🎙️ Episode Summary:
In this bonus episode, Beth McMullen switches roles from co-host to guest to explore how to write compelling action and adventure for middle grade readers. Originally recorded for Sara Gentry's KidLit Summer Camp, this conversation is packed with practical tips and emotional insight for writers crafting page-turning stories for kids.
👩💼 Guest Bio:
Beth McMullen is the author of ten traditionally published novels, including the Mrs. Smith's Spy School for Girls and Secret of the Storm series. She is also the co-host of the Writers With Wrinkles podcast, founder of the You Can Write a Book Substack, and a certified book coach through Author Accelerator. With over 20 years in the publishing industry, Beth helps writers push past messy middles, plot holes, and self-doubt to write stories that matter.
💡 Key Discussion Points:
- Why action sequences are so vital in middle grade and how to compete with the fast-paced media kids consume.
- The importance of giving child protagonists agency—making decisions, facing consequences, and driving the story forward.
- Balancing high-octane action with emotional tension: why stakes don't always have to involve explosions.
- Removing adults from the foreground to allow young characters to lead the narrative.
- Tips for writing character-driven emotional arcs, even for pantsers.
- How to use tools like “The 7 Keys to Writing Stories Kids Can’t Put Down” to troubleshoot plot and pacing issues.
- Why voice, surprise, and emotional truth are non-negotiable for successful middle grade.
🔚 Conclusion:
Writing action for middle grade readers means understanding the emotional world of kids and blending it with immersive, high-energy storytelling. Whether you're plotting an epic fantasy or writing a fast-paced mystery, Beth’s insight offers both inspiration and actionable guidance.
🔗 Mentioned Links:
- Beth’s website: bethmcmullenbooks.com
- Substack: You Can Write a Book
- Free resource: The 7 Keys to Writing Stories Kids Can’t Put Down
- Visit solutionsforwriters.com to learn more about Sara Gentry's book coaching services and KidLit Summer Camp
Visit the Website
Writers with Wrinkles Link Tree for socials and more!
Popular Podcasts
Crime Junkie
Does hearing about a true crime case always leave you scouring the internet for the truth behind the story? Dive into your next mystery with Crime Junkie. Every Monday, join your host Ashley Flowers as she unravels all the details of infamous and underreported true crime cases with her best friend Brit Prawat. From cold cases to missing persons and heroes in our community who seek justice, Crime Junkie is your destination for theories and stories you won’t hear anywhere else. Whether you're a seasoned true crime enthusiast or new to the genre, you'll find yourself on the edge of your seat awaiting a new episode every Monday. If you can never get enough true crime... Congratulations, you’ve found your people. Follow to join a community of Crime Junkies! Crime Junkie is presented by audiochuck Media Company.
24/7 News: The Latest
The latest news in 4 minutes updated every hour, every day.
Stuff You Should Know
If you've ever wanted to know about champagne, satanism, the Stonewall Uprising, chaos theory, LSD, El Nino, true crime and Rosa Parks, then look no further. Josh and Chuck have you covered.