Book Banning with Jan Zauzmer

The podcast episode explores the topic of book banning and features guest author Jan Zomer discussing her new children's book, "Down with Lime Books." The book addresses the theme of censorship through a metaphorical story using lime-colored books. Jan shares her inspiration for writing the book, highlighting the surge in book banning attempts and her desire to present big civic topics to children in an engaging and educational manner. The conversation also delves into the creative process behind the book and its potential to foster meaningful discussions about freedom of expression.

Episode Highlights

00:00:10: Host Adina Oberman introduces the podcast and guest, Jan Zomer, discussing her book, "Down with Lime Books," which addresses book banning using lime-colored books as a metaphor.

00:01:20: Jan Zauzmer shares the inspiration behind her book and the theme of book banning, aiming to raise awareness among children about the freedom to read.

00:02:06: Description of the book's story, where lime green books are removed by a town official, and children stand up for their right to read.

00:02:36: Jan explains the choice of the color lime for the book, highlighting its symbolism and appeal for children.

00:04:02: Discussion of the book’s symbols, including Paige's megaphone and the power of youth to make their voices heard.

00:05:13: Jan describes a favorite scene, highlighting the importance of civic participation and the creative process involved in writing the book.

00:07:02: The book's relevance to current discussions on book banning, its timeless themes, and efforts to document bans by organizations.

00:09:34: Jan expresses her hopes for the book's impact on children, encouraging them to cherish and protect the freedom to read.

00:11:00: Insights into Jan’s research process, including reading reports and articles on book banning and censorship.

00:13:18: Jan shares her journey to becoming a children's book author, emphasizing her goals to introduce important societal topics to children.

00:15:21: Jan acknowledges her team and family for their support, concluding with hopes for the book's success and impact.

Key Takeaways

Children can be introduced to serious topics like censorship through engaging stories that incorporate symbolism and metaphors.

Rising book banning highlights the importance of freedom of expression, revealing an ongoing need for advocacy and awareness.

The collaborative effort in publishing, from writing to illustrations and marketing, plays a critical role in bringing a book to life.

Fostering conversations about book bans and civic participation can empower both children and adults to stand up for their rights.

Tweetable Quotes

"Will the kids take a stand when the line books are banned?" - Jan Zauzmer

"I want the kids in the real world to grow up to celebrate and protect books from those who would snatch them." - Jan Zauzmer

"Book banning is nothing new. Censorship dates back hundreds of years." - Zauzmer

Earth Rover Mission with Taylor Woolley

In this episode of the "Helping Families Be Happy" podcast, host Adina Oberman chats with Taylor Woolley, an author and illustrator based in Atlanta, Georgia. They discuss Taylor's book, "Earth Rover," which is inspired by her late mini dachshund, Snoopy, and explores themes of S.T.E.M through imagination and storytelling. Taylor shares the creative process behind her story and its alignment with themes of dreaming big, perseverance, and challenging stereotypes. Additionally, she announces her upcoming work "Birthday Bash" and invites listeners to connect with her through her website and social media.

Episode Highlights

00:00:10: Introduction to the podcast and special guest Taylor Woolley, discussing her background and the inspiration behind her work.

00:01:28: Taylor expresses enthusiasm about being a guest on the podcast.

00:01:30: Query on the origin of "Earth Rover" and the influence of dogs on Taylor's storytelling.

00:01:46: Taylor recounts the inspiration derived from her late dog, Snoopy, and how it led to the creation of Rover's character.

00:02:54: The story of Rover and the creative process behind his character evolution. 00:03:33: Discussion on familial support and dedication during the book's production phase.

00:04:08: Observations on how the book reflects Taylor's passion, leading to intriguing storytelling.

00:05:03: Insights into S.T.E.M importance in storytelling and the significance of role models in various professions.

00:06:04: The book's underlying message on assumptions, perceptions, and the limitless possibilities for dreamers.

00:07:27: Creative process in blending pet ownership with the imaginative exploration of space.

00:08:27: Impact of real-world events on creative storytelling and Taylor's thoughts on narrative inspiration.

00:08:57: Announcement of Taylor's new book, "Birthday Bash," and her enthusiasm for upcoming projects.

00:09:23: Final engagement techniques and how listeners can connect with Taylor. 00:09:45: Information on where to purchase "Earth Rover" and concluding remarks. 00:09:57: Closing, appreciation for listeners, and encouragement for further engagement.

Key Takeaways

The importance of combining personal experiences with creativity to inspire storytelling. The value of exploring STEM topics through imaginative and relatable narratives. Encouragement for young audiences to dream big and challenge traditional roles and assumptions.

The influence of real-world events on creative inspiration and storytelling.

Tweetable Quotes

"Dream big regardless of whether you can see somebody else in that situation already." -Taylor Woolley

"Just because somebody doesn't look like you in the role currently doesn't mean that you should dream smaller." -Taylor Woolley

"Imagination knows no bounds, especially when your storytelling is inspired by a special companion." -Adina Oberman

Show Notes by Barevalue.

Four Walks in Central Park with Aaron Poochigian

In this episode of the Helping Families Be Happy podcast, host Christopher Robbins engages in a conversation with Aaron Poochigian, a poet and classicist, about his new book "Four Walks in Central Park." The book is notable for its unique genre, a poetic guidebook to Central Park, a renowned urban park in Manhattan. The conversation delves into the historical significance of Central Park, its planning and construction phases, as well as the park's evolution over time. Aaron also shares insights into the discipline of didactic poetry and how it can serve as an instructional yet engaging form of literature.

Listeners can explore the intricacies of Central Park and its details through Aaron's poetic depiction, which aims to provide an immersive experience akin to experiencing the park itself.

Episode Highlights 00:00:09: Introduction to the podcast and guest Aaron Poochigian, discussing family, love, relationships, and Aaron's credentials and upcoming book. 00:01:52: Aaron thanks for being on the show and notes the rainy weather in New York. 00:02:01: Conversation on being on different coasts and the benefits of technology for communication. 00:02:14: Aaron provides a brief history of Central Park, its origins, and important figures like Frederick Olmsted. 00:03:32: Details on the landscape design competition and the contributions of Olmsted and Calvert Vaux. 00:04:45: Discussion of Seneca Village and the transformation of the area for Central Park. 00:05:49: Exploration of the theme of artificial nature and the park's construction process. 00:06:42: Explanation of what constitutes a "landscaped park." 00:07:50: Details on the creation and design elements of Central Park, like the reservoirs and drainage systems. 00:08:28: Mention of the park's completion and opening, including the establishment of the zoo. 00:09:10: Conversation about Central Park's decline in the past and its revitalization in the 1980s. 00:10:11: Historical context on the park's periods of decline and renovation. 00:10:52: The role of the Central Park Conservancy in park maintenance. 00:11:56: Introduction to Aaron's book and the concept of a guidebook in poetic form. 00:12:56: Aaron explains why he chose poetry as the medium for his guidebook. 00:13:41: Discussion of how poetry helps avoid rambling and focuses on sensory details. 00:14:25: Inspiration behind creating a poetic guidebook to Central Park. 00:15:27: Connection to ancient didactic poetry and the revival of the genre. 00:17:04: The importance of new poetry genres and Aaron’s contribution. 00:17:54: Linking Japanese forest bathing with Central Park and Aaron's book. 00:19:39: Aaron's favorite place in Central Park—The Delacorte Theater. 00:20:27: Discussion of Central Park's ongoing construction and renovation projects. 00:21:26: Conclusion of the episode with information on where to find Aaron and purchase the book.

Key Takeaways

• Didactic poetry offers a unique method of storytelling and education, merging immersive sensory details with instructional content.
• Central Park’s creation was a monumental task involving transformation of undesirable land into a vibrant urban oasis.
• The park’s history of decline and rejuvenation underscores the importance of conservation efforts and community involvement.
• Mindfulness and intentionality, akin to Shinrin-yoku, can offer substantial wellness benefits and enhance one's experiential quality of life.

Tweetable Quotes

• "In the poetry, where I hope the poem will be immersive, that's where Shin Rin Yoku comes in." – Aaron Poochigian.
• "Poetry serves its purpose well, in the book for a number of reasons...I wanted the book to be an immersive experience." – Aaron Poochigian.
• "Central Park is like a giant birthday cake where nature is the icing on it." – Aaron Poochigian.
• "Didactic poetry serves to teach but in a beautiful, enduring way." – Aaron Poochigian.
• "There's a lot of construction in Central Park right now... it's like Manhattan, forever under construction." – Aaron Poochigian.

Show Notes by Barevalue.