This is a follow-up to a post I wrote in August about the importance of picking a structure for your picture book and committing to it. It might be helpful to read that post first, if you haven’t. After my last post about why it’s so very important to consciously …
Twenty+ years ago, back when I was a beginning writer receiving rejection after rejection, a mentor/friend suggested I back up the truck and try writing for magazines. I know, now, that was simply his kind way of telling me I needed to better understand the framework of STORY. Anyway, I …
Of all the things we treasure in our youth, few things move forward with us. I was surprised recently to discover my three-year old granddaughter cuddling the panda in a red and black striped shirt, affectionately called “Toon” by my son, now 37. He loved Toon when he was about …
This month I wanted to share one of my favorite picture books of all time. I’m embarrassed to say I only discovered the book a few years ago, but immediately fell in love with the magical title, the stunning illustrations and the ingeniously original, lyrical rhyme scheme. On the off …
Author Anne Wynter is here to tell us about her debut picture book releasing in October. With gorgeous illustrations by Oge Mora, EVERYBODY IN THE RED BRICK BUILDING is a fun, rhythmic read-aloud celebrating apartment living and a variety of sounds. In this clever story, one sound leads to the …
Ever since I can remember, my father had a thermos of hot tea with him. It sat on his desk when he was working, rolled around my feet in the car, and caused alarm when he tried to bring it through airport security after 9/11. (They made him pour it …
I’m not sure what the temperature has been like where YOU live, but in Oklahoma? It’s been HOT. Let’s cool off with a cooler than cool book, shall we? First, let’s talk about this cover. It’s cool, right? Check out those stances! Check out those sunglasses! Check out those fringe-y …
My librarian friend ran up to me a few weeks ago and excitedly said that she had a book on order that she thinks I would really like. Noah’s Seal, written and captivatingly illustrated by Layn Marlow. I trusted my librarian friend, so I ordered it. I’m going to be …
I’ve read a lot of picture book manuscripts — written by current and aspiring authors — during the past year. Some have been from conference critiques I’ve done, some from contests I’ve helped judge and some from mentorship programs or writing seminars I’ve been part of. And, recently, as I …
Whoa, baby. I feel really fortunate to have snagged Kelly Starling Lyons for a chat, because this is one. busy. woman. Prepare to be INSPIRED, people. JE: Welcome, Kelly! After watching your recent SCBWI Zoom, I knew you were perfect for this OUTSIDE THE BOX feature. In that presentation, you …