Welcome to my new blog, which now includes content from many of the blogs I’ve created over the years. You can now also access content via category from this one page instead of having to search for my individual blogs, which were scattered over various platforms and websites.
To those who never have problems writing the first drafts of their novels, you can skip this post. For others like me who sometimes find it a challenge (especially during the past couple of years) getting that first draft down, I highly recommend Linda Sue Park’s 12-minute Pomodoro routine. I . . .
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 . . .
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 . . .
Heartfelt thanks to Maureen Tai for featuring my solo picture book SAM & EVA in the newest episode of A BOOKISH MINUTE! Do check out Maureen’s website as well as the wonderful children’s book review blog, Stories That Stay With Us. Also wanted to add an extra thanks to all . . .
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 . . .
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 . . .
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, . . .
I posted poll on social media 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. Don’t . . .
(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 . . .