Jimmy Mac and Lindsay Lawler talk with author and longtime educator Amy Pollack about her three-book middle-grade series, The Adventures of Jelly Bean. Amy explains why she began writing Jelly Bean stories in 1960, how they followed her through a 40-year teaching career, and why she chose to publish them now for a new generation of readers.

They discuss the real issues kids face today. Friendship struggles. Family conflict. Popularity pressure. Feeling overlooked. Big emotions that can overwhelm young minds. Amy shares how Jelly Bean’s world gives children a safe place to see their own challenges and learn how to grow through them with honesty and courage.

Amy also talks about the guidance she hopes parents, grandparents, and caregivers take from the books. She describes how adults can support kids as they make decisions ...