Instead of starting with complex source material, Rabe begins her research for new science books in the children's section of the library. This provides a baseline of already-simplified facts and concepts, which she can then absorb and adapt into her signature rhyming style more efficiently.

After decades writing for major publishers, Rabe founded her own company to pursue innovative concepts that had been rejected, such as "dialogic reading" books with embedded questions. This move prioritized creative freedom and allowed her to bring her unique vision directly to the market.

In writing 'The 99% Invisible City,' one author focused on including the best possible individual stories, while the co-author prioritized ensuring they fit into a cohesive book structure. This creative tension forced them to justify each inclusion and resulted in a stronger, more balanced final product.

Rabe's first book deal came after she pitched a heartfelt personal story from her childhood. Though the pitch was initially met with silence, an editor recognized the universal emotional core (friendship over possessions) and asked her to adapt it for the Sesame Street character Bert, proving the power of authentic storytelling.

Random House rejected Rabe's rhyming book because they were the exclusive home of Dr. Seuss. However, her writing coincidentally used his exact rhythm and "pure rhyme" scheme. Recognizing this rare match, they immediately hired her to continue a science series Seuss had started before his death.

To maintain the Seussian universe, writers must follow two strict rules: the anapestic tetrameter rhythm must be perfect and never vary, and all end rhymes must be "pure" (e.g., migration/vacation), not "slant" rhymes (e.g., farm/barn). Making up words is an accepted workaround for difficult rhymes.

A client's budget cut forced Bierut to combine two different event invitations into one. This constraint led to an innovative reversible design that worked for both, demonstrating how limitations can foster the most elegant and memorable creative solutions.

To make the songs in her books more accessible, Rabe writes original lyrics that fit familiar tunes like "Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star." This removes the barrier of learning a new melody, encouraging parents who lack musical confidence to engage with their children through song immediately.

When writing his book, Steve Garrity hired a developmental editor who did more than proofread. The editor cut 40% of the text and restructured the entire story to begin at the emotional low point, rather than chronologically. This highlights that an editor's greatest value can be in re-architecting the narrative for maximum impact.