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Nonfiction Kidlit Craft Conversations

Nonfiction Kidlit Craft Conversations Ep 6 with Beth Anderson -- Pacing

Master the art of crafting page-turning nonfiction picture books as author Beth Anderson reveals how she transformed the true story of America’s first female detective into a historical thriller for young readers.
Broadcast on:
07 Feb 2025

🔍 How to Write Page-Turning Nonfiction Picture Books | Writing Craft Tips with Beth Anderson

Master the art of writing gripping nonfiction picture books in this craft-focused interview with award-winning children's author Beth Anderson. Discover the behind-the-scenes process of her latest book "Hiding in Plain Sight: Kate Warne and The Race to Save Abraham Lincoln," illustrated by Sally Wern Comport (Calkins Creek).

✍️ WRITING CRAFT TECHNIQUES COVERED:

• Creating page-turning tension in nonfiction

• Writing historical events for young readers

• Balancing context and pacing in picture books

• Developing character emotions in nonfiction

• Using research to enhance storytelling

• Working with editors and illustrators

 

Perfect for nonfiction picture book writers, children's book authors, and anyone interested in writing engaging historical stories for kids. Beth shares specific examples and practical techniques you can apply to your own writing.

👉 RESOURCES MENTIONED:

Nonfiction Fest: www.nffest.com

Kirsten's "Reimagine Your Writing" Workshop: writers.kirstenwlarson.com

Beth's website: https://BethAndersonWriter.com

Free educator guide: https://bethandersonwriter.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/hiding-in-plain-sight-ed-guide.pdf

Interiority w/ Mary Kole: HTTPS://KIDLIT.COM/2017/10/23/WHAT-INTERIORITY-IS-AND-WHY-IT-MATTERS/

Psychic distance from Emma Darwin https://emmadarwin.typepad.com/thisitchofwriting/psychic-distance-what-it-is-and-how-to-use-it.html

Kirsten's website (to join newsletter for transcripts and for podcast website): https://kirstenwlarson.com

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📚 Buy "Hiding in Plain Sight": Available at all major booksellers

Master the art of crafting page-turning nonfiction picture books as author Beth Anderson reveals how she transformed the true story of America’s first female detective into a historical thriller for young readers.