
How to Land a Traditional Children's Book Deal: Insider Secrets from Kris Tarantino
From Children's Book Authors Podcast Adventures in the Heart by Papa Rick Harris
June 2, 2026 · 60 min · Episode 84
About this episode
Kris Tarantino shares her journey in children's book publishing and insights on landing a traditional book deal.
Kris Tarantino, a distinguished author of children's literature, shares her profound journey in the realm of children's book publishing. The episode centers on her latest work, *BedSlime Blues*, which follows her debut book, *Be My ValenSlime*, published in 2023. Through a candid discussion, we explore the intricate process of breaking into the traditional publishing market, an endeavor that Kris has diligently pursued for over a decade. Kris reflects on the challenges and triumphs of her experiences, emphasizing the importance of perseverance, creativity, and the significant role of collaboration with illustrators and editors. The conversation ultimately reveals the essence of storytelling for children, articulating how these narratives not only entertain but also impart valuable lessons on love, friendship, and the inevitable trials of growing up. The discussion centers on the journey of Kris Tarantino, an author dedicated to the realm of children's literature, who shares insights from her career, particularly focusing on her latest publication, 'Bed Slime Blues'. Kris expresses the profound significance of being a children's book author, stating that it is a dream long pursued…
People in this episode
Host: Papa Rick Harris
Guest: Kris Tarantino
Topics covered
- children's book publishing
- traditional publishing
- storytelling
- perseverance
- collaboration
- children's literature
Keywords
- children's literature
- traditional publishing
- Kris Tarantino
- BedSlime Blues
- storytelling
- perseverance
- collaboration
Mentioned in this episode
Organizations: Penguin Random House
Books & works: BedSlime Blues, Be My ValenSlime
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