# How to Land a Traditional Children's Book Deal: Insider Secrets from Kris Tarantino

Page: https://stenobird.com/podcast/adventures-in-the-heart-of-children-s-book-authors-podcast-6727412/how-to-land-a-traditional-children-s-book-deal-insider-secrets-from-kris-tarantino
Text version: https://stenobird.com/podcast/adventures-in-the-heart-of-children-s-book-authors-podcast-6727412/how-to-land-a-traditional-children-s-book-deal-insider-secrets-from-kris-tarantino.md
Podcast: [Adventures in the Heart of Children's Book Authors Podcast](https://stenobird.com/podcast/adventures-in-the-heart-of-children-s-book-authors-podcast-6727412)
Published: 2026-06-02T11:30:00+00:00
Episode link: https://kaboosetherockymountainbear.com/podcasts/kris-tarantino-is-the-author-of-bedslime-blues-and-be-my-valenslime
Audio file: https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/04412ebf-58a0-4411-8d54-e5d627486b74.mp3
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JSON: https://stenobird.com/v1/public/podcasts/adventures-in-the-heart-of-children-s-book-authors-podcast-6727412/episodes/how-to-land-a-traditional-children-s-book-deal-insider-secrets-from-kris-tarantino
Duration seconds: 3572

## Resource

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 and a deeply gratifying reality now achieved. Kris elaborates on the challenges faced in breaking into the traditional publishing market, particularly with a respected publisher such as Penguin Random House, emphasizing the perseverance required to overcome numerous rejections over a decade. The conversation delves into the thematic essence of her works, highlighting how 'Be My ValenSlime', her debut book, explores the concept of love through the lens of children's perspectives, while 'Bed Slime Blues' addresses common bedtime struggles in a whimsical manner, featuring a cast of monsters that…

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