Reading in The Middle

In Reading in the Middle, Annisha Jeffries interviews Sue Marasciulo about making reading accessible for children, especially those with dyslexia. Sue, a former special ed teacher and creator of decodable graphic novels, explains how her Pat & Pals series builds confidence and joy in reading through visual storytelling and structured literacy. The episode covers decodable texts, graphic novels, and rethinking access and engagement, offering insights for educators, librarians, caregivers, and anyone involved in literacy. Hosted by Annisha Jeffries, a librarian and children’s literature advocate.

What happens when kids who feel overlooked finally discover their power?In this episode of Reading in the Middle, Annisha sits down with Donna Galanti to discuss her middle-grade novel, The Secret Winners Club, a story about belonging, visible differences, bullying, and the true cost of winning.At the heart of the novel is Sunny, a girl with alopecia who joins a group of kids determined to rise above being underestimated. But as competition heats up—from swim team rivalries to social power struggles—the question shifts from how to win to what winning is really worth.Together, Annisha and Donna explore:Subtle and competitive forms of bullyingThe emotional drive of “beating your bullies.”Complex family dynamics, including single-parent households and the return of an absent fatherWhy middle grade is the perfect space for moral gray areasThis episode is for librarians, educators, caregivers, and anyone who believes middle-grade books face the biggest questions with the most honesty.✨ Listen, subscribe, and keep reading in the middle.Visit Donna on her website: donnagalanti.com

Annisha Jeffries interviews author Tulip Moody about her fantasy novel The Spell That Named Her, featuring a princess navigating rejection, hidden magic, mysterious dreams, and powerful forces shaping her destiny. A compelling conversation about courage, identity, and belonging for middle-grade readers, educators, and fantasy lovers.In this episode, We Discuss:The inspiration behind The Spell That Named HerBuilding a fantasy world rooted in emotion and identityThe role of dreams, magic, and destiny in the storyCreating complex allies and adversariesWriting a heroine searching for belongingWhy fantasy resonates with middle-grade readersVisit Tulip Moody at her website, Tulip Moody, and follow her journey as a storyteller

In this episode of Reading in the Middle, host Annisha talks with Bridgette Hickman, author of The HBCU Crew, about introducing young readers to Historically Black Colleges and Universities. They explore HBCU history, culture, and pride, discuss the characters Monet, Keni, and CJ, and examine why representation and empowerment matter in middle-grade books. A must-listen for librarians, educators, and families.

New York Times bestselling author James Ponti joins Annisha Jeffries on Reading in the Middle to discuss his latest City Spies novel, EUROPA. They explore puzzles, teamwork, leadership, and close reading, as well as how characters like Kat, Sydney, and Paris solve high-stakes mysteries. James also shares writing insights and takes on a fun lightning round. Learn more at www.jamesponti.com.

In this episode of Reading in the Middle, host Annisha Jeffries interviews middle-grade author Taryn Souders about her latest book, Secrets of the Broken House, as well as mysteries, memorable characters, and her creative process. Taryn discusses how she developed Tucker Stephens and the quirky town of Everson, where goats can run for mayor, and how a suspicious death draws three friends into a web of secrets. Annisha and Taryn examine how humor, heart, and curiosity blend in her stories and why middle-grade mysteries remain popular among young readers. They also talk about Taryn’s other favorite books, her writing journey, and offer advice for kids aspiring to be authors. This episode is ideal for librarians, educators, parents, and middle-grade fans who enjoy smart, engaging stories.📚 Featured BooksSecrets of the Broken HouseHow to Almost Ruin Your SummerCoop Knows the ScoopThe Mystery of the Radcliffe Riddle🎙️ In This Episode, You’ll Hear:How Taryn builds kid detectives and small-town mysteriesThe inspiration behind Secrets of the Broken HouseWhy flawed, funny, and curious characters matterHow she balances suspense with emotional depthWriting advice for young storytellers🌐 Author WebsiteLearn more about Taryn and her books at:www.tarynsouders.com🌟 About the AuthorTaryn Souders writes middle-grade novels filled with humor, heart, and clever mysteries. Her books explore friendship, community, and what happens when kids decide to ask big questions—and follow the clues.📢 Connect & SubscribeIf you enjoyed this episode:Subscribe to Reading in the MiddleLeave a reviewShare with a fellow reader

In this episode of Reading in the Middle, host Annisha Jeffries interviews New York Times bestselling author Judd Winick about his latest graphic novel, Hilo Presents: The Mighty. They discuss Miranda Luna’s adventure, superhero tales, humor blended with heartfelt moments, and how books assist children in managing intense emotions. The episode also includes a lively lightning round and some enthusiastic admiration for Judd’s early work. Ideal for librarians, educators, parents, and middle-grade readers.

Join host Annisha Jeffries for an engaging and lively interview with bestselling author Megan McDonald, known for creating the beloved Judy Moody series, the Stink spin-off, and the early-chapter-book Fairy Door Diaries. We explore: how Megan’s librarian background influences her storytelling, the enchantment behind Judy Moody’s moods and Stink’s adventures, and the inspiration and creation process of her latest caper-style series, Bunny and Clyde On the Lam (Book 2 of the Bunny & Clyde series, scheduled for release on February 3, 2026). Published by Candlewick Press