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Send us Fan Mail Farmer Kim Goodling turned decades of sheep farming into her debut picture book, The Littlest Shepherd — based on the true story of a fragile lamb she nursed back to health. Kim talks with host Chris Marland about writing between farm chores, why she chose physical books over e-books, and how she's promoting the launch with hand-knit hats and wool blankets from her own flock. Pre-order now, out mid-September. 🌐 grandviewfarmvt.com 📷 @vtgrandviewfarm  @kimgoodling_illustrator

Send us Fan Mail What does a quiet girl, a beach, and a herd of well-meaning elephants have in common? A story that speaks to every child who's ever felt a little shy. In this episode, Chris chats with Christine Devane, former teacher and debut author of Elephant Beach. Christine shares how her years in the classroom — and her own children's very different personalities — inspired her to write a book that validates shy kids while gently encouraging them to try something new. They talk about the book's dual message for introverts and extroverts, the vibrant illustrations Christine helped shape, her lively classroom beach parties, and two exciting upcoming books — including a touching story about grief inspired by her teaching experiences. You cna purchase your copy of Elephant Beach on Amazon.

Send us Fan Mail Not all bedtime stories are trying to do the same thing. In this episode, Chris explores the wonderful variety of picture books designed for that quiet moment before sleep — and why the "perfect" bedtime story might be different for every child, every evening. Books mentioned in this episode: Goodnight Moon — Margaret Wise BrownGoodnight Everyone — Chris HaughtonPeace at Last — Jill MurphySleep Tight, Disgusting Blob — Huw AaronThe Forest of Dreams — Meve AtilganIt's Time to Hush and Say Good Night — Chitra SoundarGood Night Already! — Jory John

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, Chris sits down with  author Katie Scorah to talk about her debut picture book, The Ship's Cat — a beautifully illustrated, rhyming adventure following Bella, a little black cat who overcomes superstition and loneliness to find her place aboard a pirate ship. Katie shares the heartwarming story behind the book — written for her three-year-old daughter and inspired by the real Bella, a black rescue cat — and explores the rich themes woven throughout: kindness, prejudice, empathy, belonging, and the importance of leading with a good heart. The Ship's Cat is available from Waterstones, Amazon, bookshop.org, and your local bookshop or library.

Send us Fan Mail Starting school can feel exciting — and a little scary too! In this episode of  Picture Book Podcast, I’m sharing five picture books that are perfect for easing first-day jitters. From stories that spark giggles to tales of quiet courage, these books are ideal for helping children (and parents) step into school with confidence. Books mentioned in this episode: The Koala Who Could by Rachel Bright & Jim FieldSchool’s First Day of School by Adam Rex & Christian RobinsonOnce Upon an Ordinary School Day by Colin McNaughton & Satoshi KitamuraFirst Day Jitters by Julie Danneberg & Judy LoveThe Pigeon Has to Go to School! by Mo WillemsIf your little one is starting school this year, these picture books can help turn butterflies into excitement — and make that first day a little brighter. 👉 Listen now, and let me know your favourite “first-day” picture book on Instagram @picturebookpodcast1 and @marlandreadingcorner or by email at [email protected]

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, Chris sits down with former teacher turned award-winning author and storyteller, Jude Lennon. From her early days in the classroom to the creation of her beloved storytelling mascot Lamby, Jude shares her inspiring journey into the world of children’s literature and beyond. Chris and Jude dive into the stories behind her popular picture books, explore the themes of kindness, mindfulness, and adventure that run through her work, and offer an exclusive peek at what’s coming next — including her upcoming titles and a return to fiction for older readers. Whether you're a fellow writer, an aspiring storyteller, or just love a good origin story, Jude's passion, warmth, and creativity will leave you feeling inspired.

Send us Fan Mail Chris chats with speech and language therapist Marie Robert to discuss bilingualism, dyslexia, phonic awareness and dyslexia.

Send us Fan Mail Happy New Year! Chris starts the year off by revealing his top 10 picture books of 2024. These books are: 1. The Dictionary Story by Oliver Jeffers & Sam Winston 2. The Search for Carmella by Chloe Savage 3. The Bridges by Tom Percival 4. The Big Bad Wolf Investigates Fairy Tales by Catherine Cawthorne 5. Grey by Laura Dockrill 6. Flower Block by Lanisha Butterfield 7. How to Hide. star by Oliver Jeffers 8. Let’s All Say Yes! By Nia Roberts  9. I Follow the Fox by Rob Biddulph 10. The Girl at the Front of the Class by Onjali Q Rauf

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, Chris reflects on a year filled with reading. From exploring picture books on the podcast to helping older children develop their reading skills in the classroom, and sharing the joy of stories with his daughter, Chris dives into the lessons learned and moments that made this year special. Join him as he celebrates the power of reading in teaching, learning, and family life.

Send us Fan Mail After being absent fo over a month, Chris is thrilled to be back with a brand new episode. In this week’s episode, Chris chats with author Mindy Burks who talks about her debut book ‘Santa’s Baby’, a story with a concept that is sure to intrigue many readers. As the title suggests, the book is about Santa’s baby daughter who learns how to live amongst the many elves in the North Pole environment and how to stay off the naughty list. Throughout the story, Santa’s baby learns how Christmas is a time where we give joy to those around us and not just expect to be given it. Mindy talks about how she came up with this unique concept and how her collaboration with illustrator Kay Dawson helped present the North Pole like you have never seen it before.

Send us Fan Mail Chris chats with author Paula Banks about her new book, ‘Dream Big: Peyton’s Hip-Hop Adventure’. The story follows Peyton, an energetic young girl with a love for hip-hop music, who discovers the courage and bravery to overcome fear and self-doubt.  Paula shares her inspiration for the book and what she hopes readers will gain from Peyton’s journey. You can purchase your own copy of ‘Dream Big: Peyton’s Hip-Hop Adventure’ https://amzn.eu/d/58lUcEY Find Paula on Instagram @authorpaulabanks (https://www.instagram.com/authorpaulabanks?igsh=bnhweTEyNzh2MmF4)

Send us Fan Mail After a being absent for a few weeks, Chris is back with a brand new episode of Picture Book Podcast. In this episode Chris talks about fairy tales and how they have evolved over time but still stay appealing to young readers. Chris particularly focuses on how fairy tales are an important part of a child’s reading progress and how both original and modern versions of these tales have morals that readers can learn from.

Send us Fan Mail Chris chats with author Sara H Fowler to discuss her debut book ‘Castle of Knots’. When a beautiful young princess is trapped within a castle of knots---a mighty fortress covered in brambles, tangled weeds, and underbrush---a brave knight, also known as Mom, must cross the Valley of Dollies and Laundry Lake to take on the impossible task of freeing the princess...just in time for school. Sara talks about how this idea came about and how she embedded themes of a fairy tale and adapted it to fit with the story of a mother helping brush her daughter’s tangled hair. She Lao talks about what inspired her to become an author and how her years of teaching helped develop her writing skills, You can purchase your copy of ‘Castle of Knots’ via Amazon: https://a.co/d/dkg4pfa You can find Sara on Instagram via this link: https://www.instagram.com/sara.h.fowler_author?igsh=dXdqZXEwZjRyczF1

Send us Fan Mail This week, Chris chats with author Jennifer Nestor to talk about her debut picture book ‘Jane Escapes to the Jungle of Individuality’.  During the chat they discuss the importance of celebrating individuality and how we all must embrace and love who we are. Chris also recommends other picture books that celebrate individuality. You can purchase a copy of ‘Jane Escapes to the Jungle of Individuality’ via Amazon.  https://a.co/d/3WCa89i You can learn more bout Jennifer by going to her website: https://www.jennestorauthor.com/

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of the *Picture Book Podcast*, host Chris Marland explores the role picture books play in promoting anti-racism and acceptance. He discusses several impactful books that address themes of diversity, unity, and empathy, highlighting how they can shape young readers' understanding of the world. Here is the complete list of all the books Chris mentions in this episode  1. Here We Are    Author:Oliver Jeffers   Illustrator: Oliver Jeffers   2. Begin Again    Author: Oliver Jeffers      *Illustrator:* Oliver Jeffers   3. People Need People       Author: Benjamin Zephaniah       Illustrator: Nila Aye   4. Let's All Say Yes     Author: Nia Roberts      Illustrator: Nia Roberts 5. The Other Side     Author: Jacqueline Woodson       Illustrator: E.B. Lewis   6. This is How We Do It: One Day in the Lives of Seven Kids from Around the World     Author: Matt Lamothe      Illustrator: Matt Lamothe   7. The Proudest Blue: A Story of Hijab and Family    Authors: Ibtihaj Muhammad and S.K. Ali      Illustrator: Hatem Aly   8. Momma, Did You Hear the News?    Author: Sanya Whittaker Gragg      Illustrator: Kim Holt   9. Come With Me     Author: Holly M. McGhee      Illustrator: Pascal Lemaître   Here’s a bit more detail about the books in case you need it for your podcast: Here We Are  by Oliver Jeffers: This book beautifully introduces young readers to the concept of our world and the people who inhabit it, emphasizing acceptance and understanding of diverse cultures. Begin Again  by Oliver Jeffers: Though not specifically about anti-racism, this book includes elements that discuss acceptance and the interconnectedness of all humans. People Need People by Benjamin Zephaniah, illustrated by Nila Aye: This book is a poetic exploration of how we rely on one another, showcasing diverse interactions across various ethnicities. Let's All Say Yes by Nia Roberts: This book focuses on accepting differences, using simple illustrations to convey that love and friendship can transcend color. The Other Side by Jacqueline Woodson, illustrated by E.B. Lewis: A story about two girls from different racial backgrounds who find friendship across a physical and metaphorical fence, promoting unity and understanding. This is How We Do It: One Day in the Lives of Seven Kids from Around the World by Matt Lamothe: This book highlights the cultural differences and similarities between children around the world, fostering an appreciation of diverse lifestyles. The Proudest Blue: A Story of Hijab and Family by Ibtihaj Muhammad and S.K. Ali, illustrated by Hatem Aly: This story portrays the strength and pride in cultural identity, emphasizing resilience against prejudice. Momma, Did You Hear the News? by Sanya Whittaker Gragg, illustrated by Kim Holt: This book addresses the challenging topic of racial bias and safety for Black children, aiming to educate young readers about real-world issues. Come With Me by Holly M. McGhee, illustrated by Pascal Lemaître: This book shows how small acts of kindness and understanding can make the world a more inclusive and compassionate place.