In this episode, Christy and Sharon delve into the art of getting character emotions on the page and explore effective techniques for showcasing characters in their unique worlds, setting character-specific rules, and crafting emotionally engaging narratives.

In this episode of Coaching KidLit, hosts Sharon Skinner and Christy Yaros dive deep into the concept of theme in KidLit writing. They discuss how to think about theme as the overarching idea of a book, touching on Cheryl Klein's concepts of experiential, emotional, and thematic points. The hosts emphasize the importance of connecting with the reader through characters' emotional journeys and how different themes can be explored at varying levels of KidLit, from picture books to young adult novels. They also cover the significance of revision and layering in developing rich, thematic content, and advise writers on planning and revising with theme in mind, using practical examples and actionable advice to help writers enhance their work.

Follow us on Instagram and Twitter: @CoachingKidLit

For more information about Sharon Skinner, visit bookcoachingbysharon.com or follow her on Instagram @sharon_skinner_author_bookcoach and Twitter @SharonSkinner56.

For more information about Christy Yaros, visit christyyaros.com or follow her on Instagram and Twitter @ChristyYaros.

In this episode of Coaching KidLit, Sharon talks Picture Books with award-winning author/illustrator and Picture Book publishing guru, Michael Hale.

From the importance of open communication and trusting collaboration between authors and illustrators to the invaluable advice for aspiring creators considering traditional vs. self-publishing, this episode is brimming with inspiration and practical tips about creating book dummies, the value of cheerleaders in your writing journey, and how to bring your best work to life.

Topics Covered:

• Concise Storytelling
• Paths to Picture Book Publishing
• Working with Illustrators
• Challenges in Collaboration
• Developing the Craft

In this episode of Coaching KidLit, Christy and Sharon dig into eleven great Writing Craft Books, why they like them, how they use them, and why you might want to check them out.

The discussions centers ways to use of craft writing books and materials when writing KidLit, including tools and approaches for character development, story structure, and effective editing.

Topics covered include:

• Editing with a plan
• Character development
• Emotional storytelling
• Respectful diverse representation
• Practical writing application
• Continuous learning and improvement
• Craft books selection and use

Follow us on Instagram and Twitter: @CoachingKidLit

For more information about Sharon Skinner, visit bookcoachingbysharon.com or follow her on Instagram @sharon_skinner_author_bookcoach and Twitter @SharonSkinner56.

For more information about Christy Yaros, visit christyyaros.com or follow her on Instagram and Twitter @ChristyYaros.

In this episode of Coaching KidLit, Christy and Sharon discuss the process of writing and publishing emotionally challenging KidLit with guest, Karen Chow. Chow, a middle-grade novelist and engineer by day, opens up about her debut novel Miracle, in which she explores tough subjects such as cancer, grief, and emotional recovery. Chow shares her experiences from college until her book’s publication, as well as insights about her creative process. She provides advice to aspiring writers, emphasizing the importance of vulnerability in writing and self-care during the process.

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Karen Chow 01:42 Discussing Karen's Debut Novel: Miracle 03:09 Exploring Tough Topics in Middle Grade Literature 03:34 The Inspiration Behind 'Miracle' 05:16 The Writing Process and Challenges 10:09 The Journey to Getting Published 21:20 The Impact of 'Miracle' on Readers 30:16 Advice for Writers Tackling Difficult Topics 33:53 Teaser for Karen's Next Project 39:15 Conclusion and Contact Information

Follow us on Instagram and X: @CoachingKidLit

For more information about Sharon Skinner, visit bookcoachingbysharon.com or follow her on Instagram @sharon_skinner_author_bookcoach and X @SharonSkinner56.

For more information about Christy Yaros, visit christyyaros.com or follow her on Instagram and X @ChristyYaros.

For more information about Karen Chow, visit her website at kchowrites.com or find her on Instagram @kchowrites.

Christy and Sharon discuss writing routines and processes for writers navigating their creative journeys, including the need for flexibility, embracing imperfection, and finding joy in the process of creating a sustainable and personalized writing routine.

Follow us on Instagram and Twitter: @CoachingKidLit

For more information about Sharon Skinner, visit bookcoachingbysharon.com or follow her on Instagram @sharon_skinner_author_bookcoach and Twitter @SharonSkinner56.

For more information about Christy Yaros, visit christyyaros.com or follow her on Instagram and Twitter @ChristyYaros.

In this special episode, Sharon takes a break while Christy nerds out with fellow Author Accelerator Certified Book Coach Sara Gentry, focusing on project management for writers. They discuss setting practical deadlines, recognizing personal workflows, and the importance of documenting progress. They also emphasize approaching the creative process with intention while being open to discovery.

02:44 Understanding the Complexity of Writing a Novel

05:44 The Importance of Project Management in Writing

09:35 Setting Realistic Goals and Managing Energy

14:47 Understanding Your Writing Process

20:24 The Role of Planning and Scheduling in Writing

28:19 The Importance of Trying Different Writing Strategies

Follow us on Instagram and Twitter: @CoachingKidLit

You can find Sharon Skinner at bookcoachingbysharon.com or connect with her on Instagram @sharon_skinner_author_bookcoach and X @SharonSkinner56.

You can find Christy Yaros at christyyaros.com or connect with her on Instagram and X @ChristyYaros.

Get set for a writing sprint with this motivating episode! Join writing coaches Sharon and Christy as they share tips to optimize writing sprints like NaNoWriMo.

Whether you're gearing up for a 30-day creative marathon or simply trying to make steady progress on your WIP, you'll gather insightful advice on planning, accountability, tracking achievements, celebrating small successes, and keeping perspective along the way.

Sharon and Christy draw from their personal experiences with writing challenges to provide an encouraging mix of practical strategies, managing expectations, and giving grace when life happens. You'll walk away inspired to start moving the needle on your writing goals.

Key topics include:

• Crafting reasonable daily word count objectives
• Leveraging accountability partners and writing communities
• Using outlines and placeholder notes to boost efficiency
• Tracking progress thoughtfully with data
• Rewards and reflections for mini-milestones
• Avoiding comparison and discouragement traps
• Planning for inevitable disruptions

Follow us on Instagram and Twitter: @CoachingKidLit

For more information about Sharon Skinner, visit bookcoachingbysharon.com or follow her on Instagram @sharon_skinner_author_bookcoach and Twitter @SharonSkinner56.

For more information about Christy Yaros, visit christyyaros.com or follow her on Instagram and Twitter@ChristyYaros.