Mindful, Happy Kids

Dr. Elisabeth Paige interviews YA author and literary agent Sandra Proudman about her debut YA fantasy Salvación and her work in publishing for her podcast, Mindful, Happy Kids: Embracing Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. Sandra introduces her upcoming books, including the YA dystopian "The End of Us" (out in October) and another standalone YA fantasy with Wednesday Books, "Lost and...

In this powerful episode, Sonido Reyes joins Elisabeth Paige to discuss his journey as an acclaimed author bringing vital representation to young adult literature. Sonido shares his late-blooming love for writing, sparked through fan fiction and a journey from shame to joy in self-expression. The episode delves deep into Sonido’s award-winning novels, including The Lesbiana's Guide to Catholi...

Physician and children's author Rajani LaRocca has published over 20 books for kids of all ages. In this second interview (you can also see the first interview by scrolling), we talk about her forthcoming young adult novel about grief, truth, authenticity, and friendship and her published fantasy middle grade adventure based in Indian culture on colonialism. We also spoke about two very relev...

Dr. Elisabeth Paige interviews middle grade author and English professor Chris Baron about two recent books: the Passover anthology "On All Other Nights," which he co-edited with Joshua Levy and Naomi Milliner, and his verse novel "Spark" about California wildfires. Baron discusses his preference for poetry, his writing journey into middle grade, and why certain stories choose...

Dr. Elisabeth Paige interviews middle grade author Dan Gemeinhart about his writing journey and three of his ten novels: The Remarkable Journey of Coyote Sunrise, Coyote Lost and Found, and Busted. Dan discusses why his stories include grief and death as backstory, how he balances heavy themes with humor, and why animals and friendship are central. They outline Coyote’s road-trip plot to save a bu...

Dr. Elisabeth Paige and Mike Rosenstein interview children’s author and illustrator Johnny Marciano about his career writing from board books to chapter books to middle grade books and young adult books. He’s even written  adult nonfiction. His first book was about his grandfather Ludwig Bemelmans, author of the Madeline series. Johnny discusses learning to paint in Bemelmans’ style for Madeline b...

  This is a heart-wrenching and fascinating interview with Nora Lester Murad: Activist, Educator, and Writer About Palestine. Nora is Jewish and married a Palestinian, Muslim man. Together they raised three daughters in the West Bank during the Israeli occupation.  Her middle grade novel, "Ida in the Middle" was inspired by her daughter and her own experiences living in the West Bank and...

The Petitation Companion: Enhance the Lives of You and Your Pets with Mindfulness Meditation are the adventures of Pago and Pippi, Schipperke pups trying to teach Norman, the negative cat to Petitate. I will be reading you the book, written by myself, Dr. Elisabeth Paige and Joanne Leslie chapter by chapter. I will also be adding the Petitations 1 by 1 set to music composed and recorded by Steve G...

Julio and Jacoby created Latinx awesome graphic novels focusing on immigration, border crossing, bullying, and radicalization of white supremacies. They are both interviewed in this engaging conversation with Elisabeth Paige and Mike Rosenstein. They talk about their processes, books and futures.  You can find information about Dr. Elisabeth Paige at www.mindfulhappykids.com.

In this extremely engaging and interesting conversation, Hannah talks about her book; "Homeland: My Father Dreams of Palestine;" Interlink Publishing, her family's publishing company where they publish books from Palestine and the Global South; and her role as a "queer, fat, Palestinian activist."  She identifies the historical and current plight of Palestinians both in Pa...

In our house, we start the year with a day of thanks. And, with Bobbie reaching a healthy and happy two and us in good health with meaningful jobs and podcast/writing and great people in our lives, we've got a lot to be grateful for. Bobbie and I appreciate all of you who are listening to this podcast and hope that you visit the website: www.mindfulhappykids.com to read about the authors/illu...

Dan Gutman author of over 200 children's books for all ages talks with Dr. Elisabeth Paige about his writing process, his newest book, "The Picasso Curse" (particularly relevant given the recent heist in Paris), and his many other book series. A particularly entertaining and fun conversation. You can find information about Dr. Elisabeth Paige at www.mindfulhappykids.com.

Jenan Matari wrote a powerful book about the connection of her Jiddo's to his garden and how he was forced to flee Palestine, important for Palestinians, other indigenous children, and their friends to understand. She also talks about Palestine pre and post October 7th 2023. Finally, she gives recommendations for how one can help Palestinians.  You can find information about Dr. Elisabeth Pai...

It’s the tail end of Latinx Heritage Month and we’re approaching Halloween and Los Dios de Los Noches the perfect time to highlight “Lost on Doll Island,” by Cassandra Ramos-Gomez.  In this conversation, middle grade, Mexican American, horror author Cassandra talks about her writing journey, her debut novel and her future.  The book is spooky, creepy and loads of fun. You’ll find plenty of spooky...

Taqwa Ahmed Al-Wawi is a 19-year-old journalist born and raised and currently living through the horrors of Gaza. She's written over 40 articles and 25 poems for international publications. As she says, she went from her writing being her private therapy to a "duty" to portray the struggles of her people. This powerful interview is intense, heartbreaking and can bring tears to your...

Welcome to Mindful Happy Kids! I’m Dr. Elisabeth Paige, and today we have a truly special guest—award-winning author Dana Alison Levy. In this episode, we dive into the world of banned books, explore the importance of diversity in science, and discover how hope can empower young readers. Whether you’re a parent, educator, or book lover, you won’t want to miss this inspiring conversation. Let’s get...

In our busy world, finding moments of calm can be a challenge—especially for children. But what if mindfulness could be as simple as spending time with a beloved pet in a structured way set to relaxing music? Enter the Petting Petitation, a gentle meditation practice that combines the soothing act of petting an animal with the principles of mindfulness. What Is the Petting Petitation? The Petting...

Welcome to this episode of "Mindful Happy Kids: Embracing Diversity, Equity and Inclusion," hosted by Dr. Elisabeth Paige! In this interview, Dr. Paige sits down with AnneMarie Mazotti Gouveia, a middle grade fantasy author and creator of the Drifter’s Realm trilogy. AnneMarie shares her inspiring journey from a career in Silicon Valley to becoming an author, discusses the creative proce...

Join us for an inspiring interview with acclaimed middle grade author of 15 books Barbara Dee! In this episode, Barbara shares her journey from English teacher and lawyer to full-time writer, discusses her latest book "Tear This Down," and explores the powerful themes she weaves into her stories—empowering young readers, tackling social issues, and giving voice to complex characters. We...

In this episode, we welcome Sonja Thomas, an acclaimed author renowned for her middle-grade novels featuring diverse characters and compelling stories. Sonja takes us through her literary journey from her childhood fascination with storytelling to becoming a published author. She shares the inspirations behind her celebrated books, 'Sir Fig Newton and the Science of Persistence' and &apo...

Join us as we talk with the incredible Sasha Saidman, a children's book author who brings joy, laughter, and important messages to every page. She tackles big topics like adoption, postpartum depression and neurodivergence. Listen to how her personal experiences shape her stories for kids and parents/guardians alike. You can find information about Dr. Elisabeth Paige at www.mindfulhappykids.c...

Join us as we welcome Erin Entrada Kelly, acclaimed author and Newbery Medalist, to our show. Erin dives into her multifaceted writing career, discussing her award-winning middle grade fiction, picture books, and nonfiction work. She shares her journey from writing Sweet Valley High knockoffs as a child to becoming a celebrated author. Erin talks about her forthcoming books, writing challenges, an...

Join us in this captivating episode as we chat with Muslim author and illustrator Huda Fahmy, who shares her journey from teaching English to creating beloved comics and graphic novels. Huda discusses her career beginnings, challenges faced with memoirs, and how she transitioned to writing for young adults inspired by her own life experiences. She explains the importance of representation in liter...

Kick off Mental Health Awareness Month with an insightful interview featuring Christine Webb, author of 'The Art of Insanity.' In this episode, Christine talks about her journey as a young adult author and teacher, the inspiration behind her book, which centers on a young girl dealing with bipolar disorder, and the personal experiences that shaped her writing. The conversation dives into...

In this episode, Elisabeth Paige interviews Maria Van Lieshout, a Dutch American author and illustrator whose latest graphic novel, 'Song of a Blackbird,' is critically important for today's youth. Maria delves into her personal history, growing up in Amsterdam, and how the resistance efforts in the Netherlands during WWII inspired her work. She emphasizes the pivotal role of women...