The Read-Aloud Home

Laura Cunningham

How can we create homes where reading with children happens with ease and enjoyment? How do we know which children's books are good quality? How do we maintain enthusiasm for reading aloud during the early years and beyond? Welcome! It is so great to have you here to join me for this read-aloud revolution. Modern parents are faced with unprecedented levels of technological distractions and endless to-do lists. It is easy to let, days, weeks, months go by without reading to our children. This podcast will give you ideas and inspiration for creating the best possible read-aloud environment in a modern world. You will find tips, tricks and beautiful booklists as well as interviews with literacy experts, authors, illustrators and more to help you cultivate your read-aloud home. Learn how to create a literary feast for the children in your care that will stay with them for the rest of their lives. Whether you are a stay-at-home carer, a working parent or an early childhood worker this podcast has something for you!

  1. Charlotte Mason, 'living books' and reading the classics responsibly with Amber O'Neal Johnston

    APR 22

    Charlotte Mason, 'living books' and reading the classics responsibly with Amber O'Neal Johnston

    "In my home, Charlotte Mason has an afro" - homeschooling mother of four, Amber O'Neal Johnston, talks about how she has adapted the Charlotte Mason philosophy to suit her children. We also talk about books as mirrors, windows and sliding glass doors, questions to ask when you are curating your home library, why we don't need to cancel the classics and so much more. Books, people, websites mentioned: Heritagemom.comA Place to Belong: Celebrating Diversity and Kinship in the Home and Beyond (2022) by Amber O'Neal JohnstonSoul School: Taking Kids On a Joy-Filled Journey Through the Heart of Black American Culture (2025) by Amber O'Neal JohnstonHomegrown: Guidance and Inspiration for Navigating Your Homeschooling Journey (2025) by Amber O'Neal JohnstonSaint Valentine (1992) by Robert SabudaCharlotte Mason (educator and reformer)Stone Girl Bone Girl: The Story of Mary Anning (1999) by Laurence Anholt, illustrated by Sheila MoxleyPride and Prejudice (1813) by Jane AustenThe Wingfeather Saga by Andrew PetersonFrindle (1996) by Andrew ClementWonder (2012) by R.J PalacioThe Windows and Mirrors of Your Child's Bookshelf, Grace Lin TEDx TalkThe Guardian Poll on Australia's best picture bookThe Little House on The Prairie Series by Laura Ingalls WilderThe Birchbark House (1999) by Louise ErdrichOne Big Open Sky (2024) by Lesa Cline-RansomeThe Cosby ShowPollyanna (1913) by Eleanor H PorterCharles Dickens (author)Stories of ColourRedeemed ReaderBiblioguidesMe and Mama (2020) by Cozbi A Cabrera Mufaro's Beautiful Daughters (1987) by John SteptoeA Story About Afiya (2020) by James Berry and Anna Cunha Hip Hop Speaks to Children (2008) by Nikki Giovanni More from Amber: Heritagemom.comInstagram - @heritagemomblog

    56 min
  2. Symbolism, the language of feet and depicting difficult scenes: an interview with Dub Leffler

    APR 12

    Symbolism, the language of feet and depicting difficult scenes: an interview with Dub Leffler

    From his childhood to school workshops to a particular Fleetwood Mac album cover, award-winning writer/illustrator Dub Leffler talks to the The Read-Aloud Home about the many things that impact his work. Find some of Dub's work on my Instagram @thereadaloudhome Books and humans mentioned: Sally Morgan (author)Banksy (artist)Coral Vass (author)Leah Purcell (actor, playwright, director, novelist)Once there was a boy (2011) by Dub LefflerLibrary of CongressSorry Day (2018) by Coral Vass, illustrated by Dub LefflerKevin Rudd (Australian Prime Minister (2007-2010 and briefly in 2013)The Drover's Son (2026) by Leah Purcell, illustrated by Dub Leffler.Quirindi (regional town in Australia)Caroona Aboriginal MissionDick Roughsey (author/artist)Cathie TaskerThe Quinkins (1978) by Dick RoughseyChildcraft: The How And Why Library (Stories and Fables) [volume 2] (1976)Koori Radio, SydneyMargaret CosseyIndij ReadersThe Dreaming SeriesLaughing Zebras AnimationMark Rothko (artist)Henri Rousseau (artist)Tango in the Night by Fleetwood MacThe EaglesClyfford Still (artist)Walking Together (2025) by Coral Vass, illustrated by Dub LefflerShirley Hughes (author/illustrator)John J Muth (author/illustrator)Trevor Jamieson (stage and film actor)Story BoxKevin Rudd (Australian Prime Minister 2007-2010, 2013)Vik MunizVik Muniz Ted TalkBruce Pascoe (writer)Harlyn GeronimoGeronimoBuzz AldrinTony Birch (author/academic/activist)Library of Congress, Young Adventurers: 2015 National Book FestivalJared Thomas (author)Bear and Rat (2021) by Christopher Cheng, illustrated by Stephen Michael KingBig Nuisance (2001) by Junko MorimotoMy Hiroshima (1987) by Junko MorimotoThe Two Bullies (1997) by Junko MorrimottoFlotsam (2006) by David WeisnerArt and Max (2010) by David WeisnerEach Peach Pear Plum (1987) by Janet and Allan Ahlberg**please note that during this talk we discussed Junko Morimoto and upon researching into Junko after the episode I read that sadly she died in 2017. Junko is one of my favourite author/illustrators and I have no doubt her stories and illustrations will be with my children and many other children for the rest of their lives.More from Dub: "Soar" Dub's (new book that will be out in 2026)@DubLefflerdublefflerillustrator.com

    1h 21m
  3. Interview with the founder of Little Modern Reader, Emily Chang

    MAR 10

    Interview with the founder of Little Modern Reader, Emily Chang

    I sat down with fellow zealot Emily Chang from the online secondhand children's book store Little Modern Reader to talk about running a small business, her "past life" as a Chinese antiques specialist, discovering the joy of picture books as an adult and so much more. This episode is not to be missed as it is bubbling with picture book enthusiasm and love! This episode was recorded on Gadigal Land. Books, humans and websites mentioned: www.littlemodernreader.com.auMagic Beach (1990) by Alison LesterWindow (1991) by Jeannie BakerEnjoying the Film Adaptations of Children's Books With Your Kids, an Interview with Nazanin ForghaniAustralian Refugee VolunteersThe Pyjama FoundationOi Frog (2014) by Kes Gray and Jim Field.Heywood Hill in MayfairPokko and the Drum (2019) by Matthew ForsytheMeg and Mog (1972) by Helen Nicoll and illustrated by Jan PieńkowskiWaiting (2015) by Kevin HenkesThe Worrysaurus (2000) by Rachel BrightLittle Modern Reader's Donations GuidelinesEach Peach Pear Plum (1978) by Janet and Allan AhlbergThe Very Cranky Bear (2008) by Nick BlandHenri's Walk to Paris (2012) Saul Bass (illustrator) and Leonore Klein (contributor)Step into the world of award-winning illustrator Max Hamilton.Antonia Pesenti (author)Hilary Bell (illustrator)Bruno Munari's ABC (2003)Miffy by Dick BrunaLeo LionniLittle Blue and Little Yellow (2009) by Leo LionniThe Little House (1942) by Virginia Lee BurtonThis Small Blue Dot (2021) by Zeno Sworder.Jon Klassen (author/illustrator)Interview with Picture Book Activist Lara Cain Gray More from Emily: To the Moon Kidswww.littlemodernreader.com.au@littlemodernreaderSign up for bookish news here

    50 min
  4. Step into the world of award-winning illustrator Max Hamilton.

    FEB 10

    Step into the world of award-winning illustrator Max Hamilton.

    What's in this episode? In this week's episode, Australian author/illustrator Max Hamilton takes us through what a typical day of work looks like when she is creating a children's picture book. We also talk about her past career, how she tackles a new project, how she organises her picture books and the importance of community for children's book creators. This episode was recorded on the land of the Gadigal and Dharawal People. Books, humans (and other interesting things) mentioned: My Possum Plays the Drums (2020) written by Catherine Meatheringham, illustrated by Max HamiltonWhen the Waterhole Dries Up (2021) written by Kaye Baillie, illustrated by Max HamiltonTasmanian Devil (2022) written by Claire Saxby, illustrated by Max HamiltonWhere the Lyrebird Lives (2022) written by Vicki Conley, illustrated by Max HamiltonThe Beehive (2024) written by Megan Daley, illustrated by Max HamiltonOur Home (2024) written by Catherine Meatheringham, illustrated by Max HamiltonCockatoo (2024) written by Kaye Baillie, illustrated by Max HamiltonDogs with Jobs (2025) written and illustrated by Max HamiltonThe Wilder Zoo Trilogy by Tina Strachan, illustrated by Max HamiltonAustralian Society of Authors [ASA]Erica Wagner (artist and editor)Shirley Hughes (author/illustrator)Maurice Sendak (author/illustrator)Bob Graham (author/illustrator)Jeannie Baker (author/illustrator)Anna Pignataro (author/illustrator)Rachel Robson (children's book buyer for Gleebooks in Australia)Gleebooks@gleebooks_kidsThe Society of Children's Book Writer's and Illustrators [SCBWI]Margaret Hamilton (author and publisher)Margaret Hamilton BooksPinerolo - The Children's Book CottageAntonia Pesenti (illustrator)Hilary Bell (author)Alphabetical Sydney (2013) By Antonia Pesenti and Hilary BellNumerical Street (2015) By Antonia Pesenti and Hilary BellSummer Time (2019) By Antonia Pesenti and Hilary BellThe Lion and the Bird by Marianne DubucGnomes by Wil Huygen and Rein PoortvlietRichard Scarry's Best Story Book EverPhoebe Wahl (author/illustrator)Little Golden booksBeatrix Potter (author/illustrator)May Gibbs (author/illustrator)The Brambly Hedge Series by Jill BarkleyWindy Hollow Books More from Max: @mhdesignillustration maxhamiltonillustration.com.au

    50 min
  5. Unschooling, illustration and capturing difficult emotions with children’s book creator Phoebe Wahl.

    12/14/2025

    Unschooling, illustration and capturing difficult emotions with children’s book creator Phoebe Wahl.

    In this week's episode Phoebe Wahl talks about her unschooled and free-spirited childhood, her studies at Rhode Island School of Design, her picture book creation process and so much more. Books and people mentioned: Sonya's Chickens (2015) by Phoebe WahlBackyard Fairies (2018) by Phoebe WahlThe Blue House (2020) by Phoebe WahlLittle Witch Hazel (2021) by Phoebe WahlPhoebe's Diary (2023) by Phoebe WahlRhode Island School of DesignWestern Washington UniversityEloise Rickman @mightymotherPaper Mice (2019) by Megan Wagner LLoyd and illustrated by Phoebe WahlSophie Blackall (author/illustrator)carlemuseum.orgRecommendations from Phoebe: Our Animal Friends At Maple Hill Farm (1974) by Alice and Martin ProvensenAn Owl and Three P***y Cats (1994) by Alice and Martin ProvensenShaker Lane (1987) by Alice ProvensenJanet and Allan Ahlberg (authors)The Jolly Postman or Other People's Letters (1986) by Janet and Allan AhlbergEach Peach Pear Plum (1989) by Janet and Allan AhlbergThe Baby's Catalogue (1982) by Janet and Allan AhlbergPeekaboo/Peepo (1981) by Janet and Allan AhlbergAbuela (1997) by Arthur Dorros, illustrated Elisa KlevenVera B Williams (author/illustrator)Faith Ringgold (author/illustrator)Aliki (author/illustrator)Tove Jansson (author/illustrator)Gracey Zhang (illustrator)The Big Bath House (2021) by Kyo MaclearOne More Jar of Jam (2023) by Michelle SumovichBeatrice Alegmana (author/illustrator)Chirri and Chirra (2016) by Kya Doi (translated from Japanese by Yuki Kaneko)Possum's Harvest Moon (1998) by Anne HunterAlison Lester (author/illustrator)Rosie Sips Spiders (1988) by Alison LesterMore from Phoebe @phoebewahl phoebewahl.com

    58 min
  6. Practical tips for creating a read-aloud family home in a modern world with Courtney Adamo

    11/11/2025

    Practical tips for creating a read-aloud family home in a modern world with Courtney Adamo

    In this week's episode Courtney Adamo talks to the Read-Aloud Home about her new book The Family Home, which explores how your home can help elevate family life and help you spend more quality time as a family including reading together. Books and humans mentioned The Family Home: Inspiring Ideas for a Home Filled with Joy (2025) by Courtney and Michael AdamoAnd the Train Goes (2007) by William BeeA Sick Day for Amos McGee (2010) by Phillip Stead, illustrated by Erin SteadIra Sleeps Over (1972) by Bernard WaberAlexander and the Terrible, Horrible No Good Very Bad Day (1972) by Judith Viorst, illustrated by Ray CruzThe Tiger who Came to Tea (1968) by Judith KerrThe Bog Baby (2008) by Jeanne Willis and Gwen MillwardMake Way for Ducklings (1941) by Robert McCloskeyThe Little House (1942) by Virginia Lee BurtonWe're Going on a Bear Hunt (1989) by Michael Rosen, illustrated by Helen OxenburyThe National Geographic SeriesCharlotte's Web (1952) by E.B White, illustrated by Garth WilliamsJulian is a Mermaid (2018) by Jessica LoveBlueberries for Sal (1948) by Robert McCloskeyThe Paper Dolls (2012) by Julia DonaldsonWho Sank the Boat (1982) by Pamela AllenSimplicity Parenting (2009) by Kim John PayneThe Olivia Series by Ian FalconerIra Says Goodbye (1988) by Bernard WaberMem Fox (Author)Julia Donaldson (Author)Oliver Jeffers (Author/Illustrator)The Harry Potter Series by J.K. RowlingThe Wings of Fire Series by Tui T SutherlandBeware of the Frog (2008) by William BeeMore from Courtney Instagram - @courtneyadamo Substack -courtneyadamo.substack.com/

    1h 3m
  7. Interview with picture book activist Lara Cain Gray

    06/01/2025 ·  BONUS

    Interview with picture book activist Lara Cain Gray

    Lara talks us through her new book 'A Grown Up's Guide to Picture Books'. We also talk about picture books and why they are important, how we can extend our picture book reading and thinking differently about the role of picture books in society Books and humans mentioned: A Grown Up's Guide to Picture Books (2024) by Lara Cain GrayTucking Mummy In'(1987) by Morag Loh, illustrated by Donna RawlinsThe Lion, the Witch and the Wonder essays (2024) by Katherine RundellUnderstanding Comics: The Invisible Art (1993) by Scott McCloudPiano Fingers by Caroline MagerlBriony Stewart (author/illustrator)Freya Blackwood (illustrator)Maurice Sendack (author/illustrator)Shirley Hughes (author/illustrator)Lynley Dodd (author/illustrator)Alfie Gets in First (1981) by Shirley HughesJulia Donaldson (author)Axel Sheffler (illustrator)Tabby McTat (2009) by Julia Donaldson and Axel ShefflerN.E.A.T ReadingTony Flowers (illustrator)Antonia Pessenti (illustrator)The Little Mermaid (1837) by Hans Christian AndersenThe Oi Frog and Friends series by Kes Gray and Jim FieldEvery Night at Midnight (2023) by Peter CheongAccidentally Kelly Street (2022) by Briony Stewart, Lyrics by Tim O'ConnorThe Biloela FamilyBlue Whale Blues (2015) by Peter Carnavas Picture book resources: Your Kid's Next Readstorylinks.booklinks.org.auNational Centre for Australian Children's LiteratureMore from Lara: @lara_cain_graywww.laracaingray.com (Educator Toolkit for 'A Grown Up's Guide to Picture Books' available)

    56 min

About

How can we create homes where reading with children happens with ease and enjoyment? How do we know which children's books are good quality? How do we maintain enthusiasm for reading aloud during the early years and beyond? Welcome! It is so great to have you here to join me for this read-aloud revolution. Modern parents are faced with unprecedented levels of technological distractions and endless to-do lists. It is easy to let, days, weeks, months go by without reading to our children. This podcast will give you ideas and inspiration for creating the best possible read-aloud environment in a modern world. You will find tips, tricks and beautiful booklists as well as interviews with literacy experts, authors, illustrators and more to help you cultivate your read-aloud home. Learn how to create a literary feast for the children in your care that will stay with them for the rest of their lives. Whether you are a stay-at-home carer, a working parent or an early childhood worker this podcast has something for you!

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