June 15, 2018

How to Create Tension in Writing: Simple Techniques That Keep Readers Turning Pages

Most people try to avoid tension in real life. We dislike uncertainty, conflict, fear, and difficult decisions. In fiction, however, tension is one of the most important tools a writer can use. Whether you're writing novels, short stories, picture books, or memoirs, tension creates curiosity. It gives readers a reason to keep turning pages because they want to know what happens next. Understanding how tension works can dramatically improve your writing.

June 13, 2018

Lessons from Rhonda Gowler Greene: Persistence, Picture Books, and Traditional Publishing Success

Rhonda Gowler Greene is the author of more than two dozen children's picture books and has spent over two decades building a successful traditional publishing career. Her books have received numerous honors, including School Library Journal Best Book, ILA Children's Choice Book, Bank Street College Best Book recognition, and multiple starred reviews. What makes her publishing journey especially encouraging for aspiring authors is that it began with persistence through rejection. Before selling her first books and securing literary representation, Rhonda accumulated more than 220 rejections while continuing to study children's literature and refine her craft. In this interview, we discuss literary agents, publishing rejection, writing picture books, creative persistence, balancing family and writing, and what aspiring authors can learn from a lifetime spent studying children's literature. Although this conversation took place in 2018, the lessons about writing, publishing, and professional growth remain just as relevant today.

June 11, 2018

The Publishing Trend That Never Changes

Every year authors are told to pay attention to trends. Which genres are growing? Which categories are declining? Which books are selling? While understanding the publishing industry has value, many aspiring authors make the same mistake. They spend more time studying trends than creating books. The truth is that most publishing trends come and go. But one publishing principle has remained unchanged for decades: readers return to authors who consistently create work they love.

February 13, 2018

Lessons from Debbie Dadey: 166 Children’s Books, 42 Million Copies Sold

Debbie Dadey is one of the most successful children's authors of the modern era. Best known as the co-creator of The Adventures of the Bailey School Kids series, she has published more than 160 traditionally published books and sold over 42 million copies worldwide. A former teacher and librarian, Debbie has spent decades helping young readers discover a love of books. In this interview, we discuss writing perseverance, traditional publishing, critique groups, finding time to write, working with co-authors, mentoring aspiring writers, and what it takes to build a long-term career in children's publishing. Although this conversation took place in 2018, the lessons about creativity, persistence, and professional growth remain just as relevant today.

February 10, 2018

Lessons on Illustration, Creativity, and Building an Artistic Career from Katy Halford

Katy Halford is a children's book illustrator whose work spans publishing, commercial illustration, art licensing, and character design. After earning a degree in illustration, she built a successful freelance career through consistent practice, portfolio development, and a willingness to keep learning. In this interview, we discuss creative growth, working with publishers, building relationships with clients, overcoming rejection, and what aspiring illustrators can do to develop a sustainable artistic career. Although this conversation took place in 2018, many of the lessons about creativity, persistence, and professional development remain just as relevant today.

February 9, 2018

Lessons on Writing, Nature, and Curiosity from Author Lisa Connors

Lisa Connors is a children's author, nature writer, educator, and lifelong student of the natural world. Through both fiction and nonfiction, she aims to spark curiosity and help young readers develop a deeper appreciation for science, wildlife, and the environment. In this interview, we discuss writing for children, self-publishing versus traditional publishing, working with illustrators, creative perseverance, and the importance of staying curious throughout life. Although this conversation took place in 2018, many of the lessons about creativity, publishing, and lifelong learning remain just as relevant today.

January 4, 2018

Why Positivity Is a Skill You Can Train (Not Just a Personality Trait)

Some people seem naturally optimistic while others struggle with negative thoughts, frustration, or discouragement. It's easy to assume positivity is simply part of someone's personality. I don't believe that's true. While our personalities influence how we see the world, our daily thoughts and reactions are habits we can strengthen over time. Just as we develop discipline, patience, or confidence through repeated choices, we can also train ourselves to respond to life's frustrations with greater perspective and self-control. That doesn't mean pretending problems don't exist or forcing fake happiness. It means learning to respond intentionally instead of reacting automatically. Positivity isn't about denying reality. It's about choosing the most helpful response to reality.

January 1, 2018

How to Query Literary Agents: Examples, Templates & Mistakes to Avoid

Querying a literary agent is the process of pitching your manuscript to agents in hopes of securing representation. In this guide, you’ll learn how to write a query letter, what agents actually want, common mistakes to avoid, query letter examples, and how to track submissions professionally. Whether you’re querying fiction, nonfiction, or children’s books, this guide walks you through the entire process step-by-step.