Radical Revision with Michelle Cusolito

Revision Magic & the Art of Critique: Tips from Michelle Cusolito | Nonfiction Kidlit Craft Conversations

🎧 Nonfiction Kidlit Craft Conversations is the podcast for children's authors who want to deepen their craft, hosted by Kirsten W. Larson, award-winning nonfiction picture book author and leading educator in children's nonfiction writing. In each episode, Kirsten interviews authors, illustrators, and editors about the craft and business of nonfiction picture books and beyond.

In this episode, Kirsten speaks with Michelle Cusolito, author of two stunning new nonfiction picture books: "Jellyfish Scientist: Maude Delap and Her Mesmerizing Medusas," illustrated by Ellen Rooney and "In the World of Whales," illustrated by Sibert honoree Jessica Lanan. In this episode, Michelle helps authors by sharing her innovative approach to revision, including:

• How she uses "magnetic poetry" techniques to reorganize text
• Why working analog (away from the computer) can unlock creativity
• The power of asking for specific feedback from critique partners
• Her unique "placeholder" technique to avoid research rabbit holes
• How structure decisions influence the entire storytelling process

Michelle offers practical wisdom on finding fresh approaches to picture book biographies, knowing when your manuscript needs more work, and developing effective critique partnerships that truly improve your writing.

Whether you're struggling with revision or looking to level up your critique group experience, this episode provides actionable techniques from a master of the craft.

Links:

Blog post about Michelle’s magnetic poetry approach: https://www.michellecusolito.com/blog/2019/7/31/magnetic-poetry-approach-to-writingrevising

Liz Lerman’s Critical Response Process: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nFugLSJX_Nc

5 Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Critiques: https://kirstenwlarson.com/2025/05/28/five-tips-for-getting-the-most-out-of-your-critiques-inspired-by-my-convo-with-author-michelle-cusolito/

Michelle’s website: https://www.michellecusolito.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mcusolito/

BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/mcusolito.bsky.social

Eight Cousin’s Bookstore: https://www.eightcousins.com

 

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