Feelng the Pain of Rejection? Laurie Halse Anderson Understands . ..

Now I know it's the start of a brand new year, and I probably shouldn't speak of rejection, but Laurie Halse Anderson understands your pain. Laurie is the author of Speak, Fever 1793 and other great novels. This wonderful article speaks to the pain of rejection, but also the inspiration to move past and continue forward. And isn't moving forward what the New Year celebrations are all about? Happy New Year and happy writing!

Hopewell Christian Preschool Visit

How great my little friends were at Hopewell! They listened so attentively, and asked wonderful questions. We talked about our favorite part of the book, and the illustrations they liked best. The true meaning of Christmas seems to be a year-round feeling at Hopewell. Thanks for a great day!

St. Thomas the Apostle Grade School

I had a wonderful time with my friends at St. Thomas the Apostle. The kids were excited and the audience even included several newspaper reporters and photographers. I was delighted to be one of the "Real Life Authors" that has visited the school. This article in the Delco Times captures the spirit of the day.

Christmas is in the Air - KidLit Authors Club

I had the pleasure of signing with a bunch of fantastic writers from the Kidlit Authors Club at Borders in Exton Mall yesterday. Things were busy at the bookstore (always a good sign!) and we were we were busy signing too (another good sign!). This group of PA, NJ and DE authors spans the genres of picture book, middle grade and young adult. If you are a teacher, librarian or bookstore owner check out our KidLit Author Club. We'll coordinate a party at your school or library. Put Kidlit Author Club on your wish list this year. Check out the website at http://www.kidlitauthorsclub.com/

What to Give the Writer on Your List?

Hmm....what to give that favorite writer for Christmas? Can't wrap a publishing contract, movie deal or face-to-face with that sought-after agent? No need to fret - ideas are plentiful!

* a one-year membership to SCBWI

* a Mentoring Workshop or conference sponsored by SCBWI

* a subscription to Children's Writers newsletter

* paid manuscript critique with an agent/editor at a workshop

* book of stamps for submitting manuscripts by snail mail

* gift card to Staples (in an attempt to keep our writing space clean)

* subscription to Fast Pencil for the novel writers

Most valuable gift: a hug sprinkled with encouraging words, and a dash of faith from those who love us. This will keep us happy all year long.

'Tis the season . . .for School Visits !

School visits galore! Can't wait for December 1st as I begin the rounds of author visits to preschools and elementary schools. I love the visits - the schools are always gracious and the students ask fantastic questions! If you are on my list of schools this year, see you soon and be sure to check back for photos of our day together!

PiBoIdMo: Are You In On The Fun?

Today is November 2nd, and if you are a PiBoIdMo participant you should have your second idea penciled in. If you are not a participant, you are saying, "What the heck are you talking about?" PiBoIdMo is a funny name, but loaded with creativity and imagination. Tara Lazar is sponsoring Picture Book Idea Month on her blog.

The goal: each day in November, come up with a new picture book idea.

The details: it can be just the title, a jacket blurb, an outline or an entire first draft!

The reward: winners will submit their top five ideas to agents. The agents listed on Tara's blog will provide feedback on the picture books.

The other reward: you now have a folder of 30 picture books titles!

Jump on over to Tara's blog and sign up as a participant. And for goodness sake, get writing!