019 - Jorjeana Marie: Improv for Writers

Meet stand-up comedian, actress, TV writer, audiobook narrator, and picture book author Jorjeana Marie, here on the 12 x 12 Picture Book Writing Podcast to discuss using improv techniques to write humorous, character-driven picture books. Jorjeana shares her background and why she's drawn to picture books through character, heart, and humor, then outlines key improv "rules" and games she applies to writing. She talks about her inspiration for writing the book, IMPROV FOR WRITERS, which Julie tested out before this episode.   Listen in to discover: What draws someone as accomplished as Jorjeana Marie to 12 x 12 Jorjeana's dedication to writing picture books Why picture books (and all books) are critical for children An overview of the "rules" of Improv and how they can be adapted for writing The benefit of the "Yes, and" game in both improv and writing Why listening and staying present is a crucial piece of the writing puzzle The importance of committing to whatever you are creating Julie's experience playing some of the improv games from the book The difference between writing prompts and improv games How to use improv games to write funny picture books Why the best comedy (and humorous picture books) is layered Jorjeana demonstrating improv techniques live The connection between poetry and improv Books mentioned in this episode: Improv for Writers: 10 Secrets to Help Novelists and Screenwriters Bypass Writer's Block and Generate Infinite Ideas by Jorjeana Marie Over, Bear! Under, Where? by Julie Hedlund and Michael Slack Grab these books and more from the 12 x 12 Bookshop.org Podcast list here. Julie is offering listeners 25% off her webinar, Cooking Up Funny Picture Books. If you enjoy the podcast, please like, subscribe, and review so other kidlit writers can find us! Thank you for listening! #kidlit #booktok #author #writingtipsforbeginners #writingtips #ya #mg #picturebooks #improv #humor