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March 26, 2025 33 mins

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Embark on a thrilling adventure with Stuart Gibbs, a master of storytelling who turns reluctant readers into avid book enthusiasts. The author behind such hit series as Spy School and Fun Jungle takes us on his creative journey through the realm of middle-grade fiction. Want to know what borborygmus means? We've got you covered (and so does the Once Upon a Tim series). We dive into storytelling and learn how Stuart weaves tales of espionage, mystery, and scientific intrigue. Listener questions lead us to plotters and pantsers, whether librarians make good secret agents, and Stuart's favorite spy novelist (who isn't him). We also discuss conservation, science, and how Fun Jungle helps spark curiosity in young readers about wildlife and environmental issues and encourages them to make a difference. 

Chapters:

00:45: Engaging reluctant readers and Stuart Gibbs' middle grade Origin Story 

03:03: Sneaking in words like borborygmus in Once Upon a Tim 

05:52: The importance of strong male and female characters across all five series 

07:52: A big year for new releases: Spy Ski School Graphic Novel; All Ears; Spy School Blackout; and Space Case Graphic Novel

11:05: Favorite series, how or why to end a series, and researching new settings

14:02: Plotters and Pantsers: Kid Questions from Redbud Run Elementary

16:28: Would a librarian be a good secret agent? (Katie M., Handley Library)

16:51: Meet Agent 006 1/2 Jimmy Bond and discover Stuart's favorite spy novelist (who isn't him)

20:01: More Kid Questions from Redbud Run:  All Ears and amazing elephant facts

22:49: Capybaras, Conservation, Championing Science, and Inspiring Kids (and their Adults) to Care for the Planet

28:39: Cool science connections in Spy Ski School Graphic Novel (NO SPOILERS)

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*Disclosure: I am a Bookshop.org. affiliate.

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