Tales of Friendship, Faith, and Holiday Cheer

Tales of Friendship, Faith, and Holiday Cheer

Author: Jedlie Circus Productions, Inc December 23, 2025 Duration: 55:34

Join us for an inspiring episode of the Reading With Your Kids podcast, where host Jed Doherty welcomes two remarkable guests: Dr. Peter Cotton, the celebrated author of the "Fred the Snake" children's book series, and Donna VanLiere, bestselling author of "Looking for Christmas: The Search for Joy and Hope of the Nativity." This family-friendly episode is perfect for parents and kids eager to discover new children's books and traditions to bring them closer together during the holidays.

Dr. Peter Cotton shares the delightful origins and adventures of Fred the Snake, introducing young readers to exciting journeys and life lessons, from crossing the road safely to exploring the Chinese Zodiac and The Great Race. Parents and kids alike will love learning about Fred's transition from bedtime story to beloved children's character, sparking imagination and curiosity.

Next, Donna VanLiere discusses her uplifting Christmas story, encouraging families to embrace faith, patience, and kindness in today's fast-paced world. She offers heartfelt parenting tips, reflecting on how ordinary people play extraordinary roles in the Nativity. Discover how "Looking for Christmas" can help families find joy, hope, and deeper connections during the holiday season.

This episode of Reading With Your Kids is packed with storytelling magic, holiday inspiration, and practical advice for nurturing faith and togetherness. Tune in for memorable stories, meaningful lessons, and resources for parents seeking the best in children's literature and podcasts!


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
A Haunted-Looking Castle, A Broken Heart, and One Magical Summer [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 56:33
In this episode of Reading With Your Kids, Jed sits down with middle grade author Kimberly Behre Kenna to talk about her powerful new novel, Lola Gillette and the Summer of Second Chances. Kimberly introduces us to Lola,…
Why Kids Need Picture Books, Graphic Novels, and Tough Conversations [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 55:24
In this episode of Reading with Your Kids, Jed welcomes two guests who celebrate the power of stories in very different – but equally inspiring – ways. First, picture book author Linda Ravin Lodding joins from Stockholm…
Art, Ancestors, and the Stories We Share With Kids [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 58:14
In this warm and thoughtful episode of Reading With Your Kids, we're treated to two beautiful celebrations of art, family, and our relationship with the world around us. First, Jed talks with Steph Littlebird, author-ill…
What If Your Best Friend Moved Away… and Goldilocks Sued the Bears? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 55:16
On this lively episode of Reading With Your Kids, host Jed Doherty welcomes two fantastic guests who are using story to spark big conversations with kids and families. First up is Shana Tartogsz, author of the middle gra…
Teaching Empathy Through Birds & Books [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 57:31
Latin Grammy–nominated musician and debut picture book author Sonia de los Santos joins Jed to talk about birds, borders, and the magic of bilingual stories. Sonia shares the inspiration behind her new picture book La Go…
Unforgetable Stories Of Love & Survival [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 55:11
In this heartfelt and adventurous episode, Jed welcomes Jessica Collins and Lisa Malamed to celebrate their upcoming picture book Where's Big Dog: A Story of Loss and Love. Inspired by Jessica's beloved golden doodle Luc…
Your Dog Is The Best Children's Book Critic [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 57:06
Reading With Your Kids" welcomes two wonderful guests who celebrate the magic of stories, family, and imagination. First, New York Times bestselling author Tracy Wolff joins Jed to talk about her new middle grade fantasy…
Get Off The Bench & Play! [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 55:13
On this episode, I welcome Andrea Goldner, affectionately known as Nanni Andi, to talk about her picture book Nanni Andi and Our Adventure to All Friends Park and her lifelong work as a nanny. Andrea shares how, after ra…
Why Reading With Your Kids Still Matters In A  Divided World [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 55:39
In this episode, Jed welcomes third grade teacher and debut picture book author Alex Friedrichs to talk about his heartwarming new book, Sweet Rescue. Alex shares how the story was born in the most surprising way—a 4 AM…