CAROL GORDON EKSTER: I love the #kidlit community on social media. Anitra reached out to me in a message and when I checked her out,
Category: Inspiration
Embracing Connection: The Joy of Returning to In-Person Conferences
Guest Post by Carrie Pearson Back in the (pre-pandemic) day, writers and illustrators used to gather in person for most of our conferences and workshops.
THE DAVENPORTS by debut YA author Krystal Marquis
“The first book in a breathless new series, The Davenports offers a glimpse into a period of African American history often overlooked, while delivering a totally escapist, swoon-worthy read.”
Beneath the Wide Silk Sky, The Blood Years, & Only This Beautiful Moment: Unforgettable YA Historical Fiction
For me, historical events, places, and individuals are enlivened by fictional storylines and characters. These three YA novels are beautifully written, incredibly compelling, deeply revealing, and I guarantee, absolutely unforgettable.
Joy, Play, and Magic in Non-Fiction
Guest Post by Cedar Pruitt Kids want to understand the world. Right away, as far as I can tell. When our daughter was a baby,
Pedal, Balance, Steer: Interview With Children’s Book Author (And Kidlit Champion) Vivian Kirkfield…Plus A Double Giveaway!
Do you remember when you first learned to ride a bike? I sure do. It felt shaky, awkward, and a little scary at first. But
Six Heartfelt & Charming YA Contemporary Novels for All Seasons
These six YA Contemporary Novels all feature adorable covers, snappy titles, clever writing, and charming protagonists. As you’re curled up in your favorite reading chair, make sure you have a box of tissues nearby as these novels overflow with heart!
A Simple Holiday Gift Guide for Writers
If you’re a holiday gift giver, it can be hard to know what to get for the writer in your life . . . and
#Kidlit Interview with the talented picture book creator, Jyoti Rajan Gopal
CAROL GORDON EKSTER: Jyoti, it’s so wonderful to see your writing life bloom since our first interview. And since then, I’ve even gotten to meet
My Experience Writing a Choose-Your-Own-Adventure Book
Guest Post by Eric Grissom As a kid, my life was a bit of a whirlwind. My parents divorced when I was five, and
FOOD AND FAMILY IN PICTURE BOOKS…PLUS A GIVEAWAY!
Guest Post by Patricia Tanumihardja Chances are you’ve read a picture book or two with food themes in the last year. While they’ve been around
Editing tip: Ditch most filter words!
Crafting a memorable narrative requires keeping the reader engaged; limiting the use of filter words can help. Why is that? Because filter words tell rather
Spotlight on Contemporary YA Fiction: Five POWERFUL Novels
The spotlight for this post is 5 powerful contemporary novels: Invisible Son, Give Me a Sign, When it All Syncs Up, Ander & Santi Were Here, and True True. All are realistic, compelling, and mind-expanding, the kind of novels that draw you in and don’t let go.
Just One Pebble: Interview with Picture Book Author Dianna Wilson Sirkovski
Just One Pebble is the inspirational story of how nine-year-old Braeden Mannering started a non-profit organization called Brae’s Brown Bags in an effort to end hunger. Dianna Wilson Sirkovski came across Braedan’s story on (link to website) and says, “The story reached out and wrapped its fingers around my heart.”
WRITERS' RUMPUS 