The Book Faire: Children's Literature for Grownups

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, offeri...

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 storie...

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 insigh...

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 publish...

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...

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 an...

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 paren...

Guest: https://nancyhudgins.com/ In this insightful episode, Anthony interviews Nancy Hudgins, who shares her remarkable journey from being a lawyer to becoming a celebrated children's book author. Nancy dives deep into her biography of Ursula Nordstrom, a pioneering children's book editor whose innovative vision helped shape modern children's literature. The discussion explores Nordstrom's lastin...

In this week’s episode of the Book Faire Podcast, Anthony dives into the latest new releases in children’s literature, perfect for librarians, educators, and young readers alike. We explore the growing challenges around book bans and censorship issues currently impacting schools and communities across the US. Join us as we discuss the powerful role of children's literature in shaping young minds a...

https://melaniehill.au/ Listen to Melanie on the Story Nerd Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/5VpT4dT2aev91ri2zylSv1?si=5584f2280cc244b4 Melanie Hill, author of the middle grade novel Jet Cooper, shares her journey from an Air Force career to becoming an author of children’s literature. Inspired by her aviation background, she explores themes like grief, perseverance, and the thrill of flying...

Dive deep into the world of children's literature as we explore exciting new book releases and the impactful challenges surrounding book bans affecting young readers and librarians alike. In this episode, we discuss recent legislative developments in Florida and Wyoming that influence library collections and access to diverse children's books. Stay tuned for an exclusive preview of our upcoming in...

https://www.macbarnett.com/ https://www.carsonellis.com/ Join us in this episode of The Book Faire as we delve into the art and craft of picture books in children's literature with author Mack Barnett and illustrator Carson Ellis. Together, they discuss their latest adaptation of the classic fairy tale Rumpelstiltskin, exploring how illustrated stories captivate young readers and convey important...

On this week's episode of the Book Faire Podcast, Anthony delves into the critical issues surrounding book bans and politics affecting children’s literature and education. We highlight the latest diverse children’s books and YA novels that are making waves among young readers. Tune in as we discuss a new national book banning law targeting schools and explore how local communities are mobilizing t...

This week, Anthony interviews author Maureen Devlin, who transitioned from a lawyer to a celebrated children's literature author. They discuss how her “Let’s Go Backer and Backer” series inspires curiosity, wonder, and appreciation for everyday people and things, making it a valuable resource for librarians and educators supporting young readers. Discover how her work contributes to the field of c...

In this episode of the Book Faire Podcast, Anthony explores the latest in children's literature, spotlighting new releases including indigenous debut author Christopher Roubique and a heartfelt picture book about the diverse life in a garden. We also delve into pressing education policy issues such as book bans and controversies surrounding school boards' decisions on high school reading lists. Li...

In this episode of the Book Faire Podcast, host Anthony interviews Danna Smith about her new children's book, Zenguin, which explores anxiety and coping strategies through the engaging story of a penguin seeking calm in a noisy world. They discuss the importance of children's literature in helping young readers understand and manage emotions, sharing personal experiences with anxiety that resonate...

In this episode of the Book Faire Podcast, Anthony explores the latest in middle grade and children's literature, highlighting new book releases that delve into themes of cultural identity, grief, and historical narratives. The discussion extends to the critical issues of censorship and book bans in schools, focusing on inspiring student activism and librarian efforts to combat these challenges. L...

In this episode of The Book Faire, Greg Howard delves into his latest middle grade novel, 'The Visitors,' discussing key themes relevant to kidlit such as historical trauma and LGBTQ representation. He explores the importance of empathy in storytelling and addresses the challenges faced while writing during the pandemic. Howard reflects on his inspiration for the setting and character dynamics, em...

In this episode of the Book Fair Podcast, Anthony explores the latest publishing news in young adult and middle grade literature, highlighting new kidlit releases that tackle important themes such as resilience, climate change, and personal growth. The discussion includes pressing issues faced by librarians and educators, focusing on community reactions to book banning and censorship in libraries....

In this insightful episode, Patty McGee, an experienced educator and advocate for innovative grammar instruction, shares her groundbreaking approach in her book 'Not Your Granny's Grammar.' She challenges traditional methods and offers fresh, shame-free strategies that engage young readers and students in exploring language through curiosity and collaboration. Patty's work resonates deeply with ed...

In this episode of the Book Fair Podcast, host Anthony dives into the latest publishing news, spotlighting new picture book and kidlit releases that celebrate diversity. Listeners will explore engaging middle grade and young adult literature tailored for young readers and librarians alike. The episode also tackles critical issues impacting libraries, including censorship battles, privacy concerns,...

Follow the guest on Instagram and Threads @CJVoiklis In this insightful episode, Charlotte Jones Voikilis, granddaughter of legendary author Madeline L'Engle, discusses the enduring legacy of 'A Wrinkle in Time' within the landscape of children's literature and kidlit. She delves into the challenges faced during publication, the novel's exploration of themes like alienation and agency, and the imp...

In this episode of the Book Faire Podcast, Soto dives into the latest new releases in children's literature and kidlit, exploring themes of identity, family dynamics, and cultural representation. We also cover important publishing news, including recent library legislation updates and community responses to immigration enforcement. Highlighting the crucial role of librarians and local bookstores a...

In this insightful interview focused on children's literature and kidlit, Denise Cesare, a seasoned speech language pathologist and author, shares her journey and creative process behind her poetry and children's books. Denise discusses her book "Moments in Motion with Love," written during the pandemic to address emotional disconnect in young readers, emphasizing themes of self-love, empathy, and...

In this episode of The Book Faire, we dive deep into the latest publishing news and kidlit releases that matter to young readers, librarians, and educators. Anthony introduces the new bi-weekly format, focusing this episode on recent book releases and the pressing challenges of censorship faced by schools and libraries today. Moving beyond the page, the episode addresses important current events i...