The Answer is Yes

 

"Need to get away? Would you like to spend a few days at a prayer-soaked, Spirit-infused Christian conference center? Make a special and powerful connection with God there? Get refreshed, rejuvenated, and recharged? Fill your tank so you can pour out in all the other things you do? Build relationships with people who understand you and want to encourage you, support you, and pray for you? Listen for the Holy Spirit’s guidance and direction on your writing and your life? Make some divine connections? Maybe carve out some uninterrupted writing time in a beautiful, inspiring setting?"

Hoenstly they had me at "need to get away?". Link here for more information: 

Christian Writers Retreats

The ABCs of PB, CB, MG, and YA

 

I can't say it any better than Emma Hamilton. So I'l let her do it. "One of the most important things a children’s book writer can do—besides writing a strong story—is to understand who you’re writing for. The world of children’s literature is wonderfully wide-ranging, but that means it comes with its fair share of industry shorthand and nuance. Terms like PB, CB, MG, and YA are used constantly in publishing conversations, and if you’re unsure what they mean, it can feel like you’re on the outside looking in." For more, click below: 

Understanding the Children’s Book Market: Age Categories and Genres

Union Square Kids

 I am biased (waves eagerly at her editor), but I think Union Square Kids makes some of the BEST picture books. Here is the description from their website: "Union Square Kids publishes fiction and nonfiction titles that surprise young readers with unexpected stories, inventive formats, and unique perspectives. Quality and quirk are at the heart of our books—from literary award winners to broad-reaching commercial hits. Our books aim to entertain and excite kids and teens through humor, discovery, and thought-provoking reading experiences."

Want to know more? Check out this link: 

Union Square Kids

2025 Summer Picture Book List

 

The 2025 100 Picture Book List

It's Gonna Be May

 

If you get the reference, we may be the same age. If not, that's ok. Either way, look at this fabulous May book list for some wonderful writer inspo from Writers' Rumpus!

BOOK LIST

FREE (my favorite word) WRITING TOOLS

 

A common theme is my critiques is for author sto show, not tell the reader what is happening. This concept can be hard to explain, so I'm sharing a marvelous resource from the good folks at Writers Helping Writers. Click below if you've heard that suggestion before (I know I have!):

Show Don't Tell

Ready for Reviewers?

 

Click on over to this list of bloggers and podcasters that review childrens books. 

Kidlit Bloggers and Podcasts Who Do Reviews