This week, we’re joined by the absolutely delightful Kate DiCamillo. Kate is coming off of a two-year stint as the National Ambassador for Young People’s Literature (so named by the Library of Congress), she’s the current National Summer Reading Champion, she won the 2004 Newbery Medal for The Tale of Despereaux, she won her second Newbery Medal in 2014 for Flora and Ulysses: The Illuminated Adventures, and, oh yeah, she’s also the author of a long list of amazing books.

Her most recent book, Raymie Nightingale, is the story of three unlikely friends over one unforgettable summer. It’s a beautiful book that deals with loss, loneliness, and the meaning of friendship. And in typical Kate DiCamillo fashion, it examines a deep sadness with a twinge of hope and a dash of optimism. I really recommend it.

On this episode, we talk to Kate about perseverance and determination in the face of rejection, the expectations that come with awards and critical acclaim, her writing regimen, and how writing maintains her sanity. We also talk about her amazing character names and where they come from, because – seriously – I defy you to name an author with more evocative names: India Opal Buloni, Despereaux Tilling, Miggery Sow, Baby Lincoln, Francine Poulet, Louisiana Elefante, Beverly Tapinski, and so many more.

You can listen on iTunes, Spotify, TuneIn, or wherever you get podcasts. You can also follow the RSS feed or listen right here!

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Connect:

• Kate DiCamillo is online here.