Past and Pen Podcast: Episode Seven – The Sweet Origins of Marshmallows

Rosie Talley
Jun 6
3 min read

Updated: Jun 10

🎧 A Creative History Podcast for Kids Ages 8–12:

Perfect for middle-grade learners, this episode blends real history with a sprinkle of storytelling magic. You’ll discover how an ancient remedy became a sugary staple, and how something pulled from the roots of a swampy plant ended up on your s’more. Plus, there’s a creative writing prompt to inspire young imaginations!

Meet Your Host:

Meet Your Host:

Hosted by: Rosie Talley, Author of Linus the Troll

Produced by: Sweet Meadowlark Stories

🌐 Author Website

📧 Email: pastandpen@gmail.com

🎥 Watch Episode Seven:

👉 Watch the Full Episode Here

🎙️ Episode Summary:

In this episode of Past and Pen, we’re unraveling a story that begins in the marshes of ancient Egypt and ends beside a crackling campfire. It isn’t a ghost story or a tale of curses, at least not exactly, but it is a piece of history that feels a lot like magic.

You’ll learn how a swampy plant once used to heal sore throats eventually became a sugary treat we still enjoy today. From ancient remedies to French candy shops and finally to your mug of hot cocoa, this episode follows the unexpected journey of a now-famous fluff.

So grab your graham crackers, maybe a stick or two, and get ready to discover how the humble marshmallow made its sweet mark on history.

✍️ Writing Prompt:

Time to get creative with your own marshmallow magic!

Imagine you’re in Ancient Egypt, and you’ve just created a new remedy using the mallow plant. What does it do? How does it help people—or animals? Could it even have unexpected, surprising effects? Write a journal entry from the point of view of your ancient healer self. Describe what you made, how it works, and whether it might just change the world.

Send your story to pastandpen@gmail.com for a chance to have it featured on the show! Don’t forget to include your child’s name and age so I can give them a special shout-out!

📚 Reading List:

This post contains Amazon affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you.

📖 Sweet: A History of Candy by Tim Richardson – A delicious dive into the history of treats like marshmallows, chocolate, and more.

📖 The Story of Chocolate by Katie Daynes – Learn how this favorite treat traveled from ancient civilizations to your candy shelf.

📖 The Chocolate Touch by Patrick Skene Catling – A magical and funny story about a boy who turns everything into chocolate.

📖 Marshmallow by Clare Turlay Newberry – A gentle springtime classic about a fluffy bunny and a tabby cat who become friends.

📖 The Life of a S’more by Kris Taft Miller – A heartwarming picture book about uniqueness and teamwork, told from a marshmallow’s point of view.

📖 Marshall Mellow by JJ Landis – Follow the sweet and silly adventures of a lovable marshmallow with a big heart.

📖 A Camping Spree with Mr. Magee by Chris Van Dusen – A fun camping tale with rhymes, a curious bear, and plenty of mishaps.

📖 Try Not to Laugh Challenge: Would You Rather? Campfire Edition by C. S. Adams – Packed with camping-themed “Would You Rather?” questions, perfect for s’mores and giggles.

🧠 Fun Fact:

The marshmallow plant’s name—Althaea officinalis—comes from a Greek word that means “to heal.” Even its name knew what it was meant to do!

Thanks so much for joining me as we explore the past and let our pens do the talking! New episodes drop every other Tuesday at 4 PM CST—so mark your sundials, set your hourglasses, or just let history repeat itself and tune in!