Nonfiction Kidlit Craft Conversations

Ep. 10: Ensuring Cultural Authenticity with Carrie Tillotson and Mariana Llanos


Listen Later

Join host Kirsten Larson as she takes you behind the scenes of the delightful picture book Alpacas Here, Alpacas There with author Carrie Tillotson and authenticity reader Mariana Llanos. In this insightful episode of the Nonfiction Kidlit Craft Conversations Podcast, discover the crucial role of cultural authenticity in children's nonfiction and the collaborative process that brings diverse stories to life.

Learn about:

  • What authenticity readers do and why they're essential for culturally accurate children's books
  • How alpacas are viewed differently in the US versus their cultural significance in Peru
  • The research process including connecting with experts from Peru
  • The journey from first draft to book contact over a 7-year period
  • How illustration choices enhance cultural representation
  • Whether you're a children's book author, illustrator, educator, or simply love picture books, this episode offers valuable insights into creating authentic, respectful, and engaging nonfiction for young readers.

    About the Book

    Alpacas Here, Alpacas There is a rhyming nonfiction picture book comparing alpacas in their native Peru and in North America, beautifully illustrated by Peruvian illustrator Elisa Chavarri and published by Beach Lane Books.

    Connect with Our Guests

    • Carrie Tillotson: https://carrietillotson.com
    • Mariana Llanos: https://www.marianallanos.com/
    • Order signed copies: Annie Bloom's Books in Portland, Oregon:https://annieblooms.com/
    • About the Podcast

      The Nonfiction Kidlit Craft Conversations Podcast explores the art and business of children's nonfiction with today's leading authors and illustrators. Host Kirsten Larson, author of "Reimagining Your Nonfiction Picture Book," dives deep into research methods, writing techniques, and publishing insights.

      Subscribe to my newsletter for new episodes and to receive transcripts at https://kirstenwlarson.com!

      #ChildrensBooks #PictureBooks #KidLit #NonfictionForKids #CulturalAuthenticity #DiverseBooks #AlpacaBook #AuthorInterview #WritingForChildren #PictureBookCreation #Alpacas #PeruvianCulture #PublishingJourney #SensitivityReaders

      ...more
      View all episodesView all episodes
      Download on the App Store

      Nonfiction Kidlit Craft ConversationsBy Kirsten W. Larson

      • 5
      • 5
      • 5
      • 5
      • 5

      5

      4 ratings


      More shows like Nonfiction Kidlit Craft Conversations

      View all
      Real Time with Bill Maher by HBO Podcasts

      Real Time with Bill Maher

      16,434 Listeners

      Radiolab by WNYC Studios

      Radiolab

      43,901 Listeners

      The Daily by The New York Times

      The Daily

      111,169 Listeners

      Book Friends Forever Podcast by Alvina and Grace

      Book Friends Forever Podcast

      223 Listeners

      You May Contribute A Verse by Josh Monken and Brenna Jeanneret

      You May Contribute A Verse

      32 Listeners

      SCBWI Podcasts by SCBWI

      SCBWI Podcasts

      62 Listeners

      Home Cooking by Samin Nosrat & Hrishikesh Hirway

      Home Cooking

      4,758 Listeners

      18Forty Podcast by 18Forty

      18Forty Podcast

      643 Listeners

      Picture Book Summit Podcast by Picture Book Summit

      Picture Book Summit Podcast

      27 Listeners

      SmartLess by Jason Bateman, Sean Hayes, Will Arnett

      SmartLess

      58,036 Listeners

      New Books in Children's Literature by New Books Network

      New Books in Children's Literature

      6 Listeners

      Writers With Wrinkles by Beth McMullen and Lisa Schmid

      Writers With Wrinkles

      34 Listeners