The We Make Children’s Books Podcast

wemakechildrensbooks

We Make Children’s Books is a podcast that invites you to step into the creative minds of children’s book authors and artists. Each episode takes listeners on a journey through the imaginative process of bringing stories to life for young readers. From the initial spark of an idea to the final illustrations, this podcast explores the unique and often surprising ways that authors and artists craft their stories. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or simply a lover of children’s literature, We Make Children’s Books offers a behind-the-scenes look at the magic that goes into creating books that inspire and delight young readers.

  1. 3d ago

    (Ep: 60) From Swamp Sounds to Graphic Novels: The Creation of Frankie Crossroads

    #FrankieCrossroads #MarkRichardLuther #IndieComics #GraphicNovels #SelfPublishing #BluesMusic #AdventureComics #YoungAdultBooks #ComicBookArtist #IndieAuthor #CreativeJourney #UpstateNewYork #ComicCon #IllustratorLife #bookseries Join us as we dive into the whimsical world of "Frankie Crossroads," a unique graphic novel series created by Mark Richard Luther. In this interview, Mark shares the origins of Frankie, a blues-loving frog from Upstate New York, and his adventures along Route 28. Discover how Mark's love for the blues and a chance encounter with a croaking frog inspired this engaging series. Learn about the self-publishing journey and what it takes to bring such a vibrant character to life, all from a one-man creative team. Don’t miss Mark’s insights into the future of Frankie Crossroads and his plans for the upcoming installments. Storycomic Logo designed by Gregory Giordano See more of Greg’s work at: https://www.instagram.com/gregory_c_giordano_art/   Want to start your own podcast?  Click on the link to get started: https://www.podbean.com/storycomic Follow us: Are you curious to see the video version of this interview?  It's on our website too! www.storycomic.com www.patreon.com/storycomic www.facebook.com/storycomic1 https://www.instagram.com/storycomic/ For information on being a guest or curious to learn more about Storycomic? Contact us at info@storycomic.com Thank you to our Founders Club Patrons, Michael Winn, Higgins802, Von Allan, Stephanie Nina Pitsirilos, Marek Bennett, Donna Carr Roberts, Andrew Gronosky, Simki Kuznick, John Holland, Maureen Devlin, and Matt & Therese. Check out their fantastic work at: https://marekbennett.com/ https://www.hexapus-ink.com/ https://www.stephanieninapitsirilos.com/ https://www.vonallan.com/ https://higgins802.com/ https://shewstone.com/ https://www.simkikuznick.com/ https://www.dieboldcomics.com/ https://www.maureendevlinauthor.com/ https://benjaminhunting.com/   Also to Michael Winn who is a member of our Founders Club!

  2. Aug 10

    (Ep: 59) From Concept to Creation: Inside Kids Comics Unite's First Anthology

    #KidsComicsUnite #PatrickLugo #ComicsAnthology #MiddleGradeReaders #ComicBookCreation #CrowdfundingComics #NewsletterMarketing #ComicBookArt #EmergingArtists #CollaborativeArt #ComicIndustry #YouthLiterature #CreativeCollaboration #Storytelling #visualstorytelling  Join us in an enlightening interview with Patrick Lugo from Kids Comics Unite as we dive into their groundbreaking project: the first-ever Kids Comics Studio Anthology. Set to captivate the hearts of middle-grade readers in Spring 2025, this anthology showcases a collaborative effort from various talented members of the Kids Comics Studio. Patrick shares insights on the creative and operational challenges of publishing an anthology, from theme selection and cover design to the nuts and bolts of crowdfunding and marketing. Discover the innovative strategies behind their opt-in email newsletter campaign and get a sneak peek into the world of collective comic creation. Storycomic Logo designed by Gregory Giordano See more of Greg’s work at: https://www.instagram.com/gregory_c_giordano_art/   Want to start your own podcast?  Click on the link to get started: https://www.podbean.com/storycomic Follow us: Are you curious to see the video version of this interview?  It's on our website too! www.storycomic.com www.patreon.com/storycomic www.facebook.com/storycomic1 https://www.instagram.com/storycomic/ For information on being a guest or curious to learn more about Storycomic? Contact us at info@storycomic.com Thank you to our Founders Club Patrons, Michael Winn, Higgins802, Von Allan, Stephanie Nina Pitsirilos, Marek Bennett, Donna Carr Roberts, Andrew Gronosky, Simki Kuznick, John Holland, Maureen Devlin, and Matt & Therese. Check out their fantastic work at: https://marekbennett.com/ https://www.hexapus-ink.com/ https://www.stephanieninapitsirilos.com/ https://www.vonallan.com/ https://higgins802.com/ https://shewstone.com/ https://www.simkikuznick.com/ https://www.dieboldcomics.com/ https://www.maureendevlinauthor.com/ https://benjaminhunting.com/   Also to Michael Winn who is a member of our Founders Club!

  3. Aug 3

    (Ep: 58) Behind the Books with Daniel Jude Miller: Inspiring the Next Generation

    #DanielJudeMiller #ChildrensBooks #AuthorInterview #Illustrator #BookCreation #Storytelling #KidsLiterature #CreativeWriting #Publishing #MonstersInManhattan #WritingTips #EducatorResources #InspiringChildren #BookDesign #LiteraryJourney Join us in this captivating interview with Daniel Jude Miller, an independent children’s author and illustrator renowned for his unique storytelling and artistic prowess. Daniel dives deep into the world of children's literature, sharing his journey from concept to creation. He discusses his popular book series like "Monsters in Manhattan" and "Halloween Boy & the Christmas Kid," and gives us a sneak peek into his creative process, including how he manages to juggle roles as an author, illustrator, designer, publisher, and marketer. Tune in to discover how Daniel inspires children and adults alike with his imaginative tales and vibrant illustrations.   Storycomic Logo designed by Gregory Giordano See more of Greg’s work at: https://www.instagram.com/gregory_c_giordano_art/   Want to start your own podcast?  Click on the link to get started: https://www.podbean.com/storycomic Follow us: Are you curious to see the video version of this interview?  It's on our website too! www.storycomic.com www.patreon.com/storycomic www.facebook.com/storycomic1 https://www.instagram.com/storycomic/ For information on being a guest or curious to learn more about Storycomic? Contact us at info@storycomic.com Thank you to our Founders Club Patrons, Michael Winn, Higgins802, Von Allan, Stephanie Nina Pitsirilos, Marek Bennett, Donna Carr Roberts, Andrew Gronosky, Simki Kuznick, John Holland, Maureen Devlin, and Matt & Therese. Check out their fantastic work at: https://marekbennett.com/ https://www.hexapus-ink.com/ https://www.stephanieninapitsirilos.com/ https://www.vonallan.com/ https://higgins802.com/ https://shewstone.com/ https://www.simkikuznick.com/ https://www.dieboldcomics.com/ https://www.maureendevlinauthor.com/ https://benjaminhunting.com/   Also to Michael Winn who is a member of our Founders Club!

  4. Jul 27

    (Ep: 57) Mystical Steampunk: The Making of CYOA Tarot Deck with Rana and Brian

    #StorycomicPresents #RanaTahir #BrianAnderson #CYOATarotDeck #Episode400 #TarotCards #SteampunkTarot #TarotDeckCreation #DiverseTarot #TarotReading #BeginnerTarot #CreativeProcess #Nostalgia #TarotArt #Chooseco #chooseyourownadventure  Join us as we delve into the mystical and creative world of tarot with Rana Tahir and Brian Anderson, the dynamic duo behind the new Choose Your Own Adventure Tarot Deck. This episode explores their unique approach to reimagining the classic tarot deck with a steampunk twist and diverse representation. Learn about their creative process, the inspiration behind the deck, and how they designed a 128-page booklet to guide beginners in tarot reading Storycomic Logo designed by Gregory Giordano See more of Greg’s work at: https://www.instagram.com/gregory_c_giordano_art/   Want to start your own podcast?  Click on the link to get started: https://www.podbean.com/storycomic   Follow us: Are you curious to see the video version of this interview?  It's on our website too! www.storycomic.com www.patreon.com/storycomic www.facebook.com/storycomic1 https://www.instagram.com/storycomic/ For information on being a guest or curious to learn more about Storycomic? Contact us at info@storycomic.com Thank you to our Founders Club Patrons, Michael Winn, Higgins802, Von Allan, Stephanie Nina Pitsirilos, Marek Bennett, Donna Carr Roberts, Andrew Gronosky, Simki Kuznick, John Holland, Maureen Devlin, and Matt & Therese. Check out their fantastic work at: https://marekbennett.com/ https://www.hexapus-ink.com/ https://www.stephanieninapitsirilos.com/ https://www.vonallan.com/ https://higgins802.com/ https://shewstone.com/ https://www.simkikuznick.com/ https://www.dieboldcomics.com/ https://www.maureendevlinauthor.com/ https://benjaminhunting.com/   Also to Michael Winn who is a member of our Founders Club!

  5. Jul 20

    (Ep: 56) Edilene Afonso-Willis: Creating a World Where Autism is Celebrated

    Today, we are honored to have Edilene Afonso-Willis, the creator of "Super A: Autism Is My Super Power." This unique affirmation coloring book is designed to empower children with autism by highlighting their unique qualities as superpowers. Join us as Edilene shares the inspiration drawn from her son’s journey and how this book aims to foster self-esteem and autism awareness among young readers. #SuperAAutismSuperPower #AutismAwareness #EdileneAfonsoWillis #AutismAcceptance #StorycomicPresents #ChildrensBooks #AutismEmpowerment #AffirmationColoringBook #Neurodiversity #InclusiveBooks   Storycomic Logo designed by Gregory Giordano See more of Greg’s work at: https://www.instagram.com/gregory_c_giordano_art/   Want to start your own podcast?  Click on the link to get started: https://www.podbean.com/storycomic   Follow us: Are you curious to see the video version of this interview?  It's on our website too! www.storycomic.com www.patreon.com/storycomic www.facebook.com/storycomic1 https://www.instagram.com/storycomic/ For information on being a guest or curious to learn more about Storycomic? Contact us at info@storycomic.com Thank you to our Founders Club Patrons, Michael Winn, Higgins802, Von Allan, Stephanie Nina Pitsirilos, Marek Bennett, Donna Carr Roberts, Andrew Gronosky, Simki Kuznick, John Holland, Maureen Devlin, and Matt & Therese. Check out their fantastic work at: https://marekbennett.com/ https://www.hexapus-ink.com/ https://www.stephanieninapitsirilos.com/ https://www.vonallan.com/ https://higgins802.com/ https://shewstone.com/ https://www.simkikuznick.com/ https://www.dieboldcomics.com/ https://www.maureendevlinauthor.com/ https://benjaminhunting.com/   Also to Michael Winn who is a member of our Founders Club!

  6. Jul 13

    (Ep: 55) How J.L. Durona Crafted a Spooky World in "The Stone Hollow Circle"!

    I'm your host Barney Smith from storycomic.com. Today, we're thrilled to have J.L. Durona with us again, discussing his latest spooky adventure in the middle-grade series, "The Stone Hollow Circle." J.L. will dive into the eerie woods of Stone Hollow, where mystery and supernatural forces collide, unraveling a tale that tests the bonds of sisterhood and bravery. Tune in as J.L. shares the inspirations behind his characters and the creepy settings that make his stories a must-read for young fans of suspense and mystery. #JLDurona #TheStoneHollowCircle #BergeSisters #MiddleGradeBooks #SpookyStories #KidLit #ChildrensLiterature #StorycomicPresents #AuthorInterview #newbookrelease  Storycomic Logo designed by Gregory Giordano See more of Greg’s work at: https://www.instagram.com/gregory_c_giordano_art/   Want to start your own podcast?  Click on the link to get started: https://www.podbean.com/storycomic   Follow us: Are you curious to see the video version of this interview?  It's on our website too! www.storycomic.com www.patreon.com/storycomic www.facebook.com/storycomic1 https://www.instagram.com/storycomic/ For information on being a guest or curious to learn more about Storycomic? Contact us at info@storycomic.com Thank you to our Founders Club Patrons, Michael Winn, Higgins802, Von Allan, Stephanie Nina Pitsirilos, Marek Bennett, Donna Carr Roberts, Andrew Gronosky, Simki Kuznick, John Holland, Maureen Devlin, and Matt & Therese. Check out their fantastic work at: https://marekbennett.com/ https://www.hexapus-ink.com/ https://www.stephanieninapitsirilos.com/ https://www.vonallan.com/ https://higgins802.com/ https://shewstone.com/ https://www.simkikuznick.com/ https://www.dieboldcomics.com/ https://www.maureendevlinauthor.com/   Also to Michael Winn who is a member of our Founders Club!

  7. Jul 6

    (Ep: 54) Uncovering the Mystical and the Medieval in Nicked by M.T. Anderson!

    I’m your host Barney Smith from storycomic.com, and today we have the pleasure of diving into the enchanting world of historical fiction with the celebrated author M. T. Anderson. In this episode, Anderson discusses his latest novel, Nicked, a genre-defying adventure that weaves together elements of humor, history, and fantasy. Set in 1087, the novel revolves around a daring heist to steal the mystical corpse of Saint Nicholas. Anderson shares insights into his creative process, the true historical events that inspired the book, and the profound themes woven throughout this raucous tale. Join us as we explore the depths of a medieval feast of a novel, filled with miracles, marvels, and a monumental quest. see all of MT's work at:  https://mtanderson.com #MTAnderson #Nicked #HistoricalFiction #MedievalHeist #SaintNicholas #BookTalk #HistoricalNovels #LiteraryFiction #NewReleases2024 #AuthorInterview #StorycomicPresents #FantasyFiction #QueerLiterature #BookLovers #ReadersOfInstagram Storycomic Logo designed by Gregory Giordano See more of Greg’s work at: https://www.instagram.com/gregory_c_giordano_art/ Want to start your own podcast?  Click on the link to get started: https://www.podbean.com/storycomic Follow us: Are you curious to see the video version of this interview?  It's on our website too! www.storycomic.com www.patreon.com/storycomic www.facebook.com/storycomic1 https://www.instagram.com/storycomic/ For information on being a guest or curious to learn more about Storycomic? Contact us at info@storycomic.com Thank you to our Founders Club Patrons, Michael Winn, Higgins802, Von Allan, Stephanie Nina Pitsirilos, Marek Bennett, Donna Carr Roberts, Andrew Gronosky, Simki Kuznick, John Holland, Maureen Devlin, and Matt & Therese. Check out their fantastic work at: https://marekbennett.com/ https://www.hexapus-ink.com/ https://www.stephanieninapitsirilos.com/ https://www.vonallan.com/ https://higgins802.com/ https://shewstone.com/ https://www.simkikuznick.com/ https://www.dieboldcomics.com/ https://www.maureendevlinauthor.com/   Also to Michael Winn who is a member of our Founders Club!

  8. Jun 29

    (Ep: 53) Sophia Brown: Spinning Tales of Grandmas and Grandkids!

    Today we're delighted to delve into the enchanting world of children's literature with the prolific author Sophia Brown. In this episode, we discuss her latest additions to the "Grandma Story Time Books: A Peanut, Popcorn, and Buddha Collection." Sophia shares her inspirations drawn from her own experiences as a grandmother, the transformative power of storytelling, and the profound connections it forges between generations. Join us as we explore how her stories, like FUN at Grandma's House and Grandma's Sweet Candy Cane Christmas Kisses, resonate with themes of family bonds and the joys of shared experiences. See all of Sophia Brown's works at: https://grandmastorytime.com #SophiaBrown #ChildrensBooks #StorytimeWithGrandma #FamilyStoryBooks #KidsBooks #GrandmasLove #PictureBooks #EarlyReaders #BookRelease2024 #AuthorInterview #StorycomicPresents #ReadingTime #Bookworms #LiteraryJourney #FamilyBonding Storycomic Logo designed by Gregory Giordano See more of Greg’s work at: https://www.instagram.com/gregory_c_giordano_art/ Want to start your own podcast?  Click on the link to get started: https://www.podbean.com/storycomic Follow us: Are you curious to see the video version of this interview?  It's on our website too! www.storycomic.com www.patreon.com/storycomic www.facebook.com/storycomic1 https://www.instagram.com/storycomic/ For information on being a guest or curious to learn more about Storycomic? Contact us at info@storycomic.com Thank you to our Founders Club Patrons, Michael Winn, Higgins802, Von Allan, Stephanie Nina Pitsirilos, Marek Bennett, Donna Carr Roberts, Andrew Gronosky, Simki Kuznick, John Holland, Maureen Devlin, and Matt & Therese. Check out their fantastic work at: https://marekbennett.com/ https://www.hexapus-ink.com/ https://www.stephanieninapitsirilos.com/ https://www.vonallan.com/ https://higgins802.com/ https://shewstone.com/ https://www.simkikuznick.com/ https://www.dieboldcomics.com/ https://www.maureendevlinauthor.com/   Also to Michael Winn who is a member of our Founders Club!

About

We Make Children’s Books is a podcast that invites you to step into the creative minds of children’s book authors and artists. Each episode takes listeners on a journey through the imaginative process of bringing stories to life for young readers. From the initial spark of an idea to the final illustrations, this podcast explores the unique and often surprising ways that authors and artists craft their stories. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or simply a lover of children’s literature, We Make Children’s Books offers a behind-the-scenes look at the magic that goes into creating books that inspire and delight young readers.