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What if the definition of Home extended beyond walls and roofs to embrace connection to nature and each other? We explore this question with Newbery medalist Matt de la Peña, author of beloved books like Last Stop on Market Street and Carmela Full of Wishes. Matt opens up about his creative process and how real-life experiences influence his writing.

Matt shares how personal anecdotes find their way into his work (think Patchwork with Corrina Luyken). Student questions lead us to explore how the universal magic of picture books can captivate everyone from preschoolers to adults.

We deep dive into Love to Home (with Loren Long). Recent events like the fires in Los Angeles or the pandemic can act as disruptors, prompting a reevaluation of what truly constitutes a home. We talk about ways the writing process can take unexpected turns that lead to fresh discoveries and themes like reconnecting with nature. We also explore the themes of identity and resilience, especially for those standing on society's fringes.

Chapters:

• 1:05: Inspiration and Writing for Audiences of All Ages
• 2:21: Patchworkand autobiographical seasonings
• 5:16: Carmela Full of Wishesinspiration and a love letter to the Mexican side of Matt's identity
• 7:22: From Love to Home
• 15:14: What is Home?
• 21:41: Challenges to books and conversations
• 28:20: On the outside looking in: seeing things from a different perspective
• 31:48: Matt gives us a sneak peek at Home
• 37:28: Finding hope in challenging times

Links:

• Matt De La Pena's Website
• Purchase Matt's books
• Connect with Matt on Instagram, Facebook, and BlueSky

Support the show

Subscribe & Follow: Stay updated with our latest episodes and follow us on Instagram, LinkedIn, and the Adventures in Learning website. Don't forget to subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts!

*Disclosure: I am a Bookshop.org. affiliate.

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What do starry nebula, Bruce Lee, and disgustingly cool science facts have in common? They are all products of the creative mind of author Teresa Robeson.

In this episode, we welcome back Teresa Robeson, a busy author with a rich background in science and storytelling. Teresa unveils her upcoming books, including Clear and Bright: A Ching Ming Festival Story; Disgustology: The Science of Gross; and a graphic biography, Who Smashed Hollywood Barriers with Gung Fu?: Bruce Lee.

Teresa shares insights into the art of storytelling through visuals and the collaborative process of bringing science and historical moments to life. Our discussion ventures into the mesmerizing realms of astronomy and science literature, with highlights from NASA's stunning imagery that fueled her recent book, Clouds in Space: Nebulae, Stardust, and Us.

We also delve into the importance of diverse narratives, cultural acceptance, and the role of literature in building empathy. Plus there's a fun lightning fill in the break taken from listener questions (What language does Teresa speak to her chickens? What are the most disgusting facts she hasn't written about yet?) This episode celebrates diverse narratives, cultural tales, building our empathy muscles, and the transformative power of storytelling.

Timestamps and Chapters:

1:13- Bruce Lee and Clear and Bright

15:13: Smithsonian honors, Clouds in Space, and Quirky Science Storytelling in Disgustology

20:13: Lightning Fill in the Blank

26:03: Building Our Empathy Muscles Through Diverse Children's Literature

32:37: Finding Hope in Empathy and Youth

Links:

• Teresa Robeson's Website: https://www.teresarobeson.com
• Teresa's previous appearance on the Adventures in Learning podcast
• Follow Teresa Robeson on Instagram, LinkedIn, and BlueSky

Connect with Us:

Follow us on Substack and Instagram for updates and behind-the-scenes content.

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If you enjoyed this episode, please consider leaving a review on your favorite podcast platform and sharing it with your friends. Your support helps us bring more inspiring content to you!

Support the show

Subscribe & Follow: Stay updated with our latest episodes and follow us on Instagram, LinkedIn, and the Adventures in Learning website. Don't forget to subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts!

*Disclosure: I am a Bookshop.org. affiliate.

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How do we make science engaging and relevant for students? And why is science literacy more important than ever for how we all live and work? Join Dr. Diane for a thoughtful and fascinating discussion with Ali Stone, the dynamic Chief Operating Officer of Kesler Science.

Join us as we explore Ali's inspiring journey from teaching to innovation and learn how creativity and hands-on learning can spark a lifelong passion for science.

Chapters with Timestamps:

1:02: Why are Science AND Science Literacy So Important?

9:02: Ali's Adventures in Learning -- from Science Teacher to COO

22:08: Empowering Teachers with Creative Science Strategies

30:30: Fostering Curiosity and Playful Learning

36:52: The Power of Hope and Human Adaptability

Links:

• Connect with Ali Stone on LinkedIn
• Explore the Kesler Science resources
• Follow Kesler Science on Instagram and Facebook
• Listen to the Adventures in Learning podcast episodes featuring Chris Kesler and Steve Spangler

Support the show

Subscribe & Follow: Stay updated with our latest episodes and follow us on Instagram, LinkedIn, and the Adventures in Learning website. Don't forget to subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts!

*Disclosure: I am a Bookshop.org. affiliate.