From ALA Insights to Writing Trends: A Summer So Far Recap
Episode Summary
In this episode, co-hosts Beth McMullen and Lisa Schmid discuss their summer activities and key takeaways from the ALA conference. They highlight the current trends in middle-grade fiction and announce changes to the podcast format.
Key Discussion Points
- Summer Vacation Reflections: Beth and Lisa share their childhood experiences of summer vacation reports in school and how these activities could be exclusionary.
- ALA Conference Insights: Lisa describes her experience at the ALA conference as rejuvenating and inspiring. She emphasizes the importance of networking with librarians, editors, and fellow authors.
- Trends in Middle-Grade Fiction: A major takeaway from the conference was the demand for shorter middle-grade books, around 35,000-40,000 words, and the inclusion of illustrations to cater to readers with shorter attention spans.
- Importance of Adaptability in Writing: Both hosts discuss the necessity for authors to stay updated with current trends, listen to feedback from beta readers and industry professionals, and be willing to make changes to their manuscripts.
- Podcast Updates: The "Writers with Wrinkles" podcast will now feature two episodes per month focusing on quality content, including interviews with industry professionals and craft-focused episodes.
Conclusion and Takeaways
The episode underscores the need for authors to adapt to industry trends and listen to feedback to succeed in the competitive world of publishing. Key takeaways include:
- Stay Updated: Keep abreast of current trends in your genre. For middle-grade authors, this means writing shorter books with more illustrations.
- Listen to Feedback: Value the input from beta readers, editors, and other industry professionals. Their insights can significantly improve your manuscript.
- Network: Attend conferences like ALA to connect with librarians, editors, and other authors. These events provide invaluable insights and opportunities for professional growth.
- Adapt Your Writing: Be willing to make necessary changes to your manuscript to meet the demands of the market. This could be the difference between a successful submission and a rejection.
- Podcast Changes: Expect more focused and high-quality content from the "Writers with Wrinkles" podcast, with episodes dedicated to interviews with industry professionals and detailed craft discussions.
To preorder Lisa Schmid's new book Hart & Souls before the July 23rd release, visit Barnes & Noble. Don't miss out on the 25% off pre-order sale for rewards members, which ends on July 17th.
Beth McMullen
Author
Beth McMullen is the author of the Mrs. Smith’s Spy School for Girls series , the Lola Benko, Treasure Hunter series, and The Secret of the Storm series (Aladdin/S&S).
She is also the author of the Spy Mom series (Hyperion).
Beth lives in Northern California with her husband, kids, and very grumpy cats. She's obsessed with podcasts and might give up writing in order to have more time to listen. Could happen.
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