Adventures in Children Writing

Having Fun

2012-01-23T06:08:00.000-06:00

I recently blogged about my new blog/website and having patience in my process. I'm not having much patience with it myself and have decided I will just keep on posting here until such time as I get it all figured out.

I have been thinking about all of the things I am supposed to do in this writing life...write, edit, read, blog, market, submit, build a platform, create products and services by which to generate income, etc. I've been so caught up in all the things to do, that I have totally lost sight of what drove me to this life in the first place--the love of writing.

When I started my first ICL class and began writing in earnest (or as much as possible with small children), I focused on writing and had fun. I recently realized I am not having fun anymore. And, I'm barely writing.

There is only so much time in the day I can dedicate to writing (and writing related activities), so the snipets of time here and there seem to get taken up by email, blog reading or something besides writing. I want to go back to that fun place. I want to enjoy writing just for writing sake again. Publication has always been and will remain my ultimate goal, but I realized I need to spend some time just writing to see what I can churn out. One of my goals for this year is to generate income with my writing, but, unless I actually produce some writing, that won't even be a possiblity.

So, here's to heading back to having fun. I'll keep you updated along the way.

Anyone else out there having a similar problem?

New Writing Contest

2012-01-20T10:08:00.000-06:00

Hello All,

For those of you who do not receive the ICL newsletter and may not have seen this, there is a new Children's Writer contest to check out. It is a Middle Grade Mystery Contest, and you can find the information here:

http://www.thechildrenswriter.com/af627/

Happy Writing!

Patience

2012-01-09T06:16:00.001-06:00

Please bear with me all. I'm in the process of creating a new blog and/or website to either replace or support this one. I'm not exactly sure how or what is going to happen yet as I have help in the journey (most of you are aware of my fairly technologically inept self:-)). As I work out all the kinks and figure it all out, I'll pass along my new URL and fill you in on my new posting plans and schedule.

Thanks for your patience!

Karin

2011-12-31T06:02:00.001-06:00

Happy New Year!

Wishing you all a healthy, happy and prosperous 2012, both personally and professionally.

Thanks for the support and encouragement over the course of the last year.

Karin

HAPPY HOLIDAYS

2011-12-19T08:11:00.000-06:00

I wanted to take this opportunity to wish you all a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. Between various obligations, preparing for and celebrating the holidays and goal planning/organization, I will be off-line for the better part of the next couple holiday weeks.

May you have a blessed holiday season and may 2012 bring all you wish for, both professionally and personally.

Thanks for visiting and see you in the new year!

Karin

Writing Tips

2011-12-12T06:00:00.003-06:00

WWC member, Doreen Pendgracs, has a writer's blog with tips for freelance writers and authors. This week's post called the "Reluctant Writer" features guest blogger, Margaret Anne Fehr and offers tips on how to motivate yourself when writing about topics for which you lack passion or interest. Take a look and share your thoughts at: http://doreenisthewizardofwords.blogspot.com/.

2011-12-05T05:11:00.006-06:00

M E D I A R E L E A S E
CONTACT: Donna McDine, Editor-in-Chief, Guardian Angel Kids Ezine
Email: submissions@guardian-angel-kids.com
Website: http://guardian-angel-kids.com
For Immediate Release

Children’s Ezine Guardian Angel Kids: Faith – December 2011 Issue

When you think of Christmas, what comes to mind? The smell of cookies baking in the oven and the refreshing aroma of pine trees? Twinkling lights, fancy packages, and crowded stores?

This month our theme for Guardian Angel Kids is Faith. Why not take a few moments out of your hectic schedule to stop, sit down with your child, and talk about the real meaning of Christmas? Let's remember that the celebration is about the birth of a Savior, Jesus Christ. We celebrate His birth because of our faith in Him (See Luke 2:4-19).

As you navigate the crowded malls, bake holiday treats, and wrap garland around the tree, I hope you'll make this issue of GAK a part of your celebration by sharing all the articles, stories, poetry, and artwork in our December issue with someone special.

LETTER FROM THE POETRY EDITOR: Donna J. Shepherd
FEATURED BOOK AND VIDEO:
Diligence the Dragon by Kevin Scott Collier
Video Special for a Journey of Hope the Angelfish by Kevin Collier

CHILDREN’S POETRY, SHORT STORIES, AND ARTICLES:
“Have Faith, Not Fear” by Cathy MacKenzie – faith conquers all.
“Share Your Joy,” by Guy Belleranti – Joyful sounds and helping hands make a perfect blend.

“Have Faith,” by Carol J. Douglas and illustrated by Julie Hammond – put aside impatience and faith will bring results.

“Katie’s Mountain,” by Marion Tickner and illustrated by Kathleen Bullock – the difference between faith and wishes.

“Bands of Color,” by Karin Larson – the religious and multicultural beliefs about rainbows.

“7 Simple Tips to Relieve Holiday Family Stress,” by Dorit Sasson – Embracing the simplistic holiday lifestyle brings balance.

FEATURED DRAWING, GAMES & ACTIVITIES:

Draw and paint an angelfish with Painting Board

Featured Games from Books

Visit Guardian Angel Kid today and www.guardian-angel-kids.com and enjoy a child safe and ad free Ezine.

We also invite you to stay connected with Guardian Angel Kids through our Facebook Fan Page http://www.facebook.com/pages/Guardian-Angel-Kids-Ezine/163785080346247.

Please feel free to drop Editor-in-Chief, Donna McDine an email at submissions@guardian-angel-kids.com and let them know what you think of Guardian Angel Kids and what you'd like to see in the future. They aim to please.

The Guardian Angel Kids Ezine staff and contributors look forward to your visit. Thank you for your time and interest.
###

Thank you.

Regards,
Donna McDine
Editor-in-Chief, Guardian Angel Kids Ezine
http://www.guardian-angel-kids.com
submissions@guardian-angel-kids.com

HELP

2011-11-28T22:21:00.000-06:00

I'm on a mission to determine if I am over thinking what I believe I should accomplish each day or under achieving. I know there are day-to-day happenings in life that affect each of us as writers. I also know we must be able to brush some aside at times to accomplish anything. It seems I start each new week knowing what I want to accomplish, setting out to do so with grand intentions and then continue to let life get in the way.

Granted, I've been dealing with a significant amount of family illness and extra work, but who doesn't at one time or another? I know I am either setting my goals too high and thus making them unattainable (which then often leads me to just give up for the day), or I am caving to the daily responsibilities far too often.

So, for any of you willing to share...can you give me a definitive idea of how much time per day, on average, you spend on writing? On writing-related activities such as market research and marketing current projects? Also, please indicate whether you are a full-time writer or if you must balance writing time with another full or part-time job. Another factor to consider in this mix is whether or not children (or a spouse) at home play a role in time considerations.

Thank you, in advance, for any and all information you can provide to help me figure out a doable schedule to balance writing, family and work. I think seeing what other writers find realistic will help me gain some perspective and foster more creativity, and I thank you for your input.

Chances

2011-11-21T07:02:00.002-06:00

"Take chances, make mistakes. That's how you grow. Pain nourishes your courage. You have to fail in order to practice being brave."
Mary Tyler Moore, American actress

Wow...were more true words ever said? I believe these words apply to all aspects of life though most definitely in terms of writing. It is only through the practice, the chances we take and the mistakes we make that we become better writers.

Practice today and everyday. Happy writing!

Addicted to Books

2011-11-14T09:36:00.000-06:00

I'm curious...how many of you out there have piles of books around your house?

I've decided I have a hearty addiction to buying books...oodles of books! I love hard cover and bought only that for years. I've lightened up a bit and purchased some soft cover as well given the expense involved in hard cover--though I still prefer to read hard cover.

I was doing some rearranging this past weekend and realized how very many books (in stacks, shelves and baskets) I have that remain unread. I still have high hopes of SOMEDAY reading them all though can't seem to cure my habit of adding to my collection when I'm wandering through book stores.

How about you? Do you have stacks of books yet unread as well?

STRENGTHS

2011-11-07T09:09:00.000-06:00

A few weeks ago, I blogged about a new book I purchased, STRENGTHS FINDER 2.0. While I've not gotten very far in terms of reading the book, I did take the test. I found out my five main strengths are the following: Consistency, Harmony, Empathy, Discipline and Developer.

I now have to read through the descriptions of each personalized strength as well as the ideas for action provided. It will be interesting to see if my beliefs and thoughts are in line with what the test indicated and how I can apply these strengths to my writing life and goals. The idea is to focus on one's strengths rather than weaknesses and how to improve them, so I am hopeful I can find something useful to apply to my upcoming goals and objectives for 2012.

Please share if any of you have taken this test and found it useful or not at all helpful and the reasons why either is true. Thanks so much!

Happy Halloween

2011-10-31T07:22:00.000-05:00

Happy Halloween today, All Saints Day tomorrow and All Souls Day Wednesday!

To all of you brave enough to tackle NaNoWriMo...good luck! I'm envious of your commitment and hope to be in a position to do so next year.

How to Become a Freelance Writer: Interview with Suzanne Lieurance, the Working Writer's Coach

2011-10-26T08:43:00.000-05:00

Ready to start a freelance writing business but you don't know how?

Have you been looking online for someone or something that will help you?

Then find out more about the Working Writer's Club in this interview with the club's founder and president, Suzanne Lieurance, the Working Writer's Coach.

The Working Writer's Club might be just what you're searching for!
Q: Suzanne, as the founder and director of the Working Writer's Club what is the first thing you would like people to know when visiting www.workingwritersclub.com?

A: I'd like visitors to know that our club is all about helping freelance writers learn to write better, make more money, and live the writer's life they've always dreamed of living.

Q: Having created your own successful freelance writing career you know what it takes to build momentum. What is one of the most critical steps a writer needs to take consistently to develop their own freelance writing career?

A: The most critical step is to develop your goals - you have to KNOW what you want before you can figure out HOW to get there. Yet, this is the one thing that so many new writers don't take the time to do - or at least they don't take enough time to do it well. They may think that "write a novel this year" is a goal. But actually, I think of a goal as something even BIGGER than that. Writing a novel is an action step toward a goal rather than a goal itself. To get to the goal, consider WHY do you want to write a novel? What do you want this novel to do for you or your career? Your answer to that question is closer to your goal (or at least one of your major goals).

Q: What advice would you give to a newbie in freelance writing? And the intermediate freelance writer that has seen some success, but seems to be in a holding pattern at the moment?

A: Whether you're a newbie or an intermediate freelance writer - or even a very experienced, successful writer - continue to learn from other successful writers.

Join our club or another organization for writers. Then take an active part in whatever group you join. Next, develop a focus for your writing and create no more than 3 major writing/career goals for yourself that you hope to attain within the next 12 months.

Also, constantly evaluate what you're doing to see if it's getting you closer to your goals. If it isn't, then change what you're doing.

Q: By becoming a member of the Working Writer's Club what can a freelancer expect?

A: Well, for one thing, you can expect us to help you create a focus for your writing career or your writing business. And, we can help you create no more than 3 major goals - so you'll get really, really clear about WHAT you want, WHERE you're wanting to go, and then we'll help you stay focused so you take the steps to attain your goals and build your writing career and/or your writing business.

Q: With the wealth of freelance writing information available on the Internet what makes the Working Writer's Club unique?

A: I think the one thing that makes the Working Writer's Club unique is that we're not out to get you into our club so we can sell you a bunch of other high priced programs or products. We just want people who love to write and want to build a business or a career around writing to join our club and make use of all the resources, information, training, networking and support they'll receive for just $9.99 per month. I think another unique thing about the Working Writer's Club is that we all genuinely have fun helping each other be more successful.
Visit the Working Writer’s Club www.workingwritersclub.com today and explore all they have to offer.
Thank you for your time. We look forward to your visit.

Woman Caves

2011-10-24T13:44:00.000-05:00

We are in the process of adding an office for me to our home. I've been visiting with my critique group about how excited I am to finally have my own space to read and write and just be. The sheet rock is being hung as I type! Now, I need to figure out what I want to do in terms of desk, book shelves, furniture, etc. I thought I'd see if there are things I am not thinking of by asking you (whomever is willing to comment:-)) if there are must haves for you in your office/work area. It is exciting to plan yet a bit daunting as I want to create the perfect space. If you have something special you feel necessary to a functional and effective office, please share!

Thanks in advance for any advice you may be able to provide.

"Follow Your Heart"

2011-10-17T07:33:00.003-05:00

I recently read some comments Steve Jobs made about following one's heart. He said he read a quote when he was 17 that said something like, "If you live each day as if it was your last, someday you'll most certainly be right."

He talked about how, since that day, he looked in the mirror each morning and asked himself, "If today were the last day of my life, would I want to do what I am about to do today?"

He said whenever the answer had been no for too many days in a row, he knew he needed to change something. He says...

"Your time is limited...Don't let the noise of others' opinions drown out your own inner voice. And most important, have the courage to follow your heart and intuition...Everything else is secondary."

I think this is terrific advice, regardless of the path one takes in life. As writers, it is utterly important to have the courage to follow one's own inner voice. Life is too short. Love what you do and follow your heart.

MARGIN

2011-10-03T09:14:00.000-05:00

On the advice of the very wise Kristi Holl, I've recently started reading Richard A. Swenson's MARGIN. Swenson states, "Margin is the space that once existed between ourselves and our limits." He discusses the state of the lives of many, that of "marginless living," in that the day to day activities and obligations zap the margin right out of our lives. Thus far, I've read only the first chapter but can tell that it is going to be money well spent. On the very first page, I came across the following which is so definitive of daily life, especially so for busy parents trying to find that ever-elusive balance. It brought me some clarity, and I hope it will you also.

"Marginless is fatigue; margin is energy.
Marginless is red ink; margin is black ink.
Marginless is hurry; margin is calm.
Marginless is anxiety; margin is security.
Marginless is culture; margin is counterculture.
Marginless is the disease of the new millennium; margin is its cure."

If you've read MARGIN and can speak to the benefits you reaped, please share.

Strengths Finder

2011-09-19T06:58:00.000-05:00

I recently purchased a book by Tom Rath called STRENGTHS FINDER 2.0. I've heard of a test by the same name given to college age students to help them determine their path in life and was intrigued when I saw the book. I believe the book offers the assessment as well as much information to help one "have the opportunity to do what you do besst every day." His theory is that "from the cradle to the cubicle, we devote more time to fixing our shortcomings than to developing our strengths." It is an interesting theory. Now I am trying to decide if I move this book to the top of my reading pile or finish the others first. Have any of you either read this book or taken a Strengths Finders Assessment? If so, would you kindly let me know your thoughts on it's merits, so I can decide whether to do so myself sooner rather than later. Thank you!

Expectations

2011-09-14T08:23:00.000-05:00

I woke this morning quite frustrated with my day ahead as there is very little time for writing or any writing related activities. I turned to the beautiful Power Thought Cards by Louise L. Hay that I received recently. I found one that helped my mental state and thought I'd share it with all of you in case you are suffering from the same.

The front of the card says: "I let go of all expectations."

The saying on the reverse reads: "I flow freely and lovingly with life. I love myself. I know that only good awaits me at every turn."

Enjoy your day and find the good that awaits you. I plan to do the same.

Happy Labor Day

2011-09-05T11:36:00.000-05:00

Enjoy the rest this Labor Day should bring you. Recharge your batteries and take off full speed ahead tomorrow.

Happy Labor Day to all!

The Muse Online Writers Conference

2011-08-29T14:43:00.001-05:00

Registrations are now being taken for this year's Muse Online Writers Conference. This conference is like no other I have ever seen. There are numerous ways to gain information, "meet" with and pitch to editors and publishers and learn so much from the great variety of sessions. If you have never researched the conference or The Muse It Up Club, I urge you to do so. The conference is free which is amazing in and of itself but astounding when you see the amount of information and networking gained. Check it out at http://themuseonlinewritersconference.com/.

This year, the conference is being held October 3-9, 2011, and registrations are being taken until September 25. Don't let the sheer volume of possibilities overwhelm you. Pick and choose what works for you and be ready to be enlightened.

Writers on the Move

2011-08-22T09:39:00.000-05:00

Have you heard of Writers on the Move? Taken directly from the website...

"Put your writing career in motion with Writers on the Move. Promote your platform, yourself, and your books! We utilize a number of marketing strategies to increase visibility, readership, and subscriber lists."

To learn more, visit http://www.writersonthemove.com/ or contact Karen Cioffi at karencioffi@ymail.com and put "Writers on the Move" in the subject line.

Working Writers Club

2011-08-16T08:24:00.001-05:00

I am a member of the Working Writers Club (for more information, please go visit http://www.workingwritersclub.com/). Suzanne Lieurance is a Working Writers Coach, and she is phenomenal. I encourage you all to check out her site and join. You won't regret it.

Recently, I won a prize in the club. It is a beautiful set of Power Thought Cards by Louise L. Hay. I wanted to share the one I pulled out to read today as I think it is one many of you will enjoy. If you have never seen these Power Thought Cards, they are beautiful little two-sided squares with messages of inspiration. The front of this one says:

"Every Thought I Think Is Creating My Future."

The message on the back says:

"The Universe totally supports every thought I choose to think and believe. I have unlimited choices about what I think. I choose balance, harmony, and peace, and I express it in my life."

Isn't that a beautiful affirmation? I think it is a terrific way to start a new day.

Thank you, Suzanne, for the wonderful prize, and thank you, Ms. Hay, for the beautiful words of inspiration.

For more information on Louise L. Hay or her Power Thought Cards, visit her website at http://www.hayhouse.com/.

Kick in the Rear

2011-08-09T14:51:00.000-05:00

"Dreams will get you nowhere, a good kick in the pants will take you a long way."
-- Baltasar Gracian

I read this quote this morning in something I had recently received and had to giggle. While I do think dreams are of utmost necessity as they can and do guide our direction, a good kick in the buns does help considerably. I have a dear friend (thank you, Donna!) who provides me with a good virtual slap and/or kick in the pants when needed, and I know full well it does take me a long way. Thought I'd share this today in case anyone else needs a virtual "kick in the pants" as well.

Believe

2011-08-01T07:08:00.002-05:00

I am sure a great many of you subscribe to and receive Children's Writer newsletter, but I wanted to point out something in the most recent August 2011 newsletter in case you missed it. There is an article by Veda Boyd Jones entitled, "The Wisdom of an Oklahoma Cowboy." The entire article is well worth reading if you have not, but she closes her article with some very simple, yet profound, words by Will Rogers.

"If you want to be successful, it's just this simple: Know what you are doing. Love what you are doing. And believe in what you are doing."

Isn't this the heart of the matter with regard to writing, or any given career for that matter? Love what you are doing and believe in yourself. Very inspiring, indeed!

Vocation Advice

2011-07-26T15:46:00.000-05:00

I want to share a YouTube link with you that was recently sent to me. It is a video with Anne Rice discussing vocation advice and self-doubt. I found her very inspiring and hope you do too.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DtfXiZ5PgU4

Choose to Write

2011-07-18T07:05:00.001-05:00

In my reading quest, I recently started reading PAGE AFTER PAGE by Heather Sellers. Early in the book, she discusses the importance of choice. She says one can make that choice and needs to do so.

In Ms. Sellars words, "You pick. That's all you have to do. You have to pick. And then support that choice with every fiber of your being--aka stop complaining."

Sounds simple, doesn't it? Just choose. Choose to write. Put writing first (or don't but accept that without complaint) and make time. Just do it.

This month, I am choosing to read in hopes it will incite my creativity to finish the current projects on which I am working. What are you choosing to do?

Reading Month

2011-07-12T09:05:00.000-05:00

I have designated July "reading month." I've been working on a few things and have been spinning my wheels a bit. I took a look at the piles of books and magazines I've accumulated and ignored and decided July, with all the running to and from activities and family vacations, would be a great time to tackle the pile. While we are now several days into July, I've not been as productive in my reading quest as I'd like though have plowed through several magazines in my pile. Many of the books awaiting my perusal include PAGE AFTER PAGE by Heather Sellers, THE SLIPPERY ART OF BOOK REVIEWING by Mayra Calvani and Anne K. Edwards and LIVING WRITE by Kelly L. Stone.

Do you have any other suggestions I should add to my list? I always enjoy hearing what others find helpful so please share if there is a book that has been particularly useful to you.

Thanks and enjoy the remaining days of summer.

Independence Day

2011-07-04T06:12:00.006-05:00

Happy 4th of July!

Celebrate your independence in all walks of life. Enjoy your day and remember those who fought for our independence.

Use Your Mind

2011-06-28T08:11:00.000-05:00

"It is not enough to have a good mind; the main thing is to use it well."

Wise words by Rene Descartes. I found this so inspiring this morning when I read it. Very often, a good mind is wasted for one reason or another. Other times, one cultivates his/her mind to the fullest potential. This morning, reading the above noted words, I re-affirmed my commitment (despite the summer mush brain I seem to currently have going on!) to use my mind and use it well. Can you commit to the same?

Inspiration

2011-06-21T10:51:00.000-05:00

I was sitting in the orthodontist's office this morning waiting for my kids to finish their appointments. I started reading a great book called SECRETS OF SERENITY: TIMELESS WISDOM TO SOOTHE THE SOUL. There were many wonderful snippets of inspiration, but here are a couple I found especially notable.

"Life is not always what one wants it to be, but to make the best of it as it is, is the only way of being happpy." Jennie Churchill (English Editor & Playwright)

"Life is not a problem to be solved but a reality to be experienced." Soren Kierkegaard (Danish Philosopher)

The second struck me particularly because, as writers, it is that reality we experience which gives us a solid foundation on which to create stories, characters and plot lines. It is often too easy to look at the path of life as problematic, especially in difficult times, but thinking of it as a reality to be experienced on the path to happiness seems very serene and inspiring to me.

Experience your life's reality and use it to create a masterpiece. Happy writing!

Websites

2011-06-13T17:13:00.001-05:00

While reading the May/June 2011 issue of Writer's Digest recently, I came across a list of best websites for writers. For those of you who do not subscribe (though I strongly suggest you do) to Writer's Digest, I wanted to pass along a few of the most noteworthy in my opinion in case you haven't stumbled across them yet.

agentquery.com is reportedly a great place to find an agent.
allfreelancewriting.com/writers-markets is a directory of paying freelance markets.
fundsforwriters.com has tons of great information.
marketlist.com has hundreds of market listings.
editorialanonymous.blogspot.com gives great advice on real submissions.
scbwi.org is a must for writers which even has great info for nonmembers.

Go to WritersDigest.com for subscription (and a bunch of other valuable) information.

Editorial Staff Changes

2011-06-06T06:25:00.002-05:00

Here is a great site full of information regarding editorial staff changes that Harold Underdown compiles from various sources. If you have not seen this before or recently, you may want to check it out. I found some very helpful information.

http://www.underdown.org/chchange.htm

Get Busy

2011-05-30T07:26:00.002-05:00

"Nobody got anywhere in the world by simply being content."
-- Louis L'Amour

What amazing words! As we start this new week (and I try to find the balance between writing and kids at home for the summer), strive to be the best you can be. Don't be content to sit back and just get by. Work hard during your work times and enjoy the relaxing times as well for it is only in taking care of oneself that one can push past the content to accomplish the great many things he/she is meant to achieve.

"Oh, the places you'll go" by not simply "being content."

New Children's Writer Contest

2011-05-23T13:20:00.002-05:00

Have you seen the new Children's Writer Contest information?

$500 GRAND PRIZE!

The rewards are publication in Children’s Writer,
cash prizes, winners’ certificates, and valuable
training in disciplined writing.

If you like writing for children and contests, read on . . .

We constantly hear from editors that the vast majority of the manuscripts they receive are rejected because they were not written to the editor’s specifications. Few editors will consider a story or article that does not meet their specs—precisely.

Writing contests also have exact specifications. That’s why we encourage writers—all writers, new ones and old pros too—to enter contests. They’re excellent professional training experiences and, if you win, they can get you published and pay healthy prize money.

The winners in this contest will be published in Children’s Writer, the monthly newsletter that goes to almost 1,300 children’s book and magazine editors in North America. Along with the winning pieces, we’ll publish an article about the top-ranked entries and their authors. There are also cash prizes. The cash prizes alone are a lot of good reasons to write a piece and enter.

Current Contest: Poetry

The contest is for a single poem, collection of poems, or verse story for children of any age, to 300 words. Entries may be serious or humorous, and take any poetic form. Winners will be selected based on quality of verse—including rhythm, meter, word choice, wordplay, imagery, and the use of other poetic devices (rhyme, alliteration, assonance, or others). Above all, the winning entries will have appeal for young readers.

Entries must be received by October 31, 2011. Current subscribers to Children’s Writer enter free. All others pay an entry fee of $15, which includes an 8-month subscription. Winners will be announced in the March 2012 issue. Prizes: $500 for first place plus publication in Children’s Writer, $250 for second place, and $100 for third, fourth, and fifth places.

Now warm up your computer and write a $500-winning poem or verse story!

The contest rules are important. Please read them carefully.

Obtain Official Entry Form or make online submission
You may submit your entry either online, using our safe and secure entry page, or by regular mail. If you choose to submit online, you'll need to complete your manuscript and save it to a file on your computer.

If you need to pay a reading fee you will be directed to the payment section first.

Children's Writer Subscribers (online submission):
To submit a free entry online, you will need your Children's Writer account number, which is located in our email to you or on your Children's Writer mailing label in the name/address block. For subscribers who are students, it is the same as your student number. Please Click Here to continue.

You will be directed to the Free Entry section.

Non-subscribers (online submission):
If you do not subscribe to Children's Writer, your online entry is welcome. Please click here to continue.

You will be directed to the section requiring the payment of a $15 reading fee.

For Mail-in Entries:
To submit manuscript entries through the mail, please click here to obtain an entry form.

Spring SCBWI Dakotas Conference

2011-05-16T10:05:00.000-05:00

I attended the Spring SCBWI Dakotas conference this past weekend in Sioux Falls, SD. It was a terrific conference with great speakers and many kudos go out to Chris Rylander (RA) and Mary Scarbrough (ARA) for organizing such a great conference. Presenters were Kerry Sparks, Agent; Chris Rylander, Author; Jacqueline West, Author; Emilia Rhodes, Editor. There was also a breakout session in which one could take in a first pages sessions with a panel of authors or hear from Nathan Gassman, Art Director at Capstone. While there was a great deal of information shared and many lessons learned, there were a few nuggets of information I thought many of you could benefit from as well.

Kerry Sparks, Associate Agent at Levine Greenberg Literary Agency, represents picture books, middle grade and YA. She was a wealth of information and said a really good hook is essential as well as anything that makes you stand out.

Chris Rylander is the author of the newly released MG novel, THE FOURTH STALL. I purchased my copy at the conference and am anxious to read it as I've heard wonderful reviews. Chris is one cool guy, and it is a blast to listen to him speak. He's learned a great many lessons throughout his writing and publication process and says the driving force behind publication is to be obsessed (though not creepy:-)) and be persistent (but not hound). I couldn't agree with Chris more when he says you must "commit yourself and give it everything you've got."

Jacqueline West is the author of THE BOOKS OF ELSEWHERE, a MG fantasy series, that sounds awesome. Volume One: The Shadows debuted in 2010. I look forward to reading my autographed copy of that as well. Jacqueline discussed the challenges in writing a series and said it is imperative to consider deadlines, plot construction, character development and the recap.

Emilia Rhodes is an editor at Alloy Entertainment. She discussed YA trends and said publishing is highly subjective, so it is all about finding the right person with the same vision for your particular project.

Thank you all for your words of wisdom and expertise. I believe I can speak for all when I say I came away from the conference with a renewed sense of motivation and focus.

Daily Dose of Inspiration

2011-04-25T17:54:00.000-05:00

Don't follow your dreams; chase them.
- Richard Dumb

I saw this quote this morning, and it seemed particularly meaningful on this sunny post-Easter morning. I'm not sure about all of you, but we've had our share of Spring rain, clouds and all around nasty weather, all of which has affected my attitude and motivation. Yesterday and this morning, however, seemed a new start to Spring. The sun was shining, the birds chirping and the hint of a rainbow was evident in the morning dew. Rainbows always inspire me and, coupled with the above quote, made me feel like chasing new inspiration and a productive writing week.

Join me in the chase, won't you?

The Writer Self-Image

2011-04-18T10:00:00.000-05:00

I started reading Kelly L. Stone's LIVING WRITE: THE SECRET TO INVITING YOUR CRAFT INTO YOUR DAILY LIFE a long time ago but, for a variety of reasons and projects, haven't gotten back to it in some time. I picked it up this morning to browse through what I've read thus far and in what direction the book heads next. I found some highlighted words that really hit home.

Ms. Stone discusses the writer's self-image and the importance of a positive image of oneself as a writer. She further suggests that it is essential to have a positive self-image as a writer to bring writing into one's daily life as a habit. I couldn't agree more. If one views oneself as a writer, one is more apt to live and work as a writer.

Per Ms. Stone, "To create a successful Writer Self-Image, you have to behave like a writer by writing or taking some action toward your writing dream every day." Do you? I know I try to though fail miserably some days. Other days, I do very well at focusing on the tasks at hand. Do you suppose the difference is in how I view myself and my time on those days of less productivity? I am a firm believer in self-image playing a role in my level of productivity whether it be in writing or any other avenue pursued. I, for one, would do well to focus more on the positive when working toward accomplishing my goals. Ms. Stone made a firm case for the need to control and understand the emotions underlying the why in why we write..."whatever your reason for writing, whatever your why, the emotions underlying that why are integral to your Writer Self-Image."

Learn and understand your why if you haven't already. I know doing this will help me tremendously as will finishing this book.

The Writing Life

2011-04-11T09:29:00.000-05:00

I've just started reading PAGE AFTER PAGE by Heather Sellers based on a recommendation I read. Thus far, I've read only the first two chapters but came across a wonderful nugget of inspiration this morning I wanted to share.

Ms. Sellers says, "My writing life was, and is, in every hour of my life."

Seems simple, doesn't it? As writers, we write. We read, we study, we market, we network, and we write. But, as I read the words above, I realized how much I compartmentalize my writing. I designate certain times of certain days to be "writing time." I work around the same obligations every other writer does but realized I often switch off the writer in me while focusing on the other parts of life--kids, husband, work obligations, household chores, etc. Every now and again, something will hit me during these non-writer times that I make note of, but, all too often, my writer self is not paying enough attention and, therefore, misses what could very well be wonderful story opportunities and ideas.

So, from now on, I am going to focus on leaving that switch on at all times to be in that writing life "in every hour of my life."

SCBWI Dakotas Spring Conference

2011-04-04T09:28:00.000-05:00

SCBWI DAKOTAS

Here is the link for more information on the Spring SCBWI Dakotas conference: http://www.dakotas-scbwi.org/Spring_Conference.html

It looks to be a great conference for writers and illustrators alike. Follow the link above for more information about the conference and speakers or to register. Conference speakers include Jacqueline West (NYT Bestselling Author), Kerry Sparks (Levine-Greenburg Agency), Emilia Rhodes (Simon & Schuster Associate Editor), Nathan Gassman (Capstone Publishing Art Director) and Chris Rylander (Author).

I hope to see you all there!

Life as a Writer

2011-03-28T07:55:00.000-05:00

Today, I finished the oft quoted WALKING ON ALLIGATORS. If you've followed this blog at all, you know I've enjoyed many of the quotes and passages very much. This last passage, however, speaks volumes. It is a nod to grabbing the writing life NOW. It reminded me of something my aunt told me long ago..."Life is not a dress rehearsal."

In today's passage, Susan Shaughnessy says the same thing. "The curtain is up. We get no second chance to write what might have been written today...If writing is to be part of your life, the time to write is now."

Take your chance; live your life as a writer. Make it your destiny. I plan to do the same.

Please Stand Up

2011-03-21T10:43:00.000-05:00

This morning, I read a passage in WALKING ON ALLIGATORS that discussed having a vision as well as the importance of the person with the vision standing up and having faith in that vision. Susan Shaughnessy discussed the importance of standing up for your vision despite sometimes being surrounded by people that don't support or understand your vision. Standing up can mean opening yourself up to criticism and discomfort, but, as writers, this is what we must do. She goes on to say, "In a vision, you visualize yourself as the person you want to steadily become. If that person is a writer, standing up means writing. It means writing every day."

So, I charge you...be the writer you visualize yourself to be. Stand up (or sit down!) and write. Write despite any criticism or lack of understanding directed at you. Just write! Today, tomorrow and each day thereafter. I plan to do so.

Save the Date

2011-03-18T08:39:00.000-05:00

The Spring SCBWI Dakotas conference has been set for Saturday, May 14, 2011. More info to come, but, for those of you in the vicinity, it is always a great conference.

Hope to see you there!

Way to go, Chris!

2011-03-07T06:57:00.000-06:00

Chris Rylander is the Regional Advisor for our SCBWI Dakotas group. I had the privilege of meeting him at last year's Spring Conference. His book, THE FOURTH STALL, is now available. Below is what I read in the EXPRESSION ONLINE SCBWI International Newsletter this morning. Way to go, Chris!

. Bravo!! Chris, Kristy, Bridget

* Chris Rylander (SCBWI Dakotas) - New spin on an Old Story - "Diary of a Wimpy Kid" meets "The Sopranos"---that's how publisher Walden Pond Press, an imprint of HarperCollins, bills Chris' first children's book THE FOURTH STALL. According to Andrea Johnson in the Minot Daily News, Minot native Chris said his idea for his book came from a lot of different places. "Part of it was that I just thought it might be kind of cool and fun to put a kid-friendly spin on organized crime, and that it had a lot of potential for action and humor, two things I never could get enough of as a reader," said Rylander, who now lives in Grand Forks and works for Noridian. <>

Chris has been an SCBWI member since 2008. Here's an excerpt of Paul Michael Murphy's interview of Chris in Murphblog:

Murphblog: I’ve seen the book described as "The Godfather for kids". . . What made you think of it and did you run into any problems that might explain why less courageous writers . . . have been reluctant to bring the world of organized crime into children’s fiction?

Rylander: . . . I thought to myself how fun it might be to take organized crime and put a kid-friendly spin on it. There were some challenges, sure, like trying to walk the line between the right amount of violence and having the kids use severed horse heads as pillows and everything. But in the end, I always just asked myself this question: "Is there enough blood and gratuitous violence in this scene?" And if the answer was "no," then I simply added more. And I think it turned out pretty well. One dead body per page is usually a pretty good rule for children’s books. No, but seriously it was a challenge to get that part just right---because I didn't want to soften it to the point where it was cheesy. But I also didn't want to glorify grade-school gang wars. <>

Novel Retreat

2011-02-28T15:03:00.000-06:00

IF:
1--you have always wanted to write a novel for the Middle-Grade or YA market, but have not carved out the time to get it done AND / OR
2--you have a draft of a novel written, but are looking for ideas and strategies to revise and strengthen it and a committed group of like-minded writers to help you with the process AND / OR
3--you would like the chance to meet with two different agents to pitch your novel and gain critical feedback regarding this W-I-P in particular and the children’s market, in general,

THEN:
you are the perfect candidate for A Novel Journey: A Novel Retreat Series in 3 Acts.

If you have questions, please feel free to contact me at NLSharpwriter@yahoo.com.

And if this series of retreats is not right for you, but you know someone who may be interested, please feel free to forward the information to them.

Happy writing! Happy traveling!

Nancy (aka N. L. Sharp)
www.NLSharp.com

If this applies to any of you out there, I encourage you to learn more. Nancy is wonderful, and this would be an incredible experience. I wish I could attend!

Rhythm & Rhyme

2011-02-28T14:41:00.000-06:00

Do any of you write in rhyme? I am working on final edits on a PB I have and need some work on the rhythm and rhyme. I've received some wonderful articles from Margot Finke and have all of her books to read and study; however, I also wanted to see if there are other helpful books/articles/websites out there I should explore. If you have something to share, please do. I'd be most grateful to you for helping BEDTIME KISSES see the light of day on a book store shelf one day.

Thanks and happy writing!

2011-02-21T09:26:00.000-06:00

Knowing is not enough; we must apply.
Willing is not enough; we must do.
~ Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

Isn't this the truth? I read this recently and added it to my list of meaningful quotes posted near my computer work space.

I hadn't before really thought of it this simplistically, but, as writers, it is so true. Knowing what we want to write isn't enough; we must actually write. Wanting to write isn't enough; we must actually write. Very well said!

Let's write, shall we?

Happy Valentine's Day

2011-02-14T10:08:00.000-06:00

Happy Valentine's Day! On this start of a new writing week, I wanted to share some words of inspiration. It is sometimes daunting to look at what needs to be accomplished and the time constraints in which to complete said tasks. I often find comfort in the words of others and wanted to offer a few I find helpful in gaining the perspective and balance required in life.

“You are never too old to set another goal or to dream a new dream.”
C.S. Lewis

“All great achievements require time.”
Maya Angelou

“We write to taste life twice.”
Anais Nin

“Never give in and never give up.”
Hubert H. Humphrey

“Be who you are and say what you feel because those who mind don’t matter and those who matter don’t mind.”
Dr. Seuss

Happy Writing!

Highlights Workshops

2011-02-09T14:33:00.000-06:00

I received this information in an email recently and wanted to pass it along for any of you who may not have seen it. I've never been but understand that Highlights workshops are well worth the time and money invested. I hope to get there one day.

This spring, the Highlights Foundation has three exciting new workshops to help you meet your writing goals. Our faculty members are children's literature professionals. They have been where you are now, and they know just what it takes to get your writing off the computer and into the hands of eager young readers. Take a look at the first-time offerings below and see our other 2011 workshops at www.highlightsfoundation.org.

Learn to Self-Edit and Revise
Harold Underdown, longtime editor and the author of The Complete Idiot's Guide to Publishing Children's Books, will introduce writers to proven techniques for self-editing and for revising with the help of others, from checklists to reader response theory to critique groups. Through lectures, hands-on work, and model critique group sessions, participants will gain objectivity, learn to give more focused responses to manuscripts, discover a variety of techniques for self-editing, and explore big-picture revision down to copy-editing. How to Revise on Your Own and with Others (March 10-13, 2011) is limited to twelve participants.

Intensify Your Middle-Grade Novel
Shape and intensify your novel in progress through group critiques, targeted writing exercises, and consultation with novelist and editor Rich Wallace. Rich is known for his award-winning novels for young adults; but much of his recent work has been for this younger age group, including his novels Sports Camp and War and Watermelon, and his two series, The Winning Season and Kickers. This exciting new workshop will focus on developing age-appropriate (and realistic) dialogue, internal monologue, action, and the all-important narrative voice. Writing Novels for Middle-Graders (April 7-10, 2011) is limited to twelve participants.

Write for the Ear and the Eye
Short works, whether picture books, short stories, easy readers, chapters, or poems, require the ability to jettison the verbal baggage that can bog down a story. Children's writer Juanita Havill and writer/editor Susan Pearson will show you how to write with precision and economy and how to revise with ear and eye. You'll analyze exemplary "short" works for children and young adults, learn how to create taut plots and to link episodic chapters by means of an overarching plotline, and analyze and put into practice techniques for self-editing. Time to Be Brief: Taking the Time to Write Concisely (May 19-22, 2011) is limited to twelve participants.

The Highlights Foundation keeps workshops small so you get the individual attention your writing deserves. To apply and secure your spot, or for more information, contact Jo Lloyd at 570-253-1192, e-mail jo.lloyd@highlightsfoundation.org, or request an application online.

Highlights Foundation Founders Workshops take place near Honesdale, Pennsylvania. You'll stay in your own cozy cabin, surrounded by 1,300 wooded acres and hiking trails. Workshop fee includes individual cabins; all meals (provided by a top-notch chef); airport pickup service, if needed; and an intimate teaching setting at the homeplace of the Founders of Highlights for Children.

Please feel free to share this e-mail with others who might have an interest or to include the information in blog posts or through other social networking forums.
________________________________________

Character Chart

2011-02-07T07:30:00.000-06:00

It has been some time since I've taken the opportunity to explore sites I've book marked. Today, I popped into Verla Kay's Website for Children's Writers and Illustrators. I found an extremely in depth character chart that Verla Kay has posted as something that worked for her. I'll share it here below, but please take the time to go explore Verla Kay's website if you have not. There is a tremendous amount of information and knowledge to be gained.

A Character Chart for you ...

Verla Kay has designed a character chart that "worked for her." Here it is. She hopes it works as well for you as it did for her.

Character's name _______________________ Sex _________ Age_______
The date the story starts _______________________________________________________
Importance of the date _______________________________________________________
Birthdate of character _______________________________________________________
Physical appearance _______________________________________________________
Hair _______________________________________________________
Eyes _______________________________________________________
Teeth _______________________________________________________
Facial features _______________________________________________________
Height_________Weight_________
Body type _______________________________________________________
Flaws/assets _______________________________________________________
Mannerisms _______________________________________________________
Posture _______________________________________________________
Speech _______________________________________________________
Movements _______________________________________________________
Habits _______________________________________________________
Personality _______________________________________________________
Basic attitude _______________________________________________________
Self-image _______________________________________________________
Yearnings-dreams _______________________________________________________
Fears-apprehensions _______________________________________________________
Code of ethics _______________________________________________________
Sense of humor _______________________________________________________
Special talents-skills _______________________________________________________
Hobbies _______________________________________________________
Likes _______________________________________________________
Dislikes _______________________________________________________
Favorite things _______________________________________________________
Colors _______________________________________________________
Music _______________________________________________________
Clothes _______________________________________________________
People _______________________________________________________
Books _______________________________________________________
Art _______________________________________________________
Foods _______________________________________________________
Places _______________________________________________________
Movies _______________________________________________________
TV programs _______________________________________________________
Sports _______________________________________________________
Activities _______________________________________________________
Medical History _______________________________________________________
Blood type _______________________________________________________
Overall condition of health _______________________________________________________
Past injuries-illnesses _______________________________________________________
Mental health status _______________________________________________________
General history _______________________________________________________
Education _______________________________________________________
Religion _______________________________________________________
Family _______________________________________________________
Financial situation _______________________________________________________
Profession/grade _______________________________________________________
Marital status _______________________________________________________
Other relationships _______________________________________________________
Surroundings _______________________________________________________
Environmen _______________________________________________________
Positive traits _______________________________________________________
Negative traits _______________________________________________________
Important events/dates in character's history:
Day: _________ Date:_________ Event: _________ (repeat as many times as necessary...)

What an in depth sketch, Verla Kay. My hat is off to you!

You can find Verla Kay at http://www.verlakay.com/

Great Start

2011-01-31T08:11:00.000-06:00

Wow...how is this for a great start for a new writing week?

"You don't have to be great to start, but you have to start to be great."

Wise words by Zig Ziglar passed along from Suzanne Lieurance recently.

It is, very often, difficult to take that leap and get started on something new. The fear of the unknown can cloud and squash the motivation and excitement before it gets rolling. Don't let it. Just start!

Have a wonderful and productive writing week.

Good Reading

2011-01-26T06:38:00.000-06:00

This morning, I was catching up on some blog reading I'd been neglecting a bit. I came across some wonderful things and would like to direct your attention to two. It will be time well spent.

First, Virginia S. Grenier shares 12 pieces of writing wisdom on her blog, The Writing Mama, http://thewritingmama.blogspot.com/. You can find it at http://thewritingmama.blogspot.com/2011/01/12-nuggets-of-writing-wisdom.html

Next is a monthly ezine by Mayra Calvani and Anne K. Edwards called Voice in the Dark which I had not heard of before. There are book reviews (one is the book of a dear friend, Donna McDine, for her book THE GOLDEN PATHWAY which is what drew me to the newsletter in the first place), interviews (Donna's is there as well--way to go, Donna!), articles and columns, fiction, etc. It is jam packed with goodies and is very easy to subscribe if you chose to do so. Follow this link for the January/February issue http://voice-in-the-dark.com/ Happy Reading!

Learn by Doing

2011-01-19T13:27:00.001-06:00

I realize I quote WALKING ON ALLIGATORS very frequently; however, it continues to speak to me on so many levels. The following quote from Sophocles sparked very pertinent words by Susan Shaughnessy.

"One learns by doing the thing; for though you think you know it, you have no certainty until you try."

Ms. Shaughnessy follows these words with a discussion about how action teaches. "Steady writing, writing every day, proves whether or not you can do what you want to do." She goes on further to say something that was a major a-ha moment for me.

"Delay is the trap that few writers wriggle through. But some do. Will you be one of them?"

Wow...here I thought I was the queen of procrastination but, sooner or later, I would get around to accomplishing what I set out to do. But, you know what? I haven't! I spend so much time thinking about doing it, organizing myself and my life so as to make time to do it, but I never wriggle through that delay. There is never any more time to actually DO IT (unless I want to rise far earlier than I already do, that is).

I've come to realize just how there will always be something getting in my way. Planning and organizing for an upcoming vacation, work obligations, kid activities, a great book I can't put down, etc. The list goes on and on. It took a light bulb going off in my head thinking about how quickly summer will arrive (despite the current frigid sub-zero temps), and kids will be out of school for that set of excuses to start clouding my day. My time is now. I'm going to take it and run. If you have some great ideas of time management and taking the bull by the horns to just do it, I'd love to hear them.

Tranquility

2011-01-10T06:59:00.000-06:00

I was reading a bit of Susan Shaughnessy's WALKING ON ALLIGATORS this morning as it has been a while since I have. I was thinking about organizing my week and day as the kids are home today with school closed for a snow day. Susan's very pragmatic words spoke clearly to me today. I am very guilty of waiting for the most perfect, opportune time to write and/or tackle writing related activities and do frequently get side tracked when something messes with my best laid (and well-intentioned) plans. Here is what she wrote:

"Are you waiting until your life 'settles down' to write? Lives don't settle down...Writing is accomplished in the midst of all the activity and emergencies of an ordinary life."

So true, so true! I, for one, am very guilty of waiting for the perfect time, with no distractions, no kids, no laundry, etc., getting in the way. But, you know what? There is NEVER a time with nothing to do, nowhere to go. We must, as writers, carve out the time needed and take it, chores be damned.

So, join me today in committing to following Susan's words:

"Don't wait to write until your job becomes less stressful. Don't put off your dreams until the day when tranquility comes along and gives you permission to write. Write anyway."

I will. Will you?

Pondering Goals

2011-01-03T14:01:00.000-06:00

Happy New Year! Best wishes for a healthy, happy and prosperous new year to you all!

As I sat pondering my new goals for 2011 this morning, I was catching up on some blog reading. Kristi Holl posted a wonderful set of questions that got me thinking. Kristi suggested really spending some time this week pondering several questions, even journaling about them, to help set reasonable goals which one can attain. I wanted to share them with you in case some do not follow her blog (though, if you don't, you should!). Here is what she suggested this morning:

Take plenty of time to journal these questions this week:

How did I do on my 2010 goals (if you had any)?
What habits contributed to successfully completing any of the goals?
What situations/events/habits got me off track this year?
What worked for me in the past to get back on track?
What non-writing goals (in the areas of health, relationships, day job) would support the success of my writing goals?
What can I do to make the writing more fun (which motivates you to work on your goals)?

I am deep in thought about all of these and know I will set much better goals as a result. Thank you, Kristi!

To read more of Kristi Holl's wise words and thoughts, go to http://institutechildrenslit.net/Writers-First-Aid-blog/

Goals

2010-12-27T08:30:00.000-06:00

The Morning Nudge I received recently from Suzanne Lieurance is one I wanted to share, in part, with you. If you are not part of her Morning Nudge program, I strongly suggest you consider doing so. Her daily "nudges" are extremely helpful in focusing one's day in the right direction.

As we look to the start of the new year, we always consider our progress or lack thereof on goals from this past year, make resolutions and set new goals for the upcoming year. I found Suzanne's suggestions particulary helpful as I consider where I've been and where I am heading in this new year.

Per Suzanne, ask yourself:

1. What worked? In 2010, what did I do that allowed me to accomplish my professional goals or at least took me closer to accomplishing those goals?

2. What didn't work? In 2010, what did I do that really didn't take me closer to accomplishing my professional goals?

3. What's next? Based on what worked and what didn't work in 2010, what do I need to do in 2011 to accomplish my career goals?

Please consider visiting Suzanne's website and signing up for The Morning Nudge Club. You won't regret it! For more information, go to http://workingwriterscoach.com/

Happy Holidays!

2010-12-24T08:34:00.000-06:00

Wishing you all a blessed holiday season and very Merry Christmas. Here's to toasting that the New Year brings all the time and balance you need to begin the 2011 writing year with a bang!

Children's Writing Trends

2010-12-20T08:17:00.000-06:00

I recently happened upon this information and thought it may be helpful and interesting to many of you. I know, for myself anyway, it is difficult to keep a pulse on all the different books and themes out there, what is most or least popular, etc. I found this list helpful in that regard and hope you do too.

Scholastic Experts Issue List of ‘Ten Trends in Children’s Books from 2010’
Posted December 8th, 2010 by rthomasScholastic Press ReleasesCorporate NewsJudy NewmanScholasticScholastic Book ClubsScholastic Book FairsScholastic experts pick top 10 trends in children's books in 2010
New York, NY — December 8, 2010 — Scholastic, the largest publisher and distributor of children’s books, today released a list of 10 Trends in Children's Books from 2010. The list was compiled by editors from Scholastic, including children’s literature experts from Scholastic Book Clubs and Scholastic Book Fairs, divisions of Scholastic that distribute books from all publishers through schools nationwide.

"We've seen some exciting innovation in children’s publishing in 2010, including new formats and platforms for storytelling that are helping more and more kids become book lovers," said Judy Newman, President of Scholastic Book Clubs. "At the same time, we’re seeing a rejuvenation of some classic genres, which I think is evidence of the timeless power that stories and characters have on the lives of children."

1.The expanding Young Adult (YA) audience: More and more adults are reading YA books, as the audience for these stories expands.
2.The year of dystopian fiction: With best-selling series like The Hunger Games and The Maze Runner, readers can’t seem to get enough of fiction that suggests the future may be worse than the present.
3.Mythology-based fantasy: Rick Riordan's Percy Jackson series set the trend – and now series like The Kane Chronicles, Lost Heroes of Olympus and Goddess Girls are capitalizing.
4.Multimedia series: The 39 Clues, Skeleton Creek and The Search for WondLa are hooking readers with stories that go beyond the printed page and meet kids where they are online or via video.
5.A focus on popular characters – from all media: Kids love to read books about characters they know and recognize from books, movies and television shows. Titles centered around those popular characters (like Fancy Nancy, David Shannon's “David,” or Toy Story characters) are top sellers.
6.The shift in picture books: Publishers are publishing about 25 to 30 percent fewer picture book titles than they used to as some parents want their kids to read more challenging books at younger ages. The new trend is leading to popular picture book characters such as Pinkalicious, Splat Cat and Brown Bear, Brown Bear showing up in Beginning Reader books.
7.The return to humor: Given the effects of the recession on families, it is nice to see a rise in the humor category, fueled by the success of the Diary of a Wimpy Kid series, Dav Pilkey's The Adventures of Ook & Gluk: Kung-Fu Cavemen from the Future, and popular media characters like Spongebob, and Phineas & Ferb.
8.The rise of the diary and journal format: The Diary of a Wimpy Kid series is the most well-know example of this trend, but the success of Wimpy Kid is leading to popular titles such as Dear Dumb Diary, Dork Diaries, The Popularity Papers, and Big Nate.
9.Special-needs protagonists: There is a growing body of literary fiction with main characters who have special needs, particularly Aspergers Syndrome and Autism. Examples: My Brother Charlie, Marcelo in the Real World, Mockingbird, and Rules.
10.Paranormal romance beyond vampires: The success of titles like Shiver and Linger, Beautiful Creatures, Immortal, and Prophesy of the Sisters shows this genre is still uber-popular and continues to expand.
For more information about Scholastic, visit our Media Room at http://mediaroom.scholastic.com/.

Contacts:

Tyler Reed
212.343.6427
treed@scholastic.com

Sara Sinek
212.343.6899
ssinek@scholastic.com
.

Children's Writer Contest

2010-12-13T10:02:00.000-06:00

In case you do not subscribe to Children's Writer and have not seen this, here is a wonderful contest with great pay out and exposure in the much acclaimed Children's Writer. For further information, see http://www.thechildrenswriter.com/ad028/

$500 GRAND PRIZE!

The rewards are publication in Children’s Writer,
cash prizes, winners’ certificates, and valuable
training in disciplined writing.

If you like writing for children and contests, read on . . .

We constantly hear from editors that the vast majority of the manuscripts they receive are rejected because they were not written to the editor’s specifications. Few editors will consider a story or article that does not meet their specs—precisely.

Writing contests also have exact specifications. That’s why we encourage writers—all writers, new ones and old pros too—to enter contests. They’re excellent professional training experiences and, if you win, they can get you published and pay healthy prize money.

The winners in this contest will be published in Children’s Writer, the monthly newsletter that goes to almost 1,300 children’s book and magazine editors in North America. Along with the winning piece, we’ll publish an article about it and the other top-ranked entries and their authors. There are also cash prizes. The cash prizes alone are a lot of good reasons to write a piece and enter.

Current Contest:
Kindergarten Story

A fictional story or nonfiction about family life or school for ages 5-6, up to 150 words. The story should be appropriate to five- and six-year-olds learning to read on their own. It should be fun, use vocabulary and syntax well, and have high interest for a kindergartener. Take great care not to write too high for this age. Know what a five- or six-year-old can and cannot read. Originality and the overall quality of writing will also be considered. Publishability is the ultimate criterion.

Entries must be received by February 28, 2011. Current subscribers to Children’s Writer enter free. All others pay an entry fee of $15, which includes an 8-month subscription. Winners will be announced in the July 2011 issue. Prizes: $500 for first place plus publication in Children’s Writer, $250 for second place, and $100 for third, fourth, and fifth places.

Now warm up your computer and write a $500-winning kindergarten story!

The contest rules are important. Please read them carefully.

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Be A Writer

2010-12-06T06:48:00.000-06:00

Do you find yourself caught in the midst of holiday chaos? Torn between shopping, wrapping, baking and preparing for meals? As a writer mom, it is always easy to feel the pull of what needs to be done around the house or for the family. The dishes piled in the sink, the laundry load that has fluffed four times before you decide to take the time to pull it out and fold it, meals to cook, the house to clean...the list goes on and on. The holidays,however, add a whole new level of items to the things-to-do list.

As I sat here this morning thinking about my day and how to balance writing with some of the household and Christmas items I need to accomplish as well today, I read Susan Shaughnessy's words in WALKING ON ALLIGATORS, and they put, very simply, into perspective how to start my day.

"Today, I am going to act like the writer I want to be. I will fend off all distractions. I will write."

So, for the morning, at least, I will write. The afternoon may be spent on all the other stuff that needs to get finished while the kids are at school, but, all too frequently, I let all that stuff eat up the whole day in an effort to get it done. One thing leads to the next which leads to the next and soon there is not a stitch of time left for writing. Not today...today, I will write.

How about you? Are you finding it difficult to fit it all in this holiday season? If so, I'd love to hear what is working for you in terms of time management.

Facing Rejection

2010-11-29T09:22:00.000-06:00

Debra B. Darvick provided the author interview for this week in my Bylines 2010 Writer's Desk Calendar. She talked of facing and overcoming rejection and not letting it stop her from writing and moving forward.

As writers, we all (or the great majority anyway) face rejection and must find the strength to continue on and not let it reign as the voice of negativity. I found Ms. Darvick's words quite inspiring this morning and wanted to share them with you as you start a new writing week.

"Whatever our stage as writers--taking those first tentative steps at submission or staking out territory in a new genre--we incur rejection. By facing it and moving on, we give those who follow the courage to join us on the road."

Happy writing!

Marbles

2010-11-22T08:19:00.000-06:00

This is a total digression, and I am not typically one for forwarding on emails received. However, this came to me this morning and really hit home. The final words struck me particularly, both in terms of what it means as a parent, wife and friend but also in terms of the words we writers "scatter" on a day to day basis in our articles, blogs and books. Happy reading...

I was at the corner grocery store buying some early potatoes. I noticed a small boy, delicate of bone and feature, ragged but clean, hungrily apprising a basket of freshly picked green peas.

I paid for my potatoes but was also drawn to the display of fresh green peas. I am a pushover for creamed peas and new potatoes.

Pondering the peas, I couldn't help overhearing the conversation between Mr. Miller (the store owner) and the ragged boy next to me.

'Hello Barry, how are you today?'

'H'lo, Mr. Miller. Fine, thank ya. Jus' admirin' them peas. They sure look good.'

'They are good, Barry. How's your Ma?'

'Fine. Gittin' stronger alla' time..'

'Good... Anything I can help you with?'

'No, Sir. Jus' admirin' them peas..'

'Would you like to take some home?' asked Mr. Miller.

'No, Sir. Got nuthin' to pay for 'em with.'

'Well, what have you to trade me for some of those peas?'

'All I got's my prize marble here.'

'Is that right? Let me see it' said Miller.

'Here 'tis. She's a dandy.'

'I can see that. Hmm mmm, only thing is this one is blue and I sort of go for red. Do you have a red one like this at home?' the store owner asked.

'Not zackley but almost.'

'Tell you what. Take this sack of peas home with you and next trip this way let me look at that red marble'. Mr. Miller told the boy.

'Sure will. Thanks Mr. Miller.'

Mrs. Miller, who had been standing nearby, came over to help me.

With a smile she said, 'There are two other boys like him in our community, all three are in very poor circumstances. Jim just loves to bargain with them for peas, apples, tomatoes, or whatever.

When they come back with their red marbles, and they always do, he decides he doesn't like red after all and he sends them home with a bag of produce for a green marble or an orange one, when they come on their next trip to the store.'

I left the store smiling to myself, impressed with this man. A short time later I moved to Colorado , but I never forgot the story of this man, the boys, and their bartering for marbles.

Several years went by, each more rapid than the previous one. Just recently I had occasion to visit some old friends in that Idaho community and while I was there learned that Mr. Miller had died. They were having his visitation that evening and knowing my friends wanted to go, I agreed to accompany them. Upon arrival at the mortuary we fell into line to meet the relatives of the deceased and to offer whatever words of comfort we could.

Ahead of us in line were three young men. One was in an army uniform and the other two wore nice haircuts, dark suits and white shirts...all very professional looking. They approached Mrs. Miller, standing composed and smiling by her husband's casket.

Each of the young men hugged her, kissed her on the cheek, spoke briefly with her and moved on to the casket. Her misty light blue eyes followed them as, one by one, each young man stopped briefly and placed his own warm hand over the cold pale hand in the casket. Each left the mortuary awkwardly, wiping his eyes.

Our turn came to meet Mrs. Miller. I told her who I was and reminded her of the story from those many years ago and what she had told me about her husband's bartering for marbles. With her eyes glistening, she took my hand and led me to the casket.

'Those three young men who just left were the boys I told you about.

They just told me how they appreciated the things Jim 'traded' them. Now, at last, when Jim could not change his mind about color or size.....they came to pay their debt.'

'We've never had a great deal of the wealth of this world,' she confided, 'but right now, Jim would consider himself the richest man in Idaho .'

With loving gentleness she lifted the lifeless fingers of her deceased husband. Resting underneath were three exquisitely shined red marbles.

The Moral :

We will not be remembered by our words, but by our kind deeds. Life is not measured by the breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath.

Today I wish you a day of ordinary miracles

~ A fresh pot of coffee you didn't make yourself.....

An unexpected phone call from an old friend ....

Green stoplights on your way to work...

The fastest line at the grocery store...

A good sing-along song on the radio...

Your keys found right where you left them.

Send this to the people you'll never forget. I just Did....

If you don't send it to anyone, it means you are in way too much of a hurry to even notice the ordinary miracles when they occur..

IT'S NOT WHAT YOU GATHER, BUT WHAT YOU SCATTER THAT TELLS WHAT KIND OF LIFE YOU HAVE LIVED!

Today, I wish you many blessings and a very HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

Dive In

2010-11-15T08:34:00.000-06:00

"Today, I'll take a deep breath and plunge into the calm lake of creative material within me."

What a promise to oneself and terrific way to begin a new writing week! These are the words I read this morning in WALKING ON ALLIGATORS. Susan Shaughnessy continues to inspire me on a daily basis with this book. In today's exerpt, she discusses the fact that "the only way to write is to dive in." The rest will come later, but we must not linger on the edge of inspiration, we must dive in--use the stories and ideas to plunge ahead and create.

Let me leave you with the words of Beverly Lowry who speaks to the heart of this:

"The material's out there, a calm lake waiting for us to dive in."

Let's take the plunge, shall we?

Inspiration

2010-11-08T14:09:00.000-06:00

For your reading pleasure...a list of quotes I've been keeping for some time and turn to in times of needed inspiration and motivation. I hope you find something here today that will enlighten and help your writing week!

*The way to gain a good reputation, is to endeavor to be what you desire to appear. - Socrates

*The fact is, that to do anything in the world worth doing, we must not stand back shivering and thinking of the cold and danger, but jump in and scramble through as well as we can.
Robert Cushing

*When one door of happiness closes, another opens, but often we look so long at the closed door that we do not see the one that has been opened for us.
Helen Keller

*Happiness does not consist in pastimes and amusements but in virtuous activities.
Aristotle

*Happiness resides not in posessions and not in gold; the feeling of happiness dwells in the soul.
Democritus

*People with many interests live, not only longest, but happiest.
George Matthew Allen

*In the hopes of reaching the moon men fail to see the flowers that blossom at their feet.
Albert Schweitzer

*Happiness is not achieved by the conscious pursuit of happiness; it is generally the by-product of other activities.
Aldous Huxley

*If you do not hope, you will not find what is beyond your hopes.
St. Clement of Alexandra

*We are all inventors, each sailing out on a voyage of discovery, guided each by a private chart, of which there is no duplicate. The world is all gates, all opportunities.
Ralph Waldo Emerson

*I have spread my dreams beneath your feet. Tread softly because you tread on my dreams.
W.B. Yeats

*Go confidently in the direction of your dreams. Live the life you have imagined.
Henry David Thoreau

*Every great dream begins with a dreamer. Always remember, you have within you the strength, the patience, and the passion to reach for the stars to change the world.
Harriet Tubman

*Reach high, for stars lie hidden in your soul. Dream deep, for every dream precedes the goal.
Pamela Vaull Starr

Changing Gears

2010-11-01T13:30:00.000-05:00

I wanted to share something with you today that I read this morning in WALKING ON ALLIGATORS. I seem to keep finding such inspiration in this book! In today's exerpt, Anne Tyler was discussing the partitions around her writing persona and ordinary life. It made me realize how important it is to recognize the separate, yet intertwined, lives we lead as writers. Focus and concentration are necessary in our writing but also necessary in our day-to-day lives in many ways.

The discussion in today's reading spoke about "the ability to change gears from ordinary life to writing" being "priceless to writers." How true this is...it is so much easier to focus on the daily chores and requirements demanding our attention after fulfilling our duties as a writer. The following words really brought this home for me...

"Today, I'll tune out my regular life and write for the period of time I have available. Then I'll tune in again."

I'm going to find a "switch" that allows me to move back and forth between these worlds to allow the greatest degree of concentration possible in any given arena. How do you make this work for you? I'd love to hear your strategies if you care to share.

Writing Time

2010-10-25T09:32:00.000-05:00

Today's passage in WALKING ON ALLIGATORS includes words from Margaret Atwood. She discusses the terror of a blank page inspiring her to write and how she had times of procrastinating and worrying until such time as the anxiety to write kicked in.

Reading the passage that followed Ms. Atwood's words, I was struck by the truth that one needs to write when he/she has time to write and to make that time to write if needed. The author of the book, Susan Shaughnessy, talked about how we shouldn't be so quick to envy full-time writers as it is often too easy to procrastinate and do other things rather than write. Whereas if one has only one specific hour a day to write, he/she is going to write during that time and not be hindered by the anxiety of not writing the rest of the day, therefore, increasing productivity. She suggests those few hours "may save you days of dithering." I chuckled heartily reading the word "dithering" as it so aptly describes me and how I approach many of my writing days. It is too easy to be pulled in the many other directions that call rather than to sit, butt in chair, and write. So...I will follow Ms. Shaughnessy's words and...

"Today, I'll accept the fact that there's no easy way to buckle down. I will write anyway."

MUSE Online Writers Conference

2010-10-20T14:16:00.000-05:00

Thank you, Lea Schizas!!! What an incredible opportunity you provide to all writers with this wonderful conference. I am very appreciative of having been able to take part in some of the conference this year and will be posting about different aspects in the days to come once I've had time to sort through all of my piles.

For those of you unfamiliar with the MUSE conference, I highly recommend learning more about it. While it is too late for this year's conference, there is always next year. The information gained, experiences shared, networking and "meetings" made possible by Lea were well worth the time invested. Check it out! http://themuseonlinewritersconference.com/

BIC

2010-10-11T08:00:00.000-05:00

In reading the author interview accompanying this week in my Bylines Writer's Desk Calendar, I was reminded again of very important advice: butt in chair! This is particularly important this week as I embark on my first ever MUSE Online Writers Conference.

In the interview, Diane Stark discusses how she uses her daily life events--field trips with kids, weight loss, marriage, divorce, etc.--as the basis of her writing. Ultimately, that is what we writers do--turn daily events into something others want to read. What helped me this morning was Diane's advice to...

"Live your life, paying attention to the story ideas around you. And then apply the seat of your pants to the seat of the chair and write." Great advice and reminder to start out a Monday and new writing week. Thank you, Diane!

Perfectionism

2010-10-04T14:36:00.000-05:00

Perfectionism is the bane of many a writer. Read Kelly L. Stone's wise words in LIVING WRITE: THE SECRET TO INVITING YOUR CRAFT INTO YOUR DAILY LIFE.

"If perfectionism is inhibiting your ability to write every day, list all the reasons why your writing has to be perfect. Then tear up the list, throw it away, and move to your work-in-progress."

Very sound advice, wouldn't you say? I think the physical act of tearing up the list will be very invigorating indeed. I'm going to give it a try. Care to join me?

Life

2010-09-27T08:00:00.000-05:00

Thought for the week...

"Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the number of moments that take our breath away." (Anonymous)

I just read this on a greeting card in a store recently. It struck me that, as authors, this is what we are all about--finding that right mix of words and emotion to create this feeling in our readers. There are a great many things in life which can take our breath away. I know, as a reader, I love this feeling with a really good book; one I just can't bear to put down. It is this feeling that created and nourished my desire to be a writer, to be able to give someone else the great pleasure I get from a really good book. It is what I strive for each and every day, and the goal I hope to one day achieve.

May you experience something today that takes your breath away! Have a wonderful writing week.

Daily Direction

2010-09-20T10:58:00.000-05:00

This morning, as I finally returned to reading LIVING WRITE by Kelly L. Stone, I came across some very sage advice. As a "daily direction," she says:

"When you wake up in the morning, say out loud, 'I feel like writing.' Keep saying it until you actually begin to feel like writing, and then go write!"

Aren't those wise words? For me, the trouble is not the lack of feeling like writing but, rather, in the carving out the time to do so. I believe I will post this mantra on my computer, however, to provide added motivation to do so, to just "go write!"

I hope these words can provide some benefit to all of you whether you experience an issue with the desire to write, finding the time to do so or any other daily obstacle that crosses your path.

Stories For Children Magazine

2010-09-15T14:48:00.000-05:00

Wonderful news! VS Grenier is re-opening Stories for Children Magazine! For those of you unfamiliar with it, SFC is a wonderful, online magazine for children which provided a terrific opportunity for writers, both new and experienced. According to a recent newsletter,they will be open for submissions at the end of September or first week of October 2010. They are currently updating the website; however, you can get updates at http://storiesforchildrenpublishing.com.

BIC

2010-09-10T13:12:00.000-05:00

A friend passed along a link for an interview with Jane Yolen, who needs no introduction! In answer to what it takes to write 300 books, Jane said, "BIC. Butt in chair. Every day."

How simple yet profound. How simple yet elusive. Jane has obviously mastered it well. I am still working toward it.

I encourage you to go read her interview. It is quite inspiring. Thank you, Jane, for sharing!

http://www.schoollibraryjournal.com/slj/newsletters/newsletterbucketextrahelping/886523-443/flying_high_with_jane_yolen.html.csp

Being a Writer

2010-08-30T10:03:00.000-05:00

I just purchased and started reading Kelly L. Stone's LIVING WRITE: THE SECRET TO INVITING YOUR CRAFT INTO YOUR DAILY LIFE. I was on the first page when I found myself inspired and reaching for my highlighter! I went back this morning to re-read what I've highlighted thus far and felt it pertinent to share. As I sit here thinking about a few things that need to get finished around the house and my much needed exercise which I haven't gotten around to yet, her words had particular impact.

"To be a writer, you simply have to write. Just as you don't agonize over when you will have time to shower in the morning because taking a daily shower is a habit, a writer doesn't agonize over how the one page will get written because it's a habit. It's a given. It's part of the daily schedule."

I'm very much looking forward to reading this book and gaining the help I need in making writing a daily habit. How do you do it? If you feel inspired, please leave a comment about what works for you.

Happy writing and habit forming!

Imagination

2010-08-23T12:25:00.000-05:00

Today, my kids went back to school leaving me with more time to dedicate to my writing. I am not starting work again until tomorrow and left today to get organized here at home and write. As I was reading my daily morning meditation in WALKING ON ALLIGATORS, I realized I need to always be open to what is happening around me and stop looking at my writing time as only a definitive period of time. I get so caught up in saying I will dedicate 8-2 to writing today and then attempt to flip that writer switch off and Mommy switch back on.

Today's meditation provided a quote from Norman Mailer:

"There's no clear boundary between experience and imagination. Who knows what glimpses of reality we pick up unconsciously, telepathically."

It finishes with a terrific thought...

"Today, I'll stir my imagination and experience together, and await the extra flash of insight that this mixture attracts."

Today, and always, I am going to stay open to those ideas, thoughts and memories floating around out there in my brain and environment regardless of whether they present during my "writer time" or my "mommy time" and see what comes of it.

Here's to a new school year and a newfound dedication to time well spent in the writing realm!

Historical Fiction Writing Contest

2010-08-19T19:38:00.000-05:00

I was just reading Jan Field's ICL Writers eNews. She mentioned a contest I wanted to pass along to all of you who write historical fiction. See below...

7. Historical Fiction Writing Contest
http://www.thechildrenswriter.com/ad028
Historical Fiction for Young Adults can win you cash!
First Place: $500
Second Place: $250
Third Place: $100
Create a story that is historical but relevant to contemporary readers, show your research with a bibliography.
Word Count: Up to $1500
Fee: Free for Children's Writer Newsletter (the print newsletter) subscribers. For everyone else, the fee is $15 which entitles you to an 8-month subscription to the Children's Writer at no extra cost.
Entry must be received by October 30, 2010

For those of you that do not subscribe to Children's Writer Newsletter, I highly recommend it. It is always full of great information. Thanks for the info, Jan!

"Happiness is a journey, not a destination"

2010-08-16T08:59:00.000-05:00

I seem to be in the mode of quoting things I read lately. Here is another I found particularly inspiring.

"For a long time it seemed to me that life was about to begin-real life. But there was always some obstacle in the way, something to be gotten through first, some unfinished business, time still to be served, a debt to be paid. At last it dawned on me that these obstacles were my life. This perspective has helped me to see there is no way to happiness. Happiness is the way. So treasure every moment you have and remember that time waits for no one." Souza

Isn't this great? There are always obstacles in the way of writing; life gets in the way of writing. But the journey through these obstacles that are life is what gives us the life experiences from which to create our writing. So, be happy; be productive; live life to the fullest and embrace those obstacles. Use them to your advantage!

Irish Blessing

2010-08-09T08:00:00.000-05:00

While this particular blessing is not specific to writing, I thought as I read it this morning that what it wishes for each of us sets the stage for serenity and peace which, in turn, allow us to create the writing we strive to produce. So, today and always, I wish for you...

May you always be blessed
with walls for the wind,
a roof for the rain,
a warm cup of tea by the fire,
laughter to cheer you,
those you love near you,
and all that your
heart might desire.

(Irish Blessing)

Happy life and writing to all of you!

Nurture Your Writing

2010-08-03T08:45:00.000-05:00

For those of you that have followed my summer posts about little time and a lot of activities, you know I've made a goal of spending at least 15 minutes a day writing. Well, lately, though I've spent my alloted 15 minutes on something, it has been rather unproductive. I seem to be shuffling my to-do piles around, organizing my work area, spending time at the library, trying to catch up on some reading and A LITTLE writing here and there--all in fits and spurts. One thing I try to start each day with is a meditation from Walking on Alligators. Today, I read a passage about pruning the things in life that "create a logjam in your time." I wanted to share the final meditation with you as it helped put in perspective for me how I am thinking about all of these things that must be done but which prevent me from doing what I need and want to do--write.

"Today, I'll discard my assumptions of what I 'have to keep up with.' I'll start taking careful note of which activities are compatible with productive writing for me."

The key word here, for me, is productive. It all goes back to that elusive balance we all try to find in life. Join me in pruning the weeds and creating the beautiful flowers of our writing gardens!

Using Your Strengths in Your Daily Life

2010-07-26T11:36:00.000-05:00

I have been reading a book I won in a give-away when BUMPLES first started. It is called PARENTING BY STRENGTHS: A PARENT'S GUIDE FOR CHALLENGING SITUATIONS. It interviews several people who speak about different aspects of parenting.

In one chapter, Cathy A. Rodrigues talks about communication being a foundation of better parenting. She discusses different prinicples to effective communication, one of which is "use your strengths in your daily life." She asks the question, "What would you say if your spouse asked you, 'What do you think you're really good at?'" She goes on to discuss "signature strengths" as those things one does, and is good at, without thinking (Seligman 2002).

As I was reading, I was thinking that it would be nice to think about and know what my own signature strenths are and how I could use them to my advantage in writing. She suggested completing a survey, the VALUES IN ACTION SIGNATURE STRENGTH SURVEY (VIA) online. It is a free assessment that "helps you identify your top five signature strenghts." She further suggests that knowing these strengths can give you insight into why certain tasks or parts of your life are easier to accomplish and more rewarding. I have not done so yet but plan to check out the survey and see what it says about me. If any of you out there have heard of the survey or have an opinion, good or bad, please weigh in and let me know what you think. Thank you, BUMPLES MAGAZINE, for the great book!

Path of Least Resistance

2010-07-19T11:27:00.000-05:00

In the Bylines calendar author's interview for the week, Laura Lee Carter spoke to me in a very profound way. Her words fit right in with all of my spouting of procrastination and lack of time. Perhaps, just perhaps, this is why I am so good at procrastinating?!! She says...

"It is far easier to keep to the path of least resistance, than to take a risk, stand up for yourself and make a difference. You don't need to analyze it to death. Just figure out what gives your life meaning and follow that path. Be courageous and live your dream."

Thank you, Ms. Carter, for the very wise words! I do analyze everything to death and frequently hesitate to take that risk and stand up for myself. Hence, the procrastination. It's hard to fail without an attempt--especially when half the people around just don't get it! But, writing is my dream and is what gives great meaning to my life. I will follow that path and be courageous. I hope you all do as well.

Wise Words

2010-07-12T08:55:00.000-05:00

I am not intending to be the voice of negativity this summer with all my posts about what I have not been accomplishing, but I recently saw this quote by Aesop and thought it very fitting--for my summer, at least.

"After all is said and done, more is said than done."

Very true, very true! I spend lots of time talking about what I need or want to do but just never seem to get very much accomplished. Granted, my summer is hectic with softball, baseball, tennis, etc., but so is everyone's. I've posted before about committing 15 minutes a day. Some days I've done well; others, not so much. So when I saw the above quote, it really put things in perspective for me. I'm going to TRY to stop saying what I need/want to do and JUST DO IT! Just as soon as we finish with a softball game, a dental appointment and packing for an upcoming vacation...See what I mean--I am the queen of procrastination:-)

If you have any wise words about this delicate balance, I'd love to hear how you make it work for you.

Train Hard

2010-07-05T10:00:00.000-05:00

In my post last Monday, I spoke about training like athletes to improve our stamina as writers. As I was reading a Shape magazine this morning, while working out coincidentally, I saw this quote and thought it relevant to pass on. It also speaks to the importance of training in the exercise sense; however, I believe it also relates to writing.

"How you train is how you tackle life. Don't avoid discomfort; deal with it head-on to get stronger. Learn how to work out with passion and that fire will carry over into everything you do."

It is true that the discomfort we face as writers as we probe our inner thoughts and ideas to spin a story can cause discomfort, but we are all the better for it after meeting it head-on. I do also believe the passion and fire one puts into working out can fuel his/her writing as well--clears the head and improves everything--body, mind and spirit.

So, I guess I am advocating training like an athlete both in terms of stamina as a writer as well as in exercise to support and improve our writing life. Care to join me in this quest?

Independence Day

2010-07-04T09:00:00.000-05:00

Happy 4th of July! Wishing you all a wonderful day as we celebrate our great nation's independence.

Stamina

2010-06-28T10:21:00.000-05:00

In the daily meditation passage I read today in WALING ON ALLIGATORS: A BOOK OF MEDITATIONS FOR WRITERS, Susan Shaughnessy suggests that "stamina is the difference between writers and dabblers." She discusses how athletes and musicians have innate gifts but require stamina to be successful. She makes such a valid point in suggesting that "the need for work and stamina is accepted in almost every pursuit except writing." We, as writers, must take our innate talents, couple them with good, old fashioned effort and stamina to be a "real writer" if that is the path that we chose--or for many of us (I know for myself), the path that chooses us. Shaughnessy closes with these words..."I will accept the need to write steadily, even through difficult stretches. I am in training for the work I want to do."

Let's train like athletes, practice like musicians and produce the words the world wants to read.

Bylines Inspiration

2010-06-22T22:47:00.000-05:00

Do you own the Bylines 2010 Writer's Desk Calendar? I do and really love reading the messages from authors as I turn a new page each week. This week, I found particular inspiration from Jane Wenham-Jones. If you've not seen this calendar, it is a weekly planner for writers. As one turns each page, the left page is an author interview; the right, the weekly calendar. This week, the featured author was Jane Wenham-Jones. She spoke about writing when there seems to be no time. The words that really hit me were the following:

"I say if you wait until you've got the time to write, you never will have. However busy you are with kids, jobs and families, if you really want to do it, you just have to write anyway."

So true, so true. An author at a recent writer's conference I attended spoke of the same. Don't wait for the big blocks of time. They just don't happen. Writers write. We just need to do it. Now!

So, now, today, tomorrow and each day forward, let us all commit to want to do it and to do it. Each and every day. Even if it is only 15 minutes at a crack!

If you want to learn more about Jane Wenham-Jones, go to www.janewenham-jones.com. To learn more about or purchase a Bylines Writer's Desk Calendar, go to www.bylinescalendar.com.

Muse Online Conference

2010-06-16T11:45:00.001-05:00

For the first time this year, I've registered for the Muse Online Writers Conference this October. I'm told it is highly beneficial and enlightening and am very much looking forward to participating. I just received an email stating the registration deadline is August 15th and thought I'd pass that information along to you in case you are interested and have not yet registered. After August 16 until September, there will be a $5 late registration fee. Here is the registration link if you are interested:

http://www.themuseonlinewritersconference.com/Registrations.html

Join me in this year's conference. I don't think you'll regret it.

Persistence

2010-06-10T16:36:00.000-05:00

I read a great quote a day or so ago in Trent Steele's Smart Writers Newsletter (go to www.writestreet.com for more information).

The quote read..."Life is 10 percent what you make it, and 90 percent how you take it." Irving Berlin

As many of you who read my blog know, I have been frustrated with the direction I've been taking my writing life, or lack thereof as it is, in recent weeks. Reading this quote spurred an a-ha moment for me. I get so caught up in the whole of my to-do list that I have difficulty chipping away as I have time. It is kind of that all-or-nothing mentality I get when there is a large bag of M&Ms staring me in the face! If I can't have/do it all, I don't want to have/do any. Not such a good way to go about things--writing or chocolate, for that matter:-) So, as I've just committed to my dear friend and critique partner, Donna, I've resolved to commit 15 minutes a day to writing. In the chaos that reigns supreme in the summer, I feel that is very doable and will, hopefully, lead to more a day. But, if I can achieve that first 15, I'll feel I've at least accomplished something and be in a better frame of mind for the remainder of the day.

So, for me, the what (10%) I make of my writing life and the how (90%) I take it will combine to form a whopping 100+% productive and positive writing life. After all, persistence pays! How about you...any thoughts on the above quote and how it applies to you? I'd love to hear your feedback.

Courage

2010-06-01T08:00:00.000-05:00

I am finishing the book WALKING ON ALLIGATORS: A BOOK OF MEDITATIONS FOR WRITERS and saw this quote this morning...

"One of the marks of a gift is to have the courage of it." Katherine Anne Porter

The accompanying meditation talks of making "excuses for deferring the exercise of our talents" and how life, education and family duties can multiply and pull us away from our work. We cannot let it. "There is no other way to write...start now...each day...your gift will grow in proportion as you exercise it...your courage will grow in proportion as you feed it."

Here are the final words to the meditation. I am repeating them to myself over and over today and encourage you to do the same.

"Today, I will write. I will put writing first. I will begin a habit, and watch my courage grow."

Off you go...good luck and happy writing!

Distractions

2010-05-25T08:41:00.000-05:00

I've spoken before of Suzanne Lieurance and The Morning Nudge. Her daily words to inspire and motivate are a constant source of wisdom and guidance, and I strongly encourage you all to subscribe.

In today's Morning Nudge, she talks of distractions and working through them. Given the extent of all the distractions around me currently as we wrap up the school year and move into the chaos of summer, I found it particularly helpful. But the other thing she talked of this morning is something I believe many of us battle at times. It is the notion that family and friends "often just don't get it when it comes to your writing." Very well said, Suzanne! She goes on to say...

"They just don't understand how serious you are--or want to be--about your work." She talks about not letting them "pull you away from your writing" and being "nice, but firm, when it comes to family and friends" so as not to be pulled away from your writing. I think it is probably difficult to "get it" if you are not a writer and trying to make it as a writer; however, I know, for me, it can be frustrating and defeating to deal with that kind of attitude from others. How do you deal with it in your writing life?

FOCUS

2010-05-10T08:29:00.000-05:00

As I sat here contemplating the state of my day and where to begin, I saw something I printed out last week and highlighted. I was feeling sorry for myself as there is so much I need to do around the house that is going to eat into my writing time today, but I can't seem to get focused enough to tackle any writing projects without first tackling the chaos around me. The dust bunnies are out of control and multiplying like guppies; sheets need to be washed; piles of laundry have accumulated from a weekend softball tournament; bags need to be unpacked from the same--you get the idea! I pulled out my pile of writing projects to work on and saw one of the motivational pieces from last week that I received as part of Suzanne Lieurance's The Morning Nudge Club titled "It's All About Focus." What I have highlighted is this..."There will ALWAYS be something that eats up your writing time if you let it." So true, so true! Unfortunately, I can't seem to find a way today to get focused on my writing without first attempting to get some organization in the chaos around me. I am going to succumb to that need in hopes of having more time to get focused on my writing the rest of the week. This is a delicate balance for writers when "work" is in the home. Some days I seem better able to put my blinders on so to speak and ignore the things that need to be done around me. Some days, I can't. I guess this is one of those. How do you manage the balance?

Writing for Children

2010-05-03T12:56:00.000-05:00

I am currently reading Barbara Seuling's HOW TO WRITE A CHILDREN'S BOOK AND GET IT PUBLISHED which has been a great help in the writing process of my most recent WIP (a PB for young children).

It seems I am confronted every day, in one way or another, by someone who does not understand nor take the time to try to understand the process or desire to write for children. As I was flipping through the book this morning to see how much I've read and where I need to pick up now, I saw a quote from the beginning of the book I had highlighted. It reads as follows:

"You have to write whatever it is that wants to be written. And then, if it's going to be too difficult for grown-ups, you write it for children." Madeleine L' Engle

These wise words are very inspiring to me and give me hope that what we all, as children's authors, work so hard to do each and every day is not for naught. So, for any of you out there facing frustration from those not understanding your burning desire to write for children or thinking it is a piece of cake to do, take heart--we are not alone in our desire to do so and know full well the struggle, time and effort it takes to get each word just right! I, for one, celebrate you for your efforts. Keep it up!

Spring SCBWI Conference Continued

2010-04-26T14:06:00.000-05:00

As promised, I'm back to discuss the remaining presenters at the recent Spring SCBWI Dakotas Conference.

First up, Chris Richman, an agent with Upstart Crow Literary. Chris is actively building his list and is interested in MG and YA fiction with strong commercial hooks, standout voices and plots that grab him and refuse to let go. Chris enjoys working with debut writers and, per his report, loves "dark fantasy" so go for it if any of you out there have something for him. You can find submission guidelines on the Upstart Crow Literary website at http://upstartcrowliterary.com/. Chris' presentation discussed pitching your novel, and he really promoted making your query work for your project and targeting the right people. He said that although a pitch is important, strong writing is a must..."You have to stand out--that's the bottom line."

Lindsay Schlegel, an editor with Simon and Schuster who works with the Atheneum Books for Young Readers and Margaret K. McElderry Books Imprints, spoke about PBs: From Submission to Storytime. She stressed that "story trumps everything." Her presentation was very helpful, especially in terms of what to think about in the picture book process, namely rhyme and repetition, page turn and thinking visually. Unfortunately, Simon and Schuster Imprints are closed to unagented submissions with the exception of conference attendees (we get one unagented submission in the next six months--yippee!).

Chris Browne, illustrator and cartoonist of the syndicated comic strip Hagar the Horrible, and Chris Rylander, author of the MG novel THE FOURTH STALL scheduled for early 2011 release from HarperCollins, completed the panel.

While Chris Browne did not give a specific presentation, he was on the panel for the Question and Answer session as well as conducting informal critiques of art portfolios. I had the privilege of sitting at a table with Chris and thoroughly enjoyed his company and tales of his life and ancestors. He grew up in CT and lived for 28 years in FL. For the last three years, he and his wife have lived in SD about an hour from where I live. He is extremely funny and wonderfully talented, and I encourage you all to read Hagar the Horrible if you don't already.

Chris Rylander is the new Regional Advisor for the SCBWI Dakotas and organized a wonderful conference as you have read. Thank you, Chris; my hat is off to you for a job well done!

SCBWI Dakotas Spring Conference

2010-04-19T10:34:00.000-05:00

As I said in a recent post, I just attended the fourth annual Spring SCBWI Dakotas Writers and Illustrators Conference. The presenters/faculty were as follows: Chris Richman, Agent with Upstart Crow Literary; Lindsay Schlegel, Editor with Simon and Schuster; Chris Browne, Illustrator and cartoonist of Hagar the Horrible; Rebecca Johnson, Author; and Chris Rylander, Author and Regional Advisor for the SCBWI Dakotas. All of the presenters shared great insight and useful information, and I wanted to take this opportunity to share some of the tidbits I gleaned from these awesome presentations.

First off was Rebecca Johnson. She amazed me! Rebecca is an award-winning author of more than 75 books for young children, young adults and adults on diverse scientific subjects, most recently about the new organisms discovered during the Census of Marine Life, a 10-year global survey of ocean life.

Rebecca's research has taken her to far-flung parts of the world--into the heart of Antarctica, for example, and to New Zealand to study one of the world's most rare birds, the Kakapu.

Rebecca's involvement in the Census of Marine Life led to her newest book to be released in May 2010, Journey Into the Deep. Make yourself a note to get your copy at Amazon or Lerner if you are a science lover, or even if you're not. The marine life discovered for the first time ever are incredible. Rebecca shared a sneak peak of the photos used in the book at the conference. They are truly incredible! Words cannot even describe how cool are the Barrel-Eyed Fish with it's transparent head and huge, green eyes that rotate; the Ping Pong Ball Sponge and the Swimming Sea Cucumber. This is truly a book not to miss. Rebecca had just learned the day prior to the conference that Journey Into the Deep is a Junior Library Guild Selection. Much congrats to you, Rebecca. This honor is greatly deserved!

From a technical/professional writer standpoint, Rebecca shared so many words of wisdom, most notable to me was, "write what you love...write what you know." This is so true. If we aren't excited about our writing, how are we to encite excitement in the reader and a desire to pick up and read our work?

In a separate breakout session, Rebecca discussed finding time to write and using it. She suggested we figure out what we are spending our time on and cut back on, or eliminate, time zappers. I found this profound--"Perfection is the enemy of good." Perfection is my nemesis!

Rebecca also suggested we find our "zone," or time we are most able to write, and do nothing but write when in the zone. One other tidbit I found inspiring was, "Stop waiting for the BIG CHUNKS of time--they're not going to come." I am so guilty of this and need to learn to set small goals that are accomplishable and stop throwing in the towel on the days when the "big chunk" of time doesn't appear.

Per Rebecca, if you choose the writing life, "write daily...commit....choose it whole-heartedly...decide now to be one of those writers." What profound yet simple words!

I think that is enough for today. I thank you for letting me ramble on but know there are many of you out there that can benefit from Rebecca's sage advice. I know I am better for it!

I'll blog about the remaining presenters in my next post. I hope you enjoyed reading about Rebecca's presentation. She is truly inspiring both as a person and an author.

SCBWI Dakotas

2010-04-12T12:14:00.000-05:00

This past weekend, I attended the regional SCBWI Dakotas Writers and Illustrators Conference in Sioux Falls, SD. The presenters were amazing with much information gained by all. The networking opportunities with publishing professionals were wonderful as well. Members of the faculty included Chris Richman, Agent with Upstart Crow Literary; Lindsay Schlegel, Editor with Simon and Schuster; Chris Browne, Illustrator and cartoonist of the syndicated comic strip Hagar the Horrible; Rebecca Johnson, Author; Chris Rylander, Author and Regional Advisor for the SCBWI Dakotas. Stay tuned for more to come about these wonderful presenters and the insightful information and tips shared by them.

Believe

2010-04-05T16:11:00.000-05:00

"Whether you believe you can do a thing or not, you are right." Henry Rod

I read this today in Walking on Alligators: A Book of Meditations for Writers by Susan Shaughnessy. It reminded me of something my aunt used to tell me--think you can, think you can't; either way, you're right. It is so true. The power of belief is a strong and daunting force in what one will or will not accomplish on any given day. I know it is for me. If I believe I am going to have a productive day, I am much more likely to accomplish what I set out to accomplish. If I believe I am going to have a fairly unproductive day, that belief typically holds true as well.

How about you? What do you believe you can acomplish today?

Thinking Traps

2010-03-29T10:00:00.000-05:00

Do you receive The Morning Nudge from Suzanne Lieurance? If not, you really ought to give careful consideration to doing so. I've been receiving my "daily nudge" for a few weeks now and have found it of great benefit. In a recent message, Suzanne talked about "thinking new thoughts." She said,

"Replace old, worn-out thoughts that are keeping you in the same spot each day with new, more productive thoughts--thoughts that will help you move ahead to get what you WANT to have in life, instead of staying right where you are."

These words were such a lightbulb for me. Sometimes what we know is not always so clear until someone puts it into words so prolifically. Suzanne offers guidance, support and help to writers of all caliber. Check out her website and get your "morning nudge!"

You can find her at:

You will be glad you did--I know I am!

The Best Laid Plans

2010-03-22T17:39:00.001-05:00

Today, I woke and started the day with such enthusiasm. I had my to-do list very well in order and knew exactly what I was going to tackle first, next, and so on. Then...kaboom! The day went to hell in a hand basket.

My humidifer had a problem and had caused water in the basement on the weekend, so I had to suck up water, call the repairman and deal with him this morning. In the midst of this process, I got the first call from the school about a sick kid needing to be picked up. I got her home and organized for a nap and then had to tackle the nasty sewer smell in our house--which I started to strongly feel was contributing to the sick kids as, by this time, I had gotten a second call to pick up another of my kids in the office not feeling well. Between sick kids, the repairman, the plumber and being on the phone for hours attempting to set up a new satellite receiver (our old one crashed to the floor last week when we were preparing our house to be painted), my writing day was shot--over and over and over again!

It took a while but, per the advice of a dear friend (thank you, Donna!), I tried to stop feeling sorry for myself and just go with the interruptions. I'm hoping for much better things to come tomorrow. What do you do when life gets in your way? I'd love to hear how you re-coup.

Happy St. Patrick's Day

2010-03-17T13:33:00.000-05:00

Happy St. Patrick's Day everyone! Hope you get to enjoy all things Irish.

Creating Characters

2010-03-15T14:26:00.000-05:00

Jan Field's KidMagWriters.com is always filled with an abundance of great information. I found the following today as I was reading:

Technique

Storytellers: Character Creation
By Jan Fields

Most stories for young people have one main character, the protagonist. Longer forms, such as novels, can handle two main characters and sometime when an author is attempting to capture an old-fashioned voice (in a novel), you’ll even find the story jumps from head to head of many characters. However, it takes room to make those things work and magazines stories are short and tight – which is why you see single main characters in almost all magazine stories.

Jan's article is filled with great suggestions on creating characters depending on age level. To read the rest of this article or explore KidMagWriters.com, go to http://www.kidmagwriters.com/technique.htm

Get Acquainted With Your Subconscious

2010-03-08T09:10:00.000-06:00

A few weeks ago, I spoke of the odd moments of feelings or thoughts that would pop into my mind every now and again. These subconscious flashes of something have gone on for years with me. It took a very long time to consider them as something positive to cultivate into a story.

In the February 2010 issue of Writer's Digest, Kelly L. Stone, author and mental health counselor, talks of "waking up that subconscious." In an interview in this issue, she discusses the power of the subconscious when it comes to writing and says, "Learning to access your subconscious greatly enhances your creativity because whereas the conscious mind is limited and can attend to only one thing at a time, the subconcious mind operates independently from your conscious mind's field of attention."

I'm going to do my best to allow my subconscious free reign and see where it takes me--hopefully to a major case of writer's cramp because the words are flowing freely! I believe a good start will be to read Kelly L. Stone's book, Thinking Write: The Secret to Freeing Your Creative Mind.

How about you? As the article states, "...Can the unknown corridors of your mind be hidden pathways to creativity?"