The Reader’s Heart Podcast

Sarah Everett joins Jennifer to discuss her book The Probability of Everything and the power of books to connect readers. She shares her own experiences as a reader and the impact of books like Charlotte's Web on her as a reader and a writer. The importance of read-alouds and tackling tough topics in children's literature are also explored. Sarah talks about the process of writing and developing characters, as well as the mystery element in her book. She discusses reader reactions and the hope that her books spark important conversations.  Sarah concludes by sharing details about her upcoming book.
Show notes and other information related to this episode can be found here.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Background
01:48 The Power of Books to Connect
03:36 The Impact of Charlotte's Web
04:56 The Importance of Read-Alouds
06:22 Tackling Tough Topics in Children's Literature
07:44 Writing About Grief and Difficult Emotions
10:23 The Process of Writing and Developing Characters
12:54 The Mystery Element in 'The Probability of Everything'
14:59 Reader Reactions and Feedback
17:33 Using Children's Literature to Spark Conversations
19:42 The Importance of Supportive Secondary Characters
22:43 Finding Light in Darkness
26:04 Upcoming Book and Conclusion

In this episode of The Reader's Heart, Jennifer chat's with award winning author Kyle Lukoff. They discuss various topics, including the importance of empathy in children's literature, the role of reading in shaping a reader's heart, the process of writing and revision, and the theme of vegetables in Lukoff's books. Lukoff shares his perspective on transphobia and why he chooses not to include it in his characters' journeys. The conversation highlights the power of storytelling to create safe spaces and foster understanding.
Takeaways
Reading plays a significant role in shaping a reader's heart and informing how they navigate the world.
The process of writing involves constant revision
Transphobia is seen as deeply boring by Kyle Lukoff, and he chooses not to include it in his characters' journeys.
Children's literature has the power to create safe spaces and provide examples of how the world should be.
In the end, while children's literature is a powerful too, ultimately, we need public services and legislation to protect kids from systems and individuals who cause harm.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Transphobia
02:22 Reader's Heart and Reading Journey
04:25 Writing and Revision
06:45 Sharing Work and Imposter Syndrome
08:05 Creating Safe Spaces in Books
14:17 Themes of Vegetables and Social Constructs
18:29 Empathy in Children's Literature
25:30 The Role of Children's Literature in Challenging Times
33:03 Fruit and Vegetable Theme
34:05 Conclusion

In this conversation, Traci Sorell joins Jennifer to discuss her passion for storytelling and the importance of representation in literature. She emphasizes the need for diverse stories that reflect the experiences of Native people and dispel stereotypes. Traci also shares her writing process and the significance of incorporating Cherokee language and culture in her books. She encourages readers to connect with one another through stories and use their gifts and abilities to foster understanding and empathy.
More information about this episode, including a discount code for purchasing Traci's books through Bookelicious, can be found at librarygirl.net
Takeaways
Representation in literature is crucial for marginalized communities, as it allows readers to see themselves and their experiences reflected in stories.
Incorporating diverse perspectives and cultures in books helps dispel stereotypes and fosters empathy and understanding.
The writing process varies for each author, but it often involves considering the structure, format, and through line of the story.
Seeking feedback from critique groups, cultural experts, and language translators can enhance the authenticity and accuracy of storytelling.
Language reclamation and preservation are essential for Native communities, and publishing books in native languages helps promote cultural identity and understanding.
Storytelling has the power to connect people, bridge gaps, and promote empathy, making it a vital tool for building a more inclusive and compassionate society.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Fan Appreciation
01:25 The Reader's Heart
07:06 The Writing Process
12:35 Critique Groups and Feedback
15:51 Cherokee Language Books
26:23 Representation and Dispelling Stereotypes
36:43 Upcoming Projects
46:17 The Power of Storytelling

In this conversation, Jennifer LaGarde and John Schu discuss various topics related to reading, writing, and the power of connection. They explore John's journey as a reader and how he connects with characters and stories. They also delve into the importance of picture books and the role of poetry in John's writing. The conversation then shifts to John's latest book, Louder Than Hunger, a novel in verse that tackles the topic of eating disorders. Throughout the conversation, the theme of connection emerges as a central thread, highlighting the transformative power of stories. In this conversation, Jennifer LaGarde and John Schu discuss movies and musicals, the power of storytelling, and the importance of tossing away rules and connecting through story.
More information about this episode, including a discount code for purchasing John's books through Bookelicious, can be found at librarygirl.net
Takeaways
The connection between readers and stories is a powerful force that shapes our identities and perspectives.
Picture books can serve as a gateway to reading and can be a powerful tool for connecting with young readers.
Poetry plays a significant role in John's writing, allowing him to explore emotions and connect with readers on a deeper level.
Louder Than Hunger addresses the topic of eating disorders and the importance of seeking help and support.
Connection is a recurring theme in John's work, emphasizing the power of stories to bring people together and provide hope and healing.
John Schu as the President of the Kate DiCamillo Fan Club
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Reader's Heart
11:22 John as a Reader
16:07 Kate DiCamillo
18:09 Connection in Picture Books
21:21 Louder Than Hunger
26:30 The Importance of Connection
32:15 Favorite Movies and Musicals
33:11 The Power of Storytelling
33:51 Tossing Away Rules and Connecting Through Story