In this episode of the Book Fair Podcast, Anthony interviews author, illustrator, and educator Steve Giddings about his children's book , Mikey's Place. The conversation delves into themes of belonging, friendship, and the importance of finding one's place in the musical landscape. Giddings discusses the interactive edition of his book, how he incorporates it into education, and the creative process behind his writing. He emphasizes the significance of student feedback and the empowerment that comes from allowing children to choose their instruments and express themselves through music. The episode concludes with reflections on the journey of creativity and the importance of validating students' emotions.

New Releases:

• The Freedom Seeker by Ruchira Gupta

• The Library of Unruly Treasures by Jeanne Birdsall, illus. by Matt Phelan

• • The L.O.V.E. Club by Lio Min

  Chapters

  
  

  00:00 Introduction

  03:29 The Interactive Edition of Mikey's Place

  08:20 Using Mikey's Place in Education

  13:59 Inspiration and Creative Process

  18:05 Incorporating Student Feedback into Future Works

  20:20 Empowering Students Through Music Education

  22:08 New Releases

  
  

Joan Reardon:

• writingreardon.com

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

• jstebelton@ralaw.com

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

New Releases:

• Codebreaker by Jay Martel

• Evil-ish by Kennedy Tarrel

• The Library of Curiosities by Jenny Lundquist

• The Metamorphosis of Bunny Baxter by Barbara Carrol Roberts

• Schoolbot 9000 by Sam Hepburn