Celebrating The Cozy And Creepy Sides Of Kidlit

Celebrating The Cozy And Creepy Sides Of Kidlit

Author: Jedlie Circus Productions, Inc April 24, 2026 Duration: 55:13

In this episode of Reading With Your Kids, we're celebrating both the cozy and the creepy sides of kids' lit!

First, we welcome Alyssa Satin Capucilli, creator of the beloved Biscuit series, as she celebrates 30 years of her small yellow puppy who has helped millions of children become independent readers. Alyssa shares the heartwarming real-life moment that inspired Biscuit, explains the difference between picture books and first readers, and talks about why pattern, repetition, and those famous "woof woofs" are so powerful for young readers. She also reflects on generations of kids—and now teachers—who grew up with Biscuit, and offers thoughtful advice for aspiring children's authors.

Then we shift from puppies to paranormal with Melanie Dale, author of the middle grade gothic novel Girl of Lore. Melanie introduces us to Mina Murray, her lore-obsessed heroine in small-town London, Georgia, where vampire legends might be more than just tourist bait. Melanie shares how her love of Dracula, classic horror, and even her work writing for Creepshow all fed into this spooky, funny, emotionally rich story. She also opens up about weaving mental health, friendship, and mother–daughter dynamics into the book, and suggests ways families can read and discuss it together.

Whether you're snuggling up with Biscuit or turning pages with the lights turned low, this episode celebrates the joy of reading with kids at every age and stage.


There’s a special kind of magic that happens when families share stories, try a new recipe, or simply talk about a movie they just watched together. The Reading With Your Kids Podcast, from Jedlie Circus Productions, Inc, explores that magic in every episode. While the title highlights reading, the conversations here go far beyond the pages of a book. This podcast is really about connection-the kind built through everyday moments, whether you’re cooking, creating, or discovering a new song together. Each episode brings you authentic conversations with authors, educators, and families who share practical ideas and personal stories. You’ll hear about great children’s books, sure, but also about how shared experiences with TV, movies, and music can spark meaningful family discussions. The underlying goal is always to strengthen those essential bonds. Tuning in feels like getting thoughtful, friendly advice on turning daily routines into opportunities for laughter and learning. It’s a supportive space for any parent or caregiver looking to enrich their family life, one shared story or silly kitchen experiment at a time. The tone is warm, inclusive, and focused on the simple, powerful truth that time spent together is the foundation of a strong relationship.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

Reading With Your Kids Podcast
Podcast Episodes
This Ten Year Old Invented An App That Makes Screen Time Smarter [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 55:51
In this episode of Reading With Your Kids, host Jed Doherty welcomes three very different—but equally exciting—guests who are passionate about helping kids grow smarter and braver. First, Jed chats with Adam Adler and hi…
A Nightingale, A Cello & A Risky Radio Stunt That Changed Evverything [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 55:16
Join host Jed Doherty on the Reading With Your Kids podcast for a heartwarming, history‑meets‑home episode featuring two wonderful picture book creators: Patricia Newman and Pooja Makhijani. First, Patricia introduces Be…
The Healing Garden, Helping Kids Face Cancer With Courage And Hope [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 58:43
It's been said that you spend the first forty years of your life looking forward, and the last forty looking back—from death toward your life. But what if you never get the chance to look forward? Imagine being young and…
Writing From The Parts That Hurt [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 59:00
In this episode, Jed welcomes author James Ponti to talk about Europa, book seven in his bestselling City Spies series. James shares the irresistible premise: a British secret agent known as Mother adopts kids from aroun…
Years of Frustration, One Daily Challenge Changed Everything [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 56:09
Join us for a delightful episode featuring acclaimed picture book creators Marla Frazee and Julie Fogliano as they take us behind the scenes of their newest collaboration, "Because of a Shoe." Host Jed Doherty leads a wa…
Tina Turner's Story Reimagined for Kids [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 56:39
Dive into an inspiring episode celebrating the legacy of Tina Turner, the Queen of Rock & Roll, through the eyes of debut author Ebony Lynn Mudd. In this lively conversation, host Jed Doherty welcomes Ebony as she shares…
You Won't Believe How a Tiny Mantis is Transforming Kids' Lives! [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 57:30
Dive into this inspiring episode featuring Mariana Gordon and Sondra Bakinde, the dynamic duo behind The Meditating Mantis—a captivating new children's book series designed to teach mindfulness, breathing, and emotional…
Victorian Weirdness, Mobster Birds, and the Power of Comics [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 55:37
Step into a world where mad scientists roam the foggy streets of Victorian London! In this engaging episode of Reading with Your Kids, host Jed Doherty welcomes acclaimed author and illustrator S.H. Cotugno to dive into…
How One Woman Turned Little Women Into A Murder Mystery [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 58:22
Join us for a vibrant episode packed with creativity, inspiration, and innovation! First, we welcome YA author Katie Bernet as she shares the behind-the-scenes story of her debut novel, "Beth is Dead." Katie's book deliv…