S2 Ep 4: Dominoes, Not Hurdles-Building tension with Sam Subity

Dragon elements with history, character goals, and navigating multiple POVs in a story are some of the writing themes we talked about with Sam Subity.As we read, we noticed two passages that really stood out to us.* Brittany: “Maybe, even, they are miles and miles away beside the same river. I let my fingertips trail into the water and imagine they are doing the same and our fingers touch.” pg. 105 * Alexis: “Would the thaw bring enemy soldiers flooding over their border like a river swollen with melting snow?” pg. 8Further down in the description you can read more about the book, where to buy your own copy, and what we are doing next.You can listen to the podcast above or on Apple Podcasts. We also have transcripts available if listening is not for you. Note: Transcripts on Substack are only available in the web version, not the app.We would love to hear what you thought of the book and our talk with the author.Music credits: Will SaulnierAbout Sam SubitySam Subity is the author of two wonderful middle grade fantasy novels, The Last Shadow Warrior and Valor Wings. His books are full of adventure and fantasy and are always a great escape. You can read more about him and his books as well as author visits and…his data on Middle Grade publishing at his website.Valor WingsEveryone in Iris’s small English village avoids the dragon in the woods. Everyone, that is, except for Iris. She knows Galahad would never hurt her—she’s been caring for the dragon since he lost his mother when he was a baby. When Galahad is accused of stealing military rations, Iris strikes a bargain that will spare Galahad’s life…but send him off to the war brewing in Europe. Soon after, she receives news that her brother is among the troops trapped in France by the advancing German army. Refusing to give up hope, Iris devises a desperate plan that will either save both her brother and her best friend—or end in disaster.Thanks for reading Read to Write Kidlit Substack! This post is public so feel free to share it.Looking aheadThanks for reading Read to Write Kidlit Substack! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit readtowritekidlit.substack.com