History, Harmony & Hope

History, Harmony & Hope

Author: Jedlie Circus Productions, Inc March 3, 2026 Duration: 55:37

On this episode of Reading With Your Kids, we're celebrating two very different – but wonderfully complementary – books for young readers.

First, Jed talks with Maria Dolores Aguila, author of the middle grade novel in verse "The Sea of Lemon Trees: The Corrido of Roberto Alvarez." Maria shares the powerful true story behind her book: the 1931 Lemon Grove incident in California, when Mexican and Mexican American children were illegally segregated into a makeshift "school" in a converted barn. Their families organized, chose Roberto Alvarez as the lead plaintiff, and won a court case that reintegrated the school – more than 20 years before Brown v. Board of Education.

Maria explains how family research led her to discover her own connection to Mexican repatriation, and why so much of this history has been forgotten. She also talks about writing the story in free verse to make it accessible, especially for reluctant readers, and describes the deeply engaged reactions she sees when she visits Title I schools in San Diego and shares this local, living history with kids.

Then Jed welcomes David McMullin, a former musical theater performer turned children's author, to talk about his joyful new board book "Rock and Roll, Baby." Inspired by the classic lullaby "Rock-a-Bye Baby," David reimagines it as a boisterous, musical romp, with each spread capturing a different music style—rock, country, punk, Latin, R&B—and a different moment in a baby's day.

David reflects on moving from Broadway to books, dealing with hundreds of rejections, and the magic that happens when parents sing, play, and read with their little ones.


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

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