What's New

FINDING A MATCH MADE IN HEAVEN

2008-05-13T12:24:00.000-07:00

TIPS TO HELP YOU FIND THE RIGHT ARTIST
by Kim Sponaugle
So let's say that you really don't know where to begin to find an artist to illustrate your children's book. Whether you hire an artist directly or the publisher provides one for you, it's good to have a solid idea of the "feel" you are looking for. You can research several websites such as http://www.picturebook.com/ or http://www.childrensillustrator.com/ to aid in the selection process. You can browse through pages of artists, view their illustrations and build a file of what you like. This file can give the artist a good idea of the style and feel you are looking for. You can email artists directly for information regarding a quote.

Here is a list of things to remember:
1. Have a budget idea for your project even while you are asking for a quote.
2. Hire a professional or someone who has some experience in book illustration. If you are new to book publishing, it's best to work with an experienced illustrator—ultimately, it can be less stressful, and with the right match you will find it is worth every penny!
3. Contact authors the artist has worked with, if you can—this is a great way to see if it has been a good experience for them and will be for you.
4. A contract is important. Always request a contract. It protects and clarifies both the author’s and artist’s obligations to the project.
5. Be flexible, willing to negotiate. Most artists are fair folks and are willing to work with you if the price is reasonable. If not, there are many other fish in the sea!
6. Ask if the artist would be willing to sketch a main character to see if they are a match. Many artists that are interested in your project will be willing to do this for you—for free.
7. Keep an open mind regarding creativity. The artist needs some "room" to illuminate your words. Be patient. Wonderful things can happen!
8. Share your ideas, but leave room for artistic license. There is a balance between the word and image. It's now time to leave your "baby" in the artist's capable hands.
9. Avoid calling the artist "my illustrator." Remember the book's completion is a team effort and, to make your book the best it can be, there needs to be mutual respect.
10. Take your time when searching. Do not let passion for your book project cause you to make hasty and "costly" decisions.
Enjoy watching it all come together!
Below are just a few of Kim's picture book collaborations:
An Angel's First Job
Jamie's Dream
Grandma Kathy Has Cancer

Introducing GENNA, a Tell-It-Like-It-Is Reviewer

2008-05-12T11:28:00.000-07:00

Latest News Flash

2nd grade book reviewer, Genna, has just read KITTY KERPLUNKING: PREPOSITION FUN. Genna loves to read, and with the help of her mom--author & illustrator, Kim Chatel--Genna is now posting reviews of the books she is reading. Genna, according to her mom, gives “the straight scoop” on the books she reviews—no sugar-coating if Genna doesn’t like them.

So I was extremely pleased when Genna posted the following review of KITTY:

This book is about prepositions. Prepositions show where, when or how. I really like the drawings. They are so cute! The main character is Preppy the kitty. He reminds me of my cat, Casey. My favorite picture is the one where Preppy the kitty and his friend are sleeping together on the chair. I like this book because of the drawings and the word games at the end. Preppy made learning about prepositions fun. I think this book would be good for young children.

Read more reviews by Genna at her mom's website...and while you're there, you'll also want to check out Kim's new book from Guardian Angel Publishing, RAINBOW SHEEP. This colorful story involves a shepherdess, some sheep, and a sad rainbow. The book includes 12 Fiber art illustrations and four full pages of Felting for Fun for kids activities, glossary & fiber art activities.

COOL STUFF

2008-05-09T13:47:00.000-07:00

A couple cool happenings for me lately:

On May 7, my blog was the FEATURED CHILDREN'S LIT BLOG on Children's Writing Update (the incredible newsletter for children's writers from the publishers of Children's Book Insider.) Here is what they had to say: In the past couple of years, there's been an explosion in wonderful blogs about children's books and the writing process. Now, in each issue of the Update, we'll profile a unique and helpful blog.
This issue, we highlight an excellent example of an author's blog. Children's writer Cynthia Reeg discusses the craft of writing, her favorite books and useful tidbits for aspiring authors at her online journal. Thanks, Jon & Laura! You truly brought rays of sunshine to my otherwise supremely, soggy Wednesday.

On May 9, while attending the end-of-year OASIS Intergenerational Tutoring luncheon, Carol Ottsen--the local director of the program--asked when my next picture book in THE PET GRAMMAR PARADE series was coming out. She told me how well KITTY KERPLUNKING: PREPOSITION FUN has been enjoyed by the tutors and children. So I was happy to inform her that the next book in the series, DOGGIE DAY CAMP: VERB & ADVERB ADVENTURES is already being illustrated by Kit Grady.

So now you know as well!

Hair, Hair, Everywhere in Picture Books

2008-05-09T07:05:00.000-07:00

When I received this photo of one of my favorite little friends, Mia, I knew I had a feature for my blog. What fun hair Mia has!

Many children's authors have enjoyed celebrating hair--proving that a fertile imagination combined with winning words and great illustrations pave the way for picture book success. Listed below are a few hair-raising PB's...

THE UNEXPECTEDLY BAD HAIR OF BARCELONA SMITH by Keith Graves

CHELSEY'S CRAZY HAIR by Joanne Potts

FRANNY B. KRANNY, THERE'S A BIRD IN YOUR HAIR! by Harriet Lerner & Susan Goldhor

CRAZY HAIR DAY by Barney Stalzberg

BINTOU'S BRAIDS by Sylviane A. Diouf

BEDHEAD by Margie Palatini

STEPHANIE'S PONYTAIL by Robert Munsch (a classic hair adventure)

Interview with MARGOT FINKE

2008-05-08T10:56:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, I mentioned Margot Finke as a contributor to The Purple Crayon, Harold D. Underdown's website for children's writers. Now you have the chance to find out more about Margot in this interview by Mayra Calvani.

Interview with MARGOT FINKE, Children's Author
Interview by Mayra Calvani

Do you consider yourself to be a born writer?
Yes. From childhood I scribbled down story ideas and wrote short stories.

Tell us about your recent release. What was your inspiration for it?
Guardian Angel Publishing will be releasing my picture book, Rattlesnake Jam, in the first half of 2008, in soft cover and CD. This rhyming romp tells about Pa catching rattlesnakes for crazy Gran. She cooks and bottles them as her “cure all” jam, but Pa longs for rattler served up on rice – just once! Artist Kevin Scott Collier’s illustrations are just crazy enough to make kid’s eyes pop! Rattlesnake Jam will be available from Amazon, the publisher, and through my website.

Tell us about your children's books.
I have a rhyming, 6 book series, available on CD and download. Fun and educational, they tell about animals from the U. S. and Australia. Purchase through the BOOKS page on my website (Publisher: Writers Exchange)

Two of the illustrators for this series live in Turkey. One speaks no English and has no computer. The other has a little English and does use a computer. Both are celebrated illustrators and artists in Europe. Thanks to e-mail, and a generous English-speaking friend on a writing list, who acted as go-between and interpreter, Kangaroo Clues and Never Say BOO to a Frilly were delightfully illustrated. The other four artists come from various areas in the USA. They were chosen due to the marvels of e-mail and the internet.

Kids who want to discover more fun information about the critters in this series, can go to either the “Down-under Fun” or the “Wild US Critters” pages on my website.

Some writers go on long walks, others keep a journal, write at a café, or listen to music. What do you do for inspiration and unleashing your creativity?
Great writing thoughts usually pop into my head after I go to bed. I sneak into the bathroom in the dark, and close the door. I keep paper and pencil there – just in case. . .
So, enthroned upon the toilet seat, I scribble down my ideas lest they disappear with the dawn. There must be something about taking a shower, and cleaning my teeth each night, that prods my inspirational juices to flow.

Are you a disciplined writer? What is your working style?
I got a late writing start, so now my kids are grown and on their own. I write every day in my office/flower room. This is where, every winter, I bring my delicate plants to survive the Oregon chill. My husband fitted Gro Lux lights to wall shelves, in what was once our family room. My plants and I enjoy a cozy winter together. It helps mitigate all that gray Oregon drizzle!

Do you like to outline and plot ahead, or are you more of a stream-of-consciousness writer?
A general idea strikes me, and I develop it as I write.

Do you have a website/blog where readers may learn more about you and your works?
“Margot Finke’s World of Writing for Children” is my website. It has sprouted more pages on help for children’s writers than I can count - my BOOKS, Critique Service, Secrets of Writing For Children, WAHOO, School Visits, and much more.

What are you working on now?
Finding a publishers for two Aussie mid-grade boy’s adventures--a ghost mystery set in Oregon, and a letter-driven MG involving a Grandma and her grandson and the troubling forces that draw them together.

What was your experience in looking for a publisher?
Writing books is the easy part. Finding the right publisher is frustrating. Lots of research, networking with other writers, and carefully reading many submission guidelines finally did the trick.

What was your experience in working with an illustrator?
Very positive. I found all the artists for my rhyming animal series through writing lists I am on. Our minds seemed to be in harmony. We swapped thoughts and ideas until each was perfected. I am thrilled with the results.

What type of book promotion works for you? Any special strategies you’d like to share?
A good press release helped me get interviewed by a newspaper and a photo. School visits have worked very well so far, plus purchases through my website, and being a member of AuthorsDen and FaceBook. Lots of networking over the years, plus my “Musings” column, great reviews, and my website gives my name an excellent Google presence. I also sell my books where I do conference Workshops.

We hear again and again that picture books are incredibly difficult to write. Why is that?
Picture book writers need disciplined, sparse writing that makes the most of active and powerful verbs, and well chosen, evocative adjectives. The art of weaving in word clues for the illustrator, rather than whole sentences of descriptive clutter, is hard for many writers.
It’s all about choosing a few special words that paint unforgettable pictures in a child’s head. The craft of writing a really wonderful picture book comes with practice. Some writers “get it,” while others wisely decide their path lies with writing for older children.

How do you see the future of children’s picture books?
As long as there are children to delight and confound us, there will be picture books to do the same. In the near future, I think books read on light, easy to use, and affordable hand held readers, will come into their own. Kids today are computer savvy, and it is just a matter of time and technology, before books that talk and offer colored, animated illustrations, will be all the rage. The future is almost NOW!We hear again and again that picture books are incredibly difficult to write. Why is that?

What advice would you offer aspiring writers?
Read , read, read. Write, write, write. Go to conferences, and join a really good critique group. Stick-with-it-ness is vital.

Harold D. Underdown Visits on Book Bites for Kids

2008-05-07T08:50:00.001-07:00

This week Suzanne Lieurance (from THE NATIONAL WRITING CENTER FOR CHILDREN) is hosting Harold D. Underdown on Book Bites for Kids each afternoon (Tuesday to Friday) at 2:00 pm CST. Harold will be offering all types of advice and information for children's writers. Harold is probably best know for his phenomenal website, THE PURPLE CRAYON, a wealth of information for children's writers. And Harold has also written THE COMPLETE IDIOT'S GUIDE TO PUBLISHING CHILDREN'S BOOKS.

You can call in LIVE and ask Harold a question: 1-646-716-9239. Or if you can't listen live, use the Book Bites link above where all the interviews are archived.

And when visiting THE PURPLE CRAYON, be sure to check out fellow Guardian Angel Publishing author, Margot Finke. She has featured tips there called, "Margot's Musings."

What I've Been Reading

2008-05-05T15:00:00.000-07:00

I wanted to share a few of the books I've been reading.

WHAT THE SEA SAW by Stephanie St. Pierre. Peachtree, 2006. This poetic look at the sea, sky, and creatures is a visual treat. Beverly Doyle’s dramatic illustrations take the reader to the scene. Her lush blues and greens intensify the author’s lilting text. Truly, this picture book is a feast for both the eyes and ears. One that will be read over and over again.

ZIGGY’S BLUE-RIBBON DAY by Claudia Mills. Farrar Straus and Giroux, 2005.Ziggy dreads the school track-and-field day because he is not athletic. He is a good artist, however. When Ziggy decorates his ribbon folder—which is filled with last place ribbons—he is soon receiving blue ribbons in trade to decorate other’s ribbon folders. Mills simple story shows how each one of us has a unique talent—coming first in the race isn’t always important. But learning to use one’s own special gifts is important.

THE APPLE DOLL by Elisa Kleven. Farrar Straus Giroux, 2007. A young girl who “loved her apple tree” decides to keep it close by making a doll from one of the apples. With some help from her mother, Lizzy transforms the apple into a grandma doll. All the other children in her class want to learn how to make apple dolls. Lizzy feels welcomed. End papers with step-by-step instructions on making an apple doll.

EMMA DILEMMA AND THE NEW NANNY by Patricia Hermes. Marshall Cavendish, 2006. Emma’s beloved ferret, Marmaduke, causes trouble for her when he escapes his cage. Threatened with losing him, Emma defies authority and with the help of the new nanny sneaks him into school for show and tell. When Marmaduke bites a student, Emma’s cover is blown. Her busy mom is more frustrated than ever with Emma and her ferret, but the new nanny, Annie, intercedes. Annie calms the household, but she has a number of potentially dangerous mishaps around the children. Will the new nanny be forced to leave like so many of the earlier ones? The children, twins Lizzie & Ira, Tim, and precocious McClain, are deeply concerned. But Annie generous offers to help with Emma’s weekend soccer and finds a place in the family.

ROUGH, TOUGH CHARLEY by Verla Kay. Tricycle Press, 2007. The fascinating story of 19th century Charley Darkey Parkhurst is told in cryptic rhyme in this beautifully illustrated picture book. Excerpts of Charley’s adventurous life are highlighted from his runaway beginnings to his stagecoach daredevil feats and his encounters with gun-toting outlaws. But the most surprising event in the true story occurs when Charley dies, and all discover that Charley is really a woman—the first woman to vote in the United States.

THE ROAD TO PARIS by Nikki Grimes. G.P. Putnam’s, 2006. Young Paris faces a tough world with her older brother Malcolm the only person she can count on for sure. Her father is long gone, and her mother is an alcoholic who has a tendency to choose abusive boyfriends. When Paris and Malcolm run away from an awful foster home, they are separated—to Paris’ great regret. But Paris finally finds herself in a loving foster family with friends and a welcoming church choir where she praises God with her gifted voice. When Paris’ reformed mother calls nine months later wanting Paris and Malcolm to come back, Paris is faced with the tough decision to reunite her dysfunctional family or stay in the safety and love she has found. A heart-warming story of hope and resurrection and of the children in our modern society who have to face a difficult world at much too young an age. Nikki Grimes’ poetic voice sings true in this middle grade novel.

Violins, Trucks, and Good Reads

2008-05-01T18:28:00.000-07:00

Today--on this 1st of May--I had the wonderful good luck to be at Wild Horse Elementary School (The Stallions) just in time to hear the 4th Grade Violin Concert. The 4th Graders were amazing, playing a fun array of songs ranging from Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star to a very modern We Will Rock You! I eagerly joined in the clapping and rocking to the super sounds of these 4th Grade Stallions violin virtuosos. My May Day hat is off as I bow to all of them for a great performance.
Here are my suggestions for some great books about violins:
Playing the Violin and Stringed Instruments by Allison Hunka and Philippa Bunting
The Magic Violin by Mayra Calvani

Also at Wild Horse Elementary I spent some time with Kurtis and Drew. We all thoroughly enjoyed reading Truck Driver Tom by Monica Wellington. Kurtis and Drew designed their own trucks from tag board and colored them. Finally, I helped them find some produce photos in the newspaper, which they cut out and glued onto their trucks for cargo--just like in TRUCK DRIVER TOM.
Truly, this is a fun book on many levels. The art work and maze of trucks & vehicles make this an almost WHERE'S WALDO of the automotive world. But the boys loved the zany combination of photographs and illustrations. Drew cracked-up each time he found a real person's face peeking out of a car/truck/bus window. And Kurtis enjoyed the end paper challenge to find the page where each of the different vehicles was pictured. And I liked the subtle way that the trucking industry was introduced to young readers. Too fun!

Last, but certainly not least today, I want to thank Anastasia Suen for bringing to my attention this wonderful list: READ ALOUD AMERICA BOOK LIST 2008. These books are chosen for various age groups, reading levels, and interests. As stated in earlier posts here on Mem Fox's READING MAGIC, it is never too soon (or too late) to start reading to/with your child. Reading and writing skills are fundamental for helping your child succeed.

For more reading aloud suggestions, go to FOR PARENTS AND TEACHERS on my website and check-out these two articles: READ ALOUD WONDERS and READING ALOUD. And there are still more READING FUN suggestions at the FOR KIDS section too.

Get ready! Set! READ!!!

The BIG READ and WRITE

2008-04-30T08:15:00.000-07:00

St. Louis Writers Guild and Build-a-Bear Workshop Foundation are sponsoring THE BIG WRITE, a writing contest for both elementary and middle school students. This contest will be a part of THE BIG READ literary festival in Clayton, Missouri on October 11, 2008.
Six winners--three in each of two grade levels for 4th & 5th and 6th through 8th. Student should enter the contest as the grade they will be in for the fall of 2008. Prizes for the contest include: cash, award certificates, and Build-a-Bear merchandise. Winners will be announced at the festival, and the winning stories will be published on The Big Read website. There is no limit on the number of entries. For more information: Contest Guidelines. The deadline is September 12.

The Green Earth Book Award

2008-04-25T14:59:00.002-07:00

This award is sponsored by the Newton Marasco Foundation--a nonprofit organization whose mission is to inspire responsible environmental stewardship. This year's winner in the children fiction category is WINSTON OF CHURCHILL: ONE BEAR'S BATTLE AGAINST GLOBAL WARMING by Jean Davies Okimoto and illustrated by Jeremiah Trammell (published by Sasquatch Books.)

For additional information on the other books honored with this award, visit the Newton Marasco Foundation website.

And for information about helping your school or your child's school become more environmentally friendly, visit my website and read the article, "Green Schools."

Every day can be a green day when we make the decision to recycle, reuse, and reduce our waste and fossil fuel energy dependence. With everyone working together we can make a big difference!

LAUNCH PAD Needs Authors & Illustrators

2008-04-21T11:54:00.000-07:00

LAUNCH PAD, a free online magazine for kids 6-12, needs juvenile authors and illustrators. The ezine--a bi-monthly literary and arts publication--includes fiction, nonfiction, poetry, and artwork from children in the U.S.

Read the request below from editor and publisher, Paul Kelsey.

Dear Launch Pad Readers,

I am pleased to announce that the second online issue (Fairy Tales & Fantasy) of Launch Pad has now been published. The issue is accessible on the magazine web site. In this issue, you will meet a genie who loves to work out at the gym, some uninvited guests, fairies that light up the stars, an evil magician, and two brave fairies on a quest to save their village from the dragon. The stories and artwork are superb, and I know you will enjoy reading these outstanding creative works.

Launch Pad still needs contributors. We are looking for works for our upcoming issues about the Ocean, Summer Fun (hiking, camping, summer sports, vacations, etc.) and Mysteries. If you are a teacher, librarian, or parent, please encourage young people to submit their work! We still have space in all of our upcoming 2008 issues, and Launch Pad especially needs young artists. I would welcome any comments that you might like to share about the second issue. Please feel free to forward or post this announcement on listservs, blogs, Facebook, or other resources.

Enjoy the magazine!

All the Best,
Paul Kelsey
Editor and Publisher
Launch Pad: Where Young Authors and Illustrators Take Off!
http://us.f806.mail.yahoo.com/ym/Compose?To=editor@launchpadmag.com
http://www.launchpadmag.com/

Consider this an immediate bulletin for all librarians, teachers, parents--especially those who homeschool their children. What a great way for a child to have his story or her illustration published!

Today's Guest--Cecil Paplinskie

2008-04-21T07:31:00.000-07:00

Stopping by today is author & illustrator, Cecil Paplinskie, who illustrated my story "BF's & Butterflies," in the current edition of STORIES FOR CHILDREN MAGAZINE.

Welcome, Cecil. It sounds like you’ve moved around some in your lifetime. Could you give us a quick overview of your life and how your travels have impacted your art & writing?

I was born in the Philippines. When I was little all I wanted to do was draw. I got a scholarship and at age 19, graduated with a Bachelors Degree in Fine Arts majoring in Advertising. I was lucky; my first job was as an artist for an export company. I would design a theme, angel cows for example. I would then illustrate 20-30 poses of the angel cow doing different things. Then out of these drawings I would do the prototype by sculpting the design. It was fun. The company would join international gift shows, and they would send the artists to look at trends. I got to travel and work with people from all over.

Then I was offered work in China, decided to give it a try, and was there for two years. When I got back, I wanted to get into graphic designing. Computers were starting to be the thing, and I had a feeling that pretty soon things would be done through computers instead of the traditional hand-drawn art that I was used to. I got a contract to be a graphic designer in Taiwan. Although the job wasn’t quite suited for me, I stayed there for a year.

After that, I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do. However, I got lucky and was hired to do part-time illustrating for a children’s magazine owned by an American. I loved it, and I wanted to pursue a career in that field. So when the German Institute of Technology offered a workshop for children’s book writing and illustrating, I took it.

However, my new love for children’s book art had to be put on hold due to personal reasons. Eventually, I ended up in Canada where I met my husband and got married. I worked as a graphic designer in Toronto. When my first child was born, my husband and I thought it was best that we raise our kids in the country. I put my illustrating career on hold for the time being and instead funneled my creative talent into handmade crafts which I marketed. About year ago, I decided to return to my art. For an entire year I made sample artworks, compiled my best work and started writing. I created the illustrations and designed a website. Now I’m excited to be promoting myself and my work.

I love the ballet kitty in her tutu on your website. The kitty illustration has the single word “Dream” incorporated into the picture. What are your professional dreams? Are your dreams part of your motivation?

Very much so. I would love to have a published picture book which I wrote and illustrated someday.

What is the most fun part of the creative process?

When everything is done, and I see how good the finished product is. That to me is the most fun part.

What is your typical illustrator's day like?

I’m a stay at home mom with a two year old and a seven-year-old. My working hours are during the baby’s naptime in the afternoon and from 10-3 during the day. Just like any other job, I work seven hours a day.

Describe your working environment.

Crazy and messy.

From your portfolio, I see that you use a variety of methods for creating your art from computer enhanced images to more formal paintings and also black and white drawings. Do you prefer one over the other? How do you determine what type of artwork you will use for a particular story?

It depends on what the author will ask for. Everyone, it seems, likes how I draw children.

What tips would you offer to others just beginning their career writing and illustrating children’s literature?

I myself am restarting my career. One thing that I am is persistent and hard working. It doesn’t hurt that I love what I’m doing.

What project are you working on now? Or what projects are pending?

I am working with self-published authors, Dionne Winters on her story, Frightful Things and Creepy Ones coming out soon and Zayre Ferrers’ Charlene’s Halloween Party.
I was selected to illustrate one of the stories for Gumboot Books in conjunction with Rotary International and their Literacy Foundation. These are collected stories from authors and illustrators around the world, celebrating different UN holidays.

That project seems a perfect fit for you, Cecil, with your own international background. Thanks so much for sharing your story. I’m sure we’ll see more of your delightful work in the years to come.

To view samples of Cecilia’s work go to her website and to STORIES FOR CHILDREN Magazine, “BF"s & Butterflies.”

School Visit at St. Alban Roe

2008-04-16T11:48:00.000-07:00

Today I celebrated National Library Week and School Library Media Month with the two first grade classes at St. Alban Roe School in Wildwood, Missouri. Both of the classes were great listeners and offered many wonderful ideas. They enjoyed KITTY KERPLUNKING and GIFTS FROM GOD, which I shared with them. And afterwards, I was so happy to see them eagerly checking out books. In fact, many of them couldn't even wait until they had checked out their books but began reading as they waited in line.

Way to go, first graders! And thanks to Mrs. Bobbit, the school librarian, for inviting me for the delightful visit.

Happy reading to all of you!

NATIONAL LIBRARY WEEK April 13-19

2008-04-13T13:41:00.000-07:00

Nancy Pearl, world renown librarian immortalized with her very own action-figure, is pictured to the left to announce that today, April 13, is the start of NATIONAL LIBRARY WEEK.

The American Library Association's website provides a brief history and explanation of this special week promoting libraries:

What is National Library Week?
First sponsored in 1958, National Library Week is a national observance sponsored by the American Library Association (ALA) and libraries across the country each April. It is a time to celebrate the contributions of our nation's libraries and librarians and to promote library use and support. All types of libraries - school, public, academic and special - participate.

The entire month of April is School Library Media Month. I know I'll be celebrating with school students in the St. Alban's School Library on Wednesday when I spend time with two first grade classes and their extremely well-organized and energetic librarian, Christy Bobbit.

How do you plan to celebrate libraries this week? Here are some suggestions:

Check out a library book--or two or three or more

Say an enthusiastic "THANK YOU!" to your librarian

Send your favorite library (librarians) a "Just Because You're Special Card"

Donate time or money to your favorite library

Attend a library story time with your children

Soak up the zen when you stop by your favorite library for some quiet reading time

Interview with JODY FELDMAN

2008-04-12T08:38:00.000-07:00

Author of The Gollywhopper Games, HarperCollins, 2008.

Greenwillow
ISBN: 0061214507
320 pages

Yesterday I had the wonderful opportunity to catch a quick lunch with author Jody Feldman, whose new book—THE GOLLYWHOPPER GAMES—has just been nominated for the American Library Association’s 2009 Best Books for Young Adults.

Jody was on her way to a school visit and feeling in a bit of a whirl from her busy personal life and recent book promotion events which have offered numerous travel opportunities.

As we munched on our Asian-flavored entrees, I asked if she knew that THE GOLLYWHOPPER GAMES was being considered for the YALSA list.

“I had no idea,” she said. “The book is listed by my publisher for ages 10-14. I guess that makes it borderline young adult.” She explained that she’d been in total shock for at least 10 minutes when she first heard the news.

“How has your life changed since your book has come out?” I asked.

“I’ve not been able to write,” she said immediately. “I’ve been spending more time on publicity, but I’m really looking forward to getting back to writing.” She told me of her new plan to write every morning and leave her afternoons open for publicity work.

When I asked her what had been the most fun and exciting part of her book’s release, Jody said, “Being here and seeing it all happen—the whole bundle of going through what a regular author does. Holding the book in my hand. Getting that connection with the kids. The sense of fulfillment.”

Jody has waited a long time for her well-deserved fulfillment. The idea for THE GOLLYWHOPPER GAMES first entered her mind nearly 20 years ago as she overheard an unhappy child in the school library trying to find another book with the same feel as Roald Dahl’s CHARLIE AND THE CHOCOLATE FACTORY. She became determined to create a book for adventure-minded young readers. Readers who like puzzles and games and quick-witted contests.

THE GOLLYWHOPPER GAMES’ journey to print was itself a great adventure—not for the weak of heart. Jody wrote and rewrote the story; she submitted it and received rejection after rejection. She put the story away for a long time, until finally she joined an online writers’ group and began revamping the story yet again. When she finally found an interested agent, Jennie Dunham of Dunham Literary, Jody still had to wait another three years before an editor, Virginia Duncan, at HarperCollins’ Greenwillow imprint ultimately perceived THE GOLLYWHOPPER GAMES’ great potential and helped Jody shape it into the amazing story it is today.

Currently, Jody is working on a new middle grade/young adult book with another seventh-grade boy main character. The book will border on the fantastical—“like you might experience in dreams,” she said.

As we wrapped up our lunch, I asked, ”What advice do you have for writers?”

“If you don’t really, really want to do it (write), don’t do it! Find something else.” She explained how determined writers have to be. “Willing to get down on their knees and scrub the floor sometimes”—knowing that there will be lots of hard work involved in the publishing process. It’s not the glamorous lifestyle so often portrayed in the media.

“And a writer needs to be open to knowledge from wherever you can get it,” Jody said. She likes to listen to kids and adults, to those who like and don’t like her stories. She explained that using all this information can help her write a better story.

I said my goodbyes to Jody as she refilled her to-go cup, fueling up for her school visit in just 15 minutes. She seemed a bit harried but quite happy with her new role as successful children’s author.

Muse It Up

2008-04-07T12:31:00.001-07:00

Today I'm offering a review of Lea Schizas' book, ASSAULTING A WRITER'S THINKING, as well as the opportunity to receive the Ebook FREE! Look for the details following the review.

ASSAULTING A WRITER’S THINKING by Lea Schizas

In this humorous motivational how-to Ebook for beginning (or reluctant) writers, Lea Schizas—award-winning author and editor—tells it like it is. No holds barred. She de-mystifies the writing life and provides real insights into the profession.

· Chapter 1: Explains many of the “roller coaster” ups and downs inherent for those who choose to weld the pen.
· Chapter 2: Offers numerous suggestions for seeing story ideas everywhere—even in a dresser drawer. A great bonus in this chapter, especially for children authors, is a list of questions which helps the writer enter back into the childhood mode.
· Chapter 3: Provides tips on finding a critique group and emphasizes the importance of doing so.
· Chapter 4: Advises writers to use research material to create more than one story and submit stories and articles to various magazines and publishers to increase market presence.
· Chapter 5: Encourages writers to keep plugging away despite rejections and failures—to keep believing.
· Chapter 6: Reiterates the need for writers to be as professional as possible by setting (and meeting) goals, maintaining a writing schedule, networking, and following publishers’ guidelines.
· Chapter 7: Emphasizes the rallying cry to “Keep at it!”
· Chapter 8: Lists a variety of links for writing-related associations, agents, editors, publishing houses, and much more.
· Bonus Chapter from her full-length book on writing: Muse It Up. If this first chapter is any indication, the book must be jam-packed with hands-on helps and encouragement for beginning authors. This one chapter alone provides a wealth of suggestions to motivate any reluctant writer.

Here is more information on Lea Schizas:

Author of the award-winning Young Adult Fantasy Novel
THE ROCK OF REALM

Co-author & Editor of THE MUSE ON WRITING
http://leaschizasauthor.tripod.com Email: museitupeditor@yahoo.ca

Lea Schizas is an award-winning author/editor, a short story competition winner,
living in Montreal with her husband Jimmy and their five children. She describes herself
as “finally woke up after a 23-year self-induced coma taking care of the family, and
re-discovered my passion for writing.”

She is the co-founder and Editor-in-Chief of two Writer’s Digest 101 Top Writing
Sites of 2005 & 2006 and recipients of the Preditors and Editors Most Useful Writing
Sites Award: Apollo’s Lyre, an online writer’s Zine: http://www.apollos-lyre.com and
the online writing critique community The MuseItUp Club,
http://museitupclub.tripod.com/

-Founder of The Muse Online Writers Conference,
http://www.freewebs.com/themuseonlinewritersconference/
-Founder of The Muse Marquee, http://themusemarquee.tripod.com
-Founder of The Muse Book Reviews, http://themusebookreviews.tripod.com
-Co-founder of Coffee Cramp eZine http://coffeecrampmagazine.tripod.com
-Reviewer for the award-winning site AllBooksReviews.com
-copy editor for Double Dragon Publishing

You can read more of Lea’s bio and accomplishments at: http://leaschizaseditor.tripod.com/

To receive your FREE copy of ASSAULTING A WRITER'S THINKING, send me an email via the Contact section here on my website.

More Great News!

2008-04-03T14:46:00.000-07:00

I received a letter from HIGHLIGHTS for CHILDREN magazine today announcing the publication of my poem, "Reaching for the Stars," in the November 2008 issue of their magazine.
How exciting!
I started writing this poem while at the Highlight's Foundation Chautaugua Workshop in July 2005. My writer mentor for the week was David L. Harrison, a poet laureate from Missouri. It was during one of his presentations that the poem took shape.
So I offer a salute today to Mr. Harrison. I'm including some links below to a few online sites with information about him. Of course, he has a large number of books available either through bookstores or libraries. He writes not only poetry and stories for children but also nonfiction books as well.

A MATTER OF METER
By David L. Harrison
http://www.teachingk-8.com/archives/articles/a_matter_of_meter_by_david_l_harrison.html

The article explains some of the rhythmic patterns used in poetry with examples by children. The author also offers suggestions for presenting the topic to students.

RANDOM HOUSE MEET THE AUTHOR
http://www.randomhouse.com/author/results.pperl?authorid=12056

Brief highlights of Mr. Harrison’s writing career and education

THE READER: THE JOURNAL OF ARKANSAS READING ASSOCIATION
“Fluency Fun: Kids Love the Sound of Words”
http://www.arareading.org/The%20Reader%20-%20fluency.pdf

An interview with Mr. Harrison and examples of his poems

BF's & Butterflies

2008-04-02T10:57:00.000-07:00

Exciting news today! My short story for mid-grade readers is now in the April issue of STORIES FOR CHILDREN MAGAZINE: http://storiesforchildren.tripod.com/id491.html

Here's the scoop on "BF's & Butterflies"

Small town girl, Leya, wants to figure out a way to befriend Kari, the new girl, before Nasty Nona, self-crowned queen of fifth grade, claims her. Leya’s just lost her BF—Best Friend—Lucy, who’s moved all the way to Florida. Now as Leya struggles to find a new BF, as well as her place in her fifth grade class, she discovers that butterflies can lead to friendship.

And here's the scoop on Stories for Children Magazine: a FREE Ezine for children ages 3 to 12 years old. This monthly online children's magazine takes children on an adventure into the World of Ink. Each issue is loaded with fun stories, articles, puzzles, children's book reviews, crafts, poems.

SFC was "voted one of the Top Ten Best E-zines in Fiction, Non Fiction, Poetry, Cover Art, and Bookstores on the web -- Preditors and Editors Readers Poll 2007."

Be sure to stop by http://storiesforchildren.tripod.com/ and enjoy!

BLOG FEST for Children's Writers

2008-03-29T13:34:00.001-07:00

Be sure to stop by Lea Schizas' BLOG FEST at The Writing Jungle http://thewritingjungle.blogspot.com/

Starting the week of March 29, she is hosting a large group of children's writers. They'll be sharing snippets of their stories and characters as well as tips on writing.You won't want to miss it. Plus, there will be prizes awarded to some of the lucky visitors who post comments. I'll be stopping in at the Blog Fest...why not join me!

StoryTubes CONTEST for KIDS

2008-03-26T14:44:00.001-07:00

This news is from the AMERICAN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION:

StoryTubes 2008 national contest

Kids across the United States in Grades 1–6 are invited to participate in a national contest. They can make a two-minute video about their favorite book, upload it to YouTube, go to the StoryTubes website, and submit a link to the uploaded video using the contest entry form before April 20. The four winners in each genre category will win $500 in books and select a school, library, or educational association to receive $1,000 in books....

The contest begins April 1.

Each week during May, one video will be selected. The creator of the video will receive $500 in books and the winner's school (home school) or library will also receive $1,000 in books!!!

http://www.storytubes.info/index.html

These are the four video categories:
Hair Raising Tales
For or From the Heart
Of Heros and Heroines
Facts, Fads, and Phenoms

Go to the Story Tubes link to find out all the details.

Good luck!

Children's Choice Book Awards--Vote Now

2008-03-26T14:24:00.000-07:00

From the CHILDREN’S BOOK COUNCIL:
Since 1975, the Children’s Book Council and the International Reading Association have sponsored Children’s Choices, where publishers submit some 700 titles to be evaluated and voted on by 10,000 children throughout the school year. This year, CBC is opening the contest up to children across the country. Kids can cast their votes for favorite books, author, and illustrator at bookstores, school libraries, and online through May 4. Winners will be announced during Children’s Book Week, May 12–18.
http://bookweekonline.com/kidsvote.html
Favorite books can be voted on in these categories: Grade: K-2, 3-4, 5-6, and Favorite AUTHOR and ILLUSTRATOR

There are 5 choices in each category

Make sure to vote on your favorites...and if you haven't read some of them yet, you still have time!

NO MORE GUNK!

2008-03-26T13:57:00.000-07:00

Donna Shepherd has created a fun and health conscious picture book highlighting the importance of good dental care with NO MORE GUNK!

And kids will love Kevin Collier's bright illustrations.

http://www.nomoregunk.blogspot.com/

When you visit the book's blog site, you'll find links for caring for your teeth and a wonderful review of the book by Gayle Jacobson-Huset, Assistant Editor of STORIES FOR CHILDREN MAGAZINE. http://storiesforchildren.tripod.com/

The author/illustrator duo have also teamed up on an earlier healthwise picture book, OUCH! SUNBURN, which is included in the Double Doozie. Two books for the price of one!

Be sure to copy and print the free coloring page from NO MORE GUNK!

Happy coloring and happy flossing!

Spring Craft & Book Time

2008-03-26T13:15:00.000-07:00

The bugs featured on today's blog
are courtesy of Nikki Schaefer
http://www.nikkischaefer.com/ from her illustrations for my poem
BUGGY ALPHABETICS.

http://www.cynthiareeg.com/writings/alphabetics.html

Have a fun time with your little critters and help them celebrate the arrival of spring using Eric Carle's book, THE VERY HUNGRY CATERPILLAR. This book is filled with one brilliantly colored page after another. An insatiable caterpillar literally eats his way through a week and almost everything else. In end, of course, he changes into a beautiful butterfly.

After reading the book through a time or two with your child, help him create a caterpillar puppet using a white tube sock and permanent markers. Slip a piece of construction paper or tag board inside the sock so the markings don't go through to the other side.
To make the butterfly, use a clothes pin and tissue paper and chenille wire. Here's a link to the San Diego Zoo's Crafts for Kids to show you how: http://www.sandiegozoo.org/kids/craft_butterfly.html

The Zoo Crafts also has another caterpillar craft: http://www.sandiegozoo.org/kids/craft_caterpillar2.html

Or your child might like to make a string of food (that the caterpillar could eat) by clipping photos from magazines or newspaper ads. Punch holes in the foods and then string them up with days-of-the-week name tags interspersed through the pictures.

Other books by Eric Carle that you can share with your child are
THE GROUCHY LADYBUG
THE MIXED UP CHAMELEON
THE VERY BUSY SPIDER

Happy reading and crafting!

Picture Books I've Been Reading

2008-03-26T10:57:00.000-07:00

Below are a few of the picture books I've been reading. These books offer a wide variety of subject matter and illustrations.

ONE THOUSAND TRACINGS: HEALING THE WOUNDS OF WORLD WAR II by Lita Judge. Hyperion Books for Children, 2007.
This is a simply told, true story of a girl and her mother in post-World War II United States who began a grass roots movement to provide shoes and supplies to war victims in Germany. The end page collages of photos and letters combined with the breathtaking watercolor illustrations bring this tale to life with poignant detail. This book is a slice of history and humanity that should be shared in every classroom. http://www.amazon.com/One-Thousand-Tracings-Healing-Wounds/dp/1423100085/ref=pd_bbs_sr_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1206555149&sr=1-1

THE STORY OF SALT by Mark Kurlansky. G. P. Putnam’s Sons, 2006.
A colorfully illustrated history of salt, this book examines one of the most common elements used worldwide. Kurlansky shows how salt, now virtually taken for granted, has played such a pivotal role in various locales in the past. A timeline of “Salt through the Centuries” concludes the text. http://www.amazon.com/Story-Salt-Mark-Kurlansky/dp/0399239987/ref=pd_bbs_sr_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1206555188&sr=1-1

HENRY’S FREEDOM BOX by Ellen Levine. Scholastic, 2007.
This 20008 Caldecott Honor book tells the fictionalized description of Henry “Box” Brown’s escape from slavery in 1849 when he mailed himself to freedom from Richmond to Philadelphia. The bold pictures and provocative story should encourage young readers to find more books exploring slavery in the pre-Civil War United States. http://www.amazon.com/Henrys-Freedom-Caldecott-Honor-Book/dp/043977733X/ref=pd_bbs_sr_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1206555227&sr=1-1

AT GLEASON’S GYM by Ted Lewin. Roaring Brook Press, 2007.
Bold, bright illustrations accompany a condensed story of Sugar Boy Younan’s workout routine and quest for the National Silver Gloves Champion in the 110 Pound Bantam Weight Division. A couple of girl boxers are shown in the story as well, but the book’s primary audience would seem to be boys—especially reluctant readers. http://www.amazon.com/Gleasons-Gym-Neal-Porter-Books/dp/1596432314/ref=pd_bbs_sr_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1206555264&sr=1-1

Meet JENNIFER GLADEN

2008-03-24T14:10:00.000-07:00

Meet JENNIFER GLADEN—teacher, mom, and children’s author.
Her first children's picture book, A Star in the Night, will be released this summer by Guardian Angel Publishing. http://www.guardianangelpublishing.com/

Do you consider yourself to be a born writer?

Yes! Even as a child, I could always be found writing something. I wrote stories and poems for my teachers. I wrote in my journal every day. In short, it’s always been a part of my life. Growing up, I was a quiet little girl. Writing was my way of communicating with the world.

Did you always want to be a writer?
I sure did! It wasn’t until I took a few courses at the Institute of Children’s Literature that I realized this was something I really could do. I’m grateful that I chose to follow my dream. If I didn’t, I’d be missing out on the greatest career in the world!

Tell us about your children's books.
My first children’s book, A Star in the Night, will be published by Guardian Angel Publishing sometime this summer. It is a Christmas themed eBook about a boy, Andy, going home on Christmas Eve. Andy, accompanied by a shimmering star, encounters three experiences, which change his view of Christmas forever.

Do you have a website/blog where readers may learn more about you and your works?
Yes. My official website is http://www.jennifergladen.com/.You can also find me on my blogs: http://jgladen.blogspot.com/ andhttp://jengladensmusingswordpress.com/.

How has being a teacher helped you with your writing career?
Teaching helped me with my writing in many ways. It's the best research a writer could have. I interacted with children every day. I saw what problems they were dealing with, how they reacted to it, what was important to them. Also, I have worked as an after school leader at the Free Library of Philadelphia. There, I helped students with homework and designed a craft once a week. That has helped me get to know children of all age levels. I've worked with Kindergartners through eighth graders.

My educational training helps me keep my characters real for fiction. I'm more in tune with what situations would apply to certain ages. I've learned how to "make learning fun," which I hope carries over in my nonfiction pieces.

How do you find time for your writing?
When I get up in the morning, I throw on a pot of coffee. It helps me wake up. After the girls are at school, I begin my day as early as possible. My toddler is still home with me. So I know the earlier I start, the more I'm likely to get done.

Most of the time, I have to demand my writing time. Especially when all three kids are home. It sounds harsh, but it also helps the kids learn boundaries. They're learning that Mom needs the computer, printer and her whole office at certain times of the day. Of course, there are always interruptions—anything from picking the kids up at school—to having a medical emergency. In fact, the little things that make me leave my desk (making lunches, reading a story to my toddler, letting the dog out) force me to take mini breaks. Otherwise, I know I'd barrel through the day without stopping. However, I try not to waste any moments. Ideas sneak up on me when I'm walking and driving, so I started carrying around a mini notebook.

When my husband has off from work, he knows he has full supervision of the kids. These are my "power writing" days. I try to get as much done as possible because it's less likely I'll be interrupted.

What are you working on now?
My current project is a picture book about a little girl, Olivia, who needs a liver transplant and her brave journey to get it. While many children are wondering if they’ll learn to ride a bike, Olivia is wondering when that life-saving transplant will happen. We see the struggles and complex feelings in which she deals with daily.http://jengladensmusingswordpress.com/.

This book was inspired by my own daughter who needed a liver transplant. When I looked for good books to read to her, I saw nothing which could help a child of her age cope with this situation. “There should be a book about this,” I complained to my husband. Voila—Olivia was born.

What advice would you offer aspiring writers?
My advice to aspiring writers is to stick with it. Be persistent in your dream. Don’t give up in the face of rejections. Just pick up your manuscripts, dust it off, revise (yes – for the umpteenth time) and send it out elsewhere.This is your dream and your goal. The only one who can assure your success is you.

-original Interview by Mayra Calvani, http://www.mayrassecretbookcase.com/