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What if your new home held the memory of a cat who came before you? In this episode of Reading in the Middle, host Annisha Jeffries welcomes acclaimed children's book author Kara LaReau to discuss her middle-grade gothic mystery, Licorice, illustrated by Kelly Murphy and inspired by Daphne du Maurier's classic novel Rebecca. The story follows Kitty, a formerly feral cat who has finally found a loving home. But her new family can't seem to forget Licorice, their beloved cat who mysteriously disappeared. As Kitty tries to find her place, strange discoveries raise an unsettling question: Is Licorice really gone? Kara discusses the inspiration behind Licorice, the challenges of writing a gothic mystery from a cat's perspective, and how she balances suspense, humor, and emotional depth. She also reflects on her career as a children's book editor at Candlewick Press and Scholastic Press, and how that experience shaped her approach to storytelling. From mysterious disappearances to the universal desire to belong, this conversation explores why gothic fiction continues to captivate young readers. Perfect for fans of middle-grade mysteries, spooky children's books, animal stories, and classic gothic literature. Join Annisha for a fascinating conversation about storytelling, imagination, and the secrets that make a mystery impossible to put down. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What happens when you bring together two legendary storytellers, decades of friendship, and a shared passion for making children laugh? You get Henry Winkler and Lin Oliver! In this special episode of Reading in the Middle, host Annisha Jeffries welcomes Emmy Award-winning actor, director, producer, and New York Times bestselling author Henry Winkler, alongside New York Times bestselling author, television producer, and children's literature trailblazer Lin Oliver. Together, Henry and Lin have created some of the most memorable characters in children's literature, including the lovable and resourceful Hank Zipzer and the mystery-solving star of their Detective Duck series. Their creative partnership is rooted in humor, imagination, friendship, and a deep understanding of what makes young readers connect with a story. The conversation explores the world of children's books, emphasizing the importance of making reading accessible and enjoyable, and highlighting the creativity that has made Henry and Lin such a beloved writing team. Henry's personal journey with dyslexia has shaped his commitment to supporting children who struggle with reading, while Lin's remarkable career in television, publishing, and children's entertainment has brought stories and laughter to generations of young audiences. Whether you grew up watching Henry Winkler as the Fonz, discovered his books through Hank Zipzer, or are meeting these two storytellers for the first time, this episode is for anyone who believes in the power of humor, imagination, and a really good book. Join Annisha for a warm and entertaining celebration of storytelling, creative partnerships, and the joy of helping children discover themselves through reading. Featured Authors: Henry Winkler and Lin Oliver Featured Books and Series: Detective Duck, Hank Zipzer, and Here's Hank Perfect For: Middle-grade readers, parents, teachers, librarians, children's book lovers, and Henry Winkler fans. #HenryWinkler #LinOliver #DetectiveDuck #HankZipzer #ReadingInTheMiddle #MiddleGradeBooks #ChildrensLiterature #DyslexiaAwareness Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What happens when the very thing that makes you different becomes your greatest strength? On this episode of Reading in the Middle, Annisha Jeffries welcomes Claribel A. Ortega, New York Times bestselling author and winner of the Pura Belpré Award and the Eisner Award, for a magical conversation about friendship, identity, belonging, and the unforgettable world of Witchlings #5. With The Sea Witch Prophecy, the fifth and final book in the beloved series, Claribel brings readers back to Ravenskill, where Seven Salazar, Valley Pepperhorn, and Thorn Laroux face extraordinary challenges, dangerous secrets, and choices that test even the strongest friendships. Annisha and Claribel explore the heart behind the magic, the importance of creating characters who reflect the beautifully diverse world we live in, and what it means to say goodbye to characters who have become such an important part of readers' lives. Full of imagination, humor, and heart, this conversation celebrates storytelling's power and reminds us that sometimes the greatest magic comes from embracing exactly who we are. Listen in for a conversation that's as enchanting as the stories themselves! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What happens when growing up means leaving someone behind, even if that someone is a ghost? This week on Reading in the Middle, Annisha Jeffries welcomes award-winning author Wendelin Van Draanen for a lively conversation about storytelling, imagination, and her novel Ghosted. Wendelin, the Edgar Award-winning author of the beloved Sammy Keyes mysteries, Flipped, and the Schneider Family Book Award-winning The Running Dream, has spent decades creating unforgettable characters. In Ghosted, she introduces Gemma and Jimmy, whose extraordinary relationship explores friendship, first love, the passage of time, and the complicated art of letting go. With warmth, humor, and a storyteller's curiosity, Wendelin reminds us that the most imaginative stories often have something deeply human at their center. Whether you've been reading her books for years or are discovering her for the first time, this conversation is for anyone who has ever wished a great story could last just a little longer. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

New York Times Bestselling author Jasmine Guillory joins Annisha Jeffries on Reading in the Middle to discuss her debut young adult novel and the excitement, uncertainty, and possibilities of growing up. Known for her beloved adult romances, Jasmine brings her signature warmth, humor, and unforgettable characters to a new generation of readers. In this conversation, we explore her journey into writing for teens, the importance of friendship and first love, and what it means to discover who you are while figuring out where you belong. Whether you're already a Jasmine Guillory fan or discovering her storytelling for the first time, this conversation is about books, growing up, and the stories that help us see ourselves a little differently. Join us for another engaging conversation on Reading in the Middle. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What happens when a little rabbit discovers that being different might just be her greatest strength? Academy Award-winning filmmaker, Pixar animator, and author Alan Barillaro returns to Reading in the Middle to talk about the next chapter in Bunns Rabbit's extraordinary journey. Best known for his Oscar-winning animated short Piper, Alan has a remarkable gift for telling stories that capture the complicated emotions of growing up. In this conversation, we explore what it means to return to a beloved character, how stories evolve in unexpected ways, and why courage, belonging, and self-discovery resonate so deeply with young readers. We also get a glimpse into Alan's creative process and the connections between animation, illustration, and children's writing. Whether you're meeting Bunns for the first time or returning for another adventure, this conversation explores imagination, finding your own voice, and the quiet power of storytelling. Reading in the Middle, hosted by Annisha Jeffries, brings you thoughtful, engaging conversations with the authors and illustrators creating books for middle-grade readers. Listen in, share with a young reader, and keep reading in the middle! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Author Zanni Louise and illustrator Susie Oh discuss Sunny Gets to Work on Reading in the Middle, exploring its themes of big ideas, determination, creativity, and adapting when plans change. They share insights on illustrating Sunny’s world, the harmony between text and images, and the inspiring message about persistence, problem-solving, and faith in one’s ideas for young readers. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

National Book Award-winning author Shifa Saltagi Safadi joins Reading in the Middle to discuss her new middle-grade novel in verse, *Sisters Alone*, as well as her book *Kareem Between*. Shifa explores themes of grief, anxiety, faith, sisterhood, and survival, emphasizing the importance of providing young readers with stories that are both honest and hopeful. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In Robin Easter’s new graphic novel, Middle School Monsters, that feeling becomes wonderfully literal. Jamie is beginning seventh grade in a new town and wants nothing more than a normal year. That means hiding her hairy legs, keeping her emotions under control, and making sure no one discovers the werewolf she believes is lurking inside her. Then Jamie meets Vee, the school’s so-called vampire. Vee already has a reputation, much of it connected to what happened with her former best friend, Kennedy. Jamie is warned to stay away, but the more time she spends with Vee, the more she recognizes another person who understands what it feels like to be judged, misunderstood, and placed outside the group. On this episode of Reading in the Middle, Robin joins me to talk about creating Jamie, Vee, and Kennedy; turning the emotions of middle school into a monster story; and showing the difference between changing yourself to fit in and finding people who accept you as you are. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A polluted industrial dumping ground. Nearly 400,000 tons of contaminated soil. And, after decades of restoration, a thriving national park. In this special episode of Reading in the Middle, Annisha Jeffries guest-hosts the Ohio Center for the Book’s Page Count podcast for a conversation with author Diane Muldrow and illustrator Amy Jindra Hodgson about their nonfiction picture book, Once a Wasteland: From Toxic Dump to National Park. The book tells the remarkable true story of the Krejci salvage yard in Northeast Ohio’s Cuyahoga River Valley. Once so contaminated that wildlife could not survive there, the land underwent an extensive environmental cleanup and was eventually restored as part of Cuyahoga Valley National Park. Diane and Amy discuss how they transformed a complex environmental history into an accessible story for young readers, researched the land’s recovery, illustrated the movement from pollution to renewal, and helped children understand that damaged environments can heal when people take responsibility and work together. Selected as Ohio’s 2026 Great Reads from Great Places title for young readers and recognized as a Junior Library Guild Gold Standard selection, Once a Wasteland is a hopeful story about conservation, community action, environmental restoration, and the power of giving the natural world a fresh start. Special thanks to Don Boozer and the Ohio Center for the Book for inviting Annisha to guest-host this meaningful conversation. Listen to discover how one of Ohio’s most contaminated landscapes became a place filled with plants, wildlife, visitors, and possibility.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

When a single garden party splits into two, everyone faces the choice of where to belong. On this episode of Reading in the Middle, Annisha Jeffries discusses with author Judith Jacques her children’s book, Gardenland: The Peas' and Carrots' Party Shake-Up, illustrated by Trevor Pacelli. The story captures Gardenland's excitement for its annual celebration, which is disrupted when Peas and Carrots decide to host separate parties. This turn of events challenges the community's tradition and prompts Betty Beet to find a solution. With ingenuity and her friends' help, she works to reunite Gardenland. Judith explains the inspiration for Gardenland, the creation of Betty Beet and her quirky friends, her collaboration with Trevor Pacelli, and how she uses humor to explore children’s real feelings: friendship, exclusion, belonging, empathy, conflict resolution, and inclusivity. She also shares her personal connection through her grandmother, Bubbie Rose, the first gardener she knew, whose influence inspired Gardenland’s world. The conversation highlights a vibrant story with a meaningful message: everyone deserves to belong. Connect with Judith Jacques: 🌱 Gardenland Books: GardenlandBooks.com Learn more about Gardenland: The Peas' and Carrots' Party Shake-Up, meet the Gardenland characters, and discover more from the series at GardenlandBooks.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What if the March sisters were hiding more than just family secrets? In this episode of Reading in the Middle, Annisha Jeffries interviews author Máire Roche about her new middle-grade novel, Little Monsters, a spooky, humorous reinterpretation of Little Women. Meg, Jo, Beth, and Amy are sisters with a very unusual secret: they are monsters. While Meg strives to protect her family and keep their secret, she also faces questions about belonging, identity, fear, and being accepted for who she really is. Máire discusses why she chose Meg as the story's focal point, how each March sister corresponds with her own monstrous alter ego, the significance of setting the story near Salem, and the enjoyment and challenges of reimagining beloved characters with supernatural elements. We also explore themes of sisterhood, family, anxiety, secrecy, and the idea that our hidden parts often define us. Additionally, Máire participates in a lively rapid-fire round about monsters, March sisters, spooky environments, and more. Little Monsters by Máire Roche is available now, perfect for fans of middle-grade fantasy, supernatural mysteries, spooky tales, family narratives, Little Women retellings, and stories about finding your place. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What if the ghost you’re searching for isn’t the only story waiting to be uncovered? In this episode of Reading in the Middle, Annisha Jeffries chats with award-winning author Tiffany D. Jackson about her new middle-grade novel, Ghost in the Night. Twelve-year-old Harmony Roundtree enjoys photography, ghost tours, and the idea that those we've lost might still linger. After her beloved grandmother's passing, Harmony travels with her father and his blues band, taking ghost tours in each city and hoping her camera will prove ghosts exist. In Savannah, Georgia, Harmony becomes entangled in a mystery where history, memory, grief, and the supernatural intertwine. Tiffany and Annisha discuss creating Harmony’s memorable voice, the emotional connection between Harmony and her grandmother, photography as a tool for memory, Savannah’s haunted history, Gullah Geechee traditions, and the role of storytellers in shaping narratives about real people and painful pasts. They also ponder one of the novel’s key questions: Who has the right to tell history, and what if the most entertaining story isn’t the factual one? This is a conversation about ghosts, grief, family, history, and discovering that sometimes what we seek isn’t quite what we expect. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What would you risk for a chance at a better future? In this episode of Reading in the Middle, host Annisha Jeffries interviews Irish author Kieran Fanning about his middle-grade science fiction novel, Ticket to Mars. They discuss the inspiration for the story, Veon Windbourne's unforgettable journey from a flooded Earth to the Martian city of Harmonia, and explore themes like justice, inequality, hope, and belonging woven into the narrative. Kieran also talks about his writing process, research on life on Mars, and why stories of courage and resilience resonate with young readers. The episode also highlights his diverse works, including the Codecrackers series, The Black Lotus, The Arrival, Irish Fairy Tales, Myths and Legends, Haunted Ireland, and Enchanted Ireland. Whether you're a middle-grade reader, teacher, librarian, parent, or sci-fi enthusiast, this discussion offers an engaging look into the mind of a creative storyteller. In this episode: The inspiration behind Ticket to MarsCreating the world of HarmoniaWriting believable middle-grade heroesScience fiction and social justiceKieran Fanning's writing processHis favorite moments from the novelA fun lightning round About Reading in the Middle Hosted by Annisha Jeffries, Reading in the Middle features thoughtful conversations with today's leading middle-grade authors, celebrating the stories that inspire young readers to think, imagine, and discover the joy of reading. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What occurs when an entire town becomes eerily perfect? In this episode of Reading in the Middle, Annisha Jeffries interviews debut middle-grade author T. C. Kemper about her haunting new mystery, The Ginghams. When twelve-year-old Joni Bird returns from summer camp, Olive Springs no longer feels like the town she knew. Her best friend May has swapped her wild curls and drums for a neat bun and believes drumming is “unladylike.” The local ice cream shop now only serves vanilla, neighbors dress alike, and a mysterious new family with unsettling smiles appears to be behind it all. The mystery centers on the Ginghams’ Thursday night book club, where members return as perfectly polished “model citizens." Determined to uncover the truth and save May and Olive Springs, Joni and Tyler start their investigation. T. C. Kemper discusses creating suspense for young readers, crafting memorable friendships, developing the strange world of Olive Springs, and examining the risks of conformity and perfectionism. She also shares her journey to publishing her debut middle-grade novel and her hopes for what readers take away from it. The Ginghams is set to release on July 28, 2026. Subscribe to Reading in the Middle, leave a review, and share this episode with a reader who loves creepy mysteries, strong friendships, and stories about the courage to be oneself. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.