Kidlit These Days

Karina and Matthew talk about the ripples from recent synagogue attacks, books that center the Jewish faith and culture, and we're reminded that we are all made of stories.

Karina and Matthew talk about the heart of the school, the disheartening trend of diminishing school libraries, and the inherent value of school libraries and school librarians in supporting a school, raising readers, and building global citizens.

Karina and Matthew talk about inclusive author visits, soft censorship, and one middle grade author's reflection on her experience speaking at a school to an audience greatly reduced in size after the host learned of the author's LGBTQ+ identity.

Karina and Matthew talk about the amazing and vibrant education community online, authors who started out as teachers teachers, and teachers we saw and loved in our favorite books.

Karina and Matthew talk about speaking to children on the danger of hate-laced speech toward Muslims, seeking understanding of hijab and the importance of hijab to some Muslim women, and the implications of a recent challenge to a public school staff dress code that would bar principals and teachers from wearing religious symbols.

Karina and Matthew talk about exploring historical artifacts up close, Karina’s visit to the National Museum of African American History and Culture, and the remarkable story behind an inscription on a clay pot from Edgefield, South Carolina, circa 1865.

Karina and Matthew talk about the border wall between Mexico and the United States, one Idaho school staff and their alarming choice of Halloween costumes, and how a group of Latinx authors stepped in with an offer few would refuse.

Meet Matthew and Karina, the hosts of our newest show all about kidlit!