Welcome to another episode of the Adventures in Learning podcast! I fell in love with Megan Benedict's work at a conference this spring, when she captivated an audience of teachers armed with only a typewriter and her imagination.  I was excited to discover that she also writes nonfiction picture books, effectively blending poetry and science in a way that is entertaining and illuminating. I am so excited to share this conversation about poetry, nonfiction, and science with you!

Episode Highlights:

1:05 Megan Benedict: From Classroom to Children's Books:
Megan shares her transformative journey from a middle school English teacher to a children's nonfiction picture book author. Discover how her love for poetry and science gave rise to her creative works, all while juggling family life.  Ever hide in the. bathroom to get work done? Megan has.

2:20 The Magic of Typewriter Rodeo:
We discuss the charm of crafting impromptu poetry on vintage typewriters and the profound impact these spontaneous verses have on people from all walks of life. Learn how this unique art form creates a bridge between generations and fosters a deep sense of being seen.

7:21 The Symbiosis of Science and Poetry:
Delve into Megan's children's books, Great Gusts: Winds of the World and the Science Behind Them and Sea Wolves, Keeper of the Rainforest and uncover how meticulously researched science intertwines with the imaginative power of poetry to captivate and educate young minds.

14:33 Illustrating Imagination:
Visual storytelling takes center stage as we explore the collaborative relationship between authors and illustrators. Experience how illustrations can breathe life into stories, making scientific concepts visually engaging and more relatable for children.

18:50 Enriching Education with Poetry:
Poetry isn't just for the language arts classroom -- nor is it solely for high school and college. We share personal anecdotes and strategies on how integrating poetry into science education can ignite curiosity and enhance the learning experience for students (including preschoolers)

20:58 A Glimpse into the Future
Megan teases upcoming projects and reflects on the continued focus on nonfiction and poetry collaborations. We also reminisce about childhood books that have left an indelible mark and shaped our perspectives.

Book Recommendations:

• Great Gusts: Winds of the World and the Science Behind Them by Megan Benedict and Melanie Crowder
• Sea Wolves, Keeper of the Rainforest by Megan Benedict and Melanie Crowder (July 2024)

Connect with Megan Benedict:

• Instagram 
• Facebook 
• Pinterest
• Website
• Teaching Resources

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