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Middle Grade Matters

Shannon Balloon
Middle Grade
Greta Ever After
Young Teen Lit
JR. Silver Writes Her World
Middle Grade Literature
Theodora Hendrix
Fairy Tales
Musical Theater
Publishing
Writing
Friendship
Louder Than Hunger
James Ponti
City Spies
Growing Home
Birdie
Zero Draft
Animal Perspective In Writing
Aaron Starmer
The Aftermyth

On the Middle Grade Matters podcast, host Shannon Balloon talks to to authors and publishing professionals about all things middle grade. The show explores topics like the craft of writing, the journey to getting an agent and publishing a book, and why middle grade books should matter to everyone.

PublishesTwice monthlyEpisodes114Founded3 years ago
Number of ListenersCategories
BooksKids & FamilyArts

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Artwork for Middle Grade Matters

Latest Episodes

In a world often divided by beliefs, finding common ground can be a challenge. When I sat down with Huda Al-Mirashi, author of the new middle grade Hail Mariam, we delved into the intersection of faith and identity and the profound themes of understa... more

In this episode, NYT bestselling author Tracy Wolff talks about her first middle grade novel, "The Aftermyth," where Penelope, a determined new student at Anaximander’s Academy, faces a whirlwind of challenges right from the start. With a doughnut ho... more

On this episode Katherine Applegate, author of the acclaimed The One and Only Ivan and her latest Wombat Waiting, takes us through her unconventional journey from ghostwriter to winning the Newbery Medal—sharing candid insights about the ups and dow... more

Join us as Philip Stead, acclaimed author and illustrator, discusses his innovative approach to writing and illustrating his first middle grade book, 'A Potion, A Powder, A Little Bit of Magic.' Discover his creative process, storytelling techniques,... more

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Recent Guests

Tracy Wolff
New York Times and USA Today bestselling author; writer of The Aftermyth
Simon & Schuster
Episode: Ep. 110: Tracy Wolff (The Aftermyth) on Creating Stories that Spark Imagination
Philip Stead
Author-illustrator of middle grade and picture books, writer/illustrator of the featured novel
Author, Illustrator
Episode: Ep. 108: Philip Stead (A Potion, A Powder, A Little Bit of Magic) on Writing and Illustrating Whimsical Stories
Christina Chatell
Librarian with 13th-year experience, focused on Young Teen Lit
School librarians, Michigan
Episode: Ep. 107: Filling the Gap: Why We Need More Young Teen Lit
Marcia Kochel
Librarian with 28 years experience focusing on advocating for Young Teen Lit
Georgia, USA
Episode: Ep. 107: Filling the Gap: Why We Need More Young Teen Lit
Aaron Starmer
Author of middle grade and young adult novels; former travel book editor
Author (You Are Now Old Enough to Hear This)
Episode: Ep. 106: Aaron Starmer (You Are Now Old Enough to Hear This) On Writing a Book That's Weird In a Good Way
Jasmine Warga
Number one New York Times bestselling author of middle grade novels
Author (Middle Grade)
Episode: Ep. 105: Jasmine Warga (The Unlikely Tale of Chase and Finnegan) on Zero Drafts and Writing From an Animal's Perspective
N. West Moss
Author of Birdie; memoir Flesh and Blood and The Subway Stops at Bryant Park
Author, Middle Grade Birdie
Episode: Ep. 104: N. West Moss (Birdy) on Finding Joy After Loss
Beth Ferry
Author of Growing Home and Stick and Stone
Author
Episode: Ep. 103: Beth Ferry (Growing Home) On Loving Your Own Story
James Ponti
New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of four middle grade book series, including City Spies and the Sherlock Society
Author, City Spies/Sherlock Society
Episode: [LISTEN AGAIN] Ep. 74: James Ponti (Part 1) (City Spies) on Writing a Bestselling Middle Grade Series

Host

Shannon Balloon
Host of the Middle Grade Matters podcast, guiding conversations with MG authors and publishing professionals.

Reviews

5.0 out of 5 stars from 67 ratings
  • Refreshing and encouraging

    As a new author navigating the world of Middle grade fiction, this podcast is such a refreshing and encouraging breath of fresh air. I started listening to the podcast this morning and have been binge listening for the rest of the. 😊 My TBR list has grown enormously, and my appreciation for the authors and their craft has grown enormously. For anyone looking for new books to read, working on writing their own books, or just book lovers in general, this podcast is delightful.

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    Joyfulmama56
    United States5 months ago
  • Thanks for the Encouragement

    It’s so interesting to hear middle grade writers tell their stories about themselves and their craft. Shannon does a lovely job of eliciting these stories and encouraging all of us aspiring writers.

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    Liz Lyle
    United States7 months ago
  • I wouldn’t miss an episode!

    I enjoy Shannon’s conversations so much and particularly enjoyed her taking us behind the scenes in her anniversary episode. Congrats on creating a must-listen!

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    DDebrovner
    United States7 months ago
  • Excellent resource for writers of middle grade. Shannon does such a great job with interviews! I listen to every episode.

    Podcast Addict
    5
    afletcher408
    8 months ago
  • Middle Grade Matters is top of its class!

    This is one of the best podcasts - whether you’re interested specifically in middle grade books or in writing in general. Shannon’s gentle voice was made for podcasting (it doesn’t grate!), and she has an enchanting way of guiding her authors through the interviews so they can reveal their best selves. Every episode is a pleasure to listen to. Thank you Shannon!

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    Mara from Australia
    Australia9 months ago

Listeners Say

Key themes from listener reviews, highlighting what works and what could be improved about the show.

Many reviews highlight the show's warmth and kindness as a standout quality.
Fans describe the show as a must-listen for MG writers and readers alike.
Listeners praise the host's thoughtful, gentle interviewing style and engaging guests.
Episodes are noted for offering practical writing and publishing tips that listeners can apply.

Chart Rankings

How this podcast ranks in the Apple Podcasts, Spotify and YouTube charts.

Apple Podcasts
#154
Indonesia/Arts/Books
Apple Podcasts
#187
South Africa/Arts/Books
Apple Podcasts
#218
Ireland/Arts/Books

Talking Points

Recent interactions between the hosts and their guests.

Ep. 110: Tracy Wolff (The Aftermyth) on Creating Stories that Spark Imagination
Q: What is the author's drafting process like for this series?
She outlines the big beats, develops central ideas and character growth, then rewrites the opening chapters multiple times to set up future scenes, while relying on editor feedback to fine-tune for middle-grade readers.
Ep. 110: Tracy Wolff (The Aftermyth) on Creating Stories that Spark Imagination
Q: How many books are planned in the Aftermyth series?
The author plans six books in the series, each tackling a different myth and following Penelope's growth and her friends across several years at Anaximander's Academy.
Ep. 110: Tracy Wolff (The Aftermyth) on Creating Stories that Spark Imagination
Q: Why this story and why middle grade?
The author explains her motivation comes from wanting to engage younger readers who love reading and to help them stay excited about stories by presenting adventurous, myth-based tales that allow for personal growth and relatable friendships.
Ep. 100: Michelle Knudsen (Into the Wild Magic) on The Importance of Persistence in Writing
Q: What do you hope young readers take from this book?
Beyond having fun and escaping into a fantasy, readers can learn about friendship, empathy, trusting themselves, and discovering courage to act for those they care about.
Ep. 100: Michelle Knudsen (Into the Wild Magic) on The Importance of Persistence in Writing
Q: What inspired this story?
Inspiration emerged from the first scene of Bevvy meeting Cat in the school yard, and the creative process grew organically as the author explored character relationships and friendship.

Audience Metrics

Listeners, social reach, demographics and more for this podcast.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Middle Grade Matters

What is Middle Grade Matters about and what kind of topics does it cover?

This show centers on middle grade storytelling, interviewing authors, librarians, and publishing professionals about craft, publishing journeys, and the kidlit ecosystem. Episodes frequently explore writing processes, world-building for younger readers, and the realities of publishing—from drafting habits and editing to marketing and audience engagement. Noteworthy is the host's warm, guiding interview style and a steady stream of guests who are established MG authors, librarians, and industry professionals, making it a solid resource for aspiring MG writers, educators, and parents seeking book recommendations and insights into the publishing world.

Where can I find podcast stats for Middle Grade Matters?

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How many listeners does Middle Grade Matters get?

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What are the audience demographics for Middle Grade Matters?

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How many subscribers and views does Middle Grade Matters have?

To see how many followers or subscribers Middle Grade Matters has on Spotify and other platforms such as Castbox and Podcast Addict, simply upgrade your account. You'll also find viewership figures for their YouTube channel if they have one.

Which podcasts are similar to Middle Grade Matters?

These podcasts share a similar audience with Middle Grade Matters:

1. Writers With Wrinkles
2. BookHuddle with Readgab
3. Fiction Writing Made Easy with Savannah Gilbo | How to Write a Novel & Writing Advice
4. The Shit No One Tells You About Writing
5. Reading in The Middle

How many episodes of Middle Grade Matters are there?

Middle Grade Matters launched 3 years ago and published 114 episodes to date. You can find more information about this podcast including rankings, audience demographics and engagement in our podcast database.

How do I contact Middle Grade Matters?

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Where can I see ratings and reviews for Middle Grade Matters?

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What guests have appeared on Middle Grade Matters?

Recent guests on Middle Grade Matters include:

1. Tracy Wolff
2. Philip Stead
3. Christina Chatell
4. Marcia Kochel
5. Aaron Starmer
6. Jasmine Warga
7. N. West Moss
8. Beth Ferry

To view more recent guests and their details, simply upgrade your Rephonic account. You'll also get access to a typical guest profile to help you decide if the show is worth pitching.

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