Bonus – The latest episode of Journey with Jake features an inspiring conversation with Valerie and Eric Woebkenberg, the creative minds behind the “Miles Across America” children’s book series. This mother-son duo has embarked on a mission to make American history accessible and engaging for young readers. Their series centers around a curious cat named Miles Standish, who explores historical sites across the United States. This approach not only entertains children but also educates them by blending captivating narratives with real historical experiences.
Valerie Woebkenberg, a former first-grade teacher from Cincinnati, brings her passion for teaching and inspiring children to this literary project. With her extensive background in education, Valerie understands the importance of instilling a love for reading in children. She is committed to encouraging kids to embrace physical books, especially in an age where digital formats are prevalent. Her collaboration with her son Eric, who shares her enthusiasm for history and storytelling, has resulted in a series that resonates with young readers and their families.
The “Miles Across America” series was born out of a desire to make history come alive for children. Valerie and Eric have meticulously researched historical events and visited real locations to infuse their stories with authenticity. From the Mayflower’s decks to the Air Museum in Dayton, the Woebkenbergs’ dedication to accuracy and detail is evident in their work. Their stories aim to help children appreciate history beyond mere memorization of dates and events, emphasizing the extraordinary individuals and occurrences that have shaped the United States.
In their discussion, Valerie and Eric delve into the creative process behind the “Miles” series. They reveal how they balance informative content with a sense of adventure, ensuring that young readers remain engaged throughout the stories. An interesting aspect of their process is the use of “sneak peek readers”—groups of children who provide feedback on the manuscripts. This feedback is invaluable in refining the language and content to resonate with the intended audience.
The Woebkenbergs also touch on the family collaboration aspect of their work. Valerie’s other son, Michael, has contributed to the storytelling, adding depth and diversity to their narratives. The family dynamic is both a source of joy and challenge, as they navigate the intricacies of working together on creative projects. Their ability to harmonize different perspectives and ideas has been instrumental in the success of their series. 
Throughout the episode, the Woebkenbergs highlight the importance of visiting historical sites to enrich their storytelling. By experiencing these locations firsthand, they gain a deeper understanding of the events they write about, which translates into more vivid and accurate portrayals in their books. This approach not only enhances the authenticity of their narratives but also allows them to incorporate unique insights and details that readers might not find elsewhere.
Valerie and Eric’s passion for history and storytelling is palpable, and their dedication to inspiring the next generation of readers and explorers is commendable. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or history enthusiast, this episode offers valuable insights into how educational content can be transformed into captivating adventures for children. By listening to the Woebkenbergs’ journey, you’ll discover the power of storytelling in making history accessible, engaging, and meaningful for young minds.
In conclusion, the “Miles Across America” series is a testament to the Woebkenbergs’ commitment to making history enjoyable and educational for children. Their innovative approach to blending storytelling with real historical experiences sets a new standard for children’s literature. As they continue to explore new historical events and locations, Valerie and Eric are sure to inspire countless young readers to embark on their own journeys of discovery.
To learn more visit Valerie’s website https://valeriewoebkenberg.com/ and check out the “Miles” series on Instagram @miles_across_america.