Story Physics: Reaction Beats

Story Physics: Reaction Beats

Newton’s third law says every action will have an equal but opposite reaction. This is true in stories, too … or at least it should be. How do we get to know characters, even as they flit from one conflict-ridden chase scene to the next? Through reaction beats.

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Episode 41: Jarrett J. Krosoczka, NYT Bestselling Author/Illustrator

Episode 41: Jarrett J. Krosoczka, NYT Bestselling Author/Illustrator

NYT bestselling author/illustrator Jarrett Krosoczka shares the challenges and gratifications of reaching across different age categories and the importance of illustrations in storytelling. Listen to hear his tips on writing within established franchises (like Star Wars), how to pivot a picture book idea into a graphic novel series, and memoir writing.

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Journaling to Productive First Drafts

Journaling to Productive First Drafts

In a world where life constantly competes for our time, we don’t have the luxury of writing twelve to fifteen drafts of something before we can say it’s done. We need to work smarter, not longer. We need to write productive first drafts. 

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Writing Quotes To Motivate and Inspire
Why is Strong Character Development Important?

Why is Strong Character Development Important?

Strong character development arcs make better stories. Here are some tips on writing characters that readers will connect with and root for.

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Using the Alternating Point of View

Using the Alternating Point of View

Depending on how an alternating point of view novel is handled, this choice can prove to be either a boon for the novel—a way to distinguish it from other similar ideas in the marketplace—or a confusing exercise in frustration for the reader. How can a writer use this format to strengthen their story rather than confuse their readers?

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Premise Vs Plot

Premise Vs Plot

The concept of premise vs. plot is a common stumbling block for many writers. They’ll think they have a killer idea for a manuscript lined up, but when they sit down to write, the energy fizzles out partway through. Why isn’t a great idea enough?

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Episode 36: Rob Kent, The Middle Grade Ninja

Episode 36: Rob Kent, The Middle Grade Ninja

Rob Kent, author and host of the Middle Grade Ninja podcast, joins Mary Kole to talk about his illustrious publishing career and provides valuable insights and inspiration for aspiring writers. He discusses the importance of managing expectations for success in your writing career, as well as writing for your own personal happiness.

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Writing Shy Characters

Writing Shy Characters

How do you write shy characters? Shy people often have rich inner worlds that are teeming with life; they’re just selective about who they let inside. Here are a few ways to help you show your shy character’s true nature.

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Episode 25: Leslie C. Youngblood, Author

Episode 25: Leslie C. Youngblood, Author

Leslie C. Youngblood shares her journey through her MFA program, gives tips on crafting interesting character relationships, and weighs in on one of the hottest questions for authors today: traditional or self-publishing?

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Episode 23: Jonathan Auxier, Writer of Strange Stories for Strange Kids
Raising the Stakes

Raising the Stakes

Raising the stakes is a great way to sew tension in your story, and fear of failure is something everyone can relate to. The constant battle between running toward the goal while running away from the alternative will keep readers engaged and invested in your characters. Know how to identify your stakes and when to make them bigger.

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How to Organize Your Writing

How to Organize Your Writing

If you’re a beginning writer, you may be wondering how to organize your writing. Working on a novel means you’ll have lots of bits and pieces to keep track of: character and setting notes, plot outlines, reference photos, versions of your manuscript, notes to yourself, quotes and inspiration to keep you going when the going gets tough...yikes!

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Episode 7: Jessica Brody, Author and Writing Teacher

Episode 7: Jessica Brody, Author and Writing Teacher

An interview with author and writing teacher Jessica Brody, where we discuss what makes a compelling story, how to apply story structure whether you're a plotter or pantser, and tackling large-scale revisions without ripping your hair out.

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Episode 32: J.C. Geiger, YA Author & Mixtape Creator

Episode 32: J.C. Geiger, YA Author & Mixtape Creator

Tune in for a chat with Mary Kole's long-time friend in the children's publishing space, YA Author J.C. Geiger. He tells all about how he made an epic mixtape with music no one's heard before (and met his heroes in the process), and talks about writing young adult characters, the future of post-pandemic fiction, and—of course—the power of music.

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