BONUS: How to Write Funny Books With Heart: Adam Rosenbaum on Middle Grade Craft

Send us a text In this bonus episode of Writers With Wrinkles, Beth and Lisa talk with Adam Rosenbaum about how he blends laugh-out-loud comedy with emotionally meaningful storytelling. Writers will learn how humor lowers a reader’s defenses, why kids crave funny books, and how to handle heavy topics without overwhelming young readers. Guest Bio Adam Rosenbaum is the author of The Ghost Rules and the upcoming illustrated series Lawson History Stumbling Through Time (Sourcebooks, 2027). A former sawmill operator and draftsman, he now writes heartfelt, funny middle grade fiction in Nashville, where he lives with his family. Instagram: @rosenbaumwrites Key Discussion PointsWhy humor helps kids engage with challenging themesHow Amblin-era storytelling shaped Adam’s voiceWriting comedy without talking down to readersLetting humor open space for grief, empathy, and emotional truth“Backpack books”: the titles kids reread and carry everywhereHandling heavy topics with care and clarityAdam’s upcoming time-travel adventure series Conclusion Adam reminds writers that humor isn’t a lesser art—it’s a bridge. When paired with heart and honesty, it helps kids navigate big feelings while keeping them invested in the story. 🎧 Subscribe & Connect Subscribe, rate, and review Writers With Wrinkles wherever you listen. Send questions to writerswithwrinkles.net or find us on Instagram @writerswithwrinkles. Support the show Visit the Website Writers with Wrinkles Link Tree for socials and more!