The Reader's Heart | Guest: Corinna Luyken

In this episode, author/illustrator Corinna Luyken joins Jennifer to discuss her lifelong love for reading and the influence of her early library experiences. She shares how her passion for language and poetry led her to become a picture book author and illustrator. Corinna emphasizes the power of picture books in fostering connection and inclusivity, and the importance of asking better questions. She also discusses her book ABC and You and Me and the inspiration behind it. In this conversation, Corinna and Jennifer discuss the importance of movement in learning and how it can be incorporated into educational settings. They also explore the power of inclusive illustrations in children's books and the impact they can have on readers. Finally, they touch on Corinna's upcoming projects, including a book about a community of people who are very good at arguing and an ocean-themed book.

Show notes and other information related to this episode (including a discount code from Bookelicious) can be found here.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Personal Connection

01:19 Early Love for Reading and Library Experiences

02:18 Influence of Language and Poetry

05:22 Connection Between Read Aloud Experiences and Becoming a Picture Book Author and Illustrator

08:49 The Power of Picture Books and the Golden Age of Picture Books

11:21 Themes of Connection and Inclusivity in Picture Books

15:29 The Importance of Connection and Asking Better Questions

20:36 The Book 'ABC and You and Me'

27:50 The Inspiration Behind 'ABC and You and Me'

32:42 The Importance of Movement in Learning

36:16 Creating a More Inclusive World Through Books

37:40 Upcoming Projects