On this week's episode of the Adventures in Learning podcast, we meet Caldecott Medalist Jason Chin, whose books include Grand Canyon, Your Place in the Universe, The Universe in You, and Watercress. Join us for a conversation that explores the importance of story and connection in nonfiction books, as well as the ways educators can build real STEAM connections and experiences with them. Plus learn some really interesting facts about whale falls and hurricanes (hint -- you may see them appear in a future Jason Chin book). 

📘[00:55] Inspiration Behind the Books:

• [01:54] Jason's passionate approach to topics and sharing excitement.

🔍 [02:04] Research Process as a Voyage of Self-Discovery:

• [03:46] The creative process and personal connection to the topic.

📚[04:06] Diverse Range of Topics:

• [06:09]  Balancing writing and images, using hurricanes as an example.

🌟 [07:09] Career Journey

👥 [09:16]Mentorship and Giving Back:

• [09:16] Influence of mentor Trina Schart Hyman on Jason's artistic journey.
• [11:55] Reflection on being on the giving end of mentorship.

📚 [12:50] Educational Impact of Jason's Books:

• [12:50] STEM/STEAM lesson examples 
• [16:16] Power of collaboration among teachers, librarians, and art teachers.

📘 [16:58] Power of Narrative Nonfiction:

• [18:01] Creating engaging stories to captivate readers and foster learning.

🌟[18:43] Invitation to Learning:

• [18:43] Providing multiple entry points for readers.
• [19:37] Connecting new information to existing knowledge for better retention.

🎉 [21:45]Diverse Characters in Illustrations as Windows and Mirrors:

• [25:25]  The Universe in You 
• [27:20] Jason shares insights from consulting with individuals with lived experiences to create an authentic wheelchair using character.

📚 [31:40] Educational Impact:

• [31:40] Strategies for igniting passion for nonfiction in kids and teaching nonfiction writing to children 
• [34:20] Examples of projects that connect art, STEM/STEAM, the library, and language arts in the classroom

📘 Life After Whale:

• [43:25]   Life After Whale: The Amazing Ecosystem of a Whale Falland its relevance to ecosystems, food chains, and the cycle of life.
• [46:31] How the upcoming book incorporates extreme facts about blue whales and ecosystems, plus Jason's research experiences for the book, including a whale watch.

🌟Curiosity is the Cure:

• [48:40] Jason expresses hope for the future, highlighting the curiosity of students as a driving force for positive change.

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