Novel Effect Blog
for grown-ups who read with kids
Welcome to the Novel Effect Blog. We’re happy you’re here! Bookmark this page to make sure you’re always in-the-know about all things Novel Effect. Our team of expert educators and professional soundscape musicians brings you insights into new soundscape releases, exclusive read-aloud challenges, and interviews with popular authors. Find suggested themed book collections about sharks, space, and other topics to help keep your little learners engaged and excited about reading!
Did you know that Novel Effect also has a library of free book-specific printable activities? Check out our book activities and learning resources page to download PDFs to use at home or in the classroom.
Teaching Diversity through Read-Alouds: an Interview with Megan Hartley
Learn from educator and book influencer Megan Hartley about the importance of diverse children’s books and get their recommendations for diversifying your little learner’s reading routine!
Read-Alouds for a Brighter Future
These 6 inspirational stories will remind your little change-makers that they’re never too young to make a positive impact on the world.
The Smart Cookie: Inside the Soundscape
Go behind the scenes of the making of “The Smart Cookie” soundscape and meet the voice actors who play each character.
11 Read-Alouds for Difficult Times
Books can be a wonderful tool to use with children who have experienced difficult times such as trauma or loss. Reading, being read to, and talking with adults they love can help them understand and cope
Read Aloud Adventures Challenge
May 22 through June 4, every time you read a book from the “Read Aloud Adventures Challenge” with your Novel Effect app, you’ll be entered to win a Novel Effect x Rug-Ed Prize Pack!
Inside the Soundscape: Baseball Saved Us
Learn about the process Novel Effect soundscape designers Ian Silver and Matt Boerner used to create the emotional and immersive music, sound effects, and character voices that make up the soundscape for Ken Mochizuki’s “Baseball Saved Us.”