Librarian Joel Shoemaker is the author of "Bacon Grief," and the award-winning "Silas on Sundays," an LGBTQIA+ affirming faith picture book featuring a gender, non-conforming character.

In this far-reaching and fun discussion, Joel talks about writing the stories he cares about for readers who don't always see themselves represented in books, the importance of knowing your audience, writing about faith, relationships, and gender norms, and how he embraces the "fun" side of marketing to connect with his readers.

Find more about Joel and his work at https://itsjoelshoemaker.com

Join our Simply Write community where, under the blue logo, we talk about the writing craft and crafting a writer's life at https://substack.com/@pollycampbell. Under the yellow logo, you'll find Simply Said, a Substack and podcast about living well, doing good, and being happy.

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