Join host Kirsten Larson as she takes you behind the scenes of the delightful picture book Alpacas Here, Alpacas There with author Carrie Tillotson and authenticity reader Mariana Llanos. In this insightful episode of the Nonfiction Kidlit Craft Conversations Podcast, discover the crucial role of cultural authenticity in children's nonfiction and the collaborative process that brings diverse stories to life.

Learn about:

• What authenticity readers do and why they're essential for culturally accurate children's books
• How alpacas are viewed differently in the US versus their cultural significance in Peru
• The research process including connecting with experts from Peru
• The journey from first draft to book contact over a 7-year period
• How illustration choices enhance cultural representation

Whether you're a children's book author, illustrator, educator, or simply love picture books, this episode offers valuable insights into creating authentic, respectful, and engaging nonfiction for young readers.

About the Book

Alpacas Here, Alpacas There is a rhyming nonfiction picture book comparing alpacas in their native Peru and in North America, beautifully illustrated by Peruvian illustrator Elisa Chavarri and published by Beach Lane Books.

Connect with Our Guests

• Carrie Tillotson: https://carrietillotson.com
• Mariana Llanos: https://www.marianallanos.com/
• Order signed copies: Annie Bloom's Books in Portland, Oregon:https://annieblooms.com/

About the Podcast

The Nonfiction Kidlit Craft Conversations Podcast explores the art and business of children's nonfiction with today's leading authors and illustrators. Host Kirsten Larson, author of "Reimagining Your Nonfiction Picture Book," dives deep into research methods, writing techniques, and publishing insights.

Subscribe to my newsletter for new episodes and to receive transcripts at https://kirstenwlarson.com!

#ChildrensBooks #PictureBooks #KidLit #NonfictionForKids #CulturalAuthenticity #DiverseBooks #AlpacaBook #AuthorInterview #WritingForChildren #PictureBookCreation #Alpacas #PeruvianCulture #PublishingJourney #SensitivityReaders

Let's Fly: How Barrington Irving's Record-Breaking Flight Journey Became a Children's Book | Children's Nonfiction Craft

Join host Kirsten Larson as she interviews Chana Stiefel and Captain Barrington Irving about their picture book "Let's Fly: Barrington Irving's Record-Breaking Flight Around the World." Discover the craft behind adapting Barrington's incredible aviation journey from a 50,000-word expedition log to middle grade to a 1,000-word picture book that puts young readers in the co-pilot seat.

In this episode of the Nonfiction Kid Lit Craft Conversations podcast, learn about:

• The process of transforming a middle-grade biography into an engaging picture book
• How to balance technical aviation details with emotional storytelling for young readers
• Finding the perfect narrative structure and "thread" for nonfiction picture books
• The importance of mentorship in both aviation and children's storytelling
• Behind-the-scenes insights into author-illustrator collaboration

This conversation is essential listening for children's book authors, illustrators, educators, librarians, and anyone interested in aviation, STEM education, or the craft of writing compelling nonfiction for children.

Links mentioned: The book: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/709610/lets-fly-by-barrington-irving-and-chana-stiefel-illustrated-by-shamar-knight-justice/

https://chanastiefel.com

https://flyingclassroom.com

https://www.bittschool.com

Sign up for Kirsten's newsletter (to get the transcript) and to be notified about future episodes: https://kirstenwlarson.com

Keywords: children's nonfiction, picture book writing, aviation for kids, STEM education, Barrington Irving, children's book craft, nonfiction picture books, writing process, first-person narrative, author collaboration, kidlit craft, aviation education, Guinness World Record, narrative structure, author interviews

Tags #ChildrensBooks #NonfictionPictureBooks #AviationForKids #WritingCraft #STEMEducation #BarringtonIrving #KidLit #AuthorInterview #PictureBookCraft #WritingProcess #ChildrensAuthors #NonfictionWriting #GoodNightStories #ReadAloud #EducationalContent #ChildrensLiterature #BookCreation #PilotStories #DiverseBooks #AuthorCollaboration

School Visits for Children's Authors: Expert Tips with Ann Koffsky | Nonfiction Kidlit Podcast

In this episode of the Nonfiction Kidlit Craft Conversations podcast, host Kirsten Larson interviews Ann Koffsky, author and illustrator of more than 50 children's books, about how to create successful school visits and venue events.

Ann shares her expertise on planning, executing, and marketing school visits that engage young readers while helping authors build their career. Whether you're just starting out or looking to improve your existing school visit program, this conversation offers practical advice from an experienced professional.

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00 Introduction

02:20 What are school and venue visits?

04:25 Benefits of school visits for authors

09:00 Managing book sales during visits

14:00 Challenges of school visits and classroom management

15:50 Engagement strategies for different age groups

19:09 Creating takeaways and meaningful messages

22:34 Giving away materials when not everyone buys books

25.28 Marketing yourself to schools

35:44 Practical tips and things to know before you start

37:43 Where to find Ann Koffsky

FEATURED BOOKS:

• Ping Pong Shabbat: The True Story of Champion Estee Ackerman (illustrated by Abigail Rajunov)

• The Peddler and the President (illustrated by Pedro Rodriguez) RESOURCES MENTIONED:

• Imprint.com (for affordable bookmarks)

• Creating coloring pages as giveaways

• World Read Aloud Day opportunities

• BOCES (NY) and similar educational service organizations

CONNECT WITH ANN KOFFSKY:

Website: https://annkoffsky.com

Instagram: @annkoffsky

CONNECT WITH KIRSTEN LARSON:

Website: https://kirstenwlarson.com

Newsletter: http://kirstenwlarson.com

#SchoolVisits #AuthorVisits #ChildrensAuthor #KidLit #NonfictionKidlit #AuthorMarketing #TeacherResources #LibrarianResources #WritingCommunity #BookTalks #PictureBookAuthor #JewishBooks #AuthorTips #WritingAdvice