Interview with Author Lisa Katzenberger

Happy Thursday Critters! I hope you are all staying warm wherever you are— here in Ohio it is a whopping 12 degrees today! Sunny and beautiful, but frigid! Today we have an interview with Lisa Katzenberger to celebrate her newest book, IT WILL BE OKAY: A STORY OF EMPATHY, KINDNESS, AND FRIENDSHIP, illustrated by Jaclyn Sinquett. The timing of this book could not be more relevant and I think we all need books that support this message in our lives right now. I’m thrilled to have Lisa with us today to share her journey in publishing and her fantastic new book!

So without further ado, please welcome Lisa Katzenberger!

Where do you live?

I live in La Grange, Illinois—a suburb of Chicago. It’s a suburban with a bit of an urban feel. We live within walking distance of La Grange’s downtown, elementary school, and most importantly library!

How many years have you been in publishing?

I had my first short story published in 2005. I didn’t get paid a thing, but I was super happy!

How did you first get published?

I started my writing career with short stories, and have had a handful published. But my first book was a Work For Hire project for Capstone, published for the school and library market. A friend referred me to her editor, who invited me to send her a couple picture book manuscripts. And while she didn’t pick those up, she did ask me to write Triceratops Would Not Be a Good Ninja. It was a good way to dip my toe into the publishing world.

Do you write full-time?

Oh I wish I could! I do freelance technical writing work from time to time, and am currently working with author Bethany Hegedus as her author assistant and helping run her Courage to Create program. Then I have my mom job to my 10-year-old twins, which requires a lot of time right now to help them through e-learning. 

What inspires you to create picture books?

My kids. They have such a silly way of looking at the world. Maybe they say something funny or ask a question and it will spark an idea for me.

What surprised you the most working as an author?

How long the process takes to get a picture book published. I knew the writing and revising portion itself is long, but I didn’t understand how long the illustration process takes. So after a picture book manuscript is acquired, it can be 18-24 months before it’s published.

What is your favorite thing about being an author?

That I get to make things up! I can live in a world where anything goes. It’s very freeing!

What do you find difficult working as an author?

The writing process itself is difficult. So is the revising. And editing. And coming up with new ideas. To use art notes or not, that decision is tough too. It’s all really hard—but I absolutely love it!

What do you do to shake the rust off or get new ideas?

I like to go for walks (if it’s not a freezing Chicago winter day!) and listen to podcasts or music. The movement and the sounds get the quiet part of my brain moving.

Anything you are habitual about when it comes to creativity?

No, not really. I don’t write every day, or listen to music, or go through any type of routine. Sometimes I write when it hits me and sometimes I make myself get up out of bed early and think of it as work. I’m kind of all over the place!

Can you share a positive experience you’ve had in the Kid Lit community?

I love the community I’ve built through the SCBWI Illinois region. I’ve made really good friends (who I miss terribly during the pandemic!) who I can talk to about the writing journey. We meet for coffee or dinner and even have a kidlit book club. It’s so great to have friends who understand what you’re going through.

Recommended reading?

I am currently in love with I Am Every Good Thing written by Derrick Barnes and illustrated by Gordon C. James and Eyes That Kiss in the Corners written by Joanna Ho and illustrated by Dung Ho. I also adore everything Tammi Sauer writes. 

What has been the highlight of your career thus far?

I think it’s been showing my kids that if you work hard and stick with it, you can make your dreams come true. They know I wanted to be a writer since I was a kid myself, and inspiring them is more meaningful than any book deal.

What is something you wish someone had told you when you first started writing?

That my life wouldn’t magically improve when I got an agent, or signed a contract, or saw my book in a store. I don’t know what I expected, but all these felt so regular and not so magical.

Can you tell us about your newest book?

IT WILL BE OK: A Story of Empathy, Kindness, and Friendship is about an anxious, overwhelmed giraffe and his loyal zebra friend whose patience and presence help him face his greatest fear head-on.

Interior art from IT WILL BE OKAY: A STORY OF EMPATHY, KINDNESS, AND FRIENDSHIP by Lisa Katzenberger, illustrated by Jaclyn Sinquett

When Giraffe sees a spider, he climbs a tree to hide. His friend Zebra finds him, listens to his feelings, and stands by his side. It is beautifully illustrated by Jaclyn Sinquett.

Interior art from IT WILL BE OKAY: A STORY OF EMPATHY, KINDNESS, AND FRIENDSHIP by Lisa Katzenberger, illustrated by Jaclyn Sinquett

What’s up next for you?

I don’t know! More writing. I have a chapter book out on submission and will be going out on submission with another couple of picture book manuscripts over the next few months. Cross your fingers for me!

Anything else you’d like to share with aspiring authors and illustrators?

Keep going and don’t give up. It take A LOT of work to get published, but it is SO worth it. You will have hiccups along the way—and if you’re anything like me—feel like a fraud from time to time and that everything you created is crummy. But at least you created something, and that’s the first step. You can turn the crummy into incredible through hard work, solid critique partners, and passion.

And last, but not least, favorite 80s movie?

The Breakfast Club. I so wanted to be a glamorous Claire, but I was in fact a nerdy Brian.

---

Huge thank you to Lisa for stopping by Critter Lit today! Congrats on your new book!

---

LISA KATZENBERGER lives in La Grange, IL in a hundred-year-old Victorian house with sloping hardwood floors, glass doorknobs, and the tiniest bathroom you've ever seen. She lives with her husband and amazing boy-girl twins. Lisa’s an active member of SCBWI, where she volunteers as the Social Media Coordinator for the SCBWI-Illinois region. She works part-time as a technical writing consultant to fund her writing conference habit. Lisa is represented by Wendi Gu of Sanford J. Greenburger Associates.

FOR MORE INFORMATION about Lisa or her books, visit his website at www.lisakatzenberger.com or follow her on social media:

Twitter: FictionCity

Instagram: LisaKatz17

Pinterest: LisaKatzenbergerKidLit

ORDER THIS BOOK To order a copy of IT WILL BE OKAY, click here.

WIN A COPY! Want to win a copy of IT WILL BE OKAY?! Leave a COMMENT below or RETWEET this post on Twitter. One lucky winner will be announced on Thursday, February 24th! US addresses only please.

Interview with Author Troy Wilson

Happy Thursday Critters! Today we have a fantastic interview with author Troy Wilson. I’m thrilled to share his work with all of you as I’m a huge fan of fractured fairy tales and retellings. His newest book, GOLDIBOOKS AND THE WEE BEAR, illustrated by Edwardian Taylor, just came out this month with Running Kids Press.

So without further ado, please welcome Troy Wilson!

Where do you live?

Victoria, British Columbia, Canada. As the crow (or plane) flies, it's about 75 miles from Seattle.

How many years have you been in publishing?

My first picture book came out in 2004. So, by that measure, I've been in publishing for 17 years (though I did get paid for some opinion pieces starting in 2001).

How did you first get published?

I had dreamt of being either a writer or cartoonist since about second grade, but I never put in the hard work necessary to make that dream a reality. Then in October of 2000, at the ripe old age of 30, I finally buckled down and started putting my nose to the writing grindstone. Since I was starting at ground zero and was in a hurry, I focused entirely on short pieces. And in a year's time, I had gotten an opinion piece published in a local alternative weekly, won third place in a local Postcard Fiction competition, and signed the contract for my first picture book (titled Perfect Man). 

I had certainly received all kinds of rejections for all kinds of work during that initial year, and would go on to receive countless more. But as for Perfect Man in particular? Never received a single rejection for it. I sent Perfect Man to exactly two publishers: Orca Books and a small start-up that I no longer remember the name of (I don't think they're around anymore). Orca said yes, and I jumped at their offer, withdrawing it from the other publisher. I had no agent and no contacts at Orca. Just a decent manuscript and a whole lot of luck. 

I wrote all kinds of short material initially. Opinion pieces, book reviews, news stories, human resource reports for government. But over the years, my interest in the other stuff has diminished, and only the kids’ stuff has remained. 

Do you write full-time?

Nope. I might do it full-time at some point, but right now I'm also working part-time as a stock clerk at a local supplement store. Picture books aren't super-lucrative, and neither are books in general. Sure, substantial payments can roll in sometimes, but it's very much feast or famine. I'm happy that my day job is an active one, to offset the sedentary nature of writing. Plus, my co-workers are top-notch.

What inspires you to create picture books?

Other creators' amazing picture books inspire me to create picture books.

What surprised you the most working as an author?

Everyone talks about how hard it is to break in, and it certainly can be. But for me, staying in was even harder. I thought that after my first picture book saw print, I'd have a picture book come out every year or two thereafter. Not so. My first picture book came out in 2004. My second picture book came out in 2005. My third picture book didn't come out until ... drumroll ... 2015! And believe me, that wasn't for lack of trying. I was writing and submitting the whole time, but to no avail. Rejection, rejection, and more rejection. Thankfully, I had a ton of fiction published in kids' magazines during the long book drought. Those published stories helped keep my spirits up, and the feedback from the magazine editors helped me continue to improve my craft. 

And here's the funny thing about that drought-breaking third book: it was a rhyming book - and rhyming books are notoriously hard to place. Anyway, things have been going great since then. I signed on with my agent Hilary McMahon just in time for her to negotiate the contract for my sixth picture book. This year, books 8 and 9 are being released. Even so, I know full well that another book drought could hit me at any time. Can't take anything for granted. Just have to keep keeping on.

What is your favorite thing about being an author?

Creating picture books is my favorite thing about being an author. I love the collaboration with so many talented, dedicated, and insightful people. The artists, the editors, the designers, my agent, and everyone in between.

Inspiring, entertaining, and educating kids is great, too, of course. But for me, the creation part is super-duper-great.

What do you find difficult working as an author?

The waiting is the hardest part. Publishing moves at a glacial pace. You just have to accept that as a given.

What do you do to shake the rust off or get new ideas?

I honestly haven't had a problem with rust or new ideas in a long time. But I certainly do have problems figuring out what to do with ideas once I have them. Sometimes when I'm having trouble writing the thing, I write *about* the thing instead. For instance, I knew I wanted to do a fractured version of Jack and the Beanstalk, but even with a specific angle that I won't yet reveal, there were still a million different ways that angle could go. So I refrained from jumping into a draft. Instead, I wrote about the various options in a thinking-out-loud kind of way. After a couple years of periodically jotting down Beanstalk thoughts while I did other things, a fully-formed Beanstalk manuscript sprang up practically overnight (well, more like over a few weeks - but still, it came together relatively quickly when I was finally ready for the draft stage). And just so I don't totally scare everyone away from this technique, I want to assure you that my writing-about-the-thing practice doesn't always – or even often – take two whole years (!) to break a log jam. This just happens to be the only example that comes to my mind right now.

Anything you are habitual about when it comes to creativity?

I tend to work in silence. Not total silence, of course. The ambient sounds of the world always seep in. I just mean that I don't play any audio when I sit down at my computer to write. Same whenever I'm out walking alone. No podcasts, no music. It's just me, the ambient sounds, and whatever writing breakthroughs pop into my head. 

Can you share a positive experience you’ve had in the Kid Lit community?

Goofing around with writer Ame Dyckman on Twitter is always a joy. She puts out lots of fun stuff, and genuinely seems to appreciate getting fun responses back. She has a generous, give-and-take, improv sensibility.

In general, I find Kid Lit Twitter to be invaluable. So much support and knowledge and humor. So much lovely artwork. So many great book recommendations. To be sure, Twitter has plenty of toxic zones, but Kid Lit Twitter is a rejuvenating oasis.

Recommended reading?

I recommend you read loads and loads of contemporary award winners and bestsellers (along, of course, with whatever happens to catch your eye and strike your fancy). But you don't need my help to find those. So instead I'm going to point out two under-appreciated gems:

Knot Cannot by Tiffany Stone and Mike Lowery

Glister by Andi Watson

And if you follow me on Twitter, you can check out my “Books I Enjoyed This Week” tweets. I just post the covers, with no further review or explanation, but people still seem to like them. And believe me, not everything I read makes the cut.

What has been the highlight of your career thus far?

This is hard to narrow down, so I'll pick two.

The first highlight was when Stan "The Man" Lee heaped praise upon my first book, a superhero tale called Perfect Man. I'd been eagerly devouring all sorts of comics, including Marvel Comics, from a very young age. So having Mr. Marvel himself applaud my and illustrator Dean Griffihs's work was quite a thrill.

The second involved the launch of a picture book titled The Sinking of Captain Otter. It was inspired by a little book I wrote and drew way back in Grade One called Captain Otter. Because of its origins, the publisher and I launched the book at the elementary school where I created the original. It was pretty amazing to come full-circle like that. I dedicated it to my first grade teacher and my six-year-old self.

What is something you wish someone had told you when you first started writing?

Same answer as my biggest surprise. I wish someone had told me that staying in is as hard as getting in.

Can you tell us about your newest book?

Goldibooks and the Wee Bear is published by Running Press Kids and illustrated by Edwardian Taylor. It is the second book/reading-themed fairy tale I've done with Running Press Kids. The first was Little Red Reading Hood and the Misread Wolf, illustrated by Ilaria Campana. You don't have to read one to make sense of the other. They do go great together, though.

Interior Art from GOLDIBOOKS AND THE WEE BEAR by Troy Wilson, Illustrated by Edwardian Taylor

Here's the Goldibooks summary:

"In this adorable reimagining of the beloved classic, Wee Bear is on the hunt for something new to read. As he sets off through the woods, he stumbles upon Goldibooks's house. While she and her parents are out for a walk, Wee Bear makes himself at home. But Mom's books are too hard (hardcovers) and Dad's are too soft (paperbacks). Thankfully, Goldibooks's book collection is juuuust right! With a pile of books in-hand, Wee Bear sits down to read. But Mom's chair is too hard, and Dad's chair is too soft. Thankfully, Goldibook's chair is juuuuust right!

Exhausted from hauling around so many books, Wee Bear tucks himself into bed. But Mom's bed is too hard, and Dad's bed is too soft. Thankfully, Goldibooks's bed is juuuust right! And that's where Goldibooks and her parents find him when they return home. As the story unfolds from there, readers are reminded that the best books are those we share with friends".

Interior Art from GOLDIBOOKS AND THE WEE BEAR by Troy Wilson, Illustrated by Edwardian Taylor

What’s up next for you?

My first picture book with Candlewick hits shelves in the fall. It's illustrated by Eve Coy, and it's different than anything I've done. More heart, and less humor. It'll be interesting to see how it's received.

Anything else you’d like to share with aspiring authors and illustrators?

To be successful, you need at least these three things: persistence, luck, and talent. Of the three, persistence is by far the most important. Persistence gives you more chances to be lucky, and persistence gives you more chances to grow your talent. Persistence, persistence, persistence.

And bear in mind that the day before a big breakthrough usually feels exactly the same as any other day. You don’t know what is around the next corner. You don’t know how close you might be.

And last, but not least, favorite 80s movie?

I don't really have favorites. Not a favorite food or a favorite color or a favorite season or a favorite anything else. A Fish Called Wanda is pretty fun, though.

---

Huge thanks to Troy for stopping by Critter Lit today! Congratulations on all your fantastic books!

---

TROY WILSON is the author of nine picture books and 15 stories for kids’ magazines. Troy has no kids – except for his inner kid. He lives in Victoria, BC.

FOR MORE INFORMATION about Troy or his books, visit him online: www.troystory.ca or follow him on social media:

Twitter: @TroyStoryToo

ORDER THIS BOOK To order a copy of any of Troy’s books, click here.

WIN A COPY! Want to win a copy of GOLDIBOOKS AND THE WEE BEAR and LITTLE RED READING HOOD AND THE MISREAD WOLF?! Leave a COMMENT below or RETWEET this post on Twitter. One lucky winner will be announced on Thursday, February 4th! US addresses only please.

Interview with Debut Author Melanie Ellsworth

Happy Thursday Critters! Today on Critter Lit we have an interview with Melanie Ellsworth whose debut picture book, CLARINET AND TRUMPET, illustrated by John Herzog, comes out March 2021 with Houghton Mifflin Harcourt. Originally slated to come out this week, the release date has been changed to next year. So please make sure to preorder a copy and support Melanie’s debut book!

I love a punny book and this one is full of them! It also features a music-making shaker built into the book for an interactive component. You can join the orchestra too! How fun is that?!

So without further ado, please welcome Melanie Ellsworth to Critter Lit!

Where do you live?

In mid-coast Maine in an old house with an old barn attached.

When did you know you wanted to write picture books?

I’ve always loved picture books at every age and stage of my life. During my teen years, I toted a bag of favorite picture books with me to every babysitting gig, and later I shared them while teaching ESOL and doing literacy coaching. Just for fun, while traveling through Kenya in my twenties, I wrote (and a friend illustrated) a picture book inspired by our time spent in the Kakamega Rainforest. When my daughter was born years later, I got inspired to finally follow that dream of writing picture books, and I wrote after work and during my daughter’s naps.

Tell us about your road to publication, what did that involve for you?

When I first started seriously writing in 2012, I joined SCBWI and quickly found a wonderful local critique group. For a time, I was actually in three critique groups! That got to be a bit much, so now I’m part of two groups. I attended the New England SCBWI conference and found a community of writers there as well, and I followed several writers on-line. There are so many brilliant blogs out there about the industry and the craft of writing. In February 2017, I was fortunate enough to get a three-month mentorship with picture book author Beth Ferry through the “Writing with the Stars” contest, and that experience gave me confidence to keep querying agents and editors. Then in September 2017, at the “Agents Editors Writers” conference in Belgrade Lakes, Maine, an editor from HMH expressed enthusiasm for my picture book Clarinet & Trumpet when it was read anonymously during the slush-pile panel. I sent the book to that editor after the conference, got a revision request, revised and re-sent it, and got a contract in June 2018! From there, I signed with my agent, and sold a second picture book to HMH. Those books are coming out in August 2020 and February 2021, and we have several more books on submission now.

What do you do to shake the rust off or get new ideas?

For me, I think the most effective thing to do is just to keep writing. When I’m not working on something new, I don’t feel as energized. Ideas come to me at any time of day, often in the form of silly titles involving puns. Some of them work better than others when I try to turn them into picture books!

Tell us about your debut book:

My debut book, Clarinet & Trumpet, illustrated by John Herzog, is somewhat autobiographical. I played the clarinet in bands and orchestras for many years and noticed a friendly rivalry between the woodwinds and brass. My book is about a friendship between Clarinet and Trumpet that falls flat when they divide into factions but reignites when they realize that every instrument and every section must come together to make the music amazing. I had a blast putting lots of musical puns into this book. I hope readers enjoy the friendship story while also learning about the different instruments and sections in an orchestra. John Herzog really made the characters come alive with his vibrant illustrations!

And last, but not least, favorite 80s movie?:

It’s a tie between Stand By Me and Back to the Future. (As a Mainer, I have to lean towards Stand By Me since it’s based on a story written by Stephen King!)

---

Huge thank you to Melanie for stopping by Critter Lit today! We are so excited for your debut! Congrats!

---

Melanie Ellsworth dreams and writes in lovely mid-coast Maine, where her family (especially the dog), provides daily inspiration for her picture books. Her debut book, Clarinet & Trumpet, illustrated by John Herzog, comes out with Houghton Mifflin Harcourt in March 2021, followed by Hip, Hip…Beret!, illustrated by Morena Forza. 

WANT TO KNOW MORE about Melanie or her books, visit her online at www.MelanieEllsworth.com or follow her on social media:

Twitter (@melanieells)

Instagram (@melaniebellsworth)

BUY THIS BOOK To order a copy of Melanie’s new picture book, CLARINET AND TRUMPET, illustrated by John Herzog, click here.

WIN A COPY! Want to win a copy of CLARINET AND TRUMPET?! Leave a COMMENT below or RETWEET this post on Twitter. One lucky winner will be announced on Thursday, September 3rd! US addresses only please.

Interview with Author Gabi Snyder

Happy Thursday Critters! Is anyone else wondering how it’s Thursday already?! These days I find that I have no idea what day it is for most of the week— and then suddenly it’s Thursday and time to post Critter Lit’s interview with another fabulous writer and/or illustrator! Today, I’m thrilled to be interviewing the lovely and talented Gabi Snyder, whose debut book, TWO DOGS ON A TRIKE, illustrated by Robin Rosenthal, just came out at the end of May. I love this picture book so much— it’s fun and hilarious with fantastic art! A winning combination.

So without further ado, please welcome Gabi Snyder!

Where do you live?

I currently live in Corvallis, Oregon. We moved here 7 years ago from Austin, Texas. But moving to Corvallis was a kind of homecoming because I grew up in the Pacific Northwest and attended college at UW in Seattle.

When did you know you wanted to write picture books?

In the early aughts, I studied English-Creative Writing at The University of Texas, with a focus on writing fiction for adults. Afterwards, I took a variety of jobs that involved writing. But I didn’t discover that I wanted to write picture books until I became immersed in reading them daily with my two littles. Seeing how the words and pictures work together to tell the story, I fell in love with this art form. I think I wrote my first picture book draft in early 2014.

Tell us about your road to publication, what did that involve for you?

Once I started writing picture books, I (foolishly?) started submitting to agents and editors right away. From 2014 to 2017, I received over 100 passes from agents and editors. But thrown in the mix were some champagne rejections and a few requests to see more work. Finally, in 2018, I found my agent, the fabulous Natalie Lakosil of Bradford Literary. I had sent Natalie three of my picture book manuscripts. When I received an offer from a small press for one of those manuscripts, I “nudged” the handful of agents who were reading my work at that time. Natalie responded that same day, requesting that we set up a time to chat. I had the impression that she’d already been considering me as a potential client and my “nudge” may’ve just moved things along. Since I signed with Natalie, we’ve sold two picture books. 

Can you share a bit about your process?

One big piece of my process as a writer involves reading. Though I rarely get to read picture books to my kids (now 10 and 12) these days, I still read piles of them to myself. As I’m reading through picture books, I’m tuning in to which books move or surprise me, which books I want to read again and again. Seeing which books resonate with me helps inform the type of books that I want to write.

I like to start each writing session with a “free write” to clear away the cobwebs and to capture anything that’s worrying me or that I want to remember. After that, I try to stick to a schedule. I block out a certain amount of time for working on picture book manuscripts. And then, time permitting, I have blocks for revising my middle grade manuscript, writing critiques, etc. I try to work some exercise into the schedule, too.

In terms of my process for working on a particular picture book manuscript, I like to let my drafts “marinate.” So, after drafting a new story, I generally set it aside for several days or even weeks. If, after marination, I still think it’s worth pursuing, I revise. Usually after a marination period, I’ll have new ideas for tackling problems I’m having with the manuscript. After a few more revision/marination cycles, if I still like the story, I send it to a critique group for feedback. They usually see issues I hadn’t even considered. A story might go through a few more revision cycles after critiques before I deem it ready for my agent. And sometimes I realize a story just isn’t working and end up setting it aside for several more weeks, months, or even years.  

What do you do to shake the rust off or get new ideas?

I find that my writing “flows” better if I take a walk before or between writing sessions! In fact, I love to take my notebook and pen with me on long walks. I’ve worked through thorny plot problems while walking and have had countless ideas pop into my brain while strolling through my town or hiking in the woods. I think it’s a combination of the repetitive movement involved and the inspiration that can come from a change of scenery. 

Anything you can’t live without while you write?

Coffee!

Any authors and/or illustrators who inspire you?

So many! Two authors who consistently move me with their writing are Jacqueline Woodson and Julie Fogliano. 

Dream project to work on?

I have a mess of ideas, but no one dream project. However, one idea that’s turned into a fun puzzle is figuring out how to write a time travel picture book in a way that works for young readers. I haven’t come up with any great solutions so far, but it’s an entertaining challenge!

Tell us about your debut book.

TWO DOGS ON A TRIKE, illustrated by Robin Rosenthal and just out (May 19) from Abrams Appleseed, starts with a gate left open and a dog escaping her yard to join a poodle on a trike. Soon it’s three dogs on a scooter and then four dogs on a bike. With each new mode of transportation, a new dog is added to the fun. But what the pups fail to notice is that the original dog’s family cat is in hot pursuit. 

I love Robin Rosenthal’s illustrations and the 80s retro vibe she achieved, especially with the cat character’s wardrobe. My favorite spread comes when we reach “10 dogs,” and there’s a realization. That last animal? Not a dog! The revelation spread and the one that follows are my favorite parts of the story. And while my illustration notes made clear who that not a dog is, I didn’t specify where we are. Robin’s illustration for that spread is hilarious and unexpected! 

Interior Spread from TWO DOGS ON A TRIKE, written by Gabi Snyder, illustrated by Robin Rosenthal

What’s up next for you?

My second picture book, LISTEN, illustrated by Stephanie Graegin, will be out in spring 2021 from Simon & Schuster/Wiseman. LISTEN begins with noise: the BEEP! WOOF! ERNT-ERNT! VROOM! of a busy morning, and draws the reader closer as it encourages listening to quieter and quieter sounds. It promotes mindfulness and not only hearing, but really listening, paying attention to the quiet, and even silence, around and within you.

Right now I’m juggling several picture book manuscripts, but it’s hard to say when each will be “submission ready.” I’m also drafting a middle grade novel and an early chapter book. 

And last, but not least, favorite 80s movie?

Tough question! I’m going to say E.T., but I also loved Footloose, The Color Purple, When Harry Met Sally, Pretty in Pink, and Do the Right Thing. And The Princess Bride! I could list a dozen more!

---

Huge thank you to Gabi Snyder for stopping by Critter Lit today! Congrats on your debut picture book TWO DOGS ON A TRIKE! We can’t wait to check out LISTEN next year!

---

GABI SNYDER is a reader, writer, and lover of chocolate. Gabi’s debut picture book, TWO DOGS ON A TRIKE, is out now (May 2020) from Abrams Appleseed, and her second picture book, LISTEN, will be out in spring 2021 from Simon & Schuster/Wiseman. Gabi lives in Oregon with her family, including one daredevil dog and the cat who keeps everyone in line.

FOR MORE INFORMATION on Gabi, visit her online at gabisnyder.com or follow her on social media:

Twitter: @Gabi_A_Snyder

Instagram: gabi_snyder_writer

BUY THIS BOOK To purchase a copy of any of Gabi’s books, click here.

WIN A COPY! Want to win a SIGNED copy of TWO DOGS ON A TRIKE?! Leave a COMMENT below or RETWEET this post on Twitter. One lucky winner will be announced on Thursday, June 18th! US addresses only please.

Interview with Author Amber Hendricks

Happy Thursday Critters! I’m thrilled to introduce you to this week’s Critter Lit author, Amber Hendricks! Amber has four books out in 2020— two picture books and two board books! How exciting is that?! Her first picture book this year, EXTRAORDINARY ORDINARY ELLA, illustrated by Luciana Navarro Powell, comes February 25th.

So without further ado, please welcome Amber Hendricks!

Where do you live?

I live in a small rural farming town in Missouri near Kansas City.

When did you know you wanted to write picture books?

Books have always been a big part of my life. I was blessed with parents who were readers and books were plentiful in our home. And if I ran out of books at home, I could just stop by my Grandma’s used bookstore where I spent countless hours sharing my latest story ideas with her. But when I started pursuing publishing, I wasn’t writing picture books. After researching the industry, I realized that picture books were deceptively complex and I challenged myself to learn the craft. I hoped that if I could succeed in writing a picture book, I could succeed in any area of publishing. The joke was on me though, because I quickly fell in love with picture books and I haven’t looked back since! 

Tell us about your road to publication, what did that involve for you?

My journey has been a whirlwind of an adventure! I’ve had the privilege of working with two agents over the years and, although painful, breaking from those agents was a necessary step for me to grow as a writer. It forced me to look inward, reassess my goals and desires, and dig deeper than I ever thought I could. I didn’t give up, and thankfully, my stories landed with some amazing publishers.

Can you share a bit about your process?

I don’t follow the conventional advice of writing every day. But I do spend a lot of time in my head, imagining characters, or thinking over plots. In fact, most of my ideas are fairly fleshed out before a word goes on the page. Usually, it all starts with a title or character streaking across my mind and I build upon the idea, snipping here, rearranging there, until I think the story is strong enough to send to my critique partners. Once I get their feedback, I’ll cut, rewrite, and piece back together the manuscript until it sings. 

What do you do to shake the rust off or get new ideas?

Read. Spending time in other people’s stories is a great way to find inspiration and refill your creative well. Reading is also an invaluable tool as it can open a window to another writer’s process, especially if you’re stuck. If I’m still puzzling over a plot hole, or haven’t found the right inspiration, I love to go for walks, allowing my mind to wander while I enjoy nature.

Anything you can’t live without while you write?

I’ve always needed some sort of background noise, so I usually turn on a few episodes of The Office.

Any authors and/or illustrators who inspire you?

So many! When I started, I adored Jane Yolen and Anna Dewdney. I still do, but now I’ve had the joy of getting to know so many amazing authors and illustrators who never stop pushing for their dreams. 

Dream project to work on?

I’m a big comic book nerd and would love to do a tie-in book or series based on my favorite superheroes. 

Tell us about your newest book.

My newest picture book, EXTRAORDINARY ORDINARY ELLA, publishes in just a few days from Amicus Ink! My main character, Ella, struggles with feeling ordinary and is determined to find what makes her special in time for her school’s talent show. But when ordinary acts of kindness steal the show, Ella discovers just how extraordinary ordinary can be! 

I’m so proud of this little book and couldn’t have asked for a better partner in the illustrator, Luciana Navarro Powell. Her wonderful illustrations bring Ella and her friends right off the page and into your heart. 

What’s up next for you?

2020 is going to be a wonderful year! Not only is my next picture book, SUPERHEROES DON’T BABYSIT, illustrated by Kyle Reed, publishing on June 2nd, from Beaming Books, the first two board books of my LITTLE NATURE EXPLORERS series, illustrated by Gavin Scott, will publish in August from Amicus Ink.  

And last, but not least, favorite 80s movie?

The Goonies, always and forever. My motto in publishing (and life) is, Goonies Never Say Die!

---

Huge thanks to Amber Hendricks for stopping by Critter Lit today! Congrats such a fantastic 2020!

---

Born and raised in the Midwest, AMBER HENDRICKS grew up reading everything she could get her hands on- including the morning cereal boxes. That passion melded into writing as well, and by the age of 11 she was writing and binding her own “books”. Amber has worn many hats in her life, but she has always circled back to her first love of telling stories. Amber currently resides in Missouri with her husband and two children.

FOR MORE INFORMATION on Amber, follow her online:

Twitter: @ashayhen

Facebook: @AmberHendricksAuthor 

Instagram: @henamber

BUY THIS BOOK To purchase any of Amber’s books, click here.

BOOK GIVEAWAY!

Want a chance to win a copy of EXTRAORDINARY ORDINARY ELLA?! Comment on this post or share it on Twitter. One lucky winner will be selected Thursday, February 27th. US addresses only please.

Interview with Author Lydia Lukidis

Happy Thursday Critters! This is our last interview of 2019— what a year it has been! I’m so thrilled that Critter Lit had the opportunity to interview so many talented authors and illustrators in 2019 and can’t wait to dive into 2020 with you all! We have lots of exciting things planned. Thank you all for being apart of Critter Lit and our small contribution to the Kidlit community.

Today we have author Lydia Lukidis joining us. Lydia has written over 40 picture books for kids! I’m so excited to share her work and experiences with you all.

So without further ado…please welcome Lydia Lukidis!

Where do you live?

I live in Montreal, Canada. I’m a Canuck, eh!

How many years have you been in publishing?

I’ve been a freelance writing and journalist for the last 20 years, and have been exclusively writing for children since 2013. Before that, I was writing children’s plays and putting on marionette shows.

How did you first get published?

My first published trade picture book was in 2014. It was with a small independent publisher and though I didn’t make much money, it was a fantastic experience and I learned a lot about the industry.

Do you write full-time?

Yes, I write full time. My writing is split in three directions: trade writing for my own projects, writing work-for-hire projects for educational publishers, and giving literacy workshops and author visits in elementary schools. I think it’s important (and fun!) to work with children.

What inspires you to create picture books?

I love kidlit in general. I would say my favorite, so far, are chapter books. There’s something magical about creating stories for children who are just learning to read independently. That said, I also love picture books. I appreciate how you can sum up a whole story with heart and feeling in such a short read. Picture books can have quite the impact on their audience.

What surprised you the most working as an author?

I was surprised at how slow everything is, and how frequently agents/editors don’t reply. But now that I’ve been at this for a while, I totally get it. It’s a competitive industry, and agents/editors don’t have enough time either. But…it’s still slow!

What is your favorite thing about being an author?

I LOVE the fact that children get to hold my books in their hands and enjoy them. I remember when I got my first “fan mail.” A child actually took the time to write me a letter and tell me how much he adored my book. That experience blew my socks off. Sure, big advances and working with the big 5 are real dreams, but that child’s letter reminded me of what’s truly important.

What do you find difficult working as an author?

Apart from how slow the industry is, I find the constant slew of rejection challenging at times. Over the years, I’ve developed very tough skin and I don’t get phased by rejections. But when you get close, or your book goes to acquisitions but then they pass, it can sting.

What do you do to shake the rust off or get new ideas?

I’m never at a loss for new ideas. In fact, I have way too many. The discipline and magic happens when I go through the ideas, and figure out which ones have the most potential, and focus on developing those.

Anything you are habitual about when it comes to creativity?

I think it’s important for all writers to read a lot, both the classics and contemporary work. You need to keep reading, especially in your genre, as much as you can. You also need to do continual research of the industry. You need to know what’s happening, and who’s who etc. Subscribe to blogs and newsletters, get involved in online writing groups, these are essentials. Once you immerse yourself in the world, the ideas and inspiration will flow.

Can you share a positive experience you’ve had in the Kid Lit community?

They are ALL positive experiences! The writing community is very generous and kind. Writers tend to support one another, and share information and resources. For example, groups like Kidlit411 and Sub it on Facebook have literally helped shape my career.

Recommended reading?

So much! Right now, here are some I currently bought and am excited to devour:

The Girl Who Drew Butterflies: How Maria Merian's Art Changed Science by Joyce Sidman 

Who Wet My Pants? by Bob Shea 

Nine Months: Before a Baby Is Born by Miranda Paul

Merci Suárez Changes Gears by Meg Medina 

Dory Fantasmagory (entire series) by Abby Hanlon

Two Dogs in a Trench Coat (entire series) by Julie Falatko (everything she says and writes is hilarious!)

What has been the highlight of your career thus far?

My book The Broken Bees’ Nest just got nominated for a CYBILS Award! When I found out, I think I nearly fainted. It’s a big honor, especially since their picks are based on kid appeal.

What is something you wish someone had told you when you first started writing?

I wish I had become a member of SCBWI right away. I didn’t know about them for a while, and literally spent a few years compiling information about publishers. Little did I know, they send you a large comprehensive book listing publishers when you become a member.

Can you tell us about your newest book?

My book NO BEARS ALLOWED was published in July 2019 by Blue Whale Press. I’m proud of this book because it’s a story that helps cultivate empathy, which I think is very much needed in the world today. The story is about overcoming your fears, and also, not judging others. The main characters Rabbit and Bear seem quite different at first, but eventually develop an unlikely but beautiful friendship.

What’s up next for you?

I’ve been working on a lot of new projects, nonfiction seems to be my favorite passion right now. I have a new nonfiction picture I’m excited about which was vetted by several experts in the field, and have been querying agents with it. 

Anything else you’d like to share with aspiring authors and illustrators?

Here’s a lesson I learned over the years:

That even though it may sometimes feel that your actions do not get noticed, they DO MATTER. You just might not see it right away. For example, let’s say you’ve been querying some dream agents but have not been getting favorable replies. Just remember this: you never know what may happen in the future. I had this interesting experience where one of my dream agents chatted with me once, and mentioned one of my past queries. All this time, I thought my queries were getting lost in cyberspace, but- they were still being received and read. Agents and editors may feel moved by your work though they may not offer you a contract (right away). It’s often a question of timing.

The moral of the story: keep working hard towards your goals. Your path to success may not be linear, but in time, you will find your way.

And last, but not least, favorite 80s movie?

Easy, CLUE! I can’t even count how many times I’ve seen that movie. It’s completely ridiculous and right up my alley in humor.

---

Huge thank you to Lydia for joining us on Critter Lit today! Congrats on your new book and all that you have accomplished! We look forward to seeing what you do next!

---

LYDIA LUKIDIS is a children's author with a multi-disciplinary background that spans the fields of literature, science and puppetry. So far, she has 3 trade picture books, 33 eBooks, as well as over dozen educational books published. Her latest STEM book The Broken Bees’ Nest was nominated for a CYBILS Award. Lydia is also passionate about spreading the love of literacy. She regularly gives writing workshops in elementary schools across Quebec through the Culture in the Schools Program. Her aim is to help children cultivate their imagination, sharpen their writing skills and develop self-confidence.

FOR MORE INFORMATION on Lydia Lukidis, follow her on social media:

Website: http://www.lydialukidis.com/

Blog: https://lydialukidis.wordpress.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LydiaLukidis/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/LydiaLukidis

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lydialukidis/?trk=hp-identity-name

Interview with Debut Author Ashley Franklin

Happy Thursday Critters! Today, I’m thrilled to feature debut author Ashley Franklin! Her new picture book, NOT QUITE SNOW WHITE, illustrated by Ebony Glenn, released this past July with HarperCollins. I love the story, message, and charming illustrations in this book, which I think Kirkus Reviews sums up perfectly:

“A feel-good picture book and a great reminder that classic princess roles can be reimagined to embrace inclusion, diversity, and body positivity.”

So without further ado…please welcome Ashley Franklin!

Where do you live?

I currently live in northwest Arkansas. 

When did you know you wanted to write/illustrate picture books?

I didn’t know I wanted to seriously write children’s books until I had kids of my own. I wanted to write books that had characters that looked like them and their family members. I also wanted to write books that I felt I needed as a kid.

Can you share a bit about your process?

I’m a work from home mom, so my process is probably a bit unorthodox for most. For example, I don’t write every day. I spend a lot of time thinking things over in my head and taking notes on my phone.

I’m still trying to get the hang of waking up early to write, but I do find that I am most productive once the kids are in bed and I’ve chugged some coffee.

I’m a quick writer and a slow reviser when it comes to picture books because those early drafts are really me compiling those mental and phone notes and seeing what comes of them.

What do you do to shake the rust off or get new ideas?

Honestly, I do two things: watch cartoons and consult with my kids. I watch cartoons to check out popular themes and see how they’re tackled and why they worked. My kids are in elementary school, so their perception of things is still pretty spectacular.

Anything you can’t live without while you write?

A good pen! I prefer to draft using pen and paper, but I cannot stand a pen that doesn’t write smoothly!

Any authors and/or illustrators who inspire you?

Tara Lazar—I admire people who can be funny on purpose. That’s not my gift at all!

Jamilah Thompkins-Bigelow—I love her way with imagery. She’s very detail oriented and can really paint a picture. Reading her work challenges me to slow down and really be more deliberate with imagery in my own work.

Vashti Harrison—Everything she does is ridiculously gorgeous. She’s just amazing. That’s not much more you can say.

Dream project to work on?

That’s a tough call. I don’t really have an answer for that because right now I feel like any project I’m working on passionately is a dream project.

Tell us about your debut book.

NOT QUITE SNOW WHITE features a talented young girl named Tameika who is great at singing, dancing, and acting. Tameika auditions for the lead role of Princess Snow White in her school’s musical because it’s one of the few roles she hasn’t played and Snow White is her favorite princess. Unfortunately, Tameika’s confidence is shaken when her peers question if she is right for the part because of her appearance. Tameika has to decide if she will let what others say keep her from pursuing her dream role.

What’s up next for you?

I’m continuing to write picture books, but I’m expanding into middle grade. The middle grade bug bit me thanks to a middle grade short story I wrote as a contributor to an upcoming middle grade anthology. It’s called Once Upon an Eid: Stories of Hope and Joy by 15 Muslim Voices and is scheduled to be released May 5, 2020.

And last, but not least, favorite 80s movie? 

Umm...I was born in the 80s, so I’d have to go with a movie I remember most vividly, and that’s Oliver & Company.

---

Huge thank you to Ashley for stopping by Critter Lit today! Congrats on your debut book— we can’t wait to see what comes next for you!

---

ASHLEY FRANKLIN is a writer, mother, and adjunct college professor. Ashley received her M.A. from the University of Delaware in English Literature, where she reaffirmed her love of writing but realized she had NO IDEA what she wanted to do about it. Ashley currently resides in Arkansas with her family. Her debut picture book, NOT QUITE SNOW WHITE, was released July 9, 2019 by Harper Collins.

 FOR MORE INFORMATION about Ashley visit her online: www.ashleyfranklinwrites.com or follow her on social media:

Twitter: @differentashley

Instagram: @ashleyfranklinwrites

Facebook: Ashley Franklin

TO ORDER Ashley’s book, ring up your local bookstore or click here.

BOOK GIVEAWAY!

Want a chance to win a copy of NOT QUITE SNOW WHITE?! Comment on this post or share it on Twitter. One lucky winner will be selected Thursday, August 29th! US addresses only please.

Interview with Debut Author June Smalls

Happy Thursday Critters! Today’s interview is with June Smalls, whose debut picture book ODD ANIMAL ABC’S, illustrated by Claire Sedovic, released in May. We are so thrilled to have her with us today!

So without further ado…please welcome June Smalls!

Where do you live?

I live just outside of DC in the Shenandoah Valley.

When did you know you wanted to write picture books?

It’s funny, but when I first started thinking of writing for traditional publication, I thought of romance. But just because I liked to read it didn’t mean I was any good at writing it.

 When my child was little she loved books. I caught myself reading her picture books even after she’d fallen asleep. I loved the full and beautiful stories with short and pithy lines. I remembered the joy of discovering library books as a kid. Then I had one idea…it led to another… and then I couldn’t shake it. I had to write kid lit.

Tell us about your road to publication, what did that involve for you?

I’m an overnight success. It only took about 5 or 6 years to get there.

Like many writers, I had a lot to learn. My first picture books were way too long, I wasn’t leaving room for the illustrator, and I sent things out before they were ready (*The Horror!*)

Luckily, I love learning. I joined SCBWI. I joined critique groups. I attended conferences and classes. Bit by bit I improved and learned patience.

I’d gone from getting form rejections to personal rejections and finally I had two offers of rep from agents.

I signed with Rebecca Angus at Golden Wheat in 2018, sold two picture books with her and I did my first two work for hire books as well in the same year. I went from nothing for a few years to GOOD GRAVY! Four books with my name on them.

Can you share a bit about your process?

I’m weird and don’t have a single process. Some books come to me like a lightening bolt and I jot down a rough draft quickly. Some ideas need to marinate for a while. I toyed with one idea for months without writing more than the title idea.

When I write, I prefer to get comfy on my couch, noise canceling headphones go on (this also lets my family know it is writing time and not to bug me needlessly), and work on whichever project is speaking to me at the time.

What do you do to shake the rust off or get new ideas?

I tend to have a number of projects going at once unless I’m on a deadline. For me this keeps things fresh and interesting. Sometimes I just take a few days off writing and daydream instead. I do not live by the ‘write everyday’ rule. But I tend to write or research most days.

Anything you can’t live without while you write?

Not really. I love my headphones since they get me in the zone. But I’ll write anywhere and everywhere by any means necessary. On receipts in a restaurant, on my phone in a waiting room, or at my computer with a soda and dogs at my feet. I just have to write!

Any authors and/or illustrators who inspire you?

All of them! Inspiration can be found in everything. I love the humor of Ame Dykman’s Wolfie the Bunny illustrated by Zachariah OHora.

I love the read-aloud-ability of The Wonky Donkey by Craig Smith and illustrated by Katz Cowley.

I love the heart and art of Swan by Laurel Snyder and illustrated by Julie Morstad.

I LOVE The Dot by by Peter H. Reynolds.

Just try to read these without feeling inspired. There are many more, but this could be a blog series by itself.

Dream project to work on?

Well, I’m a huge Scooby Doo fan…

Seriously though, my personal dream projects are the ones that make kids want to pick up another book. Whether to continue laughing or to learn something new because I’ve sparked their curiosity. There is no one book that is my dream. This may sound corny, but it’s all I’ve got.

Tell us about your debut book.

Odd Animal ABC’s is illustrated by Claire Sedovic and her amazing watercolors.

Those classic animals have been overworked so the odd animals who have been overlooked take over the alphabet and send the classics packing.

It's time for Aye-Aye, Fossa, Numbat, Xenops and more curious, yet real animals to shine.

Some letters even get more than one odd new animal. (This was not because I liked both animals so much that I couldn't choose just one... really…)

What’s up next for you?

I have a lyrical non-fiction called She Leads: They Elephant Matriarch coming out in spring of 2020 with Familius. I also have several picture books, a chapter book, and novelty books out on submission.

And last, but not least, favorite 80s movie?

Only one!? The Princess Bride. The cast, the sword fights, the rodents of unusual size! Just a great all-around movie… oh yeah, and the love story too.

---

Huge thank you to June for stopping by Critter Lit today! Congrats on your debut and all your upcoming projects!

---

JUNE SMALLS lives in Northern Virginia with her hubby, the kid, and her own odd assortment of animals. She writes children’s literature for the trade and educational markets.

FOR MORE INFORMATION about June visit her online or follow her on social media:

Twitter: @June_Smalls

TO ORDER June’s book, ring up your local bookstore or click here.

BOOK GIVEAWAY!

Want a chance to win a copy of ODD ANIMAL ABC’S?! Comment on this post or share it on Twitter. One lucky winner will be selected Thursday, August 15th! US addresses only please.