Adventures in the Heart of Children's Book Authors Podcast

Why Fables Still Matter: Timeless Lessons for Today's Kids

Why Fables Still Matter: Timeless Lessons for Today's Kids Patti Bonesteel, an accomplished author of six children's books, articulates her journey of writing and the profound significance it holds in her life. Central to our discussion is her book, "The Flamingo with Two Left Feet," which not only showcases her storytelling prowess but also emphasizes the themes of perseverance and self-acceptance. The narrative revolves around Fernando, a flamingo grappling with self-doubt due to his unique predicament, and his eventual realization that individual differences can be celebrated rather than shunned. We delve into the motivations behind her writing, which stem from her extensive experience as an elementary school teacher, reinforcing the notion that education can transcend traditional boundaries through literature. Patti's commitment to crafting research-based narratives that captivate young readers while imparting valuable lessons underscores her dedication to the literary craft and her desire to inspire the next generation. Throughout the episode, Bonesteel addresses the challenges of the publishing industry, specifically, the transition from independent publishing to hybrid models. Patti shares practical insights on marketing her books, underscoring the significance of community involvement and personal connections in promoting her work. By participating in school visits and book talks, she cultivates relationships with her audience, which she regards as essential for a successful authorial career. Through her narrative, she inspires aspiring authors to embrace their passion for storytelling and to remain dedicated to their craft, reinforcing the notion that children's literature can be both educational and profoundly impactful. The conversation culminates in a reflection on the essence of success in writing, where Patti expresses that the true reward lies in the joy of seeing her books come to life and the impact they have on children. Takeaways: * Patti Bonesteel emphasizes the importance of research in crafting children's stories, ensuring factual accuracy and educational value. * Her journey as a children's book author began after her retirement, motivated by a desire to continue teaching through storytelling. * The creation of her book, 'The Flamingo with Two Left Feet', was inspired by the fascinating behaviors of flamingos, particularly their mating dances. * Patti believes that humor and patience are essential qualities that resonate with children, helping them relate to her characters. * She engages with her audience through school visits, where she shares her books and encourages children to participate in storytelling. * Patti's books utilize animal perspectives to convey meaningful messages, making learning enjoyable for young readers. Links referenced in this episode: * fablesbypattibonesteel.com [https://fablesbypattibonesteel.com] * amazon.com [https://amazon.com] * barnesandnoble.com [https://barnesandnoble.com] Companies mentioned in this episode: * Amazon * Barnes and Noble * Bookside Press * Austin McCully

Can Children's Books Heal Trauma? Understanding Adverse Childhood Experiences

Episode 88 Jacqueline K. Boylan's profound work, "A Broken Twig Can Sprout," serves as the focal point of our discussion, encapsulating her journey from personal trauma to literary creation. As a children's author, Jacqueline articulates the vital message that adverse childhood experiences do not have to define one's future; rather, they can cultivate resilience and growth. Throughout the episode, we delve into Jacqueline's inspiring background, which includes overcoming significant childhood challenges, including the loss of both parents and the impact of familial abuse. Her narrative not only provides insight into her creative process but also emphasizes the therapeutic nature of writing, particularly in addressing complex themes such as trauma and recovery. As we explore the nuances of her book and her aspirations for future works, it becomes evident that Jacqueline's mission extends beyond storytelling; she aims to foster understanding and healing in young readers grappling with similar adversities. In a compelling discussion, Jacqueline K. Boylan elaborates on the inspiration behind her children’s book, "A Broken Twig Can Sprout," revealing how her personal history shaped her creative process. She articulates the pivotal moments in her life, particularly the nurturing influence of her greatgrandmother, juxtaposed against the backdrop of familial substance abuse and loss. Jacqueline describes how her foray into writing was therapeutic, stemming from a desire to communicate with her younger self and reassure her that the trauma she experienced was not her fault. The podcast explores the intricacies of her writing journey, including the challenges of publishing and marketing her book as an indie author. Jacqueline's insights into the business aspect of being a children's author are invaluable, highlighting her efforts to create a supportive community through her nonprofit organization aimed at helping children cope with trauma. The episode resonates with listeners through Jacqueline’s genuine commitment to fostering resilience in children, making it a poignant addition to the discourse on childhood trauma and healing. TAKEAWAYS: * The podcast features an insightful conversation with Jacqueline K. Boylan, author of the children's book 'A Broken Twig Can Sprout', where she shares her journey as a writer. * Jacqueline discusses the profound influence of her grandmother, who played a pivotal role in her childhood, shaping her ability to overcome adversity and trauma. * The theme of the book revolves around resilience, emphasizing that traumatic experiences do not define a child's future and that healing is possible with the right support. * Jacqueline's writing process is deeply personal, rooted in her own experiences with loss and emotional turmoil, making her work relatable to both children and adults alike. * She aims to develop a curriculum to educate adults on how to support traumatized children, underscoring the importance of understanding adverse childhood experiences. * The podcast highlights the significance of educators and caregivers in a child's life, as they can be instrumental in providing the support needed for emotional growth and recovery. LINKS REFERENCED IN THIS EPISODE: * helpmesprout.org [https://helpmesprout.org] * resiliencyhouse.org [https://resiliencyhouse.org] COMPANIES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: * Amazon * IngramSpark * Help Me Sprout * Resiliency Publishing House * Book Vault

"Why This Children's Book Author Is Having the Conversations Parents Don't Know How to Start"

Why This Children's Book Author Is Having the Conversations Parents Don't Know How to Start What happens when a child can't find themselves in the books they're handed? For Brandon D. Campbell, that question wasn't hypothetical — it was personal. Growing up in a blended family, navigating the emotional complexity of childhood, and searching for representation in literature shaped him into the author of Oh Brother, My Brother. And in a recent episode of the Adventures in the Heart of Children's Book Authors podcast, he shared why that mission matters more than ever. "Being a children's book author transcends mere writing — it's a commitment to shaping young minds and providing representation for children from diverse backgrounds." — Brandon D. Campbell Writing from the inside out Campbell's creative process begins where most writers are taught not to go: directly into their own pain. His upbringing in a blended family didn't just inspire Oh Brother, My Brother — it became the emotional foundation for every character, chapter, and question within it. He wanted young readers to open a book and finally see their own story reflected back at them. That kind of authentic representation, he argues, isn't a nice-to-have. It's a necessity for children processing feelings of neglect, abandonment, or confusion about family structures that don't fit the traditional mold. A book designed for dialogue One of the most distinctive features of Oh Brother, My Brother is its structure. Across ten chapters, Campbell doesn't just tell a story — he opens a door. Each chapter closes with reflective questions specifically designed to spark conversations between children and their parents or caregivers. The goal is to create what Campbell calls psychological safety: a space where hard feelings can finally be named and discussed without shame. In a world where parents often struggle to know how to begin those conversations, the book essentially does the heavy lifting — giving both child and adult a shared starting point. Rejection, resilience, and taking ownership Campbell's path to publication wasn't easy. Despite choosing the traditional publishing route, he faced numerous rejections — a reality familiar to countless authors but rarely discussed openly. Rather than letting the industry's gatekeeping silence his story, Campbell leaned into persistence and ownership of his narrative. His publishing journey serves as a powerful parallel to the book's own message: that your story is worth telling, even when the world initially says otherwise. Building community through storytelling What sets Campbell apart isn't just the book — it's how he's built an entire ecosystem around it. By integrating a podcast into his platform, he connects with readers, parents, educators, and fellow authors in a way that static bookselling never could. For Campbell, literature is not a monologue. It's a conversation — and he's committed to keeping it going across every platform available to him. His relationship with his illustrator reflects this same collaborative spirit. Campbell emphasizes the creative partnership as essential to the book's emotional authenticity, understanding that the visual language children experience is just as powerful as the written one. Takeaways: * Brandon D. Campbell emphasizes the importance of ownership as a children's book author, highlighting the responsibility to shape children's narratives and inspire them positively. * The inspiration for Brandon's book, 'Oh Brother, My Brother,' derives from his experiences growing up in a blended family, aiming to provide relatable characters for children facing similar situations. * Brandon discusses the significance of establishing a strong relationship with his illustrator, emphasizing the collaborative nature of creating a children's book. * His approach to writing includes reflective questions at the end of each chapter, aimed at fostering deeper conversations between children and parents, enhancing emotional connections. * The podcast highlights the entrepreneurial journey of becoming a children's book author, detailing the challenges of securing a publisher and promoting one's work effectively. * Brandon's ultimate goal is to alleviate childhood trauma through storytelling, fostering understanding and emotional growth in children from blended families. LINKS REFERENCED IN THIS EPISODE: * brandon-d-campbell.com [https://brandon-d-campbell.com] * ingramspark.com [https://ingramspark.com] * homepress.com [https://homepress.com] * substack.com [https://substack.com] * fiverr.com [https://fiverr.com] COMPANIES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: * Amazon * Ingram Sparks * Home Press * Substack

Chinese Zodiac for Kids: 12 Animals, One Powerful Story

Peter Cotton, a distinguished author of children's literature, joins us to illuminate the journey of his literary career, focusing particularly on his latest work, "What Fred the Snake and His Friends Learn about the Chinese Zodiac and the Great Race." This episode delves into Peter's evolution from a medical professor to a celebrated children's book author, sparked by the inspiration of his grandchildren and the whimsical character of Fred the Snake. We explore the profound significance of storytelling in fostering curiosity and imparting subtle lessons to young readers. Peter shares insights into the creative process behind his books, the collaboration with his illustrator, and the challenges of marketing in a saturated literary landscape. His passion for engaging the younger generation through delightful narratives and educational themes is both inspiring and instructive for aspiring authors in the realm of children's literature. Peter Cotton, a distinguished author of children's literature, joins us to illuminate the journey of his literary career, focusing particularly on his latest work, "What Fred the Snake and His Friends Learn about the Chinese Zodiac and the Great Race." This episode delves into Peter's evolution from a medical professor to a celebrated children's book author, sparked by the inspiration of his grandchildren and the whimsical character of Fred the Snake. We explore the profound significance of storytelling in fostering curiosity and imparting subtle lessons to young readers. Peter shares insights into the creative process behind his books, the collaboration with his illustrator, and the challenges of marketing in a saturated literary landscape. His passion for engaging the younger generation through delightful narratives and educational themes is both inspiring and instructive for aspiring authors in the realm of children's literature. The podcast features an insightful conversation with Peter Cotton, a distinguished author of children's literature, who delves into the genesis of his beloved character, Fred the Snake. Initially a bedtime story for his children, Fred's journey began over half a century ago. After a fortuitous accident involving an ambulance, Fred became a metaphor for resilience, ultimately blossoming into a series of ten books aimed at educating and entertaining young minds. In this episode, Peter shares the pivotal moments that inspired him to transition from a medical career to writing children's books, emphasizing the profound influence of his grandchildren on his creative process. He describes the joy he derives from engaging young audiences, illustrating how he seamlessly intertwines educational themes within whimsical narratives. Peter's latest endeavor revolves around the Chinese Zodiac, specifically the Year of the Snake, as he recounts the Great Race that shapes this traditional calendar. This exploration not only captivates young readers but also serves as an introduction to cultural concepts, fostering curiosity and understanding. In a lighthearted yet profound exchange, Peter Cotton elaborates on the thematic richness embedded within his children's books, particularly emphasizing the moral lessons that Fred the Snake embodies. The conversation navigates the delicate balance between providing entertainment and imparting life lessons, as Peter elucidates the subtle educational elements woven into his narratives. He reflects on how Fred's adventures not only entertain but also address real-world issues, from safety awareness to the significance of friendship and community. The episode culminates in a discussion about the cultural significance of the Chinese Zodiac and its relevance to contemporary audiences, fostering an appreciation for diversity in storytelling. Peter's passion for writing and his commitment to nurturing young minds through literature shine through, making this episode a compelling listen for aspiring authors and readers alike, as it encapsulates the essence of creativity, cultural exploration, and the enduring impact of children's literature. TAKEAWAYS: * The podcast features Peter Cotton, an author of ten children's books, who shares his journey into writing. * Peter's first book was inspired by a bedtime story he told his children many years ago. * The latest book, focusing on the Chinese Zodiac, was prompted by Peter's Chinese friends and the upcoming Year of the Snake. * He emphasizes the importance of engaging children through stories that entertain while providing subtle educational messages. * Peter discusses the challenges of selling children's books in a saturated market filled with competition. * He advises aspiring authors to follow their passion and not to become disheartened by initial setbacks. LINKS REFERENCED IN THIS EPISODE: * petercottentails.com [https://petercottentails.com] COMPANIES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: * Bublish * Goodnight Reads * Tidewater Creative Media

How Working With Blind Children Inspired Richard Rieman's Children's Unique Book Series

Richard Rieman's journey as a children's book author is an inspiring testament to the idea that it is never too late to pursue one's passions. In this podcast episode, we engage in a profound discussion regarding his two children's books, with particular emphasis on "The Day the Clouds Went Away." Richard elucidates the significance of crafting narratives that resonate with children while also addressing essential themes, such as the importance of clouds in our ecosystem. He shares insights into his creative process, which is deeply influenced by his experiences and desire to create accessible literature for all children, particularly those with visual impairments. Through this dialogue, we explore the intersection of storytelling, education, and advocacy, underscoring the vital role of children's literature in fostering understanding and compassion among young readers. He shares an evocative narrative of his childhood, wherein the allure of books was ignited during visits to a grand library alongside his elder sister. This formative experience not only cultivated his fervent love for literature but also set him on a trajectory toward becoming a storyteller, initially as a journalist and later as an audiobook narrator. Rieman's foray into children's literature was inspired by his volunteer endeavors with blind children, illuminating a significant gap in accessible stories for visually impaired youth. His creative vision birthed a nonprofit initiative, Imagination Storybooks, which aims to augment illustrated narratives with audio descriptions, ensuring inclusivity for all children. Through this lens, Richard aspires to craft characters that resonate without emphasizing their disabilities, such as the blind protagonist of his series, Princess Claudia. The discussion further delves into Richard's motivations and the intricate process behind developing characters like Fumbledore, the fumbling wizard, highlighting his unique approach to storytelling that intertwines humor with valuable life lessons. TAKEAWAYS: * Richard Rieman emphasizes the importance of making children's books accessible to all, including blind children, through innovative audio descriptions. * His journey into children's literature began later in life, proving it is never too late to pursue one's passion for writing. * The character of Princess Claudia is based on the author's experiences and aims to represent children with visual impairments in a positive light. * Rieman advocates for the integration of environmental themes into children's stories, subtly educating readers about the significance of nature. * The podcast highlights the role of effective marketing and personal branding in the success of a children's book author. * Richard's experience illustrates the necessity of building a supportive network and learning the business side of publishing while writing. COMPANIES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: * Learning Ally * Amazon * IngramSpark * IAPC * Jay Maletsky * Barbara Ausurek * Aflac * Kickstarter