Lynn on the Tucson Festival of Books Main Drag
Sometimes it takes me a couple of months to digest savory notes on writing. Such is the case with the incredible 2015 Tucson Festival of Books. There I found information and experience concerning all genres about children’s books, especially writing them. I uncovered at least 30 nuggets of knowledge. I didn’t have to dig deep to find that practical information and inspiration on writing and publishing books for children. Below is a list (in no particular order) of the first 10 morsels of writing wisdom I unearthed from the numerous talented children book authors who held presentations at the two-day festival:
- Write with hope.
- Children’s books need a message, but don’t be didactic.
- Put away your manuscript for three to six months to see if you perceive it differently when you pick it back up.
- When your manuscript “feels” right, then it’s done! Also when your critique group can’t find anything.
- You need to be tough. It takes many rejections, submissions and never quitting to become published.
- If you don’t submit you won’t be rejected…or published!
- Take the time to get into your “creative head space.” Interruptions take time away from creativity.
Doreen Cronin, author of the very well-received picture book, “Click Clack Moo: Cows That Type,” talks about creating memorable characters using her book, “Diary Of A Worm.”
- Find “writing windows” in your regular schedule.
- Know yourself and your limitations. Sometimes time, life, and health will interfere.
- Reward yourself with chocolate and pizza. (I’m onboard with that!)
Next time we’ll look at the following 10 nuggets of knowledge in Part 2. I find that 1, 5, 6, and 10, are personal gold for me because they hit at the heart of my writing life, especially as an aspiring children’s author. Your Input: Among these first 10 pearls of writing wisdom, which speak to you the most and why?
