Review: Hour of the Heart – what can one-hour therapy sessions offer?

What does ‘the father of group therapy’ do at the age of 90, when he is still advising patients in the therapy sessions that have been his life’s work, and yet must face his increasing frailties and even his own mortality? Rather than melt into retirement, Dr Yalom develops another revolutionary approach. In Hour of theContinue reading “Review: Hour of the Heart – what can one-hour therapy sessions offer?”

Danielle Binks on writing middle grade, school refusal, and the power of sad stories | Author interview

We were thrilled to sit down with Danielle Binks to talk all about her latest novel, Six Summers of Tash and Leopold: a big, hopeful, coming-of-age middle-grade book that features complicated families and life-changing summers. The novel follows the titular characters as they deal with difficult life transitions and school can’t (a.k.a. school refusal). DanielleContinue reading “Danielle Binks on writing middle grade, school refusal, and the power of sad stories | Author interview”

Nina Kenwood on life stability, 30s anxieties, and wedding drama | Author interview

In this interview, we welcome author Nina Kenwood back to the show, where we discuss her new book – and her first book for adults – The Wedding Forecast. Topics include starting over after a long-term relationship, anxieties around parenthood and aging, and stability versus taking a leap. Content notes for the episode: anxiety and overthinking;Continue reading “Nina Kenwood on life stability, 30s anxieties, and wedding drama | Author interview”

Emma Lord: Grief, Trauma, and the Apocalypse l Author Interview

Priscilla and Elise sit down with Emma Lord to discuss her debut novel, Anomaly. The novel follows teenager Piper Manning, who wakes up after an apocalyptic pandemic alone – and with an uncontrollable power. We talk about the depiction of grief and PTSD, Piper’s isolating experience in the aftermath of a pandemic, Anomaly‘s cast ofContinue reading “Emma Lord: Grief, Trauma, and the Apocalypse l Author Interview”

Penny Draws a Secret Adventure continues a heartfelt depiction of childhood anxiety

Little by little, Penny Lowry is making it through grade five—with a bit of help from her friends and her loveable dog, Cosmo. There’s a lot of change to deal with this year! Penny’s newborn twin brother and sister have everyone in her family on their last nerve with their crying. Her friends, Maria andContinue reading “Penny Draws a Secret Adventure continues a heartfelt depiction of childhood anxiety”

What is left unsaid in Sharon Kernot’s ‘Birdy’

Maddy is mute. Since the Incident she has barely spoken. And now she and her mother and brother are staying in a farmhouse on an old apricot orchard not far from town. It’s a chance to rest and recuperate – or a way to hide further away from the world. Alice is waiting. Since Birdy,Continue reading “What is left unsaid in Sharon Kernot’s ‘Birdy’”

Interview: Sara Shepard on the Penny Draws series

The “Penny Draws” series revolves around fifth-grader Penny Lowry, who navigates a challenging emotional landscape amid the trials of school life. The story deals with themes such as mental health and anxiety, exploring Penny’s struggle with her ever-changing friendships. We chat with author Sara Shepard, who is also the author of “Pretty Little Liars” series.

Interview: Megan Williams on Let’s Never Speak of This Again

Let’s Never Speak of This Again follows Abby as she navigates a changing dynamic with her best friend, particularly when tragedy strikes. What does being best friends really mean? How do you support a grieving friend while managing your own feelings? In this podcast interview, we speak in-depth with author Megan Williams about how sheContinue reading “Interview: Megan Williams on Let’s Never Speak of This Again”

Interview: Allayne L. Webster talks Selfie

In this special interview, we chat with Allayne L. Webster, who recently published her tenth novel, Selfie. In Selfie, we meet year 8 student Tully, who is shocked to find herself the new best friend of teenage influencer Dene Walker. We chat about teenage friendships, the impact of social media on trust and identity, andContinue reading “Interview: Allayne L. Webster talks Selfie”

Interview: Nina Kenwood on Unnecessary Drama

We are very excited to chat with the wonderful Nina Kenwood about her latest novel, Unnecessary Drama. Nina’s debut novel, It Sounded Better in My Head, has been shortlisted for multiple awards and has been published in six languages. (It is also one of Priscilla’s favourite YA novels.) Our conversation covers topics like high-functioning anxiety,Continue reading “Interview: Nina Kenwood on Unnecessary Drama”