Whispers at Garden Gate

Ivanka Dimitrova
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In the hush of ivy-covered walls and rose-draped gates, the past still whispers. This is Whispers at the Garden Gate, a seasonal literary sanctuary exploring the lives and landscapes behind your favorite classic and contemporary reads. Join me for cozy conversations with authors, curators, and kindred spirits as we sip, stroll, and story-tell our way through the world of beloved literary works. Let’s sit back, relax with a soothing cup of tea, and step into the past, one garden, one story, and one beloved author at a time.

  1. Aug 13

    Laura Ingalls Wilder & the making of a classic: Pamela Smith Hill on the Woman Behind the Stories

    Award-winning biographer, literary scholar, and editor Pamela Smith Hill joins Whispers at the Garden Gate for a thoughtful conversation celebrating the enduring legacy of Laura Ingalls Wilder and the remarkable woman behind one of the world’s most beloved children’s classics. Drawing from decades of research and her acclaimed biography, Too Good to Be Altogether Lost, Pamela reflects on Wilder’s extraordinary journey from pioneer child to celebrated author, the emotional depth and literary craftsmanship of the Little House books, and the discoveries that continue to reshape our understanding of her life and work. Together, we explore why these stories still resonate with readers of every generation and how returning to them as adults reveals new layers of resilience, hope, and humanity. Rich with literary insight, history, and heartfelt reflection, this season finale is both a celebration of an extraordinary American writer and an invitation to rediscover the timeless wisdom found within the pages of the Little House books. Whether you have cherished Laura’s stories since childhood or are returning to them for the very first time, this conversation offers a deeper appreciation for the woman whose voice continues to inspire readers around the world. About the Guest Pamela Smith Hill is a New York Times best-selling editor, author, educator, and expert on Laura Ingalls Wilder. She has taught young adult literature and creative and professional writing at universities in Washington, Oregon, and Colorado, as well as classes on Laura Ingalls Wilder through Missouri State University. Hill has been interviewed for multiple documentaries on Wilder and has appeared on C-SPAN, NPR, PBS, and the BBC for her expertise. As well as three novels for young adults, her books include Pioneer Girl: The Annotated Autobiography and Laura Ingalls Wilder: A Writer’s Life. Visit her at pamelasmithhill.com, or Facebook . About the Series Welcome to Whispers at the Garden Gate, a literary journey into the whispered stories left behind in the pages, places, and legacies of classic authors and their beloved works. In Season Three, we journey into the landscapes of American children’s literature, where prairie horizons, enchanted realms, and humble farmyards become the settings for stories that have shaped generations. Celebrating the works of Laura Ingalls Wilder, L. Frank Baum, and E. B. White, this season marks the beginning of our tribute to America’s 250th anniversary. From Little House on the Prairie to The Wizard of Oz and Charlotte’s Web, our conversations explore how stories of courage, friendship, and imagination help us make sense of the world and our place within it. Join us as we cross these literary frontiers, where hope, wonder, and dreams take flight. Resources & Links • Pamela's Site • ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Whispers at the Garden Gate Experience⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ - Watch Video • ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Sign up to receive our Newsletter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ • Follow Whispers at the Garden Gate: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Our Facebook Page⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠; ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Our Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

  2. Aug 13

    Little Seeds of Big Feelings: Rosie J. Pova on Writing from the Heart

    I am excited to share my inspiring conversation with award-winning children’s author and Picture Book Author Academy founder Rosie J. Pova. We talk about our love for children’s literature, storytelling, and the courage to pursue our dreams. From growing up in Bulgaria and longing to see the world to immigrating to North America and eventually finding her voice as a children’s author, Rosie shares the remarkable journey that led her to write stories filled with heart, hope, and big emotions. Together, we discuss why picture books remain so important in a screen-filled age, how stories help children navigate life’s biggest feelings, and why good storytelling continues to connect generations. With warmth, honesty, and wisdom, Rosie reminds us that it is often the impossible dreams that change our lives and that the stories we share today may become the encouragement someone else needs tomorrow. Whether you’re a reader, writer, parent, or lifelong dreamer, this episode is a beautiful reminder to “keep the magic in your heart” and “dream big always”. About the Guest Rosie is an award-winning children’s book author and writing coach. She’s also the founder of Picture Book Author Academy (PBAA) and the organizer and host of the monthly Agent/Editor workshop series. Rosie has had a passion for writing ever since childhood and enjoys writing children’s books and poetry. Her books have been featured in national publications such as The New York Times and Parents magazine. Visit her at rosiejpova.com, Facebook , and Instagram. About the Series Welcome to Whispers at the Garden Gate, a literary journey into the whispered stories left behind in the pages, places, and legacies of classic authors and their beloved works. In Season Three, we journey into the landscapes of American children’s literature, where prairie horizons, enchanted realms, and humble farmyards become the settings for stories that have shaped generations. Celebrating the works of Laura Ingalls Wilder, L. Frank Baum, and E. B. White, this season marks the beginning of our tribute to America’s 250th anniversary. From Little House on the Prairie to The Wizard of Oz and Charlotte’s Web, our conversations explore how stories of courage, friendship, and imagination help us make sense of the world and our place within it. Join us as we cross these literary frontiers, where hope, wonder, and dreams take flight. Resources & Links • ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Rosie's Site • ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Whispers at the Garden Gate Experience⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ - Watch Video • ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Sign up to receive our Newsletter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ • Follow Whispers at the Garden Gate: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Our Facebook Page⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠; ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Our Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

  3. Aug 13

    Frontier Spirit & the Modern Woman: Laura Bray on Community & Storytelling

    In this episode, we welcome writer, editor, and host of Modern Prairies’s Prairie Pages Book Club Laura Bray. Together, we reflect on the books that shaped our childhoods, the changing perspectives that come with age, and why readers often find themselves sympathizing with Caroline Ingalls as much as Laura. We also discuss what it means to create your own prairie wherever you are, cultivating beauty, simplicity, and a sense of home in everyday life. From favorite books and flowers to treasured literary memories, our conversation wanders through libraries, gardens, and the comforting places where stories take root. Laura shares memories of finding refuge in books during life’s storms, the joys of slowing down, and the simple pleasures that bring meaning to ordinary days. Along the way, we explore beloved classics, the books that have changed us, and the ways stories continue to speak to us differently as we grow older. About the Guest Modern Prairie was co-founded by Melissa Gilbert, beloved actress, storyteller, and advocate for women, alongside Nicole Haase, a seasoned business leader and visionary community builder. Learn more about Modern Prairie at modernprairie.com, follow on Instagram @officialmodernprairie, join Prairie Pages Book Club, and visit Laura’s Cozy Library Substack. About the Series Welcome to Whispers at the Garden Gate, a literary journey into the whispered stories left behind in the pages, places, and legacies of classic authors and their beloved works. In Season Three, we journey into the landscapes of American children’s literature, where prairie horizons, enchanted realms, and humble farmyards become the settings for stories that have shaped generations. Celebrating the works of Laura Ingalls Wilder, L. Frank Baum, and E. B. White, this season marks the beginning of our tribute to America’s 250th anniversary. From Little House on the Prairie to The Wizard of Oz and Charlotte’s Web, our conversations explore how stories of courage, friendship, and imagination help us make sense of the world and our place within it. Join us as we cross these literary frontiers, where hope, wonder, and dreams take flight. Resources & Links • ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Prairie Pages Book Club • ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Modern Prairie Official⁠ • ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Whispers at the Garden Gate Experience⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ - Watch Video • ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Sign up to receive our Newsletter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ • Follow Whispers at the Garden Gate: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Our Facebook Page⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠; ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Our Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

  4. Aug 13

    At Home with the Berenstain Bears: Mike Berenstain on the Stories That Shape Us

    Join me for a delightful conversation with author and illustrator Mike Berenstain as we explore the enduring legacy of The Berenstain Bears and the family story behind one of children’s literature’s most beloved series. From memories of growing up in a house filled with sketches and storyboards to carrying forward the artistic traditions established by Stan and Jan Berenstain, Mike shares heartfelt reflections on creativity, family, and the timeless appeal of stories rooted in everyday life. Together, we venture beyond the familiar world of Bear Country into conversations about the role of illustration in children’s literature, the importance of physical books, artistic influences ranging from Dr. Seuss to Renaissance masters, and why children possess a natural understanding of art. Filled with warmth, humor, and thoughtful insights, this episode is a celebration of storytelling, imagination, and the enduring power of books to connect generations. About the Guest Mike Berenstain is a children’s book author and illustrator known for crafting intricate cult-favorite fantasy collections such as The Creature Catalog and The Troll Book, as well as for his continuous involvement in the writing and illustration of the world-renowned Berenstain Bears stories — created by his parents, Stan and Jan Berenstain — since 1992. Growing up in an ever creative household, Mike attended Philadelphia College of Art and Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts before beginning his professional illustration career in the 1970s. Following the explosion of popularity for the Berenstain Bears in the 1980s, Mike began working full time alongside his parents to create countless stories about the beloved Bear Family, including the spirituality-based Living Lights series with his mother, Jan, in 2008. Find more information about the Berenstain Bears at www.berenstainbears.com. About the Series Welcome to Whispers at the Garden Gate, a literary journey into the whispered stories left behind in the pages, places, and legacies of classic authors and their beloved works. In Season Three, we journey into the landscapes of American children’s literature, where prairie horizons, enchanted realms, and humble farmyards become the settings for stories that have shaped generations. Celebrating the works of Laura Ingalls Wilder, L. Frank Baum, and E. B. White, this season marks the beginning of our tribute to America’s 250th anniversary. From Little House on the Prairie to The Wizard of Oz and Charlotte’s Web, our conversations explore how stories of courage, friendship, and imagination help us make sense of the world and our place within it. Join us as we cross these literary frontiers, where hope, wonder, and dreams take flight. Resources & Links • Mike's Site⁠ • ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Whispers at the Garden Gate Experience⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ - Watch Video • ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Sign up to receive our Newsletter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ • Follow Whispers at the Garden Gate: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Our Facebook Page⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠; ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Our Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

  5. Aug 13

    Reimagining Dorothy: The Journey Beyond the Yellow Brick Road with Virginia Kantra

    In this enchanting episode of Whispers at the Garden Gate, we welcome bestselling author Virginia Kantra, who invites us to step into the magical world of reimagined classics. Together, we journey through the stories of The Wizard of Oz, Anne of Green Gables, and Little Women, as Virginia reflects on transforming beloved childhood heroines into contemporary women navigating identity, creativity, love, and resilience. We dive into the creative process behind literary homages, the emotional power of place in storytelling, and the deeply personal memories connected to books we carry throughout our lives. Virginia shares moving reflections on writing during the pandemic, discovering Ireland through research and travel, finding inspiration in female friendships, and the joy of creating stories rooted in hope. Filled with wisdom, warmth, and literary insights, this conversation is a celebration of readers, writers, and the timeless stories that remind us we are never truly alone. About the Guest Virginia Kantra is the New York Times bestselling author of over thirty novels about strong women, messy families, and the search for a place to call home. Her stories have earned numerous awards including two Romance Writers of America’s RITA® Awards, and two National Readers’ Choice Awards. Married to her college sweetheart, Virginia lives in North Carolina. Visit her at virginiakantra.com , Facebook , and Instagram. About the Series Welcome to Whispers at the Garden Gate, a literary journey into the whispered stories left behind in the pages, places, and legacies of classic authors and their beloved works. In Season Three, we journey into the landscapes of American children’s literature, where prairie horizons, enchanted realms, and humble farmyards become the settings for stories that have shaped generations. Celebrating the works of Laura Ingalls Wilder, L. Frank Baum, and E. B. White, this season marks the beginning of our tribute to America’s 250th anniversary. From Little House on the Prairie to The Wizard of Oz and Charlotte’s Web, our conversations explore how stories of courage, friendship, and imagination help us make sense of the world and our place within it. Join us as we cross these literary frontiers, where hope, wonder, and dreams take flight. Resources & Links • ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Virginia's Site • ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Whispers at the Garden Gate Experience⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ - Watch Video • ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Sign up to receive our Newsletter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ • Follow Whispers at the Garden Gate: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Our Facebook Page⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠; ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Our Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

  6. Aug 13

    Echoes from the Prairie: Inside the World of Laura Ingalls Wilder with Vicki Johnston

    In this episode of Whispers at the Garden Gate, we journey to Mansfield, Missouri, and Rocky Ridge Farm, the home where Laura Ingalls Wilder spent more than six decades of her life and where she wrote the Little House books that would become beloved by generations of readers. Joining us is Vicki Johnston, Supervisor of the Laura Ingalls Wilder Home & Museum, who offers a fascinating glimpse into Laura’s life beyond the pages of the books. Together, we explore Rocky Ridge Farm, the landscape of the Ozarks, the family stories and artifacts preserved there, and the remarkable connection between the woman Laura became and the childhood memories she transformed into literature. From the annual Children’s Literature Festival in Mansfield to the emotional experience of visitors walking through Rocky Ridge Farm, the conversation reflects on why the Little House books still resonate so deeply today. Rich with stories about literary history, museum stewardship, frontier life, and the importance of passing stories from one generation to the next, this episode offers listeners a warm and inspiring beginning to a season dedicated to the timeless magic of children’s books. About the Guest Vicki Johnston is the Museum Supervisor of the Laura Ingalls Wilder Home & Museum. The mission of the Laura Ingalls Wilder Home & Museum is to inspire curiosity and foster learning about the American pioneer experience through the life and literature of Laura Ingalls Wilder by providing engaging and authentic experiences; to preserve, protect, and care for the collection and historic buildings; and to sustain the historic landscape. Learn more about Laura Ingalls Wilder Home & Museum at lauraingallswilderhome.com or find them on their Facebook page. About the Series Welcome to Whispers at the Garden Gate, a literary journey into the whispered stories left behind in the pages, places, and legacies of classic authors and their beloved works. In Season Three, we journey into the landscapes of American children’s literature, where prairie horizons, enchanted realms, and humble farmyards become the settings for stories that have shaped generations. Celebrating the works of Laura Ingalls Wilder, L. Frank Baum, and E. B. White, this season marks the beginning of our tribute to America’s 250th anniversary. From Little House on the Prairie to The Wizard of Oz and Charlotte’s Web, our conversations explore how stories of courage, friendship, and imagination help us make sense of the world and our place within it. Join us as we cross these literary frontiers, where hope, wonder, and dreams take flight. Resources & Links • ⁠⁠⁠⁠Laura Ingalls Wilder Home & Museum • ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Whispers at the Garden Gate Experience⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ - Watch Video • ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Sign up to receive our Newsletter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ • Follow Whispers at the Garden Gate: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Our Facebook Page⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠; ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Our Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

  7. Aug 13

    Giving Marilla Her Due: Sarah McCoy on Voice, Care, & the Women Behind Anne

    To close this very special season, I am honored to welcome bestselling author Sarah McCoy, whose wisdom, warmth, and uplifting spirit are truly a breath of fresh air. In this heartfelt and deeply reflective conversation, we talk about writing, resilience, and her journey into the world of Anne of Green Gables. We speak about Marilla, the quiet strength behind Avonlea, and the seasons of life that shape us into who we become. Sarah reminds us to keep dreaming through every high and low, and to never, ever give up. We also delve into the inspiration behind Marilla of Green Gables, the courage it takes to pursue a creative life, and the emotional truths that connect literature to our own lived experiences. From the realities of the writing journey to the beauty of “recharging” your creative spirit, this conversation is both an intimate portrait of an author’s path and a celebration of the timeless legacy of Lucy Maud Montgomery. Whether you are a devoted reader, an aspiring writer, or simply a kindred spirit, this episode invites you to pause, reflect, and rediscover the stories that bloom within us all. About the Guest SARAH McCOY is the New York Times, USA Today, and international bestselling author of the novels Whatever Happened to Lori Lovely?, Mustique Island, Marilla of Green Gables, The Mapmaker’s Children, The Baker’s Daughter, a 2012 Goodreads Choice Award Best Historical Fiction nominee, the novella “The Branch of Hazel” in Grand Central, The Time It Snowed in Puerto Rico, and Le souffle des feuilles et des promesses (Pride and Providence). Her work has been featured in Newsweek, Real Simple, The Millions, Literary Hub, Writer’s Digest, Huffington Post, Read It Forward, Writer Unboxed, and other publications. She hosted the NPR WSNC Radio monthly program “Bookmarked with Sarah McCoy” and served as a Board Member for the literary nonprofit Bookmarks. Sarah taught English writing at Old Dominion University and at the University of Texas at El Paso. She lives with her husband, Dr. Brian Waterman, their dog Gilbert and cat Tularosa in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. Visit her at sarahmccoy.com or on Instagram @sarahmmccoy. About the Series Welcome to Whispers at the Garden Gate, a literary journey into the whispered stories left behind in the pages, places, and legacies of classic authors and their beloved works. In Season Two, we step into the luminous world of L. M. Montgomery and the broader landscape of Canadian literature. From the beloved world of Anne of Green Gables to compelling historical fiction, our conversations explore how storytelling shapes identity, preserves heritage, and invites us to celebrate the power of the creative spirit. Join us as we open the gates to Canada’s enduring voices, where kindred spirits and timeless tales meet in the quiet wonder of imagination. Resources & Links • ⁠⁠⁠⁠Sarah's Site⁠⁠⁠ • ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Whispers at the Garden Gate Experience⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ - Watch Video • ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Sign up to receive our Newsletter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ • Follow Whispers at the Garden Gate: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Our Facebook Page⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠; ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Our Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

  8. Aug 13

    Stories That Mend: Jeanette Lynes on Care, Connection, and Quiet Strength

    As we near the end of this season, I sit down with novelist, poet, and professor Jeanette Lynes to explore the deep connection between poetry and prose, the power of setting in storytelling, and the persistence required to build a literary career. Jeanette reflects on how reading Anne of Green Gables by Lucy Maud Montgomery first opened her eyes to the emotional power of fiction, and how her love of poetry continues to shape her novels today. Our discussion dives into Lynes’ historical novels, including The Apothecary’s Garden and Paper Birds, and the extensive research behind her portrayals of women’s work during World War II, particularly female codebreakers whose contributions remained secret for decades. About the Guest JEANETTE LYNES is the author of the bestselling novel The Apothecary’s Garden, a finalist for a High Plains Book Award and two Saskatchewan Book Awards. Her second novel, The Small Things That End the World, won the Fiction Prize at the Saskatchewan Book Awards. Her first novel, The Factory Voice, was longlisted for the Giller Prize and a ReLit Award. She has also written seven books of poetry. Her forthcoming non-fiction book, Apron Apocalypse: Lyric Essays, received the John V. Hicks Long Manuscript Award.Visit her at jeanettelynes.ca or on Instagram @lynes.jeanette About the Series Welcome to Whispers at the Garden Gate, a literary journey into the whispered stories left behind in the pages, places, and legacies of classic authors and their beloved works. In Season Two, we step into the luminous world of L. M. Montgomery and the broader landscape of Canadian literature. From the beloved world of Anne of Green Gables to compelling historical fiction, our conversations explore how storytelling shapes identity, preserves heritage, and invites us to celebrate the power of the creative spirit. Join us as we open the gates to Canada’s enduring voices, where kindred spirits and timeless tales meet in the quiet wonder of imagination. Resources & Links • ⁠⁠⁠⁠Jeanette's Site • ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Whispers at the Garden Gate Experience⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ - Watch Video • ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Sign up to receive our Newsletter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ • Follow Whispers at the Garden Gate: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Our Facebook Page⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠; ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Our Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

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About

In the hush of ivy-covered walls and rose-draped gates, the past still whispers. This is Whispers at the Garden Gate, a seasonal literary sanctuary exploring the lives and landscapes behind your favorite classic and contemporary reads. Join me for cozy conversations with authors, curators, and kindred spirits as we sip, stroll, and story-tell our way through the world of beloved literary works. Let’s sit back, relax with a soothing cup of tea, and step into the past, one garden, one story, and one beloved author at a time.

Information

  • Creator
    Ivanka Dimitrova
  • Years Active
    2026
  • Episodes
    20
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Ivanka Dimitrova
  • Show Website
    Whispers at Garden Gate