"Writing a novel is like mining for diamonds." quoted guest Liesl Shurtliff as she talks with Anthony Manna about her dramatic career change to take up writing, her passion for reimagining fairy tales, her research for writing complex middle-grade novels, and her forthcoming writing projects.

About this Podcast:

This podcast platform interviews authors who openly discuss their books, writing journeys, goals, and accomplishments. It also provides practical tips and motivation for writers at all stages of their writing journey. The diverse number of guest authors will almost certainly provide an educational environment in which all authors will make discoveries about crafting particular genres. Topics discussed on the podcast cover the entire spectrum of writing, self-publishing, indie publishing, marketing, and distribution.

The HOST:

For the past 50 years, Anthony Manna has taught reading, writing, literacy development, drama and language arts in schools and universities in the United States and around the world. His goal is to help kids and teens discover great books and exciting activities and games that’ll get them reading, writing, and thinking.

His website provides parents and educators with information and guides that support the success of their children, tweens, and, teens as readers and writers and encourage them to enjoy discovering books that will set them on the right path. You can learn about Anthony’s books such as Loukas and the Game of Chance, The Orphan: A Cinderella Story from Greece, Mr. Semolina-Semolinus: A Greek Folktale, and Greek Folktales: A Treasury of Delights.  

GUEST:

Liesl Shurtliff grew up in Salt Lake City, Utah, and just as Snow White had seven dwarves, Liesl had seven siblings to keep her company! Before she became a writer, Liesl graduated from Brigham Young University with a degree in music dance theater.  Her first three books, Rump, Jack, and Red are all New York Times bestsellers, and Rump was named to over two dozen state award lists and won an ILA Children’s Book Award. She lives in Chicago with her family, where she continues to spin fascinating middle-grade novels. You can learn more about Liesl by visiting her website.