In this episode of the Book Fair podcast, I interview author and illustrator Angela Hsieh about her new book, 'Lu and Ren's Guide to Geozoology.' We discuss the creative process behind writing and illustrating a graphic novel, and the themes of expectations and growing up that resonate throughout Hsieh's work. Angela shares her inspirations from the natural world and reflects on the importance of storytelling in connecting with readers.

New Releases:

• Tales from Beyond the Rainbow: Ten LGBTQ+ Fairy Tales Proudly Reclaimed collected and adapted by Pete Jordi Wood
• Darkness at Dreamer Mountain by Ryan Wolf
• Candle Island by Laren Wolk
• The Reel Wish by Yamile Saied Méndez

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background

02:37 Exploring Themes of Family and Expectations

05:27 The Journey of Lou and Ren

08:24 Creating the World of Geozoology

11:25 The Creative Process of Author-Illustrators

14:37 Writing for a Young Audience

17:41 Future Possibilities and Closing Thoughts

31:54 New Releases

37:20 Headlines

In this episode Anthony interviews author Sharon G. Flake about her latest book, 'The Family I'm In,' which continues the story of John John, a character from her earlier work, 'The Skin I'm In.' The conversation explores themes of character development, father-son dynamics, the role of community, and the importance of adult figures in young people's lives. Flake discusses the challenges of writing relatable characters who are flawed yet capable of growth, and the impact her stories have on young readers. The episode also touches on the significance of school settings in her narratives and the evolving expectations of young men in relationships.

New Releases

• All the Noise at Once by DeAndra Davis.

• The Forgotten Summer of Seneca by Camryn Garrett

• On Again, Awkward Again by Erin Entrada Kelly and Kwame Mbalia

• Please Pay Attention by Jamie Sumner

• Storm Singer by Sarwat Chadda, illus. by Virginia Allyn

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Book Fair Podcast

01:00 Interview with Sharon G. Flake

02:36 Character Development: John John and His Journey

06:03 Father-Son Dynamics and Community Influence

09:31 The Role of Adults in Young Lives

12:09 School as a Central Theme in Storytelling

15:20 Exploring Gender Expectations and Relationships

19:34 Flaws and Growth in Young Characters

22:51 New Releases

32:21 Headlines

In this episode, Anthony interviews Kali Wallace, author of 'The Secrets of Underhill.' They discuss the book's themes, including environmental stewardship, the importance of community, and the interconnection between humans and nature. Callie shares her creative process in writing middle-grade fantasy, emphasizing the significance of wonder and excitement in children's literature. The conversation also touches on the complexities of human nature and the role of regulation in resource management, all while exploring the imaginative world of Underhill.

New Releases:

• The Cartoonists Club by Raina Telgemeier and Scott McCloud
• A Day at the Beach by Gary D. Schmidt and Ron Koertge, illus. by Yaoyao Ma Van
• Renegade Girls: A Queer Tale of Romance and Rabble-Rousing by Nora Neus, illus. by Julie Robine
• The Pecan Sheller by Lupe Ruiz-Flores

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Kali Wallace and Her Book

04:47 Exploring Themes of Environmentalism and Resource Management

11:11 The Role of Fantasy in Addressing Serious Issues

19:19 The Importance of Wonder in Middle Grade Fiction

23:11 Kalie's Perspective on Writing and Storytelling

26:57 New Releases

33:39 Sexual Assault Awareness Month

36:16 Ohio Proposed Budget Attacks Libraries

38:55 American Library Association Sues DOGE