In this episode Krish dives into Northern Lights (The Golden Compass in the US), the first book in Philip Pullman’s legendary His Dark Materials trilogy. Packed with daemons, armoured bears, witches and a mysterious substance called Dust, this thrilling adventure follows Lyra Belacqua as she uncovers dangerous secrets and sets out on a daring journey to rescue her kidnapped friend.

Krish also sits down with Emily Drabble, Head of Children’s Books at BookTrust UK, the UK’s largest reading charity. Emily shares how BookTrust inspires children and families to discover the joy of reading, why it’s vital to start reading from birth, and how diverse and inclusive stories help every child see themselves in books.

Key topics covered in this episode:

• Northern Lights, a story full of magic, mystery and unforgettable characters.

• How BookTrust supports children and families with free books and reading programmes.

• Why representation and new voices in children’s literature matter.

• Tips for families to make reading fun and exciting at home.• The upcoming National Year of Reading 2026 in the UK.

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In this episode Krish dives into Dracula & Daughters by Emma Carroll, the first in a brand new historical fantasy series that is equal parts thrilling spooky and inspiring. The story follows Mina Cullers, a determined girl who dreams of becoming the first female doctor in her town. But when her best friend is bitten by a vampire Mina teams up with her bold sister Buffy and mysterious cousin Bella to save him before the vampire contagion spreads under the full moon.

Krish also sits down with Emma Carroll, bestselling author often called “the Queen of Historical Fiction.” Emma shares the inspiration behind Dracula & Daughters, how folklore from around the world shaped her unique vampire lore and why it is so important for children to see brave clever heroines at the heart of stories. Together they explore how books teach empathy, the challenges facing children’s reading today and the magic of finding that one story that makes you say “more please.”

Key topics covered in this episode:

• How Emma Carroll reinvented vampire myths for a new generation of readers
• Why strong brave characters in stories matter for children
• The reading for pleasure crisis and why it needs urgent attention
• How books nurture empathy courage and understanding of the wider world
• The importance of sharing stories with friends and family
• Why every child can be a reader if they find the right book
• The book Emma would time travel to give her younger self and why

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Website: ⁠ https://emmacarrollauthor.wordpress.com/

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In this episode, Krish dives into Small Wonder by Ross Montgomery, a thrilling story about bravery, loyalty, and adventure, following young Tick and his little brother Leaf as they face dangers on the edge of the kingdom of Ellia.

Krish also sits down with Dr. Erin Bailey, Vice President of Literacy Programmes and Research at Reading Is Fundamental (RIF), one of the most important literacy charities in the United States. Dr. Bailey shares the challenges kids face in developing a love for reading, how representation in books can inspire children and ways families can make reading a fun, everyday habit.

Key topics covered in this episode:

• Why children read more when they see themselves in stories
• The power of book ownership and choice through RIF’s book celebration events
• How technology and e-books are changing kids’ reading habits
• Tips for creating family reading routines that stick
• Inspiring children to share stories and become reading role models

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Website: http://rossmontgomery.co.uk/

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Website: https://www.rif.org/

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