Explore every episode of the podcast Worlds Awaiting

Writing Process Behind every book there is a writer responsible for all the little details, world building and characterization that are loved by many. Every writer has their own unique process to complete such a feat. Rachel loves talking to authors about what their individual path and process is. So she's in the studio today with author Sharlee Glenn to talk about her writer’s journey. Storytime Libraries are known for their storytimes and we are too. Each week at around 15 minutes past the hour, tune in to hear book reviews or live readings of picture books or poetry. Today we have Joella Peterson reviewing the picture book "The Princess and the Warrior" by Duncan Tonatiuh.  Financial Literacy Understanding money and finances is an essential tool for being an adult. While children learn many different things in school as they grow up, financial literacy is not often emphasized or in some cases even taught. Today Rachel is on the phone with financial literacy expert, Gregg Mu...

Non-Fiction versus Historical Fiction Children can benefit greatly from understanding history. Especially when they learn about the past cultural events that have shaped the world that they live in today. There are many different ways to learn about history. From history classes, non-fiction books like biographies, and even historical fiction. Today Rachel has on the phone Lauren Tarshis an author of historical fiction. Storytime Libraries are known for their storytimes and we are too. Each week at around 15 minutes past the hour, tune in to hear book reviews or live readings of picture books or poetry. Today we have a reading of two poems: “I Wandered Lonely as a Cloud” by William Wordsworth and “Nature” by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow. Telling Stories Stories are a very important part of the development of a child. Children usually begin telling stories on their own, although they might not realize it. Our job is to help them engage with their own stories and embrace them. Toda...

Teen Writing (4:19)  The ability to express oneself and be heard is an essential part of being human. This need for self expression is especially high during the teenage years. One great way to express oneself is through the writing process. Today we have on the phone Penny Kittle, an author and a great advocate for helping our teens engage in writing. Storytime (16:34) Libraries are known for their storytimes and we are too. Each week at around 15 minutes past the hour, tune in to hear book reviews or live readings of picture books or poetry. Today Rachael Colson gives her book review of "Mr. Miniscule and the Whale" by Julian Tuwim.  Adventure Novels (19:49) When an author writes a work of fiction, they create an entire world for the reader to dive into. That world can be grounded only in our reality, or break off to explore fantastical ideas, or reimagine history. Rachel is in the studio with author Matt Kirby to talk about a few of his books that plays around with world bui...

Reading Aloud (3:37) Listening to someone reading a story out loud can be magical. When done well, it can transport us to another world. Reading aloud might be with a child at bedtime, with a friend or spouse, or in groups. Our guest today, Rob Eckman, reads aloud on a regular basis to children during Story Time at the Kings English Bookshop in Salt Lake City. Eckman is known as “the genius storyteller,” “emperor of the kids’ room,” and, “best wearer of the Dr. Seuss Story hat.” Whatever you call him, he’s clearly in his element when reading aloud at the King’s English Bookshop, where he also serves as the Marketing Manager. Rob talks with Cole Wissinger, a member of our Worlds Awaiting team.    Creating Picture Book Art (16:14) Next on Worlds Awaiting, a visit with illustrator/author Julie Olson. Olson has illustrated many books, including Discover America: From Sea to Shining Sea, Dear Cinderella by Marianne Moore and Mary Jane Kensington, and Little Penguin: The Emperor of An...

Children’s Books and Disabilities (4:00) Fear … stereotyping … labeling … misunderstanding … Any one of these might surface when we look at those with a disability. Our guest today, Dr. Tina Dyches, shares tips on what to look for when choosing children’s books that accurately and positively portray young characters with disabilities. Such books can be a great help for us and our children, if they lead us to be more accepting of those with these special challenges. Dyches, a professor in the BYU School of Education, is the founder and current chair of the Dolly Gray Children’s Literature Award, which recognizes high quality children’s books that portray characters with developmental disabilities. Tina Dyches has worked in the field of education for 30 years, as a special educator, professor, and administrator. Her scholarship has resulted in three books about our conversation today – how best to use children’s literature featuring characters with special needs. Books mentioned in ...

Introducing Poetry to Kids (3:47) I saw you toss the kites on high And blow the birds about the sky… That’s the beginning of a Robert Louis Stevenson poem, The Wind, written for children. Maybe you read it when you were a child. Reaching and teaching children through poetry is hardly a new idea, but who is doing it today, and what could your role be in introducing children to this kind of art and language? Sylvia Vardell says, you can open up a whole world to kids through poetry. Vardell is a poetry expert and anthologist. She talks to Rachel about some of her favorite poets writing for young people today, and for adults, too. Sylvia Vardell is the co-author of The Poetry Friday Anthology and is a Professor at Texas Woman’s University in the School of Library and Information Studies. She also teaches courses in literature for children and young adults. YA Author (13:07) Next, Rachel visits with young adult and middle grade author, Robison Wells, about his journey as a novelist. ...

Rick Walton on Picture Books (3:48) Picture books aren’t just for young children – they are for everyone. Our guest today, author and educator, Margaret Blair Young talks about the universal appeal of picture books and shares the thoughts of late author, Rick Walton on this subject. Young's published works include the novels House Without Walls, Salvador, and Heresies of Nature. She also co-authored a trilogy of historical novels about Black Mormon pioneers titled Standing on the Promises with Darius Gray. She is currently at work on a feature film, Heart of Africa. Social and Emotional Skills (16:27) Next, Rachel visits with Lynnette Christensen, professor in the BYU School of Education, about critical skills that children need to develop: social and emotional tools that they will use all their lives when interacting with others. Christensen also shares a grab bag of resources to help us teach these skills. Lynnette works with the BYU Positive Behavior Support Initiative and has ...

Storytelling in Theatre Costumes, music, dance, scenery…all become powerful elements in the telling of a story. The magic of theatre is front and center stage for us in this segment of Worlds Awaiting. Teresa Love has been working as a theatre specialist for over 30 years and currently teaches in the BYU Theatre and Media Arts Department. She also instructs classroom teachers about the value of drama in elementary schools and even teaches a class on storytelling. Love is a professional development partner with the Beverly Taylor Sorenson Arts Learning Project. She recently directed Water Sings Blue with BYU’s Theatre for Young Audiences known as The Young Company. The play is based on Kate Coombs’ award winning poetry book about the ocean.  Physical Activity Enhances Learning Next, Rachel visits with David Barney, Professor of Physical Education at BYU. Physical activity has been proven by research to stimulate the brain and increase blood flow – which, as Barney will relate, incr...

Process of Illustration (3:50) Let's get to know illustrator-author, Bob Shea. Rachel chats with him about a number of different facets of his work, including the experience of collaboration. Just how different is sharing the work from doing a book solo? We’ll also learn about Shea’s process of creating character. Bob Shea has written and illustrated over a dozen picture books including the popular Dinosaur vs. Bedtime and the cult favorite Big Plans illustrated by Lane Smith. His characters and animations have appeared on Nick Jr; Playhouse Disney; and PBS Kids. He spends his days writing, drawing and, as he says, having “conversations” with NPR. Writing Children’s Books (15:52) Next, Rachel visits with award-winning author and columnist, Ann Cannon, about her favorite form of writing – children’s books. She often bases them on real life – drawing on experiences with friends and family or on the lives of historical characters. Cannon is the author of a number of books for young r...

Role of Illustration (3:02) If you want to see the big picture of what it means to create books for children, you’ll want to consider the matter of … illustration. What is the role of illustration in a book or publication? Artist and author, Bethanne Anderson, talks to Rachel about this process and what an artist goes through – often creating multiple versions of an illustration – to enhance a story. Andersen teaches Illustration at BYU. She studied art at BYU’s Department of Visual Arts and at the Florence Academy of Art.  Encouraging Kids in Science (14:19) Next, Rachel visits with Rebecca Sansom Sansom is a BYU Chemistry Teaching Professor, who co-founded the BYU Chem Camp for elementary aged students. For elementary aged students. Chem Camp gives kids, both boys and girls, hands-on experiences in science. She also advocates exposing children to other places like this in the community.  Rebecca Samson has also served as an Albert Einstein Distinguished Educator Fellow at the Na...

Making Lifelong Readers (3:41) Experts say it’s vital that we allow children to choose what they want to read, but also to extend a wise and guiding hand. Young adult literature expert, Teri Lesesne, shares tips on how to guide our children to books that suit them. Obviously, her aim is to help them become independent, lifelong readers. Lesesne teaches classes in children's and young adult literature in the Department of Library Science at Sam Houston State University in Huntsville, Texas. She is author of professional books and numerous articles in her field and has served on the selection committees of the National Book Award, the Walden Award, and the Printz award. Teri Lesesne is also author of Reading Ladders. Expanding Your World (15:24) Next, Rachel welcomes Brad Wilcox, a professor in the Department of Teacher Education at BYU, who discusses how literacy – across a broad spectrum from books and movies to comics and even cereal boxes - can expand our children’s world – lite...

Transmedia Storytelling (3:39) We all know that books are just one way to tell a story. But, off the top of the head, how many other ways can you think of? Librarian and author, Amanda Hovious, talks to Rachel today about Transmedia Storytelling, which is telling a story across multiple media like film, web series, computer games, theme park rides, and more. Amanda Hovious is a librarian with a background in public and academic libraries and is also a writer, consultant, and library educator. She is author of the book Transmedia Storytelling: The Librarian’s Guide, and a blog. Cyrano (23:08) We finish the show with Sarai Clemente and Laura Johnson, BYU students studying Elementary Education and Spanish Dual Immersion, who review a picture book entitled, Cyrano by Taï-Marc Le Thanh and illustrated by Rébecca Dautremer. This book, written in Spanish, is based on the French classic Cyrano de Bejerac by Edmund Rostand. Sarai and Laura were a part of our host Rachel Wadham's Children's...

Journey to Becoming an Author (3:45) What prompts someone to write? Is it because of a desire to share something – like a story or an experience? Sometimes a simple desire to write eventually leads to becoming a published writer. This was the case with Young Adult book author, Jennifer Nielsen. In our program today, Nielsen talks to Rachel about her journey to becoming an author. It started with that simple, strong desire to tell stories. Jennifer Nielsen is a New York Times Bestselling author. Her books include The Ascendance trilogy – beginning with The False Prince; The Mark of a Thief series; and A Night Divided. Helping the Reluctant Reader (14:38) Next, Rachel talks to Literacy Learning Specialist, Marné Isakson, who offers tips to parents and teachers that will help struggling or reluctant readers succeed and enjoy their reading. Marné earned a bachelor’s in English from BYU, a master’s in Educational Psychology and Research form Bucknell University, a Ph.D. in Instructiona...

Disability Advocacy (3:17) The world is full of amazing children, with amazing talents and abilities. However, some of them have differences, and sometimes it is difficult for us as parents and caregivers to talk with our children about these kinds of differences. Today we are on the phone with Amy Webb, who is a mother of a child with a disability, and an advocate to help us as parents and other children the context of disabilities through her experiences.  Storytime (18:03) Libraries are known for their storytimes and we are too. Each week at around 15 minutes past the hour, tune in to hear book reviews or live readings of picture books or poetry. Today we have a reading of Lewis Carroll's "Alice in Wonderland" by Reed Wolfly.  Historical Fiction (23:20) Books can be an incredible tool for teaching children about the world around them. Even the simplest of stories can teach children about our history, and help them learn different virtues like compassion or resilience. Today ...

Engaging Kids with Literature (4:12) Many experts say that we should let children read what they want to read. It might not be what we want, but maybe that’s not the point. We could, and should, just celebrate that they’re reading at all. Now, there’s even better news, says literary expert, Nell K. Duke. We adults and teachers can help broaden horizons for our children, often by example. We can show them how their specific choices and preferences are not the only exciting worlds awaiting them. Nell K. Duke is a professor with expertise in literacy, language, and culture. She works in the combined program in education and psychology at the University of Michigan. Duke’s award-winning research focuses on early literacy development, particularly among children living in poverty. One of Duke’s most recent books is Beyond Bedtime Stories: A Parent’s Guide to Promoting Reading, Writing, and Other Literacy Skills from Birth to 5. Stand-Alone Books vs Series (15:20) Next, Rachel talks to ...

Character Building Books (4:11) Honesty … respect … tolerance … responsibility … dependability. Who wouldn’t want to instill these character traits in our children? Our first guest today, educator and author Mary Bigler, talks to Rachel about how we can do that. Her solution?  Surprise of all surprises – the answer might just include quality books, and, Mary will have a few recommendations. Once a pre-school teacher and now, a professor, she has spent her life promoting literacy and celebrating the joys of teaching. She is an award-winning professor in the Department of Teacher Education at Eastern Michigan University and, author of Lessons Learned.  Poetry and Children (16:28) Next, Rachel welcomes Terrell Young, a children’s literature expert at BYU, for a conversation about poetry and kids. Young believes children have a natural affinity for poetry because of their love of language, rhythm, and rhyme. He has served on numerous committees and is co-author of many books including...

Worlds Awaiting Christmas Program Monologue: Rachel Wadham, “Christmas” Christmas Poetry Readings:   Bruce Seely – “The Waits” by M. Nightingale from 50 Christmas Poems for Children Collection, (1923) Florence B. Hyett, Editor Steven Kapp Perry – “In the Bleak Mid-Winter” by Christina Rossetti accompanied by the music of Gustav Holst. Salt Lake Children’s Choir, conducted by Ralph B. Woodward - “Wexford Carol” a traditional Irish tune. Christmas Story:  Sam Payne – An original, true story told by a master of storytelling and host of The Apple Seed on BYU Radio.  Salt Lake Children’s Choir, conducted by Ralph B. Woodruff - “What Child Is This?” by William Chatterton Dix set to the tune of “Greensleeves.”  Favorite Christmas Books: Joella Peterson, Children’s Librarian, Provo City Library. The Day Santa Stopped Believing in Harold by Maureen Fergus  Stowaway in a Sleigh by Roger Mader The Lost Gift: A Christmas Story by Kallie George Mr. Willowby’s Christmas by Robert Ba...

Best Books to Give to Kids (4:10) Looking for good books for kids this holiday season? Our guest, award-winning author Kate DiCamillo, has some great suggestions! She talks to Rachel about ideal books for a preschooler, middle schooler, or young adult. Kate DiCamillo is a #1 New York Times bestselling author and two-time winner of the Newbery Award. Titles such as Because of Winn-Dixie and The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane have resonated with readers of all ages around the world. Her latest book, Raymie Nightingale, is a National Book Award Finalist. Illustrator-Author (13:41) Next, on Worlds Awaiting, Rachel welcomes illustrator-author Julie Olson. One of Olson’s favorite activities is visiting with her readers when she visits local schools. She has illustrated many books, including Discover America: From Sea to Shining Sea (with a great interactive website!), Dear Cinderella by Marianne Moore and Mary Jane Kensington, and Little Penguin: The Emperor of Antarctica by Jonath...

The Power of Music (4:06) In modern times, music can be heard everywhere. It swirls around us – in the grocery store or the elevator and engulfs us at the movies and on TV. Music is so present in our lives that we’ve learned to tune it out. Do we ever stop and listen to it, allowing ourselves to experience the feelings it brings? Our guest today, music educator, Jennifer Purdy, talks to Rachel about such questions, with particular attention to the importance of music in the lives of our children. Purdy has been a music educator for over 30 years and believes she’s got the happiest job in the world. She has worked at Highland Park Elementary in Salt Lake City, Utah and also works with the BYU ARTS Partnership program. For nearly a decade Jennifer Purdy has also been a composer-consultant for Utah Opera Company and writes original operas with elementary school children. The Importance of Technology (13:30) Next, on Worlds Awaiting, Rachel welcomes literacy expert, Jennifer Wimmer. T...

Reading Independence (3:59) No one likes to kill time. What do you do with those empty intervals when you’re waiting for the doctor or the dentist, or when you’re parked at the curb waiting for your child at school? Do you play on your Smart Phone? Stare at the wall? Practice Zen? What about using some of those spare minutes to read? Our guest today, reading specialist, Donalyn Miller, suggests that we anticipate such moments by toting a book wherever we go. Miller discusses with Rachel how to instill this good habit in our children, to help them become life-long readers. Donalyn Miller taught in elementary and middle schools in Northeast Texas, and was a finalist for the 2010 Texas Teacher of the Year. She’s the author of The Book Whisperer and Reading in the Wild, which explore independent reading best practices and practical strategies for engaging students with reading. Donalyn’s articles about teaching and reading have appeared in publications such as Education Week Teacher, T...

An Illustrator’s Journey (3:47) Children often wonder what they want to be when they grow up. Actually, you may even be asking that question right now! Our guest today, popular illustrator-author Bob Shea, talks to Rachel about his journey to his present profession. It all started with drawing and writing in childhood and continued later with his work as a graphic designer. Ultimately he discovered the world of illustrating and writing picture books. Bob Shea has written and illustrated over a dozen picture books including the popular Dinosaur vs. Bedtime and the cult favorite Big Plans illustrated by Lane Smith. His characters and animations have appeared on Nick Jr, Playhouse Disney, and PBS Kids. Bob spends his days writing, drawing and having “conversations” with NPR. Acknowledging the Positive (14:34) Our next guest on Worlds Awaiting is Lynnette Christensen, professor in the BYU School of Education. Her area of expertise is Positive Behavior Support. The premise of Positive ...

Anticipating the Story (3:24) A writer’s inspiration can take many forms – a novel, a picture book, a short story. Writer Tim Wynne-Jones has written in all of these genres, and then some! Tim talks to Rachel today about his creative process and how he enjoys the anticipation of discovering the direction a story will take. He is an award-winning author of thirty-four books including novels, picture books, and short story anthologies. His most recent novel for young adults is The Emperor of Any Place. And, his newest picture book is Secret Agent Man Goes Shopping for Shoes. Love of Sports through Reading (13:50) Next, Cole Wissinger of the Worlds Awaiting team visits with Spencer Linton, sportscaster and co-host of BYU Sports Nation on BYU-TV and Radio. They talk about Spencer’s passion for sports and what he enjoyed reading as a child, from sports stats on player cards to The Berenstain Bears. Linton has worked as a sportscaster at iProvo Cable in Provo, Utah; KJCT News 8 in Grand...

Mental Illness (3:52) Statistics say that 1 in 4 people have mental illness. And 1 in 25 suffer so badly from it that it disrupts their professional and personal life. Many suffer in silence. They’re afraid or ashamed to tell others, for fear of the stigma. Rachel visits with young adult novelist, Robison Wells, about his journey through mental illness, and, the passion he has for speaking out on the subject, especially in his books, articles, and social media. Robison Wells is the award-winning author of Blackout, Variant, Airships of Camelot and others. Robison lives in the Rocky Mountains in a house not too far from elk pastures. His wife, Erin, he says, is a better person than he will ever be, and their three kids cause mischief and/or joy. Wells suffers from five mental illnesses, as you will hear him explain, and is an outspoken advocate for others like him. Leadership Skills (15:01) Next, Rachel visits with Angela Nederhand, a teacher at Salem Hills High School. She talks t...

YA Literature (3:50) Of all the worlds awaiting our youth, dangerous worlds can pack the biggest wallop. Dangerous settings in fiction abound, because they make compelling stories. But just how dangerous should they be? BYU English professor, Jon Ostenson, talks to Rachel today on Worlds Awaiting about the popularity of fictional worlds of peril, dystopia, and apocalypse. Jon specializes in literature for teens and young adults. Having taught Junior High and High School English, he presently teaches courses in adolescent literature and publishes on the topic. The Dolly Gray Award (14:04) Next, Rachel visits with Tina Dyches, professor in the BYU School of Education, and founder and current chair of the Dolly Gray Children’s Literature Award. She talks to Rachel about creating this award that began with her desire to encourage better fictional depictions of young characters with disabilities. Dr. Tina Taylor Dyches has worked in the field of education for 30 years, as a special edu...

Alice in Wonderland (4:03) Alice in Wonderland may have been published in the 1800s, but it’s still a relevant classic for teens now. From the mad hatter tea party to the red queen screaming “off with your head”, these moments continue to show up in new retellings and reimaginings. We have L.L. McKinney on the phone today to talk about her Alice adaptation, “A Blade So Black.” Storytime (16:36) Libraries are known for their storytimes and we are too. Each week at around 15 minutes past the hour, tune in to hear book reviews or live readings of picture books or poetry. Today we have a reading of the poem, "The Dance" by R.C. Lehmann. Literary Practices (18:54) Not every child loves to read automatically. There are many things we do, as librarians, educators, and parents, to encourage our children to read. However some of these common practices appear to go against conventional wisdom and may do more harm than good. Rachel has Nell Duke, writer and researcher on the topic, on the...

Hearing Poems (3:24) A child’s first experience with poetry is almost never with the eyes. Children hear poems before they ever see them. Gina Clark, a poet and teacher, believes poetry was meant to be heard – not read. Today, Clark visits with Rachel on Worlds Awaiting, about the plusses of reading aloud to our children. It helps them as they’re beginning to read, speak, and explore language. Gina will also reads some of her own poems in the course of the interview.    Gina Clark is a Utah native and mother of six children - ages 5 to 15. She completed a Master of Fine Arts degree in poetry at Arizona State University and has taught as an adjunct at Brigham Young University and Utah Valley University. She’s currently a writing instructor with BYU's Independent Study. It should go without saying that Gina is an avid supporter of her local public library (Orem, Utah), where she’s been a volunteer storyteller for over a decade. Her monthly Storytime presentations might better be cal...

Removing Walls (3:41) Good literature helps us overcome barriers, leap over boundaries, and experience immense freedom of imagination. Author Gene Luen Yang is a strong advocate of removing walls or obstacles to learning, particularly for children. Gene Luen Yang, a graphic novelist, is our guest today on Worlds Awaiting with Rachel Wadham. He is the creator of American Born Chinese, the first graphic novel to win the Printz Award, which is the American Library Association’s annual honor for best Young Adult book. It also won an Eisner Award \[WEB LINK: http://comic-con.org/awards/eisner-awards-current-info ] for Best Graphic Album. At present, Gene is the 2016 Library of Congress National Ambassador for Young People’s Literature. Yang has also produced a number of comic books based on Nickelodeon’s popular series, Avatar: The Last Airbender, and DC Comics’ Superman! Currently, he is working on The Secret Coders which draws on his experience as a computer science teacher. One Pictu...

Girls in Science (3:04) If you’re the kind of person who cares about children, learning, and literacy, you’ll have concern for the following: Research shows that interest in science and math typically drops off beginning in 4th grade. What’s up with that? Rachel Wadham welcomes BYU Chemistry Professor, Rebecca Sansom to this episode of Worlds Awaiting. Sansom has a particular interest in women in science who have made an impact in the world. Rebecca is co-founder of BYU’s Chem Camp for elementary aged students. She also has served for a year as an Albert Einstein Distinguished Educator Fellow at the National Science Foundation in Arlington, Virginia, following eight years as a high school science teacher in Massachusetts and Utah. Sansom has masters degrees in chemistry and education from Harvard University and Southern Utah University and is pursuing her doctorate in Educational Inquiry, Measurement, and Evaluation. Live Theatre (14:48) Next, Teresa Love joins Rachel on Worlds Aw...

Book Inspiration (3:44) For the most part, people stick to what they know …. and that includes authors! Young Adult novelist Patrice Kindl talks to Rachel Wadham today on Worlds Awaiting about how her writing is influenced by what she knows and loves. Kindl is frequently inspired by people she knows and life around her. And, you’re certain to discover in the course of the conversation, an author who immerses herself deeply in the water of life – from humor to people to pets, and, of course, the drama of great fiction. Kindl is author of a number of award-winning novels including Goose Chase, Keeping the Castle, A School for Brides, and her most recent Don't You Trust Me? Patrice Kindl has shared her home in upstate New York with monkeys, parrots, cats, dogs, reptiles and small mammals, as well as the occasional bird of prey, and, one son and a very indulgent husband. Book Review: The Night Gardener (23:25) Next, Gene Nelson, director of the Provo, Utah Library, reviews a picture b...

Literacy Opens Doors (3:31) Of all the subsets of society, children are the most vulnerable. Children need the most help. We start with their basic needs: food, clothing, shelter, and medicine. Soon after these priorities, we start addressing other vital needs, such as supportive relationships in their families and friendships. But a child’s life can still be severely impoverished without the gifts of education and literacy. How do we impart these? How can we do better?  Brad Wilcox, is a professor in the Department of Teacher Education at Brigham Young University. He’s lived in Utah, Ethiopia, and Chile, serving as an advocate for children and learning wherever he has gone. Brad Wilcox is Rachel Wadham’s guest in this segment of Worlds Awaiting.  Author Jennifer Nielsen (15:12) Next, author of teen novels, Jennifer Nielsen, talks with Rachel about the joy she has experienced interacting with her fans and the satisfaction of helping them to want to read. She believes in the great ...

Building Family Rituals (3:26) Rituals and routines are important in family life. How do we build these rituals – these daily anchors that can tie us together?  Answers might well include discussions at mealtimes, consuming media together, and, of course, bed time stories. Today, Rachel talks to Julie Nelson, who teaches Children’s Literature and Applied Parenting at Utah Valley University, about what we can do to foster these rituals and a culture of literacy in our families. Nelson is the author of two books: Parenting with Spiritual Power and Keep It Real and Grab a Plunger: 25 tips for surviving parenthood. She has a dual degree in Early Childhood and Elementary Education and a master's degree in Marriage, Family, and Human Development. Julie Nelson has been featured in media such as The Wall Street Journal, Parents.com, and The Matt Townsend Show on BYU Radio. Math and Literature (14:08) Next, Dr. Eula Monroe, a long-time professor of Mathematics Education at BYU, talks about...

Women in Literature (3:36) Don’t think Hillary Clinton is history’s first woman to wield considerable power. We could mention Cleopatra or Elizabeth the First, or Catherine the Great, as examples of women who exercised tremendous sway. But, the list is much, much longer than just that. What do you know about Boadicea, Zerobia of Palmyra or the Biblical Esther? Or, great women of more recent history, such as Liliuokalani, Golda Meir or Indira Gandhi. Today, we meet artist Bethanne Anderson, who has illustrated a number of books. She talks to Rachel about one of the main themes in her books – strong, powerful women – and what sparked this passion for her. Bethanne Andersen teaches Illustration at BYU. She studied art at BYU’s Department of Visual Arts and at the Florence Academy of Art. Physical Activity Reducing Stress (14:52) Next, does exercise make for better learners? – Enhancing our children’s learning at school; lowering our own stress level; establishing healthy life habits?...

Helping Children Appreciate Music (3:22) The world of literacy meets the world of music, today on Worlds Awaiting. How do we help children learn about music and appreciate it? Today Rachel visits with music educator, Jennifer Purdy.   Naturally, the child’s home environment is going to be crucial. And it’s not just about formal music lessons either. Jennifer Purdy has been a music educator for over 30 years and believes she’s got the happiest job in the world. She currently teaches music at Highland Park Elementary in Salt Lake City, Utah and also works with the BYU ARTS Partnership program. For nearly a decade Jennifer Purdy has also been a composer-consultant for Utah Opera Company and writes original operas with elementary school children.  Bibliotherapy (14:50) Next, if you’re already a big-time reader, you’ve probably already experienced it. But, quite possibly, you never knew it had a name. It’s called Bibliotherapy. Rachel talks to Associate professor, Melissa Heath and Gr...

The Amazing World of Non-fiction (3:10) Non-fiction – kids today can find an endless supply of it. But, sometimes, non-fiction gets a bad rap because of negative encounters with it in childhood. Today, Rachel visits with Terrell Young, a children’s literature expert at BYU, about the amazing world of non-fiction and all the fascinating opportunities that are out there. Terrell has served on numerous committees and is co-author of many books including Children’s Literature, Briefly; and, Creating Lifelong Readers Through Independent Reading. Language Assessment and Intervention (13:46) Next, Rachel visits with Martin Fujiki and Bonnie Brinton, professors in the BYU Department of Communication Disorders, who discuss language impairment, how to spot it in your child, and, where to go to find help. Dr. Martin Fujiki and Dr. Bonnie Brinton are both experienced speech pathologists and researchers in that field. Writing Advice from Real Authors (24:36) We finish up the show today with t...

Aunts and Literacy (2:52) What role do aunts and uncles and extended family play in developing literacy in children? Our first guest on “Worlds Awaiting,” Lynette Christensen, professor in the BYU School of Education, says they have a big role. She cites her own experiences as an aunt, as well as important research on the topic. Lynnette Christensen works with the BYU Positive Behavior Support Initiative and has been actively involved in the implementation and research of this program in the public schools. Helping Children Become Critical Readers (14:57) Next, Rachel visits with elementary school teacher, Ed Spicer, about helping children become critical readers – critical about what they’re reading and why they’re reading. As a teacher, Mr. Spicer spends most of his time with his own first grade students, but also loves building young high school authors through the Tiger Tales literary contest (which he has coordinated and judged for 15 years). Visit Ed’s Teen Book Review, call...

LitWorld (3:35) Children from all around the world have a story to tell. It may be a story that they’ve created or a story they’ve lived. But not everyone has ample access to literature, or even the education to learn how to read or write. Rachel is on the phone today with Pam Allyn, the founder of LitWorld, an organization investing in children’s literacy around the world. Storytime (17:31) Libraries are known for their storytimes and we are too. Each week at around 15 minutes past the hour, tune in to hear book reviews or live readings of picture books or poetry. Today we have a book review of "Thelma the Unicorn" by Aaron Blabey.  Illustrations (21:30) A tv audience can tell if a character is sad, mad, or happy without any words being spoken because of the visual format. The same can be said for picture books. So much story is conveyed through just the illustrations. It makes one wonder what type of processes an illustrator goes through to get that end result. That’s why we ...

Tracking Traditions (3:18) Did you realize you are fostering traditions every day? According to folklorists, we fashion traditions with our words, hands, actions, and, beliefs. A classic example of where this happens might be around the holidays or even just our daily experiences. Professional folklorist, Jill Rudy, visits with Rachel Wadham on “Worlds Awaiting,” about our remarkable capacity as humans to establish and preserve what folklorists call “texts”—what you and I normally call traditions. Professor Rudy, of the BYU English Department, researches the history of American folklore scholarship, folk narratives, fairy tales in the media, family folklore, and foodways. Janet Wong on Discovering the Joy of Poetry (13:48) Next, Rachel visits with poet Janet Wong, co-compiler of “The Poetry Friday Anthology.” She shares how she discovered the true joys of poetry somewhat later in her career, when she heard the work of a poet read in a children’s literature class. Janet Wong, who s...

Transmedia Storytelling (4:03) We all know that books are just one way to tell a story. But, off the top of our head, how many other ways can you think of? Librarian and author, Amanda Hovious, talks to Rachel today about Transmedia Storytelling, which is telling a story across multiple media like film, web series, computer games, theme park rides, and more. All these mediums help expand the story. And, it’s also a way to participate in the story – with others. Amanda Hovious is a librarian with a background in public and academic libraries and is also a writer, consultant, and library educator. She is author of the book Transmedia Storytelling: The Librarian’s Guide and also a blog. Pokemon Go (23:28) Next, Cole Wissinger, a member of our Worlds Awaiting team, interviews families, teenagers, college students, and others at the Provo Library about their thoughts on the new phenomenon, Pokemon Go.

The Benefits of Writing a Letter (3:21) “Who actually still writes letters? You know – ink on paper. I mean, why would you do that? Today on Worlds Awaiting we’ll explore how old-fashioned letter-writing isn’t something we should give up on. Rachel talks to Kathryn Pole, professor at the University of Texas, Arlington, about a study she conducted with her kindergarten students where she tracked their progress as they wrote and exchanged letters with extended family members. During the study Kathryn observed that her students’ writing and reading abilities improved and family bonds were strengthened. Kathryn Pole is a researcher and teacher-educator for her institution’s Literacy Studies Program. Here’s Kathryn and Rachel.” "Salt of the Sea" (22:14) Next, Gene Nelson, director of the Provo, Utah Library reviews a book for teens called, “Salt to the Sea” by Ruta Sepetys, a story of 3 young people during World War II whose paths cross en route to a ship, the Wilhelm Gustloff . Gene N...

Welcome to a Worlds Awaiting, WEB EXCLUSIVE. Rachel Wadham talks to educator and author, Mary Bigler, about how adults can keep their kids reading during the summer months to avoid losing ground (sometimes called - “the summer slide.”) Research says that when kids leave the classroom for several months in the summer, they can lose 1-3 months of learning. Mary suggests that when they read 6 books during the summer this will help them to retain what they have learned during the school year. Read 12 books, she says, and you not only maintain their learning, but gain ground. She also shares the “ABC’s of Summer Reading”: A. Access to Summer Reading, B. Books that Match Their Interests and Reading Level, C. Comprehension – Make sure children are comprehending what they are reading. A word from Rachel’s World:  “Summer Reading”  By Rachel Wadham, Host of Worlds Awaiting There are lots of things that go with summer -- beaches, ice cream, parades, and even fireworks.  But one thing tha...

Leslie Helakoski (3:17) How do grownups help kids be creative? Today on Worlds Awaiting Rachel visits with children’s book author and illustrator, Leslie Helakoski, who remembers the encouragement she received from her grandmother and parents that allowed her to pursue her interest in art. Leslie’s style of illustration and storytelling often uses animals. We’ll learn how she uses animals to portray human emotions, providing a safe distance that helps the child explore real and important feelings. Helakoski is the author and sometimes illustrator of ten picture books including Woolbur, Big Chickens, and Big Pigs. Her books and illustrations have garnered a number of awards. Two new books are in the works and will be released in 2017. Guys Can Read to Kids, Too (14:50) Next, Rachel talks to library administrator and author, Tim Wadham, about how guys (fathers, grandfathers, uncles, and others) can read to kids, too! He shares his experience of reading aloud to his younger sisters, ...

From Animals to Fairy Tales (3:25) Where does creative inspiration come from? Today on “Worlds Awaiting” children’s book author, Marilyn Singer, talks with Rachel about her inspiration when creating a book. Singer is known also for touching a variety of subjects – from animals to schools to aliens! She’s also invented a thing-a-ma-jig that she calls a “reverso” poem – and we’ll be learning about that. Singer is the winner of the 2015 National Council of Teachers of English Award for Excellence in Poetry. She has over 100 books to her credit. She’s also the creator of five picture books featuring Tallulah, a young ballet student. Making Arts a Part of Your Family (14:55) Next, Rachel talks to art educators, Scott and Cally Flox. Scott teaches 3rd Grade at Canyon Rim Academy in Salt Lake City, Utah, where he incorporates the arts in his classroom. Cally is choreographer turned administrator. She’s the Founding Director of the BYU ARTS Partnership in the McKay School of Education at ...

How Important Are Stories? (3:11) “How important are stories? Especially stories from your experience with family and friends? We share them all the time – We can hardly stop ourselves. Julie Rose, host of BYU Radio’s “Top of Mind,” talks with Rachel about writing and sharing stories from family life for her nieces and nephews that lived far away. Julie is a winner of multiple Edward R. Murrow Awards, and is a seasoned broadcast journalist and interviewer. Prior to joining BYU Radio, she worked as a reporter and produced spots and feature news stories for NPR's Morning Edition and All Thing Considered. The Joy of Puppetry (15:37) Rachel talks to Mark H. Pulham, puppeteer and storyteller, who tells how he got started with using puppets in his work with children. Pulham also talks about a book he co-authored, “Dressing the Naked Hand: The World’s Greatest Guide to Making, Staging, and Performing with Puppets.” Mark is a librarian and puppeteer at the Orem, Utah Public Library . He u...

What Makes a Book Great? (3:18) We pose the question "What makes a book great?" to Jon Ostenson, an English professor at BYU. What if the answer isn’t merely a matter of personal tastes? Ostenson specializes in literature for teens and young adults. He suggests that we make the effort as adults to read a little more widely so we can better understand what our teens are reading. Having taught Junior High and High School English in Utah, he presently teaches courses in adolescent literature and publishes on the topic. One-Thousand Books Before Kindergarten (14:57) Rachel talks to Lynda Palma of the BYU Museum of Art where she is an Art Educator. Our topic is the importance of art in a child’s life and how it can help them broaden their horizons. Palma has enjoyed a long and rewarding career in museum studies, beginning as a registrar of the BYU art collection, then as the collections manager and, now, as an educator at the BYU Museum of Art. Lynda also spent several years teaching i...

Graphic Novelist Gene Luen Yang (3:15) What is a graphic novel? It’s a form that is becoming popular these days. Today on “Worlds Awaiting,” Gene Luen Yang, a Graphic Novelist, introduces us to this medium and shares his experiences of creating two award-winning novels. Gene visits with Rachel about his journey from reading comic books as a youth, to his current vocation as a cartoonist and graphic novelist. He is the creator of American Born Chinese, the first graphic novel to win the Printz Award, which is the American Library Association’s annual honor for best young adult book. At present, Gene Luen Yang is the 2016 Library of Congress National Ambassador for Young People’s Literature. Combatting Bullying (14:37) Books and bullying might be seen as an odd word pair. But anyone who remembers encountering a bully in school or in childhood knows from personal experience that a safe environment facilitates better learning. Associate professor, Melissa Heath and Graduate Student,...

Helping Children Find Enjoyment in Reading (3:24) “Do you have a child who resists reading? The situation is pretty common – in fact, often normal. Rachel talks to educator and author, Mary Bigler, about things you can do to get reluctant young readers interested. Bigler suggests using joke and riddle books, tongue twisters, poetry, or short books. Read what the child wants and loves, she says – no matter how many times they want it read to them. Once a pre-school teacher and now, a professor, Mary Bigler has spent her life promoting literacy and celebrating the joys of teaching.  She is an award-winning professor in the Department of Teacher Education at Eastern Michigan University and, author of “Lessons Learned.”   Two Contrasting Views on One Book (17:43) Have you ever had the experience where you’ve read a book and loved it, but, your friend reads it and hates it? Rachel talks to Whitney Troxel and Aylea Stephens, editors of the "Children’s Book and Media Review” at the BYU...

Biographies (3:41) Historical figures can be looked up to, despised, or forgotten. And no matter how much we’d like to, we can’t sit down and pepper them with questions. That’s where biographies come into play. Deep and thoughtful research by authors can help readers get those answers. Rachel has Candace Fleming on the phone today to talk about her biographies. Storytime (17:24) Libraries are known for their storytimes and we are too. Each week at around 15 minutes past the hour, tune in to hear book reviews or live readings of picture books or poetry. Today we have a book review of "Gaston" by Kelly DiPucchio. Less Known Literature (20:34) Many parents are constantly on the lookout for new books to introduce to their children. While there are many wonderful books available today, there are some amazingly unique and fantastical books that have dropped off the face of the literate world for one reason or another. We’re in studio today with Jamie Horrocks, an English professor he...

A Writer’s Creative Process (3:15) What creative process does an author go through in writing a story? Do they write about something they know or on a specific topic? Rachel talks to middle grade author Matthew J. Kirby about how he sets his stories in a variety of times and places based on what piques his interest at the moment. For me, he says, I don’t write about what I know (the old axiom), but about what I don’t know and what I’m curious about. Kirby is an award-winning author of novels including The Clockwork Three, Icefall, the Dark Gravity Sequence series, and most recently, A Taste for Monsters. When he’s not writing books, Matt is also a school psychologist The Joy of Poetry (15:27) Next, Rachel visits with poet Janet Wong, co-compiler of The Poetry Friday Anthology. She shares how she got her start in poetry – not really liking it as a kid, then, later, as an adult, discovering its joys. She is now an award-winning children’s book author. Janet Wong is a former lawyer w...

Telling Stories to Your Child (2:59) When you tuck your child in at night – do you read to them or make-up your own stories? Rachel talks to librarian, Mark H. Pulham about the importance of reading or telling stories to children. Don’t worry about making it a theatrical production. Just be you. The most important thing, he says, is that you’re spending time with them. Mark is a librarian and puppeteer at the Orem, Utah Public Library. He uses these talents, along with storytelling and acting, every year at the Timpanogos Storytelling Festival in Orem, Utah. Mark Pulham is also co-author of Dressing the Naked Hand: The World’s Greatest Guide to Making, Staging, and Performing with Puppets. Author: Martine Leavitt (14:28) Next, Rachel visits with author Martine Leavitt about her journey to becoming a writer, and how she develops her stories and characters. Martine is an award-winning author of books for young adults, with her most recent book being Calvin. Other titles include: My ...

Books for Early Grade Kids (2:46) Ed Spicer, elementary school teacher and book reviewer talks about what kinds of books are best-suited for First and Second Grade kids. Is fiction better? Or non-fiction? Graphic Novels? Picture Books? Any others? He and Rachel discuss how a child can benefit from all these genres. As a teacher, Spicer spends most of his time with his own first grade students, but also loves building young high school authors through the Tiger Tales literary contest (which he has coordinated and judged for 15 years). Visit Ed’s Teen Book Review, called “Spicey Reads." Ed Spicer has also served on the Caldecott, Printz, and various other award committees of the American Library Association. Two of Mr. Spicer’s students: First, Brycen (video) talks about why he likes “Snowman Magic” by Katherine Tegen. Incidentally, Brycen wasn’t interested in reading until he discovered “Snowman Magic.” Now, he checks it out all the time!  Another of Ed’s students (video) gives a ...