Podcast Update: Welcome Back, Katherine!
In the realm of children's literature, few authors can claim the power to stir the hearts of young readers quite like Katherine Applegate. Our latest Adventures in Learning podcast episode celebrates the release of The One and Only Family, the final installment in the cherished One and Only Ivan series. It's a poignant conversation that delves deep into the themes of fatherhood, freedom, and the intersection of imagination and reality in animal tales.
As we unfurl the tapestry of Ivan's life, Katherine warmly guides us through the final chapters of the beloved gorilla's story. The narrative brings us closer to Ivan as he faces the challenges and joys of fatherhood, with the introduction of twin gorillas to his world. Katherine's storytelling brilliance is evident as she balances the real-life inspiration drawn from the actual Ivan's life with the "what-ifs" of fiction. Her depiction of Ivan's transition into a patient father amidst tackling complex themes like freedom and climate change showcases the power of children's literature to weave intricate lessons and hope into compelling narratives.
The conversation then takes a turn towards the serious issue of book challenges. Listen as Katherine shares the recent bittersweet journey of Wishtree, a book about welcoming that faced adversity through a book challenge in Floyd County, Virginia, yet found a silver lining through the solidarity of readers and advocates. Together with Katherine, we examine the role of literature in braving the choppy seas of censorship, and celebrate the unsung heroes like PEN America, VAASL, ALA, and librarian, writer, and book ambassador John Schu, who champion the power of storytelling and the discovery of that life-altering narrative. Through this lens, we explore the vital role of literature in fostering empathy and understanding, highlighting the power of community support as a bulwark against book bans.
This episode isn't merely about the enchanting tales Katherine crafts; it's a rally cry for the freedom of expression and a testament to the stories that reflect our shared humanity. And it reminds us that we are not alone. One of the things I love about talking with Katherine is the sense of hope that illuminates even the darkest moments. If Charlotte was seeking a word to weave in her web to describe Katherine, I think that word might be transcendent.
Joy comes in the form of the Rally for Reading, recently held at Shenandoah University. What's better than hearing 400 fourth graders screaming about reading? Hearing John Schu tell the story of how Ivan entered his life and heart. As theepisode draws to a close, we're left with an empowering message: the right story can change your life. Whether it's The One and Only Family, Charlotte's Web, a graphic novel, or a treasure yet to be discovered, there's a book out there that will open the door to the world of reading, a world where one's heart can become more capacious, and one's understanding of the world can deepen.
Katherine Applegate's conversation on this episode of the Adventures in Learning is more than just a discussion about a book series—it's an exploration of the heart of literature itself. It's an episode that not only celebrates a family of gorillas but also the families of readers who come together to share in the joy and power of a good story.
Join us on this literary journey and let the adventures in learning begin. Tune in to the full episode and find yourself immersed in the world of Ivan the gorilla, where the lessons of the wild are imparted with grace and where every story holds the potential to ignite a lifelong love for reading. And check out the original interview with Katherine (see links below), where we explored her writing past, research style, hopes, dreams, and appealing to reluctant readers.
Note: EDUCATORS AND FAMILIES, check out these amazing educator resources on Katherine's website.
Listen to the full episode:
Watch the full episode (including excerpts of the Rally for Reading):
Buy the books at your local indie store (I got mine at the WInchester Book Gallery) or order them here.
Please note: I am a bookshop.org affiliate. The book links provided are for your benefit. If you choose to click and purchase, I may receive a small commission, as will your selected independent book store.
The OG Podcast and Blog
Pour yourself a cup of coffee and join me for a chat with rock star Newbery Medalist Katherine Applegate as we celebrate the book birthday of Dogtown, The One and Only Ruby, and Odder. You know her from The One and Only Ivan, but also books like Crenshaw, Wishtree, and the Animorphs series, now in a new graphic format designed by Chris Grine.
This lively conversation touches on her latest releases and teases the final book in the One and Only Ivan series, coming in 2024. We discuss animal inspirations, encouraging reluctant readers, and supporting teachers and librarians as they help kids find their own just right books.
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