ReThinking Raising a new generation of readers with Shannon Hale
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Dec 23, 2025 
Shannon Hale, a prolific author known for her engaging children's literature, joins Adam and his daughter Joanna to discuss the critical role of books in teaching empathy. They explore how stories can challenge gender stereotypes and lament the decline in leisure reading. Shannon emphasizes the need for student choice in curricula to rekindle joy in reading and critiques how books are often banned for fostering empathy. The trio brainstorms ways to cultivate a new generation of readers, highlighting the transformative power of engaging narratives.
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Princess Origin Moment
- Shannon Hale described her daughter thinking "princesses don't wear black," which inspired more versatile princess characters.
- She used that moment to write heroes who expand what girls can be and wear.
Validate All Reading
- Validate all forms of reading instead of shaming kids for their choices.
- Treat audiobooks, graphic novels, and fan fiction as legitimate reading that builds literacy.
Give Kids Library Ownership
- Use your local library and get children their own library cards to give them reading ownership.
- Put book choice in kids' hands and consult librarians for age-appropriate recommendations.