tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4026267458636799582024-02-06T21:21:34.285-08:00Reading, Writing and Reaching for ChocolateJune Smallshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00344423860787737601noreply@blogger.comBlogger56125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-402626745863679958.post-51691194086263415352021-10-01T15:41:00.004-07:002021-10-01T15:51:44.417-07:00#FallWritingFrenzy 2021 <p> This year's Fall Writing Frenzy, a writing challenge/competition based on photo prompts, inspired something that is different than my usual work. The challenge is to come in at 200 words or less inspired by one of the photos provided at Lydia Lukidis's site <a href="https://lydialukidis.wordpress.com/fallwritingfrenzy-2021-rules/" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p><p><br /></p><p>I was inspired by the 13th photo. Seems appropriate for a Halloween theme, right? Just imagine walking those halls. It would be easy to get lost. Imagine being a teen, full of anxiety, afraid of this new place or embarrassment, or a million other hard knocks from life, but desperate to join in the carefree Halloween celebrations. </p><p><br /></p><p>Without further ado:</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZjc17e_e-l5GsZbcVGo_SrvMINPnJGdMEpn-Tbn9b32rnYGluOAhHZSm8I-4wL7QP4f25A_lZP1KWCA07NbAj-cM_gy9mlAlQY9h2yoBmf7Ugg9jWHj-daA-_IzbgwNoKTAIrCjc-a4sJ/s1024/halloween-ehud-neuhaus-unsplash.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="659" data-original-width="1024" height="258" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZjc17e_e-l5GsZbcVGo_SrvMINPnJGdMEpn-Tbn9b32rnYGluOAhHZSm8I-4wL7QP4f25A_lZP1KWCA07NbAj-cM_gy9mlAlQY9h2yoBmf7Ugg9jWHj-daA-_IzbgwNoKTAIrCjc-a4sJ/w400-h258/halloween-ehud-neuhaus-unsplash.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal">The Ghost<o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal">Everyone says the house is haunted. <o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal">Old, eerie, dark, and complex.<o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal">But the only ghost here is me.<o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal">Drifting from room to room.<o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal">Hiding from my old life.<o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal">The fears, the demons.<o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal">Not dead, but not living.<o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal">Afraid to live. <o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal">Until tonight. <o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal">Tonight will be the night I breakthrough.<o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal">Join the living dressed as the dead.<o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal">Costumes and paint can hide what is truly scary.<o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal">Can hide me from the prying eyes that judge my scars.<o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal">A candy given.<o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal">A sweet smile.<o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal">Maybe tonight is the last night I live as a ghost.<o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal">And finally live.<o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p>
</p><p class="MsoNormal">Happy Halloween.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvMRZCa4tIAcWWiuBhX-enzSM-7cFebUVlProhdGxmLGtksPe6EV6gAUAHoMjkpJtCYUgrd5RG4XOC02U3cZa934A-y5hPzc4LQoH_bUE9m2R4sWxyJe_oyheYHO6zD7HCn7dKffFXX8nV/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="200" data-original-width="200" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvMRZCa4tIAcWWiuBhX-enzSM-7cFebUVlProhdGxmLGtksPe6EV6gAUAHoMjkpJtCYUgrd5RG4XOC02U3cZa934A-y5hPzc4LQoH_bUE9m2R4sWxyJe_oyheYHO6zD7HCn7dKffFXX8nV/" width="240" /></a></div><br /><br /><o:p></o:p><p></p><p><br /></p>June Smallshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00344423860787737601noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-402626745863679958.post-53873811743671521722020-09-05T15:26:00.003-07:002020-09-06T05:37:06.549-07:00This Author Loves That! : Marketing a Picture Book<p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrtv0Ml7ysGuHHM-uL3e7SAFwlzUDX6dW-tUMeJ0qxu7MqNicpPZk75BIrk7RXK9VOh7NCyjHR0-gxOQUAgKcgYcyUTvIeKyAVwQgbX0_B5HV6hB2IVBezdNWiDlRQ_qMS4XFv8qlg1Mim/s2048/20200905_124351+%25282%2529.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1978" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrtv0Ml7ysGuHHM-uL3e7SAFwlzUDX6dW-tUMeJ0qxu7MqNicpPZk75BIrk7RXK9VOh7NCyjHR0-gxOQUAgKcgYcyUTvIeKyAVwQgbX0_B5HV6hB2IVBezdNWiDlRQ_qMS4XFv8qlg1Mim/s320/20200905_124351+%25282%2529.jpg" width="320" /></a><br /> When I first started thinking of writing as a profession, I was unaware how many hats we have to wear. We write, sure. But then we edit, critique, cheerlead, market, sell, teach, and more I can't even think of now.</p><p><br /></p><p>With my latest picture book, This Cat Loves That! : A Cat Book for Kids, I stepped out of my comfort zone and rhymed and had to work my text around photos rather than having illustrations work around my text. </p><p>This book is geared for preschoolers and young readers. It is full of sight words and cute cats. The best part; when thinking of how to market this book I thought of cats of course!</p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6IlQJhoPKovqJlXJbodgT4xpZqaP3rajwqSIkjkh-2zEnamVSuWNh6F4nDuJdF3b4gyI6it92EF1Ebxx3vlJpIak_fZbe7-P58aXiwghtprV2KWVJzfKJLzDiP4tlcJObAkTcqvETXzhB/s2048/20200905_130101%25281%2529.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1591" data-original-width="2048" height="159" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6IlQJhoPKovqJlXJbodgT4xpZqaP3rajwqSIkjkh-2zEnamVSuWNh6F4nDuJdF3b4gyI6it92EF1Ebxx3vlJpIak_fZbe7-P58aXiwghtprV2KWVJzfKJLzDiP4tlcJObAkTcqvETXzhB/w205-h159/20200905_130101%25281%2529.jpg" width="205" /></a></p><p><br />A fun photo shoot with a local shelter gave me tons of laughs as this little tabby with the cute boots loved riding on my shoulders (I should have gotten a photo of that!) and my shoelaces were attacked frequently by a speedy grey. An older black cat happily followed the kittens and looked for chin scratches as I shot a laser pointer at my book repeatedly.</p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlT-62aFhsocZImSa24aB9l7fSAKU6-bupPnYVhl6kBVgDzNBg7DA-O8tstPmWP2XeA_qRW4oN54teino3YHzOQPkAOIUZCMH3SlP6gdmjwTkacpgqhKtSY9fcOibpSov01g378EylC1ir/s2048/20200905_130301.jpg" style="clear: right; display: inline; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlT-62aFhsocZImSa24aB9l7fSAKU6-bupPnYVhl6kBVgDzNBg7DA-O8tstPmWP2XeA_qRW4oN54teino3YHzOQPkAOIUZCMH3SlP6gdmjwTkacpgqhKtSY9fcOibpSov01g378EylC1ir/s320/20200905_130301.jpg" /></a>The great part is cats are curious. All I had to do was set the book down and they all came to sniff, bat, and bite this new toy.</p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu9fU8ZWAkoZhq_Mq5i5Djqf2xHZ3AmZF4n5B2Ihn5gNLbMIXoqQu5fNigXBVlH8l6TQuEZFpWi6fZ_0hM-CRnQsL4p4LuLbsFddCArhZ_rlpnm70GAjOu6GeYWV7Sq02WwvGz3jnXKf1m/s2048/20200905_123603+%25282%2529.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1820" data-original-width="2048" height="227" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu9fU8ZWAkoZhq_Mq5i5Djqf2xHZ3AmZF4n5B2Ihn5gNLbMIXoqQu5fNigXBVlH8l6TQuEZFpWi6fZ_0hM-CRnQsL4p4LuLbsFddCArhZ_rlpnm70GAjOu6GeYWV7Sq02WwvGz3jnXKf1m/w256-h227/20200905_123603+%25282%2529.jpg" width="256" /></a><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">There were so many sweet and affectionate cats it was hard not to bring one home. Though I don't think my cranky old tuxedo cat would have appreciated it very much. At nearly twenty we let him rule the roost.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU70DVQET4K8JJkeu-lqqZ-x-vLqeF4milUbbHbyV-nX-zzrpvrJJx5YLyXKw0kWp80DWfXAOU5GO-WhnIlQxmNak-fz-gOHMRsT90JSvskAt97cwC1djkgoaFGuQLqQu4IulyH6htPQwz/s2048/20200905_125153.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="256" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU70DVQET4K8JJkeu-lqqZ-x-vLqeF4milUbbHbyV-nX-zzrpvrJJx5YLyXKw0kWp80DWfXAOU5GO-WhnIlQxmNak-fz-gOHMRsT90JSvskAt97cwC1djkgoaFGuQLqQu4IulyH6htPQwz/w192-h256/20200905_125153.jpg" width="192" /></a><img border="0" data-original-height="1996" data-original-width="2048" height="250" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOopT7RfbZF9S3Dvz8AjI6VyqmlfMuTF2xn4gOkwuFDSqQb5qpmgtZcqOfGW1qSzQc5Yq0OsO-6o_SSQroYYe8BYRZutwF4YOWP2pVSN7OiWYSEz7tBRIRSSNVIqyIC1ov97DllmW_-cf8/w256-h250/20200905_130528+%25282%2529.jpg" style="text-align: left;" width="256" /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">If you are a writer or illustrator, teacher or librarian, it is great fun to find the subjects of your books in real life if you are able. They really bring the books to life, especially for the readers who are more visual learners. You may realize that you love marketing and photography too.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitDDvlm6724GQ7YeQvJQGnpMLcciSwwf11LbHqSWmFmwyPWge4qjNXkwwWAHMswB-K1b2cuu2_EhLEZlUVmy3Ztls3lBfNl63P0HNfxx2XOX3VQBnRATe4aRERef_5M_YGWJRyncfb5GLN/s2048/20200905_124345.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitDDvlm6724GQ7YeQvJQGnpMLcciSwwf11LbHqSWmFmwyPWge4qjNXkwwWAHMswB-K1b2cuu2_EhLEZlUVmy3Ztls3lBfNl63P0HNfxx2XOX3VQBnRATe4aRERef_5M_YGWJRyncfb5GLN/s320/20200905_124345.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">So enjoy these cute kittens and if you are interested in this fun cat book <a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/1647398398" target="_blank">click here</a>. If you are thinking about a way to help out your community and local animals, please check out your local shelter, SPCA, or rescue groups. A simple donation of trash bags, cat litter, cleaning products, toys made by the kids, and food are a small way you can make a big difference. Who knows, you may even find a furry new family member.</div><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/1647398398" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK5TJ9a9-R6jUwXW2KYqCsa3RgQW7Hr5Gh8NMRFoNIVhkrc6MhLi6msgWdqpA_z5_-Lw0gQgZxIE6iKa2Ma2f0tqZ8TNjqbhV4PnpiHbDDGcQn0XM_C4ben_TnfsDRgn1XDOKiGMtQ_MCv/s320/ThisCatLovesThat_preorder.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "amazon ember", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px 0px 14px; padding: 0px;"><strong>Put cute cats to the test and find out what they love best!―an early-learning book for toddlers and preschoolers</strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "amazon ember", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: -4px 0px 14px; padding: 0px;">If you’ve been looking for cat books for kids, you’ll love <em>This Cat Loves That!</em>, a fun rhyming story filled with tons of cute and colorful cat photos that will help your little one learn about their feline friends. Your child will delight in discovering what cats love, as well as some stuff they don’t. Of all the cat books for kids, this one is the purr-fect introduction to one of their favorite animals!</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "amazon ember", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: -4px 0px 14px; padding: 0px;">This standout among cat books for kids includes:</p><ul style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "amazon ember", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px 0px 18px 20px; padding: 0px;"><li style="margin: 0px 0px 0px 20px; overflow-wrap: break-word;"><strong>Photos of different cat breeds and ages</strong></li><li style="margin: 0px 0px 0px 20px; overflow-wrap: break-word;"><strong>A narrative designed to engage toddlers and pre-K kids</strong></li><li style="margin: 0px 0px 0px 20px; overflow-wrap: break-word;"><strong>Basic fun facts about cats</strong></li></ul><p style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "amazon ember", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px 0px 14px; padding: 0px;"></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "amazon ember", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: -4px 0px 0px; padding: 0px;">When it comes to cat books for kids, this one is the cat’s pajamas!</p></div><br /><p></p>June Smallshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00344423860787737601noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-402626745863679958.post-65193477466738511122020-04-01T10:30:00.000-07:002020-05-26T09:35:59.019-07:00She Leads: The Elephant Matriarch - Now Available<div>
<span style="color: #010101; font-family: "muli" , "helvetica neue" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 15px; letter-spacing: 0.5px;"><br /></span></span></div>
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #010101; font-family: "muli" , "helvetica neue" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 15px; letter-spacing: 0.5px;">My latest picture book, She Leads: The Elephant Matriarch, is now available for sale!</span></span></h3>
<div>
<span style="color: #010101; font-family: "muli" , "helvetica neue" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 15px; letter-spacing: 0.5px;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #010101; font-family: "muli" , "helvetica neue" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 15px; letter-spacing: 0.5px; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #010101; font-family: "muli" , "helvetica neue" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://www.indiebound.org/book/9781641702324" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1000" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhr-7Nx1utzfXPPI_4MHr6u0H6_UqFE8YeS-kcR2T7w0EGAHW8EaisyAJE19yoBgC5kzyjHGyVRWIjullwhm1aVtQL-nIYeFb1ng2vxjOuks6AEYbWlSFPRaoqsl57q_97_CRrMA2dL_obY/s320/She+Leads+Cover.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div>
<span style="color: #010101; font-family: "muli" , "helvetica neue" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<div style="font-size: 15px; letter-spacing: 0.5px;">
<span style="color: #010101; font-family: "muli" , "helvetica neue" , sans-serif;"><i>She is the Queen. The matriarch.</i></span></div>
<span style="color: #010101; font-family: "muli" , "helvetica neue" , sans-serif;">
<div style="font-size: 15px; letter-spacing: 0.5px;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="font-size: 15px; letter-spacing: 0.5px;">
<i>She leads her daughters and their daughters.</i></div>
<div style="font-size: 15px; letter-spacing: 0.5px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-size: 15px; letter-spacing: 0.5px;">
Inspiring text and striking illustrations follow the empowering journey of an elephant matriarch as she leads her family through the wilds of Africa. With facts about African elephants on every spread and a message that will encourage young girls to be the trailblazers of their generation, She Leads offers an incredible story and an unforgettable tribute to the strength of a true leader.</div>
<div style="font-size: 15px; letter-spacing: 0.5px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-size: 15px; letter-spacing: 0.5px;">
<i>Open your eyes, princess. One day you will lead.</i></div>
<div style="font-size: 15px; letter-spacing: 0.5px;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="font-size: 15px; letter-spacing: 0.5px;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<h3 style="font-size: 15px; letter-spacing: 0.5px;">
So why should you buy this book?</h3>
<div>
<ul style="font-size: 15px; letter-spacing: 0.5px;">
<li><span style="color: #010101; font-family: "muli" , "helvetica neue" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 15px; letter-spacing: 0.5px;"><div>
A short, lyrical story carries the reader forward, and can be read alone for a swift bedtime read.</div>
</span></span></li>
<li><div>
Nonfiction sidebars on each spread let you explore the complex world of the African Elephants.</div>
</li>
<li><div>
Amazing artwork!!</div>
</li>
<li><div>
Strong females make great role models.</div>
</li>
<li><div>
Makes a great gift for the young animal lover in your life.</div>
</li>
</ul>
<div style="font-size: 15px; letter-spacing: 0.5px;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1TaB4igM8vsgEM0HkaIOaTSC9jXfZqnfu1APNgSMijnd_wHOJNieZIchN-AudQQKzz7zEDe4g9Aksh3TTA03d6fpGg3r-OKmUomnEWDvb4V9P9kTA06D2dVz8nJhiMRBHQZ6v0_4MXVPJ/s1600/She+Leads+Calf+1.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1525" data-original-width="1600" height="305" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1TaB4igM8vsgEM0HkaIOaTSC9jXfZqnfu1APNgSMijnd_wHOJNieZIchN-AudQQKzz7zEDe4g9Aksh3TTA03d6fpGg3r-OKmUomnEWDvb4V9P9kTA06D2dVz8nJhiMRBHQZ6v0_4MXVPJ/s320/She+Leads+Calf+1.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="font-size: 15px; letter-spacing: 0.5px;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="font-size: 15px; letter-spacing: 0.5px;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="font-size: 15px; letter-spacing: 0.5px;">
<b>Where can you find it?</b></div>
<div style="font-size: 15px; letter-spacing: 0.5px;">
<br /></div>
<div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-size: 15px; letter-spacing: 0.5px;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-size: 15px; letter-spacing: 0.5px;">
<span lang="EN"><a href="https://www.indiebound.org/book/9781641702324" target="_blank">Indie Bound</a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-size: 15px; letter-spacing: 0.5px;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-size: 15px; letter-spacing: 0.5px;">
<span lang="EN"><a href="https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/she-leads-june-smalls/1134542815?ean=9781641702324" target="_blank">Barnes & Noble</a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-size: 15px; letter-spacing: 0.5px;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-size: 15px; letter-spacing: 0.5px;">
<span lang="EN"><a href="https://www.booksamillion.com/p/She-Leads/June-Smalls/9781641702324?id=7791353125921" target="_blank">Books-a-Million</a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-size: 15px; letter-spacing: 0.5px;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-size: 15px; letter-spacing: 0.5px;">
<span lang="EN" style="color: windowtext; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/164170232X/ref=dbs_a_def_rwt_bibl_vppi_i1" target="_blank">Amazon</a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-size: 15px; letter-spacing: 0.5px;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-size: 15px; letter-spacing: 0.5px;">
<br /></div>
<h2 style="font-size: 15px; letter-spacing: 0.5px;">
</h2>
<h2 style="font-size: 15px; letter-spacing: 0.5px;">
</h2>
<div>
<br /></div>
<h3 style="font-size: 15px; letter-spacing: 0.5px;">
Editorial Reviews:</h3>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-size: 15px; letter-spacing: 0.5px;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 15px; letter-spacing: 0.5px;">"This beautifully illustrated book has my two favorite things: nature and girl power. Its tender family story is paired, on each page, with facts about the matriarchal society of elephants, which means kids who love strict nonfiction and those who prefer a story line will both be satisfied. A must-have in every child's library."</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 15px; letter-spacing: 0.5px;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 15px; letter-spacing: 0.5px;">- <b>Heidi E. Y. Stemple</b>, poet and author of Counting Birds: The Idea that Helped Save Our Feathered Friends</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 15px; letter-spacing: 0.5px;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 15px; letter-spacing: 0.5px;">"A quietly powerful book about real girl power in the animal kindom. She Leads manages tobe both straightforward and moving, fact-filled and lyrical, and always firmly grounded in the power, nurturing strength, and beauty of the elephant matriarch and her legacy to those who will follow. Yumi Shimokawara's naturalistic illustrations bring the queen and her society to life, while June Small's main text offers the elegance of poetry, filled out by more information in the sidebars on each page. Ideal for story time, the classroom, or bedtime reading."</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 15px; letter-spacing: 0.5px;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 15px; letter-spacing: 0.5px;">- <b>Kathy MacMillan</b>, librarian and coauthor of She Spoke: 14 Women Who Raised Their Voices and Changed the World</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 15px; letter-spacing: 0.5px;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 15px; letter-spacing: 0.5px;">"With simple, yet lyrical text and stunning illustrations, She Leads: The Elephant Matriarch beautifully demonstrates the elegant grace and proud nature of these extraordinary animals for young readers."</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 15px; letter-spacing: 0.5px;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 15px; letter-spacing: 0.5px;">- <b>Lindsay Ward</b>, author and illustrator of Don't Forget Dexter</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 15px; letter-spacing: 0.5px;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 15px; letter-spacing: 0.5px;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 15px; letter-spacing: 0.5px;">"I am very impressed with the text, the illustrations, and the tone of the book on many levels. The illustrations are rich, the text is well-researched, and the story is one that many people will connect with easily. I am heartened and excited by the messages and information presented in regards to the wonderful social structure and the amazing behavior of these incredible creatures. Elephants have been role models for me in life for over twenty years, and I am in awe of them with every new fact that I learn and with every new insight into how they see the world and one another. She Leads captures that awe on many levels and sends strong and meaningful messages about the importance of family, leadership, and compassion."</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 15px; letter-spacing: 0.5px;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 15px; letter-spacing: 0.5px;">-<b> Mike McClure</b>, Maryland Zoo general curator and elephant collection manager</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-size: 15px; letter-spacing: 0.5px;">
<br /></div>
</div>
</div>
</span></div>
June Smallshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00344423860787737601noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-402626745863679958.post-82809037011473582302019-12-13T17:10:00.001-08:002019-12-13T17:20:33.253-08:00Oh, You Make Children’s Books?: How to Answer Those Questions About Kid Lit from the Fam<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimAGjXAmg6SpW625YuQLi40uCgteB9mcGGcjbkAiyHCVmguVBAAkzT6WgxgctRMLDU016doCpyY0T6r77kk5iaDgApe8tIngS7sRJQV_56h2-6yQuJxDAJzpa3tpYM2g6i-oLKEAKKqbEW/s1600/family-gathering-family-dinner.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="1200" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimAGjXAmg6SpW625YuQLi40uCgteB9mcGGcjbkAiyHCVmguVBAAkzT6WgxgctRMLDU016doCpyY0T6r77kk5iaDgApe8tIngS7sRJQV_56h2-6yQuJxDAJzpa3tpYM2g6i-oLKEAKKqbEW/s320/family-gathering-family-dinner.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
As a children's author, I hear this all the time, but more frequently around the
holidays and especially from family members. Writers and artists get asked this
question and more and we aren’t sure how to respond. So, here are some of the scenarios
we kid lit artists get and the potential responses you can use.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="text-indent: -0.25in;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<ul>
<li><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;"><b><u>Don’t you want to write “real” books?</u></b></span></li>
</ul>
<br />
I get this more from self-proclaimed non-readers, which is odd
in itself. But my typical responses are:<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>SHOCK FACTOR</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Gosh no! Why would I want to do that?” – this is followed
by a look of horror, as though they’ve asked me to skydive into an active
volcano while blindfolded.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>SWEET AND HONEST</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I love kid’s books and nothing else could make me happier.”
– Big smile, even when they obviously don’t get it.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>SORRY MY MOUTH IS FULL, SO I CAN’T SPEAK</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Mrph mble flrp…” - Pumpkin pie or hors d’oeuvres are great
tools.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixWhKrbCkAUmxERS2xM0PxIehSD7WgZgMmDjnfJ9aHvwDslINqKwLfJo3YOQWXiDKLWjiMpkfNIo6GQSo3x3Re1B7b8qUUp9w_gV4LlIV7bi2025dDXZDPdOH8vfBN1sDLaAQuXx22NwQu/s1600/these_funny_animals_594_640_15.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="637" height="188" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixWhKrbCkAUmxERS2xM0PxIehSD7WgZgMmDjnfJ9aHvwDslINqKwLfJo3YOQWXiDKLWjiMpkfNIo6GQSo3x3Re1B7b8qUUp9w_gV4LlIV7bi2025dDXZDPdOH8vfBN1sDLaAQuXx22NwQu/s200/these_funny_animals_594_640_15.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -.25in;">
</div>
<ul>
<li><u><b>Oh, I’ve always wanted to write a picture book.
Do you think we could collaborate/you could be my illustrator?</b></u></li>
</ul>
Obviously, I’m only an author, but I bet illustrators get
this even more than authors. Possible responses:<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>SHOCK FACTOR</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Here are my fees (Illustor’s) and did you know a picture
book can take two years MINIMUM to produce? Also, I have about five WIPs right
now and have no time.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>SWEET AND HONEST</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I started out with just an idea too. You should write your
story and if you are serious about traditional publishing, look into the SCBWI.
I have too much going on currently to collaborate but I’m happy to point you to some
great blogs/conferences/craft books you may like.”<o:p></o:p><br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
*Here is where you see if they are truly interested in a
long game or just ‘always thought it would be fun/easy.’*<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>SORRY MY MOUTH IS FULL, SO I CAN’T SPEAK</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Hmrph bing mblp…” - That extra roll was just calling my name…</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxLtKc_sGO36ksAbF5aht51sn3UgeGu2aB167KTVJApNPSofhFBq_nvdwOgzKDdt6sLF5BLmq93XkexAPWOIl114UXKaNuginJV9JanuGNvPH9gvQcJQFbFmUj29wJNk-CaWN8OloDC9Pq/s1600/fc78f1b0ff759e72c8add8b68dd0fb82--mouths-animal-pics.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="552" data-original-width="600" height="183" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxLtKc_sGO36ksAbF5aht51sn3UgeGu2aB167KTVJApNPSofhFBq_nvdwOgzKDdt6sLF5BLmq93XkexAPWOIl114UXKaNuginJV9JanuGNvPH9gvQcJQFbFmUj29wJNk-CaWN8OloDC9Pq/s200/fc78f1b0ff759e72c8add8b68dd0fb82--mouths-animal-pics.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="text-align: center; text-indent: -0.25in;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<ul>
<li><span style="text-align: center; text-indent: -0.25in;"><b><u>Why don’t you just self-publish? You could have
your book out in a few hours.</u></b></span></li>
</ul>
I don’t think people realize that it isn’t quite as easy as
they believe to self-publish picture books. Possible responses:<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>SHOCK FACTOR</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“You know when you self-publish, and do it well, you have to
hire and pay an illustrator (if you are the author only), be the final editor or hire an editor, be your own
sales person, marketer, art director, warehouse, distributor and it will be
exponentially harder to get your books into chain stores and even indie stores
still have to know you exist in order to buy your book. This takes a ton of
time away from my creative time.”<br />
<span style="text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">-<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span></span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">At this point most people have stopped listening.
But self-publishing, especially for picture books that need quality art, is WORK
and it isn’t for everyone.</span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>SWEET AND HONEST</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I never wanted the sole responsibility of wearing all the hats
a self-published author must wear. Plus, I was always scared that maybe my
writing wasn’t as good as I thought it was. By getting through the many, many obstacles
in traditional publishing, and working with professionals along the way, I know
my work will be the best it can be.”<br />
<span style="text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">-<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span></span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">Again, sometimes they stop listening. Not everyone
</span><i style="text-indent: -0.25in;">gets</i><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;"> my passion for kid lit. And that is OKAY. I don’t always </span><i style="text-indent: -0.25in;">get</i><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">
their passion for cross stitch, hockey, that popular tv show they keep talking
about.</span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>SORRY MY MOUTH IS FULL, SO I CAN’T SPEAK</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Worlm rmbl brmpth…” - This method may lead to a shocking
belly ache. But those cookies were worth it…<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixOWbLH-H60UHRob6umELE_5jTA4p7ZeI7Vyy-FlhQBQwSgQmYOlTs6QPAFeX9FuBqM1GC10JjfbVSvIvjr5dj6vDOd6BMEagW7AsbmWwbqb8eHRfK_MCHF6x_61d_EN1mOiCbAHbTkIQM/s1600/40cc091e3165aa7ab2f542d75abeed48.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="591" data-original-width="580" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixOWbLH-H60UHRob6umELE_5jTA4p7ZeI7Vyy-FlhQBQwSgQmYOlTs6QPAFeX9FuBqM1GC10JjfbVSvIvjr5dj6vDOd6BMEagW7AsbmWwbqb8eHRfK_MCHF6x_61d_EN1mOiCbAHbTkIQM/s200/40cc091e3165aa7ab2f542d75abeed48.jpg" width="196" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="text-indent: -0.25in;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<ul>
<li><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;"><b><u>So, you sold a picture book. When are you going
to quit your day job?</u></b></span></li>
</ul>
<b>The only response:</b><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“HAHAHAHAHAHAHHAHAHA….*BIG BREATH* AHHAHAHAHAHAHHAHA! Oh, oh
wait. You were serious?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-bYDEd7mS9N59HdVIshSUpud91YTrqiCtCG3yyk5E0qaRxdrAWuc7bBnmq5wYr-6VZ1_rhLxw4HoKai_W-UgogB-c43ujgfElszmIS7YLBqyKDoYeYVBnHI-NC9kY6iPVWTG6lDx8rxjs/s1600/DsTDhYkXcAAZnUb+%25282%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="758" data-original-width="583" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-bYDEd7mS9N59HdVIshSUpud91YTrqiCtCG3yyk5E0qaRxdrAWuc7bBnmq5wYr-6VZ1_rhLxw4HoKai_W-UgogB-c43ujgfElszmIS7YLBqyKDoYeYVBnHI-NC9kY6iPVWTG6lDx8rxjs/s200/DsTDhYkXcAAZnUb+%25282%2529.jpg" width="153" /></a>It is okay to be awkward and not sure how to answer. Some
people are easy to talk to while others make you feel like you are under a spotlight.<br />
<br />
Many of us artists are introverts and don’t want to talk about ourselves and
our art. Others wave their nerd flag proudly.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Even if you don’t have a book out yet, if you want to talk
about your art, your path, and your struggles, then go for it. If you want to
avoid it, then play with the dog/cat/baby so you have an excuse for being
distracted while others bombard each other with questions. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
You can always offer to wash the dishes when you need to run
away. Most relatives won’t follow.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Any other great responses to common questions?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Please keep if PG. We write for kids, you
know.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.amazon.com/She-Leads-Matriarch-June-Smalls/dp/164170232X/ref=pd_ybh_a_4?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=1YY7Y78KYRHDEJ4NJZ09" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1000" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6odBGKm_0qK_5hBv4WO5qLWxQTXh70tzHiK3NdJ1Agk2ZjpGEJOJuYM3eJtpper5gnZAz0UP7Oa8FJ644pNPlwRD9byavzBhs_aTdIZ0K2O3MjHAFaTKhJwPCfYkkxYIHUFrhlBl6eZWl/s200/She+Leads+Cover.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />June Smallshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00344423860787737601noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-402626745863679958.post-24278814151006808662019-05-14T17:30:00.000-07:002019-05-14T17:43:46.446-07:00Interview with Illustrator Claire Sedovic<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAGNIQ56rK1z8ETlT6kXtrqmfjkUPfQbcIPWSp1jH4VsfyAS3M_DFov9lQE98WMtDKSA4o-_bF948pUb4QbAi6NRk7RC-FhGLkxxq_hanC7Sk5c-yJ_fa1vq44PycZNS3salcymMhVhyphenhyphencY/s1600/Claire.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="369" data-original-width="246" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAGNIQ56rK1z8ETlT6kXtrqmfjkUPfQbcIPWSp1jH4VsfyAS3M_DFov9lQE98WMtDKSA4o-_bF948pUb4QbAi6NRk7RC-FhGLkxxq_hanC7Sk5c-yJ_fa1vq44PycZNS3salcymMhVhyphenhyphencY/s320/Claire.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
<div style="line-height: 17.12px; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt 0.5in;">
<span style="color: purple;"><b>Today we welcome illustrator Claire Sedovic. She is the amazing artist who brought the Odd Animal ABC's to life. Thank you for joining us today. So, inquiring minds want to know...</b></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 17.12px; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt 0.5in;">
<span style="color: purple;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 17.12px; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt 0.5in;">
<span style="color: purple;"><b>How did you become the illustrator for Odd Animal ABC’s?</b></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 17.12px; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt 0.5in;">
<span style="color: purple;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 17.12px; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt 0.5in; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-BjwaDbcIqXoxDe-0NBuAOFHNbbAMgEokrQ0o7Cf-i9lVgo-fMFpsMMbf3_yDEaQl1Crhyphenhyphenz0nzXJ0V-s7Of1OlxP5fgKjN_-xgdkSKclgmNdv8nqNobW3Gy-8FcjQ4kjv7RtYpkYPmfNA/s1600/echidna.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-BjwaDbcIqXoxDe-0NBuAOFHNbbAMgEokrQ0o7Cf-i9lVgo-fMFpsMMbf3_yDEaQl1Crhyphenhyphenz0nzXJ0V-s7Of1OlxP5fgKjN_-xgdkSKclgmNdv8nqNobW3Gy-8FcjQ4kjv7RtYpkYPmfNA/s320/echidna.jpg" width="320" /></a><span class="m_-4036608643945867481Apple-tab-span" style="font-weight: bold; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span>After quitting my job as a graphic designer for a major media company last spring, I began sending postcards featuring my art to potential publishers. Blue Manatee Press was one such publisher whose work I admired, so of course they received a postcard from me. A couple of months later I heard from Amy Dean (Editorial & Marketing Director at Blue Manatee Press) that she was looking for an illustrator for a manuscript she had just acquired and wanted to know if I would like to submit my work for consideration. Of course I said yes, and almost exactly a year later, <i>Odd Animal ABC’s</i> was published featuring my art!</div>
<div style="line-height: 17.12px; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt 0.5in;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="line-height: 17.12px; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt 0.5in;">
<span style="color: purple;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 17.12px; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt 0.5in;">
<span style="color: purple;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 17.12px; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt 0.5in;">
<span style="color: purple;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 17.12px; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt 0.5in;">
<span style="color: purple;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 17.12px; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt 0.5in;">
<span style="color: purple;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 17.12px; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt 0.5in;">
<span style="color: purple;"><b>I feel very lucky that Blue Manatee had that postcard! Have you always wanted to illustrate?</b></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 17.12px; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt 0.5in;">
<span style="color: purple;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 17.12px; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt 0.5in; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span class="m_-4036608643945867481Apple-tab-span" style="font-weight: bold; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span>Indeed I have. As a child I often wrote and illustrated sequels to my favorite picture books or crafted my own original stories complete with detailed illustrations in marker or paint.</div>
<div style="line-height: 17.12px; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt 0.5in;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="line-height: 17.12px; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt 0.5in;">
<span style="color: purple;"><b>Can you describe your process of taking this story text and developing it. </b></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 17.12px; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt 0.5in;">
<span style="color: purple;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 17.12px; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt 0.5in; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizrjhClx15LiypK7MKupzGYqK1LLzJ33zyyEvlNpnuRX1tiASqcukSiyW-ndUSDZwhjMAPf3p-uFTWmXjweM_bK8m-t066ZjggqS7E5jbBhGPdnka78DurF791lEAWgrXemxQd_safuf0J/s1600/elephant.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizrjhClx15LiypK7MKupzGYqK1LLzJ33zyyEvlNpnuRX1tiASqcukSiyW-ndUSDZwhjMAPf3p-uFTWmXjweM_bK8m-t066ZjggqS7E5jbBhGPdnka78DurF791lEAWgrXemxQd_safuf0J/s320/elephant.jpg" width="320" /></a><span class="m_-4036608643945867481Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span>I must say I feel very fortunate that you and I were able to correspond as often as we did while I developed the illustrations for the text as I realize now that is not typical of the author/illustrator relationship. I think our collaboration succeeded because I was receptive to the illustration notes you offered, and you were willing to change the text in some instances that I interpreted it a little differently with my illustrations than you expected. As an illustrator, I see my role as someone who can visually fill the gaps in the story. And because this story text is all dialogue (and a lot of humor!) I felt like I had a lot of room to play. </div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 17.12px; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt 0.5in; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 17.12px; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt 0.5in; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span class="m_-4036608643945867481Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span>I started the process by reading the text over and over to get a good feel for the story. I then created thumbnail sketches to determine the flow and layout of the book. Once those sketches were approved I proceeded with the full scale art, but even then, I continued to make adjustments as the story evolved and I received feedback from you and Amy.</div>
<div style="line-height: 17.12px; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt 0.5in;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="line-height: 17.12px; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt 0.5in;">
<span style="color: purple;"><b>I've told lots of people how you helped shape this into a better book. Without some of your requests due to art, I wouldn't have my two favorite jokes in there! </b></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: purple;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI7EibYRD5nyw8ZQG1SOyiprhRaYU8PbdM8EexLOMdjuZqx78NNiYHzkYLtYB-HTkg5MmQhg0khr2-Ec4cnc02JRkK8wx_flwE0xlbucD1elRnkEEX6RMhKWLO2YZbEDQPv43K2wsmENsr/s1600/ibis.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI7EibYRD5nyw8ZQG1SOyiprhRaYU8PbdM8EexLOMdjuZqx78NNiYHzkYLtYB-HTkg5MmQhg0khr2-Ec4cnc02JRkK8wx_flwE0xlbucD1elRnkEEX6RMhKWLO2YZbEDQPv43K2wsmENsr/s320/ibis.jpg" width="320" /></a></b></span></div>
<span style="color: purple;"><b>
</b></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 17.12px; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt 0.5in;">
<span style="color: purple;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 17.12px; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt 0.5in;">
<span style="color: purple;"><b>So there are 53 real animals (and one imaginary unicorn) in this book. Was the large cast of characters a problem?</b></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 17.12px; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt 0.5in;">
<span style="color: purple;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 17.12px; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt 0.5in; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span class="m_-4036608643945867481Apple-tab-span" style="font-weight: bold; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span>I wouldn’t say the large cast was a problem, but it was certainly a challenge. I loved researching the different animals to ensure that I drew them accurately, but it took some time to figure out when and were certain animals should reappear in order to drive the narrative along. In some cases, this was already written into the text, but throughout the illustration process I took some liberties to add or omit for visual appeal and to help integrate the ABC letters into the illustrations.</div>
<div style="line-height: 17.12px; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt 0.5in;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="line-height: 17.12px; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt 0.5in;">
<span style="color: purple;"><b>I love the coloring of the letters themselves too. So what do you hope readers take away from this story?</b></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 17.12px; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt 0.5in;">
<span style="color: purple;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 17.12px; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt 0.5in; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<b><span class="m_-4036608643945867481Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span></b>I hope that the book widens kids’ understanding of just how diverse the animal kingdom really is. Of course I hope they laugh along with all the wonderful, and often weird critters as they travel from A to Z, but on a deeper level, I also hope that it sparks new curiosity about the natural world and a desire preserve and protect it for future generations.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg98HKu0Te9GKwPzMylz357-Khgpl9lorzxvwUZBP7LzaYJGkAZs9lwwlgp0sqgKppQX0aj6NEmtNfiQlW1ZcMJKyxywpjrkGHmO4WU5fIvUlbYXiG3J879ORP_-AdzrG67p1pVyg3Hdo-G/s1600/fox.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg98HKu0Te9GKwPzMylz357-Khgpl9lorzxvwUZBP7LzaYJGkAZs9lwwlgp0sqgKppQX0aj6NEmtNfiQlW1ZcMJKyxywpjrkGHmO4WU5fIvUlbYXiG3J879ORP_-AdzrG67p1pVyg3Hdo-G/s320/fox.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="line-height: 17.12px; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt 0.5in;">
<span style="color: purple;"><b>That was my hope too. Now, a very important question,<br />
what is your favorite chocolate or dessert?</b></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 17.12px; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt 0.5in;">
<span style="color: purple;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; line-height: 17.12px; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt 0.5in;">
<span class="m_-4036608643945867481Apple-tab-span" style="font-weight: bold; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span>How about <i>chocolate dessert</i>?</div>
<div style="line-height: 17.12px; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt 0.5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrx64EZfaRxTbdBp92fhYWTX8QQs-J8VZb3gACvW-DbFDpIr-NsZRyqb-djbBVJIs58Ds4qVwwdEAFyAsvZyjecT7g-6WjamSmXZBp-M5oSFt8Nx8BbRVgzDd7rU9x2P2qU2CID6Gw_BCi/s1600/finished+fox.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrx64EZfaRxTbdBp92fhYWTX8QQs-J8VZb3gACvW-DbFDpIr-NsZRyqb-djbBVJIs58Ds4qVwwdEAFyAsvZyjecT7g-6WjamSmXZBp-M5oSFt8Nx8BbRVgzDd7rU9x2P2qU2CID6Gw_BCi/s320/finished+fox.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="line-height: 17.12px; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt 0.5in;">
<span style="color: purple;"><b>Where else can readers find you and your art?</b></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 17.12px; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt 0.5in;">
<span style="color: purple;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<span class="im" style="background-color: white; color: #500050; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"></span><span class="im" style="background-color: white; color: #500050; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"></span><br />
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; line-height: 17.12px; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt 0.5in;">
<span class="m_-4036608643945867481Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span>You can find more of my work on my website (<a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=http://www.clairesedovic.com&source=gmail&ust=1557887392010000&usg=AFQjCNF0vjo4N2oVyJvIt9UyMSSZlyMcFQ" href="http://www.clairesedovic.com/" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">clairesedovic.com</a>) and follow me on Instagram @clairesedovic.</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; line-height: 17.12px; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt 0.5in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; line-height: 17.12px; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt 0.5in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: white; line-height: 17.12px; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt 0.5in;">
<span style="color: purple;"><b>Wish you were on Twitter more. You are missing some major book love! Thank you so much for giving life to these odd and amazing animals and for joining us on the blog. Best wishes that your illustrating career is long, prosperous, and full of happy readers!!</b></span></div>
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.amazon.com/Odd-Animal-ABCs-June-Smalls/dp/1936669730/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1545426326&sr=8-1&keywords=odd+animal+abc%27s" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="1227" data-original-width="1500" height="261" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvw1EoPlQNpqsBIKs-jqQoLj70ENNFBtrzxe2gC1zo1cCr9umcb3k3sco9FT4Yg73MTcu0whpV47saFp510Ipn_MQdGDS9h6__aBwWwjqhDmoTCsgYFNMkQuOPeQPXrEAxFqKS69iFiFd3/s320/Odd+Animal+ABC%2527s+highres.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br /></div>
June Smallshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00344423860787737601noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-402626745863679958.post-58985471236690910242019-05-03T19:24:00.000-07:002019-05-03T19:34:16.198-07:00So You Have a Book Coming Out: Part Four: Taxes and DeductionsUpfront Disclaimer: I'm not a tax pro or lawyer or anything other than a writer trying to stay organized. This way, I have the information to give to my tax professional.<br />
<br />
You, as a published author or illustrator, are now a business. That means there is some not-so-fun things we have to deal with so we can keep writing and creating.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAzgYDpWwu4lkHqprGLrWIRHKa_ASIOkDyWdqAw4F1_DbDnSJQ9gfLGB0Tgw6iegidj078Z7dOmpyNn3omzVxr1RM92XXfWJI4lS8SFQJhLe2VMGnWxgcEhXyxkYlxyuUzw94nEcMxiWVk/s1600/tax-deadline_gettyimages-1094362714.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="840" data-original-width="1600" height="105" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAzgYDpWwu4lkHqprGLrWIRHKa_ASIOkDyWdqAw4F1_DbDnSJQ9gfLGB0Tgw6iegidj078Z7dOmpyNn3omzVxr1RM92XXfWJI4lS8SFQJhLe2VMGnWxgcEhXyxkYlxyuUzw94nEcMxiWVk/s200/tax-deadline_gettyimages-1094362714.jpg" width="200" /></a>Taxes.<br />
<br />
Let's face it. Laws change, the forms are about a million words long, and who knows what we may be missing if you don't have a certified accountant in the family.<br />
<br />
<br />
I have a certified public accountant. I think they are worth the money, not only for the time it saves me, but the relief from stress and anxiety I have that I may mess something up and having the IRS show up Men In Black style.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7v3qAveEboY0i4uDq0x3KW4OiquE5grvPJYVmF-HXtCycNAHD6hak-InsC3LgoQG3-w65SDrYHqBr3AxDONArGb4GhuBsPKUi28IWDBDVe4tczZ6P_JMGY5OkZ_skHh5S73pmjxHQ9MRM/s1600/MIB.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="1280" height="112" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7v3qAveEboY0i4uDq0x3KW4OiquE5grvPJYVmF-HXtCycNAHD6hak-InsC3LgoQG3-w65SDrYHqBr3AxDONArGb4GhuBsPKUi28IWDBDVe4tczZ6P_JMGY5OkZ_skHh5S73pmjxHQ9MRM/s200/MIB.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
+</div>
Whether you are a do-it-yourself-er, or you use a pro, you need to be organized all year long. Not just those first two weeks of April.<br />
<br />
You don't need a fancy or expensive program. I use excel.<br />
<br />
First: Do you have a home office that is <b>solely </b>used for your business as a writer or illustrator?<br />
If so, this may be tax deductible. That means this little piece of creative heaven may save you a bit on your dues to Uncle Sam. But you have to keep track of some things:<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>Your home's TOTAL square footage and the OFFICE square footage. </li>
<li>Electric Bill</li>
<li>Internet Bill</li>
<li>Gas Bill</li>
<li>Phone Bill</li>
</ul>
<br />
Then a percentage of you home's bills are what is actually deductible, based on how much space it takes. You have to have the totals for each month. It is easier to keep track of this monthly, rather than digging through old bills, or hunting for your gas company user name and password right before the tax deadline.<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi87rmh24Vj9WYJSFjSJab5c0iUFi_-2lN3z-XnQNihuaOgQ5kntqQYd5mJO37vh6itMr0_Vs5_o24984rXaH3NoDqCITmPH9-qQGKcatXcJ0sZ5-33dcVAbx32Ep3VwImUoDJEnq8473Qf/s1600/shoebox-with-receipts.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="300" data-original-width="450" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi87rmh24Vj9WYJSFjSJab5c0iUFi_-2lN3z-XnQNihuaOgQ5kntqQYd5mJO37vh6itMr0_Vs5_o24984rXaH3NoDqCITmPH9-qQGKcatXcJ0sZ5-33dcVAbx32Ep3VwImUoDJEnq8473Qf/s200/shoebox-with-receipts.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiryRgRHiJrIY6iPI9jLRG7y2CD76ADzikgI3n517jCc03TQKsJ4ayDWesjICDUTx905-cZgpMR3SoocfIDnasFFTcq1_QGgTEHopGU77zi8aWq_GTKyYqfTnIqSB5Qwd-XdzD7Ii2UPT2m/s1600/taxes_03.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="530" data-original-width="800" height="132" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiryRgRHiJrIY6iPI9jLRG7y2CD76ADzikgI3n517jCc03TQKsJ4ayDWesjICDUTx905-cZgpMR3SoocfIDnasFFTcq1_QGgTEHopGU77zi8aWq_GTKyYqfTnIqSB5Qwd-XdzD7Ii2UPT2m/s200/taxes_03.jpg" width="200" /></a>You can also deduct business related expenses. Keep <b>ALL </b>receipts and label and organize them. If you get audited, you want everything available and easy to find. I'm talking file folders or binders as opposed to shoe boxes.<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>Items to track for possible deductions:</b><br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>Copies of your books for sales, promotional giveaways, and donations</li>
<li>Mileage for School Visits </li>
<li>Food and Hotels for out of town School Visits or Presentations</li>
<li>Writer or Illustrator Organization Annual Dues (i.e. SCBWI)</li>
<li>Classes for continuing your education</li>
<li>Promotional materials (stickers, bookmarks, pins)</li>
<li>Website fees</li>
<li>Author/Illustrator Professional Photos (again, falls under promotional materials)</li>
<li>Office Supplies</li>
<li>Art Supplies (for illustrators)</li>
<li>Necessary Office Equipment: Computer- yes! That mini golf putter thing and fancy espresso maker-no!</li>
<li>Donations (if you donate a copy of your book, track what you pay, not the retail value.)</li>
</ul>
<br />
<br />
There is probably more that I haven't thought of, but hey, I'm new at this.<br />
<br />
I keep everything in an excel spreadsheet in summary as well as a sheet for all I am paid:<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>Advances</li>
<li>School Visit Fees</li>
<li>Speaking Engagements</li>
<li>Royalties</li>
</ul>
<br />
<br />
Again, this is NOT a comprehensive guide. This is just stuff I've figured out on my own this year as a debut author. If you have any questions about your specific circumstances, I recommend finding a local tax pro. Preferably before next April.<br />
<br />
So get organized and then get back to writing.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3ngAPkjC59JhlVz9bXdMiL9mj4g8dyx-Aocz6yoDEiY5Fw4f3rAr4gE-VyVkr1y5G3aZQ40FqjaWxq9jT6-Y8dXlGmkm3AMYJtLcxnCO_xGroiY1duOcdISUorecXfV-Ba71GUFeCU7Nt/s1600/1587755.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="545" data-original-width="610" height="178" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3ngAPkjC59JhlVz9bXdMiL9mj4g8dyx-Aocz6yoDEiY5Fw4f3rAr4gE-VyVkr1y5G3aZQ40FqjaWxq9jT6-Y8dXlGmkm3AMYJtLcxnCO_xGroiY1duOcdISUorecXfV-Ba71GUFeCU7Nt/s200/1587755.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 188px;"><colgroup><col style="mso-width-alt: 4408; mso-width-source: userset; width: 93pt;" width="124"></col><col style="width: 48pt;" width="64"></col></colgroup><tbody>
<tr height="19" style="height: 14.4pt;"><td class="xl65" height="19" style="border-top: none; height: 14.4pt;"></td>
<td class="xl65" style="border-left: none; border-top: none;"><br />
<br /></td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
June Smallshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00344423860787737601noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-402626745863679958.post-12930594015708683792019-04-23T15:33:00.000-07:002019-05-03T18:24:32.743-07:00Author Interview with Giveaway: Gayle Krause<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimrkcPt8U6fdiDDNn7oWwzzR6ymkuqyEnPOxKjiUVlCBEeD7pbCgYZwPXX4ntbjWsx8zQRO7FNM0ujmsihPgL-aDAq9kDD3_iW9-bDwHikGf4N0VCTQgz0087sYyq6YgpMxbnxeeWvxZ4c/s1600/2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1257" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimrkcPt8U6fdiDDNn7oWwzzR6ymkuqyEnPOxKjiUVlCBEeD7pbCgYZwPXX4ntbjWsx8zQRO7FNM0ujmsihPgL-aDAq9kDD3_iW9-bDwHikGf4N0VCTQgz0087sYyq6YgpMxbnxeeWvxZ4c/s320/2.jpg" width="251" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt;">Today we have picture book author Gayle Krause here to tell us about her new book, <i>Daddy Can You See the Moon.</i> Gayle has also been kind enough to offer a picture book critique to one lucky reader. </span><br />
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt;">Thank
you, Gayle, for joining me on Reading, Writing, and Reaching for Chocolate!</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; mso-line-height-alt: 12.85pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; mso-line-height-alt: 12.85pt;">
<span style="color: red; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">Thank
you for hosting me, June.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; mso-line-height-alt: 12.85pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; mso-line-height-alt: 12.85pt;">
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">Every
reader loves to know, what inspired this story?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="color: red; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">As former Early Childhood
Educator, I taught Children’s Literature to prospective teachers as part of
their training program for over thirty years. I also directed a Laboratory
Pre-K, affiliated with my teaching course, in Goshen, NY. It was there, as I
sat on the floor of the nursery school, reading countless picture books to the
preschoolers, or acting out fairy tales as creative dramatic presentations that
I became uniquely attuned to the young child’s mind.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiiWkM2Lq3l1XMqsqp1fXza9x4kSdDizrbKEZ9du9K9-kSD9wx15gnsxEdGCvC_xQajQrQGGxlqnFkI1EOPdQDS9vlXPZ9E0sO5vlesQRSmfoaVxrLi5a1bCHO0XUveDIWuOPiRO8lcFID/s1600/Page+7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1283" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiiWkM2Lq3l1XMqsqp1fXza9x4kSdDizrbKEZ9du9K9-kSD9wx15gnsxEdGCvC_xQajQrQGGxlqnFkI1EOPdQDS9vlXPZ9E0sO5vlesQRSmfoaVxrLi5a1bCHO0XUveDIWuOPiRO8lcFID/s320/Page+7.jpg" width="256" /></a><span style="color: red; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">These precious little guys
struggle to make sense of the world around them, especially the adult world of
their parents. Emotional situations like divorce and deployment affect these
children in a way that most adults cannot see. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="color: red; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">It was one particular little boy
that was having a very difficult time accepting the time frame of his dad’s
separation from the family. That came back to me years later and the end result
is <b><i>DADDY, CAN YOU SEE THE MOON?</i></b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; mso-line-height-alt: 12.85pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; mso-line-height-alt: 12.85pt;">
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">What
is your process like?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 8.0pt;">
<span style="color: red; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">As I mentioned above, I taught high school students and college
freshman and also ran a Laboratory Pre-K. Consequently, after spending 30 years
with these kids, I tend to write at both ends of the spectrum. Picture Books or
Young Adult.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzIALKj-6MJGRLOF5caE2siqRIr_y0wu-hGJHrin9PJPxSqJAU1_rjuFFKw7UkHnmtj7z3V8EohmxLgZZdpik7KIQJ-9jkZIDYdUC4Q5g5lXItFeWmawJAnmIBzapeSVZ-gPP2svHpY6NT/s1600/Page+16-17.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1036" data-original-width="1600" height="207" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzIALKj-6MJGRLOF5caE2siqRIr_y0wu-hGJHrin9PJPxSqJAU1_rjuFFKw7UkHnmtj7z3V8EohmxLgZZdpik7KIQJ-9jkZIDYdUC4Q5g5lXItFeWmawJAnmIBzapeSVZ-gPP2svHpY6NT/s320/Page+16-17.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; mso-line-height-alt: 12.85pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 8.0pt;">
<span style="color: red; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">So my process might be a bit unconventional. After I spend two years
or so working on a novel, I switch gears and create rhyming picture books. Why
rhyming? Because essentially, I have a YA voice, and the rhymes help keep my
word count low. Also, I enjoy the challenge of meter, beats, alliteration, and
story in a rhyming format.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 8.0pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; mso-line-height-alt: 12.85pt;">
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">What
do you hope readers take away from this story?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; mso-line-height-alt: 12.85pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3_sgwqwggddxxVdsSE29utQEe4kWqDv-Uq0Ou9Nz68BR8_0Skvl4L5H_a54G2wlpgmPYp4F6QgInEbM9zlSKI0eEtUAlhJ0Xgt8zH4BqrXixP_B9bzI1Gh-SG7hvi_VD9X83bc7InN3E3/s1600/Page+23+%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1317" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3_sgwqwggddxxVdsSE29utQEe4kWqDv-Uq0Ou9Nz68BR8_0Skvl4L5H_a54G2wlpgmPYp4F6QgInEbM9zlSKI0eEtUAlhJ0Xgt8zH4BqrXixP_B9bzI1Gh-SG7hvi_VD9X83bc7InN3E3/s320/Page+23+%25281%2529.jpg" width="263" /></a><span style="color: red; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">In this book, children from
military families can see that they are not alone in this incredible,
perplexing moment when Mom or Dad has to leave the family. And non-military
children can also share the family bond and love that strengthens this little
boy. The moon</span><span style="background: white; color: red; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;"> may wax and wane, but the special bond between a young boy
and his father never wavers. </span><span style="color: red; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">Since April is recognized
as <i>The Month of the Military Child,</i><span style="mso-bidi-font-style: italic;"> I have teamed up with OUR MILITARY KIDS to help support children and
families of deployed soldiers. 10% of all royalties will be donated to OUR
MILITARY KIDS.</span></span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;"> </span><u style="text-underline: #386EFF;"><span style="color: #386eff; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif;">www.ourmilitarykids.org</span></u><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr4RlezY2aLuXfoSOh7LpIAMnPpYNJTkwDTkH2WS-5f_fG2gDeXcYcfQBLwgeySSJ-CjtSWrF_yAmkJG_Y4i9jc9NUyp4f3SYr-IqJnQomuNG4XpBMtvbzEJXFOFhpd7WMhlvKDVryfb6x/s1600/11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="85" data-original-width="100" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr4RlezY2aLuXfoSOh7LpIAMnPpYNJTkwDTkH2WS-5f_fG2gDeXcYcfQBLwgeySSJ-CjtSWrF_yAmkJG_Y4i9jc9NUyp4f3SYr-IqJnQomuNG4XpBMtvbzEJXFOFhpd7WMhlvKDVryfb6x/s1600/11.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; mso-line-height-alt: 12.85pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; mso-line-height-alt: 12.85pt;">
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">That is amazing! What
else are you working on?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 8.0pt;">
<span style="color: red; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">I am currently working on a MG Fantasy trilogy with a boy
protagonist that goes on fantastic adventures in a parallel world.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; mso-line-height-alt: 12.85pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; mso-line-height-alt: 12.85pt;">
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">What
is your favorite chocolate or dessert?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; mso-line-height-alt: 12.85pt;">
<span style="color: red; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">My
favorite dessert is a combination of both….a chocolate éclair<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo6sWtvo-jfEj3j-SIwcCwgZ9F0uGb7sYd_nAigzHuc24xpoZiM67V3i_GTAiK7dIzHYZfGcNSfJmyzVe5GZOZwH2vLNvxzUQK4ERlNPFz0pn6chFceSgQzqQ_3WFa6BFaTWTi8v1Fw-Aa/s1600/1.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="300" data-original-width="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo6sWtvo-jfEj3j-SIwcCwgZ9F0uGb7sYd_nAigzHuc24xpoZiM67V3i_GTAiK7dIzHYZfGcNSfJmyzVe5GZOZwH2vLNvxzUQK4ERlNPFz0pn6chFceSgQzqQ_3WFa6BFaTWTi8v1Fw-Aa/s1600/1.jpeg" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; mso-line-height-alt: 12.85pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; mso-line-height-alt: 12.85pt;">
<span style="color: red; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">Thanks
again for having me on your blog, June. If your readers would like to know more
about my books they can find me at </span><a href="http://www.gayleckrause.com/"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">http://www.gayleckrause.com</span></a><span style="color: red; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; mso-line-height-alt: 12.85pt;">
<span style="color: red; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14.0pt;"><o:p><br /></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; mso-line-height-alt: 12.85pt;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p><b>GIVE AWAY: Gayle is giving one lucky reader a rhyming picture book critique. </b></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; mso-line-height-alt: 12.85pt;">
<span style="color: red; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">I’d like
to offer a rhyming picture book critique of no more than 500 words to one of
your followers. If they would kindly comment below and share this post on
social media (including where they posted).<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="color: red; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="font-family: "times new roman", serif; font-size: 18.6667px;">GIVE AWAY HAS ENDED (5-1-19) THANK YOU </b><br />
<b style="font-family: "times new roman", serif; font-size: 18.6667px;"><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14.0pt;"><o:p>Thanks again for joining me on the blog and for your generous giveaway. Best of luck to all the readers. </o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14.0pt;"><o:p><br /></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14.0pt;"><o:p>Happy Writing!</o:p></span></div>
<br />June Smallshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00344423860787737601noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-402626745863679958.post-35657121224650178892019-04-04T10:00:00.000-07:002019-04-07T14:34:19.859-07:00So You Have a Book Coming Out: Part Three: Author/Illustrator Photos<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiitbxAfXQsqvtZCdFPP70PlPiIeP21rZPMVTz6Gdzn50DRK5Rsv8GVzb_rqtUFL7MXeWKE8NcLBiVf5qpXNw23_FVnldgVUZqOZCSWv753F1bbeBNgsCrdbmLIUVdCYKLWqn_MFpi7yoLG/s1600/shutterstock_705036580.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="900" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiitbxAfXQsqvtZCdFPP70PlPiIeP21rZPMVTz6Gdzn50DRK5Rsv8GVzb_rqtUFL7MXeWKE8NcLBiVf5qpXNw23_FVnldgVUZqOZCSWv753F1bbeBNgsCrdbmLIUVdCYKLWqn_MFpi7yoLG/s200/shutterstock_705036580.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Some people are naturally photogenic. No matter what they
are doing or what they are wearing, every photo comes out like something in a
magazine. I am not one of those people. I'm usually caught while talking with one eye half shut.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
As a published author or illustrator, you are now a business. Your photo needs to convey a sense of professionalism as well as showing who you
are. Writing thrillers? Maybe a dark and broody shot would work. Goofy humor?
Colorful and full of light and laughter may portray you best. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
If you can, hire a professional photographer. It is a
business expense that you can write off at the end of the year. Or tell a loved
one, all you want for your birthday is a 30 minute photo shoot.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Amateur Example: I took this photo with my really nice camera I bought on a Black Friday Deal a couple of years ago. We took like 30 shots and this is the only one I didn't hate.<o:p></o:p></div>
<img height="145" src="https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DZzYY2-VoAATtEs.jpg:large" width="320" /><br />
<br />
Professional Example:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0R8QJhi7kzjVvhbkDOushRNNBPH5DlV-8_YaBUl-mJd_FNiGxPh-zVXl8cVAh2RjPU6tvJn9JVdEagYBmCwHBWJJPXHHzF8iiMEX7ycyEyRZ3ySH6ErlccmjZZeNScHkASKBzOsM2xzAE/s1600/June+Smalls.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0R8QJhi7kzjVvhbkDOushRNNBPH5DlV-8_YaBUl-mJd_FNiGxPh-zVXl8cVAh2RjPU6tvJn9JVdEagYBmCwHBWJJPXHHzF8iiMEX7ycyEyRZ3ySH6ErlccmjZZeNScHkASKBzOsM2xzAE/s320/June+Smalls.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I paid for a 30 minute session. We met at an old library. She took a bunch of shots, sent me about 15, and I seriously like all of them. With her lighting, superior equipment and artistic eye, she made me look younger and like I'd lost 15 pounds. She gave simple instruction like, "chin out a little more," or, "lean forward slightly," or, "That yellow background is washing you out. Lets move over here."<br />
<br />
This looks professional, flattering, and the high resolution means it will maintain its quality even when resized. This is important since you'll be sending this file to interviews and author/illustrator visits.<br />
<br />
<br />
A few tips: Tiny print on your clothes doesn't always translate well on camera.<br />
<br />
Some poses feel awkward but look great on camera.<br />
<br />
Stop to relax you face after holding the smile for so long.<br />
<br />
Call around to photographers. I don't believe the one I worked with advertised a 30 minute session, but when I explained what I needed she said a full hour session was unnecessary. Although, she started having fun with some shots and we did go a little over our time, but she didn't charge me extra.<br />
<br />
Also, HAVE FUN! For that photo session, you are the star.June Smallshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00344423860787737601noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-402626745863679958.post-10290537421845775402019-03-30T08:18:00.000-07:002019-03-30T08:18:10.115-07:00Publishing: The Good, The Bad, Your Perspective<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhctoPyV-V1ZSUDDOns7-eB14wRSJl-cpTaVpYE0ESAJknu90oA6MCHVtNfR5LY5HLauxv631xlLo5vXWgLWOhJftG6jBFRUpF5ESVeyy39HGbUkxQPq6yxEeosoElMLaTcMiI7I_laR2N5/s1600/_95717585_happy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="371" data-original-width="660" height="111" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhctoPyV-V1ZSUDDOns7-eB14wRSJl-cpTaVpYE0ESAJknu90oA6MCHVtNfR5LY5HLauxv631xlLo5vXWgLWOhJftG6jBFRUpF5ESVeyy39HGbUkxQPq6yxEeosoElMLaTcMiI7I_laR2N5/s200/_95717585_happy.jpg" width="200" /></a><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
You have a contract. Yay!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiChExzWOKqpwk5rRJAAOqMV_A-KrCbtP6Pp_Wud9QRM9RLRHwn_I4x7yUmRaFfOU6WJUH-xZyfB-vqeSLOpXv3qx3gu1Ymgl30xY7NgxR4eQPoiy8hu0tqjRd_DIPw8-XBioYI3jstgTx9/s1600/characterpic-square-mrgrumpy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="491" data-original-width="633" height="155" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiChExzWOKqpwk5rRJAAOqMV_A-KrCbtP6Pp_Wud9QRM9RLRHwn_I4x7yUmRaFfOU6WJUH-xZyfB-vqeSLOpXv3qx3gu1Ymgl30xY7NgxR4eQPoiy8hu0tqjRd_DIPw8-XBioYI3jstgTx9/s200/characterpic-square-mrgrumpy.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Plans and dates change…Crud.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
My debut picture book was scheduled to publish on April 2<sup>nd</sup>.
Due to some issues with the actual printer (no fault of the publishing house, machinery
was being replaced) the date was pushed to the 16<sup>th</sup> and now to May 7<sup>th</sup>.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlBAHAB1QN4p02cac1OqbOWlZupIHu-RXabmp0nBBfF4Zt3Pp4XYXhXOqR-qK1SL6SQLiQ3NC1GMrflYUlilkxDCgleg8VVJtNljHWnhZhXwmWHN4bVXMb1EuzLcRlqD1Y3Sx_kO4TY7pJ/s1600/mr__worry_by_percyfan94.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="626" data-original-width="486" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlBAHAB1QN4p02cac1OqbOWlZupIHu-RXabmp0nBBfF4Zt3Pp4XYXhXOqR-qK1SL6SQLiQ3NC1GMrflYUlilkxDCgleg8VVJtNljHWnhZhXwmWHN4bVXMb1EuzLcRlqD1Y3Sx_kO4TY7pJ/s200/mr__worry_by_percyfan94.jpg" width="155" /></a>Luckily for me, the publisher is on top of things and we’ll
still have books for all the events already scheduled.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
As I told this news to friends and family, they got loud and
frustrated on my behalf. But to all my authors and illustrators out there I
have a word of advice. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Chill.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Sure, plans changing stinks, but my book is still coming
out. Shaking my fist at the sky and cursing the book gods won’t get it printed
any faster. Getting upset doesn’t fix anything (although at times it is easy
and even stress relieving to stomp your feet and grumble).<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXoYZ86uPt4Cf0LfqiHCc_qsWuNjjjoUe1GIP5FTc2gxf9ZsXsGXNTYPX1xHjL3dKTqHTzB7ijE4xafktoI6yCmvVOJ9iE10l-66RxtaD8XeEW9gx7stbU3fXpunheb7MO8XlBH9VLHkV6/s1600/grumble_avatar.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="255" data-original-width="255" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXoYZ86uPt4Cf0LfqiHCc_qsWuNjjjoUe1GIP5FTc2gxf9ZsXsGXNTYPX1xHjL3dKTqHTzB7ijE4xafktoI6yCmvVOJ9iE10l-66RxtaD8XeEW9gx7stbU3fXpunheb7MO8XlBH9VLHkV6/s200/grumble_avatar.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Publishing will be full of delays and changes. At school
visits there will be technical difficulties. There may be bookstore visits with
only one customer or festivals that get rained out. Things happen and you need
to know this going in. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Roll with the changes and mishaps as best you can. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Now I have the opportunity, for all of my April visits, to
let people know they are getting an <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">exclusive</i>.
They can see and purchase Odd Animal ABC’s a month before anyone else. So those
children at the school visits get to feel special. Those bookstore shoppers get
the jump on the rest of the world. That is pretty cool.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPIEQ-Jp9rU5UrbvBfPJnRQHjCiyOFp7_iTgZIDx-2Vbx5BSJG-GbtIPtiwraHikQETu3kxXqJpx6bjWxnYgcy8FgIGilDuQuO3OcUZaUWmqFja3ZwEiWSv16gxjTbXW-K0Ku8eMqqHv0Z/s1600/Little_Miss_Sunshine.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="674" data-original-width="820" height="163" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPIEQ-Jp9rU5UrbvBfPJnRQHjCiyOFp7_iTgZIDx-2Vbx5BSJG-GbtIPtiwraHikQETu3kxXqJpx6bjWxnYgcy8FgIGilDuQuO3OcUZaUWmqFja3ZwEiWSv16gxjTbXW-K0Ku8eMqqHv0Z/s200/Little_Miss_Sunshine.png" width="200" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It is all a matter of perspective.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />June Smallshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00344423860787737601noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-402626745863679958.post-80164685124030148782019-02-03T15:34:00.001-08:002019-02-03T15:38:00.476-08:00So, you have a children’s book coming out…Part Two – Scheduling Author Visits<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMGYMKU0qpEdI81RrHv-zJ60fJUuxfkPmUs20oEjgt3KDPRLVC9NpvuBrhEeW4gRp6Sdb8cw9ilxEtBSmpwYSk2OUf-284O5noMjDsSc3iEhxm4ADEvkSNeHjvNJrjiea_MRu330aC8G-E/s1600/almost-there-sign.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="270" data-original-width="340" height="254" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMGYMKU0qpEdI81RrHv-zJ60fJUuxfkPmUs20oEjgt3KDPRLVC9NpvuBrhEeW4gRp6Sdb8cw9ilxEtBSmpwYSk2OUf-284O5noMjDsSc3iEhxm4ADEvkSNeHjvNJrjiea_MRu330aC8G-E/s320/almost-there-sign.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
You did the work writing…editing…submitting...contracts…editing… and soon
your book will be out in the world.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
At less than two months before my book birthday I’m starting
to work on visits to bookstores, schools, and libraries. But how do you set
them up?<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span id="goog_197778928"></span><span id="goog_197778929"></span><br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Well, you’ve already set up your online platform (even just
a super basic website will do) so people can reach out to you. But you aren’t
famous yet, so people probably aren’t knocking on your door.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXvXu7qsFfx1sYXbpCs4e9JaPqbS56HMf94XSxuNACZe9DMYCm2yfTh2WmBVPl8ROH64jEHjuzZkbWkLh0fwJh0RMICu7Cja0ZkdULxmcIqawSHhQhDcnf3FzpcNVMC16DJ_SSnzachVsh/s1600/2.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="827" data-original-width="636" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXvXu7qsFfx1sYXbpCs4e9JaPqbS56HMf94XSxuNACZe9DMYCm2yfTh2WmBVPl8ROH64jEHjuzZkbWkLh0fwJh0RMICu7Cja0ZkdULxmcIqawSHhQhDcnf3FzpcNVMC16DJ_SSnzachVsh/s320/2.png" width="246" /></a>Your publisher will probably make a flyer and/or give you
marketing information or supplies. Those of you who are self-publishing<o:p></o:p><br />
should make one, or have one
made. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It has all the information:<o:p></o:p><br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Who </b>– Wrote and Illustrated – June Smalls and Claire Sedovic<o:p></o:p><br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>What </b>– Humorous picture book about animals and the alphabet.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>When </b>– Publication Date: 4-2-19<o:p></o:p><br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Where </b>– Can it be purchased – <a href="http://www.bluemanateepress.com/" target="_blank">Blue Manatee Press</a> and <a href="https://www.ipgbook.com/" target="_blank">IPG</a>.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Don’t forget the cover art!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Publishers may also set up some of your author visits. But don't expect them to do all the work. You can and should help with marketing to make your book as successful as possible.<br />
<br />
Start small and start local. Is there a local indie
bookstore in your area? Walk in, introduce yourself, show your flyer, and offer
to do a signing. Many indie stores even work with local schools and may know
who nearby may be interested in visits.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
What about your co-workers at your day job? Oh, one of them
has a sister who teaches first grade? Sweet – get or give contact info.
Networking like this can be organic. Work at your own pace and don’t overbook
or overwork yourself.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Do you live near the schools you attended as a child? Do you
have a child currently in schools with the right demographic for your book?
Reach out, contact their teachers or the librarians. You may want to start with
free or discounted rates until you are comfortable with your presentations and
their value.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Know before you reach out what exactly you are offering. Are you
just doing a reading and signing? Do you have a presentation suitable for a
small class or a whole auditorium? Have you practiced and timed your
presentation, leaving time for questions? Do you use a PowerPoint or props or
have art to share?<br />
<br />
We can break down what all your author visit can entail, but that is a post for another day.<br />
<br />
Once you start a dialogue with your school or store contact,
let them know what you need. Also, be prepared for technology to fail. Stuff
happens and you may have to adapt.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />June Smallshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00344423860787737601noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-402626745863679958.post-53271830439463748422019-01-21T16:04:00.000-08:002019-01-25T14:54:20.289-08:00So, you have a children’s book coming out…Part One: On Line Presence<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">My
debut picture book, Odd Animal ABC's, comes out in just over two months. So what
am I doing to prepare? Well, I’m learning as I go since there is no one perfect
directive on how to sell a bajillion books. Here is what I’m learning about
your Online Presence.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho47d4-4vx5pd8zmHvTWn6o4ajkJKRv1RggTFudz6S42AF6ORRbQP020f3JBTTCH7-iWEu-QcA4GRgRToyUJwQ0BWwI8bWVk7PcibEmhi701o2fhEwW294hrRJAnoSjs30W0zcTC1kkITA/s1600/download+%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="182" data-original-width="277" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho47d4-4vx5pd8zmHvTWn6o4ajkJKRv1RggTFudz6S42AF6ORRbQP020f3JBTTCH7-iWEu-QcA4GRgRToyUJwQ0BWwI8bWVk7PcibEmhi701o2fhEwW294hrRJAnoSjs30W0zcTC1kkITA/s1600/download+%25281%2529.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">First
things first:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">People
need to be able to find you and your books online. You don't need to be a part of every social
media outlet ever created. I’m <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">not</b>
part of all of these, and I’m not promoting any one in particular, but here are
some to look into. Find what works for you or ones that don't need up-keep.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">No matter what you choose to participate in on social media be sure it is appropriate for the age of your readers and professional. Agents and editors may read your posts once they are thinking of working with you. Kids may find them too as they are looking for your next book.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"> </span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"> </span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Amazon Author Page</span></b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> - See your sales, share info like tour events, blogs, etc.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Blog</span></b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> - A creative outlet and a way to connect with others. Blog as
much as you want. There are many blog hosting sites to choose from. Topics? You
can review books, interview peers, share cheesecake recipes and pictures of your
pet. Content is up to you. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Goodreads</span></b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> - You can have a verified Author Page. This takes just a
few minutes to set up and maybe a day to become verified. You can interact
here, but it isn't a requirement. You can review books, make a list of books
you want to read, and track what you’ve already read.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Facebook</span></b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> - Highly interactive. You can chat, post pictures, host
giveaways and more. Again, you should make sure this has content that you are
comfortable with prospective publishing houses seeing. What works for someone
who writes super edgy YA may be very different content than someone writing
sweet and sentimental picture books. (This is also why some writers who span
those two genres have a pen name for one or more of their genres.)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Instagram</span></b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> - Photos, videos, illustrations, and interaction, perfect for
artist who want to connect.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Twitter</span></b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> - Short and sweet (tweet?). Each post only contains a max of
280 characters and/or a fun gif. A few minutes a day can keep you pretty active.
There is a large writing community and hashtags to follow.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Website</span></b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> - Your website doesn't need to be elaborate or expensive.
Clean, easy to navigate, with links for purchasing your books. If you plan to
do school visits make sure there is a way for schools to reach out to you.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKdb6pXQEJObOfWLBVkHkwBuN-XqqrsJgH-eU0ujkgrK1_pUCn-8iUCjpPgywwWLqxi9bvFXr5HkgHRD-zKaBsMoEqHRSjtaErA3I5KYss5ZoT094YRI0XmDvQRT5PZd0daHDgo7ABAlTN/s1600/brand.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="282" data-original-width="425" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKdb6pXQEJObOfWLBVkHkwBuN-XqqrsJgH-eU0ujkgrK1_pUCn-8iUCjpPgywwWLqxi9bvFXr5HkgHRD-zKaBsMoEqHRSjtaErA3I5KYss5ZoT094YRI0XmDvQRT5PZd0daHDgo7ABAlTN/s320/brand.jpg" width="320" /></a><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"></b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">What About Branding</span></b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">?:</span></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">As
a traditionally or self-published author, or illustrator, you are now a
business. Consistent branding helps people recognize your work. Using your book
cover as your avatar? What about using it across all your platforms. Your website name
should be easy to figure out. <a href="http://www.yourauthorname.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #1155cc;">www.YOURAUTHORNAME.com</span></a> if
possible. That way all the folks hunting on Google can find you with ease. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Debut Groups: </span></b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Some writers team up with others in their
genre that are debuting in the same year. These buddies cross promote through
social media, interviews or guest posts on each other’s blogs, and they are
there to stumble through the adventure with you.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><b>Links:</b> Don't forget to set up links so people can purchase your book. Like This: <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Odd-Animal-ABCs-June-Smalls/dp/1936669730/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1545426326&sr=8-1&keywords=odd+animal+abc%27s" target="_blank">Order Now</a> (yes, this is a shameless plug). Make it easy for buyers to access your book. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Again,
I’m not promoting any specific thing here. Maybe you just want a simple website
and nothing more. That is OKAY. Social media is a tool that can help with promoting. NOT a requirement. Don’t force yourself to spend time on social media if you
hate it or if it becomes a burden and takes away from your creative time. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">You don’t
need to try everything all at once. That could overwhelm you and take away any
fun you may have had. Every writer and illustrator is different and finds what
works for them over time. These aren’t the only social media site, there are
more and, who knows, by the time I’m done writing this blog some new form of
social media may have gone viral. Do what works for you and at your own pace.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<br />
Happy writing!June Smallshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00344423860787737601noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-402626745863679958.post-82155637024110329122018-12-29T15:03:00.000-08:002018-12-29T15:05:05.938-08:00Steal TIme<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDg-e2Prh_UwIue5UmnBYVO0Sk_QyKiLSNWTiepHbVt2-zEhflerxwztnPsWFwuqk9qaI0FdPB_nd7AeASw58iSkaAr7-P4fQECth7jTFw0CUY01QjN5_llqvKJ9ygeQPGq7Ck2SblDgtH/s1600/time.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="225" data-original-width="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDg-e2Prh_UwIue5UmnBYVO0Sk_QyKiLSNWTiepHbVt2-zEhflerxwztnPsWFwuqk9qaI0FdPB_nd7AeASw58iSkaAr7-P4fQECth7jTFw0CUY01QjN5_llqvKJ9ygeQPGq7Ck2SblDgtH/s1600/time.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
As 2018 comes to a close and people are talking about their 2019 resolutions, I'm seeing many people who talk about making time for their writing, or lamenting that things got too busy in 2018. I'm going to let you in on a secret. Your time is yours, and if you can't make time - you should steal it.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbY1X9oYe_pid4nMKXTzhFCYTHDC35n8N95hT2PMgwxDTaR113Sl7xJ1gmZasEzHCjQHgkGlxS-jKVssUUKWBN1ArOwBGu27lYoaTExsPip3M-83fEbvCd0zAy6wu12tAvhUcrOYJ8mOfa/s1600/Annotation+2018-12-29+175527.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="179" data-original-width="126" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbY1X9oYe_pid4nMKXTzhFCYTHDC35n8N95hT2PMgwxDTaR113Sl7xJ1gmZasEzHCjQHgkGlxS-jKVssUUKWBN1ArOwBGu27lYoaTExsPip3M-83fEbvCd0zAy6wu12tAvhUcrOYJ8mOfa/s1600/Annotation+2018-12-29+175527.jpg" /></a>Little bits add up like drops of water to fill a glass.<br />
<br />
Grab notebooks. One for your purse or backpack, one for your kitchen, one for your car. Don't forget that your phone is a handy tool.<br />
<br />
When an idea for that perfect character name pops into your head, text it to yourself. Only takes 1 minute.<br />
<br />
When you are sitting in your car at your kids practice waiting for them to find their other shoe - grab that notebook and jot down some plot points. Another 5 minutes stolen back for your writing.<br />
<br />
Oh, are you trapped at the car place getting your oil changed? Where are the pens? Here is 20 minutes to work on dialogue between your two main characters.<br />
<br />
Lunch break? 30 minutes to use your smart phone to research owls and jot down all of that gross stuff about pellets while eating at your favorite spot. (For the squeamish maybe swap pellet research with that oil change dialogue writing.)<br />
<br />
Don't feel guilty when the family is fed and you say, "I'm going to go write for 20 or 30 minutes. Entertain yourselves." (This may be harder for those with super young kids, but do what you can)<br />
<br />
There is also a 5 am writers club I see on Twitter. I won't lie - I'm not a morning person and probably won't ever do this one. But it may work for you! If 5 am doesn't work, what about waking up just 20 minutes early?<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6TNIFv7ArFFqcFKKW-dyXfAeqoysMQAzxKISC0YFwNT0SM0F0nx4wjP7HjAxA9NA76cEtcO_4zqMMVuhIUKUJvszOZTKpl-t5GHaTaWCslT4J2PVIwWP4f219MkaeC8prhI1LrjFbKyV-/s1600/huge.14.74529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="402" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6TNIFv7ArFFqcFKKW-dyXfAeqoysMQAzxKISC0YFwNT0SM0F0nx4wjP7HjAxA9NA76cEtcO_4zqMMVuhIUKUJvszOZTKpl-t5GHaTaWCslT4J2PVIwWP4f219MkaeC8prhI1LrjFbKyV-/s200/huge.14.74529.JPG" width="178" /></a>If your goal this year is to write more then go for it. Even if it is only 5 minutes or 10 minutes here or there. You don't have to write every single day if it doesn't work for you, but you do need to write. Writing is writing whether it is using a pencil, typing on a computer, or using your smart phone.<br />
<br />
Don't forget to make time/steal time to read as well. It is market research that is vital to your trade.<br />
<br />
Best of luck for a healthy, happy, and productive new year!June Smallshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00344423860787737601noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-402626745863679958.post-23390048109542920792018-10-23T15:32:00.000-07:002018-10-23T15:32:26.592-07:00Agents, Inspiration, and Sales, Oh My!A while back I posted about how I got my agent. It came down to a combo of good timing, her #MSWL post (which really summed up the type of MS I was just sending out to agents), and just really jiving well with each other.<br />
<br />
While we all know Agents sell your work and cheer you on, sometimes they are your source for inspiration. <br /><br />Back on International Woman's Day, March 8, 2018, Rebecca shot a simple tweet my way.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_C3LVBwpP3iDwxB766O1Mi7Lt_jo4uz2hfHdDectcct1dAT7D0dEjuFJMMh3-MzT4_4OfJ2SxiZcKrCKbGcAYzJ5Lbv-C-bX6nsrT90j7_vIGFALgh9boYpUh2oFoOZ95_qs-Sp1cuqd_/s1600/Screenshot+%25282%2529.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="738" data-original-width="648" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_C3LVBwpP3iDwxB766O1Mi7Lt_jo4uz2hfHdDectcct1dAT7D0dEjuFJMMh3-MzT4_4OfJ2SxiZcKrCKbGcAYzJ5Lbv-C-bX6nsrT90j7_vIGFALgh9boYpUh2oFoOZ95_qs-Sp1cuqd_/s320/Screenshot+%25282%2529.png" width="280" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Of course I said, "I love elephants!" and we had a fun little back and forth where, like all highly evolved creatures, we spoke in GIFS and pictures.</div>
<div style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiElefg2F71nMn_kvFHiXiZZ9HTzXvsLUGTwo7tC22ZVUTrxh6q2EnNe1J1itLWXs7IMVp4mnkoeT977SG3yfdW6bevLCbfF-_UEv6rGk5mF4a4HvZI4OhtjTNMn3w4JOjsSbHKLynm1KIa/s1600/Screenshot+%25285%2529.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="781" data-original-width="637" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiElefg2F71nMn_kvFHiXiZZ9HTzXvsLUGTwo7tC22ZVUTrxh6q2EnNe1J1itLWXs7IMVp4mnkoeT977SG3yfdW6bevLCbfF-_UEv6rGk5mF4a4HvZI4OhtjTNMn3w4JOjsSbHKLynm1KIa/s320/Screenshot+%25285%2529.png" width="260" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPQjOlTOqLpTsZ2pJXyQBI_g5PXi-pLWDDKKWee7s3fbGuk0M_4QZh1hI5yXS6LPHtV9z0f5D28JhYF2_1GsNewQHMOlQH04VdTtSx0AsSQ3sNskpziv8VHIXSnsaO2wUbsA6LZ57_42-S/s1600/Screenshot+%25286%2529.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="882" data-original-width="635" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPQjOlTOqLpTsZ2pJXyQBI_g5PXi-pLWDDKKWee7s3fbGuk0M_4QZh1hI5yXS6LPHtV9z0f5D28JhYF2_1GsNewQHMOlQH04VdTtSx0AsSQ3sNskpziv8VHIXSnsaO2wUbsA6LZ57_42-S/s320/Screenshot+%25286%2529.png" width="230" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
But now I had a problem. I couldn't get this idea out of my head. Like I'd told my agent, I'd done a good amount of research on elephants already for a possible Chapter Book Series. I even went to meet one and interview a caretaker. But did I have enough info? I had only done generic research and it was mostly about captive elephants. Was there a solid story here?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I couldn't stop thinking about the elephant I met, the elephant matriarch, and their beautiful and complex family structure. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
On March 12th, 2018 I emailed my agent a REALLY rough draft and asked, <span style="background-color: #d9d2e9;">"Should I pursue this further?"</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Her response was simply, <span style="background-color: #cfe2f3;">"YES!!! Please pursue this !!!! :-)"</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
So I put everything else I was working on to the side, stayed up way too late watching elephants on the internet, Animal Planet, Net Geo, pulling every elephant book off the shelf at my library and pulling out all my old notes. After fast tracking it to my critique buddies I gave my agent on April 12th. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I was so attached to this piece. I lost sleep over it. I reached out to trusts in Africa to have it vetted. I was terrified that she'd say it was all wrong. (Not because she is mean or harsh, but every writer worries their stuff is crap at some point, right?)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
She read it on April 16th. This is what I got back.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<span style="background-color: #cfe2f3;">OH MY GOSH THIS IS AMAZING AND IT'S EXACTLEY WHAT I WAS WANTING WHEN I SHARED THAT PICTURE WITH YOU!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Okay, I'm done writing</span> <br />
<br />
We sent it on an exclusive to an editor who ultimately didn't offer. Then we sent it on its first round of submissions. <br />
<br />
Friday, August 3rd, 2018 it went out. <br />
<br />
Tuesday the 7th we had interest and they wanted to call and speak with me. Within a month we had another editor who wanted a call. We received multiple offers but we chose to publish with <a href="https://www.familius.com/" target="_blank">Familius.</a><br />
That they offered is still a little shocking since I'd never spoken with an editor or publisher on the phone so I nervous giggled for half of the conversation and forgot the English language a few times. Thankfully they still loved SHE LEADS. (Whether or not they think I'm nuttier than a peanut shell... we can't be sure.)<br />
<br />
I signed the contract on Friday, September 14th. Six months after my Agent playfully pitched me an idea on twitter. <br />
<br />
Agents are more than the person who can get your MS seen at big houses. They are more than a contract translator. They are friends and inspiration and cheerleaders and editors and I for one am thankful!<br />
<br />
DISCLAIMER FOR WRITERS AND ILLUSTRATORS: <u>This is not a normal timeframe! Six months is ridiculously fast!!!</u> It took me about three years to sell my first picture book. I've been seriously writing for two to three years prior to that.<br />
<br />
SHE LEADS: THE ELEPHANT MATRIARCH will be published in Spring, 2020 by <a href="https://www.familius.com/" target="_blank">Familius</a>. <br />
<br />
<br />
June Smallshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00344423860787737601noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-402626745863679958.post-36919373988391746412018-04-21T05:56:00.002-07:002019-02-04T15:25:20.051-08:00How I Got My Agent<div class="MsoNormal">
So, obviously I am not a great blogger. BUT I have spent the past year really buckling down on my writing. I’ve finished a middle grade fantasy manuscript, polished a number of my picture books, and GOT AN AGENT! But wait, there’s more. I have a picture book under contract with <a href="http://www.bluemanateepress.com/" target="_blank">Blue Manatee Press!</a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I’ve been working towards traditional publication for 5 years. I’ve grown each and every year. <u></u><u></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Starting with preachy picture books with long word counts, I didn’t get very far. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I joined SCBWI. Seriously, if you write for kids and want to be a part of a large tribe with education, comradery, and networking, then you should look into <a href="https://www.scbwi.org/" target="_blank">The Society of Children’s Book writers and Illustrators</a>.<u></u><u></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So I started going to conferences. I met others like me. I met agents and editors and had critiques. I attended classes, webinars, and workshops. I grew as a writer.<u></u><u></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
At an SCBWI Critique Fest I met my in person critique group. They have been invaluable in helping me hone my skills, question my characters motivation, and most of all, grow as a writer. Recently I've also joined online critique groups. <u></u><u></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ09EddYtpphWHMyOG9akKBtSrSVzARGFrPV7I3H2R4s-SRAbqdogy1XF14aQE8OJFwsuOjXO9ndN68VmGHebh9Cp80i5BAYl-8i0pP4o0pxQVLFkkTgNB3TuICAp45FdX0Eyaw9FX1NaO/s1600/DSC_0183.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ09EddYtpphWHMyOG9akKBtSrSVzARGFrPV7I3H2R4s-SRAbqdogy1XF14aQE8OJFwsuOjXO9ndN68VmGHebh9Cp80i5BAYl-8i0pP4o0pxQVLFkkTgNB3TuICAp45FdX0Eyaw9FX1NaO/s200/DSC_0183.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Highlights Foundation Retreat cabins</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
At a <a href="http://www.highlightsfoundation.org/" target="_blank">Highlights Foundation</a> Retreat I really broke down my works, focused on word choice, and page turns and… did yoga and went on hikes and had the best butter I’ve ever eaten in my life… and I grew as a writer (and maybe as a person. I couldn’t stop eating the butter.)<u></u><u></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I’d become confident in my writing. I got some likes in Twitter contests, my percentage of personal rejections grew, I applied for, but did not win mentorships, and finally I had some interest from an editor. I reached out to the agents who were currently reviewing my work in their slush piles and from some requests to inform them I had a contract in hand.<u></u><u></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I received multiple offers and the decision wasn’t as easy as I thought it would be. There is a ton of pressure and doubt that I think plagues many writers. But the enthusiasm and connection with one agent in particular was too great to ignore. I’m proud to announce I’m represented by Rebecca Angus of Golden Wheat Literary. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I had submitted to Rebecca after seeing her #MSWL about creative non-fiction. She’s already negotiating contracts and guiding me along the process. We already have a second manuscript under review. I hope together we sell a bajillion books and make readers happy.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I want to make it clear. The path was long and ultimately I was discovered in a slush pile. But every path is different and there is no one way to be a writer or to become traditionally published. Just keep pushing and growing as a writer.<u></u><u></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u></u> <img alt="" class="media-image" data-height="447" data-width="976" height="291" src="https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DZzYY2-VoAATtEs.jpg:large" style="margin-top: 0px;" width="640" /></div>
June Smallshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00344423860787737601noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-402626745863679958.post-8038519047617062182017-01-02T06:00:00.001-08:002017-01-02T06:01:05.926-08:00Happy New Year 2017<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir2qUJ6xns4OvAdodpuw-jJcztlyn14BvGJKLsrSPFD_mMP9L178aOxe6e-MUpk6moYysTYUOp2YpU-JfTcRcgrDI4WWGL-DSBbwFCMBSDXDV91Uolt4CEi02HWJJL_wbYb4O1ZrKhd30Y/s1600/Happy-New-Year-Image-New-2017-Poster.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir2qUJ6xns4OvAdodpuw-jJcztlyn14BvGJKLsrSPFD_mMP9L178aOxe6e-MUpk6moYysTYUOp2YpU-JfTcRcgrDI4WWGL-DSBbwFCMBSDXDV91Uolt4CEi02HWJJL_wbYb4O1ZrKhd30Y/s320/Happy-New-Year-Image-New-2017-Poster.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
I'm here to say goodbye to 2016 and welcome 2017. <br />
<br />
This year I want all you writers to make realistic resolutions.<br />
<br />
Write more.<br />
Write without distractions.<br />
Write without fear.<br />
Write with your heart.<br />
REVISE, REVISE, REVISE.<br />
REVISE.<br />
<br />
Yes, it is a lovely thought to say, "This year my resolution is to become a published author." Unless you are self publishing there are too many things out of your control. <br />
<br />
This year I hope to polish, revise, write, research. All of which are in my control. Patience, focus, and drive are within my control. Dedication is within my control. <br />
<br />
Don't beat yourselves up with things don't go to plan. This business is subjective and slow, which is difficult for us to grasp in a time of instant gratification. <br />
<br />
I wish everyone a productive new year. I wish you inspiration. I wish you peace.<br />
<br />
Happy New Year! Happy Writing!<br />
<br />
<br />June Smallshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00344423860787737601noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-402626745863679958.post-25901688131334219292016-11-14T17:42:00.001-08:002016-11-14T17:44:06.963-08:00Guest Post by Picture Book Author Julie Murphy<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span lang="EN-AU">SPECIAL GUEST! I’m
ecstatic that I have a guest post from picture book author Julie Murphy about
her latest book <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Gilly’s Treasures</i>.
Take it away Julie.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaFL0S6-GSk8QClx-t6DvbLEKDVNmYSPV_EYpZpb3UW9WI3lXsH7w1cFF2TWrlLhBrGEJ7svezmgA5-NC3ER0F9CRAe6ukizZjbJZB0V8bBelsECD_H3ErwZKHW5fW_ruCobiWDNTHXyxg/s1600/Julie+Murphy.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaFL0S6-GSk8QClx-t6DvbLEKDVNmYSPV_EYpZpb3UW9WI3lXsH7w1cFF2TWrlLhBrGEJ7svezmgA5-NC3ER0F9CRAe6ukizZjbJZB0V8bBelsECD_H3ErwZKHW5fW_ruCobiWDNTHXyxg/s320/Julie+Murphy.png" width="180" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span lang="EN-AU"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span lang="EN-AU">Hi, June, and
thanks for hosting me on your blog to help celebrate the October 11 release of
my picture book for children (4-8), <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Gilly’s
Treasures</i>.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span lang="EN-AU">Writers often see
the advice, “write about what you know”. I have always loved the beach and often
spend my holidays there, so it was natural to write a story set at the beach. And
that story evolved into <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Gilly’s Treasures</i>.
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5M2SOJPEG7F94in_AdLs2NszaWRQPU4Bd0qE_EGl4tszdnnC_0HI-TJ_BdxQZH2IqV0jTocDSNhFvlPcPhVk3PHr37wETxcWvn7r84dO6QENzHJ0EqK6ExsW9x01-0UU1IwaS72jlXOtp/s1600/Gilly%2527s+Treasures.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="256" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5M2SOJPEG7F94in_AdLs2NszaWRQPU4Bd0qE_EGl4tszdnnC_0HI-TJ_BdxQZH2IqV0jTocDSNhFvlPcPhVk3PHr37wETxcWvn7r84dO6QENzHJ0EqK6ExsW9x01-0UU1IwaS72jlXOtp/s320/Gilly%2527s+Treasures.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span lang="EN-AU"><o:p></o:p></span> </div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span lang="EN-AU">One of my favorite
books as a child was <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Over</i></st1:placename><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"> <st1:placetype w:st="on">Sea</st1:placetype></i></st1:place><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">, Under Stone</i> by Susan Cooper. I loved
it so much that I still dream of visiting <st1:city w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Cornwall</st1:place></st1:city>
one day, where the story is set. And of course, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Jonathan Livingstone Seagull</i> is a story for all ages. Contemporary
children’s books set at the sea that I love are <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Magic Beach</i> by Alison Lester (fiction), <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Tanglewood</i> by Margaret Wild and Vivienne Goodman (fiction), and <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">When Elephants Lived in the Sea</i> by Jane
Godwin & Vincent Agostino (creative non-fiction).<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8j1bAQaCCDhFt2cfFkYUFMrDBeIMfVe5Qm3Ecjme7R_XqtY7PUbQ5O8rs_OjzBV1Mna_nyVhBYVCkMdHbV3b1sLxIT18NGvEMnAop4de-UteLye6SpaKK5VpWzcFaQlzMlFSwYhlqNTjY/s1600/snorkle.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8j1bAQaCCDhFt2cfFkYUFMrDBeIMfVe5Qm3Ecjme7R_XqtY7PUbQ5O8rs_OjzBV1Mna_nyVhBYVCkMdHbV3b1sLxIT18NGvEMnAop4de-UteLye6SpaKK5VpWzcFaQlzMlFSwYhlqNTjY/s320/snorkle.png" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-AU">My daughter and I loved snorkeling at the <st1:place w:st="on">Great Barrier Reef</st1:place></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span lang="EN-AU">My husband,
daughter and I still often visit the coast for our holidays. We have quite a
few gorgeous natural places within a days’ drive. Plus we are very fortunate to
have visited some more distant places, such as the Great Barrier Reef, and Ningaloo
Reef in north-Western <st1:country-region w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Australia</st1:place></st1:country-region>
where we saw green turtles!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8j1bAQaCCDhFt2cfFkYUFMrDBeIMfVe5Qm3Ecjme7R_XqtY7PUbQ5O8rs_OjzBV1Mna_nyVhBYVCkMdHbV3b1sLxIT18NGvEMnAop4de-UteLye6SpaKK5VpWzcFaQlzMlFSwYhlqNTjY/s1600/snorkle.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8j1bAQaCCDhFt2cfFkYUFMrDBeIMfVe5Qm3Ecjme7R_XqtY7PUbQ5O8rs_OjzBV1Mna_nyVhBYVCkMdHbV3b1sLxIT18NGvEMnAop4de-UteLye6SpaKK5VpWzcFaQlzMlFSwYhlqNTjY/s1600/snorkle.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> </a><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8j1bAQaCCDhFt2cfFkYUFMrDBeIMfVe5Qm3Ecjme7R_XqtY7PUbQ5O8rs_OjzBV1Mna_nyVhBYVCkMdHbV3b1sLxIT18NGvEMnAop4de-UteLye6SpaKK5VpWzcFaQlzMlFSwYhlqNTjY/s1600/snorkle.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> </a><br />
<span lang="EN-AU"></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span lang="EN-AU"><st1:place w:st="on"></st1:place> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span lang="EN-AU"></span> </div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJSrB-4LA4XNzXClZvA2UAYODnn6eRsgSEbD0wyFEJPneP0BJKFpqhySQ7qBz0_CgagctGiH0QAia9pC42WHj8YoD6DMgRm4QkJkKrpQYdHUQeLEc3RaehS2x8taJiJ5AoJ15rbq21IG41/s1600/Sea+Turtle.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJSrB-4LA4XNzXClZvA2UAYODnn6eRsgSEbD0wyFEJPneP0BJKFpqhySQ7qBz0_CgagctGiH0QAia9pC42WHj8YoD6DMgRm4QkJkKrpQYdHUQeLEc3RaehS2x8taJiJ5AoJ15rbq21IG41/s320/Sea+Turtle.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-AU">One of the green turtles we saw at Ningaloo Reef</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span lang="EN-AU"></span> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span lang="EN-AU"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span lang="EN-AU"></span> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span lang="EN-AU"></span> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span lang="EN-AU"></span> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span lang="EN-AU"></span> </div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span lang="EN-AU"></span> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span lang="EN-AU"></span> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span lang="EN-AU"></span> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span lang="EN-AU">I love animals so,
after school, I trained as a zoologist before working as a zookeeper for a
decade. It wasn’t until I left that job to have a baby that I became immersed
in the wonderful world of children’s books – both as a reader and a writer. My
love of picture books really took over from that point. Many of my favourite
picture books are about animals, as well as the ones I write.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span lang="EN-AU">I have been
writing picture books for about a decade. My training in zoology helped me get
a foot in the door with work-for-hire projects, which I wrote to specific
briefs provided by the publishers. Most are non-fiction books about animals,
but it is only by chance that many are also about the sea. Ocean Animal
Adaptations, Coral Reefs Matter, and Anglerfish are just a few examples.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span lang="EN-AU"></span> </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVYZeGJxk_x24yBHRjHrOigUT_pOfN3O-HaDApo3JDhpirVptuSh1y4iZPHylD8chzjtlVGqnMMtYNQKh-FTsnNCHj9tX7bhH5RSZXGikgIkKfMnEvOTFKDUrCQUYCGJadEdqbQp8UcQJJ/s1600/Angler.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVYZeGJxk_x24yBHRjHrOigUT_pOfN3O-HaDApo3JDhpirVptuSh1y4iZPHylD8chzjtlVGqnMMtYNQKh-FTsnNCHj9tX7bhH5RSZXGikgIkKfMnEvOTFKDUrCQUYCGJadEdqbQp8UcQJJ/s200/Angler.png" width="153" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFmV3YZpY1VUIvy-eBZ2eZe5xVJxtkSRcTovMWgxOvYxQ5bcJJI3J2UP5f7atjbX4ZcDebbgJOZKrZi46vgx9DRUH_mWbq9TCSvahyv17EslZ3va7NWWLW7VGjH6zQgcAZ-WF2gFFiM-px/s1600/Ocean.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFmV3YZpY1VUIvy-eBZ2eZe5xVJxtkSRcTovMWgxOvYxQ5bcJJI3J2UP5f7atjbX4ZcDebbgJOZKrZi46vgx9DRUH_mWbq9TCSvahyv17EslZ3va7NWWLW7VGjH6zQgcAZ-WF2gFFiM-px/s200/Ocean.png" width="170" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr3IA_uOWciRlmaKS2QBFTN6l3I5H66b7nrS1Wrk9pRVw7ijE7gx-2K9FA6NGEeqxyOWLehmOSCWKgJe8BULdEOhFcP2vk_YeRb89j-csoyWSqRJZjXahw9CHHh2wSFVj4LeazwE2KONYa/s1600/Coral.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr3IA_uOWciRlmaKS2QBFTN6l3I5H66b7nrS1Wrk9pRVw7ijE7gx-2K9FA6NGEeqxyOWLehmOSCWKgJe8BULdEOhFcP2vk_YeRb89j-csoyWSqRJZjXahw9CHHh2wSFVj4LeazwE2KONYa/s200/Coral.png" width="155" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span lang="EN-AU"><o:p></o:p></span> </div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span lang="EN-AU">I am proud of my
non-fiction books, but I must admit to being extra excited to welcome <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Gilly’s Treasures</i> into the world. It is
my first fiction picture book, and began as my own idea (rather than to a
publisher’s brief). With the feel of a traditional children’s fable, it tells
the story of Gilly; a seagull who is so busy finding pretty, shiny things at
the seaside that he forgets everything else – even to eat! Thankfully, with a
little help from his partner, Swoop, he eventually discovers what really
matters most to him. Illustrator Jay Fontano has done a wonderful job bringing
Gilly and Swoop to life, and balancing my fable-like story with fun, friendly
illustrations. I especially love the new character he introduced - a cute
little crab who children will love spotting on each page.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span lang="EN-AU">I hope that
children who read <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Gilly’s Treasures</i>
will want to visit the beach and another natural places for themselves, and
maybe find a treasure or two of their own. And it might even spawn a
conversation about what they think is most important in their own lives.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span lang="EN-AU">I think it is
important for children to visit natural places. It gives them a chance to
unplug from their devices, slow down, breathe the fresh air, and learn something
about the real world. Who doesn’t find nature relaxing? Even a back yard or
local park will do the trick. I think it not only benefits the child, but also
conservation because kids will be more likely to look after what they know and
care about.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif0-1q4btLNXRdso1Mrd_AVEAgusgyuXY4EMTV9VOk70-qCYZMnow0csIyhjkDMg6PSENQZRFHw-IRdsx7p8CQRAZiRVEwOgr_NmakyRe2NLKikvQzL5q3gjIfnhpEh0xspBddH4lN56V-/s1600/BeachExplorer2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif0-1q4btLNXRdso1Mrd_AVEAgusgyuXY4EMTV9VOk70-qCYZMnow0csIyhjkDMg6PSENQZRFHw-IRdsx7p8CQRAZiRVEwOgr_NmakyRe2NLKikvQzL5q3gjIfnhpEh0xspBddH4lN56V-/s320/BeachExplorer2.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-AU">My daughter (3) has always loved exploring the beach.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span lang="EN-AU"><o:p></o:p></span> </div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span lang="EN-AU"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span lang="EN-AU"><o:p>Where to learn more about Julie and her books?</o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span lang="EN-AU">Julie’s web site –
<a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&q=http://www.juliemurphybooks.com.au/&source=gmail&ust=1479087226994000&usg=AFQjCNFSJ1imYV8eYWBqCSa9B54xFpaRIA" href="http://www.juliemurphybooks.com.au/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #1155cc;">www.juliemurphybooks.com.au</span></a></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span lang="EN-AU">Twitter - <a href="https://twitter.com/juliekidsbooks"><span style="color: blue;">https://twitter.com/juliekidsbooks</span></a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span lang="EN-AU">Facebook page with
book preview - <a href="http://www.facebook.com/GILLYSTREASURES"><span style="color: blue;">www.facebook.com/GILLYSTREASURES</span></a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span lang="EN-AU"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span lang="EN-AU"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span lang="EN-AU">Gilly’s Treasures</span></i><span lang="EN-AU"> is available from many
on-line book stores, including Cedar Fort’s sales page, Books & Things (free
for most parts of the <st1:country-region w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">USA</st1:place></st1:country-region>):
<a href="http://www.booksandthings.com/"><span style="color: blue;">www.booksandthings.com</span></a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span lang="EN-AU"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
</div>
June Smallshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00344423860787737601noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-402626745863679958.post-17581122510680091212016-11-06T11:23:00.001-08:002016-11-06T11:27:03.254-08:00Concept to Completion: Librarian Matthew Winner<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">So we’ve come to the end of the series from Concept to
Completion. The part where someone with money (adults) buys our books for
readers (mostly kids). The people with more experience than any other when it
comes to getting books into the hands of a young reader is a librarian. I’d
like to welcome Matthew Winner, Elementary Librarian, Podcast Host, Author, and
super nice guy.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3938NC2LK5GoM66F4YDouHE6bT39HU-es04DXsZ4LrNtSDs2w-jbfTgilkVjSC0tKNhVYyfyxUikJwIY08ucmTXQ0zm9EZ_N5Xbrc0gf2zvTjudITxaHY5e5sC0m5skXPGvi8169KSklR/s1600/Matthew+Winner.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3938NC2LK5GoM66F4YDouHE6bT39HU-es04DXsZ4LrNtSDs2w-jbfTgilkVjSC0tKNhVYyfyxUikJwIY08ucmTXQ0zm9EZ_N5Xbrc0gf2zvTjudITxaHY5e5sC0m5skXPGvi8169KSklR/s320/Matthew+Winner.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><o:p></o:p></span> </div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">Welcome to the Blog
Matthew. So why did you and how did you become a librarian?<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<o:p><span style="font-family: "calibri";"> </span></o:p><span style="font-family: "calibri";">I taught 4th grade as a general educator for a few years,
but began work right away on my Master's in School Library Media after being
inspired by the school librarian where I taught. I became a school librarian
soon after when a nearby school had a position open and I felt the calling to
step out beyond the classroom into a role that served the whole school. It's
been a great career so far and there's not much better than watching readers
grow and championing global citizenship through books, authors, literacy, and
technology. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<o:p><span style="font-family: "calibri";"> </span></o:p><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">How do you stay on
top of what to purchase for your library? There are so many choices.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">I read a lot. Mostly I'm reading for my podcasts (All The
Wonders podcast and The Best Book Ever [this week]), but I also read reviews
monthly in School Library Journal and daily across various library a teacher
blogs. Beyond that, I try to listen really closely to the interests of our
students and the needs of our teachers when selecting materials for our
library.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">How do you match up
books to readers?<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS1l8MD9YFvjlmNWrLq8lU5KKKkbRYpV674nW98sOR9IJGA4xbc5J7PkONoLHXWRFxh1H4ZA4crFYk0VV_1jFYm7SNx8kRIEJiykIy-xSUea3pRbasFpEt8vKQJ3bMs2aporxSEQl1vmfQ/s1600/Lincoln-School-11+Library.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="261" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS1l8MD9YFvjlmNWrLq8lU5KKKkbRYpV674nW98sOR9IJGA4xbc5J7PkONoLHXWRFxh1H4ZA4crFYk0VV_1jFYm7SNx8kRIEJiykIy-xSUea3pRbasFpEt8vKQJ3bMs2aporxSEQl1vmfQ/s320/Lincoln-School-11+Library.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: "calibri";">Ahh! This is the art of being a school librarian! Knowing
readers, knowing their interests, and knowing the reading level where they feel
most comfortable as a reader as all things I take into consideration when
helping to connect kids with books. Often they are excited to read whatever I'm
excited over or whatever we put on display. I think they've come to trust the
hard work we've put into building a really strong collection, so they know
there are endless excellent choices for them in our library. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<o:p><span style="font-family: "calibri";"> </span></o:p><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">I know I was always
grateful when my librarian handed me a book she thought I’d like! Since you are
also a writer, how does that affect the way you look at books that come into
your library?<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">I'm aware that I don't write for all kids and I acknowledge
that the books in our library were also not written for every single reader. I
know what I like to read aloud and I know what books move me or make me smile
or keep me thinking about them long after I read them aloud. Being a librarian
and reading books aloud as regularly as I do has helped me to understand and
identify those qualities that make good books work so well. As I write I try to
keep in mind those qualities in addition to those readers I see every day. If I
can picture the faces for which I'm writing, I can usually tell if I'm on the
right track.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">Are you ever shocked,
impressed, or amazed at the books kids end up loving?<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<o:p><span style="font-family: "calibri";"> </span></o:p><span style="font-family: "calibri";">I'm amazed by my students every single day. I'm amazed at
their avid reading habits (I was not an avid reader as a child). I'm impressed
that they read and retain as much as they do (I have memories of the emotions I
felt reading books, but not so much of the stories themselves). I wouldn't say
I'm shocked by what books they end up loving, but often I'm taken aback when
they read a story and tell me a personal connection stirred up from reading the
book. Some of the experiences my students have lived already at such a young
age are quite profound. But I'm never ever surprised when they love a book, no
matter what the book is. After all, that book was written for them. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #365f91;"><span style="font-family: "cambria";"></span></span></span><br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #365f91;"><span style="font-family: "cambria";">I'm never ever surprised when they
love a book, no matter what the book is. After all, that book was written for
them.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<o:p><span style="font-family: "calibri";"> </span></o:p></div>
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">What a perfect
thought! What are your top three favorite picture books?<o:p></o:p></span></b><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">My favorites change all the time, but my students would
probably say <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Shh! We Have a Plan!</i> by
Chris Haughton, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Press Here</i> by Herve
Tullet, and <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">A Hungry Lion, or a Dwindling
Assortment of Animals</i> by Lucy Ruth Cummins.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">I love</b> <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">A
Hungry Lion, or a Dwindling Assortment of Animals</i>. So clever. What do you
wish you had in your library? Do you see any holes in the bookshelf that need
to be filled?<o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">We're always in need of more stories depicting diverse
individuals, backgrounds, and experiences, but quite frankly the thing I wish I
had more of in our library is space. We're blessed to have a revolving door of
students visiting us each day, but having more space (and maybe even more time)
would allow us to better serve as a place for the students to call their own.
But if you're in need of picture book ideas, we could use more books featuring
talking boats that enter dance competitions with stories themed around
friendship , acceptance, and navigating the choppy waters of pier pressure.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<o:p><span style="font-family: "calibri";"> </span></o:p><span style="font-family: "calibri";">Okay... that was a long way to go for a joke. But,
seriously? There might be something there! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<o:p><span style="font-family: "calibri";"> </span></o:p><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">Yup, that on was a
long hull… </span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "wingdings"; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;"><span style="mso-char-type: symbol; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">J</span></span><span style="font-family: "calibri";"> What fuels your creative
time? Chocolate, coffee, music?<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">Podcasting fuels my creative time. I scheduled interviews at
least once a week and I find that I think about the things I've talked about
with guests throughout the rest of the week. Being connected with others.
Having a platform to be enthusiastic over their work. Helping others to know
their work matters to a much greater audience than they may realize. That is
what it's all about for me.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Thank you, Matthew,
for joining us. I can’t wait to see more of your podcasts and your future
books!</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">BIO: Matthew Winner is an elementary library media specialist
in Elkridge, Maryland. He is the co-founder and content director of
<a href="http://allthewonders.com/">AllTheWonders.com</a>, a children’s literature website and more, and host of the
All The Wonders podcast, a weekly podcast where Matthew talks to authors,
illustrators, award winners, up-and-comers, and everyone in between. Matthew is
represented by Danielle Smith of Red Fox Literary. For more information,
connect with Matthew on Twitter at @MatthewWinner or online at
<a href="http://matthewcwinner.com/">MatthewCWinner.com</a>.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.allthewonders.com/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="http://www.allthewonders.com/" border="0" height="59" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgp6qvF6Fbb6waJl7i2Vx2cKzQCPvKWHKzUZ81bkTWVYgeYjnfbgL2NW2enWxbo92uis5iW8ErYq8IwMrK2FQjDFeYU_KNdol2eIU0JCgjQ7T-O8ipeyL9pHN-ia2dEG646DOs0kOFS8W1B/s320/Logo_REV_01.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
June Smallshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00344423860787737601noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-402626745863679958.post-40793274011527064892016-11-06T11:23:00.000-08:002016-11-06T11:25:33.476-08:00Concept to Completion: Sales, Publicity, and Marketing<br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">
</span><br />
</span></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So after the
writing, editing, and art are complete there are magical folks that make book
sellers and libraries want to carry your books. The Sales team gets your work
out there.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">
</span><br />
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-size: large;">Publicity and Marketing get people
interested and curious about your book. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-size: large;">
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">
</span><span style="font-size: xx-small;"> </span><br />
<br />
</span></span><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";"><span style="font-size: large;">I imagine they all work their magic
around a cauldron, brewing up the necessary trailers, promos, and swag. </span></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9wlfRRS5UZ_wzlFIJjeUd7g7Srgqfu7P7QHlgmM-RZ-Le_fkmSaMs5Oj2Q2WiArq2omypiPJh1CrmkfZj12ezxSwmI5lDp99XPpgHGuHcD9p8s8DwTngir9WVx08QdwCzkdkggNowt7Cd/s1600/Hocus+Pocus.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9wlfRRS5UZ_wzlFIJjeUd7g7Srgqfu7P7QHlgmM-RZ-Le_fkmSaMs5Oj2Q2WiArq2omypiPJh1CrmkfZj12ezxSwmI5lDp99XPpgHGuHcD9p8s8DwTngir9WVx08QdwCzkdkggNowt7Cd/s1600/Hocus+Pocus.jpg" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-size: large;">Then
they spell the book to make it irresistible. <o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">
</span><br />
</span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJX10GrhXnMICB-3OT0UVnkwkoxd42BGQQJG_dQwu0ez82d9592ZzPN-xaAUOzDq_6m0zyfE5C9efonR0lzOiEW4xa1gObuwSe3ZHmPqjXVKai0V_GxNtOnyQgqjfQ87l4u9q5z9aLlZ4v/s1600/Hocus+Pocus+book.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="224" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJX10GrhXnMICB-3OT0UVnkwkoxd42BGQQJG_dQwu0ez82d9592ZzPN-xaAUOzDq_6m0zyfE5C9efonR0lzOiEW4xa1gObuwSe3ZHmPqjXVKai0V_GxNtOnyQgqjfQ87l4u9q5z9aLlZ4v/s320/Hocus+Pocus+book.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-size: large;">While I was not able to pin anyone
down just yet for an interview (the flying monkeys are working on that for me)
I’m using this post as a place holder. Then we’ll learn the truth from an
insider.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">
</span></span>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<o:p><span style="font-family: "calibri"; font-size: x-small;"> </span></o:p></div>
<span style="font-size: x-small;">
</span></span><br />June Smallshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00344423860787737601noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-402626745863679958.post-16325983058608191332016-09-18T13:34:00.000-07:002017-02-11T15:27:12.515-08:00Concept to Completion: Illustrator<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">Welcome to Reading, Writing, and Reaching for Chocolate. The
next stop on the road from concept to completion of a picture book is the
Illustrator. Today we have an interview with Vanessa Brantley Newton,
Illustrator of <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">My Three Best Friends and
Me, Zulay, The Hula Hoopin’ Queen, </i>and (one of my personal
favorites-literally made me tear up) <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Sewing
Stories. </i>Her most recent illustrations can be seen in <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Mary Had a Little Glam.<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgsYVYHECbrpwikQEPFTNftYurilpxQ8yH87qRgZ2HumHbtu2cMAqh3w9Mlwfr2m8ZHLfZDtZUkvI5bzsyzDy_o4rTT5Ebld6t9XpdAr592SbImaXEnvuSfw7NC4sgmOjgit1YLq4dAUcc/s1600/Vanessa.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgsYVYHECbrpwikQEPFTNftYurilpxQ8yH87qRgZ2HumHbtu2cMAqh3w9Mlwfr2m8ZHLfZDtZUkvI5bzsyzDy_o4rTT5Ebld6t9XpdAr592SbImaXEnvuSfw7NC4sgmOjgit1YLq4dAUcc/s320/Vanessa.png" width="239" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">Thank you for joining
me Vanessa. So let’s start at the beginning. What happens when you get a call
from an art director?<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><span style="color: red;">I really love to hear from my art directors, but of late
some of them I only get to talk to once or twice on the phone and sometimes not
at all.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="color: red;"></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="color: red; font-family: "calibri";">I prefer a phone call instead of emails. Email sometimes can
come across as cold to me. I like to hear the excitement in an art director's
or editor's voice. It helps me to understand what they are looking for as well.
I like to start all of my projects off with a kick off call. Just to get a feel
for who I am going to be working with, what they expect of me and what I in
turn want to express through my work. </span><br />
<span style="color: red; font-family: "calibri";"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><span style="color: red;">So when I get a call from art director,
they basically tell me what the size or specs of the project are. I am asked if
I have any idea of how I will approach the work. If it will be live work
(meaning traditional paint, paper, collage) or will it be digital files. We
talk about building characters for the stories and if it's historically based,
they will sometimes send references and information they have collected to help
in the process. Sometimes all I get it the spec of the project and they leave
me to created sketches and then after the first round of sketches they will
tell me what they would like to see changed and if the author has anything
suggestions they include those as well.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<o:p><span style="font-family: "calibri";"> </span></o:p><span style="font-family: "calibri";"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Do you communicate with
the art director, the editor, or both?</b> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><span style="color: red;">So, some Publishing houses don't have art directors and it's
all left to the editor. I get to work with both and sometimes just one or the
other.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">What is your process
when getting started with a new manuscript?</b><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="color: red; font-family: "calibri";">I am dyslexic and so it takes a while for me to get through
the simplest of stories. I read them to myself and then I have my husband or
daughter or someone read it out loud to me so I can picture it in my head.
Hearing it read out loud is super important for me. It helps me to grasp the
story and the characters or character in the story and what the story feels
like.</span></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">That’s amazing, and
wonderful that your family helps! I like to hear my words aloud by others too, to get a
sense of flow.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">So once you get the
go-ahead from the art director what is your final process?</b> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><span style="color: red;">Every time I start a picture book or middle grade reader,
it's like doing it over the first time every single time for me. Some
illustrators don't have that situation. I do.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I have been at this for years now and still it's like the very first
time every single time LOL! <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="color: red;"></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><span style="color: red;">I usually take a week to just think of how I want to
approach the book. During that week, I start to birth the characters. I look
through magazines and photos. I visit Pinterest and look at children. I go to
Barnes and Noble and watch the children. Collecting information and references
all the while. I am a people watcher and this helps me greatly in my
illustration work. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoqwexpY-3j_tIfm84FsAQErciKjpUqD0ErDGW5DDZdRwiZcy0CvdJi6R14xIu-1MBUImyztZTHwTZBaxCq1bBNdKhEtNeqykWEzP0TfphI6HeExeAwjrKnZ6aw8xR5aL2DOQ1jzyr9Us3/s1600/MHALG+5.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: red;"></span></a><br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhTfnFX8QUKAmIIB7kVEMGxqtLjSVSOH9aoTQmPJ7dJoSopfF00gfPQF97JLlmtgrwvhp8XFQQddV5TwpVgYbGI0dakTYboQ7c1BiPJchzn0onK2YIFuUbgAf5vf_z4hLYa-v6vJr2Kgri/s1600/MHALG+4.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="154" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhTfnFX8QUKAmIIB7kVEMGxqtLjSVSOH9aoTQmPJ7dJoSopfF00gfPQF97JLlmtgrwvhp8XFQQddV5TwpVgYbGI0dakTYboQ7c1BiPJchzn0onK2YIFuUbgAf5vf_z4hLYa-v6vJr2Kgri/s320/MHALG+4.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="color: red;"></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><span style="color: red;">Then I starting working out the story and story boarding and
doing some rough sketches and then they are sent to the publisher and then they
will send them back in a few weeks and then there is usually a second round of
sketches and then when approved I take it all to finish. Even after they are
all finished and colored and collaged, there is still the process of looking
them over and finding anything that isn't working or needs to be adjusted. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="color: red;"></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><span style="color: red;">When everything has been fixed and adjusted it goes to print
for proofing and then F&G's* are sent to me and the author to see what the
first print looks like. Before you know it, a box of book are sitting at your
doorstep. LOL!!<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="color: #0070c0;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">(Note for newbie’s to the
industry-or oldies who don’t do acronyms: F&G means a folded and gathered
or an unbound book. This gives those working on the book the first glimpse of
what the finished product can be. This is the last chance to catch changes that
need to be made before final printing.)<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">What is your favorite
part of the process?</b> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><span style="color: red;">I am just starting to embrace and like the process of
sketching, but my favorite part of all is actually creating the character and
then creating the finishes! So I have two parts that I love.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoqwexpY-3j_tIfm84FsAQErciKjpUqD0ErDGW5DDZdRwiZcy0CvdJi6R14xIu-1MBUImyztZTHwTZBaxCq1bBNdKhEtNeqykWEzP0TfphI6HeExeAwjrKnZ6aw8xR5aL2DOQ1jzyr9Us3/s1600/MHALG+5.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="156" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoqwexpY-3j_tIfm84FsAQErciKjpUqD0ErDGW5DDZdRwiZcy0CvdJi6R14xIu-1MBUImyztZTHwTZBaxCq1bBNdKhEtNeqykWEzP0TfphI6HeExeAwjrKnZ6aw8xR5aL2DOQ1jzyr9Us3/s320/MHALG+5.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<o:p><span style="font-family: "calibri";"> </span></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">As an author-only, I
am so jealous of the creation of the character. I’m can’t wait to see what my
characters look like ‘in person.’ <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What
is the longest and shortest time you’ve worked on a manuscript?</b> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><span style="color: red;">3 months and 3-4 years.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<o:p><span style="font-family: "calibri";"> </span></o:p></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrOUZG9_R3nGNo0nfsohE9inoiiM1s8GtCP2M6RP0cfJbhjGxW0ikPcUs0bcOl19S9I0LSbVXzXZ7_k0jadhqu36YCwdCrOqFLXF4D5VEOpn8zkBuN7RlqdqgXRUjDvZxjTimL1QKpbfdT/s1600/MHALG+6.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="156" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrOUZG9_R3nGNo0nfsohE9inoiiM1s8GtCP2M6RP0cfJbhjGxW0ikPcUs0bcOl19S9I0LSbVXzXZ7_k0jadhqu36YCwdCrOqFLXF4D5VEOpn8zkBuN7RlqdqgXRUjDvZxjTimL1QKpbfdT/s320/MHALG+6.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Do you deal with any
other people within the publishing house? If so, who?</b><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><span style="color: red;">Sometimes when they are wanting to promote the book I will
hear from a publicist for the publisher and they will tell me what they have in
mind to move the book. Such as book festivals, book signings and other events.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<o:p><span style="font-family: "calibri";"> </span></o:p><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Is there anything you
wish authors knew that would make your job easier?</b> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><span style="color: red;">That illustration is a whole other ball of wax. Some
illustrators don't like artist notes, but then there are some of us that do. I
am one of those Illustrators that do. It's when they begin to interfere with
the process that it becomes a problem. I have only had two of those situations.
One was with a publisher and another with a self-published job. Nearly drove me
crazy LOL! Mostly it's a process and sometimes it goes rather quickly and then
sometimes it takes a whole lot longer.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Any advice for
aspiring illustrators?</b> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><span style="color: red;">Hone your gift! Draw everything and every day. Try different
art supplies. The ones that go together and the ones that don't. Be brave and
break the rules and see what comes from it. You may surprise yourself and
others too.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When building a portfolio
only put the things that you are proud of in there. Don't put half done work in
there when you are looking for work. They only want to see what puts a smile on
your face and what you are most proud of. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><span style="color: red;"></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><span style="color: red;">When trying to get a job in
children's pub please put children into your folio. Children, moving, dancing,
bouncing, singing, being kind or being rambunctious! Create characters that
speak to the audience. Give them personality by giving them names and places
that they come from and remember there is never any competition unless you
invite it in. Nobody can do what you do. Your style is your style and nobody
can bring to the creative table what only you can bring so develop your style
and then hone it.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAoK_m2tnjzTNhgEqVuFou7VdGWXG7cGHG4n3_L4ZGhaS9Q-aoPEyghztLhw8fc7JmVfMRZPqGl53xUuhw61H97lq8B1Y-t0FBZwbso3az6wc8TJS-Lqh7qwGHty4rLNtKPl90aIsw5RCL/s1600/MHALG+1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="140" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAoK_m2tnjzTNhgEqVuFou7VdGWXG7cGHG4n3_L4ZGhaS9Q-aoPEyghztLhw8fc7JmVfMRZPqGl53xUuhw61H97lq8B1Y-t0FBZwbso3az6wc8TJS-Lqh7qwGHty4rLNtKPl90aIsw5RCL/s320/MHALG+1.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">What fuels your
creative time? Chocolate, coffee, music?</b> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><span style="color: red;">Music, music and music. Oh my goodness I can't go a day
without music. I listen to a lot of happy music as to why my illustrations are
often happy ones. R and B, Hip Hop or conscious music, gospel, classical, meditative.
It creates an atmosphere for me to work in. Music is like paint to me. I have
different paints for different illustrations and the same goes for my music.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><strong>What wonderful advice and insights. Thank you again for
coming out to the blog, Vanessa. I can’t wait to see what you draw up next.</strong></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"></span> </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">If you'd like to see more of Vanessa's work visit her at <a href="http://painted-words.com/portfolio/vanessa-brantley-newton/">http://painted-words.com/portfolio/vanessa-brantley-newton/</a> or <a href="http://oohlaladesignstudio.blogspot.com/">http://oohlaladesignstudio.blogspot.com/</a>.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
June Smallshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00344423860787737601noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-402626745863679958.post-47080713332251305312016-09-11T11:32:00.000-07:002016-09-11T11:38:18.749-07:00Concept to Completion: Art Director Jim Hoover<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><strong>Next
on our journey following a picture book from concept to completion is the art
director.</strong> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;"></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;"> <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;"></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_rwnkebjyPNLUqTHL7Cw3vZVrqKhxQ1aVieh-ngtvzG7Z-vfSsUeUc0pAvw07LyW-fqwTgN3sGmF8pTb1rhUuFYB_r3mjB6DflM2YIWo6MDB2imIHsqr6bhc7xlK6ckqOMS7dlyhArsux/s1600/Jim+Hoover+Art+Director.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_rwnkebjyPNLUqTHL7Cw3vZVrqKhxQ1aVieh-ngtvzG7Z-vfSsUeUc0pAvw07LyW-fqwTgN3sGmF8pTb1rhUuFYB_r3mjB6DflM2YIWo6MDB2imIHsqr6bhc7xlK6ckqOMS7dlyhArsux/s320/Jim+Hoover+Art+Director.png" width="320" /></span></a></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: center;">
<!--[if gte vml 1]><v:shapetype id="_x0000_t75" coordsize="21600,21600"
o:spt="75" o:preferrelative="t" path="m@4@5l@4@11@9@11@9@5xe" filled="f"
stroked="f">
<v:stroke joinstyle="miter"/>
<v:formulas>
<v:f eqn="if lineDrawn pixelLineWidth 0"/>
<v:f eqn="sum @0 1 0"/>
<v:f eqn="sum 0 0 @1"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @2 1 2"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @3 21600 pixelWidth"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @3 21600 pixelHeight"/>
<v:f eqn="sum @0 0 1"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @6 1 2"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @7 21600 pixelWidth"/>
<v:f eqn="sum @8 21600 0"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @7 21600 pixelHeight"/>
<v:f eqn="sum @10 21600 0"/>
</v:formulas>
<v:path o:extrusionok="f" gradientshapeok="t" o:connecttype="rect"/>
<o:lock v:ext="edit" aspectratio="t"/>
</v:shapetype><v:shape id="Picture_x0020_1" o:spid="_x0000_i1027" type="#_x0000_t75"
alt="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEpWJRvKpLeolRNsXdvm_aOJrkZ_Oq3J72fI36HH1DNdCU0NhGNm_UmqyvULrSKdPtDM-mOirmxLgrlnRwsMtSDp8RfR9aeMy1iqgwWj0ouCr9sLu2pNzhrQLtc7wh6ZkynXwIm9tycu3K/s320/Jim+Hoover+Art+Director.png"
href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEpWJRvKpLeolRNsXdvm_aOJrkZ_Oq3J72fI36HH1DNdCU0NhGNm_UmqyvULrSKdPtDM-mOirmxLgrlnRwsMtSDp8RfR9aeMy1iqgwWj0ouCr9sLu2pNzhrQLtc7wh6ZkynXwIm9tycu3K/s1600/Jim+Hoover+Art+Director.png"
style='width:240pt;height:240pt;visibility:visible;mso-wrap-style:square'
o:button="t">
<v:fill o:detectmouseclick="t"/>
<v:imagedata src="file:///C:\Users\Sumbee\AppData\Local\Temp\msohtmlclip1\01\clip_image001.png"
o:title="Jim%2BHoover%2BArt%2BDirector"/>
</v:shape><![endif]--><!--[if !vml]--><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;"> <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;"></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><strong><span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Joining
us today is Jim Hoover with Viking Books. Jim, thank you so much for being
willing to be a part of this series. </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></strong></span></div>
<strong><span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;"></span></strong><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><strong>Let’s
start at the beginning. What happens when you get a call from, or have a
meeting with, an editor?</strong></span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<span style="color: red; font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt;">I have worked with my team
of editors for many years now, and I am proud to call them my coworkers,
colleagues, and friends. So—often, a meeting isn’t so much ‘called’ as it sort
of morphs from a casual conversation where we turn from shooting the breeze to
“oh, you actually wanted to talk about work. Cool.” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<span style="color: red; font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt;">Other times, someone shows
up at your door with a stack of printouts or proofs, and it’s like “hey. What
did we decide to do about this?” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<span style="color: red; font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt;">“I dunno.” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<span style="color: red; font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt;">“Okay, let’s figure it
out.” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<span style="color: red; font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt;">I truly think the world of
my team and enjoy their company. We love our work, and it is completely
collaborative. I always say that the fun and love we have for our books shows
through in the final package.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We work
hard, but most of the good days we barely notice.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<span style="color: red; font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt;">And like any relationship,
communication is key. If some snafu happens along the way during the process of
a book it almost always boils down to miscommunication.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh9pXeAMSzUUzPVV95TIiLyOJkcf1AZPfEoFlWc_oulCUxDMLYpBlO-fDJS-ZyNqgZaiyLFH_iB0zCYTYiU0fbCFJu0L1RwW99WhF4rHzbfvLfAX95EkLgL3KsiF-9Fpumk7WDHUsXboLf/s1600/Art+Peeps.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh9pXeAMSzUUzPVV95TIiLyOJkcf1AZPfEoFlWc_oulCUxDMLYpBlO-fDJS-ZyNqgZaiyLFH_iB0zCYTYiU0fbCFJu0L1RwW99WhF4rHzbfvLfAX95EkLgL3KsiF-9Fpumk7WDHUsXboLf/s320/Art+Peeps.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxutll4nDetEQdWEtKxQ8fyC3z0doP3yXLe0Js8r0nvM6cuXD9MdmPajr1xGgG0Dt00JAX4zsBqg3ofgjrwMxX-78hsyihiTbCxnCiRe3GOk4njwy5PU-NFUoY8RnyP1qg0ue5DuTncsKy/s1600/Art+Peeps.png"><span style="color: windowtext; mso-no-proof: yes; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;"><!--[if gte vml 1]><v:shape id="Picture_x0020_2" o:spid="_x0000_i1026"
type="#_x0000_t75" alt="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxutll4nDetEQdWEtKxQ8fyC3z0doP3yXLe0Js8r0nvM6cuXD9MdmPajr1xGgG0Dt00JAX4zsBqg3ofgjrwMxX-78hsyihiTbCxnCiRe3GOk4njwy5PU-NFUoY8RnyP1qg0ue5DuTncsKy/s320/Art+Peeps.png"
href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxutll4nDetEQdWEtKxQ8fyC3z0doP3yXLe0Js8r0nvM6cuXD9MdmPajr1xGgG0Dt00JAX4zsBqg3ofgjrwMxX-78hsyihiTbCxnCiRe3GOk4njwy5PU-NFUoY8RnyP1qg0ue5DuTncsKy/s1600/Art+Peeps.png"
style='width:240pt;height:240pt;visibility:visible;mso-wrap-style:square'
o:button="t">
<v:fill o:detectmouseclick="t"/>
<v:imagedata src="file:///C:\Users\Sumbee\AppData\Local\Temp\msohtmlclip1\01\clip_image002.png"
o:title="Art%2BPeeps"/>
</v:shape><![endif]--><!--[if !vml]--><!--[endif]--></span></a><o:p></o:p><br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="color: red; font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Above is a
picture of me holding court with some of my coworker peeps. This is a picture
from a very important meeting where we discussed the end of the last Game of
Thrones season. I’m sure we did real work that day, too. To my right: Maggie
Rosenthal (editorial assistant), Abigail Powers (copyeditor), Mariam Quraishi
(design assistant), Amanda Mustafic (associate publicist), Krista Ahlberg
(copyeditor), Nancy Brennan (associate art director), and Kate Renenr (senior
designer.)</span><span style="color: #500050; font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt;"><strong>Sounds like a wonderful way to work. When working on a picture book do you communicate with
the illustrator, the editor, or both?<o:p></o:p></strong></span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<span style="color: red; font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt;">With both. An art
director’s job is to mediate comments from the editorial, sales and marketing
teams to the illustrator and keep them on task and on time. We usually have a
few ideas of our own, too.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt;"><strong>What is your process when getting
started with a new manuscript?<o:p></o:p></strong></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<span style="color: red; font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt;">It actually still can
surprise me after fifteen years how much the process can shift from one book to
another. But GENERALLY, when I get a manuscript and need to find an
illustrator, I have a few sources that I start with. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<span style="color: red; font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt;">1.) I have a running list
of illustrators that I have either always wanted to work with or am dying to
work with again. Sometimes, it can take YEARS to find just the right (or another)
book to work on. Patience is a virtue on all sides. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<span style="color: red; font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt;">2.) I have a number of
illustration agencies that I have worked with and trust. (I also have agents
that I avoid like the plague.) I will go through their sites and
(re)familiarize myself with their clients, and in many cases, reach out and ask
for recommendations.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<span style="color: red; font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt;">3.) I’ve usually found
someone by this point, but every now and then, I’ll talk to other art directors
and we will recommend folks to each other. Again, we also all have a running
list of whom to avoid.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt;"><strong>I’ll try to stay off the list of
people to avoid. :-) Easy since I’m not an illustrator. What is your favorite part
of the process?<o:p></o:p></strong></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<span style="color: red; font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt;">Oooo, tough one. My
favorite part of the process is probably when I get a few hours to sit with
some good tunes on and just play with type and color. There is this wonderful
‘quiet before the storm’ moment when you are onto an idea for a cover or
something when the whole thing is just YOURS to develop and work with, before
anyone has weighed in on if it works, or needs to change, or just pulls the
whole thing apart and sends you back to the drawing board. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<span style="color: red; font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt;">I’ve lost days chasing an
idea that I am pretty sure won’t make it past the first round of feedback, but
I just want to let it breathe for a bit and enjoy it. Sometimes you can push
through and really find something that’s special.</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwegIy79ZzQinVWAEpb15KKZhvQn3afcmOvYyg04VEu2NgQwLpVu94TcPC_o9kJVcsydqtarlQWRDpM0xAUnfoRIfFq5UQIMNNwACSdSEHlwY3-LuauvdP_ENE1eLE-ve5Mhy1BVpp8mKM/s1600/sisyphus-illustration-640_jpg__640x360_q85_crop.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwegIy79ZzQinVWAEpb15KKZhvQn3afcmOvYyg04VEu2NgQwLpVu94TcPC_o9kJVcsydqtarlQWRDpM0xAUnfoRIfFq5UQIMNNwACSdSEHlwY3-LuauvdP_ENE1eLE-ve5Mhy1BVpp8mKM/s320/sisyphus-illustration-640_jpg__640x360_q85_crop.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt;"><strong>That sounds fantastic. I’m really
seeing that every person on the path for a picture book is wildly creative. So
when is your job finally ‘done’?<o:p></o:p></strong></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<span style="color: red; font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt;">I guess when the book
finally comes in from production as a finished, printed, bound object—that book
is done. Otherwise, I am Sisyphus pushing that big ol’ boulder up the hill.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWJCwD3S2UQxtYpIHb7hrjtCTD8DqIcIkvqLMCC9QUdJHScfBjghQGXsEy8c99X2SMHl04En9cchmHWmorwsTf0zn2BBOyMgXMscmhfoy1XAQU2toUIdi4Zf2KsuCF_Xy-l3nVxlF-uP2d/s1600/sisyphus-illustration-640_jpg__640x360_q85_crop.jpg"><span style="color: blue; font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; text-decoration: none;"><!--[if gte vml 1]><v:shape id="Picture_x0020_3" o:spid="_x0000_i1025"
type="#_x0000_t75" alt="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWJCwD3S2UQxtYpIHb7hrjtCTD8DqIcIkvqLMCC9QUdJHScfBjghQGXsEy8c99X2SMHl04En9cchmHWmorwsTf0zn2BBOyMgXMscmhfoy1XAQU2toUIdi4Zf2KsuCF_Xy-l3nVxlF-uP2d/s320/sisyphus-illustration-640_jpg__640x360_q85_crop.jpg"
href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWJCwD3S2UQxtYpIHb7hrjtCTD8DqIcIkvqLMCC9QUdJHScfBjghQGXsEy8c99X2SMHl04En9cchmHWmorwsTf0zn2BBOyMgXMscmhfoy1XAQU2toUIdi4Zf2KsuCF_Xy-l3nVxlF-uP2d/s1600/sisyphus-illustration-640_jpg__640x360_q85_crop.jpg"
style='width:240pt;height:135pt;visibility:visible;mso-wrap-style:square'
o:button="t">
<v:fill o:detectmouseclick="t"/>
<v:imagedata src="file:///C:\Users\Sumbee\AppData\Local\Temp\msohtmlclip1\01\clip_image003.jpg"
o:title="sisyphus-illustration-640_jpg__640x360_q85_crop"/>
</v:shape><![endif]--><!--[if !vml]--><!--[endif]--></span></a><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span><br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt;"><strong>I think it’s like that at every
phase. There is always ‘one more thing’ we can do, or tweak, or change. Now my
favorite question; what is the longest and shortest time you’ve worked on a
manuscript?<o:p></o:p></strong></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<span style="color: red; font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt;">This really varies in an
old skool hardcover imprint like Viking. We seldom push something through too
fast. I would say the shortest has been five or six months.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>On the flipside of that, I have one project
that I have been working on for three years and it’s STILL not done. I know
editors closing in on FIVE YEARS with some manuscripts. Some books just need
more room to develop and grow than others. One of my favorite
author/illustrators once lamented that she wishes she could do one picture book
a year, and it usually takes her a year and a half, and occasionally two. But
her books are perfect and beautiful. I am a quality over quantity sort of guy.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt;"><strong>Six month to 5 years. That's a pretty big range. Publishing = Patience.</strong></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt;"><strong>Do you deal with any other people
within the publishing house? If so, who?<o:p></o:p></strong></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<span style="color: red; font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt;">Publishing is a team
effort. We work with marketing, sales, publicity, upper management, sales reps
out in the field, authors, estates, stock houses, foundations, sometimes even
spouses. It takes a village to raise a child and a House to make a book.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 24pt 0in 0pt; mso-outline-level: 3; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt;">It takes a village to raise a child and a House to make a book.</span></b><b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; mso-outline-level: 3;">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt;"> <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt;"><strong>Best. Line. EVER.<o:p></o:p></strong></span></div>
<strong></strong><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt;"><strong>Every author needs to know, are
illustration notes evil? This is something we hear conflicting info on.<o:p></o:p></strong></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<span style="color: red; font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt;">Here’s what authors need
to know about working with illustrators on a picture book. Once an illustrator
has been assigned, you both become COAUTHORS. They are going to bring something
to the table that you could not have counted on. Illustrators turn word documents
into living, breathing things. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<span style="color: red; font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt;">So, as you write, breaking
a story down by spread is a great idea (I do know some art directors and
editors that disagree with me here) but breaking down a manuscript by spread
allows you to control the pacing of a story. There are some broad illustration
notes that may be necessary, but beyond these two things, it really is best to
keep illustration notes down to a minimum. This is not something that should be
micromanaged, and it could even work against you in finding an editor.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt;"><strong>Is there anything you wish authors
knew that would make your job easier?<o:p></o:p></strong></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<span style="color: red; font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt;">The biggest frustration is
when an author doesn’t understand that once a publisher is signed up, their
book is no longer their own thing existing in a vacuum. We have teams of people
with decades of experience and direct knowledge of what will do well out in the
market and what won’t. Have faith in the team that has faith in your book.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<h2 align="center" style="margin: 10pt 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #4f81bd;"><span style="font-family: "cambria";">Have faith in the team that has faith in your book.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></h2>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt;"><strong>No I in team. Check.<o:p></o:p></strong></span></div>
<strong></strong><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt;"><strong>Is there anything you wish
illustrators knew that would make your job easier?<o:p></o:p></strong></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<span style="color: red; font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt;">Deadlines are SO
important. There is always a few days or even a week or two grace period, but
some illustrators will blow deadlines by MONTHS. Understand that you are
shooting yourself and the book in the foot the further away you get from an
agreed-upon deadline.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt;"><strong>*Double checks calendar to see if
I’m late for anything.* No, I’m safe for now. What fuels your creative
time? Chocolate, coffee, music?<o:p></o:p></strong></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<span style="color: red; font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt;">Are you a mind reader? :o)
This is the holy trinity of my creative fuel. Sometimes I get caught dancing in
my chair while making boring corrections to a novel interior, and I keep a
chocolate stash in my top drawer, but shhh! Don’t tell anyone!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt;"><strong>Shh. Don’t blow my mind reading
secret. And thank you for that image. Now I’m going to imagine everyone
chair dancing as they work on their books. :-P </strong></span></div>
<strong></strong><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt;"><strong>Thank you again Jim for sharing your
part in the publishing journey. Thank you for what you do! And P.S. I’m totally snagging some chocolate if I ever come visit your office.<o:p></o:p></strong></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3oSNP-lmACdP25xEEnyUUGjEf-B6GA-5agQMXRmq8l8hCPpoDpi5cfJJF1fNlLkGnQiV52aviIqCNN64w-t67X1c-ONqQexrCpe-fdnPlrZ0LB-rbefcKgIHIY57iyJu4kgCktmHLq9id/s1600/Viking.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3oSNP-lmACdP25xEEnyUUGjEf-B6GA-5agQMXRmq8l8hCPpoDpi5cfJJF1fNlLkGnQiV52aviIqCNN64w-t67X1c-ONqQexrCpe-fdnPlrZ0LB-rbefcKgIHIY57iyJu4kgCktmHLq9id/s200/Viking.jpg" width="200" /></a><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt;">For you readers who want to know more
about Viking follow them on Twitter at:<span style="color: red;"> <a href="https://twitter.com/VikingChildrens"><span style="color: blue;">https://twitter.com/VikingChildrens</span></a></span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt;">Or find them on the web at: <span style="color: red;"><a href="http://penguinrandomhouse.com/"><span style="color: blue;">penguinrandomhouse.com</span></a></span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="color: #555555; font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt;">and</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt;"><a href="http://www.penguin.com/meet/publishers/vikingbooks/"><span style="color: blue;">http://www.penguin.com/meet/publishers/vikingbooks/</span></a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
June Smallshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00344423860787737601noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-402626745863679958.post-77897579489220367742016-09-02T17:53:00.001-07:002016-09-02T17:59:35.819-07:00Concept to Completion: Editor<span style="font-family: "cambria";">Since this is a holiday weekend we are posting a little early. Have a great Labor Day!</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "cambria";">This series of Concept to Completion started during a Skype
session with Editor Kelly Delaney. I took a class with her and invested in the one-on-one session. (SO WORTH IT.) I asked just how many hands are on a picture book from writing
to reader.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> You know what I found out?</span> WAY
MORE THAN I IMAGINED.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRY63gglj4TGsHd84rKoDEPEE0oCHTH07cnuO_nQ6SlocwJpklZ7y6eSkef8kenA9bmL9y2tLWVNFjuHNjkc7HOGWCbEIS3TRtxoLzJociFSHNMtrlYNmidqmVtUkNpAAf_3VA7KKQEmz_/s1600/Kelly+Delaney.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRY63gglj4TGsHd84rKoDEPEE0oCHTH07cnuO_nQ6SlocwJpklZ7y6eSkef8kenA9bmL9y2tLWVNFjuHNjkc7HOGWCbEIS3TRtxoLzJociFSHNMtrlYNmidqmVtUkNpAAf_3VA7KKQEmz_/s320/Kelly+Delaney.png" width="218" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<o:p><span style="font-family: "cambria";"> </span></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "cambria";">Today I’m happy to introduce Kelly Delaney, Associate Editor
at</span><span style="font-family: "cambria";"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><a href="http://knopfdoubleday.com/imprint/knopf/" target="_blank">Alfred A. Knopf Booksfor Young Readers.</a></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSapaN7of_JCWZPNImPG6JkaUwIZ9ifXKWOFW0JU8Vvycm_ZU8Ha75-1DW4FxNe4AI7Phs5RKZj5MvYlXjpOphfTQxxGOFq4B3m-sRp-Ny1tQN1Skk44JBdMiAbpIZGLwXnLJ8C38A0Ub6/s1600/KnopfBFYR.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSapaN7of_JCWZPNImPG6JkaUwIZ9ifXKWOFW0JU8Vvycm_ZU8Ha75-1DW4FxNe4AI7Phs5RKZj5MvYlXjpOphfTQxxGOFq4B3m-sRp-Ny1tQN1Skk44JBdMiAbpIZGLwXnLJ8C38A0Ub6/s1600/KnopfBFYR.gif" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><o:p><span style="font-family: "cambria";"> </span></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "cambria";">Thank you for coming
out today, Kelly. So we all want to know, what exactly does an editor do for picture
book manuscripts?<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><o:p><span style="font-family: "cambria";"> </span></o:p></b></div>
<span style="color: red;"><span style="font-family: "cambria";">Editors work with authors to make
the text as clear, concise, and engaging as possible. We also work with the
design department to select an illustrator and, with the book’s designer, act
as the go-between with the illustrator and author as the sketches and final art
are developed. <o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="color: red;"><o:p><span style="font-family: "cambria";"> </span></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="color: red;"><span style="font-family: "cambria";">After the text and illustrations are
on their way, we present the book to the rest of the company—sales, marketing,
publicity, subrights, etc.—and work with them to make sure the book finds its
way into the hands of readers who will treasure it. There are a million little
details in between, but that’s the gist of it!<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><o:p><span style="font-family: "cambria";"> </span></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "cambria";">That’s a lot of
people you have to deal with! What happens when you fall in love with a picture
book manuscript?<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="color: red;"><o:p><span style="font-family: "cambria";"> </span></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9Q53bmMPeIT1A5ShMNFIuX8WwXQbL7fkDzxRgyw_uceg739n28hB2-WN3Zm4IhvF8OQxo2XcMBmB4lmKPW5GQydIf13K936V2qo5WKNO0fLUoIlz1YfXd3St82GYfTN9NGZMHcjomfGAR/s1600/Sewing+Stories.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9Q53bmMPeIT1A5ShMNFIuX8WwXQbL7fkDzxRgyw_uceg739n28hB2-WN3Zm4IhvF8OQxo2XcMBmB4lmKPW5GQydIf13K936V2qo5WKNO0fLUoIlz1YfXd3St82GYfTN9NGZMHcjomfGAR/s320/Sewing+Stories.png" width="247" /></a></div>
<span style="color: red;"><span style="font-family: "cambria";">Usually I take the manuscript to an
editorial meeting to solicit feedback from colleagues about its quality and,
more importantly, its marketability (just because I love something doesn’t mean
it will sell). If we’re in agreement that it’s worth acquiring, I fill out a
form and a spreadsheet detailing how much I think it will sell and why, based
on its sales hooks and comparative titles. I use those details to craft an
offer, and present it to the book’s agent.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: red;"><o:p><span style="font-family: "cambria";"> </span></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "cambria";">Do you ever have to
fight for a story you love?<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="color: red;"><o:p><span style="font-family: "cambria";"> </span></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="color: red;"><span style="font-family: "cambria";">Yes. Sadly, not everything with
great writing is marketable, and publishing is a business. I’ve often gone back
to an author and asked them if they’d be willing to revise based on my
editorial feedback in an attempt to bring it to where it needs to be. Sometimes
this leads to an acquisition, but often I do just need to let a book go. That’s
never easy, but in that situation I’ll usually tell the author (or agent, more
likely) that I’d love to see more work from them in the future.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="color: red;"><o:p><span style="font-family: "cambria";"> </span></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "cambria";">How long do you edit
a picture book or, a better question may be, what were the shortest
and longest periods of time you spent editing a picture book?<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkpyBLcxXqyWTdztErGjl9_A2SHhQ9k2wPYv2qssQT4tM1x1yTzJVOP6NmlM0O-yGaUVI7pmXPRIRvU-OsNs6ugn8ALr2kqZSvgeFBOLZ4wt5JIgxRt59uGH_isnUIlq_rhO1-5_Mwz9ws/s1600/Pencil-Editor-Writer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkpyBLcxXqyWTdztErGjl9_A2SHhQ9k2wPYv2qssQT4tM1x1yTzJVOP6NmlM0O-yGaUVI7pmXPRIRvU-OsNs6ugn8ALr2kqZSvgeFBOLZ4wt5JIgxRt59uGH_isnUIlq_rhO1-5_Mwz9ws/s320/Pencil-Editor-Writer.jpg" width="270" /></a><span style="color: red;"><o:p><span style="font-family: "cambria";"> </span></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="color: red;"><span style="font-family: "cambria";">I’m working on a book now that is
ready for copyediting a week after I signed it up! The edits were very spare
and didn’t require any major restructuring. Other books can take much longer,
depending on what needs to be addressed or on the author’s schedule—they may
have other projects that take priority, which we’ll factor into the book’s
schedule. And of course, more edits may come with the art. It can take anywhere
from a few days to a few months, but I’ve never worked on a book that didn’t
need any editing at all.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="color: red;"><o:p><span style="font-family: "cambria";"> </span></o:p></span></div>
<h1 align="center" style="margin: 12pt 0in 3pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #1f497d; mso-themecolor: text2;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "cambria";">I’ve never worked on a book that didn’t need any editing
at all.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></h1>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="color: red;"><o:p><span style="font-family: "cambria";"> </span></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "cambria";">That is a great thing
to keep in mind. There is always room for improvement. Is there a separate copy
editor in your house or do you do the copy editing after the big picture
changes are made?<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="color: red;"><o:p><span style="font-family: "cambria";"> </span></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="color: red;"><span style="font-family: "cambria";">We have a copyediting team that
looks at every book several times.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="color: red;"><o:p><span style="font-family: "cambria";"> </span></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "cambria";">A team?! Wow. Is
editing a 9-5 gig or do you find yourself doing editorial work at home?<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="color: red;"><o:p><span style="font-family: "cambria";"> </span></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="color: red;"><span style="font-family: "cambria";">I read at home a lot. It’s easier to
get it done away from email, a busy office, etc. I don’t think I’ve ever
brought a picture book home with me, though—just novels.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="color: red;"><o:p><span style="font-family: "cambria";"> </span></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "cambria";">How much
caffeine/sugar/health food of choice is needed to fuel you through your
workday?<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="color: red;"><o:p><span style="font-family: "cambria";"> </span></o:p></span><span style="color: red;"><span style="font-family: "cambria";">I don’t really track my diet in this
way, but I usually have an iced coffee in the morning and eat as balanced as I
can (though an abundance of treats and snacks in the office seems to be an
occupational hazard of working in children’s publishing). My energy is more
impacted by how active I am, so I try to work out daily and/or walk to and from
work.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<o:p><span style="font-family: "cambria";"> </span></o:p><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWlBdVELnFronvunpylQS38VnNdgRJ0muij6YTBY336MG6R7s3KoekUYmzYdnyaY8-WeSQPrM42bMCGOSa4SFBVf3TeFetnrB2Y1xoWKKkFvJ7R8JER0lrxFIrPsKGKf3_6s5YuXl_c8of/s1600/Wally+Does+Not+Want+A+Haircut.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWlBdVELnFronvunpylQS38VnNdgRJ0muij6YTBY336MG6R7s3KoekUYmzYdnyaY8-WeSQPrM42bMCGOSa4SFBVf3TeFetnrB2Y1xoWKKkFvJ7R8JER0lrxFIrPsKGKf3_6s5YuXl_c8of/s320/Wally+Does+Not+Want+A+Haircut.png" width="247" /></a></div>
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "cambria";">Something we should
all try to work into our day. My hair looks like Wally's when I'm done a work out. And you can feel free to share the chocolate in your office.
Just sayin'.</span></b><br />
<br />
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "cambria";">So is there anything else you think authors should know?<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="color: red;"><o:p><span style="font-family: "cambria";"> </span></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="color: red;"><span style="font-family: "cambria";">Remember that revision is a part of
the process that doesn’t end when your manuscript is acquired—and that an
editor wouldn’t work to revise something with you if they didn’t love it. It’s
not an attack on your work, but an attempt to make it as strong as possible so
that it will appeal to as many readers as possible. We all have the same goal,
which is to get your book into the hands of as many readers as we can! <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="color: red;"><span style="font-family: "cambria";">Also, I’ve talked to a lot of
writers who worry about details like how to format a manuscript submission, how
art notes should look, and things like that. That should not be a source of
stress for you. Be organized and clear, and follow any submission guidelines
that exist. The more important part is to focus on your writing and hone your
craft. If I love a manuscript, an unnecessary art note is not going to change
that.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="color: red;"><o:p><span style="font-family: "cambria";"> </span></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "cambria";">You heard it here authors and illustrators: Editors are on
our team and want the same things for our books as we do. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<o:p><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "cambria";"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Thank you so much Kelly for taking time to share your job
with us. It’s great to peek behind the curtain and see just how much work, and
how many people work, to get a picture book out into the world.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Next time...Art Director</span><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
June Smallshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00344423860787737601noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-402626745863679958.post-49540497041889331662016-08-29T18:09:00.002-07:002016-08-29T18:10:18.414-07:00Concept to Completion: Agent<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQtf3HSR80OMmZMqh9ysL4NJRVYFcym9e8XtqqsR2p8mo_igRDtGBbUpPsndkyNDjjTWBhJ6CN6BKOYXbsGR8DSn_XwXGxZ42dxmxM2Ddi_D3E-9T220i15wsTDtMD2ezqM4QTTw8-bw1x/s1600/perry.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQtf3HSR80OMmZMqh9ysL4NJRVYFcym9e8XtqqsR2p8mo_igRDtGBbUpPsndkyNDjjTWBhJ6CN6BKOYXbsGR8DSn_XwXGxZ42dxmxM2Ddi_D3E-9T220i15wsTDtMD2ezqM4QTTw8-bw1x/s320/perry.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Agents are busy people who only make money once a book is sold. I had many kind and generous agents who have agreed to interviews for this blog. Unfortunately none were available in time for this series. (We'll be seeing them in the fall.)<br />
<br />
Since I wanted to keep this in order for when future readers go through the entire series, this is going to be a placeholder for an interview.<br />
<br />
I will say that having an agent opens doors that you may not be able to get through on your own. <br />
<br />
Some publishing houses are closed to unsolicited manuscripts and without an agent you can only sub to them if you've met them at a class or conference.<br />
<br />
Also, a good agent is going to be honest with you about if your manuscript is ready. They may even be editorial and assist you in getting your manuscript to the next level before sending it on submission.<br />
<br />
An agent will also be more likely to get you better terms if/when you get an offer. They are familiar with contracts and clauses, advances, royalties, rights, publishing houses of every size, plus they become a supporter of your work in many ways. <br />
<br />
When subbing to agents be mindful that this is a professional situation. Letters should be organized, proofread, and polite. If an agent gives you any feedback, even if they don't offer representation, please appreciate it. They don't get paid unless they are selling books, so if they take the time to give you a personal rejection, then you should take it as a compliment to your work. And I do believe it is a compliment. <br />
<br />
If you are querying agents, I wish you the best of luck. <br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmRFybmHZmIk_PjQ8BL0KhlmisN9VP-hwanFa5ymgrRVbIll8arRaYJTRmTVn83I7e_UUlV0MPF3jT2LaWCT2giZg3RJUof7up7GfHqFYVMI31Ec2IJtW0MugJR4-yyR4DBzjslBhOTmkR/s1600/candace.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmRFybmHZmIk_PjQ8BL0KhlmisN9VP-hwanFa5ymgrRVbIll8arRaYJTRmTVn83I7e_UUlV0MPF3jT2LaWCT2giZg3RJUof7up7GfHqFYVMI31Ec2IJtW0MugJR4-yyR4DBzjslBhOTmkR/s1600/candace.jpg" /></a><br />
Coming Soon: An actual Agent Interview<br />
<br />
<br />
Up Next: Concept to Completion: EditorJune Smallshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00344423860787737601noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-402626745863679958.post-26816782918716997822016-08-21T08:25:00.000-07:002016-08-21T08:25:53.751-07:00Concept to Completion: Critique Partners
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">You know what you MEAN when you write. You know the pacing
that the reader is SUPPOSED to use. You know the RHYTHM of the rhyme. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">But is it obvious to the reader if you aren’t there to
explain? Are you so close to your work that you didn’t notice a missing word?
Did your point get across?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Are you ready
to submit? HOW DO YOU KNOW?!?!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Critique Partners.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4s3oMZnkTJESUK-p-YmnJS_rWBI2P1XCdn3tMTLiTjI4rtJO7w5dPktnBjt8YZ-LbWK08Juqd08EInEXnK0q6uZV5w49gRBKHAbMaFW-8FBi-tQgZIFWgFPwTDnBDUXGxgIpB_7lbAc6n/s1600/HL_Critique_Screenshot.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4s3oMZnkTJESUK-p-YmnJS_rWBI2P1XCdn3tMTLiTjI4rtJO7w5dPktnBjt8YZ-LbWK08Juqd08EInEXnK0q6uZV5w49gRBKHAbMaFW-8FBi-tQgZIFWgFPwTDnBDUXGxgIpB_7lbAc6n/s320/HL_Critique_Screenshot.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Good critique partners are worth their weight in chocolate.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Most writers are too close to their work. It is just a fact
and we need to be real with ourselves. Others will judge the book, for better
or worse, when we submit it to an agent or editor. So wouldn’t we want to know
up front what people think? What we need to improve?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNFptyjPDpycphtodYD2IKTE-m1n-sGhj7j6txNX04dFY4BIB_irn_tdNEiVtde_v2sl_N6M9BQFZi2gPbS3zSN04a2otVQ71itX5GcoUKuK1-yIvUI32Y41pFMfPo1-1Gs0NrqQfGgRfH/s1600/Critique-Group.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNFptyjPDpycphtodYD2IKTE-m1n-sGhj7j6txNX04dFY4BIB_irn_tdNEiVtde_v2sl_N6M9BQFZi2gPbS3zSN04a2otVQ71itX5GcoUKuK1-yIvUI32Y41pFMfPo1-1Gs0NrqQfGgRfH/s200/Critique-Group.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Phase One:</b>
Critique yourself. Try to go line by line and look at it from an outsider’s
perspective. (Not easy! Takes practice!)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">A trick I use is to read the picture book manuscript
backwards so you are focusing on sentences individually. This prevents you from
going autopilot through the story you’ve read 7,982 times.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Phase Two:</b> Text
to Speech. Most all computers have a text to speech capability. A trick if you
don’t have it in Word is to copy and paste it into Excel. The computerized
voice that is stilted and staccato reads much like a child would. It also may
catch errors that spell check missed. You may have written loose when you meant
lose. Spell check won’t save you there. But that computerized voice will shock
you when you say, “That’s not what I meant.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Phase Three:</b>
Other people. This is where the big fixes happen. They will help you with a number of things.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Big Picture Items: <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Is your character’s motivation strong and apparent?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Is your story arc complete? Picture books still need a beginning, middle, and end in most cases.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9jEDhZllkLmZeNyOWqYRVInYzLSreGw4ienvILRgobhjw8SDFw6z5-SmNS9A9AXh_mpZafigfcCgEwMZQHKB1Su3VkD4D1mVY0lSYgzFq5J0gzqArkliegjRodxHkbLf5lzovBLsQczJf/s1600/plot-diagram.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="184" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9jEDhZllkLmZeNyOWqYRVInYzLSreGw4ienvILRgobhjw8SDFw6z5-SmNS9A9AXh_mpZafigfcCgEwMZQHKB1Su3VkD4D1mVY0lSYgzFq5J0gzqArkliegjRodxHkbLf5lzovBLsQczJf/s320/plot-diagram.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Is the MC relatable to a child and do they react in
childlike ways or is our adult brain seeping into the story?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Super Necessary Things:<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Word chopping – Most contemporary picture books must be
below 1,000 words and the sweet spot, currently, is less than 500.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Does it leave room for the illustrator? Do you really need
to mention their hair color or their shoes? It better be a part of story arc if you did.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Is your word choice active or passive?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">What energy is your picture book conveying? Is it loud and
humorous or quiet and contemplative? <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Smaller Things: <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Line edits. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Word choice like ‘a’ vs. ‘the’. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Any word choices or clusters that make it difficult to read
aloud or cause your reader to stumble. Read-Aloudablility is necessary for a good picture book. Ask any librarian.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Being a good critique
partner yourself:<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Some people like the ‘sandwich’ technique. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Bread – <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Say what you
like. (Positive)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPOfmeQWAJMSJBmG49OutUleXsHKsal-WzYA_pgPsfsuRHa5Rjs2LDbKrkSkiStwHg2-GaWjtDysGfw-lN7Hng6aYg6HWRhuffSPVPxjgT01FK4pyBURdEIAQvZRe3UYblR4ugr2ztOAWs/s1600/club-sandwich.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPOfmeQWAJMSJBmG49OutUleXsHKsal-WzYA_pgPsfsuRHa5Rjs2LDbKrkSkiStwHg2-GaWjtDysGfw-lN7Hng6aYg6HWRhuffSPVPxjgT01FK4pyBURdEIAQvZRe3UYblR4ugr2ztOAWs/s320/club-sandwich.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Meat/Cheese/Veggies – The items that need work and will make
your manuscript stronger and healthier. (Not negative per se, but the stuff
that is harder to hear.)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Bread – Say more of what works and what you like. (Positive)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I personally like club sandwiches, so throw some of that
bread in the middle too. Just sayin’.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Your job as a critique partner is to help others find weak
spots in their structure, build on solid foundations, and polish a beautiful
and strong story. An added bonus, when critiquing other’s work, is you may
notice areas that you need to work on too. This will help you when critiquing
your own work and will make you a stronger writer.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7jf3lYngFN2xqLV9vjw9xFjLvTP7zWYRtgwInCuN0Zzli3ZqyfRJkWSnSoXTRo6SGc6ss-qWXwF14EhCK-Q_FdZLCqkrvMHe_MfZ6Q7opLeItM2kKt7lXTUmcR2OZEce-lT2hRfGy-Z46/s1600/Student+Critique.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7jf3lYngFN2xqLV9vjw9xFjLvTP7zWYRtgwInCuN0Zzli3ZqyfRJkWSnSoXTRo6SGc6ss-qWXwF14EhCK-Q_FdZLCqkrvMHe_MfZ6Q7opLeItM2kKt7lXTUmcR2OZEce-lT2hRfGy-Z46/s320/Student+Critique.jpg" width="273" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">It may take a few tries to find a group or partners that are
a good fit. If you write in rhyme, find other poets. If you lead a super busy
lifestyle, find an online group that has more flexibility. Do you need
accountability? Find a local group that you have to look in the eye every week
or every month. Go find your people.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Happy writing and happy critiquing!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
June Smallshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00344423860787737601noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-402626745863679958.post-52655145565140943412016-08-14T18:58:00.000-07:002016-08-14T18:58:18.389-07:00Concept to Completion: Author
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Last week, I gave a
brief overview of the many, many hands that carry a picture book from concept
to completion. Now we are breaking down each step. Step one is the Author. </span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">I’m
happy to introduce Tammi Sauer, author of picture books including <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Mostly Monsterly, Nugget and Fang, and Mr.
Duck Means Business </i>(one that I LOVE, I might add. Great ending!)<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizaAtsdOb7atPJLmvwoz_3eUF6__cRtf0qS9vOBekZxYRSVs80mg37aVmSUHTh4JA9_uQMvBdWHBLqKbczSp5kGbbjb2rglL0wH_7kyXDSVWiCCZkeXf_o5wfWQxkTYCO4HVFAH5CExInt/s1600/Tammi+Sauer.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="255" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizaAtsdOb7atPJLmvwoz_3eUF6__cRtf0qS9vOBekZxYRSVs80mg37aVmSUHTh4JA9_uQMvBdWHBLqKbczSp5kGbbjb2rglL0wH_7kyXDSVWiCCZkeXf_o5wfWQxkTYCO4HVFAH5CExInt/s320/Tammi+Sauer.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Welcome to Reading,
Writing, and Reaching for Chocolate, Tammi. <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">So when you get an
idea, like Mary Had a Little Glam, how to you start your process?<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="color: red;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">I start brainstorming! With this
manuscript, I compiled a list of vivid verbs and specific nouns that tied into
my character. These words included “click-clacked,” “accessorize,” “boa,” and
“flair.” Also, I knew I wanted this story to be set in a school, so I listed
other familiar nursery rhyme characters such as Little Bo Peep, Jack and Jill,
and the kids who lived in a shoe to be her classmates.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUlKuEc3Z4y6Y5m-H30hMlJHYVwPeqHCvx_FlhUDSFisQVFJ3KwsE6XQBSkDXiP-edsKeK6FiSMJGvcYgDpyDM98iO7GQdsfp4C7zRf5jEhruwzquxh5r5TvX88Fk_qO_OKAj-pGcVW1ys/s1600/Tammi+Sauer+Mary.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="319" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUlKuEc3Z4y6Y5m-H30hMlJHYVwPeqHCvx_FlhUDSFisQVFJ3KwsE6XQBSkDXiP-edsKeK6FiSMJGvcYgDpyDM98iO7GQdsfp4C7zRf5jEhruwzquxh5r5TvX88Fk_qO_OKAj-pGcVW1ys/s320/Tammi+Sauer+Mary.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">That list seems like
a fantastic idea. Love the shout out to the other nursery rhyme favorites too! How
did you get your agent? Slush pile, conference, contest, ran into her at the
grocery store?<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="color: red;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">I am a slush pile success story!
When I was looking for an agent, I researched the names of agents who wrote
some of my favorite books. In addition, I knew I wanted to find an agent who
had a great reputation, who only accepted works she was passionate about, who
was a good communicator, and who offered editorial feedback. I found all that
(and so much more!) in Laura Rennert. We’ve been together since 2005 and have
sold 27 picture books along the way.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">TWENTY SEVEN?! And
that’s just as of today. Think about that readers, it all started in the slush pile. What
is your process with your agent? Sending only polished manuscripts or spit
balling ideas to see what she loves?<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="color: red;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">I send polished manuscripts. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">What is it like for
you when a book goes on submission?<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="color: red;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Oh, this is one of my favorite parts
of the process! I know that at any moment I could receive an email or a call
with good news. I love the feeling of possibility.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO3TpLae0YLlCVjZUI6wkfL7OS1WepImMtDb_pank9J-wtTt2al0k0FFfRMXyYMYjEC3Llexlsgf6PrhyphenhyphenUPlqTEjl_dY0d63EtwbJ14mJpq63K5GSGzQ8pkIQUJltOxqNJl4zDHBOTjk0i/s1600/Tammi+Sauer+Alien.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="314" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO3TpLae0YLlCVjZUI6wkfL7OS1WepImMtDb_pank9J-wtTt2al0k0FFfRMXyYMYjEC3Llexlsgf6PrhyphenhyphenUPlqTEjl_dY0d63EtwbJ14mJpq63K5GSGzQ8pkIQUJltOxqNJl4zDHBOTjk0i/s320/Tammi+Sauer+Alien.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">I’d have a strong
possibility of checking my email every five minutes. </span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Wingdings; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;"><span style="mso-char-type: symbol; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">J</span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> What
is the shortest and longest time you’ve spent on the manuscripts you’ve sold?<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="color: red;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">I actually wrote one of my books in
a couple of hours. That sort of thing is RARE for me. Longest? Hmm. That would
probably be Nugget & Fang. I had written a few early drafts and thought the
manuscript was okay. But okay isn’t good enough. I knew the manuscript just
wasn’t there. So I closed the file and forgot about it. It was nearly two years
later when, with the help of my critique group, I figured out how to make it
work. It ended up selling at auction.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Once sold, who at the
publishing house do you deal with and in what capacity?<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="color: red;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Primarily, I deal with my editor.
Sometimes an editor has suggestions for improvement. Sometimes an editor
involves me in finding the right illustrator. Most of the time the editor asks
for my input on the sketches and the first proofs. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Any advice for the
aspiring picture book author?<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="color: red;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">When it comes to being a part of a
critique group, find people who are at least as good as—if not better!!!!—than
you are.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s nice to have people tell
you how much they love your manuscript, but that doesn’t help you to improve.
You want people who push you to make things stronger.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Preaching to the
choir here. Good critique partners are coaches, teammates, and fans all rolled
into one group and help you become a better writer. * What are you working on
now?<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="color: red;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Eek. I don’t like to talk about my
current projects, but I will tell you that Your Alien Returns (Sterling, 2016),
Caring for Your Lion (Sterling, 2017), and Truck, Truck Goose(HarperCollins,
2017) are my next three titles.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">In my eyes, marketing
your new releases count as current work. We won’t peak behind the curtain on
the WIPS. So what fuels your creativity? Chocolate, caffeine, music, cake?<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDuYRb0mH73PMVPJDf-a6qewMHr14rdwUtHPwZ2d7CgsuTEjP-v82tn8UDK2GTxc2aDwfqj2U9XvVZ3G_wrsBQ8gW5WEd9VJfDwBzW4UIg3agfTeRwjZleViCKORFYDwesnezLZJ63RiSk/s1600/Tammi+Sauer+Cake.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="289" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDuYRb0mH73PMVPJDf-a6qewMHr14rdwUtHPwZ2d7CgsuTEjP-v82tn8UDK2GTxc2aDwfqj2U9XvVZ3G_wrsBQ8gW5WEd9VJfDwBzW4UIg3agfTeRwjZleViCKORFYDwesnezLZJ63RiSk/s320/Tammi+Sauer+Cake.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="color: red;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Oh, I love all of those things. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="color: red;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">In addition, Tara Lazar’s PiBoIdMo
(Picture Book Idea Month) provides a lot of fuel. Each November, Tara hosts
dozens of writers and illustrators who offer posts on how they get their ideas.
These posts are filled with wonderful suggestions. PiBoIdMo also challenges
writers to come up with 30 ideas for potential manuscripts. I’ve been a part of
PiBoIdMo since the beginning. Each time, at least one of those 30 ideas has led
to a book.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="color: red;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Another great creativity boost is
Linda Ashman’s Nuts & Bolts Guide to Writing Picture Books. This resource
is a goldmine of information, interviews, and exercises. One of the exercises
suggested writing a fresh take on a familiar song or rhyme such as “Twinkle, Twinkle
Little Star” or “Mary Had a Little Lamb.” Out of nowhere, the words MARY HAD A
LITTLE GLAM popped into my head. I knew I had to write Mary’s story.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<h1 align="center" style="margin: 24pt 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #365f91;"><span style="font-family: Cambria;">Each time, at least one of those 30
ideas has led to a book.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></h1>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipi_kJMUEVezVSUcjSfspBd94Vsg5VWTw0zDsBrSBuHWCd-fJb50eBACtLSMp1Nu_p1VWtS3pbL54gaacV7LDQk98NgN8j6O-e8nPbFX9COOnG9iBD6Is9xZWLzuKl6IA8LJLVnIGvancJ/s1600/Tammi+Sauer+Ginny.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipi_kJMUEVezVSUcjSfspBd94Vsg5VWTw0zDsBrSBuHWCd-fJb50eBACtLSMp1Nu_p1VWtS3pbL54gaacV7LDQk98NgN8j6O-e8nPbFX9COOnG9iBD6Is9xZWLzuKl6IA8LJLVnIGvancJ/s320/Tammi+Sauer+Ginny.png" width="292" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">I am a PiBoIdMo
participant and winner too.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Readers, you can
find PiBoIdMo <a href="https://taralazar.com/piboidmo/" target="_blank">here</a>. </span></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Thank you again Tammi
for joining us here today. Best of luck with your upcoming releases. I can’t
wait to see what you come up with next. <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">For more about Tammi
check out her website </span><a href="http://www.tammisauer.com/home.html"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Calibri;">http://www.tammisauer.com/home.html</span></a><span style="font-family: Calibri;">
.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">*Step two in the
process of concept to completion is Critique Partners/Groups. I personally don’t
see this as optional, but others may disagree. If you are looking for a
critique group I suggest starting with <a href="https://www.scbwi.org/" target="_blank">SCBWI</a> or any other groups you are
associated with. Many have critique group match makers or online forums where
you can find those who write in your genre, age group, rhyme vs. prose, etc.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Critiquing others work
will also help you see what works and what doesn’t. So by helping others you
are also helping yourself. <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Join us next time for
Concept to Completion: Agent</span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Current Hand Count: 1 author + Critique partners = approx. 5-10</span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<strong><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Time: Hours to Years</span></strong></div>
June Smallshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00344423860787737601noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-402626745863679958.post-79527655802506238732016-08-07T16:56:00.000-07:002016-08-07T16:56:07.320-07:00From Concept to Completion: How Many Hands Touch a Picture Book on the Publishing Journey?
<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">When publishing traditionally, just what goes on getting
your picture book out there?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTqmUTkqZjmZQjbmo_92sRQddleKT3XGo4jJ8Ry-YrdTxn-3TZdnUsCrvaHoa5OS4sOklvRCY66eNBCsRZ2kOSS24iZtfX1NoFROjYVKOojmJQZkLhaLUxYmqAca06AMsXL6zEdN0q3P_h/s1600/book+opening.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="275" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTqmUTkqZjmZQjbmo_92sRQddleKT3XGo4jJ8Ry-YrdTxn-3TZdnUsCrvaHoa5OS4sOklvRCY66eNBCsRZ2kOSS24iZtfX1NoFROjYVKOojmJQZkLhaLUxYmqAca06AMsXL6zEdN0q3P_h/s320/book+opening.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">You-Publisher-Consumer<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Right?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Not quite. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">During a talk with an editor recently, I asked just how many
hands are on a picture book from concept and writing to completion and in the
hands of the reader.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Here’s what I found
out.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Author</b>
– This is the easy part. The creator of the manuscript. Sometimes this person
is also the illustrator, but for this series we are looking at text only
manuscripts.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">**Hand count: 1**<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in;">
<o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Critique Partners/Beta
Readers</b> – Seriously-this should be a step. Find a critique group online or
through groups like SCBWI. They can help you find what is working and what is
not. They will push you to be a better writer. They will help you know when it
is finally time to submit.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">**Hand count: approx. 5-10 **<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in;">
<o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Agent</b>
– Not always necessary but I feel this is important to open doors and help you
get your work extra polished before presenting it too publishers. Plus many
publishers are closed to unsolicited submissions so you almost always need an
agent to get into these houses.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">**Hand count: 6-11**<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in;">
<o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Editor</b>
– Your agent, or yourself, will submit to an editor. If they love your story
and see promise they will present it to their boss (or acquisitions team).<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt 1in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level2 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">o<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Inside the publishing house now: the Editor’s
boss (or acquisitions team) will need to give the thumbs up to acquire the
piece.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">**Hand count: 7-12**<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 1in; mso-add-space: auto;">
<o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">You and
Editor</b> – There will be back and forth during the editorial process. This
may be a few simple changes and corrections or there may be a number of big
changes. Each book is different.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in;">
<o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Copy
Editing</b> –focuses on accuracy, formatting, and proofreading. Line edits
people.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">**Hand count: 8-13**<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in;">
<o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Design/Art
Director</b> – The art director does exactly that. They find and guide the artist
in the direction to achieve the right ‘feeling’ for a book. They work with the
editor and discuss what illustrators they think are right for the project. They
are not just a stop on this chain of hands on you book, but more of a cog that
is moving along with many other. They work with the editor, illustrator.
Sometimes this is a team and not just an individual.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">**Hand count: 9-16**<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in;">
<o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Illustrator</b>
– The partner that you may never even meet or talk to. This person will create
concept drawings, work with the Design Dept/Art Director. After weeks, months,
or occasionally years they will create the art that brings the text to life.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">**Hand count: 10-17**<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in;">
<o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Production
Editor</b>- Production editors manage the publication. They deal with writers,
editors, and vendors to ensure your picture book meet the house’s standards and
that everyone meets deadlines. Sometimes these editors also proofread and edit
the manuscript and offer feedback to writers and the other editors. (Notice ALL
the editing to make sure your picture book is as perfect as can be?)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">**Hand count: 11-18**<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in;">
<o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Sales</b>
– These are the people actively selling your finished book to vendors. Again
not just an individual, but a team.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">**Hand count: 12-21**<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in;">
<o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Publicity</b>
– These are the folks who create awareness for your book, gaining attention and
interest.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">**Hand count: 13-24**<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in;">
<o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Marketing</b>
– These folks, like with Publicity, create awareness and help sell the book. In
some houses the Publicity and Marketing are one in the same.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">**Hand count: 14-27**<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in;">
<o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Sub-rights</b>-
These are "sub-license" your picture book for various formats and
adaptations in addition to the primary format. Additional sales could be film
or television rights or translation to another language.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">**Hand count: 15-28**<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in;">
<o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Book
Sellers and Libraries</b> – Such as Barnes & Noble, Amazon, and Indy
Bookstores. The places we know and love.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">**Hand count: 20-way too high of a number
for me to even guess.**<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in;">
<o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Reader</b>
– Finally. This quick and simple process can take around 2 years on average
and, depending on the size of the publishing house you are working with, you
can easily have up to 20-30 people who have their hands on your precious
manuscript to get it out into the world. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaKEFaoLI6TgE2KOSoEKZBoWcd4XSBEuU1AWq5WKO9e9fmV9A3Iyb0LXX1v1E0z9UKb6PTe9Q_eEZk26uc8KCQNhqGTu9XVNB6h1adDagznvdR5xDRmzXJpkaT32R4YXUQX1KHo-WTmrQf/s1600/child-taking-books-off-shelf.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaKEFaoLI6TgE2KOSoEKZBoWcd4XSBEuU1AWq5WKO9e9fmV9A3Iyb0LXX1v1E0z9UKb6PTe9Q_eEZk26uc8KCQNhqGTu9XVNB6h1adDagznvdR5xDRmzXJpkaT32R4YXUQX1KHo-WTmrQf/s320/child-taking-books-off-shelf.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Traditional publishing takes a real team to
get a book from concept to completion.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Over the next weeks I’m tracking down people in these fields to get
interviews so we can see what goes on behind the scenes when making a picture
book.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in;">
<o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">People in the publishing field, let me know
if I skipped any jobs. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Please note all of my counts are
approximations. These numbers can vary greatly depending on the size of the
publishing houses.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></div>
June Smallshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00344423860787737601noreply@blogger.com2