Julie’s Library

What if monsters weren’t scary at all, but instead made fantastic friends? Today’s book helps us imagine a world where every child has a special monster friend. Plus, a special message from author Michelle Knudsen.

Today, we’re settling into the reading nook with two tales of unexpected visitors. Plus, a special message from author Mac Barnett.

A magical child is born with the ability to transform into many different things. But what happens when the other children don’t understand? Plus, a special message from author Kai Cheng Thom.

One day, Tía Isa announces that she wants a car. But how will she ever save up enough money? Her niece has a secret plan… Author Meg Medina stops by the library to join Julie and Emma in the reading nook.

Today’s stories are about the things that make us unique, whether it’s a favorite dress or a special talent. Plus, author Christine Baldacchino tells us how an experience from her life inspired her book.

Norman is a big, fluffy alien. He lives alone on Planet Gerp and eats Nom Noms for every meal. Will an unexpected visitor convince him to try something new? Plus, a special message from chef Ann Kim.

Omu’s thick, red stew is sure to be the best meal she’s ever had. The only trouble is, everyone in town seems to agree. Author and illustrator Oge Mora visits the library to read her book. Plus, she tells us about the real-life Omu who inspired her book.

The true story of a girl who built a hug from scratch. Plus, Julie and Emma talk with Dr. Temple Grandin herself! They discuss her hug machine and the unique ways autistic brains work.

A fashionable rooster? A dragon that breathes… anything but fire? Today’s stories are about two creatures that march to the beat of their own drum. Plus, an interview with Queer Eye’s Tan France about fashion and the clothing that makes him feel extra special.

The story of a little boy who asked big questions - and grew up to be a world-famous scientist! Plus, an interview with astrophysicist Chung-Pei Ma, who spends her days searching for black holes in the far reaches of our universe.

What would it be like to befriend a Komodo dragon? Or invent a totally new food? Today’s books are inspired by true stories about extraordinary people. Plus, soul food scholar Adrian Miller on what happens when you combine Kool-Aid and… pickles!

If a river sang a song, what would it sound like? Today’s stories show us how to listen and learn from the world around us. Plus, musician Nabihah Iqbal shares her own river song.

Today, two stories about our animal companions. In the first story, a cat named Vincent learns what “home” means. And in the second, we hear the true story of an award-winning piano piece -- composed by a cat!

Nalvana’s friends all have superpowers. They can fly, run lightning fast, and even breathe under water! But what is Nalvana’s superpower? Actress Miali Buscemi reads today’s book. Plus, author Aviaq Johnston tells us about growing up in her hometown of Igloolik.

A late-night visit to the library inspires Julie and Emma to read two books about the night sky. Author and illustrator Floyd Cooper drops in for a visit and shares one of his stories. Plus, astronomer Annette S. Lee teaches us about the Lakota/Dakota Star Map.

Emma has a case of writer’s block - and only a visit to the reading nook can cure it! Julie and Emma read a book they wrote together. Plus, a visit from another mother-daughter writing team: Jane Yolen and Heidi E.Y. Stemple.

How do you face a big, roaring ocean if you’re just a tiny dog? Or what if you love to dance, but can’t muster the courage to audition for the big ballet performance? Today, we’re reading two books about facing fears. Author Victoria M. Sanchez drops by the library for a visit. Plus, Andres Gonzalez from the Holistic Life Foundation teaches us to conquer anxiety with just our breath.

“There will be times when you walk into a room and no one there is quite like you.” Award-winning author Jacqueline Woodson visits the library and shares a book about feeling different from everyone around you. Plus, she reads a poem about her great-great grandfather, her mother, and her own life. It’s called “it’ll be scary sometimes.”

Pandas, poems, and problems galore! Today’s books will inspire you to write a story or poem of your own. Plus, author Deborah Underwood shares her foolproof recipe for a good story.

Listen… what do you hear? Today’s stories are all about listening deeply and experiencing the familiar in a totally new way.