The Children's Book Author Podcast

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, I chat with award-winning Australian middle-grade author Amelia Mellor , whose Grandest Bookshop in the World trilogy has captivated readers with its irresistible blend of real Melbourne history and magic. Amelia shares the fascinating journey from collecting dozens of rejections to becoming a full-time author, and why she believes the success of The Grandest Bookshop in the World wasn't just about the writing. It also had a clear hook, strong structure, and something publishers could immediately see how to sell. We dive into how Amelia turns meticulous research into magical stories, why history can be such powerful inspiration for children's fiction, what she's learned about writing authentically for young readers, and the enormous amount of thought that goes into making fantasy accessible rather than overwhelming. Amelia also takes us behind the scenes of working with a traditional publisher, collaborating with editors, planning an entire five-book series, revising drafts, marketing books, and somehow fitting actual writing around everything else an author has to do. And if school visits terrify you (like they do me!), stay until the end, because Amelia's wonderfully simple teacher-approved framework for structuring an author workshop might just change everything. A warm, funny and genuinely inspiring conversation about imagination, persistence, craft, research and what it really takes to build a career writing books for children. MORE ABOUT AMELIA: Amelia Mellor is the author of the award-winning Grandest Bookshop Trilogy , a fantasy series for children inspired by Melbourne history. She started writing when she was eight years old, wrote plays for her high school during VCE, and holds postgraduate degrees in creative writing and teaching (primary and secondary). When Amelia isn’t writing, surrounded by her collection of matryoshkas and tropical fish, she enjoys drawing, spotting wildlife and playing indie puzzle games. Her new five-part children’s fantasy series, Oceanforged , launched in August 2025. CONNECT WITH AMELIA: Amelia Mellor’s website Follow Amelia on Instagram Support the show Want to go deeper? Every week I write about the craft and psychology of writing children's books that transform young readers. It's free, it's called No More Boring Kids Books, and you can join us at nomoreboringkidsbooks.substack.com And if you're ready to write your own children's book, The Picture Book & Middle-Grade Writing Blueprint is my complete step-by-step course.

Send us Fan Mail I had the absolute pleasure of speaking to one of the most innovative storytellers of our time, Brian Selznick . Best known for The Invention of Hugo Cabret , Wonderstruck , The Marvels , and now Run Away With Me , Brian has spent his career redefining what stories can be. In this conversation, we explore why illustrations should never simply repeat the text, how every story teaches readers how to read it, and why the most important discoveries about a book often don't arrive until years into writing it. Brian also speaks openly about grief, trusting your subconscious, the themes that keep returning to your work, and why there is no single correct way to write a novel. Whether you write picture books, chapter books, middle grade, or young adult, this conversation is a masterclass in storytelling that will stay with you. In this episode, we discuss: How The Invention of Hugo Cabret evolved from a 98-page novella into a groundbreaking new reading experience. Why illustrations should do what words cannot. How every book teaches readers how to read it. Brian's unique creative process and why there is no single "right" way to write. Trusting your subconscious and giving stories time to reveal themselves. The recurring themes that become an author's creative DNA. Writing about grief, memory, love, and hope. Creating Run Away With Me and using Rome as both setting and character. Why authentic emotional experiences create unforgettable stories. The value of collaboration, experimentation, and following your curiosity as a writer. More About Brian Brian Selznick is an award-winning author and illustrator whose groundbreaking books have sold millions of copies and been translated into more than 35 languages. He is best known for the Caldecott Medal-winning The Invention of Hugo Cabret , which was adapted into Martin Scorsese's Oscar-winning film Hugo . His bestselling books also include Wonderstruck , The Marvels , Big Tree , Kaleidoscope , and his latest young adult novel, Run Away With Me . In addition to his own books, Brian illustrated the 20th Anniversary U.S. editions of the Harry Potter series and has collaborated with Steven Spielberg, Martin Scorsese, and other celebrated filmmakers throughout his career. Brian lives between Brooklyn, New York, and La Jolla, California, with his husband, Dr. David Serlin, and continues to create some of the most original and emotionally resonant stories in children's and young adult literature. Website: https://brianselznick.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebrianselznick Support the show Want to go deeper? Every week I write about the craft and psychology of writing children's books that transform young readers. It's free, it's called No More Boring Kids Books, and you can join us at nomoreboringkidsbooks.substack.com And if you're ready to write your own children's book, The Picture Book & Middle-Grade Writing Blueprint is my complete step-by-step course.

Send us Fan Mail From bookstore shelf-stacker to traditionally published middle grade author, Meredith Davis takes us right inside how a book really makes it into the world. You'll learn what the three rounds of editorial actually look like, what a developmental editor sees that you can't, how illustration changed the way she writes her scenes, and how she and her publisher divide the marketing between them. Plus one of the most inventive book launch campaigns I've heard of, involving wax seals and a secret agency! MORE ABOUT MEREDITH: Meredith Davis is the author of THE MINOR MIRACLE and THE MINOR RESCUE, books one and two in THE AMAZING ADVENTURES OF NOAH MINOR series (Waterbrook, 2024/25) and co-author of HER OWN TWO FEET: A RWANDAN GIRL’S BRAVE FIGHT TO WALK (Scholastic, 2019). She once worked at an independent children’s bookstore, started the Austin Chapter of the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators, and earned her Masters of Fine Arts in Writing for Children and Young Adults at Vermont College of Fine Arts. Her superpowers include reading, grandmothering, wrangling her doodle and finding ways to fit more books in her Austin, Texas home. IG: meredithdavisauthor FB: Meredith Davis Substack: Author With a Kidlit Crush KidLit Studio is my monthly membership for children's book writers. Live group coaching, masterclasses, and six interactive workspaces that walk you through your own book, from first idea to launch day. US$29 a month, cancel anytime. https://www.elenapaige.com/kidlit-studio/ Support the show Want to go deeper? Every week I write about the craft and psychology of writing children's books that transform young readers. It's free, it's called No More Boring Kids Books, and you can join us at nomoreboringkidsbooks.substack.com And if you're ready to write your own children's book, The Picture Book & Middle-Grade Writing Blueprint is my complete step-by-step course.

Send us Fan Mail What makes a child who “hates reading” suddenly devour books? In this episode, I’m joined by hugely successful children’s author Dustin Brady , best known for his blockbuster Trapped in a Video Game series, which has sold more than 3 million copies worldwide . Dustin writes books for kids who think they hate reading — and somehow, miraculously, he turns them into readers. We talk about how he comes up with ideas that are both wildly fun and highly commercial, what keeps kids turning pages, how he writes fast-paced books for reluctant readers, and what he’s learned from school visits, parents, teachers, and years of connecting with real kids. We also dive into Dustin’s publishing journey — from self-publishing to being picked up by a traditional publisher — plus what he’s discovered about writing books that feel approachable, addictive, and impossible for kids to put down. If you write for children, want to better understand reluctant readers, or dream of creating stories kids genuinely beg to keep reading, this episode is packed with insight. IN THIS EPISODE, WE TALK ABOUT: Writing for kids who think they hate reading What makes a children’s book truly page-turning How Dustin comes up with high-concept commercial ideas The importance of writing the book you would have loved as a child Keeping books tight, fast, and approachable for younger readers Cliffhangers, pacing, and chapter length School visits and what Dustin has learned from meeting real readers Dustin’s journey from self-publishing to traditional publishing How Trapped in a Video Game grew into a multi-million-copy success What to do when a book just isn’t working How to tell the difference between laziness and a story problem Why fun matters so much in children’s fiction MORE ABOUT DUSTIN: Dustin Brady is the bestselling author of books for kids who think they hate reading. His hugely popular Trapped in a Video Game series has sold more than 3 million copies worldwide , and he’s also the author of Escape from a Video Game , Adventures in a Video Game , Leila and Nugget Mystery Series , and The World’s Worst Time Machine . Known for his fast-paced, funny, highly approachable books, Dustin has built a loyal following among reluctant readers, teachers, and parents alike. He writes stories that help kids discover that reading can actually be fun — and often addictive in the very best way. CONNECT WITH DUSTIN: Website: https://dustinbradybooks.com/ Instagram Andrews McMeel Kids: HERE Books: Trapped in a Video Game , Escape from a Video Game , Adventures in a Video Game , Leila and Nugget Mystery Series , The World’s Worst Time Machine Support the show Want to go deeper? Every week I write about the craft and psychology of writing children's books that transform young readers. It's free, it's called No More Boring Kids Books, and you can join us at nomoreboringkidsbooks.substack.com And if you're ready to write your own children's book, The Picture Book & Middle-Grade Writing Blueprint is my complete step-by-step course.

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, I'm joined by Alysson Bourque from Expound Publicity —and she's making history as the first guest ever to return to the Children's Book Author Podcast! We dive deep into holiday marketing strategies and modern publicity tactics that actually work: Why October is the best time to get prepared for Christmas book sales The genius of unexpected collaborations (think dirty soda carts and boutique book nooks!) How to use AI without losing your authentic voice The difference between earned and paid media—and why paid is now useful for authors Getting featured in satellite media tours and holiday gift guides When to invest in a PR firm vs. DIY marketing Thinking of your book as a product (the mindset shift that changes everything) Scaling beyond books: developing your IP into plush toys, musicals, and more Whether you're gearing up for your first holiday selling season or looking to take your author business to the next level, this episode is packed with actionable strategies you can start implementing today. 🎁 Special Podcast Listener Offer I've just launched The Picture Book and Middle Grade Writing Blueprint —my most comprehensive course yet, covering everything from picture book mastery to middle grade novels, story idea generation, rhetorical devices, self-editing, and market research. PLUS monthly group coaching sessions with me! Use code PODCAST100 for $100 off (brings it down from $297 to just $197). Valid through Christmas Day! 👉 Visit elenapaige.com to enroll 🧡 Learn more about Alysson and Expound at: expoundpublicity.com MORE ABOUT ALYSSON & EXPOUND PUBLICITY: Alysson Bourque is a bestselling, award-winning children's book author who began her career as a teacher after graduating from University of Louisiana Lafayette with a degree in Elementary Education. She earned a Juris Doctor law degree from the Southern University Law Center in 2007. Alysson is the author of seven books in The Alley Cat Series , including her upcoming Christmas release. Her work has been featured in major media outlets, and she's currently developing her IP for potential adaptation, including discussions with Apple about turning her series into a cartoon. Using the latest industry trends, Expound's mission is to build a platform for an author to succeed and maintain their success as a writer. Created by a team of multi-award winning, bestselling authors and seasoned marketers, Expound Publicity is a full-service book marketing agency specializing in custom integrated campaigns tailored to each author's unique needs and goals. Support the show Want to go deeper? Every week I write about the craft and psychology of writing children's books that transform young readers. It's free, it's called No More Boring Kids Books, and you can join us at nomoreboringkidsbooks.substack.com And if you're ready to write your own children's book, The Picture Book & Middle-Grade Writing Blueprint is my complete step-by-step course.

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, I’m joined by two powerhouse women— Alysson Bourque and Lori Orlinsky —award-winning children's book authors and the co-founders of Expound Publicity , a boutique book marketing agency built by authors, for authors. We talk about: The biggest marketing mistakes new authors make How to get media attention (without being famous!) Why writing a great book isn’t enough —and what to do about it The story behind Expound and how it’s helping authors not just launch… but grow Whether you're launching your first picture book or looking to breathe new life into your backlist, this episode is full of practical takeaways and author-to-author wisdom. 🎁 Free Resource Mentioned in the Episode Writing a children’s book? Don’t miss my Scene-Building Blueprint —a free, powerful tool to help you write scenes kids can’t stop reading . It includes a plug-and-play worksheet I use myself. 👉 GET IT HERE or visit elenapaige.com 🧡 Learn more about Alysson, Lori, and Expound at: expoundpublicity.com MORE ABOUT ALY, LORI, & EXPOUND PUBLICITY: Alysson Bourque is a bestselling, award-winning children’s book author who began her career as a teacher after graduating from University of Louisiana Lafayette with a degree in Elementary Education. She earned a Juris Doctor law degree from the Southern University Law Center in 2007. Alysson is the author of seven books in The Alycat Series . Lori Orlinsky is a bestselling, award-winning children’s book author and seasoned marketer, most recently serving as the marketing director at PBS Chicago. She is the mother of three little ladies who are small but mighty. At 5’1, she wishes her children’s picture book Being Small (Isn’t So Bad After All), was around when she was growing up. Using the latest industry trends, Expound's mission is to build a platform for an author to succeed and maintain their success as a writer. Created by a team of multi-award winning, bestselling authors, and seasoned marketers, Expound Publicity is a full-service book marketing agency specializing in custom integrated campaigns. Support the show Want to go deeper? Every week I write about the craft and psychology of writing children's books that transform young readers. It's free, it's called No More Boring Kids Books, and you can join us at nomoreboringkidsbooks.substack.com And if you're ready to write your own children's book, The Picture Book & Middle-Grade Writing Blueprint is my complete step-by-step course.

Send us Fan Mail From Actor to Graphic Novel writer, Elisa Eliot brings her years of study and knowledge in the performing arts, and from screenwriting and producing to children's books. You'll learn about creating the most unique yet truthful characters and bringing them to life. Plus so much more! MORE ABOUT ELISA: Elisa Eliot began performing with the Houston Grand Opera at 12, starred in plays throughout school and won her state’s science fair before studying Drama, Literature and Playwriting at Yale, where she starred in 40 more productions. She won the lead in the Off-Broadway production of Bells of the Mill on a summer break before moving to Los Angeles, where she quickly racked up roles in TV and film. She wrote and produced the feature, A Genie’s Tail , which debuted on Showtime and is available on most streaming platforms. On May 14 2024, Eliot released her debut graphic novel, ZAK VS. ZOMBIES through Orange Hat Publishing about a group of misfit kids who band together to save the world from the technology-obsessed talkers. As an original cast member of We’re Alive, in addition to writing and producing their upcoming spin-off, Scout’s Honor, Eliot is already an experienced zombie survivor. Eliot remains an in-demand actress, voiceover artist and creator/writer/producer while simultaneously raising twins and Jack Russell terriers and developing new animated and written content in her spare time. WEBSITES BOOK: https://www.zakvs.com FILM & TV CONTENT: https://www.triplejackproductions.com , https://www.triplejackkids.com SOCIALS INSTA: @elisaeliot @zakvszombies FB: https://www.facebook.com/elisa.eliot.yudofsky.nord , https://www.facebook.com/ZAKVSBooks/ Support the show Want to go deeper? Every week I write about the craft and psychology of writing children's books that transform young readers. It's free, it's called No More Boring Kids Books, and you can join us at nomoreboringkidsbooks.substack.com And if you're ready to write your own children's book, The Picture Book & Middle-Grade Writing Blueprint is my complete step-by-step course.

Send us Fan Mail Are you stuck writing a particular book? Feeling frustrated with your productivity? Sick of trying strategies that never work? Here's how to overcome all these obstacles and more: discover and work with your unique strengths! Jump into today's interview with Becca Syme, success coach (primarily utilizing the Gallup Strengthsfinder®) where we talk all about transformation and the power of an individualised approach. This is such a golden episode you will listen to over and over again! Also go do the Gallup Strengths Test https://www.gallup.com/cliftonstrengths/ and discover your top five strengths, so you can start being the best creative YOU! MORE ABOUT BECCA Becca Syme holds a master’s degree in transformational leadership and has been a success coach (primarily utilizing the Gallup Strengthsfinder®) for over fifteen years. She’s coached over 5,000 individual authors and creatives through her Write Better-Faster and Strengths for Writers classes & coaching cohorts: six- and seven-figure authors, major award winners, midlisters, and new authors alike. She is the author of the Dear Writer books and host of the Quitcast for Writers Podcast/You Tube channel, created around the content of Becca Syme’s “What to Quit, What to Keep, and What to Question” model of coaching writers. Find out more at https://betterfasteracademy.com/ SEE THE VIDEOS ABOUT YOUR STRENGTHS http://betterfasteracademy.com/next-steps-videos Support the show Want to go deeper? Every week I write about the craft and psychology of writing children's books that transform young readers. It's free, it's called No More Boring Kids Books, and you can join us at nomoreboringkidsbooks.substack.com And if you're ready to write your own children's book, The Picture Book & Middle-Grade Writing Blueprint is my complete step-by-step course.

Send us Fan Mail Yes it's been a while since a new episode has dropped, but after much anticipation, here is the latest episode launching off the podcast in 2025! If you have ever wanted to find out how to hit your local community and sell your own books, this is the episode for you! We talk all about sourcing your own distribution, approaching local indie bookstores and of course, school visits! Enjoy today's episode with the incredibly dynamic Kristy Nita Brown! MORE ABOUT KRISTY: Kristy Nita Brown is a dynamic junior fiction author, educator, and creative entrepreneur who independently publishes books. Her debut book, Looking for Lily, was shortlisted for the 2023 West Australian Young Readers’ Book Award and placed second in the 2022 Children and Young Adult Aspiring Author Competition. Her follow-up book, Mavey and Beth’s Double Act: Where’s My Whistle?, secured fourth place in the 2023 edition of the same competition. Kristy is a seasoned TAFE lecturer and teaching artist who runs creative writing and filmmaking workshops across community libraries and schools. In 2024, Kristy is funded by the Department of Local Government, Sport, and Cultural Industries to lead the Book Builder's Challenge, an innovative, creative writing program that empowers students to write, illustrate, edit, market and publish books. Kristy is also a participant in the Path to Published mentorship program with best-selling author Sasha Wasley, the SEW Arts teaching artists training program, and the Creative Schools program developed by Form. FIND HER AT: Website: https://www.kristynitabrown.com.au/ https://www.instagram.com/kristynitabrownbooks https://www.facebook.com/kristynitabrownbooks Support the show Want to go deeper? Every week I write about the craft and psychology of writing children's books that transform young readers. It's free, it's called No More Boring Kids Books, and you can join us at nomoreboringkidsbooks.substack.com And if you're ready to write your own children's book, The Picture Book & Middle-Grade Writing Blueprint is my complete step-by-step course.

Send us Fan Mail I'm so excited to be sharing my interview with Lisa Glanz. If you're someone who loves drawing and uses procreate, you're sure to know who she is! But even if you're an author today we dive deep into reverse engineering your creative career to build a thriving business, how to draw cute characters for your kids books, and so many other things about the creative journey! Enjoy today's interview. AND. If you heard my introduction and want to sign up for the massive bonus and be one of my first ever students of The Children's Book Author Blueprint, check out ElenaPaige.com/learn MORE ABOUT LISA Lisa Glanz is a full time illustrator with a devoted eagerness in helping others achieve their creative goals. In addition to creating professional digital tools for artists, she loves teaching and sharing knowledge she's gained both as a business owner and artist. Lisa knows how difficult the creative journey can be - she'd love to make yours easier by teaching you what she's learned along the way. Her courses and products are designed to help you gain more knowledge, build confidence and produce work you're proud of. https://www.lisaglanz.com/ You tube: https://www.youtube.com/c/Lisaglanz/featured IG: https://www.instagram.com/glanzgraphics/ Support the show Want to go deeper? Every week I write about the craft and psychology of writing children's books that transform young readers. It's free, it's called No More Boring Kids Books, and you can join us at nomoreboringkidsbooks.substack.com And if you're ready to write your own children's book, The Picture Book & Middle-Grade Writing Blueprint is my complete step-by-step course.

Send us Fan Mail People will ALWAYS judge your book by its cover: it's the harsh reality! So make sure you get your cover design right. Today we discuss what makes a great cover and how you can make sure your cover helps to sell your book, with Cover Designer, Holly Dunn. Enjoy the episode! Elena MORE ABOUT HOLLY DUNN: Holly is a book cover designer based in New Zealand. She specialises in working with indie authors to make their stories shine through custom illustration and hand lettering. Before switching to full-time design, she worked at a company helping indie authors market their books. Now, along with her design services, she creates resources to help indie authors on their self-publishing journey. LINKS: hollydunndesign.com Instagram YouTube Support the show Want to go deeper? Every week I write about the craft and psychology of writing children's books that transform young readers. It's free, it's called No More Boring Kids Books, and you can join us at nomoreboringkidsbooks.substack.com And if you're ready to write your own children's book, The Picture Book & Middle-Grade Writing Blueprint is my complete step-by-step course.

Send us Fan Mail Have you ever wanted to write middle-grade fiction? Or perhaps you already do, but want to make it so good that it wins every award it's ever entered into? Then this is the interview for you! Marc has won over 22 awards and has written and self-published eight books and many have been translated into 10 languages. You'll discover how to work with the best editors, writing in series, and which book awards are the best for exposure and feedback. So settle in and find out all about how to write an award winning middle grade book. Enjoy today's episode. Elena MORE ABOUT MARC REMUS: Marc Remus is a Neo Pop-Art painter, author, and illustrator. Born in Germany, educated in the United States, he graduated in art and illustration from Art Center College of Design in Pasadena, CA in the 90s. ​Having a passion for languages, he travelled to seventy countries, lived a few years in Honduras and Japan, and visited over a thousand cities, of which he has painted over two hundred. His art work has been featured in over one hundred magazine/newspaper articles in Germany, USA, and Mexico (TV documentaries available above.) ​During his studies in California, he took his first children’s book illustration class. His teacher inspired him to start writing and not just illustrating. The result was a picture book called Painting Brian , which led to the Magora series. He began taking classes in children's literature in 2003 and worked with some incredible editors. Over a period of twenty years, he developed the magical world Magora based on places he had visited, people he had met, and things he had learned through his studies in acting, cultural Anthropology, and linguistics. In 2016 the first book of the Magora series was published on Amazon. It became a big success and ranked for five days as No.1 of all children's book on Amazon, with over 35.000 downloads. Since then, the series has won 20 awards. In 2019, Remus started a new project. He wrote the children's book "The Chocolate Clouds." Since it is an illustrated book with 150 drawings, three years passed before it was finally published in 2021. In just seven months, it won six literary awards among them the first literary award in the UK (The Wishing Shelf Book Award.) Following this success, many translators applied to create a version in their language. As a result, many foreign language editions evolved: Danish, Dutch, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Norwegian, Polish, Portuguese, and Swedish. Some of these editions are already available on Amazon. Find him at https://www.marcremus.com/author https://www.instagram.com/marcremus/ https://www.facebook.com/MarcRemusBooks/ And find the best Awards to enter at https://www.allianceindependentauthors.org/ask-alli-self-publishing-advice/ ​ Support the show Want to go deeper? Every week I write about the craft and psychology of writing children's books that transform young readers. It's free, it's called No More Boring Kids Books, and you can join us at nomoreboringkidsbooks.substack.com And if you're ready to write your own children's book, The Picture Book & Middle-Grade Writing Blueprint is my complete step-by-step course.

Send us Fan Mail How much did I learn about writing funny from Rob Kutner in today's episode of The Chidren's Book Author Podcast? A huge amount and you can too, by tuning in to the wonderful conversation. Rob shares his journey writing his first spooky-comedy graphic novel for kids, and gives timeless advice on how you can be funnier in your writing too. MORE ABOUT ROB: Rob Kutner has won 5 Emmys, a Peabody, a TCA, and a Grammy writing for such shows as TBS’ “CONAN” and “The Daily Show with Jon Stewart, and co-created the fact-based comedy TV show “ Gander .” Rob’s other TV writing includes “Teen Titans Go!” “Ben10” “Angry Birds: Summer Madness” and HBO’s “Dennis Miller Live.” He has also written material for the Oscars, Emmys, Writers’ Guild Awards, MTV Movie Awards, Guys’ Choice Awards, and two White House Correspondents’ Dinners. He has developed kids’ and adult animated series for Warner Brothers and SyFy. Rob is the author of the satirical end-of-times bestseller Apocalypse How: Turn the End Times into the Best of Times! and the Amazon Kindle e-bestseller/Audible audiobook The Future According to Me . He is also the creator of the graphic novel “ Shrinkage ” for Farrago Comics. He has published humor and feature pieces for the New Yorker, New York Times , Esquire , Huffington Post , McSweeney’s , and the Weekly Forward . Rob’s new horror-comedy kids’ anthology “Snot Goblins and Other Tasteless Tales ” (First Second) is now on sale, as is “Look Out For The Little Guy ,” the “in-universe” memoir of Scott “Ant-Man” Lang he ghostwrote. This makes Rob technically part of the MCU . Here's the official link for Snot Goblins: https://us.macmillan.com/books/9781250780805/snot-goblins-and-other-tasteletale And here's a fun video trailer of the book: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HhSAjep4UPg Support the show Want to go deeper? Every week I write about the craft and psychology of writing children's books that transform young readers. It's free, it's called No More Boring Kids Books, and you can join us at nomoreboringkidsbooks.substack.com And if you're ready to write your own children's book, The Picture Book & Middle-Grade Writing Blueprint is my complete step-by-step course.

Send us Fan Mail Essie Bell is a multi-talented picture book author and publisher having written, published and marketed six picure books. In today's interview we talk about how to write a great rhyming book and why they're still relevant to the market, school visits, markets and more! It's a wonderful time to be a Children's Book Author! MORE ABOUT ESSIE: Essie Bell is a wife and mother of three cute kids. She loves staying at home and playing with her kids every day and enjoys writing in the evenings. Her favorite animals are elephants, flamingos and penguins. She currently lives in Utah, but has lived in Georgia, Iowa, and Idaho as well. Essie is also a Certified Recreational Therapist which means she loves helping people while still having fun. Website: www.essiebellbooks.com Instagram: instagram.com/essiebell.author Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Essie-Bell/author/B097XP57YQ? Support the show Want to go deeper? Every week I write about the craft and psychology of writing children's books that transform young readers. It's free, it's called No More Boring Kids Books, and you can join us at nomoreboringkidsbooks.substack.com And if you're ready to write your own children's book, The Picture Book & Middle-Grade Writing Blueprint is my complete step-by-step course.

Send us Fan Mail Wow what encouragement I received in todays interview with Sean E. Avery. I've always wanted to secretly learn how to draw and Sean is an art teacher, and illustrator of his own authored books. He made me believe perhaps I can illustrate my own books one day, and you'll believe so too once you listen to this episode. Will it take time and consistent action? Absolutely! But it can happen when you practise aggressive patience. Enjoy the show! MORE ABOUT SEAN E. AVERY: Sean E Avery is a teacher, writer-illustrator, sculptor and designer born in South Africa; living in Perth, Western Australia. Locally, he’s best known as the writer-illustrator of best-selling children’s picture book, All Monkeys Love Bananas , published by Fremantle Press . His last picture book, Happy as a Hog Out of Mud , won the 2022 WAYRBA Picture Book of the Year Award and his latest picture book, Frank’s Red Hat , is shortlisted for the 2023 Indie Book of the Year Award and already a hit with kids in Australia, Korea, France and Denmark. He also has a new graphic novel series for younger readers out this year called Friendly Bee and Friends . Internationally, he’s best known as a sculptor who uses CDs and DVDs to create breathtaking works of art that reside in galleries and private collections all around the world. He is curious, enthusiastic and ready to work hard for the things he believes in. Find him at https://seaneavery.com Support the show Want to go deeper? Every week I write about the craft and psychology of writing children's books that transform young readers. It's free, it's called No More Boring Kids Books, and you can join us at nomoreboringkidsbooks.substack.com And if you're ready to write your own children's book, The Picture Book & Middle-Grade Writing Blueprint is my complete step-by-step course.

Send us Fan Mail Today I'm joined by podcaster, author, mother, writing festival enthusiast and gosh so may more titles that still don't sum up DANI VEE!! A fun talk where we cover writing, getting published, writing festivals, creativity, and of course the magic of making connections and how important they are in the writing world! Enjoy today's show. MORE ABOUT DANI VEE: DANI VEE is an author, podcaster and works in publicity and acquisitions at Larrikin House. Her picture books include ‘My EXTRAordinary Mum', and her new book ‘My EPIC Dad! Takes Us Camping,’ the first book in the EPIC Dad series. Dani Vee hosts the popular literary podcast Words and Nerds. With up to 50,000 listeners every month and more than 500 episodes, the podcast has become a significant part of the Australian literary community. She has interviewed Matthew Reilly, Trent Dalton, Jackie French, Tara Moss, Andy Griffiths and many more. As well as working in Publicity at Larrikin House, she assesses manuscripts and works in acquisitions with the publisher. You’ll also find her facilitating panels or running workshops at literary festivals such as BAD Sydney Crime Writers Festival, The Sutherland Shire Writers' Festival, Somerset Storyfest, Kids and YA Festival and Mansfield Readers and Writers Festival and in 2023 at the Sydney Writers’ Festival. Dani has been on judging panels for picture book awards, the Ned Kelly Awards and Ngaio Marsh Awards. Find her at https://www.danivee.com.au/ Support the show Want to go deeper? Every week I write about the craft and psychology of writing children's books that transform young readers. It's free, it's called No More Boring Kids Books, and you can join us at nomoreboringkidsbooks.substack.com And if you're ready to write your own children's book, The Picture Book & Middle-Grade Writing Blueprint is my complete step-by-step course.

Send us Fan Mail Self-publishing extraordinaire Karen Inglis joins me on today's episode to talk all about her wonderful books, her incredible author and publishing journey, and how she sold over 500,000 copies of The Secret Lake! We talk writing, publishing, marketing, foreign rights and through this interview you will understand, it's never too late to market your book! MORE ABOUT KAREN: Karen Inglis is an international bestselling children’s author of picture books, illustrated chapter books and middle grade novels. Her time travel adventure The Secret Lake for ages 8-11has sold over half a million print copies in English and is in translation in 11 languages. Her other titles have all sold in their thousands. Return to the Secret Lake , Karen’s long-awaited sequel to her bestseller , was recently shortlisted in the children’s categories for both the Wishing Shelf Book Awards and the UK Selfies Awards. Karen has written and presented extensively about children’s self-publishing and children’s book marketing. She has received traditional publishing offers over the years but has preferred to retain creative control over her work. · kareninglisauthor.com — for readers · @kareninglis — twitter · facebook.com/kareninglisauthor — Facebook · @kareninglis_childrensbooks — Instagram · selfpublishingadventures.com — for writers Support the show Want to go deeper? Every week I write about the craft and psychology of writing children's books that transform young readers. It's free, it's called No More Boring Kids Books, and you can join us at nomoreboringkidsbooks.substack.com And if you're ready to write your own children's book, The Picture Book & Middle-Grade Writing Blueprint is my complete step-by-step course.

Send us Fan Mail Today I interview Children's Book Author Adrian Beck and we talk in depth about school visits, yes again, and this time I must admit I felt like maybe I really could do school visits... and boy do I laugh through this entire interview. I was tempted to name this episode How to Be the Funnest Author, because Adrian is fun, fun, fun!!! And if you, like me, want to be a fun type kids author, this is the interview for you. But then we get serious and Adrian gives the most encouraging advice about tenacity, grit, and never giving up!! I want to put every sentence he said on a giant poster so the next time I get discouraged I remember to never give up! You'll love learning and laughing along with Adrian Beck today, so after you listen to the podcast go and check out all the amazing books he's written! Elena MORE ABOUT ADRIAN BECK: Adrian Beck writes, funny, action-packed stories for kids. He is the author of the Derek Dool series, the Champion Charlies series, plus Alien Zoo 1 and 2 and he is the co-author of the Little Legends series with Nicole Hayes plus the Kick it to Nick series with AFL hall-of-famer Shane Crawford. As well as being an author, Adrian is a TV producer and a lover of very bad ‘dad jokes’. Together with Sally Rippin, Adrian edited the Total Quack Up! & Total Quack Up Again! books which contain an awesome line-up of writers who each provided hilarious short stories to raise money for Dymocks Children’s Charities! Adrian draws on his showbiz roots to create engaging, interactive school presentations and is passionate about fostering a love of reading amongst the next generation. Adrian was born in Hobart, Tasmania but is not related to Princess Mary. (As far as he knows). He is passionate about raising childhood literacy levels across the country and is a fierce supporter of the endangered teacher-librarian species. As a TV producer and author, Adrian uses both skill sets to deliver entertaining schools visits with lively, humorous and interactive sessions on writing, working in television and sport. If you would like to enquire about Adrian as a speaker, please head to the Booked Out website . Or check him out at his website at AdrianBeck.com.au Support the show Want to go deeper? Every week I write about the craft and psychology of writing children's books that transform young readers. It's free, it's called No More Boring Kids Books, and you can join us at nomoreboringkidsbooks.substack.com And if you're ready to write your own children's book, The Picture Book & Middle-Grade Writing Blueprint is my complete step-by-step course.

Send us Fan Mail NBA player C.J. Watson & author released his fourth book for kids this March 2023, called "CJ and His Magic Socks". The first book "CJ's Big Dream" received great reviews and was an Amazon best seller. CJ has two other children's books "CJ's Big Project" & "CJ's Big Moment". The new book is available now on Amazon & Kindle, links below. Today I chat with C.J about his basketball career, his four children's books and how to beat the odds and every obstacle to follow your dreams, and then inspire others to do the same. C.J was a lot of fun to talk to and watch out because I might just surprise him with a visit to Las Vegas for a joint school visit! MORE ABOUT C.J WATSON: C.J. Watson's basketball career has allowed him to play for some of the best teams in NBA history. While his professional basketball experience is impressive, his skills go far beyond the basketball court. Philanthropy has been at the center of Watson's career since the start of his scholarship fund. The fund honors his late grandmother, Mary L. Watson, and helps support students studying education. In his hometown of Las Vegas, Watson also started the Quiet Storm Foundation in order to foster learning opportunities that include social skills development and health and fitness activities to help the youth grow and achieve their goals in his community. In addition to his non-profits, Watson has developed a children's book series named CJ's Big Dream . With this series, he hopes to inspire young kids to chase their dreams and work hard for what they want. For more information on "CJ and His Magic Socks" or to purchase visit http://cjpens.com Connect with CJ: Instagram:@ quietstorm_32 Twitter: @quietstorm_32 Facebook: @officialcjwatson Support the show Want to go deeper? Every week I write about the craft and psychology of writing children's books that transform young readers. It's free, it's called No More Boring Kids Books, and you can join us at nomoreboringkidsbooks.substack.com And if you're ready to write your own children's book, The Picture Book & Middle-Grade Writing Blueprint is my complete step-by-step course.

Send us Fan Mail This episode of The Children's Book Author Podcast is number 25, and is such a special one. I am joined by Jen Storer, Australian Children’s Author and Chief Inspirationalist at girlandduck.com , where she mentors, nurtures and guides creative souls from all over the world. And in today's interview she shares so much of her wisdom and inspiration with us writers and creatives. It's a not to be missed episode. Enjoy the show! Elena More About Jen: Jen Storer is a commercially successful and critically acclaimed Australian Children’s Author. As Director and Chief Inspirationalist at girlandduck.com , she is also a big-hearted businesswoman who mentors, nurtures and guides creative souls from all over the world. Jen LOVES what she does, believes in working to her strengths and is always looking for new and inspired ways to help others. She lives with her beloved in a divinely pretty Central Victorian town. Read more at Girl & Duck.com Support the show Want to go deeper? Every week I write about the craft and psychology of writing children's books that transform young readers. It's free, it's called No More Boring Kids Books, and you can join us at nomoreboringkidsbooks.substack.com And if you're ready to write your own children's book, The Picture Book & Middle-Grade Writing Blueprint is my complete step-by-step course.