S4 · E5
August 22 · 36 min
RI
Reading in The Middle
Annisha Jeffries
Welcome to Reading in the Middle, the podcast dedicated to exploring the captivating world of middle-grade books, hosted by Annisha Jeffries, Librarian and literary enthusiast. Each episode dives into stories that inspire and entertain readers ages 8 to 12. Join Annisha as she discusses the latest and greatest in middle-grade literature, shares insights on character development, themes, and writing styles, and reads exciting excerpts to bring these books to life. Whether you're a parent or an educator, "Reading in the Middle" is your gateway to discovery.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
- 20 episodes
- Avg 37 min
- English
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S4 · E4August 18 · 40 minJudith Jacques on Gardenland: Friendship, Inclusion & Belonging
When a single garden party splits into two, everyone faces the choice of where to belong. On this episode of Reading in the Middle, Annisha Jeffries discusses with author Judith Jacques her children’s book, Gardenland: The Peas' and Carrots' Party Shake-Up, illustrated by Trevor Pacelli. The story captures Gardenland's excitement for its annual celebration, which is disrupted when Peas and Carrots decide to host separate parties. This turn of events challenges the community's tradition and prompts Betty Beet to find a solution. With ingenuity and her friends' help, she works to reunite Gardenland. Judith explains the inspiration for Gardenland, the creation of Betty Beet and her quirky friends, her collaboration with Trevor Pacelli, and how she uses humor to explore children’s real feelings: friendship, exclusion, belonging, empathy, conflict resolution, and inclusivity. She also shares her personal connection through her grandmother, Bubbie Rose, the first gardener she knew, whose influence inspired Gardenland’s world. The conversation highlights a vibrant story with a meaningful message: everyone deserves to belong. Connect with Judith Jacques: 🌱 Gardenland Books: GardenlandBooks.com Learn more about Gardenland: The Peas' and Carrots' Party Shake-Up, meet the Gardenland characters, and discover more from the series at GardenlandBooks.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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S4 · E3August 18 · 23 minLittle Monsters with Máire Roche | A Spooky Little Women Reimagining
What if the March sisters were hiding more than just family secrets? In this episode of Reading in the Middle, Annisha Jeffries interviews author Máire Roche about her new middle-grade novel, Little Monsters, a spooky, humorous reinterpretation of Little Women. Meg, Jo, Beth, and Amy are sisters with a very unusual secret: they are monsters. While Meg strives to protect her family and keep their secret, she also faces questions about belonging, identity, fear, and being accepted for who she really is. Máire discusses why she chose Meg as the story's focal point, how each March sister corresponds with her own monstrous alter ego, the significance of setting the story near Salem, and the enjoyment and challenges of reimagining beloved characters with supernatural elements. We also explore themes of sisterhood, family, anxiety, secrecy, and the idea that our hidden parts often define us. Additionally, Máire participates in a lively rapid-fire round about monsters, March sisters, spooky environments, and more. Little Monsters by Máire Roche is available now, perfect for fans of middle-grade fantasy, supernatural mysteries, spooky tales, family narratives, Little Women retellings, and stories about finding your place. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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S4 · E2August 12 · 24 minGhost in the Night with Tiffany D. Jackson
What if the ghost you’re searching for isn’t the only story waiting to be uncovered? In this episode of Reading in the Middle, Annisha Jeffries chats with award-winning author Tiffany D. Jackson about her new middle-grade novel, Ghost in the Night. Twelve-year-old Harmony Roundtree enjoys photography, ghost tours, and the idea that those we've lost might still linger. After her beloved grandmother's passing, Harmony travels with her father and his blues band, taking ghost tours in each city and hoping her camera will prove ghosts exist. In Savannah, Georgia, Harmony becomes entangled in a mystery where history, memory, grief, and the supernatural intertwine. Tiffany and Annisha discuss creating Harmony’s memorable voice, the emotional connection between Harmony and her grandmother, photography as a tool for memory, Savannah’s haunted history, Gullah Geechee traditions, and the role of storytellers in shaping narratives about real people and painful pasts. They also ponder one of the novel’s key questions: Who has the right to tell history, and what if the most entertaining story isn’t the factual one? This is a conversation about ghosts, grief, family, history, and discovering that sometimes what we seek isn’t quite what we expect. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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S4 · E1August 3 · 18 minTicket to Mars Author Kieran Fanning | Reading in the Middle Podcast
What would you risk for a chance at a better future? In this episode of Reading in the Middle, host Annisha Jeffries interviews Irish author Kieran Fanning about his middle-grade science fiction novel, Ticket to Mars. They discuss the inspiration for the story, Veon Windbourne's unforgettable journey from a flooded Earth to the Martian city of Harmonia, and explore themes like justice, inequality, hope, and belonging woven into the narrative. Kieran also talks about his writing process, research on life on Mars, and why stories of courage and resilience resonate with young readers. The episode also highlights his diverse works, including the Codecrackers series, The Black Lotus, The Arrival, Irish Fairy Tales, Myths and Legends, Haunted Ireland, and Enchanted Ireland. Whether you're a middle-grade reader, teacher, librarian, parent, or sci-fi enthusiast, this discussion offers an engaging look into the mind of a creative storyteller. In this episode: The inspiration behind Ticket to Mars Creating the world of Harmonia Writing believable middle-grade heroes Science fiction and social justice Kieran Fanning's writing process His favorite moments from the novel A fun lightning round About Reading in the Middle Hosted by Annisha Jeffries, Reading in the Middle features thoughtful conversations with today's leading middle-grade authors, celebrating the stories that inspire young readers to think, imagine, and discover the joy of reading. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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S3 · E30July 28 · 31 minT. C. Kemper on The Ginghams | A Spooky Middle Grade Mystery About Friendship & Conformity
What occurs when an entire town becomes eerily perfect? In this episode of Reading in the Middle, Annisha Jeffries interviews debut middle-grade author T. C. Kemper about her haunting new mystery, The Ginghams. When twelve-year-old Joni Bird returns from summer camp, Olive Springs no longer feels like the town she knew. Her best friend May has swapped her wild curls and drums for a neat bun and believes drumming is “unladylike.” The local ice cream shop now only serves vanilla, neighbors dress alike, and a mysterious new family with unsettling smiles appears to be behind it all. The mystery centers on the Ginghams’ Thursday night book club, where members return as perfectly polished “model citizens." Determined to uncover the truth and save May and Olive Springs, Joni and Tyler start their investigation. T. C. Kemper discusses creating suspense for young readers, crafting memorable friendships, developing the strange world of Olive Springs, and examining the risks of conformity and perfectionism. She also shares her journey to publishing her debut middle-grade novel and her hopes for what readers take away from it. The Ginghams is set to release on July 28, 2026. Subscribe to Reading in the Middle, leave a review, and share this episode with a reader who loves creepy mysteries, strong friendships, and stories about the courage to be oneself. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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S3 · E29July 25 · 39 minChristina Diaz Gonzalez on Offside: Soccer, Friendship, and Gender Equity
Award-winning author Christina Diaz Gonzalez joins Annisha Jeffries on Reading in the Middle to talk about her new bilingual middle-grade graphic novel, Offside, illustrated by Mari Costa. The story features the Jackson Middle School boys’ soccer team going co-ed for the first time, though not everyone is happy about it. Christina discusses creating characters like Nicky, Fabiola, Palmer, Seba, and AL, five students facing issues such as competition, friendship, family expectations, language challenges, and the fight for equal sports opportunities. The conversation covers how Fabiola’s confidence on the field contrasts with her English learning struggles, Palmer’s new purpose after a torn ACL, Nicky’s refusal to tone down her ambitions, and Al’s questioning of inherited beliefs. Christina also addresses the disparities in resources for girls’ teams, the responsibility of sharing others’ stories, and a humorous animal-filled plan that unites the team. With the energy of a soccer game and the depth of a story about finding your place, Offside shows that belonging is about more than just getting on the field; it’s about respect and being valued afterward. Tune in for a thoughtful discussion on bilingual storytelling, teamwork, gender equity, identity, advocacy, and the courage to challenge the status quo. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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S3 · E28July 23 · 34 minEmma Otheguy on Adventure in the City of Stories, Pura Belpré, and the Power of Books
Award-winning author Emma Otheguy returns to Reading in the Middle to discuss her new middle-grade novel, Adventure in the City of Stories, illustrated by Poly Bernatene. Camila, Jorge, and Siggy are back for another journey through time. After valuable artifacts connected to pioneering librarian and storyteller Pura Belpré mysteriously appear in Tía Xía’s closet, the cousins are transported to New York City during the Great Depression. There, they must protect Pura’s legacy, clear their aunt’s name, and help Antonia, a courageous Puerto Rican girl fighting injustice in her community. In this thoughtful and lively conversation, Emma and Annisha explore why Camila’s story begins with Spanish-language books being rejected at school and what happens when children are made to believe that their language, culture, or stories do not belong. They also discuss the remarkable connections among Pura Belpré, Arturo Schomburg, and Gabriela Mistral; how libraries and archives preserve evidence of communities that history has too often ignored; and why reading can become a source of dignity, resistance, and collective power. Emma shares how she balances serious history with humor, magic, and a fast-moving adventure—and why Camila does not need to become fearless in order to become courageous. In This Episode Annisha and Emma discuss: Camila’s anger and the emotional effects of censoring children’s books Why sharing a book can be an act of friendship and resistance Pura Belpré’s work as a librarian, writer, puppeteer, and storyteller The magic of the Pérez and Martina puppets Arturo Schomburg, Gabriela Mistral, and preserving Latino history The relationship between literacy, labor, and collective action Giving readers compassion for a character without excusing the harm he causes Writing historical fiction that remains exciting and accessible Why every child deserves to recognize that their language and story belong Emma Otheguy’s books for young readers include Silver Meadows Summer, Sofía Acosta Makes a Scene, Cousins in the Time of Magic, The Madre de Aguas of Cuba, Martí’s Song for Freedom, A Sled for Gabo, and Martina Has Too Many Tías. Her work frequently explores family, Latin American history, language, identity, and belonging. Adventure in the City of Stories is the newest companion novel in the Cousins in the Time of Magic series. It was published by Atheneum Books for Young Readers and illustrated by Poly Bernatene. Connect with Emma Otheguy Subscribe to Emma’s Substack: Emma Otheguy’s Newsletter Emma’s Substack includes news about her books, reflections on writing and family life, reading recommendations, giveaways, and behind-the-scenes updates about her work. Learn more about the book: Adventure in the City of Stories Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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S3 · E27July 19 · 51 minWinsome Bingham on On Fridays, Honoring Elders, Grief, and Giving People Their Flowers
Show Notes Reading in the Middle with Annisha Jeffries In this heartfelt episode of Reading in the Middle, Annisha Jeffries welcomes author Winsome Bingham to talk about her upcoming picture book, On Fridays, illustrated by Jason Griffin and published by Neal Porter Books/Holiday House. On Fridays follows Jamar, a young boy who spends Fridays with his mother at the residential building where she works. What begins as a weekly routine becomes something much deeper: a story about elders, community, caregiving, grief, memory, and learning how to keep loving someone after they are gone. Annisha and Winsome talk about the powerful line at the center of the book: “We amongst family. Treat them as such.” They discuss Jamar’s relationships with Miss Neely, Mr. Dillon, and Mr. Riff; the importance of honoring elders as whole people; and how Miss Neely’s garden becomes a place of memory and healing. This conversation also explores how children understand grief, why picture books can help families talk about loss, and what it means to give people their flowers while they are still here. Winsome also shares more about this exciting season in her career, including recent and upcoming books such as Soul Food Sunday, The Walk, The Table, Life Is Beautiful, Missing Momma, Fish Fry Friday, the Fort Goode books, Together, and Auntie’s Dance. In This Episode Annisha and Winsome discuss: The story behind On Fridays Why Fridays become such an important ritual for Jamar The meaning of “We amongst family. Treat them as such” How children learn care by watching adults Writing elders with joy, personality, and dignity Miss Neely’s garden and the power of remembrance How children process grief when they do not have all the words yet Giving people their flowers while they are still here Working with illustrator Jason Griffin The connection between On Fridays and The Table Winsome’s books about family, food, grief, joy, memory, and community Her upcoming books Together and Auntie’s Dance How librarians, teachers, caregivers, and families can use On Fridays with young readers About the Book On Fridays is a tender story about Jamar, a young boy who accompanies his mother to the residential building where she works. Each Friday, he spends time with the elders there, including Miss Neely, Mr. Dillon, and Mr. Riff. Through gardening, music, conversation, and care, Jamar begins to understand that community can become family. When Miss Neely dies unexpectedly, Jamar has to make sense of loss in his own way. With time, love, and the garden Miss Neely cherished, he learns that remembering can also be an act of care. On Fridays is written by Winsome Bingham and illustrated by Jason Griffin. About Winsome Bingham Winsome Bingham is the author of Soul Food Sunday, The Walk, The Table, Life Is Beautiful, Missing Momma, Fish Fry Friday, and the Fort Goode books. Her work often centers family, food, Black joy, grief, memory, community, and the people who help children understand who they are and where they belong. Learn more about Winsome at BinghamWrites.com. Follow her on Instagram at @ArmyVetFive. Books Mentioned On Fridays Soul Food Sunday The Walk The Table Life Is Beautiful Missing Momma Fish Fry Friday Fort Goode Together Auntie’s Dance Chapter Markers 00:00 — Welcome to Reading in the Middle 02:00 — Introducing Winsome Bingham and On Fridays 05:00 — Winsome’s current season of books 09:00 — Where On Fridays began 14:00 — Jamar, his mother, and the lesson of care 19:00 — Miss Neely, Mr. Dillon, Mr. Riff, and honoring elders 25:00 — The garden, the flower, and remembering 31:00 — Writing grief honestly for children 37:00 — Jason Griffin’s illustrations and working together again 41:00 — Winsome’s recent and upcoming books 46:00 — Librarian connections and using On Fridays with young readers 49:00 — Lightning round and closing thoughts Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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S3 · E26July 15 · 50 minThe Spark Experiment: Matt Manning & Matt Loux on Friendship, STEM, Creativity & Middle Grade Adventure | Reading in the Middle
What happens when science, imagination, and friendship collide? In this episode of Reading in the Middle, Annisha Jeffries talks with Matt Manning and Matt Loux, the creative team behind The Spark Experiment, to delve into the engaging world they’ve built for middle-grade readers. Together, they discuss: The inspiration behind The Spark Experiment Creating memorable characters kids will root for Why STEM and creativity belong together The collaborative process of writing and illustrating a graphic novel Hidden details and Easter eggs readers should look for Encouraging curiosity, resilience, and problem-solving Whether you’re a teacher, librarian, parent, or middle-grade reader, this conversation is packed with laughter, behind-the-scenes stories, and plenty of inspiration. 📚 Book: The Spark Experiment by Matt Manning & Matt Loux 🎙️ Hosted by: Annisha Jeffries Subscribe for more conversations with today’s best middle-grade authors. The Spark Experiment, Matt Manning, Matt Loux, Reading in the Middle podcast, middle grade books, graphic novel interview, STEM books for kids, science adventure books, middle grade graphic novels, children’s books podcast, librarians, teachers, book recommendations for kids, friendship books, creativity in education, books for ages 8-12, graphic novels for tweens, middle school readers, Andrews McMeel Kids, Annisha Jeffries #TheSparkExperiment #MattManning #MattLoux #ReadingInTheMiddle #MiddleGradeBooks #GraphicNovel #STEMBooks #KidsBooks #ChildrensBooks #BookPodcast #Teachers #Librarians #BookTube #MiddleSchoolReads #ReadMore Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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S3 · E25June 20 · 57 minJason Douglas on Jane American: Family History, Courage, and a Ringo Award-Winning Graphic Novel
The Family Story Behind Jane American | Jason Douglas on History, Identity, and Courage
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S3 · E24June 14 · 41 minWhat Makes a Good Leader? Trevor B. Spisto on The Tiger and the Crane | Reading in the Middle
What happens when compassion and fear collide? In this episode of Reading in the Middle, host Annisha Jeffries sits down with Trevor B. Spisto, author of The Tiger and the Crane, a compelling middle-grade novel set in Qing-era China. Together, they explore the story of Mung, a young crane who discovers an orphaned tiger cub just as his village prepares to choose its next leader. Trevor discusses the inspiration behind the novel, the wisdom of Master Guan, writing memorable animal characters, and the themes of leadership, courage, belonging, community, grief, and compassion that drive the story. This thoughtful conversation is perfect for middle-grade readers, teachers, librarians, parents, homeschool educators, and anyone who loves children's literature that sparks meaningful discussion. In This Episode: The inspiration behind The Tiger and the Crane Writing middle-grade historical fantasy Leadership lessons for young readers The role of compassion and empathy in storytelling Creating memorable animal characters Trevor B. Spisto's writing journey Advice for aspiring young writers Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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S3 · E23June 10 · 37 minExploring Japan Through Graphic Novels with Matthew Loux | My Journey to Japan: Escape to Yokai Mountain | Reading in the Middle
What happens when a family trip to Japan turns into an adventure filled with yokai, samurai, festivals, and magical portals? In this episode of Reading in the Middle, host Annisha Jeffries talks with author and illustrator Matthew Loux about his newest graphic novel, My Journey to Japan: Escape to Yokai Mountain. Together they discuss Japanese folklore, cultural exploration, graphic novel storytelling, drawing by hand, and how books can inspire curiosity about the world around us. Matthew also shares the inspiration behind Penny, Paulie, and Shimesu's unforgettable journey, his love of Japanese culture, and why adventure stories can be powerful tools for learning. Perfect for: 📚 Librarians 🍎 Educators 👨👩👧👦 Families 📖 Graphic Novel Fans 🌎 Readers Interested in World Cultures Topics discussed: • Japanese folklore and yokai • Graphic novels for middle-grade readers • Japanese culture, food, and festivals • Travel through storytelling • Creating art by hand • Encouraging curiosity and global awareness Books Mentioned: My Journey to Japan: Escape to Yokai Mountain The Time Museum Prunella and the Cursed Skull Ring The Spark Experiment Salt Water Taffy #ReadingInTheMiddle #MatthewLoux #GraphicNovels #MiddleGradeBooks #KidLit #Yokai #Japan #JapaneseCulture #LibraryPodcast #TeacherResources #BookPodcast #ChildrensBooks #GraphicNovelPodcast #ReadingRecommendations Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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S3 · E22June 5 · 36 minMatthew J. Gilbert on The New Norm, Stranger Things, and Writing for Middle Grade Readers | Reading in the Middle
What happens when an ordinary middle school kid suddenly becomes internet famous? In this episode of Reading in the Middle, host Annisha Jeffries talks with bestselling author Matthew J. Gilbert about his new middle-grade novel, The New Norm, a funny and relatable story about viral fame, friendship, identity, and surviving middle school. Matthew shares how his career evolved from an award-winning television writer at Nickelodeon to an author of more than 40 books for young readers. We also discuss his work writing stories set in the worlds of Stranger Things, The Nightmare Before Christmas, and other beloved franchises, as well as the challenges and rewards of writing for today's middle-grade audience. Whether you're a fan of humorous middle-grade fiction, pop culture adventures, or stories about finding your place in the world, this conversation is packed with insight, laughter, and inspiration. In This Episode: The inspiration behind The New Norm Writing about social media and middle school life Creating stories for popular franchises From television writing to children's books Why humor matters in middle-grade fiction Advice for aspiring young writers Connect with Matthew J. Gilbert: Official Website Listen to More Reading in the Middle: Join Annisha Jeffries for conversations with today's most exciting middle-grade authors, illustrators, and creators. Discover new books, behind-the-scenes stories, and reading recommendations for tweens, educators, librarians, and families. #MiddleGradeBooks #MatthewJGilbert #TheNewNorm #ReadingInTheMiddle #ChildrensBooks #MiddleGradeAuthor #StrangerThingsBooks #KidLit #BookPodcast #AnnishaJeffries #BooksForTweens #LibraryPodcast #MGBooks #AuthorInterview #ReadingRecommendation Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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S3 · E21June 2 · 38 minSlaying Dragons, Finding Courage: Candace Lee & Eric Newman on George Goodwin, Dragon Slayer
What do scouting, hidden treasure, coal mines, and dragons have in common? In this episode of Reading in the Middle, host Annisha Jeffries welcomes New York Times bestselling authors Candace Lee and Eric Newman to discuss their thrilling new middle-grade fantasy adventure, George Goodwin, Dragon Slayer: A Scouting Legend. Candace and Eric bring an impressive storytelling background to the page. Their work spans Disney+, NBCUniversal, Sony Pictures, feature films, music production, bestselling novels, and collaborations with Bear Grylls. Together, they've created the Order of the Dragon Slayer series to inspire young readers to face life's challenges with courage, resilience, and hope. We discuss the creation of George Goodwin, an unlikely hero determined to clear his father's name and save his struggling Appalachian town. Along the way, we explore scouting culture, friendship, cinematic storytelling, dragon mythology, and why today's readers still need stories about bravery. Plus, stay tuned for our lightning round, where we talk about favorite dragons, adventure movies, campfire snacks, and more. Show Notes In This Episode 🐉 Meet New York Times bestselling authors Candace Lee and Eric Newman 🎬 How careers in Disney+, NBCUniversal, Sony Pictures, and television storytelling influenced their writing process 🏕️ Why scouting became the foundation of the Order of the Dragon Slayer series ⛏️ The inspiration behind Big Mountain, West Virginia, and the mysterious coal mines beneath it 💎 Hidden treasure, dragon lore, and legendary quests 📚 The influence of The Goonies, Jurassic Park, and classic adventure stories on the series ❤️ Creating emotionally authentic middle-grade heroes ⚔️ What it means to "slay life's dragons." 🎙️ A lightning round featuring favorite dragons, campfire snacks, adventure films, and books that inspired them as young readers About the Book George Goodwin, Dragon Slayer: A Scouting Legend Twelve-year-old George Goodwin believes a legendary treasure hidden beneath Big Mountain, West Virginia, could save his struggling town and clear his father's name. When a scouting trip turns into an unexpected quest, George and his friends find themselves facing collapsing tunnels, dangerous thieves, ancient secrets, and a fire-breathing dragon unlike anything they imagined. The first book in the Order of the Dragon Slayer series blends classic adventure storytelling with friendship, courage, humor, and heart. About the Authors Candace Lee Candace Lee is a writer and producer whose work includes Emmy-winning programming for Disney+, concert films featuring Andrea Bocelli, collaborations with Bear Grylls, and bestselling novels. She studied film and television production at New York University and co-authored the New York Times and USA Today bestseller Miracle at the Higher Grounds Café. Eric Newman Eric Newman has written and produced Emmy-winning television, bestselling novels, and feature films for Disney, NBCUniversal, Sony Pictures, and Penguin Random House. He served as a writer and executive producer on Bear Grylls's global adventure series and co-created the Order of the Dragon Slayer series. Links Mentioned in This Episode Official Order of the Dragon Slayer Website Order of the Dragon Slayer Series Official Book Page George Goodwin, Dragon Slayer: A Scouting Legend Publisher Page Penguin Random House Book Page Connect with Reading in the Middle 🎙️ Hosted by Annisha Jeffries 📚 Exploring middle-grade books, authors, and the stories that inspire young readers. 🎧 Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Acast, and wherever you listen to podcasts. #ReadingInTheMiddle #GeorgeGoodwinDragonSlayer #CandaceLee #EricNewman #MiddleGradeBooks #MiddleGradeFantasy #DragonSlayer #BookPodcast #ScoutingAdventure #ChildrensBooks #MGBooks #AuthorInterview #Bookstagram #Libraries #MiddleGradeReaders #FantasyBooks #OrderOfTheDragonSlayer #AnnishaJeffries Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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S3 · E20May 28 · 36 minReading in the Middle: Diane Debrovner & Stacy Cervenka on Roxie in Color, Disability Representation, Art, and Middle School Identity
In this heartfelt episode of Reading in the Middle, host Annisha Jeffries speaks with co-authors Diane Debrovner and Stacy Cervenka about their touching middle-grade novel, Roxie in Color, launching on June 2. The discussion covers Roxie’s journey through friendship, anxiety, art, and identity as she faces seventh grade while hiding a personal secret: both her parents are blind. Annisha and the authors examine the novel's emotional use of color, Nash the guide dog’s narration, and the delicate balance between visibility, belonging, and self-protection. They also talk about collaboration, disability representation in middle-grade fiction, the importance of depicting systemic barriers realistically, and the choice to typeset the book in Atkinson Hyperlegible a font made for low-vision readers. If you love thoughtful middle-grade books about courage, creativity, friendship, and finding your place in the world, this is an episode you won’t want to miss. Diane Debrovner on Instagram Stacy Cervenka is the director of the Iowa Department for the Blind and previously led the Blind Parents Group of the National Federation of the Blind. Roxie in Color by Diane Debrovner and Stacy Cervenka Publication Date: June 2, 2026 Publisher: Candlewick Press Reviews & Praise School Library Journal Review Connect with Reading in the Middle 📸 Instagram: @reading_in_the_middle Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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S3 · E19May 26 · 35 minThe Star of Moon Village Author Jennifer Ann Richter on STEM, Space Travel, Friendship & Fame | Reading in the Middle Podcast
What would happen if middle school students got the chance to travel to the Moon? In this episode of Reading in the Middle, Annisha Jeffries welcomes Jennifer Ann Richter back to talk about her exciting new middle-grade novel, The Star of Moon Village. Set in 2079, the story follows twelve-year-old Priscilla Cobb, an aspiring Black scientist selected for the first student research voyage to Moon Village. Priscilla hopes to honor her late mother’s legacy and finally experience the legendary lunar labs she has dreamed about her entire life. But once she arrives, the mission becomes increasingly focused on celebrity culture, media spectacle, and entertainment — especially with the arrival of pop star Starletta. Jennifer and Annisha discuss STEM representation in middle-grade fiction, realistic lunar science, rivalry and friendship, the future of Moon exploration, and how NASA’s current Artemis missions inspired excitement around returning humans to the Moon. This episode is perfect for readers who love space adventures, emotionally grounded middle-grade novels, STEM stories, and books that inspire curiosity and wonder. Show Notes In this episode, we discuss: Writing Priscilla Cobb as an authentic middle school STEM character Building the futuristic world of Moon Village Science vs. celebrity culture Friendship, rivalry, and emotional growth STEM representation for young readers Lunar science and realistic Moon living NASA’s Artemis Program and the future of Moon exploration Why librarians, educators, and parents can use this book for STEM conversations The emotional heart underneath the science fiction setting Curiosity, perseverance, and teamwork in middle-grade fiction NASA & Artemis Links 🌕🚀 NASA Artemis Program NASA Artemis Program Artemis II Mission NASA Artemis II Mission Artemis II Multimedia & Photos NASA Artemis II Multimedia Resources Artemis Science NASA Artemis Science NASA Official Website NASA Official Website Artemis Blog & Updates NASA Artemis Blog Learn More About Jennifer Ann Richter Jennifer Ann Richter Official Website Jennifer Ann Richter on Instagram Recommended For Fans Of: A Rover’s Story The Lion of Mars The Miscalculations of Lightning Girl STEM-centered middle-grade fiction Space adventures with emotional depth Character-driven science fiction Books about curiosity, friendship, and ambition Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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S3 · E18May 22 · 48 minHope, Climate Science, and Storytelling with Danica Novgorodoff & Meera Subramanian
In this episode of Reading in the Middle, Annisha Jeffries sits down with Danica Novgorodoff and Meera Subramanian to discuss A Better World Is Possible, a powerful nonfiction graphic novel exploring climate change, youth activism, environmental justice, and hope. Together, they discuss their collaborative creative process, the challenges of balancing climate science with emotional storytelling, and why graphic nonfiction can be such an impactful format for young readers. The conversation also explores the experiences of four young climate activists featured in the book, the importance of centering youth voices, and how storytelling can help readers move from fear toward action and community. This thoughtful discussion highlights the power of books to inspire conversation, empathy, and imagination while reminding readers that meaningful change begins with people willing to care, speak up, and work together toward a better future. Links and Resources: https://www.instagram.com/ABetterWorldTheBook/ https://abetterworldthebook.org/ https://abetterworldthebook.org/#resources-learn https://danicanovgorodoff.com/ https://meerasub.org/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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S3 · E17May 12 · 31 minGhosts, Friendship & Finding Your Voice with Megan Wynne | The Spirit of Loughmoe Abbey | Reading in the Middle
What if the dead could help the living? In this episode of Reading in the Middle, Annisha Jeffries sits down with author Megan Wynne to discuss her haunting and heartfelt middle-grade novel, The Spirit of Loughmoe Abbey. Set in 1980s Ireland, the story follows Gwen, a neurodivergent girl sent to a mysterious boarding school while her mother is hospitalized. Struggling to fit in and desperate to help her family heal, Gwen encounters a spirit who may hold the answers to secrets buried deep within Loughmoe Abbey. Annisha and Megan discuss: • Writing neurodivergent representation in historical fiction • Why this ghost story is more hopeful than frightening • Boarding school dynamics, friendship, and belonging • Grief, mental health, and emotional resilience in middle grade • Creating atmospheric settings filled with mystery and heart If you love middle-grade books with emotional depth, ghostly mysteries, and unforgettable characters, this episode is for you. 📚 Featured Book: The Spirit of Loughmoe Abbey by Megan Wynne 🎙️ Hosted by Annisha Jeffries #MiddleGradeBooks #ReadingintheMiddle #MeganWynne #GhostStory #ChildrensBooks #BookPodcast #MiddleGradeMystery #NeurodivergentRepresentation Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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S3 · E16May 8 · 31 minChristopher Bodmann on the *Kid Comet* Books, Writing Superheroes, and Middle Grade Storytelling
What makes a superhero truly memorable? On this episode of Reading in the Middle, Annisha Jeffries sits down with author Christopher Bodmann to discuss the creative world behind the Kid Comet books and the art of writing superheroes for middle-grade readers. Together, they explore storytelling, character development, imagination, humor, and the deeper themes that shape heroic journeys. Christopher shares insights into building the Kid Comet universe while creating action-packed adventures that readers can emotionally connect with. From epic battles to relatable middle school moments, the Kid Comet series blends heart, courage, and adventure in ways that keep readers turning the page. Whether you love superhero stories, graphic novels, or conversations about the power of storytelling, this episode is full of inspiration for readers, educators, librarians, and aspiring writers alike. 🎧 Tune in and step into the world of Kid Comet. #ReadingInTheMiddle #KidComet #ChristopherBodmann #MiddleGradeBooks #KidLit #SuperheroStories #BookPodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.