Dive into the Magical World of Selkie Folklore with Author Kelly Jarvis
In a captivating episode of the Connecticut Book Festivals Podcast, host Jed Doherty sits down with local author Kelly Jarvis to explore her enchanting new novella, "Selkie Moon." Set in the mystical Orkney Islands of Scotland, this compelling story weaves together family dynamics, folklore, and the transformative power of storytelling.
Jarvis, a professor at Central Connecticut State University and contributing writer for the Fairy Tale Magazine, brings a unique perspective to her writing. Her novella centers on Isla, a young woman who uses selkie folklore to understand her parents' complex relationship. Selkies, mythical creatures that transform between seals and humans, serve as a powerful metaphor for personal transformation and identity.
The conversation delves deep into the world of folklore, exploring how stories help humans understand their experiences across cultures. Jarvis explains that folklore isn't just an ancient practice but a living, breathing form of storytelling that continues to evolve. Her passion for fairy tales and mythological narratives shines through as she discusses the rich traditions of storytelling from Scotland to indigenous cultures.
"Selkie Moon" represents Jarvis's first venture into independent publishing, a journey she describes as collaborative and community-driven. Supported by mentors and fellow writers from the Fairy Tale Magazine, she has crafted a novella that bridges the gap between traditional folklore and contemporary storytelling.
Readers can find "Selkie Moon" and learn more about Kelly Jarvis through her website, KellyJarvisWriter.com, or by exploring the Fairy Tale Magazine. With future projects in the works, including a holiday-themed romantic novella and a novel set partially in Connecticut, Jarvis continues to enchant readers with her unique storytelling approach.
For those who love magical narratives, family sagas, and folklore-inspired fiction, "Selkie Moon" promises to be a must-read literary adventure.

In this episode of the Connecticut Book Festivals Podcast, host Jed Doherty welcomes Paul Mayer, Vice President of Marketing and Communications at DATCO, to discuss his new children’s picture book, "The Big Yellow Adventure." The episode highlights Connecticut’s vibrant literary scene and focuses on how Mayer’s book helps first-time school bus riders, especially kindergartners, overcome anxiety about their first day on the bus. Paul Mayer shares the inspiration behind "The Big Yellow Adventure," which stems from his own son’s nervousness about riding the school bus. The book follows Lily, a young girl experiencing her first bus ride, and offers practical tips for managing anxiety, such as grounding techniques and seeking support from friends and family. The story is designed to be read by parents to their children, fostering a supportive and interactive experience. A key aspect of the book’s development was Mayer’s collaboration with Optimus Healthcare, a leading Connecticut-based health clinic, to ensure the content is age-appropriate and supportive for children’s mental health. The book also includes important school bus safety tips and features real photos of children riding the bus to reinforce positive associations. "The Big Yellow Adventure" is available for free download, along with a coloring book version, in both English and Spanish at bigyellowadventure.com. Mayer discusses the book’s positive reception from parents, schools, and the media, as well as DATCO’s commitment to community engagement and child safety. Listeners learn about DATCO’s role in safely transporting over 130,000 children daily and the company’s dedication to supporting families. The episode concludes with information on how to access the book and a preview of future projects. This episode is a must-listen for parents, educators, and anyone interested in children’s literature and school safety in Connecticut.

Imagine a world where every child starts their journey with the power of books, guided by caring doctors who understand the magic of storytelling. That's exactly what Reach Out and Read is doing, and we sat down with Dr. Michelle Shiffman to uncover this incredible program's impact.
Reach Out and Read isn't just about handing out books – it's a revolutionary approach to child development. From birth to age five, pediatricians give families age-appropriate books during wellness visits, creating magical moments of connection and learning. Dr. Shiffman explains that more than 90% of a child's brain develops in those crucial first five years, and reading together is like brain-building rocket fuel.
The program isn't just about literacy – it's about representation, emotional growth, and building unbreakable bonds between children and caregivers. By providing books that reflect diverse experiences, Reach Out and Read helps kids see themselves as important, valued, and capable of amazing things.
Some mind-blowing stats? In 2024, the program reached over 4.5 million children, distributing nearly 8 million books nationwide. In Colorado alone, they gave out 240,000 books! But it's not just about quantity – it's about quality interactions that transform lives.
Physical books matter too. Dr. Shiffman passionately explains how turning pages, feeling textures, and engaging all senses helps children develop language, motor skills, and imagination in ways digital reading simply can't match.
For parents worried about reading to their kids, here's the best news: you don't need to be a perfect reader. Just spending time together, looking at pictures, and asking questions can set your child up for incredible success.
Want to get involved? Visit reachoutandread.org and discover how you can help build a generation of confident, curious readers.
Reading isn't just fundamental – it's transformational. And doctors like Dr. Michelle Shiffman are leading the charge, one book at a time.