Coaching KidLit

Episode 36: Line-Level Language with Sara Gentry

In this episode of Coaching KidLit, Author Accelerator Certified Book Coach Sara Gentry interviews Sharon about line level language and writing and revising KidLit. They focus on creating engaging language for picture books, establishing authentic middle-grade voices, and developing complex stories in young adult literature.
The conversation highlights the importance of sensory details, precise word choices, and character perspectives to make stories resonate with young readers. Sharon emphasizes the significance of revision for line-level writing, using mentor texts, and understanding the unique sensory experiences of characters to enhance storytelling.
 
Download Sharon's Sensory Detail Revision Tool Here.

Coaching KidLit Episode 35: Handling Research with Guest Laurie Calkhoven

In this episode of Coaching KidLit, hosts Sharon Skinner and Christy Yaros discuss key aspects handling research with returning guest Laurie Calkhoven.
Laurie, an Author Accelerator Certified Book Coach, shares her extensive experience in writing over 50 books for young readers, including tips on conducting effective and organized research for both fiction and nonfiction.
She emphasizes the importance of using trusted sources, primary resources, and libraries, while also sharing practical advice on managing research time and avoiding rabbit holes. Laurie also provides insights into structuring research, drawing inspiration, and repurposing research for different audiences.
Resource Link

Episode 34: The Value of Community for KidLit Writers with Guest Sara Gentry

In this episode, host Christy Yaros and guest Sara Gentry dive into the vital role of community for KidLit writers. They explore various types of writing communities, from large organizations like SCBWI to intimate critique groups, and discuss how to choose the right community for your needs. Christy and Sarah share valuable tips on balancing free and paid resources, the benefits of connecting with fellow writers, and how community support can enhance your writing journey. Whether you're a seasoned author or just starting out, this episode offers practical advice on finding your people in the world of children's literature and reminds listeners that in the sometimes solitary world of writing, you're never truly alone.
Follow us on Instagram and X/Twitter: @CoachingKidLit
For more information about Sharon Skinner, visit bookcoachingbysharon.com or follow her on Instagram @sharon_skinner_author_bookcoach and X/Twitter @SharonSkinner56.
For more information about Christy Yaros, visit christyyaros.com or follow her on Instagram and X/Twitter @ChristyYaros.
You can find Sara Gentry at solutionsforwriters.com or connect with her on Instagram, Threads, and X @writewithsara.

Coaching KidLit Episode 33: Non-Fiction Chapter Books with Guest Lori Alexander

In this episode of Coaching KidLit, host Sharon Skinner talks with special guest Lori Alexander about writing and publishing nonfiction for children.
Lori shares her journey from writing picture books to nonfiction, highlighting her award-winning works on historical figures in science and medicine. She discusses her process of finding ideas, conducting deep research, and using narrative techniques to engage young readers. The episode provides actionable advice for aspiring nonfiction KidLit writers and touches on current trends and recommendations for science writing resources.
Find out more about Lori Alexander at https://www.lorialexanderbooks.com/

Episode 32: Demystifying Early KidLit Categories with Guest Laurie Calkhoven

Sharon and Christy talk with prolific writer and fellow Author Accelerator Book Coach Laurie Calkoven about the differences between various early KidLit categories, including picture books, early readers, and chapter books.

Episode 31: Navigating Time in Storytelling: Past, Present, and Future

In this episode of Coaching KidLit, hosts Sharon Skinner and Christy Yaros dive into techniques for effectively telling stories that involve backstory, flashbacks, and flash-forwards.
They discuss the importance of understanding the narrative perspective in time and the challenges associated with various methods of integrating past events into the present storyline.
Practical guidelines are given on how to balance storytelling elements to keep the reader engaged without overloading them with information.  
 
00:00 Introduction and Overview
01:00 Understanding the Narrator's Position in Time
02:18 Creating Immediate and Relatable Narratives
04:13 Incorporating Backstory Effectively
05:36 Balancing Flashbacks and Story Flow
24:45 Prologues and Epilogues: When and How to Use Them
29:45 Actionable Tips for Writers
33:28 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
 
Follow us on Instagram and X/Twitter: @CoachingKidLit
For more information about Sharon Skinner, visit bookcoachingbysharon.com or follow her on Instagram @sharon_skinner_author_bookcoach and X/Twitter @SharonSkinner56.
For more information about Christy Yaros, visit christyyaros.com or follow her on Instagram and X/Twitter @ChristyYaros.

Episode 30: Character Emotion on the Page

In this episode, Christy and Sharon delve into the art of getting character emotions on the page and explore effective techniques for showcasing characters in their unique worlds, setting character-specific rules, and crafting emotionally engaging narratives.

Episode 29: Thematic Depth

In this episode of Coaching KidLit, hosts Sharon Skinner and Christy Yaros dive deep into the concept of theme in KidLit writing. They discuss how to think about theme as the overarching idea of a book, touching on Cheryl Klein's concepts of experiential, emotional, and thematic points. The hosts emphasize the importance of connecting with the reader through characters' emotional journeys and how different themes can be explored at varying levels of KidLit, from picture books to young adult novels. They also cover the significance of revision and layering in developing rich, thematic content, and advise writers on planning and revising with theme in mind, using practical examples and actionable advice to help writers enhance their work.
 
Follow us on Instagram and Twitter: @CoachingKidLit
For more information about Sharon Skinner, visit bookcoachingbysharon.com or follow her on Instagram @sharon_skinner_author_bookcoach and Twitter @SharonSkinner56.
For more information about Christy Yaros, visit christyyaros.com or follow her on Instagram and Twitter @ChristyYaros.

Episode 28: The Interplay of Words and Art in Picture Book Writing and Publishing with Guest Michael Hale

In this episode of Coaching KidLit, Sharon talks Picture Books with award-winning author/illustrator and Picture Book publishing guru, Michael Hale.
From the importance of open communication and trusting collaboration between authors and illustrators to the invaluable advice for aspiring creators considering traditional vs. self-publishing, this episode is brimming with inspiration and practical tips about creating book dummies, the value of cheerleaders in your writing journey, and how to bring your best work to life.
Topics Covered:
Concise Storytelling
Paths to Picture Book Publishing
Working with Illustrators
Challenges in Collaboration
Developing the Craft

Episode 27: Writing Craft Book Roundup

In this episode of Coaching KidLit, Christy and Sharon dig into eleven great Writing Craft Books, why they like them, how they use them, and why you might want to check them out.
The discussions centers ways to use of craft writing books and materials when writing KidLit, including tools and approaches for character development, story structure, and effective editing.
Topics covered include:
Editing with a plan
Character development
Emotional storytelling
Respectful diverse representation
Practical writing application
Continuous learning and improvement
Craft books selection and use
Follow us on Instagram and Twitter: @CoachingKidLit
For more information about Sharon Skinner, visit bookcoachingbysharon.com or follow her on Instagram @sharon_skinner_author_bookcoach and Twitter @SharonSkinner56.
For more information about Christy Yaros, visit christyyaros.com or follow her on Instagram and Twitter @ChristyYaros.