Bonus - Get ready to unlock the joy of reading and the wonders of American history with Valerie and Eric Woebkenberg, our inspiring mother-son duo. Valerie, a passionate former first-grade teacher from Cincinnati, teams up with her roller-coaster-loving son, Eric, to create the magical "Miles Across America" children's book series. This episode promises to take you on an exciting journey with a curious cat named Miles Standish who explores historical sites across the United States. If you're looking to inspire young readers with tales that entertain and educate, then this conversation is your ticket to discovering how to make history come alive for children.

The Woebkenbergs are on a mission to encourage kids to embrace physical books amidst the rise of digital formats. Their approach is simple yet profound: blending storytelling with authentic historical experiences. From the Mayflower's decks to the Wright Brothers first flight, Valerie and Eric's meticulous visits to real locations infuse their stories with authenticity. They share how they tackle the challenges of weaving historical content with captivating narratives, inviting young minds to appreciate history beyond mere memorization of dates and events.

As we explore the creative process behind the "Miles" series, Valerie and Eric reveal their secrets to engaging young readers, including the use of "sneak peek readers" to refine their stories. They discuss the thrill and challenges of family collaboration, with contributions from Valerie's other son, Michael, adding depth to their storytelling. Whether you're a parent, teacher, or history enthusiast, tune in to discover how the Woebkenbergs transform educational content into captivating adventures that spark curiosity and inspire the next generation of explorers.

To learn more you can visit Valerie's website https://valeriewoebkenberg.com/ or check out Instagram @miles_across_america.

Thanks for tuning into this bonus episode of Journey with Jake. The normal Thursday episodes will continue later this week. Be sure and check me out on Instagram @journeywithjakepodcast.

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