Craig Orback – Children’s Book Illustrator & Storytelling Through Art

Barbara Herkert on Writing Historical Picture Books, Creativity & Heronry | Northwest Book Talk

Award-winning children’s author Barbara Herkert joins Northwest Book Talk to discuss the art of writing historical and biographical picture books for young readers. Barbara shares how she uncovers hidden stories from history, turns research into engaging children’s books, and inspires creativity through storytelling. We also talk about her newest book, Heronry, publishing, school visits, and the importance of helping children connect with history, nature, and imagination.

Evan Kidwell – Fantasy, Resilience, and Timeaous Spark and the Luck Curse

Author Evan Kidwell (E. K. Kidwell) joins Northwest Book Talk to discuss writing Timeaous Spark and the Luck Curse, how fantasy helped him overcome childhood bullying, and the journey from public promise to published author. A thoughtful conversation about resilience, creativity, worldbuilding, and finding courage through storytelling.

Shirley Karr on Regency Romance, Historical Fiction, and Writing Happy Endings

Award-winning Regency romance author Shirley Karr talks with Northwest Book Talk about writing historical romance, researching Regency England, sailing on the Lady Washington, and building stories filled with humor, adventure, and emotional connection. Shirley shares her publishing journey, from selling to HarperCollins/Avon to returning as an indie author, and explains why romance remains one of publishing’s most beloved genres.

Jesse Morse | Place-Based Writing, Poetry & Creative Writing at Clark College

Poet, educator, and musician Jesse Morse discusses place-based writing, poetry, nature writing, and teaching creative writing at Clark College. In this episode of Northwest Book Talk, Jesse explores how writers can capture the spirit of a place through observation, sensory detail, and storytelling. He also shares insights into teaching poetry, balancing music and writing, and leading a workshop on place-based writing at the Northwest Book Fair & Media Fest. Perfect for writers, readers, poets, educators, and anyone inspired by the Pacific Northwest literary scene. NorthwestBookTalk.com

Michelle St. Romain — Song of Belonging & Writing Ancestry

Author Michelle St. Romain shares the story behind Song of Belonging, exploring ancestry, memory, and the creative process behind her debut novel.