If you’ve ever wondered how book packagers really work, what editors look for beyond sales numbers, or which trends will shape publishing in 2026, this week’s Writers With Wrinkles delivers exactly the kind of insider clarity writers cra…
In this bonus episode of Writers With Wrinkles, Lisa and I dig into the first page of a brand-new upper middle grade fantasy, Kiki Won’t Be Goddess of the Underworld. If you're revising your opening chapters, trying to strengthen your characte…
Every once in a while a topic sweeps through the writing community with enough force that it stops us mid-scroll. Lately, that topic has been the growing concern about how the publishing industry treats debut and midlist authors—and whether th…
Middle grade readers are living in a complicated world. They’re navigating big feelings, uncertainty, and a landscape full of noise and screens. But if there’s one thing today’s kids want from their books—and Adam Rosenbaum s…
In this episode of Writers With Wrinkles, Beth and Lisa sit down with Alison Romig, Associate Editor at Delacorte Press, to talk about what editors really look for when reviewing submissions. From crafting irresistible first pages to choosing the ri…
Want to watch the video? Click here. In this Ask Beth & Lisa episode of Writers With Wrinkles, Beth McMullen and Lisa Schmid offer honest, constructive feedback on two listener-submitted first pages—one a rom-com set in Prague, the o…
🎧 Episode Summary In this episode of Writers With Wrinkles, literary agent Leslie Zampetti returns to discuss what really makes a lasting, successful author-agent relationship. From how to spot red flags to tips on pivoting your writing car…
n this Ask Beth & Lisa episode of Writers With Wrinkles, cohosts Beth McMullen and Lisa Schmid open up about their latest writing challenges while tackling some urgent industry issues. From overlooked copyrights and AI lawsuits to trademark use …
In this episode of Writers With Wrinkles, Beth McMullen and Lisa Schmid chat with literary agent Sheyla Knigge of Highline Literary Collective about what makes a strong, lasting author-agent partnership. Sheyla shares her personal path into publishi…
In this episode of Writers With Wrinkles, we dive into the world of self-publishing adult fiction. Authors Barb Hopkins and Kelly Garcia share how they turned frustration with traditional publishing into indie success, building their paranormal myst…
Episode Summary:In this “Ask Beth & Lisa” episode of Writers with Wrinkles, Beth McMullen steps into the guest seat to discuss what book coaching really is and how it helps writers get submission-ready. Lisa dives into the emotional …
Episode Summary:In this insightful episode of Writers With Wrinkles, literary agent and author Joyce Sweeney shares her perspective on the challenges and possibilities within the world of traditional publishing. From query red flags to the resilienc…
In this Ask Beth & Lisa episode, the hosts tackle one of the most talked-about subjects in publishing: artificial intelligence. They share how writers can ethically and effectively incorporate AI into their creative process without compromising …
Episode Summary In this episode of Writers With Wrinkles, professional editor Joel Brigham returns to deliver a revision roadmap for writers ready to transform rough drafts into submission-ready manuscripts. Packed with actionable tips, this episod…
Episode Summary In this episode of Writers With Wrinkles, Beth and Lisa are joined by developmental editor and writing coach Joel Brigham. He delivers a pep talk packed with craft tips, mindset shifts, and hard-earned wisdom to help writers push th…
Episode Summary:In this “Ask Beth & Lisa” episode of Writers With Wrinkles, hosts Beth McMullen and Lisa Schmid answer listener questions on two critical topics: discovering your writing voice and navigating editorial feedback. With …
Episode Summary In this heartfelt episode, Beth and Lisa chat with Brian Selznick about his new YA novel Run Away With Me, a story of first love set in a nearly deserted Rome during the pandemic. Selznick shares how art, identity, and personal expe…
In this episode of Writers With Wrinkles, Beth and Lisa talk with author and literary agent Carey Blankenship-Kramer about her debut novel Ghost Scout’s Honor and the evolving challenges in the publishing industry. From query tips to industry …
📝 Blog Post: 🎧 Title: “Wine, Spite & Shelf Wars: A Writer’s Origin Story” Episode Summary:In this lively "Ask Beth & Lisa" episode of Writers With Wrinkles, co-hosts Beth McMullen and Lisa Schmid share their writing o…
Episode Summary:In this special Saturday edition of Writers With Wrinkles, Beth and Lisa field listener questions, discuss red flags when parting ways with a literary agent, and explore how external chaos seeps into writing. Beth also shares excitin…
Episode Summary In this episode of Writers With Wrinkles, Beth and Lisa sit down with award-winning children's book author, publisher, and attorney Michele McAvoy, the powerhouse behind The Little Press. Michele shares her journey from self-publish…
In this episode of Writers with Wrinkles, Beth McMullen and Lisa Schmid welcome Meg Gaertner, managing editor at North Star Editions. Meg shares expert insights on the middle grade and young adult publishing landscape, the acquisitions process, and …
Episode Summary In this Ask Beth & Lisa episode of Writers with Wrinkles, the hosts tackle one of the biggest challenges writers face—getting out of a creative rut. They share personal experiences, actionable strategies, and insights on h…
Episode SummaryIn this episode of Writers With Wrinkles, hosts Beth McMullen and Lisa Schmid sit down with Adria Goetz, a Senior Literary Agent at KT Literary, to discuss the secrets to crafting a standout query, navigating industry challenges, and …
