Years of Frustration, One Daily Challenge Changed Everything

Years of Frustration, One Daily Challenge Changed Everything

Author: Jedlie Circus Productions, Inc February 3, 2026 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 warm, insightful conversation exploring the magic that happens when author and illustrator unite to craft memorable children's books. Julie shares the heartfelt inspiration behind her story—rooted in her own childhood and experiences as a mom dealing with the "shoe struggle"—and reveals how writing "Because of a Shoe" was both therapeutic and hilarious.

Marla dives into her creative process, describing how her love of tiny shoes and quirky childhood memories influenced her spirited illustrations. The duo discusses the joys and surprises of collaborating from opposite coasts, highlighting how trust and mutual respect allow each artist's style to shine, ultimately creating picture book magic.

Listeners will gain a unique view into the emotional storytelling that's made Fogliano and Frazee industry favorites—covering everything from the challenge of expressing big feelings in few words to finding that perfect, climactic visual twist (hello, bouncy house!).

Rounding out the episode is J E Morris, who shares the real-life tale behind "Flubby," her popular easy reader series inspired by her quirky, food-loving rescue cat. Morris talks about nurturing new readers and the joy of bringing relatable animal characters to life.

Tune in for creativity, laughs, and heartfelt insights into the world of children's literature!


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
History, Harmony & Hope [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

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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 v…
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On this episode of the Reading With Your Kids Podcast, host Jed Doherty welcomes two amazing middle grade authors who explore how stories can help kids find light, courage, and connection in a complicated world. First, J…
The Cost of Sacrifice: Parenting, Trauma, and YA Fantasy [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

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In this episode of Reading With Your Kids, host Jed Doherty welcomes Cliodhna O'Sullivan, author of the YA romantasy Her Hidden Fire, and Steph Carse, creator of the picture book I Am Awesomely Made. First, Jed chats wit…
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In this inspiring episode of Reading With Your Kids, host Jed Doherty welcomes author Celesta Rimington to talk about her powerful new middle grade novel "Reach." Centered on a boy named Denver, Reach explores the compli…
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In this inspiring episode of the Reading With Your Kids podcast, host Jed Doherty sits down with former Major League Baseball player turned artist and author Micah Johnson to talk about his powerful new middle grade nove…
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Duration: 57:43
In this heartwarming episode of Reading With Your Kids, Jed Doherty welcomes Brooklyn teacher and award-winning author Torrey Maldonado to celebrate his debut picture book "Just Right." Torrey shares the deeply personal…
Chained, Bruised, and Reading:  The Real Magic Behind Houdini [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 55:12
In this episode of Reading With Your Kids, Jed welcomes picture book author Barb Rosenstock to talk about her captivating new title, Houdini's Library. Drawing on her deep love of history and storytelling, Barb shares ho…
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Duration: 55:27
In this episode of Reading With Your Kids, we first head to 1990s New York City with Broadway actor and author Andrew Keenan-Bolger, here to celebrate his YA novel Limelight. Set in 1996, the story follows Danny, a shy S…
Alligators, Excavators & Judy the Great [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 55:54
In this lively episode of Reading With Your Kids, we're celebrating the power of picture books and biographies to turn kids into lifelong readers. First, Jed welcomes author Brooke Hartman and illustrator Michael Slack t…
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Duration: 57:31
On this episode of the Reading With Your Kids podcast, host Jed Doherty welcomes two creators whose books spark big, meaningful conversations for families. First, Jed chats with Huda Al Marashi, author of the middle grad…