The Worlds of Words Center at the University of Arizona College of Education launched a new podcast called “WOW Reads” that centers the voices of teens and pre-teens around literature for young people. The podcast, which currently has four episodes of about 15 minutes each and a bonus episode, features WOW Center Reading Ambassadors discussing books after having met the authors of those books.

“The ‘WOW Reads’ podcast offers engaging and insightful discussions by young people about the literature that is written for them. The ambassadors provide thoughtful analysis and commentary on the books they read and the authors they meet,” says Rebecca Ballenger, Assistant Director for the WOW Center.

In the podcast’s first episode, the WOW Center Reading Ambassadors discuss “Across the Desert,” a novel by Dusti Bowling. The ambassadors talk about how the story’s themes of loss, grief and resilience resonates with them. They also share their admiration for Bowling’s writing style and her ability to create vivid imagery.

In the second episode, the ambassadors delve into “The Agathas” by Kathleen Glasgow and Liz Lawson. They discuss the book’s themes of friendship and forgiveness — and Agatha Christie’s infamous real-life disappearance. An effort was made to avoid spoilers around this mystery novel.

Teen Reading Ambassador, Rebecca, learns the ropes before the first WOW Reads podcast recording session.

The third episode features “The Hidden Knife” by Melissa Marr. The ambassadors praise the book’s complex characters, but express disappointment in how the book ends. They also discuss meeting Marr, who they say is cool.

In the fourth episode, the ambassadors talk about “A Magic Steeped in Poison” by Judy I. Lin. They discuss the book’s exploration of Chinese tea ceremonies and medicinal traditions, and how those enhance this magical story. They also praise the book’s portrayal of relationships, especially between siblings.

Itzel takes a moment to Be Real while recording Season 1’s bonus episode for the Big Read Tucson.

The bonus episode for the Big Read Tucson features “Postcolonial Love Poem” by Natalie Diaz and “We Are Water Protectors” by Carole Lindstrom and Michaela Goade. The ambassadors discuss the themes of environmentalism and the importance of preserving indigenous cultures.

“This podcast is a valuable tool for the Reading Ambassadors to share their interest and the work they do around literature,” says Ballenger. “Podcasting also fosters critical thinking and public speaking skills while providing a platform for them to engage with books and their peers.”

Upcoming episodes to be released in May 2023 promise to be just as engaging. The ambassadors will discuss “Echoes of Grace” by Guadalupe García McCall, “The Many Assassinations of Samir the Seller of Dreams” by Daniel Nayeri and “Distress Signal” by Mary Lambert.

The Worlds of Words: Center of Global Literacies and Literatures Reading Ambassador initiative offers middle and high school students a college experience within the University of Arizona College of Education that focuses on books for young people. Ambassadors learn about literature under the direction of faculty and staff with expertise in children’s literature, education, library science and marketing. Catch “WOW Reads” on your favorite podcasting platform, including Apple Podcasts and Spotify. The WOW Reads podcast is recorded in the Digital Innovation and Learning Lab (DIALL) in the University of Arizona College of Education.

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• Themes: A Magic Steeped In Poison, Across the Desert, Carole Lindstrom, Dusti Bowling, Judy I. Lin, Kathleen Glasgow, Liz Lindstrom, Melissa Marr, Michaela Goade, Middle School Reading Ambassadors, Natalie Diaz, Postcolonial Love Poem, Rebecca Ballenger, Teen Reading Ambassadors, The Agathas, The Hidden Knife, We Are Water Protectors, WOW Reads Podcast
• Descriptors: WOW News