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‘The Key Tools for Writers are Ears and a Heart.’ A Chat with Legendary Author Avi
In his long and prolific career, Avi has had a huge impact on modern children’s literature. Author of over 80 books for children and young adults and recipient of every conceivable publishing honor, this legend sits down with CBI for an exclusive interview.
Why Rejection Cannot Defeat You
Rejection is, for most writers, a given in the profession we’ve chosen. But hearing “NO” doesn’t have to break you. Here’s how to thrive through rejection.
Genre Spotlight: Reinventing Folk & Fairy Tales
For today’s readers, authors are often reinventing fairy and folktales to inspire new stories, without being too tied to the originals’ details. Learn how you can breathe new life into old stories.
Twisting Your Plot and Delighting Your Readers
In kidlit, a well-placed plot twist can take a mundane manuscript and transform it into something truly memorable. Here’s how to create one of your own.
Kidlit Social #83: Picture Books – A Look Into the Author/Illustrator Relationship
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.
Kidlit Social #81: Meet the Publisher, with Robert Agis of Starry Forest Books
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.
Kidlit Social #80: How to Write an Exceptional Book Description with Michelle Schusterman
On this episode, Laura welcomes author, writing instructor and ghost writer Michelle Schusterman. 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.
Kidlit Social #79: Chris Barton on Supporting Teachers & Free Expression in the Classroom
On this episode, Laura welcomes Chris Barton, author of 23 books including the New York Times Bestseller Shark vs. Train. Chris discusses a vitally important topic: How authors can actively support libraries, teachers and free expression in the classroom.
He also offers 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 with Carol Gordon Ekster
On this episode, Laura welcomes 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 #75: 2nd Anniversary Edition – Laura Answers Your Writing Questions!
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.
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