Jan 12, 2025
Grab your pencils and get ready for an artistic adventure as Jed
Doherty welcomes back the dynamic duo behind the beloved Paws
series - Nathan Fairbairn and Michelle Assarasakorn. These two
creative powerhouses take us on an inspiring journey, revealing the
challenges and triumphs of bringing their latest installment in
their PAWS graphic novel series, "Hazel Has Her Hands Full," to
life.
Jed and the guests dive deep into the importance of representation,
as they discuss Hazel's visible disability and the meticulous
research undertaken to ensure an authentic and respectful
portrayal. Michelle shares her ingenious techniques for
illustrating the wheelchair, providing a fascinating glimpse into
the artistic process.
But it's not just about the visuals - the Paws series is all about
fostering empathy and understanding in young readers. Nathan
eloquently explains his mission to introduce diverse characters and
perspectives, empowering kids to view the world through different
lenses. Jed chimes in with his own personal experiences,
underscoring the transformative impact of inclusive
storytelling.
The conversation also explores the series' overarching themes of
friendship, entrepreneurship, and the value of unsupervised play -
topics that resonate deeply with both parents and children alike.
Jed and the guests lament the over-scheduling of modern childhood,
championing the importance of boredom and real-world
connections.
As the episode winds down, Jed and the guests tease future
adventures for the Paws series, leaving listeners eagerly
anticipating the next installment.
But the fun doesn't stop there! Jed also welcomes back the
delightful Eden Estabrook, author of the "Arnie the Armadillo" book
series. Eden shares the inspiration behind her vocabulary-building
tales, and the creative process of sending her furry protagonist on
a Brazilian backpacking adventure. Jed and Eden engage in a lively
discussion about the power of picture books to introduce complex
words in a captivating way.
So, whether you're a seasoned artist or just starting your creative
journey, this episode is a must-listen, brimming with insights,
inspiration, and a whole lot of fun!
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