Writers With Wrinkles: Recent Episodes
Beth McMullen and Lisa Schmid
Authors Beth McMullen and Lisa Schmid iron out the wrinkles in writing, publishing, and everything in between . . . One podcast at a time.
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Wendelin Van Draanen spent 10 years collecting rejections before anyone said yes to her Sammy Keyes mystery series — she just kept writing the next one anyway. Now, 40 books and 30 years later, she's still with the same editor who finally did.
If you've ever wondered whether to keep pitching a project nobody wants yet, or whether staying loyal to one editor for decades is a mistake in an industry that rewards jumping ship — this conversation is the counter-argument. Wendelin also gets candid about the moment Rob Reiner called to option Flipped, what it actually takes to hand your book to Hollywood without losing your mind, and the book-festival disaster that had two authors comparing notes on the exact same nightmare bookstore.
Ghosted, Wendelin's new romantasy, is up for pre-order now ahead of its October 6th release.
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You could finish four books this year and only ever get to publish one of them.
That's the traditional publishing timeline in a nutshell — and it's why more authors are quietly going hybrid: keeping one foot in a trad deal and self-publishing everything else on their own schedule, without waiting on anyone's calendar.
In this episode, Beth and Lisa break down what a hybrid author actually is (not to be confused with a hybrid publisher — totally different thing), why it's suddenly everywhere in publishing conversations, and the different ways real authors are structuring it: splitting genres between trad and self-pub, keeping e-book/audio rights on a trad print deal, reissuing backlist titles that reverted back to them. They also get into the real tradeoffs — creative control and faster cash flow vs. running two jobs at once (author and small business owner) — plus a few authors doing it well right now, like Rebecca Thorne.
Also in this episode: a shoutout to listener and author Kate McCarrell Moore's new release, Walter and Benny: Good Guys, Nature Spies, and a preview of next episode's guest, bestselling author Wendelin Van Draanen.
Hit play, and if you're new here, follow the show — new episodes every week. Find more at writerswithwrinkles.net.
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New York Times bestselling author Jason June (Out of the Blue, Jay's Gay Agenda) returns to Writers With Wrinkles for a wide-ranging conversation covering his growing acting career, the current state of the publishing industry, and his upcoming adult rom-com Santa and Krampus' Cozy Killer Christmas, out fall 2027. Jason is refreshingly candid — about book advances, about the anxiety running through publishing right now, and about finding joy in the work when the business side gets hard.
GuestJason June — NYT bestselling author, actor, screenwriter, and self-described "Laura Dern stan" based in Dallas, TX. Known for YA rom-coms Out of the Blue and Jay's Gay Agenda, and publisher of The Ventorship, a newsletter on author finances and transparency.
Highlights• Auditioning post-COVID: why self-tapes democratize acting, and what's lost without an in-person redirect from a casting director
• How years of writing fiction sharpened Jason's instincts for character and story on set
• The "greater sense of unease" in publishing right now — AI concerns, slow timelines, and authors questioning why traditional publishing can't move faster
• Self-publishing's rising role, the discovery gap it still faces, and why hybrid careers are becoming more common
• The Dungeon Crawler Carl story as a case study in trusting your own artistic vision
• Why Jason publicly shares his advances and royalties through The Ventorship — and the argument that most of that "secrecy" is self-imposed
• Publishing as a side hustle: debut culture, shrinking advances, and the myth of the "cushy" author life
• The MER Principle (Beth's term): find the niche community obsessed with your book's specific hook, not a general audience
• The premise behind Santa and Krampus' Cozy Killer Christmas — a "dark cozy" where Krampus only kills the people who'd otherwise doom humanity
• Jason's advice to aspiring authors: chase the joy, and aim to be "prolific, not perfect"
Key TakeawayWhether you're navigating traditional publishing, weighing a hybrid career, or just trying to market your next book, the throughline is the same: get specific. Specific about your niche audience, specific about your finances, and specific about what actually brings you joy in the work.
Have a marketing tip that's worked for you? Beth and Lisa want to hear it.
• Beth: beth@writerswithwrinkles.net
• Lisa: lisa@writerswithwrinkles.net
• Join The Waiting Room, our Facebook community for writers
• Website: writerswithwrinkles.net
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Episode Summary
In this episode of Writers With Wrinkles, hosts Beth McMullen and Lisa Schmid welcome back returning guest Lisa Frenkel Riddiough to discuss her brand-new picture book, Furious Turtle (Disney Hyperion), book two in the Forest School of Big Feelings series. The conversation quickly moves into the heart of the episode: Lisa's experience losing her longtime literary agent to retirement and having to re-enter the query trenches after years of being represented.
Lisa walks through how her second querying experience differed from her first — a small, curated list built mostly on personal referrals, a calmer and more strategic mindset, and the ability to separate emotional attachment from business decision-making. She also shares the exact query letter that landed her new agent, breaking down why it worked so well, including her formula for picture book pitches (title + word count + comps, story gist, and the twist/ending).
The episode wraps with candid advice for writers who've lost an agent — take stock of the career you've already built — and Lisa's biggest publishing lesson: it's okay to make mistakes.
Key Topics Discussed
- New release: Furious Turtle, a rhyming picture book about managing big emotions, releasing the day after this episode airs
- Book launch event at Old Haunts Bookstore in Granite Bay, CA
- Losing an agent to retirement and starting the query process over
- Building a small, referral-based query list instead of mass-querying
- Using leverage (an editor offer) without abandoning the goal of finding an agent who loves the full body of work
- Reading her actual query letter aloud, line by line
- Picture book pitch formula: title, word count, comps → story gist → the twist/ending
- Keeping old manuscripts organized — shelved drafts can resurface as the right opportunity later
- Pitching picture books vs. middle grade novels
- Reframing job loss (agent loss) as not career loss — taking stock of everything already built
- Embracing mistakes as part of the growth process in publishing
Notable Quotes
- On what a great query needs: the title should convey nearly the entire premise of a picture book.
- On business vs. heart: writers need to separate emotional attachment from evaluating what's genuinely a good match professionally.
- On losing an agent: the fact that someone once represented you is proof a career already exists — that career doesn't disappear with the agent.
- On mistakes: mistakes are simply how writers learn, and grace matters more than perfection.
Guest Info
Lisa Frenkel Riddiough writes board books, picture books, and middle grade novels using wordplay, humor, rhyme, and whimsy. She holds an MFA in Writing for Children and Young Adults from Hamline University. More at lisariddiough.com.
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Beth and Lisa welcome literary agent and debut author Alia Hanna Habib, whose book Take It From Me is a practical behind-the-scenes guide to getting a nonfiction book published. Alia represents acclaimed writers including Clint Smith and Nicole Hannah-Jones, was named one of New York Magazine's most powerful New Yorkers you've never heard of, and writes the Substack newsletter Delivery and Acceptance.
WHAT IT'S REALLY LIKE TO BE A WRITER (WHEN YOU'RE ALSO AN AGENT)
Alia shares what it was like to experience the writer's side of publishing for the first time — the anxiety of waiting for feedback, the obsessive inbox-checking, and the hard-won empathy for her own clients. Her takeaway: before you hit send on that panicked email to your agent, ask yourself — am I sending this because I need an answer, or to soothe my own anxiety? If it's the latter, wait.
HOW THE BOOK CAME TO BE
The idea came during an afternoon nap. Alia was expanding a writing workshop for Stanford academics and realized there was no practical guide specifically about nonfiction publishing. She texted her colleague and friend Meredith Pafel Simonoff two paragraphs — and had a proposal within weeks. Writing the book took two years, complicated by divorce, loss, and the realities of doing it alongside a full-time career.
THE NONFICTION LANDSCAPE RIGHT NOW
We're in an escapist moment. Romantasy, cozy mysteries, and rom-coms are dominating. In nonfiction, what's working is practical books that make your life better or give you hope. Alia also sees a coming wave of tech-critical books skeptical of our online lives. Her agenting philosophy: if something fascinates her, it'll fascinate readers. She doesn't chase headlines — nonfiction timelines are two-plus years, and you can't predict the news.
CRAFT: WRITING A WINNING NONFICTION PROPOSAL
The biggest mistake Alia sees is what she calls "death by PowerPoint" — leading with marketing bullet points instead of writing. Publishers are readers first. Her advice:
- Open with a scene in the voice of the book, not a summary
- Solve the "page 100 problem" — what's the engine that sustains 80,000 words?
- Keep marketing sections grounded in what you actually bring to the table — platform, expertise, existing audience. Publishers decide budgets and tours. Skip the hypotheticals.
- You're being judged on how you tell a story, not how great you are at bullet points
WHAT ALIA IS LOOKING FOR RIGHT NOW
Books that provide guidance or reframe someone's life, historical true crime, and narrative nonfiction with a strong storytelling engine. Current projects include a Regency-era true crime story and My Jane Austen Breakup Album — a literary memoir about a man who lost his partner and his home and spent a year couch-surfing with his collected Jane Austen, reading her for romantic advice while navigating the gay dating scene in Manhattan.
FIND ALIA
Substack: Delivery and Acceptance
Book: Take It From Me — available now wherever books are sold
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Literary agent Ann Rose (Marsal Lyon Literary Agency) returns to Writers With Wrinkles for a candid, funny, and reassuring conversation with Beth and Lisa about the current state of publishing—and how writers can keep going anyway. Ann is also the author of The Seemingly Impossible Love Life of Amanda Dean and A Hexcellent Chance to Fall in Love.
The episode opens with a frank look at an industry in flux. Ann and the hosts dig into why publishers have grown so risk-averse, why "branded" and name-recognition titles are crowding out fresh voices, and why debut authors and previously published writers alike are finding the trenches tougher than ever. They also tackle the hard truth that marketing has largely shifted onto authors' shoulders—and that, post-Twitter, no one has cracked the code on selling books online.
From there, the conversation turns practical and hopeful. Ann shares exactly what hooks her in a first chapter, what makes her stop reading, and how to push past the "messy middle" of a draft. If you're querying, pivoting genres, or rebuilding after a book that didn't sell, this one's for you.
In this episode:
- Why publishers are playing it safe—and what that means for debuts and option books
- How the marketing burden has shifted to authors, and why there's no magic bullet
- The two things Ann needs in a first chapter: voice and character agency
- Why "starting with action" can backfire if we don't yet care about the character
- The power of the unexpected: write down your first idea, then find your seventh
- Red flags that make Ann stop reading, and the "and then" trap that kills momentum
- Trusting the reader and leaving space on the page (a lesson from Brian Selznick)
- Advice for authors dropped after a disappointing option—and how to shake off imposter syndrome
- Pivoting genres and riding the pendulum: why what's "dead" always comes back
- Ann's midpoint challenge: move your ending to the middle and raise the stakes
- Her #1 piece of advice for writers: stay in your own lane and stop comparing
- What's at the top of her wish list: feminine rage, women doing bad things for good reasons, and gripping, feminist-leaning suspense
Whether you're a debut writer, a seasoned author starting over, or somewhere in the messy middle, Ann's message is one to hold onto: control what you can—your writing—and don't be afraid to get gritty.
Learn more about Ann and find the full blog at writerswithwrinkles.net. Next time: an Ask Beth and Lisa episode—send us your questions! Until then, happy reading, writing, and listening.
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In this re-released conversation, developmental editor Joel Brigham returns to talk all things revision: how to approach your first editing pass, the most common pitfalls he sees in drafts, and how to know when a manuscript is truly ready to query. A great refresher as you set your summer writing goals. (Note: a recording glitch cut the original intro, which Beth explains at the top.)
What you'll learn in this episode
Joel revises in phases, and phase one is always structure. He looks for the "tent pole" story beats: the inciting incident, the midpoint turn, and the all-hope-is-lost moment, and checks whether they fall where reader expectations and pacing demand. He explains why pantsers tend to have the beats but in the wrong places, and how genre and age level dictate placement (the inciting incident around 8–12% for YA and adult, the romance meet-cute by the end of chapter one).
He then walks through a practical self-editing checklist writers can use before paying a professional:
- Have you hit the major story beats, and are they in the right place?
- Does every character, including the antagonist and secondary cast, have clear motivation and an arc?
- Is your character driving the plot through choices and consequences, or just passively reacting? (Joel calls character agency the single biggest difference between a good book and one that isn't ready.)
- Is there tension in every chapter, even small-scale?
- Are the stakes clear and high?
- Have you read your dialogue out loud?
- Does the book open and close with a bang?
- Is your word count appropriate for your genre and age level?
- For kid lit, have you checked readability scores (Lexile, Flesch-Kincaid)?
- Have you proofread to a pristine, professional standard?
- And finally, do you feel proud of it? That feeling, Joel says, is often how you know you're close.
The episode digs into developing narrative voice, which Joel calls the hardest thing to teach. His advice: read widely, mimic authors you admire until your own voice emerges, write in different mediums, be authentic, seek feedback, and read your work aloud. He shares his own path from imitating Dave Barry and John Green to finding his own style.
On story structure red flags, Joel offers a memorable test borrowed from South Park's Trey Parker and Matt Stone: strong stories connect scenes with "but" or "therefore," not "and then." A string of "and thens" signals missing consequences and a passive protagonist.
He also tackles the saggy middle and rushed endings, with concrete fixes for each: introduce a new obstacle, separate inseparable characters, drop a backstory reveal, add a ticking clock, or shift the power dynamic to revive a sagging midpoint. For endings, make your all-hope-is-lost moment dark enough that you're forced to pace the resolution, and think of act three as its own four-chapter arc.
He closes with hard-won advice on polishing: focus on one element at a time, get other eyes on your pages, learn to weigh feedback wisely, rest between revision phases, and above all, be right, not fast. Don't impose artificial deadlines or query before a manuscript is ready. As Joel reminds listeners, finishing a draft already puts you in rare company, and persistence is what eventually turns into success.
Resources & links
Learn more about Joel and find episode notes at writerswithwrinkles.net.
Happy reading, writing, and listening!
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Hosts Beth McMullen and Lisa Schmid cut through the noise of book marketing advice to spotlight what genuinely moves books: word of mouth. Nearly half of readers (47–48%) choose books based on personal recommendations — outperforming social media, platforms, and AI discovery tools combined. Beth and Lisa share three low-cost, actionable strategies to spark that word of mouth before and after your launch.
3 Strategies to Spark Word of Mouth
1. Build a Street Team
• Recruit 20–30 trusted readers (writers, friends, community members) and give them an advance copy — digital or print
• Provide a short, clear list of 3 specific asks: post on social media, share with friends, leave a review
• One voice becomes 25 — and those 25 can each reach 10 more, creating exponential amplification with minimal effort from you
2. Engage Bookstagrammers & BookTok Creators — Early
• Identify creators who read books in your genre months before your launch — not the week of
• Comment, share, and engage with their content authentically to build a genuine relationship first
• Pay it forward with fellow authors — share their books freely, and don't be afraid to ask directly when your book drops
3. Attend Local Book Festivals
• Book festivals are abundant, often within driving distance, and free to apply for as an author — no flights or hotel rooms required
• Having a new or recent release significantly improves your chances of acceptance; apply before your launch
• In-person connection creates lasting amplifiers — readers who meet you, enjoy your book, and tell 10 friends
Key Takeaway: Stop spending hours on content nobody sees. Invest that time in real relationships — book groups, communities, and fellow authors. Marketing doesn't have to be expensive or high-tech to work.
Have a marketing tip that's worked for you? Beth and Lisa want to hear it.
• Beth: beth@writerswithwrinkles.net
• Lisa: lisa@writerswithwrinkles.net
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Joel Brigham runs Brigham Editorial (developmental edits, manuscript critiques, query help), teaches high school English in Illinois, and is an editor for RevPit — a community that gives away free developmental edits each spring.
REVPIT
• Free developmental editing contest — editors (not authors) mentor selected writers through full drafts
• Applications open April, winners announced early May; ~14–15 editors participate
• Year-round mini-event: 10 Queries — public feedback on first 5 pages + query letters
THE FIRST DRAFT
• One goal: words on the page. Momentum beats perfection — always
• Psychology backs this up: Goal Gradient Effect, Zeigarnik Effect, and Commitment Principle all support just keeping going
• Comparing your messy first draft to your last polished book is a trap — every published book started the same way
5 DRAFTING HINDRANCES
• Starting slow — avoid waking-up scenes, mirror descriptions, dream openers. Try dropping into the middle of something (in medias res)
• Perfectionism — editing as you go wastes time on scenes that may not survive. Grammar is the last step
• Weak character foundation — know their goal, fear, flaw, and wound as early as possible
• No tension — even “everyday life” chapters before the inciting incident need friction, stakes, or a ticking clock
• Info dumping — no backstory or flashbacks in chapters 1–2. Backstory is a breadcrumb, not a full loaf
FOR DISCOVERY / PANTSER WRITERS
• Check in every 15–20k words — assess without forcing rigid plot beats
• By 20k: your character should have a clear want and be on the book’s core journey
• Made a change mid-draft? Drop a note and keep writing forward as if it’s always been that way — don’t stop to rewrite
LINKS
Joel’s services: brighameditorial.com • RevPit: reviseresub.com • Show notes: writerswithwrinkles.net
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Beth and Lisa talk with literary agent Nikki Carrero, from The Rights Factory, to break down the querying process from the agent’s side — what gets you noticed, what gets a pass, and how to make the most of The Call.
Highlights• Nikki runs monthly pitch parties on Threads — currently her only open submission path since she’s closed to general queries.
• Biggest query red flags: word count outside genre norms, miscategorized genre, and sending to agents who don’t rep your category.
• Personalization? Just use her name. “Dear Agent” won’t auto-reject you, but do double-check pronouns.
• Multiple passes don’t always mean bad writing — it may be wrong agents, weak hook, or pacing issues in the opening pages.
• Nikki is an editorial agent: developmental notes, line edits, and reader reactions all in the margins.
• Watch your social media. Agents notice public venting in the query trenches — keep it in private group chats.
Questions to Ask on The Call (with prospective agent!)• How editorial are you, and what does your revision process look like?
• Will I see the pitch letter and submission list?
• What happens if the book doesn’t sell — do you stay with me?
• Always ask for a boilerplate contract before signing.
Nikki’s Parting AdvicePatience and persistence. Self-publishing is not a fallback. Keep writing new books — voice and craft develop over time, and the writers who stick with it are the ones who break through.
Nikki Carerro Substack
Nikki Carerro Threads
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We tackle a publishing debate, draw writing wisdom from Taylor Swift, and dig into one of the most common craft problems in fiction — weak stakes and missing tension. Plus a community book shout-out.
THE HARDBACK DEBATE
Beth shares a Guardian article arguing hardbacks are outdated — too expensive, they kill buzz before the paperback drops, and lead with the least accessible format. Beth and Lisa push back: libraries and schools depend on durable formats, sprayed-edge editions have made hardcovers a Gen Z collector's item, and paperbacks consistently outsell. Lisa made hardcover a deal-breaker when negotiating Heart and Souls to protect library access.
Read the article here.
TAYLOR SWIFT AS A WRITING TEACHER
Swift is a master of show-don't-tell — capturing massive emotion in a single precise phrase without ever stating it outright. Beth recommends the New York Times in-depth interview on her songwriting process as required reading for any fiction writer.
CRAFT DEEP DIVE: STAKES, TENSION & CONSEQUENCES
Every story lives or dies on what is at risk. There are always two levels and you need both — external stakes (plot consequences) and internal stakes (identity, belief, sense of self). They must be connected or the story falls flat.
Beth's "So What?" Stress Test — apply to any scene or chapter:
- State what is happening in one plain sentence.
- Ask: So what? Readers ask this unconsciously on every page.
- Answer with a specific consequence — not "things get harder" but something like "she'll spend the rest of her life wondering if he ever really knew her."
- Ask "so what?" once more. What does this cost the character in terms of who they ARE? That second layer is where the real stakes live.
The Index Card Method: Write one sentence per chapter, lay the cards out, and ask what the stakes are in each. Any blank card is a dead zone — and dead zones lose readers.
COMMUNITY BOOK SHOUT-OUT
Double Crossed by Rebecca Barone — out April 28th. Middle grade narrative nonfiction about Operation Bodyguard, the Allied WWII mission to fool the Nazis about the true location of D-Day. Reads like a spy thriller. Every word is true.
Buy it here.
Join The Waiting Room, our private Facebook community for writers, to connect with authors like Rebecca and get your upcoming release featured in a future shout-out.
NEXT EPISODE: Agent Nikki Carrero from The Rights Factory joins us May 25th!
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First Page Feedback: Charlotte's Hunt for Glory
Beth and Lisa critique the opening page of a middle grade fantasy submission and pull out craft lessons for any writer working on those critical first pages.
The Submission
Charlotte's Hunt for Glory follows 12-year-old Charlotte through a morning routine steeped in grief for her late grandmother and sibling envy — anchored by a rich exploration of hair as identity.
What's Working
- A strong, warm first-person voice with real overall potential
- Efficient emotional layering: grief, envy, and identity all on page one
- Small character moments (sticking her tongue out at the mirror) that do big work
What to Work On
- No fantasy signal. MG fantasy readers expect an early hint of the fantastical — even one small touch. It needs to appear quickly.
- The "why now" test. Nothing distinguishes this morning from any other. Signal that this day changes everything (or something).
- Too much telling. The sister and family dynamics can be revealed through action and dialogue rather than description.
- Watch the clichés. Cascading down her back and stab of envy undercut an otherwise fresh voice.
Craft Takeaways
- Every sentence in your opening must earn its place — if it's not doing work, cut it.
- Most writers warm up in their first chapter. In revision, the real story usually starts later than you think.
- Don't delete cut material — save it. It may fit somewhere else (and if it doesn't, that's okay too).
Next episode: Ask Beth and Lisa — send in your questions!
Writers with Wrinkles is hosted by Beth McMullen and Lisa Schmid.
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The One Where Nobody Ordered the Books | Beth McMullen & Lisa Schmid
Lisa Schmid shares a cautionary tale from the Sacramento Book Festival, where a series of logistical failures turned what should have been an exciting milestone — her first book festival — into a comedy of errors. A week before the event she discovered the bookseller had never ordered any books, resulting in last-minute scrambling, one copy secured, and Lisa packing 20 of her own into her son’s little blue racing-sticker suitcase. She then had to park seven blocks away and roll it through the crowds just to get in the door.
The takeaway from both hosts: never assume logistics are handled — confirm book orders, ask who’s responsible for what, and follow up all the way through. Beth admitted she’s largely stopped accepting event invitations after too many similar experiences. On a positive note, Lisa previews an upcoming signing at Old Haunts Bookshop in Granite Bay — a model of how it should be done. Next week: guest Kolby Sharp, booked as a “palate cleanse” and described as a breath of fresh air for book lovers.
Key Takeaways
- Confirm your books have been ordered — don’t assume
- Ask who’s handling logistics and follow up close to the event
- Bring your own copies as backup if you can
- Check the organizer’s track record before you commit
- One person’s decision can have a major ripple effect on authors, organizers, and readers
YouTube video version
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Imprint closures, layoffs, and reorganizations are rattling the publishing world. Literary agent and At-Home Author founder Vicki Weber joins Beth and Lisa for a candid conversation about what’s driving these changes—and what writers can do about it. From the surprising role Harry Potter played in the decline of middle grade to building an audience before you have a book deal, Vicki delivers practical strategies for navigating today’s shifting landscape.
About Our Guest
Vicki Weber is a literary agent, bestselling children’s book author, and founder of At-Home Author. She helps writers craft, publish, and market books across traditional and self-publishing, and shares industry analysis on her popular Substack.
What We Cover
• The wave of imprint closures (Roaring Brook, Dial) and editorial cuts at Simon & Schuster
• How Harry Potter’s escalating length contributed to middle grade’s long-term decline
• Why acquisitions are harder than ever—and why an editor loving your book is just the beginning
• The industry push toward commercial fiction and what that means for querying writers
• Vicki’s #1 querying tip: write another book and build a portfolio
• Reading between the lines of agent wishlists to craft standout queries
• Self-publishing vs. traditional: rising standards and honest pros/cons
• Overcoming bad sales track with pen names, pivots, and reframing your story
• Building an email list pre-publication with free stories, newsletter swaps, and cheap ads
• Vicki’s wishlist: adult psychological horror, horror-tinged thrillers, genre mashups with social commentary
Loved this episode? Subscribe wherever you listen, visit writerswithwrinkles.net, and send your questions for the next Ask Beth & Lisa episode. Until next time—happy reading, writing, and listening!
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Beth and Lisa discuss the 2026 publishing landscape. From the end of prestige imprints like Dial Books to the flood of AI content, they explore why the industry feels increasingly "disposable" and "noisy."
Key Discussion Points
- The Shift to Content Management: Private equity firms are replacing veteran editors with "content managers" to prioritize franchises over literary prestige.
- The AI Explosion: Of the 4 million books published in 2025, approximately 3.5 million were AI-generated, burying human authors in the Amazon ecosystem.
- The "Trope" Trap: Acquisitions often require specific TikTok hashtags—like "Enemies to Lovers"—to ensure easier, data-driven marketing.
- Indie Press Opportunities: Smaller houses are thriving by focusing on niche audiences, such as middle-aged readers, that the "Big Five" often overlook.
- No More Developmental Edits: Overworked editors no longer have time to "fix" books; manuscripts must be 100% publication-ready before querying.
Tips for Authors
- Build Early: Identify and connect with your audience directly rather than relying on a publishing house to do it for you.
- Polish Fully: Use your community or coaches to ensure your work is flawless before submission, as agents and editors are spread too thin to provide heavy revisions.
Next Guest: Author and 5th-grade teacher Colby Sharp joins the show on April 27th.
Connect with Us
- Submit your "First Pages" for an on-air critique!
- Follow Writers with Wrinkles on Threads (our new crystal ball) and TikTok.
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Hosts Beth McMullen and Lisa Schmid welcome award-winning author Amy Trueblood to discuss a transition many writers face but few discuss: life after parting ways with a literary agent. Amy shares her journey of being on her fourth agent, offering a refreshing look at why changing representation is a natural part of a long-term career.
About the Guest
Amy Trueblood is the author of the acclaimed YA historical novels Nothing But Sky and Across a Broken Shore. Writing as Amy True, she also authored the speculative romance series Clearly Charmed.
Key Discussion Points
- Normalizing Transitions: Agent changes due to retirement, agency closures, or genre shifts are standard industry "ebbs and flows."
- Re-Querying Strategy: Authors returning to the "trenches" should lead with their published credits to signal professional experience to new agents.
- Market Realities: The trio discusses the current high volume of submissions and why authors must exercise increased patience in today’s slower market.
- Overcoming "Baggage": Professionalism and a solid reputation are the best ways to counter fears that changing agents looks negative.
- Creative Evolution: Amy discusses her shift into romance and the experience of working with UK-based publishers.
Actionable Advice
- Be Transparent: Sharing industry struggles helps the wider writing community.
- Leverage Credentials: Use your history to establish immediate credibility.
- Stay Professional: Agents value reliable partners who understand the business.
Links
Amy Trueblood website
Amy Trueblood Insta
Amy Trueblood Threads
Amy Trueblood Bluesky
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In this episode, hosts Beth McMullen and Lisa Schmid talk about a recent publishing controversy sparked on Threads regarding the "legitimacy" of indie authors. They break down the evolving landscape of self-publishing, comparing the financial and creative realities of "indie" versus traditional publishing. Later, they critique the opening pages of a middle-grade mystery titled The Ravenspur Mystery, offering actionable advice on voice, world-building, and establishing character motivation.
Key Discussion Points
The hosts react to a social media thread where an agent reportedly claimed indie writers are not "legit" authors.
- Financial Realities: While the top 10% of traditional authors make significant money, the hosts argue that for most authors, indie publishing offers a better return on value.
- Royalty Gaps: The difference in what an author pockets can be $5 per book.
- The Direct Pipeline: Indie authors have built powerful direct-to-reader relationships through email lists that traditional publishers often struggle to replicate.
- Speed to Market: The traditional pipeline takes about two years, but indie authors are able to release new books every 4 to 6 months to keep their pipeline full.
- Business Savvy: Successful indie authors often earn between $50,000 as a midlist author.
Creative Control & Traditional Pitfalls
- Losing Your Champion: In traditional publishing, an author's original editor may leave, leaving the book in the hands of someone less invested in the project.
- Full Autonomy: Self-publishing allows the author to retain creative control over everything from the editing process to cover design and formatting.
- The "Vanity" Myth: The hosts argue that the old idea of self-publishing as mere "vanity publishing" is dead; it is now a highly viable and sophisticated business route.
First Pages Critique: The Ravenspur Mystery
The hosts review the opening of a middle-grade mystery, praising its "old-school Nancy Drew" feel.
- Strengths: They highlight the strong opening hook that drops readers into the action and a voice that is observational, competent, and slightly wry.
- Critique on Filtering: Beth suggests that descriptive language should be filtered through the protagonist's specific perspective rather than sounding like neutral stage directions.
- Defining the "Want": A key recommendation is to establish the protagonist's internal "want" early on to ensure the reader is fully invested in her journey.
Mentions & Resources
- Books: Going Ghost (Cozy Mystery Series); Behind the Bookcase by Mark Steensland
- Bookstores: Bloodstone Books in Sacramento.
- Upcoming Guest: Award-winning author Amy Trueblood will join the next episode to discuss querying.
- Lisa's New Website!
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In this episode, hosts Beth McMullen and Lisa Schmid welcome back author and literacy advocate Fleur Bradley. The discussion centers on the importance of mysteries in keeping kids reading, the structural "nuts and bolts" of writing for middle grade (MG) versus young adult (YA) audiences, and the release of Bradley’s new craft book designed to help writers navigate the genre.
Get A Clue is available for preorder right now! Releases April 7th.
Key Discussion Points
Addressing the Literacy "Drop-off"
- Statistics show a significant decline in reading for pleasure as children move from 3rd grade into middle school.
- Middle grade and YA mysteries act as a "hook" to keep reluctant readers engaged because of their high stakes and interactive nature.
- Mysteries foster critical thinking and deductive reasoning, making the reader an active participant in the story.
Crafting the MG and YA Mystery
- The "Fair Play" Rule: In a successful mystery, the reader must be given all the clues necessary to solve the crime alongside the protagonist.
- Pacing and Momentum: Unlike contemporary fiction, which may focus heavily on internal character arcs, mysteries require constant external momentum and "beats" to keep the reader turning pages.
- Revision Strategies: Using a structural approach during the revision process can help identify "sagging middles" and ensure clues are properly planted.
Defining the Crime by Age Category
- Middle Grade (MG): * The focus is on the puzzle and the "how."
- While murder can be a plot point, it should be handled with a "cozy" sensibility—minimal gore and focused on the intellectual challenge.
- Young Adult (YA): * Allows for more "grit," darkness, and emotional complexity.
- Authors have more flexibility regarding the types of crimes and the level of peril involved.
Practical Advice for Aspiring Authors
- Writers are encouraged to focus on the "nuts and bolts" of plotting early on.
- Implementing "Your Turn" exercises—taking a specific craft lesson and immediately applying it to a current manuscript—is the most effective way to learn the genre.
- Character voice is paramount; testing a character’s voice through short scenes can determine if they are strong enough to carry a full-length mystery.
Key Takeaways
- Mysteries are essential tools for literacy because they turn reading into a game or puzzle.
- Structure is the backbone of the genre; without a solid plot and well-timed clues, a mystery will lose its audience.
- Understanding the specific expectations of the MG vs. YA market is crucial for publication success.
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Episode Summary In this Season 5 bonus episode, Beth McMullen and Lisa Schmid clear out their "insanely long" laundry list of burning topics. The duo discusses the restorative power of community, starting with Lisa’s wildly successful brewery book swap on Reading Street. They dive into how simple, low-lift events can be the perfect antidote to a dark news cycle and offer tips on how you can start your own.
The conversation moves into the digital space, covering the shift from Twitter to Threads and Blue Sky for monthly Kidlit chats. Finally, Beth and Lisa get serious about industry safety, offering a "buyer beware" guide to writing conferences and professional classes. They share advice on how to vet organizers, protect your investment, and ensure the event aligns with your specific writing goals.
Key Topics Covered
- The Magic of the Book Swap: Why gathering "book people" in a local brewery proved to be exactly what the community needed.
- Low-Lift Event Planning: How to foster connection without the stress of high-stakes organizing.
- The New Digital Frontier: Navigating the monthly Kidlit community chats on Threads and Blue Sky.
- Conference Due Diligence: How to research writing events, check their track records, and avoid losing money on canceled "dream" conferences.
- Defining Your Purpose: Why knowing why you are attending an event (networking vs. craft vs. pitching) is the key to a successful investment.
Resources & Links
- Threads Kidlit Chat: Join the conversation every first Wednesday of the month.
- Blue Sky Kidlit Chat: Join the conversation every first Tuesday of the month.
- Writers With Wrinkles Facebook Group: Join our private community for publishing news and "well-rounded" writing advice. (Note: Please answer the entry questions to join!)
Coming Up Next Week Don’t miss our conversation with author Fleur Bradley, who returns to the show to discuss her brand-new writing craft book focused on the art of Middle Grade mystery!
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In this session, Beth and Lisa critique the opening of "Beyond the Moon," a middle-grade contemporary manuscript. The discussion focuses on refining the "hook," establishing a consistent tone, and leveraging character relationships to engage readers immediately.
Key Critique Points
- Establishing Tone and Mood: The opening combines a "creepy" atmosphere with a protagonist who is "giggling." The hosts recommend aligning these elements so the reader knows exactly what kind of story they are entering—whether it is a mystery, a comedy, or a ghost story.
- The Power of Specificity: Using general adjectives like "spooky" or "cool" tells the reader how to feel rather than showing them. The hosts suggest using specific sensory details—like the smell of old paper or the look of a cracked glass eye on a mannequin—to build a more immersive world.
- Strengthening the "Hook": Modern middle-grade fiction requires a fast start. To capture a young reader's attention, the manuscript needs to move the central conflict and the emotional "hook" to the very first page.
- Show, Don't Tell with Characters: Instead of describing the protagonist as a "second-class citizen" in her family, the hosts suggest showing this through a "snub" from a relative or a specific interaction with her "golden" sister.
- Utilizing Interiority: The character’s internal monologue is a powerful tool for middle-grade authors. Using the protagonist’s private thoughts can help establish a unique voice and build an immediate bond with the reader.
Writing Takeaways
- Read the Current Market: Writers should read 20–25 books published in their genre within the last year to understand modern pacing and descriptive styles.
- Front-Load the Conflict: Don't wait for Chapter Two to introduce the primary tension.
- Focus on Voice: The hosts noted that while structural changes are needed, the author has already cleared the biggest hurdle: creating a character with a clear, relatable voice.
The Waiting Room - private writers Facebook group
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Is your inbox is bursting with slop from bots and scammers? In this "Ask Beth & Lisa" episode, we tackle the explosion of predatory emails—from fake "Silent Book Clubs" to fraudulent Amazon publishing offers—aimed at unsuspecting writers. We discuss why these emails are a weird sign of visibility, how we use the "48-hour rule" to vet opportunities, and why staying connected to the writing community is your best defense. We also go behind the scenes of our high-octane Threads Kidlit Chat and share a sneak peek into why secondary characters often steal the spotlight from your protagonist.
- [00:09:12] Welcome to Season 5: We introduce today's "Ask Beth & Lisa" session and dive straight into why we’re currently losing our faith in humanity.
- [00:10:45] The Threads "Stock Exchange": We recap the chaotic, high-energy success of our first monthly Threads Kidlit Chat and why it felt like being on a trading floor.
- [00:14:48] Secondary Character Magic: We preview our next big craft topic—developing secondary characters that have their own "secret goals" and distinct voices.
- [00:19:20] Spotting the Scams: We break down the specific red flags of current publishing scams and why we view getting these emails as a "badge of honor."
- [00:26:30] The 48-Hour Rule: Our practical advice for authors on how to pause, research, and avoid the high-pressure sales tactics of predatory services.
- [00:30:05] The Writers with Wrinkles Awards: We announce our upcoming year-end awards and how you can get involved.
- [00:33:38] Reflecting on Advice: We look back at our interview with agent Alia Hanna Habib and the importance of a professional author-agent partnership.
Beth McMullen and Lisa Schmid are authors and co-hosts of the Writers with Wrinkles podcast. With years of experience in the kidlit world and the broader publishing industry, they created this show to pull back the curtain on the writing life—wrinkles and all. When they aren't recording, you can find them hosting live community chats on Threads or mentoring writers in their private Facebook group.
Resources Mentioned in this Episode
- Writer Beware: The industry watchdog we recommend for checking any suspicious "offers."
- Facebook Group: The Waiting Room (Our private community for writer support).
- Threads Kidlit Chat: Join us the first Wednesday of every month at 6:00 PM PST.
- Website: Writers with Wrinkles Official Site
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Episode Summary
What does it actually take to get a non-fiction book published in today's market? In this episode, literary agent and author Alia Hanna Habib pulls back the curtain on the publishing industry. Alia shares insights from her new book, Take It From Me, a practical guide for writers looking to navigate the complex journey from idea to bookshelf. Whether you are a debut author or a seasoned writer, this conversation explores the essential elements of a successful non-fiction proposal, the evolving role of a literary agent, and how to stay resilient in a competitive market.
Key Takeaways & Timestamps
- [00:00] Introduction: Meet Alia Hanna Habib, literary agent at The Gernert Company for acclaimed writers like Nicole Hannah-Jones and Clint Smith.
- [02:15] The "Why" Behind the Book: Alia discusses what inspired her to write Take It From Me and why transparency in the publishing process is more important than ever.
- [07:40] Crafting a Winning Proposal: The non-negotiable elements every non-fiction writer needs to include to catch an agent's eye.
- [15:20] Delivery & Acceptance: Insight into Alia’s Substack newsletter and how she uses it to share candid, behind-the-scenes industry advice.
- [22:10] The Author-Agent Partnership: How the relationship works and what authors should realistically expect during the publishing cycle.
- [30:05] Closing Thoughts: Practical steps for writers who are just starting their non-fiction journey.
About the Guest: Alia Hanna Habib
Alia Hanna Habib is a veteran literary agent and the author of Take It From Me: A Practical, Behind-the-Scenes Guide to Getting a Non-Fiction Book Published. Named one of New York Magazine's "most powerful New Yorkers you’ve never heard of," she represents leading voices in journalism, history, and literature. She also writes the popular Substack newsletter, Delivery and Acceptance.
Resources Mentioned in this Episode
- Book: Take It From Me by Alia Hanna Habib (Available January 28th)
- Newsletter: Delivery and Acceptance Substack
- Website: Writers with Wrinkles Official Site
Connect with Us
- Follow the Podcast: Subscribe on your favorite platform so you never miss an episode!
- Ask a Question: Have a question for Beth and Lisa? Send it our way for a future "Ask Beth and Lisa" episode.
- Visit the Blog: Find more show notes and author resources at writerswithwrinkles.net.
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Note: For the most up-to-date information on Erin’s submission status, interests, and availability, visit https://erincaseywestin.com.
Episode Summary
In this episode of Writers With Wrinkles, Beth McMullen and Lisa Schmid talk with Erin Casey Westin, associate agent at Galt & Zacker Literary Agency, about the current kidlit market and how agents evaluate queries and manuscripts. Aspiring authors will gain insight into writing stronger query letters, understanding agent decision-making, and knowing when a manuscript is truly ready to submit.
Guest Bio
Erin Casey Westin is an associate agent at Galt & Zacker Literary Agency, where she represents children’s literature. She is especially drawn to projects with strong voice, vivid worldbuilding, and authentic, thoughtful representation. Erin is passionate about stories that allow every child to see themselves reflected on the page. She is based in Minneapolis, Minnesota.
Key Discussion Points
- The state of the kidlit market
Erin shares what she’s hearing from editors, including cautious optimism around middle grade and continued demand for humorous, character-driven picture books. - How sales track records affect authors
Why prior sales aren’t everything, how agents strategize around them, and when switching publishing houses can make sense. - What makes a query letter stand out
Clear, specific stakes; strong voice; and careful attention to submission guidelines—plus why vague, high-level stakes often fall flat. - Common query mistakes to avoid
Writing queries in first person as the character, misquoting agents, careless personalization, and over-reliance on AI-generated text. - How Erin evaluates manuscripts
The step-by-step mental checklist: polish, voice, character connection, plot and pacing, and whether the story sustains momentum beyond the opening pages. - When a manuscript isn’t ready yet
Why rushing to query out of frustration can hurt your chances, and when putting a book away for a few months can actually help. - What Erin wants to see more of
Middle grade and YA survival stories—especially fresh, modern takes featuring underrepresented protagonists.
Conclusion
This episode reminds writers that strong queries and manuscripts are built on clarity, specificity, and patience. Erin Casey Westin offers a transparent look at how agents read, evaluate, and decide—helping authors approach querying with more confidence and intention.
Links & Resources
- Erin Casey Westin: https://erincaseywestin.com
- Galt & Zacker Literary Agency: https://www.galltzacker.com/
- QueryTracker: https://querytracker.net
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In this bonus season-finale episode of Writers With Wrinkles, Beth McMullen and Lisa Schmid reflect on the end of the season, share a behind-the-scenes podcasting mishap, and dive into a First Pages critique of a cozy fantasy submission, The Village Mage. Along the way, they discuss why first pages are so hard to get right, how too much backstory can stall momentum, and what cozy fantasy readers expect from the very first paragraph.
What We Cover in This Episode
A Season Wrap-Up
- Why this season felt especially long (emotionally and creatively)
- The surprising reach of the podcast, including international listeners
- Why listener messages matter more than download numbers
Behind the Scenes of Podcasting
- A funny (and harmless) upload glitch
- Why multitasking and podcast production don’t always mix
- A reminder that mistakes happen—and they’re fixable
First Pages Critique: The Village Mage
- Why the tea shop setting immediately signals “cozy”
- What works well in the opening voice and atmosphere
- Where the opening leans too heavily on setting and backstory
- Why character emotion needs to come before worldbuilding
- How early signals of magic shape reader expectations
- The importance of “showing” magic instead of naming it outright
First Page Takeaways for Writers
- Less is more on page one
- Avoid stacking backstory and description in large blocks
- Establish genre expectations immediately
- Use specific, character-centered details instead of generic atmosphere
- Trust the reader—don’t explain everything up front
- Consider whether your story actually starts later than you think
A Common Revision Reality
- Why first chapters are often written as “thinking-through” pages
- How hard it is to cut beloved early material
- Why cutting doesn’t mean deleting—just relocating
Key Writing Advice from Beth & Lisa
- Your first page should hook, not explain
- Genre cues matter—especially in fantasy
- Pacing is created through balance: dialogue, action, and selective detail
- If readers don’t know why they should care about the character yet, they won’t care about the world
What’s Coming Next
- A brand-new season with exciting guest interviews
- More First Pages bonus episodes
- Kicking off the new season with literary agent Erin Casey Westin
Have first pages you’d like feedback on?
Visit the Writers With Wrinkles website and submit your opening pages for a chance to be featured in a future episode.
Thank you for listening, sharing, and sticking with us this season. We’ll see you in the new year—until then, happy reading, writing, and listening.
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Query letters make even experienced writers panic—and for good reason. In this special Ask Beth & Lisa episode, we’re joined by author and educator Deborah Crossland for a deep, practical conversation about how to write a strong, effective query letter as we head into the 2026 querying season. Deborah breaks down what query letters are actually for, what agents want to see (and don’t), and how writers can avoid the most common—and most damaging—mistakes.
This episode is packed with actionable advice, mindset shifts, and real-world examples from the querying trenches.
About Our Guest
Deborah Crossland teaches English and mythology at a community college and writes myth-based contemporary YA novels with a feminist lens. Her novel The Quiet Part Out Loud was published in 2023, with the paperback released in 2024. She lives in Northern California and is passionate about making education accessible to all.
Key Topics & Takeaways
What a Query Letter Is (and Isn’t)
- The sole purpose of a query letter is to get an agent to request pages—not to sell the book or explain the entire plot.
- Think invitation, not explanation.
The Anatomy of a Strong Query
- A compelling hook (often 1–2 sentences)
- A focused pitch centered on external stakes
- Brief book details (genre, word count, comps)
- A short, professional author bio
External Stakes Matter More Than You Think
- Writers often lean too hard on internal stakes; agents need to see what’s happening.
- External conflict is what differentiates your book in a crowded field.
- If an agent can’t picture the story visually, the query isn’t doing its job.
Pitch vs. Synopsis
- The query pitch should not include spoilers or the ending.
- The synopsis is where you explain the full story, including how it ends.
- Mixing these up is one of the most common querying mistakes.
How to Personalize Without Being Cringey
- Reference an agent’s manuscript wish list, not their personal life.
- Keep personalization professional, brief, and relevant.
- Treat it like a business introduction—not a social interaction.
Query Etiquette (and Red Flags)
- Always submit queries exactly how the agent requests.
- Never DM agents or email around Query Manager.
- Don’t announce querying rounds or submissions on social media.
- Avoid pitching your unpublished book publicly on Instagram, TikTok, or X.
Author Bios for Debut Writers
- It’s perfectly acceptable to say, “This is my first novel.”
- Writing credentials are optional; strong pages matter more.
- Publishing loves debuts—lack of experience is not a liability.
Series Talk: Less Is More
- Don’t pitch a multi-book series as a debut.
- “Standalone with series potential” is sufficient.
Length & Clarity
- Queries should be concise and tightly written.
- Every word must earn its place.
- If you can’t summarize your story clearly, you may not be ready to query.
Hooks, Loglines, and Netflix Thinking
- Think in terms of loglines or streaming-style descriptions.
- If you can’t explain your story in one sharp sentence, that’s a sign to step back.
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For her encore episode, Lisa chose our interview with Brian Selznick—author and illustrator of some of the most innovative and emotionally powerful books in contemporary publishing. In this conversation, Brian reflects on creative process, patience, and trusting your reader. It was definitely a season four highlight!
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Beth’s Encore Pick: Adria Goetz
For her encore episode, Beth chose our interview with Adria Goetz, Senior Literary Agent at KT Literary. This conversation gets into the real mechanics of querying—what agents actually notice, where writers tend to go wrong, and how to communicate clearly and professionally in a crowded submission landscape. Adria is refreshingly direct about industry realities while remaining deeply encouraging, making this episode especially useful for writers who want practical guidance without false promises. If you’re querying now—or plan to in the future—this is one of those episodes worth bookmarking.
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In this episode of Writers With Wrinkles, Beth and Lisa talk with Mari Kesselring about the realities of today’s publishing landscape—from the misunderstood world of book packagers to navigating an author career after a disappointing debut. Aspiring authors will gain insight into how publishers make acquisition decisions, current trends shaping 2026, and practical strategies to stay resilient in a challenging industry.
Guest Bio
Mari Kesselring is the Publishing Manager of Driven, an imprint at Penguin Random House. With nearly 20 years of experience acquiring, editing, and developing books for readers of all ages, she has worked in both traditional publishing and book packaging. Mari has edited several award-winning titles, including Surrender Your Sons by Adam Sass and Before We Were Blue by E.J. Schwartz. She has served on the board of the Minnesota Book Publishers Roundtable and as a judge for the Minnesota Book Awards.
Key Discussion Points
• What book packagers are and how authors can find work-for-hire opportunities
• How the Driven imprint identifies trends and produces fast-turnaround books
• A candid look at the “Publishing Has a Gambling Problem” conversation
• How editors evaluate authors whose previous books had low sales
• Smart questions to ask before signing your first book deal
• Why middle grade remains a challenging category—and what needs to change
• 2026 publishing trend predictions, including romantasy, cozy escapism, gothic romance, and the rise of “New Adult”
• The increasing importance of chapter books as reading levels shift
• The Penguin Hotline and how readers can request personalized book recommendations
Conclusion
This episode reminds writers that publishing is both art and business, and the most sustainable careers are built on clarity, communication, and adaptability. Whether you’re querying your first book or recovering from a tough debut, Mari’s insights offer practical guidance to help you move forward with confidence.
Mentions
Rage Pages guided journal
We Will Prescribe You a Cat
Penguin Hotline: penguinhotline.com
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In this bonus episode of Writers With Wrinkles, Beth and Lisa critique the first page of a new upper middle grade fantasy novel, Kiki Won’t Be Goddess of the Underworld. If you’re an MG author looking for feedback on opening pages, strong character voice, or how to start your novel in the right place, this episode delivers clear, practical writing advice you can apply immediately.
Beth and Lisa read the full first page aloud and break down what works, what needs tightening, and how to improve pacing and clarity. They discuss why this submission has such a strong middle grade voice, how to avoid confusing world-building when mixing mythology, and what every MG writer should consider when crafting a compelling first chapter. Their critique highlights common pitfalls—like starting the story too early or overloading the reader with details—and offers smart strategies to create tension and hook readers fast.
What listeners will learn:
• How to craft a strong MG narrative voice
• How to clarify world-building in a fantasy opening
• How to identify where your story truly begins
• How to balance detail, pacing, and stakes in the first chapter
• Why breadcrumbing tension keeps young readers engaged
• What emotional dynamics resonate most with middle grade readers
This episode is perfect for writers revising their first pages, querying a middle grade fantasy manuscript, or trying to understand what grabs literary agents and young readers from page one. Beth and Lisa’s feedback will help you sharpen your opening, strengthen your story structure, and build a clearer path into your world.
Links & Resources
Submit your First Pages: writerswithwrinkles.net
Upcoming guest episode (Dec. 8): Mari Kesselring, Publishing Manager
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In this Ask Beth & Lisa episode, Beth and Lisa discuss one of the most active conversations happening among writers: the growing concern about how the publishing industry treats debut and midlist authors. They share personal experiences, hard-won insights, and reflections from the larger writing community. The result is an honest, validating look at how traditional publishing functions today—and what writers can do to protect themselves.
WHAT WE TALK ABOUT
• When Saying “No” to a Book Deal Is the Right Choice
Lisa shares the full story behind a recent offer, why she passed, and what writers should consider before signing anything.
• Debut Pressure and the “Bad Track” Problem
How unrealistic expectations are shaping careers and why many authors feel set up to fail.
• The Industry-Wide Debate About Publishing’s Risk Model
A deeper look at the ongoing discussion about whether the system prioritizes gambles over careers.
• Orphaned Books, Vanishing Support, and Internal Realities
Beth and Lisa unpack how books lose champions and what that means for authors.
• The Rise of Indie, Hybrid, and Small Press Publishing
Why alternative publishing paths are more viable—and more respected—than ever.
• What Might Fix the System (If Anything)
A candid conversation about realistic change and what authors can control right now.
KEY TAKEAWAYS FOR WRITERS
• Trust your instincts—if a deal feels wrong, walking away is valid and healthy.
• Debut performance follows you, even when the outcome is out of your control.
• Many great writers are shifting into indie and hybrid spaces for more agency.
• A long-term writing career rarely looks linear, and that’s okay.
RESOURCES MENTIONED
• Recent industry essays and think pieces addressing systemic publishing issues
• Ongoing discussions across social media and the writing community
• Indie and hybrid publishing options for midlist authors
CONNECT + BONUS MATERIAL
• Please leave a review—it truly helps!
• Subscribe to the Writers With Wrinkles newsletter: WritersWithWrinkles.net
• Check out new bonus episodes, including first-pages critiques and craft extras.
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In this bonus episode of Writers With Wrinkles, Beth and Lisa talk with Adam Rosenbaum about how he blends laugh-out-loud comedy with emotionally meaningful storytelling. Writers will learn how humor lowers a reader’s defenses, why kids crave funny books, and how to handle heavy topics without overwhelming young readers.
Guest Bio
Adam Rosenbaum is the author of The Ghost Rules and the upcoming illustrated series Lawson History Stumbling Through Time (Sourcebooks, 2027). A former sawmill operator and draftsman, he now writes heartfelt, funny middle grade fiction in Nashville, where he lives with his family.
Instagram: @rosenbaumwrites
Key Discussion Points
- Why humor helps kids engage with challenging themes
- How Amblin-era storytelling shaped Adam’s voice
- Writing comedy without talking down to readers
- Letting humor open space for grief, empathy, and emotional truth
- “Backpack books”: the titles kids reread and carry everywhere
- Handling heavy topics with care and clarity
- Adam’s upcoming time-travel adventure series
Conclusion
Adam reminds writers that humor isn’t a lesser art—it’s a bridge. When paired with heart and honesty, it helps kids navigate big feelings while keeping them invested in the story.
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Episode Summary
In this episode of Writers With Wrinkles, Beth and Lisa talk with Alison Romig, Associate Editor at Delacorte Press, about middle grade and YA fiction. Aspiring authors will gain insight into what editors look for in first pages, how to use comps effectively when pitching, and how to navigate the ever-evolving publishing landscape—especially in middle grade.
Guest Bio
Alison Romig is an associate editor at Delacorte Press, where she edits middle grade and young adult fiction. Since joining Delacorte in 2019, she’s worked with New York Times bestselling authors Lindsay Curry and Catherine Quinn, among others. A lifelong fan of horror, she lives in Brooklyn, New York.
Key Discussion Points
- How horror became Alison’s lifelong reading passion—and why the genre is having a major moment
- What makes a first line or first page irresistible to editors
- The hidden power of accurate comps in query letters and what they reveal about your audience
- Common mistakes in submissions (and why most novels start in the wrong place)
- Balancing multiple POVs and keeping the story cohesive
- The editor–author relationship: collaboration vs. prescription in editorial feedback
- How sales track and market “weirdness” factor into acquisitions—especially for middle grade authors
- Alison’s top wishlist item: horror romance, from chilling to cozy
Conclusion
This episode reminds writers that a strong editorial partnership is built on trust, open communication, and shared creative vision. Whether you’re writing middle grade, YA, or exploring new genres, Alison’s insights demystify the submission process and empower authors to craft stories that truly connect with readers—and maybe even give them a good scare.
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Episode Summary
In this Ask Beth & Lisa episode of Writers With Wrinkles, Beth and Lisa dive into first-page critiques, offering real-time feedback on listener-submitted rom-com and middle grade openings. Aspiring authors will gain insight into what makes a first page hook an editor—and what doesn’t.
Guest Bio
No guest this week—just your favorite co-hosts offering expert feedback, writerly wisdom, and a behind-the-scenes look at their creative process.
Key Discussion Points
• Why first pages matter more than ever in today’s publishing landscape
• Rom-Com critique: Bohemian Girl in Ruins – balancing snark and heart, setting tone, and why emotional vulnerability matters
• Craft insights: Using voice, internal conflict, and pacing to create immediate reader engagement
• Middle Grade critique: Liam Calloway and the Cosmic Conspiracy – voice authenticity, anchoring in-scene emotion, and hooking readers fast
• Red flags in opening pages—over-describing, passive language, and missing stakes
• Foreshadowing, genre expectations, and how to revise for connection, not just cleverness
• Sneak peek into Beth and Lisa’s video podcast debut and future live retreat plans
Conclusion
This episode reminds writers that capturing attention on page one is both art and strategy. Whether you're polishing a rom-com or drafting a middle grade novel, grounding your character, tightening the prose, and creating emotional stakes are key to making your manuscript stand out.
Links & Resources
• Submit your first page: https://writerswithwrinkles.net
• Instagram: @writerswithwrinkles
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In this episode of Writers With Wrinkles, Beth and Lisa welcome literary agent Leslie Zampetti for an honest and insightful conversation about what makes a successful author-agent relationship. From red flags to communication tips, aspiring authors will gain clarity on how to choose the right agent and navigate the business side of publishing.
Guest Bio
Leslie Zampetti is a literary agent with Open Book Literary, representing fiction and select nonfiction for children and adults. She champions underrepresented voices, especially disabled writers, and brings deep experience as a former librarian and writer. Connect with Leslie on Instagram and Twitter @LiteraryLeslieZ or visit www.openbooklit.com.
Key Discussion Points
- What agents look for in long-term author relationships
- Red flags and green flags when evaluating literary agents
- What authors should ask before signing with an agent
- How to handle communication breakdowns or ethical concerns
- Why pivoting genres (like from middle grade to cozy mystery) can reignite creativity
- How to know if your manuscript is ready to query
- The value of writing community and peer feedback
- The emotional and professional impact of publishing delays and burnout
Conclusion
This episode is packed with actionable advice for writers navigating the intimidating world of literary representation. Leslie Zampetti pulls back the curtain on the agenting process, giving listeners a real-world look at what agents value, how decisions are made, and how writers can position themselves for long-term success. Whether you're querying your first book or considering a genre shift, this conversation will leave you empowered and informed.
Links & Resources
- Leslie’s website: www.openbooklit.com
- Instagram/Twitter: @LiteraryLeslieZ
- Leslie’s Query Submission Link: QueryTracker - Leslie Zampetti
- Mentioned Resources:
- Association of American Literary Agents (AALA)
- Kate Allen Fox – Scratching the Surface
- Apples & Honey Press
🎧 Subscribe & Connect
Don’t miss future episodes! Subscribe, rate, and review Writers With Wrinkles wherever you listen.
Submit your questions for “Ask Beth and Lisa” at writerswithwrinkles.net or follow us on Instagram @writerswithwrinkles.
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In this Ask Beth & Lisa episode of Writers With Wrinkles, Beth McMullen and Lisa Schmid share updates on their current writing projects and dive into hot publishing topics: copyright oversight, AI-related lawsuits, and the rules of using brand names in fiction. They also unveil details for their new First Page Feedback segment and tease an upcoming Writers With Wrinkles retreat.
Guest Bio
No guest this week—just cohosts and authors Beth McMullen (Mrs. Smith’s Spy School for Girls, Lola Benko Treasure Hunter, Secret of the Storm) and Lisa Schmid (Ollie Oxley and the Ghost), bringing candid advice and insider stories from the world of publishing.
Key Discussion Points
- Writing Updates: Lisa announces she’s pivoting from middle grade to writing cozy mysteries, while Beth wrestles with revisions on her dark psychological thriller. Both share challenges of voice, tense, and confidence in switching genres.
- Copyright Oversight: A cautionary tale about publishers failing to file proper copyrights—why authors must confirm their works are registered, the risks of neglect, and how it connects to ongoing AI lawsuits. Link for checking your copyright status: https://copyright.gov/
- Trademark Use in Fiction: Guidelines for mentioning real brands in your writing. Neutral product mentions (Coke, Nike) are fine, but avoid negative associations that harm a brand’s reputation. Learn when to invent fictional stand-ins and why publishers sometimes over-police brand references.
- First Page Feedback: Writers can now anonymously submit the first 350 words of a work-in-progress (picture book, MG, YA, or adult) for on-air feedback. Focus is on craft, clarity, and hook. Full submission details available at writerswithwrinkles.net
- Upcoming Retreat: Beth and Lisa tease a low-pressure writing retreat designed for community building, creativity, and wine—with hints about the Mark Twain Room at their chosen venue.
- Next Episode Preview: Agent Leslie Zampetti returns to discuss red flags and best practices for author-agent relationships.
Conclusion
This episode blends practical advice with personal storytelling—whether you’re navigating genre shifts, protecting your copyrights, or deciding how to handle trademarks in your manuscript. Don’t forget to check the show notes for the copyright lookup link, submission details for First Page Feedback, and to sign up for the Writers With Wrinkles newsletter at writerswithwrinkles.net
Please rate and review the podcast wherever you listen to help spread the word!
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In this episode of Writers With Wrinkles, hosts Beth McMullen and Lisa Schmid sit down with literary agent Sheyla Knigge of Highline Literary Collective to talk about the art of building strong author-agent relationships. Sheyla shares her journey into publishing, her approach to championing authors, and the key questions every writer should ask before signing with an agent.
Guest Bio:
Sheyla Knigge is a literary agent at Highline Literary Collective with nearly two years of experience representing authors and selling books. A lifelong reader who entered agenting during the pandemic, she quickly proved her eye for marketable stories—discovering Where the Dark Stems Still by A.B. Poranek, which became a six-week New York Times bestseller. She now represents 25 clients across genres and is known for her transparency, passion for storytelling, and dedication to uplifting diverse voices.
Key Discussion Points:
- Origin story: how Sheyla transitioned from project management to slush-pile reader to full-time agent.
- Defining strong partnerships: the importance of open communication, trust, and transparency in the agent-author relationship.
- Red flags in queries: why writing outside one’s lived experience without sensitivity can be problematic, and how Sheyla evaluates submissions.
- Crucial questions for writers: why asking about an agent’s support system and mentorship is essential before signing.
- When to walk away: how gut checks, excitement about revisions, and true alignment matter more than a “big name.”
- Wish list: Sheyla’s dream project—“murderous cheerleaders,” a mashup of Bring It On meets I Know What You Did Last Summer.
Conclusion:
Sheyla Knigge reminds writers that publishing is about partnership, not desperation. Choosing the right agent means prioritizing communication, shared vision, and mutual growth over prestige. Her advice encourages authors to seek relationships that set their creative souls on fire, because the right story—and the right fit—will always find its way to readers.
Mentioned Links:
- Highline Literary Collective
- Sheyla Knigge on Instagram
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Beth and Lisa react in real-time to Taylor Swift’s engagement, connecting it to creativity, storytelling, and the writing life. They also dive into lessons on “first pages,” share a cautionary tale from a tough SCBWI conference, and tease details of their upcoming Writers With Wrinkles retreat.
Guest Bio
No guest this week—this is an Ask Beth & Lisa episode featuring co-hosts Beth McMullen and Lisa Schmid.
Key Discussion Points
- Taylor Swift’s Engagement: Beth and Lisa discuss the news, likening Taylor’s relationship to a rom-com and exploring how her songwriting may evolve now that she’s writing from happiness rather than heartbreak.
- Creativity and Emotion: How emotional upheaval, trauma, and personal history often fuel strong storytelling—and the challenge of sustaining creativity as life stabilizes.
- First Pages: Why first pages matter so much in grabbing readers, agents, and editors; common pitfalls like info-dumping; and how to balance polish without getting stuck rewriting forever.
- SCBWI Conference Flashback: A harsh “first pages” critique session that traumatized attendees serves as a cautionary tale about feedback done without kindness or actionable advice.
- Upcoming Retreat Plans: Beth and Lisa reveal they are scouting a wine-country location for the Writers With Wrinkles Workshop & Wine Retreat planned for Spring 2026. Expect fun, inspiration, and spider-free accommodations.
- The Waiting Game in Publishing: Lisa shares her experience of being on submission with a new middle-grade novel, reminding writers that rejection and silence are part of the process—and that community helps ease the wait.
Conclusion
This episode blends pop culture joy with practical writing wisdom, offering listeners both lighthearted fun and thoughtful reflection on the writing journey. Beth and Lisa invite listeners to sign up for the newsletter, follow on socials, and prepare for upcoming episodes—including an interview with agent Shayla Knigge of Highline Literary Collective dropping September 15.
Mentioned Links
- Writers With Wrinkles Website
- Think your first page is wrinkle-free? Send us up to 350 words—anonymously, of course—and find out. [full details here]
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In this episode of Writers With Wrinkles, we dive into the world of self-publishing adult fiction. Authors Barb Hopkins and Kelly Garcia share how they turned frustration with traditional publishing into indie success, building their paranormal mystery series Chronicles of a Cursed Midlife from the ground up while navigating the challenges of co-authoring and marketing.
Guest Bios:
- Barb Hopkins – A former marketing director and freelance writer turned hybrid author, Barb writes middle grade fiction and co-authors the adult Chronicles of a Cursed Midlife series. Her dual path of querying middle grade while self-publishing adult fiction demonstrates persistence and versatility.
- Kelly Garcia – Known for her humorous, feel-good paranormal fiction, Kelly co-authors the Chronicles of a Cursed Midlife series. A veteran of the querying trenches, she now thrives in indie publishing, celebrating magical chaos, found family, and creative freedom.
Key Discussion Points:
- Why Barb and Kelly chose self-publishing for their adult series.
- The inspiration behind Chronicles of a Cursed Midlife and its themes of midlife empowerment, friendship, and second chances.
- The biggest challenges in indie publishing: editing, design, distribution, and discoverability.
- Essential tools and resources: Amazon KDP, Vellum, Canva, Publisher Rocket, Bowker, and 20BooksTo50K.
- How co-authoring adds both complexity and creative energy.
- Marketing lessons from Facebook takeovers, in-person events, and building an online community.
- Barb’s dual journey: querying middle grade while finding success in adult self-publishing.
Conclusion:
Barb and Kelly’s story shows that self-publishing isn’t just a backup plan—it’s a thriving path to creative control and connection with readers. Their success with adult fiction proves that persistence, community, and smart strategy can empower authors to take charge of their careers, even while pursuing traditional goals in other genres.
Links/Info Mentioned:
- From the Mixed-Up Files…of Middle-Grade Authors: https://fromthemixedupfiles.com
- Arcane Covers by Karen Dimmick – Cover design
- Publisher Rocket – Keyword research tool
- Bowker – ISBN provider
- Kindlepreneur – Self-publishing resource
- 20BooksTo50K Facebook Group – Indie author community
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Episode Summary:
In this Ask B&L episode, Lisa interviews Beth about her work as a book coach and what aspiring authors need to know before querying. Beth shares how she supports writers through revisions, builds their confidence, and helps them reach submission-ready status.
Guest Bio:
Beth McMullen is the author of multiple middle grade novels and a seasoned book coach who works primarily with middle grade writers. Drawing from her own experience in traditional publishing, Beth helps writers finish manuscripts, tackle revisions, and prepare their work for submission with a focus on structure, accountability, and emotional support.
Key Discussion Points:
- What is a book coach? Beth explains how a coach differs from an editor or critique group and why coaching provides actionable, structured feedback.
- Common issues writers face: From missing stakes to flat pacing or starting in the wrong place, Beth identifies recurring manuscript problems and how they’re fixable.
- The first step in coaching: A conversation to define the writer’s goals—whether it’s finishing a book or preparing to query.
- The emotional side of writing: Writers often need support and affirmation; coaching includes “30% therapy.”
- Breakthrough moments: Writers go from feeling overwhelmed to finding clarity and confidence with a clear roadmap.
- Advice for stuck writers: Write a logline. If you can’t summarize your story in one sentence, you may not be clear on it yourself.
- Target audience: Beth currently works mostly with middle grade fiction writers, avoiding genres like hardcore sci-fi or nonfiction.
Conclusion:
Book coaching bridges the gap between idea and execution, offering writers not only professional guidance but also much-needed support in a solitary craft. Beth’s kind, structured, and honest approach empowers writers to believe in their work and themselves. Aspiring authors—especially those ready to query—can benefit immensely from this episode’s insights.
Mentioned Links:
- Newsletter & Cheat Sheets: www.writerswithwrinkles.net
- Beth’s Book Coaching Services: bethmcmullenbooks.com
- Upcoming Guest: Barb Hopkins on self-publishing (airing August 18)
- Instagram: @bethmcmullenbooks
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Episode Summary:
In this episode of Writers With Wrinkles, literary agent and author Joyce Sweeney joins Beth and Lisa to explore the challenges and opportunities in today’s publishing landscape. With decades of experience, Joyce shares invaluable advice for writers on market trends, querying, agent relationships, and staying resilient in a tough industry.
Guest Bio:
Joyce Sweeney is the Director of KidLit at The Seymour Agency, where they’ve worked as a literary agent for five years. Prior to agenting, Joyce spent decades as a writing coach, developmental editor, and author of 14 young adult novels and two poetry collections. With a sharp eye for story and deep empathy for authors, Joyce brings a unique blend of industry knowledge and creative passion to every project.
Key Discussion Points:
- Publishing Trends: Middle grade remains tough but not impossible; picture books are more stable, and there's growing interest in unique formats and themes like verse novels and New Age topics.
- Agenting Insights: The importance of concept and hook in a query far outweighs just beautiful prose; originality and marketability are key.
- AI in Publishing: Joyce sees no real threat from AI to traditional publishing, emphasizing that creativity, emotion, and lived experience can’t be replicated by machines.
- Advice for Writers: Write what you love, not what’s trending; publishing is cyclical and unpredictable. Persistence and a strong concept will eventually open doors.
- Red Flags & Green Flags in Queries: Be clear about your genre and word count; know your audience; don’t blindly pitch without researching agents.
- When to Walk Away: A lack of communication, refusal to share submission information, or pushing you toward predatory publishers are serious warning signs.
- What Joyce is Looking For: Unique YA stories, New Age themes in picture books (like astrology and pagan holidays), and anything that surprises her.
Conclusion:
Joyce Sweeney brings refreshing honesty and deep insight into the challenges of KidLit and the wider publishing industry. Her advice emphasizes the importance of a standout concept, a resilient mindset, and choosing the right agent-client match. Writers are encouraged to stay the course, believe in their work, and always lead with heart.
Mentioned Links:
- Podcast blog & notes: https://writerswithwrinkles.net
- The Seymour Agency: https://theseymouragency.com
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🎙️ Episode Summary:
In this bonus episode, Beth McMullen switches roles from co-host to guest to explore how to write compelling action and adventure for middle grade readers. Originally recorded for Sara Gentry's KidLit Summer Camp, this conversation is packed with practical tips and emotional insight for writers crafting page-turning stories for kids.
👩💼 Guest Bio:
Beth McMullen is the author of ten traditionally published novels, including the Mrs. Smith's Spy School for Girls and Secret of the Storm series. She is also the co-host of the Writers With Wrinkles podcast, founder of the You Can Write a Book Substack, and a certified book coach through Author Accelerator. With over 20 years in the publishing industry, Beth helps writers push past messy middles, plot holes, and self-doubt to write stories that matter.
💡 Key Discussion Points:
- Why action sequences are so vital in middle grade and how to compete with the fast-paced media kids consume.
- The importance of giving child protagonists agency—making decisions, facing consequences, and driving the story forward.
- Balancing high-octane action with emotional tension: why stakes don't always have to involve explosions.
- Removing adults from the foreground to allow young characters to lead the narrative.
- Tips for writing character-driven emotional arcs, even for pantsers.
- How to use tools like “The 7 Keys to Writing Stories Kids Can’t Put Down” to troubleshoot plot and pacing issues.
- Why voice, surprise, and emotional truth are non-negotiable for successful middle grade.
🔚 Conclusion:
Writing action for middle grade readers means understanding the emotional world of kids and blending it with immersive, high-energy storytelling. Whether you're plotting an epic fantasy or writing a fast-paced mystery, Beth’s insight offers both inspiration and actionable guidance.
🔗 Mentioned Links:
- Beth’s website: bethmcmullenbooks.com
- Substack: You Can Write a Book
- Free resource: The 7 Keys to Writing Stories Kids Can’t Put Down
- Visit solutionsforwriters.com to learn more about Sara Gentry's book coaching services and KidLit Summer Camp
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In this Ask Beth & Lisa episode, the hosts dive into the complex topic of using artificial intelligence as a writing tool. They share personal anecdotes, practical strategies, and ethical considerations for writers navigating AI in the creative process.
Key Discussion Points:
- Recent Highlights: Beth and Lisa reference two previous episodes with editor Joel Brigham and encourage listeners to grab the accompanying cheat sheets at writerswithwrinkles.net by signing up for the newsletter.
- AI as a Writing Tool: The duo clarifies that AI should not be used as a ghostwriter but can serve as an effective assistant in the writing process.
- Ethical Use Cases:
- Organizing messy revision notes into actionable workflows.
- Generating setting-specific sensory details.
- Providing era-specific context for historical scenes.
- Verifying world-building consistency in fantasy and speculative fiction.
- Cautionary Insights:
- AI-generated writing often lacks voice and over-explains.
- Always fact-check AI outputs, especially historical or technical information.
- Be wary of labeling files poorly—both hosts share horror stories of lost drafts and mismatched versions.
- Creative Challenges:
- Writing and revising across genres.
- Navigating tech hiccups and summer distractions.
- Rediscovering joy in storytelling through character and genre shifts.
Conclusion:
Beth and Lisa emphasize that AI, when used ethically and strategically, can streamline parts of the writing process without replacing creativity. They encourage listeners to share their own AI usage stories and remind writers to trust their instincts—especially when choosing literary agents. Don’t forget to check out the private Facebook group, The Waiting Room, for peer support and upcoming questions for literary agent Leslie Zampetti’s September episode.
Mentioned Links:
- Cheat Sheets: writerswithwrinkles.net
- Facebook Group: The Waiting Room (via Writers With Wrinkles community)
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In this information-packed episode, editor Joel Brigham returns to dive deep into the art of revision, breaking down the essential steps writers must take to polish their manuscripts. From identifying critical story beats to understanding character agency and narrative pacing, Joel offers a masterclass in transforming a draft into a submission-ready novel.
Guest Bio:
Joel Brigham is a professional editor, former NBA journalist, and passionate advocate for emerging authors. With over a decade of editorial experience and a background in teaching, Joel brings deep insight into storytelling structure, character development, and the realities of the publishing industry.
Key Discussion Points:
- Revision in Phases: Joel shares his six-phase editing approach, starting with foundational story beats like the inciting incident, midpoint turn, and “all hope is lost” moment.
- Character Development: Tips on ensuring all characters—not just the protagonist—have motivation, depth, and personal arcs.
- Tension & Stakes: Why every chapter must carry tension and what makes stakes compelling enough to hook readers and agents.
- Checklist for Self-Editing: Joel outlines critical revision questions including character agency, dialogue realism, narrative voice consistency, appropriate word count, readability scores, and genre expectations.
- Avoiding Common Pitfalls: Advice on preventing rushed endings, fixing saggy middles, and using tools like the “but/therefore” method for coherent structure.
- Voice Development: Joel explains why voice can’t be forced and shares strategies to cultivate it through imitation, feedback, and cross-genre writing.
- Final Polish Tips: Encouragement to revise in focused passes, gather outside feedback, and avoid the impatience that leads to premature querying.
Conclusion:
Joel Brigham offers writers not only a clear, step-by-step path through revision, but also the inspiration to stick with it. With practical advice and a refreshing blend of honesty and encouragement, this episode is essential listening for anyone preparing to submit their manuscript.
Mentioned Links:
- for episode cheat sheets, sign up for the Writers With Wrinkles newsletter
🎧 Tune in and share with the writer in your life who’s ready to revise with purpose and confidence.
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Beth and Lisa are joined by editor and author Joel Brigham to discuss the messy, magical process of drafting. Joel shares practical advice to help writers overcome perfectionism and keep their momentum through the challenging early stages of a manuscript.
Guest Bio:
Joel Brigham is a seasoned developmental editor and founder of Brigham Editorial. With over 21 years of experience as an English teacher, Joel also mentors authors through RevPit, an online writing community focused on providing free editorial feedback. He is a former Pitch Wars mentor and the author of multiple novels, with a passion for coaching writers through their creative blocks.
Key Discussion Points:
- The core purpose of a first draft: “Words on the page—period.”
- Avoiding perfectionism and maintaining momentum in early writing stages.
- The power of psychology in writing: Zeigarnik effect, goal gradient effect, and the commitment and consistency principle.
- Common drafting mistakes: cliché openings, info dumping, lack of conflict, and undefined characters.
- How to start a novel and what elements (plot, character, theme, world) might help, especially across genres.
- Discovery writing vs. plotting: how to use strategic check-ins every 15-20k words to stay on course.
- The importance of not editing too early and letting bad writing exist temporarily.
- Encouragement for writers to embrace their individual process while building systems to reduce overwhelm.
Conclusion:
Joel Brigham offers not just craft knowledge, but a motivational boost for every writer wrestling with doubt or perfectionism. Whether you're a plotter or discovery writer, Joel’s advice focuses on giving yourself grace, building momentum, and ultimately, finishing that draft.
Mentioned Links:
- Sign up for the Writers With Wrinkles newsletter for episode cheat sheets: https://writerswithwrinkles.net
Listeners are encouraged to visit the site for more on Joel and to submit questions for future episodes.
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Episode Summary:
In this engaging Ask B&L episode, Beth McMullen and Lisa Schmid tackle two of the most commonly asked questions from aspiring authors: what is voice in writing and how do you navigate the editorial process? With personal anecdotes, practical advice, and a whole lot of writerly camaraderie, Beth and Lisa break down complex concepts with clarity and humor.
Key Discussion Points:
- Catching Up: Beth shares travel stories from Copenhagen and Amsterdam, including a must-visit bakery (Anderson Bakery), while Lisa talks about her current writing phase and genre pivot.
- What Is Voice?: Beth uses a brilliant analogy inspired by the Van Gogh Museum to define voice as an evolution of style that emerges through experimentation and imitation, becoming uniquely yours over time. Lisa highlights how voice is infused with the author’s personality and reflects their authentic self.
- Understanding the Editorial Process:
- Advice on handling editorial letters—read, reflect, highlight, and revisit.
- The importance of setting ego aside and seeing editors as collaborators.
- When and how to push back while preserving your voice.
- Personal experiences with accepting or negotiating changes during revisions.
- Encouragement to not feel overwhelmed and to treat edits as opportunities for growth.
Conclusion:
Beth and Lisa offer real, grounded insight that demystifies the writing and editing journey for emerging authors. Whether you’re figuring out your voice or working through your first editorial letter, this episode is a warm, insightful companion that reminds you—you’re not alone.
Mentioned Links:
- Visit: writerswithwrinkles.net
- Bakery Mention: Andersen Bakery (Copenhagen)
- Upcoming Guest on June 9: Editor Joel Brigham on fast drafting
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In this encore edition, Beth and Lisa chat with Ivan Taurisano, Associate Editor at Abrams, who specializes in children's literature and intellectual properties. Ivan shares insider tips on creating standout submissions, navigating the acquisition process, and the evolving trends in middle-grade publishing.
Guest Bio
Ivan Taurisano is an Associate Editor at Abrams, specializing in children's licenses and intellectual property. His work includes novelty books, board books, graphic novels, and select MG and YA titles. He has collaborated on several successful series and brands, such as How to Catch, Little Heroes, Big Hearts, Sesame Street, Disney, Tokidoki, and Pokémon. His guiding principle is that a child whose life is transformed by a book is one step closer to becoming an adult who will change the world.
Key Discussion Points
- Submission Essentials: Ivan emphasizes the importance of polished manuscripts, strategic research, and personalized query letters. Authors should highlight why their work fits the editor’s preferences and demonstrate professionalism to make a strong first impression.
- Acquisition Process: Ivan demystifies the journey of a manuscript from editorial meetings to marketing evaluations, highlighting what makes or breaks a deal.
- Middle-Grade Trends: The market is leaning toward shorter, action-packed, and visually engaging middle-grade books. Writers are encouraged to innovate and break traditional molds to captivate readers.
- Social Media & Track Records: While a social media platform isn’t a dealbreaker, it’s a bonus for YA and middle-grade authors. Past sales numbers of debut books are discussed critically during acquisitions, with publishers investigating contributing factors to performance.
- Opportunities in Chapter Books: There’s room for new voices in character-driven chapter books, with series potential being a key factor for success.
Conclusion
This episode provides actionable advice for aspiring authors to refine their submissions and navigate publishing with confidence. Ivan’s insights, grounded in industry expertise, offer a roadmap for writers seeking to make an impact in children’s literature.
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Episode Summary:
In this inspiring episode, Beth and Lisa welcome bestselling author and illustrator Brian Selznick to discuss his latest YA novel Run Away With Me. Brian shares how personal history, queer identity, and the haunting beauty of an empty Rome during the pandemic shaped this deeply moving love story.
Guest Bio:
Brian Selznick is the Caldecott Medal-winning author of The Invention of Hugo Cabret, which became Martin Scorsese's Oscar-winning film Hugo. His innovative storytelling style blends narrative and illustration, captivating readers of all ages. Selznick’s books have sold millions of copies, been translated into over 35 languages, and include the bestsellers Wonderstruck and The Marvels. He lives in Brooklyn and La Jolla with his husband, Dr. David Serlin.
Key Discussion Points:
- Origins of Run Away With Me: Inspired by time spent in a deserted Rome during the pandemic and Brian’s husband's Rome Prize fellowship.
- Setting the Story in 1986: Chosen for its pre-digital intimacy, connection to Fellini's Intervista, and poignant resonance with the emerging AIDS crisis.
- YA Shift: This novel marks a shift to older characters and more intimate, emotional themes, including first love and sexual awakening.
- Illustration vs. Text: Originally intended as a text-only novel, illustrations were later added to immerse readers in Rome and enhance storytelling rhythmically.
- Building Empathy: Through vulnerability and layered character flaws, Brian explores how readers connect with characters even through their mistakes.
- Worldbuilding & Pacing: Brian discusses how his illustrations function as visual memory aids, reducing exposition and preserving narrative flow.
- Film Adaptation Insight: Brian details how Hugo was faithfully adapted by Martin Scorsese, who honored the visual storytelling of the book.
Conclusion:
Brian Selznick offers a masterclass in layered storytelling, blending history, personal experience, and imaginative worldbuilding. Run Away With Me is a love letter to young queer love, art, and the haunting beauty of solitude and discovery. This episode is a must-listen for aspiring authors and fans of emotionally resonant fiction.
Mentioned Links:
- Run Away With Me by Brian Selznick: Publisher's Page
- Brian Selznick's website
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Beth and Lisa sit down with Carey Blankenship-Kramer, literary agent and author of Ghost Scout's Honor, to talk all things publishing—from crafting irresistible query letters to the harsh realities of publishing economics. Carey shares heartfelt insights on the future of middle grade, the evolving horror genre, and what truly makes her heart sing when reading submissions.
Guest Bio:
Carey Blankenship-Kramer is a literary agent and author whose debut novel Ghost Scout's Honor (Scholastic, April 2025) is a queer, neurodiverse middle grade horror adventure set in ghost-filled Savannah. Since becoming an agent in 2023, Carey has championed authors across genres, prioritizing marginalized voices. When not agenting or writing, she enjoys tennis, video games, candy, and time with her "small zoo" of pets.
Key Discussion Points:
- About Ghost Scout's Honor: A spooky, empowering middle grade debut featuring determined protagonist Evie and her ghostly adventures. Carey combines horror, Southern charm, and inclusivity.
- Query Letter Insights: Carey emphasizes the importance of a pitch that hooks instantly. Personal stakes, clear comps, and authentic vibes matter most to her.
- The State of Middle Grade Publishing: Attention spans are down, publishers aren't effectively reaching younger audiences, and shorter, snappier stories are performing better.
- Industry Challenges: The impact of tariffs, the collapse of Albert Whitman, and the increasing corporatization of publishing are creating financial and emotional challenges for authors.
- Trends to Watch: Horror and dystopian genres are rising. Carey sees these as reflections of readers processing real-world fears in safe, fictional environments.
- What Makes Carey’s Heart Sing: Emotional depth layered within horror or fantasy. She seeks stories that offer both escapism and human connection.
Conclusion:
This candid conversation offers aspiring authors vital knowledge straight from someone who’s both querying and reading slush piles. Carey’s advice is invaluable for writers like Luna—aspiring novelists navigating today’s unpredictable publishing world. From query do’s and don’ts to genre shifts and emotional resilience, this episode is a must-listen.
Mentioned Links:
- Carey's Debut: Ghost Scout's Honor (Scholastic, April 2025)
- Writers With Wrinkles blog
Submit questions for future episodes via Writers With Wrinkles social media, through the 'send us a text' link above or through the podcast blog.
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🎙️ Episode Summary:
In this special "Ask Beth & Lisa" episode of Writers With Wrinkles, Beth McMullen and Lisa Schmid explore the emotional challenges of the current creative climate and share their personal writing origin stories to inspire struggling writers. With humor, heart, and a dash of wine, they offer a candid look at what first ignited their passion to write and how to reconnect with that spark during tough times.
🔑 Key Discussion Points:
- Mental health in writing: Beth and Lisa acknowledge the current collective sense of despair among creatives and share strategies for managing anxiety and rediscovering joy in the craft.
- Funny bookstore tales: Lisa recounts stealthily rearranging books at Barnes & Noble and longing for the perfect shelf placement. Beth shares her “book flipping” technique and the invisible sensor that alerts staff to authors in the wild.
- Wine and writing therapy: Lisa hilariously shares her obsession with Chateau Ste. Michelle Light Chardonnay and the great unboxing event of her case delivery.
- Unboxing video spoofing: The duo dives into the unspoken pressure behind book unboxings and how performative moments can feel inauthentic.
- Their origin stories:
- Lisa’s journey began after closing down a beloved but overwhelming nonprofit. Her pivot to writing children’s books was rooted in wanting to continue making a difference for kids.
- Beth’s motivation came from pure spite—a competitive spark after seeing a peer publish a book drove her to finish her first manuscript.
- Message to writers: Return to the emotional core that first pushed you to write. That original spark can reignite your current writing practice.
🔚 Conclusion:
In a time when many writers feel stalled or discouraged, Beth and Lisa remind us that reconnecting with your personal "why" can reignite purpose and momentum. Join the community in their private Facebook group, The Waiting Room: Therapy for Writers, for support and solidarity.
🔗 Mentioned Links:
- Join the Facebook group: The Waiting Room: Therapy for Writers
- Visit: writerswithwrinkles.net
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Episode Summary:
In this candid "Ask B&L" episode, Beth and Lisa answer a listener question about agent transparency, diving into the red flags of a rocky publishing relationship. They also unpack book coaching, revising habits, and finding sanity as a writer in uncertain times.
Guest Bio:
No guest this episode – just your favorite duo, Beth McMullen and Lisa Schmid, authors and co-hosts of Writers With Wrinkles.
Key Discussion Points:
- The value of disconnecting: Beth shares her experience of mentally unplugging and how it relates to mindfulness and creativity.
- Book coaching launch: Beth introduces her new professional book coaching services and website BethMcMullenBooks.com, highlighting offerings like manuscript feedback and query letter Quick Wins.
- Listener Q&A: A writer asks if it's normal for an agent to never share a submission list—spoiler: it's not. Beth and Lisa stress the importance of communication, red flag awareness, and using organizations like SCBWI and Authors Guild for support.
- Agent dynamics: The hosts discuss how writers can (and should) advocate for themselves and treat agent relationships as business partnerships.
- Writing advice: The age-old “edit-as-you-go” dilemma resurfaces, with encouragement to push through messy first drafts instead of polishing prematurely.
- Podcast behind-the-scenes: From sunglasses in their logo to sound editing quirks, Beth and Lisa reflect on their origin story and podcast process.
- Podcast love: Lisa shouts out her appearance on Middle Grade Matters with Shannon Ballam—praised for her smooth delivery and sharp interviews. Listen here: Middle Grade Matters (link to be added in show notes).
Conclusion:
From industry tips to emotional honesty, this episode is a warm, funny, and information-packed check-in with Beth and Lisa. Writers like Luna—aspiring, overwhelmed, and determined—will find comfort and guidance in their down-to-earth advice and hard-won experience. Don’t forget to visit WritersWithWrinkles.net to support the show, explore past episodes, and join the writing community.
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PLEASE NOTE: this episode was orignally meant to drop on March 31st but we moved it up so listeners can take advantage of The Little Press's upcoming pitch party. Listen to the full episode for details.
Episode Summary
In this episode, Beth and Lisa chat with Michele McAvoy, award-winning children’s book author, publisher, and founder of The Little Press. Michele shares her journey from self-published author to small press publisher, offering insight into the publishing industry, small press advantages, and advice for aspiring authors navigating the competitive world of children's books.
Guest Bio
Michele McAvoy is an attorney-turned-author and the founder of The Little Press, an independent publisher dedicated to discovering new voices in children's literature. She has written multiple award-winning books, including Willow the Werewolf, Cookie and Milk, and The Gorilla Picked Me. Michele is also an editor and hosts the podcast My Messy Muse, where she discusses the realities of the publishing world.
Key Discussion Points
- Starting The Little Press: Michele launched her publishing company in 2020 during the pandemic, focusing on debut and early-career authors.
- Challenges of Running a Small Press: From financial margins to educating authors about industry realities, Michele shares the behind-the-scenes struggles and rewards of publishing.
- Breaking into Publishing: Advice for writers on overcoming industry gatekeepers and why small presses can be a great path to publication.
- The Writing Process: Michele’s unconventional approach, including writing books on her phone at the beach, and why first drafts should never be "precious."
- Upcoming Opportunities: The Little Press is hosting a Twitter pitch event (#TLPpitch on March 20th), offering authors a chance to submit their work.
Conclusion
Michele McAvoy’s success story highlights the resilience and creativity required in the publishing industry. Whether you're an aspiring author or considering a small press for your work, this episode is full of valuable insights on making publishing dreams a reality.
Mentioned Links
🔗 Michele McAvoy’s website: michelemcavoy.com
🔗 The Little Press: littlepresspublishing.com
🔗 Writers With Wrinkles: writerswithwrinkles.net
📢 Don’t miss Beth and Lisa’s next Ask Us Anything episode on March 31st! Submit your questions via social media or through the podcast notes.
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In this episode of Writers with Wrinkles, Beth McMullen and Lisa Schmid talk with Meg Gaertner, managing editor of fiction at North Star Editions. Meg shares insights into middle grade and young adult publishing, the acquisitions process, and trends shaping the industry.
Guest Bio
Meg Gaertner is the managing editor of fiction at North Star Editions, acquiring titles for the Jolly Fish Press and Flux imprints. She is passionate about publishing books that expand perspectives, increase representation, and tackle complex topics with nuance. Her authors have received starred reviews, won awards, and made a lasting impact on young readers.
Key Discussion Points
- Middle Grade Market Trends: The growing demand for books targeting 13- to 15-year-old readers, the dominance of graphic novels, and the push for shorter middle grade books to compete with screen time.
- YA Market Trends: The continued popularity of "romantasy," the possible resurgence of dystopian fiction, and the enduring appeal of thrillers.
- The Acquisition Process: A deep dive into how North Star Editions evaluates and selects books, from submission to final approval.
- The Importance of Query Letters: Meg emphasizes the value of a well-structured query and how it signals an author's professionalism and commitment.
- Marketing & Author Collaboration: Why North Star Editions treats every book as a lead title and how an author's engagement can impact promotional support.
- Advice for Writers: “Less is more”—Meg encourages authors to streamline their writing to enhance pacing and emotional impact.
Conclusion
Meg Gaertner provides a rare behind-the-scenes look at the publishing process, offering invaluable advice for aspiring and experienced authors. From market trends to acquisition strategies, her insights help demystify the path to publication.
Mentioned Links
- Learn more about North Star Editions: northstareditions.com
- Connect with Writers with Wrinkles: writerswithwrinkles.net
- Follow Beth McMullen and Lisa Schmid on social media for updates and Q&A opportunities.
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In this Ask Beth & Lisa episode, the hosts tackle a common writer struggle: getting out of a creative rut. They share personal experiences, actionable strategies, and insights from working with critique partners and beta readers to reignite motivation and improve writing.
Key Discussion Points
- Recognizing a Writing Rut: How to identify when you’re stuck in autopilot and losing creative energy.
- Micro Goals for Progress: Beth shares her strategy of setting small, achievable goals like 500-word daily targets to push through blocks.
- Shaking Up Routine: The benefits of changing writing environments, traveling, or even dictating chapters while walking to boost creativity.
- The Power of Beta Readers & New Critique Partners: Lisa explains how fresh eyes on her manuscript helped her identify repetitive writing habits and refine her storytelling.
- Finding the Right Critique Group: The importance of choosing partners whose work aligns with your writing style and elevates your craft.
- Using The Waiting Room for Writers: How their private Facebook group helps authors connect, find critique partners, and navigate publishing challenges.
Conclusion
Breaking out of a writing rut requires intentional shifts—whether through setting small goals, changing routines, or seeking new perspectives. The key is to stay engaged, experiment with different methods, and remember that creative slumps are temporary.
Mentioned Links
- Join The Waiting Room (Private Facebook Group for Writers)
- Writers With Wrinkles Website: writerswithwrinkles.net
Beth & Lisa return on March 3rd with guest Meg Gaertner, Managing Editor at Flux and Jollyfish Press, to discuss editorial insights. Don’t forget to subscribe, follow, and share the podcast!
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In this episode of Writers With Wrinkles, we welcome Adria Goetz, a Senior Literary Agent at KT Literary, to discuss the dos and don’ts of querying, how to stand out in a crowded submission pile, and navigating industry challenges like editor transitions. Aspiring authors will gain valuable insights into crafting compelling pitches, building resilience, and staying attuned to market trends.
Guest Bio
Adria Goetz is a Senior Literary Agent and Illustration Coordinator at KT Literary, specializing in picture books, middle grade, graphic novels, and adult fiction. She has represented numerous bestsellers, including Millie Fleur's Poison Garden and The Crescent Moon Tea Room. A fan of whimsy and heartfelt storytelling, Adria enjoys re-watching Gilmore Girls and dreaming of life in a mossy stone cottage.
Key Discussion Points
- The Querying Process: Adria shares tips on crafting warm, professional, and specific query letters, emphasizing how to make an immediate impression on literary agents.
- Navigating Rejections: Advice on interpreting agent feedback and why “near misses” are a good sign of progress for aspiring writers.
- Industry Insights: Adria discusses the realities of agent submissions, the competitiveness of the market, and strategies for writers facing challenges like editor transitions or poor past book sales.
- Market Trends for 2025: The rise of genre mashups, cozy fantasy, romanticcy, and magical speculative stories, as well as opportunities in neglected spaces like stories featuring 14–15-year-old protagonists.
- Building Resilience: Why persistence, adaptability, and proactive marketing are essential for long-term success in publishing.
Conclusion
Adria offers encouraging and practical advice for writers striving to break into publishing. From perfecting the query letter to navigating industry challenges, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help writers stay motivated and informed on their journey to publication.
Mentioned Links
- Learn more about Adria Goetz: KT Literary
- The Mixed-Up Files of Middle-Grade Authors (Cover reveal for The Library of Curiosities)
- Podcast blog and notes: Writers With Wrinkles
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In this Ask Beth & Lisa episode, the hosts tackle listener questions about navigating the challenges of writing and publishing, including understanding agent rejections and crafting strong hooks. They also discuss personal writing goals and the importance of building supportive writer communities.
Key Discussion Points
- New Year's Writing Resolutions:
- Beth aims to quit Amazon shopping and regain control over external influences.
- Lisa focuses on rediscovering joy in writing after a challenging year in publishing.
- Understanding Agent Rejections:
- "No editorial vision" often means agents can't see how a manuscript aligns with their list or market goals.
- A polished manuscript and a clear understanding of its market positioning are critical for agent interest.
- Crafting a Strong Commercial Hook:
- A book’s hook must be compelling and marketable, summed up in a concise logline.
- Before starting a manuscript, writers should identify the core premise and target audience.
- Writer Community Support:
- Beth and Lisa highlight the value of their private Facebook group, "The Waiting Room," as a resource for writers to ask questions, share experiences, and find encouragement.
- Podcast Updates:
- Plans to incorporate video clips from recordings into social media to enhance listener engagement.
- Upcoming episodes with industry guests, including agents and editors.
Conclusion
Beth and Lisa encourage writers to embrace community support, focus on market readiness, and maintain resilience in the face of rejection. They invite listeners to submit questions, join the Facebook group, and support the podcast by subscribing and sharing.
Mentioned Links
- The Waiting Room (Facebook Group): A private space for writers at all levels to connect and seek guidance.
- Website: WritersWithWrinkles.net
Join the next episode featuring Agent Adria Goetz on February 3rd!
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Please Note: Guest Adria Gaetz episode will drop on February 3rd, not January 20th.
In the premier episode of Season 4, Beth and Lisa chat with Ivan Taurisano, Associate Editor at Abrams, who specializes in children's literature and intellectual properties. Ivan shares insider tips on creating standout submissions, navigating the acquisition process, and the evolving trends in middle-grade publishing.
Guest Bio
Ivan Taurisano is an Associate Editor at Abrams, specializing in children's licenses and intellectual property. His work includes novelty books, board books, graphic novels, and select MG and YA titles. He has collaborated on several successful series and brands, such as How to Catch, Little Heroes, Big Hearts, Sesame Street, Disney, Tokidoki, and Pokémon. His guiding principle is that a child whose life is transformed by a book is one step closer to becoming an adult who will change the world.
Key Discussion Points
- Submission Essentials: Ivan emphasizes the importance of polished manuscripts, strategic research, and personalized query letters. Authors should highlight why their work fits the editor’s preferences and demonstrate professionalism to make a strong first impression.
- Acquisition Process: Ivan demystifies the journey of a manuscript from editorial meetings to marketing evaluations, highlighting what makes or breaks a deal.
- Middle-Grade Trends: The market is leaning toward shorter, action-packed, and visually engaging middle-grade books. Writers are encouraged to innovate and break traditional molds to captivate readers.
- Social Media & Track Records: While a social media platform isn’t a dealbreaker, it’s a bonus for YA and middle-grade authors. Past sales numbers of debut books are discussed critically during acquisitions, with publishers investigating contributing factors to performance.
- Opportunities in Chapter Books: There’s room for new voices in character-driven chapter books, with series potential being a key factor for success.
Conclusion
This episode provides actionable advice for aspiring authors to refine their submissions and navigate publishing with confidence. Ivan’s insights, grounded in industry expertise, offer a roadmap for writers seeking to make an impact in children’s literature.
Links Mentioned
- Join the The Waiting Room Facebook Group for personalized writing tips and peer support.
- Visit Writers With Wrinkles for additional podcast notes and resources.
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Episode Summary:
Beth and Lisa chat with Kaitlyn Sanchez, literary agent at Bradford Literary and co-creator of kidlit contests, about navigating the publishing industry. Kaitlyn shares actionable insights for aspiring authors on trends, querying agents, and creating standout manuscripts.
Guest Bio:
Kaitlyn Sanchez is a literary agent at Bradford Literary, middle school math teacher, and co-creator of the Spring Fling Kidlit Contest, Kidlit Zombie Week, and the Kidlit Fall Writing Frenzy. A passionate advocate for children's literature, Kaitlyn specializes in helping writers connect their stories with the right editors while encouraging diversity and humor in picture books.
Key Discussion Points:
- Emerging Trends in Picture Books:
- Increased demand for diverse stories that represent all children.
- A post-COVID push for humorous stories as a counterbalance to emotional content.
- Picture book sales have declined slightly post-COVID boom but remain competitive.
- Advice for Aspiring Authors:
- Have at least 3-4 polished manuscripts ready before querying agents.
- Tailor your submissions to reflect your unique voice while aligning with market trends.
- Persist through rejection (or "passes"), as the right agent/editor match takes time.
- The Importance of Relationships:
- Kaitlyn emphasizes the value of connecting personally with editors to match manuscripts with the right fit.
- She built her knowledge of the publishing landscape from scratch, focusing on imprint dynamics and editor preferences.
- Contests and Creative Growth:
- Kaitlyn highlights the value of free writing contests like the Kidlit Fall Writing Frenzy and Storystorm for generating fresh ideas.
- Alternative Paths:
- Authors can query agents and submit directly to publishers simultaneously, increasing opportunities for success.
Conclusion:
Kaitlyn inspires writers with her passion for the craft and dedication to finding "the right fit" for every manuscript. Her actionable advice and genuine enthusiasm make this a must-listen episode for aspiring picture book authors.
Mentioned Links:
- Learn more about Kaitlyn Sanchez: Bradford Literary
- Contests: Spring Fling Kidlit Contest, Kidlit Fall Writing Frenzy
- Podcast Website: writerswithwrinkles.net
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In this engaging season finale, Beth and Lisa address common writing and publishing challenges, offering practical advice for aspiring authors. From navigating illustration decisions to overcoming the hurdles of low book sales, they provide actionable insights with humor and honesty.
Key Discussion Points
- Illustration Questions for Authors:
- Clarified that non-illustrator authors do not need to provide illustrations for their books; publishers manage that process.
- Shared insights into the collaboration between authors and illustrators, including how unexpected details can enhance a book.
- Author Jail and Sales Pressure:
- Discussed the harsh realities of publishing, including the industry’s focus on first-month sales and its impact on future opportunities.
- Explained strategies for recovering from disappointing sales, such as using pseudonyms, switching genres, or trying self-publishing.
- Encouraged writers to stay resilient and explore new opportunities despite setbacks.
- Upcoming Initiatives:
- Announced a new recurring event: Ask Beth and Lisa Live on Facebook, launching December 10th.
- Teased exciting content for Season 4, including interviews with agents and editors, set to begin January 6th.
Conclusion
Beth and Lisa wrapped up Season 3 with gratitude and excitement for the future, emphasizing their commitment to providing valuable content for writers. They encouraged listeners to join their Facebook group and submit questions for upcoming episodes.
Mentioned Links
- Ask Beth and Lisa Live Event (Dec 10): Join the private Facebook group.
- Podcast Website: writerswithwrinkles.net.
Note: Don’t miss the Season 4 premiere on January 6th, featuring an exclusive agent interview!
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In this impromptu episode (guest couldn't make it last minute!!), Beth McMullen and Lisa Schmid dive into the challenges of finishing a novel, with Lisa candidly sharing her ongoing struggles with her book's last chapter. The hosts discuss strategies to avoid rushed endings and ways to reignite enthusiasm during the final stages of writing.
Guest Bio
No guest this week—Beth and Lisa take center stage with an unscripted and authentic conversation.
Key Discussion Points
The Perils of the Last ChapterLisa describes her repeated attempts to finalize her book's ending and the temptation to keep adding chapters. Beth recalls her experience writing her first book, where she wrote the last chapter first, a strategy she recommends for some writers.
Avoiding Rushed EndingsThe hosts highlight how rushed endings can diminish a reader’s experience, using personal and external examples.
Tips for pacing include stepping back from the manuscript and revisiting earlier sections to fill gaps.
Rebuilding EnthusiasmTaking breaks from writing and seeking feedback from critique partners are emphasized as ways to maintain motivation.
Positive critique experiences can serve as a catalyst to complete drafts.
Writer's Emotional InvestmentLisa shares her struggles with critique and reviews, reinforcing the emotional journey of authorship.
Both hosts agree that writers often seek external validation but should balance it with self-confidence.
Conclusion
Beth and Lisa encourage writers to approach their final chapters with patience and intentionality, offering practical advice to keep the creative spark alive. Whether it’s taking a break or tackling the ending with a fresh perspective, the hosts remind listeners that perseverance leads to rewarding results.
Mentioned Links
- Writers With Wrinkles Podcast Notes and Blog
- Submit questions for the upcoming "Ask Beth and Lisa" episode via the podcast website.
Listeners, join us for the next episode on December 9th, and send in your questions!
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In this episode of Writers with Wrinkles, Beth McMullen and Lisa Schmid tackle the harsh realities of getting "orphaned" in publishing and offer practical tips for authors to navigate setbacks when their editors leave mid-project. They discuss proactive steps authors can take to protect their work, advocate for themselves, and manage expectations in an unpredictable industry.
Key Discussion Points
- What It Means to be Orphaned: Beth and Lisa explain how "orphaning" happens in publishing—when an acquiring editor leaves the publisher, leaving the author without a primary advocate.
- The Realities of Publishing: Both hosts emphasize the frequent disconnect between authors' expectations and the business-focused decisions of publishers. They highlight the importance of managing realistic expectations, as publishers can only do so much for each title.
- Navigating Challenges: Advice on recognizing red flags, such as slow response times or lack of feedback, and leveraging support from literary agents to push back and secure necessary attention for one's work.
- The Value of Self-Advocacy: Tips on self-promotion and assertiveness in the publishing process, encouraging authors to view their book as a product that they need to actively support.
- Considering Alternatives: For authors who feel unsupported, self-publishing is explored as a viable option, especially when traditional publishing fails to provide adequate resources or guidance.
Conclusion
Beth and Lisa underscore that authors must take an active role in their publishing journey, stay realistic about industry limitations, and advocate persistently for their work. By understanding the industry’s constraints, authors can better navigate challenges and even consider alternative publishing routes if traditional paths fall short.
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Episode Summary:
In this episode of Writers with Wrinkles, Beth and Lisa chat with teenage literacy advocate and podcast host, E-Train, who founded E-Train Talks Inc. to combat "book deserts" and promote literacy among underrepresented communities. E-Train discusses his journey into reading advocacy, the books that inspire young readers, and the importance of diverse representation in middle-grade literature.
Guest Bio:
E-Train is a teenage literacy advocate, reading ambassador, and founder of E-Train Talks Inc., a nonprofit dedicated to promoting literacy and access to books for kids in underprivileged areas. He also hosts the E-Train Talks podcast, where he interviews authors and discusses books, aiming to spread “book joy” and support young readers.
Key Discussion Points:
- Origin Story: E-Train shares how his love of books began with family reading time, virtual library book clubs, and a 4th-grade book review project. This passion grew into a broader mission to bring books to underserved communities.
- Current Projects: E-Train is excited about speaking at the California School Library Association Conference, discussing how books can shape kids’ empathy and character.
- Trends in KidLit: E-Train highlights popular genres among young readers, including fantasy, realistic fiction, and mythology. He notes the importance of relevant themes, like social media's impact on friendships and modern bullying dynamics.
- Challenges in Middle-Grade Reading: The influence of adults in book selections can sometimes miss the mark on what truly resonates with kids. E-Train suggests that children often want more books with themes they can relate to, like friendships, crushes, and complex social interactions.
- Book Discovery: He discusses how kids find books, from school libraries to e-readers, emphasizing that teachers, librarians, and independent bookstores play crucial roles.
Conclusion:
E-Train inspires listeners to value literacy as a tool for social change and empathy building. His advocacy efforts are a call to action for aspiring authors to create books that authentically represent young readers’ lives.
Links Mentioned:
- E-Train Talks Inc.
- California School Library Association Conference
- Bookshop.org for supporting indie bookstores and finding middle-grade books.
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Episode Summary: In this episode of Writers With Wrinkles, Beth and Lisa chat with Amy Nielsen, a literary agent at Purcell Agency and a published author, about her experiences with both. Amy shares invaluable tips for querying, editing, and how to handle the ups and downs of the publishing industry.
Guest Bio: Amy Nielsen is a literary agent with Purcell Agency, specializing in young adult and picture books. A former youth librarian with nearly two decades of experience, Amy penned her debut novel, Worth It, while working at her library’s circulation desk. In addition to being an author, she is a freelance editor and a passionate advocate for helping writers polish their submissions.
Key Discussion Points:
- Amy’s journey from librarian to literary agent and author.
- How fictionalizing personal trauma when writing can create emotional distance and help the project.
- Essential do’s and don’ts of querying: research agents, follow submission guidelines, and treat rejections as passes.
- The significance of building a writing community and being a good literary citizen.
- Amy's editing process and her belief in the value of delivering polished work to agents and editors.
- Amy's free resources for self-editing, including developmental and line-editing guides available on her website.
Conclusion: Amy emphasizes perseverance in the querying process and the importance of building a support system within the writing community. She also highlights the role of agents as collaborators and champions for their authors' work. For those looking to improve their submissions, her editing resources are a must-see.
Mentioned Links:
- Editing resources: Amy's website (self-editing, developmental, and line-editing guides available)
- Twitter for updates on Amy’s query status: Amy Nielsen Twitter
- Manuscript wish list
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In episode 37 of Writers With Wrinkles, co-hosts Beth McMullen and Lisa Schmid answer listener questions about writing, with a focus on the differences between beta readers and critique partners, how to find critique partners, and advice on book comps for queries. Lisa also offers a PSA on dogs eating too many cupcakes.
Key Discussion Points:
- Beta Readers vs. Critique Partners:
Beth and Lisa explain that beta readers provide general reader feedback, focusing on how engaging a manuscript is, while critique partners offer more technical, writer-focused critiques. Beta readers are typically not writers, while critique partners should be. - How to Find Critique Partners:
They discuss several avenues for finding critique partners, including professional organizations like SCBWI, Facebook groups, and writing communities. They stress the importance of finding the right fit and being open to change if the partnership isn’t productive. - Book Comps in Queries:
The hosts advise on how to select appropriate comparative titles for book pitches, emphasizing that comps should be from within the last two years to reflect current market trends. They suggest using older favorites as a starting point for finding more recent comps. - Barley the Dog & the Box of Cupcakes:
Lisa recounts how her dog, Barley, ate a box of chocolate cupcakes, prompting her to call a pet poison hotline, which offers critical advice to pet owners in similar situations.
Conclusion:
The episode provides actionable advice for aspiring writers, helping them understand the critical role beta readers and critique partners play in the manuscript development process. Beth and Lisa emphasize the importance of feedback in refining a book and navigating the publishing landscape. They also prepare listeners for the next episode, featuring literary agent Amy Nielsen.
Mentioned Links:
- SCBWI (Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators)
- Mystery Writers of America
- Pet Poison Helpline
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In this episode of Writers With Wrinkles, hosts Beth McMullen and Lisa Schmid chat with Cathie Hedrick-Armstrong, literary agent at Marsal Lyon Literary Agency. Cathie discusses her journey in the publishing world, offering insightful tips on querying, writing from the heart, and maintaining professionalism on social media.
Guest Bio
Cathie Hedrick-Armstrong is a literary agent at Marsal Lyon Literary Agency, author, and book lover. She began her writing career in 2014 with her debut historical fiction, The Edge of Nowhere, and later published the YA novel Roam, which addresses homelessness. With nearly a decade of experience as a literary agent, she’s passionate about championing fresh voices in publishing.
Key Discussion Points
- Querying Best Practices – Cathie emphasizes the importance of being ready before querying, having critique partners, and researching agents thoroughly. She also highlights the need to follow submission guidelines precisely.
- Writing from the Heart vs. Writing for the Market – Cathie discusses the balance between writing something personal and being aware of market trends, encouraging authors to merge the two.
- Social Media and Professionalism – Cathie explains how social media presence can impact an author’s chances with an agent, stressing the importance of kindness and professionalism online.
- What Cathie Looks for in Submissions – She seeks manuscripts that evoke emotion, stating that she loves stories that make her laugh and cry. Writing quality and chemistry with the manuscript are crucial.
Conclusion
Cathie offers invaluable advice to aspiring authors, stressing the importance of genuine, heartfelt writing, while also recognizing market needs. She highlights the significance of professionalism, both in submissions and online presence, for a successful literary career.
Mentioned Links
- Follow Cathie on Twitter for submission tips
- Cathie's manuscript wish list
- Podcast website: WritersWithWrinkles.net
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In this episode, Beth and Lisa take a look at the challenges facing middle-grade publishing, from declining sales to changes in bookstore stocking strategies, that seem to be all anyone can talk about! They share insights on how aspiring authors can adapt to the shifting landscape and stand out in a saturated market.
Key Discussion Points:
- Viral Tweet and Industry Impact: Lisa’s tweet about authors leaving middle grade went viral, sparking widespread conversation and worry among aspiring authors. (00:46)
- Middle-Grade Sales Decline: Middle-grade sales dropped by 1.8 million books in the first half of 2024 compared to 2023, largely due to shifting reading habits and increased screen time among young readers. (03:02)
- Bookstore Stocking Changes: Barnes & Noble's reduction in middle-grade hardcover stocking and Ingram’s cutback on backlist titles have limited book visibility and availability. (09:53)
- Adapting as a Writer: Lisa offers actionable advice, including writing shorter middle-grade books (35,000 words), crafting a hook in the first chapter, and keeping chapters short to cater to modern attention spans. (19:16)
- The Importance of Listening to Industry Trends: Writers should pay attention to feedback from agents and editors to craft pitches that align with what the market demands. (21:15)
Beth and Lisa encourage aspiring middle-grade authors to be strategic in their approach by writing shorter, punchier books that capture attention quickly. Despite the market challenges, they emphasize that there are still opportunities for success if authors remain adaptable and smart in their storytelling.
Mentioned Links:
- Beth’s Substack on middle-grade trends (free)
- Previous episode with agent Anne Rose
- Writers with Wrinkles website
Next Episode:
On September 30th, tune in for a conversation with literary agent Cathie Hedrick-Armstrong of Marsal Lyon Literary Agency.
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In this listener Q&A episode of Writers with Wrinkles, co-hosts Beth McMullen and Lisa Schmid answer a question about juggling multiple writing projects and staying focused. They share personal approaches to managing ideas and offer advice on how to prioritize projects for aspiring authors.
Key Discussion Points
- Handling Multiple Writing Projects: Beth and Lisa tackle a listener's question about managing various writing ideas, from picture books to novels and screenplays.
- Beth's Approach: Beth often starts several projects and lets the most compelling one "choose her" over time. She encourages finishing at least one project to have something ready for submission.
- Lisa's Approach: Lisa prefers to focus on a single project until it’s completed, emphasizing the importance of staying on task and submitting work consistently.
- Managing Genre Switching: They discuss the challenges of working across different genres (e.g., picture books, novels, screenplays) and the importance of mastering the specific skills required for each.
- Building Community: Beth and Lisa highlight the importance of not “pulling up the ladder” once you’ve achieved success, encouraging writers to lift others up as they advance in their careers.
This episode dives into the challenges of managing multiple writing ideas and staying focused. Whether you’re a multitasker like Beth or laser-focused like Lisa, the key takeaway is the importance of finishing projects and supporting fellow writers.
To Send Us A Question
- Visit this page on our website
- scroll back to the top of these notes and use the 'Send Us a Text' link
Mentioned Links
- Beth McMullen's Substack for her Accountability Group
- Lisa Schmid’s book Hart & Souls available at bookstores and libraries.
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In this episode of Writers With Wrinkles, Beth and Lisa welcome literary agent and author Ann Rose to discuss the state of the publishing industry, what makes a debut novel stand out, and how to balance writing for the heart and the market.
Guest Bio:
Ann Rose is a literary agent at Tobias Literary Agency and an author of young adult novels under the pen name A.M. Rose. With a passion for storytelling, she champions books with strong voices and unique concepts. Ann's latest book, The Seemingly Impossible Love Life of Amanda Dean, is set to release on September 17th.
Key Discussion Points:
- Publishing Market Changes: Ann discusses how shifts in how Barnes & Noble stocks books have impacted the middle grade and YA markets.
- Oversaturation in Publishing: The importance of distinguishing a debut novel in a crowded market and the role of reading debut works in your genre.
- Horror Genre’s Rise: Ann highlights the growing popularity of horror as a genre, particularly for its ability to address complex issues in a non-didactic way.
- Balancing Heart and Market: Ann shares insights on writing from the heart while ensuring your story stands out in the current market.
- What Agents Look For: Ann explains what catches her eye in submissions, including strong voice, innovative concepts, and stories that offer a fresh take on familiar tropes.
Conclusion:
Ann Rose provides actionable advice for aspiring authors on how to navigate the competitive publishing landscape, emphasizing the importance of a unique voice and understanding market trends.
Mentioned Links:
- Ann Rose’s book, The Seemingly Impossible Love Life of Amanda Dean, Releases September 17th (link placeholder).
- The Tobias Literary Agency: www.thetobiasagency.com.
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In this episode of Writers with Wrinkles, co-hosts Beth McMullen and Lisa Schmid introduce a new segment called "Ask Beth & Lisa." They jump right into the challenges of surviving the query trenches, offering practical advice on managing the emotional rollercoaster that comes with seeking literary representation.
Key Discussion Points
- Coping Strategies for Querying: Beth and Lisa share their contrasting approaches to dealing with the long waiting periods in the query process. Beth suggests immediately starting a new project to stay productive, while Lisa advocates for taking a break to decompress.
- Understanding Personal Writing Processes: Both hosts emphasize the importance of recognizing and embracing individual writing processes, whether it’s jumping into a new project or taking time off.
- Realistic Expectations: They discuss the current slow pace of the publishing industry, encouraging listeners to set realistic expectations about the timeline for responses from agents.
- Admin Work During Downtime: The episode suggests focusing on administrative tasks like building your platform, researching agents, and catching up on podcast episodes during the waiting period.
- New Segment Introduction: The episode introduces the “Ask Beth and Lisa” segment, which will be featured monthly to answer listener questions anonymously.
Conclusion
Beth and Lisa provide a mix of humor and practical advice for writers navigating the challenging and often slow query process. Listeners are encouraged to use downtime productively and to participate in the new "Ask Beth and Lisa" segment by submitting their own questions.
Mentioned Links
- Writers with Wrinkles website: writerswithwrinkles.net
- Beth McMullen’s Substack newsletter: bethmcmullenbooks.substack.com
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In this episode, Beth and Lisa chat with Rachel Stark, an editor at Disney Hyperion, discussing the state of middle grade and graphic novels, and providing insights into the publishing industry's inner workings. They also delve into how authors can craft compelling submissions and navigate the complexities of book acquisitions.
Guest Bio
Rachel Stark is an experienced editor at Disney Hyperion, known for editing award-winning books like Simon Sort of Says. They have also worked on launching Disney Hyperion's Kugali Ink imprint, which focuses on graphic novels by African creators. As a senior mentor with the Representation Matters Mentorship Program, Rachel aids people of color in gaining a foothold in the publishing industry.
Key Discussion Points
- Middle Grade and Graphic Novels: The conversation explores the growing demand for graphic novels and the fluctuating state of the middle-grade market, highlighting how these genres are impacted by current publishing trends .
- Publishing Insights: Rachel explains the intricacies of the book acquisition process, including the role of profit and loss statements, marketing, and the strategic discussions that determine whether a book gets published .
- Crafting Effective Submissions: Rachel emphasizes the importance of a strong, concise pitch and identifying unique elements in a book that can make it stand out. They also discuss how to effectively communicate a book's potential to various stakeholders within a publishing house .
Conclusion
The episode wraps up with a message of resilience for authors, stressing the importance of continuously writing and evolving one's craft. Rachel provides encouragement by noting that despite market challenges, there is always a place for well-crafted and meaningful stories .
Links Mentioned
- Visit the Writers With Wrinkles blog for more information about Rachel Stark and this episode.
- Cheryl Klein's Mystery Maps
- Here Lies a Vengeful Bitch, by Codie Crowley
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(PLEASE NOTE: All comments and opinions in this podcast are strictly Alonzo's own.)
In this episode, co-hosts Beth McMullen and Lisa Schmidt interview Alonzo Fuller, a marketing specialist for children's books at Andrews McMeel Publishing. They discuss marketing strategies, advice for introverted authors, and the importance of authenticity in book promotion.
Guest Bio: Alonzo Fuller is a marketing specialist at Andrews McMeel Publishing, focusing on children's books. With experience in sports, entertainment, and automotive industries, Alonzo brings a wealth of knowledge to the field of book marketing. Currently residing in Kansas City, Missouri, he is passionate about helping authors connect with their audience.
Key Discussion Points:
- Marketing for Children's Books: Alonzo shares his experiences and strategies in marketing children's books, emphasizing the importance of engaging content and authentic connections with readers.
- Advice for Introverted Authors: Practical tips for authors who struggle with self-promotion, including asking for help, staying true to their voice, and leveraging their networks.
- Importance of Authenticity: The discussion highlights how authenticity in marketing efforts can build stronger connections with readers and contribute to long-term success.
- Social Media and Content: While social media presence is beneficial, Alonzo stresses that the quality of the content remains the most crucial factor in engaging readers.
- Common Marketing Mistakes: Alonzo points out that many authors lose sight of their original objectives and focus too much on sales, which can detract from the quality of their content.
Conclusion: The episode concludes with Alonzo encouraging authors to stay authentic, seek help when needed, and maintain a clear focus on their objectives. His insights into the marketing landscape offer valuable guidance for authors at all stages of their careers.
Mentioned Links:
- Buy Hart & Souls
- Lisa Schmid's interview with Carly West
- Andrews McMeel Publishing: Official Website
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Episode Summary
Beth and Lisa discuss their summer activities and insights from the ALA conference, emphasizing the need for shorter middle-grade books and adaptability in writing. They also announce changes to their podcast format for improved content quality.
Key Discussion Points
- Summer Vacation Reflections: Beth and Lisa reminisce about their childhood summer vacations and discuss how the tradition of summer vacation reports in school can be exclusionary.
- ALA Conference Insights: Lisa shares her experience at the ALA conference, highlighting the rejuvenating atmosphere and the importance of networking with librarians, editors, and fellow authors.
- Trends in Middle-Grade Fiction: The demand for shorter middle-grade books (around 35,000-40,000 words) and the increasing inclusion of illustrations to cater to shorter attention spans.
- Importance of Adaptability in Writing: The necessity for authors to stay updated with current trends, listen to feedback from beta readers and industry professionals, and adapt their writing accordingly.
- Podcast Updates: The podcast will now feature two episodes per month focusing on quality content, including interviews with industry professionals and craft-focused episodes.
Conclusion
Beth and Lisa emphasize the importance of adapting to industry trends and listening to feedback to succeed in writing. They announce changes to their podcast format to ensure high-quality content and share valuable insights from the ALA conference.
Mentioned Links
- Hart & Souls by Lisa Schmid - Pre-order from B&N
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Episode Summary:
Hannah Kimber, associate editor at Andrews McMeel Publishing, shares insights on making book submissions stand out and the detailed acquisitions process. She emphasizes the importance of sensitivity readers, understanding market trends, and open communication between authors and editors.
Guest Bio:
Hannah Kimber is an associate editor of children's books at Andrews McMeel Publishing. She acquires middle grade graphic novels and prose, as well as some young adult literature, with a special interest in light fantasy, light horror, and slice of life friendship stories. When not working, she enjoys reading, rock climbing, hiking, and running.
Key Discussion Points:
- ALA Conference: Discussion about missing the American Library Association (ALA) conference and the emotional experiences associated with it.
- Book Submissions: Advice on making book submissions stand out, including having a concise, attention-grabbing synopsis and a well-organized proposal document.
- Acquisitions Process: Overview of the acquisitions process, from initial submission review to the final deal, highlighting the importance of research, comparative titles, and strategy.
- Sensitivity and Authenticity: Emphasis on the importance of sensitivity readers and authentic representation in children's books.
- Trends in Publishing: Observations on identifying upcoming trends and the importance of understanding what engages children today.
- Practical Advice: Encouragement for authors to trust the process and communicate their strong feelings about their work.
Conclusion:
Hannah Kimber provided valuable insights into the editorial and acquisitions process at Andrews McMeel Publishing, highlighting the importance of well-prepared submissions and understanding market trends. She emphasized the role of sensitivity and authenticity in children's literature and encouraged authors to trust the publishing process while maintaining open communication with their editors.
Mentioned Links:
- Writers with Wrinkles Blog
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Mychal Threets is a librarian currently collaborating with PBS Kids. He's known for his viral videos highlighting library joy. At the time of this recording he was the Supervising Librarian for Solano County Library.
Mychal began his journey with libraries at a young age, getting his first library card and job at the same branch he eventually supervised. Raised in Solano County, Mychal has a passion for libraries and the role they play in communities. He is known for his engaging social media presence, where he spreads "Library Joy" and highlights the positive impact of libraries.
Key Discussion Points:
- Mychal's journey to becoming a librarian, including his personal struggles and how libraries provided refuge and a career path.
- The role of libraries as safe havens for diverse community members, including those seeking refuge and social services.
- The challenges and importance of addressing book bans, particularly their impact on marginalized communities.
- Strategies for libraries and authors to collaborate, promoting literacy and access to diverse books.
- The influence of young, dynamic librarians in transforming library services and engaging communities through social media.
- Popular book recommendations for various age groups, emphasizing inclusivity and representation.
Mychal Threets shared his inspiring journey and the essential role libraries play in communities. He emphasized the importance of inclusivity, combating book bans, and fostering collaboration between libraries and authors to promote literacy.
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Hannah McKinnon is an award-winning author of eight women's fiction and beach read novels with Simon & Schuster. Her notable titles include The Summer Club, (July 23rd), Message in the Sand, The View from Here, Sailing Lessons, The Summer House, Mystic Summer, and The Lake Season. Her latest release, The Darlings, came out on May 2nd. Previously, she published two YA novels, Franny Parker and The Properties of Water, with FSG Macmillan. Hannah resides in Fairfield County, Connecticut, with her family, where she enjoys spending time in her backyard, chasing chickens, wrangling rescue dogs, or at the lake. Follow her on Instagram at Hannah McKinnon Writes and Twitter at Hannah McKinnon.
Key Discussion Points:
- Introduction and New Book Announcement:
- Introduction of Hannah McKinnon and her new book The Summer Club, releasing on July 23rd.
- Overview of her career and previous titles.
- Family Dynamics and Character Development:
- Discussion on Hannah’s approach to exploring complex family relationships in her books.
- Insights into the themes of family stress points and creating relatable characters.
- Writing Process and Settings:
- Hannah’s approach to incorporating settings as integral parts of her stories.
- Research and personal experiences influencing her New England settings.
- Publishing Journey and Challenges:
- Hannah’s transition from middle grade books to contemporary women's fiction.
- Overcoming challenges in the publishing industry, including dealing with rejection and maintaining a balance with social media.
- Advice for Aspiring Writers:
- Importance of perseverance and doing thorough research on the marketplace.
- Using acknowledgements in books to find potential agents and publishers.
Conclusion: Hannah McKinnon shared valuable insights into her writing process, the importance of setting in her novels, and advice for aspiring writers. Her candid discussion about the challenges of the publishing industry and maintaining authenticity in social media presence provided a relatable perspective for both new and seasoned writers.
Mentioned Links:
- Hannah McKinnon’s website: www.hannahmckinnon.com
- Instagram: Hannah McKinnon Writes
- Twitter: Hannah McKinnon
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ENCORE EDITION! (One of our favs from season 2!)
Erinn Pascal is the Senior Editor for Kids Books and Licensing at Andrews McMeel Universal. She has previously held editorial positions at Scholastic, Disney, and Simon & Schuster. Erinn grew up in Pembroke Pines, Florida, and holds a BFA in Writing, Literature, and Publishing from Emerson College. When she's not editing, Erinn enjoys veganizing family recipes, taking her mini Bernedoodle, Obi, to the dog park, practicing Pilates, and shopping at local farmer's markets. She currently resides in Los Angeles.
Key Discussion Points
1. Making Submissions Stand Out: Erinn emphasizes the importance of thorough research into the recipient of a submission, knowing their preferences, and understanding their existing catalog. She highlights the necessity of clear communication regarding an author’s goals and vision for their book.
2. Trends in Publishing: Erinn discusses the current trends, including the popularity of manga, anime-inspired art, horror, and graphic novels. She also notes the value of niche markets and creative stories.
3. The Acquisition Process: Erinn outlines the detailed acquisition process at Andrews McMeel Universal, from initial submission reviews to final decisions, including the role of sales and marketing teams.
4. Author Platforms: The discussion touches on the importance of an author's platform, noting that while a large following can influence print runs, it is not the sole factor in acquisition decisions. The content of an author’s social media is also considered, especially for children's book authors.
5. Diversity and Inclusion: Erinn expresses her interest in acquiring books that normalize different neurodivergences and religious minorities without making them the central theme of the story.
Conclusion
Erinn Pascal offers valuable insights into the publishing industry, from crafting standout submissions to navigating current trends and understanding the acquisition process. Her emphasis on meaningful partnerships between authors and editors, along with her commitment to diversity and inclusion, provides a comprehensive view of what it takes to succeed in today's publishing landscape.
Mentioned Links
- Visit Andrews McMeel Universal
- Follow Erinn Pascal on Twitter for updated manuscript wishlists
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ENCORE EDITION!
(PLEASE NOTE: All comments and opinions in this podcast are strictly Sara's own.)
In the latest episode of Writers with Wrinkles, we're thrilled to host Sara Schonfeld, an editor at HarperCollins, specializing in middle grade and YA literature.
Our discussion spans the joys and challenges of editing, insights into the acquisitions process, and invaluable advice for writers on submissions, social media presence, and the evolving landscape of genre blending in literature. Sara's passion for nurturing authors and her editorial expertise shine through, offering a treasure trove of wisdom for both aspiring and seasoned writers.
In This Episode:
1. Sara's Entry into Publishing: Discover Sara's intriguing start in the publishing industry through a serendipitous project with Dr. Seuss's The Grinch Mad Libs.
2. Editorial Philosophy: Gain insight into Sara's approach to editing, emphasizing the importance of enhancing the author's vision while keeping the reader in mind.
3. Juggling Editorial Projects: Understand the complexity and organization behind managing multiple books at various stages of publication.
4. The Submission Standouts: Learn what makes a manuscript shine in the crowded publishing landscape, including the significance of genre knowledge and the infusion of personal voice.
5. Behind the Acquisitions Veil: Get a rare peek into the acquisitions process, demystifying what happens behind the scenes and how decisions are made.
6. Editing Process Explained: Delve into the detailed and iterative process of editing, from big-picture feedback to line edits, and the collaborative nature of bringing a book to fruition.
7. Social Media for Writers: Hear Sara's thoughts on the role of social media in a writer's career and the importance of authenticity.
8. Genre Blending and Wishlist: Discover Sara's enthusiasm for genre-blended manuscripts, especially those that merge speculative elements with rom-com vibes.
Highlights:
- Advice for Aspiring Authors: Practical tips on standing out in submissions, including the critical role of competitive titles and authentic storytelling.
- Acquisitions Deep Dive: An insider's view on how books are selected for publication and the collective excitement that drives editorial meetings.
- The Future of Genres: Sara's anticipation for innovative genre blends and her call for submissions that push creative boundaries.
Website: https://www.saraschonfeldbooks.com/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/SaraSchon
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Key Discussion Points:
-
Summer Slump in Writing: Beth and Lisa discuss how summer activities can lead to a writing slump and share personal experiences and tips for overcoming it.
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Character Development: Lisa shares her struggle with her character's emotional journey and how understanding her character's background helped overcome writing challenges.
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Author Accelerator Book Coaching: Beth talks about her experience with the Author Accelerator's book coaching certification, emphasizing the importance of understanding a character's motivations.
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Platform Building Challenge: Recap of the platform building challenge that starts on June 1st, with daily tasks to help authors build their platforms. The challenge is collaborative, involving various social media platforms. USE #wwwplatformchallenge to tag your posts!
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Upcoming Book Events: Lisa discusses her book launch events for "Hart & Souls," including signings and panel discussions at the ALA conference.
Episode Summary:
In this episode, Beth and Lisa discuss the challenges of maintaining writing momentum during the summer and the importance of deep character development. They also introduce a 31-day platform building challenge for authors starting June 1st.
Mentioned Links:
- Episode 19 (for platform challenge details)
- Bitsy Kemper's Platform Challenge
- Writers with Wrinkles Website
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In this episode, we welcome Joshua Pruett, a New York Times & USA Today bestselling author, and Emmy Award winner. Pruett has written for both Mystery Science Theater 3000 and Doctor Who. He is currently a writer for the upcoming return of Phineas and Ferb and co-author of the Last Comics on Earth graphic novel series. His first solo middle-grade series, Gyro and the Argonauts, will be released by Andrews McMeel Kids in the summer of 2025.
Key Discussion Points
- Journey to Success:
- Joshua Pruett shares his excitement about his upcoming middle-grade series, Gyro and the Argonauts. Inspired by a passion for Greek mythology, Pruett has crafted a story that reimagines monsters as heroes.
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He discusses the creative process behind this book, emphasizing the importance of taking control of one's narrative and the theme of breaking free from societal expectations.
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Writing Collaboratively:
- Pruett discusses his collaborative writing process with Max Brailler on the Last Comics on Earth series. He highlights the dynamic nature of their partnership and the creative synergy that fuels their work.
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He explains the concept of Last Comics on Earth, where the protagonists create their own comic book series within the post-apocalyptic world they inhabit, blending humor and adventure.
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Transition to Television:
- Reflecting on his transition from feature animation to television, Pruett discusses his experience writing for several popular shows. He appreciates the frequent opportunities for storytelling that TV offers compared to the slower pace of feature animation.
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He shares anecdotes about the collaborative environment in TV writers' rooms and the joy of contributing to beloved series like Doctor Who.
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Balancing Solo and Collaborative Projects:
- Pruett talks about the contrast between collaborative projects and solo endeavors. He finds value in both approaches, appreciating the solitude of writing novels while also enjoying the team dynamics in TV writing.
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He mentions the strategic aspects of his career, where he balances personal creative control with collaborative opportunities.
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Advice for Aspiring Writers:
- Joshua Pruett encourages aspiring writers to create and produce their work, especially during challenging times in the industry. He advises against waiting for permission and emphasizes the importance of being proactive.
- He stresses the significance of writing what one loves and strategically planning one’s career to leverage small opportunities into larger successes.
Mentioned Links
Joshua Pruett's Linktree
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This episode features co-host Lisa Schmid discussing her upcoming middle-grade novel "Hart & Souls." The focus is on the challenges of writing a second novel, known as the sophomore slump, and the unique pressures and expectations that come with it.
Key Discussion Points:
- Introduction to "Hart & Souls"
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Lisa introduces her novel about Stix Hart, a sixth-grader dealing with anxiety from past bullying. He meets three ghosts with unresolved issues and helps them move on.
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The Sophomore Slump
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Beth and Lisa discuss the difficulties of writing a second novel and the pressures that come with following up a debut success.
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Inspiration Behind the Story
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Lisa shares a personal story about her son’s middle school experience and how an encounter with a troubled bully inspired "Hart & Souls."
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Middle-Grade Writing
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The importance of making books accessible, fun, and educational without being preachy. Lisa balances serious issues with an engaging narrative.
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Lessons from the First Novel
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Lisa reflects on the lessons learned from her debut, "Olly Oxley and the Ghost," and how they influenced her approach to her second novel.
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Real-Life Issues in Fiction
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Addressing topics like bullying, anxiety, LGBTQ+ issues, parental abuse, and racism in middle-grade fiction. Lisa highlights the importance of reflecting real-life struggles in a relatable way.
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Writing Process and Craft
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The challenges of creating multiple story arcs and weaving them together. Lisa emphasizes the importance of reading across genres to improve writing craft.
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Advice for Aspiring Authors
- Tips for those starting their second novel, including changing the point of view to ensure distinct characters and stories.
This episode provides a deep dive into the creative process behind "Hart & Souls," highlighting the challenges and triumphs of writing a second novel. Lisa Schmid's insights offer valuable lessons for aspiring authors and middle-grade enthusiasts.
Listeners are encouraged to pre-order 'Hart & Souls' and attend Lisa's book launch on July 27th at Ruby's Books in Folsom, where she will be in conversation with Beth McMullen. Additionally, Lisa will be at the ALA conference in San Diego on June 29th and 30th, signing books and participating in a panel discussion.
Links Mentioned:
- Pre Order Hart & Souls
- Ruby's Books
- ALA Conference
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Lindy Ryan, anthologist and horror author, discusses her debut horror novel Bless Your Heart, which explores themes of family, loss, and confronting monsters. She also discusses the intricacies of bringing an anthology to market.
Key Discussion Points:
Writing as Therapy: Ryan shares the personal beginnings of her writing journey, using her narratives as a means to cope with the loss of her grandmothers and to celebrate the women in her family.
Anthology Curating: The process of assembling an anthology is detailed, highlighting the logistical challenges and creative fulfillment it brings, alongside tips on managing contributions from multiple authors.
Women in Horror: A discussion on the historical underrepresentation of women in the horror genre and the positive shifts towards inclusivity and diversity, as well as horro sub-genres like f 'cozy horror'.
Transition to Screen: Insights into the adaptation of literary works into films and TV, underscoring the need for flexibility and openness to reinterpretation in the screenwriting and production processes.
Empowering Women Writers: The importance of community and mentorship among women in horror is emphasized, encouraging female authors to engage and support each other in the genre.
The episode concludes with a message of solidarity and encouragement for women navigating the horror genre, advocating for community engagement and mentorship. Listeners are encouraged to explore Ryan's work, Mother Knows Best, a newly released anthology perfect for Mother's Day.
Mentioned Links:
- Lindy Ryan's website
- Bless Your Heart on Amazon
- Mother Knows Best anthology on Amazon
Support the Show.
Website
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Hosts: Beth McMullen and Lisa Schmid
Theme: The 31-Day Platform Challenge
For: Aspiring authors looking for practical advice on building and enhancing their author platform.
Key Discussion Points:
- Overview of the 31-Day Challenge: Aimed at building author platforms through daily, manageable tasks starting June 1st. Hosted in partnership with Bitsy Kemper. Details can be found on their blog at Writers with Wrinkles.
- Importance of Author Platforms: Both hosts emphasized the necessity of having a platform as a modern author, whether you're self-published or traditionally published. Platforms provide visibility and connectivity with potential readers.
- Practical Tasks: The challenge includes varied tasks such as defining your brand, considering starting a blog or newsletter, and possibly updating or creating a website. Examples like setting up a basic site on Wix were discussed to demystify technology for users.
- Engagement Tips: Tips on social media engagement strategies were shared, such as choosing platforms that align with your target audience, content consistency, and the use of polls and follower engagement to increase interaction.
- Getting Ready: Preparation for the challenge involves thinking critically about one's brand and the specific audience they intend to reach. Defining these elements early can significantly enhance platform effectiveness.
Conclusion:
The episode wraps up with encouragement to participate in the upcoming 31-Day Platform Challenge. It stresses the importance of having a clear strategy for online presence. Visit the Writers With Wrinkles Blog for more details or the Writers With Wrinkles Linktree
Challenge hashtag: #wwwplatformchallenge
Sample Challenge Calendar
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Threads: @WritersWithWrinkles
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Email: Beth@BethMcMullenBooks.comWriters with Wrinkles Link Tree for more!
In this episode, we interview Bitsy Kemper, a prolific author of children's books and a passionate advocate for authors navigating the publishing industry.
The theme of this episode revolves around the resilience required in the publishing industry, including the personal challenges and triumphs of maintaining a career in writing over time. The discussion also touches on ghostwriting and practical advice for aspiring authors.
Key Discussion Point
1. Bitsy Kemper's Journey: From marketing to becoming a celebrated children's book author, highlighting her persistence and adaptability.
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Overcoming Rejection: We discuss how to handle rejection in the publishing world, emphasizing it's not personal but rather about finding the right fit.
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Ghostwriting and Writing for Hire: Bitsy explains her experiences and the skills necessary to succeed in ghostwriting, including how to adopt the voice of the client and the importance of discretion.
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Advice for Aspiring Authors: Practical tips on navigating the publishing landscape, leveraging platforms like SCBWI, and how to use personal and professional challenges as growth opportunities.
-
Thirty-One Day Author Platform Challenge: Bitsy introduces a program designed to help writers enhance their online presence incrementally, which is crucial in today’s digital-forward publishing environment.
Bitsy's insights provide invaluable lessons on perseverance, not taking rejections personally, and strategic career maneuvers in writing. She emphasizes the importance of community support, continuous learning, and strategic marketing to sustain a successful writing career.
Mentioned Links:
Website
31 Day Platform Challenge
List of Publishers
Support the Show.
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Hosts:
- Beth McMullen
- Lisa Schmid
Theme:
The importance of secondary characters in storytelling.
Key Discussion Points:
- Secondary characters add depth, complexity, and enrich the narrative.
- They contribute to the world-building, provide subplots, conflicts, and challenges.
- Effective secondary characters are distinct from main characters and have their own development arc.
- They can reflect, challenge, and highlight aspects of the protagonist, aiding in their growth.
- Secondary characters should impact the plot, offering information and altering the course of the narrative.
- Every character introduced must serve a purpose to the plot or character development.
- It’s important to avoid filler characters and “kill your darlings” if they don't contribute to the story.
- Distinctive traits or quirks should serve the story and make characters memorable.
- Complex relationships between main and secondary characters enrich the narrative and drive character growth.
- Secondary characters can embody themes or contribute symbolically to the story’s message.
Conclusion:
Secondary characters are pivotal to storytelling success. They must be multi-dimensional, engaging, and crucial to the plot and theme. For aspiring and working writers, respecting the craft of creating secondary characters can lead to richer narratives and more compelling storytelling, engaging readers who seek depth and authenticity in the stories they read. Listeners are encouraged to develop their secondary characters with care and intention.
Support the show
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Email: Beth@BethMcMullenBooks.comWriters with Wrinkles Link Tree for more!
Hosts: Beth McMullen and Lisa Schmid
Theme: Writer Resilience, Success
Key Discussion Points:
- Matt Eicheldinger's Background:
- Transition from childhood interests to writing.
- Teaching career and its role in storytelling.
- Path to self-publishing and eventual traditional publishing success.
- Celebrating Recent Successes:
- Matt's book, "Matt Sprouts and the Curse of the Ten Broken Toes," hits bestseller lists.
- Discussion on dealing with imposter syndrome and the overwhelming nature of success.
- The Realities of Publishing:
- The challenges of gaining visibility and the perseverance required in the face of rejection.
- The impact of social media presence and pre-sale records on publishing opportunities.
- Understanding the nature of book deals and the industry's unpredictability.
- Self-Publishing Insights:
- Matt's experiences and learnings from self-publishing, including Kickstarter funding and distribution struggles.
- The importance of pivoting strategies and learning from rejection to enhance one’s writing and querying process.
- Social Media Strategy:
- Matt’s approach to building an authentic social media presence without overtly promoting his books.
- The significance of being genuine, consistent, and engaging in storytelling on social media platforms.
- Lessons learned from viral content and maintaining a focus on genuine engagement over chasing trends.
Conclusion:
The episode encapsulates the highs and lows of a writer's life, emphasizing hard work, resilience, and adaptability. Matt's journey from an unknown teacher and writer to a celebrated author exemplifies the unpredictable nature of the publishing world and the importance of staying true to one's craft and vision.
Find Matt here.
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Email: Beth@BethMcMullenBooks.comWriters with Wrinkles Link Tree for more!
Coping with imposter syndrome as a writer.
Key Discussion Points:
- We delve into the concept of imposter syndrome, defined as doubting one's abilities and feeling like a fraud despite success.
- Discussion of the commonality of imposter syndrome among writers, with anecdotes of even well-known authors feeling it.
- The role of social media in amplifying feelings of inadequacy and strategies for writers to manage this influence.
- The importance of a supportive community and constructive critique partners in navigating the publishing industry.
- Recommendations for overcoming imposter syndrome, such as setting achievable goals, seeking therapy or book coaching, and maintaining a focus on writing for its own sake.
Conclusion:
Imposter syndrome is pervasive among writers, but it can be managed with strategies that include focusing on small, achievable goals, fostering a supportive community, and understanding that social media is a curated presentation of success. Therapy or coaching may also be beneficial. We encourage listeners to find their own strategies to silence self-doubt and continue pursuing their passion for writing.
Support the show
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Email: Beth@BethMcMullenBooks.comWriters with Wrinkles Link Tree for more!
Hosts:
Beth McMullen
Lisa Schmid
Themes:
Exploring the nuances of writing rhyming picture books with guest Lisa Riddiough, a Northern California based writer and author of the newly released picture book, Pie-rats.
Key Discussion Points:
1. The Art of Rhyme in Picture Books: Discussion on the industry's view on rhyming picture books and the common misconceptions that surround them.
-
Natural Rhymers vs. Learned Technique: Insight into the natural ability of rhyming versus the learned skill, emphasizing that while anyone can learn to rhyme, an inherent sense of rhythm enhances the writing process.
-
Crafting Quality Rhymes: Riddiough highlights the importance of using interesting words that align with the story's theme and avoiding "bad" rhymes or forced cadences.
-
Perfect Rhyme vs. Slant Rhyme: Delineation between perfect and slant rhymes, illustrating how each serves the narrative differently and the importance of consistency in rhyme schemes throughout a book.
-
Reader Engagement through Rhyme: The educational aspect of rhyming for young readers, fostering confidence, and participation in the reading process.
-
Lisa Riddiough's Writing Process: An in-depth look into Riddiough's creative process, including the use of word banks, title generation, and the foundational elements of crafting a story.
-
Upcoming Works: A sneak peek into Riddiough's forthcoming books, Embarrassed Ferret and Furious Turtle, which are set in a school environment with rhyming adventures.
Conclusion:
Rhyming picture books hold a significant place in children's literature, captivating young readers with rhythm and sound. Lisa Riddiough's experiences illustrate the dedication and creativity required to master this art form.
For writers and readers alike, understanding the intricacies of rhyme can enrich the storytelling experience. Listeners are encouraged to visit the Writers with Wrinkles website for additional resources and upcoming episodes.
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Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify
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Season 3, Episode 13 - Embracing Rejection and Failure in Your Writing Journey
Hosts: Beth McMullen and Lisa Schmid
Episode Theme: Navigating Failure and Rejection in Writing
Key Discussion Points:
-
Personal Experience with Rejection:
-
Shared a recent rejection of their Cat’s Rule picture book.
-
Importance of closure in rejections, even without feedback.
-
Interpreting Rejection:
-
Sometimes, rejections hide internal conflicts within publishing companies.
-
Creating narratives around rejections can be a coping mechanism.
-
Detaching Emotion from Rejection:
-
Lisa's approach: Rejection is not personal; it's part of the writer's journey.
-
The literary world's competitiveness requires resilience.
-
Strategies for Handling Rejection:
-
Reframe Rejection: It's not a measure of your worth as a writer or person.
-
Feedback is Gold: Use any feedback from rejections to improve.
-
Query in Batches: Small batches of queries can help identify and fix issues faster.
-
Celebrate Small Wins: Finishing a manuscript is a significant achievement.
-
Learning from Rejection:
-
Every rejection is an opportunity to grow and refine your craft.
-
Success stories are often built on numerous rejections.
-
Building a Support Network:
-
Importance of having a community that understands and supports you.
-
Sharing rejections and victories helps build resilience.
-
Staying in the Game:
-
Writing is an endurance game; persistence is key.
-
The journey is as important as the destination.
Conclusion:
-
Embrace rejection as a step towards growth.
-
Keep writing, submitting, and believing in your journey.
Next Episode Teaser:
- Discussion with Lisa Riddiough on rhyming picture books.
Call to Action:
- Support the show by subscribing, following, and recommending.
Support the show
Website: https://www.writerswithwrinkles.net/
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Email: Beth@BethMcMullenBooks.comWriters with Wrinkles Link Tree for more!
(PLEASE NOTE: All comments and opinions in this podcast are strictly Sara's own.)
In the latest episode of Writers with Wrinkles, we're thrilled to host Sara Schonfeld, an editor at HarperCollins, specializing in middle grade and YA literature.
Our discussion spans the joys and challenges of editing, insights into the acquisitions process, and invaluable advice for writers on submissions, social media presence, and the evolving landscape of genre blending in literature. Sara's passion for nurturing authors and her editorial expertise shine through, offering a treasure trove of wisdom for both aspiring and seasoned writers.
In This Episode:
1. Sara's Entry into Publishing: Discover Sara's intriguing start in the publishing industry through a serendipitous project with Dr. Seuss's The Grinch Mad Libs.
2. Editorial Philosophy: Gain insight into Sara's approach to editing, emphasizing the importance of enhancing the author's vision while keeping the reader in mind.
3. Juggling Editorial Projects: Understand the complexity and organization behind managing multiple books at various stages of publication.
4. The Submission Standouts: Learn what makes a manuscript shine in the crowded publishing landscape, including the significance of genre knowledge and the infusion of personal voice.
5. Behind the Acquisitions Veil: Get a rare peek into the acquisitions process, demystifying what happens behind the scenes and how decisions are made.
6. Editing Process Explained: Delve into the detailed and iterative process of editing, from big-picture feedback to line edits, and the collaborative nature of bringing a book to fruition.
7. Social Media for Writers: Hear Sara's thoughts on the role of social media in a writer's career and the importance of authenticity.
8. Genre Blending and Wishlist: Discover Sara's enthusiasm for genre-blended manuscripts, especially those that merge speculative elements with rom-com vibes.
Highlights:
- Advice for Aspiring Authors: Practical tips on standing out in submissions, including the critical role of competitive titles and authentic storytelling.
- Acquisitions Deep Dive: An insider's view on how books are selected for publication and the collective excitement that drives editorial meetings.
- The Future of Genres: Sara's anticipation for innovative genre blends and her call for submissions that push creative boundaries.
Website: https://www.saraschonfeldbooks.com/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/SaraSchon
See you next week!
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What is Pacing?
- More about rhythm than speed
- Reader engagement is key - avoid sections that feel like a slog
- Different genres have different pacing expectations (e.g., thrillers vs. literary fiction)
Crafting Pacing
- Sentence Length: Short = fast, Long = slow
- Active Voice & Description: "Show, don't tell" keeps things moving
- Paragraph Length: Vary length and break up long blocks of text
- Formatting: Use sparingly - long quotes, italics, footnotes
- Series Writing: Consider ongoing elements that won't become burdensome
- Information Reveal: Control the flow of information for suspense
- Chapter Endings: Cliffhangers or unresolved conflicts keep readers hooked
- Dialogue: Natural delivery to reveal character and advance plot
- Vary length for pacing: short = tension, long = build relationships
Improving Pacing
- Self-Review: Re-read your work - identify boring sections
- Revision: Experiment and refine pacing - big edits are OK
- Read & Watch: Learn from your genre & films - analyze pacing techniques
- Comparative Analysis: Compare your pacing to published works (page-by-page)
- Cheat Sheet: Check out the podcast's resource for key pacing tips
Remember:
- Pacing is an iterative process that improves with practice and revision.
- Keep reading, experimenting, and revising to master pacing in your writing.
Bonus:
- Support the podcast and explore their resources for more writing advice!
Support the show
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Email: Beth@BethMcMullenBooks.comWriters with Wrinkles Link Tree for more!
Writers With Wrinkles: Patience Bloom on Romance Writing
Patience Bloom, a freelance book editor with 26 years of experience in romance publishing, joins Beth McMullen and Lisa Schmid on the podcast Writers With Wrinkles.
Key points:
- Elements of a captivating romance protagonist:
- Likable, even if flawed.
- Human and relatable.
- Vulnerable but strong.
- Possesses expertise in a specific area.
- Common pitfalls in portraying romantic relationships:
- Lack of conflict.
- Unrealistic or drawn-out conflict.
- Poor timing of romantic development.
- Current trends in romance writing:
- Increased inclusivity.
- More prominence of witches, sports, cowboys, dogs, and wilderness settings.
Patience Bloom's additional insights:
- Going through the process of publishing her own memoir, Romance is My Day Job, made her a more efficient, understanding, and empathetic editor.
Links:
- Romance Is My Day Job blog
- Editorial Services
- Romance is My Day Job: a memoir
Timestamps:
- 2:13 - Patience and Beth discuss their experience attending boarding school together.
- 6:43 - Lisa asks about the key elements of a captivating romance protagonist.
- 8:17 - Patience provides examples of characters with depth and expertise.
- 11:35 - Patience discusses the importance of avoiding one-dimensional characters and unnecessary conflict.
- 13:34 - She shares examples of how to create interesting conflict in a romance novel.
- 16:05 - Lisa highlights the frustration of drawn-out conflict in romance novels and television shows.
- 17:13 - Patience shares her controversial opinion on Olivia Benson and Elliot Stabler from Law & Order: SVU.
- 17:58 - Beth and Patience discuss the importance of timing in the development of a romantic relationship.
- 18:51 - Patience emphasizes the need for urgency and emotional connection in a romance.
- 19:25 - Lisa asks about current trends and what aspiring writers can do to stand out.
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Beth McMullen and Lisa Schmid tackle the art of writing flashbacks, offering insight into integrating them effectively into your narrative. The episode focuses on making flashbacks seamless and impactful, avoiding common pitfalls that can distract or confuse readers.
Flashbacks: A Double-Edged Sword
- Flashbacks can enrich your story by providing backstory and depth to characters.
- However, misused flashbacks can disrupt the flow and pull readers out of the story.
Five Key Tips for Effective Flashbacks
1. Anchor Your Flashback: Ensure there's a clear connection to the present narrative to smoothly transition into a flashback.
2. Have Purpose: Each flashback should serve a specific purpose, adding value to character development or advancing the plot.
3. Keep It Brief: Lengthy flashbacks can derail the story's pace. Focus on delivering essential information.
4. Make It Clear: Clearly delineate between past and present to avoid confusing your readers. Consistency is key.
5. Integrate, Don't Isolate: Flashbacks should feel like a natural part of the story, not as isolated incidents or info dumps.
6. BONUS: Sometimes, the goal of a flashback can be achieved within the present narrative, reducing the need for a disruptive shift to the past.
Personal Insights and Examples
- Beth shares her experience with her first published novel, Original Sin, discussing how her unfiltered use of flashbacks played out.
- Lisa provides an example from Hart and Souls, illustrating how a flashback can reveal character motivations rooted in past experiences.
The Importance of Revision and Feedback
- Emphasizing the role of critical evaluation, revision, and external feedback in refining the use of flashbacks in your manuscript.
- The hosts share personal anecdotes about receiving and incorporating feedback to improve their work.
Remember
- Flashbacks, when used judiciously and effectively, can significantly enhance storytelling.
Next Episode Preview
- Beth and Lisa tease the next episode featuring Patience Bloom, a veteran in romance editing and publishing, promising invaluable insights into the genre.
Blog version here
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Join Beth McMullen and Lisa Schmid as they welcome Andrew Auseon, a talented author and video game writer. Dive into Andrew's journey across the realms of video games and kids books, exploring the creative synergy between these two worlds.
Spellbinders Series: Discover the magic behind Andrew Auseon's middle-grade series, starting with Spellbinders: The Not So Chosen One and the upcoming sequel Spellbinders: Break the Game. Follow Ben's adventures as he navigates personal challenges and a fantastical world where he's seen as a prophesied hero.
Video Games & Books: Examine the role video games play in storytelling and socialization, particularly for middle-grade audiences. Learn about the evolution of video game narratives and their impact on kinds of storytelling.
Creative Process: Andrew shares insights into the differences and similarities of writing for video games vs. novels, emphasizing the importance of pacing, thematic exploration, and character development.
Career Journey: From debut author and a respected name in video game narrative design, Andrew offers advice for aspiring creators, highlighting the importance of storytelling skills across media and the value of collaboration.
Getting Involved in Game Writing: Tips for aspiring game writers on immersing themselves in the gaming industry, developing a strong portfolio, and understanding the technicalities of game development. Whether you're interested in narrative design in video games or crafting stories for books, Andrew's journey is a testament to the power of storytelling across different mediums. Dive deep into the worlds you wish to create and continuously refine your craft.
Listen Now: Don't miss this episode's insights into video game storytelling and creating compelling narratives.
Remember: Visit the podcast website at writerswithwrinkles.net for more about Andrew Auseon and to support and share about the show.
Support the show
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Email: Beth@BethMcMullenBooks.comWriters with Wrinkles Link Tree for more!
This week we dived deep into the picture book publishing process. Whether you're at the beginning of your journey, stuck in the middle, or just looking for that extra nudge, we've covered everything you need to know to navigate this challenging yet rewarding path.
Our Picture Book Journey: We share the latest on Cat's Rule and the unagented submission process. Despite the silence from publishers, we're just at the beginning!
Dealing with Submissions: We talked about the frustration of unresponsive publishers. Yet, there's hope in platforms like Entangled Publishing's Little Lark, which allows authors to track their submission's progress. It's a game-changer in maintaining sanity during the waiting game.
Joining SCBWI: If you haven't already, joining the Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI) is a must. It's been a beacon of support, resources, and community for both of us. From critique partners to craft agents, SCBWI offers everything you need to grow in the kid lit world.
Craft Development Resources: We also highlighted invaluable resources for honing your craft, such as the Highlights Foundation, the Writing Barn, and the Children's Book Academy. These platforms offer workshops, classes, and webinars that are accessible virtually, making them perfect for any schedule and budget.
Feedback is Gold: Embrace feedback on your work. It's the cornerstone of growth. Sharing your work, even when it's scary, opens the door to invaluable insights that can transform your writing.
Contests and Pitch Parties: Don't overlook contests and Twitter pitch parties like #PBPitch. They're fantastic opportunities to gain visibility, feedback, and even catch the eye of agents and publishers. Plus, winning or being shortlisted in contests can be a significant boost to your author bio.
Querying Resources: When you're ready to query, resources like Sylvia Liu's Advanced Tips for Querying Agents and the monster list of picture book agents by Heather Ayris Burnell are indispensable.
Final Thoughts: Putting yourself out there is essential. Whether it's joining SCBWI, submitting to contests, or querying agents, each step you take brings you closer to your dream of publishing a picture book.
Remember, we're in this together, cheering each othe
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In the latest episode of Writers With Wrinkles, join hosts Beth McMullen and Lisa Schmid as they talk with Kaitlyn Sanchez, a figure who has rapidly become a beacon in the world of children's literature. Kaitlyn, a literary agent at Bradford Literary, shares her unique story that transitions from a passion for mathematics to a growing influence in children's book publishing.
Listeners will be treated to an in-depth conversation that delves into the competitive landscape of picture book publishing, highlighting key trends and the increasing demand for stories that reflect our diverse society. Kaitlyn's insights into what makes a manuscript stand out in a crowded market are invaluable for aspiring authors.
Moreover, this episode sheds light on the importance of resilience in the face of industry rejection. Kaitlyn's approach to viewing rejections as mere "passes" and her emphasis on the significance of the right fit between an author and an agent provides a fresh perspective on the publishing journey.
Additionally, Kaitlyn discusses her eclectic taste in literature and its advantage in the dynamic world of book publishing, challenging the conventional wisdom of sticking to a specific writing "brand."
This episode is not just a narrative of success; it's a treasure trove of advice, inspiration, and a testament to the power of perseverance and personal growth in the literary world. Whether you're an established author, an aspiring writer, or a book lover, this episode promises to offer a unique blend of inspiration and practical guidance.
Don't miss this opportunity to hear from one of the most dynamic figures in children's literature today. Tune in to this episode of Writers With Wrinkles for a journey through the literary landscape with Kaitlyn Sanchez.
Find Kaitlyn
Website: https://kaitlynleannsanchez.com/
Twitter: @KaitlynLeann17
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KaitlynLeann17
To follow her clients on social media: https://kaitlynleannsanchez.com/literary-clients/
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Mastering the Art of the Synopsis Season 3, Episode 5
Hello, aspiring authors! It's Beth McMullen and Lisa Schmid, your trusty navigators on the sea of publishing. In our latest episode,we dive deep into a territory that even the bravest writers often fear to tread—the dreaded synopsis.
Crafting a compelling synopsis is no less than an art. It's often the first window into your work for agents, publishers, and readers. So how do you distill the essence of your novel into a single page or two? Here's the wisdom we shared in this episode:
-
Length and Format
Your synopsis should be concise—about one to two pages, single-spaced. This isn't the place for your narrative to sprawl. Think of it as the elevator pitch of your manuscript. -
Clarity and Focus
Cut through the clutter. Your synopsis should be a clear, focused narrative that distills your story to its essence. Skip the industry jargon and complex language; simplicity is key. -
The Whole Story
This isn't a teaser like a back-cover blurb; a synopsis must reveal the entire plot, including how things wrap up. Leaving the ending a mystery in a synopsis is a cardinal sin. -
Main Characters
Introduce us to your protagonists. Give us a glimpse of their desires, conflicts, and motivations. We should know who they are and what's at stake for them. -
Key Plot Points
Walk us through the milestones of your story. From the inciting incident to the climax and resolution, make sure we understand the journey. -
Emotional and Thematic Arcs
How do your characters grow? What are the broader themes or messages? These elements should be woven into your synopsis to give it depth. -
Unique Selling Points
Does your book offer something out of the ordinary? Highlight the aspects that make your story stand out. -
Style and Tone
Your synopsis should be a reflection of your book's voice. If your novel is humorous, let that humor sparkle in the synopsis too. -
Proofread and Edit
Your synopsis is a reflection of your writing skills. Make sure it's polished to perfection—no typos, no grammatical errors, just clear and engaging writing. -
Tailor to Your Audience
Are you sending this to an agent or publisher? Tailor your synopsis to fit their submission guidelines and preferences. This shows professionalism and attention to detail.
Remember, a synopsis is more than just a summary—it's your chance to showcase your storytelling prowess and hook your reader.
A Sparkling New Website
Visit our brand new, spar
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In this episode, Beth and Lisa welcome Ben Fox, a serial entrepreneur and the founder of Shepherd.com, an innovative platform aiming to revolutionize online book discoverability. As avid readers and critics of Goodreads, the hosts delve into Shepherd.com's unique approach to connecting readers with books through curated lists and positive recommendations.
Key Topics Discussed:
-
Introduction to Shepherd.com: Ben explains how Shepherd.com introduces curiosity and serendipity into the online book-finding experience, mirroring the feel of browsing in a local bookstore.
-
The Concept of Positive Recommendations: Unlike Goodreads, Shepherd.com focuses exclusively on positive book recommendations, avoiding review bombing and negativity.
-
Leveraging Shepherd.com for Emerging Authors: Ben outlines how authors can use Shepherd.com to gain visibility and connect with their target audience by sharing their favorite books related to their writing themes.
-
The Role of Shepherd.com in the Publishing Ecosystem: Discussion on how Shepherd.com serves as a tool for authors and readers, fostering a community of book lovers and providing an alternative to traditional book discovery methods.
-
Challenges Faced by New Authors: Ben talks about the challenges in the publishing industry, emphasizing the importance of staying optimistic and persistent.
-
Future Developments: Sneak peek into 'Book DNA', an upcoming project by Shepherd.com aimed at enhancing book discovery based on reader preferences and book characteristics.
-
Visit Shepherd.com to discover new books and authors.
-
Support Writers with Wrinkles by subscribing, following, and recommending the podcast.
-
Tune in on January 29th for a special top five deep dive episode.
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In Season 3, Episode 3, Beth McMullen and Lisa Schmid, the co-hosts of Writers with Wrinkles, continue their Big Picture series. They delve into the process of writing and trying to sell a picture book, sharing their journey in real-time with listeners. The episode covers a variety of topics, including the challenges of the book publishing process, the importance of organization in querying, and practical advice on pitch preparation and manuscript submission.
Key Highlights:
-
Revise. Revise. Revise: Lisa shares what work they’ve done to get the manuscript to where it’s as good as they can make it.
-
Querying Experience: Lisa shares her experiences with querying, emphasizing the need for organization and how untracked submissions can lead to awkward situations.
-
Emotional Aspects of Publishing: Beth talks about the emotional side of waiting for feedback and the strategy of distancing oneself from the process.
-
The Pitch for Cat's Rule: The hosts reveal the summary of their picture book, Cat's Rule, focusing on themes of friendship, acceptance, humor, and its appeal to both children and parents.
-
Crafting a Pitch Email: Beth outlines the structure of a pitch email, including author backgrounds, market positioning, and adherence to submission guidelines.
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Research and Preparation: The episode stresses the importance of researching publishers, choosing appropriate comps (comparative titles), and understanding the market. Bitsy Kemper’s wonderful publishers list is discussed.
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Role of Illustrations in Picture Books: Lisa and Beth discuss how illustrations complement the text in picture books and the balance between text and art notes, and provide a trick for how to see the balance.
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Advice on Pitching and Querying: The co-hosts provide practical tips on preparing pitches and understanding the nuances of the query process.
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Collaboration and Motivation: The episode concludes with a lighthearted discussion about their collaborative dynamics and upcoming projects, including a website launch.
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The board is set, the story yet to be written, Join TBW on their wacky adventures!
Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify
Support the show
Website: https://www.writerswithwrinkles.net/
Threads: @WritersWithWrinkles
Insta: @WritersWithWrinklesTwitter: @BethandLisaPodSupport Writers With Wrinkles - become a subscriber
Email: Beth@BethMcMullenBooks.comWriters with Wrinkles Link Tree for more!
Season 3 launches with Kathleen Schmidt, an accomplished vet in the book publishing world. This episode, rich with insights from Kathleen's extensive background as a publicist, literary agent, acquisitions editor, and ghostwriter, is a must-listen for authors navigating the complexities of publishing. Our discussion, full of practical advice and industry secrets, is perfect for those searching for content on authorship, publishing success, and marketing strategies.
Key Discussions:
- Kathleen Schmidt Public Relations: Kathleen explains her firm's specialized services, focusing on customized PR campaigns, branding, marketing, and consultancy tailored to authors and publishing entities.
- Insider View of Book Publishing: Schmidt provides an honest look at the publishing industry, addressing the challenges authors face in traditional publishing and the dynamic shifts happening self-publishing. This is a 'lift the curtain' and demystify episode!
- Effective Social Media Strategies: Offering expert advice on social media usage for book promotion, Kathleen emphasizes the importance of engagement and audience targeting. Understand the importance of identifying what your audience is doing when they're not reading books. Also, things that are not worth your time or effort.
- The Impact of Substack: The episode discusses Kathleen's successful venture, "Publishing Confidential," highlighting its role in offering fresh, industry-specific perspectives. Substack is taking over various industries and is worth checking out.
- Forecasting Publishing Trends: Schmidt shares her insights on future trends, including the potential shift away from the dominance of the big five publishers and the rise of self-publishing.
About Kathleen Schmidt
Kathleen is a well-respected voice in book publishing with in-depth experience in all aspects of the industry, including as a publicist, literary agent, acquisitions editor, and ghostwriter. Her career encompasses 30 years of creating and directing strategic global media, marketing, and branding campaigns for politicians, A-List celebrities, athletes, and high-profile personalities.
She has worked on 50 New York Times bestsellers, and her clients have appeared in top-tier national print, broadcast, and radio outlets such as The Today Show, Good Morning America, Vogue, Elle, Financial Times, Vanity Fair, GQ, and Sirius XM. Kathleen founded Kathleen Schmidt Public Relations and the Substack Publishing Confidential. She lives in New Jersey with her husband, two teenagers, and two Boston Terriers.
Social Links and Website
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The board is set, the story yet to be written, Join TBW on their wacky adventures!
Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify
Support the show
Website: https://www.writerswithwrinkles.net/
Threads: @WritersWithWrinkles
Insta: @WritersWithWrinklesTwitter: @BethandLisaPodSupport Writers With Wrinkles - become a subscriber
Email: Beth@BethMcMullenBooks.comWriters with Wrinkles Link Tree for more!
Join us as we delve into the dynamic world of Young Adult (YA) publishing with literary agent and author, Eric Smith. In this must-listen for aspiring authors and YA enthusiasts, Eric sheds light on why horror is making a big comeback and what genres are currently dominating the YA scene. Whether you're grappling with how to make your manuscript stand out or seeking insights into the latest market trends, this episode is a treasure trove of advice.
Dive into topics like crafting compelling YA romcoms, navigating the crowded YA market, and understanding what literary agents look for in new submissions. Eric also shares his unique perspective on balancing heartfelt storytelling with market demands, offering invaluable tips for budding authors. Plus, get a sneak peek into his upcoming YA romcom, "With or Without You," set against the backdrop of a family food truck rivalry and reality TV drama.
Key takeaways include:
- The resurgence of horror in YA literature.
- Strategies for making your YA manuscript stand out.
- The importance of character development and voice in storytelling.
- Insights into the current trends and future directions of the YA market.
Perfect for writers, literary agents, YA fans, and anyone curious about the behind-the-scenes of the book industry. Don't miss Eric Smith's expert guidance on how to navigate the ever-evolving landscape of YA fiction.
Chapter Breakdown
- Introduction to Eric Smith and YA Trends (Start - 00:45)
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A warm introduction to the episode and a brief overview of Eric Smith's background in the YA publishing industry.
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The Rise of Horror in YA Literature (00:45 - 01:40)
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Eric discusses the increasing popularity of horror in young adult fiction and its appeal to today's readers.
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Current State of the YA Market (01:40 - 02:31)
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An exploration of what's selling in the YA market and how authors can stand out in a crowded field.
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Behind 'With or Without You': A YA Romcom (02:31 - 03:47)
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Eric shares insights into his upcoming YA romcom, including its unique premise and the inspiration behind it.
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Crafting Stories That Resonate: Tips for Aspiring Authors (03:47 - 04:26)
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Practical advice for writers on creating narratives that captivate both readers and agents.
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Balancing Heart and Market Demands (04:26 - 05:15)
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Discussion on how to blend heartfelt storytelling with the commercial aspects necessary for market success.
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Navigating the YA Publishing Landscape (05:15 - 06:24)
- Eric provides his perspective on the current challenges and opportunities in YA publishing.
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The board is set, the story yet to be written, Join TBW on their wacky adventures!
Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify
Support the show
Website: https://www.writerswithwrinkles.net/
Threads: @WritersWithWrinkles
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Email: Beth@BethMcMullenBooks.comWriters with Wrinkles Link Tree for more!
In this encore episode of "Writers with Wrinkles," hosts Beth McMullen and Lisa Schmid talk to Leslie Zampetti, a seasoned literary agent and founder of Open Book Literary. Leslie shares her unique perspectives on the publishing industry, emphasizing underrepresented voices and providing invaluable tips for aspiring authors. Dive into an discussion on querying, submission strategies, and the post-COVID publishing landscape.
Key Takeaways:
- Importance of professionalism and research in querying
- Impact of COVID on the publishing industry and how it's adapting
- Tips for writers to effectively navigate the agent querying process
- Understanding the dynamics between authors, agents, and editors
- Current trends and demands in various literary genres
Mentioned Resources:
- Open Book Literary Agency
- Leslie Zampetti's submission guidelines
Support the Show:
Support Writers With Wrinkles - become a subscriber
Support the show: make a one time donation!
Email: Beth@BethMcMullenBooks.com
Writers with Wrinkles Link Tree for more!
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The board is set, the story yet to be written, Join TBW on their wacky adventures!
Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify
Support the show
Website: https://www.writerswithwrinkles.net/
Threads: @WritersWithWrinkles
Insta: @WritersWithWrinklesTwitter: @BethandLisaPodSupport Writers With Wrinkles - become a subscriber
Email: Beth@BethMcMullenBooks.comWriters with Wrinkles Link Tree for more!
In our season finale, Beth McMullen and Lisa Schmid take a stroll down memory lane, sharing laughs, insights, and valuable lessons from the year 2023. Join us for a quick journey through our favorite episodes, guest highlights, and the wisdom we've gathered along the way. Perfect for aspiring authors, seasoned writers, and literary enthusiasts alike, this episode is a treasure trove of inspiration and practical advice.
Mentioned in This Episode:
- "Writing Spooky Middle Grade Fiction" episode
- Guest appearances: Jennifer March-Soloway, Kathleen Schmidt, Leslie Zampetti, Elizabeth Eulberg, Eric Smith
- Topics: Querying agents, publishing processes, handling reviews, collaborating in the literary industry
- Join our conversation on Threads at @WritersWithWrinkles
Special Year End Thanks:
A heartfelt thank you to all our guests and listeners for making this season so fun. Your support, feedback, and engagement have been the backbone of our journey.
Upcoming:
Stay tuned for Season 3, kicking off on January 8th with marketing expert Kathleen Schmidt, and more exciting guests and topics to come!
Support the Show:
If you enjoy "Writers with Wrinkles," please rate and review us on your favorite podcast platform. Your support helps us reach more listeners!
Support Writers With Wrinkles - become a subscriber
Support the show: make a one time donation!
Email: Beth@BethMcMullenBooks.comWriters with Wrinkles Link Tree for more!
Support the show
Website: https://www.writerswithwrinkles.net/
Threads: @WritersWithWrinkles
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Email: Beth@BethMcMullenBooks.comWriters with Wrinkles Link Tree for more!
NYT Bestselling Author Jason June joins us to talk about an early career pivot that led to great success, how to successfully think about and write across different genres, and what he wishes he'd known when he started out.
About Jason June
Jason June is a best-selling author of young adult novels that celebrate queer love and lust and chaotically gay shenanigans. His works include Jay’s Gay Agenda, Riley Weaver Needs a Date to the Gaybutante Ball, The Spells We Cast, and the instant New York Times best-seller, Out of the Blue. When not writing, JJ zips about Dallas, Texas, with his husband and their Pomeranian, Pom Brokaw. JJ is a tried and true Laura Dern stan, and he is actively looking for an Andalite friend. Find out more about JJ and his books at www.heyjasonjune.com.
Connect with Jason June
Instagram
X (Twitter)
Website
Substack Newsletter - Ventorship with Jason June!
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The board is set, the story yet to be written, Join TBW on their wacky adventures!
Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify
Support the show
Website: https://www.writerswithwrinkles.net/
Threads: @WritersWithWrinkles
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Email: Beth@BethMcMullenBooks.comWriters with Wrinkles Link Tree for more!
With episode 57, we kick off "The Big Picture," a new segment where we walk you through the process of preparing and submitting a picture book for publication.
Today we talk about receiving, digesting, and implementing feedback. Our special highlight is an exclusive insight into the valuable critiques provided by Lynn Marie, the founder of "Rate Your Story." Her expert feedback is instrumental in refining our picture book project, offering a unique perspective on the manuscript's development.
We also discuss how critiquing can become your personal growth engine. We'll break down the do's and don'ts of handling critical feedback, and the importance of ditching defensiveness for a mindset open to learning. So, grab your notebooks and join us as we navigate the journey together!
Support the show
Website: https://www.writerswithwrinkles.net/
Threads: @WritersWithWrinkles
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Email: Beth@BethMcMullenBooks.comWriters with Wrinkles Link Tree for more!
Get ready to dive into the enchanting world of children's literature with Heather Macht and Lynne Marie, the creative minds behind the hit platform, 'Seasons of Kidlit'.
Discover how their shared passion for festive holidays, especially the allure of Halloween, transformed into a thriving platform promoting children's books.
This episode offers a deep dive into their collaborative journey, highlighting key strategies in author marketing and community building. Learn how they've made a mark in the literary world, particularly with their unique focus on spooky children's stories and holiday-themed books.
Join us for an engaging discussion filled with insights on publishing, book promotion, and celebrating the joy of reading with kids.
Visit Seasons of Kidlit
Visit Rate Your Story
About the Authors
Heather is the Owner / Creator of #SeasonsOfKidLit. She's thrilled to bring her passion to life and promote books with seasonal and holiday tie-ins. She's also the author of 15 books including The Mutant Critter Sitter (ABDO, 2024), a six-book chapter book series featuring #girlpower, responsibility, spliced mutant creations, and science-filled fun. The Woodlot Monster Mysteries (ABDO, 2023), a 6-book Chapter Book Series featuring less-common monsters, and promoting #girlpower, problem solving, and teamwork and more! Find Heather at: website, FaceBook, Instagram, Twitter,
Lynne Marie is a #KidLit Author, an Agent Mentee with The Seymour Agency, the Director of Rate Your Story and spirited lover of Holidays, Halloween, and all things spooky. As a child, her favorite book was Chase's Book of Days which lists all the holidays. Five of her published and pending picture books are all Holiday Tie-ins. Find Lynne Marie at: website, FaceBook, Instagram, Twitter
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The board is set, the story yet to be written, Join TBW on their wacky adventures!
Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify
Support the show
Website: https://www.writerswithwrinkles.net/
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Email: Beth@BethMcMullenBooks.comWriters with Wrinkles Link Tree for more!
Can you use AI to augment and amplify your creative endeavors? Can you use it to do stuff you don’t want to? Yes!!
Tune in to hear about an experiment in creating a mini-marketing effort around holiday sales of Mrs. Smith’s Spy School for Girls trilogy using AI to create content and produce a list of independent bookstores.
(to go deeper, visit the You CAN Write a Book! Substack)
Also, GoodReads sucks and you’ll want to know why. :)
Join us for episode 55!
Support the show
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Email: Beth@BethMcMullenBooks.comWriters with Wrinkles Link Tree for more!
Erika Lewis has written novels, comics and graphic novels. She has deep experience collaborating with other creators. What we talked about:
- how her childhood riding dirt bikes and roller skates shape the adventurous world of Kelcie Murphy
- how her books like "Game of Shadows" and "The Color of Dragons" compare to the Kelcie Murphy series
- the nuts and bolts of collaboration with outer authors and how she makes sure it works!
- the challenges of working across multiple mediums and what keeps her hooked
- how to break the rules for success!
About ErikaErika Lewis grew up in Alexandria, Virginia, where she spent most of her childhood speeding through the neighborhood on her dirt bike, roller skates or anything they could build with wheels. After graduating from Vanderbilt University, she went on to earn a master’s degree from Georgia State University and an advanced certificate in creative writing from Stony Brook University. In addition to the Kelcie Murphy series she is the author of Game of Shadows, The Color of Dragons, Firebrand, and more. Her latest release, Kelcie Murphy and the Hunt for the Heart of Danu came out in July, and the final book in the series will be released in 2024.
Find Erikawebsite: https://www.erikalewis.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/erikaelylewis/
tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@erikalewisauthor?lang=en
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheErikaLewis
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The board is set, the story yet to be written, Join TBW on their wacky adventures!
Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify
Support the show
Website: https://www.writerswithwrinkles.net/
Threads: @WritersWithWrinkles
Insta: @WritersWithWrinklesTwitter: @BethandLisaPodSupport Writers With Wrinkles - become a subscriber
Email: Beth@BethMcMullenBooks.comWriters with Wrinkles Link Tree for more!
Welcome to another Top Five Deep Dive episode!
Today, we dive deep into creating a strong opening for your novel. Key takeaways:
- Start with Action or Intrigue
- Introduce a Relatable Character
- Pose Questions or Create Conflict
- Use Vivid Description and Sensory Detail
- Craft an Engaging First Line (listen for our examples)
Listen for all the important details!
Whether you're just starting your writing journey or are a seasoned author, there's something here for everyone.
Remember to subscribe and leave us a review on your favorite podcast platform to stay updated with our latest episodes. Be sure to connect with us on social!
Support the show
Website: https://www.writerswithwrinkles.net/
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Email: Beth@BethMcMullenBooks.comWriters with Wrinkles Link Tree for more!
Have you ever dreamed of writing a book with a friend or an author you admire? How do you make it work? What are the most important elements of the relationship? Today we peek inside a successful collaborative writing partnership of acclaimed authors E.E. Charlton-Trujillo and Pat Zietlow Miller. We'll take you through their extraordinary partnership, from their initial meeting, to their joint ventures, including the Lupe Lopez series and A Girl Can Build Anything books.
Pat and E.E. share their experience of collaboration, revealing how they work with an illustrator and how they resolve disagreements. They also discuss the importance of understanding storytelling structure and finding the perfect rhythm in language. So, be it getting the first sentence right or finding the perfect ending, our guests cover it all.
Beyond the mechanics, we also discuss the themes of resilience and diversity, how these themes find their way into their stories and the impact they have on young readers.
We close with a discussion about the importance of authentic representation in children's books. It's not just about telling a story, but about telling a story that everyone can see themselves in.
Join us!
Pat Zietlow Miller
In addition to being the coauthor of the Lupe Lopez series, Pat is the author of the New York Times best-selling Be Kind, and My Brother the Duck, among many other books for young readers. She lives in Madison, Wisconsin.
Mentioned in the pod: Pat's list of 'practically perfect in every way' picture books. Find Pat on social:
Twitter
LinkedIn
Pinterest
Instagram
e.E. Charlton-TrujilloE is a literary activist, filmmaker and coauthor of Lupe Lopez series as well as the author of the award-winning young-adult novel Fat Angie and its two sequels. They live in Texas.
Mentioned in the pod: E's list of recommended picture books. Find E on Social:
Twitter
Instagram
Facebook
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The board is set, the story yet to be written, Join TBW on their wacky adventures!
Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify
Support the show
Website: https://www.writerswithwrinkles.net/
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Email: Beth@BethMcMullenBooks.comWriters with Wrinkles Link Tree for more!
Ready to unlock the full potential of Substack?
We're here to answer WHAT, WHY and HOW of this platform, where independent publishing meets community building. Discover the features offered, including content creation and promotion, subscription models, monetization, and more. We're going to help you answer a critical question – is Substack the right fit for you? Remember, there's no wrong answer here, only exciting opportunities!
Next, we get into the HOW of building and promoting a successful Substack newsletter. We look at carving out a niche, defining your audience, and delivering consistent, high-quality content. This episode is more than a guide – it's your stepping stone to becoming a Substack superstar!
Support the show
Website: https://www.writerswithwrinkles.net/
Threads: @WritersWithWrinkles
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Email: Beth@BethMcMullenBooks.comWriters with Wrinkles Link Tree for more!
Ever wondered how an idea evolves into a complete picture book?
Tune into our conversation with the New York Times bestselling author Ame Dyckman as she pulls back the curtain on the magical world of picture book writing. Ame shares her process and offers priceless tips on story development, the art of collaboration and the importance of knowing the marketplace.
Ame also underscores the vital role of genuine emotions in picture books for them to resonate with young readers. If you're a seasoned author or a budding writer, this episode is your treasure chest of insightful tips, delightful anecdotes, and infectious humor. Don't miss out!
About Ame DyckmanAme is the award-winning author of 18 funny books for children; including BOY + BOT; the New York Times bestselling WOLFIE THE BUNNY; the MISUNDERSTOOD SHARK books; etc.—with many more books on the way!
New for 2023 are HOW DINOSAURS WENT EXTINCT: A SAFETY GUIDE; TINY BARBARIAN CONQUERS THE KRAKEN!; and Ame’s 19thbook, DON’T BLOW YOUR TOP!, which pubs on October 17th! Website: http://www.amedyckman.com/ Twitter: @AmeDyckman
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The board is set, the story yet to be written, Join TBW on their wacky adventures!
Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify
Support the show
Website: https://www.writerswithwrinkles.net/
Threads: @WritersWithWrinkles
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Email: Beth@BethMcMullenBooks.comWriters with Wrinkles Link Tree for more!
Welcome to another Top Five Deep Dive episode!
(who doesn't love a top five list?!?!)
Today, we delve deep into the captivating world of writing voice. Key takeaways will help you refine your writing voice and elevate your storytelling to new heights. Whether you're just starting your writing journey or are a seasoned author, there's something here for everyone.
Remember to subscribe and leave us a review on your favorite podcast platform to stay updated with our latest episodes. Be sure to connect with us on social!
AND don't miss our special guest Lucy, the pug!
Mentioned in the podcast: check out this character profile worksheet from editor and story consultant Lara Willard!
Support the show
Website: https://www.writerswithwrinkles.net/
Threads: @WritersWithWrinkles
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Join us on a captivating adventure with renowned author Elizabeth Eulberg, whose latest middle grade book Scared Silly #2: Zombie Wedding Crashers, is out NOW!
Elizabeth generously shares her journey, from securing her Global Talent Visa, to the deep inspiration she draws from the city in her work.
We do a deep dive into what makes a series work and how to handle reviews.
Whether it's a glowing editorial review or a dreaded one-star rating on Goodreads, Eulberg preaches balance - cherishing honest feedback during the writing process, whilst acknowledging that post-release reviews are usually beyond an author's control. Buckle up for this enriching ride with Elizabeth Eulberg.
Find Elizabeth Eulberg: Twitter, Instagram, Website
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The board is set, the story yet to be written, Join TBW on their wacky adventures!
Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify
Support the show
Website: https://www.writerswithwrinkles.net/
Threads: @WritersWithWrinkles
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Email: Beth@BethMcMullenBooks.comWriters with Wrinkles Link Tree for more!
Do the words 'book marketing' make you cry?
Yeah, we get that. On today's episode, we start to navigate that terrifying world, but we're doing it together and it's going to be fun! Once a month, we'll go deep into a marketing topic and figure out the ways you can implement it into your overall strategy without becoming overwhelmed and paralyzed.
Join us for the premier of Marketing Monday!
Support the show
Website: https://www.writerswithwrinkles.net/
Threads: @WritersWithWrinkles
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Email: Beth@BethMcMullenBooks.comWriters with Wrinkles Link Tree for more!
Prepare to be enchanted as we chat with Eric Geron, a masterful storyteller and New York Times bestselling author. In this candid conversation, Eric takes you on his journey of becoming an author, while shedding light on the often mysterious process of creating a graphic novel. Even if you're not an illustrator, Eric's insights on the genre and crafting his debut graphic novel, Fry Guys, will inspire you to pen your own visual story - mad drawing skills or not!
Join us for this memorable chat and seize your chance to learn from the best. You don’t want to miss this one!
Also, in this episode:
- switching genres as an author
- writing under a pseudonym
- writing software
About Eric GeronEric is the #1 New York Times bestselling author of The Hocus Pocus Spell Book, Poultrygeist, A Tale of Two Princes, and Bye Bye, Binary, along with numerous other titles, including the New York Times bestselling Descendants novelization under the name Rico Green. He earned his creative writing degree from the University of Miami and spent many years at Disney as an editor of New York Times bestselling books. He currently resides in New York City.
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The board is set, the story yet to be written, Join TBW on their wacky adventures!
Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify
Support the show
Website: https://www.writerswithwrinkles.net/
Threads: @WritersWithWrinkles
Insta: @WritersWithWrinklesTwitter: @BethandLisaPodSupport Writers With Wrinkles - become a subscriber
Email: Beth@BethMcMullenBooks.comWriters with Wrinkles Link Tree for more!
Want to hear the secret sauce for writing compelling dialogue? We've got the recipe! This episode is your golden ticket to mastering the art of authentic and engaging dialogue that rings true for your characters. We delve into how written dialogue differs from everyday conversation, and how to ensure that each line uttered by your characters enhances your narrative.
We talk about regional language, slang and dialects and how to use them best, as well as how eavesdropping might be good after all! Whether you’re an experienced writer or just starting out, this episode is a treasure trove of tips, tricks and techniques to perfect your dialogue writing skills. Buckle up for a fun-filled, informative journey!
Support the showTwitter: @BethandLisaPod
Insta: @WritersWithWrinklesBluesky: @bethandlisapod.bsky.socialBookshop.org site for books mentioned in the episodes!Support Writers With Wrinkles - become a subscriber
Support the show: make a one time donation!
Email: Beth@BethMcMullenBooks.comWriters with Wrinkles Link Tree for more!
Are you wondering how to navigate the tricky waters of querying agents with your fabulous new manuscript? Imagine the insight you could gain from picking the brain of a senior agent from a top literary agency. That's exactly what we've done in this episode. Jennifer March-Solloway from the Andrea Brown Literary Agency, answers questions like: when is your manuscript ready for querying? Do you run the risk of querying too early? What is the best way to start your story to be sure the agent will turn the page? How should you end a pages submission so agents can't help but ask for the full?
So tune in, sit back and let Jennifer shine a light on your important questions. It's an episode you can't afford to miss.
Support the showTwitter: @BethandLisaPod
Insta: @WritersWithWrinklesBookshop.org site for books mentioned in the episodes! Support Writers With Wrinkles - become a subscriber
Support the show: make a one time donation!
Email: Beth@BethMcMullenBooks.comWriters with Wrinkles Link Tree for more!
Books on Botox is back!
This week we take a look at Yours Truly, a contemporary romance by Abby Jimenez as an example of how to succeed with dual Points Of View.
And why Jake Burt's novel The Tornado is a dazzling example of how to write authentically about bullying in middle school.
Don't miss it!
Support the showTwitter: @BethandLisaPod
Are you stuck trying to figure out whether your work in progress is middle grade or young adult fiction? Are you stressed out that you don't know where your book fits on the shelf?
This episode with industry-savvy editor Sangeeta Mehta, tackles the rules to follow about where a book fits, from character ages and topics discussed, to book length and protagonist's voice. We discuss regional sensibilities and how they impact bookstore decisions; whether the industry should embrace an upper middle grade category and what to do with a book that doesn't fit neatly into either YA or middle grade.
Join us!
Support the showTwitter: @BethandLisaPod
Writing a series is no joke! It's hard enough to write one novel, but 2 or 4 or 8? You're going to want to listen to this list of tips critical to creating a sustainable series.
1. Pick your genre carefully
2. Consider type
3. Setting is crucial.
4. Have a plan
5. Use secondary characters
Bonus: Know when to say peace out and move on!
Make sure to tune in for all the gory details!
Support the showTwitter: @BethandLisaPod
Are book covers important for an author? How about platform building? Are school visits a viable author side hustle?
On Episode 40, we dig into these questions, and so many more, with award winning author Lindsey Currie. Don't miss it!
Visit Lindsey (and see the cover for It Found Us!) at www.lindsaycurrie.com
Pre-order a signed copy of Lindsey's forthcoming book - It Found Us.
About Lindsey Currie
Lindsay is the author of 4 spooky middle grade novels including THE PECULIAR INCIDENT ON SHADY STREET, SCRITCH SCRATCH, WHAT LIVES IN THE WOODS and THE GIRL IN WHITE. While she's never experienced anything truly paranormal, Lindsay enjoys researching her city's forgotten history and learning about the events that shaped the many ghost legends in Chicago.
When she's not reading or writing a mystery novel of her own, Lindsay can be found taking long walks with her family, chilling with her dog, or searching the graveyard for her next antagonist.
Visit Lindsey at Lindseycurrie.com Support the showTwitter: @BethandLisaPod
Insta: @WritersWithWrinklesBookshop.org site for books mentioned in the episodes! Support Writers With Wrinkles - become a subscriber
Support the show: make a one time donation!
Email: Beth@BethMcMullenBooks.comWriters with Wrinkles Link Tree for more!
This week on Writers With Wrinkles Books on Botox we look at the critical ingredient to making a series succeed. And how humor in the first person can keep a reader turning pages.
Don't miss it!
Books discussed:
The Bullet That Missed, by Richard Osman
The Polter-ghost Problem, by Betsey Uhrig
PS: we are moving most of our activity to Instagram, so please visit us there! @WritersWithWrinkles
Support the showTwitter: @BethandLisaPod
Insta: @WritersWithWrinklesBookshop.org site for books mentioned in the episodes! Support Writers With Wrinkles - become a subscriber
Support the show: make a one time donation!
Email: Beth@BethMcMullenBooks.comWriters with Wrinkles Link Tree for more!
Have you been wondering why horror is so popular right now? Do you want to know what is selling in YA and why? How about ways to make your story stand out to acquiring editors in a crowded field? Or maybe you want insight into why an agent passed on your manuscript?
On episode 38, we get into the details with agent and author Eric Smith and answer these questions. We also look at what to include in a query letter to get Eric's attentiona nd why you should stop obsessing over including the inciting incident in chapter one. Also....what is on the top of Eric's current wish list!
Don't miss the information packed episode!
Visit Eric's website for query letter examples and non-fiction book proposals.
Pre-order Eric's forthcoming YA novel, With or Without You
About Eric SmithEric is a literary agent and Young Adult author from Elizabeth, New Jersey. As an agent with P.S. Literary, he’s worked on New York Times bestselling and award-winning books. His recent novels include the YALSA Best Books for Young Readers selection Don’t Read the Comments (Inkyard Press, 2020), You Can Go Your Own Way (Inkyard Press, 2021), and the anthologies Battle of the Bands (Candlewick, 2021) and First-Year Orientation (Candlewick, 2023), both co-edited with award-winning author Lauren Gibaldi.
Last year, Abrams published his book Jagged Little Pill: The Novel, which was written in collaboration with Alanis Morissette, Academy award-winner Diablo Cody, and Glen Ballard, and is an adaptation of the Grammy and Tony award winning musical. He lives in Philadelphia with his wife and son, and enjoys video games, pop punk, and crying over every movie.
Support the showTwitter: @BethandLisaPod
Insta: @WritersWithWrinklesBookshop.org site for books mentioned in the episodes! Support Writers With Wrinkles - become a subscriber
Support the show: make a one time donation!
Email: Beth@BethMcMullenBooks.comWriters with Wrinkles Link Tree for more!
Join us as we test drive a new format!
Our NEW Top Five Deep Dive is a list of writing tips you will want to keep handy as you journey through your manuscript (believe us, it IS a journey!)
This week, we talk about spooky middle grade, a very hot segment of book sales right now.
Tips include:
- Start with a great hook - attention spans are limited!
- Keep the pace fast. Building suspense throughout the story is critical to keeping the young reader’s interest.
- Use humor to offset scary scenes. Children respond better to humor and may be more tolerant of scary scenes if they can relieve the tension with jokes.
- Make the protagonist a strong, likable character with a side of flaws. This is super important in middle-grade fiction, where the reader identifies closely with the main character.
- Have a happy ending. (right??)
Also, the ear plugs discussed? Find them HERE.
Support the showTwitter: @BethandLisaPod
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Support the show: make a one time donation!
Email: Beth@BethMcMullenBooks.comWriters with Wrinkles Link Tree for more!
What we are talking about:
- how to write authentically about neurodivergent characters and foster understanding among readers;
- how to tackle difficult subjects in your writing
- how a setting inspired The Fire, The Water and Maudi McGinn, (out 7/11!!)
About Sally J. Pla
Sally’s books have been translated into many languages, garnered starred reviews, appeared on many ‘best book’ and state lists, and picked up a few awards along the way. But the best thing they’ve done is connect her to young readers. Her books include The Someday Birds, Stanley Will Probably Be Fine, Benji, The Bad Day, And Me, and her latest, The Fire, The Water, and Maudie McGinn, from HarperCollins Quill Tree Books which publishes July 11th which is tomorrow so go and buy it or request it at your local library as soon as this podcast is over. Okay? Good. Author Elana K. Arnold called Maudie McGinn “a gorgeous, bighearted, beautiful book.” And Publishers Weekly just gave it its first star.
Sally also runs A Novel Mind, a web resource on neurodiversity and mental health representation in children's lit that is dedicated to helping connect kids with the books they need. Sally, who’s autistic, has English degrees from Colgate and Penn State, and has worked as a journalist and in public education. Actually, she’s had lots of different jobs. And has lived in lots of different places. Find her at sallyjpla.com.
Support the showTwitter: @BethandLisaPod
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Support the show: make a one time donation!
Email: Beth@BethMcMullenBooks.comWriters with Wrinkles Link Tree for more!
Books on Botox is BACK!!
This week we look at ways to find writing inspiration and killer plots right in your own backyard. And how flipping the script on a conventional plot can give you a new perspective, and possibly a best selling novel.
Books reviewed:
Killers of a Certain Age, by Deanna Raybourn
The Peculiar Incident on Shady Street, by Lindsey Currie.
Support the showTwitter: @BethandLisaPod
What we are talking about:
- what to do and how to practice if you are switching genres as an author
- foolproof ways to make your pace lightning fast
- and, do you still need to do your homework if your idea is super original?? (hint: yes)
About Misa Sugiura
Misa's ancestors include a poet, a priestess, a samurai, and a stowaway. Momo Arashima Steals the Sword of the Wind is her first middle-grade novel and is inspired by the gods and monsters of her parents' home country, Japan. Misa is also the author of three young-adult novels: her debut novel, It's Not Like It's a Secret, which won the ALA Asian American LIterature Award, and the critically acclaimed This Time Will Be Different and Love & Other Natural Disasters. Misa was born and raised in Chicagoland but eventually found her way to her true home in Northern California, where she lives under a giant oak tree with her husband, two sons, and a cat named Mouse.
Support the showTwitter: @BethandLisaPod
Insta: @WritersWithWrinklesBookshop.org site for books mentioned in the episodes! Support Writers With Wrinkles - become a subscriber
Support the show: make a one time donation!
Email: Beth@BethMcMullenBooks.comWriters with Wrinkles Link Tree for more!
A head’s up that we are changing the show format by splitting Books on Botox and the Hot Writing Tips into separate episodes. This lets us spend more time on both without ending up with a show that is just too freaking long. We hope it works for you and please share your feedback with us because that helps a lot.
Today we are talking about unreliable narrators.
Definition: A narrator is “unreliable” when we have reasons to doubt the versions of events he or she is presenting to us as factual in a story. For whatever reason, the narrator isn’t disclosing isn’t telling us the whole truth or is purposely hiding important parts of the story.
Listen in to hear how to use the unreliable to tell a page turning story!
Support the showTwitter: @BethandLisaPod
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Support the show: make a one time donation!
Email: Beth@BethMcMullenBooks.comWriters with Wrinkles Link Tree for more!
Join us for a conversation with nonfiction author Rebecca Barone (Race to the Bottom of the Earth: Surviving Antarctica; Unbreakable: The Spies Who Cracked the Nazis' Secret Code; Mountain of Fire (coming Spring 2024).
Approximately 3.5 million non fiction books are published each year, a full 88percent of all books published. So how do you write non fiction that is as thrilling as a page turning novel? What ingredients are essential to nonfiction success? Listen in to find out.
About Rebecca Barone
Rebeccais an engineer and author. She has worked on technical projects as diverse as injury analysis for the NFL and engine calibration for hybrid cars. Realizing her love of books in addition to numbers, she now describes the world with words rather than equations. Her first two books, Race to the Bottom of the Earth: Surviving Antarctica and Unbreakable: The Spies Who Cracked the Nazis’ Secret Code, received a combined nine starred reviews and were featured on numerous “Best of” lists. She lives in Ohio with her family. Visit her at rebeccaefbarone.com
Support the showTwitter: @BethandLisaPod
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Support the show: make a one time donation!
Email: Beth@BethMcMullenBooks.comWriters with Wrinkles Link Tree for more!
What does it take to be a "good" mother?
Join us as we dive into the dystopian world of Jessamine Chan's The School for Good Mothers, and talk about her take on the destructive nature of the idea of perfect motherhood. This novel illustrates how an everyday, normal thing like motherhood can be pushed to the limits of imagination and become something terrifying.
We venture into a different realm with Henry Herz's nonfiction picture book, I Am Smoke, and examine how this mesmerizing book entertains and educates by taking the unique approach of telling the story from the point of view of smoke.
And yes, we do take a mini left turn into celebrity authors and whether they are taking resources from other writers and ultimately, not earning it back.
This week's Hot Tip is - lean into being educated about publishing and save yourself from potential stress and hardship later!
Support the showTwitter: @BethandLisaPod
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Support the show: make a one time donation!
Email: Beth@BethMcMullenBooks.comWriters with Wrinkles Link Tree for more!
Join us as we talk to Hannah McKinnon, author of the recently released The Darlings. Hannah discusses the importance of reinvention and why you need to do your homework before querying agents and publishers. There is such great advice in this episode. Don't miss it!
About Hannah
Hannah Roberts McKinnon is the award winning author of 8 women's fiction and beach read novels with Simon and Schuster. Her titles include Message in the Sand, The View From Here, Sailing Lessons, The Summer House, Mystic Summer, and The Lake Season. And the recently released The Darlings, which came out May 2nd and is doing great. She previously published two YA novels, Franny Parker and The Properties of Water, with FSG/MacMillan.
Hannah lives in Fairfield County, CT with her family. When not spending time with family and friends or writing in her home office she can be found in her backyard chasing chickens, wrangling rescue dogs, or at the lake.
Visit on Instagram at @hannahmckinnonwrites.
Support the showTwitter: @BethandLisaPod
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Support the show: make a one time donation!
Email: Beth@BethMcMullenBooks.comWriters with Wrinkles Link Tree for more!
Episode 29
Remarkably Bright Creatures, by Shelby Van Pelt
The Fire, the Water, and Maudie McGinn, by Sally J. Pla
Visit our Bookshop.org site for all our featured books!
For today's Hot Writing Tip, we discuss the questions you should ask your current agent or an agent you are considering working with. Important stuff, people!!
Support the showTwitter: @BethandLisaPod
Join us as we talk to middle grade writers Lisa and Matt McMann! Matt talks about the driving idea behind his new middle grade mystery series Monsterious, how he plotted multiple stories creating a unique pitch for publishers and how is debut year has gone. Lisa offers some practical marketing advice that you won't want to miss.
About Matt
As a professional musician, Matt McMann played an NFL stadium, a cruise ship, and the International Twins Convention. Now he writes the kind of spooky mystery-adventure books he loved as a kid. He’s hiked the Pacific Northwest, cruised Loch Ness, and chased a ghost on a mountain. While he missed Bigfoot and Nessie, he caught the ghost. He enjoys brainstorming new books with his wife, New York Times bestselling author Lisa McMann; viewing his son Kilian McMann’s artwork; and watching his daughter, actor Kennedy McMann, on television. Visit him online at mattmcmann.com, and follow him on Twitter and Instagram @matt_mcmann. Matt’s newest series Monsterious hit shelves on May 9th and is available everywhere you buy books.
About LisaNew York Times bestselling author Lisa McMann splits her time between Tempe, AZ, Sacramento, CA, and Vancouver, BC. She is married to fellow children's author, Matt McMann.
In her spare time, Lisa likes to take walks along Tempe Town Lake and on the Arizona State University campus, shop at local stores, and cook. She also enjoys watching TV and movies, and loves to read fantasy, realistic fiction, memoirs, and books about cooking.
Lisa is the author of over two dozen books for young adults and children. Some of her most well-known books are The Unwanteds series for middle grade readers and the Wake trilogy for young adults. She hopes to keep writing books for a long time.
Support the showTwitter: @BethandLisaPod
Insta: @WritersWithWrinklesBookshop.org site for books mentioned in the episodes! Support Writers With Wrinkles - become a subscriber
Support the show: make a one time donation!
Email: Beth@BethMcMullenBooks.comWriters with Wrinkles Link Tree for more!
In episode 27, we feature:
Empire of Pain, by Patrick Radden Keefe
Paris On Repeat, by Amy Bearce
Visit our Bookshop.org site for all our featured books!
For today's Hot Writing Tip, we talk about FORESHADOWING! Oh, we go deep into why @taylorswift13 is the BEST. You want to listen. Trust us.
Twitter: @BethandLisaPod
Erinn Pascal joins us to talk about how authors can make a submission stand out, the acquisition process, the importance (or not) of an author platform and what's currently on her manuscript wishlist. Oh, and we get into dogs and cats, too.
Don't miss it!
About Erinn Pascal
Erinn is the senior editor for kids’ books and licensing at Andrews McMeel Universal. Prior to AMU, she held editorial positions at Scholastic, Disney, and Simon & Schuster. Erinn grew up in Pembroke Pines, FL and graduated with a BFA in Writing, Literature & Publishing from Emerson College in Boston, MA. When not editing, Erinn can be found “vegan”-izing family Colombian and Jewish recipes; taking her mini Bernedoodle, Obi, to the dog park; doing Pilates; or browsing the local farmer’s market for fresh veggies. She currently lives in Los Angeles and welcomes any suggestions for laser tag in Southern California, but fair warning: she is competitive.
Twitter: @BethandLisaPod
Insta: @WritersWithWrinklesBookshop.org site for books mentioned in the episodes! Support Writers With Wrinkles - become a subscriber
Email: Beth@BethMcMullenBooks.comWriters with Wrinkles Link Tree for more!
In episode 25, we feature:
My Sister, the Serial Killer, by Oyinkan Braithwaite
The Doll's Eye, by Marina Cohen
Visit our Bookshop.org site for all our featured books!
For today's Hot Writing Tip, we talk about repurposing chapters or characters edited out of a manuscript in new and exciting ways!
Twitter: @BethandLisaPod
Mychal Threets joins us to discuss the challenges of public libraries, the importance of access for all and to spread some joy for stories in all their forms.
About Mychal
Mychal Threets is a Supervising Librarian for Solano County Library and a library influencer. He got his first library card and first library job at the library branch he currently supervises. He grew up in Solano County, and was raised by books and libraries
Find Mychal and his super fun videos on Twitter.
Giveaway!
Win a copy of the Lola Benko series on audiobook!
To enter: Follow Writers With Wrinkles on Twitter or Instagram, or follow Beth on Twitter or Instagram
US only. Ends April 30th.
Twitter: @BethandLisaPod
Insta: @WritersWithWrinklesBookshop.org site for books mentioned in the episodes! Support Writers With Wrinkles - become a subscriber
Email: Beth@BethMcMullenBooks.comWriters with Wrinkles Link Tree for more!
In episode 23, we feature:
The Thursday Murder Club, by Richard Osman
The Chameleon Wore Chartreuse: A Chet Gecko Mystery, by Bruce Hale
Visit our Bookshop.org site for all our featured books!
For today's Hot Writing Tip, we talk about how to avoid mistakes when querying agents.
Twitter: @BethandLisaPod
Author Lisa Fipps talks about how critical empathy is to writing for kids, prose v. writing in verse and how to connect with characters.
About Lisa
With her debut middle-grade novel, Starfish, Lisa Fipps won 13 awards, including the 2022 Michael L. Printz Honor Book Award, and the novel in verse was selected for 36 state award/book lists. She’s done virtual and in-person author visits with thousands of children in America, Canada, and China, in addition to being a guest speaker and panelist at festivals and conferences. Starfish has been translated into Turkish, Korean, and Spanish, and will soon be coming out in other languages. Her second middle-grade novel in verse will be released in spring 2024. Lisa is also an award-winning former journalist, and an award-winning former library marketing director. She currently lives in Indiana and lived in Texas.
Find her on Twitter and Instagram.
Twitter: @BethandLisaPod
Insta: @WritersWithWrinklesBookshop.org site for books mentioned in the episodes! Support Writers With Wrinkles - become a subscriber
Email: Beth@BethMcMullenBooks.comWriters with Wrinkles Link Tree for more!
In episode 121, we feature :
Night Shift, by Stephen King
The Vanishing of Aveline Jones, by Phil Hickes
Visit our Bookshop.org site for all our featured books!
For today's Hot Writing Tip, we talk about the dreaded synopsis and what is critical to include and what to leave out.
Twitter: @BethandLisaPod
Richard Knight, author, features writer and content provider, joins us to discuss the ins and outs of writing for online magazines and content services. He also shares a sneak peak of his latest middle grade fiction project and it's so good!
Find Rich on Twitter or CinemaBlend.
About Richard KnightRich Knight is a teacher by day, and a writer by night. He has written for several publications, including The Source, Complex Magazine, Weight Watchers, and XXL. He currently writes feature articles for Cinemablend.com, and still (somehow) finds the time to play with his two wonderful children, and work on his next novel. He is represented by the amazing agent, Ann Rose, at The Tobias Literary Agency.
Twitter: @BethandLisaPod
Insta: @WritersWithWrinklesBookshop.org site for books mentioned in the episodes! Support Writers With Wrinkles - become a subscriber
Email: Beth@BethMcMullenBooks.comWriters with Wrinkles Link Tree for more!
In episode 19, we feature How Not to Drown in a Glass of Water, by Angie Cruz and; Fluffy McWhiskers Cuteness Explosion, by Stephen W. Martin.
Visit our Bookshop.org site for all our featured books!
For today's Hot Writing Tip, we talk about how to get your arms around descriptions without overwriting.
Twitter: @BethandLisaPod
Award winning author illustrator Jarrett Lerner talks about how to write through hard topics, how to get to know yourself better in order to maximize output and ways to make school visits shine!
About JarrettAuthor-illustrator Jarrett Lerner is the award-winning creator of the EngiNerds series of Middle Grade novels, the Geeger the Robot series of early chapter books, the activity books Give This Book a Title and Give This Book a Cover, The Hunger Heroes series of graphic novel chapter books, and the Nat the Cat series of early readers. Jarrett is also the creator of the forthcoming illustrated novel in verse A Work in Progress, as well as several as-yet-unannounced projects. All of Jarrett’s books are published by Simon & Schuster. In addition to writing, drawing, and visiting schools and libraries across the country, Jarrett co-founded and co-organizes the #KidsNeedBooks and #KidsNeedMentors projects, and regularly spearheads fundraisers for various reading- and book-related causes. He is also the founder and operator of Jarrett Lerner’s Creator Club. He can be found at jarrettlerner.com and on Twitter and Instagram at @Jarrett_Lerner. He lives with his wife and daughters in Massachusetts.
Extra News!Beth's tenth novel publishes March 7th! Secret of the Storm: Land of Dragons is the second book in the series. Cats, dragons, friendship, family, secrets, mystery, action, adventure, humor.
Pick up your copy wherever you buy books! (Simon & Schuster)
Twitter: @BethandLisaPod
Insta: @WritersWithWrinklesBookshop.org site for books mentioned in the episodes! Support Writers With Wrinkles - become a subscriber
Email: Beth@BethMcMullenBooks.comWriters with Wrinkles Link Tree for more!
In episode 17, we feature Someone Else's Shoes, by Jojo Moyes, and; The Gideon Trilogy, by Linda Buckley Archer
Visit our Bookshop.org site for all our featured books!
For today's Hot Writing Tip, we talk about how to get to know your character and find your voice by writing a character diary or creating a character schedule.
Twitter: @BethandLisaPod
Episode 16Literary agent Leslie Zampetti shares the inside scope on what agents are looking for and how to put your best foot forward!
About LeslieLeslie joined Odom Media Management in 2022. Previously, she was an agent with Dunham Literary and an intern with The Bent Agency.
A former librarian with over 20 years’ experience in special, public, and school libraries, Leslie has cataloged rocket launch videos and Lego rocket ship models, presented SEC documents and story times, and negotiated with organizations from Lexis-Nexis to the PTA. Her experience as a librarian has given her a distinct perspective on publishing and readers. A writer herself, Leslie is very familiar with querying from both sides of the desk. (P.S. - Leslie is also Lisa’s agent!)
Find Leslie on Twitter at @literarylesliez and at Odom Media Management.
Twitter: @BethandLisaPod
Insta: @WritersWithWrinklesBookshop.org site for books mentioned in the episodes! Support Writers With Wrinkles - become a subscriber
Email: Beth@BethMcMullenBooks.comWriters with Wrinkles Link Tree for more!
In episode 15, we feature The Violin Conspiracy, by Brendan Slocumb, and; The Haunting of Aveline Jones, by Phil Hickes
Visit our Bookshop.org site for all our featured books!
For today's Hot Writing Tip, we talk about how to be on the look out for word tics and filler words in your manuscript.
Twitter: @BethandLisaPod
Episode 14
New York Times bestselling author Laura Taylor Namey shares advice that all writers, aspiring or established, will want to hear. Join us!
About Laura
Laura is the New York Times bestselling author of A Cuban Girl’s Guide to Tea and Tomorrow, which was a Reese Witherspoon YA Book Club pick. Other titles include A British Girl’s Guide to Hurricanes and Heartbreak, When We Were Them, and The Library of Lost Things. A proud Cuban American, she can be found hunting for vintage treasures and wishing she was in London or Paris. She lives in San Diego with her husband and two children.
A British Girls Guide to Hurricanes and Heartbreak hits shelves September 2023.
Find Laura's books on our Bookshop.org site
Twitter: @BethandLisaPod
Insta: @WritersWithWrinklesBookshop.org site for books mentioned in the episodes! Support Writers With Wrinkles - become a subscriber
Email: Beth@BethMcMullenBooks.comWriters with Wrinkles Link Tree for more!
In episode 13, we feature The Great Alone, by Kristin Hannah, and; The Secret Files of Fairday Morrow, by Jessica Haight and Stephanie Robinson.
Visit our Bookshop.org site for all our featured books!
For today's Hot Writing Tip, we talk about how to use a regular old stack of index cards to help you get your arms around a manuscript.
Twitter: @BethandLisaPod
Episode 12
We chat with debut author Catherine Arguelles. Find out what it is like to be a newly minted author and learn from her experience about what to do and what not to do.
About Catherine
Catherine has worked as a counselor with middle school students, a fundraiser for non-profits, and is the proud parent of two feminist readers and three regal cats. She has a BA in English, with a Minor Women’s Studies, from the University of Oregon, and a MA in Psychology, Counseling, from CSU Sacramento. Catherine lives in Northern California.
Flip Turns, Catherine’s first novel, has garnered great reviews and is available for purchase anywhere you buy books.
Twitter: @BethandLisaPod
Insta: @WritersWithWrinklesBookshop.org site for books mentioned in the episodes! Support Writers With Wrinkles - become a subscriber
Email: Beth@BethMcMullenBooks.comWriters with Wrinkles Link Tree for more!
In episode 11, we feature two classics on Books on Botox! Wuthering Heights (wow DARK!) and The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe (talk about staying power!)
Visit our Bookshop.org site for all our featured books!
For today's Hot Writing Tip, Lisa talks about the importance of secondary characters and how to make them shine.
This is a helpful worksheet for thinking about these characters that we like to use.
Twitter: @BethandLisaPod
We've changed our format!
For Season 2, the interview will have its own episode and Books on Botox/Hot Writing Tip will have their own episode. We want to mindful of your precious time and keep episodes short enough to enough at one go.
Our Season 2 opening chat is with New York Times Bestselling author James Ponti.
James Ponti grew up in a small Florida beach town, where he dreamed of one day becoming a writer. He loves pasta, laughing at funny stories, and going to the movies on weekday afternoons. One of his absolute favorite things to do is travel with his family, and it was during a trip to London and Paris that he got the idea for City Spies. He now lives in Orlando, Florida and is the New York Times Bestselling author of three middle grade book series. Find out more at JamesPonti.com.
City Spies 4: City of the Dead is available February 7th anywhere you buy books. James is also hitting the road with a ten city tour. Visit his twitter feed or website for dates, locations and details.
Twitter: @BethandLisaPod
Insta: @WritersWithWrinklesBookshop.org site for books mentioned in the episodes! Support Writers With Wrinkles - become a subscriber
Email: Beth@BethMcMullenBooks.comWriters with Wrinkles Link Tree for more!
Writers with Wrinkles, where co-hosts and authors Beth McMullen and Lisa Schmid iron out the wrinkles in writing, publishing and everything in between….one podcast at a time.
Episode 9:
Books on Botox: Theme - books that make you LOVE to read!
Lisa pick: Kat Greene Comes Clean, by Melissa Roske
Beth pick: The Verifiers, by Jane Pek
Writers With Wrinkles Bookshop.org - find all the books mentioned on the podcast!
Three Burning Questions: Emmy-award winning screenwriter, producer and author Sascha Rothchild
The Hot Tip: Lisa shares her love of the new Netflix show 'Wednesday' and how well the writers do character development.
Twitter: @BethandLisaPod
Insta: @WritersWithWrinklesBookshop.org site for books mentioned in the episodes! Support Writers With Wrinkles - become a subscriber
Email: Beth@BethMcMullenBooks.comWriters with Wrinkles Link Tree for more!
Writers with Wrinkles, where co-hosts and authors Beth McMullen and Lisa Schmid iron out the wrinkles in writing, publishing and everything in between….one podcast at a time.
Join us as we talk about our favorite writing podcasts, including:
Writing Excuses
Writing the Broomstick (Insta: @writingthebroom)
Kate and Abbie Show
DIY MFA Radio (Insta: @diymfa)
Let us know your favorite writing podcasts on Twitter or Insta!
Twitter: @BethandLisaPod
Insta: @WritersWithWrinklesBookshop.org site for books mentioned in the episodes! Support Writers With Wrinkles - become a subscriber
Email: Beth@BethMcMullenBooks.comWriters with Wrinkles Link Tree for more!
Writers with Wrinkles, where co-hosts and authors Beth McMullen and Lisa Schmid iron out the wrinkles in writing, publishing and everything in between….one podcast at a time.
Episode :
Books on Botox: The Latecomer by Jean Hanff Korelitz. The Bartaemus Trilogy by Jonathan Stroud
Three Burning Questions: New York Times bestselling author/illustrator Eliza Wheeler talks about her creative process and how she figures out how to tell a story.
The Hot Tip: Beth doubles down on an important tip that Eliza shared in her interview!
About Eliza Wheeler:
Eliza Wheeler is a mostly illustrator and sometimes author of books for children. Her first picture book, ‘Miss Maple’s Seeds’ was a New York Times best seller, and she has illustrated numerous books, including the Newbery Honor book ‘Doll Bones’ by Holly Black, and the picture books by Pat Zietlow Miller; ‘When I’m With You, ‘When You Are Brave’, and ‘Wherever You Go’. The first layouts for her second picture book ‘Home in the Woods’, the story of her grandmother’s childhood, were created on the same desk that Maurice Sendak created the art for ‘Where the Wild Things Are’ during her stay at the 2017 Sendak Fellowship retreat. Eliza grew up in the northwoods of Wisconsin, lived for a decade in Los Angeles, and now calls Minneapolis, Minnesota home.
Visit her at WheelerStudio.com
Insta: @WheelerStudio
Twitter: @WheelerStudio
Writers With Wrinkles Bookshop.org - find all the books mentioned on the podcast!
Twitter: @BethandLisaPod
Insta: @WritersWithWrinklesBookshop.org site for books mentioned in the episodes! Support Writers With Wrinkles - become a subscriber
Email: Beth@BethMcMullenBooks.comWriters with Wrinkles Link Tree for more!
Writers with Wrinkles, where co-hosts and authors Beth McMullen and Lisa Schmid iron out the wrinkles in writing, publishing and everything in between….one podcast at a time.
Lisa and Beth talk about what they are grateful for and what Thanksgiving dish is the BEST, in this Bonus episode.
Twitter: @BethandLisaPod
Writers with Wrinkles, where co-hosts and authors Beth McMullen and Lisa Schmid iron out the wrinkles in writing, publishing and everything in between….one podcast at a time.
Episode 7:
Books on Botox: Books with crackling dialog! The Agathas, by Kathleen Glasgow & Liz Lawson. The Bodyguard, by Katherine Center
Three Burning Questions: author and Twitter pitch master Nadia Salomon joins us for an interview chock full of really valuable information and tips on how to pitch your book, on Twitter and beyond!
The Hot Tip: Something super easy with huge benefits. Win-win!
Mentioned in Episode 7:
Find Jane Friedman's newsletter, The Hot Sheet, on her website.
And check out Renewable Jewels!
Twitter: @BethandLisaPod
Books make the perfect gift!
They are easy to wrap, never go bad and can get used over and over again!
Beth and Lisa offer recommendations for your holiday booking shopping list.
Share your favorite titles to give as gifts at @BethandLisaPod!
Twitter: @BethandLisaPod
Writers with Wrinkles, where co-hosts and authors Beth McMullen and Lisa Schmid iron out the wrinkles in writing, publishing and everything in between….one podcast at a time.
Episode 6:
Books on Botox: Lisa picks The Case of the Poached Egg, by Robin Newman and illustrated by Deborah Zemke; and Beth picks Blood Sugar, by Sascha Rothchild
Three Burning Questions: author Ally Malinenko answers questions about writing scary stories! (post burning questions at @BethandLisaPod!)
The Hot Tip: Beth shares her favorite productivity/focus apps (Freedom and Cold Turkey) (just in time for NaNoWriMo!)
Twitter: @BethandLisaPod
Lisa and Beth discuss National Novel Writing Month (#NaNoWriMo starts Nov. 1st!) and the challenge to write 50,000 words in one month. It's terrifying but here are some tips to slay it.
Lisa offers an abbreviated version - #MiniWriMo - for those looking for a lighter option.
Check Twitter for updates about their progress throughout the month and share your own experience!
50,000 words or bust!!
Twitter: @BethandLisaPod
Writers with Wrinkles, where co-hosts and authors Beth McMullen and Lisa Schmid iron out the wrinkles in writing, publishing and everything in between….one podcast at a time.
Episode 5:
Books on Botox: A scary book theme! Lisa picks Ghost Girl, by Ally Malinenko, and Beth picks Fairy Tale, by Stephen King
Three Burning Questions: author/producer Cindy Callaghan joins us to talk about the journey of book-to-movie/TV. Cindy's latest book is My Big Heart Shaped Fail.
The Hot Tip: Lisa shares the rule of 'cooling off'
Visit Twitter to send us your '3 Burning Questions' for our upcoming guests! Next guest: Ally Malinenko
Twitter: @BethandLisaPod
Writers with Wrinkles, where co-hosts and authors Beth McMullen and Lisa Schmid iron out the wrinkles in writing, publishing and everything in between….one podcast at a time.
Episode 4:
Books on Botox: A picture book theme! Lisa picks Wherever You Go, by Pat Zietlow Miller, and Beth picks I Want My Hat Back, by Jon Klassen
Three Burning Questions: author, ghost writer and professor Eileen Rendahl shares some wisdom on work for hire and ghost writing among other things. (post burning questions at @BethandLisaPod!)
The Hot Tip: Beth shares a technical Microsoft Word tip that will help you jump around your manuscript while editing.
Listen in as we share stories about how we got their literary agents.
And we want to hear YOUR stories of searching for the perfect agent. Check out @BethandLisaPod on Twitter for details on how to share your story.
Writers with Wrinkles, where co-hosts and authors Beth McMullen and Lisa Schmid iron out the wrinkles in writing, publishing and everything in between….one podcast at a time.
Episode 3:
Books on Botox: Lisa picks The Night Gardener, by Jonathon Auxier, and Beth picks The Plot, by Jean Korelitz.
Three Burning Questions: editor Elizabeth Law shines a light on what editors are thinking about. (post burning questions at @BethandLisaPod!)
The Hot Tip: Beth shares the ‘250’ tip, or better yet, the ‘meet yourself where you’ are tip.
A critique group can make your writing stronger, especially when you are starting out. Listen in to hear all about them.
Writers with Wrinkles, where Beth McMullen and Lisa Schmid iron out the wrinkles in all things writing and publishing.
Episode 2:
Books on Botox: Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus and The House on the Cerulean Sea by TJ Klune
Three Burning Questions: author Fleur Bradley who gives a mini master class on the art of writing mystery (post burning questions at @BethandLisaPod!)
The Hot Tip: Lisa shares a great piece of advice for writing and for life!
Listen in as Beth and Lisa share some basics on how to make your book signing a great (and not humiliating!) experience for you, your readers and your book store host.
Join us for our first episode of Writers with Wrinkles where we iron out the wrinkles in all things writing and publishing.
This episode features an interview with Jonathan Rosen, agent, author and podcaster. Jonathan gives advice on what aspiring authors should focus on and what is on his agent wish list right now. Jonathan answers Three Burning Questions from out Twitter audience. Submit your questions for our next guest - author Fleur Bradley - today at @BethandLisaPod
Stick around for Books on Botox, where we discuss books we love and what those authors are doing so well. To be a writer, you have to read so keep track of these titles!
Last but not least is the episode's Hot Tip. This is a small piece of practical writing advice to help aspiring authors along the road to finishing a shiny manuscript and getting it published.