Podcasts about scbwi

In this episode of the Watchung Booksellers Podcast, children's book author/illustrators Kristine Lombardi and Cat Min talk about their process and love of kids' literature.Kristine A. Lombardi has written and illustrated several books for children, including Lovey Bunny, Mr. Biddles, My Wish for the World and The Grumpy Pets, which garnered an International Literacy Association Children's Choice Selection. She loves quirky characters and tender stories written with lots of heart. Her next book "Crouton" is coming from Random House in 2026! She lives and works in Montclair, New Jersey. Cat Min is a Korean American author-illustrator, animator, and twin mom. Cat grew up in Hong Kong, where she spent most of her childhood drawing and making comic books out of printer paper and staples with her best friend. She studied animation and film at NYU Tisch and went on to complete the Illustration & Visual Storytelling Summer Residency Program at the School of Visual Arts in New York. She is also a member of SCBWI, Women Who Draw, and the Society of Illustrators in New York. Her debut picture book, Shy Willow, was featured in the NYT twice and translated to many different languages. Her other picture books include The Little Toymaker and The Shadow & the Ghost.Resources: ProcreateBooks:A full list of the books and authors mentioned in this episode is available here. Register for Upcoming Events.The Watchung Booksellers Podcast is produced by Kathryn Counsell and Marni Jessup and is recorded at Watchung Booksellers in Montclair, NJ. The show is edited by Kathryn Counsell. Original music is composed and performed by Violet Mujica. Art & design and social media by Evelyn Moulton. Research and show notes by Caroline Shurtleff. Thanks to all the staff at Watchung Booksellers and The Kids' Room! If you liked our episode please like, follow, and share! Stay in touch!Email: wbpodcast@watchungbooksellers.comSocial: @watchungbooksellersSign up for our newsletter to get the latest on our shows, events, and book recommendations!

Send us a textEpisode Summary: In this candid "Ask B&L" episode, Beth and Lisa answer a listener question about agent transparency, diving into the red flags of a rocky publishing relationship. They also unpack book coaching, revising habits, and finding sanity as a writer in uncertain times.Guest Bio: No guest this episode – just your favorite duo, Beth McMullen and Lisa Schmid, authors and co-hosts of Writers With Wrinkles.Key Discussion Points:The value of disconnecting: Beth shares her experience of mentally unplugging and how it relates to mindfulness and creativity.Book coaching launch: Beth introduces her new professional book coaching services and website BethMcMullenBooks.com, highlighting offerings like manuscript feedback and query letter Quick Wins.Listener Q&A: A writer asks if it's normal for an agent to never share a submission list—spoiler: it's not. Beth and Lisa stress the importance of communication, red flag awareness, and using organizations like SCBWI and Authors Guild for support.Agent dynamics: The hosts discuss how writers can (and should) advocate for themselves and treat agent relationships as business partnerships.Writing advice: The age-old “edit-as-you-go” dilemma resurfaces, with encouragement to push through messy first drafts instead of polishing prematurely.Podcast behind-the-scenes: From sunglasses in their logo to sound editing quirks, Beth and Lisa reflect on their origin story and podcast process.Podcast love: Lisa shouts out her appearance on Middle Grade Matters with Shannon Ballam—praised for her smooth delivery and sharp interviews. Listen here: Middle Grade Matters (link to be added in show notes).Conclusion: From industry tips to emotional honesty, this episode is a warm, funny, and information-packed check-in with Beth and Lisa. Writers like Luna—aspiring, overwhelmed, and determined—will find comfort and guidance in their down-to-earth advice and hard-won experience. Don't forget to visit WritersWithWrinkles.net to support the show, explore past episodes, and join the writing community. Support the show Visit the WebsiteWriters with Wrinkles Link Tree for socials and more!

Grace and Alvina talk about different organizations and their mission statements, and start brainstorming a possible mission statement for this podcast! They start by talking about their values. For the Fortune Cookie segment they talk about the announcement of a surprise new book by Stephen King and Maurice Sendak. Then, Grace asks Alvina to tell her about the book MIRROR GIRLS by Kelly McWilliams. See complete show notes at www.bookfriendsforever.com. Click here to become a Patreon member: https://www.patreon.com/Bookfriendsforever1. See info about Grace Lin's books here: gracelin.com.  Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bookfriendsforever_podcast/  

Alvina is back from Kindling Words and so she and Grace talk about the importance of community (Alvina's word of the year!) and how to build community. They talk about which communities they are currently a part of, and which communities they want to build--including the Book Friends Forever community! For the Fortune Cookie segment they talk about two bits of publishing news: the naming of Mac Barnett as the National Ambassador for Young People's Literature, and AI-generated books in the library. And then, in honor of Black History Month, Alvina tells Grace about the book DAVE THE POTTER by Laban Carrick Hill and Bryan Collier.  See complete show notes at www.bookfriendsforever.com. Click here to become a Patreon member: https://www.patreon.com/Bookfriendsforever1. See info about Grace Lin's books here: gracelin.com. Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bookfriendsforever_podcast/   

Send us a textIn this episode, host Dr. Almitra Berry welcomes author Tonya Duncan Ellis, the brilliant creator of the bestselling Sophie Washington book series and the picture book "They Built Me for Freedom." Tonya shares how her personal experiences and the rich history of Black culture inspired her work, which celebrates identity and engages young readers in meaningful conversations about freedom. The discussion explores the vital role of storytelling in shaping our understanding of America's Black history and the importance of representation for children of color.Tonya Duncan Ellis is author of the bestselling Sophie Washington children's chapter book series and THEY BUILT ME FOR FREEDOM (Balzer + Bray an imprint of Harper Collins, 2024) She is a member of the Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI), the Authors Guild, Black Creators in KidLit, and the Brown Bookshelf's Highlights Foundation-sponsored, Amplify Black Stories storyteller cohort. In 2021, she won the Austin SCBWI Cynthia Leitich Smith Writing Mentor Award. She is a 2022 winner of SCBWI's Independently Published Book Launch Marketing Grant. Represented by Sara Megibow of KT Literary, Tonya holds an MBA degree from Washington University in St. Louis and a BA degree in French from Centre College of Kentucky. She lives in Houston, Texas and is married with three children.Subscribe to our Patreon channel for exclusive content! Just go to patreon.com/3EPodcast. Thanks!Support the showJoin our community. Go to bit.ly/3EPSubs and sign up for our bi-weekly newsletter and exclusive content.

Valerie Ellis loves helping kids and parents connect with God and each other in the everyday moments. She is an author, speaker, and founder of Our Everyday Parables, an online resource with book reviews and ideas for families pursuing faith and compassion. A certified teacher with countless hours in children's ministry, Valerie writes books that serve kids at the intersection of faith and fun. Her latest book is Let's Go! Bible Adventures: Real Bible Stories for Kids Who Love Trains, Tractors, Ice Cream Trucks, and More! Valerie is a frequent speaker for The MomCo (formerly MOPS) and similar groups. She stays involved with her own local chapters of The MomCo, SCBWI, and the Texas Library Association as well. Valerie is also a nonprofit consultant, trainer, and grant writer in the Houston area, where she lives with her husband, Josh, and their two boys. An Ohio-born, Texas-raised TCU Horned Frog, Valerie loves live music, is obsessed with Big Bend National Park, and always has a good reason for not putting her shoes back in the closet. Connect with Valerie on her website, Instagram, X, Pinterest, TikTok, and Goodreads, or sign up for her Newsletter here.

Hi Everyone! My special guest today is Monica Acker, children's book author and agency sib at Bradford Literary Agency. More about Monica. Monica Acker is a writer and educator. She holds a BA in creative arts and a MAT degree in childhood education. Monica is a member of SCBWI, 12x12, and Children's Book Insider. She lives in Reading, Massachusetts, with her family. She is the author of Brave Like Mon published by Beaming Book. Visit Monica's website: https://www.monicaacker.com/ Monica's IG Monica's Twitter Thanks for listening!

Sara Gentry is a Math Ph.D. turned Author Accelerator certified book coach for fiction, memoir, and nonfiction book writers. She uses her analytical and logical superpowers to help writers structure their ideas into a cohesive and compelling narrative that resonates with their audience. Sara is the host of KidLit Summer Camp and Novel Kickoff, and she is a member of the SCBWI, 12x12 Challenge, and WFWA writing communities. You can connect with Sara on her website (solutionsforwriters.com), and on Instagram, Threads, and Twitter @writewithsara. Bended Love is out!! https://books.katcaldwell.com/bended-loveGet the prequel, Bended Dream, here: https://books.katcaldwell.com/bended-prequel Like Substack? Find me at Lessons In Story. https://lessonsinstory.substack.comSign up for my writers' newsletter to learn more about the craft of writing, know when my workshops are and be the first to get exclusive information on my writing retreats. https://katcaldwell.com/writers-newsletterWant more information on my books, author swaps, short stories and what I'm reading? Sign up for my readers' newsletter. https://storylectory.katcaldwell.com/signup You can always ask me writing questions on instagram @katcaldwell_writing

Please welcome author Rachel Funez to the show! Her recent release, Sonia and the Super Duper Disaster, illustrated by Kelly Kennedy came out in July of this year. I met Rachel through the Rocky Mountain chapter of the SCBWI where she is very active as the critique coordinator and doing so many fabulous things. Please enjoy! Some Highlights: Mysteries, puns, and wordplay. Putting yourself out there as neurodivergent. The necessity of community.♥️ Life coaches for writers.

This week I'm talking with Rebecca A. Dolence about writing scary stories for kids. Because it's almost Halloween! Come join the fun.Rebecca A. Dolence is a Certified Author Accelerator Book Coach, writer, and member of the SCBWI. Her passion lies in serving fiction writers who are serious about investing in their writing success. With a proven track record and personalized writing methods, Rebecca helps writers bring their stories out of their heads and onto paper with confidence and purpose.http://www.radnotesbookcoaching.com https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/sl/uqL0Uh7 (Creature of the Month Club)https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/sl/FyIyYDb (Free Villain Origin Story Worksheet)Bended Love is out!! https://books.katcaldwell.com/bended-loveGet the prequel, Bended Dream, here: https://books.katcaldwell.com/bended-prequel Like Substack? Find me at Lessons In Story. https://lessonsinstory.substack.comSign up for my writers' newsletter to learn more about the craft of writing, know when my workshops are and be the first to get exclusive information on my writing retreats. https://katcaldwell.com/writers-newsletterWant more information on my books, author swaps, short stories and what I'm reading? Sign up for my readers' newsletter. https://storylectory.katcaldwell.com/signup You can always ask me writing questions on instagram @katcaldwell_writing

Send us a textIn episode 37 of Writers With Wrinkles, co-hosts Beth McMullen and Lisa Schmid answer listener questions about writing, with a focus on the differences between beta readers and critique partners, how to find critique partners, and advice on book comps for queries. Lisa also offers a PSA on dogs eating too many cupcakes.Key Discussion Points:Beta Readers vs. Critique Partners:Beth and Lisa explain that beta readers provide general reader feedback, focusing on how engaging a manuscript is, while critique partners offer more technical, writer-focused critiques. Beta readers are typically not writers, while critique partners should be.How to Find Critique Partners:They discuss several avenues for finding critique partners, including professional organizations like SCBWI, Facebook groups, and writing communities. They stress the importance of finding the right fit and being open to change if the partnership isn't productive.Book Comps in Queries:The hosts advise on how to select appropriate comparative titles for book pitches, emphasizing that comps should be from within the last two years to reflect current market trends. They suggest using older favorites as a starting point for finding more recent comps.Barley the Dog & the Box of Cupcakes:Lisa recounts how her dog, Barley, ate a box of chocolate cupcakes, prompting her to call a pet poison hotline, which offers critical advice to pet owners in similar situations.Conclusion:The episode provides actionable advice for aspiring writers, helping them understand the critical role beta readers and critique partners play in the manuscript development process. Beth and Lisa emphasize the importance of feedback in refining a book and navigating the publishing landscape. They also prepare listeners for the next episode, featuring literary agent Amy Nielsen.Mentioned Links:SCBWI (Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators)Mystery Writers of America Pet Poison Helpline Support the showSubscribe Visit the WebsiteTwitter: @BethandLisaPodInsta: @WritersWithWrinklesWriters with Wrinkles Link Tree for more!

In this episode, host Christy Yaros and guest Sara Gentry dive into the vital role of community for KidLit writers. They explore various types of writing communities, from large organizations like SCBWI to intimate critique groups, and discuss how to choose the right community for your needs. Christy and Sarah share valuable tips on balancing free and paid resources, the benefits of connecting with fellow writers, and how community support can enhance your writing journey. Whether you're a seasoned author or just starting out, this episode offers practical advice on finding your people in the world of children's literature and reminds listeners that in the sometimes solitary world of writing, you're never truly alone. Follow us on Instagram and X/Twitter: @CoachingKidLit For more information about Sharon Skinner, visit bookcoachingbysharon.com or follow her on Instagram @sharon_skinner_author_bookcoach and X/Twitter @SharonSkinner56. For more information about Christy Yaros, visit christyyaros.com or follow her on Instagram and X/Twitter @ChristyYaros. You can find Sara Gentry at solutionsforwriters.com or connect with her on Instagram, Threads, and X @writewithsara.

Kelly, Nancy and children's book author Sue Ganz-Schmitt discuss Aphantasia: • How to say it?: Uh-Fan-Tay-See-Ya. What is it? Aphantasia is the inability to visualize. Otherwise known as image-free thinking. In simpler terms, if you ask someone with aphantasia to imagine a beach, we think of the concept of a beach. We know what a beach is and can describe it, but we can't “see” it in our mind's eye. It's not just the visual sense that's impacted. Aphantasia can affect all or some of the other senses in your imagination. It is also called mind-blindness. Aphantasia Network: https://aphantasia.com/guide/ Sue Ganz Schmitt is a children's book author, musical theater producer, SCBWI member, and philanthropist. She holds an MFA from Vermont College of Fine Arts in writing for children and young adults. Sue has performed in RENT on Broadway, run a marathon, and pursues other improbable and exciting challenges—as often as she can. Sue's newest book, SKYBOUND!: Starring Mary Myers as Carlotta, Daredevil Aeronaut & Scientist, is illustrated by Iocopo Bruno. You can often find Sue at her home in the Los Angeles mountains, eyes to the stars, dreaming up something new. Check out the video on YouTube of Kelly's interview Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Put your hands together for today's guest, kidlit author-illustrator Lea Maryanow! I met Lea through 12x12 and had already unknowingly read her beautiful book nearly a year before!  I hope you enjoy our chat and hearing some much needed words of encouragement (speaking for myself here

Please welcome author Jessica Speer to this episode of Getting to the Heart of Why We Write! Jessica is such a phenomenal human and I've enjoyed every time our paths have crossed in SCBWI events, seeing her present at panels and conferences.  If you ever get the chance, sign up for one of her classes or presentations. Highly highly recommend!

Please welcome author illustrator Ana Velez to the show!!!

I was so fortunate to meet Beth Anderson through the Rocky Mountain chapter of SCBWI years ago and today I get to share her with all of you!!  Beth is such an encouraging, helpful, and kind presence in the kidlit world. Her blog is a wonderful resource and her books will lead you down all the rabbit holes of history you never knew you needed to explore. Some Highlights

This is Nancy Miller for My Creative Life Podcast, interviewing Sharon Pegram, children's book author and freelance copy editor. Here is more about Sharon: Sharon Pegram writes middle grade and YA novels and runs a freelance editing business, Grim Reader Editing (grimreaderediting.com). She has volunteered extensively with the Southern Breeze region of SCBWI and is passionate about building communities of encouragement and mutual support among creators. Sharon's website Sharon's IG Sharon's X/Twitter Thanks for listening!

Please welcome author Lauren Ranalli to the show today! I found Lauren through the kidlit community online and had so much fun talking with her about inspiration, book nerdiness, and all things books and writing. I hope you enjoy the episode! Some Highlights:  She first started writing stories after her son was born. As an interfaith family, her son was given many Christmas books, but she had a hard time finding any similar titles featuring Hanukkah. And so The Great Latke Cookoff began to take root, later becoming her first published picture book. At the time she didn't know self publishing was a thing (much like myself) and she ended up waiting 6 years before doing anything with the manuscript. Once she learned more about self publishing from a friend, she went for it! Lauren published her first book in  2018 since has published 3 others since, while also having a ton of fun doing it. The myth that self publishing is an option for people who can't get a publisher. It's a choice. How much control do you want over it? Importance of creating and carving out quiet time. We're all researching the same thing–the beauty in sharing resources and spending your precious hours on making your book amazing. Benefits of a business mastermind–not just with authors, but other business owners. Play around with the format, in person, virtual, meeting times and days, adapting as the years go on. Advantages of having control over the whole publication process in self publishing whenever you face obstacles. The myth of self publishing that you go it alone. If you are not an illustrator, DO NOT ILLUSTRATE YOUR BOOK. You can have a team, editors, illustrators, website designers, and more. SCBWI is a great place to start looking for illustrators and other pros on your team. Also this post on Lauren's site about working with an illustrator. I loved hearing Lauren talk about why she writes–because of the curiosity it inspires. She wants to see more stories out there. Picture books inspire curiosity to learn more which is exactly what my new podcast project, The Curious Compassionate, with Picture Book Peeps is about. More about Snow Day at The Zoo: “What happens when the zookeeper's children get snowed in with their favorite animals? Find out in this wonderful winter adventure! A rhyming picture book that is perfect for young readers and animal lovers.” Available for pre-order now, out on November 30, 2024. Other Links: Lauren's Website Snow Day at The Zoo by Lauren Ranalli and illustrated by Mollie Olinyk  All of Lauren's Books Lauren's Training and Coaching info Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators Lauren's Free Self-Publishing Guide Book Recommendations: Yellowface by R. F. Kuang Erasure by Percival Everett Tom Lake by Ann Patchett and if you want to revisit Our Town by Thornton Wilder first I Absolutely, Positively Love My Spots by Lid'ya C Moore and illustrated by Niña MataThank you, Lauren! And stay tuned for next week's episode with author Marzieh Abbas!

Send me a Text Message!Thriller 101 NewsletterThriller 101 Agent Pitch ContestLearn more about Michelle Z. Jackson as an agentLearn more about Michelle Z. Jackson as an author Heather Levy EpisodeConnect with David on TwitterEPISODE INFO:If you're hoping to land an agent this year, you're going to love this conversation with Michelle. We talk about:Connecting your pitch to your openingHow to maintain tensionThe benefits of active voice,What agents look for in a submissionAnd what makes them pass on a project.BIO:Michelle Z. Jackson represents books that evoke heartfelt emotions and fervent conversations among its readers. Her mission is to mentor and develop authors, particularly those from underrepresented communities, and help them build a brand of quality and authentic reads.Originally from Jamaica, West Indies, she is now a literary agent with LCS Literary. She began her agenting career as an intern and then a Literary Associate with Olswanger Literary.  She is also a published author and has earned educational degrees from New York University, SUNY at StonyBrook, Teachers College Columbia University and Argosy University. She is a member of AALA and SCBWI.Tweet me @DavidRGwyn

Mentioned in this episode:SCBWI Marvelous Midwest 2024Gary D. SchmidtSherri L. SmithJames Solheim Interviewees:Aaron Fox (MO)Debbie Gonzales (MI)Kat Higgs-Coulthard (MI)Leslie Helakowski  (MI)Danielle Defoe (MI)Kathy Halsey (OH)Amy Flynn (OH)Sheila Willobee (MI)Kathy Groth (WI) -  Sunken Shipwrecks of Lake Michigan, Ocean Party (Illustrated by Becca Hart)Joyce Uglow (WI) - Stuck: The Story of the La Brea Tar Pits (Illustrated by Valerya Milovanova )Our Books for Children and Young Adults:Flying Lessons & Other Stories Edited by Ellen Oh; Kelly's short story in this middle grade anthology is “The Beans and Rice Chronicles of Isaiah Dunn.”Isaiah Dunn Is My Hero by Kelly J. BaptistIsaiah Dunn Saves the Day by Kelly J. BaptistThe Electric Slide and Kai by Kelly J. Baptist; Illustrated by Darnell JohnsonThe Swag is in the Socks by Kelly J. BaptistEb & Flow by Kelly J. BaptistReady, Set, Dough! by Kelly J. BaptistSee You in the Cosmos by Jack ChengThe Many Masks of Andy Zhou by Jack ChengJumped In by Patrick Flores-ScottAmerican Road Trip by Patrick Flores-ScottThe Griffins of Castle Cary by Heather ShumakerFind us online:Kelly J. Baptist: kellyiswrite.comJack Cheng: jackcheng.comPatrick Flores-Scott: patrickfloresscott.comHeather Shumaker: heathershumaker.comEmail us: hello@booksmitten.us@booksmittenpodFollow our progress on X/Twitter this season with #booksmittenchallengeProduced by Jack ChengMusic by Duck Duck Chicken

In this episode, we interview Bitsy Kemper, a prolific author of children's books and a passionate advocate for authors navigating the publishing industry.The theme of this episode revolves around the resilience required in the publishing industry, including the personal challenges and triumphs of maintaining a career in writing over time. The discussion also touches on ghostwriting and practical advice for aspiring authors.Key Discussion Point1. Bitsy Kemper's Journey: From marketing to becoming a celebrated children's book author, highlighting her persistence and adaptability.2. Overcoming Rejection: We discuss how to handle rejection in the publishing world, emphasizing it's not personal but rather about finding the right fit.3. Ghostwriting and Writing for Hire: Bitsy explains her experiences and the skills necessary to succeed in ghostwriting, including how to adopt the voice of the client and the importance of discretion.4. Advice for Aspiring Authors: Practical tips on navigating the publishing landscape, leveraging platforms like SCBWI, and how to use personal and professional challenges as growth opportunities.5. Thirty-One Day Author Platform Challenge: Bitsy introduces a program designed to help writers enhance their online presence incrementally, which is crucial in today's digital-forward publishing environment.Bitsy's insights provide invaluable lessons on perseverance, not taking rejections personally, and strategic career maneuvers in writing. She emphasizes the importance of community support, continuous learning, and strategic marketing to sustain a successful writing career.Mentioned Links:Website31 Day Platform ChallengeList of Publishers Moonkarta***The Guardian - Best Podcasts of the Week******Radio Times - Pick of the Best...Listen on: Apple Podcasts SpotifySupport the Show.Website: https://www.writerswithwrinkles.net/Threads: @WritersWithWrinklesInsta: @WritersWithWrinklesTwitter: @BethandLisaPodSupport Writers With Wrinkles - become a subscriberEmail: Beth@BethMcMullenBooks.comWriters with Wrinkles Link Tree for more!

My guest today on the Online for Authors podcast is Ally Dalsimer, author of the book, It's Okay Not to be Fabulous Every Day. Ally is a published author, award-winning environmental expert, former political candidate, and an experienced life coach. Life highlights include traveling the world, rescuing 7 cats, raising two children, and surviving the death of her husband and mother. Her breadth of life experience infuses her ‘Fabulous' book with incredible insights and lessons learned.   Ally has undergraduate degrees in English and Psychology from the University of Richmond, and a Master's in Public Policy, Environmental Law and Economics Track from Georgetown University. She lives in Virginia with her rescue cat Pooma. She has authored or co-authored more than 50 articles, technical reports, proceedings, brochures, and now a book! She is a member of ALLi, SCBWI, TWSA, and AAUW. Her new book, Jack & Ginger: An Unexpected Friendship will be available in 2024! In my book review, I stated It's Okay Not To Be Fabulous Every Day by Ally Dalsimer is an inspirational read reminding us that although we should have goals and strive to reach them, we don't have to be at the top of our game every single day. In fact, it isn't possible to do so. When that is our aim, we are sure to become disappointed in ourselves. Ally began this book as a book of 'lessons learned' for her children as they began to move away from home and start their adult lives. In the end, she realized that everyone needs these bits of wisdom. Each chapter has quotes from sources you will recognize, such as Martin Luther King, Jr, but she also throws in Yoda. In fact, Ally is willing to share truth wherever she finds it to help each of us live a more fulfilled life. ​ I think this book would be a perfect source of daily inspiration and could easily be used for prompts for daily journal writing. It is not a 'one and done' book. Instead, it will stay on your bedside table for easy access whenever life seems just a little bit too hard. You can follow Author Ally Dalsimer: Website: www.allydalsimer.com IG: @ally.dalsimer X: @AllyDalsimer LinkedIn: @ally-dalsimer-5a872a10/ FB: @allydalsimer1 Teri M Brown, Author and Podcast Host: https://www.terimbrown.com FB: @TeriMBrownAuthor IG: @terimbrown_author X: @terimbrown1 #allydalsimer #itsokaynottobefabulouseveryday #itsokaynottobefabulous #selfhelp #inspirational #terimbrownauthor #authorpodcast #onlineforauthors #characterdriven #researchjunkie #awardwinningauthor #podcasthost #podcast #readerpodcast #bookpodcast #writerpodcast #author #books #goodreads #bookclub #fiction #writer #bookreview

We had the absolute pleasure of interviewing literary agent Queen THE Eva Scalzo

In this episode of the SCBWI Podcast, we are joined by Cátia Chien!Cátia Chien is a children's book illustrator from Sao Paulo, Brazil. She is currently working in New York City. She graduated from the Art Center College of Design in Pasadena, California in 2004. She has produced work for several publishing companies, including Random House, Penguin Books and Candlewick Press.Buy The Bear and the Moon here: https://bookshop.org/p/books/the-bear-and-the-moon-matthew-burgess/14350474?ean=9781452171913and her other books here: https://bookshop.org/contributors/catia-chien-00827b04-86e9-47f1-82d2-fbf0ddba864eand check out the rest of her art here:https://www.catiachien.com/SCBWI on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scbwi/SCBWI on Twitter: https://twitter.com/scbwiBecome an SCBWI member today: https://www.scbwi.org/join-scbwi/Shop the SCBWI Bookshop.org page: https://bookshop.org/shop/SCBWISupport the show

In this episode of the SCBWI Podcast, we are joined by Richard Jesse Watson!Port Townsend painter, illustrator, and sculptor, Richard Jesse Watson, has received numerous awards and several of his books were New York Times Bestsellers. His paintings hang in museums, corporate and private collections internationally. Watson is an accomplished artist and perpetual experimenter. He often breaks out of boxes in his quest for originality. "His work is a process of thinking: …to balance and nod to the extremes on either end of an idea.” Kristin Tollefson, Bainbridge Island Museum of Art.“I love being in this zone coaxing dreams into reality or caressing reality back into a dream.”  Buy The Legend of Saint Christopher: From the Golden Legend, Englished by William Caxton, 1483 here: https://bookshop.org/p/books/the-legend-of-saint-christopher-from-the-golden-legend-englished-by-william-caxton-1483-margaret-hodges/12578003?ean=9780802853608and check out the rest of his art here:https://www.rjwatsonart.com/SCBWI on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scbwi/SCBWI on Twitter: https://twitter.com/scbwiBecome an SCBWI member today: https://www.scbwi.org/join-scbwi/Shop the SCBWI Bookshop.org page: https://bookshop.org/shop/SCBWISupport the show

Tune in to hear Head of School, Dr. Mark Carleton, chat with acclaimed children and adult author, Candace Fleming. This episode which takes a peek behind the scenes at Candace's writing is now live and available for download on our People of PS Podcast. Candace Fleming is the author of more than forty books. Among her nonfiction titles are Giant Squid, Amelia Lost: The Life and Disappearance of Amelia Earhart, and The Family Romanov: Murder, Rebellion and the Fall of Imperial Russia.  Her award-winning titles include The Rise and Fall of Charles Lindbergh which won the 2021 YALSA Excellence in Nonfiction, and Honeybee: The Busy Life of Apis Mellifera, winner of the 2021 Sibert Medal.  She is also the recipient of the Los Angeles Times Book Prize, and the Orbis Pictus Award, as well as a two-time recipient of the Boston Globe/Horn Book Award for Nonfiction, the ALA Sibert Honor, and SCBWI's Golden Kite Award.Presbyterian School was honored to host Candace Fleming on campus last month. She visited with all PK3-8th grade students and tailored her presentations to the different age students: for Early Childhood, the focus was on discovering and sharing stories; for Lower School, Fleming delved deeper into the writing process, discussing topics like structure and revision; and for Middle School, she focused on her writing research methods, the use of primary documents, and editorial choices. Fleming's interactive presentations, accompanied by visually stimulating slides, incorporated elements of storytelling and humor to ignite students' enthusiasm for the wonderful world of writing and reading.

While Grace is on sabbatical, Alvina talked with author Shelli R. Johannes about the book BIG MAGIC by Elizabeth Gilbert and how it changed her perspective on writing and publishing. See complete show notes at www.bookfriendsforever.com. Click here to become a Patreon member: https://www.patreon.com/Bookfriendsforever1. See info about Grace Lin's books here: gracelin.com. Buy Girl Scout Cookies from Grace's daughter Hazel here: https://digitalcookie.girlscouts.org/scout/hazel476196. Follow us in Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bookfriendsforever_podcast/

This week we dived deep into the picture book publishing process. Whether you're at the beginning of your journey, stuck in the middle, or just looking for that extra nudge, we've covered everything you need to know to navigate this challenging yet rewarding path.Our Picture Book Journey: We share the latest on Cat's Rule and the unagented submission process. Despite the silence from publishers, we're just at the beginning!Dealing with Submissions: We talked about the frustration of unresponsive publishers. Yet, there's hope in platforms like Entangled Publishing's Little Lark, which allows authors to track their submission's progress. It's a game-changer in maintaining sanity during the waiting game.Joining SCBWI: If you haven't already, joining the Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI) is a must. It's been a beacon of support, resources, and community for both of us. From critique partners to craft agents, SCBWI offers everything you need to grow in the kid lit world.Craft Development Resources: We also highlighted invaluable resources for honing your craft, such as the Highlights Foundation, the Writing Barn, and the Children's Book Academy. These platforms offer workshops, classes, and webinars that are accessible virtually, making them perfect for any schedule and budget.Feedback is Gold: Embrace feedback on your work. It's the cornerstone of growth. Sharing your work, even when it's scary, opens the door to invaluable insights that can transform your writing.Contests and Pitch Parties: Don't overlook contests and Twitter pitch parties like #PBPitch. They're fantastic opportunities to gain visibility, feedback, and even catch the eye of agents and publishers. Plus, winning or being shortlisted in contests can be a significant boost to your author bio.Querying Resources: When you're ready to query, resources like Sylvia Liu's Advanced Tips for Querying Agents and the monster list of picture book agents by Heather Ayris Burnell are indispensable. Final Thoughts: Putting yourself out there is essential. Whether it's joining SCBWI, submitting to contests, or querying agents, each step you take brings you closer to your dream of publishing a picture book.Remember, we're in this together, cheering each other on every step of the way. So, dive into the resources we've shared, embrace the journey, and keep writing. Your story deserves to be told, and the world is waiting to hear it.Blog versionVideo summary  Support the showWebsite: https://www.writerswithwrinkles.net/Threads: @WritersWithWrinklesInsta: @WritersWithWrinklesTwitter: @BethandLisaPodSupport Writers With Wrinkles - become a subscriberEmail: Beth@BethMcMullenBooks.comWriters with Wrinkles Link Tree for more!

In this episode of the SCBWI Podcast, we are joined by Kwame Mbalia!Kwame is a husband, father, writer, a New York Times bestselling author, a former pharmaceutical metrologist, and a publisher with Freedom Fire Books, an imprint of Disney-Hyperion. His debut middle-grade novel, TRISTAN STRONG PUNCHES A HOLE IN THE SKY was awarded a Coretta Scott King Author Honor, and it—along with the sequels TRISTAN STRONG DESTROYS THE WORLD and TRISTAN STRONG KEEPS PUNCHING—is published by Rick Riordan Presents/Disney-Hyperion. He is the co-author of LAST GATE OF THE EMPEROR with Prince Joel Makonnen, from Scholastic Books, and the editor of the #1 New York Times bestselling anthology BLACK BOY JOY, published by Delacorte Press. A Howard University graduate and a Midwesterner now in North Carolina, he survives on Dad jokes and Cheezits.Buy Rick Riordan Presents Tristan Strong Punches a Hole in the Sky (a Tristan Strong Novel, Book 1):https://bookshop.org/a/19191/9781368042413and check out the rest of his books here:https://www.kwamembalia.com/Follow him on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/mbalia1/Register for the 2024 In-Person Conference Here: https://www.scbwi.org/events/scbwi-in-person-winter-conference-2024SCBWI on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scbwi/SCBWI on Twitter: https://twitter.com/scbwiBecome an SCBWI member today: https://www.scbwi.org/join-scbwi/Shop the SCBWI Bookshop.org page: https://bookshop.org/shop/SCBWISupport the show

For Victoria Selvaggio, books have always played an important role in her life. From an early age, she could easily be found reading in a corner with stacks of books or the opposite, crafting her own. Victoria was introduced to SCBWI (The Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators). Once again, she was hooked! Like all passions, Victoria immersed herself in all things publishing. She volunteered for her local SCBWI chapter and subsequently became a Regional Advisor, a role that also empowered her and provided a new path of becoming a literary agent. After interning for The Jennifer De Chiara Literary Agency, she joined the agency in 2013 as an associate agent and subsequently joined the Storm Literary Agency as agent, and then as owner in 2022. Her list features both debut and award-winning authors. She represents all age categories and all genres except Erotica Romance. Currently, she is closed to submissions but does plan to open for a limited time in 2024 (Victoria does accept and opens for submissions as a presenter at conferences). In our discussion, we talk about how she managed to combine her business acumen with her love for books and the publishing industry, and her advice for authors seeking to become traditionally published. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/new-books-network

For Victoria Selvaggio, books have always played an important role in her life. From an early age, she could easily be found reading in a corner with stacks of books or the opposite, crafting her own. Victoria was introduced to SCBWI (The Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators). Once again, she was hooked! Like all passions, Victoria immersed herself in all things publishing. She volunteered for her local SCBWI chapter and subsequently became a Regional Advisor, a role that also empowered her and provided a new path of becoming a literary agent. After interning for The Jennifer De Chiara Literary Agency, she joined the agency in 2013 as an associate agent and subsequently joined the Storm Literary Agency as agent, and then as owner in 2022. Her list features both debut and award-winning authors. She represents all age categories and all genres except Erotica Romance. Currently, she is closed to submissions but does plan to open for a limited time in 2024 (Victoria does accept and opens for submissions as a presenter at conferences). In our discussion, we talk about how she managed to combine her business acumen with her love for books and the publishing industry, and her advice for authors seeking to become traditionally published. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the SCBWI Podcast, we are joined by Eugene Yelchin!Eugene Yelchin is a graduate of the Academy of Theater Arts in St. Petersburg, Russia where he designed sets and costumes for stage productions until his immigration to the United States. In Los Angeles, CA, he earned his graduate degree from the USC School of Cinematic Arts after which, he went on to direct television commercials and illustrate advertising campaigns (designing the original polar bears for Coca Cola). His first character designs were for the animated movie Rango, which won the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature, as well as Annie Award for Character Design. While illustrating for editorial publications, creating character design for animation, and directing commercials, Yelchin were also painting. His paintings were shown in nine solo and dozens group exhibitions, and today, they are in important art collections in the US, Europe, Australia, and Japan.In 2006 at the Society of Children's Books Writers and Illustrators conference in New York, Yelchin received Tomie DePaola Illustration Award and began writing and illustrating books for children. Since then, Yelchin received numerous awards for his books. Among them are Newbery Honor (Breaking Stalin's Nose), National Book Award Finalist (The Assassination of Brangwain Spurge co-authored with M.T. Anderson), Sydney Taylor Award (The Genius Under the Table), National Jewish Book Award (The Rooster Prince of Breslov), Golden Kite Award (The Haunting of Falcon House), Crystal Kite Award (Won Ton: A Cat Tale Told in Haiku), and many more.Buy The Genius Under the Table: Growing Up Behind the Iron Curtain here:https://bookshop.org/a/19191/9781536215526and check out the rest of his books here:https://www.eugeneyelchin.com/booksRegister for the 2024 In-Person Conference Here: https://www.scbwi.org/events/scbwi-in-person-winter-conference-2024SCBWI on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scbwi/SCBWI on Twitter: https://twitter.com/scbwiBecome an SCBWI member today: https://www.scbwi.org/join-scbwi/Shop the SCBWI Bookshop.org page: https://bookshop.org/shop/SCBWISupport the show

Theo Baker talks with the chart-busting illustrator and book creator, Vashti Harrison, about how she anticipated success, and built her incredible career. Theo even got in a few questions about experimental film. For all the latest on Vashti, head over to her website www.vashtiharrison.com, and follow her on Twitter at @VashtiHarrison and Instagram at @vashtiharrison. For more info about the Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators, please visit SCBWI.org. Support the show

In this episode of the SCBWI Podcast, we are joined by Brandy Colbert!Brandy Colbert is the award-winning author of several books for children and teens, including Black Birds in the Sky: The Story and Legacy of the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre, which was the winner of the 2022 Boston Globe–Horn Book Award for Nonfiction and a finalist for the American Library Association's Excellence in Young Adult Nonfiction Award. Her other acclaimed books include Pointe, The Only Black Girls in Town, and Stonewall Book Award winner Little & Lion. Her writing has been published in the New York Times, and her short stories and essays have appeared in several critically acclaimed anthologies for young people. She is on faculty at Hamline University's MFA program in writing for children, and lives in Los Angeles.https://www.brandycolbert.com/Buy The Blackwoods here:https://bookshop.org/p/books/the-blackwoods-brandy-colbert/19646205?ean=9780063091597and check out the rest of her books here:https://bookshop.org/contributors/brandy-colbertRegister for the 2024 In-Person Conference Here: https://www.scbwi.org/events/scbwi-in-person-winter-conference-2024SCBWI on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scbwi/SCBWI on Twitter: https://twitter.com/scbwiBecome an SCBWI member today: https://www.scbwi.org/join-scbwi/Shop the SCBWI Bookshop.org page: https://bookshop.org/shop/SCBWISupport the show

In this episode of the SCBWI Podcast, we are joined by Lee Rowland!Lee Rowland served for over a decade as a lawyer for the American Civil Liberties Union, the Brennan Center for Justice, and the New York Civil Liberties Union.  She has extensive experience as a litigator, lobbyist, and public speaker. She has served as lead counsel in federal First Amendment cases involving public employee speech rights, the First Amendment rights of community advocates, government regulation of digital speech, and state secrecy surrounding the lethal injection process. She is also a prolific author of amicus briefs and blogs, where she provides insightful analyses of issues such as speech and privacy intersection, student and public employee speech, obscenity, and the Communications Decency Act. She also has represented several NCAC Partner Organizations.How to Get Involved:https://ncac.org/project/the-kids-right-to-read-project/kids-right-to-readFollow the NCAC here:https://www.instagram.com/ncacensorship/Register for the 2024 In-Person Conference Here: https://www.scbwi.org/events/scbwi-in-person-winter-conference-2024SCBWI on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scbwi/SCBWI on Twitter: https://twitter.com/scbwiBecome an SCBWI member today: https://www.scbwi.org/join-scbwi/Shop the SCBWI Bookshop.org page: https://bookshop.org/shop/SCBWISupport the show

In this episode of the SCBWI Podcast, we are joined by Bobbito Garcia!NYC native Bobbito García is a visionary creative who has put an indelible footprint on multiple urban movements.During the 1990s, the legendary air personality was one-half of the “Stretch and Bobbito” program on WKCR. The duo introduced the world to an unsigned Nas, Biggie, and Wu-Tang, as well as an unknown Jay-Z, Eminem, and the Fugees. The total record sales for all the artists that premiered on their platform exceed 300 million. In 1998, the Source Magazine voted them as “The Best Hip Hop Radio Show of All Time,“ and in 2023, they were inducted into the NAB Radio Hall of Fame.As the progenitor of sneaker journalism, García penned his landmark Source article “Confessions of a Sneaker Addict” in 1990, then in 2003 became the critically acclaimed author of Where'd You Get Those? NYC's Sneaker Culture: 1960-1987 (Testify Books). In 2005, ESPN's “It's The Shoes” series, hosted by Bobbito, became the first show on the subject in broadcasting history. A founding member of the Kennedy Center's Hip Hop Culture Council and a 2018 Wesleyan University “Distinguished Alumni Award” recipient,  "Kool Bob Love” currently produces his b-ball tournament Full Court 21™ in four continents, co-produces Stretch & Bobbito + The M19s Band music, is a DJ/Host on Apple Music Hits' “Stretch and Bobbito Radio,“ and is the proud author of his first children's book titled Aim High, Little Giant, Aim High!www.koolboblove.comFollow Bobbito on Instagram @koolboblove Buy Aim High, Little Giant, Aim High! here: https://bookshop.org/p/books/aim-high-little-giant-aim-high-bobbito-garcia/20576498?aid=79539&ean=9798888901533&listref=books-i-ve-authored-c15b87e5-577b-482c-8763-8ef0ed6c1ac7&and check out his bookshop:https://bookshop.org/shop/koolbobloveRegister for the 2024 In-Person Conference Here: https://www.scbwi.org/events/scbwi-in-person-winter-conference-2024SCBWI on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scbwi/SCBWI on Twitter: https://twitter.com/scbwiBecome an SCBWI member today: https://www.scbwi.org/join-scbwi/Shop the SCBWI Bookshop.org page: https://bookshop.org/shop/SCBWISupport the show

In this episode of the SCBWI Podcast, we are joined by Kate DiCamillo!Kate DiCamillo is the author of many books for young readers. Her books have been awarded the Newbery Medal (Flora & Ulysses in 2014 and The Tale of Despereaux in 2004); the Newbery Honor (Because of Winn-Dixie, 2001), the Boston Globe Horn Book Award (The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane, 2006), and the Theodor Geisel Medal and honor (Bink and Gollie, co-author Alison McGhee, 2011; Mercy Watson Goes for a Ride, 2007). She is a National Ambassador for Young People's Literature Emerita, appointed by the Library of Congress.A native of Florida, Kate now lives in Minneapolis, Minnesota.https://www.katedicamillo.com/Buy The Puppets of Spelhorst here: https://bookshop.org/p/books/the-puppets-of-spelhorst-kate-dicamillo/19660446?ean=9781536216752and check out the rest of her books here:https://bookshop.org/contributors/kate-dicamillo-c2ac26f8-7768-41eb-b8ca-92dbd9cbba12Register for the 2024 In-Person Conference Here: https://www.scbwi.org/events/scbwi-in-person-winter-conference-2024SCBWI on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scbwi/SCBWI on Twitter: https://twitter.com/scbwiBecome an SCBWI member today: https://www.scbwi.org/join-scbwi/Shop the SCBWI Bookshop.org page: https://bookshop.org/shop/SCBWISupport the show

In this episode of Playfully Faithful Parenting, host Joy Wendling welcomes back guest Valerie Ellis, a mom of two and children's book author. Valerie shares about her online resource, Our Everyday Parables, which helps parents engage with their children about faith and compassion through meaningful conversations and the use of children's books. Valerie also discusses the challenges of parenting preteens and how she learns from her boys, particularly in navigating anxiety. She highlights the importance of finding joy in everyday moments and offers a book recommendation to address anxiety in a playful way. Lastly, Valerie excitingly shares about her upcoming book, "Share the Joy: A Christmas Lift the Flap Book", which encourages families to celebrate the holiday season with fun and faith. Don't miss this insightful and inspiring conversation about raising faithful children. Valerie's Bio: Valerie Ellis is a children's book author, speaker, and founder of the multi-author online resource Our Everyday Parables, which offers book reviews and parenting resources for families pursuing faith and compassion. A certified teacher, Valerie is passionate about helping kids and parents connect with God and each other in the everyday moments. Her books—releasing October 2023 from Paraclete Press, February 2025 from Tyndale, and October 2025 from Waterbrook—are designed to serve families at the intersection of faith and fun. Valerie is a member of MOPS/MOMSnext, SCBWI, and the Texas Library Association. She is also a nonprofit consultant, trainer, and grant proposal writer in the Houston area, where she lives with her husband, Josh, and their two boys. For more information, visit OurEverydayParables.com for parenting and book resources, ValerieEllis.com for speaking events and classroom visits, and ShareTheJoyBook.com for free “share the joy” resources. Valerie would love to connect with you at @iamvalerieellis. Links from the episode: (This may contain some affiliate links, which means I receive a small commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase using these links. For more information, please see my disclosure policy.) valerieellis.com Share the Joy! A Christmas Lift-the-Flap Book Pre-order Share the Joy! Our Everyday Parables Blog Instagram: @iamvalerieellis Blog Instagram: @oureverydayparables Playfully Faithful Parenting Podcast is a ministry of CreatedtoPlay.com. For more resources, tips, devotions, and tools check us out online: https://createdtoplay.com . Freebies for you: Want to work with me? Sign up for a 15-minute free coaching call: https://createdtoplay.com/free-coaching Join my free 5-day Bible Play Challenge: https://createdtoplay.com/challenge Get 17 fun, free kid's blessings for meals: https://createdtoplay.com/kids-blessings Even though I'm an introvert, I'm social!  Let's connect! Instagram: https://instagram.com/createdtoplay Facebook: https://facebook.com/created2play Twitter: https://twitter.com/createdtoplay Pinterest: https://pinterest.com/createdtoplay Did you enjoy the show? Subscribe and leave me a 5-star review on Apple Music and make me giddy. Music by jorikbasov from Pixabay. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/joy-wendling/message

Grace and Alvina welcome special guest, author Debbi Michiko Florence and they discuss their experiences working in children's book publishing as Asian American women. See complete show notes at www.bookfriendsforever.com. Click here to become a Patreon member: https://www.patreon.com/Bookfriendsforever1. See info about Grace Lin's events for CHINESE MENU here: https://gracelin.com/news-events/

Hi Everyone, my guest is Jyn Hall, children's book author and fellow SCBWI member. I met Jyn at the SCBWI Springmingle and wanted to share her amazing story from actress, producer, and writer. Here is more about Jyn. Jyn Hall has performed in theatre and with local and international troupes all over the U.S. and Europe, as well as toured the Southeast with Atlanta's oldest professional theatre company - The Academy Theatre. Over the past couple years, Jyn has been casting, producing, and writing. She is also writing children's books. She is a 2022 PB Party Contest Finalist and a 50Precious Word Contest Winner. Jyn Hall Website Jyn Hall Twitter Jyn Hall Instagram Thanks for listening!

My special guest and I have a fun and exciting conversation about our love of writing children's books. Even though today's episode is audio only for the most part, I get so excited to show off a new toy I made, that I forget that I don't have my camera on, and turn it on for a brief second.so if you're listening on YouTube, please disregard my split second video shot. For those of you listening, I'll share the picture of the crocheted ice cream I talked about as part of the show notes blogpost on my site. TONYA DUNCAN ELLIS is author of the award-winning, 13-book, SOPHIE WASHINGTON children's chapter series and THEY BUILT ME FOR FREEDOM (HarperCollins, Balzer + Bray, 2024). She is a member of the Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI), the Authors Guild, and the Brown Bookshelf's Highlights Foundation-sponsored Amplify Black Stories storyteller cohort. Tonya has spoken and taught at writing conferences at the Highlights Foundation and for SCBWI in New York City and for SCBWI Houston and Austin, TX chapters. A former journalist and freelance magazine writer, she holds a BA degree in French from Centre College of Kentucky and an MBA degree from Washington University in St. Louis. Tonya is represented by Sara Megibow of kt Literary. She lives in Houston, Texas and is married with three children. There are 13 books in the SOPHIE WASHINGTON chapter series geared toward kids ages 8 to 12. African American preteen Sophie Washington and her friends deal with common tween issues like fighting off bullies, squabbling with siblings, managing social media and video games, getting schoolwork done, fitting in, and puppy love, with a Texas-twist. Sophie lives in the suburbs of Houston, Texas and sees alligators on neighborhood bike rides, goes muttin' bustin' at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, and experiences flooding and hurricanes, which makes for all kinds of exciting adventures. Books in the Sophie Washington series include Sophie Washington: Queen of the Bee, Sophie Washington: The Snitch, Sophie Washington: Things You Didn't Know About Sophie, Sophie Washington: The Gamer, Sophie Washington: Hurricane, Sophie Washington: Mission: Costa Rica, Sophie Washington: Secret Santa, Sophie Washington: Code One, Sophie Washington: Mismatch, Sophie Washington: My BFF, Sophie Washington: Class Retreat, Sophie Washington: Lemonade Day, and Sophie Washington: Treasure Beach.  Connect with Tonya at the following links: Website: www.tonyaduncanellis.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tonyaellisbooks/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tonyaellisbooks/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@tonyaellisbooks     Visit www.everyday-excellence.com and use promo code Inspirational Journeys to get 10% off any product on the site. Subscribe to the 540 Writers Community for free, if you need some writing accountability, and you want  to participate inwriting workshops. Visit: https://540writerscommunity.com/ to sign up for the newsletter and search for 540 writers community on Facebook. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/inspirational-journeys/message

Join us for a deep dive into query revisions with YA fantasy writer, Julia! Julia and Jessica have spent the last few months in revisions, taking a good query and transforming it into an amazing one. Today we share all the insights learned from this process, how to be resilient, receive feedback, and make your pitch pop. Julia's bio: I am a graduate student in mental health counseling with a tendency to scribble plot points in the margins of my school notes. I am a member of SCBWI, Manuscript Academy, and I live with my twin sister in Orlando, Florida. When I'm not writing, you can find me on local weekend adventures and adding to my growing wall of bookish fanart. Draft one (with Jessica's notes): https://docs.google.com/document/d/1q6SToxSTa4Cgr_talxIEdWdJ9Tx87B19/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=109573504283059747627&rtpof=true&sd=true Draft three (with Jessica's notes): https://docs.google.com/document/d/1-PL-la1mUNcZvs-JekTa6YY_JPcv2A2U/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=109573504283059747627&rtpof=true&sd=true

Looking for inspiration on how to encourage children to read and enjoy the process? Look no further! We had the pleasure of chatting with Tonya Duncan Ellis, the brilliant mind behind the award-winning 13-book Sophie Washington Children's Chapter series and They Built Me for Freedom. Tonya shared her journey to becoming a successful writer, the impact her books have had on kids, educators, and readers across the US, and her secrets for making reading exciting and engaging for young minds.Tonya also provided valuable insights on how to choose the right books and series that will keep kids captivated, and the benefits of introducing them to graphic novels as a stepping stone towards longer books. We even discussed fun activities like book clubs and movie nights related to their favorite stories, as well as the importance of letting children have a say in what they read. Listen in to learn how to make reading a delightful experience that opens up a world of possibilities for your child.But Tonya's wisdom doesn't end there – she also shared her daily writing routine, tips to overcome writer's block, and her approach to goal setting and intention setting to stay motivated. We explored her writing journey, the support she found within her community, and her latest novel, They Built Me for Freedom. Don't miss out on this insightful and heartwarming conversation with Tonya Duncan Ellis, and discover how the power of reading can truly transform lives.About Tonya: TONYA DUNCAN ELLIS is author of the award-winning, 13-book, SOPHIE WASHINGTON children's chapter series and THEY BUILT ME FOR FREEDOM (HarperCollins, Balzer + Bray, 2024). She is a member of the Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI), the Authors Guild, and the Brown Bookshelf's Highlights Foundation-sponsored Amplify Black Stories storyteller cohort. Tonya has spoken and taught at writing conferences at the Highlights Foundation and for SCBWI in New York City and for SCBWI Houston and Austin, TX chapters. A former journalist and freelance magazine writer, she holds a BA degree in French from Centre College of Kentucky and an MBA degree from Washington University in St. Louis. Tonya is represented by Sara Megibow of kt Literary. She lives in Houston, Texas and is married with three children.LINKS, RESOURCES & QUOTESTonya's Sophie Washington Series The Global Community for Children's Book Creators (SCBWI) The Creative Penn PodcastReggie and Delilah's Year of FallingSupport the showIf you feel inspired please consider sharing this episode with a friend, writing a 5⭐️ review or becoming a Raising Wild Hearts Member here!

Listen here to our interview with Karla Huebner (In Search of the Magic Theater, Regal House, June 2022). We discuss this novel's quick appearance (3 months to write) but long gestation period (8 years to publish), what it's like to work with a small press, her self-imposed production goals, and how her own life's journey often informs that of her characters. And stay tuned to the end to learn about her unique household pets. Karla Huebner has lived on a boat and worked in factories, offices, theater, publishing, oil refineries, private investigation, and adolescent drug rehab; she is now professor emerita of Art History at Wright State University in Dayton, Ohio. Over the years, her fiction has appeared in such places as the Northwest Review, Colorado State Review, Magic Realism, Fantasy Macabre, Weave, and Opossum. Her books include the novels In Search of the Magic Theater (Regal House, 2022)--a first-prize winner in Chanticleer's 2022 Mark Twain contest and currently a Reader's Choice finalist—and Too Early to Know Who's Winning (Black Rose, 2023), as well as the prize-winning study Magnetic Woman: Toyen and the Surrealist Erotic (University of Pittsburgh Press, 2020). Her collection Heartwood was a finalist for the 2020 Raz-Shumaker award. She is a member of AAUP, WFWA, and SCBWI, as well as several scholarly organizations. To learn more about Karla, click here.

Tonya Duncan Ellis is the author of the bestselling SOPHIE WASHINGTON children's chapter book series and THEY BUILT ME FOR FREEDOM. She enjoys inspiring other authors with mindset tips for author success. Tonya has spoken and taught at writing conferences at the Highlights Foundation and for SCBWI in New York City, Houston, and Austin, TX chapters. A former journalist and freelance magazine writer, she is a graduate of Centre College of Kentucky and holds an MBA degree from Washington University in St. Louis. Tonya loves to travel and has visited 49 American states, 20 countries, and three continents, but some of her best journeys have been between the pages of a novel. She could always be found with a book in her hand, and reading is still one of her favorite hobbies. When she's not reading or writing, Tonya likes to ride her bike, swim, and spend time with her husband and three children. She lives in Houston, TX. She is a member of the Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI), the Authors Guild, Black Creators in KidLit, and the Brown Bookshelf's Highlights Foundation-sponsored, Amplify Black Stories storyteller cohort. Married with three children, Tonya lives in Houston, Texas. Listen & Subscribe on: iTunes / Stitcher / Podbean / Overcast / Spotify Contact Info Website: www.tonyaduncanellis.com Book: Sophie Washington: Treasure Beach By Tonya Duncan Ellis Most Influential Person Her Mom Effect on Emotions It's been very beneficial to me, I do journaling every day. Being mindful and intentional in what I'm doing helps me stay focused because there's a lot of rejection in my business. So it just keeps me focused on my goals and moving in a positive direction. Thoughts on Breathing I don't do a lot of it. But I have taken Pilates and some yoga classes at times. And I find that they do a lot of breathing in the exercise. And it's like a release and helps relieve a lot of your stress and anxiety. And even when I do walking and movement I think it helps me overcome anxious feelings and be more positive. Suggested Resources Book: The Four Agreements: A Practical Guide to Personal Freedom (A Toltec Wisdom Book) Book: Sophie Washington: Treasure Beach By Tonya Duncan Ellis Bullying Story The second book in my series, is Sophie Washington, the Snitch. It's about children being bullied by a new girl at school who's taking their lunch money and shoving them around. And I think mindfulness may have been helpful for the bully herself. She recognized her history, it comes out later in the book that her parents have abandoned her and had some other personal issues. If she had been able to do some mindfulness work, that would help with her anger and bad feelings that led her to be unkind to the other kids. So Related Episodes Breath and Fire; Michelle Hillier Breathwork To Upscale Your Life; Samantha Skelly 2000 Books To Improve Your Life by Mani Vaya Special Offer Are you experiencing anxiety & stress? Peace is within your grasp. I'm Bruce Langford, a practicing coach, and hypnotist helping fast-track people just like you to shed their inner bully and move forward with confidence. Book a Free Coaching Session to get you on the road to a more satisfying life, feeling grounded and focused. Send me an email at bruce@mindfulnessmode.com with ‘Coaching Session' in the subject line. We'll set up a zoom call and talk about how you can move forward to a better life.

In this podcast, Tonya discusses the critical role that reading plays in a child's development. She explains the various benefits of reading to your child, including language, cognitive, and emotional development, as well as the opportunity for bonding. Tonya emphasizes that reading can be an easy and enjoyable activity to incorporate into your daily routine, regardless of your child's age. She also shares some tips for selecting books that your child will enjoy and engage with. If you're a parent or caregiver looking to support your child's growth and development, this podcast is for you. Biography Tonya Duncan Ellis is author of the bestselling Sophie Washington children's chapter book series and THEY BUILT ME FOR FREEDOM (Balzer + Bray an imprint of Harper Collins, 2024) She is a member of the Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI), the Authors Guild, Black Creators in KidLit, and the Brown Bookshelf's Highlights Foundation-sponsored, Amplify Black Stories storyteller cohort. In 2021, she won the Austin SCBWI Cynthia Leitich Smith Writing Mentor Award. She is a 2022 winner of SCBWI's Independently Published Book Launch Marketing Grant. Represented by Sara Megibow of KT Literary, Tonya holds an MBA degree from Washington University in St. Louis and a BA degree in French from Centre College of Kentucky. She lives in Houston, Texas and is married with three children. About Theresa Inman A wife and a mother to two children, Theresa Alexander Inman is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst and Infant Toddler Development Specialist. She was introduced to the field of behavior analysis in 2007 after working in many capacities in the juvenile justice system. Her goal is to improve the lives of children and families by helping them strategize child develop skills to prevent or reduce the effects of possible delays while having fun! Theresa is also an author, having published ⁠⁠“How Can I Help My Child Communicate?”⁠⁠ in 2022. Connect with Theresa today! Instagram | ⁠⁠Theresa Inman⁠⁠ LinkedIn | ⁠⁠Theresa Inman⁠⁠ BabyBoomer.org | ⁠⁠Theresa Inman⁠⁠ YouTube | ⁠⁠Parenting with Confidence⁠⁠ Tiktok | ⁠⁠Parenting Bytes⁠⁠ Spotify via Anchor.fm | ⁠⁠Parenting with Confidence ⁠⁠ About Parenting with Confidence Parenting with Confidence with Theresa Alexander Inman presents you with answers if you are a tired and frustrated parent with a child diagnosed with a developmental delay. We aim to lift you up from the pressure of doing it right and provide you with the resources to set you and your child up for success! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theresa-alexander-inman/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theresa-alexander-inman/support

Christy Wopat's award-winning memoir, Almost a Mother: Love, Loss, and Finding Your People When Your Baby Dies, was published by Orange Hat Publishing in 2018. A 4th-grade teacher, busy mama, and wife, Christy has always relied on writing as a way to cope. Recently she decided to use that strength as a way to help others, so they don't have to feel alone, especially in grief. Always Ours, an illustrated picture book about remembering our loved ones, was released in May of 2020 by Orange Hat. Her forthcoming book, After All, will be released in May of 2022. Christy also writes middle-grade books and is a member of SCBWI. She also chairs the Events Committee for the Wisconsin Writers Association. She lives with her husband and kids in Holmen, Wisconsin. Learn more about Christy: https://www.christywopat.com/Follow Us!The Butterfly PathInstagram: @The_ButterfyPathFacebook: The Butterfly Paththebutterflypath.orgThat Foreign FeelingInstagram: @thatforeignfeelingFacebook: That Foreign Feelingthatforeignfeeling.com/ Support the show

Julian R. Vaca is an award-winning writer, actor, and author. He was a staff writer on season three of PBS's Reconnecting Roots, a nationally broadcast show that drew in millions of viewers over its first two seasons. His writing has appeared in The Nerd Daily, Writer's Digest, and more. He is a PEN/Faulkner Writers in School author, a member of the SCBWI, and a Hey! Young Writer mentor. He is a first-generation Mexican American and a first-generation college graduate. The Memory Index (HarperCollins) is his debut. The sequel, The Recall Paradox, will be published in 2023. LISTEN TO THIS EPISODE IF: You love great fiction and enjoy writing You have ever struggled with your faith Anxiety has ever stopped you from moving forward You're interested learning more about mental health You love great writing and storytelling Follow Julian on Instagram: @julianrayvaca https://www.julianrayvaca.com

Megan Jasper currently works for Sub Pop Records as the label's CEO. She started working for Sub Pop in 1989 and eventually went back to the label in 1998. Before working at Sub Pop she was the Northwest Sales Representative (for five years) for Alternative Distribution Alliance, a music company that distributes mostly independent music to retailers in the US. Megan has also volunteered for numerous non-profits, served on the Board of Directors for SCBWI for four years, volunteered and served on the Board of Directors for The Service Board for ten years, the Board of Directors for the Vera Project for six years and served as a Seattle Music Commissioner for six years. She is currently on KEXP's Board of Directors. When she isn't working, volunteering, or listening to music, she's training for triathlons and hanging out with her family: Brian, Yogi, Bear, Claw, and Pickles. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.