"Not every book is for every child, but for every child there is a book." The Children’s Book Review, is a resource devoted to children’s literature and literacy. In the Growing Readers Podcast, we produce author and illustrator interviews focused on the best books for kids of all ages. We help parents, grandparents, caregivers, teachers, and librarians to grow readers.
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When You Find a Hope: How Allie Millington Turned Rejection into Art
Saison 1 · Épisode 113
mardi 13 mai 2025 • Durée 31:47
In this episode of The Growing Readers Podcast, host Bianca Schulze interviews author Allie Millington about her picture book When You Find a Hope. They discuss Millington's unique brain drain morning practice, her long journey to publication, and how her own experiences with rejection and perseverance directly inspired this heartfelt story about hope.
Transcription: You can read the transcription on The Children's Book Review (coming soon)
Highlights:
The Brain Drain: Millington shares her morning writing practice that helps clear her mind for creativity
Rejection Collection: How turning hundreds of rejection letters into art became a source of hope
Childlike Perspective: The importance of maintaining connection to her younger self when writing for children
Full Circle Moment: How a book born from hopelessness became her published picture book
Creative Visualization: The process of making abstract hope into something tangible for young readers
Illustration Magic: The powerful way Anne Lambellet brought the story's emotions to life
Success Journey: How acclaim for her debut novel Olivetti has influenced her approach to writing
New Release: Preview of her upcoming middle-grade novel Once For Yes featuring a narrator building
Notable Quotes:
"Even if your hope doesn't look exactly how you thought it would in the moment, don't lose sight of it. Don't let go of it." —Allie Millington on perseverance
"The more I started getting rejections, the more and more I wanted this dream to come true for me." —Allie Millington on her publication journey
"I'm the only one who can decide whether or not I give up." —Allie Millington on perseverance
"If hope had a color, it would be yellow." —Allie Millington
"It's just my desire that it would encourage others who are feeling hopeless themselves." —Allie Millington on her book
"Finding those glimmers of hope, finding people you can hold on to, that connection, holding on to each other and taking care of each other, I think that's all we can do right now." —Allie Millington
Books Mentioned:
When You Find a Hope by Allie Millington, illustrated by Anne Lambellet: Amazon or Bookshop.org
About Allie Millington: Allie Millington is the bestselling author of Olivetti and now When You Find a Hope. Her writing journey included years of rejection before achieving success, with her debut novel receiving acclaim including a review from Tom Hanks in the New York Times. Allie's personal experience with perseverance directly inspired her picture book about hope.
The Growing Readers Podcast celebrates children's literature and its power to inspire a lifelong love of reading.
Keywords: Allie Millington, Growing Readers podcast, When You Find a Hope, picture book, children's literature, hope, perseverance, rejection, writing process, brain drain, morning pages, Olivetti, Once For Yes, Anne Lambellet, illustration, creative process, publication journey, The Artist's Way, children's books, creativity, storytelling, illustrations, emotional connection, parenting, mental health
Imagining Yoko Ono: Lisa Tolin on Bringing a Misunderstood Artist to Young Readers
Saison 1 · Épisode 112
mardi 29 avril 2025 • Durée 40:35
In this episode of The Growing Readers Podcast, host Bianca Schulze interviews author Lisa Tolin about her picture book biography Can You Imagine?: The Art and Life of Yoko Ono. They discuss Tolin's creative process, her admiration for Yoko Ono's resilience and artistry, and how she approached introducing conceptual art to young readers.
Finding Balance: Tolin discusses juggling her full-time job, motherhood, and writing books
The Reading-Writing Connection: Thoughts on why writers must first be readers
Meeting Yoko: How interviewing Yoko Ono changed Tolin's perception of her
Misunderstandings: Common misconceptions about Yoko Ono that the book addresses
Artistic Vision: Collaborating with illustrator Yas Imamura to bring Yoko's story to life
Handling Difficult Topics: Approaching themes of war and John Lennon's death for young readers
Conceptual Art: Making abstract artistic concepts accessible to children
Peace and Imagination: Why Yoko's message remains relevant for today's children
Notable Quotes:
"I think it's really important to not just read, but read widely and currently." —Lisa Tolin on becoming a writer
"The instant I met her, I just knew she had been fully misunderstood." —Lisa Tolin on Yoko Ono
"She talked about being a small pebble person... if you have a small pebble, you can see it ripple out and understand that you're making a difference." —Lisa Tolin on Yoko's philosophy
Rebellion, Revolution, and Writing: Laurie Halse Anderson on Historical Fiction
Saison 1 · Épisode 111
mardi 15 avril 2025 • Durée 58:14
In this episode of The Growing Readers Podcast, host Bianca Schulze interviews acclaimed author Laurie Halse Anderson about her writing process, experiences with young readers, and her latest book, Rebellion 1776. They discuss the importance of historical fiction in helping readers understand contemporary issues, and how Anderson crafts engaging stories that make history accessible to young readers.
Anderson's Reading Journey: From struggling with dyslexia to becoming an award-winning author
Writing Process: Anderson's approach to writing historical fiction, including her morning writing routine and research methods
Character Development: Creating authentic historical characters that modern readers can connect with
Rebellion 1776: Discussion of Anderson's new book set during the Siege of Boston and smallpox epidemic
Research Methods: How digital access has transformed historical research compared to her earlier career
The Importance of Hope: Anderson's commitment to including hope in all her books for young readers
Historical Fiction as Adventure: Making history exciting and page-turning for young audiences
America's 250th Anniversary: Why understanding our nation's founding is particularly relevant now
Notable Quotes:
"I think [it's] immoral to write for children without including hope." —Laurie Halse Anderson
"With a good friend by your side, you can get through anything." - Laurie Halse Anderson on the main takeaway from
Finding Your Beat: Dusti Bowling on Connor's Journey with Tourette's in 'The Beat I Drum'
Saison 1 · Épisode 110
mardi 1 avril 2025 • Durée 57:17
In this engaging episode of The Growing Readers Podcast, award-winning author Dusti Bowling shares her journey from a struggling reader to acclaimed writer, revealing how these experiences shape her characters. She discusses her latest novel, The Beat I Drum, which follows Connor Bradley—a teen with Tourette syndrome—drawing on her family's personal experiences to create an authentic portrayal that challenges stereotypes.
Bowling explores the therapeutic role of music in the story while balancing serious themes with humor and heart. She explains her approach to writing characters with disabilities as fully realized individuals whose differences are just one aspect of their identity. The conversation highlights her passion for creating engaging books for underserved middle school readers and her plans to develop young adult fiction that bridges crucial gaps in children's literature, making this a valuable listen for anyone interested in authentic, inclusive storytelling.
Discussion Topics:
How Connor's character was developed due to reader interest.
The title 'The Beat I Drum' and how it evolved during the writing process.
Drumming and how it represents a form of self-expression for Connor.
Dusti's family experiences and how they shaped her understanding of Tourette syndrome.
Isolation and belonging and their recurring themes in Dusti's work.
Friendship and how it plays a crucial role in Connor's self-acceptance.
Challenging stereotypes about Tourette syndrome.
Music and how it can serve as a therapeutic outlet for children with Tourette's syndrome.
How teachers play a crucial role in supporting students.
Divorce and the profound impact it can have on a child's emotional state.
Finding forgiveness, even in difficult family situations.
Balancing humor with serious themes to keep readers engaged.
How characters with disabilities should be portrayed as well-rounded individuals.
Thorough research is needed to determine how it is essential for authentic representation in literature.
Beauty, Gardening, and Rhyme: A Conversation with Janna Matthies
Saison 1 · Épisode 109
mardi 18 mars 2025 • Durée 34:53
Join us for a delightful conversation with author and music teacher Janna Matthies as she shares the inspiration behind her new picture book, Over in the Garden.
Discover how Janna's musical background, love of nature, and teaching experience beautifully converge in this counting book that celebrates community gardening. From adapting the folk song "Over in the Meadow" to creating rhythmic, engaging text for young readers, Janna reveals her creative process and even treats us to a musical performance! Learn about her journey as an author, her passion for finding beauty in the world, and how she hopes her books will inspire children to explore the outdoors. This episode is perfect for parents, educators, and anyone who appreciates the magic that happens when music, literature, and nature come together.
Discussion Topics:
How exercise is critical for creativity and mental health.
Being a reader is essential to becoming a writer.
Gardening and its numerous benefits for children.
Music and its influences on Janna's approach to writing picture books.
How rhyming books can be powerful tools for engagement.
Community gardening and how it fosters teamwork and connection.
Order Copies of Over in the Garden on Amazon or
Understanding Home in a Changing World: A Conversation with Matt de la Peña and Loren Long
Saison 1 · Épisode 108
mardi 11 mars 2025 • Durée 57:31
In this heartwarming episode of The Growing Readers Podcast, Bianca Schulze welcomes Newbery Medal-winning author Matt de la Peña and bestselling illustrator Loren Long to discuss their new collaboration, Home.
Building on the success of their #1 New York Times bestseller Love, the creators share intimate memories of their own childhoods and explore what home truly means beyond physical structures. Through thoughtful conversation, they reveal the creative process behind their lyrical text and evocative illustrations that celebrate the many forms of home—from family relationships to the natural world. The discussion highlights their commitment to inclusivity in storytelling, the emotional power of illustration, and how reading together creates its own sense of home and security for children. Perfect for parents, educators, and anyone interested in how picture books can help children process their place in our changing world.
Discussion Topics:
What defines "home" beyond physical structures
How the pandemic influenced the creation of 'Home'
The art of exploring feelings versus delivering messages in children's books
The collaborative process between award-winning author and illustrator
How diverse settings in the book reflect varied experiences of home
The power of sensory details in creating emotional connections
The journey from concept to finished book as a companion to 'Love'
The role of nature in understanding our sense of belonging
How illustrations enhance the emotional impact of storytelling
Why reading together creates a lasting sense of security for children
The importance of celebrating everyday wisdom in children's literature
How books can help children process change in their world
Transcription: You can read the transcription on
Unraveling Mysteries with Candace Fleming: The Loch Ness Monster, Critical Thinking, and the Magic of Nonfiction for Kids
Saison 1 · Épisode 107
mardi 4 mars 2025 • Durée 41:23
In this engaging conversation, Bianca Schulze interviews Candace Fleming about her journey as a nonfiction writer, the allure of nonfiction for young readers, and her latest book on the Loch Ness Monster, Is It Real? The Loch Ness Monster.
They discuss the importance of curiosity, critical thinking, and the balance between entertainment and education in writing for children. Fleming shares her unique research process, writing methods, and the motivation behind her work, emphasizing the significance of true stories and the joy of discovery in nonfiction literature.
Discussion Topics:
How curiosity drives both readers and writers towards nonfiction.
True stories can be more compelling than fictional narratives.
Writing engaging nonfiction involves connecting emotionally with the subject matter.
Critical thinking is essential for discerning fact from fiction.
Researching mysteries requires a balance of skepticism and imagination.
The writing process can be messy and should encourage play and discovery.
Engaging young readers involves weaving facts into a captivating narrative.
Primary sources are invaluable for authentic storytelling.
The journey of investigation often leads to more questions than answers.
In this episode of The Growing Readers Podcast, Megan E. Freeman takes us on a journey through her creative process and the powerful stories behind her novels ALONE and AWAY.
From discovering swimming as an unexpected source of inspiration to transforming ALONE from prose to verse, Megan shares the evolution of her craft and her deep connection to young readers. She reveals how student feedback shaped AWAY's multiple narrative styles and discusses her meticulous research process, from calving on ranches to studying emergency management protocols.
At the heart of our conversation is her passionate mission: empowering young readers and helping them fall in love with reading, one story at a time.
Discussion Topics:
Swimming as a significant source of creative flow.
Reading Nancy Drew books in first grade.
How the unique narrative styles in 'Away' enhance character development.
The importance of choice in reading for children.
Diverse storytelling formats can make reading more accessible.
How Megan's transition from prose to verse transformed her storytelling approach.
Engaging young readers requires authenticity in experiences.
Feedback from tween readers is crucial for writing.
Researching enhances story authenticity.
Audiobooks provide a new perspective on storytelling.
How Megan aims to empower young readers through her books.
Behind the Scenes of Graphic Novels with John Patrick Green
Saison 1 · Épisode 105
mardi 4 février 2025 • Durée 53:05
In this episode of the Growing Readers podcast, John Patrick Green shares insights into his creative process, journey from artist to bestselling graphic novelist, and the collaborative nature of graphic novel creation. He discusses how his love for storytelling and humor drives his work, aiming to make kids laugh while also engaging adult readers with clever references.
John reflects on his inspirations, including his childhood experiences and the influence of shows like Star Trek, and how these elements shape his storytelling approach. In this engaging conversation, John Patrick Green discusses his passion for creating graphic novels that make children laugh and foster a love for reading. He emphasizes the importance of all forms of reading, including graphic novels, and how they can engage different parts of the brain.
John shares insights about his latest book, 'Agents of Suit: Wild Ghost Chase,' and the creative process behind it. He also compares his two series, 'Investigators' and 'Agents of Suit,' and offers valuable advice for young creators about finishing their projects and staying motivated.
Discussion Topics:
Star Trek and it's role in John's writing process.
John's journey began with drawing comic strips as a child.
How John's work is driven by a desire to make kids laugh.
Collaboration with co-writers and artists is key.
How his childhood comics helped him reconnect with what kids find funny.
Any reading is good reading, including graphic novels.
The 'Investigators' series versus 'Agents of Suit.'
Transcription: You can read the transcription on
Creating Inclusive Literature for Kids with Jolene Gutiérrez, Author of Mamiachi and Me
Saison 1 · Épisode 104
mardi 21 janvier 2025 • Durée 40:46
Join teacher-librarian and children's book author Jolene Gutiérrez as she discusses collaborating with her son Dakota on their new picture book Mamiachi and Me, a joyful celebration of mariachi music and family tradition.
Learn how a misheard word sparked a story about an all-female mariachi band and a young girl finding the courage to perform. Jolene shares insights from nearly 30 years of connecting young readers with stories, the magic of co-authoring books with both her children during the pandemic, and the importance of creating authentic cultural narratives that feel as natural as the clothes we wear. She opens up about her creative process, the power of persistence in publishing, and how seeing yourself represented in stories can change lives.
You'll discover:
The surprising way "Mamiachi and Me" got its title
How Jolene balances writing partnerships with her kids versus solo work
The importance of letting cultural elements flow naturally in storytelling
Why author visits can be transformative for young students
How her work as a teacher librarian influences her writing
Listen in for an inspiring conversation about family, creativity, and the power of sharing our unique voices through children's literature.
"I wasn't like because children everywhere are demanding this book... it was because it interested me and I think that comes across in writing." —Lisa Tolin on writing about Yoko Ono
Books Mentioned:
Can You Imagine?: The Art and Life of Yoko Ono by Lisa Tolin, illustrated by Yas Imamura: Amazon or Bookshop.org
About Lisa Tolin: Lisa Tolin is a journalist and editor who has covered arts and entertainment, lifestyle, health, and breaking news for major news organizations. Her years as a journalist gave her the opportunity to interview Yoko Ono in her home. Lisa lives in Brooklyn, New York, with her husband and two sons.
The Growing Readers Podcast celebrates children's literature and its power to inspire a lifelong love of reading.
Keywords: Lisa Tolin, Growing Readers podcast, Yoko Ono, picture book biography, children's literature, conceptual art, imagination, peace activism, Yas Imamura, illustration, creative process, motherhood, writing life, Beatles, John Lennon, children's books, artist biography
Rebellion 1776
"You should never criticize yourselves with words or a tone that you would not use to talk to a five-year-old."— Laurie Halse Anderson on self-criticism during the creative process
Laurie Halse Anderson is a New York Times bestselling author known for tackling difficult subjects with honesty and sensitivity. Her work has earned numerous awards and has been translated into many languages. Her historical fiction brings America's past to life while addressing themes relevant to today's young readers.
Keywords: John Patrick Green, graphic novels, creative process, storytelling, humor, children's literature, collaboration, writing journey, making kids laugh, artistic inspiration, graphic novels, reading, children's literature, creativity, storytelling, humor, education, John Patrick Green, Agents of Suit, Investigators
Keywords: children's literature, storytelling, cultural representation, writing process, family, school visits, young readers, author interviews, creativity, inspiration
This episode was sponsored by Jodi Dee, author of Energy Wars: The Awakening. For more information, visit https://jodidee.com/.
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