I've been thinking a great deal about world building. It's an odd phrase, really. Sounds more like a subject for the Geneva Convention than the concern of novelists. But if you write fantasy, world building is key.

Currently, I'm at work on a middle grade novel featuring mice as the main characters. And although I don't have the daunting task of creating an entire universe with its own class, culture, government, technology, botany and imagined creatures that many high fantasy middle grade and YA authors do, it's still vitally important that the world in which my mice exist be plausible and interesting.

There are a number of questions I must answer in order to avoid causing the reader stop and ask them, too.

First, is the issue of scale. How do the mice interact with larger animals in the story in a believable way? Will my characters and plot follow the natural order of our world, or will it break those rules with a purpose?

What about clothing? How do I integrate clothes into the story so that it seems perfectly natural that a mouse would don a trench coat and fedora?

And the most important question of all: Is this an alternate universe where mice rule the day, or are they an adjunct, hidden part of a larger human world?

Believe it or not, when I first began writing this novel, I hadn't decided the answer to that question. It's only now, in the editing and rewriting stage, that I'm fully addressing (and sometimes grappling with) that issue.

And whenever I'm grappling with some aspect of craft, I find it helps me to look to the masters for inspiration.

Here are a few authors who build "critter worlds" like nobody's business.

EB White, Stuart Little

Mary Norton, The Borrowers


















Robert C. O'Brien, Mrs. Frisby and The Rats of NIMH




















Richard Adams, Watership Down




















Kenneth Grahame, The Wind In The Willows

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The Q&A portion of a school visit is always an enlightening, entertaining experience.

Time and time again, I find myself impressed and delighted by the intelligent, incisive questions even very young children ask. Questions about process, inspiration and creativity that reaffirm what I already know: Kids are infinitely clever, and we as authors and educators should never underestimate them.

Which is why I was not surprised when at a recent school visit, a little boy raised his hand and asked: "How much do you get paid for a book?"

I was not surprised, but not exactly prepared, either. First, I made an attempt at humor.

"A million dollars," I said, with my pinky to my chin, doing my best "Dr Evil" impression.

[Crickets]

These kids are in first grade. They're too young for Mike Meyers.

Then I gave the standard and probably all-too-confusing answer about how a publisher pays the author some money in advance of the book coming out, which is based on a guess of how many books the publisher thinks will sell. Then, if a book sells more than what they guess, the author gets paid a small amount on each book sold after that.

[Huh?]

I tried to move on, but the little boy was undeterred. And on to me.

"But how much do you make for a book you write?" he asked.

"It varies, depending on the length of the book."

This is true. Sort of.

Then it hit me. He didn't really want a dollar amount. (Well, probably he did.) But what his infinitely clever little mind was actually trying to work out was: Can I do this as my job?

To which my answer was, "I can tell you this, Chris and I make our living creating books for kids, and it's the best job on earth."

The little boy smiled, and I did too. Because it's true.

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Jane Yolen says the secret to her prolific writing lies in three little letters: BIC. An acronym for "Butt in Chair."

My former editor Patti Gauch told me the same thing. Write every day. Some days it will flow, some days in won't, but the key is showing up.

Today, I'm one step closer to fully committing to BIC. It wasn't an easy decision, but I'll soon be resigning from my post as Events Planner for Barrington Books. Anyone who knows me, knows how dearly I love this book store -- the staff, the customers, the incredible children's section -- all of it. In the last four years, I've made cherished friends, met amazing authors, and have enjoyed being a small part of helping this little neighborhood gem grow into a bona fide "Destination Store."

Sometimes, though, the path forward becomes clear. My husband (and picture book-partner) Chris, recently signed on to do a new project. It will mean longer hours for him, and needing to look at the balance of our work schedules in a new way.

So, if there was ever a time to leap, it's now.

Every experience shapes us as writers, and I have no doubt my experiences and the people I've met at Barrington Books will make their way into a future story. (One that takes place in an enchanted bookstore, perhaps? Hmmm.)

Until then, you know where to find me. I'll be here, at my desk..."BIC."

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A friend gave me a wonderful piece of advice today.

We were talking about self-confidence and silencing the little voice that tells you you're not good enough, smart enough, talented enough, etc.

Writers are notorious for letting this voice get in the way of their work. Starting it, finishing it, touting it, or all of the above.

She advised me to create a figurative "Board of Directors" for my life. A circle of people I hold in my mind who nurture, encourage and inspire me, but never criticize. The best part is, I don't even have to know them personally. (Yes, Oprah Winfrey can be on my board.)

Nor does a board have to be comprised of those in the here and now. The deceased qualify. This was a revelation to me because my mom, who passed away last year, was my best sounding board and biggest champion. The idea of her as "Chairman" (or chairwoman, as the case may be) of my board is a lovely, powerful thought.

The only requirement for my Board of Directors, is that they be people who surround me in positive, encouraging light--either in how the treat me, the messages they put forth to the world, or how I remember them.

So when doubt creeps in, as it is wont to do, or I'm in a situation where I feel somehow "less than," I can consult with these trusted individuals, know that they believe in me, and move forward.

Creating my Board of Directors has been enlightening. I must say, I'm quite happy to have them around.

Go ahead, try it. Who's on yours?

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This morning, my thoughts are on school visits, due in part, to the wonderful presentation I listened to by Alexis O'Neill over the weekend at Whispering Pines Writers' Retreat. Alexis writes the column for the SCBWI Bulletin, "The Truth About School Visits" and she gave us some great tips for creating or revamping a school visit program.

Another reason school visits are on my mind is this is Reading Week season, and I'm preparing to visit the Hathaway School in Portsmouth, RI on April 4th, along with my husband, Chris. We'll be unveiling a short film about kids and books we created with the help of videographer Adam Wasilewski, some wonderful kid volunteers, and the Providence Athenaeum.

Starting an assembly program with a film is, on the one hand, passive, but if it gets the kids laughing and warmed up (which I hope our film will), then it can be a nice ice-breaker.

One thing that's important, especially with a younger audience, is to get them involved interactively in the presentation right away, and not just be a talking head in front of the room.

Some authors take a more theatrical approach, such as bringing puppets or the playing an instrument -- but if that's not quite your style (puppets make me break out in a cold sweat, for instance) there is always an opportunity to recite a poem, sing a song, or play a rhyming game.

In the short time I've been doing school visits, one thing I realized is you have to be yourself, and this is something Alexis stressed in her presentation too. Figure out what you comfortable with, what makes you unique, and play to your strengths.

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This past weekend, I had the pleasure to attend Whispering Pines Writers' Retreat.

As a retreat "newbie" I was nervous, but excited, to be spending two-and-a-half days away from the responsibilities of home, kids, work, press releases, etc., to focus on my works-in-progress, meet other writers, listen, learn and be inspired.

Happy to have friend and fellow Barrington-based children's author, Jamie Michalak, as my retreat-buddy, we set off like Thelma & Louise (minus the convertible and armed-robbery), with our bags packed and the sun dipping in the late afternoon sky.

A short while later, we turned onto the long, winding road of Whispering Pines. Cozy cottages nestled beside a picturesque pond greeted us, and both Jamie and I commented that it was hard to believe we were still in Rhode Island. We'd traveled only 30 minutes, but already felt a world away from our daily routines.

As the the rest of the weekend unfolded, we discovered that a beautiful setting is just one of many things that makes the Whispering Pines Writers' Retreat so special.

Charlesbridge Editorial Director Yolanda Scott shared with us her thoughts on winning picture books in her presentation on Character, Plot and Voice.

Jo Knowles, author of LESSONS FROM A DEAD GIRL, JUMPING OFF SWINGS, PEARL and the forthcoming SEE YOU AT HARRY'S discussed elements of a great beginning in her First Pages workshop.

Delacorte's VP Executive Editor Michelle Poploff recounted the road to publication for several of her most successful debut novelists, including Clare Vanderpool, author of the Newbery Awarding-winning MOON OVER MANIFEST.

Literary Agent Andrea Cascardi of TransAtlantic Literary Agency, in encouraging us to keep the faith, delivered perhaps my favorite mantra of the weekend (borrowed from a colleague): "Revise and persist!"

Alexis O'Neill, author of LOUD EMILY, THE RECESS QUEEN and ESTELA'S SWAP, flew in from California to give us all a lively and information-packed presentation on successful school visits.

Award-winning illustrator Suzanne Bloom dazzled us with daring displays of artistic acumen in her presentation on picture books.

Some of my favorite moments came each night when the mentors and writers gathered around the tall stone fireplace to listen to First Pages. Electricity filled the air as the anonymous first pages were read aloud, and then critiqued by our mentors.

And of course, there was the FOOD. Anyone who attends Whispering Pines and blogs about it, no doubt dedicates a full paragraph to the food. I will sum it up this way: Gorgonzola Gnocchi. Enough said.

I could go on. There was so much more. From Jo Knowles' insightful and generous critique of my middle-grade manuscript, to the infectious enthusiasm of Conference Director Lynda Mullally Hunt

6 Comments on The Pines Have Spoken, last added: 3/27/2012

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Every year just before Halloween, my local hometown bookstore gathers a group of regional picture book, middle grade, and young adult authors and illustrators for a day of signings, spooky stories and treats!

I come to this event as an author, and I'm always honored to be a part of it, but also as a FAN of all the wonderful authors and artists we have in our area.

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Back-to-school means more time for writing. Sort of. My 6 1/2 month old who is currently napping as I sit tapping doesn't exactly conform to a set writing schedule, but at least I have these stolen moments to stew in my creative juices, to brainstorm, to ponder to... to... procrastinate.

Yes, the more time I have, the more creative ways I can find for procrastination - a common hazard of the self-employed.

Here's something fun to mention while procrastinating... I have added a few autumnal book signings to my website. Click HERE for the schedule.

Ooooh, and I've also at last created a facebook page for my books HERE.  Please stop by and click the like button if you want another way to know what I'm up to, as I'll be making event and book announcements there too.

Now, back to those creative juices. That reminds me, I'm thirsty. And hungry. I think it's time for a snack break.  ;-)

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Yes, baby number three came screaming into the world in early March, making our quartet a quintet.

She is healthy, beautiful and strong and we all fell hopelessly in love with her the minute her petite little fists grasped our pinkies. Babies truly are pure joy and love, and in those first few bleary but wonderful weeks I felt a peace and contentment that was unto itself—an awareness of my blessings and a sense that my family is complete.

Then of course, the crying began.

Everyone (and I mean everyone) told us the third child is always the easiest. Some universal law, they explained, dictates that that baby no. 3 will generally cry less, sleep more, and go with the flow simply because of birth order and a survival instinct that prepares them for having parents whose attention is split three ways.

So imagine our surprise when we found ourselves pacing the rug with an over-stimulated, gassy, fussy 4-week-old who wouldn't let us put her down. It's bad enough when no manner of rocking, bouncing swaddling or singing will soothe your newborn, but the idea that your baby is somehow violating the laws of  the universe just adds insult to injury if you ask me.

Living with a fussy baby can turn even the most functional of families into grouchy, unbathed, take-out-addicted zombies, and for a little while, that was us. But slowly and steadily we have adjusted, finding our way through the haze of sleep deprivation into a rhythm that works with our new family of five.

Roles were adjusted (my husband learned how to tie ponytails and pick out tutus), responsibilities shifted (my older daughters can now load a dishwasher and vacuum their rooms) and daily routines were established that help calm all of us, not just our sweet wee beastie.

The crying has subsided for the most part and has been replaced by full night's of sleep (almost) smiles, coos and those glorious first giggles. The peaceful feeling is returning (at least until the next growth spurt).

As we emerge on the other side of those harrowing three months, I have actually, unbelievably began writing again, and have returned to my post as the "story lady" and author event coordinator at the bookstore. If you'd asked me a month ago when I would pick up the pen again I'd have said, "When she's 18."

I've discovered I'm a better writer when there's peace in my soul, but chaos in my kitchen. Life and all its crazy is what gives me motivation and inspiration to create. The good, the bad... and the spit up.

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Ok, some of you may know Chris and I expecting our third baby ANY DAY NOW!

So in the story corner, as I bid a temporary farewell to my terrific "story kids" (sniff, sniff) while I take a two-month maternity leave, we read books all about babies to celebrate the impending big event!

If you are welcoming a new member to your family, or know a little person who is expecting a sibling soon, here are a few of my most highly recommended reading selections to get them excited and help them feel reassured.

CRAFT SUGGESTION:
After your baby-themed storytime, follow it up with a sweet "little peas in a pod" craft using  green craft foam and light green card stock.  We simply traced the pea pod shape onto the foam and cut it out, then cut out several little circles for the peas and glued it all together.  Then, we drew faces on the peas, and even gave one a "lock of hair" to make them look like "baby peas."

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Time for some shameless nepotism -- my husband, illustrator Christopher Denise, has a new book coming out with esteemed author J. Patrick Lewis exactly one month from today!

Tugg & Teeny is the first book in an utterly charming early reader series from Sleeping Bear Press about two best friends Tugg (a gorilla) and Teeny (a monkey) in their neighborhood jungle.

I saw the characters for this little gem come to life in Chris' studio, and I must say, it's some of my favorite work he's done to date.  So expressive are the faces, so pitch perfect the body language, Chris captures the essence of each animal and infuses it with the author's delightful and witty intentions for the character.

In stores March 2nd, 2011!

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Yes, the blizzards just keep on coming here in New England, and if you live in the south, you see the shots of our snow dappled branches on TV and think "Snow, how pretty."  But if you live here and have shoveled your driveway out for the umpteenth time and have to navigate your car around streets with 15-foot high snow drifts left by the plows, I believe you probably replaced the adjective "pretty" with a a few other choice words. ;-)

In fact, we're even tired of snow in the story corner!  We've done snowmen and snowflakes and blizzards and winter so many times this season... I knew that despite yesterday's story hour coming on the heels of yet another big snowfall, I just HAD to change it up.  So, we read MOOSE books.  (I know, we should have done beach books, or sunshine, or coral reefs but given we likely have at least two more solid months of winter conditions ahead of us here in the north, that REALLY would have been depressing, don't you think?)

And besides, who doesn't love a great big goofy Moose?

Here are some of our spectacular Moose reading selections/suggestions.  They are all good, but I listed them in order of my favorites:

1. “Ernest the Moose Who Doesn’t Fit” by Catherine Rayner
2. “If You Give A Moose a Muffin” by Laura Numeroff
3. “Chocolate Mousse” by Maggie Kneen
4. “Moose on the Loose” by Kathi-Jo Wargin
5. “Thidwick The Big-Hearted Moose” by Dr. Seuss

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Just like moons and like suns

With the certainty of tides,

Just like hopes springing high,

Still I rise.

- Maya Angelou

The second half of 2010 brought personal challenges like nothing I've had to face before.  Namely, my mother's very serious illness.  But it has also given me moments of grace and understanding; moments where my family and I have had to pull together, be strong, have faith... rise.

Anger, worry, heartbreak, exhaustion... they are all still there, they don't really go away, but amidst those emotions, I feel gratitude.  I find that everything feels more precious: my family, my children, my  friends, and yes, my writing pulls me up from underneath back into the light.

It's a curious thing, to write through hardship.  It would seem that in times of great stress, there would be nothing left of my creative self to give.  But I'm discovering that writing is not only my passion, but my lifeline.  Journal entries, sessions where I dig in and lose myself in the story are powerfully cathartic.

Instead, what has fallen away are the trivial details of life that I once felt so caught up in.  It's not how I'd choose to learn the lesson of what truly matters, but it's a powerful lesson nonetheless.

So I still get up, kiss the tops of my little girl's heads, find a quiet space—and write.

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Ok, must keep this brief, because like most people, I'm up against the "too-much-to-do, too-little-time" holiday crunch.  This year, I'm trying to keep a clear head, remember what's important, and not sweat the small stuff.

So what is important?

Family.  Friends.  Health.  Happiness. Gratitude.  Service.

And stories.  Stories that make you feel something... that bring you back to Christmases past, that whisk you away on a magical sleigh, that evoke joy, and hope... and love.

Merry Christmas, everyone!


Here's a list of my top 10 (current) favorite holiday books.  What are some of your favorites?

1. The Christmas Magic by Lauren Thompson; illus. by John Muth
2. How The Grinch Stole Christmas by Dr. Seuss
3. Olive The Other Reindeer by Otto Seibold
4. Santa Calls by Bill Joyce
5. The Night Before Christmas by Clement C. Moore
6. Santa Duck by David Milgrim
7. There's A Train Out For Dreamland by Jane and Brooke Dyer
8. The Polar Express by Chris Van Allsburg
9. Duck and Goose, It's Time For Christmas by Tad Hills
10. The Snowman by Raymond Briggs

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Bob Shea is leading the kids through some truly stellar dinosaur "roars" during a read-aloud of his new book "Dinosaur vs. Potty," a hilarious play-by-play of one little dinosaur's battle to resist going you-know-what, in the you-know-where.  The story bounces along with Bob Shea using his best boxing ring announcer's voice to repeat the refrain, "Dinosaur wins!" at the end of each spread.  Kids roar, and giggle, then roar some more - and the book concludes.

That's when Chris Raschka, Caldecott medalist and all around cool dude, leans over to me and whispers, "So, who wins?  I couldn't see the pictures, is it the dinosaur or the potty?"
"I think the Dinosaur went  in the potty... so I guess they both win," I say.
"I should save my questions till the end," says Chris with a wry grin.
"Yeah, we should probably stop all this potty talk," I say.

Left to right: Chris Denise; Anika Denise; Chris Raschka

This is why I love doing group signings.  Picture book authors tend to be down to earth, funny, frequently irreverent folks, content with the good fortune of being able to do what they love for a living.  This past weekend Chris and I signed at Books of Wonder in NY, alongside Jane Dyer (A Train To Dreamland) Tad Hills (How Rocket Learned To Read), Maira Kalman (The Pursuit of Happiness), Laurie Keller (Birdy's Smile Book), Chris Raschka (Little Black Crow), and Bob Shea (Dinosaur vs. Potty).

What struck me (besides the fact that all these authors are amazing, talented folks and I was honored to be counted among them) was the palpable appreciation for one another's work.  The authors were clearly having just as much fun as the audience during the read-alouds.

Equally cool was hearing all the behind-the-scenes chatter about everyone's book projects, how they developed, where they are doing signings, what other artists they admire, how they promote their titles, etc.  For me, an author relatively new to the industry, it was a fascinating and fabulous experience.

Next signing stop: Tomorrow! Saturday Dec. 11th: Where The Sidewalks Ends in Chatham, MA (on Cape Cod)  10a - 12p.  Big Stella will be joining us (and rumor has it the mouse from "If You Give A Mouse A Cookie" will be in the house too); they'll be a holiday stroll going on, hot chocolate, a cozy fireplace, and of course: books, books, books.  Come see us!

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Here it is... unveiled, unleashed, uncorked and unwrapped!

My "Best of 2010" Story Hour Picks List (and Holiday Gift Guide).  For those of you who are local, Barrington Books, where I host a weekly Thursday morning story hour, has the list printed out and the books in stock!