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In this episode, Beth and Lisa take a look at the challenges facing middle-grade publishing, from declining sales to changes in bookstore stocking strategies, that seem to be all anyone can talk about! They share insights on how aspiring authors can adapt to the shifting landscape and stand out in a saturated market.

Key Discussion Points:

• Viral Tweet and Industry Impact: Lisa’s tweet about authors leaving middle grade went viral, sparking widespread conversation and worry among aspiring authors. (00:46)
• Middle-Grade Sales Decline: Middle-grade sales dropped by 1.8 million books in the first half of 2024 compared to 2023, largely due to shifting reading habits and increased screen time among young readers. (03:02)
• Bookstore Stocking Changes: Barnes & Noble's reduction in middle-grade hardcover stocking and Ingram’s cutback on backlist titles have limited book visibility and availability. (09:53)
• Adapting as a Writer: Lisa offers actionable advice, including writing shorter middle-grade books (35,000 words), crafting a hook in the first chapter, and keeping chapters short to cater to modern attention spans. (19:16)
• The Importance of Listening to Industry Trends: Writers should pay attention to feedback from agents and editors to craft pitches that align with what the market demands. (21:15)

Beth and Lisa encourage aspiring middle-grade authors to be strategic in their approach by writing shorter, punchier books that capture attention quickly. Despite the market challenges, they emphasize that there are still opportunities for success if authors remain adaptable and smart in their storytelling.

Mentioned Links:

• Beth’s Substack on middle-grade trends (free)
• Previous episode with agent Anne Rose
• Writers with Wrinkles website

Next Episode:
On September 30th, tune in for a conversation with literary agent Cathie Hedrick-Armstrong of Marsal Lyon Literary Agency.

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In this listener Q&A episode of Writers with Wrinkles, co-hosts Beth McMullen and Lisa Schmid answer a question about juggling multiple writing projects and staying focused. They share personal approaches to managing ideas and offer advice on how to prioritize projects for aspiring authors.

Key Discussion Points

1. Handling Multiple Writing Projects: Beth and Lisa tackle a listener's question about managing various writing ideas, from picture books to novels and screenplays.
2. Beth's Approach: Beth often starts several projects and lets the most compelling one "choose her" over time. She encourages finishing at least one project to have something ready for submission.
3. Lisa's Approach: Lisa prefers to focus on a single project until it’s completed, emphasizing the importance of staying on task and submitting work consistently.
4. Managing Genre Switching: They discuss the challenges of working across different genres (e.g., picture books, novels, screenplays) and the importance of mastering the specific skills required for each.
5. Building Community: Beth and Lisa highlight the importance of not “pulling up the ladder” once you’ve achieved success, encouraging writers to lift others up as they advance in their careers.

This episode dives into the challenges of managing multiple writing ideas and staying focused. Whether you’re a multitasker like Beth or laser-focused like Lisa, the key takeaway is the importance of finishing projects and supporting fellow writers.

To Send Us A Question

• Visit this page on our website
• scroll back to the top of these notes and use the 'Send Us a Text' link

Mentioned Links

• Beth McMullen's Substack for her Accountability Group
• Lisa Schmid’s book Hart & Souls available at bookstores and libraries.

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In this episode of Writers With Wrinkles, Beth and Lisa welcome literary agent and author Ann Rose to discuss the state of the publishing industry, what makes a debut novel stand out, and how to balance writing for the heart and the market.

Guest Bio:

Ann Rose is a literary agent at Tobias Literary Agency and an author of young adult novels under the pen name A.M. Rose. With a passion for storytelling, she champions books with strong voices and unique concepts. Ann's latest book, The Seemingly Impossible Love Life of Amanda Dean, is set to release on September 17th.

Key Discussion Points:

• Publishing Market Changes: Ann discusses how shifts in how Barnes & Noble stocks books have impacted the middle grade and YA markets.
• Oversaturation in Publishing: The importance of distinguishing a debut novel in a crowded market and the role of reading debut works in your genre.
• Horror Genre’s Rise: Ann highlights the growing popularity of horror as a genre, particularly for its ability to address complex issues in a non-didactic way.
• Balancing Heart and Market: Ann shares insights on writing from the heart while ensuring your story stands out in the current market.
• What Agents Look For: Ann explains what catches her eye in submissions, including strong voice, innovative concepts, and stories that offer a fresh take on familiar tropes.

Conclusion:

Ann Rose provides actionable advice for aspiring authors on how to navigate the competitive publishing landscape, emphasizing the importance of a unique voice and understanding market trends.

Mentioned Links:

• Ann Rose’s book, The Seemingly Impossible Love Life of Amanda Dean, Releases September 17th (link placeholder).
• The Tobias Literary Agency: www.thetobiasagency.com.

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In this episode of Writers with Wrinkles, co-hosts Beth McMullen and Lisa Schmid introduce a new segment called "Ask Beth & Lisa." They jump right into the challenges of surviving the query trenches, offering practical advice on managing the emotional rollercoaster that comes with seeking literary representation.

Key Discussion Points

• Coping Strategies for Querying: Beth and Lisa share their contrasting approaches to dealing with the long waiting periods in the query process. Beth suggests immediately starting a new project to stay productive, while Lisa advocates for taking a break to decompress.
• Understanding Personal Writing Processes: Both hosts emphasize the importance of recognizing and embracing individual writing processes, whether it’s jumping into a new project or taking time off.
• Realistic Expectations: They discuss the current slow pace of the publishing industry, encouraging listeners to set realistic expectations about the timeline for responses from agents.
• Admin Work During Downtime: The episode suggests focusing on administrative tasks like building your platform, researching agents, and catching up on podcast episodes during the waiting period.
• New Segment Introduction: The episode introduces the “Ask Beth and Lisa” segment, which will be featured monthly to answer listener questions anonymously.

Conclusion
Beth and Lisa provide a mix of humor and practical advice for writers navigating the challenging and often slow query process. Listeners are encouraged to use downtime productively and to participate in the new "Ask Beth and Lisa" segment by submitting their own questions.

Mentioned Links

• Writers with Wrinkles website: writerswithwrinkles.net
• Beth McMullen’s Substack newsletter: bethmcmullenbooks.substack.com

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In this episode, Beth and Lisa chat with Rachel Stark, an editor at Disney Hyperion, discussing the state of middle grade and graphic novels, and providing insights into the publishing industry's inner workings. They also delve into how authors can craft compelling submissions and navigate the complexities of book acquisitions.

Guest Bio

Rachel Stark is an experienced editor at Disney Hyperion, known for editing award-winning books like Simon Sort of Says. They have also worked on launching Disney Hyperion's Kugali Ink imprint, which focuses on graphic novels by African creators. As a senior mentor with the Representation Matters Mentorship Program, Rachel aids people of color in gaining a foothold in the publishing industry.

Key Discussion Points

• Middle Grade and Graphic Novels: The conversation explores the growing demand for graphic novels and the fluctuating state of the middle-grade market, highlighting how these genres are impacted by current publishing trends​​ .
• Publishing Insights: Rachel explains the intricacies of the book acquisition process, including the role of profit and loss statements, marketing, and the strategic discussions that determine whether a book gets published .
• Crafting Effective Submissions: Rachel emphasizes the importance of a strong, concise pitch and identifying unique elements in a book that can make it stand out. They also discuss how to effectively communicate a book's potential to various stakeholders within a publishing house​​ .

Conclusion

The episode wraps up with a message of resilience for authors, stressing the importance of continuously writing and evolving one's craft. Rachel provides encouragement by noting that despite market challenges, there is always a place for well-crafted and meaningful stories .

Links Mentioned

• Visit the Writers With Wrinkles blog for more information about Rachel Stark and this episode.
• Cheryl Klein's Mystery Maps
• Here Lies a Vengeful Bitch, by Codie Crowley

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(PLEASE NOTE: All comments and opinions in this podcast are strictly Alonzo's own.)

In this episode, co-hosts Beth McMullen and Lisa Schmidt interview Alonzo Fuller, a marketing specialist for children's books at Andrews McMeel Publishing. They discuss marketing strategies, advice for introverted authors, and the importance of authenticity in book promotion.

Guest Bio: Alonzo Fuller is a marketing specialist at Andrews McMeel Publishing, focusing on children's books. With experience in sports, entertainment, and automotive industries, Alonzo brings a wealth of knowledge to the field of book marketing. Currently residing in Kansas City, Missouri, he is passionate about helping authors connect with their audience.

Key Discussion Points:

• Marketing for Children's Books: Alonzo shares his experiences and strategies in marketing children's books, emphasizing the importance of engaging content and authentic connections with readers.
• Advice for Introverted Authors: Practical tips for authors who struggle with self-promotion, including asking for help, staying true to their voice, and leveraging their networks.
• Importance of Authenticity: The discussion highlights how authenticity in marketing efforts can build stronger connections with readers and contribute to long-term success.
• Social Media and Content: While social media presence is beneficial, Alonzo stresses that the quality of the content remains the most crucial factor in engaging readers.
• Common Marketing Mistakes: Alonzo points out that many authors lose sight of their original objectives and focus too much on sales, which can detract from the quality of their content.

Conclusion: The episode concludes with Alonzo encouraging authors to stay authentic, seek help when needed, and maintain a clear focus on their objectives. His insights into the marketing landscape offer valuable guidance for authors at all stages of their careers.

Mentioned Links:

• Buy Hart & Souls
• Lisa Schmid's interview with Carly West
• Andrews McMeel Publishing: Official Website

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Episode Summary

Beth and Lisa discuss their summer activities and insights from the ALA conference, emphasizing the need for shorter middle-grade books and adaptability in writing. They also announce changes to their podcast format for improved content quality.

Key Discussion Points

1. Summer Vacation Reflections: Beth and Lisa reminisce about their childhood summer vacations and discuss how the tradition of summer vacation reports in school can be exclusionary.
2. ALA Conference Insights: Lisa shares her experience at the ALA conference, highlighting the rejuvenating atmosphere and the importance of networking with librarians, editors, and fellow authors.
3. Trends in Middle-Grade Fiction: The demand for shorter middle-grade books (around 35,000-40,000 words) and the increasing inclusion of illustrations to cater to shorter attention spans.
4. Importance of Adaptability in Writing: The necessity for authors to stay updated with current trends, listen to feedback from beta readers and industry professionals, and adapt their writing accordingly.
5. Podcast Updates: The podcast will now feature two episodes per month focusing on quality content, including interviews with industry professionals and craft-focused episodes.

Conclusion

Beth and Lisa emphasize the importance of adapting to industry trends and listening to feedback to succeed in writing. They announce changes to their podcast format to ensure high-quality content and share valuable insights from the ALA conference.

Mentioned Links

• Hart & Souls by Lisa Schmid - Pre-order from B&N

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Episode Summary:

Hannah Kimber, associate editor at Andrews McMeel Publishing, shares insights on making book submissions stand out and the detailed acquisitions process. She emphasizes the importance of sensitivity readers, understanding market trends, and open communication between authors and editors.

Guest Bio:

Hannah Kimber is an associate editor of children's books at Andrews McMeel Publishing. She acquires middle grade graphic novels and prose, as well as some young adult literature, with a special interest in light fantasy, light horror, and slice of life friendship stories. When not working, she enjoys reading, rock climbing, hiking, and running.

Key Discussion Points:

• ALA Conference: Discussion about missing the American Library Association (ALA) conference and the emotional experiences associated with it.
• Book Submissions: Advice on making book submissions stand out, including having a concise, attention-grabbing synopsis and a well-organized proposal document.
• Acquisitions Process: Overview of the acquisitions process, from initial submission review to the final deal, highlighting the importance of research, comparative titles, and strategy.
• Sensitivity and Authenticity: Emphasis on the importance of sensitivity readers and authentic representation in children's books.
• Trends in Publishing: Observations on identifying upcoming trends and the importance of understanding what engages children today.
• Practical Advice: Encouragement for authors to trust the process and communicate their strong feelings about their work.

Conclusion:

Hannah Kimber provided valuable insights into the editorial and acquisitions process at Andrews McMeel Publishing, highlighting the importance of well-prepared submissions and understanding market trends. She emphasized the role of sensitivity and authenticity in children's literature and encouraged authors to trust the publishing process while maintaining open communication with their editors.

Mentioned Links:

• Writers with Wrinkles Blog

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