Insider Insights with Disney Hyperion Editor Rachel Stark
Episode Summary
In this episode of "Writers With Wrinkles," hosts Beth McMullen and Lisa Schmid sit down with Rachel Stark, an editor at Disney Hyperion, to discuss the evolving landscape of middle-grade and graphic novels. Rachel provides invaluable insights into what makes a book stand out in the competitive publishing industry.
Guest Bio
Rachel Stark is an editor at Disney Hyperion, where they have worked on notable titles like Simon Sort of Says, a Newbery Honor and Schneider Family Book Award Honor recipient. Rachel is also a senior mentor with the Representation Matters Mentorship Program, helping to increase diversity in publishing.
Key Discussion Points
- State of Middle Grade and Graphic Novels: Rachel explains the current trends in publishing, noting a particular interest in graphic novels and the challenges faced by middle-grade novels due to shifting market demands.
- The Acquisitions Process: The episode offers a deep dive into the acquisitions process, detailing how books are evaluated based on profitability, market fit, and internal enthusiasm. Rachel emphasizes that even well-written books may not make the cut if they don't align with market trends.
- Crafting a Compelling Submission: For aspiring authors, Rachel stresses the importance of a strong pitch that can capture an editor’s attention in just a couple of sentences. They also highlight the value of having a unique hook that sets the book apart.
Conclusion and Takeaways
Rachel concludes with advice for writers: focus on the craft and write the next book. The publishing industry is unpredictable, and the best way to navigate its ups and downs is by continually producing new work. They also encourage authors not to shy away from challenging or controversial topics, as these can provide meaningful content for young readers.
- 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
For more insights, listen to the full episode.
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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