Reading in The Middle

​In this episode of Reading in the Middle, librarian and kidlit enthusiast Annisha Jeffries chats with author Elissa Brent Weissman about her latest middle grade novel, So Over Sharing.They discuss the inspiration behind the book, what it’s like to write for today’s tech-savvy tweens, and how Elissa strikes the perfect balance between humor and heart. From awkward school moments to the pressure of social media, this book captures it all, and Elissa gives us the behind-the-scenes scoop.Highlights include: What sparked the idea for So Over Sharing How kids navigate oversharing in a digital worldWriting relatable, funny characters.A lively lightning round with Elissa and a few surprises along the way!​📚 Buy the Book:So Over Sharing on Bookshop.org​About the Guest: Elissa Brent Weissman is the award-winning author of middle-grade favorites, including Nerd Camp, The Length of a String, and So Over Sharing. Her work is bright, warm, and laugh-out-loud funny, making it perfect for readers in the middle grade range​​Follow Annisha:​📸 Instagram: @reading_in_the_middle​🌐 Website/Platform: http://readinginthemiddle.blog Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What do fairy houses, mossy trails, and bug pooters share? They’re all ways to connect with nature—and today’s guest knows how to make the wild feel wonderfully magical.In this episode, Annisha Jeffries chats with Susie Spikol, naturalist, educator, and author of two inspiring books for middle-grade readers: The Animal Adventurer’s Guide and her newest, Forest Magic for Kids. Whether helping kids find salamanders or stir up a bit of phoenix tea, Susie brings her signature blend of science, storytelling, and sensory wonder to everything she does.Tune in to learn:How fairy tales and field guides work togetherWhy writing in a “Secret Nature Notebook” builds mindfulnessHow to bring forest magic to urban environmentsWhat a bug pooter is (and why every kid needs one)And how educators and librarians can build programs around Susie’s booksWhether you’re a parent, librarian, teacher, or young explorer, this episode will remind you that the world is still full of wonder—you must slow down and look. ✨Show NotesGuest: Susie SpikolBooks Discussed:Forest Magic for Kids – Buy hereThe Animal Adventurer’s Guide – Buy hereHosted by: Annisha Jeffries, Youth Services Manager at Cleveland Public LibraryFollow the Podcast: Instagram: @reading_in_the_middleSubscribe & Review: Your support helps others discover stories that inspire curiosity and creativity. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today on Reading in the Middle, Annisha speaks with New York Times Bestselling author Ben Guterson, the creative force behind the acclaimed. Winterhouse Trilogy, The Einsteins of Vista Point, and the captivating World-Famous Nine series. As a former educator, Ben discusses how his teaching experience influences his storytelling, how he weaves intricate mysteries packed with puzzles and emotion, and his belief that middle-grade fiction can be both enchanting and profoundly significant.✨ In this episode, we discuss:The Teacher Behind the Stories: Discover how a decade spent teaching impacted Ben's views on character, empathy, and narrative structure.Winterhouse Origins: Learn about the inspiration behind the enchanting Winterhouse Hotel and the puzzles that keep readers engaged.The Power of Puzzles: Understand why wordplay and hidden codes are entertaining and practical tools for enhancing reader engagement and critical thinking.Ben’s New Mysteries in The Shadow of the World-Famous Nine: Explore themes of fame, truth, and family secrets in Ben's best work.Writing for the Quietly Curious: How Ben skillfully intertwines tension, tenderness, mystery, and meaning throughout his novels. Winterhouse : The Secrets of Winterhouse , The Winterhouse Mysteries , The Einsteins of Vista Point , The World-Famous Nine , The Shadow of the World-Famous Nine 🎧 Subscribe to Reading in the Middle for enlightening discussions with today's engaging middle-grade authors.🔗 More from ⁠Ben Guterson⁠🌟 Rate and review to assist other readers and listen to the Discover Show. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Reading in the Middle, Annisha sits down with acclaimed cartoonist and author Liz Montague to discuss her new graphic novel, Camp Frienemies. This summer camp story is full of humor, heart, and the beautifully messy journey of tween friendship.Best known for her groundbreaking memoir Maybe an Artist, Liz shares how she crafted three unforgettable characters—Bea, Roxy, and Virginia—and how their one-week cabin experience catalyzes growth, connection, and maybe even forgiveness.We talk about visual storytelling, bunk bed drama, the art of writing quiet kids, and why being a “little bit of everything” is something to embrace. Liz shares her thoughts on what she'd bring to camp (besides bug spray) and the campfire song that still haunts her.📚 Camp Frienemies by Liz Montague – https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/740088/camp-frenemies-by-liz-montague🎨 Maybe an Artist – Liz’s award-nominated graphic memoir🖼️ Liz Montague’s work: lizmontague.com📍 Liz's featured work in The New Yorker, Food Network, and the Joe Biden campaign🎉 Follow Liz on Instagram: @lizatlarge]🎙️ More episodes of Reading in the Middle: [Podcast Link]00:00 – Intro and welcome02:45 – Liz’s journey to Camp Frienemies07:10 – Creating Bea, Roxy, and Virginia12:55 – Drawing tension and quiet moments in comics18:00 – Camp snacks, BFFs vs. frenemies, and camp survival gear22:30 – What Liz hopes kids take away from the book26:00 – Advice for young creatives29:15 – What’s next for Liz MontagueFollow host Annisha Jeffries on Instagram:@reading_in_the_middleSubscribe, rate, and review to support more conversations with your favorite middle grade authors! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What do skateboards, octopuses, and poetry have in common? In Bobbie Pyron’s newest novel-in-verse, Octopus Moon, they all play a role in one young girl’s emotional survival.In this heartfelt conversation, Bobbie Pyron — author of beloved middle-grade novels Stay, The Dogs of Winter, Lucky Strike, and more — joins host Annisha Jeffries to talk about:The real-life ocean memories that shaped Octopus MoonWriting about mental health for young readers with honesty and hopeWhy verse was the perfect voice for Pearl’s storySkateboarding, friendship, and the metaphor of riptidesHer path from librarian to author (with a few detours like rock bands and dog training!)The joy and challenge of creating stories that help kids feel less aloneWhether you’re a reader, an educator, or someone who’s ever felt like the world is a little too much sometimes, this conversation will speak to your heart.📚 Featured Book:Octopus Moon by Bobbie Pyron (Margaret Ferguson Books, 2024)Now available wherever books are sold.✨ Other books mentioned:StayLucky StrikeThe Dogs of WinterA Dog’s Way Home🎧 Subscribe to Reading in the Middle for more conversations with middle-grade authors, and don’t forget to leave a review or share with a book-loving friend.#MiddleGradeLit #OctopusMoon #BobbiePyron #ReadingInTheMiddle #PodcastForReaders #MGBooks #VerseNovel #MentalHealthInBooks #LibrariansWhoWrite Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Award-winning author and illustrator @Grace Lin joins Reading in the Middle to discuss her newest middle-grade novel, The Gate, the Girl, and the Dragon — a sweeping fantasy filled with Chinese folklore, stone lions, and a possibly-not-a-worm dragon.In this episode, Grace reflects on her journey from aspiring ice skater to literary icon, shares behind-the-scenes stories about illustrating her work, and explains why she believes books can be both mirrors and windows. We also chat about her early books (The Year of the Dog, Where the Mountain Meets the Moon, Ling & Ting), her advocacy work, and her beloved podcast Book Friends Forever.Pick up The Gate, the Girl, and the Dragon wherever books are sold, and don’t forget to support your indie bookstores and libraries.🎧 Subscribe to Reading in the Middle for more conversations with the storytellers shaping middle-grade literature. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Authors Victoria E. Pannell and Thorir Sigfusson join Reading in the Middle to discuss The Crow’s Tales, their bright and funny mystery series starring a ten-year-old boy, a loyal crew of friends, and one unforgettable crow named Ralph. From bake sales and bullies to ruby rings and remote-control car races, we explore how their books blend real-life feelings with big adventure — and why writing as a team created a voice all their own.Subscribe to Reading in the Middle and support your favorite indie bookstores and libraries!Featured Titles:The Bird Caper – Brandon’s world is turned upside down when his pet crow is accused of stealing, and neighborhood tensions reveal unexpected allies and new beginnings.The Big Dream – Brandon and his friends try to build a remote-controlled car in time for a big race — and learn lessons about teamwork, grit, and community.The Crow’s Ring—A decades-old heist, a ruby ring, and a tugboat that needs saving send Brandon and the crew on their biggest mystery yet.In this episode:The origin of Ralph the crowHow to balance mystery, humor, and emotion for middle-grade readersWhat it’s like to co-write a book seriesWhy Maplewood, the setting, feels so realThe power of friendship, persistence, and bugs that save the day 🐞Connect with the Authors:https://pannellsigfusson.com/📚 Support local:Find The Crow’s Tales at your library or order from your favorite indie bookstore.🎙️ Don’t forget to subscribe to Reading in the Middle wherever you get your podcasts — and leave a review to help more readers discover these incredible stories. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Rosie, a 12-year-old musical prodigy with synesthesia, perceives music in color. After enduring years of her mother’s pressure to become a concert violinist, she yearns for a respite. However, an unexpected summer spent with her grandparents and a time glitch altered her life completely. Rosie suddenly encounters her mother as a child. In this episode, author Emily Barth Isler speaks with host Annisha Jeffries about The Color of Sound, Jewish family traditions, the generational tug-of-war, and the significant impact of learning to listen.In This Episode:🎻 Writing about synesthesia with lyrical detail📖 How Jewish culture and family shape Rosie’s story💬 What happens when kids confront family expectations🕰️ Time travel as a metaphor for empathy and repair📚 Connections to Emily’s debut novel AfterMath🎧 Crafting middle grade fiction that honors “big feelings”Books Mentioned:The Color of Sound by Emily Barth IslerAfterMath by Emily Barth IslerPerfect For:✔️ Middle grade readers who love emotional, character-driven stories✔️ Educators exploring family, identity, and creative self-expression✔️ Librarians looking for diverse, layered fiction with intergenerational themes✔️ Listeners interested in how time, memory, and storytelling collideWhere to Find the Book:The Color of Sound is available wherever books are sold.Support independent bookstores at bookshop.org.Stay Connected:📸 Instagram: @reading_in_the_middle📬 Email: @readinginthemiddle. blog🎧 Subscribe on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you listen Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On today’s episode of Reading in the Middle, Newbery Medalist and Coretta Scott King Award winner Jerry Craft joins me for a lively conversation about creativity, competition, and the power of storytelling.Jerry shares the behind-the-scenes story of his new book J vs. K, a dynamic collaboration with fellow Newbery winner Kwame Alexander. This fast-paced illustrated novel follows two fifth graders—one who writes, one who draws—as they battle it out in a school-wide storytelling contest. (J vs. K hits shelves May 6, 2025!)We also talk about:How Jerry’s New Kid trilogy (New Kid, Class Act, and School Trip) broke barriers in children's literatureWhat it was like seeing New Kid head to the big screen, produced by LeBron JamesUsing comics and humor to tackle significant issues like identity, belonging, and friendshipAdvice for young creators who are finding their voice through words or artA rapid-fire round where Jerry reveals the one thing he refuses to eat in the school cafeteria!Whether you're team words, team drawings, or somewhere in between, this conversation is packed with inspiration, laughter, and a reminder that the best stories aren't just about winning—they’re about how you tell them.🎧 Tune in now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you listen—and don't forget to pre-order J vs. K!Show Notes:📚 Books Mentioned:New Kid by Jerry CraftClass Act by Jerry CraftSchool Trip by Jerry CraftThe Crossover by Kwame AlexanderJ vs. K by Jerry Craft and Kwame Alexander (Release date: May 6, 2025)🎬 Coming Soon:New Kid movie adaptation produced by LeBron James and directed by Prentice Penny✨ Follow Jerry Craft:Website: jerrycraft.comInstagram: @jerrycraftTwitter/X: @jerrycraft✨ Follow Reading in the Middle for more:Instagram: @reading_in_the_middle Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

📚 Bigfoot Is a Jerk by Julie Ditchburn Patton is a laugh-out-loud middle-grade adventure that blends summer camp chaos with cryptid-sized attitude. When new kid Zander signs up for Camp Bear Paw, he expects bug bites, bonfires, and bad cabin food—not a run-in with the most obnoxious Bigfoot in the forest. But something (or someone) is determined to make camp unforgettable, for all the wrong reasons.Packed with wild twists, quirky characters, and just the correct dose of heart, this is a hilarious story about friendship, facing fears, and what happens when legends come to life... and don’t play nice. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We’re embarking on an adventure filled with friendship and middle school chaos with Donn Swaby, the author of Corey Crumbly and the Lost Amulet! 🏫💥🌀Join us on Reading in the Middle as we discuss Corey’s thrilling quest, his comical best friend Sharod, and what it truly means to be courageous—even when panic sets in. Imagine Indiana Jones colliding with Star Wars… in the classroom.Don’t miss this enchanting and action-packed episode that demonstrates you don’t need superpowers to be a hero—only heart, humor, and a sprinkle of amulet magic. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, the incredible Aubrey Hartman, author of The Undead Fox of Deadwood Forest, joins me.In this episode, we talk about foxes and forests, bookish girls and winged lions, grief, friendship, and why fantasy stories are sometimes the best way to talk about real life.So if you’ve ever needed a little courage, comfort, or magic, this episode is for you. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What do harp seals, poetry, and middle school have in common? They all collide in this heartfelt new episode with award-winning author Padma Venkatraman! We’re talking about her latest middle grade novel, Safe Harbor—a story of change, courage, and finding peace even when life feels like a storm. 🌧️☀️ Follow Geetha as she navigates a new life in Rhode Island after leaving India—facing bullies, learning a new culture, and rescuing a seal who might help her heal. 🦭In this episode, Padma and I talk:✨ Finding your voice through music and poetry✨ What to do when you're feeling all the feelings✨ Why letting go is sometimes the bravest thing you can do✨ And how even the most minor acts—like picking up trash on a beach—can lead to significant changeWhether you’ve read The Bridge Home, Born Behind Bars, or this is your first time meeting Padma, you’re in for something truly special. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this touching episode of Reading in the Middle, Annisha talks with debut author Melanie Baldwin, inspired by her wildlife rehabilitation experiences, leading to her picture book, Penny Opossum: A Baby Animal Rescue Tale. Also joining is Illustrator Don Mason, who helped visualize Penny's journey. Together, they discuss the power of following one's instincts—whether that's a baby opossum or an author—and how a simple Facebook post sparked a story of courage, collaboration, and care for nature. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

👻 On this episode of Reading in the Middle, I sit down with Adam Rosenbaum, author of The Ghost Rules, a middle-grade novel that’s eerie, heartfelt, and full of mystery. We talk about the rules of the afterlife, crafting ghost stories that resonate, and why middle-grade readers love a little bit of spooky with their storytelling.Plus, hear an exclusive clip from the book that sets the stage for our ghostly discussion! 👻Stick around. This one’s going to be un-boo-believably good. 🎧✨ 📖 Listen now on Reading in the Middle! #ReadingInTheMiddle #PodcastInterview #MiddleGradeBooks #TheGhostRules #AdamRosenbaum #SpookyReads #GhostStories #KidLit Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hello, Readers! Welcome again to Reading in the Middle, the podcast dedicated to exploring the finest middle-grade literature and engaging in conversations with the talented creators behind these stories. I’m excited to introduce Jonathan Todd, the author and illustrator of Timid!Jonathan calls Boston, Massachusetts, home, where he lives with his wife, two kids, and their lovable lemon beagle, Cariño. And today, he’s joining us to discuss his incredible debut graphic novel.Timid is the story of Cecil Hall, a shy and artistic sixth grader who loves to draw but struggles to speak up. Middle school is a new world, and Cecil finds himself caught between new friendships, old loyalties, and the pressure to fit in. As he navigates self-doubt, social anxiety, and his changing friendships, Cecil must find the confidence to let his voice be heard both on paper and in real life. It’s a heartfelt and relatable story about self-acceptance, creativity, and learning that even the quietest voices deserve to be heard.In today’s episode, Jonathan and I will talk about the inspiration behind Timid, how he brings emotions to life through his illustrations, and what it was like to go from a shy kid to a published graphic novelist. Plus, I have a fun rapid-fire round and a sneak peek at what he’s working on next!So grab a comfy seat, maybe even a sketchbook, and let’s jump in! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dr. Jewell Parker Rhodes is a New York Times bestselling author and respected educator, renowned for her engaging stories that connect with audiences of all ages. Her notable works, including Ghost Boys, Black Brother, Black Brother, and Paradise on Fire, confront crucial social topics with care and insight. In her newest novel, Will’s Race for Home, Dr. Rhodes takes readers to the 1889 Oklahoma Land Rush, exploring resilience, hope, and the quest for belonging.In addition to her writing, Dr. Rhodes holds the Virginia G. Piper Endowed Chair at Arizona State University and is the Founding Artistic Director of the Virginia G. Piper Center for Creative Writing. Her literary and educational projects show her commitment to promoting social justice, equity, and environmental awareness.Join us as we explore Dr. Rhodes's inspirations, her methods for addressing complex subjects with young readers, and the influence she hopes her narratives will create. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Tricia Springstubb is an acclaimed author who is celebrated for her ability to convey the heart, wonder, and complexities of growing up. Her works, including Moonpenny Island, Every Single Second, and the Cody series, have garnered affection from teachers, librarians, and youthful readers alike. This time, however, we are venturing into new territory with her debut YA novel, How to Tell a True Story, set to be released on April 1st! This impactful coming-of-age narrative explores themes of truth, storytelling, and the burden of secrets. When seventh-grader Amber Price’s brother is labeled a hero following a tragic fire, she starts questioning everything she thought she understood. As Amber uncovers the truth, she faces a pivotal choice: will she safeguard the narrative everyone wants to embrace or risk everything to reveal what transpired? Here’s a unique tidbit: Tricia and I share Cleveland, Ohi, as our home! We’ll discuss how our city has influenced her storytelling, the inspiration behind her shift to YA, and the enduring impact of books on the lives of young readers.So, whether you’re an educator, librarian, or simply a fan of exceptional literature, get comfortable this conversation is not to be missed! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

I’m excited to introduce Emily Bowen Cohen, the talented author and illustrator of the impactful graphic novel Two Tribes. This narrative follows Mia, a middle school student navigating her dual heritage—Jewish and Muscogee Creek—as she seeks to discover her true identity. It’s a story centered on identity, family, and the courage to embrace oneself. Emily, a proud Muscogee (Creek) Nation citizen, and a Jewish storyteller provides a unique and profound perspective on this narrative. We’ll delve into her inspirations, her artistic path as both a writer and illustrator and her hopes for what young readers will take away from Mia’s experience. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

I’m thrilled to welcome Tanita S. Davis to the show!Tanita is an award-winning author whose books explore the complexities of friendship, identity, and family. Her novel Mare’s War earned a Coretta Scott King Honor for its powerful depiction of two teens going on a road trip with their WWII veteran grandmother, who tells them about her rebellious past. She’s also written Partly Cloudy, Serena Says, and Figure it Out Henri Weldon, each offering unique and thoughtful perspectives on growing up and finding one’s place in the world.Her latest book, The Science of Friendship, follows eighth-grader Rylee Swanson, who embarks on a school project to understand what makes a friendship work after a falling out with her best friend. Blending storytelling with actual scientific research, Tanita crafts a relatable and insightful journey about connection, self-discovery, and the challenges of middle school relationships. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this Reading in the Middle episode, host Annisha Jeffries sits down with award-winning author Jessica Vitalis to discuss her latest novel-in-verse, Unsinkable Cayenne! Set in 1985 Montana, this heartfelt story follows Cayenne, a girl who’s spent her life on the move, as she navigates new friendships, family struggles, and a Titanic-themed school project that forces her to rethink everything.Jessica shares insights into her writing process, the real-life inspiration behind Unsinkable Cayenne, and the themes of resilience, identity, and belonging woven throughout her work. Plus, we explore how middle school can sometimes feel like a sinking ship! 🚢Tune in for a conversation full of heart, creativity, and middle-grade magic. Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, review the podcast, and follow Jessica at jessicavitalis.com!🎧 Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts!#MiddleGradeBooks #Podcast #JessicaVitalis #UnsinkableCayenne #ReadingInTheMiddle #BookLovers #AuthorInterview Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, I’m thrilled to bring you a conversation with the one and only Johnnie Christmas! 📚✨Johnnie is the #1 New York Times bestselling graphic novelist behind Swim Team and Gamerville. In Swim Team, we meet Bree, a middle schooler navigating life in a new town. Though she’s initially afraid of swimming, Bree discovers her courage and hidden talent, diving into the world of competitive swimming and uncovering a story of community, resilience, and self-belief. 🌊In Gamerville, Johnnie takes us on a thrilling adventure into a virtual reality game with high stakes, where the lines between the real world and the virtual one blur, challenging its young characters to think fast, act courageously, and work together to overcome obstacles. 🎮In this episode, we’ll explore the creative process behind these incredible stories, the themes that resonate with middle-grade readers, and what’s next for Johnnie.Let’s dive into this exciting conversation!#MiddleGradeBooks #JohnnieChristmas #ReadingInTheMiddle #PodcastInterview #GraphicNovels Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this Reading in the Middle episode, Annisha Jeffries, Youth Services Manager at the Cleveland Public Library, speaks with debut author Jennifer Ann Richter about her inspiring middle-grade novel Bird Nerd.Join us as we explore Nyla's journey—a young girl who finds her passion for birdwatching while facing the trials of middle school, family dynamics, and self-discovery. Jennifer discusses the creative process behind her story, her inspiration drawn from nature, and her intriguing career trajectory from Foreign Service Officer to writer.Whether you're a bird enthusiast, a middle-grade literature fan, or love hearing about the writing process, this episode is packed with inspiration, heartfelt conversation, Don't miss this exciting conversation about pursuing your passions, finding your voice, and the magic of storytelling! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this Reading in the Middle episode, we explore the debut middle-grade novel Team Canteen 1: Rocky Road. This story weaves together magic, humor, and heartfelt moments, focusing on four unexpected friends during a summer camp adventure involving a potentially magical hot pink feather boa. It is a must-read for fans of The Baby-Sitters Club, XO, Kitty, and Julie and the Phantoms. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this year-end episode of Reading in the Middle, we discuss Stop the Struggle, Start the Story: Empowering Reluctant Readers. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this heartfelt Reading in the Middle episode, I have an excellent discussion with celebrated middle-grade author Nicole D. Collier, Ph.D., about her latest novel, The Best Friend Bracelet. Together, they explore the story of seventh-grader Zariah Brown, who navigates the complexities of friendship and identity.Nicole shares her inspirations, writing process, and the meaningful themes that connect her books, including her acclaimed works Just Right Jillian and The Many Fortunes of Maya.Plus, I share a special voicemail from a listener about what the podcast means to her and her family. This episode is filled with warmth, inspiration, and a few laughs, including when I call the book The Friendship Bracelet (oops!).Tune in for an excellent conversation celebrating the power of middle-grade stories and the readers who love them. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is my conversation with Penny Schneider about her delightful new graphic novel, Arty. The story follows a lonely Betta fish named Arty on his quest for friendship as he navigates the challenges of the underwater world. Blending humor and heart, the novel is a touching and visually captivating tale that perfectly mixes art and storytelling. It’s sure to charm readers of all ages! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Christopher Lincoln, the talented author known for his Billy Bones series and, most recently, The Night Librarian. Christopher’s storytelling is renowned for its unique blend of mystery and adventure, and The Night Librarian is no exception. In this captivating tale, we meet twins Page and Turner Reed, who uncover the hidden wonders of their library under the watchful eye of the mysterious librarian, Miss Literati. Together, they embark on a thrilling journey filled with secrets, books, and the magic of knowledge. We’re excited to explore Christopher’s creative process and the inspirations behind his characters and story. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ruth Chan is an incredibly talented illustrator and author known for her heartfelt comics and children's books that have captured readers' imaginations everywhere. Her work has been featured in The New York Times, Cup of Jo, and with top publishers like HarperCollins, Macmillan, Simon & Schuster, Disney-Hyperion, and Abrams.But Ruth's journey is even more inspiring. Before she began illustrating full-time, Ruth spent her teens in China and dedicated over a decade to working with youth and families in underserved communities. A proud Canadian, Ruth now lives and works in New York City with her husband, daughter, and adorable dog, Leroy. Enjoy! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

"Welcome to "Reading in the Middle." Today, we're joined by Tony Weaver, Jr., an award-winning writer, educator, and mental health activist. His debut graphic novel memoir, Weirdo, (MacMillian Publisher) releases on September 17 and has received starred reviews from Kirkus and Publishers Weekly. Weirdo is a powerful story about embracing what makes you unique. Join us as we explore Tony's journey, creative process, and the impactful message behind Weirdo. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hello, middle-grade book lovers! We're thrilled to announce a special "Reading in the Middle" episode featuring an exclusive interview with Tony Weaver Jr., creator of the upcoming graphic novel memoir "Weirdo." Stay tuned for the release date, and subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss this exciting interview. Happy reading! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to "Reading in the Middle," the podcast that explores the world of middle-grade graphic novels. I'm Annisha Jeffries, a passionate advocate for young readers. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, we will discuss "Weirdo," a graphic novel memoir that will be released on September 17th. I will talk about how kindness is important and how being different should be celebrated. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.