Get Inspired to Write Neurodiverse Characters Who Aren’t Always Perfect—But Are ALWAYS Relatable and Inspirational for Kids!

Want to write authentic characters (featuring dragons… or nah) but don’t know where to start?
In this episode of The Storyteller’s Shelf Podcast, we dive into the creative world of Kris Paulsen, homeschooling mom and award-winning indie author of the Galaxy Walkers middle grade series. Kris shares how she writes neurodiverse characters who are messy, magical, and most importantly—real.

Her stories champion imperfection, emotion, and imagination—all while offering kids powerful characters to connect with. Grab your inspo and settle in!

🎧 In This Episode, You’ll Learn:

• How to write neurodiverse, emotionally rich middle grade characters

• Why representation and imperfection matter in kids’ stories

• How Kris juggles storytelling and homeschooling life

• Behind-the-scenes insight into her sci-fi adventure series Galaxy Walkers

🎙️ About The Storyteller’s Shelf Podcast
We demystify publishing and spotlight children’s literature—from board books to YA! Hosted by Jackie Garcia-Morales & Theresa Maria Villarreal, we feature:
📚 In-depth book reviews
📝 Expert interviews with authors and publishing professionals
✍️ Practical advice for aspiring storytellers

🖌️ Are You a Self-Published Picture Book Author or an Emerging Illustrator?
We’ve got awards just for you! Enter our Picture Book Award (for indie authors) and Illustrator Award (for up-and-coming talent).
👉 Submit here: https://thestorytellersshelfpodcast.com/awards/

🔗 More Resources & Links:
🌟 Learn more about Kris Paulsen & her Galaxy Walkers series: https://thestorytellersshelfpodcast.com/kris-paulsen/
🌐 Visit our website for freebies, episodes, and more: https://thestorytellersshelfpodcast.com

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👍 Like, comment, and subscribe for more expert writing tips and author interviews!
💬 What inspires you to write? Drop a comment below—we’d love to hear from you!

#NeurodiverseCharacters #MiddleGradeBooks #WritingForKids #InclusiveStorytelling #AuthorInterview #FantasyWriting #SciFiWriting #ChildrensBooks #SelfPublishedAuthors #IndieIllustrators #PictureBookAward #AuthorTube #WritingAdvice #PublishingTips #KidLitPodcast #BookishPodcast #WritingInspiration #BookTokAuthors #KidLitCommunity

In this magical episode of The Storyteller’s Shelf Podcast, join co-host and author Theresa Maria Villarreal as we dive into the art of writing fantasy for kids—full of heart, humor, and imagination.

✨ Here’s what we explore:
🌍 How to write engaging, age-appropriate fantasy for middle grade readers
🌿 Building immersive, sensory-rich worlds that feel real
🗺️ Outlining tips to help organize your magical universe
🖋️ Theresa’s inspiring self-publishing journey and how she brings faith and fantasy together

Whether you're an aspiring writer, a teacher, or simply a lover of middle grade books, this episode is filled with practical advice, heartfelt insights, and a touch of wonder to fuel your creative spark.

☕ Bonus cozy vibes: We’re sipping on Harney & Sons Fine Teas while we chat! Grab a cup for yourself and support the show through our affiliate link:
https://harney.com/discount/STORYTELLER

🎨 Enter your work in our Picture Book & Illustrator Awards:
thestorytellersshelfpodcast.com/awards

📚 Get to know Theresa:
thestorytellersshelfpodcast.com/theresa-maria-villarreal

🎁 Explore FREE resources, writing tools & more:
thestorytellersshelfpodcast.com

💬 Connect with our growing community:
Instagram | @TheStorytellersShelfPodcast
Facebook | The Storyteller’s Shelf Podcast
TikTok | @StorytellersShelfPodcast

• #KidLitCommunity

• #ChildrensBook

• #ChildrensBooks (similar but can broaden reach)

• #MGBooks #WritingTips #FantasyWriting #MiddleGradeBooks #AuthorJourney #WritersLife #SelfPublishedAuthors #WritingCommunity

  
  

Want to write fantasy or sci-fi but don’t know where to start? In this episode of The Storyteller’s Shelf Podcast, we chat with Dr. Rebecca Rowe, Ph.D., Assistant Professor of Children’s Literature at East Texas A&M University. From world-building to fan-fiction, Disney’s influence, and timeless storytelling, this episode is packed with expert insights to help you craft your next great story.What You’ll Learn:✅ How to create immersive fantasy & sci-fi worlds✅ The impact of Disney & fan-fiction on storytelling✅ What makes a story unforgettable & timeless✅ Essential writing tips for new & experienced authors🎧 About The Storyteller’s Shelf PodcastWe demystify publishing and champion children’s literature—from board books to YA! Hosted by Jackie Garcia-Morales & Theresa Maria Villarreal, we explore:📚 In-depth book reviews📝 Expert interviews with authors & industry professionals🚀 Writing & storytelling advice for aspiring authors🌟 Calling All Self-Published Authors & Illustrators!Are you a self-published picture book author or an emerging illustrator? Submit your work for our Picture Book Award (for self-published authors) or Illustrator Award (for rising illustrators)!👉 Enter here: https://thestorytellersshelfpodcast.com📲 Follow Us on Social Media:IG @TheStorytellersShelfPodcast | 📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheStorytellersShelfPodcast | 🎵 TikTok: StorytellersShelfPodcast 💬 Like, comment, and subscribe for more expert writing tips! Who’s your favorite fantasy or sci-fi author? Drop a comment below! 👇#WritingTips #FantasyWriting #SciFiWriting #Author #ChildrensBooks #AuthorAdvice #StorytellersShelfPodcast #WritingCommunity #writerslife #Kidlit #storytelling#authortube #booktubetbr #booktok #duet #disney #disneyplus #disneyworld #trending #texasaggies