The Big Kids Book Club Podcast: Recent Episodes
Big Kids Everywhere!
A podcast for Big Kids who like to read Middle Grade and Young Adult books. Including: Author Interviews Book Reviews New Book Releases
Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, Cat Doyle, joins us back on the show to talk about her newest book - Pirates of Darksea
I chatted with Cat about creating her own fantastical world, emotions in books, and not underestimating young readers.
Cat was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful she was able to join us again.
Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, C. G. Moore, turns up to talk about his newest Young Adult book - Trigger
I chatted with Chris about being writing in verse, the need to talk to young people about difficult subjects, as well as conversations about inspiration and the writing journey.
Chris was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful he was able to join us again.
Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, Rhian Tracey, joins us on the show to talk about her newest book - Hide and Seek.
I chatted with Rhian about historical settings and finding stories never told before.
Rhian was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful she was able to join us again.
Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, Liz Flanagan, returns to the show to talk about her newest book - The Pirate's Dragon and the relaunch of her Legends of the Sky series with UCLan Publishing.
I chatted with Liz about swapping publishers during a series, the writing of dragons in different ways, and how a good villain makes all the difference.
Liz was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful she was able to join us again.
Check out Liz's first episode with us about her book Wildsmith, on Episode 185
Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, Sam Sedgman, turns up to talk about his newest Middle Grade book - The Clockwork Conspiracy
I chatted with Sam about being using facts as foundations for narrative, plotting books with five act structures, and weaving in nerdiness into books.
Sam was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful he was able to join us again.
Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, Sufiya Ahmed, returns to talk about her newest Middle Grade book - Time Travellers: Adventure Calling
I chatted with Sufiya about being crafting a time travel book, the secrets of Parliament, and the difference between Suffragettes and Suffragists.
Sufiya was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful she was able to join us again.
If you are interested in listening to our first episode with Sufiya, then check out Episode 158.
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We're back for 2024! Hope you've missed us.
After a difficult and very busy 2023, Emma and I are back with a bang.
In this episode I'll be sharing our plans for the future and the year, along with 2 Middle Grade book reviews.
This week, we're looking at - Skandar and the Unicorn Thief, and A Darkness of Dragons.
Hope you enjoy!
Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, Triona Campbell, joins us to talk about her debut Young Adult novel, A Game of Life or Death.
I chatted with Triona about being a debut writer, the gamification of the narrative, and incorporating previous knowledge into writing.
Triona was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful she was able to join us on the show.
COMPETITION
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a copy of A Game of Life or Death head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub.
Send us a tweet using the hashtag #ShackleComp and tell us what game you'd win if your life was on the line!
(UK residents only)
The competition closes at midnight on 1st March
Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, Ian Eagleton, joins us to talk about her debut Middle-grade novel, Glitter Boy.
I chatted with Ian about writing picture books, the challenges of writing as a new parent, and promoting LGBTQ+ history and community in his books.
Ian was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful he was able to join us on the show.
COMPETITION
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a copy of Glitter Boy head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub.
Send us a tweet using the hashtag #Glittercomp and tell us your favourite music artist.
(UK residents only)
The competition closes at midnight on 24th February
Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, Colm Field, joins us to talk about her debut Middle-grade novel, Kyan Green and the Infinity Racers
I chatted with Colm about writing neurodivergent characters in books, the wonder of Edinburgh, and having books turned into TV and the reality behind it.
Colm was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful he was able to join us on the show.
COMPETITION
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a copy of Kyan Green head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub.
Send us a tweet using the hashtag #RacerComp and tell us your cool race driver knickname.
(UK residents only)
The competition closes at midnight on 22nd February
Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, Elle McNicoll, joins us to talk about her newest Middle-grade novel, Like a Curse.
I chatted with Elle about writing neurodivergent characters in books, the wonder of Edinburgh, and having books turned into TV and the reality behind it.
Elle was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful she was able to join us on the show.
COMPETITION
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a copy of Like a Curse head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub.
Send us a tweet using the hashtag #CurseComp and tell us your favorite mythic animal.
(UK residents only)
The competition closes at midnight on 17th February
Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, Naomi Gibson joins us to talk about her newest YA novel, Game Over Girl.
I chatted with Naomi about writing STEM in YA characters, creating book ideas from writing workshops, and also getting to travel thanks to her book's success.
Naomi was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful she was able to join us on the show.
COMPETITION
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a copy of Game Over Girl head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub.
Send us a tweet using the hashtag #GameOverComp and tell us your favorite Video game
(UK residents only)
The competition closes at midnight on 15th February
Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, Amy Sparkes joins us to talk about her newest Middle-Grade novel, The Bookshop at the Back of Beyond.
I chatted with Amy about starting out as picture books, then moving onto chapter and middlegrade books, about meeting characters while re-writing her ideas, and exploring writing a series one book at a time.
Amy was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful she was able to join us on the show.
COMPETITION
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a copy of The Bookshop at the Back of Beyond head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub.
Send us a tweet using the hashtag #Beyondcomp and tell us what everyday object you wish could be magic!
(UK residents only)
The competition closes at midnight on 10th February
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Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, Liz Flanagan joins us to talk about her newest Middle-Grade series: Wildsmith.
I chatted with Liz about her writing for different age ranges, blending animal conservation into fantasy, and how baby dragons are like kittens.
Liz was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful she was able to join us on the show.
COMPETITION
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a copy of Wildsmith head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub.
Send us a tweet using the hashtag #Wildsmithcomp and tell us what endangered animal you'd like to save!
(UK residents only)
The competition closes at midnight on 3rd February
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Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, Cynthia Murphy joins us to talk about her latest YA Thriller, The Midnight Game.
I chatted to Cynthia about her career as an author, keeping track of plot twists and breadcrumbs, and adding supernatural elements to her books.
Cynthia was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful she was able to join us on the show.
COMPETITION
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a copy of The Midnight Game head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub.
Send us a tweet using the hashtag #MidnightComp and tell us your greatest fear!
(UK residents only)
The competition closes at midnight on 27th January
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Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, Jennifer Claessen, joins us to talk about her Debut Middle-Grade novel, The October Witches.
Emma chatted with Jennifer about gender-bending the Merlin legend, coming up with witchy worlds, and the joys of bringing a debut novel to life.
Jennifer was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful she was able to join us on the show.
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In this episode, Carlie Sorosiak, joins us to talk about her latest Middle-Grade novel, Always Clementine.
I chatted with Carlie about animal influences in her writing, getting in the mind of our beloved animal companions, and writing a novel in letter form.
Carlie was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful she was able to join us on the show.
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Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode,M A Bennett, joins us to talk about her latest Middle-Grade novel, The Mummy's Curse.
I chatted with Marina about starting her writing career with the STAGS YA series, the differences between writing middle-grade & YA, and history research in mystery novels.
Marina was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful she was able to join us on the show.
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Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, David Ross - one half of the author team behind The Three Hares series, with Scott Lauder, joins us to talk about book 3 of the series - The Terracotta Horse.
I chatted with David about blending research with fiction to make a good story, as well as what it's like to co-write a story.
David was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful he was able to join us on the show.
Be sure to check out more Children's Fiction from Neem Tree Press on their website - https://neemtreepress.com/book-category/childrens-young-adult
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In this episode, Sam Thompson joins us to talk about his sequel to Wolfstongue - The Fox's Tower.
I chatted with Sam about his follow-up to Wolfstongue, the reception the first book received, and the details of moving the story along.
Sam was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful he was able to join us on the show.
Be sure to check out more from Sam on his website - https://samthompsonwriter.com/
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In this episode, Jodie Garnish, joins us to talk about her debut Middle-Grade novel, The Spectaculars.
I chatted with Jodie about her writing journey, from stage to stories and travels aborad.
Jodie was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful she was able to join us on the show.
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In this episode, Jessica Vitalis, joins us to talk about her latest Middle-Grade novel, The Rabbit's Gift
I chatted with Jessica about her writing journey, the art of writing craft, and blending new takes on myth.
Jessica was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful she was able to join us on the show.
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In this episode, Katy Birchall, joins us to talk about her latest Middle Grade novel, The Vampire Slayer's Survival Guide.
I chatted to Katy about her writing journey, and more.
Katy was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful she was able to join us on the show.
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Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, Deb Mercier & Ryan Jacobson, joins us to talk about their Choose Your Own Path series!
I chatted with both Deb & Ryan in this double header episode about their writing process, writing books that engage readers and more
Deb & Ryan was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful she was able to join us on the show.
Check out more from them at https://lake7creative.com/
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In this episode, Aislinn O'Loughlinn, joins us to talk about her debut Young Adult novel, Big Bad Me.
I chatted to Aislinn about her writing journey, from Ireland to Canada and back again.
Aislinn was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful she was able to join us on the show.
COMPETITION
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a copy of Big Bad Me head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub.
Send us a tweet using the hashtag #Badcomp and tell us what super you'd like to gain on a full moon?
(UK residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 17th October
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In this episode, Amy Huberman, joins us to talk about her debut middle grade novel, The Day I Got Trapped In My Brain.
I chatted to Amy about her career from actress to author, writing tough scenes, and how to get writing down in a busy home.
Amy was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful she was able to join us on the show.
COMPETITION
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a copy of The Day I Got Trapped In My Brain head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub.
Send us a tweet using the hashtag #BrainComp and tell us what would be the main attraction for your own imagination world.
(UK residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 14th October
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In this episode, Sabina Khan, joins us to talk about her latest novel, Meet me in Mumbai
Emma chatted to Sabina about her writing experiences, the link between family and fate, and more...
Sabina was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful she was able to join us on the show.
Find out more about Sabina's books here: https://sabina-khan.com/
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In this episode, Finbar Hawkins, joins us to talk about his second YA novel, Stone.
I chatted to Finbar about writing scripts then books, struggling to write pain on the page, and more.
Finbar was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful he was able to join us on the show.
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Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, Victoria Williamson, joins us to talk about her latest novel, War of the Wind
I chatted to Victoria about her always writing, how being a teacher helped her as a writer, and more.
Victoria was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful she was able to join us on the show.
COMPETITION
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a copy of War of the Wind head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub.
Send us a tweet using the hashtag #WindComp and tell us of a unique way the wind could help our day to day lives?
(UK residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 7th October
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In this episode, Anne-Marie Conway, joins us to talk about her latest novel, How to be More Hedgehog
I chatted to Anne-Marie about her inspirations as a drama teacher, how characters come from very real sources, and more.
Anne-Marie was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful she was able to join us on the show.
COMPETITION
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a copy of How to Be More Hedgehog head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub.
Send us a tweet using the hashtag #HedgehogComp and what creature you'd like to be more of?
(UK residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 5th October
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Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, Reece Carter, joins us to talk about his debut middle grade novel, The Girl, The Ghost, and the Lost Name.
I chatted to Reece about coming up with spooky stories, his love of writing from school, and not being held back when writing.
Reece was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful he was able to join us on the show.
COMPETITION
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a copy of The Girl, The Ghost, and the Lost Name head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub.
Send us a tweet using the hashtag #Ghostcomp and tell us what place you'd like to haunt.
(UK residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 3rd October
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Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, Amy McCaw, joins us to talk about her latest YA novel, Mina and the Slayers
I chatted to Amy about her love of gothic novels, New Orleans as inspiration and more.
Amy was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful she was able to join us on the show.
COMPETITION
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a copy of Mina and the Slayers head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub.
Send us a tweet using the hashtag #MinaComp and what creature of the night would you prefer to be turned into?
(UK residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 23rd September
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In this episode, Sarah Todd-Taylor, joins us to talk about her latest MG novel, Alice Eclair Spy Extraordinaire
I chatted to Sarah about her love of trains, all things spying, and more!
Sarah was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful she was able to join us on the show.
COMPETITION
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a copy of Alice Eclair Spy Extraordinaire head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub.
Send us a tweet using the hashtag #EclairComp and tell us your favourite sweet treat
(UK residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 21st September
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In this episode, James Nicol, joins us to talk about his latest middle grade novel, The Spell Tailors
I chatted to James about memory tins, how the story becomes the readers when authors are done, and more.
James was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful he was able to join us on the show.
COMPETITION
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a copy of Spell Tailors head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub.
Send us a tweet using the hashtag #Tailorscomp and tell us what magical piece of clothing you'd love to own?
(UK residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 19th September
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In this episode, Natalie C Parker, joins us to talk about her debut MG novel, The Devouring Wolf.
I chatted to Natalie about werewolf facts, setting her werewolves in Kansas, and writing MG over YA.
Natalie was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful she was able to join us on the show.
You can find more about Natalie and her books on her website: https://www.nataliecparker.com/
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In this episode, Will Taylor, joins us to talk about his newest middle novel, The Language of Seabirds.
I chatted to Will about his writing journey, writing feelings for the first time, and how much of a history nerd he is at heart.
Will was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful he was able to join us on the show.
Check out more about Chris and his books at https://www.willtaylorbooks.com/
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In this episode, Chris Whitaker, joins us to talk about his Debut young adult novel, The Forevers.
I chatted to Chris about success in writing, writing adult vs YA novels, and a whole lot more.
Chris was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful he was able to join us on the show.
Check out more about Chris and his books at https://www.chriswhitaker.com/
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In this episode, Catherine Doyle, joins us to talk about her latest MG novel, The Lost Girl King.
I chatted to Catherine about Celtic mythology, Tír na nÓg, and writing multiple books at once.
Catherine was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful she was able to join us on the show.
COMPETITION
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a copy of The Lost Girl King head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub.
Send us a tweet using the hashtag #Kingcomp and tell us who you'd cross the world to save?
(UK residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 9th September
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Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, Angharad Walker, joins us to talk about her latest novel, Once Upon a Fever.
I chatted to Angharad about writing children's fiction by accident, crafting the story through lockdown, and finally getting to see it out in the world.
Angharad was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful she was able to join us on the show.
COMPETITION
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a copy of Once Upon a Fever head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub.
Send us a tweet using the hashtag #Fevercomp and tell us if your the more level headed sibling, or the rebellious/adventurous one?
(UK residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 7th September
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In this episode, we have both Katie & Kevin Tsang, joins us to talk about their latest new book and series, Space Blasters: Suzie saves the Universe.
I chatted to Katie & Kevin about writing books together, extending their own meta-verse, and bringing STEM into the laughter of middle grade.
Katie & Kevin were amazing guests to have on the show and we are very grateful they were able to join us on the show.
In addition, apologies for the delay of this episode - work deadlines, vacation, and illness have been a problem in August.
Thanks, The BKBC Team.
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In this episode, Sufiya Mitchell, joins us to talk about her latest novel, Rosie Raja - Churchill's Spy.
I chatted to Sufiya about writing books, working for Fireman Sam, and how her daughters give her book ideas.
Sufiya was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful she was able to join us on the show.
COMPETITION
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a copy of Rosie Raja - Churchill's Spy head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub.
Send us a tweet using the hashtag #Rosiecomp and crack this code - ..-. .-. . . -.. --- --
(UK residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 26th August
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In this episode, Kita Mitchell, joins us to talk about her latest novel, Don't Tell Mum I made a Mammoth.
I chatted to Kita about writing books, working for Fireman Sam, and how her daughters give her book ideas.
Kitawas a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful she was able to join us on the show.
COMPETITION
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a copy of Don't Tell Mum I made a Mammoth head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub.
Send us a tweet using the hashtag #Mammothcomp and tell us what animal you'd like to bring back from extinction.
(UK residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 24th August
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In this episode, Louise Finch, joins us to talk about her Debut Novel, The Eternal Return of Clara Hart.
Emma chatted to Louise about tackling
Louisewas a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful she was able to join us on the show.
COMPETITION
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a copy of The Eternal Return of Clara Hart head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub.
Send us a tweet using the hashtag #Claracomp and tell us what day you'd like to live on repeat.
(UK residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 19th August
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In this episode, Janelle McCurdy, joins us to talk about her Debut Novel, Mia and the Lightcasters.
I chatted to Janelle about taking ten years to get published, Digimon, and video games influence on her writing.
Janelle was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful she was able to join us on the show.
COMPETITION
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a copy of Mia and the Lightcasters head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub.
Send us a tweet using the hashtag #Miacomp and tell us what 2 animals you'd combine to make your own unique Umbra.
(UK residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 17th August
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In this episode, David Owen, joins us to talk about his Debut Middle Grade - Alex Neptune: Dragon Thief
I chatted to David about environmental issues, seaside mythology and whether or not seagulls count as sea animals??? You decide!
David was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful he was able to join us on the show.
COMPETITION
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a copy of Alex Neptune: Dragon Thief head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub.
Send us a tweet using the hashtag #Neptunecomp and tell us what's your favourite sea creature?
(UK residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 12th August
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In this episode, Kate Foster, joins us to talk about her debut novel here in the UK, PAWS.
I chatted to Kate about writing autistic characters, the friendship between dogs and people, and the balance of being an author.
Kate was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful she was able to join us on the show.
Check out PAWS from Walker Books - Out 4th August
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In this episode, Fleur Hitchcock, joins us to talk about her latest novel, Mouseheart.
I chatted to Fleur about writing in cities she knows, blending fact and fiction, and writing mysteries from back to front.
Fleur was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful she was able to join us on the show.
COMPETITION
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a copy of Mouseheart head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub.
Send us a tweet using the hashtag #Mousecomp and tell us your favourite play or musical
(UK residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 8th August
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In this episode, Alex Cotter, joins us to talk about her latest novel, The Mermaid Call.
I chatted to Alex about writing a novel vs non-fiction, mental health in books, and the line between friend and villain.
Alex was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful she was able to join us on the show.
COMPETITION
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a copy of The Mermaid Call head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub.
Send us a tweet using the hashtag #Mermaidcomp and tell us what sort of unique mermaid you'd like to be.
(UK residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 5th August
EPISODE 150!!!!!!!
Thanks to everybody who's supported the show up to now.
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In this episode, Lauren Wolk, joins us to talk about her latest novel, My Own Lightning
I chatted to Lauren about writing writing books set in settings dear to her, getting to write full time, and finding herself doubting success.
Lauren was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful she was able to join us on the show.
My Own Lightning is out now in both the US and UK from Penguin Random House.
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In this episode, Tom Vaughan, joins us to talk about his newest book, A Gangster Stole My Trunks.
I chatted to Tom about writing more humour, the challenge of murder mysteries, and finding story ideas at a retirement home.
Tomwas a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful he was able to join us on the show.
COMPETITION
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a copy of A Gangster Stole My Trunks head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub.
Send us a tweet using the hashtag #Gangstercomp and tell us what themed cruise you'd love to go on?
(UK residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 1st August
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In this episode, Natasha Devon, joins us to talk about her debut novel, Toxic
I chatted to Natasha about writing a novel vs non-fiction, mental health in books, and the line between friend and villain.
Natasha was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful she was able to join us on the show.
COMPETITION
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a copy of Toxic head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub.
Send us a tweet using the hashtag #Toxiccomp and tag a good friend.
(UK residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 29th July
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In this episode, Sasha Laurens, joins us to talk about her latest novel, Youngblood.
I chatted to Sasha about studying Russian literature, writing characters struggling against the system, and more.
Sasha was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful she was able to join us on the show.
Find out more about the book at https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/youngblood-sasha-laurens/1140385088?ean=9780593353202
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In this episode, Cat Gray, joins us to talk about her debut novel, Spellstoppers.
I chatted to Cat about writing another book as her debut then having to write a new one, enjoying magical worlds, and feeding owls.
Cat was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful she was able to join us on the show.
COMPETITION
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a copy of Spellstopper head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub.
Send us a tweet using the hashtag #Spellcomp and tell us what magical knick-knack you'd love to help around the house
(UK residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 22nd July
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In this episode, Emma Finlayson-Palmer, joins us to talk about her debut novel, Autumn Moonbeam Dance Magic.
I chatted to Emma about positive rep in her books, how she's written for every age range, and making books Spell-tacular.
Emma was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful she was able to join us on the show.
COMPETITION
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a copy of Autumn Moonbeam Dance Magic head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub.
Send us a tweet using the hashtag #Moonbeamcomp and tell us what song always gets you on the dancefloor.
(UK residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 20th July
Hey hey hey!
Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, P J Canning, joins us to talk about his debut book, 21% Monster.
I chatted to Peter about writing as a pantser, coming up with the book concept while eating crisps, and his 10 year journey to get published.
Peter was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful he was able to join us on the show.
COMPETITION
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a copy of 21% Monster head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub.
Send us a tweet using the hashtag #Monstercomp and tell us what you'd like to be 21% of?
(UK residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 15th July
Hey hey hey!
Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, Simon Packham, joins us to talk about his latest book, Has Anyone Seen Archie Ebbs?
Out now from Firefly Press
I chatted to Simon about writing from actin, finding empathy in books, and rewriting the book multiple times.
Simon was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful he was able to join us on the show.
Hey hey hey!
Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, David Long, joins us to talk about his latest books, Spies and Tutankhamun's Treasure.
I chatted to David about writing over 60 books, how much he writes vs research, and his love of histroy.
David was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful he was able to join us on the show.
COMPETITION
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a copy of Fight Back head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub.
Send us a tweet using the hashtag #pharaohcomp and tell us what law you'd make if pharaoh for a day
(UK residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 8th July
Hey hey hey!
Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, Charley Robinson, joins us to talk about her YA Book Box subscription - Paper Orange
I chatted to Charley about her love of YA books, starting her own YA book festival and how to choose what goes into a book box subscription.
Charley was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful she was able to join us on the show.
Check out the Paper Orange YA Book Box here https://www.paperorange.uk/
Also check out Charley's Etsy shop here:
Hey hey hey!
Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, A. M. Dassu, joins us to talk about her latest novel, Fight Back.
I chatted to Az about Boy, Everywhere getting buzz, the challenges of writing book two, and getting first drafts onto the page.
Az was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful she was able to join us on the show.
COMPETITION
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a copy of Fight Back head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub.
Send us a tweet using the hashtag #Aaliyahcomp and tag friend or family who'll stand up with you against injustice.
(UK residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 1st July
Hey hey hey!
Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, Fiona Longmuir, joins us to talk about her debut novel, Looking for Emily
I chatted to Fiona about entering pitch comps on a whim, how strange clock museums inspire a writer, and possible Drop Dead Fred inspired sequels.
Fiona was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful she was able to join us on the show.
COMPETITION
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a copy of Looking for Emily head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub.
Send us a tweet using the hashtag #Emilycomp and tell us what you like to do at the seaside?
(UK residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 29th June
Hey hey hey!
Welcome back to the show. Today we've got a special episode for you! We were recently invited to come up to NYALit Fest at UCLan (Preston) for a weekend with all our favourite authors. During the weekend, UCLan Publishing - the hosts of the festival - gave us our own little room to record in, so we did what we did best and spoke to authors about their books, the festival, and more!
Come listen to our mad capped adventures here, as the second part to finish off our experience there.
Hey hey hey!
Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, Yarrow Townsend, joins us to talk about her latest novel, Map of Leaves
I chatted to Yarrow about blending experiences of nature into the book, stories from a riverboat and getting translated to German.
Yarrow was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful she was able to join us on the show.
COMPETITION
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a copy of Map of Leaves head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub.
Send us a tweet using the hashtag #LeavesComp and if you could ask a tree a question, what would you ask?
(UK residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 24th June
Hey hey hey!
Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, Diane Magras, joins us to talk about her latest novel, Secret of the Shadow Beasts.
I chatted to Diane about blending video games into fiction, how Scotland is an inspiration, and re-writing the Hobbit at bedtime.
Diane was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful she was able to join us on the show.
Check out the book here: https://www.dianemagras.com/books/secret-of-the-shadow-beasts/
Hey hey hey!
Welcome back to the show. Today we've got a special episode for you! We were recently invited to come up to NYALit Fest at UCLan (Preston) for a weekend with all our favourite authors. During the weekend, UCLan Publishing - the hosts of the festival - gave us our own little room to record in, so we did what we did best and spoke to authors about their books, the festival, and more!
Come listen to our mad capped adventures here, with a second part coming out very soon!
Hey hey hey!
Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, Keren David, joins us to talk about her latest novel, Say No to the Dress
I chatted to Keren about how writing stories for friendship, exploring Jewish heritage, and the positive message of saying YES!
Keren was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful she was able to join us on the show.
COMPETITION
If you want to be in with a chance of winning 1 of 10 copies of Say No to the Dress head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub.
Send us a tweet using the hashtag #DressComp and tell us what
(UK residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 15th June
Hey hey hey!
Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, Helena Close joins us to talk about her latest novel, Things I Know.
I chatted to Helena about how writing stories in all their messiness, bringing hope out in novels, as well as the woes of being a Munster fan.
Helena was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful she was able to join us on the show.
COMPETITION
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a copy of Things I Know head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub.
Send us a tweet using the hashtag #SaoirseComp and tag in your friends and family who support you.
(UK residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 15th June
Hey hey hey!
Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, we're live at NYA Lit Fest 2022 and talking to authors Ann Sei lin, Gabriella Houston, and Jennifer Claessen.
I chatted to Ann about how writing the influences for Rebel Skies, what it feels like to be a debut author, and the wonder of seeing fans in person.
Ann, Gabriella and Jennifer were great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful they were able to join us on the show.
COMPETITION
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a copy of Rebel Skies head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub.
Send us a tweet using the hashtag #RebelComp and tell us what Origami creature you'd bring to life with magic?
(UK residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 13th June
Hey hey hey!
Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, Katie Clapham joins us to talk about her debut novel, Three Girls.
Katie chatted to Emma about how writing the importance of friendship, writing good guys into YA, and finding the magic in every day stories.
Katie was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful she was able to join us on the show.
COMPETITION
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a copy of Three Girls head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub.
Send us a tweet using the hashtag #GirlsComp and tag in your two best friends!
(UK residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 10th June
Hey hey hey!
Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, Jason Rohan, joined us on the show to talk about his newest novel, S.T.E.A.L.T.H: Access Denied
Jason and I chatted about the working for Marvel, creating stories and then trunking them, and how influences like Thunderbirds
Jason was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful he was able to join us on the show.
COMPETITION
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a copy of S.T.E.A.L.T.H: Access Denied head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub.
Send us a tweet using the hashtag #STEALTHcomp and tell us if you'd rather be a super-hero or evil genius.
(UK residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 8th June
Hey, hey, hey!
It’s the end of the month so I’m joined by Rab (@rabtales), Emma (@EmmaKeane10) and Laura (@librarylaurapod) to talk about our monthly topic. This month is Mental Health Awareness May, where we talk about positive representation and media in the Middle Grade and Young Adult genre.
Before we start this episode, below are some links to resources that you or anybody can use to promote positive Mental Health Awareness, depending on your respective region.
UK - MentalHealth.org.uk
USA - Mental Health America - MHANational.org
Books talked about in this episode:
Things I Know by Helena Close
The Secret Garden on 81st St by Ivy Noelle Weir
Five Feet Apart by Rachael Lippincott, Mikki Daughtry, Tobias Iaconis
Reasons to Stay Alive by Matt Haig
Five Things About Ava Andrews by Margaret Dilloway
Toxic by Natasha Devon
It's Kind of a Funny Story by Ned Vizzini
Jennifer Chan Is Not Alone by Tae Keller
So sit back, relax, and get lost in a good book-ish podcast
Follow us on -
Twitter: @Bigkidsbookclub
TikTok: @BigKidsBookClubPodcast
Hey hey hey!
Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, David Valdes, joined Emma on the show to talk about his newest novel, Spin Me Right Round
David and Emma chatted about the fun of time travel, the difficulties of sexual identity in the past, and when you know an idea is a book or a play!
David was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful he was able to join us on the show.
COMPETITION
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a copy of Spin Me Right Round head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub.
Send us a tweet using the hashtag #Spincomp and tell us what one thing from the 80's you'd love to see come back into fashion.
(UK residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 3rd June
Hey hey hey!
Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, Sophie Cameron, joins us to talk about her newest Middle Grade novel, Our Sister Again.
Sophie and I chatted about how writing YA at university, tackling issues of grief, and how becoming a mother change her view on stories.
Sophie was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful she was able to join us on the show.
COMPETITION
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a copy of Our Sister Again head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub.
Send us a tweet using the hashtag #Floracomp and share a memory of a precious loved one.
(UK residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 1st June
Hey hey hey!
Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, Cath Howe, joins us to talk about her newest Middle Grade novel, The Insiders
Cath and I chatted about how teaching influences her writing, over writing like a boss, and the resilience of children.
Cath was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful she was able to join us on the show.
COMPETITION
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a copy of The Insiders head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub.
Send us a tweet using the hashtag #Insidecomp and tag in your best friend! The more the merrier!!
(UK residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 27th May
Hey hey hey!
Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, Kimberly Pauley returns to talk about her new book, The Accidental Wizard: A Peculiar Problem
Kimberly and I chatted about dungeons and dragons, fairy tales from around the British Isles, and writing 80,000 words in 3 months!
Kimberly was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful she was able to join us on the show.
COMPETITION
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a copy of The Accidental Wizard: A Peculiar Problem head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub.
Send us a tweet using the hashtag #Twigcomp and tell us your medieval knightly name!
(UK residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 25th May
Hey hey hey!
Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, Jasmine Richards returns to talk about her latest projects for Storymix and her new solo book, The Unmorrow Curse.
Jasmine and I chatted about mythologies, wearing many different hats, and the importance of finding stories that we can see ourselves in.
Jasmine was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful she was able to join us on the show.
COMPETITION
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a copy of The Unmorrow Curse head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub.
Send us a tweet using the hashtag #Fridaycomp and tell us what
(UK residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 20th May
Hey hey hey!
Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, Vashti Hardy returns to talk about her final book in the Brightstorm trilogy, Firesong.
Vashti and I chatted about completing a trilogy, the journey of writing multiple novels, and what she has planned for the world of the Wide next.
Vashti was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful she was able to join us on the show.
COMPETITION
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a copy of Firesong head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub.
Send us a tweet using the hashtag #Gaiacomp and tell us what animal would be your perfect Sapient companion.
(UK residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 18th May
Hey hey hey!
Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, Caryl Lewis, joins us to talk about her debut English middle-grade novel.
Caryl and I chatted about writing books in English, finding stories to inspire imaginations, and the wonder in dreams and wishes.
Caryl was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful she was able to join us on the show.
COMPETITION
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a copy of Seed head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub.
Send us a tweet using the hashtag #Martycomp and tell us your favourite vegetable.
(UK residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 13th May
Hey hey hey!
Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, Sue Wallman, joins us to talk about her latest novel, Such a Good Liar.
Emma chatted with Sue about the writing mysteries, incorporating social media into novels, and making YA protagonists believable.
Sue was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful she was able to join us on the show.
COMPETITION
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a copy of Such a Good Liar head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub.
Send us a tweet using the hashtag #Liarcomp and tell us your most outrageous lie! Come on make it good :D
(UK residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 11th May
Hey hey hey!
Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, Ivor Baddiel, author of Britain's Smartest Kid... on Ice!, joins us on the show!
Ivor and I talked about kids fears of being themselves, going behind the scenes of TV writing, and the love of football.
Ivor was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful he was able to join us on the show.
Enjoy!
COMPETITION
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a copy of Britain's Smartest Kid... on Ice! then head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub. Send us a tweet using the hashtag #Icecomp and tell us your show stopping talent!
(UK residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 6th May
Hey hey hey!
Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
Let's re-join Emma and Christine PIllainayagam as they talk about her latest novel, Ellie Pillai Is Brown
Emma and Christine chatted about writing stories for her younger self, the importance of music behind novels, and getting opportunities to live out dreams.
Christine was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful she was able to join us on the show.
This is part two for the episode - if you haven't listened to Part 1, then listen to it first.
Hey hey hey!
Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, Christine PIllainayagam, joins Emma to talk about her latest novel, Ellie Pillai Is Brown
Emma and Christine chatted about writing stories for her younger self, the importance of music behind novels, and getting opportunities to live out dreams.
Christine was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful she was able to join us on the show.
This is part one of two for the episode - the next half will be coming out this Friday 22nd April. So keep an eye out for it.
Hey hey hey!
Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, Mary Watson, joins Emma to talk about her latest novel, Blood to Poison.
Emma and Mary chatted about writing stories about her native South Africa, spinning tales of magic and weaving narratives that tackle hard hitting topics.
Mary was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful she was able to join us on the show.
Hey hey hey!
Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, Gina Blaxill, joins us to talk about her latest novel, You Can Trust Me.
Gina and I chatted about the difficulties of a writing journey, finding the right place to start your novel, and tricky first chapters.
Gina was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful she was able to join us on the show.
COMPETITION
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a copy of you Can Trust Me head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub.
Send us a tweet using the hashtag #Trustcomp and tag your best friend.
(UK residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 15th April
Hey hey hey!
Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, Jane Mitchell, joins us to talk about her latest novel, Run for Your Life
Jane and I chatted about the Direct Provision in Ireland, running writing workshops for refugees, and writing books to highlight issues.
Jane was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful she was able to join us on the show.
COMPETITION
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a copy of Run For Your Life head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub.
Send us a tweet using the hashtag #Azaricomp and tell us a made-up event at the Olympics you'd win gold in.
(UK residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 13th April
Hey, hey, hey!
It’s the end of the month so I’m joined by Rab (@rabtales) and Laura (@librarylaurapod) to talk about our monthly topic. This month is Mystery March, where we talk mystery, thrillers, and detective novels in the Middle Grade and Young Adult genre.
Books talked about in this episode:
Murder Most Unladylike by Robin Stevens
Agatha Oddly by Lena Jones
Winterhouse by Ben Guterson
So sit back, relax, and get lost in a good book-ish podcast
Follow us on Twitter: @Bigkidsbookclub
Hey hey hey!
Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, Anne Cassidy, joins us to talk about her latest novel, The Drowning Day.
Anne and I chatted about writing for middle grade, the writing of up to date issues, and the creation of characters.
Anne was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful she was able to join us on the show.
COMPETITION
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a copy of The Drowning Day head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub.
Send us a tweet using the hashtag #Cassidycomp and tell us what treasure you'd like to find deep sea diving.
(UK residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 8th April
Hey hey hey!
Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, Alastair Chisholm, returns to the show to talk about her latest series, the Dragon Storm Series.
Alastair and I chatted about writing in picture books and middle grade, writing a series, and all the details that go into it.
Alastair was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful he was able to join us on the show.
COMPETITION
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a copy of the first two books in the Dragon Storm head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub.
Send us a tweet using the hashtag #Dragoncomp and tell us what name and powers your dragon might have? (UK residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 6th April
Hey hey hey!
Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, Hannah Peck, returns to the show to talk about her latest novel, Kate on the Case: The Call of the Silver Wibbler
Hannah and I chatted about the challenge of writing and illustrator, writing songs in books, and linking mysteries and friendship.
Hannah was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful she was able to join us on the show.
COMPETITION
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a copy of Kate on the Case: The Call of the Silver Wibbler head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub.
Send us a tweet using the hashtag #custardcomp and tell us your favourite bird.
(UK residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 1st April
Welcome back for another Mid-Week review, a book review in the middle of the week (it's kind of obvious by the title haha). Let's take a look at this week's book!
This week's review is:
Lockwood & Co: The Screaming Staircase by Johnathan Stroud
Publisher: Penguin Random House Children's UK
Age Range: 12+
Genre(s): Supernatural, Mystery
Page Count: 480
Star Rating: 4⭐ (out of 5)
Plot: 4 / Pacing: 4 / Characters: 5 / Style: 4 / Setting:3
Hey hey hey!
Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, Lindsay Littleson, joins us to talk about her latest novel, The Rewilders.
Lindsay and I chatted about tackling the rewilding efforts in Scotland, creating characters true to the students she used to teach, and her love of Lynx's.
Lindsay was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful she was able to join us on the show.
COMPETITION
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a copy of The Rewilders head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub.
Send us a tweet using the hashtag #Wildcomp and tell us what animal you'd like to see reintroduce to the UK.
(UK residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 28th March
Hey hey hey!
Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, Aneesa Marufu, joins us to talk about her debut novel, The Balloon Thief
Aneesa and I chatted about fascinations with hot air balloons, writing a story of adventure while tackling issues, and using university degrees in unexpected ways.
Aneesa was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful she was able to join us on the show.
COMPETITION
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a copy of The Balloon Thief head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub.
Send us a tweet using the hashtag #Ballooncomp and tell us you where in the world you'd like to escape in a hot air balloon to?
(UK residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 25th March
Hey hey hey!
Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, Bethany Walker, joins us to talk about her latest book How to Steal the Mona Lisa.
Beth and I chatted about not stealing art, writing picture books and moving onto bigger books, and writing witty stories.
Beth was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful she was able to join us on the show.
COMPETITION
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a copy of How to Steal the Mona Lisa head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub.
Send us a tweet using the hashtag #MonaLisacomp and tell us your Secret Art Thief name.
(UK residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 23rd March
Hey hey hey!
Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, Morgan Owen, joins us to talk about her debut novel, The Girl with No Soul.
Morgan and I chatted about taking 12 years to get her book out, building worlds before characters, and the highs and lows of being on debut.
Morgan was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful she was able to join us on the show.
COMPETITION
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a copy of The Girl With No Soul head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub.
Send us a tweet using the hashtag #Soulcomp and tell us your sneaky Victorian pickpocket name?
(UK residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 18th March
Hey hey hey!
Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, Karen McCombie, joins us to talk about her latest book Fagin's Girl.
Karen and I chatted about what her research in bringing history to life, and reaching almost 100 books.
Karen was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful she was able to join us on the show.
COMPETITION
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a copy of Fagin's Girl head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub.
Send us a tweet using the hashtag #Fagincomp and tell us your sneaky Victorian pickpocket name?
(UK residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 16th March
Hey, hey, hey!
It’s a new month so I’m joined by Emma for a review of February books and we talk about books that we fell in love with.
So sit back, relax, and get lost in a good book-ish podcast
Follow us on Twitter: @Bigkidsbookclub
Find our website: bigkidsbookclub.com
Hey hey hey!
Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, Emma takes the reins and chats with Catherine Wilkins about her new book, You're Not the Boss of Me!
Emma and Catherine chatted about writing about the strong themes of sexism in children's books, how being a comedian helps writing witty characters, and what Catherine's favourite sketch was to write.
Catherine was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful she was able to join us on the show.
Check out You're Not the Boss of Me! - out now from Nosy Crow
https://nosycrow.com/product/youre-not-the-boss-of-me/
Hey hey hey!
Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, Tamsin Mori, joins us to talk about her latest book in the Weather Weaver series, A Gathering Storm
Tamsin and I chatted about what her first year as a debut author went, the challenges of writing book to, and changes to the original plot.
Tamsin was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful she was able to join us on the show.
COMPETITION
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a copy of A Gathering Storm head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub.
Send us a tweet using the hashtag #Stormcomp and tell us what colours you'd change the clouds to?
(UK residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 9th March
Hey hey hey!
Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, Jamar J Perry, author of debut Cameron Battle and the Hidden Kingdoms, joins us on the show!
Jamar and I talked about loneliness growing up, finding a book for the boys he taught, and finding himself in the pages.
Jamar was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful he was able to join us on the show.
Enjoy!
COMPETITION
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a copy of Cameron Battle then head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub. Send us a tweet using the hashtag #Chidanicomp and tell us what you'd name your own magical griffon.
(UK residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 4th March
Welcome back for another Mid-Week review, a book review in the middle of the week (it's kind of obvious by the title haha). Let's take a look at this week's book!
This week's review is:
The Hatmakers by Tamzin Merchant
Publisher: Penguin Random House Children's UK
Age Range: 8+
Genre(s): Middle Grade, Mystery, Adventure
Page Count: 384
Star Rating: 4.2⭐ (out of 5)
Plot: 4 / Pacing: 4 / Characters: 4 / Style: 4 / Setting: 5
Hey hey hey!
Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, Vicky Woodgate, joins us to talk about her new book the Magic of Seasons
Vicky and I chatted about turning illustrator to author, working hard to plan the book from start to finish, and cats adopting Spanish street cats.
Vicky was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful she was able to join us on the show.
COMPETITION
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a copy of Magic of Seasons head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub.
Send us a tweet using the hashtag #Seasoncomp and tell us your favourite season
(UK residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 25th February.
Hey, hey, hey!
We’re coming to you with a brand new content – the Book Bite, a quick-fire, rapid round up of all the top releases in Middle Grade and Young Adult each month.
We’ll tell you what books have caught our eyes, and shot up to the top of our TBR’s as well as the TV & Film adaptations that have us all excited!
We now go live to our reporter in between the pages – Emma Keane.
This months mentioned books:
MIDDLE GRADE
- Wishing Upon the Same Star – Jacquetta Nammar Feldman (Harper Collins – 1st Feb)
- Cameron Battle and the Hidden Kingdoms – Jamar J Perry (Bloomsbury- 1st Feb US/AUS/NZ)
- The View from the Very Best House in Town – Meera Trehan (Walker Books – 8th Feb)
YOUNG ADULT
- The Woven Kingdom – Tahereh Mafi (Harper Collins – 1st Feb)
- Golden Boys – Phil Stamper (Bloomsbury- 8th Feb)
- Horror Hotel – Victoria Fulton & Faith McClaren (Underlined – 1st Feb)
ADAPTATIONS
- Heartstoppers – Alice Osman – Coming to Netflix 2022
- Children of Blood and Bone – Tomi Adeyemi – Feature film coming to Paramount Pictures soon.
Hey hey hey!
Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, Christopher Edge, author of the several books for children, including the brand new Escape Room, joins us on the show!
Chris and I talked about having to research for his latest book, creating puzzles and plots, and coming up with endings that stay with you.
Chris was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful he was able to join us on the show.
Enjoy!
https://www.welcome-to-the-escape.com/start
COMPETITION
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a copy of Nisha's War then head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub.
Send us a tweet using the hashtag #Escapecomp and tell us your best riddle
(UK residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 18th February.
Hey hey hey!
Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, Tasha Harrison, joins us to promote her MG debut, Clementine Florentine.
Tasha and I chatted about Bath Novel award, her experience as a debut author, and what's next.
Tasha was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful she was able to join us on the show.
Enjoy!
COMPETITION
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a copy of Clementine Florentine head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub.
Send us a tweet using the hashtag #ClementineComp and write us a bookish Haiku
(UK residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 16th February.
Hey hey hey!
Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, Gill Lewis returns to talk about her busy 2021 and new book, Song of the River.
Gill and I chatted about her move to Wales, writing dog mythology, and secret rat projects.
Gill was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful she was able to join us on the show.
Enjoy!
COMPETITION
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a copy of Song of the River, head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub.
Send us a tweet using the hashtag #RiverComp and tell us your favourite river animal. 🦦🦫🦌🦅
(UK residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 11th February.
Welcome back for another Mid-Week review, a book review in the middle of the week (it's kind of obvious by the title haha). Let's take a look at this week's book!
This week's review is:
Twitch by M. G. Leonard
Publisher: Walker Books
Age Range: 8+
Genre(s): Middle Grade, Mystery, Adventure
Page Count: 304
Star Rating: 4.4⭐ (out of 5)
Plot: 4 / Pacing: 5 / Characters: 5 / Style: 4 / Setting: 4
Hey hey hey!
Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, Dan Smith, author of the several books for children, including the Crooked Oak series and new Nisha's War, joins us on the show!
Dan and I talked about his journey to
Dan was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful he was able to join us on the show.
Enjoy!
COMPETITION
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a copy of Nisha's War then head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub.
Send us a tweet using the hashtag #NishaComp and come up with an inspiring family motto.
(UK residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 4th February.
Hey hey hey!
Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, Lesley Parr, author of the Valley of the Lost Secret and When the War Came Home, joins us on the show!
Lesley and I talked about turning university projects into books, unsuspectedly becoming a historical fiction author, and writing to connect to home.
Lesley was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful she was able to join us on the show.
Enjoy!
COMPETITION
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a copy of When the War Came Home then head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub.
Send us a tweet using the hashtag #NattyComp and come up with a catchy protest slogan to fight for "FREE SCHOOL MEALS"
(UK residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 4th February.
Hey hey hey!
Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, Gabriela Houston, author of the The Second Bell and The Wind Child, joins us on the show!
Gabriela and I talked about Slavic folklores, writing stories that deal with harsh truths, and the adventures of fairy tales reimagined.
Gabriela was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful she was able to join us on the show.
Enjoy!
COMPETITION
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a copy of The Wind Child then head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub.
Send us a tweet using the hashtag #WindChildComp and tell us your favourite thing about winter.
(UK residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 28th January.
Welcome back for another Mid-Week review, a book review in the middle of the week (it's kind of obvious by the title haha). Let's take a look at this week's book!
This week's review is:
The Wizard In My Shed: The Misadventures of Merdyn the Wild by Simon Farnaby
Publisher: Hachette Children's Group
Age Range: 9+
Genre(s): Middle Grade, Humor, Adventure
Page Count: 384
Star Rating: 4⭐ (out of 5)
Plot: 4 / Pacing: 3 / Characters: 5 / Style: 4 / Setting: 4
Hey hey hey!
Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, Rab Ferguson, debut author of the Landfill Mountains, joins us on the show!
Rab and I chatted about switching from short stories to his first full-length novels, writing about climate change, and writing stories within stories.
Rab was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful he was able to join us on the show.
Enjoy!
COMPETITION
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a copy of The Landfill Mountains then head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub.
Send us a tweet using the hashtag # LandfillComp and tell us what your biggest dream is!
(UK residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 1st October.
Hey hey hey!
Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, Ruth Estevez, debut author of The Monster Belt joins us on the show!
Ruth and I chatted about how growing up in Yorkshire shaped her, working on tv script to writing full length novels
Ruth was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful she was able to join us on the show.
Enjoy!
COMPETITION
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a copy of The Monster Belt, head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub.
Send us a tweet using the hashtag #MonsterComp and tell us what mystery you'd love to know the answers to?
(UK residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 17th September
Hey, hey, hey!
Welcome to our Mid-Week review!!
Each week, we’re going to be reviewing a Middle Grade or Young Adult novel and giving you the scoop on whether it’s any good!
Our rating system for non-fiction is out of 5 stars with the following categories being looked at:
Purpose, Style, Authority, Usefulness
All the categories are ranked from five, added together, and divided by 4 to give a final rating!
This week’s episode features:
—————————————–
Rebel Animals At-Risk: Stories of Survival by Kimberlie Hamilton
Publisher: Scholastic
Age Range: 7+
Genre(s): Non-Fiction, Animal Conservation
Page Count: 156
Star Rating: 4.25 stars (out of 5)
Hey hey hey!
Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, Martin Brown, illustrator of Horrible histories and author of Nell and the Cave Bear, joins us on the show!
Martin and I chatted about switching from teaching to illustration, giving forgotten animals the limelight, and turning geography into narrative.
Martin was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful he was able to join us on the show.
Enjoy!
COMPETITION
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a copy of Nell & the Cave Bear then head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub.
Send us a tweet using the hashtag #NellComp and tell us what animal companion you wish you had
(UK residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 10th September.
Hey hey hey!
Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, Alex Cotter, debut author of The House on the Edge joins us on the show!
Alex and I chatted about the changing from YA to middle grade, finding the balance of emotions in her writing, and the excitement of writing.
Alex was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful she was able to join us on the show.
Enjoy!
COMPETITION
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a copy of Lightning Catcher, head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub.
Send us a tweet using the hashtag #LookoutComp and tell us where you wish you had a secret doorway to in your house?
(UK residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 3rd September
Hey, hey, hey!
It’s a new month so I’m joined by Rab (@rabtales), Emma (@emmakeane10), and special guest Laura (@librarylaurapod) as we celebrate our 1st birthday!
It's super exciting and can't believe the fun we've had since the podcast started.
Happy Birthday to you the listeners who make this all possible :D
Landfill Mountains - Released 14th September 2021: https://www.onwe.co/product-page/the-landfill-mountains
https://www.waterstones.com/book/the-landfill-mountains/rab-ferguson/9781913872045
A story from our very own Rab!
Books talked about in this episode:
Aristotle and Dante Dive into the Waters of the World by Benjamin Alire Saenz (YA)
Tokyo Ever After by Emiko Jean (YA)
Maggie Blue and the Dark World by Anna Goodall (MG)
The Weather Weaver by Tamsin Mori (MG)
House of Serendipity: Sequins and Secrets by Lucy Ivison (MG)
A Soft Place to Land by Janae Marks (MG)
The Last Kids on earth and the Doomsday Race by Max Brailler (MG)
And more to follow!
We also want to give a big shout out to:
Black Lives Matter - https://blacklivesmatter.com/
Campaign Against Climate Change - https://www.campaigncc.org/
So sit back, relax, and get lost in a good book-ish podcast
Follow us on Twitter: @bigkidsbookclubpodcast
Hey hey hey!
Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, Clare Weze, debut author of The Lightning Catcher joins us on the show!
Clare and I chatted about the scientific process of writing, the highs and lows of debut, and what’s coming next?
Clare was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful she was able to join us on the show.
Enjoy!
COMPETITION
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a copy of Lightning Catcher, head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub.
Send us a tweet using the hashtag #LightningComp and tell us what mythical creature you’d have as a friend
(UK residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 27th August.
Hey hey hey!
Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, Sophie Kirtley, author of Wild Way Home and Way to Impossible Island joins us on the show!
Sophie and I chatted about the psychology of kids emotions, finding the right POV for the novel, and coming up with Stone Age Names.
Sophie was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful she was able to join us on the show.
Enjoy!
COMPETITION
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a copy of both In this episode, Sophie Kirtley, author of Wild Way Home and Way to Impossible Island then head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub.
Send us a tweet using the hashtag #WildComp and tell us your Stone Age name
(UK residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 25th August.
Hey hey hey!
Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, Darren Simpson, author of Scavengers and the Memory Thieves, joins us on the show!
Darren and I chatted about switching from adult to children's fiction, how memories and honest come through, and growing in writing.
Darren was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful he was able to join us on the show.
Enjoy!
COMPETITION
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a copy of The memory Thieves then head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub.
Send us a tweet using the hashtag #MemoryComp and tell us a cherished memory
(UK residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 20th August.
Hey hey hey!
Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, Kimberlie Hamilton, author of Rebel Animals series joins us on the show!
Kimberlie and I chatted about animal stories, writing under extreme deadlines, and story inspirations.
Kimberlie was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful she was able to join us on the show.
Enjoy!
COMPETITION
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a copy of Rebel Animals at Risk then head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub.
Send us a tweet using the hashtag #RebelComp and tell us an endangered animal species you wish you could save.
(UK residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 18th August.
Hey hey hey!
Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, Hannah Peck, illustrator and now author of Kate on the Case, joins us on the show!
Hannah and I chatted about pitching books, the transition from picture books to middle grade, and the fun in ryhmes.
Hannah was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful she was able to join us on the show.
Enjoy!
COMPETITION
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a copy of Kate on the Case then head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub.
Send us a tweet using the hashtag #KateComp and tell us your favourite Breakfast treat!
(UK residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 14th August.
Hey hey hey!
Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, Bali Rai, author of the Now or Never and Mohinder's War, joins us on the show!
Bali and I chatted about finding diversity in history, writing multiple projects at once, and what makes us think of family.
Bali was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful he was able to join us on the show.
Enjoy!
COMPETITION
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a copy of The Royal Rebel then head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub.
Send us a tweet using the hashtag #RebelComp and tell us what makes you think of home
(UK residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 11th August.
Hey hey hey!
Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, Onjali Q. Raúf, author of the Boy at the Back of the Class, joins us on the show!
Onjali and I chatted about finding inspiration in refugee camps, writing books that challenge our minds, and writing her first book in university and never allowing it to be seen again!
Onjali was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful she was able to join us on the show.
Enjoy!
COMPETITION
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a copy of The Great Food Bank Heist then head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub.
Send us a tweet using the hashtag #BreakfastComp and tell us your favourite breakfast treat
(UK residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 6th August.
Hey hey hey!
Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, Steve Cole, author of over 100 novels for kids joins us on the show.
Steve and I chatted about finding stories naturally
Steve was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful he was able to join us on the show.
Enjoy!
As part of this podcast, we are promoting UNICEF, a children's charity that's keen on helping children in poverty all over the world.
Head over to our twitter, Follow @BigKidsBookClub with the hashtag #Schoolforall .
Like and share for a chance to win a copy of Steve's TRASHLAND.
Competition closes midnight 4th August.
Hey, hey, hey!
It’s a new month so I’m joined by Rab (@rabtales) for a boys only monthly book chat as we get all chilled and break into Summer Reads in this month's topic.
Onwe Press - https://www.onwe.co/ and the pre-order campaign for Landfill Mountains is on special offer right now and those who buy it will receive a bonus short story from the author - our very own Rab!
We also want to give a big shout out to:
Black Lives Matter - https://blacklivesmatter.com/
Campaign Against Climate Change - https://www.campaigncc.org/
So sit back, relax, and get lost in a good book-ish podcast
Follow us on Twitter: @Bigkidsbookclub
Hey hey hey!
Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, Pooja Puri, author of A Dinosaur ate my Sister, joins us on the show.
Pooja and I chatted about the differences writing for middle grade compared to young adult as well as her thoughts on being nominated for Carnegie awards and being the first pick for Marcus Rashford's book club.
Pooja was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful she was able to join us on the show.
Enjoy!
COMPETITION
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a copy of A Dinosaur ate my Sister then head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub.
Send us a tweet using the hashtag #DinosaurComp and tell us your favourite dinosaur.
(UK residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 30th July.
Hey hey hey!
Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, Kimberly Pauley, author and DnD fan, joins me on the show.
Kimberly and I chatted about the differences writing for middle grade compared to young adult as well as lots of Dungeons and Dragons inspired goodness.
Kimberly was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful she was able to join us on the show.
Enjoy!
COMPETITION
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a copy of The Accidental Wizard then head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub.
Send us a tweet using the hashtag #TwigComp and what magic spell you'd love to have in real life?
(UK residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 28th July.
Hey hey hey!
Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, Jasmine Richards, author and bookish innovator joins me on the show.
Jasmine and I chatted about 15 years of experience in the publishing industry, as well as finding success in the US before the UK, and finally Jasmine's new project with Storymix.
Jasmine was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful she was able to join us on the show.
Enjoy!
COMPETITION
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a copy of Aziza and the Secret Fairy Door then head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub.
Send us a tweet using the hashtag #AzizaComp and tell us where you'd like to escape through a fairy door to. (Either in this world or fantasy!)
(UK residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 23rd July.
Hey hey hey!
Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, Roy Peachey, author of The Race joins me on the show.
Roy and I chatted about his experiences as a runner, research into history, and the power of sport.
Roy was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful he was able to join us on the show.
Enjoy!
COMPETITION
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a copy of The Race then head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub.
Send us a tweet using the hashtag #RaceComp and come up with a hilarious Olympic event that you'd win at.
(UK residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 21st July.
Hey hey hey!
Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, Stephanie Burgis, author of The Dragon with a Chocolate Heart and new the Raven Heir saga joins me on the show.
Stephanie and I chatted about intense writing courses, how her local castle inspired a series as well as the magic of chocolate!
Stephanie was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful she was able to join us on the show.
Enjoy!
COMPETITION
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a copy of The Raven Heir then head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub.
Send us a tweet using the hashtag #RavenheirComp and tell us what animal you'd like to shapeshift into.
(UK residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 16th July.
Hey hey hey!
Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, Jim Beckett, author of Caravan at the Edge of Doom joins me on the show.
Jim and I chatted about his journey from Edinburgh Fringe Festivals to exploding loos, and what makes up the hero's journey.
Jim was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful he was able to join us on the show.
Enjoy!
COMPETITION
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a copy of Caravan at the Edge of Doom then head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub.
Send us a tweet using the hashtag #DoomComp and come up with a hilarious Herculean task or riddle that would challenge a true hero. The funnier that better.
(UK residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 14th July.
Hey hey hey!
Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, Julia Golding, author of The Jane Austen Investigates: The Abbey Mystery, joins Emma on the show.
Julia and Emma chatted about writing historical fiction, how life experiences refer to writing and exploring Jane's early life.
Julia was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful she was able to join us on the show.
Enjoy!
COMPETITION
If you want to be in with a chance of winning Jane Austen Investigates: The Abbey Mystery then head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub.
Send us a tweet using the hashtag #AustenComp and name another Jane Austen character who'd make a good detective
(UK residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 9th July.
Hey, hey, hey!
It’s a new month so I’m joined by Rab (@rabtales), Emma (@emmakeane10) as we celebrate Pride month and LGBTQ+ books in this month's topic.
Onwe Press - https://www.onwe.co/ and the pre-order campaign for Landfill Mountains is on special offer right now and those who buy it will receive a bonus short story from the author - our very own Rab!
We also want to give a big shout out to:
Black Lives Matter - https://blacklivesmatter.com/
Campaign Against Climate Change - https://www.campaigncc.org/
So sit back, relax, and get lost in a good book-ish podcast
Follow us on Twitter: @Bigkidsbookclub
Hey hey hey!
Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, Barbara Henderson, author and illustrator of the Chessman thief, joins me on the show.
Barbara and I chatted about writing historical fiction, being fascinated with unique stories and tales of Celtic history.
Barbara was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful she was able to join us on the show.
Enjoy!
COMPETITION
If you want to be in with a chance of winning the Chessman Thief then head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub.
Send us a tweet using the hashtag #ChessComp and create a new chess piece.
(UK residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 2nd July.
Hey hey hey!
Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, Terri Libenson, author and illustrator of the Emmie and Friends, joins me on the show.
Terri and I chatted about blending experiences into stories and moving from newspaper comics to middle grade novels.
Terri was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful she was able to join us on the show.
Enjoy!
COMPETITION
If you want to be in with a chance of winning the entire Emmie and Friends series (5 books!) then head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub.
Send us a tweet using the hashtag #TylerComp and tell us your favourite subject at school and why.
(UK residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 25th June
Hey hey hey!
Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, Bryony Pearce, author of the YA thrillers and the brand new, Raising Hell, joins me on the show.
Bryony and I chatted about creating normal characters for teens to find themselves in and creating sequels by accident.
Bryony was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful she was able to join us on the show.
Enjoy!
COMPETITION
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a signed copy of Raising Hell, then head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub.
Send us a tweet using the hashtag #BryonyComp and come up with a zombie killing weapon and give it a cool name!
(UK residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 18th June
Hey, hey, hey!
Welcome to our Mid-Week review 📚🎙🎧
Each week, we're going to be reviewing a Middle Grade or Young Adult novel and giving you the scoop on whether it's any good!
Our rating system is out of 5 stars with the following categories being looked at:
Plot, Pacing, Characters, Style, Setting
All the categories are ranked from five, added together, and divided by 5 to give a final rating!
This week's episode features:
Arctic Star by Tom Palmer
Publisher: Barrington Stoke
Age Range: 9+
Genre(s): Historical Fiction
Page Count: 196
Star Rating: 4.4⭐(out of 5)
Hey hey hey!
Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, Claire Barker, author of the Kintbone Pepper and Picklewitch and Jack series, joins me on the show.
Claire and I chatted about undoing knots in your writing, finding the best friendships through tension and waiting for characters to visit.
Claire was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful she was able to join us on the show.
Enjoy!
COMPETITION
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a signed copy of Picklewitch and Jack , then head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub.
Send us a tweet using the hashtag #PicklewitchComp and tell us what spell you'd like to be able to cast.
(UK residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 11th June
Hey, hey, hey!
Welcome to our Mid-Week review 📚🎙🎧
Each week, we're going to be reviewing a Middle Grade or Young Adult novel and giving you the scoop on whether it's any good!
Our rating system for non-fiction is out of 5 stars with the following categories being looked at:
Purpose, Style, Authority, Usefulness
All the categories are ranked from five, added together, and divided by 4 to give a final rating!
This week's episode features:
You are a champion by Marcus Rashford (with Carl Anka)
Publisher: Macmillan
Age Range: 9+
Genre(s): Non-Fiction, Self Help
Page Count: 208
Star Rating: 4.25⭐(out of 5)
Hey, hey, hey!
It’s a new month so I’m joined by Rab (@rabtales), Emma (@emmakeane10), and special guest Laura (@librarylaurapod) as we look all things contemporary in this month's topic.
Onwe Press - https://www.onwe.co/ and the pre-order campaign for Landfill Mountains is on special offer right now and those who buy it will receive a bonus short story from the author - our very own Rab!
We also want to give a big shout out to:
Black Lives Matter - https://blacklivesmatter.com/
Campaign Against Climate Change - https://www.campaigncc.org/
So sit back, relax, and get lost in a good book-ish podcast
Follow us on Twitter: @Bigkidsbookclub
Hey hey hey!
Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, Louie Stowell, author of the Dragon in the Library series and new book Otherland, joins me on the show.
Louie and I chatted about how Otherland started life over 20 years ago, how making friends in real life made her protagonist believable on the pages and the inspiration found in a dissenters graveyard.
Louie was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful she was able to join us on the show.
Enjoy!
COMPETITION
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a signed copy of Otherland, then head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub.
Send us a tweet using the hashtag #OtherlandComp and tell us who'd you'd rescue from Otherland!
(UK residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 4th June
Hey, hey, hey!
Welcome to our Mid-Week review 📚🎙🎧
Each week, we're going to be reviewing a Middle Grade or Young Adult novel and giving you the scoop on whether it's any good!
Our rating system is out of 5 stars with the following categories being looked at:
Plot, Pacing, Characters, Style, Setting
All the categories are ranked from five, added together, and divided by 5 to give a final rating!
This week's episode features:
Otherland by Louie Stowell
Publisher: Nosy Crow
Age Range: 7+
Genre(s): Fantasy
Page Count: 224
Star Rating: 4⭐(out of 5)
Hey hey hey!
Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, Justin Somper, author of the Vampirates & the Allies & Assassins series, joins me on the show.
Justin and I chatted about how the idea for Vampirates popped into his head, coming up with pirates and taking the plunge to re-launch his book series.
Justin was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful he was able to join us on the show.
Enjoy!
COMPETITION
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a signed copy of the whole Vampirates series, then head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub.
Send us a tweet using the hashtag #VampirateComp and tell us your amazing vampire/pirate captain's inspired names.
(UK residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 28th May.
Hey, hey, hey!
Welcome to our Mid-Week review 📚🎙🎧
Each week, we're going to be reviewing a Middle Grade or Young Adult novel and giving you the scoop on whether it's any good!
Our rating system is out of 5 stars with the following categories being looked at:
Plot, Pacing, Characters, Style, Setting
All the categories are ranked from five, added together, and divided by 5 to give a final rating!
This week's episode features:
Rumaysa: A Fairytale by Radiya Hafiza
Publisher: Pan Macmillan
Age Range: 7+
Genre(s): Fantasy/Retelling
Page Count: 240
Star Rating: 4.1⭐(out of 5)
Hey hey hey!
Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, we have a UCLan Publishing double header!!! We're joined by Andy Robb and Tamsin Mori on the show.
Andy and Tamsin chatted about their latest novels out now online or in books shops!
Both great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful they were able to join us on the show.
Enjoy!
DOUBLE COMPETITION
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a signed copy of Andy's Smashed, head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub. Send us a tweet using the hashtag #SmasedComp.
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a signed copy of Tamsin's Weather Weaver, head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub. Send us a tweet using the hashtag #WeaverComp.
(UK residents only)
The competitions close midnight on 21st May
Hey, hey, hey!
Welcome to our Mid-Week review 📚🎙🎧
Each week, we're going to be reviewing a Middle Grade or Young Adult novel and giving you the scoop on whether it's any good!
Our rating system is out of 5 stars with the following categories being looked at:
Plot, Pacing, Characters, Style, Setting
All the categories are ranked from five, added together, and divided by 5 to give a final rating!
This week's episode features:
The Last Hawk by Elizabeth Wein
Publisher: Barrington Stoke
Age Range: 9+
Genre(s): Historical
Page Count: 120
Star Rating: 3.8⭐(out of 5)
Hey hey hey!
Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, we have a double header!!! We're joined by Kirsty Applebaum and Sam Thompson on the show.
Kirsty and Sam chatted about their latest novels out now online or in books shops!
Both great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful they were able to join us on the show.
Enjoy!
DOUBLE COMPETITION
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a signed copy of Kirsty's The Life and TIme of Lonny Quicke, head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub. Send us a tweet using the hashtag #LonnyComp.
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a signed copy of Sam's Wolfstongue, head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub. Send us a tweet using the hashtag #WolfsComp.
(UK residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 14th May
Hey, hey, hey!
Welcome to our Mid-Week review 📚🎙🎧
Each week, we're going to be reviewing a Middle Grade or Young Adult novel and giving you the scoop on whether it's any good!
Our rating system is out of 5 stars with the following categories being looked at:
Plot, Pacing, Characters, Style, Setting
All the categories are ranked from five, added together, and divided by 5 to give a final rating!
This week's episode features:
Wolfstongue by Sam Thompson
Publisher: Little Island
Age Range: 9+
Genre(s): Fantasy/Adventure
Page Count: 212
Star Rating: 4.1⭐(out of 5)
Hey, hey, hey!
It’s a new month so I’m joined by special guest Laura (@librarylaurapod) as we tickle our funny bones in this month's topic.
Get ready for childish fart jokes and giggles galore
Onwe Press - https://www.onwe.co/ and the pre-order campaign for Landfill Mountains is on special offer right now and those who buy it will receive a bonus short story from the author - our very own Rab!
Books talked about in this episode:
Aru Shah and the End of Time by Roshani Chokshi (MG)
Kid Normal by Chris Smith and Greg James (MG)
And more to follow!
We also want to give a big shout out to:
Black Lives Matter - https://blacklivesmatter.com/
Campaign Against Climate Change - https://www.campaigncc.org/
So sit back, relax, and get lost in a good book-ish podcast
Follow us on Twitter: @Bigkidsbookclub
Hey hey hey!
Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, Reni K Amayo , author of Daughters of Nri and publisher with Onwe Press, joins me on the show.
Reni and I chatted about her writing as a route to discover her history, the importance of creating books she's passionate about and working on books to avoid writing.
Reni was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful she was able to join us on the show.
Enjoy!
COMPETITION
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a signed copy of Daughters of Nri, then head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub.
Send us a tweet using the hashtag #NriComp and tell us somebody you feel is as close as a brother or sister but who isn't!
(UK residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 30th April.
Hey, hey, hey!
Welcome to our Mid-Week review 📚🎙🎧
Each week, we're going to be reviewing a Middle Grade or Young Adult novel and giving you the scoop on whether it's any good!
Our rating system is out of 5 stars with the following categories being looked at:
Plot, Pacing, Characters, Style, Setting
All the categories are ranked from five, added together, and divided by 5 to give a final rating!
This week's episode features:
Who Let the Gods Out by Maz Evans
Publisher: Chicken House
Age Range: 9+
Genre(s): Action/Fantasy
Page Count: 384
Star Rating: 4⭐(out of 5)
Hey hey hey!
Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, we have a double header!!! We're joined by Karen McCombie and Phil Earle on the show.
Karen and Phil chatted about their latest novels brought to us by Barrington Stoke
Both great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful they were able to join us on the show.
Enjoy!
DOUBLE COMPETITION
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a signed copy of Karen's Girl with her Head in the Clouds, head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub. Send us a tweet using the hashtag #CloudsComp and tell us a high adrenaline activity you'd like to do.
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a signed copy of Phil's The Dog who saved the world cup, head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub. Send us a tweet using the hashtag #PicklesComp and send us a picture of your pets!
(UK residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 23rd April.
Hey, hey, hey!
Welcome to our Mid-Week review 📚🎙🎧
Each week, we're going to be reviewing a Middle Grade or Young Adult novel and giving you the scoop on whether it's any good!
Our rating system is out of 5 stars with the following categories being looked at:
Plot, Pacing, Characters, Style, Setting
All the categories are ranked from five, added together, and divided by 5 to give a final rating!
This week's episode features:
The Nowhere Emporium by Ross Mackenzie
Publisher: Kelpies
Age Range: 9+
Genre(s): Fantasy
Page Count: 291
Star Rating: 3.8⭐(out of 5)
Hey hey hey!
Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, C.G. Moore, author of Fallout and Gut Feelings joins us on the show.
Chris and I chatted about how he wrote his novels, his ability to open up and looking for connections between his fans and his books.
Chris was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful he was able to join us on the show.
Enjoy!
COMPETITION
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a signed copy of Gut Feelings, then head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub.
Send us a tweet using the hashtag #FeelingsComp and tag somebody who's always been there to support you.
(UK residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 16th April.
Hey hey hey!
Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, Lindsay J Sedgwick, author of Wulfie Series joins me on the show.
Lindsay and I chatted about her inspiration from creating the character of Wulfie for her daughter, the reasons for missing socks and also the fun in writing villains like Roald Dahl.
Lindsay was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful she was able to join us on the show.
Enjoy!
COMPETITION
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a signed copy of Wulfie: Stage Fright, then head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub.
Send us a tweet using the hashtag #WulfieComp and tag your best friend.
(UK and Ireland residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 9th April.
Hey, hey, hey!
It’s a new month so I’m joined by Rab (@rabtales), Emma (@emmakeane10), and special guest Laura (@librarylaurapod) as we look all things fantasy in this month's topic chosen by you! The Lovely Listeners. We talk about what is fantasy, what fantasy worlds we'd like to visit, and a ton of baby dragons.
Onwe Press - https://www.onwe.co/ and the pre-order campaign for Landfill Mountains is on special offer right now and those who buy it will receive a bonus short story from the author - our very own Rab!
Books talked about in this episode:
The Girl Who Drank the Moon by Kelly Barnhill (MG)
The Cruel Prince by Holly Black (YA)
Cinder by Marissa Meyer (YA)
A Wizard of Earthsea by Ursula Le Guin (MG)
The Chronicles of Narnia by C. S. Lewis (MG)
And more to follow!
We also want to give a big shout out to:
Black Lives Matter - https://blacklivesmatter.com/
Campaign Against Climate Change - https://www.campaigncc.org/
So sit back, relax, and get lost in a good book-ish podcast
Follow us on Twitter: @Bigkidsbookclub
Hey, hey, hey!
Welcome to our Mid-Week review 📚🎙🎧
Each week, we're going to be reviewing a Middle Grade or Young Adult novel and giving you the scoop on whether it's any good!
Our rating system is out of 5 stars with the following categories being looked at:
Plot, Pacing, Characters, Style, Setting
All the categories are ranked from five, added together, and divided by 5 to give a final rating!
This week's episode features:
Lemons by Melissa Savage
Publisher: Crown Publishing
Age Range: 7+
Genre(s): Contemporary
Page Count: 320
Star Rating: 4.4⭐(out of 5)
Hey hey hey!
Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, Sarah Hagger Holt, author of Nothing ever happens here and brand new Proud of Me joins me on the show.
Sarah and I chatted about her inspiration from helping awesome LGBTQ+ families in her day job, creating characters with unique voices and her plans for future books.
Sarah was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful she was able to join us on the show.
Enjoy!
COMPETITION
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a signed copy of Proud of Me, then head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub.
Send us a tweet using the hashtag #ProudComp and tell us somebody you're proud of.
(UK residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 26th March.
Hey, hey, hey!
Welcome to our Mid-Week review 📚🎙🎧
Each week, we're going to be reviewing a Middle Grade or Young Adult novel and giving you the scoop on whether it's any good!
Our rating system is out of 5 stars with the following categories being looked at:
Plot, Pacing, Characters, Style, Setting
All the categories are ranked from five, added together, and divided by 5 to give a final rating!
This week's episode features:
The Remarkable Journey of Coyote Sunrise by Dan Gemeinhart
Publisher: Henry Holt and Co
Age Range: 9+
Genre(s): Contemporary
Page Count: 346 pages
Star Rating: 4.4⭐(out of 5)
Check out the Laura Library Podcast here: https://www.stitcher.com/show/the-library-laura-podcast
Hey hey hey!
Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, Gill Lewis, author of over 15 Middle Grade novels that centre around animals and wildlife joins me on the show.
Gill and I chatted about how being a vet earlier in life inspired her writing, finding ways to bring conservation to light in her books and how we all know an Alan Jenkins in our lives.
Gill was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful she was able to join us on the show.
Enjoy!
COMPETITION
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a signed copy of the Swan Song, then head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub.
Send us a tweet using the hashtag #SwanComp and tell us what you'd name your very own boat.
(UK residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 19th March.
Hey hey hey!
Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, Lauren James, author of the YA sci-fi fiction - including the Quiet at the End of the World and Loneliest Girl in the Universe.
Lauren and I chatted about how writing through lockdown, how she wanted to be a scientist and how that impacts her writing and of course her two novella's written with Barrington Stoke: The Starlight Watchmaker and The Deep Sea Duke.
Lauren was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful she was able to join us on the show.
Enjoy!
COMPETITION
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a a copy of both the Starlight Watchmaker and The Deep Sea Duke. , then head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub.
Send us a tweet using the hashtag #DukeComp and tell us when in time you'd like to like to visit
(UK residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 12th March.
Hey, hey, hey!
Welcome to our Mid-Week review 📚🎙🎧
Each week, we're going to be reviewing a Middle Grade or Young Adult novel and giving you the scoop on whether it's any good!
Our rating system is out of 5 stars with the following categories being looked at:
Plot, Pacing, Characters, Style, Setting
All the categories are ranked from five, added together, and divided by 5 to give a final rating!
This week's episode features:
Brightstorm by Vashti Hardy
Publisher: Scholastic
Age Range: 7+
Genre(s): Steampunk/Adventure
Page Count: 348
Star Rating: 4.4⭐(out of 5)
Hey, hey, hey!
It’s a new month so I’m joined by Rab (@rabtales) and Emma (@emmakeane10) as we look at romance as February is the month of St Valentine's. We ponder first loves, romance and friendships and talk about our book recommendations and TBR boosters.
Books talked about in this episode:
Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe by Benjamin Alire Saenz (YA)
Proud of Me by Sarah Hagger-Holt (MG)
Paper Towns by John Green (YA)
Super Fake Love Song by David Yoon (YA)
Kingdom of Thorns by Katherine Macdonald (YA)
Counting Down to You by Tashie Bhuiyan (YA)
We also want to give a big shout out to:
Onwe Press - https://www.onwe.co/
Black Lives Matter - https://blacklivesmatter.com/
Campaign Against Climate Change - https://www.campaigncc.org/
So sit back, relax, and get lost in a good book-ish podcast
Follow us on Twitter: @Bigkidsbookclub
Hey, hey, hey!
Welcome to our Mid-Week review 📚🎙🎧
Each week, we're going to be reviewing a Middle Grade or Young Adult novel and giving you the scoop on whether it's any good!
Our rating system is out of 5 stars with the following categories being looked at:
Plot, Pacing, Characters, Style, Setting
All the categories are ranked from five, added together, and divided by 5 to give a final rating!
This week's episode features:
The Last Last Day of Summer by Lamar Giles
Publisher: Versify Publishing
Age Range: 9+
Genre(s): Action/Mystery
Page Count: 304
Star Rating: 4.4⭐(out of 5)
Hey hey hey!
Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, Alex Bell, author of the YA horror fiction and the middle grade Polar Bear Explorer's club joins me on the show.
Alex and I chatted about how she wrote her first novel while studying to become a lawyer in university, trying several genres and the freedom to write for yourself, as well as her new series set in the Polar Bear world.
Alex was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful she was able to join us on the show.
Enjoy!
COMPETITION
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a signed copy of the Ocean Squid Explorer's Club, then head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub.
Send us a tweet using the hashtag #SquidComp and tell us where you'd like to go exploring.
(UK residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 26th February.
Hey, hey, hey!
Welcome to our Mid-Week review 📚🎙🎧
Each week, we're going to be reviewing a Middle Grade or Young Adult novel and giving you the scoop on whether it's any good!
Our rating system is out of 5 stars with the following categories being looked at:
Plot Pacing Characters Style Setting
All the categories are ranked from five, added together, and divided by 5 to give a final rating!
This week's episode features:
When You Trap A Tiger by Tae Keller
Publisher: Penguin Random House
Age Range: 10+
Genre(s): Fantasy/Contemporary
Page Count: 304
Star Rating: 4.2⭐(out of 5)
Hey hey hey!
Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, Jennifer Bell, author of the Uncommoners Series, Agents of the Wild and Wonderscape, joins me on the show.
Jennifer and I chatted about how working in a book shop inspired her to write, her list of historical heroes and the wonders of the animal world.
Jennifer was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful she was able to join us on the show.
Enjoy!
(Apologies for any audio difficulties)
COMPETITION
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a signed copy of the Wonderscape, then head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub.
Send us a tweet using the hashtag #WonderComp and tell us a historical figure you'd like to spend the afternoon with.
(UK residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 19th February.
Hey, hey, hey!
Welcome to our Mid-Week review 📚🎙🎧
Each week, we're going to be reviewing a Middle Grade or Young Adult novel and giving you the scoop on whether it's any good!
Our rating system is out of 5 stars with the following categories being looked at:
Plot Pacing Characters Style Setting
All the categories are ranked from five, added together, and divided by 5 to give a final rating!
This week's episode features:
WInter of the Wolves by Tony Bradman
Publisher: Bloomsbury
Age Range: 10+
Genre(s): Historical Fiction
Page Count: 152
Star Rating: 4⭐(out of 5)
Hey hey hey!
Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, Jasbinder Bilan, author of the Asha and Spirit Bird, and Tamarind and the Star of Ishta, joins me on the show.
Jasbinder and I chatted about finding magic in books, wishing to get transported to other worlds through wardrobes, and of course the inspiration she had writing her books, inspired greatly from her childhood.
Jasbinder was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful she was able to join us on the show.
Enjoy!
COMPETITION
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a signed copy of the Tamarind and the Star of Ishta, then head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub.
Send us a tweet using the hashtag #TamarindComp and tell us where you'd like to be transported to through a secret magical garden.
(UK residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 12th February.
Hey, hey, hey!
Welcome to our Mid-Week review 📚🎙🎧
Each week, we're going to be reviewing a Middle Grade or Young Adult novel and giving you the scoop on whether it's any good!
Our rating system is out of 5 stars with the following categories being looked at:
Plot Pacing Characters Style Setting
All the categories are ranked from five, added together, and divided by 5 to give a final rating!
This week's episode features:
The Quiet at the End of the World by Lauren James
Publisher: Walker Books
Age Range: YA
Genre(s): Sci-FI
Page Count: 352
Star Rating: 4.2⭐(out of 5)
Hey, hey, hey!
It’s a new month so I’m joined by Rab (@rabtales) and Emma (@emmakeane10) as we start the year afresh, with new hopes and ideas. We talk about the debuts that excited us and looked at the challenges new debuts face in an ever enlarged market.
Books talked about in this episode:
Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky (MG)
Cogheart by Peter Bunzl (MG)
This is my America by Kim Johnson (YA)
Dream Country by Ashaye Brown (YA)
The Weather Weaver by Tamsin Mori (MG)
We also want to give a big shout out to:
Onwe Press - https://www.onwe.co/
Black Lives Matter - https://blacklivesmatter.com/
Campaign Against Climate Change - https://www.campaigncc.org/
So sit back, relax, and get lost in a good book-ish podcast
Follow us on Twitter: @Bigkidsbookclub
Hey, hey, hey!
Welcome to our new podcast segment.
We're calling it our MID-WEEK REVIEW!!! .... you know, because it's a book review... in the middle of the week? 😂📚🎙🎧
Each week, we're going to be reviewing a Middle Grade or Young Adult novel and giving you the scoop on whether it's any good!
Our rating system is out of 5 stars with the following categories being looked at:
Plot Pacing Characters Style Setting
All the categories are ranked from five, added together, and divided by 5 to give a final rating!
This week's episode features:
Dragon Mountain by Katie and Kevin Tsang
Publisher: Simon and Schuster
Age Range: 9-12
Genre(s): Fantasy
Page Count: 336
Star Rating: 4⭐(out of 5)
Hey hey hey!
Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, Serena Patel, author of the Anisha: Accidental Detective series, joins me on the show.
Serena and I chatted about her inspirations and journey writing Anisha, the success it's had, and what makes a good middle grade mystery.
Serena was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful she was able to join us on the show.
Enjoy!
COMPETITION
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a signed copy of the Anisha: Accidental Detective, then head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub.
Send us a tweet using the hashtag #AnishaComp and tag somebody you'd make a good detective partner!
(UK residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 29thJanuary.
Hey, hey, hey!
Welcome to our new podcast segment.
We're calling it our MID-WEEK REVIEW!!! .... you know, because it's a book review... in the middle of the week? 😂📚🎙🎧
Each week, we're going to be reviewing a Middle Grade or Young Adult novel and giving you the scoop on whether it's any good!
Our rating system is out of 5 stars with the following categories being looked at:
Plot Pacing Characters Style Setting
All the categories are ranked from five, added together, and divided by 5 to give a final rating!
This week's episode features:
The Humiliations of Welton Blake by Alex Wheatle
Publisher: Barrington Stoke
Age Range: 11+
Genre(s): Contemporary Fiction
Page Count: 138
Star Rating: 3.8⭐(out of 5)
Hey hey hey!
Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, Taran Matharu, author of the Summoner and Contender Series, joins me on the show.
Taran and I chatted about his journey to publication, finding inspiration in historical settings, and blending his time as an author and a book publisher.
Taran was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful he was able to join us on the show.
Enjoy!
COMPETITION
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a signed copy of the Chosen, then head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub.
Send us a tweet using the hashtag #ChosenComp and tag somebody you'd want to fight by your side in a fantasy death-match!
(UK residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 22nd January.
Hey, hey, hey!
Welcome to our new podcast segment.
We're calling it our MID-WEEK REVIEW!!! .... you know, because it's a book review... in the middle of the week? 😂📚🎙🎧
Each week, we're going to be reviewing a Middle Grade or Young Adult novel and giving you the scoop on whether it's any good!
Our rating system is out of 5 stars with the following categories being looked at:
Plot Pacing Characters Style Setting
All the categories are ranked from five, added together, and divided by 5 to give a final rating!
This week's episode features:
Now or Never - A Dunkirk Story by Bali Rai
Publisher: Scholastic
Age Range: 9 - 12
Genre(s): Historical Fiction
Page Count: 204
Star Rating: 4.4⭐(out of 5)
For fans of: Mohinder's War(Bali Rai/Bloomsbury) & Voices Series(Various/Scholastic)
Hey hey hey!
Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, Emma Carroll, queen of middle-grade historical fiction, joins us on the show.
Emma and I chatted about finding inspiration in historical events, how working as an English teacher balanced with her life as an author, and the makings of a good ghost story.
Emma was great to have on the show and we are very grateful she was able to join us on the show.
Enjoy!
COMPETITION
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a signed copy of Ghost Garden, then head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub.
Send us a tweet using the hashtag #GhostComp and tell us who you'd like to go ghost hunting with.
(UK residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 15th January.
Hey, hey, hey!
Welcome to our new podcast segment.
We're calling it our MID-WEEK REVIEW!!! .... you know, because it's a book review... in the middle of the week? 😂📚🎙🎧
Each week, we're going to be reviewing a Middle Grade or Young Adult novel and giving you the scoop on whether it's any good!
Our rating system is out of 5 stars with the following categories being looked at:
Plot Pacing Characters Style Setting
All the categories are ranked from five, added together and divided by 5 to give a final rating!
This week's episode features:
A Place Called Perfect by Helena Duggan
Publisher: Usbourne
Age Range: 9 - 12
Genre(s): Mystery
Page Count: 352
Star Rating: 3.4⭐(out of 5)
For fans of: Cogheart (Peter Bunzl/Usbourne) & Malamander (Thomas Taylor/Walker Books)
Hey hey hey!
Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, Kieran Larwood, author of the 5 Realms series, stops by the clubhouse to talk about his stories.
Kieran and I chatted about the fantasy stories that inspired him, how his drawings fuelled his imagination, and the joy at winning the Blue Peter Award
Kieran was so fantastic to have on the show and we are very grateful he was able to join us on the show.
Enjoy!
COMPETITION
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a signed copy of Pokin One-Ear, then head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub.
Send us a tweet using the hashtag #PodkinComp and help us name our new magic weapon for Podkin to use to take on the Gorm!
(UK residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 8th January.
Ho, ho, ho!
It’s Christmas, so I’m joined by Rab (@rabtales) and Emma (@emmakeane10) to wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy new year.
Thank you for your support this year.
See you in 2021!!
So sit back, relax, and get lost in a good book-ish podcast
Follow us on Twitter: @Bigkidsbookclub
Ho, ho, ho!
It’s a new month so I’m joined by Rab (@rabtales) and Emma (@emmakeane10) as we get into the winter cheer with a series of wondrously winter books. We also put some Christmas films on the naughty and nice lists. Find out if your favourite Christmas film made it onto the list.
Books talked about in this episode:
The Mouse and His Child by Russell Hoban (MG)
The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe by C. S. Lewis (MG)
The Polar Bear Explorers' Club by Alex Bell (MG)
Let It Snow: Three Holiday Romances by John Green, Lauren Myracle, and Maureen Johnson (YA)
Victor and Nora: a Gotham Love Story by Lauren Myracle (YA)
Frostheart by Jamie Littler (MG)
So sit back, relax, and get lost in a good book-ish podcast
Follow us on Twitter: @Bigkidsbookclub
Hey hey hey!
Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, Peter Bunzl, author of the Cogheart series, stops by the clubhouse to talk about his stories.
Peter and I chatted about how working in animation made him adapt to writing middle grade, finding the mystery in stories and new upcoming novels.
Peter was so fantastic to have on the show and we are very grateful he was able to join us on the show.
Enjoy!
COMPETITION
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a signed copy of Cogheart, then head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub.
Send us a tweet using the hashtag #CogheartComp and tell us what you'd name your own steampunk airship.
(UK residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 18th December.
Hey, hey, hey!
Welcome to our new podcast segment.
We're calling it our MID-WEEK REVIEW!!! .... you know, because it's a book review... in the middle of the week? 😂📚🎙🎧
Each week, we're going to be reviewing a Middle Grade or Young Adult novel and giving you the scoop on whether it's any good!
Our rating system is out of 5 stars with the following categories being looked at:
Plot
Pacing
Characters
Style
Setting
All the categories are ranked from five, added together, and divided by 5 to give a final rating!
This week's episode features:
Malamander by Thomas Taylor
Publisher: Walker Books
Age Range: 9 - 12 Middle Grade
Genre(s): Adventure Mystery
Page Count: 304
Star Rating: 4.4⭐(out of 5)
For fans of: Storm Keeper's Island (Catherine Doyle/Bloomsbury) and Wildspark (Vashti Hardy/Scholastic)
Hey hey hey!
Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, Alwyn Hamilton, author of The Rebel of the Sands trilogy drops in to chat to me and Emma about her books.
We talk about seeking stories with skillful protagonists, Alwyn writing her "almost" book and how it inevitably led to her trilogy.
For Emma and myself, it was an extra special interview. Alwyn was an amazing guest and we're so happy to have her on the show.
Enjoy!
COMPETITION
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a signed copy of Rebel of the Sands, then head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub.
Send us a tweet using the hashtag #RebelsComp and tell us what magical 1 power you'd want to have.
(UK residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 11th December.
Hey, hey, hey!
Welcome to our new podcast segment.
We're calling it our MID-WEEK REVIEW!!! .... you know, because it's a book review... in the middle of the week? 😂📚🎙🎧
Each week, we're going to be reviewing a Middle Grade or Young Adult novel and giving you the scoop on whether it's any good!
Our rating system is out of 5 stars with the following categories being looked at:
Plot Pacing Characters Style Setting
All the catergories are ranked from five, added together and divided by 5 to give a final rating!
This week's episode features:
The Adventures of Captain Underpants by Dav Pilkey
Publisher: Scholastic
Age Range: 7 - 11 Chapter Books
Genre(s): Superhero Comedy
Page Count: 125
Star Rating: 4.2⭐(out of 5)
For fans of: Marvel Rocket and Groot (Tom Angleberger/Egmont/Disney) & Dog Man (Dav Pilkey/Scholastic)
Hey hey hey!
Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, Alastair Chisholm, author of The Prince, the Witch, the Thief and the Bears series, Inch and Grub, and sci-fi smash hit, Orion Lost, stops by the clubhouse to talk about his stories.
Alastair and I chatted about how writing puzzles helped Alastair with plots, telling stories inspired by his own daughters, and finding sci-fi books that came from a love of Dr Who and Star Trek.
We also talk about the Giving Tree - A charitable initiative run through Blackwell's in Edinburgh looking to gift children in need a book this christmas.
Find link to it here: https://www.facebook.com/EdinburghGivingTree
Alastair was so fantastic to have on the show and we are super grateful he was able to join us on the show.
Enjoy!
COMPETITION
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a signed copy of Orion Lost, then head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub.
Send us a tweet using the hashtag #OrionComp and tag the somebody who'd you want to be your 2nd in command on your spaceship.
(UK residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 4th December.
Hey, hey, hey!
Welcome to our new podcast segment.
We're calling it our MID-WEEK REVIEW!!! .... you know, because it's a book review... in the middle of the week? 😂📚🎙🎧
Each week, we're going to be reviewing a Middle Grade or Young Adult novel and giving you the scoop on whether it's any good!
Our rating system is out of 5 stars with the following categories being looked at:
- Plot
- Pacing
- Characters
- Style
- Setting
All the catergories are ranked from five, added together and divided by 5 to give a final rating!
This week's episode features:
The Last Kids on Earth by Max Brallier (Illustrated by Douglas Holgate)
Publisher: Egmont (UK) / Penguin (US)
Age Range: 7 - 11 middle grade
Genre(s): Action/Adventure + Sci-Fi
Page Count: 225
Star Rating: 4.6⭐(out of 5)
For fans of: 13 Story Treehouse (Andy Griffiths& Terry Denton) / Knights and Bikes (Gabrielle Kent & Rex Crowle)
Hey, hey, hey!
It’s a new month so I’m joined by Rab (@rabtales) and Emma (@emmakeane10) as we storm the barricades of Young Adult and Middle Grade fiction in this our REVOLUTION themed episode. We talk about rebellion in books, how bookish rebellions can open our eyes to real revolutions in our world today, and finding freedom fighters that are as diverse as we all our.
Books talked about in this episode:
Divergent by Veronica Roth (YA)
The Last Human by Lee Bacon (MG)
Dangerous Remedy by Kat Dunn (YA)
Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins (YA)
Maze Runner by James Dashner (YA)
Fawkes by Nadine Brandes (YA)
We also want to give a big shout out to:
Onwe Press - https://www.onwe.co/
Black Lives Matter - https://blacklivesmatter.com/
Campaign Against Climate Change - https://www.campaigncc.org/
So sit back, relax, and get lost in a good book-ish podcast
Follow us on Twitter: @Bigkidsbookclub
Hey hey hey!
Welcome back to this week’s episode of the Big Kids Book Club.
In this episode, Guy Bass, author of over 30 books, including the Spyosaur, Stitchhead, Skeleton Keys, and Dinkin Dings series stops by the clubhouse to talk about his books.
Guy and I talk about how drama school influenced his writing, the fun you have writing heroes and monsters (with a little bit of alien thrown in) and how narrating his books allows him to connect through lockdown.
Guy was an amazing guest and we are super grateful he was able to join us on the show.
Enjoy!
COMPETITION
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a signed copy of Skeleton Keys: The Unimaginary Friend, then head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub.
Send us a tweet using the hashtag #SkeletonComp and tell us what imaginary friend you would like to have (or maybe did?)
(UK residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 27th November.
Hey hey hey!
Welcome back to this week’s episode of the Big Kids Book Club.
In this episode, J.M.Lee, author of The Dark Crystal Prequel YA novel series and upcoming The Nightland Express (Erewhon, March 2021) joins us to talk about his writing career to date.
Joe and I talk about entering writing competitions on a whim, writing in Hollywood for huge multi-format projects, and finally taking road trips as part of historic research for his new book.
Joe was an amazing guest and we are super grateful he was able to join us on the show.
Enjoy!
COMPETITION
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a signed copy of J.M.Lee’s Shadows of the Dark Crystal, then head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub.
Send us a tweet using the hashtag #ShadowsComp and tell us what fantastical world you’d like to visit. It could be Thra or some other world?
(US residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 20th November.
Hey hey hey!
Welcome back to this week's episode of the Big Kids Book Club.
In this episode, Tom Palmer, author of over 30+ books including Roy of the Rovers, Football Academy, and many historical fiction novels, joins us in the clubhouse to talk about his journey as a children's author.
Tom and I talk about finding ways to read growing up, learning to write stories with confidence, and running school visits online in the current covid climate.
Tom was an amazing guest and we are super grateful he was able to join us on the show.
Enjoy!
COMPETITION
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a signed copy of Tom's latest novel, After the War, then head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub.
Send us a tweet using the hashtag #AftertheWarComp and tell us your peaceful place. It could be a specific or general place.
(UK residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 13th November.
It’s a new month so I’m joined by Rab (@rabtales) and Emma (@emmakeane10) for a spooktacular Halloween episode that looks at all things horror and spooky-kooky in middle grade and young adult. Includes guest appearances by Dracula, Frankenstein, and a spooky ghost.
Books talked about in this episode:
Something Wicked this Way Comes by Ray Bradbury
Coraline by Neil Gaiman
Skullduggery Pleasant by Derek Landy
Carrie by Stephen King
The Monsters of Rookhaven by Padraig Kenny
Potkins and Stubbs by Sophie Green
So sit back, relax, and get lost in a good book-ish podcast
Follow us on Twitter: @Bigkidsbookclub
Hey hey hey!
Welcome back to this week’s episode of the Big Kids Book Club.
In this episode, M.G.Leonard & Sam Sedgman, author of the Adventures on Trains Series join us in the clubhouse to talk about their journey working together as children authors.
We chat about visiting the national railway museum https://www.railwaymuseum.org.uk/ , creating real journeys through characters and research, the twist of mysteries, and their shortlist for the ‘Books are my Bag Awards’ – you can vote for the Highland Falcon Thief here: https://www.nationalbooktokens.com/vote
Maya and Sam were fantastic guests and we are super grateful they were able to join us on the show.
Enjoy!
COMPETITION
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a signed copy of Highland Falcon Thief, head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub.
Send us a tweet using the hashtag #AOTComp and tell us a Fantasy or Sci-Fi train journey you’d like to go on?
(UK residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 30th October and the winner will be contacted on the 31st.
Hey hey hey!
Welcome back to this week's episode of the Big Kids Book Club.
This episode, Vashti Hardy, author of Brightstorm Series and the Blue Peter award-winning Wildspark, joins us in the clubhouse to talk about her journey as a children's author.
Vashti and I catch up on writing stories that create a spark of adventure, winning the award of a lifetime, and sneaking in creative writing journals into every lesson!
Vashti was an amazing guest and we are super grateful she was able to join us on the show.
Enjoy!
COMPETITION
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a signed copy of Vashti's award-winning novel, Wildspark, then head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub.
Send us a tweet using the hashtag #WildsparkComp as tell us your favourite animal/personifate (Made up animals are accepted!)
(UK residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 23rd October and the winner will be contacted on the 24th.
Hey hey hey!
Welcome back to this week's episode of the Big Kids Book Club.
This episode, Jemma Hatt, author of Adventurers series joins us in the clubhouse to talk about her journey as a children's author.
Jemma talks about how family holidays growing up gave her the inspiration for her books, as well as working with a German publisher while not speaking a word of German!
Jemma was a fantastic guest and we are super grateful she was able to join us on the show.
Enjoy!
COMPETITION
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a signed copy of Jemma's 1st novel, The Adventurers and the Cursed Castle, then head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub.
Send us a tweet using the hashtag #AdventurersComp as well as tag THREE friends who you'd like to on an adventure with.
(UK residents only - sorry)
The competition closes midnight on 16th October and the winner will be contacted on the 17th.
Hey hey hey!
Welcome back to this week's episode of the Big Kids Book Club.
This episode, Dan Walker, author of Sky Thieves and Light Hunters joins us in the clubhouse to talk about his journey as a children's author.
Dan talks about his experiences, including his near-misses and struggles early on in his writing career to his new work and narrating his 1st audiobook
Dan was so much fun and we were very grateful to have him on the show.
Enjoy!
COMPETITION
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a signed copy of Dan's book Light Hunters, head over to Twitter and find us @BigKidsBookClub.
Send us a message with the hashtag #SquadJunoComp, and include into it your favourite monster! It could be fictional or real, but the scarier the better.
(UK residents only - sorry)
The competition closes midnight on 9th October and the winner will be contacted on the 10th.
So as we seemed to have talked a bunch this month, we return to the 2nd half of our monthly podcast session!
We continue with myself, Rab (@rabtales) and Emma (@emmakeane10) as we recount our “Back to School” reads and books we're looking forward to reading (or have already read in Rab's case!)
Books talked about in this episode:
I’d tell you I love you, but then I’d have to kill you by Allie Carter (Real Name - Sarah Leigh Fogleman)
Skellig by David Almond
Kid Normal by Greg James and Chris Smith
A Dangerous Game by Malorie Blackman
The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas
Dear Martin by Nic Stone
The Vanishing Stairs by Maureen Johnson
So sit back, relax, and get lost in a good book-ish podcast
Follow us on Twitter: @Bigkidsbookclub
It’s a new month so I’m rejoined alongside Rab (@rabtales) and Emma (@emmakeane10) looking at our favourite “Back to School” reads and taking some time to ponder about why School-based stories are so numerous and captivate us.
Books talked about in this episode:
The Worst Witch by Jill Murphy
Animorphs by K. A. Applegate
The Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky
Aurora Rising by Amie Kaufman and Jay Kristoff
So sit back, relax, and get lost in a good book-ish podcast
Follow us on Twitter: @Bigkidsbookclub
Hey hey hey!
Welcome back to this week's episode of the Big Kids Book Club.
This episode, Thomas Taylor, author of Malamander and Gargantis joins us in the clubhouse to talk about his journey from children's book illustrator to middle-grade maestro.
Thomas talks about his experiences, including almost giving up writing to find his inspiration wash up ashore while walking his dog on the beach.
Thomas was a fantastic guest and had some great insights to share and explore.
Enjoy!
COMPETITION
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a signed copy of Thomas' book Malamander, then head off to Twitter and find us @BigKidsBookClub.
There you can find our competition post which you'll need to Like and Retweet with the hashtag #MalamanderComp as well as tag THREE friends who you'd like to spend the day at the seaside with.
(UK residents only - sorry)
The competition closes midnight on 17th September and Winner will be announced on the 18th.
This month we trial a new format as I'm joined alongside Rab (@rabtales) and Emma (@emmakeane10) as we talk about what makes a Summer Read as well as talk about some of the books we've been reading recently and looking forward to reading.
Books discussed in this episode:
Warm Bodies by Isaac Marion
Dry by Jarrod and Neal Schusterman
Malamander by Thomas Taylor
The Pearl in the Ice by Cathryn Constable
Breathless by Jennifer Niven
All the Bright Places by Jennifer Niven
Holding up the Universe by Jennifer Niven
Traitor to the Throne by Alwyn Hamilton (Part of the Rebel of the Sands Trilogy)
So put your feet up, throw on some shades and pour yourself a cocktail as we dive into the Summer reading vibes.
Our next Big Club Book Club will return in September.