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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.

October 1, 2020

KidLit Fall Writing Frenzy 2020My KidLit Fall Writing Frenzy 2020 Entry (And the Meaning Behind the Poem)KidLit Fall Writing Frenzy 2020

Writing prompts have a unique ability to unlock creativity when inspiration feels out of reach. Sometimes all it takes is a single image, question, or challenge to spark an idea that otherwise might never have appeared. Writing contests can be especially valuable because they encourage us to experiment, stretch our creative muscles, and create something within a specific set of constraints. In 2020, I participated in the KidLit Fall Writing Frenzy, a popular children's literature writing contest that challenged participants to create original pieces inspired by visual prompts. The result was a short poem titled Underneath the Costume Veil, which explores identity, self-doubt, self-acceptance, and the masks we sometimes wear to fit in. Below, you'll find the original contest entry along with information about the KidLit Fall Writing Frenzy and why writing prompts remain one of the best tools for overcoming creative blocks.

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.

May 24, 2020

Why Some Stories Stay With You Long After You Finish Them

Why do some stories stay with us for years while others are forgotten almost immediately? Whether you're a reader, writer, content creator, educator, or entrepreneur, memorable storytelling matters. The stories we remember often shape how we think, feel, and act long after we encounter them. They become part of our experiences rather than simply content we consumed. As creators, understanding why certain stories leave lasting impressions can help us create stronger work. As readers, it helps us recognize what makes our favorite books, articles, speeches, and stories so powerful. The difference between forgettable content and memorable content often comes down to one thing: connection.

March 24, 2020

Leaving a Stable Career to Pursue Writing

Many people dream about leaving an unfulfilling career to pursue work they truly love. Far fewer actually take the leap. Making a major career change requires uncertainty, sacrifice, persistence, and a willingness to start over. In this interview, author Kaitlin Scirri shares how she left a successful career, returned to college in her thirties, and built a professional writing career centered around books, literacy, and lifelong learning. Her journey offers valuable lessons for anyone considering a career transition or pursuing a long-term creative goal.

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.

November 5, 2019

Behind Go, Girls, Go!: Frances Gilbert on Writing, Editing, and Publishing Children’s Books

Few people get to see the publishing industry from multiple angles. Frances Gilbert has spent decades helping bring children's books into the world as an editor while also experiencing the uncertainty, vulnerability, and excitement of being an author herself. In this interview, Frances shares lessons from her work as Editor-in-Chief of Doubleday Books for Young Readers and discusses the release of her picture book, Go, Girls, Go! Along the way, she offers valuable insights into storytelling, publishing, platform building, creativity, and what separates successful children's book creators from those who never quite break through.

September 24, 2019

What It Really Takes to Write Children’s Books: Insights from Brooke Van Sickle

Writing for children looks simple from the outside. The books are shorter, the language appears straightforward, and the stories often feel effortless. Yet creating books that truly connect with young readers requires far more skill, discipline, and intentionality than many people realize. Children's author, editor, and educator Brooke Van Sickle has spent years studying the craft, building a platform within the children's publishing industry, and helping aspiring authors navigate the path from idea to publication. In this interview, Brooke shares practical lessons on writing for children, developing creative discipline, building an author platform, and pursuing a long-term career in publishing.