Sharon and guest Rebecca Dolence discuss using creatures as symbols in kid lit, exploring how folklore and personal experience inform storytelling. They share insights on developing creature backstories, avoiding stereotypes, and twisting familiar tropes, while encouraging writers to innovate and deepen character symbolism in their children’s literature.Key Topics Covered:The role of creatures and symbolism in children’s literature and storytellingAvoiding stereotypes by giving creatures nuanced personalities and backstoriesHow personal experience and voice shape writing and coaching approachesUsing folklore, mythology, and animal symbolism in kid litTwisting and innovating on familiar tropes and creature archetypesVisit Rebecca online at: LinkedIn, YouTube, Instagram, SubstackAnd check out her Creature of the Month Club  and Free Villain WorksheetOther Resources:Slam Poetry WikiWhat is My Spirit Animal