On the latest episode of the Reading with Your Kids podcast, host Jed Doherty had the pleasure of chatting with two talented children's book authors - Lela Nargi and Riley Cross. Lela Nargi joined the show to celebrate the release of her new picture book, "The Lonely Goose." Jed and Lela discussed the unique bond between Canada geese, and how Lela's story explores themes of love, loss, and resilience in the animal kingdom. Lela shared her passion for wildlife and nature, and how she hopes the book will inspire families to appreciate the beauty of the natural world, even in urban environments. Later, Jed welcomed Riley Cross to the program to talk about her new middle-grade novel, "The Swamp of Doom." Riley explained how she collaborated with her own kids to design the quirky characters, including a half-alligator, half-shark creature named Alacarte. The two discussed the importance of encouraging creativity and imagination in both children and adults, and how Riley's background as a high school language arts teacher informs her approach to storytelling. Throughout the conversation, Jed and the authors explored the ways that books can help kids (and grown-ups!) face their fears, build empathy, and find joy in the unexpected. Whether it's a Canada goose navigating the loss of her mate or a young girl with the "superpower" of bad luck, these stories offer a unique window into the human (and animal) experience. Listeners are sure to be inspired to pick up "The Lonely Goose" and "The Swamp of Doom" - and maybe even start their own family reading adventures in the process.

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