Name: Screenwise
Author: Screenwise

Screenwise Verdict

This is one of those rare kids' podcasts that actually delivers on its educational promise without being boring. Host Kitty Felde knows how to talk with kids, not at them, and the format—real kids discussing books, then hearing from the actual author—is genuinely engaging for the right audience.

The catch: this is for kids who already have some interest in reading. If your kid thinks books are torture, this won't magically convert them. But for kids who are emerging readers, bookworms, or somewhere in between, it's gold. It normalizes talking about literature, shows that authors are real people, and models thoughtful conversation.

The pacing is calm and conversational, which is either a feature or a bug depending on your kid. There are no silly voices, sound effects, or manufactured excitement—just substantive discussion. In a world of overstimulating content, that's refreshing, but it also means this won't compete with high-octane entertainment.

Bottom line: A legitimately enriching podcast that's perfect for car rides, quiet time, or inspiring your next library trip. Just know what you're getting—this is NPR for kids, not a comedy show.

Age Fit

Best for ages 7-12, the sweet spot for middle-grade readers. Younger kids (5-6) can listen if they're advanced readers or just enjoy hearing about books, but the discussion format may be too slow. Teens will likely find it too juvenile unless they're babysitting or nostalgic.

WISE Breakdown

Wholesome

92

A podcast that models thoughtful conversation, active listening, and respectful dialogue between kids discussing books. Host Kitty Felde, an award-winning journalist, creates a warm environment where young readers share opinions and ask questions of authors. The format naturally promotes literacy and communication skills without being preachy.

Imaginative

85

Each episode explores a different novel with middle-grade readers, exposing kids to diverse stories and author perspectives. The interview format invites curiosity about the creative process behind books. While the podcast discusses imagination rather than directly creating it, hearing from real authors about their work sparks literary curiosity and can inspire young readers to think about storytelling.

Safe

95

Extremely safe audio content designed specifically for elementary and middle-grade listeners. No mature themes, explicit language, or inappropriate content. The podcast features curated middle-grade books and controlled conversations with vetted guests. Common Sense Media confirms it promotes literacy and communication without concerning content. Perfect for car rides or playing around the house.

Enriching

88

Strongly educational while remaining entertaining. Kids hear peers articulating thoughts about literature, learn to form and express opinions, and gain direct access to authors discussing their craft. Promotes critical thinking, vocabulary development, and reading comprehension. Named one of the top 10 podcasts for kids by The Times of London and won multiple awards including the California Library Association Technology Award.

Parent Info

✓

Why It Might Be Great

Hearing peers talk about books can motivate reluctant readers more than any adult lecture ever could
Direct author interviews let kids peek behind the curtain of how stories are made
Models how to have thoughtful conversations and articulate opinions without being combative
Award-winning host creates a welcoming space where kids' voices are genuinely heard
20-minute episodes are perfect for car rides or while doing chores

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What to Watch For

This is a slower, conversation-based podcast—kids expecting high-energy entertainment or sound effects will be disappointed
Works best for kids who already like reading or need a gentle nudge, not magic for kids who actively hate books
The featured books vary in topic and age range, so preview episodes if your kid is sensitive to certain themes

Conversation Starters

"What did you think about how those kids talked about the book? Did you agree with their opinions?"
"If you could interview an author, who would you pick and what would you ask them?"
"Have you read any of the books they talked about? Want to add one to our library list?"
"What's something you learned about how authors come up with their stories?"

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