Shows
Northwest Book TalkCraig Orback – Children’s Book Illustrator & Storytelling Through ArtIllustrator Craig Orback shares how visual storytelling brings books to life, his work with major publishers, and the influence of Charles Schulz.
2026-04-2928 min
Northwest Book TalkTemple Lentz: Not Quite Home, Community, and the Power of StoryTemple Lentz—author of Not Quite Home and an international award-winning novelist—joins Patty Grasher on Northwest Book Talk. In this episode, Temple discusses how her debut novel explores homelessness, community-building, and unlikely partnerships between women from different backgrounds.Drawing from her work in public service and nonprofit leadership, Temple shares how real-life experiences shaped the story, why fiction can make difficult topics more accessible, and what it takes to create meaningful change at the local level.If you’re interested in socially relevant fiction, women-centered stories, or community-driven solutions, this conversation offers insigh...
2026-04-2225 min
Northwest Book TalkDeb Miller – Forget the Fairy Tale and Find Your Happiness | Book Marketing & Personal EmpowermentDeb Miller, award-winning author of Forget the Fairy Tale and Find Your Happiness, joins Northwest Book Talk to discuss breaking free from expectations and creating your own path to fulfillment.In this conversation, Deb shares:• Her journey from corporate executive to author• Creative, real-world book marketing strategies• How authors can “start where they are”• The connection between storytelling and personal empowermentWith insights drawn from both business and life experience, Deb offers inspiration for readers and practical guidance for authors.📍 Meet Deb at the Northwest Book Fair & Media Fest🔗 Learn more...
2026-04-1426 min
Northwest Book TalkAnna Paul & Brook Trang – Read Northwest: Changing Children’s Lives Through LiteracyHow can one hour a week change a child’s future?In this inspiring episode of Northwest Book Talk, Anna Paul and Brook Trang of Read Northwest share how their Clark County nonprofit is helping children build confidence, improve reading skills, and succeed in school through one-on-one mentoring.From just two schools in 2022 to more than 25 locations and 300 volunteers, Read Northwest is growing rapidly—and making a real impact. You’ll hear how their program works, why early literacy matters so much, and a powerful real-life story of transformation that shows what’s possible when a child...
2026-04-0128 min
Northwest Book TalkKaren Kent – Writing Magical Middle Grade Stories | How to Almost Win a Gingerbread ContestKaren Kent, indie author of How to Almost Win aGingerbread Contest, joins Northwest Book Talk to discuss creating magical middle grade stories filled with friendship, humor, and heart.In this episode, Karen shares the inspiration behind hercharming story set in Cinnamon Falls, where a young girl enters a gingerbread contest only to discover something mysterious—and magical—happening to hercreation overnight. We also talk about writing for middle grade readers, building relatable characters, and the realities of indie publishing and book marketing.Perfect for authors, educators, and readers who love cozy,imaginative storytelling.
2026-03-2627 min
Northwest Book TalkClark Hays & Kathleen McFall (PumpJack Press) — Writing as a Duo + Publishing for AuthorsIn this episode of Northwest Book Talk, host Patty Grasher interviews Clark Hays and Kathleen McFall, the husband-and-wife writing team behind PumpJack Press. With more than a dozen books across genres like paranormal westerns, science fiction, and romantic comedy, they share how they collaborate as co-authors and blend humor with meaningful storytelling in their series The Cowboy and the Vampire.They also discuss their cooperative publishing model, helping authors retain royalties while navigating marketing and distribution. Learn practical insights on writing partnerships, editing, book promotion, and why in-person events still matter in today’s publishing wo...
2026-03-2128 min
Northwest Book TalkLeslie Johansen Nack Interview – Author of Fourteen and Nineteen | Northwest Book TalkIn this episode of Northwest Book Talk, host Patty Grasher interviews author Leslie Johansen Nack about her memoirs Fourteen: A Daughter’s Memoir of Adventure, Sailing and Survival and Nineteen: A Daughter’s Memoir of Reckoning and Recovery.Leslie recounts her remarkable coming-of-age story, growing up aboard a sailboat and sailing across the Pacific Ocean with her father and sisters. Beneath the adventure was a difficult family life marked by trauma and survival, experiences that eventually led her on a journey toward recovery and self-understanding.The conversation also explores Leslie’s historical novel The Blue Butter...
2026-03-1527 min
Northwest Book TalkAdriana Baer | I’m Into This Place – Amplifying Arts & Culture in Clark CountyAdriana Baer joins Northwest Book Talk to share the story behind I’m Into This Place; her podcast, website, newsletter, and now KXRW radio program dedicated to highlighting the arts, culture, heritage, and history of Clark County and Southwest Washington.With a background as a theater director and former Artistic Director of Profile Theatre, Adriana brings a deep understanding of storytelling and creative leadership to her work. After relocating to Clark County, she discovered a vibrant arts community that deserved greater visibility and set out to help amplify it.In this conversation, we explore:• How...
2026-03-0523 min
Northwest Book TalkMary Boone on Writing 70+ Nonfiction Books for Kids and the True Story Behind Pedal PusherAward-winning nonfiction author Mary Boone joins Patty Grasher on Northwest Book Talk to discuss immersive research, writing for young readers, and the powerful true story behind her picture book, Pedal Pusher: How One Woman’s Bicycle Adventure Helped Change the World.Mary has written more than 70 nonfiction books for children and is known for diving headfirst into her subjects — riding elephants, jumping out of airplanes, DNA-testing salmon, and even baking cricket cookies — all to create books that make kids say “WOW!”In this conversation, Mary shares:• How she transitioned from newspaper journalism to children’s n...
2026-02-2630 min
Northwest Book TalkDeb Cushman — Chronicles of Nadavir, Middle Grade Fantasy & Building a Reader CommunityIn this episode of Northwest Book Talk, Patty Grasher talks with middle grade fantasy author Deb Cushman, creator of the Chronicles of Nadavir series.Deb shares her fast-writing, slow-revising approach—explaining how she can draft a book in two months but spend up to two years preparing it for publication. She discusses her use of mastermind groups, beta readers, and professional editing to strengthen each manuscript before release.The conversation also explores Deb’s creative world-building, including her dwarf colony refuge, Norse mythology influences, and the upcoming third book in the series featuring Tip the Elf’...
2026-02-1926 min
Northwest Book TalkCozy Sci-Fi, Starship Cats & Writing at Any Stage of Life | L J DixScience fiction and fantasy author L J Dix joins Northwest Book Talk for a warm conversation about cozy sci-fi, found family storytelling, and building a writing career at any stage of life.Author of the Starship Cat, Star Trader Independence, and Diplomat’s Apprentice series—and her newest cozy sci-fi series, Minstrel’s Luck—L J Dix shares how stories she once told her children became published books, how her background in global supply chains shapes her fictional worlds, and why readers are drawn to hopeful, character-driven science fiction today.She also talks about meeting readers...
2026-02-1225 min
Northwest Book TalkC. T. Carey on Storytelling, Readers, and developing wide distribution for Indie BooksNorthwest Book Talk, host Patty Grasher is joined by author C. T. Carey, who returns to the Northwest Book Fair for a second year. C. T. is the kind of writer readers love discovering in person—approachable, thoughtful, and deeply connected to his stories. In this conversation, we talk about how he describes his books to new readers, what draws people to his work, and what it’s like meeting readers face-to-face at book events. C. T. shared about the importance of developing wide distribution for your books through the major distributors such as I...
2026-02-0527 min
Northwest Book TalkJonno Heyne on Comics, Graphic Novels, and the Joy of Meeting Readers Face-to-FaceCartoonist and graphic novelist Jonno Heyne joins Northwest Book Talk to share his creative journey and love of visual storytelling. He talks about comics as a gateway to literacy and why meeting readers face-to-face at comic cons, book fairs, and community events is the most rewarding part of selling his books.This episode is part of the runway to the Northwest Book Fair.
2026-01-2928 min
Northwest Book TalkNorthwest Book Talk: A New Focus on the Northwest Book Fair & Media FestFor the past two years, Northwest Book Talk has shared conversations with authors and storytellers across the Pacific Northwest. In this solo episode, host Patty Grasher explains a thoughtful reset for the show—bringing a clearer focus to the Northwest Book Fair & Media Fest and the community it serves.This episode reflects on what the show has been, what’s changing, and why this new direction feels both practical and meaningful. Going forward, Northwest Book Talk will spotlight authors, creators, and conversations connected to live literary events, community storytelling, and the growing ecosystem around the Northwest Book Fair...
2026-01-2328 min
Northwest Book TalkInside the Ashland Mystery Fest with Author Ellie AlexanderBestselling cozy mystery author Ellie Alexander joins Patty Grasher on Northwest Book Talk to share how a simple idea blossomed into the beloved Ashland Mystery Fest, now attracting readers and writers from around the world. Ellie talks about balancing festival planning with her writing career, the power of community partnerships, and how immersive, reader-driven events deepen the connection between authors and fans.Tune in for a behind-the-scenes look at one of Oregon’s most charming literary celebrations — and inspiration for anyone who loves mysteries, books, and the Pacific Northwest.🎧 Listen now on Northwest Book Ta...
2025-11-1228 min
Northwest Book TalkBook Events: Lessons, Costs & Connections with Author Caren HahnPatty talks with mystery author Caren Hahn about what really works—and what doesn’t—when authors attend live book events. Caren shares insights from her first author conference, discovering that not all events attract readers, and the importance of clear pricing and presentation. Together, they explore how authors can build deeper reader relationships, manage event costs, and collaborate with others for better exposure.Caren also reveals her favorite event tools—from tall banners to QR codes—and how small, focused gatherings often lead to the most meaningful connections.
2025-11-1229 min
Northwest Book TalkJordan Fitch on How live Events can make lasting connectionsIn this episode of Northwest Book Talk, host Patty Grasher talks with Jordan Fitch, author of NoTown and The Cardinal Line, about how live events can transform the way authors connect with readers. Jordan shares his experiences of meeting new readers at live events, small, large and inbetween. The importance of making real connections, and why in-person events remains a powerful part of building his author platform.🎧 Tune in to discover how signing books at his favorite bar started his live event journey.
2025-11-1129 min
Northwest Book TalkFind Your Unique Author Voice with Abigail RaekeAn exciting episode on Northwest Book Talk that guides new authors to find joy in their writing with clear actionionable steps to avoid confusion and overwhelm.
2025-09-2529 min
Northwest Book TalkHidden History of Pearson Field with Author Martin Middlewood | Northwest Book TalkStep back in time with Northwest Book Talk as author and historian Martin Middlewood shares stories from his new book, Hidden History of Pearson Field. Discover why Pearson Field in Vancouver, Washington is considered the nation’s oldest continuously operating airfield and how it shaped the aviation history of the Pacific Northwest.From the golden age of flight to daring pilots like Silas Christofferson and Tex Rankin, and even connections to Amelia Earhart, Middlewood reveals the fascinating people and events that made Pearson Field a landmark in Clark County history.Whether you’re a fa...
2025-09-1129 min
Northwest Book TalkFantasy, Courage & the Craft of Writing with Dawn ShipmanAward-winning fantasy author Dawn Shipman joins us on Northwest Book Talk to explore her magical world of strong heroines, rich mythology, and heartfelt adventures. From her lifelong love of horses and storytelling to the epic journey behind The Lost Stones of Argonia, Dawn shares her creative process and inspirations. Tune in for a conversation full of imagination, wisdom, and a touch of Pacific Northwest charm.
2025-07-0229 min
Northwest Book TalkExploring Grace-filled Historical Fiction with Kendy PearsonJoin us as Christian historical fiction author Kendy Pearson shares how her faith and love of history intertwine to shape powerful, redemptive stories. From strong female protagonists to richly researched settings, Kendy brings the past to life with heart and purpose. Discover her writing journey, creative insights, and the message of hope woven through every page.
2025-06-0528 min
Northwest Book TalkMystery, Hardware, and a Zen Goat: Meet Paula CharlesIn this episode of Northwest Book Talk, we’re divinginto the charming and twist-filled world of cozy mysteries with author Paula Charles. A fresh and engaging voice on the cozy mystery scene, Paula brings small-town charm, quirky characters, and page-turning puzzles to life in her HomeTown Hardware Mysteries. Writing also under the pen name Jana Rollins, she takes readers on a more meditative but equally mysterious path with her Zen Goat Mystery Series. Tune in as we chat about her writing journey, herinspirations from growing up in a small town, and what it’s like launching notone but...
2025-05-2129 min
Northwest Book TalkUncovering the Threads of Mystery with Jordan FitchSome stories hook you with suspense. Others make you question everything you thought you knew. In The Cardinal Line and Name Town, author Jordan Fitch masterfully does both.A former U.S. Marine turned thriller writer, Jordan brings sharp precision, emotional depth, and a love for the Pacific Northwest into his novels. In our recent Northwest Book Talk interview, we explored the hidden layers of his books, his journey into fiction, and how his real-life adventures have shaped the worlds he creates on the page.
2025-04-2429 min
Northwest Book TalkToni Woodard on Chronic Pain, Resilience, and Her Book I’m FineIn this episode of Northwest Book Talk, host Patty Grasher speaks with Toni Woodard, author of I’m Fine: A Practical Guide for Living with Chronic Pain. With honesty, empathy, and hard-earned wisdom, Toni shares her personal journey through years of physical pain, unsuccessful spinal surgeries, and the emotional toll that often goes unspoken.We dive into the realities of living with chronic pain, the gaps in traditional medical support, and the small, powerful practices that can help people reclaim their joy and purpose—even in the midst of daily discomfort. Whether you're living with pain...
2025-04-1528 min
Northwest Book TalkAron Steinke on SPEECHLESS: Creating Graphic Novels Kids Truly UnderstandIn this episode of NW Book Talk, host Patty Grasher interviews Aron Steinke, Eisner-nominated cartoonist and author of the popular Mr. Wolf’s Class series. Aron discusses his newest standalone graphic novel for kids, SPEECHLESS — a powerful, nearly wordless story about navigating middle school, communication, and self-expression.We explore the creative process behind SPEECHLESS, how Aron’s background as an elementary school teacher informs his stories, and why graphic novels resonate so deeply with young readers.Whether you're a parent, educator, librarian, or middle-grade reader at heart, this episode will leave you inspired.🎧...
2025-03-2629 min
Northwest Book TalkA Lifetime of Art: Gregory Gorham Shares His Story Behind the Strokes🎨 A Lifetime of Art: Gregory Gorham Shares His Story Behind the Strokes 🎨In this inspiring episode of NW Book Talk, we sit down with renowned artist Gregory Gorham, whose book A Lifetime of Art chronicles over 50 years of creativity, craftsmanship, and artistic passion. Gregory takes us on a journey through his evolution as an artist—sharing stories behind his commercial success, personal projects, and the lessons learned along the way. Whether you’re an art lover, an aspiring creative, or simply enjoy a good story about following your passion, this conversation will leave you inspired.🔗 Lea...
2025-03-1124 min
Northwest Book TalkCaren Hahn on Dragons, Suspense, and Fantasy: Best-Selling Author’s Journey – Northwest Book TalkBest-selling author Caren Hahn talks aboutdragons, suspense, and fantasy. This Northwest author started writing for fun and passion before becoming an increasingly in-demand author with 14 books and counting. In this episode, she shares her journey and how the joy of reading and writing helps her deal with life’s stresses.
2025-03-0627 min
Northwest Book TalkHealing, Hope, and Love: Connie Morgan on More Than Luck Required – Northwest Book TalkIn this episode of Northwest Book Talk, author Connie Morgan shares the heartfelt journey behind her book, More Than Luck Required. Through resilience, faith, and love, she navigated life’s challenges to find healing and hope. Listen in as she discusses her personal transformation, the power of perseverance, and the lessons she hopes to share with readers. Tune in now and be inspired! Available on NorthwestBookTalk.com and your favorite podcast platforms.
2025-03-0525 min
Northwest Book TalkThe Secret Behind Jessica Julian's Stunning & Affordable Books: Publishing in CroatiaIn this interview, artist and author Jessica Julian reveals her innovative technique of using her paintings to inspire her children's books.
Learn how her unique approach blends visual art with storytelling, creating engaging narratives that captivate young readers.
Discover the creative process behind her work and how her art enhances the world of children's literature.
2025-01-0929 min
Northwest Book TalkHow to Promote Your Book with Christy Caplan
Join PR expert Christy Caplan on this episode of NW Book
Christy shared valuable tips on leveraging social media, engaging with bloggers, hosting events, and more to help authors boost their book visibility.
Stay tuned for a conversation packed with actionable insights!”
2025-01-0929 min
Northwest Book TalkTransforming Education: Emily Cadiz’s Techniques for Boosting Reading and Creative ThinkingIn this episode of Northwest Book Talk, we sit down with Emily Cadiz, an accomplished author and Early Childhood Reading Specialist, to discuss her innovative approach to early literacy and cognitive development.
Emily’s unique award-winning program is designed to help young readers build foundational skills that not only enhance their reading abilities but also foster creativity and critical thinking.
We dive deep into how her techniques, which focus on developing cognitive reading skills, can be applied to children of all ages—and even adults—stimulating creativity and empowering minds to think outside the box.
...
2024-12-1328 min
Northwest Book TalkPR Made Simple: Easy Strategies for Independent Authors with Christy Caplan
Join Christy Caplan in this insightful podcast episode as she shares easy and effective PR strategies for independent authors.
Learn practical tips on building your author brand, boosting book visibility, and engaging with readers to increase sales.
Whether you're just starting out or looking to refine your PR efforts, Christy provides actionable advice to help indie authors succeed in a competitive market.
Tune in for expert guidance on mastering public relations without the need for a big budget or PR firm.
2024-12-1129 min
Northwest Book TalkDeb Cushman: Crafting Fantasy Adventures for Young Readers
In this episode, we chat with Deb Cushman, author of the middle-grade fantasy-adventure series Chronicles of Nadavir. Deb shares the inspiration behind her debut novel, Frigg’s Journey to Anasgar, and offers a sneak peek at the upcoming second book, Ping’s Mystery in Pixiandria (now available). With roots in the Pacific Northwest, Deb’s love for magical worlds like Narnia and Middle Earth fuels her enchanting stories for young readers. Join us as we explore her creative process, her connection to nature, and the magic of writing for children and teens. Don’t miss this journey into the realms o...
2024-12-0629 min
Northwest Book TalkFrom Manuscript to Masterpiece: Abigail Raeke’s Advice for WritersBook Coach & Developmental Editor Abigail Raeke is a highly respected book coach and developmental editor based in the Pacific Northwest. With over a decade of experience in the publishing industry, Abigail has guided countless authors through the creative process, helping them shape their stories and refine their manuscripts for publication.
Her expertise spans multiple genres, from fiction to memoir, with a keen eye for structure, character development, and narrative flow.
Abigail’s personalized coaching empowers writers to find their unique voice and bring their book projects to life with clarity and purpose.
When she’s...
2024-12-0329 min
Northwest Book TalkRebecca Rook: Writing Young Adult Fiction with Magic, Malice, and Mystery
Step into the imaginative world of Rebecca Rook, a hard of hearing author and tabletop game designer from the Pacific Northwest. In this episode, Rebecca reveals how she brings together magic, malice, and mystery in her young adult fantasy, thriller, and horror novels. A former Hugo House Fellow and participant in the Tin House YA Fiction Workshop, Rebecca shares her insights on storytelling, her experiences in prestigious writing programs, and how her work in tabletop game design informs her approach to crafting compelling narratives. Tune in for a conversation about creativity, representation, and the art of writing unforgettable YA...
2024-12-0329 min
Northwest Book TalkRuby McConnell: Insights on Wilderness, Writing, and the American SpiritJoin us for an inspiring conversation with Ruby McConnell, a geologist, science writer, and advocate for the outdoors. Ruby shares her passion for exploring the human-landscape connection through her acclaimed books, including A Woman’s Guide to the Wild and Ground Truth. We dive into the themes of her upcoming works, Wilderness and the American Spirit and Dirty Secrets, which explore the importance of preserving nature and understanding our impact on the environment. From her journey as a geologist to her role as a storyteller, Ruby offers valuable insights into the beauty and complexity of our natural world. Don’t mi...
2024-12-0329 min
Northwest Book TalkDede Montgomery: Exploring Forgiveness, Courage, and Legacy in Her Memoirs and Fiction
In this episode, we sit down with Dede Montgomery, a 6th generation Oregonian, memoirist, and fiction author, to explore the themes of forgiveness, courage, and resilience in her works. Dede shares insights into her writing journey, including her acclaimed memoirs My Music Man and her latest release, From First Breath to Last. We discuss how her family history and Oregon roots inspire her stories, her passion for advocating worker safety, and how she finds solace in the great outdoors near Portland. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about life, legacy, and the power of storytelling.
2024-12-0329 min
Northwest Book TalkDarcy Guyant’s Real-Life Search and Rescue Missions Inspire Fiction for Kids
Retired U.S. Coast Guard helicopter pilot, Darcy Guyant turns
stories of his actual search and rescue missions into action- packed books for elementary school age readers. And while Darcy uses some social media to promote his books, his greatest success is with live events at schools, book fairs, bazaars, and other venues. If you are an author with captivating true-life stories looking to promote your books, give this episode a listen.
2024-12-0328 min
Northwest Book TalkHow Sue Dockstader Brought Family Tales to Life in Children’s FictionSue shares her challenges of modern publishing and the joys of preserving family legacies through the written word.
2024-12-0329 min
Northwest Book TalkMastering the Craft: Katie Wall’s Insights on Editing and Coaching WritersProfessional Book Coach Katie Wall, a certified book coach and editor at Craft Better Books offers honest, constructive feedback about empowering writers to reach their full potential.
2024-12-0329 min
Northwest Book TalkChristy Peterson Reveals How Authors Can Get Into Independent Bookstores
In this insightful episode, we sit down with Christy Peterson, an expert bookseller, to explore the essential steps for authors looking to get their books into independent bookstores. Christy shares invaluable advice on the importance of professional editing, crafting a compelling book cover, and developing an effective, ongoing marketing plan. These strategies not only make your book stand out but also demonstrate its marketability to bookstore owners, ensuring it earns a spot on their shelves. Whether you're a seasoned author or just starting your journey, this episode is packed with actionable tips to help you succeed in the competitive...
2024-12-0329 min
Northwest Book TalkExploring Fantasy Worlds with Shawna Reppert: Award-Winning Author of The Stolen Luck
Dive into the magical worlds of fantasy and steampunk with award-winning author Shawna Reppert. Known for her gripping storytelling in The Stolen Luck and the Ravensblood series, Shawna shares her creative process, inspirations, and the journey behind her acclaimed works. From Irish music and wolves to historical reenactments and life in Oregon’s wine country, discover the influences that shape her captivating tales. Whether you’re a fantasy fan or an aspiring writer, this episode is packed with insights and inspiration from one of the genre’s most imaginative voices.
2024-12-0325 min
Book Marketing Success PodcastJohn Kremer: Book Marketing Q&A WebinarOn January 16, 2024, John Kremer hosted his 75th Birthday Bash with a Book Marketing Q&A session. In this session, he answered participant questions on marketing books, publicizing books, and more.Sources: https://www.bookauthorauthority.com and https://www.bookmarketingbestsellers.comFree Book OffersFive of the participants in the Q&A webinar made free offers to anyone listening in. Here are their offers.Freddy Niagara Fonseca offer a free ebook for poetry lovers, Nature Poems for a New Dawn. It’s packed with witty and mystical poems you can read on yo...
2024-01-181h 15
5 Things I Love About Books PodcastI Love Books Recommends: Explore Vancouver WashingtonExplore Vancouver Washington showcases little-known destinations across the river from Portland that only insiders know about but visit time and time again. Discover secrets, best tips and inside knowledge to make visiting or even moving to Vancouver the best decision ever.Besides the top 10 must-see attractions in Vancouver and the 10 do-not-miss stops in Clark County, discover breath-taking hidden spots along the river plus amazing historic sites that will deepen your appreciation of Vancouver’s contribution to Pacific Northwest history.Gather a friend and visit Downtown, Uptown and surrounding areas to discover fun places for daytime an...
2023-08-1705 min