Wednesday Writers Weigh In: Beginnings

With every ending there is a beginning....that's what I keep telling myself as my job ends this Friday.
After the holidays I intend to spend the month of January living the "life of a writer" and putting all of my focus on this endeavor...while looking for the next job, of course.

I am calling it "30 Days of Living the Dream".  Not bad, eh?  :)

So I have been spending a lot of time deciding how to organize both my days and my work once 2013 arrives.  In this way, Twyla has been very helpful.

Chapter 5 is all about finding an organizational style that works for you.  It might not be Twyla's box idea...maybe you work better on the computer, in file folders, on Pinterest.  Its personal...but probably pretty important.

But as I look to January my biggest fear is sitting down to work and not knowing how to start.  This happens all of the time.  I stare forever at the blank screen and the blinking cursor and my brilliant idea in my head just won't come out.

However, Twyla brilliantly says, "there's a difference between a work's beginning and starting to work."

Remember, you don't have to start at the beginning.  Once Chekov was asked by a nephew how he knew where to start and he replied, "That your book and tear it in half.  Begin there."

Your exercise from Chapter 5 is just that "Begin!".  Do you have a brilliant character and you just don't know what his full story is?  Do you know a bit of it?  Do you know how it will end?   You have a great climax?  Do you just want to know more about the character? 

How do you "begin"?  Share your ideas here...I could use them!  :)

Wednesday Writers Weigh In: A Blessing or a Curse?

In Chapter 3: Your Creative DNA, Twyla Tharp states that it is important to know your strengths and your weaknesses and commit to ONE.  She is a firm believer that being "good at" several artistic endeavors is actually a curse, rather than a blessing.  For an example, she uses a high school athlete.  If a kid is good at basketball and baseball and football and has desires to play sports professionally, he must CHOOSE and COMMIT to ONE sport to become all he can be.  In this case she states, to achieve the highest possible competency in a particular area requires one to wear only one hat and have a singular focus.

This has been a problem for me.

Basically Twyla is against any kind of dabbling.  She requires total and utter committment.

I, personally, LOVE to dabble.  In my former life I was a teacher, an actress, a director.  I love to noodle around on the guitar and ukulele.  I adore cooking.  I like arts and crafts.  I don't pretend to be an amazing marathon runner, but I do enjoy long distance running.  I am a nanny.  A girlfriend.  A sister.  A daughter.  An aunt.  And a writer.

I feel that dabbling keeps me versatile and allows me to enjoy many aspects of life.  It might even make me a better writer.

Sometimes scheduling can be difficult.  I need to get in a run, go to work, spend time with my boyfriend, make dinner and get some writing in all in 24 hours.  But I do not have the ability to focus ONLY on writing...nor do I really want to.  I kinda like my many hats.

What do you think? 

Writers Weigh In!  Do you dabble in other endeavors?  Do you help or hinder you?  Or both?

Wednesday Writers Weigh In: Rituals of Preparation

Yesterday we laid out Twyla Tharp's 4 Rituals for Preparation as discussed in Chapter 2 of "Creative Habit: Learn it and Use it for Life".  If you haven't read the post, you might want to.

A recap...

4 Rituals of Preparation:

 

1)  Find the environment that works for you

2)  Develop the start-up ritual that impels you forward every day.

3)  Face down your fears

4)  Put distractions in their proper place

Now that we have had time to digest and perhaps get indigestion from Twyla's suggestions, its time to reflect. 

Of Twyla's 4 Rituals, is there one element you can see yourself adopting?  Is there a way to try one of her methods this week? What spoke to you?  What do you struggle with?

Writers, Weigh In and let us know what your take-away from Chapter 2 is.

And join us on Friday, when I will provide some exercises/homework to help you.  :)

Wednesday Writers Weigh In: My 2 Published Books...kinda

It is often said that there are only a few stories out there, a few ideas and they keep getting recycled over and over.  This is said mainly by editors, agents, and writing teachers who claim that originality is hard to come by.  Its usually used as a battle cry to find something unique.  Something fresh.

But its true.  And here is my "story"...which I am sure you all have experienced, too.

My first published book came out in 2010 and was published by Greenwillow Books...which is crazy because I don't have an agent and never sent in a query.  It was just published.

I came up with the idea while participating in PiBoIdMo 2011.  Yes, my book that was published in 2010 was an idea that I didn't come up with til 2011.  What's the confusion?

My 3rd idea for PiBoIdMo last year says, "A porcupine desperately wants a balloon.  Everyone else at birthday parties gets a balloon...except porcupines...for obvious reasons.  But Milford (the procupine) is determined to find a way!"

You guessed it!  My book has the EXACT same premise at the uber-talented Deborah Underwood's A BALLOON FOR ISABEL.  Wow, right?  Guess I won't be spending any time on that idea. 

Next!

As a participant in 12x12 this year, I came up with my August manuscript and was feeling quite pleased.  In fact, its gone through a lot of revisions.  And I'll admit that I am not incredibly happy with the climax and resolution....but I truly felt, up until last night, that I was getting closer.

Last night I had some time to kill and I decided to feed my writer's soul by browsing the shelves at Books of Wonder. 

While browsing the Picture Book section I spotted a book on the bottom shelf that caught my eye.  I had never seen it or heard of it before and just by the title I could tell that it was "similar" to my August 12x12 manuscript.

Internal Spread from the Stan Wackarrino book in question.

I said to myself, "Self, you probably shouldn't pick that up and read it...in case you get influenced by it."  However, I was curious and I opened up the book.  To my dismay it had the EXACT climax and resolution to my August manuscript!!!  I couldn't believe it!

Now I don't want to give too much away, but it was published in 2001 by a highly-respected and often-published author/illustrator who's name rhymes with Stan Wackarrino. 

I was crushed.  This was not just an "idea" of mine that I found on the shelves.  It was a MANUSCRIPT that I had poured myself...along with Stan Wackarrino apparently...into.

So what is the takeaway?

• I know firsthand that a truly original idea is hard to come by.
• There is at least a part of me that is proud to have the same ideas as some of the best in the biz. That must count for something. 
• Its back to the drawing board.  Time to take my "Stan Wackarrino-esque" story and turn it on its head.  Find a new twist.  Make it fresher.
• Being a writer is tough.

What about you, writers?  Do you have similar stories?
Weigh In and share.  I bet we find out that even our frustrations are NOT original.

Wednesday Writers Weigh In: When the Monsters are Real

The sun came out briefly today in NYC.  I have never been so excited to see blue sky.  But quickly the clouds have rolled back in.

As I was holed up in my Brooklyn apartment during the storm, I could not help but think about all of the other creatives doing what they could to maintain some semblance of normalcy as we waited and waited.  Some, I am sure, were using their laptops, getting as much written and saved as possible before a power outage.  Others were probably using pens, pencils, paper and other archaic materials.  I am sure it is only a matter of time before we see all that was "created" during this time.

All in all, NYC has faired well and you can be sure we will come back better than ever soon. 

Today is Halloween.  The Greenwich Village Parade which is an annual fixture was canceled.  And honestly, I am still reeling from some of the real life horrors, that Halloween is far from my mind.

I was going to post about Halloween Picture Books and have others weigh in with their favorites.  But Tara Lazar and Peter Adam Salomon do a great job of that today at http://taralazar.com/2012/10/31/pre-pibo-day-7-peter-adam-salomon/.  (btw, quick reminder that PiBoIdMo starts tomorrow, so sign up!)

Instead, as my own mind tries to grasp the long road ahead of so many of us, I realize that books are a HUGE help on this journey.  Bookstores did a great business before the storm and some even rode it out.  My local indie bookstore was open to provide some much needed escapism in paper form.

The Red Cross asked residents of Brooklyn to chip in and help a local shelter which was in need of towels and...wait for it...BOOKS!  Immediately Greenlight Bookstore in the Fort Greene neighborhood Tweeted, "You guys provide the towels, we are on our way with the books!"  Doesn't that warm your heart?

And books don't just provide an escape, they also help us process.  Both in the writing and the reading.

So, this brings me to today's Weigh In. 

What are some Picture Books about "real life tragedies"?  Or books that give comfort when the world is a scary place?

I know some were written around Hurricane Katrina and others about WWII. Weigh in and let me know.  Afterall, its time to brainstorm for PiBoIdMo (Picture Book Idea Month) and I know this tragedy is front and center in my mind.

Writers Weigh In: It's November! What's Your Acronym?

November is upon us and many writers worldwide are preparing and waiting in anticipation. 

Why?

It has nothing to do with the US Presidential election.

It has nothing to do with Thanksgiving (although, its a darn good holiday!)

It has to do with a month of challenges. 

You see, November is a month for creating in the writing community.

If you are a novelist, consider joining NaNoWriMo (National Novel Writing Month).  This challenge sets out to  "provide the support, encouragement, and good old-fashioned kick in the pants you need to write the rough draft of your novel in November."

And if you are a picture book writer (as yours truly!) consider registering for PiBoIdMo (Picture Book Idea Month).  This challenge, created by the ever talented and truly amazing Tara Lazar, finds participants writing one picture book idea a day for 30 days.  Lazar states, " You might think of a clever title. Or a name for a character. Or just a silly thing like “purple polka-dot pony.” The object is to heighten your picture-book-idea-generating senses. Ideas may build upon other ideas and your list of potential stories will grow stronger as the days pass."  Those who sign-up for Picture Book Idea Month will be eligible for prizes—like feedback from one of four literary agents and critiques from picture book editors!

So, the year is not over yet! 

Writers, Weigh In!  What will you do to keep your writing muse busy?  Pick your acronym and let's get to creating!

Happy Writing everyone!

Writers Weigh In and the BOY + BOT Winner!

It might be rainy and dreary in NYC, but it always fun to brighten someone's day by announcing that they are a winner!  Now, don't get me wrong, I personally think that each and every one of my Followers is a winner...but in the BOT-astic Prize Give-Away there could only be one!

Thanks again to Ame Dyckman for the fabulously funny post and for the Prize Package.

The Winner chosen through random.org is....

Kathy Ellen Davis!!!!! 

Send me an email at marciecolleen@gmail.com with your contact info, Kathy Ellen. 
And congrats!

Now, for Wednesday Writers Weigh In.

The question to ponder today is

"How does where you live influence, if at all, your writing?"

Wednesday Writers Weigh In: 10 Banned Picture Books

Its Banned Books Week.  So what Picture Books have made the list?  You might be surprised.

The Lorax by Dr. Seuss, banned in some U.S. areas for, and  "being an allegorical political commentary".

In the Night Kitchen by Maurice Sendak, for nudity when Mickey loses his clothes in the middle of the night.

A Light In The Attic by Shel Silverstein, apparently for a single poem and accompanying illustration which suggests that children could avoid washing dishes by breaking them.

Sylvester And The Magic Pebble by William Steig, for a quite ridiculous reason, possibly the most ridiculous of all these: the depiction of the characters as animals, particularly the police as pigs, apparently upset people.

Where The Sidewalk Ends by Shel Silverstein has been banned because the poem "Ladies First" apparently supports cannibalism; I would have never even thought of this, considering that the cannabilistic king is portrayed as evil in that he will be eating the narrator.

The Five Chinese Brothers by Claire Hutchet Bishop was banned because it is deemed too violent.

The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein, which some apparently considered sexist.

And Tango Makes Three by Justin Richardson for portraying the true story of a gay penguin couple at the Central Park Zoo in NYC who raise an egg together.

The Sissy Duckling by Harvey Fierstein is a gay portrayal of "The Ugly Ducking" story.

The Three Little Pigs by James Marshall is not only challenged because of the violence, but also on the grounds that pigs as food might offend the Muslim community.

Writers Weigh In!  What are some other Banned and/or Challenged Picture Books out there?

Besides reading these wonderful stories, what else can we do to celebrate them this week?

Can I encourage you to change your profile picture for the rest of the week to one of these books with a link back to this page?

Wednesday Writers Weigh In: Why?

Has anyone ever asked you "why?"

Well, just last week, while discussing a manuscript with someone, I was asked.  "Why do you want to write Picture Books and be published?"

Of course, many of us could answer with "I have stories that need to be told", "I want to make kids happy", "I wanna make people laugh", etc  But have you ever TRULY thought about why being published means something to you?

Let's face it, even if we wanted it to, this is not about becoming rich and famous.  :)

It got me thinking.  What is it about life after first publication that excites me? 

Before I even knew what kind of books I wanted to write, I have had the fantasy of opening "the box" and seeing several copies of a book with my name on it.  I have also had a recurring fantasy about having a book launch and signing at Books of Wonder here in NYC.  But both of those are just moments and don't quite answer the question.

What is it about the life of the author that I want to lead? 

Here are just a few of my "author fantasies":

• School and Library visits
• As a former teacher I would LOVE to be able to go back into the classroom as the Guest Speaker and spend time with the kids.
• Special Events
• I am a people person, so manning a table full of my books to sell and be signed sounds divine!  Princeton Book Festival here I come...some day...
• Workshop Presenter at conferences.
• Writing Instructor
• Again, I miss my teaching days and would LOVE to be able to teach writing at Gotham Writers Workshop or the equivalent.  In fact, Gotham does not have a class that is solely Picture Book.  They lump all Children's Writing (PB, MG, YA) into one class.  But I would love to change that once I am published.

What is it about the "published author" life that excites you?  How do you see yourself after publication?

Wednesday Writers Weigh In: What will YOU Do Today?

It is often said "Write Everyday."  However, those of us pursuing this crazy career will often admit that living up to that mantra is sometimes difficult. 

I urge you to make a plan.  Do not get overwhelmed.  I agree that the WIPs folder can seem daunting, that plot hole you have been working on for months seems hopeless, the deadline for that writing contest is looming.  But the best way to tackle all of these projects is one day at a time. 

Remember...the climb might be great, but there is beauty at every step.

Sit down today.  Put fingers to keys.  Or pen to paper.  Do SOMETHING.  Even if it is even for 10 minutes.

And then at the end of the day PROUDLY remind yourself, "I AM  A WRITER!"

For example, today I will:

• Blog
• Finish critiquing manuscripts for my Crit Group tonight.
• Work on a curriculum guide I am writing

Writers Weigh In!  What will you do today for your writing career?

Wednesday Writers Weigh In: Onomatopoeia adds OOMPH!

Onomatopoeia.

I grew up watching reruns of the 1960s Adam West Batman television where comic book style onomatopoeias such as wham!, pow!, "biff!", crunch and "zounds" appear onscreen during fight scenes. So much fun!

Onomatopoeia pulls the reader in, makes the story come to life and is a blast to read aloud.  It is a perfect addition to many picture books.

But I neglect to add such fun whimsy into my own stories and often find myself adding it later on when reminded.

Writers Weigh In!  What is your favorite onomatopoeia word?  What onomatopoeia words have you used in your own writing? 

Wednesday Writers Weigh In: Random Acts of Publicity 2012

 

This week Darcy Pattison is hosting The Random Acts of Publicity 2012 focusing on Conversations about Books. The basic idea of the Random Acts of Publicity is to take the focus off yourself and your own work for a week and instead focus on a friend’s book or a favorite book. 

So today, I would love to blog about a book I have talked about before.

Marathon Mouse, by Amy Dixon will be released on October 16, 2012.  It is her debut picture book and is published by Sky Pony Press.

I am so excited about this book and would love to generate some real buzz in the community about its release.

Marathon Mouse is a delightful story of an ambitious little mouse named Preston who lives under the Verrazano Bridge in NYC.  Although most mice detest Marathon Day, Preston dreams of joining the race.  Despite his family's teasing and disbelief, Preston runs the marathon.  But will this little mouse avoid getting trampled on and make it to the finishline?  For all of those out there who long to be extraordinary and accomplish the un-thinkable, Preston is a wonderful role model.

You can learn more about Amy and Preston at  http://www.amydixonbooks.com/marathon-mouse/.  And please put this adorable, inspiring title on your list of purchases this fall! 

So, now its your turn, Writers!  Join The Random Acts of Publicity 2012 and weigh in!

 

Wednesday Writers Weigh In: Autumn Anticipation

Every year around this time I find myself truly anticipating autumn and all of the delights that come with it.  I want to sip a Pumpkin Latte.  I want to kick the colored leaves on a nippy afternoon stroll through the park.  I want to snuggle up in cozy socks and scarves and hats. 

I also anxiously await curling up with a good Picture Book on a blustery day.  Therefore...

 

Marcie's Top 5 Most Anticipated Picture Books

for Fall Season 2012!

(in no particular order)!

THE MONSTERS' MONSTER by Patrick McDonnell
Little Brown/September 4, 2012
Once upon a time, there were three little rascals who thought they were the BIGGEST, BADDEST monsters around. But when they decide to build a huge monster of their own, he isn't exactly what the creatures were expecting. He's happy. He giggles. He's just grateful to be alive. And he has a lesson for his grouchy creators that only takes two little words.

I just LOVE McDonnell's art and his very  sweet style.  I definitely cannot wait to own this story about a very BIG monster showing three very BAD little monsters the power of boundless gratitude.

THE THREE NINJA PIGS by Corey Rosen Schwartz illus. Dan Santat
Putnam/September 27, 2012

For me this is the MOST ANTICIPATED fractured fairy tale of the year...although Mo Willems might not agree.  When the big bad wolf threatens their village, three pigs sign up for different martial arts lessons to prepare to take him down. Pig One and Pig Two don't stick with their training, though, and are no match for their foe. But after practice and dedication, Pig Three becomes great at karate (including perfecting the perfect pork chop!) and saves the day.

GOLDILOCKS AND THE THREE DINOSAURS by Mo Willems
Balzer + Bray/September 4, 2012

What can I say? I am truly a sucker for Mo and I am really looking forward to his newest book.

"Once upon a time, there were three hungry Dinosaurs: Papa Dinosaur, Mama Dinosaur . . . and a Dinosaur who happened to be visiting from Norway.

One day—for no particular reason—they decided to tidy up their house, make the beds, and prepare pudding of varying temperatures. And then—for no particular reason—they decided to go . . . someplace else. They were definitely not setting a trap for some succulent, unsupervised little girl.

Definitely not!"

 MARATHON MOUSE by Amy Dixon illus. by Sam Denlinger 
Sky Pony Press/October 16, 2012

The mice of New York City dread the day of the New York City Marathon more than any other—the crowds, the large shoes, the noise. All of them, that is, except for Preston. He and his family live underneath the starting line on the Verrazano Bridge and every year Preston has dreamed of joining all the other runners in the marathon. This year, Preston is determined to make his dream come true, even though his family tells him that mice are not fit to run marathons. He trains hard leading up to the big day and when the race starts, he successfully dodges sneakers and crosses the finish line, showing his family that mice can do much more than just scurry.

With my own attempt at the NYC Marathon coming up on November 4, 2012, I am hoping to join Preston at that finish line!

MY FIRST GHOST by Maggie Miller & Michael Leviton illus. by Stephanie Buscema
Hyperion/August 7, 2012

Although this book is already out, I am including it here...as I have not had a chance to check it out.

I have taken some classes at NYC's Gotham Writer's Workshop with Michael Leviton.  So I have been eagerly awaiting his debut picture book.

The book comes with a free ghost! But, like any pet, ghosts need special care and attention. A playful riff on "My First Pet" books, My First Ghost teaches kids everything they need to know about taking care of their very own ghost,  offer humorous tips on feeding, grooming, and ghostly games which are complemented by charming illustrations with a retro twist.

Well, there you have it!  I would love to hear what books you eagerly await.  Writers Weigh In!

Wednesday Writers Weigh In: What Inspires You?

I was recently taking inventory of my current WIPs and I had to laugh to be reminded of where the inspiration for each story came from.

1)  a cheesy pick-up line a friend posted on Facebook

2)  a recent NPR story about Mars

3)  my current obsession with roasted Brussels Sprouts

4)  a rainy trip to the airport which caused me to reluctantly stuff something into my suitcase

All of these strange and unusual moments inspired me to start writing a PICTURE BOOK!  True story!

For those who read my stories on WriteOnCon 2012, can you guess what inspired each one?

What has inspired your recent WIPs?

Writers Weigh In!

Wednesday Writers Weigh In: What is Your Stroke?

Emma: So, what's your stroke?
Ian: Sorry, my what?
Emma: Waiter stroke actress? Waiter stroke model? Waiter stroke writer?
Ian: Well, I'm a comedian.
Emma: Oh, we could use a comedian. We all like to laugh, I know I used to.

In the novel ONE DAY by David Nicholls, the question is posed "what is your stroke?"  Basically, what is it that you do to pay the rent?  And what are you pursuing or what is your dream?

I live in NYC and therefore everyone I know has "a stroke".  Caterer stroke actress.  Bartender stroke model.  Office Manager stroke screenwriter.

I, myself, am a Nanny stroke Children's Writer.

The thing about writing is that even once a writer finds themselves published they still have to find other ways to pay the bills.  A Picture Book usually only gives a $5000 advance.  Subtract the agent fees and other promotional fees (curriculum guides, freebies, etc) and you are looking at a $2000 take home.  But we don't do this for the money, do we?  I know I don't!

So, Writers Weigh In...what is your stroke?  I am curious...as I know others probably are.  :)

Wednesday Writers Weigh In: Its Almost Back to School Time!

Its almost back to school time!  Can you believe that we are already in the last few weeks of summer?  Its been a hot one for many of us around the globe.  I know that I am eagerly anticipating apple picking, pie baking, colored leaves and pumpkin lattes.

I am also excited about a new endeavor that I am developing this fall and looking to launch in early 2013.  That's right folks, I am going to start a business of creating educational curriculum and lesson plans for authors and teachers!  Its time I tapped back into my bachelor's degree in education, my masters degree in educational theater and my extensive resume of curriculum building.

Anyway, as I move forward with this project I could really use your help.

Authors, what do you look for in curriculum tie-ins and activities for classroom/library visits?  Also, what is usually your budget for such materials?

Thanks, writers!  I really appreciate your answers in advance!

Weigh In!

Wednesday Writers Weigh In: Inspiration of Olympic sized Proportions!

Did you know that the Greeks included Poetry Competitions in the Olympics? 

To celebrate, NPR is hosting the Poetry Games.  They have invited poets from all over the globe to participate by submitting poems inspired by althetes and athletics.

Have the Olympics inspired you to write a story? 

Summertime can be very busy...and very inspirational!

I was inspired to write a new story about one boy's desire to be tall enough to ride the Bumper Cars while spending time on the Boardwalk in Point Pleasant, NJ with some kids last weekend. 

What other summer time adventures or activities this summer have inspired your writing?

Writers...Weigh In!

Writers Weigh In: Renn's Pitch Contest

Alright, Writers!  Today is still Renn Week at the Write Routine, as well as Wednesday Weight In.  We are going to change it up with a little contest. 

From what I can see online, Renn is doing really well and is enduring his stay in the hospital with the true spirit of a Jedi.  (If you do not know Renn's story, please look to Monday's post).  However, he's still not home yet, so let's continue to show the love.

Today I would like you all to Weigh In with a very special pitch contest!  Let's hone our skills while also making a little guy smile.

Rules:
Pitch a story about a main character who undergoes a struggle (like Renn) and has to go away for a while to deal with it (in Renn's case, to the hospital).   The story will be about how they deal with This struggel and their time away and how they overcome in the end.   The  main character should have many of Renn's characteristics (brave, smiley, etc).  You can read his story again to get yourself acclimated with him.

Pitch your story idea in the comments section. 

When he is able, Renn will choose the story he likes best and the winner will receive a $10 Amazon Gift Certificate!

Sound good?  Ready to play Renn's Pitch Contest?  Writers Weigh In!

Pitching closes at midnight PST on Friday, July 27th, 2012!

Wednesday Writers Weigh In: Keeping Routine in Summertime

Summer is usually a time for adventure and travel.  And it is also a time of disrupted daily routine.Whether your kids are home from school or you are away from home staying in a hotel or your social bbq-ing is leading to later nights than usual, it can be hard to accomplish what you need to do on any given day.

I really feel the disruption when it comes to my marathon training.  I train with my team on Saturday mornings, however for the next few weekends I am traveling.  Therefore, I have had to map out runs in other cities, sometimes for 8-10 miles, or seek out the nearest treadmill.  It definitely causes extra work and research on my end.

Luckily, I don't write on the weekends, so that routine has remained relatively unharmed...although busy weekend travel leads to exhausted Mondays when I really struggle to be creative.  So I have limited what I set out to accomplish on Mondays, usually focusing on blogging and researching only.  I then spend the rest of the week focused on writing and revisions.

What about you?  How do you keep your writing routine during the summer?  What changes and/or accommodations do you make in order to keep momentum?

Writers, Weigh In!

Wednesday Writers Weigh In: Help me trust my gut!

Today I need to hear stories about authors who went with their gut, despite what critics said and they succeeded!  I know those stories are out there.  Jodi Moore, author of the highly-acclaimed WHEN A DRAGON MOVES IN (Flashlight Press) shared one such story on my blog a few months ago.

Jodi said that when she took DRAGON to her first NJ SCBWI conference she signed up for two Peer Crit Groups which were each moderated by an editor.  In one group they said it was a great story but she needed to make sure the reader understood that the dragon was real. The other group said she needed to make sure the readers understood that the dragon was imaginary.  And then the editor at Flashlight Press asked her, "Is the dragon real or imaginary?"  Jodi stuck to her original thought and said, "Its for the reader to decide!" And that's just what makes this story so wonderful!

In fact, the marketing for the book really plays up the idea of the reader deciding...proving that Jodi was right all along!

If you build a perfect sandcastle, a dragon will move in.
And that's exactly what happens to one very lucky boy at the beach. Dad is busy sunbathing and Mom is busy with her book, so the boy and dragon roam the beach together, flying a kite, braving the waves, and roasting marshmallows.

But no one believes him when he shares the news of his magnificent dragon: Mom only hears the roar of the ocean, Dad thinks the dragon feather is a seagull feather, and know-it-all sis claims there's no such thing as a dragon.

That's when the sandwiches mysteriously disappear, claw prints are found in the brownies, and dragon-giggles erupt from the strangest of places. Heh-heh-heh.
Is there truly a mischievous dragon running around on the beach or is someone's imagination running wild? Decide for yourself When a Dragon Moves In.

Congrats, Jodi for listening to your gut and thank you for sharing your story!  It is stories like this that help me when I feel confused about critiques I might receive.

Anyone have another story?  I could use the inspiration...

Writers weigh in!