278: Writing for Newly-Independent Readers - Interview with Megan McDonald

Hey there word nerds! Today, I have the pleasure of interviewing Megan McDonald, the author behind the popular Judy Moody series.

Megan grew up the youngest of five sisters, so knows a thing or two about speaking up for herself. Before she became a writer, she worked in museums, libraries, and bookstores; she has also made a living as a storyteller and a park ranger. In addition to the best-selling Judy Moody and Stink series, she is the author of three Sisters Club stories, two books about Ant and Honey Bee, and many other books for children. Today we’ll be talking about the latest Judy Moody book, #15 Judy Moody, Book Quiz Whiz.

In this episode Megan and I discuss:

• The personal origins of the Judy Moody books
• The question from kid readers that helped inspire the series
• Tailoring vocabulary for an early reader
• How to keep a story super focused
• Keeping a series fresh, new and exciting for readers

Plus her #1 Tip for Writers.

For more info and shownotes: www.diymfa.com/278