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February 16, 2021

What Tara Lazar Taught Me About Writing Children’s Books, Creativity, and StoryStorm

Many aspiring authors dream of publishing a children's book. Far fewer build a sustainable writing life that lasts for years or even decades. In this interview, bestselling children's author and StoryStorm founder Tara Lazar shares lessons on creativity, idea generation, publishing, perseverance, and why writing is more than a hobby—it's a lifestyle. Whether you're an aspiring author, experienced writer, or creative professional, Tara's insights offer practical encouragement for building a long-term creative practice.

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.

November 12, 2019

Writing Books That Matter: Charlotte Watson Sherman and Jes Negron on Brown Sugar Babe

Some books entertain. Some educate. A rare few are created because their authors believe the book needs to exist. Brown Sugar Babe is one of those books. In this interview, author Charlotte Watson Sherman and editor Jes Negron discuss the purpose behind the picture book, the importance of representation in children's literature, the realities of the publishing process, and the role stories can play in helping young readers see themselves with confidence, dignity, and hope. Their conversation offers valuable insights not only into publishing children's books, but also into creating work that serves a meaningful purpose beyond the page.

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 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.

November 4, 2017

Lessons on Writing, Discipline, and Publishing from Science Fiction Author Thane Keller

My brother, Thane Keller, is a science fiction author, U.S. Army veteran, husband, and father. His experiences serving in Iraq and Afghanistan have influenced both his worldview and the stories he writes. In this interview, we discuss self-publishing, writing discipline, military influence on storytelling, building fictional worlds, and what aspiring authors can learn from the long process of finishing books. Although this conversation took place in 2017, many of the lessons about persistence, creativity, and craftsmanship remain just as relevant today.

August 20, 2017

An Interview with Author James Conan on Writing, Publishing, and Creative Growth

Writers often spend most of their time talking about finished books, but some of the most valuable insights come from the work happening behind the scenes — revision, rejection, publishing, editing, and learning how stories evolve before readers ever see them. In this interview, author James Conan shares his thoughts on short stories, publishing, creative growth, digital storytelling, rejection, and what it really takes to improve as a writer over time.