tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29982659689194385282024-03-05T23:22:58.780-08:00The Very Hungry AuthorA Journey into Authorhood with Nicole Benoit Azark
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13075426993442769723noreply@blogger.comBlogger23125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2998265968919438528.post-2144379672862457542015-12-31T09:29:00.000-08:002016-05-17T10:10:26.827-07:00Top 5 Writing Celebrations of 2015<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"> Yes, I've been on hiatus for a while (and will continue to be so, see #1 below for my very good reason why). But as it's the end of another year, I feel the need to take stock. </span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">One of my favorite posts from last year was <a href="http://theveryhungryauthor.blogspot.com/2014/12/top-5-writing-celebrations-of-2014.html" target="_blank">Top 5 Writing Celebrations of 2014</a>, which was a great writing year for me. 2015, well...not as great in terms of writing, though I do have a few moments of honorable mention:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b>5. Starting a new project.</b> I'd been working on <i>The Sleepers</i> and a couple of picture books for so long, that it felt really great to set all that aside and begin research and drafting on a new middle grade novel. My critique group loved the idea, too! Sneak peak: an alternate history set in the 1960's in which females, not males, are and have been the dominant sex. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b>4. </b></span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b>SCBWI Illinois Spring Thaw. </b></span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Although I've been a dedicated attendee of Prairie Writer's Day, I found a new conference that offered a smaller and more intimate setting. Here's my full </span><a href="http://theveryhungryauthor.blogspot.com/2015/03/scbwi-illinois-spring-thaw.html" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: large;">account</span></a><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"> of the day. Hopefully I will continue to attend in years to come! </span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"> </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b>3. Finally reading my book aloud to my students. </b></span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">See the full </span><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://theveryhungryauthor.blogspot.com/2015_05_01_archive.html" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;" target="_blank">post</a><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">here, but this was so fun to hear my story come to life, and the 4th Grader </span><a href="http://theveryhungryauthor.blogspot.com/2015/06/my-first-book-review.html" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: large;">reviews</span></a><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"> I got made all the hard work worth it! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b>2. </b></span><b style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;"> </b><b style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Querying my MG manuscript <i>The Sleepers</i>.</span></b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"> Although it resulted in a round of resounding "no thank you's," it felt very good to finally put my work out there and give it a try. Round two of querying still on deck.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"> <b>1. A big celebration, though technically not a <i>writing</i> celebration. </b></span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">The Very Hungry Author is still quite hungry; just more in the physical sense rather than "hungry to chase my author dreams" sense. I've been busy on another little project.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"> That's right, this author is pregnant! When I found out over the summer, I was sure that my due date/deadline in March would motivate me that much more to write, write, write because, of course, once the baby is here I'll be sleep-deprived and barely able to form coherent thoughts. Not to mention, baby's schedule and needs will all of a sudden take a major front seat to MY schedule and needs. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"> I was wrong.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"> Evidently, my brain and body can only work on one major creative project at a time (I've always been bad at multi-tasking). My biggest effort in this area in the past 6 months has been one revised query and an earnest attempt to attend my monthly writing critique group meetings. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"> My <i>favorite</i> thing lately is the tremendous guilt I feel when eyeing my stacks of manuscripts and inactive blog, or seeing that my also-pregnant critique partner is still writing, or noticing how successful everyone else is being in their writing careers (like my old time BFF-turned-inspiration <a href="http://jessicalawsonbooks.com/" target="_blank">Jessica Lawson</a>, who has her 3rd MG novel <i><a href="http://books.simonandschuster.com/Waiting-for-Augusta/Jessica-Lawson/9781481448390" target="_blank">Waiting for Augusta</a></i> coming out in spring 2016!) </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"> Alas, I'm trying my best not to feel too guilty, as I've been told I'll have plenty of mom guilt over other things as soon as baby arrives. I suppose this is one of those sacrifices I hear about that parents make for their children (did I mention I also gave up my writing office to be a nursery? My desk has been relinquished to the basement). I'm going to count "lack of writing motivation" as my worst pregnancy symptom, in which case I know I can consider myself incredibly lucky because so far I have somehow avoided most of the very unpleasant things that expectant mothers have come to expect. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"> But, I'm not done! Just on a little break from the blog for now, and planning to continue my writing projects. Stay tuned! And, if there are any mommies out there with tips on how to carve out writing time with an infant, I will be happy to hear them.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Happy New Year to all! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">May your 2016 be filled with new adventures, lots of love, and not too much guilt over resolutions not achieved!</span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13075426993442769723noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2998265968919438528.post-84243161089867910262015-08-23T16:54:00.000-07:002015-08-23T16:54:33.498-07:00Help! My Query Letter Isn't Working (or, Query Letter Resources) <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Query Letter not working? Try again!<br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> In general, there are two different kinds of rejections in the publishing world. There are form rejections, and there are personalized rejections. What I've been told is that a form rejection means you probably need to work on your query, because the agents probably aren't reading any further. Personalized rejections, while still rejections, are a bit more celebration-worthy because it means the agent probably read some of your actual manuscript and has actual suggestions or reasons the project is not for them. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> I got all form rejections. This may not sound great, but I'm not surprised. This is where most authors start out, and although I fantasized about being one of the only authors EVER to land an agent on my first round of querying, I knew that most likely would not be the reality. So, after receiving a round of "thanks, but no thanks" responses to my agent queries, I know what I must do: try again. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> In order to learn more about query letters, and in order to help anyone else out there in a similar position, I've gathered a list of great resources on query letters. Have fun researching, and as always, if YOU have any great resources or tips on query letters, please share!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><a href="https://janefriedman.com/2014/04/11/query-letters/" target="_blank">The Complete Guide to Query Letters:</a> Here are the basic necessities, spelled out step-by-step </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://queryshark.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Query Shark:</a> This is a great blog by agent Janet Reid that includes queries that got a YES, and suggested revisions to submitted queries--kind of like a tutorial. You can also follow her on Twitter @QueryShark.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.writersdigest.com/online-editor/the-10-dos-and-donts-of-writing-a-query-letter" target="_blank">10 Dos and Don'ts of Query Letters:</a> short, sweet and to-the-point, by Writer's Digest. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.adweek.com/galleycat/23-literary-agent-query-letters-that-worked/77310" target="_blank">23 Query Letters that Worked:</a> I'm definitely a learn-by-example kind of gal, so I love seeing examples of real-life letters that were successful!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><a href="https://chasingthecrazies.wordpress.com/quite-the-query/" target="_blank">Quite the Query:</a> More successful letter examples (and featuring my friend Jessica Lawson...check out her voice-filled query!). </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://bookendslitagency.blogspot.com/2009/07/i-stop-reading-when.html" target="_blank">I Stop Reading When...</a>: Find out some common mistakes that immediately turn agents off.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://agentqueryconnect.com/index.php?/forum/2-aq-connect-query-critiques/" target="_blank">AgentQuery Connect</a>: an online forum to give and get advice on query letters. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><a href="https://johnmcusick.wordpress.com/2015/07/01/a-pretty-much-foolproof-never-fail-silver-bullet-query-opening/" target="_blank">A Pretty Much Foolproof, Never-Fail, Silver Bullet Query Opening:</a> If you like formulas, you'll like this. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.writersdigest.com/editor-blogs/guide-to-literary-agents/successful-queries" target="_blank">Read Over 60 Successful Queries:</a> More examples! Because really, we can all read and listen to how we're <i>supposed</i> to do it, but it's hard to know what works unless you see it. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.adventuresinyapublishing.com/2010/03/what-agents-dont-want.html" target="_blank">What Agents DON'T Want in Query Letters:</a> So now that you know what you <i>should</i> have, make sure you don't include any of these...</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large; text-align: center;"> Happy Querying!</span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13075426993442769723noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2998265968919438528.post-75782425616333489462015-08-02T12:59:00.002-07:002015-08-02T13:03:53.147-07:00Happy Birthday to the Very Hungry Author!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">The Very Hungry Author got started one year ago on July 30! In honor of my blog birthday, I'm going to take some time to get a little nostalgic and remind myself exactly why I love children's literature so much, why it matters, and why I've embarked on this challenging, fun journey in the first place. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> So here, in roughly the order I encountered them, are some of my favorite books that influenced me as a child reader and now, as an adult writer of children's books. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>1. The Very Hungry Caterpillar</i> by Eric Carle</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> Well, are you surprised? I'm sure I've mentioned before that is is one of my favorite baby/toddler books. I typically gift it to brand-new babies as a board book so they can stick their fingers in all the little holes with no fear of ripping pages. Creative, colorful, and quite literally transformative. Not to mention, all that yummy food! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>2. The Monster at the End of this Book </i>by Jon Stone</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> My first exposure to a clever twist ending when (spoiler alert) after much worry, Grover discovers that HE is the monster at the end of the book. Genius and hilarious. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> I actually adored several Sesame Street books, including <i>Don't Forget the Oatmeal</i>, featuring predictable conflict between Bert and Ernie, and <i>Down on the Farm with Grover</i>, featuring predictable Grover antics like feeding spaghetti to the cows. Children love repetition and predictability, especially if it's all mixed with humor. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>3. Corduroy </i>by Don Freeman</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> Who in the world didn't feel awful for the poor bear without a home (and equally important, a button)? This is a simple book with a simple message about belonging and home, yet it's delivered through such a sweet and memorable character that it is an absolute classic. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>4. Ramona Quimby, Age 8 </i>by Beverly Cleary</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> On to chapter books. My first memory of this book is my dad reading it aloud to me at bedtime, then me reading it myself (and the rest of the series) once I was old enough. Love Ramona's fresh perspective on things, love her odd-man-out (er, odd-girl-out) lot in life. Her quirkiness was so refreshing, especially to someone who wasn't necessarily part of the "popular" crowd. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> In 3rd grade, my best friend and I decided to be Ramona and Beezus for Halloween. I happened to be getting my hair cut in October and asked the hairdresser to cut my hair like Beezus. She looked at me in the mirror and said "What's a Beezus??" Oh, grown-ups. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b>5. <i>Where the Sidewalk Ends </i>by Shel Silverstein</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> This was read and re-read and re-re-read. Such great humor, rhythms, and illustrations. I still love reading these out loud to my students, and they still love listening. One of my favorites: Sarah Cynthia Sylvia Stout Would Not Take the Garbage Out. Why can't I be this clever? </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>6. Garfield</i> by Jim Davis</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> While not technically a children's book, I had a small collection of these books that I would pull out in the middle of the night if I couldn't sleep or got scared (telling you, WAY too active of an imagination here. I still scare myself just starting to imagine creepy things that go bump in the night. Maybe I should still have some of these in my nightstand). Anyway, Garfield is a wonderfully developed character who hates Mondays and loves lasagna. Sweet humor that will take your mind off murderous come-to-life dolls or shadow goblins. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>7. The Babysitter's Club</i> by Ann M. Martin</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> This is when it would be accurate to say I started to read voraciously; when I was about 8 or 9 and read literally one of these a day over summer break. I think my mom actually got tired of continually taking me back to the library to replenish my supply. Maybe not the world's most amazing literature, but it doesn't always have to be. Ann M. Martin hit on a niche that little girls loved (and still do; last year one of my students was reading <i>The Ghost at Dawn's House</i> and I couldn't wait for her to finish so we could discuss). </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>8. Anastasia Krupnik</i> by Lois Lowry</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> Fabulous. Read the entire series and still think of Anastasia as one of the first strong female characters I related to. Funny, thoughtful, smart. I recommend these books still to many of my girl students that don't like the typical "little girl" books that are out there now (not that there's anything wrong with those). </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> I remember one joke that went over my head at the time. Anastasia heard her parents talking about salmonella. Not understanding it was the name of a type of food poisoning, she assumed they were talking about a man, Sal Monella. The irony is that it went over BOTH of our heads, until years later when I learned of salmonella and finally got the joke. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>9. Harriet the Spy</i> by Louise Fitzhugh</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> This book is so chock-full of interesting characters, it isn't dull for a second. And, although I had no idea what they were, the chocolate egg cremes that Harriet got after school had me drooling. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> In 5th grade, my class put on this play. I was Mrs. Robinson, half of the snobby, stuffy, rich couple on Harriet's spying route. Fun stuff. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">...and saving the best for last, as I love to do, my all-time favorite children's chapter book:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>10. The Giver</i> by Lois Lowry</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> Where do I start? I've read this book many times, probably because the first reading of it left such a strong impression on me. The book requires the reader to put things together as the pages turn, with little explanations (I know now this is called world-building, as opposed to info dump where the reader is basically told outright what they need to know). </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> As a child, it's a little confusing at first, but I loved that Lois Lowry respected my mind enough to know I'd figure it all out; and how much more delicious it was when it all clicked! This book forces the reader to re-examine so many small aspects of our lives that we take for granted. How would you describe sunshine to someone who's never experienced it? Snow? Pain? Love? And is society better off without these things? (I think we all know the answer to that). </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> This was the book that led me down the path of alternate society/ speculative fiction books, which I now write myself. My favorite question as an author is "what if?" I love answering my own questions by creating new worlds and putting all my imaginings on the page. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> Thinking about my favorite children's books is definitely inspiring and motivating as I continue to polish my craft. There are dozens more I could add to this list, but these ten were the first that popped into my head (that's right, I wasn't really a <i>Goodnight Moon</i> or Dr. Seuss girl). Even if you're not a big reader as an adult, I guarantee you can think of at least a few books that shaped your childhood. Children make such an emotional connection with books, which is why children's literature is so important. Funny, touching, beautiful, simple, sweet...they're all crucial in developing a child's love of reading, pathway to learning, and new views of the world. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> </span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"> Now, what were some of YOUR favorite children's books? Let's reminisce! </span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13075426993442769723noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2998265968919438528.post-63289873763018829732015-07-08T14:58:00.000-07:002015-07-08T14:58:17.273-07:00Mid-Year Review<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> Here we are, halfway through 2015 (I know, when did that happen?) </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Since I consider my writing a second job, I thought it would be a good time to give myself a mid-year review. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> As a refresher, here are my 2015 New Year's Resolutions:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">1. Read more blogs about writing, and make comments. Goal: one new blog/comment per week. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> Well, we're starting off with a fail. I have done neither of these things on a weekly basis. Perhaps this resolution was too ambitious. I'm going to change it to one or two a month and go from there. Baby-step to make it more likely: compose a list of writing blogs so I can easily click and read when I have time. Have ideas of writing blogs for me? Please leave them in comments!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">2. Do at least two rounds of queries for my middle grade novel. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> Ok, this one I feel better about! I have done one round of querying (eight agents) and await to hear from seven of them still (first reply was a "no." Add it to the Rejection Tally). Most agents say they'll respond or pass within eight weeks, so that gives me plenty of time for a second round of querying in the fall!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">3. Begin new middle grade novel (I have two ideas I'm kicking around...will let you know which wins). </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> Another win! I have begun a new middle grade novel while I'm waiting to hear back from agents. My new project: an alternate history set in Chicago in the 1960's, in which gender roles are reversed, i.e. women are the dominant sex. Told from the point of view of Theo, a 12-year-old boy who wants nothing more than to grow up, get married, stay home and raise his kids. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">4. Write two blog posts per month.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> Well...not quite. If I'd stuck to this I should have 12 posts this year and I have 8. Three quarters of the way isn't too awful, right? My husband and I bought a house, packed, and moved all between the end of February and the end of March, which sunk writing way, way down on my list of priorities. But it has risen to the top once again! (song playing in my head: "Survivor" by Destiny's Child)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> No need to wallow in the mud of my failures...let's celebrate two out of four resolutions (I mean really, two and three quarters)!! And I now resolve to try a little harder on following other writing blogs, and continue with my own blog posts. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> Now for you: there are 6 more months left in the 2015 calendar. Time to do a little self-evaluation of your own...revisit resolutions, see where you're at, and re-resolve, if needed. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">How have you done on your New Year's Resolutions? Can you remember what they are?</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> I wish you the best of luck in tackling old goals and creating new ones, and I celebrate with you in what you've already accomplished thus far! And, even if you think you haven't done much in the way of your goals this year, here's a little Pooh Wisdom to keep in mind: </span><br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13075426993442769723noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2998265968919438528.post-23101527830671768172015-06-26T09:40:00.000-07:002015-06-27T06:29:41.894-07:00She's At It Again!<br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> Hats off, again, to my childhood best friend <a href="http://jessicalawsonbooks.com/" target="_blank">Jessica Lawson</a> on the release of her second novel, NOOKS & CRANNIES! She continues to be uber-impressive, cranking out fantastic novels while caring for two big kids and two little ones. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> I haven't read it yet (don't worry, it's at the top of my summer reading list), but here is a little blurb: </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Tabitha Crum is a girl with a big imagination and a love for mystery novels, though her parents think her only talent is being a nuisance. She doesn't have a friend in the world, except her pet mouse, Pemberley, with whom she shares her dingy attic bedroom.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Then, on the heels of a rather devastating announcement made by her mother and father, Tabitha receives a mysterious invitation to the country estate of the wealthy but reclusive Countess of Windermere, whose mansion is rumored to be haunted. There, she finds herself among five other children, none of them sure why they've been summoned. But soon, a very big secret will be revealed--a secret that will change their lives forever and put Tabitha's investigative skills to the test. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> I believe Jessica described it as CHARLIE & THE CHOCOLATE FACTORY meets CLUE. Plus, I detect a couple references to MATILDA and even PRIDE & PREJUDICE. Can't wait!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> If you're interested in winning a free copy, check out Jessica and her agent Tina Wexler as they discuss middle grade voice <a href="http://www.literaryrambles.com/2015/06/agent-tina-wexler-and-author-jessica.html?showComment=1435335760926#c1274391227986455863" target="_blank">here</a>. You can also win a free query critique by Tina if you're a writer! </span></div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13075426993442769723noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2998265968919438528.post-24947249588804888232015-06-16T14:53:00.000-07:002015-06-25T10:26:45.831-07:00My First Book Review<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQuuQrXc8UzBm_vC8TVQCFOHqPLYiZGIab_wODRlHub6Zwhe1jtLpomE5ufkEh7qYoyquV7s39KVkrQp2mOKC2uSOYee8zKYPyS6KhmQ2O1X0i80JYzGrcDYYe50PU7l3qMfJWeWahAWET/s1600/The+Very+Hungry+Author+I+WIsh.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQuuQrXc8UzBm_vC8TVQCFOHqPLYiZGIab_wODRlHub6Zwhe1jtLpomE5ufkEh7qYoyquV7s39KVkrQp2mOKC2uSOYee8zKYPyS6KhmQ2O1X0i80JYzGrcDYYe50PU7l3qMfJWeWahAWET/s200/The+Very+Hungry+Author+I+WIsh.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> The long awaited moment has arrived: on the last day of school, I finished reading my middle grade book <i>The Sleepers</i> to my 4th grade class. Then, I confessed. I apologized for lying to them, and told them it was not written by my friend, but by me (click <a href="http://theveryhungryauthor.blogspot.com/2015/05/back-to-heart-of-matter.html" target="_blank">here</a> for my original post from when I began reading it to my class). </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> I wish I had photographed their faces. Imagine shock + delight + pride. I also wish I'd had time for a more formal feedback process, but it was a rather hectic day. After having missed the previous 4 days of school for jury duty, I had to try to squeeze what I'd normally do in a week in one day. On top of that, our end-of-the-year picnic was moved indoors due to thunderstorms. But as they sat eating their Dairy Queen lunch, I gathered what feedback I could and scribbled it down so I'd remember. Two of my students were motivated enough to write down a review for me. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> <b>Here are 4th graders' reviews and comments about <i>The Sleepers</i>:</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">"Fantastic book! Very suspenseful and adventurous! If this book gets published I call dibs on the first book!" (hand drawn: 7 stars)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">"One of the best reads of my life. Okay, of 4th grade."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">"You can retire from teaching when this gets published."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">"Mrs. Azark, I. Am. Impressed."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">"How did you get the idea?"</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">"I'd recommend that book to my friends."<b>*</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">"When I'm in college, and my friends have your book on their bookshelves, I'll be able to say I know the author!"</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">"I don't know if this is good or bad, but there are lots of cliffhangers. It's good because it makes you want to keep reading, but it's bad when you have to stop."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">"Can I have your autograph? It'll be worth millions."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">"When this books gets published, I'm going to be the #1 person to buy it. And it WILL be published."<b>*</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">"I love this book!"<b>*</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">"It's kind of like The Giver, how it takes place in a 'perfect' society." <b>*</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">"When this book is on the New York Times Bestsellers list, I'll say 'That's my 4th grade teacher!'"</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">*comment from before they knew I wrote it</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> In addition to these comments, many of them were very concerned with what the cover of the book would look like. I insisted that I wouldn't have much input, but they shared their ideas anyway. So, prospective publishers, I have 27 children with ideas for the cover in case your artists can't think of anything. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> It was a pretty cool feeling to see how excited they were about my book. I felt like a celebrity answering questions and talking about it with my kids. So, now I've completed my own market test, and I can't see what would be better proof to an agent or publisher that my book is worth taking on! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13075426993442769723noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2998265968919438528.post-34512302158389346152015-06-07T13:45:00.000-07:002015-06-09T04:55:19.593-07:00Writing Workout: Wart<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7mCJytmXsgYfz184GJlX4_5mL82mger42hS29EIaMI2UnaqKr9pXxNeFzd0Zr1-JPlGwpCmA_0MZ9yD2_dp7BsOnelO3n2AKTVuwCmmDCi9zTz-vm5qreoBKfvoc-L5FkWXEcTwqnfEiu/s1600/The+Very+Hungry+Author+writing+workout.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="141" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7mCJytmXsgYfz184GJlX4_5mL82mger42hS29EIaMI2UnaqKr9pXxNeFzd0Zr1-JPlGwpCmA_0MZ9yD2_dp7BsOnelO3n2AKTVuwCmmDCi9zTz-vm5qreoBKfvoc-L5FkWXEcTwqnfEiu/s400/The+Very+Hungry+Author+writing+workout.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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In need of a writing workout? </div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> The SCBWI (Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators) is hosting a new monthly writing prompt. The first 500 entries will be posted in their online gallery so others in the writing community, including agents and editors, can see little morsels of work by writers. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> I could definitely use some writing exercises to keep me fresh, so I thought I'd give this a go and post my entry on the blog just for fun--and feedback! If you have any ideas or tips that can help me improve, let's hear them! Also, if you're a fellow writer, or are just looking for something to get your creative juices flowing, have a crack at it and post in the comments section! If you're a SCBWI member, <a href="http://www.scbwi.org/write-this-guidelines/" target="_blank">enter your writing</a> to be posted online. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> <b> JULY PROMPT: Write a description of a children's book character using no more than fifty words. The prompt word is WART. </b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Ready, go!</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-large;">Greasy knuckle hair, moldy toe fungus, puss-filled pimples, and
skunk breath…Wart is a typical ogre. But those aren’t the qualities that
disgust his friends. It’s his overwhelming passion for baking pink petit fours.
What can Wart do to get others to enjoy
his delicate creations? </span><o:p></o:p></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13075426993442769723noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2998265968919438528.post-54419831687209249382015-05-03T14:36:00.000-07:002015-05-03T14:36:05.171-07:00Back to the Heart of the Matter<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjr0LcO4XyUGs3nJOvhWSW_xHHxEgfgsJWfP1qjLnLKSa5rDctDsykbDvtCHT0UlGyaKVRUQz5p6Px8Rb7bH8zA0EXAzLRpC-g-LPsb5duOBsk2oZzpadkpR4V3D-q6HOoK-BXWEGBSAVz0/s1600/the+very+hungry+author+kids+love+books.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjr0LcO4XyUGs3nJOvhWSW_xHHxEgfgsJWfP1qjLnLKSa5rDctDsykbDvtCHT0UlGyaKVRUQz5p6Px8Rb7bH8zA0EXAzLRpC-g-LPsb5duOBsk2oZzpadkpR4V3D-q6HOoK-BXWEGBSAVz0/s1600/the+very+hungry+author+kids+love+books.jpg" height="400" width="290" /></a></div>
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Children's books can take kids to some amazing places (grown-ups too!)</div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> Hello again! Remember me? I know, it's been a while and yes I KNOW I haven't stuck to my New Year's Resolution of two posts a month. I could explain my really, really good reasons why I haven't posted in a couple of months, and I'm sure you'd agree they are really, really good reasons. But let's just get to the good stuff, yes?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> I've been wanting to read aloud my MG manuscript for a while, partly just so I can hear the awkward sentences and the confusing parts for myself, but also to get some audience feedback. I started reading it aloud to my husband who is a wonderful listener but a not-so-enthusiastic reader. That went fine, but he's not my target audience. Plus, because he's been my sounding board all along, he already knows the plot and all the surprises along the way. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> So, after finally finishing Jessica Lawson's <i>The Actual and Truthful Adventures of Becky Thatcher</i> aloud to my 4th grade students, I decided to try something I've never tried before: I began reading them my novel. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> They don't know it's my novel. Since they're in 4th grade, they still love everything their teacher does. I mean, I'm kind of a big deal in Room 302. I desperately want to tell them it's mine, but even more desperately want genuine feedback. So, I am going to wait until we finish to tell them. For now, they think it is the work of one of my writing group friends. (If you teach with me and are reading this, SHHHH!) They were SO excited when I told them they were the first kids in the world to hear this story.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> And, THEY LOVE IT! It feels absolutely amazing to see their reactions when something exciting or twisty happens, and my heart sings when it's the end of Read Aloud time and they whine for more--especially if I've left off on a cliffhanger, which I love doing to them. Every now and then I'll have moments as I'm reading to them: "I don't think they're going to know all these words," or "It's getting too confusing for them. Do they get it?" But when I ask them to summarize a chapter or tell what a character is like, they nail it. As we line up for PE class, they are still buzzing and murmuring to each other their predictions or guesses as to what's happening in the book. Happy dance! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> This is exactly why I started writing in the first place, and I love being reminded of it. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">If you are a pre-published author, I highly recommend getting your work into the hands of some children.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">With all the revising, conferencing, querying, worrying, second-guessing, and rejections that come along with writing a book, it's easy to lose sight of the big picture. The heart of the matter--I write to entertain and thrill children's minds. To create a fantastic place for them to go where the words on the page can let their imaginations soar. So, no matter what happens with this novel, my heart is content knowing that at least a few children have come into the little world I created and are loving every minute of being there. </span></div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13075426993442769723noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2998265968919438528.post-9163721523246173952015-03-07T18:52:00.000-08:002015-03-07T19:03:56.060-08:00SCBWI Illinois Spring Thaw 2015<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdjcCICP08h4A3pHPDdl0aUuTQhAOwAGkiCyE5nffsPX6jWg5DzzH0ZUxvXp2TESKeS5dSh9PzZDTpQY8xir-rFVkfoyiTpqlBoRrMsUE_VdDNix9Fzwfmr8RWPIUiQ6-avHI1Mn7tfmHc/s1600/SCBWI+Illinois+Spring+Thaw.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdjcCICP08h4A3pHPDdl0aUuTQhAOwAGkiCyE5nffsPX6jWg5DzzH0ZUxvXp2TESKeS5dSh9PzZDTpQY8xir-rFVkfoyiTpqlBoRrMsUE_VdDNix9Fzwfmr8RWPIUiQ6-avHI1Mn7tfmHc/s1600/SCBWI+Illinois+Spring+Thaw.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> What a perfect day for this year's SCBWI Illinois Spring Thaw: the sunny and "warm" weather (the low 40's after months of brutal below-zero windchills is paradise!) put everyone in a good mood and ready to dust off the winter's work to share and critique with others. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> Contrary to Prairie Writer's and Illustrator's Day back in November, this conference is much more intimate. Instead of sitting in a big conference room, we were at round tables where we got to interact and get to know people. I enjoyed the format (and the shorter day, and come to think of it, shorter drive) much better!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> Some of the highlights:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> <b> 1. </b> A keynote speech from agent Paul Rodeen of <a href="http://www.rodeenliterary.com/" target="_blank">Rodeen Literary Management</a> located right here in Chicago. One of the biggest takeaways from his speech was that when it comes down to it, if you want to get your book published, you need to be a really, really good writer. Duh, right? But, it's very easy to lose sight of that when you're constantly inundated with workshops on finding the right agent, and mastering the query letter. So, it was nice to be reminded what truly matters! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> <b>2.</b> Another keynote speech from Kelly Barrales-Saylor, an editor with <a href="http://www.albertwhitman.com/" target="_blank">Albert Whitman & Company</a> of Park Ridge. She was hilarious and personable, and broke publishing into three main feats of human strength (my words, not hers): Do Your Homework & Research; Submit Something Great; and Get Used to Rejection. I really appreciate her last point on rejection, which was that in fact, it's NOT the rejection that's the hardest part. It's learning to work with your editor/agent <i>after</i> being offered a deal on COMPLETELY CHANGING YOUR MANUSCRIPT. I get why that part is difficult, I do. But if I've been offered a book deal by an agent or editor, <i>I promise I will not mind this step.</i> I will do whatever they suggest to make my book the best it can be! But, I do think it's good for authors to go into this knowing that will happen. That even when your work has been "accepted" by the publishing world, it's still going to need some work. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> She also gave me a great idea for my blog: interview agents and editors! What better way to hobnob with the target audience, plus get some great advice? Stay tuned for this feature here. Kelly and I both work in Park Ridge...think she'll want to do lunch?</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> <b> 3.</b> Round Table discussions: We were seated according to book format (picture books, middle grade, YA, etc) and had two sessions where table members got to share the first 500 words of their work and get feedback from the group. This was great! It's always so nice to get fresh eyes on your work; particularly fresh eyes belonging to people familiar with the industry. I came away with a couple of good ideas and all kinds of warm fuzzies from my table-mates. I also scored a new e-mail beta reader/critique partner!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> <b>4.</b> A 15-minute one-on-one talk with an agent or editor who had read your first ten pages prior to the conference. Invaluable! For us pre-published authors, editors and agents often seem so inaccessible. So to have one read your work and discuss with you is so refreshing. My sit-down was with Paul Rodeen. He gave me a lot to think about, which felt overwhelming at first. I can definitely see the validity of several of his points...I'm just not ready to tackle them <i>yet</i>. I need to let his comments marinate for a while, then examine how I can incorporate them into my piece while still keeping it <i>my</i> piece. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> Getting personalized feedback can be so hard, because it's such a subjective industry. For every agent that likes your work and relates to your vision (which is probably only a few), there are hundreds who don't. It doesn't mean you're a bad writer or they're cruel agents, it just means there wasn't that much needed connection. It can feel very discouraging at times, but I relate it to dating, in search of "The One." You kiss a lot of frogs until you find your prince, so they say. Well, you also submit to a lot of frogs until you find your Agent (note: I'm not calling anyone there today a frog.)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> <b>5.</b> As with Prairie Writer's Day, the highlight of my experience came in the last 5 minutes, during the Mix & Mingle. I'm really starting to get the hang of these things--and with no cocktails, either! When I first learned Chicago-based <a href="http://www.andreabrownlit.com/agents.html" target="_blank">Andrea Brown</a> agent Jennifer Mattson would be on the panel, I freaked out. She is at the very tippy top of my dream-agent-list, after having read several interviews with her and about her work. What an opportunity! I patiently waited my turn to introduce myself and my work, and we had a great conversation in which she actually asked me more about my novel after hearing my "elevator pitch!" And THEN she said she'd love to take a look at it! Done! Hooray! She even loved my bookmark business card (thanks again <a href="http://12linestudio.com/" target="_blank">12 Line Studio</a>). </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> Now I just need to find a moment to submit to her amidst closing on a new house, moving, and a trip to Hawaii. Should be no problem :)</span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13075426993442769723noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2998265968919438528.post-80351715052088289672015-02-22T20:32:00.003-08:002015-02-22T20:35:06.498-08:00Writing Contests...To Enter or Not To Enter?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEJsR1FhybsCXV7m0YjzPR0j8Dp_2Mh2rX81sBb6BehrLCQ929kt2rzd7yYoT7_FsIAqRdDcwjSSq3Rl_iXKptjmvt_Oy4KRSyOTQnAlaOBxr92IVt5cM2hMDxhaDHYuYNUWVrQOUeAnXK/s1600/The+Very+Hungry+Author+on+Writing+Contests.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEJsR1FhybsCXV7m0YjzPR0j8Dp_2Mh2rX81sBb6BehrLCQ929kt2rzd7yYoT7_FsIAqRdDcwjSSq3Rl_iXKptjmvt_Oy4KRSyOTQnAlaOBxr92IVt5cM2hMDxhaDHYuYNUWVrQOUeAnXK/s1600/The+Very+Hungry+Author+on+Writing+Contests.jpg" height="320" width="277" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Many aspiring authors who are plugged into the writing social network have undoubtedly caught wind of many, many contests meant for newbie writers to get their work in front of agents. Some involve a Twitter Pitch alone, some are queries or first pages, or maybe even the first ten pages of a work. All sound glamorous and promising, and all can be a major time-suck. Many writers probably wonder "Should I enter? Is it worth my time to finesse a 140-character gripping hook for my novel versus spending that time actually revising said novel, working on my query, or researching prospective agents?"</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> Here's my take, as someone who has entered (and lost) several writing contests. Usually only one, or a few, authors win any given contest, so entering renders an individual very, very susceptible to losing (there are a LOT of aspiring authors out there, people). Upon finding out you weren't chosen, it can feel like a colossal waste of time time, resources, and hope. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">BUT...</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> The way I see it, every contest you enter gets you out there. Freeing your work into the world is important (duh, because how is it ever going to get published if no one sees it?). Every time you enter a contest, you get a little more used to other people seeing and critiquing your writing. And, every time you work on creating whatever is required for contest entry, you learn something about your work. Can you hook someone on your novel in 35 words or less? It's harder than it sounds...and I think that sounds pretty hard! After entering your first 250 words into a couple of contests and not winning, you might consider making some changes. When available, reading the winning entries can also teach a lot about what people in the industry are looking for. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> Conclusion: Enter contests, IF you have a finished manuscript. Don't kill yourself trying to enter every single one, but if you have time before a contest deadline, go for it! For every hour spent assembling a contest entry, spend two on continuing your other work. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Some upcoming contests:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">1) <a href="http://www.brenda-drake.com/2015/02/pitch-madness-submission-window-now-open-3/" target="_blank">Pitch Madness</a> from the contest queen, Brenda Drake (deadline is midnight February 23rd!!). I entered this year. This is the one where you write a 35-word hook, plus submit the first 250 words. 60 finalists move on to an agent round where agents duke it out to request partial or full manuscripts from finalists. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">2) <a href="http://www.scbwi.org/awards/grants/work-in-progress-grants/" target="_blank">SCBWI Work-in-Progress Grants</a> (submissions March 1-31). One winner in each category will have work presented to leading publishing houses. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">3) <a href="http://dyannjoyce.blogspot.com/2015/01/icbdkidlitartpitch-twitter-art-pitch.html" target="_blank">Twitter Art Pitch Party</a> for PB through MG (April 2). This one's for illustrators!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">4) Check out <a href="https://subitclub.wordpress.com/category/contests/page/2/" target="_blank">Sub It Club's Contest Page</a> for all kinds of smaller contests (win critiques or lessons, etc). </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> </span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">BEST OF LUCK IN ALL YOUR CONTESTS! </span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13075426993442769723noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2998265968919438528.post-8259826913470002172015-01-24T07:57:00.000-08:002015-01-24T07:57:22.014-08:00About the Author<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4KWDHQdJ_wwKEVHdoNn5VaKIRHUyacxyV4LLn4_Yb5YktVU0X4GdRjEiA07hM5xLUzGpUeaxyW_d-oSzYTVtrE9EAuJJ92OiW2Ukti4twpwYQtiOssPl5DbNJ6B4n_4Ozool0f2X6qBbE/s1600/The+Very+Hungry+Author+at+a+young+age.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4KWDHQdJ_wwKEVHdoNn5VaKIRHUyacxyV4LLn4_Yb5YktVU0X4GdRjEiA07hM5xLUzGpUeaxyW_d-oSzYTVtrE9EAuJJ92OiW2Ukti4twpwYQtiOssPl5DbNJ6B4n_4Ozool0f2X6qBbE/s1600/The+Very+Hungry+Author+at+a+young+age.JPG" height="320" width="239" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> Last summer I finally kept my promise & went over to my parents' house to start cleaning out my childhood bedroom. Unlike most of my friends, my parents have not moved, nor have they turned my old bedroom into a gym/office/crafting room. It's pretty much exactly the way I left it when I moved out. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> Going through boxes, I came across my 5th grade entry into the Young Author's contest. I LOVE that I found this, and I also love the irony that I am now co-director of the Young Author's contest at my school. Full circle, people, full circle. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> "Emerald" is a fantasy story in which the main character falls asleep and enters a magical world in order to find and save her missing father. The number of similarities to my current MG manuscript actually kind of weird me out. In my room-cleaning endeavor I also came across several other stories from as young as 2nd grade with similar themes ("My Trip to Cowzoomy,"and "Bubble Land.") I think it's really cool that the type of story I loved writing as a child--fantasy/sci-fi set in different worlds--is still the type of story I love writing as an adult.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> However, my favorite part of this find is my "About the Author" page at the end of the story:</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzKv8d4r6QE4SjBKJMTKFesZ4IvoNgQ97l1axHZXnUMyQd0RkOF2QigTM0K138pxE00byHf4rUupvi5oL1BijGsJ9SpkaeAOAmENpGiCq3XgnHssF7hPu4lONg9TWevCnO1CALVoI7-qVI/s1600/About+The+Very+Hungry+Author.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzKv8d4r6QE4SjBKJMTKFesZ4IvoNgQ97l1axHZXnUMyQd0RkOF2QigTM0K138pxE00byHf4rUupvi5oL1BijGsJ9SpkaeAOAmENpGiCq3XgnHssF7hPu4lONg9TWevCnO1CALVoI7-qVI/s1600/About+The+Very+Hungry+Author.JPG" height="476" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> In case you can't read my stellar cursive: "Nicole Benoit was born at Evanston Hospital on August 27, 1980. She has a dad, a mom, and a brother. She has a dog named Rowdy, and two goldfish named Polky and Gumby. She is ten and will be turning eleven this summer. Other stories recently written by Nicole are <u>The Search for the Devil's Head</u>, <u>Christmas Magic</u>, <u>The Selfish Peacock</u>, and <u>Pumpernickle</u>. She attends Hubbard Woods School and is in the 5th grade."</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> I think when I get published, this should be my "About the Author," no? </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> Anyway, I think finding my old writing at this time in my life is pretty much the definition of serendipity...it's meant to be. Look for my books "The Search for the Devil's Head" and "The Selfish Peacock" at a bookstore near you.</span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13075426993442769723noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2998265968919438528.post-46652533290041845552015-01-10T08:00:00.000-08:002015-01-10T08:14:09.297-08:00Make Your Resolutions Stick (Writing or Otherwise)<br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> I've had a love/hate relationship with New Year's Resolutions for the last several years, but not for the reasons most people have. Here's my beef: if there's something you want to change about your life, why wait 'til January to get started? I get it, it's a fresh start, a new year, the same reason all diets start on Monday. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> As a regular gym-goer, I always dread the January New-Year's-Resolution onslaught. No parking spots, no free lockers, and 15-minute waits for the ellipticals. Don't get me wrong--I applaud all the people trying to make a positive change in their lives. But, why now? And, wh</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">y don't I see the same people come June? </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"> My big thing recently is to just go ahead and get started on whatever change you want to make as soon as you think of it. I think we've all heard enough stories to realize that our time here is finite; so I say, let's get to it! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"> But, since so many people love the New Year as a time for resolutions, I'd like to offer a few tips I've found useful in actually carrying them out:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><b>1. Do it now.</b> (See above)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><b>2. Make it small and specific.</b> "Lose weight" is an awful resolution (note I said awful resolution, not <i>intention</i>). To make these things attainable, start small and avoid vague goals. Better resolutions might be "Stop drinking sugary soda," or "Work out twice a week." When you have something to work towards, and can then see yourself reaching your goals, it's much more motivating. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><b>3. Focus on one at a time.</b> Most of us have lots of areas of our lives we'd like to improve: work, health, family, friends, hobbies, finances. But if you try to tackle them all at once, you'll only get overwhelmed and end up accomplishing nothing. Choose one area to start with, and once you've tackled your small & specific goals there and feel comfortable maintaining them, then move on to another area. Or--don't! Relish your success and relax for a while. Good job, you!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><b>4. Get a buddy.</b> If you can't find a friend with a similar goal, then at least tell others about your resolution. Being accountable is a HUGE factor in carrying out your goals (see my previous <a href="http://theveryhungryauthor.blogspot.com/2014/12/top-5-writing-celebrations-of-2014.html" target="_blank">post</a> about this). If you're the only one who knows about it, it's much easier to just say "forget about it." But if you have someone striving toward the same thing you are, someone to ask you about your progress, or someone to remind you when you slip up--you can't just forget about it. My husband recently had a resolution that he didn't want to tell me because he knew I'd bug him about it if he didn't do it. Well, he's right. But now that I know it's something he's really trying for, I want to support him rather than nag him. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><b>5. Mistakes are okay.</b> Just because you botch it up and eat that whole package of Oreos does not mean all is lost. Enjoy the Oreos, and start again the next day. Making changes is hard, but don't ditch your resolution just because you aren't successful at it 100% of the time. Didn't anyone notice that I didn't write a blog post for over a month in November/December? Yeah, oops. But here I am, back at it.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><b>6. Reward Thyself:</b> I am a firm believer in giving yourself a little pat on the back for a job well done. Celebrate your successes--and not just at the end of the year. The summer I was training for my 1st marathon and writing my master's thesis, I'd tell myself I'd get an ice cream for every 10 pages written or after the really long runs (note: this reward is not ideal if your goal is losing weight. Maybe buy yourself new shoes or get your nails done instead). </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">And now, to follow my own advice on accountability, here are my small, specific </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Writing Resolutions for 2015</span></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">You hereby have permission to bug me if I don't do them....</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">-Read more blogs about writing, and make comments. Goal: one new blog/comment per week. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">-Do at least two rounds of queries for my middle grade novel (for non-writers, this means sending it out to agents).</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">-Begin new middle grade manuscript (I have two ideas I'm kicking around...will let you know which wins). </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">-Write 2 blog posts per month. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Meet you at the ice cream shop! </span></div>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13075426993442769723noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2998265968919438528.post-53527166084356784562014-12-29T14:31:00.002-08:002014-12-29T14:42:17.598-08:00Top 5 Writing Celebrations of 2014 <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF7jPwvhRtbR-HZXbdt0QfvAlLUNTSS58_L3nOXpu7-0yA2PCXtj4FqaR1vyT7bXERMZ3v7FHQrpek5_FqIx7qdAKzP1GOsP0Na7PC4ptJBG_ojgNdAuR5e7H-669GREm2IdPKLmv3u0EF/s1600/Nicole+Benoit+Azark+writing+&+reflecting.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF7jPwvhRtbR-HZXbdt0QfvAlLUNTSS58_L3nOXpu7-0yA2PCXtj4FqaR1vyT7bXERMZ3v7FHQrpek5_FqIx7qdAKzP1GOsP0Na7PC4ptJBG_ojgNdAuR5e7H-669GREm2IdPKLmv3u0EF/s1600/Nicole+Benoit+Azark+writing+&+reflecting.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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Writing...reflecting...looking deep, </div>
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all under the watchful eye of MJ</div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> A year-end is, of course, a wonderful time for reflection and goal-setting. Looking back on my year in writing, I am very happy with my progress. Though I say I've been writing seriously for about 4 years, 2014 was when I got REALLY serious. I put myself out there more than ever, and bumped writing up on my list of free-time activities, knocking out a few of my other favorite pastimes (apologies to my neglected piano as well as anyone expecting a homemade birthday or holiday card). Here, my top 5 celebrations in writing from the year: </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b>5. Connecting.</b> Just like many industries, writing is about much more than just writing. I won't say it's ALL about who you know, but it sure doesn't hurt to know some people. Since my teaching profession actually does not involve a ton of networking, this is new to me. For a while I hovered with my toes just inside the line of the writing community, but this year I stepped in (yeah, jumping in is just not my style) with both feet. And, ok, I think we technically reconnected in 2013, but this year I've so enjoyed chatting more and more with my first-best-friend-turned-children's-author, <a href="http://jessicalawsonbooks.com/" target="_blank">Jessica Lawson</a>. Still so psyched we found each other & share a passion for children's books!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b>4. Finishing my 1st Novel.</b> I may be the only person in Chicago thankful for the "Polar Vortex" or whatever you want to call the string of 40 below zero and snow-filled days in early 2014. These days provided me with many days off work, stuck at home cozied up to my laptop. I'd joined a SCBWI group called the NYNNies (a spin-off of NaNoWriMo that stands for "New Year New Novel") and the timing couldn't have been better. Though it was very, very, very rough, by January 31st I finished my first middle grade novel manuscript! Even better, I have now completed 2nd and 3rd drafts and am halfway through the 4th revision (can I finish by 2015? That's the goal!)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b>3. Prairie Writer's & Illustrator's Day.</b> See my <a href="http://theveryhungryauthor.blogspot.com/2014/11/prairie-writers-illustrators-day-2014.html" target="_blank">post</a> about this writing conference for more details, but to sum it up: great breakout sessions, became re-inspired, worked up the nerve to introduce myself to the members of the panel & received personalized feedback on my work. Win. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b>2. Getting Interest in Response to a Query.</b> Any published or pre-published writer knows: learn to live with rejection. Most people go through hundreds of rejection letters (or sometimes no response at all). So, when I sent an email query to a picture book publisher, I never imagined I'd get an immediate response that they were interested and would get back to me!! Ultimately, they passed, but that almost didn't matter (ok, it mattered). But the important part was that little mini-ego-boost I got from that glimmer of interest. That may keep me going for years!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b>1. Creating My Social Media Presence.</b> Up until 2014, one of the easy things about my budding writing career was that it was optional. What I mean is that most people besides my family, close friends, and critique group didn't even know I wrote children's books. I wasn't really held accountable. So, it was really scary to start this blog and sign on to Twitter. Other people with life goals or New Year's Resolutions know what I'm talking about: once you announce your goal, people are going to ask you about it. It is motivating and intimidating. Now that everyone knows it's my dream to become a published children's book author, I can't just tell them "oh, I don't really feel like it anymore." LAME! And untrue. But the cool thing about announcing my goal is the massive amount of support I've received. I'd like to take this opportunity to give a big THANK YOU to everyone who has asked me about my books, read and/or commented on my blog, and given three cheers for my writing. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> Check back in January for my 2015 Writing Resolutions, Writing Inspiration, and the 100 Best Writing Websites of 2014...</span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13075426993442769723noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2998265968919438528.post-91848148895937114992014-11-16T07:40:00.000-08:002014-12-29T14:32:35.504-08:00Prairie Writer's & Illustrator's Day 2014: The Good, The Bad, & The Ugly<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> Reflecting on Prairie Writer's Day 2014 on the Sunday morning after, I can categorize my main impressions into three groups: The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly. Yesterday's marathon day (8:30am-6:30pm, yes that's why I'm writing this from my bed) included a talented and helpful panel: </span><br />
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<span style="background-color: #fce5cd; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><strong style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center;">Caroline Abbey</strong><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center;"><i>: Senior Editor at Random House</i></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: #fce5cd; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center;"><b>Jordan Brown</b><i>: Senior Editor at Walden Pond Press & Balzer + Bray</i></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: #fce5cd; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center;"><b>Brett Duquette</b><i>: Editor at Sterling Children's Books</i></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: #fce5cd; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center;"><b>Karen Grencik</b><i>: Agent at Red Fox Literary</i></span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: #fce5cd; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><strong style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center;">Esther Hershenhorn</strong><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center;"><i>: Author & Writing Coach (and personal mentor!)</i></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: #fce5cd; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center;"><b>Loraine Joyner</b><i>: Senior Art Director at Peachtree Publishers</i></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: #fce5cd; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center;"><b>Rachel Orr</b><i>: Agent at Prospect Agency</i></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: #fce5cd; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center;"><b>Eliza Wheeler</b><i>: Author/Illustrator & keynote speaker</i></span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: #fce5cd; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><em style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center;"></em><strong style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center;">Noa Wheeler</strong><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center;"><i>: Editor at Henry Holt Books for Young Readers.</i></span><strong style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center;"> </strong></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center;">Phew! That's a mouthful. Or, a keyboard full? Either way, these wonderful people were very generous with their time and wisdom and offered all kinds of tidbits for this conference room full of eager authors. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center;"><b><u>THE GOOD:</u></b></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center;"><b>1.</b> I learned from Jordan Brown the <b>"6 Signs That Your Manuscript Isn't Ready to Submit"</b> and was very happy to note that I could check almost all of them off the list, including <b>"If You Haven't Shared Your Manuscript With a Writing Group, It Isn't Ready to Submit" (check!) and "If Your Main Character Hasn't Done Something to Surprise You, Your Manuscript Isn't Ready to Submit" (check!)</b>. That last one sounds weird, I know, to non-writers or newbie writers. Just a short time ago, I myself was dubious when I'd hear authors exclaim "I couldn't believe she just did that!" I mean, you're the one who wrote it, right? But now that it's happened to me, I get it. Your characters take on a life of their own...you'll be sitting there, happily composing a draft of a chapter, and all of a sudden you realize what your character is about to say or do, and although you know it came out of your own brain, it's almost as if it didn't. It is a COOL feeling. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center;"><b>2.</b> One of the other "6 Ways..." that I need to still do is to <b>read my manuscript out loud.</b> It's obvious to do this when it's a picture book, but for some reason I have yet to do this with my middle grade novel....DUH! The major irony here is that I tell my 4th grade students to do this with their writing at least twice a week. It's a great way to hear flow, catch mistakes, and listen for voice. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center;"><b>3.</b> Eliza Wheeler, whose keynote speech was all about inspiration, suggested <b>making a soundtrack for the piece you are working on and listening to it BEFORE sitting down to write.</b> I've heard of soundtracks for pieces before, but never thought of actually listening before writing as inspiration. In particular, she suggested movie soundtracks as they already have a narrative quality in the background music. Can't wait to try this!</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center;"><b>4.</b> One of the main benefits of attending PWD is that you are <b>allowed to submit work to anyone & everyone on the panel</b> in the months following the conference--even publishing houses that don't normally accept unsolicited submissions. So, that's a bonus I am prepared to take advantage of this year. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center;"><b>5.</b> I achieved my main goal for this year (see previous post <a href="http://theveryhungryauthor.blogspot.com/2014/11/tips-for-attending-writing-conferences.html" target="_blank">Tips for Attending Writing Conferences</a>) and <b>ignored my inner introvert in order to introduce myself to as many people as possible</b>. I ended up passing out about 10 business cards--aren't they cool?--and stayed for the Mix n Mingle to </span></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large; line-height: 36px; text-align: center;">speak to some of the industry panel members I hadn't already spoken to! Go me!</span><br />
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Thanks <a href="https://www.facebook.com/nateazarkdesign" target="_blank">Nate Azark Design</a>!</div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center;"><b>6.</b> This one is both good & bad. Whenever I attend conferences like this, I talk to others & look around the room and am comforted by the fact that <b>there are so many people in the same boat. So many others who are also "pre-published" </b>as I have now come to call myself. But, that thought can be pretty depressing at the same time. Look at all the writers--and only a few can and will be published one day. As one of the panel members noted, "There are millions of great writers in the world. But only a small percentage are actually published." Awesome. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center;"><b><u>THE BAD:</u></b></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center;"><b>1.</b> I didn't win the agent contest (2 winners receive a 30-minute sit-down with an agent about their submission). Let's add this to the Rejection Tally. However, at said Mix n Mingle I approached Rachel Orr and found out that she had read my contest submission. She was able to recite a very good chunk of my synopsis back to me, so I asked if she had any specific feedback for me. She said that although the <b>premise was cool enough that she mentioned it to her husband (!!!!), and although there was voice (!!!!), scenes she loved (!!!!) and a plot twist that sounded cool (!!!!), there were 2 main reasons she didn't pick me for the contest: there is no place in the market right now for alternate society/dystopian.</b> Sad face. Heart sinks. I had a creeping feeling this was the case, what with the inundation of Hunger Games and Divergent, etc., but it's not my fault I hadn't finished my book yet when those came out! No fair! She told me to keep working on it, get it perfect, and then maybe just hang on to it for a while. The other reason she didn't pick my book was more of a personal preference for her: too many futuristic details. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center;"> So, I was very disheartened coming home last night, realizing that my current novel is going to a be hard sell right now. I know, I know, it hasn't been a waste of time, look at all I've learned, maybe there'll be a market for it in a few years, I KNOW! But my heart doesn't care about all those logical things. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center;"><u><b>THE UGLY:</b></u></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center;">1. It took 1 hour and 20 minutes to drive home (what should normally be 35 minutes). Through a snowstorm. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Although I'm leaving you on "The Ugly" note, my overall feeling is a positive one. I have patience, I have tenacity, and I have lots of other ideas for books and an endless supply of chai lattes to get me through it all. As I told my husband last night, "I've dug myself in deep enough on this one that I can't just back out. The only way out is to keep digging." </span></div>
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Hand me that shovel, will you?</div>
</span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13075426993442769723noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2998265968919438528.post-28559475713701425572014-11-01T10:17:00.000-07:002014-12-29T14:33:04.960-08:00Tips for Attending Writing Conferences<br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> Two weeks from today I'll be eagerly attending the 2014 Prairie Writer's Day, the Illinois SCBWI Chapter's annual writing extravaganza. Although this will be my 4th year attending, it is only just now that I finally feel like I "get it." My first year, I signed up and took copious notes and had a mini-heart attack at the thought of how much work was ahead of me. Years 2 and 3, I attended my breakout sessions and listened to the panels, thinking, "Hmm, I already know most of this. Maybe this isn't the best use of my time & money." </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> But now that I finally understand the importance of networking in the publishing industry, now I get it. It's so much more than just sitting & taking notes and absorbing what wisdom I can; it's <i>being there</i>. Meeting people, and being met. Every other person at a writing conference is someone valuable to know. Maybe you're sitting next to an agent or an editor. Maybe you're sitting next to the next best-selling author. Maybe you're sitting next to your future critique partner. No matter who's next to you, it pays to make friends. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> So this year, I intend to throw my introverted-bad-at-small-talk-with-strangers self out the window for a day and do my best at networking. I even have my talented graphic designer hubby working on my business cards to pass out. The "Mix n' Mingle" portion of the day--which I normally skip because it's the last hour of the day and I'm exhausted and have to drive an hour home--is what I look forward to the most (well, and dread a bit too if I'm being honest, due to that "bad at small talk" thing.) </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> In preparing for this year's conference, I've found </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://illinois.scbwi.org/wp-content/blogs.dir/34/files/2014/06/PWD-Confessions-2014.pdf" target="_blank">Esther Hershenhorn's "Confessions and Tips from a Veteran SCBWI Conference-Goer"</a> an extremely helpful resource. It's meant for conference newbies, but I think even veteran conference-goers can benefit from some of these reminders. My favorite tips:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b>- Do your homework ahead of time & know who the presenters are. It will make the day that much more meaningful. </b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b>-Consider your <i>immediate</i> needs when choosing workshop sessions. Sure, we all need to know about dealing with agents or publishers at some point, but if you haven't even finished your manuscript yet then you should focus on that. </b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b>-Divide & Conquer: partner up with a friend (or stranger) and share notes on workshop sessions you didn't attend. Twice the knowledge=always advantageous. </b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b>Click on the above link for Esther's full tips. Again--thanks Esther! </b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Finally, HAPPY BELATED HALLOWEEN from my Ewok dog:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13075426993442769723noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2998265968919438528.post-61932805127875100022014-10-11T11:11:00.002-07:002014-12-29T14:33:28.566-08:00Top 5 Things I Learned from Guide to Literary Agents 2015<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeojV2bi5dcJLSrBCsXV3-kgKcegHvx-Qv_ze5DviQk9aQTuRAsSWhwO-zdWb21m-N2jFCZwebfMgvOSkbY1fAnBjYqNnqKfRUL7renh5DaChGITbSDUNGHvST3h860crhqAI1QpGaCbiv/s1600/GLA+2015.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeojV2bi5dcJLSrBCsXV3-kgKcegHvx-Qv_ze5DviQk9aQTuRAsSWhwO-zdWb21m-N2jFCZwebfMgvOSkbY1fAnBjYqNnqKfRUL7renh5DaChGITbSDUNGHvST3h860crhqAI1QpGaCbiv/s1600/GLA+2015.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> I was so excited when this puppy landed in my mailbox a couple weeks ago and eagerly sat down with my highlighter. Sure, you can (and should) research agents online, using websites like QueryTracker, Literary Rambles, and many others (see <a href="http://theveryhungryauthor.blogspot.com/p/links-to-helpful-blogs-other-webby-stuff.html" target="_blank">Links to Helpful Blogs and Other Webby Stuff</a>). But this book is a handy all-in-one-spot information goldmine on all literary agents, children's and otherwise. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> It also has several helpful articles about all things "books": writing, revising, querying, assessing agents, you name it. Here, I'll list the top 5 things I learned from this awesome guide (besides, of course, everything about potential agents)!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b>5.</b> "<i>Think of your query as the first and most important page of your manuscript"</i> (p. 76). I don't think I really realized how important a well-written query is until recently. It matters! Many agents don't even make it past your query letter, so no matter how awesome your manuscript is, your query has to be just as good, if not better. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b>4.</b> Read, read, read! I already knew this one, but it never hurts to be reminded. Become an expert in your genre. Specifically, "<i>know what's already out there, and make sure your novel stands apart"</i> (p. 56)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b>3</b>. Don't query every agent you love at first. Start with no more than ten, and if you receive 0-1 requests for more, you know your query has a problem. Get feedback from critique partners or online forums, rewrite your query, and try another round of queries. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b>2.</b> In the chapter entitled "8 Ways to Write a Great Chapter One": End the first chapter with some closure. <i>"Because it is Chapter One, your readers will trust that the closure will turn out to be deliciously false."</i> (p. 65). This is a good one for me, because I am a HUGE fan of cliffhangers at the end of chapters. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b>1.</b> A wonderful tool for honing your writing craft: Find a book or author you admire, perhaps one that's in the same genre as your WIP (work-in-progress), and type a passage/chapter yourself, word for word. Doing this helps unlock the mysteries of well-written literature (p. 89). I can't wait to sit down and try this with Lois Lowry's <i>The Giver</i>, my all-time favorite children's middle grade book!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Thanks to editor <a href="http://www.chucksambuchino.com/" target="_blank">Chuck Sambuchino</a> and all the contributors of <a href="http://www.writersdigest.com/editor-blogs/guide-to-literary-agents/the-2015-guide-to-literary-agents-is-out-here-are-47-reasons-to-buy-it-and-a-giveaway-contest" target="_blank">The Guide to Literary Agents 2015</a>!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Have you read it too? Share something new you learned by leaving a comment!</span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13075426993442769723noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2998265968919438528.post-30407352994423685462014-09-27T06:59:00.000-07:002014-12-29T14:34:04.046-08:00Hats Off to: Jessica Lawson (and BOOK GIVEAWAY!)<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Let me tell you who Jessica Lawson is, not necessarily in
order of importance:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b>1.</b> Jessica Lawson is my very oldest friend. We grew up in
houses that weren’t on the same street but were connected by a little sidewalk
alley between our blocks, where in the springtime, Lily of the Valley grew
abundantly, dubbed “Lily of the Alley” by my mother. Our moms were friends and
we went to the same neighborhood daycare, and were thick as thieves through
kindergarten. I have distinct memories of playing with a creepy Miss Piggy puppet in
her basement, trick-or-treating each Halloween, and attending her hobo-themed
birthday party (apologies to any homeless people. In talking we realized that we both seem to remember this party vividly, yet when trying to justify how fun it was to have plastic cigars as party favors for 6-year-old girls, it loses quite a bit of its charm and acceptable-ness. Apparently the hobo-themed birthday party was a strange phenomenon of the 80's. Through this dialogue I also learned that Jessica is an expert on the subtleties between hobos, tramps, & bums, if you're interested). </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs1zMdqeabBB5HGTEDJji5dxpOtsX4An7E5GXoYH6cwjCR5rhJqkuxfTILJl1T39qqPle518fwCe0nM0hBmfKLNfM-ubmpW7NsnOLEq0W1Vtqvi9rHjYCHkvnpV0aR9qaiS90ZpPsGv8Sk/s1600/scan0002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs1zMdqeabBB5HGTEDJji5dxpOtsX4An7E5GXoYH6cwjCR5rhJqkuxfTILJl1T39qqPle518fwCe0nM0hBmfKLNfM-ubmpW7NsnOLEq0W1Vtqvi9rHjYCHkvnpV0aR9qaiS90ZpPsGv8Sk/s1600/scan0002.jpg" height="253" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Don't I make a decent hobo? I mean, that hat. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">When we were starting first grade, my family
moved across town, placing me in a different school, and we gradually grew
apart. I can’t remember the year but sometime before middle school, her family
moved to Indiana, distancing us even further. But our friendship fought on! We
were penpals for years (another lost phenomenon of the 80's and prior, thanks to the digital age), and we decided to go
to the same sleepaway camp the summer before 8<sup>th</sup> grade. From there,
high school and college busied us, and we lost touch. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Until
Facebook. I found Jessica in a kindergarten picture someone had tagged us both
in, and contacted her, only to learn that….</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b>2.</b> Jessica Lawson is a children’s book author! Imagine my
delight at not only finding my long-lost first best friend EVER, but in also
discovering that she writes (and publishes!) children’s books. I was dumbfounded. Ever since finding each other, we have been emailing
and catching up, and she has been instrumental in not only giving helpful hints
about the publishing industry, but also in my own motivation to write. I
couldn't wait to read her debut middle grade novel, <i>The Actual and
Truthful Adventures of Becky Thatcher</i>, when it came out this summer, and am super excited to share it with my students and hopefully set up some sort of author-Skype session. And she
has another book on the way—all of this while raising two stepchildren and two
small little girls. Not sure how she does it, but she is inspiring. Visit her
author website here: <a href="http://jessicalawsonbooks.com/">http://jessicalawsonbooks.com/</a>,
and her blog here: <a href="http://fallingleaflets.blogspot.com/">fallingleaflets.blogspot.com</a>. Aspiring authors, Jessica’s
blog is filled with very helpful links about the writing craft, querying,
agents….you name it! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b>3.</b> Jessica Lawson is someone who is generous with her time and was kind enough to answer some interview questions for my blog:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Q: How did your writing career begin?</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">A: The reason I started writing with the intention of one day
getting published was because of my children. When I had my first child, I had
some extra time at home. I took up writing and queried my first novel back in
fall of 2009. I soon realized how much I loved the process (“People in New York
City are reading my query letter and pages! Sure, they’re rejecting my stuff,
but they’re reading it! How cool is that???”) and became engrossed in learning
about writing craft and trying my best to improve. My first publication credit
was in Stories for Children, an
online kids’ magazine. That was years ago. I got a check for five dollars for
my alliterative story “A Pickle for Patty.” I still have that check—I never
cashed it because I didn’t want to give it to the bank and lose that precious
piece of paper that had the words “stories for children” and my name printed on
it. I figured that could be my career right there, so I kept it. </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">(I love that story)</span></span></i></div>
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<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Q: How many times was your work
rejected before you got published? Any good rejection stories?</span></span></span><br />
<i style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">A: Oh, there
were lots of rejections and I’m sure there will be plenty more (going on
submission with publishers with new books can make you feel like you’re querying
all over again). I received hundreds and hundreds of rejections and it took
three years before I got an agent in fall of 2012. I wrote eight novel
manuscripts, a few picture books, several articles, and sent a bunch of
children’s magazine submissions before I wrote The Actual & Truthful Adventures of Becky Thatcher. Then it was
3-4 months before we went on submission and another 8 weeks or so before an
offer came in.</span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><span style="color: black;"><i>No real
good rejection stories. Rejections eventually turned into requests, then I got
more rejections, then personalized rejections, more requests, R&Rs (revise
and resubmit), etc. I think there was one time I got query rejection after
nearly a year and I was like, “Well, this one doesn’t hurt a bit since I’m
already querying my next novel and working on another one.”</i> <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large; font-weight: bold;"><br /></span></div>
<b></b><br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Q: How did you get the idea for Becky Thatcher?</span><br />
<i style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">A: I was dusting my bookshelves one day and Mark Twain’s The Adventures of Tom Sawyer caught my
eye. I started thinking about the characters and how, as a young girl, I wanted
to be like Tom and Huck, running around and finding adventures. Becky Thatcher
was a character that I didn’t relate to as much, and I found myself wondering
if maybe there was a way to play around with the story and let her get into
mischief as well. My version of Becky had an older brother, Jon, who she
admired above all others and is grieving when the story opens; that character
was inspired by my own brother-in-law.</span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large; font-weight: bold;"><br /></span></div>
<b></b><br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Q: What is your favorite scene or sentence from the book?</span><br />
<i style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color: black; font-size: large;">A: I like it
when Becky Thatcher tells Tom Sawyer that he’s got to spit more if he wants
friends. Not something I would tell my own daughter, but it was fun to write </span></i></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Q: What are you
working on now?</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">A: Right now I’m waiting
to go over the first pass pages of Nooks
& Crannies, a middle grade story set in the Lake District of England in
1906. It was pitched as “Charlie and the
Chocolate Factory meets Clue” and
will be published next summer. I’m also working on a manuscript called Waiting for Augusta. It’s about an
11-year-old runaway who travels from Alabama to Georgia in an attempt to make
peace with his dead father. It’s scheduled to be published summer of 2016.</span></i></div>
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<span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i><br /></i></span></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-right: 6pt; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Q: What books are on your
nightstand right now?</span></span></span><br />
<i style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">A: Lots. Let
me go see. Okay: Christopher Paul Curtis’s<b> </b>Elijah of Buxton, Donna Gephart’s Death By Toilet Paper, Anne Ursu’s The Real Boy, Arnold Lobel’s Fables,
Ally Carter’s Heist Society, Mark
Twain’s The Prince and the Pauper, Karen
Foxlee’s Ophelia and the Marvelous Boy, Roald
Dahl’s Danny, The Champion of the World,
Hans Brinker, Ann Patchett’s This is the Story of a Happy Marriage,
Varian Johnson’s The Great Greene Heist,
and ARCs of Stuart Gibbs’ Evil Spy School,
Robin Stevens’s Murder is Bad Manners,
and Heather Vogel Frederick’s Absolutely
Truly. Some are books that I’m reading for the first time, some are ones
that I’m re-reading for pleasure or to see how the author worked a certain
piece of his/her writing craft/magic, and some are just comfort books that I
like to have near me.</span></i></div>
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<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Q: What's one piece of advice for
aspiring authors?</span></span></span><br />
<i style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">A: Try not to give up on the road to getting published~ think of it
as a quest. A quest is exciting! A quest has challenges! A quest has triumphs
to celebrate~ big ones and smaller ones! A quest is both a deeply personal
journey and one that requires teamwork along the way! A quest has places where
you might give up, but don’t! It’s okay to get disheartened, but please,
please, please use the resources you can find, both internally and externally
to keep going.</span></i></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i><span style="color: windowtext; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Thanks so
much </span><span style="color: windowtext;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">for having
me on your blog! I’m so glad that we’ve found each other again after all these
years! </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">(Me too!)</span></span></i></span><span style="color: windowtext; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<o:p><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b style="font-size: x-large;">4.</b><span style="font-size: large;"> Finally, Jessica is generously offering a </span><span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>book giveaway of <i>The Actual and Truthful Adventures of Becky Thatcher</i></b> </span></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">to a randomly selected person! All you have to do is leave a comment below (by midnight central time on Friday, October 10). Trust me, you want to read this book if you love a main character with a strong and funny voice (and really, who doesn't?), if you are a Tom Sawyer/Huck Finn fan, or if you enjoy an adventurous, troublemaker, female protagonist. <span style="color: red;"><b>UPDATE: The winner is Kathy! Congratulations! Shoot me an email (use "Contact Nicole" in the left sidebar) and we'll deliver your brand-new book!</b></span></span></o:p><br />
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<o:p><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">THANKS, JESSICA! </span></o:p></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13075426993442769723noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2998265968919438528.post-18770716417486348702014-09-14T16:15:00.000-07:002014-12-29T14:34:27.578-08:00It Takes a Village...of Writers<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcN6asWnEjTXGLr_Q0EgoSqo5Hqd2HBahJznjNbOzX3yslWjAM_uw7IM3-YKpPwcc1OYzGDjWStlgjGSBwIShtkgoDOkCXfArI2NnInf86QIxE6bAzGviop-00qzLUys6eopnX_gBfXztc/s1600/images.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcN6asWnEjTXGLr_Q0EgoSqo5Hqd2HBahJznjNbOzX3yslWjAM_uw7IM3-YKpPwcc1OYzGDjWStlgjGSBwIShtkgoDOkCXfArI2NnInf86QIxE6bAzGviop-00qzLUys6eopnX_gBfXztc/s1600/images.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">In the language arts curriculum materials
in my 4<sup>th</sup> grade classroom, one of the units is called “The Writing
Community.” It encourages kids to discuss, share, peer edit…you get the idea. I
teach it, but never thought much about how it applies to me as a writer. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Many writers think of themselves as loners. Islands. After all, books are published by individuals, not groups. Right? </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large; text-indent: 0.5in;">Wrong. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> I used to think like that too. </span>Taking my first official children’s book
writing class, I was super worried and dubious about having to share my writing. How were these people going to help me?Wasn’t everyone going to steal my original and amazing ideas? On top of that, how would I handle the harsh
criticisms my classmates and teacher were sure to dole out? </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> With each classmate offering praise and helpful suggestions for my book, the lightbulb over my head grew brighter. I had my "AHA moment." The writing community is actually amazingly supportive! Fellow writers don't steal your ideas, they encourage you! Writers work together, helping others get published, because they all know just how rough it is. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">If you don't believe me, take the book you're currently reading and flip to the "Acknowledgements" section. Count how many people the author thanks for helping them publish their book...usually the count is pretty high (i.e. more than just their spouse, kids, and pets). </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I am amazed how I'm continually learning this lesson. Most recently, I joined Twitter and discovered a whole tweeting community of writers. Within a month of joining I received awesome feedback on my query letter and first chapter of my middle grade novel--just because people volunteered to help me. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I am indebted to the writing community and hope that my small contributions make up for the wealth of help & support I've received from others. </span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13075426993442769723noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2998265968919438528.post-83703231488547530142014-09-06T06:35:00.000-07:002015-03-07T19:16:40.705-08:00On Rejection<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTbia43D9KwtP9cF6ZrgLq8kgs2A4IUhiT2Z8nWtLO5AjtnsIqMNlusDi1X4gRE29gr_8URfgaaZoSsogGuyeDQlP5hRZkIG4F-a_4LTtqDYoYm2mGzVcbAdwwCcLSFOcpa_C_GeUYXhUm/s1600/images-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTbia43D9KwtP9cF6ZrgLq8kgs2A4IUhiT2Z8nWtLO5AjtnsIqMNlusDi1X4gRE29gr_8URfgaaZoSsogGuyeDQlP5hRZkIG4F-a_4LTtqDYoYm2mGzVcbAdwwCcLSFOcpa_C_GeUYXhUm/s1600/images-2.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> To borrow from Thomas Edison, "I have not failed. I've just found 10,000 ways that won't work." Ok, so I'm still a few thousand away from his mark, but I have found many ways NOT to publish a book. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> Rejection sucks, let's be honest. But the silver lining is that in most cases, to be rejected at all, you have to have put yourself out there in one way or another. Dumped by a boyfriend? Well, you made yourself vulnerable and gave it a shot. Turned down by your first college pick? At least you applied! Didn't win a writing contest or got yet another rejection letter? Hey, good for you for writing a book and putting it out into the world for others to judge!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> I'll never forget one of my first rejections I received. I'd sent a picture book to a publisher that was accepting open submissions and looking for exactly what I had. I couldn't contain my excitement when I got an immediate email response that they were going to "kick it around for a while." Kick all you want! Months later, I got a very simply stated rejection email: "Sorry, turns out it's not going to work for us after all." Booooo! That night, I happened to attend a writing workshop with my local SCBWI network. As part of my introduction, I told them about the rejection letter earlier that day. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> They all clapped. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> I've never felt better about a rejection. They reminded me how awesome it was that not only had I written a book and flung it out into the publishing world, but I had gotten interest. Maybe not a bite, but at least a little nibble. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> Still, it never hurts to be reminded that even my favorite authors get rejection letters...</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinZ0tfPbL9lD9fSnTRzvMMz6nox6n4BRoaiEd1roKS_jVnzhH2RP8K7nwOvsi6kZRwUgIQSjqw7Wtx6hNyurtuox82IgC7wPODfLR-LnB5Cjm2HrO6U2Gl8o80Jk5kJniZXGv7j9owLpU_/s1600/imgres.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinZ0tfPbL9lD9fSnTRzvMMz6nox6n4BRoaiEd1roKS_jVnzhH2RP8K7nwOvsi6kZRwUgIQSjqw7Wtx6hNyurtuox82IgC7wPODfLR-LnB5Cjm2HrO6U2Gl8o80Jk5kJniZXGv7j9owLpU_/s1600/imgres.jpg" height="257" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> Do you have an awful, funny, or great rejection story? I'd love to hear it! Please post it in a comment below. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> I, at the very least, will applaud you. </span></div>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13075426993442769723noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2998265968919438528.post-61248311124530852732014-08-30T08:36:00.000-07:002014-12-29T14:35:14.418-08:00Pardon Me While I Teach<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiVMgvjNOsZVUFPwiE-dHZDn7PedWSxVvWuLkkjTKRiacXj1CuIWh_ZgpJaP19s1YYZAeugwaakBBFOVQ98NpShmYENIPHk5gHN1tl6tU-IEuYtuZBSkyspa3ecZuFafWQdffCV327NcTE/s1600/imgres-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiVMgvjNOsZVUFPwiE-dHZDn7PedWSxVvWuLkkjTKRiacXj1CuIWh_ZgpJaP19s1YYZAeugwaakBBFOVQ98NpShmYENIPHk5gHN1tl6tU-IEuYtuZBSkyspa3ecZuFafWQdffCV327NcTE/s1600/imgres-1.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Late August/early September...one of the busiest times in a teacher's life. A whole new batch of kids to learn their names, their quirks, their strengths & weaknesses, and the things you can use to connect to them. On top of that, the administrative duties that happen only at the beginning of the year: getting all their computer passwords set up, making sure you have enough social studies textbooks, making nametags, labeling supplies. And then there is the "training" of the kids, getting them used to your personal routines, your schedule, your preferences for where & when they turn in homework, when they can go to the bathroom, and just how much misbehavior you'll put up with (answer: none, unless they do something that truly makes me laugh). Oh--and the most important part, yet the part that ends up the afterthought to all that: teaching. Lesson plans to get the actual curriculum rolling as soon as possible because you know that come June you'll be running out of days to squeeze it all in. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">This is where I am now, one week in. A successful week so far, if you don't count the power outage and fire alarm on the first day! But, it is busy, and it is exhausting. My writing immediately took a backseat to the start of the school year. It's as it should be, seeing as I get a paycheck for teaching and writing has provided no income yet, but it is also disappointing since I had such great momentum over the summer. It just means I have to make writing a priority in my free time (like now, sitting on the couch of my in-laws' Michigan lake house listening to the waves). </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">If there are any teachers out there who think writing will be a great "summer activity," think again. It's a full-time job. Sure, the summer is a great time to get big chunks of writing or research done, but if you ever want to get anywhere, not to mention if it's something you're truly passionate about, you're not going to be able to leave it alone September through June. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">So, if there are any Pitch Wars mentors reading this, fear not: If I am chosen it will be the biggest thing to happen in my writing career and I will treat it as such. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Besides, I'm sure my in-laws will be happy to lend me some space at their lake house so I can write.</span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13075426993442769723noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2998265968919438528.post-38281160538163239332014-08-18T08:58:00.001-07:002014-08-18T09:59:41.680-07:00Pitch Wars Is Here!<div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 24px;">I am super super excited that for the first time ever I have entered Pitch Wars! If you are unfamiliar, check out what it is <a href="http://www.brenda-drake.com/2014/08/surprise-pitch-wars-submission-window-now-open/" target="_blank">here</a>. In short, it's an amazing opportunity for aspiring authors (ahem, moi) to not only get feedback on a finished manuscript from an experienced and, from what I can tell, lovely and fun mentor, but also to improve their writing and their chances at getting seen/snagged by an agent! I really hope I get picked by one of the mentors I've applied to, but even if I don't I've already learned a lot, improved my manuscript & query letter, and made connections with tons of great writing people! So, win-win.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="line-height: 24px;"><span style="font-size: large;">And now, although it lacks GIFs, my </span><span style="color: #e69138; font-size: x-large;">Pitch Wars Mentee Bio</span><span style="font-size: large;">. In other words, here's who I am and why you, my potential mentors, might like working with me. I love lists, so here is Nicole in a list, in no particular order:</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="line-height: 24px;">1. I am a child at heart, truly. Sometimes my husband calls me "childish" but I prefer "child-like." You know, tomato/tomato...hmm, that doesn't work as well in type. One example:</span></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 24px;"> I love all things Disney. I seriously cannot get enough of Disneyworld. It brings tears to my eyes just thinking about it.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 24px;">2. My favorite holiday is Halloween. Candy + costumes + spooky stuff = perfect!</span></span></div>
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Minions (i.e.The 4th Grade Team)</div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 24px;">3. I have a MAJOR sweet tooth. Which also means I love baking cookies, pies, cakes (I make a mean chocolate souffle), and I've tried dipping pretty much everything in chocolate. Oh--and Nutella is the nectar of the gods. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 24px;">4. To make up for the sweet tooth, being active is a big part of my life. I'm a runner (2 marathons, 6 halfies, 2 triathlons, and a smattering of smaller races) and I love to dance. </span></span></div>
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See how I combine my favorite things? </div>
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That's me, dressed as Belle, running a halfie at Disneyworld.</div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 24px;">5. My favorite season is fall. I'm a teacher, so back-to-school time is always fun. I think fall has the best smells: fresh school supplies being unpacked on the 1st day of school; apple cider donuts; pumpkin bread/pie/ice cream/anything; cozy fires. Mmmmm!</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 24px;">6. Travel is a priority. I absolutely love seeing other corners of the world and experiencing different cultures. My husband and I travelled Italy for two weeks this summer and it was the trip of a lifetime (and you better believe I had gelato every single day!) Still on the list: Thailand, Alaska, Machu Picchu, more Europe, African Safari...</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 24px;">7. At any given time you can find at least one children's book and one adult book on my nightstand. I love transporting myself to other worlds through reading. I also co-founded my lovely book club. Favorite middle grade book: <i>The Giver</i> (still debating if I'll see the movie). Favorite adult book: <i>The Time Traveller's Wife </i>(definitely <i>not</i> seeing the movie). </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 24px;">8. Speaking of clubs, I'm also a member of a critique group that meets monthly. As a picture book and middle grade writer, I love that our group has every children's category represented. This group of talented women is largely responsible for improving my writing. Thanks ladies!</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 24px;">9. I am 100% type-A: organized, early for everything, a little neurotic, perfectionist. It makes me a bit stressed out from time to time, but also makes me a hard worker and go-getter. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 24px;">10. Which means I usually have time for an afternoon nap.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 24px;">I hope that helped you to "know" me a little better. All in all, my goal with Pitch Wars is to learn, improve my writing, and meet new people in the writing world. Like I said, I already feel like those things have happened. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="line-height: 24px;">But, if I am chosen by one of my mentors, I will be doing a LOT of jumping up and down, screaming, and dancing with my dog while he looks at me like I'</span></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 24px;">m crazy. </span></span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13075426993442769723noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2998265968919438528.post-60971287697452707842014-08-04T07:52:00.002-07:002014-08-04T09:08:26.623-07:00Hats Off to: Esther Hershenhorn<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe4Jf3q_9tnov4QTfRb_4DT6KgR5AyLeO8o7om_i77cysElul9vUWltgvk3CKPt5gpnxAgC1CWG2g4uKlSOKFTOEulhFOv8PIOVTWranVGTTr6RzSiIqKIXGjDtBbBC4M9bik9SH3ndi41/s1600/imgres.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe4Jf3q_9tnov4QTfRb_4DT6KgR5AyLeO8o7om_i77cysElul9vUWltgvk3CKPt5gpnxAgC1CWG2g4uKlSOKFTOEulhFOv8PIOVTWranVGTTr6RzSiIqKIXGjDtBbBC4M9bik9SH3ndi41/s1600/imgres.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> Without Esther Hershenhorn, I wouldn't be where I am today in the world of publishing children's books. "And exactly where are you?" you're probably asking. You're right, I haven't actually published anything. Yet. But publishing children's books is quite a journey, and with Esther's help I now have my bags packed with all the right gear, a reliable road map, a tank full of gas, and several trusty and loyal travel-buddies.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"> In the summer of 2010 I enrolled in a children's book writing course. Driving there the first night, I was surprised to find the address was residential, and even more surprised to find that the class was held in the coach-house apartment of the "instructor," who had me sit on her couch, pulling her toddler daughter's squeaky toys out from under my bum, while she told me various topics to write about and watched me write in silence. Creepy, right? And yes, I was the only student, though the instructor assured me my classmates were "sick" or "out of town this week." That was NOT Esther's course.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> Flash forward to the following summer. Undeterred by the seeming scam of my previous course, I signed up for Esther Hershenhorn's children's book writing workshop at the Newberry Library--much more reliable. (If you are a fellow Chicagoan, check out their fabulous writing workshops <a href="http://www.newberry.org/writing-workshops" target="_blank">here</a>.) Week by week, the clouds of ignorance parted and the warming rays of Esther's knowledge shone down, shedding light on the world of children's books. It was much more than just a writing workshop. All the students submitted works ranging from picture book to YA, and we critiqued and encouraged each other. But more importantly, Esther gently guided us into this new world, emphasizing the importance of networking and the writing community. I'd always thought of writing as an independent thing; a solo endeavor. Esther quickly turned my thinking upside-down, and by the time I finished her course I was a member of both SCBWI and a critique group...and I've never looked back. Before Esther, I had no idea how much I didn't know about writing and publishing children's books. But using the momentum she gave me, I now know what people are talking about when I attend conferences. I know what PB, MG, and YA stand for. I know what querying is, what typical word counts are, and the usual amount of rejection letters before publication (hovering in the hundreds). </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"> As a result of Esther's course, I now meet monthly with a talented, knowledgeable, and ever-expanding group of writers who have helped shape me as an author, as well as my works themselves. And like our mama bear, Esther still checks in on us from time to time and is a constant supporter of our writing. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> If you'd like a little bit of this Esther-y goodness in your life, you're in luck! Come to <a href="https://www.regonline.com/builder/site/Default.aspx?EventID=1568390" target="_blank">Prairie Writer's Day 2014</a>, where she is on the panel. Get tips on her blog, <a href="http://www.teachingauthors.com/" target="_blank">Teaching Authors.</a> Hire her as a one-on-one writing coach, or find a class she is teaching, by visiting her <a href="http://www.estherhershenhorn.com/home.html" target="_blank">website. </a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Thanks again, Esther!</span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13075426993442769723noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2998265968919438528.post-70718090494472479582014-07-30T08:13:00.002-07:002014-07-30T14:44:32.639-07:00welcome<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I first welcome myself to the ability to
add “blogging” to my to-do list. I welcome you, my reader, to my blog, and to
my dream. Well, that sounds creepy…you’re not really in my dream. Ever since I
was about 9, I’ve had the dream of becoming a published author, among many
other things. The author part is easy. I love writing and always have. I’ve written
journals, poems, stories, books, letters, and far too many lists over the
years. In fact, I’m a little surprised it’s taken me this long to start a blog.
What better forum for writing and sharing my every thought and whim than a
blog? </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Now, the publishing part is much more difficult. Much. More.
Difficult. I think I’ve known my whole life that the publishing part would be
hard, and maybe that’s why it’s taken me this long to really attempt it. But
I’m a go-getter, not a sit-around-and-think-about-all-the-things-I-want-to-accomplish-er.
In my early twenties when I decided it was a life goal of mine to run a
marathon, I signed up. Without ever having trained for a single competitive
race in my life. And I did it—and still do. So I’ve applied the same strategy
to my writing. If I want to publish a book in my lifetime, I’d better get
going. I’ve been writing “seriously” for 4 years, taking classes, attending
seminars, joining SCBWI, and participating in critique groups. I’m taking
advantage of every opportunity I can get my hands on, or trying to. I figure
that’s the best way to succeed, and even if I don’t get published, at least I
can say I tried everything I could. And I can say I had fun…because it has been
lots of fun and quite an adventure already! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Which makes me just like the Very Hungry Caterpillar (a
favorite children’s book of mine, and the gift I always give to brand-new
babies, because every child should have this book in their life and enjoy poking their fingers through the holes in the pages). I am the Very
Hungry Author…eating everything I can get my hands on, taking it all in, with
the hopes of emerging as a beautiful butterfly, ahem, published author,
someday. </span></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">If you came here looking for a food blog you’re in the wrong
place. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13075426993442769723noreply@blogger.com10