Episode
Writing Nonfiction Graphic Novels and Comics with Teresa Robeson Ep. 22
- Published
- May 1, 2026
- Duration seconds
- 1961
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Summary
What if your next nonfiction project isn’t a picture book—or even prose—but a graphic novel? In this episode of Nonfiction Kidlit Craft Conversations, host Kirsten W. Larson talks with award-winning author Teresa Robeson about how to write nonfiction graphic novels for kids. Teresa shares practical tips, industry insights, and creative strategies for turning real stories into visual, page-turning nonfiction. Whether you write picture books, middle grade, or YA nonfiction, this conversation will help you explore a fast-growing format in children’s publishing and give you clear steps to get started. In this episode, you’ll learn: *Why nonfiction writers should consider graphic novels right now *Key differences between graphic novels, picture books, and prose nonfiction *How to structure scenes, panels, and page turns *What skills transfer from traditional nonfiction writing *How to write a graphic novel script (no drawing required!) *What to include in a nonfiction graphic novel proposal *Tips for research, visual storytelling, and working with illustrators *Beginner-friendly resources to learn the craft Teresa also shares her favorite graphic nonfiction mentor texts, advice for getting started, and encouragement for writers ready to try something new. 📚 Mentioned in this episode: Understanding Comics by Scott McCloud Making Comics by Scott McCloud The Art of Comic Book Writing by Mark Kneece Kids Comics Unite (writing community) 00:00 Hook: Why Try Nonfiction Graphic Novels? 00:32 Welcome + Meet Teresa Robeson 01:10 How Teresa Got Started in Graphic Novels 02:05 Why Graphic Novels Are Booming 03:05 What Makes a Story Work Visually 05:30 Key Differences from Picture Books & Prose 08:10 Writing in Panels: Concision & Page Turns 10:05 Research + Skills That Transfe…