Julie Berry on Why We Need Myth and Building Lifelong Readers (E169)
In today’s episode, I’m thrilled to be joined by Julie Berry, New York Times bestselling author and award-winning storyteller. Julie’s works span across genres and age groups, from the NCTE Walden Award–winning Lovely War to the Printz Honor novel The Passion of Dolssa, to middle grade adventures like The Scandalous Sisterhood of Prickwillow Place and the Wishes and Wellingtons trilogy, to heartwarming picture books including The Night Frolic, Happy Right Now, and Cranky Right Now. Her brand-new YA novel, If Looks Could Kill, just released yesterday—congratulations, Julie!
Julie also owns Author’s Note, a charming independent bookstore in Medina, New York, where she fosters community, conversation, and a love of reading.
In this rich conversation, we explore:
How Julie chose the monster and villain at the heart of her latest novel
Why mythology, symbols, and metaphors are essential for making sense of the world
The surprising and powerful benefits of book clubs—especially for middle grade readers
Why cultivating lifelong readers matters so deeply
The joys and positive ripple effects Julie has noticed since opening her bookstore
Julie’s insights remind us of the transformative power of stories, the importance of keeping curiosity alive, and the role books play in shaping thoughtful, imaginative communities.
Connect with Julie:
Books and authors mentioned in the episode:
The Lord of the Rings trilogy by J.R.R. Tolkien
The Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. Lewis
The Hero with a Thousand Faces by Joseph Campbell
Service Model by Adrian Tchaikovsky
Book Flight
The Raging Erie: Life and Labor Along the Erie Canal by Marc S. Ferrara
Heaven's Ditch: God, Gold, and Murder on the Erie Canal by Jack Kelly
New York’s Burned-over District by Spencer W. McBride & Jennifer Hall Dorsey
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