https://www.globalgalactics.com/

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In this episode of The Book Faire Podcast, host Anthony sits down with Karina and Timothy Karsten, the founders of Global Galactics, to discuss their innovative approach to early childhood education. We explore their mission to ignite curiosity and wonder in children aged 5-9 through the adventures of SparkStar, the galactic pup.

The conversation dives into the process behind their title, The Spark at the Center of the Universe, and how they bridge the gap between digital content and hands-on, tactile learning. Teachers and librarians will find valuable insights into using "Awe-Ventures" and storytelling to foster scientific exploration and social-emotional growth in the elementary school classroom. From the importance of primary source inspiration gathered from 22 countries to the ongoing fight for the freedom to read diverse, inspiring stories, Karina and Timothy share how we can empower the next generation to lead with both wisdom and wonder.

In this episode of The Book Faire Podcast, we break down the Books Save Lives Act of 2026, recently introduced by Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley to combat the rise in school library book bans. Host Anthony explores how this federal legislation aims to protect inclusive literature and support the freedom to read nationwide.

We also provide an essential roundup of new children’s book releases, offering valuable insights for educators, librarians, and parents. The conversation covers critical library news updates, including the Eighth Circuit's ruling on Iowa’s book ban and the Minnesota Supreme Court's upcoming librarian case. Join us to learn how these legislative developments and new diverse titles are shaping the future of the elementary school classroom.

New Releases:

• Three Pieces of Broken Glass by Emily Barth Isler, illustrated by Vesper Stamper (Ages 4-8)
• Forbidden Mountain by Brandon Mull (Ages 8-12)
• My Sister, the Freak by Dani Jones (Ages 8-12)
• The Delta Codex by Deva Fagan (Ages 10+)
• Rialto by Kate Milford (Ages 10+)
• Forgive-Me-Not by Mari Costa (Ages 14+)

https://mariadoloresaguila.com/

In this episode of The Book Faire Podcast, host Anthony interviews author María Dolores Águila about her new nonfiction picture book, A Sea of Lemon Trees: The Corridors of Roberto Alvarez. They discuss the historical significance of the Lemon Grove Incident—the first successful school desegregation case in the U.S.—and the importance of sharing these diverse stories with young readers. The conversation provides valuable insights for educators, librarians, and parents looking for curriculum-aligned resources that explore civil rights history in the elementary school classroom. María also shares her writing process and a roundup of recent children’s book releases that celebrate the freedom to read and the power of standing up for justice. Join us for a comprehensive look at how contemporary children’s literature can help students navigate our shared history.

In this episode of The Book Faire Podcast, host Anthony provides an essential roundup of new children’s book releases and educational publishing initiatives shaping the current literary landscape. We explore the latest diverse stories for young readers and offer a sneak peek into upcoming contemporary author interviews that dive deep into the creative process. This episode provides valuable insights for educators, librarians, and parents looking to integrate literary history and social-emotional learning into the elementary school classroom. From analyzing modern publishing trends to discussing the ongoing freedom to read, we highlight the books and curriculum-aligned resources that help children navigate a changing world. Join us for a comprehensive look at the newest titles on the shelf and the library news you need to stay informed.

New Releases:

• Baba Palooza by A.D. Ghani, illus. by Nadia Alam (Ages 4-8)
• Unbreakable: A Japanese American Family in an American Incarceration Camp By Minoru Tonai and Jolene Gutiérrez, illus. by Chris Sasaki (Ages 4-8)
• Feo the Chupacabra by Sequoia Blankenship, illus. by Rob Thompson (Ages 8-12)
• Just One Gift by Linda Sue Park, illus. by Robert Sae-Heng (Ages 8-12)
• Mixed Feelings by Sara Amini, illus. by Shadia Amin (Ages 8-12)
• Fruitcake by Rex Ogle, illus. by Dave Valeza (Ages 10-12)
• When You’re Brave Enough by Rebecca Bendheim (Ages 10-14)
• How to Be Normal by Ange Crawford (Ages 13+)
• Girl Reflected in Knife by Anica Mrose Rissi (Ages 14+)

https://www.annettebaypimentel.com/

https://www.faithpraybooks.com/

Celebrate the 100th anniversary of the world’s most famous bear with award-winning author Annette Bay Pimentel and illustrator Faith Pray as they discuss their new nonfiction picture book, How a Bear Became a Book. This episode offers teachers and librarians a deep dive into the bookmaking process, tracing the evolution of publishing techniques from the manual printing of 1926 to the digital innovations of 2026. By exploring the primary source research behind A.A. Milne’s legacy and the unique illustration techniques used to modernize a classic aesthetic, this conversation provides curriculum-aligned storytelling perfect for the elementary school classroom or library storytime. Join us to discover how the art of collaboration continues to champion the freedom to read and inspire a new generation of literary history.

The Rutherford County Library System board has voted 8-3 to fire Director Luanne James following her refusal to comply with directives to relocate over 130 children's books. In this episode, we break down the latest updates in this Tennessee library censorship battle, exploring the legal implications of viewpoint discrimination and the fight for the First Amendment in public spaces. Plus, we pivot to hope with a roundup of diverse new releases for young readers that celebrate the very freedom to read currently under threat.

New Releases:

• How a Bear Became a Book: The Collaboration That Created Winnie-the-Pooh by Annette Bay Pimentel, illus. by Faith Pray (Ages 4-8)
• Barbed Wire Between Us by Mia Wenjen, illus. by Violetta Encarnación (Ages 7-10)
• Wilderness Hacks by Joslin Borsen (Ages 8-12)
• Inbetweens by Faith Erin Hicks by (Ages 10-14)
• All That Chandi Knows by Kushboo Patel (Ages 10+)
• The Celestial Seas by T. A. Chan (Ages 12+)

https://tuibooks.com/

In this episode, Tui T. Sutherland dives deep into her acclaimed Wings of Fire series, a cornerstone of children's literature beloved by young readers everywhere. She discusses her process of crafting immersive worlds, developing rich characters, and exploring complex themes like war, empathy, and creativity. Tui also shares valuable insights for librarians, educators, and anyone passionate about kids' literature on maintaining engagement throughout a long-running series. Tune in for a thoughtful conversation about storytelling that captivates young readers and encourages a love for literature.

In this episode, Anthony dives deep into the world of children's literature, exploring the latest releases that young readers are excited about. We discuss the significant issue of book bans and how they are affecting communities, schools, and libraries. Additionally, Anthony covers recent legislation influencing educational content, providing vital information for librarians, educators, and parents alike. Stay tuned for an exclusive upcoming interview with Tui T. Sutherland, the renowned author of the Wings of Fire series, as we continue to celebrate middle grade and children's literature and its crucial role in young readers' lives.

New Releases:

• The Heart of Our Home by Janelle Washington (Ages 3-6)
• The Queen’s Granddaughter by Diane Zahler (Ages 8-12)
• Books Good Enough for You: The Storied Life of Ursula Nordstrom, Editor of Extraordinary Children’s Books by Nancy Hudgins (Ages 10-14)
• The Blue Dress by Rebecca Morrison (Ages 10-14)
• Charmed and Dangerous by Shelly Page (Ages 12+)
• The Free Verse Society by Delali Adjoa (Ages 14+)