Hello, amazing readers!

It's a pleasure to have you at the Oasis -- thanks for visiting! This is the place to refresh your spirits, recharge your creativity, and get a literary mood boost!

And with this post, I will be wrapping up the series for the season and taking a break for the summer, but the Chitchat will resume at the end of August. So . . .

Get ready to enjoy this interview! 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 Lindsay Leslie is here to share some wisdom, insight, and inspiration with us! Plus, check out the DOUBLE giveaway, and other offers at the end of this interview. 

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

A: Thank you so much for having me, Rosie! I wasn't one of those folks who dreamed of becoming an author, but I was one of those folks who could write. It was something I did to manage my emotions (lots of diary and journal writing), to stay busy and focused (on my high school newspaper; journalism major), and to secure myself a job (my career as a public relations exec). And we've all heard this before: it took me having my own children to fall back in love with picture books, but as a storyteller and not just a reader. I dove into craft and leaned on all the resources--SCBWI Austin, Julie Hedlund's 12X12, Picture Book Summit, The Writing Barn--and I also chased every avenue to get feedback and exposure to agents and editors--#PBParty, #PBPitch, #PitMad, and so on. I've met so many fantastic and talented authors and illustrators who inspired me to push on and keep at it.

​I never wanted to throw in the towel, but I often wondered if I could ever break through. And then my break came from a pitch during #PitMad for THIS BOOK IS SPINELESS. That's how I connected with Page Street Kids and my editor at the time, Charlotte Wenger. They not only offered on THIS BOOK IS SPINELESS (illustrated by Alice Brereton), but then two subsequent manuscripts of mine, NOVA THE STAR EATER (illustrated by John Taesoo Kim) and the picture book that just released, DUSK EXPLORERS (illustrated by Ellen Rooney). The text for DUSK EXPLORERS came to me from one of the presentations by Julie Hedlund called "The Verse Curse". The story poured out of me and really didn't require much editing. I was so in the moment when I wrote it. I was transported back to my childhood street of Fieldwood Drive in Richardson, Texas. Right now, I'm wishing another story would come to me like DUSK EXPLORERS did. I think a lot of it is being open to the memories, the experiences, and the observations, and being mindful when they cross the transom.

I think my biggest uphill battle with getting into this industry was the very beginning. I was coming out of a depression due to massive panic attacks, and I once again leaned toward writing to give me courage and to pull me out of the pain. What came of that was my debut, THIS BOOK IS SPINELESS. It was very autobiographical. I wasn't ready to share the story about how the book came about until recently. I wrote about it here.

I then had another big health scare in 2017 when I contracted Tick Borne Relapsing Fever, which landed me in the hospital. During my sickness, I had the wherewithal to post my pitches to #PitMad, which led to my first book deal. When I think about these health battles, the trials and tribulations of the creative process and publishing industry don't get to me as much as they would have had I not been knocked down a couple of times. I've built some amazing armor over the years and I'm full-on using it. I've always said, "It's always a 'no' if you don't put yourself out there."
 
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: Besides the waiting? OK, seriously, I think it is the feeling that you are just one creator among a sea of so many talented people. Your manuscript has got to shine and shine brightly. Often times I write a story and I love it. I'm head over heels, yet other folks read it and don't get what I'm trying to do. I'm often too conceptual, but I love working in that space and leaving parts of the story up for interpretation. What I find rewarding is when I connect. First I have to connect with my agent, then an editor, and then I get to connect to the readers and to the parents, teachers, and librarians. When they all get it and get the feelings I'm trying to express, nothing is greater. That's what keeps me motivated.

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 feel I'm one of the worst people to ask about process. I'm so willy nilly, but, hey, that's a process, right? I let my manuscript lead me. But in the end, I always ALWAYS put my manuscripts through the ringer with at least a couple of critique groups. I read them aloud to my husband (a novelist) and children (seriously wonderful editors), and, wow, are they honest with their feedback. (Brutal!) I almost always dummy my stories. I would share the dummies for one of my three published books, but I threw them out. Now, why would I do that? Ugh. I won't do that in the future. Sorry folks! My dummies are 8 pieces of 8 1/2 X 11 pieces of paper folded in half. I write each word in with pencil, so that I think about each word. I often read it out loud as I am writing, so I catch words I've doubled up on or those words that just don't lend themselves to the story. I also use the drawer or the file folder and let the story sit for a while. I need space from my story to be able to really see it again for the editing process.
 
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 have the type of exciting news I can't talk about. So, CLIFFHANGER! Also, I'm thrilled that DUSK EXPLORERS earned a starred review from Kirkus, Ellen Rooney and I were interviewed for the June issue of Kirkus (pinchable moment), and Amazon's editors picked it as one of the best books of June 2020 for ages 3-5 (jaw drop). I will be doing a live reading of DUSK EXPLORERS and answering questions over on Books & Books Instagram page (@booksandbooks) on July 4 at 11 a.m. ET. Swing on by! 

Wow, what an amazing journey! Congrats on all your success, Lindsay, and I can't wait to hear more about the exciting news you can't talk about now (what a cliffhanger indeed!). It was a pleasure having you and I hope you'll be back to share your next book with us, too!

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 Lindsay Leslie:
Website: lindsayleslie.com
Twitter: @lleslie

Hello again and welcome back to a brand new interview on the KidLit Oasis!

Thank you for stopping by -- I hope that you find the Chitchat series to be a place for refreshing your spirits, recharging your creativity, and getting a literary mood boost!

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

Plus, check out the giveaways and other offers at the end of this interview. 

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

A: I’ve always been a writer, Rosie, but it was at the beginning of 2017 that I decided to begin exploring the picture book industry. I spoke to people who I believed could be helpful resources – and they were – and I wrote and wrote and wrote. And revised even more.

That June I wrote the first draft of Let’s Dance! After getting beneficial critique from a friend, and continuing to revise, I started querying the manuscript in January 2018. It was “liked” in a Twitter pitch in June 2018 by Jes Negrón, an editor at Boyds Mills & Kane.
A couple of weeks after sending the manuscript to her, Jes expressed interest in publishing the book. When we had “The Call,” I shared with her my desire for the book’s illustrations to manifest an inclusive representation of children: gender, race, ability. Jes expanded upon my vision for diversity by recognizing that some of my words described cultural dances like Flamenco (Spain), Kathak (India), and Long Sleeve Dance (China). I am thrilled to have this added layer of cultural representation in my book!
 
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: What’s challenging in this industry is the constant rejection. I’m motivated to continue along my journey, however, because all children, especially those who are underrepresented in books, deserve to see themselves on book covers and pages; they need to feel valued and validated. What’s most rewarding for me, currently, are the connections I’m making promoting my book, doing virtual events. I’m meeting people from all over the country who exhibit the kindness and generosity for which the writing community is known.
 
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 not sure if it’s a technique, per se, but during revision, I often have at least two versions of a story and sometimes several options for a story scene. I also use copy/paste to move paragraphs around to see where they work best. My writing partner and critique group also weigh in on my revisions; their feedback is essential to my revision process.
 
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: What’s coming up next for me, Rosie, is a packed schedule of virtual events. I’m also teaching a picture book writing class this summer. Of course, I continue to write, revise, and maintain hope that I’ll have another manuscript accepted for publication.

Thank you so much, Valerie! What a pleasure to have you share your journey, tips, and future plans with us! I wish you all the best with this title as well as many more to come, and I hope you'll be back to talk to us and share more books soon!

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 Valerie Bolling:
Website: ​valeriebolling.com
Twitter: @valerie_bolling

​Let’s Dance! (Boyds Mills & Kane) is Valerie Bolling’s debut picture book. In addition to being an author, Valerie has been an educator for over 25 years. When she taught elementary students, it was difficult to find diverse literature for them. Thus, she is passionate about creating stories in which all children can see themselves and feel valued and heard.
A graduate of Tufts University and Columbia University, Teachers College, Valerie currently works as an Instructional Coach with middle and high school teachers.
 Valerie is a member of NCTE, SCBWI, the NESCBWI Equity and Inclusion Committee, the Authors Guild, the WNDB Mentorship Program, #12X12PB, 2020 Diverse Debuts, 20/20 Vision Picture Books, and a picture book critique group.
Valerie and her husband live in Connecticut and enjoy traveling, hiking, reading, going to the theater, and dancing. 

Hello, fantastic readers!

Once again, welcome to the Oasis ― it's great to have you visit! 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 accomplished creative on the KidLit Oasis series... Children's Author, Editor, and Publisher, Alayne Kay Christian is here to share some wisdom, insight, and inspiration with us! Plus, check out the giveaway at the end of this interview. 

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

A: Thank you for featuring me on your blog, Rosie. Wow! It would take an entire book to tell my whole journey story. It has been a long journey. I will do my best to be brief. At this point, I have several published books, so I will try to talk about my journey up to my most recent release An Old Man and His Penguin: How Dindim Made João Pereira de Souza an Honorary Penguin, illustrated by Milanka Reardon.

My journey to publication started with my first picture book, Butterfly Kisses for Grandma and Grandpa, which was released in 2009. It won some awards and got great reviews, so I thought for sure, this kid lit writing thing was going to be a breeze. I was wrong. I spent the next several years taking children’s book writing courses, attending SCBWI conferences and workshops, and getting involved in the online writing community. In 2013, I was on top of the world when I signed with an agent (my choice out of three agent offers). I knew for sure that I was going to conquer the kid lit world now! Well, once again, I was wrong. In 2015, I parted ways with the agent. That set me back for a couple of years. I did very little submitting, but I continued to write, study children’s book writing, and work to grow my online presence. I also started a professional critique service and wrote an independent-study picture book writing course, Art of Arc. I also started working as a critique ninja for Julie Hedlund’s 12 X 12, which I did for three years.

​In 2017, my chapter book series Sienna, the Cowgirl Fairy was launched with Trying to Make it Rain. I continued to study children’s book writing and submit. In 2018, I helped my husband relaunch Blue Whale Press and became the acquisitions editor and creative director. I also spent a year going back and forth with an agent who I thought was going to sign me for sure. Once again, I was wrong. We even had what I thought was the call. But it turned out to be a “let you down easy” call. She loved one of my stories, but didn’t fully connect with the others I offered. That set me back for a while. But I had so much going on with Blue Whale Press and my other writing related work that I didn’t have time to fall into negative thinking. In 2019, I started offering affordable children’s writing webinars. But even with all of the above, I also continued to study, write, and submit. It took thirteen years of hard work, but more than anything, perseverance, to be able to share the following wonderful news. By 2021, I will have four published picture books and two chapter books. And I recently received a rewrite and resubmit request on a picture book that I feel really confident about.

I tried to include what I consider to be major parts of my journey to demonstrate that it’s not necessarily just about writing and submitting. It’s about learning, growing, and finding ways to apply your knowledge and creative energy when it sometimes feels as though all has failed. And like in the stories that we write, finding ways through our darkest moments will lead us to a satisfying ending.
 
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: On the business side, I would say the gatekeepers—those who decide to offer an agent or publishing contract—is a huge challenge. That is one reason I sometimes find it difficult to be an acquisitions editor. I understand what it’s like to be on the other end of that. So, related to the gatekeepers, which so often leads to disappointment and self-doubt, the biggest challenge is believing in yourself and your work when it seems no one else does. On the creative side, the biggest challenge is nurturing a creative spirit that gets trapped in negative emotions that stem from the business side. Negativity does not nourish the spirit.

The most rewarding thing for me in the business is helping other writers and illustrators. But on a personal level related to my own writing, the biggest rewards come from touching the hearts and minds of people of all ages with my books. On the creative side, the most rewarding is learning and growing and realizing how far I have come since I first dove into kid lit writing. Oh, and I love seeing my words come alive through illustrations. When that happens, I sometimes can’t believe I wrote the story because the art has enhanced it so much. Thanks to artists Milanka Reardon, Polina Gortman, Blake Marsee, and Brian Martin for working your magic!

I stay motivated by being in critique groups, having writer friends that I can ask for help and commiserate with, and allowing myself the space to take a break sometimes from writing and submitting. Sometimes, all it takes is spending time doing something else to find answers to my blocks on works in progress and to get new ideas flowing. At that point, I feel refreshed and motivated to get back to doing what I love—writing.
 
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: At this point, my writing and revising almost come automatically. I’m a pantser not a plotter, but over the years, I’ve learned the value of understanding arc and storytelling structures. I believe that studying picture books or chapter books (or whatever age group you write for) is one of the most valuable tools to a writer. But, what I found when I was first starting out was I was reading picture books like crazy—about fifty a week. Experienced authors, agents, editors etc. often advise writers to read, read, read. But for me, just reading didn’t do the trick. I initially thought I would learn by osmosis. It wasn’t until I learned the importance of a powerful beginning and hook, an engaging tension-building middle, a satisfying ending, an emotional core and all the storytelling elements that achieve all of the above that I was able to analyze published picture books and learn from them. It also helps me analyze books that have other storytelling structures. So, I would say, read books about story development, follow blogs that offer writing tips, do searches when you don’t understand something you hear or read about story structure, take courses if you can, and join a good critique group. As you gradually gain knowledge and use that knowledge to analyze mentor texts and your own work, you will gain even more knowledge.
 
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 excited that Blue Whale Press became an imprint of Clear Fork Publishing on April 15, 2020. I believe there are lots more good things coming in the future.

My next picture book The Weed that Woke Christmas: The Mostly True Tale of the Toledo Christmas Weed, illustrated by Polina Gortman will be coming out in the early fall. It is the story of a small gesture that turned into a phenomenon that was seen around the world. Partly truth and partly fiction, it is based on the inspiring true story of how the Toledo Christmas Weed helped spread the giving spirit far beyond its traffic island home. All Weed wants is to be seen, but people are in too much of a hurry to notice each other, let alone Weed. Weed watches, wishes, and waits until finally someone does see it. With the help of a little girl and others, Weed discovers that there is something far bigger and more important than a little weed being noticed.

The next book in the Sienna, the Cowgirl Fairy series, Cowboy Trouble, illustrated by Blake Marsee, will be coming out later this summer. In this book, Aunt Rose is getting married, and guess who she’s asked to be her flower girl. Sienna’s sadder than a coyote without a howl. “I’d look mighty silly in a dress. I’d trip over my own feet in them fancy shoes. And I ain’t much good at manners neither.” Ma signs Sienna up for cowgirl charm school where Sienna discovers she’s even worse at being elegant than she thought she’d be. To make matters worse, Billy Bob and his band of bullies see Sienna in her charm school clothes and raise a ruckus. Maybe Sienna can teach those cowboys a thing or two about manners and poise. But can she learn enough at charm school to walk down the aisle without embarrassing herself and Aunt Rose?

My fourth picture book Faith Beneath the Bridge will be brought into the world by Clear Fork Publishing in 2021. Homelessness can be harrowing for a young girl, but Faith dreams, a boy cares, a snowfriend listens, and together they make the kind of magic that only hope, kindness, and friendship can conjure.

I’m hoping to share news about my fifth picture book in the near future. When time allows, I will be working on creating more webinars, writing courses, and updating Art of Arc.

Thank you, Alayne! it was great having you as a guest and hearing from you, especially when you share insights coming from two very different perspectives since you've been, and still are, sitting on both sides of the table. Wearing many hats in this business certainly makes for an interesting conversation and I'm glad we're able to give our readers this special behind-the-scenes.

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. Don't forget to support your local indie bookstores, too!

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

Connect with Alayne Kay Christian:
Website: https://alaynekaychristianauthor.com/
Twitter: @alayne_kay
Blog: https://alaynekaychristian.wordpress.com/

Alayne Kay Christian is the acquisitions editor for Blue Whale Press and an award-winning children’s book author. She is the creator and teacher of a picture book writing course Art of Arc. In addition, she shares her knowledge with writers through free and affordable webinars at Writing for Children Webinars. She has been a picture book and chapter book critique professional since 2014, and she worked as a 12 X 12 critique ninja for three years. Alayne has spent the last thirteen years studying under some of the top names in children’s literature. Alayne’s focus at Blue Whale Press is content editing, creative direction, and working with authors and illustrators to coordinate the path to quality books.

Hello, wonderful readers!

Welcome back to the Oasis ― 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, and I hope you'll keep coming back.

Now, 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 Katelyn Aronson is here to share some wisdom, insight, and inspiration with us! Plus, check out the giveaway and my FREE webinar offer at the end of this interview. 

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

A: Thank you, Rosie, for having me!

After “dabbling” in writing off and on most of my life, I finally got serious about becoming a children’s author 5 years ago. 2015 marked a time of relative calm in my life, and I felt ready to pursue that old dream, finally giving it the focus it demanded. During that first year, I wrote a few stories, paid for some professional critiques, and tried querying a couple of publishing houses on my own. When that didn’t work, I started looking around for other solutions.

I’m indebted to the “brain children” of two great ladies of the children’s book industry: picture book authors Tara Lazar and Julie Hedlund. First, I participated in Tara Lazar’s “PiBoIdMo” in November of 2015 (now called Storystorm), and filled a notebook full of ideas. A few months after that, I stumbled upon Julie Hedlund’s “12x12 Picture Book Challenge” in January of 2016 and enrolled, with all those brand new ideas ready to be fleshed out. I threw myself into the 12x12 program, finishing one new manuscript per month, sharing my stories on the community forum, and giving and getting peer feedback. By May of that year, I had already signed with agent Christa Heschke of McIntosh & Otis, the second-oldest literary agency in New York.

I expected my career to take off from there, but it didn’t. Things took time. It isn’t always easy for a newbie to get their work noticed. The industry is cyclical and the wheel is always turning. Picture book biographies were selling like crazy at the time. Then, non-fiction in general seemed to take over. Unfortunately for me, I was writing mostly character-driven fiction. Should I have switched genres? Maybe. But I knew that by the time I’d created some worthy non-fiction pieces, the market would have changed yet again! So I stuck to what I loved best. The waiting part was arduous, and I was tempted to give up on many occasions. Oh, was I glad I hadn’t when 2019 rolled around! My first offer came from Viking of Penguin Random House, for my debut Piglette, releasing this year (only a year after signing it over). Incredibly, four other offers followed within the same calendar year. Words cannot communicate what it means to see a life-long dream coming true at last. Only happy tears can.

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: No newsflash here: The most challenging thing in this business is all the waiting! I produce a steady stream of new manuscripts, and it’s hard to wait for each of these projects to be subbed/read/replied to in due course. My only coping mechanism is to “distract” myself by jumping into a new writing project.
If my motivation is running low, it helps to re-read a bunch of my favorite picture books. That makes me fall in love with the genre all over again, and sometimes even sparks new ideas.
​
The most rewarding moment for me is seeing my story come to life through an illustrator’s talent. I get a bit misty-eyed the first time I see my manuscript illustrated. Then there are those three magical moments when the book is finally born: 1) receiving your box of author copies in the mail, 2) seeing your book in an actual bookstore and 3) seeing your book in a child’s hands. At every stage, you realize all over again: it’s real!

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 a visual person, so I either storyboard my stories (actually sketching them out) or at the very least, I make a dummy to work out pacing and page turns.

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 had a couple of Piglette launch events scheduled for Paris this month, but everything has been postponed due to the pandemic! So I’ll be doing virtual events through indie bookstores in the US, and some in-person events in Switzerland. My first event scheduled is a virtual story time at “Mystery to Me” Bookstore in Madison, Wisconsin on Saturday, July 11th at 10:30 a.m. I’ll publish more details across social media soon!

Thank you so much for being my guest, Katelyn, and for your keeping-it-real answers! I appreciate the honest insight and I know our readers will, too. The ups and downs in this business can be quite contrasting and drastic indeed, and the waiting in between, truly excruciating, I agree. 

Readers, please support our featured authors/illustrators by following them on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook, requesting their books 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 Katelyn Aronson:

​Website: www.katelynaronson.com
Twitter: @MademoiselleK8
Instagram: @AuthorKatelyn
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/katelyn.aronson 

​Do you have a story idea for a children's book? Have you wondered about how to become a children's author? You might think writing a picture book is easy, but you may be surprised.
​
So how do you turn your idea into a good story by today's publishing standards? Do you know the current market and audience, and how to develop your idea into a publishable story? How do you even get started in children's publishing -- mistakes to avoid, the most important steps to take, what you need to know about writing for children. 
​
This seminar will answer all of these questions and introduce you to the craft and business of children's writing.

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.
​
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