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Episode Summary:
In this Ask B&L episode, Lisa interviews Beth about her work as a book coach and what aspiring authors need to know before querying. Beth shares how she supports writers through revisions, builds their confidence, and helps them reach submission-ready status.

Guest Bio:
Beth McMullen is the author of multiple middle grade novels and a seasoned book coach who works primarily with middle grade writers. Drawing from her own experience in traditional publishing, Beth helps writers finish manuscripts, tackle revisions, and prepare their work for submission with a focus on structure, accountability, and emotional support.

Key Discussion Points:

• What is a book coach? Beth explains how a coach differs from an editor or critique group and why coaching provides actionable, structured feedback.
• Common issues writers face: From missing stakes to flat pacing or starting in the wrong place, Beth identifies recurring manuscript problems and how they’re fixable.
• The first step in coaching: A conversation to define the writer’s goals—whether it’s finishing a book or preparing to query.
• The emotional side of writing: Writers often need support and affirmation; coaching includes “30% therapy.”
• Breakthrough moments: Writers go from feeling overwhelmed to finding clarity and confidence with a clear roadmap.
• Advice for stuck writers: Write a logline. If you can’t summarize your story in one sentence, you may not be clear on it yourself.
• Target audience: Beth currently works mostly with middle grade fiction writers, avoiding genres like hardcore sci-fi or nonfiction.

Conclusion:
Book coaching bridges the gap between idea and execution, offering writers not only professional guidance but also much-needed support in a solitary craft. Beth’s kind, structured, and honest approach empowers writers to believe in their work and themselves. Aspiring authors—especially those ready to query—can benefit immensely from this episode’s insights.

Mentioned Links:

• Newsletter & Cheat Sheets: www.writerswithwrinkles.net
• Beth’s Book Coaching Services: bethmcmullenbooks.com
• Upcoming Guest: Barb Hopkins on self-publishing (airing August 18)
• Instagram: @bethmcmullenbooks

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Episode Summary:
In this episode of Writers With Wrinkles, literary agent and author Joyce Sweeney joins Beth and Lisa to explore the challenges and opportunities in today’s publishing landscape. With decades of experience, Joyce shares invaluable advice for writers on market trends, querying, agent relationships, and staying resilient in a tough industry.

Guest Bio:
Joyce Sweeney is the Director of KidLit at The Seymour Agency, where they’ve worked as a literary agent for five years. Prior to agenting, Joyce spent decades as a writing coach, developmental editor, and author of 14 young adult novels and two poetry collections. With a sharp eye for story and deep empathy for authors, Joyce brings a unique blend of industry knowledge and creative passion to every project.

Key Discussion Points:

• Publishing Trends: Middle grade remains tough but not impossible; picture books are more stable, and there's growing interest in unique formats and themes like verse novels and New Age topics.
• Agenting Insights: The importance of concept and hook in a query far outweighs just beautiful prose; originality and marketability are key.
• AI in Publishing: Joyce sees no real threat from AI to traditional publishing, emphasizing that creativity, emotion, and lived experience can’t be replicated by machines.
• Advice for Writers: Write what you love, not what’s trending; publishing is cyclical and unpredictable. Persistence and a strong concept will eventually open doors.
• Red Flags & Green Flags in Queries: Be clear about your genre and word count; know your audience; don’t blindly pitch without researching agents.
• When to Walk Away: A lack of communication, refusal to share submission information, or pushing you toward predatory publishers are serious warning signs.
• What Joyce is Looking For: Unique YA stories, New Age themes in picture books (like astrology and pagan holidays), and anything that surprises her.

Conclusion:
Joyce Sweeney brings refreshing honesty and deep insight into the challenges of KidLit and the wider publishing industry. Her advice emphasizes the importance of a standout concept, a resilient mindset, and choosing the right agent-client match. Writers are encouraged to stay the course, believe in their work, and always lead with heart.

Mentioned Links:

• Podcast blog & notes: https://writerswithwrinkles.net
• The Seymour Agency: https://theseymouragency.com

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🎙️ Episode Summary:
In this bonus episode, Beth McMullen switches roles from co-host to guest to explore how to write compelling action and adventure for middle grade readers. Originally recorded for Sara Gentry's KidLit Summer Camp, this conversation is packed with practical tips and emotional insight for writers crafting page-turning stories for kids.

👩‍💼 Guest Bio:
Beth McMullen is the author of ten traditionally published novels, including the Mrs. Smith's Spy School for Girls and Secret of the Storm series. She is also the co-host of the Writers With Wrinkles podcast, founder of the You Can Write a Book Substack, and a certified book coach through Author Accelerator. With over 20 years in the publishing industry, Beth helps writers push past messy middles, plot holes, and self-doubt to write stories that matter.

💡 Key Discussion Points:

• Why action sequences are so vital in middle grade and how to compete with the fast-paced media kids consume.
• The importance of giving child protagonists agency—making decisions, facing consequences, and driving the story forward.
• Balancing high-octane action with emotional tension: why stakes don't always have to involve explosions.
• Removing adults from the foreground to allow young characters to lead the narrative.
• Tips for writing character-driven emotional arcs, even for pantsers.
• How to use tools like “The 7 Keys to Writing Stories Kids Can’t Put Down” to troubleshoot plot and pacing issues.
• Why voice, surprise, and emotional truth are non-negotiable for successful middle grade.

🔚 Conclusion:
Writing action for middle grade readers means understanding the emotional world of kids and blending it with immersive, high-energy storytelling. Whether you're plotting an epic fantasy or writing a fast-paced mystery, Beth’s insight offers both inspiration and actionable guidance.

🔗 Mentioned Links:

• Beth’s website: bethmcmullenbooks.com
• Substack: You Can Write a Book
• Free resource: The 7 Keys to Writing Stories Kids Can’t Put Down
• Visit solutionsforwriters.com to learn more about Sara Gentry's book coaching services and KidLit Summer Camp 

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In this Ask Beth & Lisa episode, the hosts dive into the complex topic of using artificial intelligence as a writing tool. They share personal anecdotes, practical strategies, and ethical considerations for writers navigating AI in the creative process.

Key Discussion Points:

• Recent Highlights: Beth and Lisa reference two previous episodes with editor Joel Brigham and encourage listeners to grab the accompanying cheat sheets at writerswithwrinkles.net by signing up for the newsletter.
• AI as a Writing Tool: The duo clarifies that AI should not be used as a ghostwriter but can serve as an effective assistant in the writing process.
• Ethical Use Cases:
  • Organizing messy revision notes into actionable workflows.
  • Generating setting-specific sensory details.
  • Providing era-specific context for historical scenes.
  • Verifying world-building consistency in fantasy and speculative fiction.
• Cautionary Insights:
  • AI-generated writing often lacks voice and over-explains.
  • Always fact-check AI outputs, especially historical or technical information.
  • Be wary of labeling files poorly—both hosts share horror stories of lost drafts and mismatched versions.
• Creative Challenges:
  • Writing and revising across genres.
  • Navigating tech hiccups and summer distractions.
  • Rediscovering joy in storytelling through character and genre shifts.

Conclusion:
Beth and Lisa emphasize that AI, when used ethically and strategically, can streamline parts of the writing process without replacing creativity. They encourage listeners to share their own AI usage stories and remind writers to trust their instincts—especially when choosing literary agents. Don’t forget to check out the private Facebook group, The Waiting Room, for peer support and upcoming questions for literary agent Leslie Zampetti’s September episode.

Mentioned Links:

• Cheat Sheets: writerswithwrinkles.net
• Facebook Group: The Waiting Room (via Writers With Wrinkles community)

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In this information-packed episode, editor Joel Brigham returns to dive deep into the art of revision, breaking down the essential steps writers must take to polish their manuscripts. From identifying critical story beats to understanding character agency and narrative pacing, Joel offers a masterclass in transforming a draft into a submission-ready novel.

Guest Bio:
Joel Brigham is a professional editor, former NBA journalist, and passionate advocate for emerging authors. With over a decade of editorial experience and a background in teaching, Joel brings deep insight into storytelling structure, character development, and the realities of the publishing industry.

Key Discussion Points:

• Revision in Phases: Joel shares his six-phase editing approach, starting with foundational story beats like the inciting incident, midpoint turn, and “all hope is lost” moment.
• Character Development: Tips on ensuring all characters—not just the protagonist—have motivation, depth, and personal arcs.
• Tension & Stakes: Why every chapter must carry tension and what makes stakes compelling enough to hook readers and agents.
• Checklist for Self-Editing: Joel outlines critical revision questions including character agency, dialogue realism, narrative voice consistency, appropriate word count, readability scores, and genre expectations.
• Avoiding Common Pitfalls: Advice on preventing rushed endings, fixing saggy middles, and using tools like the “but/therefore” method for coherent structure.
• Voice Development: Joel explains why voice can’t be forced and shares strategies to cultivate it through imitation, feedback, and cross-genre writing.
• Final Polish Tips: Encouragement to revise in focused passes, gather outside feedback, and avoid the impatience that leads to premature querying.

Conclusion:
Joel Brigham offers writers not only a clear, step-by-step path through revision, but also the inspiration to stick with it. With practical advice and a refreshing blend of honesty and encouragement, this episode is essential listening for anyone preparing to submit their manuscript.

Mentioned Links:

• for episode cheat sheets, sign up for the Writers With Wrinkles newsletter

🎧 Tune in and share with the writer in your life who’s ready to revise with purpose and confidence.

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Beth and Lisa are joined by editor and author Joel Brigham to discuss the messy, magical process of drafting. Joel shares practical advice to help writers overcome perfectionism and keep their momentum through the challenging early stages of a manuscript.

Guest Bio:
Joel Brigham is a seasoned developmental editor and founder of Brigham Editorial. With over 21 years of experience as an English teacher, Joel also mentors authors through RevPit, an online writing community focused on providing free editorial feedback. He is a former Pitch Wars mentor and the author of multiple novels, with a passion for coaching writers through their creative blocks.

Key Discussion Points:

• The core purpose of a first draft: “Words on the page—period.”
• Avoiding perfectionism and maintaining momentum in early writing stages.
• The power of psychology in writing: Zeigarnik effect, goal gradient effect, and the commitment and consistency principle.
• Common drafting mistakes: cliché openings, info dumping, lack of conflict, and undefined characters.
• How to start a novel and what elements (plot, character, theme, world) might help, especially across genres.
• Discovery writing vs. plotting: how to use strategic check-ins every 15-20k words to stay on course.
• The importance of not editing too early and letting bad writing exist temporarily.
• Encouragement for writers to embrace their individual process while building systems to reduce overwhelm.

Conclusion:
Joel Brigham offers not just craft knowledge, but a motivational boost for every writer wrestling with doubt or perfectionism. Whether you're a plotter or discovery writer, Joel’s advice focuses on giving yourself grace, building momentum, and ultimately, finishing that draft.

Mentioned Links:

• Sign up for the Writers With Wrinkles newsletter for episode cheat sheets: https://writerswithwrinkles.net

Listeners are encouraged to visit the site for more on Joel and to submit questions for future episodes.

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Episode Summary:
In this engaging Ask B&L episode, Beth McMullen and Lisa Schmid tackle two of the most commonly asked questions from aspiring authors: what is voice in writing and how do you navigate the editorial process? With personal anecdotes, practical advice, and a whole lot of writerly camaraderie, Beth and Lisa break down complex concepts with clarity and humor.

Key Discussion Points:

• Catching Up: Beth shares travel stories from Copenhagen and Amsterdam, including a must-visit bakery (Anderson Bakery), while Lisa talks about her current writing phase and genre pivot.
• What Is Voice?: Beth uses a brilliant analogy inspired by the Van Gogh Museum to define voice as an evolution of style that emerges through experimentation and imitation, becoming uniquely yours over time. Lisa highlights how voice is infused with the author’s personality and reflects their authentic self.
• Understanding the Editorial Process:
  • Advice on handling editorial letters—read, reflect, highlight, and revisit.
  • The importance of setting ego aside and seeing editors as collaborators.
  • When and how to push back while preserving your voice.
  • Personal experiences with accepting or negotiating changes during revisions.
  • Encouragement to not feel overwhelmed and to treat edits as opportunities for growth.

Conclusion:
Beth and Lisa offer real, grounded insight that demystifies the writing and editing journey for emerging authors. Whether you’re figuring out your voice or working through your first editorial letter, this episode is a warm, insightful companion that reminds you—you’re not alone.

Mentioned Links:

• Visit: writerswithwrinkles.net
• Bakery Mention: Andersen Bakery (Copenhagen)
• Upcoming Guest on June 9: Editor Joel Brigham on fast drafting

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In this encore edition, Beth and Lisa chat with Ivan Taurisano, Associate Editor at Abrams, who specializes in children's literature and intellectual properties. Ivan shares insider tips on creating standout submissions, navigating the acquisition process, and the evolving trends in middle-grade publishing.

Guest Bio

Ivan Taurisano is an Associate Editor at Abrams, specializing in children's licenses and intellectual property. His work includes novelty books, board books, graphic novels, and select MG and YA titles. He has collaborated on several successful series and brands, such as How to Catch, Little Heroes, Big Hearts, Sesame Street, Disney, Tokidoki, and Pokémon. His guiding principle is that a child whose life is transformed by a book is one step closer to becoming an adult who will change the world.

Key Discussion Points

1. Submission Essentials: Ivan emphasizes the importance of polished manuscripts, strategic research, and personalized query letters. Authors should highlight why their work fits the editor’s preferences and demonstrate professionalism to make a strong first impression.
2. Acquisition Process: Ivan demystifies the journey of a manuscript from editorial meetings to marketing evaluations, highlighting what makes or breaks a deal.
3. Middle-Grade Trends: The market is leaning toward shorter, action-packed, and visually engaging middle-grade books. Writers are encouraged to innovate and break traditional molds to captivate readers.
4. Social Media & Track Records: While a social media platform isn’t a dealbreaker, it’s a bonus for YA and middle-grade authors. Past sales numbers of debut books are discussed critically during acquisitions, with publishers investigating contributing factors to performance.
5. Opportunities in Chapter Books: There’s room for new voices in character-driven chapter books, with series potential being a key factor for success.

Conclusion

This episode provides actionable advice for aspiring authors to refine their submissions and navigate publishing with confidence. Ivan’s insights, grounded in industry expertise, offer a roadmap for writers seeking to make an impact in children’s literature.

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Episode Summary:
In this inspiring episode, Beth and Lisa welcome bestselling author and illustrator Brian Selznick to discuss his latest YA novel Run Away With Me. Brian shares how personal history, queer identity, and the haunting beauty of an empty Rome during the pandemic shaped this deeply moving love story.

Guest Bio:
Brian Selznick is the Caldecott Medal-winning author of The Invention of Hugo Cabret, which became Martin Scorsese's Oscar-winning film Hugo. His innovative storytelling style blends narrative and illustration, captivating readers of all ages. Selznick’s books have sold millions of copies, been translated into over 35 languages, and include the bestsellers Wonderstruck and The Marvels. He lives in Brooklyn and La Jolla with his husband, Dr. David Serlin.

Key Discussion Points:

• Origins of Run Away With Me: Inspired by time spent in a deserted Rome during the pandemic and Brian’s husband's Rome Prize fellowship.
• Setting the Story in 1986: Chosen for its pre-digital intimacy, connection to Fellini's Intervista, and poignant resonance with the emerging AIDS crisis.
• YA Shift: This novel marks a shift to older characters and more intimate, emotional themes, including first love and sexual awakening.
• Illustration vs. Text: Originally intended as a text-only novel, illustrations were later added to immerse readers in Rome and enhance storytelling rhythmically.
• Building Empathy: Through vulnerability and layered character flaws, Brian explores how readers connect with characters even through their mistakes.
• Worldbuilding & Pacing: Brian discusses how his illustrations function as visual memory aids, reducing exposition and preserving narrative flow.
• Film Adaptation Insight: Brian details how Hugo was faithfully adapted by Martin Scorsese, who honored the visual storytelling of the book.

Conclusion:
Brian Selznick offers a masterclass in layered storytelling, blending history, personal experience, and imaginative worldbuilding. Run Away With Me is a love letter to young queer love, art, and the haunting beauty of solitude and discovery. This episode is a must-listen for aspiring authors and fans of emotionally resonant fiction.

Mentioned Links:

• Run Away With Me by Brian Selznick: Publisher's Page
• Brian Selznick's website

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Beth and Lisa sit down with Carey Blankenship-Kramer, literary agent and author of Ghost Scout's Honor, to talk all things publishing—from crafting irresistible query letters to the harsh realities of publishing economics. Carey shares heartfelt insights on the future of middle grade, the evolving horror genre, and what truly makes her heart sing when reading submissions.

Guest Bio:
Carey Blankenship-Kramer is a literary agent and author whose debut novel Ghost Scout's Honor (Scholastic, April 2025) is a queer, neurodiverse middle grade horror adventure set in ghost-filled Savannah. Since becoming an agent in 2023, Carey has championed authors across genres, prioritizing marginalized voices. When not agenting or writing, she enjoys tennis, video games, candy, and time with her "small zoo" of pets.

Key Discussion Points:

• About Ghost Scout's Honor: A spooky, empowering middle grade debut featuring determined protagonist Evie and her ghostly adventures. Carey combines horror, Southern charm, and inclusivity.
• Query Letter Insights: Carey emphasizes the importance of a pitch that hooks instantly. Personal stakes, clear comps, and authentic vibes matter most to her.
• The State of Middle Grade Publishing: Attention spans are down, publishers aren't effectively reaching younger audiences, and shorter, snappier stories are performing better.
• Industry Challenges: The impact of tariffs, the collapse of Albert Whitman, and the increasing corporatization of publishing are creating financial and emotional challenges for authors.
• Trends to Watch: Horror and dystopian genres are rising. Carey sees these as reflections of readers processing real-world fears in safe, fictional environments.
• What Makes Carey’s Heart Sing: Emotional depth layered within horror or fantasy. She seeks stories that offer both escapism and human connection.

Conclusion:
This candid conversation offers aspiring authors vital knowledge straight from someone who’s both querying and reading slush piles. Carey’s advice is invaluable for writers like Luna—aspiring novelists navigating today’s unpredictable publishing world. From query do’s and don’ts to genre shifts and emotional resilience, this episode is a must-listen.

Mentioned Links:

• Carey's Debut: Ghost Scout's Honor (Scholastic, April 2025)
• Writers With Wrinkles blog

Submit questions for future episodes via Writers With Wrinkles social media, through the 'send us a text' link above or through the podcast blog.

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