As many of you may know, I’ve been reviewing for and podcasting with The Comics Alternative for a couple of years. Several months ago I approached Derek Royal about the possibility of a monthly podcast within The Comics Alternative, one devoted to comics for young readers. Not only did I feel such an addition would fit in well with the other recurring monthly shows (webcomics and manga), I also felt that as a librarian I could perhaps bring a unique perspective to the table. Add to that, a university professor who teaches children’s and young adult literature for a living and loves comics. Derek thought it was a great idea and here we are with our first podcast!
In this first episode, Gwen Tarbox (professor of Children’s and Young Adult Narrative at Western Michigan University) and I not only looked at two books – Baba Yaga’s Assistant by Marika McCoola and Emily Carroll, and Sunny Side Up by Jennifer L. Holm and Matthew Holm – but also gave adults some good information and resources about comics and graphic novels and how libraries can help young readers.
Our monthly shows will feature a discussion of one YA book, one book for younger readers, and discussions on a wide variety of issues related to comics, young readers, tips for parents, and much, much more. Gwen and I had a great time recording this show and are very excited about the future. We hope our show will be informative, entertaining, and helpful. Please spread the word!
Journeys in Darkness and Light 