About this episode
When was the last time you were so captivated by the beauty of the world around you that it stopped you in your tracks? Kate DiCamillo intentionally has those moments daily. In a world that can feel dark and hopeless, she maintains a sense of awe. It’s the force that helps her move through both joy and loss. It’s what allows her to keep noticing the miraculous in the ordinary.
“This is what awe always does. It’s the zoom out. All of a sudden, you can see how tiny and insignificant you are, and you plug into that bigger thing.” — Kate DiCamillo
One of the most beloved voices in children’s literature, Kate is a two-time Newbery medal winner and author of more than 25 books—from Because of Winn-Dixie to The Tale of Despereaux to The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane.
In this episode, Kate returns to the show for the first of “The Second Chapter” conversations with previous guests. This time, Kate reflects on awe, grief, and the beauty that connects them. She shares the moments that have gobsmacked her across decades—from childhood discoveries of “protective coloration” to the painting she has revisited at every stage of her life. Kate also opens up about coping with tragedy and how the best way through those moments in life is “the doing of it.”
Settle in for an honest, hard, and still uplifting conversation with one of the most cherished voices of a generation.
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This week's Beanstack Featured librarian is Chelsea Pisani, a rockstar children's librarian at Maple Valley Branch Library in Akron, Ohio. She returns to share her secret sauce for igniting a love of reading in all kids.
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Listen to the full episode, "Tender Heart: Kate DiCamillo on Awe and Grief," on Apple, Spotify, Castbox, or wherever you get your podcasts. Like what you hear? Please leave a 5-star review, subscribe, and share with someone who will enjoy it!
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Contents
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Chapter 1: The Art of Noticing
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Chapter 2: The Hem of the Garment
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Chapter 3: Charlotte’s Web
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Chapter 4: Ramona the Great
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Chapter 5: Then and Now
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Chapter 6: Beanstack Featured Librarian