Midweek Notes from a Practicing Writer
Three quick updates from my desk.
1. My continuing education in the writing of kidlit continues. This week, I read a picture book that I think may serve as a model for the kind of picture-book biography that I hope to write. I also went ahead and joined the Society for Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI).
2. I know that I keep talking about the Association of Jewish Libraries (AJL) conference that I attended a few weeks ago—but its effects are lasting! Check out this new post on the My Machberet blog, the origins of which can be traced to a conference session all about book clubs. I’m convinced that much of my ability to write the post stems from my background as a short-story writer—and the many years I spent learning about literary magazines, websites, and contests as I sought to place my own work.
3. After a distressing drought (please don’t ask—I’m not sure how to explain), I sent out a freelance article pitch yesterday. Even if it turns out to be an unsuccessful pitch, I’m momentarily uplifted by the sheer fact that I wrote and sent it.
Dear Erika,
Perhaps not a drought but a dormancy. Sometimes the roots need to be nourished a long time before they push the green into air and light.
JC Todd
I like that thought. Thank you!
Erika,
Thanks for the heads-up about the Judah Touro bio! I’ve been looking at all my PB bio mss. lately and wondering how to get them to the point of (re)submission. Maybe the Touro bio will help!
I hope so! Good luck!
Just write, our friend. Anything. You’ll hop back in the saddle and gallop on with vigor & joy as before. :]
Thank you!