Writing Nonfiction Graphic Novels and Comics with Teresa Robeson Ep. 22

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 Transfer

12:30 Getting Started + Best Learning Resources

15:45 Scripts, Proposals & Publishing Tips

20:05 Practice Tips + Final Advice for Writers