E Train Talks

In honor of NATIONAL LIBRARY WEEK, it's time to share my chat with the librarian everybody knows and loves, Mychal Threets! Mychal's is an amazing literacy hero who's library joy and kindness have warms the hearts and inspires millions of people all over the Globe! He's kindness has become contagious and he's currently reached over 1.5 million followers on his combined social media platforms. Mychal shares heartwarming tales of library kids and adults he's met & even plans to go in front of the Supreme Court to defend libraries (which I know he will make happen!). Mychal is doing everything in his power to share his love of stories and proving that love is contagious, he's motivated thousands to reconnect with their public libraries! I am honored to share my interview with Mychal and I know that one day we will be reading stories all about the library joy Mychal Threets spread and all he's done, and will do, for good. He's making library joy a beautiful reality! Be sure to watch our interview to learn more, and check out all the important work he's doing too! You can find out more or follow Mychal's journey here: Mychal's Twitter: https://twitter.com/mychal3ts Mychal's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mychal3ts/ Mychal's TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mychal3ts

In MAX IN THE HOUSE OF SPIES, historical fiction just reached a new level with author Adam Gidwitz’s latest, and I dare say, best book ever! Max’s life changes forever after the Nazis take over his home country of Germany, and he's forced to leave his family in a rescue Kindertransport to the UK. You'd think that was enough for one kid to endure, but Max finds himself in an entirely new action packed adventure. He's about to embark on a secret mission to rescue those he left behind! MAX IN THE HOUSE OF SPIES tackles deep and important topics, but also weaves in silly, yet poignant humor in this middle-grade masterpiece. Watch my book review of the New York Times Bestseller, MAX IN THE HOUSE OF SPIES! And be sure to check out my interview with the author, Adam Gidwitz arriving in the coming weeks!

COYOTE LOST AND FOUND is a one of a kind, genuine, heartfelt and compelling read. Author Dan Gemeinhart perfectly encapsulates many of the feelings that can come and go when we experiences loss. Grief is ever changing, no one person feels the same way, and we learn this lesson along with so many more in Coyote's *hopefully not last* journey! A beautifully written companion to the REMARKABLE JOURNEY OF COYOTE SUNRISE, Dan's newest story LOST AND FOUND gets real in ways most middle-grade books don't. I guarantee you will love Dan Gemeinhart's latest and greatest book, I know I did. A 5 "Bright" Star Review!

Today’s guest has been on my bucket list for a long time, he's an absolute legend in the book world and a storytelling hero to kids all over the globe, I’m talking about the incredible MAX BRALLIER. Max is the #1 New York Times, USA Today, and Wall Street Journal bestselling author of more than fifty books, including the renowned middle-grade series The Last Kids on Earth which, cool fact, has 10 MILLION copies in print! Max's newest fun filled & outrageous book THE LAST COMICS ON EARTH: TOO MANY VILLAINS!! I had so much fun talking to Max. He's a one of a kind witty, silly, and kind person, and I can't wait for you to watch our book chat! You can follow Max Brallier on social media and on his website at: www.maxbrallier.com

Award-winning author Katherine Marsh’s “MEDUSA, THE MYTH OF MONSTERS,” is a truly phenomenal adventure read! I was on the edge of my seat, actively trying to figure o author’s plot twists, exciting moments, and endless adventures in MEDUSA! Whether you’re a mythology fan like me, or just love to dig into a really good fantasy read, MEDUSA, THE MYTH OF MONSTERS, is one fantastical, mythological page-turning middle-grade books you don’t want to miss out on! And, I’m really hoping for a book 2 (hint hint)! Follow Katherine Marsh's writing journey here: https://katherinemarsh.com

One of my all-time favorite interviews! Chris Baron has always supported my literacy journey and I knew I would love chatting with him! A skillful and accomplished poet and author, who has the remarkable gift of writing about sensitive, meaningful and oftentimes painful middle-school topics, in a way that brings comfort and understanding to everyone who reads his stories. I’m so proud to share my talk with the incredible Chris Baron, a lyrical writer and multi-award winning-author, and a Jewish storyteller I’ve admired since reading his first novel-in-verse ALL OF ME, the one and only, Author Chris Baron. Follow author Chris Baron's journey at: www.chris-baron.com

These are my bookish thoughts on #FAMOUS, a recently released and groundbreaking Young Adult (YA) novel by author Jilly Gagnon. A story that touches upon the virality and the unexpectedness, the pros and cons, and the crazy adventures that can occur from even the smallest and most innocent online acts. One picture, one post, and one call that will change the lives of two unsuspecting teens, who seem anything but the same, yet soon discover it might just be the opposite. #FAMOUS is so timely and relevant! It’s easily become one of my all-time favorites! Gagnon not just tackles the subject of internet safety, but also the story of love from unlikely people and places. #FAMOUS is a perfect TEN. A fast-paced, can’t put this book down sort of read! Follow Jilly Gagnon’s writing journey at: www.jillygagnon.com Thanks for watching my book review of #FAMOUS! If you enjoyed this video, I hope you’ll support my efforts and give it a LIKE and SUBSCRIBE to my YouTube Channel! Follow me at: www.etraintalks.com #bookreview #podcast #newepisode #etraintalks #booktok #library #romance #romcom #literacyadvocate

AND THEN, BOOM! Author Lisa Fipps' newest middle-grade novel-in-verse is a must read! I am the biggest STARFISH fan, and when I heard the wonderful Lisa Fipps had a new story coming out I was so excited! And THEN, when I was lucky enough to be gifted an ARC (advanced readers copy) by the amazing author herself, I immediately sat down and read AND THEN, BOOM! from cover to cover in one sitting! And all I can say, is that Lisa's second novel-in-verse is a home run! A 10/10! A compelling & moving story that will warm your heart. AND THEN, BOOM is a heart wrenching & heartwarming powerful tale that will stay with you always. Available May 7, 2024. To find out more about AND THEN, BOOM!, a truly thought-provoking and powerful read, be sure to watch my book review!

THE MONA LISA VANISHES: A LEGENDARY PAINTER, A SHOCKING HEIST, AND THE BIRTH OF A GLOBAL CELEBRITY (that’s a mouthful) by author Nicholas Day is a remarkably entertaining & highly informative read! Told like a page-turning mystery fiction read, yet packed with perplexing & interesting historical facts. THE MONA LISA VANISHES is perfect for curious middle-grade readers intrigued by historical events, as well as for those who are drawn to action & excitement! Finding a story perfect for all kinds of book lovers is like searching for a needle in a haystack, but author Nicholas Day & illustrator Brett Helquist did a truly brilliant job at crafting a book to fit all reading sizes! Hats off to you! Thanks for watching my book review! If you enjoyed this video, please give it a like & subscribe to my channel. Thanks! Follow my reading journey on social media and on my website at: www.etraintalks.com

Once in a while a book comes out that opens minds and helps readers look at the world in a whole new way! That’s exactly what the incredible author and Editor Sandra Proudman has done with Relit! A collection of sixteen creative and unique stories by award-winning and bestselling YA Latinx authors, including some of my all-time favorite storytellers. Relit is powerful anthology of 16 re-told tales that puts futuristic and current twists on classic tales! Out on February 6th, RELIT is sure to keep upper middle-grade and YA readers enchanted and entertained. An absolute must-read! Featuring original stories from: • Olivia Abtahi • David Bowles • Zoraida Córdova • Saraciea J. Fennell • Raquel Vasquez Gilliland • Torrey Maldonado • Jasminne Mendez • Anna Meriano • Amparo Ortiz • Laura Pohl • Sandra Proudman • NoNieqa Ramos • Monica Sanz • Eric Smith • Ari Tison • Alexandra Villasante Thanks for watching my book review of RELIT! If you enjoyed this video, please give it a "LIKE" and "SUBSCRIBE" to my channel. You can also follow my reading journey on my website at: www.etraintalks.com

I’m excited to share my talk with picture book author Gabrielle Balkan! As a fan of all things history & trivia, I’ve always devoured non-fiction and fact driven stories, and Gabrielle is a master of the art of writing fascinating, informational, and highly entertaining stoires! Here’s some more about Gabrielle to get you excited to watch our interview! Gabrielle is best known for her non-fiction books that delight young readers with curious and essential facts about the United States, animal record-breakers, and so much more! A sample of Gabrielle’s books include, WHAT A MAP CAN DO, all about the wonders and importance of maps. GEORGIA O’KEEFE, SHE SAW THE WORLD IN A FLOWER, a beautiful picture book biography about the life and art of Georgia O’Keefe. Check out Gabrielle Balkan’s website to learn more: http://www.gabriellebalkan.com/

Thanks for watching my interview with Author Gabrielle Balkan. If you enjoyed this video, please be sure to give it a like, and subscribe to my YouTube channel! Thanks!

Award-winning Author Ruth Behar has given the world yet another deeply moving and heartwarming historical fiction middle-grade novel, ACROSS SO MANY SEAS, a beloved Jewish-themed book that shares the message of hope. While the present maybe scary, Ruth’s story reminds us that when we band together, stand together, and speak up together, we can make sure history doesn’t repeat itself. There is always hope in the rubble, we just have to find it. Thank you for writing such important and meaningful stories Ruth! I was fortunate enough to review an advanced readers copy of ACROSSS SO MANY SEAS, but you can grab your own copy of this 10/10 read in early February 2024. Published by Nancy Paulsen Books Expect on the shelves on February 6, 2024 If you liked this book review, please give it a like and subscribe to my YouTube Channel. You can also follow my reading journey at: www.etraintalks.com

I'm the biggest trivia buff when it comes to all things American history so interviewing former white house speech writer turned middle-grade author Sean O'Brien was such a huge treat! Author Sean O'Brien is a former speech writer for the White House, Secretary of Defense, and the Secretary of the Navy, so it's no wonder just how much interesting knowledge and know-how Sean was able to incorporate into his action packed and adventuress debut middle-grade novel, WHITE HOUSE CLUBHOUSE! Sean captures readers with his understanding of the ins and outs of White house life, combined with his vast knowledge of history, and his incredible ability to craft a relatable children's novel that keeps you on your toes! I know the world is going to love Sean’s books! Watch my interview with Author Sean O'Brien and learn more! You can learn more about Sean on his website: www.seanobrienbooks.com Thanks for watching my interview with Sean O'Brien. If you enjoyed this video please give it a like and subscribe to my YouTube Channel! Follow me on social media or at www.etraintalks.com

Wow! What a fantastic interview, I learned so much for the wonderful middle-grade author Christina Soontornvat! From writing techniques, to deep dives into hot kid lit topics & so much more! Did you know Christina set out to be a scientist before becoming an author, and it was science which sparked a love of writing? You'll learn about that and a whole lot more in my chat with THREE-time Newbery Honoree, the writer behind THE LAST MAPMAKER, THE TRYOUT & ALL THIRTEEN, Christina Soontornvat!!

Welcome to my very first youth author panel discussion. In this video you'll meet Six amazing young writers who have taken their dream of becoming a published author and made it a reality! Six phenomenal youth who have something to say! From topics of kindness, to love and empowerment, to fairy chronicle adventures, to technology and finding one's passion, to even a mystery story, and last, but not least, a kid scientist! It was so inspiring talking to these six change makers! Not only have they written awesome reads, but they share tips for all of you aspiring authors about the publishing process and scheduling! Tips & Novels, what more can you ask for?! I'm so excited to share their stories with you! Be sure to find yourself a copy of all of their books, you won't regret it! It's time to go write your own story, follow your dreams! Thanks for watching my youth author panel. If you enjoyed this video, please give it a like and subscribe to my channel. You can also follow my journey at www.etraintalks.com

The 11th book in the SPY SCHOOL series by Stuart Gibbs, SPY SCHOOL GOES NORTH certainly did NOT disappoint. Full of twists and turns, epic adventures, and lots more! I guarantee you will love Stuart's latest and greatest read! 10/10!

Listen to my book review to learn more!

I know I’m a little late to the party, but WOW…THE MIDNIGHT CHILDREN is yet another masterfully crafted middle-grade tale by author Dan Gemeinhart. True to form, Dan once again draws readers into his story by crafting touching, heartwarming and relatable characters. THE MIDNIGHT CHILDREN is a soulful read that connects with us deeply, giving readers a wonderfully memorable middle grade reading escape. Dan’s stories evoke some of the most powerful feelings I’ve felt in kidlit! I can’t recommend THE MIDNIGHT CHILDREN enough. I’m so glad I read it, and if you’ve yet to read Dan’s stories, I’d say the time has come! 10 out of 10! Follow Dan's book journey at: http://dangemeinhart.com/index.html Hope you grab your own copy of THE MIDNIGHT CHILDREN or locate a copy of at your nearest library at: https://worldcat.org/ Thank you for watching my book review. If you enjoyed this video, please give it a like & subscribe to my channel! Follow my journey at www.etraintalks.com

In this video, I'm speaking with news anchor, reporter, and amazing Good Day Sacramento TV Host, the one and only, mischievous scamp, Cody Stark! Cody has done it all, he’s traveled across the country, read the HITCHHIKER'S GUIDE TO THE GALAXY about 100 times…maybe even more… and brings a smile to the people of Sacramento on a daily basis! Not only that, but Cody has been a huge supporter of my literacy journey! Cody has opened up so many doors for me throughout my book journey, from inviting me to share a Hanukkah reading on the air with The Mensch on The Bench, to giving me my own Good Day Sacramento book review segment And now, here I am interviewing him in the amazing Good Day TV studio! I’m so glad I get to share Cody’s story with all of you! Seriously, if you’ve never watched his segments on TV then you are missing out on what I call, “peak cinema!” You can follow Cody's journey on social media, YouTube, and of course, weekly on Good Day Sacramento on CBS! Thanks for watching my talk with Cody Stark! If you enjoyed this video, please give it a like & subscribe to my channel! You can also follow me on www.etraintalks.com

My author guest, Lindsey Leigh really knows her stuff when it comes to science, writing, and even art! Her stories combine fascinating and curious facts, with the bonus of bold, fun and engaging art! She's the well known creator of amazing and interesting science-based comics and she’s recently come out with a new children's book, THE DEEP! WILD LIFE AT THE OCEAN’S DARKEST DEPTHS! Lindsey has some new middle-grade stories on the horizon, and you'll learn about those and lots more when you watch MY INTERVIEW WITH LINDSEY LEIGH! Find out more about Lindsey right here: https://www.lindseyleighart.com/about Locate THE DEEP! WILD LIFE AT THE OCEAN’S DARKEST DEPTHS at your nearest library here: https://www.worldcat.org/title/1346847282 Thanks for watching my interview with Lindsey Leigh! If you enjoyed this video, please give it a like and subscribe to my channel! Thanks! Follow me at: www.etraintalks.com

Dungeons and Dragons meets Super Mario Brothers in SPELLBINDERS; THE NOT SO CHOSEN ONE! I had such an epic time chatting with middle-grade author & all around cool guy, Andrew Auseon! Andrew is not just a writer, but a video game developer, an active member of the middle-grade book community, and a gamer! Not to mention, Andrew is on his way to becoming a middle-grade story-writing legend! Watch our talk & find out why! And, be sure to find a copy of Andrew's newest read, SPELLBINDERS; THE NOT SO CHOSEN ONE! Don't forget to leave a like and subscribe for more author interviews! Follow Andrew Auseon's writing journey at: www.andrewauseon.com Thanks for watching!

Coretta Scott King Award-Winning Author, Sharon G. Flake's writing has made a huge impact on young adult and middle-grade literature and her newest middle-grade novel-in-verse story, ONCE IN A BLUE MOON is no different! Sharon's books have touched the hearts and opened the minds of readers from around the world, and not only that, her books address important social issues that both inspire and educate readers. From Sharon's award winning read, THE SKIN I'M IN, to her latest work of masterful middle-grade historical fiction, ONCE IN A BLUE MOON, Sharon Flake empowers the voices of young black kids and readers off all backgrounds! Her words inspire growth and spark courage in the hearts of her readers. Years after her first published story, Sharon is still impacting the lives of book lovers all over the globe! A kind human and an award-winning author, Sharon G. Flake is one of my favorite & sweetest guests I've had the honor of talking to on E Train Talks! Find out more about Sharon's books at: www.sharongflake.com Thanks for watching my interview with the incredible author Sharon G. Flake. I hope you enjoyed this video, please give it a like and subscribe to my YouTube channel! Follow my journey at www.etraintalks.com

Nick Brooks has a STORY to tell and he's sharing it on E Train Talks! From writing books with strong lovable characters, to speaking from the heart in his incredible short films, to channeling his feelings into his hip hop tunes, Nick has done it ALL!! He is an inspiration, he is PROOF that if you work hard, you can do anything! Nick's books are so special and deserve all the praise in the world. Nick's first middle-grade work of fiction, NOTHING INTERESTING EVER HAPPENS TO ETHAN FAIRMONT is an epic out of this world tale, with a curious protagonist, a hidden alien, and meaningful life lessons woven into this spectacular story! His Young Adult debut PROMISE BOYS is a thrilling story of three boys, all prime suspects in a school related murder. There's betrayal, friendship, drama, and much more, all packed into this mystery masterpiece! But don't take my word for it! Watch my interview with the man, the myth, and the legend, NICK BROOKS! Thanks for watching my interview with Nick Brooks. You can follow Nick's journey at: www.thenickbrooks.com If you enjoyed this video, please give it a like and subscribe to my channel!

With a dash of adventure, a pinch of magic & a whole lot of faeries, my guest, author Holly Black creates the perfect fantastical stories! Having sold over 29 million copies of her books, Holly Black is a story writing icon across the globe! From YA fantasy, to middle-grade adventure & spooky chronicles, Holly's magical reads are fan favorites in the YA world & I've become a fan myself! Holly shares writing advice, the story behind her beautiful cover art & tid-bits of many of her amazing books in our engaging discussion! What are you waiting for? Watch my interview with the sensational writer & #1 NYT Bestseller, HOLLY BLACK! Follow Holly Black's writing journey at: www.blackholly.com P.S. Don't forget to leave a like & subscribe for more interviews!

IT HAPPENED ON SATURDAY is a powerful & poignant middle-grade book by author Sydney Dunlap. From the first words on the very first page, to the last compelling sentence in this important story, I was hooked. The characters are well developed and relatable, and IT HAPPENED ON SATURDAY is so well crafted and captivating. Sydney did a wonderful job interweaving such an important topic, human trafficking, into her meaningful and empathetic read. Thank you for watching my book review. If you enjoyed this book review, please follow my podcast for more.

I was so excited to sit down virtually with the famous "Shib Sibs," Maia and Alex Shibutani, Olympic Bronze Medalists, three-time World Medalists and authors! Their newest diverse picture book, AMAZING shares the stories of Asian American and Pacific Islander heroes that have demonstrated great courage, innovation, creativity, and more! Listen to my interview and learn more about the Shib Sibs' remarkable skating & writing journey, as well as see why you'll want to read their wonderful picture book, AMAZlNG! If you enjoyed this interview, please follow my podcast for more. Thanks!

Today we are celebrating Juneteenth with my very special guest, Alliah L. Agostini, author of the powerful picture book, THE JUNETEENTH STORY: CELEBRATING THE END OF SLAVERY IN THE UNITES STATES! I invite you to watch, learn and celebrate with us, as we honor the holiday Juneteenth! But wait, there's more! In my interview with Alliah, we'll also be discussing her inspirational writing journey & books, from THE JUNETEENTH STORY to BIG TUNE: RISE OF THE DANCEHALL PRICE, and her upcoming Little Golden Book about Oprah Winfrey! There's so much to learn from author Alliah L. Agostini! Come celebrate and open your heart & mind with us! Alliah's work has been featured on CNN, the TODAY Show, GoodHouseKeeping, and more. You can follow Alliah's journey on social media and on her website at: www.alliahagostini.com Thanks for watching! If you enjoyed this video don't forget to leave a like and subscribe to my YouTube Channel to keep up-to-date on my newest interviews and book reviews! Thanks, E Train

When a copy of the highly anticipated THE SUN AND THE STAR, a spinoff of PERCY JACKSON arrived at my doorstep, I leaped for joy & devoured the book immediately! Rick Riordan & Mark Oshiro are the perfect duo! There's heart, adventure, and so much more inside of THE SUN AND THE STAR! I promise you that you won't want to put this book down!

There were so many themes woven into this LGBTQ+ book, but my favorite has to be togetherness. Here's just a little sneak peek. The team of Will Solace and Nico Di Angelo discover just how powerful and important love is!

10/10, you need to read Rick & Mark's middle-grade masterpiece!

Author Michael Leali is truly a one-of-a-kind award-winning middle-grade author. His books are full of heart, LGBTQ+ themes, and acceptance, and his stories are windows and mirrors into the lives of kids/tweens/teens struggling with their sometimes complicated & confusing feelings for others. Michael's profound and meaningful stories are among some of my favorite reads. I'm so happy to share my interview with Michael, watch and learn more about his writing journey. Follow Michael Leali on social media and at: www.michaelleali.com *If you enjoyed this video, please give it a "like" and subscribe to my channel. Thanks for watching!

It was such an honor to receive an advanced readers copy of “MUZOON: A SYRIAN REFUGEE SPEAKS OUT,” by author & activist Muzoon Almellehan & co-authored by professor Wendy Pearlman. In this incredible true story, Muzoon documents her riveting journey from being a 14 year old Syrian refugee, to advocating for young women & education, to becoming the youngest Goodwill Ambassador for UNICEF. Out tomorrow, May 23, MUZOON: A SYRIAN REFUGEE SPEAKS OUT, is an inspiring read that teaches us it only takes one person, one voice, at any age, to spark change! Muzoon Almellehan is a true hero & I hope her story finds a home on all classroom & library shelves!

They say your second #book is the hardest to #write. I guess the amazing #MGLit mastermind @TPhillipsWriter didn’t get that memo. His second #story THE CURIOUS LEAGUE OF DETECTIVES AND THIEVES: SOS, is a thrilling ride! The same lovable protagonists John Boarhog & Toadius McGee are back at it in this EPIC #read

In this video I review New York Times best-selling Author Dan Gutman's entertaining novel, HOUDINI AND ME. And, like most of Dan Gutman’s engaging stories, HOUDINI AND ME captures the interest of even the most reluctant of readers! What's more?! Dan even includes a "Facts & Fictions" section at the end of the book, so for all of you trivia buffs like me, that's one more reason to love this fun filled adventurous read! 10/10 Great news! I'll be interviewing the AMAZING Dan Gutman on my YouTube channel, so be sure to watch our talk! Follow Dan Gutman's writing journey at www.dangutman.com Thanks so much for watching & If you enjoyed my book review, please like, share, and subscribe to my channel. Follow me at www.etraintalks.com

In this video I review the middle-grade masterpiece "Matteo," by author Michael Leali Matteo is truly a one-of-a-kind LGBTQ+ themed story, and a read like none other I’ve come across before! Overflowing with meaning, heart, and the deep-rooted message of acceptance, MATTEO is incredibly profound. I can’t wait for the world to read this beautiful book! A perfect 10 out of 10! If you like my book review be sure to like this video and subscribe to my YouTube Channel.

I had the honor of sitting down virtually with the award-winning writer of entertaining, suspenseful, and important historical fiction and non-fiction middle-grade novels, author Steve Sheinkin. Steve has lived a fascinating life, and it shows in his stories, filled with knowledge, interesting facts, and historical information, yet written in a way that keeps you wanting to read more! Readers learn without even trying! Listen in on our conversation and find out why Steve Sheinkin is one of my all time favorite writing and everything books heroes! Follow Steve's writing journey on social media and at: www.stevesheinkin.com/

In this episode of E Train Talks, I'm thrilled to be speaking with award-winning author Jay Hosler! Jay is an entomologist, bee-enthusiast, TED Talker, and award-winning author and illustrator of really cool and informative science-oriented comics and graphic novels! He's also a doctor of biological sciences, as well as a professor at Juniata College, but on top of all that, Jay is truly an all-around amazing person, full of enthusiasm and a love of teaching, writing, and sharing knowledge on all things bugs and biology!

In this interview, I talk everything Jewish-themed books with Joanne Levy, the award-winning author of many middle-grade novels for kids. Joanne has been a supporter of my reading journey from the beginning, so this interview is one extremely close to my heart! Watch & learn about literacy advocacy, how to fight antisemitism & more!  

Be sure to follow Joanne's writing journey at: www.joannelevy.com