In an inspiring episode of the Connecticut Book Festivals Podcast, author Timothy Craig shares the compelling story behind his young adult novel, "The Second". This emotional journey follows 17-year-old Kyle Castleman as he navigates life after a devastating car accident leaves his father in a coma.

Craig's novel was born from a deeply personal experience with his own father's hospitalization in 2017. During a critical medical moment, he discovered the profound healing power of music - a theme that becomes the heartbeat of his storytelling. The book explores Kyle's quest to wake his father using their shared musical connection, while simultaneously uncovering family secrets and confronting the mysterious departure of his mother years earlier.

A former high school English teacher, Craig brings unique insights into teenage experiences. He understands the challenges young adults face in discovering their identity, forming relationships, and finding their place in the world. His writing style draws comparisons to acclaimed young adult authors like Jay Asher and John Green, offering authentic and engaging narratives.

Interestingly, Craig's writing journey began as a dare from his own students - a challenge to create a story with a genuinely happy ending. This collaborative experience ignited his passion for storytelling and connecting with young readers.

The podcast also delves into broader topics like technology's impact on communication and the importance of encouraging reading among teenagers. Craig emphasizes that there are no "reluctant readers" - just students waiting to discover the right book.

Currently working on his second novel, "Eight", Craig continues to explore complex emotional landscapes through his writing. Readers can connect with him on his Facebook page, Timothy Craig Author, to learn more about "The Second" and his upcoming projects.

For anyone seeking a powerful, music-driven coming-of-age story, "The Second" promises an unforgettable reading experience.

In the latest episode of the Connecticut Book Festivals podcast, author Jordan Lopez opens up about his powerful "Look Down Upon" young adult trilogy, offering a raw and authentic portrayal of neurodiversity that's been missing from literature for too long. Lopez, who is himself on the autism spectrum, created protagonist Luke Ramirez as a way to challenge stereotypes and provide meaningful representation for neurodivergent teens and young adults. The series follows Luke's journey through high school and college, confronting bullying, family secrets, and personal growth in a way that feels incredibly genuine. Drawing from his own experiences, Lopez shares candid insights about growing up autistic, including challenging moments in middle school and his path to self-acceptance. He emphasizes the critical message that autism is a spectrum, and "if you've met one person with autism, you've met one person with autism" - challenging the one-size-fits-all perception many people hold. The trilogy isn't just a story about disability; it's a nuanced exploration of identity, resilience, and finding one's place in the world. Lopez's writing aims to break down barriers and provide representation that goes beyond simplistic portrayals often seen in media. Readers can find the "Look Down Upon" series on Amazon and Barnes & Noble, with Lopez actively participating in book events across Connecticut. His commitment to authentic storytelling extends beyond his books - he maintains an active online presence through his website (jordanalopez.com) and social media channels. For anyone seeking a compelling YA series that offers genuine insight into the neurodivergent experience, Lopez's trilogy promises to be a groundbreaking read that challenges perceptions and celebrates individual differences. Whether you're a fan of young adult literature, interested in diverse storytelling, or want to understand autism from a personal perspective, this podcast episode and Lopez's books offer a powerful, enlightening journey.

In this captivating episode of the Connecticut Book Festivals podcast, host Jed Doherty sits down with Amanda Halpin, a special education teacher and debut children's book author who's bringing a splash of color to the literary world with her enchanting picture book, "Onyx Pearl."
Halpin's journey is as vibrant as her storytelling. Inspired by a student on the autism spectrum and her lifelong passion for writing, she crafted a unique tale about a character living in a black-and-white world who discovers the magic of color through nature. The book, aimed at children aged 8-10, is a poetic exploration of discovery, imagination, and the transformative power of the natural world.
As a special education teacher in Middletown, Connecticut, Halpin brings a unique perspective to storytelling. She candidly discusses the challenges of modern education, from technology's impact on student attention to the difficulties of teaching during the pandemic. Her insights reveal a deep commitment to engaging children and encouraging their creativity.
The podcast doesn't just explore "Onyx Pearl" - it delves into Halpin's broader creative vision. She hints at future adventures for her protagonist and shares her plans for a poetry book for adults, showcasing her versatility as a writer.
Listeners will be charmed by Halpin's warm storytelling, her dedication to education, and her passion for inspiring young minds. Whether you're a parent, educator, or book lover, this episode offers a delightful glimpse into the creative process of a promising new author.
Want to explore "Onyx Pearl"? You can find the book on Amazon and Barnes & Noble. Follow Amanda Halpin's writing journey on her Facebook page, "Amanda Halpin Writes," and stay tuned for her upcoming website.
Don't miss this heartwarming conversation that celebrates creativity, education, and the magic of storytelling!