An Interview with Joan Reardon | The Book Faire: July 31, 2025

Joan Reardon:

• writingreardon.com

• https://www.ralaw.com/people/joan-stebelton

• [e-mail]

In this episode of the Book Fair Podcast, Anthony interviews author Joan Reardon about her middle grade novel, Dad Rock Dragon Quest. The conversation delves into the book's themes of family dynamics, the importance of agency for young characters, and the inspiration behind the characters and rock music elements. Joan shares her writing journey, balancing her career as a lawyer with her passion for writing, and offers valuable advice for aspiring writers. The episode concludes with Joan's vision for her readers and the joy she hopes to bring through her stories.

New Releases:

• The Last Tiger by Brad and Julia Reiw

• Masks by Brian Nathanson and Margaret Rae, illustrated by Beck Kurbick

• A Mastery of Monsters by Liselle Sambury

Chapters

00:00 Introduction

02:54 Exploring Family Dynamics

05:51 The Role of Parents in Middle Grade Fiction

09:09 Character Development and Inspirations

11:54 Themes of Love and Understanding in Family

15:06 Writing Journey and Balancing Law and Literature

19:47 Advice for Aspiring Writers

26:40 New Releases

31:58 South Carolina Lawsuit