In this episode of the Nonfiction Kid Lit Craft Conversations podcast, host Kirsten W. Larson interviews award-winning nonfiction author Melissa Stewart. They discuss Stewart's five kinds of nonfiction classification system, its impact on writers, educators, and publishers, and the importance of expository nonfiction. Stewart shares insights on finding the perfect hook for manuscripts, how nonfiction authors connect emotionally with their topics, and how her research process shapes engaging books for young readers. They also spotlight Stewart's new book "From BAM! to BURP," including her initial inspiration during a school visit.
00:00 Welcome to Nonfiction Kid Lit Craft Conversations
00:17 Introducing Melissa Stewart and Her Work
01:30 Exploring the Five Kinds of Nonfiction
06:25 Impact on Educators, Librarians, and Publishers
08:56 Addressing Misconceptions About Expository Literature
13:39 Emotional Connection in Nonfiction Writing
18:02 The Importance of a Strong Hook
21:05 Finding the Perfect Hook: A Journey
24:44 Staying Organized as a Prolific Author
27:20 The Phases of Research
28:40 Deciding What Stays and What Goes
31:11 Introducing 'From BAM! to Burp!'
31:47 The Hook and Approach for Complex Topics
33:52 Personifying a Carbon Atom
37:23 Trends in Children's Nonfiction
40:58 Upcoming Book: Monarch and Mourning Cloak
46:00 Final Thoughts and Advice for Writers
46:29 Conclusion and Podcast Outro
Find more resources on Melissa's website: https://melissa-stewart.com/
Kirsten's website: https://kirstenwlarson.com/
Support the podcast through our Bookshop: https://bookshop.org/shop/NonfictionKidlitPodcast
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