In this episode of Writing Break, we explore the Action and Adventure genre, which is all about forward motion. If you’re writing adventure novels, action scenes, or fast-paced fiction, this episode breaks down the craft behind the thrill.

Overthinking Couch Topics:

1. How to write a compelling adventure
2. How pacing, escalation, setting, and hero resilience work together
3. How to avoid action that feels repetitive or hollow

Music licensed from Storyblocks.

The episode opens with a look at current publishing news affecting authors, including reading behavior shifts and trends. Then we look at the three major stages of children’s literature and why understanding developmental stages matters. Perfect for writers curious about children’s books, writers who think they already understand the category, and anyone interested in how readers develop.

Overthinking Couch Topics:

• The latest book trends
• Why writing for kids is so hard
• Picture books and story economy
• Early readers and building confidence
• Middle grade and emotional depth
• Why “books for all ages” do not exist

• Leah Williamson and Richard Osman back National Year of Reading | Books | The Guardian
• Reading and Publishing Predictions: Book Trends to Watch for in 2026
• FT book award enters new partnership with Standard Chartered
• Book Clubs Reading Trends
• BookTok Trends
• Bookstores report sales boom as youth social media ban takes effect
• Predictions: what lies ahead for the book trade in 2026?
• Free Writing Tips

Music licensed from Storyblocks.

This week on Writing Break, we’re exploring how to weave the extraordinary into the ordinary without breaking the spell of magical realism. We're also discussing Amazon's increasing censorship of authors and artists.

Overthinking Couch Topics:

1. How it differs from fantasy and why the magic must stay unexplained
2. Techniques to balance realism and wonder
3. Common pitfalls that break the spell
4. The Latin American roots of magical realism and its global legacy
5. A writing prompt to help you find the extraordinary in the everyday

• The Biggest Mistake Writers Make - Writing Break
• Free Style Sheet Templates
• Free Writing Tips

Music licensed from Storyblocks.