Sep 24, 2024
In this episode of the Reading with Your Kids podcast, host Jed
Doherty chats with two talented authors who are bringing diverse
stories and cultural perspectives to young readers.
First up, Jed introduces Deeba Zargarpur,, the author of the new
middle-grade novel "Farrah Noorzad and the Ring of Fate." Deeba
shares how her own Afghan heritage inspired the story of a
12-year-old girl who discovers her jinn (supernatural being)
lineage and goes on an epic quest. Deeba discusses the cultural
significance of jinn in her upbringing and how she wanted to create
a fun, magical world that also explores deeper themes of family,
identity, and moral complexity.
Next, Jed welcomes David Flores, author of "The Boy Who Cried
Falta." As a soccer coach, David was inspired by the common
tendency of players to fake injuries, which led him to put a
creative spin on the classic "Boy Who Cried Wolf" tale. David
shares his own passion for the sport, which took root in his
childhood in El Salvador and continued to be a source of community
and belonging after he immigrated to the US as a
teenager.
Both Deeba and David emphasize the importance of representation in
children's literature, and how their books provide windows into
diverse cultures while also serving as mirrors for young readers to
see themselves reflected. They discuss the value of co-reading with
families and the meaningful conversations that can arise around
themes of morality, identity, and the immigrant experience.
With engaging storytelling and a focus on cultural connections,
this episode of Reading with Your Kids is a must-listen for
parents, educators, and anyone who appreciates the power of
diverse, imaginative children's literature.
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