E Train Talks Books: A Literacy Initiative

I recommend “Super Jake & The King of Chaos” by Naomi Milliner to middle graders and above. We all need a little magic in our lives, and Ethan, Jake & Freddie's story shares this meaningful message and more. If you’re looking for a heartwarming read, you’ve come to the right place, and if you’re looking for an entertaining read, this book is perfect for you! You’ll find Super Jake is full...

"The Blameless" by E.S. Christison is a fast-paced & thrilling adventure that you will love! From magic to mayhem, this novel has everything a book needs to make an instant fantasy classic, and believe me, it should be a classic in my books! You need to get your hands on a copy, you won't regret it! 10/10!

No words can describe how much I enjoyed "The Verdigris Pawn" by author Alysa Wishingrad!  "Where will you let the truth take you? Beau, The heir, has lived a life of luxury & criticism. His father is the king of the land, he has the best cook, a pantry that’s always full, and everything he could ever ask for at his disposal, he is the heir to his father’s throne, but he also lives a shel...

"Fish in a Tree" educated me & inspired me to promote empathy, to walk a mile in someone else's shoes! The protagonist, Ally faces so much adversity along her learning journey, but she didn't care what anyone else thought of her, as long as she had her best friends by her side. She's a character that I'll always remember when I feel lost or need help! 10/10 story, I highly recommend getting yo...

I had the honor of interviewing, author extraordinaire, and a member of "Fedora Friends," Shawn Peters! Shawn is the author of the captivating, realistic fiction, story with a superhero twist, "The Unforgettable Logan Foster!" This book has everything that makes for a good story, from a brilliant neurodivergent protagonist, Logan, looking for his long-lost little brother, to navigating puberty, no...

It was an absolute honor to interview the one and only James Ponti! James is both a New York Times & International Bestselling author of NOT ONE, but three Middle-Grade book series, Wow! And, you might also be surprised to hear that James is also an Emmy–nominated television writer and producer who’s worked for television networks, such as Nickelodeon, Disney Channel, and PBS, to name a few! H...

Little did Nora know that being a knight is more than just defeating umbrae (evil shadow beasts), but it’s about finding your way, acceptance, friendship, and perseverance! Soon, it was time for Nora's first battle as a night. One wrong move and the deadly venom could seep into her body, but Nora's always up for a challenge! I absolutely LOVED "Secret of the Shadow Beasts" by the wonderful Diane M...

I'm so happy to be reviewing one of my favorite novels of all time, the New York Times Bestselling "City Spies, Forbidden City" by the incredible James Ponti!  James’s “Framed” series sparked my love of realistic fiction & mystery books, so when I found out James had more novels in the same genre, the "City Spies" series, I was thrilled and proceeded to devour each of the books!  Sta...

In this podcast, I review the book, “Middle School―Safety Goggles Advised: Exploring the Weird Stuff from Gossip to Grades, Cliques to Crushes, and Popularity to Peer Pressure, by Jessica Spear, author of the award-winning book "Bff or NRF? A Girls Guide to Happy Friendships." I recommend this book to all kids entering or attending middle school and to parents of middle schoolers. It’s not just a...

Check out my interview with the wonderful Heather Clark! We discuss everything "Lemon Drop Falls," her debut MG novel about 12-year-old Morgan, and her journey coping with the heartbreaking loss of her mom, and trying to keep her promise to take care of her dad and siblings while dealing with all the ins and outs of being a tween. “Lemon Drop Falls” is one of my favorite middle-grade books ever! I...

I had the pleasure of talking with the wonderfully kind-hearted Lynne Kelly, author of the award-winning and touching novel, "Song For A Whale," along with Everything Books! Lynne is a sign language interpreter, a talented author, a mom of two dogs and one human, a lover of books, and even a special education teacher in the past. She’s certainly a jack of many interesting trades, and I'm sure you'...

I had the honor of interviewing Lisa Fipps, author of the amazing debut MG Novel-In-Verse "Starfish!" Lisa was the first author to ever read one of my book reviews, and it means the world to me! Without her, I may never have started my book podcast! Join Lisa and I as we discuss journalism, creativity, and Everything Books!   #books #kidlit #author

Shared on the pages of this heartfelt tale, is a story of hope, perseverance, empathy, and strength. Listen to my review of the middle-grade novel, "Glitter Gets Everywhere," and hear why you'll want to find a copy of your own to read. It's a story that will bring out all the feels and stay with you long after the pages are read and the cover is closed. A beautiful heart-wrenching story that...

"Jordie and Joey Fell from the Sky" by Judi Lauren is a new favorite middle-grade book of mine! The novel is the fast-paced story of twins Jordie and Joey who have bounced from foster home to foster home, never finding a true place to call their own, and their entertaining journey to discovering the truth about their parents!  Join the three protagonists on a fun-filled journey full of twists...

"Consider the Octopus" is a much-needed reminder that the world needs to change for the better! Tons of pollution are dumped into the ocean daily, creating large patches where currents meet like the Great Pacific Garbage Patch. This needs to stop, and Sydney and JB, are up to the task! Listen to my book review of this silly, fast-paced, and meaningful read co-authored by Gae Polisner & Nora Ra...

In this interview, I talk with Dr. Molly Ness, a literacy advocacy champion, host of "End Book Deserts," and founder of the "Coalition for Literacy Equity!" Molly has lead the charge for literacy equity ever since her time with "Teaching America." She's witnessed firsthand the pain young avid readers face when they don't have access to books. Molly doesn't just want change, she wants to be the cha...

Elsie isn't one to mope around hoping for something to change, like Queen Esther, Elsie wants to be the change! And, I want to be like Elsie! This is my book review of Joanne Levy's newest middle-grade novel, " The Book of Elsie ." It was a treat to read and review the ARC of Levy's meaningful Jewish-themed book. The story is filled with hope and determination! It touches on sensitive and powerful...

Are you looking for a thrilling MG adventure with added queer themes and more? Well, I have the book for you! "Sir Callie and the Champions of Helston" is the perfect mix of meaning and excitement! Esme Symes-Smith did a brilliant job on their debut novel! Listen to our interview to find out more about Callie, the writing process, and EVERYTHING BOOKS!  Find out more on etraintalks.com

Meet Sammie Vance! A 13-year-old kindness advocate and fellow podcaster who started the meaningful "Sammi's Buddy Bench Project, a positive movement to promote friendship, and kindness. Sammie's been featured on the "Today Show," "NBC Nightly News" & has received many notable accolades. Through it all, Sammie shares that "You don't just have to be an adult to make a difference, you can be a ki...

I was lucky enough to receive a review copy of "Daybreak on Raven Island" by Fleur Bradley, and it did not disappoint! Fleur is truly a master at the art of captivating all forms of readers! Her novel has the perfect combination of powerful themes & powerful beasts! 10/10, I highly recommend this MG horror thriller! Be sure to get your hands on a copy when it comes out on the shelves on August...

"A much-needed reminder that certain fights are worth fighting." I had the honor of talking Everything Books with middle-grade author and activist Carrie Firestone about her two MG novels and her work as an environmental activist. Her work is so inspiring, and I learned so much from our chat! Listen to our interview to learn more about her writing, social justice advocacy, and more! Be sure to che...

"The Unforgettable Logan Foster" is the superhero middle-grade story I didn't know I needed! Author Shawn Peters has a creative and innovative way with words, adding both realistic and fictional aspects to Logan Foster's meaningful tale!  Logan is a new favorite protagonist of mine & "The Unforgettable Logan Foster" is an adventure, drama, coming-of-Age, middle Grade action packed story y...

Sometimes, the bravest thing you can ever do is ask for help. "The Bravest Word" by Kate Foster is the meaningful tale of Matt and Cliff, boy and dog. Throughout the story, the reader is pulled into the powerful adventure of Matt, and his inspiring journey! 10/10 Read! Want a copy of Kate's beautiful read for yourself? Use my affiliate link, all proceeds go to the literacy advocacy movement! https...

I had the honor of chatting everything books with Author and Artist Rebekah Lowell! In our talk, we discuss her debut MG novel-in-verse "The Road to After," her experience after escaping domestic abuse, and her work as a querying picture book artist and published author! I learned so much from our book chat, and I know you'll learn something too! Want a copy of Rebekah's Meaningful Story? Use my A...

"Sir Callie and the Champions of Helston" is the adventurous tale of Callie and their courageous friends. I loved this fast-paced novel, and I highly recommend getting your hands on a copy of Esme Symes-Smith's wonderful book! You Won't Regret It! Be sure to use my affiliate link to order a copy for yourself! All proceeds go to my literacy advocacy journey! https://amzn.to/3xdUSxX