In today’s Feature Interview, I’m talking with former librarian, editor, and kidlit author Marcia Strykowski. Marcia and I will be discussing how to be successful after publication and marketing your children’s books.
Marcia, it’s so wonderful to have you with us on the blog today! I know you’ve been an active blog participant for quite some time, and it’s great being able to have you join us today in the interview seat. Can you tell us where you’re joining from?
Hi Chelsea! Thanks so much for having me on your blog. I’m joining you from New England, where I’ve lived my whole life. Although I love to travel, I’m most content to be at home where I can visit the coast or the mountains in less than an hour.
How were you first introduced to Chelsea’s World of Books blog and what made you want to join the feature interview series?
I’ve been following your World of Books blog for quite a while and I enjoy learning about all the different authors and illustrators out there. When I saw a call to apply for a future spot on the blog, I thought, “why not give it a try?!”
How long have you been writing, and what genres and age groups do you write for?
I’ve been writing off and on for many years and even have a childhood book made with cardboard and crayons. I mostly like to write fiction in the form of picture books and middle grade novels. I love graphic novels, too, so maybe someday…
Can you tell us a little bit about the beginning of your journey into the Kidlit world?
My first realization of what was out there was when my high school offered a class in Children’s Literature, and we all made books for our final project. And then, during college years, I was always drawn to illustration and creative writing courses as well. But when it really began was when I joined writing groups. One day, over twenty years ago, I heard about a new SCBWI critique group starting up. I never looked back, and that group is now the roots of Writers’ Rumpus.
Are you currently represented by a literary agent? If so, who/what agency?
No, I have never had an agent.
I know 2026 has been an exciting year for you as you just had your debut picture book come out- THE PUFFIN WHO WHISPERED with Lawley Publishing. Congratulations! Can you tell us a little bit about this story and what it means to you?
The Puffin Who Whispered is about a lonely puffin who finds the courage to speak up and help others in her quest for friendship. It’s a story about daring to reach out without changing who you are inside, even if you’re a very soft-spoken puffin. I began this story a long time ago, back when Project Puffin was bringing puffins back to the islands of Maine. I even adopted a puffin and named her Abigale. I’m thrilled to have Abigale’s story out in the world at last.
What do you hope readers will take away from this book?
I hope readers will see themselves as well as their friends in this story and realize that those who are quiet have just as much to offer as their louder friends. Not only to feel pride in themselves but to stop and listen to those who might have trouble making themselves heard.
Have you been able to host any book events since its release this past summer? Book launch? Signing parties? Etc.
Yes! I had a wonderful launch party and was thrilled to have about 55 close friends and family members in attendance, along with several strangers who kindly popped in. This involved a story-time, crafts, lots of food, and live music where we included a performance of a puffin-themed song I wrote the lyrics to. I also participated in several library and bookstore story-times with a few author fairs still to come.
What have been some of the most challenging parts of the writing journey for you, and how have you been able to overcome them?
Like just about everyone experiences, it can be frustrating to wait a long time for responses, whether they be acceptances, rejections, or other information. But I have a very tough skin, and I’ve never taken rejections personally, even though I’ve had plenty of them. Getting one often motivates me to get another submission out there.
What have been some of your greatest writing moments?
I’ve had so many meaningful moments, either hanging out with writing groups, hosting launch parties, or seeing kids enjoy my books. One of my most unique, special times was attending Jane Yolen’s Picture Book Boot Camp. You can read about my experience here.
Being a former librarian and editor, in addition to a published children’s book author, what advice would you like to give to writers who are looking to publish books for children?
If you really love children’s books, then never stop enjoying them. Read them, write them, and repeat, over and over. It’s really just a matter of practicing craft for as long as it takes and then sending manuscripts to the right person at the right time. That plus a lot of luck. Even to those who are turning to self-publishing, I would encourage them not to skip any steps in making sure their products are the best they can be. That includes many revisions with critique partners and using authentic art by skilled illustrators.
Do you have any tips for marketing children’s books?
I think it’s great fun to play with the theme of a book when marketing. I found a wonderful tablecloth covered in puffins that I bring along to author fairs, and I like to display whatever works well with the theme. Unlike penguins, it can be trickier to find puffin stickers and other swag without going over budget. When I thought beyond that narrow idea, I realized ocean-themed stickers are just as good. So now, instead of giving out one tiny, expensive puffin sticker, I can give kids a whole sheet of stickers for pennies. I also had a lot of fun making button pins for everyone who attended my launch party. Unless the publisher has already provided one, I enjoy making promo or sell sheets to send out to whoever might be interested in my new book.
What would you say is most invaluable to an author’s success after publication?
Keeping up with as many kidlit creators as you can is invaluable for remaining inspired and continuing to learn what’s new in the business. I subscribe to a lot of blogs and articles. I especially like Instagram for following creatives, but I’m on other sites as well. Entering new books into contests can be valuable, too. Otherwise, just keeping my books out there at fairs and local programs works great for keeping them fresh while I work on new projects.
Are there any resources in particular that you’d recommend to writers looking to learn more about Kidlit and/or grow in their writing craft?
There are so many online opportunities to take advantage of that offer training, contests, submission opportunities, interviews, and more. One I keep up with and participate in is the Writers’ Rumpus blog. Also, SCBWI offers a lot of workshops along with in-person conferences, which are great for making contacts and keeping up with what’s new in kidlit. For a book, I’ll recommend Writing Picture Books by Ann Whitford Paul.
What are three books that you love, and what do you love about them? (Writing style/humor/voice/setting/world-building/tension/stakes/etc)
For picture books, I always choose Miss Rumphius as one of my favorites for many reasons, but perhaps mostly because of its beautiful Maine setting and timeless story of making the world a more beautiful place. Another I often choose is Library Lion because the lion and other characters are all so lovable. I tried to choose a novel, too, but I just couldn’t do it. I’ve read so many wonderful books of all types for all ages. To pick one more is impossible, but my favorites are probably all about how well I connect with the main character and the setting. I do like humor and tension, too, but character and setting come first.
Any last words of wisdom you’d like to share with readers today?
Not sure I can be wise, but I hope everyone with an interest in children’s books will continue to enjoy, promote, and support the importance of books for all children. With our current fast-paced, screen-filled world, it becomes all the more essential for us to help books survive. To give children the chance to relax deep into a story where they can dream, imagine, and learn.
Thanks so much for joining us, Marcia! We look forward to seeing more of your books out in the world!
My pleasure! Thanks so much for having me, Chelsea!
And now it’s time for our giveaway!
Marcia will be giving away a copy of her newest book, THE PUFFIN WHO WHISPERED, to one winner.
HOW TO ENTER THE GIVEAWAY
LIKE AND COMMENT at the bottom of this interview. To receive an extra entry in the giveaway pool, SHARE this interview to X and/or Instagram and list my handle X @chellysbooks / Instagram @chelseasworldofbooks.
ENTRY DEADLINE: TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 17TH 11:59 PM EST
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A former librarian and editor, Marcia Strykowski loves the ocean and forests near her home in New England. To help ensure puffins remain on the Maine coast, Marcia adopted one through Project Puffin. The Puffin Who Whispered is Marcia’s debut picture book. Along with multiple magazines and anthologies, her middle-grade novels include Call Me Amy (a Bank Street College best book) and its sequel, Amy’s Choice, along with Roller Boy. Her fourth children’s novel is scheduled to release in 2027. Learn more about Marcia at http://www.marciastrykowski.com.
