How to Write an Exceptional Book Description with Michelle Schusterman WriteForKids / Childrens Book Insider 2022-06-22 | From http://writeforkids.org, it's the Kidlit Social, Episode 80. Laura welcomes author, writing instructor and ghost writer Michelle Schusterman. Michelle is the author of over a dozen critically acclaimed novels for middle grade and young adult readers. Her books have received starred reviews from Kirkus, Booklist, and Publisher’s Weekly and have received honors including multiple Junior Library Guild selections, the CBCC Best of 2019 List and the ALA’s Rainbow List.The topic: How to craft a standout, succinct book description. A good book description can help you know if your idea is working and will find an audience, and provides the basis for your query letter. Michelle will discuss how starting with the book description has helped her zero in on the audience and find the hooks that catch the attention of editors, agents, librarians and readers.
The 3 Types of Talking Animals in Childrens Books WriteForKids / Childrens Book Insider 2025-09-17 | From Children's Book Insider, the Children's Writing Monthly, a quick primer on the three main talking animal archetypes found in children's literature. Knowing this vital information will help you craft much stronger animal characters.For more kidlit writing tips, visit https://writeforkids.online
Teach, Dont Preach! Quick Tips for Getting Messages Across in a Childrens Book WriteForKids / Childrens Book Insider 2025-09-16 | Some quick tips for imparting messages to young readers when writing children's books. From Children's Book Insider, the Children's Writing Monthly. For more tips about writing picture books, chapter books, middle grade & young adult novels, visit https://writeforkids.online
Kidlit Social Episode 85 - The Finale WriteForKids / Childrens Book Insider 2022-10-05 | On this final episode, Laura answers a wide range of questions about writing and publishing.
Kidlit Social #84: Debut MG Authors Share Lessons Learned on Their Path to Publication WriteForKids / Childrens Book Insider 2022-09-22 | From http://writeforkids.org, it's the Kidlit Social, Episode 84. Laura welcomes Merriam Sarcia Saunders and Lee Y. Miao, two debut middle grade authors ready to share tips and advice from their publishing journey.Merriam Sarcia Saunders is a professor and psychotherapist specializing in neurodevelopment disorders and divorce. Her debut middle grade novel is Trouble with a Tiny t, (Capstone Press).Lee Y. Miao writes stories about contemporary characters who discover connections to their cultures and families from the past. Her debut middle grade novel is Wei to Go! (Clear Fork Publishing).
Kidlit Social #83: Picture Books - A Look Into the Author/Illustrator Relationship WriteForKids / Childrens Book Insider 2022-09-07 | From writeforkids.org it's the Kidlit Social, Episode 83. On this episode, Laura welcomes John Bray and Josh Cleland, the author/illustrator team behind the acclaimed new picture book The End (Starry Forest Books).Laura, John and Josh talk about the creation of this book and the creative collaborative process necessary for the words and pictures to work together to build a book that is greater than the sum of its parts.If you’re an author, illustrator or just someone who’s fascinated by the creative process that creates excellent picture books, you’ll definitely want to watch this one!
Kidlit Social #82: The Texas Librarians Spearheading a New Anti-Censorship Movement WriteForKids / Childrens Book Insider 2022-07-20 | From writeforkids.org, it's the Kidlit Social, Episode #82. On this episode, Laura welcomes Carolyn Foote and Becky Calzada, two Texas school librarians who, along with librarian Nancy Jo Lambert, are the founders of #FReadom Fighters, a grassroots advocacy group supporting librarians, teachers, students and authors in the raging fight against censorship.Laura, Carolyn and Becky talk about Texas’s “War on Books”, how censorship is spreading across the country and how grass roots movements can effectively fight back.If you’re concerned about the current intellectual and social climate, this is a must-see Social. You’ll find out exactly what’s happening and what you can do in your community to support free expression, freedom of thought and tolerance.
Kidlit Social #81 - Robert Agis of Starry Forest Books WriteForKids / Childrens Book Insider 2022-07-06 | From writeforkids.org it's the Kidlit Social. In this episode, Laura welcomes publisher Robert Agis. Robert is President of Starry Forest Books, an independent publisher with titles ranging from board books to chapter books published under their Starry Forest and Little Hero imprints.Laura and Robert talk about the kinds of books Starry Forest is seeking and their plans for the future. He also shares his views on sparking creativity and collaboration. Robert’s background as an actor, musical director, writer, and publisher gives him a unique insight into the creative process – and how anyone can tap into their best creative self.
Kidlit Social #79: Author Chris Barton on Supporting Teachers & Free Expression in the Classroom WriteForKids / Childrens Book Insider 2022-06-08 | From writeforkids.org it's the Kidlit Social, episode #79. In this edition, Laura welcomes Chris Barton, author of 23 books including the New York Times Bestseller Shark vs. Train. Chris will discuss a vitally important topic: How authors can actively support libraries, teachers and free expression in the classroom.He’ll also offer tips for writing compelling fiction and nonfiction picture books, and share insights into the creation of his newest books Moving Forward: From Space-Age Rides to Civil Rights Sit-Ins with Airman Alton Yates, How to Make a Book (About My Dog) and Fire Truck vs. Dragon.
kidlit social 78 Writing Picture Books with Layers and Purpose WriteForKids / Childrens Book Insider 2022-06-01 | From http://writeforkids.org it's the Kidlit Social, Episode #78. In this edition, Laura welcomes picture book author Carol Gordon Ekster (Some Daddies, Before I Sleep I Say Thank You, You Know What?, Where Am I Sleeping Tonight?: Kids Coming to Terms with Divorce). They discuss why picture books need layers of meaning today in order to earn the right to be published.Carol gives tips for developing ideas into publishing-worthy picture books, as well as revealing how she has turned over 2000 rejections into a learning opportunity. Join us for some inspiration and great advice!
Kidlit Social #77: Meet Sarah Baker, SCBWIs New Executive Director WriteForKids / Childrens Book Insider 2022-05-04 | From http://writeforkids.org, it's the Kidlit Social, episode #77. In this episode, Laura welcomes Sarah Baker, the new Executive Director of the Society for Children’s Book Writers & Illustrators (SCBWI).They talk about her ideas for making the Board of Directors more representative of members, updating SCBWI’s volunteer structures, making the whole organization more inclusive on a local and global scale and redesigning the SCBWI website. We also get Sarah's best advice for aspiring and published authors and illustrators in the modern publishing industry.
Kidlit Social 76: April Cox on Self-Publishing the Right Way WriteForKids / Childrens Book Insider 2022-04-20 | From http://writeforkids.org, it's the Kidlit Social, episode #76. On this episode, we welcome children’s book author and self-publishing coach April Cox.April is the founder of Self-Publishing Made Simple, and Little Labradoodle Publishing. We dig into topics including how to know if self-publishing is right for you, common self-publishing mistakes, and the best places to spend your self-publishing marketing dollars.Self-publishing is a big (and sometimes confusing) subject, so we’re thrilled to have someone as knowledgeable and experienced as April to share her wisdom. Join us!
Kidlit Social #75 - 2nd Anniversary Edition - Laura Answers Your Writing Questions! WriteForKids / Childrens Book Insider 2022-04-06 | From http://writeforkids.org, it's the Kidlit Social, episode 75. On this episode, we celebrate the 2nd Anniversary of the Kidlit Social with an “Ask Laura Anything” special! Laura answers a wide range of questions about writing, editing and submitting your work.
Kidlit Social - J.F. Fox on How to Save School Libraries WriteForKids / Childrens Book Insider 2022-03-16 | From http://writeforkids.org, it's the Kidlit Social for March 15, 2022. In this episode meet author, school book committee chairperson, mother and library advocate J.F. (Jenny) Fox. Jenny's on a quest to save school libraries from drastic funding cuts, and she has some easy to follow steps everyone can take right now that will make a big difference.
Kidlit Social #73: Wildlife Author Laurel Neme on Building a Writing Career Around Your Passions WriteForKids / Childrens Book Insider 2022-02-17 | From http://writeforkids.org, it's the Kidlit Social. In this episode, meet wildlife author and journalist Laurel Neme, author of ANIMAL INVESTIGATORS: How the World’s First Wildlife Forensics Lab is Solving Crimes and Saving Endangered Species, which has been featured on ABC News Nightline and NPR’s Science Friday. She was just nominated (by National Geographic) for a Pulitzer Prize in International Reporting, together with her colleague, Jeff Barbee, for their series of articles on oil drilling in the Okavango. Laura and Laurel chat about how to use your passions to establish yourself as a specialist/expert in magazine and book publications (and build a career around those passions) and Laurel’s research techniques.
Kidlit Social: Lesléa Newman, author of Heather Has Two Mommies, on her remarkable career WriteForKids / Childrens Book Insider 2022-02-02 | From http://writeforkids.org, it's the Kidlit Social. In this episode, meet Lesléa Newman, author of dozens of children’s books that have made a major impact on our culture.In 1989, Lesléa published her first picture book, Heather Has Two Mommies. It’s a work that has deeply inspired parents and children, LGBTQ and otherwise, and has been a lightning rod for censorship and book bannings. Since then, Lesléa has built an award-winning career filled with beautifully written and meaningful books that give life to her motto: 'Changing the World One Book at a Time'.
Kidlit Social 71 Alda P Dobbs on Mining Your Family History to Create Compelling Fiction WriteForKids / Childrens Book Insider 2022-01-19 | From http://writeforkids.org, it's the Kidlit Social, Episode 71. This week, meet Alda P. Dobbs, author of the acclaimed middle grade novel The Barefoot Dreams of Petra Luna. We talk about mining our family history for inspiration, and how to keep the spirit of the true stories alive while crafting compelling fiction.
Kidlit Social: Is My Manuscript Ready to Submit to Publishers? WriteForKids / Childrens Book Insider 2022-01-05 | From http://writeforkids.org, it's the Kidlit Social for January 4, 2022. On this episode, we welcome three respected industry pros, who will help you answer the question: Is My Manuscript is Ready to Submit?You’ll discover the signs to look for when your work is submission ready, and why such knowledge is vital to keeping the doors open to submissions at overwhelmed publishers and literary agencies.Our panel includes: Lynne Marie, author of 6 published picture books, CBI Editor/Agent Spotlight writer, owner Rate Your Story manuscript critique service. Alison Weiss, Acquisitions Editor, Pixel + Ink Marisa Cleveland, Author and Executive Director/Agent at The Seymour Agency
Kidlit Social - Todd Mitchell on How Writers Can Overcome Fear and Doubt WriteForKids / Childrens Book Insider 2021-12-22 | From http://writeforkids.org, it's the Kidlit Social for 12/21/21. In this episode, meet award-winning Middle Grade/YA author and creative writing professor Todd Mitchell. Todd joins us to share insights from his new book Breakthrough: How to Overcome Doubt, Fear, and Resistance to Be Your Ultimate Creative Self.Todd offers radical, perspective-shifting solutions for how to enhance creativity, deal with doubt, procrastination, and criticism, and make creative endeavors more enjoyable and effective.
Kidlit Social #68: Lola Schaefer and Jill Esbaum on Writing Graphic Novels for Beginning Readers WriteForKids / Childrens Book Insider 2021-11-18 | From http://writeforkids.org, it's the Kidlit Social, episode #67. In this edition, meet authors Lola M. Schaeffer and Jill Esbaum. Lola and Jill are both part of Simon & Schuster’s breakthrough Ready to Read Graphics series, which introduces young readers to the graphic novel concept.This is an important trend, and one you should definitely be aware of. Lola and Jill l also share their thoughts on the Easy Reader market and give some great tips.
Kidlit Social: Henry Herz on Writing Stories That Surprise Readers - and Editors WriteForKids / Childrens Book Insider 2021-11-03 | From http://writeforkids.org it's the Kidlit Social for November 2, 2021. This week, meet author and editor Henry Herz. Henry’s ten picture books have earned acclaim for their surprising, unconventional spins on storytelling. On this episode of the Social, Henry shares his advice for taking fresh approaches to kidlit that can set your writing apart. He also delves into the world of short story writing for children and adults, an area in which he’s been particularly successful.
Kidlit Social: Author Marketing, Media Kits and Podcast Promotion WriteForKids / Childrens Book Insider 2021-10-20 | From http://writeforkids.org, it's the Kidlit Social for October 19, 2021, featuring author, podcaster, course creator and coach Janine Bolon.Janine, who’s newest book is Author Podcasting: Be a Stand-out Guest While Taking Your Book on a Virtual Tour, shares her expertise on how authors can promote themselves via virtual podcast tours and by creating standout media kits. Janine is the host of numerous podcasts including The Thriving Solopreneur Show, 3 Minute Money Tip, and The Writers Hour: Creative Conversations with Janine Bolon. If you’re frustrated, intimidated or just plain flummoxed by marketing, this should be a great session for you to check out.
Kidlit Social October 5, Melissa Stewart on Writing Nonfiction for Schools WriteForKids / Childrens Book Insider 2021-10-07 | From http://writeforkids.org, it's the Kidlit Social for October 5, 2021. This week, meet Melissa Stewart, author of "5 Kinds of Nonfiction: Enriching Reading and Writing Instruction with Children’s Books", along with dozens of kidlit nonfiction titles currently in use by school districts as part of their curricula.Melissa discusses creating nonfiction for kids while keeping educators’ needs in mind – a vital skill as schools and libraries are the biggest market for children’s nonfiction.
Kidlit Social: Picture Book Author Nadia Salomon on Getting Published & Promoting Your Work WriteForKids / Childrens Book Insider 2021-09-22 | From http://writeforkids.org, it's the Kidlit Social for September 21, 2021. In this episode, meet Nadia Salomon, author of the wonderful, recently released Goodnight Ganesha (Philomel, 2021, ill. by Poonam Mistry).Nadia joins us to discuss the steps she took to get her debut picture book published, and what she’s done since the release date to assure its success. Expect lots of great tips you can start applying right now to help aid your own publishing journey!
Kidlit Social: Author/Illustrator Katy Tanis on STEM & Bringing the Animal Kingdom to Life WriteForKids / Childrens Book Insider 2021-09-08 | From http://writeforkids.org it's the Kidlit Social for September 7, 2021. In this episode, meet illustrator, explorer and children’s book author Katy Tanis. Katy’s work bursts with color, and a true love for every creature on land, in air and under sea.Katy talks about her writing/illustration process, and gives her advice for aspiring illustrators. She also touches on the necessity for authors and illustrators to do their research and accurately reflect the behaviors of animals in children’s book texts (fiction and nonfiction) and illustrations, as well as the environment. Katy gives some examples of how to do that research, and why this accuracy is important since so many publishers are looking for books with STEM tie-ins (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math).
Debbie: CBI Inspires & Motivates WriteForKids / Childrens Book Insider 2021-08-31 | Children's Book Insider member Debbie Barsotti on how CBI has helped her become a children's book writer. For more info, visit writeforkids.org/come-join-the-insiders-2
Glynis: Subscribing to CBI is an absolute no-brainer WriteForKids / Childrens Book Insider 2021-08-31 | Children's Book Insider member Glynis Davies on how CBI has helped her become a children's book writer. For more info, visit writeforkids.org/come-join-the-insiders-2
Nonfiction Writing Opportunities for Kidlit Writers WriteForKids / Childrens Book Insider 2021-08-18 | Excerpt from Lionel Bender's workshop: The Children's Nonfiction Market: How to Break In & Succeed. To get the full workshop (at a $20 discount), click here: writingblueprints.com/p/the-childrens-nonfiction-market-how-to-break-in-how-to-succeed/?product_id=2156596&coupon_code=SNEAKNF
Kidlit Social Live Editing + Revision Session WriteForKids / Childrens Book Insider 2021-08-18 | From http://writeforkids.org it's the Kidlit Distancing Social for August 17, 2021. This week, it's our first ever live editing session! We chose seven works in progress from CBI subscribers (both fiction and nonfiction) and we invited award-winning author and editing wizard Bonnie Johnston (instructor for Manuscript Magic and author of The 30 Day Novel Workbook, The 30 Day Romance Novel Workbook, and The Writer’s Guide to Getting Organized) to edit each submission live and in real time!This is a tremendous opportunity to really understand the “inner game” of editing, and pick up some valuable tips for editing your own work.
Kidlit Social Nathan Bransford on Finding Your Story Hook WriteForKids / Childrens Book Insider 2021-07-14 | From http://writeforkids.org it's the Kidlit Social for July 13, 2021. In this episode, meet Nathan Bransford, author of the Jacob Wonderbar middle grade series, the writing guides How to Write a Novel and How to Publish a Book, and a former agent with Curtis Brown Ltd. Nathan’s outstanding blog has consistently been named one of the 101 Best Websites for Writers by Writers Digest.Nathan joins Laura to talk about hooks: What is a hook, and how do you know if your manuscript has one? If it does, how do you present the hook in the query letter? If it doesn’t, should you abandon the idea, or can it still find a market?
Kidlit Social Beth Anderson on Picture Book Biographies WriteForKids / Childrens Book Insider 2021-07-08 | From http://writeforkids.org it's the Kidlit Social for July 6, 2021. On this week’s Social, picture book biographer Beth Anderson (“Smelly” Kelly and His Super Senses, Lizzie Demands a Seat, Tad Lincoln’s Restless Wriggle) joins us to discuss the wonderful category of picture book biographies. Laura and Beth will talk about the “new” picture book biographies and how the genre has changed, and what types of approaches are most appealing to editors today. If bringing history to life for young readers excites you, you need to meet Beth!
Nupur: CBI is the Best Resource Out There. Go For it! WriteForKids / Childrens Book Insider 2021-07-01 | Children's Book Insider member Nupur Tustin on how CBI has helped her become a children's book writer. For more info, visit writeforkids.org/come-join-the-insiders-2
Kym: You Cant Go Wrong with CBI WriteForKids / Childrens Book Insider 2021-07-01 | Children's Book Insider member Kym Kettler-Paddock on how CBI has helped her become a children's book writer. For more info, visit writeforkids.org/come-join-the-insiders-2
Sheila: CBI Holds Your Hand Every Step of the Way WriteForKids / Childrens Book Insider 2021-06-30 | Children's Book Insider member Sheila Lewis on how CBI has helped her become a children's book writer. For more info, visit writeforkids.org/come-join-the-insiders-2
Mary Jo: CBI is Always There For You WriteForKids / Childrens Book Insider 2021-06-30 | Children's Book Insider member Mary Jo Huff on how CBI has helped her become a children's book writer. For more info, visit writeforkids.org/come-join-the-insiders-2
Theresa: CBI is a Wealth of Information WriteForKids / Childrens Book Insider 2021-06-30 | Children's Book Insider member Theresa Cocci on how CBI has helped her become a children's book writer. For more info, visit writeforkids.org/come-join-the-insiders-2
Lola M Schaefer: CBI is Invaluable WriteForKids / Childrens Book Insider 2021-06-30 | Children's Book Insider member - and author of more than 200+ children's books - Lola M. Schaefer on how CBI has helped her as a children's book writer. For more info, visit writeforkids.org/come-join-the-insiders-2
Kristie Anne: CBI Helped Me Find My Voice WriteForKids / Childrens Book Insider 2021-06-30 | Children's Book Insider member Kristie-Anne Opaleski on how CBI has helped her become a children's book writer. For more info, visit writeforkids.org/come-join-the-insiders-2
Ketan: I Cant Imagine Writing Without CBI WriteForKids / Childrens Book Insider 2021-06-30 | Children's Book Insider member Ketan Ram on how CBI has helped her become a children's book writer. For more info, visit writeforkids.org/come-join-the-insiders-2
Karla: CBI is the Real Deal WriteForKids / Childrens Book Insider 2021-06-30 | Children's Book Insider member Karla Harris on how CBI has helped her become a children's book writer. For more info, visit writeforkids.org/come-join-the-insiders-2
Kidlit Distancing Social Chapter Book Legend Debbie Dadey WriteForKids / Childrens Book Insider 2021-06-30 | From http://writeforkids.org, it's the Kidlit Social for June 29, 2021. This week, we spend an evening with Debbie Dadey, author of The Adventures of the Bailey School Kids series and one of the most widely-read chapter book authors ever.
Kidlit Social #57: Middle Grade/YA author & filmmaker Shakirah Bourne WriteForKids / Childrens Book Insider 2021-06-23 | From http://writeforkids.org, it's the Kidlit Social for June 22, 2021. This week, meet an exciting new voice in middle grade and young adult writing: Barbadian author and filmmaker Shakirah Bourne. Shakirah shares the impact Caribbean culture has had on her work, how she infuses her books with magical realism and how understanding three act structure from films translates to writing novels.
Kidlit Distancing Social #55 Replay: Lauren Ranalli on Author/Book Marketing that Really Works WriteForKids / Childrens Book Insider 2021-06-02 | From http://writeforkids.org, it's the Kidlit Distancing Social for June 1, 2021. This week, meet Lauren Ranalli, award-winning children’s book writer and marketing coach for aspiring & self-published authors.In this episode, Lauren quizzed attendees’ about their marketing styles, and then gave advice for different marketing and social media strategies based on their answers. Really beneficial to anyone struggling with marketing and promotion!
Kidlit Social Shannon Anderson on Becoming a Full Time Writer WriteForKids / Childrens Book Insider 2021-05-26 | From http://writeforkids.org, it's the Kidlit Distancing Social for May 25. In this episode, meet Shannon Anderson, award-winning author of 14 kidlit books.Shannon just quit her 25-year day job as a teacher to become a writer full-time. She joins us to talk about creating an author brand, when to know it’s time to quit your day job, what mindset attributes writers need to make it as a full-time author and more. This is a really fun and inspiring session.
Kidlit Distancing #53 Violet Lemay on Helping Young Children Find Joy in an Unpredictable World WriteForKids / Childrens Book Insider 2021-05-19 | From http://writeforkids.org, it's the Kidlit Distancing Social , episode 53. This week, meet author/illustrator Violet Lemay. Working primarily in the board book category (for ages 0-4), Violet has illustrated forty books, six of which she also wrote. She’s worked with such publishers as HarperCollins, Penguin Random House, Scholastic, duopress, ‘Magination Press, and Free Spirit Publishing.Violet has a special mission: to take events happening in the world and help young children process them – and find the joy that’s always present.
Kidlit Distancing Social Sneed B Collard III on Middle Grade Mysteries and Nonfiction WriteForKids / Childrens Book Insider 2021-05-12 | From http://writeforkids.org, it's the kidlit Distancing Social for May 11, 2021. This week, meet Sneed B. Collard III, award-winning author of more than 80 books. He’s best known for his science-based nonfiction for readers ages 5-12, and his middle grade and YA mysteries and thrillers. In 2006, Sneed was the recipient of the Washington Post Children’s Book Guild Children’s Nonfiction Writer of the Year Award for his body of work. In 2010, Sneed sought to address the shortage of quality regional children’s books by launching his own publishing company, Bucking Horse Books.Sneed and Laura talk about nonfiction, writing for middle graders, and what it takes to start a publishing company of your own.
Kidlit Distancing Social Michelle Schaub on Picture Books, Concept Books and Poetry WriteForKids / Childrens Book Insider 2021-04-21 | From http://writeforkids.org, it's the Kidlit Distancing Social for April 20, 2021. This episode, we welcome award-winning children’s author & veteran teacher Michelle Schaub to discuss two fascinating topics: How to make concept books come alive by building layers, and using poetry to boost literacy
Kidlit Distancing Social Teen Reader Panel on Young Adult & Middle Grade Books WriteForKids / Childrens Book Insider 2021-04-14 | From http://writeforkids.org it's the Kidlit Distancing Social for April 13, 2021. This week, a panel of teen readers tell us what they like - and don't like - in middle grade and young adult books. They're joined by Sallie Lowenstein, award winning author/illustrator of children’s and young adult books.
Kidlit Distancing Social Jennifer Brody on Speculative Fiction and Graphic Novels WriteForKids / Childrens Book Insider 2021-04-07 | From http://writeforkids.org, it's the Kidlit Distancing Social for April 6, 2021. This week we welcome Jennifer Brody (a.k.a. Vera Strange) the award-winning author of ten books, including The 13th Continuum trilogy, the Disney Chills book series, and the Stoker Finalist graphic novel “Spectre Deep 6” Laura and Jennifer talk about writing speculative fiction for middle grade and young adult, and what’s happening in the exciting graphic novel market.
Kidlit Distancing Social: Building an Author Platform with Jennifer Swanson WriteForKids / Childrens Book Insider 2021-03-31 | From http://writeforkids.org , it's the Kidlit Distancing Social for March 30, 2021. In this episode, we welcome Jennifer Swanson, award winning author of over 40+ books for children (including Parent’s Choice Gold Award winner Save the Crash Test Dummies! and Beastly Bionics). The subject: the do’s and don’ts of creating an effective author platform (i.e. your online presence that enhances your ability to reach potential readers).Jennifer discusses smart strategies to begin building your platform, the most important first steps, how to target the right readers/buyers and lots more.
