Many thanks to Bill Herrera

Bill Herrera (Pedro Pane) and I just completed a great morning of back-to-back talks to the American History classes at Marquette Senior High School on the topic of “When Cuba Came to Marquette.” Each of the four groups of students brought their own energy — and great questions for Bill like: How long did it take to… Read more »

What happened to the month of April?

Can’t believe it was early March the last time I posted.  Where have I been? What have I been doing to further my writing? These are questions I’ve asked myself, and happily, I have answers:1. Revising a new picture book manuscript and cover letter.2. Researching potential publishing houses and editors for it.3. Sending it out.4. Patiently waiting for responses.5. Taking an online… Read more »

Circular Reasoning

I’ve realized the theme for my new picture book manuscript, EGGSTRA CRAZY DAY, could be the theme for most of the major events of my life: ….Sometimes the unexpected turns out way better than ever expected…So, being open to the unexpected is a very good thing.

Lisa Wheeler and Spinster Goose and Publishers Weekly

Just wanted to cybercongratulate Lisa Wheeler http://www.lisawheelerbooks.com/LW/home.htmlon her mention in the “about the artist” column of PW Children’s Books Spring 2011.  Lisa and illustrator, Sophie Blackall, are highlighted for their book, Spinster Goose: Nursery Rhymes for Naughty Children.  Lisa has been a sounding board for me and continues to deliver fun and engaging books. Check her out!

Boxing For Cuba by Guillermo Vincente Vidal

I am so impressed with this book.  Mr. Vidal, who was part of Operation Pedro Pan, is a breathtakingly honest writer and I am in awe of his bravery.  I highly recommend this memoir which is described on the book jacket as “an immigrant’s story of despair, endurance, and redemption.” Vidal has shared a haunting story told in a lyrical voice.  

Rejections. Bleck.

You’d be proud of me.  I didn’t stomp on my husband’s toes when he read my most recent rejection letter and said, “Your rejections are getting better and better.”  It is nice when an editor, especially one at the top of her game, takes the time to point out the positives in a manuscript. And the… Read more »

Patience Revisited

“If the person you are talking to isn’t listening, be patient.  Maybe he has a small piece of fluff in his ear.”                                                        –Winnie-the-Pooh

Dutton and Dial Imprints Info

For my pre-agented writer friends:Because so few larger publishing houses are open to unagented submissions, I take note of changes of personnel and policies.  Two of Penguin Young Readers “open” imprints, Dutton and Dial, announced in the January 27th PW Children’s Bookshelf the following, “Julie Strauss-Gabel has been named v-p and publisher of Dutton Children’s Books, effective immediately. She was… Read more »

School Visits Demystified

If you are planning school visits, check out this great websitehttp://schoolvisitexperts.com/ for information on how to organize your visit and optimize communication with school personnel. They offer general how-to and how-not-to tips from pros, too.