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Author Archive

Pagination in Picture Books: Should You Or Shouldn’t You?

In prepping for a picture book writing workshop I did recently (via Journey For Kidlit), I posted a poll on Twitter to find out how picture book writers, agents and editors felt about pagination in submissions. Results were fascinating. And people are still posting answers, so feel free to bookmark . . .



Summer Reading Resources 2022

Looking for reading-focused recommendation sheets and activities? Feel free to check out my free, print-ready archives and especially the section with book review and recommendation sheets. Here are just a few: Bookmark Recommendations: Finding Summer Reading Activities and Programs: Check your local library. Chances are good that you’ll find summer . . .




June 7th, 2022: Art & Story: Picture Book Writing 101 (online)

I’m delighted to partner with Brooke Van Sickle and Journey To Kidlit to offer a picture book writing workshop (online) geared toward beginning picture book writers. Don’t know the difference between a picture book manuscript and a short story? Want to know more about picture book manuscript format? Confused about . . .



FAQ: How do I get started as a children’s book illustrator? (Part 1)

For more advice and resources, please visit my main FAQ: Answers To Frequently Asked Questions, especially my top pieces of advice for those who want to write or illustrate books for young people someday. I’ve been asked this many times but have postponed adding something “official” to my main FAQ . . .




Interview with SWIM, JIM! debut picture book author/illustrator, Kaz Windness

Kaz Windness is an author-illustrator who loves to make her readers laugh. When she’s not writing or illustrating books, Kaz teaches illustration at the Rocky Mountain College of Art + Design and enjoys making deep-dish pizza. Kaz lives in Denver, Colorado, with her husband, two sons, and Boston terrier. Swim, . . .



POLL RESULTS: How book creators cope with other creators’ success

I recently posted a poll on Twitter, asking how creators cope with the occasional (or not so occasional) twinge of wistfulness or envy when hearing about a colleague’s success. I go through this sometimes as well, especially if I’m already feeling low or have been going through a rough time. . . .



Where to find me online these days

(Last updated April 7, 2023) I’ve been online since the early days of the Internet, before the term “social media” existed. I have also signed up for many online services, joined many online communities. Because of this, it can be confusing if you’re trying to look for me online. I’ll . . .



STEALING HOME by J. Torres and David Namisato (Kids Can Press)

Just finished STEALING HOME by J. Torres and David Naimsato, now available from Kids Can Press; I bought my copy from Mabel’s Fables. LOVED. Geared toward middle grade, this graphic novel focuses on Sandy Saito, a young baseball fan whose family is forced to move away from their home in . . .