Do you want to know a writing secret? Writing is hard work and writers need and should take a break. I will be taking some time off from writing this blog for the month of August. I may even take a break from writing stories. Every writer needs time to rest, relax and regroup. I … Read more
To note or not to note? That is the question on the minds of most writers. I am referring to illustration notes. With my books Gertie Save the Day and Two Wins for Wiley I could not be happier with the illustrations. Did I use illustration notes? Illustration Notes If you write picture books, you’ll … Read more
We often get asked why we wrote Two Wins for Wiley. It was a beautiful collaboration with my daughter Caitlin. Caitlin is an acupuncturist and is the guest author of this blog post. In most cases, a children’s book is written by one author. If the author is fortunate enough to find a publisher, the … Read more
When revising one of my picture book drafts, I like to spend time checking my page turns. I ask -Have I created a reason for the reader to turn the page? In my research, I found many techniques authors use to create an irresistible page turn. Feel free to try one or more. Pose A … Read more
Have you received harsh critiques from fellow authors? Most of the time the critiques I receive are very helpful pointing out strengths and weaknesses. Just this week I received a harsh critique that stated my premise was silly because cats do not wear glasses. They went on to say, I had a blatant disregard for … 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
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
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
You have written your picture book manuscript. It has been revised and it has been through several edits. You are ready to submit your manuscript to an agent or publisher, but there’s one more step. You need to write a query letter. A query letter is a letter written for literary agents or editors asking if … Read more
Staying motivated as a writer can be hard. I have my fair share of days when pursuing my writing goals is the last thing I want to do. Writing is a journey and there will be times that you may lack the motivation to push past those moments. It is in those moments I try to … Read more
