Podcast
Book Club for Kids
The place where young readers meet to talk about books. The show includes a celebrity reader and an interview with the author. The host is award winning public radio journalist Kitty Felde. Book Club won the California Library Association Technology Award and the DC Mayor's Award for Excellence in the Humanitites. Named one of the top 10 podcasts for kids by THE TIMES of London.
Episodes
Red Queen by Victoria Aveyard
Jan 20 2021
It’s Victoria Aveyard’s Red Queen. And it was the choice of a group of 7th graders from Newport Middle School in Maryland. Writer Victoria Aveyard talks about the difference between writing books and writing screenplays. Our celebrity reader, NPR’s Renee Montagne, brings to life our lightning girl Mare who is decidedly not excited about becoming a princess. Kitty Felde is host. www.bookclubforkids.org
A Conversation with writer Varsha Bajaj
Jan 13 2021
Writer Varsha Bajaj talks to Kitty Felde about the connection between therapy and writing and the importance of having another set of eyes on a developing manuscript. www.bookclubforkids.org
Episode 115 - Count Me In by Varsha Bajaj
Jan 06 2021
“Count Me In” by Varsha Bajaj looks at the power of social media to combat hate. The story involves a hate crime: an attack on an Indian American family and how that changes a shy girl named Karina and the boy next door who used to hang out with what the grandfather called a pack of hyenas. Our readers are 5th graders from PS 174 in Queens, New York and they interview our author. Our celebrity reader is public radio journalist Deepa Fernandes. Kitty Felde is host. www.bookclubforkids.org
Favorite Books from 2020
Dec 30 2020
As we look forward to a better 2021, we look back at the great book suggestions made by the kids who appeared on Book Club for Kids last year. This episode full of terrific titles that so reflect this past year, whether it’s the social justice issues of Black Lives Matter or a need to escape the realities of covid. It’s our end of the year gift to you faithful Book Club for Kids listeners. Thank you. www.bookclubforkids.org
Bonus Christmas 2020
Dec 23 2020
In a year when we can't gather together to celebrate the holidays, we offer a special bonus episode: a tale of Christmas in Washington from our other podcast The Fina Mendoza Mysteries.
Moo by Sharon Creech
Dec 16 2020
These chilly December nights remind us of Maine, which is the location of this week's reprise episode "Moo" by Sharon Creech. Readers from Tyler Elementary School in Washington, DC recount their tales of cows they've met and we meet a cow expert, dairy farmer and Congressman David Valadao of California. Kitty Felde is host.
A Conversation with Edward Bloor
Dec 09 2020
Writer Edward Bloor talks about the biggest lesson he learned about writing and how to handle criticism with host Kitty Felde.
Episode 114 - Tangerine by Edward Bloor
Dec 02 2020
A story about family divisions, economic divides, history, and growing citrus trees. It’s “Tangerine” by Edward Bloor. Our readers from the Laurence School in Los Angeles discuss the novel and interview our writer. Actress Jovita Molina is celebrity reader. Kitty Felde is host. www.bookclubforkids.org
A Conversation with Holly Goldberg Sloan
Nov 25 2020
Writer Holly Goldberg Sloan talks about story construction, the difference between film and fiction, and describes her very unconventional childhood with host Kitty Felde. More author interviews at www.bookclubforkids.org.
Counting by 7's by Holly Goldberg Sloan
Nov 18 2020
What is a family? Willow Chance loves her adoptive parents. After they're killed in an accident, she helps create a new, very unusual family. Eighth graders from Roanoke Catholic School in Virginia discuss Holly Goldberg Sloan's New York Times best-selling novel "Counting By 7's" with host Kitty Felde. Actress Jo Mei reads from the book. Holly shares a secret about the book that she only shares when she makes classroom visits. www.bookclubforkids.org
Barbara OConnor on Teaching Kids to Write
Nov 11 2020
Writer Barbara O'Connor, author of last week's episode "Wish," talks to Kitty Felde about her technique of teaching writing to kids. She also talks about her own writing journey and why 4th graders are her ideal audience. More interviews with writers of childrens books at our website www.bookclubforkids.org/writers-on-writing.
Episode 113 - Wish by Barbara OConnor
Nov 04 2020
Do you wish upon a star? Or just when you’re blowing out birthday candles? Our book is full of ideas about how to make wishes. In fact, that’s the title of the book: “Wish” by Barbara O’Connor. Actress and playwright Dianna Burbano is celebrity reader. Our readers are from Multnomah Elementary School in Los Angeles. Kitty Felde is host. Free reading tips at the website BookClubforKids.org.
James Nicol on Writing
Oct 30 2020
James Nicol is the author of "The Apprentice Witch" which we discussed on the show. Now, he shares his thoughts on getting up the courage to share your work with the rest of the world. www.bookclubforkids.org
Bonus Episode - Favorite Books from Iowa and Sweden
Oct 28 2020
We get some great book suggestions from Sweden and from the Ottumwa Public Library's Middle School Book Club. You can be on the show, too! Check out our website www.bookclubforkids.org.
The Apprentice Witch by James Nicol
Oct 21 2020
Think becoming a witch is easy? Think again. Readers from Changing Hands bookstore in Phoenix discuss James Nicol's tale of becoming a professional witch called "The Apprentice Witch." Our celebrity reader is public radio journalist (and amateur ice hockey player) Susan Valot. Our writer talks about how he created the rules for his magical world and confesses that he wasn't much of a reader when he was young. Kitty Felde is host. www.bookclubforkids.org
Angela Dominguez Talks About Writing and Illustrating Books for Children
Oct 14 2020
Angela Dominguez writes and illustrates the Stella Diaz series. She talks to us about her writing path from drawing to writing. More author interviews at our website.
Episode 112 - Stella Diaz Has Something to Say by Angela Dominguez
Oct 07 2020
Are you a little shy? Is it hard to speak up in class or introduce yourself to strangers? That pretty much describes our main character in this episode’s book “Stella Diaz Has Something to Say” by Angela Dominguez. Readers at Canoga Park Elementary School talk about bullies, learning a new language, and speaking up. Actress Alejandra Ramos is celebrity reader. Kitty Felde is host. Find out how you can be on the show at: www.bookclubforkids.org
A Preview of "Let Kids Vote!"
Sep 30 2020
Looking for a way to talk about the upcoming election without getting into the ugliness of politics? Our other podcast THE FINA MENDOZA MYSTERIES has a special two-part election episode coming out next week. It's designed to inspire the next generation of voters to become civicly engaged NOW. The episode features a real-life congressman - Mark Takano (D-CA) - who takes questions from our fictional characters. Here's a preview. Subscribe now to THE FINA MENDOZA MYSTERIES.
The Worst Class Trip Ever by Dave Barry
Sep 23 2020
Did your class field trip to DC get cancelled? No worries, we'll take you on "The Worst Class Trip Ever" with writer Dave Barry. Kids from Washington debunk the stereotypes folks outside the beltway have about their hometown. Congressman Jeff Denham of California is celebrity reader. Dave Barry talks about why he's funny. Kitty Felde is host. Find out how you can be on the show: bookclubforkids.org
Favorite Books from England and Ireland
Sep 16 2020
Running out of book suggestions? We ask kids in England and Ireland to share their favorite book titles. We also tell you how you can be on the show. Kitty Felde is host. bookclubforkids.org
The Struggle: Mom and the Summertime Blues
Sep 09 2020
How did you spend your summer? Did you write a book? That's what the Smith girls did. This week, we discuss "The Struggle: Mom and the Summertime Blues" by Patrice, Donna, Shannon, Charity, and Faith Smith. Our readers are budding writers themselves from the Girlfriends Book Club Baltimore and our celebrity reader is actress Makeda Declet. Kitty Felde is host. www.bookclubforkids.org
Bonus Episode Virtual Book Clubs with School Librarians United
Sep 02 2020
This is an episode for teachers, librarians and parents. Book Club for Kids host Kitty Felde was invited to share some tips about starting your own virtual book club by the School Librarians United podcast. We thought it could give you some ideas about starting your own virtual book club. Amy Hermon of School Librarians United thanks composer Nazar Rybak at Hooksounds.com for the music you’ve heard today.  https://www.facebook.com/SchoolLibrariansUnited/ bookclubforkids.org Twitter: @BookClubfo...more
Crenshaw by Katherine Applegate
Aug 26 2020
We are always thrilled when a middle grade novel is turned into a movie and this month, Katherine Applegate’s tale of a very special gorilla THE ONE AND ONLY IVAN began airing on Disney Plus. We love Katherine Applegate. In fact, we talked to her a couple of years ago about another of her books about another wonderful animal: an invisible cat. So here’s to you, Katherine Applegate: we reprise our episode of Crenshaw. The book is the story of a family on the verge of becoming homeless. Our studen...more
Bonus Favorite Books from England
Aug 19 2020
Overseas travel may be impossible this summer...at least in person. But we take a virtual trip to Great Britain to find out what kids in England are reading. Kitty Felde is host.
Episode 110 - The Poet X by Elizabeth Acevedo
Aug 12 2020
It’s all about poetry and body image and standing up for yourself. It’s the National Book Award winning novel "The Poet X" by Elizabeth Acevedo. Readers from Charles Hart Middle School in Washington, DC talk about the book with host Kitty Felde. Actress Monica Vigil from THE FINA MENDOZA MYSTERIES podcast is celebrity reader. Writer Elizabeth Acevedo talks about why she writes. www.bookclubforkids.org
Bonus SciFi Reading Suggestions
Aug 05 2020
Looking for a great last book of summer? We've got lots of suggestions from Southern Californians who attended the Los Angeles Public Library's Maker Faire. And we have a special invitation to teachers and librarians looking for an opportunity to engage their students in reading this fall. Listen to the end of the episode for details. bookclubforkids.org Â
The Watsons Go to Birmingham 1963
Jul 29 2020
In this week, as the country lays to rest Congressman John Lewis, one of the heroes of the Civil Rights movement, we thought it was a good time to revisit one of the darkest days of the struggle, the bombing of the 16th Street Baptist Church, told through the eyes of young people. It’s "The Watsons Go to Birmingham, 1963" by Christopher Paul Curtis. Teaching guide at the website bookclubforkids.org.
Bonus Anne Nesbet on Alice Guy-Blanche
Jul 22 2020
Last week, we discussed the novel “Daring Darleen, Queen of the Screen” by Anne Nesbet. It’s a tale set during the early days of movie making. One character in the book is a real-life person, a larger than life woman whose contribution to filmmaking has been largely forgotten over the years. Anne Nesbet, who also teaches film history at UC Berkeley and she fills us in a bit more about Alice Guy-Blanche. We’ll have links to one of Alice Guy-Blanche’s films and to a documentary about her work at o...more
Episode 109 Daring Darleen, Queen of the Screen by Anne Nesbet
Jul 15 2020
Summertime's the perfect time to go to the movies...even if we can't go in person. Meet "Daring Darleen, Queen of the Screen," a heroine from the early days of movie making. Taped remotely at the Bay Area Book Festival, a trio of 7th graders from Albany Middle School in northern California discuss the novel by Anne Nesbit and interview the author. Our celebrity reader is Pam Rogers from the Buttons & Figs podcast. Kitty Felde is host. To see a video of this Zoom episode, check out our website, ...more
Bonus July 2020 Summer Reading
Jul 08 2020
Readers from Ohio, Maryland, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and New York share their summer reading suggestions with host Kitty Felde. www.bookclubforkids.org Â
One Crazy Summer by Rita Williams Garcia
Jul 01 2020
The fight for racial equality didn't start with Black Lives Matter. This week, we visit a Black Panther summer camp in Rita Williams-Garcia's novel "One Crazy Summer." Readers from Washington, DC's Jefferson Academy discuss the novel and host Kitty Felde speaks with the author.
A Conversation with Writer Jewell Parker Rhodes
Jun 24 2020
Jewell Parker Rhodes, winner of the American Book Award, talks about the difficulty of writing "Ghost Boys" and about her own reading journey with host Kitty Felde. bookclubforkids.org
Episode 108 - Ghost Boys by Jewell Parker Rhodes
Jun 17 2020
How do we talk about police violence targeting African-Americans? This group of eighth graders from Columbia Heights Educational Campus/Lincoln Middle School in Washington, DC discuss “Ghost Boys” by Jewell Parker Rhodes. Actor Jonathan Del Palmer Rhodes is celebrity reader. Kitty Felde is host. NOTE: this discussion contains a discussion about violence, Emmett Till, and police violence. www.bookclubforkids.org
Summer Reading Suggestions from Readers at the LA Public Library
Jun 10 2020
Libraries across the world are kicking off their summer reading programs - many of them remotely. Which means finding ebooks or ordering online and picking up hard copies at the library curbside pickup spot. But which books to pick? It’s so much harder when you can’t see a book on the shelf. We have some suggestions from readers at the LA Public Library. You can be on the show, too. Check out the website for info: www.bookclubforkids.org
Tuck Everlasting by Natalie Babbitt
Jun 03 2020
Would you like to live forever? That's the question our readers from Basis DC Charter School ponder as they discuss Natalie Babbitt's classic tale "Tuck Everlasting" with host Kitty Felde. Actress Denise Krueger is celebrity reader. The late writer talks about her own view of life and death. There is free curriculum at the website: bookclubforkids.org
Summer Reading Kickoff 2020
May 27 2020
We want to hear what you're reading this summer. On this episode, kids from coast to coast share their favorites. You can be on the show, too. Attention parents, teachers, and librarians: Looking for a way to inspire your Summer Readers when they can’t go to the library? Turn them into podcast stars.  It's easy: - find the voice memo or recording app on a smartphone - set the level somewhere in the middle - have the reader introduce her/himself as: Hi, my name is - (first name only) I'm from (...more
Episode 107 - Stef Soto Taco Queen by Jennifer Torres
May 20 2020
A story about entrepreneurs and rock stars and veggie burritos. Readers from the Children Chatting with Children’s Authors podcast discuss Jennifer Torres' novel "Stef Soto, Taco Queen" in an episode taped live at the Studio City branch of the LA Public Library. Jeannette Franco is celebrity reader. Kitty Felde is host. www.bookclubforkids.org
What's Your Favorite Book?
May 13 2020
We invited readers from around the world to tell us about their favorite books. Kitty Felde is host.
When You Reach Me by Rebecca Stead
May 06 2020
If you were a time traveler, would you go to the future or the past? That's the question readers from Lafayette Elementary School in Washington, DC ponder as they discuss the Newbery Award-winning "When You Reach Me" by Rebecca Stead. NPR reporter Neda Ulaby is celebrity reader. Kitty Felde is host. Free curriculum for this episode available at the website: bookclubforkids.org
Kazu Kibuishi Talks about Writing
Apr 29 2020
Kazu Kibuishi admits he never thought "Amulet" would be a hit. He talks about writing, travel, research, and screenwriting with host Kitty Felde.
Podapalooza Episode
Apr 26 2020
This weekend we’re participating in a special podcast event: Podapalooza, to raise funds for folks hardest hit by Covid-19. We here at Book Club create a second podcast – The Fina Mendoza Mysteries – and for Podapalooza, we’re sharing episode 1. The Fina Mendoza Mysteries is a serialized mystery series for kids and political junkies. Season one tells the tale of the 10 year old daughter of a congressman who solves the mystery of the demon cat of Capitol Hill. We all know that COVID 19 is hitti...more
Episode 106 - Amulet by Kazu Kibuishi
Apr 22 2020
It's the perfect time to escape on an adventure. Our graphic novel "Amulet" by Kazu Kibuishi tells the tale of a magical amulet that leads a young girl on a quest. Students from Ketcham Elementary School in Washington, D.C. talk about magic in their own lives and have lots of questions for our writer. Actor Denny Colonna is celebrity reader. Kitty Felde is host. www.bookclubforkids.org
Favorite Books from PS 174
Apr 15 2020
It's the perfect time for a book series. We've got several terrific suggestions from kids in Queens, New York. More great book suggestions and free curriculum at our website bookclubforkids.org. Â Â
James and the Giant Peach Curriculum Episode
Apr 08 2020
We're reprising our episodes with free curriculum guides. We're starting with Roald Dahl's first book for children "James and the Giant Peach" because don't we all need to escape our current situation inside a giant summer fruit? Cash Peters is celebrity reader and students from LA's Equitas Academy discuss the book with host Kitty Felde. Free curriculum guide at bookclubforkids.org.
Be a Podcast Star
Apr 03 2020
It's your opportunity to be a podcast star. Listen for details.
Angie Thomas Shares Her Playlist
Apr 01 2020
Ever wonder what a writer uses for inspiration? Angie Thomas tells us what gets her fingers flying over the keyboard. Â www.bookclubforkids.org
Episode 105 - On the Come Up by Angie Thomas
Mar 25 2020
Today it’s a book for older kids – "On the Come UP" by Angie Thomas. Our main character is an aspiring rap star dealing with sudden fame and the reputation of her late father. Our readers are from West Education Campus in Washington, D.C. Actress Tallie Johnson is celebrity reader. Kitty Felde is host. We’ll have a list of everybody’s favorite book at our website, bookclubforkids.org. In fact, we have lots and lots of book suggestions to help you find the perfect ebook or audiobook to download ...more
Book Suggestions from Laurence School
Mar 18 2020
It’s an unusual time. A time when most of us are home with our families. A time when we can order up a book free of charge from our local library and have it delivered immediately to our phone, computer or tablet. But what book? We have some great suggestions from students at the Laurence School in Los Angeles. And we want to hear your suggestions for great books and book series we can be reading during this time of social distancing. If you have book suggestion, please call us at 323-639-3560. ...more
Episode 104 - The Okay Witch by Emma Steinkellner
Mar 11 2020
Did you ever think you were a little different than everybody else in school? Suppose you found out there’s a reason for that and that reason is that you’re actually a witch. That's the story of "The Okay Witch," by Emma Steinkellner. Students from Virginia Road Elementary School in Los Angeles discuss the graphic novel and interview Emma. Actress Diane Adair is celebrity reader. Kitty Felde is host. www.bookclubforkids.org
Bonus Interview with Renee Watson and Ellen Hagan
Mar 04 2020
Renee Watson and Ellen Hagan co-wrote "Watch Us Rise." They answer the two biggest questions: how do you collaborate with a friend without destroying the friendship? And what's the best snack for writing inspiration? Kitty Felde is host.
Episode 103 - Watch Us Rise by Renee Watson and Ellen Hagan
Feb 26 2020
Was there ever a time when you had to stand up and speak your mind, no matter the consequences? Is it harder to do that if you're female? Standing up for girls is at the heart of this week’s book "Watch Us Rise" do, letting the world know what it’s like sometimes, being a girl. Our readers from Brookland Middle School in Washington D.C. interview the wrtiers Renee Watson and Ellen Hagan. Our celebrity reader is actress Pinkie Washington. Kitty Felde is host. Reading tips at our website www.bookc...more
Bonus Episode - A Conversation with Writer Tricia Springstubb
Feb 19 2020
Tricia Springstubb is the writer of the "Cody and the Mysteries of the Universe" series and other books. She tells Kitty Felde about finding Cody's voice and the difference between writing middle grade novels and picture books.
Episode 102 - Cody and the Mysteries of the Universe by Tricia Springstubb
Feb 12 2020
Writers are often confused when editors talk about “voice” in children’s literature. The title character in “Cody and the Mysteries of the Universe” has one of the most unique voices in print. Readers from Randle Highlands Elementary School in Washington, D.C. discuss the book with host Kitty Felde and ask questions of writer Tricia Springstubb. Actress Peggy Miley is celebrity reader.
Favorite Books from Brooklyn and the LA Public Library Maker Faire
Feb 05 2020
It's our favorite question: what's your favorite book? We get lots of answers from our readers who called in to us or talked to us at the Los Angeles Public Library's Mini Maker Faire. Kitty Felde is host.
The Book Thief - Markus Zusak
Jan 29 2020
Students from Stuart-Hobson Middle School in Washington, DC talk about "The Book Thief" by Markus Zusak. The conversation covers everything from death to Nazis to books. Actress Melanie MacQueen (Robotech) is celebrity reader. Kitty Felde is host. Markus Zusak interview is courtesy of the Australian bookstore Booktopia. Spoiler Alert: plot points are discussed in this episode. Find out how you can be on the show at our website: www.bookclubforkids.org
Favorite Books from the British International School in Houston
Jan 22 2020
We get some terrific book suggestions from kids from around the world - from Scotland to Singapore, England to Ecuador, Mexico to Australia. Readers from the British International School in Houston share their favorites with host Kitty Felde. Get reading tips or find out how you can be on the show at our website: bookclubforkids.org.
Episode 100 The Storm Runner
Jan 15 2020
It’s our 100th episode! To celebrate, we travel up to the Bay Area Book Festival to tape a live show celebrating “The Storm Runner” by J. C. Cervantes. This fantasy tale with Mayan mythology is a “Rick Riordan Presents” novel. Public radio journalist Erika Quilar from KQED is celebrity reader. Our readers are 6th graders at Albany Middle School in Northern California and they quiz our author. Kitty Felde is host.
Favorite Books in 2020
Jan 08 2020
We talked to kids in Maryland, Illinois, and California and asked them to tell us their favorite books. Here's their picks for 2020.
Fan Favorite 2019
Jan 01 2020
We asked you to pick your favorite Book Club for Kids episode. Thank you for voting! And the winner of the 2019 Fan Favorite Episode is "Fish in a Tree" by Lynda Mullaly Hunt. Our celebrity reader is actress Mimi Kennedy of "Mom" and kids at the East Rancho Dominguez branch of the LA County Library discuss the novel. Lynda Mullaly Hunt tells host Kitty Felde what it was like to be the kid who never read.
Happy Holidays from our UK Friends at Fun Kids Book Club
Dec 25 2019
In honor of the holidays, we bring you this special bonus episode of the Book Club for Kids. It comes from our friends in London at the UK’s children’s radio station, Fun Kids. Every other week, they produce a show called the Fun Kids Book Club podcast. Their show is a bit different from Book Club for Kids – not only do they talk faster and have wonderful British accents, the show is presented by their host Bex and features authors from the UK who chat about how they wrote their book and answer ...more
A Tree Grows in Brooklyn: Producer Ilsa Setziol's Favorite Episode
Dec 18 2019
We’re counting down to our 100th episode and we’re asking YOU what’s your favorite episode? You can email us here. We asked our producer Ilsa Setziol which episode was HER favorite. She explains why she loves “A Tree Grows in Brooklyn.” Williamsburg has changed enormously since Betty Smith published "A Tree Grows in Brooklyn" in 1943. But a trio of DC readers tell host Kitty Felde that they find contemporary themes - the chasm between rich and poor, the rise of the #MeToo movement - in the no...more
A Short Interview with Writer Alan Gratz
Dec 11 2019
Last week, we talked about “Refugee,” Alan Gratz’ tale of kids fleeing violence and political oppression around the world. It’s a tough read. I had to put it down a few times. But how difficult is it to write a book about a tough subject? We asked Alan Gratz.
Episode 99 - Refugee by Alan Gratz
Dec 04 2019
What would it be like to leave everything you know, everything you own, everyone you love to escape war, persecution, or poverty? In “Refugee,” Alan Gratz imagines how three young people struggle to survive as they excape to freedom. Students from Washington Latin Public Charter School in Washington, D.C. discuss the book with host Kitty Felde. Actress Amy Solano is celebrity reader.
Thanksgiving Roadtrip 2019
Nov 20 2019
Thanksgiving is next week and we know a lot of you will be on the road this weekend – by plane, car, bus, boat, whatever. We wanted to give you something to listen to as you make your way to grandmother’s house or wherever you are headed. So we’ve collected six Book Club for Kids episodes with family themes at their center. In this extended Book Club for Kids episode, we’ll meet a large family in Utah where one kid describes himself as THE GREAT BRAIN, a classic by John D Fitzgerald. (Celebrity ...more
Bonus Episode: Favorite Books from Grosse Point, Michigan
Nov 13 2019
Readers from Michigan recommend their favorite books...and many of them are Book Club for Kids episodes. Kitty Felde is host.
Episode 98 - Rooftoppers by Katherine Rundell
Nov 06 2019
Sophie's quest to find her mother takes her from London to Paris - mostly rooftop to rooftop. Katherine Rundell's novel "Rooftoppers" is our book this episode. Students from the British International School of Washington discuss the book with host Kitty Felde. Director and audio book actress Stevie Zimmerman is celebrity reader. Katherine Rundell talks about writing for the stage vs. writing books for kids.
Favorite Books from WORLDCON, the World Science Fiction Convention in Dublin
Oct 30 2019
Ever wonder what kids in other countries are reading? This week, we take you to Dublin, Ireland which hosted WORLDCON, the World Science Fiction Convention. While the adults were attending panels, the kids were creating fabulous costumes for the masquerade parade...and taking the time to tell host Kitty Felde the name of their favorite books.Â
Sneak Preview of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast
Oct 23 2019
We have a special treat this week for Book Club for Kids listeners. It's something completely different. Instead of our regular Book Club for Kids episode, we invite you to stay tuned for a special SNEAK PREVIEW of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast. It's the story of the 10-year old daughter of a congessman from California who moves to Washington DC and solves the mystery of the Demon Cat of Capitol Hill. Episode 1 will be released to the rest of the world on Friday, but we thought our loyal B...more
Peter Brown on Writing
Oct 16 2019
Peter Brown is both a writer and illustrator. We talk to him about how he plots a story and the teacher he hated who set him on his path to becoming a professional artist. Kitty Felde is host.
Episode 97 - The Wild Robot
Oct 09 2019
Do you have a relationship with the robot in your life? You'll fall in love with "The Wild Robot" by Peter Brown. 4th graders from Flora Hendley Elementary School in Washington, D.C. discuss artificial intelligence and their own favorite robotic devices. U.S. Congressman Scott Peters from San Diego is celebrity reader. Kitty Felde is host.
Bonus Episode Favorite Books From LitFest Pasadena
Oct 02 2019
Got a favorite book? These readers at Vroman's Bookstore for LitFest Pasadena have a few suggestions to share with host Kitty Felde.
Peasprout Chen, Future Legend of Skate and Sword by Henry Lien
Sep 25 2019
What do you get when you mix figure skating, martial arts, and Hogwarts? We take the stage live at Vroman’s Bookstore for LitFest Pasadena to discuss Henry Lien’s “Peasprout Chen, Future Legend of Skate and Sword.” Voice actress Veronica Lopez is our celebrity reader. Kitty Felde is host.
More from writer Varian Johnson
Sep 18 2019
Writer Varian Johnson of "The Parker Inheritance" shares his secrets about writing a successful mystery with host Kitty Felde.
Episode 95 - The Parker Inheritance by Varian Johnson
Sep 11 2019
Do you love a mystery? Do you love playing detective, looking for clues on every page? This week’s novel is about a lot of things – segregation, bullying, and most of all, a family mystery. This week's episode is "The Parker Inheritance" by Varian Johnson. Our readers are from Washington DC’s AIM Academy. Actress Sheila Collins is celebrity reader. Kitty Felde is host.
Favorite Books from Studio City
Sep 04 2019
We head out to the San Fernando Valley of Los Angeles to ask readers at the Studio City branch of the LA Public Library to tell us their favorite books. Kitty Felde is host.
Episode 62 The First Rule of Punk by Celia Perez
Aug 28 2019
Malu is moving to Chicago and she's not very happy about it. She's also not very happy with the way her mother would like her to be. Two things do make her happy: punk music and creating zines. The book is the 2018 Pura Belpré Award Author Honor winner "
Bonus Favorite Books Eagan Minnesota
Aug 21 2019
5th graders from Deerwood Elementary School in Eagan, Minnesota share their favorite books with us. Kitty Felde is host.
Summer Intern Hannah Matzecki's Favorite Episode - Hour of the Bees by Lindsay Eagar
Aug 14 2019
The worst summer vacation ever? Being stuck in the middle of a New Mexico desert with the crabbiest grandfather on planet earth. But there are also magical bees that promise the end of of a drought. Students from Belvedere Elementary School in Falls Church, Virginia. Our celebrity reader is New Mexico Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham. Kitty Felde is host. This episode is the favorite of summer intern Hannah Matzecki.
Favorite Books Arlington Heights, Illinois
Aug 07 2019
Readers from the Arlington Heights Memorial Library in Illinois share their favorite books with host Kitty Felde.
Episode 94 - The Length of a String by Elissa Brent Weissman
Jul 31 2019
What’s it like to be adopted? Does your adopted family’s history become your history or do you feel the need to find your biological story? Our book this week is "The Length of a String" by Elissa Brent Weissman. It’s a Holocaust story about a Jewish family separated by the war. Readers from the Girlfriends Book Club of Baltimore at Hazelwood Elementary Middle School discuss the book and pose lots of questions to our writer. Actor and producer Bari Hochwald is celebrity reader. Kitty Felde is ho...more
Margaret Peterson Haddix
Jul 24 2019
Writer Margaret Peterson Haddix has published nearly four dozen novel. We talk to her about how she manages to write so many books, the difference between writing fiction and non-fiction, and get a sneak preview of her newest series. Kitty Felde is host.
Episode 93 - Double Identity by Margaret Peterson Haddix
Jul 17 2019
C’mon. Admit it. Don’t you just wish sometimes that your parents would just disappear? But what happens next? That’s just part of the plot for our book this week “Double Identity” By Margaret Peterson Haddix. Our readers are from Sousa Middle School in Washington, D.C. Our celebrity reader is actress Molly Parker, from "Deadwood" and "Lost In Space." Kitty Felde is host. Oh, and just a warning: the discussion contains spoiler alerts, so you might want to read the book before you listen to the ...more
Bonus Episode: The Search for the Real Great Brain
Jul 10 2019
Has a book inspired you to take a summer vacation to a particular place? "The Great Brain" series seems to have inspired a lot of readers - including Sharon Madsen's family. Sharon's become the unofficial John D. Fitzgerald historian, archivist, and tour guide, taking fans of "The Great Brain" series around Fitzgerald's hometown of Price Utah. Kitty Felde talks to Sharon Madsen about her family's obsession.
Episode 92 - The Great Brain by John D. Fitzgerald
Jul 03 2019
This week, we catch up with readers in Houston, Texas who love "The Great Brain" books by John D. Fitzgerald SO much, they named their book club after it. Not familiar with the book? A lot of the plot involves the oldest brother Tom who always has a new scheme to separate kids from their money. Our celebrity reader is J. Keith van Straaten, host of the game show podcast Go Fact Yourself. Our writer John D. Fitzgerald is no longer with us, but Sharon Madsen, the resident expert on Fitzgerald, say...more
Summer Reading from the LA Public Library's Mini Maker Faire
Jun 26 2019
Looking for great summer reading ideas? This group from Southern California have lots of suggestions.
Episode 91 - Miss Peregrines Home for Peculiar Children by Ransom Riggs
Jun 19 2019
Do you ever feel different? Peculiar? Perhaps not as peculiar as the kids in "Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children." Readers from the DC International School discuss Ransom Riggs' novel and pose questions to the author. NPR Special Correspondent Melissa Block is celebrity reader. Kitty Felde is host.
Favorite Books from the LA Public Library's Maker Faire
Jun 12 2019
We usually talk to middle school kids on Book Club for Kids. This week, we hear book suggestions from some of our youngest listeners. The episode was recorded at the LA Public Library's Mini Maker Faire at the downtown Central Library. Kitty Felde is host.
Episode 90 - Esperanza Rising by Pam Munoz Ryan
Jun 05 2019
"Esperanza Rising" is a riches to rags tale about a wealthy Mexican family who end up as farmworkers in California's Central Valley. Students from Murch Elementary School in Washington, DC compare the book to Frances Hodgson Burnett's "A Little Princess." Actress Christine Avila is celebrity reader. Writer Pam Munoz Ryan talks about her real-life grandmother whose life inspired the book. Kitty Felde is host.Â
A conversation with graphic novelist Nidhi Chanani
May 29 2019
Writer Nidhi Chanani always wanted to be a writer. Kitty Felde talks to Nidhi and finds out how did she end up writing her graphic novel "Pashmina."
Episode 89 - Pashmina by Nidhi Chanani
May 22 2019
Is a podcast about a graphic novel like dancing about architecture? Give a listen to our latest episode "Pashmina" by Nidhi Chanani. It's a tale about a magical pashina and secrets and mothers and daughters. Our readers are students at Kelly Miller Middle School in Washington, DC. Rasika Mathur is our celebrity reader. Kitty Felde is host.
Veronica Roth on Writing
May 15 2019
"Divergent" writer Veronica Roth talks about her latest writing adventures.
Episode 88 - Divergent by Veronica Roth
May 08 2019
We venture into a dystopian universe created by writer Veronica Roth. "Divergent" is a tale about finding out where you fit in – and whether you’re brave enough to take a literal leap of faith. Our celebrity reader is the 2018 Ms. Senior California and a familiar voice on Southern California Public Radio KPCC Rita Pardue. Our readers are from Benjamin Trasker Middle School and we taped the episode at the Bowie, Maryland branch of the Prince Georges County Memorial Library. Kitty Felde is host.
Bonus Chris Tebbetts
May 01 2019
Chris Tebbetts talks about book packaging, collaboration with James Patterson, and using storyboarding and other techniques as a writer. For more with Chris Tebbetts, listen to the entire episode of “Public School Superhero.”
Episode 87 - Public School Superhero by James Patterson and Chris Tebbetts
Apr 24 2019
Do you dream about becoming a superhero? What kind? 5th graders from DC's School Within a School discuss "Public School Superhero" by James Patterson and Chris Tebbetts. In the book, our hero Kenny dons his alter ego Stainless Steel just to survive at a very lousy middle school. Actor Chuma Hunter-Gault is our celebrity reader and Chris Tebbetts joins us to talk about collaborating. Kitty Felde is host.
Bonus episode with writerDan Gutman
Apr 17 2019
What's next for Dan Gutman's My Wierd School series?
Bonus Episode: A Conversation with Dodger Legend Tommy Davis
Apr 15 2019
Baseball legend Tommy Davis only signed with the Dodgers because of phone call from Jackie Robinson. And even though he played in a different era, Tommy experienced racism from baseball fans firsthand.Â
Episode 86 - Jackie & Me by Dan Gutman
Apr 10 2019
Every April 15th, Major League Baseball celebrates the day that Jack Roosevelt Robinson started at first base for the Brooklyn Dodgers, the day that integrated baseball. This year marks Jackie Robinson’s 100th birthday and to celebrate, we’re discussing the novel “Jackie & Me” by Dan Gutman. Readers from Murch Elementary School in Washington, DC discuss the book with host Kitty Felde. Our celebrity reader is another legendary Dodger, the two-time National League batting champion, Tommy Davis.
Favorite Books from You
Apr 03 2019
Readers from across the country call in and tell host Kitty Felde their favorite books.
Episode 85 - Maniac Magee by Jerry Spinelli
Mar 27 2019
Would you like to be a legend? To have people tell stories about you long after you’re gone? Would you like to be “Maniac Magee” by Jerry Spinelli? This Newbery Award-winning classic is our Book Club for Kids pick this week. Our readers are from Anne Beers Elementary School in Washington, D.C. and John Michael Higgins (“Pitch Perfect” and “A Mighty Wind”) is our celebrity reader. Kitty Felde is host.
Favorite Books from Palos Heights Illinois
Mar 20 2019
Readers at the Palos Heights Public Library share their favorite books...and many of them are our favorites, too!