Maya Smart, an accomplished author and journalist, discusses her impactful book, 'Reading for Our Lives,' focusing on literacy from birth to age six. She shares her journey from a reluctant reader to a passionate advocate for children's literature and emphasizes the crucial role of diverse narratives in fostering a love for reading. The conversation touches on the challenges of educational disparities and the importance of engaging with literature that reflects children's backgrounds, highlighting reading as a transformative tool in building connections and understanding.