This episode is presented in partnership with The Smart Aleck Press. Bianca is joined by the talented mystery writer Chris Wieland, the creative force behind the Kat Dylan Mysteries; including The Body on the Beach.

Chris is known for crafting narratives that revolve around a strong girl protagonist, Kat Dylan. In this discussion, he delves into the intricacies of his storytelling process and how he constructs high-stakes scenarios in the fictional setting of Crabtree. Kat's emotional struggles, entwined with people she knows and cares about, add a profound layer to the storyline of The Body on the Beach. The murder of someone Kat's age prompts deep reflection on her identity and place in the world. Chris strives to create authentic, flawed characters for young readers, fostering relatability, with a theme in his work emerging — the vital use of one's mind and heart to triumph over evil, steering away from resorting to violence.

Chris Wieland is an award-winning writer and filmmaker. He is also the father of two fierce children, including a tough, smart tween who helped him find the voice of his protagonist, Kat Dylan. He lives in Southern California with his family.

Transcription:

You can read the transcription on ⁠The Children's Book Review⁠ .

Order a Copy:

The Body on the Beach: A Kat Dylan Mystery on ⁠⁠Amazon⁠⁠.

Resources:

For more information, visit https://www.thesmartaleckpress.com/

The Lost Chapter 25

Discussion Topics:

Chris Wieland talks about:

• The ongoing commitment to developing a resilient female protagonist, charting her evolution over time, and exploring the profound impact she has on other characters within the series.
• His satisfaction in crafting narratives with high-stakes scenarios.
• The intricacies of the enchanting setting of Crabtree.
• How emotional stakes heighten for Kat in Body on the Beach as she grapples with individuals she knows and cares about, introducing a poignant emotional struggle to her character development.
• An exploration of how a murder, specifically of someone Kat's age, reshapes the investigation's scope and prompts Kat to reflect on her place in the world.
• Weaving setting and backstory into the narrative without it feeling forced and the importance of organic storytelling to avoid imposing elements into the story artificially.
• The significance of creating authentic, flawed characters for young readers, fostering relatability.
• Using intellect and compassion to triumph over evil, steering clear of resorting to violence.