Interview with Author Ellen Leventhal

Happy Thursday Critters! Today we have an interview with picture book author Ellen Leventhal whose newest book A FLOOD OF KINDNESS, illustrated by Blythe Russo, came out in April with WorthyKids. I’m thrilled to have Ellen with us today to talk about her new book, process, and road to publication.

So without further ado, please welcome Ellen Leventhal!

Where do you live?

Thank you so much for having me on Critterlit today! I appreciate it! 

I live in Houston, TX.

How many years have you been in publishing?

That's kind of tricky because there have been starts and stops. However, my first published book was written with a friend, Ellen Rothberg, in 2007. That certainly doesn't mean I've been writing professionally for that long (That particular book is out of print, but an updated version of it was picked up in 2017!) In my mind, 2016 or so is when I stepped out of my comfort zone and really began to submit and get feedback (both good and not so good!)

How did you first get published?

Ellen Rothberg and I won a contest! We entered a picture book writing contest and realized we had a lot to learn! So, we took classes, found critique groups, revised more times than I can count, and surprisingly won! That first book was the original version of Don't Eat the Bluebonnets. 

 What inspires you to create picture books?

EVERYTHING! I get inspiration from everywhere, but just because I’m inspired, doesn't mean every idea turns into a complete story. But that's ok. It's all part of the process. Observing nature, kids, and life in general always inspires me. I taught for many years, and those kiddos and their experiences give me ideas all the time. And, of course, all the wonderful children's books I read inspire me daily. 

What surprised you the most working as an author?

What surprised me the most when I was starting out was how much I didn't know! I'm still learning. A happy surprise was all the support and camaraderie I found in the Kid Lit community. 

What is your favorite thing about being an author?

School visits and the friends I've made in Kid Lit are high on my list of favorite things. I cannot wait to get back into schools for in-person visits. They keep me going. I also love the flexibility of my work hours. I had zero flexibility when I taught full-time (although I loved what I did). Now, if there is something I want to or must do during the day, I can do it. I just try to arrange my schedule so I can still get work done. 

What do you find difficult working as an author?

As much as I love what I do, there are definitely some things that are difficult for me. Working from home is great for the flexibility, but it also offers challenges. After all, there are always other things to do when you're at home (and the pantry full of snacks for my grandkids is just a few steps away), so, unless I have a hard deadline, focusing on a writing task can sometimes be a challenge.  

As far as the actual writing and submitting, I have trouble letting go. It's hard for me to get to a point where I feel ready to submit something. I am a serial reviser, and although that can be good sometimes, I know I must hit that "send" button at some point. 

Anything you are habitual about when it comes to creativity?

I'm trying hard to develop some good habits, but the only one I can think of now is reading, reading, reading. For me, creativity comes in spurts, and I don't always know when something will hit me. So, although I don't have any great habits that help, I have become more open to allowing free-flowing ideas to enter my head and have become a bit less self-editing in the very early stages of a manuscript. I try to let the creativity flow and worry about revision later. (But as a serial reviser, that’s difficult!)

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

That's an easy one because I would not still be writing if it weren't for the Kid Lit community. Meeting friends along the way has been a huge boost! My critique groups are invaluable, and when I had a virtual launch for a book this past April, so many friends from the Kid Lit community were there for support. You, Lindsay, are a case in point. Thank you for supporting so many of us on our journey.

What has been the highlight of your career thus far?

There have been so many wonderful things, but when my latest book, A Flood of Kindness, was released, the virtual launch with friends from all over the country was a highlight for sure. I was disappointed when I realized that after a year of COVID, my release would still be during the pandemic, and thus, virtual, but it turned out well. Although that was definitely a highlight, I can't put my finger on the highlight of my career. Each time I leave a school with that feeling of "They got it" that's a highlight. Whenever I connect teachers, librarians, and kids, that's a highlight. I'm sorry I didn't answer your question, but I can't choose just one.  

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

I wish someone would have shared ways they handled rejection and enlightened me on the importance of support from the Kid Lit community. I knew that rejection would be a big part of this business, but I didn't understand how big a piece. Of course, now that I know it's just part of the process, I've developed ways to handle it, and I am generally able to shrug it off. Of course, that does not mean that I like it or that I don't need chocolate after a rejection, but I know it's just part of the deal, and I don't (usually  ) take it personally. I may wallow a bit, but I am able to move on. 

Can you tell us about your newest book?

My book, A Flood of Kindness was released this past April, and although it's fictional, it was inspired by real events. My house flooded three times in less than three years. After the first flood, I remembered Mr. Rogers's words to "Look for the helpers." It was easy to find them! Having written a few other books by then, a lot of people told me that I should write a kids' book about the flood. I knew if I ever did write one, it would be focused on the kindness that surrounded us, since it flowed as freely as the floodwaters. It wasn't until the third flood, Hurricane Harvey in 2017, that I decided maybe I should try to write something that validates children's feelings as well as empowering them with the knowledge that by small acts of kindness, they can help themselves and others. I felt like it was a thin line to walk, but I'm happy with how it turned out. The illustrations by Blythe Russo told so much of the story.

Interior art from A FLOOD OF KINDNESS by Ellen Leventhal, illustrated by Blythe Russo

Interior art from A FLOOD OF KINDNESS by Ellen Leventhal, illustrated by Blythe Russo

What's up next for you?

I'm working on several other picture books now as well as trying my hand at a chapter book which is fun. I do have one of those vague announcements about a book coming out in 2023. It's a picture book biography that I am proud of. I can't wait to officially share the news. 

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

I'm sure I don't have anything that they haven't heard before, but I'll repeat the "mantra" of persistence and patience. Also, continue to work on your craft. I consider all the classes I take, webinars I listen to, etc. as professional development. Stay updated with the market, but write YOUR story, as opposed to writing to the trends.

Lastly (and this was and still is hard for me), try to develop a thick skin and understand that rejections or "harsh" words aren't personal. This is from the person who would cry if someone looked at her sideways when she was in school! It's hard, but find a group of like-minded people, and they will be there to cheer you on and be there for you. As I said, I wish I had known how important getting to know people in the kid lit community would be when I first started out. I may have weathered some of the early rejections better. At least I would have had people I could commiserate with.

And remember, there are a lot of ways to pursue your dream. Investigate, evaluate, and take the road best fit for your particular journey.

And last but not least, favorite 80s movie?

I couldn't remember what movies were from the 80s, so I had to look them up. WOW! ! There were so many that I can't pick one. Sorry, that seems like a theme in this interview. Don’t make me pick one!” A few I love are "Field of Dreams", "ET", and Indiana Jones movies. But there are so many more! 

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Huge thank you to Ellen for stopping by Critter Lit today! Congrats on A FLOOD OF KINDNESS!

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ELLEN LEVENTHAL is an educator and writer in Houston, TX. Ellen is the co-author of Don’t Eat the Bluebonnets, a 2017 Mighty Girls pick ( 2017 Clear Fork Publishing), the author of Lola Can’t Leap (2018 Clear Fork Publishing)  and A Flood of Kindness, ( 2021 WorthyKids/Hachette Book Group). She has been published in magazines and newspapers, as well as in poetry and short story anthologies. Ellen frequently presents at schools and has been featured on both TV and radio. When visiting schools, she coordinates with and supports literacy programs as well as diversity and anti-bullying programs. Ellen’s best days are when she can interact directly with the students and spread her love of literacy and kindness. To find out more about Ellen’s books and writing projects, please go to www.Ellenleventhal.com 

ORDER THIS BOOK To order a copy of A FLOOD OF KINDNESS, click here.

WIN A COPY! Want to win a copy of A FLOOD OF KINDNESS?! Leave a COMMENT below or RETWEET this post on Twitter. One lucky winner will be announced on Thursday, August 5th! US addresses only please.

Interview with Author Ana Siqueira

Happy Thursday Critters! Today we have an interview an author who is releasing her first book here in the states, BELLA’S RECIPE FOR SUCCESS, illustrated by Geraldine Rodriguez, with Beaming Books, but began her writing career in Brazil, where her first books were published. I’m thrilled to have her with us today to share her road to publication, experiences, and upcoming books.

So without further ado, please welcome Ana Siqueira!

Where do you live?

I live in Palm Harbor, Florida. 

When did you know you wanted to write picture books?

I always loved creating stories, but my teachers didn’t motivate me since they thought my stories were too confusing, too much going on. Hahaha. I still have that problem, but with the help of my critique partners, I have been able to learn how to streamline.

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

I had two books published in Brazil, a loooong time ago. But when I moved to this country in 1992, I stopped writing for a looong time. I just restarted writing in 2019 when I wrote my Spanish Easy Reader - EL PATO QUIERE UVAS. I then got motivated to start writing picture books. I studied a lot, read many books, took courses, and watched zillions of webinars. I also got into many critique groups. 

So in September, I participated in a pitmad Twitter. I got a like from Naomi Krueger- Beaming Books. I sent her my story a few hours before my mami died. In November, I got an offer. In December, I got my agent Andrea Walker. And that’s how my debut book BELLA’S RECIPE FOR SUCCESS was born. 

Can you share a bit about your process?

I used to be a pantser, but now I write my ideas and let them marinate in my head. Each time I have an idea for a scene or a sentence, I jot it down in a Google Doc. When I have enough information I outline my story. And only then I write it. It helped me cutting from 1000 revisions to about 30. Then it’s time to submit to my critique partners. I’m in five critique groups. 

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

I love participating in Storystorm. But also, I get ideas by reading a lot and by watching my grandkids playing. Most of my ideas come from my memories. 

Anything you can’t live without while you write?

My Google Docs. I love being able to write, make a copy, write a new version, etc. Also, I can’t survive without my critique partners.

Any authors and/or illustrators who inspire you?

I love all books from Anika Denise and Monica Brown. Elisa Chavarri, the illustrator from my Abuela’s Capa book, is an illustrator that inspires me. Irena Freitas, the illustrator from my Bruja’s book, is also amazing. I also get inspired by the stories from my critique partners. 

Dream project to work on?

A TV show with one of my characters. That would be amazing. 

Tell us about your debut book.

I got this inspiration from my gifted and perfectionist daughter. It is about Bella and how she quits what she barely tries because she feels she is desastre. She asks her Abuela to help her with baking, but her polovorones are as hard as a rock. She is not good at anything, she thinks. But Bella will learn that making mistakes is part of the process and that practice makes it perfect or almost perfect. 

Interior art from BELLA’S RECIPE FOR SUCCESS by Ana Siqueira, illustrated by Geraldine Rodriguez with Beaming Books

What’s up next for you?

I have other books coming in 2022, 2023, and 2024. Now, I’m learning to write Chapter books and Nonfiction. 

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

I love so many. But my child’s heart still loves E.T. I also love all Eddie Murphy’s movies such as Coming to America and Trading Places.

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Huge thank you to Ana for stopping by Critter Lit today! Congrats on your debut in the states! We are so excited to share your work!

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ANA SIQUEIRA is a Spanish-language elementary teacher, an award-winning Brazilian children’s author, and is published in the Foreign Language educational market – EL PATO QUIERE UVAS. Her forthcoming picture books include BELLA’S RECIPE FOR DISASTER/SUCCESS (Beaming Books, 2021) and IF YOUR BABYSITTER IS A BRUJA/CUANDO TU NIÑERA ES UNA BRUJA (SimonKids,2022), ABUELA’S SUPER CAPA/ LA SUPER CAPA DE ABUELA (HarperCollins, 2023) and one more book to be announced. Besides writing, Ana loves to read, teach, and play with her Cuban-Brazilian-American grandchildren. T

FOR MORE INFORMATION about Ana visit her online or follow her on Twitter: @SraSiqueira1307

ORDER THIS BOOK To order a copy of BELLA’S RECIPE FOR SUCCESS click here.

WIN A COPY! Want to win a copy of BELLA’S RECIPE FOR SUCCESS?! Leave a COMMENT below or RETWEET this post on Twitter. One lucky winner will be announced on Thursday, July 22nd! US addresses only please.

Interview with Debut Author Kristy Everington

Happy Thursday Critters! Today we have a fantastic interview with a debut author whose book ISOBEL ADDS IT UP, illustrated by AG Ford, just released this past June with Random House Studio. I’m thrilled to have her with us today to talk about her debut, road to publication, and process.

So without further ado, please welcome Kristy Everington!

Where do you live?

I’m from Perth, Australia, and now live in the San Francisco Bay Area. It’s a beautiful area  – I enjoy all of the local wildlife, especially the tiny baby deer right now! And we have a neighborhood owl, Howard. 

When did you know you wanted to write picture books?

I discovered picture books when I was studying for my MFA in Writing for Children and Young Adults at Vermont College of Fine Arts. I came into the program writing young adult fiction and hadn’t even really read any picture books! In my first semester, I had Kathi Appelt as my advisor, and thought it would be a waste not to try picture books with a picture book master! 

I invested my time in reading and writing picture books, and fell in love! There’s so much to love in the picture book space – the brevity of the stories, the interplay between the text and art, the humor, the heart. I’ve learned a lot of things I didn’t know from reading non-fiction picture books too – I firmly believe picture books aren’t just for children!

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

After I finished studying, I started going to conferences and learning more about the business side of writing. I spent a lot of time researching agents and how to go about querying them. I started querying with other picture books first and then moved onto Isobel Adds It Up. It was one of the very first picture books I had written, but it went through a lot of revisions before I started querying it!

I had just revised it at the Big Sur Writing Workshop when I sent the first query for that manuscript to my now-agent, Jordan Hamessley. It was the first manuscript we put on submission to editors. It went through some more revisions before selling. It sounds simple when you summarize it, but it all took a lot of time and there was definitely a lot of angst involved! 

Can you share a bit about your process?

I write picture books by hand first. I like to write with a pencil rather than a pen – there’s something freeing about the pencil not being permanent and having the ability to erase what I’ve written! I often think of titles first. It usually doesn’t take very long to write a first draft, but then it can take some time to hone the story. 

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

I go for daily walks around the neighborhood, and there’s always lots of things to see and think about. Ideas come from everywhere, so just paying attention to news stories, pop culture, and regular happenings in life gives me ideas. My cats alone give me lots of inspiration for stories!

Anything you can’t live without while you write?

I like to light a candle and have a cup of tea. My favorite writing tea is white tea with pomegranate, but it’s been discontinued and my supply is dwindling so I need to find a replacement!

Any authors and/or illustrators who inspire you?

So many! Some of my favorites are Oliver Jeffers, Carolyn Crimi, Jon Klassen, Sophie Blackall, Sean Ferrell, and Mac Barnett.

Dream project to work on?

One of the very first picture books I wrote was based on my cats when they were kittens called Chicken Face and Lily, and I have dreams of that being made into a picture book series and maybe even a TV show! I would never get sick of writing about their adventures.

Tell us about your debut book.

Isobel Adds It Up, illustrated by the talented A.G. Ford, is about a girl who loves math, but she is interrupted by the ruckus caused by her mysterious new neighbors. The inspiration came from my own noisy neighbors, which is something I think a lot of people can relate to after spending the last year at home!

Interior art from ISOBEL ADDS IT UP by Kristy Everington, illustrated by AG Ford with Random House Studio

Interior art from ISOBEL ADDS IT UP by Kristy Everington, illustrated by AG Ford with Random House Studio

What’s up next for you?

I’m working on a few picture book ideas – mostly funny ones with animals. 

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

Ooh, it’s a toss up between Dirty Dancing and The Lost Boys, but I will have to say Dirty Dancing. My friends and I were all obsessed with it when it first came out. I even saw Dirty Dancing: Havana Nights at the cinema when it came out. My friend who I saw it with swore me to secrecy because she was embarrassed (sorry, Al)!

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Huge thank you to Kristy for stopping by Critter Lit! Congrats on your debut!

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Originally from Perth, Australia, KRISTY EVERINGTON now lives in the San Francisco Bay Area with her husband and quite a lot of cats. She enjoys exploring the California coastline and visiting as many lighthouses as she can. Kristy holds an MFA in Writing for Children and Young Adults from Vermont College of Fine Arts.

FOR MORE INFORMATION visit Kristy online: https://www.kristyeverington.com/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/kmeverington

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kristyeverington/

ORDER THIS BOOK To order a copy ISOBEL ADDS IT UP, click here.

WIN A COPY! Want to win a copy of ISOBEL ADDS IT UP?! Leave a COMMENT below or RETWEET this post on Twitter. One lucky winner will be announced on Thursday, July 15th. US addresses only please.

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Interview with Debut Author Anna Lazowski

Happy Thursday Critters! Can you believe it’s July already?!! I’m so excited about today’s interview because our author’s debut picture book is one that I’ve been waiting to come out for some time. I love the hook, concept, art, and humor! This book has it all! I’m thrilled to have her with us today and can’t wait for you to hear all about her hilarious new picture book, T. REXES CAN’T TIE THEIR SHOES, illustrated by Steph Laberis.

So without further ado, please welcome Anna Lazowski!

Where do you live?

I live in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada. 

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

I think I always knew in the back of my mind I wanted to write, and I've always loved picture books. A well-executed picture book is such an incredible thing, they seem so deceptively simple to write but are actually anything but. They have to be entertaining, and be something kids and adults want to go back to. They have to communicate complex subject matter in simple, elegant ways. Some of my favourite books ever are picture books so I guess it makes sense I began my career as a writer trying to capture that magic. 

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

It's one of those fairytale stories that's actually hard to believe. I participated in a Twitter pitch contest, #PBPitch, in June 2019, with a pitch I'd used before with no success. But during that event it got one like. Just one. That like happened to come from Frances Gilbert, an editor at Doubleday. I sent the manuscript off to her and prepared for a long wait. Then an email came back from her an hour later offering to acquire T. REXES CAN'T TIE THEIR SHOES. For me it was a combination of luck, timing, and having a strong enough concept to catch her attention as she scrolled through the feed.   

Can you share a bit about your process?

My process is pretty simple, I get an idea - often for a title or concept and things unfold from there. If I'm writing NF, I lean on my background in journalism and do a pile of research before diving into the first draft. If I'm writing fiction I just sit down and start. Sometimes an entire arc will pop into my head and I just have to try to get it down without wrecking it!

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

I have folders full of ideas, that's not the problem. For me there's sometimes a bit of paralysis when the manuscript is almost done but I have to do one final revision before I can consider it complete. Sometimes those drafts wait awhile for me to be inspired to come back and wrap them up. It feels like I have to wait for the right moment or I'll just be sitting there staring at the screen. 

Anything you can’t live without while you write/draw?

I'm so used to snatching bits of time here and there I can write pretty much anywhere at any time. It's a useful skill. 

Any authors and/or illustrators who inspire you?

So many!! I love the work The Fan Brothers do, and I love how Dev Petty's writing seems so effortless (which it obviously isn't). I have a background in fine arts and have been enjoying reading through a bunch of Amy Guglielmo's work and love what Elly MacKay does with her illustration. I also love reading unpublished work by up and coming writers when I do critique giveaways because I get to read something only a handful of people have seen. 

Dream project to work on?

That's an interesting question, I think the initial dream was just getting published. But I've always loved books that walk the line between light and darkness, so I'd like to find a way to explore those themes a bit in a way that works. I have a deep fondness for weird kids and strange situations so I'd love to delve into that a bit more. 

Tell us about your debut book.

My debut book, T. REXES CAN'T TIE THEIR SHOES, was expertly illustrated by Steph Laberis, and is an ABC book that looks at all the things kids can do that animals can't. The images show animals failing at things like riding a bicycle or flipping a pancake, but it turns all those negative experiences into a reminder that it's okay not to be good at something right away. Which I think is a useful message for kids and their parents. 

Interior art from T. REXES CAN’T TIE THEIR SHOES Shoes by Anna Lazowski, illustrated by Steph Laberis

Interior art from T. REXES CAN’T TIE THEIR SHOES Shoes by Anna Lazowski, illustrated by Steph Laberis

What’s up next for you?

I have a pile of stories that are submission or close to submission ready so I'll be pecking away at those over the summer. And my second picture book, DARK CLOUD, was acquired by Kids Can Press and is scheduled for a Spring 2023 release. The illustrator hasn't been announced yet but I am already so excited for that book to be out in the world too!!!

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

This is the hardest question actually. I rewatched a bunch of John Hughes movies recently and was disappointed to see they really hadn't aged well. So today, I'm going to go with a tie between two that actually capture my personality pretty well: Labyrinth and Lost Boys. And can I give Pretty In Pink an honorable mention just for Jon Cryer's character Duckie? So good!

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Huge thank you to Anna for stopping by Critter Lit today! We are so excited for your debut and can’t wait to see DARK CLOUD when it releases in 2023!

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ANNA LAZOWSKI wrote her first picture book for a class assignment in the sixth grade and has been creating stories ever since. Now an award-winning radio producer, Anna has an MA (Journalism) from the University of Western Ontario and a BFA (Hons.) from the University of Manitoba. Anna’s debut picture book, T. REXES CAN’T TIE THEIR SHOES (Doubleday Books for Young Readers), illustrated by Steph Laberis, is launching in spring of 2021. Her second book, DARK CLOUD, (Kids Can Press) will be published in spring of 2023. Her journalistic work has been published in various newspapers and magazines, and she has been a nationally syndicated radio columnist covering music and health. She lives in Winnipeg, Manitoba with her husband Mike, their kids, and their dog Jackson.

FOR MORE INFORMATION visit Anna online: https://www.annalazowskibooks.com/

Or follow her on Twitter: https://twitter.com/anna_lazowski

ORDER THIS BOOK To order a copy T. REXES CAN’T TIE THEIR SHOES, click here.

WIN A COPY! Want to win a copy of T. REXES CAN’T TIE THEIR SHOES?! Leave a COMMENT below or RETWEET this post on Twitter. One lucky winner will be announced on Thursday, July 8th. US addresses only please.

Interview with Author Norene Paulson

Happy Thursday Critters! Today we have an interview with author Norene Paulson, who debuted her first book, BENNY’S TRUE COLORS, illustrated by Anne Passchier, during the pandemic, quickly followed up by her second, WHAT’S SILLY HAIR DAY WITH NO HAIR?, illustrated by Camila Carrossine, which just released this past March! So exciting! I’m thrilled to have Norene with us today to talk about her road to publication, books, and process.

So without further ado, please welcome Norene Paulson!

Where do you live?

I live almost in the center of Iowa on a country acreage just north of Lynnville, a small town about 45 miles east of Des Moines.  

When did you know you wanted to write picture books?

I fell in love with picture books while reading Berenstain Bears books and Mercer Mayer’s Little Critter books to my young sons. I loved the merging of the words and pictures and the cadence of the sparse text as the words tumbled off my tongue.  I was the one who most often wanted to “read it again”. I’ve always loved to write and I’ve always loved to read, so at some point, it just clicked and I thought…I want to do THIS.

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

My road to publication was long and bumpy with a lot of detours. When I knew I wanted to write for children I signed up for a couple ICL courses where I received the encouragement I needed to believe maybe I really could do this, and because of those courses, I did. I sold nonfiction articles to multiple children’s magazines. However, once I started teaching full-time my writing lapsed. I lost contact with my magazine editors. When I decided to take start writing again, I thought back to those Berenstain Bear and Little Critter books and my original dream of writing picture books, so I joined SCBWI, found some critique partners, started submitting, and acquired piles and piles of rejections, but I didn’t quit. I took an early retirement from teaching in 2017 and that’s when things took off…literally three decades after I decided I wanted to write picture books. In Feb. 2018, I landed an agent through #PBPitch and in less than 6 weeks, my debut story, BENNY’S TRUE COLORS, sold to Imprint/Macmillan. 

Can you share a bit about your process?

Sure, it’s a bit hit ‘n miss. I’m a big-time procrastinator so an idea will spin around in my head for quite a while until I have mentally fleshed out a rough beginning, middle, and end. Then it’s time for the first draft which takes as long as it takes. Some are drafted quickly. Others not so much. Once the first draft is done (huge sigh of relief) the fun begins…revising. After feedback from various critique groups, I revise, rewrite, revise, and rewrite for as long as it takes to shape the idea into a polished story. 

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

New ideas usually globber me over the head. Something I see, read, or hear sparks an idea. I never know when it will happen so have to be prepared to jot it down when it does or it’s gone. I envy people who are creative enough to elicit ideas “on demand”. Needless to say, I’m not a good candidate for any story idea-generating challenges.

Anything you can’t live without while you write?

My laptop. When I started writing I wrote all my drafts in long-hand but can’t even imagine doing that now. I also enjoy tea…hot or iced depending on the season.

Any authors and/or illustrators who inspire you?

The kidlit world is filled with so many amazingly talented authors and illustrators I couldn’t list them all. However, my critique partners are the writers who keep me writing. Reading their early drafts and witnessing the process of how they develop those into amazing picture books is what keeps me inspired and motivated. It’s a privilege to be a small part of that process, and their spot-on feedback keeps me moving forward with my own writing.

Dream project to work on?

I’d love to do a sequel to WHAT’S SILLY HAIR DAY WITH NO HAIR? maybe even a series. I’ve developed quite a fondness for Bea, the main character, and would love to see where other adventures take her and her BBF Shaleah.

Tell us about your debut book.

My debut picture book, BENNY’S TRUE COLORS, released in Nov. 2020 and is the story of Benny, a bat, who knows inside he’s really a butterfly. This book highlights friendship, inclusion, empowerment, and living authentically. In simplest term--don’t judge someone by their outward appearance.

My second book, WHAT SILLY HAIR DAY WITH NO HAIR? released March 23 and it, too, is a story of empowerment, friendship, and inclusion. Bea, a girl with alopecia, has to figure out a way to participate in her school’s Silly Hair Day when she doesn’t have any hair. 

Interior art from WHAT’S SILLY HAIR DAY WITH NO HAIR? by Norene Paulson, illustrated by Camila Carrossine

Interior art from WHAT’S SILLY HAIR DAY WITH NO HAIR? by Norene Paulson, illustrated by Camila Carrossine

What’s up next for you?

I’m back out on submission with several newer manuscripts. Very excited about several in-person events I have scheduled this summer. Since both books published during the pandemic, I missed out on traditional book promoting opportunities, so really looking forward to being out among people (masked, of course).

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

Ha! Seems like the only 1980s movies I watched were kids’ movies. Ghostbusters is probably the one I watched the most simply because my boys loved everything Ghostbusters My personal favorite movie is a 1999 movie, The Sixth Sense. I was literally dumbfounded by the ending. I didn’t catch any of the foreshadowing. 

Thanks so much for featuring me on Critter Lit. It’s been fun!

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Huge thank you to Norene for stopping by Critter Lit today! Congrats on your back to back releases! We can’t wait to see what you write next!

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NORENE PAULSON loves words. As a former language arts teacher, she was fortunate to share that love with middle school students in a rural Iowa school district for almost twenty years. Now, as a picture book author, she writes stories that celebrate friendship, acceptance, and inclusion. She is the author of BENNY’S TRUE COLORS (Macmillan/Imprint, November 2020) and WHAT’S SILLY HAIR DAY WITH NO HAIR? (Albert Whitman, March 2021). Norene lives on an acreage with her husband and rescue pup, Ellie, and when she isn’t reading or writing, you will find her playing—you guessed it! —word games.

Visit Norene online at: www.norenepaulson.com

Or follow her on social media:

Instagram - nrpaulson

Twitter - NorenePaulson

ORDER THIS BOOK To order a copy Norene’s books click here.

WIN A COPY! Want to win a copy of WHAT’S SILLY HAIR DAY WITH NO HAIR?! Leave a COMMENT below or RETWEET this post on Twitter. One lucky winner will be announced on Thursday, June 24th! US addresses only please.

Interview with Debut Author Corey Finkle

Happy Thursday Critters! Today we have debut author Corey Finkle with us to talk about his road to publication, debut picture book, and much more! I’m so excited about Corey’s debut, YOUR FUTURE IS BRIGHT, illustrated by Shelley Couvillion, a rhyming, graduation themed picture book that follows a group of children as they dream about their futures, which just released with Henry Holt. It’s a fantastic new book and perfect for any little one who dreams big, getting ready for their bright futures!

So without further ado, please welcome Corey Finkle!

Where do you live?

I live in Rhode Island, just outside of Providence.

 When did you know you wanted to write picture books?

Not only was I the oldest kid in my house, I was also the oldest in my generation of grandkids, so I grew up taking care of kids. When I was in college, while spending time with my two-year-old cousin, I read him one of his favorite picture books. At one point, the main character looks at the Northern Lights, and he said to me “Is that the Aurora Borealis?” I was blown away. I barely knew what that was, but because of a picture book, this little boy had it cemented into his mind. From that day on, I dreamed of one day writing a book that might inspire other little kids to learn something that they might not otherwise know.

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

That very year, I wrote my first picture book manuscript for college credit, and then basically spent the next twelve years occasionally sending it out to a few agents, and waiting to be discovered.

 About ten years ago, I realized that I needed to get serious if I really wanted this dream to come true, so I finally started taking the advice that everyone always tells you, but I had theretofore ignored. I started writing (a LOT) more, joined a critique group, signed up for SCBWI and began attending their events, and really invested my time, energy (and occasionally money) into cultivating this skill.

 I got my first lucky break in 2016 when I attended a writer’s retreat, and hit it off with someone who turned out to be a guest speaker, who turned out to be an editor. He invited me to send him some manuscripts (I had dozens by this point), and when he liked what he read, he helped me get an agent. (I had spent five years querying constantly; one week after this interaction, I had three offers!)

 My agent (the great Sean McCarthy from McCarthy Lit) basically broke me down as a writer and built me back up again, only sending books out when they were READY. And while the first few didn’t sell, we seemed to get closer each time. After the fourth one, we received feedback that, while that book was a pass, the editor wanted a graduation book and liked how I wrote in rhyme, and so would I like to have a crack at it? I said yes, and about five months later, Your Future is Bright was sold.

Can you share a bit about your process?

In general, when I come up with an idea, the first thing I try to do is come up with an ending. Those are always the hardest part of any story, so if the idea can’t lead to a fun, satisfying, and hopefully surprising ending, I tend to let it go.

If the idea sticks, I then have to decide if it’s a rhyming book or not. To me some concepts benefit from the structure and discipline that comes with a rhyme scheme, while others need more freedom.

From there, I’ll begin writing. This means giving myself permission to write a terrible first draft, so that I can see what flows and works, and what doesn’t.

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

For new ideas, I just try to keep my ears open, and workshop everything. In any given day, I’ll probably hear 3-5 turns of phrase that I think could be potential PB titles. Most of them won’t pan out at all, but I find that thinking them through keeps me in a creative space most of the time.

 As for rust, I am pretty forgiving of bad writing days. I was at a book signing years ago with Pulitzer Prize-winning author Michael Chabon, and someone asked him about his process. He said that he hated to START to write, but that once he got into it, he got over that initial feeling. This has always meant a great deal to me. If someone as accomplished as him can feel that way about something he is so great at, then it’s surely okay for me to feel the same way on occasion, right? But like him, once I get started, I always feel good, even if I only end up with one or two good lines. It’s a slow business, so there’s never any rush, you know?

 Anything you can’t live without while you write?

I am VERY strict with myself when I write in rhyme. It is a huge pet peeve of mine, when I’m reading rhyming books to kids, if the author has left a lot of work for the reader to do. In other words, if the meter changes halfway through, or the meter is inconsistent from line to line, verse to verse, or anything else happens to make you stop and have to figure out the right way the line flows, it drives me crazy!

So for me, I want my reader to hear my rhythm from the start and then get carried off into the story like a current on a river. For that reason, I always have a thesaurus and a rhyming dictionary (or a web equivalent) with me while writing, so that I can keep working with a verse or idea until it meets my requirements.

 Any authors and/or illustrators who inspire you?

I am honestly and truly inspired by all the writers I meet at conferences, both published and pre-published, who remain dedicated to their craft throughout all the ups and downs of this at times brutal industry.

But in terms of a singular writer or work, the truth is that I think Norton Juster’s The Phantom Tollbooth is just about the most brilliant piece of fiction I’ve ever read. (Seriously, if you only read it as a child, have another look). It’s not only a cool story, but it’s also clever, witty, and extremely profound. At some level, every book I write is an attempt to try (and fail) to write something even half as good.  

Dream project to work on?

While you can’t necessarily tell this from my debut book which is more of an “ode to childhood” than a traditional story, I tend to come up with high-concept plots for my ideas that I fall madly in love with, and then get told they’re too advanced for the PB audience. (I recently pitched a concept as “Indiana Jones meets Ocean’s Eleven, by way of Sliding Doors”). I would love to one day get the green light to prove that even younger kids would love a great story, even if they contain advanced concepts like pirate ghosts, or the Aurora Borealis.

And when I do, I hope Dan Santat gets to illustrate.

Tell us about your debut book.

Your Future is Bright is an ode to childhood and the potential that every kid has within them.

When I was first asked to come up with a graduation book, my first thing I thought of was how scared I was about the prospect of becoming an adult, and how much hard work was coming my way. So my first draft tried to address that fear by saying “Don’t be scared about how you’ll do in the future, because I’VE seen how far you’ve already come, and that journey was MUCH harder!” and then providing all the examples of how they’d developed from a helpless baby into the capable person they are today.

Interior art from YOUR FUTURE IS BRIGHT by Corey Finkle, Illustrated by Shelley Couvillion

My agent gently pointed out that a graduation book should look to the future and not the past. That’s how the story evolved to what it is today, where we look at various gifts and interests that make kids special and unique today, and sort of speculate about how that MIGHT inform who they become as they grow up.

What’s up next for you?

I just recently signed my second book deal for Pop’s Perfect Present, a story about a girl who sets out to give her dad one perfect memory as a gift for being so great, but ultimately learns that she succeeded in her effort just by spending the day with him. In addition, I’m working on several concepts (I have 4-5 in various stages of development at this point), and we’re waiting to hear about a few others as well.

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

I’m tempted to say The Goonies, or Superman II, or Batman, or any of the movies that I loved when I was young, but I can’t. Field of Dreams is the one. Amazing story with an ending that gets me EVERY SINGLE TIME.

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Huge thank you to Corey for stopping by Critter Lit today! Congrats on your debut!

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COREY FINKLE wrote his first children’s book as a senior project in college. From there he spent ten years tinkering with and pitching it, and finally put it aside after he realized it wasn’t actually very good at all. Corey sold his first book, Your Future is Bright, almost 20 years to the day after completing that senior project. Between those two decades were a lot of manuscripts, and a LOT of revisions. When not working on his next book, Corey spends his time writing business-y words for companies, enjoying life with his wife and two kids, or collecting t-shirts from unusual or lesser-known sports teams.

Visit Corey online at www.CoreyFinkle.com

ORDER THIS BOOK To order a copy of YOUR FUTURE IS BRIGHT click here.

WIN A COPY! Want to win a signed copy of YOUR FUTURE IS BRIGHT?! Leave a COMMENT below or RETWEET this post on Twitter. One lucky winner will be announced on Thursday, June 17th! US addresses only please.

Interview with Debut Author Tina Shepardson

Happy Thursday Critters! Today we have an interview with a debut author whose book, WALKOUT, illustrated by Terry Sirrell, takes on the topic of school safety for kids. I’m thrilled to have her with us today to talk about her road to publication and process of taking on such a difficult topic in a picture book.

So without further ado, please welcome Tina Shepardson!

Where do you live?

Syracuse, New York.

When did you know you wanted to write picture books?

Since grade school in the 70s, I wrote stories, tied them with string, and shared them with children I babysat for. After college, I started teaching. I was so busy teaching my students books, I didn’t have the time to write my own, but I did keep a journal of ideas for a some day. 

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

In 2016, I began to carve out consistent writing time. In addition, I began looking for courses to learn the craft and for critique and professional writing groups. This way i could learn from them as well as help them with their craft. I participated in The Children’s Book Academy The Craft of Writing Picture Books and joined the 12x12 Writing Group. Both were so instrumental in me learning from others and meeting my current critique partners. I wrote several different drafts and was open to all the ways the piece needed to improve as well as the ways I needed to grow as a writer. 

Can you share a bit about your process?

Sure! I have taught English Language Arts for 33 years so I have many planners to choose from when brainstorming a story. Once I have notes organized onto a graphic organizer, I let it sit while I look at several mentor texts to help me determine a possible structure or format that may work with a particular piece. After the first draft is written, I leave it alone for a week so that when I return, I am reading it with fresh eyes. Once I revise it to the best of my abilities, I submit it to my critiques groups and look forward to their wonderful suggestions. So often they see things that I may not see on my own. Once I have their feedback, I continue to revise and then write it out on Post-its. I have a PB template on my wall so once all the Post-its are on the pages of the template, I can read it aloud, listen to the pacing, etc. 

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

Teaching and parenting have been amazing opportunities to find ideas. Simply listening  and working with children there are so many ideas. Also, participating in Tara Lazar’s Story Storm each January is such an inspirational experience. Each day, a different author presents an idea for finding ideas and topics to write about, These talented and diverse authors provide so many creative strategies for spotting more ideas. 

Anything you can’t live without while you write?

Great question! I have to have The Children’s Word Book and The Emotion Thesaurus. Of course there has to be a few snacks, so chocolate chip cookies or Lindt’s dark orange chocolate squares are nearby but only if I have completed section or accomplished a certain goal.

Any authors and/or illustrators who inspire you?

Yes! When I was a child, my favorite characters were found in E. B. White’s books Stuart Little and Charlotte’s Web, A. A. Milne’s Winnie The Pooh, and Arnold Lobel’s Frog and Toad series. These characters were staples in my life. I adored their stories, the illustrations and their journneys, and the messages they shared. Throughout my teaching career, I bring these stories into lessons and our character education programs.

Dream project to work on?

I would absolutely love for a book to become a series and eventually a program for kids. This would provide more opportunities to make a difference and be in contact with children in ways that help them grow and become their best version of themselves. I think about this all of the time!

Tell us about your debut book.

In 1999, when Columbine experienced tragic school violence, my students and I sent them (and other schools like Sandy Hook) care packages of poems and seed packets to express our care and compassion to the communities. By the time the shooting in Parkland, Florida occurred in 2018, I was taking children’s writing courses. I didn’t find picture books helping kids understand they could advocate for safe schools in positive, proactive ways that united others and thought perhaps I could write one. Once I did, around that same time, I found a NYT article that really helped me structure it the way it needed based on the true events of the article itself. I was so excited to find this.

Interior art from WALKOUT by Tina Shepardson, Illustrated by Terry Sirrell

Interior art from WALKOUT by Tina Shepardson, Illustrated by Terry Sirrell

Walkout is a picture book inspired by a true story. Walkout shows democracy in action as Maddie organizes a safe school’s anti-violence walkout. Other kids throughout the States are walking out. But Maddie’s principal has announced that only older grades can participate. At the same time, Maddie’s best friend Stella is too scared to help. Readers wonder if Stella will find her courage and join Maddie in walking out. 

Interior art from WALKOUT by Tina Shepardson, Illustrated by Terry Sirrell

What’s up next for you?

In early 2022, I have a chapter book releasing with Clear Fork Publishing entitled Canines Unleashed. Hank, an Akita, finds himself in Canines Unleashed, a doggie daycare, when his owner starts kindergarten. He is nervous about this new adventure. How will he surf the kitchen counter for crumbs after lunch? Hank must find a way to face his fears, take responsibility for his actions and accept new challenges he never experienced in his once sheltered world. Follow the real Hank on Instagram @hank_madeleine. This project is near and dear to my heart because I was able to incorporate my daughter and akitas as main characters. I am working on creating a podcast to accompany this as well…. and hopefully more books!

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

That is a tall order! I will have to go with 1989’s When Harry Met Sally. Billy Crystal and Meg Ryan together create such a heartwarming and hilarious story line. The soundtrack is beautiful. I love films that entertain and share a lesson.

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Huge thank you to Tina for stopping by Critter Lit today! Congrats on your upcoming books!

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An award-winning teacher for 33 years, TINA SHEPARDSON has shared thousands of books with children. As a passionate advocate for children and reading, she finds her best stories are inspired through her favorite roles in life: mother and teacher. Find her in Upstate New York with her family, enjoying the latest snowstorm with her akitas.

FOR MORE INFORMATION about Tina or her books, visit her website, or follow her on social media:

Twitter: @ShepardsonTina

Instagram: @hank_madeleine

Facebook: TinaShepardson

ORDER THIS BOOK To order a copy of WALKOUT click here.

WIN A COPY! Want to win a copy of WALKOUT?! Leave a COMMENT below or RETWEET this post on Twitter. One lucky winner will be announced on Thursday, June 2nd! US addresses only please.

Interview with Debut Author and Illustrator Amanda Davis

Happy Thursday Critters! I’m so excited for today’s interview! This is the very first time I’m sharing a book that I was lucky enough to see early on when it was submitted through Critter Lit as a manuscript critique. How exciting is that??! My hope with Critter Lit has always been to see these projects shaped into books one day. And today we get to celebrate one that made it through! I remember the first time I read this text, I got that feeling. I just knew this had legs, it just had to get in front of the right editor. I’m thrilled I got to be a part of the process of this book coming to fruition and I can’t wait for you all to hear about this incredibly special book in today’s interview.

So without further ado…please welcome Amanda Davis!

Where do you live?

Thanks so much for having me on the blog, Lindsay! I’m excited to chat more about my journey and my debut 30,000 STITCHES! I live in Massachusetts. I grew up in a small coastal town and will always be a sea baby at heart. 

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

I didn’t always know I wanted to be an author but I DID know that I loved writing and art. Whether it was sketching in a sketchbook or writing poetry, it was something I always came back to. When I was twelve, my father passed away and (without knowing it) I began to use art and writing as a tool to process and cope with my feelings. This is when I realized the power of the arts to tell our stories and process the experiences in our lives. This is what led me to want to teach art, so I could help others recognize the power in it, too. Later, in 2012, I took a Continuing Education course on writing and illustrating for children, I realized this was an art form that captured all three of my passions—writing, art, and story-telling. I was hooked and never looked back.  

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

It was a long process! From the moment, I read and taught about the true story of the flag in 2011, I was intrigued and knew it was a special story. It stuck with me and lingered in my head, but needed time to flourish. After visiting the National September 11 Memorial & Museum in 2014, and being overcome with emotion at the artifacts and the stories, it was another reminder of the importance of telling this story. Inspired by my art lesson with students and my visit to the Museum, I decided to try my hand at crafting a manuscript for 30,000 STITCHES (originally called, THE FABRIC OF AMERICA). 

I began querying back in 2017 with other picture book manuscripts and didn’t have much luck. Once I had 30,000 STITCHES polished up, which was many months later, I began to query that story to agents and editors as well. The process of landing an agent and book deal for 30,000 STITCHS was filled with ups and downs. I had many passes along the way but most were positive and many had personalized feedback, so I knew I was on the right track. I even got a few requests to revise and resubmit. I submitted to WorthyKids by snail mail through the slush pile when I was still unagented. After many months of not hearing back, I took that as a pass. I continued to query the story and later, connected with agent, Melissa Richeson who signed me for the project. Seven months later, an assistant editor from WorthyKids contacted me to ask if the story was still available. Of course, I said a big and enthusiastic YES, connected her with Melissa. The rest is history!

Long story short, it took me about nine years to get my first picture book traditionally published! It can be a long and winding road to get there, but if you keep pressing ahead, you are bound to get there.

Can you share a bit about your process?

I tend to write first drafts as the muse strikes. I’m much more intentional with my revisions and schedule time to revise. Most of my ideas for revisions stem from suggestions and brainstorm sessions with my critique groups or paid critiques through services such as Critter Lit with you, Lindsay. With this feedback in mind, I often feel inspired to revise and schedule a time to do so.  For all of my stories, they always start with research. I love doing research and am naturally a very curious person. I love to ask questions and seek to understand. Because of this, I often find myself down rabbit holes that once in a while lead to inspiration for new story ideas. I think staying curious is so important when it comes to creativity. You never know where the next story idea is lurking so we must keep our minds open and in a state of wonder. I also love talking to people and as mentioned before, learning other people’s stories. I have a background in journalism so it’s been wonderful combining my love for interviewing people into my non-fiction children’s work.   

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

I find that when my mind is free and clear, ideas flow more freely. Most of my ideas come when I let my mind wander. Most of my mind wandering takes place through meditation, nature walks, sitting near the ocean, in the shower, or when I’m driving, ha! I have oodles of notes and phrases in my Notes app on my iPhone for those moments when ideas strike. I also go in spurts. Sometimes I have lots of ideas for the art, and that is what comes first, and sometimes I have lots of ideas for the writing, and that comes first. Sometimes, too, I may have ideas for one and not the other. You never know how and when the muse will strike!!  

Anything you can’t live without while you write/draw? 

Some of my must-haves for creation include: Sunlight, candles, incense, a cracked window for some fresh air (even in the winter), my computer/iPad, a cup of tea, snacks, my sketchbook, and of course my favorite furry rescue pup, Cora by my side. 

Any authors and/or illustrators who inspire you?

I’ve often admired Nicola Davies lyrical writing and her ability to tackle tough topics in a way that is accessible to children. Some of my favorites include, THE DAY WAR CAME, KING OF THE SKY, THE POND, and her recent debut as author-illustrator, LAST: THE STORY OF A WHITE RHINO. Most recently, I’m feeling inspired by other lyrical texts such as ALL BECAUSE YOU MATTER by Tami Charles and Bryan Collier and THE TREE IN ME by Corinna Luyken. Back in 2018, I actually received funding for a visit with Bryan Collier for a school visit in my high school art room. It was an unforgettable event for not only the students but also for me. He talked about how he went around, door-to-door with his portfolio to the big five publishers in New York for SEVEN YEARS until he finally got his first book deal! That was truly inspiring and reminded me that with hard work and dedication, anything is possible! You can learn more about some of my teaching and student art projects here! 

Dream project to work on?

Honestly, this may sound corny, but Sally Wern Comport was on my dream collaborator list. I was a fan of her work and mixed media style ever since I saw it in Ada’s Violin and was ecstatic to be paired with her for my debut, 30,000 STITCHES. Happy I can check that box off!!  Another dream project would be to illustrate my own picture book one day. I have a picture book dummy that I am working on right now that is very close to my heart, and it would be a dream come true to see it come to life. 

Tell us about your debut book.

My debut creative nonfiction picture book is 30,000 STITCHES: THE INSPIRING STORY OF THE NATIONAL 9/11 FLAG. I love that you had a look at this story early on when I submitted it to Critter Lit for a critique. Your feedback helped solidify that I was on the right path and that there was a place for the story in the market. 

30,000 STITCHES tells the true story of the 30-foot American flag that was put up at Ground Zero in the days after 9/11. The flag became torn, tattered, and covered in dust and ash so it was taken down a few weeks later by a construction crew and tucked away in storage, where it stayed for nearly seven years. The flag was brought out of storage in 2008 when the New York Says Thank You Foundation headed to Greensburg, Kansas, a town nearly destroyed by a tornado. NYSTY brought the flag with them, sparking a grassroots restoration effort that traveled over 120,000 miles across all fifty states, bringing together thousands of people, and helping America heal and rebuild . . . hand by hand, thread by thread, one stitch at a time. The book is the story of that journey, a journey that ended at the opening of the National September 11 Museum, where the flag remains today. Along the way, the flag was restored using pieces of retired flags from every state—including a piece of the flag that Abraham Lincoln was laid on after he was shot at Ford's Theater and threads from the original Star-Spangled Banner flag, which flew at Fort McHenry in the War of 1812 and inspired Francis Scott Key to write the national anthem. The pieces and threads were stitched in by military veterans, first responders, educators, students, community-service heroes, and family members of 9/11 victims, among others. At each stop, communities came together to remember, to heal, and to unite.

What’s up next for you?

I have lots of new ideas in the works! Many informational fiction stories and a couple of new narrative nonfiction stories, too. As mentioned before, I also have a couple picture book dummies in progress that I hope to debut as author AND illustrator with. I hope to one day explore writing a middle grade novel in verse or even YA. 

Stay tuned for more exciting virtual events for 30,000 STITCHES, too. Next up is Mass Book Bites: Boston Book Festival. You can learn more and register HERE! And with the 20th remembrance of 9/11 approaching, I hope the story can be a great resource to help us discuss the events of that day and honor, remember, and reflect.  

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

Ohh this is a hard one, I think I’d have to go with either Beetlejuice, Little Monsters, or the original Honey I Shrunk the Kids. 

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Huge thank you to Amanda for stopping by Critter Lit today! CONGRATS on your debut book— we are all cheering for you over here at Critter Lit!

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AMANDA DAVIS is a teacher, artist, writer, and innovator who uses her words and pictures to light up the world with kindness. After losing her father at the age of twelve, Amanda turned to art and writing as an outlet. It became her voice. A way to cope. A way to escape. And a way to tell her story. She was thus inspired to teach art and pursue her passion for writing and illustrating children's books. Through her work, Amanda empowers younger generations to tell their own stories and offers children and adults an entryway into a world of discovery. A world that can help them make sense of themselves, others, and the community around them. A world where they can navigate, imagine, and feel inspired—over and over again. Amanda is the recipient of the 2020 Ann Whitford Paul—Writer’s Digest Most Promising Picture Book Manuscript Grant and teaches art at a public high school in Massachusetts where she was selected as 2020 Secondary Art Educator of the Year. Amanda is the author of 30,000 STITCHES: THE INSPIRING STORY OF THE NATIONAL 9/11 FLAG, illustrated by Sally Wern Comport, and has poetry and illustrations featured in The Writers’ Loft Anthology, FRIENDS AND ANEMONES: OCEAN POEMS FOR CHILDREN. When she’s not busy creating, you can find her sipping tea, petting dogs, and exploring the natural wonders of The Bay State with her partner and her rescue pup, Cora. You can learn more about Amanda at www.amandadavisart.com and on Twitter @amandadavisart and Instagram @amandadavis_art.

ORDER THIS BOOK To order a copy of 30,000 STITCHES click here.

WIN A COPY! Want to win a copy of 30,000 STITCHES?! Leave a COMMENT below or RETWEET this post on Twitter. One lucky winner will be announced on Thursday, May27th! US addresses only please.

Interview with Debut Author Kira Bigwood

Happy Thursday Critters! Today we have an interview with author Kira Bigwood to celebrate the release of her debut picture book, SECRET SECRET AGENT GUY, illustrated by Celia Krampien. I’m so excited about this book, which just released with Atheneum Books for Young Readers this week! Being a secret agent was always at the top of my list when I was a kid— let’s be honest should this whole book thing not work out I would totally become a secret agent (nevermind the fact that I zero skills for that). Needless to say, I’m thrilled share this book with all of you…

…so without further ado, please welcome Kira Bigwood!

Where do you live?

Just north of Chicago in idyllic Evanston, IL, home to THREE stellar independent bookstores. Shout-out to Booked, Bookends & Beginnings and Page 1!

When did you know you wanted to write picture books?

I’ve been a writer and a book lover all my life (a librarian mom will ensure that!), but I didn’t think about combining the two until my children came along (really original, right? 😆). It was seeing their reactions to different books…chatting with characters on a page, snort-laughing until they cried, asking really insightful questions…that got me thinking, “How can I do that?”

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

For me, it started in a class with Esther Hershenhorn at the Newberry here in Chicago, where I had my eyes opened wide. From there, I joined a critique group, SCBWI and the 12x12 Challenge. Then, after 6 years of reading, writing, revising, critiquing and submitting, I finally got my big break…acceptance into the RUCCL One-on-One Conference. I met Editor Alex Borbolla at the group lunch that day, where I was testing a theory, doing everything opposite of what I would normally do. So instead of retreating into my bagel and cream cheese (like any good introvert), I chatted up Alex about my spy story, and discovered…she loved spy stories! When I submitted to her afterwards, she said she was “charmed” by my manuscript, and the next thing I knew, I was signing a book deal. I couldn’t believe it (but Opposite Me could)!

Can you share a bit about your process?

Because of my background in advertising, I usually like to start with some concepting. I’ll pick a topic that interests my kids, like narwhals, or butts, or narwhal butts. Then I’ll do some brainstorming around my topic…word mapping, word association kind of stuff. Hopefully that shows me how to twist my idea and turn it into something completely unique. Once I have my concept good and tight, I’ll start the writing, editing and revising process, checking in often with my critique partners, and then towards the end with my agent. I’ve found it’s easier to revise projects that have a solid concept at the core.

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

I’m a big believer in “filling the well.” Watching movies with the hubs, reading outside my genre, enjoying a glass of wine, hiking and biking, strolling museums, rocking (or mellowing) out to some tunes, playing with my kids, definitely not playing with my kids, hanging with friends, enjoying another glass of wine…heck, even literally filling a well might “fill the well!”

Anything you can’t live without while you write/draw?

Background music. I tend to listen to instrumentals that match the theme of whatever story I’m working on. So, for SECRET, SECRET AGENT GUY, it was a lot of Henry Mancini! Also, caffeine (again, really original, right? 😆).

Any authors and/or illustrators who inspire you?

James Marshall, if we’re throwing back. I love his brand of smart-funny. George & Martha had me hooked from the beginning. Currently, can’t get enough of Ame Dyckman and Lucy Ruth Cummins (also smart-funnies), and find myself saying, “I wish I had written that,” after I read EVERY SINGLE ONE of their books. 

Dream project to work on?

Oh gosh, to publish more books! Even just one more would be a dream! Especially one where I could partner with Illustrator Celia Krampien again! Wait until you see her visual storytelling for SECRET, SECRET AGENT GUY. Smart, funny (what can I say? I have a type), creative, a little vintage-y, and don’t even get me started on her color palette. She is downright masterful, and I would consider myself lucky to be able to collaborate with her on another project one day.

Tell us about your debut book.

It’s a spy twist on the classic, Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star. Your mission—should you choose to accept it—is to join Secret, Secret Agent Guy on his bedtime assignment, code name: Operation Lollipop. Equipped with night-vision goggles, a jetpack, and grappling hook, he is prepared for every eventuality...or is he? Will this 007-year-old complete his covert quest, or will he be outsmarted by an adversary he never saw coming?

Interior art from SECRE SECRET AGENT GUY written by Kira Bigwood, Illustrated by Celia Kramien

What’s up next for you?

I’m touching up some manuscripts for my agent right now, including some non-fiction science. Maybe one of them will be my next book!

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

We’ll go with the Rule of Threes on this one…Goonies, The Great Outdoors, and of course, National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation (“Save the neck for me, Clark!”).

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Huge thank you to Kira for stopping by Critter Lit today! Congrats on your debut! We can’t wait to see what you come out with next.

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KIRA BIGWOOD writes children’s books, TV commercials, and much to her 10-year-old’s dismay, notes for her kids’ lunchboxes. She was once edited out of a My Little Pony ad because she was missing her two front teeth (not that she’s still hanging on to that or anything). Luckily, she has all her teeth now, and a much more positive attitude toward the editing process. Kira is a graduate of the University of North Carolina (go Heels!), and lives in Chicago with her husband and three children. Secret, Secret Agent Guy is her debut picture book.

FOR MORE INFORMATION about Kira or her book, visit her website, or follow her on social media:

IG: @kirabigwood

Twitter: @KBigwood

ORDER THIS BOOK To order a copy of SECRET SECRET AGENT GUY click here.

WIN A COPY! Want to win a SIGNED copy of SECRET SECRET AGENT GUY?! Leave a COMMENT below or RETWEET this post on Twitter. One lucky winner will be announced on Thursday, May 20th! US addresses only please.

Interview with Debut Author Debra Shumaker

Happy Thursday Critters! I hope you are all doing well! Today we have an interview with author Debra Shumaker whose debut picture book, FREAKY, FUNKY FISH: ODD FACTS ABOUT FASCINATING FISH, illustrated by Claire Powell, just released this week with Running Press Kids! So exciting! I love the fun facts in this book— super interesting, illustrated with gorgeous art. A new nonfiction favorite in our house!

I’m so excited to share this book with all of you, so without further ado, please welcome Debra Shumaker!

Where do you live?

In Sterling, Virginia about 45 minutes from Washington, D.C.

When did you know you wanted to write picture books?

When my boys were little, my favorite thing to do with them was cuddle up and read books. I fell in love with picture books and decided that I wanted to learn how to write them.

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

It was a very long, bumpy road lined with sweat and and a few tears, LOL. I started by taking a course through the Institute of Children’s Literature in 2005 when I was pregnant with my third child. We had three boys in 3 1/2 years so I didn’t write much at first. But once the youngest started preschool I dug in. I studied craft and wrote and submitted. Got lots of rejections and joined challenges, studied craft more, and wrote new things. It was 2015 before I started getting champagne rejections and revise and resubmit requests. I didn’t sign with an agent until 2017 and we didn’t get an offer until January of 2019. All told, it was about my 15th “serious” manuscript that finally got an offer.

Can you share a bit about your process?

I’m always juggling projects. One book I’ll be in polishing and submitting mode, while I’ll be thick in revisions with another, and starting the research and/or drafting phase of another. When I get stuck or frustrated with one project, I jump to a different one. I frequently put projects that don’t seem to be working on the back burner, sometimes for weeks, sometimes for months or even years. At times I’ll pull out something from that proverbial drawer to see if there is any life in some older manuscripts. In fact, the idea for FREAKY, FUNKY FISH is, in part, due to a fiction manuscript I wrote way back in 2013.

I’m also in four critique groups and do lots of swapping with various writing friends. So while I may not write 8 hours a day, I seem to be constantly doing something writing related.

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

Reading - both adult and kidlit. I like to write nonfiction, so reading books, newspapers, online articles, trivia questions, etc. gives me tons of ideas. I’m constantly checking out picture books from the library to get the feel for what is out there and what’s missing. I also love Tara Lazar’s StoryStorm to kick start new ideas. But really, I have so many ideas I’ll have to live to be over 100 in order to write them all! 

Anything you can’t live without while you write?

It’s probably not in the “can’t live without” category, but 90% of the time when I’m writing, I play a “Classical for Studying Radio” station on Pandora. I don’t like complete quiet when writing, but yet I can’t have anything with words in the background. Outside words interfere with the “inside” words I’m trying to work with. But my laptop is something I can’t live without.

Any authors and/or illustrators who inspire you?

Oh my, SO many of them. For nature nonfiction authors, off the top of my head, I would say Melissa Stewart, Laura Purdie Salas, April Pulley Sayre, Maria Gianferrari. But so many authors inspire me in different types of picture books, I would need an entire page and too much time to list them all. I will say that the KidLit Community is bursting with inspirational and kind creators.

Dream project to work on?

I’m living my dream right now, writing all different styles of PB and finding an agent who loves my work and editors who have loved at least a few of them. Any current project I’m working on is my dream project at the moment.

Tell us about your debut book.

FREAKY, FUNKY FISH: ODD FACTS ABOUT FASCINATING FISH is a rhyming nonfiction picture book about the weird and wonderful ways some fish look or act to survive in the waters they live in—one kind of fish has a see-through head, another kind coats itself in a mucus cocoon at night, and some fish play dead to lure prey or avoid being eaten. Fascinating stuff! After reading this book, I hope kids are as amazed as I am by the natural world. While the main text is sparse, I do include back matter that goes into more detail about how and why these fish do the things they do.

Interior Art for FREAKY, FUNKY FISH: ODD FACTS ABOUT FASCINATING FISH by Debra Shumaker, Illustrated by Claire Powell

What’s up next for you?

My second picture book, TELL SOMEONE, comes out on October 1st with Albert Whitman, illustrated by Tristan Yuvienco. TELL SOMEONE encourages kids to talk about things—both the good stuff and the hard stuff.

And a companion to FREAKY, FUNKY FISH is in the works! PECULIAR PRIMATES is coming to bookshelves in Fall 2022 with Running Press Kids. From funny faces and colored butts, to flossing teeth and thumping chests, discover some peculiar ways primates look and act. Thankfully Claire Powell signed on to illustrate. I just saw the sketch of the cover. It will be another super fun book!

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

When Harry Met Sally. I just rewatched it last summer and it still makes me laugh and cheer for Harry and Sally when they finally get together. That ending monologue by Billy Crystal? Um, yes. I’m a romantic at heart. :-)

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

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Debra Kempf Shumaker loves weird and fascinating facts. When she isn’t reading or writing, Debra enjoys cooking, gardening, and watching Jeopardy. She lives in Northern Virginia with her husband, three sons, and two cats—who miss the days the youngest son had an aquarium full of fish.

FOR MORE INFORMATION about Debra or her book, visit her website or follow her on social media:

Twitter: https://twitter.com/ShumakerDebra

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/debrakshumaker/

ORDER THIS BOOK To order a copy of FREAKY, FUNKY FISH: ODD FACTS ABOUT FASCINATING FISH click here.

WIN A COPY! Want to win a copy of FREAKY, FUNKY FISH: ODD FACTS ABOUT FASCINATING FISH!? Leave a COMMENT below or RETWEET this post on Twitter. One lucky winner will be announced on Thursday, May 13th! US addresses only please.

Interview with Author Rebecca Kraft Rector

Happy Thursday Critters! This week we have an interview with author Rebecca Kraft Rector! Her newest picture book, SQUISH SQUASH SQUISHED, illustrated by Dana Wulfekotte just came out with Nancy Paulson Books in February. I’m thrilled to have Rebecca with us today to talk about her new book and her road to publication.

So without further ado, please welcome Rebecca Kraft Rector!

Where do you live?

I live in Tidewater Virginia. I grew up in Maryland and have also lived in Georgia and Florida.

When did you know you wanted to write picture books?

I’ve always been a voracious reader and have been writing stories and poems since I was a child. I delighted (?) my friends with stories about fleas on a dog and a girl who was a strawberry. I love horses and wrote many horse stories. It wasn't until I worked with fellow librarian and author Mary Downing Hahn that I realized that real people could have their stories published.

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

My first publications were in magazines, followed by a slush pile acceptance of my middle grade science fiction novel TRIA AND THE GREAT STAR RESCUE with Delacorte Random House. When my later novels and picture books were rejected, I started writing for educational publishers and had about 25 fiction and nonfiction leveled readers published. Finally, at a Highlights Foundation workshop, SQUISH SQUASH SQUASHED attracted the attention of Cecilia Yung who showed it to Nancy Paulsen who agreed to publish it. Nancy Paulsen Books is an imprint of Penguin Random House. I also acquired an agent as a result of the Highlights workshop and she sold my forthcoming picture book LITTLE RED WRITING HOOD to Aladdin/Simon & Schuster.

Can you share a bit about your process?

I’m trying to streamline my process, but at the moment it’s write, revise, revise, revise, let it sit, revise, revise, revise, repeat endlessly. My ideal process would be to know up front the best character, goal, and conflict, in order for the story to resonate with emotion, theme or takeaway. But for now, my writing process is also a discovery process.

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

Read, take a walk, listen to people and kids.

Anything you can’t live without while you write?

Dark chocolate chips.

Any authors and/or illustrators who inspire you?

Almost every author I read is an inspiration. Some for humor, some for heart, some for structure, and most for fun.

Dream project to work on?

It would be wonderful to interest a publisher in one of my picture book or middle grade horse stories.

Tell us about your debut picture book.

SQUISH SQUASH SQUISHED is about Max and Molly who complain about not having enough room in the back seat of their gracious-spacious automobile. Their mother invites animal friends to ride along until the kids really are squish squash squished. The book is filled with wordplay, refrains, and animal noises. I had a great time writing it and I hope it becomes a popular read-aloud to share with children.

Interior art from SQUISH SQUASH SQUISHED by Rebecca Kraft Rector, illustrated by Dana Wulfekotte

Interior art from SQUISH SQUASH SQUISHED by Rebecca Kraft Rector, illustrated by Dana Wulfekotte

What’s up next for you?

I’m working on companion stories for SQUISH SQUASH SQUISHED and LITTLE RED WRITING HOOD, as well as other picture books. I’m also on my five hundredth draft of a middle grade fantasy.

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

Back to the Future.

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Huge thank you to Rebecca for stopping by Critter Lit today! Congrats on your debut picture book! We can’t wait to read your next book!

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REBECCA KRAFT RECTOR is a retired librarian and the author of more than thirty fiction and nonfiction books for children. Her cats Ollie and Opal keep her company while she writes. When she isn’t writing and eating chocolate, she’s trying to keep deer out of her garden.

SQUISH SQUASH SQUISHED is her first picture book. Her second picture book LITTLE RED WRITING HOOD is coming from Aladdin in Spring 2022.

FOR MORE INFORMATION about Rebecca or her books, visit her online: RebeccaKraftRector.wordpress.com

Or follow her on social media:

@RebeccaKraftRector on Facebook

@RebeccaKRector on Instagram and Twitter

ORDER THIS BOOK To order a copy of SQUISH SQUASH SQUISHED click here.

WIN A COPY! Want to win a copy of SQUISH SQUASH SQUISHED? Leave a COMMENT below or RETWEET this post on Twitter. One lucky winner will be announced on Thursday, May 6th! US addresses only please.

Interview with Author Sherry Shahan

Happy Thursday Critters! Today we have an interview with author Sherry Shahan, who has published over 40 books for children, from picture books to young adult novels. Her newest book, PURPLE DAZE: A FAR OUT TRIP, 1965 just released this past December. I’m thrilled to have her with us today to talk about her experiences, career, and advice to upcoming authors and illustrators making their way into the industry.

So without further ado, please welcome Sherry Shahan!

Where do you live?

A laid-back beach town in California called Morro Bay. 

How many years have you been in publishing?

My first children’s book, Fifth Grade Crush, appeared in 1986 from a school book fair publisher.

How did you first get published?

I met a presenter at a writer’s conference who agreed to critique my manuscript for a reasonable fee. She liked it so much that she shared it with one of her editors. They published my first six books.

Do you write full-time?

Yes.

What inspires you to create picture books?

Six of my seven picture books are nonfiction and were sparked from interests in the world around me. My grandson inspired my fiction picture book That’s Not How You Play Soccer Daddy. 

What surprised you the most working as an author?

The community is genuinely caring, encouraging, and supportive. It’s one big, vibrant family.

What is your favorite thing about being an author?

A year ago I would’ve said visiting schools and libraries, sharing the love of creating stories with young readers. While I enjoy interactions with children on Zoom, I look forward to returning to in-person meetings.

What do you find difficult working as an author?

As in all aspects of life, things can happen that are beyond my control. I once had a four-book contract cancelled because the publisher changed directions. 

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

I can lose myself searching topics of interest via in Google. I subscribe to AtlasObscura.com podcast and CNN’s online newsletter “The Good Stuff.” I’m enjoying the many webinars about writing available to us right now.

Anything you are habitual about when it comes to creativity?

I reach for scissors and paste when I need a ‘screen’ break. I have drawers full of words and pictures snipped from magazines. I find collage a mind-quieting and creative outlet. 

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

A student in my first course at UCLA (“Writing Picture Books”) sold the manuscript she was working on. It was the first of her many publications. 

Recommended reading?

Writing Picture Books: A Hands-On Guide from Story Creation to Publication by award-winning author Ann Whitford Paul. I especially appreciate the revision exercises that help identify potential problems.

What has been the highlight of your career thus far?

Making lifelong friendships with others who are passionate about children’s literature. That includes writers, illustrators, editors, teachers, librarians and those I’ve mentored.

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

Give yourself permission to fail, but never give up. I once sold a nonfiction picture book manuscript after 40 rejections. People ask, “Why didn’t you send it to them in the first place?” I respond, “Because they didn’t exist when I began submitting.” 

Can you tell us about your newest book?

A young adult novel in verse PURPLE DAZE: A Far Out Trip, 1965. It was inspired by letters sent to me from a friend who served in Vietnam. I’d kept them nearly 50 years.

What’s up next for you?

I’m playing around with an idea for a picture book about hydroponics, sparked by experiments in my kitchen. I’ve been growing carrot tops and celery bottoms in jars of water on my windowsill.

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

Join SCBWI and attend webinars. Sign up for writing classes. Consider a mentoring program. Seek out a critique group that has experienced writers and/or illustrators. Artists have unique viewpoints when it comes to pacing, page-turns, what should be presented in words, and what should be left to illustrations. Experiment with different genres.

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

That’s easy since I’m an avid dance student: Flashdance and Footloose. 

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Huge thank you to Sherry for stopping by Critter Lit today! Congrats on your new book! We can’t wait to read what you write next!

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SHERRY SHAHAN lives in a laid-back beach town on the Central Coast of California where she grows carrot tops in ice cube trays for pesto. She has forty children’s books to her credit, preschool through young adult, fiction and nonfiction. Her YA novel in free verse and traditional poetry features a tumultuous time in history, PURPLE DAZE: A Far Out Trip, 1965. Her short form writing has appeared in Highlights, Cricket, Cobblestone, Boys Life, and more. She holds an MFA in Writing for Children and Young Adults from Vermont College of Fine Arts and taught a creative writing course for UCLA for ten years. She enjoys hearing from other book lovers: kidbooks@thegrid.net

FOR MORE INFORMATION about Sherry or her books, visit her online: www.sherryshahan.com

ORDER THIS BOOK To order a copy of PURPLE DAZE: A Far Out Trip, 1965 click here.

WIN A COPY! Want to win a copy of PURPLE DAZE: A Far Out Trip, 1965?! Leave a COMMENT below or RETWEET this post on Twitter. One lucky winner will be announced on Thursday, April 15th! US addresses only please.

Interview with Author Deb Adamson

Happy Thursday Critters! Today we have an interview with author Deb Adamson whose newest board book, I MISS YOUR SUNNY SMILE, illustrated by Anne Zimanski, just released with Blue Manatee Press this week! I’m thrilled to have Deb with us today to talk about her books, process, and journey in publishing.

So without further ado, please welcome Deb Adamson!

Where do you live?

I live on the shoreline of Connecticut.

How many years have you been in publishing?

My first picture book was published around 20 years ago by Millbrook Press. I took an extended pause from querying until a few years ago.

Do you write full-time?

I do write full time but I also teach a memoir writing class for adults weekly.

What inspires you to create picture books?

I never know what is going to inspire me to write— a conversation with my hairstylist, a news article, another book I’ve read. I really have an unending supply of ideas. It’s just a matter of finding one that takes flight and becomes a worthwhile manuscript. So many do not. But sometimes the ones that resist developing just need revisiting at a later date. 

What surprised you the most working as an author?

I’m most surprised by how much I love seeing and illustrator’s interpretation of my words. When I receive a fully illustrated book with my words coming to life through pictures I am just tickled. The surprise is seeing if an illustrator envisions the work as I do. 

What is your favorite thing about being an author, illustrator, or author/illustrator?

The best part about writing kids books is the kids who read them! I really enjoy school (or now Zoom) visits and hearing kids’ reactions to my books. It’s why I write for this age. Their enthusiasm and interest is what fuels me to want to keep writing.

What do you find difficult working as an author?

The most difficult part of being an author are the days when the writing just doesn’t flow. And no matter how many years I’ve been at it, I am not always kind to myself when this happens. I should know by know that writing is not always easy.

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

When this happens I sometimes go for a run, stroll my garden, or pull out my sketchbook and watercolors. Switching gears is the best approach to shake off writer’s block.

Anything you are habitual about when it comes to creativity?

I try to write every morning. I’m an early riser and part of the #5amwritersclub on Twitter. We check in with each other and then we get down to business putting words to the page. This supportive writing community has boosted my word count more than I can say.

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

I’m part of the kid lit promo group,  21FORTHEBOOKS. We are all children’s book author/illustrators being published in 2021. This amazing group has been the best support for book launching. We cheer each other on and provide one another with moral support. A few of us have especially needed that this year due to Covid, printing delays, bookstores closed and virtual launches. I feel especially lucky to be a part of it.

Recommended reading?

How about Scooper and Dumper by Lindsay Ward? :-) I really enjoyed your newest picture book title and the message of friendship and teamwork. I write in rhyme too, so I know how challenging it can be. You really nailed it!

(Thank you Deb!)

What has been the highlight of your career thus far?

The highlight of my career has been watching my newest title, I Miss Your Sunny Smile, finally make it to publication. It was on its way several years ago by a Big Five publisher but when it made it to a marketing meeting it was rejected. Ever since then, I worked hard to find it a home, so I can’t wait to finally share it with children. Especially now, during a time when I know so many are struggling with isolation due to the pandemic. I think this book may be of some help.

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

That even though you got two books published it was still going to be just as challenging to get the next one accepted for publication. Publishing children’s books is one THE MOST competitive endeavors. I think I read somewhere that getting accepted for publication has odds comparable to winning a lottery!

Can you tell us about your newest book?

I Miss Your Sunny Smile is a board book aimed at ages 0-3. It is written in rhyme. This little story will hopefully help parents guide young children through a bad day. We all have them, and the youngest of children have yet to figure out how to navigate them. In this story the small child is aided by his mom who helps him redirect and in the end locate his elusive smile. It’s a timely title for a time when small children are especially struggling through social isolation due to the pandemic. It’s my hope that it helps parents and kids in some small way during this trying time.

Interior art from I MISS YOUR SUNNY SMILE by Deb Adamson, illustrated by Anne Zimanski

What’s up next for you?

I have two picture books being published in 2021 by independent publisher, Blue Manatee Press. Both are written in rhyme. One is a DIY book, following a family around their back yard as they build a swing set. It’s called, Bing, Bang Pling, Now We Swing! The other is A Christmas Eve Wish For Santa, a sweet story to help send off Santa with best wishes for his big night. And then in 2022 Scott Joplin’s Maple Leaf Rag, a nonfiction picture book biography, will be published by Starbright Books.

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

Don’t go it alone. Find yourself a supportive writing group either locally or online. Join the SCBWI. Also become a part of Twitter and the kidlit conversations that take place on that platform, daily. Writing can be such a solitary exercise so finding a clan helps make the highs higher and the lows lower.

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

The Breakfast Club. What an awesome coming of age film. Those five main characters who became known as the Brat Pack were so believable in their high school clique mentalities. 

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Huge thank you to Deb for stopping by Critter Lit today! Congrats on your newest book and we can’t wait to see what you write next!

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DEB ADAMSON writes picture books, board books, chapter books and middle grade novels. She also writes for adults— both fiction and nonfiction. Her books are silly, sweet and often a combination of both. Deb sometimes write in rhyme, mostly because she believes children enjoy how it rolls off the tongue like word-song.

In addition to writing for kids, Deb has also taught them, in “Shel Silverstein” poetry workshops. She teaches an ongoing adult memoir and essay writing class, which, through the years, has helped her grow as a writer more than she can say. Deb is a former broadcast news journalist, freelance essayist and syndicated columnist for Gatehouse News Service. Her column about homeschooling her son was read in over 250 print newspapers nationally, as well as online. For ten years Deb was in Public Relations as a spokesperson for a major U.S. Aquarium where she got to do really cool things like coordinate and accompany national news reporters from CNN and the New York Times to observe wild dolphins in the waterways of Hilton Head, South Carolina. She also organized major news coverage of many rehabilitated and released whales and seals along the coast of New England. Deb has appeared a couple of times with a penguin or two on NBC’s Today Show. She is a member of The Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators. (SCBWI)

Deb lives in Connecticut in the company of three amazing and much loved, guy varieties- My husband, teenage son and orange-cat-extrorindaire, Fatty Lumpkin, AKA Lumpy.

FOR MORE INFORMATION about Deb follow her on social media @DebAdamsonBooks

ORDER THIS BOOK To order a copy of I MISS YOUR SUNNY SMILE, click here.

WIN A COPY! Want to win a copy of I MISS YOUR SUNNY SMILE?! Leave a COMMENT below or RETWEET this post on Twitter. One lucky winner will be announced on Thursday, April 1st! US addresses only please.

Interview with Author Tracy C. Gold

Happy Thursday Critters! Today we have an interview with an author whose debut board book, EVERYONE’S SLEEPY BUT THE BABY, illustrated by Adele Dafflon, will be released on April 13th with Familius. I love original board books and this one is very funny— especially for all you fellow parents out there who know the struggles of getting a baby to sleep. I’m thrilled to have her with us today, so without further ado, please welcome Tracy C. Gold!

Where do you live?

I live in Baltimore City, Maryland, in a tree-lined neighborhood full of houses from 1900.

When did you know you wanted to write picture books?

I actually never even considered it until I had a kid of my own! After she was born, I started reading tons of picture books and getting ideas for my own. I jot down ideas on my phone whenever they come to me and one of those became Everyone’s Sleepy but the Baby!

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

Oh goodness, it has been a long and winding road indeed. I’ve been writing novels for ten years and haven’t had one published yet. Despite getting into big contests like Pitch Wars and getting lots of interest from agents, ultimately, I faced down hundreds of rejections from agents across four different novels. At an SCBWI MD/DE/WV conference, my friend Kathy MacMillan raved about her picture book publisher, Familius. So when I had a draft of a picture book I thought was special, I just sent it straight to them as a cold query, without mentioning Kathy. I was utterly shocked when they wrote to me only ONE WEEK later saying they wanted to publish it as part of their board book line. That book is Everyone’s Sleepy but the Baby. For my second book, Trick or Treat, Bugs to Eat, the path was a bit more “traditional,” though still twisty. Somewhere in my novel writing education, I interned for literary agent Carrie Pestritto for a year or so. I wrote to her to tell her about my deal for SLEEPY, and that I was looking for an agent for other picture books. She said she’d represent me herself! It wasn’t until many months later, after we’d submitted 3-4 other picture books, that Sourcebooks said they wanted to publish my Halloween book about bats, Trick or Treat, Bugs to Eat.

Can you share a bit about your process?

All of my books, novels and picture books alike, are inspired by real life. That could be looking around my house and noticing that my dog and my husband were snoring, and I was exhausted, while my child was wide awake, for Everyone’s Sleepy but the Baby, or seeing a million bats fly out from under Congress Bridge while traveling in Austin, TX, and turning it into a picture book years later. I’m also working on a historical novel about a ship of Jewish refugees turned away from the US, Cuba, and Canada in 1939 that was inspired by a friend posting about her relatives who were on the ship amidst revelations of poor treatment of refugees in the US during the Trump administration. So, I never know whether I’ll get an idea right away or if something needs to marinate for a while, but the whole world is full of amazing stories.

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

I try not to stress too much about it, really! I like to take breaks between heavy writing periods to refill my well. So if I’m not writing, or if I don’t have good ideas, I consume lots of media—reading books in many genres, watching great tv shows, and especially paying attention to interesting stories in the news. I play close attention to media coming from The Maryland Zoo and the National Aquarium, near me, as I love writing about animals. When I’m in the middle of an intense writing project, I close myself off to a lot of outside media, because if I’m reading a really good novel, I won’t put it down to work on my own writing. So I’m very aware that my creativity goes in cycles. Natalie Goldberg, who has a great craft book called Writing Down the Bones, compares this process to composting. Sometimes you’re loading the compost heap with all the raw material, and sometimes you’re taking out that rich soil to plant your garden.

Anything you can’t live without while you write?

I am actually quite flexible especially now that I am a parent—sometimes the only time I have to work all day is when my daughter is in the bath. I pull up a chair and open my laptop and hope I don’t get splashed! But if I had my way I would have my ergonomic keyboard and chair, huge monitor, black coffee in the morning, and peppermint tea at night. Plus lots of dark chocolate!

Any authors and/or illustrators who inspire you?

Well, Kathy MacMillan who I mentioned earlier is such an inspiration because in addition to being a wonderful writer of picture books and YA, she gives back to her community so much as the Co-RA of our region of SCBWI. I also admire Linda Sue Park, who also writes stories based in non-fiction, from the sparse yet stunning A Single Shard set in ancient Korea, to the hard-hitting A Long Walk to Water about the Lost Boys of Sudan, to Gondra’s Treasure, a sweet picture book about a dragon who’s a mix of different mythologies.

Dream project to work on?

Hello, Universe, hire me to do a Star Wars picture book? I would also completely flip out if the WWII refugee novel I am working on was published and *gasp* turned into a movie. I love working on picture books because of the collaboration with artists and think film would take that to a whole new level. I also think the message of this refugee story, and any refugee story, really, is so important. The United States needs to do a better job of living up to that Emma Lazarus poem in the Statue of Liberty: "Give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses yearning to breathe free." Any US Citizen could have been a refugee if we had been born into different circumstances.

Tell us about your debut book.

Everyone’s Sleepy but the Baby, illustrated by Adele Dafflon, is a short, sweet and slightly sassy book about a baby who will just not sleep! It is directly inspired by my exhaustion as a new mother and I’d like to think it’s a version of Adam Mansbach’s “Go the F**k to Sleep” that you could actually read to your child. It will bring laughs as a baby shower gift book, but also actually help soothe fussy babies and toddlers to sleep.

Interior Art from EVERYONE’S SLEEPY BUT THE BABY written by Tracy C. Gold, illustrated by Adele Dafflon

What’s up next for you?

After Everyone’s Sleepy but the Baby is well out in the world, I will be focusing on launching my second picture book—technically my debut hardcover picture book, as SLEEPY is a board book. I have an additional book contracted with Sourcebooks as well, but I don’t know what it will be yet, so that will be fun to work out! I have a ton of ideas and drafts already!

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

I’m going to have to say The Breakfast Club! When John Bender comes in, he goes out of his way to knock little things over because he just has so much energy and wants attention, and that makes me laugh so hard because it reminds me so much of my very hyper little brother. (Who is an adult now but just as full of energy as he was as a teen.) The whole movie is hilarious with an ultimately sweet message. Plus random 80s dance scene?!

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Huge thank you to Tracy for stopping by Critter Lit today! Congrats on your debut!

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TRACY C. GOLD loves bringing characters to life. She is a writer, freelance editor, and mom living in Baltimore, Maryland. She has two picture books forthcoming in 2021, Everyone’s Sleepy but the Baby from Familius in March and Trick or Treat, Bugs to Eat from Sourcebooks in August. She also writes short stories, essays, novels, and poems. Her work has been published in several magazines and anthologies. Tracy earned her M.F.A. in Creative Writing and Publishing Arts at the University of Baltimore and earned her B.A. in English from Duke University. When she’s not writing or editing, she’s playing with her toddler, or hanging out with her horse and dog, both rescues. You can find out more about Tracy or sign up for her newsletter at tracycgold.com or follow her on social media:

Twitter @tracycgold

Instagram

Facebook author page.

ORDER THIS BOOK To order a copy of EVERYONE’S SLEEPY BUT THE BABY, click here.

WIN A COPY! Want to win a copy of EVERYONE’S SLEEPY BUT THE BABY?! Leave a COMMENT below or RETWEET this post on Twitter. One lucky winner will be announced on Thursday, March 25th! US addresses only please.

Interview with Debut Author Sita Singh

Happy Thursday Critters! Today we have an interview with author Sita Singh. Her debut picture book, BIRDS OF A FEATHER, illustrated by Stephanie Fizer Coleman, released this week with Philomel Books. I love the message of this book and the art is fantastic! A new picture book perfect for any collection.

So without further ado, please welcome Sita Singh!

Where do you live?

I was born and raised in India and moved to the United States in 1999. I have been living in the suburbs of South Florida since then. But my dream is to someday live in a small town where everything is walkable.

When did you know you wanted to write picture books?

I was never a writer, but I was always a reader. I grew up reading illustrated stories from Panchatantra, Ramayana, and Mahabharat. These were mainly fables and mythological tales, and my favorite type of books to read as a child. Luckily, my husband also grew up reading illustrated stories in form of comic books. So when we moved to the United States, it was only natural for us to look for similar form of stories to read with our own children. While searching the libraries and book stores, we were both pleasantly surprised to have discovered the magical genre of “picture books”. Additionally, every time we went to India, we came back with stacks of illustrated stories. As a family, we enjoyed reading “stories with pictures”. I’d say the seed to becoming a picture book writer was planted early. But I didn’t take up writing until my children were much older and I felt the need to have a creative pursuit of my own. By that time, I had also discovered a lack of representation in children’s literature and was excited to explore the possibilities of writing illustrated stories. How hard can it be to write picture books? With that naïveté, I jumped into writing!

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

My road to publication wasn’t relatively long, but I wouldn’t call nine years, a short time either. As mentioned earlier, I jumped into writing without any knowledge about the craft. Initially, I was writing only in rhymes and my writing was all over the place. But once I discovered SCBWI, one thing led to another, and in 2014, I attended my first conference which left me in awe of the talent and resources the Kid Lit community had to offer. There, I also found my critique partners, and I clearly remember coming home with a zest to learn and connect. Soon, I was a participant of PiBoIdMo, 12 x12, Making Picture Book Magic, and Children’s Book Academy. And within no time, I felt confident enough to start seeking representation. Of course, I was wrong again! I got rejection after rejection, but I kept learning and revising, and in 2017, my story won the Florida SCBWI Rising Kite award. With that, I soon landed an agent, and in 2019, we sold Birds Of A Feather. 

Can you share a bit about your process?

When I have an idea, I start by studying mentor texts. As the idea brews in my head, words and lines come to me, and a story begins to take shape. I start with a synopsis. Of course, it changes through the process of writing, but a synopsis helps me stay on track. I write in long sentences and paragraphs, without any inhibition. It’s more like a story I’m telling myself. Then, with the process of elimination, I turn it into a picture book manuscript. I let it simmer for days and after a few revisions, I read it to my critique group. Their feedback helps me revise further, and once I’m happy with the story, I share it with my agent. 

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

I step away from the computer and engage myself in other things I like to do—reading a book, trying a new recipe in my kitchen, styling and taking food pictures, or simply hanging out with the family helps me shake the rust off. In terms of getting new ideas, it hasn’t been a struggle, yet. I have a long list of ideas waiting to be explored. 

Anything you can’t live without while you write?

A water bottle, and a window.

I’m always armed with a water bottle and I have to be sitting by a window, when I write. 

Any authors and/or illustrators who inspire you?

This one is hard. There are so many! But if I had to pick, I’m inspired by the works of Jacqueline Woodson, Amy Krouse Rosenthal, and Beth Ferry.  

Tell us about your debut book.

Birds of a Feather is the story of Mo, a colorless peacock who learns to love himself in a jungle full of color. It is a story about finding strength in the things that make us different, and beauty in all its forms. 

Interior art from BIRDS OF A FEATHER written by Sita Singh, illustrated by Stephanie Fizer Coleman

Interior art from BIRDS OF A FEATHER written by Sita Singh, illustrated by Stephanie Fizer Coleman

What’s up next for you?

I have two picture books on submission and I’m working on a few more manuscripts.

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

When Harry Met Sally.

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Huge thank you to Sita for stopping by Critter Lit today! Congrats on your debut!

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SITA SINGH was born and raised in India, and moved to the United States in 1999. She currently lives in South Florida with her husband, three children, and an immensely cute and curious dog. An architect in the past, Sita now enjoys writing heartwarming picture books with a South Asian backdrop. When Sita isn’t reading or writing, she can be found trying new recipes in the kitchen, experimenting with food photography, walking with the dog, or movie-marathoning with the family. Her debut picture book, BIRDS OF A FEATHER, illustrated by Stephanie Fizer Coleman, will be published on March 2nd, 2021 by Philomel Books. Find out more about Sita on www.singhsita.com and connect with her on Instagram and Twitter @sitawrites.

ORDER THIS BOOK To order a copy of BIRDS OF A FEATHER, click here.

WIN A COPY! Want to win a copy of BIRDS OF A FEATHER?! Leave a COMMENT below or RETWEET this post on Twitter. One lucky winner will be announced on Thursday, March 11th! US addresses only please.

Interview with Debut Author Hayley Diep

Happy Thursday Critters! Today we have a debut author who just self-published her first picture book AND she also happens to live in my hometown, San Jose, California! I’m thrilled to be featuring her work and share her publishing story with you all today.

So without further ado, please welcome Hayley Diep!

Where do you live?

I live in San Jose, California.

 When did you know you wanted to write picture books?

 It started maybe two or three years ago. At first I wanted to write a picture book about my parents’ journey to America. 

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

 My husband was the first real fan of this book. He pushed for me to self-publish it after I shared it with him, saying that it had a great message for girls in the world.

I resisted at first because I wasn’t sure if the book was good enough. I, unfortunately, had and still have a major case of imposter syndrome. But the book wouldn’t leave me alone. I’d find myself revisiting it, re-reading it every few months, and daydreaming about the illustrations, so I decided to just take the plunge and self-publish it. 

I researched different distributors and learned that if I published through IngramSpark, they would distribute my books to bookstores and other retailers. I wouldn’t have to worry about selling the book myself if I didn’t want to so I decided to go with IngramSpark. 

After that, I had to figure out how to find and hire an illustrator, write a contract, set up a website, build my social media, market my book, sell my book, and everything else that self-publishing entails. It has been a JOURNEY, and I honestly could not have done it without my very talented illustrator, Braden Hallett. He did such an incredible job bringing this book to life. 

Can you share a bit about your process?

My writing process is to sit down with a hot cup of water, write, write, write whatever comes to mind, revise, share it with critique partners and as many people as possible for feedback, revise again, solicit feedback again, and then revise it again. I usually let the manuscript sit for a few months after the final revision before revisiting it and making more revisions.

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

I read books or go outside for a bike ride or hike.

Anything you can’t live without while you write?

Hot water, I am always drinking hot water while I write. Sometimes I drink chamomile tea as well. 

Any authors and/or illustrators who inspire you?

I love Lesa Cline-Ransome’s work. She is a phenomenal children’s book author. Her book Before She Was Harriet is one of my favorite books of all time. I love her word choice, writing style, everything. I wish I could write like her.

Dream project to work on?

If I could work on a Star Wars related book, it would be a total dream come true. I love Star Wars.

Tell us about your debut book.

If You Give a Girl a Bike features an Asian main character and her two friends mountain biking, skateboarding, rock climbing, and surfing. This book is so important to me because I didn’t grow up seeing people like me in picture books, and even though there has been a huge influx of Asian characters in picture books, a lot of them still revolve around culture. 

Interior art from IF YOU GIVE A GIRL A BIKE by Hayley Diep, Illustrated by Braden Hallett

These topics are obviously extremely important, but I honestly identify more as a female outdoor enthusiast or amateur athlete than anything else, and I wanted to see people like me represented in books where the focus wasn't necessarily on culture or race. I just wanted people to see that girls like me can have fun outdoors and kick butt at male dominated sports, too. This book does that. 

Interior art from IF YOU GIVE A GIRL A BIKE by Hayley Diep, Illustrated by Braden Hallett

It is written to inspire young girls, specifically young girls of color, to get outside and try these sports that are mostly dominated by White men. It is written in a circular story style and includes vocabulary from each sport. 

What’s up next for you?

I am working on a few picture book biographies and a middle grade book. I’m just having fun and seeing where these projects go. 

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

The Little Mermaid. Honestly, I googled a list of 80s movies and picked my favorite from that list :)

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Huge thank you to Hayley for stopping by Critter Lit today! Congrats on your debut!

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HAYLEY DIEP writes and teaches in the Bay Area. When she isn't doing either, you can usually find her reading a book, mountain biking, rock climbing, or riding her longboard with her husband and friends.

FOR MORE INFORMATION about Hayley or her book, visit her online: www.hayleydiep.com

Or follow her on social media:

Instagram: hayleydiepwrites

Facebook and Twitter: hayleyrdiep

ORDER THIS BOOK To order a copy of IF YOU GIVE A GIRL A BIKE, click here.

WIN A COPY! Want to win a copy of IF YOU GIVE A GIRL A BIKE?! Leave a COMMENT below or RETWEET this post on Twitter. One lucky winner will be announced on Thursday, March 4th! US addresses only please.

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.

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

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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 Debut Author Jeff Goodman

Happy Thursday Critters! I hope you are all staying warm out there— because it is freezing in Ohio! So it seems fitting that we are chatting with a debut author today from sunny Los Angeles to warm things up a bit.

Please welcome Jeff Goodman to Critter Lit!

Where do you live?

My wife, daughter, and I live in Los Angeles, where I was born and raised. It’s a crazy metropolis that doesn’t make sense in many ways, but it’s beautiful all the same.

When did you know you wanted to write picture books?

Writing a children’s book has been a goal of mine for many years. I really got inspired to make it happen after the birth of my daughter, which reconnected me to children’s literature in a new and more meaningful way.

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

It all started with a birthday present: Through an elementary school auction, my wife bought me a consultation meeting with a local publisher. That initial meeting led to many months of revising, editing, and market research — all before finding an illustrator, creating a draft layout, and putting the finishing touches on the book before making it available to the public. The process required ample collaboration, and as a debut author I was grateful to have the guidance and encouragement of experienced professionals. I now have a much better understanding of how much work goes into the creation of a 24-page children’s book! 

Can you share a bit about your process?

My concept — a children’s book about a dozen eggs, each cooked differently to reveal a different emotion — became an exercise in trial and error. It required lots of mixing and matching! In addition, since I wanted to make a rhyming book, it took significant time to find age-appropriate words to fit into the ABCB stanza structure. It helps that I’m a bit of a word nerd; I enjoyed the challenge of emphasizing the right syllables in each line while maintaining the desired meaning. My thesaurus got a great workout.

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

Spend time with children. As a parent, uncle, and literacy volunteer (shout-out to Reading to Kids), I’m always amazed at the new insights and fresh perspectives I glean from the little ones in my life. Their curiosity, fascinations, and sense of wonder are contagious!

Anything you can’t live without while you write?

I love listening to music, but I find that I often get distracted by lyrics when I’m writing. So, I usually opt for instrumental artists: Ludovico Eindaudi, Lance Allen, Chris Thile, The Greyboy Allstars, and The Six Parts Seven, to name a few.

Any authors and/or illustrators who inspire you?

I’ll always admire Shel Silverstein’s clever use of language; his work manages to be fun, memorable, and poignant. And I’m truly inspired by the brilliance of Gabriella Urbina, who illustrated my debut children’s book; I still marvel at her technical skills and her ability to convert ideas into images.

Dream project to work on?

I’m a huge basketball fan, so it would be pretty special to incorporate my love of hoops into a children’s book somehow.

Tell us about your debut book.

Feel Like Eggs? is about a carton of a dozen eggs, each cooked a different way to reveal a different emotion. It’s the rhyming answer to the question, “Why express yourself when you can eggs-press yourself?” Featuring plenty of wordplay and charming illustrations, the book is a fun foray into social-emotional learning for the little ones in your life.

What’s up next for you?

I have a few additional manuscripts for children’s books in the works, and I hope to bring them to life in the near future.

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

Hmm ... either Ferris Bueller’s Day Off or Rain Man, depending on my mood.

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Huge thank you to Jeff for stopping by Critter Lit today! Congrats on your debut!

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JEFF GOODMAN wrote Feel Like Eggs? to help kids understand and express the feelings they experience in their daily lives. As an award-winning journalist and school communications specialist, Jeff has written extensively about education, child development, and social-emotional learning. He currently works in communications at UCLA. An alumnus of UC Berkeley, Jeff lives in Los Angeles with his wife and daughter.

FOR MORE INFORMATION about Jeff and his book, visit his website at jeffgoodmanauthor.com or follow him on social media:

Facebook: fb.me/jeffgoodmanauthor

Twitter: @jeffgodman2

Instagram: @jeffgoodman2

ORDER THIS BOOK To order a copy of Jeff’s book, click here.

WIN A COPY! Want to win a copy of FEEL LIKE EGGS?! Leave a COMMENT below or RETWEET this post on Twitter. One lucky winner will be announced on Thursday, February 17th! 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.

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

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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 Author Jennifer Grant

Where do you live?

I live in Chicago. I grew up here, have lived in Dallas, TX; Holland, MI; Taos, NM; Grants Pass, OR; and Brooklyn, NY. 

How many years have you been in publishing?

My first book, Love You More (for adults), was published in 2011, but prior, to that, I published many newspaper columns, blog posts, and articles. 

How did you first get published?

My first book for children was published in 2016. The opportunity to write it came after I did some consulting work for the publisher. (I'd submitted work to an anthology and then did some editing and cleaning up of a translated manuscript.) The editor asked me to write a picture book for them; I'd wanted to write for kids for a long time, so I was delighted for the chance! 

Do you write full-time?

Yes, I do. I also work as an editor/editorial consultant. 

What inspires you to create picture books?

I always have about a dozen stories percolating in my mind. Sometimes a snippet of conversation gives me an idea. Sometimes my dog (or another dog at the park) does something funny, and I get an idea. Sometimes, in conversation with a little kid, they'll say something hilarious or insightful and I go write that down.  

What surprised you the most working as an author?

I'm always surprised at how hard it is to get a story right and how many times I need to read it out loud before calling it "done." 

What is your favorite thing about being an author?

I love almost everything about it. I love the creative process, getting into flow, seeing the story come alive with visual art, and I love getting to know other children's authors. 

What do you find difficult working as an author?

The promotion piece (when a book is about to launch or has just launched) is my least favorite part. I'm an introvert and having to post, Tweet, make noise about the new book on various social media platforms goes against my nature...but I know it's important as I do actually want to help people find my books.

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

Reading books like Julia Cameron's The Artist's Way or other creativity books can be helpful. Honestly, though, I have a few file folders, thick with slips of paper with little germs of ideas on them. 

Anything you are habitual about when it comes to creativity?

This might sound funny, but the only thing that comes to mind is that I have a big, backyard bird feeder and I spend a lot of time watching birds. That kind of time lets me daydream (and I have written about birds on a feeder in a new board book series that comes out in a year or so) and unclutter my mind. I try to have at least 20-30 minutes of daydreamy time every day. 

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

Having worked for newspapers, with many writers and editors in "grown up" publishing, I can honestly say that kid lit people are the best! They're silly, inventive, and very supportive of one another. When, for instance, A Little Blue Bottle first launched, my kid lit friends came out in force, Tweeting about it, posting reviews, and generally helping spread the word about it. 

Recommended reading?

• Writing Picture Books by Ann Whitford Paul (self-explanatory!)

• How to Raise a Reader by Pamela Paul and Maria Russo (wonderful book about reading to kids at various ages, but helpful for writers, too)

• Somebody Loves You Mr. Hatch by Eileen Spinelli, illustrated by Paul Yalowitz (one of my favorite picture books)

• What's Cooking at 10 Garden Street by Felicita Sala (I discovered this online recently; such a delightful book about all the people in an apartment building making dinner; richly diverse, includes recipes, and I love the illustrations. I wish I had written it!)

• Little Mole Finds Hope by Glenys Nellist, illustrated by Sally Garland (Full disclosure: Glenys, a prolific kid lit author, is a friend of mine, but honestly this is one of the best books for children I've ever read.)

What has been the highlight of your career thus far?

My books for kids have won a few awards, which was really special. But I would have to say, the highlight of writing for kids is hearing how they connect with the books. I recently heard from my niece, who's a young mom, and she lives in Chicago and her 2 year-old loves my book Maybe I Can Love My Neighbor Too. She told me that, before bed, he likes her to take him outside and he shouts, "Goodnight My Neighbors" over the fence! I love that!

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

Perhaps to get really involved ASAP with the Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators. Go to local or national conferences. Go to online or in-person meet-ups. It's so great to have a supportive community--I'd have gotten involved sooner if someone had told me how helpful it can be. 

Can you tell us about your newest book?

My most recently published picture book, A Little Blue Bottle, is about a friendship between a little girl and her elderly neighbor. When the neighbor dies, the girl begins to process her grief with her mother. It's a very quiet book, and I hope it will be a comfort to children who are grieving. 

Interior art from A LITTLE BLUE BOTTLE written by Jennifer Grant, Illustrated by Gillian Whiting

What’s up next for you?

In fall 2021, I have a new picture book coming out. I'm working with the artist who illustrated A Little Blue Bottle, but she has created a very different look for the book. It's a book about the pandemic, telling the story of what happened in a way that I hope will acknowledge children's experiences of this time and also bring them hope. I have a board book series (about counting, colors, and the night sky) coming out after that. 

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

Sometimes people assume that, because they are short, picture books are easy to write. 

I encourage anyone who would like to write this category of kid lit to get really serious about the craft, and:

a) join the SCBWI (you don't have to have published a book yet)

b) do your homework (if you were writing a work of fiction for adults, you'd spend time plotting out the arc of the story, doing research on and creating a rich back story for the characters, and so on. Do the same for your picture book.)

c) follow your favorite picture book writers online (I recommend, for instance, the writer Josh Funk's website, and he has a lot of "writer resources" on his site, https://www.joshfunkbooks.com/)

d) remember to have fun, be playful, and let your imagination take you into wonderful places.

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

Oh wow -- I graduated from high school in 1985, so I'm all about the 80s movies! Die Hard is my favorite 80s Christmas movie, I'm quite fond of the "Bill and Ted" movies (including the new, third one!), but as a Chicagoan, I have to say Ferris Bueller's Day Off is my all-time favorite with The Breakfast Club and Pretty in Pink as a close second and third. 

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Huge thank you to Jennifer for stopping by Critter Lit today! Congratulations on all your books! We can’t wait to see what you come out with next.

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JENNIFER GRANT is the author of five books for adults and several for children, including the award-winning picture book Maybe God is Like That Too. A former newspaper columnist, she lives with her husband and rescue dog Scarlett in Chicago.

FOR MORE INFORMATION about Jennifer or her books, visit her online at www.jennifergrant.com. Or follow her on social media:

Twitter: @jennifercgrant

Instagram: @jennifergrantwriter

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

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

WIN A COPY! Want to win a copy of A LITTLE BLUE BOTTLE?! Leave a COMMENT below or RETWEET this post on Twitter. One lucky winner will be announced on Thursday, January 21st! US addresses only please.