Dream Big With Shannon Hale Graphic Novels, Fear and Big Feelings

Dream Big With Shannon Hale Graphic Novels, Fear and Big Feelings

Author: Jedlie Circus Productions, Inc September 10, 2026 Duration: 57:25

On this episode of Reading With Your Kids, we're celebrating two wonderful graphic novels—starting with a deep dive into Shannon Hale's new middle grade graphic novel Dream Big.

Joining Jed from an Airbnb in Utah, Shannon talks about the beauty and diversity of the U.S., her travels to schools and bookstores in at least 45 states, and what it's like to live life on the road with "book people." She reflects on a career of 50+ books, translated into 25 languages, and admits she hardly lets herself think about all those readers—it's too overwhelming, so she keeps her focus on the next story.

Shannon shares the heart behind Dream Big, the second book about Cassie, a highly sensitive, big-feelings kid based on Shannon's own childhood in 1980s Utah. Cassie becomes an extra in a low-budget horror movie, giving readers a realistic, often funny look at movie sets—far from the glamorous image kids may imagine. Through Cassie's worries about being "a scaredy cat," the book becomes a gentle exploration of fear, fame, and emotional intelligence. Shannon and Jed talk about different kinds of fear, why fame doesn't equal love or confidence, and how stories can open up honest family conversations about emotions and money.

In the second part of the episode, Jed welcomes David Bruggink, creator of Pia in the Forest. Inspired by sound-recording walks in the woods with his young daughter in Maine, David's debut graphic novel celebrates curiosity, nature, and the special bond between a dad and his adventurous child—perfect for families who love exploring the world together on and off the page.


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: 50

Reading With Your Kids Podcast
Podcast Episodes
Big Feelings, Pets, and Puerto Rican Flavor [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 55:16
In this warm and wide–ranging episode of Reading With Your Kids, Jed welcomes back two guest authors whose books celebrate culture, compassion, and kids with big feelings. First, Jy de la Vega returns to share her new ea…
Lowrider Culture Meets Reading Culture: Two Powerful New Projects [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 55:34
Join Jed Doherty for a heartfelt, high-energy episode featuring two creators who are all about getting kids excited to read. First, Jed chats with Laura De La Cruz, author of the picture book Lowrider for Sale. Laura int…
Drawing Our Difficulties: David Soren on Turning Pain into Characters [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 55:25
In this heartfelt episode, Jed welcomes back filmmaker and author David Soren to celebrate Visible: The Sort of True Story of a Not So Hidden Disease, the powerful follow-up to his middle grade novel Invisible. Drawing f…
If Kids Are Having Fun They're Learning [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 55:56
In this heartfelt episode of the Reading With Your Kids podcast, Jed welcomes Daria, musician, teaching artist, and author of the joyful new picture book Cicada Sing Along. Drawing on decades of performing in schools, Da…
Trees, Tales and Armadillos: Nuturing Cultural Curiosity And Courage [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 55:53
In this lively episode of the Reading With Your Kids Podcast, Jed welcomes two wonderful guests whose picture books help kids feel seen, brave, and deeply connected to the world around them. First, Jed chats with Jalpa V…
Skeletor In Therapy! And Other Ways To Hook Reluctant Readers [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 55:41
In this fun, fast-moving episode of Reading With Your Kids, we're heading to Eternia—by way of your family's favorite reading chair. Jed welcomes syndicated cartoonists Stephan Pastis and Will Henry to celebrate their hi…
Escape, Grief and Growth. How Stories Help Kids & Teens Cope [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 57:08
On this episode of Reading With Your Kids, Jed welcomes two sets of guests whose books highlight just how powerful stories can be—for thrills, for connection, and for healing. First, Jed chats with Marissa Meyer and Tama…