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
Proof That We Can Go On with Carole Lindstrom [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 38:12
Carole Lindstrom, author of Red River Rose (Bloomsbury Children's Books) and The Gift of the Great Buffalo (Bloomsbury Children's Books), illustrated by Aly McKnight, joins Matthew to talk about the truth that all things…
What Gives Mandy Settembre Hope [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 4:30
Mandy Settembre, author of Ours: A Story of Loss and Healing (Lee & Low Books), illustrated by Fran Matsumoto, shares what is giving her hope today: having a list. This is an ongoing miniseries of indefinite length in wh…
Things are Not So Linear with Matthew Cordell [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 37:59
Matthew Cordell, author and illustrator of 102 (Little, Brown Books for Young Readers), joins Matthew to talk about the power of curiosity and always wanting to see new things. Visit Matthew Cordell online at www.matthew…
What Gives Dr. Haleh Massey Hope [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 4:34
Dr. Haleh Massey, author of My Name Is Harriet Mansoor (Not Hairy Man Suit!) (Tu Books), illustrated by Rashin Kheiriyeh, shares what is giving her hope today: the ever increasing diversity in books. This is an ongoing m…
Constantly Surprising with Matthew Swanson and Robbi Behr [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 42:14
Matthew Swanson and Robbi Behr, author and illustrator of Life on the Moon (Knopf Books for Young Readers), join Matthew to talk about things so awful they can only be encountered through humor. Visit Matthew Swanson and…
What Gives Angela Quezada Padron Hope [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 4:40
Angela Quezada Padron, author of Lucía's Goals / Los Goles de Lucía (Children's Book Press), illustrated by Christina Barragan Forshay, shares what is giving her hope today: looking for hope in the little things in life,…
Protecting Our Joy with Alicia D. Williams [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 36:46
Alicia D. Williams, author of Nani and the Lion (Atheneum/Caitlyn Dlouhy Books), illustrated by Anna Cunha, joins Matthew to talk about protecting our joy through what we cultivate and what we believe. Visit Alicia D. Wi…
What Gives Matthew Cordell Hope [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 5:57
Matthew Cordell, author illustrator of 102 (Little, Brown Books for Young Readers), shares what is giving him hope today: being around a younger generation. This is an ongoing miniseries of indefinite length in which I i…
Getting Back Home with Debbi Michiko Florence [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 35:46
Debbi Michiko Florence, author of The Mastermind's Trap (Aladdin), joins Matthew to talk about finding a way to get back home. Visit Debbi Michiko Florence online at debbimichikoflorence.com Other helpful links: Debbi Mi…
What Gives Cátia Chien Hope [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 5:16
Cátia Chien, illustrator of Fireworks (Clarion Books), written by Matthew Burgess, shares what is giving her hope today: the small acts of kindness and love that we give to the world. This is an ongoing miniseries of ind…