In this special takeover episode – Kristin Darell and Zena Shapter chat about the pros and pitfalls of writing for different ages. From co-authoring a middle grade book to writing best-selling junior fiction and award-winning YA and adult novels, they discuss how they adjust their writing styles to suit the audience – and each other! What considerations and adjustments do you have to make? How do you know where your story or article fits? They also discuss the power of networking and sharing the writing journey to create the foundation of a long-lasting and successful writing career.

Books discussed by Kristin:

Taronga presents series (Penguin Kids Australia, 2024) – https://www.penguin.com.au/books/taronga-presents-poo-at-the-zoo-9781761347436

Football Fever series (Penguin Kids Australia, 2022–23) – https://www.penguin.com.au/books/football-fever-1-the-kick-off-9781761048067

Books discussed by Zena:

When Dark Roots Hung (MidnightSun, 2023) – https://midnightsunpublishing.com/shop/books/when-dark-roots-hunt/

When Dark Waters Burn (MidnightSun, 2025) – https://midnightsunpublishing.com/2025/01/when-dark-waters-burn/

Co-authored middle grade discussed:

Into Tordon (MidnightSun, 2016) – https://midnightsunpublishing.com/shop/books/into-tordon/