Episode #30
The Reader's Heart | Guest: John Schu Returns!
How can children's books help kids have nuanced conversations about complex ideas in a world that often profits from oversimplification? In this episode, Jennifer chats with John Schu about the books that continue to shape his reader's heart, the enduring power of the read-aloud, and why stories create space for nuance, connection, and community. Together, they revisit Because of Winn-Dixie and explore the creative journeys behind Ruthie Rose's Big Idea, Lily-May's Joyful Day, and Louder Than Hunger. They also reflect on how books can help readers navigate moments when more than one thing can be true at the same time. Along the way, John shares how certain characters became unexpected companions during his writing process, why read-alouds remain essential in classrooms and libraries, and what readers can look forward to next. Show notes, episode transcripts, educator activities, and other goodies can be found here . Chapters 00:00:00 – Welcome Back to The Reader's Heart 00:01:51 – A Return Visit and the Books Billowing John's Reader's Heart 00:07:06 – Because of Winn-Dixie and the Power of Read-Alouds 00:12:40 – Read-Alouds, Nuance, and Stories Connect Us 00:17:47 – Writing Picture Books, Writing Novels, and Finding the Right Story 00:21:55 – When Characters Become Helpers 00:29:04 – Joy and Anxiety Can Exist Together 00:32:01 – Louder Than Hunger and the Courage to Keep Connecting 00:38:45 – What's Next for John Schu 00:42:28 – Closing Credits
