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Most people believe that chameleons change color in response to their surroundings. Instead, chameleons change color based on temperature, health, light intensity, and mood-- much like my main character in my eBook, Casey Chameleon.
"Casey thinks someone has stolen her special feather and she finds herself turning red with anger. Can she manage to turn green again? A story about learning to manage emotions. Young readers will identify with Casey's feelings and fall in love with her playfulness and determination."
While a chameleon's mood can affect its colors, the colors of our environment can affect people's moods. When we see a field of bright sunflowers, we feel livelier and happy.
When we see grey clouds, we instinctively feel gloomy.
Artists use colors to evoke emotion, communicate mood, or enhance meaning. As writers, why not create an environment of colors that promote creativity?
Below is a list of colors and its effect it can have on us:
RED stirs up excitement and stimulates our heart rate and breathing. It can also stimulate conversation. Red is also known to spikes our attention and alertness.
YELLOW is energizing and uplifting. It communicates happiness and can stimulate memory. But too much yellow tend to create feelings of frustration and anger.
BLUE is calming, relaxing, and serene. It can promote imagination and intuitive thinking. Encourages exploration and boosts creativity. But dark blue can evoke feelings of sadness.
GREEN also has a calming effect like blue. It encourages unwinding and promotes comfort and togetherness. It helps relieve stress and controls anxiety.
PURPLE is associated with creativity and luxury. Lighter shades of purple have a restful quality.
ORANGE is an energizing color that evokes excitement and enthusiasm. It stimulates appetite and encourages conversation.
If you will excuse me, I'm going to paint my room with colors that inspire my creative muse- blue with purple stripes and a splash of yellow in preparation for my February picture book draft for 12 x 12 with Julie Hedlund!
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| My Creative Wall |
What colors would you use on your wall?--------------------------------------------------------------References:http://psychdigest.com/colors-influence-mood/http://www.artyfactory.com/color_theory/color_theory_3.htmhttp://tlc.howstuffworks.com/home/color-of-room-affect-mood.htmhttp://www.vcstar.com/news/2013/feb/05/scientists-find-colors-can-affect-focus-and/http://www.pbs.org/edens/madagascar/creature3.htmhttp://www.nwf.org/Kids/Ranger-Rick/Animals/Amphibians-and-Reptiles/Chameleons.aspx
San Francisco is buzzing with excitement!
- They are still basking in the glory of the Giants' 2 world Series wins
- The 49ers are playing in the Superbowl tomorrow
and...Punxsutawney Phyllis is in town!
About Punxsutawney Phyllis:Phyllis is the star of two of her own children's picture books- Punxsutawney Phyllis and April Fool, Phyllis! She loves to "splash in the cold river in springtime, roast in the summer sun, and tromp through the winter snow."
Susanna Leonard Hill, her creator, sent Phyllis on a worldwide tour to celebrate Groundhog Day. She arrived in San Francisco with all smiles. Phyllis couldn't wait to get the day started. Since it is Groundhog Day, Phyllis wanted me to give you San Francisco's morning weather report:
Temperature: 56 degreesPrecipitation: 0%Humidity: 72%Wind: 7 mphPartly cloudy
I told Phyllis to get ready because we're going to Candlestick Park- Home of the San Francisco 49ers!
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| Overcast skies above Candlestick Park |
It's a good thing Phyllis packed her PINK because it so happens that she'll be joining me in the Dirty Girl Mud Run to benefit the National Breast Cancer Foundation.  |
| Phyllis sporting PINK |
Our Dirty Girl Team voted Phyllis as team captain. Go Team! |
| Team Phyllis: "Let's get dirty!" |
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| Phyllis taking a breather and drying off her soiled overalls |
While Phyllis had a blast at the mud run, she is happy to be back home with her host family. Most of the morning was cloudy and she never got to see her shadow. No shadow means an early spring for San Francisco. But wait....
...is that a shadow? |
| Punxsutawney Phyllis finally sees her shadow |
Looks like the clouds finally parted, but it's a bit too late since it is already late in the afternoon. Phyllis decides to take a long bubble bath to wash away the sweat and grime of today's event.
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| Bath time with rubber ducky |
Be sure to stop by Susanna Leonard Hill's blog to follow Phyllis' journey. Thank you, Punxsutawney Phyllis for spending the time with me in San Francisco on Groundhog Day!
Phyllis says:
and
I'm going to sub my PB MS with a WC of 450 to an OP
If you are a new writer wandering around the blogosphere of kidlit writers, some of the acronyms being spewed out may seem foreign to you. I call it writer’s language.
To help you get integrated into the "inner circle," I've compiled a translation guide. Learning the terminology will help get you by so you won’t feel lost in a conversation. The following is a list of common words used in the writing industry.
MG: middle grade novel (ages 8-12)
YA: young adult (ages 12 & up)
MC: main character
OP: online publisher
WC: word count
MS: manuscript
MSS: manuscripts (plural)
PB: picture book
ARC: advance reader copies (looks very close to what the final version of a book will look like in final publication. The term ARC can be used interchangeably with “galley” (an old-school publishing term)
Illo: illustration notes
sub: submit
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| How do you like my illo? I drew it myself. |
Here are a few others you may want to know:
PiBoIdMo- Picture Book Idea Month, hosted by Tara Lazar. During the month of November, participants write down a story idea a day for 30 days.
RLGL- Red light, green light challenge by Cynthea Liu. Challengers send in their first page of the manuscripts up to 125 words. If you get a green light, you submit the next 125 and so on until you get a red light. The winner is the person who ends up sending in their complete manuscript.
GUTGAA- Gearing up to get an agent challenge, hosted by Deanna Barnhart. Writers send in their pitch to win an exclusive submission to an agent.
With this cheat sheet you, too, can sound like a "professional" writer. Give it a try.
I'd better get going. I want to polish my mss with 12x12. Need to work on my MC. Hoping to sub soon.
If you know of other words I may have missed, please share. I'd love to add it to the list!
I just completed the last of my series of debut author interviews for 2012. I'd like to thank all the authors for sharing their journey with me.
Sandra Feder, author of DAISY'S PERFECT WORD
Laura Murray, author of THE GINGERBREAD MAN LOOSE IN THE SCHOOL "Be true to yourself and your own story. Write from your heart and your passion." ~Sherri Duskey Rinker
- Join SCBWI and attend an SCBWI conference
- Read books on how to write for children and books in your genre
- Research the market, publishing houses, and its editors before submitting
Join and Attend an SCBWI Conference
One of the great things about joining SCBWI is the community of writers who are very supportive, and the writing resources that are available. As Karin LeFranc puts it, "Attending an SCBWI conference a wonderful way to learn the business, meet other writers, and find out what editors and agents are looking for."
The biggest benefit in attending a SCBWI conference is that editors and agents will accept submissions from conference attendees. This is a good opportunity to submit to publishers who may be closed to submission.
Sandra Feder says a face-to-face contact is the best way to get someone interested in your work. Take it from Rob Sanders. He met his editor, Diane Muldrow of Golden Book/Random House, at an SCBWI conference in Los Angeles. Diane requested he send his manuscript to her then offered him a contract. Sandra and Rob both agree that the best place to meet agents and editors in person are at conferences.
If you want to get that one-on-one meeting, Rob suggests signing up for a critique or consultation. If you're lucky, you will be paired up with an agent or editor who may be interested in your work."You'll never get published if you don't submit." ~Donna Earnhardt
Read Books on How to Write for Children and Books in your Genre
There are lots of helpful resources on writing for children at the library and online. If you study your craft, you will stand out from the slush pile. But the best way to learn how to write for children is to know and understand the readers. Reading to children helped Laura Murray understand what children liked, what they found funny, what was too long or too wordy, and more. That helped her with her book Gingerbread Man loose in the School.
Research
Do not send out a mass submission to every publisher. Amy Dixon suggests recognizing the type of book you have and targeting your submission. Study publishers before sending your manuscript to them. Research what genre they are publishing and the types of stories they are interested in. Your manuscript will fare better if your manuscript fits the publisher's list. It worked for Sherri Duskey Rinker. Chronicle Books is the first and only publisher she submitted Goodnight, Goodnight Construction Site to. She did her research, narrowed her list to one publisher, and hit the bulls-eye!
Amy Dixon did her research too and got lucky. It so happened that the editor Amy submitted to has 3 kids who run marathons. Her PB, Marathon Mouse, found its way to the perfect person.
If you want to get a hands-on approach on learning about the publishing industry, you can self-publish as Nessa Morris did. "What better way to learn about the whole process than doing it yourself," says Nessa.
All of these authors shared a unique experience. But they all possess these valuable traits:- Patience
- Hard work
- Persistence
Take it from Donna Earnhardt, "You'll never get published if you don't submit." Donna received many rejections before her picture book, Being Frank, got published.
I hope you all took away something from these group of talented authors. They were once unpublished like you. Never give up hope. You will have your chance. 2013 could be the year!
"Be free to fail. Open yourself up to critique, to rejection. don't be ruled by fear." ~Amy Dixon
Keep on writing, my friends!
A new year.
A new look.
A new attitude.
Thinking in Themes
Every year, I set a theme for myself, which guides me through the new year. It shapes how I live my life and make decisions. It helps me focus on my goals without being overwhelmed.
Here are some samples of themes I've used in the past:2008: Don't worry...be happy!2009: Live Christ-like2010: Just do it!2011: Live. Love. Laugh.2012: Think big. Think bold. Think beautiful.
A few days ago, my friend Amanda Socci introduced me to a fascinating community at OneWord365.com. Alece at OneWord365.com had a great idea to come up with One Word that sums up who you want to be or how you want to live. Here is how she describes it:What do you want to focus on in 2013 ?
It can be something tangible or intangible. It can be a thought, a feeling, an action, or a character trait. Your word will be a reminder, a nudge. Something you can reflect on, that will challenge you, that will inspire you.
Your word can be anything you want it to be. All that matters is that it has personal meaning for you.
This is your word. It needs to resonate with your heart, no one else's.
- alece -
One Word
I was thrilled to read this because this was similar to my idea of themes. The challenge, however, was for me to tighten my theme to just one word! (And I thought cutting my picture books to 500 words and keeping my tweets to 140 characters was tough.)I decided that my one word should challenge me to complete my goals. It should also remind myself to have fun in the process. My word needs to inspire me.
I anticipate 2013 to be challenging personally and professionally. So, I thought about the word ENJOY. It would remind myself to take it easy and have fun. But I didn't think it would challenge me at all. I thought about the word BREATHE, because it would calm and refresh me. But that almost seems like I am anticipating stress in my life.
Then I had an "AHA!" moment and discovered the perfect word that promotes productivity and fun.
My One Word is: CREATE
I am choosing this word because it covers a broad spectrum of ideas: Create stories
Create joy
Create memories
Create success
BTW: The badge was created by the generosity of Melanie of Only A Breath. She custom-made the badge to my personal theme and she can make one for you too if you request one from her.
Join me and pick your word that will shape you and your year. Let it help you grow."Discover the big impact one word can make" ~One Word 365
What is your One Word? Visit Only A Breath to view what others have adopted as their one word.
Happy 2013, everyone!
Since this is a new year, I want to start off right by making a confession:
I am sorry Writers, for I have sinned. I broke the blog award code of ethics. I failed to receive my award and thank my nominator in a timely manner. Please forgive me of my sins.
Because of my procrastination, I don't feel so inspiring. For my penance, I will say 3 "Thank you's" to Lauri and share 7 things I never get tired of (as required by the Very Inspiring Blogger Award- actually, we're supposed to share things about us people wouldn't know, but I like this idea better).
Thank you, Lauri Meyers.
Thank you, Lauri Meyers.
Thank you, Lauri Meyers.
BTW: I wish I could give Lauri another Very Inspiring Blogger Award from me, because she truly is inspiring. I am a fan of her blog! If you haven't, go check her out at
Lauri's Stories. Her posts are so witty, humorous, and engaging. She writes stories about her life as a writer and about her "dirty girls," who I think aren't
THAT dirty compared to my two boys.
Anyway, here are the 7 things I never get tired of:
- I never get tired of getting hugs and kisses from my two boys. My eldest is approaching his pre-teen years and I'm crossing my fingers that he'll still want to hug and kiss me.
- I never get tired of making lists. It helps unclutter my head.
- I never get tired of receiving packages in the mail. It makes it feel like Christmas every time.
- I never get tired of sleep because I never get enough of it.
- I never get tired of dessert. I should also add that I'm never too full when it comes to dessert!
- I never get tired of laughing.
- I never get tired of vacations!
As a recipient of the Very Inspiring Blogger Award, I have the honor of nominating 7 other bloggers who have inspired me. Here they are in no particular order:
http://writeroutine.blogspot.com/Marcie Colleen's shares her writing journey and her personality shines on her blog. I love her energy and charisma. Her online presences is dynamic. If it wasn't for her, I wouldn't have known about Deana Barnhart's Gearing Up to Get an Agent Challenge/Pitch Contest. And I wouldn't have had a chance to submit to Tricia Lawrence of Erin Murphy Literary Agency. Marcie inspires me by her enthusiasm.
Darshana is a Renaissance woman. She is the mother to two young girls, a full-time worker in the high-tech industry, a book reviewer, and writer/blogger (to name a few). She inspires me to manage my time so I can enjoy doing the things I love.
http://thegracefuldoe.wordpress.com/Jo Hart has an amazing blog of helpful writing sites. I am so grateful that I discovered this gem through my participation with Julie Hedlund's 12x12. Her blog is loaded with valuable tips for aspiring writers. Her passion for the written word is contagious. She has had many short stories published and has won awards. She truly inspires me.
http://www.sylvialiuland.com/Sylvia is a very talented artist/illustrator and writer. She is also quite computer savvy. She is my go-to person for blogging tips and story ideas (to name a few). I truly enjoy her illustrations. I wish I could have half her brains. Her artwork inspires my creativity.
http://alaynekaychristian.wordpress.com/ Alayne has a great blog that gives writers encouragement and tips to help us live a whole life. She inspires me to to continue to achieve my dreams of becoming a published author.
http://nessamorris.com/Nessa also has an online newspaper- Opening a Can of Bookworms Daily where she promotes and shares the work of other writers. It's full of great information and inspiration. Nessa is so generous with her time in promoting other writer's work and supporting the visually impaired. She inspires me to be a giving person.
http://jenniferjchow.blogspot.com/ I love Jennifer's blog. Her blog says it well: Fortune cookie wisdom meets an Asian-American writer's life. I love how she intertwines Asian tales and poems with her posts. Jennifer inspires me embrace my Filipino culture.http://thiskidreviewsbooks.com/ As the title says, this kid, Erik, reviews books. He blogs about them in hopes "to help other kids and grown-ups looking for books for kids, find books they like." I can't believe Erik is only 10-years-old because his book reviews are well-written and insightful. BTW, he is also active in the writing community and participates in writing challenges with the rest of us. He inspires me to be just like him when I grow up!
There are so many people in the blogging community who inspire me that I have not mentioned. You know who you are. If I've commented on your blog, even at least once, you have inspired me. If I took the time to read your blog, but for some reason have not commented, you, too, have inspired me. Thank you!
If you counted 8 blogs mentioned here, it's no mistake. I couldn't help myself.
If there is a blog that has inspires you, feel free to share the link with me.
Happy New Year!
The end of the year is always a good time to reflect on the past months. Alayne Kay Christian is challenging us to reflect on 2012 and list 31 things that we accomplished throughout the year. She suggests looking back at our successes with confidence and gratitude.
Between my triathlon training, my full time job as a dental hygienist, and my kids' busy sports schedule, I wondered how I managed to get through this year. What do I have to show for it?
A few grey hairs.
But it was all worth it. This was a year of balancing everything I love- my family and friends, my career, and my hobbies. Below is a breakdown of what I've been doing this year to help me grow as a writer. Instead of listing 31 accomplishments, I decided to break it down by months.
Here are my 2012 HighlightsJanuary
Set writing goals
February
April
May
Started my series of Debut Picture Book Author Interviews on my blog
Wrote a picture book a day for a week in my first NaPiBoWriWee (National Picture Book Writing Week), hosted by Paula Yoo
June
The community of writers, formed by our participation in the Platform Challenge in April, founded Wordsmith Studio July
SeptemberParticipated in Gearing up to Get an Agent, held by Deana Barnhart, and won a spot to submit exclusively to Erin Murphy Literary agent, Tricia Lawrence
October
Published my first picture book/eBook, Casey Chameleon, by Flying Books, Ltd. (who also happened to win an edublog award for best mobile app) NovemberParticipated in my 3rd PiBoIdMo (Picture Book Idea Month) with Tara Lazar
DecemberJoined a wonderful group of writers- Childrens Book Hub on Facebook for information, resource, and support.
Completed my first 12 x 12 in '12 and wrote 12 picture books in 12 months during 2012 with Julie Hedlund
Overall, 2012 has been a terrific year! With all the challenges I participated in, I managed to write a total of 23 picture books in a year with many more ideas yet to be fleshed out. But the one thing I am most fond of is the fact that I met so many new friends in the writing community. Maybe next year, I'll get to meet some of them in person!
A toast to accomplishments and friendships!
Please share with me your accomplishments, I'd love to hear about them. Also, visit Alayne Kay Christian's blog for more life coaching as we start the new year.
FROM PICTURE BOOK TO MIDGRADE- SANDRA'S STORY
Sandra Feder is the author of DAISY'S PERFECT WORD. I met Sandra at our local SCBWI conference in Oakland this year. She was among the panel of debut authors speaking at the event. She shared her publishing journey with the 100+ attendees. Sandra is a sweet and lovely person with a wealth of information. I wish all of you will have the chance to meet her in person as I did. For more information about Sandra, please visit her website: SandraVFeder.com
Sandra's story is a fascinating one. In this interview, you will learn:
1) How she got her first publishing deal
2) How her picture book ended up as a midgrade novel
3) What it's like to transition from writing picture books to midgrade
Welcome Sandra Feder!
How did you come up with the idea for Daisy's Perfect Word?
I noticed that my own children had fun playing with words and language when they were young. I also noticed other children enjoying making up words and using words in fun ways. One of my daughters came up with a very long name for herself, which is part of the story line of my second book. Also, I am someone who has spent her life thinking about how we use words - first as a journalist and then as an author. So creating a character who loves words seemed very natural.
Is Kids Can Press the first publisher you sent Daisy's Perfect Word to?It was but not necessarily for the reasons you might think. I had submitted a story and craft book that I wrote with an artist friend to Kids Can. Along with wonderful storybooks for kids, Kids Can also publishes craft books. I got the most lovely rejection letter from then editor-and-chief, Sheila Barry. She loved our project but didn't think it worked for their list. She offered to talk to me about what she liked, and so I set up a time to speak to her on the phone. My biggest piece of advice is to always take someone up on an offer to talk to you about your work!
After a delightful conversation, I had an opportunity to be in Toronto, where Kids Can is based, and Sheila asked me to stop by and bring some of my other work. We met and immediately hit it off. There really is no substitute for face-to-face meetings with people. That’s one reason meeting editors and agents at conferences can be so beneficial. When I met with Sheila, I showed her the very earliest version of the story, which eventually became Daisy’s Perfect Word. Fast forward many years later and that story is now a book!
Kids Can Press only accepts submissions from Canadian authors. How did you make that connection?
As I mentioned, I came to Kids Can through a different book submission but then forged a wonderful bond with Sheila. I knew it would be a hurdle for me to be published by them, as they publish very few American authors. But by then, Sheila had become a mentor, and I wasn't willing to give up on the idea of working with her. We both hoped that with the right project, we would be able to overcome the hurdle of me not being a Canadian.
Kids Can is a wonderful organization, and every person there that I’ve had the pleasure of working with has been terrific. Sheila has now moved on to become the publisher at Groundwood Books, another wonderful Canadian press. I have a new editor at Kids Can, who has been a delight to work with.
Daisy's Perfect Word started out as a picture book. Can you tell us why Sheila Barry thought it would be better as a midgrade chapter book?
Over the years of knowing each other, I had submitted many manuscripts to Sheila, but we both kept coming back to this story. One day she said she had been thinking about it and had shown it to the publisher of Kids Can, Karen Boersma. After talking about it, they thought it would work better as a chapter book. Sheila thought I would have fun expanding the characters and story. I think we both realized that my story was a narrative-driven piece, as opposed to one that had an equally strong visual component, which you need for a picture book. I found that I absolutely loved the freedom to expand the storyline and to really develop my main character and the idea of her love of words.
I know you originally had a different title for your book. Tell us why you changed it.
I originally had the name of one my daughters in the title. Initially, it helped me to create the character in the earlier versions of the book. However, when I expanded it into a chapter book, the character changed so much and I was having so much fun giving her a unique personality, that I realized it was important to give her a new name as she really was an entirely new and fictional character. Furthermore, once I changed her name, it freed me up to take the character in different directions. I might not have done that if I felt like she had to be reflective of my daughter.
Was it easy or difficult to make that switch from PB to MG?
At first it felt a bit daunting, because I had never tried to write a chapter book. But I totally trusted Sheila and realized that I had an editor and publisher who were interested in the story, so why wouldn't I want to give it a try. As I mentioned, I quickly found that I totally loved the longer format and found it very freeing. It was fun to be able to add more details as well as new characters and then to see where the story and characters took me.
Did you take any special classes or read specific books to prepare you to write MG?
Sheila had suggested some early chapter books for me to look at. I looked at the Mercy Watson series by Kate DiCamillo as well as others. I saw that the early chapter books were a format that I thought I could do. I also happened to attend a children’s writing conference around the same time I had decided to turn my manuscript into a chapter book.
At the conference, one of the speakers who was a successful author, said she always tries to think in terms of creating a series rather than a stand-alone book. If someone asks her for one idea, she gives them four. I kept that idea in the back of my mind and when I finished the revised story, I realized I could keep going with the Daisy character and the theme of language and a love of words. So I submitted my chapter book back to Kids Can and gave them eight ideas for other books in my proposed series. They gave me a four-book contract!
How is it different from writing PB?
I think the main difference is that along with the overall story arc – which one has in a picture book as well – there also is an arc within each chapter. I tried to make sure each chapter ended in a way that would make the reader want to turn the page to find out what happens next. There also is a lovely feeling as a writer that you don’t have to cram your whole story into as few words as possible. You can give the characters a bit of breathing room. They can go to several different locations, and have many different experiences, all within the same story.
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Thank you, Sandra, for sharing your experience with us. For those who haven't already, please pick up a copy of DAISY'S PERFECT WORD.
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| Published by Kids Can Press, Ltd. March 2012 |
About the book:
DAISY'S PERFECT WORD is the first in a series of four. It is about a young girl, Daisy, who loves words and keeps a journal of her list of words. One day, she learns that her favorite teacher is moving and wants to give her a gift―the perfect gift that only she could possibly find. This is a delightful book that readers will relate to and enjoy. Writers like us will really appreciate this book because there is a little bit of Daisy in all of us.
In Sandra's second book, Daisy’s Defining Day, Daisy discovers alliteration. It will be out in March, 2013.
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Fun Facts about Daisy's Perfect Word:
- The picture book draft went through 8 revisions
- Its midgrade format went through 6 revisions
- It took 5 months from submission to acceptance
- It took 2 years from contract to publication
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For more author interviews:
Laura Murray, author of THE GINGERBREAD MAN LOOSE IN THE SCHOOL
This year I participated in my first 12 x 12 in ’12 challenge, hosted by Julie Hedlund. My task was to write a picture book a month for 12 months. I started strong, belting out 6 stories with ease. So, the party for the halfway mark gave me something to celebrate.
The latter part of the year didn't go as easy. I struggled with my ideas. Those times were spent staring at a blank sheet of paper, staring out the window, or twirling my hair with my fingers. It’s surprising that I made it all the way. I couldn't have completed the challenge without the support and encouragement of the 12x community. Thanks to them, I can happily join them in this end-of-the-year party.
12 x 12 in '12 RECAP
The main characters of my stories consisted of:
A blackbird and a sparrow
A Pumpkin
Two spiders
Chocolate bunnies
A girl named Bella
A dustball
A monster
An osterich
A lion
A dragon
And a chicken
Statistics
- Of the 12 stories that I've written, 7originated from PiBoIdMo with Tara Lazar
- Only 2 out of my 12 stories have promise (In my opinion)
The good news
PiBoIdMo #7, which became story #3 for 12x won me an exclusive invitation to submit to agent, Tricia Lawrence of Erin Murphy Literary Agency! (Still waiting to hear back from her)
So there you have it. Cheers to a great year of writing and friendships.
CONGRATULATIONS TO MY FELLOW 12x CHALLENGERS!
Visit the blog hop and join us in our celebration!
...And COWBOY CHRISTMAS Giveaway Announcement
My husband likes to play the lottery on occasion. He hates it when I shake my head.
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| Lucky lotto? We'll see! |
"You know, the odds of you winning are very slim," I tell him.
"But you're never going to win if you don't play," he says.
According to cnn.com, the odds of winning the recent $550 million Powerball Jackpot is 1 in 175 million. You are more likely to be struck by lightening than winning the lotto.
What's a better odd? Getting a book published. Your odds are 3 out of 10,000 manuscripts or 1 out of 200 at best. (Further discussion on this by Harold Underdown) So I'm taking my chances on my stories than trying to win a lotto. To me, sharing my stories with children throughout the world is more rewarding. But don't get me wrong, if I happen to win a million-plus dollars, that's good too.
To paraphrase my husband's comment: "You never know if you don't try!"
Here are a few of this year's (2012) first-time picture book authors who took their chances and got published traditionally:
Brianna Caplan Sayres- Where do Diggers Sleep at NightTiffany Strelitz Haber- The Monster Who Lost his MeanDonna Earnhardt- Being FrankLaura Murray- The Gingerbread Man Loose in the SchoolSherry Duskey Rinker- Goodnight, Goodnight Construction SiteAmy- Dixon- Marathon MouseRobert Sanders- Cowboy Christmas"Winners are not those who never fail, but those who never quit" ~unknown
These writers all pursued their dreams of becoming an author. The important thing is that they took a chance and submitted their manuscripts. Luck may have played a part in this, but most of their success was based on hard work, persistence, and research. That's how they got to be winners.
And speaking of winners...today is the day I announce the lucky recipient of COWBOY CHRISTMAS by Robert Sanders. I chose Random.org to make the selection. The odds of winning are 1 in 9. Your chances are better winning this picture book than winning the lotto! Anyway, let's get on with the announcement:
And the WINNER is....
Christie Wright Wild!
Christie, please contact me with your address and COWBOY CHRISTMAS will be on its way!
To the rest of you, don't quit trying. There are other giveaways in store for 2013. Or you can pick up your copy of COWBOY CHRISTMAS at your nearest bookstore or online.
I love Christmas! It's a time to remember when Christ was born. It's also a time of love and joy. And it's also a time of sharing and giving!
Today's debut author interview is a special one. I am bringing Christmas to you early. My interview is with Rob Sanders, the author of the new release, COWBOY CHRISTMAS, published by Golden Books/Random House.
Rob Sanders is writing resource teacher at a Title 1 elementary school. He teaches creative writing to children, kindergarten through fifth grade, and mentors and coaches teachers.
I had the pleasure of knowing Rob through our online critique group. That's when I learned of his fantastic blog- Picture This! where you can gain valuable information on the art of picture book writing. If you haven't already go check it out: http://robsanderswrites.blogspot.com/
Rob has lots to share with us in his interview and he will reveal his secret to becoming a better picture book writer. Well, it's not really a secret, but everybody loves a good secret so I'm calling it a secret because it's a really good one.
Oh, and there's more! I did say Christmas is also a time of giving. So I am giving away a signed copy of COWBOY CHRISTMAS! Find out how you can enter to win a copy at the end of this post.
Now let's welcome the wonderful Rob Sanders and learn about his fascinating journey to becoming a picture book author. WELCOME, ROB SANDERS!
When and where do most of your ideas originate?
Golly-gee-whillickers, there’s no way to answer that. Where don’t ideas come from? I get ideas from songs, billboards, street signs, things people say, Youtube videos, kids at school, and so on. Sometimes I force myself to come up with new ideas—a strange character in an unusual situation, a normal picture book character with an abnormal problem, and so on. Sometimes my agent will feed me an idea. Sometimes the comments from an editor will inspire a new project. Ideas truly are everywhere. You have to tap into them and try them out.
How did you come up with your story idea for Cowboy Christmas?
I was driving back from Lisa Wheeler’s boot camp and my mind was wandering. For some reason, I remembered hearing a men’s chorus perform a song called “Hanukkah Hoedown.” Immediately the thought came to me to write a book called HANUKKAH HOEDOWN. Only one problem, I know nothing about Hanukkah. So the idea immediately morphed into COWBOY CHRISTMAS. I had the characters and their problem in mind before I finished my drive home.
Golden Books, a division of Random House does not accept unsolicited manuscripts. How did you get your foot in the door?
I met Diane Muldrow, Golden Book/Random House editor, at my first SCBWI, LA, conference. I had paid for a personal consultation and was assigned to Diane. She liked my story, but wanted revisions. I had a revised copy, which we also went over together. She suggested other changes and said, “Send it to me. No promises.” Two weeks later I mailed off the manuscript. Two months later I had a book deal. Face-to-face contact is the best way to get someone interested in you and your work. The rare writer gets discovered through the slush pile—and that gets rarer every day.
Most picture book writers cannot get an agent until they have a book deal, have an editor interested in their work, or have some success as an author. Most publishing houses don’t accept unsolicited manuscripts. Thus, the face-to-face meeting at a conference is the best bet. (NOTE: I do not mean stalking editors and agents in the restroom or the elevator. LOL! I mean signing up for critiques or consultations, attending sessions and introducing yourself, taking advantage of offers editors often make at conferences for participants to submit manuscripts, and so on.)
You have another picture book coming out- Ruby Rose on her Toes, to be released by Harper Collins. Was the second book easier to sell with a PB under your belt?
Ruby Rose is a two-book deal with HarperCollins. The first book, RUBY ROSE ON HER TOES, comes out in Summer 2014. The second book will come out in 2015. Was it easier? Yes and no. I’m working with an agent now, so he can get my work into more places than I could before. So that’s easier. But I probably had fifteen different manuscripts rejected multiple times by multiple editors before we landed the RUBY ROSE deal. So from that standpoint there was nothing easy about it. But I am nothing if not prolific and persistent!
What 3 books, conferences, or workshops have helped you become a better picture book writer? - Lisa Wheeler’s Picture Book Boot Camp. Visit Lisa’s web site at http://www.lisawheelerbooks.com/LW/home.html. She usually has a list of her boot camps posted there.
- SCBWI, LA. That’s where I got my first picture book deal, and it’s a conference like none other. You’ve got to save your money and go. Once you do, you’ll be hooked. If you have not joined SCBWI yet, you have to do it ASAP!
- Paid critiques. For a couple of years I had three trusted authors I would go to for paid critiques. They helped make my writing better, helped me grow in confidence, and taught me about the business. Find someone you trust, someone who has written books you admire and wish you had written, and ask them if they hire out for critiques. It’s been worth every penny to me.
What do your students think of you now that you are a published author?My students are thrilled that I’m published. But the process takes so long that many of them wondered if the book was ever coming out (and so did I). I have some new writing creds with my students now, but I can also tell them about the struggles of a “real” writer. When I ask them to revise now, they know that editors ask me to revise, too. I was talking to some students today about being logical in their writing, and I was able to tell them that an editor just said about one of my stories, “I like it. But there are a few logic problems.” So writing is more real-life for my students now.
So what is your average day like these days?
Is there such a thing as a normal day? My “real” job is teaching creative writing. I work in a Title 1 elementary school as a writing resource teacher. I mentor and coach teachers and work with and teach children in kindergarten through fifth grade. There are 800+ students at our school, so it keeps me busy. I work on my writing every day. Some days (like today) I revise. Other days I create. Other days I just write and write and write and let ideas flow out as they will.
A good bit of time these days is spent promoting my book, COWBOY CHRISTMAS, working on work-for-hire picture book assignments, working on my new two-book deal with HarperCollins, revising a middle-grade novel, keeping my blog and social media info up-to-date, making school and store visits, and so on. In my spare time I coordinate our Florida SCBWI group in the Tampa Bay area, run two critique groups, and live my “regular” life. Like I said, there’s never a normal day. (And I like it that way!) When do you have the time to write?
I make time to write. I spend at least two hours every day/night writing (and try for more). I usually write in the evenings after work, and I dedicate the weekends to writing, also. Truth is, I can’t not write. Even if I think I’m going to take a day or two off from writing, I’ll find myself scribbling notes on a restaurant napkin (the paper kind, I promise), jotting down words I want to remember, or sitting in my office chair typing away on a new project. The secret to writing I’m coming to believe, is to write. It’s as simple as that. Write. Then write some more.
Thank you so much, Rob, for squeezing me into your day. I wish you the best in your upcoming books!
Here is a video trailer for COWBOY CHRISTMAS: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6F_Jpmr4-6g&feature=youtu.beI told you Rob has lots to share with us. Now for the giving. If you want a chance to win a copy of Rob's new picture book, COWBOY CHRISTMAS, all you have to do is: 1) Follow my blog and 2) comment below. I will choose the winner by Random.org in 2 weeks.
Have a Merry Christmas ya' all!
--------------- Fun Facts About Cowboy Christmas:
- It took 2 days to draft the story
- It went through about 10-15 revisions before it was submission-ready
- It was sold on the first and only submission to Diane Muldrow, Golden Book/Random House editor
- It took 2 months from submission to acceptance
- It took exactly 2 years for it to be published
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For more author interviews:
Laura Murray, author of THE GINGERBREAD MAN LOOSE IN THE SCHOOL
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| The Giants did it again! 2012 |
The San Francisco Giants' 2010 World Series win inspired my son to play baseball for the first time at the age of 9. By today's standards, age 9 is going into the sport late- a sport in which many kids started playing by age 4 or 5.
This fact didn't discourage my son. He was determined to catch up to his peers. He signed up for baseball clinics, watched instructional videos, and practiced batting and throwing everyday with his dad.
In just a year of playing little league, he was invited to play in an all-star team. He has since moved to playing in a travel tournament team. If he had never stepped to the plate to play ball, we would have never known his potential.
I have a few friends who have told me they are interested in writing a book, but I've never seen any one of them follow through in their intent. It's one thing to be interested in writing, it's another to do something about it. You'll never know what you are capable of until you take action.
"In baseball, you only get 3 swings and you're out. In (re)writing, you get as many swings as you want and you know, sooner or later, you'll hit the ball." ~Neil Simon
The San Francisco Giants won 2 World Series in my child's lifetime. Who knows how many more they can accomplish. The Giants' have inspired me to keep writing. For those who have thought about writing, I challenge you to step up to the plate. If you want to make it to the all-star team, you need to attend writer's conferences and read books on writing and publishing to learn something about the industry. Most importantly, keep swinging that bat and write, write, write. I'll be rooting for you to hit a home run!
Here are a few helpful resources for the aspiring writer to get started:
What sets apart a writer and someone who writes?
www.scbwi.org The first step is to sign-up as a SCBWI member. The site includes information on conferences, awards and grants, and helpful resources. Here you get to network with other writers and and receive online support. Read the best in the industry including editors, agents, authors, and illustrators.
www.institutechildrenslit.com The closest you'll get to a formal education on writing for children in an online course, complete with a comprehensive manual and resource books. This will give you the foundation to write a good, compelling story. If you've never taken a course on basic writing, I recommend starting here.www.verlakay.com Verla Kay has a great message board to bounce off questions off other writers regarding writing technique, publishing, submissions, etc.
www.asuen.com A fabulous intensive picture book workshop. It's a 12-lesson e-mail course divided into 2 parts. You'll learn the basic elements of a picture book and put it into practice with weekly assignments.
www.picturebookacademy.com/ A wonderful five-week interactive course by Dr. Mira Rosenberg. Get technical & theoretical information, videos, expert interviews, tips on writing, critiques from your built-in small groups, and a one-on-one critique with Dr. Rosenberg. This is an academy that brings together a community of writers.
www.cbiclubhouse.com Great website for beginning writers. They provide a children’s writing course, a library of instructional articles, videos, podcasts, ebooks & more. For $4.49 a month, you will also receive monthly issues of the famous Children's Book Insider, packed with market news, hot tips and expert advice
~ Happy Writing!
Reaching for Rainbows, the Ebook way
You may want to grab a hot cup of coffee or tea and get comfortable because you are in for a treat! Nessa Morris is here to talk about her experience publishing her eBook, REACHING FOR RAINBOWS, with uTales. She's got some valuable information you don't want to miss.
About Nessa Morris: Nessa is the director of a library that serves people with visual impairments. Before becoming a library director, one of Nessa’s favorite jobs was being a children’s librarian.
Many of you may be familiar with her popular e-newsletter: Opening a Can of Bookworms Daily. If you're not, go check it out for interesting articles focused on the world of picture books.
Welcome, Nessa!
Because you serve people with visual impairment, I understand your need to develop a wonderful concept book that helps toddlers and preschoolers experience colors in a different way. I think it is a fabulous idea. What drove you to self-publish?
I'm new to writing and publishing, and what better way to learn about the whole process than doing it yourself. I've gone into self-publishing with a trial-and-error, learn-as-you-go approach. It tends to be my approach to everything in life, and has worked well so
far.
Why did you choose to publish with the online publisher uTales?
I learned uTales was using a new publishing model where authors and illustrators could team up to create a picture e-book. I've always loved new technology and uTales seemed like a worthwhile project so I wanted to take part in it.
I decided that Reaching for Rainbows, which was originally called Amelia's Rainbow, would be a good story for the uTales, because it's a color concept book with a unique perspective. I couldn't see the story being picked up by a traditional publisher, so this seemed like a good option.
uTales only allows submissions of completed picture books. How did you find your illustrator, Caroline Lee to work with you on this project?
uTales has a collaborators forum on Facebook for authors and illustrators to introduce themselves and pitch projects. I posted a synopsis of my story and Caroline sent me a few illustrations that she created for another uTales book. I then sent her the full manuscript. Everything looked good, so we decided to work
together.
What kind of arrangements did you make with your illustrator regarding pay?
uTales is set up so that the profits are equally divided between collaborators. The uTales technology makes that easy.
Did you provide illustration notes or did you give free reign to your illustrator to interpret your book?
Because Reaching for Rainbows is a color concept book, many pages have only one word. I did research to find flowers, foods, and items for specific colors, and made these suggestions on the manuscript. Caroline had free reign to interpret how to use them, and I love how she turned rainbows into tangible objects. As the project progressed,
we gave each other feedback, and made changes as necessary.
What was the publishing process like with uTales?
Caroline and I emailed each other about the project, and she shared a DropBox folder with me so I could see the work as it progressed. I offered her feedback and tweaked the manuscript to better fit the illustrations. Once the book was finished, each page was uploaded individually. After the files are uploaded, it's just a matter of clicking the submit button. If there are no major problems with the book and it meets the uTales guidelines for subject matter, the book will be approved.
Your eBook, Reaching for Rainbows, is now published in book format . How is that compared to publishing it as an ebook?
In uTales, each page needs to be uploaded individually, but in CreateSpace only two files are uploaded: cover and pages. Caroline had to alter the files to fit the CreateSpace template. Other than that, the submission process is very similar. Once the files were uploaded, we submitted the book. CreateSpace reviews the files to let you know if there are any technical issues. I ordered a proof and reviewed it. Caroline made a few changes based on the proof. Then, we approved the book and it was listed on Amazon.
What advantages did you find with self publishing?
In self-publishing, you have complete artistic freedom and editorial control. The speed of publication is also faster than traditional publishing. I haven't worked with a traditional publisher for a picture book, so I can't really say what other advantages might be.
Any disadvantages?
You are responsible for everything. Unless you pay for professional services, you're pretty much on your own. I'm lucky that I have a great critique group. While there is a wealth of info on self-publishing novels and writing a picture book, there is not a whole lot about self-publishing picture e-books or apps.
Is there anything you'd do differently the next time you self-publish?
I can't really say I'd do anything different because I view the whole project as a learning process. You learn from mistakes. Plus, at this point it's still early enough that I'm not sure what mistakes I've made. Ask me again in ten years, and I'm sure I'll have a different answer.
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Wow! This is great stuff, Nessa. Thanks for taking the time to answer all my questions. I think it's important to let readers know that every eBook publisher handles their submission process differently and not all eBook publishers are self-publishing. So, you must do your research.
With uTales, even if the creative process is left solely to the writers and illustrators, which is classified as self-publishing, their finished product must still get an approval by the editorial panel of uTales. This assures that consumers get quality children's books.
****
Here are some interesting tidbits about Nessa's REACHING FOR RAINBOWS:
- It took 1 week to get the approval from uTales after submitting the completed project
- It took 4 months of writing and revising before it was submission ready
- It took 4 months to develop Reaching for Rainbows into an eBook
- It took about 5 revisions
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For more author interviews:
Laura Murray, author of THE GINGERBREAD MAN LOOSE IN THE SCHOOL
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It's beginning to feel a lot like Christmas! ♪♪♪
Look what I got in the mail from Susanna Hill!
Because of my active participation in her Summer Short and Sweet challenge, I received a handy dandy notebook, a nifty notepad, and a pen. This is the perfect gift for a writer like me!
I love the quotes that are printed on the items. In case you can't see it in the picture, I've listed them below:
"The way to get good ideas is to get lots of ideas and throw the bad ones away." ~Linus Pauling
"My mind contains many good ideas but it's not always easy to squeeze one out." ~Ashleigh Brilliant
"My ideas usually come not at my desk writing but in the midst of living." ~Anais Nin
And there's more! Did you notice the cool cards on the right? They're idea cards or story starters that'll keep my creative juices flowing. Isn't this an amazing gift idea? 
Susanna Hill's Summer Short and Sweet has ended, but you can still take part in what she now calls, Short and Sweet. Every week Susanna gives us a writing activity that'll help keep our writing muse active. It is very manageable. If my ideas run dry, this is where I turn to for inspiration. It's short, it's sweet, it's a rockin' good time!
But wait, there's more! It's time for Tara Lazar's annual PiBoIdMo (Picture Book Idea Month). It's a 30-picture-book-ideas-in-30-days challenge. So head over to Tara Lazar's blog to sign up. I did. That way I will have 30 ideas to work with and flesh out for the year 2013.
If you are having a hard time thinking of ideas, Susanna Hill's Short and Sweet will be the perfect accompaniment to the PiBoIdMo challenge. It's the perfect pair!
Donna Earnhardt is a wife, mother to 3 home-schooled children, and a first-time picture book author of BEING FRANK, by Flashlight Press. In fact, this month marks the release of her new book.
Happy Birthday BEING FRANK!
Well, what better way to celebrate than by reminiscing about her journey to being published as a first-time picture book author! Here, Donna talks about finding time to write, finding a critique group, books she recommends, and querying. Let's all welcome Donna!
As CEO of your household and mother to 3 home-schooled children, when do you find time to write?
This is a big issue at my house. I try to sneak in writing during the nooks and crannies of life. If the kids have a reading block, I am writing. If they are in a gymnastics class, I am jotting down ideas. If they are in bed, I am usually writing until the wee hours of the morning. But…this is in waves. I might have an idea that eats at me all day for a week that I just have to get down on paper. But then – nothing. I am appreciative of those down times because then I can sleep for more than 5 hours a night!
How did you come up with your story idea, BEING FRANK?
In 2009, I decided to participate in NaNoWriMo, but I participated as a rebel. (You’ll have to look that up!) So one morning during NaNoWriMo, I was in the shower praying and thinking. The first line of Being Frank popped into my head. I kept repeating it over and over, made sure all the soap was out of my hair, then hurried out to type it up!
How long did it take you to write your story before you decided it was submission ready?
This is kind of embarrassing. I usually spend weeks (and sometimes months) on picture books before querying or subbing the whole manuscript. But with Being Frank, I wrote it in about a week (revising as I went) then subbed a query to Flashlight Press. FTR: I do NOT recommend this method!
After Shari Greenspan asked for the whole manuscript, I had to pick up my jaw from the floor. Then I asked for an emergency critique from my ShortStuff critique group. They gave me feedback, I revised, then subbed the whole thing.
I had to do a good bit of revisions with Shari. She knew what Frank needed! Shari is a fabulous editor and if you ever have a chance to receive help from her for your manuscript… take it! J
Do you belong to a critique group?
I've been a member of several critique groups over the years, but I didn't have a perfect fit with all of them. They were all good… but I had to find the ones that fit me. After a year or so, I settled with the Mudskippers writing/critique group and the ShortStuff critique group.
In addition to the critique groups, I have writing partners that aren't in my critique groups. And since the Mudskippers are no longer meeting in person, many of us still share manuscripts and critique one another’s work.
How did you find them?
The Mudskippers grew out of a call on our local SCBWI yahoo group for an in-person group. We met together for 4 years. The Shortstuff group came from a call for online critique partners on Verla Kay’s message board for Children and from another critique group I was with at the time.
How did you know they were a good fit for you?
I can’t give a firm answer as to how I knew the Mudskippers and Shortstuff groups were the ones for me. I just know that we gave ourselves time to get to know each other and learn our different writing styles. Sometimes we “get” it, sometimes we don’t. And we have buckets and buckets of grace for each other. We also know to carry a salt shaker with us when we are receiving and giving critiques!
What classes have you taken to help you become a better writer?
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| Recommended resource |
Ooooh… I have attended several SCBWI-Carolinas conferences and Write2Ignite conferences. Before I started attending conferences, I didn't know that picture books should NOT be over 4,000 words. I wish I had known that six months prior to my first conference. A few NY editors wish I had known that, too!
I recommend reading books on writing, too. Here are some I recommend:
Did you have much marketing to do on your own?
I have done a little marketing, but most of it is on Facebook, Twitter, my blog and through gracious writer friends (like you!) who interview me on their blogs. I also set up my book signings. I do let folks know that I am interested in school visits, too.
But Flashlight Press is the driving force behind the big-picture plan in marketing. If you visit my publisher’s website, you will see the wonderful accolades many of their books have received. Flashlight Press is a fabulous company. They support their authors and believe in their books. Their track record is proof!
What's next for you?
I have several completed picture books, a few chapter books and a couple of other projects I’m working on right now. I’m subbing to agents and hope to find one loves me and my work!
Thank you, Donna, for sharing your journey with us. I wish you well with your future works. I look forward to reading more of your books!
For those who haven't already, please pick up your copy of
*****
Some interesting tidbits for aspiring writers about BEING FRANK:
- It sold unagented
- Flashlight Press was the first house that Donna subbed to and got accepted
- It had been revised about an estimated 15 times with editor, Shari Greenspan
- It took 1-2 days for Flashlight Press to respond to her Query and a little longer to respond to her ms
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For more debut author interviews check out:
Laura Murray, author of THE GINGERBREAD MAN LOOSE IN THE SCHOOL
I've been keeping a secret for 9 whole months!
And now the wait is over.
Today, I am proud to announce
the birth of my baby
CASEY!
This is my first eBook (or any book for that matter) titled, Casey Chameleon. Charming and Delightful. These words best describe Casey, the main character. It's easy to read her, because she wears her heart on her sleeve...I mean, skin. Casey can turn all sorts of colors, depending on her emotions.
It's a concept picture book about feelings and color.
Interesting tidbit: The main causes of the skin-color change are the chameleon's emotional state. The surroundings are not a influencing factor.
And in case you're wondering, here are more interesting tidbits on how my ebook came to be:
- December 2011- Informed by Flying Books, Ltd. via Twitter regarding open submissions
- January 2012- Submitted ms to Flying Books
- February 2012- Signed contract
- March 2012- Introduced to my illustrator, Lydia F. Ferron
- October 8, 2012- HAPPY BIRTHDAY, CASEY CHAMELEON!
Of course, traditional publishing does not happen this quickly. The pregnancy on that could take several years. Right now, I'm feeling some stretch marks again and kicking too. Anyone got a pickle? And some peanut butter too?
This month’s debut author is Laura Murray, author of THE GINGERBREAD MAN LOOSE IN THE SCHOOL. Laura may be a first-time author, but there is nothing newbie about her. She is a passionate mother, teacher, and writer who has done her homework. As she puts it, her journey is "part luck, part research, and hard work, with a dose of persistence and patience." Read on to find out Laura’s journey to becoming a published picture book writer.
I know you are a wonderful mother to 3 young children and a teacher. When do you find time to write?
I've taken time off from teaching for now to concentrate on my family and on writing. I tend to work my writing time around our family time, but when it is "writing time," I stick to it. I believe writers have to decide to make time to write. So I try to establish a daily routine when I am working on a story and make my writing time a priority. My brain seems to work best in the morning, when things are quiet. I have also tried to make my writing environment fun and cozy, filled with children's books, writing quotes, pictures, a big window to stare out of and think, a warm cup of coffee, and of course - my friend and occasional enemy - the computer. (Although, plain paper and a pen work just fine as well!) I also try to break writing into bite-sized pieces that are doable in the time I have and not to go back and "fix" my work while I am writing. It is never perfect the first, second, or even third time I write it - I don't expect it to be - I just try to let the ideas and story come out and turn off my inner critic.
What classes, if any, did you take to prepare you to become a children's writer?
I feel like many of the classes that I took to become an educator helped me to understand some of the essentials for children's writing. Classes in early education, child development, child psychology, and children's literature all helped. Reading out loud to my students and to my own children each day, also helped me understand what they liked, what they found funny, what was too long or too wordy, what rhyme and repetition worked best, etc. The many workshops and conferences that I attended through SCBWI, and books on how to write for children were also great resources. I found the Institute of Children's Literature writing course very helpful as well.
What inspired you to write The Ginger Bread Man Loose in the School?
The Gingerbread Man Loose in the School was inspired by two ideas colliding. One was when my 3 year old daughter proudly announced one day that she was “one smart cookie.” Her cute comment reminded me of another “smart cookie” I knew – the freshly baked Gingerbread Man that always managed to escape from my Kindergarten classroom at the end of the first week of school! Every year, the class hung missing posters and searched the halls, discovering crumbs and dropped candies, as we asked school staff where he might be. But he always found his way back to our classroom on his own!
My students absolutely loved this unit and would come back years later asking if the Gingerbread Man had escaped yet. Even though we read many versions of the Gingerbread Man story during the unit, there was not one that mirrored the fun of our school Gingerbread Man chase.
I started wondering what adventures the Gingerbread Man might have had while he was out and about, and then I began to ask what if…? What if the story was set in a school? What if the story was told by the Gingerbread Man himself? What if he was trying to find the class who made him, instead of running away from them? Those "what if" questions helped me imagine a Gingerbread Man adventure that was sprinkled with fresh, funny twists to set it apart from the traditional tale.
You wrote this story in rhyme (such a difficult thing to do, but you did a marvelous job). What steps have you taken to get your meter/rhyme to perfection?
As a teacher and reader, I always loved word play, rhyme, rhythm, and great read-alouds. This story just started coming to me in rhyme - it was like working on a puzzle, and when I managed to revise a stanza enough times to really make it sing, it was such a thrill! But I also had a lot to learn about rhyming, such as stressed and unstressed syllables and words, meter, true rhymes, forced rhyme, etc. I looked up and read as many picture books as I could in rhyme - out loud - so I heard and felt the rhythm. You can immediately tell if a rhyming book flows well or not by reading it out loud. In fact, if you are writing in rhyme, always have several people read your manuscript back to you out loud - you'll hear when the meter isn't working. Books by expert rhymers like Mary Ann Hoberman, Lisa Wheeler, and Hope Vestergaard are wonderful resources. I also had several writers in my critique group that were very good at pinpointing when they tripped over the meter in the stanzas.
Here are two wonderful posts on writing in rhyme:
How did you know this story was THE one?
I wrote several other stories, but this one was the one that made me excited and seemed to have the most possibilities. I turned the story in, time and again, at SCBWI conferences for professional critique, then I would revise. Finally one day, the manuscript was paired with Stephen Mooser (SCBWI president, author, and presenter at the Miami conference,) and he basically confirmed my hope that it was ready to be sent out into the world. This was the only manuscript I submitted at the time. I am now working on a couple of other PB ideas, but the stories are still "under development."
Putnam Juvenile does not accept unsolicited manuscripts. How did you make that contact?
I didn’t have an agent at the time the manuscript was submitted. I submitted it to an editor at Putnam whom I had researched, after I heard at a SCBWI conference that Putnam was looking for picture book manuscripts. I looked up several other publishers in the Children's Writers and Illustrators Market Guide, and made a short list of them to send the story to. This was in 2007, when Putnam was still open to unagented submissions.
Going to SCBWI conferences, both locally and nationally, is a wonderful way to learn the business, meet other writers, and find out what editors and agents who are attending are looking for. Often the editors and agents at these conferences will accept submissions from writers who attended the conference for a certain period of time afterwards. This is a good opportunity to submit to normally closed publishers or agents if your manuscript fits their guidelines and interest.
How many publishing houses did you send your ms to before it got accepted?
I did a lot of research online, through writer's newsletters, and with The Children's Writers and Illustrators Guide, to come up with a group of 7 publishing houses that seemed to be a good fit for my story. I researched their book lists, and researched specific editors before writing a cover letter that was specifically for that publishing house and editor. THE GINGERBREAD MAN…was rejected by 6 houses before GP Putnam's contacted me about the story four months after submission. But everyone's journey is different. My journey was part luck, part research and hard work, with a good dose of persistence and patience. And I know of writers that tried for 10 years before they got an acceptance. My best advice here is don’t give up. Learn as much as you can from other writers, critique groups, and SCBWI to make your writing the best it can be, but your success will come with persistence and patience. I have a quote that hangs over my computer that says: A professional writer is an amateur that didn’t quit. I look up at it often on days when I want to bang my head against the wall, when the words aren't coming easily, or I got another rejection.
What do you think is the most important step you've taken that helped advance your career as a writer?
Joining SCBWI, going to conferences, networking with other writers, listening to the agents and editors, and loving and respecting children and children's literature.
Any new picture books coming out for you?
Yes, THE GINGERBREAD MAN LOOSE ON THE FIRE TRUCK, is due out summer of 2013. It was a load of fun to research and write, and stars the same dapper Gingerbread Man on a field trip with his class to a fire station. And, OH - the adventures that he gets into when he finds himself on the nose of the fire house Dalmatian. I am currently working on other picture books and middle-grade stories as well.
Thank you so much Romelle for hosting me on your fabulous blog! It has been so much fun, and I hope that some part of my writing journey so far, will spark an idea or "take away" that will be helpful to another reader and writer!
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Thank you! It’s been great having you, Laura. My favorite quotes from you is:"Writers have to decide to make time to write"
I guess it's because I am struggling with finding a good chunk of time to write these days. Anyway, I learned so much about the writing process from you. I’m sure your journey will inspire other’s as well. But as you said:"Everyone's journey is different"
THE GINGERBREAD MAN LOOSE IN THE SCHOOL is a fresh take on the traditional Gingerbread Man. Laura managed to create a fabulous story that is full of fun, adventure, mystery, and humor- it has something for everyone.
For those who haven’t yet, please pick up your copy of THE GINGERBREAD MAN LOOSE IN THE SCHOOL today! Please visit her website too. Laura has a wonderful list of book-related ideas and activities that she's created for parents and librarians.
*****Some interesting tidbits for aspiring writers about THE GINGERBREAD MAN LOOSE IN THE SCHOOL:- It took 2 years from draft to submission-ready
- It has been revised about 50 times (some were small edits, some were large plot revisions)
- It sold unagented
- It had been rejected by 6 houses before GP Putnam accepted the ms
- It took 4 months for GP Putnam to respond
*****
For more debut author interviews check out:Sherry Duskey Rinker, author of GOODNIGHT, GOODNIGHT CONSTRUCTION SITEAmy Dixon, author of MARATHON MOUSEKarin LeFranc, author of A QUEST FOR GOOD MANNERS
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| Gelato, anyone? |
Italy is known for its culture, art, and history. Inspiration can be found everywhere you look. It is a perfect place to cultivate your muse and hone your craft. I call this a writer's treat!
My friend, Julie, has organized an amazing retreat for women writers in Florence, Italy. It will take place from April 7-13, 2013. Visit http://julieloves.me/florence to learn about this amazing opportunity. On her website, you will find specific information about the Program, Faculty, Accommodation and Rates. If you do register, please let Julie know I sent you!ll
In addition to the 12x12 in 2012 and the GUTGAA challenge this year, I signed up for Susanna Hill's Summer Short & Sweet Series. To end the summer series in style, Susanna hosted a fabulous summer contest.
CONTEST RULES: The contest is for a children's story of 250 words or less based on the picture and in which somebody somewhere in your story says, in dialogue, "Did/do you see that?" (you may substitute any of the other senses - "Did/do you hear/feel/taste/smell that?") and somebody somewhere in your story says, "Goodbye!" (you are allowed to substitute "Farewell!", "Au revoir!", "Sayonara!", "Ciao!", or "So long!")
I sent in my entry at the last minute. We were supposed to post it to our blog, if we had one. Obviously, I didn't. To tell you the truth, I was a little shy about it (actually, embarrassed). It was difficult to write a story with a beginning, middle, and end in just 250 words. There were so many great talent competing in the contest. But to my surprise, my story- THE DRAGON PRINCE, made it to the top 6!
I guess my story had some merit. So, now I am sharing it, along with the other wonderful finalists. A few of my friends made it to the finals too. Click on the link below and vote for your favorite!
Voting ends on Wednesday, September 12, 2012 at 11:59 PM EDT!
Yesterday, I visited Marcie Colleen’s blog, The Write Routine, and found out she was participating in the GUTGAA blogfest. Curious, I clicked over to Deana Barnhart’s blog to see what it was all about.
GUTGAA, which stands for Gearing Up to Get an Agent, is a month-long challenge of meet and greet activities, polishing pitches, and making connections with other serious writers, in hopes to land an agent.
For today's exercise, I give you a brief bio and answer questions posted by Deanna Barnhart. So to all my fellow GUTGAA challengers and to those who are curious as I was...
WELCOME!
Bio: My name is pronounced, RO-mah-lee. It’s a combination of my parents’ names. Why my name is spelled the way it is, is another story. Anyway, I am a dental hygienist, mother of two young boys, marathoner, triathlete-in-training, student of the Picture Book Academy, and children's writer. My husband tells me I don’t know how to rest. It’s true. Even in my dreams, I am thinking about my next big story.
Where do you write?
I write anywhere and everywhere. Whenever I have the time to write, I write. I have my handy composition book and pen with me at all times. Sometimes I’ll write in my car while waiting for my kids to get out of school or after I've dropped them off. I also write during my lunch break at work, during half-time at my sons’ soccer games, and before bedtime (if I’m not too exhausted). If you want to see my varying work space, visit My Desk.
Quick. Go to your writing space, sit down and look to your left. What is the first thing you see?
My husband is next to me in bed, watching videos of my son’s baseball games on his iPhone while I am working on answering these meet and greet questions. Romantic, isn’t it.
Favorite time to write?
My favorite time to write is in the morning after I’ve dropped the kids off to school. I’d sit in my car in the school’s parking lot and write while waiting for the traffic to die before I head out to work. It’s pretty quiet if I keep my windows closed. The playground in front of me gives me inspiration for my stories.
Drink of choice while writing?
My favorite drink is a nice hot cup of chai tea latte. It warms my soul, soothes my mind, and takes me to my happy place. It helps my writing muse. But the reality is, I drink mostly water.
When writing , do you listen to music or do you need complete silence?
I prefer to write in silence. Music distracts me. I can’t write and dance at the same time.
What was your inspiration for your latest manuscript and where did you find it?
My inspiration for my manuscripts always comes from my two boys. They are fun, active, witty, and silly- perfect qualities for a great picture book.
What's your most valuable writing tip?
Good news! I just won the Spring Lucky Clover Picture Book Contest, hosted by Christie Wright Wild. As a winner, I receive a free detailed critique by Christie.
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| Photo by Romelle Guittap |
I used to be afraid of critiques. I didn’t want to know what others think of me and my work. It took me a while before I got the nerve to join a critique group. Now, I am the first to snatch up an opportunity for a critique. Joining a critique group and sharing my work with fellow writers is one of the most important things I’ve done for my career as a writer. Here’s why:
The Value of Critiques
Constructive feedback- A great critique will provide insights to your story’s sentence structure, characterization, plot development, voice, and many other story elements that may be lacking.
Reaction- You get a feel from your critiquer whether your story is interesting, boring, or mediocre. You'd want to know this so you can work on making your story more exciting and marketable.
Improvement- By learning your stories strengths and weaknesses, it will help you become a better writer.
Teachable Moment- Receiving feedback will help you to be more analytical of your own work.
Information- A critiquer will often share with you resources to help you improve your craft. You’ll be surprised by the wealth of information you’ll gain from a single critique.
Questions- A critique may give you a new perspective to your story with questions that surface. Many times this can help move your story forward or take an alternate turn.
Unique Experience- A critique will bring to the table a different set of experience from the critiquer, offering tips or techniques to improving your work.
Eyes- A second pair of eyes can help you identify mistakes or flaws you may have overlooked.
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Are you ready for a critique? Enter your story for a chance to win
Christie’s Summer Picture Book Contest and you, too, could win a free critique. But hurry. The deadline for the Summer contest is September 30, 2012.
Here is another
contest for a chance to get your manuscript edited by Deborah Halverson at
DearEditor.com This one ends tomorrow, August 28, 2012.
******
Having doubts about joining a critique group?
Read this.
Want to get a professional critique? Here’s a short list of resources:
~Happy Writing!
Yes, you read right. Today's debut author interview is also a bestselling author. To read the words, "Bestselling author" and "first-time author" in the same sentence is remarkable!
Sherri defied all laws of the writing industry. You hear it all the time-
"No bedtime stories," "No rhyming stories," "The picture book market is tough to break," "Your best chance at getting through the slush pile is with an agent."
Yet, Sherri had the audacity to send a rhyming bedtime picture book, un-agented and unsolicited, to a major publishing house, AND make it to the NY Times' bestseller list as a first-time author.
How did she do it? This is quite a story you don't want to miss!
A Cinderella story: From Inspiration to Publication
Sherri, thank you so much for taking the time to share your story with me. I am in awe by your success. What was your reaction when your editor told you the news?
In a word, "awestruck!" The book had only been released for two weeks when I received the call from Chronicle that it had debuted in the #10 spot on the New York Times. I honestly gasped. Then cried. I don't remember what I said, but I vaguely remember blubbering out dozens of thank-you's for the team at Chronicle and telling them how grateful I was for all of the support. It was a really surreal moment. It's been a surreal year!
So let's start from the beginning of your writing career. I know Goodnight, Goodnight Construction Site was inspired by your youngest son's obsession with trucks. What steps have you taken to get your manuscript to publishable form? (What writing classes, conferences, critique groups you joined, if any)
At the risk that this may make me the most irritating author you've ever interviewed: none, nothing, nada.
How long did you work on Goodnight, Goodnight Construction Sitebefore you decided to submit it?
Once the idea hit me, I probably spent about a month --- maybe a little longer --- putting it together. I also designed and included a concept layout (I'm a graphic designer.), which added to the time involved. (By the way, they hated that layout, so, in hindsight, I could have saved myself a good deal of time and effort by skipping that step. But, I often wonder if the concept board helped get the manuscript noticed? I never asked my editor that question, but I've always been curious.)
During the writing process and right after I'd finished the manuscript, I stumbled around a good bit, trying to figure out how (and to whom) to submit it. I finally learned of the SCBWI and that fabulous Publication Guide that is sent to new members upon joining. I did a ton of research with the help of that guide, created a list of publishers who would accept an unsolicited submission, and sent it off to Chronicle.
Did you send your manuscript to other publishers other than Chronicle?
Chronicle was the first AND ONLY publisher who ever saw the manuscript. I chose Chronicle because I love the production values of their work and was inspired by some of their off-beat titles (like The Night I Followed The Dog, which is in my boys' library). I had read somewhere that most publishers prefer to receive an exclusive submission, so my plan was to patiently go down my list and, in order, offer each of the publishers an opportunity to accept it or pass on it exclusively. I truly expected that that process would take YEARS; I had hopes, of course, but no expectations. I realize that I'm extremely fortunate that the manuscript was picked up right away. About three months after I sent Chronicle GGCS, I was offered a contract.
Many editors discourage rhyming stories only because there are so many bad ones being sent to them. They say it must be "perfect." The word perfect intimidates me. But you took the plunge. Did your editor accept your manuscript as is or did you have to make revisions?
I hope you don't mind, but I want to take a step back here. I've read interviews from those editors and agents: "No rhyming stories. No goodnight books." And I can tell you one thing: I thank GOD that I read those articles and blogs AFTER I'd submitted my manuscript and received a contract, or I'd have likely thrown my idea away. My point is this: be true to yourself and your own story. Write from your heart and your passion. Don't try to make your writing fit someone else's agenda. If it feels right, you owe it to yourself and the gift of inspiration you've received to put it out there and let someone feel it out. The worst that can happen is nothing, and that's exactly what will happen if you do nothing... except, in the later scenario, you'll never know for sure what might have been. If you have that fabulous vampire story in your head, but everything you read says "no vampire stories," write it anyway. Maybe your take on it will set you apart.
Now, to back up and answer your question: NO!!! My manuscript wasn't perfect, and it took a ton of gut-wrenching editing and a very lovely, patient editor to help make sure the text flowed well and that the meter hit solidly. There were a number of rookie mistakes in my first draft: I think I rhymed "ground" more than once, and I'm sure I used the word "night" way too much. And, in a couple of places the meter was a little awkward. But it was the idea that they bought. EVERY manuscript needs some (or lots of) editing! I've never heard otherwise.
I think it's a dream to be paired with an illustrator like Tom Lichtenheld, NYT Bestselling illustrator of Shark vs. Train and Duck! Rabbit! How did that happen and what was your reaction?
Thankfully, Tom is a good sport, because he laughs every time he hears this story:
I'd never heard of Tom Lichtenheld until my editor told me that Tom was selected to illustrate the book. The first sample I saw of Tom's work was from his book, with Amy Krouse Rosenthal, titled Duck! Rabbit! The illustration style for that book is SO stark and simplistic — and SO opposite of my initial vision for GGCS — that I was totally freaked out. Terrified! Obviously, though, Tom is extremely talented and adept at a multitude of illustration styles — and he has such amazing vision that it all worked out perfectly. Tom has been a total blessing to me, both professionally and personally. But, it was a rocky, frightening start, at least in my own mind!
What do you think is the most important step you took that led you to your book deal?
Chronicle called with an offer, and I said, "yes!" ;)
Seriously, though, I cannot begin to tell you how many people approach me after my speaking engagements to tell me that they've "always wanted to write a book" and they "have some ideas." My answer is always the same, "Write it. I'm living proof: you never know."
How has your experience as a #1 Bestselling author changed your life?
This is such an enormous question. First, this has given me hope that I might be able to one day quit my day job! (None of my clients will be reading this, right?) I've had a lovely career as a graphic designer: I've met amazing people, learned SO MUCH about people and business, honed my aesthetic, traveled, learned how to present and communicate effectively... but, quite honestly, I've been doing this job for 25 years, and I've felt my passion dwindling for a long time. All of the things that seemed very exciting about design and advertising when I was younger: the fast pace, the high pressure, the late nights —seemed far less attractive to me once I became a mom and my priorities changed so drastically. But, I've always been creative, and I'd been searching for something meaningful. This book, and its great success, has truly been an answer to my prayers and a confirmation of my faith. I almost can't express the enormity of the gift.
On a more practical day-to-day front, I give lectures, visit schools, sign autographs, do interviews and see my name on bestseller lists. That's all pretty amazing. I used the word surreal before, but it's really the perfect summation. But, on another practical front, my clients still want deadlines met, my kids still need lunches packed and help with homework, my house still needs cleaning, the laundry still needs to get done, my husband still needs a partner in keeping our household together — so, for now, it's a huge (but appreciated!) balancing act.
Do you have an agent? If not, do you feel you need one now?
I didn't have an agent for Construction Site, of course. But, yes, absolutely, I do have an agent now. I admittedly thought long and hard about whether I wanted (or needed) an agent, especially because my book had done so well without one.
I was pretty fortunate that I didn't have to go looking for an agent - the right one found me. I now see the huge value in a good writer-agent relationship --- not only in finding a home for manuscripts and negotiating deals, but also in helping to hone concepts and in helping a new author walk through this business with some solid sense of direction. She's really become both a trusted professional adviser and a dear friend, so it's been an ideal fit.
What's next for you? Do you have any upcoming picture books?
I have another book coming out next spring through Chronicle titled Steam Train, Dream Train. Tom Lichtenheld and I worked far more collaboratively on this book, and I'm really excited about it and proud of how it's progressing.
Thank you, Sherri, for taking the time to share your AMAZING journey with me and my blog readers!
RHYME. GRIME. SLIME. WORK TIME.
This is what rhyme is to me. This is my gripe session. So please bear with me. I hope I'm not the only one not getting it.
I’ve been told that editors seldom accept rhyming books unless it is well written. Rhyming picture books must have a story with perfect rhythm and rhyme. I always thought I was pretty good with rhyme, but the edits I get from my critique group tell me otherwise. So, I avoid writing in rhyme because the term "perfect" intimidates me.
I've read a few articles on how to write in rhyme. I also embraced the suggestions I get from my critique group. I even studied numerous rhyming picture books. But after much researching, it still left me dumbfounded.
Here is an example of a verse I read in a picture book. I found quite a few words that were near rhymes, not perfect rhymes:
Baby's got some brand new shoes,
white as light, stripe of blue...
Baby likes to run so fast,
spin in circles on the grass.
After all those jumps and hops...
...sees what has green polka dots.
Shoe and blue rhyme, but not shoes and blue. Fast and grass, hops and dots are not perfect rhymes.
Starting this month, I will be highlighting debut picture book authors in Q & A form. This segment will get into the minds of the authors in hopes to unlock the secrets to their success. There will be a lot of great tips and advice for aspiring picture book authors. I'm sure you will be inspired. So please check back!
This month’s author is Amy Dixon, author of MARATHON MOUSE, which will be released this fall. This interview is packed with valuable tips you don’t want to miss! There is a lot to cover so let’s get started:
When did you decide you wanted to write a picture book?
I really fell in love with picture books while at the library with my kids. They would have to drag me away from the stacks when it was time to go home. They would each choose one or two books to check out, and I would have a pile of twenty. It was really after I had my third child, Gracie, that I decided to try my hand at writing them. Being a stay at home mom of young children meant that I was pretty tied to the house, and most everything revolved around the kids. Writing was something that was MINE, something that I could do after the kids were in bed, something that gave me a connection to the outside world.
How long did you work on Marathon Mouse before you decided to submit it?
54 Comments on Author Interview: Amy Dixon, Author of Marathon Mouse, last added: 7/20/2012
It's summer which means time for some R & R! That stands for reading and 'riting. I have manuscripts to critique, picture books to study, drafts to polish, and more stories to write. If that isn't enough, I joined Susanna Leonard Hill's Summer Short & Sweet.
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| Badge created by Loni Edwards |
Summer is all about fresh squeezed lemon aid, so I thought, why not squeeze in more writing into my busy schedule! After all, Susanna promised it to be short and sweet.
For this challenge, Susanna is giving participants fun exercises every Friday for 8 weeks, which run through August 24. It's a mini exercise that writers can do together and share to keep us writing for the summer. And get this- there will be prizes!
Summer Short & Sweet will be a great way to keep my creative mind fresh. Hopefully, it'll even give me some story ideas for my 12 x 12 in 2012 challenge with Julie Hedlund. So, who else will be joining me in some summer fun? Go ahead and take the plunge!
Here are other challenges I've participated in the past that you may be interested in:Platform ChallengePicture Book MarathonPicture Book Idea Month- PiBoId Mo
5 Comments on Summer is a Time for R & R!, last added: 7/9/2012
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Fascinating topic, Romelle. I always wanted to paint a wall with that blackboard paint and go crazy with chalk.
Very cool! I like how you have colors in your book to teach emotions!
I used to have a lovely burgandy, wine room. Now I live in a very "tan" house. The people, especially the toddler, add the color at the moment.
Amazing post, Romelle! Love your mc...she is precious and kids will definitely relate to her and her search to learn to express and control her emotions. I totally agree that color influences our moods.
My older sister and I shared a room while we were growing up. The day after she got married, I went out and bought paint and painted the walls in MY room YELLOW...to enhance the positivity I embraced.:)
I thought about that too, but then I thought about the dust chalk creates.
Thanks, Erik!
I love that you have toddlers who bring color to your room! I remember when my son was that age and put colors on my wall (with crayons).
Way to declare your room! You have a bright, sunny attitude!
Fun post! I've been thinking of using a soft green in my living room, and this confirms exactly what I've been thinking about the grey-blue it will replace: A less-gloomy, less-stressed me! :)
In my imaginary room, it would be red and yellow, but in real life, I prefer off-white walls with green furniture, staring out into the green of our trees. :} Your book looks adorable!
Sounds lovely, Janet!
It seems that the color green is popular. Sounds like a tranquil room! That would be my ideal room. But your imaginary room sounds like a lot of fun!
Hi Romelle, I just downloaded Casey Chameleon. What an adorable character, and I love how she turns colors with her emotions. Really nice way for young kids to explore their emotions. My imaginary room: a circus feel of orange and fuchsia stripes, with black and white accents. Not very calming. Or sea foam greens and blues...
Thanks so much for your support, Sylvia! It means a lot to me.
I bet you can make any wall look brilliant with you artistic talent! Love your color choices.
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Ooh if I were a chameleon I would definitely turn gray at that gloomy picture. Actually I had a small chameleon growing up who went from bright green to dark green to brown, but its more fun imagining them going purple polka dotted!