March 2025

Actions Speak Louder: Crafting Character Interiority in MG & YA


<p>How do we create space for introspection in middle grade and YA while keeping readers engaged? In this talk, Maria Marianayagam, author of the acclaimed <i>No Purchase Necessary,&nbsp;</i>will delve into the art of showcasing interiority through action. Discover how to weave your character’s thoughts, emotions, and growth seamlessly into their external activities to keep up your pacing and make your storytelling vivid and relatable for young readers. Featuring examples from Maria's own work and other celebrated MG and YA titles, this session is perfect for aspiring and seasoned authors looking to deepen their craft. Join us for actionable insights and inspiration to make your characters’ inner worlds shine!</p>

Lecture replays are available after the free trial ends. To end your trial early, email brooke@inkedvoices.com .

About Lecturer

About Maria Marianayagam

Maria Marianayagam is a Tamil Sri Lankan-Canadian engineer turned children’s book author. She was born in India and grew up in Nigeria and four provinces across Canada. She fell in love with children’s books (again!) after becoming an Amma (mom). Maria enjoys writing lyrical picture books centered on STEM, faith, and South Asian culture, as well as high-concept middle grade grounded in culture. She is the author of the Baby Virtues board book series and picture books, The Amazing Power of Girls and Wait 'Til You're Older. Her most recent book No Purchase Necessary debuted in January with four starred reviews.