In truth this episode is about so much MORE than summer reading.
What memories do you have of your local library?
Who taught you to hold a book and how to read?
Think about the way you use reading, writing, listening and learning to engage with the world?
Would you like to more easily find books for your child/teen and help them fall in love with reading?
Have you ever wanted to just pick the librarian’s brain?

📚 This is your lucky day.
All this and summer reading today with my amazing sister, Hillary in episode 118.

Hillary Hall is a teacher librarian and a wealth of information when it comes to literacy and books—at least she is my go to when I have questions—and I have wanted to have her as a guest for a very long time. She is married to my brother, Cougar (who I interviewed in episode 45) and she works at her local middle school where she creates the library experience and curates the collection for over 1400 students + teachers.

I love the quote that Hillary paraphrased when she talked about literacy in our rising generation …

After you listen, you’ll want to check out these resources …

Once Upon a Book Club
Creating the ultimate reading experience that allows readers to fully integrate into a book by opening notes and small gifts specifically paired for particular parts of a story—AND—giving them a "Book Club" community, where they can log onto Instagram and discuss the book with other members each month. There is something magical about turning words of a book into an actual physical object. It's like bringing the book to life @onceuponabookclubbox on instagram

Owl Crate
Choose a 1, 3 or 6 month plan and then anticipate a new book, high quality book-ish items and special exclusives from the author. Each box has a creative theme that ties everything together. Such a great way to send the message to a young person that reading is a gift—it matters!

Fairy Loot
This monthly book subscription is for lovers of fantasy in particular—subscriptions are currently on hold (probably due to high demand) but, there is a waiting list. When your new book arrives you can also participate with online read-a-longs and hear special interviews with authors.

Novel List
Has been connecting readers, books and libraries for over 25 years—and their blog is full of ideas and additional resources to make the most of your reading. Did you know that June is Audio Books month?

If you’re deciding what to read next, you’ve likely heard of Good Reads because that’s what they do—give decidedly insightful recommendations and access to ongoing discussions around the books you’re curious about.

I LOVE the tagline at Common Sense Media—it says, “Reviews for what your kids are into (before they get into it!)” And they means books, TV & movies, apps , video games and more! If you’ve been wondering IF you should let your teen read or watch something, now you can find out!

OverDrive allows you to read FREE audio books and videos through your local library and school, using their app, Libby. For Android and iOs

In addition to these resources, I asked Hillary to share a handful of books that she loves and recommends—for young—and not so young—adults …

I LOVE how Hillary remind us that books are both windows and mirrors in their ability to show us another person, place, time or view and that they often introduce characters in whom we see a reflection of ourselves—we relate in some way to them through our own personal experiences and challenges.

If you have already read or choose to read (or listen) to any of these books, I want to know! Leave a comment here or reach out to me. Use the contact form at stacyjulian.com or send me a message on Instagram @stacyjulian AND, thank you for listening!