nonfiction · nonfiction writing · picture book

Writing Wonders

Nonfiction authors often start with wonder. But to spark wonder, we need to “prime the pump” with some knowledge, either by reading a book or article, studying a photograph, or watching a video. That’s where all of Kirsten Larson’s books begin! This post will help you find appropriate media to spark student curiosity and guide them through the process of writing down their wonders. The end result: topics students are eager to research and write during their writing time.

Author Spotlight Series · nonfiction · picture book · spelling

Can You Spell U-p-l-i-f-t? The Power of Spelling to Level the Playing Field

In 1936, eighth grader MacNolia Cox became the first African American to win the Akron, Ohio spelling bee and to advance to the finals in the national bee. How Do You Spell Unfair is the story of her groundbreaking achievement against a backdrop of racial discrimination.

art · Author Spotlight Series · illustrations · illustrators

Finding Inspiration: A Children’s Book Illustrator’s Journey

A journey through diversity, emotions, and nature: A children's book illustrator's endless pursuit of inspiration.

Author Spotlight Series · teacher-as-writer · writer's notebook

Doing More to Inspire

The things that motivate author Dana Kramaroff, to push through writing heavy content, are also what motivates so many of her students. She values the habits that energize her process, the tricks she uses to keep going, and the ways in which she helps herself when writing is difficult.

Author Spotlight Series · the persona of a writer · writers

No, Really. I’m a Writer

Crystal Hubbard states, "I don't hide that I write. But I probably don't talk about it as much as I should in terms of strengthening my 'brand.'"

Author Spotlight Series · partnerships · poetry

Death is My Writing Partner

Many authors appreciate the support of writing group friends to provide feedback and perspective on projects. Amy Ludwig VanDerwater gratefully writes with Death by her side.

Author Spotlight Series · journaling · picture book

Power of Curiosity

Author Darshana Khiani shares why stories start with curiosity and why you need a lot of them. Learn how to help children harness the stories all around.

audience · Author Spotlight Series · Joy · picture book

Make Your Audience’s Eyes Shine

Author Chana Stiefel shares how a maestro’s philosophy can help you connect with readers.

poetry

Starting the Year with Poetry

If you’d like to start the school year with a poem or two, this post may give you a few ideas that have worked for author Connie Wanek.

Author Spotlight Series · middle grade novel

Rejection, Love, and Writing

Middle grade author Elly Swartz shares how true authenticity and emotional resonance are the secret sauce in her writing, and how important it is for children to dream big and understand that rejection doesn’t define them.

Author Spotlight Series

Writing Ten Blocks to the Big Wok

Author-illustrator Ying-Hwa Hu is reminiscing the sunny walk in San Francisco’s Chinatown that brought about the creation of her author-illustrator solo debut Ten Blocks to the Big Wok. The sights, sound and tight-knit community she witnessed come together in a picture of happiness she tells in her story.

Author Spotlight Series · graphic novel · middle grade novel

Graphic Novels Combine Words and Images to Create a Unique Art Form

Cartoonist Gavin Aung Than shares the process of creating his middle-grade graphic novel series, Super Sidekicks.