Saturday, August 22, 2009

What's next?

While doing research on some of the links from Joyce I subscribed to a Children's author's newsletter. They are having a writers Boot Camp in October, in Boulder, Co.
That's where I'll be....
I plan to work on the book a bit on my next school break and follow a couple other leads.
During winter break I will spend some focused time...I'm thinking snow....cabin....fireplace...quiet writing time....ahhhh

Thanks for checkin' in, I'll keep you posted.

Where I'm at in the journey

I wrote a story about Chervil, a sandollar, and decided that I loved the idea and message. It was the kind of story I wanted to be able to read to my grandchildren.
I decided to ask someone who had done it, hence my links to Joyce Sandilands. I had actually purchased several books from Robert Whittle, her husband. She was very helpful and sent me many links to resources. I have read some of them, but not all.
I knew I needed an illustrator and began to ask around for anyone that may have known an illustrator and got a few tips, but no real solid leads.

What I discovered or have heard is that I need to have an illustrator if I self publish,,,which is what Joyce has done, in Canada.
OR
If I find an agent, they can hook me up with an illustrator.

So in preparation for trying to find an agent, I laid out the book in the format I wanted, added the text to describe the type of illustration I wanted on each page and then sent it out for feedback to friends and colleagues.
I have received a great amount of feedback and loved every bit of it....that's where I'm at.

Tuesday, August 18, 2009

Another reason.....

As I recall the reasons why publishing a childrens book is important, I remember my nieces, specifically Amanda, who read books non-stop. When she was in Jr. High I asked her. "what have you NOT read a book about?" and she gave me some inspiration for my next book after Chervil. (I'll tell you about Chervil in a bit.)

Saturday, August 15, 2009

Welcome to my Journey


When my first grandchild was born I began to look at the books that were available to read to him as he grew up. There are so many books, that cover so many different themes that I was a bit confused at first.
Looking at some of the modern classic books I smiled remembering when I read them to my own children. I also did not find books that delivered the messages or information that I wanted to share with them as they grew up. So, I have decided to write some books that include those messages and stories.
Chervil is the main character in the first story I have written and this blog will track the journey to getting the story published.
I would love your comments or suggestions along the way. Thanks for joining me on this journey.