From Bookstore to Bestseller: Inside Children's Publishing with K.B. Childress

In this episode of Book Chat with author Vivian E. Moore, host Vivian interviews K.B. Childress, a seasoned editor, reviewer, and consultant in children's publishing with over 30 years of experience. Childress shares her journey from advertising sales and newspaper work to discovering her passion for children's books after a transformative moment at a conference where she heard Richard McLachlan speak. She emphasizes the importance of reading within one’s genre, doing thorough research, and building a professional network through conferences and social media. The conversation dives into common manuscript errors—especially 'telling' instead of 'showing'—and the critical stages of editing, from macro edits to proofreading. Childress also discusses the value of traditional publishing’s rigorous process, the necessity of an authentic internet presence, and the dangers of writing to market trends. She stresses authenticity, perseverance, and the emotional depth required to create resonant stories. The episode concludes with practical advice on querying agents, using writer’s market guides, joining professional organizations like SCBWI, and maintaining a long-term, passionate commitment to the craft.