Middle Grade Debut Special with Shara Curlett, Sandy Bigna and Lucie Stevens

24/09/2025 1h 4min Temporada 1 Episodio 52
Middle Grade Debut Special with Shara Curlett, Sandy Bigna and Lucie Stevens

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Episode Synopsis

Getting That Elusive Book Deal: Insights from Debut AuthorsIn this episode of the Book Deal podcast, host Tina Strachan interviews three debut middle grade authors: Lucie Stevens, Shara Curlett, and Sandy Bigna. The authors discuss their unique publication journeys, the importance of community and continuous learning, and share valuable tips for aspiring writers. They also delve into the genres of middle grade literature, discussing themes, character ages, and writing conventions. The episode highlights the importance of resilience, the role of social media, and maintaining the joy of writing. Special mention is made of the supportive writing communities and platforms such as the CBCA and the now-disbanded Duck Pond. 00:00 Introduction to the Book Deal Podcast00:56 Special Episode: Middle Grade Debut Authors01:11 Meet the Authors: Lucie Stevens, Shara Curlett, and Sandy Bigna03:37 Lucie Stevens' Debut Novel: A Spooky Adventure05:21 Sandy Bigna's Verse Novel: Bones and Magic08:13 Shara Curlett's Magical Adventure: Welcome to Miracle10:08 Understanding Middle Grade Fiction14:47 Sandy Bigna's Publication Journey24:20 Lucie Stevens' Path to Publication33:20 The Thrill of a Two-Book Deal34:15 Shara's Unique Journey to Publication38:06 Finding Community and Support44:54 Debut Spotlight with Natalie Kyriacou46:46 The Importance of Continuous Learning47:32 Tips for Aspiring and Debut Authors59:47 The Role of Social Media in a Writer's Journey01:03:00 Final Thoughts and FarewellJoin our Patreon community for less than the cost of a coffee per month and support the pod! Your contribution will go to directly paying our sound producer, Brogan, and to help us bring you the conversations with industry professionals you love. Follow The Book Deal podcast on Instagram The Book Deal podcast (@the_book_deal_podcast) • Instagram photos and videosYou can find out more about Tina, Madeleine and Natasha and follow their journeys here: Tina Strachan (@td_strachan) • Instagram photos and videosTina Strachan children's book authorMadeleine Cleary (@madeleineclearywrites) • Instagram photos and videosMadeleine Cleary | AuthorNatasha Rai (@raiwriting) • Instagram photos and videosNatasha Rai | Author | Mentor If you want to stay in the know, sign up to Madeleine, Tina and Natasha's newsletters for the latest news first. Madeleine: Subscribe here...

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