Digital Books killed the Radio Star?

There's a lot of talk these days about digital books, interactive fiction and playable media. If all this yabbering on about new technologies makes you want to stick your fingers in your ears and scream "la-la-la-la-la" at the top of your lungs until it goes away, you can take comfort in the fact that more traditional media are also ploughing ahead with quality programming and innovative engagements into the world of children's storytelling. Tuning in to the airwaves I came across some choice radio gems for all you fans of children's literature fans in wireless land to enjoy. So whether you're a frazzled parent who wants to prescribe a double dose of Audrey's Snooze Hour STAT, or you would like to hear stories and poems written and read by national school students on What's the Story, there is something for everyone.

Gráinne Clear's Little Pages, a children's book programme designed for the entertainment of both children and adults, is excellent. Little Pages hosts many young reviewers on the show who read extracts from the stories and  talk about their favourite parts. This is useful for parents who are trying to gauge the age appropriateness of books for their children. While Clear's soft-spoken manner makes her a good host for young children, her often insightful analysis makes for interesting listening. The show is broadcast on Sunday mornings at 9am and repeated on Fridays at 4pm. The podcasts are all available here for download.

Ian McGlynn over at Lyric FM presents Classical Kids. This show is broadcast at 7-8am on Sunday mornings, so definitely one for the early risers in the house. This is a brand spanking new show, so I must admit I haven't yet had a chance to tune in, but if the playlist is anything to go by, we're in for a treat. Describing itself as a "fun introduction to the best composers, musicians and instruments just for younger listeners" Classical Kids has the makings of some great weekend listening

For more information on these programmes and for a full list of shows aimed at younger listeners and big kids, head on over to the RTÉ Junior Radio site.