Ep. 10: A Worm's Worth

Episode Summary

Jason Reynolds and Irthan, Age 12

7/9/2020

On this week’s episode, 12 year old Brooklynite, Irthan joins forces with the National Ambassador for Young People’s Literature, Jason Reynolds, to grow his story seed about an earthworm that turns into a human every 28 days, on the night of a full moon. Join Irthan and Jason as they meet up at the Youth Wing of the central branch of Brooklyn Public Library where they get to know each other and plant the seeds for their collaboration. Then, sit back and listen to the lyrical and timely short story, "Hoo and Wut," that Jason grew out of Irthan’s idea. Click here for complete episode notes.

Before You Listen: You should know that Jason and Irthan talk about police violence during their meeting (15:10). If you haven't already talked to your child about this subject, they may have some questions for you after hearing this episode.

Episode 10 Activity Kit

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This Episode Features

Irthan, age 12

My favorite snack is ... Guacamole

My favorite song to play on the drums is ... Bad by Michael Jackson

My favorite video game is ... Minecraft

My favorite thing to watch or read during quarantine ... I like watching YouTube tutorials and learning about my dream college Full Sail University.

My favorite insect, bug, or animal is ... A worm. Because worms are the least popular. Barely anybody talks about worms. A worm would be interesting and it would put them on an equal status with all the other bugs.

Jason Reynolds

My favorite snack is ... I'm not a big snacker, but I'd probably say grapes. When I was younger it was pecan swirls.

My favorite piece to play on the trumpet when I was little ... There was a song called Fanfare. I still have the muscle memory, and can remember the sequence on the valves, though I have no clue what the notes are anymore.

My favorite videogame ... Hmmm, tough one. Probably Mario Kart.

A fun quarantine read for young people I recommend is ... The Last Last Day of Summer by Lamar Giles

My favorite insect, bug, or animal is ... A dog. I love dogs. Doesn't even really matter what kind of dog. They're all great.

MUSICAL MUSINGS

Be-Terrific Playlist

This playlist is a mix of songs from some of the artists mentioned in Jason and Irthan’s conversation, plus songs we were inspired by when putting this episode together. You can press play right here or listen on Spotify.

BONUS EPISODE

In this special bonus interview, host Betsy Bird chats with the National Ambassador for Young People’s Literature, Jason Reynolds about his collaboration with 12 year old Irthan in last week’s episode, “A Worm’s Worth.” They dive into the story Jason grew, “Hoo and Wut”, and explore its themes of friendship, being seen for who you are, and fairness–all of which, Jason explains, reflects his own values and that of his young collaborator. Jason also shares his writing tips and tells all the listeners out there to challenge your curiosity, that's the way to keep growing your imagination. Click for episode notes and transcript.