E Train Talks: A Literacy Initiative

Ethan Minton: Founder of E Train Talks, Inc.

I'm Ethan, an award-winninliteracy advocate, book reviewer, and the host of E Train Talks. E Train Talks is a nonprofit dedicated to spreading book joy to children in low-income communities and schools. To date, I've donated over 8,000 new books throughout the Sacramento area. Please join my podcast community by subscribing to my channel and following my reading journey at www.etraintalks.org I accept no payment for my book reviews or interviews. If you'd like to support my non profit and help me give new books to underprivileged children, please donate at: https://www.paypal.com/US/fundr

  1. 1D AGO

    Purim Children's Book Author Panel Celebrating Three New PJ Library books!

    Purim is almost here, and I’ve the perfect way to start preparing for the holiday fun! Watch my interview to discover three brand new Purim themed stories that bring the holiday to life for young readers.In this special episode, I'm interviewing three wonderful children’s book authors: Nancy Churnin, Barbara Kimmel, and Varda Livney. Their stories beautifully capture Jewish holidays and traditions, bringing them to life for young readers. In this conversation, we spotlight their new board books, which help kick off PJ Library’s brand new Toddler Book Launch, a meaningful initiative that shares stories written especially for toddlers and distributed for families to enjoy in homes across the country and around the world by PJ Library. Watch and Enjoy! Purim begins the evening of Mon, Mar 2, 2026 – Tue, Mar 3, 2026Subscribe to my Channel to be kept in the know! BOOKS FEATURED IN THIS VIDEO:PURIM BASKETSWritten by Nancy Churnin ‪@nancychurninbooks‬ Illustrated by Amy Schimler-Safford Publication Date: February 1, 2026Publisher: PJ Publishing ‪@PJLibraryOfficial‬ Publication Date: February 1, 2026Board Book: Ages 6 Months to 2 YearsPurim Baskets will be distributed to 20,000 one-year olds this February.Find out more at: www.nancychurnin.comPURIM POSSIBILITIESWritten by Barbara Kimmel @barbarakimmelIllustrated by Irina AvgustinovichPublisher: PJ Publishing ‪@PJLibraryOfficial‬ Publication Date: February 1, 2026Board Book: Ages 3 years and upFind out more at: https://barbarakimmelwrites.com/Purim Possibilities will be distributed to 39,000 three-year old subscribers this February.TODAY I AM A HAMANTASCH: A POEM FOR PURIMWritten by Varda LivneyIllustrated by Varda LivneyPublisher: PJ Publishing ‪@PJLibraryOfficial‬ Publication Date: February 1, 2026Board Book: Ages 6 Months to 2 YearsFind out more at: https://vardaart.com/Today I Am a Hamantasch will be distributed to 9,000 zero-year old subscribers in February.

    31 min

  2. JAN 26

    Tu B’Shvat Children's Book Author Panel! 🌳📚

    I’m excited to be hosting a special children's author panel conversation celebrating Tu B’Shvat, the Jewish New Year of the Trees, a eco-friendly holiday that invites us to reflect on growth, roots, and our connection to the natural world.🌳📚I’m honored to be interviewing three children’s book creators whose special Tu B’Shvat themed stories engage toddlers, young readers and families alike. Sitting across from me virtually are multi–award-winning picture book author Karen Rostoker-Gruber; yoga teacher and picture book author Lisa Schreiber; and award-winning picture book and middle-grade author Pamela Ehrenberg! If you love the Tu B'Shvat holiday as much as I do, or if you're interested in learning more about this wonderful holiday, I invite you to click play and help me celebrate the Birthday of the Trees!In this special "E Train Talks Earth" Jewish Holiday episode, I'm highlighting three special toddler/preschool Tu B'Shvat stories:"Lessons From A Tree: Yoga Poses for Happy Kids" by author Lisa Schreiber "Happy Birthday, Trees" by Karen Rostoker-Gruber  @karenrostoker-gruber6493  "Planting Parsley" by Pamela Ehrenberg A 2026 E Train Talks "Earth" special episodePowered by E Train Talks, Inc.Where Every Child's Journey Begins with a Book.

    32 min

  3. JAN 16

    Award-Winning Author Torrey Maldonado Talks About his Picture Book JUST RIGHT!

    In this interview I speak with one of my favorite storytellers, award-winning author Torrey Maldonado! Torrey is a light in the darkness, and in the words of the great Maya Angelou, he's a "rainbow" in the world's cloud, spreading joy and positivity everywhere he goes, including in his books! I'm thrilled to have the opportunity to shine a light on his first picture book JUST RIGHT through this inspirational talk!Born and raised in Brooklyn, Torrey Maldonado is an acclaimed author and educator whose work impacts middle grade, young adult, and elementary school literature. He approaches thirty years teaching in NYC and has been celebrated by two Chancellors as a top culturally responsive educator. Named Best Books of the Year by NPR, The Washington Post, Oprah, and The NY Times, HANDS, WHAT LANE?, TIGHT, and SECRET SATURDAYS are inspired by his and his students’ lives. They're praised for their authenticity about friendship, family, and choices. As someone who reads and loves Torrey Maldonado's books, I invite you to watch my newest interview with Torrey and click play my reviews of Torrey's outstanding books.

    42 min

  4. 12/30/2025

    My Interview With New York Times Bestselling Author of YA & Middle-Grade, Lance Rubin!

    My talk with New York Times Bestselling author Lance Rubin was nothing short of legendary! From deep talks about the pros and cons of AI, to a fun look back at his career in theater, to the celebration of his latest stories, this interview had it all!Lance is the author of the “Denton Little’s Death Date” a page turning phenomenal YA series, as well as a brand-new fantastic middle-grade book entitled “Zed Moonstein Makes a Friend,” a uniquely relevant and read worthy story I can’t recommend enough! And coming in early 2026, Lance’s newest YA novel, "16 Forever," which I’m incredibly excited about.I highly recommend checking out all of Lance Rubin's books, you won’t regret it!Be sure to check out my “Zed Moonstein Makes a Friend” book review

    37 min

  5. 12/09/2025

    E Train Talks Hanukkah Heroes 2025 Author Panel!

    WELCOME TO MY HANUKKAH HEROES 2025 AUTHOR PANEL! In this video, I'm speaking with five wonderful Jewish storytellers, authors and illustrators, who've brought some of the sweetest and most meaningful Festival of Lights books to life. Their stories brighten the season for young readers from preschool through middle school. I invite you to join in the Hanukkah reading celebration, as we peek into these five amazing authors creative journeys.Henry Herz: https://www.henryherz.com/Dara Henry: https://www.darahenry.com/Janie Emaus: https://www.janieemaus.com/Dr. Kerry M. Olitzky: https://kerryolitzky.com/homeMartha Simpson: https://www.martha-seif-simpson.com/Now's your chance to click play and spend some time learning, smiling and celebrating Hanukkah! Thanks for tuning into my channel. Please support my literacy journey by liking and subscribing! E Train Talks, Inc.Where Every Child's Journey Begins with a Book. E Train Talks, Inc., is a 501©(3) nonprofit founded and led by Ethan (known as E Train), at 11-years-old. Now, 4 years later, at 15, Ethan is an award-winning literacy advocate, book reviewer, kindness ambassador and Giving Tuesday teen leader. E Train is committed to celebrating early literacy and inspiring a lifelong love of reading in children of all ages. Through engaging interviews with children's authors, book reviews, school visits, and literacy-focused events, E Train sparks curiosity and encourages children to discover the magic of reading. By championing diverse voices and stories, E Train not only supports language development and comprehension skills but also helps children build empathy, confidence, and a strong educational foundation.

    1 hr

  6. 09/27/2025

    My Interview with #1 NYT Bestselling Author & Documentary Producer Josh Mensch!

    Welcome to another exciting episode of E Train Talks, where I sit down with history expert, acclaimed writer, and documentary producer Josh Mensch! Josh is the #1 New York Times bestselling author of gripping historical nonfiction stories uncovering real-life secret plots and assassination attempts throughout American history. Books full of intrigue and history lessons co-authored with NYT Bestselling Author Brad MeltzerWhether you’re a history buff, aspiring writer, or just someone who loves books that read like thrillers, this conversation is full of insight, storytelling, and inspiration.Watch now and discover the secret side of history!Check out Josh Mensch's fascinating books:THE FIRST CONSPIRACY: THE SECRET PLOT TO KILL GEORGE WASHINGTON, NYT BESTSELLER THE LINCOLN CONSPIRACY: THE SECRET PLOT TO KILL AMERICA’S 16TH PRESIDENT—AND WHY IT FAILED, NYT BESTSELLERTHE NAZI CONSPIRACY: THE SECRET PLOT TO KILL ROOSEVELT, STALIN, AND CHURCHILL, NYT BESTSELLER THE JFK CONSPIRACY: THE SECRET PLOT TO KILL KENNEDY: AND WHY IT FAILED, NYT BESTSELLER

    38 min

  7. 09/16/2025

    Celebrating 25 Years of BECASUE OF WINN-DIXIE with Newbery Medalist, Author Kate DiCamillo

    This episode is a truly special celebration! I’m honored to sit down virtually with award-winning children's author Kate DiCamillo for an exclusive interview commemorating the 25th anniversary of her beloved debut novel, BECAUSE OF WINN-DIXIE. First published in 2000, this timeless story of friendship, love, and belonging has touched millions of young readers around the world and continues to be a timeless favorite among children’s literature.Kate DiCamillo is a two-time Newbery Medal winner and the author of many beloved children's books, including THE TALE OF DESPEREAUX, FLORA & ULYSSES and the MERCY WATSON series. In this interview, we revisit the magic of BECAUSE OF WINN-DIXIE, explore the inspirations behind many of her heartfelt stories, and talk about Kate's incredible writing journey. Kate DiCamillo is a writing legend; whether you grew up with WINN-DIXIE, connected with DESPEREAUXor, or are discovering Kate’s work for the first time, this 25th anniversary interview is a celebration you won’t want to miss!Thank you for watching my interview with author Kate DiCamillo. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the bell to join us for more inspiring conversations with your favorite authors and creators.

    27 min

  8. 09/05/2025

    My Book Review of ZED MOONSTEIN MAKES A FRIEND By NY Times Best-Selling Author Lance Rubin

    This is my book review of ZED MOONSTEIN MAKES A FRIEND, a captivating coming-of-age middle-grade masterpiece by New York Times Bestselling Author Lance Rubin.ZED MOONSTEIN MAKES A FRIEND is an unforgettable reading journey of self-discovery, a story that explores the ins and outs of true friendship, learning to embrace who you are, and reclaiming authentic connections. With a unique blend of heart, humor, and sharp insight, Rubin's crafted a story that is both futuristic and deeply personal. Watch my book review to find out more!"Acclaimed author Lance Rubin makes his middle grade debut with a hilariously terrifying, terrifyingly hilarious story of a boy who gets more than he bargained for when he creates an A.I. best friend. "I highly recommend ZED MOONSTEIN MAKES A FRIEND to anyone who loves sci-fi, coming-of-age stories, or anyone who has ever felt like an outsider searching for their place in the world. I couldn't put this book down! A 10/10 MUST-READ!

    3 min
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Ratings & Reviews

4.1
out of 5
9 Ratings

About

I'm Ethan, an award-winninliteracy advocate, book reviewer, and the host of E Train Talks. E Train Talks is a nonprofit dedicated to spreading book joy to children in low-income communities and schools. To date, I've donated over 8,000 new books throughout the Sacramento area. Please join my podcast community by subscribing to my channel and following my reading journey at www.etraintalks.org I accept no payment for my book reviews or interviews. If you'd like to support my non profit and help me give new books to underprivileged children, please donate at: https://www.paypal.com/US/fundr

Information

  • Creator
    Ethan Minton: Founder of E Train Talks, Inc.
  • Years Active
    2022 - 2026
  • Episodes
    228
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Ethan Minton: Founder of E Train Talks, Inc.
  • Show Website
    E Train Talks: A Literacy Initiative