The We Make Children’s Books Podcast

(Ep 48): Becca Lee Gardner Discusses the Magic Behind 'Min the Mighty'

#StorycomicPresents #BeccaLeeGardner #MinTheMighty #DragonChampion #FantasyBooks #ChildrensLiterature #ScienceFiction #FantasyWriter #CreativeWriting #BookTalk #Dragons #YoungReaders #AdventureTales #NewReleases #AuthorsOfFantasy Host Barney Smith is excited to welcome Becca Lee Gardner, an acclaimed writer known for her prowess in comics, screenplays, and as an 8-time Honorable Mention Winner from the Writers of the Future Contest. In this episode, we delve into Becca's fascinating world of science fiction and fantasy, with a special focus on her recent hit, 'Min the Mighty: Book One of the Dragon Champion.' 'Min the Mighty' introduces us to Min, the smallest dragon in the land of Golshan, who despite her size, embarks on a grand adventure that could change the world. This story is not just about battles and prophecies; it's a heartwarming tale of courage and resilience that resonates with readers of all ages. Becca discusses the inspiration behind Min's character, the thematic elements of the novel, and gives us a peek into what the future holds for Min and the land of Golshan. Join us as Becca shares insights into her creative process and the challenges of crafting such a vibrant fantasy world. This episode is a must-watch for fans of intricate storytelling and anyone who loves a good dragon tale. Explore more about Becca and her work at Becca Lee Gardner's Official Site. Storycomic Logo designed by Gregory Giordano See more of Greg’s work at: https://www.instagram.com/gregory_c_giordano_art/ Want to start your own podcast?  Click on the link to get started: https://www.podbean.com/storycomic Follow us:  Are you curious to see the video version of this interview?  It's on our website too! www.storycomic.com www.patreon.com/storycomic [http://www.patreon.com/storycomic] www.facebook.com/storycomic1 https://www.instagram.com/storycomic/ For information on being a guest or curious to learn more about Storycomic? Contact us at info@storycomic.com  Thank you to our Founders Club Patrons, Michael Winn, Higgins802, Von Allan, Stephanie Nina Pitsirilos, Marek Bennett, Donna Carr Roberts, Andrew Gronosky, Simki Kuznick, John Holland, Maureen Devlin, and Matt & Therese. Check out their fantastic work at: https://marekbennett.com/ [https://marekbennett.com/] https://www.hexapus-ink.com/ [https://www.hexapus-ink.com/] https://www.stephanieninapitsirilos.com/ [https://www.stephanieninapitsirilos.com/] https://www.vonallan.com/ [https://www.vonallan.com/] https://higgins802.com/ [https://higgins802.com/] https://shewstone.com/ [https://shewstone.com/] https://www.simkikuznick.com/ [https://www.simkikuznick.com/] https://www.dieboldcomics.com/ [https://www.dieboldcomics.com/] https://www.maureendevlinauthor.com/ [https://www.maureendevlinauthor.com/]   Also to Michael Winn who is a member of our Founders Club!

(Ep: 47) The Creative Hammer: Ryan Drost's Vision for a New Hero

#StorycomicPresents #RyanDrost #StealthHammer #ComicCreation #SuperheroSaga #AllAgesComics #CreativeProcess #FamilyLegacy #Superpowers #ComicBookWorld #ImaginationUnleashed #NewHero #ComicArtists #SuperheroJourney #comicbookfans  Host Barney Smith is thrilled to introduce Ryan Drost, the creative force behind the captivating all-ages comic, Stealth Hammer. Drawing inspiration from a nickname given to his wife, Jami, Ryan transformed a fun idea into a richly imagined world where Jami Taylor, a college student, discovers her superpowers and embarks on a journey to uncover her family's legacy. Join us as Ryan shares the origin story of Stealth Hammer, from its conception rooted in a nickname to the development of a full-fledged superhero universe. Delve into the creative process behind building this dynamic world, the inspiration for its characters, and the exciting adventures that await Jami Taylor. Ryan's journey of bringing Stealth Hammer to life, with the help of a team of talented creators, is a testament to the power of imagination and the joy of storytelling. Discover more about Stealth Hammer and join Ryan in exploring this fun and engaging universe designed for readers of all ages at Stealth Hammer. Storycomic Logo designed by Gregory Giordano See more of Greg’s work at: https://www.instagram.com/gregory_c_giordano_art/ Want to start your own podcast?  Click on the link to get started: https://www.podbean.com/storycomic Follow us:  Are you curious to see the video version of this interview?  It's on our website too! www.storycomic.com www.patreon.com/storycomic www.facebook.com/storycomic1 https://www.instagram.com/storycomic/ For information on being a guest or curious to learn more about Storycomic? Contact us at info@storycomic.com  Thank you to our Founders Club Patrons, Michael Winn, Higgins802, Von Allan, Stephanie Nina Pitsirilos, Marek Bennett, Donna Carr Roberts, Andrew Gronosky, Simki Kuznick, John Holland, Maureen Devlin, and Matt & Therese. Check out their fantastic work at: https://marekbennett.com/ [https://marekbennett.com/] https://www.hexapus-ink.com/ [https://www.hexapus-ink.com/] https://www.stephanieninapitsirilos.com/ [https://www.stephanieninapitsirilos.com/] https://www.vonallan.com/ [https://www.vonallan.com/] https://higgins802.com/ [https://higgins802.com/] https://shewstone.com/ [https://shewstone.com/] https://www.simkikuznick.com/ [https://www.simkikuznick.com/] https://www.dieboldcomics.com/ [https://www.dieboldcomics.com/] https://www.maureendevlinauthor.com/ [https://www.maureendevlinauthor.com/] Also to Michael Winn who is a member of our Founders Club!

(Episode 46): Art, Games, and Guidance: Skirmisher's Life-Saving Book

#AmandaKahl #MichaelVarhola #SkirmisherPublishing #WarningDanger #Ukraine #LandmineAwareness #ChildrensSafety #KickstarterCampaign #BilingualEducation #CreativeHumanitarianism #ArtForACause #GamingForGood #SafetyThroughStorytelling #LifesavingLiterature In this inspiring session, we dive into their latest Kickstarter project aimed at aiding one of the most vulnerable populations affected by the ongoing war in Ukraine: children living amidst the threat of landmines and unexploded ordnance. "Warning: Danger! A Children’s Guide to Mines & Unexploded Ordnance" is a bilingual activity book developed by a dedicated team of combat veterans, game developers, and artists, including Kahl and Varhola. With guidance from Ukraine SOS and the Gnosis Project, this crucial initiative seeks to educate and protect children through engaging activities, including coloring pages and a board game, all while being accessible in both Ukrainian and English.   Storycomic Logo designed by Gregory Giordano See more of Greg’s work at: https://www.instagram.com/gregory_c_giordano_art/ Want to start your own podcast?  Click on the link to get started: https://www.podbean.com/storycomic Follow us:  Are you curious to see the video version of this interview?  It's on our website too! www.storycomic.com www.patreon.com/storycomic www.facebook.com/storycomic1 https://www.instagram.com/storycomic/ For information on being a guest or curious to learn more about Storycomic? Contact us at info@storycomic.com [info@storycomic.com] Thank you to our Founders Club Patrons, Michael Winn, Higgins802, Von Allan, Stephanie Nina Pitsirilos, Marek Bennett, Donna Carr Roberts, Andrew Gronosky, Simki Kuznick, and Matt & Therese. Check out their fantastic work at: https://marekbennett.com/ [https://marekbennett.com/] https://www.hexapus-ink.com/ [https://www.hexapus-ink.com/] https://www.stephanieninapitsirilos.com/ [https://www.stephanieninapitsirilos.com/] https://www.vonallan.com/ [https://www.vonallan.com/] https://higgins802.com/ [https://higgins802.com/] https://shewstone.com/ [https://shewstone.com/] https://www.simkikuznick.com/ [https://www.simkikuznick.com/] Also to Michael Winn who is a member of our Founders Club!

(Episode 45): Ashley Spires: Crafting Stories of Perseverance and Fun

#AshleySpires #ChildrensBooks #AuthorInterview #StorycomicPresents #KidsLiterature #Illustration #BinkyTheSpaceCat #TheMostMagnificentThing #ReadingForKids #YoungReaders #BookIllustration #CreativeWriting #Storytelling #ChildrensAuthor #inspiringstories   I am thrilled to welcome the incredibly talented Ashley Spires, a renowned author and illustrator. Ashley's work includes the best-selling book "The Most Magnificent Thing," its sequel "The Most Magnificent Idea," and the beloved "Binky The Space Cat" series, which has been adapted into an animated series on Treehouse and Netflix Canada. Her book "Small Saul" was the chosen book for the 2016 TD Grade One Giveaway. In this episode, we dive deep into the world of children's literature with Ashley. We discuss the future of children's books and explore the recurring theme of perseverance in her characters. Ashley shares her insights on the importance of writing books that treat kids as equals, avoiding condescension, and the significance of presenting fun and overcoming challenges in storytelling. Ashley, known for her love of tea, candy, and cats, also talks about her hobbies outside of writing, including yoga, jogging, and fostering orphan kittens for her local shelter. Residing just outside Vancouver, British Columbia, with her dog and numerous felines, Ashley brings a unique perspective to the world of children's literature. Join us for this enlightening conversation with Ashley Spires, as we explore the nuances of creating engaging and meaningful stories for young readers. Learn more about Ashley and her work at her website: https://www.ashleyspires.com/ Storycomic Logo designed by Gregory Giordano See more of Greg’s work at: https://www.instagram.com/gregory_c_giordano_art/ Want to start your own podcast?  Click on the link to get started: https://www.podbean.com/storycomic Follow us: Are you curious to see the video version of this interview?  It's on our website too! www.storycomic.com www.patreon.com/storycomic www.facebook.com/storycomic1 https://www.instagram.com/storycomic/ For information on being a guest or curious to learn more about Storycomic? Contact us at info@storycomic.com [info@storycomic.com]   Thank you to our Founders Club Patrons, Michael Winn, Higgins802, Von Allan, Stephanie Nina Pitsirilos, Marek Bennett, Donna Carr Roberts, Andrew Gronosky, Simki Kuznick, and Matt & Therese. Check out their fantastic work at: https://marekbennett.com/ [https://marekbennett.com/] https://www.hexapus-ink.com/ [https://www.hexapus-ink.com/] https://www.stephanieninapitsirilos.com/ [https://www.stephanieninapitsirilos.com/] https://www.vonallan.com/ [https://www.vonallan.com/] https://higgins802.com/ [https://higgins802.com/] https://shewstone.com/ [https://shewstone.com/] https://www.simkikuznick.com/ [https://www.simkikuznick.com/] Also to Michael Winn who is a member of our Founders Club!

(Episode 44): Cyndi Marko: Crafting Humor & Heart in Kids' Books

#CyndiMarko, #ChildrensBooks, #AuthorIllustrator, #KidLit, #StorycomicPresents, #SlothSleuth, #GraphicNovelsForKids, #HumorousBooks, #CreativeStorytelling, #ChildrensLiterature, #BookIllustration, #KidsReading, #AuthorInterview, #StorytellingMagic, #IllustratedBooks  In this episode, we are thrilled to have the internationally celebrated and award-winning children's book author and illustrator, Cyndi Marko. Cyndi Marko is known for her engaging and humorous children's books, which she both writes and illustrates. Born in Smithers, BC, Canada, Cyndi has spent her life immersed in the world of storytelling, drawing, and reading. Now residing in Edmonton, Alberta, she continues to create captivating stories for children, without forgetting the adults who might sneak a read too. In this episode, we delve into Cyndi's latest work, "Sloth Sleuth," a graphic novel mystery that is perfect for fans of "The Bad Guys" and "Investigators." The book features Paz, the world's smartest sloth detective, who solves crimes in her sleep on the crime-ridden island of Winklefuss. We discuss Cyndi's unique style, her approach to writing with humor and intention, and how she ensures her books are enjoyable without talking down to kids. Cyndi's passion for storytelling and her ability to have fun while creating her books are evident in her work. Join us as we explore the creative world of Cyndi Marko and her delightful characters. Learn more about Cyndi and her work at: https://www.cyndimarko.com/ Storycomic Logo designed by Gregory Giordano See more of Greg’s work at: https://www.instagram.com/gregory_c_giordano_art/ Want to start your own podcast?  Click on the link to get started: https://www.podbean.com/storycomic Follow us: Are you curious to see the video version of this interview?  It's on our website too! www.storycomic.com [http://www.storycomic.com] www.patreon.com/storycomic www.facebook.com/storycomic1 https://www.instagram.com/storycomic/ For information on being a guest or curious to learn more about Storycomic? Contact us at info@storycomic.com [info@storycomic.com] Thank you to our Founders Club Patrons, Michael Winn, Higgins802, Von Allan, Stephanie Nina Pitsirilos, Marek Bennett, Donna Carr Roberts, Andrew Gronosky, Simki Kuznick, and Matt & Therese. Check out their fantastic work at: https://marekbennett.com/ [https://marekbennett.com/] https://www.hexapus-ink.com/ [https://www.hexapus-ink.com/] https://www.stephanieninapitsirilos.com/ [https://www.stephanieninapitsirilos.com/] https://www.vonallan.com/ [https://www.vonallan.com/] https://higgins802.com/ [https://higgins802.com/] https://shewstone.com/ [https://shewstone.com/] https://www.simkikuznick.com/ [https://www.simkikuznick.com/] Also to Michael Winn who is a member of our Founders Club!