Writing for Kids, Loving Your Readers & the Magic of a Good Book with Annie Barrows (E243)
Today, I’m joined by bestselling author Annie Barrows to talk about her journey from editor to author, why she loves writing for children, and her Stella & Marigold series, including the newest book, Past and Presents. We also talk about the joy of getting lost in a story, writing with the reader in mind, and, of course, I couldn’t let Annie go without asking about one of my favorites, The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society.
Episode Highlights:
Annie’s journey from editor to author and the moment she realized the writers were having more fun
Why she loves writing for children and believes kids are “the most interesting people on earth”
The Stella & Marigold series and writing stories that entertain and respect young readers
Why Annie believes a writer’s first loyalty should be to the reader
The pleasure of slowing down with a book and how reading can make us better writers
The joy of stepping outside yourself and living in someone else’s world through a story
The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society and why Annie believes the book continues to connect so deeply with readers
Connect with Annie:
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Books and authors mentioned in the episode:
David Copperfield by Charles Dickens
Ivy and Bean by Annie Barrows
The Best of Iggy for Annie Barrows (series for boys)
Like by Annie Barrows
The Magic Half by Annie Barrows
Indigo’s Star by Hilary Kay
Book Flight
The Penderwicks by Jeanne Birdsall (Middle Grade)
Big Red Lollipop by Rukhsana Klan, Illustrated by Sophie Blackall (Picture book)
Bog Myrtle by Sid Sharp (Fairy tale - early chapter book, read aloud)
The BFF Book Club is becoming a family affair! ❤️ This our FREE virtual book club, where we read together each month and have live author chats.
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One chapter book for growing readers
One picture book for our littlest readers
A few family conversation starters + a simple activity
Three books. One common theme.
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