I am so thrilled to welcome this week's KidLit Oasis guest, Alison S. Weiss, Editor at Pixel+Ink, and to chat with her about all things publishing!

Alison has graciously agreed to share her insight and wisdom with my readers, to take us behind the scenes of her publishing house, and she's also giving away a bundle of books to one lucky winner! How fantastic is that?! 

I can't wait for you to hear from Alison, so here we go....

Welcome, Alison! Thank you so much for taking the time to chat with me and for  sharing your perspective, knowledge, and publishing experience with us! I appreciate your visit -- it's truly exciting to interview an editor on my blog!

My first question is, how did you become an editor? Did you have any mentors who helped you along the way? And please tell us about Pixel + Ink as a publisher -- what are the company's values, goals, and mission?

ASW: I started my career as an intern at Delacorte Books for Young Readers when I was going into my senior year of college, but my first full-time job in publishing was as Sales and Marketing Assistant at Egmont USA. I say I stared in Sales and Marketing, but Egmont was a brand-new company at the time—I was employee number four!—and we didn’t really have any books to sell or market, so I was more like a jack of all trades. I helped plan the company’s launch party. I ordered office supplies. I booked and confirmed (and reconfirmed) trips for the executives to major conferences like BEA and ALA and Frankfurt. And I read and discussed manuscripts. About six months in, the company decided to split my role in two, and I was lucky enough that they saw the potential in me and let me make the hop over to editorial, enabling me to grow along with the company.

But, of course I still needed to learn how to be a good editor. I’ve always worked at companies that are growing, and that means you often jump in to help with matters beyond your standard job description, and you learn a lot about the business and how it really operates along the way. I’ve been fortunate to have had some incredible people to help me along that journey. Regina Griffin took me under her wing and taught me the mechanics of the trade of editing, the ins-and-outs of a book contract, author care, how to be strategic, and so many more skills I can’t begin to list. Elizabeth Law’s extroversion and ease with talking to new writers taught me how to push past my introverted shell and network successfully. Bethany Buck, my current Editor-in-Chief, who I’ve been fortunate enough to work with at two companies now, modeled for me that being a good manager is about making sure your team has what they need to be successful and thrive. And there are so many others who have taught me so much. I can only hope that I can be that advocate and mentor to young editors as they find their own paths.
 
Pixel+Ink is part of the Trustbridge Media Group, along with sister companies Holiday House, Peachtree, and Candlewick/Walker. We’re a very new company—we recently had our first anniversary of publication!—and we’re just getting started. Pixel+Ink is a little different than other publishers, in that we are committed to series publishing with transmedia potential. That means we’re developing properties across multiple books (whether that’s a specified arc, strong worlds we just keep wanting to revisit, or a sequence that can just go on and on and on), and we’re looking for franchises that have strong potential to make the leap to TV, film, or other media platforms. We publish picture books, chapter books, middle grade, and graphic novels. We really believe in telling stories that kids ages 3-13 want to get lost in. We want readers to feel seen in these worlds, but also to feel they have a place to escape and explore and grow. And we hope they have a lot of fun along the way.
​

​Wow, what an incredible journey! And you've had such amazing opportunities to learn the business from many different angles, which I think is invaluable. I'm always fascinated with the particular path a person took to take them to where they are today.

My next question is, what is your favorite part of the job and what is your least favorite part? What brings you joy in your position day in and day out?

ASW: I love collaboration. I love working with my authors. I love working with my team. It feels like such a privilege to make books for readers that can be so meaningful to who they may grow up to be. It’s a responsibility I take very seriously, and to do it alongside such creative and committed partners is exhilarating.
 
I’m not a fan of how long it takes to get movement on things. This is a hurry up and wait industry on all levels. And I don’t always love writing copy. I need to be in the right mindset, and sometimes schedules don’t allow me to wait for the creative juices to flow. (Sound familiar?)

Very familiar! And I second this--I am right there with you NOT being a fan of the slow movement on things in the industry. The "hurry up and wait" is tough!

Please tell us, what is a typical workday for you? If there's no "typical" what are some of the tasks that have priority in any given workday?

ASW: There is definitely no typical workday. I keep a running list of tasks I need to get to, which gets copied over every Monday, and I cross things off as I go along through the week. I do a pretty good job of winnowing away at that list, but it’s never finished. Priority in a given day is usually based on deadlines that are coming up. If we’re preparing for Launch or Sales Conference, tasks related to that have to be handled before other matters. If a book is about to go to press, I have to drop everything to review the passes as they circulate, and that can be quite a frenzy. Administrative tasks and correspondence often come before digging into a manuscript or reading because they’re more time sensitive. But I’ve been very lucky at Pixel+Ink that I do have days where I can spend an entire afternoon or even a day (or multiple days in a row!) editing, and for that I am very grateful.

Are you actively acquiring new books at this time? What are some of the stories you're looking for? What appeals to you?

ASW: I am definitely acquiring right now, and I’m eager to fall in love with new, exciting projects. I think I’m drawn to books that have a lot of heart and often a lot of humor. I want a story to really get its claws in me. I’m looking for the great trifecta—stand-out characters, engaging plot, and a killer voice. I love most those manuscripts that change my perspective on the world when I’m done reading.

                                     [Check out Alison's submission guidelines]

How much time do you usually spend reading a submission? Do you read the query first or the manuscript?

ASW: Since joining Pixel+Ink, I’ve implemented a practice I’ve really been enjoying. I carve out a block of time on a Sunday afternoon with my Kindle, a huge cup of coffee, and a scone, and I sit reading manuscripts. That’s not to say I don’t read at other times (I do!), but those hours have become my devoted reading time every week. So far, it’s allowed me to keep my response times down to something respectable for the most part, but I suppose I’ll have to reassess if things change!
 
I skim a query letter when a submission first comes in, but I read the manuscript first. If I’m a few chapters in and feel in my gut that this could be something, I’ll usually jump over to the query letter to get the pitch, and then keep that info in mind as I dive back into the manuscript, hoping it will stay just as great.
 
How do you evaluate submissions? What marks does a manuscript need to hit to be considered for acquisitions?

ASW: Wow. This is a difficult question to answer. What makes a manuscript work is really subjective. It’s important to remember that just because a manuscript may not click for me, that doesn’t mean that another editor won’t fall madly in love with it.
I usually can tell fairly early on if it’s something I’m adoring, and then it’s a question of it staying as wonderful. I’m looking for writing that stands out. I try to give every project I consider a fair shake (sometimes that first chapter is just not the right starting place), but if my mind’s starting to wander or I find I’m not really invested, that probably is the signal it’s time to move on.

For Pixel+Ink, I have the added component that I need books that have strong series potential and that I can see being picked up for film. If I’m looking at a picture book that’s not character-driven and it’s not easy to see how you might come up with thirty different plots for a pre-school season, it doesn’t matter how lovely I think it is. And for a novel, if the ending feels very final (and there’s a difference between a satisfying close and slamming the door shut), it’s going to be harder for me to get to yes. Some books really are meant to be stand-alones, and there’s nothing wrong with that. There are plenty of editors who will gobble those up.

What happens next? How is the acquisition process handled? Could you walk us through the process from submission to contract offer?

ASW: If I find something I’d love to move forward with, the next step is usually sharing it with my Editor-in-Chief. I may be simultaneously reaching out to an agent or author to get a bit more information or to discuss some light development, or I may wait until I have the greenlight to move forward. At that point, I put together a profit and loss statement, which analyzes the profitability of a project based on a lot of considerations. I’m also coming up with other books already on the market to make a case why I think this could do well, too. (This is why, creators, it’s so important to know the current market and to know where your book fits within it.) I’m also sharing the manuscript with my rights director and our film consultant for their feedback. (This is not necessarily how this process works at other houses, but you might share the manuscript with marketing or sales.) Once the P&L is ready, I present the project to our Managing Director at an Acquisitions meeting and we discuss my potential strategy should he approve us offering. If the project clears that hurdle, my Editor-in-Chief and I pull together our offer and we’re off to the races!
 
I see that the time frame to get a reply from Pixel + Ink is up to 4 months. Is no reply considered a pass after the 4 months or do you send form rejections? Should authors follow up on unsolicited submissions?

ASW: Currently, the Pixel+Ink editorial team consists my Editor-in-Chief and me, so unfortunately we simply don’t have the bandwidth to reply personally to every unsolicited manuscript, even if we wish we could. No response after four months is a pass from us. Writers can of course follow up, but that doesn’t get you any kind of preferential treatment.

Are you currently taking submissions from illustrators?

ASW: Absolutely.

What is the one thing people should avoid in submissions?

ASW: It’s really important to follow submission guidelines. We don’t do YA or non-fiction. We don’t do stand-alone anything. (If your book’s a stand-alone, but you have ideas for more stories in the world, just mention that in your query letter.)

Also, if you’re sending unsolicited, please don’t send anything as an exclusive submission unless there’s a specific reason you’re doing it. No one in the industry expects that of you, and you’re actually working against yourself.

How does Pixel + Ink support its authors after the acquisition process and post-publication? Would you highlight some of the marketing, promotion, and distribution support your titles receive?

ASW: The Pixel+Ink list is carefully curated so that every creator we work with gets a lot of attention from our team and we can treat each of them as the partner we view them as. We’re sold and distributed by Penguin Random House, so we have amazing market reach. Our publicity and marketing teams are incredible, and they’re always coming up with smart, detailed, tailored plans for each property in conjunction with our creators’ ideas. And they’re really nice, too.

What projects are you working on right now for your list? What are you excited about and why? Any upcoming titles you could share with us?

ASW: I’ve been spending a lot of time with Pixel+Ink projects acquired before I joined the company, including Beatrice Bly’s Rules for Spies by Sue Fliess, illustrated by Beth Mills, Twig and Turtle by Jennifer Richard Jacobson, illustrated by Paula Franco, The Great Peach Experiment by Erin Soderberg Downing, and the forthcoming The Great Mathemachicken by Nancy Krulik, illustrated by Charlie Alder.

I’m also excited to start seeing the books I’ve acquired getting ready to make their way into the market. The Curious League of Detectives and Thieves by Tom Phillips is a middle grade series launching in Summer 2022 that I’m particularly eager to see out in the world. It’s A Series of Unfortunate Events meets Enola Holmes. It’s hilarious and full of heart, and the kind of book where you realize how cleverly plotted it is as you pick up on more and more with every read. I adore it and I’m certain readers are going to eat it up.

​



www.pixelandinkbooks.com
 
Follow Pixel+Ink on Twitter: ​@PixelandInkBks

Connect with Alison S. Weiss

Follow Alison on Twitter: @alioop17


Alison S. Weiss has been in publishing for more than ten years. She’s currently acquisitions editor at Pixel+Ink (part of the Trustbridge Media Group), a publisher focused exclusively on series publishing with transmedia potential. There, she’s worked on many series, including TWIG AND TURTLE by Jennifer Richard Jacobson, THE GREAT PEACH EXPERIMENT by Erin Soderberg Downing, and the forthcoming THE CURIOUS LEAGUE OF DETECTIVES AND THIEVES by Tom Phillips. She’s run her own editorial consultancy, working with publishers including Simon & Schuster, Audible, and Arctis, as well as private clients, and was Editorial Director at Sky Pony Press, where her list included William C. Morris Finalist DEVILS WITHIN by S.F. Henson, the PROJECT DROID series by New York Times bestselling author Nancy Krulik and Amanda Burwasser, illustrated by Mike Moran, the TIMEKEEPER trilogy by Tara Sim, and the Mahabharata-inspired CELESTIAL TRILOGY by SanguMandanna. In 2016 she was named a Publishers Weekly Star Watch Honoree. She’s been trying to live up to the title ever since. You can follow her on Twitter @alioop7 and learn more about Pixel+Ink at www.pixelandinkbooks.com.

Welcome back, KidLit Oasis fans (and future fans)!

I am so excited to chat with a wonderful author today--Charlotte Offsay is in the house, and I cannot wait to hear about her journey, her amazing books, and what advice she has for writers! (Spoiler alert: Charlotte shares a fantastic revision checklist you don't want to miss.) Plus, she's generously giving away a copy of her new picture book, HOW TO RETURN A MONSTER. Find out how to enter for a chance to win this adorable book at the end of the interview. 

Besides being an amazing author and a lovely person, Charlotte is also a passionate supporter of the kidlit community, highlighting picture books on her Instagram account @pictirebookrecommendations so make sure you follow her there.

Okay, let's hear it from my awesome guest...

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

A: I have always had a passion for books and creative writing, but becoming a published author always felt like a far-fetched dream and was something I fantasized about but never actually took any steps toward. That all changed after my children were born. I love reading to them and after an afternoon of baking with them I began writing a rhyming how-to story for them based on our weekly challah baking tradition. I loved the entire process of writing that story for them, and when an instructor of a parenting group I was in at the time encouraged each of us to sign up for a class or spend some time doing something that was just for us – something outside the responsibilities of our families – I jumped at the excuse to sign up for my very first writing class. I took an online introduction to writing picture book class through UCLA extension, and fell head over heels for all things picture book. The more I learned the more obsessed I became. I spent the next few years taking classes and attending conferences. I joined various kidlit groups such as SCBWI, 12x12 and Inked voices and met my very first critique partners and felt at home in the kidlit community.

I signed with my agent, Nicole Geiger of Full Circle Literary in early 2019. Nicole is fantastic - she is my biggest advocate, she pushes me, she questions me, she guides me, believes in me and makes me a better writer. Together we have sold three picture books including How to Return a Monster which I am excited to be sharing more about today here on this blog!

How to Return a Monster is a humorous how-to story about a girl who can't believe it when her parents bring home a fussy, stinky, attention-stealing monster. She hatches a plan to send it back to where it came from, with hilarious results . . . and along the way, she learns that maybe monsters--and baby siblings--aren't so bad after all.
It is illustrated by Rea Zhai and publishes with Beaming Books on September 7, 2021.
 
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 think the most challenging part of this business for me is the waiting. I am not a naturally patient person and there is a lot of waiting - from waiting to hear back on queries, to waiting to hear back from editors, waiting for your book to be announced/illustrated/published etc. I decided long ago that in order for me to handle the waiting I needed to celebrate every step, even the small ones. Staying positive and celebrating the steps along the way helps me to keep creating even in those extremely quiet periods that I find so difficult.

The most rewarding part of this business is definitely the writing community. The kidlit community is such a wonderfully warm and welcoming place. From the very beginning strangers went out of their way to help me learn the ropes, figure out which classes to take, which blogs to read, which mentor texts to get my hands on – all because of our shared passion for picture books. I have made some of my closest friends through the kidlit world, they understand me and support me and I am so grateful for how full they make my life.

I am fortunate to have an incredible support network to help me stay motivated. There is a lot of rejection in this business and it takes a thick skin to keep going. My critique partners, my children and my husband are my biggest cheerleaders and supporters and I wouldn’t be where I am without them. 

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 I first began writing I used to pour over the pages of craft books such as Ann Whitford Paul’s Writing Picture Books. I used those craft books and picture book classes I was taking at the time to create a picture book evaluation form which I utilized as a revision tool. Here are a few of the categories as an example:

• Main Character:
  • Will the reader care about them?
  • Does the MC solve their own problem?
  • Is the MC active in their own story?
  • Are the MC actions believable?
• Dialogue:
  • Is it believable? 
  • Does what the characters say help flesh out the story?
  • Is it simple?
  • Does it move the story forward and reveal character?

• Plot:
  • What happens?
  • Do any of the characters change?
  • Is there tension?
  • Does the story start before it needs to?
  • Are scenes included that are unnecessary and don’t move the story forward?
  • Is the ending satisfying? Logical? Predictable? Is there a twist?

 
I didn’t need to check every box on this revision sheet, but I found it helpful to think about and be purposeful about each of these areas as I revised.

These revision questions have become engrained in my head and while I no longer pull out my self-made handout every time I revise I often find myself thinking about these questions whenever I create a new manuscript or critique someone else’s.

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 am excited to share that my next picture book, A Grandma’s Magic, illustrated by Asa Gilland publishes on March 1, 2022 from Doubleday Books for Young Readers/Penguin Random House.
 
Description from my publisher:
 
"When a child is born, a grandma is born too. Grandmas aren't like regular grown-ups. Grandmas are filled with magic."

In this charming picture book tribute to grandmas, a grandma's magic bursts through the door as soon as she comes to visit and can be seen in every wonderful thing she does: playing, exploring, baking, gardening, and in all the many ways a grandma and grandchild connect.

Filled with adorable scenes featuring a diversity of grandmas and their grandkids, this is a book that will families can enjoy together. Grandmas will love snuggling with their grandchildren as they share their love and "magic" through cuddles, kisses, and many repeat readings.

Congratulations on all your success, Charlotte! It was a pleasure chatting with you! Thank you for being my guest, and I hope that you'll return to KidLit Oasis with your future books. I'm so happy to support your work and look forward to your upcoming titles as well.

Connect with Charlotte Offsay:

Website: www.charlotteoffsay.com
Twitter: @coffsay
IG: @picturebookrecommendations

CHARLOTTE OFFSAY was born in England, grew up in Boston, and currently lives in Los Angeles with her husband and two small children. Through her work, Charlotte hopes to make children laugh, to inspire curiosity, and to create a magical world her readers can lose themselves in time and time again.

Charlotte is the author of The Big Beach Cleanup, illustrated by Kate Rewse (Albert Whitman, 2021), How to Return a Monster, illustrated by Rea Zhai (Beaming Books, September 2021), and A Grandma’s Magic, illustrated by Asa Gilland (Doubleday Books for Young Readers, March 2022).

Welcome back to KidLit Oasis, everyone!

I hope you all had a great summer and that you're excited about fall. I have so many fabulous guests lined up and giveaways planned for you, I cannot wait to spread all the excitement!

I am happy to be back as the new blog season is finally here, and we're kicking it off with a fun celebration. My guest, Author Henry Herz, is stopping by to talk about his latest picture book release, I AM SMOKE. Today is extra special, too, because it's the book's birthday! Hooray! Congratulations, Henry!

Okay, I can't wait to hear what Henry has to share with us and I'm ready to get the scoop on this book which is already making a splash. 

So, let's get started...

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

A: Years ago, I wanted to share my love of fantasy with my young sons. They were too little for watching most of the fantasy movies. Struck by inspiration one day, I came up with a way to share the joy of entering the magical realms of fantasy. I would write a fantasy book for them. That decision had two unintended consequences.

First, I did not anticipate was that my boys would give me feedback on the story.  They devised some of the character and creature names, and made plot line suggestions.  And who better to help make the story appealing to kids than other kids?  So, the goal of interesting my sons in fantasy transformed into also encouraging them to write.

Second, I discovered how much I loved writing for kids. We ended up self-publishing that book. I was hooked. I joined SCBWI, joined a critique group, and kept honing my writing until I sold my first picture book, MONSTER GOOSE NURSERY RHYMES to a traditional publisher, Pelican. I kept at at and continue working on my writing skills. I AM SMOKE will be my tenth traditionally published picture book. In the last couple of years, I have written two middle-grade novels (on submission) and a number of adult short stories in the fantasy, science fiction, and even horror genres.

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 suppose it's a tie between the pain of waiting and the agony of rejection. Those of you who are not authors may not be aware that authors endure a potentially soul-crushing amount of rejections. Even short stories and books eventually bought by a publisher may suffer multiple rejections from other publishers first. Authors must develop a thick skin and recognize that a rejection is not necessarily a critique of their writing. A publisher may decline a manuscript because they already have something like it, or the topic is not suitable for their current needs, or they don't feel there's sufficient market potential.

Waiting to hear back is another challenge of being a writer. Whether you're submitting directly to a publisher, or querying an agent, you can be facing a wait of weeks, months, or even years. Yes, I once got a rejection years later, after I'd already sold that manuscript (and a second one) to another publisher. Waiting is an unavoidable part of the game. The trick is to distract yourself by staying busy—write more stories or novels in the mean time.

As for what is most rewarding, it's a three-way tie—this time between the thrill of getting a signed contract from a publisher, seeing a illustrator bring my story to life, and receiving artwork drawn by young children inspired by my book. We don't do this for fame and fortune. We do this to bring smiles to kids' faces and to inspire them.

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: For writing novels, there are two resources I really find helpful. SAVE THE CAT WRITES A NOVEL by Jess Brody is a novel-centric adaptation of the screenplay-focused original, SAVE THE CAT by Blake Snyder. Jess analyzed how the beats of successful novels are organized. Her book provides a template, a starting point, which was invaluable when I had never before written a novel. It helps you create an engaging story arc, with good pacing and tension.

Another excellent resource for writers is WRITING THE BREAKOUT NOVEL HANDBOOK by Donald Maass. It asks the author a number of questions to help you flesh out and better understand your own characters.

My revision process is straightforward. I share my first draft with a critique group, consider their feedback, and update my manuscript based on which advice I choose to take. Once the manuscript has been run through the “meat grinder” of one or two critique groups, then I share it with beta readers to get their perspectives. Outside pairs of eyes are so valuable, because the author unavoidably has blinds spots. What is clear to us may not be obvious to most readers. What is funny to us may not work for readers. The process is akin to sculpting. We go over our manuscript again and again, striving to create an engaging story arc featuring characters who feel real and fully fleshed out. The dialog, thoughts, and actions of the characters as they face challenges and transform in a meaningful way must evoke emotion that drives the reader to keep turning pages.

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 creative nonfiction picture book from Tilbury House, I AM SMOKE, launched September 14, 2021. Upcoming events and book launches include:

-Moderating a DragonCon panel with actors from Netflix's Norsemen series.

-Launching my contemporary magical realism early chapter book, THE MAGIC SPATULA from Month9 Books.

-The middle-grade #ownvoices anthology from Albert Whitman & Co., COMING OF AGE: 13 B'NAI MITZVAH STORIES, will feature my sci-fi/humor short story, Bar Mitzvah on Planet Latke.

-The adult horror anthology from the Denver Horror Collective, THE JEWISH BOOK OF HORROR, will feature my short story, Demon Hunter Vashti.

-The young adult horror anthology from Blackstone Publishing, THE HITHERTO SECRET EXPERIMENTS OF MARIE CURIE, will feature my short story, Cheating Death.

-Highlights for Children has purchased two of my stories, but I don't know when those will come out. See topic of patience above.

Thank you so much, Henry -- it was a pleasure to have you as my guest! Best of luck on your journey, congrats again on all of your success,  and I look forward to your future projects!

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

I hope you enjoyed this interview — join in the celebration and leave us a comment.  Social media shares are greatly appreciated. Thank you!
​-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Connect with Henry Herz:

Website: https://www.henryherz.com 
Twitter: @HenryLHerz 
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                                               To purchase IAM SMOKE click on the book cover

Henry authored 11 traditionally published books for children: MONSTER GOOSE NURSERY RHYMES, WHEN YOU GIVE AN IMP A PENNY, MABEL & THE QUEEN OF DREAMS, LITTLE RED CUTTLEFISH, CAP'N REX & HIS CLEVER CREW, HOW THE SQUID GOT TWO LONG ARMS, ALICE'S MAGIC GARDEN, GOOD EGG AND BAD APPLE, 2 PIRATES + 1 ROBOT, THE MAGIC SPATULA, and I AM SMOKE.
​
Henry Herz authored over 25 traditionally published short stories, including for Daily Science Fiction, Blackstone Publishing, Albert Whitman & Co., Highlights for Children, and Ladybug Magazine. He edited three anthologies: BEYOND THE PALE, COMING OF AGE (Albert Whitman & Co., MG #ownvoices), and THE HITHERTO SECRET EXPERIMENTS OF MARIE CURIE (Blackstone Publishing, YA horror).

PART 2: The Interview

Hello, dear readers, and welcome back!

As promised, I have Author Kathleen M. Blasi as my guest this week for Part 2, the continuation from last week's post in which I  I reviewed Kathleen's latest picture book, Milo's Moonlight Mission (if you missed Part 1, find it here). 

So, let's get to know Kathleen better and hear what she has to share with us!

Welcome, Kathleen, and happy book birthday! Milo's Moonlight Mission releases today -- how exciting!

​I'd love to find out what the backstory is that led to this moment. Please briefly describe your journey to publication, leading up to this book. When and how did you first get started writing for children and what was the path for you in becoming an author?

I fell in love with picture books when my children were young. It made me remember the picture books I loved as a child—those stories stuck with me, well into adulthood. Books like Ferdinand, The Snowy Day, Make Way for Ducklings, and Blueberries for Sal. I read them over and over.

I had always loved to write and set out to create stories that children (and parents) would want to read again and again. What was the trick? I studied the craft, took some classes, and connected with other children’s writers. My first published book, A NAME OF HONOR, began as a picture book, mainly because I made two false assumptions: 1: that picture books are short, so therefore easy to write (Ha!), and 2: that I was not capable of writing a novel. I learned both lessons, and A NAME OF HONOR was published as a middle-grade historical fiction book in the educational market. That was 2006. Shortly after that, my nonfiction book about youth sports came out. Then…many years of writing, submitting, revising, critiquing, revising, and most importantly…learning. Learning to improve my writing, learning to be both patient and persistent. In 2020, HOSEA PLAYS ON, illustrated by Shane Evans, was published with Sterling Children’s Books. I’m so pleased that my second published picture book will be out in the world on June 15th! MILO’S MOONLIGHT MISSION, illustrated by Petronela Dostalova, published by Yeehoo Press, is a joy to see come to fruition.
 
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?

On the creative side, showing up is difficult when self-doubt tells you that you are not worthy of doing so. In the face of the required patience and inevitable rejection that accompanies putting yourself out there, it’s sometimes hard to keep going. But I firmly believe that hard work and opportunity will eventually intersect. I just have to remind myself of that every now and then.

There are two things that I find most rewarding—obviously, seeing a manuscript come take the form of a real book is very rewarding. But also rewarding is finishing a project I’ve put so much into. When I discover nuggets for a story in the research process—I think my heart actually skips a beat. It’s thrilling to see a story come together, when in the beginning it feels like a big mess. Where do I begin? What do I include? What do I need to take out for the sake of telling this story in the best way possible? Sharing my works-in-progress with my critique partners and being lifted by their encouragement is phenomenally rewarding. Meeting readers through author visits, seeing how my journey can contribute to their seeing themselves as writers is a true gift.

I stay motivated by recognizing all the little things along the way. I can’t let publication be the measure of my success. I need to pause and recognize that revision is an accomplishment. Submitting polished work to editors or agents is an accomplishment. And validating my choice to stay in the game by investing in my writing career—by attending workshops and conferences—is an accomplishment. Staying connected with my writing peers, to share both the joys and the disappointments, helps keep me motivated, too. It’s important to know I’m not alone.
 
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?

For all of my projects, big, unlined paper is a necessity for brainstorming. It feels unrestrictive and non-judgmental. Let it rip! Write big, write small, make crooked lines and messy arrows. I love it. Makes me more open to the possibilities. I also love to storyboard for picture books, in all stages.
 
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?
I am having a book launch for MILO on June 19th, in a park near my home. A local indie is co-hosting with me. Other projects in the works – both new pieces and old-to-be-revisited. There’s always room for improvement!

Thank you, Kathleen -- it was a pleasure having you at KidLit Oasis! Best of luck with the launch and many more successes to you! 

Welcome back, everyone!

Today, I'm introducing a new picture book to you, Milo's Moonlight Mission, by Kahleen M. Blasi, illustrated by Petronela Dostalova, that will be released from Yeehoo Press on 6/15/21. You will also get a chance to win a copy, so make sure to enter the giveaway!

PART 1: The Review
PART 2: The Interview (Come back next Tuesday for my chat with the author, Kathleen M. Blasi!)

Here's my review . . .

Milo is ready for an important space mission, but his Second-in-Command (a.k.a. Mom) did not report to the ship on time. What's taking her so long?

Well, there's work to be done first. Milo is patient and tries to help, too. All done! Is it time for the mission now? Not yet. It's dinnertime. No one can fly to the Moon on an empty stomach! Again, Milo helps his mom prepare a good meal and clean up afterward.

As it gets late in the evening, launch seems unlikely. Just before Milo heads off to bed, he hears about a huge meteor shower on the news, and now his space mission becomes more important than ever! But it has to wait until the morning.

Something big like this is not to be missed! Milo is tossing and turning in bed, then he decides to do everything that he can to get ready for the event.

And when Captain Milo and his Second-in-Command finally accomplish their mission, amid the spectacular show they witness together, an out-of-this-world memory is created.

This sweet, lyrical story will launch space enthusiasts into an adventure and keep them captivated! Milo's imaginative play and kindness will have readers rooting for him while following his mission to completion. As Milo marks it accomplished, he discovers that patience, planning, and being prepared do pay off in the end.

The bright illustrations in bold, contrasting colors complement the story quite well, adding additional layers of child play in the art that kids will relate to. 
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                                          A peek inside the book . . .

From the Publisher:

Key Selling Points:
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Emotionally Resonant: A heartwarming tale of a parent and a child struggling to find quality time together – a challenge with which many parents and children can identify.
Adorable Space Setting: With a playful, expressive setting, this book is perfect for space fans and young budding astronauts.

Vivid, Atmospheric Storytelling: Children will love how much this midnight adventure feels like a real mission complete with a spaceship—and will wish that they could journey to the world beyond.
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A Clever Combination of Fiction and Non-Fiction: Interwoven in the fiction text are unique facts about meteor showers. Educational back matter offers opportunities for discussions about cosmic phenomena.

Description

Outer space is there for exploring, and Captain Milo is ready for takeoff! If only he didn’t have to wait for his Second-in-Command—or as he also calls her, Mom—to report for duty. Yet Mom’s list of daily tasks grows ever longer, and she can’t launch until they’re done. So, like any good captain, Milo offers to help! Work? Check. Dinner? Check. Cleanup? Check. When the weather forecast predicts a middle-of-the-night meteor storm, Captain Milo wants desperately to witness it. But will his Second-in-Command have enough time to accomplish this magical mission with him?
In lyrical prose and charming illustrations, Kathleen M. Blasi and Petronela Dostalova capture how the most spectacular night skies are revealed when we plan for the perfect moment—with loved ones by our sides. This heartwarming tale is perfect for space fans and young budding astronauts!
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Author Bio:

Kathleen Blasi writes books for young readers, including Hosea Plays On (illustrated by Shane W. Evans), A Name of Honor, and Are Organized Sports Better for Kids than Pickup Games? Active in the children’s writing community, Kathleen has served as Co-President of Rochester Area Children’s Writers & Illustrators and is former Co-Director of the Rochester Children’s Book Festival, for which she and her Co-Director received the 2015 New York State Reading Association Literacy Advocate Award. Kathleen lives in western New York, where, along with writing, she enjoys fostering the curiosity of young storytellers. Visit her at kmblasi.com.

Illustrator Bio:
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Petronela Dostalova graduated from the Cambridge School of Art with a MA in Children’s Book Illustration. Before the MA she was studying Fine Arts at the University of East Anglia. In 2015 her children’s book The Reds and Greens was highly commended for the Creative Conscience Award. The project promoted equality. Petronela comes from a Czech-Slovak-Hungarian background but decided to nest into the heart of Suffolk where she currently lives and works with her partner and their dog Haribo. If you don’t find her drawing at her desk, she will be out traveling or cycling somewhere. She likes to be near, in, on, or underwater at any time of the day except when she is drawing–she is still working on a way to be able to do these things at the same time. Visit her at https://www.petroneladostalova.co.uk/.

Welcome, Annemarie! Thank you for joining us on the blog. Please briefly describe your journey to publication.
​
A: Thanks for having me! My road to publication began in April 2016 when I decided to write my first-ever children's book. Little did I know that my attempt would quickly become my first published work. I was teaching first grade at the time, and I was having a bit of difficulty finding lesser-known folktales to read aloud to my students. Every time I pulled out a book, I was met with, "We read that last year." So, in my quest to find new material, I poured over anthologies from the early 1900s that contained dozens of folktales and fairytales (my aunt handed down her collection to me). As I was thumbing through them, I came across the original version of How the Finch Got Her Colors and decided to put my spin on it. That was how my book How the Finch Got His Colors was born.
​
After I wrote it, I joined SCBWI, and that is where I met my dear friend Sarah who graciously mentored me through the whole publishing process. Sarah helped me edit Finch, craft my query letter and marketing plan, and get everything ready for submission.
After everything was set, I began to research houses that were open to unsolicited manuscripts (I did not have an agent at the time). I scoured the internet and the SCBWI PAL list and wrote down all the publishers I felt would be a good fit for my story. I started out small by sending Finch to just six houses. I wanted to see the kind of feedback I would receive before subbing more widely.  To my surprise, by June 16th, just two months after I subbed it, I received four offers of publication! Since I did not have an agent at the time, I hired a lawyer to go through each contract with me. We ended up signing with Familius, and the rest is history! My story is not the norm―lightning in a bottle, really. I know that people spend many years in the trenches. I feel really blessed.
​
Yes, my first shot was a lucky one. I know that. But that’s not to say my path has not had its challenges, too. I have had my fair share of rejections. I have had my first agent quit the business. I have made it all the way to acquisitions several times, only to be turned down at the last minute. But you can't let the bumps along the way deter you. If we choose to give up and not persevere, our books will never make it out there.  So, keep on striving. The world needs to hear your story.

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 most challenging thing about this business is the wait time. It can take months (up to a year) to hear back on a submission you’ve made. I think the other thing about this business that can be a challenge is when you don’t hear back at all. That can be disheartening.
​
The flip side to this question is the reward that you get when you do hear that YES. There is nothing like knowing that your written word will be out in the world, touching the hearts and minds of young children. It’s a pretty amazing feeling, and that is what keeps me motivated. It never gets old.

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: This may sound very basic, but when I used to teach writing (former elementary teacher), I always had my students fill out a story map prior to crafting their stories. The story map is a simple sheet of paper where one plans out the characters, setting, problem, plot events, and resolution parts of a story.  I have a similar template on my computer and use that to jot notes for each picture book. Once I have that set, I begin to craft my story. I will say, though, even with that structure in place, my writing doesn’t always go according to plan.  This is why it’s crucial to have critique partners. Sometimes I get so focused on creating a solid beginning and ending that my plot falls entirely flat. My critique partners are vital in helping me to identify the weak spots in my story and tighten them up.
 
In terms of the revision process, sometimes it is easy―a tweak here or there, and sometimes it’s a beast. I have one story sitting in my WIP box that has been there for almost two years! I just can’t seem to get it right, and that’s ok. It will happen when the time is right. With stories that work off the bat, I take notes from my critique partners, agent, editor, etc., and let their words soak in. If they resonate, I make the necessary changes. It really depends on the feedback that I receive. 

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 so many forthcoming projects. I have 6 books releasing in the next 3 years, and I hope even more than that!

Forthcoming:

1. Thundermaestro (Familius, Spring 2022)
2. Finding Mr. Trunks (Familius, Fall 2022)
3. A deal that I can’t announce just yet… LOL (Coming Summer 2022)
4. 123 Counting on Community (Familius, 2023)
5. Monsters Hide and Seek (Familius, 2024)
6. Turn on the Night (Hurn Pub Kids, 2024)
 
And many more projects in various stages in publishing. 

Wow! Congratulations on all your success, Annemarie, I'm so happy for you and glad that we're on this journey together! I can't wait for all of your upcoming books, and I know there will be many, many more! 

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 — social media shares are appreciated. Thank you!

1. How did you become an editor? Did you have any mentors who helped you along the way? And please tell us about Yeehoo as a publisher -- what are the company's values, goals, and missions?
​
I’ve been passionate about writing and drawing since I was a kid, but I never thought it would be a career option growing up in China. After I graduated from the University of Georgia with an MS in Economics, I landed a job in the marketing field. I learned how to use and draw in Photoshop to make attractive marketing materials. I did digital drawings and put a portfolio online. To my surprise, someone asked me if I could illustrate their picture book. Gradually, I illustrated more self-published picture books. I got involved in every step of bookmaking—from illustration to layout to cover design, typography, and book printing. When my son was born, I was inspired to write and illustrate my own picture books. The positive feedback encouraged me to do more. In 2018, with 10 picture books that I wrote and illustrated under my belt, I realized I wanted more than just a book out there. My dream was to write a book that could reach a wider audience and be carried by libraries and brick-and-mortar bookstores. I knew I needed a professional team with an editor, designer, and art director and marketing resources to back me up. Traditional publishing was the route to take. I started taking classes and attending conferences.

In August 2019, I attended the SCBWI conference in Los Angeles and met Mr. Zhang, the publisher, and two editors from Yeehoo Press. Luyang Xue, the acquisition editor, told me they were looking for someone to take charge of their publishing house’s US division. They wanted someone who could speak Mandarin and English and had experience in children’s book publishing and connections to authors in the US. 

My background was a perfect fit for Yeehoo’s criteria. They invited me to visit their offices in Shanghai and Suzhou for an in-depth discussion with the whole team. After a few months of talks and planning, I officially joined the team in November 2019.
​
Yeehoo Press creates and publishes fun, enchanting, and socially responsible children’s books for audiences worldwide, focusing on universal messages. Yeehoo publishes the English editions in the US and the simplified Chinese editions in mainland China. Starting with the US and Chinese markets—two of the largest children's book markets—Yeehoo’s goal is to find common ground between different countries and cultures and provide books with universal interest and appeal for readers worldwide.

2. What is your favorite part of the job and what is your least favorite part? What brings you joy in your position day in and day out?

Definitely getting the chance to think creatively—not only the book itself but also the whole collaboration process and all areas of the publishing business. To be the best advocate for your book, you have to know about contracts, subsidiary rights, the target audience, writing, art style, graphic design, marketing, publicity, sales, and so on. The goal is to support the author and the rest of the book team, including the illustrator, designer, and marketing team, in telling a compelling story. I love to see each step of how a book takes shape from plain text to a finished book. I always marvel at the journey of making picture books. You plant a seed and work hard to nurture it, and it surprises you months later with flowers! 

3. What is a typical workday for you? If there's no "typical" what are some of the tasks that have priority in any given workday?
​
Last year, I focused more on acquisitions. I used to read and review picture book manuscripts before presenting potential books to the acquisitions board. Some weeks, I only had a few manuscripts to read, while I had too many in other weeks. It can be really hot and cold, but every day starts with reading and taking notes.
This year, I focused more on the marketing side of the business, and our other editors do more of the acquisitions. I’m constantly looking at timing and scheduling. I always start with things at the top of my to-do list, and I regularly check on deadlines. I’m in meetings, liaising with different departments for each book, including editors who write the descriptive synopsis and catalog copy, the production team, who prints and ships the books, the sales team, who handle ads and promotions, and our acquisition editors about our new lists and acquisitions. It’s the little bits and pieces you’re doing throughout the day and over the course of many months to bring books into the world. 

4. Are you actively acquiring new books at this time? What are some of the stories you're looking for? What appeals to you?

We’re developing a new list, and our manuscript wish list will be updated from time to time. The best way to keep informed of our most up-to-date list is to check our submission guidelines https://yeehoopress.com/submissions/ and follow us on social media.

5. How do you evaluate submissions? What marks does a manuscript need to hit to be considered for acquisitions?

We’re always looking for strong writing, compelling plots, and universal messages. We also have to think in terms of our list. We have four editors acquiring picture books, and the acquisition decisions are made by the whole team. We will do in-depth market research on the books we’re ready to acquire in the US and Chinese markets. Depending on the market, readers’ tastes differ, and the way to promote books is different. We try to find books with themes that have common ground in different markets. Once our books are published in the English and Chinese editions, I believe it will be easier to reach other countries and cultures and be enjoyed by readers around the world.
​
For the acquisition process, our editors go through stacks of submissions, consider what we think may work for our program, create a memo to share with the team that includes a positioning statement about the book’s topic and why someone might want to buy it, a brief description of the story, an author bio, and comparable titles. In the US, the books will be published and promoted individually, while in mainland China, books by different authors and illustrators are commonly sold and promoted as collections or sets with a common theme. For a set of books, it could be from 3–10 books. We usually need to acquire at least three books about a particular theme—say emotions, STEAM, non-fictions about a particular topic—to establish a set of books. 

​6. What happens next? How is the acquisition process handled? Could you walk us through the process from submission to contract offer?

We usually have several rounds of acquisitions meetings. Occasionally, the manuscript might need some revisions, so we’ll also talk with the author about the possible revisions and make sure we’re on the same page and agree on the book’s direction. Acquisitions might take a few weeks to a few months, depending on our list. If we rush to complete a set of books, the acquisition will be faster. If we’re developing a new list, like we have been the past several months, we’re slow at acquisitions. When we’d like to acquire a book, we’ll send the author an offer with advances, royalty structures, and any other terms.

7. Are you currently taking submissions from illustrators?

Yes, we take submissions from illustrators. We’re actively looking for illustrators and browsing illustration agencies, portfolio websites, and social media. Submitting directly to us is a great way for us to get to know the artist.

8. What is the one thing people should avoid in submissions?

Some submissions don’t have a proper query letter. The query letter includes synopsis, pitch, age range, a short bio with the author’s writing experience, and three comparable titles. Though eventually, it’s the manuscript itself that we evaluate, a strong query frequently makes the difference in the submission grabbing our interest immediately.

9. How does Yeehoo support its authors and illustrators after the acquisition process and post-publication? Would you highlight some of the marketing, promotion, and distribution support your titles receive? For example, do you work with indie bookstores, big chains, school libraries, do you submit your books to journal reviews, awards etc.?

After the acquisition, we have several editors in the US who will do the actual editing with the author. They all have years of experience working in large publishing houses and will make the manuscript the best it can possibly be. It is also time to find an illustrator. We’d like to ask potential candidates to draw a sample character to see their interpretation. We select the artist based on the art style, character design, timeline, and budget. After we officially bring the illustrator on board, they will create a storyboard, then rough sketches, and then colored spreads. Our designer will jump in to start the layout design when 90% of the artwork is finished. The art director, the designer, and the illustrator will work together to ensure the final book is polished to perfection.

Our marketing starts about six months before publication. In China, we share the marketing channels and resources with our publishing partner, Phoenix Media & Group. We have distributors in different provinces in China and for online and offline bookstores. In the US, we also partner with the distributor here to make our books available to teachers, librarians, and booksellers through the regular sales channels. We send our books to be reviewed by all the major children's literature journals, such as Publishers Weekly, School Library Journal, Kirkus, The Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books, and so on, and submit them for national, state, and numerous other awards. We also reach out to blogs, podcasts, and social media influencers for reviews and shoutouts. We contact independent bookstores and libraries for author events and storytimes. There are so many marketing ideas and approaches, and we love to work with amazing authors and illustrators to achieve success in the literary world.

10. What projects are you working on right now for Yeehoo's list? What are you excited about and why? Any upcoming titles you could share with us?

We’re really excited about our upcoming titles this year. Milo’s Moonlight Mission (June 15) by Kathleen M. Blasi, illustrated by Petronela Dostalova, is an emotionally resonant, heartwarming tale of a parent and a child struggling to find quality time together—a challenge with which many parents and children can identify. The Perfect Party (August 10) by Laurel P. Jackson, illustrated by Hélène Baum-Owoyele, celebrates the beauty of different cultures and the strength of collaboration. The Whole World Inside Nan's Soup (August 24) by Hunter Liguore, illustrated by Vikki Zhang, in which Nan shares the wisdom that one bowl of soup contains an assortment of traditions and places. From farmhand to delivery drivers to market merchants, readers can see all the essential hands it takes to bring a meal together. Chameleon Can Be (September 7) by Carolina Farías is an adventure of guessing riddles, learning about animals, and discovering the importance of being true to yourself.

We’re also working on another eight titles for spring 2022, and we can’t wait to bring all these adorable books to life!

I cannot wait, either -- especially since one of those adorable books in my own! Aaah, I'm so excited and look forward to sharing it with the word. :) 

Thank you so much for your time, Helen, and for giving us such thorough insight into the publishing process at Yeehoo Press as well as sharing all these amazing books on Yeehoo's list! 

I know that you also have a new book of your own coming out, published by Beaming Books, so I hope you'll be back to KidLit Oasis as a guest author next time.

I wish you all the best on your journey and I look forward to many more books from you, personally, and from Yeehoo Press. 

G I V E A W A Y ! ! !
Helen Wu is giving away one non-rhyming picture book critique.
Here's how to enter the giveaway by 6/14/21:

1. Leave a comment on this post
2. Subscribe to KidLit Oasis
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*Social media shares are optional, but encouraged and appreciated! Spread the word, and invite your writer and illustrator friends over to KidLit Oasis!
Don't forget to tag me (@RosiePOV on Twitter)

​>>>>>The winner will be announced on 6/15/21<<<<<​

​Helen H. Wu is a children’s book author and illustrator of over 20 picture books, as well as a translator, graphic designer, and publisher. Her new picture book, Tofu Takes Time, illustrated by Julie Jarema, will be published by Beaming Books in spring 2022. She illustrated the educational coronavirus picture book Be a Coronavirus Fighter by Songju Ma Daemicke, which received many praises all around the world and has been translated into 12 languages. Helen is the Associate Publisher of Yeehoo Press, a Los Angeles based children’s book publisher. Being fascinated by the differences and similarities between cultures, Helen loves to share stories that can empower children to understand the world and our connections. Born and raised in Hefei, China, Helen moved to the US in her 20s. Currently, she resides in sunny Southern California, with her family and two kids.

Welcome back, dear readers! 

Surprise! This week, instead of my regular interview with a KidLit professional, I am reviewing a book! 

So, let's dive in as I introduce to you this newly released picture book, Kindness is a Kite String, written by Michelle Schaub and illustrated by Claire LaForte, published by Cardinal Rule Press (April 1, 2021).

Description by the publisher: 

During a year fraught with a global pandemic, racial injustice, a combative political season and a “new normal” way of living, Kindness is a Kite String is a welcome, cheerful, and simple story designed to embrace diversity and encourage empathy. 

Have you ever felt sunshine warm on your face? Watched a kite soar? Crossed over a bridge? Kindness is a Kite String describes kindness through experiences children will find familiar, using similes and metaphors. The story guides the reader through a journey of the power of empathy and explains how kindness spreads happiness like sunshine; ultimately connecting diverse groups of people and the community at large.
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Hello, everyone!

This week, I am so excited to welcome an author and editor team to KidLit Oasis! Nicholas Solis and his editor at Sleeping Bear Press, Sarah Rockett, will give us the inside scoop of their collaboration on The Color Collector, the behind-the-scenes details from submission to acquisition and beyond, plus much more!

But that's not all! Sleeping Bear Press is also kindly giving away a copy of the book to one of my blog readers -- check out the details at the end of the interview.  

And now, without further ado, here are Nick and Sarah! Thank you both for being on KidLit Oasis and for sharing this wonderful book with my readers! Let me start with my first question to Nick...

1. Nick, please tell us about the journey of publication for The Color Collector -- from the inspiration for the story and writing the first draft to how it ended up on Sarah's desk. I love hearing about the story behind the story and my readers do, too!

My inspiration for The Color Collector was a piece of art that was hanging up at The Austin Art Garage in Austin, TX. It had a lonely little girl, with the saddest eyes I had ever seen, catching falling leaves and placing them in a knapsack. The painting stuck with me for days and I just kept wondering about why she was so sad. I wrote several rough drafts, but none of them felt right. Then one night I woke up at two in the morning with the entire story. I quickly wrote it down before I forgot it. It was much sparser than the original drafts, but the text felt like it fit the lonely little girl with the sad eyes. I continued to work on the draft over the next few years, and started taking classes at The Writing Barn, where I was able to edit it with the help of the fantastic authors who taught there.
​
In 2018, I was at the International Literacy Association Conference where I started talking to Sarah about books. We traded contacts and I sent in some of my stories to Sleeping Bear Press, and she liked The Color Collector!!!  
 
2. Sarah, please guide us through your thoughts and the process from when you first read The Color Collector to acquiring the story. What made you fall in love with it? What stood out?
​
Meeting Nick at the ILA conference was such a joy! I could tell how passionate he is about his students and writing for kids—I knew he would be a wonderful author. Nick ended up submitting a handful of manuscripts to us. They all had a ton of potential, and most were really funny, but Color Collector felt really intentional and soulful. The themes of finding beauty in the discarded and being a friend felt really timely. There were so many directions a reader could go with the story. And it had such amazing illustration potential. Luckily, our acquisition team agreed and we were able to sign the project!

3. Nick, how different is the final, published story from the draft that Sarah saw?
​
It’s pretty similar to the draft that Sarah saw. Sarah has a fantastic eye for editing, and she helped me really tighten up the story. But overall, it was just losing a word or phrase here or there. We did lose one page of text, but that was replaced with the amazing illustrations of Renia Metallinou!
 
4. Sarah, what was the revision process like after acquisitions?

Nick is right. Not a ton changed with the manuscript in the revision process. But when you’re working with a picture book manuscript—and especially one like Color Collector that is lyrical in nature and already has a tight word count—every single word and punctuation mark is really important. We made a handful of word choice and style edits, but not much more than that. Nick was collaborative and flexible as we worked on the story. It was a great partnership!

​5.  Nick, what surprised you the most in the journey of this book?

The thing that surprised me most was the editing process. This is the first book that I ever worked with an editor on. I wasn’t exactly sure how it would go. When you sell a book, you’re just happy to get it out there and you’ll pretty much agree to anything. But you struggle with questions like, “What if they change my entire book?” or “What if they get rid of a part that I really love?” But when Sara came back with edits, I thought they were all really great suggestions.
One thing that I absolutely appreciated was when I asked Sarah if we could change the characteristics of the narrator and she enthusiastically agreed. I wanted someone who looked more like me. I’m Mexican-American and I’m trying to push for more representation in the books I create. Sarah and Sleeping Bear Press were on board without question. We gave the boy character tan skin and dark hair like mine and many of the students I teach. I love that they can see themselves inside this book.   
 
6. Sarah, please tell us how the illustrator was chosen and how the selection process works at Sleeping Bear Press. What was your vision for the art and who were the people involved in the decision? Are authors asked for input?
​
The illustrator selection process is really a team effort at Sleeping Bear. I always ask the author for input on what they see as the style for the book. And then the art director and I talk about what we see working and narrow down a list of choices. Sometimes we all see something different for a particular story, but in this case I think we all wanted to see something creative with dramatic colors. Our art director is wonderful and always guides this process in the right direction. She has a knack for seeing artist portfolios and knowing how they might be able to use their style to make the book shine. And then our authors are looped in for notes throughout the sketch and final art process. The illustration process can be stressful for authors. It’s like sending your kid to sleepaway camp or daycare for the first time! But this is the author’s story and we want them to love the book 100%.

7. Nick, what do you hope readers will take away from the story and what do you believe would resonate with them? How do you envision young kids connecting to your characters?
​
The main thing I would love readers to take away from this book is that even a small act of kindness can make a huge difference. The narrator is curious about what Violet does with all of the things she collects. He basically asks her a question and then just listens. That’s it. But that small act of kindness made a huge difference in her life. My parents divorced when I was young, so I had to move schools in the middle of the year. I had no friends and no one to talk to. I was absolutely miserable. But one day in class a kid named Dylan said hi to me. We talked for a bit and I met some of his friends. That small interaction changed the course of my entire life. I was a shy, introverted kid. But as the school year progressed, I came out of my shell. I made more and more friends. I later became a teacher that used my story to help spread kindness throughout my classroom. And now I am a writer with a book hoping to spread that message to a wider audience. It all happened with a simple, “Hi.” But it completely changed my life. I hope the readers will do the same for someone else they meet along the way. 
                                                                                  * * * 

​Nicholas Solis is an award-winning elementary teacher and author. In 2018, he was the recipient of the Walter Dean Myers Grant from We Need Diverse Books. Growing up, he didn’t have a lot of friends. He moved around a lot and being the new kid at school wasn’t always easy. But in junior high, one kid reached out and was simply nice to him. That gesture of friendship has shaped Nicholas’s entire life. He regularly brings up that story with his students in the hopes of motivating them to reach out to others whenever they can. He lives with his wife, Morgan, their dog, Charlie, and their amazing son, Leo, in Austin, Texas. Learn more about Nicholas at nicholassolis.com

​​Sarah Rockett has been working in the children's publishing industry for more than a decade and truly believes that picture books have the power to change the world. She loves traveling, spending time outdoors, and--of course--reading. She lives in Michigan with her husband, young son, and lazy cocker spaniel.

Happy Tuesday, everyone!

This week, my guest on KidLit Oasis is author and illustrator Amanda Davis, and I can't wait to hear more about her journey as a writer that led to the release of her debut, 30,000 STITCHES. Plus, a chance for you to win a copy of the book!

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

A: Hi Rosie, thanks so much for having me on the blog! I’m excited to be here to celebrate 30,000 STITCHES together! My love for art and writing stems back to my childhood. My father passed away when I was twelve, and I turned to art and writing to cope and process my emotions. This is what led me to teach art and later write and illustrate children’s books. I want to show kids the power in our stories-whether through writing, reading or visual art. In 2012, I took a continuing education course at the School of the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston called, Illustrating Children’s Books, with illustrator, Ilse Plume. This course was eye opening for me and kick-started my career in kidlit. I realized that children’s books combine all three of my passions: art, writing, and stories. After completing that course, I dove headfirst into the craft of writing and illustrating for children (while balancing my job as a full-time high school teacher). I joined SCBWI, 12x12, and found a local and online critique group. I tried to soak in all the knowledge I could about the kidlit industry. I began to query literary agents and editors with a few of my stories. Looking back, I probably queried those stories too early, but hey, that’s part of the learning process. The story that finally landed me an agent and later a deal is my debut creative nonfiction picture book titled 30,000 STITCHES: THE INSPIRING STORY OF THE NATIONAL 9/11 FLAG, illustrated by the amazing Sally Wern Comport and due out with WorthyKids/Hachette Book Group on May 4th.

I first learned about the story back in 2011 when I facilitated an art lesson around the story of the flag with my art students for the tenth remembrance of 9/11. The story lingered in my head, but needed time to flourish. Later, after visiting the National September 11 Memorial & Museum in 2014 and being overcome with emotion at the artifacts and the stories, it was a reminder of the importance of telling this story of the flag.So, I decided to try my hand at crafting a manuscript for it. I have a background in journalism, so it was a delight getting to research and interview primary sources for the story. From the Ground Zero Superintendent to Flag Tour Staff, the people who I spoke to about the flag, were incredible. Once I had the story polished up, which was many months later, I began to query agents and editors. The process of landing an agent and book deal was filled with ups and downs. I had many passes along the way but most were positive and many had personalized feedback, so I knew I was on the right track.  I even got a few requests to revise and resubmit. I submitted to WorthyKids by snail mail through the slush pile and after many months of not hearing back, I took that as a pass.

I continued to query the story and later, connected with agent, Melissa Richeson who signed me for the project. Seven months later, an assistant editor from WorthyKids contacted me to ask if the story was still available. Of course, I said a big and enthusiastic YES, connected her with Melissa. The rest is history!

Long story short, it took me about nine years to get my first picture book traditionally published! It can be a long and winding road to get there, but if you keep pressing ahead, you are bound to meet your destination.

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: Oooh, good question! There are many, ha! I think one of the biggest and most consistent challenges has been getting varying feedback from agents and editors when querying them with my stories-especially with nonfiction. As with any art, writing and illustrating are subjective. Each agent or editor has particular tastes and will have different opinions on how to make your story stronger (or you get little feedback at all). For example, when querying 30,000 STITCHES, some agents and editors wanted to see more of the factual information from the back matter directly in the text while others wanted to keep it more sparse. It’s hard to wade through these reactions and know exactly what to do. I remember putting so much pressure on myself to get the revisions right and thinking “this is my one chance!” In the end, many of those revisions didn’t end up landing me a deal but did lead me to a version of the story that sold to WorthyKids.  I think so much of what we do as creators is about taking risks, following our gut, crossing our fingers, and hoping for the best. On the business side of things, often times there are many factors that are out of our control, which can be also frustrating. For example, maybe a particular editor just recently acquired a similar story so they pass on yours, or perhaps their profit and loss statement doesn’t fall in your favor, or maybe they’re looking for very specific stories to balance out theirtheir list. Each of these scenarios has happened to me. So, with so many unknowns, all we can do is keep writing, revising, and lean into our critique groups and, loved ones for support. We must continue to remind ourselves to find the joy in creating and know that the more stories we write and illustrate, the better our chances will be that one will resonate strongly with an agent or editor. Most importantly, children need our stories. And, for me, if positive thinking and self-talk aren’t doing the trick, I turn to my rescue pup, Cora for comfort. She’s always willing to lend a listening ear. :)

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 revision process for my writing is much like my revision process for my art. Many versions, and much research. My first drafts for my writing are like my rough sketches for my illustrations-loose and organic. As I get feedback, I begin to revise and the images and words get more refined. I thought it might be fun to take a look at revision from the illustration side so I included a few examples from the illustrations I recently did for The Writer’s Loft, Friends and Anemones: Ocean Poems for Children anthology. Before even putting pencil to paper, I had to do a lot of research on the creatures of the deep sea such as, vampire squids, angler fish, and sea pens. Finally, once I had a solid idea of what the creatures looked like, I put pencil to paper and completed a rough sketch.  Same thing for my narwhal illustration. You can see the different versions and how the images evolved. With the narwhal illustration, the original poem started off sad but then the author was asked by the editors to brighten the mood, which in turn shifted my dark and dreary illustration. I had to flex and mold my image to fit the cheery new poem, which meant a brighter color palette to create a joyful mood and revising the expressions and positioning of the narwhal characters. When writing, my revision process tends to be the same, it’s important to stay open and loose with first drafts, not get too attached to any version, and of course, leave room for the illustrations. 

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: Yes! Tonight is my first launch event at The Silver Unicorn Bookstore! I’m super pumped to be in conversation with members of the flag tour staff as we discuss their role with the flag and reflect on the upcoming 20th remembrance of 9/11.

You can register for the event HERE! If you register, you’ll be entered for a chance to win a five-pack of lovely notecards featuring art by Sally Wern Comport from the book. The winner will be announced at the end of the event and must be in attendance to win. I hope you all can join us!!

​30,000 STITCHES celebrations continue throughout the month! The complete schedule can be found HERE or see below for the full list. Allevents are virtual, FREE and open to all! Follow along my virtual blog tour for more giveaways and interviews as well! It’s been such a blast chatting with you, Rosie. Thanks again for having me, and best of luck on your own creative projects!! Cheers!

​Amanda Davis is a teacher, artist, writer, and innovator who uses her words and pictures to light up the world with kindness. Amanda is the author of 30,000 STITCHES: THE INSPIRING STORY OF THE NATIONAL 9/11 FLAG and has poetry and illustrations featured in The Writers’ Loft Anthology, FRIENDS AND ANEMONES: OCEAN POEMS FOR CHILDREN. When she’s not busy creating, you can find her sipping tea, petting dogs, and exploring the natural wonders of The Bay State with her partner and her rescue pup, Cora.