The Children's Book Podcast

The Children's Book Podcast

Author: Matthew C. Winner Language: English Episodes: 100
At The Children's Book Podcast, host Matthew C. Winner sits down with the people who make the stories we love. Each conversation pulls back the curtain on the entire journey of a book, from that first spark of an idea to the moment it lands in a reader's hands. You'll hear directly from authors and illustrators, of course, but also editors, designers, and others whose work is essential but often goes unseen. Matthew brings his perspective as a teacher, librarian, and writer to these discussions, creating a space that feels both insightful and warmly familiar. The core of this podcast is a genuine celebration of how stories shape us. It explores how the right book can mirror a child's own experience or open a window to a completely different life, building empathy and connection across generations. This isn't just about how books are made; it's about why they matter so deeply. Supported in partnership with Boyds Mills, the podcast focuses on positively impacting young readers by amplifying voices and stories that resonate. Tune in for thoughtful, engaging dialogues that will deepen your appreciation for children's literature, whether you're a parent, educator, librarian, or simply someone who believes in the magic of a well-told tale. You're invited into a community that values the craft and heart behind every page.
Episodes
What Gives Nikki Grimes Hope [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 2:59
Nikki Grimes, author of A Cup of Quiet (Bloomsbury Children's Books), shares what is giving her hope today: the bravery, resilience, and determination of young people. This is a new miniseries of indefinite length in whi…
Speech is Power with Alexandra Villasante [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 35:38
Alexandra Villasante, author of Fireblooms (Nancy Paulsen Books), joins Matthew to talk about paying for our words. Visit Alexandra Villasante online at alexandravillasante.com Other helpful links: Alexandra Villasante a…
What Gives Yuyi Morales Hope [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 5:48
Yuyi Morales, author illustrator of Little Rebels (Neal Porter Books), shares what is giving her hope today: taking care of something important to her. This is a new miniseries of indefinite length in which I invite my f…
Emotional Rollercoasters with Alison Green Myers [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 37:36
Alison Green Myers, author of This Way to Happy (Dutton Books for Young Readers), joins Matthew to talk about the inconsistent upbringings and emotional rollercoasters. Visit Alison Green Myers online at alisongreenmyers…
What Gives Alexandra Villasante Hope [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 4:10
Alexandra Villasante, author of Fireblooms (Nancy Paulsen Books), shares what is giving her hope today: stopping and looking in community. This is a new miniseries of indefinite length in which I invite my friends from t…
Strength and History with Stacy Wells [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 26:25
Stacy Wells, co-author of Stronger Than (Heartdrum), co-authored by Nikki Grimes and illustrated by E.B. Lewis, joins Matthew to talk about never giving up because those that came before us never gave up. Visit Stacy Wel…
What Gives Torrey Maldonado Hope [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 4:00
Torrey Maldonado, author of Just Right (Nancy Paulsen Books), illustrated by Teresa Martínez, shares what is giving him hope today: teaching kids how to find a just right book for them. This is a new miniseries of indefi…
Writers are Listeners with Nikki Grimes [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 32:51
Nikki Grimes, author of A Cup of Quiet (Bloomsbury Children's Books), joins Matthew to talk about creating an entryway to discussion. Visit Nikki Grimes online at nikkigrimes.com Other helpful links: Nikki Grimes at the…
What Gives Stacy Wells Hope [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 3:52
Stacy Wells, co-author of Stronger Than (Heartdrum), with co-author Nikki Grimes and illustrated by E.B. Lewis, shares what is giving her hope today: people out in the world who are doing good things. This is a new minis…
A Collective Healing with Yuyi Morales [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 37:42
Yuyi Morales, author illustrator of Little Rebels (Neal Porter Books), joins Matthew to talk about the voices of people fighting to protect our world, our rights, and our people. Visit Yuyi Morales online at yuyimorales.…