Erika, what did you think of the story when you were approached about illustrating it? What attracted you to the book? Why did you decide to get on board?

EJ. I love it because it was the type of story I might have liked to write, but I didn’t think of it. In other words, it was my vibe (humorous, quirky character and just lots of unexpected fun) and it was being presented by a great publisher and editorial team, so I said yes. I could also relate to the main character’s passion for books. As a child I loved reading books and spending time in libraries, bookmobiles and bookstores as a little girl. So, I knew I could tap into that enthusiasm and add to this story.

Finally, I felt the story stretched me and my imagination about what was possible in a picture book in really positive ways.
 
That's amazing -- I love the way you connected to the story!

​Were there any challenges in the process of telling the visual story? I know that the author and the illustrator are typically not in direct contact. Was that the case with this project? Or did you have any communication with Jenna while working on the illustrations?

EJ. We did not have contact during the illustration process. Jenna did have a chance to give feedback after the first round of sketches and again when the final art was turned in, but that was all communicated via our editor, Kristie Choi and the art director, Karyn Lee.

Jenna, when did you first see what your main character looked like? What was it like compared to the image that you had in your mind perhaps?

JB: When the “first look” for Penelope was sent, it was such a special moment. Being able to see Penelope for the first time after imagining her so long in my own imagination was absolutely wonderful. Erika perfectly captured her energy and spirit and I think I even said out loud: “there she is!” ​

Hello, writers, artists, readers, educators, parents.... and all!

Thank you for being here! Remember, this is a place to refresh your mind, recharge your spirit, and get literary inspired!

And what a double treat I have for you on KidLit Oasis this week! I am so excited to be talking with a pair of creators, author Beth Anderson and Illustrator Anne Lambelet, and their amazing newly released picture book, CLOAKED IN COURAGE: UNCOVERING DEBORAH SAMPSON, PATRIOT SOLDIER. 

Welcome, Beth and Anne! I can't wait to hear about your collaboration and all the juicy details, the behind-the-scenes in the creation of this book, and the wisdom you have to share with my readers. I know we will all be inspired and enriched by your journey with this book. 

Beth, please tell us how the idea for this story came about? Walk us through the writing and revising process – how many drafts, how long it took to complete it, when did you share with your agent etc.

BA: I had come across Deborah Sampson in the past but wasn’t grabbed by what little I knew about her. Then in 2019, an article appeared about a diary that was found with a reference to Sampson’s failed attempt at enlisting. This caught my attention, because primary source discoveries do that, and suddenly I considered her challenges. It was clearly a story that needed to be told, but I didn’t have any idea of how to tell it… and I wasn’t hooked emotionally. I started researching in the summer of 2019. After only one draft in October 2019, I was totally stuck. I focused on Sampson as a mystery, inviting the reader to imagine with me and question the various aspects of her story—because the research raised so many questions due to a lot of misinformation. But it was distant and really didn’t work.

In January 2020 I prepared for the release of LIZZIE DEMANDS A SEAT, a series of school visits, a conference, and a trip to NYC. Then Covid hit. For a while, I couldn’t get words on the page. At the end of April, I picked up the Sampson manuscript and tried again. I needed to work on something. The research became a lesson in historical detective work and required me to search farther and wider. After lots more digging, I began to find the person. And then, I was hooked. After about 15 revisions, I shared it with my agent. (But really, it was still not ready.)
 
Let’s hear about the submission process. How long did it take from submission to offer? How did you get the news? Where were you at that moment? Can you give us the juicy details around that?

BA: We did an exclusive submission in July 2020 to Carolyn Yoder at Calkins Creek. I’d worked with her on five other books. Because it only went to one editor, it played out a bit differently than usual. It was basically an R&R&R&R&R&R. I took it through 8-10 more revisions, sharing a few along the way with the editor, before receiving an offer in October. And then, of course, a few more revisions under contract.

I had shifted how I attacked a draft with this story, and I think it resulted in more pre-writing and fewer revisions initially, though it still ended up close to my usual 30. As we all were adjusting to a new normal, this manuscript just happened differently. I was mentally a bit clogged in that first year of the pandemic, and publishing seemed to slow. But the editor’s interest kept me going. So many challenges with this story!
 
When did you find out who the illustrator was and what were your thoughts about the pairing?

BA: I always ask my agent, Stephanie Fretwell-Hill about illustrators, and share our thoughts when the editor asks about my vision. Anne is also one of Stephanie’s clients, and her name came up immediately. Her style seemed a great fit, and I loved her work. And so did the editor!
 
Anne, what did you think of the story when you were approached about illustrating it? What attracted you to the book? Why did you decide to get on board?

AL: I was immediately excited by the manuscript! I love empowering stories about strong, female characters, and it was even more exciting knowing that Deborah Sampson was a real — but mostly unknown— historical figure.  The book felt like an opportunity to shed some light on a woman who deserved more widespread attention and admiration. I also live in Philadelphia, a city bursting with revolutionary war-era history that I’ve developed a lot of pride in, so I was also very excited to create art for that time period. 
 
Were there any challenges in the process of telling Deborah’s story in the art? Did you collaborate with Beth while working on the illustrations?

AL: I’d say the biggest challenge for me was making sure that everything was completely historically accurate. Illustrating a book can often feel like directing a film. You have the script, but in every image, you need to design costumes, dress sets, furnish props, cast actors. There are so many small details to consider, and, with non-fiction, that takes a lot of research. It’s crucial that each choice be correct for the time period, whether it be as important as the color of a military uniform or as seemingly insignificant as what side dish is sitting out on a dining table. Though our editor served as a go-between for Beth and me, there was a lot of back and forth between us — as well as an additional historical expert — to make sure that I was depicting this era just right. ​

Beth, when did you first see what Deborah’s character looked like in sketches? What was it like compared to the image that you had in your mind perhaps?

BA: I saw the first dummy in April 2021. Amazing! The only historical images of Deborah Sampson are crudely done and not flattering—no photographs exist. Consequently, I didn’t have a detailed image in my mind, just someone likeable and, I guess, average. Anne’s rendering nailed it—a rather plain woman, yet both strong and vulnerable, that lets the reader think she could be anyone and makes her ability to pass as a man believable. 
 
Anne, what was your favorite spread to illustrate and why?

AL: There were several spreads that I really enjoyed working on, but my favorite was probably the battle scene where Deborah gets shot in the leg. The text on the spread was charged with so much urgency and energy that, even on the first read-through of the manuscript, images for that particular excerpt were already popping into my head. I loved piecing together all the little vignettes so that the reader’s eye flows across the spread through Beth’s words, hopefully evoking the same movement and action. Plus, I love drawing trees, so it also felt fun and spontaneous letting those hints of landscape fill in the background. 

Beth, what was your favorite spread when you saw the complete dummy and why?

BA: The opening spread is my favorite. Initially, it was on one page, when it was expanded to the full spread, and when I saw it in color….WOW!! The depth of the art that I already felt beautifully introduced us to Deborah and the idea that she was sort of “uncontainable” was amazing. The opening text poses a large, complicated question—what makes us who we are? I had to introduce the reader to this child and the context of the time in as few words as possible, but words that would make you want to turn the page. I couldn’t even imagine how an illustrator would support that big, complicated idea. Anne’s art so perfectly brings the idea home, lets us see this child, and immerses us in emotion. There is SO MUCH in that spread! It gives me goosebumps!

This question is for both of you, Beth, and Anne. What do you hope readers will take away from the book? What do you wish for this story to accomplish in the hands of children?

BA: With all the stories I tell, I hope kids will widen their view of the world just a bit and see that everyone is a part of history. This is so much what Sampson’s story is about. How she wanted more than she was handed, saw herself as capable, and pushed past gender roles. And mostly how she turned challenges into chances. I want kids to see possibility in their own lives and know they are capable beings.

AL: I hope that readers see the importance of staying strong no matter the obstacles, of believing in yourself even if the rest of society seems against you, and, finally, that gender does not define a person’s capacity for dedication, hard work, bravery and perseverance.

My final question is for both of you again. What’s next for you? What coming up, what are you working on, any new projects we should be on the lookout for, any upcoming events you’d like to share around the launch?

BA: Anne and I “met” with Old Firehouse Books in Fort Collins, CO, for a virtual chat on Facebook Live to celebrate our launch. If you missed it, please look for the link to the recording on my website. It’s truly special for an author and illustrator to get an opportunity to discuss a book and ask all the questions they wondered about in the process of creating it.
​
I’m very excited about THOMAS JEFFERSON’S BATTLE FOR SCIENCE: BIAS, TRUTH, AND A MIGHTY MOOSE which releases in fall 2023. The illustrations by Jeremy Holmes are fabulous! I’m awaiting the final art and just know it will blow me over. There’s nothing I love more than a story with history, humor, AND science! 

HIDING IN PLAIN SIGHT: KATE WARNE AND THE RACE TO SAVE PRESIDENT LINCOLN is currently with illustrator Sally Wern Comport. I can’t wait to see the sketches! And I’m working on final revisions for a story, as yet unannounced, about another amazing young woman. My desk is currently covered with articles and timelines and notes and books on my next WIP as I eke out a first draft, the hardest part for me.

AL: I’m currently illustrating a non-fiction picture book by Penny Parker Klostermann about another strong, female, historical figure named Nan Songer. She raised spiders during WWII and harvested their silk which she then sold to the US military for use in gun sights. I am also very excited to announce that I’m currently beginning work on my first graphic novel for which I am both the author and the illustrator. This book is a non-fiction tour of the amazing abilities of cephalopods, and the readers’ guide on the tour is an adorable dumbo octopus named Grimpy. My biggest upcoming project however is that, in November, I’ll become a mom for the first time! With a baby arriving so soon, publication dates for the Nan Songer book and the octopus graphic novel aren’t until 2025.

Huge congrats on all fronts, Anne! Doesn't get more exciting than that!! And wow, Beth, you are on fire for sure! I can't wait to see all those books, too!

Thank you both for being my guests on KidLit Oasis -- it was such a pleasure chatting with you, and I wish you many more successes, lots of joy in everything you do, and tons of creative bliss!

Beth Anderson, a former educator, has always marveled at the power of books. With linguistics and reading degrees, a fascination with language, and a penchant for untold tales, she strives for accidental learning in the midst of a great story. Beth lives in Loveland, Colorado where she laughs, ponders, and questions; and hopes to inspire kids to do the same. She’s the award-winning author of CLOAKED IN COURAGE, FRANZ’S PHANTASMAGORICAL MACHINE, REVOLUTIONARY PRUDENCE WRIGHT, TAD LINCOLN’S RESTLESS WRIGGLE, “SMELLY” KELLY AND HIS SUPER SENSES, LIZZIE DEMANDS A SEAT!, and AN INCONVENIENT ALPHABET. Beth has more historical picture books on the way.​

​Anne Lambelet earned her bachelor’s degree in illustration from the University of the Arts in 2014. After graduating she immediately dove into her career as a freelance illustrator working with clients such as HarperCollins, Scholastic, Simon & Schuster and Owlcrate. Her first author-illustrated picture book, Maria the Matador, was published in 2019, and she’s been both writing and illustrating books for young readers ever since. She lives in Philadelphia with her husband, her adorable dog, Eevee, her obese (but also adorable) cat Fitzgerald, and, very soon, a brand new baby. She is currently represented by Stephanie Fretwell-Hill of Red Fox Literary. 

Connect with Anne:
Website: http://www.annelambelet.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/annelambelet/

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

Thank you, Rosie, for welcoming me to your Chitchat series on KidLit Oasis.
​
It’s so valuable for writers, pre-published or multi-published, to read about journeys to publication because they are each so unique! Every creative should keep in mind that each person’s path contains bumps and turns, but also joys and celebrations. Here are a few highlights of mine…

I’ve enjoyed writing since I was a child. Being an author was my dream ever since my third-grade teacher assigned us to write and illustrate our own picture books. The PTA moms made our stories into real books from donated fabric and cereal boxes. I will never forget holding that book in my hands!

Fast forward thirty years, I reconsidered that dream while living in Belgium. During my graduate and teaching years in the States, I had written, published, and won recognition for my adult poetry. But having children sparked once again my dream of publishing a picture book.

I spent years writing bedtime stories and then years revising those stories. While querying, I was often told that they were “too quiet.” So, I wrote some “less quiet” stories, two of which were published as early readers. I also wrote a couple middle grade manuscripts.

I eventually queried an agent with a middle grade novel, who then asked to see any picture books manuscripts I had. I sent her a few. And in the end, this agent, Essie White of Storm Literary Agency, signed me as a client because she loved my quieter, more literary stories. 
​
It may have taken more years than I could have ever anticipated for Teddy Let’s Go! to be published, but it did find the perfect publishing home at Enchanted Lion Books. I am so thrilled that readers everywhere will be able to meet Teddy on December 6, 2022.

Would you walk us through the experience of getting the news of your publishing offer? How long after submission did it happen? Were you aware that it went to acquisitions or was it a surprise? How did you get the news (email, phone call, text) and where were you/what were you doing when that happened? What was your immediate reaction? Who was the first person you shared the news with? I'm always curious about how other authors experienced this particular moment of "The News" so, please give us all the juicy details! :)
 
Teddy Let’s Go! went on submission in Spring 2016. And then one afternoon in Fall 2018, I was writing in my office when an email popped up from my agent. I read it several times to make sure I hadn’t misunderstood! Claudia Zoe Bedrick at Enchanted Lion Books wanted to publish Teddy Let’s Go! and Nahid Kazemi was already on board to illustrate it!

Almost immediately after responding to Essie, I sent an email to my husband, and I couldn’t wait to pick up my daughters from school! But other than them, no one could know.
​
Because Claudia is the publisher at ELB, the manuscript didn’t go to an acquisitions meeting. But paperwork and contracts take time. So, I didn’t sign a contract until the following Spring 2019. The deal was finally listed in Publisher’s Weekly, and I could share the news with everyone… What a hard secret to keep! 
​

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?

The most challenging aspect of publishing is the business side because so much is out of the author’s control. All we can do, as writers or illustrators, is to keep learning, growing, and producing our best work. It’s difficult, if not impossible, to know what trends will be in the marketplace. As writers, we can’t, nor should we, control how quickly illustrations get done.

Although publishing is a slow process, there are many rewards along the way: crafting the perfect phrase or metaphor, meeting a fellow creative that becomes a dear friend, having the opportunity to learn from more experienced authors, finally connecting with the dream agent, … and then of course getting that email and phone call to talk about the publisher who wants your work. I feel very privileged to be able to know and work with Claudia and the team at Enchanted Lion. I’ve admired their books for years! It’s greatly satisfying to be publishing Teddy Let’s Go! with ELB.

What helps me stay motivated is the craft of writing. I really enjoy it! I love putting myself in my characters’ shoes, joining them on adventures, discovering their lives (fiction and NF), and imagining the readers who might need their stories.

Another motivation is hearing about other people’s creative journeys. We’re all in this together no matter how different our paths are. Particularly in the kid lit community, the camaraderie and encouragements I’ve received along the way have been invaluable.
 
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? 

When I have a new idea for a picture book, I write it all down without stopping to edit. It’s often a long mess of words. But then I get to edit, and I enjoy editing. I see the first draft as a blob of clay or chunk of stone that needs sculpted and chipped away. I find that fun.

However, when writing a novel, I’ll write as much as I can in a day. When I go back to it, I reread what I’ve written, edit a bit, and then continue writing. Usually about five to ten chapters in, I’ll have a really good idea of my characters, setting, and what I want to happen. At that point, I write a rough outline before going any further with the manuscript.

No matter the manuscript, I’ll revise until I can’t see where else I can improve it. This is when I share it with critique partners. When no one has any other suggestions that can improve the work, I’ll do another read-through and send it to Essie. She gives wonderful feedback. So, I consider her comments and make necessary changes. 
 
Looking back, what do you consider your biggest publishing career accomplishment so far? What are some of the things you'd like to accomplish in the next year from now?

My biggest accomplishment is not quitting.

At least for a year before signing with Storm Literary, I would ask myself monthly, “When do I stop?” And then someone, a critique partner, another writer, or feedback from webinar or conference would say just what I needed to hear to go one more month. To anyone reading this who is nodding their head, relating to the doubts, let this be your “don’t stop” message. If you’re reading this, you care enough about your craft and your audience to keep going.

What I’d like to accomplish in the next year from now is to polish my MG verse novel and have it ready for submission (hopefully in the next few months). I also have a new idea for a picture book in verse I would like to explore.

What is your vision for this book? What kind of impact do you hope it would have on readers?

I envision my book being shared with grandparents, parents, children, and siblings at home, in school, and at library readings. I hope it reaches an audience who appreciates it and that it brings them joy. I hope the story touches readers’ hearts and helps them feel loved and know they have a lot of love to give as well. 
​

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

Teddy Let’s Go! releases December 6, but I’m having a special pre-launch event at my local bookstore, Park Road Books in Charlotte, NC on November 19. My December calendar is filling up with local events, but I am looking forward to travel and virtual events in the new year as well.

​Michelle Nott is a dual-nationality author who finds inspiration in her family, her travels, and particularly in American and French literature, culture, and art. Born in the United States, Michelle has also lived in France and in Belgium.

Michelle taught French (pre-K, elementary, high school, and college) and Creative Writing (high school) before focusing her attention on writing for children. She finds crafting picture books an ideal way to combine her love and respect for children, language, and fine art. She strives to share this passion with readers of all ages.
Teddy Let’s Go! is Michelle’s third book for children and her debut picture book. She lives with her husband, two daughters, and their rescue dog.

Connect with Michelle:

https://www.authormichellenott.com/home
Twitter: @MimiLRN

Hello, KidLit Oasis fans, friends, and new visitors!

I am so excited to be chatting with my guest today, because I've known her for quite a while now, and we've been through a lot together, have become friends, critiques partners, and agent-sisters (again!). So, it's a real pleasure to feature her picture book debut, to celebrate her publishing-dream-come-true and to have her share her path leading up to this moment, so that her story inspires many aspiring authors out there, too. 

And without further ado....

Welcome, Emily! How awesome is it that you're here, and we get to share your book joy with the world?! You're also giving my readers the scoop and I can't wait for everyone to hear about what it's been like for you being a writer, how you got started, and what events led to the birth of this book-baby. So, please briefly describe your journey to publication.

A: My first introduction to writing came in second grade with Mrs. Lavender in Young Author’s Club. I wrote several titles like The Silly Crocdeil [sic] and captivating stories like The Wagon that are, sadly, not likely to be published. Ha! My love for writing reignited as an adult after moving to the third state in six years, and I needed an outlet. From there, I joined SCBWI (Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators) to help make friends and have a hobby just for myself. Several incredible critique partners, three agents, and too-many-rejections-to-count later, my debut picture book is being published on February 22, 2023!

Q: Would you walk us through the experience of getting the news of your publishing offer? How long after submission did it happen? Were you aware that it went to acquisitions or was it a surprise? How did you get the news (email, phone call, text) and where were you/what were you doing when that happened? What was your immediate reaction? Who was the first person you shared the news with? I'm always curious about how other authors experienced this particular moment of "The News" so, please give us all the juicy details! :)

It was the most average, nothing-going-on evening. I happened to be visiting my parents, and we were sitting on the sofa with the TV on in the background while we all scrolled our devices. It's true what they say that often the most extraordinary moments often occur when we least expect them. 

An email popped up from Molly, my editor at Yeehoo Press, and I [reluctantly] opened it, thinking it would be yet another rejection. 

But it wasn't. 

My breath hitched. I stood. I mumbled, "Oh my gosh..." 

My parents and husband looked up at me, and didn't say anything, waiting for me to say what I was reading on my phone (probably it was something from a news article or social media!). 

I said, "I'm going to be published." Just like that. That simple, that still, that dream-affirming, that life-changing.

Then the tears flowed, the congratulations poured out, and it was all celebration after that!

It took about two months from when I pitched to them, and they made an offer. It was very fast for industry standards and a complete surprise! I had no idea it had gone to acquisitions.

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: Most challenging has to be the waiting. I used to say the rejections, but rejections at least mean someone is reading and responding to what’s being written. There’s progress in rejections. But waiting for any kind of response can feel like a silent torture of sorts—is it any good? Is it garbage? Did my edits make a difference? The mind can make up all kinds of scenarios to explain the industry silence, and needless to say, we’re often our harshest critics. 😊

Most rewarding are the friendships made along the way. There’s something innately bonding powering through the sludge of rejections with others by your side and going on a journey of indescribably bad odds together. We’re tethered together when we weather the publishing storms as critique groups, agent-siblings, and overall writing besties and soldier on anyway. When one of us makes it, it motivates the rest of to not give up.

To stay motivated? I write almost every day. It doesn’t have to be a high word count, or several chapters revised. Sometimes it’s new concepts or even a stream of consciousness on walks in my Notes app. After over 25 picture books and four completed novels, I love the feeling of “having just written” as Robert Hass once described as the only tolerable state of writing. Ha! I’m not sure it’s the only tolerable part, but the act of creating something from nothing—and to know there’s power in the statement, something transformative that may connect me with a reader—is a sublime.

​Art by Albert Arrayas

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: When writing novels, I wish I could say I’m a “panster” meaning I write by the seat of my pants. 😊 The creative juices just flow from my fingertips, and I’m lost to the writing. But that’s not me! I’m a “plotter” meaning I outline the heck out of my stuff. I have Excel sheets with chapter outlines, plot points, character details (cars they drive, hair and eye color, personality quarks, etc.) and I’m meticulous in my outlining. Novel writing is an exercise in gradually swelling core concept, sanding down rough-edged plot points to make a well-rounded story arc.

For picture book writing, it’s about trusting your audience (those little readers who are wise beyond their years!). Instead of focusing on what I want to tell young people, I think about how I want to be a part of their experience. We’re all just young people in bigger bodies, so what are the elements of empathy in all experience that are longing to be shared? I’m always looking for those. Humor helps. 😊

My best advice for anyone looking for tips and tricks to get started or improve their craft is to read-read-read and read some more. Study it. Break it down. Reading is a masterclass in writing. There is always something you can learn from someone else who’s been there before.
 
Q: What do you consider your biggest publishing career accomplishment so far? On the flip side, what are some of the things you'd like to accomplish in the next year from now?

A: I’m proud to be a two-time, award-winning picture book writer from the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI) in two different writing contests I entered. It’s a tremendous privilege to be acknowledged by professionals (agents, editors, and fellow authors) who evaluate entries.

This year I was also shortlisted in the Maggie Award, the annual Romance Writers of America, Georgia Chapter contest, for the best Mainstream Fiction with a Central Romance category. I’ll be attending a Gala in October where the winner will be announced. I can’t wait!
​
My goals for the coming year include more publishing deals (obviously!) and breaking into the adult fiction market with my romance novels. I’d love to see my debut picture book, Opal’s Springtime Birdhouse, hit the bestseller lists too!

​Art by Albert Arrayas

Q: What is your vision for this book? What kind of impact do you hope it would have on readers?

A: I hope Opal’s Springtime Birdhouse, my debut coming out in February, ignites a renewed interest in woodworking and carpentry for girls. Power tools, building, craftsmanship, etc. as an angle of STEM that’s often overlooked. Somebody’s got to build the bookshelves that hold all the books! Might as well be the readers themselves. 😊
 
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 preorders have started for Opal’s Springtime Birdhouse, and I’m looking for author visits! My publisher, Yeehoo Press, is also creating birdhouse craft kits to go along with the book’s release for added engagement and turning reading into application. It’s been such a pleasure working with Yeehoo Press with all their expertise and engagement.
​
Hopefully I’ll get to share with you good news about my other works my agent, Jennifer Herrington, and I have on submission in the coming months. Fingers crossed!

​

About Emily


Emily Matheis is a two-time, award-winning picture book author through the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI) and romance writer shortlisted for the Maggie Award. She writes books for both children and adults with women and girls in intelligent, adaptable, and exemplifying roles that surpass the bounds of gender stereotypes.

Connect with Emily:

Website: www.emilymatheis.com
Instagram: @emilymatheisauthor 
TikTok: @emilymatheisauthor 
Twitter: @emilymahdice 

Steena Hernandez (a copy of the book)
Lynn McCracken (PB critique)
 C O N G R A T U L A T I O N S ! ! !

Welcome back, Patricia Newman! Thank you for returning to the KidLit Oasis as my guest—which means you liked my hospitality the first time ☺, but it also means you have a new book coming out that you'll be sharing with our readers! Congratulations!

So, first, let me ask you this: I know that every book is special to its author in a particular way—how is this book special to you? Dear to your heart in a different way? What was the experience like, compared to previous ones?

A: Hi, Rosie. Thanks for that warm welcome. Like most of my books, A RIVER’S GIFTS happened by accident. In the fall of 2018, my husband was chatting with a colleague about what her college-aged triplets did over the summer. She mentioned that Theo, one of the triplets, worked on the Elwha River Restoration in Washington. Engineers had just breached two dams to drain Lake Aldwell above the one-hundred-year-old Elwha Dam and Lake Mills above the eighty-five-year-old Glines Canyon Dam. Theo helped replant the barren lakebed with native seeds and seedlings, one member of a small army of botanists and volunteers who would go on to plant 400,000 plants on 800 acres of lakebed over seven years.

After hearing about this amazing effort, my husband came home and said here’s your next book. His instincts are good after living with me for thirty-eight years, so, I started digging. Every fascinating piece of information I found led to more questions, which led to more digging.
​
I gravitate toward these complex environmental stories with several stakeholders. For A RIVER’S GIFTS, I worked with a scientist at the Olympic National Park and several different members of the Lower Elwha Klallam Tribe, aka The Strong People. I loved that the Elwha’s story focuses on environmental justice and our connection to nature. The river’s restoration was a community effort characterized by hope and renewal. One reviewer called A RIVER’S GIFTS an example of rewilding, and I completely agree.

Is there an interesting behind-the-scenes about the idea for the story, its creation, an unusual journey to publication perhaps? What stands out?

A: One particularly thorny question we had was: Did The Strong People build weirs across the Elwha to trap fish? Sources at the National Park said probably not because the Elwha is a fast-moving river, but tribal sources said the weirs were likely. A tribal librarian found the proof for me, but to complicate matters, that proof was not scheduled to be publicly released until after A RIVER’S GIFTS was published. I had a decision to make. I went with the tribe’s traditional knowledge, knowing that someday verifiable documents would also be available to support the tribal wisdom.

Q: And to piggyback on the questions above, did anything surprise you with this book or the publisher's approach (whether it was the same publisher or a new one)? Did you learn anything new? Was it harder or easier to bring the book into the world?

A: I always learn a ton of new stuff when writing a book. I LOVE research and I think that’s the main reason I write nonfiction. As I mentioned, nature is a particular interest of mine because most of us don’t understand our connections to nature and how it supports us. Whenever I find a story that highlights CONNECTION, I need to know more.
​
If you are familiar with Planet Ocean, Sea Otter Heroes, Eavesdropping on Elephants, Zoo Scientists to the Rescue or Plastic, Ahoy!, you know those books are for middle-grade readers and illustrated with photos. With A RIVER’S GIFTS, I proposed something brand new to my editor, Carol Hinz at Millbrook Press/Lerner. I knew this book needed to be illustrated because the story begins thousands of years ago when the Elwha River first formed. I also proposed a 48-page picture book format, which is much longer than the standard 32-page picture book. Add to those changes, a completely new, lyrical writing style to mimic the river’s flow that Carol had never seen from me before. I admit I took a calculated risk, but I wrote my proposal to show why the book needed these elements, which I hoped justified the extra production expense. 

​Q: When did you find out who the illustrator was for the project and were you asked for an input? What was it like working with the illustrator for this book? When did you first see the art and what was your reaction?

A: Yes, definitely. Carol proposed Natasha Donovan as the illustrator right from the start. I immediately knew she was right for the project. Natasha is Métis and lives near the Elwha River, so the Pacific Northwest flora and fauna are in her blood. The cover image of her website shows young salmon in a river habitat!
​
I first saw sketches from Natasha. Sketches with bold dark lines but no color. Even in her sketches Natasha recreated the rough and tumble of the river. I was hooked, but when she added color, I fell in love with the spreads. They perfectly capture the movement and beauty of the Elwha River and its importance to The Strong People’s culture, livelihood, and spirituality.

Q: What do you hope to accomplish within the next 2-3 years? Any specific goals or aspirations—personal or writing related—that you could share with us?

A: I want to keep showing up for nature, finding hidden connections to help readers appreciate and understand why the environment is worth saving.

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

A: I have proposals written for two other amazing nature stories, so cross your fingers that editors like them!
​
In my immediate future I will be presenting a one-hour webinar for Writing Blueprints on creating a nonfiction children’s book proposal. After that I am traveling to Georgia to speak to preservice teachers about the wonders of nonfiction: the components of today’s nonfiction and how to use it in the classroom to teach writing and to support content area instruction.

Hello KidLit Oasis friends!

I am so excited to be chatting with debut author Francie Dekker and to celebrate her upcoming picture book, Our World of Dumplings, illustrated by Sarah Jung!

I hope you'll get inspired by her journey and find some takeaways that can be helpful to you on yours. :) And there's a giveaway, too!

So, let's get to it!

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

A: Everyone says publishing your first book takes a long time, and that’s the truth! I started researching and writing Our World of Dumplings back in 2017. Researching dumplings and deciding which ones to include in the book took the most time! Once I finished the original manuscript in 2018, I joined the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators to figure out how to find a publisher. SCBWI has so many resources including The Book - The Essential Guide to Publishing for Children. From there I determined that I wanted to go the traditional publishing route and started reaching out to literary agents. I eventually signed with Ariana Philips at Jean V. Naggar Literary Agency. Ariana sent out the manuscript to publishers and OUR WORLD OF DUMPLINGS was purchased by Little Bee Books in December 2020. The book will be published on September 6th, 2022, so from start to finish, it took about 5 years to publish!

Q: Would you walk us through the experience of getting the news of your publishing offer? How long after submission did it happen? Were you aware that it went to acquisitions or was it a surprise? How did you get the news from your agent (email, phone call, text) and where were you/what were you doing when that happened? What was your immediate reaction? I'm always curious about how other authors experienced this particular moment of "The News" so, please give us all the juicy details! :)

A: Great question!
​
It was about 4 months after my agent had started showing the manuscript around. We had received positive feedback but no bites. On the morning of moving to a new house, I quickly checked my email while waiting for the movers to arrive. I was shocked to see the email from Ariana with news of the offer from little bee books. My husband saw the look on my face and asked what was wrong. I was speechless at first but finally managed to shout, "I got a book deal!" I was pregnant at the time with baby number two, but he bought a nice bottle of wine to celebrate the exciting book news after the baby came. Fast forward, with two toddlers we have yet to open the bottle, haha, but maybe we'll find a quiet moment to enjoy around the book launch!

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: With my first title due out on September 6th, the thing I’m finding the most challenging lately is determining where to put my efforts during this book launch. There are so many potential things to do, and so little time. I’m very thankful for my publisher, Little Bee Books, supporting me during this process. Between book launch and two toddlers at home, the biggest challenge on the creative side of things has been finding time to write this summer. I’m constantly working to find balance between all these aspects and my goal this fall is to get back into a writing routine. ​

​Q: Can 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 love the initial idea burst and getting all my thoughts down quickly, and then slowly, refining the story. I’ve learned/am still learning the joy and value in taking my time. I’ll write a draft then come back to it a week or month later with a fresh set of eyes. I try to let wonderful feedback from my critique group marinate before making changes. I’ll read a manuscript out loud to several people to hear how it sounds. It really is pleasurable to make a little tweak here and there and shape the story overtime.

One great tool I find myself going back to often when revising a story is a webinar from Pat Zietlow Miller When Less is More: Cutting the Fluff to Find What You Really Want to Say.
 
Q: What do you consider your biggest publishing career accomplishment so far? On the flip side, what are some of the things you'd like to accomplish in the next year from now?

A: Successfully navigating the publishing industry and arriving at the launch of my first book, Our World of Dumplings, due out on September 6th.

This time next year, I’d like to have a second book under contract :)
 
Q: What is your vision for this book? What kind of impact do you hope it would have on readers?

A: I love exploring, cooking and eating cuisines from around the world. In doing so, I realized how many cultures have their own variation on a dumpling. As a child, I never appreciated my family’s Polish food traditions. I was inspired to write OUR WORLD OF DUMPLINGS as a way to connect young readers to their food heritage, as well as to expose youth to similar dishes from around the world. While we may come from different places, and speak many languages, I believe the best way to get to know someone is over a plate of something delicious.
 
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: After this book launch, I’m looking forward to working on my long list of story ideas that have been on the back burner this summer!

For folks interested in attending the Our World of Dumplings book launch event, feel free to sign up for my newsletter or follow me on Instagram @franciedekker

​Francie Dekker is a children’s book author based in Southeastern Wisconsin. As contributing writer for Edible Milwaukee magazine, she wrote a quarterly “Kids Table” column that explored how gardening, food, culture, and youth intersect. In 2016, she received a Food Writing Fellowship from the Culinary Trust. Our World of Dumplings is her debut picture book. Franciedekkerbooks.com

Hello, everyone!
​
I am so excited to host this wonderful author, joining me on the Chitchat series!

​Welcome, June! Thank you for being my quest on KidLit Oasis! Please briefly describe your journey to publication. 

JS: The road feels like it passed in a blink, but it was long and winding. I started writing seriously in 2013. That is when I said, “Someday I’ll make money from this and see my books on shelves.” I joined SCBWI and slowly entered the realm of writers.
 
In about a year I sold my first book, but that publisher was purchased by another company and the book was never published. It wasn’t until late 2017 that I had interest from another editor on a new manuscript. In the year that followed I sold my debut book, ODD ANIMAL ABC’S, two educational work-for-hires, and the second trade book SHE LEADS: THE ELEPHANT MATRIARCH.
 
And of course, now I’m introducing my latest book HE LEADS: MOUNTAIN GORILLA, THE GENTLE GIANT.
 
Q: I can't wait to read that one! 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?

JS: Publishing is static. You may have radio silence for six months, you may get three contracts in the next six months. It isn’t like a 9-5 job that is predictable and constant.
 
I stay motivated because I have to daydream, I can’t function without it. Those ideas in my head are sometimes crap, but every now and again one is shiny and rough. You can see the potential! You have to see where it goes. 
 
Plus, nothing is more rewarding than doing author visits and seeing kids get excited about your books, the topics you discuss together, and the ideas they come up with thanks, in part, to you as an artist. We are building readers and thinkers and artists and that is pretty cool.
 
Q: It certainly is, I absolutely agree there! 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?

JS: When I finally stopped trying to get a story perfect on the first try, I became a better writer. 

Sometimes I have to take one idea and write it from a different character’s POV, or go from humorous and goofy to lyrical and serious, or play with the structure itself. It is a lot more work, but I get to know my story better this way. 
 
I look back at what I kept in every version. That is the heart of my story. Once I figure that out I can focus better during the revisions.
 
Q: What do you consider your biggest publishing career accomplishment so far? On the flip side, what are some of the things you'd like to accomplish in the next year from now? 

JS: I think getting a Kirkus starred review and going into a second printing before my pub date with SHE LEADS was a huge accomplishment. And SHE LEADS becoming a series was amazing.

For the next year, I’m hoping to find an agent who gets my work, both sweet and lyrical, and pun-filled goofiness. I’m looking for the long haul and want a solid partner along the way.
 
Q: That is impressive indeed! Congratulations! And I'm rooting for you finding that perfect partner soon. What is your vision for your new book? What kind of impact do you hope it would have on readers?

JS: For HE LEADS: MOUNTAIN GORILLA, THE GENTLE GIANT and the whole LEADS series, I hope they help make kids curious about amazing animals, makes them want to help and protect endangered animals, and most importantly, I want them to think about what makes a good leader.

The silverback gorilla is strong enough to flip a car, but he’ll play gently with the young. He has canine teeth as long as your finger, but he’ll fade into the forest with his troop to avoid confrontation.
​
It isn’t just the biggest and toughest. It is the smart, patient, protective, calm, caring that helps keep their groups or family safe, healthy, and happy. I want us to learn from nature.

                                                       Interior spread, art by Yumi Shimokawara

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?

JS: HEAR THEM ROAR is a novelty sound book about endangered animals from around the world. You’ll be able to hear the real chirps, booms, songs, cries, howls, and of course, roars of each animal highlighted.
 
THEY LEAD will follow the gray wolf breeding pair (aka alphas) and shows how teamwork makes a pack successful. 

I cannot stress enough how important teamwork is! What a strong message!

​Thank you, June, that was a great insight and I hope readers are inspired by your journey. I encourage everyone to check out your books and also other titles from Familius as they are a wonderful publisher! 

June Smalls is a children’s author of fiction and nonfiction including Odd Animal ABC’s and He Leads: Mountain Gorilla, the Gentle Giant. She is a member of the Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators and a lover of literature. She resides in northern Virginia with her family and an ever-growing assortment of animals.

Welcome back, Sharon! Thank you for returning to the KidLit Oasis as my guest—which means you liked my hospitality the first time ☺, but it also means you have a new book coming out that you'll be sharing with our readers! Congratulations!

So, first, let me ask you this: I know that every book is special to its author in a particular way— how is this book special to you? Dear to your heart in a different way? What was the experience like, compared to the previous one? Is there an interesting behind-the-scenes about the idea for the story, its creation, an unusual journey to publication perhaps? What stands out?

SG: Firstly, thank you Rosie for inviting me back on your blog. I am so happy to be here 😊. It has been almost two years since my first picture book BEDTIME, DADDY! was released. My second picture book GET READY, MAMA released this month, and I am very excited to see it in the world.

This book is dear to my heart because it is a companion book for BEDTIME, DADDY! and I have wanted to see it published since 2018. GET READY, MAMA! is inspired by my daughter who is a reluctant riser and at age 15 I still have to wake up every day. BEDTIME, DADDY was inspired by my son who is a reluctant going to bedder, so it is really super to have two picture books inspired by both of my children.

GET READY, MAMA’s journey to publication was an unusual one because I first sent it to my publisher, EK Books, in 2018, but although it went to acquisition it was not picked up (at that time). However, after my first book was released, I re-sent GET READY, MAMA! to EK Books and based on the sales from my first book, they agreed to publish it. Hooray! It just goes to show that you should never give up on your dreams.
 
Q: And to piggyback on the questions above, did anything surprise you with this book or the publisher's approach to it (whether it was the same publisher or a new one)? Did you learn anything new? Was it harder or easier to bring it into the world?

SG: The first big surprise was that although EK Books declined to publish GET READY, MAMA at first, they later agreed. Once the contract was signed it was definitely easier to bring this book into the world as I was familiar with the publication process. A debut author (and illustrator) has a lot to learn with their first book. I was able to enjoy the publication process more with GET READY, MAMA! because I knew what to expect.
 
Q: When did you find out who the illustrator was for the project and were you asked for an input? What was it like working with the illustrator for this book? When did you first see the art and what was your reaction?
​
SG: EK Book signs the author and illustrator up at the same time. So, before I even signed the contract, I knew Arielle Li would be illustrating GET READY, MAMA! They introduced me to Arielle (via email) and throughout the publishing process encouraged us to work together.

Working with Arielle on our book was fantastic and I loved her style and the energy that she bought to our project. As well as how she skillfully and artistically matched my words to her illustrations.
​
The first art that I saw from Arielle was the possible characters for the story. As a team we had to decide if we wanted the characters to be human or guinea pigs. Although the guinea pigs were super adorable, we all agreed that for this book the humans would be better. I am so pleased with the choice we made. Especially when you see the mama’s facial expressions throughout the book.

EK books continued to ask for my input regarding the storyboard, cover design and book layout. It was definitely a team effort between myself, Arielle and EK books.
 
Q: What do you hope to accomplish within the next 2-3 years? Any specific goals or aspirations—personal or writing related—that you could share with us?

SG: I hope to create quality, heartfelt and humorous picture books that bring delight and happiness to children (and parents) from all around the world. As well as publish my speculative and adventure filled early middle grade books.

A writing goal I wish to accomplish this year is to undertake a graphic novel course and write a graphic novel. I love learning about different forms of children’s literature. One day I may even develop my skills as an illustrator.

On a personal level I want to travel the world with my family, and where possible meet the publishers and illustrators of my books.  As well as the many writer friends I have ‘met’ online through the Kidlit writing community. There are so many places I want to see and people I want to meet. Maybe one day Rosie we will get to meet.
 
Q: Aw, that would be wonderful, Sharon! I certainly hope we get to meet someday soon. :) Meanwhile, what's coming up for you next? Please tell us about any other exciting news, upcoming events or anything else you'd like to share with our readers?

SG: 2022 is going to be a very exciting year for me 😊. Starting with the release of GET READY, MAMA! and a book launch in April at my local Literature Centre.

I have signed a two-book deal with Dixi Books for my next two picture books, which are about taking a grandma shopping and a grandpa to the beach. So, once these books are published my picture book family will be complete.

I also have an early middle grade book being released through Clear Fork Publishing about an eleven-year-old girl who is given a mysterious gift, which she uses to overcome obstacles and challenges.

That's quite exciting, Sharon, congratulations again on all the success and your new projects! Thanks for stopping by--it was a pleasure chatting and celebrating your new book on KidLit Oasis! Best of luck to you with everything! :)

​Sharon Giltrow grew up in South Australia, the youngest of eight children, surrounded by pet sheep and fields of barley. She now lives in Perth, Western Australia with her husband, two children and a tiny dog. Sharon has taught for all of her career. Previously a teacher of children who are hearing impaired and Deaf-Blind, she now teaches young children with Developmental Language Disorder. Her humorous debut PB, BEDTIME DADDY! released May 2020 through EK books. Sharon’s humorous follow up PB, GET READY, MAMA! Is due to be released through EK books in April, 2022. Her third and fourth PB, LET’S GO SHOPPING, GRANDMA! And LET’S GO TO THE BEACH, GRANDPA! are due to be released through Dixi Books in 2022 and 2023. SAMARA RUBIN AND THE UTILITY BELT, book one in Sharon’s early MG series – THE UTILITY BELT, will be released in 2022 through Clear Fork Publishing.  With book two TOBY KING AND THE UTILITY BELT to follow. Sharon is also a Blogger for the Children’s Book Academy.

Hello, wonderful readers!

Today, I am excited to revisit with author Beth Anderson who's returning to the blog with some beautiful new picture book titles!

Welcome back, Beth! Thank you for returning to the KidLit Oasis as my guest—which means you liked my hospitality the first time ☺, but it also means you have a new book coming out (or books in your case!) that you'll be sharing with our readers! Congratulations!

So, first, let me ask you this: I know that every book is special to its author in a particular way—how are these two books special to you? Dear to your heart in a different way? What was the experience like, compared to previous ones? Is there an interesting behind-the-scenes about the idea for the story, its creation, an unusual journey to publication perhaps? What stands out?

BA: Thank you so much for inviting me to share REVOLUTIONARY PRUDENCE WRIGHT: LEADING THE MINUTE WOMEN IN THE FIGHT FOR INDEPENDENCE and FRANZ’S PHANTASMAGORICAL MACHINE! These are definitely two very different stories!

FRANZ’’s story, based on Franz Gsellmann and his “World Machine,” was one of my early manuscripts. It grabbed the child in me who loved to tinker, putter, and build. A celebration of curiosity, it explores the power of wonder and challenges us to put aside traditional expectations and judgements. Just as Franz’s machine faced criticism before finally finding appreciation, my creation built with words faced rejection before someone appreciated it, too. It’s funny how every story ends up ringing with personal relevance! Lots of learning happened with Franz’s story—such an important part of my writing journey. This was the manuscript that interested agent Stephanie Fretwell-Hill in my writing. She “got it.” And FRANZ opened the door.

REVOLUTIONARY PRUDENCE WRIGHT had a long journey, too. My attempts at a creative structure didn’t work. In addition, some missing details seemed to sap the strength of the story. That story waited in “the drawer” for a year while I struggled with how to write it. But in time I realized that the emotional truths were what powered Prudence’s story, and that thread didn’t depend on the missing details. I loved that her story offered a window into life behind well-known events like the Boston Tea Party, Paul Revere’s Ride, and the battles at Lexington and Concord. The uniqueness of this untold story convinced me to take a historical fiction path using the most verifiable details and find a way to tell it. If we don’t tell a story because we can’t find every detail, then there are many important stories that will never be told. Researching her story, I connected to some local historians and discovered how her story was personal and continued to inspire people today. That helped me find the “heart” and a way to tell Prudence Wright’s story.
 
Q: And to piggyback on the questions above, did anything surprise you with the books or the publisher's approach (whether it was the same publisher or a new one)? Did you learn anything new? Was it harder or easier to bring the books into the world?
 
BA: FRANZ’S PHANTASMAGORICAL MACHINE is my first book with Kids Can Press. And REVOLUTIONARY PRUDENCE WRIGHT is my fourth book with Calkins Creek. Each publisher works a little differently, and I think each book offers different challenges in the publishing process. With FRANZ, I worked with several editors, and the story stalled a bit as we sought permissions. This was my first experience with the world of permissions—the machine can be seen as art, so would be copyrighted, and the story features the Atomium, a structure that requires permission for illustrations.

PRUDENCE’s story brought new awareness when it was time to vet illustrations. When I wrote the story, I didn’t think about the potential challenges in illustrating a cast of 30 women. But when it was time to vet the art, the question of diversity came up. I was fortunate to find someone who dug into historical records and found African American and Native American families and women in the town of Pepperell.

Every story stretches you in new directions and widens your awareness and thinking for the next one!
 
Q: When did you find out who the illustrator was for the project and were you asked for an input? What was it like working with the illustrator for this book? When did you first see the art and what was your reaction?

BA: For both books, I was consulted as editors considered who might illustrate. I’m always grateful for the editor’s skillset in choosing just the right illustrator who can bring a specialness that will enhance the text.

With FRANZ, Caroline Hamel surprised me with her whimsical style and bright palette, making a story from the past thoroughly modern. She brought a playfulness and a European look which really makes the story sing.

With PRUDENCE, Susan Reagan brought strength and beauty and a gorgeous palette. I was amazed by all the historical details and so delighted by her creative spreads that incorporated documents. And the dramatic spreads—Wow!

I think my favorite part of the publishing process is seeing the sketches for the first time and then watching the art develop. The illustrations are always more than I had imagined!
 
Q: What do you hope to accomplish within the next 2-3 years? Any specific goals or aspirations—personal or writing related—that you could share with us?

BA: I don’t have any lofty goals. :) At this point in my life, I’m thrilled to be on this writing journey. I hope to keep on discovering ideas, people, and events to write stories that engage kids and open up their world, and also to be a positive part of the kid lit community. It’d be fun to write a middle grade novel and something really sparse and lyrical. In general, I’m looking forward to being WITH people, going on some traveling adventures, and hanging out with my grandkids. AND…I’m striving to grow a bumper crop of tomatoes!
 
Q: What's coming up for you next? Please tell us about any other exciting news, upcoming events or anything else you'd like to share with our readers?
​
BA: I’m excited about the next books in the publishing pipeline. I’m over-the-moon amazed with Jeremy Holmes’ illustrations for THOMAS JEFFERSON’S BATTLE FOR SCIENCE: BIAS, TRUTH, AND A MIGHTY MOOSE. Can’t wait to share that story! I have a couple others on the way that are unannounced so will have to stay mum on those. 

Thank you, Beth! As always, it was a pleasure chatting with you and featuring your amazing books on my blog! Wishing all the best with these titles, your upcoming projects, and all future stories you'll be bringing to life for young readers!

Connect with Beth Anderson:

Website: https://bethandersonwriter.com
Twitter: @BAndersonWriter

>>> Click in the book covers to purchase Beth's books <<<

​Hello, everyone, and happy Spring!

I am so honored and excited to have the amazing Rajani LaRocca visit KidLit Oasis and chat with me! I've been enjoying her spectacular journey in the kidlit world and couldn't be happier for her! Rajani is having a wild ride and I cannot wait to hear more about it! Plus, one lucky reader will win a copy of her new picture book, I'll Go and Come Back. 

Welcome, Rajani! Thank you for joining me on the blog. Congratulations on all your successes and your new release! How did it all start for you? Please briefly describe your journey to publication. 

RL: My first career is as a doctor, and I came back to writing later in my life. In 2011, I started taking online and then in person writing classes and connected with other writers. In 2013, I became more serious about trying to be traditionally published. In 2014, I finished the first draft of my first novel. I signed with my agent in late 2017 after many, many rejections. He offered representation on the basis of my middle grade novel, but I also had five picture books I thought were “ready” at the time. In 2018, we sold five books, and since then we haven’t stopped!

When I first started writing, I was worried I’d run out of ideas. Now I know that I’ll never have the time to write all the ideas I have.

I’ll Go and Come Back is the first book we ever sold, way back in March 2018…and here it is, releasing four years later! It’s been a long wait, but it was worth it. The beautiful illustrations by Sara Palacios perfectly fit this story of my heart.

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?

RL: It can be a challenge to balance writing new books, editing current ones, doing marketing, and coordinating appearances while still working at my job in medicine and having a family life.

Revising is so rewarding — it’s such a joy to shape a story into what you want it to be!
Meeting kid readers motivates me so much! Kids are wonderful and funny and wise.

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? 

RL: Revision is where the magic happens for me! With picture books, I like to think about the big picture — what I’m really trying to say — and make sure my writing serves that. I also paginate to make sure that the plot points of the story are falling in the right places, and that each spread has a unique, illustratable scene. Then I go through and get rid of any extraneous words and try to ensure the language is as vibrant as possible.

Q: What do you consider your biggest publishing career accomplishment so far? On the flip side, what are some of the things you'd like to accomplish in the next year from now?

A: I’m so incredibly honored at the recognition that some of my books have gotten — in particular, Red, White, and Whole, which has won a Newbery Honor, the Walter Dean Myers Award, the Golden Kite Award, and the New England Book Award. But in terms of things I can control, I’m proud to be writing and publishing books for different age groups, fiction and nonfiction, in prose and poetry.

In the next few years, I’d like to try writing for different formats and age groups: YA, chapter books, and maybe even graphic novels!

Q: That's wonderful! So happy for you, these are outstanding accomplishments! What is your vision for this book, I'll Go and Come Back? What kind of impact do you hope it would have on readers?

RL: Book description for I’ll Go and Come Back:
When Jyoti visits her grandmother halfway around the world, she is overwhelmed by the differences between India and home. At first, she feels lonely and out of place, but soon, despite a language barrier, she and Sita Pati are able to understand each other. They form a bond—looking at books together, making designs with colored sand, shopping at the market, playing games, eating chapatis, and sipping warm milk with saffron to bring sweet dreams. When it’s time to part, Jyoti doesn’t want to leave, but then she remembers that in Tamil, people don’t say goodbye, they say “I’ll go and come back.” Sure enough, the two reunite the next summer when Pati visits Jyoti in America, and it’s Jyoti’s turn to make her grandmother feel welcome. Can they create some special memories that will last until the next time they see each other?

I hope that anyone who has ever been separated from someone they love (we all have experience with this over the past 2 years!) resonates with this story of love that stretches across the world and the promise to come back.

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 going to be at many conferences, online and in person this year! People can find out more on my events page: https://www.rajanilarocca.com/events/

Thank you, Rajani, it was a pleasure chatting with you! Wishing you many more successes, literary joy, and never-ending inspiration! 

Rajani LaRocca was born in India, raised in Kentucky, and now lives in the Boston area, where she practices medicine and writes award-winning books for young readers, including the Newbery Honor winning middle grade novel in verse, Red, White, and Whole. She’s always been an omnivorous reader, and now is an omnivorous writer of fiction and nonfiction, novels and picture books, prose and poetry. She finds inspiration in her family, her childhood, the natural world, math, science, and just about everywhere she looks.