The Reader's Heart | Guest: Allie Millington

In this episode, Jennifer chats with Allie Millington about the profound impact of literature, particularly middle grade books, on identity and connection. They discuss the themes of loneliness and bravery in Millington's book Olivetti,'and the importance of fostering authentic connections in a hyper-connected world. Millington shares her experiences with young readers during school visits, the significance of endorsements from figures like Tom Hanks, and her upcoming projects, including a new middle grade novel and a picture book. Show notes, including episode transcripts and information about connecting with this episode's guest, can be found here.  Chapters Books became an escape and a safe place for me. I want to write books that touch young people's lives. Middle schoolers are my favorite age group. The antidote to loneliness is connection. Olivetti is a story about bravery. Middle grade is not just for 9 to 12 year olds. Empathy and acceptance are important in storytelling. I want to encourage conversations about loneliness. Tom Hanks' endorsement changed everything for me. Typewriters connect different generations.