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August 31, 2017

Why The Terrible PLOP Is Such an Effective Children’s Book

The Terrible PLOP by Ursula Dubosarsky, illustrated by Andrew Joyner, is one of those children's books that proves first impressions can be misleading. At first glance, I wasn't sure what to expect. The title felt odd, the cover didn't immediately grab my attention, and I assumed the story would be fairly forgettable. I was wrong. Beneath the unusual title is a clever picture book that combines humor, suspense, rhyme, and an important lesson about fear and group behavior.

August 28, 2017

Why Sam and Dave Dig a Hole Is Such a Brilliant Children’s Book

Some children’s books entertain for a few minutes and are quickly forgotten. Others stay with both children and adults long after the final page. Sam and Dave Dig a Hole by Mac Barnett, illustrated by Jon Klassen, is one of those rare picture books. Beneath its simple premise is a surprisingly clever lesson in suspense, storytelling, illustration, curiosity, and perseverance.

August 24, 2017

R.J. Batla on Writing Fantasy, Self-Publishing, and Creative Growth

R.J. Batla was one of the first authors I connected with while building my own author platform. Over the years, he has been a genuine encouragement and friend throughout the publishing journey. A lifelong fan of fantasy, worldbuilding, and storytelling, R.J. writes epic fantasy inspired by imagination, family, faith, and adventure. In this interview, we discuss creative growth, self-publishing, writing discipline, and what aspiring authors can learn from the long road of becoming a writer.

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.