Victorian Weirdness, Mobster Birds, and the Power of Comics

Victorian Weirdness, Mobster Birds, and the Power of Comics

Author: Jedlie Circus Productions, Inc January 29, 2026 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 the hit graphic novel series, The Glass Scientists. Cotugno takes listeners behind the scenes of her creative process, revealing how classic Gothic fiction, quirky 19th-century science, and a mother's passion for English literature inspired the tale of Dr. Jekyll and his band of eccentric inventors. Discover how The Glass Scientists explores themes of identity, weirdness, and self-acceptance—all while balancing thrilling adventures and laugh-out-loud moments. S.H. shares insights into the evolving art of storyboarding for animation and how crafting strong, relatable characters helps young readers connect to complex emotions.

Later in the episode, Jake Wheeler joins the conversation to introduce his middle grade graphic novel, The Gull Father, the comedic story of a crime family of seagulls. Jake and Jed discuss the magic of fostering a lifelong love of reading, the evolution of comedy in children's books, and the importance of bonding over stories as a family.

Whether you're a parent looking to inspire your child or a graphic novel fan eager for new adventures, this episode celebrates storytelling, creativity, and the wild worlds of comics. Discover new favorites, fresh perspectives, and the secrets behind the stories kids (and parents) love!


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
Hearts, Homes, and Hope [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 55:44
Join host Jed Doherty on this inspiring episode of the "Reading With Your Kids" podcast as he chats with bestselling author Jennifer Holm and passionate foster care advocate Deborah Olivia Farmer. Jennifer Holm, a three-…
Bay State Book Bash! [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 56:22
In this Best of Massachusetts special of Reading With Your Kids, host Jed Doherty spotlights remarkable creators who call the Bay State home. We begin with Peter H. Reynolds, reflecting on the enduring power of creativit…
Blooming Through Adversity [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 56:29
Welcome to another uplifting episode of Reading With Your Kids. This week, host Jed Doherty brings you inspiring conversations with two remarkable children's authors: Avasa Ebony Love, the creative mind behind "You Are a…
Lift Like a Mother, Flow Like a Yogi, Read Like a Pro [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 56:55
Looking for inspiration on positive parenting, fun family reading, and making wellness a natural part of your home? You'll love this episode! Host Jed Doherty chats with two dynamic guests: Alicia McKenzie—mom of five an…
The Blue House I Loved [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 59:03
Join host Jed Doherty for a heartwarming episode of the Reading With Your Kids podcast as he welcomes celebrated author Kao Kalia Yang and talented illustrator Jen Shen to discuss their beautiful new children's book, "Th…
Best Of 2025 - Part Two [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 59:54
Best of 2025 – Part Two celebrates the joy of stories that bring families closer, spotlighting creative voices and practical wisdom in a warm, listener-friendly mix. We open with a quick tour of themes—creativity, confid…
Best Of 2025 - Part One [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 58:49
Celebrate the year's most inspiring moments with our Best of 2025 episode of Reading With Your Kids! We're revisiting five unforgettable conversations that reminded us of the power of stories to spark empathy, courage, a…
Books, Bodyslams, and Backseat Bingo [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 56:03
If you're looking for a show that packs in suplexes and scavenger hunts in equal measure, you're going to love this episode! We kick things off in the ring—or actually, the library—with the creators behind Lucha Libros,…
The Christmas Staff [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 59:59
Get ready for holiday magic in this special episode of "Reading With Your Kids: The Christmas Staff!" Host Jed Doherty welcomes a talented team from CatholicTeenBooks.com—including authors Tony Kolenc, Corinna Turner, An…
Tales of Friendship, Faith, and Holiday Cheer [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

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 D…