editors speak

Interview with POPCORN EDITOR, CHARLENE COLEMAN

As reported in last month’s Inside Markets, POPCORN Magazine for Kids is re-launching. The magazine’s goal is to encourage an interest in reading and the arts while nourishing the creative and inquisitive nature that most children have. As Editor Charlene Coleman says, “This magazine will be energetic and lively with lots of surprises, all mixed with science stories, and other creative writings from freelance individuals.”

Since the re-launch sounded so exciting and they’re open to freelance, Kid Magazine Writers wanted to know more! We’re thrilled to reconnect with Ms. Coleman and get more details.

KMW: What made you decide to re-launch POPCORN? In what ways will the magazine itself be different this time?
CC: I decided to re-launch POPCORN after doing an intensive study over the past two years. To be honest, I was encouraged by friends, previous POPCORN Kids with children of their own, and business associates.

We have created Popcornville, an imaginative village where POPCORN characters live. Numerous adventures involve these characters which have been fully illustrated. POPCORN will be in full color on every page. We also have an updated Captain Space and another series called, Dreamworld. Because kids are into fashions and technology, in order to keep their attention on the remainder of the magazine, we will write about the latest kid's games, cds, and clothing items. POPCORN will always encourage children not to follow the crowd.

KMW: I know part of POPCORN's mission is to nourish the creative side of children -- will that translate into using craft articles from freelancers? If so -- what kinds of projects would interest you? And for activities like science activities -- are there any things writers should keep in mind to make the projects appeal to you?
CC: The projects should be original, creative, not require expensive materials, and definitely not dangerous. Limit the use of electrical projects, or those requiring the use of the stove or fire. There should be room for laughs, if the project does not turn out exactly as stated. Directions should be simple and easy to follow, for all ages. And, the project should not take long.

KMW: Will POPCORN be a market for puzzles, riddles, and other small fillers? If so, what sorts are you especially open to?
CC: Yes. All sorts! But mainly for kids 7-14 years.

KMW: How will POPCORN be distributed -- can we find it on the newsstand?
CC: Hard copy POPCORN will be distributed in some schools and eventually over a secure POPCORN website.

KMW: What kind of fiction is of interest to POPCORN?
CC: POPCORN is interested in different types of fiction where the main character(s) overcome obstacles, by their own efforts, through positive thinking, creative ideas and the ability to stick to the task until the job is done. We encourage different types of creative thinking and the fact that there are often more ways than one to solve a problem. We also like to teach without preaching.

KMW: Now for the stray bits -- does POPCORN pay? What rights do you purchase? Do you use contracts? How often will you publish?
CC: POPCORN does not pay today, but we plan on paying by the first of the year, when our website is up. We don't use contracts but we can. POPCORN will publish every other month, initially. It is a bi-monthly.

KMW: how do you like submissions sent?
CC: Submissions can be sent over the net to cwcoleman1@comcast.net, or in hard copy to:

POPCORN Magazine
8320 Brookfield Road
Richmond, VA 23227

KMW: I know you have an issue upcoming on Jamestown and historical Virginia
-- that's a great curriculum related theme. Will you keep school curriculum in mind as you plan themes?
CC: Yes, we will keep school curriculum in mind, even though that is not our primary goal. We have tons of ideas slated, but have not made definite decisions.

KMW: Will POPCORN have a website?
CC: Yes, it is under construction and will be intricate.

KMW: Do you have writer's guidelines?
CC: Writer's guidelines have just been completed.

This page last updated on 01 November 2006