Whose Lens Are We Looking Through?
After reading the book Roxie in Color by Diane Debrovner and Stacy Cervenka, the idea of perspective really stood out. The book is mostly written from Roxie’s perspective, but there are chapters from the dog’s perspective. The authors explained to Elizabeth that they wanted a neutral point of view.
There are times when kids miss who is telling the story, so this tip can help refocus your kid on the point of view and how the story would be different–if it was told from a different character’s perspective.
Give today’s mini episode a listen!
The Power of Illustrations: Including a Visual Element into Novels with Alan Barillaro
Alan Barillaro is a children’s author and illustrator. He is also the director of Piper, which won an Academy Award for Best Animated Short Film. Based on his experience reading with his children, he has written a series, Buns Rabbit–it blends illustrations into a novel, making it extremely accessible for readers.
Alan talks about why he believes in this format–particularly in this digital-age. He also talks about his practice of keeping a sketchbook to document what he notices–and later puts into his creative work.
Buns Rabbit was nominated for the Barnes & Noble Children’s Book Award–it’s a book that your kids will absolutely enjoy–check it out here. Alan has an amazing website—check it out here!
Keep An Idea Notebook
Many authors talk about the benefits of keeping a notebook handy so that ideas can be documented in the moment. When speaking with children’s author, illustrator, and filmmaker, Alan Barillaro about his Buns Rabbit books, he shared his practice of keeping a sketchbook with him so that he can document what he notices and return to it at a later date. Elizabeth tried this with her younger daughter and she has been loving this strategy!
So, today’s tip is to get a notebook or a sketchbook for your kid (or students) and have them document what they notice. After a few entries, have them take you through their noticings!
The Magic of Nature: Talking about Birdy with N. West Moss
Elizabeth continues speaking with authors this summer, and this week's episode features N. West Moss who is the author of the middle grade book, Birdy.
Birdy is a beautiful book about a girl, Birdy, and her brother, Mouse, who move from their home in New York City to upstate New York to live with relatives they have never met. This book shows how joy can be found--even after experiencing the most difficult loss.
N. West Moss talks about how she developed the characters and why nature (and animals) are so important in life. We end with a discussion of the role of journaling and why it's so beneficial for kids to have a space to write their thoughts, feelings, hopes, dreams, and frustrations.
This is an episode that you won't want to miss! Please check out N. West Moss's website and order a copy of Birdy!
What is Our Country About?
This month, the United States is celebrating 250 years of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. After speaking with Barbara Caroll Roberts about her forthcoming picture book, When George Washington Bowed to the Nation, Barbara shared an idea for parents when reading this book, which is talking to your kids about the United States what is is about and how we got here. You may even decide to take it one step further and ask what it means to your child to be an American. This is a huge milestone for our country, so what better reason to start up a conversation about what your child thinks and knows about our nation's history.
If you want to check out Barbara Carroll Roberts's book that I am referencing, please take a look at her website and preorder the book here.
Sharing History with Younger Generations: Writing Nonfiction with Barbara Carroll Roberts
The United States is celebrating a big milestone—a 250th Birthday! And, to help younger generations learn about our history, Barbara Carroll Roberts has a book about George Washington coming out in August.
In this conversation, Barbara talks about the tremendous amount of research that she did in order to write this book (check out her website to see a picture of a very thick book she read!). She also shares the story behind what led her to do this research and write this book (you won't want to miss this story). And, Barbara shares some advice for parents and teachers about how this book can spark discussions with younger children who are just beginning to learn about the history of the United States.
Check out Barbara Carroll Roberts's website and preorder her book here.
Have You Ever…
It's summer! And, that means that it's time for summer reading! If you want to encourage your kids to keep reading over the summer, talk to them about the books that they are reading. Discussing books with kids helps them think through what the book is all about. After speaking with Shifa Saltagi Safadi, the author of the Amina Banana about writing bravely, Elizabeth has been thinking about how we can help kids think more deeply about the characters. This episode shares general questions that you can ask about the characters in the book as well as questions that connect to your child's life. And, Elizabeth introduces the Have You Ever type of question you can ask your kids.
Staying True to Yourself & Combatting Stereotypes with Shifa Saltagi Safadi
It's finally summer! To kick off summer reading, Elizabeth is speaking with authors about their books.
In this episode, Elizabeth speaks with Shifa Saltagi Safadi, the author of the Amina Banana series and Kareem Between. They begin by talking all about the Amina Banana series--where she got the idea for the series and how she decided to tackle tough topics in the books. Elizabeth and Shifa discuss writing authentically and how Shifa represents the culture authentically so that her character's backgrounds are truly seen. The conversation ends with ideas for kids about how to write bravely--and how parents and teachers can encourage this.
Please check out Shifa’s website and books here!
Libraries Offer Kids Access to All Levels of Books
The American Library Association is hosting its Annual Conference this month--and to gear up for the conference, this episode is about the library!
Should your child only read books on their level? The short answer is no! So, to look for books that your child will enjoy on a variety of levels, hit the library! And, now is a great time--to get your summer reading stack!
Changes, Challenges, and Core Values: Talking about the Role of Libraries with Dan Montgomery
The American Library Association is gearing up for its Annual Conference (June 25-29, 2026)--and joining Elizabeth is Dan Montgomery, who is the Executive Director of the ALA.
In our conversation, Dan talks about the importance of celebrating 150 years of the ALA, what to expect at the Annual Conference (and why you should go!), and what the ALA is facing today. Libraries are facing challenges in these changing times, but there are core values that they are upholding.
Check out their website for more information about the ALA’s Annual Conference.
Libraries Have More Than Books
To celebrate the American Library Association's 150th Anniversary and their upcoming Annual Conference, this week's mini episode is library themed!
Libraries are known for books and reading materials, but they also have materials and resources that serve their particular community. Listen to this episode to learn about some of the materials libraries lend out--then check out your library to see what they have in store for you!
Check out their website for more information about the ALA’s Annual Conference.
150 Years of the American Library Association with Sam Helmick!
It's the 150th Anniversary of the American Library Association! Joining Elizabeth is the current President of the ALA, Sam Helmick, who is talking about the ALA's annual conference and why this year is so special.
In this episode, you will hear Sam speak about:
The ALA’s 150th Year and how they are celebrating at this year’s conference;
A few of the speakers at this year’s conference (you won't want to miss this announcement!);
Why you should consider attending this year’s conference;
And, what challenges libraries are facing today and how you can help.
The ALA's annual conference is being held in Chicago at the end of June (June 25-29).
Check out their website for more information about this wonderful event.
What are you Reading? Kids Mimic Our Actions
Finding time to read can be a challenge. Schedules are busy and when things get hectic, reading is often the first thing that gets cut out. But...this is a tip that really pays off.
It's so beneficial to your kids to let them see you reading. Elizabeth starts with a story that highlights why kids need to see the adults in their lives reading. There are so many benefits to reading in front of your kids. The benefits include:
Modeling behavior that you want your kids to see
Reading is a part of your family's routine
Modeling lifelong curiosity
Shift the focus from screens
The emotional connection that comes when reading
Acknowledging Service Members with Jeff Gottesfeld and Matt Tavares
Memorial Day is quickly approaching and to talk about the importance of acknowledging service members, Elizabeth is joined by Jeff Gottesfeld and Matt Tavares. They are the author and illustrator of the books, Honor Flight: Celebrating American's Veterans and Twenty-One Steps: Guarding the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier--two books that focus on veterans.
Memorial Day is a great occasion to teach children about military history, and both books honor the service of those who made the ultimate sacrifice.
Check out both books--and hear Jeff and Matt's ideas for how these books can support kids' understanding of veterans and the armed forces--in the classroom and at home!
Libraries Spark Curiosity
If you are looking for ways to introduce your child to book about their interests or new books--look no further than the library! Libraries spark curiosity in many ways, which include:
Access to amazing librarians who are very knowledgable about books
The limitless topics they house
They host many events for the community
They offer more than just books for patrons!
Check out this episode to learn more about how taking your child to the library can spark their curiosity!
How Experiences Impact Our Stories: Learning about Crouton the Cat with Author and Illustrator Kristine A. Lombardi
If you love cats, then this episode is for you! Elizabeth is joined by the author and illustrator, Kristine A. Lombardi. She recently wrote and published the book, Crouton, which is about a shelter cat looking for her perfect person to take her home.
Crouton is a very sweet story, and Kristine talks all about where the idea came from, her illustration style in the book, and she even shares ideas about how this book can be used with kids--at home and as school.
Check out Kristine’s work here. And, follow her on Instagram! Pick up a copy of Crouton here!
Mini Episode: Reading for Recall
Elizabeth was recently asked about what reading for skills looks like. In today's mini episode she shares how you can help your child with the skill of recalling what they read after reading.
Bringing Authors to Life: Dr. Karen Huff and the Shenandoah University Children’s Literature Conference
Are you looking for an event that brings together children's authors, teachers, parents, and children? Well, look no further than the Shenandoah University Children’s Literature Conference!
Today, Elizabeth is joined by Dr. Karen Huff who directs the Shenandoah University Children’s Literature Conference. This year marks the 40 Anniversary of this conference and so many wonderful authors are attending.
In this episode, you will learn all about the conference - how it began, the virtual option to attend, and the in-person option to attend, the authors who will be there, and a bit about what is planned for those who attend.
Please, check out this conference here. If you are in/near Virginia, consider checking it out!
Mini Episode: Keep A Journal
Today's tip comes from the author N. West Moss. In her book, Birdy, the main character keeps a journal. N. West Moss has been asked about the benefits of keeping a journal. Today's mini episode shares some benefits to journaling and gives steps to get your kids started!
The Write Stuff For Early Readers with Dr. Cheryl Lundy Swift
Dr. Cheryl Lundy Swift is back on the podcast! Today she is joining Elizabeth to talk about writing -- and how writing can help boost reading skills.
In this episode, Dr. Swift discusses:
Why writing is actually a very natural activity for kids
The connection between reading and writing and why it's so important to make sure kids have the time to write during the school day (and at home!)
The importance of handwriting instruction
And, how parents can include writing into the daily routine at home