In this special episode of the Reading Teachers Lounge, hosts Shannon and Mary have an engaging and insightful conversation with acclaimed children's author Kate DiCamillo about treasured stories. They explore Kate's journey as a writer, discussing the profound impact of her debut novel 'Because of Winn-Dixie,' the themes of her books, and the role of animals in her stories. Kate shares her thoughts on writing with empathy, the importance of ending stories with hope, and the joy of reading aloud. Highlights include listener questions about vocabulary development and character inspirations, and Kate's reflections on the magical connection formed between readers and stories.

RESOURCES MENTIONED DURING THE EPISODE:

1. Ferris by Kate DiCamillo *Amazon affiliate link
2. Kate DiCamillo's website
3. Contact Kate via Candlewick Press
   
   Kate DiCamillo
   c/o Candlewick Press
   99 Dover Street
   Somerville, MA 02144
4. Because of Winn-Dixie by Kate DiCamillo *Amazon affiliate link
5. The Tiger Rising by Kate DiCamillo *Amazon affiliate link
6. The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane by Kate DiCamillo *Amazon affiliate link
7. The Tale of Despereaux by Kate DiCamillo *Amazon affiliate link
8. Louisiana's Way Home by Kate DiCamillo *Amazon affiliate link
9. Facebook page for Kate DiCamillo
10. Story resources for teachers
11. Mercy Watson Books by Kate DiCamillo *Amazon affiliate link
12. Flora and Ulysses by Kate DiCamillo *Amazon affiliate link
13. Raymie Nightingale by Kate DiCamillo *Amazon affiliate link
14. our 6.16 Delightful Word Learning episode
15. Bookworms reading curriculum

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