Shows
The We Make Children’s Books Podcast(Episode 26): Sandy Murphy: Bringing Lake Champlain to Life Through Graphic Novels#OurScrumptiousLake #SandyMurphy #LakeChamplain #EnvironmentalEducation #GraphicNovel #MiddleGradeBooks #ScienceForKids #WaterStewardship #Phytoplankton #LakeEcosystem #ChildrensBooks #ScienceLiteracy #NatureLovers #VermontAuthors #LakeLife
Join us in exploring "Our Scrumptious Lake PHYTOTASTIC!"—a unique graphic novel that dives into the aquatic ecosystem of Lake Champlain. In this interview, author Sandy Murphy shares insights into creating this enlightening and humorous science-themed book. Designed for middle-grade students but perfect for water enthusiasts of all ages, the novel features phytoplankton and a diverse lake community navigating environmental challenges. Discover how this story stirs empathy, promotes lake stewardship, and makes science accessible and fun. Plus, don't miss Sandy's personal connection to...2025-05-1135 minThe We Make Children’s Books Podcast(Episode 25): How Emily Drouin Shapes Young Minds with Comics and Creativity#EmilyDrouin #KidsConNewEngland #ChildrensBooks #ArtEducation #ComicConForKids #Illustration #GraphicDesign #ProfessionalIllustrator #Animation #Cartooning #LiteracyThroughComics #ArtForKids #CreativeLearning #CosplayFun #InspiringCreativity
Join us as we dive into the colorful and creative world of Emily Drouin, a professional illustrator and graphic designer renowned for her work in comics, children’s books, games, and more. In this interview, Emily shares her journey from studying at Keene State College to interning at Disney and creating character designs for Nickelodeon and Netflix Animation. Discover the inspiration behind Kids Con New England, the first and largest comic con for kids in the region, and learn about her dedication to...2025-05-0443 minThe We Make Children’s Books Podcast(Episode 24): C.E. Simpson on Building Worlds in "Brooklyn Mermaid"#CE_Simpson #BrooklynMermaid #ChooseYourOwnAdventure #InteractiveBooks #MermaidAdventures #SaveAtlantis #YABooks #FantasyBooks #BookLovers #AuthorInterview #WritingCommunity #CreativeWriting #Storytelling #ChildrensBooks #YoungAdult
Join us as we dive into the whimsical and enchanting world of "Brooklyn Mermaid," a Choose Your Own Adventure book by C.E. Simpson. In this engaging interview, C.E. Simpson shares insights into the creative process behind this interactive story where YOU decide the fate of a mermaid on a daring quest to save Atlantis. Discover the challenges and triumphs of writing a story with 27 possible endings and explore the depths of imagination with C.E. Simpson's captivating narrative and...2025-04-2735 minThe We Make Children’s Books Podcast(Episode 23): Amy Baron Discusses Life Beyond Demolition in "The Gentle Bulldozer"#AmyBaron #TheGentleBulldozer #ChildrensBooks #Storycomic #KidsLit #AuthorInterview #DebutBook #CreativeWriting #PictureBooks #FamilyReading #Bookworms #Literacy #Storytime #ChildrensAuthor #BookLaunch
Join us on Storycomic as we dive into a delightful conversation with Amy Baron, author of "The Gentle Bulldozer." In her debut children's book, Bulldozer, who spends his days on a construction site, dreams of a life beyond demolition. Amy shares her journey from optometrist to children's book author, drawing from the tales she read to her own children as inspiration. Tune in to learn about her creative process, the transition from healthcare to storytelling, and her vision for Bulldozer's adventures. Whether...2025-04-2034 minThe We Make Children’s Books Podcast(Episode 22): The Art of Storytelling with Josh Funk: Pancakes, French Toast, and Missing Letters#JoshFunk #LadyPancakeSirFrenchToast #ChildrensBooks #AuthorInterview #KidsLit #Storytime #MyPetFeet #Bookworms #ReadAloud #Literacy #CreativeWriting #IllustratedBooks #ParentsCorner #EducationalBooks #Storycomic
Join us on Storycomic as we sit down with beloved children’s book author Josh Funk to dive into his creative world. We discuss his popular "Lady Pancake & Sir French Toast" series and his unique story "My Pet Feet," exploring the whimsy and heart behind his work. Josh shares insights on his collaboration with illustrators, the joy of writing for children, and how he crafts his engaging, rhyming narratives. Whether you're a parent, educator, or young reader, this interview offers a delightful pe...2025-04-1349 minThe We Make Children’s Books Podcast(Episode 21): Go-Karts, Monkeys, and Mischief: Inside 'It's Monkey Time!'#ItsMonkeyTime #MeetMurray #GaryDufner #PhilAvelli #KidsComics #ComicBookCreators #GoKartAdventures #MonkeyMischief #GullsvilleAdventures #CreativeStorytelling #ChildrensBooks #ComicBookArt #FunReads #FamilyFriendlyComics #StoryBehindTheBook
Join us as we dive into the whimsical world of "It's Monkey Time! - Meet Murray!" with creators Gary Dufner and Phil Avelli. In this exclusive interview, we explore the origins and inspirations behind their latest kids' comic, set in the transformed town of Gullsville—once Dullsville—now alive with adventure thanks to Murray the monkey and a group of inventive kids. Discover how a simple accident with a go-kart sparks a series of hilarious events, leading to battles against the nefarious Virg...2025-04-0637 minThe We Make Children’s Books Podcast(Episode 20): Explore the Quirky World of Doodie with Samuel Vera#SamuelVera #IndieComics #GraphicNovel #AlienInMyToilet #ComicBookCreator #ComicArt #Storytelling #IndieArtist #ComicBooks #KidsComics #CreativeWriting #ComicLife #NewComics #ComicBookArt #DoodieAdventures
In an engaging interview, Samuel Vera shared the inspiration and creative process behind his engaging graphic novel series, "There's an Alien in my Toilet." Known for his whimsical and humorous storytelling, Samuel discussed the evolution of his charismatic character, Doodarious Uranius, affectionately known as Doodie. The character’s adventures, which Samuel intricately crafts, aim not only to entertain but also to spark imagination in readers of all ages.
Samuel explained how his love for animation and classic comedy influenced the to...2025-03-3035 minThe We Make Children’s Books Podcast(Episode 19): Understanding Autism: An Interview with Children’s Author Nicole Latimer#NicoleLatimer #NeedAFriend #SignLanguage #ChildrensBooks #AutismAwareness #NonverbalCommunication #Parenting #InclusiveEducation #SpecialNeeds #AutismAcceptance #FamilyLearning #Storytelling #BookInterview #EducationalBooks #CommunicationSkills
In an enlightening interview, Nicole Latimer shared the personal story behind her children's book, "Need A Friend?: Learning to Sign With Rennon." As a mother of a nonverbal child on the autism spectrum, Nicole crafted a narrative that is both educational and deeply personal. Her book aims to teach young readers and their families about sign language as a vital form of communication, fostering understanding and friendship with nonverbal individuals.
"Need A Friend?" is inspired by her son Rennon’s ex...2025-03-2330 minThe We Make Children’s Books Podcast(Episode 18): Arthur Strangekin: Crafting Humor and Heart in Children’s Literature#ArthurStrangekin #NotAFox #ChildrensBooks #PictureBooks #AuthorInterview #IllustratorLife #KidsLit #ReadAloud #Bookworms #StoryTime #CreativeWriting #IllustrationArt #FamilyReading #LiteraryJoy #BookLaunch
In our latest interview, we had the pleasure of speaking with Arthur Strangekin, the imaginative force behind the delightful children's book, "Not A Fox." Arthur, who not only penned but also illustrated this engaging tale, shared his insights into the creative process and his passion for storytelling that resonates with both young readers and adults.
"Not A Fox" is a humorous and captivating story about a fox plotting the chicken heist of the century, cleverly told through a series of...2025-03-1651 minThe We Make Children’s Books Podcast(Episode 17): How Mark Kistler Became America’s Favorite Drawing Teacher#MarkKistler #ArtEducation #LearnToDraw #TheSecretCity #ImaginationStation #DrawingIn3D #CreativeThinking #ArtWorkshops #ComicCon #DrawingBooks #ArtInspiration #VisualArts #TeachArt #CreativeSkills #drawingtutorial
In a compelling interview, Mark Kistler, a renowned drawing instructor and author, shares insights from his decades-long journey in art education. Known for his TV shows “The Secret City” and “The Imagination Station,” Mark has inspired millions worldwide to explore their creativity through drawing. His approach combines educational rigor with whimsical fun, making art accessible to all ages.
Mark's story is not just about teaching art but fostering a deeper understanding of its impact on personal development and critical thinking...2025-03-0958 minThe We Make Children’s Books Podcast(Episode 16): BRIC-A-BRAC: A Christmas Comic with a Twist - Interview with Ryan Haack#BRICABRAC #RyanHaack #ComicBooks #ChristmasComics #IndieComics #CrowdfundingComics #PlanetChristmas #ComicBookCreator #WarComics #HolidaySpecials #ComicBookArt #SolsticeEater #FatherChristmas #FantasyComics #comicinterviews
In an enlightening interview, Ryan Haack, the creative force behind the BRIC-A-BRAC comic series, opens up about the latest installment of his Christmas-themed fantasy epic. Set on the war-torn Planet Christmas, the third issue, titled "The Wages of War," escalates the conflict with the introduction of the Solstice Eater, a pivotal new element that could change the course of the war.
Ryan discusses his unique fusion of festive elements with intense narrative conflicts, drawing inspiration from his love for Star W...2025-03-0250 minThe We Make Children’s Books Podcast(Episode 15): Inside the Artistic and Environmental World of Bethany Stahl#BethanyStahl #ChildrensBooks #EcoFriendly #SaveTheEarth #EnvironmentalEducation #AuthorInterview #Illustrator #Aromatherapy #Herbalism #SustainableLiving #ArtAndScience #ChronicIllness #WildlifeConservation #EducationalBooks #creativeinspiration
In a deeply inspiring interview, Bethany Stahl, an acclaimed author and illustrator, shares her multifaceted journey from a biology student engaged in wildlife conservation to becoming a bestselling children’s author. Bethany’s books, including the notable Save the Earth series, blend her passion for environmental education with engaging storytelling, making complex topics accessible and exciting for young readers.
Throughout the conversation, Bethany delves into how her personal battle with chronic illnesses propelled her towards a creative path, leading her to es...2025-02-2350 minThe We Make Children’s Books Podcast(Episode 14): KP Loundy on Creating Monsters Kids Love: The Story Behind The Monster Treaty of In-Betweeny#KPLoundy #ChildrensBooks #MonsterTreatyOfInBetweeny #KidLit #Storytelling #BedtimeStories #Parenting #CreativeWriting #IllustratedBooks #FamilyReading #KidsAndMonsters #AuthorInterview #BookRelease #FantasyFootballMom #ChildhoodImagination
In an engaging interview, children’s book author KP Loundy opens up about her latest work, The Monster Treaty of In-Betweeny. A whimsical story that addresses children's fears of monsters with a delightful twist, this book reflects KP's unique blend of humor and motherly insight, making the night-time less frightening for kids. Drawing from bedtime stories crafted for her own daughters, KP discusses how she turned nightly storytelling into a career in writing, emphasizing themes of bravery and understanding.
KP al...2025-02-1645 minThe We Make Children’s Books Podcast(Episode 13): The Story Behind Two Girls in Pajamas for Their Mama by Rhonda Jenkins#RhondaJenkins #ChildrensBooks #TwoGirlsInPajamasForTheirMama #KidLit #Storytelling #FamilyBooks #ADHDAwareness #BookRelease #AuthorInterview #ReadAloud #Parenting #ChildDevelopment #EmotionalGrowth #Adventure #literature
In an enlightening conversation, children’s author Rhonda Jenkins shares insights from her latest book, Two Girls in Pajamas for Their Mama. Rhonda, an adventurous mother of four with ADHD, brings a unique perspective to children’s literature, blending real-life experiences with fictional storytelling to address complex emotions. Her book tells the story of Mariam, a spirited girl whose life is upended by a significant family change, teaching young readers about resilience and positive transformation.
Rhonda discusses her approach to writi...2025-02-1025 minThe We Make Children’s Books Podcast(Episode 12): How Vie Portland’s Books Encourage Acceptance | We Make Children's Books#ViePortland #ChildrensBooks #InclusiveBooks #KidsLiterature #AuthorInterview #Storycomic #Bookworms #ReadAloud #EducationalBooks #YoungReaders #DiversityInBooks #Storytelling #Acceptance #SocialEmotionalLearning #ChildrensAuthor
Welcome to "We Make Children's Books," the podcast that explores the imaginative realms of children's literature! I'm Barney Smith from Storycomic.com, and today we're thrilled to welcome the inspiring and award-winning author Vie Portland.
In this episode, Vie discusses her latest children's book, "Where Are We Going?" and shares her experiences with successfully crowdfunding her earlier books, "Who Am I?" and "Kinder Happier You." Vie's journey into writing began during the pandemic when she achieved her long-time goal of...2025-02-1043 minThe We Make Children’s Books Podcast(Episode 11): How Sarah Woodard Uses Children’s Books to Discuss Big Issues#SarahWoodard #ChildrensBooks #ActivistAuthor #KidsBooks #IndieAuthor #ReikiMaster #Storytelling #Bookworms #ReadAloud #EducationalBooks #YoungReaders #DiversityInBooks #EnvironmentalEducation #HumanRightsEducation #LGBTQIABooks #storycomicpresents
Welcome to "We Make Children’s Books," the podcast where we dive into the creative worlds of those who craft stories for young minds. I’m your host, Barney Smith from Storycomic.com. In today’s episode, Episode 11, we’re thrilled to welcome Sarah Woodard, an award-winning indie author and a beacon of activism through children’s literature.
Explore Sarah's extensive collection of over 80 books, which tackle pressing topics like the environment, animal rights, and human rights, as well as themes o...2025-02-1027 minThe We Make Children’s Books Podcast(Episode 10): How Sister Authors Are Changing Children’s Books | The Friendly Bookshelf#TheFriendlyBookshelf #ChildrensBooks #AuthorInterview #CarolineKatherineBrickley #SocialEmotionalLearning #AntiBullying #BookshelfStory #KidsLiterature #Storytelling #VermontAuthors #SEL #PictureBooks #EmpathyInEducation #InclusiveStories #LiteraryInterview
Welcome to We Make Children's Books, we chat with the inspiring twin sisters Caroline & Katherine Brickley, award-winning children’s book authors and anti-bullying advocates. Today, they discuss their latest book, "The Friendly Bookshelf," a unique story that introduces us to Bibli, a bookshelf on a quest for a story that reflects his experience. This tale not only entertains but teaches valuable lessons on kindness, confidence, empathy, and friendship. Dive into this engaging session where we explore how stories can foster social-emotional learning an...2025-02-1032 minThe We Make Children’s Books Podcast(Episode 9): Dancing Through Life’s Pages with Eva Zimet#StorycomicPresents #EvaZimet #LucyDancer #TheLostGrip #PoetryCommunity #ChildrensBooks #DanceArt #PoeticExpression #CreativeJourney #ArtisticStorytelling #VisualArt #LiteraryArt #InterdisciplinaryArt #CanadianArtists #culturalexpression
Join us in as we welcome Eva Zimet, a multifaceted artist, poet, and educator. In this insightful interview, Eva shares the inspirations behind her latest works, "Lucy Dancer" and "The Lost Grip." With a rich background spanning fine arts, dance, law, and literature, Eva brings a unique interdisciplinary approach to her storytelling.
"Lucy Dancer" is a charming picture book that follows the journey of a young girl who discovers her passion for ballet, encapsulating the joy of finding one's true c...2024-07-1631 minThe We Make Children’s Books Podcast(Episode 8): Children's Author Lynn McAllister on Tech Dangers and Ocean Pollution | Pixie Van Dimple#LynnMcAllister #ChildrensBooks #AuthorInterview #PixieVanDimple #EnvironmentalAwareness #TechDangers #YouthLiterature #Storytelling #BookSeries #bristishauthor #ChildEducation #EcoConscious #TechSavvy #SmartphoneSafety #oceanconservationnamibia
Welcome to We Make Children's Books! In this Episode, we have the pleasure of interviewing Lynn McAllister, an internationally acclaimed children's book author known for her engaging and timely stories. Today, Lynn joins us to discuss her "Pixie Van Dimple" series, which tackles pressing issues faced by today’s youth, particularly around technology and environmental concerns. Visit Lynn’s website at www.lynn-mcallister.com to explore more of her work.
Storycomic Logo designed by Gregory Giordano
See more of Greg’...2024-07-1628 minThe We Make Children’s Books Podcast(Episode 7): Kamila Król's Rusalka: Unveiling Slavic Mythology#KamilaKról #Rusalka #SlavicMythology #GraphicNovel #AwardWinningIllustrator #ChildrensBooks #FolkloreArt #DreamlikeTales #Storycomic #IllustratorInsights #MythicalStories #ArtAndMyth #CreativeProcess #PigeonMakesArt #VisualStorytelling
Step into the mystical world of children's literature in this captivating episode of We Make Children's Books. Your host, Barney Smith from Storycomic.com, is thrilled to introduce Kamila Król, an internationally acclaimed illustrator whose work transcends the ordinary. In this episode, Kamila shares insights into her latest masterpiece, the award-winning graphic novel "Rusalka | Part 1". This enchanting tale, inspired by Slavic mythology, unravels the story of a mythical woman endowed with strange powers and harboring a dark secret.
Jo...2024-03-1422 minThe We Make Children’s Books Podcast(Episode 6): Illustrating Dreams: An Insightful Chat with Anoosha Syed#WeMakeChildrensBooks #AnooshaSyed #ChildrensBookIllustration #CharacterDesign #FreelanceIllustrator #ArtisticAdvice #CreativeJourney #IllustrationTips #Storycomic #KidsBooksArt #IllustratorLife #DrawingForKids #VisualStorytelling #InspiringArtists #CreativeProcess
Dive into the colorful world of children's literature with host Barney Smith from Storycomic.com in this engaging episode of We Make Children's Books. Today, we're thrilled to spotlight Anoosha Syed, an internationally recognized and award-winning illustrator and character designer. Anoosha shares her journey through the past five years as a full-time freelance illustrator, highlighting her successes, challenges, and the opportunities she's embraced along the way.
Gain invaluable insights as Anoosha provides great advice and tips for aspiring illustrators and...2024-03-0139 minThe We Make Children’s Books Podcast(Episode 5): Elizabeth Hart: Weaving Magic in ’Before the Fairy Ball#ElizabethHart #BeforeTheFairyBall #ChildrensBooks #StorycomicPresents #AustralianAuthors #FairyTales #KidsLiterature #ParentingAndReading #CreativeWriting #ASDRepresentation #FibromyalgiaAwareness #StorytellingMagic #FamilyStories #IllustratedBooks #EmergingAuthors #BookLovers #ReadWithKids #LiteraryJourney #InspiringAuthors #FamilyBondingThroughBooks
Welcome to another exciting episode! I'm your host, Barney Smith from storycomic.com, and today we have a special treat for our listeners. Joining us is the talented and inspiring Australian children’s book author, Elizabeth Hart. She's here to share her journey and discuss her delightful new book, "Before the Fairy Ball."
About "Before the Fairy Ball": In this enchanting tale, sisters Sarah and Sophia are tasked with planning the next Fairy Ball by th...2024-02-1526 minThe We Make Children’s Books Podcast(Episode 4): Creating Worlds for Kids: Questlings RPG with Banana Chan & Tim Devine#StorycomicPresents #Questlings #ChildrensRPG #BananaChan #TimDevine #RolePlayingGames #Kickstarter #GameDesign #CreativeStorytelling #FamilyGaming #ImaginativePlay
Welcome to another exciting episode! I'm your host, Barney Smith, and today we're diving into a world where imagination and role-playing merge to create unforgettable adventures for children. We're thrilled to have with us Banana Chan and Tim Devine, the creative minds behind the widely anticipated Kickstarter project, Questlings - A Children's Book Series and RPG Adventure!
About Our Guests:
Banana Chan: A renowned game designer and writer, known for works like Jiangshi: Blood in the Banquet Hall, Scooby-Doo: Betrayal at M...2024-02-0143 minThe We Make Children’s Books Podcast(Episode 3): Amazing Tales and Beyond: Martin Lloyd’s Journey in Children’s Gaming#StorycomicPresents #MartinLloyd #AmazingTales #ChildrensRPG #Storytelling #CreativePlay #RolePlayingGames #Imagination #FamilyGaming #AmazingHeroes #GameDesign #Parenting #EducationalGames #InteractiveStorytelling #FamilyFun
Welcome to Episode 34 of Storycomic Presents, where we delve into the fascinating world of storytelling and art. I'm your host, Barney Smith, and today we have the pleasure of interviewing Martin Lloyd, the creative mind behind the renowned children's role-playing game, Amazing Tales.
About Our Guest: Martin Lloyd Martin Lloyd is not just a game creator; he's a visionary who has brought to life a unique gaming experience that nurtures the imagination and creativity of children. Amazing Tales has become...2024-01-1832 minThe We Make Children’s Books Podcast(Episode 2): Coloring Outside the Lines: Reagan Jackson’s Journey in Children’s Books#ReaganJackson, #CocoLaSwish, #ChildrensBooks, #EmpoweringYouth, #DiverseKidLit, #StorycomicPodcast, #SelfLoveInBooks, #ActivistAuthor, #IllustratedStories, #LeadershipForYouth
Episode 2: Reagan Jackson, "Coco LaSwish: A Fish from a Different Rainbow"
In this inspiring episode of "We Make Children's Books," host Barney Smith of Storycomic.com welcomes Reagan Jackson, a multi-genre writer, activist, and international educator. Reagan shares her journey in creating the beloved children's books "Coco LaSwish: A Fish from a Different Rainbow" and "Coco LaSwish: When Rainbows Go Blue." These stories are not just about the whimsical adventures of a fish, but also about teaching young readers the importance of self-acceptance and standing...2024-01-0131 minThe We Make Children’s Books Podcast(Episode 1): Beyond the Page: The Design Philosophy of Mark Gonyea#ChildrensBooks, #KidLit, #StorycomicPodcast, #MarkGonyea, #ChildrensLiterature, #AuthorInterview, #GraphicDesignInBooks, #IllustratedBooks, #CreativeStorytelling, #BookIllustration, #KidsBookAuthor, #ArtisticJourney, #DesignInKidLit, #InspiringAuthors, #ChildrensBookArt
Episode 1: Mark Gonyea, Children's Book Author and Graphic Designer
Join host Barney Smith of Storycomic.com for an inspiring journey into the creative mind of Mark Gonyea, a Vermont-based children's book author and graphic designer. Mark shares his unique path from dreaming of becoming an astronaut to crafting captivating children's books. In this episode, we delve into Mark's artistic process, explore how his childhood passions for comics, games, and TV shows influenced his storytelling, and get a behind-the-scenes look at...2024-01-0137 min