Reading With Your Kids Podcast

Join us for a delightful episode featuring acclaimed picture book creators Marla Frazee and Julie Fogliano as they take us behind the scenes of their newest collaboration, "Because of a Shoe." Host Jed Doherty leads a warm, insightful conversation exploring the magic that happens when author and illustrator unite to craft memorable children's books. Julie shares the heartfelt inspiration behind her story—rooted in her own childhood and experiences as a mom dealing with the "shoe struggle"—and reveals how writing "Because of a Shoe" was both therapeutic and hilarious.
Marla dives into her creative process, describing how her love of tiny shoes and quirky childhood memories influenced her spirited illustrations. The duo discusses the joys and surprises of collaborating from opposite coasts, highlighting how trust and mutual respect allow each artist's style to shine, ultimately creating picture book magic.
Listeners will gain a unique view into the emotional storytelling that's made Fogliano and Frazee industry favorites—covering everything from the challenge of expressing big feelings in few words to finding that perfect, climactic visual twist (hello, bouncy house!).
Rounding out the episode is J E Morris, who shares the real-life tale behind "Flubby," her popular easy reader series inspired by her quirky, food-loving rescue cat. Morris talks about nurturing new readers and the joy of bringing relatable animal characters to life.
Tune in for creativity, laughs, and heartfelt insights into the world of children's literature!

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The episode delves into why Ebony chose to capture Tina Turner's essence in a fun, fictional narrative for children—spotlighting not only Tina's powerhouse stage presence but her humanity, resilience, and ability to empower others. Jed shares personal anecdotes, highlighting Tina's universal appeal and inspirational spirit. Ebony also opens up about her inclusive writing process and the importance of teaching kids about music legends, emotional intelligence, and self-expression.
Perfect for fans of Tina Turner, children's literature, and family-focused storytelling, this episode radiates warmth, authenticity, and a passion for empowering young readers. Don't miss this heartfelt tribute to Tina Turner's enduring influence and a sneak peek into how "Just Like Tina" encourages children to embrace their unique selves. For anyone seeking uplifting stories with soul, family, and rock & roll, this episode delivers!
We also listen back to our conversation with Candice Okin celebrating her picture book Joseph The Great.

Dive into this inspiring episode featuring Mariana Gordon and Sondra Bakinde, the dynamic duo behind The Meditating Mantis—a captivating new children's book series designed to teach mindfulness, breathing, and emotional resilience to kids and their families. With backgrounds in school psychology (Mariana) and art and storytelling (Sondra), these mindful moms created the character Mio the mantis to help children explore emotions, master calming techniques, and embrace the true power of stillness. Their mission? To make mindfulness magical, accessible, and fun for both children and adults, and to bridge generational gaps with creative, non-clinical tools. They talk candidly about using their personal parenting experiences to shape the Mindful Mantis method, and how their curriculum—now adopted by eager schools—blends breathwork, movement, journaling, and affirmations so that every child can thrive, even in today's fast-paced, high-stress world.
Later in the episode, we're joined by Brittany Win Lee, author of Good Night Body: Finding Calm from Head to Toe. Brittany shares how her book gently introduces body scan meditation and relaxation to children at bedtime, drawing from her own journey as a parent and pastor.
If you're a parent, teacher, or anyone interested in empowering children with meditation, mindfulness, and emotional intelligence, this episode is packed with practical takeaways, heartfelt stories, and resources to support calm and connection in your family or classroom!

Step into a world where mad scientists roam the foggy streets of Victorian London! In this engaging episode of Reading with Your Kids, host Jed Doherty welcomes acclaimed author and illustrator S.H. Cotugno to dive into the hit graphic novel series, The Glass Scientists. Cotugno takes listeners behind the scenes of her creative process, revealing how classic Gothic fiction, quirky 19th-century science, and a mother's passion for English literature inspired the tale of Dr. Jekyll and his band of eccentric inventors. Discover how The Glass Scientists explores themes of identity, weirdness, and self-acceptance—all while balancing thrilling adventures and laugh-out-loud moments. S.H. shares insights into the evolving art of storyboarding for animation and how crafting strong, relatable characters helps young readers connect to complex emotions.
Later in the episode, Jake Wheeler joins the conversation to introduce his middle grade graphic novel, The Gull Father, the comedic story of a crime family of seagulls. Jake and Jed discuss the magic of fostering a lifelong love of reading, the evolution of comedy in children's books, and the importance of bonding over stories as a family.
Whether you're a parent looking to inspire your child or a graphic novel fan eager for new adventures, this episode celebrates storytelling, creativity, and the wild worlds of comics. Discover new favorites, fresh perspectives, and the secrets behind the stories kids (and parents) love!

Join us for a vibrant episode packed with creativity, inspiration, and innovation! First, we welcome YA author Katie Bernet as she shares the behind-the-scenes story of her debut novel, "Beth is Dead." Katie's book delivers a thrilling, modern-day twist on the classic "Little Women," reimagining the March sisters in a murder mystery set in contemporary Massachusetts. Katie reveals her creative process, how her real-life sisters inspired key moments, and the unexpected challenges of bringing these beloved literary characters to life for a new generation. Plus, discover what's next as Katie teases her upcoming retelling of "The Secret Garden."
Next, we chat with acclaimed author and illustrator Jess X Snow about "We Always Had Wings," a children's picture book blending magical realism with heartfelt stories of migration and identity. Inspired by Jess's own cross-continental childhood, this book empowers children facing big transitions and honors immigrant experiences. Jess also opens up about the artistic techniques behind her captivating illustrations, her love of collaboration, and the deeper messages she hopes readers—young and old—will take away.
Finally, Gro Dyrnes from Xplora introduces us to their innovative smartwatches designed with kids', teens', and seniors' safety in mind. Learn how Xplora empowers families with technology that brings independence to kids and peace of mind to parents, all while prioritizing safety and simplicity.
Don't miss this episode full of empowering stories, from modern literary adventures to real-world solutions for families!