Howdy folks, I bet everyone is busy and barely has time to breathe. Still, children's books are our passion. That's so important! Take time to create good books in the midst of the buzz. We don't have a meeting until January. We meet on Jan. 25 2012 at the College Station Barnes and Noble at 9:30 for critique (bring copies) and 10 AM for the Schmooze. Molly Blaisdell will be speaking: Do You Need an Agent? How Do You Snag One?
Here is an upcoming regional event:
SCBWI Events in Texas and Beyond, Austin, http://www.austinscbwi.com/ Regional Conference: Something for Everyone
February 17-19, 2012 St. Edward‘s University
Base Rate is $150 Members/ $165 Non-members
Best
PW's best of 2011 is out. This seems like a hot list of books to me. You might find something to check out too.
Hot
Yes we want to write books to shoot out there. Here is an article on YA and Middle Grade trends in the LA Times that you may enjoy.
Here's the link to the New York Times Best Selling Chapter Books list, just in case you need have a little reading time right now.
Here is the link to an essay contest at BookWish.org to win a free YA critique from a publishing expert. This might also open your eyes to the world in a much wider way.
Here is a link to a contest at Query Tracker for children's authors looking for an agent.
Promote!
Do you have a book out. Here is a list of ten non-traditional ways to promote your book.
The Revolution
Here is a thoughtful post from Kathlenn Duey at WriteWriteWriter about the revolution going on in publishing.
Another thoughtful post about the Revolution from Anne R. Allen's Blog and going with traditional publishing.
The views expressed here are my own, and not necessarily those of the SCBWI.
Wednesday, December 28, 2011
Sunday, November 20, 2011
Today's Scratch: Craft, Query, Fun
Howdy, folks! Thought I'd toss a little scratch before Thanksgiving.
The conference was most excellent. Yay to our RA Liz Mertz and her assistant RA Jacqueline Gramann. What a wonderful event! I hope things are buzzing for you from all that inspiration.
We have one more event for the year-end. Our Holiday Gathering is set for Nov. 30 at 5:30 p.m. in The Village Cafe, 210 W. 26th Street, Bryan, TX. Come on for good conversation.
CRAFT
Need some plot support here are 27 plot points to get you on the road to creating a solid novel. A free master class on plotting from plot whisperer Martha Anderson.. Totally check this out. It is time well spent.
QUERY
Here is some very straight forward querying advice if you need a little more to get that query sparkling.
FOR FUN
I just watched the "THE BOOK JOB", a Simpson episode, guest starring Neil Gaiman (he totally has a Newbery Medal), where Homer and the gang form a team to create a YA phenom book series. It's quite hysterical. Here is an article where Neil discusses his experience. Look around at streaming sites and catch this Simpsons episode. You will laugh and nod. Good stuff.
The views expressed here are my own, and not necessarily those of the SCBWI.
The conference was most excellent. Yay to our RA Liz Mertz and her assistant RA Jacqueline Gramann. What a wonderful event! I hope things are buzzing for you from all that inspiration.
We have one more event for the year-end. Our Holiday Gathering is set for Nov. 30 at 5:30 p.m. in The Village Cafe, 210 W. 26th Street, Bryan, TX. Come on for good conversation.
CRAFT
Need some plot support here are 27 plot points to get you on the road to creating a solid novel. A free master class on plotting from plot whisperer Martha Anderson.. Totally check this out. It is time well spent.
QUERY
Here is some very straight forward querying advice if you need a little more to get that query sparkling.
Check out the new agent over at DMLA. Here is an interview article of Katie Shea at Writer Unboxed.
FOR FUN
I just watched the "THE BOOK JOB", a Simpson episode, guest starring Neil Gaiman (he totally has a Newbery Medal), where Homer and the gang form a team to create a YA phenom book series. It's quite hysterical. Here is an article where Neil discusses his experience. Look around at streaming sites and catch this Simpsons episode. You will laugh and nod. Good stuff.
The views expressed here are my own, and not necessarily those of the SCBWI.
Saturday, November 5, 2011
Current Scratch: Nanowrimo, Connect, Revolution
Howdy, folks! I know this weather is begging you to get outside, but take time to work on your projects. Our conference is also coming up folks. Here is the link. Sign up! It's going to be fab. Here's the scoop:
Connections & Craft Conference! Speaker are fab -- Author Kathi Appelt, Author/Illustrator Brian Floca, author Doris Fisher, author Molly Blasidell, editor Claudia Gabel of Katherine Tegen Books and agent Elena Mechlin of Pippin Properties.
November 12, 2011 A&M United Methodist Church
417 University Drive
College Station, TX 77840
SCBWI Members! Alert! Registration for the Winter 2012 Conference is Open!
More local events:
Connections & Craft Conference! Speaker are fab -- Author Kathi Appelt, Author/Illustrator Brian Floca, author Doris Fisher, author Molly Blasidell, editor Claudia Gabel of Katherine Tegen Books and agent Elena Mechlin of Pippin Properties.
November 12, 2011 A&M United Methodist Church
417 University Drive
College Station, TX 77840
SCBWI Members! Alert! Registration for the Winter 2012 Conference is Open!
More local events:
November 18th: CLBC member Janet Fox will be at the CS Barnes & Noble to discuss her books and writing from 4 to 6 PM.
November 30th: SCBWI BV Holiday Gathering at The Village Cafe at 5:30 PM.
January 26th in 2012: the next CLBC (ChildLitbookclub) meeting. Book: Bridge Over Terabithia. The discussion leader will be Alicia Clay O'Neill. Check their calendar for upcoming books to be read. Join the book club yahoo group to get updates: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ChildLitbookclub/ .
NANOWRIMO
It's the time of the year for NANOWRIMO, the National Novel Writing Month project. Writers all over the world join together and write 50,000 word novels. You've missed the kick off but you could still jump in. Check it out it.
CONNECT
Writers need to connect. Here are some online spots to meet up with writers and find critique partners..
SCBWI Forums
SCBWI LinkedIn
Verla Kay's Blue Board
SheWrites
AbsoluteWrite
Writer's Guide to Twitter
Revolution
The Publising App Expo site will help you become more aware of this growing segment of the publishing industry.
uTales is a site for authors and illustrators to come together and create and publish e-picture books.
Learn about popular app trends at AppData.
Also interested in what's happening with ebooks? Try EBOOKNEWSER, an online magazine from Mediabistro all about ebooks.
The views expressed here are my own, and not necessarily those of the SCBWI.
January 25th: next Schmooze.
NANOWRIMO
It's the time of the year for NANOWRIMO, the National Novel Writing Month project. Writers all over the world join together and write 50,000 word novels. You've missed the kick off but you could still jump in. Check it out it.
CONNECT
Writers need to connect. Here are some online spots to meet up with writers and find critique partners..
SCBWI Forums
SCBWI LinkedIn
Verla Kay's Blue Board
SheWrites
AbsoluteWrite
Writer's Guide to Twitter
Revolution
The Publising App Expo site will help you become more aware of this growing segment of the publishing industry.
uTales is a site for authors and illustrators to come together and create and publish e-picture books.
Learn about popular app trends at AppData.
Also interested in what's happening with ebooks? Try EBOOKNEWSER, an online magazine from Mediabistro all about ebooks.
The views expressed here are my own, and not necessarily those of the SCBWI.
Monday, October 17, 2011
Weekly Scratch: Awards, Opportunities, Self-publishing, Critique
Howdy, folks! I hope that you are working on your stories and getting ready to send out.
On to our local news. We have a schmooze coming up -- October 26, 2011, 9:30 AM Critique (bring copies) and 10 AM (meeting) at the College Station Barnes and Noble. Schmooze topic: Critique Group Advantages--Panel. How are our critique groups going? We will share ideas and handouts.
Our conference is also coming up folks. Here is the link. Sign up! It's going to be fab. Here's the scoop:
Connections & Craft Conference!
November 12, 2011 A&M United Methodist Church
417 University Drive
College Station, TX 77840
AWARDS
From PW, The finalists for the 2011 National Book Award in Young People's Literature were announced on Wednesday. The nominees are: Franny Billingsley, Chime, edited by Kathy Dawson (Dial), Debby Dahl Edwardson, My Name Is Not Easy, edited by Melanie Kroupa (Marshall Cavendish); Thanhha Lai, Inside Out and Back Again, edited by Tara Weikum (Harper); Albert Marrin, Flesh & Blood So Cheap: The Triangle Fire and Its Legacy, edited by Michelle Frey (Knopf); Lauren Myracle, Shine, edited by Susan Van Metre (Abrams/Amulet); and Gary D. Schmidt, Okay for Now, edited by Virginia Buckley (Clarion).
OPPORTUNITIES
To celebrate the release of the trailer for her Writing Young Adult Fiction For Dummies book, Deborah Halverson is giving away a critique of the first 20 pages of a fiction manuscript of any genre. No picture books. Click the link to the giveaway details.
Here is an opportunity for science fiction writers at Carina Press. Dust off those 18000 to 35000 holiday science fiction novellas and give them a polish. Perhaps the is the break you need.
A local storyteller is going to be in town. This may be of some interest to you. Here are the particulars:
Who: FREE for all! Lyn Ford will be performing and also demonstrating how to use storytelling in K-8 classrooms. Teller of "Home-Fried" Tales
Where: CSISD Transportation Center (Rock Prairie Rd)
Date: Wed, Nov. 9, 2011
Time: 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Contact: Nancy Self, n-self@tamu.edu.
SELF-PUBLISHING
Is self-publishing a new door into traditional publishing market? Here is an interesting article at Alan Rinzler's site with opinions from top editors.
Self-published author is so yesterday; it's all about indie authors now. Here's a roundup of tips and tricks that will rock your indie world from Shelli Johannes' MARKET MY WORDS.
CRITIQUE
Here is an awesome discussion from YA Oasis. A group of authors pick apart a query letter to make it all sparkly and shiny. Check it out.
Here is a structure plan to online critique groups at Roni Loren's WRITING BLOG that you may find eye opening.
Here is an article from a blogger called The Art of Critiquing that you find helps you keep it real.
The views expressed here are my own, and not necessarily those of the SCBWI.
On to our local news. We have a schmooze coming up -- October 26, 2011, 9:30 AM Critique (bring copies) and 10 AM (meeting) at the College Station Barnes and Noble. Schmooze topic: Critique Group Advantages--Panel. How are our critique groups going? We will share ideas and handouts.
Our conference is also coming up folks. Here is the link. Sign up! It's going to be fab. Here's the scoop:
Connections & Craft Conference!
November 12, 2011 A&M United Methodist Church
417 University Drive
College Station, TX 77840
AWARDS
From PW, The finalists for the 2011 National Book Award in Young People's Literature were announced on Wednesday. The nominees are: Franny Billingsley, Chime, edited by Kathy Dawson (Dial), Debby Dahl Edwardson, My Name Is Not Easy, edited by Melanie Kroupa (Marshall Cavendish); Thanhha Lai, Inside Out and Back Again, edited by Tara Weikum (Harper); Albert Marrin, Flesh & Blood So Cheap: The Triangle Fire and Its Legacy, edited by Michelle Frey (Knopf); Lauren Myracle, Shine, edited by Susan Van Metre (Abrams/Amulet); and Gary D. Schmidt, Okay for Now, edited by Virginia Buckley (Clarion).
OPPORTUNITIES
To celebrate the release of the trailer for her Writing Young Adult Fiction For Dummies book, Deborah Halverson is giving away a critique of the first 20 pages of a fiction manuscript of any genre. No picture books. Click the link to the giveaway details.
Here is an opportunity for science fiction writers at Carina Press. Dust off those 18000 to 35000 holiday science fiction novellas and give them a polish. Perhaps the is the break you need.
A local storyteller is going to be in town. This may be of some interest to you. Here are the particulars:
Who: FREE for all! Lyn Ford will be performing and also demonstrating how to use storytelling in K-8 classrooms. Teller of "Home-Fried" Tales
Where: CSISD Transportation Center (Rock Prairie Rd)
Date: Wed, Nov. 9, 2011
Time: 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Contact: Nancy Self, n-self@tamu.edu.
SELF-PUBLISHING
Is self-publishing a new door into traditional publishing market? Here is an interesting article at Alan Rinzler's site with opinions from top editors.
Self-published author is so yesterday; it's all about indie authors now. Here's a roundup of tips and tricks that will rock your indie world from Shelli Johannes' MARKET MY WORDS.
CRITIQUE
Here is an awesome discussion from YA Oasis. A group of authors pick apart a query letter to make it all sparkly and shiny. Check it out.
Here is a structure plan to online critique groups at Roni Loren's WRITING BLOG that you may find eye opening.
Here is an article from a blogger called The Art of Critiquing that you find helps you keep it real.
The views expressed here are my own, and not necessarily those of the SCBWI.
Wednesday, October 5, 2011
Weekly Scratch: Opportunities, Blogging, Tracking
Howdy, folks! Hope your work is humming.
Don't forget to sign up for the SCBWI-BV Conference. We have an editor, an agent, and world class authors on the slate. Here is the link. Sign up! It's going to be fab.
Here's the scoop: 2011 Connections & Craft, November 12, 2011 A&M United Methodist Church
417 University Drive, College Station, TX 77840. Don't miss it.
Check out our own Sherry Garland's blog: In to the Woods We Go. Some great stuff there about query letters.
OPPORTUNITIES
Join R.L. Stine for Dinner--FREE at Tre Trattoria on Thursday, October 6!
Preceeded by: WORKSHOP -Overcoming Writer's Block: An Interactive Writing Workshop for Adults with R.L. Stine
October 6, 2011, 5:00 - 6:15pm
BLOGGING
Some link to useful tools to help you blog:
www.addtoany.com
www.sharethis.com
www.addthis.com
http://FeedBurner.com
http://developers.facebook.com/docs/reference/plugins/like/
http://technorati.com
TRACKING
Interested in some free submission tracking software? Check out SONAR.
Want a submisson tracking app for you iPad or iPhone? Try Story Tracker.
A basic tracking spread sheet. Downloadable.
The views expressed here are my own, and not necessarily those of the SCBWI.
Don't forget to sign up for the SCBWI-BV Conference. We have an editor, an agent, and world class authors on the slate. Here is the link. Sign up! It's going to be fab.
Here's the scoop: 2011 Connections & Craft, November 12, 2011 A&M United Methodist Church
417 University Drive, College Station, TX 77840. Don't miss it.
Check out our own Sherry Garland's blog: In to the Woods We Go. Some great stuff there about query letters.
OPPORTUNITIES
Join R.L. Stine for Dinner--FREE at Tre Trattoria on Thursday, October 6!
Preceeded by: WORKSHOP -Overcoming Writer's Block: An Interactive Writing Workshop for Adults with R.L. Stine
October 6, 2011, 5:00 - 6:15pm
Where: The Magik Theatre++
Cost: $60 seatting limited to 50 participants)
Writer Who Care: The 50/50 Project
How does it work? Working with CARE INTERNATIONAL, Writers who CARE: the 50/50 PROJECT will allow anyone who makes a donation of $50.00 to submit 50 pages double-spaced of a work-in-progress for a 1-2 page critique by one of the participating authors. All donators wishing a critique must have access to e-mail and the Internet for correspondence with a published author in order to qualify. Authors and donators will be matched on a first come, first serve basis as long as slots are open. The project is also open to those wishing simply to make a donation to this worthy cause.
Local Conference --The Dean of Faculties and Associate Provost is proud to announce and invite you to attend the 2011 CALLALOO CONFERENCE, which will take place at Texas A&M University (College Station, October 12-14) and The Menil Collection (Houston, TX), October 15, 2011. This event is free and open to the general public. If you attend this international conference you will be delighted and inspired by some of the best artists and intellectuals currently living in the United States. For additional information about Callaloo and the 2011 CALLALOO CONFERENCE, visit: http://callaloo.tamu.edu
Registration is open now for summer classes and workshops at Gemini Ink in San Antonio.
The Founder's Workshops at the the Highlights Foundation were not "highlighted" at our Schmooze.
BLOGGING
Some link to useful tools to help you blog:
www.addtoany.com
www.sharethis.com
www.addthis.com
http://FeedBurner.com
http://developers.facebook.com/docs/reference/plugins/like/
http://technorati.com
TRACKING
Interested in some free submission tracking software? Check out SONAR.
Want a submisson tracking app for you iPad or iPhone? Try Story Tracker.
A basic tracking spread sheet. Downloadable.
The views expressed here are my own, and not necessarily those of the SCBWI.
Saturday, September 24, 2011
Weekly Scratch: Screenwriter Help, Opportunities, Thoughts
Howdy, folks! We have a schmooze coming up -- October[Correction: September] 28 2011, 9:30 AM Critique (bring copies) and 10 AM (meeting) at the College Station Barnes and Noble. Bring in your brilliant ways of how to keep track of your manuscript submissions. It's a roundtable discussion.
Our conference is also coming up folks. Here is the link. Sign up! It's going to be fab. Here's the scoop:
Connections & Craft
November 12, 2011 A&M United Methodist Church
417 University Drive
College Station, TX 77840
Doris Fisher is speaking at our conference. Here is a link to her fab website. Here is a link to an interview of Doris at Melissa Buron's blog .
Local Brazos's Writers has an upcoming event that you may wish to check out:
BRAZOS WRITERS invites you to the Texas
Screenwriters Help
We can all learn a thing or two from silver screen folks. Here are some sites to explore.
Here is screenwriter Doug Eboch's blog. His blog Let's Schmooze might help you.
Try: MIchael Hauge's site-- Story Mastery. Chris Vogler's site -- Storytech Literary Consutling. Blake Snyder's site -- Save the Cat. Here's another great screenwriting blog: Go Into the Story.
Opportunities
App publisher Meegenius! is holding a picture book contest. The grand prize is a publishing contract and $1500. You might want to check this out.
There is an open call from author Mitali Perkins. In her own words: I'm priviledged to be editing an anthology published by Candlewick Press tentatively called OPEN MIC, a compilation of funny short pieces written by some of today's best YA authors, people who grew up along the margins of race and culture in North America. One of my dreams has been to introduce one or two fresh, relatively unknown voices in this anthology, so I'm excited to announce that I'm calling for submissions. Check out the link here.
Thoughts
Is blogging worth it? Here is a link to a provocative article that might get you thinking.
Think about this. Help out a good cause. Banned Book Week Auction might be something you want to check out.
One author's view on the role of her agent. Something to think about.
The views expressed here are my own, and not necessarily those of the SCBWI.
Our conference is also coming up folks. Here is the link. Sign up! It's going to be fab. Here's the scoop:
Connections & Craft
November 12, 2011 A&M United Methodist Church
417 University Drive
College Station, TX 77840
Doris Fisher is speaking at our conference. Here is a link to her fab website. Here is a link to an interview of Doris at Melissa Buron's blog .
Local Brazos's Writers has an upcoming event that you may wish to check out:
Texas Writers will be signing books at 202 Bryan, Avenue in the Artist’s Show Case, next door to the Our hours will be Friday: 8 pm to 10 pm and Saturday: 10 am to 10 pm. Texas Brazos Writers’ web site, www.brazoswriters.org.
Old Bryan Market Place.
Old Bryan Market Place.
Screenwriters Help
We can all learn a thing or two from silver screen folks. Here are some sites to explore.
Here is screenwriter Doug Eboch's blog. His blog Let's Schmooze might help you.
Try: MIchael Hauge's site-- Story Mastery. Chris Vogler's site -- Storytech Literary Consutling. Blake Snyder's site -- Save the Cat. Here's another great screenwriting blog: Go Into the Story.
Opportunities
App publisher Meegenius! is holding a picture book contest. The grand prize is a publishing contract and $1500. You might want to check this out.
There is an open call from author Mitali Perkins. In her own words: I'm priviledged to be editing an anthology published by Candlewick Press tentatively called OPEN MIC, a compilation of funny short pieces written by some of today's best YA authors, people who grew up along the margins of race and culture in North America. One of my dreams has been to introduce one or two fresh, relatively unknown voices in this anthology, so I'm excited to announce that I'm calling for submissions. Check out the link here.
Thoughts
Is blogging worth it? Here is a link to a provocative article that might get you thinking.
Think about this. Help out a good cause. Banned Book Week Auction might be something you want to check out.
One author's view on the role of her agent. Something to think about.
The views expressed here are my own, and not necessarily those of the SCBWI.
Wednesday, September 14, 2011
Weekly Scratch: Books! Inspiration! Provocation! Opportunities!
Howdy, folks. Phew, this is a busy time of year for me. School starts. Football. The fall routine is almost set up so the weekly blog is getting back on track. We have a schmooze coming up -- 9:30 AM Critique (bring copies) and 10 AM (meeting) at the College Station Barnes and Noble. Bring in your brilliant ways of how to keep track of your manuscript submissions. It's a roundtable discussion.
Our conference is also coming up folks. Here is the link. Sign up! It's going to be fab. Here's the scoop:
Connections & Craft
November 12, 2011 A&M United Methodist Church
417 University Drive
College Station, TX 77840
As another tidbit. Oh, my Brian Floca is going to be speaking at our conference! Here is a nice interview with Brian that you may wish to check out.
Books!
Here's what is hot at the Naperville Public Library in Illinois. From PW.
And here is a link to this week's NY Times bestsellers.
Here are the Amazon bestsellers.
Here are the current INDIEBOUND bestsellers.
Inspiration!
Here is a post from literary agent Sarah Davies -- The Spirit of Normandy. This is one encouraging post.
Here's a post from Joe Konrath about How to Succeed.
Provocation!
The uphill battle for authors with original work. Definitely a provocative post.
Need some instant creativity juice, here's some weird and wonderful advice.
Opportunities!
Just a reminder. Here is a new magazine for emerging YA authors. It's called Sucker Literary Magazine. It's featured in PW. It's a place for short fiction. You may wish to check it out.
You need to be working on your story now if you plan to enter the 2012 Highlights For Children contest. Here is the contest information link.
If you want to go to the Children's Writing Workshop at Chautauqua, you get an edge if your scholarship application is early.
Hunger Mountain is out there. This is a reminder too.
See you next time for more scratch!
Any views expressed here are my own and not necessarily those of the SCBWI.
8:00 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.
Our conference is also coming up folks. Here is the link. Sign up! It's going to be fab. Here's the scoop:
Connections & Craft
November 12, 2011 A&M United Methodist Church
417 University Drive
College Station, TX 77840
As another tidbit. Oh, my Brian Floca is going to be speaking at our conference! Here is a nice interview with Brian that you may wish to check out.
Books!
Here's what is hot at the Naperville Public Library in Illinois. From PW.
And here is a link to this week's NY Times bestsellers.
Here are the Amazon bestsellers.
Here are the current INDIEBOUND bestsellers.
Inspiration!
Here is a post from literary agent Sarah Davies -- The Spirit of Normandy. This is one encouraging post.
Here's a post from Joe Konrath about How to Succeed.
Provocation!
The uphill battle for authors with original work. Definitely a provocative post.
Need some instant creativity juice, here's some weird and wonderful advice.
Opportunities!
Just a reminder. Here is a new magazine for emerging YA authors. It's called Sucker Literary Magazine. It's featured in PW. It's a place for short fiction. You may wish to check it out.
You need to be working on your story now if you plan to enter the 2012 Highlights For Children contest. Here is the contest information link.
If you want to go to the Children's Writing Workshop at Chautauqua, you get an edge if your scholarship application is early.
Hunger Mountain is out there. This is a reminder too.
See you next time for more scratch!
Any views expressed here are my own and not necessarily those of the SCBWI.
8:00 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.
Sunday, September 4, 2011
Weekly Scratch: Manuscript Formatting, eBook Formatting, Document Maps, Love Librarians
Howdy, folks! At the last schmooze I promised to send out some of my favorite formatting links. Don't forget to sign up for our fab conference on November 12, 2011. Brazos Writers has a workshop for the mystery inclined on September 10, 2011.
This week we eschew all else for formatting information.
Submission Formatting
So here is Nathan Bransford's thoughts on formatting manuscripts. He's a bright guy and 'spains good. Check out his post.
Gotta love the Purple Crayon. Here is Harold Underdown's take on formatting.
Email Formatting
Formatting for an email submission. There is a nice discussion in this article about email submission. This is stuff to help you make it pretty and not garbled when you send it in. Courtesy of Writing World.
Remove the formatting from a Word Document. Here's quickie advice.
Here is another little article about email formatting that may be of some use to you.
eBook Formatting
Here is an article I like about Kindle formatting. I found some understandable advice here on how to do turn a Word document into one that can be easily read on the Kindle.
Amazon offers a page about Kindle formatting too. You might find it useful.
Here is a guru article from Aaron Shepherd. You will certainly know a thing or two if you wade through this article on Kindle Formatting.
Document Maps
I'm a fan of the document map feature of Word for formatting my novels.
Here are some articles to help you on your way if you want to get a tech on.
This article is pretty simple and straight-forward about how to make a simple document map. You might like it.
Here is another nifty article about creating a document map for a novel.
Well, I'm closing out this week with a "gotta love librarians" moment. Check out this article.
Check y'all next week with more chicken scratch.
This week we eschew all else for formatting information.
Submission Formatting
So here is Nathan Bransford's thoughts on formatting manuscripts. He's a bright guy and 'spains good. Check out his post.
Gotta love the Purple Crayon. Here is Harold Underdown's take on formatting.
Email Formatting
Formatting for an email submission. There is a nice discussion in this article about email submission. This is stuff to help you make it pretty and not garbled when you send it in. Courtesy of Writing World.
Remove the formatting from a Word Document. Here's quickie advice.
Here is another little article about email formatting that may be of some use to you.
eBook Formatting
Here is an article I like about Kindle formatting. I found some understandable advice here on how to do turn a Word document into one that can be easily read on the Kindle.
Amazon offers a page about Kindle formatting too. You might find it useful.
Here is a guru article from Aaron Shepherd. You will certainly know a thing or two if you wade through this article on Kindle Formatting.
Document Maps
I'm a fan of the document map feature of Word for formatting my novels.
Here are some articles to help you on your way if you want to get a tech on.
This article is pretty simple and straight-forward about how to make a simple document map. You might like it.
Here is another nifty article about creating a document map for a novel.
Well, I'm closing out this week with a "gotta love librarians" moment. Check out this article.
Check y'all next week with more chicken scratch.
Wednesday, August 24, 2011
Weekly Scratch: The Revolution, Craft, Fun
Howdy, folks! Whew, it hot. I hope the heat is keeping you inside writing masterworks.
Follow this link to learn more about the upcoming SCBWI Brazos Valley Conference. Check out editor and author Claudia Gabel's website. Claudia is a speaker at the upcoming conference SCBWI BV conference.
Plan ahead? The 2012 Austin Conference is on February 17 and 18.
Remember, the Mini-Retreat is around the corner. SCBWI Saturday: A Mini-Retreat to Inspire Your Writing Voice is on Aug. 27, 2011, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. It's located at Arts Council of the Brazos Valley, 2275 Dartmouth St., College Station, TX. SCBWI Brazos Valley Children’s Literature Book Club co-coordinators, Jacqueline Gramann and Alicia Clay O’Neill, will team up and present A Mini-Retreat to Inspire Your Writing Voice. They are combining their professional backgrounds to inform and inspire beginning and seasoned writers. Jacqueline and Alicia will present new ways to look at writing for children and have several writing exercises to unlock your writing obstacles.
We also have a Schmooze: Schmooze: How to Format a Manuscript with Liz Mertz. She will explain
standard formatting for manuscripts and why is it important at the College Station Barnes and Noble. Critiques start a 9:30 AM.
Are you a mystery writer? Brazos Writers has an all day workshop: BRAZOS WRITERS PRESENTS THE ART AND SCIENCE OF INVESTIGATION on the September 10, 2011 at the Brazos Center from 8:30 AM to 4:00 AM. Check out their website for more info.
THE REVOLUTION
Children's picture book apps are all the rage. Check out these two companies on the forefront of the technological wave. One from Oceanhouse Media and another from Skyreader Media Inc.
Want to convert a PDF for your Kindle/Nook/Kobo ebook? Here is a page to help you out.
What are some ebook trends on the horizon? Here is an an article with preditictons.
CRAFT
Here is a good blog about how to create a character bible. It's from the San Diego Professional Writer's Group.
Want to know the difference between magical realism and paranormal/fantasy? Here is a post from WriteOnCon.
FUN
Minimalist Fairy tale posters. Less can be more.
You probably want to check out Pottermore. You may need a place for your fans to dwell someday too.
Follow this link to learn more about the upcoming SCBWI Brazos Valley Conference. Check out editor and author Claudia Gabel's website. Claudia is a speaker at the upcoming conference SCBWI BV conference.
Plan ahead? The 2012 Austin Conference is on February 17 and 18.
Remember, the Mini-Retreat is around the corner. SCBWI Saturday: A Mini-Retreat to Inspire Your Writing Voice is on Aug. 27, 2011, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. It's located at Arts Council of the Brazos Valley, 2275 Dartmouth St., College Station, TX. SCBWI Brazos Valley Children’s Literature Book Club co-coordinators, Jacqueline Gramann and Alicia Clay O’Neill, will team up and present A Mini-Retreat to Inspire Your Writing Voice. They are combining their professional backgrounds to inform and inspire beginning and seasoned writers. Jacqueline and Alicia will present new ways to look at writing for children and have several writing exercises to unlock your writing obstacles.
We also have a Schmooze: Schmooze: How to Format a Manuscript with Liz Mertz. She will explain
standard formatting for manuscripts and why is it important at the College Station Barnes and Noble. Critiques start a 9:30 AM.
Are you a mystery writer? Brazos Writers has an all day workshop: BRAZOS WRITERS PRESENTS THE ART AND SCIENCE OF INVESTIGATION on the September 10, 2011 at the Brazos Center from 8:30 AM to 4:00 AM. Check out their website for more info.
THE REVOLUTION
Children's picture book apps are all the rage. Check out these two companies on the forefront of the technological wave. One from Oceanhouse Media and another from Skyreader Media Inc.
Want to convert a PDF for your Kindle/Nook/Kobo ebook? Here is a page to help you out.
What are some ebook trends on the horizon? Here is an an article with preditictons.
CRAFT
Here is a good blog about how to create a character bible. It's from the San Diego Professional Writer's Group.
Want to know the difference between magical realism and paranormal/fantasy? Here is a post from WriteOnCon.
FUN
Minimalist Fairy tale posters. Less can be more.
You probably want to check out Pottermore. You may need a place for your fans to dwell someday too.
Saturday, August 13, 2011
Weekly Scratch: The Truth, Plot, WriteOnCon
Howdy, folks! It's hot outside. No question! I've been off to LA for the SCBWI Summer Conference. Here is a nice write up in PW about the conference. Good times for sure. But now it's time to roll up the sleeves and get ready for the next stuff coming. Work is good.
Remember, the Mini-Retreat is around the corner. SCBWI Saturday: A Mini-Retreat to Inspire Your Writing Voice is on Aug. 27, 2011, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. It's located at Arts Council of the Brazos Valley, 2275 Dartmouth St., College Station, TX. SCBWI Brazos Valley Children’s Literature Book Club co-coordinators, Jacqueline Gramann and Alicia Clay O’Neill, will team up and present A Mini-Retreat to Inspire Your Writing Voice. They are combining their professional backgrounds to inform and inspire beginning and seasoned writers. Jacqueline and Alicia will present new ways to look at writing for children and have several writing exercises to unlock your writing obstacles.
We also have a Schmooze: Schmooze: How to Format a Manuscript with Liz Mertz. She will explain
standard formatting for manuscripts and why is it important at the College Station Barnes and Noble. Critiques start a 9:30.
Follow this link to learn more about the upcoming SCBWI Brazos Valley Conference. Check out Martha Mihalick's website: Martha Mihalick's Curiosities from a Children's Book Editor. Martha is a speaker at the upcoming conference SCBWI BV conference.
THE TRUTH
Have you ever wondered how much a children's book editor makes? Here's an article from GalleyCat that offers some insider info.
PLOT
Want to read a good book about plotting. Seasoned children's author Chris Eboch offers a new book called ADVANCED PLOTTING. Check it out. Here is a blog that talks about plotting a series. Check it out too.
WRITEONCON
Sad that you did not get to go to LA. Here is a deal for you: WRITEONCON! A free conference from August 16 to August 18.
Oh, this is hot summer. I hope that is reflected in your writing. Back soon with more scratch..
Remember, the Mini-Retreat is around the corner. SCBWI Saturday: A Mini-Retreat to Inspire Your Writing Voice is on Aug. 27, 2011, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. It's located at Arts Council of the Brazos Valley, 2275 Dartmouth St., College Station, TX. SCBWI Brazos Valley Children’s Literature Book Club co-coordinators, Jacqueline Gramann and Alicia Clay O’Neill, will team up and present A Mini-Retreat to Inspire Your Writing Voice. They are combining their professional backgrounds to inform and inspire beginning and seasoned writers. Jacqueline and Alicia will present new ways to look at writing for children and have several writing exercises to unlock your writing obstacles.
We also have a Schmooze: Schmooze: How to Format a Manuscript with Liz Mertz. She will explain
standard formatting for manuscripts and why is it important at the College Station Barnes and Noble. Critiques start a 9:30.
Follow this link to learn more about the upcoming SCBWI Brazos Valley Conference. Check out Martha Mihalick's website: Martha Mihalick's Curiosities from a Children's Book Editor. Martha is a speaker at the upcoming conference SCBWI BV conference.
THE TRUTH
Have you ever wondered how much a children's book editor makes? Here's an article from GalleyCat that offers some insider info.
PLOT
Want to read a good book about plotting. Seasoned children's author Chris Eboch offers a new book called ADVANCED PLOTTING. Check it out. Here is a blog that talks about plotting a series. Check it out too.
WRITEONCON
Sad that you did not get to go to LA. Here is a deal for you: WRITEONCON! A free conference from August 16 to August 18.
Oh, this is hot summer. I hope that is reflected in your writing. Back soon with more scratch..
Monday, July 18, 2011
Weekly Scratch: Perfect Pitch, Rejection Dictionary
Howdy, folks! SCBWI Brazos Valley has some events coming. First, on July 27 at the College Station Barnes and Noble at 10:00 a.m., author Sherry Garland will offer tricks of writing winning query and cover letters.
Don't forget the upcoming mini-retreat! SCBWI Saturday: A Mini-Retreat to Inspire Your Writing Voice on Aug. 27, 2011, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Arts Council of the Brazos Valley (2275 Dartmouth St., College Station, TX).Cost: Free. Offered by Brazos Valley Children’s Literature Book Club co-coordinators, Jacqueline Gramann and Alicia Clay O’Neill. More info is on the website.
Mark your calendars! Our annual conference registration -- Connections and Craft 2011: Writing for hildren and Adults -- is about to open. The conference will be held at A&M United Methodist Church on November 12, 2011 Keep checking the website for more information.
Perfect Pitch
Wonder how to avoid "I'm out of town" syndrome. Check out this article and learn the worst time to pitch a book.
The 2011 Backspace Agent-Author Seminar is November 3 and 4, 2011. This conference offers an interesting take on how to break into the business.
Want to pitch your book and don't know whether it is high concept or not? Author Lori Wilde offers some thoughts about that.
Rejection Dictionary
Ever wonder how to decode a rejection? Here ia a post over at ADVENTURES IN CHILDREN'S PUBLISHING and The Writer's Rejection Dictionary.
Dog days of summer. More scratch next week.
Don't forget the upcoming mini-retreat! SCBWI Saturday: A Mini-Retreat to Inspire Your Writing Voice on Aug. 27, 2011, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Arts Council of the Brazos Valley (2275 Dartmouth St., College Station, TX).Cost: Free. Offered by Brazos Valley Children’s Literature Book Club co-coordinators, Jacqueline Gramann and Alicia Clay O’Neill. More info is on the website.
Mark your calendars! Our annual conference registration -- Connections and Craft 2011: Writing for hildren and Adults -- is about to open. The conference will be held at A&M United Methodist Church on November 12, 2011 Keep checking the website for more information.
Perfect Pitch
Wonder how to avoid "I'm out of town" syndrome. Check out this article and learn the worst time to pitch a book.
The 2011 Backspace Agent-Author Seminar is November 3 and 4, 2011. This conference offers an interesting take on how to break into the business.
Want to pitch your book and don't know whether it is high concept or not? Author Lori Wilde offers some thoughts about that.
Rejection Dictionary
Ever wonder how to decode a rejection? Here ia a post over at ADVENTURES IN CHILDREN'S PUBLISHING and The Writer's Rejection Dictionary.
Dog days of summer. More scratch next week.
Friday, July 8, 2011
Weekly Scratch: YA Opportunity, Revolution, Good Letters, Tweets, Book Club, Craft
Howdy, folks. I hope y'all are not too hot. Keep working on your projects. Make space for the art and craft of children's books. I hope are writing heats up just like the weather. Check out the SCBWI Brazos Valley website for upcoming events: schmoozes, a retreat, a conference. Lots of cool stuff ahead.
YA Opportunity
Here is a new magazine for emerging YA authors. It's called Sucker Literary Magazine. It's featured in PW. It's a place for short fiction. You may wish to check it out.
Revolution
Yes, HarperCollins "I Can Read Books" are now digital. More migration from print. Read about in PW.
The number of print books sold has fallen by 10% in the past 6 months. The biggest chunk is out of adult fiction -- also reported in PW.
SCBWI Austin has a conference on October 8, 2011 at Saint Edwards University: Storytelling in the Digital Age: Embrace the Change. Folks in the neighborhood sort through the revolution to help you understand what is going on out there.
Good Letters
I love Letters of Note. They put some outstanding correspondence over there. Here is one to warm the heart of anyone who has been rejected by an editor. Enjoy.
Tweets
Here is a round up of tweets from agents from late June. You might find something interesting here.
Book Club
Don't want to get out in the heat but you do want to hang with readers of good books. Check out this how to Host A Virtual Book Club article.
Craft
Underneath every story is something hovering. What are you not saying when you are writing? Why is that important. Read this article on subtext if you feel the need to dive into the deep end of the craft pool. :)
Write more this week. I'll see you next week with more of the weekly scratch.
YA Opportunity
Here is a new magazine for emerging YA authors. It's called Sucker Literary Magazine. It's featured in PW. It's a place for short fiction. You may wish to check it out.
Revolution
Yes, HarperCollins "I Can Read Books" are now digital. More migration from print. Read about in PW.
The number of print books sold has fallen by 10% in the past 6 months. The biggest chunk is out of adult fiction -- also reported in PW.
SCBWI Austin has a conference on October 8, 2011 at Saint Edwards University: Storytelling in the Digital Age: Embrace the Change. Folks in the neighborhood sort through the revolution to help you understand what is going on out there.
Good Letters
I love Letters of Note. They put some outstanding correspondence over there. Here is one to warm the heart of anyone who has been rejected by an editor. Enjoy.
Tweets
Here is a round up of tweets from agents from late June. You might find something interesting here.
Book Club
Don't want to get out in the heat but you do want to hang with readers of good books. Check out this how to Host A Virtual Book Club article.
Craft
Underneath every story is something hovering. What are you not saying when you are writing? Why is that important. Read this article on subtext if you feel the need to dive into the deep end of the craft pool. :)
Write more this week. I'll see you next week with more of the weekly scratch.
Friday, July 1, 2011
Weekly Scratch: Mom Power, The Darkness, Life VS Writing, Rule breakers, Query!
Howdy, Folks. I hope your work is heating up like our summer, because if it is, you are on fire. In the news is former SCBWI Brazos Valley member Donna Cooner . Read about her six-figure debut deal here. Shout out to her on Facebook! Kathi Appelt is a contributing writer to Writing Young Adult Fiction for Children. So yay! I hope you all enjoy the Fourth!
Mom Power
I like this article about the power of moms to influence book sales and think it is cool.
The Darkness
Lots of folks are arguing about this article about in the Wall Street Journal about the darkness in YA books. Believe me this has incited dramatic feelings and many are going on and on about this article. Be sure to check out the comments too.
Life vs. Writing
Some advice to keep you writing even if life is throwing you tons of curve balls. This is all about Plan B.
Rule breaker.
Do you see rules as merely the guidelines. Apparently George Orwell wrote the rules. Follow this link to learn them. You can decide whether to break them or not. Here's a list of 5 rules you are encouraged to break. Give it a look.
Query!
Here is some encouragement to get you querying and moving away from your perfection. :)
Have a fun weekend!
Mom Power
I like this article about the power of moms to influence book sales and think it is cool.
The Darkness
Lots of folks are arguing about this article about in the Wall Street Journal about the darkness in YA books. Believe me this has incited dramatic feelings and many are going on and on about this article. Be sure to check out the comments too.
Life vs. Writing
Some advice to keep you writing even if life is throwing you tons of curve balls. This is all about Plan B.
Rule breaker.
Do you see rules as merely the guidelines. Apparently George Orwell wrote the rules. Follow this link to learn them. You can decide whether to break them or not. Here's a list of 5 rules you are encouraged to break. Give it a look.
Query!
Here is some encouragement to get you querying and moving away from your perfection. :)
Have a fun weekend!
Thursday, June 23, 2011
Weekly Scratch:Contest!, Sequels, Tumble, Commas
Howdy, folks! Our next Schmooze is next Wednesday. Here's the info: 6-29-2011 at 10 AM at B&N in College Station. Writing Fiction from Life with Kathy Whitehead is the program. Kathy will take a look at how to use real life experiences in creating story. I hope your work is humming.
CONTEST!
The 2012 Highlights Fiction Contest is up and perhaps you are feeling particularly inspired. Give it a look. :)
SEQUELS
Do you want to write a sequel? I mean you've got the first one done, right? Here is some advice to make the second one.
TUMBLE
Not into blogging? Here is something to try, TUMBLR. As if you dont have anything else to do with your time. :)
COMMAS
Do you struggle with grammar? Do you need comma rehab? Try this blog post.
DICTATE
Do you want to reinvent how you create a rough draft? Here is something to try: dictate your story. Check out this blog post for the full scoop.
Well, there is a handful of scratch. Come back next week for more. :)
CONTEST!
The 2012 Highlights Fiction Contest is up and perhaps you are feeling particularly inspired. Give it a look. :)
SEQUELS
Do you want to write a sequel? I mean you've got the first one done, right? Here is some advice to make the second one.
TUMBLE
Not into blogging? Here is something to try, TUMBLR. As if you dont have anything else to do with your time. :)
COMMAS
Do you struggle with grammar? Do you need comma rehab? Try this blog post.
DICTATE
Do you want to reinvent how you create a rough draft? Here is something to try: dictate your story. Check out this blog post for the full scoop.
Well, there is a handful of scratch. Come back next week for more. :)
Thursday, June 16, 2011
Weekly Scratch: YA BOOKS, LAUNCH TIPS, IMPROVE
Howdy, folks. Are you hot? At least this makes me want to hunker inside and write. I hope you are doing excellent work. Here's some news about our local authors. We love libraries! Kathi Appelt will be at the Elgin Library on June 22. Read about it here. Kathi Whitehead and Molly Blaisdell are going to be at the Georgetown Library on July 28th. Here is a great interview from Sherry Garland at Marjoleinbookblog. I hope you are writing your hearts out!
YA BOOKS
An interesting article in PW about whether YA books are dark and depraved or are saving lives.
BOOK LAUNCH TIPS
Hey, it's never too early to plan! That's my motto. Here is a great article to tuck for that book launch in the future.
IMPROVE
Want to really pick apart the bones of a children's book with some experts. Here is a great blog to help you on your journey - Story Sleuths.
Here is a list of 40 questions that is guaranteed to help you make a stronger manuscript.
Here is a list of 11 free resources to help you with editing.
BLOG
Thinking about blogging? Here are some good tips to help you on your way!
Hope your writing is hotter that outside this week! See you next week with more scratch.
YA BOOKS
An interesting article in PW about whether YA books are dark and depraved or are saving lives.
BOOK LAUNCH TIPS
Hey, it's never too early to plan! That's my motto. Here is a great article to tuck for that book launch in the future.
IMPROVE
Want to really pick apart the bones of a children's book with some experts. Here is a great blog to help you on your journey - Story Sleuths.
Here is a list of 40 questions that is guaranteed to help you make a stronger manuscript.
Here is a list of 11 free resources to help you with editing.
BLOG
Thinking about blogging? Here are some good tips to help you on your way!
Hope your writing is hotter that outside this week! See you next week with more scratch.
Wednesday, June 8, 2011
Weekly Scratch: Genre Writing, Agents, Self Publishing, Tweets
Howdy, folks, hope your work is humming! I hope you find something here to help you on your creative journey.
GENRE WRITING
Summer season is out and I have noticed that there are a boatload of superhero movies out there. Here is a blog post that shares some good advice for superhero writing at SuperheroNation.
AGENTS
Here is a new agent to check out at JABerwocky Literary: Jesse Cammack.
Here is a spotlight at Literary Rambles about Spieler Agency's Eric Meyer.
SELF PUBLISHING
DuoLit offers some good weekly links and advice about self-publishing and marketing.
TWEETS
Too busy for twitter, here is mystery writer's Elizabeth Spain Craig's best tweets for lit folks this week. Useful stuff.
Hope you make awesome progress this week!
GENRE WRITING
Summer season is out and I have noticed that there are a boatload of superhero movies out there. Here is a blog post that shares some good advice for superhero writing at SuperheroNation.
AGENTS
Here is a new agent to check out at JABerwocky Literary: Jesse Cammack.
Here is a spotlight at Literary Rambles about Spieler Agency's Eric Meyer.
SELF PUBLISHING
DuoLit offers some good weekly links and advice about self-publishing and marketing.
TWEETS
Too busy for twitter, here is mystery writer's Elizabeth Spain Craig's best tweets for lit folks this week. Useful stuff.
Hope you make awesome progress this week!
Wednesday, June 1, 2011
Weekly Scratch: Statewide Opportunities, Great Conferences, Educational Opportunities
Howdy, folks,
I hope that you are having a good week. Please remember that all the links provided below are for informational purpose and not to be considered an endorsement unless it is an SCBWI event. Do you your research. If I missed anything, send me an email and I will post the link next week.
Here is news about our next local SCBWI event.
For the next Saturday opportunity in the Brazos Valley, bring your work-in-progress or a new notebook to our mini-retreat on August 27.
SCBWI Saturday Mini-RetreatL August 27, 2011, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., Arts Council of the Brazos Valley building, -- A Mini-Retreat to Inspire Your Writing Voice: SCBWI Brazos Valley Children’s Literature Book Club co-coordinators, Jacqueline Gramann and Alicia Clay O’Neill, will team-up and present A Mini-Retreat to Inspire Your Writing Voice. They are combining their professional backgrounds to inform and inspire beginning and seasoned writers. Jacqueline and Alicia will present new ways to look at writing for children and have several writing exercises to unlock your writing obstacles.
Alicia Clay O’Neill, M.A. is a college-level English instructor and has taught writing at Texas A&M University and most recently to students at Blinn College. Alicia is a 2nd grade Faith Formation teacher, mother to an energetic 3 year old, and works as a reading intervention tutor with a special interest in instruction for dyslexic students. Alicia enjoys coaching writers at all levels of the writing process and she has found that teaching is the best way to learn. She will present “Voicing Your Characters.”
Jacqueline Gramann, Ed.M. has over twenty years of experience in teaching, research, and the writing of educational briefs, research reports, and training manuals. She has taught toddlers to adults in the fields of gifted and talented, early childhood, child development, and family literacy. Research work has been in metacognition and emergent literacy. A SCBWI member since 1982, she has attended many workshops, including the Writers Workshop at Chautauqua. Currently, Jacqueline is crossing her fingers and following-up her first publication in children’s writing with rewriting, blogging and submitting new manuscripts to editors. She will lead off with “Informing Your Story Voice.”
CLBC:
For information about our Children's Literature Book Club, join the yahoo group to view the calendar of meetings and books, past books, and to get reminders. The Children's Literature Book Club meets for book discussion at the Arts Council of Brazos Valley, 2275 Dartmouth Street in College Station. The next book club meeting will be in September with a couple of books by Richard Peck.
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ChildLitbookclub/
STATEWIDE OPPORTUNITIES
Registration is open now for summer classes and workshops at Gemini Ink in San Antonio.
SCBWI Austin - July 30th Workshop – Beyond the Basics: Applying and Analyzing Constructive Criticism with the Texas Sweethearts.</a>
GREAT CONFERENCES TO EXPLORE
SCBWI SUMMER CONFERENCE
SCBWI WINTER CONFERENCE
SCBWI NEVADA Mentorship Program
SCBWI Bologna in conjunction with the Bologna Book Fair. </a>
SCBWI San Fransisco Asilomar Conference
Writers Workshop at Chautauqua.
The Founder's Workshops at the the Highlights Foundation were not "highlighted" at our Schmooze.
The Rutger's One-on-one Conference sponsored by the Rutger's Council on Children's Literature.
The Backspace Writer's Conference. Backspace (http://www.bksp.org/) is an online writers organization with over 1,400 members in a dozen countries.
For publsihed writing professionals, Kindling Words Retreats--Kindling Words is an inspiring retreat where accomplished authors, illustrators and editors meet, talk shop, participate in workshops, and inspire each other.
Write On Con is an online conference site for children's writers with monthly events. It's sponsored by a group of very generous authors.
Robert McKee's Story Seminar.
The Whidbey Island Writer's Conference, a conference for all writers, but it does have a children's author track.
EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES
Institute of Children's Literature
Vermont College Low Residency Children's Writing MFA
Hamline University Low Residency Children's Writing MFA
Hollins University Low Residency Children's Writing MFA
Northwest Institute for Literary Arts Low Residency Children's Writing MFA
I hope that you are having a good week. Please remember that all the links provided below are for informational purpose and not to be considered an endorsement unless it is an SCBWI event. Do you your research. If I missed anything, send me an email and I will post the link next week.
Here is news about our next local SCBWI event.
For the next Saturday opportunity in the Brazos Valley, bring your work-in-progress or a new notebook to our mini-retreat on August 27.
SCBWI Saturday Mini-RetreatL August 27, 2011, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., Arts Council of the Brazos Valley building, -- A Mini-Retreat to Inspire Your Writing Voice: SCBWI Brazos Valley Children’s Literature Book Club co-coordinators, Jacqueline Gramann and Alicia Clay O’Neill, will team-up and present A Mini-Retreat to Inspire Your Writing Voice. They are combining their professional backgrounds to inform and inspire beginning and seasoned writers. Jacqueline and Alicia will present new ways to look at writing for children and have several writing exercises to unlock your writing obstacles.
Alicia Clay O’Neill, M.A. is a college-level English instructor and has taught writing at Texas A&M University and most recently to students at Blinn College. Alicia is a 2nd grade Faith Formation teacher, mother to an energetic 3 year old, and works as a reading intervention tutor with a special interest in instruction for dyslexic students. Alicia enjoys coaching writers at all levels of the writing process and she has found that teaching is the best way to learn. She will present “Voicing Your Characters.”
Jacqueline Gramann, Ed.M. has over twenty years of experience in teaching, research, and the writing of educational briefs, research reports, and training manuals. She has taught toddlers to adults in the fields of gifted and talented, early childhood, child development, and family literacy. Research work has been in metacognition and emergent literacy. A SCBWI member since 1982, she has attended many workshops, including the Writers Workshop at Chautauqua. Currently, Jacqueline is crossing her fingers and following-up her first publication in children’s writing with rewriting, blogging and submitting new manuscripts to editors. She will lead off with “Informing Your Story Voice.”
CLBC:
For information about our Children's Literature Book Club, join the yahoo group to view the calendar of meetings and books, past books, and to get reminders. The Children's Literature Book Club meets for book discussion at the Arts Council of Brazos Valley, 2275 Dartmouth Street in College Station. The next book club meeting will be in September with a couple of books by Richard Peck.
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ChildLitbookclub/
STATEWIDE OPPORTUNITIES
Registration is open now for summer classes and workshops at Gemini Ink in San Antonio.
SCBWI Austin - July 30th Workshop – Beyond the Basics: Applying and Analyzing Constructive Criticism with the Texas Sweethearts.</a>
GREAT CONFERENCES TO EXPLORE
SCBWI SUMMER CONFERENCE
SCBWI WINTER CONFERENCE
SCBWI NEVADA Mentorship Program
SCBWI Bologna in conjunction with the Bologna Book Fair. </a>
SCBWI San Fransisco Asilomar Conference
Writers Workshop at Chautauqua.
The Founder's Workshops at the the Highlights Foundation were not "highlighted" at our Schmooze.
The Rutger's One-on-one Conference sponsored by the Rutger's Council on Children's Literature.
The Backspace Writer's Conference. Backspace (http://www.bksp.org/) is an online writers organization with over 1,400 members in a dozen countries.
For publsihed writing professionals, Kindling Words Retreats--Kindling Words is an inspiring retreat where accomplished authors, illustrators and editors meet, talk shop, participate in workshops, and inspire each other.
Write On Con is an online conference site for children's writers with monthly events. It's sponsored by a group of very generous authors.
Robert McKee's Story Seminar.
The Whidbey Island Writer's Conference, a conference for all writers, but it does have a children's author track.
EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES
Institute of Children's Literature
Vermont College Low Residency Children's Writing MFA
Hamline University Low Residency Children's Writing MFA
Hollins University Low Residency Children's Writing MFA
Northwest Institute for Literary Arts Low Residency Children's Writing MFA
Tuesday, May 24, 2011
Weekly Scratch: A MOVIE, AWARDS, DON'T TELL,
Hi folks, Our upcoming Schmooze on 5-25 at the College Station Barnes and Noble at 10 a.m. will feature a panel discussing the following : Q&A about MFA programs, SCBWI conferences, Highlights Foundation workshops, and others. Be sure to check calendar for other weekly events. Have I mentioned that Sherry Garland's book VOICES OF GETTYSBERG has recieved a 2011 Storytelling World Resource Award for Stories for Adolescent Listeners?
A MOVIE
I want to see The Library of the Early Mind. It's a documentary about children's literature. Watch the trailer here.
AWARDS
Wondering who won the Edgar Award for juvenile books from Mystery Writers of America in 2011?
Wonder who were the finalists for the Mythopoeic Society's Mythopoeic Fantasy Award for Children's Literature?
Look,a new award to honor the exceptional writing in a picture book in the amount of $5000: PEN/Steven Kroll Award to Honor Author of an Illustrated Children's Book!
DON'T TELL
A good article about showing vs telling on the blog, The Blood Red Pencil.
I will toss some more scratch next week. Have a good day, folks!
A MOVIE
I want to see The Library of the Early Mind. It's a documentary about children's literature. Watch the trailer here.
AWARDS
Wondering who won the Edgar Award for juvenile books from Mystery Writers of America in 2011?
Wonder who were the finalists for the Mythopoeic Society's Mythopoeic Fantasy Award for Children's Literature?
Look,a new award to honor the exceptional writing in a picture book in the amount of $5000: PEN/Steven Kroll Award to Honor Author of an Illustrated Children's Book!
DON'T TELL
A good article about showing vs telling on the blog, The Blood Red Pencil.
I will toss some more scratch next week. Have a good day, folks!
Wednesday, May 18, 2011
Weekly Scratch: Trends, Market, Tweet, Advice, Revolution, Laugh
Howdy, folks. Hope your work is humming. Keep looking up and believing good things will come. Our books reach all kinds of places, Brazos Valley . Proof: If you go to Minnesota's Children's Museum, you might want to read (among others) Kathy Whitehead's book ART FROM HER HEART. Our upcoming Schmooze on 5-25 at the College Station Barnes and Noble at 10 a.m. will feature a panel discussing the following : Q&A about MFA programs, SCBWI conferences, Highlights Foundation workshops, and others. Here is a little blurb about Kathi Appelt at Chautauqua.
TRENDS
Here is an article about an upcoming trend in YA -- Myths.
MARKET
Pyr is entering into the YA market. PW
TWEET
Why is Twitter useful? Check out this little video. Comments of a NEWBIE tweeter offers advice for the want-to-be tweeter.
ADVICE
Some great advice from J. K. Rowling (commencement at Harvard.)
REVOLUTION
Production of all kinds of books in major decline.
Hot new site for YA writers...check it out - Figment.
LAUGH
Kurt Vonnegut and the curves of fiction. Good for a laugh and it might be some good writing advice too!
I hope something here helps you on your journey.
TRENDS
Here is an article about an upcoming trend in YA -- Myths.
MARKET
Pyr is entering into the YA market. PW
TWEET
Why is Twitter useful? Check out this little video. Comments of a NEWBIE tweeter offers advice for the want-to-be tweeter.
ADVICE
Some great advice from J. K. Rowling (commencement at Harvard.)
REVOLUTION
Production of all kinds of books in major decline.
Hot new site for YA writers...check it out - Figment.
LAUGH
Kurt Vonnegut and the curves of fiction. Good for a laugh and it might be some good writing advice too!
I hope something here helps you on your journey.
Tuesday, May 10, 2011
Weekly Scratch: Opportunity, Publishing News, Revolution, Bestsellers, A Smile
Howdy, folks! Hope you have had a chance to work on your writing this week. Keep digging and I'm sure you will find gold. The SCBWI Magazine Merit Awards were recently announced.
OPPORTUNITY
Lot of live query events going on over at Write-on-con (WOC). Next week, Monday, May 16 at 9 PM Eastern Time (That's 8 PM Central Time :) ) at WOC, Molly O'Neill, an Associate Editor at Katherine Tegan Books, Joanna Stampfel-Volpe, and Michelle Andelman of Regal Literary will show up for a live event. Check it out if you have a book to pitch.
PUBLISHING NEWS
Dial Books has a new vice-president of acquisition and development -- Jennifer Hunt. Check out the article.
REVOLUTION
Did you know that some literary agency are becoming publishing agencies too?
Ed Victor, an English based literary agency, has started publishing e-book and print-on-demand. Read about in PW.
BESTSELLERS
Here is a round up of current best sellers:
The current Indiebound "Indie Bestsellers" list for Children's Interest.
Here are the current NY TIMES bestsellers for Children's Chapter Books and Picture Books.
A SMILE
Did you just receive a requested manuscript? Good for a smile.
I will toss out some more scratch next week. Keep writing.
OPPORTUNITY
Lot of live query events going on over at Write-on-con (WOC). Next week, Monday, May 16 at 9 PM Eastern Time (That's 8 PM Central Time :) ) at WOC, Molly O'Neill, an Associate Editor at Katherine Tegan Books, Joanna Stampfel-Volpe, and Michelle Andelman of Regal Literary will show up for a live event. Check it out if you have a book to pitch.
PUBLISHING NEWS
Dial Books has a new vice-president of acquisition and development -- Jennifer Hunt. Check out the article.
REVOLUTION
Did you know that some literary agency are becoming publishing agencies too?
Ed Victor, an English based literary agency, has started publishing e-book and print-on-demand. Read about in PW.
BESTSELLERS
Here is a round up of current best sellers:
The current Indiebound "Indie Bestsellers" list for Children's Interest.
Here are the current NY TIMES bestsellers for Children's Chapter Books and Picture Books.
A SMILE
Did you just receive a requested manuscript? Good for a smile.
I will toss out some more scratch next week. Keep writing.
Wednesday, May 4, 2011
Weekly Scratch: First Lines, Micro Plots, On Character, Sequels, The Revolution, Hahaha
Howdy, Folks, I hope your plots are stronger this week. Thanks Debra for a great program last week! If you wish to apply for the Matha Weston grant that is open and the rules are at the SCBWI website. SCBWI Member's Choice Awards have been announced: The Crystal Kite Award. Tammi Sauer wins the Oklahoma/Texas region's Crystal Kite honor with Mostly Monsterly. Here's the link to the Children's Choice Awards if you are interested. Go Texans: Author of Year-Rick Riordan!
FIRST LINES
I thought this might be of some use to you on your journey to a great a novel. This is a link to the first lines of a boatload of classics--Interesting Things: The First Lines. Here legendary librarian Nancy Pearl's offers a grouping of great opening lines. Want a tweet of a first of children's book every day? Here is the spot. Here are over 1000 first lines of picture books. And here's some first lines from books hot off the presses from School Library Journey's Fuse 8 and famed librarian Elizabeth Bird.
MICRO PLOTS
Please consider posting your faves in the notes. I like to think about the micro elements of plots -- i.e. scenes. Here is an article that offers some useful guidiance on how to construct scenes.
ON CHARACTER
"Character is plot, plot is character." F. Scott Fitzgerald. Here is a guy chatting about how to use the Enneagram to build character. This may of be of some interest to you
SEQUELS
I really liked this PW article on upcoming sequels and I thought you might like it too.
THE REVOLUTION
Here is a mystery author musing about the rapidly transforming publishing world.
HAHAHA
You may feel this sometimes when you are writing your manuscript.
Have a great day. May the 4th be with you. :) I am so punny. See y'all next week!
FIRST LINES
I thought this might be of some use to you on your journey to a great a novel. This is a link to the first lines of a boatload of classics--Interesting Things: The First Lines. Here legendary librarian Nancy Pearl's offers a grouping of great opening lines. Want a tweet of a first of children's book every day? Here is the spot. Here are over 1000 first lines of picture books. And here's some first lines from books hot off the presses from School Library Journey's Fuse 8 and famed librarian Elizabeth Bird.
MICRO PLOTS
Please consider posting your faves in the notes. I like to think about the micro elements of plots -- i.e. scenes. Here is an article that offers some useful guidiance on how to construct scenes.
ON CHARACTER
"Character is plot, plot is character." F. Scott Fitzgerald. Here is a guy chatting about how to use the Enneagram to build character. This may of be of some interest to you
SEQUELS
I really liked this PW article on upcoming sequels and I thought you might like it too.
THE REVOLUTION
Here is a mystery author musing about the rapidly transforming publishing world.
HAHAHA
You may feel this sometimes when you are writing your manuscript.
Have a great day. May the 4th be with you. :) I am so punny. See y'all next week!
Tuesday, April 26, 2011
Weekly Scratch: Read a book, Famous, Opportunity, For Fun
Hi folks, SCBWI Brazos Valley’s Young Poets on the Brazos annual reading is TONIGHT. On April 26, 2011 the SCBWI Brazos Valley will have their annual Young Poets on the Brazos reading of winning poems from 6th, 7th, and 8th graders in local schools. The event will start at 7 p. m. at the College Station Community Center on George Bush Drive. Extra copies of the yearly anthology will be on sale at the Arts Council after the event. Please join at our only community outreach program and help welcome the young writers and their families! Enjoy refreshments!
TOMORROW is our monthly Schmooze. Locally, the SCBWI Brazos Valley Schmooze is at 10 a.m. in the "Science" corner at the Barnes & Noble in College Station on April 27, 2011, “Do I Have A Plot?” with Debra Booth.
TOMORROW is our monthly Schmooze. Locally, the SCBWI Brazos Valley Schmooze is at 10 a.m. in the "Science" corner at the Barnes & Noble in College Station on April 27, 2011, “Do I Have A Plot?” with Debra Booth.
Save the Date. Our Fall SCBWI Saturday will be on August 27, 2011 at the same location, the Arts Council building at 2275 Dartmouth in College Station. Details will be coming soon.
Save our conference date: November 12, 2011.
READ A BOOK
SCBWI Brazos Valley’s Children's Literature Book Club selected the reading list for the remaining meetings in 2011. All of the meetings are scheduled to be at the Arts Council (SCBWI BV is an affiliate member) building. Join in the discussion on the last Thursdays at 4:30-6 p.m. in the Arts Council, 2275 Dartmouth in College Station. The September book includes the next book in the series and, if you have time, the last book. The CLBC list of books read is in the Yahoo database. Upcoming meetings and books are listed in the Yahoo calendar. To get to the archives and current news with reading updates join the Yahoo group. Subscribe here: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ChildLitbookclub/
CLBC Reading List:
April 28: A SWIFTLY TILTING PLANET by Madeleine L'Engle
May 26: EACH LITTLE BIRD THAT SINGS by Deborah Wiles
September 29: A LONG WAY FROM CHICAGO series (including A YEAR DOWN YONDER; A SEASON OF GIFTS) by Richard Peck
October 27: THE WITCH OF BLACKBIRD POND by Elizabeth George Speare
Also consider checking out some of BOOKS at BEA (Bookexpo America) this year, PW reports.
FAMOUS (or soon to be)
Local author, Linnea Heaney, has her first publication in children’s writing at Hunger Mountain, the VCFA journal of the arts. This is a high literary online journal with one print issue compiled each year. Link to the publication and her blog here: http://www.hungermtn.org/a-real-best-friend/
Check out this. Kathi Appelt and other interviews are at this link: http://www.ourvoicesourselves.com/
Our speaker, Bethany Hegedus, author of Truth With a Capital T and Hunger Mountain editor, blogged about our Spring SCBWI Saturday and included photos of us at http://bethanyhegedus.blogspot.com/2011/04/april-foolss-friday-week-in-review.html?spref=fb
OPPORTUNITY!
More about Hunger Mountain: Hunger Mountain’s Katherine Paterson Prize for YA and Children’s Writing is coming up soon with the deadline of June 30, 2011. It has an annual prize in writing for children of $1,000 for the first place winner and publication. Three runners-up receive $100 each. Winners are chosen with one runner-up from the YA (young adult) entries, one from the Middle Grade entries, and one from the Picture Book or Writing for Young Children entries.
All entries are read by editors at Hunger Mountain. The judge this year for the Katherine Paterson Prize is Kimberly Willis Holt, author of the Piper Reed series, My Louisiana Sky, Mister and Me, Dancing in Cadillac Light, Keeper of the Night, Waiting for Gregory, Part of Me, and Skinny Brown Dog; winner of the National Book Award for Young People’s Literature for When Zachary Beaver Came to Town; and winner of the 2011 YALSA BEST FICTION for Young Adults for The Water Seeker.
Local connection: Kimberly skyped-in for our CLBC February meeting about her award-winning book, When Zachary Beaver Came to Town! Link: http://www.hungermtn.org/katherine-paterson-prize-for-young-adult-and-childrens-writing/
FOR FUN!
So, I like a good laugh. If you have not seen this video: So you want to write a novel! Awesome, so awesome. I think my heart just stopped.
Thursday, April 21, 2011
Weekly Scratch: Improve Your Writng, Fat Pig, Late Bloomers.
Howdy! I hope you have worked on projects this week and have made good progress. Are you going to LA for the 40 Annual SCBWI Conference? Registration is open. Details! 40th Anniversary SCBWI Summer Conference Registration. Locally, the SCBWI Brazos Valley Schmooze is at 10 a.m. in the "Science" corner at the Barnes & Noble in College Station on April 27, 2011, “Do I Have A Plot?” with Debra Booth.
IMPROVE YOUR WRITING
This book was mentioned at the Houston SCBWI conference. Late screenwriter Blake Snyder wrote SAVE THE CAT, a powerful book about screenwriting. You may want to check out the website and perhaps read the book.
Ways to get some writing education with out emptying out the piggy bank.
(to market, to market to sell a) FAT PIG
Chuck Sambuchino's blog A GUIDE TO LITERARY AGENTS is an important on with tons of info about agents and pitching and such. Check it out!
Hey, author Kate Hart crunches the numbers about what's selling in the YA market. You might want to check it out, too,
New to publishing? Check out Joe Konrath's THE NEWBIE'S GUIDE TO PUBLISHING blog.
LATE BLOOMERS
Here is a list of 40 writers that were first published over the age of 40. Hopefully this will cheer you up if you are feeling time keeps on slipping into the future.
Here is a blog post about three late bloomers who found there way. Maybe what you read here will help you keep moving forward.
Another up article for the late bloomers. :)
Late bloomers abound. Skip to the end of this blog post at JANE WRITES so you can read about the awesome children's authors.
I'll be back next week with more scratch!
IMPROVE YOUR WRITING
This book was mentioned at the Houston SCBWI conference. Late screenwriter Blake Snyder wrote SAVE THE CAT, a powerful book about screenwriting. You may want to check out the website and perhaps read the book.
Ways to get some writing education with out emptying out the piggy bank.
(to market, to market to sell a) FAT PIG
Chuck Sambuchino's blog A GUIDE TO LITERARY AGENTS is an important on with tons of info about agents and pitching and such. Check it out!
Hey, author Kate Hart crunches the numbers about what's selling in the YA market. You might want to check it out, too,
New to publishing? Check out Joe Konrath's THE NEWBIE'S GUIDE TO PUBLISHING blog.
LATE BLOOMERS
Here is a list of 40 writers that were first published over the age of 40. Hopefully this will cheer you up if you are feeling time keeps on slipping into the future.
Here is a blog post about three late bloomers who found there way. Maybe what you read here will help you keep moving forward.
Another up article for the late bloomers. :)
Late bloomers abound. Skip to the end of this blog post at JANE WRITES so you can read about the awesome children's authors.
I'll be back next week with more scratch!
Thursday, April 14, 2011
Weekly Scratch: Musical Chairs, Agents, Revolution, Awards
Sorry, I'm a day late, folks! I've had tons to do this week. I hope everyone is having fun at TLA. We have an upcoming schmooze at the College Station Barnes and Noble. Be sure to make your calendars. I hope all your projects are humming and that something here helps you on your journey.
AWARDS
Check out the American Bookseller's Association's 2011 Indies' Choice Awards. Check out the children's book winners. Check out their national best sellers list HERE.
REVOLUTION
Here are a number of APPS that have tie-ins to books that you might want to look at.
eBooks are selling but it's not enough to make up for losses. From 4/14/2011 Publisher's Lunch and the got it from AAP Consumer Data Presentation: In January, the increase in ebook sales of $37.5 million did not make up for the decline in trade print sales of $50.4 million. It was the same in February, with ebooks' gain of $60.4 million lagging print's decline of $93.5 million. If you want to read a fat article on the revolution in bookselling go HERE to NEW WAYS TO UNDERSTAND SHIFTING BOOK SALE CHANNELS.
AGENTS
Casey McCormick's blog is a weath of infomation on agents. Check out this: Agent Spotlight: Andrea Cascardi.
Nelson Literary Agency agent Sara Megibow was at the SCBWI Houston Conference. Here is a link to the Sara Megibow interview from Casey. And here is the link to Nelson Literary Agency.
Anna Webman was another agent at this conference. She is a Curtis Brown agent. She cautioned at the conference, "Don't believe everything you read on the Internet." Here is a link to the Anna Webman interview from Casey.
MUSICAL CHAIRS
The publishing industry reminds me of a game of musical chairs. Every one has a chair, the music plays, and then it stops, and every scrambles for a new chair!
News at Capstone Press: Ashley Andersen Zantop will serve as group publisher and general manager at Capstone.
Over at the PURPLE CRAYON, editor Harold Underdown is always keeping tabs on Editorial Staff Changes. You might want to check it out.
I hope you are working hard. Keep at it. The only sure way to fail is to not try.
AWARDS
Check out the American Bookseller's Association's 2011 Indies' Choice Awards. Check out the children's book winners. Check out their national best sellers list HERE.
REVOLUTION
Here are a number of APPS that have tie-ins to books that you might want to look at.
eBooks are selling but it's not enough to make up for losses. From 4/14/2011 Publisher's Lunch and the got it from AAP Consumer Data Presentation: In January, the increase in ebook sales of $37.5 million did not make up for the decline in trade print sales of $50.4 million. It was the same in February, with ebooks' gain of $60.4 million lagging print's decline of $93.5 million. If you want to read a fat article on the revolution in bookselling go HERE to NEW WAYS TO UNDERSTAND SHIFTING BOOK SALE CHANNELS.
AGENTS
Casey McCormick's blog is a weath of infomation on agents. Check out this: Agent Spotlight: Andrea Cascardi.
Nelson Literary Agency agent Sara Megibow was at the SCBWI Houston Conference. Here is a link to the Sara Megibow interview from Casey. And here is the link to Nelson Literary Agency.
Anna Webman was another agent at this conference. She is a Curtis Brown agent. She cautioned at the conference, "Don't believe everything you read on the Internet." Here is a link to the Anna Webman interview from Casey.
MUSICAL CHAIRS
The publishing industry reminds me of a game of musical chairs. Every one has a chair, the music plays, and then it stops, and every scrambles for a new chair!
News at Capstone Press: Ashley Andersen Zantop will serve as group publisher and general manager at Capstone.
Over at the PURPLE CRAYON, editor Harold Underdown is always keeping tabs on Editorial Staff Changes. You might want to check it out.
I hope you are working hard. Keep at it. The only sure way to fail is to not try.
Tuesday, April 5, 2011
Weekly Scratch: Horizons, Revolution, TUBWCI
Hi, y'all. I'm going to the Houston SCBWI Conference this next weekend and am excited! The TLA's Annual Confernece is coming up on April 12-15.. Local Texas stars, Kathi Appelt and Janet Fox will be signing. Little birdies tell me that more of our Texas stars will be around. Kathy Whitehead and Sherri Garland will be signing at booths also. SCBWI has booth too (that's a whole galaxy of stars), so drop by and say hi if you manage to hop over to Austin.
HORIZONS
Agent Mary Kole from the Andrea Brown Literary Agency is chatting on the AgentQuery Connect forum until April 12. You might want to check that out.
AgentQuery also has a nifty agent cheat sheet to check out. Scroll down the page where there is a special link to a post with hungry YA agents if that is something you are looking for.
Check out WattPad, an e-book community that has contests for YA writers with some really decent judges.
REVOLUTION
Here's an article from NPR about children's book apps that Ann Perry shared with me. Interesting stuff.
TOTALLY USELESS (but wholly cool) INFORMATION
Casting for Suzanne Collins' HUNGER GAMES has begun.
Some new Dr. Seuss books are coming out.
If you are heading to New York, you might want to check out this Harry Potter exhibition.
Hey, I'm sorry that the Scratch is a little late and thin this week. My computer died this past weekend and I've been scrambling since. I'll be be back next week with some excellent scratch.
HORIZONS
Agent Mary Kole from the Andrea Brown Literary Agency is chatting on the AgentQuery Connect forum until April 12. You might want to check that out.
AgentQuery also has a nifty agent cheat sheet to check out. Scroll down the page where there is a special link to a post with hungry YA agents if that is something you are looking for.
Check out WattPad, an e-book community that has contests for YA writers with some really decent judges.
REVOLUTION
Here's an article from NPR about children's book apps that Ann Perry shared with me. Interesting stuff.
TOTALLY USELESS (but wholly cool) INFORMATION
Casting for Suzanne Collins' HUNGER GAMES has begun.
Some new Dr. Seuss books are coming out.
If you are heading to New York, you might want to check out this Harry Potter exhibition.
Hey, I'm sorry that the Scratch is a little late and thin this week. My computer died this past weekend and I've been scrambling since. I'll be be back next week with some excellent scratch.
Tuesday, March 29, 2011
Weekly Scratch: Boy Books, Passage, New Horizons, World View, Deals
Hi folks, I'm speaking tomorrow about how to connect your work with the children's market at 10 am at the Barnes and Noble in College Station, TX.
BOY BOOKS
Publishers continue to scramble to find a way to get boys reading. Are you thinking about the Holy Grail of children's writing? Here is an interesting article in the Washington Post.
NEW HORIZONS
A new imprint for the preschool set -- Abrams' Appleseed will publish 8 to 12 titles a year. Reported 3/24/11. PW.
"WingedChariot is the latest digital partner for Walker...WingedChariot, already known for its pioneering work in the digital picture book publishing arena, will work with Walker to produce interactive apps based on Walker's award-winning, best-selling children’s book properties." Press release from Bologna CBF.
WORLDVIEW
Do you know what the Bologna Children's Book Fair is about? This book fair is really about the global market. Check it out if you want to a world-view perspective. Some highlights: Arab publishers at the fair.
Taiwanese illustrators at the fair, and more good news for Shaun Tan. He won a Oscar for his short THE LOST THING and now he's won the Lindgren Award. Reported 3/29/2011, PW.
PASSAGE
Dianna Wynne Jones, author of over 40 fantasies -- many for children, passed away on March 26. Her wild imagination and wit will be sorely missed. Here's a nice article in THE TELEGRAPH if you want to read more.
DEALS
Are you interested in getting an agent? Here is an article about a YA author that just made such a leap and is now happily published. From GalleyCat, 3/29/2011.
Self publisher Amanda Hocking, Kindle phenom, just landed a traditional publishing deal. Read about it in THE NEW YORKER book blog.
BOY BOOKS
Publishers continue to scramble to find a way to get boys reading. Are you thinking about the Holy Grail of children's writing? Here is an interesting article in the Washington Post.
NEW HORIZONS
A new imprint for the preschool set -- Abrams' Appleseed will publish 8 to 12 titles a year. Reported 3/24/11. PW.
"WingedChariot is the latest digital partner for Walker...WingedChariot, already known for its pioneering work in the digital picture book publishing arena, will work with Walker to produce interactive apps based on Walker's award-winning, best-selling children’s book properties." Press release from Bologna CBF.
WORLDVIEW
Do you know what the Bologna Children's Book Fair is about? This book fair is really about the global market. Check it out if you want to a world-view perspective. Some highlights: Arab publishers at the fair.
Taiwanese illustrators at the fair, and more good news for Shaun Tan. He won a Oscar for his short THE LOST THING and now he's won the Lindgren Award. Reported 3/29/2011, PW.
PASSAGE
Dianna Wynne Jones, author of over 40 fantasies -- many for children, passed away on March 26. Her wild imagination and wit will be sorely missed. Here's a nice article in THE TELEGRAPH if you want to read more.
DEALS
Are you interested in getting an agent? Here is an article about a YA author that just made such a leap and is now happily published. From GalleyCat, 3/29/2011.
Self publisher Amanda Hocking, Kindle phenom, just landed a traditional publishing deal. Read about it in THE NEW YORKER book blog.
Tuesday, March 22, 2011
Brazos Valley has two events coming up. Saturday, March 26, 2011 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. at the Arts Council of Brazos Valley, 2275 Dartmouth Street, College Station, TX, we have Spring SCBWI Saturday and "Create Your Own Canon" with Bethany Hegedus. Download Registration. $20. On Wednesday, March 3, 2011 at B&N in College Station at 10 a.m. mind behind the Scratchpad, Molly Blaisdell, will present "Sure Paths to Publication" to help you with your journey to publication. The SCBWI Houston Conference is around the corner. And you might want to check that out too.
DEALS
Hey, do you want to sell 100,000 books? Half a million? A million? Look in this article in PW with sales numbers on the high flying franchises in the children's book industry.
Patrick Carman is somebody who has been on my radar for years. If you want a great role model on how to create a fab career in children's publishing, he is someone to study. Here is a recent article in PW that covers his latest endeavor. I'm going to offer a tip. One thing I have learned in the journey of publication is one of your jobs as an author is to make sure your book reaches its audience (no one will do this for you). I think that Patrick is an author who really gets that.
CRYSTAL KITE
Hey, folks, I hope you voted. Congrats to local author Kathi Appelt!
Here are the finalists from our SCBWI region. You will find the rest of the regions' finalists here.
Who was the agent for the 2011 Newbery winning book MOON OVER MANIFEST by Clare Vanderpool? Andrea Cascardi at Transatlantic Literary Agency.
Want to know who reps who in the literary world? Check out this list from Querytracker.net.
I hope you found something that helps you on your journey here. See you next week.
DEALS
Hey, do you want to sell 100,000 books? Half a million? A million? Look in this article in PW with sales numbers on the high flying franchises in the children's book industry.
Patrick Carman is somebody who has been on my radar for years. If you want a great role model on how to create a fab career in children's publishing, he is someone to study. Here is a recent article in PW that covers his latest endeavor. I'm going to offer a tip. One thing I have learned in the journey of publication is one of your jobs as an author is to make sure your book reaches its audience (no one will do this for you). I think that Patrick is an author who really gets that.
CRYSTAL KITE
Hey, folks, I hope you voted. Congrats to local author Kathi Appelt!
Here are the finalists from our SCBWI region. You will find the rest of the regions' finalists here.
TEXAS/OKLAHOMA
KEEPER, Kathi Appelt
MOSTLY MONSTERLY, Tammi Sauer
SAVING MADDIE, Varian Johnson
SHARK VS. TRAIN, Chris Barton
THE BATTLE OF THE SNOWCONES, Lupe Ruiz-Flores
SPOTLIGHTWho was the agent for the 2011 Newbery winning book MOON OVER MANIFEST by Clare Vanderpool? Andrea Cascardi at Transatlantic Literary Agency.
Want to know who reps who in the literary world? Check out this list from Querytracker.net.
I hope you found something that helps you on your journey here. See you next week.
Tuesday, March 15, 2011
Weekly Scratch: Revolution, Free Stuff, and News
Hi, folks, I hope that you are working hard on your current works. I've been watching the feeds and hope that I have a little tidbit here to help you on your journey toward publication.
REVOLUTION
Publishing as an industry is rapidly changing. The value of content is changing, and we all need to move with the times. Here are few interesting bits that you may find of interest.
How about this idea, folks -- Hulu for books. Here is an article from Galleycat that will give you an peek inside on possible future publishing scenario.
First up an interesting press release from ALA with a perspective on how restrictions on e-book lending required by publishers is threatening access to information.
This week author Chris Eboch is offering a startling perspective covering the new frontiers in self-publishing on the Spectacle, a blog about speculative fiction for children and teens.
FREE STUFF
Chris Eboch is a multi-book author if you follow her blog Write Like a Pro! A Free Online Writing Workshop, you are eligible for a free critique.
If you want a free copy of a hot new book CHAOS by Rachael Ward swing by The Neverending Shelf blog and drop your name in the hat.
Over at the blog of CHRISTINE FONSECA, AUTHOR blog a whole slew of free stuff you can try for if you so wish at big Kidlit blog party. This is a nice way to network with folk and perhaps win a free thing or two.
NEWS
There's a new imprint over at Candlewick called Nosy Crow. Read about it here in PW.
In these days and times, authors need to think globally. Here is an interesting article in PW about children's publishing in Asia.
Remember this blog is for informational purposes and is not to be considered an endorsement.
REVOLUTION
Publishing as an industry is rapidly changing. The value of content is changing, and we all need to move with the times. Here are few interesting bits that you may find of interest.
How about this idea, folks -- Hulu for books. Here is an article from Galleycat that will give you an peek inside on possible future publishing scenario.
First up an interesting press release from ALA with a perspective on how restrictions on e-book lending required by publishers is threatening access to information.
This week author Chris Eboch is offering a startling perspective covering the new frontiers in self-publishing on the Spectacle, a blog about speculative fiction for children and teens.
FREE STUFF
Chris Eboch is a multi-book author if you follow her blog Write Like a Pro! A Free Online Writing Workshop, you are eligible for a free critique.
If you want a free copy of a hot new book CHAOS by Rachael Ward swing by The Neverending Shelf blog and drop your name in the hat.
Over at the blog of CHRISTINE FONSECA, AUTHOR blog a whole slew of free stuff you can try for if you so wish at big Kidlit blog party. This is a nice way to network with folk and perhaps win a free thing or two.
NEWS
There's a new imprint over at Candlewick called Nosy Crow. Read about it here in PW.
In these days and times, authors need to think globally. Here is an interesting article in PW about children's publishing in Asia.
Remember this blog is for informational purposes and is not to be considered an endorsement.
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