soexcitedsoexcitedsoexcited

 

I adore attending writer events and was heartbroken when my SCBWI region stopped having their annual in person meeting, but I'm sad no more! I cannot wait to listen and learn and meet and write and edit and do all the things at my first ever FCWC. I always come out of events super inspired and refueled, whether I'm a panelist or a participant. And ya'll know I'm gonna post here about hwo it goes - so stay tuned! 

Author Visits - Expert Advice (plus my own two cents)

 As explained on Annette Whipple's website: 

"So you're an author with a book about to be published or maybe you're already published. Congratulations! One fabulous way to connect with more readers is through school visits (also known as author visits). If you're interested in providing author visits to schools, you need to know this is an important service. It's not just a storytime or a reading. Instead, it is an opportunity for you, the author, to engage with readers in a way that supports the school curriculum while showcasing who you are and your books. You'll likely sell a few books along the way. And honestly, author visits are a big part of many kidlit author's income."

 

For more fabulous information on school visits, check out Annette’s website at:

https://www.annettewhipple.com/2023/10/7-steps-to-get-started-with-author.html

And now for my two cents...

(1) always ask where to park and what ID / background checks you may need ahead of time

and

(2) require a school staff member to stay in the room during the presentaion (#becauseliability) and remidn folks that while photos are welcome, full video / audio recordings are a no-no because of potential copyright issues

Schiffer Kids

 

According to their website: "Schiffer Kids is the children's book imprint of Schiffer Publishing. We're helping to build the knowledge base for SEL and STEAM-inspired learning through award-winning content that promotes critical thinking, opens up conversations, and inspires young minds....Schiffer Publishing, Ltd. (Atglen, PA) is a family-owned publisher with more than 5,700 titles in print and a broad catalog of books, including non-fiction books on art, decorative arts, architecture, design, antiques, military history, maritime subjects, photography, fashion, house and garden, food, history, crafts, woodworking, regional topics, and more" 

For proposal submissions, click here: 
Schiffer Kids

A Writer's Dream

 

Years ago I attended a writng workshop with Boyds Mills and I would love (love) to go back. They sell out quickly but do still have spaces available for a picture book retreat this September. If you go, you will NOT regret it. Great instruction, tons of quiet writing time, cute accomodations, and yummy food. Here is the link: 

In Person Writing Retreat

And if a trip to Pennsylvania is a no-go, consider their wonderful online courses. They have another picture book class with the same staff mid August, linked here: 

Online Writing Class

The Cool Kids Club

Want to join a really cool club? Okay, fine. A really cool professional association? Check out SCBWI - membership offers access to development events, marketing opportunities, networking with industry professionals, and resources for writers and illustrators. Members also benefit from exclusive discounts, awards, and grants - so, yea, it's pretty awesome. 

SCWBI link

NEWCOVERNEWCOVERNEWCOVERIMSOEXCITEDNEWCOVERSOHAPPYNEWCOVERNEWCOVER

 

I am not 100% sure if I can *officially* share the cover of my latest picture book, ALL THE WAVES I LOVE YOU, but I just received the file in my inbox, so I simply must give you a sneaky peek (because #patienceofatoddler). But ... you guys ... it is SO good. And all the credit goes to the talented illustrator Bhagya Madanasinghe and the entire fabulous team at Charlesbridge Publishing.

Public Service Announcement

 

Deadlines are coming up for many book awards, inclduing those from CHLA. Click below for more information: 

CHLA Awards & Grants