Wander World: Kids Interview Author Katie Gigliotti
Wander World: Kids Interview Author Katie Gigliotti
Join a magical read-aloud of Wonder World by Katie Gigliotti followed by a fun Q&A where kids ask the author about her book and adventures.
The Magic of Imagination: Exploring "Wonder World" and the Joy of Storytelling
Imagination is a powerful force, especially in childhood. It can transform an ordinary day into an extraordinary adventure, and a simple living room into a gateway to the world. In the Family Read and Discover segment "Kids Ask Authors Answer," children and adults alike are invited to experience this magic through the book "Wonder World" by Katie Gigliotti. The episode not only features a delightful readaloud of the story but also a heartwarming interview with the author, where kids' questions take center stage.
This article delves into the themes of "Wonderorld," the creative process behind it, and the unique way the show fosters a love of reading and curiosity in young minds. We'll explore the story's journey, the inspiration behind it, and the thoughtful answers to children's imaginative questions.
"Wonder World" begins with a familiar scene: a child visiting her grandparents, feeling a bit bored and alone despite being surrounded by family. Her grandma is busy, her aunt is engrossed in a TV show, and her grandpa is dozing in his chair. But what could have been a dull afternoon quickly transforms into an adventure, thanks to the power of imagination.
The little girl wakes her grandpa and invites him on a make-believe journey. Together, they climb onto the couch, fasten their imaginary seatbelts, and prepare for takeoff. What follows is a whirlwind tour of the world, all from the comfort of the living room.
Their travels take them to snowy landscapes where they build forts and have snowball fights, to the Great Barrier Reef where they swim with friendly sharks, and to African plains where they watch lions and zebras. They explore Venice by gondola, trek through the jungles of Brazil, and experience the hustle and bustle of New York City. The adventure even takes them to the heights of Mount Everest before returning home for dinner.
At the heart of "Wonder World" is the special bond between the child and her grandpa. Their shared flights of fancy are not just about seeing new places, but about connecting, learning, and creating memories together. The story beautifully illustrates how imagination can bridge generations and turn the ordinary into the extraordinary.
Katie Gigliotti, the author and illustrator of "Wonder World," joined the show to answer questions from her young readers. She shared insights into her creative process, her inspirations, and her experiences as both a writer and an art teacher.
Katie revealed that she teaches art to elementary school students in grades three to five, and that her own childhood experiences with her grandfather inspired the story. As a child, her grandfather would play along with her imaginative adventures, encouraging her to dream and create.
Katie is not only the creator of "Wonder World" but also the author and illustrator of other books, including "All My Love" and "You Are." She is currently working on a series of color-themed books, inspired by color psychology and the emotions colors evoke. Her favorite color is purple, though she admits to feeling more "blue" at times—perhaps a nod to the complexity and depth of her creative spirit.
One of the most charming aspects of the show is the way it centers children's questions. Kids from ages three to nine sent in their queries, ranging from the practical to the whimsical. Katie answered each with warmth and honesty, often sharing personal anecdotes and behind-the-scenes details.
Many children wanted to know about Katie's favorite places and whether she had visited the locations in her book. She confessed that, despite the global journey in "Wonder World," she has only visited New York in real life. Her favorite place, however, is the beach—any beach, as long as there's sand and water.
Other questions delved into the details of the story's illustrations and settings. For example, one child asked what snacks the characters nibbled on in Italy. Katie explained that they were eating cookies, though she agreed that gelato would have been a delicious addition.
When asked why the New York City skyline was depicted in gray, Katie shared her artistic reasoning: she wanted the colorful sunset and the Statue of Liberty to stand out, using a neutral palette for the city itself.
A particularly thoughtful question came from a child who wondered why the little girl in the story chose her grandpa for the adventure, rather than her aunt or grandma. Katie revealed that the story was based on her own experiences with her grandfather, who always encouraged her creativity. She also shared that she intentionally left the main character unnamed, so that any child could see themselves in the story.
Children were curious about the accuracy of the book's details, such as the lizard with a beaver-like tail (inspired by real South American lizards) and the construction of sandcastles (which require lots of water and teamwork). Katie's answers highlighted her commitment to research and authenticity, even in a story fueled by imagination.
"Wonder World" is a celebration of imagination. It shows children that they can travel anywhere, do anything, and be anyone, all through the power of their minds. This message is reinforced by the show's format, which invites kids to engage with stories, ask questions, and see themselves as part of the creative process.
The story also emphasizes the importance of family bonds. The shared adventure between the child and her grandpa is a reminder that storytelling can be a way to connect across generations, fostering understanding, empathy, and joy.
By answering children's questions, Katie demonstrates that learning can be playful and interactive. Whether it's discussing the logistics of building an igloo, the population of New York City, or the mechanics of a Jeep, the conversation is always rooted in curiosity and discovery.
The episode included a lively "rapid fire" round, where Katie answered as many travel-themed questions as possible in one minute. From naming modes of transportation to describing what you pack for a trip, the segment was both entertaining and educational. It reinforced the idea that travel—real or imagined—is full of possibilities and excitement.
Katie has put together some fabulous resources parents can use after reading her story. You can find them here: Free Resources
Set aside regular time for reading and storytelling. Let children choose the stories, and encourage them to imagine their own adventures.
After reading a story, ask children what they would do if they were the main character, or where they would like to travel in their imagination. This fosters critical thinking and creativity.
Encourage children to draw, write, or act out their own stories. Use everyday objects—like a couch or a blanket—as props for imaginative play.
No question is too small or too silly. Celebrate your child's curiosity by exploring answers together, whether through books, research, or creative projects.
"Wonder World" and the Family Read and Discover segment are a celebration of the boundless possibilities of imagination. Through stories, children can travel the world, connect with loved ones, and learn about themselves and others. By centering children's voices and questions, the show fosters a love of reading, creativity, and lifelong learning.
Whether you're a parent, teacher, or young reader, there's something magical about stepping into a story and seeing where your imagination can take you. So, fasten your seatbelt, grab a loved one, and get ready for your own adventure—because in the world of stories, anything is possible.
Want to grab a copy of "Wander World!". You can find it here: https://amzn.to/44bh79h
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