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From aspiring biochemist to bestselling author, Kwame Alexander's literary journey is nothing short of inspiring. What if a single college poetry class could alter the course of your career? For Kwame, that moment came with Nikki Giovanni at Virginia Tech. Kwame reveals how this pivotal experience ignited his passion for writing, ultimately leading him to self-publish 13 books before his Newbery Medal win in 2015 catapulted him into the realm of traditional publishing. Join us as Kwame shares the trials and triumphs of his path, offering a roadmap of persistence and self-belief for budding authors.

Navigating the tangled web of the publishing industry is a challenge, and Kwame's quest for the perfect literary agent is a testament to resilience. We take you through his story of searching for representation, from initial disappointments to finding a business partner in Ariel, a retired agent who believed in his vision. This journey culminated in an unforgettable early morning call announcing his Newbery triumph. Kwame opens up about the power of confidence and surrounding oneself with supportive individuals, exemplifying how perseverance can turn 25 years of hard work into a seemingly overnight success.

Kwame's creativity continues to flourish with projects that engage and inspire. He shares the backstory of ”Black Star” and the fulfilling process of bringing his stories into different mediums, like an animated PBS series and a Broadway musical adaptation. Listen as he reflects on balancing multiple projects and staying true to his artistic vision, while offering valuable advice for storytellers everywhere. His insights on the importance of creativity, impactful storytelling, and the joy of inspiring young readers are sure to resonate with writers and creatives seeking their own path to success.

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🎙️ Craft Chat Chronicles with J.D. Myall
Candid conversations on writing, publishing, and creative life — featuring bestselling authors, MFA students, and writers at every stage of the journey.

About J.D. Myall
J.D. Myall is the co-chair of Drexel University’s MFA Alumni Association and a publishing and library professional. She is the creator and host of Craft Chat Chronicles, where she interviews authors, agents, and industry insiders about the art and business of writing.

Her work has appeared in Ms. Magazine, Writer’s Digest, and HuffPost. Her debut novel, Heart’s Gambit, releases with Wednesday Books/Macmillan in February 2026.

When she’s not conjuring magic, murder, and mayhem on the page, J.D. mentors emerging writers through workshops and alumni programs, fostering community among aspiring and published authors alike.

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