Stories & Case Studies Archives

Stories & Case Studies

How Branding and Storytelling Help Writers Build Audience Trust

Great communication shapes everything—from marketing campaigns and brand messaging to books, websites, and social media posts. Few people have seen both sides of that equation as closely as author, illustrator, and communications professional Shay Fan. Having worked in branding, public relations, content strategy, and publishing, Shay has spent years studying how people connect with ideas, stories, and each other. In this interview, she shares lessons on communication, audience trust, branding, storytelling, publishing, and what creators can learn from both the corporate and creative worlds.

October 13, 2020

10 Thoughtful Gift Ideas for Reader and Writer Dads

Shopping for dads can be difficult, especially when they insist they don't need anything. If the dad in your life loves reading, writing, learning, or collecting interesting ideas, the best gifts are often the ones that support those passions. Whether he's an aspiring author, lifelong reader, journal enthusiast, blogger, or simply someone who enjoys thoughtful hobbies, the right gift can encourage creativity and provide years of enjoyment. Here are ten thoughtful gift ideas for reader and writer dads that combine inspiration, practicality, and fun.

August 24, 2020

Writing the Book You Wish Existed: Megan Lacera on Creativity, Publishing, and Original Ideas

Some of the best books begin with a simple realization: this book should exist, but it doesn't. That realization helped inspire Zombies Don't Eat Veggies!, a picture book created by author Megan Lacera and illustrator Jorge Lacera. What began as a fun story about a young zombie grew into something deeper—a story about identity, family, belonging, and embracing what makes us different. In this interview, Megan shares how the book came to life, what she's learned about publishing, how she collaborates with her husband as a creative team, and why some stories are worth pursuing even when success isn't guaranteed. Writers, illustrators, and creators alike will find valuable insight on developing original ideas, handling rejection, and creating the work they wish already existed.

August 18, 2020

Heather Macht on Writing, Publishing, and Finding Time to Create

How do authors continue creating books while balancing careers, family responsibilities, and unexpected life challenges? Children's book author Heather Macht understands that challenge firsthand. As a traditionally published author, healthcare technology professional, parent, and active member of the children's publishing community, she has learned how to pursue creative goals even when time is limited and circumstances are less than ideal. In this interview, Heather shares insights into publishing with Pelican Publishing, launching books, managing a busy schedule, staying productive during periods of disruption, and continuing to write despite competing demands. Whether you're an aspiring author, working professional, or creative trying to find more time for your craft, you'll find practical encouragement throughout her journey.

July 28, 2020

Illustrator June Steube on Creativity, Criticism, and Children’s Book Publishing

What does it take to build a career as a professional illustrator? For artist June Steube, the answer involves curiosity, persistence, continual learning, and a deep love for the natural world. Known for her detailed animal illustrations and expressive storytelling, June has spent years refining her craft while navigating criticism, creative challenges, publishing opportunities, and the realities of professional art. In this interview, she shares insights into her creative process, artistic growth, publishing experiences, and the lessons she's learned along the way. Whether you're an illustrator, writer, or creative professional, you'll find valuable encouragement and practical wisdom throughout her journey.

June 19, 2020

Magic Tree House Books in Order (Complete List + Reading Age Guide)

Finding book series that children genuinely want to read can be surprisingly difficult. Finding books parents enjoy reading aloud night after night can be even harder. After hearing countless recommendations for the Magic Tree House Books by Mary Pope Osborne, our family decided to take a chance on a boxed set. What started as an experiment quickly became one of the most successful additions to our home library. If you're wondering whether Magic Tree House is worth reading, what age group it works best for, or what order the books should be read in, this guide covers everything you need to know.

March 3, 2020

What It’s Really Like to Be a Children’s Book Author-Illustrator

Many aspiring creators dream about publishing books for children, but few understand what life actually looks like once those dreams begin becoming reality. Behind every published picture book are deadlines, revisions, school visits, creative challenges, business decisions, and years spent developing both craft and career. In this interview, author-illustrator Shanda McCloskey shares an honest look at the realities of children's publishing, including creativity, time management, school visits, technology, illustration, and navigating the ups and downs of a professional creative career. Whether you're an aspiring author, illustrator, or simply curious about the publishing industry, her journey offers valuable lessons about persistence, growth, and building a creative life.

December 3, 2019

Behind Grama’s Hug: Amy Nielander on Writing, Illustration, and Persistence

Creating a picture book often looks simple from the outside. A reader sees a finished story, beautiful illustrations, and a book on a shelf. What they rarely see are the years of revisions, rejected drafts, critique sessions, conference feedback, and creative persistence required to bring that book into existence. Many successful children's books spend years evolving before finding the right publisher and audience. In this interview, author-illustrator Amy Nielander and editor Courtney Burke share the journey behind Grama's Hug, a picture book that took nearly seven years to develop from its original concept into a published book. Their conversation offers valuable insights into revision, resilience, author-illustrator careers, and the collaborative process that transforms an idea into a finished picture book.