🎙️ Episode 16: Writing Across Genres and Age Categories in KidLit How do successful children’s authors move seamlessly between board books, picture books, early readers, middle grade, and even books for adults—without losing their voice or audience? Host Kirsten W. Larson sits down with award-winning authors Marzieh Abbas (A Dupatta Is…, Yasmeen Lari: Green Architect, Aarzu All Around) and Valerie Bolling (Let’s Dance!, Ride Roll Run: Time for Fun!, A Flea for Justice, Goal Setting in the Writing Classroom) to discuss how they write “all the things.” You’ll hear how they: Balance fiction, nonfiction, and informational fiction Adjust craft for different age levels Use mentor texts to grow across forms Manage career focus and creative bandwidth Say yes to opportunities that expand their writing lives Perfect for children’s authors, teachers, and anyone curious about the creative and business sides of kidlit. 🔗 https://marziehabbas.com/ 🔗 https://www.valeriebolling.com/ 📚 Learn more: kirstenwlarson.com | writers.kirstenwlarson.com 00:00 Ep. 16 - Writing Across Genres and Age Categories in Kid Lit 00:07 Title: Writing Across Genres and Age Categories in Kid Lit 00:38 Chapter 1: Meet Our Guests 01:55 Chapter 2: Exploring Different Forms of Writing 09:53 Chapter 3: Craft Considerations Across Genres 42:44 Chapter 4: Career Impact of Writing Across Genres 50:39 Chapter 5: Future Writing Goals
In this episode of the Nonfiction Kid Lit Craft Conversations podcast, host Kirsten W. Larson interviews award-winning nonfiction author Melissa Stewart. They discuss Stewart's five kinds of nonfiction classification system, its impact on writers, educators, and publishers, and the importance of expository nonfiction. Stewart shares insights on finding the perfect hook for manuscripts, how nonfiction authors connect emotionally with their topics, and how her research process shapes engaging books for young readers. They also spotlight Stewart's new book "From BAM! to BURP," including her initial inspiration during a school visit. 00:00 Welcome to Nonfiction Kid Lit Craft Conversations 00:17 Introducing Melissa Stewart and Her Work 01:30 Exploring the Five Kinds of Nonfiction 06:25 Impact on Educators, Librarians, and Publishers 08:56 Addressing Misconceptions About Expository Literature 13:39 Emotional Connection in Nonfiction Writing 18:02 The Importance of a Strong Hook 21:05 Finding the Perfect Hook: A Journey 24:44 Staying Organized as a Prolific Author 27:20 The Phases of Research 28:40 Deciding What Stays and What Goes 31:11 Introducing 'From BAM! to Burp!' 31:47 The Hook and Approach for Complex Topics 33:52 Personifying a Carbon Atom 37:23 Trends in Children's Nonfiction 40:58 Upcoming Book: Monarch and Mourning Cloak 46:00 Final Thoughts and Advice for Writers 46:29 Conclusion and Podcast Outro Find more resources on Melissa's website: https://melissa-stewart.com/ Kirsten's website: https://kirstenwlarson.com/ Support the podcast through our Bookshop: https://bookshop.org/shop/NonfictionKidlitPodcast
Welcome to the Nonfiction Kid Lit Craft Conversations podcast! In this episode, host Kirsten Larson sits down with Emily Starr, founder of Starrmatica, to explore the craft and business of writing true stories for kids—especially in STEM and science education. Discover how to inspire curiosity in young learners, the latest trends in elementary science classrooms, and actionable tips for authors and educators to make science engaging and accessible. Emily shares her expertise on integrating nonfiction picture books into science curricula, the impact of the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS), and how authors can align their work with classroom needs without sacrificing creativity. Whether you’re a children’s author, educator, or parent passionate about STEM, this episode is packed with insights, book recommendations, and practical strategies. Join Emily's science workshops for children's writers here (or purchase the replays): https://starrmatica.com/kidlitscienceseries/ Timestamps / Chapters: 00:00 - Introduction: Meet Emily Starr & Starrmatica 01:00 - Emily’s Background and Mission in Science Education 03:17 - The State of Science Learning in US Classrooms 05:31 - Why Elementary Science Matters: Sparking Curiosity Early 07:45 - Common Misconceptions & The Importance of Early Science 10:00 - How Science is Taught Today: Time, Challenges, and Opportunities 13:05 - The Shift to Inquiry-Based Science & NGSS Overview 16:20 - Challenges Teachers Face Bringing Science to Classrooms 18:20 - How Authors Can Support Teachers with STEM Books 21:00 - What Makes a Great STEM Picture Book for Classrooms 24:00 - Designing Books to Nurture Curiosity and Inquiry 27:00 - Book Structures & Storytelling Techniques that Spark Inquiry 30:00 - Using Books to Model Scientific Thinking & Practices 33:00 - Advice for Authors: Aligning with Classrooms Without Losing Creativity 36:00 - Emily’s Book Recommendations & Standout STEM Titles 39:00 - Emily’s Upcoming Book and Author Workshops 41:00 - Final Advice for Children’s Nonfiction Authors 43:00 - Where to Find Emily Starr’s Resources & Closing Keywords: nonfiction kid lit, STEM books for kids, science education, elementary science, inquiry-based learning, Next Generation Science Standards, NGSS, children’s book author, writing for kids, science picture books, author resources, teacher resources, book recommendations, Emily Starr, Kirsten Larson, Starrmatica, curriculum guides, science teaching tips, inspiring curiosity, children’s nonfiction, podcast
Ready to take control of your children's book publishing journey? Join host Kirsten Larson as she interviews self-publishing expert Darcy Pattison, who has successfully published 70+ children's books through her own publishing house, Mim's House Books. What You'll Learn: When self-publishing is the right choice vs. traditional publishing How to develop your art directing skills for picture books Essential business skills every indie author needs Marketing strategies that actually work for children's books How to get your books into schools and libraries The truth about making money in self-publishing Using Kickstarter for book launches and pre-orders Key Takeaways: Why self-publishing is about "abundance vs. scarcity" The importance of building a backlist for long-term success How to find and work with illustrators (contracts included!) Metadata that boost discoverability Why one book won't make you rich (and what will) 📖 About Darcy Pattison: Award-winning children's author with 8 traditionally published books and 70+ self-published titles. Founder of Mim's House Books and creator of the upcoming guide "Publish: Find Surprising Success Self-Publishing Your Children's Book." 🔗 Resources Mentioned: Mim's House Books: mimshousebooks.com Indie Kids Books blog: indiekidsbooks.com Darcy's Kickstarter (launches Sept 15): https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/darcypattison/publish?ref=profile_created&category_id=48 Timestamps: 0:00 – Welcome & Introducing Darcy Pattison 01:48 – Darcy’s Publishing Journey 05:00 – Betting on Yourself as a Creator 08:03 – Why Self-Publishing? Speed, Profit & Control 11:30 – The Power of Series and Backlist 14:45 – Misconceptions About Self-Publishing 18:12 – Becoming Your Own Art Director 22:30 – Ensuring Quality for Schools and Libraries 26:48 – Distribution, Metadata & Marketing Strategy 32:55 – Kickstarter for Children’s Books Perfect for: Children's book authors, illustrators, indie publishers, picture book creators, nonfiction writers, anyone considering self-publishing
Want to finally finish your writing projects? Discover the accountability system that's helped two children's authors publish dozens of books! In this episode of Nonfiction Kidlit Craft Conversations, host Kirsten Larson sits down with fellow children's author Marcie Colleen to reveal their secret weapon: an 8-year accountability partnership that starts at 5:30 AM every weekday. What You'll Learn: How to find the perfect accountability partner for writers Different accountability systems that actually work (not just morning check-ins!) The "Adequate Daily Progress" hack for preventing frustration How to stay motivated during tough creative periods (including pandemic writing!) Why is only takes small chunks of writing time to make your book a reality Where to find accountability partners in writing communities Perfect for: Children's book writers, picture book authors, middle grade writers, nonfiction authors, freelance writers, anyone struggling with writing consistency Guest: Marcie Colleen - Author of "Happy Friendsgiving" and multiple children's books, comics, and graphic novels Resources Mentioned: 12x12 Picture Book Writing Challenge "The Artist's Way" by Julia Cameron "Big Magic" by Elizabeth Gilbert Marcie's "Last 100 Days" writing workshop; email Marcie here for information. Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction: Meet the 8-Year Writing Partnership 02:30 - How We Started: From Critique Partners to 5:30 AM Accountability 07:45 - What Is an Accountability Partner? (Definition & Benefits) 15:20 - Different Accountability Systems That Work 18:45 - Blocking Distractions: Email, Social Media & Focus Strategies 21:10 - Grace vs. Discipline: When to Push vs. Rest 24:45 - Goal Setting Without the Overwhelm 28:00 - Writing Through COVID: Staying Creative During Crisis 31:40 - The "Big Magic" Approach to Writer's Block 34:50 - Habit Formation: Don't Get Off the Bus 37:25 - Where to Find Your Perfect Accountability Partner 39:45 - The 100 Days Challenge: Year-End Writing Goals 42:30 - Lightning Round: Productivity Tools & Recent Wins 44:15 - The "Adequate Daily Progress" Method Explained 47:30 - Making Invisible Work Visible: To-Do List Hacks 49:20 - Final Thoughts: Small Steps, Big Results
🎧 Nonfiction vs. Informational Fiction: Where Do You Draw the Line? | Nonfiction Kidlit Craft Conversations Join host Kirsten Larson and Sibert Honor author Colleen Paeff as they explore one of children's literature's most debated topics: the distinction between nonfiction and informational fiction. When should authors stick strictly to documented facts, and when is it okay to fictionalize elements to serve the story? In This Episode: • How Colleen defines nonfiction vs. informational fiction in her own work • Why her books "The Great Stink" and "Firefly Song" stayed nonfiction while her upcoming "Rainbow Truck" and "Pufflings Fly Free" became informational fiction • The role of emotional storytelling in factual narratives • How research depth affects genre decisions • Practical advice for authors struggling with this choice • Amazing research organization tips using the Obsidian app About the Guest: Colleen Paeff is the Sibert Honor-winning author of "The Great Stink: How Joseph Bazalgette Solved London's Poop Pollution Problem" and the starred-review book "Firefly Song: Lynn Frierson Faust and the Great Smoky Mountain Discovery." Connect with Colleen at: https://www.colleenpaeff.com/ Support the podcast through our Bookshop (we earn a small commission at no cost to you): https://bookshop.org/shop/NonfictionKidlitPodcast Perfect for: Children's book authors, educators, librarians, and anyone interested in science writing for kids, research techniques, and the craft of nonfiction storytelling. #NonFictionBooks #ChildrensBooks #KidLit #ScienceBooks #AuthorInterview #WritingCraft #InformationalFiction #PictureBooks #Research
🎙️Nonfiction Kidlit Craft Conversations | Ep. 12: Connecting with Educators Through Conferences with Patricia Newman Want to build relationships with the educators who share your books with kids? In this episode, Kirsten chats with Sibert Honoree and environmentalist Patricia Newman, author of Sharks Unhooked, illustrated by Becca Hall (Millbrook Press), about how authors can effectively pitch, present, and participate in teacher and librarian conferences. 🌟 What you'll learn: Why these conferences matter How to pitch successful proposals Smaller conferences to try Budget-friendly tips for authors Whether it’s worth presenting before you're published Patricia also shares what’s next for her writing journey! 🔔 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and leave a review. 📩 Sign up for Kirsten’s newsletter to get the full transcript: https://kirstenwlarson.com Connect with Patricia Newman: https://www.patriciamnewman.com https://x.com/PatriciaNewman https://www.instagram.com/patricianewmanbooks/ https://bsky.app/profile/patricianewman.bsky.social #NonfictionKidlit #PatriciaNewman #SharksUnhooked #KidlitPodcast #ChildrensAuthors #AuthorTips #LibraryConferences #TeacherConnections
Revision Magic & the Art of Critique: Tips from Michelle Cusolito | Nonfiction Kidlit Craft Conversations 🎧 Nonfiction Kidlit Craft Conversations is the podcast for children's authors who want to deepen their craft, hosted by Kirsten W. Larson, award-winning nonfiction picture book author and leading educator in children's nonfiction writing. In each episode, Kirsten interviews authors, illustrators, and editors about the craft and business of nonfiction picture books and beyond. In this episode, Kirsten speaks with Michelle Cusolito, author of two stunning new nonfiction picture books: "Jellyfish Scientist: Maude Delap and Her Mesmerizing Medusas," illustrated by Ellen Rooney and "In the World of Whales," illustrated by Sibert honoree Jessica Lanan. In this episode, Michelle helps authors by sharing her innovative approach to revision, including: How she uses "magnetic poetry" techniques to reorganize text Why working analog (away from the computer) can unlock creativity The power of asking for specific feedback from critique partners Her unique "placeholder" technique to avoid research rabbit holes How structure decisions influence the entire storytelling process Michelle offers practical wisdom on finding fresh approaches to picture book biographies, knowing when your manuscript needs more work, and developing effective critique partnerships that truly improve your writing. Whether you're struggling with revision or looking to level up your critique group experience, this episode provides actionable techniques from a master of the craft. Links: Blog post about Michelle’s magnetic poetry approach: https://www.michellecusolito.com/blog/2019/7/31/magnetic-poetry-approach-to-writingrevising Liz Lerman’s Critical Response Process: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nFugLSJX_Nc 5 Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Critiques: https://kirstenwlarson.com/2025/05/28/five-tips-for-getting-the-most-out-of-your-critiques-inspired-by-my-convo-with-author-michelle-cusolito/ Michelle’s website: https://www.michellecusolito.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mcusolito/ BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/mcusolito.bsky.social Eight Cousin’s Bookstore: https://www.eightcousins.com #NonfictionPictureBookWriting #ChildrensBookCraftPodcast #WritingForYoungReaders #STEMStorytellingForKids #ResearchTipsForChildrensAuthors #PictureBookStructureAndRevision #InterviewsWithKidlitCreators #RevisionTechniques #PictureBookBiography #NonfictionWritingCraft
Join host Kirsten Larson as she takes you behind the scenes of the delightful picture book Alpacas Here, Alpacas There with author Carrie Tillotson and authenticity reader Mariana Llanos. In this insightful episode of the Nonfiction Kidlit Craft Conversations Podcast, discover the crucial role of cultural authenticity in children's nonfiction and the collaborative process that brings diverse stories to life. Learn about: What authenticity readers do and why they're essential for culturally accurate children's books How alpacas are viewed differently in the US versus their cultural significance in Peru The research process including connecting with experts from Peru The journey from first draft to book contact over a 7-year period How illustration choices enhance cultural representation Whether you're a children's book author, illustrator, educator, or simply love picture books, this episode offers valuable insights into creating authentic, respectful, and engaging nonfiction for young readers. About the Book Alpacas Here, Alpacas There is a rhyming nonfiction picture book comparing alpacas in their native Peru and in North America, beautifully illustrated by Peruvian illustrator Elisa Chavarri and published by Beach Lane Books. Connect with Our Guests Carrie Tillotson: https://carrietillotson.com Mariana Llanos: https://www.marianallanos.com/ Order signed copies: Annie Bloom's Books in Portland, Oregon:https://annieblooms.com/ About the Podcast The Nonfiction Kidlit Craft Conversations Podcast explores the art and business of children's nonfiction with today's leading authors and illustrators. Host Kirsten Larson, author of "Reimagining Your Nonfiction Picture Book," dives deep into research methods, writing techniques, and publishing insights. Subscribe to my newsletter for new episodes and to receive transcripts at https://kirstenwlarson.com! #ChildrensBooks #PictureBooks #KidLit #NonfictionForKids #CulturalAuthenticity #DiverseBooks #AlpacaBook #AuthorInterview #WritingForChildren #PictureBookCreation #Alpacas #PeruvianCulture #PublishingJourney #SensitivityReaders
Let's Fly: How Barrington Irving's Record-Breaking Flight Journey Became a Children's Book | Children's Nonfiction Craft Join host Kirsten Larson as she interviews Chana Stiefel and Captain Barrington Irving about their picture book "Let's Fly: Barrington Irving's Record-Breaking Flight Around the World." Discover the craft behind adapting Barrington's incredible aviation journey from a 50,000-word expedition log to middle grade to a 1,000-word picture book that puts young readers in the co-pilot seat. In this episode of the Nonfiction Kid Lit Craft Conversations podcast, learn about: The process of transforming a middle-grade biography into an engaging picture book How to balance technical aviation details with emotional storytelling for young readers Finding the perfect narrative structure and "thread" for nonfiction picture books The importance of mentorship in both aviation and children's storytelling Behind-the-scenes insights into author-illustrator collaboration This conversation is essential listening for children's book authors, illustrators, educators, librarians, and anyone interested in aviation, STEM education, or the craft of writing compelling nonfiction for children. Links mentioned: The book: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/709610/lets-fly-by-barrington-irving-and-chana-stiefel-illustrated-by-shamar-knight-justice/ https://chanastiefel.com https://flyingclassroom.com https://www.bittschool.com Sign up for Kirsten's newsletter (to get the transcript) and to be notified about future episodes: https://kirstenwlarson.com Keywords: children's nonfiction, picture book writing, aviation for kids, STEM education, Barrington Irving, children's book craft, nonfiction picture books, writing process, first-person narrative, author collaboration, kidlit craft, aviation education, Guinness World Record, narrative structure, author interviews Tags #ChildrensBooks #NonfictionPictureBooks #AviationForKids #WritingCraft #STEMEducation #BarringtonIrving #KidLit #AuthorInterview #PictureBookCraft #WritingProcess #ChildrensAuthors #NonfictionWriting #GoodNightStories #ReadAloud #EducationalContent #ChildrensLiterature #BookCreation #PilotStories #DiverseBooks #AuthorCollaboration
School Visits for Children's Authors: Expert Tips with Ann Koffsky | Nonfiction Kidlit Podcast In this episode of the Nonfiction Kidlit Craft Conversations podcast, host Kirsten Larson interviews Ann Koffsky, author and illustrator of more than 50 children's books, about how to create successful school visits and venue events. Ann shares her expertise on planning, executing, and marketing school visits that engage young readers while helping authors build their career. Whether you're just starting out or looking to improve your existing school visit program, this conversation offers practical advice from an experienced professional. TIMESTAMPS: 00:00 Introduction 02:20 What are school and venue visits? 04:25 Benefits of school visits for authors 09:00 Managing book sales during visits 14:00 Challenges of school visits and classroom management 15:50 Engagement strategies for different age groups 19:09 Creating takeaways and meaningful messages 22:34 Giving away materials when not everyone buys books 25.28 Marketing yourself to schools 35:44 Practical tips and things to know before you start 37:43 Where to find Ann Koffsky FEATURED BOOKS: • Ping Pong Shabbat: The True Story of Champion Estee Ackerman (illustrated by Abigail Rajunov) • The Peddler and the President (illustrated by Pedro Rodriguez) RESOURCES MENTIONED: • Imprint.com (for affordable bookmarks) • Creating coloring pages as giveaways • World Read Aloud Day opportunities • BOCES (NY) and similar educational service organizations CONNECT WITH ANN KOFFSKY: Website: https://annkoffsky.com Instagram: @annkoffsky CONNECT WITH KIRSTEN LARSON: Website: https://kirstenwlarson.com Newsletter: http://kirstenwlarson.com #SchoolVisits #AuthorVisits #ChildrensAuthor #KidLit #NonfictionKidlit #AuthorMarketing #TeacherResources #LibrarianResources #WritingCommunity #BookTalks #PictureBookAuthor #JewishBooks #AuthorTips #WritingAdvice
In this episode of Nonfiction Kid Lit Craft Conversations, host Kirsten W. Larson interviews debut author Kamilani Hurley about her Junior Library Guild selection "Kaho'olawe: The True Story of an Island and Her People." Learn valuable insights about: Kamalani's Journey to Children's Writing Crafting Unique Perspectives Developing Emotional Arcs Balancing Complex Topics Using Sidebars Effectively Writing Tips and Advice Future Projects Perfect for: - Children's book writers - Educators - Illustrators - Anyone interested in Hawaiian history - Nonfiction storytellers Connect with our guest: Website: KamalaniHurley.com Get the transcript: KirstenWlarson.com Subscribe for more episodes about the craft and business of children's nonfiction! #ChildrensBooks #WritingTips #KidLit #NonfictionBooks #AuthorInterview #WritingCommunity #PictureBooks #HawaiianHistory #JuniorLibraryGuild #KidLitCraft
🔍 How to Write Page-Turning Nonfiction Picture Books | Writing Craft Tips with Beth Anderson Master the art of writing gripping nonfiction picture books in this craft-focused interview with award-winning children's author Beth Anderson. Discover the behind-the-scenes process of her latest book "Hiding in Plain Sight: Kate Warne and The Race to Save Abraham Lincoln," illustrated by Sally Wern Comport (Calkins Creek). ✍️ WRITING CRAFT TECHNIQUES COVERED: • Creating page-turning tension in nonfiction • Writing historical events for young readers • Balancing context and pacing in picture books • Developing character emotions in nonfiction • Using research to enhance storytelling • Working with editors and illustrators Perfect for nonfiction picture book writers, children's book authors, and anyone interested in writing engaging historical stories for kids. Beth shares specific examples and practical techniques you can apply to your own writing. 👉 RESOURCES MENTIONED: Nonfiction Fest: www.nffest.com Kirsten's "Reimagine Your Writing" Workshop: writers.kirstenwlarson.com Beth's website: https://BethAndersonWriter.com Free educator guide: https://bethandersonwriter.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/hiding-in-plain-sight-ed-guide.pdf Interiority w/ Mary Kole: HTTPS://KIDLIT.COM/2017/10/23/WHAT-INTERIORITY-IS-AND-WHY-IT-MATTERS/ Psychic distance from Emma Darwin https://emmadarwin.typepad.com/thisitchofwriting/psychic-distance-what-it-is-and-how-to-use-it.html Kirsten's website (to join newsletter for transcripts and for podcast website): https://kirstenwlarson.com #NonfictionPictureBooks #KidLit #WritingTips #ChildrensBooks #PictureBookCraft #WritingCommunity #AmWriting #KidLitWriter #NonfictionWriting #PictureBooks #WritingForChildren #AuthorInterview #HistoricalNonfiction #WritingProcess #KidLitCraft #HistoricalFiction #WritersOfYoutube #AuthorTips #PictureBookWriting #WritingAdvice 📚 Buy "Hiding in Plain Sight": Available at all major booksellers
🎨 Join us for an inspiring conversation with Katherine Roy, the acclaimed creator of "Making More" and "Sea Without a Shore" with Barb Rosenstock! In this episode, Kirsten Larson interviews Katherine about her fascinating journey from RISD graduate to award-winning nonfiction author and illustrator. Discover how a stint as a deckhand sparked Katherine's passion for marine biology, leading to her breakthrough book deal with Simon Boughton. Learn about her unique creative process, from messy sketches to stunning final illustrations, and get insider tips on: The art of nonfiction storytelling Balancing facts with visual appeal Research techniques for illustrators Working with authors and editors Creating dynamic compositions The importance of reference materials #ChildrensBooks #Illustration #PictureBooks #Nonfiction #KidLit #Publishing #CreativeProcess #AuthorInterview #ArtEducation #ChildrensLiterature Links: Scott McCloud's UNDERSTANDING COMICS: https://bookshop.org/p/books/understanding-comics-the-invisible-art-scott-mccloud/228758?ean=9780060976255 Katherine's bookmaking process: https://www.instagram.com/reel/COyWwu0H4Xk/?hl=en Follow Katherine: Website: https://www.katherineroy.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katherineroystudio/ Follow Kirsten: Website: https://kirstenwlarson.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kirstenwlarson/ To get the full transcript of this podcast, sign up for Kirsten's newsletter. It will be included with the next monthly mailing. Sign up here: https://kirsten-w-larson.kit.com/8ca48d284c Want to shape the conversation? Join my Reimagine Insiders paid community for an opportunity to ask future guests your questions. https://writers.kirstenwlarson.com/b/insiders Learn more about my new class, "Crafting Your Nonfiction Picture Book: A step-by-step revision course," here. https://writers.kirstenwlarson.com/b/craftingclass
What does it take to craft a compelling children's nonfiction book proposal? Today I talk to Stephanie Gibeault, author of MAKING SENSE OF DOG SENSES, to learn more about book proposals. Show notes: Classes and resources mentioned: • Jane Friedman’s book proposal post (which also includes a proposal template): https://janefriedman.com/start-here-how-to-write-a-book-proposal/ • Highlights Foundation: https://www.highlightsfoundation.org/ • MG Expository Pitches Post (including Stephanie's pitches): https://kirstenwlarson.com/2024/09/20/winning-expository-book-pitches-examples-and-analysis/ • Stephanie's website: https://stephaniegibeault.com/ • Her X profile is @GibeaultWrites: https://x.com/GibeaultWrites • Her Instagram profile is @stephanie_gibeault: https://www.instagram.com/stephanie_gibeault/ To get the full transcript of this podcast, sign up for Kirsten's newsletter. It will be included with my next monthly mailing. Sign up here: https://kirsten-w-larson.kit.com/8ca48d284c Want to shape the conversation? Join my Reimagine Insiders paid community for an opportunity to ask future guests your questions. https://writers.kirstenwlarson.com/b/insiders
What does it take to craft a compelling children's nonfiction book proposal? Today I talk to Stephanie Gibeault, author of MAKING SENSE OF DOG SENSES, to learn more about book proposals. Show notes: Classes and resources mentioned: Jane Friedman’s book proposal post (which also includes a proposal template): https://janefriedman.com/start-here-how-to-write-a-book-proposal/ Highlights Foundation: https://www.highlightsfoundation.org/ MG Expository Pitches Post (including Stephanie's pitches): https://kirstenwlarson.com/2024/09/20/winning-expository-book-pitches-examples-and-analysis/ Stephanie's website: https://stephaniegibeault.com/ Her X profile is @GibeaultWrites: https://x.com/GibeaultWrites Her Instagram profile is @stephanie_gibeault: https://www.instagram.com/stephanie_gibeault/ To get the full transcript of this podcast, sign up for Kirsten's newsletter. It will be included with my next monthly mailing. Sign up here: https://kirsten-w-larson.kit.com/8ca48d284c Want to shape the conversation? Join my Reimagine Insiders paid community for an opportunity to ask future guests your questions. https://writers.kirstenwlarson.com/b/insiders
How do we craft, edit, and sell poetic nonfiction picture books? Today I talk to Buffy Silverman, author of STARLIGHT SYMPHONY, to learn more about writing in rhyme. Show notes: Classes and resources mentioned: Renée LaTulippe's Lyrical Language Lab: https://www.reneelatulippe.com/lyrical-language-lab/ Laura Purdie Salas's Poetry site: https://laurasalas.com/poetry/ Poetry Friday: https://www.nowaterriver.com/what-in-the-world-is-poetry-friday/ Authors/poets mentioned: April Pulley Sayre Laura Purdie Salas Joyce Sidman Irene Latham Maria Gianferrari Katey Howes David Harrison Books mentioned: THE PUMPKIN SEED'S SECRET by Hannah Barnaby, illustrated by Cédric Abt PIGS DIG A ROAD by Carrie Finison, illustrated by Brian Biggs JUMPER by Jessica Lanan Connect with Buffy at https://buffysilverman.com/ You can order STARLIGHT SYMPHONY wherever books are sold. Please support Buffy by asking your local library to buy a copy of STARLIGHT SYMPHONY for its collection. Details about the book here: https://lernerbooks.com/shop/show/24762 To get the full transcript of this podcast, sign up for my newsletter. It will be included with my next monthly mailing. https://kirsten-w-larson.ck.page/8ca48d284c Want to shape the conversation? Join my Reimagine Insiders paid community for an opportunity to ask future guests your questions. https://writers.kirstenwlarson.com/b/insiders
Learn more about RAINBOW ALLIES and download the educational resources: https://www.nancychurnin.com/rainbow-allies Are you going to be at the National Council of Teachers of English Conference or in the Boston area the weekend before Thanksgiving? Here's Nancy's panel information: Friday, Nov. 22 Boston Convention Center 415 Summer Street, Boston 02210 10:45 Affirming the Humanity of Diversity, 9:30 a.m. t0 10:45 a.m. in Room 209 1:50 p.m. Signing copies of Rainbow Allies in the Publishers Spotlight booth Saturday, Nov. 23 10-12 a.m. Morse Institute Library 14 East Central St, Natick, MA Ten Tree Books, an independent bookstore, will provide and sell books that I will sign. To get the full transcript of this podcast, sign up for my newsletter. It will be included with my next monthly mailing. https://kirsten-w-larson.ck.page/8ca48d284c
What does it take to become the author of a nonfiction picture book series? Nell Cross Beckerman, author of CAVES and VOLCANOES (both illustrated by Kalen Chock) explains. Episode links: Head to Nell's website for classes for writers, links to buy autographed books, educator's guides and more: https://www.nellcrossbeckerman.com/#/ As a special gift, you can watch Nell's Zoom where she shares her whole creative process for writing VOLCANOES, which includes appearances by editor Katie Heit, art director Brian LaRossa, and illustrator Kalen Chock. https://tinyurl.com/Volcanoes-zoom