Hello, amazing readers!

Welcome back at the Oasis ― it's great to have you visit! If this is your first time reading this blog, I hope you'll be coming back often! This is the place to refresh your spirits, recharge your creativity, and get a literary mood boost!

Now, stretch your smiles wide and get comfy and cozy for a lovely chitchat because today we have another lovely creative on the KidLit Oasis series... Children's author  Claire Annette Noland is here to share some wisdom, insight, and inspiration with us! Plus, check out the book giveaway at the end of this interview and enter for a chance to win a copy of Claire's new book, Evie's Field Day.

Welcome, Claire! Thank you for joining us on the blog. Please briefly describe your journey to publication.

A: Thank you Rosie for inviting me to the KidLit Oasis. I’m excited to share my writing journey.

I was one of those kids who always read. The public library was my home-away-from-home where I spent hours exploring the shelves. My favorite section was 398.2 – folk and fairy tales. I loved my high school creative writing class and I began writing my own fractured fairy tales. I loved to travel (still do) and majored in geography with a minor in comparative literature focusing on world cultures and oral traditions.

I knew I wanted to work with children and books so I earned my master’s degree in library and information science and had a wonderful career as a children’s librarian. I went back to school and got my teaching and reading specialist credential so that I could be on the same school schedule as my children.

I knew I wanted to write but didn’t know where to begin. I joined SCBWI, found a critique group, and realized how much I had to learn. My first picture book was 2,000 words! When I finally started to submit, rejections piled up. I was so discouraged that I stopped submitting for a few years but never stopped writing. I joined 12 x 12 and continued to work on the craft of writing by attending conferences and workshops as well as meeting weekly with my critique partners.

I sold a book to an educational publisher and then began writing a series for our regional children’s hospital featuring George the Giraffe.

I follow many blogs (like yours) and look for submission opportunities. In December of 2018, I saw that Cardinal Rule Press was open for submissions. The publisher, Maria Dismondy, has a clear vision for her company. She looks for stories that feature issues children face and how they solve their problems. I had a work-in-progress about a competitive child who hates to lose that I thought might be a good fit. I revised, cut words, and when my critique group agreed it was ready, pressed submit. That was January 31, 2019.

As writers know, it can take a long time to get a response on a submission so you can imagine my surprise when, on February 11th, I received an email to set up a zoom meeting. Maria told me that a friend had just asked what to do when a child has a hard time losing. Then, she opened my submission addressing this very issue.

Here are two take-aways from this experience: One, sometimes a manuscript reaches a publisher at just the right time. Two, do your homework before submitting. Maria said she received animal stories, poems, and subjects that she does not publish. I read as many CRP books as I could find to make sure mine was right for them.
​
Evie’s Field Day : More Than One Way To Win was illustrated by the lovely Alicia Teba who lives in Spain. Other authors told me that they had no contact with their illustrators so I was thrilled when I was given the go ahead to contact her. We’re now Facebook and Instagram friends and I hope to meet her someday when we can safely travel again.

​These are Alicia’s original character sketches of Evie.

​Q: What do you find most challenging in this business, either on the creative or publishing side of things? What do you find most rewarding? What helps you stay motivated?

A: This business is filled with challenges. One is that there are so few houses open to unagented authors. I am actively seeking representation but, in the meantime, I continue to write and submit.

Because I am interested in early literacy, I’d like to write for the early reader trade market. It seems to be a difficult market to break into as many publishers use in-house authors and more and more picture books are being reissued as early readers.
​
Of course, having a debut trade book released in the midst of a pandemic is full of challenges. Evie’s Field Day: More Than One Way To Win, was timed to release with the end-of-the-school-year celebrations. When everything was cancelled, we came up with a new idea - a virtual at home field day. I visited classrooms via zoom, reached out to school districts, and partnered with Sensory Rock which is a gym for all kids but specially designed for children with sensory processing issues. My remarkable publisher organized an Instagram teacher influencer tour and other publicity as well as providing great prizes for the field day which I’m happy to say was very successful. I am in the process of planning more events to promote my book.

Another big help is being part of the 2020 Debut Crew. We encourage and promote each other and I am grateful for their support.

Children and the kidlit community keep me motivated. I am a goal-oriented person who enjoys participating in writing challenges. 12 x 12 has been especially valuable because I know I’ll write at least one rough draft and a revision every month.

The most rewarding part of being an author is seeing children enjoying my books and the positive feedback I receive from parents and teachers.
 
Q: Could you share any craft tools or techniques that you find most helpful to you when working on a project? What does your revision process look like?

A: A number of years ago I realized that I needed to make writing my priority. Being in a weekly critique group keeps me accountable. I read children’s books constantly, first for enjoyment and then to examine the author’s craft. I also share books with children to see their reactions.
 
Q: What's coming up for you next? Please tell us about any new releases, exciting news, upcoming events or anything else you'd like to share with our readers?

A: A postponed event to celebrate Evie’s Field Day at our local Storybook Garden has been rescheduled for later this summer. I continue to do virtual author’s visits and recently did a book reading accompanied by an ASL interpreter. I’m looking forward to being featured on several podcasts in the weeks ahead. Also, the fifth book that I wrote for Valley Children’s Hospital will be released this summer.

Thank you for being my guest, Claire! I wish you all the best on your journey! 

Readers, please support our featured authors/illustrators by following them on Twitter, requesting their book through your local library, posting reviews on Amazon and Goodreads, and of course, purchasing their books.

I hope you enjoyed this post — comments and shares are appreciated. Thank you!

Connect with Claire Annette Noland:
Website: claireannettenoland.com
Twitter: @claire_noland
Instagram: clairesfieldtriplife

Claire Annette Noland writes picture books and early readers for children from her home in central California. Because she knows that everyone who reads is a winner, she is passionate about connecting children with books through the library collections she is developing in Nicaragua, her local women’s shelter, and her little free library. Her debut trade picture book, Evie’s Field Day: More Than One Way to Win, was released by Cardinal Rule Press on May 1, 2020. She loves to travel but these days she is visiting new places via books. She blogs about books, places, and books that take you places on her blog, A Field Trip Life.

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Books by Rosie J. Pova

Hello, lovely readers!

Hooray for you! You are at the Oasis and it's great to have you visit again (or for the first time)! This is the place to refresh your spirits, recharge your creativity, and get a literary mood boost!

Now, stretch your smiles wide and get comfy and cozy for a nice chitchat because today we have another awesome creative on the KidLit Oasis series... Children's author Gabrielle Snyder is here to share some wisdom, insight, and inspiration with us! Plus, check out the book giveaway and my workshop invitation to you at the end of this interview. 

Welcome, Gabi! Thank you for joining us on the blog. Please briefly describe your journey to publication.

A: Thanks for hosting me on the KidLit Oasis blog, Rosie. I’m honored to be here!

Back in the day (early aughts), I studied English-Creative Writing at The University of Texas, with a focus on writing fiction for adults. After earning my MA, I took a succession of jobs that used writing (like grant writing and instructional design), but I struggled to find time for my own writing.

Fast forward to 2013: when my kids were little (3 and 5), we moved from Austin to Corvallis, Oregon. With a break from work following the move, I found time to get back to my own writing. Only by then, I’d become immersed in the world of picture books and fallen in love with this form of storytelling. In 2014, I wrote my first picture books. And because I was already a writer, I (foolishly?) started submitting to agents and editors right away.

From 2014 to 2017, I received over 100 passes from agents and editors. But thrown in the mix were some champagne rejections and a few requests to see more work. Finally, in 2018, I found my agent, the fabulous Natalie Lakosil of Bradford Literary. I had sent Natalie three of my picture book manuscripts. When I received an offer from a small press for one of those manuscripts, I “nudged” the handful of agents who were reading my work at that time. Natalie responded that same day, requesting that we set up a time to chat. I had the impression that she’d already been considering me as a potential client and my “nudge” may’ve just moved things along.

Since signing with Natalie, we’ve sold two picture books. My debut, TWO DOGS ON A TRIKE, illustrated by Robin Rosenthal, is out now (May 19) from Abrams Appleseed. My second picture book, LISTEN, illustrated by Stephanie Graegin, will be out in spring 2021 from Simon & Schuster/Wiseman.
​
Q: What do you find most challenging in this business, either on the creative or publishing side of things? What do you find most rewarding? What helps you stay motivated?

A: Striking the balance between letting a project simmerand actually finishing the project – saying this is good enough (for now) and I’m going to send it out into the world – is a challenge. Most stories and other creative works benefit from multiple revision passes, but it’s also possible to revise the spark out of a story. I’ve found that sometimes happens when I try to revise too soon after receiving feedback.

On the publishing side of things, the waiting can be a challenge! I am not patient by nature and all the waiting for responses when out on submission can be nerve-wracking. I know that the best thing to do is throw myself into other projects, but that’s easier said than done! This quote about patience is becoming my new mantra: “Patience isn’t waiting – it’s the knowledge that to become exceptional takes time.”—Allyson Felix, US Track & Field Athlete. Maybe we can reframe how we deal with the snail’s pace of publishing. Instead of a passive waiting, maybe it’s taking the time to create/be a part of something phenomenal!

Accountability check-ins with writing partners help me stay motivated. Having multiple projects helps, too. When I’m feeling stuck with one story, I can set aside for a bit and focus on a different writing project.

Also, I think it’s important to choose writing topics that inspire you. Some things that consistently inspire and inform my writing are nature, my kids, and memories of my own childhood. Tapping into memories of the emotions of childhood – how it felt to be a child living through a particular moment or situation – feels especially helpful.
 
Q: Could you share any craft tools or techniques that you find most helpful to you when working on a project? What does your revision process look like?

A:I like to start each writing session with a “free write” to clear away the cobwebs and to capture anything that’s worrying me or that I want to remember. After that, I try to stick to a schedule. I block out a certain amount of time for working on picture book manuscripts. And then, time permitting, I have blocks for revising my middle grade manuscript, writing critiques, etc. I try to work some exercise into the schedule, too. 

My revision process looks a little bit different for each project. But, in general with a picture book, I think it’s helpful to get a complete first draft down in one sitting. And then I like to let the draft sit and marinate for bit – at least a week. If, after marination, it still shines, still feels like a promising idea, I revise again. Sometimes I revise several more times before the manuscript feels ready for my critique partners. Once in a while I do send an early draft to critique partners if I want brainstorming help and I’m still open to ideas about what the story is about. But if I have a strong idea about what the story is about and the emotion it should evoke, then I think it’s better to wait until I’ve taken the manuscript as far as I can before sending it to critique partners.

Q: What's coming up for you next? Please tell us about any new releases, exciting news, upcoming events or anything else you'd like to share with our readers?

A: Having a book released during a global pandemic isn’t ideal, but it’s been heartening to see the kidlit community rally around creators and indie bookstores. I’m currently planning some virtual book events. You can visit my website or sign up for my newsletter to stay apprised of events.
​
I’m super smitten with illustrator Robin Rosenthal’s art for TWO DOGS ON A TRIKE. Here’s a sneak peek at one of the interior spreads.

To see more, visit Robin’s website: robinrosenthal.com

Thank you, Gabi! It was a pleasure having you at the KidLit Oasis! I wish you all the best with this book and all future projects!

Readers, please support our featured authors/illustrators by following them on Twitter, requesting their book through your local library, posting reviews on Amazon and Goodreads, and of course, purchasing their books.

I hope you enjoyed this post and will be back for our next interview next week.  Comments and shares are appreciated. Thank you!

Connect with Gabrielle Snyder:
Website: gabisnyder.com
Twitter: @Gabi_A_Snyder
​

A T T E N T I O N,  P L E A S E!
You and your writer friends are invited to this epic kidlit workshop with Random House Editor Frances Gilbert! Don't miss the early bird registration and sign up for a written picture book critique from Frances before all the spots are gone.
​Check out the details for the workshop HERE

Welcome, Kataneh! Thank you for joining us on the blog. Please briefly describe your journey to publication.
​
A: The seed of the story of “Kat and Juju” was inspired by the time I first moved to America from Iran. My mother, my little brother and I left everything behind and came to this country with couple of suitcases, very little money and barely speaking any English.

The theme behind “Kat and Juju” (book 1 of the series) is about bravery and overcoming our fears even at a young age. All the childhood traumas and self-doubts can create insecurities and change lives. If we don’t face our fears when we are kids, they can become bigger issues down the line. I learned to be strong from my mother and also a fallen wild baby bird who once came to my life and inspired me to be brave. My Juju!

I always tell my students and the young creators/authors to be true to themselves when they write a story. Many powerful memorable stories are the ones that are based on the true experience and a raw emotion. This way we can touch the hearts of many, and hopefully bring a positive change.

I want to be honest and tell your readers that the journey to the publication was a long painful one. I had to go through many ups and downs. I knocked on several doors that never opened and many people in power doubted my abilities because I am a minority woman! But luckily, I never let that stop me. I knew I came to this country for a reason. I knew I was one of the lucky ones who got a chance to be free and have a voice. I knew I was responsible to tell a story that can hopefully make an impact. My drive and passion helped me to continue.

So, if you have a story that can heal and help others, never give up. Share your story with the world.

Q: What do you find most challenging in this business, either on the creative or publishing side of things? What do you find most rewarding? What helps you stay motivated?
​
A: Favoritism is toxic in many industries including ours. Sometimes we get rejected not because our story is not good enough, but because we are not connected to the people in power. Also being a minority woman can make it really difficult to get a platform.

But times are changing and today many women including diverse women, are getting a chance to be heard. So, I encourage you to embrace your true self. Be honest, be proud, be you. Once my Juju taught me to open my wings and fly high and I want to inspire you to do the same.
 
Q: Could you share any craft tools or techniques that you find most helpful to you when working on a project? What does your revision process look like?

A: I believe sometimes to be able to connect to our creative mind, we need to first try to disconnect. When I first want to write a story idea, I find a space (in nature or at home) where nobody else can distract me and I just zone out. It is a form of meditation and a massage for our brain.

I know we are all going through challenging times so I suggest finding that space where you can cleanse all your thoughts and find that moment when you can reconnect. Allow yourself to disconnect and then find the connection like rebooting your mind. The creative magic can be found there.

I am a visual storyteller and I illustrate my own projects. So, after finding the seed of the idea, I start thinking about shots. I start by writing down the story beats and then draw small thumbnails. This way I can look at the bigger picture and later make the adjustments.
 
Q: What's coming up for you next? Please tell us about any new releases, exciting news, upcoming events or anything else you'd like to share with our readers?

A:“Kat and Juju” is my first children’s book and it will be a book series. These days I am working on the story beats of “Kat and Juju” Book #2.

I was always afraid to be visible and have a public platform. But yet again Juju taught me to be brave and face my fears. So, a few weeks ago, I made @KatandJuju Instagram account public and the support has been unbelievable!

Kat, Juju and I are so excited to meet all our friends (we call birdies) all around the world. We hope to be able to inspire them to face their fears, believe in themselves, open their wings and reach their full potential.

I’m grateful to say I am currently directing my feature animation movie. At this moment I can’t announce anything, but I’m excited to share the news with you and your wonderful readers once the time is right.

I came to this country barely knowing any English, with couple of suitcases and a dream. I worked hard and I didn’t give up even when others wanted me to stop achieving my dream.
​
Today I have a voice and my wings are open. Want to fly with me?

This was a fun chat, thank you! And congrats on all of your success -- I look forward to the animated movie, too, how exciting!

Readers, please support our featured authors/illustrators by following them on Twitter, Instagram, requesting their book through your local library, posting reviews on Amazon and Goodreads, and of course, purchasing their books.

I hope you enjoyed this post — comments and shares are appreciated. Thank you!
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Connect with Kataneh:
Amazon Page
Instagram Page: @KatandJuju
Twitter: @KatanehV and @KatandJujuLove
Facebook: KatanehVahdani and Kat Juju
Facebook Page: @KatandJuju

Hello, dear readers!

Once again, the Kitlit Oasis has summoned you because  it's the place to refresh your spirits, recharge your creativity, and get a literary mood boost!

Now, as you're getting ready to enjoy our next interview, stretch your smiles wide and get comfy and cozy for a lovely chitchat because today we have another awesome creative on the Chitchat series... Children's author Sharon Giltrow is here to share some wisdom, insight, and inspiration with us! Plus, check out the giveaway and my new workshop with Random House Editor, Frances Gilbert,  at the end of this interview. 

Welcome, Sharon, and Happy Book Birthday! Thank you for joining us on the blog. Please briefly describe your journey to publication.
​
A: My debut picture book BEDTIME DADDY’s, book birthday is today. Yay!

Thank you, Rosie, for interviewing me on this very special day!
​
BEDTIME DADDY’S road to publication was quite long. The ideawas sparked through Tara Lazar’s writing challenge – Storystorm. In June 2017, I took that idea and wrote my first draft of BEDTIME DADDY. Then with the help of my fantastic critique groups, I revised the story. In November 2017 I started submitting BEDTIME DADDY. After receiving a number of rejections, I decided that the story wasn’t quite ready. So, with more help from my critique groups and a publisher’s critique I started submitting again. In June 2018, I submitted it to EK Books and two weeks later,I received ‘the email’. I signed the publishing deal with EK Books in August 2018.
 
My Publisherthen matched my story with the amazing illustrator Katrin Dreiling. EK Books, shared the entire publishing process with me and Katrin, and were very open to any suggestions, changes or ideas that we had. Twenty-one months after signing the contract BEDTIME DADDY was released.

Q: What do you find most challenging in this business, either on the creative or publishing side of things? What do you find most rewarding? What helps you stay motivated?
​
A: The biggest challenge for me was at the beginning, when I was trying to think of myself as a ‘writer’. However, once I started calling myself a writer and telling my family and friends that I was a writer, it became easier. Not surprisingly, after this I also became more serious about being a writer. Although, it wasn’t until I signed the publishing deal for BEDTIME DADDY that I started calling myself an author. One of my most rewarding moment was when my family and friends started calling me this too.

Another challenge I found was marketing. This was something that I had to learn but with the help of my debut group 2020 Debut Crew, I learnt these new skills and fast 😊.  My most rewarding marketing moment was when my daughter and I produced the book trailer for BEDTIME DADDY.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pOLMyE5TXnc
 
My next challenge will be getting book number two published. I have a number of picture book manuscripts that I am currently submitting. I hope I will have some more good news soon.
​
As all writers do, sometimes I question why I am putting in all this hard work, especially after I receive rejections. But, for me it is impossible not to write. I have an inner desire to write stories for children, which can’t be ignored. My greatest reward is seeing BEDTIME DADDY being read and enjoyed by children and adults 😊.

Q: Could you share any craft tools or techniques that you find most helpful to you when working on a project? What does your revision process look like?
​
A: The most helpful thing for me as a writer, is being a member of a critique group. BEDTIME DADDY would not have been published without the help of my critique partners. They helped me to take a very rough first draft and through many, many, many revisions turn it into a polished manuscript.
​
Here is how, with their help, the beginning of BEDTIME DADDY changed from version one to the final version ten.
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Q: What's coming up for you next? Please tell us about any new releases, exciting news, upcoming events or anything else you'd like to share with our readers?

A: My debut picture book BEDTIME DADDY is releasing worldwide TODAY! Available through EK Books and all good ONLINE bookstores.

I have a blog tour happening in May. This blog is part of the tour.
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Finally, as many schools around the world are now closed due to the Corona virus, I would like to share the links to BEDTIME DADDY’S teaching notes, for parents and educators. They can be found on EK Books and SCBWI – Australia West websites. In the near future I will also be recording and sharing short videos of some of these activities.

Great chatting with you, Sharon! Thanks for sharing your journey with us and the behind-the-scene of how your manuscript changed from its first draft to published book -- that's very helpful and I think writers will appreciate this example.  

Readers, please support our featured authors/illustrators by following them on Twitter, requesting their book through your local library, posting reviews on Amazon and Goodreads, and of course, purchasing their books.

I hope you enjoyed this post — comments and shares are appreciated. Thank you!
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Connect with Sharon Giltrow:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sharongiltrowwriter/
Twitter: @sharon_giltrow

Hello, marvelous readers!

Thank you for visiting the Oasis ― it's great to have you here! This is still the place to refresh your spirits, recharge your creativity, and get a literary mood boost!

Now, stretch your smiles wide and get comfy and cozy for a lovely chitchat because today we have another great creative on the KidLit Oasis series... Children's author Lauren Heller Kerstein is here to share some wisdom, insight, and inspiration with us! Plus, check out the giveaways, promo gifts, and other offers at the end of this interview.

Check out the double giveaway at this end of the interview, and if you missed my latest announcement, find it at the bottom of this post! 

Welcome, Lauren! Thank you for joining us on the blog. Please briefly describe your journey to publication.

A: In 1980, I wrote and … well… illustrated my first picture book. I used wallpaper as the book cover, and it still sits on my desk today. (Thank you, Mom, for saving it!) I’ve always loved writing and reading, but I quickly realized illustrating may not be my strength.
Fast forward… I took writing classes in high school and college. I wrote when I could while juggling a very full career as a child and family psychotherapist. My publication debuts were actually professional books in my field, and I never stopped working on my fiction.
But… I wanted more. More time for fiction. More time for writing. More time for studying the craft.

So… about 6 years ago, I signed a contract that two of my closest friends wrote out for me on a napkin at dinner. I agreed to drop one of my consulting positions so that I could write more.

And then, I dug in. I joined SCBWI, carved out Wacky Writing Wednesday time, studied craft, joined Julie Hedlund’s 12x12, and began submitting.

*BRAKE SCREECH!*

We sold Rosie and Charlie!

And from there… well… I revised, revised, revised until ROSIE THE DRAGON AND CHARLIE MAKE WAVES swam to shelves June 1, 2019.
​
I have learned that this industry is 100% sheer will, determination, education, and persistence, and 40% luck and timing. (Please ignore the fact that the math doesn’t work at all!) It is a roller coaster ride, for sure. But, if you hang on tightly and keep on keeping on over and over and over again, you never know what magic may happen!
 
Q: What do you find most challenging in this business, either on the creative or publishing side of things? What do you find most rewarding? What helps you stay motivated?

A: I find the waiting most challenging. I try to focus on the fact that we have control over our craft. We have control over making our work THE best it can be. We have very little control over the rest.

I find the connections I’ve made with other kidlit writers to be incredibly rewarding. My critique partners are INCREDIBLE! The authors in my debut group are AMAZING! I also love the contact and interactions I’ve had with children (virtually and in-person). I write for children! It is thrilling to watch them enjoy Rosie and Charlie.
 
Q: Could you share any craft tools or techniques that you find most helpful to you when working on a project? What does your revision process look like?

A: I write a lot of craft tools in my Quick-Read Crafty Tips, for my critique business, and in my #ReVISIONweek posts. I also have templates on my website.
The craft tools and techniques I use are generally different for each story, but the tools I consistently use for all manuscripts are:

• I love using a planning template (which is on my website) to help me ground myself in the manuscript, character, arc, comps, and any research I need to do.
• I listen to music on YouTube that is either “study music” or “positive thinking” music. The instrumental music really helps me get my brain going. When I write novels, though, I love listening to popular music.
• I use a sand-timer to clock uninterrupted writing time. This is a bit more challenging with everyone at home right now, but it really works, and it helps me focus. (Thank you Claudia Mills for this fabulous idea).
• I also devote Wednesdays to actual creation. I try to work on revising or drafting other days of the week, but administrative tasks (including keeping up with social media, marketing, author visits, my critique business, etc. etc.) often take precedence over actual creating. On Wednesdays, I devote the majority of the day to revision, creation, and planning new manuscripts.

My revision process includes:
​

• Lots of feedback from critique partners. (Critique partners make the world go round.)
• Printing out a copy of the manuscript and using different colored pens to add everyone’s feedback in one place.
• Sitting in different places (away from my computer) as I ponder revisions.
• Examining key components to make sure they are working, i.e., emotional arc/resonance, pacing, page-turns, motivation, narrative arc, and making sure I’ve threaded all of the layers and seeds through from start to finish.
• I also force myself to step away for a period of time before I re-read or send it back out. This period of time varies from manuscript to manuscript, but is never less than 24 hours.
• I make a dummy or lay the spreads out around the table to make sure the manuscript is working.
• Lastly, I challenge myself to dig deeper. Did I make the manuscript as intriguing and unique as it could be? Did I stretch as far as I can stretch? Did I craft a story/ character/ story problem in such a way that it has a chance in today’s market?

 
Q: What's coming up for you next? Please tell us about any new releases, exciting news, upcoming events or anything else you'd like to share with our readers?

A: The second Rosie and Charlie book will hit shelves on September 1, 2020. It is called ROSIE THE DRAGON AND CHARLIE SAY GOOD NIGHT (Two Lions). Nate Wragg illustrated again, which is terrific! He’s so talented. I’m excited to share this book with the world! Let me tell you, helping a dragon settle for bed is an interesting and fun challenge!

I also have a book called, HOME FOR A WHILE (Magination Press), coming out in February 2021. Natalia Moore is the illustrator. This is a book from my heart. HOME FOR A WHILE is about a boy in foster care. It provides children and their caregivers the opportunity to explore and highlight the beauty of their unique characteristics. It is my hope that Calvin’s resilience and courage will help children as they find their way through their own struggles.

In addition, I have a number of picture books (fiction, non-fiction, humorous, and more serious) out to editors, so please cross your fingers, legs, and toes for me! I’m working on a few new PBs, revising a YA (slowly), and an adult novel that I began years ago has been screaming at me to pay it some attention. We shall see where that leads.

Thank you so much for having me, Rosie! I have enjoyed sharing this writing journey with you, and look forward to all of your future successes! I can’t wait to hold SUNDAY RAIN in my hands.

Aw, that is so sweet, thank you, Lauren! Fingers, legs, and toes crossed for your projects on submission! And thank you so much for being a guest, and for sharing such great insight and a wealth of resources and tips with the blog readers! I know everyone who reads this interview will be inspired by your journey. 

Readers, please support our featured authors/illustrators by following them on Twitter, requesting their book through your local library, posting reviews on Amazon and Goodreads, and of course, purchasing their books.

I hope you enjoyed this post — shares are appreciated. Thank you!

Connect with Lauren:

Website: www.LaurenKerstein.net

Twitter: @LaurenKerstein

Hello, dear readers!

Here, at the Oasis, the inspiration keeps going. And as always, it's great to have you visit! This is still the place to refresh your spirits, recharge your creativity, and get a literary mood boost!

Now, stretch your smiles wide once again and get comfy and cozy for a lovely chitchat because today we have another spectacular creative on the KidLit Oasis series... Children's author Nell Cross Beckerman is here to share some wisdom, insight, and inspiration with us!

Plus, check out the DOUBLE giveaway and my announcement of an epic all-day, in-person workshop with Random House Editor, Frances Gilbert, at the end of this interview!
 
Welcome, Nell! Thank you for joining us on the blog. Please briefly describe your journey to publication.

A: I first started out writing middle grade. I actually wrote a book and got an agent, but then found myself completely blocked for revisions and quit writing for 10 years (and had kids.) I felt like a failure. As my kids started to get older, I realized that I was their role model, and if I wanted them to be brave and live big, I had to as well. Finding the book, THE ARTIST’S WAY, by Julia Cameron, helped me understand my creative blocks and how to nurture my inner artist. Everything fell into place after that—I was definitely my own worst enemy!

Q: What do you find most challenging in this business, either on the creative or publishing side of things? What do you find most rewarding? What helps you stay motivated?

A: The thing that feels the most challenging, that we hear time and time again, is that all the agents and editors are totally subjective. You only need ONE yes. So you can doubt yourself if the “nos” pile up, but you just need that one person to connect with your work. This has happened on every project with me. It’s funny to see my first book coming out, getting nice reviews, and to look back at all the rejections it got early on. But it just had to find that right home. This is the biggest challenge we writers have to wrap our heads around.

The most rewarding for me so far is finding my critique group and being part of the kid lit community. My group is incredibly special—we are super supportive but we also challenge each other. Most importantly, we keep each other going. During these pandemic times, they are my group chat. And I love going to conferences and meeting more writers, agents, and authors.  ​

​Q: Could you share any craft tools or techniques that you find most helpful to you when working on a project? What does your revision process look like?

A: My creative foundation is from THE ARTIST’S WAY. Morning pages, writing freely for three pages first thing in the morning, always helps if I’m feeling stuck. Then also: going on an “artist date”—this is doing something alone, just for fun. For me that might look like going to get a huge cookie and a big glass of milk at a bakery and just reading a book, it might be going on a hike and turning off my phone, it might be doing something totally unusual like trying to watercolor a dummy of the story I’m working on (I’m not an illustrator!). I’ve tried to dummy in different ways and it has helped me with revisions and tickled my brain in a different way. For one project I used Keynote slides and just pulled images off the internet to convey the visuals I was looking for. It helped and was fun!  I also work with a freelance editor and check in with my critique group, and then finally my agent, Lara Perkins at Andrea Brown Literary Agency, who has incredibly savvy thoughts and knows how to pull the best out of me. One last exercise—I’ll go to the library and find a bunch of mentor texts and retype them. I’ll read them aloud over and over and try to get their brilliance into my bones.

Q: What's coming up for you next? Please tell us about any new releases, exciting news, upcoming events or anything else you'd like to share with our readers?

A: DOWN UNDER THE PIER released April 7 from Cameron Kids, illustrated by the fabulous Rachell Sumpter. It is inspired by the Santa Monica Pier and all the time I spent there with my kids—everyone knows how to have fun on top of the pier at the amusement park, but it is down under the pier, at low tide, where the real magic happens. I plan to do a series called “Demystifying the Debut” where I retrace all my steps and share my experience and advice in having my debut published. Please join my mailing list at www.NellCrossBeckerman.com if you want to get those sent to you!  You can also see the book’s trailer here.

In 2021 I’m looking forward to my second book, WHEN THE SKY GLOWS, coming from Beach Lane Books/S&S with the fantastically talented David Litchfield illustrating. That will be a non-fiction book celebrating all the different ways that nature makes the sky glow, and the bonds formed by those witnessing it.

My agent is just now sealing the deal on my third book, which I’m completely thrilled about—it’s another lyrical nature-themed story. And I have a really special picture book out on sub now, that I wrote in collaboration with a TV personality that I’m very excited about, fingers crossed on that one!

Thank you, Nell -- it was a pleasure having you and chatting with you! All the best with your projects and your journey! I hope you'll be back to visit again.

Dear readers, please support our featured authors/illustrators by following them on Twitter, requesting their book through your local library, posting reviews on Amazon and Goodreads, and of course, purchasing their books. 

Connect with Nell Cross Beckerman:
Website: www.nellcrossbeckerman.com
Twitter: @NellBeckerman
​IG: @NellCrossBeckerman 

Hello, dear readers!

Welcome back to the Oasis ― it's great to have you here! As you probably already know, this is the place to refresh your spirits, recharge your creativity, and get a literary mood boost! How great is that?! 

Now, once again, stretch your smiles wide and get comfy and cozy for a lovely chitchat because today we have another awesome creative on the KidLit Oasis series... Children's author Kelly Jordan is here to share some wisdom, insight, and inspiration with us! Plus, there's a giveaway -- hooray!

Welcome, Kelly! Thank you for joining us on the blog. Please briefly describe your journey to publication.

A: I initially wrote the manuscript for The Little Blue Cottage as an exercise in Laurel Snyder’s picture book class offered through Decatur Writers Studio in early 2016. The assignment was to write a story drawn from our own personal experiences. When I thought about the places and moments that meant the most to me in childhood (and as an adult!), my dad’s bay cottage came to mind. My brother, dad, and I always have referred to it as “Blackwater” for the dark color of the water in East Bay, Florida. It’s a simple place, but one where time tends to slow down. When I think of Blackwater, it’s inextricably linked to the love I feel for my dad, as well as boat rides, skiing, seeing pods of dolphins, and long afternoons swimming. To me, it has always been a place that represents simplicity, beauty, pure joy, and magic.

After writing the initial draft, I spent two years revising and shelving the story. I felt like there was something there, but it didn’t quite fit the “quirky, funny” picture books that it seemed everyone was looking for. So, I held off on pitching it to any agents or publishers.

During #PBPitch in 2018, I Tweeted a pitch of The Little Blue Cottage and Charlotte Wenger, former editor at Page Street Kids liked it! Since I got a “like” from her, it was an open invitation to submit to Charlotte. So, I did! She and I sent the draft back and forth for various revisions, then, in August 2018, she sent me a publishing contract. I didn’t stop smiling for weeks! Through the process, I was also able to find my amazing agent, Stephanie Fretwell-Hill of Red Fox Literary! 
 
Q: What do you find most challenging in this business, either on the creative or publishing side of things? What do you find most rewarding? What helps you stay motivated?

A: I’d say the most challenging aspects of both writing and publishing are patience and perseverance. You’re going to receive a ton of rejections and it hurts every time. But, you get tough! And, it’s important to remember that when you get rejected, it’s nothing personal. At the end of the day, publishing is a business. So, I always do my best to keep perspective and to take those rejections as opportunities to practice and learn. I also allow myself to feel disappointed and sad. When you work hard on something, it’s ok to let yourself feel! The important thing is to move on and keep pursuing your dreams!

The most rewarding aspects of writing are the sense of accomplishment I feel when the words and story finally come together and I get to hear from another person (be it my husband, a critique partner, or my agent), “I love this so much!” To have your words evoke emotion from another person or to transport someone is such an amazing feeling!
I’m a huge reader and I’ve always wanted to be a writer. I also find that when I’m my happiest, I’m writing! So, those two things keep me motivated, as well as the cheerleading I receive from my critique partners.

Q: Could you share any craft tools or techniques that you find most helpful to you when working on a project? What does your revision process look like?

A: My critique partners are by and large the most helpful and valuable part of my revising process. These people are all incredibly insightful and honest in their feedback. I typically let a new draft sit for a few days or weeks—until I have a bit of separation from the work. Then, I work on revising the draft until the language and the heart are at a place where I’d like them to be. At that point, I print the story, read it out loud, and record myself reading it, which helps me hear awkward phrasings or unnecessary words. Then, if I really love the story, my husband reads it. After that, my critique partners review it and I make revisions that feel right based on their feedback. Finally, when it’s clean and as good as I can get it, I send it to my agent!
 
Q: What's coming up for you next? Please tell us about any new releases, exciting news, upcoming events or anything else you'd like to share with our readers?

A: My debut picture book, The Little Blue Cottage, illustrated by the fabulous Jessica Courtney-Tickle will be released by Page Street Kids May 12, 2020. Depending on whether we will still be social distancing or not, I’ll either do in-store events and school events throughout the Southeast or several virtual events to promote the book. Please check my website for updates and to order the book!

My second book, Chase the Moon, Tiny Turtle: A Hatchling’s Daring Race to the Sea, illustrated by Sally Walker, will also be published by Page Street Kids March 2, 2021.

​Thank you, Kelly, it was a pleasure chatting with you, and congratulations on the Kirkus starred review! I couldn't agree more about the most rewarding aspects of writing you talked about -- "the sense of accomplishment when the words and story finally come together" and also "to have your words evoke emotion from another person." That's how I feel, too!

Wishing you all the best with this book and all future projects!
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Readers, please support our featured authors/illustrators any way you could: by following them on Twitter and Instagram, requesting their books through your local library, posting reviews on Amazon and Goodreads, and of course, purchasing their books from your local indie bookstore.

I hope you enjoyed this post and will be back soon. Shares on social media are also appreciated, thank you!


                                    G I V E A W A Y!!!

Kelly is giving away one picture book critique! Comment on this post to be entered. The winner will be announced next week. 

Connect with Kelly Jordan:

Website: kellyjordan.com
Instagram: @kellyjordanwrites

Kelly Jordan is a children’s book author represented by Stephanie Fretwell-Hill of Red Fox Literary. Her Kirkus-starred debut picture book, THE LITTLE BLUE COTTAGE, will be released by Page Street Kids May 12, 2020, followed by CHASE THE MOON, TINY TURTLE: A HATCHLING’S DARING RACE FROM LAND TO SEA (also by Page Street Kids) March 4, 2021. She is a member of both SCBWI and 12x12, and is actively involved in the Atlanta writing community. A lifelong lover of words, Jordan is also a freelance writer and editor, whose articles have appeared in such publications as Atlanta magazine, Georgia Travel Guide, Redbook, Southern Living, Paste, Darling, and Flavors. Jordan is a Gulf Coast native and a graduate of the University of Georgia’s Grady College of Journalism. She is currently enrolled in Purdue University’s online Master of Science in Communication program. She lives in Decatur, Georgia, with her husband, cat, and dog. ​

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If you'd like to support my work, consider ordering any of my books while also supporting your local indie bookstores. (Click on the image to order.) Thanks!

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And the giveaway winner of Heather Macht's PB critique and copy of her book is...

Hello, dear readers!

Yay, you're back at the Oasis ― it's great to have you here! This is the place to refresh your spirits, recharge your creativity, and get a literary mood boost!

Now, stretch your smiles wide and get comfy and cozy for a lovely chitchat because today we have another fabulous creative on the KidLit Oasis series... Children's author Heather Macht is here to share some wisdom, insight, and inspiration with us! Plus, there's a double giveaway, too! 

Welcome, Heather! Thank you for joining us on the blog. Please briefly describe your journey to publication.

A: Thanks so much for having me, Rosie! Wow, I’ve been interested in publication ever since I was a young girl. But my interest really peaked when I was 18 and graduating high school. I told my teachers and classmates that I was going to be a children’s picture book author. I knew there was nothing else I wanted to do. I spent years in libraries looking through the bookshelves, writing, querying, and yes, even receiving boatloads of rejections (and I mean BIG boatloads). However, after years of perseverance, I finally received my first YES. That was almost 13 years later after my journey started! My first book, You May Just Be a Dinosaur, was published in 2015. It was worth the wait. 😉
 
Q: What do you find most challenging in this business, either on the creative or publishing side of things? What do you find most rewarding? What helps you stay motivated?

A: You know, I was under the impression once I had my first, second, or even third book published that things would get easier. Yeah, I was wrong. It’s equally as difficult to get a book published the fourth or fifth time around. And it makes sense, too. The writing community is so talented! Publishers are constantly getting swamped with incredible manuscripts. You must keep studying and working on your craft. And, you must keep up to date on what’s getting published. This helps you make sure you have a fresh take and put a fresh spin on what you’re writing, so you can offer publishers something new (not something they’ve seen over and over).

What’s most rewarding and what helps me stay motivated actually share the same answer: I love reading to kids. My favorite type of events are school visits where I get to read and inspire students, and hopefully make them laugh (which I thankfully usually do). This is always a reminder of why I keep trying and trudging through rejections. It’s worth seeing their faces light up and making a connection with them! Added bonus: I have at least a handful of students tell me they want to be a writer, too, after my presentation. That makes my heart melt every time.
 
Q: Could you share any craft tools or techniques that you find most helpful to you when working on a project?
​
A: Yes, I have three techniques I swear by. Hopefully some of these will help other writers, too.

1. Are you stuck on a part of your manuscript? Do you have writer’s block? Take a break and read! Reading something else seems to help me relax, get inspired, and pick right back up with a new perspective.
2. Does something just not feel right with your manuscript? Open a new word document and retype/restart your story (without looking at your first version). It’s almost like a factory reset! Sometimes we become so stuck on our project we feel hesitant to make any changes. This gives you a fresh start and can unlock new wording and new inspiration!
3. Do you think your manuscript is ready to be sent off? Don’t hit send just yet. Before you query a publisher or agent, or before you send your manuscript to your critique partners, print it out! Read through a hard copy. Just seeing it in a different format can help you pick out any typos or errors. 

 
Q: What's coming up for you next? Please tell us about any new releases, exciting news, upcoming events or anything else you'd like to share with our readers?

A: My next book, Rex the…We-Don’t-Know, is coming out April 6th! It was the most difficult book I’ve written, probably because it means so much to me. Since Rex is a blend of all the animals I had growing up, I knew I had a special duty (to them) to make it extra heartfelt. 😉 Needless to say, I’m SO excited to have this book released into the world! I’m currently planning blog tours, book readings, school visits, and more so stay tuned for updates!

Thank you, Heather! It's always a pleasure chatting with you. All the best with Rex the…We-Don’t-Know and your future projects! 

Readers, please support our featured authors/illustrators by following them on Twitter, requesting their book through your local library, posting reviews on Amazon and Goodreads, and of course, purchasing their books. 

I hope you enjoyed this post and will be back for our next chitchat. Shares this post with writer friends, teachers, librarians and parents. Thank you!

Comment on this post for a chance to win a copy of 
Rex the…We-Don’t-Know AND a picture book critique! 
(One winner for both; US only; prize will be mailed after quarantine)

Connect with Heather:
Website: www.heathermacht.com
Twitter: @AuthorHMacht 

Hello, quarantined-but-unstoppable readers!

Once again, you have arrived at the Oasis! Thank you for visiting. I hope you find it to be a place to refresh your spirits, recharge your creativity, and get a literary mood boost!

Now, stretch your smiles wide and get comfy and cozy for a double delight of a chitchat because today we have another awesome creative on the KidLit Oasis series... Children's author and illustrator Janee Trasler is here to share some wisdom, insight, and inspiration with us! Plus, check out the giveaway at the end of this interview.

Welcome, Janee ! Thank you for joining us on the blog. Please briefly describe your journey to publication.

A: I started out as an illustrator. I enjoyed illustrating other people’s words, but I kept feeling that I wanted to tell more of the story myself. I wrote some truly awful first manuscripts before I decided to take a writing workshop and learn how the heck it was supposed to be done.

In 2006, I had a freakishly quick sale on my first two books (series), and thought “Wow! This is easy!”

Five (long) years later, I finally sold another book (thank you Jamie).
Books 13, 14, and 15 come out this year.
 
Q: What do you find most challenging in this business, either on the creative or publishing side of things? What do you find most rewarding? What helps you stay motivated?

A: I’m my own worst enemy sometimes. I have TONS of ideas. My brain spits them out constantly. It’s sitting down and shaping them that can trip me up. If it feels difficult, I start doubting the merit or the viability of the idea.

But, oh, when it comes together…

THAT’S what keeps me motivated—that awesome feeling when the idea, the words, the structure, the pacing, and the images all marry together into a satisfying story.
 
Q: Could you share any craft tools or techniques that you find most helpful to you when working on a project? What does your revision process look like?

A: I’m big on the planning stage of things. I want to know exactly where I’m going before I dig into the actual writing or illustrating. I need a solid storyboard. With a board book, picture book, or early reader, I like to number a blank piece of paper with the number of spreads. Then I usually jot down my idea of where I think the various plot points happen on those spreads for that particular story (intro, action 1, action 2, action 3, climax, resolution). Then I fill in the blanks.

I’ll probably revise this written storyboard six to seven times before I start writing.

I’m working on some longer format ideas now. I’m using more of an outline than a storyboard, but the same elements are all still there.

On the illustration side of things, I work completely digitally. My latest books were done on the iPad (and under the influence of many cappuccinos).
 
Q: What's coming up for you next? Please tell us about any new releases, exciting news, upcoming events or anything else you'd like to share with our readers?

A: I’m so excited! I feel very fortunate to be publishing a series of three emergent readers with Scholastic Acorn this year. Acorn is the younger sibling of the successful Branches imprint.

These three books follow the exploits of Frog, Frog, Frog, and Dog.

With our current world situation, we’ll all have to stay tuned about upcoming events. I hope to have a book launch in May for the first two books FROG MEETS DOG and GOAT IN A BOAT at my local library.

Thank you, Janee, it was a pleasure chatting with you! Best of success with the new releases and keep them coming -- your books are adorable and fun! Hope to see you again soon at a North Texas event.

Dear readers, please support our featured authors/illustrators by following them on Twitter, IG, requesting their book through your local library, posting reviews on Amazon and Goodreads, and of course, purchasing their books while supporting your local indie bookstores.

I hope you enjoyed this post... But wait, there's more! janee is generously donating a critique (board book or picture book or early reader) to one lucky winner! Simply comment below to be entered. And don't forget to share this post on your social media to help Janee spread the word of her new releases. Thank you!
 
Connect with Janee Trasler:
Website: www.trasler.com
Twitter: @janeetrasler
IG: https://www.instagram.com/janeetrasler/

​Janee Trasler is the author-illustrator of fifteen books for children, including the popular Chickies series from HarperCollins and the upcoming Frog and Dog series from Scholastic/Acorn. She also enjoys bringing other people’s books to life with pictures. Even when she’s not writing and illustrating books, she can still be found telling stories through music and puppets.
 
Janee is represented by Jamie Weiss Chilton at the Andrea Brown Literary Agency.
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Click on the book cover to order a copy from your Indie Bookstore!

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If you'd like to support my work, consider pre-ordering a copy of
Sunday Rain (Lantana Publishing/Lerner, 2021)

Hello, amazing readers!

Hooray, you reached the Oasis ― it's great to have you here! This is the place to refresh your spirits, recharge your creativity, and get a literary mood boost!

Now, stretch your smiles wide and get comfy and cozy for a nice chitchat because today we have another great creative on the KidLit Oasis series... Children's author Andria Warmflash Rosenbaum is here to share some wisdom, insight, and inspiration with us! Plus, check out the double giveaway, promo gifts, and other offers at the end of this interview.

Welcome, Andria! Thank you for joining us on the blog. Please briefly describe your journey to publication.

I decided I wanted to be a picture book writer when I was eleven. I still have the first book I wrote and unfortunately illustrated. Back then I also wanted to be an astronaut, an Olympic sprinter, or figure skater, a ballerina and an actress. (I've always been a bit of a drama queen!) While I was in high school I wrote over fifty songs and poems. I was still writing poetry in my twenties, but let go of my picture book dreams for a while because of all the rejections I received. I didn't think about picture books again until I had my four children. But I was so busy with my family I could only focus on writing poems and short stories for children's magazines.  My first two children's books weren't published until I was in my early forties. My road to publication has been a long and winding one and I've given up many times. But in the end, not writing isn't an option for me. Writing is like eating a good meal. I would starve if I couldn't work with words.
 
Q: What do you find most challenging in this business, either on the creative or publishing side of things? What do you find most rewarding? What helps you stay motivated?

A: There are many challenges, both personal and professional that writers face. The most important thing for me to remember is to stay focused. It's so easy to get distracted by darling dog videos & heated Twitter debates. But it does nothing for my productivity. I find it crucial to block-out time just for writing, promotion, emails and reading. I need to be as organized as possible. I don't work well in chaos.

While it's thrilling to sell a manuscript, it just makes me hungry for more. What truly satisfies me is hearing from readers, librarians and teachers. There's nothing better than seeing your book in the hands of a child. Learning to read and comprehend what I read was especially hard for me. Maybe this is one reason I find it gratifying to know that kids are enjoying my books. There's nothing more motivating than that.

I also think it's important to keep growing as a writer even after you've sold books. The market is always evolving and I think it's vital for writers to keep challenging themselves. I do this through reading and taking writing workshops. I also count on my critique partners to push me far beyond where I might have thought I could go.

​Q: Could you share any craft tools or techniques that you find most helpful to you when working on a project? What does your revision process look like?
​
A: The hardest part for me is getting that first draft down on paper. It's a matter of commitment and focus. An idea rises to the surface. I mull it over and brainstorm a bit. Then I write down as many notes as I can that resonate with emotion and story. Writing is a mind game. (Writer's block truly is all in your head!) I often promise myself a little treat if I get the job done. I'm also a hug fan of Elizabeth Gilbert's BIG MAGIC. I actually keep a copy of the book on my desk for motivation. The magic for me lies in revision. That's what I look forward to. That's what I love most of all.

Q: What's coming up for you next? Please tell us about any new releases, exciting news, upcoming events or anything else you'd like to share with our readers?

A: My latest picture book is BOATS WILL FLOAT, illustrated by Brett Curzon, published by Sleeping Bear Press. It was just released on March 15. I have some wonderful early memories of gliding in my grandparent's canoe on Candlewood Lake. This was the spark for this book.

I wrote Boats as a follow up to TRAINS DON'T SLEEP, but my editor passed on it. My agent at the time kept submitting it till it was acquired.  But within six months of being announced the book was cancelled. Fortunately, my agent sold it a second time, which was pretty amazing. It all turned out for the best because I couldn't be happier with Brett Curzon's incredible illustrations. He infused our book with life, humor, color and tons of fun!

I'll be doing a number of readings in northern New Jersey to promote BOATS WILL FLOAT. Follow me on Twitter to find out where and when!

Thank you so much for inviting me to share my process with you and your readers!
Happy writing :)
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Connect with Andria Warmflash Rosenbaum:

Website:  www.andriawarmflashrosenbaum.com
Twitter: @andriawrose
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Thank you for being my guest, Andria, and happy writing to you as well!

Dear readers, please support our featured authors/illustrators by following them on Twitter, requesting their book through your local library, posting reviews on Amazon and Goodreads, and of course, purchasing their books. I hope you enjoyed this post and will be back for our next interview. Shares appreciated -- thank you!
 
Comment on this post for a chance to win one of two copies of Andria's adorable book, BOATS WILL FLOAT. The two lucky winners will be announced next week!
[U.S. only; copies will be mailed whenever it's safe to do so.]