Send us a text Summary In this episode of Bookworthy, Valerie interviews Linda McKillop about her middle-grade book, Hotel Oscar Mike Echo. The conversation covers various topics, including the inspiration behind the book's unusual title, addressing adult topics in a middle-grade book, Sierra's cooking skills and creativity, the message and takeaways of the book, Linda's writing journey, her military background and inspirations, the most impactful book in Linda's life, the transition from writing for adults to middle grade, future projects, and where to find Linda and her books. Takeaways Hotel Oscar Mike Echo addresses adult topics such as PTSD, homelessness, and addiction in a relatable way for middle grade readers. The book's title, Hotel Oscar Mike Echo, is inspired by the military alphabet and plays a significant role in the story. Sierra's cooking skills and creativity are highlighted in the book, adding a unique element to the story. The book aims to teach young readers compassion and empathy for those who are struggling. Linda McKillop's writing journey began in high school, and she has since written both nonfiction and fiction books. The book draws inspiration from Linda's experiences volunteering and working with children in difficult circumstances. The most impactful books in Linda's life include The Hole in Our Gospel by Richard Stearns and Celebration of Discipline by Richard Foster. Linda made the transition from writing for adults to middle grade to address important topics and reach a younger audience. Linda has future projects in the works, including a potential follow-up to Hotel Oscar Mike Echo. Readers can find Linda McKillop and her books on her website and social media platforms. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Question of the Week 01:20 The Unusual Title of Hotel Oscar Mike Echo 02:17 Addressing Adult Topics in a Middle Grade Book 06:33 Sierra's Cooking Skills and Creativity 08:21 The Message and Takeaways of Hotel Oscar Mike Echo 11:00 Linda's Writing Journey 14:26 Military Background and Inspirations 15:49 The Most Impactful Book in Linda's Life 18:02 Transition from Writing for Adults to Middle Grade 21:00 Future Projects 22:42 Where to Find Linda and Her Books 23:26 Conclusion Let's discover great books together! Follow for more: FB: @bookworthypodcast Instagram: @bookworthy_podcast YouTube: BookWorthy Podcast - YouTube tiktok: @valeriefentress
