The Writing Life: Putting Yourself Out There

 by Jean Daigneau

When I sold my first two picture books over 20 years ago, I couldn’t know

 that not only would those books never be published, it would take almost 20

  more years to see my first book in print.

Happily, just over 2 years later, my second nonfiction book was published by

Chicago Review Press as well.

Early on my writing journey, I attended a writers’ event where picture book author Eric Kimmel put a scenario to the attendees. Kimmel had us imagine having a crystal ball and seeing a future where we would never get published. Only if we continued to write anyway, he said, would we have what it takes to pursue publication.

            If anyone had told me then what a roller-coaster

 ride pursuing publication would be, I might not have

 believed it. Actually, I’m not sure I would have stuck it

 out. Over those years, through rejection after rejection,

 my late husband always asked, “But are you having

 fun?” whenever I complained about the challenging,

 changing world of children’s publishing. My answer

 always sounded like, “Oh yeah! I’m learning amazing stuff. I’m having fun. I’ve met interesting

 authors, editors, and agents. I’ve made wonderful friends.”

            Writing then and even more today is a lot about taking risks. It means putting yourself out there and taking advantage of opportunities you might not otherwise have considered. It means getting involved in writers’ organizations, attending events whenever possible, finding critique partners, and giving your writing as much priority as you possibly can. It means taking rejections with a thick skin and getting back to the keyboard the next day and the next and the next.

While it took me two decades to get a book

 published, I’ve sold greeting card text, educational

 testing material, nonfiction children’s poetry and

 crafts, and adult freelance articles. I’ve appeared on

 local television and radio and presented at writers’

 events, and I write a quarterly column for

  Children’s Book Insider. I’m blessed to be

 represented by Vicki Selvaggio of Storm Literary

 Agency. None of these opportunities were on my radar when I first considered publishing.

         Today, writing is more challenging than ever. The industry has faced challenges, not the least of which was an epidemic. My critique partners and I often question why we write. But then one of us usually answers, “Because we can’t not do it.” As hard as it is to admit, Eric Kimmel was right. These days, I’m sticking my neck out further with an adult project. This story came to me because of a family connection, and I never saw it coming. While I regularly remind my co-writer, “I write for kids,” I know I’d be foolish not to at least try.

            Because, in the end, it’s about putting myself out there. Day after day after day. The worst that can happen is that I never see this project published. But then again, maybe someday I will.

Jean also co-owns a freelance critique editing service, Two-4-One Kid Critiques, LLC. Learn more about Jean on her website: https://jeandaigneau.com/

When You’re Not the Expert: How Picture Book Writers Can Tackle Topics and Places Outside their Realm

Today, we're excited to share a guest post by author Emma Smith, author of the forthcoming To Live on an Island and other titles. Welcome, Emma!  - Lisa Amstutz



By Emma Smith

Many of us have heard the advice that we should write about what we know. When querying, we’re urged to show that we are the best person to tackle this topic. What, then, made me qualified to write a picture book about a place I had barely heard of, never mind visited, till a few years ago? Going into this project, I felt my own sort of imposter syndrome.

I first read about Washington State’s beautiful San Juan Islands while researching a historical nonfiction picture book set in the same area. I’d always had  a thing for islands and had visited many, from Monhegan and Mackinac to Skye and Corsica. The San Juans sounded as magical as any place I’d ever seen. I was enchanted. And I wanted to write a book describing what it was like to grow up there.

Despite the fact that I had never been to these islands (something I would soon remedy), deep inside, I believed I could write this book. My expertise came from my fascination with and growing affection for the place. Furthermore, later, as I traveled the Islands, I realized that my outsider perspective actually helped me see things locals took for granted. For example, I was struck by the frequent hum of tiny airplanes overhead—something residents don’t even notice anymore. Many people get around by small plane there. I knew I had to put that in the book.

But I wanted to be sure I would get things right. One bookseller gently expressed trepidation, explaining that non-local writers who set books in the San Juans often completely over-romanticize them. I get it. I live in San Francisco, a city so burdened by clichés that it’s hard to know what’s real. I worked hard to capture the magic and charm of the Islands without relying on fantasy and stereotype. I hope I succeeded!


If you want to write about a place (or person) you have limited personal connection to, here are three things you can do to make sure your book rings true:

•    Visit the location. The internet is pretty darn good, but still, there is no substitute for experiencing the sounds, smells, and sights in person. Sit in a café and eavesdrop. Shop at the supermarkets. Catch a flick at the local movie theater. I spent an unforgettable week on the Islands, trying to live like a local, not a tourist.

•    Interview locals. I am shy and an introvert, but I forced myself to meet people. Most helpfully, I had coffee with two Island moms. I asked them questions and, even though I felt silly doing it, I literally read them my rough manuscript, asking them to fact-check and comment on each section. They shared anecdotes I would never have gotten anywhere else, and some of them made it into the book. I also introduced myself to all the booksellers, and each one was kind and supportive. (That’s not really surprising, because booksellers in general are awesome!) These personal interviews made me feel connected to the Islands in a meaningful way.

•    Be humble. Don’t pretend to be the expert. Ask questions. Be honest about the fact that you are an outsider but that you want to do the place justice. I introduced myself to the owner of the general store on one small island, explaining that I was a complete newbie to the area. She was so enthusiastic that she actually made me borrow her car to drive around the island to experience it better! (I had ferried over on foot.)

My next three books are closer to home. Coming up, I have picture books about a dog who survived the 2017 Northern California fires (which also affected my family and friends), the white alligator at the California Academy of Sciences (which I’ve been visiting since I was a child), and Alcatraz (another island—but this time right here in San Francisco!). With these subjects, my hometown advantage made me feel, from the get-go, somewhat more confident and qualified (not that I claim to be an expert on them). But now I’ve learned that writers can also take on topics that hail from far outside their realm, if they do so with integrity, respect, and care.

Emma’s next few books will be published by Sasquatch, Boyds Mills Press, Charlesbridge, and West Margin Press. Her first book, Journey: Based on the True Story of OR7, the Most Famous Wolf in the West, won Bank Street’s Cook Prize and the Sigurd Olson Nature Writing Award. To Live on an Island comes in May 2019 from Sasquatch/Little Bigfoot. Visit Emma online at emmabsmith.com.

Twitter: @emmablandsmith

Facebook: Emma Bland Smith

Instagram: emmasmithsf

 

Scarlet's Magic Paintbrush by Melissa Stoller

We're delighted to welcome Melissa Stoller to the Six Pens blog to share about the process of writing her new picture book, Scarlet's Magic Paintbrush, illustrated by Sandie Sonke. Read on to learn more about Melissa and her beautiful book!

=====================================================================
By Melissa Stoller

I’m delighted to be here with you Lisa, to discuss my magical debut picture book, SCARLET’S MAGIC PAINTBRUSH (Clear Fork Publishing, August 2018). Illustrator Sandie Sonke (www.sandiesonkeillustration.com) is an incredible artist and I’m thrilled that we’re collaborating on this book.

Gathering the Idea and Writing the Manuscript:

Here’s a bit of background about the book’s journey. Although I’m not an artist, I love art history and spending time in museums. A few years ago, I was at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City, gazing at paintings by my favorite artists, the French Impressionists. I wondered, what would it be like to paint like an Impressionist? And I thought to myself, I wish I had a magic paintbrush so I could paint like that. And the idea for SCARLET’S MAGIC PAINTBRUSH was born.

I remember brainstorming the idea. I asked myself many questions:

What if a little girl really did have a magic paintbrush? What would she paint? Would the paintings be perfect? How would she feel about that? And then, what would happen if she lost the magic paintbrush? Could she ever paint again? Would her creativity take over? And, what if she found the magic paintbrush?

In answering these questions, I wrote my first draft. Then I revised, revised, revised. I firmly believe that the true story is revealed during revisions. My critique partners were invaluable throughout the whole process. And several classes along the way were also truly helpful as I developed my craft, including The Children’s Book Academy “Craft and Business of Writing Children’s Picture Books,” “Making Picture Book Magic,” and “Inked Voices” workshops.

From Manuscript to Book:

Time passed, and I found myself in another museum, The Kimbell Art Museum in Fort Worth, Texas. I was enjoying a special day with Callie Metler-Smith, founder of Clear Fork Publishing, who published and illustrated my debut chapter book, THE ENCHANTED SNOW GLOBE COLLECTION: RETURN TO CONEY ISLAND. I mentioned that I was working on a picture book inspired by my love of art and art history, and Callie liked the idea and ultimately the manuscript!

Enter the marvelous Mira Reisberg, founder of the Children’s Book Academy and Editor and Art Director at Clear Fork Publishing. Mira, aka the Picture Book Whisperer, is my incredible editor and art director for this project. And she brilliantly paired me with the very talented illustrator Sandie Sonke, who is bringing this story to life.

I’ve had several sneak peaks into Sandie’s process and I can’t wait to share the whole book. I just love the cover - it is truly enchanted! I hope children enjoy the story and the art and I know the book will sprinkle a bit of magical creativity throughout the world.

Thanks again Lisa, for allowing me the opportunity to showcase my debut book and Sandie’s beautiful cover!

Melissa’s Bio:

Melissa Stoller is the author of the chapter book series The Enchanted Snow Globe Collection - Book One: Return to Coney Island and Book Two: The Liberty Bell Train Ride (Clear Fork Publishing, 2017 and Summer 2018); and the picture books Scarlet’s Magic Paintbrush and Ready, Set, GOrilla! (Clear Fork, Summer and Fall, 2018). She is also the co-author of The Parent-Child Book Club: Connecting With Your Kids Through Reading (HorizonLine Publishing, 2009). 

Melissa is an Assistant for the Children’s Book Academy, a Regional Ambassador for The Chapter Book Challenge, an Admin for The Debut Picture Book Study Group, and a volunteer with SCBWI/MetroNY. Melissa has worked as a lawyer, legal writing instructor, freelance writer and editor, and early childhood educator. Additionally, she is a member of the Board of Trustees at The Hewitt School and at Temple Shaaray Tefila. Melissa lives in New York City with her husband, three daughters, and one puppy. When not writing or reading, she can be found exploring NYC with family and friends, traveling, and adding treasures to her collections.

Connect with Melissa:

www.MelissaStoller.com

http://www.facebook.com/MelissaStoller

http://www.twitter.com/melissastoller

http://www.instagram.com/Melissa_Stoller

http://www.pinterest.com/melissastoller

Great Expectations: Ten expectations of authors on the road to publication

by Lana Wayne Koehler and Gloria G. Adams, authors of Ah-Choo!

Expectation # 1: My first draft will be perfect.

   When we each first began our journey toward becoming professional writers, we assumed that the first draft of our work was also our final product. Boy, were we in for a big surprise! Then, we joined critique groups, attended conferences and workshops, and read books and articles about writing children’s books. We each practiced our craft. We learned that there would be many, many edits and drafts before we felt we had done the best that we could. Then, after we sold our manuscript, our editor for Ah-Choo! made even more changes!

Expectation #2: I should send my manuscript out to every publisher.

   All publishers do not take children’s manuscripts. Many publishers don’t take unsolicited submissions; you must submit through an agent. Some publishers are only interested in young adult or middle grade novels. Some only want non-fiction or picture books. Some only publish religious books. It’s very important to thoroughly research publishers to find out if they accept submissions, in what format you should submit, and what they might be looking for. The Children’s Writer’s and Illustrator’s Market is a good resource; publisher’s websites and editor and agent interviews are also great sources.

Expectation #3: I will hear back from the editor or agent in a week or two.

   Today, more and more editors never respond; they will tell you that if you haven’t heard from them in three or six months (or often longer) that you should assume they are not interested in your manuscript. Agents usually respond much sooner than editors. Be patient and keep writing.

Expectation #4: My book was picked up by an editor! No more re-writes!

   Ah, foolish Mortal. There will almost always be re-writes! And more re-writes.

Expectation #5: When I sign my book contract, I will get a big advance!

   Unless you are a well-known writer, advances are either small or non-existent. We feel very fortunate to have gotten an advance for Ah-Choo! It was small and we each only got half, but we still got one. It all depends on the publisher. You might consider having a lawyer look over your contract. If you have an agent, he or she may be able to negotiate a better advance for you. The advance will also have to be recovered by your publisher before you will receive any royalties.

Expectation #6: Now that I have an editor, things will go smoothly.

Of course, having an editor who loves your book is exciting, but our editor wanted to put her own mark on our book. We excitedly worked with her and offered us some great suggestions! She mentioned that she liked squirrels so we added squirrels. She said that she had a great picture of a rooster so we added a rooster. However, when a suggestion changed our meter, we rebelled. In a conference call, we asked her to read the book aloud and when she did, she understood our objections and we saved our meter. However when we received our book, two verses were changed! Moral: Get final text approval in your contract!

Expectation #7: Once the editing is done, my book will be published right away.

Our book, Ah-Choo!, was purchased by Sterling Children’s Books in November, 2013. The original publication date was fall, 2015. In the end, our roll out date was March 1, 2016. Enough said.

Expectation #8: My publisher will manage the marketing of my book.

Well, yes and no. Our publisher has been very generous with their support by supplying posters, bookmarks, bookplates, and note cards. They have also marketed it to public libraries, bookstores, and (soon) to zoos. They have paid for us to attend a conference and have submitted our book to state and local book events. However, it is up to us to publicize our book to schools and libraries through interactive programs and presentations. We also make arrangements with local booksellers for book signings. We are hoping to add newspapers, magazines, radio, and local television in the near future. It’s up to us to manage the “who, what, when, where, and how” of marketing our book.

Expectation #9: I will make lots of money with my book!

Maybe—if you’re a New York Times best seller! Here’s the deal on picture books: the average picture book sells about 4,000 books. A run of books is 10,000. Royalties are split between the  illustrator and author (and as co-authors, we split them again). It's easy to see that in order to make a reasonable living as a writer, you need to write and sell MANY books each year.

Expectation #10: Now that I have an editor/publisher, they will always buy what I write.

Good luck on this one! Our editor asked for anything we write. While we submit our manuscripts to her, we have yet to interest the publisher in any new projects. Such is the life of a writer!

Luck and Karma

By Julie K. Rubini 

One of my favorite quotes is, “Luck is what happens when preparation meets opportunity.”
   
The Roman philosopher Seneca could have been referring to my journey as a published children’s book author.

My story has a tragic beginning, but a beautiful, new ending.

Julie K. Rubini

My oldest daughter, Claire, died July 6, 2000. She was just ten years old.

Claire left behind her parents and a younger sister and brother who loved her very much, and a chocolate Labrador puppy she wasn’t too sure about.
   
She also left behind a passion for books and reading. Claire was never far from a book, and often used reading as an excuse to get out of chores. Often her dinner got cold, as she begged to read “one more chapter, please Momma?”
   
We encouraged her passion from birth. Every night while reading to our children, I would go to that back flap of the book. As a freelance writer, I thought it was important that they learned about the authors and illustrators.
   
Soon after her death my husband Brad and I felt compelled to honor Claire in a way that was true to her. We kept coming back to books and reading, yet couldn’t quite get our heads and hearts around anything but getting through the day.
   
Then a moment of divine intervention, karma, pure luck, or whatever you want to believe happened.
   
Six months after I gave her “one last hug” while she walked off to her campsite, we were on a flight to my oldest niece’s wedding in Jacksonville. There, in my seat pocket was an in-flight issue of Time Magazine. Slightly tattered, the cover intrigued me.
   
For within was a story about former First Lady Laura Bush and her involvement with the Texas Book Festival. I’ve always been a huge fan of hers, so I read on. What resonated with me was the fact that the TBF featured Texas-born authors and illustrators, or who had written books set in the Lone Star State.
   
Wham! From all those years of teaching my children about all of you, I’d discovered a way to honor her, as well as all of your amazing work that brought such joy to our family.
   
I turned to my husband sitting across the aisle, and with tears in my eyes, I said, “Read this article. This is what we are going to do to honor Claire.”
   
Claire’s Day was born.
   
Although we promote Claire’s Day as Northwest Ohio’s largest children’s book festival, it is Ohio’s only book festival dedicated to children.
   
And, now into our 15th year, we are no longer just a day. Not that we ever were.
   
Claire’s Day has always featured a dozen or so of our region’s most prolific authors and illustrators. And, a highlight of the day, is our C.A.R.E. Awards - Claire’s Awards for Reading Excellence. Given to children who are selected by their principals as being the most improved readers in their schools, the awards include a special certificate and a coupon for the recipient to choose his or her very own book from the selection authored or illustrated by our special guests.
   
In 2002 we gave out 23 awards. On May 21, we anticipate honoring 800 children.
   
For the first few weeks of May this year, over 20,000 children at 43 schools will witness the magic of a school visit by one of our guest writers and artists.
   
And I’ll be amongst the featured authors this year.
   
In 2007, while speaking at Claire’s Night, our fun reception for grownups the night before the festival, I shared that I had written my memoir. In the audience was Anne Margaret Lewis, who was not only author, but owner of Mackinac Island Press. She had just written and published Hidden Michigan. They were looking for an Ohio writer to pen the Buckeye State version.   
   
Hidden Ohio was such an amazing introduction into the world of being a children’s book author. Well received by educators, librarians and families alike, Hidden Ohio was featured as the 2012 Ohio Arts Council Governor’s Awards Book.   

It taught me how much I enjoyed researching and presenting material in a way that children and families would enjoy.
   
I continued to write, conduct school visits, created a social media presence, joined a critique group, and all the other steps one needs to do to become published, even after the fact.
   

I met Michelle Houts at the reception prior to the 2009 Books by the Banks book festival in Cincinnati. She had just had her first book published as well, and after becoming instant friends, vowed to help each other from becoming one-hit wonders.
   
Michelle and I connected once again at the Northern Ohio section of SCBWI the fall of 2013. I was in the midst of seeking re-election to our City Council (I was approached to serve a year before. I did not actively seek this role originally. Are you sensing a theme here?) and trying to establish a succession plan to Claire’s Day.       
   
Michelle told me about an exciting new series for middle grade readers. Ohio University Press was seeking proposals for their biographies for young students. I responded, “Wow, that sounds like something I’d be interested in.” Michelle thought I’d be perfect for the project, and provided me with the initial contact information.
   
I walked away from the conversation thinking, “What the heck did I just get myself into? I’ve never written middle-grade, much less a project of this magnitude.”
   
Once again, I jumped in, with every ounce of my being.
   
Missing Millie Benson: The Secret Case of the Nancy Drew Ghostwriter and Journalist was released last fall. I’ve enjoyed nice reviews and feedback from critics and readers of all ages.   

I’m under contract for two more works with the series. One is in the midst of edits, the other due this December. I’m revisiting a YA manuscript and other PB and MG works that have sat latent on my computer for years, just waiting for me to bring the characters out of cyberspace.
   
Claire’s Day has successfully merged with Read for Literacy, I’m enjoying my third year on Council, and have awesome, loving relationships with Brad and our two children, now starting their own lives. They’ll both come join us at Claire’s Day, helping to hand out awards in their sister’s name.
   
It is no surprise to me that as I wrap this up, my Pandora cranks up with Lucky by Jason Mraz and Colby Caillat.
  
I am. And blessed.

Julie K. Rubini is the Founder of Claire’s Day, children’s book author and serves on Maumee City Council. She is the recipient of a Jefferson Award, the YWCA Milestone Award, and UT Distinguished Alumni Award for her efforts to promote literacy and create lifelong readers. For further information, feel free to visit clairesday.org and julierubini.com.