The Storyteller's Shelf Podcast

What do Big Five children’s book editors actually look for in submissions, and why do great projects still get passed on?In this Season 2 episode of The Storyteller’s Shelf Podcast, we interview Catherine Laudone, Senior Editor at Beach Lane Books (Simon & Schuster), for an inside look at how kidlit publishing really works. If you’re writing picture books, middle grade, or building a career in children’s publishing, this conversation will help you understand the editorial and acquisitions process from a real industry perspective.In this episode, we cover:• What editors look for in manuscripts and submissions• Why voice and concept matter more than trends• What revise and resubmit (R&R) really means• How acquisitions decisions are made behind the scenes• Editor collaboration with authors and illustrators• Why strong projects may still be a “no” (fit, timing, market, list needs)• What makes a story memorable and more likely to sellCatherine also shares encouraging, practical advice for creators navigating querying, revisions, and publishing expectations.✅ Follow the show on Spotify so you never miss an episode📺 Subscribe to our YouTube for full video interviews📬 Join our newsletter for episode drops, summit updates, and resources🔗 All links (YouTube + newsletter + more):https://linktr.ee/thestorytellersshelfpodcast

The Storytellers Summit is now available for on-demand access, offering publishing education led by industry professionals.This summit includes educational sessions covering writing craft, book marketing, querying literary agents, and the business side of publishing. It’s designed for authors, writers, illustrators, and publishing professionals looking for practical strategies and real industry insight.As the Storytellers Summit continues to grow, future offerings will expand into themed summits, focused learning experiences, and paid pitch events that provide deeper opportunities for writers at every stage.If you attended the summit, please remember to complete our survey to help shape future content.Stay tuned for Season 2, and subscribe to our newsletter and channel for updates on upcoming publishing education and events.Learn more: https://thestorytellersshelfpodcast.com/storytellers-shelf-summit/

Thinking about attending a writing conference this year?The Storytellers Summit is a virtual event for kidlit authors, illustrators, and publishing professionals looking for real-world guidance and next-step clarity.Summit ticket holders gain access to:Exclusive mini-masterclasses for children’s book creatorsPractical publishing and querying insightsHigh-value giveaways included with registrationWriters who purchase the Pitch an Agent add-on are eligible for a raffle to receive a 10-minute critique from literary agent Syrone Harvey of the Belcastro Agency. Critiques are awarded by raffle in the following categories:Picture BookMiddle Grade / Chapter BookYoung AdultCritiques provide direct, actionable feedback on your query, concept, and next steps.All Summit ticket holders are also entered into a raffle to win either:A 30-minute book launch strategy sessionA professional book reviewBook reviews are coordinated through:👉 https://theresamariavillarreal.comLearn more and get your ticket at:👉 https://thestorytellersshelfpodcast.com/storytellers-shelf-summit/

In this episode of The Storyteller’s Shelf Podcast, we’re joined by Anne Broyles, award-winning author of children’s picture books and middle grade titles, including I’m Gonna Paint: Ralph Fasanella, Artist of the People, Priscilla and the Hollyhocks, Shy Mama’s Halloween, Arturo and the Bienvenido Feast, and Arturo and the Navidad Birds. Anne Broyles is of the Cherokee Nation and brings decades of experience in children’s publishing.Anne shares practical insight into writing children’s books, building a long-term author career, and staying motivated in traditional publishing. We discuss crafting picture books that connect with readers, working with editors, and approaching author marketing with clarity and intention.This episode is ideal for children’s authors, picture book writers, educators, and aspiring storytellers looking for experience-based guidance from a seasoned professional.Resources mentioned in this episode:• Are you an author in need of help with your writing? Check out our Scrivener link to save on writing software we use and recommend• Explore The Storytellers Summit and get your tickets for a full week of publishing masterclasses and a literary pitch event• Support the podcast: Buy us a Ko-fi to help support the show as we grow#ChildrensBookAuthor #PictureBookAuthor #KidLitPodcast #WritingMarketingMotivation #AuthorInterview #WritingChildrenBooks #TraditionalPublishing #StorytellerShelfPodcast #AspiringAuthors #ChildrensPublishing #AuthorMotivation#amwriting #librarians #teachers #educators

If you’ve ever struggled to finish a children’s book or felt stuck querying agents, this episode is for you.On @thestorytellersshelfpodcast, we talk with award-winning author, book coach, and editor Ellen Potter about finishing drafts, building character-driven stories, and navigating today’s children’s publishing landscape.“If you stay away from your story too long, the door to that world starts to close.”— Ellen PotterIn this episode, we cover:How accountability partners help writers finish booksWhy 10 focused minutes a day worksPicture books vs chapter books vs middle gradeWriting stronger queries and avoiding common agent pitfallsPractical ways authors market books through school visits and pre-orders🎧 Subscribe for weekly conversations on kidlit, publishing, and writing craft — and share this episode with a writer who needs it.☕ Support the podcastKo-fi → https://ko-fi.com/storytellersshelfpodcastGoFundMe → https://www.gofundme.com/f/storytellersshelf🍵 Support our sponsorHarney & Sons Fine Teas (listener discount):👉 https://harney.com/discount/STORYTELLERLinktree: https://linktr.ee/thestorytellersshelfpodcast#ChildrensBookWriting #Kidlit #WritingCommunity #QueryingAgents #AuthorPodcast

In this episode of  @TheStorytellersShelfPodcast , we sit down with Karl Buechner, Jeremy Mueller, and Keith Ward, the authors of the middle grade fantasy novel Unraveling and the Council of Crows.The authors share how collaboration honesty and lived experience shaped a powerful fantasy world where animals inherit culture magic and history after humanity disappears. Drawing from music, education, parenting, and storytelling, they explore why middle grade readers are capable of engaging with complex ideas and meaningful themes.“Middle grade readers can handle more than we give them credit for. They are smart and they are ready for deeper stories.”Jeremy MuellerThroughout the conversation, the authors discuss writing collaboratively world-building with intention and using storytelling to explore compassion forgiveness and responsibility.Topics discussed in this episode include:Middle grade fantasy world-buildingWriting collaboratively as multiple authorsForgiveness and compassion as central themesEnvironmental and animal centered storytellingHow music education and life experience influence narrative voiceStoryteller’s Shelf Summit January 12 to 17! Get your tickets today!The Storyteller’s Shelf Summit takes place January 12 through January 17 and is fully online. This is a full week of pre recorded masterclasses for writers illustrators educators and publishing professionals followed by a Literary Pitch Event. Visit our website for more information.If you enjoy the podcast and want to support our workSubscribe Like and ShareBuy us a Ko fihttps://ko-fi.com/storytellersshelfpodcastSupport our sponsors and get Summit tickets by visiting our Linktreehttps://linktr.ee/thestorytellersshelfpodcastYour support helps us continue creating free educational content for the kidlit and publishing community.#support #animalstories #quest #middlegradefantasy #middlegradebooks #kidlit #FantasyAuthors #worldbuilding #authorinterview #writingcommunity #booktok #supportourchannel #education #musician #authortube #fantasyauthors #MiddleGradeAuthors #FantasyAuthorInterview #writingtips #kidlitcommunity #authortok #writing #fantasyworlds #environmentalstorytelling #kidlitpodcast #EarthCrisis #PathOfResistance #HardcorePunk #HardcoreCommunity #MusiciansTurnedAuthors #PunkRockCulture #MetalAndBooks

“A single book can spark confidence, belonging, and a lifelong love of reading.” — Griffin Granberry, Madison Reading ProjectThis week on THE STORYTELLER’S SHELF PODCAST, we talk with Griffin Granberry and Josh Bulavko of Madison Reading Project about how joyful, high-quality books reach children through book buses, free book fairs, early-literacy programs, and strong partnerships with schools and families. Their stories from the field reveal exactly how the right book at the right time can change a child’s life.If you want to deepen your craft and strengthen your path in kidlit, join us at the Storyteller’s Shelf Summit, January 12–17 ; A full week of masterclasses, craft intensives, and a live pitch event with Syrone Harvey of Belcastro Agency.Get your tickets and full details at our website:https://thestorytellersshelfpodcast.com/storytellers-shelf-summit/Enjoy a cup of Harney & Sons Fine Teas, blended with care by a family passionate about exceptional tea.Learn more: https://Harney.com/discount/STORYTELLERScrivener for Writers:https://www.literatureandlatte.com/scrivener-affiliate.html/storyteller?fpr=storytellerSupport the Podcast:Buy us a Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/storytellersshelfpodcastGoFundMe: https://www.gofundme.com/f/storytellersshelf#childrensbooks #kidlit #literacy #bookaccess #madisonreadingproject #storytellersshelf #writersummit #belcastroagency #harneyandsons #scrivenerforwriters#booktok #authortok #writingcommunity #writers #summit #cslewis #JKRowling #JRRTolkein #DollyParton #Imaginationlibrary #madisonwisconsin

“Growing up in Nashville taught me that storytelling lives in every corner—music, movies, books—and that creative spark never leaves you.” — Adam RosenbaumIf you’ve ever dreamed of writing middle grade stories but felt your background didn’t “fit,” this episode will inspire you to leap. On THE STORYTELLER’S SHELF PODCAST, we sit down with Nashville native Adam Rosenbaum, the screenwriter-turned-author behind the debut middle grade novel The Ghost Rules—a funny, heartfelt, and slightly spooky adventure that blends humor with healing, grief, and emotional depth.Adam shares how his screenwriting experience sharpened his storytelling voice, the real journey to finding a literary agent, and why publishing needs more emotionally honest, diverse books for boys. He opens up about balancing writing with parenting four children, building character-driven stories, and how a lighthearted ghost idea became a meaningful exploration of loss for young readers.As a storyteller shaped by Music City’s creative heartbeat, Adam reflects on how Nashville’s culture—where music, books, film, and artistry intersect—influences his work. This ties beautifully to Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, a Nashville-rooted program fostering young readers and a lifelong love of stories.This episode is packed with insights for teachers, librarians, and writers alike:• Social-emotional learning (SEL)• Grief support and emotional processing• Classroom read-alouds or literature circles• Reluctant readers seeking humor and heart• Boys needing representation in emotionally honest stories• School libraries looking to expand middle grade selections🎧 Listen in to meet a Nashville storyteller whose work deserves a spot on every classroom and library shelf—and gain inspiration for your own creative journey.📣 Cyber Monday Alert: Today is the last day to grab your tickets to The Storytellers Summit at 40% off! Use code CYBERMONDAY at checkout to save. The Summit runs January 12–17 and includes workshops, craft guidance, and opportunities to pitch to literary professionals. Don’t wait—secure your discounted tickets now: https://thestorytellersshelfpodcast.com/storytellers-shelf-summit/If you enjoyed this episode, consider buying us a coffee on Ko-Fi to support the show and help us keep bringing you amazing guests. https://ko-fi.com/storytellersshelfpodcastCheck out all our links and goodies here: https://linktr.ee/thestorytellersshelfpodcastMake sure to like, Subscribe, and Share! #NashvilleWriters #MusicCityStories #ImaginationLibrary #DollyParton #WritingTips #Storytelling #WritingCommunity #KidLitWriting #AuthorAdvice #PublishingTips #WritersOfInstagram#TeachersOfInstagram #LibrariansOfInstagram #ClassroomBooks #ReadAloudBooks #SELBooks #BoysBooks #DiverseBooks #MiddleGradeBooks #KidLit #MiddleGradeAuthor #WritingForKids #KidsBookAuthor#CyberMondayDeals #BookLovers #ReadersOfInstagram #SupportAuthors#StorytellersSummit #AuthorEvents #WritingSummit #PodcastForWriters

What if joyful, musical storytelling could rebuild kids’ love of reading even in a world dominated by screens.In this episode of The Storyteller’s Shelf Podcast we sit down with  ⁨@ericlitwinbooks⁩ , the original author of Pete the Cat and a #1 New York Times bestselling creator whose innovative use of music, rhythm, and storytelling has transformed early literacy for millions of children"If we want kids to love reading we must out-fun the screens and we can" — Eric LitwinAbout Eric Litwin:Eric Litwin is the author of the original Pete the Cat series including: I Love My White Shoes, Rocking in My School Shoes, Four Groovy Buttons, and Saves Christmas as well as Groovy Joe, The Nuts, The Power of Joyful Reading, and The Poop SongHis books have sold over 17 million copies worldwide and are celebrated for their engaging use of music, rhyme, and interactive storytelling which support early reading skills.What You Will Learn in This Episode:How music, rhyme, rhythm, and call-and-response support the five pillars of readingHow interactive storytelling builds vocabulary, fluency, and comprehension.Why the attention economy challenges children’s reading habits.The decade of school performances that shaped Pete the Cat before publicationHow authors can build their own audience and community even when traditionally published.Writing stories that serve both specific literacy needs and general audiencesHow joy and verbal interaction can compete with digital distractions.A preview of Eric’s upcoming mindfulness-through-music program for kids, teens, and adults.Whether you are creating children’s books or supporting young readers in the classroom this episode provides actionable guidance and inspiration.Explore Eric’s Work and More ResourcesVisit Eric Litwin’s resources and upcoming projects to explore his books, music, literacy tools, and check out our upcoming Storyteller’s Shelf Winter SummitPodcast and Support LinksHANG OUT WITH US AND GET FREEBIES…and pitch to agents in our events!https://thestorytellersshelfpodcast.com/ ☕ Support the podcast: KOFI → https://ko-fi.com/storytellersshelfpodcastGo to our Linktree to get your tickets, for our upcoming summit and save 40% with code CYBERMONDAY:https://linktr.ee/thestorytellersshelfpodcast GOFUNDME → https://www.gofundme.com/f/storytellersshelf✏️ Give this Scrivener a try → https://www.literatureandlatte.com/scrivener-affiliate.html/storyteller?fpr=storyteller#teacher #educator #librarylife #library #books #petethecat #mowillems #authortube #authortok #childrensbooks #EarlyLiteracy #WritingForKids #KidLit #KidLitAuthors #Illustrators #Librarians #Teachers #AttentionEconomy #Storytelling #ReadingFoundations #publishingindustry

“Being a good writer is like being a good actor. You have to know people. You have to know things… anything you can do to pick up on life experiences really does, because at the end of the day, when you sit down to write, you have to pull from something.” -Max BeaudryWhat is it really like to write the shows that kids everywhere love and talk about? Emmy Award winning writer Max Beaudry joins us for an exciting and heartfelt conversation about his work on some of the most popular children’s series on television, including Paw Patrol, Baby Shark’s Big Show, Gabby’s Dollhouse, Dora and Friends, and several other favorites across Nickelodeon, DreamWorks, and Netflix Kids.Max opens up about how he found his creative home in children’s animation. He shares how his love of classic slapstick comedy, especially icons like Jerry Lewis, Dean Martin, and Abbott and Costello, shaped the humor, timing, and joyful silliness in his writing. His natural connection to big physical comedy and warmhearted storytelling makes him a perfect fit for kids entertainment.We also talk about Max’s work on The Cursed Life of Thackery Binx, created with James Marsden and featuring Jason Marsden, the original voice of Thackery Binx from Hocus Pocus. Max gives a fascinating look at what it is like to help expand such an iconic character for a new generation.A major highlight of this episode is Max’s book series created with illustrator David Perry. Their graphic novel adventures begin with Aw, Nuts, published by PaperKutz and distributed by  @SimonandSchusterInc , and continue with more books in the same chaotic, funny, food filled world. The series captures Max’s signature style of big energy, heartfelt humor, and imaginative storytelling that appeals to kids and parents alike.Max also shares his unique creative process, including his habit of pacing with his laptop while writing, and explains why life experience, curiosity, and playfulness are essential to strong storytelling. His insights will inspire authors, illustrators, screenwriters, teachers, and anyone interested in children’s media.Subscribe to Our Channel! Help support our Podcast:KOFI → https://ko-fi.com/storytellersshelfpodcast GOFUNDME → https://www.gofundme.com/f/storytellersshelfLinktree: https://linktr.ee/thestorytellersshelfpodcast✏️ Give this Scrivener a try → https://www.literatureandlatte.com/scrivener-affiliate.html/storyteller?fpr=storyteller#ChildrensBooks #GraphicNovelsForKids #KidsComics #PawPatrol #BabyShark #GabbysDollhouse #KidsAnimation #ChildrensTelevision#JerryLewis #SlapstickComedy #ClassicComedy #WritingForKids #KidsMedia#KidLit #CreativeProcess #Screenwriting #AnimationWriter #WritersRoom #ChildrensMediaPodcast #nickelodeon #netflixseries #jamesmarsden #simonandschuster #dreamworks #booktok #authortube

Ever wonder how a publishing company is actually built?Kate Simkins, founder and publisher of Big Thinking Publishing (UK), pulls back the curtain on what it really takes to run a modern independent press — from acquiring manuscripts and editing picture books, middle grade, YA, new adult, and poetry titles to managing finances, marketing strategies, and maintaining transparent relationships with authors.💬 “You’ve got to love it — it’s time-consuming, but worth every second.” – Kate SimkinsDiscover how Big Thinking Publishing was founded, how they select and develop books, and the guiding principles behind their success. Gain valuable insights into what it takes to bring meaningful stories to life and build a thriving publishing company from the ground up.💡 Have you subscribed to The Storyteller’s Shelf Podcast yet? Hit subscribe and never miss inspiring interviews with authors and publishing professionals shaping today’s stories.☕ Support the podcast:KOFI → https://ko-fi.com/storytellersshelfpodcastGOFUNDME → https://www.gofundme.com/f/storytellersshelf✏️ Try Scrivener:https://www.literatureandlatte.com/scrivener-affiliate.html/storyteller?fpr=storytellerShop our Linktree: https://linktr.ee/thestorytellersshelfpodcast#authors #childrensbooks #publishinghouse #writingcommunity #publishingtips #writingcommunity #booktok #books #podcastclips #education #publishing #publishingindustry #literacy #kidlit #authortube #library #books #submission

“Being led by your curiosity opens so many doors.” — Janna Morishima ✨You want a career in children’s publishing, but don’t know where to start? You’re sending cold emails, second-guessing yourself, and wondering if anyone actually breaks in without connections.In this episode of The Storyteller’s Shelf Podcast, Janna Morishima—founder of Kids Comics Unite, literary agent at Janna Co., and co-founder of Scholastic Graphix—reveals how she went from knowing one person in New York City to helping launch the kids’ graphic novel revolution at Scholastic.🎧 What you’ll learn:How Graphix became a powerhouse for children’s graphic novelsWhy curiosity and community can open career doors in publishingThe truth about agent life, burnout, and creative reinventionHow to network authentically and find real publishing opportunitiesIf you’ve dreamed of working in books, illustration, or publishing but don’t know where to begin—this conversation will change the way you see your path forward.💡 Watch more episodes featuring authors, illustrators, and publishing professionals redefining storytelling.🔔 Subscribe to stay inspired and learn what it really takes to build a career in children’s literature.☕ Support The Storyteller’s Shelf Podcast:KOFI → https://ko-fi.com/storytellersshelfpodcastGOFUNDME → https://www.gofundme.com/f/storytellersshelf✏️ Try Scrivener for your next story idea:https://www.literatureandlatte.com/scrivener-affiliate.html/storyteller?fpr=storyteller#ScholasticGraphix#ChildrensPublishing#KidLit#GraphicNovels#LiteraryAgent#PublishingCareers#ComicsCommunity#WomenInPublishing#AuthorPodcast

“You’re not there to teach — you’re there to inspire.” — Andy CoatsAward-winning children’s author and illustrator Andy Coats has self-published 18 books, built a thriving brand through school visits, and mastered the art of launching stories that connect with readers and educators alike.In this episode of The Storyteller’s Shelf Podcast, Andy shares how authors can turn school visits into a powerful way to grow their audience, inspire students, and generate real income — all while staying true to their creative mission.💡 In this episode, learn how to:Book your first school visit and get paid what you’re worth (yes, we discuss real rates!)Create engaging, memorable assemblies for students and teachersPartner with local businesses to fund your visits and boost book salesShift your mindset from hobby writer to creative entrepreneurIf you’ve ever dreamed of turning your authorship into a thriving business, this episode is your guide.🎧 Watch full episodes on YouTube or listen on SpotifySupport the podcast → https://ko-fi.com/storytellersshelfpodcast Write smarter with Scrivener → https://www.literatureandlatte.com/scrivener-affiliate.html/storyteller?fpr=storyteller Explore all links → https://linktr.ee/thestorytellersshelfpodcast#AuthorBusiness #SchoolVisits #BookMarketing #KidLit #MiddleGradeBooks #WritingCommunity #education #writingcommunity #library #authors

 “Writing is failing your way upwards.” — Kwame MbaliaAward-winning author Kwame Mbalia shares behind-the-scenes insight from writing CAPTAIN AMERICA: BRAVE NEW WORLD: A HERO LOOKS LIKE YOU for Marvel, his new Star Wars novel, and leading the Disney-Hyperion imprint FREEDOM FIRE—a space dedicated to celebrating Black stories and voices across the diaspora.He also opens up about:How to “fail your way upwards” as a writerWhy some stories are meant just for practiceBalancing creativity, parenting, and deadlinesThe future of diversity and equity in publishingHow research and curiosity fuel his storytelling process💡 Have you subscribed to The Storyteller’s Shelf Podcast yet? Hit subscribe and never miss inspiring interviews with authors shaping stories.☕ Support the podcast: KOFI → https://ko-fi.com/storytellersshelfpodcast GOFUNDME → https://www.gofundme.com/f/storytellersshelf✏️ Give this Scrivener a try → https://www.literatureandlatte.com/scrivener-affiliate.html/storyteller?fpr=storytellerMake sure to Subscribe to our Podcast!

“Being led by your curiosity opens so many doors.” — Janna Morishima You want a career in children’s publishing—but don’t know where to start? You’re sending cold emails, second-guessing yourself, and wondering if anyone actually breaks in without connections.In this episode of @thestorytellersshelfpodcast , Janna Morishima—founder of Kids Comics Unite, literary agent at Janna Co., and co-founder of Scholastic Graphix—reveals how she went from knowing one person in New York City to helping launch the kids’ graphic novel revolution at Scholastic.🎧 What you’ll learn:How Graphix became a powerhouse for children’s graphic novelsWhy curiosity and community can open career doors in publishing. The truth about agent life, burnout, and creative reinvention. How to network authentically and find real publishing opportunitiesIf you’ve dreamed of working in books, illustration, or publishing but don’t know where to begin—this conversation will change the way you see your path forward.💡 Watch more episodes featuring authors, illustrators, and publishing professionals redefining storytelling.🔔 Subscribe to stay inspired and learn what it really takes to build a career in children’s literature.☕ Support The Storyteller’s Shelf Podcast:KOFI → https://ko-fi.com/storytellersshelfpodcastGOFUNDME → https://www.gofundme.com/f/storytellersshelf✏️ Try Scrivener for your next story idea:https://www.literatureandlatte.com/scrivener-affiliate.html/storyteller?fpr=storyteller #KidsComicsUnite#ScholasticGraphix#ChildrensPublishing #KidLit #GraphicNovels #LiteraryAgent #PublishingCareers#ComicsCommunity#WomenInPublishing

“Children’s publishing is serious work. We’re building future readers.” — Lori WieczorekBreaking into children’s publishing can feel confusing and competitive. In this episode, Lori Wieczorek, Senior Editor of Trade Licensing at Scholastic, shares her real journey from campus newspaper to Scholastic Book Clubs and Trade Licensing. Learn how licensing and fandom inspire reluctant readers, what a senior editor’s day truly looks like, and how versatility across formats can shape a lasting publishing career.In this episode you’ll learn:📚 How the Book Clubs “buyer” track builds editorial confidence🧠 Why reading widely sharpens judgment across picture books, graphic novels, chapter books, and YA🤝 Simple networking strategies for introverts that lead to real connections🎮 How trend-tracking through pop culture and conventions supports editorial insight🧩 Collaboration tips with sales, design, marketing, and licensors to bring books to market💬 Why children’s publishing is both art and responsibility—we’re building future readers.Make sure to subscribe, ring the notification bell, and share this with a friend!☕ Support the podcast: KOFI → https://ko-fi.com/storytellersshelfpodcast GOFUNDME → https://www.gofundme.com/f/storytellersshelf✏️ Give this Scrivener a try → https://www.literatureandlatte.com/scrivener-affiliate.html/storyteller?fpr=storytellerGo to our Linktree: https://linktr.ee/thestorytellersshelfpodcast#KidLit #PublishingCareers #Scholastic #EditorsLife #BookJobs #Licensing #GraphicNovels #Marvel #MilesMorales #PeppaPig #Editor #Publishing #PublishBook #ludacris #marvel #disney #scholastic #authortube #booktok #books #podcastclips #library #homeschooling #reading #education

"If you hire a copy editor when you need developmental editing, you'll just have a very clean copy with plot holes." ~ Mary KoleYour manuscript isn't ready until you hear this!!!!!Connect with us for freebies and submission opportunities: https://thestorytellersshelfpodcast.com/ Hello! Most authors waste thousands of dollars hiring the wrong type of editor at the wrong time. Are you one of those authors? Let’s change that ASAP. Knowledge is power. In this episode of THE STORYTELLER'S SHELF PODCAST, we sit down with Mary Kole, former literary agent at Andrea Brown Literary Agency, former editor at Chronicle Books, and author of an insane amount of writing resources, including "Writing Irresistible Kidlit." She's one of the most respected developmental editors in publishing, and she's breaking down the editorial process most authors get completely wrong. ✨ The 3 types of editing and what order you actually need them ✨ Real cost breakdowns: developmental editing (3 to 8 cents per word), line editing (2 to 6 cents per word), copy editing (2 to 4 cents per word) ✨ Why hiring a copy editor when you need developmental editing just gives you clean copy with plot holes ✨ How the traditional publishing editorial process really works ✨ Mary's "take the wisdom, leave the rest" framework for handling feedback ✨ Why even professional editors hire other editors for their own work ✨ The truth about the pace of publishing and why polished work mattersWhether you're querying agents, working with a publisher, or self-publishing, this conversation could save you months of time and thousands of dollars.Listen, watch, share, and stop making expensive editing mistakes.#ManuscriptEditing #MaryKole #EditingProcess #DevelopmentalEditing #PublishingAdvice #WritingCommunity #TheStorytellersShelf☕ Support the podcast: KOFI → https://ko-fi.com/storytellersshelfpodcast GOFUNDME → https://www.gofundme.com/f/storytellersshelf✏️ Give this Scrivener a try → https://www.literatureandlatte.com/scrivener-affiliate.html/storyteller?fpr=storyteller

This week on The Storyteller’s Shelf Podcast, we sat down with Caleb Masters and Lupe Penn from Bookmarks, NC: Books with Purpose, one of the nation’s only nonprofit independent bookstores. ✨ What it really takes to choose which books land on shelves 📚 How schools can partner with nonprofits to bring authors directly to kids ❌ Challenges with censorship and book access in 2025 🌟 Why representation and community matter in children’s reading journeys☕ Support the podcast: KOFI → https://ko-fi.com/storytellersshelfpodcast GOFUNDME → https://www.gofundme.com/f/storytellersshelf✏️ Give this Scrivener a try → https://www.literatureandlatte.com/scrivener-affiliate.html/storyteller?fpr=storyteller

"Always wonder. The world is full of amazing, spectacular things." – Robin Currie📚 Want to get your book into libraries and grow your audience as an author? In this episode of THE STORYTELLER’S SHELF PODCAST, we sit down with Robin Currie, award-winning author of over 45 picture books and a former youth librarian, to talk about: 📚 How to get your book into libraries 📖 Avoiding common mistakes when pitching 🖋️ Staying creative and productive as a writer 🌟 Navigating self-publishing vs. traditional publishing 🌟Robin’s newest release, "JUST ENOUGH ROOM FOR CHRISTMAS"If you’ve ever wondered how to get your books on library shelves, this episode is for you!🎧 Watch or listen here: https://linktr.ee/thestorytellersshelfpodcast☕ Support the podcast:KOFI https://ko-fi.com/storytellersshelfpodcastGOFUNDME: https://www.gofundme.com/f/storytellersshelf✏️ Want to try Scrivener? https://www.literatureandlatte.com/scrivener-affiliate.html/storyteller?fpr=storyteller#writingcommunity #podcast #childrensliterature #booktok #bookstagram #library #librarian #education #bookrecommendations

📚 “For me, when I write, it’s like a movie going across my eyes and all I’m doing is converting that movie and putting it down on paper.” — Paul Rushworth-BrownAward-winning historical fiction author Paul Rushworth-Brown joins THE STORYTELLER’S SHELF PODCAST to share how his life as a high school teacher, professional football coach, and global traveler shaped his writing voice.His latest novel, Outback Odyssey, explores belonging, silence, and resilience through a cinematic story set in 1950s Australia — and it’s now being pitched for a film adaptation.In this episode, we talk about:– The art of making historical fiction feel authentic without “fact dumps”– How teaching influences storytelling and communication– Paul’s unique creative process (and why he never outlines)– Weaving First Nations culture into fiction with respect and depth– The journey from novel to screenplay to potential big-screen adaptationIf you’re a writer, reader, or lover of historical fiction, this episode is packed with inspiration and practical wisdom.🎧 Listen on Spotify: 🚀 Get Freebies & Insider Publishing Info: Check out our Website!🚀 Join the IG Family: Our IG🚀 Special Storyteller Savings (YES ON SCRIVNER TOO!): Linktree#HistoricalFiction #AuthorInterview #authortube #writersblock, #writers, #movies #bookstagram #booktok #bookrecommendations #ya #childrensbooks #artistoftiktok #bookrecommendations #booktofilm #writingcommunity #education #publishing