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Hosted by Shannon Balloon · 🇺🇸 US · EN-US · 117 episodes
Established thought leaders with verified media credentials.
On the Middle Grade Matters podcast, host Shannon Balloon talks to to authors and publishing professionals about all things middle grade. The show explores topics like the craft of writing, the journey to getting an agent and publishing a book, and why middle grade books should matter to everyone.
Shannon Balloon hosts Middle Grade Matters, a arts show with 117 episodes published.
In the world of children's literature, the path to creativity often begins in unexpected places. For Perin Gurel, it was her daughter’s whimsical story idea that sparked the creation of her own middle grade novel, Laleh
In this episode we dive into the world of writing mysteries for middle grade readers with Fleur Bradley, an author known for her engaging middle grade novels including Midnight at the Barclay Hotel and Daybreak on Raven
Writing is more than just putting words on paper. It’s a journey filled with challenges, perseverance, and growth. Many aspiring authors often wonder what it truly takes to publish a book. In this episode, author Nancy T
In a world often divided by beliefs, finding common ground can be a challenge. When I sat down with Huda Al-Mirashi, author of the new middle grade Hail Mariam, we delved into the intersection of faith and identity and t
In this episode, NYT bestselling author Tracy Wolff talks about her first middle grade novel, "The Aftermyth," where Penelope, a determined new student at Anaximander’s Academy, faces a whirlwind of challenges right from
On this episode Katherine Applegate, author of the acclaimed The One and Only Ivan and her latest Wombat Waiting, takes us through her unconventional journey from ghostwriter to winning the Newbery Medal—sharing candid i
Join us as Philip Stead, acclaimed author and illustrator, discusses his innovative approach to writing and illustrating his first middle grade book, 'A Potion, A Powder, A Little Bit of Magic.' Discover his creative pro
In this episode I chat with Christina Chatell and Marcia Kochel, two passionate librarians advocating for a new category in publishing. They’ve been on a mission to bridge the gap for middle schoolers who crave more rela
In this episode, Aaron Starmer shares his unique journey from the travel industry to becoming a successful children's author. He discusses the evolution of his writing career, the creative process behind his new book You
Writing for children can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to middle grade novels. As a writer, you want to create stories that not only entertain but also resonate deeply with young readers. In this episode,
In this episode, author N. West Moss shares her journey to becoming a children's author, the inspiration behind her debut middle grade novel Birdie, and her writing process - including working with her editor. Discover i
In this episode, author Beth Ferry shares her journey from writing picture books to her first middle grade novel, 'Growing Home.' She discusses its themes of home and belonging, the challenges of writing both picture boo
Book 7 of James Ponti's City Spies series IS OUT TODAY!, so it's a great time to re-listen to our interview. Last week we heard part 1 and today it's part 2. In this part we discuss his journey from screenwriting to beco
Book 7 of James Ponti's City Spies series comes out February 10th, so it's a great time to re-air part 1 of our interview. James shares heartfelt stories about his teachers, particularly Mrs. White, who inspired him to b
In this conversation, Simon Stephenson, a former physician turned screenwriter and author, shares his unique journey from medicine to storytelling. He discusses his early experiences in writing, which paved the way for h
In this conversation, John Schu, a children's librarian and author, shares his journey as a reader and writer, emphasizing the importance of connection in storytelling. He discusses his latest book, Louder Than Hunger, w
In this conversation, author Michelle Knudsen emphasizes the critical role of persistence in the writing industry, highlighting that success is often not immediate and can be influenced by many external factors. She enco
On this episode of the Middle Grade Matters podcast, Jordan Kopy discusses her Theodora Hendrix series, which follows a 10-year-old girl raised by a family of monster superheroes. Jordan shares her inspiration for the se
It's my first solo episode and I'm bringing you a glimpse of what it's been like launching a podcast and helping it grow over the past two years. I talk about the ups and downs, the big moments, the challenges, and what'
In this episode, Melissa Dassori discusses her journey as a middle grade author, focusing on her sophomore book, 'Greta Ever After.' She shares insights into the emotional roller coaster of publishing and emphasizes the
Tracy Wolff
The Aftermyth
1 appearance on this show
Philip Stead
author/illustrator
1 appearance on this show
Jasmine Warga
Newbery Honor-winning author
1 appearance on this show
N. West Moss
middle-grade author
1 appearance on this show
James Ponti
author · Simon & Schuster
4 appearances on this show
John Schu
Louder Than Hunger
1 appearance on this show
Tiffany D. Jackson
Blood in the Water
1 appearance on this show
Meg Medina
National Ambassador for Young People's Literature · Library of Congress
1 appearance on this show
Becca Wierwille
Author · Beloved Chronicles, LLC
1 appearance on this show
Claire Swinarski
bestselling author
2 appearances on this show
Marissa Meyer
1 appearance on this show
Ruta Sepetys
1 appearance on this show
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Middle Grade Matters is hosted by Shannon Balloon. The show is categorised under arts (books) and has published 117 episodes.
Middle Grade Matters has published 117 episodes.
Middle Grade Matters regularly covers arts, books, kids. It sits in the arts category, with a books focus.
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Episodes of Middle Grade Matters average 44 minutes. a focused format where a clear narrative arc and tight preparation matter most.
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