Little Red, Big Fred & Smushkins: Imagination and Laughter in Children's Books

Little Red, Big Fred & Smushkins: Imagination and Laughter in Children's Books

Author: Jedlie Circus Productions, Inc December 11, 2025 Duration: 55:51

Join host Jed Doherty for a lively episode packed with creativity, laughter, and insights into the world of children's books! First, Jed welcomes author-illustrator Ashley Belote, creator of "Little Red and Big Bad Fred." Ashley shares how she reimagined the classic Little Red Riding Hood tale with hilarious twists, heartfelt moments, and her signature funny details woven through her artwork. She discusses her inspiration drawn from childhood storytelling, her love of making kids laugh, and the magic of adding humor to picture books.

Next, internationally acclaimed author and illustrator Claudia Rueda takes listeners into the whimsical world of "Meet the Smushkins." Claudia describes how play, freedom, and imagination shape her creative process, and how her vivid characters celebrate the joys of childhood. Discover how cultural influences and bilingual writing enrich her stories, and why embracing humor is so important in books for young readers.

Packed with author interviews, behind-the-scenes stories, and a sneak peek into exciting upcoming projects like Ashley's new graphic novel, this episode is a must-listen for parents, teachers, and anyone passionate about picture books. Tune in for expert tips on storytelling, illustration, and encouraging creativity in kids, all in a friendly, engaging style that makes learning fun for everyone.


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
Can AI Replace Our Memories? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 57:23
In this episode of Reading With Your Kids, we welcome author-illustrator Claire Keane to talk about her deeply personal new picture book, "Who Are You?" Claire shares how the idea began not with a character, but with a q…
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…