I love celebrations, especially those that involve books. International Children’s Book Day is a day to celebrate children’s books which includes picture books and easy-to-read stories written exclusively for children, and fairy tales, lullabies, fables, folk songs, and more. What is International Children’s Book Day? International Children’s Book Day (ICBD) is a celebrated event dedicated … Read more
When people ask me what I am writing, the truth is most of the time I am editing a story. While every author needs to have their manuscript edited by a professional editor, but authors can begin with a good self edit. I have found that incorporating self editing techniques before sending my manuscript off … Read more
On February 7, 2024 classrooms around the world took time to celebrate and honor the power of reading and sharing stories and expand the scope of global literacy. As Pam Allyn, creator of World Read Aloud Day, reminds us, “World Read Aloud Day celebrates the power, magic, and influence of the read aloud for children … Read more
The power of quitting is very liberating. I am not talking about quitting writing altogether, but rather knowing when to quit a story when it just is not working. I belong to a writing group, Teach Write, of teachers who teach writing. They are a wonderful and supportive group of writers. Each week we set … Read more
This year World Read Aloud Day will be on February 7, 2024. World Read Aloud Day is an annual celebration bringing attention to the importance of sharing stories by challenging participants to grab a book, find an audience, and read-aloud! Reading out loud to children is a fun way to connect with them and inspire their … Read more
Resolutions are great if you can stick to them. For me, by mid January I am back to my old habits. What if I told you that there was a better way to start your year? After reading One Word That Will Change Your Life by Jon Gordon I decided to try it. Each year I pick … Read more
A year in review is an opportunity for authors to look back at their writing life for the past year. Reviews can help you plan next steps for the new year. It is important to focus on what you were able to do rather than the rejections, less than shining critiques or contracts not offered. … Read more
Something they want, something they need, something to wear, something to read. I think you may be familiar with this Gift of Four rhyme. Since this is the season for giving books and reading, I would like to share a few of my favorite seasons readings. Holiday Favorites One of my first holiday books was The … Read more
Books make the best gifts for children. Think back to when you were a child. What are some of your memories of gifts you received? I think we are all likely to remember the big gifts, such as your first bike, special doll, or game. You are also likely to remember something else — the … Read more
November 15th is I Love to Write Day. It is a day for people of all ages spend time writing. You can write a poem, a love letter, a greeting card, an essay, a short story, start a novel, finish a novel … the possibilities are endless. John Riddle, started I Love to Write Day … Read more
