Season 2 is almost here! We’re kicking it off with our exclusive Author Summit Masterclass, only available through YouTube tickets. Don’t miss insider tips, expert advice, and strategies to grow your writing career. Secure your ticket today!
Get your tickets today: https://thestorytellersshelfpodcast.com/storytellers-shelf-summit/
#kidlit #bookreviews #amwriting #education #libraries #teacehers #authortube #booktok #masterclass
Join The Storyteller’s Shelf Summit from January 12–17, a virtual week of expert-led masterclasses for children’s literature creators. Learn from professionals on writing, illustrating, and publishing kids’ books, and gain insights to grow your career.
This year’s summit includes a literary pitch event with Syrone Harvey of the Belcastro Agency! Authors can pitch directly to an agent, but to participate, you must purchase both the summit and pitch event tickets. The summit sessions are pre-recorded on YouTube, and tickets are required to watch.
🎟️ Secure your tickets today to access the summit and your chance to pitch to a top agent!
https://thestorytellersshelfpodcast.com/storytellers-shelf-summit/
#KidLitSummit #ChildrensBookWriters #BookIllustrators #WritingMasterclass #PublishingTips #LiteraryPitchEvent #SyroneHarvey #KidsBookAuthors #VirtualEvent #StorytellingTips
“When you know exactly who you’re writing for your story finds its focus and that’s when it truly connects.”-Harshita Jerath
Writing for the Right Audience with Harshita Jerath Picture Books Early Readers and Cultural Storytelling
Subscribe to The Storyteller’s Shelf Podcast for weekly conversations with children’s authors publishing professionals and educators sharing real world insight into kidlit craft and careers
How do you know who you are writing for and how do you make sure your story truly connects with young readers
In this episode of The Storyteller’s Shelf Podcast we are joined by children’s author Harshita Jerath author of The Leaping Laddoo Cooler Than Lemonade and A Sweet Diwali Harshita shares practical experience based insight into writing for the right audience breaking down the differences between picture books and early readers and explaining how age empathy and cultural authenticity shape strong children’s stories
Harshita discusses her journey into children’s publishing and offers guidance on writing age appropriate stories leaving space for illustrators understanding early reader structure and representing culture in ways that feel natural meaningful and respectful
This episode is ideal for aspiring children’s authors picture book writers early reader writers educators and anyone interested in kidlit craft and storytelling
If you enjoyed this episode please Like Share and Subscribe to The Storyteller’s Shelf Podcast Your engagement helps us grow the channel bring on more guests and continue creating educational content for the kidlit community
The Storytellers Summit is a full week of master classes with publishing industry experts ending with a literary pitch event with a literary agent This summit directly supports the ongoing production of The Storyteller’s Shelf Podcast
Get your summit tickets and full details here
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The Storyteller’s Shelf Podcast reaches a dedicated audience of children’s authors educators librarians and publishing professionals If your brand organization or service aligns with books literacy education publishing or creative tools we would love to connect
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In this episode of The Storyteller’s Shelf Podcast, we’re joined by Anne Broyles, award-winning author of children’s picture books and middle grade titles, including I’m Gonna Paint: Ralph Fasanella, Artist of the People, Priscilla and the Hollyhocks, Shy Mama’s Halloween, Arturo and the Bienvenido Feast, and Arturo and the Navidad Birds.
Anne Broyles is of the Cherokee Nation and brings decades of experience in children’s publishing.
Anne shares practical insight into writing children’s books, building a long-term author career, and staying motivated in traditional publishing. We discuss crafting picture books that connect with readers, working with editors, and approaching author marketing with clarity and intention.
This episode is ideal for children’s authors, picture book writers, educators, and aspiring storytellers looking for experience-based guidance from a seasoned professional.
Resources mentioned in this episode:
• Are you an author in need of help with your writing? Check out our Scrivener link to save on writing software we use and recommend
• Explore The Storytellers Summit and get your tickets for a full week of publishing masterclasses and a literary pitch event
• Support the podcast: Buy us a Ko-fi to help support the show as we grow
#ChildrensBookAuthor #PictureBookAuthor #KidLitPodcast #WritingMarketingMotivation #AuthorInterview #WritingChildrenBooks #TraditionalPublishing #StorytellerShelfPodcast #AspiringAuthors #ChildrensPublishing #AuthorMotivation
#amwriting #librarians #teachers #educators
If you’ve ever struggled to finish a children’s book or felt stuck querying agents, this episode is for you.On @thestorytellersshelfpodcast, we talk with award-winning author, book coach, and editor Ellen Potter about finishing drafts, building character-driven stories, and navigating today’s children’s publishing landscape.“If you stay away from your story too long, the door to that world starts to close.”— Ellen PotterIn this episode, we cover:How accountability partners help writers finish booksWhy 10 focused minutes a day worksPicture books vs chapter books vs middle gradeWriting stronger queries and avoiding common agent pitfallsPractical ways authors market books through school visits and pre-orders🎧 Subscribe for weekly conversations on kidlit, publishing, and writing craft — and share this episode with a writer who needs it.☕ Support the podcastKo-fi → https://ko-fi.com/storytellersshelfpodcastGoFundMe → https://www.gofundme.com/f/storytellersshelf🍵 Support our sponsorHarney & Sons Fine Teas (listener discount):👉 https://harney.com/discount/STORYTELLER
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#ChildrensBookWriting #Kidlit #WritingCommunity #QueryingAgents #AuthorPodcast
In this episode of @TheStorytellersShelfPodcast , we sit down with Karl Buechner, Jeremy Mueller, and Keith Ward, the authors of the middle grade fantasy novel Unraveling and the Council of Crows.The authors share how collaboration honesty and lived experience shaped a powerful fantasy world where animals inherit culture magic and history after humanity disappears. Drawing from music, education, parenting, and storytelling, they explore why middle grade readers are capable of engaging with complex ideas and meaningful themes.“Middle grade readers can handle more than we give them credit for. They are smart and they are ready for deeper stories.”Jeremy MuellerThroughout the conversation, the authors discuss writing collaboratively world-building with intention and using storytelling to explore compassion forgiveness and responsibility.Topics discussed in this episode include:Middle grade fantasy world-buildingWriting collaboratively as multiple authorsForgiveness and compassion as central themesEnvironmental and animal centered storytellingHow music education and life experience influence narrative voiceStoryteller’s Shelf Summit January 12 to 17! Get your tickets today!The Storyteller’s Shelf Summit takes place January 12 through January 17 and is fully online. This is a full week of pre recorded masterclasses for writers illustrators educators and publishing professionals followed by a Literary Pitch Event. Visit our website for more information.If you enjoy the podcast and want to support our workSubscribe Like and ShareBuy us a Ko fi
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Your support helps us continue creating free educational content for the kidlit and publishing community.#support #animalstories #quest #middlegradefantasy #middlegradebooks #kidlit #FantasyAuthors #worldbuilding #authorinterview #writingcommunity #booktok #supportourchannel #education #musician #authortube #fantasyauthors #MiddleGradeAuthors #FantasyAuthorInterview #writingtips #kidlitcommunity #authortok #writing #fantasyworlds #environmentalstorytelling #kidlitpodcast #EarthCrisis #PathOfResistance #HardcorePunk #HardcoreCommunity #MusiciansTurnedAuthors #PunkRockCulture #MetalAndBooks
“A single book can spark confidence, belonging, and a lifelong love of reading.” — Griffin Granberry, Madison Reading Project
This week on THE STORYTELLER’S SHELF PODCAST, we talk with Griffin Granberry and Josh Bulavko of Madison Reading Project about how joyful, high-quality books reach children through book buses, free book fairs, early-literacy programs, and strong partnerships with schools and families. Their stories from the field reveal exactly how the right book at the right time can change a child’s life.
If you want to deepen your craft and strengthen your path in kidlit, join us at the Storyteller’s Shelf Summit, January 12–17 ; A full week of masterclasses, craft intensives, and a live pitch event with Syrone Harvey of Belcastro Agency.
Get your tickets and full details at our website:
https://thestorytellersshelfpodcast.com/storytellers-shelf-summit/
Enjoy a cup of Harney & Sons Fine Teas, blended with care by a family passionate about exceptional tea.
Learn more: https://Harney.com/discount/STORYTELLER
Scrivener for Writers:
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Support the Podcast:
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#childrensbooks #kidlit #literacy #bookaccess #madisonreadingproject #storytellersshelf #writersummit #belcastroagency #harneyandsons #scrivenerforwriters
#booktok #authortok #writingcommunity #writers #summit #cslewis #JKRowling #JRRTolkein #DollyParton #Imaginationlibrary #madisonwisconsin
“If you don’t understand your publishing contract, you don’t own your career.” — Melissa Nasson
If you’ve ever stared at a book contract and thought, “I’ll just sign it,” this episode is the moment that changes everything.On THE STORYTELLER’S SHELF PODCAST, literary lawyer and former literary agent MELISSA NASSON pulls back the curtain on the clauses, rights, royalties, and hidden traps that shape your entire publishing future.
Whether you are writing picture books, middle grade, YA, or self-publishing your own titles, this episode gives you the clarity and confidence you need before putting pen to paper.Melissa breaks down:
✔️ How royalties really work (and how “net receipts” can destroy your income)
✔️ Predatory hybrid/self-publishing red flags
✔️ Out-of-print and reversion clauses that protect your long-term rights
✔️ Subsidiary rights authors MUST guard (audio, translation, podcast, film/TV, merchandising)
✔️ Contract negotiation strategies that actually work
✔️ How agents and literary lawyers tag-team contract reviews
✔️ Illustrator contracts for self-publishers that protect your IP, characters & sequels
✔️ The clauses authors skim that carry the biggest financial consequencesThis is the contract masterclass every creator wishes they heard before querying, before hiring an illustrator, and definitely before signing a publishing deal.
🎟️ THE STORYTELLER’S SHELF SUMMIT — JAN 12–17A full week of masterclass-level training for authors, illustrators, self-publishers, and publishing professionals — ending with our special live Pitch Event featuring literary agent Syrone Harvey of Belcastro Agency.PLUS: This Summit kicks off our brand-new season of monthly pitch events.
👉 Get your Summit Ticket https://thestorytellersshelfpodcast.com/storytellers-shelf-summit/
☕ Support the Podcast
Ko-fi → https://ko-fi.com/storytellersshelfpodcast
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#KidLit #KidLitAuthor #PictureBookAuthor #MiddleGradeBooks #YACommunity #PublishingContracts #BookDeal #SelfPublishingTips #HybridPublishing #IndieAuthors #AuthorRights #AmWriting #WritersOfInstagram #AuthorSummit #WritersConference #PitchEvent #WritingMasterclass #StorytellersShelfPodcast #LiteraryLaw #CreativeEntrepreneur
“Growing up in Nashville taught me that storytelling lives in every corner—music, movies, books—and that creative spark never leaves you.” — Adam Rosenbaum
If you’ve ever dreamed of writing middle grade stories but felt your background didn’t “fit,” this episode will inspire you to leap. On THE STORYTELLER’S SHELF PODCAST, we sit down with Nashville native Adam Rosenbaum, the screenwriter-turned-author behind the debut middle grade novel The Ghost Rules—a funny, heartfelt, and slightly spooky adventure that blends humor with healing, grief, and emotional depth.
Adam shares how his screenwriting experience sharpened his storytelling voice, the real journey to finding a literary agent, and why publishing needs more emotionally honest, diverse books for boys. He opens up about balancing writing with parenting four children, building character-driven stories, and how a lighthearted ghost idea became a meaningful exploration of loss for young readers.
As a storyteller shaped by Music City’s creative heartbeat, Adam reflects on how Nashville’s culture—where music, books, film, and artistry intersect—influences his work. This ties beautifully to Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, a Nashville-rooted program fostering young readers and a lifelong love of stories.
This episode is packed with insights for teachers, librarians, and writers alike:
• Social-emotional learning (SEL)
• Grief support and emotional processing
• Classroom read-alouds or literature circles
• Reluctant readers seeking humor and heart
• Boys needing representation in emotionally honest stories
• School libraries looking to expand middle grade selections
🎧 Listen in to meet a Nashville storyteller whose work deserves a spot on every classroom and library shelf—and gain inspiration for your own creative journey.
📣 Cyber Monday Alert: Today is the last day to grab your tickets to The Storytellers Summit at 40% off! Use code CYBERMONDAY at checkout to save. The Summit runs January 12–17 and includes workshops, craft guidance, and opportunities to pitch to literary professionals. Don’t wait—secure your discounted tickets now: https://thestorytellersshelfpodcast.com/storytellers-shelf-summit/
If you enjoyed this episode, consider buying us a coffee on Ko-Fi to support the show and help us keep bringing you amazing guests.
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#NashvilleWriters #MusicCityStories #ImaginationLibrary #DollyParton #WritingTips #Storytelling #WritingCommunity #KidLitWriting #AuthorAdvice #PublishingTips #WritersOfInstagram#TeachersOfInstagram #LibrariansOfInstagram #ClassroomBooks #ReadAloudBooks #SELBooks #BoysBooks #DiverseBooks #MiddleGradeBooks #KidLit #MiddleGradeAuthor #WritingForKids #KidsBookAuthor#CyberMondayDeals #BookLovers #ReadersOfInstagram #SupportAuthors#StorytellersSummit #AuthorEvents #WritingSummit #PodcastForWriters
What if joyful, musical storytelling could rebuild kids’ love of reading even in a world dominated by screens.
In this episode of The Storyteller’s Shelf Podcast we sit down with @ericlitwinbooks , the original author of Pete the Cat and a #1 New York Times bestselling creator whose innovative use of music, rhythm, and storytelling has transformed early literacy for millions of children
"If we want kids to love reading we must out-fun the screens and we can" — Eric Litwin
About Eric Litwin:
Eric Litwin is the author of the original Pete the Cat series including:
I Love My White Shoes, Rocking in My School Shoes, Four Groovy Buttons, and Saves Christmas as well as Groovy Joe, The Nuts, The Power of Joyful Reading, and The Poop SongHis books have sold over 17 million copies worldwide and are celebrated for their engaging use of music, rhyme, and interactive storytelling which support early reading skills.
What You Will Learn in This Episode:
How music, rhyme, rhythm, and call-and-response support the five pillars of readingHow interactive storytelling builds vocabulary, fluency, and comprehension.
Why the attention economy challenges children’s reading habits.
The decade of school performances that shaped Pete the Cat before publicationHow authors can build their own audience and community even when traditionally published.
Writing stories that serve both specific literacy needs and general audiencesHow joy and verbal interaction can compete with digital distractions.
A preview of Eric’s upcoming mindfulness-through-music program for kids, teens, and adults.
Whether you are creating children’s books or supporting young readers in the classroom this episode provides actionable guidance and inspiration.
Explore Eric’s Work and More ResourcesVisit Eric Litwin’s resources and upcoming projects to explore his books, music, literacy tools, and check out our upcoming Storyteller’s Shelf Winter SummitPodcast and Support LinksHANG OUT WITH US AND
GET FREEBIES…and pitch to agents in our events!
https://thestorytellersshelfpodcast.com/
☕ Support the podcast:
KOFI → https://ko-fi.com/storytellersshelfpodcast
Go to our Linktree to get your tickets, for our upcoming summit and save 40% with code CYBERMONDAY:https://linktr.ee/thestorytellersshelfpodcast
GOFUNDME → https://www.gofundme.com/f/storytellersshelf
✏️ Give this Scrivener a try → https://www.literatureandlatte.com/scrivener-affiliate.html/storyteller?fpr=storyteller
#teacher #educator #librarylife #library #books #petethecat #mowillems #authortube #authortok #childrensbooks #EarlyLiteracy #WritingForKids #KidLit #KidLitAuthors #Illustrators #Librarians #Teachers #AttentionEconomy #Storytelling #ReadingFoundations #publishingindustry
In this episode, we sit down with YA author and Indie Author Book Expo founder JENN THOMPSON to explore what it truly takes to thrive as a self-published author and create YA stories that genuinely connect with readers.
Jenn opens up about why she founded a nonprofit dedicated to indie authors, how confidence in marketing grows through consistent effort, and why investing in quality editing is essential for building trust with your audience.
We also dive into YA craft through a meaningful lens: how drawing from real-life experiences helps young readers feel understood and supported. Jenn reflects on the moments from her youth that shaped her perspective as a writer and how authenticity continues to guide her storytelling today.
🎧 Listen now and subscribe for more conversations about kidlit, YA, and the world behind children’s publishing.
☕ Support the podcast:
KOFI → https://ko-fi.com/storytellersshelfpodcast
GOFUNDME → https://www.gofundme.com/f/storytellersshelf
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#Indieauthor #nonprofit #YAAuthor #Education #BarnesandNoble #publisher #Publishing #writingcommunity #booktok #authortube #writers #educational
“I started self-published, got an agent, and then chose to go back to indie publishing because I wanted freedom and momentum.” — Dana Goldstein
Middle grade author Dana Goldstein shares the honest story behind one of the biggest decisions of her writing career: leaving traditional publishing and returning to self-publishing. In this episode of @TheStorytellersShelfPodcast , Dana reveals what really happens behind the scenes, how long traditional timelines can take, and why choosing independence gave her back her creative energy.
Dana also dives into how she writes STEM-infused middle grade that hooks young readers in a world full of screens.
She explains how she creates fast-paced, emotionally rich stories for high-level readers, especially boys, and how she uses “sneaky learning” to make science feel fun and accessible.
Her insights offer real direction for kidlit writers, teachers, librarians, and anyone crafting books for middle grade readers.
If you’re deciding between traditional publishing and self-publishing — or simply looking for inspiration to keep writing — Dana’s journey is packed with encouragement, clarity, and practical wisdom.
☕ Buy us a Ko-fi
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#middlegradebooks #kidlit #selfpublishing #indieauthor #traditionalpublishing #authortube #writersofyoutube #stembooks #middlegradeauthor #publishingadvice #bookcommunity #authorinterview #writingtips #kidlitcommunity #booktok #authortube #authortok #education
Want to break into children's publishing but don't know where to start?
Poetry magazines might be your secret weapon! In this episode of The Storyteller's Shelf Podcast, acclaimed poet and author Heidi Bee Roemer reveals why starting with poetry magazines is one of the smartest moves for aspiring children's writers—and how she built a career with nearly 500 published poems in magazines like Highlights, Babybug, Ladybug, Spider, and Cricket.
"Editors are always looking for a fresh voice, a new approach to something, whether it's through a humorous twist, a clever way to express a concept."-Heidi Bee Roemer.
Heidi breaks down what makes children's writing truly stand out: fresh voices, clever concepts, strong language, playful rhythm, and engaging themes.
She also shares common pitfalls—didactic tone, clunky rhythm, forced rhyme—and explains how to improve through reading as a writer, studying meter, and consistent practice.
Discover how poetry can transform STEAM learning, turning science and math concepts into memorable verses kids actually want to memorize and recite (like her hilarious liquid measurements poem that ends with a toilet flush!).
For writers, illustrators, librarians, and educators, Heidi walks through the step-by-step submission process: researching markets, following guidelines, understanding rights and payments, writing cover letters, and using platforms like Submittable—no agent required.
Plus, learn about Heidi's STEAM-Powered Poetry Contest where students create educational videos inspired by STEAM poetry, with free entry and cash prizes!If you've been waiting for the "perfect" moment to submit your work, this episode will show you exactly how to take your first step toward publication.
🎧 Subscribe to the podcast to learn more insider tips for writers and creators!☕
Support our podcast:
Buy us a Ko-fi → https://ko-fi.com/storytellersshelfpodcast
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#poetry #poem #childrensbooks #writingcommunity #authortube #booktok #books #education #library #ChildrensPoetry #GetPublished #WritingForKids #PoetrySubmission #ChildrensLiterature #highlightsmagazine #writingtips #steamlearning #poetrycontest #writerslife #publishingtips #publishinghouse
“Being a good writer is like being a good actor. You have to know people. You have to know things… anything you can do to pick up on life experiences really does, because at the end of the day, when you sit down to write, you have to pull from something.” -Max BeaudryWhat is it really like to write the shows that kids everywhere love and talk about? Emmy Award winning writer Max Beaudry joins us for an exciting and heartfelt conversation about his work on some of the most popular children’s series on television, including Paw Patrol, Baby Shark’s Big Show, Gabby’s Dollhouse, Dora and Friends, and several other favorites across Nickelodeon, DreamWorks, and Netflix Kids.Max opens up about how he found his creative home in children’s animation. He shares how his love of classic slapstick comedy, especially icons like Jerry Lewis, Dean Martin, and Abbott and Costello, shaped the humor, timing, and joyful silliness in his writing. His natural connection to big physical comedy and warmhearted storytelling makes him a perfect fit for kids entertainment.We also talk about Max’s work on The Cursed Life of Thackery Binx, created with James Marsden and featuring Jason Marsden, the original voice of Thackery Binx from Hocus Pocus. Max gives a fascinating look at what it is like to help expand such an iconic character for a new generation.A major highlight of this episode is Max’s book series created with illustrator David Perry. Their graphic novel adventures begin with Aw, Nuts, published by PaperKutz and distributed by @SimonandSchusterInc , and continue with more books in the same chaotic, funny, food filled world. The series captures Max’s signature style of big energy, heartfelt humor, and imaginative storytelling that appeals to kids and parents alike.Max also shares his unique creative process, including his habit of pacing with his laptop while writing, and explains why life experience, curiosity, and playfulness are essential to strong storytelling. His insights will inspire authors, illustrators, screenwriters, teachers, and anyone interested in children’s media.Subscribe to Our Channel! Help support our Podcast:KOFI → https://ko-fi.com/storytellersshelfpodcast GOFUNDME → https://www.gofundme.com/f/storytellersshelfLinktree: https://linktr.ee/thestorytellersshelfpodcast✏️ Give this Scrivener a try → https://www.literatureandlatte.com/scrivener-affiliate.html/storyteller?fpr=storyteller#ChildrensBooks #GraphicNovelsForKids #KidsComics #PawPatrol #BabyShark #GabbysDollhouse #KidsAnimation #ChildrensTelevision#JerryLewis #SlapstickComedy #ClassicComedy #WritingForKids #KidsMedia#KidLit #CreativeProcess #Screenwriting #AnimationWriter #WritersRoom #ChildrensMediaPodcast #nickelodeon #netflixseries #jamesmarsden #simonandschuster #dreamworks #booktok #authortube
Ever wonder how a publishing company is actually built?Kate Simkins, founder and publisher of Big Thinking Publishing (UK), pulls back the curtain on what it really takes to run a modern independent press — from acquiring manuscripts and editing picture books, middle grade, YA, new adult, and poetry titles to managing finances, marketing strategies, and maintaining transparent relationships with authors.💬 “You’ve got to love it — it’s time-consuming, but worth every second.” – Kate SimkinsDiscover how Big Thinking Publishing was founded, how they select and develop books, and the guiding principles behind their success. Gain valuable insights into what it takes to bring meaningful stories to life and build a thriving publishing company from the ground up.💡 Have you subscribed to The Storyteller’s Shelf Podcast yet? Hit subscribe and never miss inspiring interviews with authors and publishing professionals shaping today’s stories.☕ Support the podcast:KOFI → https://ko-fi.com/storytellersshelfpodcastGOFUNDME → https://www.gofundme.com/f/storytellersshelf✏️ Try Scrivener:https://www.literatureandlatte.com/scrivener-affiliate.html/storyteller?fpr=storyteller
Shop our Linktree: https://linktr.ee/thestorytellersshelfpodcast#authors #childrensbooks #publishinghouse #writingcommunity #publishingtips #writingcommunity #booktok #books #podcastclips #education #publishing #publishingindustry #literacy #kidlit #authortube #library #books #submission
“Being led by your curiosity opens so many doors.” — Janna Morishima ✨
You want a career in children’s publishing, but don’t know where to start?
You’re sending cold emails, second-guessing yourself, and wondering if anyone actually breaks in without connections.
In this episode of The Storyteller’s Shelf Podcast, Janna Morishima—founder of Kids Comics Unite, literary agent at Janna Co., and co-founder of Scholastic Graphix—reveals how she went from knowing one person in New York City to helping launch the kids’ graphic novel revolution at Scholastic.
🎧 What you’ll learn:
How Graphix became a powerhouse for children’s graphic novels
Why curiosity and community can open career doors in publishing
The truth about agent life, burnout, and creative reinvention
How to network authentically and find real publishing opportunities
If you’ve dreamed of working in books, illustration, or publishing but don’t know where to begin—this conversation will change the way you see your path forward.
💡 Watch more episodes featuring authors, illustrators, and publishing professionals redefining storytelling.
🔔 Subscribe to stay inspired and learn what it really takes to build a career in children’s literature.
☕ Support The Storyteller’s Shelf Podcast:
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GOFUNDME → https://www.gofundme.com/f/storytellersshelf
✏️ Try Scrivener for your next story idea:
https://www.literatureandlatte.com/scrivener-affiliate.html/storyteller?fpr=storyteller
#ScholasticGraphix
#ChildrensPublishing
#KidLit
#GraphicNovels
#LiteraryAgent
#PublishingCareers
#ComicsCommunity
#WomenInPublishing
#AuthorPodcast
“You’re not there to teach — you’re there to inspire.” — Andy Coats
Award-winning children’s author and illustrator Andy Coats has self-published 18 books, built a thriving brand through school visits, and mastered the art of launching stories that connect with readers and educators alike.
In this episode of The Storyteller’s Shelf Podcast, Andy shares how authors can turn school visits into a powerful way to grow their audience, inspire students, and generate real income — all while staying true to their creative mission.
💡 In this episode, learn how to:
Book your first school visit and get paid what you’re worth (yes, we discuss real rates!)
Create engaging, memorable assemblies for students and teachers
Partner with local businesses to fund your visits and boost book sales
Shift your mindset from hobby writer to creative entrepreneur
If you’ve ever dreamed of turning your authorship into a thriving business, this episode is your guide.
🎧 Watch full episodes on YouTube or listen on Spotify
Support the podcast → https://ko-fi.com/storytellersshelfpodcast
Write smarter with Scrivener → https://www.literatureandlatte.com/scrivener-affiliate.html/storyteller?fpr=storyteller
Explore all links → https://linktr.ee/thestorytellersshelfpodcast
#AuthorBusiness #SchoolVisits #BookMarketing #KidLit #MiddleGradeBooks #WritingCommunity #education #writingcommunity #library #authors
“Writing is failing your way upwards.” — Kwame Mbalia
Award-winning author Kwame Mbalia shares behind-the-scenes insight from writing CAPTAIN AMERICA: BRAVE NEW WORLD: A HERO LOOKS LIKE YOU for Marvel, his new Star Wars novel, and leading the Disney-Hyperion imprint FREEDOM FIRE—a space dedicated to celebrating Black stories and voices across the diaspora.
He also opens up about:
How to “fail your way upwards” as a writer
Why some stories are meant just for practice
Balancing creativity, parenting, and deadlines
The future of diversity and equity in publishing
How research and curiosity fuel his storytelling process
💡 Have you subscribed to The Storyteller’s Shelf Podcast yet? Hit subscribe and never miss inspiring interviews with authors shaping stories.
☕ Support the podcast:
KOFI → https://ko-fi.com/storytellersshelfpodcast
GOFUNDME → https://www.gofundme.com/f/storytellersshelf
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“Being led by your curiosity opens so many doors.” — Janna Morishima
You want a career in children’s publishing—but don’t know where to start?
You’re sending cold emails, second-guessing yourself, and wondering if anyone actually breaks in without connections.In this episode of @thestorytellersshelfpodcast , Janna Morishima—founder of Kids Comics Unite, literary agent at Janna Co., and co-founder of Scholastic Graphix—reveals how she went from knowing one person in New York City to helping launch the kids’ graphic novel revolution at Scholastic.
🎧 What you’ll learn:
How Graphix became a powerhouse for children’s graphic novelsWhy curiosity and community can open career doors in publishing. The truth about agent life, burnout, and creative reinvention.
How to network authentically and find real publishing opportunitiesIf you’ve dreamed of working in books, illustration, or publishing but don’t know where to begin—this conversation will change the way you see your path forward.
💡 Watch more episodes featuring authors, illustrators, and publishing professionals redefining storytelling.
🔔 Subscribe to stay inspired and learn what it really takes to build a career in children’s literature.
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“Children’s publishing is serious work. We’re building future readers.” — Lori WieczorekBreaking into children’s publishing can feel confusing and competitive. In this episode, Lori Wieczorek, Senior Editor of Trade Licensing at Scholastic, shares her real journey from campus newspaper to Scholastic Book Clubs and Trade Licensing. Learn how licensing and fandom inspire reluctant readers, what a senior editor’s day truly looks like, and how versatility across formats can shape a lasting publishing career.In this episode you’ll learn:📚 How the Book Clubs “buyer” track builds editorial confidence🧠 Why reading widely sharpens judgment across picture books, graphic novels, chapter books, and YA🤝 Simple networking strategies for introverts that lead to real connections🎮 How trend-tracking through pop culture and conventions supports editorial insight🧩 Collaboration tips with sales, design, marketing, and licensors to bring books to market💬 Why children’s publishing is both art and responsibility—we’re building future readers.Make sure to subscribe, ring the notification bell, and share this with a friend!☕ Support the podcast: KOFI → https://ko-fi.com/storytellersshelfpodcast GOFUNDME → https://www.gofundme.com/f/storytellersshelf✏️ Give this Scrivener a try → https://www.literatureandlatte.com/scrivener-affiliate.html/storyteller?fpr=storytellerGo to our Linktree: https://linktr.ee/thestorytellersshelfpodcast#KidLit #PublishingCareers #Scholastic #EditorsLife #BookJobs #Licensing #GraphicNovels #Marvel #MilesMorales #PeppaPig #Editor #Publishing #PublishBook #ludacris #marvel #disney #scholastic #authortube #booktok #books #podcastclips #library #homeschooling #reading #education