Podcast: Play in new window | Download
Subscribe: RSS
From a kitchen-table sketchbook to bestseller status, children’s author-illustrator Nadia Shireen has turned playful doodles into stories that families read on repeat.
In this episode Nadia opens her toolbox – revealing why a strict 32-page format, a perfectly timed page-turn and the odd shocking punchline are all part of the magic of a picture book.
Episode summary
Nadia Shireen
Nadia Shireen is an award-winning British children’s author and illustrator whose hit titles include Good Little Wolf, The Bumblebear, The Cow Who Fell to Earth and the bestselling Billy series. Her bold artwork, mischievous humour and refusal to patronise young readers have earned her a devoted following among children, parents and booksellers alike.
In conversation with Mark McGuinness, Nadia explains how she balances words and pictures, respects the emotional intelligence of her audience and squeezes maximum impact from every spread.
Big ideas in this conversation
- Two stories at once – text and image should complement, not duplicate, opening a ‘gap’ the reader joyfully fills.
- The 32-page constraint – a fixed length forces clarity, pace and inventive page-turns.
- Respecting children’s feelings – young readers can handle surprise, tension and nuance if you trust them.
- Pacing through design – intricate artwork slows the reader; white space accelerates action.
- Self-amusement keeps the work fresh – in-jokes (a Bowie-inspired cow, for instance) sustain creative joy.
Advice worth hearing in full
- Research your market – know whether you’re writing a picture book, middle-grade or YA before you pitch.
- Use limits as levers – constraints such as page count or trim size can spark originality instead of stifling it.
- Re-discover play – spend 30 minutes doodling with no goal to loosen up a tense creative mind.
Where next?
Explore more of Nadia’s work at nadiashireen.org, follow her lively commentary on Twitter or browse limited-edition prints in her Etsy shop.
About The 21st Century Creative podcast
Hosted by creative coach and award-winning poet Mark McGuinness, The 21st Century Creative podcast helps you succeed as a creative professional amid the demands, distractions and opportunities of the 21st century.
Each episode features insights from Mark and interviews with outstanding creators – including artists, writers, performers, commercial creatives, directors, producers, entrepreneurs and other creative thought-leaders.
Make sure you receive every episode by subscribing in Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you listen.
Join the mailing list to have every episode delivered to your inbox, along with the free 21st Century Creative Foundation Course.
