Jeannine Norris - Children's Author

Looking for a Picture Book Agent?

2012-02-28T06:02:00.000-08:00

If you are writing picture books, there is a good chance that you are feeling frustrated in today's market. But here is the good news - the picture book market is turning around! Sure, the competition is stiff, but doesn't that make you write a BETTER picture book? We all benefit. With downloadable apps, school visits, and interactive books, the picure book market is developing better opportunities for creativity. And if you want to start with an agent, SCBWI NJ Regional Advisor Kathy Temean has this agent list on her blog that directs you to the folks that are accepting picture book manuscripts. Go for it!

SCBWI Winter Conference - Get In On the Action!

2012-02-12T08:56:00.000-08:00

Miss the annual SCBWI winter conference in NYC this year? Lucky for you, updates on the fabulous editors, agents and authors are available on the SCBWI link. Live bloggers gave us the details, interviews and action happening on stage and behind the scenes. Check out the page for what's happening in the industry. Are you writing what is marketable? What will help YOU get published?

Highlights: Writing for Magazines, Fiction and Non-fiction

2012-02-02T09:23:00.000-08:00

I love writing for Highlights Magazine, and with over 2 million subscribers, who wouldn't want to get their name in print with this well-known magazine? So how do you craft articles that Highlights, National Geographic Kids, BabyBug and Cobblestone will accept? What do they want to see? How about their current needs? Highlights has the answer for you with their March workshop: Writing for Magazines, Fiction and Non-fiction. The all-star cast includes editors from National Geographic Kids, Highlights, and the Cobblestone Publishing Group. Mark your calendars and get ready to submit!

December: A busy month of school visits!

2012-01-03T18:05:00.000-08:00

When you author a Christmas book, you have to expect a crazy month of school visits, Christmas bazaars and book signings, right? December 2011 proved to be just as busy as past years - and that's good news for me! I'm blessed with all the new friends I met through my school visits. The kids asked great questions, I lunched with budding authors, teachers/principals/parents were extraordinarily gracious. Thanks to all who shared their Christmas season with me. You've brought me great joy. Below are two of the school reviews:

St. Catherine of Sienna, Reading, PA - Jeannine told the story in such a beautiful, poetic way....I felt like Mary was talking to me! What a wonderful gift she brought to all of us with her soothing voice, wonderful story and the amazing illustrations. I wish that all children could be as lucky as ours were to "hear" Mary's story!

Our Lady of the Assumption, Strafford, PA -

What a wonderful way to start the holiday season. Mrs. Jeannine Norris came to our school and introduced the children to her beautiful book, Tonight You are My Baby: Mary’s Christmas Gift.

The children were riveted as she read the story and it was projected large than life on the whiteboard. Mrs. Norris kept them engaged in the story all the while sharing her experiences with them.
Many of the teachers commented that Mrs. Norris had such a beautiful “way” with the children, just as she has a beautiful way with words. This book and this author are both truly a gift from God.
Patty Welsh Principal, Our Lady of the Assumption Preschool and Kindergarten”Strafford, PA

Happy Thanksgiving!

2011-11-24T06:07:00.000-08:00

I'm one of those lucky people who have an abundance of blessings. Wonderful family, good friends, laughter and love in my life. But I also count my writing life among my blessings:

* the gift of words

* the schools who have shared their day with me

* the editors who have shaped my writing

* those who have given me opportunities

* the kids who ask questions and tell me I've taught them something

* the gift of sharing the Christmas story

* the schools who have donated to our foundation, At Least Kids

* my critique group who offers support and laughter

* friends who I've met through SCBWI

I am thankful to all of you for sharing my writing life. Happy Thanksgiving!

What's A Writer To Do? Agent Ammi-Joan Paquette Gives Tips on Writing

2011-11-22T06:17:00.000-08:00

So much conflicting advice we picture book writers hear ...

* write quality manuscripts, focus on making one better - Wait! - write many manuscripts and find the gem.
* start with a PB manuscript under 500 words - Wait! - write as much as you want to tell the story, THEN cut words
* you must write an original story - Wait! - it has to have a universal theme

What is a writer to do? Agent Ammi-Joan Paquette, a guest blogger on Tara Lazar's website, gives an excellent overview. Ammi-Joan creates a unique perspective, as she's not only an agent, but a picture book and novel author. Check out Tara's website for the skinny....

Inspiration? It's Everywhere!

2011-11-06T05:21:00.000-08:00

Tara Lazar is hosting the wonderfully creative Picture Book Idea Month (PiBoIdMo). Each day of November means you come up with an idea. But, Tara is not only creative, she is especially generous :). In return, she is giving us a guest blogger. Day 4, and we have author Joan Reidy (Too Pickley, Too Purpley, Too Princessy, and the newest Light Up the Night). Inspiration for ideas really just comes from looking at the world around us. Stay open to possibilities. Joan talks about a few of her favorites: YouTube videos, newspaper articles, illustrator websites and the "rhythm of life sounds". Check out today's post on Tara's website.

PiBoIdMo is ON!!

2011-10-25T07:20:00.000-07:00

Okay my writer friends - Picture Book Idea Month is almost here! The ever-creative Tara Lazar has planned another awesome PiBoIdMo. Her blog is chock-full of interview with agents, editors, prizes, ideas and even critiques! Run, don't walk, to Tara's blog and sign up. One picture book idea, every day, for the month of November. But don't panic - Tara's daily blogs will keep those creative juices flowing. Join me in the fun!

Do You Have Character? Does Your Book?

2011-10-09T05:58:00.000-07:00

So you have the perfect picture book character and can't wait to get started on the manuscript. Or maybe you already started writing. Is your character lovable? Memorable? Does she have flaws that make her relatable to kids? Are we getting an inside peek to who the character really is? And how does this move the story along? Character-driven picture books fly off the shelves (think Fancy Nancy), and yet writing them can be as complex as the characters themselves. Highlights is here to help with a special weekend workshop "It's All About the Character". Join Lindsay Barrett George and Kim Griswell for a fall weekend in the poconos, as you learn the importance of page turns, moving the character forward and catching an editor's eye. Find out how to make the reader love your character as much as you do.

Looking for an agent? What a website will tell you...

2011-09-19T09:11:00.000-07:00

Harold Underdown, editor of the Purple Crayon Website and author of The Complete Idiot's Guide to Publishing Children's Books, understands the dilemma in searching for the right agent. In his blog post, Harold gives a great overview on what to look for when perusing agency websites. Harold narrows it down:

Impressions
Qualifications
Clients
Terms
Conclusions

His case study of Adams Literary Agency, a well-respected children's literary agency, gives the reader insight to carry forward when reviewing other websites.

Hurry, hurry, hurry to a New Jersey SCBWI event!

2011-08-30T06:48:00.000-07:00

Many of my writer friends have been to the NJ SCBWI events. For those of you who are interested, but not quite sure which event is best for you, Kathy Temean gives a wonderful overview. Kathy is the regional advisor for the NJSCBWI chapter. She and Laurie Wallmark work dilligently to provide members with a slew of interesting workshops, first page sessions, intensives and the annual conference. They provide wonderful access to top-notch editors, agents and art directors. You simply can't get this opportunity elsewhere. So, what is best for you? The networking dinners? First page sessions (which led to the publication of my book)? The writer's intensives? Check out Kathy's blog for a description of the events. Just a warning though...it's hard to choose just one!

Would you like to see your picture book in a million Cheerios boxes?

2011-08-09T05:59:00.000-07:00

Did you enter the Cheerios New Author writing contest? 2011 was the fifth year that Cheerios/Simon & Schuster held a writing contest for previously unpublished picture book writers. The winning prize was $5,000 cash and a book published by Simon & Schuster!

My friend, Tara Lazar (The Monstore, Alladin/Simon & Schuster, 2013) interviewed winner Laurie Isop. Laurie won the Cheerios New Author contest in 2009 and her book debuted this July in a million Cheerios boxes. Wow - talk about an introduction!

Laurie explains the process and talks about her idea for How Do You Hug a Porcupine? A great premise, and the idea was born while chatting around the dinner table.

Check out Tara's interview with Laurie and you'll be inspired to enter the next Cheerios New Author contest too! Good luck!

Does Your Book Title Pop?

2011-07-27T08:19:00.000-07:00

If you are like most writers, your head is full of book titles. Titles may seem to be the easy part, and the title is often the impetutus for writing the book. But does your book title stand out? Jan Fields, Institute of Children's Literature, has an interestesting article on the art of book titles. Jan has broken it down into several categories:

* Titles Are Not Labels

* Titles Should Be True-ish

* Titles Need Memorable 'Oomph"

* Bait And Switch With Care

Check out the article in Institute of Children's Literature, and use your title to tempt the buyers.

NJ SCBWI Conference and Industry Report

2011-07-05T09:30:00.000-07:00

As always, the June NJ SCBWI conference was FANTASTIC! Kathy Temean, Laurie Wallmark and the gang do a terrific job. The days are full of interesting workshops, a great line-up of editors/agents, brainstorming, the chance to catch up with old friends, and meet new ones. Each year, David Carumba presents an industry report. This year, Kathy Temean has graciously provided an overview of David's report on her blog.

A quick look at the questions asked of 30 editors and agents:

* what are editors buying?
* the current trend? new trends?
* the impact and crossover appeal of YA?
* how does the bankruptcy of Borders affect the market?

Check out Kathy's blog for the details.

Happy July!

Is Your Picture Book Character Flawed?

2011-06-23T21:02:00.000-07:00

Rob Sanders writes a terrific blog on the art of picture books. In this post, he describes the necessity of a flawed character who makes a reader feel connected. The interview with Tammi Sauer (who has 5 picture books debuting just in 2012!) describes the three characteristics http://robsanderswrites.blogspot.com/ that Tammi thinks are essential to picture book characters: active, relatable and flawed. Check out the post and take the quiz. Have you perfected the imperfect?

Highlights Gallant Kid: June Issue

2011-06-02T07:16:00.000-07:00

I'm happy to announce that my article, Gallant Kid: Katie Stagliano appears in the June issue of Highlights Magazine. Katie is AMAZING! It all started with one seedling. Katie planted the cabbage seed as part of a school program - that one seedling grew into a 40 lb. cabbage! She donated the cabbage to a homeless shelter, and launched her dream of Katie's Krops. Katie now has seven gardens and has donated over 5,000 pounds of vegetables to shelters and soup kitchens. A team of volunteers assists in watering, weeding and finding land for more gardens. Check out her website http://www.katieskrops.com/ for a good dose of inspiration. As Katie said, "We can make a huge difference in the fight against hunger."

Tonight You Are My Baby and Scholastic Books!

2011-05-11T03:30:00.000-07:00

I'm thrilled to announce that Scholastic Books will now offer my book, Tonight You Are My Baby: Mary's Christmas Gift (HarperCollins Publishers) in their catalog and school book fairs. Scholastic provides a wonderful opportunity for kids to have books in their schools, and I'm delighted that Tonight You Are My Baby has been chosen as a holiday offering. Look for the book at a school near you !

What Makes A Successful Picture Book?

2011-04-08T10:13:00.000-07:00

Check out this post on 9 factors that can add dazzle (and sales) to your picture book manuscript.

You may want to hang this next to your favorite writing spot for inspiration!

Highlights Foundation: Writing for Middle-Graders Workshop

2011-03-16T05:34:00.000-07:00

The Highlights Foundation always offers terrific workshops and this is perfect timing. Publishers are looking for middle-grade books. Rich Wallace, author of the popular The Winning Season series, will lead the workshop, and give tips on voice, age-appropriate dialogue and action. I know many writers currently hard at work on their middle-grade novels. Check out the workshop and bring your manuscript!

Agent Offers Critique Every Month

2011-03-04T06:10:00.000-08:00

I'm always intriqued by people who offer their talents to advance a cause near and dear to their hearts. And literary agent Irene Goodman is doing just that. Hats off to Irene. Each month, Irene auctions a critique. Each month! This is a win-win situation as you can receive a critique from a well-known agent and proceeds are donated to Hope For Vision and Foundation Fighting Blindness. This is a unique and clever way to raise money for these important causes. As my family runs a foundation, At Least Kids, to advance research into pediatric brain tumors, I appreciate Irene's fund-raising skills. When I do school visits, I ask each school for a donation to At Least Kids. I also donate part of the proceeds from my book to the foundation. The possibilites are endless with how writers can help others. So if you are looking for a critique from a experienced industry professional. check out Irene's auction page. You may even land an agent while helping a great cause.

20 Tips on Query Letters by Agent Janet Reid

2011-02-23T04:55:00.000-08:00

The Guide to Literary Agents website includes a guest blog by Ricki Shultz. The article focuses on agent Janet Reid and her 20 top tips on query letters. In addition to "Keep it brief" and "remain professional", Janet includes "Surefire Query Killers" and what I think is the best advice of all, "Remember: You can query too soon. You cannot query too late."

Check out the article and make those query letters work for you.

Has Your Picture Book Idea Already Been Published?

2011-02-20T16:42:00.000-08:00

Check out the hilarious flow chart that picture book author Tara Lazar (Monstore, Alladin/Simon & Schuster, Summer 2013) has posted on her blog. The chart leads the aspiring author down the path of "PROCEED WITH CAUTION" or "STOP! THIS IDEA HAS ALREADY BEEN PUBLISHED". Check out Tara's blog and let's just hope you don't land on the "This book has already been written by Denise Richards" square. Good luck!

Sign up for the SCBWI NJ Anuual Conference - Today!

2011-02-13T18:44:00.000-08:00

Wow, wow, wow! Check out the line-up of editors and agents for the annual June conference in Princeton, NJ. About 25 industry professionals will be giving workshops, intensives and critiques to attendees. Interested in submitting to a publisher that is closed to submissions? If you attend the conference, that door is suddenly open. Like to hear how published authors got their break? Register for the workshops teaching you rhyme vs. meter or how to write a good query letter. The possibilities are endless, but catch the early bird pricing today before time runs out!

More Goodies from SCWI Conference

2011-02-02T08:23:00.000-08:00

Alessandra Balzar, co-publisher of the HarperCollins imprint Balzar & Bray, addresses "What Makes Your Work Publishable?" Ms. Balzar tells the crowd the 10 factors she wants before acquiring a project. Lucky SCBWI attendees heard the whole list, but the rest of us who had to miss the conference can at least get five "don't miss" pointers.

!. Voice

2. Groundbreaking concept

3. World-building

4. Read Aloud Quality

5. Heart

Check out the SCBWI blog to read the details of Ms. Bray's talk.

What Happened to Your Book Today?

2011-01-27T16:50:00.000-08:00

Another day of writing? Does it really matter? Is your book making a difference? Author Kate Messner want you to know - it does! Kate is the author of numerous novels and picture books. And she has written a brilliant blog post titled, "What Happened To Your Book Today?". A gentle reminder that somewhere our book is warming the heart of a child, telling a kid they are are not alone, eliciting a giggle, shared by chubby hands and a parent's heart. Your book may not win awards, but it's turned a reluctant reader into a voracious reader or been wrapped in birthday paper and chosen carefully as the perfect gift. Yes, your writing does indeed matter.

NY SCBWI Conference

2011-01-18T09:38:00.000-08:00

Are you going to the annual NY SCBWI conference? It promises to be a fantastic event, filled with agents/editors galore and great writing tips from inspiring authors. Today's SCBWI Team Blog interview: Advice on Critiques from Editors and Agents. Check out the interview so you'll know how to get the most from your valuable critique.

Feelng the Pain of Rejection? Laurie Halse Anderson Understands . ..

2011-01-02T11:54:00.000-08:00

Now I know it's the start of a brand new year, and I probably shouldn't speak of rejection, but Laurie Halse Anderson understands your pain. Laurie is the author of Speak, Fever 1793 and other great novels. This wonderful article speaks to the pain of rejection, but also the inspiration to move past and continue forward. And isn't moving forward what the New Year celebrations are all about? Happy New Year and happy writing!

Hopewell Christian Preschool Visit

2010-12-27T07:34:00.001-08:00

How great my little friends were at Hopewell! They listened so attentively, and asked wonderful questions. We talked about our favorite part of the book, and the illustrations they liked best. The true meaning of Christmas seems to be a year-round feeling at Hopewell. Thanks for a great day!

St. Thomas the Apostle Grade School

2010-12-27T07:05:00.000-08:00

I had a wonderful time with my friends at St. Thomas the Apostle. The kids were excited and the audience even included several newspaper reporters and photographers. I was delighted to be one of the "Real Life Authors" that has visited the school. This article in the Delco Times captures the spirit of the day.

Christmas is in the Air - KidLit Authors Club

2010-12-13T03:49:00.000-08:00

I had the pleasure of signing with a bunch of fantastic writers from the Kidlit Authors Club at Borders in Exton Mall yesterday. Things were busy at the bookstore (always a good sign!) and we were we were busy signing too (another good sign!). This group of PA, NJ and DE authors spans the genres of picture book, middle grade and young adult. If you are a teacher, librarian or bookstore owner check out our KidLit Author Club. We'll coordinate a party at your school or library. Put Kidlit Author Club on your wish list this year. Check out the website at http://www.kidlitauthorsclub.com/

What to Give the Writer on Your List?

2010-12-02T11:50:00.001-08:00

Hmm....what to give that favorite writer for Christmas? Can't wrap a publishing contract, movie deal or face-to-face with that sought-after agent? No need to fret - ideas are plentiful!

* a one-year membership to SCBWI

* a Mentoring Workshop or conference sponsored by SCBWI

* a subscription to Children's Writers newsletter

* paid manuscript critique with an agent/editor at a workshop

* book of stamps for submitting manuscripts by snail mail

* gift card to Staples (in an attempt to keep our writing space clean)

* subscription to Fast Pencil for the novel writers

Most valuable gift: a hug sprinkled with encouraging words, and a dash of faith from those who love us. This will keep us happy all year long.

'Tis the season . . .for School Visits !

2010-11-22T08:56:00.000-08:00

School visits galore! Can't wait for December 1st as I begin the rounds of author visits to preschools and elementary schools. I love the visits - the schools are always gracious and the students ask fantastic questions! If you are on my list of schools this year, see you soon and be sure to check back for photos of our day together!

PiBoIdMo: Are You In On The Fun?

2010-11-02T04:27:00.000-07:00

Today is November 2nd, and if you are a PiBoIdMo participant you should have your second idea penciled in. If you are not a participant, you are saying, "What the heck are you talking about?" PiBoIdMo is a funny name, but loaded with creativity and imagination. Tara Lazar is sponsoring Picture Book Idea Month on her blog.

The goal: each day in November, come up with a new picture book idea.

The details: it can be just the title, a jacket blurb, an outline or an entire first draft!

The reward: winners will submit their top five ideas to agents. The agents listed on Tara's blog will provide feedback on the picture books.

The other reward: you now have a folder of 30 picture books titles!

Jump on over to Tara's blog and sign up as a participant. And for goodness sake, get writing!

Pointers When Pitching Your Manuscript.

2010-10-22T14:08:00.000-07:00

Kathy Temean, Regional Advisor of SCBWI-NJ, has a great post on 11 Questions to Answer While Working On Your Pitch. Kathy makes a great analogy of comparing your pitch to a t.v. commerical. You have the ear of an editor/agent for 30 seconds. Make it work for you! Kathy urges us to be clear on the theme, genre, hook and conflict. Check out Kathy's blog here and find other interesting tidbits too.

The ABC's of Rebus Writing

2010-10-20T05:37:00.000-07:00

My critique group has challenge this month - rebus writing. "How simple" you say? Not so fast!
At 80-125 words, rebus writing has its own set of challenges. I picked up some great tips from an article in Institute of Children's Literature by Marianne Mitchell.

Focus on one small event
The topic must appeal to 2-6 year olds
1-4 characters in the story
At least 8 nouns that can be clearly illustrated
Illustrative possibilities are nouns, colors, numbers
Need a surprise or twist at the end

Check out The Nuts and Bolts of Rebus Writing for other important rebus tools.

Agents Talk Trends in Children's Publishing

2010-10-09T06:40:00.000-07:00

At the NE-SCBWI conference, agents discussed trends in the children's publishing world. What's hot, what's not, the status of picture books and nonfiction. The agent panel consisted of three top agents: Edward Necarsulmer, Ammi-Joan Paquette and Sarah Davies. Find out what writers were asking and how the agents responded. Great information . .

Find the article in The Guide to Literary Agents.

Writing Narrative Non-Fiction? Read On!

2010-10-04T06:52:00.000-07:00

In last week's Guide to Literary Agents, agent Jon Sternfeld gives us the skinny on the essential elements of writing narrative non-fiction. Jon is an agent with the Irene Goodman Literary Agency. He describes the five important points in this type of writing:

1. Arcs

2. Inverse rule for nonfiction

3. Familiar strange, strange familiar

4. Big and small

5. Voice

Read Jon's interview here

SCBWI Fall Philly Fantastic

2010-09-26T05:57:00.000-07:00

If you missed the SCBWI Fall Philly conference this year, be sure to sign up next year. The 2011 event will be a three-day extravaganza combined with Western PA. I was fortunate to be part of yesterday's speakers. My presentation included YA author Jennifer Hubbard and MG author Nan Marino. The Fall Philly theme was Harvest. Jennifer, Nan and I spoke about our journey as a debut author, the Garden Tools for publication, Soil and Nutrients, Weather, and Selling the Crop. Wendy Mass, also a KidLit Author Club member, did a great job on providing inspiration for all. Theu audience loved her, and we were delighted to hear that one of her (11) books, Jeremy Fink and the Meaning of Life, was recently made into a movie. Congrats Wendy! Harold Underdown also spoke of the current state of publishing. He has a huge online presence and it was definitely interesting to hear him speak. Kudos to Fall Philly coordinator Tara Cahill for a wonderful event!

7 Habits of Effective Writing

2010-09-23T05:16:00.000-07:00

Kristi Holl has an excellent article on the 7 Essential Habits of a Working Writer. It's difficult to say which is my favorite, but I do love #6 Finish and Submit. Manuscripts don't sell unless they are sent to publishers, yet many writers are reluctant to let it go. Perhaps it's the fear of rejection or "just one more revision". All manuscripts must go through multiple revisions, but at some point it's time to send your baby out in the world. My gut usually tells me when it's time - call it mother's intuition (?) - but I also rely on my critique group. How about you? Isn't it time?

Get Your Writing Noticed: Enter a Contest!

2010-09-22T09:09:00.000-07:00

This Writer's Digest article lists seven writing contests that are sure to get you noticed - and perhaps a contract too. These contests are all free - what do you have to lose?

What Picture Book Editors Are Really Looking For

2010-09-21T05:24:00.001-07:00

Less words? More illustrative possibilities? A clear market? A special hook? Character development? What exactly do editors want in a picture book? Melanie Hope Greenburg's article Diamond in the Slush: What Picture Book Editors Are Really Looking For has some great nuggets of information from two editors at top publishing houses.

Just a few:

Can you read the story 10 or more times and not tire of it?

Why is your story different?

Can you identify your audience?

Allow white space for the illustrator to create.

Kid appeal but sophisticated enough for adult readers.

Check out the other tips in the article. Thanks to my critique friend Joanne for sending the link my way :)

Announcing Tonight You Are My Baby board book edition!

2010-09-17T14:05:00.001-07:00

The board book edition of Tonight You Are My Baby will be released on September 28th! This is fantastic news for any author. The board book edition will reach the youngest readers - just their size. Looking for the perfect stocking stuffer, new baby gift or Christmas book for the little ones on your list? The board book will be available at Amazon and bookstores everywhere. Share the miracle!

Word Count For Children's Books

2010-09-15T10:50:00.000-07:00

Are you wondering if your 1,000 word picture book is too long? Most likely - yes. Check out this article on word length for all categories of children's books - board books through YA.
How can you ever delete that fantastic scene? Or the character who has so much depth? Well, you might have to do it, if you want to give your manuscript a chance with an editor or agent.
http://caseylmccormick.blogspot.com/2010/09/word-counts-for-children-books.html

Do You Write Non-fiction?

2010-08-30T19:42:00.000-07:00

Highlights Foundation is hosting a cozy, educational workshop for 10 non-fiction writers at their beautiful site in Honesdale, PA. Carolyn Yoder, editor at Caulkins Creek and Highlights Magazine, is leading the workshop. I have attended some of Carolyn's workshops through SCBWI and she is a wealth of information. Non-fiction writing is a great entry for school visits and building publishing credits through magazine articles. Non-fiction can be fun! Check out the details here.

Picture Book or Magazine Article?

2010-08-22T05:45:00.000-07:00

Interesting post from Mary Kole, agent at Andrea Brown Literary Agency. Mary suggests asking yourself the $50,000 question. This is approximately what publishers invest when sending a manuscript to print. In today's tough picture book market, a quiet manuscript with a regional focus, or smaller audience appeal, may not make it to the printing press as a book. However, it may be a terrific piece for a magazine, the author gets paid quickly and the publishing credits add up. Check out Mary Kole's article here.

Are You A Nine to Fiver?

2010-08-14T19:07:00.000-07:00

Returning from vacation and spent time focusing on several projects. Just in time is this post from Kristi Holl on Thinking Like A Nine-to-Fiver.

With the carefree days of summer coming to a close, we'll be falling into schedules and commitments. Kristi's blog should make it easier to fit writing into the day, and all the other parts of life too. How to do it? Check it out here.

Highlights Foundation and Writing Novels for Young Adults

2010-07-20T19:34:00.000-07:00

Crisp autumn days certainly seem like a long time away from these sweltering summer days. But autumn will be here in a blink, and Highlights Foundation offers a fantastic weekend for eight YA writers. Rich Wallace, former Highlights editor and author of numerous YA/MG books, will host a workshop on the beautiful grounds of the Highlights Foundation in the Poconos.
Identify voice, create interesting internal dialogue and find interesting story ideas are among the topics that will be discussed. Interested? Limited to eight participants, so find the details here and act fast.

Vote for Katie!

2010-07-17T05:38:00.000-07:00

Highlights Magazine just acquired my "Gallant Kid" article about Katie Stagliano. Yay! Katie is an incredible kid and she certainly deserves a starring role as a Gallant Kid. As an eleven year old, Katie grew a 40 pound cabbage from the third grade Burpee Seed school program. She donated it to a homeless shelter, and found her calling as a gardener and volunteer. Now you have the chance to vote for Katie. If she wins, Katie can start two more gardens, adding to the seven gardens she currently is tending. More gardens means more vegetables donated to soup kitchens and homeless shelters. Vote today - only four days left!

True or False? Top Ten Publishing Myths

2010-07-08T05:30:00.000-07:00

Former NY editor Erin Brown has a great article on Top Ten Publishing Myths. Terrific information for aspiring authors. We all like to think that publishers will be offering huge advances, our book will hit the NY Times bestseller list, and we need only to clear our calendar before the publisher creates a glitzy publicity tour. Ms. Brown explains why these are all myths, but take hope! Knowledge is power. This information can help you define your book as a success in realistic terms.

Looking To Go Green?

2010-07-02T06:29:00.000-07:00

Going green is the hot topic right now, but this article is about pulling in the green, or at least spending less, while you are busy pursuing your writing dreams. In the Institute of Children's Literature newsletter is "Going Green in the Writing Business" by Sally Phillips. The article lists helpful suggestions such as: Getting magazines from libraries, submitting electronically to publishers, entering writing contests with no fees, free writers newsletters (like Institute of Children's Lit), submitting to smaller magazine publishers, etc.. In today's economy, this is information that we could all use!

Where Are You In Your Writing Career? Freshman or Senior?

2010-06-25T05:27:00.000-07:00

Author and professor Randy Ingermanson poses this question to (unpublished) writers of all genres, "Where are you in your writing career?". Breaking the career into four categories: Freshman, Sophomore, Junior, Senior, Randy explains the nuances of each level of the career path. It's a bit like high school really (and you thought you had left that a long time ago).

Freshman: wandering the halls, looking for guidance, finding their way
Sophomore: a little experience, know how to find the right class (or conference)
Junior: doing some exciting work, not afraid of revising
Senior: have all the tools, shown polished work, ready to graduate

Check out the article and the action plan that will get you ready for graduation (and publication).

High Concept: Publishers Want It, But What Is It?

2010-06-20T11:55:00.000-07:00

Kathy Temean has posted a great article by Steve Kaire on the definition of high concept books. We hear that term bandied about at conferences, but what exactly does it mean? Steve Kaire states that five essential components must exist:

1. The premise must be original
2. The story must have mass audience appeal
3. Your pitch must be story specific
4. The potential is obvious
5. Your pitch should be one to three sentences long

Check out the article - is your manuscript high concept?

Grammar Question? Ask the Grammar Girl

2010-06-14T06:40:00.000-07:00

I rely on my critique group for my punctuation and grammar questions, but this is a terrifc website for many of the grammar questions that pop up for writers. You can submit a question or check the archives. Happy (correct) writing! Grammar Girl

Hats Off to NJ SCBWI!

2010-06-09T09:41:00.000-07:00

Hats off (and a big bow) to Kathy Temean and Laurie Wallmark for coordinating a fantastic conference! Kathy and Laurie are the dynamic duo that managed to have 22 publishing houses/agents represented. These fine agents/editors were available for critiques, networking, workshops and a post-conference dinner. They also generously donated full manuscript critiques for the Silent Auction (proceeds to benefit the scholarship fund). Prizes galore! The raffle had autographed books, gift certificates and book bundles. NJ SCWI presented me with a signed copy of a Richard Peck book and a gift certificate for money off another NJSCWI event -as a token of appreciation for volunteering to facilitate a First Page session. Folks - run, don't walk, to the 2011 June conference! This year about 10 authors/illustrators received contracts through the NJ workshops/conference. The conference attendees left with their heads full of new ideas, inspiration and a big dose of gratitude to Kathy and Laurie. They are tireless volunteers who have done an outstanding job!

YAY! The NJ SCBWI Conference is Here!

2010-06-04T11:44:00.000-07:00

Off to the NJ SCBWI conference and am I excited! Folks, take a look at this fantastic line-up of editors/agents/authors:

Marshall Cavendish

Dial and Dutton

Random House

Egmont USA

Highlights

Sterling Publishers

Philomel

Wendy Lamb Books

Sourcebooks, Jabberwocky

Paulist Press

Little, Brown BFYR

Dial BFYR

Putnam

Knopf

Scott Treimel Literary Agency

Foundry Literary

Adams Literary

Sheldon Fogelman Agency

Herman Agency

Andrea Brown Agency

Fne Print Literary Agency

Viking Books

Henry Holt

Keynote speakers:

David L. Harrison - author of 80 children's books

Catherine Murdock - author of Dairy Queen and other books

Last year I was on the faculty as a member of the "First Book Panel". This year, I'm facilitating a workshop for the "First Page Session". Bring those first pages folks - this is where my manuscript "Tonight You Are My Baby" was discovered.

Hope to see many of you SCBWI friends this weekend!

Feeling Rejected? How About These Famous Authors?

2010-06-01T05:14:00.000-07:00

Join the club! And it's an esteemed group as well - famous authors who have climbed the ladder to success, and accrued a pile of rejection slips as well. We have all heard the story of how our beloved Harry Potter was rejected at least a dozen times before Bloomsbury Publishers picked it up (and we all breathe a collective - whew!). But how about Stephen King or William Faulkner?
And the literary success of Diary of Anne Frank and Animal Farm? Almost didn't happen. Check out this article from the Examiner.com to see the 30 authors/books who rose above rejection, polished their manuscripts, and didn't give up. Each rejection is the chance to make your manuscript better and find the editor who will love your work as much as you do. A little inspiration next time you find a rejection letter in your mailbox . . .

Just the Facts? Or More?

2010-05-29T18:30:00.000-07:00

In the third edition of The Complete Idiot's Guide to Publishing Children's Books, author Harold Underdown gives us the latest in children's non-fiction (now also called informational books).

For example, there are books that present just the facts, biographies, creative non-fiction (books that follow a traditional story arc or facts presented in a fun, unusual format), and how-to books. Check out the sneak peek at this chapter. Sneed Collard, author of numerous non-fiction books, is quoted, "Non-fiction has not even begun to peak as far as creative possibilities." I'd have to agree with Harold and Sneed. In addition, creative non-fiction opens the door to the school market and provides teachers with another avenue of meeting required teaching units. Sounds like school visits are a must!

Agent Pet Peeves

2010-05-18T09:29:00.000-07:00

The Guide to Literary Agents has a terrific post on agent pet peeves. Quoting numerous agents representing various genres, the post lists everything from cliched phrases ("It was a dark and stormy night" - wow, people actually still write that?) to flowery writing that doesn't move the book forward. Also mentioned: waking from a dream in Chapter One, a run-down list of physical attributes, and characters moving around in the scene, but essentially doing nothing.
Before submitting to your dream agent, check out this article.

Why does it take so long to hear about my manuscript?

2010-05-05T10:39:00.000-07:00

If you are a writer, you have surely muttered the question, "Why does a publisher take so long?". This is probably asked after the hundreth day of checking the mailbox. Actually, to hear in 100 days isn't bad :) A publicist from Peachtree Publishers, an independent publisher with a terrific list, gives us a peek into the acquisition process. This may not make the wait any easier, but it gives us more clarity. Thanks to the Peachtree folks for this blog. Check it out here.

Best Agent Blogs

2010-05-01T11:23:00.000-07:00

The website Guide to Literary Agents just posted their top five agents blogs. This is really valuable information folks! Agent blogs are a peek into the publishing market, what agents might be looking for at the particular time, a sense of "is this the agent for me?", books they recently sold, how to write a query letter, etc.. Some agents even sponsor contests that may lead to your manuscript sitting on their desk. The Guide to Literary Agents notes these five blogs (in alphabetical order): Chip MacGregor, Dystel & Goderich Literary Management, KidLit, Nathan Bransford, and Rachelle Gardner. Check out the website for the links to the agents.

Wish You Could Attend a SCBWI conference? Read About It Here

2010-04-12T06:21:00.000-07:00

Two regional SCBWI conferences took place this weekend. The bad news: you couldn't attend. The good news: you can get the insider tips anyway!

Western Washington State live-blogged the conference here and Western PA's conference was blogged here.

Check it out for great information on keynote speakers, editors and agents. A real dose of inspiration.

Dear Editor - I Have A Question

2010-04-06T05:51:00.000-07:00

I thought this was an interesting tip for our writers. Deborah Halverson, author of two award-winning novels and a Harcourt Children's Books editor for ten years, has recently launched Dear-Editor.com. This website is designed to answer questions about the craft of writing and the publishing industry. Deborah now works as a writing instructor and author. You can't beat the price - it's free!

Get The Party Started!

2010-03-29T05:33:00.000-07:00

Wow! The KidLit Authors Club has a party just waiting for you! This newly formed group of 13 PA, NJ, De authors will bring experience, writing tips, prize bags and fun to your next event. The mix includes picture books, middle grade and YA novelists. The spring schedule is hopping and events are already booked into Fall 2010. Check out our website at KidLitAuthorsClub and get the party started!

Does a Capybara make a nest? Ask an expert!

2010-03-23T15:33:00.000-07:00

So you're writing a non-fiction piece? Perhaps an interesting article or you have a fabulous book idea? That's great! The beauty of writing in today's world is the ease of checking facts. Say you're writing a book about the rainforest (okay, I'm writing a book about the animals of the rainforest). With a click of your mouse, you can enter the rainforest and discover that a large pig-like rodent with webbed feet (called a Capybara) also dwells there. Great internet sources tell us that the Capybara stays near the water, but you can't seem to find out how it makes a nest. Does it tunnel in the mud? Does it make a nest of grass and twigs? Who on earth will know these offbeat facts? You need a Capybara expert! In the March/April SCBWI bulletin, author Jane Mcbride Choate shares a fabulous list of experts just waiting to help!

Experts.com

intota.com

JustAnswer.com

OnlinePublicRecordsSearch.com

LivePerson.com

expertfinding.net

And if any of you are Capybara experts, please let me know. No pressure though, I can always ask the other experts!

Board Book Edition Coming Fall 2010!

2010-03-02T08:00:00.000-08:00

Great news! Tonight You Are My Baby will also be printed Fall 2010 as a board book edition! This edition will be for the littlest readers, who can hold the sturdy book in their hands and share the story of Mary's love for her baby. This is the perfect stocking stuffer, baby shower gift, or new baby present. Look for it in your local bookstore in September.

Announcing KidLit Authors Club!

2010-02-22T09:40:00.001-08:00

I'm breaking my own challenge (inspired by Laurie Halse Anderson of abstaining from blogs, Facebook, Twitter for one month) for this important announcement. The KidsLit Authors Club has arrived!

Are you a teacher or librarian in the PA, NJ, DE area who would love to have one-stop shopping available for author visits? How about a whole group of young adult, middle grade and picture book authors arriving at your doorstep in one day? If you think this is a fabulous idea - look no further.

The KidLit Authors Club (KAC) is a group of of authors and illustrators from PA, NJ and DE who will bring the party to you! The KAC is new, but gosh, are we busy already! Check out the website for a list of where we will be visiting: bookstores, schools, libraries and writing conferences. This terrific mix of debut and multi-book authors combines fun with valuable writing tips. You make the contact, we'll take it from there - talk about a party planner!

Check out our blog at KidLit Authors Club and be inspired!

No Time To Write? Stop Blogging!

2010-02-05T06:20:00.000-08:00

Another gem from Laurie Halse Anderson, and she makes a very good point. She dares us to stop blogging, Facebook, etc. for the month of February. I would have to agree that we will find ourselves with much more time to write. The newsletter from the Institute of Children's Literature relays a quote from Laurie that I think is fabulous. "Reading blogs will not turn you into a published author. Writing blogs won't either. Writing books will. You have precious little time after your other responsibilities and if the goal is to write a book, well, then . . . write it." That's it, folks - I'm signing off. Not sure I can do the month of February, but the longer I write this note, the less time I'm writing my book!

Top 10 Influential YA Authors

2010-02-04T05:35:00.000-08:00

Amazon recently announced who they consider to be the Top 8 Influential YA Authors of the decade. I picked up this link from the blog of Laurie Halse Anderson, who I think is a terrific author, and is included in the list. Other noteworthy authors are Meg Cabot (Princess Diaries), Stephenie Meyers (Twilight) and Christopher Paolini (Eragon). Check it out.

Book Proposals

2010-01-25T10:32:00.000-08:00

Literary agent, Rachelle Gardner, has a terrific blog post on how to write a non-fiction book proposal. She also lists several books that will help you in this endeavor. This is really valuable information folks. "What's the big deal?" you say. "I just write a few sentences about my book and how it will be a hit on Oprah." Actually, a book proposal is a big deal. Details include: who is your audience? What books are similar? How is your book different? What is your platform? Why are you qualified to write the book? Include Table of Contents and several chapters. When will the book be completed? What is your publishing history? This comes at a good time for me, as I embark on a proposal. Hope you all find it helpful too. Thanks to Rachelle Gardner. . .

List of Editors - What Do They Want?

2010-01-21T13:59:00.000-08:00

Author Ellen Jackson has written a terrific list of editors and what they are interested in publishing. She cautions to read the list carefully, and also check the publisher's websites. Not all houses are open to submissions. This list is a great tool for writers. Check back to Ellen's website for updates.

Highlights Workshop Scholarships

2010-01-19T09:28:00.000-08:00

Did you know that Highlights Foundation offers scholarships for their writer's workshops? In these tough economic times, many of us could use financial help in perfecting our craft. Highlights offers fabulous worshops, with a varying focus, and some of the top names in the writing field. Check out this link to learn what opportunities may await you in 2010!

Thanks to the Schools!

2010-01-09T13:09:00.000-08:00

In this wonderful new year, I'd like to thank the schools for hosting my author visits. It was a busy December, as every day was booked. Without exception, each school was gracious, organized and informed. The kids had fantastic questions and I certainly noticed some budding authors. I am particularly thankful for the generous donations that each school gave to our foundation, At Least Kids, to support pediatric brain tumor research. Truly, these are kids helping kids. The school donations totaled approximately $1,500. May you all be blessed with peace, joy and health in the new year.

St. Anastasia School

St. Patrick School

Mother of Divine Providence

St. Joseph's School

St. John the Baptist

Ursuline Academy

Pope John Paul Elementary

St. Edmond's School

St. Maximillian Kolbe School

St. Elizabeth School

Blessed Teresa of Calcutta

Highlights 2010 Fiction Contest

2009-12-31T06:41:00.000-08:00

Do you have a terrific story from your childhood lurking in your head? Well, this is your chance to be published in Highlights Magazine and win $1,000! Highlights is offering three $1,000 prizes (or a scholarship to their fabulous workshops) to the top winners in this contest. Submissions must be true stories from your family, maximum 750 words and postmarked between Jan.1-Jan.31, 2010. Need a writing resolution for 2010? Here it is! Check out details on the Highlights web page. Good luck to all!

SCBWI NY CONFERENCE

2009-12-27T06:41:00.000-08:00

The annual Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators conference in NYC will take place at the end of January. Only two more weeks for early registration. This meeting is chock-full of editors, agents and established children's authors. This is your chance to have your manuscript critiqued, rub elbows with the "go to" folks in the industry and get inspired! Check out the SCBWI website for registration information and the terrific faculty.

Everybody is a winner!

2009-12-26T11:56:00.000-08:00

Lots of excitement in the schools, with the raffle for a gift certificate to Trappe Book Center. Eligible students must visit my website and complete a Q & A. On the day of the author visit, the fun begins! Students already know a lot about my writing and hands are in the air, eager to answer questions. School visits are a blast!

A Mamistad Winner!

2009-12-16T13:57:00.000-08:00

Mamistad moms Priscilla and Tricia are the winners of the Tonight You Are My Baby: Mary's Christmas Gift contest! Thanks to all the mamis who entered the contest and joined in with lovely comments. Special thanks to Cynthia for coordinating the grand event! If you are interested in buying a book, it's available at http://www.amazon.com/, http://www.barnesandnoble.com/ and many independent book stores. May you all have a wonderful Christmas with your little ones, and may 2010 be filled with blessings for all!

Hear Ye, Hear Ye, MAMISTAD!

2009-12-12T07:58:00.001-08:00

Such fun! The replies from the Mamis are flying in and everyone is trying to guess the magic number to win a signed copy of Tonight You Are My Baby. Will you be the lucky one? Scroll below this post and click "comments". Leave a note and your guess. Tonight You Are My Baby: Mary's Christmas Gift is the perfect gift to give yourself. Snuggle with your little one and read of the oldest love story - a mother and her baby.

School Visits Galore!

2009-12-11T20:07:00.000-08:00

Wow! This has been a month of fun school visits. I'm meeting new friends at schools every day until December 22nd. Each school has been organized, welcoming and gracious. The kids are full of fantastic questions. Talk about high-tech and well-read! The fun doesn't end there - each school has generously presented me with a donation to our foundation, At Least Kids. This is a shining example of kids helping kids - in the spirit of the season. Fantastic!

Mamistad "Mother and Friend"

2009-12-11T19:32:00.001-08:00

Another great giveaway! MAMISTAD is a fantastic group designed to bring first-time pregnant women together to share the struggles, joys and beauty of motherhood. In Spanish, Mami means "mommy" and Amistand means "friendship". This support network places moms together in a circle of friends to share their journey of motherhood together. MAMISTAD is offering a chance to win a signed copy of Tonight You Are My Baby. The perfect book for this wonderful group of women! You must be a member of MAMISTAD, leave a comment on my blog, and guess the secret number. The two closest guesses will win. One will be a signed copy of the book. Good luck to all!

Interview and Book Give Away

2009-12-01T19:11:00.000-08:00

Check out Clara Gillow Clark's fantastic blog - and it's not just fantastic because she interviewed me for the December 1st entry. Clara has great guests and terrific information. She writes historical fiction for kids ages 10 and up. I'm in awe of anyone who can write historical fiction. I think it's fascinating, but the research alone is monumental. Clara and I became friendly through Twitter. Just goes to show that social networking can certainly be valuable, and also introduce you to new friends. If you leave a comment on the blog, you are eligible in a raffle for a signed copy of Tonight You Are My Baby: Mary's Christmas Gift.

Perfect Holiday Gift For Writers!

2009-11-24T05:58:00.000-08:00

If you are an aspiring author or already a published author, add this fabulous item to your wish list. Bill Quain, Ph.D, is the author of 17 books. He has sold 2.3 million copies in 20 languages - now, that's success! In addition to being a best-selling author, Dr. Quain is obviously a terrific marketer. He is also in the business of creating marketing programs for authors who want to sell more books. And he can help those that would like to publish a book. We all know in today's world, successful authors must be successful marketers. Gone are the days writers could hide in the attic, alone with their thoughts. Just reading this blog, demonstrates the importance of marketing, web presence and name recognition. Check out the creative packages that Dr. Quain is offering for the holidays. Print and leave the list where your secret Santa will find it! Or treat yourself ! With all the books Dr. Quain will help you sell, you can treat your loved ones to something special too!

What Is Your Voice?

2009-11-20T05:40:00.000-08:00

The awesome Tara Lazar continues to inspire us with her blog, Writing For Children While Raising Them. As this is National Picture Book Idea Month (affectionately called NaPiBoIdMo), Tara's blog is chock-full of great information from guest bloggers. (see below). Recent posts include inspiration through volunteer work, whistle while you write and the idea catcher. To up the ante, Tara has also arranged for three agents to critique the winners in the grand prize raffle. Wow! Check out the fantastic agents on her blog. And while you are there, check out my stint as guest blogger with my title, "Do You Hear Voices?". Happy writing!

PiBoIdMo

2009-11-09T07:41:00.000-08:00

Hear ye! Hear ye! Picture book writers! November is Picture Book Idea Month on Tara Lazar's blog, and she has a fantastic line-up of picture book authors who are sharing their secrets. Guest bloggers include Karma Wilson (Bear Snores On), Tammy Sauer (Cowboy Camp, Chicken Dance), and a host of others. Tips include: how to find ideas, where is the voice, and other tasty tidbits that will keep you inspired. I'm guest blogging on November 19th, so be sure to tune in. Happy writing to all!

Katharine Paterson, Author

2009-11-05T11:58:00.000-08:00

"I like to write about people whom the world neglects or forgets. I've known so many brave people that most of the world would count as nothing. I love to give them their due." - Katherine Paterson, author

Wow! Talk about inspiration! From The Institute of Children's Literature, a fantastic interview with Katharine Paterson. Katherine won the Newbery Medal for two of her books: Bridge to Terabithia and Jacob Have I Loved. She also won an Honor Book Newbery Medal for The Great Gilly Hopkins.

The entire interview is delightful, as it seems Ms. Paterson is herself. But to have the noble goal of writing about people that would otherwise be forgotten, is outstanding. Ms. Paterson draws upon her experience of her son's childhood friend in Bridge to Terabithia, and her time as a foster parent in The Great Gilly Hopkins. She gives hope to the struggling writer, as she wrote while she was raising four children under the age of five!

As with many writers, her children gave her the inspiration to write. Asked about her busy years as a young mother struggling to find free time she notes, "But I've always maintained that the people who took away my time were the same ones who gave me something to say. If I had to chose between those four and my books. There would be no contest. The children would win hands down."

Bravo to Katharine Paterson. Check out the interview - it will make your day!

Care to Query?

2009-10-27T08:03:00.000-07:00

Mary Kole, Associate Editor at Andrea Brown Literary Agency, has a fantastic post on Overthinking the Query. Mary explains that the query is to tell her about your idea and make her care. This isn't the time for fancy marketing or gimmicks. In another post, she outlines the bare bones of the query. If the query seems too complicated - it is. Check out Mary's blog for her query contest. She'll post the best query and what makes it work. Deadline is October 31st. Care to query?

Wrtie a Novel in a Month?

2009-10-22T05:38:00.000-07:00

This November is the tenth anniversary of National Novel Writing Month. Affectionately called "NaNoWriMo", writers in every genre hope to write 50,000 words in 30 days. Have a great idea, but can't seem to find the time? A few scribbled notes stuck in your desk drawer? This is your inspiration!

"Thirty days and nights of literary abandon " is the quote on the official NaNoWriMo website. Join your peers as you write furiously into the night. Need just a tad more inspiration? Ann Gonzalez wrote her debut novel, Running for My Life, during Nanowrimo 2007.

Ready, set, go!

Highlights Magazine - Current Needs

2009-10-16T05:56:00.000-07:00

Highlights Magazine for Children just released its list of current needs. This magazine is a great publishing credit for writers. Highlights has a current circulation of over 2 million , which places it as the largest paid subcription, general interest magazine for children. That means a lot of folks will read your article! Interested in writing a non-fiction piece for Highlights? Be prepared for lots of homework. The editors demand high-quality pieces, and this requires expert reviews of your article, quotes, a thorough bibliography (not internet sources). And you may likely be asked for revisions. I had one article acquired by Highlights, and another currently under revision. It's not an easy process, but the result? A better article with a tight focus and an interesting twist for kids. Highlights pays well, upon acquistion of the manuscript. A bonus -other publications may have permission from Highlights to use the article, and the author receives additional royalties. Check out the Highlights list of current needs and good luck!

Query Letters - are you telling too much?

2009-10-07T05:27:00.000-07:00

Ah, the query letter. How tempted we are to jam the entire book into a query letter. How can we possibly resist? YOU MUST RESIST! The query letter is meant to give the editor/agent a brief overview of your book and what makes it different than the hundreds of others they have seen with the same plot. Consider it your one-minute elevator pitch. If you are telling too much in the query, you have not practiced your pitch. Impress the editor/agent with your brevity and ability to write succinctly. If you query letter just won't stop telling, they will assume that your manuscript just won't stop telling either. Check out this article from Query Shark for a great example.

Authorless Book Tours?

2009-09-30T14:49:00.000-07:00

An interesting article recently appeared in Business Week titled, Kid-Friendly Book Tours (Author Not Included). The article cites that some publishers are still doing the tours, promoting the books, but leaving the authors at home. The tours focus on the characters in the book, with the thought that they attract children more than the author. Random House launched the authorless tour six years ago. Barbara Park's wildly successful Junie B. Jones series was promoted in the Stupid Smelly Bus Tour.(an actress posing as Junie B.) This summer, Amulet Books took an ice cream truck to 31 city libraries. The publicity was for Jeff Kinney's latest book in the Diary of a Wimpy Kid series. Publishers note that the bus tours cost more than author readings, but sales are better. Increased book sales + more time to stay home and write? Sounds like an interesting proposition.....

Where do all the used books go?

2009-09-21T06:16:00.000-07:00

If you are reading an author's blog, chances are you are a bibliophile. You buy books, lots of them, and collect them. Many of us have jammed bookshelves that can't possibly fit one more book. Some books are like old friends, you simply can't bear to part with them. But with other books, you might be willing to help find a good home. Where to donate? Well, your local library may be happy to accept, and sell the books for a few dollars. Definitely a bargain for the next reader - particularly if it's a hardback, and you are supporting a local resource. If the library doesn't accept donations, not to fret, there are plenty of other opportunities for books in good condition:

http://www.readertoreader.org/ brings books to needy schools and libraries across the US

http://www.booksbeyondborders.com/ pays shipping costs to developing countries

http://www.operationpaperback.org/ send books to American troops overseas

So, feel free to read on, my friends. Just remember to pass along!

Who Needs a Running Buddy? You Do!

2009-09-15T09:05:00.000-07:00

Need to clear your head after a long day of writing? The Rx for me is often a long run. The fresh air, exercise and change of scenery often inspire me and get the creative juices flowing. Most of my writer/runner friends are nervous about hitting the trails without a partner. For many, the buddy system makes us accountable and feels safer. If you have a big dog like mine (a former pound hound), a running buddy is ready to go at a moment's notice. But for those runners who long for a furry bodyguard, the answer is as close as your local animal shelter.

In the October issue of Runner's World magazine, a terrific piece titled "Pace A Pooch" highlights SPCA and human societies with running programs. Runners have a buddy, and the workouts help the dogs find a new home. Overweight dogs lose lbs. and increased exercise often means less behavioral problems. Runners can pick up a dog for each mile, or train one friend to go the distance. Sounds like a win-win to me!

Programs currently exist in Seattle http://www.getfitwithfido.org/, Washington D.C. http://www.washhumane.org/ and Tulsa http://www.tulsaspca.org/ or contact your local animal shelter (enter zip code at http://www.pets911.com/.

Not in love anymore?

2009-09-12T06:49:00.000-07:00

Via Twitter, I recently came across a very funny article titled, "You Aren't The Book I Married Anymore" by Courtney Summers. The article makes the analogy that the relationship with your manuscript is like a marriage.

Oh, those glorious first weeks/months. The giddiness of new ideas, fresh pages, the "I can't get you out of my mind" feeling. The endless possibilities. Aren't we all thrilled with our new manuscripts? You can't wait to make the introductions. Everybody will love him...I mean "it", the book. You want to spend all your time together.

But, alas, like all relationships this one needs work to remain healthy. Very slowly, you begin to notice flaws. Things with the manuscript all not all good. Sure, you can deny it for a while, but what about those characters that need more development? The dialogue is not quite its best. Really, what makes this book different from the others? You beg the manuscript to cooperate. Change for the sake of your relationship. The honeymoon is over. This relationship needs work.

Now comes the hard part. Revising, commitment, editing. The willingness to admit that some parts aren't working, but you are open to change. For the sake of the relationship. You two can get through this together - and walk the I am published bookstore aisles in wedded bliss.

Back to School? Good idea(s) !

2009-09-10T11:32:00.000-07:00

For many of us, "back to school" means more writing time. Summer nourishes our soul, and allows a break from demanding schedules. Everything is more relaxed - and our writing often languishes also. But back to school means fresh notebooks, sharpened pencils and new ideas. This time of year is full of ideas for a manuscript. Publishers are always on the lookout for new back- to -school books. Observe your kids, listen to their conversations. What concerns/fears/excitement can you hear? Chances are, your kids are not the only ones talking about these issues. New kid in the school? Scary teacher? Lunchroom food fight? Someone change over the summer? Funny bus driver? New principal? Electing class president? Don't have school age children yourself? Remember how you felt as a child. The butterflies in the stomach and the anticipation. If you need more ideas, borrow a friend who has young children. Treat her to a cup of coffee at the local coffeehouse. Now she has more time too!

If your critique group always tells you the manuscript is perfect - RUN!

2009-08-30T05:25:00.000-07:00

I often write about the importance of critique groups, and the valuable effect on one's writing. A SCBWI New Jersey group put their writerly heads together and blogged their Top 10 Tips For A Great Critique Group. The list included tips such as

Go positive before going negative - choose several good aspects of the manuscripts before showcasing the negatives. For example, great concept, distinct voice, puts the reader in the scene. No one likes to first hear a laundry list of what is wrong with the manuscript.

Show respect for other's work - realize that the heart/soul of a writer goes into their manuscript. It can be intimidating to release one's work into the hands of others. As we are all writers in a crit group, each person can empathize.

If your crit group is always telling you the manuscript is perfect - RUN! - This is my favorite tip. Even if you are J.K. Rowlings, there is always room for improvement in a first draft. As the writer, we become so wrapped in our own work that we often fail to see the big picture. This is especially true for rhyming picture books. We make the meter work for us. It's only when we give it to others that we see it in a new light. Realize that this is your first draft and when you develop a thick skin, you will thank your group. As I always tell my group, "I would much rather hear it from you than an editor."

To the Top Ten List, I would like to add A Sense of Humor. We have a lot of laughs in our group, and it makes us all look forward to meeting. Writing is a solitary pursuit, and full of rejection, but that doesn't mean we have to lose our humor. Our group laughs about our first drafts, making meter rhyme and the absurdity of picture books. We laugh at our ourselves, and the difficult pursuit we have chosen. A good laugh cements the bond between you all and eases the sting of how much work lies ahead.

I'm frequently asked how one writes a publishable picture book. My answer, always, is join a critique group. If you belong already, hooray! Take the top 10 list to your next meeting. If you don't belong, join or start a group. And make this Top Ten List - first on your list.

Tonight You Are My Baby: Mary's Christmas Gift

2009-08-16T20:42:00.001-07:00

SCBWI LA Conference: Yes, You Can Attend!

2009-08-11T06:01:00.001-07:00

The Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators has two fabulous conferences each year. Winter finds SCBWI in NYC and summer finds SCBWI in LA. The meetings are chock-full of agents/editors/authors and INSPIRATION! Wish you were there? Well, so do I, but we can feel the excitement and gather valuable information through the SCBWI Team Blog. Don't miss the chance to visit the blog and the fantastic team that attended various sessions. You'll feel as if you are sitting right in the front row. Thanks to all!

Back from Vacation

2009-08-11T05:56:00.000-07:00

Returning to blogging after two weeks of R & R, but mostly fun times with family. Stay tuned for a post about the SCBWI LA conference, with lots of valuable info.

Bedtime, Kittens and Grandparents - Oh My! Picture Book Topics to Avoid.

2009-07-24T07:41:00.000-07:00

Author Darcy Pattison has a great article on "Picture Book Topics to Avoid". Dial editor, Liz Waniewski spoke on this topic at an SCBWI Arkansas conference in 2007. Darcy asked Liz to update the list for 2009. Lucky for all of us - she did. Liz W. states that these topics aren't necessarily bad topics. It's simply that your writing must rise above the competition to be noticed - and ultimately acquired. Be aware that other children's book editors are probably seeing the same topics in their slush pile. Hoping to get noticed? Avoid these topics and write about something unusual. On a personal note, I'm delighted to see that Christmas stories and barnyard tales have dropped from the list. Good news for me, as Tonight You Are My Baby is a Christmas book and currently under editorial consideration is a barnyard tale! What to do if, like me, your topic is also on the popular topics list? Give it a twist, end with the unexpected, surprise the reader, give it a new voice. Put your creative hat on!

If the shoe fits....finding the right critique group

2009-07-13T11:16:00.000-07:00

A good critique group can be counted among a writer's top ten tools. For some writers, it may take a few tries to get just the right group. Others are fortunate to find a lifelong alliance with their comrades. Critique groups can be online or local. I have a wonderful online buddy who is professional, timely and excellent at identifying the weak spots in my manuscripts. She is honest about the readiness of the manuscript and challenges me when she feels I can write better. Our only face-to-face meeting was our first meeting. We hit it off and have been happily critiquing ever since. I also belong to a local critique group - we met through a SCBWI conference. The joy of a local group is the challenge of a deadline. We meet every six weeks and this demands revised/new material. We also enjoy the interaction of hearing the other comments, which often leads to additional brainstorming. Sprinkle in a lot of good laughs and you have a great critique group. The July/Aug. SCBWI Bulletin included a wonderful article written by Jolie Stekly and Sara W. Easterly comparing critique groups to dating. These authors included some valuable tips:

The SCBWI is a great way to meet other writers who may also be looking for a critique group. Ask at meetings, network or post on the SCBWI boards.

Community classes through the library and community colleges are also a networking opportunity.

Put the word out on Twitter.

Be proactive and dedicated. Finding the right group doesn't always happen immediately.

Be clear about your goals and commitment. Your group will having more staying power if you all have the same expectations. Some groups are more casual - meeting occasionally. Others like to have a firm date. Be honest about your time, experience and needs before joining.

The search can be difficult, but certainly worth the wait when you find a trusted group to share frustrations, have some laughs and challenge you to write better. The road to publication is a long one - we can always use more friends along the way.

kids + vacation = no writing (No Sweat)

2009-07-06T21:25:00.000-07:00

Many members of the writing community worry when their writing world is turned upside down by summer activities. Kids are home from school, vacation homes with no wireless, visiting friends/relatives, and the temptation to spend all day outside (okay, this one is actually mine). What's a writer to do? Journal! Author Kristi Holl offers a number of great suggestions in her blog. Be sure to read Part I and II. Kristi suggests journaling your experiences, feelings and dreams during this time. We may lack the time to work on our manuscripts, but we can take a few moments to capture our feelings. It's cathartic, rejuventating and also gives us wonderful material when the crisp autumn air hits us again. What other helpful tips? I've used this summer to finally finish several articles. It's easier for me to focus on one, smaller piece than the overwhelming revision of an entire book manuscript. Research and have fun! Where are you visiting with your children? I'm writing an article about marsupial animals. Off to the zoo we went! Had a great time with the kids and some wonderful research. Does your manuscript involve a museum? A water park? The Liberty Bell? Fourth of July celebrations? Pack a picnic lunch and enjoy the day. Another helpful tip is to use this summer to try your hand at different marketing techniques. Don't have a blog yet? Make that a summer goal. Give Twitter a try. Need a Powerpoint presentation for school visits? Have your kids help you. Last summer, my kids showed me the ins/outs of creative Powerpoints. With the school year full of homework, sports and packed schedules, it can be difficult to find the time. Summer is about relaxation and rejuvenation - both will be a huge boost to your writing. Set a few easy goals, journal and look at creative ways to improve your writing. Enjoy!