Humor, Story, and the Magic of Middle Grade with Gordon Korman (E162)
In today’s episode, I’m thrilled to chat with Gordon Korman, a true legend in the middle grade world. With over 100 books under his belt (106, to be exact!), Gordon has something for every young reader—from the most reluctant to the endlessly curious.
His latest release, Snoop, follows a screen-obsessed boy who finds himself grounded—and discovers that life gets trickier when screens are all you have. Gordon shares how he began his writing career at age 14, what keeps him excited about writing for middle grade, and why he believes humor and the right book at the right time can completely change a child’s reading life.
Episode Highlights:
Gordon’s unexpected milestone of hitting 100 books—and how kids helped him see its impact.
Why middle grade is the most powerful age to reach readers.
The inspiration behind his latest novel, Snoop.
How humor helps kids learn, connect, and grow.
Encouragement for parents of reluctant readers—and why it only takes one “yes” book to spark a love of reading.
This is a fun, thoughtful, and inspiring conversation for anyone who loves books, works with kids, or just wants to remember the magic of finding that book.
Connect with Gordon Korman:
Books and authors mentioned in the episode:
The Fort by Gordon Korman
Rearview Window by Alfred Hitchcock
Island Trilogy by Gordon Korman
Superfudge by Judy Blume
Where the Red Fern Grows by Wilson Rawls
Into Thin Air by Jon Krakauer
The Hallmarked Man by Robert Galbraith
Book Flight
Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing by Judy Blume
Jack Henry books by Jack Gantos
The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy by Douglas Adams
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