Let's Talk Goals (Specifically Author Goals)

 

It was always my dream to traditionally publish ten picture books. Why ten? I don't know. Doesn't matter (but maybe because I am Type A and like round numbers). Well guess what? I DID IT! My first book came out in 2015. My latest book came out in 2025. That's ten books in ten years. 

And guess what else, I wanna do MORE. And guess what else AGAIN? You can achieve your author goals TOO, you just have to set some. So take this as your sign to dream up a concrete writing-related goal, and then get after it. 

A Writer's Prayer

 

Dear God above, I pray today

for guidance on just what to say.

Help me write something true, 

with words that bring hearts to you. 

                                               Amen.

Wander, Ponder, Write

 

This author's blog is chock full of great tips and good book recommendations, complete with notes on craft. Love it. 

Worth the follow! 

Patricia Nozell Blog

I AM SKEPTICAL

 

The article is titled HOW TO WRITE A PICTURE BOOK IN 18 STEPS. I clearly did not write this article as it takes me about 2,184 steps to write a picture book, many of which are backwards. But take a look and tell me what you think. Personally I think it's a good start, but oh my goodness there is so much more to it than this. 

18 Steps

Picture Book Month 2025

 

It's picture book month so I had to share a fabulous new find, THE ULTIMATE BOOK OF THE HUMAN BODY. I mean, who doesn't love a little nonfiction, right? Learn more here:

Picture Book Month Book

Cutest Publisher EVER

Dream #10,824 of mine is to publish a board book (better yet - a serie sof board books), so obviosuly I have to talk about Cottage Door Press. 

Their website says it best "Cottage Door Press was founded with a simple yet profound mission: to create connection and spark imagination through the magic of storytelling. From our earliest days, we became a beloved name in children’s publishing, capturing the hearts of young readers and their families with enchanting characters, vibrant illustrations, and engaging, multi-sensory formats. With best-selling series like Peek-a-Flap, and innovations such as the Luna StoryTime Projector, we have worked to transform story time into an extraordinary journey where learning and wonder come alive. Our dedication to nurturing early childhood development through imaginative storytelling has earned us a trusted spot on family bookshelves around the world... At Cottage Door Press, we believe in the power of stories to unite generations and ignite imaginations. From toddlers delighting in their first words to adults exploring new activities, we remain dedicated to enriching lives, one story—or activity—at a time."

Cottage Door Press 

Faith, Musicality & Picture Books

 

Check out Tonnye Fletcher, the beautiful mind and soul behind PBJamz - a blog about picture books with musical hooks. It is SO good. 

Tonnye Fletcher Blog