The Children's Book Podcast

Meera Sriram (@Meeratsriram) shares her debut picture book, THE YELLOW SUITCASE. In Meera's debut we meet Asha, who is traveling to India as she does with her family each year to visit her grandmother. But this year, they travel to mourn. Asha always brings a yellow suitcase which her grandmother fills with treats and trinkets to bring home. The suitcase in this way becomes a character in the story as well, waiting to be filled, expectant, but empty. This story is about processing loss, and I think that readers will leave grateful to have walked alongside Asha through her grieving. You can access even more information about this book and its author and illustrator by visiting www.matthewcwinner.com/podcast. Thank you to this week's sponsors: Storyteller Academy Bharat Babies And to the generous support from our Patrons. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/childrens-book-podcast/message

Vincent X. Kirsch (@VincenzoXKirsch) shares HOW I LEARNED TO FALL OUT OF TREES. In Vincent's story we meet Roger and Adelia, two best friends since forever. Adelia is helping Roger learn to climb and to fall from trees. But she's also helping Roger learn how to let go and how to trust that you'll be able to pick yourself up after the fall. Adelia is moving away. It's going to be a pretty big fall in Roger's life Vincent's care for his characters and his approach to telling this story from two separate timelines that meet in the middle culminates in some profound moments of truth and understanding. His respect for the readers and for all it means to let go is something that I think goes right to the core, both in this story and in his upcoming FROM A TO Z. You can access even more information about this book and its author and illustrator by visiting www.matthewcwinner.com/podcast. Thank you to this week's sponsors: Storyteller Academy Bharat Babies And to the generous support from our Patrons. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/childrens-book-podcast/message

Sarah Hoffman (@sarahhoffman101) and Ian Hoffman share JACOB'S ROOM TO CHOOSE, the follow-up to the 2014 release JACOB'S NEW DRESS. In this newest story Jacob and his friend Sophie encounter a confrontation from classmates when Jacob enters the boys restroom wearing a dress. Sophie experiences a similar issue in the girl's room and the later their teacher leads the class in a discussion over gendered spaces. Which leads me to ask... Have you met Jacob yet? Have you been invited into Ms. Reeves' classroom? Have you experienced teachers and schools at their greatest and also at their most vulnerable? It's a place we each encounter throughout our days, that space where we ask ourselves if we're going to allow someone else in. Someone who maybe doesn't look just like us or dress just like us or act just like us. But as Sarah and Ian share in our conversation, the kids are often already showing the way for us. We adults just need to watch and to listen. You can access even more information about this book and its author and illustrator by visiting www.matthewcwinner.com/podcast. Thank you to this week's sponsors: Bharat Babies Highlights Foundation Storyteller Academy And to the generous support from our Patrons. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/childrens-book-podcast/message

Kathy MacMillan (@kathys_quill), Manuela Bernardi (@the_mahnoo), and Kathrin Honesta share SHE SPOKE: 14 Women Who Raised Their Voices and Changed the World. SHE SPOKE incorporates historical recordings from women throughout history, making history through their words, ideas, and actions. And the collaboration all started 15 years ago over some Harry Potter fan fiction. A critical point my guests return to over and over is that their subjects each had someone who believed in them. When designing a book to inspire and empower young people, this is something that was kept in mind: the ability to see and to name that person in your life who believes in you. This is sometimes easier said than done, but it's something we as adults in the lives the these young people can work to secure in and throughout their lives. I think this conversation is really going to stick with you. You can access even more information about this book and its author and illustrator by visiting www.matthewcwinner.com/podcast. Thank you to this week's sponsors: Bharat Babies Highlights Foundation Storyteller Academy And to the generous support from our Patrons. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/childrens-book-podcast/message

Colleen AF Venable (@colleenaf) and Ellen T. Crenshaw (@etcillustration) are the author and cartoonist, respectively, of KISS NUMBER 8, a "layered, funny, sharp-edged story of teen sexuality and family secrets". Identity, self-discovery, and safe places. This conversation and today's book take these three themes and weave them together to create something important, something timely, something needed. You can access even more information about this book and its author and illustrator by visiting www.matthewcwinner.com/podcast. Thank you to this week's sponsors: Artwalks Bharat Babies Highlights Foundation Storyteller Academy And to the generous support from our Patrons. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/childrens-book-podcast/message

LeUyen Pham is the illustrator of over one hundred books for children. You have no doubt encountered Uyen's work, whether through the bestselling PRINCESS IN BLACK series written by Shannon and Dean Hale, Anne Marie Pace's VAMPIRINA BALLERINA series (which was adapted into a hit show on Disney), THE ITCHY BOOK (an Elephant & PIggie Presents title), STOP THAT YAWN! by Caron Levis, GRACE FOR PRESIDENT by Kelly DiPucchio, or any number of countless others. Uyen is constantly challenging and exploring her voice as an illustrator, giving each book its own unique look and feel in service of the story. We also talk at length about BEAR CAME ALONG, Uyen's upcoming picture book with Richard T. Morris. The conversation will leave you with a clear sense of how Uyen's approaches visually storytelling and how she continues to learn and grow as an artist. You can access even more information about this book and its author and illustrator by visiting www.matthewcwinner.com/podcast. Thank you to this week's sponsors: Artwalks Bharat Babies Highlights Foundation Storyteller Academy And to the generous support from our Patrons. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/childrens-book-podcast/message

Nic Stone (@getnicced) shares ODD ONE OUT, a young adult novel whose story centers on the dynamic between three friends: Courtney "Coop" Cooper, Jupiter "Jupe" Charity Sanchez, and Rae Chin. Their friendships to one another are complex, at times fragile, at times exciting, and always growing and expanding outward. ODD ONE OUT breaks the love triangle archetype to offer something more real, more vulnerable. And I latched so closely onto one of the character's experiences in the story that I ended up learning a bit about myself as well. And aren't those the best kinds of reading experiences? You can access even more information about this book and its author and illustrator by visiting www.matthewcwinner.com/podcast. Thank you to this week's sponsors: Artwalks Bharat Babies Highlights Foundation Storyteller Academy And to the generous support from our Patrons. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/childrens-book-podcast/message

Happy Teacher Appreciation week! I hope you're sharing a whole lot of love for those individuals who work with our young minds each and every day. Schools are magical places and for many they are the source of countless formative memories in our journey of growing up and into the world. So… I recently started a new podcast with Karina Yan Glaser, New York Times bestselling author of the VANDERBEEKERS series. It's called KIDLIT THESE DAYS, it's produced by Book Riot, and on the show Karina and I examine the intersection between current events and children's literature. We're sort of your kidlit connoisseurs, shining a light on what's going on in the world and the books that can help us navigate through it. On our most recent episode we celebrated teachers both in the classroom and in our favorite books. The episode also features an interview with Corrina Allen, host of the Books Between Podcast and a 5th grade classroom teacher in New York. I'd love for you all to go check that episode out and you can find a link in the show notes below just by scrolling down on your podcast listening device. As a sort of bonus, it brings me great pleasure to share this interview with you today. Donalyn Miller (@donalynbooks) is renowned in education for her work in literacy and as an unflinching, unparalleled advocate for readers. Donalyn and I discuss the important role of teachers in raising readers, and she shares a moving story about a teacher who inspired her while she was in high school. Never have I felt closer to Donalyn than after this conversation. You can access even more information about this book and its author and illustrator by visiting www.matthewcwinner.com/podcast. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/childrens-book-podcast/message

Andrea Tsurumi (@AndreaTsurumi) shares CRAB CAKE, a picture book about a cake-baking crab who does its thing among the ocean fauna, baking confections for all of the neighborhood animals. But crab's world is turned upside down when a garbage barge spills some of its load into the ocean. There's something Andrea said in our conversation that I'm still thinking about today, weeks after we spoke and that is, "In moments of extreme calamity it is a human thing to help." Andrea's blend of animal facts with humor and a beckoning for her readers to look close is something that I think makes CRAB CAKE absolutely irresistible. I love her line work and especially love her handle of story, pacing, and visual storytelling. You can access even more information about this book and its author and illustrator by visiting www.matthewcwinner.com/podcast. Thank you to this week's sponsors: Artwalks Bharat Babies Highlights Foundation Storyteller Academy And to the generous support from our Patrons. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/childrens-book-podcast/message

Victoria Jamieson (@JamiesonV), Newbery honor-winning cartoonist of ROLLER GIRL is joined by audio producers Kelly Gildea (@gildeak) and Julianna Wilson (@JuliannaNWilson) to share the process of adapting a graphic novel for the audiobook format. ROLLER GIRL tells the story of Astrid, who decides that this summer she's going to forego the camp she's attended year after year with her best friend in order to try out roller derby camp. The book has a ton of heart and a fair share of bangs and bruises around the derby court. The ROLLER GIRL audiobook was produced by Kelly Gildea and Julie Wilson and they each join us to share a peek behind the scenes of casting and accomplishing a graphic novel adaptation for listeners. But wait?! Doesn't removing the visual element go against what a graphic novel is at its core? Oh believe me, dear listener, what we discuss in terms of serving the listeners and expanding access in this conversation is just awesome! You can access even more information about this book and its author and illustrator by visiting www.matthewcwinner.com/podcast. Thank you to this week's sponsors: Artwalks Bharat Babies Highlights Foundation Storyteller Academy And to the generous support from our Patrons. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/childrens-book-podcast/message

Linda Sue Park (@LindaSuePark), Newbery Medal-winning author of A SINGLE SHARD shares her new picture book, GONDRA'S TREASURE. The story centers on a dragon whose mom's family comes from the West and while dad's family comes from the East. Gondra, like many children, is curious and open to her world and everything in it. She finds strength in all facets of her mixed race family and what I found reading the story was a strength in the definition of family, itself. Which is to say that this story has everything to do with belonging, ancestry, asking big questions, and discovering how you tell the story of your family. You can access even more information about this book and its author and illustrator by visiting www.matthewcwinner.com/podcast. Thank you to this week's sponsors: Artwalks Bharat Babies Highlights Foundation Storyteller Academy And to the generous support from our Patrons. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/childrens-book-podcast/message

Breanna J. McDaniel (@readwellbewell) shares HANDS UP!, new picture book reframes the emotionally charged phrase by following a child throughout her morning, her family time, and her time in the community. There is intergenerational support illustrated throughout HANDS UP! and as I've been reading it aloud to children I am so in awe of how their eyes light up with each page turn, basking in the beautiful illustrations created by Shane W. Evans. Today I am feeling so, so grateful not only because I get to share this book and this conversation with you, but also because this book is out in the world, perhaps already being loved in your home or your classroom or library. You can access even more information about this book and its author and illustrator by visiting www.matthewcwinner.com/podcast. Thank you to this week's sponsors: Artwalks Bharat Babies Highlights Foundation Storyteller Academy And to the generous support from our Patrons. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/childrens-book-podcast/message

Melanie Gillman shares AS THE CROW FLIES, a graphic novel following a group of queer teens who meet while stuck on a week-long Christian youth camp backpacking trip. AS THE CROW FLIES is a full-color, hand drawn webcomic that was published as a print volume in 2017 from generous Kickstarter backing. Melanie is an American queer non-binary cartoonist, illustrator, and lecturer, specializing in LGBTQ comics for Young Adult readers. Their award-winning comic has been recognized widely, receiving an Ignatz, an Eisner, the Society of Illustrators gold medal, and was named a Stonewall Honor by the American Library Association. You can access even more information about this book and its author and illustrator by visiting www.matthewcwinner.com/podcast. Thank you to this week's sponsors: Artwalks Bharat Babies Little Feminist Book Club Storyteller Academy And to the generous support from our Patrons. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/childrens-book-podcast/message

Nidhi Chanani (@nidhiart) shares SHUBH RAATRI DOST/GOOD NIGHT FRIEND, a new board book in which two children say goodnight in both Hindi and Engilsh to all of the animals in their Indian farm home. There's an intimacy to sharing this moment with the characters in the book, as the sun goes down and as each goodnight offered is accompanied by thankfulness to what gift the object has given the children. Nidhi shares at one moment in our conversation the sentiment that caring for one another can look like sharing with someone or something and noticing when they are sharing with you. You can access even more information about this book and its author and illustrator by visiting www.matthewcwinner.com/podcast. Thank you to this week's sponsors: Artwalks Bharat Babies Little Feminist Book Club Storyteller Academy And to the generous support from our Patrons. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/childrens-book-podcast/message

Hayley Barrett (@hayleybwrites) and Juana Martinez-Neal (@juanamartinez) are the author and the illustrator of BABYMOON, a new picture book about that period just after a baby is born, when time is intentionally set aside for a new family to rest and to fall in love together. The experience of motherhood is complex and our guests talk about their memories of wanting to do it all just right or perfect for their children. You can access even more information about this book and its author and illustrator by visiting www.matthewcwinner.com/podcast. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/childrens-book-podcast/message

A number of you have asked about plans to celebrate the 500th episode and, the truth is, you're all part of the plan. I end every episode of the show by asking guests, "I'll see a library full of children tomorrow morning. Is there a message I can bring to them from you?" And as most of you know, I really do see a library full of children each day. Actually, it's a school of about 600. Located just west of Baltimore. These students are on my mind with every single interview I record, and so I thought I'd use this milestone to center them a little more. I would love to give each of our students a book and a message. Maybe you're an author or illustrator and you have a book of your own you want to share. Maybe you're a teacher or a librarian or a parent and you have a favorite book you think a child would love. In celebration of 500 episodes of The Children's Book Podcast, I'm asking you to consider sending a message in a book to my students. My hope is that over the course of a month we'll gather 500 books or maybe even enough so that each child can have a book. It's a tall order, but it's also the very best way I can think to celebrate this milestone. Books can be mailed throughout the month of April to: Matthew C. Winner c/o Swansfield Elementary School 5610 Cedar Lane Columbia, MD 21044 Thank you for listening to the podcast, for caring about the guests I have on, and for helping spread the love for their books. I'm glad to have you on this journey with me. I'm including a mailing address in the show notes which you on right now on the device you're using to listen to this. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/childrens-book-podcast/message

Susan Verde (@susanverde) shares I AM HUMAN: A BOOK OF EMPATHY, which is illustrated by Peter H. Reynolds. I AM HUMAN carries with it an important yet all-too-overlooked truth: that you are flawed, but that does not make you bad. Susan reminds us all in this conversation that being seen is so important. I AM HUMAN is the third book in a series that includes I AM YOGA and I AM PEACE. If you have not yet discovered this series, I think they'll make you see your classroom, your children, or your readers, and maybe even yourself in a whole new way. You can access even more information about this book and its author and illustrator by visiting www.matthewcwinner.com/podcast. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/childrens-book-podcast/message

Pat Zietlow Miller (@PatZMiller) shares REMARKABLY YOU and WHEN YOU ARE BRAVE, two recent picture book releases that see kids from all sides and complexities. REMARKABLY YOU was inspired by the Seven Ways of Being Smart, also known as the Seven Intelligences, and celebrates everything that makes every kid different. WHEN YOU ARE BRAVE calls the reader to look deep inside themselves for the strength to be brave, despite all your circumstances or subconscious might be feeding you. Two books speaking many truths and affirming many beauties in the children who will read them (and in the grown-ups who will read to those children). You can access even more information about this book and its author and illustrator by visiting www.matthewcwinner.com/podcast. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/childrens-book-podcast/message

Christian Robinson makes his author-illustrator debut with ANOTHER, a wordless picture book exploring the literal experience of seeing yourself in a book and of others seeing themselves in the same book. Christian talks about relying on his strengths and owning that we all have blind spots. He also shares how his art is driven by his thoughts on helping as many kids as possible see themselves in his work. You can access even more information about this book and its author and illustrator by visiting www.matthewcwinner.com/podcast. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/childrens-book-podcast/message

Anika Aldamuy Denise (@AnikaDenise) is the author of PLANTING STORIES: The Life of Librarian and Storyteller Pura Bepré, an exceptional picture book biography about one of perhaps the best know librarians of our time or any. Anika also shares her CARMEN series, including STARRING CARMEN and LIGHTS, CAMERA, CARMEN!, featuring a tenacious, vibrant, creative force of a kid and the dynamics she brings to her loving family. One of the things we come back to over and over in our conversation is that there's a certain special recognition that happens when you see somebody that looks like you. It's an unspoken recognition and, for the right reader, being seen can mean everything. You can access even more information about this book and its author and illustrator by visiting www.matthewcwinner.com/podcast. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/childrens-book-podcast/message

Amanda Moeckel (@AmandaMoeckel) is the author and illustrator of KHALIDA AND THE MOST BEAUTIFUL SONG, a picture book published last September that centers on a child who is visited in the night by a song and is compelled thereafter to find the song's melody and play it herself. The book plays with the ephemeral quality of inspiration and pursuing creative or inspired ideas. Joining also is Kristen Nobles, the publisher of Page Street Kids (@PageStreetKids), an imprint of Page Street Publishing focused on inspiring young readers with thoughtful stories and distinctive art. Kristen shares the brief, but vibrant history of Page Street kids and also brings along some of their recent releases to share. You can access even more information about this book and its author and illustrator by visiting www.matthewcwinner.com/podcast. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/childrens-book-podcast/message

Mac Barnett (@macbarnett) and Jon Klassen (@burstofbeaden) are the award-winning team of many beloved books including EXTRA YARN and SAM AND DAVE DIG A HOLE. Today we're focusing our attention of three books that are part-trilogy and part perspective. TRIANGLE, SQUARE, and now CIRCLE are each stories following story structures informed by their titular shapes. But there is no room here for unearned epiphanies. Answers, after all, are cheap morals and my guests remind that the goal is the pit, the place devoid of handed-over answers where, instead, we must look for meaning. These are books I engaged with in altogether different ways and I'm grateful for the chance to go on that thought exploration in front of you all. Especially, after all, because I found one of these books to be quite polarizing and I tell as much to our guests. You can access even more information about this book and its author and illustrator by visiting www.matthewcwinner.com/podcast. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/childrens-book-podcast/message

QUINCE is a 15-issue comic book series created by Sebastian Kadlecik (@smkaddy), authored by Kit Steinkellner (@BooksAreMyBFs) and illustrated by Emma Steinkellner (@emsteinkellner) that was collected into a print trade paperback in 2017. The story follows Lupe, just your average, insecure, well-meaning, occasionally cranky teenage girl whose life is completely turned upside down when she discovers she has superpowers at her quinceañera. Her quince powers only last as long as she's fifteen, so over the course of this rollercoaster year, we follow the adventures of Lupe as she figures out what it really means to be a hero. Today's episode is guest hosted by Mel Schuit (@spiky_penelope), friend and author of the LET'S TALK PICTURE BOOKS blog. QUINCE (@QuinceComic) is AWESOME and I'm so glad Mel shared it with me. I hope you, too, get a chance to check it out! You can access even more information about this book and its author and illustrator by visiting www.matthewcwinner.com/podcast. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/childrens-book-podcast/message

Cathy Camper (@cfastwolf) and Raul the Third (@raulthe3rd) are the creative team behind the LOWRIDERS graphic novel series, including LOWRIDERS IN SPACE, LOWRIDERS TO THE CENTER OF THE EARTH, and the newest title, LOWRIDERS BLAST FROM THE PAST. The latest book in the series introduces the pivotal characters in the prime of their youth. Lupe Impala, El Chavo Flapjack, and Elirio Malaria discover their unique strengths over the course of the story amidst helping the ensure that lowrider Lupe's moms are entering into the car show will prove they deserve a place with the male-dominated space. There's also an emphasis throughout the story on indigenous words and the importance of understanding where words come from. You can access even more information about this book and its author and illustrator by visiting www.matthewcwinner.com/podcast. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/childrens-book-podcast/message

Noodlephant is an elephant who loves pasta. The kangaroos do not like pasta. In fact, they make a law so that no one can enjoy pasta. But Noodlephant will not stand for this and sets out to protest the unfairness of the law and gathers others to demand change. NOODLEPHANT author Jacob Kramer (@jknotjk), illustrator K-Fai Steele (@kfaisteele), and publisher Claudia Zoe Bedrick of Enchanted Lion Books (@EnchantedLion) share the journey of this "pasta to protest" book, and how the trio is using the story to inspire and educate readers of all ages. You can access even more information about this book and its author illustrator by visiting www.matthewcwinner.com/podcast. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/childrens-book-podcast/message

Sudipta Bardhan-Quallen (@SudiptaBQ) is the author of CHICKS RULE!, a book about confronting "no", having enough, and taking action. Nerdy Chick wants to join the rocket club, but when confronted with a sign reading "No Chicks Allowed" she decides to gather friends and neighborhood chicks to lend each of their unique interests and talents for the greater good of creating together. Sudipta talks about labels feel like death sentences, and how sometimes standing up for yourself requires a team. You can access even more information about this book and its author illustrator by visiting www.matthewcwinner.com/podcast. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/childrens-book-podcast/message

Susan Kusel and Rebecca Levitan join today on behalf of the SYDNEY TAYLOR BOOK AWARD, presented annually to outstanding books for children and teens that authentically portray the Jewish experience. The two joined me to talk about the award, what's it's like to serve on a Youth Media Awards committee, and trying to change conversations around Jewish literature through the work done during committee tenure. We're also joined by the authors and illustrators whose works represent the winners, honors, and notables from the 2019 Sydney Taylor Book Awards. You can access even more information about this book and its author illustrator by visiting www.matthewcwinner.com/podcast. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/childrens-book-podcast/message

Francie Latour (@francielatour) is the author of AUNTIE LUCE'S TALKING PAINTINGS, a vibrant and beautiful picture book about a young girl's visit to Haiti to see her Autie Luce and to sit for one of her paintings. The story not only unites family, but it instills a sense of belonging or origin that speaks to the strength of the Haitian people throughout history. Francie reminds us that Haiti is the location of the most successful slave revolt ever, that it's the place where the first Black republic was born, and that America would not be American without the Haitian revolution. You can access even more information about this book and its author illustrator by visiting www.matthewcwinner.com/podcast. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/childrens-book-podcast/message

The 2019 Youth Media Awards were announced and a number of this year's award-winners were guests on the Children's Book Podcast this year! I've gathered them all together in one convenient place so you can hear the stories behind the books, including Veera Hiranandani for THE NIGHT DIARY, Juana Martinez-Neal for ALMA AND HOW SHE GOT HER NAME, Brian Lies for THE ROUGH PATCH, Oge Mora for THANK YOU, OMU! , Mark Oshiro for ANGER IS A GIFT, Yuyi Morales for DREAMERS, Traci Sorell for WE ARE GRATEFUL: OTSALIHELIGA, Jessica Love for JULIÁN IS A MERMAID, Vesper Stamper for WHAT THE NIGHT SINGS, and Jarrett J. Krosoczka for HEY, KIDDO: HOW I LOST MY MOTHER, FOUND MY FATHER, AND DEALT WITH FAMILY ADDITION. The compilation blog post can be accessed by visiting matthewcwinner.com/blog or by clicking here: http://www.matthewcwinner.com/single-post/2019/01/30/2019-Youth-Media-Awards-Announced?fbclid=IwAR017a3tKGMOPvuWIsltsD-IinTIek4VUmwoQcEj7hLDEPBhtBiwu7rEu9w --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/childrens-book-podcast/message

Hilary Leung (@hilary_leung) is the author/illustrator of WILL GIRAFFE LAUGH?, the fourth in a series about a friend group of animals and their interactions with one another, including WILL BEAR SHARE?, WILL LADYBUG HUG?, and WILL SHEEP SLEEP?. The series explores kindness, consent, respect, and friendship. Hilary is also the co-creator of THE LEGEND OF NINJA, COWBOY, BEAR, a cornerstone picture book of every school library I've worked in. The journey of this story from self-publishing to fast food kids meals boxes is nothing short of inspiring, and you and your readers will love participating in your own ninja-cowboy-bear showdowns. You can access even more information about this book and its author illustrator by visiting www.matthewcwinner.com/podcast. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/childrens-book-podcast/message

Cheryl Willis Hudson (@diversitymom_ch) and Wade Hudson (@hudsonwade) are the founders of Just Us Books and the editors of WE RISE, WE RESIST, WE RAISE OUR VOICES. In this anthology of stories, poems, art, and photographs, fifty of the foremost diverse children's authors and illustrators--including Jason Reynolds, Jacqueline Woodson, and Kwame Alexander-- share answers to the question, "In this divisive world, what shall we tell our children?" Wade and Cheryl found themselves asking the same question after the 2016 election and so they reached out to friends and colleagues who, in turn, answered with words of support and love and comfort to empower young readers across the country. You can access even more information about this book and its author illustrator by visiting www.matthewcwinner.com/podcast. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/childrens-book-podcast/message

Rob Broder (@RGrovePress) is the co-founder of Ripple Grove Press, an independent, family-run children's book publisher. Ripple Grove's passion for well-told and beautifully illustrated stories for children comes out in its titles and their mission is to bring together great writers and talented illustrators to make the most wonderful books possible is something I think you'l see evidenced in our conversation. Joining us also is Casey W. Robinson (@CaseyWRobinson), author of IVER & ELLSWORTH, which published in 2018 from Ripple Grove Press. In the story, an elderly building manager says goodbye to an inflated rooftop polar bear. This quirky story friendship speaks to what it means to be seen and what it means to be loved. Hearing the journey of a story from idea to publication at a small press captures a certain sense of intimacy and wonder, and I think much of that is captured in this conversation conversation. We also talk about some of Ripple Grove's other books including THE FULL HOUSE AND THE EMPTY HOUSE, a picture book debut by LK James that has already taken center stage in our elementary school library. You can access even more information about this book and its author illustrator by visiting www.matthewcwinner.com/podcast. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/childrens-book-podcast/message

Brian Lies (@BrianLiesbooks) is the author/illustrator of the best-selling BATS IN THE LIBRARY series. He shares in our conversation that he's always had an interest in drawing animals and that, for him, casting animals as main characters in his books helps to make the story more universal to the readers. Brian joins me today to share his latest picture books. In GOT TO GET TO BEAR'S!, chipmunk receives an urgent notice from her friend and sets out in a blizzard against all odds in order to get to Bear's home. Izzy, the chipmunk, is the kind of friend everyone of us wants to have in our life and the kind of friend I think we all hope to be to someone in our life. In THE ROUGH PATCH, a male fox laments the loss of his dog and, in his pain and suffering, first lets his beloved garden go, and then decides in his anger and sadness that he is going to make his garden the saddest and most desolate place he can. And soon it is. You can access even more information about this book and its author illustrator by visiting www.matthewcwinner.com/podcast. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/childrens-book-podcast/message

Keith Negley (@keithnegley) is the author/illustrator of MARY WEARS WHAT SHE WANTS. The story follows a young Mary Edwards Walker, determined to swap the confining, uncomfortable dress expected of her and other girls and women for a more sensible pair of pants. Keith shares that the idea grew from media coverage of transgender individuals being restricted access to bathrooms, as well as a podcast episode of The Memory Palace regarding the norm-defying life of Mary Walker. All in all it is a story of a woman who, even as a girl, enjoyed the opportunity to prove someone wrong by enacting change in her surroundings. You can access even more information about this book and its author illustrator by visiting www.matthewcwinner.com/podcast. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/childrens-book-podcast/message

Sharee Miller (@coilyandcute) is the author/illustrator of DON'T TOUCH MY HAIR! The story follows Aria, a young African American girl who loves her hair but cannot stand when people touch her hair without permission. Sharee talks in our conversation about consent, and how most people would never touch a complete stranger's hand, and yet don't hesitate to touch a stranger's hair, even though your hair is just as much a part of your body. DON'T TOUCH MY HAIR was included in our school's mock Coretta Scott King Award and out 600+ students connected so much so with the story that they selected it as this year's winner. I hope you enjoy it just as much! You can access even more information about this book and its author illustrator by visiting www.matthewcwinner.com/podcast. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/childrens-book-podcast/message

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

Alex Gino (@lxgino) and Dr. Laura Jimenez (@booktoss) join to share books centering on LGBTQ experiences, issues, and identities. Alex Gino is the author of GEORGE and, most recently, YOU DON'T KNOW EVERYTHING, JILLY P! They are joined by Dr. Laura Jimenez, author of the BookToss blog, a site "where the serious business of reading in schools meets the absurd notion that research-based literacy practices don't have to suck the life out of literature." I asked Alex and Laura if they'd like to join me to share those "don't miss" titles they've been recommending to friends, colleagues, and readers of all ages. Little did I realize we'd all get on so well and burst into frequent bouts of giggles and bookjoy! You can access even more information about this book and its author illustrator by visiting www.matthewcwinner.com/podcast. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/childrens-book-podcast/message

Dr. Debbie Reese (@debreese) and Traci Sorell (@tracisorell) join on behalf of AMERICAN INDIANS IN CHILDREN'S LITERATURE and CYNSATIONS. Dr. Reese writes regularly at AMERICAN INDIANS IN CHILDREN'S LITERATURE (AICL), which provides critical perspectives and analysis of indigenous peoples in children's and young adult books, the school curriculum, popular culture, and society. Traci Sorell is the author of WE ARE GRATEFUL: OTSALIHELIGA and is a regular contributor to CYNSATIONS, a blog founded by Cynthia Leitich Smith centering on reflective conversations, publishing information, writer insights & inspiration, bookseller-librarian-teacher appreciation, children's-YA literature news & author outreach. I asked Debbie and Traci if they'd like to join me to share those "don't miss" titles they've been recommending to friends, colleagues, and readers of all ages. You're gonna love watching your TBR pile grow with these fantastic titles! You can access even more information about this book and its author illustrator by visiting www.matthewcwinner.com/podcast. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/childrens-book-podcast/message

Paula Chase Hyman (@PaulaChase) and Kelly Starling Lyons (@kelstarly) join on behalf of THE BROWN BOOKSHELF to share a collection of "don't miss" books from 2018. THE BROWN BOOKSHELF is a website and collective designed to push awareness of the myriad Black voices writing for young readers. Their flagship initiative is 28 Days Later, a month-long showcase of the best in Picture Books, Middle Grade, and Young Adult novels written and illustrated by Black creators. Paula Chase Hyman is an inclusion jedi and author of the novel SO DONE. Kelly Starling Lyons is a teaching artist and author of the JADA JONES series. They each have an innate interest in uplifting Black kidlit creators and so I was so excited to ask Paula and Kelly if they'd like to join me to share those "don't miss" titles they've been recommending to friends, colleagues, and readers of all ages. And, lucky for us, they even brought a couple books just for you! You can access even more information about this book and its author illustrator by visiting www.matthewcwinner.com/podcast. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/childrens-book-podcast/message

Heidi Stemple (@heidieys) is the author of COUNTING BIRDS: THE IDEA THAT HELPED SAVE OUR FEATHERED FRIENDS. This true story of Frank Chapman, the man who founded the first annual bird count, pays homage to a simple act of shaking up habits and traditions that resulted in a lasting conservation initiative that continues today thanks to the help of hundreds of citizen scientists. Heidi is also the co-author, alongside Jane Yolen, Adam Stemple, and Jason Stemple, of FLY WITH ME: A CELEBRATION OF BIRDS THROUGH PICTURES, POEMS, AND STORIES. FLY WITH ME is a nonfiction book unlike anything I've seen before. Not only are the photos stunning page after page, but there are also new, original poems included throughout the book. The book has a presence and layout the appeals to curiosity and invites readers to explore its rich content any which way the reader pleases. Two beautiful bird books and an invitation to go owling! You can access even more information about this book and its author illustrator by visiting www.matthewcwinner.com/podcast. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/childrens-book-podcast/message

Martha Brockenbrough (@mbrockenbrough) is the author of UNPRESIDENTED: A BIOGRAPHY OF DONALD TRUMP, the first biography of our 45th president written for teens. Martha approached her research with a mindset of presenting information fairly and with a lens of looking for patterns in actions and what those patterns tell us about the subject matter. It won't surprise you that what the patterns pointed to was winning. At all costs. Sometimes by redefining the game in or to resubstant the win. And all too often claiming win to the detriment of already historically marginalized peoples. Some of the information Martha presents may make you or your readers uncomfortable. To that, Martha reminds us that "uncomfortable is different from unfair." You can access even more information about this book and its author illustrator by visiting www.matthewcwinner.com/podcast. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/childrens-book-podcast/message

Alice Faye Duncan (@AliceFayeDuncan) is an author and poet, and she's also a school librarian. Alice brings two new picture books to the show. The first is called MEMPHIS, MARTIN, AND THE MOUNTAINTOP: THE SANITATION STRIKE OF 1968 and through the voice of a young girl the story recounts the sanitation strike that brought Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. to Memphis and that would reach all corners of Memphis in its breadth and scope. R. Gregory Christie illustrated the story and his art beckons readers to sit with the varied emotions that hang on the faces of those involved and affected by the strike. Alice also shares A SONG FOR GWENDOLYN BROOKS, a picture book told in poetry about the gifted and glorious life of an American Treasure. The format of this book is that of a love poem to Gwendolyn's life and legacy, and, quite frankly, I found myself clinging to every word. Two beautiful picture books, and a conversation worthy of their merit. You can access even more information about this book and its author illustrator by visiting www.matthewcwinner.com/podcast. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/childrens-book-podcast/message

Tomie dePaola is the author and illustrator of over 260 books for children, including STREGA NONA, 26 FAIRMOUNT AVENUE, and OLIVER BUTTON IS A SISSY. His newest picture book is called QUIET, and it's as much about noticing the noise around us and in us as it is about finding the quiet around us and, ultimately, in us. Tomie wrote the book, in part, after noticing that children are so busy today and it's not their fault. He wants children to be able to sit and be quiet and just be, and so we find Tomie expressing himself once again and so thoughtfully through his art and his stories, inviting readers to step into the story and find a place where quiet is protected. You can access even more information about this book and its author illustrator by visiting www.matthewcwinner.com/podcast. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/childrens-book-podcast/message

Oge Mora (@ogemora) is the author and illustrator of THANK YOU, OMU! In the story, the scent of the stew Omu has been laboring over draws a number of neighbors to her door and Omu is all too eager to share with her visitors. But when it comes time for her to eat, Omu finds she has nothing left. Oge's debut is not only an homage to her own grandmother, but also one grown out of inspiration for all of the amazing women who carried her and us all to where we each are today. You can access even more information about this book and its author illustrator by visiting www.matthewcwinner.com/podcast. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/childrens-book-podcast/message

Lauren Castillo (@studiocastillo) is the illustrator of IMAGINE, a picture book adaptation of Juan Felipe Herrera inaugural's speech as the 21st Poet Laureate of the United States of America. Lauren's work on this picture book is beautiful and it adds a rhythm to the poetic story that moves readers along with each sentiment, each memory. She speaks of being okay with any sort of accidents that happen with the art when specifically referring to the foam printing used in the illustrations, but it should come as no surprise that these "accidents" are exactly what gives the art its voice and character. You can access even more information about this book and its author illustrator by visiting www.matthewcwinner.com/podcast. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/childrens-book-podcast/message

Brigid Kemmerer (@BrigidKemmerer) is the author of MORE THAN WE CAN TELL, a book centering on the separate but soon-intertwining lives of two teens, one growing up in a foster home and the other the creator of an MMO first person shooter. The story calls into question what it means to be family, how well we think we know one another online, and how we perceive what we mean to those who raise us. Nisha Sharma (@Nishawrites) is the author of MY SO-CALLED BOLLYWOOD LIFE, a story in which the protagonist wrestles with futures, both the ones that are predicted, the ones we plan out for ourselves, and also the ones that just happen to us when we allow life to follow its course. We recorded this episode live on the Enoch Pratt Free Library stage at the Baltimore Book Festival. You can access even more information about this book and its author illustrator by visiting www.matthewcwinner.com/podcast. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/childrens-book-podcast/message

I'm collecting survey data for the podcast and need your help to collect 250 responses. Complete the brief survey using this link (https://survey.libsyn.com/lgbpodcast) and the go here to enter in our 5-book Giveaway and to score yourself some Children's Book Podcast stickers! Here's a shareable link: http://www.matthewcwinner.com/single-post/Podcast-Survey-GIVEAWAY Thanks in advance for your support and help. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/childrens-book-podcast/message

Tony Medina (@PoetTonyMedina) is the author of I AM ALFONSO JONES, a graphic novel inspired by the Black Lives Matter movement about a teen who is shot and killed by police while shopping for a suit in a clothing store. The novel retraces the events leading to that day while also following the timeline forward as both life itself a the ghost of Alfonso Jones struggle against a nation's history of violence toward people of color. It is a powerful and timely story and one that will remain with readers long after hearing Alfonso's story. We recorded this episode live on the Enoch Pratt Free Library stage at the Baltimore Book Festival. You can access even more information about this book and its author illustrator by visiting www.matthewcwinner.com/podcast. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/childrens-book-podcast/message

Jarrett J. Krosoczka (@StudioJJK) is the cartoonist of HEY, KIDDO: HOW I LOST MY MOTHER, FOUND MY FATHER, AND DEALT WITH FAMILY ADDICTION. You may already know Jarrett from his best-selling LUNCH LADY graphic novel series, THE PLATYPUS POLICE SQUAD books, or from the JEDI ACADEMY series titles that bear his name, not to mention his many wonderful picture books. But today we're focusing on something a little different. HEY, KIDDO is Jarrett's graphic memoir and it's intended for an older audience. A warning to listeners with young children: there are curse words in this episode that we do not bleep. Actually, side note, these occur during the times when Jarrett and I are reading excerpts from the book and they're some of my favorite moments in our conversation. Jarrett shares how HEY, KIDDO was a story he needed to write, yet he admits that it would have been easier not to make the book at all. There are many, many challenging moments in Jarrett's life, but there is always love, and there is always hope, and there is always someone there that Jarrett can look to for wisdom and guidance. You can access even more information about this book and its author illustrator by visiting www.matthewcwinner.com/podcast. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/childrens-book-podcast/message

Lily Williams (@lwbean) is the author illustrator of IF POLAR BEARS DISAPPEARED and IF SHARKS DISAPPEARED and Emily Feinberg (@EmilyFeinberg) is the children's book editor at Roaring Brook Press. Lily's powerful and engaging approach to big ecological topics invites readers to investigate the food chain, our changing climate, and other ways we are affecting our planet and, in turn, our planet is affecting all of us. Emily's relation to Lily's work, her hand in forming these books, is something I found especially gratifying. I also really loved that Emily said about Lily, "She's the only person that can make dead fish look cute." This conversation has everything to do with love and trust and truth. You can access even more information about this book and its author illustrator by visiting www.matthewcwinner.com/podcast. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/childrens-book-podcast/message