In episode 10.5 of Withywindle, we sit down with author Carrie Brownell to talk about writing for young readers, the enduring appeal of adventure, and the power of imagination.From her love of British history to the worlds she creates in Island of Stars, A Light at the End of the Woods, and The Golden Hour, Carrie shares some of the inspirations behind her work and endures some truly nonsensical games.Learn more about CarriePurchase Carrie’s Books:A Light at the End of the Woods The Golden HourIsland of Stars This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit withywindle.substack.com/subscribe

In this special episode of Withywindle, author and publisher Carolyn Givens joins us to share her story, The King’s Messenger!Carrie lives in Charlotte with her literary cat, Lord Peter Wimsey. She has previously bumped around the world, both as a missionary kid and adult. Carrie was part of the publishing process on more than 30 books before launching Bandersnatch. She’s the author of Rosefire, published by Bandersnatch Books in 2021, and The King’s Messenger, released as a new edition by Bandersnatch in 2022.Shop The King’s MessengerAbout Bandersnatch BooksAbout Carolyn Givens This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit withywindle.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode of Withywindle, we’re wandering into the wonderfully imaginative world of illustrator Jaime Zollars!We chat about favorite snacks, the path that led her to drawing, and the joys of making pictures (and maybe monsters) come to life. Jaime shares what sparks her imagination, how she found her way as an artist, and which of the books she’s illustrated is especially close to her heart. Come along for a conversation about art, books, creativity, and all the strange and delightful things that happen when you follow your imagination.Get Maybe MonstersView Jaime’s work and learn more! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit withywindle.substack.com/subscribe

In this special episode of Withywindle, author Matthew Mellema joins us to share an original story, Back from Mars!”It started when Earth lost communication with every single Martian outpost at the same time. Even worse was the final transmission from Mars. . .”Learn more about Matthew Mellema HEREShop Red Rex by Matthew Mellema This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit withywindle.substack.com/subscribe

What do baseball, Boston, and picture books have in common? Matt Tavares! In this delightful episode of Withywindle, we chat with the award-winning author and illustrator about the winding path that led him to creating beloved books for children. We also talk baseball, history, and discover how real-life passions can become beautiful stories.Garglehauser Song Lyrics by Andy! Garglehauser, the bookstore trollHe loves riding on the toll roadsGive him a book with a monster insideHe’ll laugh and laugh til he diesGarglehauser, the bookstore trollHe is very, very oldWise as master yoda, you seeGarglehauser, we love theeGarglehauser, the bookstore trollHe loves eating books with moldAs it’s always been foretoldGarglehauser, the bookstore trollLearn more about Matt TavaresShop Matt Tavares Books This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit withywindle.substack.com/subscribe

In this special episode of Withywindle, author Carolyn Leiloglou joins us to share one of the beloved tales from the Brothers Grimm: The Six Swans.The Six Swans is a timeless fairy tale about the quiet strength of sacrificial love, the endurance of hope, and the restorative power of faithful devotion.Learn more about Carolyn Leiloglou HERE.Shop books by Caolyn Leiloglou. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit withywindle.substack.com/subscribe

What happens when two lovers of stories, poetry, and imagination join us around the Withywindle fire?In episode two of Withywindle Season 10, we’re delighted to welcome poet, priest, and storyteller Malcolm Guite, along with master illustrator Stephen Crotts. Together, we wander through the worlds of myth, wonder, and faith, exploring the stories that shape our hearts and spark our imaginations.Enjoy!Get Galahad and the GrailMalcolm GuiteStephen Crotts This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit withywindle.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode we present “How Slimebottom the Troll Got His Name,” a wonderfully strange and delightfully mischievous tale written and brought to us by Glenn McCarty.Join us for a journey filled with trolls, trouble, and the kind of muddy mayhem that makes sense on Withywindle. This story is sure to leave a little slime on your boots and a smile on your face.Glenn McCarty Tumbleweed Books: https://glennmccarty.com/shop-2/Glenn McCarty Song of the Stone Tiger: https://www.bandersnatchbooks.com/books/stone-tigerWithywindle Substack: https://withywindle.substack.com This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit withywindle.substack.com/subscribe

Season 10 starts… NOW! After a long, long break (did you miss us? we missed you!), Withywindle is back with a brand-new episode packed with books, belly laughs, and some truly questionable jokes.Our first guest of the season is author Kate Milford, who joins us to talk about the magic of stories, mysterious adventures, and, of course, snacks. We swap favorites, ask big questions, get a little goofy along the way.Welcome back to Withywindle. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit withywindle.substack.com/subscribe

Surprise! We’re back for a special between-seasons episode.Deck the halls and duck the dad jokes . . . it’s the Withywindle Christmas Special! David and Graeme bring you a snow-covered story, yuletide games, a Very Official Holiday Snack Review™, and enough cheerful chaos to power Santa’s sleigh.Tune in for the merriest Withywindle of the year! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit withywindle.substack.com/subscribe