E246: Stunning YA Verse: THE SECRET TO BELONGING by Megan E. Freeman

Happy Monday!

When the KidLit Love podcast first launched, I talked with authors of picture books, middle grade books and young adult novels, too. As I got to know the my audience, it was clear that listeners gravitated more toward the picture books and middle grade age groups, so I quietly shifted my podcast to only focus on that niche.

But when the opportunity came to talk with Megan E. Freeman about her young adult debut novel, I just could not resist. I adore Megan’s books and absolutely loved our conversation on the podcast about her dystopian verse novels: ALONE and AWAY. So, when I heard about her debut young adult novel, I just couldn’t resist asking her back. I hope you loved this new conversation as much as I do!

Plus, I HAVE NEWS. I’m thrilled to announce that I’m launching a new KidLit Love subscription box called INSIDE THE BOOK. I’ll share a formal announcement soon, but here’s a bit of a teaser:

KidLit Love: Inside the Book is a reading + writing experience for anyone interested in writing children’s literature.

Each edition features one carefully chosen children’s book, one writerly surprise, and an intimate live Zoom conversation with the author focused on writer’s craft and inspiration. Together, we’ll read like writers, look closely at how the story works, hear the behind-the-book story and gather inspiration for our own writing.

I’d love to get your feedback as I get ready to open the doors. If you answer these short questions, send me a message or leave your name below for a special coupon for a discount on the first round in November!

Thank you for your feedback. Leave any wants and wishes in the comments below. Stay tuned for the big reveal with our very first author. Here’s your one hint: She’s been on the podcast before with a narrative picture book biography that I absolutely adored and want wait to look at through a writer’s lens!

Keep scrolling to press play on that episode and to see other new books that have made their way into my reading life!

Stephanie

Book Birthdays and Other Book Reviews🎈🎁📖🎂📚🎉

Here are the newly released books that have made their way to me along with other books that I have read and reviewed:

🎉WHALE FALL by Elysia Rourke (Amazon / Bookshop)

This heart-warming middle grade novel features a young orca who dreams of becoming the matriarch of her pod and instead finds herself living a life in captivity. It’s a deeply moving story of family, determination, and hope as a majestic creature weathers the storms of a life she’s not in control of.

🎉THE DOT Deluxe Gift Edition by Peter H. Reynolds (From Candlewick)

Dot day is almost here! This beautiful slipcased gift edition features an introduction to International Dot Day, a link to a guide for burgeoning artists and their teachers, and a heartfelt letter from the author. Listen to our conversation on the podcast!

E246: Stunning YA Verse: THE SECRET TO BELONGING by Megan E. Freeman

On this episode of the KidLit Love podcast, I’m talking with Megan E. Freeman about her young adult debut: THE SECRET TO BELONGING.

This stunning novel-in-verse is about longing, love and the courage to find joy from despair. It’s beautifully lyrical, deeply emotional and highly inspirational, too. You won’t want to miss this one!

Come listen as we talk about the intimacy we build with characters, the incredibly moving themes around family, new experiences and growing through challenges and Megan’s hope for both the readers who already know and love her earlier novels to the new young adult readers who find their way to this book.

Here is the book featured in this episode. You’ll find links to my Amazon and Bookshop affiliate stores below. Thanks for your bookish support!

THE SECRET TO BELONGING by Megan E. Freeman (Amazon / Bookshop)

Here’s where you can find Megan online:

Website: https://www.meganefreeman.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/megan_e_freeman_writer

I’d love to know what you think of this episode. Share your comments below!

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