Inspiring Young Readers: E-Train's Mission to Bring Books AND Empathy to Kids Everywhere

Guest Bio
E-Train is a teenage reading advocate, podcast host, and founder of E-Train Talks Inc., a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting literacy and addressing "book deserts" in underserved areas. Known for his podcast E-Train Talks, where he interviews authors and discusses books, E-Train works to foster a love of reading among young audiences and connect them to books that inspire empathy and curiosity.

Key Discussion Points

• E-Train’s Origin Story
  E-Train’s passion for books began in early childhood, fueled by his parents and cultivated through school activities. He reflects on a formative 4th-grade project where he reviewed books and connected with authors like Lisa Phipps, sparking his realization that book advocacy could be a lifelong pursuit. During the pandemic, he joined virtual book clubs organized by librarians, who he calls "unsung heroes," inspiring him to expand his love for books into public advocacy.

• The Power of Books in Developing Empathy
  E-Train emphasizes that books serve as "windows and mirrors," helping children see the world from different perspectives and develop empathy. He’s especially passionate about spreading this message at upcoming events, including his speaking engagement at the California School Library Association Conference in January, where he’ll connect with school librarians to further his mission of putting books in the hands of children who need them.

• What Kids Want to Read
  E-Train offers insights into genres that resonate with young readers, such as fantasy, mythology, and realistic fiction. These genres provide escapism and relatable scenarios that help kids process social issues. He notes that books like Percy Jackson and Harry Potter continue to captivate young audiences, and emphasizes the need for more stories that address contemporary issues, such as bullying, social media influence, and even first crushes. These realistic themes offer young readers a mirror to navigate their own lives.

• Book Discovery for Kids
  Unlike adults who often use Goodreads or Amazon for recommendations, kids rely on teachers, librarians, and bookstores to find new reads. Independent bookstores, like those supported by Bookshop.org, are instrumental in exposing kids to diverse book selections. E-Train also highlights the role of e-readers in making reading more accessible, especially for families on the go, while maintaining a personal preference for physical books.

Conclusion and Takeaways
E-Train’s journey reminds us that literacy is a powerful tool for personal and social change, especially for young readers. His mission is to inspire empathy, kindness, and resilience through stories. Aspiring authors and those in kidlit can take inspiration from E-Train’s call for more relevant and diverse themes, ensuring that kids feel seen and understood in the books they read.

For more on E-Train’s literacy work and podcast, visit E-Train Talks Inc. or follow along on Bookshop.org to support indie bookstores and discover more kidlit books.