Stories from the Ashes Podcast

A Literary Podcast from the minds of Reshelving Alexandria.

A Reshelving Alexandria podcast where we pontificate on good books and the stories that define and refine us. Join Ambre and her literary friends as they discuss what they're reading and interview others in the lit world. We talk stories in all their forms because stories have the power to shape and change hearts and minds. Come join the conversation! https://www.reshelvingalexandria.com www.reshelvingalexandria.com

  1. 07/14/2025

    S4E4 The Chance We Took: Creating an Indie Star Wars Epic

    This is a unique episode for us—our very first foray into film as a storytelling medium! Since recording, we’ve had several filming days under our belt, along with some truly fun behind-the-scenes moments. Below, I’ve shared a few of my favorites: 🎥 A time-lapse of an 18' lofted tent going up in our Jedi camp. 🦸‍♂️ Two amazing actors proving that grown men love wearing capes. 📣 A link to our promo video and the socials where you can follow along: Instagram, YouTube, and our GoFundMe This whole experience has been such a joy—especially getting to share it with my girls. I can’t wait to see the finished short film once Palmer wraps up filming and postproduction, and I’m looking forward to sharing even more about the journey with all of you! (If you keep scrolling, I’ve included some stills as a bonus at the bottom of the page!) Also in this episode…We chat about a few favorites, including: * a beloved book series that’s will come as no surprise to anyone * and a random but delightful influencer who just might feed your Jane Austen obsessions- Jake Phillips, theculturedbumpkin Reshelving Alexandria is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and help support our work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Your support makes a difference! ✨ You’re still here! Fantastic! Here are some quick shots I took of some of the sets and props- I hope you enjoy! Inara and me at the end of a 17 hour filming day (it’s hours past midnight at this point). An 18’ Imperial control console built specifically to cover a low bookshelf at the library. I’m in love with this accessory for Silas’ character. It’s a battery from the 1950’s. A jedi master checking out the lofted tent and campsite at large. Gemma is an expert log keeper for the camera and mics. So proud of her! We had the honor of filming at Hancher Auditorium. This is the restaurant scene and it was our first long day with a 6 a.m. call time- it went so well but I could barely walk that night! I love watching Palmer and Rebecca work together. Mothers and sons are such a special relationship! Get full access to Reshelving Alexandria at www.reshelvingalexandria.com/subscribe

    53 min
  2. 05/05/2025

    S4E3 From Canvas to Page: Sitting Down with Annie Parsons

    Annie Parsons is a graduate homeschooler who lives at home, saves her money for family trips to England, and somehow still finds time to read widely, support her friends, teach remotely, and charm preschoolers during storytime at the library. She’s an illustrator and storyteller with a quiet wit, a love of video games, and a deep appreciation for the little things that make life feel magical. Her art reflects all of that—warm, whimsical, and full of heart. Find her here:InstagramWebsiteAnnie’s book: Stone Soup Stone Soup resources and coloring pages Skillshare Classes Substack Books mentioned/discussed in this episode: Framed by Frank Cottrell Boyce Women of the Word: How to Study the Bible with Both Our Hearts and Our Minds by Jen Wilkin The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle The Artist Who Painted the Blue Horse by Eric Carle The Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. Lewis The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien Picture This: How Pictures Work Molly Bang The Grey Lady and the Strawberry Snatcher by Molly Bang Goose by Molly Bang The Yellow Ball by Molly Bang Frost Light by Danielle Bullen Sparrow in the Sun by Danielle Bullen 17:00 St. Patrick's Day Shamrocks by Mary Berendes Nellie Bly: America’s Greatest Reporter by Iris Noble; republished by Renewed Books 5/25 Northanger Abbey by Jane Austen, republished by Renewed Books Ten Days in a Madhouse: A Story of the Intrepid Reporter Nellie Bly by Nellie Bly A Race Around the World: The True Story of Nellie Bly & Elizabeth Bisland by Caroline Starr Rose; illustrated by Alexandra Bye Nellie Vs. Elizabeth: Two Daredevil Journalists’ Breakneck Race around the World by Kate Hannigan; illustrated by Rebecca Gibbon Sam and Dave Dig a Hole by Mac Barnett; illustrated by Jon Klassen Luli and the Language of Tea by Andrea Wang; illustrated by Hyewon Yum Umami by Jacob Grant Saturday by Oge Mora Thank You, Omu by Oge Mora This is Worship: art by Anthony Gorola World Famous Paintings by Rockwell Kent (a book of art) The Jesus Storybook Bible narrated by David Suchet- the story of Leah Kiki’s Delivery Service by Eiko Kadono Video Games We Love: Hello Kitty: Island AdventureAnimal CrossingThe Master’s Pupil Ambre’s kids favorite Poirot episode: “The Veiled Lady” Leuchtturm journals Thanks for visiting Reshelving Alexandria! This post is free, so feel free to share it with a friend—or three! 📚✨ Reshelving Alexandria is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and help support our work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Your support makes a difference! ✨ Get full access to Reshelving Alexandria at www.reshelvingalexandria.com/subscribe

    1h 20m
  3. 03/05/2025

    S4E2 Poetry, Fantasy, and Sharing Your Stories Online with Ali Noël

    Our guest this week is Ali Noël. Ali lives with her three young children in the rainy shadow of Mount Rainier. When she isn't spear-heading her first year of homeschooling or chasing her stubborn bulldog around the yard, you can find Ali whittling poetry and chipping away at her biblical fiction novel. Ali had a B.S. in Biblical Studies from Indiana Wesleyan University and is currently a poetry intern for Twenty Hills Publishing. Some of Ali’s most recent poetry publications and other places to find her: Light of the World published by Vessels of Light The Day Bringer published by Vessels of Light Too Often I Forget published by Calla Press Publishing, Spring Literary Journal Tenderly, He, published by Calla Press Publishing, Spring Literary Journal Watch As It Wakes published by Storyboard Community Spring Journal Book 1 in The Ratcatcher ChroniclesThe Kingdom of GallimaufriaChapter One: The Boy from Ravo From the Desk of Periwinkle Twist- Substack Instagram: The.Poetess.Life PeriwinkleTwist_Writes Books referenced and discussed in this episode: Redeeming Love (please read reviews when deciding if this is a good read for You) Sense and Sensibility by Jane Austen Little House on the Prairie series (specifically Farmer Boy) The Joy Luck Club Harry Potter To Kill a Mockingbird Emma Wingfeather Saga Shel Silverstein’s poems The Brontë Sisters books Northanger Abbey by Jane Austen Mary Oliver (her complete works) Favorite Poems, Old and New “The Wreck of the Hesperus” by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow Anne of Green Gables The Pied Piper of Hamelin The Princess and the Goblin Give and Take Hidden Truths The Awakening of Miss Prim The Lord of the Rings Resource: House of Humane Letters: How to Read Fairy Tales class with Angelina Stanford. A Year with Mary Oliver free guide from Amy Parilee Rickards of @livingwellread. 📢 Shoutout to Bandersnatch! They’re in the final week of their Kickstarter for a fantastic new book—a collection of children’s poetry from living poets! If you love sharing fun, playful poetry with your kids, now’s the time to support this project. Check it out before the campaign ends next week! Reshelving Alexandria is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and help support our work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Your support makes a difference! ✨ Thanks for visiting Reshelving Alexandria! This post is free, so feel free to share it with a friend—or three! 📚✨ Get full access to Reshelving Alexandria at www.reshelvingalexandria.com/subscribe

    1h 14m
  4. 02/11/2025

    S4E1 Books in Motion: A Dramatic Storytime with Rebecca LeVake

    Welcome back to Season 4! In today’s episode, I’m chatting with Rebecca LeVake about how to make picture books even more fun by acting them out with your kids. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or just looking for new ways to engage little (and big!) readers, Rebecca’s got some great ideas to bring stories to life in an interactive and playful way. Grab your kids, a favorite picture book, and let’s dive in! To learn more about Rebecca’s reading adventures and the educational journey of her family, be sure to check out her website! Books shared in this episode: Where the Red Fern Grows by Wilson Rawls The Outsiders by S.E. Hinton To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee Bodie and Brock Thoene book series for older teens and adults 16+ The Zion Chronicles, The Zion Covenant, Shiloh Legacy, The Jerusalem ChroniclesThe Zion Legacy- they’ve written more, but these are the ones we’ve read. The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien Roll of Thunder Hear My Cry by Mildred D. Taylor Song of the Trees by Mildred D. Taylor Once on a Time by A.A. Milne -Picture Books That Are Perfect for Beginning: Simple, Engaging, and Fun!- One-Dog Canoe by Mary Casanova and Ard Hoyt The Mitten by Jan Brett (mistakenly referred to as “The Hat” in the episode) Elephant and Piggie books by Mo Willems Guess How Much I Love You by Sam McBratney Little Red Hot by Eric A. Kimmel Armadilly Chili by Helen Ketteman (a Little Red Hen story) Song and Dance Man by Karen Ackerman Roxaboxen by Barbara Cooney The Pumpkin Runner by Marsha Diane Arnold Caps for Sale by Esphyr Slobodkina The Farmer in the Dell by Alexandra Wallner Get full access to Reshelving Alexandria at www.reshelvingalexandria.com/subscribe

    54 min
  5. 12/16/2024

    S3E9 🎙️The Heart of Christmas: Michael Tinker’s Music and Mission 🎶

    This week, we’re thrilled to welcome UK artist Michael J. Tinker to the podcast! Michael is a gifted musician and storyteller whose work blends faith, creativity, and heart in a way that resonates with listeners of all ages. In this episode, we delve into his incredible Christmas album, discussing the inspiration behind the songs and the absolute joy of weaving gospel truths into festive music. We also explore Michael's broader ministry and the ways he uses his talents to share stories of hope and redemption. Whether you’re already a fan of his music or discovering him for the first time, this conversation will leave you inspired and ready to add some new tunes to your holiday playlist! Tune in for an episode filled with warmth, humor, and a little Christmas magic! You can connect with Michael and discover all the creative pies his fingers are in by visiting his website here. You can support Michael by ordering his music directly through his store here. The King Has Arrived by Michael J. Tinker (In case you don’t listen-my family absolutely LOVE this Christmas adventure album!) Michael’s entire music catalogue for streaming is here on Bandcamp. Adventures of the Juniper tv show, free on YouTube. YouTube Christmas playlist. Muppet “Pigs in Space”- YouTube link The Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. Lewis Jungle Jam and Friends the Radio Show Calvin and Hobbes by Bill Watterson Commando comic series Charlie and the Chocolate Factory by Roald Dahl Fantastic Mister Fox by Roald Dahl Adventures in Odyssey the Radio Show Morning & Evening by Charles Spurgeon The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien Cry, the Beloved Country by Alan Paton The Jack Reacher Series by Lee Child The Green Ember Series by S.D. Smith The Princess Bride by William Goldman As You Wish by Cary Elwes - Audiobook Faith, Hope and Carnage by Nick Cave and Seán O’Hagan- Content Consideration: Lots of swearing Nellie Bly: America’s Greatest Reporter by Iris Noble- Coming in January 2025 from Renewed Books! Thanks for listening to Stories from the Ashes! This episode is free so please share it and encourage a friend with a new holiday album! Stay in the loop and enrich your reading life! Subscribe now to unlock a treasure trove of book lists, engaging podcast content, and encouraging articles. Your literary journey begins with a simple click. Subscribe today! Get full access to Reshelving Alexandria at www.reshelvingalexandria.com/subscribe

    1h 9m
  6. 09/11/2024

    S3E8 Donuts, Ducks, and Drawing: A Dive into Robert McCloskey’s World

    Today’s episode is extra special for all you classic children’s book lovers! I had the absolute pleasure of sitting down with Carrie Halim, the Curator of the Robert McCloskey Museum, who (let’s be honest) is basically living the dream. If you’ve ever imagined what it’s like to be surrounded by Make Way for Ducklings, Blueberries for Sal, and all things McCloskey, you’re in for a treat. Carrie shares how she fell in love with McCloskey’s work, the magic of curating such an iconic collection, and some behind-the-scenes stories from the museum. Whether you’re a long-time fan or just discovering McCloskey’s timeless books, this episode will leave you inspired and ready to revisit your favorites. Celebrate Robert McCloskey’s Ohio Roots: A Day of Donuts, Harmonica, and Kaleidoscopes! Join us this Saturday, September 14th, for the grand finale of summer at the McCloskey Museum! We're celebrating Robert McCloskey’s Ohio heritage and literary legacy with a day full of fun and creativity. Enjoy donuts, harmonica tunes, and kaleidoscope-making as we honor the beloved author and illustrator. Special tributes from authors Glenn McCarty and Gary D. Schmidt, along with duckling and Lentil sculptor Nancy Schon, will make this event even more memorable. Catch a performance of Lentil at the Hamilton Flea at 11 AM, and then join us at the museum from 12-4 PM to continue the festivities. It’s all happening on McCloskey’s birthday weekend at 20 High Street, Hamilton, Ohio. For more details, visit our Facebook group at McCloskey Wonder Works! Books in this episode: The Complete Tales of Winnie-The-Pooh by A. A. Milne Frederick by Leo Lionni The Princess and the Goblin by George MacDonald Pilgrim’s Inn Elizabeth Goudge Time of Wonder by Robert McCloskey (on sale at time of posting!) Lentil by Robert McCloskey Homer Price books by Robert McCloskey Centerburg Tales (also titled More Homer Price) by Robert McCloskey Henry Reed series by Keith Robertson; illustrated by Robert McCloskey: Henry Reed, Inc. Henry Reed's Journey Henry Reed's Babysitting Service Henry Reed's Big Show Henry Reed's Think Tank Make Way for Ducklings by Robert McCloskey Blueberries for Sal by Robert McCloskey Madeline by Ludwig Bemelmans The Story About Ping by Marjorie Flack; illustrated by Kurt Wiese Robert McCloskey by Gary D. Schmidt Where the Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak Doodle’s Mountain by Amanda M. Brindley; illustrated by Sofia Rector The Misadventured Summer of Tumbleweed Thompson by Glenn McCarty; illustrated by Joe Sutphin Journey Cake, Ho! by Ruth Sawyer; illustrated by Robert McCloskey Burt Dow, Deep-Water Man : A Tale of the Sea in Classic Tradition by Robert McCloskey Pocket Full of Colors: The Magical World of Mary Blair, Disney Artist Extraordinaire Amy Guglielmo; illustrated by Jacqueline Tourville Tom Sawyer by Mark Twain Huckleberry Finn by Mark Twain The Silver Chair by C.S. Lewis John Philip Duck by Patricia Polacco Once On a Time by A. A. Milne The Magic Hill by A. A. Milne The Childcraft books Reshelving Alexandria is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support our mission, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to Reshelving Alexandria at www.reshelvingalexandria.com/subscribe

    1h 7m
  7. 07/15/2024

    S3E7 Boys and Books: A Read-Aloud Journey with Kirsten Hill

    In this episode, we sit down with homeschool mom Kirsten Hill to discuss the joys and challenges of reading aloud to a primarily male audience. Kirsten shares her insights on selecting engaging books for boys, keeping their attention, and fostering a love of reading through captivating read-aloud sessions. Whether you're a parent, teacher, or librarian, you'll find valuable tips and recommendations to enhance your read-aloud experiences with boys. Betsy-Tacy by Maud Hart Lovelace The Mixed-Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler by E.L. Konigsburg A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L’Engle The Chestry Oak by Kate Seredy The White Stag by Kate Seredy A Tree for Peter by Kate Seredy A Tune in the Tree by Maud Hart Lovelace The Anna Hibiscus books by Atinuke Anne of Green Gables by L.M. Montgomery Understood Betsy by Dorothy Canfield Rilla of Ingleside by L.M. Montgomery Sherlock Holmes by Arthur Conan Doyle Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. Lewis The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien The Wingfeather Saga by Andrew Peterson The Chronicles of Prydain by Lloyd Alexander Percy Jackson and the Olympian series by Rick Riordan Baby Island by Carol Ryrie Brink Island of the Blue Dolphins by Scott O’Dell Banner in the Sky by James Ramsey Ullman Carry On, Mr. Bowditch by Jean Lee Latham Johnny Tremain: A Story of Boston in Revolt by Esther Forbes Owls in the Family by Farley Mowat Rascal by Sterling North Harry Potter by J.K. Rowling Berenstain Bears by Stan and Jan Berenstain Treasure Island by Robert Louis Stevenson Landmark books Guadalcanal Diary (Landmark) The Bronze Bow by Elizabeth George Speare The Witch of Blackbird Pond by Elizabeth George Speare Never Cry Wolf by Farley Mowat Detectives in Togas by Henry Winterfeld The Wednesday Wars by Gary D. Schmidt A Rover’s Story by Jasmine Warga The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien The Wilderking Trilogy by Jonathan Rogers Thank you for reading Reshelving Alexandria . This post is public so please share it! Get full access to Reshelving Alexandria at www.reshelvingalexandria.com/subscribe

    1h 11m
5
out of 5
21 Ratings

About

A Reshelving Alexandria podcast where we pontificate on good books and the stories that define and refine us. Join Ambre and her literary friends as they discuss what they're reading and interview others in the lit world. We talk stories in all their forms because stories have the power to shape and change hearts and minds. Come join the conversation! https://www.reshelvingalexandria.com www.reshelvingalexandria.com