KidLit RADIO

Episodes

• KidLit RADIO: StoryMakers with Lesa Cline-Ransome and James Ransome

  Listen

  Jan 02 2022

  On the StoryMakers podcast, multi-award-winning author and illustrator duo, Lesa Cline-Ransome and James Ransome offer us a window into a child’s experience of the Great Migration in OVERGROUND RAILROAD, and then introduce us to the characters and history behind the second book in the FINDING LANGSTON TRILOGY, LEAVING LYMON. About OVERGROUND RAILROAD A window into a child’s experience of the Great Migration from the award-winning creators of Before She Was Harriet and Finding Langston. As she climbs aboard the New York-bound Silver Meteor train, Ruth Ellen embarks upon a journey toward a new life up North– one she can’t begin to imagine. Stop by stop, the perceptive young narrator tells her journey in poems, leaving behind the cotton fields and distant Blue Ridge mountains. Each leg of the trip brings new revelations as scenes out the window of folks working in fields give way to the Delaware River, the curtain that separates the colored car is removed, and glimpses of the freedom and opportunity the family hopes to find come into view. As they travel, Ruth Ellen reads from Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass, reflecting on how her journey mirrors her own– until finally, the train arrives at its last stop, New York’s Penn Station and the family heads out into a night filled with bright lights, glimmering stars, and new possibility. James Ransome’s mixed-media illustrations are full of bold color and texture, bringing Ruth Ellen’s journey to life, from sprawling cotton fields to cramped train cars, the wary glances of other passengers and the dark forest through which Frederick Douglass traveled towards freedom. Overground Railroad is, as Lesa notes, a story “of people who were running from and running to at the same time,” and it’s a story that will stay with readers long after the final pages. About LEAVING LYMON A companion novel to Finding Langston, recipient of a Coretta Scott King Writing Honor and winner of the Scott O’Dell Award for Historical Fiction. Behind every bad boy is a story worth hearing and at least one chance for redemption. It’s 1946 and Lymon, uprooted from his life in the Deep South and moved up North, needs that chance. Lymon’s father is, for the time being, at Parchman Farm–the Mississippi State Penitentiary–and his mother, whom he doesn’t remember all that much, has moved North. Fortunately, Lymon is being raised by his loving grandparents. Together, Lymon and his grandpops share a love of music, spending late summer nights playing the guitar. But Lymon’s world as he knows it is about to dissolve. He will be sent on a journey to two Northern cities far from the country life he loves–and the version of himself he knows. In this companion novel to the Coretta Scott King Honor-winning Finding Langston, readers will see a new side of the bully Lymon in this story of an angry boy whose raw talent, resilience, and devotion to music help point him in a new direction. ABOUT Lesa Cline-Ransome Lesa Cline-Ransome is the writer of many picture books. Her picture book biography titles include Satchel Paige, Major Taylor, Champion Cyclist, Young Pele, Soccer’s First Star, Helen Keller, The World in Her Heart, Before There was Mozart and Words Set me Free: The Story of Young Frederick Douglass. Other titles are Quilt Alphabet, Quilt Counting and her newest is Light in the Darkness, A Story about How Slaves Learned in Secret. Originally from Malden, Massachusetts, Lesa has worked as a proofreader, fashion copywriter, publicist, teacher in the New York City Schools, and taught writing for adults. She has a B.F.A. in Merchandising and Management from Pratt Institute and an M.A. in Education from N.Y.U. She lives in Rhinebeck, New York and with her husband and frequent collaborator, illustrator James Ransome, four children and St. Bernard, Nola. ABOUT James Ransome James is both a painter and award-winning illustrator, with work exhibited in both private and public art collections. He has illustrated over 50 books, and his awards include the Boston Globe-Horn Book Award Picture Book Honor and the ALA Notable Book Award forSky Boys; the Coretta Scott King Honor for Uncle Jed’s Barbershop; the Coretta Scott King and IBBY awards for Creation; the NAACP Image Award for Let My People Go and Our Children Can Soar; and the Simon Wiesenthal Museum of Tolerance Award, Rip Van Winkle Award, SEBA Best Book of the Year Award and Dutchess County Executive Art Award for Individual Artist. Sponsored by HOLIDAY HOUSE CONNECT WITH Lesa Website | Twitter WATCH Lesa’s writing series, PAST PRESENT on KidLit TV CONNECT WITH JAMES Website | Instagram | Facebook WATCH James’ drawing tutorials on YOUNG AT ART on KidLit TV The post KidLit RADIO: StoryMakers with Lesa Cline-Ransome and James Ransome appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit RADIO: StoryMakers with Aram Kim LET’S GO TO TAEKWONDO!

  Listen

  Jan 02 2022

  Charyut! Attention! Aram Kim is back on StoryMakers for a chat about her new book LET’S GO TO TAEKWONDO! In this Kidlit RADIO podcast, join Aram as she catches us up on what her character Yoomi from NO KIMCHI FOR ME has been getting up to, learn about the rituals of the martial art Taekwondo and how to count to ten in Korean! ABOUT the Book WATCH Aram’s StoryMakers episode HERE! {"@context":"http:\/\/schema.org\/","@id":"https:\/\/www.kidlit.tv\/2022\/01\/kidlit-radio-storymakers-with-aram-kim-lets-go-to-taekwondo\/#arve-youtube-byxnaf40n906422838f5e3f9996029795","type":"VideoObject","embedURL":"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/byxNaF40N90?feature=oembed&iv_load_policy=3&modestbranding=1&rel=0&autohide=1&playsinline=0&autoplay=0&enablejsapi=1","name":"StoryMakers with Aram Kim LET'S GO TAEKWONDO","thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/i.ytimg.com\/vi\/byxNaF40N90\/hqdefault.jpg","uploadDate":"2022-01-02T07:00:57+00:00","author":"KidLit TV","description":"Charyut! Attention! Aram Kim is back on StoryMakers for a chat about her new book LET\u2019S GO TO TAEKWONDO! In this Kidlit RADIO podcast, join Aram as she catches us up on what her character Yoomi from NO KIMCHI FOR ME has been getting up to, learn about the rituals of the martial art Taekwondo and how"} Download LET’S GO TO TAEKWONDO Activites from Holiday House! ABOUT Aram Kim Aram Kim is a New York-based children’s book author/illustrator. She was born in Cincinnati, Ohio and when she was two, her family moved back to South Korea. When Aram grew up, she came to New York to study illustration. She is currently living in Queens, NY, where she is happily surrounded by diverse food and culture. She has been working for various publications and participating in numerous exhibitions and collaboration projects. Sponsored by Holiday House CONNECT WITH ARAM KIM Website | Twitter | Tumblr The post KidLit RADIO: StoryMakers with Aram Kim LET’S GO TO TAEKWONDO! appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit RADIO: StoryMakers with Hyewon Yum LION NEEDS A HAIRCUT

  Listen

  Jan 01 2022

  We’re heading to the barbershop in “Booklyn” with Hyewon Yum on this podcast of StoryMakers! Join the author of LION NEEDS A HAIRCUT for a chat about why haircuts can be a bit scary when you are little and then get your styling groove on with Rocco and Hyewon’s super fun haircut printable. What kind of haircut should little lion and Dad get? Download this drawing sheet and style their hair! About The Book This relatable story from award-winning author-illustrator Hyewon Yum explores the universal fear of first haircuts with honesty, tenderness, and humor. Little lion needs a haircut. But he doesn’t want one! Is he worried? No. Is he scared? NO! He just likes his hair the way it is. R-O-A-R! But there’s someone else who needs a haircut, too . . . it’s Dad, and he doesn’t want one, either! Maybe if they go to the barbershop together, there will be nothing to worry about. ABOUT Hyewon Yum Author and Illustrator of These books: The Twins’ Little sister, Last Night, a Fiction Honorable Mention for the Bologna Ragazzi Award and Winner of the Golden Kite Award; There are No Scary Wolves, Winner of Society of illustrators’ Founder’s Award; The Twins’ Blanket, a Junior Library Guild selection; and Mom, It’s my first day of Kindergarten!, which won the Ezra Jack Keats New Illustrator Award and was selected as a Kirkus Reviews Best Book of the Year. She lives in Brooklyn, New York. Sponsored by ABRAMS   CONNECT with Hyewon Yum Website | Facebook | Instagram   The post KidLit RADIO: StoryMakers with Hyewon Yum LION NEEDS A HAIRCUT appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit RADIO: THE NUTCRACKER IN HARLEM Read Out Loud

  Listen

  Dec 01 2021

  On this kid lit podcast episode of Read Out Loud, T.E. McMorrow reads aloud THE NUTCRACKER IN HARLEM. ABOUT THE BOOK Written by T.E. McMorrow and illustrated by James Ransome. This jazz-inspired reinvention of The Nutcracker is a worthy tribute to the dreamlike wonder and magic of the Christmas season. In this original retelling, set in New York City during the height of the Harlem Renaissance, one little girl finds her voice as a musician thanks to her enchanting adventures with a magical toy. Watch T.E. McMorrow’s Read Out Loud Episode! ABOUT T. E. McMorrow T. E. McMorrow belongs to the third generation of writers in his family. A journalist and playwright, he is also a member of the Drama Desk in New York City. Many years ago, he worked as a stagehand for the Dance Theatre of Harlem, an experience that helped plant the first seeds of inspiration for this book. Mr. McMorrow splits his time between Manhattan and the East End of Long Island with his wife, Carole, and their two cats, Cinnamon and Moxie ABOUT James Ransome James Ransome is both a painter and award-winning illustrator, with work exhibited in both private and public art collections. He has illustrated over 50 books, and his awards include the Boston Globe-Horn Book Award Picture Book Honor and the ALA Notable Book Award for Sky Boys; the Coretta Scott King Honor for Uncle Jed’s Barbershop; the Coretta Scott King and IBBY awards for Creation; the NAACP Image Award for Let My People Go and Our Children Can Soar; and the Simon Wiesenthal Museum of Tolerance Award, Rip Van Winkle Award, SEBA Best Book of the Year Award and Dutchess County Executive Art Award for Individual Artist. CONNECT WITH T. E. McMorrow Twitter CONNECT WITH James Ransome Website | Instagram | Facebook CONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook | Instagram | Newsletter | Pinterest | Twitter | YouTube The post KidLit RADIO: THE NUTCRACKER IN HARLEM Read Out Loud appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit RADIO: GOODNIGHT MANGER Read Out Loud

  Listen

  Dec 01 2021

  Away in a manger — was a whole lot of noise! As Joseph and Mary try to get the baby Jesus to sleep, they discover stables aren’t the quietest places! As you try to get your own little ones to sleep this holiday season, listen together to Laura Sassi reading GOODNIGHT MANGER on this kidlit podcast episode of Read Out Loud. ABOUT THE BOOK Goodnight, Manger  (Zonderkidz) Written by  Laura Sassi; illustrated by Jane Champman Goodnight, Manger, written by Laura Sassi and illustrated by New York Times bestselling artist Jane Chapman, tells the story of Mary and Joseph as they try to lull Jesus to sleep in the noisy stable after his birth. Watch Laura’s Read Out Loud Episode! CONNECT WITH LAURA SASSI Website CONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook| Instagram | Newsletter | Pinterest | Twitter | YouTube The post KidLit RADIO: GOODNIGHT MANGER Read Out Loud appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit RADIO: WHERE’S PRANCER? Read Out Loud

  Listen

  Dec 01 2021

  Quick! KidLit Radio listeners, one of Santa’s reindeer has gone missing. If Santa and the other seven reindeer can’t find Prancer, there may never be another Christmas! Find out where Prancer has gone on this holiday podcast episode of Read Out Loud as Rocco reads the picture book classic, WHERE’S PRANCER by Syd Hoff. Watch Rocco read WHERE’S PRANCER? ABOUT THE BOOK WHERE’S PRANCER? by Sid Hoff As Santa Claus is giving his reindeer a treat after a long night of delivering presents, he notices something alarming. Prancer has disappeared! Where in the world could he be? In the Philippine Islands? Or Sweden? Or Sioux City, Iowa? Santa and the other reindeer have got to find him in the twinkling of an eye, because if they don’t, there may never be another Christmas… This holiday classic from the creator of Danny and the Dinosaur, available for the first time in a full-color paperback edition, will spread Christmas cheer to a whole new generation of readers. CONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook | Instagram | Newsletter | Pinterest | Twitter | YouTube Executive Producer: Julie Gribble  The post KidLit RADIO: WHERE’S PRANCER? Read Out Loud appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit RADIO: BALLOONS OVER BROADWAY Read Out Loud

  Listen

  Nov 16 2021

  Ever wonder who came up with the idea for the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade balloons? KidLit Radio is back with a special Thanksgiving podcast edition of Read Out Loud. Join Rocco as he reads Melissa Sweet’s BALLOONS OVER BROADWAY. ABOUT THE BOOK Balloons Over Broadway By Melissa Sweet  Everyone’s a New Yorker on Thanksgiving Day when young and old rise early to see which giant new balloons will fill the skies for Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. Who first invented these “upside-down puppets”? Meet Tony Sarg, puppeteer extraordinaire, rendered in brilliant collage illustrations! Watch the Read Out Loud Episode! CONNECT WITH MELISSA SWEET Facebook | Website CONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook Group | Facebook Page | Instagram | Newsletter | Pinterest | Twitter | YouTube The post KidLit RADIO: BALLOONS OVER BROADWAY Read Out Loud appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit RADIO: DON’T LET AUNTIE MABEL BLESS THE TABLE Read Out Loud

  Listen

  Nov 16 2021

  Sunday dinner is on the table. Whatever you do — DON’T LET ANTIE MABEL BLESS THE TABLE! Find out why on this podcast episode of Ready Set Draw as Vanessa Brantley-Newton reads her tale of family, thanksgiving, and patience. Watch Vanessa’s Episode of Read Out Loud ABOUT THE BOOK Auntie Mabel and her family and friends have gathered for their big Sunday dinner and can’t wait to dig into a delicious, mouthwatering meal. Before they can begin, Auntie Mabel starts and doesn’t stop blessing everyone and everything she surveys: the yams and Brussels sprouts, the table and chairs even the president of the United States! Author and illustrator Vanessa Brantley Newton’s delectable celebration of food and family is a joyous appreciation of how traditions and rituals bring us, and keep us, together. ABOUT VANESSA Vanessa Brantley Newton was born during the Civil Rights movement and attended school in Newark, NJ. Being part of a diverse, tight-knit community during such turbulent times, Vanessa learned the importance of acceptance and empowerment in shaping a young person’s life. When she read Snowy Day by Ezra Jack Keats, it was the first time she saw herself in a children’s book. It was a defining moment in her life and has made her into the artist she is today. As an illustrator, she includes children of all ethnic backgrounds in her stories and artwork. She wants all children to see their unique experiences reflected in the books they read so they can feel the same sense of empowerment and recognition she experienced as a young reader. CONNECT WITH VANESSA Website | Facebook  CONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook Group | Facebook Page | Instagram | Newsletter | Pinterest | Twitter | YouTube The post KidLit RADIO: DON’T LET AUNTIE MABEL BLESS THE TABLE Read Out Loud appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit RADIO: StoryMakers with Traci Sorell

  Listen

  Nov 16 2021

  Osiyo! That means hello in Cherokee! Join Rocco and author Traci Sorell on KidLit RADIO for a chat about her book about the four seasons, WE ARE GRATEFUL, OTSALIHELIGA, which was inspired by the people and culture of the Cherokee Nation today! Learn along with Rocco as Traci shares some words from the Cherokee language! Watch Taci Sorell on STORYMAKERS! ABOUT the Book Otsaliheliga (oh-jah-LEE-hay-lee-gah) is a word that Cherokee people use to express gratitude. Beginning in the fall with the Cherokee New Year and ending in summer, follow a full Cherokee year of celebrations and experiences. Written by Traci Sorell, a citizen of the Cherokee Nation, and illustrated by Frané Lessac, this nonfiction look at one group of Native Americans is appended with a glossary and the complete Cherokee syllabary, originally created by Sequoyah. ABOUT Traci Sorell Traci lives with her family in the Cherokee Nation, out in the country like she did as a child. Back then, she had geese, chickens, horses, dogs, and cats. Her mother’s Cherokee family has been in the area since the removal of most Cherokee people from their southeastern homelands in 1838. Traci grew up hearing stories about her ancestors and looking at their photographs with her elisi (eh-lee-see), grandma. Now her son does that with his elisi in addition to fishing in the nearby lake and learning about Cherokee culture. Sponsored by Website | Facebook | Twitter CONNECT WITH Traci! Website | Instagram | Twitter | Facebook CONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook Group | Facebook Page | Instagram | Newsletter | Pinterest | Twitter | YouTube Executive Producer: Julie Gribble  The post KidLit RADIO: StoryMakers with Traci Sorell appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit RADIO: WHEN THE COUSINS CAME Read Out Loud

  Listen

  Nov 16 2021

  Sometimes when we are really excited about something that is going to happen, we picture it in our minds beforehand — what a birthday party will be like, what might be under the Christmas tree, or even how a visit with our favourite people might go. Sometimes what ends up happening isn’t quite how we imagined it! In this podcast episode of Read Out Loud, join author/illustrator Katie Yamasaki as she reads WHEN THE COUSINS CAME, a book about difference, adversity, and how we deal with things when they don’t quite meet our expectations. Watch Katie’s Episode of Read Out Loud ABOUT THE BOOK WHEN THE COUSINS CAME by Katie Yamasaki Lila is excited for her cousins Takeo and Rosie to visit. They’re going to ride bikes, paint, and camp together! But when the cousins arrive, everything’s wrong: Rosie and Takeo are better painters than Lila, have skateboards instead of bikes, and don’t want to camp outside. Lila is terribly disappointed until the cousins make her a surprise: a big banner for their “best cousin” Lila! This sensitive story about insecurity, hosting, and friendship reminds children that negative thoughts and anxiety over exclusion don’t always translate to reality. ABOUT KATIE Yamasaki’s mural work has enabled her to travel widely, creating visual dialogues among diverse communities. From schools to prisons, housing occupations to hospitals, Yamasaki sees her art as a vehicle for dialogue, a tool for building platforms for communication. Yamasaki has painted over 80 murals around the world. Another major focus of Yamasaki’s work is storytelling. She has published 3 books: Honda, The Boy Who Dreamed of Cars (Lee and Low, 2007); Lifelines, the Black Book of Proverbs (Broadway Books/Random House, 2009), and Fish for Jimmy, her first book as both author and illustrator (Holiday House, 2013). Yamasaki also has two additional books in the works as author/illustrator, “When the Cousins Came,” (Holiday House, est. 2017) and the biography of her architect grandfather, Minoru Yamasaki, “YAMA,” (Lee & Low, est. 2017). Yamasaki earned BA at Earlham College and her MFA in the Illustration as Visual Essay program from the School of Visual Arts in 2003, where she is currently a member of the faculty.Yamasaki comes from a huge, diverse family, that is full of (among many other things), artists and teachers. CONNECT WITH KATIE Website | Facebook Page CONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook Group | Facebook Page | Instagram | Newsletter | Pinterest | Twitter | YouTube The post KidLit RADIO: WHEN THE COUSINS CAME Read Out Loud appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit RADIO: NO KIMCHI FOR ME! Read Out Loud

  Listen

  Nov 16 2021

  NO KIMCHI FOR ME! tells the story of Yoomi, who can not stand the strong smell and spicy flavour of kimchi, the condiment served with Korean meals. Can she learn to eat kimchi like the big kids? Her grandma has a plan. Join author Aram Kim as she reads NO KIMCHI FOR ME! on this podcast episode of Read Out Loud. We recorded this episode of Read Out Loud in front of a live audience of picture book lovers during the KidLit TV Children’s Book Weekend on Governors Island. ABOUT THE BOOK NO KIMCHI FOR ME! Yoomi hates stinky, spicy kimchi—the pickled cabbage condiment served at Korean meals. So her brothers call her a baby and refuse to play with her. Yoomi is determined to eat kimchi. She tries to disguise it by eating it on a cookie, on pizza, and in ice cream. But that doesn’t work. Then Grandma shows Yoomi how to make kimchi pancakes. This story about family, food, and a six-year-old “coming of age” has universal themes, and at the same time celebrates Korean culture. A kimchi pancake recipe and other back matter are included. Watch Aram’s Read Out Loud Episode! CONNECT WITH ARAM KIM Website | Twitter | Tumblr CONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook Group | Facebook Page | Instagram | Newsletter | Pinterest | Twitter | YouTube Executive Producer: Julie Gribble  The post KidLit RADIO: NO KIMCHI FOR ME! Read Out Loud appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit RADIO: StoryMakers with Amanda Davis 30,000 STITCHES

  Listen

  Aug 30 2021

  One flag. Thousands of hands. 30,000 STITCHES. Join Amanda Davis, author of 30,000 STITCHES, THE INSPIRING STORY OF THE 911 FLAG, for a new StoryMakers Podcast and learn the inspiring story of the National 9/11 Flag. Work along with Rocco & Amanda to create your own helping hand — a reminder that it feels great to work together & help others! Amanda & Rocco ask YOU to create a Helping Hand! Materials needed: Paper, scissors, markers, and any other materials you may want to use to design and decorate your helping hand.  Download the Helping Hands Activity from www.AmandaDavis.com About the Book Discover the inspiring story of the American flag that flew over Ground Zero, traveled across all fifty states as it was repaired, and returned to New York as a restored symbol of unity. In the days following September 11th, a 30-foot American flag hung torn and tattered at 90 West Street, across from Ground Zero. A few weeks later, the flag was taken down by a construction crew and tucked away in storage, where it stayed for nearly seven years. The flag was brought out of storage in 2008 when the New York Says Thank You Foundation headed to Greensburg, Kansas, a town nearly destroyed by a tornado. NYSTY brought the flag with them, sparking a grassroots restoration effort that traveled over 120,000 miles across all fifty states, bringing together thousands of people, and helping America heal and rebuild . . . hand by hand, thread by thread, one stitch at a time. This book is the story of that journey, a journey that ended at the opening of the National September 11 Museum, where the flag remains today. Along the way, the flag was restored using pieces of retired flags from every state—including a piece of the flag that Abraham Lincoln was laid on after he was shot at Ford’s Theater and threads from the original Star-Spangled Banner flag, which flew at Fort McHenry in the War of 1812 and inspired Francis Scott Key to write the national anthem. The pieces and threads were stitched in by military veterans, first responders, educators, students, community-service heroes, and family members of 9/11 victims, among others. At each stop, communities came together to remember, to heal, and to unite. WATCH Amanda’s StoryMakers episode HERE! {"@context":"http:\/\/schema.org\/","@id":"https:\/\/www.kidlit.tv\/2021\/08\/kidlit-radio-storymakers-with-amanda-davis-30000-stitches\/#arve-youtube-ngx-lpe03lo6422838f686e5914491942","type":"VideoObject","embedURL":"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/nGx-lPE03lo?feature=oembed&iv_load_policy=3&modestbranding=1&rel=0&autohide=1&playsinline=0&autoplay=0&enablejsapi=1","name":"StoryMakers with Amanda Davis | 30,000 STITCHES, THE INSPIRING STORY OF THE 911 FLAG","thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/i.ytimg.com\/vi\/nGx-lPE03lo\/hqdefault.jpg","uploadDate":"2021-08-30T07:00:59+00:00","author":"KidLit TV","description":"One flag. Thousands of hands. 30,000 STITCHES. Join Amanda Davis, author of\u00a030,000 STITCHES, THE INSPIRING STORY OF THE 911 FLAG, for a new StoryMakers Podcast and learn the inspiring story of the National 9\/11 Flag. Work along with Rocco & Amanda to create your own helping hand \u2014 a reminder tha"} About Amanda Davis ​Hi Friends! My name is Amanda Davis. I’m a teacher, artist, writer, and innovator who uses my words and pictures to light up the world with kindness. After losing my father at the age of twelve, I turned to art and writing as an outlet. It became my voice. A way to cope. A way to escape. And a way to tell my story. I was thus inspired to teach art and pursue my passion for writing and illustrating children’s books. Through my work, I strive to empower younger generations to tell their own stories and offer children and adults an entryway into a world of discovery. A world that can help them make sense of themselves, others, and the community around them. A world where they can navigate, imagine, and feel inspired—over and over again. Sponsored by CONNECT with Amanda Davis Website | Instagram | Twitter | Facebook The post KidLit RADIO: StoryMakers with Amanda Davis 30,000 STITCHES appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit RADIO: Read Out Loud PING MEETS PANG

  Listen

  Jul 30 2021

  Ping and Pang are very different creatures. The way they look and act couldn’t be further apart. Is it possible, though, that they might have way more in common than they think? Find out on this podcast episode of Read Out Loud as author/illustrator Mary Jane Begin shares her new picture book, PING MEETS PANG, a story of otherness, differences, and friendship. ABOUT THE BOOK Ping and Pang are both Pandas, but they don’t look a thing like one another and that’s a problem. Each maintains they possess the true qualities of being a Panda; the correct color, the size and shape of their ears, the even fluffiness of their tails. It is only when they realize what they have in common do they slowly appreciate each other’s differences. The analogy to today’s political and racial climate points to acceptance of the other side’s differences and finding common ground. PING MEETS PANG is an educational tool. It is an allegory about inclusiveness and acceptance of “the other” told through two pandas. The story is meant to spark discussions about multiculturalism and body positivity, and inspire the protection and conservation of pandas. Includes conversation starters for further instruction and participation! WATCH PIND MEETS PANG Read Out Loud! HERE {"@context":"http:\/\/schema.org\/","@id":"https:\/\/www.kidlit.tv\/2021\/07\/kidlit-radio-read-out-loud-ping-meets-pang\/#arve-youtube-ibxg4yeakbe6422838f6a521142143516","type":"VideoObject","embedURL":"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/iBXg4YEAKBE?feature=oembed&iv_load_policy=3&modestbranding=1&rel=0&autohide=1&playsinline=0&autoplay=0&enablejsapi=1","name":"Read Out Loud PING MEETS PANG by Mary Jane Begin","thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/i.ytimg.com\/vi\/iBXg4YEAKBE\/hqdefault.jpg","uploadDate":"2021-07-30T07:00:39+00:00","author":"KidLit TV","description":"Ping and Pang are very different creatures. The way they look and act couldn't be further apart. Is it possible, though, that they might have way more in common than they think? Find out on this podcast episode of Read Out Loud as author\/illustrator Mary Jane Begin shares her new picture book, PING"} Invite Mary Jane Begin to your School! Click HERE! About Mary Jane Begin Mary Jane is an award-winning illustrator and author of numerous children’s books, and professor in the Illustration Department at Rhode Island School of Design. She’s also the Chair of Illustration in the M.F.A for Children’s Literature at Hollins University. Her previous books include A MOUSE TOLD HIS MOTHER and LITTLE MOUSE’S PAINTING. Mary Jane recently won the prestigious Big Xin Children’s Literature Award in China for her book, Willow Buds; the Tale of Toad and Badger. She has received awards from the Society of Illustrators, Awards of Excellence from Communications Arts, and the Critici Erba Prize at the Bologna Book Fair as well as the Erma Simonton Black Award from the Bank Street College. CONNECT WITH Mary Jane Begin Website | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest   The post KidLit RADIO: Read Out Loud PING MEETS PANG appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit RADIO: Parry Gripp IT’S RAINING TACOS!

  Listen

  Jul 29 2021

  It may be sunny where you are, but at KidLit TV HQ IT’S RAINING TACOS!! LISTEN to this podcast of the NEW KidLit MTV show featuring Emmy-winning, song-writing superstar Parry Gripp! ? Learn about the NEW book based on his smash hit song ? IT’S RAINING TACOS! About the Book Wildly fun and full of laugh-out-loud antics, this interactive sing-along is a zany romp sure to capture fans of Giraffes Can’t Dance and Dragons Love Tacos. Shell we dance? Taco-bout irresistible! Jam out to the catchy, toe-tapping tune “Raining Tacos” from YouTube sensation Parry Gripp, featuring everyone’s favorite treat! This spec-taco-ular, goofy song, with new, never-before-sung lyrics, is perfect for sharing, so grab a few friends—young or old—and get ready to crunch your way to a good time! It’s raining tacos, from out of the sky. Tacos, no need to ask why. Just open your mouth and close your eyes. It’s raining tacos! WATCH KidLit MTV with Parry Gripp HERE! {"@context":"http:\/\/schema.org\/","@id":"https:\/\/www.kidlit.tv\/2021\/07\/kidlit-radio-parry-gripp-its-raining-tacos\/#arve-youtube-2hqys7if5546422838f6cc38870428704","type":"VideoObject","embedURL":"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/2hQys7if554?feature=oembed&iv_load_policy=3&modestbranding=1&rel=0&autohide=1&playsinline=0&autoplay=0&enablejsapi=1","name":"KidLit MTV with Parry Gripp IT'S RAINING TACOS!","thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/i.ytimg.com\/vi\/2hQys7if554\/hqdefault.jpg","uploadDate":"2021-07-29T07:00:16+00:00","author":"KidLit TV","description":"It may be sunny where you are, but at KidLit TV HQ IT'S RAINING TACOS!! LISTEN to this podcast of the NEW KidLit MTV show featuring Emmy-winning, song-writing superstar Parry Gripp! ?\u00a0Learn about the NEW book\u00a0based on his smash hit song\u00a0? IT\u2019S RAINING TACOS! About the Book Wildly fun and full of lau"} Send Parry a drawing or video of your pet! (He might just use it in one of his songs!) Download Sheet Music and More from Parry HERE! About Parry Gripp Parry Gripp is an Emmy-winning songwriter and recording artist, whose best-known works include “Raining Tacos;” songs for Netflix’s “Ask The StoryBots;” and theme songs for Disney’s “The 7D,” The Cartoon Network’s “Ben 10: Omniverse,” and Marvel’s “The Super Hero Squad Show.” He was series composer for Disney’s “The 7D” and has also written songs for Disney’s “Phineas & Ferb” (where he appeared as a special guest), Netflix’s “Emily’s Wonder Lab,” Hallmark’s “Hoops & Yoyo” television specials, Amazon’s “Lily The Unicorn,” and an animal video series for National Geographic Kids. Gripp maintains a highly popular YouTube music channel, with over 600,000 subscribers and 350 million views, featuring children’s favorites such as “Raining Tacos,” “Space Unicorn,” “Do You Like Waffles?,” “Baby Monkey (Going Backwards on A Pig),” and numerous others. His YouTube videos were featured in Ricky Gervais’ Netflix series “Derek.” Actor Christoph Waltz portrayed a hamster in a sketch to Gripp’s song “Hamster On A Piano” on Jimmy Kimmel’s 2014 post Academy Awards show. For nearly a decade, Gripp created and recorded songs for Wawa’s popular “Hoagiefest” advertising campaign. His other advertising work includes songs for Hasbro’s “Elefun and Friends” ads, including “Hungry Hungry Hippos,” “Chasing Cheeky,” and more. Gripp’s first children’s book “Somebunny Loves Me” was published by National Geographic Kids with an accompanying song and video. His next book is in the works with a projected publication date of 2021. Older fans might recognize Gripp’s style in the theme song to “Buffy The Vampire Slayer” which he wrote and recorded with his band Nerf Herder. Connect with Parry Gripp Website | Facebook | YouTube Connect with Peter Emmerich Website | Twitter | Instagram The post KidLit RADIO: Parry Gripp IT’S RAINING TACOS! appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit RADIO: Read Out Loud WHAT WOULD YOU WISH FOR?

  Listen

  Jul 28 2021

  In this PODCAST episode of Read Out Loud, author David Sable reads WHAT WOULD YOU WISH FOR? a story that inspires us to make the world a more hopeful and peaceful place. ABOUT THE BOOK What Would You Wish For? guides readers young and old through an imaginative, inspirational journey to think about how they can change the world for good. The heartfelt and thought-provoking text encourages children to be kind. Rich, whimsical illustrations help girls and boys realize the potential each person has to make the world a more hopeful and more peaceful place. 100% of the author’s royalties are being donated to UNICEF USA. What Would You Wish For? features: -An inspiring story that will encourage children of all ages, but particularly children ages 4–8, to make the world a more hopeful and peaceful place -Whimsical, thought-provoking text by David Sable, Senior Advisor at WPP, the world’s largest company dedicated to Creative Transformation and formerly Global CEO of Y&R -Beautiful illustrations by Emma Yarlett, (whose work has been selected by Amazon.com and Huffington Post as one of the best picture books of 2015, winner of the Sheffield Bok Award 2017, Oxfordshire Book Award 2017, Stockport Picture Book Award 2017, and nominated for the Kate Greenaway Medal 2017) WATCH David’s Read Out Loud HERE! {"@context":"http:\/\/schema.org\/","@id":"https:\/\/www.kidlit.tv\/2021\/07\/kidlit-radio-read-out-loud-what-would-you-wish-for\/#arve-youtube-ensaasnrfyq6422838f6e9fa156217376","type":"VideoObject","embedURL":"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/ENSaasnRFYQ?feature=oembed&iv_load_policy=3&modestbranding=1&rel=0&autohide=1&playsinline=0&autoplay=0&enablejsapi=1","name":"Read Out Loud WHAT WOULD YOU WISH FOR?","thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/i.ytimg.com\/vi\/ENSaasnRFYQ\/hqdefault.jpg","uploadDate":"2021-07-28T07:00:42+00:00","author":"KidLit TV","description":"In this PODCAST episode of Read Out Loud, author David Sable reads WHAT WOULD YOU WISH FOR? a story that inspires us to make the world a more hopeful and peaceful place. ABOUT THE BOOK What Would You Wish For? guides readers young and old through an imaginative, inspirational journey to think about"} ABOUT David Sable Entrepreneur and global social activist, David is dedicated to changing the world for good. Former Global CEO of Y&R, one of the world’s leading global marketing communications companies. He is known for his creativity, content, strategic innovation, and impactful partnerships. A leading industry thought leader and early digital pioneer, David is a regular contributor to LinkedIn and is a sought-after keynote and inspirational speaker. David was selected as both a Top 20 Must-Know Global Influencer by LinkedIn, and as a Top 10 Most Generous Marketing Geniuses by Fast Company. Passionate about giving back he serves on the boards of the Special Olympics, UNICEF, and UNCF, and in the commercial world is on the board of directors of American Eagle Outfitters. World traveler. Gamer. Diehard Doors fan. Grandfather. Hippie at heart. ABOUT Emma Yarlett Emma Yarlett is an award-winning author, illustrator, and typographer. Emma’s picture books have achieved global success, won numerous awards, and been adapted into theatrical plays and other media. Emma lives in Falmouth, Cornwall with her husband, Alex, and daughter, Beatrix. Sponsored by CONNECT WITH David Website | Twitter | Facebook The post KidLit RADIO: Read Out Loud WHAT WOULD YOU WISH FOR? appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit RADIO: Read Out Loud PAOLO, EMPEROR OF ROME

  Listen

  Jul 27 2021

  In this KidLit Radio podcast, Mac Barnett reads Paola, Emperor of Rome! Buon giorno! Longing, freedom, adventure, pizza — have we got a story for you! While taking a trip abroad may not be possible because of Covid this summer, on this episode of Read Out Loud, author Mac Barnett takes us on a whirlwind tour of the Eternal City in PAOLO: EMPEROR OF ROME. Join brave Paolo as he discovers all that Rome has to offer a little dog with big dreams. ABOUT THE BOOK A daring dog takes a whirlwind tour of Rome in search of freedom in new picture book from beloved storyteller Mac Barnett and masterful illustrator Claire Keane Paolo the dachshund is trapped. Though he lives in Rome, a city filled with history and adventure, he is confined to a hair salon. Paolo dreams of the sweet life—la dolce vita—in the Eternal City. And then, one day, he escapes! Paolo throws himself into the city, finding adventure at every turn. Join our hero as he discovers the wonders of Rome: the ruins, the food, the art, the opera, and—of course—the cats. Readers will cheer the daring of this bighearted dog, whose story shows that even the smallest among us can achieve great things. Watch Mac’s Read Out Loud HERE! {"@context":"http:\/\/schema.org\/","@id":"https:\/\/www.kidlit.tv\/2021\/07\/kidlit-radio-read-out-loud-paolo-emperor-of-rome\/#arve-youtube-0pqlbecrqhu6422838f70536611105389","type":"VideoObject","embedURL":"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/0PQlBEcrqhU?feature=oembed&iv_load_policy=3&modestbranding=1&rel=0&autohide=1&playsinline=0&autoplay=0&enablejsapi=1","name":"Read Out Loud at Home with Mac Barnett PAOLO, EMPEROR OF ROME","thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/i.ytimg.com\/vi\/0PQlBEcrqhU\/hqdefault.jpg","uploadDate":"2021-07-27T07:00:17+00:00","author":"KidLit TV","description":"In this KidLit Radio podcast, Mac Barnett reads Paola, Emperor of Rome! Buon giorno! Longing, freedom, adventure, pizza \u2014 have we got a story for you! While taking a trip abroad may not be possible because of Covid this summer, on this episode of Read Out Loud, author Mac Barnett takes us on a whirl"} ABOUT Mac Barnett Mac Barnett is a New York Times-bestselling author of stories for children. His work has been translated into more than 30 languages and sold more than 2 million copies worldwide. Mac’s books have won many prizes, including two Caldecott Honors, three New York Times/New York Public Library Best Illustrated Awards, three E.B. White Read Aloud Awards, the Boston Globe–Horn Book Award, Germany’s Jugendliteraturpreis, China’s Chen Bochui International Children’s Literature Award, and Italy’s Premio Orbil. Mac lives in Oakland, California. CONNECT WITH Mac Barnett Website | Twitter | Instagram The post KidLit RADIO: Read Out Loud PAOLO, EMPEROR OF ROME appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit RADIO: StoryMakers with Yehudi Mercado

  Listen

  Jun 07 2021

  On this KidLit RADIO podcast, Rocco chats with illustrator Yehudi Mercado, creator of the middle-grade graphic novel, FUN FUN FUN WORLD, a story about a ragtag group of aliens who conquer the earth — or do they? Watch Yehudi on StoryMakers! Click Here to Learn How to Draw Captain Minky! Are you ready for some FUN, FUN, FUN? We are! Join illustrator Yehudi Mercado, creator of the middle-grade graphic novel, FUN FUN FUN WORLD, and learn how to draw Captain Minky only on KidLit TV’s Ready Set Draw!  We’d love to add your artwork to the Ready Set Draw Art Gallery! Post your paintings on our KidLit TV Facebook page OR use the hashtag #ReadySetDraw on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter so we can find you! We can’t wait to see what you’ve made! ABOUT THE BOOK The Devastorm 5 is an alien warship whose prime directive is to seek out planets to invade and conquer in tribute to the almighty Alien Queen. The only problem is that the crew of Devastorm 5 is the worst in the fleet. In a last-ditch effort to be taken more seriously, the Devastrom 5 crew vows to conquer Earth once and for all. Ground zero for operation “Conquer Earth” is a defunct amusement park called Fun Fun Fun World, overrun by cats and hiding a major secret. Will the crew of the Devastorm 5 be able to complete their mission? ABOUT YEHUDI MERCADO Yehudi Mercado is a former pizza delivery driver and Disney art director living in Los Angeles. From award-winning animated short films to cowriting and art directing the Guardians of the Galaxy mobile game, Yehudi has worked in various media for over 15 years. His creator-owned comics include Buffalo Speedway, Pantalones, TX, Rocket Salvage, Sci-Fu, and Hero Hotel. Sponsored by ONI PRESS CONNECT WITH Yehudi Website | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram   The post KidLit RADIO: StoryMakers with Yehudi Mercado appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit RADIO: LAUGH IT UP! with Marvin Terban

  Listen

  Mar 24 2021

  On this KidLit Podcast, listen to this “how-to” joke book that not only tells you lots of very funny jokes, it shows you how to make up jokes of your own! Now you can be the life of every party! Watch Marvin’s LAUGH IT UP! ABOUT the Book Why did the farmer spray his chickens with perfume? Because he couldn’t stand the FOWL smell! What do you get if you cross a cow and two ducks? Milk and QUACKERS! Why do you wear two pairs of pants to play golf? In case you get a HOLE IN ONE! Have you ever wondered what makes jokes like these funny? It’s wordplay, of course! With this book, you’ll discover the secret to cracking jokes using homonyms, idioms, and double meanings. Before long, you’ll be able to turn everyday words into sidesplitting jokes! ABOUT Marvin Marvin Terban is a longtime teacher and best-selling children’s book author. Called a “master of children’s wordplay” by ALA Booklist and “Mr. English for Kids” by the Children’s Book-of-the-Month Club, he has written over thirty-nine books for young readers and teachers, most of them about the English language. He is Scholastic’s “Professor Grammar.” He was born in Massachusetts and got his start as an author with a book that he wrote and drew in the first grade about a fuzzy green dragon. His first writing job was a weekly column for his local newspaper when he was in high school. He was also the editor of his high school newspaper and literary magazine. He and his wife Karen live in New York City across from a park and have two children and two grandchildren. His grandchildren live in the country and have a dog named Nacho and two pet pigs in their backyard named Pickles and Eileen. Marvin loves to be a teacher and an author, read, take walks in Central Park, go to movies and shows, travel to places around the world, meet his readers at school visits, and best of all, spend time with his family and friends. Sponsored by Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Pinterest CONNECT WITH Marvin Website | FacebookCONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook Group | Facebook Page | Instagram | Newsletter | Pinterest | Twitter | YouTube Executive Producer: Julie Gribble  The post KidLit RADIO: LAUGH IT UP! with Marvin Terban appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit RADIO: StoryMakers with Duncan Tonatiuh

  Listen

  Mar 23 2021

  On this KidLit RADIO podcast, Rocco & award-winning author/illustrator Duncan Tonatiuh chat about Duncan’s unique illustration style which is inspired by Pre-Columbian art and about how his stories honor the past, but are relevant to children now, like his new book SOLDIER FOR EQUALITY: JOSÉ DE LA LUZ SÁENZ AND THE GREAT WAR. Watch Duncan on StoryMakers! ABOUT THE BOOKS SOLDIER FOR EQUALITY: JOSÉ DE LA LUZ SÁENZ AND THE GREAT WAR José de la Luz Sáenz (1888–1953)—or Luz—believed in fighting for what was right. Although he was born in the United States, he and his family experienced prejudice because of their Mexican heritage. When World War I broke out, Luz volunteered to join the fight. Because of his ability to quickly learn languages, he became part of the Intelligence Office in Europe. However, despite his hard work and intellect, Luz often didn’t receive credit for his contributions. Upon his return to the US, he joined other Mexican-Americans whom he had met in the army to fight for equality. His contribution, along with others, ultimately led to the creation of the League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC), which is the oldest Latino civil rights organization. Soldier for Equality is based in part on Luz’s diary during the war. It includes a biography of Luz’s later years, an author’s note, a timeline, a bibliography, and an index. UNDOCUMENTED is the story of immigrant workers who have come to the United States without papers. Every day, these men and women join the workforce and contribute positively to society. The story is told via the ancient Mixtec codex—accordion fold—format. Juan grew up in Mexico working in the fields to help provide for his family. Struggling for money, Juan crosses over into the United States and becomes an undocumented worker, living in a poor neighborhood, working hard to survive. Though he is able to get a job as a busboy at a restaurant, he is severely undercompensated—he receives less than half of the minimum wage! Risking his boss reporting him to the authorities for not having proper resident papers, Juan risks everything and stands up for himself and the rest of the community. ABOUT Duncan Duncan Tonatiuh (toh-nah-tee-YOU) is the author-illustrator of The Princess and the Warrior, Funny Bones, Separate Is Never Equal, Pancho Rabbit and the Coyote, Diego Rivera: His World and Ours and Dear Primo. He is the illustrator of Esquivel! and Salsa. His books have received multiple accolades, among them the Pura Belpré Medal, the Sibert Medal, The Tomás Rivera Mexican-American Children’s Book Award, The Américas Award, the Jane Addams Children’s Book Award and the New York Times Best Illustrated Children’s Book Award. Duncan Tonatiuh is both Mexican and American. He grew up in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico and graduated from Parsons School of Design in New York City. His artwork is inspired by Pre-Columbian art, particularly that of the Mixtec codex. His aim is to create images and stories that honor the past, but that are relevant to people, especially children, nowadays. ABOUT ABRAMS BOOKS ABRAMS BOOKS FOR YOUNG READERS publishes picture books and illustrated nonfiction for preschool through middle-grade readers. Some highlights of this award-winning children’s line include Library Mouse; Rosie Revere, Engineer; I Am Yoga; Animalia; Babar’s Museum of Art; Separate Is Never Equal; Maritcha; and 365 Penguins. CONNECT WITH Duncan Website | Facebook | Twitter CONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook Group | Facebook Page | Instagram |Newsletter | Pinterest | Twitter | YouTube Executive Producer: Julie Gribble  The post KidLit RADIO: StoryMakers with Duncan Tonatiuh appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit RADIO: NONFICTION MINUTE | CLIMATE CHANGE: Here’s Some Evidence

  Listen

  Mar 22 2021

  KidLit RADIO and iNK Think Tank’s NONFICTION MINUTE! Nonfiction Minute Podcasts: CLIMATE CHANGE: Here’s Some Evidence Climate change is in the air, the sea, and the minds of scientists. What is it really about? How urgent is the problem? Can it be stabilized? Read more and find out! Climate Change: The Facts and the Consequences by Dorothy Hinshaw Patent Hopping Ahead of Climate Change by Sneed B. Collard, III The Earth’s Emergency Heat Valve: The Hurricane by Vicki Cobb Copyright ©2019, iNK Think Tank, Inc. CONNECT WITH iNK Think Tank NONFICTION MINUTE Facebook | Newsletter | Pinterest | Twitter  | Website CONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook Group | Facebook Page | Instagram | Newsletter | Pinterest | Twitter | YouTube The post KidLit RADIO: NONFICTION MINUTE | CLIMATE CHANGE: Here’s Some Evidence appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit RADIO: MARY HAD A LITTLE GLAM Read Out Loud

  Listen

  Mar 22 2021

  “More pink, more beads, more shine!” Mary is a little bit extra in all the right ways, but as every fashionista must learn, sometimes less is more. Join Vanessa Brantley Newton on this podcast episode of Read Out Loud as she reads, MARY HAD A LITTLE GLAM. ABOUT THE BOOK This little Mary has STYLE! In this fun take on Mother Goose, fashion-forward Mary helps some of childhood’s most beloved characters go glam. From the kid who lives in a shoe (and dons some fab footwear, too) to Jack, who breaks his crown but gets a great new one, Mary’s school friends look fantastic in their finery. But are they now too well dressed for recess? Not to worry—Mary always shows her flair for what to wear!   Watch Vanessa’s Read Out Loud Episodes! CONNECT WITH VANESSA Website | Facebook  CONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook Group | Facebook Page | Instagram | Newsletter | Pinterest | Twitter | YouTube The post KidLit RADIO: MARY HAD A LITTLE GLAM Read Out Loud appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit RADIO: Read Out Loud THE CRAYON MAN

  Listen

  Mar 21 2021

  Before the invention of Crayola crayons, most children could only draw in black or white! In this episode of Read Out Loud on KidLit RADIO, author Natascha Biebow reads the colorful, true story of inventor Edwin Binney, THE CRAYON MAN! Watch Natascha’s READ OUT LOUD! THE CRAYON MAN, winner of the Bank Street Irma Black Award for Excellence in Children’s Literature! DOWNLOAD these FREE activities and coloring sheets! ABOUT the Book Celebrating the inventor of the Crayola crayon! This gloriously illustrated picture book biography tells the inspiring story of Edwin Binney, the inventor of one of the world’s most beloved toys. A perfect fit among favorites like The Day the Crayons Quit and Balloons Over Broadway. Purple mountains’ majesty, mauvelous, jungle green, razzmatazz…what child doesn’t love to hold a crayon in their hands? But children didn’t always have such magical boxes of crayons. Before Edwin Binney set out to change things, children couldn’t really even draw in color. Here’s the true story of an inventor who so loved nature’s vibrant colors that he found a way to bring the outside world to children – in a bright green box for only a nickel! With experimentation, and a special knack for listening, Edwin Binney and his dynamic team at Crayola created one of the world’s most enduring, best-loved childhood toys – empowering children to dream in COLOR! Natascha Biebow (author) Steven Salerno (Illustrator) ABOUT Natascha Biebow I don’t go anywhere without a book (or usually books), in my purse, in my backpack, tucked in the crook of my arm – IN CASE. Here’s a secret: my greatest fear is being stranded somewhere without a book . . .I was the kind of child who read everything – my dad’s newspaper, the cereal box, the signs on the street. I was born in Johannesburg and grew up in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, where I went to the American school. The kids who went there were from all over the world! Most of the books I owned when I was growing up were sent to me for birthdays and Christmases by my grandmother, Granelly, who lived in England. These were treasures that I read up in the bougainvillea tree, where I had a secret perch and no one would disturb me for hours. I woke up early, and read until my family finally got out of bed. I made my mom read The Little Match Girl by Hans Christian Andersen over and over again – it made me cry, it was so beautiful. I loved Judy Blume’s Fudge series, Julie of the Wolves, the Narnia books and lots of horse books, including Black Beauty and Misty of Chincoteague. Now, I love to read picture books with my son (and the dog!). ABOUT Steven Salerno New York City-based illustrator, children’s book author/illustrator, and character designer, Steven Salerno creates striking illustrations for a wide range of editorial and advertising clients. His style flexes between the graphically simple and whimsical, to more realistic, richly textured images, with some having a retro feel. Over his long independent graphics career, he has created thousands of published illustrations for a list of nearly 600 clients for use in print & web advertising, magazines, newspapers, product packaging, picture books, corporate publications, and retail graphics. CONNECT WITH Natascha Website | Facebook CONNECT WITH Steven Website | Facebook CONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook Group | Facebook Page | Instagram | Newsletter | Pinterest | Twitter | YouTube The post KidLit RADIO: Read Out Loud THE CRAYON MAN appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit RADIO: NO PEACOCKS! Read Out Loud

  Listen

  Mar 20 2021

  In this episode of KidLit RADIO, listen to Robin Newman read NO PEACOCKS! If sunflower seeds were all you were allowed to eat for breakfast, lunch, AND dinner, you might get fed up too! On this episode of Read Out Loud join author Robin Newman as she tells the story of Phil, Jim, and Harry — three peacocks on a mission for mac ‘n cheese — in NO PEACOCKS! Watch Robin Read NO PEACOCKS! Here’s a treat for you: The NO PEACOCKS! activity guide! ABOUT THE BOOK Every day, Phil, Jim, and Harry are fed sunflower seeds by the staff who care for them at The Cathedral Church of St. John the Divine. But one day, they decide they’re sick of them. They make a break for the New York City streets in search of pizza or Chinese But everywhere they go, they’re told “No peacocks!” So they try to get an ooey, gooey, delicious meal closer to home. But how are they going to sneak into the school’s dining hall and get their wings on the school’s world-famous mac ‘n cheese? A little plotting, some stolen disguises, and help from the students, and mission mac ‘n cheese is a go! Will the peacocks finally get their mac ‘n cheese? Or will their cover be blown, forcing them to fly the coop? Inspired by the real-life beloved, celebrity birds living on the grounds of The Cathedral Church of St. John the Divine, and brought to the page in bold, bright style, No Peacocks! is a hilarious romp and a perfect read-aloud. ABOUT ROBIN Raised in New York and Paris, Robin is a graduate of Bryn Mawr College and the City University of New York School of Law. She’s been a practicing attorney and legal editor, but she prefers to write about witches, mice, pigs, and peacocks. She’s a member of the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators, National Writing Project’s Writers Council, and the Bank Street Writers Lab. She lives in New York with her husband, son, goldfish, and two spoiled English Cocker Spaniels. ABOUT CHRIS I am an illustrator and concept artist currently working in games and animation. I have an idea, I draw it, rinse and repeat. CONNECT WITH Robin Facebook | Twitter | Website CONNECT WITH Chris Twitter | Website CONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook Group | Facebook Page | Instagram | Newsletter | Pinterest | Twitter | YouTube Executive Producer: Julie Gribble  The post KidLit RADIO: NO PEACOCKS! Read Out Loud appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit RADIO: NOAH NOASAURUS Read Out Loud

  Listen

  Mar 20 2021

  On this podcast episode of Read Out Loud, author Elaine Kiely Kearns reads from her debut book, NOAH NOASAURUS! Watch Elaine’s READ OUT LOUD! About the Book Noah Noasaurus woke up feeling very No. No to brushing his teeth. No to eating breakfast. And definitely No to playing with his little brother. Things only get worse when Noah goes for a walk and relentlessly cheerful Toby Rex, Brian Brontosaurus, and Ava Ceratops follow him. Together, the group starts a bona fide dino parade that even Noah can’t resist. This lighthearted, whimsical story will have readers laughing along at Noah and his friends—as well as at their own bad moods. About Elaine Elaine Kiely Kearns writes picture books and middle-grade stories. Armed with a master’s degree in education, she also scours the internet for golden nuggets of information about children’s writing for the website she founded, KidLit411.com. Her debut picture book NOAH NOASAURUS (Albert Whitman) illustrated by Colin Jack will hit bookshelves this spring, 2019. She lives in New York with her husband, two beautiful daughters and a menagerie of animals. Find her online at elainekielykearns.com About Colin Colin Jack has illustrated several books for children, including Dragons from Mars, the Galaxy Zack series, 7 Days of Awesome, and If You Happen to Have a Dinosaur. He also works as a story artist and character designer at DreamWorks Studios. He lives in California with his wife and two kids. CONNECT WITH Elaine Website | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter CONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook Group | Facebook Page | Instagram |Newsletter | Pinterest | Twitter | YouTube Executive Producer: Julie Gribble  The post KidLit RADIO: NOAH NOASAURUS Read Out Loud appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KIDLIT RADIO Frank Sileo StoryMakers

  Listen

  Mar 19 2021

  Breathe calm into your family’s life. Learn about meditation and yogic breathing with Dr. Frank Sileo, child psychologist and author of BEE CALM: THE BUZZ ON YOGA, on this episode of KidLit RADIO! Watch Dr. Frank on STORYMAKERS!   ABOUT the Book by Dr. Frank Sileo, illustrated by Clair Keay In this companion book to Bee Still: An Invitation to Meditation, Bentley Bee loves to fly around and visit his friends in the garden. One day, he notices all of them in unusual poses. What could it bee? Bentley’s friends teach him several beginning yoga poses including Mountain, Chair, Airplane, Cobra, and more. Readers will love to follow Bentley and try the poses themselves as he gets buzzing all about yoga in this kid-friendly introduction. Includes a Note to Parents and Caregivers with suggestions for introducing children to yoga, and instructions for the poses in the story. ABOUT Dr. Frank Dr. Sileo is an award-winning author and an active public speaker. His academic and professional career has included broad-based experiences and accomplishments. Dr. Sileo has worked with children, adolescents, and adults in inpatient and outpatient settings. Dr. Frank J. Sileo is a New Jersey licensed psychologist dr frank and is the Founder and Executive Director of The Center for Psychological Enhancement, LLC located in Ridgewood, New Jersey. He received his Doctorate in psychology from Fordham University in New York City. He received his Master of Science degree from Fordham University and his Bachelor’s degree from Iona College in New Rochelle, New York. ABOUT Clair I live in an old market town in Essex called Rayleigh, I work from my small studio at home. Most of my work has been for children’s book publishers in both the UK and the USA but I am spending more time these days on my own projects such as Sherbet Lane.Away from my paintbrushes, you can find me pottering in my garden, taking long rambles in the countryside or shouting my support for The Arsenal from my seat at the Emirates! ABOUT Magination Press In 1987, Magination Press® was created out of a desire to publish innovative books that would help children deal with the many challenges and problems they face as they grow up. Written for ages 4 through 18, these books deal with topics ranging from the everyday — starting school, shyness, normal fears, and a new baby in the house — to more serious problems, such as divorce, attention deficit disorder, depression, serious injury or illness, autism, trauma, death, and much more. Most of our books are written by mental health professionals or those who work closely with them and with children. Our books help children understand their feelings, provide information about the topic or situation, and offer extensive practical coping strategies. A comprehensive Note to Parents is usually included to help guide parents, therapists, social workers, and teachers in using the book. Magination books are not preachy or didactic: They feature sensitive, lively, sometimes humorous writing, along with exquisite, evocative illustrations. They are a pleasure to look at and to read. CONNECT WITH Frank Website | Instagram | Twitter | Facebook CONNECT WITH Clair Website | Instagram | Twitter | Facebook CONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook Group | Facebook Page | Instagram | Newsletter | Pinterest | Twitter | YouTube Executive Producer: Julie Gribble  The post KIDLIT RADIO Frank Sileo StoryMakers appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit RADIO: NONFICTION MINUTE Celebrating Women’s History Month

  Listen

  Mar 19 2021

  KidLit RADIO and iNK Think Tank’s NONFICTION MINUTE! Nonfiction Minute Podcasts: Celebrating Women’s History Month Jan Adkins, iNK’s Explainer General introduces: Susanna Reich—History Happens Everywhere Amy Nathan—Caterpillars to the Rescue Vicki Cobb—Marie Curie: An Elite Player in the Science Game Roxie Munro—Mary Kingsley Copyright ©2019, iNK Think Tank, Inc. CONNECT WITH iNK Think Tank NONFICTION MINUTE Facebook | Newsletter | Pinterest | Twitter  | Website CONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook Group | Facebook Page | Instagram | Newsletter | Pinterest | Twitter | YouTube The post KidLit RADIO: NONFICTION MINUTE Celebrating Women’s History Month appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit RADIO: The Pop Ups!

  Listen

  Apr 06 2020

  Get ready to sing, dance, & draw as KidLit MTV teams up with The Pop Ups! Learn about their new audiobook, JUKEBOX JOYRIDE, and groove along to super-fun tunes! ? When you put the score, sound effects, and ambiance together…you really bring the story to life! We use all these tools to make Jukebox Joyride the most vivid, hilarious journey through time and space we could. – The Pop Ups Watch The Pop Ups on KidLit MTV! ABOUT THE BOOK If you could go back in time to witness any concert from all of history, what would it be? Jimi Hendrix at Woodstock? Mozart in the Salzburg court? The Beatles’ rooftop farewell? Jukebox Joyride follows 12-year-old twins Jules and George on a wild adventure through time. Their Uncle Bob, a renowned ethnomusicologist (he studies music!), has discovered the secret to time travel and is having a ball joyriding through history checking out the best concerts ever…but something’s gone wrong! A sinister force has been unleashed, someone is chasing after Uncle Bob, and the fate of all music hangs in the balance! Now, it’s up to Jules and George to find their uncle before their new rival does! It’s a musical adventure that brings the twins from the birth of jazz in New Orleans to a performance by an 11- year-old Mozart in Vienna, all while trying to make it back to the present day to pass their history test!  Download the book from Audible!  ABOUT THE POP UPS Three-time Grammy nominees, The Pop Ups, are on a mission: to bring “humor, awesomeness, educational utility, and wild creativity to children’s media.” Since launching in 2010, The Pop Ups have produced content for Sesame Workshop, Amazon Music, ABC Mouse, Sirius XM, and Nick Jr. They wrote and recorded the theme song for NPR’s beloved podcast for kids, “Wow in the World”, and are currently developing a TV show with Amazon Studios. They have toured with Yo Gabba Gabba! Live! and headlined the kids’ music stages at Lollapalooza, Austin City Limits, and SXSW. Connect with The Pop Ups! Website | Twitter | Facebook | YouTube CONNECT WITH KidLit TV! Facebook | Instagram  | Pinterest | Twitter | YouTube | Newsletter Executive Producer – Julie Gribble The post KidLit RADIO: The Pop Ups! appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit RADIO: StoryMakers with Becky Flansburg

  Listen

  Mar 30 2020

  On this kid lit podcast episode of StoryMakers, author and Project Manager of Multicultural Children’s Book Day, Becky Flansburg teaches Rocco what it means to go tiny! Does it involve a shrink-ray?! Nope. In real life, like in Becky’s book SISSY GOES TINY, downsizing, repurposing, and “living tiny” mean thinking sustainably and doing more with less. Listen to learn more about this BIG idea.  Watch StoryMakers with Becky Flansburg! ABOUT the Book A diverse picture book about a family that chooses to live Tiny and do More with Less. Eight-year-old Sissy loves her life. She loves her toys, her Big house, and her Big backyard. But when Sissy’s parents decide they are going to live in a Tiny House on wheels and travel around the U.S., Sissy isn’t sure that she will like the idea of “living tiny.” But as she and her mommy and daddy learn about downsizing, repurposing, and how “stuff is just stuff” in a positive way, Sissy soon understands that living Tiny has BIG possibilities; possibilities for all sorts of adventures and learning. ABOUT Becky My name is Becky Flansburg (a.k.a Franticmommy) and I am a full-time freelance writer, accountability coach, home business consultant and project manager. I’ve been flying solo as a work from home pro for almost a decade and I can’t imagine another way of life. I am a dedicated mom to two beautiful kids and this site is filled with laughter and love about the joys parenthood. I am also committed to helping women realize their work-from-home dreams, enjoy life beyond the cubicle and find clarity in the work/life/family balance. As the Project Manager for the non-profit children’s literacy initiative, Multicultural Children’s Book Day, we work tirelessly to raise awareness for the kid’s books that celebrate diversity and to get more of these of books into classrooms and libraries. CONNECT WITH Becky! Website | Instagram | Twitter | FacebookLearn MORE about Multicultural Children’s Books Day Website | Twitter | FacebookCONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook Group | Facebook Page | Instagram | Newsletter | Pinterest | Twitter | YouTube Executive Producer: Julie Gribble  The post KidLit RADIO: StoryMakers with Becky Flansburg appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit RADIO: Read Out Loud BELLO THE CELLO

  Listen

  Mar 24 2020

  On this kid lit podcast, get ready for some musical magic on Read Out Loud! Dennis Mathew reads BELLO THE CELLO, a book that teaches its readers everyone has their own song and that it’s important to remember, it’s not about what you can’t do, but about what you can. Watch BELLO THE CELLO READ OUT LOUD! ABOUT THE BOOK What’s my song? Will I fit in? These are the questions we find a young Cello named Bello asking himself as he tries to navigate the novelties of his first day at school. When inspiration from the magical sounds of his new classmates mixes with the encouragement and the gentle nudge of other whimsical characters, Bello arrives at the discovery of his gift, the magic of his song. CONNECT WITH Dennis Website CONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook Group | Facebook Page | Instagram | Newsletter | Pinterest |  Twitter | YouTube Executive Producer: Julie Gribble  The post KidLit RADIO: Read Out Loud BELLO THE CELLO appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit RADIO: StoryMakers with Kirk Scroggs

  Listen

  Mar 16 2020

  Join Rocco and Kirk for this kid lit podcast of StoryMakers as they chat about THE SECRET SPIRAL OF SWAMP KID! Watch as Kirk gives Rocco a swamp makeover AND learn to draw your own version of Swamp Thing! Watch StoryMakers with Kirk Scroggs THE SECRET SPIRAL OF SWAMP KID Have you ever been caught doodling by your teacher? Well, Kirk Scroggs has many times! In fact, his mom used to get phone calls from school about it all the time! But, Kirk managed to make writing and drawing his superpower! Available from DC COMICS! Draw your own Fan Art from THE SECRET SPIRAL OF SWAMP KID and share it with us on Twitter using #ReadySetDraw. It might just end up being featured on #FanArtFriday!   ABOUT the Book Warning! Unless you have express permission from young Russell Weinwright to access his personal journal, do not read any further. This blurb is strictly off-limits! Seriously, we mean it. Okay, if you are still with us, here is what we can share: Russell is a middle schooler; he excessively doodles in his spiral notebook; he has two best friends, Charlotte and Preston; he is not-so-great at sports, and he is pond scum. Nicknamed “Swamp Kid” by his classmates, Russell has algae for hair, a tree trunk of a right arm, webbed toes, and a parsnip for a thumb. Also, Russell’s favorite meal is sunlight. Also, a frog lives in his arm. In this notebook, Russell details, in both hilarious text and green-tinted illustrations (complete with ketchup stains!), what it’s like to be different, to be comfortable in his own skin (no matter how slimy), to discover his true talents, to avoid the intense stare of Mr. Finneca (his suspicious science teacher), and to find humor in the everyday weird. This is The Secret Spiral of Swamp Kid by writer and illustrator Kirk Scroggs, and you’ll never look at the bayou the same way again. ABOUT Kirk Scroggs Kirk Scroggs was born and raised in Austin, Texas and studied film at the University of Texas. He’s an author-illustrator best known for the Snoop Troop books, It Came from Beneath the Playground, and Attack of the Ninja Potato Clones, as well as the series Tales of a Sixth-Grade Muppet and Wiley & Grampa’s Creature Features. His website is kirkscroggs.com. ABOUT DC COMICS DC Comics, Inc. is an American comic book publisher. It is the publishing unit of DC Entertainment, a subsidiary of Warner Bros. Global Brands and Experiences. DC Comics is one of the largest and oldest American comic book companies.   CONNECT WITH Kirk! Website | Instagram | Twitter | Facebook CONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook Group | Facebook Page | Instagram | Newsletter | Pinterest | Twitter | YouTube Executive Producer: Julie Gribble  The post KidLit RADIO: StoryMakers with Kirk Scroggs appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit RADIO: StoryMakers with Brian Biggs

  Listen

  Oct 09 2019

  Listen up as Rocco and Brian Biggs, creator of Tinyville Town, chat about the eighth book in that series, AT THE FIREHOUSE, on this podcast episode of StoryMakers. Brian tells us how, when writing the book, he toured a real firehouse. Listen to find out what goes on behind the scenes when firefighters aren’t battling blazes! Watch Brian’s STORYMAKERS! ABOUT the Book IN TINYVILLE TOWN: AT THE FIREHOUSE, join Dexter and Firefighter Charlie on a guided tour of the Tinyville Town firehouse. See where the firefighters store their gear, where they eat and rest, and find out what happens when the alarm rings!   ABOUT Brian Biggs Brian was born in Little Rock, Arkansas in 1968, and lived there until he was eleven years old. As a kid, Brian drew things, painted things, built things, and generally made stuff up all the time. This is a picture of Brian at around three years old, after having built a tall thing out of blocks. ABOUT ABRAMS BOOKS ABRAMS BOOKS FOR YOUNG READERS publishes picture books and illustrated nonfiction for preschool through middle-grade readers. Some highlights of this award-winning children’s line include Library Mouse; Rosie Revere, Engineer; I Am Yoga; Animalia; Babar’s Museum of Art; Separate Is Never Equal; Maritcha; and 365 Penguins. CONNECT WITH Brian Website | Twitter | Facebook CONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook Group | Facebook Page | Instagram | Newsletter | Pinterest | Twitter | YouTube Executive Producer: Julie Gribble  The post KidLit RADIO: StoryMakers with Brian Biggs appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit RADIO: GAME CHANGERS Read Out Loud

  Listen

  Oct 06 2019

  Listen up as award-winning author, Lesa Cline-Ransome reads GAME CHANGERS: THE STORY OF VENUS AND SERENA WILLIAMS on this podcast episode of Read Out Loud. Lesa tells the greatest story in tennis — the story of two sisters from humble beginnings who devoted their lives to changing the sport forever and becoming the best players the game has ever seen — together. Watch Lesa’s READ OUT LOUD! ABOUT THE BOOK GAME CHANGERS: THE STORY OF VENUS AND SERENA WILLIAMS by Lesa Cline-Ransome, illustrated by James Ransome Venus and Serena Williams. Two peas in a pod. Best friends. Sisters. Six days a week they awoke before the sun came up to practice their serves and returns, to learn to run faster and hit harder. They were unstoppable. At age fourteen, Venus played her first professional match. Three years later, it was Serena’s turn. It wasn’t easy. Some tennis fans cheered for these two fresh faces, while those who were unhappy to see two black girls competing in a nearly all-white sport booed and taunted them. But they didn’t let it stop them. With vibrant mixed media art, nonfiction superstars Lesa Cline-Ransome and Coretta Scott King Honor winner James E. Ransome share the inspirational story of two tennis legends who were fierce competitors on the courts, but close sisters above all. ABOUT Lesa Cline-Ransome Lesa Cline-Ransome is the writer of many picture books. Her picture book biography titles include Satchel Paige, Major Taylor, Champion Cyclist, Young Pele, Soccer’s First Star, Helen Keller, The World in Her Heart, Before There was Mozart and Words Set me Free: The Story of Young Frederick Douglass. Other titles are Quilt Alphabet, Quilt Counting and her newest is Light in the Darkness, A Story about How Slaves Learned in Secret. Originally from Malden, Massachusetts, Lesa has worked as a proofreader, fashion copywriter, publicist, teacher in the New York City Schools, and taught writing for adults. She has a B.F.A. in Merchandising and Management from Pratt Institute and an M.A. in Education from N.Y.U. She lives in Rhinebeck, New York and with her husband and frequent collaborator, illustrator James Ransome, four children and St. Bernard, Nola. CONNECT WITH Lesa Website | Twitter CONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook Group | Facebook Page | Instagram | Newsletter | Pinterest |  Twitter | YouTube Executive Producer: Julie Gribble  The post KidLit RADIO: GAME CHANGERS Read Out Loud appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit RADIO: What Becomes a Classic? CORDUROY

  Listen

  Aug 22 2019

  Leonard Marcus is back with a new podcast episode of What Becomes a Classic? This time he’s heading to the Museum of the City of New York to meet with Morgen Stevens-Garmon, curator of A City for Corduroy: Don Freeman’s New York. The exhibition marks the 50th anniversary of CORDUROY! Morgen shows us some of Don Freeman’s amazing artwork and offers insight into the way his time in New York City forever shaped his work and storytelling. Watch this episode of What Becomes a Classic? About the Book Don Freeman’s classic character, Corduroy, is even more popular today then he was when he first came on the scene in 1968. This story of a small teddy bear waiting on a department store shelf for a child’s friendship has appealed to young readers generation after generation. About Leonard Leonard’s pathfinding writings and exhibitions have earned him acclaim as one of the world’s preeminent authorities on children’s books and the people who create them. He is the author of more than 20 award-winning biographies, histories, interview collections, and inside looks at the making of children’s literature’s enduring classics. His reviews and commentary have been featured in the New York Times Book Review, Washington Post, The Horn Book, and on numerous radio and television programs including Good Morning America, All Things Considered, PBS NewsHour, BBC Radio 4, CBC As It Happens, Beijing Television, and Radio New Zealand, among others. From The Museum of the City of NY: A CITY FOR CORDUROY: DON FREEMAN’S NEW YORK Best known today as the creator of the lovable teddy bear Corduroy, Don Freeman (1908–1978) spent over 20 years depicting New York City and its residents before becoming a children’s book author. He moved to New York from California in 1928—just shy of his 20th birthday—with little more than a few sketching supplies and a trumpet. Soon he was using his income from trumpet gigs to fund his studies at the famous Art Students League. Freeman sketched everything he saw, wherever he was. His eye was profoundly democratic, embracing the varied characters and street life of New York. He was also a lifelong lover of the stage, and his theater sketches launched his illustration career when his first drawing was published in the New York Herald Tribune’s drama section on October 14, 1928. After the Depression hit, Freeman found work as an artist for the Works Progress Administration’s Federal Art Project. He created his own magazine, Newsstand, to serve as a more personal outlet for his drawings and lithographs of the city. In 1951 Freeman published his first children’s book, co-authored with his wife and fellow artist, Lydia Cooley. Freeman would go on to author and illustrate nearly 40 books for children, including the groundbreaking Corduroy. A City for Corduroy: Don Freeman’s New York documents the artist’s love for his adopted home. Focused on moments of quiet and clamor, drama and humor, Don Freeman illustrated the humanity of the great metropolis—a big place where even a small, stuffed bear can find a friend. CITY LIFE When he first arrived in New York in 1928, Don Freeman eked out a living playing trumpet at night and took classes at the Art Students League during the day. At the League, he studied under famed Ashcan School artist John Sloan, who became a lifelong friend and mentor. He also took his first class on lithography and immediately fell in love with the printing process. Freeman found that “the lithographic medium fitted my temperament to a T-square… it set me to work translating into prints all the random sketches I had gathered about town.” His prints and illustrations were published in The New York Times, Christian Science Monitor, and Life magazine. Freeman was an enthusiastic observer of life in his adopted city. The human drama of New York—its dense streets packed with people—enthralled him, and he wandered the city filling his sketchbooks with what he saw. Every person, no matter their race, age, or economic status, was essential to the beauty of New York. He believed that “Being part of this seething, turbulent, fabulous family [of New Yorkers] was a privilege that brought with it a living proof… that all people could live together if they but would.” Freeman’s paintings, drawings, watercolors, and lithographs capture the city’s still, isolated moments as well as its energy and chaos. STAGE LIFE Don Freeman came to New York to study art, but he could not escape the lure of another early love: the theater. Fascinated by the drama and spectacle of the New York stage, the penniless young artist turned into “a Broadway beachcomber,” searching the sidewalks and lobbies of theaters for ticket stubs that he could use to gain entry during intermission. One night, with the help of a popsicle seller who catered to the chorus during intermission, he slipped backstage. From this special vantage point, he set about capturing moments that were hidden from the audience’s view, revealing the methods behind theater’s magic and the backstage workers who made it possible. After Freeman sold his first theater caricature to the New York Herald Tribune for its Sunday drama section, his drawings started appearing in the New York World, Theatre Magazine, and other publications. He also found work illustrating theatrical posters and programs. “It was almost unbelievable to me that such a privilege could also be a way of earning a living,” he remarked, “seeing the plays and being paid for it at the same time.” Freeman carried his passion for the stage into his later career as a children’s book author. His books Pet of the Met (1953) and Hattie the Backstage Bat (1970) are set in the much-loved spaces he knew so well. CONNECT WITH LEONARD Website | Twitter| Facebook CONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook | Instagram | Newsletter | Pinterest | Twitter | YouTube Executive Producer: Julie Gribble  The post KidLit RADIO: What Becomes a Classic? CORDUROY appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit RADIO: BEE CALM Read Out Loud

  Listen

  Aug 18 2019

  On this podcast episode of Read Out Loud, author Frank Sileo reads from BEE CALM! Brain buzzing? Too busy to bee still? Join Dr. Frank Sileo for Read Out Loud as he shares BEE CALM, an introduction to yoga for kids. So, “Find a quiet place. Do a pose. Take a deep breath and see how it goes!” Watch Frank read BEE CALM! ABOUT the Book by Dr. Frank Sileo, illustrated by Clair Keay In this companion book to Bee Still: An Invitation to Meditation, Bentley Bee loves to fly around and visit his friends in the garden. One day, he notices all of them in unusual poses. What could it bee? Bentley’s friends teach him several beginning yoga poses including Mountain, Chair, Airplane, Cobra, and more. Readers will love to follow Bentley and try the poses themselves as he gets buzzing all about yoga in this kid-friendly introduction. Includes a Note to Parents and Caregivers with suggestions for introducing children to yoga, and instructions for the poses in the story. ABOUT Dr. Frank Dr. Sileo is an award-winning author and an active public speaker. His academic and professional career has included broad-based experiences and accomplishments. Dr. Sileo has worked with children, adolescents, and adults in inpatient and outpatient settings. Dr. Frank J. Sileo is a New Jersey licensed psychologist and is the Founder and Executive Director of The Center for Psychological Enhancement, LLC located in Ridgewood, New Jersey. He received his Doctorate in psychology from Fordham University in New York City. He received his Master of Science degree from Fordham University and his Bachelor’s degree from Iona College in New Rochelle, New York. ABOUT Clair I live in an old market town in Essex called Rayleigh, I work from my small studio at home. Most of my work has been for children’s book publishers in both the UK and the USA but I am spending more time these days on my own projects such as Sherbet Lane.Away from my paintbrushes, you can find me pottering in my garden, taking long rambles in the countryside or shouting my support for The Arsenal from my seat at the Emirates! ABOUT Magination Press In 1987, Magination Press® was created out of a desire to publish innovative books that would help children deal with the many challenges and problems they face as they grow up. Written for ages 4 through 18, these books deal with topics ranging from the everyday — starting school, shyness, normal fears, and a new baby in the house — to more serious problems, such as divorce, attention deficit disorder, depression, serious injury or illness, autism, trauma, death, and much more. Most of our books are written by mental health professionals or those who work closely with them and with children. Our books help children understand their feelings, provide information about the topic or situation, and offer extensive practical coping strategies. A comprehensive Note to Parents is usually included to help guide parents, therapists, social workers, and teachers in using the book. Magination books are not preachy or didactic: They feature sensitive, lively, sometimes humorous writing, along with exquisite, evocative illustrations. They are a pleasure to look at and to read. CONNECT WITH Frank Website | Instagram | Twitter | Facebook CONNECT WITH Clair Website | Instagram | Twitter | Facebook CONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook Group | Facebook Page | Instagram | Newsletter | Pinterest | Twitter | YouTube Executive Producer: Julie Gribble  The post KidLit RADIO: BEE CALM Read Out Loud appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit RADIO: NONFICTION MINUTE STEM and the Sky

  Listen

  May 29 2019

  KidLit RADIO and iNK Think Tank’s NONFICTION MINUTE! Nonfiction Minute Podcasts: STEM and the SKY Luke Skywatcher by Alexandra Siy How Did Building Bikes Help the Wright Brothers Invent the Airplane by Mary Kay Carson Flying Into the Eye of a Storm by Vicki Cobb Copyright ©2019, iNK Think Tank, Inc. CONNECT WITH iNK Think Tank NONFICTION MINUTE Facebook | Newsletter | Pinterest | Twitter  | Website CONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook Group | Facebook Page | Instagram | Newsletter | Pinterest | Twitter | YouTube The post KidLit RADIO: NONFICTION MINUTE STEM and the Sky appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit RADIO: NONFICTION MINUTE Building Great Things!

  Listen

  May 08 2019

  KidLit RADIO and iNK Think Tank’s NONFICTION MINUTE! Nonfiction Minute Podcasts: Building Great Things Jan Adkins, iNK’s Explainer General introduces: How to Interview a Historic Building by Andrea Warren The Artist who Hated Straight Lines by Roxie Munro Proof Positive: Ballyhoo Confirms the Safety of the Brooklyn Bridge by Jan Adkins Copyright ©2019, iNK Think Tank, Inc. CONNECT WITH iNK Think Tank NONFICTION MINUTE Facebook | Newsletter | Pinterest | Twitter  | Website CONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook Group | Facebook Page | Instagram | Newsletter | Pinterest | Twitter | YouTube The post KidLit RADIO: NONFICTION MINUTE Building Great Things! appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KIDLIT RADIO: Alane Adams StoryMakers

  Listen

  Apr 24 2019

  Watch Alane on STORYMAKERS! {"@context":"http:\/\/schema.org\/","@id":"https:\/\/www.kidlit.tv\/2019\/04\/kidlit-radio-alane-adams-storymakers\/#arve-youtube-yahtmvuqcc86422838f874a7416032287","type":"VideoObject","embedURL":"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/YAHtmvuqCc8?feature=oembed&iv_load_policy=3&modestbranding=1&rel=0&autohide=1&playsinline=0&autoplay=0&enablejsapi=1","name":"StoryMakers | Alane Adams","thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/i.ytimg.com\/vi\/YAHtmvuqCc8\/hqdefault.jpg","uploadDate":"2019-04-24T08:00:31+00:00","author":"KidLit TV","description":"Watch Alane on\u00a0STORYMAKERS! Author of THE LEGENDS OF ORKNEY series and the new picture book, THE CIRCUS THEIF, Alane Adams brings the wonderful and fantastic to this podcast episode of StoryMakers! Join Alane and Rocco as they talk magic, Norse mythology, witch folklore, and 1920's circus culture! A"} Author of THE LEGENDS OF ORKNEY series and the new picture book, THE CIRCUS THEIF, Alane Adams brings the wonderful and fantastic to this podcast episode of StoryMakers! Join Alane and Rocco as they talk magic, Norse mythology, witch folklore, and 1920’s circus culture! Alane also shares her insight into the habits that make great writers. Young wordsmiths take note! Watch Alane’s READ OUT LOUD ABOUT Alane I grew up in an old Quaker town called Whittier in Southern California. For college, I attended the University of Southern California where I wanted to be an English major, but my family convinced me to become an accountant so I could help run a family business. I spent the next few decades trying to get back to writing instead of balancing budgets. After leaving the family business in 2008, I started a foundation focusing on global poverty issues, particularly their effect on children. I pursued a Masters Degree in Diplomacy and took several field visits with UNICEF, visiting schools around the world. After seeing the importance of education and literacy in the battle to end extreme poverty, I began to shift the focus of my foundation to improving and supporting literacy efforts. In 2009 I was invited to teach a course on social entrepreneurship at Chapman University and joined the full-time faculty for the next five years. Along the way, my passion for literacy and children came together when my 12-year-old son Alex challenged me to write a book he could read. I began writing the Legends of Orkney book series and haven’t stopped writing since that day. My picture book The Coal Thief is based on stories from my father’s life growing up in Pennsylvania at the turn of the century. I have a new picture book titled The Circus Thief that is available now, and the first book in a spinoff of the Legends of Orkney series, The Blue Witch, is also available now. Having been an avid reader my entire life, books based on mythology have always fascinated me the most. I think it’s the idea of magic and the unlimited potential behind the surreal. Building an entirely new world like the fantastical realm of Orkney in my series has been a wonderful challenge. When I think of stories that don’t involve some element of magic it feels dry and boring. I love characters that are deeply flawed and full of emotions like anger and frustration and a burning desire to understand why it is they are so flawed. There are so many wonderful writers out there that entertain children and adults alike, but my all-time favorite book is River God by Wilbur Smith because it tells such a powerful story of life in ancient Egypt and you can’t help but be swept back to that time and place. When I’m not writing or teaching, I’m out hiking somewhere in the world or hanging out with my three boys who are my greatest joy. Thank you for visiting my page. I hope you enjoy reading these books as much as I enjoyed writing them for you. To learn more about my foundation visit: www.riseupfoundation.org. – Alane Adams CONNECT WITH Alane Adams Website | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter CONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook Group | Facebook Page | Instagram |Newsletter | Pinterest | Twitter | YouTube Executive Producer: Julie Gribble  The post KIDLIT RADIO: Alane Adams StoryMakers appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit RADIO: THE CIRCUS THIEF Read Out Loud

  Listen

  Apr 22 2019

  Ladies and gentlemen! Step right up for a podcast episode of Read Out Loud! Prepare to be transported on an adventure of Big Top proportions! Join Alane Adams for THE CIRCUS THIEF a story of thrills and chills — but most importantly a story where kindness saves the day. Watch Alane’s READ OUT LOUD Watch Alane on STORYMAKERS!   ABOUT Alane I grew up in an old Quaker town called Whittier in Southern California. For college, I attended the University of Southern California where I wanted to be an English major, but my family convinced me to become an accountant so I could help run a family business. I spent the next few decades trying to get back to writing instead of balancing budgets. After leaving the family business in 2008, I started a foundation focusing on global poverty issues, particularly their effect on children. I pursued a Masters Degree in Diplomacy and took several field visits with UNICEF, visiting schools around the world. After seeing the importance of education and literacy in the battle to end extreme poverty, I began to shift the focus of my foundation to improving and supporting literacy efforts. In 2009 I was invited to teach a course on social entrepreneurship at Chapman University and joined the full-time faculty for the next five years. Along the way, my passion for literacy and children came together when my 12-year-old son Alex challenged me to write a book he could read. I began writing the Legends of Orkney book series and haven’t stopped writing since that day. My picture book The Coal Thief is based on stories from my father’s life growing up in Pennsylvania at the turn of the century. I have a new picture book titled The Circus Thief that is available now, and the first book in a spinoff of the Legends of Orkney series, The Blue Witch, is also available now. Having been an avid reader my entire life, books based on mythology have always fascinated me the most. I think it’s the idea of magic and the unlimited potential behind the surreal. Building an entirely new world like the fantastical realm of Orkney in my series has been a wonderful challenge. When I think of stories that don’t involve some element of magic it feels dry and boring. I love characters that are deeply flawed and full of emotions like anger and frustration and a burning desire to understand why it is they are so flawed. There are so many wonderful writers out there that entertain children and adults alike, but my all-time favorite book is River God by Wilbur Smith because it tells such a powerful story of life in ancient Egypt and you can’t help but be swept back to that time and place. When I’m not writing or teaching, I’m out hiking somewhere in the world or hanging out with my three boys who are my greatest joy. Thank you for visiting my page. I hope you enjoy reading these books as much as I enjoyed writing them for you. To learn more about my foundation visit: www.riseupfoundation.org. – Alane Adams CONNECT WITH Alane Adams Website | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter CONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook Group | Facebook Page | Instagram |Newsletter | Pinterest | Twitter | YouTube Executive Producer: Julie Gribble  The post KidLit RADIO: THE CIRCUS THIEF Read Out Loud appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit RADIO: NONFICTION MINUTE Food You Might Not Want to Eat!

  Listen

  Mar 18 2019

  KidLit RADIO and iNK Think Tank’s NONFICTION MINUTE! Nonfiction Minute Podcasts: Food You Might Not Want to Eat Jan Adkins, iNK’s Explainer General introduces Jim Whiting’s “Hard Crackers in Hard Times,” Sara Albee’s “Something’s Rotten in Rome,” and Vicki Cobb’s, “Some Painful Truth” Copyright ©2019, iNK Think Tank, Inc. CONNECT WITH iNK Think Tank NONFICTION MINUTE Facebook | Newsletter | Pinterest | Twitter  | Website CONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook Group | Facebook Page | Instagram | Newsletter | Pinterest | Twitter | YouTube The post KidLit RADIO: NONFICTION MINUTE Food You Might Not Want to Eat! appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit RADIO: CHICKS RULE! Read Out Loud

  Listen

  Feb 24 2019

  Who run the world?! CHICKS! On this kid lit podcast episode of Read Out Loud, join author Sudipta Bardhan-Quallen for CHICKS RULE!, a book you might just want to chant instead of read! When one chick runs into injustice — NO CHICKS ALLOWED!! — she raises a feathered rebellion! Chicks of all colors and talents band together and march finding, in the end, the best way to to make things happen is to do it for themselves and do it together! So, whether you are a cool chick, nerdy chick, quiet chick or wordy chick, say it loud and say it proud, CHICKS RULE! Watch Sudipta’s Read Out Loud here!: ABOUT THE BOOK All in step with wing in wing . . . Chicks can conquer anything! Nerdy Chick has been waiting all day for the Rocket Club meeting. But when she gets there, she finds a disturbing sign tacked to the door: “NO CHICKS ALLOWED!!!” Puzzled, then baffled, then just plain mad, Nerdy Chick sets out to change the rules. Along the way, she meets other chicks who are just like her: passionate and determined. From Soccer Chick to Science Chick and Wordy Chick to Yoga Chick, these chicks aren’t willing to take “NO” for an answer. They rally together, march to the barn at the center of town, and—when they hear “NO” once again—chart their own path forward (or, rather, up, up, and away!). A celebration of girl power and community action, Chicks Rule! is the playful, diverse, victorious anthem chicks everywhere will love. ABOUT Sudipta Bardhan-Quallen Sudipta Bardhan-Quallen never thought she’d grow up to be a writer. As a child, she thought of being a doctor (but she’s afraid of blood), a lawyer (but she doesn’t like losing arguments), a carpenter (but she’s too clumsy), a model (but she likes eating too much), a presidential candidate (but she had a dissolute youth), a UN ambassador (the argument losing thing again)… almost everything but a writer. Using her science background as a springboard, Sudipta began writing nonfiction for children, including Championship Science Fair Projects, Last Minute Science Fair Projects, AIDS, and Autism. She branched out into other nonfiction, including biographies of Franklin Delano Roosevelt and Jane Goodall, and altogether, Sudipta has written 18 non-fiction books for kids. Sudipta visits schools to share her stories and experience and teaches writing to children and adults. She lives in New Jersey with her family and an imaginary pony named Penny. ABOUT Renée Kurilla Renée is a children’s illustrator who loves drawing nature, animals, and working on projects that require a little bit of research. Before transitioning to a full-time freelance career, she was a lead artist at FableVision Studios for nearly 10 years. Her work there has contributed to multiple honors, including the graphic novel ZEBRAFISH (2008), a Junior Library Guild selection, and the Ranger Rick’s Tree House App for the National Wildlife Federation, which won a 2013 Parents’ Choice Award! She currently lives just south of Boston with her illustrator husband Keith Zoo, their fluffy orange cat Timmy, and daughter Zoey. ABOUT ABRAMS BOOKS ABRAMS BOOKS FOR YOUNG READERS publishes picture books and illustrated nonfiction for preschool through middle-grade readers. Some highlights of this award-winning children’s line include Library Mouse; Rosie Revere, Engineer; I Am Yoga; Animalia; Babar’s Museum of Art; Separate Is Never Equal; Maritcha; and 365 Penguins.   CONNECT WITH Sudipta Website | Facebook | Twitter CONNECT WITH Renée Website | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter CONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook Group | Facebook Page | Instagram | Newsletter | Pinterest | Twitter | YouTube Executive Producer: Julie Gribble    The post KidLit RADIO: CHICKS RULE! Read Out Loud appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit RADIO: Sudipta Bardhan-Quallen StoryMakers

  Listen

  Feb 20 2019

  We’re sitting down with author Sudipta Bardhan-Quallen writer of CHICKS RULE! for a special episode of StoryMakers touching on the Girl Power messages in this — to borrow a phrase from Michelle Obama’s appearance at the Grammy Awards — “who run the world” book. Watch Sudipta’s StoryMakers episode HERE!   ABOUT THE BOOK All in step with wing in wing . . . Chicks can conquer anything! Nerdy Chick has been waiting all day for the Rocket Club meeting. But when she gets there, she finds a disturbing sign tacked to the door: “NO CHICKS ALLOWED!!!” Puzzled, then baffled, then just plain mad, Nerdy Chick sets out to change the rules. Along the way, she meets other chicks who are just like her: passionate and determined. From Soccer Chick to Science Chick and Wordy Chick to Yoga Chick, these chicks aren’t willing to take “NO” for an answer. They rally together, march to the barn at the center of town, and—when they hear “NO” once again—chart their own path forward (or, rather, up, up, and away!). A celebration of girl power and community action, Chicks Rule! is the playful, diverse, victorious anthem chicks everywhere will love. ABOUT Sudipta Bardhan-Quallen Sudipta Bardhan-Quallen never thought she’d grow up to be a writer. As a child, she thought of being a doctor (but she’s afraid of blood), a lawyer (but she doesn’t like losing arguments), a carpenter (but she’s too clumsy), a model (but she likes eating too much), a presidential candidate (but she had a dissolute youth), a UN ambassador (the argument losing thing again)… almost everything but a writer. Using her science background as a springboard, Sudipta began writing nonfiction for children, including Championship Science Fair Projects, Last Minute Science Fair Projects, AIDS, and Autism. She branched out into other nonfiction, including biographies of Franklin Delano Roosevelt and Jane Goodall, and altogether, Sudipta has written 18 non-fiction books for kids. Sudipta visits schools to share her stories and experience and teaches writing to children and adults. She lives in New Jersey with her family and an imaginary pony named Penny. ABOUT Renée Kurilla Renée is a children’s illustrator who loves drawing nature, animals, and working on projects that require a little bit of research. Before transitioning to a full-time freelance career, she was a lead artist at FableVision Studios for nearly 10 years. Her work there has contributed to multiple honors, including the graphic novel ZEBRAFISH (2008), a Junior Library Guild selection, and the Ranger Rick’s Tree House App for the National Wildlife Federation, which won a 2013 Parents’ Choice Award! She currently lives just south of Boston with her illustrator husband Keith Zoo, their fluffy orange cat Timmy, and daughter Zoey. ABOUT ABRAMS BOOKS ABRAMS BOOKS FOR YOUNG READERS publishes picture books and illustrated nonfiction for preschool through middle-grade readers. Some highlights of this award-winning children’s line include Library Mouse; Rosie Revere, Engineer; I Am Yoga; Animalia; Babar’s Museum of Art; Separate Is Never Equal; Maritcha; and 365 Penguins. CONNECT WITH Sudipta Website | Facebook | Twitter CONNECT WITH Renée Website | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter CONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook Group | Facebook Page | Instagram | Newsletter | Pinterest | Twitter | YouTube Executive Producer: Julie Gribble    The post KidLit RADIO: Sudipta Bardhan-Quallen StoryMakers appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit RADIO: Fighting and Singing for Social Justice

  Listen

  Feb 18 2019

  Celebrate Black History month with KidLit RADIO and iNK Think Tank’s NONFICTION MINUTE! Nonfiction Minute Podcasts: Fighting and Singing for Social Justice We’re launching another iNK Think Tank podcast to celebrate Black History Month! Jan Adkins, iNK’s Explainer General introduces: THE MOTHER OF THE CIVIL RIGHTS MOVEMENT by Jim Whiting CAUGHT! BY Doreen Rappaport WE SHALL OVERCOME: THE POWER OF A SONG by Amy Nathan Why Is February Black History Month? Edmonia’s Statues Bessie Coleman Episode Title: Fighting and Singing for Social Justice Duration: 10:44 Copyright ©2019, iNK Think Tank, Inc. CONNECT WITH iNK Think Tank NONFICTION MINUTE Facebook | Newsletter | Pinterest | Twitter  | Website CONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook Group | Facebook Page | Instagram | Newsletter | Pinterest | Twitter | YouTube The post KidLit RADIO: Fighting and Singing for Social Justice appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit RADIO: February Is Black History Month!

  Listen

  Feb 04 2019

  Celebrate Black History month with KidLit RADIO and iNK Think Tank’s NONFICTION MINUTE! Nonfiction Minute Podcasts: Compelling True Stories in the Author’s Own Voice iNK Think Tank launches this first podcast to celebrate the beginning of Black History Month! Jan Adkins, iNK’s Explainer General, introduces three Nonfiction Minutes by authors Janus Adams, Cheryl Harness, and Roxie Munro. Why Is February Black History Month? Edmonia’s Statues Bessie Coleman Episode Title:  It’s the Beginning of Black History Month Duration: 9:55 Copyright ©2019, iNK Think Tank, Inc. CONNECT WITH iNK Think Tank NONFICTION MINUTE Facebook | Newsletter | Pinterest | Twitter  | Website CONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook Group | Facebook Page | Instagram | Newsletter | Pinterest | Twitter | YouTube The post KidLit RADIO: February Is Black History Month! appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit RADIO: MAMA’S BELLY Read Out Loud

  Listen

  Jan 08 2019

  On this podcast episode of Read Out Loud, we join author, Kate Hosford, as she reads her beauty of a book, MAMA’S BELLY. Set in a safe world of fairy lights, cable knit jumpers, and woodsy wholesomeness, MAMA’S BELLY explores questions older siblings may have about what life will be like once the new baby comes. The best answer the book gives to ease the minds of young readers is that Mama always has enough love for everyone. Watch Kate’s Episode of Read Out Loud ABOUT THE BOOK MAMA’S BELLY Written by Kate Hosford;illustrated by Abigail Halpin As a curious little girl awaits the arrival of her baby sister, she asks Mama many questions: “Will she have freckles?” “Will I have to share my blanket?” She helps Mama and Dad prepare to meet her little sister, singing her songs and knitting her a new blanket. But the most important part of getting ready is taking care of Mama. When Mama can’t see her toes, she counts to make sure there’s still ten. When Mama’s tired, she draws her a picture and gives her hugs. An honest and gentle exploration of the excitement and anxiety kids feel when welcoming a new family member, Mama’s Belly is ultimately a celebration of motherly (and daughterly) love and a soothing story for older siblings that even with the spotlight on a new baby, there is always enough love for everyone ABOUT Kate Hosford Kate Hosford graduated from Amherst College in 1988 with a degree in English and Philosophy. Before becoming an author, she worked as an elementary school teacher, a social worker, and an illustrator. In 2011 she received her MFA in Writing for children and Young Adults from Vermont College of Fine Arts. Her books are Big Bouffant, Big Birthday, Infinity and Me, Feeding the Flying Fanellis and Other Poems from a Circus Chef, and How the Queen Found the Perfect Cup of Tea. All of these are published by Carolrhoda Books, a division of Lerner publishing. Her book Mama’s Belly is coming out with Abrams on April 15th. ABOUT ABRAMS BOOKS Founded in 1949, ABRAMS was the first company in the United States to specialize in publishing art and illustrated books. Now a subsidiary of La Martinière Groupe, the company continues to publish critically acclaimed and bestselling works in the areas of art, photography, cooking, craft, comics, interior and garden design, entertainment, fashion, and popular culture; children’s books ranging from young adult fiction to picture books to board books. ABRAMS creates and distributes brilliantly designed visual books with the highest production values under the following imprints: Abrams; Abrams ComicArts; Abrams Image; Abrams Press; Abrams Books for Young Readers; Amulet Books; Abrams Appleseed; and a gift and stationery line, Abrams Noterie. ABRAMS also distributes books published by The Vendome Press, V&A Publishing, Tate Publishing, Booth-Clibborn Editions, 5 ContinentsEditions, SelfMadeHero, The Museum of Modern Art, Cameron + Company, Getty Publications, and others. CONNECT WITH KATE HOSFORD Website | Twitter CONNECT WITH ABRAMS BOOKS Website | Twitter | Facebook Page CONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook Group | Facebook Page | Instagram | Newsletter | Pinterest |  Twitter | YouTube The post KidLit RADIO: MAMA’S BELLY Read Out Loud appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit RADIO: A GREYHOUND, A GROUNDHOG Read Out Loud

  Listen

  Jan 06 2019

  On this podcast episode of Read Out Loud, join author, Emily Jenkins as she introduces us to A GREYHOUND, A GROUNDHOG. As she reads, the words of the book, like the two friends, tumble and tangle into a tongue-twist of fun! Watch Emily’s Read Out Loud Episode ABOUT THE BOOK A GREYHOUND, A GROUNDHOG Written by Emily Jenkins; illustrated by Chris Appelhans When a greyhound meets a groundhog, wordplay and crazy antics ensue. The two animals, much like kids, work themselves into a frenzy as they whirl around and around one another. (Around, round hound. Around, groundhog!) The pace picks up (Around and around and astound and astound!), until they ultimately wear themselves out. ABOUT EMILY Emily Jenkins, who sometimes uses the pen name E. Lockhart, is an American writer of children’s picture books, young-adult novels, and adult fiction. She is known best for the Ruby Oliver quartet (which begins with The Boyfriend List), The Disreputable History of Frankie Landau-Banks, and We Were Liars CONNECT WITH EMILY Website | Twitter CONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook Group | Facebook Page | Instagram | Newsletter | Pinterest | Twitter | YouTube The post KidLit RADIO: A GREYHOUND, A GROUNDHOG Read Out Loud appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit RADIO: MONSTER NEEDS A PARTY Read Out Loud

  Listen

  Oct 21 2018

  It’s Monster’s birthday! None of his friends can make it to his party, though — or so they say. Will it be the worst birthday ever? Or is there a surprise waiting at the end of this story? Find out on this podcast episode of Read Out Loud as author, Paul Czajak reads MONSTER NEEDS A PARTY. ABOUT THE BOOK From Mighty Media Press That time of year is finally here: Monster’s birthday has arrived! But when none of his friends can attend his party, it’s up to boy to cheer him up. With pirates, prizes, and playful rhyme, this story is sure to surprise readers until the very last page. Monster Needs a Party is a part of Paul Czajak’s Monster & Me series. Click hereto see more of Boy and Monster’s adventures. Watch Paul’s Episode of Read Out Loud CONNECT WITH PAUL Website Goodreads Twitter CONNECT WITH KIDLIT TV Facebook Group Facebook Page Pinterest Twitter YouTube READ OUT LOUD Executive Producer – Julie Gribble The post KidLit RADIO: MONSTER NEEDS A PARTY Read Out Loud appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit RADIO: MISS RUMPHIUS Read Out Loud

  Listen

  Oct 08 2018

  On this kidlit podcast episode of Read Out Loud, Rocco reads MISS RUMPHIUS! Watch Rocco’s Episode of Read Out Loud   ABOUT THE BOOK MISS RUMPHIUS by Barbara Cooney Alice made a promise to make the world a more beautiful place, then a seed of an idea is planted and blossoms into a beautiful plan. This beloved classic and celebration of nature—written by a beloved Caldecott winner—is lovelier than ever! Barbara Cooney’s story of Alice Rumphius, who longed to travel the world, live in a house by the sea, and do something to make the world more beautiful, has a timeless quality that resonates with each new generation. The countless lupines that bloom along the coast of Maine are the legacy of the real Miss Rumphius, the Lupine Lady, who scattered lupine seeds everywhere she went. Miss Rumphius received the American Book Award in the year of publication. The illustrations have been reoriginated, going back to the original art to ensure state-of-the-art reproduction of Cooney’s exquisite artwork. The art for Miss Rumphius has a permanent home in the Bowdoin College Museum of Art. CONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook | Instagram | Newsletter | Pinterest | Twitter | YouTube Executive Producer: Julie Gribble  The post KidLit RADIO: MISS RUMPHIUS Read Out Loud appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit RADIO: THE LITTLE ENGINE THAT COULD Read Out Loud

  Listen

  Oct 08 2018

  On this kidlit podcast episode of Read Out Loud, Rocco reads THE LITTLE ENGINE THAT COULD! Watch Rocco’s Episode of Read Out Loud! ABOUT THE BOOK THE LITTLE ENGINE THAT COULD by Watty Piper, illustrated by Loren Long Everyone loves The Little Engine That Could, that classic tale of the determined little engine that, despite its size, triumphantly pulls a train full of toys to the waiting children on the other side of a mountain. Now the great Loren Long (OTIS; OF THEE I SING) has brilliantly re-illustrated this classic story, bringing it exuberantly to life for today’s child.   CONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook | Instagram | Newsletter | Pinterest | Twitter | YouTube Executive Producer: Julie Gribble  The post KidLit RADIO: THE LITTLE ENGINE THAT COULD Read Out Loud appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit RADIO: ONCE A MOUSE Read Out Loud

  Listen

  Oct 08 2018

  On this kidlit podcast episode of Read Out Loud, Rocco reads ONCE A MOUSE! Watch Rocco’s Episode of Read Out Loud   ABOUT THE BOOK ONCE A MOUSE by Marcia Brown ONCE A MOUSE is a magical Indian fable that tells the story of a small mouse and a hermit that knows how to change animals into something else. One day the hermit is sitting under a tree when suddenly he sees a little, helpless mouse that is going to be eaten by a cat. The hermit decides to change the mouse into a cat. Later the old man sees the cat afraid of a dog and changes the cat into a dog. The next day the hermit sees a tiger trying to eat the dog and decides to change the dog into a majestic tiger. As the days pass, the majestic tiger begins to think that he is the king of the place and that all the animals must respect him including the old hermit. One day the hermit reminds the tiger that he is really a mouse and that he should not be acting the way he is acting. The tiger feels so angry that he decides to eat the hermit, but he does not know that the old man is able to read thoughts. Finally the hermit changes the tiger back into a mouse and tells him to learn how to take care of himself. CONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook | Instagram | Newsletter | Pinterest | Twitter | YouTube Executive Producer: Julie Gribble  The post KidLit RADIO: ONCE A MOUSE Read Out Loud appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit RADIO: HILDIE BITTERPICKLES NEEDS HER SLEEP Read Out Loud

  Listen

  Oct 04 2018

  Join author Robin Newman for a truly magical podcast episode of Read Out Loud! Hildie Bitterpickles is a little witch with a big problem. Her neighbours are keeping her awake at all hours! What does a witch have to do to get some sleep? Listen to HILDIE BITTERPICKLES NEEDS HER SLEEP to find out. ABOUT THE BOOK Hildie Bitterpickles Needs Her Sleep Written by Robin Newman, illustrated by Chris Ewald Published by Creston Books Hildie Bitterpickles is a witch who needs her sleep. Her quiet neighborhood has been turned upside down with the sudden arrival of the old woman in her shoe, big bad wolf, and other fairy tale characters. What will Hildie have to do to get a quiet night’s sleep? Watch Robin’s Read Out Loud Episode! CONNECT WITH ROBIN NEWMAN Website | Facebook | Twitter CONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook Group | Facebook Page | Instagram | Newsletter | Pinterest | Twitter | YouTube Read Out Loud Executive Producer: Julie Gribble The post KidLit RADIO: HILDIE BITTERPICKLES NEEDS HER SLEEP Read Out Loud appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit RADIO: TOO MUCH! NOT ENOUGH! Read Out Loud

  Listen

  Sep 30 2018

  Look out Bert and Ernie, there’s a new odd couple in town! Moe and Peanut are best friends — when they’re not driving each other crazy! Can they find a way to strike the right balance? Find out on this podcast episode of Read Out Loud as author/illustrator Gina Perry reads TOO MUCH! NOT ENOUGH! Watch Gina read TOO MUCH! NOT ENOUGH! ABOUT THE BOOK TOO MUCH! NOT ENOUGH! by Gina Perry Move over, Bert and Ernie: there’s a new odd couple in town! Exuberant Peanut and steadfast Moe are roommates and best friends . . . most of the time. Peanut is messy. Moe is neat. Peanut is loud. Moe is quiet. Peanut always wants more. Moe always wants a little less. Can these two learn to appreciate their differences? With bright, bold, eye-catching illustrations and two adorable characters, Gina Perry has created a book that will appeal to all the Peanuts and Moes in the world — whether they think it’s too much or not enough! ABOUT GINA Once upon a time, I played with little metal cars in my rock-filled driveway. I listened to old-time mystery radio theater in my room and built yarn canopies between trees. I could never serve the volleyball in gym class but I could draw dragons that leapt off the page. After 13 years of wearing plaid uniforms I went to art school. I graduated from Syracuse University, worked as a compositor in animation, and as an art director creating products for the scrapbooking market. My children inspire me every single day to be creative and do my best. Today I write and illustrate books from my New Hampshire home. I still like yarn, and table tennis is my (only) game. CONNECT WITH GINA Website | Twitter | Facebook CONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook | Instagram | Newsletter | Pinterest | Twitter | YouTube Executive Producer: Julie Gribble  The post KidLit RADIO: TOO MUCH! NOT ENOUGH! Read Out Loud appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit RADIO: THE JUDGE Read Out Loud

  Listen

  Aug 31 2018

  “The truth isn’t always the most likely scenario,” is a maxim taught in law school — and one of which the main character in this winning book should have taken more heed. On this podcast episode of Read Out Loud, Rocco reads a picture book classic from his own collection. Caldecott Honor Book, THE JUDGE, is the story of a very grumpy magistrate who refuses to listen. Don’t worry, he gets his “just dues” in the end. Watch Rocco’s Episode of Read Out Loud ABOUT THE BOOK THE JUDGE Written by Harve Zemach; illustrated by Margot Zemach Anxious prisoner after anxious prisoner approaches the bench and tries to warn of impending danger. The fiery old Judge, impatient with such foolish nonsense, calls them scoundrels, ninnyhammers, and throws them all in jail. But in the end, Justice is done–and the Judge is gone. Head first! Harve Zemach’s cumulative verse tale is so infectious that children won’t be able to avoid memorizing it. And Margot Zemach’s hilarious pictures are brimming with vitality as well as color. ABOUT Margot & Harve Margot Zemach (1931-89) was born in Los Angeles, California. She began illustrating stories by her husband, Harve, in 1959, and their subsequent collaborations led to many enduring children’s books, including The Judge: An Untrue Tale, a Caldecott Honor Book; A Penny a Look, an ALA Notable Book; and Duffy and the Devil, recipient of the Caldecott Medal. CONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook Group | Facebook Page | Instagram | Newsletter | Pinterest | Twitter | YouTube Executive Producer – Julie Gribble Edited by: Ryan Mulhern The post KidLit RADIO: THE JUDGE Read Out Loud appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit RADIO: HOOT & HONK JUST CAN’T SLEEP Read Out Loud

  Listen

  Aug 28 2018

  “Some chicks like day, others like night. Some sleep in the dark, and some in the light…”  As a storm blows in, two eggs fall out of their nests. The chicks hatch and we find Hoot, an adorable owlet, and Honk, a fuzzy gosling, in the wrong nests! Everything is a bit confusing for our little friends as they make their way in this mixed up world. Will they find their way home? Find out in this podcast episode of Read Out Loud, as author/illustrator, Leslie Helakoski, reads her gentle tale, HOOT & HONK JUST CAN’T SLEEP, only on KidLit TV. Watch Leslie’s Episode of Read Out Loud ABOUT THE BOOK HOOT & HONK JUST CAN’T SLEEP By Leslie Helakoski Some chicks like day, others like night. Some sleep in the dark, and some in the light. Hoot, an adorable owlet, and Honk, a fuzzy gosling, have just hatched—but their eggs got switched and now they’re in the wrong nests. Will they find their way home? Leslie Helakoski’s gentle, lilting verse and irresistible illustrations make the perfect bedtime story as they capture two adorable babies exploring the world for the first time. ABOUT LESLIE Leslie Helakoski grew up in south Louisiana. She is the author of Big Chickens (Puffin Books; the Michigan Reads picture book for 2007, Great Lakes Great Books Award and a GLBA finalist) and Woolbur (HarperCollins; a Book Sense pick for 2008, Florida Reading Association Honor Book and nominee for state book awards in nine states). Her other books include Big Chickens Fly the Coop (Puffin Books), The Smushy Bus (Millbrook Press), and Fair Cow (Two Lions). CONNECT WITH LESLIE Website CONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook Group | Facebook Page | Instagram | Newsletter | Pinterest |  Twitter | YouTube The post KidLit RADIO: HOOT & HONK JUST CAN’T SLEEP Read Out Loud appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit RADIO: SEAVER THE WEAVER Read Out Loud

  Listen

  Aug 26 2018

  Visionaries are often misunderstood. Seaver looks up at the night sky and finds inspiration — sparkling squares and hexagons and triangles. The problem is, Seaver is an orb spider and orb spiders only weave round webs. Will anyone see the beauty in his work? On this podcast episode of Read Out Loud join Paul Czajak as he reads SEAVER THE WEAVER. ABOUT THE BOOK From Mighty Media Press Seaver is an orb spider with a sky full of inspiration. His siblings prefer tradition and aren’t afraid to let him know. But Seaver doesn’t mind! He loves his new shapes and isn’t afraid to show them off. Told with quiet charm, this picture book is sure to tangle readers in a web of delight.   Watch Paul’s Episode of Read Out Loud CONNECT WITH PAUL Website Goodreads Twitter CONNECT WITH KIDLIT TV Facebook Group Facebook Page Pinterest Twitter YouTube READ OUT LOUD Executive Producer – Julie Gribble The post KidLit RADIO: SEAVER THE WEAVER Read Out Loud appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit RADIO: WOLFIE THE BUNNY Read Out Loud

  Listen

  Aug 25 2018

  A family of hipster bunnies discover a baby wolf left at their front door. Mom and Dad are smitten. Daughter, Dot, seems to be the only one who sees the issue with a rabbit family taking in a wolf, “He’s going to eat us all up!” Find out what happens of this podcast episode of Read Out Loud when Ame Dyckman reads WOLFIE THE BUNNY. From Little, Brown Books for Young Readers Families of all kinds will delight in this sweet tale of new babies, sibling rivalry, bravery, unconditional love…and veggies! The Bunny family has adopted a wolf son, and daughter Dot is the only one who realizes Wolfie can–and might–eat them all up! Dot tries to get through to her parents, but they are too smitten to listen. A new brother takes getting used to, and when (in a twist of fate) it’s Wolfie who’s threatened, can Dot save the day? Watch Ame’s Read Out Loud Episode!   CONNECT WITH AME Website Facebook Goodreads Twitter CONNECT WITH ZACHARIAH Website Goodreads Tumblr Twitter CONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook Group Facebook Page Newsletter Pinterest Twitter YouTube Read Out Loud Executive Producer: Julie Gribble     The post KidLit RADIO: WOLFIE THE BUNNY Read Out Loud appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit RADIO: SUPERTRUCK Read Out Loud

  Listen

  Aug 24 2018

  Heroes come in all shapes and sizes. Take for example the Clark Kent-like garbage truck, dutifully going about his work-a-day business — UNTIL snow begins to fall. Our average joe is transformed! Meet SUPERTRUCK! Join author Stephen Savage for this SUPER podcast episode of Read Out Loud.     From Roaring Brook Press (Macmillan)  Supertruck, When the city is hit by a colossal snowstorm, only one superhero can save the day. But who is this mysterious hero, and why does he disappear once his job is done? Find out in this snowy tale about a little truck with a very big job, the second of Stephen Savage’s vehicle-based picture books. Watch Stephen’s Episode of Read Out Loud   CONNECT WITH STEPHEN SAVAGE Website Goodreads Instagram Twitter CONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook Group Facebook Page Instagram Newsletter Pinterest Twitter YouTube Read Out Loud Executive Producer: Julie Gribble The post KidLit RADIO: SUPERTRUCK Read Out Loud appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit RADIO: FREDDY THE FROGCASTER AND THE HUGE HURRICANE Read Out Loud

  Listen

  Aug 23 2018

  Ever wondered what it’s like to be a weather person? Meteorologist, Janice Dean created the “Freddy the Frogcaster” series to explain the science of weather to children. On this podcast episode of Read Out Loud, join Janice as she reads FREDDY THE FROGCASTER AND THE HUGE HURRICANE only on KidLit Radio. ABOUT THE BOOK   Freddy the Frogcaster and the Huge Hurricane, Freddy the Frogcaster is tracking the weather at Frog News Network when he realizes a huge hurricane is coming Can the town of Lilypad prepare for the storm in time? Can Freddy report the weather on TV “and” make sure his family and friends are safe? Fox News Meteorologist Janice Dean “The Weather Machine” continues her beloved Freddy the Frogcaster series in this whirlwind adventure that will leave readers with lasting real-life advice on how to prepare for hurricane season.         Watch Janice’s Read Out Loud Episode!   CONNECT WITH JANICE DEAN Facebook Goodreads Twitter CONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook Group Facebook Page Instagram Newsletter Pinterest Twitter YouTube Read Out Loud Executive Producer: Julie Gribble The post KidLit RADIO: FREDDY THE FROGCASTER AND THE HUGE HURRICANE Read Out Loud appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit RADIO: TAKE ME OUT OF THE BATHTUB AND OTHER SILLY DILLY SONGS Read Out Loud

  Listen

  Aug 22 2018

  WARNING! Super-silliness ahead! On this podcast episode of Read Out Loud, song & comedy writer Alan Katz turns some old favourites into zany earworms (like Stinky, Stinky Diaper Change!). Your kids won’t be able to resist as he sings poems from TAKE ME OUT OF THE BATHTUB AND OTHER SILLY DILLY SONGS!!   ABOUT THE BOOK   Take Me Out of the Bathtub and Other Silly Dilly Songs (Illustrated by David Catrow), Remember…  “Take Me Out to the Ballgame” and “I’ve Been Working on the Railroad”? Songwriter and comedy writer extraordinaire Alan Katz has turned those and other old favorites on their ears and created new nonsense songs kids will love. With zany, spirited pictures by illustrator and cartoonist David Catrow, this kooky collection guarantees laughs and plenty of silly dillyness for kids everywhere!           Watch Alan’s Read Out Loud Episode! CONNECT WITH ALAN KATZ Website Goodreads Twitter CONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook Group Facebook Page Instagram Newsletter Pinterest Twitter YouTube Read Out Loud Host: Rocco Staino Executive Producer: Julie Gribble The post KidLit RADIO: TAKE ME OUT OF THE BATHTUB AND OTHER SILLY DILLY SONGS Read Out Loud appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit RADIO: WHERE’S WALRUS? AND PENGUIN? Read Out Loud

  Listen

  Aug 21 2018

  WHERE’S WALRUS? AND PENGUIN? These are the only words in this fabulously fun picture book! Grab a copy and join author/illustrator Stephen Savage for this podcast episode of Read Out Loud as he takes us through the wordless, cat-and-mouse adventure of zoo escapees Walrus and Penguin! Will the zoo keeper find them? ABOUT THE BOOK  Where’s Walrus? And Penguin?: In this sequel to the acclaimed WHERE’S WALRUS?, author Stephen Savage doubles the fun when Walrus escapes the zoo with his mischievous pal, Penguin. Will the zookeeper find them? Or will these clever runaways stay one step ahead disguised as subway riders, baseball players, and even grand opera performers? Hiding in plain sight, they elude the clueless zookeeper until a fly ball at a baseball game leads Walrus and Penguin to a chance encounter with surprising results.   Watch Stephen’s Read Out Loud Episode!   CONNECT WITH STEPHEN SAVAGE Website Goodreads Instagram Twitter CONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook Group Facebook Page Instagram Newsletter Pinterest Twitter YouTube Read Out Loud Executive Producer: Julie Gribble The post KidLit RADIO: WHERE’S WALRUS? AND PENGUIN? Read Out Loud appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit RADIO: PIPER GREEN Read Out Loud

  Listen

  Aug 20 2018

  If you know Piper Green, you’ll know she’s in a bit of a pickle. If you don’t know Piper Green, get ready for fun! On this podcast episode of Read Out Loud, join award-winning voice artist, Tavia Gilbert, as she reads from PIPER GREEN AND THE FAIRY TREE: GOING PLACES, written by Ellen Potter and illustrated by Qin Leng only on KidLit Radio! Watch Tavia’s Read Out Loud Episode ABOUT THE BOOK Piper Green’s class is taking a school trip to China—well, they’re taking a “pretend” trip, on a “pretend” airplane. And when all the kids in the class announce they’ve been on a plane plenty of times, Piper says she has, too. After all, it’s just a pretend trip, right? But when Piper gets chosen to be a flight attendant, her little fib suddenly feels like a very big problem. Could the X-ray vision glasses Piper found in the Fairy Tree help her out? ABOUT Tavia Gilbert Winner of the 2017 Best Female Narrator Audie Award, Tavia Gilbert is a producer, writer, and acclaimed narrator of more than 500 solo, full-cast, and multi-voice audiobooks for virtually every publisher in the industry, and is a proud member of SAG-AFTRA and Actor’s Equity. She is a nine-time Audie nominee, three-time nominee and one-time winner of Voice Arts Awards, and the recipient of 17 Earphones Awards, a ListenUp Award, and three Parent’s Choice Awards. www.taviagilbert.com ABOUT Ellen Potter, Author Ellen Potter is the author of more than ten books, including the bestselling Olivia Kidney series and the award-winning novels Slob, The Kneebone Boy, and The Humming Room. Her most recent series for boys, Otis Dooda: Strange but True, is a Cybils Award nominee. Learn more about Ellen at www.ellenpotter.com. ABOUT Qin Leng, Illustrator Qin Leng was born in Shanghai, and later moved to France then Montreal. She now lives in Toronto with her partner and works as a designer and illustrator. Her father, an artist himself, was a great influence on her. She grew up surrounded by paintings, and it became a second nature for her to express herself through art. CONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook Group | Facebook Page | Instagram | Newsletter | Pinterest | Twitter | YouTube Executive Producer – Julie Gribble The post KidLit RADIO: PIPER GREEN Read Out Loud appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit RADIO: DINNER AT THE PANDA PALACE Read Out Loud

  Listen

  Aug 20 2018

  “Is there room for one more?” This the crucial question in this timely, new podcast episode of Read Out Loud. DINNER AT THE PANDA PALACE is a book about welcoming everyone with open arms and a warm heart. Whether it’s two carsick lions or seven hyenas from afar, “No matter how many. No matter how few. There’s always room at the Panda Palace for you.” Join author, Stephanie Calmenson as she reads her book DINNER AT THE PANDA PALACE! ABOUT THE BOOK DINNER AT THE PANDA PALACE written by Stephanie Calmenson;illustrated by Nadine Bernard Westcott Join one hungry elephant, two carsick lions, three pigs running from a wolf, and dozens of other playful yet famished animals as they swing, bound, and bounce into the Panda Palace for a hearty meal. But when the restaurant is totally full, will Panda make room for one more guest? Watch Stephanie’s Read Out Loud Episode!   ABOUT Stephanie Stephanie Calmenson is the author of many acclaimed books for children. They have been called “marvelous” (“Publishers Weekly”), “lyrical” (“School Library Journal”), and “sweet, funny, and right on the mark” (ALA “Booklist”). Her books include “Dinner at the Panda Palace”, a PBS Storytime Book;  “May I Pet Your Dog?” a Horn Book Fanfare Book; “Ollie’s School Day,” a Children’s Book-of-the-Month Club selection; and “Dozens of Dachshunds: A Counting, Woofing, Wagging Book. CONNECT WITH Stephanie Website | Twitter | Instagram| Facebook   The post KidLit RADIO: DINNER AT THE PANDA PALACE Read Out Loud appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit RADIO: MARTÍ’S SONG FOR FREEDOM Read Out Loud

  Listen

  Aug 19 2018

  MARTÍ’S SONG FOR FREEDOM is the true story of one man’s fight for social justice and the abolishment of slavery in Cuba. On this podcast episode of Read Out Loud, author Emma Otheguy shares the story of Cuban freedom fighter and political activist José Martí in both English and Spanish. It’s a beautiful tale about never giving up when fighting for what you believe in. ABOUT THE BOOK Written by Emma Otheguy; Illustrated by Beatriz Vidal A bilingual biography of José Martí, who dedicated his life to the promotion of liberty, the abolishment of slavery, political independence for Cuba, and intellectual freedom. Written in verse with excerpts from Martí’s seminal work, Versos sencillos.       Watch Emma’s Read Out Loud Episode! CONNECT WITH Emma Website | Twitter CONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook Group | Facebook Page | Instagram | Newsletter | Pinterest |  Twitter | YouTube   The post KidLit RADIO: MARTÍ’S SONG FOR FREEDOM Read Out Loud appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit RADIO: I AM PEACE Read Out Loud

  Listen

  Aug 18 2018

  On this podcast episode of Read Out Loud Susan Verde reads I AM PEACE. ABOUT THE BOOK Written by Susan Verde; illustrated by Peter H. Reynolds When the world feels chaotic, find peace within through an accessible mindfulness practice from the bestselling picture-book dream team that brought us I Am Yoga. Express emotions through direct speech. Find empathy through imagination. Connect with the earth. Wonder at the beauty of the natural world. Breathe, taste, smell, touch, and be present.       Watch Susan’s Read Out Loud Episode! CONNECT WITH Susan Verde Website | Twitter CONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook Group | Facebook Page | Instagram | Newsletter | Pinterest |  Twitter | YouTube The post KidLit RADIO: I AM PEACE Read Out Loud appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit RADIO: BEFORE SHE WAS HARRIET Read Out Loud

  Listen

  Aug 17 2018

  On this very special podcast edition of Read Out Loud, author Lesa Cline-Ransome reads her award-winning tribute to the amazing life of Harriet Tubman, BEFORE SHE WAS HARRIET. We know her today as Harriet Tubman, but in her lifetime she was called General, Moses, and Minty. Listen to learn more about this woman of humble origins whose courage and compassion changed the lives of those around her, and ultimately the course of history. ABOUT THE BOOK Written by Lesa Cline-Ransome; illustrated by James Ransome A lush and lyrical biography of Harriet Tubman, written in free verse and illustrated by an award-winning artist. We know her today as Harriet Tubman, but in her lifetime she was called by many names. As General Tubman she was a Union spy. As Moses she led hundreds to freedom on the Underground Railroad. As Minty she was a slave whose spirit could not be broken. An evocative poem and opulent watercolors come together to honor a woman of humble origins whose courage and compassion make her larger than life. A Junior Library Guild selection and Coretta Scott King honor book.       Watch Lesa’s Read Out Loud Episode! CONNECT WITH Lesa Website | Twitter CONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook Group | Facebook Page | Instagram | Newsletter | Pinterest |  Twitter | YouTube The post KidLit RADIO: BEFORE SHE WAS HARRIET Read Out Loud appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit RADIO: LOST AND FOUND CAT: THE TRUE STORY OF KUNKUSH’S INCREDIBLE JOURNEY Read Out Loud

  Listen

  Aug 16 2018

  Hear the amazing, true story behind LOST AND FOUND CAT: THE TRUE STORY OF KUNKUSH’S INCREDIBLE JOURNEY, as told by photojournalist and author, Doug Kuntz. Learn about the refugee family who would do anything to find the pet cat they carried from Iraq to Greece while fleeing the war. A moving podcast episode of Read Out Loud. ABOUT THE BOOK When an Iraqi family is forced to flee their home, they can’t bear to leave their beloved cat, Kunkush, behind. So they carry him with them from Iraq to Greece, keeping their secret passenger hidden away. But during the crowded boat crossing to Greece, his carrier breaks and the frightened cat runs from the chaos. In one moment, he is gone. After an unsuccessful search, his family has to continue their journey, leaving brokenhearted. A few days later, aid workers in Greece find the lost cat. Knowing how much his family has sacrificed already, they are desperate to reunite them with the cat they love so much. A worldwide community comes together to spread the word on the Internet and in the news media, and after several months the impossible happens—Kunkush’s family is found, and they finally get their happy ending in their new home. This remarkable true story is told by the real people involved, with the full cooperation of Kunkush’s family.   Watch Doug’s Read Out Loud Episode! CONNECT WITH DOUG AND AMY Website | Twitter CONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook Group | Facebook Page | Instagram | Newsletter | Pinterest | Twitter | YouTube The post KidLit RADIO: LOST AND FOUND CAT: THE TRUE STORY OF KUNKUSH’S INCREDIBLE JOURNEY Read Out Loud appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit RADIO: MARLO Read Out Loud

  Listen

  Aug 15 2018

  Allow author/illustrator Christopher Browne to take you away to a magical underwater world as he talks us through the gorgeous illustrations of (the nearly-wordless) MARLO on this podcast episode of Read Out Loud. ABOUT THE BOOK A glorious, mostly wordless picture book about a dog who needs a bath—and finds much more than that—by phenomenal debut author/illustrator Christopher Browne, who was inspired by his own rescue dog. This lush picture book launches readers into a world of imagination: a glorious underwater adventure with seas of brilliantly colored fish, shadowy predators, and two friends who long to be reunited. With a clever seek-and-find element on each spread, there are treasures to be pored over again and again.         Watch Christopher’s Read Out Loud Episode!   CONNECT WITH Christopher Website | Twitter CONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook Group | Facebook Page | Instagram | Newsletter | Pinterest | Twitter | YouTube   The post KidLit RADIO: MARLO Read Out Loud appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit RADIO: TEA WITH OLIVER Read Out Loud

  Listen

  Aug 13 2018

  Oliver is not like other cats. He likes cookies and tea and just wants a friend to share them with — even if the friend he finds happens to be a mouse! On this podcast episode of Read Out Loud, join Mika Song as she reads TEA WITH OLIVER. ABOUT THE BOOK Oliver is not like other cats. He likes cookies and tea and just wants a friend to share them with. Philbert is the shy mouse who lives under Oliver’s couch. He tries to get Oliver’s attention by writing him notes, but Oliver doesn’t notice little Philbert. When a full-on cat party erupts at Oliver’s apartment, brave Philbert decides this is his big chance to finally introduce himself to Oliver. Watch Mika’s Read Out Loud Episode! CONNECT WITH MIKA SONG Website | Twitter | Instagram  CONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook Group | Facebook Page | Instagram | Newsletter | Pinterest | Twitter | YouTube The post KidLit RADIO: TEA WITH OLIVER Read Out Loud appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit RADIO: STONE SOUP Read Out Loud

  Listen

  Aug 13 2018

  One order of stone soup, please — to go! On this podcast episode of Read Out Loud, Rocco reads STONE SOUP by Marcia Brown! Download and serve it up in the car, on the beach, in the park — anywhere! Watch Rocco’s Read Out Loud Episode ABOUT THE BOOK Clever soldiers outwit greedy townspeople with the creation of a special soup in this cherished classic, a Caldecott Honor book. First published in 1947, this picture book classic has remained one of Marcia Brown’s most popular and enduring books. This story, about three hungry soldiers who outwit the greedy inhabitants of a village into providing them with a feast, is based on an old French tale. ABOUT Marcia Brown Marcia Brown has won the Caldecott Medal three times, the only person to do so until David Wiesner in 2007. She is also the winner of the 1977 Regina Medal, a six-time recipient of the Caldecott Honor, and the winner of the 1992 Laura Ingalls Wilder Medal for her lifetime body of work in children’s literature. Brown continued to paint in her studio in California, focusing on Chinese art instead of children’s literature until her death in 2015. CONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook Group | Facebook Page | Instagram | Newsletter | Pinterest | Twitter | YouTube Executive Producer – Julie Gribble Edited by: Ryan Mulhern The post KidLit RADIO: STONE SOUP Read Out Loud appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit RADIO: TAILS Read Out Loud

  Listen

  Aug 12 2018

  “Tails fluffy. Tails stringy. Scaled tails strong and—clingy!” What small child can resist the allure of a swishing tail? On this podcast episode of Read Out Loud join Matthew Van Fleet as he reads his tale, TAILS. ABOUT THE BOOK TAILS — Tails are irresistible to toddlers, and in Matthew Van Fleet’s sturdy touch-and-feel board book, preschool-age pokers and prodders can finally tug to their heart’s content. Engaging, cartoonish animals from tigers to pangolins romp across the pages as the rhyming text bounces along: “Tails fluffy, / Tails stringy, / Scaled tails strong and—clingy!” Pull tabs, lift-able flaps, tufts of fur, and even a scratch-and-sniff skunk tail provide plenty of tactile surprises. Along the way, youngsters will learn about counting, opposites, and how animals use their tails. A tried and true tail-wagger! Watch Matthew’s Read Out Loud Episode! CONNECT WITH MATTHEW VAN FLEET Twitter CONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook Group | Facebook Page | Instagram | Newsletter | Pinterest | Twitter | YouTube   The post KidLit RADIO: TAILS Read Out Loud appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit RADIO: PEDRO GOES BUGGY Read Out Loud

  Listen

  Aug 11 2018

  Do your kids “bug” each other? Find out what happens when Pedro’s little brother releases all the creepy crawlies he has collected for a school project on this podcast episode of Read Out Loud as Fran Manushkin reads her book PEDRO GOES BUGGY. ABOUT THE BOOK PEDRO GOES BUGGY–A school assignment has Pedro collecting bugs, bugs, and more bugs! But what happens when his brother Paco lets them all out?     Watch Fran’s Read Out Loud Episode! CONNECT WITH FRAN MANUSHKIN Twitter CONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook Group | Facebook Page | Instagram | Newsletter | Pinterest | Twitter | YouTube The post KidLit RADIO: PEDRO GOES BUGGY Read Out Loud appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit RADIO: BEACH DAY Read Out Loud

  Listen

  Aug 10 2018

  The journey is often more important than the destination — but what if it’s really hot outside and you are desperate for a swim?! Can friends Sam, Pam, Will and Jill get their acts together and make it to the beach before the day ends?! Join Patricia Lakin as she reads her book, BEACH DAY in front of a live audience! ABOUT THE BOOK BEACH DAY! SUN! Sam, Pam, Will and Jill are hot and sweaty. It’s the perfect day for the beach. And once they’ve put on their swimsuits and packed a picnic lunch, they’re off! But with Sam, Pam, Will and Jill, nothing is as easy as it seems. Will they actually make it to the beach? Illustrated by Scott Nash.     Watch Patricia’s Read Out Day Episode! CONNECT WITH PATRICIA LAKIN Website  CONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook Group | Facebook Page | Instagram | Newsletter | Pinterest | Twitter | YouTube Executive Producer: Julie Gribble    The post KidLit RADIO: BEACH DAY Read Out Loud appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit RADIO: BUBBLEGUM PRINCESS Read Out Loud

  Listen

  Aug 09 2018

  The first lesson of BUBBLEGUM PRINCESS: “The world is a much happier place with bubblegum bubbles in it.” Hear, hear! Join illustrator Lori Hanson on this podcast episode of Read Out Loud as she tells this modern fairy tale inspired by the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge. ABOUT THE BOOK Young lady Katy delights in blowing bubblegum bubbles, a decidedly unladylike habit. Despite opposition, she teaches the kingdom to love bubblegum bubbles as much as she does. Katy, a lively, intelligent, and strong ­willed heroine embarks on an adventure filled with royals, the queen’s favorite dogs:­­ corgis, and tons of bubblegum. A disclaimer worthy of note: Neither HRH Queen Elizabeth II, her corgis, nor any individual associated with the British Royal Family has authorized, sponsored, or otherwise approved of this thoroughly, totally, utterly, and quite unequivocally unauthorized book!     Watch the Read Out Loud Episode! CONNECT WITH LORI HANSON Website | Instagram CONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook Group | Facebook Page | Instagram | Newsletter | Pinterest | Twitter | YouTube The post KidLit RADIO: BUBBLEGUM PRINCESS Read Out Loud appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit RADIO: COLOR DOG Read Out Loud

  Listen

  Aug 08 2018

  Twenty different puppy breeds — what do they all have in common? Mischief! See the world through their eyes as author Matthew Van Fleet reads and shares the secrets behind the making of COLOR DOG! This podcast episode of Read Out Loud was recorded in front of a live audience on Governors Island! ABOUT THE BOOK In Matthew Van Fleet’s captivating multiconcept book, COLOR DOG, twenty breeds of capering canines demonstrate action words, opposites, synonyms, and more. Cleverly designed pull tabs and flaps plus ten pettable textures provide interactive treats that will have the whole family arfing along from start to surprising finish. Bow-WOW!   Watch Matthew’s Read Out Loud Episode! CONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook Group | Facebook Page | Instagram | Newsletter | Pinterest | Twitter | YouTube The post KidLit RADIO: COLOR DOG Read Out Loud appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit RADIO: PEG + CAT: THE PENGUIN PROBLEM Read Out Loud

  Listen

  Aug 07 2018

  The Animal Winter Games are swinging into gear at the South Pole, but there is one minor issue: the Penguins keep crashing into everything! It’s “snow” problem — Peg and Cat are there to save the day! Find out how as Jennifer Oxley and Billy Aronson read PEG + CAT: THE PENGUIN PROBLEM on this podcast episode of Read Out Loud. ABOUT THE BOOK Peg + Cat The Penguin Problem Written by Jennifer Oxley & Billy Aronson Peg and Cat are at the South Pole preparing to watch the ski race at the Animal Winter Games. Suddenly they spy the Penguins zooming downhill. CRASH! The Penguins keep slamming into things So they all try again, with Peg shouting directions each time they come to a hurdle. “Go over Go under Go in between ” But the Penguins still have no clue, because they don t know what over, under, and in between mean. Luckily, Cat points out some directional arrows to follow! Watch the Read Out Loud Episode! CONNECT WITH BILLY ARONSON Website | Facebook CONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook Group | Facebook Page | Instagram | Newsletter | Pinterest | Twitter | YouTube Read Out Loud Executive Producer: Julie Gribble The post KidLit RADIO: PEG + CAT: THE PENGUIN PROBLEM Read Out Loud appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit RADIO: MY AWESOME SUMMER BY P. MANTIS Read Out Loud

  Listen

  Aug 06 2018

  “June 2…I ate one of my brothers. Ok, maybe two.” You may have guessed, this isn’t just any diary. Listen to Paul Meisel’s book MY AWESOME SUMMER BY P. MANTIS on this podcast edition of Read Out Loud. You might never look at this popular, garden mini-beast the same way again! ABOUT THE BOOK ABOUT THE BOOK “May 17: I was born today! It’s a beautiful, sunny spring day!” This is the diary of P. Mantis, one of 150 brothers and sisters born on a garden bush. P. Mantis is an amazing insect: she can make herself look like a stick to hide from predators, she can swivel her head all the way around, and when she’s grown up, she’ll even be able to fly! Told in dated entries, P. Mantis describes the entirety of her life, sharing the fun and beauty of her world as well its little ups and downs (“I ate one of my brothers. Okay, maybe two.”). With bold, beautiful art and a text both humorous and scientifically accurate, My Awesome Summer by P. Mantis introduces young children to the life cycle of a familiar insect.   Watch Paul’s Read Out Loud Episode! CONNECT WITH PAUL MEISEL Website | Twitter CONNECT WITH KidLit TV  Facebook Group | Facebook Page | Instagram | Newsletter | Pinterest | Twitter | YouTube The post KidLit RADIO: MY AWESOME SUMMER BY P. MANTIS Read Out Loud appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit RADIO: CROCODILES, CAMELS AND DUGOUT CANOES Read Out Loud

  Listen

  Aug 05 2018

  History! Biography! Geography! Oh, my! Get ready for high adventure in this podcast episode of Read Out Loud as Bo Zaunders reads one story from CROCODILES, CAMELS AND DUGOUT CANOES, a collection of true stories detailing the exploits of eight daring people who refused to say no to their dreams. ABOUT THE BOOK Bo Zaunders, Author;  Roxie Munro, Illustrator Exciting segments from the adventures of eight travelers who followed their dreams, regardless of setbacks and sometimes insurmountable obstacles. A pre-Darwinian naturalist who trampled barefoot through the snake-infested jungles of South America; a nineteenth-century Swedish engineer who set out for the North Pole in a gas-filled balloon; and a Victorian woman who, after a sheltered life in a London suburb, pursued a fish and fetish mission in West Africa. These are just a few of the intrepid travelers whose exploits are dramatically evoked in this fascinating book. Bo Zaunders and Roxie Munro have brought together people of rare individual initiative and sketched their stories from diaries, letters, and books. As success is not necessarily a gauge of valor, their quests do not always turn out as they hoped. What really matters is how they dealt with unexpected, often desperate situations. Their stories make for compelling, even spellbinding reading. Roxie Munro’s vigorous art, full of personality, is the perfect accompaniment to the blend of courage and eccentricity represented here. An effortless combination of geography, history, and biography, this book again proves what lovers of nonfiction already know: that true-life stories can be as rich, as elucidating, and as gripping to read as any fiction.     Watch Bo’s Read Out Loud Episode! CONNECT WITH BO ZAUNDERS Website CONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook Group | Facebook Page | Instagram | Newsletter | Pinterest | Twitter | YouTube The post KidLit RADIO: CROCODILES, CAMELS AND DUGOUT CANOES Read Out Loud appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit RADIO: HATCH! Read Out Loud

  Listen

  Aug 04 2018

  Can you guess whose eggs these are? Join author/illustrator Roxie Munro as she reads her book, HATCH!, which is full of unbelievable facts about birds. Do you know which bird builds nests that can weigh as much as a car? Or which bird sleeps on the water with one eye open? Find out on this podcast episode of Read Out Loud! Watch Roxie’s Read Out Loud Episode! CONNECT WITH ROXIE MUNRO Website | Facebook | LinkedIn | Pinterest | Twitter CONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook Group | Facebook Page | Instagram | Newsletter | Pinterest |  Twitter | YouTube Read Out Loud Executive Producer: Julie Gribble The post KidLit RADIO: HATCH! Read Out Loud appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit RADIO: R IS FOR ROCKET Read Out Loud

  Listen

  Aug 03 2018

  Ah, the wondrous, mighty, gorgeous alphabet! On this podcast episode of Read Out Loud, Rocket and his animal pals go on a journey from A to Z while introducing listeners to art and nature. Join Tad Hills as he reads R IS FOR ROCKET. ABOUT THE BOOK R Is for Rocket: An ABC Book – Learn the ABCs with Rocket, the dog who inspires kids to read and write! This irresistible alphabet book from the creator of the New York Times bestsellers How Rocket Learned to Read and Rocket Writes a Story is sure to appeal to kids, parents, teachers, and librarians. From finding acorns, to balancing on a ball, to offering a cookie and a crayon to a crow, readers will love exploring the wonderful world of Rocket and his friends. The whole cast is featured, among them the little yellow bird, the owl, Bella the squirrel, and more. Even Goose from the beloved and bestselling Duck & Goose books makes a cameo appearance! With charming and delightful scenes for every letter, here’s an ode to the wondrous, mighty, gorgeous alphabet.     Watch Tad’s Read Out Loud Episode! CONNECT WITH TAD HILLS Website Goodreads Instagram Twitter CONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook Group Facebook Page Instagram Newsletter Pinterest Twitter YouTube Read Out Loud Executive Producer: Julie Gribble The post KidLit RADIO: R IS FOR ROCKET Read Out Loud appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit RADIO: LITTLE ELLIOT, BIG CITY Read Out Loud

  Listen

  Aug 02 2018

  Life is tough when you are little in the big city. Amid the hustle and bustle, Little Elliot learns that when small creatures work together they can do great things. Listen to Mike Curato read LITTLE ELIOT, BIG CITY on this podcast episode of Read Out Loud. ABOUT THE BOOK From Macmillan Children’s Publishing Group Join the sweetest little elephant on his big adventures! Amid the hustle and bustle of the big city, the big crowds and bigger buildings, Little Elliot leads a quiet life. In spite of the challenges he faces, Elliot finds many wonderful things to enjoy–like cupcakes!Your Little Elliot, Big City experience can be twice as sweet when you download the Little Elliot, Big City activity kit here!  Watch Mike’s Read Out Loud Episode! CONNECT WITH MIKE CURATO Website (Mike Curato) Website (Little Elliot) Facebook Goodreads Instagram Twitter CONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook Group Facebook Page Newsletter Pinterest Twitter YouTube Read Out Loud Executive Producer: Julie Gribble The post KidLit RADIO: LITTLE ELLIOT, BIG CITY Read Out Loud appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit RADIO: EMMA AND JULIA LOVE BALLET Read Out Loud

  Listen

  Aug 01 2018

  Though outwardly they live very different lives, ballet is the thread that ties Emma and Julia’s stories together. Hear how as author/illustrator Barbara McClintock reads EMMA AND JULIA LOVE BALLET on this podcast episode of Read Out Loud. Don’t forget your tutu! ABOUT THE BOOK Emma and Julia Love Ballet Written and illustrated by Barbara McClintock Published by Scholastic Press Emma is little. Julia is big. They both love ballet. Emma takes ballet lessons. So does Julia. Emma is learning to be a ballerina. Julia is a professional ballerina. They are both excited about the big performance in the theater tonight. Emma will be watching from the audience. Julia will be dancing onstage! And afterwards, Emma will go backstage to meet her ballet hero! Barbara McClintock’s richly illustrated, heartwarming story is sure to become a perennial favorite. Watch Barbara’s Read Out Loud Episode! CONNECT WITH BARBARA McCLINTOCK Website CONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook Group | Facebook Page | Instagram | Newsletter | Pinterest | Twitter | YouTube Read Out Loud Executive Producer: Julie Gribble  The post KidLit RADIO: EMMA AND JULIA LOVE BALLET Read Out Loud appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit RADIO: CHICKEN SOUP WITH RICE Read Out Loud

  Listen

  Aug 01 2018

  Even at the height of summer, we can’t help but think, “All seasons of the year are nice, for eating chicken soup with rice.” On this podcast edition of Read Out Loud, join our own Rocco Staino for a romp through Maurice Sendak’s classic picture book, CHICKEN SOUP WITH RICE. ABOUT THE BOOK Chicken Soup with Rice: A Book of Months Written and illustrated by Maurice Sendak Published by HarperTrophy Collected in this charming book are twelve lilting rhymes and illustrations for the twelve months of the year, with chicken soup as their universal theme. Although the book starts in the middle of winter — presumably the best time for chicken soup — a case is made for the presence of chicken soup in every season. Even at the peak of the sultry summer: In August / it will be so hot / I will become / a cooking pot / cooking soup of course / Why not? / Cooking once / cooking twice / cooking chicken soup / with rice. In this tiny volume, first published in 1962, the inimitable Maurice Sendak demonstrates his famous ear for language, rhythm, and wordplay and anticipates the strengths of his later children’s classics such as Where the Wild Things Are and In the Night Kitchen. Likewise, his illustrations here in Chicken Soup with Rice are, as always, playful and witty. Each rhyme is introduced with a decorative bar, framing the name of each month like a calendar. And by the “year’s end,” readers are convinced that all seasons / of the year / are nice / for eating / chicken soup / with rice!  An excellent read-aloud, demonstrating the progression of the year, seasons, and the power of poetry. Watch the Read Out Loud Episode! CONNECT WITH ROCCO STAINO Instagram | Twitter CONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook Group | Facebook Page | Instagram | Newsletter | Pinterest | Twitter | YouTube Read Out Loud Executive Producer: Julie Gribble The post KidLit RADIO: CHICKEN SOUP WITH RICE Read Out Loud appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit RADIO: THE GOODBYE BOOK Read Out Loud

  Listen

  Jul 16 2018

  Goodbyes can be really tough. They’re full of complex emotions that can be hard to express. If your little one is struggling, we have just the thing. Listen together to this podcast episode of Read Out Loud as author/illustrator, Todd Parr, reads THE GOODBYE BOOK. ABOUT THE BOOK The Goodbye Book Written and illustrated by Todd Parr Published by Little, Brown Books for Young Readers Todd Parr, author of It’s Okay to Be Different, has carved out a niche for himself as “the feelings man” of picture books, and it’s not hard to see why. In glossy, color-saturated pages, we’re introduced to a small fish who’s lost its companion. As the fish goes through many reactions to the loss, the text is directed straight at the reader, giving permission for all sorts of feelings: “You might be very sad. / You might be very mad.” The art is simple and naïve, as though Parr loaded up Paint on his computer and started clicking away. With its accessible style and kindhearted text, The Goodbye Book will serve kids as a sympathetic friend during trying times. Watch Todd’s Read Out Loud Episode! CONNECT WITH TODD PARR Website | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | YouTube CONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook Group | Facebook Page | Instagram | Newsletter | Pinterest | Twitter | YouTube Read Out Loud Executive Producer: Julie Gribble The post KidLit RADIO: THE GOODBYE BOOK Read Out Loud appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit RADIO: THE TRUE STORY OF THE THREE LITTLE PIGS Read Out Loud

  Listen

  Jul 16 2018

  A. Wolf gets a bad wrap. He’s not so big and bag — AND he can explain about that three little pig situation — if you just give him a chance. On this podcast episode of Read Out Loud Jon Scieszka reads THE TRUE STORY OF THE THREE LITTLE PIGS. Don’t miss it or we will huff and we will puff and we will…. ABOUT THE BOOK The True Story of the Three Little Pigs Written by Jon Scieszka, illustrations by Lane Smith Published by Viking Books for Young Readers You may think you know the story of the Three Little Pigs and the Big Bad Wolf – but only one person knows the real story. And that person is A. Wolf. His tale starts with a birthday cake for his dear old granny, a bad head cold and a bad reputation. The rest (as they say) is history. With over two million copies sold, The True Story of the Three Little Pigs remains as funny and irreverent as the inventive minds of Jon Scieszka and Lane Smith. Watch Jon’s Read Out Loud Episode! CONNECT WITH JON SCIESZKA Website | Facebook | Twitter CONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook Group | Facebook Page | Instagram | Newsletter | Pinterest | Twitter | YouTube Read Out Loud Executive Producer: Julie Gribble   The post KidLit RADIO: THE TRUE STORY OF THE THREE LITTLE PIGS Read Out Loud appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit RADIO: I’M GOING TO GIVE YOU A BEAR HUG Read Out Loud

  Listen

  Jul 16 2018

  With everything going on in the world, we could all use a hug. Luckily, on this podcast episode of Read Out Loud, KidLit icon, Caroline Cooney reads, I’M GOING TO GIVE YOU A BEAR HUG. It’s a book which offers “a gasp for air, knock over a chair hug,” which seems just about the right strength for us. ABOUT THE BOOK I’m Going to Give You a Bear Hug! Written by Caroline B. Cooney, illustrated by Tim Warnes Whether it’s a big bear, gasp for air, knock over a chair hug or a wet and drippy, slimy, slippy fish hug, children will giggle their way through all the imaginative examples. Cooney’s sweet and simple rhymes encourage playful interaction between parent and child and ultimately help them wind down before they snuggle into bed and drift off to sleep. Watch Caroline’s Read Out Loud Episode! CONNECT WITH CAROLINE COONEY Website | Facebook CONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook Group | Facebook Page | Instagram | Newsletter | Pinterest | Twitter | YouTube Read Out Loud Executive Producer: Julie Gribble The post KidLit RADIO: I’M GOING TO GIVE YOU A BEAR HUG Read Out Loud appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit RADIO: WHAT PET SHOULD I GET? Read Out Loud

  Listen

  Jul 15 2018

  “Make up your mind!” is the refrain in this Dr. Seuss Special podcast edition of Read Out Loud. But how?! There are so many wonderful creatures to choose from in WHAT PET SHOULD I GET? the decision becomes dizzying!  ABOUT THE BOOK What Pet Should I Get? Written and illustrated by Dr. Seuss Published by Random House Books for Young Readers This previously never-before-seen picture book by Dr. Seuss about making up one’s mind is the literary equivalent of buried treasure. What happens when a brother and sister visit a pet store to pick a pet? Naturally, they can’t choose just one. The tale captures a classic childhood moment, choosing a pet and uses it to illuminate a life lesson: that it is hard to make up your mind, but sometimes you just have to do it. Told in Dr. Seuss’s signature rhyming style, this is a must-have for Seuss fans and book collectors, and a perfect choice for the holidays, birthdays, and happy occasions of all kinds. An Editor’s Note at the end discusses Dr. Seuss’s pets, his creative process, and the discovery of the manuscript and illustrations for What Pet Should I Get? Watch the Read Out Loud Episode! CONNECT WITH ROCCO STAINO Website | Instagram | Twitter CONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook Group | Facebook Page | Instagram | Newsletter | Pinterest | Twitter | YouTube Read Out Loud Executive Producer: Julie Gribble The post KidLit RADIO: WHAT PET SHOULD I GET? Read Out Loud appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit RADIO: LOVE YOU, HUG YOU, READ TO YOU Read Out Loud

  Listen

  Jul 14 2018

  Something you might not know about author, Tish Rabe, is that she trained as an opera singer! She often sings for her family, and on this podcast episode of Read Out Loud, we are lucky enough to have her to sing for us. Relax and listen as she brings the words of her book, LOVE YOU, HUG YOU, READ TO YOU, to life through song. ABOUT THE BOOK Love You, Hug You, Read to You! Written by Tish Rabe, illustrated by Frank Enderby Published by Random House Books for Young Readers, Board Books There are three things I’ll always do … love you, hug you, read to you. The simple promise of togetherness offered in this board book is enhanced by interactive prompts throughout, encouraging parents to engage with their child while reading. Studies show that asking questions, like the ones in this book, helps children learn to read faster than if they just listen to a story. Love and literacy are gifts we can give to our children every day Also available as bilingual (Spanish and English) edition entitled ¡Te amo, te abrazo, leo contigo! Te amo, te Abrazo, leo contigo!/Love You, Hug You, Read to You! Written by Tish Rabe, illustrated by Frank Enderby Published by Random House Books for Young Readers, Board Books ¡Te amo, te Abrazo, Leo Contigo!/Love You, Hug You, Read to You! is a bi-lingual book written in both Spanish and English. Studies have shown that asking children’s questions about what’s happening in a book helps them learn to read faster than if they just sit and listen to a story so this book features interactive questions in both languages. It also offers the opportunity for Spanish speakers to learn English and English speakers to learn Spanish! Watch Tish’s Read Out Loud Episode! CONNECT WITH TISH RABE Website | Facebook | Twitter | YouTube CONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook Group | Facebook Page | Instagram | Newsletter | Pinterest | Twitter | YouTube Read Out Loud Executive Producer: Julie Gribble  The post KidLit RADIO: LOVE YOU, HUG YOU, READ TO YOU Read Out Loud appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit RADIO: IT’S OKAY TO MAKE MISTAKES Read Out Loud

  Listen

  Jul 14 2018

  Everyone has “uh-oh” moments. Even grown-ups make mistakes! That’s how we learn. On this podcast episode of Read Out Loud, author Todd Parr reads his reassuring book IT’S OKAY TO MAKE MISTAKES, which reminds us all that great things can come accidentally. ABOUT THE BOOK It’s Okay to Make Mistakes Written and illustrated by Todd Parr Published by Little, Brown Books for Young Readers Todd Parr’s bestselling books have reminded kids to embrace differences, to be thankful, to love one another, and to be themselves. It’s Okay to Make Mistakes embraces life’s happy accidents, the mistakes and mess-ups that can lead to self discovery. Todd Parr brings a timely theme to life with his signature bold, kid-friendly illustrations and a passion for making readers feel good about themselves, encouraging them to try new things, experiment, and dare to explore new paths. From coloring outside the lines and creating a unique piece of art to forgetting an umbrella but making a new friend, each page offers a kid-friendly take on the importance of taking chances, trying new things, and embracing life, mistakes and all. Watch Todd’s Read Out Loud Episode! CONNECT WITH TODD PARR Website | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | YouTube CONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook Group | Facebook Page | Instagram | Newsletter | Pinterest | Twitter | YouTube Read Out Loud Executive Producer: Julie Gribble The post KidLit RADIO: IT’S OKAY TO MAKE MISTAKES Read Out Loud appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit RADIO: THERE WAS AN OLD DRAGON WHO SWALLOWED A KNIGHT Read Out Loud

  Listen

  Jul 14 2018

  As a general rule, it’s not polite to go around swallowing people. The dragon in this podcast episode of Read Out Loud most certainly DID NOT get that memo. Will he ever learn moderation? Find out as Penny Klostermann reads THERE WAS AN OLD DRAGON WHO SWALLOWED A KNIGHT. ABOUT THE BOOK There Was an Old Dragon Who Swallowed a Knight by Penny Parker Klostermann, illustrated by Ben Mantle Published by Random House We all know that there was an old lady who swallowed lots of things. Now meet the old dragon who swallows pretty much an entire kingdom Will he ever learn a little moderation? This rollicking rhyme is full to bursting with sight gags, silly characters, and plenty of burps Parents and kids alike will delight in Ben Mantle’s precisely funny illustrations and in Penny Parker Klostermann’s wacky rhymes. Watch Penny’s Read Out Loud Episode!   CONNECT WITH PENNY PARKER KLOSTERMANN Website | Facebook | Goodreads | Pinterest | Twitter CONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook Group | Facebook Page | Instagram | Newsletter | Pinterest | Twitter | YouTube Read Out Loud Executive Producer: Julie Gribble The post KidLit RADIO: THERE WAS AN OLD DRAGON WHO SWALLOWED A KNIGHT Read Out Loud appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit RADIO: MARIA HAD A LITTLE LLAMA (Bilingual) Read Out Loud

  Listen

  Jul 13 2018

  In this gorgeous, bi-lingual retelling of the classic nursery rhyme, author/illustrator, Angela Dominguez, introduces us to the mountainous countryside of Peru and the people who live there. MARIA HAD A LITTLE LLAMA is a Pura Belpre Honor and a Junior Library Guild Honor book. On this podcast episode of Read Out Loud, join Angela as she reads MARIA HAD A LITTLE LLAMA in English and Spanish and teaches Rocco about life in a Peruvian village. ABOUT THE BOOK Maria Had A Little Llama – Everyone knows about Mary and her little lamb. But do you know Maria? With gorgeous, Peruvian-inspired illustrations and English and Spanish retellings, Angela Dominguez gives a fresh new twist to the classic rhyme. Maria and her mischievous little llama will steal your heart. Watch Angela’s Read Out Loud Episode! CONNECT WITH ANGELA DOMINGUEZ Website Facebook Goodreads Twitter CONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook Page Facebook Group Instagram Newsletter Pinterest Twitter YouTube Read Out Loud Executive Producer: Julie Gribble The post KidLit RADIO: MARIA HAD A LITTLE LLAMA (Bilingual) Read Out Loud appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit RADIO: SWAP! Read Out Loud

  Listen

  Jul 13 2018

  Ahoy! How do two pirate friends turn a button into a new sailing ship? Find out as Steve Light reads his very clever tale, SWAP! on this podcast episode of Read Out Loud. ABOUT THE BOOK Swap! Written and illustrated by Steve Light Published by Candlewick Press An old ship. A sad friend. A button … An idea. Let’s SWAP! In a young scalawag’s first tale of bartering, a peg-legged youngster sets out to help his captain repair his vessel. One button for three teacups. SWAP two teacups for four coils of rope. SWAP and so it goes, until the little swashbuckler secures sails, anchors, a ship’s wheel, and more … including a happy friend. Steve Light’s intricate pen-and-ink illustrations, punctuated by brilliant blue and other hues, anchor this clever tale of friendship and ingenuity. Watch Steve’s Read Out Loud Episode! CONNECT WITH STEVE LIGHT Website | Instagram | Twitter CONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook Group | Facebook Page | Instagram | Newsletter | Pinterest | Twitter | YouTube Read Out Loud Executive Producer: Julie Gribble The post KidLit RADIO: SWAP! Read Out Loud appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit RADIO: COCK-A-DOODLE OOPS! Read Out Loud

  Listen

  Jul 13 2018

  Farmer McPeeper is a very deep sleeper — so who will wake him while Rooster is on holiday at the beach? This podcast episode of Read Out Loud will have you and your little ones in fits of giggles as each of the animals on the farm have a go at ringing in the new day. Will cock-a-doodle-moo do the trick? Find out with award-winning author, Lori Degman, as she reads  COCK-A-DOODLE OOPS! ABOUT THE BOOK Cock-a-Doodle Oops! –  2015 Honor Book, International Literacy Association. Illustrated by Deborah Zemke. When the rooster is away, who is there to ring in the day? Cock-a-Doodle Oops! is the humorous tale of a community of farm animals who band together to help out a rooster who is badly in need of a vacation. How hard can it be to wake up a sleeping farmer? While the rooster is gone, the pig, cow, sheep, and other farm animals attempt to rouse Farmer McPeeper with “cock-a-doodle SQUEAL,” cock-a-doodle MOO, and “cock-a-doodle BAAAA,” with hilarious results. The irresistible humor in this barnyard comedy builds vocabulary while encouraging children to cock-a-doodle-uh-oh along with the silly farm animals. Watch Lori’s Read Out Loud Episode! CONNECT WITH LORI DEGMAN Website Facebook Goodreads Twitter CONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook Page Facebook Group Instagram Newsletter Pinterest Twitter YouTube Read Out Loud Executive Producer: Julie Gribble The post KidLit RADIO: COCK-A-DOODLE OOPS! Read Out Loud appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit RADIO: TEK: THE MODERN CAVE BOY Read Out Loud

  Listen

  Jul 12 2018

  Tek spends all his time in his cave glued to tech. Sitting in the dark on his own, he seems to have forgotten that a world exists beyond his screen. His only method of communication? One word: “UGH.” Sound like a cave kid you know? Well, we know just how to snap them out of it! Join author/illustrator, Patrick McDonnell, creator of “Mutts”, as he reads his picture book, TEK: THE MODERN CAVE BOY on this podcast episode of Read Out Loud! ABOUT THE BOOK TEK: The Modern Cave Boy Written and illustrated Patrick McDonnell Published by Little, Brown Books for Young Readers Tek is a cave boy in love with tech: his tablet, video games, phone, and TV keep him deep in his cave, glued to his devices, day in and day out. He never sees his friends or family anymore–and his ability to communicate has devolved to just one word: “UGH” Can anyone in the village convince Tek to unplug and come outside into the big, beautiful world? Watch Patrick’s Read Out Loud Episode! CONNECT WITH PATRICK MCDONNELL Facebook | Twitter | Website CONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook Group | Facebook Page | Instagram | Newsletter | Pinterest | Twitter | YouTube The post KidLit RADIO: TEK: THE MODERN CAVE BOY Read Out Loud appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit RADIO: BEAR SNORES ON Read Out Loud

  Listen

  Jul 12 2018

  As a winter storm rages outside, deep in his warm cave, Bear sleeps soundly. Little forest creatures discover the cozy cave and begin to make themselves at home, building a fire, popping corn and brewing tea. Bear seems to be able to sleep through nearly anything — but what will happen if he wakes? Find out on this podcast episode of Read Out Loud as Karma Wilson reads her book, BEAR SNORES ON. ABOUT THE BOOK Bear Snores On (Illustrated by Jane Chapman) – One by one, a whole host of different animals and birds find their way out of the cold and into Bear’s cave to warm up. But even after the tea has been brewed and the corn has been popped, Bear just snores on! See what happens when he finally wakes up and finds his cave full of uninvited guests — all of them having a party without him. Watch Karma’s Read Out Loud Episode! CONNECT WITH KARMA WILSON Website Facebook Goodreads Twitter CONNECT WITH JANE CHAPMAN Website Facebook Twitter CONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook Page Facebook Group Instagram Newsletter Pinterest Twitter YouTube Read Out Loud Executive Producer: Julie Gribble The post KidLit RADIO: BEAR SNORES ON Read Out Loud appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit RADIO: PEG + CAT: THE PIZZA PROBLEM Read Out Loud

  Listen

  Jul 11 2018

  If there is one thing we love as much as pizza, it’s a book that makes math digestible! Fractions can be tricky, but Jennifer Oxley and Billy Aronson make them easy as pie as they read PEG + CAT: THE PIZZA PROBLEM on this podcast episode of Read Out Loud. ABOUT THE BOOK Peg + Cat: The Pizza Problem By Jennifer Oxley and Billy Aronson Published by Candlewick Entertainment What do fractions have to do with pizza? The stars of the Emmy Award winning animated series “Peg + Cat” serve up a delicious new episode. It’s lunchtime at Peg’s Pizza Place. Peg and Cat are excited to take their first order from the Teens only to learn that some of their customers want a whole pizza while one of them wants half a pie. How can Peg and Cat make half a pie when they don t know what “half “is? Luckily, Ramone and Mac are there to help, with a slice up the middle of the pizza. As more customers come in, things get entertaining, with Peg singing a jazzy song and Cat doing a dance. But soon there’s another problem: four orders, but only two and a half pizzas left. Peg is totally freaking out until Cat reminds her that when it comes to halves and wholes, it’s all in how you slice it. Watch the Read Out Loud Episode! CONNECT WITH JENNIFER OXLEY Website | Facebook | Twitter CONNECT WITH BILLY ARONSON Website | Facebook CONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook Group | Facebook Page | Instagram | Newsletter | Pinterest | Twitter | YouTube Read Out Loud Executive Producer: Julie Gribble  The post KidLit RADIO: PEG + CAT: THE PIZZA PROBLEM Read Out Loud appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit RADIO: DAD AND ME IN THE MORNING Read Out Loud

  Listen

  Jul 11 2018

  Jacob and his father have, “lots of ways of talking…signing or lipreading or just squeezing each other’s hands.” Jacob is hearing impaired — but by no means, adventure impaired. Join Jacob and his dad as they leave the house before dawn to watch the sunrise over the ocean. Let author Patricia Lakin’s impressionistic descriptions in this gorgeous story, DAD AND ME IN THE MORNING, take you away, on this podcast episode of Read Out Loud. We recorded this episode in front of a live audience of picture book lovers during the KidLit TV Children’s Book Weekend on Governors Island. ABOUT THE BOOK Early one morning, when it is still dark, a young boy wakes to his special alarm clock. He puts on his hearing aids and clothes, then goes to wake his father. Together they brave the cold as they walk down the dirt road that leads to the beach. They are excited about their adventure—soon they will see the sunrise.   Watch Patricia’s Read Out Loud Episode! CONNECT WITH PATRICIA LAKIN Website  CONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook Group | Facebook Page | Instagram | Newsletter | Pinterest | Twitter | YouTube Executive Producer: Julie Gribble  The post KidLit RADIO: DAD AND ME IN THE MORNING Read Out Loud appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit RADIO: LOUISE LOVES ART Read Out Loud

  Listen

  Jul 11 2018

  Louise loves art — drawing, creating, and displaying. Art is everything to her. Art is also her little brother. Art loves Louise and everything she does. Art loves Louise so much he decides to make his own art just for her. Unfortunately, Art’s art is made out of Louise’s masterpiece! A playful ode to the limitless curiosity and creativity of children and the boundless love siblings share. Join author/illustrator Kelly Light and Rocco Staino for this podcast episode of Read Out Loud, as Kelly reads her first ever picture book, LOUISE LOVES ART. ABOUT THE BOOK Louise Loves Art Written and illustrated by Kelly Light Published by Balzer + Bray Meet Louise. Louise loves art more than anything. It’s her imagination on the outside. She is determined to create a masterpiece—her pièce de résistance! Louise also loves Art, her little brother. This is their story. Louise Loves Art is a celebration of the brilliant artist who resides in all of us. Watch Kelly’s Read Out Loud Episode! CONNECT WITH KELLY LIGHT Website Facebook Goodreads Instagram Twitter CONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook Page Facebook Group Instagram Newsletter Pinterest Twitter YouTube Read Out Loud Host: Rocco Staino Executive Producer: Julie Gribble The post KidLit RADIO: LOUISE LOVES ART Read Out Loud appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit RADIO: READ THE BOOK, LEMMINGS! Read Out Loud

  Listen

  Jul 11 2018

  When Ame Dyckman and Zachariah O’Hora get involved, you know you are in for a giggle. Join this brilliant author/illustrator duo as they perform their madcap tale of lemmings and literacy, READ THE BOOK LEMMINGS! on this podcast episode of Read Out Loud. PSST…If you haven’t watched the video version of this episode of Read Out Loud, you are missing out! Ame and Zach act out the story in costume. Note: no lemmings were harmed in the filming of this story. ABOUT THE BOOK Aboard the S.S. Cliff, First Mate Foxy reads an interesting fact: “Lemmings don’t jump off cliffs.” But Foxy can’t get the lemmings on the Cliff to read his book, too. They’re too busy jumping off. After a chilly third rescue, exasperated Foxy and grumbly polar bear Captain PB realize their naughty nautical crew isn’t being stubborn: the lemmings (Jumper, Me Too, and Ditto) can’t read. And until Foxy patiently teaches his lemmings to read the book, he can’t return to reading it, either! Watch the Read Out Loud Episode!   CONNECT WITH AME Website | Facebook | Twitter CONNECT WITH ZACHARIAH Website | Tumblr | Twitter CONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook Group | Facebook Page | Instagram | Newsletter | Pinterest | Twitter | YouTube Executive Producer: Julie Gribble  The post KidLit RADIO: READ THE BOOK, LEMMINGS! Read Out Loud appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit RADIO: HAPPY IN OUR SKIN Read Out Loud

  Listen

  Jul 10 2018

  There is nothing more beautiful than being yourself. That’s the message of this wonderfully inclusive story. In this podcast episode of Read Out Loud, join author Fran Manushkin as she reads HAPPY IN OUR SKIN. We recorded this episode of Read Out Loud in front of a live audience of picture book lovers during the KidLit TV Children’s Book Weekend on Governors Island. ABOUT THE BOOK Is there anything more splendid than a baby’s skin? For families of all stripes comes a sweet celebration of what makes us unique—and what holds us together.Look at you! You look so cute,in your brand-new birthday suit. Just savor these bouquets of babies—cocoa-brown, cinnamon, peaches and cream. As they grow, their clever skin does too, enjoying hugs and tickles, protecting them inside and out, and making them one of a kind. Fran Manushkin’s rollicking text and Lauren Tobia’s delicious illustrations paint a breezy and irresistible picture of the human family—and how wonderful it is to be just who you are. Watch Fran’s Read Out Loud Episode!     CONNECT WITH FRAN MANUSHKIN Twitter CONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook Group | Facebook Page | Instagram | Newsletter | Pinterest | Twitter | YouTube The post KidLit RADIO: HAPPY IN OUR SKIN Read Out Loud appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit RADIO: MUDDY MUD, BUD Read Out Loud

  Listen

  Jul 09 2018

  On this podcast episode of Read Out Loud, author Patricia Lakin reads MUDDY MUD, BUD, her book about a little car that prefers rolling in the mud to scrubbing on the suds! We recorded this episode of Read Out Loud in front of a live audience of picture book lovers during the KidLit TV Children’s Book Weekend on Governors Island. ABOUT THE BOOK   Bud the car loves to be muddy. It makes him look and feel so good! But when he thinks a car wash will help him get muddier, he’s in for a big surprise.   Watch Patricia’s Read Out Loud Episode! CONNECT WITH PATRICIA LAKIN Website  CONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook Group | Facebook Page | Instagram | Newsletter | Pinterest | Twitter | YouTube Executive Producer: Julie Gribble  The post KidLit RADIO: MUDDY MUD, BUD Read Out Loud appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit RADIO: REVOLUTIONARY ROGUES Read Out Loud

  Listen

  Jul 09 2018

  Tension, drama, intrigue! On this podcast episode of Read Out Loud, Selene Castrovilla reads REVOLUTIONARY ROGUES. For slightly older listeners, this true story tells the action-packed account of Major General Benedict Arnold’s betrayal of American Revolutionary forces by colluding with British spy, Major John André. A fascinating page out of American history and an unmissable episode for budding history lovers. We recorded this episode of Read Out Loud in front of a live audience of picture book lovers during the KidLit TV Children’s Book Weekend on Governors Island. ABOUT THE BOOK Young fans of the Broadway smash Hamilton will enjoy this riveting nonfiction picture book that unfolds like a play, telling a story from American history. Gravely injured and with little chance for more military honors, Major General Benedict Arnold seeks reward and recognition another way. He contacts Major John André, the new head of British intelligence and another man determined to prove himself. Arnold and André strike a deal and use Arnold’s intelligence to take over West Point, the strategic American fort. The plan ultimately fails, leading to André’s capture and death and Arnold’s loss of reward and glory. Author Selene Castrovilla and illustrator John O’Brien brilliantly capture the tensions and high drama of these two revolutionary rogues by highlighting their similarities and differences and demonstrating how they brought about their own tragic ends. This title also includes an afterword, timelines of the lives of both men, an extensive bibliography, and a list of key places to visit. Watch Selene’s Read Out Loud Episode!   CONNECT WITH Selene Website | Twitter CONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook Group | Facebook Page | Instagram | Newsletter | Pinterest | Twitter | YouTube Executive Producer: Julie Gribble  The post KidLit RADIO: REVOLUTIONARY ROGUES Read Out Loud appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit RADIO: THE LITTLE RED LIGHTHOUSE Read Out Loud

  Listen

  Jul 09 2018

  Join KidLit TV’s own, Rocco Staino, for this podcast episode of Read Out Loud, as he reads the picture book classic, THE LITTLE RED LIGHTHOUSE. It’s based on the story of a real little red lighthouse that guards the shoreline of New York City. The story is a beautiful reminder that big or small, we all have special talents to share. We recorded this episode of Read Out Loud in front of a live audience of picture book lovers during the KidLit TV Children’s Book Weekend on Governors Island. ABOUT THE BOOK On the Manhattan bank of the Hudson River, a small lighthouse–made of steel and painted bright red–proudly protects boats with his faithful beam. One day a  great expanse of grey steel, which also shines a bright light into the fog and darkness, is built over it. The little red lighthouse feels insignificant and useless in comparison but soon learns that . . . small can be mighty! Watch the Read Out Loud Episode!     CONNECT WITH ROCCO Twitter | Facebook | Instagram CONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook Group | Facebook Page | Instagram | Newsletter | Pinterest | Twitter | YouTube Executive Producer: Julie Gribble  The post KidLit RADIO: THE LITTLE RED LIGHTHOUSE Read Out Loud appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• Storynory: THE PRINCESS AND THE PEA

  Listen

  Dec 20 2017

  Let’s read together with our friends at Storynory and draw the Lion from ANDROCLES AND THE LION on Storynory Art with Lori! {"@context":"http:\/\/schema.org\/","@id":"https:\/\/www.kidlit.tv\/2017\/12\/storynory-princess-pea\/#arve-youtube-towlyyajlhy6422838fcce40664191474","type":"VideoObject","embedURL":"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/TOWlyyAjLhY?feature=oembed&iv_load_policy=3&modestbranding=1&rel=0&autohide=1&playsinline=0&autoplay=0&enablejsapi=1","name":"Storynory Art with Lori | How to Draw the Bed & Pea from The Princess and the Pea","thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/i.ytimg.com\/vi\/TOWlyyAjLhY\/hqdefault.jpg","uploadDate":"2017-12-19T23:44:34+00:00","author":"KidLit TV","description":"Let\u2019s read together with our friends at Storynory and draw the Lion from ANDROCLES AND THE LION on Storynory Art with Lori! https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=TOWlyyAjLhY This classic story by Hans Christian Andersen reveals the the one and only test whether or not a girl is a true princess. Does she h"} This classic story by Hans Christian Andersen reveals the the one and only test whether or not a girl is a true princess. Does she have what it takes? Proofread by Claire Deakin. Read by Natasha. Duration just 4.30 There was, once upon a time, a prince who wanted to marry a princess, but she must be a true princess. So he travelled through the whole world to find one, but there was always something against each. There were plenty of princesses, but he could not find out if they were true princesses. In every case there was some little defect, which showed the genuine article was not yet found. So he came home again in very low spirits, for he had wanted very much to have a true princess. One night there was a dreadful storm; it thundered and lightened, and the rain streamed down in torrents. It was fearful! There was a knocking heard at the palace gate, and the old king went to open it. There stood a princess outside the gate; but oh! What a sad plight she was in from the rain and the storm! The water was running down from her hair and her dress into the points of her shoes and out at the heels again. Yet she said she was a true princess. “Well, we shall soon find that out!” Thought the old queen. But she said nothing, and went into the sleeping room, took off all the bedclothes, and laid a pea on the bottom of the bed. Then she put twenty mattresses on top of the pea, and twenty eiderdown quilts on the top of the mattresses. This was the bed in which the princess was to sleep. The next morning she was asked how she had slept. “Oh, very badly!” Said the princess. “I scarcely closed my eyes all night! I am sure I don’t know what was in the bed. I laid on something so hard that my whole body is black and blue. It was dreadful!” Now they perceived that she was a true princess, because she had felt the pea through the twenty mattresses and the twenty eiderdown quilts. No one but a true princess could be so sensitive. So the prince married her, for now he knew that at last he had gotten hold of a true princess. The pea was put into the Royal Museum, where it is still to be seen, if no one has stolen it. Now this is a true story. So Bertie says that’s how you tell a real princess. Sadie says she would never sit on a pea, but still Bertie won’t say that she’s a real princess and now she’s in a bit of a huff. I’m sure she will cheer up soon because she likes Bertie really. Executive Producer – Julie Gribble CONNECT WITH Storynory  Website | Twitter | Facebook CONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook Group | Facebook Page | Instagram | Newsletter | Pinterest | Twitter | YouTube The post Storynory: THE PRINCESS AND THE PEA appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• Storynory: ANDROCLES AND THE LION

  Listen

  Nov 17 2017

    Let’s read together with our friends at Storynory and draw the Lion from ANDROCLES AND THE LION on Storynory Art with Lori! {"@context":"http:\/\/schema.org\/","@id":"https:\/\/www.kidlit.tv\/2017\/11\/androcles-and-the-lion\/#arve-youtube-yz3e8hcnr9s6422838fd161b338472010","type":"VideoObject","embedURL":"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/yz3E8hCNr9s?feature=oembed&iv_load_policy=3&modestbranding=1&rel=0&autohide=1&playsinline=0&autoplay=0&enablejsapi=1","name":"Storynory Art with Lori | How to Draw the Lion from Androcles and The Lion!","thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/i.ytimg.com\/vi\/yz3E8hCNr9s\/hqdefault.jpg","uploadDate":"2017-11-17T10:00:27+00:00","author":"KidLit TV","description":"  Let\u2019s read together with our friends at Storynory and draw the Lion from ANDROCLES AND THE LION on Storynory Art with Lori! https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=yz3E8hCNr9s&feature=youtu.be   The tale of ANDROCLES AND THE LION written by Aesop teaches the lesson that \u201cGratitude is the sig"}   The tale of ANDROCLES AND THE LION written by Aesop teaches the lesson that “Gratitude is the sign of a noble soul!” A story perfect for your next story time! Read by Natasha. Duration 6 minutes 5 seconds Proofread by Claire Deakin. It happened in ancient times that a slave named Androcles escaped from his master and fled into the forest, and he wandered there for a long time until he was weary. Just then he heard a lion near him moaning and groaning and at times roaring terribly.  And when he tried to get up, there he saw the lion coming towards him. Instead of attacking him it kept on moaning and groaning and looking at Androcles, who saw that the lion was holding out his right paw, which was covered with blood and very much swollen. Looking more closely at it, Androcles saw a great big thorn pressed into the paw, which was the cause of all the lion’s trouble. Plucking up courage, he seized hold of the thorn and drew it out of the lion’s paw, who roared with pain when the thorn came out, but soon after found such relief from it that he rubbed up against Androcles, and showed  that he knew, that he was truly thankful for being relieved from such pain. One day, a number of soldiers came marching through the forest and found Androcles. They took him prisoner and brought him back to the town, and he was condemned to death because he had fled from his master. Now it used to be the custom to throw murderers and other criminals to the lions,  and on the appointed day he was led forth into the arena. The Emperor of Rome was in the royal box that day and gave the signal for the lion to come out and attack Androcles. But when it came out of its cage and got near Androcles, what do you think it did? Instead of jumping upon him, it rubbed up against him, and stroked him with its paw. It was of course the lion which Androcles had met in the forest. The Emperor summoned Androcles to him. So Androcles told the Emperor all that had happened to him and how the lion was showing gratitude for his having relieved it of the thorn. Thereupon, the emperor pardoned Androcles and ordered his master to set him free, while the lion was taken back into the forest and let loose to enjoy freedom once more. Storynory was founded by Hugh Fraser and Matthew Lynn. Check out Storynory on iTunes, too! CONNECT WITH Storynory  Website | Twitter | Facebook CONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook Group | Facebook Page | Instagram | Newsletter | Pinterest | Twitter | YouTube The post Storynory: ANDROCLES AND THE LION appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• Storynory: THE GOLDEN GOOSE

  Listen

  Nov 03 2017

  Let’s read together with our friends at Storynory and draw the Golden Goose on Storynory Art with Lori! {"@context":"http:\/\/schema.org\/","@id":"https:\/\/www.kidlit.tv\/2017\/11\/storynory-episode-5-golden-goose\/#arve-youtube-g24wqbdimd06422838fd6e2b834755064","type":"VideoObject","embedURL":"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/G24wqbdIMD0?feature=oembed&iv_load_policy=3&modestbranding=1&rel=0&autohide=1&playsinline=0&autoplay=0&enablejsapi=1","name":"Storynory Art with Lori | How to Draw the Golden Goose!","thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/i.ytimg.com\/vi\/G24wqbdIMD0\/hqdefault.jpg","uploadDate":"2017-11-03T08:00:14+00:00","author":"KidLit TV","description":"Let\u2019s read together with our friends at Storynory and draw the Golden Goose on Storynory Art with Lori! https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=G24wqbdIMD0&feature=youtu.be   What if your parents called you a \"dummy\" all your life? What would you do? The Golden Goose is a tale of a young boy who ca"}   What if your parents called you a “dummy” all your life? What would you do? The Golden Goose is a tale of a young boy who can’t be that much of a dummy, because he found a golden goose and made the most significant people of the local town look like fools. His secret? He had a kind heart. Let’s read together on this episode of KidLit Podcast with our friends at Storynory! The Golden Goose Read by Natasha. Duration 14.56. Proofread by Claire Deakin & Jana Elizabeth Once upon a time, there lived a woodcutter and his wife, who had three sons. The eldest two were strong and tall, and their mother and father were always telling them how handsome and clever they were – but the youngest son was, to tell you the truth, just a bit simple in the head. He wasn’t very tall, and he wasn’t very strong, and his family thought he was good for nothing. They hardly ever called him by his real name, but instead they gave him a cruel nickname. They called him Dummy, because they said he was stupid. One day the eldest son wanted to go to the forest to cut wood. The mother praised him for being such a useful boy, and before he set out she gave him some of her best fruit cake for his lunch, and a bottle of wine to wash it down. While the boy was walking through the forest, he met a little grey old man who said to him: “Do give me a little piece of your cake and a swig of your wine. I’m so terribly hungry and thirsty.” And the eldest son replied: “Be off with you, you filthy old beggar.” The little grey old man went away, but not without taking his revenge. He put a curse on the boy, so that when he started to cut a tree down, his axe slipped and went into his leg. The boy limped home to his mother who washed his wound and bandaged him. The next day, the second eldest son went out to the forest to cut wood. Before he set out, his mother praised him for being such a useful boy, but especially asked him to be careful with the axe, so as not to have a nasty accident like his brother. The boy promised not to be careless, and his mother gave him some of her best sponge cake for his lunch, and a bottle of wine to wash it down. It happened that as the boy was walking through the woods, he came across the same little grey old man. The man said to him: “Do please share your sponge cake and your wine with me, for I am so terribly weak with hunger and thirst.” The boy said: “Be off with you, you lazy old scoundrel. If you want to eat, you’d better work.” The little grey old man went away, but not without taking his revenge. Not long after, when the boy was cutting down a tree, his axe flew out of his hand and hit him on the head. He crawled home to his mother who bandaged up his wound and asked him why he had not kept his promise to be more careful. For the rest of the week, the two eldest sons were both lying in bed recovering from their wounds. The father said to the third and youngest son: “Get on your feet, you lazy Dummy. Why are you sitting around doing nothing, when both brothers are hurt and unable to work? Get out to the forest and cut some wood – if you’re not too stupid to do that.” The mother laughed at him and said: “It’s more than likely that Dummy will cut his own head off – but it won’t be much of a loss to anyone.” Before he left she gave him some cake that she had burned almost to a crust in the oven, and a bottle of sour beer to wash it down. As the youngest boy was going through the woods, he met the same little grey old man who had crossed the path of his brothers. The man said to him: “Do please share some of your cake and beer with me. I am so terribly hungry and thirsty, and I fear that if I don’t have something to eat and drink soon, I will surely die” The young boy replied: “Old man, I will gladly share with you what I have – but the cake is burnt and the beer is sour.” “Never mind that,” said the man. “I am grateful for what you can give me.” The boy and the little grey old man sat down and shared the cake and the beer. After they had finished their lunch, the man said: “Since you have a good heart, and have shared what you have with me, I will give you a reward. You see that old tree over there. Cut it down with your axe and you will find something of value inside its hollow trunk.” So when the little grey old man had left, the young boy, whose parents called him “Dummy”, took his axe and cut down the hollow tree just as he had been told. Inside he found a goose – but this was no ordinary bird, for its feathers were made of gold. The boy realised that he was in luck, and thought to himself: “Why should I go home now and suffer the insults of my parents and brothers? They will take this valuable bird from me, and I shall have nothing.” So the boy decided to run away from home. He put the golden goose under his arm and set out for the town. Then he went to the inn, intending to stay there. He stood at the bar and asked the innkeeper if he would accept a golden feather as payment for his board and lodgings. When the innkeeper saw the golden goose, he readily agreed. After the boy had gone to bed he said to his three daughters: “That young boy whose parents call Dummy is staying up in our guest room. But he can’t be as simple in the head as they say – for he’s got a valuable bird with him – a goose with feathers made of gold.” The eldest daughter thought to herself: “Well fancy that; feathers made of gold. I’ll pluck one or maybe more of those for myself.” After the clock struck midnight, she sneaked into the boy’s room, and saw that he was asleep with his arm around the golden goose. She crept up and tried to pluck a feather, but the feather wouldn’t budge, and when she tried to take her hand away, she found that she was stuck to it. She couldn’t move, and she couldn’t cry out for fear of waking the boy. She had to stay where she was – on her knees by the bed, with her hand on the feather. After the clock struck one in the morning, the second sister came in the room, planning to take one feather or more for herself. In the dark she didn’t see her sister, but as soon as she touched her back, she found that her hand was stuck fast to her, and she had to stay where she was, not moving and not making a sound. After the clock struck two in the morning, the third sister came in. The other two shouted: “Stay back!” But it was too late – she reached out hoping to steal a feather and found that her hand was stuck to the middle sister. The boy and the goose slept soundly through all of this. In the morning the boy got up, paid his bill with a golden feather, and left the inn with the goose under his arm. The sisters had no choice but to follow on behind him. What a pretty procession they made! Along the way they met the bishop: “What a sight!” He exclaimed. “It’s hardly right for three young women to follow a boy around like that!” As the girls went past he tapped the youngest on the shoulder. In doing so he found that he was stuck to her and had to follow. Further up the road they met a police sergeant. The bishop called out to him: “Sergeant. Help me get free from this young woman’s shoulder. I’m stuck to her and people are bound to start all kinds of gossip about it!” The police sergeant tried to pull the bishop free, but in doing so he found that both his hands were stuck to his waist, and he had to follow along with the procession. At the top of the road they met the mayor. “What’s this town coming to?” Cried the mayor. “The bishop and the police sergeant are following three young girls who are following a young boy; all holding on to each other in a most unseemly fashion. Have they gone mad?” As he spoke, he tried to pull the police sergeant and the bishop away – but in doing so he found that he was stuck to both of them, and had to follow on. The boy led the little line of the townspeople along up the road, and at the top of the hill they passed the King’s palace. Now the King’s daughter was very beautiful, but she had the saddest face in the whole wide world. She had never laughed and not once even smiled. The King was so troubled by the young princess’ unhappiness, that he had made a special law: Whosoever could make her laugh and smile would win her hand in marriage. But the truth was that nothing very funny ever happened inside the royal palace. All the King’s servants and advisers were far too high and mighty to understand what would make a young girl laugh – or indeed to allow anything amusing to happen at all. As the boy, known as Dummy, went past the palace, he still held the golden goose under his arm; and he was followed by the innkeeper’s three daughters, the bishop, the police sergeant, and the mayor. The princess looked out and saw the important people in their uniforms being tugged along behind three girls and a boy with a goose. She thought that it was the first thing she had seen in her life that was truly funny. She burst out laughing and ran, still giggling, to her father to tell him all about what she had seen. When the King looked out of his window and saw the procession, he couldn’t help laughing himself. He sent for his guards and told them to bring the boy and his followers directly to him. When the boy entered the King’s chamber, with the followers behind him; the mayor, the bishop and the policeman all called out angrily that he should pay for his crime with his head. The king, still laughing, said that on the contrary – he would be rewarded with the hand in marriage of his daughter, the princess. For an entire week after that, the innkeeper’s three daughters, the bishop, the policeman, and the mayor were all stuck to the golden goose and to one another. While they were stuck, all the townspeople and the whole court laughed and laughed at them. The boy whose family called him Dummy married the princess and inherited the kingdom. He lived with his beautiful wife and they had six happy smiling children, and the palace was often filled with laughter. Storynory was founded by Hugh Fraser and Matthew Lynn. Check out Storynory on iTunes, too! Executive Producer – Julie Gribble CONNECT WITH Storynory  Website | Twitter | Facebook CONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook Group | Facebook Page | Instagram | Newsletter | Pinterest | Twitter | YouTube Leave a comment for us below. We love to hear from YOU! The post Storynory: THE GOLDEN GOOSE appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• Storynory: BEAUTY AND THE BEAST

  Listen

  Oct 19 2017

  Let’s read together with our friends at Storynory and draw the rose from Beauty and the Beast Storynory Art with Lori! {"@context":"http:\/\/schema.org\/","@id":"https:\/\/www.kidlit.tv\/2017\/10\/storynory-episode-1-beauty-beast\/#arve-youtube-oj3h-ddxdia6422838fdc742152980396","type":"VideoObject","embedURL":"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/oj3h-DDXdIA?feature=oembed&iv_load_policy=3&modestbranding=1&rel=0&autohide=1&playsinline=0&autoplay=0&enablejsapi=1","name":"Stornory Art with Lori | How to Draw the Rose from BEAUTY AND THE BEAST","thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/i.ytimg.com\/vi\/oj3h-DDXdIA\/hqdefault.jpg","uploadDate":"2017-10-19T06:00:29+00:00","author":"KidLit TV","description":"Let\u2019s read together with our friends at Storynory and draw the rose from Beauty and the Beast Storynory Art with Lori! The story of The Golden Goose Beauty and the Beast Adapted by Bertie Read by Emma Proofread & Sound Edited by Jana Elizabeth KidLit TV is teaming up with Storynory, a story podc"} The story of The Golden Goose Beauty and the Beast Adapted by Bertie Read by Emma Proofread & Sound Edited by Jana Elizabeth KidLit TV is teaming up with Storynory, a story podcast for kids that has hundreds of free audio stories! From classic tales to Aesop’s Fables and holiday stories, kids will love listening to this amazing collection, at home, in school and on the go! Today on Storynory we read BEAUTY AND THE BEAST together. It’s a classic tale that answers the question: Do appearances matter, or is it the content of your heart that truly counts? Storynory was founded by Hugh Fraser and Matthew Lynn. Check out Storynory on iTunes, too! CONNECT WITH Storynory  Website | Twitter | Facebook CONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook Group | Facebook Page | Instagram | Newsletter | Pinterest | Twitter | YouTube The post Storynory: BEAUTY AND THE BEAST appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit Podcast: Javaka Steptoe

  Listen

  Jul 06 2017

  Caldecott Award winner and author and illustrator of RADIANT CHILD, Javaka Steptoe, is on KidLit RADIO! Art from the heart describes Javaka’s work as he expresses the beauty of diversity, art and history in his work. What better place to meet up with him than the Texas Library Association Conference — one of the biggest librarians conferences in the world, where librarians come together to celebrate the book! ABOUT THE BOOK     Somewhere in Brooklyn, a little boy dreams of being a famous artist, not knowing that one day he would make himself a king. Jean-Michael Basquiat and his unique, collage-style paintings rocketed to fame in the 1980s as a cultural phenomenon unlike anything the art world had ever seen. But before that, he was a little boy who saw art everywhere: in poetry books and museums, in games and in the words that we speak, and in the pulsing energy of New York City. Now, award-winning illustrator Javaka Steptoe’s vivid text and bold artwork echoing Basquiat’s own introduce young readers to the powerful message that art doesn’t always have to be neat or clean–and definitely not inside the lines–to be beautiful. CONNECT WITH Texas Library Association Website | Facebook Page | Twitter | YouTube CONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook Group | Facebook Page | Instagram | Newsletter | Pinterest |  Twitter | YouTube StoryMakers on Location Executive Producer: Julie Gribble The post KidLit Podcast: Javaka Steptoe appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit Podcast: Chris Haughton

  Listen

  Mar 12 2017

  Podcast Ep 40 | Chris Haughton Join Rocco and illustrator/author Chris Haughton on this creative and charming episode of KidLit Podcast. Learn about his books, including the newest: GOODNIGHT EVERYONE. What’s it about? A little bear who isn’t sleepy enough to say, “Goodnight!” Chris points us to the direction of the Ursa Minor and Ursa Major constellations  — two bears! — in the northern sky. He even describes the beautiful and fun collages he used to create all the animals in the forest and shows you how to create your own! There’s also a special appearance of George from OH NO, GEORGE! WATCH CHRIS’ STORYMAKERS EPISODE HERE!  ABOUT THE BOOKS Goodnight Everyone Written and illustrated by Chris Haughton The sun is setting, and everyone in the forest is getting sleepy. The mice, rabbits, and deer all give great big yawns as they snuggle up with their families for the night. But someone isn’t sleepy just yet. Little Bear thinks he can stay awake a bit longer.   Oh No, George! Written and illustrated by Chris Haughton George is a dog with all the best intentions. And his owner, Harry, has all the best hopes that George will be a well-behaved dog when he leaves him alone for the day. But when George spies a delicious cake sitting on the kitchen table, his resolve starts to waver. It’s so hard to be a good dog when there are cats to chase and flowers to dig up What ever will Harry say when he gets back? Shh! We Have a Plan Written and illustrated by Chris Haughton Four friends creep through the woods, and what do they spot? An exquisite bird high in a tree “Hello birdie,” waves one. “Shh We have a plan,” hush the others. They stealthily make their advance, nets in the air. Ready one, ready two, ready three, and “go” But as one comically foiled plan follows another, it soon becomes clear that their quiet, observant companion, hand outstretched, has a far better idea Little Owl Lost Written and illustrated by Chris Haughton Uh-oh Little Owl has fallen from his nest and landed with a whump on the ground. Now he is lost, and his mommy is nowhere to be seen With the earnest help of his new friend Squirrel, Little Owl goes in search of animals that fit his description of Mommy Owl. But while some are big (like a bear) or have pointy ears (like a bunny) or prominent eyes (like a frog), none of them have all the features that make up his mommy. Where could she be? ABOUT CHRIS HAUGHTON Chris Haughton is a designer and children’s book author. He has been a freelance illustrator for 12 years! His first book A Bit Lost is translated in 20 languages and has won awards in 7 countries including the Dutch Picture Book of the Year. Oh No, George! came out in 2012 and won the Junior Magazine Picturebook of the year award. His third book SHH! We Have a Plan came out in March 2014 and won the AOI award for children’s books for 2014 and GOODNIGHT EVERYONE was released in 2016! CONNECT WITH CHRIS HAUGHTON Website | Facebook | Twitter CONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook Group | Facebook Page | Instagram | Newsletter | Pinterest | Twitter | YouTube This post contains affiliate links. Leave a comment for us below. We love to hear from YOU! The post KidLit Podcast: Chris Haughton appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• Storynory: GOLDILOCKS AND THE THREE BEARS

  Listen

  Mar 09 2017

  The classic story Goldilocks and the Three Bears is great to read aloud during your next storytime! Let’s read it together. Based on the Charming version by the Victorian writer Andrew Lang. Read by Natasha. Once upon a time there were three bears, who lived together in a house of their own in a wood. One of them was a little, small wee bear; one was a middle-sized bear, and the other was a great, huge bear. One day, after they had made porridge for their breakfast, they walked out into the wood while the porridge was cooling. And while they were walking, a little girl came into the house. This little girl had golden curls that tumbled down her back to her waist, and everyone called her by Goldilocks. Goldilocks went inside. First she tasted the porridge of the great, huge bear, and that was far too hot for her. And then she tasted the porridge of the middle bear, and that was too cold for her. And then she went to the porridge of the little, small wee bear, and tasted that. And that was neither too hot nor too cold, but just right; and she liked it so well, that she ate it all up. Then Goldilocks went upstairs into the bed chamber and first she lay down upon the bed of the great, huge bear, and then she lay down upon the bed of the middle bear and finally she lay down upon the bed of the little, small wee bear, and that was just right. So she covered herself up comfortably, and lay there until she fell fast asleep. By this time, the three bears thought their porridge would be cool enough, so they came home to breakfast. “SOMEBODY HAS BEEN AT MY PORRIDGE!” said the great huge bear, in his great huge voice. “Somebody has been at my porridge!” said the middle bear, in his middle voice. Then the little, small wee bear looked at his, and there was the spoon in the porridge pot, but the porridge was all gone. “Somebody has been at my porridge, and has eaten it all up!” said the little, small wee bear, in his little, small wee voice. Then the three bears went upstairs into their bedroom. “SOMEBODY HAS BEEN LYING IN MY BED!” said the great, huge bear, in his great, rough, gruff voice. “Somebody has been lying in my bed!” said the middle bear, in his middle voice. And when the small, wee bear came to look at his bed, there was the bed cover in its place, and the angelic face of a little girl snoring away, fast asleep. “Somebody has been lying in my bed, and here she is!” Said the little, small wee bear, in his little, small wee voice. Goldilocks jumped off the bed and ran downstairs, out of the door and down the garden path. She ran and she ran until she reached the house of her grandmama. When she told her grandmama about the house of the three bears who lived in the wood, her granny said: “My my, what a wild imagination you have, child!” Storynory was founded by Hugh Fraser and Matthew Lynn. Check out Storynory on iTunes, too! CONNECT WITH Storynory  Website | Twitter | Facebook CONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook Group | Facebook Page | Instagram | Newsletter | Pinterest | Twitter | YouTube This post contains affiliate links Leave a comment for us below. We love to hear from YOU! The post Storynory: GOLDILOCKS AND THE THREE BEARS appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit Podcast: Peg + Cat The Penguin Problem

  Listen

  Feb 18 2017

  Podcast Ep 42 | Peg + Cat The Penguin Problem On this episode of KidLit Podcast join Rocco, Jennifer Oxley and Billy Aronson as they help Peg and Cat solve a problem at the Animal Winter Games. The skiing penguins in the race keep crashing into things! And to make matters worse they don’t even know the terms “over,” “under,” and “in between!” Find out how Peg and Cat help solve the problem in this episode of KidLit Podcast! ABOUT THE BOOKS Peg + Cat The Penguin Problem Written by Jennifer Oxley & Billy Aronson Peg and Cat are at the South Pole preparing to watch the ski race at the Animal Winter Games. Suddenly they spy the Penguins zooming downhill. CRASH! The Penguins keep slamming into things So they all try again, with Peg shouting directions each time they come to a hurdle. “Go over Go under Go in between ” But the Penguins still have no clue, because they don t know what over, under, and in between mean. Luckily, Cat points out some directional arrows to follow! ABOUT JENNIFER OXLEY Jennifer Oxley was born in Hollywood, California and caught the filmmaking bug early – she made her first film at the age of seven. Since then she has directed fifteen short films for Sesame Street, as well as the award-winning adaptation of Spike Lee and Tanya Lewis Lee’s children’s book, Please, Baby, Please. Her latest film, The Music Box, was acquired by The Museum of Modern Art for their permanent children’s film collection. Her work in children’s television includes directing and artistic credits. Jennifer is the recipient of an Emmy Award for her role as director on Little Bill, and she created the look and animation style of The Wonder Pets!, which won an Environmental Media Award and the prestigious Japan Prize. Most recently Jennifer teamed up with Billy Aronson to create Peg + Cat for PBS Kids, and is co-founder of 9ate7 Productions. CONNECT WITH JENNIFER OXLEY Website | Facebook | Twitter ABOUT BILLY ARONSON Billy Aronson is a playwright and writer. Aronson is probably best known for creating the original concept behind the Tony award-winning rock opera Rent. He’s written several plays and musicals. Also, he’s written for popular children’s shows, and cartoons including Courage the Cowardly, Codename: Kids Next Door, The Backyardigans, The Wonder Pets, and Beavis and Butthead. Aronson attended Princeton University. He counts several plays by Shakespeare, Looney Tunes, and The Brothers Grimm among his influences. Billy Aronson is a co-creator of Peg + Cat for PBS Kids, and is co-founder of 9ate7 Productions, with Jennifer Oxley. CONNECT WITH BILLY ARONSON Website | Facebook CONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook Group | Facebook Page | Instagram | Newsletter | Pinterest | Twitter | YouTube Did you like this show? Leave a comment for us below. We love to hear from YOU!  This post contains affiliate links. The post KidLit Podcast: Peg + Cat The Penguin Problem appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit Podcast with Andrea Davis Pinkney A POEM FOR PETER

  Listen

  Jan 26 2017

  Podcast Ep 41 | Andrea Davis Pinkney Join Rocco and Andrea Davis Pinkney as they chat about her picture book biography: A POEM FOR PETER, on this episode of KidLit Podcast. Learn the history of Ezra Jack Keats and celebrate his 100th birthday. Andrea even discusses the Red Mitten Project with First Book, a nonprofit organization dedicated to giving books to children in need. WATCH ANDREA’S STORYMAKERS EPISODE HERE! ABOUT THE BOOKS A Poem for Peter Written by Andrea Davis Pinkney; illustrated by Steve Johnson & Lou Fancher For more than two decades, Ezra had kept pinned to his wall a series of photographs of an adorable African American child. In Keats’s hands, the boy morphed into Peter, a boy in a red snowsuit, out enjoying the pristine snow; the book became The Snowy Day, winner of the Caldecott Medal, the first mainstream book to feature an African American child. It was also the first of many books featuring Peter and the children of his and Keats’s neighborhood. Andrea Davis Pinkney’s lyrical narrative tells the inspiring story of a boy who pursued a dream, and who, in turn, inspired generations of other dreamers.  Sit-In Written by Andrea Davis Pinkney; illustrated by Brian Pinkney This picture book is a celebration of the 50th anniversary of the momentous Woolworth’s lunch counter sit-in, when four college students staged a peaceful protest that became a defining moment in the struggle for racial equality and the growing civil rights movement. ABOUT ANDREA DAVIS PINKNEY Andrea Davis Pinkney is the New York Times bestselling and award-winning author of numerous books for children and young adults, including picture books, novels, works of historical fiction and nonfiction. Her books have been awarded multiple Coretta Scott King Book Awards, Jane Addams Children’s Literature Honor citations, four NAACP Image Award nominations, the Boston Globe/Horn Book Honor medal, as well as several Parenting Publication Gold Medals, and American Library Association Notable Book citations. CONNECT WITH ANDREA DAVIS PINKNEY Website | Facebook | Twitter  CONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook Group | Facebook Page | Instagram | Newsletter | Pinterest | Twitter | YouTube This post contains affiliate links. The post KidLit Podcast with Andrea Davis Pinkney A POEM FOR PETER appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit Podcast: Richard Michelson

  Listen

  Jan 23 2017

  Podcast Ep 43 | Richard Michelson Calling all Star Trek fans! On this episode of KidLit Podcast Richard Michelson tells us the story about Leonard Nimoy’s life and his love for the performing arts. Leonard’s parents, who were immigrants, felt out of place in America and did not understand his dream of becoming an actor. Find out how he made his dream come true and bigger than he could have ever imagined! WATCH RICHARD’S STORYMAKERS EPISODE HERE! ABOUT THE BOOK FASCINATING – The Life of Leonard Nimoy Written by Richard Michelson, illustrated by Edel Rodriguez Random House/Alfred A. Knopf Books for Young Readers Fascinating is the story of how one boy followed his dreams to become one of the most beloved figures of our time. In Leonard Nimoy’s profound absence it is so lucky that his dear friend Richard Michelson has thought to bring us this richly illustrated account of his inspiring life. Together with Edel Rodriguez they beautifully capture some of the highlights of Leonard’s journey from immigrants son in Boston’s west end to one of the most iconic and recognizable characters in the world. Richard Michelson — Photo by Leonard Nimoy ABOUT RICHARD MICHELSON Richard Michelson’s many books for children, teens and adults have been listed among the Ten Best of the Year by The New York Times, Publishers Weekly, and The New Yorker; and among the best Dozen of the Decade by Amazon.com. He has been a finalist for the Massachusetts Book Award (3X), the National Jewish Book Award (3X), the Harlem Book Fest Wheatley Award, and he is the only author ever awarded both the Sydney Taylor Gold and Silver Medals in a single year from the Association of Jewish Librarians. CONNECT WITH RICHARD MICHELSON Website | Facebook | R. Michelson Galleries CONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook Group | Facebook Page | Instagram | Newsletter | Pinterest | Twitter | YouTube Learn more about the Sydney Taylor Book Award, the Yiddish Book Center and the PJ Library. Did you like this episode? Leave a comment for us below. We love to hear from YOU!  This post contains affiliate links.   The post KidLit Podcast: Richard Michelson appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• Storynory: THE GRASSHOPPER AND THE ANTS

  Listen

  Jan 12 2017

    It’s story time with Storynory! Join us this time with a grasshopper who loves to play music, while the ants work, work, work in THE GRASSHOPPER AND THE ANTS. Read by Natasha Adapted by Bertie Picture by Milo Winter I’m an artist, and as everyone knows, artists are usually rather poor. Normally, I don’t mind about that. When the sun is shining, I sit on my favourite blade of grass and play music for everyone to listen to. I have lots of friends, and together we’ve formed an orchestra. Everyone loves our music and says how cheerful it makes them feel – well almost everyone. There’s a family of ants who never stop to listen. They take themselves far too seriously for music or enjoyment. All they do is work, work, work – even when the sun is shining. “Hey You Ants,” I said to them. “It’s a lovely summer’s day. Why don’t you rest your feet for a while, and listen to my sweet music?” “No time to stop,” one of them said, panting away. “We’re far too busy stocking up food for winter.” The months went by, and the days got shorter and colder. I was shivering so much that I couldn’t even sing. A hard frost was on the ground, and there wasn’t a crumb to eat. I was so hungry! So I went to see that busy family of ants and said: “Please Sirs, I’m a poor starving musician. Spare me a few crumbs from your store of food.” Do you know what? Those ants just turned their noses up at me. They were so stingy that they wouldn’t share any of their food. Oh Well, I’ll just have to go hungry this winter. In the New Year, I’ll make a resolution. When the times are good, I’ll remember to save some food for a rainy day. Storynory was founded by Hugh Fraser and Matthew Lynn. Check out Storynory on iTunes, too! CONNECT WITH Storynory  Website | Twitter | Facebook CONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook Group | Facebook Page | Instagram | Newsletter | Pinterest | Twitter | YouTube This post contains affiliate links Leave a comment for us below. We love to hear from YOU! The post Storynory: THE GRASSHOPPER AND THE ANTS appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• Storynory: THE FOX AND THE CROW

  Listen

  Jan 03 2017

  It’s story time with Storynory! Did you know that foxes love cheese? Read THE FOX AND THE CROW from Aesop’s Fables together with us! (spoken text is a little shorter than this) I bet you can’t guess what I like to eat best of all? Yes, I knew that you would say that foxes like to eat hens best, and stolen ones at that. I don’t mind admitting that I wouldn’t ever say no to a nice fat chicken wing once in a while. But not many people know that what foxes appreciate even more than chicken, is a nice piece of cheese once in a while. Well today I ate a wonderfully rich and creamy slice of cheddar for my breakfast. It was kindly given to me by a beautiful black-feathered bird whose voice is even more wonderful than her looks. No, I don’t mean a sky-lark, or a fancy bird of paradise. I’m talking about Miss Crow, up in that tree. It was a fine bright morning, and I was following my sharp nose through the woods in search of a bite to eat, when I caught a cheesy smell on the breeze. I looked up into the tree and there on the branch I saw Miss Crow, looking terribly pleased with herself, for in her beak she held a large piece of cheese. It was stolen, no doubt, from the farmer over the hill, but I’m not one to go around accusing people of this and that. I called up to my neighbour and said: “Good morning Miss Crow, you are looking very lovely today, if I may say so.” Miss Crow cocked her head on one side and looked at me with her beady little eye, but she kept her beak firmly closed on the cheese. “Such a charming creature,” I mused to myself, making sure nevertheless that she could overhear. “Such a fine sheen on those wondrous black feathers. What wings! What legs! And that beak, exquisite!” I could see that Miss Crow was paying close attention to my words, even though she was pretending ever so hard not to hear. So I gazed up at the tree with admiration and love in my eyes and said: “Ah, my heart is smitten by this wonderful bird. If only I could hear her voice. I’m sure that such a charming creature must sing most sweetly! If I could but hear one line of her song, I would hail her as the Princess of The Forest!” Now I could see my words had hit home. Swelling with pride, Miss Crow puffed up her feathers and began to sing the most lovely music I have ever heard. “CAAWWWWWWWWW!” Well alright, I know that you are saying that Miss Crow’s voice is not exactly star quality, but to me that “cawww!” was just the sound that I’d been waiting for. Because as soon as she opened her beak, the cheese fell to the ground and I snapped up my breakfast. Which only goes to show that: Flattery will get you everywhere. Storynory was founded by Hugh Fraser and Matthew Lynn. Check out Storynory on iTunes, too! CONNECT WITH Storynory  Website | Twitter | Facebook CONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook Group | Facebook Page | Instagram | Newsletter | Pinterest | Twitter | YouTube This post contains affiliate links Leave a comment for us below. We love to hear from YOU! The post Storynory: THE FOX AND THE CROW appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit Podcast: KidLit TV Holiday Special

  Listen

  Dec 12 2016

  Podcast Ep 39 | KidLit TV Holiday Special Happy Holidays from KidLit TV! On this episode of KidLit Podcast, Rocco and three special guests review books perfect for stocking stuffers. These books are great for family story time by the fireplace, or a Christmas bedtime story. Reading these books will cause visions of sugar–plums to dance in your heads even after Christmas. Also stay tuned for a special shout out to Kathy Bates for her performance in The Great Gilly Hopkins! In this episode you’ll learn about: Over 20 holiday books and book gifts A new release celebrating Tomi Ungerer’s 80th birthday Paul Zelinsky’s Make Way For Ducklings poster The new Snow Day Peter plush doll by MerryMakers The Great Gilly Hopkins Movie Books to celebrate the 200th anniversary of The Nutcracker and the Mouse King Another idea to spread holiday cheer is the Red Mitten Campaign. Every purchased copy of Poem for Peter, First Book will be giving out a pair of red mittens with each book! You can find ALL of the KidLit TV Holiday Special 2016 books online at McNally Jackson.   WATCH THE STORYMAKERS 2016 HOLIDAY SPECIAL HERE! CONNECT WITH LUANN TOTH — MANAGING EDITOR. SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL REVIEWS Website |Twitter CONNECT WITH CHRISTOPHER LASSEN  — BOOK OPS, NY PUBLIC LIBRARY & BROOKLYN PUBLIC LIBRARY Twitter CONNECT WITH CRISTIN STICKLES — CHILDREN’S & YOUNG ADULT BUYER, MCNALLY JACKSON BOOKS Twitter CONNECT WITH SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL Website | Facebook | Twitter CONNECT WITH BOOK OPS NY Website  CONNECT WITH  NY PUBLIC LIBRARY Website | Facebook | Twitter CONNECT WITH BROOKLYN PUBLIC LIBRARY Website | Facebook | Twitter CONNECT WITH MCNALLY JACKSON BOOKS Website | Twitter CONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook Group | Facebook Page | Instagram | Newsletter | Pinterest | Twitter | YouTube This post contains affiliate links Did you like this article? Leave a comment for us below. We love to hear from YOU! The post KidLit Podcast: KidLit TV Holiday Special appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit Podcast: School Library Journal Best of 2016

  Listen

  Nov 16 2016

  Podcast Ep 38 | School Library Journal Best of 2016 On this episode of KidLit Podcast Rocco Staino chats with School Library Journal editors about the Best of 2016 list from books, to apps, to even DVDs and audiobooks! Kiera Parrott, Luann Toth, Della Farrell, Mahnaz Dar, and Kent Turner reveal their picks for 2016’s picture books, middle grade and YA. You can discover the entire list here: http://www.slj.com/bestbooks SLJ Review Editors: Kiera Parrott Luann Toth Della Farrell Mahnaz Dar Kent Turner Shelley Diaz (is on maternity leave!) and Daryl Grabarek (is finishing up her school day!) WATCH THE BEST OF 2016 WITH SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL HERE !   Illustration by Christian Robinson Chat with us about books and more in the comment section below! SLJ LIVE STREAM SCHEDULE 1 – Open 2 – Live from the KidLit TV Studio! Host Rocco Staino welcomes SLJ Editors Kiera Parrott, Luann Toth, Della Farrell, Mahnaz Dar, and Kent Turner. (Shelley Diaz is on maternity leave & Daryl Grabarek is finishing up her school day!) Featured Best of 2016 Picture Books Featured Best of 2016 Middle Grade  3 – Sponsor Break #1 4 – Live in the Studio Featured Best of 2016 Young Adult Featured Best of 2016 Non-fiction 5 – Sponsor Break #2 6 -Live in the Studio Sneak Peek @ Best Adult Books 4 Teens, Top 10 Audiobooks, Apps, Latinx Books, Graphic Novels and more! 7 – Close Thank you for watching! CREDITS: Producer – Julie Gribble Camera – Alex Swerdlowe The post KidLit Podcast: School Library Journal Best of 2016 appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit Podcast: The Great Gilly Hopkins

  Listen

  Oct 24 2016

  Podcast Ep 37 | The Great Gilly Hopkins  Are you a fan of Katherine Paterson’s books? Have you ever read The Great Gilly Hopkins? StoryMakers host Rocco Staino catches up with Katherine Paterson and her son David Paterson at the New York Public Library to chat about their latest film: The Great Gilly Hopkins! Katherine hopes this film will help inspire others to make a difference in a child’s life around the world. WATCH THE GREAT GILLY HOPKINS STORYMAKERS ON LOCATION EPISODE HERE!   ABOUT THE BOOK  The Great Gilly Hopkins Written by Katherine Paterson Eleven-year-old Gilly has been stuck in more foster families than she can remember, and she’s disliked them all. She has a reputation for being brash, brilliant, and completely unmanageable, and that’s the way she likes it. So when she’s sent to live with Mrs. Trotter and William Ernest by far the strangest family yet she knows it’s only a temporary problem. ABOUT KATHERINE PATERSON Katherine Paterson is the author of more than 30 books, including 16 novels for children and young people. She has twice won the Newbery Medal, for Bridge to Terabithia in 1978 and Jacob Have I Loved in 1981. The Master Puppeteer won the National Book Award in 1977 and The Great Gilly Hopkins won the National Book Award in 1979 and was also a Newbery Honor Book. For the body of her work she received the Hans Christian Andersen Award in 1998, the Astrid Lindgren Memorial Award in 2006, and in 2000 was named a Living Legend by the Library of Congress. CONNECT WITH KATHERINE PATERSON Facebook | Youtube | Website CONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook Group | Facebook Page | Instagram | Newsletter | Pinterest | Twitter | YouTube This post contains affiliate links. All Rafflecopter entrants must reside in the United States and be at least 13 years old. Did you like this article? Leave a comment for us below. We love to hear from YOU! The post KidLit Podcast: The Great Gilly Hopkins appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit Podcast: Aram Kim

  Listen

  Oct 20 2016

  Podcast Ep 36 | Aram Kim Love cats? How about adventure? StoryMakers host Rocco Staino interviews author and illustrator Aram Kim, the creator of Cat On The Bus! Young readers will have fun looking for clues in this picture book! Aram started creating art at a young age; she loved drawing princesses and horses, and coloring! However, once she entered high school, she stopped focusing on art to study math and science. When she returned to America, she picked up her old talent and created art over and over again! Aram’s picture book was inspired by a photo she found on the internet. It was a cat staying warm on a bus during a cold, harsh winter. The photo warmed Aram’s heart so much that she created her story: Cat On The Bus! An now, YOU can suggest a name for the spotted cat in Cat On The Bus! Leave a message for Aram in the comment section below! WATCH ARAM’S EPISODE OF STORYMAKERS HERE! ABOUT THE BOOK Cat on the Bus Written and illustrated by Aram Kim. This nearly wordless book uses  striking bold illustrations to tell the story of a homeless cat who meets an grandfather on a bus and finally finds a home. A cat enters a grocery store in search of food, but the proprietor shoos her away. A bus approaches offering shelter, but the large-handed, scary-faced driver shouts SCRAM when another bus approaches, the cat runs in with a WHOOSH! The cat meets a grandfatherly gentleman who changes the cat’s circumstances forever. ABOUT ARAM KIM Aram Kim is a New York-based children’s book author/illustrator. She was born in Cincinnati, Ohio and when she was two, her family moved back to South Korea. When Aram grew up, she came to New York to study illustration. She is currently living in Queens, NY, where she is happily surrounded by diverse food and culture. She has been working for various publications and participating in numerous exhibitions and collaboration projects. CONNECT WITH ARAM KIM Website | Twitter | Tumblr CONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook Group | Facebook Page | Instagram | Newsletter | Pinterest | Twitter | YouTube Did you like this article? Leave a comment for us below. We love to hear from YOU!     The post KidLit Podcast: Aram Kim appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit Podcast: New York City Comic Con

  Listen

  Oct 20 2016

  Podcast Ep 35 | New York Comic Con! Did you miss the 2016 New York Comic Con? KidLit TV’s Rocco Staino joins the cosplay, manga, comic and book fun at the East Coast’s largest pop-culture convention. Every year, New York Comic Con showcases the latest and greatest in comics, novels, graphic novels, anime, manga, video games, toys, movies and television shows. Panels, booths and autograph sessions give fans a chance to meet their favorite media stars and see their latest creations! During his NYCC adventure, Rocco interviewed Stacy King, Delia Sherman, Box Brown, John Patrick Green, Rebecca Mock and Scott Westerfeld! Stacy King chatted about manga classics: classic novels revamped into manga! Stacy believes that adapting classics to manga will help spark interest in classics for young readers. From shape-shifters to the game of Tetris, the ideas at Comic Con continue to grow each year! WATCH THE STORYMAKERS ON LOCATION EPISODE HERE! The post KidLit Podcast: New York City Comic Con appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit Podcast: Patrick McDonnell

  Listen

  Oct 08 2016

  Podcast Ep 34 | Patrick McDonnell Do you ever feel like you want to disconnect from your devices, and explore the outside world? Patrick McDonnell’s new book Tek: The Modern Cave Boy, encourages kids to put down their phones, tablets and video games and go on a real life adventure! Tek, a young cave boy who is glued to technology! You won’t see this young boy without his cell phone or video games! Can anyone in the village convince Tek to unplug and come outside into the big, beautiful world? StoryMakers’ Host Rocco Staino interviews Patrick who talks all about the creation of Tek: The Modern Cave Boy and his most popular picture books, Thank You and Goodnight and A Perfectly Messed-Up. Your kids might also be familiar with his famous comic strip MUTTS! Thank You and Goodnight is a goodnight tale about a pajama party featuring storybook characters such as Winnie The Pooh! At the end of the fun and exciting night, all of the characters say thank you for the day, the night, and good friends! Next, comes A Perfectly Messed-Up Story! This picture book follows Little Louie’s who’s story keeps getting messed up! The book tells an important message, life is not perfect, but everyone should love what it is! WATCH PATRICK’S STORYMAKERS EPISODE HERE! ABOUT THE BOOKS A Perfectly Messed-Up Story Written and illustrated Patrick McDonnell Published by Little, Brown Books for Young Readers Little Louie’s story keeps getting messed up, and he’s not happy about it. What’s the point of telling his tale if he can’t tell it perfectly? But when he stops and takes a deep breath, he realizes that everything is actually just fine, and his story is a good one–imperfections and all. Thank You and Good Night Written and illustrated Patrick McDonnell Published by Little, Brown Books for Young Readers During a fun pajama party, three animal friends dance and play, but at last everyone is getting sleepy. Is it time for bed yet? Not before taking the time to say thank you for the day, the night, and good friends. Tek: The Modern Cave Boy Written and illustrated Patrick McDonnell Published by Little, Brown Books for Young Readers Tek is a cave boy in love with tech: his tablet, video games, phone, and TV keep him deep in his cave, glued to his devices, day in and day out. He never sees his friends or family anymore–and his ability to communicate has devolved to just one word: “UGH” Can anyone in the village convince Tek to unplug and come outside into the big, beautiful world? ABOUT PATRICK MCDONNELL In 1994 Patrick McDonnell created the comic strip MUTTS, which now appears in over 700 newspapers in 20 countries. MUTTS has been described by Peanuts creator Charles Schulz as “One of the best comic strips of all time.” In 2005, McDonnell embarked on a children’s book career. His first children’s book The Gift of Nothing quickly became a New York Times Best Seller. McDonnell is involved with many animal and environmental charities, and is a member of the board of directors for both the HSUS and the Fund for Animals. His characters have been enlisted by the U.S. Marines for their 2006 Toys for Tots holiday poster, the American Library Association’s 2007 “Read!” poster, and by the HSUS for their humane postage stamps. CONNECT WITH PATRICK MCDONNELL Facebook | Twitter | Website CONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook Group | Facebook Page | Instagram | Newsletter | Pinterest | Twitter | YouTube This post contains affiliate links. All Rafflecopter entrants must reside in the United States and be at least 13 years old. Did you like this article? Leave a comment for us below. We love to hear from YOU! The post KidLit Podcast: Patrick McDonnell appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit Podcast: Jane Zalben

  Listen

  Oct 04 2016

  Podcast Ep. 33 | Jane Zalben Are your kids or students budding artists? Do they have a knack for creativity? Join Rocco on this episode of KidLit Podcast as he interviews the children’s literature author and illustrator Jane Breskin Zalben! Jane is the author of over forty books that encourage creativity and artistic development. Young artists will love diving into Jane’s books full of creative illustrations and inspiring ideas! In Mousterpiece follow Jansen the mouse living in an art museum, as she discovers new art each day that sparks her creative side! Jane’s book Happy New Year, Beni captures the idea of starting the New Year off right and the joy of the holidays. Jane then discusses one of her books in her trilogy about peace, Path to Peace. In Path to Peace, she illustrates sixteen individuals who are considered peacemakers in this world. The novel Four Seasons for middle grade and young adults, follows Allegra Katz, a pianist prodigy who begins studying at Julliard School in New York! However Allegra begins to question herself. Do I even love piano? Why do I play? How much longer can I stand this pressure? Join us on a quest to: Find out how and when Jane fell in love with contemporary art. See how Jane starts her picture books! Discover one of many food recipes create by Jane! Check out one of Jane’s newest middle grade and YA novels! WATCH JANE’S EPISODE OF STORYMAKERS HERE: We’re giving away a Bundle of Four Books by Jane Zalben! You can win Mousterpiece, Happy New Year, Beni, Paths to Peace, and Four Seasons! The giveaway ends at 11:59 PM on November 11, 2016. ENTER NOW!a Rafflecopter giveaway ABOUT THE BOOKS Mousterpiece Written and illustrated by Jane Zalben Published by Roaring Brook Press Jansen the mouse discovers the art of such greats as Picasso, Matisse, and Warhol, the bright, bold colors and shapes capture her imagination and spark her creativity. Join Jansen on a colorful tour of contemporary art in this new work from an acclaimed author and illustrator. Happy New Year, Beni Written and Illustrated by Jane Zalben Published Roaring Brook Press Beni and Sara are going to Grandma and Grandpa’s for the holidays. Everyone will be there– including cousin Max. But Max almost spoils the holiday for everyone– It’s only when Grandpa takes explains the traditions that Max is willing to start the new year off right. Paths to Peace Written and Illustrated by Jane Zalben Published by Dutton Children’s Books Mahatma Gandhi, Eleanor Roosevelt, Cesar Chavez, Aung San Suu Kyi, and the most recent Nobel Prize winner, Dr.Wangari Maathai, are some of the people Jane chose to represent different eras and parts of the globe. Four Season Written by Jane Zalben Published Alfred A. Knopf Books for Young Readers Allegra Katz has been playing piano since she was four. But these aren’t just any piano lessons. She studies at the Julliard School in New York, where careers are being formed—or not. ABOUT JANE ZALBEN Jane Breskin Zalben’s acclaimed picture books and novels explore basic issues of friendship, family, self-reliance, and inner strength. It’s obvious that Jane Breskin Zalben is passionate about her work — so much so that she dates the events in her life by what book she was working on at the time. However, she believes that her family is even more important; Beni’s First Chanukah, the first in a series of Jewish Holiday books for children, was inspired by and dedicated to her sons, Alexander and Jonathan. The special times she has shared with her family motivated her to create over forty books. CONNECT WITH JANE ZALBEN Facebook | Twitter | Website CONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook Group | Facebook Page | Instagram | Newsletter | Pinterest | Twitter | YouTube This post contains affiliate links. All Rafflecopter entrants must reside in the United States and be at least 13 years old. The post KidLit Podcast: Jane Zalben appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit Podcast with Peter H. Reynolds

  Listen

  Sep 26 2016

  Podcast Ep. 32 | Peter H. Reynolds International Dot Day can be celebrated every day, anywhere in the world. Over 7 million people participated in 2016’s International Dot Day and the numbers are still growing strong! On today’s KidLit Podcast episode StoryMakers host Rocco Staino talks with Peter H. Reynolds, whose book The Dot was the inspiration behind International Dot Day. You’ll also meet the fun and creative characters in his “Creatrilogy” that includes The Dot, Ish, and Sky Color. How did you make your mark this year for International Dot Day? WATCH PETER H. REYNOLDS’ STORYMAKERS EPISODE HERE! ALL ABOUT Peter’s CREATRILOGY The Dot Written and illustrated by Peter H. Reynolds Published by Candlewick Press Vashti is not an artist. She jabs at a blank sheet of paper to make an unremarkable and angry mark. “There,” she says. That one little dot marks the beginning of Vashti’s journey of surprise and self-discovery. Ish Written and illustrated by Peter H. Reynolds Published by Candlewick Press Ramon loves to draw and It makes him happy but, in one split second everything changes. A single reckless remark by Ramon’s older brother, Leon, turns Ramon’s carefree sketches into joyless struggles. Luckily for Ramon his little sister, Marisol, sees the world differently. She opens his eyes to something a lot more valuable than getting things just “right.” Sky Color Written and illustrated by Peter H. Reynolds Published by Candlewick Press Marisol loves to paint. So when her teacher asks her to help make a mural for the school library, she can’t wait to begin! But how can Marisol make a sky without blue paint? MORE Books by Peter! The Water Princess Written by Susan Verde, illustrated by Peter H. Reynolds Published by G.P. Putnam’s Sons Books for Young Readers Princess Gie Gie’s kingdom is a beautiful land. But clean drinking water is scarce in her small African village. Gie Gie cannot bring the water to her kingdom. Every morning, she rises before the sun to make the long journey to the well. Instead of a crown, she wears a heavy pot on her head to collect water.  And she dreams. She dreams of a day when her village will have cool, crystal-clear water of its own. Going Places Written by Paul A. Reynolds, illustrated by Peter H. Reynolds Published by Atheneum Books for Young Readers It’s time for this year’s Going Places contest! Time to build a go-cart enter the race and win. Each kid grabs an identical kit and starts to build their go-cart! Everyone but Maya. Who said it “had” to be a go-cart? And who said there’s only “one” way to cross the finish line? ALL ABOUT PETER H. REYNOLDS Peter H. Reynolds is a New York Times best-selling illustrator who has created many acclaimed books for children. In addition to his Creatrilogy The Dot, Ish,  and Sky Color he is the author-illustrator of Rose’s Garden, The North Star, and So Few of Me. Peter H. Reynolds helps inspire children find their creative side and dream big through his art and writing! Say “Hi” to PETER H. REYNOLDS Website |  Facebook | Twitter | Instagram ALL ABOUT FABLEVISION FableVision Studios is a multi-media production studio that  develops an array of  media that inspire, teaches, and move people to action! FableVision is dedicated to helping ALL learners reach and discover their true potential. Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram ALL ABOUT BLUE BUNNY BOOKS and TOYS Blue Bunny Books and Toys is the perfect place to stop by and experience creativity with your family and friends. Shop for some of your favorite books, join story time every Monday and Tuesday and take part in all kinds of creative activities and events, all at Blue Bunny Books and Toys. Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram CONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook Page | Facebook Group | Instagram | Newsletter | Pinterest | Twitter | YouTube StoryMakers Host: Rocco Staino | Executive Producer: Julie Gribble Did you like this article? Leave a comment for us below. We love to hear from YOU!   The post KidLit Podcast with Peter H. Reynolds appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit Podcast: Aaron Becker

  Listen

  Aug 18 2016

  Podcast Ep 31 | Aaron Becker Here at KidLit TV we love exploring the kid lit world and going on all kinds of bookish journeys with you. What better way to go on a bookish journey than with award-winning and bestselling author/illustrator Aaron Becker? Aaron is the creator of the Journey trilogy, the last book Return wrapping up the adventure of brilliant wordless picture books. Rocco Staino and Aaron go on an incredible journey on this episode of KidLit Podcast, as they explore the Journey trilogy’s far off land of Pallonezia. Some of your favorite classics such as The Wizard of Oz and Where the Wild Things Are are also mentioned, joining in on the adventure. So be sure to jump into this kid lit adventure, only found on KidLit TV ABOUT THE BOOKS Return Written and illustrated by Aaron Becker Published by Candlewick Press Failing to get the attention of her busy father, a lonely girl turns back to a fantastic world for friendship and adventure. It’s her third journey into the enticing realm of kings, emperors, castles, canals, exotic creatures and enchanting landscapes. This time, it will take something truly powerful to persuade her to return home. Quest Written and illustrated by Aaron Becker Published by Candlewick Press A king emerges from a hidden door in a city park, startling two children sheltering from the rain. He  gives the children a map and some strange objects, than he is captured by hostile forces that whisk him back through the enchanted door. Just like that, the children are caught up in a quest to rescue the king and his kingdom from darkness, while illuminating the farthest reaches of their imagination. Colored markers in hand, they make their own way through the portal, under the sea, through a tropical paradise, over a perilous bridge, and high in the air with the help of a winged friend. Journey Written and illustrated by Aaron Becker Published by Candlewick Press A lonely girl draws a magic door on her bedroom wall and through it escapes into a world where wonder, adventure, and danger abound. Red marker in hand, she creates a boat, a balloon, and a flying carpet that carry her on a spectacular journey toward an uncertain destiny. When she is captured by a sinister emperor, only an act of tremendous courage and kindness can set her free. Can it also lead her home and to her heart’s desire? ABOUT AARON BECKER Like many American boys born in the wake of the Apollo missions, Aaron Becker decided early on he would be an astronaut. His mother was an astronomy teacher at a local college in his hometown Baltimore. She would take him along on her nighttime fieldtrips to the observatory; its musky smell relieved with the opening of its domed roof. At some point, he surmised that a career in actual space travel required military training, and this seemed like a lot of work. So he switched gears and started drawing pictures of outer space instead. There was palpable joy in this: creating civilizations and stories filled with a cast of characters of my own design. To be sure, these worlds were reflections of places inside of him. But more importantly, drawing was an immediate path for creating something he could manage on his own terms. These worlds were his and his alone. With a pad of paper and a set of markers, he could pretty much do whatever he wanted. For an eight year old confined by the limitations of his material existence, this seemed like a pretty good deal. CONNECT WITH AARON BECKER Website | Facebook | Twitter | Tumblr | Vimeo CONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook Group | Facebook Page | Instagram | Newsletter | Pinterest | Twitter | YouTube This post contains affiliate links. Did you like this article? Leave a comment for us below. We love to hear from YOU! The post KidLit Podcast: Aaron Becker appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit Podcast: Wendy Mass

  Listen

  Aug 05 2016

  Podcast Ep 30 | Wendy Mass Wendy Mass knows all about teamwork and exploration. There’s proof in all of her books. On this episode of KidLit Podcast, StoryMakers host Rocco Staino interviews Wendy about her new addition to The Candymakers, series The Candymakers and the Great Chocolate Chase. If your middle grade readers have a sweet tooth for adventure, they will love following along with Logan, Daisy, Miles, and Philip while solving a few mysteries. Another book featured in this episode is Wendy Mass and Michael Brawer’s Space Taxi series! Go on an intergalactic ride with co-pilot Archie Morningstar and his dad, and let’s not forget the very strange cat, to help keep the universe safe from all the dangers lurking on every page. Let’s not forget that you’ll learn a few science facts along the way! This post was sponsored by Little, Brown Books for Young Readers. ABOUT THE BOOKS The Candymakers Written by Wendy Mass Published by Little Brown Books for Young Readers Four children have been chosen to compete in a national competition to find the tastiest confection in the country. Who will invent a candy more delicious than the Oozing Crunchorama or the Neon Lightning Chew? Logan, the Candymaker’s son, who can detect the color of chocolate by touch alone? Miles, the boy who is allergic to merry-go-rounds and the color pink? Daisy, the cheerful girl who can lift a fifty-pound lump of taffy like it’s a feather? Or Philip, the suit-and-tie wearing boy who’s always scribbling in a secret notebook? Space Taxi: Archie’s Alien Disguise Written by Wendy Mass and Michael Brawer, illustrated by Elise Gravel Published by Little Brown Books for Young Readers Archie Morningstar’s dad drives a taxi through outer space and with the help of a talking cat named Pockets, Archie and his dad help fight crime across the universe. Archie, his dad, and Pockets visit a planet that resembles medieval Earth in every way but its inhabitants, who have rainbow colored hair and extra eyes. To beat the evil organization B.U.R.P., the trio must disguise themselves as aliens and rescue a princess. When Archie must act on his own, can he find the courage to save the day? Space Taxi: Water Planet Rescue Written by Wendy Mass and Michael Brawer, illustrated by Elise Gravel Published by Little Brown Books for Young Readers Archie Morningstar’s dad drives a taxi through outer space and with the help of a talking cat named Pockets, Archie and his dad help fight crime across the universe. Archie, his dad, and Pockets fly to a planet because someone is stealing the water from this underwater world. Can Archie and Pockets save the day? Space Taxi: Archie Takes Flight Written by Wendy Mass and Michael Brawer, illustrated by Elise Gravel Published by Little Brown Books for Young Readers Archie Morningstar learns a big family secret and helps save the universe. It’s not every day a regular kid like Archie gets to wake up at midnight ,but today is Take Your Kid to Work Day, and Archie is finally allowed to ride along in his dad’s taxi cab. He has been waiting eight years, eight months, and eight days for this moment to arrive.But he’s about to discover his dad is no ordinary cab driver, in fact, he drives an intergalactic “space taxi ” All night long, he shuttles aliens from one corner of the universe to another. And being a space taxi copilot is no easy task: Archie must steer them into wormholes, keep them from crashing into planets, deal with a very unusual cat, and save the universe from an evil mastermind ABOUT WENDY MASS Wendy Mass is the New York Times bestselling author of eighteen novels for young people (which have been translated into 20 languages and nominated for 76 state book awards), including A Mango-Shaped Space (which was awarded the Schneider Family Book Award by the American Library Association), Leap Day, the Twice Upon a Time fairy tale series, Every Soul a Star, 11 Birthdays, Heaven Looks a Lot Like the Mall, Jeremy Fink and the Meaning of Life, and Finally, The Candymakers , and 13 Gifts. Her latest books are The Last Present, Pi in the Sky, and a new early reader series called Space Taxi. Wendy wrote the storyline for an episode of the television show Monk, entitled “Mr. Monk Goes to the Theatre,” which aired during the show’s second season. She tells people her hobbies are hiking and photography, but really they’re collecting candy bar wrappers and searching for buried treasure with her metal detector. She lives with her family in New Jersey. CONNECT WITH WENDY MASS Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram CONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook Group | Facebook Page | Instagram | Newsletter | Pinterest | Twitter | YouTube This post contains affiliate links. Did you like this article? Leave a comment for us below. We love to hear from YOU! The post KidLit Podcast: Wendy Mass appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit Podcast: Barbara McClintock

  Listen

  Jul 14 2016

  Podcast Ep 29 | Barbara McClintock On today’s episode of KidLit Podcast, Barbara McClintock tells StoryMakers host Rocco Staino all about her childhood inspirations, illustrations, and latest books. Barbara’s book Emma and Julia Love Ballet is all about Emma, a young girl dreaming to do ballet, and Julia, a professional ballet dancer. And to celebrate the book, Barbara even teaches Rocco some beginner ballet moves! Barbara McClintock also tells us she’s adding a new book to the Lost and Found series! The brother and sister duo, Adele and Simon, are off to China on their latest adventure, and Barbara will be taking your suggestions on where they should travel next! So be sure to jump into this kid lit adventure, only found on KidLit TV! Where should Adele and Simon travel to next? Let us know in the comment section HERE! Barbara McClintock will be checking in!   ABOUT THE BOOKS Emma and Julia Love Ballet Written and illustrated by Barbara McClintock Published by Scholastic Press Emma is little. Julia is big. They both love ballet. Emma takes ballet lessons. So does Julia. Emma is learning to be a ballerina. Julia is a professional ballerina. They are both excited about the big performance in the theater tonight. Emma will be watching from the audience. Julia will be dancing onstage! And afterward, Emma will go backstage to meet her ballet hero! Barbara McClintock’s richly illustrated, heartwarming story is sure to become a perennial favorite. Lost and Found: Adele and Simon in China Published by Farrar, Straus and Giroux (BYR). October 25, 2016. Now available for pre-order at IndieBound.org     WATCH BARBARA MCCLINTOCK’S STORYMAKERS EPISODE HERE! ABOUT BARBARA MCCLINTOCK Award-winning children’s book author and illustrator Barbara McClintock draws like a dream; her “beautifully restrained use of color may evoke a long-ago time, but her compositions are so dynamic that there’s always something for contemporary children to discover.” [Michael Cart, Booklist] Full of humor and wit and strong characterizations, her books are timeless charmers. Barbara’s books have won 5 New York Times Best Books awards, a New York Times Notable Book citation, a Boston Globe/Horn Book Honor award, and numerous other awards, recommended/best book lists, and starred reviews. Click here to learn more about Barbara! CONNECT WITH BARBARA McCLINTOCK Website CONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook Group | Facebook Page | Instagram | Newsletter | Pinterest | Twitter | YouTube StoryMakers Host: Rocco Staino | Executive Producer: Julie Gribble  Did you like this article? Leave a comment for us below. We love to hear from YOU!   The post KidLit Podcast: Barbara McClintock appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit Podcast: Tish Rabe

  Listen

  Jun 02 2016

  Podcast Ep 28 | Tish Rabe KidLit TV is proud to present a special StoryMakers episode with author Tish Rabe, the creative mind behind the latest Dr. Seuss books. These spin-off books based on the PBS Kids series, “The Cat In the Hat Knows A Lot About That!” makes learning about subjects including space, health, and biology seem beyond fun! So jump into this kid lit adventure with us (and the Cat) only found on KidLit TV. PBS Kids’ The Cat in the Hat Knows a Lot About That website is the place to play games, download printables, and get literacy tips for parents! Watch Tish’s Episode of StoryMakers HERE! ABOUT THE BOOKS Love You, Hug You, Read to You! Written by Tish Rabe, illustrated by Frank Enderby Published by Random House Books for Young Readers, Board Books There are three things I’ll always do … love you, hug you, read to you. The simple promise of togetherness offered in this board book is enhanced by interactive prompts throughout, encouraging parents to engage with their child while reading. Studies show that asking questions, like the ones in this book, helps children learn to read faster than if they just listen to a story. Love and literacy are gifts we can give to our children every day Also available as bilingual (Spanish and English) edition entitled ¡Te amo, te abrazo, leo contigo! Te amo, te Abrazo, leo contigo!/Love You, Hug You, Read to You! Written by Tish Rabe, illustrated by Frank Enderby Published by Random House Books for Young Readers, Board Books ¡Te amo, te Abrazo, Leo Contigo!/Love You, Hug You, Read to You! is a bi-lingual book written in both Spanish and English. Studies have shown that asking children’s questions about what’s happening in a book helps them learn to read faster than if they just sit and listen to a story so this book features interactive questions in both languages. It also offers the opportunity for Spanish speakers to learn English and English speakers to learn Spanish! Oh, Baby, the Places You’ll Go! Written by Tish Rabe, illustrated by Dr. Seuss Published by Random House Books for Young Readers, Board Books Artfully adapted almost entirely from Ted Geisel’s work, this introduction to the world of Dr. Seuss is a must for expectant parents and new babies In simple rhymed verse, author Tish Rabe extolls the joys awaiting newborns when they meet the Cat in the Hat, Horton the Elephant, Yertle the Turtle, the Great Birthday Bird, the Grinch, and twenty-five other beloved Seuss characters. Written to be read aloud to babies and babies-to-be (“yes,” babies in utero ), the book includes a brief introduction by “Mrs.” Dr. Seuss Audrey Geisel revealing how she and Ted were fascinated by the idea that babies could hear sounds while still in the womb and might actually respond to the voices of their parents. A perfect gift for baby showers and newborns, Oh, Baby, the Places You’ll Go is the ideal way to nurture a love of reading and Dr. Seuss in the very youngest children. The I Believe Bunny Written by Tish Rabe, illustrated by Frank Enderby Published by Thomas Nelson Introducing the I Believe Bunny—a delightful new series that helps kids learn about believing, sharing, and putting their faith into action. Children will identify with Bunny and learn along with him that God is always there to help. Prayer works! Little Mouse is in trouble and Bunny is the only one nearby to help her. But, Bunny is too small. He has to set aside his own fear and trust in God. By putting his faith into action, Bunny is able to help Little Mouse and save the day. Not only does this precious book teach the importance of calling on God for our every need, it helps children remember to be thankful for God’s work in their lives. Clam-I-Am Written by Tish Rabe, illustrated by Aristides Ruiz and Joe Mathieu Published by Random House Books for Young Readers Normal the Fish is hosting a seaside talkshow for the Fish Channel and the Cat in the Hat and Thing One and Thing Two are cameracat and crew. Among Norval’s special guests are his old friend Clam-I-Am (a shy gal who lives in the sand and likes to spit), along with horseshoe and hermit crabs, jellyfish, sand fleas, starfish, seagulls, and miscellaneous mollusks. Seaweed, seaglass, tides, tidal pools, dunes, driftwood, and waves make cameo appearances, too. “Warning: Beginning readers are apt to be swept away.” There’s No Place Like Space: All About Our Solar System Written by Tish Rabe, illustrated by Dr. Seuss and Aristides Ruiz Published by Random House Books for Young Readers “Au revoir,” Pluto In this newly revised, bestselling backlist title, beginning readers and budding astronomers are launched on a wild trip to visit the now “eight “planets in our solar system (per the International Astronomical Union’s 2006 decision to downgrade Pluto from a planet to a dwarf planet), along with the Cat in the Hat, Thing One, Thing Two, Dick, and Sally. It’s a reading adventure that’s out of this world. ABOUT TISH RABE Wish Rabe has written over 160 children’s books for Sesame Street, Disney, Blue’s Clues, Curious George, Huff and Puff and many others. In 1996 — five years after the death of Dr. Seuss — she was selected by Dr. Seuss Enterprises to create The Cat in the Hat’s Learning Library, a new line of rhyming science books for early readers. A television series based on these books, The Cat in the Hat Knows a Lot About That, airs daily on PBS Kids. Ms. Rabe also wrote the popular Dr. Seuss book for parents-to-be Oh the Places You’ll Go to be read in Utero! and created her own character, The I Believe Bunny, which won a Mom’s Choice Award for Best Picture Book – Gold. She also wrote scripts for children’s television series including “Clifford”, “Clifford’s Puppy Days” and was the Head Writer for “I Spy!” for Scholastic Entertainment and HBO family. In 1982, she traveled to China with Jim Henson’s Muppets to produce “Big Bird in China”, which won the Emmy for Best Children’s Special for NBC. Later that year, she became Senior Producer of a new science series for kids on PBS called “3-2-1 Contact”. During the five seasons of the show, Ms. Rabe wrote scripts as well as lyrics for songs including  “What Does Your Garbage Say?”, “Electricity is the Power” and “People are Mammals Too”. Read more, here. CONNECT WITH TISH RABE Website | Facebook | Twitter | YouTube CONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook Group | Facebook Page | Instagram | Newsletter | Pinterest | Twitter | YouTube KidLit Podcast Host: Rocco Staino | Executive Producer: Julie Gribble  Did you like this article? Leave a comment below. We love hearing from you! The post KidLit Podcast: Tish Rabe appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit Podcast: Jennifer Oxley & Billy Aronson

  Listen

  Jun 02 2016

  Podcast Ep 27 | Jennifer Oxley & Billy Aronson The PBS Kids series “Peg + Cat” has parents, teachers and kids of all ages learning about the wonderful world of mathematics. Peg and her best friend Cat get into all kinds of problematic and fun adventures that will have you adding, subtracting and realizing that math is cool and can be used in any situation. “We’re trying to make math cool … It’s for everybody and it’s everywhere. It’s a part of your life.” — Billy Aronson The talented team behind this award-winning series is Jennifer Oxley and Billy Aronson who are also the authors of the Peg+Cat books! In this episode, discover the whimsical world Jennifer and Billy have created with activities, songs and the reveal of the new Peg+Cat book cover! ABOUT THE BOOKS Peg + Cat: The Pizza Problem By Jennifer Oxley and Billy Aronson Published by Candlewick Entertainment What do fractions have to do with pizza? The stars of the Emmy Award winning animated series “Peg + Cat” serve up a delicious new episode. It’s lunchtime at Peg’s Pizza Place. Peg and Cat are excited to take their first order from the Teens only to learn that some of their customers want a whole pizza while one of them wants half a pie. How can Peg and Cat make half a pie when they don t know what “half “is? Luckily, Ramone and Mac are there to help, with a slice up the middle of the pizza. As more customers come in, things get entertaining, with Peg singing a jazzy song and Cat doing a dance. But soon there’s another problem: four orders, but only two and a half pizzas left. Peg is totally freaking out until Cat reminds her that when it comes to halves and wholes, it’s all in how you slice it. Peg + Cat: The Race Car Problem By Jennifer Oxley and Billy Aronson Published by Candlewick Entertainment Peg and Cat, stars of their own Emmy Award winning animated TV series, zoom into a picture book and put math skills to the test in a lively racing adventure. Peg and Cat have built an amazing car out of things they found lying around. They’ve named her Hot Buttered Lightning (since she’s built for speed), and they plan to win the Tallapegga Twenty. If they can make it out of the junkyard, that is. It’s a good thing Peg knows the best shape to use to make wheels and how to count laps to see who is ahead. And it’s lucky that Cat reminds Peg to keep calm when she’s “totally freaking out.” Will Peg and Cat be the first to complete twenty laps and win the Golden Cup? Or will it be one of their quirky competitors? Count on Peg and Cat to rev up young problem-solvers for an exciting race to the finish. WATCH JENNIFER & BILLY’S EPISODE OF STORYMAKERS HERE! ABOUT JENNIFER OXLEY Jennifer Oxley was born in Hollywood, California and caught the filmmaking bug early – she made her first film at the age of seven. Since then she has directed fifteen short films for Sesame Street, as well as the award-winning adaptation of Spike Lee and Tanya Lewis Lee’s children’s book, Please, Baby, Please. Her latest film, The Music Box, was acquired by The Museum of Modern Art for their permanent children’s film collection. Her work in children’s television includes directing and artistic credits. Jennifer is the recipient of an Emmy Award for her role as director on Little Bill, and she created the look and animation style of The Wonder Pets!, which won an Environmental Media Award and the prestigious Japan Prize. Most recently Jennifer teamed up with Billy Aronson to create Peg + Cat for PBS Kids, and is co-founder of 9ate7 Productions. Source: 9ate 7 Productions CONNECT WITH JENNIFER OXLEY Website | Facebook | Twitter ABOUT BILLY ARONSON Billy Aronson is a playwright and writer. Aronson is probably best known for creating the original concept behind the Tony award-winning rock opera Rent. He’s written several plays and musicals. Also, he’s written for popular children’s shows, and cartoons including Courage the Cowardly, Codename: Kids Next Door, The Backyardigans,The Wonder Pets, and Beavis and Butthead. Aronson attended Princeton University. He counts several plays by Shakespeare, Looney Tunes, and The Brothers Grimm among his influences. Billy Aronson is a co-creator of Peg + Cat for PBS Kids, and is co-founder of 9ate7 Productions, with Jennifer Oxley. Learn more about his playwriting, television work, and  here. CONNECT WITH BILLY ARONSON Website | Facebook CONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook Group | Facebook Page | Instagram | Newsletter | Pinterest | Twitter | YouTube KidLit Podcast Host: Rocco Staino | Executive Producer: Julie Gribble  Did you like this article? Leave a comment for us below. We love to hear from YOU! The post KidLit Podcast: Jennifer Oxley & Billy Aronson appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit Podcast: Susan Verde and Emily Arrow

  Listen

  May 13 2016

  Podcast Ep 26 | Susan Verde and Emily Arrow Kids can enjoy Yoga too! This is a motto Susan Verde, author of I Am Yoga has taught kids in schools and events when teaching them how to do yoga. On this episode of KidLit Podcast you’ll discover a whole new world of yoga as Susan Verde teaches StoryMakers host Rocco Staino how to do a yoga routine. Special guest, Emily Arrow, creator of KidLit Tunes guest stars in this episode as she sings the I Am Yoga theme song and tells us all about her Storytime Singalong album! So be sure to jump into this kid lit adventure only found on KidLit TV! ABOUT ‘I AM YOGA’ I Am Yoga Written by Susan Verde, illustrations by Peter H. Reynolds Published by Harry N. Abrams An eagle soaring among the clouds or a star twinkling in the night sky … a camel in the desert or a boat sailing across the sea yoga has the power of transformation. Not only does it strengthen bodies and calm minds, but with a little imagination, it can show us that anything is possible. New York Times bestselling illustrator Peter H. Reynolds and author and certified yoga instructor Susan Verde team up again in this book about creativity and the power of self-expression. I Am Yogaencourages children to explore the world of yoga and make room in their hearts for the world beyond it. A kid-friendly guide to 16 yoga poses is included. ABOUT SUSAN VERDE Susan Verdeis an award-winning children’s book author, elementary educator, and a certified children’s yoga instructor. Her books highlight the unique manner in which children see the world. Her stories focus on their interactions with their surroundings with emphasis on problem solving in a calming and mindful way. Susan’s books are used to teach children how to express gratitude and to support each other. Susan became a certified kids yoga instructor and children’s book author, after several years in the education field. “Her stories inspire children to celebrate their own, unique stories and journey. Her writing also inspires adults to let their inner child out to dream of infinite possibilities… and maybe come out for a spontaneous game of hopscotch every now and then.” Susan’s latest book, The Water Princess, will be published in late 2016. The book is another collaboration with he bestselling, award-winning, author and illustrator, Peter H. Reynolds. Peter and Susan have collaborated on The Museum, You & Me, and I Am Yoga. Susan lives in East Hampton, New York with her three children and dog. Read more, here. ABOUT ‘STORYTIME SINGALONG, VOLUME 1’ Storytime Singalong, Volume 1 Emily Arrow is the 2015 winner of the John Lennon Songwriting Contest in the Children’s Category for her song “The Curious Garden Song”. The song was inspired by the book THE CURIOUS GARDEN by Peter Brown. Emily was also a finalist in the 2015 Great American Song Contest and the 2014 John Lennon Songwriting Contest. Emily Arrow creates literature inspired music for children, cultivating an appreciation and love for singing, songwriting, literature, and art. She performs storytimes of her original music regularly in Los Angeles at Once Upon A Time Bookstore and Children’s Book World. Emily is touring in support of the album at schools, bookstores, and libraries around the country! Click here for a track listing. ABOUT EMILY ARROW Originally from Ohio, Emily played the piano, read a lot of books, and led a neighborhood “kids only choir.” Fast forward to now and…she’s still silly, she still sings incessantly, and she still loves books! She is a graduate of Berklee College of Music in Boston and earned her graduate-level teaching certification in Orff-Shulwerk Levels I & II. After graduating Emily became a K-6 music teacher at a performing arts-based elementary school in Los Angeles. During her time teaching, she found that her passion was collaborating with the library, art, and technology departments. Which led her to her current career as a kidlit singer/songwriter! Read more, here. WATCH SUSAN & EMILY’S EPISODE OF STORYMAKERS HERE! CONNECT WITH SUSAN VERDE Website | Twitter CONNECT WITH EMILY ARROW Website | Twitter | YouTube CONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook Group | Facebook Page | Instagram | Newsletter | Pinterest | Twitter | YouTube KidLit Podcast Host: Rocco Staino | Executive Producer: Julie Gribble Did you like this article? Leave a comment for us below. We love to hear from YOU!  The post KidLit Podcast: Susan Verde and Emily Arrow appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit Podcast: The Mother’s Day Special

  Listen

  May 08 2016

  Podcast Ep 25 | The Mother’s Day Special Get ready for culinary chaos with StoryMakers Rocco Staino, author Josh Funk and dad blogger Jason Greene as they take on the kitchen to make Mother’s Day breakfast for mom! On this episode of KidLit Podcast learn all about Josh Funk’s Lady Pancake & Sir French Toast, Jason Greene’s amazing adventures with his kids, and how this tasty episode will have you cooking along with these dads and joining in on their culinary catastrophe. ABOUT LADY PANCAKE & SIR FRENCH TOAST Lady Pancake & Sir French Toast Written by Josh Funk; illustrated by Brendan Kearney Published by Sterling Publishing A thoroughly delicious picture book about the funniest “food fight!” ever! Lady Pancake & Sir French Toast have a beautiful friendship—until they discover that there’s only one drop of maple syrup left. Off they go, racing past the Orange Juice Fountain, skiing through Sauerkraut Peak, and reeling down the linguini. But who will enjoy the sweet taste of victory? And could working together be better than tearing each other apart? The action-packed rhyme makes for an adrenaline-filled breakfast … even without a drop of coffee! ABOUT JOSH FUNK Via Josh Funk Books Josh Funk writes silly stories and somehow tricks people into publishing them as picture books – such as the award-winning Lady Pancake & Sir French Toast (Sterling), as well as the forthcoming picture books Pirasaurs! (Scholastic 8/30/16), Dear Dragon (Viking/Penguin 9/6/16), It’s Not Jack and the Beanstalk (Two Lions, 2017), and more. Josh grew up in New England and studied Computer Science in school. Today, he still lives in New England and when not writing Java code or Python scripts, he drinks Java coffee and writes picture book manuscripts. Josh is terrible at writing bios, so please help fill in the blanks. Josh enjoys _______ during ________ and has always loved __________. He has played ____________ since age __ and his biggest fear in life is being eaten by a __________. CONNECT WITH JOSH FUNK Website | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter ABOUT JASON GREENE Photo by http://www.DrinkAndSmile.com Via One Good Dad From the time I was a child, my dream was to become an actor and a writer. After college, I set out along with my wife to chase that dream. We arrived in New York City and I was ready to “make it.” After a few years of auditioning and bit parts here and there, my wife gave me the news that I was about to take on the biggest role imaginable — the role of a daddy. After my son was born, I became a stay-at-home dad and now I’m a proud papa of 4 children. Being a stay-at-home dad has changed the way I think about myself and the world around me. And that has lead me to become a dad blogger and travel blogger.  My blog touches on parenting challenges and rewards, faith, travel, entertainment, sports, sponsorships and reviews, or whatever else is keeping me from getting that great night of sleep I so desperately need. WATCH THE MOTHER’S DAY SPECIAL EPISODE ON STORYMAKERS HERE! CONNECT WITH JASON GREENE Website | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter CONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook Group | Facebook Page | Instagram | Newsletter | Pinterest | Twitter | YouTube KidLit Podcast Host: Rocco Staino | Executive Producer: Julie Gribble Did you like this article? Leave a comment for us below. We love to hear from YOU!    The post KidLit Podcast: The Mother’s Day Special appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit Podcast: Earl Wiman from the NEA

  Listen

  May 06 2016

  Podcast Ep 24 | Earl Wiman from the NEA Every week, day and hour should celebrate Teachers Appreciation Week. Teachers should be appreciated for their hard work, compassion and dedication to making children life-long learners. And who better to celebrate with than Earl Wiman from the National Education Association Executive Committee! Earl has been one of the many dedicated committee members who has helped shape NEA’s signature initiative around “Leading the Professions”. On this episode of KidLit Podcast, KidLit TV’s founder, Julie Gribble, interviews Earl about the advancement of school curriculum, why and how parents and teachers should read to children every day, the NEA’s Read Across America campaign, the importance behind teachers and a child’s journey to life-long education and so much more. “The other part about the NEA is that we really believe that every student in America should have access to a great public school.” – Earl Wiman NEA has partnered with many national organizations and has a grant fund called Great Public Schools where teachers, local associations of teachers and ESP members can apply for funding for the innovation around curriculum and finding new ways to assess students, rather than using multiple choice tests. The most popular part of this is Read Across America. “If we want children to read we have to give them time to read and access to good literature.” – Earl Wiman Reading motivation and awareness is what NEA’s Read Across America celebrates annually. This campaign calls for every child in every community to celebrate reading on March 2, the birthday of beloved children’s author Dr. Seuss. Read Across America also provides NEA members, parents, caregivers, and children with many fun and educational resources and activities to keep reading on the calendar 365 days a year. How are you celebrating Teachers Appreciation Week? Be sure to let us know in the comments below! CONNECT WITH NEA Join a discussion or get news and other useful information sent right to your computer or mobile phone. NEA offers many ways for you to connect with the Association and your colleagues through social media. Click HERE! CONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook Group | Facebook Page | Instagram | Newsletter | Pinterest | Twitter | YouTube The post KidLit Podcast: Earl Wiman from the NEA appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit Podcast: Todd Parr

  Listen

  Apr 21 2016

  Podcast Ep 23 | Todd Parr  In this episode of KidLit Podcast you’ll venture into the world of New York Times bestselling author and illustrator Todd Parr and all about his new book Teachers Rock! There are so many reasons why teachers rock. One reason is because they teach you new and amazing things, help you when the going gets tough, and make you laugh and smile. Teachers make a huge impact on a child’s education. If you’re a teacher, then you will love this episode and Teachers Rock! Stick around and jump into this kid lit adventure, only found on KidLit TV! ABOUT TEACHERS ROCK Teachers Rock! Teachers are amazing! They teach you new things, make you laugh, and help you meet new friends. They always encourage you to do your best. They make the classroom a great place to be! From admiring the way teachers foster creativity in the classroom to how they ensure all children’s needs are met, Todd Parr offers an ode to everything teachers contribute to the world. Bursting with positivity about school and the people who make it special, this book is sure to become a classroom and at-home favorite. ABOUT TODD Todd Parr is the author and illustrator of more than 35 books for children, including the New York Times bestselling The I Love You Book, The Earth Book, and The Thankful Book. His books are available in over fifteen languages throughout the world. He is the co-creator of the popular children’s television show ToddWorld as well as short films for Sesame Street. Todd has partnered with Target, Hilton, TOMY, Stouffer’s and several companies and organizations to help people and animals. Todd’s books have won several awards and his TV show, ToddWorld, was nominated for three Daytime Emmy® Awards. Todd lives in Berkeley, California with his family Pete, Tater Tot and Jerry. WATCH TODD’S EPISODE OF STORYMAKERS HERE! CONNECT WITH Todd Parr Website | Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest | Tumblr | Instagram | Vine | Periscope CONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook Group | Facebook Page | Instagram | Newsletter | Pinterest |  Twitter | YouTube StoryMakers Host: Rocco Staino | Executive Producer: Julie Gribble  KidLit Podcast Executive Producer: Julie Gribble  The post KidLit Podcast: Todd Parr appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit Podcast: Nick Bruel

  Listen

  Apr 14 2016

  Podcast Ep 22 | Nick Bruel Gather up your friends, family and pets and get ready to jump into this kid lit adventure! Author/illustrator Nick Bruel and special guest Bad Kitty are on StoryMakers! What kind of mischief will Bad Kitty get into this time? Be sure to tune into this episode of KidLit Podcast to find out! You can also learn more about Nick Bruel and Bad Kitty on our show Field Trip! at the  Princeton Book Festival and Carle Honors! And you can watch KidLit TV’s Bad Kitty short, here. ABOUT BOOKS Bad Kitty Goes to the Vet Written and illustrated by Nick Bruel Published by Roaring Brook Press When Kitty is happy and healthy, everything is perfect. She jumps around, eats everything in sight, and has the energy to keep slobbering puppies in their place. But when she’s sick, all she can do is lie in her bed. Looks like it’s time for this sick kitty to go…to the vet. When Kitty’s family finally manages to get their clawing, angry pet into the doctor’s office, it’s a wild adventure for Kitty, who has to get the most dreaded thing of all…a shot. Once the shot is administered, Kitty is cast into an ingenious dream within a dream sequence in which she has to make right by Puppy or risk being shut out of PussyCat heaven forever. This ninth installment of the popular Bad Kitty series from Nick Bruel is chock-full of brilliant supporting characters and, of course, the crankiest bad kitty you’ve ever seen. ABOUT NICK BRUEL Nick Bruel is the author and illustrator of New York Times bestseller Boing! and the Bad Kitty books, among others. He is a freelance illustrator and cartoonist, and during his down time, he collects PEZ dispensers and grows tomatoes in the backyard. He lives in Tarrytown, NY with his wife Carina and their lovely cat Esmerelda. WATCH NICK BRUEL’S STORYMAKERS EPISODE HERE! CONNECT WITH NICK BRUEL Website | Bad Kitty Books | Bad Kitty on Facebook | Twitter CONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook Group | Facebook Page | Instagram | Newsletter | Pinterest |  Twitter | YouTube StoryMakers Host: Rocco Staino | Executive Producer: Julie Gribble  KidLit Podcast Executive Producer: Julie Gribble  The post KidLit Podcast: Nick Bruel appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit Podcast: The Art and Whimsy of Mo Willems

  Listen

  Apr 07 2016

  Podcast Ep 21 | The Art and Whimsy of Mo Willems Tune into this week’s episode of KidLit Podcast to learn all about The Art and Whimsy of Mo Willems! StoryMakers host Rocco Staino caught up with Mo Willems at the preview for The Art and Whimsy of Mo Willems, a retrospective of Willems’ work at the New-York Historical Society. The Art and Whimsy of Mo Willems exhibit contains many pieces that show Willems’ process as he created some of kid lit’s most memorable characters. He hopes children create their own art after they leave the museum. The author and illustrator briefly discussed The Thank You Book, the 25th and last book in the Elephant and Piggie series. Mo Willems has had a huge impact on the lives of children. As a television writer for Sesame Street he garnered six Emmys. His witty one-liners inspired children to quote characters from Codename: Kids Next Door amongst other familiar cartoons. In 2003 his first picture book, Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus!, was published and since then it’s been a stream of accolades; three Caldecott Honors, two Geisel Medals, five Geisel Honors, and a place in the Picture Book Hall of Fame. Willems’ surly pigeon, the mismatched pair of Elephant and Piggie, and everyone’s favorite Knuffle Bunny are a few of the characters visitors will get to see evolve via the exhibit. The Art and Whimsy of Mo Willems exhibition brings together original art, sketches, and inspirational drawings from Willem’s most popular series, plus stand-alone classics such as Leonardo the Terrible Monster and That is NOT a Good Idea!. It displays the efforts behind the effortlessness, the seriousness behind the silliness, and the desire, as Willems says, “to think of my audience, not for my audience.” His ability to crisply weave together life lessons and humor creates artful volumes that speak to all, regardless of size. The Art and Whimsy of Mo Willems is open now, until September 25, 2016. Click here for ticket information, directions, and more. The Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art organized the exhibition, which is supported by Disney Publishing Worldwide. LIKE IT? PIN IT! ACTIVITIES Click the images or links below to access fun activities with characters from Mo Willems’ books! Go Mo: Fun Games! Pigeon Presents: Fun Coloring Sheet of the Month ABOUT THE THANK YOU BOOK The Thank You Book Written and illustrated by Mo Willems (Disney-Hyperion, 2016) Gerald is careful. Piggie is not. Piggie cannot help smiling. Gerald can. Gerald worries so that Piggie does not have to. Gerald and Piggie are best friends. In The Thank You Book!, Piggie wants to thank EVERYONE. But Gerald is worried Piggie will forget someone … someone important. ABOUT MO WILLEMS #1 New York Times Bestseller Mo Willems began his career as a writer and animator for PBS’ Sesame Street, where he garnered 6 Emmy Awards for his writing. During his nine seasons at Sesame Street, Mo also served as a weekly commentator for BBC Radio and created two animated series, Nickelodeon’s The Off-Beats and Cartoon Network’s Sheep in the Big City. While serving as head writer for Cartoon Network’s #1 rated show, Codename: Kids Next Door, Mo began writing and drawing books for children. His debut effort, Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus! became a New York Times Bestseller and was awarded a Caldecott Honor in 2004. The following year Knuffle Bunny: a Cautionary Tale was awarded a Caldecott Honor. The sequel, Knuffle Bunny Too: a Case of Mistaken Identity garnered Mo his third Caldecott Honor in 2008. In addition to picture books, Mo created the Elephant and Piggie books, a series of “Easy Readers”, which were awarded the Theodor Suess Geisel Medal in 2008 and 2009 and  Geisel Honors in 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, and 2015. For older audiences he has published an illustrated memoir of his year-long trip around the world in 1990-91 entitled You Can Never Find a Rickshaw When it Monsoons and Don’t Pigeonhole Me!, a collection of 20 years of his annual sketchbooks. His books have been translated into over 20 languages. Read more: Mo Willems FAQ CONNECT WITH MO WILLEMS Website | Twitter ABOUT THE NEW-YORK HISTORICAL SOCIETY The New-York Historical Society, one of America’s pre-eminent cultural institutions, is dedicated to fostering research, presenting history and art exhibitions, and public programs that reveal the dynamism of history and its influence on the world of today. Founded in 1804, New-York Historical is the oldest museum in New York City. New-York Historical has a mission to explore the richly layered political, cultural and social history of New York City and State and the nation, and to serve as a national forum for the discussion of issues surrounding the making and meaning of history. New-York Historical is recognized for engaging the public with deeply researched and far-ranging exhibitions. Supporting these exhibitions and related education programs are one of the world’s greatest collections of historical artifacts, works of American art, and other materials documenting the history of the United States and New York. The New-York Historical Society’s museum is the oldest in New York City and predates the founding of the Metropolitan Museum of Art by nearly seventy years. Read more: New-York Historical Society WATCH MO WILLEM’S STORYMAKERS ON LOCATION EPISODE HERE! CONNECT WITH THE NEW-YORK HISTORICAL SOCIETY Website | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter CONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook Group | Facebook Page | Instagram | Newsletter | Pinterest |  Twitter | YouTube StoryMakers On Location Host: Rocco Staino Executive Producer: Julie Gribble This post contains affiliate links. The post KidLit Podcast: The Art and Whimsy of Mo Willems appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit Podcast: David Walliams

  Listen

  Mar 25 2016

  Podcast Ep 20 | David Walliams On this episode of KidLit Podcast learn about David Walliams, the bestselling author of Demon Dentist and several other middle grade books. Also, Walliams is a comedian who is best known to adults as the star of the popular English comedy, Little Britain. StoryMakers host Rocco Staino interviewed Walliams on location at New York City’s Path1 Studio. ABOUT DEMON DENTIST Demon Dentist Written by David Walliams; illustrated by Tony Ross (Harper Collins Children’s Books) Something strange is happening in Alfie’s town. Instead of shiny coins from the tooth fairy, kids are waking up to dead slugs, live spiders, and other icky, terrible things under their pillows. Who would do something so horrific? Alfie is sure that Miss Root, the new dentist in town, is behind it all. There’s nothing Alfie hates more than going to the dentist, but to solve this mystery, he may have to book a dreaded appointment … (Via Harper Collins) Read a sample, here. ABOUT DAVID WALLIAMS Via Harper Collins UK Since beginning his publishing career in 2008, David Walliams has taken the children’s literary world by storm. His sixth book Demon Dentist was published in September 2013 and went straight to number one in the bestseller charts. Previous bestsellers Ratburger and Gangsta Granny were also immediate number one hits, and the paperback ofGangsta Granny dominated the UK charts in 2013, remaining at number one for a colossal 22 weeks. David is currently the fastest growing children’s author in the UK. Following the Christmas 2012 success and BAFTA nomination of the BBC adaptation of his second book, Mr Stink, starring Hugh Bonneville, Gangsta Granny was aired in 2013 over Christmas. Walliams’ books have achieved unprecedented critical acclaim and it comes as no surprise that countless broadsheet reviewers have compared him to his all-time hero, Roald Dahl. David is well known for his work with Matt Lucas. Together they created Little Britain, which has won numerous international awards including three BAFTAs and is now shown in over 100 countries. David and Matt followedLittle Britain with the hugely popular spoof airport documentary series Come Fly With Me. In September 2011 David swam 140 miles from Gloucestershire to Westminster raising £2.5 million for Sports Relief. David has also proved popular in his role as a judge on TV talent show Britain’s Got Talent, where he found inspiration for one of the characters in his bestselling novel Ratburger.   Watch the VIDEO for this podcast HERE! CONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook Group | Facebook Page | Instagram | Newsletter | Pinterest |  Twitter | YouTube This post contains affiliate links. The post KidLit Podcast: David Walliams appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit Podcast: Stephen Mooser and Lin Oliver

  Listen

  Mar 19 2016

  Podcast Ep 19 | Stephen Mooser and Lin Oliver Stephen Mooser and Lin Oliver were two writers tasked with creating educational books for children. Writing books for children was new to them, so they wanted to find out more about the genre. When they couldn’t find a conference specific to this field they created one of their own. Initially they wrote letters to 10 major children’s literature authors, asking if they would be interested in attending the first conference. Lin and Stephen  received responses from all authors; only two of whom declined. Dr. Seuss declined the invitation in a rhyming letter! Thus, the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators was born. Today SCBWI’s membership is over 25,000 strong, worldwide. There’s even a chapter in Outer Mongolia. We’re always wondering how authors get ideas for their books. Lin shares touching stories about her latest book,Little Poems for Tiny Ears, and the Hank series. Her book of poetry was written for her granddaughter’s tiny ears only. Then, her close friend Tomie diPaola offered to create illustrations to accompany the poems. Hank’s story takes a page out of Henry Winkler’s life. At 35 the actor, producer, and Lin’s sometimes writing partner realized he lived with dyslexia, which was a major reason for issues he experienced in childhood. Stephen’s Class Clown Academy, a book written with the reluctant reader in mind, is tied to an interactive website. Although he’s been traditionally published many times he decided to self-publish this project. Stephen encourages parents to have their children keep diaries and to read often. He has a great tip for parents to encourage any television-obsessed child to read. Watch the video to learn more about Stephen and Lin’s books, the connection SCBWI has to Paula Danziger via the Amber Brown Grant, what SCBWI chapters do, and more. Continue below to learn more about the titles mentioned in the video, to read Stephen and Lin’s bios, and to connect with them and SCBWI. ABOUT ‘LITTLE POEMS FOR TINY EARS’ Little Poems for Tiny Ears Written by Lin Oliver Illustrated by Tomie dePaola Published by Nancy Paulsen Books The dynamic, best-selling team of Lin Oliver and Tomie dePaola have created a charming collection of baby poems that makes the perfect gift for baby showers and first birthdays. For babies and toddlers, each moment is full of wonder and discovery. This delightful collection of original poems celebrates the everyday things that enthrall little ones, such as playing peekaboo, banging pots and pans, splashing at bath time, and cuddling at bedtime. Full of contagious rhythm and rhyme, this inviting picture book introduces young children to the sound of poetry, and beloved illustrator Tomie dePaola’s engaging children are the perfect match for Lin Oliver’s lighthearted poems. Together they ve created a book to be treasured that captures the magic and fun of being new in the world. ABOUT ‘CLASS CLOWN ACADEMY’ Class Clown Academy Written by Stephen Mooser Illustrated by Rick Reese Published by During the summer the Class Clown Academy opens for twelve days to let class clowns brush up on their skills. The Class Clown Academy is a special place that keeps our educational system afloat, a unique institution that requires a steady supply of dedicated jokers—people who aren’t afraid to propel a classroom of students out of their seats and onto the floor, howling with laughter. Could that be you? Would you like to be part of the next generation of class clowns? Are you dead serious about being ridiculously funny? Can you laugh hard enough to blow milk out of your nose? Build a paper airplane in under ten seconds? Do them both at the same time! In this book you’ll get a first hand peek at what it takes to gain the school credits necessary to be an official class clown. Meet the students and the teachers, complete an application for the Class Clown Academy! Visit Class Clown Academy, where you can play learn more about the book, play around, and download the app. ABOUT STEPHEN MOOSER AND LIN OLIVER STEPHEN MOOSER Via Stephen Mooser’s Blog Stephen Mooser grew up in Fresno, California and later attended UCLA where he received a BA in Motion Pictures and later a Masters in Journalism. Steve even got into politics and was President of the UCLA Senior Class in 1963.  After graduating he spent some time looking for treasure. Steve searched for pirate gold hidden an Island in the Gulf of Panama, and spent nearly a year searching the Utah desert for bars of silver stolen by the Outlaw Butch Cassidy and his partner, The Sundance Kid. Needless to say, Steve didn’t find much treasure, but many of his personal adventures have found their way into his books. Steve Mooser’s first book for children, 101 Black Cats (Scholastic) revolved around a treasure as did Orphan Jeb at the Massacree (Knopf) and Shadows on the Graveyard Trail (Dell Yearling). Among series books Steve has written are The Treasure Hounds (Troll), The Creepy Creature Club (Dell), The All-Star Meatballs (Dell) and Goofball Malone, Ace Detective (Penguin). In all Steve has written over 60 books for children. In addition to adventure stories, he has written a number of nonfiction books about the Weird and Strange. Those include Into The Unknown: Nine Astounding Stories (Lippincott) and The Man Who Ate A Car and Tons of Other Weird True Stories (Dell). In 1971, with Lin Oliver, Stephen Mooser co-founded the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators. Today, the SCBWI has nearly 25,000 members around the world with chapters everywhere from Montana to Mongolia and Indiana to India. CONNECT WITH STEPHEN MOOSER SCBWI | Blog | Instagram | Twitter LIN OLIVER Lin Oliver was born in Los Angeles, California. She attended college at UCLA and UC Berkeley where she majored in English. After college, she taught high school, but quickly moved on to writing educational books for children. Her writing partner was Steve Mooser. Neither of them had ever written for children, so they decided to learn more about the field. They attempted to find a conference but none were available, so they created one, and formed the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators in the process. Today, the SCBWI has over 22,000 members! Lin loves kid lit creators. She believes they are “child-loving, creative, unique, thoughtful people who celebrate their weirdness and accept others exactly as they are.” Lin worked at Universal Studios for eleven years, became a Vice-President, and developed many television shows. She wrote and produced shows including Harry and the Hendersons. Besides being an author Lin runs a production company. Lin Oliver Productions has produced many family friendly shows, such as Corduroyand Wayside School, and movies like Finding Buck McHenry and The Trumpet of the Swan. In 2002, Henry Winkler and Lin published their first book in the Hank Zipzer: World’s Best Underachiever series. They wanted to write a story about a funny, resourceful and smart kid who has a learning disability. There are 18 books in the Hank series which has sold over 4 million copies and there is a series for younger kids called Here’s Hank, about Hank in the second grade. Lin loves writing about Hank “because I believe we all have challenges in life and what defines us is how we deal with them with courage, honesty and self-acceptance.” Lin has written several book series for young people, including Who Shrunk Daniel Funk, Almost Identical and with her son Theo Baker, Sound Bender and The Shadow Mask. Her most recent book is a collaboration with the award-winning illustrator Tomie de Paola, called Little Poems for Tiny Ears; a collection of humorous poems for very children. She lives in California with her husband Alan; he is an associate dean at the School of Cinematic Arts at the University of Southern California. They have three sons; Theo, Ollie, and Cole. As a family they have travelled all over the world. Also, Lin has a naughty dog named Dexter Duncan Baker. CONNECT WITH LIN OLIVER SCBWI | Website | Instagram | Twitter ABOUT THE SOCIETY OF CHILDREN’S BOOK WRITERS AND ILLUSTRATORS Via SCBWI The Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators, a non-profit, 501(c)3 organization, is one of the largest existing organizations for writers and illustrators. It is the only professional organization specifically for those individuals writing and illustrating for children and young adults in the fields of children’s literature, magazines, film, television, and multimedia.  Our mission is to support the creation and availability of quality children’s books around the world. We accomplish this by fostering a vibrant community of individuals who bring books for young readers to the public including writers, illustrators, translators, editors, publishers, agents, librarians, educators, booksellers, bloggers, enthusiasts and others. We provide education and support for these individuals  and the community through our awards, grants, programs and events. We strive to increase the quality and quantity of children’s books in the marketplace, and act as a consolidated voice for writers and illustrators of children’s books worldwide. Membership in the SCBWI is open to anyone with an active interest in children’s literature from picture books to young adult novels. We welcome aspiring and published writers and illustrators, librarians, educators, artists, students, dramatists, musicians, filmmakers, and others. A passion for children’s literature is our #1 criterion.   Watch the VIDEO for this podcast HERE! CONNECT WITH SCBWI Website | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter CONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook Group | Facebook Page | Instagram | Newsletter | Pinterest |  Twitter | YouTube This post contains affiliate links. The post KidLit Podcast: Stephen Mooser and Lin Oliver appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit Podcast: Julie Chibbaro & JM Superville Sovak

  Listen

  Mar 17 2016

  Podcast Ep 18 | Julie Chibbaro & JM Superville Sovak Author Julie Chibbaro and illustrator JM Superville Sovak’s collaboration, Into the Dangerous World, is a coming of age tale set on the gritty streets of 1980s New York City. Loss, personal and artistic struggles, and exploring unknown terrain guides budding artist Ror’s life. BOOKS Via IndieBound.org Into the Dangerous World (Illustrated by JM Superville Sovak), When her father torches the commune and himself Ror’s life changes. She, her mother and sister end up in a homeless residence in Manhattan, where she runs into trouble and love with Trey, the leader of Noise Ink, a graffiti crew. On the city’s streets, and in its museums and galleries, Ror finds herself pulled in different directions. Her father wanted her to make classic art. Noise Ink insists she stay within their lines. Her art teacher urges her to go to college. What does “she” want? Ror’s journey is a seamless blend of words and pictures, cinematic in its scope–a sharp-edged, indelible work of art that will live inside your head. Deadly (Illustrated by JM Superville Sovak), If Prudence Galewski is ever going to get out of Mrs. Browning’s esteemed School for Girls, she must demonstrate her refinement and charm by securing a job appropriate for a young lady. But Prudence isn’t like the other girls. She is fascinated by how the human body works and why it fails. With a stroke of luck, she lands a position in a laboratory, where she is swept into an investigation of the fever bound to change medical history. Prudence quickly learns that an inquiry of this proportion is not confined to the lab. From ritzy mansions to shady bars and rundown tenements, she explores every potential cause of the disease. But there’s no answer in sight—until the volatile Mary Mallon emerges. Dubbed “Typhoid Mary” by the press, Mary is an Irish immigrant who has worked as a cook in every home the fever has ravaged. Strangely, though, she hasn’t been sick a day in her life. Is the accusation against her an act of discrimination? Or is she the first clue in a new scientific discovery? Prudence is determined to find out. In a time when science is for men, she’ll have to prove to the city, and to herself, that she can help solve one of the greatest medical mysteries of the twentieth century. Via Amazon.com Redemption, Twelve-year-old Lily has not seen her father for more than eight months. He was taken from her and her mother one night by the baron’s men, forced against his will to leave England and to be part of a colony in the New World. And now Lily and her mother are in danger — for the baron’s men say they no longer have any right to their land. They also face persecution for being followers of Frere Lanther, a man who has been excommunicated by the church for wanting to purge it of its corrupt practices. Their one chance for safety and freedom is to take passage on the next ship out to the New World. The harrowing voyage reveals painful secrets that strip Lily of her innocence. But Lily also makes a friend — a boy named Ethan, son to none other than the baron himself, who is also onboard. Together Ethan and Lily navigate their way through betrayals and treachery in a strange new land. Separated from the group, lost in the wilderness, and captured by an Indian tribe, Lily must reach deep inside herself and tap into strength she never knew she had if she is to survive. ABOUT JULIE Via JulieChibbaro.com Julie Chibbaro is the award-winning author of three novels: Into the Dangerous World, Deadly, and Redemption. Into the Dangerous World is a Junior Library Guild Selection. Deadly won the 2011 National Jewish Book Award, and was Top 10 on the American Library Association’s Amelia Bloomer Project list. It was named a Bank Street Best Book, and an Outstanding Science Trade Book by the National Science Teachers Association. It is now part of many schools’ curriculum. Julie Chibbaro’s first book, Redemption (Simon & Schuster 2004), an epic tale of love, kidnapping, and white Indians, won the 2005 American Book Award. Julie has appeared on author panels throughout the country, and was a Featured Speaker at the USA Science & Engineering Festival Book Fair. Julie teaches at the Gotham Writers Workshop, in Manhattan, and at Botsford Arts, in Beacon, NY. She has written for The Prague Post, The Montreal Gazette, The Poughkeepsie Journal, Hudson Valley Magazine, NY States of Mind, Books in Canada, SundanceTV, Tuttle Publishing, and many other venues. She studied writing at The New School, and with Gordon Lish. She received scholarships to study with Clark Blaise at the Prague Writers Workshop, and with Janet Fitch and Amy Tan at the Squaw Valley Community of Writers. At the New York Writers Institute, she took a Master class with Marilynne Robinson and Ann Beattie. She is represented by the agent Jill Grinberg. ABOUT JEAN-MARC (JM) Via SupervilleSovak.com Jean-Marc is an artist who makes videos of his doppelgangers, collects antique bricks, draws portraits of lynch mobs, and gives guided tours of NYC housing projects. His work has been exhibited at the Aldrich Contemporary Art Museum, Socrates Sculpture Park, Manifesta 8 European Biennial of Contemporary Art, Murcia, Spain and the International Studio and Curatorial Program (ISCP) in New York City. His videos are distributed by Videographe, Inc., and have been screened worldwide. Jean-Marc is the recipient of an Emerging Artist Fellowship at Socrates Sculpture Park, a NYFA SOS Grant, and a Canada Council Travel Grant. He was selected as a Smack Mellon Hot Pick and has been a guest speaker at Shadow Festival 8 in Amsterdam, the New York Public Library, and Bard College. He is the illustrator of Deadly by Julie Chibbaro and Into The Dangerous World. He lives and works with Julie in Beacon, NY.   WATCH THE STORYMAKERS EPISODE HERE! CONNECT WITH JULIE Website Facebook Goodreads Twitter CONNECT WITH JEAN-MARC (JM) Website Facebook Twitter StoryMakers Host: Rocco Staino Executive Producer: Julie Gribble CONNECT WITH KIDLIT TV Facebook Group Facebook Page Pinterest Twitter   The post KidLit Podcast: Julie Chibbaro & JM Superville Sovak appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit Podcast: Susannah Richards at Bank Street

  Listen

  Mar 04 2016

  Podcast Ep 17 | Irma Black Award and Cook Prize Ceremony with Susannah Richards It’s throw back Thursday on this new episode of KidLit RADIO as we remember when the KidLit TV team live streamed the Irma Black Award and Cook Prize ceremony, and professor and intrepid reporter Susannah Richards, PhD interviewed several of the accomplished kid lit creators in attendance. Find out which past Irma Black Award winner’s next book will focus on demystifying fractals, how Mac Barnett makes a ghost appear out of thin air, and how John Rocco’s daughter inspired him to write Blizzard. Irma Black wrote and edited children’s books. She was a longtime member of the Bank Street Writers Laboratory. The Irma S. and James H. Black Award for Excellence in Children’s Literature is awarded to an exceptional book whose text and illustration augment each other in such a manner that they create an unforgettable whole. The Cook Prize is named in honor of Don Cook of the Bank Street Graduate School of Education and Michael Cook (no relation) of the Bank Street School for Children. The Cook Prize is awarded to an outstanding picture book focused on science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) for those aged eight to ten. The Irma Black Award and Cook Prize are unique because children are the ultimate judges of the winning books. 2015 Irma S. and James H. Black Award Winner Sam & Dave Dig a Hole Author: Mac Barnett Illustrator: Jon Klassen Publisher: Candlewick Press 2015 Cook Prize Winner Galapagos George Author: Jean Craighead George Illustrator: Wendell Minor Publisher: HarperCollins Children’s Books Watch the VIDEO for this podcast HERE! CONNECT WITH THE BANK STREET COLLEGE OF EDUCATION Facebook LinkedIn Twitter YouTube CONNECT WITH KIDLIT TV Facebook Group Facebook Page Newsletter Pinterest Twitter YouTube The post KidLit Podcast: Susannah Richards at Bank Street appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit Podcast: Soman Chainani

  Listen

  Feb 26 2016

  Podcast Ep 16 | Soman Chainani  KidLit TV had a “happily ever after” at Symphony Space’s Thalia Book Club Camp, where we met and interviewed Soman Chainani, author of The School for Good and Evil. The Thalia Book Club Camp is a four-week creative program for young readers and writers aged 9–13. Enthusiastic campers are able to interact with their favorite children’s book authors and illustrators, take part in literary discussions, and go on book-related field trips around New York City. Watch Soman’s interview to gain lots of great insights, including: Why he believes women make irresistible villains His favorite villain His three year “sprint” of writing The importance of making your characters honest Soman Chainani and The School for Good and Evil The campers could barely stay in their seats as Soman entered the room; they were extremely excited to see one of their favorite authors. One camper had a stack of Soman’s books at the ready. Soman started the discussion by telling the kids about his book. He explained how classic fairy tales and Disney movies — many with whom the children are familiar — inspired The School for Good and Evil. “I often rooted for the villains in the story growing up, because I thought they were the more interesting characters.” — Soman Chainani Soman’s team put together brilliant trailers for each book. Below is the trailer for the first book. The trailers for the second book and the third book are also some of the best we’ve ever seen. The School for Good and Evil is a New York Times bestseller. It takes you on an epic journey to a stunning new world, where happily ever after is told from a different perspective. Sophie, a glass slipper wearing, supposed good-doer believes she’s a shoe-in (no pun intended) for a spot at the School for Good. She hopes to join the ranks of Cinderella, Rapunzel, and Snow White. On the other hand Agatha who sports a grimace, dark locks, and pale white skin — she has a black cat, to boot — seems to be the stereotypical “perfect fit” for the School for Evil. As fate would have it the girls’ fortunes are reversed. Sophie is dumped in the School for Evil. The girl who believed she was destined to attend the School for Good is forced to take courses including Uglification, Death Curses, and Henchmen Training. Agatha is brought to the School for Good, where handsome princes and fair maidens are spotted in every direction … flaunting their perfection. You have to read The School for Good and Evil, to find out what happens to Agatha and Sophie. Soman Chainani’s Presentation Soman asked the campers about their favorite books and said, “Favorite means you have to had read it more than twice!” With answers ranging from Harry Potter to Percy Jackson, the KidLit TV team was awed by how passionate these young readers were about books. Soman told us about the many times he watched Disney movies with his brothers, when he was young, and how he became obsessed with fairy tales. When he attended college he’d long since left fairy tales behind, but he ended up stuck in a course which exposed the dark origins of modern fairy tales. He realized the classic tales told by authors such as Hans Christian Andersen and the Brothers Grimm were much more wicked than the Disney films they inspired. “Disney princesses and princes get rewarded for making bad decisions and have a happy ever after. Good is clearly good and bad is devilishly bad. There is no grey scale.” — Soman Chainani The School for Good and Evil explores the grayness of good and evil. Soman hopes to teach readers, young and old, that they cannot be fooled by appearances and “goodness” or “evil”. Soman Chainani giving a presentation about ‘The School for Good and Evil’       Watch Soman’s Field Trip! Episode HERE! CONNECT WITH SOMAN CHAINANI Website Instagram Twitter CONNECT WITH THE SCHOOL FOR GOOD AND EVIL  Website Facebook YouTube CONNECT WITH SYMPHONY SPACE – THALIA BOOK CLUB CAMP Website Facebook Twitter YouTube CONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook Group Facebook Page Newsletter Pinterest Twitter YouTube The post KidLit Podcast: Soman Chainani appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit Podcast: Kelly Light

  Listen

  Feb 18 2016

  Podcast Ep 15 | Kelly Light Is it possible for big sisters to get along with their little brothers? If your children are anything like author and illustrator Kelly Light’s Louise and Art there is a distinct possibility they’ll get along swimmingly. Besides a fondness for each other, Louise and Art love drawing … unfortunately, the creative and eager Art likes to use his sister’s work as his own canvas. Uh oh! What happens next will melt any reader’s heart and give them more of an appreciation for the little artists in their lives. Louise Loves Art is Kelly Light’s debut picture book and the first in the series. Two more picture books are in the works, then Kelly will branch out into leveled readers. Each reader will be a different Louise story. ABOUT LOUISE LOVES ART Louise Loves Art Written and illustrated by Kelly Light Published by Balzer + Bray Meet Louise. Louise loves art more than anything. It’s her imagination on the outside. She is determined to create a masterpiece—her pièce de résistance! Louise also loves Art, her little brother. This is their story. Louise Loves Art is a celebration of the brilliant artist who resides in all of us. ABOUT KELLY LIGHT Via kellylight.com Author and illustrator Kelly Light grew up on the New Jersey shore surrounded by giant pink dinosaurs, cotton candy colors, and Skee-Ball sounds. She was schooled on Saturday-morning cartoons and Sunday funny pages. She picked up a pencil, started drawing, and never stopped. Kelly has illustrated Elvis and the Underdogs andElvis and the Underdogs: Secrets, Secret Service, and Room Service by Jenny Lee, and The Quirks series by Erin Soderberg. Kelly is an International Ambassador of Creativity for The Chuck Jones Center for Creativity! The Center is a non-profit founded by Chuck Jones, the animator, artist and director of so many of the cartoons that we think of when we just think the word “cartoon”. In his lifetime, Chuck enjoyed talking to and encouraging younger artists. The center continues in this spirit to ignite creative thinking through free art classes for kids, creativity workshops, presentations and talks for kids and adults meant to inspire and enlighten. The center also has outreach programs to local schools who have lost their art funding and visits senior citizen centers to provide drawing and creativity exercises for greater mental and emotional health. Watch the Video for this Episode HERE! Watch Kelly Light’s Read Out Loud Episode HERE! Watch Kelly Light’s Ready Set Draw! Episode HERE! CONNECT WITH KELLY LIGHT Website Facebook Goodreads Instagram Twitter CONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook Page Facebook Group Instagram Newsletter Pinterest Twitter YouTube The post KidLit Podcast: Kelly Light appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit Podcast: Janice Dean

  Listen

  Feb 11 2016

  Podcast Ep 14: Janice Dean The forecast for this week’s episode of KidLit RADIO is sunny with a chance of Janice Dean, the Weather Machine. The Fox News senior meteorologist and kid lit author introduced us to her patronus, Freddy. Freddy is a spunky little frog who loves forecasting the weather. Janice says, “Freddy has been forecasting the weather since he was a little tadpole. His first word was rain, and he was correct.” After years of being asked to recommend books for children, about the weather, Janice created the Freddy the Frogcaster series to explain meteorology — the science of weather — to children. She wanted a book that was fun and simple, but captured the technical aspect of forecasting too. Janice enthusiastically told StoryMakers host, Rocco Staino, “Weather is exciting! They [children] want to know more about it.” Learning about weather helps to take the fear out of occurrences of inclement weather, including thunderstorms and blizzards. Shop More on IndieBound!  Freddy the Frogcaster – Freddy the Frog loves learning about the weather, and he’s known for having the best predictions in town. But what happens when the town picnic is almost ruined by a storm that catches the local frogcaster by surprise? Freddie has to step in to save the day Well-known Fox News broadcast meteorologist Janice Dean pens this exciting and hilarious tale about an aspiring weathercaster who can t keep his eyes off the sky. Children and adults will love the charming frog world Freddy lives in, and the fun science lessons he shares, with an activities section in the back Freddy the Frogcaster and the Huge Hurricane – Freddy the Frogcaster is tracking the weather at Frog News Network when he realizes a huge hurricane is coming Can the town of Lilypad prepare for the storm in time? Can Freddy report the weather on TV “and” make sure his family and friends are safe? Fox News Meteorologist Janice Dean “The Weather Machine” continues her beloved Freddy the Frogcaster series in this whirlwind adventure that will leave readers with lasting real-life advice on how to prepare for hurricane season. Freddy the Frogcaster and the Big Blizzard – There’s a blizzard blowing toward Lilypad and someone has to warn the frogs Frog News Network meteorologist Sally Croaker is busy in the newsroom and Polly Woggins is preparing for live broadcasts in the snow. It’s up to Freddy the Frogcaster to spread the news and get everyone prepared for the snow storm The second book in the popular Freddy the Frogcaster series from Janice Dean “The Weather Machine,” “Freddy the Frogcaster and the Big Blizzard” will entertain the whole family with a fanciful blend of weather facts and froggy fiction. ABOUT JANICE Canadian born Janice Dean is a senior meteorologist at Fox News Channel. Nicknamed the Weather Machine, Janice has had a fondness for the science of weather since she was a child: “I’ve always wanted to know the science behind things that happened in the atmosphere,” said Janice. She began her career in Ottawa, where she was the co-host of a morning radio show, reporter, and disc jockey. Prior to joining Fox she held several positions at radio and television stations, in Canada and the United States. Before her career in broadcasting, Janice was a bylaw enforcement officer in Canada. Janice is the author of the Freddy the Frogcaster series of books, which teaches children about meteorology; commonly known as weather forecasting. To date, she’s published three (3) books in the series and two additional titles are in development. Janice lives in New York with her husband and two sons. Janice is an avid snow angel creator. Watch the Video for this Episode HERE! Watch Janice Dean’s Read Out Loud Episode HERE! CONNECT WITH JANICE Facebook Goodreads Twitter CONNECT WITH KIDLIT TV Facebook Group Facebook Page Newsletter Pinterest Twitter YouTube The post KidLit Podcast: Janice Dean appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit Podcast: Hervé Tullet

  Listen

  Feb 04 2016

  Podcast Ep 13: Hervé Tullet “I’ve got a very simple vocabulary. My vocabulary is about dots, circles, scribbles, and lines.” — Hervé Tullet Hervé Tullet’s children’s books follow a path of simple lines, raw and energetic, that take the reader on an expedition. Hervé delights us with a reading of The Trail Game and an excerpt from Mix it UP! Learn how he discovers ideas for books that create a playful dialog with young readers. His sense of fun is contagious! “I think you could find your own way to create your own voice and create your own way to dialogue with people. A child can do the same thing.” — Hervé Tullet BOOKS (Purchase on IndieBound!): Mix It UP! Accept Herve Tullet’s irresistible invitation to mix it up in a dazzling adventure of whimsy and wonder. Follow the artist’s simple instructions, and suddenly colors appear, mix, splatter, and vanish in a world powered only by the reader’s imagination. Tullet who joins such greats as Eric Carle and Leo Lionni as a master of his craft sets readers on an extraordinary interactive journey all within the printed page. Tullet prompts plenty of giggles in addition to a profound understanding of colors, and once again displays his unique genius and vision in a work that is a glorious and richly satisfying companion to Press Here. The Trail Game Are you ready? Place your finger on start and then follow the trail with the tip of your finger. You have to turn the pages and find the matching shapes in order to follow the right trail and get to the end. Off you go! Press Here Press the yellow dot on the cover of this book, follow the instructions within, and embark upon a magical journey. Each page of this surprising book instructs the reader to press the dots, shake the pages, tilt the book, and who knows what will happen next. Children and adults alike will giggle with delight as the dots multiply, change direction, and grow in size. Especially remarkable because the adventure occurs on the flat surface of the simple, printed page, this unique picture book about the power of imagination and interactivity will provide read-aloud fun for all ages. The Eyes Game Peek-a-boo – who’s looking at you? Watch your friend turn into a friendly cat or a silly robot or even an alien! This highly interactive book features two die-cut holes for the eyes and can be held up against the reader’s face like a mask, offering an exciting, interactive variation of the much-loved peek-a-boo game for the very young. One of the beloved ‘Let’s Play Games’ series books by Herve Tullet, which stimulate thought and imagination in young children.  Shop More on IndieBound!  Click here for your Press Here Activities GUIDE! Watch the Video for this Episode HERE!   Watch Hervé Tullet’s Read Out Loud Episode HERE!   StoryMakers Host: Rocco Staino | Executive Producer: Julie Gribble | Producer: Kassia Graham CONNECT WITH KIDLIT TV Facebook Group | Facebook Page | Newsletter | Pinterest | Twitter | YouTube The post KidLit Podcast: Hervé Tullet appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit Podcast: Joyce Wan and Kathleen DeCosmo

  Listen

  Jan 29 2016

  Podcast Ep 12: Joyce Wan and Kathleen DeCosmo Multicultural and diverse children’s books are an important part of a child’s life because they get to learn about different cultures, lifestyles and families. As supporters and sponsors of Multicultural Children’s Book Day, we have a special cooking episode of KidLit Podcast. You’ll learn about author and illustrator Joyce Wan who teamed up with social media influencer and entrepreneur Kathleen DeCosmo. There’s nothing half baked about Joyce’s scrumptious bestselling board and picture books including You Are My Cupcake and The Whale in My Swimming Pool. Kathleen folded her reusable magnetic cupcake wrappers into the mix to help create this whale of a cupcake tale. Parents, teachers, and librarians will want to watch as Joyce walks viewers through a kawaii cupcake topper tutorial! BOOKS The Whale in My Swimming Pool One sunny day, a little boy heads outside for a swim, but his pool is already taken . . . There’s a big whale in the water and it’s not budging The boy tries everything to get the whale to leave. Nothing seems to work. Not fetch. Not tag. Not even offering his allowance. What’s a boy to do? Luckily, he comes up with the perfect solution: he decides to chill out on a spray of water over the whale’s spout. You Are My Cupcake A scrumptious board book, filled with sweet terms of endearment. This bite-sized board book is an ode to all the names we call our children: cutie pie, sweet pea, peanut, pumpkin.   ABOUT JOYCE At the age of six Joyce Wan created her first greeting for a contest sponsored by the Art Institute of Boston. Joyce’s design won first place and twenty years later that same design inspired her to launch Wanart — a design studio featuring books, greeting cards, and accessories — after a career in architecture. Joyce is inspired by Japanese pop culture, Scandinavian design, modern architecture, and the little things that put a smile on her face. In Joyce’s perfect world “everything would be cute, round, and chubby,” which is evident in her illustrations. Joyce is the author of several bestselling board and picture books including You Are My Cupcake and The Whale in My Swimming Pool, a Spring 2015 Junior Library Guild Selection. Although Joyce’s parents had the equivalent of a middle school education, and her mother wasn’t able to speak English, her mother took Joyce and her siblings to the library every week. Picture books were integral to Joyce’s love of reading as she and her siblings made up stories to go along with the illustrations. Joyce counts the determination of her parents as a driving force behind her perseverance and success. “When I first started Wanart, I was working at a 9am-6pm job at an architectural firm. I spent many late night hours on my own business with only a few hours of sleep in between the two “jobs”. I did this for two years before I quit my full time job to pursue my own business full-time.” Joyce graduated from Barnard College, Columbia University in New York City with a liberal arts degree in Architecture. Joyce teaches greeting card design and art licensing at the School of Visual Arts. The self-proclaimed night owl prefers drawing and writing in the early morning hours “when everyone’s asleep and the world is quiet.” Joyce lives in Ridgewood, New Jersey with her husband. The architect turned author and self-trained illustrator hopes to inspire people to “embrace the spirit of childhood and follow their dreams.” ABOUT KATHLEEN Kathleen DeCosmo is a social media influencer and founder of Katie Shea Designs. Kathleen’s influence in the lifestyle category spans Twitter, Facebook, Pinterest, Tumblr, Instagram, and Google+. She’s contributed to campaigns for major brands and is a Verizon Ambassador as well as a Family Circle Pin Partner. Kathleen is often called upon to help companies engage consumers in authentic conversations. Kathleen cut her teeth in business as a textile buyer. Prior to founding Katie Shea Designs Kathleenhomeschooled her three children, directed and produced children’s and adult theater, designed costumes, and taught internationally. Kathleen created the world’s only reusable magnetic cupcake wrapper which was featured on Good Morning America. Her company Katie Shea Designs has designed for New York Times bestselling authors, bestselling indie authors, luxury hotels worldwide, bakeries in the United States and abroad, and the general public. StoryMakers Host: Rocco Staino Executive Producer: Julie Gribble Watch the Video for this Episode HERE! CONNECT WITH JOYCE Website Facebook Goodreads Instagram Pinterest Twitter CONNECT WITH KATHLEEN Blog Facebook Instagram Pinterest Twitter CONNECT WITH KIDLIT TV Facebook Group Facebook Page Pinterest Twitter The post KidLit Podcast: Joyce Wan and Kathleen DeCosmo appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit Podcast: Steve Light

  Listen

  Jan 22 2016

  Podcast Ep 11: Steve Light Have you seen my monster? If you haven’t we know author Steve Light has! Steve’s Have You Seen My Dragon? and Have You Seen My Monster? are perfect books for preschoolers learning numbers and shapes. Zephyr Takes Flight is a fanciful look at the adventures of an inquisitive little girl whose imagination lifts her to new heights. Like all good teachers, Steve makes school seem more like fun than work. “Librarians are amazing people.” – Steve Light Steve credits his elementary school librarian with helping to cultivate his love of stories and art. As a child, he found solace within the confines of his school library. After spending many days peering out a window, the librarian reached out to ask if he had any particular interests. From then on, Steve would find a stack of books waiting for him on the windowsill whenever he visited the library. Stay tuned as StoryMakers host Rocco Staino delves into Steve Light’s creative process. What’s Steve’s preferred drawing tool? Why did he choose to tell stories in the first place, and how does it relate to his profession as a teacher? Also, find out how he’s contributed to The Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art. ACTIVITY KITS  AND MORE (click to download) Have You Seen My Monster? Have You Seen My Dragon? Kindergarten Students Create a Counting Book Inspired by Have You Seen My Dragon BOOKS Via Indiebound.org Have You Seen My Monster? – In a follow-up to Steve Light’s highly praised “Have You Seen My Dragon?, “the county fair is filled with shapes and somewhere among them a monster is waiting to be found. A little girl gallivants through a county fair, searching for her furry friend. Readers will surely spot the friendly monster as well as twenty shapes, identified here by their proper names trapezoids, ellipses, kites, and more hidden among iconic fair attractions from the fun house to the Ferris wheel. Maybe the monster is judging the pies? Or perhaps he’s at the monster-truck rally? Youngsters will be so mesmerized by Steve Light’s masterful pen-and-ink illustrations, decorated with vivid splashes of color, they won’t even realize they’ve learned how to spot a nonagon while looking for a monster. Have You Seen My Dragon? – Enter a fascinating, ornately drawn cityscape and help a boy find his dragon while counting objects from hot dogs to traffic lights. In the heart of the city, among the taxis and towers, a small boy travels uptown and down, searching for his friend. Readers will certainly spot the glorious beast, plus an array of big-city icons they can count. Is the dragon taking the crosstown bus, or breathing his fiery breath below a busy street? Maybe he took a taxi to the zoo or is playing with the dogs in the park. Steve Light’s masterful pen-and-ink illustrations, decorated with meticulous splashes of color, elevate this counting book (numbers 1 20) to new heights. Maybe the dragon is up there, too Zephyr Takes Flight – Zephyr is a girl who loves airplanes. She draws pictures of them, makes them out of paper, builds them out of junk, and hopes one day to fly one of her own. But when Gramma, Daddy, and Mom are too busy to play airplane with her, Zephyr’s excess enthusiasm gets her sent to her room — where she discovers a secret door that leads to the most wondrous place she’s ever seen! Lovers of flying machines and gadgets, along with adventurers of all kinds, will be buoyed by this lighthearted tale of a little girl who finds her wings. The Christmas Giant – Humphrey is a giant, and Leetree, his best friend, is an elf. Together they love making wrapping paper for all of Santa’s presents. But this year Santa has asked them to grow a Christmas tree, and the pair couldn’t be more excited! They take great care with their project, planting and watering, snipping and pruning. Finally, the tree is wrapped and ready, and Humphrey and Leetree set off to deliver it. But when disaster strikes, the giant and the elf must come up with a way to make things right. From a small idea comes a big plan—and a surprise no one in Christmastown will soon forget! Watch the Video for this Episode HERE! CONNECT WITH STEVE Website Instagram Twitter StoryMakers Host: Rocco Staino Executive Producer: Julie Gribble Producer: Kassia Graham CONNECT WITH KIDLIT TV Facebook Group Facebook Page Pinterest Twitter YouTube Get Your BackStage Pass to KidLit.TV The post KidLit Podcast: Steve Light appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit Podcast: BookPeople Modern First Library

  Listen

  Jan 14 2016

  Podcast Ep 10: BookPeople Modern First Library BookPeople, the leading independent bookstore in Texas since 1970, is proud to announce the BookPeople Modern First Library initiative. This initiative is all about pairing beloved picture books that will never go out of style along with other favorites that reflect the diverse, global society of the 21st century. Author Phil Bildner interviewed award-winning author Chris Barton and BookPeople’s head buyer, Meghan Goel about the Modern First Library — learn how you can start one of your own! This initiative loves and supports the classics such as Goodnight Moon, The Very Hungry Caterpillar, and Harold and the Purple Crayon but understands that there is “a whole canon of new books out there that also deserve a place on kids’ shelves”. These stories broaden kids’ horizons, provide fresh perspectives, and open windows to new experiences: all the things that great children’s books should do. Modern First Library’s volunteers and team members have collected recommendations from the incredible authors who are the initiative’s guest bloggers. They’ve also added a small selection of titles that they think would make great additions to any parent, teacher, librarian or child’s library. If you go into the store you’ll see some of their featured collections, with your own favorites that will put together the perfect starter kit that speaks to the reader. Phil wrote Marvelous Cornelius which was a featured Read out Loud with illustrator John Parra! Watch the Video for this Episode HERE! CONNECT WITH BookPeople Website Twitter Facebook Instagram CONNECT WITH Chris Barton Website Twitter Facebook Instagram CONNECT WITH Phil Bildner Website Facebook Twitter Instagram YouTube The post KidLit Podcast: BookPeople Modern First Library appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit Podcast: Tim Federle After Hours

  Listen

  Jan 08 2016

  Podcast Ep 9: Tim Federle Hickory Daiquiri Dock  Cocktails with a Nursery Rhyme Twist KidLit TV has a special podcast episode of StoryMakers in store for you with special guest author Tim Federle. This is our first “after hours” StoryMakers episode, just for grown-ups! Tim tells us about the inspiration behind writing his series of literary cocktail books and how one complimentary tweet nearly knocked him off his seat! “Tim is the author of the literary cocktail recipe book Tequila Mockingbird, which was voted the #1 Cookbook of 2013 on Goodreads (and was a clue on Jeopardy). His cocktail recipe guide for new parents, Hickory Daiquiri Dock, has been called “More fun at a baby shower than a Diaper Genie” by the Tampa Bay Times.”–Running Press Books From IndieBound.org: Hickory Daiquiri Dock: Cocktails with a Nursery Rhyme Twist Move over, Mother Goose. As absolutely necessary for new parents as Absolute! Drinks include: —Ring Around the Rosé —Old MacDonald Had a Flask —Baa, Baa, Black Russian Congratulations, and welcome to parenthood! Babies are a miracle, but even miracles poop. A lot. Thank goodness she’s got your twinkling eyes, he’s got your perfect nose, and we’ve got your aching back. Welcome to Hickory Daiquiri Dock: Cocktails with a Nursery Rhyme Twist—the ultimate gift for new parents everywhere. Featuring 20 classic nursery rhymes with a decidedly grown-up twist, it’s time to lose the rattle, pick up a shaker, and throw yourself an extremely quiet party. Especially if you’ve finally gotten the baby to sleep, which is always worth toasting to. Tequila Mockingbird Cocktails with a Literary Twist Drinks include: –The Last of the Mojitos –Romeo and Julep –A Rum of One’s Own –Are You There, God? It’s Me, Margarita A fun gift for barflies and a terrific treat for book clubs, “Tequila Mockingbird” is the ultimate cocktail book for the literary obsessed. Featuring 65 delicious drink recipes–paired with wry commentary on history’s most beloved novels–the book also includes bar bites, drinking games, and whimsical illustrations throughout. Even if you don’t have a B.A. in English, tonight you’re gonna drink like you do. Gone with the Gin Here’s drinking with you, kid. We know your type. You love the smell of napalm in the morning, you see dead people, and you’re the king (or queen!) of the world. No matter your cinematic stripe, there’s a beverage (or ten) tailor-made just for you. A perfect gift for film buffs and a terrific twist on movie nights, Gone with the Gin is the ultimate cocktail book for die-hard silver screen aficionados who prefer to be shaken, not stirred. Included within are 50 delicious drinks—paired with winking commentary on history’s most quotable films—plus an all-star lineup of drinking games, movie-themed munchies, and illustrations throughout. So go ahead, make my drink. ABOUT TIM: TIM FEDERLE GREW UP IN SAN FRANCISCO and Pittsburgh before moving to New York to dance on Broadway. Tim Federle grew up in San Francisco and Pittsburgh before moving to New York as a teenager to dance on Broadway. Better Nate Than Ever — Tim’s debut novel about a small-town teenager who crashes an audition for E.T.: The Musical — was named a New York Times Notable Book of the Year before inspiring a sequel that won the Lambda Literary Award. Tim’s forthcoming YA novel, The Great American Whatever, was called “a Holden Caulfield for a new generation” (Kirkus) and received starred reviews from Kirkus, School Library Journal, and Booklist. Described as “a prolific scribe whose breezy wit isn’t bound to a single genre” (The Huffington Post), Federle also writes bestselling recipe books, including Tequila Mockingbird (over 200,000 copies sold) and the Gone With the Gin. With Tony nominee Claudia Shear, Tim is co-writing Tuck Everlasting on Broadway, based on Natalie Babbitt’s novel (with music by Chris Miller, lyrics by Nathan Tysen, and direction and choreography by Tony winner Casey Nicholaw). Tuck begins previews this March. Profiles of Tim can be read in The New York Times, Atlantic Magazine, Entertainment Weekly, and CNN . Profiles of Tim can be read in The New York Times, Atlantic Magazine, TIME Magazine for Kids, Entertainment Weekly, and CNN — and his press kit can be accessed here. NEWS from www.TimFederle.com: The Great American Whatever (my YA debut, out March 2016)’s first two reviews are starred from Booklist and Kirkus, who called it “a Holden Caulfield for a new generation.” Five, Six, Seven, Nate! wins the Lambda Literary Award for Best LGBT YA/Children’s book! (You can also send him a note.) Watch the Video for this Episode HERE! Connect with Tim www.TimFederle.com @TimFederle Instagram.com/timfederle Facebook: TimFederle CONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook Page Facebook Group Instagram Newsletter Pinterest Twitter YouTube The post KidLit Podcast: Tim Federle After Hours appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit Podcast: Paul Czajak

  Listen

  Jan 01 2016

  Podcast Ep7: Paul Czajak  KidLit TV presents a special interview with picture book author Paul Czajak at NY Public Library in Battery Park City! Enjoy this podcast and learn about Paul’s amazing books that will make your kid’s shout, “Read it again!”  About Monster Needs a Party! A Monster & Me™ book: That time of year is finally here: Monster’s birthday has arrived! But when none of his friends can attend his party, it’s up to boy to cheer him up. With pirates, prizes, and playful rhyme, this story is sure to surprise readers until the very last page. From NYPL: About Seaver the Weaver Seaver is an orb spider, and orb spiders only make round webs—or do they? Inspired by the constellations he sees in the sky above, Seaver tests the limits by weaving sharp shapes. Courageous Seaver meets with success; his patterned webs are snagging snacks from the sky around him while his brothers and sisters wait with boredom in their beautiful round webs, unnoticed by passing insects. Soon Seaver, confused about being different, is the toast of the sky, and is happy to share his shape-making skills with his large family. Author Bio Paul Czajak got an F with the words “get a tutor” on his college writing paper and after that, never thought he’d become a writer. But after spending twenty years as a chemist, he knew his creativity could no longer be contained. Living in New Jersey with his wife, and two little monsters, Paul has rediscovered his passion for writing and looks forward to sharing his stories for years to come. In addition to the Monster & Me™ series, Paul is also the author of Seaver the Weaver. Watch the Video for this Episode HERE! Connect with Paul Czajak! Website: http://paulczajak.com Twitter: @PCzajak CONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook Page Facebook Group Instagram Newsletter Pinterest Twitter YouTube The post KidLit Podcast: Paul Czajak appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit Podcast: 2015 Holiday Children’s Book Special

  Listen

  Dec 17 2015

  Podcast Ep8: The 2015 Holiday Children’s Book Special Cuddle up by the fireplace, grab a cup of hot cocoa and listen to KidLit TV’s 2015 Holiday Children’s Book Special. Former librarian and StoryMakers host Rocco Staino called on several children’s literature experts to share their top holiday and winter picks. Maria Russo (New York Times Book Review), John Schumacher AKA Mr. Schu (Scholastic), and John A. Sellers (Publishers Weekly) read hundreds of picture books every year, speak with thousands of authors and illustrators, teachers, librarians, and children, so they know what’s hot in kid lit and where adults should set their sights. If you’ve ever wanted to know what Santa was like as a baby, how a young refugee spends his first holiday in New York City, or if it’s possible to spread the holiday spirit through the scent of a meal, then you should tune in to this very special episode. Trust us, it’s marvelous. HOLIDAY TITLES DISCUSSED JOHN SCHUMACHER John Schumacher (aka Mr. Schu) is Ambassador of School Libraries for Scholastic. John is a former K-5 teacher-librarian. He has served on ALSC’s Children and Technology committee, AASL’s Best Websites for Teaching and Learning, two Readers’ Choice award committees, and the School Library Month planning committee. John is most well known for his popular blog, MrSchuReads.com. John’s Holiday/Winter Titles Clifford Celebrates Hanukkah by Norman Bridwell Scholastic Inc. Celebrate Hanukkah with Clifford and Emily Elizabeth! Clifford and Emily Elizabeth are celebrating their first Hanukkah. They love hearing the story of Hanukkah, eating “latkes” (fried potato pancakes) and “sufganiyot” (fried jelly donuts), and playing dreidel. After dinner, Clifford and Emily Elizabeth take a trip into town to see the giant menorah. But when they get there, they discover that one light is broken. It’s too late in the evening to call a handyman, but maybe Clifford is big enough to help save Hanukkah! Toys Meet Snow by Emily Jenkins, illustrated by Paul O. Belinsky Schwartz & Wade/Penguin Kids Lumphy, StingRay, and Plastic—the toys from the beloved chapter books Toys Go Out, Toy Dance Party, and Toys Come Home—are back in a glorious full-color picture book, perfect for gift-giving this holiday season. Acclaimed author Emily Jenkins and Caldecott Medal–winning illustrator Paul Zelinsky have created a book destined to become a classic. Children who have loved listening to the Toys trilogy, as well as those meeting the toys for the very first time, will be thrilled to see Lumphy, StingRay, and Plastic venture outdoors to play in the snow. Together the toys build a snowman, make snow angels, and when day is done, head back inside their cozy house and wait for the return of the Little Girl. Click, Clack, Ho! Ho! Ho! by Doreen Cronin, illustrated by Betsy Lewin Atheneum Books for Young Readers/Simon and Schuster Santa comes to the barnyard in this holiday addition to the award-winning Click, Clack series from the New York Times bestselling and Caldecott winning team who brought you Click, Clack, Moo andClick, Clack, Peep! Farmer Brown is busy decorating his home in preparation for Santa’s arrival on Christmas Eve! All seems calm in the barnyard, but Farmer Brown isn’t the only one who is getting ready … Once again, Duck has gotten the whole barnyard STUCK in quite a predicament! Will anyone be able to un-stuck Duck and save Christmas? John’s Gift Book The Marvels by Brian Selznick Scholastic Press Two stand-alone stories—the first in nearly 400 pages of continuous pictures, the second in prose—together create a beguiling narrative puzzle. The journey begins on a ship at sea in 1766, with a boy named Billy Marvel. After surviving a shipwreck, he finds work in a London theatre. There, his family flourishes for generations as brilliant actors until 1900, when young Leontes Marvel is banished from the stage. Nearly a century later, Joseph Jervis runs away from school and seeks refuge with an uncle in London. Albert Nightingale’s strange, beautiful house, with its mysterious portraits and ghostly presences, captivates Joseph and leads him on a search for clues about the house, his family, and the past. CONNECT WITH JOHN SCHUMACHER: Blog | Twitter MARIA RUSSO Native New Yorker Maria Russo is the children’s book editor for the New York Times Book Review. After ten years on the West Coast, she returned to New York City and the Times Book Review in 2014. Maria has three children whose ages span the picture book, middle-grade, and YA categories. Maria’s Holiday/Winter Titles Marguerite’s Christmas by India Desjardins, illustrated by Pascal Blanchet Enchanted Lion Books An old woman makes up her mind to miss Christmas. She prefers to stay home, rather than take the risk of falling or coming down with a cold. She settles into the solitude and isolation of her safe, interior world. But just as she’s about to enjoy a peaceful dinner in front of the TV, her doorbell rings … Too Many Toys by Heidi Deedman Candlewick Press Ever since Lulu was a little baby, she’s had Jupiter, her cuddly and most-favorite-ever teddy bear. But with each new birthday she gets new toys. And every Christmas she gets even more toys. Lulu’s toys are absolutely everywhere! And now she can’t even fit into her own bed. So Lulu decides to throw a very special party for all her toys—and all her friends. Charming and humorous, here is a story sure to resonate with toy-hungry children and slightly indulgent parents everywhere. Miracle on 133rd Street by Sonia Manzano, illustrated by Marjorie Priceman Atheneum Books for Young Readers/Simon and Schuster It’s Christmas Eve and Mami has bought a delicious roast for a Christmas feast. But, oh no! It’s too big to fit in the oven. Jose and Papa need to find an oven big enough to cook Mami’s roast. As they walk from door to door through their apartment building, no one seems to be in the Christmas spirit. So they head down the street to find someone willing to help, and only when they do, lo and behold, the scent—itself a magical smell—of dinner begins to spread, and holiday cheer manifests in ways most unexpected. Sonia Manzano from Sesame Street and two-time Caldecott Honor recipient Marjorie Priceman have cooked up a Christmas tale about how the simplest things—like the tantalizing smell of Christmas dinner and the sharing of it—can become a holiday miracle. Maria’s Gift Book  Dear Santa: Children’s Christmas Letters and Wish Lists, 1870-1920 With J. Harmon Flagstone, Compiled by Mary Harrell-Sesniak Chronicle Books This first-ever collection of children’s letters to Santa—written between 1870 and 1920—presents more than 100 charming missives, each one yet more endearing. Along with its vintage charm, timeless sentiments, and non-denominational perspective, this heartwarming book is filled with historical discoveries that will delight everyone who loves this holiday ritual. Dear Santa is a celebration of one of Christmas’s most enduring traditions, and a tribute to the millions of households that keep it alive. CONNECT WITH MARIA RUSSO: Twitter JOHN A. SELLERS John A. Sellers is the children’s reviews editor at Publishers Weekly. PW gave John his first job in publishing he I moved to New York in 2007. He began his tenure as a part-time assistant in the children’s department. Eventually, he moved on to working in publicity at Vintage/Anchor, an imprint of Random House and at the literary agency Pippin Properties before returning to Publishers Weekly. John’s Holiday/Winter Titles Over the River and Through the Wood: A Holiday Adventureby Linda Ashman, illustrated by Kim Smith Sterling Children’s Books The classic song gets a fresh new twist The fun begins when Grandma and Grandpa send invitations to their far-flung, modern, and multiracial family: “Come to our house for the holidays and bring your favorite pie ” Off everyone goes, driving down snowy roads, riding the train, boarding a plane . . . even sailing along in a hot-air balloon. As each family faces an obstacle that delays their trip, they learn that sometimes the most old-fashioned form of transportation works best . . . NEIGH When Santa Was a Baby by Linda Bailey, illustrated by Genevieve Godbout Tundra Books/Penguin Random House Santa’s parents think their little one is absolutely wonderful, even though he has a booming voice instead of a baby’s gurgle, loves to stand in front of the refrigerator, gives his birthday presents away, trains his hamsters to pull a matchbox sleigh … and has an unusual interest in chimneys. The adorably funny portrait of an oddball kid who fulfills his destiny – and two very proud parents. Goodnight, Manger by Laura Sassi, illustrated by Jane Chapman Zonderkidz/Zondervan Goodnight, Manger tells the story of Mary and Joseph as they try to lull Jesus to sleep in the noisy stable after his birth. It’s bedtime for Baby Jesus, but who knew a manger could be so loud? Mama, Papa, and all of the animals try to lull the baby to sleep, but between itchy hay, angels’ joyful hosanas, and three kings bearing noisy gifts, it’s just too loud. Until Mama finds a way for everyone to work together to shepherd Baby into peaceful dreams under the twinkling stars. With sweet, rhyming text in the style of Goodnight, Goodnight Construction Site, Goodnight, Manger offers a unique twist on the classic manger tale, deftly weaving together the comforting and familiar routines of bedtime with the special magic and wonder of the manger story. John’s Gift Book Happy! by Pharrell Williams G.P. Putnam’s Sons Books for Young Readers/Penguin Random House Nominated for an Academy Award in 2014, “Happy” hit number one on Billboard’s Hot 100 list, and has topped the charts in more than seventy-five countries worldwide. Now Pharrell Williams brings his beloved song to the youngest of readers in photographs of children across cultures celebrating what it means to be happy. All the exuberance of the song pulses from these vibrant photographs of excited, happy kids. This is a picture book full of memorable, precious childhood moments that will move readers, in the same way they were moved by the song. “Happy” has had the world dancing ever since it first hit the airwaves, and now the irresistibly cheerful tune will come to life on the page with Pharrell Williams’s very first picture book! A keepsake and true classic in the making. CONNECT WITH JOHN A. SELLERS: Twitter ROCCO STAINO Rocco is the charismatic host of StoryMakers, our interview show. A captivating and important figure in the book community, he is a prominent librarian, a contributing editor atSchool Library Journal, a contributing writer at The Huffington Post, and the Director of the Empire State Center for the Book, which administers the New York State Writers Hall of Fame. Rocco has interviewed such luminaries as Beverly Cleary, Judy Blume, and Jean Craighead George. Rocco’s Holiday/Winter Titles An Invisible Thread: Christmas Story by Laura Schrod and Alex Tresniowski, illustrated by Barry Root Little Simon/Simon and Schuster In her New York Times  bestselling book An Invisible Thread, author Laura Schroff tells the remarkable story of her lifelong friendship with a boy named Maurice who she met on the street while he was asking for spare change. Now, in this sweet picture book, Laura retells the story of the first Christmas that she and Maurice spent together. She shares how Maurice gave her a stuffed white teddy bear with a red heart, the only thing he had that he could truly call his own—to show her how grateful he was for their friendship. This heartwarming tale captures the true meaning of the holidays and will be one you’ll want to share with your family year after year as a reminder that a gift from the heart is always the best present under the tree. Dear Santa, Love, Rachel Rosenstein by Amanda Peet and Andrea Troyer, illustrated by Christine Davenier Doubleday Books for Young Readers/Random House Rachel Rosenstein is determined to celebrate Christmas this year—and the fact that her family is Jewish is not going to stop her. In a series of hilarious and heartwarming mishaps, Rachel writes a letter to Santa explaining her cause, pays him a visit at the mall, and covertly decorates her house on Christmas Eve (right down to latkes for Santa and his reindeer). And while Rachel may wrestle with her culture, customs, and love of sparkly Christmas ornaments, she also comes away with a brighter understanding of her own identity and of the gift of friends and family. Oskar and the Eight Blessings by Richard and Tanya Simon, illustrated by Mark Siegel Roaring Brook Press/Macmillan A refugee seeking sanctuary from the horrors of Kristallnacht, Oskar arrives by ship in New York City with only a photograph and an address for an aunt he has never met. It is both the seventh day of Hanukkah and Christmas Eve, 1938. As Oskar walks the length of Manhattan, from the Battery to his new home in the north of the city, he experiences the city’s many holiday sights, and encounters its various residents. Each offers Oskar a small act of kindness, welcoming him to the city and helping him on his way to a new life in the new world. This is a heartwarming, timeless picture book. Rocco’s Gift Book What Pet Should I Get? by Dr. Seuss Random House Books for Young Readers/Random House  This never-ever-before-seen picture book by Dr. Seuss about making up one’s mind is the literary equivalent of buried treasure! What happens when a brother and sister visit a pet store to pick a pet? Naturally, they can’t choose just one! The tale captures a classic childhood moment—choosing a pet—and uses it to illuminate a life lesson: that it is hard to make up your mind, but sometimes you just have to do it! CONNECT WITH ROCCO STAINO: Twitter What are some of your top picks for the 2015-2016 holiday season? Let us know in the comments below. Watch the Video for this Episode HERE! CLICK HERE TO WATCH LAST YEAR’S HOLIDAY SPECIAL CONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook Page Facebook Group Instagram Newsletter Pinterest Twitter YouTube StoryMakers Host – Rocco Staino Executive Producer – Julie Gribble Producer – Kassia Graham     The post KidLit Podcast: 2015 Holiday Children’s Book Special appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit Podcast: Kat Yeh

  Listen

  Dec 12 2015

  Podcast Ep5: StoryMakers with Kat Yeh On this episode of KidLit RADIO discover the sweet tale of two sisters who enter the national cooking contest with a million dollar prize on the line. Not only is this tale sweet, but so is this episode of StoryMakers, as Kat Yeh talks about the bond between sisters, her love of retro recipes, and the story that brings both together. This year we were thrilled that Kat Yeh attended KidLit TV’s First Birthday Party and celebrated the joys of kid lit with us. Julie Gribble, founder of KidLit TV, also ran into Kat at the Indies First celebration at Books Of Wonder this year! Kat is a talented author who has a lot in store for the kid lit world. So sit back and relax while you listen to this yummy episode of KidLit RADIO and enjoy. We hope you follow along with the Twinkie Pie recipe as we venture into the KidLit TV kitchen. And if you do, be sure to share your pictures with us on KidLit TV! A Teacher’s Guide for The Truth About Twinkie Pie! KidLit TV team member, Marcie Colleen created this fun activity for parents and educators. Be sure to click HERE to view the guide! And be sure to visit Marcie’s website to find more fun Teacher Guides for all kinds of genres and reading levels! Discussion points, activities, and writing prompts to help educators use The Truth About Twinkie Pie as a classroom read aloud or as a selection for independent reading. Great for book clubs, too! From KatYeh.com: Take two sisters making it on their own: brainy twelve-year-old GiGi (short for Galileo Galilei, a name she never says out loud) and junior-high-dropout-turned-hairstylist DiDi (short for Delta Dawn). Add a million dollars in prize money from a national cooking contest and a move from the trailer parks of South Carolina to the Gold Coast of New York. Mix in a fancy new school, new friends and enemies, a first crush, and a generous sprinkling of family secrets. That’s the recipe for “The Truth About Twinkie Pie,” a voice-driven middle grade debut about the true meaning of family and friendship. Watch the Video for this Episode HERE! Connect with Kat Yeh on … Facebook Instagram Twitter Website CONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook Page Facebook Group Instagram Newsletter Pinterest Twitter YouTube The post KidLit Podcast: Kat Yeh appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit Podcast: Tad Hills

  Listen

  Nov 26 2015

  Podcast Ep6: StoryMakers with Tad Hills Growing up in a family of artists, engineers, and teachers has its benefits. As a child, New York Times bestselling author and illustrator Tad Hills was constantly encouraged to revel in his creativity. He wrote his first book at the age of eight as a gift for his parents. Besides writing, he’s always had a fondness for building things  — namely detailed Halloween costumes for his children — and uses this passion as a way to visually demonstrate storytelling. “The feeling of accomplishment and the fun that I had in writing and illustrating that book is part of the reason why I write and illustrate kids books today.”  — Tad Hills Tad’s literacy focused Rocket series evolved from a 2008 Publishers Weekly cover. What started out as a pup with a bibliophilic bird atop his nose has led to six books and counting. Tad’s first book in the series, How Rocket Learned to Read was a New York Times bestseller. Eight years later, R Is for Rocket: An ABC Book is the sixth book in the line, and features a surprise guest from Tad’s Duck & Goose series. You’re invited to accompany StoryMakers host, Rocco Staino as he interviews Tad about tales of Halloween costumes past; how a playful wheaten terrier launched a series; and what’s next! Want to watch the video for this episode? Click HERE! CONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook Page Facebook Group Instagram Newsletter Pinterest Twitter YouTube The post KidLit Podcast: Tad Hills appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit Podcast: Tara Lazar

  Listen

  Nov 20 2015

  Podcast Ep3: StoryMakers with Tara Lazar Author Tara Lazar was one of our first StoryMakers guests! She has been extremely busy this month, especially because Picture Book Idea Month (PiBoIdMo) takes place in November. Join Rocco Staino as he talks about Tara’s debut picture book, The Monstore from Aladdin/Simon & Schuster, the art of writing picture books, and much more! At the back of Frankensweet’s Candy Shoppe, under the last box of sour gumballs, there’s a trapdoor. Knock five times fast, hand over the bag of squirmy worms, and you can crawl inside The Monstore. The Monstore is the place to go for all of your monsterly needs. Which is perfect, since Zack definitely has a monsterly need. The problem? His pesky little sister, Gracie, who never pays attention to that “Keep Out” sign on Zack’s door—the one he has made especially for her. But when Zack’s monsters don’t exactly work as planned, he soon finds out that the Monstore has a few rules: No Refunds. No exchanges. No exceptions. Want to watch the video for this episode? Click HERE! CONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook Page Facebook Group Instagram Newsletter Pinterest Twitter YouTube The post KidLit Podcast: Tara Lazar appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit Podcast: Rick Riordan

  Listen

  Nov 13 2015

  Podcast Ep4: StoryMakers On Location with Rick Riordan Welcome to KidLit Radio Episode with Rick Riordan! KidLit TV’s Rocco Staino interviews author Rick Riordan at Symphony Space in NYC. In this podcast you’ll hear why Rick Riordan chose Boston as the location for Magnus Chase and the Gods of Asgard: The Sword of Summer, what the names of his top three Norse gods are and how he was a reluctant reader when he was growing up! Listen to this episode of KidLit Radio to find out the answer to these questions and a few others. Rick Riordan’s highly anticipated new book was released the same day Rocco Staino interviewed him, prior to a sold out Thalia Kids’ Book Club event at Symphony Space, in New York City. The author was greeted by a crowd of eager middle-grade readers, anxious to get their signed copies of Magnus Chase and the Gods of Asgard: The Sword of Summer, and excited to hear about Rick’s upcoming projects. “I always try to write with the reluctant reader in mind. I love the voracious readers, but I also want to capture the kids that maybe have never picked up and loved a book.” — Rick Riordan Parents and teachers will want to hear Rick’s advice on engaging reluctant readers. Rick has advice for aspiring writers, too. Want to watch the video for this episode? Click HERE! CONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook Page Facebook Group Instagram Newsletter Pinterest Twitter YouTube If you enjoyed this KidLit Radio Episode with Rick Riordan, be sure to check out our other audio interviews! The post KidLit Podcast: Rick Riordan appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit Podcast: Tim Federle

  Listen

  Nov 13 2015

  Podcast Ep3: Tim Federle KidLit TV’s Rocco Staino interviews author Tim Federle. In this podcast Tim talks about his kid lit mentors, the joy of hearing from his readers, and talks about his book Better Nate Than Ever. Stay tuned at the end because there’s a tap dancing surprise! Better Nate Than Ever  A “New York Times” Notable Book of the Year, a “Publishers’ Weekly” Best Book of the Year, and a “Slate” Favorite Book of the Year. A small-town boy hops a bus to New York City to crash an audition for “E.T.: The Musical.” Nate Foster has big dreams. His whole life, he’s wanted to star in a Broadway show. (Heck, he’d settle for “seeing” a Broadway show.) But how is Nate supposed to make his dreams come true when he’s stuck in Jankburg, Pennsylvania, where no one (except his best pal Libby) appreciates a good show tune? With Libby’s help, Nate plans a daring overnight escape to New York. There’s an open casting call for “E.T.: The Musical,” and Nate knows this could be the difference between small-town blues and big-time stardom. Tim Federle’s “hilarious and heartwarming debut novel” (“Publishers Weekly”) is full of broken curfews, second chances, and the adventure of growing up–because sometimes you have to get four hundred miles from your backyard to finally feel at home. From IndieBound.org: Tommy Can’t Stop!  Tommy bounces, and he leaps. Tommy clomps, and he bulldozes. Nothing tires Tommy out, and his family can’t keep up But then his sister has an idea: could tap class be just right for Tommy. This exuberant picture book, written by Broadway dancer Tim Federle, with illustrations by Mark Fearing, stars one very energetic kid who finally finds his place in the spotlight. Five, Six, Seven, Nate!  Tim Federle is the award-winning author of the autobiographical novels “Better Nate Than Ever “and its sequel “Five, Six, Seven, Nate!”, which were named best books of the year by the “New York Times” and the American Booksellers Association, respectively, and called one of the best new middle grade series by “School Library Journal”. “The Great American Whatever “was inspired by an accident near Tim’s high school in Pittsburgh that changed the community forever. It is his first novel for young adults. Connect with the author on Instagram and Twitter at @TimFederle, and at TimFederle.com. ABOUT TIM: TIM FEDERLE GREW UP IN SAN FRANCISCO and Pittsburgh before moving to New York to dance on Broadway. His debut novel for kids,  Better Nate Than Ever — described as “Judy Blume as seen through a Stephen Sondheim lens” by Huffington Post — was named a New York Times Book Review Notable Book of 2013 and a Best Book of the Year by Amazon, Publishers Weekly, and Slate.com. The sequel, Five, Six, Seven, Nate!, was named a Best Book of 2014 by both the American Booksellers Association and Amazon (and is now available in paperback, audiobook, and e-book editions). Tommy Can’t Stop, Tim’s brand new debut picture book from Disney, with illustrator Mark Fearing, has been selected as a Spring 2015 Indie Next independent booksellers’ choice, and is out now. Tim is also the author of the literary cocktail recipe book Tequila Mockingbird, which was voted the #1 Cookbook of 2013 on Goodreads (and was a clue on Jeopardy). His cocktail recipe guide for new parents, Hickory Daiquiri Dock, has been called “More fun at a baby shower than a Diaper Genie” by the Tampa Bay Times. Profiles of Tim can be read in The New York Times, Atlantic Magazine, TIME Magazine for Kids, Entertainment Weekly, and CNN — and his press kit can be accessed here. (You can also send him a note.) Want to watch the video for this episode? Click HERE! CONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook Page Facebook Group Instagram Newsletter Pinterest Twitter YouTube The post KidLit Podcast: Tim Federle appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• KidLit Podcast: Princeton Children’s Book Festival

  Listen

  Nov 05 2015

  Podcast Ep1: StoryMakers On Location at the Princeton Children’s Book Festival KidLit TV’s Rocco Staino interviews authors, illustrators and other children’s literacy experts at the Princeton Children’s Book Festival 2015. In this podcast you’ll hear interviews with kid lit luminaries such as: The creator of Max and Ruby, Rosemary Wells, who talks about the importance of Mother Goose. Herman Parish, who introduces the new Amelia Bedelia chapter books. Gail Carson Levine, the author of Newbery Honor Ella Enchanted, shares how she loves working with teens on their writing, and a bit about her upcoming book. Steve Sheinkin, non-fiction children’s writer and three times National Book Award long list, talks about his best selling books. …And so many other fabulous authors and illustrators! A big thank you to Princeton Children’s Book Festival for putting on such an amazing event! Want to watch the video for this episode? Click HERE! CONNECT WITH KidLit TV Facebook Page Facebook Group Instagram Newsletter Pinterest Twitter YouTube The post KidLit Podcast: Princeton Children’s Book Festival appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• Featured Member – Cat Michaels

  Listen

  Jul 07 2015

  This month’s Featured Member is author Cat Michaels, who has been a helping hand in the literacy world and the KidLit TV community. Cat has been writing stories since she was in elemetary school and has never stopped. She earned an M.S. degree in special education from the University of Kansas, and has spent over two decades helping students from kindergarten to college and even serving at a community college as a writing coach to support students with Asperger’s syndrome and learning disabilities. Cat tales are webs of wisdom. She write of everyday life, from magical quests to a pinch of mystery. Her stories brighten the world for children and gives them great opprotunties to discover. Cat runs her own blog where you’ll find many tidbits of authorly advice, activities for kids and posts about what’s abuzz in the kidlit world. Be sure to read Cat’s interview to learn more about her journey as an author. {"@context":"http:\/\/schema.org\/","@id":"https:\/\/www.kidlit.tv\/2015\/07\/featured-member-cat-michaels\/#arve-html5-64228390394f2509614001","type":"VideoObject","contentURL":"https:\/\/kidlit.tv\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/06\/IMG_1389.mp4","name":"Featured Member – Cat Michaels","thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/www.kidlit.tv\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/06\/Cat.jpg","uploadDate":"2015-07-07T06:00:21+00:00","description":"This month's Featured Member is author Cat Michaels, who has been a helping hand in the literacy world and the KidLit TV community. Cat has been writing stories since she was in elemetary school and has never stopped. She earned an M.S. degree in special education from the University of Kansas, and"}   Cat: Thanks for having me in your member spotlight, Kid Lit TV! How did you decide you wanted to become an author? I always wanted to write. Started my first stories in fourth grade. When you were growing up what were some of your favorite books? I read everything I could get my hands on, from Doctor Seuss to Sherlock and Shakespeare. Who/what is your greatest inspiration for your books? I often base my characters on people I know, typically friends and family members. In Finding Fuzzy, my niece Jenna and her BFF Elmo inspired me to write about our beach trip, so I made up a blue rabbit Fuzzy for my story’s Jenna to love. As a writer what are a few of your hobbies?  When I’m not writing, I create pocket gardens for our small suburban yard. I walk or swim every day. Hang out with family and friends. Love experimenting with my new micro 4/3 digi-cam, all kind of apps, and graphic design! We’ve weighed in on libraries vs. technology on KidLit TV. How important do you think libraries are in the new technology-age society? No way we can exist in a world without libraries! Twenty-first century libraries are re-inventing themselves as social and learning hubs, where readers and writers can come together to find new books, enjoy special programs, or chat over coffee. I love how they provide access to literacy and cyberspace for everyone. There’s always a wait list for the computer banks at my library! And students are eternally grateful to helpful librarians when it comes to locating hard-to-find research for their English papers! Because you’ve helped students with learning disabilities from kindergarten to college for more than two decades, what is the best advice you can give students struggling with these disabilities today about learning? Use every single one of your abilities and resources to reach your dreams. If there’s not a way to reach them by going through the front door, look for people to help you find a back entrance and other ways to find happiness. Most important: it’s normal and totally okay to change your dreams over time to reflect who you are and life’s realities. What were a few of your struggles in the literacy world? Work-Life balance! Some advice from Cat! What is the best part about working with chapter books and middle grade novels? I like the challenge of taking a complex concept and synthesizing it for kids without dumbing it down. For instance, Sweet T and the North Wind starts out as a tale of magic. However, it ends up showing how Sweet T draws strength from her of family and uses her imagination to deal with the sickness of a beloved family member. You’re always so active on your blog. What’s some advice you can offer authors who are interested in starting a blog for kids? A drawing featured on Cat’s Kids’ Zone Actually, I wouldn’t suggest having a blog just for kids. Kids need to get outside and play in the fresh air, not spend a lot of time on computers. Plus, I’m always concerned about cyber-safety and privacy issues. Instead, I offer a Kids’ Zone on my website that I encourage children to visit with an adult family member. Kids’ Zone has free printables and a gallery of stories and art by young readers that I love to share, with their family’s permission, of course. What made you choose the children’s book industry? It was a natural transition me for me as an educator, writer, and auntie. I finally formalized all those stories stories swirling in my head! Plus, I’ve been a communicator or writer (for business) throughout my career … even for fun when I was off the clock. If you could walk in the shoes of one author for a day, who would that author be? Cat’s response to walking in an author’s shoes Thanks for spotlighting me, KidLit TV! You are an amazing source of news and support for Kid Lit lovers. Looking forward to getting to know YOU better, lovely KidLit TV followers. Please also pop over to catmichaelswriter.com. I’d love to connect on any of social media links you’ll find there, and I’d be delighted if you’ll sign up for my newsletter, Cat’s Connections. ==================================================== Resources: Video Production List for ‘Lil Cat Avatar’s Introduction Recorded on an Ipad Air 2 Free Buddy Poke avatar- and video-creation app for Droid and IOS Canva graphic design for background visual Finding Fuzzy illustration by Irene A. Jahns The post Featured Member – Cat Michaels appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode

• App Review: “Press Here” based on Hervé Tullet’s book for kids

  Listen

  Apr 30 2015

  By Kristin Ammerman Hervé Tullet’s popular book, “Press Here”, has inspired an app for children ages 3-5 years old. I downloaded it for $.99 for my 6-year old. While he played with the app his brothers (8 & 10) were looking over his shoulder encouraging him to try different things. I wasn’t sure what to expect because of the wide range of reviews on iTunes, but I was pleasantly surprised how my kids reacted to the app’s interactive elements. In this article you’ll read our “Press Here” app review! How to know if this app is for your kids: On the reviews, some people complained because there were no instructions on how to play. I can understand how that would be frustrating for adults. However, many kids love to randomly try things out by themselves. How grown up and independent this must make kids feel! I believe this is why children are so attuned to technology at an early age. No fear. They don’t care if the settings on the iPad get totally messed up to where the parent can’t log in! They don’t think twice about pressing buttons over and over again until they figure out what works. Do they get excited when they figure out how to take a gagillion photos? Yes! Sometimes I check my phone to see dozens of photos of my floor… all taken within a rapid fire 12-second window of shutter clicking fun. If this sounds like your kiddo, this app is for them. Get your boundary-loving child to embrace unstructured play: My kids have always struggled with unstructured play. They like to have a goal in mind: put the puzzle together, get the marble to the end of the track, or know the finite rules. This is app encourages “open play”. My kids love playing on their digital devices. But, even those are structured with goals: be the first to finish the race, finish the level or save the princess. This app meets their desire to push every button on my electronic device while in an “open play” environment. This is a great way to reward and engage them in a game with no finite rules. The child makes their own rules. They randomly try things until the desired outcome is achieved. App Interface: In the video below, you’ll see how my 6-year old interacts with the app. This is him with only 20 minutes of experience under his belt. He has already figured out the elements of the app, and he’s still interested in exploring and discovering more. You’ll get an idea of what the visual interface looks like and hear some of the sound effects.  You’ll also see the homepage (the grid of 15 dots). My 6-year old clicks on the dots and the app replies in a sweet child’s voice with the name of each game the dot represents. He’s enjoying figuring out what each dot-game can do. {"@context":"http:\/\/schema.org\/","@id":"https:\/\/www.kidlit.tv\/2015\/04\/app-review-press-here-based-on-hervet-tulles-book-for-kids\/#arve-html5-642283903af75903224228","type":"VideoObject","contentURL":"https:\/\/kidlit.tv\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/04\/APP-Preview.mp4","name":"App Review: “Press Here” based on Herv\u00e9 Tullet’s book for kids","thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/www.kidlit.tv\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/04\/Press-Here-Feature.jpg","uploadDate":"2015-04-30T06:05:52+00:00","description":"By Kristin Ammerman Herv\u00e9 Tullet's popular book, \"Press Here\", has inspired an app for children ages 3-5 years old. I downloaded it for $.99 for my 6-year old. While he played with the app his brothers (8 & 10) were looking over his shoulder encouraging him to try different things. I wasn't sure"} Image: 6-year old playing the “Press Here” app Yes, that is marker all over his hands. He loves drawing with markers (and nothing else. Ever.) I can see that for older kids the novelty would wear off quickly (although my 10 year old is just off screen watching the entire time the above film is recorded), but for the younger kids this is a great app to pull out while waiting in lines at the grocery store, in a doctor’s reception room, while adults talk…you get the idea. More Information on “Press Here” app: For specifics on the “Press Here” app, the Horn Book did a detailed review of why the app was created,  the popular book that inspired it all, and more! Do you have a favorite children’s app? We’d love to hear about it!   Click HERE to enter to win books signed by Hervé Tullet with hand drawn art! The post App Review: “Press Here” based on Hervé Tullet’s book for kids appeared first on KidLit TV....more

  Copy Link to Episode