Middle Grade Matters

Shannon Balloon
  • 5.0 (40)
  • BOOKS
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

On the Middle Grade Matters podcast, host Shannon Balloon talks to to authors and publishing professionals about all things middle grade. The show explores topics like the craft of writing, the journey to getting an agent and publishing a book, and why middle grade books should matter to everyone. 

  1. MAR 24

    Ep. 106: Aaron Starmer (You Are Now Old Enough to Hear This) On Writing a Book That's Weird In a Good Way

    In this episode, Aaron Starmer shares his unique journey from the travel industry to becoming a successful children's author. He discusses the evolution of his writing career, the creative process behind his new book You Are Now Old Enough to Hear This, and the quirky elements that make his stories captivating. Starmer reflects on the challenges of writing for children, the importance of editorial feedback, and his experiences as a full-time writer balancing multiple projects. He also shares insights into his future aspirations and the influence of travel on his storytelling. For bonus content and  info on upcoming episodes, subscribe to the Middle Grade Matters newsletter here: Newsletter, and follow us on Instagram, Threads, and Twitter. I love audiobooks! If you do, too, consider switching to Libro.fm, a platform that supports indy bookstores. If you're enjoying this podcast, please leave a rating and review (thank you!).

    39 min

  2. MAR 17

    Ep. 105: Jasmine Warga (The Unlikely Tale of Chase and Finnegan) on Zero Drafts and Writing From an Animal's Perspective

    Writing for children can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to middle grade novels. As a writer, you want to create stories that not only entertain but also resonate deeply with young readers. In this episode, we delve into the creative journey of bestselling author Jasmine Warga, who shares her insights on what it takes to craft engaging stories for this age group. If you're an aspiring author or a dedicated reader, this episode is for you! For bonus content and info on upcoming episodes, subscribe to the Middle Grade Matters newsletter here: Newsletter, and follow us on Instagram, Threads, and Twitter. I love audiobooks! If you do, too, consider switching to Libro.fm, a platform that supports indy bookstores. If you're enjoying this podcast, please leave a rating and review (thank you!).

    33 min

  3. MAR 3

    Ep. 104: N. West Moss (Birdy) on Finding Joy After Loss

    In this episode, author N. West Moss shares her journey to becoming a children's author, the inspiration behind her debut middle grade novel Birdie, and her writing process - including working with her editor. Discover insights on writing for young readers, late-blooming careers, and the importance of perseverance and authenticity in storytelling. For bonus content and info on upcoming episodes, subscribe to the Middle Grade Matters newsletter here: Newsletter, and follow us on Instagram, Threads, and Twitter. I love audiobooks! If you do, too, consider switching to Libro.fm, a platform that supports indy bookstores. If you're enjoying this podcast, please leave a rating and review (thank you!).

    48 min

  4. FEB 17

    Ep. 103: Beth Ferry (Growing Home) On Loving Your Own Story

    In this episode, author Beth Ferry shares her journey from writing picture books to her first middle grade novel, 'Growing Home.' She discusses its themes of home and belonging, the challenges of writing both picture books and middle grade, and the importance of loving one's own story. Beth also offers insights into her writing process, future projects, and the joy of reading, while providing valuable advice for new writers. For bonus content and info on upcoming episodes, subscribe to the Middle Grade Matters newsletter here: Newsletter, and follow us on Instagram, Threads, and Twitter. I love audiobooks! If you do, too, consider switching to Libro.fm, a platform that supports indy bookstores. If you're enjoying this podcast, please leave a rating and review (thank you!).

    45 min

  5. FEB 10

    [LISTEN AGAIN] Ep. 75: James Ponti (Part 2) (City Spies) on Writing a Bestselling Middle Grade Series

    Book 7 of James Ponti's City Spies series IS OUT TODAY!, so it's a great time to re-listen to our interview. Last week we heard part 1 and today it's part 2. In this part  we discuss his journey from screenwriting to becoming a successful author of middle-grade fiction. He shares insights into his writing process, the importance of creating relatable characters, and the joy of storytelling. James also offers valuable advice for aspiring writers, emphasizing the significance of writing daily and focusing on completion rather than perfection. For bonus content and info on upcoming episodes, subscribe to the Middle Grade Matters newsletter here: Newsletter, and follow us on Instagram, Threads, and Twitter. I love audiobooks! If you do, too, consider switching to Libro.fm, a platform that supports indy bookstores. If you're enjoying this podcast, please leave a rating and review (thank you!).

    44 min

  6. FEB 3

    [LISTEN AGAIN] Ep. 74: James Ponti (Part 1) (City Spies) on Writing a Bestselling Middle Grade Series

    Book 7 of James Ponti's City Spies series comes out February 10th, so it's a great time to re-air part 1 of our interview. James shares heartfelt stories about his teachers, particularly Mrs. White, who inspired him to become a writer. The conversation also touches on the importance of education and the impact of family on his path to success. James also discusses his journey as a writer, focusing on his experiences with the City Spies and The Sherlock Society series. He shares insights into his writing process, the challenges of balancing multiple series, and the inspiration behind his stories. Ponti emphasizes the importance of setting in his books, using real locations to enhance the narrative and engage young readers. He also explores the appeal of thrillers and mysteries, highlighting the interactive nature of these genres and his unique approach to blending different storytelling elements. For bonus content and info on upcoming episodes, subscribe to the Middle Grade Matters newsletter here: Newsletter, and follow us on Instagram, Threads, and Twitter. I love audiobooks! If you do, too, consider switching to Libro.fm, a platform that supports indy bookstores. If you're enjoying this podcast, please leave a rating and review (thank you!).

    41 min

  7. JAN 20

    Ep. 102: Simon Stephenson (The Snowman Code) on both Screenwriting and Novel Writing

    In this conversation, Simon Stephenson, a former physician turned screenwriter and author, shares his unique journey from medicine to storytelling. He discusses his early experiences in writing, which paved the way for his screenwriting career. Simon's latest work, The Snowman Code, is a middle-grade book that combines his love for storytelling with his background in medicine, focusing on a young girl named Blessing who embarks on a magical quest with a snowman. The book aims to resonate with children, offering them relatable characters and themes of resilience and humor. Simon also shares his method for writing a novel, and offers sound advice for new writers. For bonus content and info on upcoming episodes, subscribe to the Middle Grade Matters newsletter here: Newsletter, and follow us on Instagram, Threads, and Twitter. I love audiobooks! If you do, too, consider switching to Libro.fm, a platform that supports indy bookstores. If you're enjoying this podcast, please leave a rating and review (thank you!).

    38 min

  8. JAN 13

    Ep. 101: John Schu (Louder Than Hunger) on Connection and Compassion in Storytelling

    In this conversation, John Schu, a children's librarian and author, shares his journey as a reader and writer, emphasizing the importance of connection in storytelling. He discusses his latest book, Louder Than Hunger, which tackles themes of mental health and the healing power of art and music. Schu reflects on his influences, including Kate DiCamillo, Katherine Applegate, and broadway actor Idina Menzel, and offers valuable advice for aspiring writers, highlighting the significance of reading and self-compassion in the creative process. For bonus content and info on upcoming episodes, subscribe to the Middle Grade Matters newsletter here: Newsletter, and follow us on Instagram, Threads, and Twitter. I love audiobooks! If you do, too, consider switching to Libro.fm, a platform that supports indy bookstores. If you're enjoying this podcast, please leave a rating and review (thank you!).

    44 min
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Trailer

5
out of 5
40 Ratings

About

On the Middle Grade Matters podcast, host Shannon Balloon talks to to authors and publishing professionals about all things middle grade. The show explores topics like the craft of writing, the journey to getting an agent and publishing a book, and why middle grade books should matter to everyone. 

Information

  • Creator
    Shannon Balloon
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    109
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Middle Grade Matters
  • Show Website
    Middle Grade Matters

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