8.2 Treasured Stories

8.2 Treasured Stories

Author: Shannon Betts and Mary Saghafi October 18, 2025 Duration: 57:21

In this special episode of the Reading Teachers Lounge, hosts Shannon and Mary have an engaging and insightful conversation with acclaimed children's author Kate DiCamillo about treasured stories. They explore Kate's journey as a writer, discussing the profound impact of her debut novel 'Because of Winn-Dixie,' the themes of her books, and the role of animals in her stories. Kate shares her thoughts on writing with empathy, the importance of ending stories with hope, and the joy of reading aloud. Highlights include listener questions about vocabulary development and character inspirations, and Kate's reflections on the magical connection formed between readers and stories.

RESOURCES MENTIONED DURING THE EPISODE:

  1.  Ferris by Kate DiCamillo *Amazon affiliate link
  2. Kate DiCamillo's website
  3. Contact Kate via Candlewick Press

    Kate DiCamillo
    c/o Candlewick Press
    99 Dover Street
    Somerville, MA 02144
  4. Because of Winn-Dixie by Kate DiCamillo *Amazon affiliate link
  5. The Tiger Rising by Kate DiCamillo *Amazon affiliate link
  6. The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane by Kate DiCamillo *Amazon affiliate link
  7. The Tale of Despereaux by Kate DiCamillo *Amazon affiliate link
  8. Louisiana's Way Home by Kate DiCamillo *Amazon affiliate link
  9. Facebook page for Kate DiCamillo
  10. Story resources for teachers
  11. Mercy Watson Books by Kate DiCamillo *Amazon affiliate link
  12. Flora and Ulysses by Kate DiCamillo *Amazon affiliate link
  13. Raymie Nightingale by Kate DiCamillo *Amazon affiliate link
  14. our 6.16 Delightful Word Learning episode
  15. Bookworms reading curriculum

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In the Reading Teachers Lounge, hosts Shannon Betts and Mary Saghafi pull up a chair for a conversation that feels both deeply professional and warmly familiar. These two elementary reading teachers and Atlanta neighbors discovered a shared, fervent passion for literacy over a local dinner, realizing they were kindred spirits in their mission. That initial chat never really ended, and now it forms the heart of this podcast. Each episode invites you into their ongoing dialogue, where practical classroom strategies, reflections on what works, and thoughtful discussions about reaching every single learner are all on the table. It’s a space designed for fellow educators, dedicated parents, and anyone invested in how children learn to read, offering tangible ideas rather than abstract theory. The tone is collaborative and grounded in real classroom experiences, reflecting a joint belief that literacy is foundational. By tuning in, you gain access to their collective experience and earnest curiosity, all focused on the complex, rewarding world of teaching reading. This isn't about performance; it's about sharing a genuine professional conversation from their lounge to yours, making the Reading Teachers Lounge a unique podcast for those who live and breathe language education.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 129

Reading Teachers Lounge
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