Libros We Love: De Zavala Reads
Libros We Love: De Zavala Reads is a bilingual podcast created and produced by 4th grade students at De Zavala Environmental Science Academy.
Each week, our student hosts interview two guests about their favorite books — one conversation in English and one in Spanish. Guests include teachers, students, parents, community members, and special visitors.
Through these interviews, students build literacy, speaking, listening, and storytelling skills while celebrating reading across languages and cultures. The show promotes a love of books, bilingualism, and lifelong learning in a fun, kid-friendly format.
English and Spanish episodes are released together so families can enjoy both.
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Episodes

Apr 2, 2026
Apr 2, 2026
33 min
In this special (Spanish only) episode, students interview Superintendent Dr. Trujillo about leadership, bilingualism, and the power of reading. He shares his favorite book Are You My Mother? and reflects on language, family, and perseverance. English translation is provided in the notes.
Transcript & Notes

Mar 27, 2026
Mar 27, 2026
18 min
Students interview Ms. Tucker and Ms. Garcia about Charlotte’s Web and Joey Pigza Swallowed the Key, exploring friendship, empathy, and understanding others. The episode highlights kindness, inclusion, and the importance of reading in building connections.
Transcript & Notes

Mar 13, 2026
Mar 13, 2026
16 min
Students interview Ms. Romansky and Ms. Ceballos about their favorite books, Matilda and Love You Forever. They discuss the magic of reading, the power of teachers, and how love can last through generations. The episode highlights imagination, kindness, and the importance of family.
Transcript & Notes

Mar 5, 2026
Mar 5, 2026
17 min
In Episode 7, students interview district strategists about inspiring books. Miss Nelson Is Missing! teaches appreciation and kindness, while El coleccionista de palabras celebrates creativity and the power of sharing words and expanding vocabulary through reading.
Transcript & Notes

Feb 27, 2026
Feb 27, 2026
9 min
In Episode 6, second grade teachers share books that inspire creativity and comfort young readers. Mrs. Johnson highlights a funny, student-written story about bubble gum, while Ms. Mijares shares Un Beso en Mi Mano, a heartwarming reminder that love stays with us, even on the first day of school.
Transcript & Notes

Feb 20, 2026
Feb 20, 2026
18 min
In this episode, fifth grade teachers share books about courage and family. Ms. Coleman features The Story About Ping, about facing fears and consequences. Ms. Escoto introduces Una Película en mi Almohada, poems about immigration and reunion.
Transcript & Notes

Feb 13, 2026
Feb 13, 2026
6 min
In this episode, first grade teachers share books about perseverance and patience. Ms. Baca features The Girl Who Makes a Million Mistakes, which promotes growth mindset. Ms. Wong shares Waiting Is Not Easy!, a funny story about how patience leads to happy surprises.
Transcript & Notes

Feb 5, 2026
Feb 5, 2026
7 min
In this episode, our 4th grade student hosts interview two special guests about the books they love. Ms. Lockett, a fourth grade reading and writing teacher, and Ms. Quiñones, a fourth grade math and science teacher, talk about their favorite books.
Transcript & Notes

Jan 30, 2026
Jan 30, 2026
9 min
In Episode #2, our 4th grade student hosts interview two special guests about the books they love. Mr. Damon, our librarian, and Ms. Aguinaga, the hosts' teacher, talk about their favorite books.
Episode 2 Transcript & Notes

Jan 23, 2026
Jan 23, 2026
7 min
In this episode, our 4th grade student hosts interview two special guests about the books they love. Ms. Arriaga, our principal, and Ms. Glover, one of our school counselors, talk about their favorite books.
Transcript & Notes
