ReThinking: Raising a new generation of readers with Shannon Hale

In this episode of "Rethinking," Adam Grant interviews children's and young adult author Shannon Hale, joined by Grant's daughter, Joanna. Hale discusses the origin story of her "Princess in Black" series, inspired by her daughter's views on princesses and color. The conversation explores themes of reading, rejection, and the importance of empathy, particularly in children's literature. Hale shares her journey to becoming a writer, the role of rejection in her career, and strategies for nurturing a love of reading in children and adults. The discussion also addresses gender stereotypes in books, the impact of book banning, and the power of stories to promote critical thinking and understanding of diverse human experiences. Hale offers advice for aspiring writers, emphasizing the joy of the writing process and the value of making "bad art."