The Growing Readers Podcast
The Children’s Book Review, is a resource devoted to children’s literature and literacy. In the Growing Readers Podcast, we produce author and illustrator interviews focused on the best books for kids of all ages to help you grow readers.
“Not every book is for every child, but for every child there is a book.”
For the latest episodes from The Growing Readers Podcast, Follow Now on your favorite podcast platform.
Upcoming Guests Include
Leave a Message or Write In: You Could Be on The Growing Readers Podcast
Dr. Johnnetta Betsch Cole and Nelda LaTeef, creators of African Proverbs For All Ages (Roaring Book Press).
An Oprah Book about the power of proverbs, how they evolve over time, and the wisdom of various cultures in Africa.
It has been said that a proverb is a short sentence based on long experience.
Whether you are young or old, proverbs can open your mind to a whole new way of seeing the world. We underestimate children when we assume they are incapable of understanding metaphor and deeper meaning. There are multiple ways that children learn, but for each method by which they learn, they need their imagination engaged and their visual sensibilities ignited. And as adults, we underestimate ourselves when we allow our lives to be about practical matters only. Proverbs can stir our soul and spark our imagination. –Johnnetta Betsch Cole, Ph.D. President Emerita of Spelman and Bennett Colleges
In African Proverbs for All Ages, noted anthropologist and educator Dr. Johnetta Betsch Cole and award-winning illustrator Nelda La Teef invite children and adults to explore and reflect on complex notions about relationships, identity, society, and the human condition.
Eva Chen and Sophie Diaoes, creators of I Am Golden (Feiwel & Friends).
This joyful and lyrical picture book from New York Times bestselling author Eva Chen and illustrator Sophie Diao is a moving ode to the immigrant experience, as well as a manifesto of self-love for Chinese American children.
What do you see when you look in the mirror, Mei? Do you see beauty?
We see eyes that point toward the sun, that give us the warmth and joy of a thousand rays when you smile. We see hair as inky black and smooth as a peaceful night sky. We see skin brushed with gold.
Use the buttons below to ask a question of one of the upcoming book creators. Ask them about their books, their process, or their inspirations. Or just leave a complement! Your message could end up on a future episode of this podcast!
The Growing Readers Podcast
Noted anthropologist and educator Dr. Johnetta Betsch Cole and award-winning illustrator Nelda La Teef talk about African Proverbs for All Ages.
In this episode, I talk with acclaimed child-author Faith Abraham and her family about Faith’s picture book, Superhero Faith.
In this episode, I talk with acclaimed author Elaine Vickers about her tender picture book Thankful, in which everyday things are celebrated.
In this episode of The Growing Readers Podcast, I talk with award-winning writer and librarian Betsy Bird about Long Road to the Circus.
In this episode, I talk with #1 New York Times bestselling author Gayle Forman about Frankie and Bug, a poignant and powerful coming-of-age story.
In this episode, I talk with two-time Newbery Medalist Kate DiCamillo about The Beatryce Prophecy, a fantastical meditation on the power of words and much more.
In this episode, I talk with Beth Ferry, the author of several picture books, including the NYT-bestselling picture book Stick and Stone.
In this episode, I talk with two-time Caldecott Medal-winning illustrator Sophie Blackall. We discuss Neative Cat, The Beatryce Prophecy, and Milkwood Farm.
In this episode, I talk with Bianca Schulze about her latest picture book, Just Be Yourself, Dragon, the third book in a delightfully fun series.
In this episode of the Growing Readers Podcast, I talk with author and children’s librarian Lydia M. Sigwarth about her debut picture book Dear Librarian.