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What if a book could change the entire course of your career? Join us on Craft Chat Chronicles as we sit down with literary agent Sarah Younger, who shares her transformative journey from a reluctant reader to a champion of authors. Discover how a serendipitous encounter with "Ella Enchanted" ignited Sarah's passion for books and led her through a whirlwind of experiences across Europe, small presses, and summer programs, all in pursuit of her dream role in commercial fiction. Her story is a testament to persistence and the power of storytelling.

Together with Sarah, we navigate the ever-evolving landscape of literary representation, especially in the romantic fiction genre. From the burgeoning trend of "romanticy" to the potential rise of romantic suspense with relatable, everyday heroes, Sarah offers a behind-the-scenes look at what's capturing readers' hearts. She also opens up about the dynamics of agent-client relationships, focusing on the importance of personalized strategies and the inclusion of diverse voices to enrich the literary world. Aspiring agents will find valuable insights on building strong relationships and understanding the nuanced role they play in an author's long-term journey.

Our conversation wouldn't be complete without tackling the practical sides of publishing today, such as managing author expectations and the pivotal role of social media presence. Sarah shares sage advice for both budding agents and authors, highlighting the significance of finding the right fit in agent partnerships and being cautious with initial offers. We also explore market trends in a fun, speculative game that assesses the status of various literary themes. This episode is packed with wisdom, humor, and practical tips for anyone passionate about the ever-fascinating world of publishing.

https://www.literatureandlatte.com/scrivener-affiliate.html?fpr=craftchat

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🎙️ Craft Chat Chronicles with J.D. Myall
Candid conversations on writing, publishing, and creative life — featuring bestselling authors, MFA students, and writers at every stage of the journey.

About J.D. Myall
J.D. Myall is the co-chair of Drexel University’s MFA Alumni Association and a publishing and library professional. She is the creator and host of Craft Chat Chronicles, where she interviews authors, agents, and industry insiders about the art and business of writing.

Her work has appeared in Ms. Magazine, Writer’s Digest, and HuffPost. Her debut novel, Heart’s Gambit, releases with Wednesday Books/Macmillan in February 2026.

When she’s not conjuring magic, murder, and mayhem on the page, J.D. mentors emerging writers through workshops and alumni programs, fostering community among aspiring and published authors alike.

💜 Connect with J.D. Myall
📸 Instagram

🌐 Website & Media Kit

💌 Newsletter

🔗 Linktree

Watch episodes on YouTube as well.

💜 Level up your writing process with Scrivener ...

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From aspiring biochemist to bestselling author, Kwame Alexander's literary journey is nothing short of inspiring. What if a single college poetry class could alter the course of your career? For Kwame, that moment came with Nikki Giovanni at Virginia Tech. Kwame reveals how this pivotal experience ignited his passion for writing, ultimately leading him to self-publish 13 books before his Newbery Medal win in 2015 catapulted him into the realm of traditional publishing. Join us as Kwame shares the trials and triumphs of his path, offering a roadmap of persistence and self-belief for budding authors.

Navigating the tangled web of the publishing industry is a challenge, and Kwame's quest for the perfect literary agent is a testament to resilience. We take you through his story of searching for representation, from initial disappointments to finding a business partner in Ariel, a retired agent who believed in his vision. This journey culminated in an unforgettable early morning call announcing his Newbery triumph. Kwame opens up about the power of confidence and surrounding oneself with supportive individuals, exemplifying how perseverance can turn 25 years of hard work into a seemingly overnight success.

Kwame's creativity continues to flourish with projects that engage and inspire. He shares the backstory of "Black Star" and the fulfilling process of bringing his stories into different mediums, like an animated PBS series and a Broadway musical adaptation. Listen as he reflects on balancing multiple projects and staying true to his artistic vision, while offering valuable advice for storytellers everywhere. His insights on the importance of creativity, impactful storytelling, and the joy of inspiring young readers are sure to resonate with writers and creatives seeking their own path to success.

https://www.literatureandlatte.com/scrivener-affiliate.html?fpr=craftchat

Support the show

🎙️ Craft Chat Chronicles with J.D. Myall
Candid conversations on writing, publishing, and creative life — featuring bestselling authors, MFA students, and writers at every stage of the journey.

About J.D. Myall
J.D. Myall is the co-chair of Drexel University’s MFA Alumni Association and a publishing and library professional. She is the creator and host of Craft Chat Chronicles, where she interviews authors, agents, and industry insiders about the art and business of writing.

Her work has appeared in Ms. Magazine, Writer’s Digest, and HuffPost. Her debut novel, Heart’s Gambit, releases with Wednesday Books/Macmillan in February 2026.

When she’s not conjuring magic, murder, and mayhem on the page, J.D. mentors emerging writers through workshops and alumni programs, fostering community among aspiring and published authors alike.

💜 Connect with J.D. Myall
📸 Instagram

🌐 Website & Media Kit

💌 Newsletter

🔗 Linktree

Watch episodes on YouTube as well.

💜 Level up your writing process with Scrivener ...

Send us a text

What does it take to transition from a legal career to becoming a bestselling young adult author? Join us on Craft Chat Chronicles as we share thrilling updates, including my exciting new role at the Neighborhood Literary Agency under the guidance of the renowned Eric Smith. We'll discuss my progress on two major writing projects: a vampire novel set for submission and the first completed book of the Heart's Gambit series. This episode also tackles timely and crucial issues like book banning, emphasizing the pivotal role parents play in guiding their children's reading journeys.

Dive into an inspiring conversation with bestselling author Jeff Zentner, who takes us through his remarkable journey in the world of publishing. Jeff's passion for writing and music traces back to his teenage years, and he shares how perceptions of the literary world evolved over time, paving the way for his success. We'll also explore the nuances of crafting compelling adult novels, from maintaining narrative momentum to the importance of honest feedback. Whether you're an aspiring writer or a seasoned storyteller, this episode is brimming with insights and inspiration you won't want to miss!

https://www.literatureandlatte.com/scrivener-affiliate.html?fpr=craftchat

Support the show

🎙️ Craft Chat Chronicles with J.D. Myall
Candid conversations on writing, publishing, and creative life — featuring bestselling authors, MFA students, and writers at every stage of the journey.

About J.D. Myall
J.D. Myall is the co-chair of Drexel University’s MFA Alumni Association and a publishing and library professional. She is the creator and host of Craft Chat Chronicles, where she interviews authors, agents, and industry insiders about the art and business of writing.

Her work has appeared in Ms. Magazine, Writer’s Digest, and HuffPost. Her debut novel, Heart’s Gambit, releases with Wednesday Books/Macmillan in February 2026.

When she’s not conjuring magic, murder, and mayhem on the page, J.D. mentors emerging writers through workshops and alumni programs, fostering community among aspiring and published authors alike.

💜 Connect with J.D. Myall
📸 Instagram

🌐 Website & Media Kit

💌 Newsletter

🔗 Linktree

Watch episodes on YouTube as well.

💜 Level up your writing process with Scrivener ...