Shannon and The Sunshine Band

The Sydney Taylor Award Blog Tour Is Coming Up!

2012-01-26T14:04:00.000-08:00

The blog tour starts on February 5th and the schedule is below. I'll be hosting Gloria Spielman, author of MARCEL MARCEAU MASTER OF MIME on February 10th!

The Sydney Taylor Book Award will be celebrating and showcasing its 2012 gold and silver medalists and a few selected Notables with a Blog Tour, February 5-10, 2012! Interviews with winning authors and illustrators will appear on a wide variety of Jewish and kidlit blogs. For those of you who have not yet experienced a Blog Tour, it's basically a virtual book tour. Instead of going to a library or bookstore to see an author or illustrator speak, you go to a website on or after the advertised date to read an author’s or illustrator's interview.

Later this spring, we'll follow up with an episode of Katie Davis's Brain Burps About Books devoted to the Sydney Taylor Book Award!

Below is the schedule for the 2012 Sydney Taylor Book Award Blog Tour. Please follow the links to visit the hosting blogs on or after their tour dates, and be sure to leave them plenty of comments!

THE 2012 SYDNEY TAYLOR BOOK AWARD BLOG TOUR

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 5, 2012

Susan Campbell Bartoletti, author of Naamah and the Ark at Night
Sydney Taylor Honor Award winner in the Younger Readers Category
at Ima On & Off the Bima

Holly Meade, illustrator of Naamah and the Ark at Night
Sydney Taylor Honor Award winner in the Younger Readers Category
at Into the Wardrobe

Shelley Sommer, author of Hammerin' Hank Greenberg, Baseball Pioneer
Sydney Taylor Honor Award winner in the Older Readers Category
at Great Kid Books

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 6, 2012

Marcia Vaughan, author of Irena's Jar of Secrets
Sydney Taylor Honor Award winner in the Older Readers Category
at Shelf-Employed

Ron Mazellan, illustrator of Irena's Jar of Secrets
Sydney Taylor Honor Award winner in the Older Readers Category
at The Children's War

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 7, 2012

Trina Robbins, author of Lily Renee, Escape Artist: From Holocaust Survivor to Comic Book Pioneer
Sydney Taylor Honor Award winner in the Older Readers Category
at Bildungsroman

Anne Timmons (and possibly Mo Oh), illustrators of of Lily Renee, Escape Artist: From Holocaust Survivor to Comic Book Pioneer
Sydney Taylor Honor Award winner in the Older Readers Category
at Gathering Books

Morris Gleitzman, author of Then
Sydney Taylor Honor Award winner in the Teen Readers Category
at The 3 R's

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 8, 2012

Michael Rosen, author of Chanukah Lights
Sydney Taylor Book Award winner in the Younger Readers Category
at A Chair, a Fireplace, and a Tea Cozy

Robert Sabuda, illustrator/paper engineer of Chanukah Lights
Sydney Taylor Book Award winner in the Younger Readers Category
at Practically Paradise

Susan Goldman Rubin, author of Music Was It: Young Leonard Bernstein
Sydney Taylor Book Award winner in the Older Readers Category
at Cynsations

Robert Sharenow, author of The Berlin Boxing Club
Sydney Taylor Book Award winner in the Teen Readers Category
at Jewish Books for Children

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2012

Durga Yael Bernhard, author & illustrator of Around the World in One Shabbat
Sydney Taylor Honor Award winner in the Younger Readers Category
at Frume Sarah's World

Shirley Vernick, author of The Blood Lie
Sydney Taylor Honor Award winner in the Teen Readers Category
at The Fourth Musketeer

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2012

Eric Kimmel, author of The Golem's Latkes
Sydney Taylor Notable Book, and winner of the National Jewish Book Award
at Ann Koffsky's Blog

Gloria Spielman, author of Marcel Marceau, Master of Mime
Sydney Taylor Notable Book, and finalist for the National Jewish Book Award
at Shannon and the Sunshine Band

Richard Michelson, author of Lipman Pike: America's First Home Run King
Sydney Taylor Notable Book, and finalist for the National Jewish Book Award
at Blue Thread

Sydney Taylor Award Winners – Wrap-Up
All winners, all categories
at The Whole Megillah

Friendship in Picture Books -- A Workshop with Tamar Brazis

2012-01-20T08:55:00.000-08:00

At the Miami SCBWI Conference, I had the opportunity to attend a workshop taught by Tamar Brazis, Editorial Director at Abrams. The theme of the workshop was the art of friendship in picture books.

Ms. Brazis started the workshop by saying her favorite kind of picture books are about friendship. She used four books as examples: CITY DOG AND COUNTRY FROG by Mo Willems, MAKING A FRIEND by Allison McGhee, THE GIFT OF NOTHING by Patrick McDonnell, and DAYS WITH FROG AND TOAD by Arnold Lobel. We read each of these books aloud to see what made them special. All of them used simple, yet beautiful language. The thing they had in common was "feeling." Reading each of them left me with a comfy, cozy feeling, like being hugged by a good friend.

I think everybody in the world could use a few more hugs. As Ms. Brazis said, "Everything is better with a friend."

Do you have a favorite picture book or novel about friendship? What makes that book stand out in your mind?

GLORY BE An Interview With Augusta Scattergood

2012-01-10T13:23:00.000-08:00

Augusta is one of my writer friends living here in the Tampa Bay Area. I was delighted to attend her book launch party at Inkwood Books earlier this month, and to hear her interviewed on NPR.

Recently, I had the chance to chat with Augusta about her debut novel, GLORY BE, which was edited by Andrea Pinkney and published by Scholastic.

GLORY BE takes place in 1964 during Freedom Summer. What was your initial inspiration for this story?

I actually started writing the book in 2001, after hearing Ruby Bridges speak at Kent Place School in Summit, NJ, where I worked for ten years. Soon after that, I joined a critique group and mostly wrote book reviews and personal essays. Actually GLORY BE started life as “Junk Poker,” an essay/ short story about a game my sister and I played as children. That remained the working title of the novel for quite a while, through several premature submissions. Till I realized neither junk nor poker was a particularly appropriate title for a middle-grade novel.

But I need to go back a bit to tell you that this story really started in 1964 when I worked for my state’s Library Commission as a summer college intern. Sunflower County, Mississippi (And no, I didn’t make up that county’s name) was in the heart of the Mississippi Delta. It was Freedom Summer, 1964. A lot was going on, to say the very least on that subject. History unfolded while I shelved books and ran story hours.

As a library intern, I worked with an amazing director. She stood up to a very vocal library trustee who wanted us to close down the library, or at least remove all the chairs, rather than allow it to be integrated. By the end of that summer, Story Hour had turned into a remedial reading class attended by children who’d never been inside a library. That same summer, I briefly met a young, white civil rights worker from Ohio. In town to register voters and teach in the new Freedom School, she spent her off hours hanging out in the library. It’s not a reach to say I learned a lot that college summer.

And now, both my library director and that civil rights worker have ended up in my book.

I read a Willa Cather quote on your blog that said: “Let your fiction grow from the land beneath your feet.” Tell us how growing up in the Mississippi Delta influences your writing.

I see setting as almost another character in my writing. GLORY BE takes place during two short weeks in July. I always loved summers growing up. As I wrote this novel, I pictured mimosa blossoms from the tree outside my childhood home, and I heard crickets — that almost deafening sound that happened every early evening. When Glory and her friends gather to play kick-the-can or baseball, the pecan tree that shaded my backyard is home base.

Another quote I love is from Eudora Welty, as reported in One Writer’s Beginnings. She shared this advice from a literary critic: “Always be sure you get your moon in the right part of the sky.” I tried very hard to get the details of the Mississippi Delta right.

Give us a brief plot synopsis for your novel.

All Gloriana June Hemphill wants this summer is for her pool to stay open and her big sister to stay her best friend. But things are beginning to change in Hanging Moss, Mississippi, whether she likes it or not. The town is divided by the closing of the community pool and the civil rights workers who’ve come to town. Her sister has a boyfriend, the new football hero who’s mysteriously turned up in town.

Glory begins to make sense of these changes when she befriends the daughter of one of these “outside agitators.” Her maid, Emma, also helps her understand what’s changing in her life, and more importantly, why things shouldn’t stay the same.

GLORY BE is historical fiction. What research tips do you have for other authors?

Having spent most of my career as a librarian, the research part was fun. I think when writing for kids about such an important time in history, writers need to make sure young readers understand what it was like living in another century, in a different place or in someone else’s shoes. Quite honestly, even though I was there during this crucial time in our history, as a child I was shielded from a lot of what was happening in the South. So I’ve always been interested in learning more about Freedom Summer. For this book, I tried to read oral histories and also to interview my contemporaries about the actual events. Then I had fun remembering early 1960s music, the hairstyles, the food.

So many debut authors complain about the lack of marketing support for their novels. That has certainly not been your experience. Share with us the wonderful journey you’ve been on pre-publication.

A whirlwind. That’s about the only way I can describe it! My editor loved the book from the very start. We worked together for several months, then she started sharing it with everybody at Scholastic. For me, that’s when the excitement truly began.

Along with four other debut novelists, I was invited to speak at the spring sales meeting. Having been a school librarian for so long, I went prepared. I took my Junk Poker/ Buster Brown shoebox filled with treasures, and did a Show and Tell. After that, I was asked to read from the book for an audio recording Scholastic made to share with potential bookstore purchasers, then a video recording for their Librarians Preview. I could go on and on. I have no complaints! I adore Scholastic!

What has been the most exciting thing that has happened to you in the past year?

Wow. So many things. Re-connecting with old friends (mostly via my blog and Facebook) who have their own memories of the summer of 1964. Hearing grown-up readers tell me they want to share the book with their children and grandchildren and students to help them understand Freedom Summer. Lunch with my editor and tea with my agent when I returned to New Jersey for the summer. All the amazing events at Scholastic. I pinch myself on an almost daily basis. Even before the book is officially in print!

What are you working on now?

Aha. The hard part! I’m working on a second middle-grade novel, set in Florida, started at a Highlights Founders Workshop with Carolyn Coman at least three years ago. I try not to think about how long it takes me to write, from idea to fruition. I’m working hard to speed up that process. GLORY BE took almost ten years from the time I put pen to paper until the book hit the stores.

This “new” novel was critiqued by an amazing agent, Linda Pratt, at an SCBWI regional event. That’s how we met and totally connected, but she didn’t take me on until I revised and submitted GLORY BE a year later.

I have another tiny kernel of a potential master plan for something new, also middle-grade, set in the South of course. Always be prepared. Just in case.

My Holiday Reading List

2011-12-17T12:01:00.000-08:00

One of the nicest parts of Christmas is having leisure time to read to my heart's content. It seems the world slows down and I spend most of my time with family, food, and books. What could be better than that?

My reading list for the holidays includes:

1. GLORY BE by Augusta Scattergood - Augusta has written my favorite kind of book, historical fiction with a southern setting. GLORY BE takes place during Freedom Summer in 1964. Look for an upcoming interview with Augusta on my blog.

2. THE SCORPIO RACES - Maggie Stiefvater creates characters I care about and writes in a lovely lyrical way. THE SCORPIO RACES is getting lots of good buzz and I can't wait to see what all the hoopla is about!

3. BIRD IN A BOX by Andrea Davis Pinkney - Another historical fiction book that I'm looking forward to delving into. I enjoy reading authors with an African-American voice. Their writing is distinctive and usually has a poetic feel to it. When I read their work, I always hear the voice of Mrs. Pauline Porter, who taught me to read.

4. DAUGHTER OF SMOKE AND BONE by Laini Taylor - This novel was named one of Amazon's Top Ten Books of 2011. Universal Studios recently bought the rights to make it into a movie. My critique partner Cynthia Chapman Willis says it's a "must read." That is high praise indeed.

Happy Holiday to one and all! May you be surrounded by bright lights, good food, people who love you, and a stack of great books!

FLYAWAY by Lucy Christopher

2011-11-22T05:09:00.001-08:00

While browsing in my local Barnes & Noble, I was struck by all of the "cookie cutter" books on the shelves. I made it my mission to find a middle grade book with no fantastical elements. The one caveat was that it had to be a book I hadn't already read. I found exactly one book that fit my criteria: FLYAWAY by Lucy Christopher.

The back of the book says, "Quiet but compelling. Sensitive." -- Booklist, starred review. There is was again...the dreaded "Quiet" word. I paid for FLYAWAY and took it home with me. I settled down in my favorite reading chair to discover what makes this book "quiet."

Isla is an animal lover, especially swans. Very early on, we learn that her dad is having some health problems. When Isla goes birdwatching with him, Dad collapses, and it's up to Isla to get help for him.

The rest of the book is about Isla's emotional journey. Her first crush, her school project, her relationship with her prickly grandfather, but underlying all of the normal activities is a young girl struggling to grow up. Isla must face that life is fragile, and sometimes we lose the people we love most.

In my opinion, this book is deemed "quiet" because it doesn't have a "high action" plot. No buildings were blown up, bad guys didn't chase the protagonist, a wicked witch didn't die in a puff of smoke. Still I think many middle school girls will see a bit of themselves in Isla.

I enjoyed FLYAWAY, and if you are, or ever were, a girl on the cusp of growing up, you probably will too.

SECOND SIGHT by Cheryl Klein

2011-11-02T11:53:00.001-07:00

Reasons to read SECOND SIGHT:

1. It will improve your work-in-progress. On page 17 Ms. Klein writes, "I am extremely wary of the word "feel" in a manuscript, as in 'Cheryl felt extremely wary.'" I had a lightbulb moment! If I have to tell the reader how my character feels then I haven't done an adequate job showing how the character feels. I'm scanning all of my manuscripts for the F word. There are many other specific tips just like this one in the book.

2. It will make you a better critiquer. Recently, I was reviewing a manuscript for a talented writer in my critique group. Her first page just wasn't working for me. I discovered the reason why on page 39. "If you're using a description beginning, be careful that the description is relevant and intriguing, and that it doesn't go on too long before it gets to some action." I quoted Cheryl Klein in my critique and it provided a dose of objectivity.

3. It will make you a better reviser. There's an entire chapter titled " Twenty-Five Revision Techniques." My personal favorite is #11, which is basically outlining the action of the book chapter by chapter/scene by scene.

4. It will help you write a better query letter. Ms. Klein uses a query letter she received from Olugbemisola Rhuday-Perkovich and goes into all of the reasons why this letter works.

5. It will make you laugh! Ms. Klein was brave enough to print her 5th grade picture and to include some other funny photos in her chapter on how to write a picture book.

I marked up SECOND SIGHT with an orange highlighter so that I can refer back to it with ease. Now my plan of action is to delete all the F words and cut the scene where my protagonist is looking in the mirror. Ms. Klein calls that trick a cliche!

Have you read SECOND SIGHT? If so, what tips did you take away from it?

Mary Kole's Webinar

2011-10-10T12:07:00.000-07:00

I recently attended Mary Kole's webinar through Writer's Digest University. First off, I had never participated in a webinar, and it's a very easy process. It's also pretty affordable for writers who may not have the resources to attend a conference. The fee was $89 and included a critique of the first 500 words of a manuscript.

Ms. Kole provided some pretty straightforward definitions of a couple of terms that had been bothering me. She described a high concept book as "if Hollywood is likely to come knocking, then you've hit upon a high concept." That immediately brought Alex Flinn's BEASTLY to mind because Hollywood did indeed coming knocking.

Furthermore, Ms. Kole said quiet books are editor speak for not hooky enough. These books probably don't have breakout potential.

A few other tidbits include the following:

1. The first chapter of a book should introduce the character without an information dump. It should make the character sympathetic and put him/her in action. There should be an inciting incident and it should shape reader expectations of what is to come.

2. Denial is really frustrating to a reader. In essence, the writer is trying to hold off plot development. (Denial in a novel makes me crazy!)

3. The ending should be inevitable and unexpected. (I have to noodle this concept around some more.)

About a week after the webinar, Writer's Digest provided a link so that participants can listen to the presentation over again, as many times as we would like, for a year. One suggestion I have for improvement is to make an actual transcript available. It would save so much time over having to listen repeatedly. That said, I was favorably impressed with the webinar and will probably participate in others in the future.

Picture Book Biographies

2011-09-13T13:36:00.001-07:00

My favorite kind of illustrated books are picture book biographies. The ones I adore most are of unsung heroes like Walter Anderson. "He may be the most famous American artist you've never heard of."

Picture book biographies have a rhythm when read out loud. They summarize a person's entire life in usually under 1500 words. One of the key challenges in writing them is finding a focus, determining what to put in, and what to leave out.

Usually these books have an author's note and other material in the back for teachers and librarians. Writing them can take up to a year due to the amount of research required and the arduous task of making every word sing.

There are lots of wonderful picture book biographies out there. My personal library includes: Audubon Painter of Birds in the Wild Frontier, I Could do That! Esther Morris Gets Women the Vote, Patience Wright America's First Sculptor and Revolutionary Spy, Mr. Lincoln's Whiskers, and many more. Have you read a good picture book biography lately?

Writing That First Page

2011-09-08T10:38:00.000-07:00

For me writing the first page is the hardest part of writing a novel. I'll compare it to meeting someone for the first time. The conversation is a little stilted. You're in that awkward getting to know you phase. A few chapters in and the awkwardness has faded. You're old friends now who can't wait to catch up and plan your next adventure.

But as writers we must conquer the first page. Sometimes an agent or editor doesn't read any further. In the October issue of Writer's Digest, literary agent, Kristin Nelson uses four first page examples and only one of the four passes muster. She writes, "Trust me when I say that after an agent has read hundreds of thousands of sample pages--as my colleagues and I have at Nelson Literary Agency--we know."

Ms. Nelson stopped reading for the following reasons:

1. Too much dialogue.
2. Overuse of description.
3. Lack of tension.

If you get a chance, pick up a copy of the magazine. You can absolutely see her points.

I was thrilled to discover another article in the October issue called, "Your First 50 Pages The 4 Goals Your Beginning Must Meet." I am in the process of applying these rules, not only to my first 50 pages, but to the very first page. The opening should:

1. Introduce the story-worthy problem.
2. Hook the reader.
3. Establish the story rules.
4. Forecast the ending.

This is a harder exercise than it looks, but I am much happier with my first page from applying the concepts from this article.

A couple of years ago, I was lucky enough to receive a critique from Richard Peck. He gave me this bit of advice regarding first pages: Always rewrite the first page after you've written the last one. That really ties in well with #4 Forecast the ending.

What are your thoughts regarding the infernal first page? I'd love even more pointers on how to make them sing!

Writing Conference Blues

2011-08-19T11:32:00.001-07:00

An acquaintance of mine confessed that she cried all the way home from a recent SCBWI conference. I am not that girl, but I have been. This business is hard. For every writer that has a dream conference experience, there are hundreds who leave less than thrilled. Most are beginners. It's all about setting appropriate expectations.

I left my last conference in a mellow mood, but then I'm no longer expecting an editor to jump across the table and buy my book. So what exactly are realistic expectations from attending a conference?

1. You'll discover great books that you might not have heard of otherwise.
2. You'll have the chance to meet other writers that share your passion. Some of them will turn out to be lifelong friends.
3. You'll compile market information and begin to know which houses are appropriate for your work.
4. You'll attend workshops and pick up tips to improve your writing.
5. For an additional fee, you can usually have a chapter of your work critiqued.

That's it. That's what 99% of us can expect for our conference dollars. But as a disclaimer, I know four writers who actually met the editors who bought their books during critique sessions. So it can happen, but keep in mind that I've been attending conferences since 2005. My advice is to save yourself a lot of heartache and set realistic expectations. Any good thing that happens beyond that will be icing on the cake!

Digital Media With Emma Dryden, Rubin Pfeffer, and Loreen Leedy

2011-07-10T14:27:00.000-07:00

In the Digital Media Track at SCBWI Orlando, Emma Dryden reminded us the iPhone and the Kindle were first introduced in 2007, only four years ago.

Rubin Pfeffer added the prediction that by 2014 consumers would own 250,000,000 tablets.

Emma Dryden told us Laura Rennert, an agent at Andrea Brown Literary, has helped her client P.J. Hoover self-publish!

Even Kirkus has started reviewing apps.

I am left with the feeling we are tettering on the brink of a revolution almost as mind blowing as when the printing press replaced the handwritten book. Since we can't stop the coming changes, the best strategy is to adapt.

Luckily, Loreen Leedy is a wealth of knowledge for authors. The following notes are from her talk:

Why Should An Author Develop an App?

1. As a companion to a print book.

2. To reissue an out-of-print title.

3. To explore a niche market that a traditional publisher may not be interested in.

4. To create something impossible any other way.

What Are The Differences Between A Picture Book And A Picture Book App?

1. A printed book's format is static, but an app can be designed so that a reader chooses what happens next.

2. A picture book usually has 32 pages. The number of pages is optional with an app.

3. A picture book has double page spreads. An app has a single one-sized page.

4. An app has features that a picture book doesn't (e.g. narration/sound, games/activities).

5. An app is much easier to update than waiting on the next print run.

When Designing An App Think Movement

1. Flowers bloom.

2. Birds eat worms

3. Wheels go around and around.

4. Puzzles are assembled.

5. Bikes are taken apart...and put back together.

6. Autumn leaves change colors.

For savvy content creators, the possibilities are endless!

For much more information about picture book apps check out the following links:

Loreen Leedy<

E is for Book<

Plus there's a chat about apps on Twitter Sunday evenings at 9:00 #storyappchat.

What are your experiences with digital media? Have your feelings changed about self-publishing? Do you own an e-reader? Have you purchased a picture book app?

NOVEL INTENSIVE WITH MICHELLE BURKE, KATHLEEN DUEY, MARJETTA GEERLING

2011-07-07T11:41:00.000-07:00

I took lots of random notes during the novel intensive at SCBWI Orlando. Here's a quick summary:

1. If your main character wouldn't see or notice something don't describe it.

2. Readers want to live in the moment with the character - show don't tell.

3. Give your character two to three lenses through which he/she sees the world. (e.g. In CATALYST by Laurie Halse Anderson the protagonist sees the world through a scientific lens. "Toby and I are the proton and neutron of our atomic family unit.") The language develops because of the lens.

4. Study HOW TO READ NOVELS LIKE A PROFESSOR by Thomas Foster.

5. Interview your characters. Ask them, "Are you alright?" Though it sounds weird, Kathleen Duey swears by this.

I'd love to hear additional novel writing tips. So leave a comment and let's discuss.

Stephen Roxburgh's Novel Revision Workshop

2011-06-26T05:06:00.000-07:00

Wow! Let me just start with a superlative...or two!! I attended Stephen Roxburgh's workshop through the Highlights Foundation on June 19th thru 22nd.

Stephen read my historical novel in its entirety prior to the conference. He scribbled lots of notes in the margins for me to consider, but my real job is "to revise with intent." Each of us, (six participants), left with a detailed plan about how to revise our particular novel. Each plan is different.

My plan includes:

1. Outline the novel now that it is complete. Look at the emotional arc of the story. For every scene ask myself what I want the reader to be feeling at that point. How can I amp up the emotions?

2. Since my novel takes place over two years, Stephen wants me to draw a timeline and make sure the passage of time is as smooth and seamless to the reader as it can be.

3. I am to track every scene with my protagonist's boyfriend in it. Stephen thinks he comes off as a little "too good to be true."

4. For the final polish, I am to clip the pages together in 20 page increments and then shuffle. Pick a pile and start. Only polish until I feel my attention fading. Then stop and pick up another 20 pages after a long break.

He recommended that I read WINTER'S BONE and use it as one of my "guidebooks" on how to amp up emotions. I am feeling inspired to take my novel to the next level!

Perhaps the highest praise I can give this workshop is that I'd do it all over again. I consider the money well spent.

Interview With Newbery Honor Author, Grace Lin

2011-05-31T03:29:00.000-07:00

Grace Lin is a talented picture book author and illustrator. But she is best known for her Newbery Honor novel, WHERE THE MOUNTAIN MEETS THE MOON.

1. Take us back to the beginning of your career. How did you break into the business?

I graduated from the Rhode Island School of Design in Illustration, knowing that I wanted to be a children’s book illustrator. I sent out thousands of samples of my illustrations, hoping to break in. Nothing happened for two years, yet I refused to give up. I took an assortment of jobs and kept sending out samples and pounding the pavement. Finally I received a call from Harold Underdown, who was then Senior Editor at Charlesbridge. “I’ve always liked your art,” he said, “but I’ve never had a story that matched it. Do you have a story that goes with your new sample?” I said yes, even though I didn’t (I was desperate!), hung up the phone and began to write. After countless revisions and editorial handholding, the story became my first published book “The Ugly Vegetables.”

2. I read a quote in which you said, “My soul is Asian American.” Explain how your heritage has enriched your work.

As a child I completely disregarded my heritage. I didn’t want to be Asian. But when I grew older, I realized that being Asian is actually something to cherish. When I began to acknowledge my heritage, I was surprised at just how Asian I am and sad that I didn’t know more. Asian culture is interesting to me, because it is like finding hidden parts of myself. Books are my way of rediscovering the culture I lost and sharing the culture I know.

3. After several published picture books, what prompted you to also write novels?

My first book “The Ugly Vegetables” was semi-autobiographical and remains my favorite picture book. As soon as it was published, I wanted to write a sequel and tried and tried. But everything I wrote wouldn’t fit into a 32 page format and I really struggled for years. Finally (about 5 years later) I realized the story I wanted to tell just wasn’t meant to be a picture book and I should just write it and see where it went. It turned into the novel, THE YEAR OF THE DOG. Little did I know that it would begin a novel-writing career for me!

4. Tell us about the inspiration for WHERE THE MOUNTAIN MEETS THE MOON.

The book had many inspirations, but the most obvious one is Chinese folk and fairy tales. As I said earlier, when I was a child I tried to ignore my heritage as much as possible. However, because I loved to read, my mother was able to sneak in some culture by having me read Chinese folk and fairy tales. At the time, I didn’t think those stories had much effect on me. But when I grew older and traveled to China, Hong Kong and Taiwan, those stories came flooding back to me and twisted together to make a new story—the story that became WHERE THE MOUNTAIN MEETS THE MOON.

5. I enjoyed reading your blog . For those who haven’t read the story, share the excitement of getting “the call” from Newbery Committee Chair Katie O’Dell.

For a week or two before the big announcement, I was getting e-mails and congratulations on the “buzz” my book was getting, (it had won in a couple of Mock Newbery discussions), which was very nice, but a bit aggravating. I tried really hard to put it out of my head as I was afraid of jinxing myself as well as the probable disappointment. However, the night before the announcements, my editor said something about “having to be awake at 5:30 am.” I thought she meant that if I got “the call” it would come then.

So the next morning, I found myself awake at 5 am. The minutes ticked by and by 7 am the phone had not rung and I came to the sad conclusion that the book was not among the honored. I bucked myself up, told myself it was just an award and who cared anyway? It was not a big deal.

Then the phone rang and it was Katie O’Dell from the Newbery committee to tell me WHERE THE MOUNTAIN MEETS THE MOON had won the Newbery Honor! Suddenly, the award WAS a big deal. My emotions took a big 360 degree turnaround.

Later, I found out my editor meant she had to wake up at 5:30AM to go to a 6:30 AM breakfast to wait for calls that would come (hopefully) later that hour. Basically, I put myself through an emotional roller coaster due to poor listening skills.

6. How has winning a Newbery Honor changed your writing life?

In terms of actual writing and creation, it hasn’t changed too much—except now I feel the pressure of expectations. I worry more that people won’t like my new books—most recently I had a dream that the publisher printed the ARC of my new novel using my horrible first draft and a person flung it across the room in disgust, shouting, “And this is a Newbery Honor author?!” So much for subtleties, even my dreams are getting literal.

But, professionally, it’s been very gratifying. Before the Newbery Honor, my books were always labeled “multicultural.” I’d made peace with that label, even embraced it, but I knew the label also implied limits on readership and appeal. Upon being given the Newbery Honor, the multicultural label faded away. I was no longer “multicultural author/illustrator Grace Lin” but “Newbery Honor author Grace Lin” with the new implication that my books were for everyone. Of course, they had always been for everyone, but the Newbery Honor wiped away the preconceived notions and for the first time I felt like my book was widely read.

For me, there is nothing sadder than when you create something with all your heart and passion and realize that no one (or very few people care). So when the opposite happens, it is extremely wonderful. That was the amazing gift the Newbery Honor gave me.

7. Tell us about your latest picture book THANKING THE MOON.

This book is about the Autumn Moon Festival, a huge Asian holiday that many Westerners don’t seem to know about. Everyone knows about Chinese New Year, but the Moon Festival—which is kind of the equivalent to Thanksgiving—has been overlooked. It is one of my favorite Asian holidays as it is about thankfulness and harmony. I made the book in hopes that people will become familiar with the holiday as well as celebrate it on their own. We can never have too much thankfulness and harmony in the world!

8. You’ve also written an early reader LING AND TING NOT EXACTLY THE SAME. What are the challenges of writing in that genre?

Writing an early reader is the most difficult of all the genres I’ve written for. I felt strongly that this book should be an appropriate early reader book—nowadays some early readers break the rules and use words like “outrageous,” but that can be discouraging for a struggling reader. I really wanted this book to be something that fostered reading.

So, my editor and I checked each word in the Word Dictionary to make sure it was reading appropriate for the genre. We also made sentences contain ten word maximum and limited words that were more than two syllables. I tried to repeat words and sentence structures as much as possible without being too wooden. And above all this, the story had to be fun and interesting.

That is why I refuse to call LING AND TING and books in this genre easy readers. They aren’t easy! Not for the reader and not for the creator!

9. What tips do you have for aspiring author/illustrators?

Read, buy books and encourage others to do the same. If you wish to work in this industry you need to know what is out there and support it. Read for knowledge, to enrich what you yourself will create. Buy for self-preservation. A bookseller recently told me, “I think we’ll be lucky if we have about 10 more years of book selling.” The book industry is struggling, there is no denying it. Do your part to help keep it alive, so it will have the chance to publish your books!

10. Can you give us a preview of your upcoming projects?

My next novel is DUMPLING DAYS. It is a sequel to “THE YEAR OF THE DOG” and THE YEAR OF THE RAT. It is about Pacy’s first trip to Taiwan, her parents’ homeland. It comes out January 2012.

My next picture book is, “LI NA’S LILY.” It follows a taxi driver in Beijing, China who has been given a lily by his daughter. Right now I am in the sketch phase of this book and the ambitions are quite big for it so far. I hope I can pull it off, but I may have to tweak things. It’s scheduled for release in the Summer of 2012, but things tend to change…

THE SKY IS EVERYWHERE by Jandy Nelson

2011-05-14T13:20:00.001-07:00

I couldn't wait to read THE SKY IS EVERYWHERE, after hearing literary agent, Erin Murphy, speak at the Miami SCBWI Conference. Ms. Murphy reads a lot of YA literature, so if it was her favorite book of the season, that was good enough for me.

However, I didn't expect to fall totally, head-over-heels in love. It may be my favorite book of all time. You see, I have something in common with Lennie, the book's protagonist: we have both lost our only sisters.

Lennie's last conversation with her sister was inconsequential. It was over whether Bailey should wear a blue or a green shirt. My last conversation with Robin was over the phone, but not about anything really important either. There is no warning whenever we're speaking to someone for the last time. In hindsight, that is maddening and seems so wrong.

Lennie talks of choosing the dress her sister will wear forever. What a profound way of putting it. I chose the clothes my sister is buried in also, but in Robin's case, I chose pants. She hated dresses and there was no way I was torturing her with one for all of eternity.

I completely lost it when Lennie laments not being a sister anymore. Robin was born when I was three years old. I don't remember a time prior to being a sister, but the twelve years since her death have been extremely painful. We've celebrated many holidays with an empty seat at the table. She is my son's godmother, and I've marked every milestone without her to share them with.

I don't know Jandy Nelson personally, but somehow she knows what is inside my heart. She wrote it all down to share with sisterless girls everywhere.

It's not enough to have THE SKY IS EVERYWHERE on my Kindle. I need to hold this book in my hands. If you've ever lost someone you love more than life, read this book. You won't be sorry.

A Life Of Its Own

2011-05-08T13:32:00.000-07:00

My writing has a life of its own. Once I sell a story or article, it's out of my control. I let go, say a little prayer, and wish it a safe voyage. Occasionally small miracles happen.

Last Thursday I received the following email out of the clear blue sky:

Dear Shannon,

I’m doing an article on profiles for The Writer’s Guide. Lonnie Plecha--editor of Cricket--mentioned your article “A Pirate’s Life For Me” as an example of a good profile for Cricket and when I went to your website I saw that you’ve written others as well. Would you be willing to do an interview with me about your process? I could send you some questions you could answer via email if that would work for you or we could set up a time to talk on the phone.

Thanks so much for considering this interview.

All best,

Patty Pfitsch

I wrote "A Pirate's Life for Me" several years ago. Much has happened to it since that maiden voyage. It appeared in the August 2008 issue of Cricket, an updated version was published in the November 2009 issue of Ask, and now bits of it will appear in The Writer's Guide. What a lovely surprise!

Have any unexpected bits of good fortune happened to your writing? Leave a comment and tell me all about it.

The Beta Readers

2011-04-28T09:59:00.000-07:00

I finally have a first draft of my latest novel! I've done a couple of read throughs and made minor revisions. Now it's time for the beta readers, each of which brings different expertise to the process.

Jeannine Norris - Jeannine is a picture book author, (TONIGHT YOU ARE MY BABY). Because Jeannine writes short, she's great at spotting awkward sentences, overused descriptions, and passages which need clarifying.
Diana Sharp - Dr. Sharp is a reading researcher and creator of The Reading Machine, an iPhone/iPod touch/iPad app for beginning or dyslexic readers. My current protagonist has a reading disability and Dr. Sharp will lend her expertise to make sure I handle the disability in a realistic way.
Cynthia Chapman Willis - Cindy is a novelist, (DOG GONE and BUCK FEVER). She's great at pointing out what's lacking in my manuscript: passages that need more description, characters that need fleshing out, and plot points that don't hang together.

All of my beta readers bring "fresh eyes" to my work. They'll uncover problems that I'd never see on my own.

I've been letting my life slide to finish this novel. It's time to take a couple of weeks and just breathe.

The Groove Train

2011-04-15T07:17:00.000-07:00

I'm on a writing "groove train." Within a couple of weeks, (God willing and the creek don't rise), I should have a draft of my latest novel.

Every writer's process is different. I was reminded of that this morning while reading my friend, Cynthia Chapman Willis' blog. Cindy has been revising by trimming her novel, (she compares it to a good haircut). I'll be revising by adding to mine, like working in a dollop of mousse to give it a little extra volume.

During revision, I'll see places that need more description, passages that should be drawn out, time gaps that should be filled. I don't understand how Cindy writes long, and she doesn't get how I write short, but in the end we'll both have completed novels.

Tell me about the process that works for you. Does your writing need plumping up or thinning out?

The Twitter Advantage

2011-03-31T13:55:00.000-07:00

I enjoy Facebook's format more than Twitter's, but recently I've experienced the Twitter Advantage. For the first time ever, I am in a critique group with an author/illustrator. Eileen is interested in graphic novels...a subject about which I am woefully ignorant. So I posted on Twitter: "Need graphic novel recommendations for children." A woman that I didn't know recommended Owly. Within minutes I got a message that I was being "followed" by Owly's creator, Andy Runton. The Twitter advantage doesn't limit you to connecting with friends, but allows you to search for people that have the information you need. How cool is that? So what's your preference, Facebook or Twitter?

Books I'm Reading Now

2011-03-23T11:57:00.000-07:00

STORY OF A GIRL by Sara Zarr - Thirteen-year-old Deanna Lambert's father catches her having sex with a seventeen-year-old boy. The premise makes me cringe, but yet books like this remind young girls they are not alone when they make a bad decision. For a parent who says, "I don't want my child to read this," I would offer a counter argument: the book shows such negative consequences that I think any young girl contemplating sex would stop and think twice.

IT'S RAINING CUPCAKES by Lisa Schroeder - Isabel's mother decides to reinvent herself by opening a cupcake shop. The problem is she lacks gumption when things go wrong. Isabel helps her mother with the shop and learns a lot about herself in the process. This book would generate lots of discussion at a mother/daughter book club.

DORK DIARIES and DORK DIARIES 2 by Rachel Renee Russell - The tween heroine of these books reminds me of Beckie Bloomwood from Sophie Kinsella's CONFESSIONS OF A SHOPAHOLIC series. Both heroines get themselves into such outlandish situations that we as readers can't stop until we see how they are going to save the day. Another great feature of DORK DIARIES is its unique format, combining text and illustrations.

THE LEMONADE WAR by Jacqueline Davies - This book shows sibling rivalry at its finest. Evan and Jessie set up competing lemonade stands to see who can be the first to earn $100. Again the format is unique. The book contains mini posters with tips for running a successful small business.

If you've read any of these books, I'd love to hear your opinions. If you have suggestions of middle grade or young adult books that I might enjoy, I'd appreciate the recommendations.

Happy Reading!

Switching Teams: From PC to MacBook Pro!

2011-03-12T14:40:00.000-08:00

Time and technology wait for no writer! My husband gifted me with a new Macbook Pro for Christmas and an i-Phone 4 for my birthday.

Let's start with the phone. The i-Phone is the easiest cell phone to use I have ever owned. It also doubles as an i-Pod so I can listen to music. With one touch of the screen, I can access my email when traveling. I adore my i-Phone!

After many years using a PC, I've had a bit of trouble switching to a Mac. Here are some tips based on my experience.

1. The Apple Store is your friend. For a small fee they will transfer the files from your PC to your Mac, and provide one-on-one tutoring.

2. MacBook For Dummies is a very helpful manual.

3. For backup purposes you can't beat "My Passport for Mac." It's a small black box that plugs into one of the Mac's USB ports and provides automatic, continuous backup. (Cost $100)

4. Good-bye virus scans. So far Macs are virus free!

5. My electronics are in-sync! I charge my phone by plugging it into the Mac's USB port and it syncs any music I've purchased via computer with my phone/i-Pod.

I checked in with a couple of writer friends who also use Macs and here's what they had to say:

"I can painlessly and effortlessly sync everything for the first time in my entire life. I can get apps like QuickCal, which make my life easier by orders of magnitude, yet are free or mainly cost me less than ten bucks. I can listen to music I like on Pandora because it magically arrives on my i-Phone - and all I had to do was name one thing for it to do that." Gina Hagler

Cynthia Willis says: "If I have a problem the Apple Store is nearby. I simply bring my laptop in and the problem is fixed. I also love all the software that comes with a Mac - iPhoto, iDVD, iMovie. My one and only gripe would be that Macs tend to outdate themselves very quickly. Visiting an Apple Store with a three-year-old computer is like walking in with a dinosaur in your arms."

I haven't taken the time yet to explore all of the software that Cynthia mentions. I'm finding the Mac to be a continuous learning process...I still haven't figured out how to add pictures to my blog. The Apple Store employees have their work cut out for them!

Please share any advantages/disadvantages you've experienced with the Mac. And if you have questions, post them and I'll ask one of my more experienced friends to chime in!

Tidbits from Cinda Williams Chima, Paul Zelinsky, and Robin Wasserman

2011-02-20T18:59:00.000-08:00

SCBWI Miami, January 2011

Fantasy Writers: Cinda Williams Chima said her life and her books are all about transformation. Her website has helpful links and tips, many geared toward fantasy writers. One tip is sort of discouraging, but I agree with it anyway, "Don't be a writer unless you have to...there are easier, more reliable ways of making money." Cinda's latest book THE GRAY WOLF THRONE will be released on September 20, 2011. THE EXILED QUEEN is in stores now.

Illustrators: Caldecott winner, Paul Zelinsky, broadened my view of fantasy. He said fantasy today is "a world that is not bound only by our laws." He challenged us to ask the question: "What if our world is more than it seems?" To view some of Paul's wonderful illustrations check out his website.

YA Writers: YA author, Robin Wasserman offered the following tips:

Use the software Scrivener to organize research notes. More about Scrivener here.
Watch the television series "Friday Night Lights" to better understand teens.
Google Scott Westerfeld's presentation "Slanguage: Teen Voices and Teen Vernaculars."
Google Patricia Wrede's article about "Worldbuilding."

You can read more about Robin Wasserman at her website.

If anybody has actually tried Scrivener, I'd love to hear about your experience. How difficult is it to use? Pros and cons.

Bruce Hale: A Man of Many Hats

2011-02-13T08:16:00.000-08:00

Bruce Hale, author of SNORING BEAUTY and the Chet Gecko mystery series, delivered the kickoff speech at our Miami SCBWI Conference. To say he was phenomenal is an understatement.

I read on Bruce Hale's blog that prior to writing children's books, he worked as an actor and a deejay. He still loves to perform and has appeared on stage and television. None of that experience has gone to waste. Bruce Hale is first and foremost an entertainer.

Bruce's talk centered on the following six principles:

Start a good habit - cut time blogging, facebooking, tweeting etc.
Write like your hair is on fire - driven by passion.
Think it through, and take the big view - ask questions like a three-year-old. Keep asking why.
Teamwork makes the dream work - critique groups, conferences.
Face the iron tiger - FEAR. Fear never stops.
Beat resistance with persistence - what would happen if I pushed a little harder?

For Bruce's grand finale, he sang "You Gotta Be" by Des'ree. He was so infectious, that all of us rose to our feet and sang along with him.

If you'd like to be inspired by Bruce Hale, he has a free electronic newsletter full of tips for writers. You can sign up here: Bruce Hale's Writing Tips.

I recently submitted a question to Bruce and he published it in his newsletter. The question was "What happens after a writer receives a contract?" For participating, I received an ARC, (advanced reading copy), of one of the Chet Gecko mysteries.

So what happens after a writer receives a contract? You'll have to subscribe to Bruce's newsletter to find out!

Novel Writing Tips from Erin Murphy, Joyce Sweeney, and Krista Marino

2011-02-05T17:11:00.000-08:00

As part of the SCBWI Miami conference, I attended a "Novel Writing Intensive" led by literary agent, Erin Murphy; Executive Editor, Krista Marino; and writing instructor, Joyce Sweeney.

Erin Murphy talked about the art of revision. She advised us to see our manuscripts with fresh eyes. She shared the following tips to help:

Apply Darcy Pattison's shrunken manuscript technique.
Outline after you've written a first draft.
Employ the nine steps for plotting fiction (found on Verla Kay)
Use wordle.net to look for overused words.

Joyce Sweeney started by telling writers to "be in scene almost all the time." She advised using the first part of a scene to orient the reader (e.g. who, what, when, where). She asked us to consider what each particular scene means to the novel as a whole. To remember that each chapter needs its own arc.

Krista Marino lectured about voice. There are two kinds: authorial voice, which she defined as the fingerprint of an author, think Stephen King and Meg Cabot. The second kind is narrative voice, which she called "the character's voice."

Elements that contribute to voice include:

Diction - Word choices.
Perspective - Mental view.
Characterization - Appearance, age, gender, education level, ambitions, motivations.
Dialogue

Krista said the #1 element missing from most manuscripts she receives is interior monologue. She read us a passage from REVOLUTION by Jennifer Donnelly without interior monologue, and then she read the same passage with the interior dialogue inserted. The manuscript was much richer and more interesting with the right amount of interiosity included.

Krista reminded us that when you're young everything feels like the end of the world. She said to write effectively for teens, we should erase adult perspective and in our minds go back to high school everyday. We need to actually listen to teens to get their dialogue just right.

The workshop provided lots of great tips, and I'm summarizing an entire days worth of notes. If anything is unclear, post a question and I'll try and answer it.

Happy Writing!

ERIN MURPHY and AUDREY VERNICK TALK QUIET BOOKS

2011-01-28T11:58:00.000-08:00

During the recent Miami SCBWI conference, I attended a workshop with literary agent Erin Murphy and her client Audrey Vernick. The topic was quiet books.

What exactly is a quiet book? It's the opposite of a high concept book, (e.g. vampires). If you hear that an author wrote a vampire book, you're pretty sure of what the book will be about...romance with a vampire. On the other hand, a quiet book is hard to summarize in one sentence. Quiet books are often about relationships, sometimes they're historical. These kind of books are harder to sell and harder to market.

Ms. Murphy spoke about ways to make a quiet book louder. She used Lisa Schroeder's book, IT'S RAINING CUPCAKES, as an example. This book is technically a quiet book. It's about the relationship between a mother and her daughter. Sounds like a hundred other books, right? But the author made this book more interesting by its unusual setting: many scenes take place in a cupcake shop. The publisher was able to use this setting as a marketing hook. The cover is pink with cupcakes to appeal to tween girls.

Ways to Make A Quiet Book Louder:

1. Add a hook. (e.g. THE EXPRESSOLOGIST by Kristina Springer - main character is a barista)

2. Really unique setting. (e.g. IT'S RAINING CUPCAKES)

3. Glamorize the situation. (e.g. THE PRESIDENT'S DAUGHTER by Ellen Emerson White)

4. Wish fulfillment (e.g. ANNA and the FRENCH KISS by Stephanie Perkins)

5. Have the character make a really bad choice. (STORY OF A GIRL by Sara Zarr)

I developed a reading list of both picture books and novels from Ms. Murphy's workshop. Check out the following titles for quiet books that were loud enough to find success in the marketplace.

LOOKING FOR ALASKA by John Green

CLEMENTINE by Sara Pennypacker

THE SKY IS EVERYWHERE by Jandy Nelson (Erin Murphy's favorite book of the season)

THE PENDERWICKS by Jeanne Birdsall

TOYS GO OUT by Emily Jenkins

A CROOKED KIND OF PERFECT by Linda Urban

JULIA GILLIAN by Alison McGhee

STORY OF A GIRL by Sara Zarr

THE PERKS OF BEING A WALLFLOWER by Stephen Chbosky

TRIGGER by Susan Vaught

PENNY DREADFUL by Laurel Snyder

RED GLASS by Laura Resau

AMAZING MORNING ON ORANGE STREET by Joanne Rocklin

ADIOS, NIRVANA by Conrad Wesselhoeft

SOMEDAY THIS PAIN WILL BE USEFUL TO YOU by Peter Cameron

SOMEDAY by Alison McGhee

NOTES FROM A LIAR AND HER DOG by Gennifer Choldenko

Quiet books are my favorite books to read and to write. This workshop gave me lots to contemplate as I plot my next novel. Audrey Vernick writes quiet books too. Be on the lookout for her upcoming novel, WATER BALLOON.

If you've read any of the books on the list, I'd like to hear your opinion. Or if you write quiet books, I'd be interested in hearing about your experiences.

Writing Picture Books Tips From Rubin Pfeffer at East/West Literary

2011-01-21T08:15:00.000-08:00

I recently had the good fortune to attend a workshop at the Florida SCBWI conference led by Rubin Pfeffer. The workshop was called, "The Art (or Science) of Picture Book Submission."

Mr. Pfeffer started by telling us it's a tough market for picture books. One reason is the number and quality of good chapter books. Kids are simply graduating to chapter books earlier, which is why editors are looking for brief picture books written for the very young.

Mr. Pfeffer shared a story about a picture book he recently sold called A PRESENT FOR MILO. After he made the rounds of New York houses, he simply could not sell this book. Because Mr. Pfeffer is a champion of e-publishing, he had an "app" made of A PRESENT FOR MILO. The electronic version led to a print book deal. He opened my eyes to the possibility of a print and e-version actually complementing each other.

The following list is the criteria Mr. Pfeffer uses to evalutate picture book submissons. He credits the list to his dear friend, Andrea Welch at Beach Lane Books. A manuscript doesn't need all of these, but it should have several of them.

1. Who is the manuscript for? Is there a clear audience?
2. Is the manuscript emotionally engaging?
3. Does it meet a special childhood emotional need?
4. Is there a highly creative concept, structure, or execution?
5. Does the manuscript use clever, evocative language?
6. Is there a compelling narrative arc?
7. Does the manuscript have strong pacing? Fun page turns?
8. Wordcount...Keep it down! Has the author left enough room for the illustrator to bring it to life?
9. Are the characters memorable and relatable?
10. Is it a story kids will want to hear again and again?

I was thrilled to meet Mr. Pfeffer, and proud that I'm represented by his partner at East/West Literary, Mary Grey James.

I'd love to hear if these tips help with your picture book submissions. Happy Writing!

BOARD BOOK EDITION OF TONIGHT YOU ARE MY BABY IS HERE!

2010-12-12T14:51:00.000-08:00

TONIGHT YOU ARE MY BABY is a beautifully illustrated picture book that tells the nativity story from Mary's viewpoint. Though the book was originally published in 2008, HarperCollins has released a board book edition just in time for the holiday season.

If you're looking for the perfect gift for a little one in the 2-4 age group, pick up a copy at your favorite bookstore or order it from Amazon.com.

Dreaming Of Chautauqua?

2010-12-08T08:39:00.000-08:00

I have never been to Chautauqua, but I try and attend at least one Highlights Foundation program each year. At no other conference, have I received the sort of one-on-one editor feedback available through their programs.

Below is an email from Jo Lloyd about scholarships available to attend Chautauqua:

Hello Highlights Foundation Friends,

Wishing you a happy holiday season. Since you have mentioned one or more of our programs in recent blogs, I wondered if you might pass along information about our 2011 Chautauqua Scholarship Program via a blog or some other social-networking means?

You may know someone who is hesitating to pursue his or her Chautauqua dream due to finances. The Highlights Foundation offers scholarships and now is the time to find out more.

A lot of children’s writers dream of the Highlights Foundation Writers Workshop at Chautauqua. “Next year,” they promise themselves. “Next year I’m going to Chautauqua!” Then reality sets in. The drive and talent to support the dream are there, but the finances . . . maybe not.

Please encourage your writing friends to stop dreaming and start planning! Pass along our scholarship newsletter. Scholarships will be considered in two groups. Early applications will be accepted through December 15, 2010.(Final scholarship deadline is February 11, 2011.)

Please feel free to forward this e-mail to others who might find it of interest, paste it into your blog, or spread the news on social-networking sites.

Thanks so much,
Jo

Jo Lloyd Program Assistant
Highlights Foundation, 814 Court Street
Honesdale, PA 18431
Phone: (877) 512-8365 (toll-free) or (570) 251-4557
Fax: (570) 253-0179
jalloyd@highlightsfoundation.org http://www.highlightsfoundation.org/

PEANUTS CARTOONS

2010-12-03T07:43:00.000-08:00

Some days are like that for writers. You pour your heart and soul onto the page and end up feeling like crap. Luckily, I am part of a group of talented writers known as "The Goal Buddies."
Our fearless leader is the talented Barbara Krasner and our resident humorist is Mary Morton Cowan, winner of the National Outdoor Book Award for CAPTAIN MAC.

This past week was a difficult one for THE GOAL BUDDIES. Things didn't go according to plan for some members and Mary posted this cartoon to make us all smile.

If I have one bit of advice for other writers, it is this: Surround yourself with other people who share your passion. They'll cheer at your good news and coax you over the bumps.

GLEE!

2010-11-20T11:33:00.001-08:00

For someone who can't carry a tune in the proverbial bucket, I love music! My newest addiction is the television show GLEE. Since I spend most of my time writing for teenagers, I justify this addiction as research.

My favorite episode happened last week with Gwyneth Paltrow playing a substitute teacher. I've watched two of the videos over and over on YouTube. It's impossible not to sing along to these tunes:

Umbrella/Singing in the Rain

Forget You

What do you think? Are you a GLEEK too?

A Turkey at the White House

2010-11-06T15:20:00.000-07:00

Just in time for Thanksgiving, my critique partner Jeannine Norris, has an article in the November issue of Highlights for Children.

"A Turkey at the White House," describes how each year the President pardons a turkey in an official ceremony. Jeannine writes, "The pardoning of the turkey dates all the way back to President Lincoln."

Check out the article to discover the rest of the story and to see President Obama pardon a 45-pound turkey named Courage.

CYN BALOG'S FAIRY TALE STORY

2010-10-10T06:35:00.000-07:00

Cyn Balog’s first novel, FAIRY TALE, was published in 2009 by Delacorte Press. Her second novel, SLEEPLESS, is set for release in July. And Cyn’s news gets even more exciting: she has two additional novels scheduled for publication in 2011 and 2012!

I read on your blog that you have two small children.

Yes, I just had a baby in July of 2009, right after FAIRY TALE was released, and I also have a three-year-old who doesn’t nap. It is chaotic. I find that I was actually able to get more work done when I was working full-time out of the house, because I would set aside my lunch hour to write. My daughter was in daycare so I had no interruptions.

What tips do you have for other parents who are trying to write with kids underfoot?

Write after they go to bed. I am not a night person but I have had to force myself to stay awake at the computer.

All of your books are paranormal romances. What draws you to this genre?

I didn’t set out to write paranormal romances. I liked them, and I’d read a story about a girl who learned she was a fairy princess. It seemed like there are so many books about girls who learn they are fairy princesses, and I thought, “That’s boring!” because the girl is lucky! She’d be the envy of all her friends. Not so if it was a boy learning he was a fairy prince. I thought that would be more interesting, so I wrote it. And then I had the idea for SLEEPLESS. Afterwards, I was kind of branded a paranormal author. I tried writing a realistic book, but my editor wanted me to stay with the paranormals, so I added a paranormal element to it. It’s cool, doing paranormals, though. I get to make really wild stuff up!

Describe your agent search.

I was very lucky finding an agent. My critique partner loved my work and then sent it off to her agent, who loved it as well and signed me. I hadn’t really been looking for an agent for very long so I maybe garnered only two or three rejections at that point. But don’t kill me! I had my share of heartbreak…the manuscript didn’t sell.

Tell us more about that experience.

My agent submitted to a handful of editors and like I said, they all swiftly rejected it. Meanwhile I’d been working on another book, FAIRY TALE, and my agent was so certain that should be the one I debuted with because she felt it was much stronger. She was right. She submitted it as soon as I finished and I had a pre-empt six weeks later from Delacorte.

Who is your editor and will you be working with the same editor on all four books?

Stephanie Lane Elliot is my editor for all four books…she’s wonderful to work with. I have heard editor horror stories and have been lucky that Stephanie is such a pleasure.

What promotional tools have you found to be most effective in reaching your target audience?

I have to say that promotion for FAIRY TALE went down the toilet last year considering I was nine months pregnant upon its release. I had to limit signings and events to once a month. I did find producing and handing out bookmarks to everyone I knew was a huge help. I also made use of Facebook and really relied on my online friends for their help.

How did you celebrate your first book?

The day FAIRY TALE came out, I went waddling along to every bookstore in a twenty mile radius of my house and just said, “Hey this is my book, want me to sign stock?” That was so exciting. Well, for the most part; a few nervous bookstore workers were like, “Um. You’re not in labor yet, are you?” But I will probably do the same with SLEEPLESS. Well, minus being pregnant, thankfully. There is something so exhilarating about going into a bookstore and seeing your book there. It never gets old.

Can you give us a preview of SLEEPLESS?

SLEEPLESS is about a Sandman who falls in love with a mortal girl whose sleep he controls. I wrote it in three weeks while seven months pregnant so that’s really all I remember about it. I’d had longer to write the book, but the first draft I turned in, which was written when I was going through the worst morning sickness, was so hopeless and dreary Stephanie asked me to rewrite it. It took everything I had to open up the document and start again. But I kept telling myself that being a writer was my dream; I hadn’t come this far just to give up. So I redid it in three weeks so I could keep it on schedule.

What tips do you have for aspiring novelists?

Don’t stop writing. While you’re submitting to agents, keep writing your next book. While your agent is submitting to editors, keep writing. If you are stuck on something, skip over it and write the next chapter. Write something else. Do not stop. There is a lot of discouragement in this business and if you let it stop you from writing, you’re sunk. If you keep at it, eventually it will pay off. I have a lot of writer friends, and I can place them into one of two groups. There are the ones who dwell on every little word in their manuscript or every little rejection and eat cartons of ice cream and mope. I call them Complainers. And then there are the ones who are positive and keep going no matter what. I call them Published, because eventually, that’s what they all became!

Shannon Hitchcock is represented by Mary Grey James at East/West Literary. She has her fingers crossed that one of her novels will sell!

Tips for A Good Writing Day

2010-09-04T12:25:00.000-07:00

I attended a workshop led by author Kathleen Duey. She said, "If you have a good writing day, find out why. Try to duplicate it." That advice caused me to ponder my work habits. Here are tips from my journey:

1. Discover what time you're most productive. For me it's first thing in the morning. If I can write from 6:30 am until about 10:00 am, then my output increases.

2. Tune out distractions. That means I write offline. It is very tempting to check email, Facebook, and Twitter, but they take my focus off of the task at hand.

3. Enjoy the journey. Comparing my career to other more accomplished authors does not lead to better writing, only frustration.

4. Exercise. It improves my mood. Besides who wants to be an overweight, out-of- shape author?

5. Take Breaks. Books, travel, and spending time with friends all provide material for my writing.

How does your writing process differ from mine? I'd be interested in hearing what works for you.

To Kindle Or Not To Kindle?

2010-07-13T12:58:00.000-07:00

I caved. I recently purchased my first electronic book. For me it was a hard choice. There are few things I enjoy more than holding a book in my hands...but you should see my house. I hoard books. I have three floor to ceiling double bookcases, and yet I'm out of room for books.

I read JOEY PIGZA SWALLOWED A KEY on my Kindle. I enjoyed the story immensely, but there were a few negatives:

1. I missed seeing the cover art.

2. There were a few parts that I wanted to reread but it was too aggravating to find them.

3. My Kindle needed to be recharged in the middle of the story.

So now I've reached a compromise. I will buy electronic books when I'm pretty sure that it's not a story I will read again and again. But I can't give up on traditional books. It would be easier to quit eating chocolate!

How I Found My Agent

2010-07-09T05:07:00.000-07:00

The January/February issue of The SCBWI Bulletin had the following blurb:

"Mary Grey James former lead book buyer for Ingram Book Company joined East/West Literary Agency (EWA) as a partner literary agent, personal interest in Southern women and their stories; serves as the vice president/president-elect of the Women's National Book Association (WNBA) and chair of the WNBA Pannell Award Committee that honors two bookstores each year which excelled in bringing books and young people together."

The words personal interest in Southern women and their stories jumped out at me. I grew up in rural North Carolina and most of my stories reflect that. Might Mary Grey James be the agent for me?

The article didn't list any contact information so I fired up Google. I located Mary Grey James and her email address through Linked In. I sent Mary an email query and she requested the full manuscript. About six weeks later, I signed the contract. Two things worked in my favor:

1. I write what Mary is looking for: Southern stories.
2. Mary is a new agent. It's easier to break in when an agent is actively building his/her list.

Mary has my first novel out on submission. It's an exciting time for me and I'm waiting. Waiting for the right editor to sprinkle blood, sweat and tears so that together we can turn my manuscript into a published novel.

Are you looking for an agent? Or do you already have one? I'd love to hear your story.

Writers Need Patience

2010-06-24T08:25:00.000-07:00

I've found that nothing in publishing moves quickly. A writer needs the patience of Job, not only to revise the same story again and again, but to wait while agents and editors evaluate our work.

My minister sent out his weekly email blast this morning, and I think he's talking directly to me:

“Strong people wait a lot. It’s the kind of patience that holds onto a dream when everything seems to be stacked against it; patience that continues to believe..."

I continue to believe that my writing dream will one day result in a published book, and to be thankful for yet another magazine sale. I recently received my fifth contract from POCKETS magazine. Look for my article, "Paul's Project," in the November 2010 issue. And for a dose of inspiration, check out Paul's website.

SSYRA Novels Announced for 2010/2011!

2010-05-28T12:31:00.000-07:00

I've been reading the middle grade novels on the Sunshine State Young Reader's Award list for the past two years, and I have yet to read a bad book. The librarians who work to select these novels do a fantastic job!

I will be reading and blogging about the following novels beginning late summer:

1. The Seer of Shadows by Avi
2. The Boy Who Dared by Susan Campbell Bartoletti
3. Taken by Edward Bloor
4. Diamonds in the Shadow by Caroline B. Cooney
5. Football Hero by Tim Green
6. The Great Wide Sea by M. L. Herlong
7. Do Not Pass Go by Kirkpatrick Hill
8. Lawn Boy by Gary Paulsen
9. Billy Creekmore by Tracey Porter
10. Lost Time by Susan Mauphin Schmid
11. The Mailbox by Audrey Shafer
12. Changeling by Delia Sherman
13. I. Q. Independence Hall by Roland Smith
14. Mercy on These Teenage Chimps by Gary Soto
15. Smiles to Go by Jerry Spinelli

Have you read any of the books on the list already? If so I'd love to hear your opinion.

Florida Kids Vote For Their Favorite MG Novel SSYRA Program!

2010-05-19T13:01:00.000-07:00

And the winner is RUNAWAY by Wendelin Van Draanen!

Analyzing The Sunshine State Young Readers' Award Books

2010-05-16T13:55:00.000-07:00

I recently read and blogged about all 15 middle grade novels on The Sunshine State Young Readers' Award List. I grouped the novels into categories to see what they have in common.

1. Contemporary or Historical? - Eleven books on the list have a contemporary setting and four are historical fiction.

2. Humorous? Three of the books are humorous: THE MISADVENTURES OF MAUDE MARCH, AIRBALL MY LIFE IN BRIEFS, and SCHOOLED.

3. Multicultural? Four books deal with different cultures: LA LINEA, HOT, SOUR, SALTY, SWEET, THE ENTERTAINER AND THE DYBBUK, and GABRIEL'S HORSES.

4. Elements of Fantasy? Though it varies widely, seven of the books fit this category. ALL THE LOVELY BAD ONES and THE ENTERTAINER AND THE DYBBUK are ghost stories. FIRST LIGHT and GO BIG OR GO HOME are science fiction. DRAGON SLIPPERS and INTO THE WILD are more like fairytales, while FOUND is action/adventure.

5. Problem Novels? Three of the books fit this description: WING NUT, LA LINEA, and RUNAWAY. These are the books that I will long remember because they caused me to think about hard issues and see the world outside my own experiences.

All of the books have great writing in common. Though I enjoyed each and every one, my three favorities are THE MISADVENTURES OF MAUDE MARCH, LA LINEA, and RUNAWAY.

Congratulations to the authors who have a book on the list!

AIRBALL MY LIFE IN BRIEFS by L.D. Harkrader

2010-05-14T07:08:00.000-07:00

The cover art of this middle grade novel first caught my eye. We have three boys with oversized feet, skinny legs, and all wearing funky boxer shorts. I immediately knew this book would make me laugh!

I read an interview with L.D. Harkrader in which she said the inspiration for this story came from The Emperor's New Clothes. How cool is that.

Our protagonist is seventh-grader, Kirby Nickel. Kirby has very little natural athletic ability, but in a small Kansas town, he makes the basketball team anyway. Everyone does.

Coach is determined to turn this no-talent team into champions. He gives them STEALTH SPORTSWEAR, which in reality means the boys are playing in their underwear. But then a strange thing happens: the boys actually play better in their underwear.

This book is humorous and it has heart. Kirby learns a lot about himself as he becomes a decent basketball player. In the end, Kirby finds what he wants most in the world, and most importantly it wants him too.

FIRST LIGHT by Rebecca Stead

2010-05-10T09:34:00.000-07:00

FIRST LIGHT is the debut novel of Newberry Award winning author, Rebecca Stead. The book has elements of fantasy, science fiction, adventure and mystery.

Peter joins his parents on an expedition to Greenland, where his father will study global warming. The trip should be an adventure, but on the ice cap, Peter is troubled with headaches and visions.

Meanwhile Thea has never seen the sun. Her people live deep inside the arctic ice. When Peter and Thea's lives collide, they discover a secret connection between their families. Time is running out for Thea's homeland. The teens need a plan to save the people of Gracehope.

Read more about FIRST LIGHT by clicking here.

PLUG YOUR BOOK! ONLINE BOOK MARKETING FOR AUTHORS By Steve Weber

2010-05-06T13:59:00.000-07:00

Author Steve Weber gives lots of tips for online marketing in PLUG YOUR BOOK. Some that I found particularly helpful include:

1. Find readers in your target audience and give them your book. Ask them to post an honest critique on Amazon.

2. Correspond with readers who enjoyed your book, and ask if they could spare the time to write a review on Amazon.

3. Target specialized magazines and trade publications.

4. Become a "librarything author."

5. Go on a blog tour.

6. Add your book title to your Amazon pen name so that it's displayed when you post reviews.

7. Offer book excerpts or sample chapters PDF download from your website.

8. Use these pointers for writing an effective press release.

9. Auction a single copy of your book on eBay in one or more subject categories.

10. Pursue affiliate sales on websites that specialize in material related to your book.

RUNAWAY by Wendelin Van Draanen

2010-05-03T13:55:00.001-07:00

Twelve-year-old Holly runs away from an abusive foster home and makes her way cross country to California. Her life is a continual struggle to find food and shelter. Holly's story unfolds as she writes in a journal given to her by her teacher. The journal becomes Holly's lifeline - her most precious possession.

Author Wendelin Van Draanen researched this book by sneaking into the cargo hold of a bus, staying in a homeless shelter, and camping in the wilderness without supplies.

This book made me stop and think about the problems faced by runaway teens. Is there a significant homeless population in the place where you live? Have you taken the time to REALLY notice?

HOT, SOUR, SALTY, SWEET by Sherri L. Smith

2010-05-01T06:58:00.000-07:00

The novel HOT, SOUR, SALTY, SWEET all takes place in one day - Ana Shen's eight grade graduation day. Ana is salutatorian of her class and just as she starts her graduation speech, something very unexpected happens and the rest of the ceremoney is canceled. But Ana's problems are just beginning.

Ana's father is Chinese American and her mother is African American. The two sets of grandparents don't get along very well and always compete for Ana's attention. When the whole family takes over the kitchen to cook for Ana's graduation party, it's a recipe for disaster. Especially since her arch rival shows up unexpectedly, the boy she's crushing on comes with his bigoted father, and her grandmothers are ready to slug it out. Still the hot, sour, salty, and sweet meal shows Ana that different flavors and different heritages can blend together perfectly.

TIPS FOR CHOOSING A BOOK TITLE

2010-04-21T12:50:00.000-07:00

Ann Whitford Paul gives great tips for choosing a book title in Chapter 16 of WRITING PICTURE BOOKS.

While not every title will contain all of the characteristics, these tips are a smart place to start in evaluating possible choices. Is your title...

1. Brief

2. Catchy

3. Unique

4. Straightforward

Does it...

5. Express the Mood of the Book

6. Hint at What the Book Is About

7. Create Suspense

8. Give the Artist an Idea for the Cover Illustration

9. Include the Main Character's Name

10. Use a Catchy Line From Your Manuscript

Make sure...

11. The Title Doesn't Give Away the Ending

12. That A Child Can Easily Say It Out Loud (for picture books)

I selected my contest winner using these characteristics. WHEN SARAH WASN'T LOOKING is unique. A quick check of Amazon.com shows me that it hasn't been used before. That's important because I want readers to be able to find my book without searching too hard. WHEN SARAH WASN'T LOOKING also delivers on #'s 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, and 11.

All in all I think it's a great title choice. Thanks to all of my contest participants and to Barbara Krasner who suggested the winning title.

And The Contest Winner Is...

2010-04-20T14:14:00.000-07:00

Barbara Krasner! Barbara suggested the title: WHEN SARAH WASN'T LOOKING. I think readers will immediately want to know what happened when Sarah wasn't looking and keep reading to find out.

The random drawing winner is"theartgirl." Congratulations to both of you and please let me know which book you'd like to receive. Choices are TONIGHT YOU ARE MY BABY by Jeannine Norris, and DOG GONE or BUCK FEVER by Cynthia Chapman Willis. Also please email your shipping information to sdhitch@gmail.com

HELP NAME MY BOOK (Contest)

2010-04-14T12:10:00.000-07:00

Sometimes the right title for a book or magazine article just pops into my head. But not this time. I'm having a problem coming up with the perfect title for my first novel. So I've decided to run a contest to choose the name. Here are the rules:

1. Read about the novel's plot below.

2. Choose your favorite from the titles listed or come up with a completely new title.

3. Post your title choice on my blog.

If somebody comes up with a completely new title and I decide to use it, then I will send you a free copy of either TONIGHT YOU ARE MY BABY by Jeannine Norris or DOG GONE or BUCK FEVER both by Cynthia Chapman Willis. (Your choice)

In addition, I will put the names of everyone who posts on my blog in a hat and select a random winner. I will also send this winner a free copy of either Cindy or Jeannine's books.

Here's the storyline:

Twelve-year-old Sarah Willis is babysitting her five-year-old sister when her sister wanders into the street and is struck by a car. From that point on Sarah wishes for two things: first she wants her sister to be good as new, and though her second wish is impossible, she wishes it with all her heart. Somehow she wishes the accident hadn't been her fault.

Possible titles include:

Inside Beauty

Don't Tell

Keeping Secrets

The Summer Sarah Beth Willis Grew Up

Summer Break

SCHOOLED by Gordon Korman

2010-04-14T06:21:00.000-07:00

The librarians who select the books for the Sunshine State Young Readers Award Program do a fantastic job of picking books that will appeal to middle schoolers. But what impresses me most is the number of great books they choose with male protagonists.

I had never heard of author Gordon Korman, but a quick check at his website tells me that he has published more than 55 books with over seven million copies sold. Mr. Korman has written several series as well as lots of stand alone titles.

I loved reading SCHOOLED and found myself chuckling during most of it. Our protagonist Capricorn (Cap) Anderson grew up on a commune. His hippie grandmother, Rain, homeschools him and he has little contact with the outside world. When Rain falls and breaks her hip, Cap is forced to live with a middle school guidance counselor and attend middle school.

Because of Cap's weirdness, (he's never handled money, watched TV, doesn't own a cell phone, and dresses straight out of the 1960's), he is elected class president as a prank. What follows is both hilarious and heartwarming.

Tip for writers: The book is told from the viewpoints of several different characters. Each chapter starts out like this Name: Capricorn Anderson, Name: Mrs. Donnelly, Name: Hugh Winkleman. It's an effective way to get the inside scoop on all the major characters in this story.

GO BIG OR GO HOME BY WILL HOBBS

2010-03-30T16:29:00.000-07:00

For readers interested in "boy books" let me introduce you to the novels of author Will Hobbs. He's published seventeen of them and I just finished his latest GO BIG OR GO HOME.

The action starts when a meteorite crashes through the roof of Brady's house, tears through his mattress and lands underneath his bed. Brady can't wait to share the excitement with his cousin Quinn.

Quinn comes for a visit and the boys show the rock to a professor at a nearby museum. He wants to study the rock, hoping to prove that there is life on Mars.In the meantime, Brady and Quinn go mountain biking, camping, and caving. The boys are stunned when Brady is suddenly able to perform athletic feats that he's never been able to do before. But Brady also develops symptoms of a terrible illness. He wonders if the meteorite is responsible for both his new athletic abilites and his sickness.

GO BIG OR GO HOME is chock full of action as the boys race to save Brady's life.

LA LINEA BY ANN JARAMILLO

2010-03-27T09:16:00.000-07:00

La Linea is published by Square Fish, an imprint of Macmillan, and edited by Deborah Brodie.

I'm always curious about an author's background and what led him/her to write a particular story. Ms. Jaramillo's husband is a lawyer who focuses on helping migrant workers, and Ms. Jaramillo is a teacher with students of Mexican origin. She says, "La Linea is fiction, but it is based on real events."

Of course I've watched lots of news reports about Mexicans crossing the border illegally, but until reading this book, I didn't realize the grave danger they face to do so. When fifteen-year-old Miguel and his sister leave Mexico, they are robbed, cling to the roof of a train, trek across the desert, and traumatized when their guide is shot by vigilantes. I'm disturbed that this story is based on actual events.

Ms. Jaramillo includes lots of facts about illegal immigration at the end of her book. Many immigrants lose their lives trying to cross the border. They die from dehydration, hypothermia and violence. Still the number of undocumented people in the United States is estimated to be over 10 million.

Kirkus Reviews calls La Linea, "A nail-biting real-life adventure." I agree and it's thought provoking as well.

Carolyn Yoder's Alumni Retreat

2010-03-10T13:45:00.000-08:00

For the past three winters, I've attended Carolyn Yoder's alumni retreat at Boyds Mill. That's me standing in front of my cabin...the perfect place to write when snow is coming down.

I've learned so much from Carolyn, especially about historical picture books. We worked together on a manuscript, HENRIETTA'S PASTEL TREASURES, about the first professional female artist in the American colonies. Prior to working with Carolyn, I'd been told that it read like a magazine piece. Here's how Carolyn helped me turn it into a picture book.

1. Picture books have rhythm when read aloud. I read my manuscript over and over, cutting excess words until I found the beat.

2. Picture book are written in scenes. I took scissors and cut my manuscript into distinct scenes, making sure that each spread gave the illustrator something to draw.

3. Lots of picture books come full circle. I worked on my last spread so that the ending was reminiscent of the beginning.

4. I wrote it again and again and again. Great writing is all about revising.

What makes the Highlights Foundation Workshops so special is the amount of individual attention given to each writer -- that's why I'm a regular.

GABRIEL'S HORSES by Alison Hart

2010-03-10T12:29:00.000-08:00

I love historical fiction and always turn to the back matter first, hoping to learn from the author's process. Alison Hart says in her bibliographical note that to research and write GABRIEL'S HORSES, she read more than two hundred books. The novel also contains a wonderful section on the actual history behind the story.

GABRIEL'S HORSES is set in 1864, and Gabriel is a slave boy, born to a free black father and a slave mother. His father, Issac, is one of the best horse trainers in Kentucky, and that's what Gabriel wants to do when he grows up.

The war complicates Gabriel's life because Confederate raiders are terrorizing local farms, especially looking for thoroughbred horses. To make matters even worse, Gabriel's father joins the Union army, and is replaced by a cruel horse trainer. Now Gabriel must find a way to keep the beloved horses safe, not only from the raiders, but from his white boss.

I would recommend GABRIEL'S HORSES to animal lovers, Civil War buffs, and readers interested in African American stories. The book is part of a trilogy and the other two are GABRIEL'S TRIUMPH and GABRIEL'S JOURNEY.

ALL THE LOVELY BAD ONES by Mary Downing Hahn

2010-02-18T14:27:00.000-08:00

The New York Times Book Review says, "Spooky...A fine scary tale for a campfire." That is a perfect description of ALL THE LOVELY BAD ONES.

The book reminds me of a Barbara Michaels' novel, but for middle graders. There's no gross horror like a "Friday The Thirteenth." Instead it's creepy with supernatural elements.

When Travis and his sister are banned from camp, they're sent to spend the summer with their grandmother. She runs a Vermont Inn that has a history of ghost sightings. Travis and Corey decide to stir up some mischief, and the pair of them get WAY more than they bargained for.

A Tip for Writers: Study the voice of the ghosts, particularly Seth. The author does a brilliant job with characterization.

Richard Peck and Me (Part 2)

2010-02-13T06:36:00.000-08:00

I was ecstatic when I discovered that Richard Peck would be critiquing my manuscript at SCBWI Miami. Several people asked me if I was nervous. But no, I never was. I knew Richard Peck had been a teacher, and in my experience teachers are generous with students who genuinely seek to learn.

I walked into my critique carrying his latest novel, A SEASON OF GIFTS, so that I could get it signed. He had "rock star" status at the conference, and his line was always too long during breaks.

"Finally we meet," he says. Be still my heart! I love his voice. He hands me a two-page typed critique. He likes my work. He REALLY likes it.

It helps that I have written a novel set in the 1920's. His written critique says, "Moreover, your subject matter is my own favorite: rustic nostalgia (with an edge) to reveal a little history to a generation not learning any at school."

Since Mr. Peck had only read the first ten pages, he asked me to walk him through the rest of the plot. My novel had a midwife and a second older woman called Cousin Rachel. He told me those two characters sounded remarkably similar. He asked me if they could be combined. I stopped and thought about it for a moment. "Yes,!" I said. "Yes, that is absolutely brilliant!" I have since combined those characters, and it makes a huge difference in the novel.

He asked me to justify why my character had two sisters. Would one sister suffice? In this case, I needed two sisters for the plot, but he asked me to think through my cast of characters, to make sure each one was vital to the story I was telling.

I told him that my character would have a choice to make: whether to stay on her family farm or make her way into the world. My character is head-over-heels in love with her farm boy so I thought she would probably stay. Mr. Peck points his finger at me, "She must go!" he says in that wonderfully deep voice. And that's when I knew exactly how my book would end.

My critique with Richard Peck was a crash course in plotting a novel. I've been critiqued many, many times, but I've never before had a session as productive as that one. My fifteen minutes with him exceeded all of my expectations. He truly is a great teacher.

First Page Wisdom From Richard Peck, Kathleen Duey, and Jen Rofe SCBWI Miami

2010-02-06T11:30:00.000-08:00

Richard Peck talked about the importance of a great opening line. Consider this from his book THE TEACHER'S FUNERAL: "If your teacher has to die, August isn't a bad time of year for it." That line is definitely memorable and makes the reader ponder what's coming next. Mr. Peck said he goes to the bookstore about once a month and writes down the opening lines from books he admires.

Kathleen Duey spoke of the importance of the first page and said she frequently rewrites the first page about twenty times.

In the novel intensive workshop, Jen Rofe read my first page out loud. She said it needed a stronger opening line, it could be tightened, the character's voice could come through more strongly.

I took Richard Peck's advice. I copied down lots of great opening lines from other books. I took Kathleen Duey's advice. I rewrote my first page about twenty times. I literally spent a whole day just working on the first two pages. Here's my take away: Peck, Duey, and Rofe dropped pearls of wisdom. My opening is much stronger from following their advice.

Give these pearls of wisdom a try. I'd be interested in hearing if they work for you too.

Finding Your Voice: Tips from Peck, Duey, Santopolo SCBWI Miami

2010-01-30T14:27:00.000-08:00

For Kathleen Duey it's all about finding the right voice for the book. She shared that her voice varies widely.

Richard Peck told conference participants to go to real life for voice, that voice comes from listening. He said he has "reached the age of invisibility." That he can eavesdrop in mall foodcourts without teenagers even noticing.

Jill Santopolo used Barbie as a metaphor for voice. A naked Barbie is your authorial voice. Now consider dressing her as Malibu Barbie. Malibu Barbie will sound differently than Teacher Barbie or Nurse Barbie.

Ms. Santopolo said Junie B. Jones is the "gold standard" for voice in chapter books.

Writing Tips From Kathleen Duey SCBWI Miami

2010-01-24T13:39:00.000-08:00

1. Find the right voice for the book. Kathleen's voice varies widely.

2. When plotting don't ask what happens next. Aask what would my protagonist do next.

3. The first few pages of a novel are the hardest. Kathleen rewrites many of her first pages about 20 times.

4. You can turn any reader into a critiquer with these three letters: B, C, D. Ask your readers to mark any places in the manuscript where they become bored, confused, or don't believe it with the corresponding letter.

5. Sometimes bringing the unexpected character to the plot makes a manuscript stronger. (e.g. the beautiful cheerleader who tries to commit suicide.)

6. When you have a good writing day, figure out why so that you can duplicate it.

7. Gag your inner parent!

8. When plotting make sure the stakes are high enough.

9. To make a novel really interesting have your character choose between two good choices or two bad choices.

10. There is no substitute for butt in chair!

ROADBLOCKS TO PUBLICATION

2010-01-13T12:49:00.000-08:00

On Friday, I'll be participating in a "novel intensive" workshop led by Jen Rofe and Kathleen Duey. We have a homework assignment to "write a short description of what our major roadblock is, any aspect of craft, process, artistic process, time management, any fears, whatever..."

This caused me to ponder my roadblocks. At first I was going to put creativity. I always think other writers are more creative than I am. But then I read an interview with Elizabeth Gilbert, (author of EAT, PRAY, LOVE), and she said that she's not terribly creative either. In her opinion hard work trumps creativity. Now there's a novel thought. Could I possibly need to work even harder?

Next I considered that writing poetic prose is one of my weaknesses. I read writers like Jacqueline Woodson and think "if I could only write like that." But I'm not supposed to sound like a cheap imitation of another writer. Could I possibly strive even harder to capture my authentic voice?

There's also the fact that I tend to write historical fiction in a market that seems to prefer contemporary stories. But there's still room for excellent historical fiction, look at WHEN THE WHISTLE BLOWS by Fran Cannon Slayton.

I'm left with no roadblocks, only a goal: to work even more diligently, and BELIEVE.

RICHARD PECK and ME!

2010-01-05T05:05:00.000-08:00

All writers have them. Those authors we admire and strive to emulate. Lots of the usual suspects are on my list: Deborah Wiles, Karen Cushman, Deborah Hopkinson, Kate DiCamillo, Karen Hesse, Laurie Halse Anderson, and Richard Peck.

This past summer I had the opportunity to attend the national SCBWI Conference in Los Angeles. Richard Peck gave one of the keynote speeches, and I was enthralled. He has a wonderfully deep voice, the kind that is perfectly suited to a storyteller. As I listened to him weave his magic, I whispered to my friend, "I'd listen to this man read the phone book." Yes, he really is that good.

Last night an email popped up notifying me about my critique session for the Florida SCBWI Conference in Miami. Richard Peck is my assigned critiquer! I have a date with Richard Peck. Granted, it's only fifteen minutes, but it's destined to be one of those special memories that I dust off when rejection letters fill my mailbox.

Forget winning a date with Tad Hamilton. I'll take Richard Peck any day!

DRAGON SLIPPERS by Jessica Day George

2010-01-03T07:02:00.000-08:00

Never underestimate the power of a great opening line. DRAGON SLIPPERS starts like this, "It was my aunt who decided to give me to the dragon." I was immediately hooked. Who was this girl? Why did her aunt give her to a dragon?

DRAGON SLIPPERS has the feel of a fairy tale, but our heroine is no Sleeping Beauty. What I liked best about Creel is that she's frequently petrified, but finds the courage to confront danger anyway. She says, "I would rather die tonight trying to help my friends, than stand by tomorrow..."

I loved the talking dragons, each with a distinct personality, and the story has just enough romance to add a bit of spice.

The sequel is called DRAGON FLIGHT, and the first chapter is printed at the end.

FOUND by Margaret Peterson Haddix

2009-12-17T12:06:00.000-08:00

If you find yourself contemplating writing a series, then I recommend reading FOUND with a writer's eye. Ms. Peterson starts with a Prologue: An airline employee finds an airplane full of babies, and then the airplane vanishes. The employee is told to never speak of what happened again.

The story picks up thirteen years later, with friends Chip and Jonah. Both are adopted, and each of them receives a mysterious letter. It says, YOU ARE ONE OF THE MISSING. See the series potential? Ms. Peterson can create a story for each child that was on the plane.

Chip and Jonah set out to solve the mystery, aided by Jonah's sister, Katherine. They discover a vast conspiracy that involves time travel. School Library Journal says, "Haddix's latest science fiction series starts off with a bang in this nail-biter...It will leave readers on the edge of their seats and begging for more."

On the very last page of FOUND, the kids find themselves transported to the fifteenth century. Luckily, the publisher whets our appetites, and provides a sneak peek at the next book in the series. It's called, THE MISSING, BOOK 2, SENT.

My Horoscope Preview for 2010

2009-12-16T03:42:00.000-08:00

I'm a Pisces girl, and since I LOVE this horoscope, I've decided to believe it! 2010 will be my year for an agent and a book contract!

Learning to Trust Your Inner Self

Your 2010 might not be about luxury and lounging, Pisces, but your career ambitions will finally amp up to the point of seeing real rewards. The presence of four planets in ambitious and hardworking Capricorn, forming a very positive connection with your sign, strongly indicate that your time for success may have come! Though the reason isn’t clear, frustration could set in around the time of the Summer Solstice. You should bounce back by early July, when the Moon is passing through your sign and trining the Sun and Mercury in Cancer. The day of the Fall Equinox will greatly enhance your love life, and by the Winter Solstice, you should have come full circle.

A Christmas Book

2009-12-11T08:47:00.001-08:00

Up until now, everything on my blog has been related to middle grade. But my dear friend and critique partner, Jeannine Norris, has a Christmas picture book, and tis the season for gift buying!

What makes this book unique is that it's told from Mary's viewpoint about the night Jesus was born.

I kiss your tiny fingers and little perfect head,

Lay you in the manger that tonight will be your bed.

The book is beautifully illustrated by Tim Ladwig, and has a refrain that children will repeat:

Tomorrow you will be king, But tonight you are my baby.

Interview With MG Novelist Nancy Viau

2009-12-02T13:17:00.000-08:00

New Jersey author Nancy Viau got her start writing for such children’s magazines as Highlights for Children, Highlights High Five, and Ladybug. In the fall of 2008, Nancy made the leap from magazine writer to novelist with the debut of SAMANTHA HANSEN HAS ROCKS IN HER HEAD.

Nancy, please tell us a about your middle-grade novel.

Samantha Hansen is a ten-year-old mad scientist, but she doesn’t blow up stuff or change kids into cats that bark. She just has a little trouble keeping a lid on her temper, and she loves science (especially rocks). Her family is planning a “dream-come-true” trip, so Sam works hard to stay in control and out of trouble. It isn’t easy for this fourth-grader because she has to deal with a bossy sister, a mom who’s obsessed with birthdays, and the school bully.

What inspired you to write this story?

I thought that a book with a character who struggles with anger would give kids a chance to see that anger is part of growing up. I had the idea to add the science element and the list-making because Sam not only needed something she could excel in, she needed an outlet for ordering her chaotic world.

How did your experience with magazines help you as a novelist?

Writing for the magazine market gave me the opportunity to experiment with different types of poetry and prose. I learned what I liked best and what was the best fit for my voice. But I tired of writing according to a specific style, a wish list, or word count. It wasn’t until I freed myself from those things, and focused on my own goals, that the novel started to take shape.

Would you recommend other aspiring writers start first with magazines?

It’s a good place to “get your feet wet,” and earn some publishing credits, but your accomplishments may mean nothing to a book editor or agent. If you enjoy magazine writing, that’s another story. If it’s your dream to write a book, write the darn book.

Sam’s rock collection is a fun part of your book. Did writing about rocks require lots of research? Or have you always had an interest in them?

I had weird rock facts stored in my head from when I was a teacher, and I did a little research to make sure my muddled brain hadn’t mixed up anything. I’ve always had a passion for science—rocks, weather, planets—you name it, so it seemed natural for me to to add science to my story.

What are the advantages of being part of a group like the Class of 2k8?

The Class of 2k8 was made up of some very talented women. And their talents extended far beyond their fabulous writing. Each author had a strength, and based on those strengths we divided ourselves into committees such as Executive, Web Presence, Video, Blog, Public Relations, Print Materials, Special Events, and Guerilla Marketing. It was almost like you had a personal assistant at your fingertips. (Hey, can somebody explain how to do a press release? What's viral marketing? Where can I get inexpensive bookmarks? Who can write up a conference proposal?) That was the biggest advantage—knowing that another 2k8-er would either have an answer, help you research the answer, or actually do it for you! We were all debut children's book authors willing to work countless hours. That was the glue that held us together and allowed us to succeed in marketing our books despite the tightened budgets of our publishers.

From your Web site readers can click on “Where’s Nancy?” and see a list of your appearances. You’ve been a busy lady promoting Samantha Hansen. How did you line up those appearances?

Months before the book came out I began promoting it on www.NancyViau.com. Early on, when I signed ARCs, I handed out a bookmark with my site on it. In fact, I handed out bookmarks to everybody! It didn't matter if I was doing a free writing workshop, signing books at a bookseller or a festival, or even chatting with the local Mom's Club. If you get people curious about your book (or better yet, if they've read it and loved it), and you project a fun and energetic personality, they will tell other people about you, and you'll soon get asked to another event. But they'll check out your Web site first! Ninety percent of the things I've set up have come about because someone has emailed me from my site, asking about my availability. Oh, and I have never turned anybody down, despite crazy scheduling conflicts (on my part) and lack of funds (on theirs).

You have a tremendous Internet presence. Tell us about the on-line avenues you’ve used to promote your work.

My favorites include:
My Web site: http://www.nancyviau.com/
My blog: http://nancy-v.livejournal.com/
Facebook
MySpace
Book Tour
Goodreads
Jacketflap
Verla Kay Children’s Writers and Illustrators Message Board
Online interviews and reviewers
Online contests and giveaways.

What tips do you have for aspiring novelists?

Read a ton of books! Read the blogs and Web sites of authors, agents, and editors. Attend conferences, network (speak up!), and take writing workshops. Set goals, focus, and be part of a critique group made up of members who aren’t afraid to do line-by-line crits. Be persistent, persevere, and practice. Oh, and give in to the hard times (getting through them will make you a better writer), but never give up.

Since this interview was written, Nancy has signed with Joanna Stampfel Volpe of Nancy Coffey Literary. Stay tuned to Nancy's blog for news of her new picture book.

Counting My "Writerly" Blessings

2009-11-27T05:59:00.000-08:00

It would be easy to moan about all the things that I hoped to accomplish this year that didn't quite materialize. Instead here's my top ten "writerly" blessings.

1. Children's Magazines - Without the guidance of editors like Patty McIntyre, Marileta Robinson and Deborah Vetter, I would have never been published.

2. Florida SCBWI - Through my local chapter, I've connected with a critique group and learned to write a novel. (Thank you Joyce Sweeney!)

3. National SCBWI - For the first time, I attended the national conference in Los Angeles. I enjoyed seeing old friends and made some new ones too.

4. Sue Alexander New Voices Award - I was nominated this year, and it's the first time I've ever received that kind of recognition for my writing.

5. Highlights Foundation Workshops - I attended a week-long retreat hosted by Carolyn Yoder. All I can say is if you ever have the chance, run, don't walk to apply.

6. Novels - My picture book manuscripts weren't selling. This led me to try writing a novel. I completed my first novel this year and am deeply immersed in a second one.

7. Friends - Cynthia Chapman Willis and Jeannine Norris are the best writing buddies a girl could wish for. They cheer at my successes and commiserate when I fail.

8. Social Networking - I've connected with other writers through Facebook and my classmates from high school too.

9. Tutoring - I volunteer as a writing tutor on Tuesday nights and I've received more blessings from Romello than I could possibly give back to him.

10. Family - I've saved the most important for last. Thanks to my husband and son for understanding about my writing! You guys are the best.

What about you? What "writerly" blessings came your way this year?

The Entertainer and the Dybbuk by Sid Fleischman

2009-11-14T07:33:00.000-08:00

I enjoy reading authors who build a wonderful story with minimum words. Author Sid Fleischman has that uncanny ability to make every word count.

In this story, Avrom Amos was killed by the Nazis before his bar mitzvah. He becomes a Jewish ghost and decides to possess the body of a young ventriloquist named Freddie.

Sid Fleischman doesn't shy away from the horrors of the Holocaust, but he presents the facts in a unique and clever way...through the mouth of a ventiloquist's dummy.

THE ENTERTAINER AND THE DYBBUK is fast-paced, with a satisfying ending. Fans of historical fiction will love this book.

INTO THE WILD by Sarah Beth Durst

2009-11-07T14:51:00.000-08:00

The traditional fairytale characters have escaped from their stories and are living in Northboro Massachusetts. Their forest (aka "the wild") is being contained underneath Julie's bed.

The characters live in dread of being sucked back into their stories, and living the same tale over and over. But when "the Wild" escapes and takes over the town, it's up to Julie to save the day.

INTO THE WILD has some clever plot devices. I enjoyed how the author blends fairytales with real life landmarks in Massachusetts. I was also intrigued by how she melds the fairytale characters into present day, (e.g. Rapunzel runnning a hair salon).

Though I prefer more romance in the fantasy books that I read, I still enjoyed this book. There's a sequel called OUT OF THE WILD, and the author has a new book called ICE published by Simon and Schuster.

Have you read any of the books by Sarah Beth Durst? Which was your favorite?

Interview With Elizabeth Stow Ellison Author of FLIGHT

2009-10-31T11:38:00.000-07:00

Eighth grade teacher, Elizabeth Stow Ellison, describes the publication of her first novel, Flight, as, “my dream come true.”

Elizabeth, I think many aspiring writers can relate to your dream. How did you make it a reality?

My first step toward making my dream a reality was to take writing classes. I think writers need to take advantage of every opportunity to learn about writing. I had the wonderful fortune of being able to focus on fiction writing when I was working on my MA in English at Cal State Fullerton and when I completed the program, I joined the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators. (SCBWI) At this point I had completed my first manuscript and I wanted to try to get it published. SCBWI is an excellent resource! I heard Steven Chudney, a literary agent (The Chudney Agency) speak at a one-day conference in Diamond Bar, CA, and wrote him a query letter. He asked to see my work and took me on as a client. Steven is a wonderful agent, and I really believe that in addition to years of hard work, I was at the right place at the right time to make the connections I needed to make in order to achieve my dream.

Please tell us about your novel.

I’m terrible at writing about my book! But here goes.
Flight explores what it’s like to be illiterate in a literate world. It tells the story of a family unable to face this challenge head on for a variety of reasons. Evan can’t read. It’s a secret he’s managed to keep – sort of – thanks to the power of denial. His teachers have expressed their concerns every step of the way, but fearful that recognizing Evan’s learning disabilities would be a negative reflection on them, his parents refuse to allow him to be tested. They maintain that if he had a better attitude and tried harder, he could be successful like his older brother Andy. When the novel opens, Evan is a freshman in high school. The strain of coping is intensifying and his increasingly rebellious antics are getting him in more and more trouble. Evan’s twelve-year-old sister Samantha tells the story. She adores her older brother and knows that he needs help. Evan’s one strength is his artistic ability. With the help of a confidant named Mrs. Brewster, Samantha encourages Evan to enter an art contest. He enters a drawing of three owls he sees fly overhead at night in the woods behind their house. He names the drawing Flight and this becomes the message in the book. In order to truly overcome his challenges, Evan must take flight in his life. He needs to be an advocate for himself and seek the solutions that will help him succeed.

Your book movingly portrays a family struggling with illiteracy. What inspired you to tell this story?

There are many things that inspired me to write this story. First of all, I struggled a lot as I learned to read. While my difficulties never led to being diagnosed with a learning disability, I do remember having to really work hard to make my way through long pages of text. In fourth grade, our teacher used the program called SRA. This is a comprehension and vocabulary development program. As students complete activities, they progress through a series of levels indicated by color. Of course the beginning level was indicated by brown and the highest level was indicated by gold. To track our progress, our teacher created an outer space themed bulletin board (It was 1980, so we were all excited about the Space Shuttle.). We each had rockets that sat at the bottom of the board on the brown ground. As we progressed through the levels our rockets moved up into outer space. Needless to say, my rocket stayed on the ground all year! I felt dumb each time my classmates got to run over and move their rockets higher on the board. It’s a horrible feeling. As a teacher I try to be very sensitive to my students’ feelings. I have seen a number of students who have learning disabilities. They desperately want to be successful. It’s hard to meet with parents and have to explain to them that their child has a learning disability. It isn’t anyone’s fault, but people must realize that we have to work together for the best of the student.

I love the imagery of flight, and your message that people can take flight from whatever is holding them back in their lives. How have those themes touched your readers?

That’s a great question. I was pleased with my development of that idea. I’ve had a number of students tell me that they have been inspired to enter art contests and such. One student, who struggles with a learning disability, wrote me a very touching letter about how he appreciated being able to relate to a character like Evan. He felt empowered to face his challenges.

There’s a very cool picture of Stonehenge on your website. How has travel enriched you as a writer?

I think that traveling gives me a chance to observe people in a variety of settings. I like to watch how people interact with each other. I think it’s valuable to move out of one’s comfort zone and experience life in all kinds of places.

Describe the part SCBWI has played in your success.

SCBWI has played a major role in my success. Thanks to the conferences they provide, I have been able to learn so much and grow as a writer. I was able to connect with my agent, Steven Chudney.

Holiday House published your novel. What knowledge can you share with us about this publisher?

When Flight was accepted at Holiday House, they sent me the book, Holiday House The First Sixty-Five Years written by Russell Freedman and Barbara Elleman. It’s a lovely book that outlines the history of Holiday House. I learned that Holiday House was founded in 1935 at a time when people said it would be impossible to start a publishing house due to the Great Depression. It was the first American publisher dedicated to producing only children’s books. I actually had the chance to visit Holiday House, and I was struck by how much everyone loves their work. Their offices felt like a cozy, inviting children’s library where each book is cherished.

How are you promoting your book?

That has been quite a learning experience. My first step was to have a website designed. I have worked with Linda Kaufman on that. She is an excellent web designer. I have done a few book signings at which I hand out bookmarks and little jawbreakers. (If you’ve read Flight you’ll appreciate that.) I have worked very hard to do as many school visits as possible. Initially I sent out a mailer announcing the publication of Flight. I flew up to Orinda, where the novel is set and worked hard to promote it there, with a book signing and a school visit. Basically, I have spent more than my advance on publication.

What has been your most memorable experience as a first-time author?

I would have to say that my most memorable experiences have been times when I’ve walked into a bookstore or library and found Flight sitting on the shelf. Yes, I do take pictures with my cell phone.

What are you working on now?

I am currently working on a novel called Rabbit Moon. I have written it a number of times and I am currently working on another revision. I am grateful that Steven Chudney is so patient and supportive. I have also had the pleasure of doing some online critique work with Cindy Willis. Her feedback has been very helpful. I know that one day I’ll get Rabbit Moon out there.
Eighth grade teacher, Elizabeth Stow Ellison, describes the publication of her first novel, Flight, as, “my dream come true.”

And finally, I just gotta ask, how did you start collecting antique toasters?

Oh yay! Finally someone is asking about my toaster collection. I bought my first toaster about twelve years ago. I think I’m up to eleven. I have a knack for hunting them down in antique stores, which is part of the fun. When I saw my first one, I was struck by the design. They can be quite fancy with elaborate designs, and I like how they operate. To toast bread, you open the sides and set the bread inside. I suppose you would have to watch carefully and turn the bread over to toast the other side. Then there is a little shelf on top where you can stack toasted pieces to keep warm. Each one is unique in its own way.

Congratulations to Cindy Willis on BUCK FEVER Release!!

2009-10-28T06:09:00.000-07:00

The bookjacket says, "Live and Let Live? Twelve-year-old Joey MacTagert's dad wants his son to carry on the family tradition of hunting. But Joey has 'buck fever' --he can't pull the trigger on a deer, and hates the idea of killing animals. He's more interested in art and hockey, two activities that his dad barely acknowledges.

Joey's dad wants him to use his special skill in tracking to hunt down the big buck that roams the woods near their home. Joey knows how to track Old Buck, but has kept secret from his father the reason he's gained the deer's trust. When trouble between his parents seems to escalate, Joey and his older sister, Philly, find themselves in the middle of tensions they don't fully understand. Joey want to keep the peace, and if conquering his buck fever will do it, he has to try.

This powerful story about being true to oneself will resonate with readers who are inspired by stories about family, friendship, and our delicate relationship with the natural world."

I've read this book, and though I'm scared to death of guns and have zero interest in hunting, I still loved it. The characterization is rich and true, and the climactic scene had my heart pounding.

What's Your Favorite Genre?

2009-10-24T12:36:00.000-07:00

Okay, I admit it, I am not into fantasy or science fiction. My favorite books are historical fiction, or a contemporary story with so much heart that it makes me cry. That being said, the third book on the SUNSHINE STATE YOUNG READERS AWARD PROGRAM is a fantasy called INTO THE WILD by Sarah Beth Durst. THE SSYRA list contains books of every genre and it challenges me to read books that I might not otherwise pick up.

This is from the back of the book:

"Come with Julie as she ventures deep into the Wild on a magical and unforgettable journey to save her family. The fairy-tale world of the Wild is a place full of wicked witches, hungry wolves, and totally cute princes. But when the Wild takes over Julie's town and kidnaps her mom Rapunzel, brother Puss-in-Boots, and her real-life witch of a grandma, Julie must do everything in her power to save them-and herself-before it's too late."

I found a quote from Sarah Beth Durst that said, "Basically, if a story doesn't have a talking cat, I'm not interested." Since my tastes are polar opposite from that, it will be interesting to see what I think about this book.

In the meantime, check out this totally cool article about INTO THE WILD:

Reading For The Fun Of It

2009-10-21T16:28:00.000-07:00

Kirkus Reviews wrote about THE MISADVENTURES OF MAUDE MARCH, "What a pleasure to read something just for the sheer fun of the storytelling."

So what made Maude March fun? First of all, it's the way the author handles tragedy. Maude and Sally are orphaned when their aunt is hit by a stray bullet. The way out of their predicament seems to be for Maude to marry an old coot old enough to be her grandpa. But Maude is having none of it. Little sister Sally tells us, "I was sorry to have to be the one to say it, but Maude didn't have all that many charms. Not the kind men are said to go for." What follows is a hilarious description of stick thin Maude.

Author Audrey Couloumbis also makes effective use of potty humor. The girls run away with Sally riding Goldie the pooting pony. "'That horse has a digestive problem,' Maude said, showing some delicacy."

And then adventure kicks in. Through no fault of their own, the girls take up with an outlaw, stumble into a bank robbery, and are involved in a shootout. All the while, Sallie who is a fan of western adventure novels called "dimers" remembers some tidbit from the books to save them from disaster.

Then the newspapers get hold of the story about Maude March, and reporters embellish the truth until Maude is almost as famous as Jesse James. The newspaper stories are laugh out loud funny because they are gross exaggerations of what really happened.

Sally said of her sister Maude, "She does grow on you." And Sally is right. I enjoyed Maude March, and plan to read the sequel.

NAME THAT CHARACTER

2009-10-17T12:24:00.000-07:00

It can be a struggle to come up with the perfect character name. I’ve resorted to baby name books, census records, and high school year books. When reading THE MISADVENTURES OF MAUDE MARCH by Audrey Couloumbis, I was struck by the name Maude March. It seemed to fit the character like a glove. I discovered that Ms. Couloumbis found the name on a tombstone. Check out this video

I'm starting my second novel, and have lots of characters to name. Fall is in the air, with Halloween just around the corner. It seems the perfect time for a graveyard stroll!

THE MISADVENTURES OF MAUDE MARCH BY AUDREY COULOUMBIS

2009-10-08T11:44:00.000-07:00

The MISADVENTURES OF MAUDE MARCH is the second book on the Sunshine State Young Readers Award Program.

This is from the book jacket:

"Eleven-year-old Sallie March is a whip-smart tomboy and voracious reader of Western adventure novels. When she and her sister Maude are orphaned for the second time, they decide to escape their self-serving guardians for the wilds of the frontier and an adventure the likes of which Sallie has only read about. This time, however, the "wanted woman" isn't a dime-novel villain, it's Sallie's very own sister! What follows is the rollicking, edge-of-your-seat story of what really happened out there on the range. Not the lies the papers printed, but the honest-to-goodness truth of how things went from bad to worse and how two sisters went from being orphans to being outlaws--and lived to tell the tale!"

This book had many laugh out loud moments. One of the goals of the state reading program is to encourage kids to read for enjoyment. This book fits the bill, and has lots of historical facts about the "Wild West" sprinkled throughout. But honestly, what makes this book special are the characters of Sallie and Maude. You can't help but love 'em, and anticipate their next rootin', tootin' adventure!

Brett's Ride for Rhabo (slightly off topic)

2009-10-05T05:32:00.000-07:00

This weekend I attended Brett's Ride for Rhabdo in Hickory, North Carolina. The ride is in memory of my nephew, who died from rhabdomyosarcoma when he was twenty years old. Proceeds from the ride are donated to Brenner Children's Hospital in Winston-Salem, and to Levine Children's Hospital in Charlotte.

The ride is in its sixth year, and I've attended them all. Every year, I learn something new about Brett. Yesterday, my father-in-law introduced me to the man who had been Brett's favorite teacher in high school. This history teacher told me about how Brett was taking four AP classes senior year. He said that would be a heavy load even for a healthy kid. But Brett missed class most Friday's because he was undergoing chemo. Still, that year Brett moved from number two to number one in academic standing, and graduated as valedictorian of his class.

Brett's intelligence always impressed me, but his fighting spirit is what I remember most. A minister once said to me, It's not the number of years we live that counts, but what we do with the years given us." That's why I attend Brett's Ride. It lessens the sadness to look around and remember that Brett's was a life well lived.

Theme's The Thing

2009-09-30T09:46:00.000-07:00

Of course, I read for enjoyment, but I also read with a writer's eye. My favorite middle grade novels tell a compelling story, with a theme so expertly woven in, it's like adding the perfect spice to a hearty stew. In WING NUT by MJ Auch, birds, called purple martins, return to their homes year after year. The birds are in contrast to our protagonist, twelve-year-old Grady Flood who is homeless.

"These martins will go through a lot to get here," Charlie said. "I guess home is a pretty powerful magnet."

Those words hit Grady right in the gut. "I wouldn't know about that. I never really had a home."

The importance of this theme, enriches MJ Auch's novel, and subtly conveys a message about the need to belong. In my opinion, a strong theme is an inherent reason that books are selected for state reading lists, and a critical part of crafting a middle grade novel.

What's Your Inspiration?

2009-09-30T09:38:00.000-07:00

As a writer, I'm always intrigued by where other writers find their inspiration. In the book, WING NUT, MJ Auch writes about the migratory pattern of purple martins. Our protagonist, twelve-year-old Grady Flood, watches for the birds to land in rural Pennsylvania. He helps ready gourds, in which the birds will make their nests.

Searching the acknowledgments, I found out there's a Purple Martin Conservation Association, and a magazine called Purple Martin Update. But, the most intriguing thing I discovered, is that MJ Auch is starting a purple martin colony of her own!

In my recently completed MG novel, the inspiration came from an accident that happened to my sister. She was struck by a car and spent the summer trapped in a body cast.

What's your inspiration? It's one of my favorite questions, and I'd love to know your story!

WING NUT by MJ Auch

2009-09-30T09:19:00.000-07:00

The first book on The Florida Sunshine list is WING NUT. This is from the bookjacket:

Grady couldn't help smiling about the name--wing nut. That was the perfect description of Charlie Fernwald and his crazy attraction to birds.

Twelve-year-old Grady Flood and his mom, Lila, have been on the road ever since Grady's dad died seven years ago. When their old car breaks down, they find themselves stranded in rural Pennsylvania where Lila gets work as a cook and caretaker. There's nothing out of the ordinary in that, unless you factor in her new boss. Old Charlie Fernwald, a skilled mechanic and bird enthusiast, is definitely out of the ordinary. In fact, if Grady's not mistaken, Charlie is a certifiable "Wing Nut." For the time being, Grad figures, he can help Charlie with his birds and maybe even learn how to fix a car engine. But before he can do either, something goes terribly wrong.

I just finished this book, and I highly recommend it. In my opinion, the book is on the state list because:

1. It's a great story.

2. The book has something to say about protecting wildlife, and the dangers of introducing non-native anmals into a new environment.

3. The protagonist is not from a traditional family, and many children can relate to that.

4. The book has a hopeful ending.

If you're intrigued enough to read WING NUT, I'd love to hear your opinion. I will be posting more about the book and its author.

I'm Shannon...Who Makes Up The Band?

2009-09-30T09:15:00.000-07:00

At the moment, it's just me, but I hope to post information that will be useful to librarians and students, who are participating in the Sunshine State Young Readers Award program. I plan to research the Sunshine authors, and post a profile of each of them. Maybe...I can even entice some of them to be interviewed.

So, teachers, students, librarians, and lovers of middle grade fiction, grab an instrument, join the band!

What Will Our MG Book Club Read?

2009-09-30T09:07:00.000-07:00

Our book club follows the Sunshine State Young Reader's book list. This Florida statewide program was, "designed to entice students to read high interest, contemporary literature for personal enjoyment." I love hearing which books the students like, which ones weren't so enjoyable, and WHY. Coming up will be:

1. Wing Nut by M.J. Auch
2. The Misadventures of Maude March by Audrey Couloumbis
3. Into The Wild by Sarah Beth Durst
4. The Entertainer and the Dybbuk by Sid Fleischman
5. Dragon Slippers by Jessica Day George
6. Found by Margaret Peterson Haddix
7. All the Lovely Bad Ones by Mary Downing Hahn
8. Airball: My Life in Briefs by Lisa Harkrader
9. Gabriel's Horses by Alison Hart
10. Go Big or Go Home by Will Hobbs
11. La Linea by Ann Jaramillo
12. Schooled by Gordon Korman
13. Hot, Sour, Salty, Sweet by Sherri L. Smith
14. First Light by Rebecca Stead
15. Runaway by Wendy Van Draanen