The Beginner's Guide To Wonder: Magic, Puerto Rico & Picture Books

The Beginner's Guide To Wonder: Magic, Puerto Rico & Picture Books

Author: Jedlie Circus Productions, Inc August 23, 2026 Duration: 57:49

Join host Jed Doherty for a joyful, imagination-filled episode featuring two wonderful picture book creators: Keith Negley, author-illustrator of "The Beginner's Guide to Being a Wizard," and Wanda Arlene Barajas, author of "Carina and Sabi: A Journey to the Heart of Cidra."

In the first half, Keith shares how a quirky old diary, The Journal of a Disappointed Man, inspired his hilarious new series, The Beginner's Guide. He explains how he mixes the serious "voice" of a how‑to manual with completely ridiculous wizardly details—like emergency cheese, space pie, and strict duel etiquette (no summoning Grandma… she's way too powerful!). Keith talks about testing jokes on his kids, constantly collecting ideas from everyday life, and starting his stories with strong visual images that make kids eager to turn the page. He also describes his journey from editorial illustration to children's books and the "Gandalf" mentor who gave him permission to trust his own creative instincts.

In the second half, Wanda takes listeners on a warm, heartfelt trip to Cidra, Puerto Rico through Carina and Sabi. She introduces Sabi, a magical Paloma Sabanera (an endangered pigeon found only in parts of Puerto Rico), and explains how the story celebrates nature, heritage, and the pride of growing up Puerto Rican. Wanda and Jed swap personal memories of Puerto Rico—coquí frogs, family, festivals, and food—and explore how stories can help all children, whether or not they're Puerto Rican, feel curious about other cultures while becoming more proud of their own.


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
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