In this episode of the Middle Grade Matters podcast, I talk with Ali Terese, author of the debut novel Free Period. The book explores the themes of period equity and period poverty through the story of two prankster characters, Helen and Gracie, who take on these issues in their school. Ali shares her motivation for writing the book and her hope that it inspires kids to take action. She also discusses the humor in the book, her writing process, and the importance of finding your voice as a writer.  I love audiobooks! If you do, too, consider switching to <a href='https://libro.fm/middlegradematters'>Libro.fm</a>. For the same price as other major audiobook providers, you can find all your favorites as well as curated lists of audiobooks written by or recommended by guests of the Middle Grade Matters podcast. <a href='https://libro.fm/middlegradematters'>Click here to learn more!</a> Consider buying your books from the <a href='https://bookshop.org/shop/middlegradematters'>Middle Grade Matters Bookshop</a>, where proceeds support this podcast as well as independent bookstores everywhere. For bonus content and info on upcoming episodes, subscribe to the Middle Grade Matters newsletter here: <a href='https://www.shannonballoon.com/newsletter'>Newsletter</a>, and follow Middle Grade Matters on <a href='https://www.instagram.com/middlegradematterspodcast/'>Instagram</a> and <a href='https://twitter.com/middlegpodcast'>Twitter</a>. If you&apos;re enjoying this podcast, please be sure to follow us and please leave us a review.