EP 036 Writing for Middle Grade Readers

How do we work through those trying times when we feel like we "should" be working on our manuscripts? How do we get through without letting the inner self critic win? Today I am joined by Marin Laukka – and we try and figure this out.

How do we work through those trying times when we feel like we "should" be working on our manuscripts? How do we get through without letting the inner self critic win? Today I am joined by Marin Laukka – and we try and figure this out.

Why are we so hesitant to call ourselves writers? While our paths and stories may differ, we all fall into practice one way or another, and for many of us, writing may serve a different need. Guest Shelly Sharon joins the podcast and we explore the ways we identify with, find company in, and develop a relationship with writing.  

Why are we so hesitant to call ourselves writers? While our paths and stories may differ, we all fall into practice one way or another, and for many of us, writing may serve a different need. Guest Shelly Sharon joins the podcast and we explore the ways we identify with, find company in, and develop a relationship with writing.  

Rules. They usually tend to suck the fun out of something. But what about rules for writing? Are there any? Should there be? Perhaps the bigger question is, are rules helpful? To help us sort it all out, I'm joined today by writer JP Behrens.

Having kids – for me – has been the perfect excuse to dip back into and read books aimed at younger readers again. But what is it like to write for younger readers? Today's guest, Gina Loveless, is going to tell us all about it.

It can be tough to ride out a stretch when you have zero energy for your own creative pursuits. So what's a writer to do? This month I lament on how I've been attempting to sit with struggle, knowing it will pass – and that I will return to the work I miss.

Writing is about so much more than writing. There are many other kinds of non-writing work that sometimes have to happen before we ever arrive to the page. Guest Jeremiah Timmons has a lot to share when it comes to mindset, trauma, the joy we can actually extract from our work, and the freedom of mediocrity.  

It's the oft-dreaded question: How big is your platform? Like it or not, to obtain an agent or publishing contract these days, writers need a platform. Ideally, we'd be spending any free time we have on our craft, our most precious commodity: Our words. Growing a platform can be the equivalent of a part-time job, at least. Guest Amber Brandt joins the podcast to discuss how she's been navigating this tricky terrain.

Sometimes, the most challenging times have a lot to teach us – if we're willing to listen. 2020 was less than kind to my writing life, but that doesn't mean it was a total loss: I learned a few critical lessons along the way that I am bringing into 2021 – and beyond.