12 x 12 Picture Book Podcast

The Life of a Ninja Bookseller

Not only does Jess Townes write incredible picture books, but she's also a Critique Ninja in the 12 x 12 membership AND she's a buyer at an independent bookstore! Jess joins Julie and Kelli in this podcast episode to chat about tips for revising your manuscript and what she thinks picture book creators need to know about the bookselling side of the children's publishing industry.

Here's what you'll discover in this episode:

Tips Jess gives 12 x 12 members for writing and revising their manuscripts What she looks for when giving critiques How to use real-life interactions can inspire your picture book What it's like to have publishers pitch YOU the books on their list The different ways kids attach to books How she works with her fellow bookseller to choose what they sell in the bookstore What came first: the author or the bookseller How being a bookseller inspires what she writes When booksellers start making purchase decisions for winter holiday sales What happens if your book comes out after the big purchases are made What does it mean when your book is remaindered How important holiday books are to booksellers The advantage of speaking directly to customers What is a shelf-talker and how it helps sell books The importance of author/bookseller relationships When to call a bookstore if you're going to be in the area How to approach a bookstore when you'd like them to carry your book What to do if you want to have an event at a store How this bookstore decides which self-published books to carry If bookstore events sell books What sells more than author events How pre-order campaigns impact independent bookstores Why you should coordinate with a local bookstore when doing author visits at schools and other locations What to take into consideration if you're trying to schedule bookstore events If there is an audience for picture books that aren't attached to popular characters or intellectual property

Books mentioned in this episode:

Groundhog Gets It Wrong by Jess Townes and Nicole Miles Spellbound by Jess Townes and Jennifer Harney Sometimes I Cry by Jess Townes and Daniel Miyares Room on the Broom by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler Three Little Witches and the Spooky Old House by Peggy Archer and Gaia Bordicchia Not So Ordinary Ornaments by Paige Hulsey (coming soon, illustrator to be announced) Butt or Face by Kari Lavelle Millie Fleur's Pumpkin Problem by Christy Mandin Does a Bulldozer Have a Butt? by Derek Wilder Julie Andrews: A Little Golden Book by Christy Webster and Sue Cornelison Song After Song: The Musical Life of Julie Andrews by Julie Hedlund and Ilaria Urbinati After the Fall by Dan Santat Shy by Julie Andrews, Emma Walton Hamilton, and Eva Byrne

Links mentioned in this episode:

Jess works at Main St. Books in Charleston, Missouri

The Adult Book Fair Kelli mentioned is put on Magic City Books in Tulsa

Emma Walton Hamilton's podcast episode on turning a real-life event into a picture book

Find out more about Jess Townes and her books on her website

If you enjoy the podcast, please like, subscribe, and review so other kidlit writers can find us!

Have questions for us or ideas for future episodes? Leave us a quick voicemail here.

Thank you for listening!

A trade secret, that is...

Earlier this year, agent and author Miranda Paul gave a webinar called Trade Secrets: Ways to Make Your Picture Book Idea More Commercial. In this podcast episode, we dive into a few topics not covered in the webinar. (You can now get this outstanding webinar for 25% off! Click here.)

Here's what you'll discover in this episode:

What information you should pay attention to in those Publishers Weekly announcements What to consider when you notice a trend Why you should follow agents on social media A current gap in the market Why a universal theme is so important How your book can still be commercial—even if it's not high concept Topics that kids need in picture books What makes a book commercial What is Miranda looking for in submissions (when she opens for submissions again)

Books mentioned in this episode:

Blobfish Throws a Party by Miranda Paul and Maggie Caton I Am Not Happy by Caroline L. Perry and Sydney Hanson So You Want to Be a Fossil by Anna Monders and Ryan Middaugh (coming in 2027) Make Your Mark: The Empowering True Story of the First Known Black Female Tattoo Artist by Jacci Gresham, Sherry Fellores, and David Wilkerson Not Like Every Other Day by Stephanie V.W. Lucianovic and Gabrielle Grimard Zombie and Brain are Friends by Stephanie V.W. Lucianovic and Laan Cham One Plastic Bag: Isatou Ceesay and the Recycling Women of the Gambia by Miranda Paul and Elizabeth Zunon Kaleidoscope of Hope: How Butterfly Life Cycles Reflect Our World by Miranda Paul and Hari and Deepti

Links mentioned in this episode:

Miranda Paul's Trade Secrets: Ways to Make Your Picture Book Idea More Commercial for 25% off!

If you enjoy the podcast, please like, subscribe, and review so other kidlit writers can find us!

Have questions for us or ideas for future episodes? Leave us a quick voicemail here.

Thank you for listening!

Our dear Jane...

The children's writing community lost one of our greats this year when our beloved Jane Yolen passed away.

She is not only the author of over 450 books for kids, she is a teacher, mentor, and inspiration to hundreds (thousands?) of writers. She was constantly giving back to this community and we are all better for it.

In this episode, Julie shares her personal connection to Jane and different things she learned from Jane over the years.

Here's what you'll discover in this episode:

How Julie was introduced to Jane Yolen through her books How Julie met Jane (and her daughter Heidi E.Y. Stemple) in person A taste of Jane's poetry and her poetry practice What it was like to attend Jane's Boot Camp and stay in her house What it was like to have her manuscripts critiqued by Jane Julie's trip to Scotland to stay in Jane's house Who Jane defined as a writer How Jane inspired Julie at a low point in her career Jane-isms The origin story of HOW DO DINOSAURS SAY GOODNIGHT? Some of Julie's favorite Jane Yolen books—including those written for adults Excerpts from interviews with Jane

Books mentioned in this episode:

Here's a Little Poem by Jane Yolen, Andrew Fusek Peters, and Polly Dunbar

Owl Moon by Jane Yolen and John Schoenherr

How Do Dinosaurs Say Goodnight? by Jane Yolen and Mark Teague

The Devil's Arithmetic by Jane Yolen

Come to the Fairies' Ball by Jane Yolen and Gary Lippincott

Over, Bear! Under, Where? by Julie Hedlund and Michael Slack

The Stranded Whale by Jane Yolen and Melanie Cataldo

Elefantastic by Jane Yolen and Brett Helquist

I Am the Storm by Jane Yolen, Heidi E. Y. Stemple, Kristen Howdeshell, and Kevin Howdeshell

Sister Fox's Field Guide to the Writing Life by Jane Yolen

Take Joy by Jane Yolen

Janie Writes a Play by Heidi E.Y. Stemple and Madelyn Goodnight

Links mentioned in this episode:

Link to Jane's Memorial Service

Watch the video version of this episode here: https://youtu.be/BUDmeqawLOU

If you enjoy the podcast, please like, subscribe, and review so other kidlit writers can find us!

Have questions for us or ideas for future episodes? Leave us a quick voicemail here.

Thank you for listening!

What's it like to be a New York Times Bestseller?

It's a momentous time for the 12 x 12 membership and so we bring you a momentous podcast episode!

During the first week of August 2026, not one but TWO 12 x 12 member books were on the New York Times Bestseller List for Children's Picture Books (August 2, 2026). Considering that any book currently in print from Dr. Seuss. Maurice Sendak, and Margaret Wise Brown to award-winners and everything released this year, it's quite an accomplishment to land on the bestseller list.

Congratulations go to 12 x 12 members Kari Lavelle and Michael Benner!

Published by Sourcebooks Explore, Kari's nonfiction picture book BUTT OR FACE landed at number 7 after being in print for 3 years. Illustrated by the incredible Alison Hawkins and published by Orchard/Scholastic, Michael's picture book MAC & CHEESE: THE ORIGIN STORY debuted at #1 the week it came out!!

Two very exciting journeys starting at two very different places. Today, we hear how these bestsellers came to be!

Here's what you'll discover in this episode:

How Julie & Kelli found out about TWO members being on the NYT Bestseller List Who helped BUTT OR FACE land on the list What books you're competing with to get on the list The role Michael's publisher played in getting MAC AND CHEESE to the #1 spot How funny books attract sales How YOU can help an author make it on the bestseller list The importance of pre-order sales How Barnes & Noble supports pre-orders What's a frontlist title vs. a backlist title The surprising ways Michael and Kari found out the news Why BUTT OR FACE doesn't have an illustrator Puns for the win! The origin story of MAC AND CHEESE: THE ORIGIN STORY The different ways a book can find an audience What does it mean to be a publisher's "lead book" How Kari and Michael stay true to themselves when writing What's involved with having a special edition of your book for Barnes & Noble What it was like when Michael saw Alison's illustrations A look at the fun event kits created for MAC & CHEESE What it's like to work on a book that becomes a series and how to balance your creativity between projects The fun of read-alouds What books Kari and Michael wish they would have written

Books mentioned in this episode:

BUTT OR FACE by Kari Lavelle MAC & CHEESE: THE ORIGIN STORY by Michael Benner and Alison Hawkins WE MOVE THE WORLD by Kari Lavelle and Nabi H. Ali ODE TO GRAPEFRUIT: HOW JAMES EARL JONES FOUND HIS VOICE by Kari Lavelle and Bryan Collier MILK AND COOKES: THE PERFECT PAIR by Michael Benner and Alison Hawkins E-MERGENCY by Tom Lichtenheld and Ezra Fields-Meyer WHILE WE'RE HERE BY Anne Wynter and Micha Archer

Links mentioned in this episode:

See the video for this episode on YouTube Picture Book Summit's Home Page

If you enjoy the podcast, please like, subscribe, and review so other kidlit writers can find us!

Have questions for us or ideas for future episodes? Leave us a quick voicemail here.

Thank you for listening!

What You Need to Know About Author Press Kits

Kelli Panique has been working behind-the-scenes at events for creatives for almost 15 years now. As a regular part of her job, she contacts and coordinates with speakers for events and has discovered things you can do to make working with you a breeze.

Here's what you'll discover in this episode:

Why you need an author website—even if you're not published yet What to put on your website if you're not published yet Why hosting a blog can be useful to you as a writer Combining your interviews and reviews with research on the industry The benefit of interviewing authors Ideas for for posting on social media as a pre-published creator What to put on your About Me page Where to put your Press Kit on your website Should your bio be written in first person or third person? Do you need a short bio or a long bio? What kind of photos to have in your press kit How to name your photos The importance of having downloadable book cover images What someone needs from you when they book you for an event Where to put your social media links Where to find a great example of a press kit What a "sell sheet" is and why you might need one A tool to connect with bookstores and schools A few options for making your press kit accessible

Links mentioned in this episode:

Lisa Stringfellow's Essentials of an Author Website - 25% off for podcast listeners Vivian Kirkfield's website Susannah Hill's website Julie's Press Kit page Picture Book Summit's Home Page (Press Kit downloadable in the footer)

If you enjoy the podcast, please like, subscribe, and review so other kidlit writers can find us!

Have questions for us or ideas for future episodes? Leave us a quick voicemail here.

Thank you for listening!

Turn real-life anecdotes into stories

Author and independent editor Emma Walton Hamilton shares the story of her latest collaboration with her mother, Julie Andrews. Emma not only chats about the inspiration for SHY, but also how they tweaked the true story of a real-life dog who liked to sing into to a fun, kid-friendly picture book.

Here's what you'll discover in this episode:

How to take real-life events and turn them into picture books The quirks of the real dog behind the inspiration The connection to her current dog The thread of true story in most of her picture books How pushing the envelope can take the story to the next level Jane Yolen's advice to not let the truth get in the way of a good story Why it's hard to let go of our real-life experiences when writing a story Encouraging kids to have the courage to shine Starting at the ending and working backward in the story Adding kids or child-like characters to make the story kid-friendly How two people can be inspired by the same thing and come up with two very different stories What's next for Emma

Links mentioned in this episode:

Picture Book Summit 2026! Emma is presenting at this year's event. Get $100 when you register before 8/27/26. The Complete Picture Book Submissions System created by Emma and Julie to help you create a submission package that will land you a book deal. Get the free training here.

Books* mentioned in this episode:

Shy by Julie Andrews, Emma Walton Hamilton, and Eva Byrne Waiting in the Wings by Julie Andrews, Emma Walton Hamilton, and EG Keller The Enchanted Symphony by Julie Andrews, Emma Walton Hamilton, and Elly MacKay Music Plants Hope by Tonnye Fletcher and Natalia Bruno After the Fall by Dan Santat

Find these books and more in the 12 x 12 Bookshop!

If you enjoy the podcast, please like, subscribe, and review so other kidlit writers can find us!

Have questions for us or ideas for future episodes? Leave us a quick voicemail here.

Thank you for listening!

The Fun Part of Having an Agent

After their 12 x 12 webinar about establishing successful agent-client relationships, agent Rachel Orr and her clients (and 12 x 12 members) Tasha Hilderman and Suzy Levinson stayed for an after-party podcast episode to talk about the fun things about writing and working together.

Here's what you'll discover in this episode:

Unexpected inspiration Why Suzy's mantra is "Follow the fun!" Why it's important to find the writing style that fits you Thinking about what books you read that make you want to write What Rachel loves about the variety projects she reads as an agent When and if you should take trends into account when writing Evergreen themes The importance of writing what you love How Rachel leverages rejections to find out what editors really want Formulaic vs. non-formulaic One of Rachel's favorite writing exercises How Tasha makes her manuscripts less predictable How working within parameters can be freeing The What If Game How Rachel develops submission lists and how much input her clients have in the process

Links mentioned in this episode:

Picture Book Summit 2026! Get $100 when you register before 8/27/26. How to Set Up and Sustain a Successful Agent/Author Relationship Webinar with Rachel Orr, Tasha Hilderman, and Suzy Levinson - Get 25% off!

Books* mentioned in this episode:

Dinos That Drive by Suzy Levinson and Dustin Harbin Lights at Night by Tasha Hilderman and Maggie Zeng Mini Golf Fun! by Tasha Hilderman and Kaly Quarles Gorilla Vanilla by Tasha Hilderman (coming in 2027!) Animals in Pants by Suzy Levinson, Kevin Howdeshell, and Kristen Howdeshell

Find these books and more in the 12 x 12 Bookshop!

If you enjoy the podcast, please like, subscribe, and review so other kidlit writers can find us!

Have questions for us or ideas for future episodes? Leave us a quick voicemail here.

Thank you for listening!

The ins and outs of author visits

As a past 12 x 12 webinar speaker, Alyssa Reynoso-Morris brought us Getting the Gig! A jam-packed webinar with ideas and tools to use to land more speaking gigs and supplement your author income.

In today's podcast, we talk about how to get the most bang for your buck as you begin visiting schools and book speaking gigs, funny author visit stories, and more!

Here's what you'll discover in this episode:

Where to focus your efforts if you're just starting author visits Which events pay the author more Which events sell the most books Alyssa's process for reaching out to bookstores, schools, and conferences How many inquiries she sends per week and how many turn into bookings How many visits she gets from referrals at other events Her experience working with a booking agent How her experience learning to read late in elementary school influences how she writes for kids today How she keeps the read-aloud aspect in mind as she writes Funny stories from school visits Why authors have to diversify their income streams

Links mentioned in this episode:

25% off Alyssa's webinar: Getting the Gig Alyssa's resources for writers

Books* mentioned in this episode:

Bold, Brilliant, and Latine by Alyssa Reynoso-Morris and Sol Cotti Gloriana, Presente: A First Day of School Story by Alyssa Reynoso-Morris and Doris M Rodríguez-Graber Plátanos Are Love by Alyssa Reynoso-Morris and Mariyah Rahman The Bronx Is My Home by Alyssa Reynoso-Morris and Kim Holt Pieces of Home by Alyssa Reynoso-Morris (debuting April 2027) The Last Cuentista by Donna Barba Higuera Kindred by Octavia Butler Watercress by Andrea Wang and Jason Chin

Find these books and more in the 12 x 12 Bookshop!

If you enjoy the podcast, please like, subscribe, and review so other kidlit writers can find us!

Have questions for us or ideas for future episodes? Leave us a quick voicemail here.

Thank you for listening!

Do you change your writing or does your writing change you?

In early 2026, Daria Peoples gave a webinar about Rainbow Arcs and plotting the internal and external arcs of your story in a way that can save you time in the drafting process and help you see holes in works-in-progress. In this episode, we talk to Daria directly after the presentation, and we dig a little deeper into some of the aspects of the webinar and give each other a little therapy along the way.

Here's what you'll discover in this episode:

The power of writing—whether you get published or not Writing and illustrating without an audience Creating no matter the outcome How your writing impacts you What happens when a book resonates with your readers The responsibility of writing for children How kids get to the heart of the matter Self-care when writing and illustrating tough topics Making changes based on Daria's plot arc for internal and external emotions How other people around us can see the themes of our work before we do What's next for Daria

Links mentioned in this episode:

25% off Daria's webinar: Rainbow Arcs

Books* mentioned in this episode:

This Is It by Daria Peoples Hello, Mister Blue by Daria Peoples America, My Love, America, My Heart by Daria Peoples My Love for You is the Sun by Julie Hedlund and Susan Eaddy I Got Next by Daria Peoples

Find these books and more in the 12 x 12 Bookshop!

If you enjoy the podcast, please like, subscribe, and review so other kidlit writers can find us!

Have questions for us or ideas for future episodes? Leave us a quick voicemail here.

Thank you for listening!

What you need to know about AI

In 2025, Chiara Colombi gave our most asked-about webinar called "What Kidlit Creators Need to Know About AI."

Chiara works with an AI data privacy firm and was able to break down what we as creatives need to know about this technology to use it wisely and to protect ourselves and our work.

Now, a year later, Chiara returns to give us an update about AI and children's publishing—and it's not all bad news!

Here's what you'll discover in this episode:

Why Chiara is the perfect person to give us insight into AI from a creator's perspective How her writing led her to work in AI Why you should learn about how AI works—even if you never use it What's going on with the Anthropic AI lawsuit How AI is affecting different industries Why there are reasons for hope Publishers want human-created text and art The importance of human translators Discussions about AI at Bologna Market analysis by AI - Yes or no? Using AI in your marketing Publishing contracts and AI AI Detection Tools Used by Publishers

Links mentioned in this episode:

25% off Chiara's webinar: What Kidlit Creators Should Know About AI AI and Publishing: FAQ for Writers from Jane Friedman 023: Julie in Bologna Authors Guild AI Model Contract Clauses

Books* mentioned in this episode:

Rocket Ship, Solo Trip by Chiara Colombi and Scott Magoon Rocket Beams, Lunar Dreams by Chiara Colombi and Scott Magoon Your Name is a Song by Jamilah Thompkins-Bigelow and Luisa Uribe

Find these books and more in the 12 x 12 Bookshop!

If you enjoy the podcast, please like, subscribe, and review so other kidlit writers can find us!

Have questions for us or ideas for future episodes? Leave us a quick voicemail here.

Thank you for listening!

You've got a friend in me!

In this episode, Kelli Panique chats with Kari Lavelle (pronounced CAR-EE) and Lindsay Leslie. Their writing friendship began when they were both just starting to write picture books, bloomed as they critiqued each other's work, and continues to blossom as they do author visits together! Could having an author visit partner be the key to your success? Find out how this partnership works in today's episode.

Here's what you'll discover in this episode:

How they met and when they started writing The role their friendship played when times were tough The number one recommendation they give aspiring writers Why writing friendships are important outside of critique groups The challenge of debuting books and author visits during the pandemic What's a booking agent and how they work Determining the value of your author visit and what to offer Why they started doing author visits together How their visits work even though one writes fiction and the other writes nonfiction How they involve the kids in their presentations What has evolved in their visits over the years The difference between presenting to younger grades versus older grades The surprising preferences of younger readers versus older readers Their tips for reigning in an excited audience Funny things that happened during author visits Their advice for writers just starting with author visits

Links mentioned in this episode:

How Now Booking Lindsay Leslie on Instagram and Bluesky Find Kari Lavelle on Instagram and Bluesky

Books* mentioned in this episode:

Gus Hearts the Bus by Lindsay Leslie and Geeta Ladi So You Want to Build a Library by Lindsay Leslie and Aviel Basil Dusk Explorers by Lindsay Leslie and Ellen Rooney Butt or Face by Kari Lavelle We Move the World by Kari Lavelle and Nabi H. Ali Ode to Grapefruit: How James Earl Jones Found His Voice by Kari Lavelle and Bryan Collier

Find these books and more in the 12 x 12 Bookshop!

If you enjoy the podcast, please like, subscribe, and review so other kidlit writers can find us!

Have questions for us or ideas for future episodes? Leave us a quick voicemail here.

Thank you for listening!

Hook, hook, does your book have enough hooks?

In this episode, Julie gives an overview of picture book hooks and why they are so important in today's children's publishing market.

Here's what you'll discover in this episode:

The importance of having multiple hooks in your picture book manuscript The influence of the publishing market on hooks The definition of hooks in picture books Why agents and editors are looking for multiple hooks or entry points The difference between hooks and layers Are agents and editors only looking for high concept books? Kid-facing hooks vs. Adult-facing hooks Different categories of hooks in picture books Julie's Hook, Line, or Stinker workshop at Picture Book Summit 2026

Links mentioned in this episode:

Get the 12 x 12 Guide to Picture Book Hooks HERE. Get the 12 x 12 Guide to Layers in Picture Books HERE. Join Julie at the online Picture Book Summit 2026 HERE.

Books mentioned in this episode:

Stalagmite and Stalactite by Drew Breckmeyer Dalmartian by Lucy Ruth Cummins

Find these books and more in the 12 x 12 Bookshop!

If you enjoy the podcast, please like, subscribe, and review so other kidlit writers can find us!

Have questions for us or ideas for future episodes? Leave us a quick voicemail here.

Thank you for listening!

Author Debbie Davey won a spot on the podcast by donating to Publishing for Minnesota! (Thank you, Debbie!)

In this episode, Debbie shares her experience with self-publishing two picture books.

Here's what you'll discover in this episode:

Why she chose to self-publish What company she used to self-publish How she sold her books Where she found her illustrator Whether or not it's okay to use AI What steps she took to find her writing voice How she funded her books The influence her dad had on her writing How she recouped her investment on her first book What she wants kids to get out of her books Reasons to self-publish vs. pursuing traditional publishing Debbie's advice to writers thinking of self-publishing What she did to get her books in bookstores and libraries How distribution works Her willingness to research and keep learning throughout the publishing process The importance of taking courses Getting feedback and revising The importance of putting the best work out there—whether self-publishing or traditionally publishing Her work in teaching English at Outschool

Books mentioned in this episode:

A Walk in Town by Debbie Davey and illustrated by Diana Florescu The Holiday Stroll by Debbie Davey and illustrated by Diana Florescu Grandpa Green written and illustrated by Lane Smith

Find these books and more in the 12 x 12 Bookshop!

If you enjoy the podcast, please like, subscribe, and review so other kidlit writers can find us!

Have questions for us or ideas for future episodes? Leave us a quick voicemail here.

Thank you for listening!

The Flintstones meet the Jetsons!

It's our first-ever crossover episode! The 12 x 12 Picture Book Podcast is just one of the hats that Julie Hedlund and Kelli Panique wear. A couple other hats they wear are Picture Book Summit and the Picture Book Summit Podcast. Picture Book Summit is an annual online writing conference designed specifically for picture book writers and illustrators. Everything takes place online on October 3, 2026. Early Bird Registration is open through August 27, 2026.

Today, we've invited their fellow PBSummit team members, Emma Walton Hamilton and Katie Davis, to the podcast to talk about our Featured Agent and Featured Editor panels.

Here's what you'll discover in this episode:

What it's like to get these agents and editors together in one (Zoom) room Tips we've learned from critique panels Things that have surprised us in previous agent and editor panels How use the information in these panels to decipher what's going on in the current picture book market What a slush pile is What an "above-the-slush-pile" opportunity is and how to get one at Picture Book Summit Why you should care about these panels even if you already have an agent How these panels can inform what project you work on next Whether agents and editors like art notes How hearing agents and editors speak helps with your market research The importance of researching agents and editors How attendees influence what we ask our panel members The advantage of having 4 months of Summit replays Exactly how the submission opportunities work in Picture Book Summit What happens if you don't need submission opportunities right now Whether you should send one manuscript to all the editors and agents Listen to the Picture Book Summit Podcast about the 2026 Superstar Speakers here. Listen to the Picture Book Summit Podcast about the 2026 Workshops here.

Picture Book Summit 2026 takes place online on October 3, 2026. Get your ticket to Picture Book Summit 2026 today! Save $100 with Early Bird Pricing by 8/27/26. Click here!

If you enjoy the podcast, please like, subscribe, and review so other kidlit writers can find us!

Have questions for us or ideas for future episodes? Leave us a quick voicemail here.

Thank you for listening!

This past April, Julie went to Italy (her favorite country) to attend The Bologna Children's Book Fair for the first time in five years. It was fantastico, stupendo, bellissima! While in the land of la dolce vita, Julie roamed the Fair with microphones and talked to other kidlit creators on the scene. Have you ever wondered whether you should attend Bologna? Take a listen and find out! So much inspiration in this episode. Listen in to discover:

What the Bologna Book Fair is (and isn't) Why Julie has attended 4 times How to approach the Fair if you go Opportunities at the Fair for illustrators and authors Interview with Sarah Baker, Executive Director of SCBWI SCBWI's presence and activities at the Fair Interview with Sara Willia, illustrator and 12 x 12 Podcast Producer Plus Sara turns the tables on Julie and asks her some questions Interview with 12 x 12 member and SCBWI volunteer Julie Blaho SCBWI's brand new Italian chapter Interview with author/illustrator Selina Alko Interview with author/illustrator Vesper Stamper Interview with comics/graphic novel agent Janna Morishima Books mentioned in this episode: Song After Song: The Musical Life of Julie Andrews, by Julie Hedlund and Ilaria Urbinati My Love For You is the Sun, by Julie Hedlund and Susan Eaddy Becca and Bubbe's Bucket List, by Laura Gehl and Sarah Baker The Ghost Train, by Ross MacKay and Sara Willia Otherwise Known as Judy The Great, by Selina Alko A Knot is Not a Tangle, by Daniel Nayeri and Vesper Stamper Pinocchio, by Carlo Collodi

Other things to check out:

Bologna Children's Book Fair website Kids Comics Unite SCBWI Italy Julie's Video from her 2nd Bologna Trip

Grab these books and more from the 12 x 12 Bookshop.org Podcast list here.

And check out our full list of books by 12 x 12 ANHPI members here.

If you enjoy the podcast, please like, subscribe, and review so other kidlit writers can find us!

Have questions for us or ideas for future episodes? Leave us a quick voicemail here.

Not a member of 12 x 12 yet? Join the wait list and get a free gift. Join here.

Thank you for listening!

#kidlit #bolognabookfair #author #illustration

Author and Independent Book Publishers Association (IBPA) Chief Content Officer Lee Wind has always advocated for books that help marginalized kids and teens, especially those on the LGBTQIA+ spectrum, navigate life. In this episode, he talks about his concerns, recently shared in a School Library Journal article, about the chilling effect the current book banning and censorship campaigns are having on queer stories. Listen in to discover:

How book banning conversations adopt the language of our opressors Why many teachers and librarians are afraid to bring in diverse books The national book banning bill that is making its way through Congress right now What is happening to school and library sales and how that impacts publishing decisions Finding your champions and keeping hope alive How large vs. smaller publishers promote books differently "Offering" books vs. submitting them How to be an ally How to get books into the hands of kids who need them Lee's upcoming books Overview of We Are Stronger Than Censorship (and swag!) Why writing and reading picture books is magical Celebrating Pride Month Books mentioned in this episode: Banana Menorah by Lee Wind and Karl West If You Make a Call on a Banana Phone by Gideon Sterer and Emily Hughes Red and Green and Blue and White by Lee Wind and Paul O. Zelinsky Like That Eleanor: The Amazing Power of Being an Ally by Lee Wind and Kelly Mangan No Way, They Were Gay? by Lee Wind Love Of The Half-Eaten Peach by Lee Wind and Jieting Chan Song After Song: The Musical Life of Julie Andrews by Julie Hedlund and Ilaria Urbinati And Tango Makes Three by Justin Richardson & Peter Parnell and Henry Cole

Grab these books and more from the 12 x 12 Bookshop.org Podcast list here.

If you enjoy the podcast, please like, subscribe, and review so other kidlit writers can find us! Thank you for listening!

#kidlit #booktok #author #queerbooksforkids #lgbtqia+books #diversebooks #writingtips #ya #mg #picturebooks #pridemonth

Meet Carren Jao, one of the passionate co-leaders of the 12 x 12 Asian Native Hawaiian Pacific Islander (ANHPI) Affinity Group. Ellen Lee was unable to join us for this conversation, but please visit her website, too. Together, these women have created a warm, welcoming, educational "community within the community" in 12 x 12. Not surprisingly, many incredible picture books have been published by members of this group. Listen in to discover:

The establishment and purpose of the 12 x 12 Affinity Groups The evolution of the ANHPI Affinity group name and why it's important Carren's background in the arts and journalism, and how that connects to picture book writing How Carren and Ellen came to offer Monthly Mixers to the ANHPI Affinity Group Learning from members about switching agents mid-career Tips on executing "scrappy" book promotion ideas members have shared Carren's upcoming debut picture book, The Shape of Love Books Carren and Julie love for AANHPI month--and every month! Fighting against book bans as a community and as individuals What's next for Carren Books mentioned in this episode: The Shape of Love, by Carren Jao and Corinne Caro When A Rhino Has to Wait, by Dazzle Ng and Estrela Lourenço Take a Picture of Me, James Van Der Zee, by Andrea J. Loney and Keith Mallett A Morning With Grandpa, by Sylvia Liu and Christina Forshay Sparkles For Sunny, by Sylvia Chen and Thai My Phuong Bing's Cherries, by Julia Kuo and Livia Blackburne Unbreakable, by Minori Tonai and Jolene Gutiérrez, and Chris Sasaki Barbed Wire Between Us, by Mia Wenjen and Violete Encarnación Amah Faraway, by Margaret Chiu Greanias and Tracy Subisak Shell Song, by Sharon Fujimoto-Johnson The Legend of Ban-Dal, by Jessica Yoon and Seo Kim Sun, Moon, and Star, by Nancy So Miller The Moon Rabbit, by Eva Wong Nava and Jason Chuang Some of Us: A Story of Citizenship and The United States, by Rajani LaRocca and Huy Vuon Lee The Power of Your Name, by Jyoti Rajan Gopal and Olivia Sua Finding Papa, by Angela Pham Krans and Thi Bui Another Word for Neighbor, by Angela Pham Krans and Thai My Phuong At The Window, by Hope Lim and Qin Leng The First Girl On Stage, by Shruthi Rao and Devika Joglekar When Science Stood Still: How S. Chandrasekhar Predicted the Existence of Black Holes, by Shruthi Rao and Srinidhi Srinivasan Gwei The Hungry Ghost, by Emmeline Lee and Basia Tran

Grab these books and more from the 12 x 12 Bookshop.org Podcast list here.

And check out our full list of books by 12 x 12 ANHPI members here.

If you enjoy the podcast, please like, subscribe, and review so other kidlit writers can find us!

Not a member of 12 x 12 yet? Join the wait list and get a free gift. Join here.

Thank you for listening!

#kidlit #booktok #author #AANHPImonth

Award-winning children's author Heidi E.Y. Stemple joins co-hosts Julie and Kelli to celebrate her latest picture book releases and to talk about why backmatter is so important for picture books (and when it's not). Listen in to discover:

How Heidi got to 50 published books (and counting) The pressure and privilege of being Jane Yolen's daughter Why Heidi got a tattoo of her mother's signature on her right wrist The definition of picture book backmatter (and frontmatter, and marginalia) Why backmatter should provide an entry back into the book or an exit out The do's and don'ts of crafting backmatter When additional information should go on your website or in a teacher's guide Examples of backmatter from several of Heidi and her mom's books How to decide if your book needs backmatter Why you want your backmatter to match the target age, tone, and style of your book Whether you should write the backmatter upfront or simply give possible ideas

Books mentioned in this episode:

Lydia Loves Bugs: A Children's Book About Insects by Heidi E.Y. Stemple and Yulia Pankratova The Poetry of Car Mechanics by Heidi E.Y. Stemple Zoey Zoombeck, Superhero by Heidi E.Y. Stemple and Alexandra Colombo Janie Writes a Play: Jane Yolen's First Great Story by Heidi E.Y. Stemple and Madelyn Goodnight She Sells Seashells: Mary Anning, an Unlikely Paleontologist by Heidi E.Y. Stemple and Emily Paik You Nest Here With Me by Jane Yolen & Heidi E.Y. Stemple and Melissa Sweet Greyling by Jane Yolen and David Ray E. Norm Moose by Heidi E.Y. Stemple and Annie Gregoire A Kite for Moon by Jane Yolen & Heidi E.Y. Stemple and Matt Phelan How To Get Your Octopus to School by Becky Scharnhorst and Jaclyn Sinquette Over, Bear! Under, Where? by Julie Hedlund and Michael Slack Yuck, You Suck! Poems About Animals That Sip, Slurp, Suck by Jane Yolen & Heidi E.Y. Stemple and Eugenia Nobati Eek, You Reek! Poems About Animals That Stink, Stank, Stunk by Jane Yolen & Heidi E.Y. Stemple and Eugenia Nobati La Princesa and The Pea by Susan Middleton Elya and Juana Martinez Neal Butt or Face by Kari Lavelle

Grab these books and more from the 12 x 12 Bookshop.org Podcast list here.

Listeners who want more from Heidi on Backmatter can get 25% off her webinar, Backmatter Matters at 12x12challenge.com/heidi.

If you enjoy the podcast, please like, subscribe, and review so other kidlit writers can find us!

Thank you for listening!

Meet stand-up comedian, actress, TV writer, audiobook narrator, and picture book author Jorjeana Marie, here on the 12 x 12 Picture Book Writing Podcast to discuss using improv techniques to write humorous, character-driven picture books. Jorjeana shares her background and why she's drawn to picture books through character, heart, and humor, then outlines key improv "rules" and games she applies to writing. She talks about her inspiration for writing the book, IMPROV FOR WRITERS, which Julie tested out before this episode. Listen in to discover:

What draws someone as accomplished as Jorjeana Marie to 12 x 12 Jorjeana's dedication to writing picture books Why picture books (and all books) are critical for children An overview of the "rules" of Improv and how they can be adapted for writing The benefit of the "Yes, and" game in both improv and writing Why listening and staying present is a crucial piece of the writing puzzle The importance of committing to whatever you are creating Julie's experience playing some of the improv games from the book The difference between writing prompts and improv games How to use improv games to write funny picture books Why the best comedy (and humorous picture books) is layered Jorjeana demonstrating improv techniques live The connection between poetry and improv Books mentioned in this episode: Improv for Writers: 10 Secrets to Help Novelists and Screenwriters Bypass Writer's Block and Generate Infinite Ideas by Jorjeana Marie Over, Bear! Under, Where? by Julie Hedlund and Michael Slack

Grab these books and more from the 12 x 12 Bookshop.org Podcast list here.

Julie is offering listeners 25% off her webinar, Cooking Up Funny Picture Books.

If you enjoy the podcast, please like, subscribe, and review so other kidlit writers can find us! Thank you for listening!

#kidlit #booktok #author #writingtipsforbeginners #writingtips #ya #mg #picturebooks #improv #humor

G'day, Mates!

Our fearless leader, Julie Hedlund, recently returned from a month down under in Australia. Of course, there were stunning beaches and beautiful sights to see, but what we really want the tea on are the bookshops, libraries, and other fun literary adventures! (Seriously!) Julie discovered a vibrant book scene in Sydney, and she's ready to dish.

Listen in to discover:

What took Julie to Australia Who she met while she was there Why we say you're never alone as a 12 x 12 member How submissions to Australian publishers work The differences she noticed between the Australian and the North American kidlit markets Meeting the local SCBWI RA The Library of New South Wales Literary icon Pamela Allen How travel inspires creativity Picture book topics and trends in Australia The interactive Pamela Allen museum exhibit A read-aloud of Who Sank the Boat? by Pamela Allen The literary field trip to a winery-restaurant-bookstore Her visit to P.L. Travers' house and the Mary Poppins statue Which American authors' books she saw in Australian bookstores

Books by authors mentioned in this episode*:

Who Sank the Boat? by Pamela Allen The Best Rangoli Ever by Sheena Garg Gapagap by Sheena Garg Boy in the Big Blue Glasses by Susanne Gervay and Marjorie Crosby-Fairall Ships in the Field by Susanne Gervay and Anna Pignataro Time for Bed by Mem Fox and Jane Dyer Possum Magic by Mem Fox and Julie Vivas Ten Little Fingers and Ten Little Toes by Mem Fox and Helen Oxenbury Whoever You Are by Mem Fox and Leslie Staub I'm an Immigrant Too! by Mem Fox and Ronojoy Ghosh The Future Book by Mac Barnett and Shawn Harris

Special thanks to Karen Henricks, Susanne Gervay, Sheena Garg, and Karen Robertson!

If you enjoy the podcast, please like, subscribe, and review so other kidlit writers can find us!

Thank you for listening!

Inspired by Joy in Storytelling

Newbery Award-Winning Rajani LaRocca shares personal insights into her writing, including when she started writing, when she came back to it, what she loves about writing in different genres, and how joy fuels her creative endeavors.

Listen in to discover:

The original spark for her picture book SOME OF US The importance of sharing our citizenship stories. Surprising things she learned while writing this book. How kids respond to SOME OF US. Her inspiration for A VACCINE IS LIKE A MEMORY. How she balances her work as a physician with her work as an author. How being in community inspired her to write The struggle to write when times are tough The gift of giving your manuscripts time to sit If Rajani has a favorite among her books The different genres she has written What children say to her about her books

Books mentioned in this episode*:

Some of Us by Rajani LaRocca and Huy Voun Lee A Vaccine is Like a Memory by Rajani LaRocca and Kathleen Marcottte Seven Golden Rings by Rajani LaRocca and Archana Sreenivasan Where Three Oceans Meet by Rajani LaRocca and Archana Sreenivasan Summer is for Cousins by Rajani LaRocca and Abhi Alwar Fall is for Beginnings by Rajani LaRocca and Abhi Alwar Your One and Only Heart by Rajani LaRocca and Lauren Paige Conrad Red, White, and Whole by Rajani LaRocca Midsummer's Mayhem by Rajani LaRocca Random Body Parts: Gross Anatomy Riddles in Verse by Leslie Bulion and Mike Lowery We Are the Light by Rajani LaRocca and Sayan Mukherjee Vibhi and the Voice by Rajani LaRocca and Cindy Derby Such Great Heights by Rajani LaRocca

Get special deals on Rajani's past 12 x 12 webinars:

Rock Your Revision for 25% off Rhyming vs. Lyrical: When and How (and Why) to Use Each for 25% off Get them both in a special bundle for 40% off!

If you enjoy the podcast, please like, subscribe, and review so other kidlit writers can find us!

Thank you for listening!

Keila V. Dawson has partnered with fellow creatives Jeanette Bradley and Lindsay Metcalf to tell the stories of young activists through the power of poetry. No Voice Too Small, No World Too Big, and No Brain The Same feature kids and teens making a difference for our planet. Keila and her team picked a different poet to celebrate this extraordinary individuals and the results are incredibly moving. (And we learned so many new things!)

A poem may seem like a quiet way to express oneself, but in the hands of these talented writers, the poems in this series of books speak up in ways you won't forget any time soon.

Listen in to discover:

Where the original idea for these poetry anthologies came from The influence her work as an educator, activist, and genealogist had on this project How they sold the first book on proposal The process used for matching poets to their subjects in each book How they ended up with different types of poems in each book The design of each page and it houses the poem, a sidebar of more biographical information, and a quote from each subject The types of backmatter included—from a glossary to types of poems to author bios Additional facts the illustrations provide How the sequels came to be What they hope kids get out of these books A peek at a poem in the newest book in the series How to be included in a poem anthology Poetry resources Poetry practice How Keila came to write a poem for the second book The difference between a poem and a picture book

Books mentioned in this episode*:

No Voice Too Small edited by Lindsay H. Metcalf, Keila V. Dawson, and Jeanette Bradley No World Too Big edited by Lindsay H. Metcalf, Keila V. Dawson, and Jeanette Bradley No Brain The Same edited by Lindsay H. Metcalf, Keila V. Dawson, and Jeanette Bradley King Cake Baby by Keila V. Dawson and Vernon Smith Yumbo Gumbo by Keila V. Dawson and Katie Crumpton Opening the Road by Keila V. Dawson and Alleanna Harris Coming in the future: How We Got Here: Conversation with United States History and Annbelle's Beignet Cafe, a sequel to Yumbo Gumbo The Rabbit Listened by Cori Doerrfeld

Get 25% off Janet Wong's Poetry in Picture Books webinar HERE.

If you enjoy the podcast, please like, subscribe, and review so other kidlit writers can find us!

Thank you for listening!

Not a member of 12 x 12 yet? Join the wait list and get a free gift. Join here.

*At no additional cost to you, 12 x 12 may earn a commission on books published through the links in this post. (Links go to Bookshop.org when available.)

Write what you love

Michelle Cusolito's love for writing nonfiction picture books is palpable and, we dare say, contagious. In this episode, she generously shares her process, where her ideas have come from, and how she follows the muse—even when she's on deadline for a different project.

No matter what you write, Michelle's interview is a good reminder to write what you love... because that's when the passion shines through.

Listen in to discover:

Why Michelle is drawn to writing about the ocean How she came to write a latest picture book about trees (that aren't in the ocean!) The information she gives to her illustrators (and what she leaves out) How she researches her books The importance of experiencing things firsthand when she's writing about a topic Her recommendations to writers who can't travel to do in-person research Where science is happening (Hint: it might be closer than you think!) How she organizes her research Her love of notebooks and working analog-style Nonfiction author Beth Anderson The beauty of spare text How In the World of Whales was inspired by a real-life event What made her stop everything to write the first draft How the 12 x 12 Creativity Book Group works How to handle critiques How she was able to go on a weeks-long expedition with Woods Hole Oceanographic Institute to do research for her books Why it's important to make genuine connections as a writer

Books mentioned in this episode*:

In the World of Whales by Michelle Cusolito and Jessica Lanan Flying Deep by Michelle Cusolito and Nicole Wong Diving Deep by Michelle Cusolito and Nicole Wong A Window into the Ocean Twilight Zone by Michelle Cusolito Jellyfish Scientist by Michelle Cusolito and Ellen Rooney Rooted in Wonder by Michelle Cusolito and Mayra Wright Song After Song: The Musical Life of Julie Andrews by Julie Hedlund and Ilaria Urbinati Reimagining Your Nonfiction Picture Book by Kirsten W. Larson Giant Squid by Candace Fleming and Eric Rohmann

Get 25% off Michelle Cusolito's Rigorous Research webinar (co-presented with Charlesbridge editor Karen Boss) here: www.12x12challenge.com/michelle

Please note: There is a change in the sound level about halfway through the podcast. We've adjusted it as much as we can. We apologize for any inconvenience while listening.

If you enjoy the podcast, please like, subscribe, and review so other kidlit writers can find us!

Thank you for listening!

Where Picture Book Biographies and Poetry Come Together

The National Poetry Month celebration continues! 12 x 12 charter member, poet, and author Lisa Rogers shares how poetry comes into play when writing picture books—even picture book biographies.

In this episode, you'll discover:

What it's like to be a poet and write a picture book about a poet How she finds the emotional throughline in her stories Why she's drawn to writing about creative people The impact of writing her John Cage book in second person Why she writes picture book biographies Why she didn't give up writing picture books The steps she took to stay committed to the writing craft How she determines the stories she's meant to write Why reading and writing poetry helps with writing picture books How word choice influences her writing choices The importance of creating mental images in your stories How sounds influence her word choice

Books mentioned in this episode*:

16 Words: William Carlos Williams and "The Red Wheelbarrow" by Lisa Rogers and Chuck Groenink Beautiful Noise: The Music of John Cage by Lisa Rogers and Il Sung Na Joan Mitchell Paints a Symphony by Lisa Rogers and Stacy Innerst Woody's Words: Woodrow Wilson Rawls and Where the Red Fern Grows by Lisa Rogers and Susan Reagan Hound Won't Go by Lisa Rogers and Meg Ishihara All the Small Poems and Fourteen More by Valerie Worth and Natalie Babbitt Gnomes and Ungnomes: Poems of Hidden Creatures Ode to Grapefruit: How James Earl Jones Found His Voice by Kari Lavelle and Bryan Collier

Get the 12 x 12 Poetry Playbook for Picture Book Writers HERE: https://12x12challenge.com/poetryplaybook

If you enjoy the podcast, please like, subscribe, and review so other kidlit writers can find us!

Thank you for listening!

Let's celebrate poetry!

Welcome to National Poetry Month! We begin the celebration with one of our favorite poets AND poetry teachers, author Renee LaTulippe. Renee shares why she loves poetry and how, over her career, she's worked to help others understand and use poetry techniques in their own work.

In this episode, you'll discover:

How Renee helped set our 12 x 12 poetry elves up for success Why Renee is so passionate about poetry What is so appealing about free verse How to make poetry exciting for anyone Enjoying poems vs. determining their symbolism What should your readers take away from your work What she loves about the craft of writing What she sets out to do (and not do) with her poetry The definition of "common measure" How she went from writing poetry anthologies to a poetry picture book to a poetry graphic novel Ways Limelight: Curtain Up on Poetry Comics could be used in Drama and English classes. The difference between a poem, an anthology of poetry in picture book form, and a poem picture book What she's working on now

Renee LaTulippe's books*:

Crab Ballet by Renee LaTulippe and Cécile Metzger Limelight: Curtain Up on Poetry Comics by Renee LaTulippe and Chuck Gonzales

Whether you adore poetry or you're afraid of it, you're bound to be inspired by this episode.

Resources mentioned in this episode:

Renee LaTulippe's Writing Lyrical and Rhyming Picture Books Bundle is now available for 25% off here Renee's Lyrical Language Lab here Renee's Story Lark Road Curriculum here Get the free poetry download here.

If you enjoy the podcast, please like, subscribe, and review so other kidlit writers can find us!

Thank you for listening!

What does a bookseller want book creators to know?

Welcome to our first After-Party! After-parties will be a semi-regular feature on the 12 x 12 Picture Book Podcast, where we'll take some time after a 12 x 12 webinar to dive a little deeper into something the speaker talked about or maybe ask a few questions we didn't get to during the live webinar.

Our first after-party guest is author-illustrator and bookseller Julie Rowan-Zoch. Her recent webinar, "Ask a Bookseller," is available to the public now! (Podcast listeners get 25% off! Click here.)

In the webinar, Julie shared how booksellers choose books to include in their inventory, what they want book creators to know, and how you can increase your chances of booking an event—even giving us a sneak peek at their behind-the-scenes software. In this after-party, we discuss what to actually say to a bookseller when trying to book an event or pre-order campaign, and more!

In this episode, you'll discover:

How to approach a bookseller about hosting an event How pre-order campaigns work How far in advance should you try to schedule in-person events and pre-order campaigns How to set up a book event when you're traveling Dates and times to NOT schedule your events Do's and Don'ts of using social media to connect with bookstores How a little kindness can go a long way

Julie Rowan-Zoch's books*:

Debug This Book written by Omar Abed and illustrated by Julie Rowan-Zoch I'm a Hare, So There! written and illustrated by Julie Rowan-Zoch Stopping By Jungle on a Snowy Evening written by Richard T. Morris and illustrated by Julie Rowan-Zoch Louis by Tom Lichtenheld and illustrated by Julie Rowan-Zoch Not All Sheep Are Boring by Bobby Moynihan and illustrated by Julie Rowan-Zoch You're Here! (Year-by-Year Books) by Karla Oceanak and Julie Rowan-Zoch You're One! (Year-by-Year Books) by Karla Oceanak and Julie Rowan-Zoch You're Two! (Year-by-Year Books) by Karla Oceanak and Julie Rowan-Zoch

Julie Rowan-Zoch's "Ask a Bookseller" webinar is now available for 25% off here.

The bookstore Julie Rowan-Zoch talks about in this episode is Old Firehouse Books.

Not a 12 x 12 member yet? Join the newsletter to find our upcoming free events, scholarships, and sales. Click here.

If you enjoy the podcast, please like, subscribe, and review so other kidlit writers can find us!

Thank you for listening!

*At no additional cost to you, 12 x 12 may earn a commission on books published through the links in this post. (Links go to Bookshop.org when available.)

Why would a picture book author write a graphic novel?

Why not? Author (and Charter 12 x 12 member) Marcie Colleen shares how curiosity (and the willingness to say yes) led her to reach beyond picture books and into the world of chapter books—and most recently, graphic novels for young readers.

Marcie shares her journey to writing graphic novels (even though she's not an illustrator) and what she discovered about the similarities and differences between writing picture books and graphic novels.

Plus, Marcie tells us all about her new 6-week graphic novel writing course: Panel by Panel: How to Write Comics & Graphic Novels (Even If You Can't Draw!)

Listen to the podcast now as Julie and Marcie reflect on friendship, writing, comics, and so much more.

In this episode, you'll discover:

The importance of writing friends in your writing life Where a love of storytelling and curiosity can lead Why she's written all types of kidlit from picture books to chapter books to graphic novels for young readers How to sign up for Marcie's six-week graphic novel course The similarities and differences between writing picture books and graphic novels for young readers Why the graphic novel market is so rich right now Can you write a graphic novel if you can't draw? The challenges for illustrators of graphic novels Marcie's newest graphic novel (coming in 2027) How she began writing graphic novels The different ways advances and royalties work with different graphic novel publishers The difference between art notes in picture books and graphic novels Why reading is such an important tool in your writing toolbox The importance of finding your style How the 6-week graphic novel course is set up week-by-week Marcie's role as Dance Captain in the 12 x 12 community (including playlists!)

Books mentioned:

The Penguinaut by Marcie Colleen Love, Triangle by Marcie Colleen and Bob Shea Survivor Tree by Marcie Colleen and Aaron Becker The Bear's Garden by Marcie Colleen Happy Friendsgiving by Marcie Colleen and Laura Sandoval Herrera Super Happy Party Bears by Marcie Colleen Cat Ninja by Marcie Colleen, Stephanie Cooke, Steven Scott, Nick Murphy, Paul Ritchey, and Chad Thomas Kitten Ninja by Colleen AF Venable, Marcie Colleen, and Ellen Stubbings Kitten Ninja: Braver Than Ever by Colleen AF Venable, Marcie Colleen, and Ellen Stubbings Time Buddies by Matthew Cody, Colleen AF Venable, Marcie Colleen, and Chad Thomas Time Buddies: Past, Present, Hooture, Vol. 2 by Marcie Colleen, Stephanie Cooke, Nick Murphy, Paul Ritchey, and Eduardo Medeiros Go with the Flow by Karen Schneemann and Lily Williams Look On The Bright Side by Karen Schneemann and Lily Williams (the follow-up to Go with the Flow)

If you enjoy the podcast, please like, subscribe, and review so other kidlit writers can find us!

Thank you for listening!

What's the silver lining of having a broken arm?

While Julie is away, Kelli will play! Kelli is taking over the podcast today. And, just like writing, an idea starts in one place, and then life smacks you down, and you have to head in a different direction. She didn't intend to break her arm/shoulder and do an episode about it, but when life gives you lemons, make lemon drop martinis!

You'll discover:

How Kelli broke her arm (and still made her flight!) The good and bad of breaking your dominant hand Praise for lefties! The importance of learning something new How to apply this to writing (It all connects, we promise!) Ideas for changing up your writing routine The benefits of finding a new perspective The importance of finding a critique group The pros of adding a new critique partner Type-written vs. hand-written first drafts A challenge to write in a different genre The growth that comes along with changing things up

If you enjoy the podcast, please like, subscribe, and review so other kidlit writers can find us!

Thank you for listening!

In celebration of Women's History Month, Julie Hedlund interviews author Caroline Perry and they discuss their picture book biographies of two extraordinary women: Queen Elizabeth II and Julie Andrews. What led them to write about such famous people? What were the challenges of writing about a person who's still alive? What do they wish they had known when they started writing picture book bios? Find out in today's episode.

You'll discover:

What inspired their individual picture book bios What it's like to write about a living person How dogs played a role in both stories The surprising things they learned in their research How kids can relate to these stories about well-known adults The intersections of their stories Caroline's marketing efforts The pressure of writing about a person everyone knows How Caroline's book changed in the second edition after the Queen passed away Finding the emotional throughline Finding the North Star of the story Writing a story vs. writing a list of accomplishments How rejections about a real person hit different What makes you stop working on a potential bio The importance of telling women's stories that have been hidden in history

Books mentioned in this episode:

The Corgi and the Queen by Caroline L. Perry and Lydia Corry Song After Song: The Musical Life of Julie Andrews by Julie Hedlund and Ilaria Urbinati Messi's Magic: How Lionel Messi Became the G.O.A.T. by Caroline L. Perry and Luciano Lozano The Memory Cake by Caroline L. Perry and Jennifer Bricking I Am Not Happy by Caroline L. Perry and Sydney Hanson I Am Not Grumpy by Caroline L. Perry and Sydney Hanson Dandy by Ame Dyckman and Charles Santoso

Find out more about Caroline: https://carolinelperry.com/

If you enjoy the podcast, please like, subscribe, and review so other kidlit writers can find us!

Thank you for listening!

Julie Hedlund and Kelli Panique enjoy a delightful conversation with author Marzieh Abbas. Marzieh has over 40 published books for kids, from board books to middle grade. In our discussion, she elaborates on her journey from professional baker to award-winning author. Marzieh's story is so inspirational. Come be inspired to create your own successful writing journey.

You'll discover:

How 12 x 12 played a pivotal role in Marzieh becoming a multi-published author Why she chooses to publish in the US market while she lives in Pakistan How she was inspired to write for children The challenge of being a writer without access to public libraries or bookstores How she studied mentor texts to learn to write picture books Writing Muslim books for Muslim kids vs. sharing the experiences of Muslim children with a mainstream audience Why finding joy in the publishing process is crucial What it is like to write a picture book bio of a living person The importance of being in a community that gets what you're trying to do

Books mentioned in this episode:

A Dupatta Is . . . by Marzieh Abbas and Anu Chouhan Yasmeen Lari, Green Architect: The True Story of Pakistan's First Woman Architect by Marzieh Abbas and Hoda Hadadi Aarzu All Around by Marzieh Abbas The Camel Library by Marzieh Abbas and Anain Shaikh The Day The Crayons Quit by Drew Daywalt and Oliver Jeffers Malala's Magical Pencil by Malala Yousafzai and Kerascoët Henna is... by Marzieh Abbas and Anu Chouhan Awe-samosas! by Marzieh Abbas and Bhagya Madanasinghe A Ramadan to Remember by Marzieh Abbas Ali and Najwa Awatiff Radiant Ramadan by Marzieh Abbas and Anoosha Syed Friday Fun by Marzieh Abbas and Anoosha Syed Excited for Eid by Marzieh Abbas and Anoosha Syed Together We Ride by Valerie Bolling and Kaylani Juanita Together We Swim by Valerie Bolling and Kaylani Juanita Big Red Lollipop by Rukhana Khan and Sophie Blackall

Get 25% off Marzieh Abbas's webinar Mentor Text Your Way to Picture Books that POP! HERE.

Join Marzieh's Substack here.

If you enjoy the podcast, please like, subscribe, and review so other kidlit writers can find us!

Thank you for listening!

Can young readers handle difficult topics?

Author Leah Schanke thinks so. It's just one of the reasons she wrote her debut picture book, Freedom at Dawn: Robert Smalls's Voyage Out of Slavery.

In this interview, Leah Schanke and Kelli Panique celebrate Black History Month by shining a light on how she discovered the story of this book and the steps she took to bring it to life—including tips for bringing your own historical stories to life.

You'll discover:

How she came to writing picture books Why she writes history for young readers What inspired her to write Robert Smalls's story How her critique group helped this book come to life The big change that made the original story more kid-friendly What she said when editors asked her to "age up" the story Leah's research process How she stayed true to her vision of the story The context notes she includes for the editor or illustrator The pitch event that connected Leah with her publisher Tips for writers of nonfiction and historical fiction Her favorite thing that didn't make it into the book The book she wishes she wrote

Books mentioned in this episode:

Freedom at Dawn: Robert Smalls's Voyage Out of Slavery by Leah Schanke and Oboh Moses Be Free or Die: The Amazing Story of Robert Smalls' Escape from Slavery to Union Hero by Cate Lineberry Twenty-One Steps: Guarding the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier by Jeff Gottesfeld and Matt Tavares

Resources mentioned:

Picture Book Summit Podcast: The Appeal of Dark Picture Books

If you enjoy the podcast, please like, subscribe, and review so other kidlit writers can find us!

Thank you for listening!

Author Kirsten W. Larson and Julie Hedlund discuss the joy of writing nonfiction, including:

Why Kirsten loves writing nonfiction for young readers Where her writing process starts The difference between primary and secondary sources Why Kirsten loves the 12 x 12 community What it means for her to be a 12 x 12 Elf The advice she has for newer writers and seasoned writers How she pushes through until a manuscript works

Resources from Kirsten:

Kirsten's website Reimagine Insiders Group

Books mentioned in this episode:

This is How You Know by Kirsten W. Larson and Cornelia Li Song After Song: The Musical Life of Julie Andrews by Julie Hedlund and Ilaria Urbinati Reimagining Your Nonfiction Picture Book by Kirsten W. Larson Telling It True: How to Write Nonfiction Kids (and Teens) Want to Read by Kirsten W. Larson Before She Was Harriet by Lesa Cline-Ransome and James E. Ransome Winged Wonders: Solving the Monarch Migration Mystery by Meeg Pincus and Yas Imamura In the World of Whales by Michelle Cusolito and Jessica Lanan

Future projects not yet available:

Shape of Our Stories: How Books Became to Be Light of Resistance

Get 25% off Kirsten W. Larson's webinar Noodling on Nonfiction Structure HERE.

Sign up for the 12 x 12 Picture Book Writing Challenge by February 15th! Click here!

At no additional cost to you, 12 x 12 may receive a commission when a purchase is made through the links above.

We begin our Black History Month celebration with 12 x 12 member and author Valerie Bolling, who talks about reinventing her writing as a means to expand on her love of writing picture books and reach more young readers. In this interview, we get to dive into all the ways Valerie keeps growing and challenging herself to write different types of stories—and we hope she challenges you along the way.

You'll discover:

Why she writes in different picture genres and styles How important it is for kids to see themselves in our stories Why branding yourself isn't always necessary Why Valerie writes some stories in prose and some in rhyme The benefits of being a 12 x 12 member The importance of reading picture books—and not just to your kids Why she recommends joining 12 x 12 What prompts Valeire to give back to the picture book writing community The one negative about 12 x 12 The book she wishes she wrote

Books mentioned in this episode:

Let's Dance by Valerie Bolling and Maine Diaz Bing Bop Bam, Time to Jam! by Valerie Bolling and Sabrena Khadija Together We Swim by Valerie Bolling and Kaylani Juanita Together We Ride by Valerie Bolling and Kaylani Juanita I See Color: An Affirmation of our Diverse A Flea for Justice: Marian Wright Edelman Stands Up for Change by Valerie Bolling and TeMika Grooms The March for Hope by Valerie Bolling and Monica Mikai A Season for Fishin' by Pamela Courtney and Toni D. Chambers My Heart Speaks Kriolu by Stefanie Foster Brown and Keisha Morris Daddy Daughter Dance by Malcolm Newsome and Jenin Mohammed The Six Triple Eight: A True Story of the Black Woman Battalion of World War II by Tonya Abari and Lance Evans Prayer Is by Tameka Fryer Brown and Alleanna Harris Riding Magic by Kelly Starling Lyons and E.B. Lewis That Flag by Tameka Fryer Brown and Nikkolas Smith

Get a 25% discount on Valerie's webinar: How to Use Tension to Create Captivating Picture Books. Click here!

Get 25% off Tameka Fryer Brown's webinar Picture Book Range: Writing Across Styles and Topics

Sign up for the 12 x 12 Picture Book Writing Challenge by February 15th! Click here!

Are you in the submission trenches?

Co-Founders of The Complete Picture Book Submissions System Emma Walton Hamilton and Julie Hedlund share their submission expertise to help you write better query letters!

What you'll discover:

Tips for submitting your manuscript to agents or editors A template for writing your pitch The person who reads your query first (It may not be who you think it is...) The difference between a pitch and a synopsis Who should be the focus of your pitch The job of the pitch Why the voice of your pitch is so important

Get Emma and Julie's free submissions training here: picturebooksubmissions.com/free-training

Come be part of the community! Join the 12 x 12 Picture Book Writing Challenge in 2026. Register by February 15, 2026 here: 12x12challenge.com/membership/

Subscribe, like, and share the podcast with your fellow kidlit writers!

Join the fun as Julie Hedlund interviews our first-ever podcast guest: agent Adria Goetz of KT Literary!

What you'll discover:

How Adria became an agent What editors are looking for (and NOT looking for) in today's market The importance of market entry points and hooks The top 3 booksellers in the United States How to make your work stand out in a tough market Why Adria keeps coming back to 12 x 12 as a Featured Agent What it's like getting submissions in your inbox How agents view submissions with AI components Picture books Adria loves right now

Books mentioned in this episode:

The Princess and the Grain of Rice by Tina Cho and Honee Jang Millie Fleur's Poison Garden by Christy Mandin In the Groves by Andrea Cruz Floren

Come be part of the community! Join the 12 x 12 Picture Book Writing Challenge in 2026. Click here to register by February 15, 2026.

Get 25% off off Adria's 12 x 12 webinar here: https://12x12challenge.com/adria

Adria's website: https://adriagoetz.wpcomstaging.com/

Houston, we have a co-host!

Johnny Carson and Ed McMahon. Laurel and Hardy. Thelma and Louise. Life is more fun with a partner—and work is certainly easier with someone who has your back. And no one has Julie's back like her co-host Kelli Panique.

What you'll discover in this episode:

How Julie and Kelli started working together What they each bring to the partnership Why community is so important to them Kelli's favorite and least favorite things about working in 12 x 12 Little-known facts about Kelli

Join the 12 x 12 Picture Book Writing Challenge in 2026. Click here to register by February 15, 2026.

Subscribe and review if you like the podcast! Future episodes will include author and illustrator interviews, conversations with agents and editors, and discussions on the craft of writing picture books and getting published.

Thanks for listening!

Welcome to the 12 x 12 Picture Book Podcast!

Host Julie Hedlund, Founder of the 12 x 12 Picture Book Writing Challenge, introduces us to this new podcast for picture book writers and/or illustrators.

What you'll discover in this episode:

The history of the 12 x 12 Picture Book Writing Challenge When to register for the 2026 challenge 12 things Julie wished she knew when she started writing picture books

Join the 12 x 12 Picture Book Writing Challenge in 2026. Click here to register by February 15, 2026.

Subscribe and join us for the new endeavor! Future episodes will include author and illustrator interviews, conversations with agents and editors, and discussions on the craft of writing picture books and getting published.

Find out more at www.12x12challenge.com.

We'll see you there!