The Children's Book Podcast

Katrina Moore shares Grumpy New Year, a story about spending time with the special people in our lives, but also making plans to sleep, too, because nobody wants to be grumpy.    BOOK DESCRIPTION: Grumpy New Year by Katrina Moore; illustrated by Xindi Yan Page Length: 40 pages Ages 4 to 8, Grades P to 3 "You should sleep on the long flight," said Mama. Daisy should have slept- but she didn't. She was too excited to see Yeh-Yeh! Daisy is traveling to China, and she's excited to see her Yeh-Yeh again! She has big plans for all the fun they'll have together in preparation for Lunar New Year, like flying kites and making jiao zi. But when she arrives, she has trouble sleeping and is less jolly than she hoped. Throughout the week, Yeh-Yeh tries all sorts of things to help her have a fun holiday and get her past her grumpiness. Will Daisy be able to get some rest and have one perfect day before she goes home?   NOTABLE QUOTES: (6:03) “That was always me. That still is me. If I know something is coming up, I'm just thinking of 500 things that I wanna do and how it's gonna go, and a lot of times, as you all know, in life things don't work out that way.” (8:05) “When I was younger, I remember thinking, “Gosh, [my grandpa is] so grumpy.” And so I have that memory like, “He's grumpy. He's my grumpy grandpa.”  When I look back on it now as a grownup, I realize he wasn't grumpy. We were just missing each other in communication.” (9:13) “When I wanted to write a story for children that would really resonate with them, I was thinking about one of my favorite relationships. And that's the one with my grandpa.” (12:24) “You have to eat really, really, really long noodles, that you have a long life. I made the mistake one year of cutting my noodles. And I never saw my grandpa cry like he cried when I cut my noodles. You can't cut your noodles because you'll cut your life short. And so he threw out those noodles and he gave me a new bowl with like, really, really long noodles, cause you need to have a long life, so you eat long noodles.” (13:20) “So that's really what I remembered: everybody laughing, everybody sitting around the table, eating food, being together. Those are the sounds that I remember growing up and bring a smile to my face.”  (14:38) “On nights where my sleep is interrupted, the next day I'm really grumpy. I'm really grumpy. Things that would not normally bother me do. And so I find myself just being very, very irritable because I haven't gotten a good rest. So I know that about myself and especially on days where I know I need to be well rested, I make sure that I am otherwise I am a very, very grumpy person.” (18:28) “The way that Xindy has brought these characters to life. It, it just feels so, so real. And I think a lot of that has to do with the fact that Xindy feels that this story is very personal to her, too. And I think that's a lot of the magic of picture books as I wrote this based off of my relationship with my grandpa and my experience.” (22:04) “Share the things that you love to do with the people that you love. And that way when you're doing that thing, but you're not together it's like you still are.  And I will also end with a note to remember the importance of a good night's sleep.”    ADDITIONAL LINKS: Katrina Moore Website - www.katrinamoorebooks.com Purchase the Book - Grumpy New Year Purchase the Book - Grandpa Grumps   TALK ABOUT THE EPISODE: Do you have a special relative in your family or with a person outside of your family? What do you value most in your relationship with this person? What is a memory you’ve shared with them that means a lot to you?  How do you feel after not getting enough sleep? How does it affect your mood? How does it affect your ability to concentrate at school? Or your ability to do things at home? Katrina talked about eating long noodles to symbolize long life as part of a New Year tradition observed by members of her family. What are some foods you eat during special holidays or occasions? What makes these foods significant or important to your celebration? (For example, do you have a birthday cake to celebrate the birthday of someone in your home?) What is something that you love or that means a lot to you? How might you share this with others? (For example, can you show it and tell them about it? Is it something you can see or do together?)   CREDITS: This podcast episode of The Children’s Book Podcast was written, edited, and produced by Matthew Winner. For a full transcript of this episode, visit matthewcwinner.com.  Write to me or send me a message at matthewmakespods@gmail.com.  Our podcast logo was created by Duke Stebbins (https://stebs.design/).  Our music is by Podington Bear.  Podcast hosting by Libsyn.  You can support the show and buy me a coffee at www.matthewcwinner.com. We are a proud member of Kids Listen, the best place to discover the best in kids podcasts. Learn more at kidslisten.org. Fellow teachers and librarians, want a way to explore building a stronger culture of reading in our communities? In The Reading Culture podcast, Beanstack co-founder Jordan Bookey hosts conversations that dive into beloved authors' personal journeys and insights into motivating young people to read. And I am a big fan! Check out the Reading Culture Podcast with Jordan Bookey, from Beanstack. Available wherever podcasts are found. DISCLAIMER: Bookshop.org affiliate links provided for any book titles mentioned in the episode. Bookshop.org support independent bookstores and also shares a small percentage of any sales made through this podcast back to me, which helps to fund production of this show.

John Schu and Lauren Castillo share This Is a Story, inviting us to imagine the myriad ways that books can foster connection and understanding--and how they can empower children, through their own passions, to transform the world.   BOOK DESCRIPTION: This Is a Story by John Schu; illustrated by Lauren Castillo Page Length: 40 pages Ages 4 to 8, Grades P to 3 Children's literacy advocate John Schu and Caldecott Honor recipient Lauren Castillo celebrate the power of finding the perfect book--in a story that's more relevant than ever. This is a word on a page. This is a page in a book. This is a book on a shelf . . . waiting. With a sea-horse kite in hand, a child heads out with Dad to the library. On the way they stop at a park, joining lots of people, some of whom are flying kites, too. At the library, a person toting a big pile of books hands over a story on a favorite subject: the sea horse. All around, there are readers poring over books, each with their own questions, ideas to explore, hopes for the future, and imaginations ready to spark. With a warm, lyrical text and tenderly expressive illustrations, John Schu and Lauren Castillo invite us to imagine the myriad ways that books can foster connection and understanding--and how they can empower children, through their own passions, to transform the world.   NOTABLE QUOTES: (7:44) “[Finding that just-right book] feels very soothing and it makes me think of the books that are the ones that I return to over and over again. Those are like comfort objects to me.” (8:30) “A book often walks into our life when we need it the most.” (8:45) “We know that books can make our hearts grow. They can make our hearts change. And they can make our hearts more compassionate.” (12:11) “And right away we see [that] the way that I define story is probably different from how you define story, Matthew. And how you define story, Matthew, is probably different from how Lauren defines story, so I love how everyone has their own personal definition of what the word story means.” (13:39) “Reading can be a workout for your heart, and reading can be a workout for your imagination.”  (14:23) “I feel that I am a better person because of all of the kids who I've met around the world.” (15:15) “Cities are the places I like to call home. And that's because I love to be surrounded by diversity and experience different cultures and different types of people. And when I illustrate, I always want the art to be representative of the many types of people in our communities.” (17:52) “Sometimes humans need help connecting.” (24:07) “Is there a book that feels like a best friend to you?” (24:33) “Don't be shy to ask your librarian or your teacher or your friends for suggestions if you're having a hard time finding books that you love. Because I know that, you know, for me as a kid sometimes it was hard for me to find those books that I loved without help. And so I would, I would urge you to, to reach out and ask for help because they're, those books are out there and they're waiting for you to find them.”    ADDITIONAL LINKS: John Schu Website - MrSchuReads  Lauren Castillo Website - laurencastillo.com. Purchase the Book - This Is a Story TALK ABOUT THE EPISODE: How would you describe the just-right book for you right now? What format (picture book, novel, graphic novel, novel in verse, etc.) does it use to share the story? What topic(s) is it about? What makes this book such a good fit for you? What is your relationship to story? What word or words come to mind when you hear the word “story”? What feelings come to heart? What memories? It can feel really satisfying when someone shares a recommendation with you that makes you feel like the are knowing or seeing you/your true self. Have you experienced this yet? If so, what did it feel like? If not, can you think of an opportunity you might have to make someone else feel seen in this way?   CREDITS: This podcast episode of The Children’s Book Podcast was written, edited, and produced by Matthew Winner. For a full transcript of this episode, visit matthewcwinner.com.  Write to me or send me a message at matthewmakespods@gmail.com.  Our podcast logo was created by Duke Stebbins (https://stebs.design/).  Our music is by Podington Bear.  Podcast hosting by Libsyn.  You can support the show and buy me a coffee at www.matthewcwinner.com. We are a proud member of Kids Listen, the best place to discover the best in kids podcasts. Learn more at kidslisten.org. Fellow teachers and librarians, want a way to explore building a stronger culture of reading in our communities? In The Reading Culture podcast, Beanstack co-founder Jordan Bookey hosts conversations that dive into beloved authors' personal journeys and insights into motivating young people to read. And I am a big fan! Check out the Reading Culture Podcast with Jordan Bookey, from Beanstack. Available wherever podcasts are found. DISCLAIMER: Bookshop.org affiliate links provided for any book titles mentioned in the episode. Bookshop.org support independent bookstores and also shares a small percentage of any sales made through this podcast back to me, which helps to fund production of this show.

Nonieqa Ramos shares Beauty Woke, a powerful story of pride and community, told with bold lyricism and the heart of a fairy tale, and readers looking for a next-generation Sleeping Beauty will fall in love with the vivid art and lyrical text. BOOK DESCRIPTION: Beauty Woke by Nonieqa Ramos; illustrated by Paola Escobar Page Length: 32 pages Ages 4 to 7, Grades P to 3 Beauty Woke is a powerful story of pride and community, told with bold lyricism and the heart of a fairy tale, and readers looking for a next-generation Sleeping Beauty will fall in love with the vivid art and lyrical text. Beauty is a Puerto Rican girl loved and admired by her family and community. At first, she's awake to their beauty, and her own--a proud Boricua of Taíno and African descent. But as she grows older, she sees how people who look like her are treated badly, and she forgets what makes her special. So her community bands together to help remind her of her beautiful heritage. NOTABLE QUOTES: (6:50) “You are loved. You are adored. There are teachers who love and adore you. There are so many people out there who think you matter. You're special. And you do [matter].” (8:58) “What do we do when we know that the child is going to experience hurtful things? We prepare them. We say to them that, “No matter what you hear, if anybody says something mean about your skin color or that you're from, you know, from Puerto Rico or Cuba or wherever it is, or that's your LGBT, that's all false. That's not true. That's all lies. The truth is your beauty.”  (10:49) “[Being woke] means to appreciate the beauty of where you come from, your history, the beauty of who you can become. All of the parts of you. All of the parts of you, no matter what it is that is out there or that's going to confuse you and try to make you think otherwise.” (13:05) “Sometimes when we create something, we can change something that's sad or that makes us feel helpless into something good.” (14:30) “There are so many adults who have never, ever, ever gotten to experience a picture book that not only represented, you know, what they look like, what they sounded like, which is absolutely vital. But also, you know, what they were going through. And validating them and saying, “Yes, that's real. What you went through is real.And,” for example, “if you're hearing hurtful words, I'm sorry that happened.” And “This is a process of healing for you.”  (20:38) “t's a great opportunity to just really be a hundred percent loving who we are as humans.” (25:22) “I would like to ask, have you hugged yourself today? Have you talked to yourself today and said something kind to you? How are you going to take care of your mind and your body and your heart today? That's what I want you to ask. ” ADDITIONAL LINKS: NoNieqa Ramos Website - nonieqaramos.com Purchase the Book - Beauty Woke Purchase the Book - Your Mama TALK ABOUT THE EPISODE: What can you recall from the telling of Sleeping Beauty you first heard? In what ways does NoNieqa’s Beauty Woke sound similar? In what ways does the story differ? How would you describe your roots? What place do you most associate with home? What feelings come to mind when you think of this place? What is one flag with which you associate strongly? Maybe it’s a flag that represents your favorite sports team, or your Scout troop, or you state or country, or part of your identity. How would you describe this flag? What makes it significant to you? How might you reimagine a different fairy tale so that it told your story? What elements of the fairy tale feel similar to your story? What parallels might you draw? CREDITS: This podcast episode of The Children’s Book Podcast was written, edited, and produced by Matthew Winner. For a full transcript of this episode, visit matthewcwinner.com.  Write to me or send me a message at matthewmakespods@gmail.com.  Our podcast logo was created by Duke Stebbins (https://stebs.design/).  Our music is by Podington Bear.  Podcast hosting by Libsyn.  You can support the show and buy me a coffee at www.matthewcwinner.com. We are a proud member of Kids Listen, the best place to discover the best in kids podcasts. Learn more at kidslisten.org. Fellow teachers and librarians, want a way to explore building a stronger culture of reading in our communities? In The Reading Culture podcast, Beanstack co-founder Jordan Bookey hosts conversations that dive into beloved authors' personal journeys and insights into motivating young people to read. And I am a big fan! Check out the Reading Culture Podcast with Jordan Bookey, from Beanstack. Available wherever podcasts are found.   DISCLAIMER: Bookshop.org affiliate links provided for any book titles mentioned in the episode. Bookshop.org support independent bookstores and also shares a small percentage of any sales made through this podcast back to me, which helps to fund production of this show.  

Natasha Khan Kazi shares Moon's Ramadan, a debut picture book and modern holiday classic capturing the magic and meaning of one of the world's most joyful and important celebrations.   BOOK DESCRIPTION: Moon's Ramadan by Natasha Khan Kazi Page Length: 40 pages Ages 4 to 8, Grades P to 3 With radiant and welcoming art, this debut picture book and modern holiday classic captures the magic and meaning of one of the world's most joyful and important celebrations. It's Ramadan, the month of peace, and Moon watches over Ramadan traditions with excitement and longing in this sweetly illustrated debut. In Egypt, India, Argentina and the United Arab Emirates, in Somalia, New Zealand and Indonesia, in Turkey, the United Kingdom and the United States, children and their families do good deeds in honor of those who have less. Cleverly blending glimpses of different countries' celebrations with the corresponding phases of the moon, Moon's Ramadan makes Ramadan, one of the world's most widely celebrated traditions, accessible and exciting for all readers.    NOTABLE QUOTES: (6:54) “[Ramadan] feels light because everyone's on their best behavior, hopefully, and trying to be kind and trying to be patient.” (8:07) “[Ramadan is] all about feeding the other person first”  (10:06) “It was one of the top three best experiences in my life because small children are so…  They're so open-minded. They're so honest. And they felt the joy that our family felt. And they like, they just met us there in that place of joy.” (10:38) “When I wrote and illustrated this book, I really hoped that other Muslim kids would feel proud, but I also wanted their friends, um, to support them and be even better friends.” (17:46) “Veil means a cloth that covers the head. And I am surrounded by smart, strong Muslim women who wear something called the hijab, which is a veil that covers the head, including my mom.”  (18:31) “Since I knew the story was gonna be from the point of view of Moon, I wonder what she was thinking in that moment when twilight was happening and she was slowly appearing to the world. She might feel like she's a little veiled and that no one has yet noticed her, but she is noticing everyone.” (20:55) “I feel in our heart that we are all, no matter what you believe, we are all different types of bread. And the bread itself is the same. I think we all believe in compassion and kindness, but it takes different forms and we practice that form in different ways.” (21:52) “They say sometimes when you illustrate, you have to draw the world as you want to see it. And this was really one of those moments.” (22:47) “Go and read other Ramadan books because every perspective is different. And I love that you would read my perspective, but there's a lot of perspectives out there.” (23:18) “Always stay curious, open-minded and honest. When we learn from each other, we learn something about ourselves. I want you all to look around the room and see that we are all unique and that's a beautiful thing. Same is boring. So please be proud of your identity.”   ADDITIONAL LINKS: Natasha Khan Kazi Website - www.natashakhankazi.com Purchase the Book - Moon's Ramadan IslamiMommy - IslamiMommy   TALK ABOUT THE EPISODE: What phase is the moon in as you look up in the sky tonight? How would you describe it? When will the new lunar cycle begin? If this was your first time hearing about Ramadan, what details can you remember that Natasha shared? What are some of the things you might see, smell, or taste during the holy month of Ramadan? If you observe Ramadan in your family, what are some of the traditions that you and your loved ones practice? What are some of the things you most look forward to throughout the month? Who are some of the people with whom you celebrate? Natasha reminded us that a main focus during Ramadan is practicing acts of kindness. What are some ways you could show kindness in your classroom? In your home? When you’re out in your community?   CREDITS: This podcast episode of The Children’s Book Podcast was written, edited, and produced by Matthew Winner. For a full transcript of this episode, visit matthewcwinner.com.  Write to me or send me a message at matthewmakespods@gmail.com.  Our podcast logo was created by Duke Stebbins (https://stebs.design/).  Our music is by Podington Bear.  Podcast hosting by Libsyn.  You can support the show and buy me a coffee at www.matthewcwinner.com. We are a proud member of Kids Listen, the best place to discover the best in kids podcasts. Learn more at kidslisten.org. Fellow teachers and librarians, want a way to explore building a stronger culture of reading in our communities? In The Reading Culture podcast, Beanstack co-founder Jordan Bookey hosts conversations that dive into beloved authors' personal journeys and insights into motivating young people to read. And I am a big fan! Check out the Reading Culture Podcast with Jordan Bookey, from Beanstack. Available wherever podcasts are found.   DISCLAIMER: Bookshop.org affiliate links provided for any book titles mentioned in the episode. Bookshop.org support independent bookstores and also shares a small percentage of any sales made through this podcast back to me, which helps to fund production of this show.  

Kim Rogers shares Just Like Grandma, a story about wanting, more than anything, to be just like the special elder in your life.    BOOK DESCRIPTION: Just Like Grandma by Kim Rogers; illustrated by Julie Flett. Page Length: 32 pages Ages 4 to 8, Grades P to 3 In this lyrical picture book by Kim Rogers (Wichita), with illustrations by Boston Globe-Horn Book Honoree Julie Flett (Cree-Métis), Becca watches her grandma create, play, and dance--and she knows that she wants to be just like Grandma. Becca loves spending time with Grandma. Every time Becca says, "Let me try," Grandma shows her how to make something beautiful. Whether they are beading moccasins, dancing like the most beautiful butterflies, or practicing basketball together, Becca knows that, more than anything, she wants to be just like Grandma. And as the two share their favorite activities, Becca discovers something surprising about Grandma. NOTABLE QUOTES: (5:00) “I wanted to write a story about the beautiful relationship that grandchildren and grandparents have, specifically a granddaughter with her grandmother.” (6:04)  “Our elders are so full of life and joy and experience and they keep doing things, you know, later and later in life.” (7:39)  “So many of us, no matter what our family background is, if we're Native or non-Native, when we get together to have a meal, it's a big deal and it's how we show one another love and we fellowship together.” (11:18) “One thing about elders and my Wichita culture is we hold them in such high esteem, but, and I'm trying not to cry here telling you this story, but they also hold children in high esteem. And my grandfather held me in such high esteem, and so it's just so touching for me to think about.” (12:39) “If you're a reader and you're a kid and you think you wanna be a writer someday, the cool thing about being a writer is you don't have to sit down and just write continuously. You need to go out into the world and experience it.” (15:58) “A child is in the sunrise phase of their life, and an elder is in the sunset phase of their life.” (16:56) “Find your joy. Find the beautiful things in life that you want to do, and go and do them. And you may just inspire someone like your mom or your dad, or your aunt or uncle, big brother, little sister. You just never know. Just go out there and do the things that you “   ADDITIONAL LINKS: Kim Rogers Website - kimrogerswriter.com Purchase the Book - Just Like Grandma TALK ABOUT THE EPISODE: Who is a special elder in your life, whether a grandmother or grandfather, parent, or community member? What makes this individual special to you? What is something you have learned from an elder in your life?  What is something you have taught an elder? What does it feel like to think of this special elder in your life? What senses light up as you think of them? Is there something particular you see in your mind? Smell? Feel? Or, perhaps, taste or remember tasting? Watch a sunrise or sunset this week. What do you notice? How does it change over time? How does it make you feel?  CREDITS: This podcast episode of The Children’s Book Podcast was written, edited, and produced by Matthew Winner. For a full transcript of this episode, visit matthewcwinner.com.  Write to me or send me a message at matthewmakespods@gmail.com.  Our podcast logo was created by Duke Stebbins (https://stebs.design/).  Our music is by Podington Bear.  Podcast hosting by Libsyn.  We are a proud member of Kids Listen, the best place to discover the best in kids podcasts. Learn more at kidslisten.org.DISCLAIMER: Bookshop.org affiliate links provided for any book titles mentioned in the episode. Bookshop.org support independent bookstores and also shares a small percentage of any sales made through this podcast back to me, which helps to fund production of this show.  

Kaitlin McGaw and Tommy Shepherd of Alphabet Rockers share YOU ARE NOT ALONE, a story reminding us that when we step up to support one another, we can make a world where everyone knows they belong.   BOOK DESCRIPTION: You Are Not Alone by Alphabet Rockers; illustrated by Ashley Evans. Page Length: 56 pages Ages 4 to 8 It can be scary to feel like you're all on your own, especially in the face of prejudice and injustice. But always remember: you are not alone! With uplifting text and colorful art, You Are Not Alone shows readers that when we step up to support one another, we can make a world where everyone knows they belong. Featuring a heartfelt message and stunning illustrations, this special story makes for a read-aloud that parents, caregivers, and children will want to return to again and again. NOTABLE QUOTES: (8:48) “It's really our job as your adult friends, in a way, to make sure that other adults and kids know that your story matters and you're actually like, ‘We believe you’.”  (11:57)  “ When you sing you actually can let go of some stuff. You can just be really in your soul for a minute. And even if you're feeling the sad parts or the mad parts, it's still you. You're you.” (12:29)  “Sometimes you sing out and dance out and people don't make you feel good, but that's about them. It's not about you.” (12:36) “The biggest time that I feel like  I wish I was being heard was when I'm, unfortunately, talking about something some type of injustice or some type of way that isn't okay.” (21:47) “Point to your neighbor and tell 'em, “I got your back” on both sides. I got your back. You know you shine.”   ADDITIONAL LINKS: Alphabet Rockers Website - alphabetrockers.com Purchase the Book - You Are Not Alone TALK ABOUT THE EPISODE: What are ways that you help your friends and classmates feel included? What are ways that others have included you in activities or games? Who is an adult that you trust? What is it about this adult (the language they use with you, their behavior, their overall approachability) that makes them someone who you feel like you can turn to? What are some things that make you feel good? Do they include games? Activities? Doing something with others? Doing something by yourself? Make a list of five things that make you feel good, then share your list with someone who also listened to this podcast episode. How are your lists similar? How are they different? What might be an activity that you could do together that would make you both feel good? Who is someone you could reach out to today to say, “I got your back”? What does it mean to have someone’s back? What does it look like? CREDITS: This podcast episode of The Children’s Book Podcast was written, edited, and produced by Matthew Winner. For a full transcript of this episode, visit matthewcwinner.com.  Write to me or send me a message at matthewmakespods@gmail.com.  Our podcast logo was created by Duke Stebbins (https://stebs.design/).  Our music is by Podington Bear.  Podcast hosting by Libsyn.  We are a proud member of Kids Listen, the best place to discover the best in kids podcasts. Learn more at kidslisten.org.   DISCLAIMER: Bookshop.org affiliate links provided for any book titles mentioned in the episode. Bookshop.org support independent bookstores and also shares a small percentage of any sales made through this podcast back to me, which helps to fund production of this show.

Introducing the winners and honors of the Sydney Taylor Book Award (2023), presented annually by the Association of Jewish Libraries to outstanding books for children and teens that authentically portray the Jewish experience.   ADDITIONAL LINKS: Sydney Taylor Book Award Website - link 2023 Sydney Taylor Book Award Blog Tour - link Purchase any of the Books - link   TALK ABOUT THE EPISODE: What types of stories are honored by the Sydney Taylor Book Award? What other book awards have you encountered? And what kinds of special stories or characteristics do they celebrate? What was one of the books that stood out to you from the 2023 Sydney Taylor Book Award winners and honors? What made this book sound especially appealing to you?   CREDITS: This podcast episode of The Children’s Book Podcast was written, edited, and produced by Matthew Winner. For a full transcript of this episode, visit matthewcwinner.com.  Write to me or send me a message at matthewmakespods@gmail.com.  Our podcast logo was created by Duke Stebbins (https://stebs.design/).  Our music is by Podington Bear.  Podcast hosting by Libsyn.  We are a proud member of Kids Listen, the best place to discover the best in kids podcasts. Learn more at kidslisten.org.

Traci Sorell and Madelyn Goodnight share POWWOW DAY, an uplifting, contemporary Native American story about a girl named River, who is recovering from illness and can't dance at the powwow this year.    BOOK DESCRIPTION: Powwow Day by Traci Sorell, illustrated by Madelyn Goodnight Page Length: 32 pages Ages 8 to 8, Grades P to 3 In this uplifting, contemporary Native American story, River is recovering from illness and can't dance at the powwow this year. Will she ever dance again? River wants so badly to dance at powwow day as she does every year. Follow River's journey from feeling isolated after an illness to learning the healing power of community. Additional information explains the history and functions of powwows, which are commonplace across the United States and Canada and are open to both Native Americans and non-Native visitors.    NOTABLE QUOTES: (4:55) “There's so much to see and do. The sights and smells. So much good food. So much great dancing and music. [Powwow is] just such a beautiful event that lasts all day that really helps you connect with that heritage and that culture and become immersed in it. ”  (5:12)  “For myself, being at a powwow is a sensory overload sometimes because there are wonderful smells from the food, and the sound of the drum, the laughter, the singing. I am overwhelmed visually by all the different regalia that everyone's wearing and all of the just gorgeous colors. And you know that so many people's families and friends have taken time to put that regalia together. So it's just visually so beautiful.” (7:17)  “Everyone is welcome at the powwow.” (11:58) “All of us at various times have to ask for help or have to take time out from things that we wanna do, that we love to do. And other people care for us, right? And love us and pray for us, and, um, help us through those things. ” (20:52) “You all have so many stories inside you and I can't wait to experience what you're gonna share with the world. So please, please share your stories with us. ”  (21:03) “I think Powwow Day and powwows in general about are all about celebration, celebration of heritage and culture and the things you like to do and dance, so I would encourage everybody to read Powwow Day and learn about powwows, but also just do something to celebrate yourself and celebrate your own culture and something you like to do. And, um, dancing is always a good way to do it.”   ADDITIONAL LINKS: Traci Sorell’s Website - TraciSorell.com Madelyn Goodnight’s Website - MadelynGoodnight.com Purchase the Book - Powwow Day Purchase the Book - Ancestor Approved: Intertribal Stories for Kids  Gathering of Nations - https://www.gatheringofnations.com/   TALK ABOUT THE EPISODE: What is a powwow? Can anyone participate in a powwow? What are some of sensory details (things you might see, hear, smell, touch) that Traci and Madelyn shared? Can you think of a time when you or someone in your family wore special clothes for an event? (baptism, wedding, powwow, bar or bat mitzvah, Eid al-Fitr, etc.) What were you (and others) celebrating? How did it feel to wear these special clothes? Have you ever missed out on something that you were anticipating or looking forward to? Share your memory with someone near you. What happened? What emotions did you feel at the time? How did things turn out?   CREDITS: This podcast episode of The Children’s Book Podcast was written, edited, and produced by Matthew Winner. For a full transcript of this episode, visit matthewcwinner.com.  Write to me or send me a message at matthewmakespods@gmail.com.  Our podcast logo was created by Duke Stebbins (https://stebs.design/).  Our music is by Podington Bear.  Podcast hosting by Libsyn.  We are a proud member of Kids Listen, the best place to discover the best in kids podcasts. Learn more at kidslisten.org.   DISCLAIMER: Bookshop.org affiliate links provided for any book titles mentioned in the episode. Bookshop.org support independent bookstores and also shares a small percentage of any sales made through this podcast back to me, which helps to fund production of this show.

Drs. Chelsea Johnson, LaToya Council, and Carolyn Choi of CLC Collective share LOVE WITHOUT BOUNDS, a story honoring the diversity of family life and what family can mean based on our intersecting identities and experiences.   BOOK DESCRIPTION: Love Without Bounds: An Intersectionallies Book about Families by Drs. Chelsea Johnson, LaToya Council, and Carolyn Choi Page Length: 48 pages Ages 6 to 12 This follow-up to the critically acclaimed IntersectionAllies: We Make Room For All honors the diversity of family life and what family can mean based on our intersecting identities and experiences. Written by three celebrated women of color sociologists, Love without Bounds: An IntersectionAllies Book about Families is a joyful, heartwarming celebration of family in all its forms: multicultural families; LGBTQ+ families; adoptive and foster care families; single-parent and blended families; transnational families; families impacted by incarceration, detention, and deportation; chosen families; military families; and more. By focusing on the choices families make to persistently love and care for one another in the face of inequality and inequity, Love without Bounds is a necessary resource to make sure all kids feel seen and loved for who they are in community with each another. Features gorgeous illustrations throughout by Ashley Seil Smith and a colorful, informative discussion guide that explains the concepts shown in the book.   NOTABLE QUOTES: (13:05) “Family can be really complicated.”  (13:22)  “Throughout the course of our lives, we may lose family, we may find family, we may rediscover family, we create our own families.” (14:09)  “There is no type of family that is normal or best.” (16:01) “We need to advocate for all families to be able to live and love and, you know, exist alongside one another.” (19:26) “The readers we have in mind are youth that are going through ups and downs of family life and transformation, as well as the adults who continue to process the impact of childhood families and our current experiences as adults, creating families of our own.”  (18:06) “All of [your] hopes, feelings, and struggles matter. Even in the moments and times that [you] don't feel family, [don’t] worry because [you] will discover family again and again throughout life. Starting with this library room. “   ADDITIONAL LINKS: Website - CLC Collective Purchase the Book - Love Without Bounds: An Intersectionallies Book about Families Purchase the Book - IntersectionAllies: We Make Room For All Dottir Press - https://www.dottirpress.com/love-without-bounds   TALK ABOUT THE EPISODE: Who is in your family? Who do you consider part of your family? What different types of relationships do you have with the people in your family? What is a “nuclear” family? Do you live in a nuclear family? If not, what word might you use to describe the kind of family in which you live? Dr. Chelsea mentioned that illustrator Ashley Seil Smith hid an animal on each page of Love Without Bounds as well as IntersectionAllies. Can you remember what kind of animal appears on each page? Why do you think it’s important to learn about families that look different from yours? How does your family look similar to the family in which your grownup grew up? How is it different?   CREDITS: This podcast episode of The Children’s Book Podcast was written, edited, and produced by Matthew Winner. For a full transcript of this episode, visit matthewcwinner.com.  Our podcast logo was created by Duke Stebbins (https://stebs.design/).  Our music is by Podington Bear.  Podcast hosting by Libsyn.  We are a proud member of Kids Listen, the best place to discover the best in kids podcasts. Learn more at kidslisten.org.   DISCLAIMER: Bookshop.org affiliate links provided for any book titles mentioned in the episode. Bookshop.org support independent bookstores and also shares a small percentage of any sales made through this podcast back to me, which helps to fund production of this show.

Benson Shum shares ANZU THE GREAT KAIJU, a story about a kaiju with an unconventional gift, and it’s sequel, ANZU THE GREAT LISTENER, which asks us to consider how not all acts of kindness are perceived as intended.   BOOK DESCRIPTION: Anzu the Great Kaiju by Benson Shum Page Length: 40 pages Ages 4 to 8 All great Kaiju are born with a super power to strike fear in the heart of the city. But Anzu is different. Instead of mayhem, he likes May flowers. Instead of striking fear, he prefers to be sincere. Can Anzu find a way to make his family proud and stay true to his kind self? From Disney animator and illustrator Bensom Shum comes an adorable and heartwarming picture book about making your own way and the unexpected power of gentleness.   Anzu the Great Listener by Benson Shum Page Length: 40 pages Ages 4 to 8 Anzu the kaiju loves to tend to his bonsai. Whenever he feels overwhelmed or unsettled, it helps him pause and reminds him to just . . . breathe. One day, when Anzu hears crying in the distance, he's eager to help! The flower-power that makes his bonsai bloom has a way of making others smile. But when Anzu's flowers seem to lose their power, hurting more than they help, he's not sure where to turn--until he remembers some valuable lessons he learned from his bonsai tree. In Anzu the Great Listener, creator and Walt Disney Studios animator Benson Shum illustrates the importance of patience, empathy, and above all, taking the time to listen.   NOTABLE QUOTES: (5:53) “What if not all of kaijus want to destroy? What if they wanna bring joy or kindness? What would that look like in their world?”  (7:13)  “Sometimes I  think it's a nice reminder to just listen, you know? And that silence between the two can make all the difference.” (10:45)  “I think even kids, when they find something that's individual to them, making them happy, would actually make people around them just as happy, ” (14:53) “We all listen in different ways. Just letting the person finish what they're saying is an act of listening, you know? …And maybe not trying to solve a problem if they have a problem and just kind of let them speak what they're saying. And then,  if they ask for help, then maybe you can jump in and have a suggestion.  I think that's an act of listening as well.“ (18:06) “Be kind. Listen to one another. Ask your teacher, a librarian like yourself, a friend, a family member, “How are you doing today?” And listen to what they have to say. To be heard and listened to can make a person's day from just those few words.”    ADDITIONAL LINKS: Website - Benson Shum Purchase the Book - Anzu the Great Kaiju Purchase the Book - Anzu the Great Listener Teachers guide and activities - https://bensonshum.com/activities/ Anzu the Great Listener (Teacher’s Guide) - http://bensonshum.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/Anzu-the-Great-Listener-Guide-w-Activity-Kit.pdf Anzu the Great Kaiju (Teacher’s Guide) - http://bensonshum.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Anzu-the-Great-Kaiju-Guide.pdf   TALK ABOUT THE EPISODE: What are some examples of kaiju that you can think of? What kind of kaiju would you be okay with discovering was coming for a visit? What kind of kaiju would you definitely want to avoid? What are some ways in which Benson is similar to Anzu? In what ways are they different? What are ways that you are similar (or different) to Benson?  What does being a good listener look like to you? How does it sound? How does it feel? How does it make others feel? Why do you think the book jacket is called a “book jacket”? What purpose does the book jacket serve? Can you think of any other books you’ve encountered where the cover art differs from the jacket art? Why do you think an artist might do this?   CREDITS: This podcast episode of The Children’s Book Podcast was written, edited, and produced by Matthew Winner. For a full transcript of this episode, visit matthewcwinner.com.  Our podcast logo was created by Duke Stebbins (https://stebs.design/).  Our music is by Podington Bear.  Podcast hosting by Libsyn.  We are a proud member of Kids Listen, the best place to discover the best in kids podcasts. Learn more at kidslisten.org. DISCLAIMER: Bookshop.org affiliate links provided for any book titles mentioned in the episode. Bookshop.org support independent book stores and also shares a small percentage of any sales made through this podcast back to me, which helps to fund production of this show.