Josh Monken And Brenna Jeanneret

Shows

You May Contribute A VerseJenna Elyse Johnson's Kidlit JoyIt's Brenna, Jenna, and Josh. Oh my. Jenna Johnson joins us today for discussion of her debut books EVERY BODY MOVE! (out in September 2025, and a singalong!) and I SPARK LIKE LIGHTNING (out in winter 2026). And believe us when we say there's more goodness to come from Jenna soon! Our chat with Jenna goes way beyond her debuts to permission, persistence, passion, and the agonizing roller coaster that is the publishing industry. We hope you enjoy! This episode was proudly sponsored by Tielmour Press. -------- DON’T MISS...2025-07-0851 min

You May Contribute A VerseYou, Me, Danielle Turmaud, the Writing Journey, and Being Bravely Vulnerable (A Crossover Episode!)Today we cross into uncharted realms! It's a podcast head-to-head-to-head as we talk to Danielle Render Turmaud, picture book author, therapist, and host of the podcast You, Me, and The Writing Journey! (check out this same conversation and all her others over on her feed!) Danielle's virtual event Take Your Kid to Publishing Day is Saturday, July 19, and registration is still open through late June! This event will introduce kids to the business of publishing, and maybe help some of our kids understand what the heck we spend so much time doing. Sign up today! ...2025-06-241h 05

You May Contribute A VerseMy So-Called Niche Clue with Katie VenitI don't think we've ever talked about Jared Leto on the podcast before. Or the board game Clue for that matter. Katie Venit is here with the niche hits! FORTS and CASSINI'S MISSION are out, respectively, in July and August and to be perfectly honest it's a crime you can't get them now, because they're great and Katie is amazing. We all vibed! This episode was proudly sponsored by Tielmour Press. Shoutout this week from Brittany Pomales to Elayne Crain for her debut There's Something Odd About the Babysitter! ...2025-06-1055 min

You May Contribute A VerseBonni Goldberg on Duality, Identity, and... ArtingThis episode gets philosophical! As you listen, stand up, spread your arms wide, and tell yourself you are a writer (if you in fact identify as such)! Bonni Goldberg is a poet, author, public speaker, teacher, and really great podcast guest. Check out her picture book Doña Gracia Saved Worlds and her books on writing! This was a wonderful chat! This episode was proudly sponsored by Tielmour Press. -------- DON’T MISS AN EPISODE! Sign up for our newsletter here! Help support Trenise and Travis after a de...2025-05-261h 16

You May Contribute A VerseThe P Word with Brittany Pomales!Proudly portraying professionalism per perennial plans, presenting: Prittany Pomales... I mean Brittany! It Started with a P just released in April! (But obviously it hadn't yet when we first recorded this chat last year) Enjoy - she is a pleasure! --------- Our sponsor is Tielmour Press! Check out Fungi Are More than Mushrooms, out March 2025, AND Jon's new kids' show, Hook Book Barrel! Our reviews this week: I ROCK MY HAIR by Angel Tate BEING A DOG: A TAIL OF MINDFULNESS by Maria Gianferrari, illustrated by P...2025-05-1356 min

You May Contribute A VerseVicky Fang Entertains, Educates, and EnlightensOur response to meeting Vicky Fang? Charmed, I'm sure. Check out Vicky's chapter book series Ava Lin, the latest installment, Ava Lin, Super Duper Happy, out June 2025! Our reviews this week: LLAMAS GO BANANAS by Briony Britten, illustrated by Pauline Gregory THE INTERPRETER, by Olivia Abtahi, illustrated by Monica Arnaldo IT STARTED WITH A P, by Brittany Pomales, illustrated by Andrew Joyner DON’T MISS AN EPISODE! Sign up for our newsletter here! The artwork for You May Contribute a Verse featur...2025-04-2955 min

You May Contribute A VerseJudy Campbell-Smith's Sweet SpotJudy Campbell-Smith is here! Check out her books Baseball for Breakfast (coming 2026), Ice Cream Everywhere, and AJ's Neighborhood, AND make sure and join PB Power Hour if you can. It's a great resource for the community. Enjoy! ----- Our sponsor is Tielmour Press! Check out Fungi Are More than Mushrooms, out March 2025, AND Jon's new kids' show, Hook Book Barrel! Our reviews this week: THE BAKERY DRAGON by Devin Elle Kurtz ELWOOD BIGFOOT: WANTED: BIRDIE FRIENDS! by Jill Esbaum and Nate Wragg KAT HATS by Dan...2025-04-1559 min

You May Contribute A VerseCarrie Finison’s Origin Story Or How She Got Her PowersToday’s guest is picture book author Carrie Finison make sure to check out her newest release, Pigs Dig A Road illustrated by Brian Biggs to see her incredible rhyming skills in action! We chat about Carrie’s start with Baby Bug magazine and writing short snippets, Latin scansion, of all things, and how rhyme has ruined radio for her! We also dove into the Rutgers conference and Carrie was kind enough to share the intro to a piece that landed her her agent along with the query letter! Team Versy is Brenna Jeanneret, children’s lit a...2025-04-011h 05

You May Contribute A VerseBitsy Kemper's Open House!Do you know Bitsy Kemper? You should. She's fastidious, fanatical, and fantastic. If you've never seen it before, check out her List O'Publishers and all her books, especially her two upcoming books, Best Friends with Grandma and Best Friends with Grandpa! ----- Our sponsor is Tielmour Press! Check out Fungi Are More than Mushrooms, out March 2025, AND Jon's new kids' show, Hook Book Barrel! Our reviews this week: THE CAFE AT THE EDGE OF THE WOODS by Mikey Please RIDING THROUGH RICE FIELDS: A TRIP TO THE PHILIPPINES by Mi...2025-03-181h 01

You May Contribute A VerseThe Idea Doesn’t Care Who Has It With Alastair HeimTeam Versy is Brenna Jeanneret, children’s lit author, mother, rock climber, outdoors person, and podcaster, Josh Monken, children’s lit author, father, science communicator, and podcaster Jon Seymour, podcast wizard, author/illustrator and family man. This episode was proudly sponsored by Tielmour Press Our guest for this conversation was Alastair Heim. You can find Alastair here. DON’T MISS AN EPISODE! Sign up for our newsletter here! This episode’s book reviews: OLLIE, THE ACORN, AND THE MIGHTY IDEA by Andrew Hacket and Kaz Windness WHEN ISAAC HEAR...2025-03-041h 02

You May Contribute A VerseA Picture Book Sandwich with Carter Higgins!Carter Higgins, author, illustrator, motion designer, librarian, great thinker, is here! You have probably read her books already because they're great, but one of Josh's favorites is discussed within! And hey, not that you weren't going to anyway, but stay til the very end for an introspective discussion about Carter's next book, Round and Round the Year We Go, which is delightful and contains human children! ----- Our sponsor is Tielmour Press! Check out Fungi Are More than Mushrooms, out March 2025! Our reviews this week: TUMBLEBABY by Adam Rex an...2025-02-181h 04

You May Contribute A VerseErika Cohen Lyons Knows Who She IsTeam Versy is Brenna Jeanneret, children’s lit author, mother, rock climber, outdoors person, and podcaster, Josh Monken, children’s lit author, father, science communicator, and podcaster Jon Seymour, podcast wizard, author/illustrator and family man. This episode was proudly sponsored by Tielmour Press Our guest for this conversation was Erika Cohen Lyons. You can find Erika here. DON’T MISS AN EPISODE! Sign up for our newsletter here! This episode’s book reviews: MILLIE FLEUR’S POISON GARDEN by Christy Mandin PARROTFISH HAS A SUPERPOWER by Jill Esbaum...2025-02-0444 min

You May Contribute A VerseAdria Goetz's Treasure HuntIf any editors are listening, Adria Goetz loves you! Adria stays open. She reads your queries. She tracks editor interest (even poop jokes). She's thoughtful and nice and get ready for an educational chat. This conversation was recorded so long ago (April 2024!) that we still called Twitter Twitter (and we still enjoyed a community there). I think the state of the industry is just as glacial and frustrating as it was way back then, but either way this is a valuable inside look into the mind and ways of working of an inspirational and considerate...2025-01-2148 min

You May Contribute A VerseChiara Colombi Can’t Stop HerselfToday’s guest is Chiara Colombi, author of Rocket Ship, Solo Trip and the follow-up Rocket Beams, Lunar Dreams both illustrated by Scott Magoon. We chat about marketing your debut, being your own advocate, and asking yourself why you write. But you’ll have to listen all the way to the end to hear our ideas on revolutionizing the query process and to hear Chiara’s Dead Manuscript! But, really, agents, if you’re listening, please chime in, we’d love to hear your thoughts on querying. Team Versy is Brenna Jeanneret, children’s lit author, moth...2025-01-071h 23

You May Contribute A VerseKirk Reedstrom, the King of Second-GuessingZany hijinks ensue with Kirk Reedstrom! News flash, we had this conversation six months before publishing it, and wouldn't you know it, it's dated because there's now a FOURTH book in Kirk's Duck and Moose series out next year! The man is hustling! ----- Our sponsor is Tielmour Press and our reviews happen to be coincidentally for Neigh Kid, by Alan Mayfair and Gabi Moraes, just out as of December 7, 2024 2024-12-171h 03

You May Contribute A VerseBeep, Bop, Boop It’s Phaea CredeTeam Versy is Brenna Jeanneret, children’s lit author, mother, rock climber, outdoors person, and podcaster, Josh Monken, children’s lit author, father, science communicator, and podcaster Jon Seymour, podcast wizard, author/illustrator and family man. This episode was proudly sponsored by Tielmour Press Our guest for this conversation was Phaea Crede. You can find Phaea here. And Phaea’s podcast Brodents can be found here. DON’T MISS AN EPISODE! Sign up for our newsletter here! This episode’s book reviews: THE PIRATE’S BED, written by Nicola Winstanley an...2024-12-0359 min

You May Contribute A VerseEverything but the Kat Chen Sink!A yoga instructor's guide to demon hunting? Not this time. It's Kat Chen and her Play with Me series! A hoot indeed. Thank you to Joyce Sweeney for hooking up this conversation and - in the intervening months - signing me (Josh) as a client! This conversation serves as a huge endorsement of working with The Seymour Agency through the lens of Kat's super charming experience. Our little podcast is sponsored by Tielmour Press! For a two-moon special, check out and order Sue Lancaster's Supermoon and/or (preferably and) Neigh Kid by Alan Mayfair! -------2024-11-191h 13

You May Contribute A VerseShowing up With Brian LaRossaOur guest today is Brian LaRossa editor at Scholastic. We talk about lowering the barrier to entry, mentorships and imposter syndrome. At its core the conversation explores inclusivity at every level and having more voices at the table. This episode was proudly sponsored by Tielmour Press You can find Brian here. DON’T MISS AN EPISODE! Sign up for our newsletter here! This episode’s book reviews: If you want to be a part of the #KidlitForKamala movement or want more information click here. THE FIRST CAT IN S...2024-11-051h 07

You May Contribute A VerseReading a Cartoon with Justin Colon and James Rey SanchezLucky you if you happen to listen to this episode the day it's released because it's also publication day for Justin Colon and James Rey Sanchez's Impossible Possums! You're also lucky in the future because now you can go read Impossible Possums and then use this episode as a behind the scenes sneak peek into the possum sausage-making, which I guarantee is more fun than it might sound like. ------- DON’T MISS AN EPISODE! Sign up for our newsletter here! This episode’s book reviews: ABZUGLUTELY! by Sarah Arons...2024-10-221h 10

You May Contribute A VerseThe Amazing Power of Girls with Maria MarianayagamOur guest for this conversation was Maria Marianayagam, kidlit author, known for her STEM and girl power books. We talk preempts, option clauses and subbing on proposal. You can find Maria here. DON’T MISS AN EPISODE! Sign up for our newsletter here! This episode’s book reviews: If you want to be a part of the #KidlitForKamala movement or want more information click here. SPIDER IN A WELL by Jess Hannigan THE NOTEBOOK KEEPER by Stephen Briseño and Magdalena Mora A SONG FOR NOLAN...2024-10-0849 min

You May Contribute A VerseKidlit for Kamala! with Martha BrockenbroughBedrooms, bathrooms, and bookshelves. All other people's places we should be staying out of unless invited. Especially if you're a fascist. Martha Brockenbrough is here! Talking Kidlit for Kamala, continuing children's lit education, and the frankly shocking number of books about bigfoot that one person can write. But mostly Kidlit for Kamala! A reminder from Martha: everything is political. All the things we take for granted, all the comforts and joys and holidays and benefits ingrained in our lives were things our forebears had to fight for until codified through political processes. 2024-09-241h 10

You May Contribute A VerseUp, Up, Ever Up With Anita YasudaOur guest for this conversation is Anita Yasuda. We chat about her start in the educational market, her journey to an agent and her new book UP, UP, EVER UP JUNKO TABEI: A Life In The Mountains illustrated by Yuko Shimizu. You can find Anita here. DON’T MISS AN EPISODE! Sign up for our newsletter here! This episode’s book reviews: If you want to be a part of the #KidlitForKamala movement or want more information click here. THE PRESIDENT OF THE JUNGLE by André Rodrigues, Larissa Ribeiro, Paula D...2024-09-171h 06

You May Contribute A VerseKindness is Easy with Dianna Wilson SirkovskyAll it takes is one person to believe in your work for you to break through this crazy industry. And all it takes is several hundred persons to listen to this interview with kind soul and skilled author Dianna Wilson Sirkovsky! Dianna's books, James's Reading Rescue and Just One Pebble, are kind acts of writing based on kind acts of goodness. Give them a read and get inspired! ------- DON’T MISS AN EPISODE! Sign up for our newsletter here! This episode’s book reviews: WE ARE DEFINI...2024-09-1053 min

You May Contribute A VerseBoss Notes with Sylvie FrankOur guest for this conversation is, the amazing and delightful Sylvie Frank, editorial director at Disney Hyperion. We chat behind-the-scenes at Disney, context switching, and trusting your critique groups. You can find Sylvie here. DON’T MISS AN EPISODE! Sign up for our newsletter here! This episode’s book reviews: If you want to be a part of the #KidlitForKamala movement or want more information click here. THE LION INSIDE by Rachel Bright illustrated by Jim Field JUDGE JULIETTE by Laura Gehl illustrated by Mari Lobo SY...2024-09-031h 02

You May Contribute A VerseChickens, Birds, Bees and Compost with Melody PlanOur guest today is Melody Plan, author of Inside the Compost Bin illustrated by Rong Pham and Vinh Nguyen. We talk birds and animal care, how Melody got her agent, and saying no to an opportunity when it doesn’t line up with your goals. You can find Melody here. DON’T MISS AN EPISODE! Sign up for our newsletter here! This episode’s book reviews: If you want to be a part of the #KidlitForKamala movement or want more information click here. I VOTED: MAKING A CHOICE MAKES A DIFF...2024-08-271h 10

You May Contribute A VerseLike A Good Neighbor, Stay Over There with Steph HensonOur guest Steph Henson is great! As summer wanes and the school year waxes, we catch up with Steph on her recent release No School, My Rules with Tielmour Press! ------- DON’T MISS AN EPISODE! Sign up for our newsletter here! This episode’s book reviews: MONSTER HANDS by Karen Kane and Jonaz McMillan, illustrated by Dion MBD DEEP, DEEP DOWN: THE SECRET UNDERWATER POETRY OF THE MARIANA TRENCH by Lydia Lukidis, illustrated by Juan Calle Velez POPI'S ALL SOULS SONG by C.K. Ma...2024-08-2051 min

You May Contribute A VerseInside the Prolific Mind of Laura GehlOur guest for this conversation was Laura Gehl author of Robot Shabbat, Snow Is..., Saving Delicia and many more. We chat about being prolific, how she gets her good news, and using neuroscience in picture books! You can find Laura here. DON’T MISS AN EPISODE! Sign up for our newsletter here! This episode’s book reviews: DONUTS FOR EVERYBODY by Jerrold Connors MY MAMA IS A WORK OF ART written by Hana Acabado THIS BOOK IS DEFINITELY NOT CURSED written by Megan Woodward and illustrated by Risa...2024-08-131h 07

You May Contribute A VerseT.F. Sabin, the Tom Brady of Picture BooksIn which Josh says 'inspirational' a lot because he was excited about the conversation. Author T.F. Sabin is great and we can't wait for you to hear all about her journey, what drives her, and how she's driven to be the best she can be. Here is T.F. Sabin's picture book journal, by the way: GOALS ------- DON’T MISS AN EPISODE! Sign up for our newsletter here! This episode’s book reviews: SCORCH, HEDGEHOG OF DOOM by Cate Berry, illustrated by Margherita Grasso FARM...2024-08-061h 25

You May Contribute A VerseEverything Everywhere All At Once With Maddie FrostOur guest for this conversation was Maddie Frost–friend of the pod, artist behind Versey the podcast mascot and author illustrator of Smug Seagull, Just Be Jelly and the GN series Wombats. We chat illustrating, switching agents, and working on multiple projects at once. You can find Maddie on Instagram. DON’T MISS AN EPISODE! Sign up for our newsletter here! This episode’s book reviews: VROOM by Barbara Mcclintock TATE’S WILD RESCUE written by Jenny Turnbull and illustrated by Izzy Burton SILLY BOOBIES A LOVE STORY written by Ame Dy...2024-07-3059 min

You May Contribute A VerseWriting for Little Me with Chloe Ito WardLife hacks and tangents and accidental nonfiction, oh my! Lots of potential episode titles in this one. Our conversation with Chloe Ito Ward is here! Grab her book Love Grows Here... here! Our podcast service auto-transcribed my intro with the name You Make a Drip Be Diverse. Should we change it to this AI-generated alternative?? (I apologize for the noise on my solo recording that sounded like I was recording from inside an airplane engine!) ------- DON’T MISS AN EPISODE! Sign up for our news...2024-07-161h 14

You May Contribute A VerseDesperation and Bookshelves with James McGowanThe vibes are strong with James McGowan! Agent, author, YouTuber, and great guest! ------- DON’T MISS AN EPISODE! Sign up for our newsletter here! This episode’s book reviews: CAN I BE YOUR DOG by Troy Cummings BUILDING A BEAK: HOW A TOUCAN'S RESCUE INSPIRED THE WORLD, written by Becca McMurdie, illustrated by Diana Hernandez EMERGENCY QUARTERS, written by Carlos Matias, illustrated by Gracey Zhang The artwork for You May Contribute a Verse features our quokka mascot Versey, and was generous...2024-07-021h 12

You May Contribute A VerseOne of Three Josh FunksPapa J Funk is here and he's taking no questions. Luckily for us, Josh Funk IS taking questions! ------- DON’T MISS AN EPISODE! Sign up for our newsletter here! This episode’s book reviews: TOUCH THE SKY by Stephanie Lucianovic, illustrated by Chris Park THE MESS THAT WE MADE by Michelle Lord, illustrated by Julia Blattman DUCK AND MOOSE: DUCK MOVES IN and MOOSE BLASTS OFF by Kirk Reedstrom The artwork for You May Contribute a Verse fe...2024-06-181h 10

You May Contribute A VerseFalling Out The Window with Jacob Sager WeinsteinTeam Versy is Brenna Jeanneret, children’s lit author, mother, rock climber, outdoors person, and podcaster, Josh Monken, children’s lit author, father, science communicator, and podcaster Jon Seymour, podcast wizard, author/illustrator and family man. Our guest for this conversation was Jacob Sager Weinstein. You can find Jacob on Twitter and Bluesky. DON’T MISS AN EPISODE! Sign up for our newsletter here! This episode’s book reviews: STAY WILD MY CHILD by Mandy Archer, with illustrations by Shane Crampton A SPOONFUL OF FROGS by Casey Lyall’s illustrated...2024-06-041h 03

You May Contribute A VerseRemembering Katey HowesThe world lost one of the brightest lights in the kidlit sky last week with the passing of author Katey Howes. Today we're remembering Katey and honoring her memory with a reshare of a conversation Josh first had with her in July 2021. If you have a memory of Katey you'd like to share, please consider doing so via this Google Form. A memory book will be created and gifted to each of her three children, containing photos and remembrances from those of us in the kidlit community who were fortunate enough to know her. ...2024-05-2844 min

You May Contribute A VerseDon't Forget to Love It with Charles SantosoTeam Versy is Brenna Jeanneret, children’s lit author, mother, rock climber, outdoors person, and podcaster, Josh Monken, children’s lit author, father, science communicator, and podcaster Jon Seymour, podcast wizard, author/illustrator and family man. Our guest for this conversation was Charles Santoso. You can find Charles on Twitter and Instagram. DON’T MISS AN EPISODE! Sign up for our newsletter here! This episode’s book reviews: SOMETIMES: A DAY FULL OF FEELINGS by Stephanie Stansbie, illustrated by Elisa Paganelli TOO MUCH SLIME by Frances Gilbert illustrated by Vin Vogel...2024-05-141h 15

You May Contribute A VerseThe Sweet Spot with Brenna Jeanneret (and bonus Betsy!)Pants vs Cake. Pantsing vs archaeology. The Mental Snack Drawer. Flax Eggs. Blogs on Saturday. The meh shelf. Betsy Bird pops into the co-host chair as we grill Brenna on her debut The Law of Birthdays in what turned out to be quite the conversation! Get The Law of Birthdays here! ------- DON’T MISS AN EPISODE! Sign up for our newsletter here! This episode’s book reviews: I DO NOT EAT CHILDREN by Matthew Cutler I AM NOT A CHAIR by Ross Burach EVE...2024-04-301h 19

You May Contribute A VerseOh No, the Adam Rex is HereA generous helping of Adam Rex awaits you. No cause for alarm, the episode title is merely a play on the title of one of Adam's three 2023 book releases! Catch these books in order of age group: Oh No, the Aunts are Here, The Story of Gumluck the Wizard, and A Little Like Waking! Guess what? YOU MAY CONTRIBUTE A VERSE IS FIVE YEARS OLD. Thank you for listening! I wish this milestone would have coincided with our 100th episode, but we're ALMOST THERE. ------- DON’T MISS AN EPI...2024-04-161h 10

You May Contribute A VerseTrust and Heart with Andrew HacketTeam Versy is Brenna Jeanneret, children’s lit author, mother, rock climber, outdoors person, and podcaster, Josh Monken, children’s lit author, father, science communicator, and podcaster Jon Seymour, podcast wizard, author/illustrator and family man. Our guest for this conversation was Andrew Hacket. You can find Andrew on Twitter. Check out his blog The Backstory and make sure to pre-order or add his books to Goodreads here. DON’T MISS AN EPISODE! Sign up for our newsletter here! This episode’s book reviews: THE DOOR THAT HAD NEVER BEEN OPENE...2024-04-021h 04

You May Contribute A VerseJust the Facts with Jessica StremerWell that aged poorly. We recorded this in October and were very sneaky about dancing around things that haven't been announced yet. But go and check our guest's social media or website and you'll find that Jessica Stremer has - within two calendar years - a full six books announced and in the pipeline. WHEW! Out now are the delightful Great Carrier Reef and Lights Out, and her middle grade Fire Escape releases in just a couple months. I, for one, don't know how she does it and am in awe. Congrats, Jessica! ...2024-03-191h 06

You May Contribute A VerseBehind the Scenes with Tielmour PressTeam Versy is Brenna Jeanneret, children’s lit author, mother, rock climber, outdoors person, and podcaster, Josh Monken, children’s lit author, father, science communicator, and podcaster Jon Seymour, podcast wizard, author/illustrator and family man. Our guest for this conversation was Jon Seymour. You can find Jon on Twitter along with Tielmour Press. DON’T MISS AN EPISODE! Sign up for our newsletter here! The artwork for You May Contribute a Verse features our new quokka mascot, Versey, and was generously created by the great Maddie Frost! Find her on IG @hellomaddiefrost or on he...2024-03-0558 min

You May Contribute A VerseThe Joys of Booking with Gennie Gorback and Audrey Perrott!Our second-ever two-guest episode extravaganza happens now, featuring our buddies Gennie Gorback and Audrey Perrott! These two powerhouse pals have produced a perfect loaf of kidlit goodness for your eyes, ears, and taste buds. I wouldn't spoil the reveal except that I desperately want you to have the link handy so you can bookmark it. VerseShow is proud to reveal Audrey and Gennie's The Joys of Booking! Now go listen to them talk, laugh, cry, and feel joy all about it 2024-02-201h 18

You May Contribute A VerseMarisa Cleveland The Ultimate MatchmakerTeam Versy is Brenna Jeanneret, children’s lit author, mother, rock climber, outdoors person, and podcaster, Josh Monken, children’s lit author, father, science communicator, and podcaster Jon Seymour, podcast wizard, author/illustrator and family man. Our guest for this conversation was Marisa Cleveland. You can find Marisa on Twitter. DON’T MISS AN EPISODE! Sign up for our newsletter here! This episode’s book reviews: LA PRINCESA AND THE PEA by Susan Middleton Elya, illustrated by Juana Martinez Neal BUFFALO WILD written by Deidre Havrelock and illustrated by Azby Whit...2024-02-1357 min

You May Contribute A VerseUnmasking Perfect Man with Troy WilsonI've never seen Perfect Man and Troy Wilson in the same room together. Have you? Could they be the same...? Troy's on the podcast this week, true believers! Excelsior! Between the 1st and 14th of February (of 2024, for those of you living in the future), share this episode on socials and tag us for a chance to win a copy of Perfect Man, in celebration of Perfect Man's 20th anniversary! This episode's reviews: JUMP IN by Shadra Strickland ISLAND GIRLS: FREE THE SEA OF PLASTIC, written by Blair Northen...2024-01-301h 08

You May Contribute A VerseSusan Johnston Taylor in Surprising Shades!Team Versy is Brenna Jeanneret, children’s lit author, mother, rock climber, outdoors person, and podcaster, Josh Monken, children’s lit author, father, science communicator, and podcaster Jon Seymour, podcast wizard, author/illustrator and family man. Our guest for this conversation was Susan Johnston Taylor. You can find Susan on Twitter. DON’T MISS AN EPISODE! Sign up for our newsletter here! This episode’s book reviews: DON’T CALL ME GRUMPYCORN by Sarah McIntyre A GIFT FOR NAI NAI by Kim-Hoa Ung TENACIOUS: FIFTEEN ADVENTURES ALONGSIDE DISABLED AT...2024-01-161h 01

You May Contribute A VerseSteph Campisi’s Year of Being ShamelessSteph Campisi sells caravans by the seashore. So you can camp easy. Enjoy this first chat of 2024 with Steph sounding erudite, Brenna sounding energetic and engaged, and Josh sounding like he had a spring 2023 cold. If you're not already a member of our shared Discord PB Workshop, managed by Nathan Christopher and mentioned herein, join here! DON’T MISS AN EPISODE! Sign up for our newsletter here! We have a Patreon! Check it out here. Just launched - more to come, but there are STICKERS. Thanks to #TeamVersey member St...2024-01-021h 14

You May Contribute A VerseDeath by Confetti: An Interview With Brian GehrleinTeam Versey is Brenna Jeanneret, children’s lit author, mother, rock climber, outdoors person, and podcaster, Josh Monken, children’s lit author, father, science communicator, and podcaster and Jon Seymour, podcast wizard, author/illustrator and family man. Our guest for this conversation was Brian Gehrlein. You can find Brian on Twitter. DON’T MISS AN EPISODE! Sign up for our newsletter here! This episode’s book reviews: TOWN IS BY THE SEA by Joanne Schwartz illustrated by Sydney Smith BLOOM by Julia Seal and MARY WEARS WHAT SHE WANTS...2023-12-191h 07

You May Contribute A VersePedro and Daniel and Federico Erebia and Pepito the Squirrel!An XL-sized episode gift for the holidays follows! Our chat with Federico Erebia about his debut novel Pedro and Daniel (and WAY beyond) is so great. This episode's book reviews: LOU by Breanna Carzoo SEALS ARE JERKS by Jared Chapman THE BEAR ATE YOUR SANDWICH by Julia Sarcone-Roach The artwork for You May Contribute a Verse features our quokka mascot, Versey (holiday version!), and was generously created by the great Maddie Frost! Find her on IG @hellomaddiefrost or on her website Maddie-Frost.com Our th...2023-12-121h 27

You May Contribute A VerseA Cure For Rock Brain with Jilanne HoffmannI’m Brenna Jeanneret, children’s lit author, mother, rock climber, outdoors person, and podcaster joined by Josh Monken, children’s lit author, father, science communicator, and podcaster. Josh and I found that with our powers combined, we could make Captain Planet. Maybe not, but at least our powers combined can make a pretty rad podcast with the help of behind-the-scenes wizardry from Jon Seymour. Our guest for this conversation was Jilanne Hoffmann. You can find Jilanne on Twitter on Instagram and Blue Sky. DON’T MISS AN EPISODE! Sign up for our newslett...2023-12-051h 11

You May Contribute A VerseCome Play Four Square with Cardinal Rule Press!The one where Josh embarrasses himself. On purpose. We talk to Maria Dismondy and Adam Blackman of Cardinal Rule Press this week about how CRP came to be, AND why and how they came to choose and publish Brenna's debut, The Law of Birthdays, out in May 2024 (add it on Goodreads today!)! DON’T MISS AN EPISODE! Sign up for our newsletter here! This episode’s book reviews: RUDELY interrupted by an interloper. Our apologies. The artwork for You May Contribute a Verse features our new qu...2023-11-281h 02

You May Contribute A VerseUp and Down the Scratchy Mountains With Laurel SnyderI’m Brenna Jeanneret, children’s lit author, mother, rock climber, outdoors person, and podcaster joined by Josh Monken, children’s lit author, father, science communicator, and podcaster. Josh and I found that with our powers combined, we could make Captain Planet. Maybe not, but at least our powers combined can make a pretty rad podcast with the help of behind-the-scenes wizardry from Jon Seymour. Our guest for this conversation was Laurel Snyder. You can find Laurel Snyder on Instagram. DON’T MISS AN EPISODE! Sign up for our newsletter here! Thi...2023-11-211h 20

You May Contribute A VerseOh Wait, This is a Writing Podcast? with Rebecca Gardyn Levington"There's a big contract, there are a lot of words in it, and none of them rhyme..." Ah, the perennial conflict with us picture book writers looking to break through. Thankfully for our guest this week, Rebecca Gardyn Levington, she seems to have managed to figure it out, with her 2022 debut Brainstorm quickly followed by this year's Whatever Comes Tomorrow, and apparently many more to come! And hey illustrators, or authors if you're feeling bold, stay tuned (or fast forward if you're pressed for time?) for an illustration challenge at the end of the episode...2023-11-071h 12

You May Contribute A VerseRocket Fuel and Rejection with Malcolm NewsomeI’m Brenna Jeanneret, children’s lit author, mother, rock climber, outdoors person, and podcaster joined by Josh Monken, children’s lit author, father, science communicator, and podcaster. Josh and I found that with our powers combined, we could make Captain Planet. Maybe not, but at least our powers combined can make a pretty rad podcast with the help of behind-the-scenes wizardry from Jon Seymour. Our guest for this conversation was Malcolm Newsome. You can find Malcolm on Twitter and Instagram. DON’T MISS AN EPISODE! Sign up for our newsletter here! ...2023-10-241h 30

You May Contribute A VerseChelsea Lin Wallace’s Rhyme and ReasonWe recorded this during a break in Josh's workday. Please ignore his work phone buzzing incessantly in the background! Chelsea Lin Wallace is incredible and we hope you enjoy this chat! Chelsea's mom is a psychologist, but it's only here that we really delve into the deepest recesses of her mind and our writing inspiration. DON’T MISS AN EPISODE! Sign up for our newsletter here! This episode’s book reviews: Humphrey the Egg-Splorer by Nadia Ali, illustrated by Valenti Gubianas Vampenguin by Lucy Ruth Cummins Donut...2023-10-101h 19

You May Contribute A VerseA Few Beautiful Minutes With Kate Allen FoxI’m Brenna Jeanneret, children’s lit author, mother, rock climber, outdoors person, and podcaster joined by Josh Monken, children’s lit author, father, science communicator, and podcaster. Josh and I found that with our powers combined, we could make Captain Planet. Maybe not, but at least our powers combined can make a pretty rad podcast with the help of behind-the-scenes wizardry from Jon Seymour. Our guest for this conversation was Kate Allen Fox. You can find Kate on Twitter BlueSky and Threads. DON’T MISS AN EPISODE! Sign up for our newsletter here!2023-09-261h 04

You May Contribute A VerseTara Lazar Is Not A JerkThe one where Josh makes Tara Lazar cry with his questions, and the state of the publishing industry makes us all cry. Tara's Flat Cat, illustrated by Pete Oswald, releases today (as of episode publication, September 19th, ALSO unrelatedly Talk Like A Pirate Day)! Check it out! DON’T MISS AN EPISODE! Sign up for our newsletter here! This episode’s book reviews: The Smart Cookie by Jory John and Pete Oswald (of Flat Cat fame!) Goldilocks and the Three Knocks by Gregory Barrington Louis by Tom Lichtenheld 2023-09-191h 04

You May Contribute A VerseLet’s Get Nuts With Steph LucianovicThis is You May Contribute A Verse! I’m Brenna Jeanneret. Kidlit author, and co-host of this podcast, duh! I’m joined by my co-host, Josh Monken, kidlit author, dad, and science communicator. And Podcast Wizard Jon Seymour, an author-illustrator, family man, and data dude. If you’re in the query trenches, if you’re hearing crickets on sub, if you just started, keep going. Steph’s book WHAT IS HOPE illustrated by Kelsey Buzzell drops today and is the perfect button for Steph’s opening point–writing takes time and it’s ok...2023-09-051h 33

You May Contribute A VerseSometimes I Podcast with Jess TownesThe title of this episode is, of course, a play on our guest Jess Townes's latest book Sometimes I Cry, due out in September (2023, for those of you in the future). Jess and Josh are Midwest neighbors! Josh thinks it's really cool that his new buddy Jess works at his own local bookstore. Brenna also thinks it's cool to feature cake in your books. In this episode we kind of unveil some things about cake in Jess's work. Josh is here, Brenna is here, and Jon is here! And our Linktree is here (please subscribe!). 2023-08-291h 00

You May Contribute A VerseFrom Rejection to NYT Best-Selling Author With Pat Zietlow MillerI’m Brenna Jeanneret, children’s lit author, mother, rock climber, outdoors person, and podcaster joined by Josh Monken, children’s lit author, father, science communicator, and podcaster. Josh and I found that with our powers combined, we could make Captain Planet. Maybe not, but at least our powers combined can make a pretty rad podcast with the help of behind-the-scenes wizardry from Jon Seymour. Our guest for this conversation was Pat Z. Miller. You can find Jess on Twitter. Check out more about Sophie’s Squash here. DON’T MISS AN EPISODE...2023-08-221h 05

You May Contribute A VerseClaire Taylor’s Little ThoughtsLittle Thoughts Issue 6 is officially open for submissions, and this episode is officially open for your ears to consume! Our guest this week is Claire Taylor, purveyor and proprietor of Little Thoughts Press Magazine. We get a great glimpse into how Little Thoughts came to be and where things stand today. At the time of recording, the theme reveal late in the episode was a real journalistic scoop! Claire's debut picture book, Benjamin's Sad Day, is also forthcoming from Golden Flece Press! Josh is here, Brenna is here, and Jon is here! And our Linktree is ...2023-08-151h 09

You May Contribute A VerseAn Interview with Jess Hernandez Who Did NOT Forget the Unicorns!I’m Brenna Jeanneret, children’s lit author, mother, rock climber, outdoors person, and podcaster joined by Josh Monken, children’s lit author, father, science communicator, and podcaster. Josh and I found that with our powers combined, we could make Captain Planet. Maybe not, but at least our powers combined can make a pretty rad podcast with the help of behind-the-scenes wizardry from Jon Seymour. Our guest for this conversation was Jess Hernandez. You can find Jess on Twitter. DON’T MISS AN EPISODE! Sign up for our newsletter here! This ep...2023-08-011h 00

You May Contribute A VerseMs. Wauson’s House with Kristin WausonKristin Wauson is Josh's Disney hookup. Want to know more? Better listen! Also, Kristin Wauson's debut picture book Mr. Thatcher's House is wonderful! Josh is here, Brenna is here, and Jon is here! And our Linktree is here (please subscribe!). And Justin Colon's Kidlit Hive editorial services (and other upcoming events!) are here! ------ Our reviews this week: Carson Crosses Canada, written by Linda Bailey, illustrated by Kass Reich Facts vs Opinions vs Robots, written and illustrated by Michael Rex Woven of...2023-07-1857 min

You May Contribute A VerseThe Moo and The Hoo of Publishing with Audrey PerrottI’m Brenna Jeanneret, children’s lit author, mother, rock climber, outdoors person, and podcaster joined by Josh Monken, children’s lit author, father, science communicator, and podcaster. Josh and I have embarked on this kidlit journey together this year, having become critique partners early in the year, only to find that our powers combined could make captain planet. Maybe not, but at least our powers combined can make a pretty good podcast. But we couldn’t do it without the behind-the-scenes wizardry from Jon Seymour. Our guest for this conversation was Audrey Perrott. You can find...2023-07-041h 06

You May Contribute A VerseSparkles Suit Anne Appert!This week's conversation is with - according to their website - artist, author, aunt, and alliterator Anne Appert. And yes I had to re-record all those a-words a bunch of times to get this right. Anne's the author-illustrator of Blob, a book with which I hope you're familiar, which champions individual self-expression, even if it doesn't mean adhering to strict labels other than "I'm me." Their follow-up book comes in winter 2024 and is titled 'What If You Wish,' and really takes a hard look at that central, childlike question, exploring in a gentle way what it...2023-06-201h 03

You May Contribute A VerseThe Many Glittery Layers of Drag Story Hour with Jonathan HamlinI’m Brenna Jeanneret, children’s lit author, mother, rock climber, outdoors person, and podcaster joined by Josh Monken, children’s lit author, father, science communicator, and podcaster. Josh and I have embarked on this kidlit journey together this year, having become critique partners early in the year, only to find that our powers combined could make captain planet. Maybe not, but at least our powers combined can make a pretty good podcast. But we couldn’t do it without the behind-the-scenes wizardry from Jon Seymour. Our guest for this conversation was Jonathan Hamlin. You can find...2023-06-0656 min

You May Contribute A VerseOnce Upon a Time, There Was a Tara TrudelOnce upon a time (whoa-oh), we had a chat with Tara Trudel (wait a minute, wait a minute, there must be more to the story). Tara's take on music, entertainment, kidlit, marketing, and more is fresh and delightful. You know what else is fresh and delightful? Tara's album, FRACTURED: FAIRY TALES REMIXED, which debuted on May 5, just a few weeks ago! Tara Trudel is here. Josh is here, Brenna is here, and Jon is here! And our Linktree is here (please subscribe!). Go stream FRACTURED: FAIRY TALES REMIXED right after you listen to t...2023-05-231h 03

You May Contribute A VerseAme Dyckman Writes the Wacky!No written intro can do this week's conversation with Ame Dyckman justice! If we style ourselves a celebratory and joyous (and educational) kidlit podcast (which we do), this episode maybe sets a new high-water mark for ear-to-ear energy and joy bubbles throughout (except for when I - Josh - have to interrupt with intros and book reviews in my NPR voice, of course), as well as actionable and inspirational insights! Ame Dyckman is here. Josh is here, Brenna is here, and Jon is here! And our Linktree is here (please subscribe!). And make...2023-05-091h 21

You May Contribute A VerseNothing But Heart with Monica AckerI’m Brenna Jeanneret, children’s lit author, mother, rock climber, outdoors person, and podcaster joined by Josh Monken, children’s lit author, father, science communicator, and podcaster. Josh and I have embarked on this kidlit journey together this year, having become critique partners early in the year, only to find that our powers combined could make captain planet. Maybe not, but at least our powers combined can make a pretty good podcast. But we couldn’t do it without the behind-the-scenes assistance from our editor Jon Seymour. Our guest for this conversation was Monica Acker. Y...2023-04-2549 min

You May Contribute A VerseI Think Jessica Whipple Is EnoughThis week we talk to an author and poet whose two books releasing in 2023 cover subjects so incredibly worthy of investigation and exploration. As of the episode drop date, Jessica Whipple's Enough Is... is a week away from release, and deals with a concept we all could stand to grasp a bit better. I Think I Think A Lot releases in August of this year and is similarly special and personal in its subject matter, drawing from Jessica's own personal journey through OCD. We'll cover with Jessica where these books come from and where she hopes they t...2023-04-111h 04

You May Contribute A VerseBe Your Own Hero with Elisa BoxerI’m Brenna Jeanneret, children’s lit author, mother, rock climber, outdoors person, and podcaster joined by Josh Monken, children’s lit author, father, science communicator, and podcaster. Josh and I have embarked on this kidlit journey together this year, having become critique partners early in the year, only to find that our powers combined could make captain planet. Maybe not, but at least our powers combined can make a pretty good podcast. Our guest for this conversation was Elisa Boxer. You can find Elisa on Twitter. This episode’s book reviews: PLOTTIN...2023-03-2855 min

You May Contribute A Verse#ASKKIDLIT with Alison WeissI’m Brenna Jeanneret, children’s lit author, mother, rock climber, outdoors person, and podcaster joined by Josh Monken, children’s lit author, father, science communicator, and podcaster. Josh and I have embarked on this kidlit journey together this year, having become critique partners early in the year, only to find that our powers combined could make captain planet. Maybe not, but at least our powers combined can make a pretty good podcast. Our guest for this conversation was Pixel and Ink’s Acquisitions Editor Alison Weiss. You can find Alison on Twitter. This epis...2023-03-1454 min

You May Contribute A VerseAll Roads Lead Back to Cranberries with Lisl DetlefsenWe sit down this week for a fantastic chat with author Lisl Detlefsen, whose book Farm Boots releases from Feeding Minds Press in a scant couple of weeks as of our episode drop date! Lisl has a bunch of books out in the world, from jetpacks to kicking kittens, but this will be her third book specifically exploring the world of food. As I've covered in previous episodes, I work in agriculture science communications, so this material is really near and dear to my heart! My food bona fides are nothing compared to Lisl's, though. She is...2023-02-281h 14

You May Contribute A VerseFind the Impostor! with Agent Dan CramerNot to play the "our next guest needs no introduction" card, but our next guest needs no introduction because he's been introduced on the podcast before! We talked to Special Agent Dan Cramer over a year ago, exploring his history and path to agenting. Since then I think we have also explored the majority of his client roster as the unofficial, unauthorized podcast of record for Page Turner Literary. Now a year wiser, with some incredible books published and in the pipeline, we sat down with Dan for a level of focus Brenna and I don't usually...2023-02-141h 07

You May Contribute A VerseComing Out of the Broom Closet with Madeleine GunhartI’m Brenna Jeanneret, children’s lit author, mother, rock climber, outdoors person, and podcaster joined by Josh Monken, children’s lit author, father, science communicator, and podcaster. Josh and I have embarked on this kidlit journey together this year, having become critique partners early in the year, only to find that our powers combined could make captain planet. Maybe not, but our combined powers can make a pretty good podcast. Our guest for this conversation was Madeleine Gunahart. You can find Madelin on Twitter, or her linktree. Tarot readings are listed there! This ep...2023-01-3155 min

You May Contribute A VerseJerrold Connors’s House of Donuts and IdeasIf you don't know today's guest, there's at least one easy way to remedy that. Go and listen to our conversation from one year ago, January 2022. Jerrold Connors is a delight and - you'll find - there's MORE than enough ground to cover in this follow up conversation. I daresay The Annual Jerrold is an achievable goal, should our commitment and creativity hold out. Speaking of creativity, you're going to hear only about a million potential title ideas in this episode, but I think we had it in one. Jerrold's House is truly one built of both...2023-01-171h 17

You May Contribute A VerseGuinea Pig Moves with Jolene GutierrezI’m Brenna Jeanneret, children’s lit author, mother, rock climber, outdoors person, and podcaster joined by Josh Monken, children’s lit author, father, science communicator, and podcaster. Josh and I have embarked on this kidlit journey together this year, having become critique partners early in the year, only to find that our powers combined could make captain planet. Maybe not, but at least our powers combined can make a pretty good podcast. Our guest for this conversation was Jolene Gutierrez. You can find Jolene on Twitter, Instagram, or her linktree. This episode’s book rev...2023-01-0358 min

You May Contribute A VerseArtichoke-y Karaoke with Samantha Gassman!Today's guest is author Samantha Gassman, and we have the distinct privilege of discussing her apparently extreme versatility as an artist, encompassing not only her three VERY different published or acquired works, but additionally her military background, her motherhood, her singing ability, and her impeccable rhyme sense. I'll leave her other two books to be discussed in our chat, but did want to introduce DEAR RAINBOW BABY, published as her commercial picture book debut this year. This book is deeply personal to Sam, as you might imagine given the subject matter of miscarriage, pregnancy loss, and the...2022-12-201h 01

You May Contribute A VerseSomething, Something, Books an Interview with Charlene ChuaI’m Brenna Jeanneret, children’s lit author, mother, rock climber, outdoors person, and podcaster joined by Josh Monken, children’s lit author, father, science communicator, and podcaster. Josh and I have embarked on this kidlit journey together this year, having become critique partners early in the year, only to find that our powers combined could make captain planet. Maybe not, but at least our powers combined can make a pretty good podcast. Our guest for this conversation was Charlene Chua. You can find Charlene on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook and TikTok. This episode’s ChewyRev...2022-12-0656 min

You May Contribute A VerseJustin Colon’s Experience Points!Today’s chat features none other than author-illustrator-actor-voice-over…er Justin Colon, creator of the esteemed PBChat on Twitter and overall kidlit powerhouse. Chances are very good that you’re already familiar with Justin, his passion, and his work to foster community among other creatives. Equal parts craft, community, and consideration, this conversation is very much a worthy follow-on to last episode’s chat with – not at all coincidentally – Justin’s agent Jennifer March Soloway of Andrea Brown. We get right into the real stuff this time, starting with some context around the two recent announcements of Justin’s fa...2022-11-221h 19

You May Contribute A VerseCliffhangers, Queries and Bad Guys with Jennifer March SolowayI’m Brenna Jeanneret, children’s lit author, mother, rock climber, outdoors person, and podcaster joined by Josh Monken, children’s lit author, father, science communicator, and podcaster. Josh and I have embarked on this kidlit journey together this year, having become critique partners early in the year, only to find that our powers combined could make captain planet. Maybe not, but at least our powers combined can make a pretty good podcast. Our guest for this conversation was Jennifer March Soloway. You can find Jennifer on Twitter, or on the Andrea Brown website. This e...2022-11-081h 23

You May Contribute A VerseDetours and Dosas with Pamela EhrenbergThe end-of-year season that brings with it so many celebrations and togetherness across cultures, geographies, and faiths feels like the perfect time to share this conversation with author Pamela Ehrenberg! A large part of our chat today centers around the joy of collaboration, finding and building strong relationships, acting in service, and coming together to build something more than the sum of individual parts could alone. We talked today mostly about two of Pamela's books, in addition to her journey as a whole. Detour Ahead is her middle grade collaboration with author Tracy Lopez, centering...2022-10-2551 min

You May Contribute A VerseThe Plop Of Doom! With Lisa RogersI’m Brenna Jeanneret, children’s lit author, mother, rock climber, outdoors person, and podcaster joined by Josh Monken, children’s lit author, father, science communicator, and podcaster. Josh and I have embarked on this kidlit journey together this year, having become critique partners early in the year, only to find that our powers combined could make captain planet. Maybe not, but at least our powers combined can make a pretty good podcast. Our guest for this conversation was Lisa Rogers. You can find Lisa on Twitter, or on her website. This episode’s ChewyRev...2022-10-1151 min

You May Contribute A VersePotatoes and Process with Jennifer Concepcion!Author Jennifer Concepcion’s debut picture book, Potatoes for Pirate Pearl, is slated for an alliterative publication of winter 2023, and you’re absolutely not going to want to miss this book’s – and Jennifer’s – journey to publication. We caught up with Jennifer during her class plan time, which we very much appreciate, at her grade school in Costa Rica. This is such a charming and conversational chat, and fair warning, there’s a lot of agent-author sausage-making in here about Dan Cramer and Page Turner Literary, as Brenna and Jennifer are agency siblings! Lots of wisdom on offer here...2022-09-2747 min

You May Contribute A VerseBe Someone’s Opportunity with Valerie BollingI’m Brenna Jeanneret, children’s lit author, mother, rock climber, outdoors person, and podcaster joined by Josh Monken, children’s lit author, father, science communicator, and podcaster. Josh and I have embarked on this kidlit journey together this year, having become critique partners early in the year, only to find that our powers combined could make captain planet. Maybe not, but at least our powers combined can make a pretty good podcast. Our guest for this conversation was Valerie Bolling. You can find Valerie on Twitter, or by following her Linktr.ee links. This e...2022-09-1346 min

You May Contribute A VerseNothing BUTT Jocelyn Rish!This is the podcast You May Contribute a Verse, where we talk to kidlit creators, share their stories, and learn from their journeys. Is this a nonfiction podcast? I’ve never thought about it that way, but the more we talked to today’s guest Jocelyn Rish about her book Battle of the Butts – and her journey into nonfiction – the more we realized that we’re here just like Jocelyn, to inform and educate, but also to entertain and laugh! Jocelyn’s been writing for a long time. Like many of us, she’s written a lot that she...2022-09-0654 min

You May Contribute A VerseOMG! Aerospace And Birds With Joyce Sweeney!I’m Brenna Jeanneret, children’s lit author, mother, rock climber, outdoors person, and podcaster joined by Josh Monken, children’s lit author, father, science communicator, and podcaster. Josh and I have embarked on this kidlit journey together this year, having become critique partners early in the year, only to find that our powers combined could make captain planet. Maybe not, but at least our powers combined can make a pretty good podcast. Our guest for this conversation was Joyce Sweeney. You can find Joyce on Twitter or on The Seymour Agency website. Thi...2022-08-3052 min

You May Contribute A VerseVerseShow Archive: Take Your Heart and Make It Art with Samantha Berger! Part 2!It's Samantha Berger, Part 2! And the end of the #BeforeBrenna times! One small rumination on genuineness: not only did I wring an hour and a half out of her (today's ep being the latter half of that interrupted conversation), but Samantha Berger followed up, unbidden, with me in one of the most encouraging emails I've ever received. Encouraging both in its content and in the "trails of glitter" consistency of character that Sam showed in bothering to write and send it. I won't share it here, but I will summarize it because a lot of...2022-08-2340 min

You May Contribute A VerseVerseShow Archive: Trails of Glitter with Samantha Berger! Part 1!The final two #BeforeBrenna episodes air this week and next! This week: Samantha Berger, Part 1. My first question for this week's episode is this: why do I sound so much more like a Jim-Henson-does-semi-professional-adult-man Muppet voice this time than other interviews? I'm not complaining since part of what we discuss does include Muppets and Sesame Street, but it's striking. I'm choosing to air this episode in its uncut original entirety, with original Robby Zar theme song and original intro. It was at this point in 2019 that I had begun to hit my stride with the...2022-08-1654 min

You May Contribute A VerseVerseShow Archive: Pivot and Diversify with Joyce WanThis week's episode is a re-air of my 2019 conversation with illustrator and author Joyce Wan! If you’ve never listened to this episode, it’s a good one. In preparing to rerun it, I rediscovered it. A lot of things went through my head during this relisten. First, a rare glimpse at being completely happy with my creative work. This is a really good conversation and I’m glad of the chance to re-air it. Two, Joyce has a holistic perspective that we don’t always get to experience. Partially informed by my ignorance into the kidl...2022-08-021h 19

You May Contribute A VerseVerseShow Archive: If You Please Everyone You’re Not Doing Something Real with Steve LightI’m Brenna Jeanneret, children’s lit author, mother, rock climber, outdoors person, and podcaster joined by Josh Monken, children’s lit author, father, science communicator, and podcaster. Josh and I have embarked on this kidlit journey together this year, having become critique partners early in the year, only to find that our powers combined could make captain planet. Maybe not, but at least our powers combined can make a pretty good podcast. Our guest for this conversation was Steve Light. You can find Steve on Twitter and on his website. The artwork for You...2022-07-191h 05

You May Contribute A VerseVerseShow Archive: Nothing Changes Unless You Change It with Kelly LightIt’s the flipside of the golden ticket this week with one from the archives: author-illustrator Kelly Light! Way back in 2019 I started a podcast called What It Takes to Make. I thought at the time that my life wasn’t going to have space for the kind of creativity I wanted. I figured I’d use my journalism background to live vicariously through creators of different stripes, from filmmakers to dancers to kidlit authors. Little did I know, a couple of things transpired as a result of those early efforts. The name changed pretty early...2022-07-051h 27

You May Contribute A VerseFinding Your Community of Creative Weirdos with Julie HedlundI’m Brenna Jeanneret, children’s lit author, mother, rock climber, outdoors person, and podcaster joined by Josh Monken, children’s lit author, father, science communicator, and podcaster. Josh and I have embarked on this kidlit journey together this year, having become critique partners early in the year, only to find that our powers combined could make captain planet. Maybe not, but at least our powers combined can make a pretty good podcast. Our guest for this conversation was Julie Hedlund, founder of 12x12 and co-founder of Picture Book Summit. Find Julie on Twitter, Instagram, Tic Tok...2022-06-2154 min

You May Contribute A VerseA Podcast for CK with CK MaloneSome conversations show you what the world could be – how great we could all have it – if we just give a little more of ourselves or, put another way, place ourselves firmly outside the center of focus. CK Malone is an educator, author, and giver. They aren’t perfect – we discuss this point in the episode – but what they are and strive to continually be is capital-G Good. From shouting out those who inspired them to boosting the work of others to praise for those who have made them and their work what they are today, thi...2022-06-0754 min

You May Contribute A VerseNick Cave is Gonna Be Fine–An Interview with Ally MalinenkoI’m Brenna Jeanneret, children’s lit author, mother, rock climber, outdoors person, and podcaster joined by Josh Monken, children’s lit author, father, science communicator, and podcaster. Josh and I have embarked on this kidlit journey together this year, having become critique partners early in the year, only to find that our powers combined could make captain planet. Maybe not, but at least our powers combined can make a pretty good podcast. Our guest for this conversation was Ally Malinenko, author of Ghost Girl and the upcoming This Appearing House. You can find Ally on Twit...2022-05-2455 min

You May Contribute A VerseThe Gertie Journey with Karen NespoliI’m Brenna Jeanneret, children’s lit author, mother, rock climber, outdoors person, and podcaster joined by Josh Monken, children’s lit author, father, science communicator, and podcaster. Josh and I have embarked on this kidlit journey together this year, having become critique partners early in the year, only to find that our powers combined could make captain planet. Maybe not, but at least our powers combined can make a pretty good podcast. Our guest for this conversation was Karen Nespoli, author of Gertie Saves the Day illustrated by Daniela Massironi. The best place to find Ka...2022-05-1043 min

You May Contribute A VerseBONUS Betsy Bird, Low-Key Ostrich Gal!Betsy Bird is back! When we have folks on who are generous with their time and their expertise we like to take advantage of that, vampire-style, and wring them dry of every bit of their knowledge we can think to ask. What we have this week is the result of a call to peers and fans, in a podcast-first crowdsourcing effort. You get to hear Brenna and me NOT meander organically through a conversation, but instead curate a much shorter chat sourced by friends. If you haven’t already listened to our full co...2022-05-0321 min

You May Contribute A VerseIt’s Gotta Be Funny with Betsy Bird!I’m Josh Monken, children’s lit author, father, science communicator, and podcaster, joined by Brenna Jeanneret, children’s lit author, mother, avid climber and outdoorsperson, and podcaster! This is the podcast You May Contribute a Verse, where we talk to kidlit creators, share their stories, and learn from their journeys. New blog banners. Kidlit drinks. Ostrich illustrations and fleshy agents. Hot men of children’s literature. Critical race theory! This conversation has it all! As you may have surmised, we do indeed have children’s author, librarian, podcaster, storyteller, funnyperson, blogger, and reviewer Bet...2022-04-261h 06

You May Contribute A VerseSelf-Publishing: An Act of Rebellion with Amanda Esch-CormierI’m Brenna Jeanneret, children’s lit author, mother, rock climber, outdoors person, and podcaster joined by Josh Monken, children’s lit author, father, science communicator, and podcaster. Josh and I have embarked on this kidlit journey together this year, having become critique partners early in the year, only to find that our powers combined could make captain planet. Maybe not, but at least our powers combined can make a pretty good podcast. Our guest for this conversation was Amanda Esch-Cormier, author of Wild and Beautiful illustrated by Naya Kirichenko. You can find Amanda on Twitter...2022-04-1242 min

You May Contribute A VerseRejecting Rejection with Giuseppe CastellanoI’m Josh Monken, children’s lit author, father, science communicator, and podcaster, joined by Brenna Jeanneret, children’s lit author, mother, avid climber and outdoorsperson, and podcaster! This is the podcast You May Contribute a Verse, where we talk to kidlit creators, share their stories, and learn from their journey. Some things are worth waiting for. Our conversation touches on that in more ways than one. Today’s guest is Giuseppe Castellano, founder of the Illustration Department, a multifaceted enterprise focusing on encouraging and developing illustrators around the world through online learning and mentorship in a varie...2022-03-291h 03

You May Contribute A VerseNo Notes, Just Vibes With Kaitlyn SanchezI’m Brenna Jeanneret, children’s lit author, mother, rock climber, outdoors person, and podcaster joined by Josh Monken, children’s lit author, father, science communicator, and podcaster. Josh and I have embarked on this kidlit journey together this year, having become critique partners early in the year, only to find that our powers combined could make captain planet. Maybe not, but at least our powers combined can make a pretty good podcast. Our guest for this conversation was Kaitlyn Sanchez, a literary agent at Context Literary. You can find her on Twitter @KaitlynLeann17 and his web...2022-03-1452 min

You May Contribute A VerseChaos Ensues with Kaz Windness!I’m Josh Monken, children’s lit author, father, science communicator, and podcaster, joined by Brenna Jeanneret, children’s lit author, mother, avid climber and outdoorsperson, and podcaster! This is the podcast You May Contribute a Verse, where we talk to kidlit creators, share their stories, and learn from their journey. I think we’re starting to establish that there’s no such thing as a normal kidlit publishing journey. Our guest today is author-illustrator Kaz Windness, out with her debut picture book, Swim, Jim! this May. Among Kaz’s claims to fame prior to this year’s de...2022-03-0143 min