12 x 12 Picture Book Podcast

Епізоди

• 
  029 - Rainbow Arcs After Party with Daria Peoples 23.07.2026 31хв

  Do you change your writing or does your writing change you? In early 2026, Daria Peoples gave a webinar about Rainbow Arcs and plotting the internal and external arcs of your story in a way that can save you time in the drafting process and help you see holes in works-in-progress. In this episode, we talk to Daria directly after the presentation, and we dig a little deeper into some of the aspects of the webinar and give each other a little therapy along the way. Here's what you'll discover in this episode:  The power of writing—whether you get published or not Writing and illustrating without an audience Creating no matter the outcome How your writing impacts you What happens when a book resonates with your readers The responsibility of writing for children How kids get to the heart of the matter Self-care when writing and illustrating tough topics Making changes based on Daria's plot arc for internal and external emotions How other people around us can see the themes of our work before we do What's next for Daria   Links mentioned in this episode:  25% off Daria's webinar: Rainbow Arcs   Books* mentioned in this episode: This Is It by Daria Peoples Hello, Mister Blue by Daria Peoples America, My Love, America, My Heart by Daria Peoples My Love for You is the Sun by Julie Hedlund and Susan Eaddy I Got Next by Daria Peoples   Find these books and more in the 12 x 12 Bookshop!  If you enjoy the podcast, please like, subscribe, and review so other kidlit writers can find us!   Have questions for us or ideas for future episodes? Leave us a quick voicemail here.  Thank you for listening!
• 
  028 - Chiara Colombi on Why AI Can't Replace Picture Book Creators 16.07.2026 49хв

  What you need to know about AI In 2025, Chiara Colombi gave our most asked-about webinar called "What Kidlit Creators Need to Know About AI." Chiara works with an AI data privacy firm and was able to break down what we as creatives need to know about this technology to use it wisely and to protect ourselves and our work.  Now, a year later, Chiara returns to give us an update about AI and children's publishing—and it's not all bad news!  Here's what you'll discover in this episode:  Why Chiara is the perfect person to give us insight into AI from a creator's perspective How her writing led her to work in AI Why you should learn about how AI works—even if you never use it What's going on with the Anthropic AI lawsuit How AI is affecting different industries Why there are reasons for hope Publishers want human-created text and art The importance of human translators Discussions about AI at Bologna Market analysis by AI - Yes or no? Using AI in your marketing Publishing contracts and AI AI Detection Tools Used by Publishers  Links mentioned in this episode:  25% off Chiara's webinar: What Kidlit Creators Should Know About AI AI and Publishing: FAQ for Writers from Jane Friedman 023: Julie in Bologna Authors Guild AI Model Contract Clauses Books* mentioned in this episode: Rocket Ship, Solo Trip by Chiara Colombi and Scott Magoon Rocket Beams, Lunar Dreams by Chiara Colombi and Scott Magoon Your Name is a Song by Jamilah Thompkins-Bigelow and Luisa Uribe Find these books and more in the 12 x 12 Bookshop!  If you enjoy the podcast, please like, subscribe, and review so other kidlit writers can find us!   Have questions for us or ideas for future episodes? Leave us a quick voicemail here.  Thank you for listening!
• 
  027 - Kari Lavelle & Lindsay Leslie Team Up for Author Visits 09.07.2026 41хв

  You've got a friend in me! In this episode, Kelli Panique chats with Kari Lavelle (pronounced CAR-EE) and Lindsay Leslie. Their writing friendship began when they were both just starting to write picture books, bloomed as they critiqued each other's work, and continues to blossom as they do author visits together! Could having an author visit partner be the key to your success? Find out how this partnership works in today's episode.  Here's what you'll discover in this episode:  How they met and when they started writing The role their friendship played when times were tough The number one recommendation they give aspiring writers Why writing friendships are important outside of critique groups The challenge of debuting books and author visits during the pandemic What's a booking agent and how they work Determining the value of your author visit and what to offer Why they started doing author visits together How their visits work even though one writes fiction and the other writes nonfiction  How they involve the kids in their presentations What has evolved in their visits over the years The difference between presenting to younger grades versus older grades The surprising preferences of younger readers versus older readers Their tips for reigning in an excited audience Funny things that happened during author visits Their advice for writers just starting with author visits   Links mentioned in this episode:  How Now Booking Lindsay Leslie on Instagram and Bluesky Find Kari Lavelle on Instagram and Bluesky   Books* mentioned in this episode: Gus Hearts the Bus by Lindsay Leslie and Geeta Ladi So You Want to Build a Library by Lindsay Leslie and Aviel Basil Dusk Explorers by Lindsay Leslie and Ellen Rooney Butt or Face by Kari Lavelle We Move the World by Kari Lavelle and Nabi H. Ali Ode to Grapefruit: How James Earl Jones Found His Voice by Kari Lavelle and Bryan Collier   Find these books and more in the 12 x 12 Bookshop!  If you enjoy the podcast, please like, subscribe, and review so other kidlit writers can find us!   Have questions for us or ideas for future episodes? Leave us a quick voicemail here.  Thank you for listening!
• 
  026 - Does Your Picture Book Have Enough Hooks? 02.07.2026 32хв

  Hook, hook, does your book have enough hooks? In this episode, Julie gives an overview of picture book hooks and why they are so important in today's children's publishing market.   Here's what you'll discover in this episode:  The importance of having multiple hooks in your picture book manuscript The influence of the publishing market on hooks The definition of hooks in picture books Why agents and editors are looking for multiple hooks or entry points The difference between hooks and layers Are agents and editors only looking for high concept books? Kid-facing hooks vs. Adult-facing hooks Different categories of hooks in picture books Julie's Hook, Line, or Stinker workshop at Picture Book Summit 2026   Links mentioned in this episode:  Get the 12 x 12 Guide to Picture Book Hooks HERE. Get the 12 x 12 Guide to Layers in Picture Books HERE. Join Julie at the online Picture Book Summit 2026 HERE.   Books mentioned in this episode: Stalagmite and Stalactite by Drew Breckmeyer Dalmartian by Lucy Ruth Cummins   Find these books and more in the 12 x 12 Bookshop!  If you enjoy the podcast, please like, subscribe, and review so other kidlit writers can find us!   Have questions for us or ideas for future episodes? Leave us a quick voicemail here.  Thank you for listening!
• 
  025 - Debbie Davey's Self-Publishing Journey 25.06.2026 34хв

  Author Debbie Davey won a spot on the podcast by donating to Publishing for Minnesota! (Thank you, Debbie!) In this episode, Debbie shares her experience with self-publishing two picture books. Here's what you'll discover in this episode:  Why she chose to self-publish What company she used to self-publish How she sold her books Where she found her illustrator Whether or not it's okay to use AI What steps she took to find her writing voice How she funded her books The influence her dad had on her writing How she recouped her investment on her first book What she wants kids to get out of her books Reasons to self-publish vs. pursuing traditional publishing Debbie's advice to writers thinking of self-publishing What she did to get her books in bookstores and libraries How distribution works Her willingness to research and keep learning throughout the publishing process The importance of taking courses Getting feedback and revising The importance of putting the best work out there—whether self-publishing or traditionally publishing Her work in teaching English at Outschool   Books mentioned in this episode: A Walk in Town by Debbie Davey and illustrated by Diana Florescu The Holiday Stroll by Debbie Davey and illustrated by Diana Florescu Grandpa Green written and illustrated by Lane Smith Find these books and more in the 12 x 12 Bookshop!  If you enjoy the podcast, please like, subscribe, and review so other kidlit writers can find us!   Have questions for us or ideas for future episodes? Leave us a quick voicemail here.  Thank you for listening!
• 
  024 - Picture Book Summit 2026 Agents & Edtiors 18.06.2026 31хв

  The Flintstones meet the Jetsons! It's our first-ever crossover episode! The 12 x 12 Picture Book Podcast is just one of the hats that Julie Hedlund and Kelli Panique wear. A couple other hats they wear are Picture Book Summit and the Picture Book Summit Podcast. Picture Book Summit is an annual online writing conference designed specifically for picture book writers and illustrators. Everything takes place online on October 3, 2026. Early Bird Registration is open through August 27, 2026. Today, we've invited their fellow PBSummit team members, Emma Walton Hamilton and Katie Davis, to the podcast to talk about our Featured Agent and Featured Editor panels. Here's what you'll discover in this episode:  What it's like to get these agents and editors together in one (Zoom) room Tips we've learned from critique panels Things that have surprised us in previous agent and editor panels How use the information in these panels to decipher what's going on in the current picture book market What a slush pile is What an "above-the-slush-pile" opportunity is and how to get one at Picture Book Summit Why you should care about these panels even if you already have an agent How these panels can inform what project you work on next Whether agents and editors like art notes How hearing agents and editors speak helps with your market research The importance of researching agents and editors How attendees influence what we ask our panel members   The advantage of having 4 months of Summit replays Exactly how the submission opportunities work in Picture Book Summit What happens if you don't need submission opportunities right now Whether you should send one manuscript to all the editors and agents Listen to the Picture Book Summit Podcast about the 2026 Superstar Speakers here. Listen to the Picture Book Summit Podcast about the 2026 Workshops here.   Picture Book Summit 2026 takes place online on October 3, 2026. Get your ticket to Picture Book Summit 2026 today! Save $100 with Early Bird Pricing by 8/27/26. Click here!   If you enjoy the podcast, please like, subscribe, and review so other kidlit writers can find us!   Have questions for us or ideas for future episodes? Leave us a quick voicemail here.  Thank you for listening!
• 
  023 - Bologna Children's Book Fair 11.06.2026 1год 3хв

  This past April, Julie went to Italy (her favorite country) to attend The Bologna Children's Book Fair for the first time in five years. It was fantastico, stupendo, bellissima! While in the land of la dolce vita, Julie roamed the Fair with microphones and talked to other kidlit creators on the scene. Have you ever wondered whether you should attend Bologna? Take a listen and find out! So much inspiration in this episode.   Listen in to discover: What the Bologna Book Fair is (and isn't) Why Julie has attended 4 times How to approach the Fair if you go Opportunities at the Fair for illustrators and authors Interview with Sarah Baker, Executive Director of SCBWI SCBWI's presence and activities at the Fair Interview with Sara Willia, illustrator and 12 x 12 Podcast Producer Plus Sara turns the tables on Julie and asks her some questions Interview with 12 x 12 member and SCBWI volunteer Julie Blaho SCBWI's brand new Italian chapter Interview with author/illustrator Selina Alko Interview with author/illustrator Vesper Stamper Interview with comics/graphic novel agent Janna Morishima Books mentioned in this episode: Song After Song: The Musical Life of Julie Andrews, by Julie Hedlund and Ilaria Urbinati My Love For You is the Sun, by Julie Hedlund and Susan Eaddy Becca and Bubbe's Bucket List, by Laura Gehl and Sarah Baker The Ghost Train, by Ross MacKay and Sara Willia Otherwise Known as Judy The Great, by Selina Alko A Knot is Not a Tangle, by Daniel Nayeri and Vesper Stamper Pinocchio, by Carlo Collodi Other things to check out: Bologna Children's Book Fair website Kids Comics Unite SCBWI Italy Julie's Video from her 2nd Bologna Trip Grab these books and more from the 12 x 12 Bookshop.org Podcast list here. And check out our full list of books by 12 x 12 ANHPI members here. If you enjoy the podcast, please like, subscribe, and review so other kidlit writers can find us!   Have questions for us or ideas for future episodes? Leave us a quick voicemail here.  Not a member of 12 x 12 yet? Join the wait list and get a free gift. Join here. Thank you for listening! #kidlit #bolognabookfair #author #illustration
• 
  022 - Lee Wind: Allyship in the Age of Book Banning 04.06.2026 50хв

  Author and Independent Book Publishers Association (IBPA) Chief Content Officer Lee Wind has always advocated for books that help marginalized kids and teens, especially those on the LGBTQIA+ spectrum, navigate life. In this episode, he talks about his concerns, recently shared in a School Library Journal article, about the chilling effect the current book banning and censorship campaigns are having on queer stories.    Listen in to discover: How book banning conversations adopt the language of our opressors Why many teachers and librarians are afraid to bring in diverse books The national book banning bill that is making its way through Congress right now What is happening to school and library sales and how that impacts publishing decisions Finding your champions and keeping hope alive How large vs. smaller publishers promote books differently "Offering" books vs. submitting them How to be an ally How to get books into the hands of kids who need them Lee's upcoming books Overview of We Are Stronger Than Censorship (and swag!) Why writing and reading picture books is magical Celebrating Pride Month   Books mentioned in this episode: Banana Menorah by Lee Wind and Karl West If You Make a Call on a Banana Phone by Gideon Sterer and Emily Hughes Red and Green and Blue and White by Lee Wind and Paul O. Zelinsky Like That Eleanor: The Amazing Power of Being an Ally by Lee Wind and Kelly Mangan No Way, They Were Gay? by Lee Wind Love Of The Half-Eaten Peach by Lee Wind and Jieting Chan Song After Song: The Musical Life of Julie Andrews by Julie Hedlund and Ilaria Urbinati And Tango Makes Three by Justin Richardson & Peter Parnell and Henry Cole Grab these books and more from the 12 x 12 Bookshop.org Podcast list here. If you enjoy the podcast, please like, subscribe, and review so other kidlit writers can find us! Thank you for listening! #kidlit #booktok #author #queerbooksforkids #lgbtqia+books #diversebooks #writingtips #ya #mg #picturebooks #pridemonth
• 
  021 - Celebrating AANHPI Month with Carren Jao 28.05.2026 45хв

  Meet Carren Jao, one of the passionate co-leaders of the 12 x 12 Asian Native Hawaiian Pacific Islander (ANHPI) Affinity Group. Ellen Lee was unable to join us for this conversation, but please visit her website, too. Together, these women have created a warm, welcoming, educational "community within the community" in 12 x 12. Not surprisingly, many incredible picture books have been published by members of this group.   Listen in to discover: The establishment and purpose of the 12 x 12 Affinity Groups The evolution of the ANHPI Affinity group name and why it's important Carren's background in the arts and journalism, and how that connects to picture book writing How Carren and Ellen came to offer Monthly Mixers to the ANHPI Affinity Group Learning from members about switching agents mid-career Tips on executing "scrappy" book promotion ideas members have shared Carren's upcoming debut picture book, The Shape of Love Books Carren and Julie love for AANHPI month--and every month! Fighting against book bans as a community and as individuals What's next for Carren Books mentioned in this episode: The Shape of Love, by Carren Jao and Corinne Caro When A Rhino Has to Wait, by Dazzle Ng and Estrela Lourenço Take a Picture of Me, James Van Der Zee, by Andrea J. Loney and Keith Mallett A Morning With Grandpa, by Sylvia Liu and Christina Forshay Sparkles For Sunny, by Sylvia Chen and Thai My Phuong  Bing's Cherries, by Julia Kuo and Livia Blackburne Unbreakable, by Minori Tonai and Jolene Gutiérrez, and Chris Sasaki Barbed Wire Between Us, by Mia Wenjen and Violete Encarnación Amah Faraway, by Margaret Chiu Greanias and Tracy Subisak Shell Song, by Sharon Fujimoto-Johnson The Legend of Ban-Dal, by Jessica Yoon and Seo Kim Sun, Moon, and Star, by Nancy So Miller The Moon Rabbit, by Eva Wong Nava and Jason Chuang Some of Us: A Story of Citizenship and The United States, by Rajani LaRocca and Huy Vuon Lee The Power of Your Name, by Jyoti Rajan Gopal and Olivia Sua Finding Papa, by Angela Pham Krans and Thi Bui Another Word for Neighbor, by Angela Pham Krans and Thai My Phuong At The Window, by Hope Lim and Qin Leng The First Girl On Stage, by Shruthi Rao and Devika Joglekar When Science Stood Still: How S. Chandrasekhar Predicted the Existence of Black Holes, by Shruthi Rao and Srinidhi Srinivasan Gwei The Hungry Ghost, by Emmeline Lee and Basia Tran Grab these books and more from the 12 x 12 Bookshop.org Podcast list here. And check out our full list of books by 12 x 12 ANHPI members here. If you enjoy the podcast, please like, subscribe, and review so other kidlit writers can find us!  Not a member of 12 x 12 yet? Join the wait list and get a free gift. Join here. Thank you for listening! #kidlit #booktok #author #AANHPImonth   
• 
  020 - Heidi E.Y. Stemple Loves Backmatter 21.05.2026 52хв

  Award-winning children's author Heidi E.Y. Stemple joins co-hosts Julie and Kelli to celebrate her latest picture book releases and to talk about why backmatter is so important for picture books (and when it's not).     Listen in to discover: How Heidi got to 50 published books (and counting) The pressure and privilege of being Jane Yolen's daughter Why Heidi got a tattoo of her mother's signature on her right wrist The definition of picture book backmatter (and frontmatter, and marginalia)  Why backmatter should provide an entry back into the book or an exit out The do's and don'ts of crafting backmatter When additional information should go on your website or in a teacher's guide Examples of backmatter from several of Heidi and her mom's books How to decide if your book needs backmatter Why you want your backmatter to match the target age, tone, and style of your book Whether you should write the backmatter upfront or simply give possible ideas Books mentioned in this episode: Lydia Loves Bugs: A Children's Book About Insects by Heidi E.Y. Stemple and Yulia Pankratova The Poetry of Car Mechanics by Heidi E.Y. Stemple Zoey Zoombeck, Superhero by Heidi E.Y. Stemple and Alexandra Colombo Janie Writes a Play: Jane Yolen's First Great Story by Heidi E.Y. Stemple and Madelyn Goodnight She Sells Seashells: Mary Anning, an Unlikely Paleontologist by Heidi E.Y. Stemple and Emily Paik You Nest Here With Me by Jane Yolen & Heidi E.Y. Stemple and Melissa Sweet Greyling by Jane Yolen and David Ray E. Norm Moose by Heidi E.Y. Stemple and Annie Gregoire A Kite for Moon by Jane Yolen & Heidi E.Y. Stemple and Matt Phelan How To Get Your Octopus to School by Becky Scharnhorst and Jaclyn Sinquette Over, Bear! Under, Where? by Julie Hedlund and Michael Slack Yuck, You Suck! Poems About Animals That Sip, Slurp, Suck by Jane Yolen & Heidi E.Y. Stemple and Eugenia Nobati Eek, You Reek! Poems About Animals That Stink, Stank, Stunk by Jane Yolen & Heidi E.Y. Stemple and Eugenia Nobati La Princesa and The Pea by Susan Middleton Elya and Juana Martinez Neal Butt or Face by Kari Lavelle Grab these books and more from the 12 x 12 Bookshop.org Podcast list here. Listeners who want more from Heidi on Backmatter can get 25% off her webinar, Backmatter Matters at 12x12challenge.com/heidi. If you enjoy the podcast, please like, subscribe, and review so other kidlit writers can find us! Thank you for listening!      
• 
  019 - Jorjeana Marie: Improv for Writers 14.05.2026 49хв

  Meet stand-up comedian, actress, TV writer, audiobook narrator, and picture book author Jorjeana Marie, here on the 12 x 12 Picture Book Writing Podcast to discuss using improv techniques to write humorous, character-driven picture books. Jorjeana shares her background and why she's drawn to picture books through character, heart, and humor, then outlines key improv "rules" and games she applies to writing. She talks about her inspiration for writing the book, IMPROV FOR WRITERS, which Julie tested out before this episode.   Listen in to discover: What draws someone as accomplished as Jorjeana Marie to 12 x 12 Jorjeana's dedication to writing picture books Why picture books (and all books) are critical for children An overview of the "rules" of Improv and how they can be adapted for writing The benefit of the "Yes, and" game in both improv and writing Why listening and staying present is a crucial piece of the writing puzzle The importance of committing to whatever you are creating Julie's experience playing some of the improv games from the book The difference between writing prompts and improv games How to use improv games to write funny picture books Why the best comedy (and humorous picture books) is layered Jorjeana demonstrating improv techniques live The connection between poetry and improv Books mentioned in this episode: Improv for Writers: 10 Secrets to Help Novelists and Screenwriters Bypass Writer's Block and Generate Infinite Ideas by Jorjeana Marie Over, Bear! Under, Where? by Julie Hedlund and Michael Slack Grab these books and more from the 12 x 12 Bookshop.org Podcast list here. Julie is offering listeners 25% off her webinar, Cooking Up Funny Picture Books. If you enjoy the podcast, please like, subscribe, and review so other kidlit writers can find us! Thank you for listening! #kidlit #booktok #author #writingtipsforbeginners #writingtips #ya #mg #picturebooks #improv #humor  
• 
  018 - Julie Travels Down Under 07.05.2026 46хв

  G'day, Mates! Our fearless leader, Julie Hedlund, recently returned from a month down under in Australia. Of course, there were stunning beaches and beautiful sights to see, but what we really want the tea on are the bookshops, libraries, and other fun literary adventures! (Seriously!) Julie discovered a vibrant book scene in Sydney, and she's ready to dish. Listen in to discover: What took Julie to Australia Who she met while she was there Why we say you're never alone as a 12 x 12 member How submissions to Australian publishers work The differences she noticed between the Australian and the North American kidlit markets Meeting the local SCBWI RA The Library of New South Wales Literary icon Pamela Allen How travel inspires creativity Picture book topics and trends in Australia The interactive Pamela Allen museum exhibit A read-aloud of Who Sank the Boat? by Pamela Allen The literary field trip to a winery-restaurant-bookstore Her visit to P.L. Travers' house and the Mary Poppins statue Which American authors' books she saw in Australian bookstores   Books by authors mentioned in this episode*: Who Sank the Boat? by Pamela Allen The Best Rangoli Ever by Sheena Garg Gapagap by Sheena Garg Boy in the Big Blue Glasses by Susanne Gervay and Marjorie Crosby-Fairall Ships in the Field by Susanne Gervay and Anna Pignataro Time for Bed by Mem Fox and Jane Dyer Possum Magic by Mem Fox and Julie Vivas Ten Little Fingers and Ten Little Toes by Mem Fox and Helen Oxenbury Whoever You Are by Mem Fox and Leslie Staub I'm an Immigrant Too! by Mem Fox and Ronojoy Ghosh The Future Book by Mac Barnett and Shawn Harris   Special thanks to Karen Henricks, Susanne Gervay, Sheena Garg, and Karen Robertson! If you enjoy the podcast, please like, subscribe, and review so other kidlit writers can find us! Thank you for listening!
• 
  017 - Rajani LaRocca: Writing Fueled by Joy 30.04.2026 46хв

  Inspired by Joy in Storytelling Newbery Award-Winning Rajani LaRocca shares personal insights into her writing, including when she started writing, when she came back to it, what she loves about writing in different genres, and how joy fuels her creative endeavors. Listen in to discover: The original spark for her picture book SOME OF US The importance of sharing our citizenship stories. Surprising things she learned while writing this book. How kids respond to SOME OF US. Her inspiration for A VACCINE IS LIKE A MEMORY. How she balances her work as a physician with her work as an author. How being in community inspired her to write The struggle to write when times are tough The gift of giving your manuscripts time to sit If Rajani has a favorite among her books The different genres she has written What children say to her about her books   Books mentioned in this episode*: Some of Us by Rajani LaRocca and Huy Voun Lee A Vaccine is Like a Memory by Rajani LaRocca and Kathleen Marcottte Seven Golden Rings by Rajani LaRocca and Archana Sreenivasan Where Three Oceans Meet by Rajani LaRocca and Archana Sreenivasan Summer is for Cousins by Rajani LaRocca and Abhi Alwar Fall is for Beginnings by Rajani LaRocca and Abhi Alwar Your One and Only Heart by Rajani LaRocca and Lauren Paige Conrad Red, White, and Whole by Rajani LaRocca Midsummer's Mayhem by Rajani LaRocca Random Body Parts: Gross Anatomy Riddles in Verse by Leslie Bulion and Mike Lowery We Are the Light by Rajani LaRocca and Sayan Mukherjee Vibhi and the Voice by Rajani LaRocca and Cindy Derby Such Great Heights by Rajani LaRocca   Get special deals on Rajani's past 12 x 12 webinars:  Rock Your Revision for 25% off Rhyming vs. Lyrical: When and How (and Why) to Use Each for 25% off Get them both in a special bundle for 40% off!   If you enjoy the podcast, please like, subscribe, and review so other kidlit writers can find us! Thank you for listening!
• 
  016 - Keila Dawson: No Poem Too Small 23.04.2026 41хв

  Keila V. Dawson has partnered with fellow creatives Jeanette Bradley and Lindsay Metcalf to tell the stories of young activists through the power of poetry. No Voice Too Small, No World Too Big, and No Brain The Same feature kids and teens making a difference for our planet. Keila and her team picked a different poet to celebrate this extraordinary individuals and the results are incredibly moving. (And we learned so many new things!)  A poem may seem like a quiet way to express oneself, but in the hands of these talented writers, the poems in this series of books speak up in ways you won't forget any time soon. Listen in to discover: Where the original idea for these poetry anthologies came from The influence her work as an educator, activist, and genealogist had on this project How they sold the first book on proposal The process used for matching poets to their subjects in each book How they ended up with different types of poems in each book The design of each page and it houses the poem, a sidebar of more biographical information, and a quote from each subject The types of backmatter included—from a glossary to types of poems to author bios Additional facts the illustrations provide How the sequels came to be What they hope kids get out of these books  A peek at a poem in the newest book in the series  How to be included in a poem anthology Poetry resources  Poetry practice How Keila came to write a poem for the second book The difference between a poem and a picture book   Books mentioned in this episode*: No Voice Too Small edited by Lindsay H. Metcalf, Keila V. Dawson, and Jeanette Bradley No World Too Big edited by Lindsay H. Metcalf, Keila V. Dawson, and Jeanette Bradley No Brain The Same edited by Lindsay H. Metcalf, Keila V. Dawson, and Jeanette Bradley King Cake Baby by Keila V. Dawson and Vernon Smith Yumbo Gumbo by Keila V. Dawson and Katie Crumpton Opening the Road by Keila V. Dawson and Alleanna Harris Coming in the future: How We Got Here: Conversation with United States History and Annbelle's Beignet Cafe, a sequel to Yumbo Gumbo The Rabbit Listened by Cori Doerrfeld   Get 25% off Janet Wong's Poetry in Picture Books webinar HERE. If you enjoy the podcast, please like, subscribe, and review so other kidlit writers can find us! Thank you for listening! Not a member of 12 x 12 yet? Join the wait list and get a free gift. Join here. *At no additional cost to you, 12 x 12 may earn a commission on books published through the links in this post. (Links go to Bookshop.org when available.)
• 
  015 - Michelle Cusolito: In the World of Nonfiction 16.04.2026 43хв

  Write what you love Michelle Cusolito's love for writing nonfiction picture books is palpable and, we dare say, contagious. In this episode, she generously shares her process, where her ideas have come from, and how she follows the muse—even when she's on deadline for a different project.  No matter what you write, Michelle's interview is a good reminder to write what you love... because that's when the passion shines through. Listen in to discover: Why Michelle is drawn to writing about the ocean How she came to write a latest picture book about trees (that aren't in the ocean!)  The information she gives to her illustrators (and what she leaves out) How she researches her books The importance of experiencing things firsthand when she's writing about a topic Her recommendations to writers who can't travel to do in-person research Where science is happening (Hint: it might be closer than you think!) How she organizes her research Her love of notebooks and working analog-style Nonfiction author Beth Anderson The beauty of spare text How In the World of Whales was inspired by a real-life event What made her stop everything to write the first draft  How the 12 x 12 Creativity Book Group works How to handle critiques How she was able to go on a weeks-long expedition with Woods Hole Oceanographic Institute to do research for her books Why it's important to make genuine connections as a writer   Books mentioned in this episode*: In the World of Whales by Michelle Cusolito and Jessica Lanan Flying Deep by Michelle Cusolito and Nicole Wong Diving Deep by Michelle Cusolito and Nicole Wong A Window into the Ocean Twilight Zone by Michelle Cusolito Jellyfish Scientist by Michelle Cusolito and Ellen Rooney Rooted in Wonder by Michelle Cusolito and Mayra Wright Song After Song: The Musical Life of Julie Andrews by Julie Hedlund and Ilaria Urbinati Reimagining Your Nonfiction Picture Book by Kirsten W. Larson Giant Squid by Candace Fleming and Eric Rohmann   Get 25% off Michelle Cusolito's Rigorous Research webinar (co-presented with Charlesbridge editor Karen Boss) here: www.12x12challenge.com/michelle Please note: There is a change in the sound level about halfway through the podcast. We've adjusted it as much as we can. We apologize for any inconvenience while listening. If you enjoy the podcast, please like, subscribe, and review so other kidlit writers can find us! Thank you for listening!
• 
  014 - Lisa Rogers - Poetry and Picture Book Biographies 09.04.2026 36хв

  Where Picture Book Biographies and Poetry Come Together The National Poetry Month celebration continues! 12 x 12 charter member, poet, and author Lisa Rogers shares how poetry comes into play when writing picture books—even picture book biographies. In this episode, you'll discover: What it's like to be a poet and write a picture book about a poet How she finds the emotional throughline in her stories Why she's drawn to writing about creative people The impact of writing her John Cage book in second person Why she writes picture book biographies Why she didn't give up writing picture books The steps she took to stay committed to the writing craft How she determines the stories she's meant to write Why reading and writing poetry helps with writing picture books How word choice influences her writing choices The importance of creating mental images in your stories How sounds influence her word choice   Books mentioned in this episode*: 16 Words: William Carlos Williams and "The Red Wheelbarrow" by Lisa Rogers and Chuck Groenink Beautiful Noise: The Music of John Cage by Lisa Rogers and Il Sung Na Joan Mitchell Paints a Symphony by Lisa Rogers and Stacy Innerst Woody's Words: Woodrow Wilson Rawls and Where the Red Fern Grows by Lisa Rogers and Susan Reagan Hound Won't Go by Lisa Rogers and Meg Ishihara All the Small Poems and Fourteen More by Valerie Worth and Natalie Babbitt Gnomes and Ungnomes: Poems of Hidden Creatures Ode to Grapefruit: How James Earl Jones Found His Voice by Kari Lavelle and Bryan Collier Get the 12 x 12 Poetry Playbook for Picture Book Writers HERE: https://12x12challenge.com/poetryplaybook If you enjoy the podcast, please like, subscribe, and review so other kidlit writers can find us! Thank you for listening!
• 
  013 - Renee La Tulippe - Passionate About Poetry 07.04.2026 54хв

  Let's celebrate poetry! Welcome to National Poetry Month! We begin the celebration with one of our favorite poets AND poetry teachers, author Renee LaTulippe. Renee shares why she loves poetry and how, over her career, she's worked to help others understand and use poetry techniques in their own work. In this episode, you'll discover: How Renee helped set our 12 x 12 poetry elves up for success Why Renee is so passionate about poetry What is so appealing about free verse How to make poetry exciting for anyone Enjoying poems vs. determining their symbolism What should your readers take away from your work What she loves about the craft of writing What she sets out to do (and not do) with her poetry The definition of "common measure" How she went from writing poetry anthologies to a poetry picture book to a poetry graphic novel Ways Limelight: Curtain Up on Poetry Comics could be used in Drama and English classes. The difference between a poem, an anthology of poetry in picture book form, and a poem picture book  What she's working on now   Renee LaTulippe's books*: Crab Ballet by Renee LaTulippe and Cécile Metzger Limelight: Curtain Up on Poetry Comics by Renee LaTulippe and Chuck Gonzales   Whether you adore poetry or you're afraid of it, you're bound to be inspired by this episode.   Resources mentioned in this episode:  Renee LaTulippe's Writing Lyrical and Rhyming Picture Books Bundle is now available for 25% off here Renee's Lyrical Language Lab here Renee's Story Lark Road Curriculum here Get the free poetry download here.   If you enjoy the podcast, please like, subscribe, and review so other kidlit writers can find us! Thank you for listening!
• 
  012 - Ask a Bookseller After-Party with Julie Rowan Zoch 26.03.2026 27хв

  What does a bookseller want book creators to know? Welcome to our first After-Party! After-parties will be a semi-regular feature on the 12 x 12 Picture Book Podcast, where we'll take some time after a 12 x 12 webinar to dive a little deeper into something the speaker talked about or maybe ask a few questions we didn't get to during the live webinar. Our first after-party guest is author-illustrator and bookseller Julie Rowan-Zoch. Her recent webinar, "Ask a Bookseller," is available to the public now! (Podcast listeners get 25% off! Click here.) In the webinar, Julie shared how booksellers choose books to include in their inventory, what they want book creators to know, and how you can increase your chances of booking an event—even giving us a sneak peek at their behind-the-scenes software. In this after-party, we discuss what to actually say to a bookseller when trying to book an event or pre-order campaign, and more! In this episode, you'll discover: How to approach a bookseller about hosting an event How pre-order campaigns work How far in advance should you try to schedule in-person events and pre-order campaigns How to set up a book event when you're traveling Dates and times to NOT schedule your events Do's and Don'ts of using social media to connect with bookstores How a little kindness can go a long way   Julie Rowan-Zoch's books*: Debug This Book written by Omar Abed and illustrated by Julie Rowan-Zoch I'm a Hare, So There! written and illustrated by Julie Rowan-Zoch Stopping By Jungle on a Snowy Evening written by Richard T. Morris and illustrated by Julie Rowan-Zoch Louis by Tom Lichtenheld and illustrated by Julie Rowan-Zoch Not All Sheep Are Boring by Bobby Moynihan and illustrated by Julie Rowan-Zoch You're Here! (Year-by-Year Books) by Karla Oceanak and Julie Rowan-Zoch You're One! (Year-by-Year Books) by Karla Oceanak and Julie Rowan-Zoch You're Two! (Year-by-Year Books) by Karla Oceanak and Julie Rowan-Zoch   Julie Rowan-Zoch's "Ask a Bookseller" webinar is now available for 25% off here. The bookstore Julie Rowan-Zoch talks about in this episode is Old Firehouse Books.   Not a 12 x 12 member yet? Join the newsletter to find our upcoming free events, scholarships, and sales. Click here. If you enjoy the podcast, please like, subscribe, and review so other kidlit writers can find us! Thank you for listening!   *At no additional cost to you, 12 x 12 may earn a commission on books published through the links in this post. (Links go to Bookshop.org when available.)
• 
  011 - Marcie Colleen: Writing Graphic Novels for Young Readers 19.03.2026 56хв

  Why would a picture book author write a graphic novel? Why not? Author (and Charter 12 x 12 member) Marcie Colleen shares how curiosity (and the willingness to say yes) led her to reach beyond picture books and into the world of chapter books—and most recently, graphic novels for young readers. Marcie shares her journey to writing graphic novels (even though she's not an illustrator) and what she discovered about the similarities and differences between writing picture books and graphic novels. Plus, Marcie tells us all about her new 6-week graphic novel writing course: Panel by Panel: How to Write Comics & Graphic Novels (Even If You Can't Draw!) Listen to the podcast now as Julie and Marcie reflect on friendship, writing, comics, and so much more. In this episode, you'll discover: The importance of writing friends in your writing life Where a love of storytelling and curiosity can lead Why she's written all types of kidlit from picture books to chapter books to graphic novels for young readers How to sign up for Marcie's six-week graphic novel course The similarities and differences between writing picture books and graphic novels for young readers Why the graphic novel market is so rich right now Can you write a graphic novel if you can't draw? The challenges for illustrators of graphic novels Marcie's newest graphic novel (coming in 2027) How she began writing graphic novels  The different ways advances and royalties work with different graphic novel publishers The difference between art notes in picture books and graphic novels Why reading is such an important tool in your writing toolbox The importance of finding your style How the 6-week graphic novel course is set up week-by-week Marcie's role as Dance Captain in the 12 x 12 community (including playlists!) Books mentioned: The Penguinaut by Marcie Colleen Love, Triangle by Marcie Colleen and Bob Shea Survivor Tree by Marcie Colleen and Aaron Becker The Bear's Garden by Marcie Colleen Happy Friendsgiving by Marcie Colleen and Laura Sandoval Herrera Super Happy Party Bears by Marcie Colleen Cat Ninja by Marcie Colleen, Stephanie Cooke, Steven Scott, Nick Murphy, Paul Ritchey, and Chad Thomas Kitten Ninja by Colleen AF Venable, Marcie Colleen, and Ellen Stubbings Kitten Ninja: Braver Than Ever by Colleen AF Venable, Marcie Colleen, and Ellen Stubbings Time Buddies by Matthew Cody, Colleen AF Venable, Marcie Colleen, and Chad Thomas Time Buddies: Past, Present, Hooture, Vol. 2 by Marcie Colleen, Stephanie Cooke, Nick Murphy, Paul Ritchey, and Eduardo Medeiros Go with the Flow by Karen Schneemann and Lily Williams Look On The Bright Side by Karen Schneemann and Lily Williams (the follow-up to Go with the Flow)   If you enjoy the podcast, please like, subscribe, and review so other kidlit writers can find us! Thank you for listening!
• 
  010 - A New Perspective with Kelli Panique 12.03.2026 20хв

  What's the silver lining of having a broken arm? While Julie is away, Kelli will play! Kelli is taking over the podcast today. And, just like writing, an idea starts in one place, and then life smacks you down, and you have to head in a different direction. She didn't intend to break her arm/shoulder and do an episode about it, but when life gives you lemons, make lemon drop martinis! You'll discover: How Kelli broke her arm (and still made her flight!) The good and bad of breaking your dominant hand Praise for lefties! The importance of learning something new How to apply this to writing (It all connects, we promise!) Ideas for changing up your writing routine The benefits of finding a new perspective The importance of finding a critique group The pros of adding a new critique partner Type-written vs. hand-written first drafts A challenge to write in a different genre The growth that comes along with changing things up If you enjoy the podcast, please like, subscribe, and review so other kidlit writers can find us! Thank you for listening!