Guest Post: Ann Jacobus: Critique Group Makes Frances Lee Hall’s Publishing Dream Come True

Guest Post: Ann Jacobus: Critique Group Makes Frances Lee Hall’s Publishing Dream Come True

By Ann Jacobus

It’s an unusual moment when our writing group is in full agreement. But in this case, we knew we had to bring our friend Frances Lee Hall’s wonderful middle grade story to young readers.

The question was how?

Frances Lee Hall

We had all just attended her memorial service.

Continue Reading Guest Post: Ann Jacobus: Critique Group Makes Frances Lee Hall’s Publishing Dream Come True »

Author Interview: Lamar Giles on Writing Mysteries, Diversity & His Writing Journey

Author Interview: Lamar Giles on Writing Mysteries, Diversity & His Writing Journey

By Gayleen Rabakukk

Lamar Giles’ last Cynsations visit was in 2014 as a debut author.

Since then, he’s had two novels named Edgar Award finalists by the Mystery Writers of America and helped found We Need Diverse Books.

He serves as senior vice president of fundraising for the non-profit organization dedicated to putting more books featuring diverse characters into the hands of all children.

Continue Reading Author Interview: Lamar Giles on Writing Mysteries, Diversity & His Writing Journey »

We Need Diverse Books & Children’s Book Council To Partner on Publishing Internship Program

We Need Diverse Books & Children’s Book Council To Partner on Publishing Internship Program

The Children’s Book Council (CBC), the non-profit trade association for children’s book publishers in North America, and grassroots nonprofit We Need Diverse Books™ (WNDB) today announced their partnership on educational programming and resources for interns selected for the WNDB Internship Program, launching this summer.

The program is designed to open up the children’s book publishing industry to talented job-seekers from diverse backgrounds,

Continue Reading We Need Diverse Books & Children’s Book Council To Partner on Publishing Internship Program »

2015 SCBWI Europolitan Con: Author & Diversity Advocate Marieke Nijkamp

2015 SCBWI Europolitan Con: Author & Diversity Advocate Marieke Nijkamp

By Mina Witteman

Marieke Nijkamp is a storyteller, dreamer, globe-trotter, and diversity advocate.

She holds degrees in philosophy, history, and medieval studies, and wants to grow up to be a queer time traveler.

In the midnight hours of the day, Marieke writes stories full of hope and heartbreak.

Continue Reading 2015 SCBWI Europolitan Con: Author & Diversity Advocate Marieke Nijkamp »