Shows
Coaching KidLitEpisode 40: Combining Cultural Aspects with Harshita JerathSharon and Christy welcome Guest Harshita Jerath, author of picture books such as "The Leaping Ladoo" and "Cooler Than Lemonade" to discuss how she blends elements from her Indian heritage with American experiences in her writing, creating stories that resonate with broader audiences while maintaining cultural authenticity.
Visti Harshita online at:
Website: harshitajerath.com
Instagram: @hjjerath
Facebook: Harshita Jerath Books and Blog
2025-04-0234 minCoaching KidLitEpisode 39: Ins and Outs of Indie Publishing with Guest Natalie WrightIn this episode of Coaching KidLit, host Sharon Skinner dives into the ins and outs of indie publishing with guest Natalie Wright. Natalie shares her journey from lawyer to successful indie author, discussing her writing process, character development, and the importance of a strong author platform. She offers valuable insights into creating emotionally resonant stories and building an engaged readership. Sharon and Natalie also emphasize the significance of authenticity and deep connection with target readers in both writing and marketing strategies.
2025-03-0547 minCoaching KidLitEpisode 38: Digging Into Middle Grade with Guest Janet FoxIn this episode of Coaching KidLit, host Sharon Skinner, joined by guest Janet Fox, discusses various aspects of middle grade (MG) writing. Janet shares her writing journey, her passion for MG, and offers valuable insights on the craft of writing, particularly focusing on MG readers, character development, the importance of passion in writing, and tackling the challenges of writing mysteries and contemporary stories.
Janet Fox is online at janetsfox.com and Fox Tales on Substack
2025-02-0535 minCoaching KidLitEpisode 37: Poetry in Picture Books with Guest Dianne WhiteSharon Skinner interviews Dianne White, an esteemed picture book author known for works such as "Blue on Blue" and "Who Eats Orange." They delve into Dianne's background, discussing her journey from being an elementary school teacher to becoming a celebrated author. Dianne shares insights on how her teaching career and love for languages have influenced her storytelling. The conversation also highlights the time-intensive nature of creating picture books and the value of persistence.
2025-01-0131 minCoaching KidLitEpisode 36: Line-Level Language with Sara GentryIn this episode of Coaching KidLit, Author Accelerator Certified Book Coach Sara Gentry interviews Sharon about line level language and writing and revising KidLit. They focus on creating engaging language for picture books, establishing authentic middle-grade voices, and developing complex stories in young adult literature.
The conversation highlights the importance of sensory details, precise word choices, and character perspectives to make stories resonate with young readers. Sharon emphasizes the significance of revision for line-level writing, using mentor texts, and understanding the unique sensory experiences of characters to enhance storytelling.
Download Sharon's Sensory Detail R...2024-12-0429 minCoaching KidLitCoaching KidLit Episode 35: Handling Research with Guest Laurie CalkhovenIn this episode of Coaching KidLit, hosts Sharon Skinner and Christy Yaros discuss key aspects handling research with returning guest Laurie Calkhoven.
Laurie, an Author Accelerator Certified Book Coach, shares her extensive experience in writing over 50 books for young readers, including tips on conducting effective and organized research for both fiction and nonfiction.
She emphasizes the importance of using trusted sources, primary resources, and libraries, while also sharing practical advice on managing research time and avoiding rabbit holes. Laurie also provides insights into structuring research, drawing inspiration, and repurposing research for different audiences.
Resource...2024-11-0633 minCoaching KidLitEpisode 34: The Value of Community for KidLit Writers with Guest Sara GentryIn this episode, host Christy Yaros and guest Sara Gentry dive into the vital role of community for KidLit writers. They explore various types of writing communities, from large organizations like SCBWI to intimate critique groups, and discuss how to choose the right community for your needs. Christy and Sarah share valuable tips on balancing free and paid resources, the benefits of connecting with fellow writers, and how community support can enhance your writing journey. Whether you're a seasoned author or just starting out, this episode offers practical advice on finding your people in the world of children's literature...2024-10-0225 minCoaching KidLitCoaching KidLit Episode 33: Non-Fiction Chapter Books with Guest Lori AlexanderIn this episode of Coaching KidLit, host Sharon Skinner talks with special guest Lori Alexander about writing and publishing nonfiction for children.
Lori shares her journey from writing picture books to nonfiction, highlighting her award-winning works on historical figures in science and medicine. She discusses her process of finding ideas, conducting deep research, and using narrative techniques to engage young readers. The episode provides actionable advice for aspiring nonfiction KidLit writers and touches on current trends and recommendations for science writing resources.
Find out more about Lori Alexander at https://www.lorialexanderbooks.com/
2024-09-0435 minCoaching KidLitEpisode 32: Demystifying Early KidLit Categories with Guest Laurie CalkhovenSharon and Christy talk with prolific writer and fellow Author Accelerator Book Coach Laurie Calkoven about the differences between various early KidLit categories, including picture books, early readers, and chapter books.
2024-08-0738 minCoaching KidLitEpisode 31: Navigating Time in Storytelling: Past, Present, and FutureIn this episode of Coaching KidLit, hosts Sharon Skinner and Christy Yaros dive into techniques for effectively telling stories that involve backstory, flashbacks, and flash-forwards.
They discuss the importance of understanding the narrative perspective in time and the challenges associated with various methods of integrating past events into the present storyline.
Practical guidelines are given on how to balance storytelling elements to keep the reader engaged without overloading them with information.
00:00 Introduction and Overview
01:00 Understanding the Narrator's Position in Time
02:18 Creating Immediate and Relatable Narratives
04:13 In...2024-07-0334 minCoaching KidLitEpisode 30: Character Emotion on the PageIn this episode, Christy and Sharon delve into the art of getting character emotions on the page and explore effective techniques for showcasing characters in their unique worlds, setting character-specific rules, and crafting emotionally engaging narratives.
2024-06-0532 minCoaching KidLitEpisode 29: Thematic DepthIn this episode of Coaching KidLit, hosts Sharon Skinner and Christy Yaros dive deep into the concept of theme in KidLit writing. They discuss how to think about theme as the overarching idea of a book, touching on Cheryl Klein's concepts of experiential, emotional, and thematic points. The hosts emphasize the importance of connecting with the reader through characters' emotional journeys and how different themes can be explored at varying levels of KidLit, from picture books to young adult novels. They also cover the significance of revision and layering in developing rich, thematic content, and advise writers on planning...2024-05-0137 minCoaching KidLitEpisode 28: The Interplay of Words and Art in Picture Book Writing and Publishing with Guest Michael HaleIn this episode of Coaching KidLit, Sharon talks Picture Books with award-winning author/illustrator and Picture Book publishing guru, Michael Hale.
From the importance of open communication and trusting collaboration between authors and illustrators to the invaluable advice for aspiring creators considering traditional vs. self-publishing, this episode is brimming with inspiration and practical tips about creating book dummies, the value of cheerleaders in your writing journey, and how to bring your best work to life.
Topics Covered:
Concise Storytelling
Paths to Picture Book Publishing
Working with Illustrators
Challenges in Collaboration
Developing the Craft
2024-04-0336 minCoaching KidLitEpisode 27: Writing Craft Book RoundupIn this episode of Coaching KidLit, Christy and Sharon dig into eleven great Writing Craft Books, why they like them, how they use them, and why you might want to check them out.
The discussions centers ways to use of craft writing books and materials when writing KidLit, including tools and approaches for character development, story structure, and effective editing.
Topics covered include:
Editing with a plan
Character development
Emotional storytelling
Respectful diverse representation
Practical writing application
Continuous learning and improvement
Craft books selection and use
Follow us on Instagram and Twitter: @CoachingKidLit2024-03-0636 minCoaching KidLitEpisode 26: Navigating Through Emotional Topics in Middle Grade with Author Karen ChowIn this episode of Coaching KidLit, Christy and Sharon discuss the process of writing and publishing emotionally challenging KidLit with guest, Karen Chow. Chow, a middle-grade novelist and engineer by day, opens up about her debut novel Miracle, in which she explores tough subjects such as cancer, grief, and emotional recovery. Chow shares her experiences from college until her book’s publication, as well as insights about her creative process. She provides advice to aspiring writers, emphasizing the importance of vulnerability in writing and self-care during the process.
00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Karen Chow
01:42 Discussing Ka...2024-02-0740 minCoaching KidLitEpisode 25: Writing Routines and PracticesChristy and Sharon discuss writing routines and processes for writers navigating their creative journeys, including the need for flexibility, embracing imperfection, and finding joy in the process of creating a sustainable and personalized writing routine.
Follow us on Instagram and Twitter: @CoachingKidLit
For more information about Sharon Skinner, visit bookcoachingbysharon.com or follow her on Instagram @sharon_skinner_author_bookcoach and Twitter @SharonSkinner56.
For more information about Christy Yaros, visit christyyaros.com or follow her on Instagram and Twitter @ChristyYaros.
2024-01-0327 minCoaching KidLitEpisode 24: Project Management for Writers with Guest Sara GentryIn this special episode, Sharon takes a break while Christy nerds out with fellow Author Accelerator Certified Book Coach Sara Gentry, focusing on project management for writers. They discuss setting practical deadlines, recognizing personal workflows, and the importance of documenting progress. They also emphasize approaching the creative process with intention while being open to discovery.
02:44 Understanding the Complexity of Writing a Novel
05:44 The Importance of Project Management in Writing
09:35 Setting Realistic Goals and Managing Energy
14:47 Understanding Your Writing Process
20:24 The Role of Planning and Scheduling in Writing...2023-12-0632 minCoaching KidLitEpisode 23: On Your Mark, Get Set, Write! NaNoWriMo and BeyondGet set for a writing sprint with this motivating episode! Join writing coaches Sharon and Christy as they share tips to optimize writing sprints like NaNoWriMo.
Whether you're gearing up for a 30-day creative marathon or simply trying to make steady progress on your WIP, you'll gather insightful advice on planning, accountability, tracking achievements, celebrating small successes, and keeping perspective along the way.
Sharon and Christy draw from their personal experiences with writing challenges to provide an encouraging mix of practical strategies, managing expectations, and giving grace when life happens. You'll walk away inspired to...2023-11-0134 minCoaching KidLitEpisode 22: Writing Speculative Fiction with Guest Sara GentryIn this special episode, Christy takes a break while Sharon geeks out with guest Sara Gentry on speculative fiction: defining this expansive genre, exploring its allure for young readers seeking escapism, touching upon Steampunk's charm, emphasizing nuanced character development while addressing societal issues, and cautioning against didacticism and singular viewpoints.
Follow us on Instagram and Twitter/X: @CoachingKidLit
For more information about Sharon Skinner, visit bookcoachingbysharon.com or follow her on Instagram @sharon_skinner_author_bookcoach and Twitter @SharonSkinner56.
For more information about Christy Yaros, visit christyyaros.com or follow her on Ins...2023-10-0431 minCoaching KidLitEpisode 21: Using Other People’s WordsSharon and Christy discuss the creative possibilities and potential pitfalls of using other authors' words in your book through epigraphs and quotes. They share thoughts on:
Navigating permissions for quoting lyrics, poems, and book passages
When short quotes may fall under fair use
Crafting fictional quotes and sources to fit your story
Using epigraphs artfully to set tone and expectations
Studying how mentor authors incorporate quotes
Deciding if quotes are right for your book and audience
This episode explores how quotes, epigraphs, and excerpts can legally and effectively enhance your work. Sharon and Christy provide tips and food for thought...2023-09-0631 minCoaching KidLitEpisode 20: KidLit 101 with Guests Cheryl Malone and Victoria J. CoeChristy and Sharon talked with Victoria J. Coe and Cheryl Malone, co-authors of Writing KidLit 101: A Self-Guided Course.
Key Topics Discussed:
Backgrounds and journeys of the guests as KidLit writers
Importance of reading current children's books as mentor texts
Differences between genre vs category in KidLit
Craft elements like perspective vs point of view, scenes, character arcs
Writing picture books vs novels
Collaborating to write "Writing KidLit 101" to help new writers
Actionable tips for writing KidLit:
Read debut authors
Examine older and newer books side-by-side
Write a motivational letter to yourself
Relevant Links:
Writing...2023-08-0246 minCoaching KidLitEpisode 19: Scene vs Summary: Balancing Showing and TellingIn this episode, Christy and Sharon discuss the balance between showing and telling in writing. They emphasize the importance of understanding the purpose of each scene and using scene and summary to efficiently convey information to the reader. They also highlight the significance of grounding the reader in each scene and using dialogue and setting effectively to reveal character and emotion. They caution against including unnecessary details that can bog down the story and suggest trusting the reader to fill in gaps and understand the story. Throughout the episode, they provide examples and practical tips for writers to improve...2023-07-0538 minCoaching KidLitEpisode 18: Creating Three-Dimensional LGBTQ+ Characters with Guest Sam CameronIn this episode, Sharon and Christy are joined by fellow Author Accelerator Certified Book Coach Sam Cameron to discuss how to craft nuanced, authentic LGBTQ+ characters that avoid stereotypes. They provide advice on tropes to avoid, positive examples of LGBTQ+ representation in books, and resources for conducting About GLAAD
The Vito Russo Test | GLAAD
"Pride" on Hulu
If you want to learn more about creating three-dimensional LGBTQ+ characters in your kidlit, subscribe to Sam’s newsletter by visiting www.truantpen.com/lgbtq.
Books Mentioned:
Picture Books
Uncle Bobby's Wedding by Sarah S. Brannen
When Aiden Became a B...2023-06-0746 minCoaching KidLitEpisode 17: Re-Envisioning vs RevisingIn this episode:
Christy and Sharon discussed the importance of re-envisioning and revising a manuscript to ensure that it achieves the author's intended point. They emphasized the need to take a step back and look at the big picture, focusing on character arc, plot structure, and other key elements.
Christy and Sharon discussed the importance of taking a break from a manuscript to gain distance and perspective, allowing the subconscious to work out the story's components. They emphasized the need to focus on the story's vision and purpose rather than getting bogged down in minor details.
Sharon and...2023-05-0346 minCoaching KidLitEpisode 16: Category Shifts with Guest Tanja BauerleIn this episode, Sharon and Christy talk with author/illustrator Tanja Bauerle about the joys and challenges of shifting categories from picture books to middle grade, how book coaching helped her level up her novel writing game, and what it's like working on a Revise & Resubmit request from an agent.
Books Mentioned:
Mary's Monster by Lita Judge
The Invention of Hugo Cabret by Brian Selznick
Boat of Dreams by Rogério Coelho
Resources Mentioned:
https://tanjabauerle.com/resources/
https://bookcoachingbysharon.com/start-here-book-coaching-qa/
https://christyyaros.com/writer-resources
2023-04-0535 minCoaching KidLitEpisode 15: Getting the Most Out of Workshops and ConferencesIn this episode, Sharon and Christy talk about attending workshops and conferences for craft. They discuss why they're important, how to decide which ones to attend, and how to get the most out of the ones you do.
Follow us on Instagram and Twitter: @CoachingKidLit
For more information about Sharon Skinner, visit bookcoachingbysharon.com or follow her on Instagram @sharon_skinner_author_bookcoach and Twitter @SharonSkinner56.
For more information about Christy Yaros, visit christyyaros.com or follow her on Instagram and Twitter @ChristyYaros.
2023-03-0139 minCoaching KidLitEpisode 14: Navigating Critique GroupsIn this episode, Sharon and Christy talk about how to navigate critique groups, the positives, perils and pitfalls inherent in getting and giving feedback, and how to find a critique group that will best serve your needs.
Sharon's Critique Guide, "The Art of Critique: Giving and Getting Good Feedback"
Christy's Critique Group Needs Self-Reflection Journal
Follow us on Instagram and Twitter: @CoachingKidLit
For more information about Sharon Skinner, visit bookcoachingbysharon.com.
For more information about Christy Yaros, visit christyyaros.com.
2023-02-0129 minCoaching KidLitEpisode 13: Mentor Texts with Book Coach Sara GentryIn this episode Christy and Sharon are joined by fellow Author Accelerator Certified Book Coach Sara Gentry. Sara, Sharon, and Christy talk about using the Author Accelerator Inside Outline as a tool for studying published books as mentor texts.
Books discussed:
The Next Great Jane by K.L. Going
Roller Girl by Victoria Jamieson
Red, White, and Whole by Rajani LaRocca
May B. by Caroline Starr Rose
After the Fall by Dan Santat
A Wish in the Dark by Christina Soontornvat
Fol...2023-01-0443 min
Bookable Space with Yvonne Battle-FeltonBookable Space with Sharon SkinnerHosted by Yvonne Battle-Felton, this episode of Bookable Space features Sharon Skinner reading from Lostuns Found.About the book: The smoke-covered, steam-powered city of Landings is a rough place where orphans and lost children known as streeters struggle to survive by banding together, forming rival crews. But when their fellow streeters begin to disappear, Gage and Wynd must put aside their long-standing rivalry and work together to rescue their mates from a crew of ruthless, kidnapping smugglers. But can a pact made under pressure be trusted? Written with a wink and a nod to J...2022-11-1517 minCoaching KidLitEpisode 12: Good BeginningsSharon and Christy discuss what makes a good opening for a KidLit novel, and test each other's detective skills with some excellent opening lines from published KidLit.
Follow us on Instagram and Twitter: @CoachingKidLit
For more information about Sharon Skinner, visit bookcoachingbysharon.com.
For more information about Christy Yaros, visit christyyaros.com.
2022-11-0247 minCoaching KidLitEpisode 11: PlotChristy and Sharon talk about plot, different forms of plot/subplot, some of the plotting tools that are available, and dig into plot in KidLit.
Darcy Pattison's Shrunken Manuscript Revision Method: https://www.darcypattison.com/writing/revision/shrunken-manuscript-watch-webinar/
Follow us on Instagram and Twitter: @CoachingKidLit
For more information about Sharon Skinner, visit bookcoachingbysharon.com.
For more information about Christy Yaros, visit christyyaros.com.
2022-10-0538 minCoaching KidLitEpisode 10: How Does a Published KidLit Author Use a Book Coach? with returning guest Cindy L. RodriguezCindy L. Rodriguez returns to chat with Christy and Sharon about the value of hiring a book coach, whether you're just starting out, still aspiring, or a multi-published author.
Cindy’s debut picture book, Three Pockets Full, came out from Cardinal Rule Press on September 1.
Jump to:
[3:04] The Backstory of the Story
[8:02] Critique Group vs. Coach
[11:08] The Manuscript Evaluation
[13:16] On Feedback from Your Book Coach/Editor
[19:29] The Story You Think You're Telling vs What's on the Page
[24:36] Working with a Coach When You Alr...2022-09-0737 minCoaching KidLitEpisode 09: Coaching KidLit: What We Do and HowChristy and Sharon dive into Coaching KidLit, what exactly this book coaching thing is, which is not a very simple answer, but nonetheless an interesting one, because at its essence, it's all about helping you write, edit, and polish your manuscript so it's the best it can be.
Follow us on Instagram and Twitter: @CoachingKidLit
For more information about Sharon Skinner, visit bookcoachingbysharon.com.
For more information about Christy Yaros, visit christyyaros.com.
2022-08-0335 minCoaching KidLitEpisode 08: Using Source MaterialSharon and Christy discuss source material, challenges with adhering too close to facts, and ways you can put some distance between you and the "way things really happened" in order to tell a compelling and emotionally resonant story.
Follow us on Instagram and Twitter: @CoachingKidLit
For more information about Sharon Skinner, visit bookcoachingbysharon.com.
For more information about Christy Yaros, visit christyyaros.com.
2022-07-0638 minCoaching KidLitEpisode 07: KidLit Journeys with Author Cindy L. RodriguezJoin Sharon and Christy as they welcome their first guest, KidLit author Cindy L. Rodriguez, to talk about her journey to KidLit through journalism and teaching middle school. Cindy's debut picture book, THREE POCKETS FULL: A Story of Love, Family, and Tradition, illustrated by Begoña Fernández Corbalán, comes out July 1 from Cardinal Rule Press.
Follow us on Instagram and Twitter: @CoachingKidLit
For more information about Sharon Skinner, visit bookcoachingbysharon.com.
For more information about Christy Yaros, visit christyyaros.com.
2022-06-0143 minCoaching KidLitEpisode 06: Character DevelopmentWhat drives a story is not only what happens to the protagonist, but what it means to them, their choices and the consequences of those choices, and what they choose to do after that. The character journey is what the story really is about. This is especially true in KidLit.
Join Christy and Sharon as they deep dive into character development and discuss ways that KidLit characters differ from adult characters.
Follow us on Instagram and Twitter: @CoachingKidLit
For more information about Sharon Skinner, visit bookcoachingbysharon.com.
For more i...2022-05-0433 minCoaching KidLitEpisode 05: Emotional Truth
The most engaging stories are those that contain emotional truth.
So, what is emotional truth? And how can you get it onto the page?
Christy and Sharon explore what it means to write emotional truth, and how, when you write from a place that is emotionally true, the reader will truly connect to that, even if you’re writing about something they have not personally experienced.
Follow us on Instagram and Twitter: @CoachingKidLit
For more information about Sharon Skinner, visit bookcoachingbysharon.com.
For more information about Christy Yar...2022-04-0623 minCoaching KidLitEpisode 04: Why?“Why?” As book coaches, we like to start with why because the answer is like a mission statement for your book and the engine for doing the work. Why write this story? Why this book? Why are you the person to write this story? Why does it matter? It's an important question, because if you don't know why you're doing something, then it's hard to stick the landing. So, in this episode, we dive into the question of “Why?”
Follow us on Instagram and Twitter: @CoachingKidLit
For more information about Sharon Skinner, visit bookcoach...2022-03-0221 minCoaching KidLitEpisode 03: Who is Your Target Reader?
In this episode, Christy and Sharon dig into why it’s not enough to say, “I'm writing for kids. That's my target audience.”
When it comes to writing for kids, there's a huge range from early literacy through Young Adult. There are a lot of differences between the needs and interests of little ones who are ready for board books and concept books, and those kids and teens who are reading on their own.
Follow us on Instagram and Twitter: @CoachingKidLit
For more information about Sharon Skinner, visit bookcoachingbysharon.com.
For...2022-02-0223 minCoaching KidLitEpisode 02: Beginner MistakesIn this episode we address some common questions about writing for kids and share some of the most common pitfalls, including those we have made ourselves, and offer tips on how to avoid them.
Follow us on Instagram and Twitter: @CoachingKidLit
For more information about Sharon Skinner, visit bookcoachingbysharon.com.
For more information about Christy Yaros, visit christyyaros.com.
2022-01-0528 minCoaching KidLitEpisode 01: What is KidLit?Author Accelerator Certified Book Coaches Christy Yaros and Sharon Skinner talk about what KidLit is and isn't, so our listeners will know what we're talking about when we talk about writing for kids.
Follow us on Instagram and Twitter: @CoachingKidLit
For more information about Sharon Skinner, visit bookcoachingbysharon.com.
For more information about Christy Yaros, visit christyyaros.com.
2021-12-0123 min