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What if your storytelling dreams could transform into an award-winning career? Join us on Craft Chat Chronicles as we sit down with the remarkable Connie Schofield Morrison, who shares her journey from managing her illustrator husband Frank Morrison to carving out her own path as a celebrated author. Connie's candid conversation covers everything from the importance of setting professional boundaries to finding the right literary agent and ensuring your work meets industry standards. Get ready for an eye-opening discussion about the hurdles and triumphs aspiring writers face in the publishing world.

This episode takes a heartfelt look into Connie's passion for children's literature and her dedication to giving young readers a voice. Discover the essential elements that make a compelling children's picture book, including relatable characters and meaningful narratives. Connie also discusses her motivation to address contemporary cultural issues. Gain insight into her creative process for her current and upcoming books, like the "Spooky Spirit" series and "Big Boy Joy," designed to be inclusive of all nationalities. Learn why it's crucial to respect criticism and develop resilience to succeed in the literary industry.

Connie offers practical advice to overcome fear and procrastination, emphasizing the importance of active writing and learning from feedback. Get tips on finding writing conferences, networking effectively, and building support for new projects through local libraries and bookstores. Connie also sheds light on the collaborative process between authors and illustrators and the significant role of creative control. Don't miss her valuable insight and words of encouragement. Subscribe, comment, and share to stay inspired!

Keywords:
podcast, Bestselling Author Tips, Picture books, publishing, Crafting Bestsellers, Publishing Industry Insights, Writing Strategies, Author Success Stories, Writing Career, Writing Craft, Narrative Development, Networking Strategies, Creative Writing Techniques, Author Interviews, Book Promotion, Literary Agents, Real Life Experiences, Writing Tips, Award Winning Author, Connie Schofield Morrison

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Ever wondered how a ghost story can turn rejections into a celebrated book launch? Join us on Craft Chat Chronicles as we sit down with award-winning YA and children's picture book author, Sarah Glenn Marsh. Hear about Sarah's inspiring journey from a book-loving teenager encouraged by a high school teacher to an accomplished author with Penguin's support. She shares how a suggestion from her partner led to the creation of her successful ghost story, "The Girls Are Never Gone," and provides invaluable insights into the power of perseverance and connecting with young readers.

Have you ever thought about what goes on behind the scenes of traditional book publishing? Sarah takes us inside the collaborative process, sharing heartwarming moments like Penguin's surprise champagne brunch for her book "Reign of the Fallen." We also get an inside look at her latest middle-grade project, "How to Spot a Fairy: A Field Guide to Sprites, Spriggans, and More," inspired by Irish folklore. From spooky illustrations to blending mythology with art, Sarah's world-building tips and advice on creating a compelling magic system will leave you inspired.

Creating memorable villains, crafting captivating first pages, and developing inclusive middle-grade characters—Sarah covers it all. She delves into her research methods and the importance of sensitivity reading for accurate representation. Learn from her experiences on how to avoid the common pitfalls in storytelling and what current trends are shaping children's and YA literature today. Plus, get a sneak peek into her transition to adult fiction and her new spicy fantasy romance, "We Could Be Antiheroes," all while celebrating the supportive relationship with her agent. Don't miss this episode packed with practical advice, heartwarming stories, and insider tips from one of the most creative minds in the industry!

Keywords:
podcast, Bestselling Author Tips, Picture books, Young Adult Fiction, Crafting Bestsellers, Publishing Industry Insights, Writing Strategies, Author Success Stories, Writing Career, Writing Craft, Narrative Development, Book Marketing Strategies, Creative Writing Techniques, NY Times Bestselling Process, Author Interviews, Book Promotion, Literary Agents, Real Life Experiences, Publishing, Writing Tips, Award Winning Author, Sarah Glenn Marsh

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What happens when two writers set aside their egos and embrace collaboration? Join us on Craft Chat Chronicles as we recount our chaotic yet rewarding journey co-writing the fantasy novel "Crimson Rain." From our humble beginnings as online acquaintances to tackling the complexities of merging distinct writing styles, we share candid stories about our initial struggles and the communication breakthroughs that led us to a more sophisticated and cohesive writing process.

Dive into our strategies for maintaining a unified narrative while allowing individual voices to shine. Learn how we divided writing responsibilities, managed multiple character perspectives, and overcame the challenges of harmonizing diverse writing styles. Whether it's blending vivid settings with suspenseful horror or navigating the delicate balance of giving and receiving feedback, we provide a transparent look at the intricacies of collaborative writing.

Finally, explore the dynamics of a successful writing partnership and the invaluable role of community and accountability. Hear about our editing adventures, early editorial feedback, and the lessons learned along the way. Gain insights into marketing strategies, building a readership, and get updates on our current and upcoming projects. Don’t miss this engaging discussion filled with practical tips, personal anecdotes, and the shared wisdom of two writers committed to the art of collaboration.

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Pull back the curtain on the fascinating world of media with Emmy award-winning television producer Paula Rizzo. Ever wondered how to land your dream media gig or nail that nerve-wracking TV interview? Paula lays out a roadmap with insider tips on mastering media appearances and becoming a media-savvy author. From her early days as a journalism student to producing award-winning content at Fox News Channel, Paula's journey is filled with passion for storytelling and practical advice for anyone looking to boost their media presence.

Discover the pivotal moment that led Paula from the fast-paced world of TV production to becoming a sought-after media strategist. She shares how winning an Emmy sparked a desire to help authors and experts shine in media appearances. Learn how to tackle common misconceptions about media engagements and the secrets behind answering questions like a pro, even in the most unpredictable live interviews. With Paula's expert guidance, you'll gain the confidence and skills needed to face media challenges head-on.

For authors dreaming of a powerful brand and compelling media strategy, Paula brings invaluable insights to the table. Explore social media tactics that align with your audience, and harness the potential of platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and LinkedIn. As you prepare for your media opportunities, Paula’s innovative strategies, such as her accordion method for crafting memorable soundbites, will elevate your on-camera presence. Whether transitioning from nonfiction to fiction writing or learning the intricacies of public speaking, this episode is your ultimate guide to navigating the complex media landscape with flair.

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Ever wondered what it takes to leave a tech career for the unpredictable world of full-time writing? Join us as we sit down with debut author KM Fajardo who shares her inspiring journey from programming to penning her own cyberpunk retelling of "The Great Gatsby." KM opens up about the joys and hurdles of transitioning genres from literary fiction to science fiction and fantasy. You'll hear firsthand about the winding road to securing representation and the invaluable role of perseverance in the cutthroat world of publishing.

Discover the nuts and bolts of writing that engages from page one. We explore how KM crafts characters that stick with readers long after the book is closed, and how she pulls readers into her narrative universe right from the start. Learn why flawed characters are your story's backbone and how to keep your plot from sagging in the middle. KM also delves into the art of writing thematically rich stories with endings that leave a lasting impact, using her own novel, "Local Heavens," as a fascinating case study.

KM doesn't just stop at storytelling; she shares a glimpse into her experience as a YouTuber and offers practical tips for writers wanting to broaden their reach. We talk about the importance of authenticity online, overcoming debut nerves and imposter syndrome, and the delight of finding camaraderie among fellow writers. Whether you’re penning your first manuscript or looking to refine your craft, this conversation is packed with insights to motivate and guide you on your writing journey.

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Ever wondered why young adult fiction captures the hearts of readers across all ages? Discover the key elements that make YA fiction so compelling on this episode of Craft Chat Chronicles. From the intense emotional rollercoasters of first love and heartbreak to the urgency found in fast-paced storytelling, we’ll break down what makes these narratives irresistible. With excerpts from Emily Hainsworth's "Through to You" and Paula Stokes’s "Liars Inc.," we illustrate the raw, engaging elements that define the genre and discuss the strategic role of teenage protagonists and their often-absent parents.

Buckle up for a discussion on the high-stakes world of teenage decision-making and the nuanced portrayal of sexuality in YA literature. We dive into an adrenaline-pumping scene involving a protagonist's daring escape from FBI agents, exploring how believability and dramatic tension keep readers hooked. Then, we tackle sensitive topics like teenage fatherhood and first romantic encounters with examples from Angie Thomas's "Concrete Rose" and Nicola Yoon's "Everything, Everything." Learn how these narratives handle complex issues responsibly without losing their entertainment value.

Stay ahead of the curve with our insights into the latest trends in YA fiction. Discover the rising popularity of strong female protagonists in fantastical settings, the enduring appeal of dystopian narratives, and the increasing demand for diversity and representation. Whether it's the suspense of YA mysteries or the thrill of YA horror, particularly from Black authors, find out what’s captivating readers today. Join us for a comprehensive dive into the vibrant and ever-evolving world of young adult fiction!

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Master the craft of grabbing your readers' attention from the very first page with our special guest, Jaymarie! We promise you'll gain invaluable insights as we dissect the riveting openings of novels like "The Hunger Games" by Suzanne Collins and "Legendborn" by Tracy Deon. Explore how these authors hook readers by weaving immediate action, familial bonds, and evocative settings into their narratives, making it impossible to put the book down.

Join us as we delve into the powerful opening of Angie Thomas' "The Hate U Give," where a strong first sentence and a relatable protagonist, Star, draw readers into a world grappling with identity, societal pressure, and race. We'll also discuss the poignant, heart-wrenching scene in Delilah Owens' "Where the Crawdads Sing," where young Kaya’s world is shattered, leaving readers eager to uncover the mysteries of her life. These analyses will highlight the importance of emotional depth and vivid descriptions in making a story compelling.

Finally, we turn our focus to the magic of setting with an analysis of a mysterious circus that appears without warning, captivating readers with its enigmatic atmosphere. Learn how to craft a unique hook, maintain a consistent narrative voice, and polish your first drafts to perfection. Don't miss out on these expert tips and insights that will transform your writing and make your first page unforgettable!

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What if you could transform stress-filled corporate days into successful storytelling? Our guest, Jill Tu, did just that. We talk about her inspiring journey from high-demand corporate jobs to becoming the debut author of "The Dividing Sky," a cozy dystopian romance set in a hyper-capitalist future. Jill's story begins with a pivotal moment of inspiration after watching the movie Divergent, reigniting her passion for storytelling and setting her on a relentless writing journey even while caring for a newborn.

Uncover the creative process behind "The Dividing Sky" and the personal inspirations that shaped its unique premise. Jill contrasts its rapid creation with her first book, which took years to write. She also shares her experience across genres, including her upcoming middle-grade contemporary novel, "Kaya Morgan's Crowning Achievement," which celebrates Black joy and resilience. This episode shines a light on the importance of representation in sci-fi and fantasy spaces and the dynamic world of querying and securing a literary agent.

From winning a contest that provided crucial editorial guidance to the excitement of receiving an offer from her dream agent, Jill’s narrative is filled with perseverance and triumph. We'll walk you through the steps leading up to her book launch, the significance of community recognition, and the excitement of planning for launch events. Jill shares practical tips for crafting compelling characters, managing expectations, and creating resonant endings that leave a lasting impact on readers. Join us for an episode brimming with insights and inspiration for aspiring writers.

Keywords:
afronauts, podcast, debut author, Bestselling Author Tips, Historical Fiction, Crafting Bestsellers, Publishing Industry Insights, Writing Strategies, Author Success Stories, Writing Career Transition, Writing Craft, Narrative Development, Book Marketing Strategies, Creative Writing Techniques, NY Times Bestselling Process, Author Interviews, Book Promotion, Literary Agents, Real Life Experiences, Publishing, Writing Tips

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