<![CDATA[Bookwards]]>e5fb8691-c96f-50eb-ad95-42a6e4161f63Tue, 19 May 2026 18:51:23 +0000Captivate.fmDana & Samhttps://artwork.captivate.fm/2cfc4a1d-46de-47e5-b50e-38ce892dd801/gHLrKeBqHb0MWh5f59uZQ02E.jpgBookwardsDana & SamDana & SamJoin Sam and his mom, Dana, as they read and review the top middle grade kids and young adult books. Each episode features a discussion about a new book, with Sam’s youthful curiosity and Dana’s adult insight providing a unique perspective. Encouraging listeners to read along, Bookwards offers a fun and engaging way for book-loving kids and their parents to discover and discuss great literature together.https://bookwards.captivate.fmfalseepisodicnopodcastPoverty, Friendship, and Finding Hope: Front Desk by Kelly YangPoverty, Friendship, and Finding Hope: Front Desk by Kelly YangOn this episode of BookWards, Sam and Dana celebrate the end of season one and discuss Front Desk by Kelly Yang. They explore Mia Tang’s life as a young Chinese immigrant helping her family run a struggling motel while facing poverty, bullying, and racism. Sam praises the book’s realistic portrayal of hardship and community, while both hosts discuss memorable characters like the cruel Mr. Yao, Mia’s friend Lupe, and the motel’s long-term residents who become like family.

]]>On this episode of BookWards, Sam and Dana celebrate the end of season one and discuss Front Desk by Kelly Yang. They explore Mia Tang’s life as a young Chinese immigrant helping her family run a struggling motel while facing poverty, bullying, and racism. Sam praises the book’s realistic portrayal of hardship and community, while both hosts discuss memorable characters like the cruel Mr. Yao, Mia’s friend Lupe, and the motel’s long-term residents who become like family.

]]>6a606c33-f53c-4659-b244-2739e2d27e0bTue, 19 May 2026 09:00:00 -040027:09falsefull2020Ideas, Plot Twists, and Writing Secrets: Interview with Jennifer NielsenIdeas, Plot Twists, and Writing Secrets: Interview with Jennifer NielsenOn this episode of Bookwards, Sam and Dana sit down with bestselling author Jennifer A. Nielsen to talk about her incredible books, including The False Prince and The Free State of Jax. They dive into how she comes up with ideas, her writing process, and why first drafts are meant to be messy. Jennifer shares fun behind-the-scenes stories about creating her characters (including some surprising real-life inspiration), what makes a great villain, and how she builds heroes readers love. It’s a fun and insightful conversation filled with writing tips, storytelling secrets, and inspiration for readers and aspiring writers alike.

]]>On this episode of Bookwards, Sam and Dana sit down with bestselling author Jennifer A. Nielsen to talk about her incredible books, including The False Prince and The Free State of Jax. They dive into how she comes up with ideas, her writing process, and why first drafts are meant to be messy. Jennifer shares fun behind-the-scenes stories about creating her characters (including some surprising real-life inspiration), what makes a great villain, and how she builds heroes readers love. It’s a fun and insightful conversation filled with writing tips, storytelling secrets, and inspiration for readers and aspiring writers alike.

]]>772612a9-faf9-4629-a2db-a6355e00914fTue, 28 Apr 2026 09:00:00 -040018:19falsefull1919Private Planes, Pretzels, and $5 Million: Millionaires for the Month by Stacy McAnultyPrivate Planes, Pretzels, and $5 Million: Millionaires for the Month by Stacy McAnultyOn this episode of Bookwards, hosts Sam and Dana dive into Millionaires for the Month, a wild story about two middle schoolers challenged to spend $5 million in just 30 days—with strict rules that make it much harder than it sounds.

They break down the book’s most outrageous moments (from private planes to ruined collectibles), debate how they would spend the money themselves, and explore the differences between the two main characters—ambitious, driven Benji and quiet, struggling Felix. Along the way, they discuss friendship, money, pressure, and what it really means to have (or not have) everything.

]]>On this episode of Bookwards, hosts Sam and Dana dive into Millionaires for the Month, a wild story about two middle schoolers challenged to spend $5 million in just 30 days—with strict rules that make it much harder than it sounds.

They break down the book’s most outrageous moments (from private planes to ruined collectibles), debate how they would spend the money themselves, and explore the differences between the two main characters—ambitious, driven Benji and quiet, struggling Felix. Along the way, they discuss friendship, money, pressure, and what it really means to have (or not have) everything.

]]>3e95fe71-dad6-4645-81c4-3b829b694683Fri, 20 Mar 2026 09:00:00 -040022:09falsefull1818Orphans, Micronations, and Murder Mysteries: The Free State of Jax by Jennifer A. NielsenOrphans, Micronations, and Murder Mysteries: The Free State of Jax by Jennifer A. NielsenOn this episode of Bookwards, Sam, Dana, and special guest Charlie dive into a story about a 12-year-old orphan who creates his own micronation to escape a difficult home life. Living on a raft in the middle of a lake, Jax forms the Free State of Jax, complete with a constitution, citizens, and legal standing. But as his new country grows, Jack uncovers a local mystery involving stolen money, a man accused of murdering his brother, and a town hiding the truth. It’s a smart, funny, and surprisingly educational story about independence, justice, and finding where you belong.

]]>On this episode of Bookwards, Sam, Dana, and special guest Charlie dive into a story about a 12-year-old orphan who creates his own micronation to escape a difficult home life. Living on a raft in the middle of a lake, Jax forms the Free State of Jax, complete with a constitution, citizens, and legal standing. But as his new country grows, Jack uncovers a local mystery involving stolen money, a man accused of murdering his brother, and a town hiding the truth. It’s a smart, funny, and surprisingly educational story about independence, justice, and finding where you belong.

]]>4061bcb8-afde-44e8-ab9b-bf58bb1ea45fTue, 20 Jan 2026 09:00:00 -040019:47falsefull1717The TripleThe TripleOn this episode of Bookwards, we dive into three magical adventures: The Black Market by Jed Alexander, where a secret Halloween marketplace holds mysterious surprises; The Memory Spinner by C.M. Cornwell, about a forgetful kid who turns to a magical dressmaker for help; and Encantadora’s Guide to Mastros and Magic by Sarah J. Mendonca, featuring a brave girl hunting monsters to save her family. Join Sam and Dana as they read, review, and explore these enchanting stories.

]]>On this episode of Bookwards, we dive into three magical adventures: The Black Market by Jed Alexander, where a secret Halloween marketplace holds mysterious surprises; The Memory Spinner by C.M. Cornwell, about a forgetful kid who turns to a magical dressmaker for help; and Encantadora’s Guide to Mastros and Magic by Sarah J. Mendonca, featuring a brave girl hunting monsters to save her family. Join Sam and Dana as they read, review, and explore these enchanting stories.

]]>3e623d0e-beb4-41f7-9255-3c3eb8c10ae2Mon, 22 Dec 2025 09:00:00 -040017:01falsefull1616Fairies, Rules, and Hidden Dangers: Fablehaven by Brandon MullFairies, Rules, and Hidden Dangers: Fablehaven by Brandon MullSam and Dana explore Fablehaven by Brandon Mull, where siblings Kendra and Seth discover their grandparents’ estate is actually a hidden sanctuary for magical creatures. When Seth’s curiosity unleashes chaos, the kids must face witches, demons, and dark forces to save their family. Sam and Dana debate the world-building, the underwhelming villains, and how Fablehaven stacks up against Impossible Creatures.

]]>Sam and Dana explore Fablehaven by Brandon Mull, where siblings Kendra and Seth discover their grandparents’ estate is actually a hidden sanctuary for magical creatures. When Seth’s curiosity unleashes chaos, the kids must face witches, demons, and dark forces to save their family. Sam and Dana debate the world-building, the underwhelming villains, and how Fablehaven stacks up against Impossible Creatures.

]]>d34a6fd6-1e9f-4643-97f4-6c309db7cd64Mon, 03 Nov 2025 09:00:00 -040023:01falsefull1515Powers, Bullies, and Vanishing Adults: Gone by Michael GrantPowers, Bullies, and Vanishing Adults: Gone by Michael GrantSam and Dana dive into Gone by Michael Grant, a dark and unpredictable story where everyone over 15 suddenly disappears. With kids left to survive alone, new powers emerge, animals mutate, and chaos takes over as bullies like Kane and Drake fight for control. They unpack the shocking twists, the gruesome survival scenes, and why this book might be one of the most intense reads yet.

]]>Sam and Dana dive into Gone by Michael Grant, a dark and unpredictable story where everyone over 15 suddenly disappears. With kids left to survive alone, new powers emerge, animals mutate, and chaos takes over as bullies like Kane and Drake fight for control. They unpack the shocking twists, the gruesome survival scenes, and why this book might be one of the most intense reads yet.

]]>6a92b542-9b6d-46ca-a3b7-43fdea427592Mon, 22 Sep 2025 09:00:00 -040026:26falsefull1414Glass Slippers, Frogs, and Fairytales: The Land of Stories by Chris ColferGlass Slippers, Frogs, and Fairytales: The Land of Stories by Chris ColferSam and Dana journey into The Land of Stories, where twins Alex and Connor tumble into a fairytale world filled with magic, danger, and familiar characters. They break down the daring quest for the Wishing Spell, the big plot twists, and why Froggy might be the most charming character of all.

]]>Sam and Dana journey into The Land of Stories, where twins Alex and Connor tumble into a fairytale world filled with magic, danger, and familiar characters. They break down the daring quest for the Wishing Spell, the big plot twists, and why Froggy might be the most charming character of all.

]]>e5c36bae-6a00-4193-b35a-a9b334a6272dMon, 25 Aug 2025 09:00:00 -040021:47falsefull1313Battles, Buggers, and Brilliant Kids: Ender’s Game by Orson Scott CardBattles, Buggers, and Brilliant Kids: Ender’s Game by Orson Scott CardIn this episode, Sam and Dana dive into Ender’s Game by Orson Scott Card, a sci-fi classic about a child genius trained to save Earth from an alien invasion. They unpack Ender’s moral struggles, the book’s surprising twist, and why this story still resonates with readers today.

]]>In this episode, Sam and Dana dive into Ender’s Game by Orson Scott Card, a sci-fi classic about a child genius trained to save Earth from an alien invasion. They unpack Ender’s moral struggles, the book’s surprising twist, and why this story still resonates with readers today.

]]>0d769fbe-00bc-4573-a6fe-14364d85ea85Mon, 21 Jul 2025 09:00:00 -040021:12falsefull1212Fairies, Trolls, and Kid Criminals: Artemis Fowl by Eoin ColferFairies, Trolls, and Kid Criminals: Artemis Fowl by Eoin ColferIn this episode of Bookwards, we dive into Artemis Fowl, the story of a 12-year-old criminal mastermind who discovers the secret world of fairies. When Artemis kidnaps a fairy officer to ransom her for gold, a thrilling battle unfolds between human cunning and magical power. We explore the clever plot, rich world-building, and memorable characters, plus the surprising blend of science and fantasy that makes this book a standout.

]]>In this episode of Bookwards, we dive into Artemis Fowl, the story of a 12-year-old criminal mastermind who discovers the secret world of fairies. When Artemis kidnaps a fairy officer to ransom her for gold, a thrilling battle unfolds between human cunning and magical power. We explore the clever plot, rich world-building, and memorable characters, plus the surprising blend of science and fantasy that makes this book a standout.

]]>0f68376b-82bd-4b1b-96b3-53f0f89cf635Tue, 10 Jun 2025 09:00:00 -040021:47falsefull1111Hacking, Missions, and False Identities: City Spies by James PontiHacking, Missions, and False Identities: City Spies by James PontiThis week, Sam and Dana dive into City Spies, where five talented kids are recruited by MI6 for a top-secret mission in Paris. They break down the action-packed plot, the fun of seeing spies with real-world skills (no magic needed!), and why Mother is one of their favorite adult characters so far. Plus, they recap the current standings for their Bookwards Book Awards, reviewing the top contenders so far for categories like Best Main Character and more.

]]>This week, Sam and Dana dive into City Spies, where five talented kids are recruited by MI6 for a top-secret mission in Paris. They break down the action-packed plot, the fun of seeing spies with real-world skills (no magic needed!), and why Mother is one of their favorite adult characters so far. Plus, they recap the current standings for their Bookwards Book Awards, reviewing the top contenders so far for categories like Best Main Character and more.

]]>68c8f77f-3bb6-4ea3-8411-87f24126f1dfMon, 28 Apr 2025 09:00:00 -040024:09falsefull1010Magic, Friendship, and the Price of Destiny: The School for Good and Evil by Soman ChainaniMagic, Friendship, and the Price of Destiny: The School for Good and Evil by Soman ChainaniIn this episode of Bookwards, Sam and Dana explore the enchanting world of The School for Good and Evil by Soman Chainani. They discuss the book’s unique take on fairy tales, the deep bond between protagonists Sophie and Agatha, and how the story challenges traditional notions of good and evil. From the magic of the school itself to the twists that keep readers guessing, they break down what makes this YA fantasy stand out.

]]>In this episode of Bookwards, Sam and Dana explore the enchanting world of The School for Good and Evil by Soman Chainani. They discuss the book’s unique take on fairy tales, the deep bond between protagonists Sophie and Agatha, and how the story challenges traditional notions of good and evil. From the magic of the school itself to the twists that keep readers guessing, they break down what makes this YA fantasy stand out.

]]>79a98805-5c8a-426d-acbe-f06b81a41643Tue, 01 Apr 2025 09:00:00 -040020:16falsefull99Rules, Pranks, and a Secret Past: Middle School, The Worst Years of My Life by James PattersonRules, Pranks, and a Secret Past: Middle School, The Worst Years of My Life by James PattersonIn this episode of Bookwards, Sam and Dana dive into Middle School: The Worst Years of My Life by James Patterson. They discuss Rafe Katchadorian’s hilarious and rebellious quest to break every school rule, the deeper struggles he faces at home, and the surprising emotional twists that make this book more than just a comedy. From outrageous pranks to heartfelt moments, they explore what makes Rafe’s story so memorable.

]]>In this episode of Bookwards, Sam and Dana dive into Middle School: The Worst Years of My Life by James Patterson. They discuss Rafe Katchadorian’s hilarious and rebellious quest to break every school rule, the deeper struggles he faces at home, and the surprising emotional twists that make this book more than just a comedy. From outrageous pranks to heartfelt moments, they explore what makes Rafe’s story so memorable.

]]>9b7b8e22-a86b-44d0-bc63-756fbfe7aea2Thu, 27 Feb 2025 09:00:00 -040022:31falsefull88Elves, Secrets, and Kidnappers: Keeper of the Lost Cities by Shannon MessengerElves, Secrets, and Kidnappers: Keeper of the Lost Cities by Shannon MessengerIn this episode of Bookwards, Sam and Dana dive into Keeper of the Lost Cities by Shannon Messenger. They discuss Sophie Foster, a 12-year-old girl who discovers she’s an elf with incredible powers, leaving her human life behind to join the Lost Cities. From the fast-paced plot to Sophie’s emotional journey, friendships, and rivalries, they break down what makes this book so engaging.

]]>In this episode of Bookwards, Sam and Dana dive into Keeper of the Lost Cities by Shannon Messenger. They discuss Sophie Foster, a 12-year-old girl who discovers she’s an elf with incredible powers, leaving her human life behind to join the Lost Cities. From the fast-paced plot to Sophie’s emotional journey, friendships, and rivalries, they break down what makes this book so engaging.

]]>a5acfa7b-dfa4-4e97-932d-268560881be6Tue, 04 Feb 2025 09:00:00 -040023:02falsefull77Magic, Mysteries, and Mini Dragons: Impossible Creatures by Katherine RundellMagic, Mysteries, and Mini Dragons: Impossible Creatures by Katherine RundellIn this episode of Bookwards, Sam and Dana dive into Katherine Rundell’s Impossible Creatures, discussing its magical world, intriguing supporting characters, and the slower start to the adventure. They explore themes of friendship, bravery, and the captivating quests across the Archipelago, sharing their thoughts on the story’s strengths and areas for improvement.

]]>In this episode of Bookwards, Sam and Dana dive into Katherine Rundell’s Impossible Creatures, discussing its magical world, intriguing supporting characters, and the slower start to the adventure. They explore themes of friendship, bravery, and the captivating quests across the Archipelago, sharing their thoughts on the story’s strengths and areas for improvement.

]]>d3ace7e4-efa7-4c00-b80d-3fbde95984ebThu, 09 Jan 2025 09:00:00 -040023:10falsefull66Secrets, Trials, and Murder: Theodore Boone: Kid Lawyer by John GrishamSecrets, Trials, and Murder: Theodore Boone: Kid Lawyer by John GrishamIn this episode of Bookwards, Sam and Dana discuss Theodore Boone: Kid Lawyer by John Grisham. The story follows 13-year-old Theo Boone, a middle schooler with a passion for law, whose parents are both lawyers. When a high-profile murder trial begins in his town, Theo becomes involved after learning about a crucial witness who knows the identity of the murderer but is too afraid to come forward. Theo faces the difficult decision of whether to expose the witness and risk danger or let the trial proceed without this key information. Tune in as Sam and Dana explore the moral dilemmas, side characters, and twists of this legal thriller.

]]>In this episode of Bookwards, Sam and Dana discuss Theodore Boone: Kid Lawyer by John Grisham. The story follows 13-year-old Theo Boone, a middle schooler with a passion for law, whose parents are both lawyers. When a high-profile murder trial begins in his town, Theo becomes involved after learning about a crucial witness who knows the identity of the murderer but is too afraid to come forward. Theo faces the difficult decision of whether to expose the witness and risk danger or let the trial proceed without this key information. Tune in as Sam and Dana explore the moral dilemmas, side characters, and twists of this legal thriller.

]]>874d1f34-a472-4415-968b-5afbd56a3e33Mon, 23 Dec 2024 15:00:00 -040021:03falsefull55Gods, Killer Chickens, and Immortality: Percy Jackson and the Chalice of the Gods by Rick RiordanGods, Killer Chickens, and Immortality: Percy Jackson and the Chalice of the Gods by Rick RiordanIn this episode of Bookwards, Sam and Dana explore Percy Jackson and the Chalice of the Gods by Rick Riordan, a new adventure where Percy, Annabeth, and Grover must recover the stolen Chalice of the Gods. This magical cup grants immortality, and its loss could spell disaster. Along the way, the trio faces killer chickens, mischievous minor gods, and big questions about aging, immortality, and what it means to embrace life’s natural course.

]]>In this episode of Bookwards, Sam and Dana explore Percy Jackson and the Chalice of the Gods by Rick Riordan, a new adventure where Percy, Annabeth, and Grover must recover the stolen Chalice of the Gods. This magical cup grants immortality, and its loss could spell disaster. Along the way, the trio faces killer chickens, mischievous minor gods, and big questions about aging, immortality, and what it means to embrace life’s natural course.

]]>c7e199b4-fac0-4025-b154-a6e92b6760bcThu, 05 Dec 2024 18:00:00 -040020:03falsefull44Spies, Moles, and Explosives: Spy School by Stuart GibbsSpies, Moles, and Explosives: Spy School by Stuart GibbsIn this episode of Bookwards, Sam and Dana dive into Spy School by Stuart Gibbs, a thrilling adventure following 12-year-old Ben Ripley, an ordinary kid unexpectedly recruited into a secret CIA academy. Believing he’s accepted for his math skills, Ben soon learns the truth—he’s merely bait in a mission to uncover a dangerous mole within the school.

]]>In this episode of Bookwards, Sam and Dana dive into Spy School by Stuart Gibbs, a thrilling adventure following 12-year-old Ben Ripley, an ordinary kid unexpectedly recruited into a secret CIA academy. Believing he’s accepted for his math skills, Ben soon learns the truth—he’s merely bait in a mission to uncover a dangerous mole within the school.

]]>0bf05a99-2a89-40a4-a741-3e00cbc4b348Mon, 21 Oct 2024 15:30:00 -040020:11falsefull33Curses, Treasure, and Lizards: Holes by Louis SacharCurses, Treasure, and Lizards: Holes by Louis SacharIn this episode of Bookwards, Sam and Dana explore Holes by Louis Sachar, a captivating story about Stanley Yelnats, a boy sent to a juvenile prison camp where digging holes is the daily punishment. As they unravel the mysteries of Camp Green Lake, Sam and Dana dive into the book’s themes of friendship, fate, and buried secrets.

]]>In this episode of Bookwards, Sam and Dana explore Holes by Louis Sachar, a captivating story about Stanley Yelnats, a boy sent to a juvenile prison camp where digging holes is the daily punishment. As they unravel the mysteries of Camp Green Lake, Sam and Dana dive into the book’s themes of friendship, fate, and buried secrets.

]]>281e0fc3-960b-4ac7-96de-5003e7a0d7aaThu, 19 Sep 2024 12:00:00 -040025:35falsefull22Billionaires, Hypnotists, and Alligators: Exploring Unplugged by Gordon KormanBillionaires, Hypnotists, and Alligators: Exploring Unplugged by Gordon KormanIn this episode of Bookwards, Sam and Dana dive into Gordon Korman’s 2021 novel, “Unplugged.” Set at the Oasis, a phone-free wellness camp, the story revolves around Jett, a rule-breaking billionaire’s son, and other colorful characters. Sam and Dana explore the unique character dynamics and the book’s intriguing plot twists, including the mystery surrounding the camp’s villain.

]]>In this episode of Bookwards, Sam and Dana dive into Gordon Korman’s 2021 novel, “Unplugged.” Set at the Oasis, a phone-free wellness camp, the story revolves around Jett, a rule-breaking billionaire’s son, and other colorful characters. Sam and Dana explore the unique character dynamics and the book’s intriguing plot twists, including the mystery surrounding the camp’s villain.

]]>fb6692b6-f6f6-4811-bffa-8c0f099f082dFri, 16 Aug 2024 15:15:00 -040015:54falsefull11