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.

Dive into the Untold Story of Isabella Whitney: A Rebellious Poet Who Defied 16th Century Expectations In this captivating episode of the Connecticut Book Festivals Podcast, author Constance Briones brings to life the remarkable story of Isabella Whitney, a groundbreaking poet who challenged the literary norms of Tudor England. If you're a history buff, literature lover, or simply enjoy stories of incredible women who refused to be silenced, this episode is your perfect literary escape. Briones reveals how Isabella, a young woman from an upper-class family, navigated the strict social constraints of the 16th century with remarkable courage and passion. Despite limited educational opportunities for women, Isabella developed a deep love for reading and writing poetry - a pursuit that was almost exclusively reserved for men at the time. The podcast explores Isabella's journey from a maid servant in London to a pioneering poet who wrote boldly about love, relationships, and the complexities of human emotions. Her story isn't just a historical account; it's a testament to the power of curiosity, resilience, and intellectual hunger. Listeners will be fascinated by the intricate details of Isabella's life, including her illicit love affair with Robert Barrington and her determination to continue writing poetry despite societal restrictions. Briones masterfully weaves historical context with personal narrative, bringing this forgotten poet to vibrant life. Key highlights include:

• The impact of the Protestant Reformation on women's education

• Challenges faced by women writers in Tudor England

• Isabella's revolutionary approach to poetry

• The importance of passion in overcoming social barriers

Whether you're a history enthusiast, aspiring writer, or someone who loves discovering hidden stories of remarkable women, this episode offers a fascinating glimpse into a world where knowledge was a radical act of rebellion. Don't miss this extraordinary exploration of a poet who dared to write her own story in a time when women were expected to remain silent.

Dive into the Mystical World of Reincarnation with Author Billie Kowalewski In this captivating episode of the Connecticut Book Festivals Podcast, host Jed Doherty sits down with young adult fantasy author Billie Kowalewski to explore her groundbreaking novel "Our Lives in Between" - a mind-bending journey that challenges everything we think we know about life, death, and existence. Kowalewski's debut novel introduces readers to a fascinating concept: Earth is essentially a cosmic classroom where souls come to learn about themselves. The story follows Harmony, a character who helps her fellow souls understand the deeper meaning of their earthly experiences. Imagine a world where dying isn't an end, but just another part of learning - where a classmate accidentally killing you is viewed not as a tragedy, but as part of a larger spiritual journey. Drawing from her own spiritual beliefs, Kowalewski shares how she's been guided by signs, spirit guides, and an intuitive understanding of life's interconnectedness. She candidly discusses why she chose to present these profound ideas through young adult fantasy, believing that fiction can often communicate complex truths more effectively than non-fiction. The author's unique perspective suggests we're part of soul "classes" that repeatedly interact across lifetimes, learning and growing together. Her approach to spirituality is refreshingly practical, viewing everyday life as a continuous learning experience about ourselves. Listeners will be intrigued by Kowalewski's belief that she's lived multiple lives and her ongoing connection with her spirit guide, Luke. Her storytelling blends personal insight, spiritual exploration, and imaginative narrative in a way that's both accessible and thought-provoking. For anyone curious about reincarnation, spiritual growth, or looking for a fresh perspective on existence, this podcast episode offers a fascinating glimpse into an alternative view of life's purpose. Want to learn more? Check out Billie Kowalewski's website and her book "Our Lives in Between" - available wherever books are sold.

Dive into the Heartfelt World of "Mad Season" with Author Gregory Armstrong
In this captivating episode of the Connecticut Book Festivals Podcast, host Jed Doherty sits down with Gregory Armstrong to explore the deeply moving story behind his novel "Mad Season." If you're looking for a powerful tale of personal transformation, healing, and the courage to face your past, this is one conversation you won't want to miss.
Armstrong's novel follows Ellis Grace Garrity, a young woman who experiences a devastating tragedy at 11 and spends the next 15 years running from her pain. When life suddenly forces her to return to her hometown, she must confront the relationships she abandoned and the secrets that have been waiting for her.
What makes this story truly special is Armstrong's own remarkable journey. As a legally blind writer who spent decades nurturing his creative dreams, he brings an incredible depth of personal experience to his writing. Inspired by the Matchbox 20 song of the same name, "Mad Season" explores how we cope with trauma, reinvent ourselves, and ultimately find the strength to reconnect with our roots.
The author shares fascinating insights into his creative process, describing how his characters often seem to take on a life of their own. Listeners will be drawn into Armstrong's vivid storytelling, which captures the complex emotions of returning home and rebuilding fractured relationships.
Even more exciting? Armstrong is already working on a prequel that will dive deeper into the backstory of Ellis's family, promising fans more of this compelling narrative.
For book lovers who appreciate character-driven stories about personal growth, resilience, and the power of facing our past, "Mad Season" is a must-read. Grab a copy on Amazon, follow Gregory Armstrong on Facebook, and get ready to be moved by this extraordinary tale of healing and hope.

In the latest episode of the Connecticut Book Festivals Podcast, host Jed Doherty sits down with the remarkable Laurel Peterson, a multi-talented writer who seamlessly weaves poetry and mystery into captivating narratives that explore the depths of human experience.
Peterson's poetry collection "Do You Expect Your Art to Answer?" offers a fascinating journey through ekphrastic poetry, where each poem responds to a unique piece of artwork. Inspired by a provocative moment at the Whitney's Biennial, the book challenges readers to look deeper into artistic expression and personal interpretation.
Her deeply personal collection "Daughter of the Sky" pays tribute to her late father, an airline pilot, by exploring themes of loss, space, and human insignificance against the backdrop of the vast universe. Drawing inspiration from NASA photographs and scientific curiosity, Peterson transforms grief into a poetic exploration of cosmic wonder.
Mystery lovers will be drawn to "The Fallen," Peterson's novel featuring a protagonist with predictive dreams. The story follows Clara, who must unravel a murder mystery alongside her police officer partner, blending supernatural intuition with classic detective work.
As a professor at Norwalk Community College, Peterson brings unique insights into the challenges facing young writers today. She candidly discusses the distractions of modern technology and the courage required to express creative voices in a world that can feel hostile to intellectual pursuits.
Peterson's writing process is a testament to creativity's adaptability. She navigates between poetry and prose, using different writing styles to process emotions, explore complex themes, and make sense of the world around her.
Listeners can find Peterson's works on her website, Laurel Peterson.com, Amazon, and Bookshop, offering multiple ways to dive into her compelling literary world.
Whether you're a poetry enthusiast, mystery lover, or simply curious about the creative process, this episode promises an inspiring journey through the mind of a truly versatile writer.