Revision Magic & the Art of Critique: Tips from Michelle Cusolito | Nonfiction Kidlit Craft Conversations

🎧 Nonfiction Kidlit Craft Conversations is the podcast for children's authors who want to deepen their craft, hosted by Kirsten W. Larson, award-winning nonfiction picture book author and leading educator in children's nonfiction writing. In each episode, Kirsten interviews authors, illustrators, and editors about the craft and business of nonfiction picture books and beyond.

In this episode, Kirsten speaks with Michelle Cusolito, author of two stunning new nonfiction picture books: "Jellyfish Scientist: Maude Delap and Her Mesmerizing Medusas," illustrated by Ellen Rooney and "In the World of Whales," illustrated by Sibert honoree Jessica Lanan. In this episode, Michelle helps authors by sharing her innovative approach to revision, including:

Michelle offers practical wisdom on finding fresh approaches to picture book biographies, knowing when your manuscript needs more work, and developing effective critique partnerships that truly improve your writing.

Whether you're struggling with revision or looking to level up your critique group experience, this episode provides actionable techniques from a master of the craft.

Links:

Blog post about Michelle’s magnetic poetry approach: https://www.michellecusolito.com/blog/2019/7/31/magnetic-poetry-approach-to-writingrevising

Liz Lerman’s Critical Response Process: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nFugLSJX_Nc

5 Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Critiques: https://kirstenwlarson.com/2025/05/28/five-tips-for-getting-the-most-out-of-your-critiques-inspired-by-my-convo-with-author-michelle-cusolito/

Michelle’s website: https://www.michellecusolito.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mcusolito/

BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/mcusolito.bsky.social

Eight Cousin’s Bookstore: https://www.eightcousins.com

#NonfictionPictureBookWriting #ChildrensBookCraftPodcast #WritingForYoungReaders #STEMStorytellingForKids #ResearchTipsForChildrensAuthors #PictureBookStructureAndRevision #InterviewsWithKidlitCreators #RevisionTechniques #PictureBookBiography #NonfictionWritingCraft

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:

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

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

Let's Fly: How Barrington Irving's Record-Breaking Flight Journey Became a Children's Book | Children's Nonfiction Craft

Join host Kirsten Larson as she interviews Chana Stiefel and Captain Barrington Irving about their picture book "Let's Fly: Barrington Irving's Record-Breaking Flight Around the World." Discover the craft behind adapting Barrington's incredible aviation journey from a 50,000-word expedition log to middle grade to a 1,000-word picture book that puts young readers in the co-pilot seat.

In this episode of the Nonfiction Kid Lit Craft Conversations podcast, learn about:

This conversation is essential listening for children's book authors, illustrators, educators, librarians, and anyone interested in aviation, STEM education, or the craft of writing compelling nonfiction for children.

Links mentioned: The book: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/709610/lets-fly-by-barrington-irving-and-chana-stiefel-illustrated-by-shamar-knight-justice/

https://chanastiefel.com

https://flyingclassroom.com

https://www.bittschool.com

Sign up for Kirsten's newsletter (to get the transcript) and to be notified about future episodes: https://kirstenwlarson.com

Keywords: children's nonfiction, picture book writing, aviation for kids, STEM education, Barrington Irving, children's book craft, nonfiction picture books, writing process, first-person narrative, author collaboration, kidlit craft, aviation education, Guinness World Record, narrative structure, author interviews

Tags #ChildrensBooks #NonfictionPictureBooks #AviationForKids #WritingCraft #STEMEducation #BarringtonIrving #KidLit #AuthorInterview #PictureBookCraft #WritingProcess #ChildrensAuthors #NonfictionWriting #GoodNightStories #ReadAloud #EducationalContent #ChildrensLiterature #BookCreation #PilotStories #DiverseBooks #AuthorCollaboration

School Visits for Children's Authors: Expert Tips with Ann Koffsky | Nonfiction Kidlit Podcast

In this episode of the Nonfiction Kidlit Craft Conversations podcast, host Kirsten Larson interviews Ann Koffsky, author and illustrator of more than 50 children's books, about how to create successful school visits and venue events.

Ann shares her expertise on planning, executing, and marketing school visits that engage young readers while helping authors build their career. Whether you're just starting out or looking to improve your existing school visit program, this conversation offers practical advice from an experienced professional.

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00 Introduction

02:20 What are school and venue visits?

04:25 Benefits of school visits for authors

09:00 Managing book sales during visits

14:00 Challenges of school visits and classroom management

15:50 Engagement strategies for different age groups

19:09 Creating takeaways and meaningful messages

22:34 Giving away materials when not everyone buys books

25.28 Marketing yourself to schools

35:44 Practical tips and things to know before you start

37:43 Where to find Ann Koffsky

FEATURED BOOKS:

• Ping Pong Shabbat: The True Story of Champion Estee Ackerman (illustrated by Abigail Rajunov)

• The Peddler and the President (illustrated by Pedro Rodriguez) RESOURCES MENTIONED:

• Imprint.com (for affordable bookmarks)

• Creating coloring pages as giveaways

• World Read Aloud Day opportunities

• BOCES (NY) and similar educational service organizations

CONNECT WITH ANN KOFFSKY:

Website: https://annkoffsky.com

Instagram: @annkoffsky

CONNECT WITH KIRSTEN LARSON:

Website: https://kirstenwlarson.com

Newsletter: http://kirstenwlarson.com

#SchoolVisits #AuthorVisits #ChildrensAuthor #KidLit #NonfictionKidlit #AuthorMarketing #TeacherResources #LibrarianResources #WritingCommunity #BookTalks #PictureBookAuthor #JewishBooks #AuthorTips #WritingAdvice

In this episode of Nonfiction Kid Lit Craft Conversations, host Kirsten W. Larson interviews debut author Kamilani Hurley about her Junior Library Guild selection "Kaho'olawe: The True Story of an Island and Her People."

Learn valuable insights about:

Perfect for:

- Children's book writers

- Educators

- Illustrators

- Anyone interested in Hawaiian history

- Nonfiction storytellers

Connect with our guest: Website: KamalaniHurley.com

Get the transcript: KirstenWlarson.com

Subscribe for more episodes about the craft and business of children's nonfiction!

#ChildrensBooks #WritingTips #KidLit #NonfictionBooks #AuthorInterview #WritingCommunity #PictureBooks #HawaiianHistory #JuniorLibraryGuild #KidLitCraft

🔍 How to Write Page-Turning Nonfiction Picture Books | Writing Craft Tips with Beth Anderson

Master the art of writing gripping nonfiction picture books in this craft-focused interview with award-winning children's author Beth Anderson. Discover the behind-the-scenes process of her latest book "Hiding in Plain Sight: Kate Warne and The Race to Save Abraham Lincoln," illustrated by Sally Wern Comport (Calkins Creek).

✍️ WRITING CRAFT TECHNIQUES COVERED:

• Creating page-turning tension in nonfiction

• Writing historical events for young readers

• Balancing context and pacing in picture books

• Developing character emotions in nonfiction

• Using research to enhance storytelling

• Working with editors and illustrators

Perfect for nonfiction picture book writers, children's book authors, and anyone interested in writing engaging historical stories for kids. Beth shares specific examples and practical techniques you can apply to your own writing.

👉 RESOURCES MENTIONED:

Nonfiction Fest: www.nffest.com

Kirsten's "Reimagine Your Writing" Workshop: writers.kirstenwlarson.com

Beth's website: https://BethAndersonWriter.com

Free educator guide: https://bethandersonwriter.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/hiding-in-plain-sight-ed-guide.pdf

Interiority w/ Mary Kole: HTTPS://KIDLIT.COM/2017/10/23/WHAT-INTERIORITY-IS-AND-WHY-IT-MATTERS/

Psychic distance from Emma Darwin https://emmadarwin.typepad.com/thisitchofwriting/psychic-distance-what-it-is-and-how-to-use-it.html

Kirsten's website (to join newsletter for transcripts and for podcast website): https://kirstenwlarson.com

#NonfictionPictureBooks #KidLit #WritingTips #ChildrensBooks #PictureBookCraft #WritingCommunity #AmWriting #KidLitWriter #NonfictionWriting #PictureBooks #WritingForChildren #AuthorInterview #HistoricalNonfiction #WritingProcess #KidLitCraft #HistoricalFiction #WritersOfYoutube #AuthorTips #PictureBookWriting #WritingAdvice

📚 Buy "Hiding in Plain Sight": Available at all major booksellers

🎨 Join us for an inspiring conversation with Katherine Roy, the acclaimed creator of "Making More" and "Sea Without a Shore" with Barb Rosenstock! In this episode, Kirsten Larson interviews Katherine about her fascinating journey from RISD graduate to award-winning nonfiction author and illustrator.

Discover how a stint as a deckhand sparked Katherine's passion for marine biology, leading to her breakthrough book deal with Simon Boughton. Learn about her unique creative process, from messy sketches to stunning final illustrations, and get insider tips on:

#ChildrensBooks #Illustration #PictureBooks #Nonfiction #KidLit #Publishing #CreativeProcess #AuthorInterview #ArtEducation #ChildrensLiterature

Links:

Scott McCloud's UNDERSTANDING COMICS: https://bookshop.org/p/books/understanding-comics-the-invisible-art-scott-mccloud/228758?ean=9780060976255

Katherine's bookmaking process: https://www.instagram.com/reel/COyWwu0H4Xk/?hl=en

Follow Katherine:

Website: https://www.katherineroy.com

Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/katherineroystudio/ 

Follow Kirsten:

Website: https://kirstenwlarson.com

Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/kirstenwlarson/ 

To get the full transcript of this podcast, sign up for Kirsten's newsletter. It will be included with the next monthly mailing.

Sign up here:  https://kirsten-w-larson.kit.com/8ca48d284c 

Want to shape the conversation? Join my Reimagine Insiders paid community for an opportunity to ask future guests your questions.  https://writers.kirstenwlarson.com/b/insiders 

Learn more about my new class, "Crafting Your Nonfiction Picture Book: A step-by-step revision course," here.  https://writers.kirstenwlarson.com/b/craftingclass 

What does it take to craft a compelling children's nonfiction book proposal?

Today I talk to Stephanie Gibeault, author of MAKING SENSE OF DOG SENSES, to learn more about book proposals.

Show notes:

Classes and resources mentioned:

    •    Jane Friedman’s book proposal post (which also includes a proposal template): https://janefriedman.com/start-here-how-to-write-a-book-proposal/

    •    Highlights Foundation: https://www.highlightsfoundation.org/

    •    MG Expository Pitches Post (including Stephanie's pitches): https://kirstenwlarson.com/2024/09/20/winning-expository-book-pitches-examples-and-analysis/

    •    Stephanie's website: https://stephaniegibeault.com/

    •    Her X profile is @GibeaultWrites: https://x.com/GibeaultWrites

    •    Her Instagram profile is @stephanie_gibeault: https://www.instagram.com/stephanie_gibeault/

To get the full transcript of this podcast, sign up for Kirsten's newsletter. It will be included with my next monthly mailing. Sign up here:

https://kirsten-w-larson.kit.com/8ca48d284c

Want to shape the conversation? Join my Reimagine Insiders paid community for an opportunity to ask future guests your questions.

https://writers.kirstenwlarson.com/b/insiders

What does it take to craft a compelling children's nonfiction book proposal?

Today I talk to Stephanie Gibeault, author of MAKING SENSE OF DOG SENSES, to learn more about book proposals.

To get the full transcript of this podcast, sign up for Kirsten's newsletter. It will be included with my next monthly mailing. Sign up here: https://kirsten-w-larson.kit.com/8ca48d284c

Want to shape the conversation? Join my Reimagine Insiders paid community for an opportunity to ask future guests your questions. https://writers.kirstenwlarson.com/b/insiders

How do we craft, edit, and sell poetic nonfiction picture books? Today I talk to Buffy Silverman, author of STARLIGHT SYMPHONY, to learn more about writing in rhyme.

• Renée LaTulippe's Lyrical Language Lab: https://www.reneelatulippe.com/lyrical-language-lab/

• April Pulley Sayre

• THE PUMPKIN SEED'S SECRET by Hannah Barnaby, illustrated by Cédric Abt

Connect with Buffy at https://buffysilverman.com/

You can order STARLIGHT SYMPHONY wherever books are sold. Please support Buffy by asking your local library to buy a copy of STARLIGHT SYMPHONY for its collection. Details about the book here: https://lernerbooks.com/shop/show/24762

To get the full transcript of this podcast, sign up for my newsletter. It will be included with my next monthly mailing. https://kirsten-w-larson.ck.page/8ca48d284c

Want to shape the conversation? Join my Reimagine Insiders paid community for an opportunity to ask future guests your questions. https://writers.kirstenwlarson.com/b/insiders