Writers With Wrinkles

In this Ask Beth & Lisa episode, the hosts tackle a common writer struggle: getting out of a creative rut. They share personal experiences, actionable strategies, and insights from working with critique partners and beta readers to reignite motivation and improve writing.

Key Discussion Points

• Recognizing a Writing Rut: How to identify when you’re stuck in autopilot and losing creative energy.
• Micro Goals for Progress: Beth shares her strategy of setting small, achievable goals like 500-word daily targets to push through blocks.
• Shaking Up Routine: The benefits of changing writing environments, traveling, or even dictating chapters while walking to boost creativity.
• The Power of Beta Readers & New Critique Partners: Lisa explains how fresh eyes on her manuscript helped her identify repetitive writing habits and refine her storytelling.
• Finding the Right Critique Group: The importance of choosing partners whose work aligns with your writing style and elevates your craft.
• Using The Waiting Room for Writers: How their private Facebook group helps authors connect, find critique partners, and navigate publishing challenges.

Conclusion

Breaking out of a writing rut requires intentional shifts—whether through setting small goals, changing routines, or seeking new perspectives. The key is to stay engaged, experiment with different methods, and remember that creative slumps are temporary.

Mentioned Links

• Join The Waiting Room (Private Facebook Group for Writers)
• Writers With Wrinkles Website: writerswithwrinkles.net

Beth & Lisa return on March 3rd with guest Meg Gaertner, Managing Editor at Flux and Jollyfish Press, to discuss editorial insights. Don’t forget to subscribe, follow, and share the podcast!

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In this episode of Writers With Wrinkles, we welcome Adria Goetz, a Senior Literary Agent at KT Literary, to discuss the dos and don’ts of querying, how to stand out in a crowded submission pile, and navigating industry challenges like editor transitions. Aspiring authors will gain valuable insights into crafting compelling pitches, building resilience, and staying attuned to market trends.

Guest Bio

Adria Goetz is a Senior Literary Agent and Illustration Coordinator at KT Literary, specializing in picture books, middle grade, graphic novels, and adult fiction. She has represented numerous bestsellers, including Millie Fleur's Poison Garden and The Crescent Moon Tea Room. A fan of whimsy and heartfelt storytelling, Adria enjoys re-watching Gilmore Girls and dreaming of life in a mossy stone cottage.

Key Discussion Points

• The Querying Process: Adria shares tips on crafting warm, professional, and specific query letters, emphasizing how to make an immediate impression on literary agents.
• Navigating Rejections: Advice on interpreting agent feedback and why “near misses” are a good sign of progress for aspiring writers.
• Industry Insights: Adria discusses the realities of agent submissions, the competitiveness of the market, and strategies for writers facing challenges like editor transitions or poor past book sales.
• Market Trends for 2025: The rise of genre mashups, cozy fantasy, romanticcy, and magical speculative stories, as well as opportunities in neglected spaces like stories featuring 14–15-year-old protagonists.
• Building Resilience: Why persistence, adaptability, and proactive marketing are essential for long-term success in publishing.

Conclusion

Adria offers encouraging and practical advice for writers striving to break into publishing. From perfecting the query letter to navigating industry challenges, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help writers stay motivated and informed on their journey to publication.

Mentioned Links

• Learn more about Adria Goetz: KT Literary
• The Mixed-Up Files of Middle-Grade Authors (Cover reveal for The Library of Curiosities)
• Podcast blog and notes: Writers With Wrinkles

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In this Ask Beth & Lisa episode, the hosts tackle listener questions about navigating the challenges of writing and publishing, including understanding agent rejections and crafting strong hooks. They also discuss personal writing goals and the importance of building supportive writer communities.

Key Discussion Points

1. New Year's Writing Resolutions:
   • Beth aims to quit Amazon shopping and regain control over external influences.
   • Lisa focuses on rediscovering joy in writing after a challenging year in publishing.
2. Understanding Agent Rejections:
   • "No editorial vision" often means agents can't see how a manuscript aligns with their list or market goals.
   • A polished manuscript and a clear understanding of its market positioning are critical for agent interest.
3. Crafting a Strong Commercial Hook:
   • A book’s hook must be compelling and marketable, summed up in a concise logline.
   • Before starting a manuscript, writers should identify the core premise and target audience.
4. Writer Community Support:
   • Beth and Lisa highlight the value of their private Facebook group, "The Waiting Room," as a resource for writers to ask questions, share experiences, and find encouragement.
5. Podcast Updates:
   • Plans to incorporate video clips from recordings into social media to enhance listener engagement.
   • Upcoming episodes with industry guests, including agents and editors.

Conclusion

Beth and Lisa encourage writers to embrace community support, focus on market readiness, and maintain resilience in the face of rejection. They invite listeners to submit questions, join the Facebook group, and support the podcast by subscribing and sharing.

Mentioned Links

• The Waiting Room (Facebook Group): A private space for writers at all levels to connect and seek guidance.
• Website: WritersWithWrinkles.net

Join the next episode featuring Agent Adria Goetz on February 3rd!

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**Please Note: Guest Adria Gaetz episode will drop on February 3rd, not January 20th.**

In the premier episode of Season 4, 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.

Links Mentioned

• Join the The Waiting Room Facebook Group for personalized writing tips and peer support.
• Visit Writers With Wrinkles for additional podcast notes and resources.

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Episode Summary:
Beth and Lisa chat with Kaitlyn Sanchez, literary agent at Bradford Literary and co-creator of kidlit contests, about navigating the publishing industry. Kaitlyn shares actionable insights for aspiring authors on trends, querying agents, and creating standout manuscripts.

Guest Bio:
Kaitlyn Sanchez is a literary agent at Bradford Literary, middle school math teacher, and co-creator of the Spring Fling Kidlit Contest, Kidlit Zombie Week, and the Kidlit Fall Writing Frenzy. A passionate advocate for children's literature, Kaitlyn specializes in helping writers connect their stories with the right editors while encouraging diversity and humor in picture books.

Key Discussion Points:

1. Emerging Trends in Picture Books:
   • Increased demand for diverse stories that represent all children.
   • A post-COVID push for humorous stories as a counterbalance to emotional content.
   • Picture book sales have declined slightly post-COVID boom but remain competitive.
2. Advice for Aspiring Authors:
   • Have at least 3-4 polished manuscripts ready before querying agents.
   • Tailor your submissions to reflect your unique voice while aligning with market trends.
   • Persist through rejection (or "passes"), as the right agent/editor match takes time.
3. The Importance of Relationships:
   • Kaitlyn emphasizes the value of connecting personally with editors to match manuscripts with the right fit.
   • She built her knowledge of the publishing landscape from scratch, focusing on imprint dynamics and editor preferences.
4. Contests and Creative Growth:
   • Kaitlyn highlights the value of free writing contests like the Kidlit Fall Writing Frenzy and Storystorm for generating fresh ideas.
5. Alternative Paths:
   • Authors can query agents and submit directly to publishers simultaneously, increasing opportunities for success.

Conclusion:
Kaitlyn inspires writers with her passion for the craft and dedication to finding "the right fit" for every manuscript. Her actionable advice and genuine enthusiasm make this a must-listen episode for aspiring picture book authors.

Mentioned Links:

• Learn more about Kaitlyn Sanchez: Bradford Literary
• Contests: Spring Fling Kidlit Contest, Kidlit Fall Writing Frenzy
• Podcast Website: writerswithwrinkles.net

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In this engaging season finale, Beth and Lisa address common writing and publishing challenges, offering practical advice for aspiring authors. From navigating illustration decisions to overcoming the hurdles of low book sales, they provide actionable insights with humor and honesty.

Key Discussion Points

1. Illustration Questions for Authors:

• Clarified that non-illustrator authors do not need to provide illustrations for their books; publishers manage that process.
• Shared insights into the collaboration between authors and illustrators, including how unexpected details can enhance a book.

1. Author Jail and Sales Pressure:

• Discussed the harsh realities of publishing, including the industry’s focus on first-month sales and its impact on future opportunities.
• Explained strategies for recovering from disappointing sales, such as using pseudonyms, switching genres, or trying self-publishing.
• Encouraged writers to stay resilient and explore new opportunities despite setbacks.

1. Upcoming Initiatives:

• Announced a new recurring event: Ask Beth and Lisa Live on Facebook, launching December 10th.
• Teased exciting content for Season 4, including interviews with agents and editors, set to begin January 6th.

Conclusion

Beth and Lisa wrapped up Season 3 with gratitude and excitement for the future, emphasizing their commitment to providing valuable content for writers. They encouraged listeners to join their Facebook group and submit questions for upcoming episodes.

Mentioned Links

• Ask Beth and Lisa Live Event (Dec 10): Join the private Facebook group.
• Podcast Website: writerswithwrinkles.net.

Note: Don’t miss the Season 4 premiere on January 6th, featuring an exclusive agent interview!

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In this impromptu episode (guest couldn't make it last minute!!), Beth McMullen and Lisa Schmid dive into the challenges of finishing a novel, with Lisa candidly sharing her ongoing struggles with her book's last chapter. The hosts discuss strategies to avoid rushed endings and ways to reignite enthusiasm during the final stages of writing.

Guest Bio
No guest this week—Beth and Lisa take center stage with an unscripted and authentic conversation.

Key Discussion Points

The Perils of the Last Chapter
Lisa describes her repeated attempts to finalize her book's ending and the temptation to keep adding chapters. Beth recalls her experience writing her first book, where she wrote the last chapter first, a strategy she recommends for some writers.

Avoiding Rushed Endings
The hosts highlight how rushed endings can diminish a reader’s experience, using personal and external examples.

Tips for pacing include stepping back from the manuscript and revisiting earlier sections to fill gaps.

Rebuilding Enthusiasm
Taking breaks from writing and seeking feedback from critique partners are emphasized as ways to maintain motivation.

Positive critique experiences can serve as a catalyst to complete drafts.

Writer's Emotional Investment
Lisa shares her struggles with critique and reviews, reinforcing the emotional journey of authorship.

Both hosts agree that writers often seek external validation but should balance it with self-confidence.

Conclusion
Beth and Lisa encourage writers to approach their final chapters with patience and intentionality, offering practical advice to keep the creative spark alive. Whether it’s taking a break or tackling the ending with a fresh perspective, the hosts remind listeners that perseverance leads to rewarding results.

Mentioned Links

• Writers With Wrinkles Podcast Notes and Blog
• Submit questions for the upcoming "Ask Beth and Lisa" episode via the podcast website.

Listeners, join us for the next episode on December 9th, and send in your questions!

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In this episode of Writers with Wrinkles, Beth McMullen and Lisa Schmid tackle the harsh realities of getting "orphaned" in publishing and offer practical tips for authors to navigate setbacks when their editors leave mid-project. They discuss proactive steps authors can take to protect their work, advocate for themselves, and manage expectations in an unpredictable industry.

Key Discussion Points

• What It Means to be Orphaned: Beth and Lisa explain how "orphaning" happens in publishing—when an acquiring editor leaves the publisher, leaving the author without a primary advocate.
• The Realities of Publishing: Both hosts emphasize the frequent disconnect between authors' expectations and the business-focused decisions of publishers. They highlight the importance of managing realistic expectations, as publishers can only do so much for each title.
• Navigating Challenges: Advice on recognizing red flags, such as slow response times or lack of feedback, and leveraging support from literary agents to push back and secure necessary attention for one's work.
• The Value of Self-Advocacy: Tips on self-promotion and assertiveness in the publishing process, encouraging authors to view their book as a product that they need to actively support.
• Considering Alternatives: For authors who feel unsupported, self-publishing is explored as a viable option, especially when traditional publishing fails to provide adequate resources or guidance.

Conclusion

Beth and Lisa underscore that authors must take an active role in their publishing journey, stay realistic about industry limitations, and advocate persistently for their work. By understanding the industry’s constraints, authors can better navigate challenges and even consider alternative publishing routes if traditional paths fall short.

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Episode Summary:
In this episode of Writers with Wrinkles, Beth and Lisa chat with teenage literacy advocate and podcast host, E-Train, who founded E-Train Talks Inc. to combat "book deserts" and promote literacy among underrepresented communities. E-Train discusses his journey into reading advocacy, the books that inspire young readers, and the importance of diverse representation in middle-grade literature.

Guest Bio:
E-Train is a teenage literacy advocate, reading ambassador, and founder of E-Train Talks Inc., a nonprofit dedicated to promoting literacy and access to books for kids in underprivileged areas. He also hosts the E-Train Talks podcast, where he interviews authors and discusses books, aiming to spread “book joy” and support young readers.

Key Discussion Points:

• Origin Story: E-Train shares how his love of books began with family reading time, virtual library book clubs, and a 4th-grade book review project. This passion grew into a broader mission to bring books to underserved communities.
• Current Projects: E-Train is excited about speaking at the California School Library Association Conference, discussing how books can shape kids’ empathy and character.
• Trends in KidLit: E-Train highlights popular genres among young readers, including fantasy, realistic fiction, and mythology. He notes the importance of relevant themes, like social media's impact on friendships and modern bullying dynamics.
• Challenges in Middle-Grade Reading: The influence of adults in book selections can sometimes miss the mark on what truly resonates with kids. E-Train suggests that children often want more books with themes they can relate to, like friendships, crushes, and complex social interactions.
• Book Discovery: He discusses how kids find books, from school libraries to e-readers, emphasizing that teachers, librarians, and independent bookstores play crucial roles.

Conclusion:
E-Train inspires listeners to value literacy as a tool for social change and empathy building. His advocacy efforts are a call to action for aspiring authors to create books that authentically represent young readers’ lives.

Links Mentioned:

• E-Train Talks Inc.
• California School Library Association Conference
• Bookshop.org for supporting indie bookstores and finding middle-grade books.

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Episode Summary: In this episode of Writers With Wrinkles, Beth and Lisa chat with Amy Nielsen, a literary agent at Purcell Agency and a published author, about her experiences with both. Amy shares invaluable tips for querying, editing, and how to handle the ups and downs of the publishing industry.

Guest Bio: Amy Nielsen is a literary agent with Purcell Agency, specializing in young adult and picture books. A former youth librarian with nearly two decades of experience, Amy penned her debut novel, Worth It, while working at her library’s circulation desk. In addition to being an author, she is a freelance editor and a passionate advocate for helping writers polish their submissions.

Key Discussion Points:

• Amy’s journey from librarian to literary agent and author.
• How fictionalizing personal trauma when writing can create emotional distance and help the project.
• Essential do’s and don’ts of querying: research agents, follow submission guidelines, and treat rejections as passes.
• The significance of building a writing community and being a good literary citizen.
• Amy's editing process and her belief in the value of delivering polished work to agents and editors.
• Amy's free resources for self-editing, including developmental and line-editing guides available on her website.

Conclusion: Amy emphasizes perseverance in the querying process and the importance of building a support system within the writing community. She also highlights the role of agents as collaborators and champions for their authors' work. For those looking to improve their submissions, her editing resources are a must-see.

Mentioned Links:

• Editing resources: Amy's website (self-editing, developmental, and line-editing guides available)
• Twitter for updates on Amy’s query status: Amy Nielsen Twitter
• Manuscript wish list

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