the goodness of humankind as well. Raymie Nightingale was a book I liked pretty well, but nothing compared to this. It’s like this story sat in a rock tumbler until all the extra grit fell away and this sparkling gem emerged at the end.   Tight by Torrey Maldonado This book was fast-paced, fresh, and had such a…. bite to it!  It’s the story of 6th grader, Bryan, who loves comics, who loves drawing superheroes, and who loves his mother and a life of no drama. His dad brings enough of that into their life. Money in their family is… tight. So he worries about that and worries about being perceived as “soft” - not tough enough. But then his parents, sort of... set him up with a friend - this neighborhood kid named Mike. And at first, Bryan resists. He gets  weird vibe from this kid. But then the boys bond over comics and Netflix shows and spend more and more time together. They’re tight. But that friendship turns toxic when Mike starts luring Bryan into skipping school, hopping the turnstiles in the subway...and worse. Tight is an exceptional books - raw and real. If you have kids who like Jason Reynold’s Ghost and who liked the Miles Morales Spiderman - this is the book for them!   Alright - those are my top 25 middle grades books of 2018. Now - I want to hear from YOU! What were your favorite reads of the last year and which ones should I make sure to read in the year ahead? 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 Lady Pod Squad and 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!

We want to talk with our kids and students about diversity and inclusion, about perspectives and having an others-centered orientation, but we often don't know where to start. Part 1 of our two-part series on The Counter-Narrative features Central's librarian, Nancy Gruneisen, who quite vulnerably opens up about her own journey toward cultural responsiveness and understanding. From personal experiences within her own family to her work within Central's library, Mrs. Gruneisen gives practical suggestions about choosing books that represent a broader view of humanity.RESOURCES:WebsitesBrightlyThe Brown ShelfWe Need Diverse BooksNavigating these websites requires thoughtful discernment. Some books on these sites may may not suit your family or your beliefs. As a reminder, Nancy Gruneisen and Central Christian School recommends you check a book out of the library and read it prior to sharing it with your child.  Book TitlesFish in a Tree by Lynda Mullaly HuntMy Two Grannies by Floella BenjaminRefugee by Alan GratzThe Skin You Live In by David Lee CsicskoOut of My Mind by Sharon Draper

Sharon M. Draper, National Teacher of the Year, Author, Blended. Mrs. Draper is a professional educator, an accomplished writer and former National Teacher of the Year. She is a five-time winner of the Coretta Scott King Literary Award and a New York Times bestselling author. Draper has been honored at the White House six times, and was chosen as one of only four authors in the country to speak at the National Book Festival Gala in Washington, D.C. and to represent the United States in Moscow at their Book Festival.

If you go on a lot of dates, you might be burning a hole in your wallet trying to find love. There's the food, the movie tickets, that flash new outfit, and if you're going on several dates a week it can add up. So how can you woo someone on a budget? New research from dating site eHarmony has found that young Aussies are spending around $2000 a year on dates. That's not an insignificant amount of dosh. You'll hear from former serial-dater, Rose Callaghan on some cheap date ideas, and how can we find romance without going broke with psychologist Sharon Draper.

Che cosa significa crescere con una disabilità importante?E’ il tema di Melody, edito in Italia da Feltrinelli.Parole chiave: inclusione, empatia, relazioni, pregiudizi, comunicazione.

We discuss our philosophy around fitness, what we like to do for exercise, how we incorporate movement in our families, and what we do to get back on track when we're in a slump. Last year we talked about our participation in organized activities and sports, so if you'd like to hear more about that you can listen here.Yoga with AdrieneMr. Money Mustache on biking in the coldLife latelyAbby met her new niece on a recent trip to Portland.Sarah is looking for listener tips on how to make the walk home from school more fun.Reading latelyAbby read Out of My Mind by Sharon Draper, and while she found value there she is also realizing that she may need to take a break from fiction for younger readers.Sarah finished We Were Eight Years in Power by Ta-Nehisi Coates. If you aren't ready to commit to the whole book, she recommends reading The Case for Reparations.Eating latelySarah's been instituting casual dinners when Neil is working late--snacky food, fewer rules.Abby made an udon noodle soup that was okay, but what she really wants is an easy-to-make yet amazingly delicious ramen recipe. If listeners know of such a thing, please share!If you'd like to join in the conversation, please comment on our shownotes, email us at friendlierpodcast@gmail.com, or find us on Instagram @friendlierpodcast. Thanks for listening! See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

We thought we’d do something different for this episode and play a game. It’s a Father-Daughter question game where we try to see how well we know each other. It was fun for us to play and will hopefully bring some enjoyment to you also.  If you missed it, check out our discussion on Sharon Draper’s … Continue reading FDBC plays a game! →

We thought we’d do something different for this episode and play a game. It’s a Father-Daughter question game where we try to see how well we know each other. It was fun for us to play and will hopefully bring some enjoyment to you also.  If you missed it, check out our discussion on Sharon Draper’s … Continue reading FDBC plays a game! →

Sharon Draper’s “Out of My Mind” explores what it would be like to grow up without being able to talk or walk. Join us as we discuss the challenges young Melody Brooks faces while coping with the limitations of cerebral palsy and being constantly misunderstood and underestimated. http://fatherdaughterbookclub.com/podcast/out-of-my-mind/ Up Next: “The Thing About Jellyfish” by … Continue reading FDBC gets “Out of My Mind” →

Sharon Draper’s “Out of My Mind” explores what it would be like to grow up without being able to talk or walk. Join us as we discuss the challenges young Melody Brooks faces while coping with the limitations of cerebral palsy and being constantly misunderstood and underestimated. https://fatherdaughterbookclub.com/podcast/out-of-my-mind/ Up Next: “The Thing About Jellyfish” by … Continue reading FDBC gets “Out of My Mind” →

We learn that being a demigod may not be as glamorous as it sounds in Rick Riordan’s “The Lightning Thief.” We discuss our expectations of the book, what it’s like  growing up without a parent, and other themes such as loyalty and deception. https://fatherdaughterbookclub.com/podcast/the-lightning-thief/ Up next: “Out of My Mind” by Sharon Draper

We learn that being a demigod may not be as glamorous as it sounds in Rick Riordan’s “The Lightning Thief.” We discuss our expectations of the book, what it’s like  growing up without a parent, and other themes such as loyalty and deception. http://fatherdaughterbookclub.com/podcast/the-lightning-thief/ Up next: “Out of My Mind” by Sharon Draper

Sharon M. Draper read from and discussed Out of My Mind, the Sunshine State Young Readers Award winner for 2011 for both elementary and middle grades on January 26, 2017. On the New York Times bestseller list for two years, Out of My Mind is the story of brilliant and witty 10-year old Melody Brooks who can't speak or walk due to severe cerebral palsy. Draper has won numerous awards for her children's and teen fiction; she is a five-time winner of the Coretta Scott King Literary Awards, has been the National Teacher of the Year, and received the Margaret Edwards Award for lifetime literary achievement from the American Library Association. The event was sponsored in part by the State of Florida, Department of State, Division of Cultural Affairs and the Florida Council on Arts and Culture.

The Orange County Library System brought author Sharon M. Draper to read from and discuss her book Stella by Starlight on January 26, 2017. Draper is a five-time winner of the Coretta Scott King Literary Award and the New York Times best-selling author of Out of My Mind. The event  was sponsored in part by the State of Florida, Department of State, Division of Cultural Affairs and the Florida Council on Arts and Culture.

Almost from the first moment of hitting record on this podcast, one name kept coming up as a must-have guest and that was Sharon M. Draper. Sharon is a professional educator as well as an accomplished writer. She has been honored as the National Teacher of the Year, is a five-time winner of the Coretta Scott King Literary Awards, and is a New York Times bestselling author, with Out of My Mind staying on the list for almost two years. On this episode, we talk about the importance of teachers being empowered to teach outside of set curriculums and her desire to have her books read outside of the month of February. I enjoyed the honesty of our conversation and hearing her hopefulness around the future of kids loving to read. She also shared the story of how a journal from her family’s past inspired her book Stella by Starlight which won the NCTE Charlotte Huck Award for Outstanding Fiction for Children in 2016. I was excited to ask Sharon about how her book Copper Sun was selected by the US State Department and the International Reading Association as the United States novel for the international reading project called Reading Across Continents. Students in the US and Ghana read the book and then visited each other’s countries. Talk about a perfect showcase for the power of literature.   If you are looking for an author to be part of your National African American Read-In activities, Sharon Draper is a perfect choice. Not familiar with her work and need more convincing? Listen to this episode and I think you’ll have everything you need. Don’t forget to subscribe to our podcast in iTunes and to leave us a review so that others can see how much you are enjoying the show.  

Sharon Draper, educator, and award-winning author, makes a return visit to the Fairfax Network. Her newest book "Stella by Starlight" received the National Council of Teachers of English 2016 Charlotte Huck Award. Selected as one of New York Times 2015 Notable Children’s Books, “Stella by Starligh”t was recognized for presenting a unique look at the power of family in the Jim Crow South and during the Great Depression. Winner of the 2015 recipient of the American Library Association Margaret A. Edwards Award, Sharon Draper discusses "Stella by Starlight", talks with students about what inspires her stories, the writing process, and what a writer's life is really about. During the webcast, Draper answers questions posed by students via telephone and e-mail, and talks with students from West Potomac High School's Teachers for Tomorrow program via Skype. Originally recorded on 3/18/16

Sharon Draper, educator and award-winning author, makes a return visit to the Fairfax Network. Her newest book Stella by Starlight received the National Council of Teachers of English 2016 Charlotte Huck Award. Selected as one of New York Times 2015 Notable Children’s Books, Stella by Starlight was recognized for presenting a unique look at the power of family in the Jim Crow South and during the Great Depression. Winner of the 2015 recipient of the American Library Association Margaret A. Edwards Award, Sharon Draper discusses Stella by Starlight, talks with students about what inspires her stories, the writing process, and what a writer's life is really about. During the webcast, Draper answers questions posed by students via telephone and e-mail, and talks with students from West Potomac High School's Teachers for Tomorrow program via Skype.

Martha Frankel’s guests this week are Siri Hustvedt, Jane Green, Mette Harrison and Sharon Draper.

Thinkergirl Stacey June is joined by radio chick BFF Kristie Mercer dump their co host for one hour a week to talk s*it on this podcast. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Hold on go your hats. We are are going on a trip that will stretch your imagination - to a section of New York City called Golgotham, which has been set aside for a non-human species called Kymera. They have six fingers and magical powers and they are threatened by human interlopers. It is a wild ride and our driver will be Nancy Collins author of "Left Hand Magic" next.

We are going to meet an 11-year-old girl who is so afflicted with Cerebral Palsy that she can hardly move and cannot speak. Although she may be smartest person in her school, she is treated as though she has no intellectual potential until... we’ll let her tell her own story through her fictional biography, as written by Sharon Draper who will talk to us about her book, "Out of My Mind."