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PODCAST

Reading in The Middle

Annisha Jeffries

Welcome to Reading in the Middle, the podcast dedicated to exploring the captivating world of middle-grade books, hosted by Annisha Jeffries, Youth Services Manager and literary enthusiast. Each episode dives into stories that inspire and entertain readers ages 8 to 12. Join Annisha as she discusses the latest and greatest in middle-grade literature, shares insights on character development, themes, and writing styles, and reads exciting excerpts to bring these books to life. Whether you"re a young

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All Episodes

00:37:43

Episode 29: Ben Guterson on Mystery, Magic, and the...

Reading in The Middle ·

2025/05/24

Today on Reading in the Middle, Annisha speaks with New York Times Bestselling author Ben Guterson, the creative force behind the acclaimed. Winterhouse Trilogy, The Einsteins of Vista Point, and the captivating World-Famous Nine series. As a former educator, Ben discusses how his teaching experience influences his storytelling, how he weaves intricate mysteries packed with puzzles and emotion, and his belief that middle-grade fiction can be both enchanting and profoundly significant.✨ In this

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00:27:42

Episode 28: Frenemies, Campfires & Cartooning with...

Reading in The Middle ·

2025/05/20

In this episode of Reading in the Middle, Annisha sits down with acclaimed cartoonist and author Liz Montague to discuss her new graphic novel, Camp Frienemies. This summer camp story is full of humor, heart, and the beautifully messy journey of tween friendship.Best known for her groundbreaking memoir Maybe an Artist, Liz shares how she crafted three unforgettable characters—Bea, Roxy, and Virginia—and how their one-week cabin experience catalyzes growth, connection, and maybe even forgiveness.We

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00:20:29

Episode 27: Waves, Words & Big Feelings: Author,...

Reading in The Middle ·

2025/05/18

What do skateboards, octopuses, and poetry have in common? In Bobbie Pyron’s newest novel-in-verse, Octopus Moon, they all play a role in one young girl’s emotional survival.In this heartfelt conversation, Bobbie Pyron — author of beloved middle-grade novels Stay, The Dogs of Winter, Lucky Strike, and more — joins host Annisha Jeffries to talk about:The real-life ocean memories that shaped Octopus MoonWriting about mental health for young readers with honesty and hopeWhy verse was the perfect voice

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00:24:05

Episode 26: Grace Lin & the Gate Between Worlds

Reading in The Middle ·

2025/05/06

Award-winning author and illustrator @Grace Lin joins Reading in the Middle to discuss her newest middle-grade novel, The Gate, the Girl, and the Dragon — a sweeping fantasy filled with Chinese folklore, stone lions, and a possibly-not-a-worm dragon.In this episode, Grace reflects on her journey from aspiring ice skater to literary icon, shares behind-the-scenes stories about illustrating her work, and explains why she believes books can be both mirrors and windows. We also chat about her early

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00:43:41

Episode 25: The Crow’s Tales: Adventures with...

Reading in The Middle ·

2025/05/06

Authors Victoria E. Pannell and Thorir Sigfusson join Reading in the Middle to discuss The Crow’s Tales, their bright and funny mystery series starring a ten-year-old boy, a loyal crew of friends, and one unforgettable crow named Ralph. From bake sales and bullies to ruby rings and remote-control car races, we explore how their books blend real-life feelings with big adventure — and why writing as a team created a voice all their own.Subscribe to Reading in the Middle and support your favorite indie

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06:24:08

Episode 24: Middle Grade in Full Color: A...

Reading in The Middle ·

2025/05/02

Rosie, a 12-year-old musical prodigy with synesthesia, perceives music in color. After enduring years of her mother’s pressure to become a concert violinist, she yearns for a respite. However, an unexpected summer spent with her grandparents and a time glitch altered her life completely. Rosie suddenly encounters her mother as a child. In this episode, author Emily Barth Isler speaks with host Annisha Jeffries about The Color of Sound, Jewish family traditions, the generational tug-of-war, and the

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00:24:31

Episode 23: Creativity, and Finding Your Voice with...

Reading in The Middle ·

2025/04/28

On today’s episode of Reading in the Middle, Newbery Medalist and Coretta Scott King Award winner Jerry Craft joins me for a lively conversation about creativity, competition, and the power of storytelling.Jerry shares the behind-the-scenes story of his new book J vs. K, a dynamic collaboration with fellow Newbery winner Kwame Alexander. This fast-paced illustrated novel follows two fifth graders—one who writes, one who draws—as they battle it out in a school-wide storytelling contest. (J vs. K hits

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00:25:22

Episode 22: Bigfoot, Bunk Beds & Big Laughs with...

Reading in The Middle ·

2025/04/21

📚 Bigfoot Is a Jerk by Julie Ditchburn Patton is a laugh-out-loud middle-grade adventure that blends summer camp chaos with cryptid-sized attitude. When new kid Zander signs up for Camp Bear Paw, he expects bug bites, bonfires, and bad cabin food—not a run-in with the most obnoxious Bigfoot in the forest. But something (or someone) is determined to make camp unforgettable, for all the wrong reasons.Packed with wild twists, quirky characters, and just the correct dose of heart, this is a hilarious

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00:55:44

Episode 21: Amulets, Bullies & Big Adventures:...

Reading in The Middle ·

2025/04/18

We’re embarking on an adventure filled with friendship and middle school chaos with Donn Swaby, the author of Corey Crumbly and the Lost Amulet! 🏫💥🌀Join us on Reading in the Middle as we discuss Corey’s thrilling quest, his comical best friend Sharod, and what it truly means to be courageous—even when panic sets in. Imagine Indiana Jones colliding with Star Wars… in the classroom.Don’t miss this enchanting and action-packed episode that demonstrates you don’t need superpowers to be a hero—only

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00:27:03

Episode 20: Foxes, Forests & Feelings: A Magical Chat...

Reading in The Middle ·

2025/04/06

Today, the incredible Aubrey Hartman, author of The Undead Fox of Deadwood Forest, joins me.In this episode, we talk about foxes and forests, bookish girls and winged lions, grief, friendship, and why fantasy stories are sometimes the best way to talk about real life.So if you’ve ever needed a little courage, comfort, or magic, this episode is for you.

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00:29:15

Episode 19: A Conversation with Padma Venkatraman

Reading in The Middle ·

2025/03/31

What do harp seals, poetry, and middle school have in common? They all collide in this heartfelt new episode with award-winning author Padma Venkatraman! We’re talking about her latest middle grade novel, Safe Harbor—a story of change, courage, and finding peace even when life feels like a storm. 🌧️☀️ Follow Geetha as she navigates a new life in Rhode Island after leaving India—facing bullies, learning a new culture, and rescuing a seal who might help her heal. 🦭In this episode, Padma and I talk:✨

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00:29:11

Episode 18: A Conversation with author Melanie...

Reading in The Middle ·

2025/03/24

In this touching episode of Reading in the Middle, Annisha talks with debut author Melanie Baldwin, inspired by her wildlife rehabilitation experiences, leading to her picture book, Penny Opossum: A Baby Animal Rescue Tale. Also joining is Illustrator Don Mason, who helped visualize Penny's journey. Together, they discuss the power of following one's instincts—whether that's a baby opossum or an author—and how a simple Facebook post sparked a story of courage, collaboration, and care for

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00:25:56

A Conversation with author Adam Rosenbaum

Reading in The Middle ·

2025/03/17

👻 On this episode of Reading in the Middle, I sit down with Adam Rosenbaum, author of The Ghost Rules, a middle-grade novel that’s eerie, heartfelt, and full of mystery. We talk about the rules of the afterlife, crafting ghost stories that resonate, and why middle-grade readers love a little bit of spooky with their storytelling.Plus, hear an exclusive clip from the book that sets the stage for our ghostly discussion! 👻Stick around. This one’s going to be un-boo-believably good. 🎧✨ 📖 Listen now

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00:25:24

Episode 16: A Conversation with Jonathan Todd

Reading in The Middle ·

2025/03/10

Hello, Readers! Welcome again to Reading in the Middle, the podcast dedicated to exploring the finest middle-grade literature and engaging in conversations with the talented creators behind these stories. I’m excited to introduce Jonathan Todd, the author and illustrator of Timid!Jonathan calls Boston, Massachusetts, home, where he lives with his wife, two kids, and their lovable lemon beagle, Cariño. And today, he’s joining us to discuss his incredible debut graphic novel.Timid is the story

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01:03:37

Episode 15: A Conversation with Dr. Jewell Parker Rhodes

Reading in The Middle ·

2025/03/05

Dr. Jewell Parker Rhodes is a New York Times bestselling author and respected educator, renowned for her engaging stories that connect with audiences of all ages. Her notable works, including Ghost Boys, Black Brother, Black Brother, and Paradise on Fire, confront crucial social topics with care and insight. In her newest novel, Will’s Race for Home, Dr. Rhodes takes readers to the 1889 Oklahoma Land Rush, exploring resilience, hope, and the quest for belonging.In addition to her writing, Dr. Rhodes

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00:31:20

Episode 14: A Conversation with Tricia Springstubb

Reading in The Middle ·

2025/02/27

Tricia Springstubb is an acclaimed author who is celebrated for her ability to convey the heart, wonder, and complexities of growing up. Her works, including Moonpenny Island, Every Single Second, and the Cody series, have garnered affection from teachers, librarians, and youthful readers alike. This time, however, we are venturing into new territory with her debut YA novel, How to Tell a True Story, set to be released on April 1st! This impactful coming-of-age narrative explores themes of truth,

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00:28:28

Episode 13: A Conversation with Emily Bowen Cohen

Reading in The Middle ·

2025/02/25

I’m excited to introduce Emily Bowen Cohen, the talented author and illustrator of the impactful graphic novel Two Tribes. This narrative follows Mia, a middle school student navigating her dual heritage—Jewish and Muscogee Creek—as she seeks to discover her true identity. It’s a story centered on identity, family, and the courage to embrace oneself. Emily, a proud Muscogee (Creek) Nation citizen, and a Jewish storyteller provides a unique and profound perspective on this narrative. We’ll delve into

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00:37:23

Episode 12: A Conversation with Tanita S. Davis

Reading in The Middle ·

2025/02/03

I’m thrilled to welcome Tanita S. Davis to the show!Tanita is an award-winning author whose books explore the complexities of friendship, identity, and family. Her novel Mare’s War earned a Coretta Scott King Honor for its powerful depiction of two teens going on a road trip with their WWII veteran grandmother, who tells them about her rebellious past. She’s also written Partly Cloudy, Serena Says, and Figure it Out Henri Weldon, each offering unique and thoughtful perspectives on growing up and

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00:36:04

Episode 11: Unsinkable Cayenne with Jessica Vitalis

Reading in The Middle ·

2025/01/31

In this Reading in the Middle episode, host Annisha Jeffries sits down with award-winning author Jessica Vitalis to discuss her latest novel-in-verse, Unsinkable Cayenne! Set in 1985 Montana, this heartfelt story follows Cayenne, a girl who’s spent her life on the move, as she navigates new friendships, family struggles, and a Titanic-themed school project that forces her to rethink everything.Jessica shares insights into her writing process, the real-life inspiration behind Unsinkable Cayenne, and

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00:29:27

Episode 10: Making Waves in Middle-Grade: A...

Reading in The Middle ·

2025/01/13

Today, I’m thrilled to bring you a conversation with the one and only Johnnie Christmas! 📚✨Johnnie is the #1 New York Times bestselling graphic novelist behind Swim Team and Gamerville. In Swim Team, we meet Bree, a middle schooler navigating life in a new town. Though she’s initially afraid of swimming, Bree discovers her courage and hidden talent, diving into the world of competitive swimming and uncovering a story of community, resilience, and self-belief. 🌊 In Gamerville, Johnnie takes us on

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