In this episode of the Reading with Your Kids podcast, we dive into the world of middle grade novels in verse with author Shifa Saltagi Safadi. Shifa discusses her new book, "Kareem Between," which follows a Syrian American seventh-grader navigating the challenges of identity, belonging, and discrimination in 2017 America.

Shifa shares how the novel's themes of political policies, like the "Muslim ban," directly impact young people like Kareem, who is torn between his Syrian and American identities. The host and Shifa explore the importance of diverse storytelling, using Kareem's love of football as a relatable way to connect with readers.

We also hear from Candace Jones, who shares her personal journey of having two premature babies in the NICU. Candace's experiences inspired her to create the "Melody's Little Library" initiative, which collects donated books to provide comfort and connection for NICU families.

Finally, we chat with author Angela Smith about her empowering children's books, "I Am Me, Unique and Free" and "I Love Myself." Angela discusses the power of affirmations and self-reflection to help children (and adults) overcome negative messages and learn to love themselves.

Throughout the episode, the host and guests emphasize the importance of unity, finding common ground, and prioritizing relationships to create a more compassionate and inclusive society. This conversation is a must-listen for parents, educators, and anyone interested in the transformative power of children's literature.

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