Can authors write outside their own identity?

In this episode of The Brave Bookshelf, we explore a powerful and timely question through the lens of Heiress of Nowhere by Stacey Lee — a historical gothic mystery set on Orcas Island in 1918.

We dive into:

Why representation in books matters

The mission behind We Need Diverse Books

Whether authors can (and should) write across race, disability, and LGBTQ+ identities

Common pitfalls in representation — and how to avoid them

Real examples of books that handle these themes thoughtfully

This is a conversation for readers, parents, educators, and writers — one that invites reflection, not reaction.

✨ Full review of Heiress of Nowhere is available on the blog.

📚 Books Mentioned in This Episode

Heiress of Nowhere by Stacey Lee

El Deafo by Cece Bell

The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas

Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe by Benjamin Alire Sáenz

Wonder by R. J. Palacio

Learn More:

We Need Diverse Bookshttps://www.diversebooks.org/

💬 Closing Line

Keep raising brave readers — and keep turning pages.

February is often framed around romance and sweetness — but what if self-love is actually about discernment, boundaries, and honesty?

In this episode of The Brave Bookshelf, Kim Bartosch reflects on five recent reads and what they revealed about trusting your lived experience:

The Let Them Theory by Mel Robbins

Pursuing Success God’s Way: A Practical Guide to Hustle with Heart by Erin Harrigan

Sweet Tea and Thee: 90 Devotions to Perk Up Your Day by Linda Kozar

Lovin’ with Grit and Grace: Straight Talk About Romance, Sex, Fun, and the Tough Stuff Too by Jessica Ronne

Caregiving with Grit and Grace: 100 Days of Hope and Encouragement by Jessica Ronne

Some resonated deeply. Some didn’t. And that contrast became the lesson.

From navigating difficult family dynamics to caregiving for a child with ASD, this episode explores what self-love really looks like: trusting your internal compass, honoring the season you’re in, and giving yourself permission to take what nourishes you — and leave the rest.

Because self-love isn’t always soft.Sometimes it’s simply honest.

Middle grade is having a moment—and this episode is all about the books worth getting excited for.

In this installment of The Brave Bookshelf, host Kim Bartosch highlights the most anticipated middle grade releases from Simon & Schuster and its imprints, including Aladdin and Salaam Reads. These upcoming titles blend mythology, mystery, spy thrills, and real-life inspiration—while respecting young readers’ intelligence and emotional depth.

Featured books include:

📘 The Aftermyth by Tracy WolffA mysterious academy setting with Greek mythology vibes, distinct halls, and rich challenges—perfect for fans of Percy Jackson. Includes a Simon & Schuster reading group guide ideal for classrooms and book clubs.

🕵️ Hurricane Heist by James PontiThe next installment in The Sherlock Society series, promising clever mysteries, intrigue, and fast-paced thrills that mystery-loving readers crave.

🌍 Europa by James PontiA new City Spies adventure packed with edge-of-your-seat suspense, unforgettable characters, and high-stakes missions that keep readers turning pages late into the night.

💃 Maysoon Zayid, the Girl Who Can Can by Seema YasminAn empowering, must-have biography about resilience, humor, and being more than your disability—perfect for school libraries and readers who love true underdog stories.

Kim shares why these books stand out, who they’re best for, and why middle grade continues to be one of the most exciting spaces in publishing right now.

📚 Thoughtful. Fun. Anticipated for a reason.🎧 Listen now and add these titles to your TBR.