In this episode, we talk with Constance Hays Matsumoto, co-author of Of White Ashes, a sweeping historical novel inspired by her husband Kent’s family history during World War II. Guided by Shakespeare’s “What’s past is prologue,” Connie writes to help us learn from the past and inspire positive change today.

She shares how she and Kent uncovered his parents’ stories of Japanese American internment and the bombing of Hiroshima — and why they chose to tell it themselves rather than through a documentary or ghostwriter. We discuss the deep research behind the book, how she balanced fact with fiction, and how the Japanese principle of gaman (enduring the unbearable with dignity) shaped her characters Ruby and Koji.

Connie also talks about the challenges and rewards of co-writing with a spouse, the response from readers, and her hopes for Of White Ashes to help keep these stories alive for future generations.

Connect with Connie and learn more at www.matsumotobooks.com or reach out via her site’s contact page.

In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Tom Doyle, author of Happy to Be Me, the first book in the Indigo Blue Adventures series. Tom takes us behind the scenes of Indigo Blue’s creation—sharing the spark that ignited this empowering story and helped shape Indigo’s affirmations and adventures.

We explore the collaborative process with his illustrator and how her vibrant artwork brought Indigo’s world to life. Tom also dives into the deeper themes at the heart of his book: the power of positive affirmations, the importance of celebrating individuality, and nurturing emotional intelligence in young readers.

Tom shares touching stories of feedback from parents, educators, and children, and discusses how Happy to Be Me can be a valuable tool for families and teachers alike—encouraging discussions about self-worth, resilience, and self-love.

Finally, he gives us an exciting look at what’s next for Indigo Blue and what readers can look forward to in future adventures.

Discover more about the series at indigoblueadventures.com and find Happy to Be Me at the Kensington Row Bookshop, Barnes & Noble and Amazon.

UPCOMING events:

Saturday, July 26th at Wonderland Books in Bethesda at 10:30 a.m.

Sunday, August 3rd at Bethany Beach Books in Bethany Beach, Delaware at 6:30 p.m.-8:00

Thursday, August 7th at Kensington Row Bookshop for the Read.Imagine.Create! series at 10:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m.

In this engaging episode, we sit down with Jeff Billington, the acclaimed author behind Summer’s Second and Chicken Dinner News, to dive into the heart of his storytelling journey. Jeff shares how listening to his great-grandmother’s tales helped shape his unique narrative voice and how growing up in the Ozark Mountains deeply influenced the vivid setting in his novels.

We explore the emotional depths of his characters—particularly the struggles and resilience of Asher Brock—and discuss what it took to shift gears from young adult fiction to contemporary storytelling. Jeff also offers a sneak peek into the themes he’s excited to explore next.

Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to his work, this episode offers an intimate look at the passion and place behind his powerful prose.

📚 Learn more or connect with Jeff:

• jeffbillington.com

• Kensington Row Authors

• https://www.facebook.com/jeffbillingtonauthor/