Adventures in the Heart of Children's Book Authors Podcast

Kevin Kripe, an accomplished author of three children's books, shares his insights on the process and inspiration behind his latest work, "Princess Max Conquers the World."

With a background in education spanning 27 years, Kevin's passion for storytelling was ignited during his teaching days, where he found joy in reading to children and witnessing their reactions to stories. He recounts the pivotal moments that motivated him to write, including his observations of societal issues and the unique experiences of his adopted children.

His experience with his adopted children from Guatemala profoundly influenced his writingallowing him to...

Why Fables Still Matter: Timeless Lessons for Today's Kids

Patti Bonesteel, an accomplished author of six children's books, articulates her journey of writing and the profound significance it holds in her life.

Central to our discussion is her book, "The Flamingo with Two Left Feet," which not only showcases her storytelling prowess but also emphasizes the themes of perseverance and self-acceptance.

The narrative revolves around Fernando, a flamingo grappling with self-doubt due to his unique predicament, and his eventual realization that individual differences can be celebrated rather than shunned.

We delve...

Episode 88

Jacqueline K. Boylan's profound work, "A Broken Twig Can Sprout," serves as the focal point of our discussion, encapsulating her journey from personal trauma to literary creation.

As a children's author, Jacqueline articulates the vital message that adverse childhood experiences do not have to define one's future; rather, they can cultivate resilience and growth.

Throughout the episode, we delve into Jacqueline's inspiring background, which includes overcoming significant childhood challenges, including the loss of both parents and the impact of familial abuse.

Her narrative not only provides insight into her creative...

Why This Children's Book Author Is Having the Conversations Parents Don't Know How to Start

What happens when a child can't find themselves in the books they're handed? For Brandon D. Campbell, that question wasn't hypothetical — it was personal. Growing up in a blended family, navigating the emotional complexity of childhood, and searching for representation in literature shaped him into the author of Oh Brother, My Brother. And in a recent episode of the Adventures in the Heart of Children's Book Authors podcast, he shared why that mission matters more than ever.

"Being a children's bo...

Peter Cotton, a distinguished author of children's literature, joins us to illuminate the journey of his literary career, focusing particularly on his latest work, "What Fred the Snake and His Friends Learn about the Chinese Zodiac and the Great Race." This episode delves into Peter's evolution from a medical professor to a celebrated children's book author, sparked by the inspiration of his grandchildren and the whimsical character of Fred the Snake. We explore the profound significance of storytelling in fostering curiosity and imparting subtle lessons to young readers. Peter shares insights into the creative process behind his books, the...

Richard Rieman's journey as a children's book author is an inspiring testament to the idea that it is never too late to pursue one's passions. In this podcast episode, we engage in a profound discussion regarding his two children's books, with particular emphasis on "The Day the Clouds Went Away."

Richard elucidates the significance of crafting narratives that resonate with children while also addressing essential themes, such as the importance of clouds in our ecosystem.

He shares insights into his creative process, which is deeply influenced by his experiences and desire to create accessible literature...

Kris Tarantino, a distinguished author of children's literature, shares her profound journey in the realm of children's book publishing.

The episode centers on her latest work, *BedSlime Blues*, which follows her debut book, *Be My ValenSlime*, published in 2023.

Through a candid discussion, we explore the intricate process of breaking into the traditional publishing market, an endeavor that Kris has diligently pursued for over a decade.

Kris reflects on the challenges and triumphs of her experiences, emphasizing the importance of perseverance, creativity, and the significant role of collaboration with illustrators and editors. The conversation...

The central theme of this podcast episode revolves around the profound impact of Deena Morris' children’s book, "Lessons from the Future: The Empowered Empath."

This work serves not merely as a narrative but as a transformative tool aimed at equipping the younger generation with essential emotional intelligence skills.

Deena, who identifies as an empath, draws upon her own life experiences to articulate the significance of understanding and managing emotions, particularly in the context of childhood.

Throughout our discussion, we delve into the intricate relationship between her personal journey and the lessons embedded wi...

Tanya Acquista, the esteemed author of "Money, Time" and "Have You Seen My Voice Box?", joins us today to expound upon her journey as a children's book author.

In this engaging episode, Tanya shares her insights on the duality of her roles as a children's book author and a speech-language pathologist.

The discussion offers an in-depth look at the creative process behind her books, particularly focusing on the developmental journey from her first publication to her latest work. Tanya articulates the challenges and victories she has encountered, reflecting on how each book has shaped her...

Joy Lanier, author of "Big Feels: The Diary of a Passionate Kitty," articulates the profound emotional journey inherent in children's literature.

This episode delves into her exploration of feelings, emphasizing the importance of vulnerability in sharing personal experiences through storytelling.

Joy's narrative reflects her own struggles with emotions, aiming to validate the experiences of children and adults alike.

We discuss the significance of creating a safe space for dialogue about feelings, encouraging authenticity in emotional expression.

Through this conversation, we aspire to inspire aspiring authors and foster a deeper understanding of...

This podcast episode delves into the enchanting world of children's literature, specifically focusing on Tricia Gardella, also known as National Park Grandma, and her captivating book titled "Mouse Visits Grand Canyon National Park."

The narrative follows the adventures of a mouse who has acquired the extraordinary ability to teleport to national parks, thus introducing young readers to the wonders of nature through a whimsical lens.

Throughout our discussion, we explore Tricia's journey as an author, her motivations for writing picture books, and the inspirations drawn from her own experiences as a rancher and nature enthusiast.<...

The primary focus of this podcast episode revolves around the intricate dynamics of children's book publishing, as articulated by Marlee Kostiner, the founder of Garden Wolf Publishing House.

As a self-published author who transitioned into publishing, Marlee elucidates the nuanced distinctions between self-publishing and independent publishing, emphasizing the importance of understanding one’s unique publishing journey.

Throughout our dialogue, we explore the multifaceted processes involved in turning a manuscript into a published work, including editing, storyboarding, and the selection of illustrators.

Additionally, Marlee shares her insights on the significance of creating value-added content, wh...

Karen B. Shea is a passionate children's book author whose works aim to connect young readers with the wonders of nature.

Her latest publication, "A Bug-Lightful Discovery," emphasizes the importance of appreciating even the smallest creatures. It presents an engaging narrative that encourages respect for all life forms.

Her writing is inspired by her profound love for the outdoors and her desire to combat nature deficit disorder among children, an issue she became aware of in the 1990s.

Throughout this conversation, we explore the creative process behind both her books, including the delightful...

Katie Kuperman, an accomplished children's book author, joins us to delve into her captivating series, which includes titles such as "Muddy Spokes," "Speedy Spokes," and "Spokes Blows a Tire."

Throughout our dialogue, Katie articulates her passion for connecting with young audiences and the significance of imparting core values such as resilience and emotional management through her narratives.

She shares the inspiration behind her books, drawing from personal experiences with her children and the lessons she wishes to impart. Additionally, we explore the intricate process of becoming a children's book author, including the challenges and triumphs...

The principal focus of this podcast episode is an insightful conversation with Sheri Fink, an accomplished author renowned for her children's literary works, particularly her latest book, "Beyond Words."

In our discourse, we delve into the profound significance of being a children's book author, exploring the emotional resonance that children's literature can engender in both young readers and their families.

Sheri elucidates the inspiration behind "Beyond Words," a project born from her experiences with children undergoing medical challenges, thereby intertwining the narrative with themes of empathy and resilience.

Furthermore, we examine the innovative...

The primary focus of our discourse today is the exploration of Chris McKenna's literary work, specifically his children's book, "Captain Olivia and the Treasure of Kindness."

Captain Olivia and the Treasure of Kindness, recently won an Open Book Award.

This episode delves into the profound significance of being a children's book author, particularly as a means of fostering connections across generations.

Chris articulates his motivation for writing, which is deeply rooted in his relationship with his granddaughter, Olivia May, who serves as the inspiration for his tales.

Throughout our conversation, we...

Marlee Kostiner, the author of the children's book "NaMOOste," joins us to discuss her unexpected journey into children's literature.

The central theme of our conversation revolves around the importance of social-emotional learning for children, which is intricately woven into her book through engaging animal characters and yoga poses.

Marlee shares the personal inspiration behind her work, highlighting how her experiences as a mother and her passion for writing culminated in this creative endeavor. We delve into the challenges she faced in the publishing process, particularly her decision to maintain creative control by self-publishing instead of...

The podcast episode showcases a riveting conversation with Steve Bradshaw, the author of the children's book "Brave at Home."

This book is a compilation of 19 individual stories designed to resonate with young readers, especially those who belong to families involved in emergency services.

The host, Rick commends the book's unique structure, emphasizing the exceptional value it offers by combining multiple narratives into a single volume.

Bradshaw expresses his intention to create a resource that not only entertains but also educates, allowing parents to engage their children in meaningful discussions during reading time.

Ralph Tufo, author of the esteemed "Seemore the Seagull Tales," articulates the imperative need to impart lessons in kindness through children's literature.

His series, situated at Revere Beach, Massachusetts—the inaugural public beach in the United States—endeavors to teach young readers about acceptance, cooperation, and empathy towards individuals with disabilities, while also addressing bullying.

Throughout our dialogue, I glean insights into Ralph's journey from educator to author, as well as the serendipitous moments that sparked his creative process.

The conversation further illuminates the intersection of storytelling and music, as Ralph integrates original song...

Carmella Alexander, the esteemed author of the "Fearless the Amazing Boy with Special Abilities" series, joins us to elucidate the profound motivations that underpin her literary endeavors.

The genesis of her work is intricately linked to her son Amir, who inspires her to create narratives that illuminate the experiences of children with disabilities.

Throughout our discourse, Carmella reflects on the significance of representation in children's literature, emphasizing the necessity for diverse characters that resonate with young readers facing similar challenges.

As we delve into her creative process, it becomes evident that her passion...

Catherine Clark Felts, an accomplished author of children's literature, imparts her profound insights on the essence of being a children's book author, emphasizing the significant impact of her narrative, *K.D.'s Journey*.

This episode delves into the evolution of her creative process, illustrating how her personal experiences, notably her familial connections, have shaped her storytelling.

Catherine candidly discusses the emotional layers embedded within her works, particularly with themes of grief and healing, underscoring her desire to foster connections between children and their caregivers.

As we navigate the intricacies of her writing journey...

Noel Foy, a distinguished author of children's literature, elucidates the profound significance of her vocation as a children's book author, particularly emphasizing her works, "ABC Worry Free" and "Are You a Bird Like Me?"

She articulates the honor and responsibility inherent in the role, recognizing the potential to impact not only children's lives but also the adults who guide them. Noel's narratives are meticulously crafted to address and alleviate children's anxieties, equipping them with essential tools to navigate their emotional landscapes.

Through her personal experiences and professional expertise, she seeks to foster resilience and a...

Luz, a newly minted children's book author, shares her profound experiences and insights regarding her debut work, "Sweet Playdate Club."

This episode delves into the significance of being a children's book author, as Luz reflects on the emotional resonance her storytelling creates within families.

She recounts heartwarming anecdotes, including the delightful impact her book has had on children, transforming reluctant readers into avid ones.

Furthermore, Luz elaborates on the inspiration derived from her daughter, which served as the catalyst for her writing journey, emphasizing the importance of cultural appreciation and familial bonding through...

The featured guest in this podcast episode is Rusty Austin, a published children's author who has transitioned from a successful 35-year career in the entertainment industry to writing engaging poetry for children.

He has authored several books, including "Awesome Bird the Pelican," and has collaborated with students to create illustrations for his work, thereby fostering creativity and engagement with the natural world among young readers. Rusty's journey into children's literature was inspired by his desire to entertain and educate children about animals and their habitats.

Throughout our conversation, he articulates the importance of accessibility in...

This podcast episode features an enlightening conversation with Kevin Lestarge, author of the children's book "Billy Finds Bigfoot."

At the forefront of our discourse is the profound significance of storytelling for children, which Kevin articulates as a means of imparting valuable life lessons.

He reflects on his journey to authorship, which was ignited by a fascination with the mythical figure of Bigfoot, and explores the personal motivations behind his creative endeavors.

Throughout our exchange, we delve into the intricacies of the publishing process, the emotional stakes of artistic collaboration, and the importance of...

Brittany Petish, an accomplished children's book author, joins us to discuss her poignant work, "Goodbye Blue," which poignantly explores themes of love and loss through the lens of her profound bond with her late dog, Annabelle.

This episode delves into Brittany's inspiring journey as she reflects on her eighteen years of experience working with the special needs community and how it has influenced her writing endeavors.

We will examine the emotional resonance of her stories and the therapeutic nature of her writing process, revealing how personal experiences have shaped her narratives.

Furthermore, Brittany...

The episode features an enlightening dialogue with Anne Goresht, the esteemed author of the children's book "I Am a Big Brother with a Superpower."

Anne, a pioneer in children's entertainment and former host of the renowned television program Romper Room, shares insights from her extensive experience in fostering empathy and understanding among children, particularly those adjusting to the arrival of a new sibling.

Our discussion delves into the inspiration behind her book, which emanated from observing the emotional dynamics between siblings.

Anne articulates the importance of acknowledging the feelings of the older child...

Episode 64

Allison Intrieri, the author of "Thatcher Hates the Bath," presents an insightful look at the trials and tribulations of parenting, particularly the struggles surrounding children's bathtime.

Drawing from her personal experiences as a mother, she delves into the unique challenges that arise when children resist necessary routines, emphasizing the importance of empathy and understanding in navigating these moments.

Throughout our discussion, we investigate the creative process behind her book, which employs humour and relatability to connect with both children and parents alike.

Allison reflects on the critical role of perspective...

Episode 63, Crafting Children's Literature: The Making of a Birthday Wish

Nikki McPhetridge has embarked upon a remarkable journey as a newly published children's book author with her work, "Maya's Birthday Wish."

This episode delves into the inspiration behind the narrative, which is tied to her daughter Maya, and explores the profound desire to create a legacy that transcends material gifts.

As we engage in a thoughtful dialogue, we unravel Nikki's motivations and the unique experiences that shaped her writing process.

Furthermore, we examine the thematic elements of her book, which emphasize...

The principal focus of this podcast episode is the successful completion of our ambitious goal to publish a weekly episode throughout the year 2025, culminating in a total of 52 episodes. We reflect upon the journey that commenced with our tentative steps into podcasting in 2024, during which we faced numerous challenges, including attracting engaging guests and establishing a dedicated audience. Our initial efforts, characterized by a modest output of ten episodes, laid the foundation for the remarkable growth we experienced in 2025, which was facilitated by the unexpected interest from accomplished children's book authors seeking to share their narratives. Furthermore, we are...

Amanda Cupido, the esteemed author of "Let's Talk Podcasting for Kids," joins us to delve into the burgeoning intersection of children's literature and the podcasting realm.

This episode illuminates the significant rise in podcast listenership among children, with nearly half of those aged six to twelve in the United States reported to have engaged with podcasts in the past month.

She cites compelling statistics indicating that nearly half of children aged 6 to 12 in the U.S. have engaged with podcasts, showcasing the medium's potential for both creativity and education.

Amanda's book serves as...

The primary focus of this podcast episode is the insightful discussion with Jake Buck, a children's book author, who shares his journey in creating his debut work titled "Bug Hug." He articulates the profound emotional significance of being a children's book authority, particularly as it pertains to the inspiration drawn from his daughter, which catalyzed his creative endeavors. Throughout the dialogue, Jake elaborates on the intricacies of the writing and illustrating process, highlighting the challenges and triumphs encountered along the way. He emphasizes the importance of consistency in character design and the personal connection that underlies his storytelling. As...

The primary focus of this podcast episode is a comprehensive discussion with Stenetta Anthony, the author of "Ella Learns to Dance," as she elucidates her journey into children's literature.

Throughout our dialogue, we delve into the significance of being a children's book author, particularly reflecting on Stenetta's extensive experience as an educator, which has profoundly influenced her storytelling approach.

We explore the challenges she faced as she transitioned from educator to author, including the intricate processes of writing, publishing, and marketing her books.

Furthermore, Stenetta shares insights into her personal motivations, the thematic...

Jeanne Dill Svobodny, an accomplished children's book author, joins us to discuss her latest literary work, "Grandma's Mystery Surprise Box."

This engaging episode delves into the journey of becoming a children’s author, particularly highlighting the evolution of Jeanne’s writing process from her first book, "Annie's Fourth of July," to her current publication.

Throughout our conversation, Jeanne shares the profound significance of her educational experiences, her dedication to fostering connections with her grandchildren, and the inspirations that guide her storytelling. We also explore the invaluable lessons she has learned about crafting compelling narratives that reso...

Shannon Turske, a newly minted children's book author, shares her inspiring journey in this episode, highlighting the release of her debut work, *Joy in the Big Balloon Catastrophe*. 

Shannon reflects on the profound significance of her role as a children's book author, emphasizing the importance of fostering resilience in young readers through engaging and narrative-driven stories. 

The conversation delves into the creative process behind her book, which was inspired by an unforgettable classroom experience during a balloon parade. Furthermore, Shannon discusses her commitment to empowering children to navigate challenges independently, reinforcing the central themes of he...

Episode 58: Unveiling the Journey of a Rescue Dog: From Texas to North of the Border

The salient point of this podcast discussion centers around Judy McGee's profound journey into children's literature, specifically through her book, "Penny Girl's Rescue."

This narrative serves not only as a tale of a rescue dog but also as a platform for advocating the emotional experiences of animals in shelters.

Throughout our dialogue, we delve into Judy's motivations, rooted in her desire to give voice to Penny. This dog inspired her writing and raised awareness about the realities faced...

Episode 56: Exploring Food Safety Through Children's Literature:

A Tasty Take 

The episode features a profound exploration of the intersection between children’s literature and food safety, as we engage with Jessica McAnelly, the author of "Birdie's Picnic: A Tasty Take on Food Safety." 

Jessica shares her journey of becoming a children's book author, spurred by a desire to impart essential lessons on food safety to young readers in a captivating and accessible manner. 

The inspiration for her book is deeply personal, rooted in her relationship with her daughter, affectionately nicknamed Birdie, and t...

Cerys Thompson, Episode 56: From Grandfather's Inspiration to Children's Book Publication: The Galloping Frog

Cerys Thompson, a recently published children's book author, shares her profound journey in creating "The Galloping Frog," a narrative imbued with personal significance and whimsical charm. 

Central to our discussion is the exploration of what it means to be a children's author, a role that Thompson embraces with both joy and humility. 

We delve into the inspiration drawn from her grandfather, whose playful character and imaginative storytelling ignited the spark for her book. She recounts her childhood experiences with her gr...

Su Murley, Episode 54: Exploring the Artistry of Children's Literature Through Tongue Twisters

The primary focus of this podcast episode is the profound journey of Su Murley, a children's book author, as she discusses her latest book, "Shirley Murley," from the beloved Shirley Murley series. 

In our conversation, we delve into the inspirations that have driven Su to write, including her desire to create relatable characters for children and the importance of inclusivity and diversity in literature. 

Su reflects upon her evolution as a writer and the significance of her experiences in engaging with yo...

The focal point of this podcast episode revolves around the life and legacy of Will Rogers, as articulated by the esteemed children’s book author and educator, Bart Taylor, affectionately known as Buckaroo Bart. 

With a profound dedication to making history accessible and engaging for children, we delve into his series of children's books that illuminate the multifaceted persona of Rogers—a celebrated comedian, movie star, cowboy, and friend to multiple presidents. 

In particular, we explore his latest work, "Will Rogers and His Great Inspirations," which aims to instill in young readers the essence of empath...