© 2013 by Jane Yolen
I have a Muse who works overtime, or at least that’s how it looks from the outside. But I think about something my late husband once said. An ardent birder and, in his retirement, a bird recordist whose tapes now reside in both the Cornell Library of Natural Sounds and the British Natural History Museum, he was known in the birding community as “a lucky birder.” That meant he seemed to find more rarities and more hard-to-see birds than anyone else. But his response was, “I show up.” And that’s what I think the Muse actually is: the writer showing up every day and doing the hard work of writing.
If you write FOR a particular market or FOR a particular editor you will often miss the mark. But if you write because your fingers have danced across the keyboard, because a character has tapped you on the shoulder, because a story has settled in your heart, then even if you never sell it you have done the work you were meant to do. And sometime, dear readers, real magic happens.
Let me tell you about a picture book I recently wrote because of a haunting photograph I saw on line. If I had stopped to think about its saleability, I wouldn’t have started it. But I plunged in.
The photograph was of an apartment house in Paris on which a three story, three-dimensional angel with widespread wings had been carved on the facade. There was a newspaper story about how the angel had been built and survived World War II.
I knew there was a story there, and three things leaped out at me: angel, Paris, World War II.
Before I knew it, I was beginning to write a picture book (40 page picture book at first which I eventually got down to the more ordinary 32 page format), called “The Stone Angel.” It was about a Jewish family and the daughter about six or seven narrates. The Nazis come in, the yellow stars, escape to the forest where they live with Partisans, and then their escape across the mountains to Spain and then to Britain where they stay in the country till war’s end. And on their return, the father’s job is reinstated and he finds an apartment in, yes, the angel building.
A picture book? Really? Not a novel? It sounds like the plot of a novel. Yeah, I kept hearing that in my head and I kept dismissing the idea. I finished the picture book, sent it editor Jill Santopolo who was doing my fairy tale novels. It was not her kind of thing at all.
And in two weeks, she’d bought the book, found an illustrator, helped me shrink the text to a 32 pager (saying, “I love this as a 40 page book and if we can’t make it work at 32 pages with the same power, I can make the case for the longer picture book.”).
But sometimes the magic works.
© 2013 by Jane Yolen, all rights reserved
Jane Yolen is an author of children’s books, fantasy, and science fiction, including Owl Moon, The Devil’s Arithmetic, and How Do Dinosaurs Say Goodnight?
She is also a poet, a teacher of writing and literature, and a reviewer of children’s literature. She has been called the Hans Christian Andersen of America and the Aesop of the twentieth century.
Jane Yolen’s books and stories have won the Caldecott Medal, two Nebula Awards, two Christopher Medals, the World Fantasy Award, three Mythopoeic Fantasy Awards, the Golden Kite Award, the Jewish Book Award, the World Fantasy Association’s Lifetime Achievement Award, and the Association of Jewish Libraries Award among many others.
Her website JaneYolen.com presents information about her over three hundred books for children. It also contains essays, poems, answers to frequently asked questions, a brief biography, her travel schedule, and links to resources for teachers and writers. It is intended for children, teachers, writers, storytellers, and lovers of children’s literature.
194 comments
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November 13, 2013 at 5:41 am
Yvonne Mes
I had been looking forward to this post, and it is wonderful. ‘Write from the heart’ is something we all should post-it-note across our computer screens, perhaps. Love the picture and the sound of the new book.
November 13, 2013 at 5:52 am
Marcy P.
Jane Yolen- you are GREAT. Thanks for the time you take to live out the encouragement you offer others. I can’t WAIT to see this new one. This is something I treasure:
“But if you write because your fingers have danced across the keyboard, because a character has tapped you on the shoulder, because a story has settled in your heart, then even if you never sell it you have done the work you were meant to do.”
Thank you!
November 13, 2013 at 5:57 am
Juliet Clare Bell
Thank you, Jane. I’ve recently moved into an office that I share with a fellow children’s author and yesterday my big white board went up next to my desk. It now has ‘I showed up’ written on it. Great. Thanks again, Clare.
November 13, 2013 at 6:08 am
nicole snitselaar
I have been following your blog for some time now…
Thank you for the inspiration you are !
November 13, 2013 at 6:23 am
Margie Moore
Great reminder on why we write. When things are meant to be, they are meant to be. The important thing is to keep plugging. Jane, you truly amaze me. I thoroughly enjoy your daily poems and FB posts. You inspire!
November 13, 2013 at 6:25 am
Anne Bielby
Great way to start the day! You truly are an inspiration.
November 13, 2013 at 6:27 am
Elaine Kiely Kearns
I follow you everywhere, this post is the reason why. Thank you!
November 13, 2013 at 6:39 am
Genevieve Petrillo
So true about some things just being magic. I have often said, “Even if I am never published again, I would still have to write stories.” I may or may not have jinxed myself…. GAH! 🙂
November 13, 2013 at 6:41 am
lindamartinandersen
Great advice. How wonderful to have you join us here! Thanks!
November 13, 2013 at 6:50 am
patientdreamer
Thank you for such an inspiring post. The magic certainly works.
Diane Tulloch
November 13, 2013 at 7:09 am
Janet Smart
You are a wonderful writer, Jane Yolen. Thank you so much for the inspiring post. Almost every story, if not every story, I’ve written has been because I’ve been tapped on the shoulder and inspired to write it.
November 13, 2013 at 7:14 am
Sue Poduska
Jane, thank you so much. For being you.
November 13, 2013 at 7:32 am
Melanie Moschella
Thank you for your wise words! I loved the post!
November 13, 2013 at 7:52 am
Heather Hatch
No words better than, ‘Thank you’.
November 13, 2013 at 8:02 am
Carolyn Rohrbaugh
Somehow your post was sent to me twice. It was so interesting I read it both times, knowing it was the same post. Thank you
November 13, 2013 at 8:04 am
Tina Cho
Thank you, Jane, for your inspiring story. I, too, wrote a story that a couple people said should be a novel, but I believe it can be a pb! And I like what you said about showing up to write. Because I show up to write, now my 8 yr old son is showing up also! Tonight he wrote a 1,393 story, typing it himself!
November 13, 2013 at 8:04 am
shiela fuller
Love “Owl Moon.” Thank you for inspiring us to just “show up.” Sometimes we need someone to remind us of that.
November 13, 2013 at 8:07 am
Pat Haapaniemi
What great advice! Thank you for such a wonderful post!
November 13, 2013 at 8:07 am
Audrey
Wonderful blog. Gives me the courage to go back and work on a story I wrote that I thought might be too intense for PB material. Thanks.
November 13, 2013 at 8:14 am
Jackie Wellington
This is an awesome post. When this post came through prematurely in my inbox, I read it twice and even when to Mrs. Yolen’s website. There I spent -no lie – two hours reading through blogs, writers’ resources, and teachers’ resources. What I thought was interesting was the fact that she still meets with a critique group each week. She posted a picture of her and her critique group who are also acclaimed writers in their own right. This was interesting to me because it did not matter how many books she sold, and how famous she was, she depended on the opinion of others. That confirmed to me why writers should get with a critique group. Thanks for the post. It was informative and inspiring.
Last night on Facebook, Mrs. Yolen posted that she came home yesterday to find four contracts waiting for her. I can’t wait for the day when I come home and find one contract waiting on me. “That would be amazing!” in my Oprah’s voice. KUDOS!!!
November 13, 2013 at 8:14 am
Pam Brunskill (@PamBrunskill)
Thank you for showing up with your own writing. Thank you for showing up here today. And thank you for always encouraging other writers!
November 13, 2013 at 8:20 am
Christine LeBlanc
Very neat – much harder to make such grand and complicated ideas leap out in a picture book (than a novel) – kudos!
November 13, 2013 at 8:20 am
Susan Nicholas
Just show up….great words to live by every day. Thank you.
November 13, 2013 at 8:25 am
Lori Dubbin
Thank you for your encouraging, wise words today. I look forward to reading “The Stone Angel.” What a powerful tap you had on your shoulder and you kept listening to it no matter what your other voice said. Thanks for that lesson.
November 13, 2013 at 8:26 am
Sue Heavenrich
Thanks, Jane, for reminding us that “showing up” is the essential part of seeing the bird/capturing the muse/hearing an owl… What a cool image – who knew there are angels guarding buildings?
November 13, 2013 at 8:27 am
Robyn Campbell
Excellent! Thank you, thank you. For being you who encourages every writer in that huge dream. I’m showing up! 🙂
November 13, 2013 at 8:31 am
saputnam
Jane, thank you for taking the time out of your busy life to be a part of PiBoIdMo and encourage others to do what they are meant to do, to sit BIC and … let the magic happen!
I have always written for myself first, never for the current trend, and really connected with, “But if you write because your fingers have danced across the keyboard, because a character has tapped you on the shoulder, because a story has settled in your heart, then even if you never sell it you have done the work you were meant to do.” My muse is happy to let me sit and watch the changing seasons outside my picture window and daydream, giving birth to another story that revolves around some aspect of nature.
I thoroughly enjoy your daily poems, journal entries and Facebook posts, especially those from Wayside and your time spent in Scotland
Sharon A Putnam
November 13, 2013 at 8:32 am
Joanne Sher
I am saving your quote from the second paragraph FOREVER. Thank you!
November 13, 2013 at 8:32 am
supermario6
I registered for SCBWI immediately (NYC) hoping to get in your session which I did! I am so looking forward to it.
November 13, 2013 at 8:33 am
Linda
Thanks for sharing this beautiful photo and how your idea came about. Truly inspirational.
November 13, 2013 at 8:40 am
jheitman22
Jane, thank you for sharing the origin of Stone Angel. You are the best and always so encouraging to us unknown writers. Here’s to showing up and doing whatever it is we are meant to do!
November 13, 2013 at 8:40 am
Denise Bowman
Jane Yolen, you are a constant inspirition to me, and have been for such a long time. Thank you for a beautiful post.
November 13, 2013 at 8:51 am
Meline
I have so much admiration for you from working in an elementary school for many years. The children loved when I read books written by you.
YOU are simply the BEST! I love your words and way of thinking. Thank you for the inspiration this morning.
November 13, 2013 at 8:53 am
taracreel
Oh, I’ve loved Jane Yolen all of my life! What a great post! Thanks, Tara, and thanks Ms. Yolen! So inspiring.
November 13, 2013 at 8:54 am
kathalsey
Jane, it is a blessing to listen to your works & a get a peak into your creative heart. Owl Moon inspired and it’s poetry inspired an ms of mine called The Hot Fudge Sundae Dog – it came from the heart, too!
November 13, 2013 at 8:56 am
Kathy Doherty
I needed to hear this because my agent won’t look at any manuscripts unless they’re written for 3-4 year old kids AND she wants me to write about a character that can become a series. Time to get a new agent.
November 13, 2013 at 8:56 am
Wendy Greenley
Jane is an inspiration! One of few authors who don’t really need a bio because we all know and love her magical work. Thank you for sharing some of that magic with us.
November 13, 2013 at 9:05 am
fashionistaphilly.tumblr.org
I have heard so much about Jane Yolen in the world of children’s literature that it so wonderful to finally meet and hear from her in this posting 🙂
November 13, 2013 at 9:10 am
Keith Frawley
“Show Up.” That is today’s souvenir. Everyday has one.
Thank you Jane, I needed to hear your words today as something has been distracting me. It might just be that character tapping me on my shoulder.
November 13, 2013 at 9:11 am
Lynn A. Davidson
I continue to be inspired by your guests, Tara, thank you.
Jane, I appreciate all you said, especially your husband’s quote, “I show up.” This resonates on a level I won’t go into here – and is part of a phrase I learned that has changed my life. Funny thing is, I hadn’t realized I was applying it in my writing, even though I find my best ideas come when I am just showing up and listening and not trying hard to make it happen.
November 13, 2013 at 9:16 am
Laura Purdie Salas
What a wonderful story. Can’t wait to read the stone angel picture book! I was just rereading Jane’s Once Upon Ice anthology this morning, and my shelves have many of her books (though just a fraction of what she’s published). She is an amazing role model!
November 13, 2013 at 9:17 am
Janie Reinart
Jane, I am a big fan! I agree showing up and sitting in the chair and writing is half the battle! Looking forward to your new book. Thank you for the post.
BTW Tara you rock!
November 13, 2013 at 9:18 am
creationsbymit
Such an interesting tale of how this unique picture book came about! Thank you for sharing!
November 13, 2013 at 9:21 am
Barbara Krasner
What an awesome and inspiring post! Jane, thanks for sharing (and it was great to bump into you at the Esselon Cafe!).
November 13, 2013 at 9:22 am
Tracey M. Cox
Jane, Thank you for justifying so many of us. WHO CARES if it sounds like a picture book!!! Show up and type out. 🙂
Thanks!
November 13, 2013 at 9:24 am
lindaschueler
What a beautiful story.
November 13, 2013 at 9:33 am
Heather Gale
Jane, great article – in particular I really liked the fact you write of your muse as a friend and I believe that is true of all muses!
As well, I so love your creative web page!
November 13, 2013 at 9:37 am
cherylsec
Jane, thank you so much for sharing with us today. I’ve been looking forward to your post and was not disappointed. Your words are inspiring. I love the idea that we need to show up for the magic to work, and that we need to write what we are meant to write. Your new book sounds fascinating. Thank you again for taking the time to share with us.
November 13, 2013 at 9:45 am
Susan Cabael
I, too, have a few PB manuscripts that people suggest should be a MG book, but I’m stubborn to keep them PBs. I do love when the muse strikes and “fingers dance across the keyboard.” Lovely image and such a wonderful feeling!
November 13, 2013 at 9:45 am
Laura Lowman Murray
Thanks for the wonderful post, Jane! I still have your “10 Rules for Writing” posted on my writing board in my office from my very first LA SCBWI conference. “Butt in chair” and now – “I showed up” remain the most important, and sometimes the most difficult, step in the process. I love the story of the stone angel – and will look for it! 🙂
November 13, 2013 at 9:51 am
Pat Holloway
Jane,
You are an inspiration. I read your post at least twice, then read the comments following the post. I admire your work and have applied so much from your blog in my teaching. Thank you.
November 13, 2013 at 9:52 am
julie rowan zoch
Thank you, Tara, for inviting Jane, and thank you, Jane, for inviting us. I have spent lot of time reshelving Jane’s books, and believe that’s where the real medals are found!
November 13, 2013 at 9:53 am
Juliana Lee
Thank you so much for sharing how inspiration becomes book. You have the talent to see a photo and create a beautiful story to go with it. (Maybe the angel was speaking to you!)
November 13, 2013 at 9:53 am
Deirdre Englehart
Jane, You have shared real magic and I hope that I have some to share too! Thank you for the inspiration!
November 13, 2013 at 10:00 am
MichelleLynn
You never cease to inspire, dear Jane. Thank you again for this morsel of encouragement from which I will feed upon for years.
November 13, 2013 at 10:07 am
Lisa Nagel
Jane, Thank you for this post. I especially like the part about how when a book has “settled in your heart” then you have done the work you were meant to do. As another comment noted, I too, spend a lot of time re-shelving your books. This speaks volumes to how much your books are loved. Thank you!
November 13, 2013 at 10:14 am
Stacy Gray
Thanks you, Jane. That was a great inspiration. I hope to feel some tapping on my shoulder sometime soon.
November 13, 2013 at 10:15 am
Angela Turner
Jane you are one of my favorite authors. I greatly appreciate your comments today and I find great encouragement from them.
November 13, 2013 at 10:19 am
Therese Nagi
Thank you Jane for encouraging us. Writing is its own reward. Thanks again for sharing your magic!
November 13, 2013 at 10:21 am
Mary Jo
“…even if you never sell it you have done the work you were meant to do.” This was my favorite line, and the most encouraging to me. Most of my stories so far fit this category! I so enjoy the writing of them, and don’t often get around to the “selling” part…
November 13, 2013 at 10:27 am
Pam Jones
A wonderful post, thank you so much!
November 13, 2013 at 10:27 am
Teresa Daffern
Thank you Jane. We love your books and Owl Moon is a favourite. Your book, Take Joy, was also very influential in my decision to try out the writing life. I think about your words and advice often.
November 13, 2013 at 10:30 am
Sharalyn A. Edgeberg
Thank you for sharing the story behind your story. I love all of your books, and used them when I taught elementary school. I would like to inherit your muse!
November 13, 2013 at 10:33 am
Joanne Roberts
Thank-you, Tara and Jane. You are both a consistent source of inspiration. I’m off to do the work I am meant to do, and we’ll see what magic may follow.
Thanks for the thoughtful post.
November 13, 2013 at 10:40 am
Dana Schlingman
Thank you Jane – I’m definitely a fan.
“You must once and for all give up being worried about successes and failures. Don’t let that concern you. It’s you duty to go on working steadily day by day…” (Walking on Water – Madeleine L’Engle)
November 13, 2013 at 10:43 am
writeknit
I love your insight. Validation that writers are doing what we are meant to do means everything to me. Thank you 🙂
November 13, 2013 at 10:44 am
Ellen Mott
Thank you so much for your wonderful blog message.
November 13, 2013 at 10:45 am
writeknit
Reblogged this on In My Words and commented:
Picture book stories are everywhere – just waiting to be told. Thanks to Jane Yolen for sharing!
November 13, 2013 at 10:51 am
melaniebellsworth3
Jane, your post is inspiring. I can’t wait to read THE STONE ANGEL. Probably the most important message I take from your post is to simply “show up” to do the hard work.
November 13, 2013 at 10:58 am
Nancy Armo
My favorite author. The best advice. Thank you!
November 13, 2013 at 10:59 am
Melanie Vickers
I left the PiBoldMo message to read your website. Wonderful suggestions on your journal are there to help writers like me. Of most valuable were the suggestions to do similar to painters, break down your story like breath spaces in a poem. A action I will take as soon as I punch ‘Post Comment.’ Thanks Jane
November 13, 2013 at 11:01 am
klmcmorranmaus
I am beginning to see a theme…follow your heart when writing. I will do that.
November 13, 2013 at 11:07 am
Jessica
I could not agree more. Write the story you were meant to write, and figure out where it fits later. There are many different “types” of books that exist now, that either didn’t exist 20 years ago, or were tossed into a broader genre. Take Graphic Novels for example. Kids love them. But, you wouldn’t have even thought of publishing something like that before. Not until they did it. Someone always has to be the first one to do something.
Writing a book that you think is odd is like being a teenager. At first you think that you won’t fit in anywhere, because you are soooo weird. Eventually, you grow into the person you were meant to be and accept your own particular brand of “uniqueness”. I bet you even found a few people along the way that shared in wonder of “you” as you were grateful to have found them. Everyone is different, we are supposed to be. But we are also the same (made up of the same things and require the same nutrients to survive). Just like every book is different in its own way, even though it is made up of words like every other book. And still, every book that has ever been published has managed to find its place on the bookshelf, even if it had to make one for itself.
November 13, 2013 at 11:11 am
katmaz2012
I have admired you for soooo long. Thank you for sharing your insights.
November 13, 2013 at 11:16 am
Tracy Molitors
Jane, thanks for the wisdom. I will try to remember “I show up” for the rest of my life. It is amazing that such simple words can embody such a powerful message.
November 13, 2013 at 11:24 am
tpierce
What a wonderful story. Inspiration is everywhere.
November 13, 2013 at 11:32 am
storyfairy
Wow, just wow! You are amazing, Jane Yolen! I’ve been waiting for the day I can tell you that.
November 13, 2013 at 11:33 am
LovableLobo
Thanks for your inspiring words of encouragement!
November 13, 2013 at 11:41 am
Jarm Del Boccio
What a fascinating topic, Jane. I love to travel, too, and will need to revisit my photo albums from those journeys and gather a few ideas. Love the angel sculpture. . .eye candy for sure!
November 13, 2013 at 11:43 am
Stephanie Shaw
Thank you, Jane, for reminding us to ‘show up’.
November 13, 2013 at 11:45 am
erin
Wonderful post, Jane.
November 13, 2013 at 12:10 pm
Kathy Moncrief
Thanks, Jane! I’m having a date with my muse right now…!
November 13, 2013 at 12:15 pm
schriscoe
Thank you so much for such wonderful advice.
November 13, 2013 at 12:17 pm
Lynn Ann Carol
Thank you for spending time with us. I just love you and appreciate your work. I also appreciate when we are reminded that we do the work for the sake of the work itself, because we enjoy it.
I look forward to your book, THE STONE ANGEL when it comes out.
Again, thanks,
Lynn
November 13, 2013 at 12:34 pm
City Sights for Kids
This is a topic I have been thinking about a lot lately – writing from the heart, that book that really speaks to you versus writing to a precise formula. I have projects that I feel like I need to forget about because they don’t fit that precise formula. The more I try to get them to fit, the farther they get from my original vision and goals. Rather than tossing the story in frustration, I want to find the peace in creating the story I was meant to tell and lovingly set the story aside. Thank you for this inspiration!
– Amanda Sincavage
November 13, 2013 at 12:48 pm
dzipeto
A beautiful image that spoke to you because you work hard at listening. Thank you for an inspiring post, and a reminder (because we keep needing them, I do) to listen and follow and work.
Diana Zipeto
November 13, 2013 at 1:04 pm
danielledufayet
Yes, you truly have to write about what moves you in some way – otherwise what’s the point? And hopefully, you can convey what has moved you to the reader so the reader walks away with a gift. Thank you for sharing.
November 13, 2013 at 1:04 pm
Tatiana Escallon
Thanks for sharing, now I am curios and I want to read the book,
November 13, 2013 at 1:10 pm
LeslieG
I won’t be surprised if BIC winds up in a dictionary of writing terminology some day, along with MC and POV. Thanks for the inspiration you are to us all!
November 13, 2013 at 1:29 pm
amievc
Thank you for sharing your wisdom. I have a small fraction of your many books in my personal library and have been amazed by your prodigious body of work (which continues to grow!) I appreciate your reminder that so much of writing is showing up every day, being ready for the muse, and listening when she arrives. Thank you for your many wonderful works and insights.
November 13, 2013 at 1:36 pm
Sandie Sing
You are our “writing angel” for sharing your writing inspirations. I am looking forward to The Stone Angel” and will remember the photograph shared with us. I hope someday, I will be able to bump into you at SCBWI. Thank you!
November 13, 2013 at 1:54 pm
Laurie Young
Hello Jane.. thank you so much for sharing your inspirations. I love your books .
November 13, 2013 at 2:02 pm
Eileen
Thanks for sharing
November 13, 2013 at 2:05 pm
Marty McCormick
In awe of all your books. My absolute favorite is EENY MEENY MINEY MOLE. Waiting for the sequel. Hope it’s still in the offing. You obviously ‘show up’ every day. No magic formula. Just lots of dedication, hard work, and persistence. Thanks for taking time to share your ideas with all of us.
November 13, 2013 at 2:06 pm
teresamis
When ‘fingers dance’ and ‘characters tap you on the shoulder’, the magic does work. Thank you, Jane for lovely comments and all your books..
November 13, 2013 at 2:09 pm
Christine M. Irvin
Sometimes my fingers “dance across the keyboard” and sometimes the keys just feel like a bed of sharp nails. Thanks for sharing your story with us.
November 13, 2013 at 2:09 pm
emazza1217
Great insight. There really is inspiration everywhere! So many ideas, so little time. Thank you for contributing.
November 13, 2013 at 2:12 pm
Linda Thompson
Thanks for your very basic, yet astute premise to success: to show up!
November 13, 2013 at 2:20 pm
Sandy Perlic
300 books for children? That’s amazing! I love the encouragement to write from the heart, not to the “market.” Hopefully those manuscripts written like that will find their place, just as your unconventional angel picture book did. Thank you!
November 13, 2013 at 2:35 pm
Kristine Gunnell
Heart warming and inspiring.
November 13, 2013 at 2:36 pm
sleighbolt
Thanks for this encouraging post, Jane…
November 13, 2013 at 2:38 pm
kpbock
I am in awe right now because you, Jane Yolen, are one of the main reasons why I became a picture book author. And, I am so thrilled to hear you say how important it is to follow your heart. I fully believe that this is the only way to achieve great writing. Thank you!
November 13, 2013 at 2:56 pm
Ashley Bankhead
I like the idea of fingers dancing across the keyboard. Thanks for the post.
November 13, 2013 at 3:04 pm
Eleanor Rubin
Hello Jane and thank you, your boundless enthusiasm and your well placed cautions against “writing for the market.” Your wisdom underline the importance of writing from the heart. Having stories one needs to share with children is an ideal starting place, as you have said so well.
November 13, 2013 at 3:10 pm
Sherry Walz
Your newest book sounds interesting. I’m looking forward to reading it upon it’s release. Thanks for taking time from your busy schedule to share your sage advice with all of us.
November 13, 2013 at 3:14 pm
vijikc
Jane, Thank you so much. I needed to hear this.
November 13, 2013 at 3:17 pm
Theanna
Thank you for your wonderful post. Thank you for reminding us that inspiration can come from anywhere, and not to dismiss it, simply because it doesn’t seem to fit. We should always write from the heart!
November 13, 2013 at 3:22 pm
Alicia van Thiel
Virtue of hard work…show up, thank you for sharing!
November 13, 2013 at 3:24 pm
Darshana
lovely post. thank you for sharing so much with the kidlit community. i follow your posts on FB.
November 13, 2013 at 3:42 pm
Daniela Weil (@Daniela_Weil)
Hi Jane, thanks so much for your inspiring story. I’d love to read the Stone Angel you mentioned, where can I find it? I don’t see it online…
November 13, 2013 at 3:57 pm
suedfrye
Jane, It is such a pleasure to read about your successes! This story brought another one to mind, Briar Rose, which is very memorable to me because of the young MC and her ordeal during the cold war. Loved it! By any chance, did Briar Rose begin as a short story?
Tara, Thanks so much for sharing Jane’s story!
November 13, 2013 at 4:01 pm
Gayle Madden
Inspirational
November 13, 2013 at 4:04 pm
Stella Jane Stauffer
Hello Jane. Wonderful post.
I looked at your website and really enjoyed your post, “For Writers.” I recommend that everyone read it. It’s a great post on rejection and writing organically from such an accomplished writer.
Looking forward to reading your books.
November 13, 2013 at 4:47 pm
dee win
Thank you for reminding me that I need to keep my eyes open and my fingers on the keyboard 🙂
November 13, 2013 at 5:01 pm
mochamusing
Oh my word – this was so beautifully written. I am printing this post and hanging it on my inspiration board. Thank you.
November 13, 2013 at 5:06 pm
Laurie L. Young
I am frequently told that my manuscripts are not PB’s but chapter books or novels. I am wondering if I can write a PB at all. Thank you, Jane, for not giving up on telling your story as a PB. This inspires me to persevere and keep honing my stories.
November 13, 2013 at 5:32 pm
Dawnyelle
What a wonderful post! Thank you for your wisdom and honesty… And the magic.
November 13, 2013 at 5:45 pm
Janet Halfmann
Can’t wait to read “The Stone Angel.” You are an inspiration every day! Thanks for sharing with us.
November 13, 2013 at 5:56 pm
Elizabeth Rose Stanton
“The Stone Angel” looks wonderful! Thank you for always showing up 🙂
November 13, 2013 at 6:45 pm
Jill Siegel
Very inspiring! I look forward to reading ‘The Stone Angel’. Thank you.
November 13, 2013 at 6:58 pm
Lori Mozdzierz
Jane, you are such an inspiration! I look forward to reading “The Stone Angel!”
November 13, 2013 at 7:10 pm
Pia Garneau
Thanks for sharing this post. Magical indeed.
November 13, 2013 at 7:18 pm
Evie Hjartarson
The book will mean so much more with the image of the angel apartment in my brain. Great blog.
November 13, 2013 at 7:27 pm
Cindy Schumerth
Thanks for the permission to write what you want, not what you think they want. You’re work is wonderful Jane, and you are an inspiration to me.
Thanks for being part of this PiBoIdMo form and sharing your time with us.
November 13, 2013 at 7:27 pm
Debra
I had the good fortune to hear Jane Yolen speak at an SCBWI conference a few years back and have her critique a manuscript. She is truly an inspiration.
November 13, 2013 at 7:39 pm
Gaye Kick
Thank you! Thank you! Very inspiring.
November 13, 2013 at 7:57 pm
Amy Cohas
Thank you for sharing your wisdom with us. I can’t wait to read The Stone Angel. I lived in Paris about 20 years ago and used to take walks in the old Jewish quarter near the Rue Des Rosiers. There was an elementary school with a plaque thanking the headmaster who had been there during the war for risking his life to protect his students. It has haunted me ever since.
November 13, 2013 at 8:14 pm
rlkurstedt
What a treat. Thank you Tara for inviting Jane Yolen and THANK YOU Jane for accepting.
November 13, 2013 at 8:55 pm
Dawn Young
What a gift. Thank you for sharing!
November 13, 2013 at 9:26 pm
Penny Parker Klostermann
Thank you for reminding us that we must “show up”! Love that!
November 13, 2013 at 10:08 pm
SevenAcreSky
Wow. Great wisdom, thanks for sharing your rich insights, your faithful response to inspiration. Let me be so faithful to show up for those moments to come. – Damon Dean
November 13, 2013 at 10:21 pm
renajtraxel
Often I’ll have an idea and think nope that should be a chapter book. Time to dig a little deeper and see if some of my chapter book ideas could work in a shorter form.
November 13, 2013 at 10:30 pm
Karen Mae Zoccoli
Thank you for sharing your time and wisdom with us! Greatly enjoyed your post….Thank you Jane!
November 13, 2013 at 10:34 pm
MSackman
Thanks for sharing your story. I love your statement about your fingers dancing on the keys. It is good to think about when you can’t seem to make something work. Forcing a story just doesn’t turn out well.
November 13, 2013 at 10:40 pm
Bev
A wonderful post. Jane, yours are some of my most favourite picture books, and loved to share with my students. Thank you for pursuing your passion. You have given us so many special books. I can’t wait to read this new one.
November 13, 2013 at 10:45 pm
marciecolleen
Ms. Yolen, you are truly an inspiration. Thank you for always taking the time to share with, encourage and mentor those of us who want to follow in your shoes.
November 13, 2013 at 11:03 pm
Pamela M. Tuck
It is late in the evening, after a long day of caring for the needs of my large family, but what a refreshing way to end it. I truly enjoyed reading the “heart” behind Ms. Yolen’s writing inspirations and the wonderful tips she’s sharing with us. What I’ve gained from this post is: Look, Listen, Imagine & Write! Thanks again.
November 13, 2013 at 11:10 pm
Cecilia Clark
thank you
November 13, 2013 at 11:28 pm
naomimgruer
Thank you Jane Yolen! I write because words form like melodies in my head, characters whisper to me, stories take root, I see beauty in so many things, I remember what it was like to be every age, and because I have to. Thank you for saying that if I never sell my stories, I will have the done the work I was meant to do. But, I have to admit, I hope real magic happens and my characters jump off the pages and into a child’s imagination.
November 14, 2013 at 12:09 am
Susie Sawyer
Another wonderful Yolenism to go with BIC: “Show up.” 😀 As always, thank you, thank you, thank you, Jane Yolen.
November 14, 2013 at 12:38 am
viviankirkfield
Hello dear Jane…magic happens every time you show up to share your thoughts with us.:)
Thank you…what a simple, yet profound point you make…the muse must find us ready – open – willing.
And your example of ‘The Stone Angel’ is inspiring – how many times have I seen something that moved me…and I just moved along. I make a promise to you – NEVER AGAIN! 🙂
November 14, 2013 at 1:04 am
Malena Fuentes
I am not very sure people don’t look at the market…
November 14, 2013 at 1:43 am
Suzanne kaufman
Great post. Love looking for inspiration.
November 14, 2013 at 2:30 am
angiekarcher
I love that Jane’s inspiration came from something that people pass every day. She passed by and found a picture book. Thanks for sharing your story with us!
November 14, 2013 at 2:57 am
Lacey Gunter
I will have to check out your Stone Angel book, it sounds interesting. Thanks for sharing.
November 14, 2013 at 5:52 am
Andrea P.
Thank you Jane- All I can say is…You and your words are inspiring!
November 14, 2013 at 5:54 am
Leslee Anne Hewson
What an amazing sculpture. She’s beautiful. Looking forward to reading your book. Thank you for the magic!
November 14, 2013 at 8:24 am
Beverly Snedecor
Thank you thank you. This post is a real blessing.
November 14, 2013 at 9:07 am
RadSheri
Thank you Jane. Wow, Jane Yolen commented here. I am so impressed.
It has been years since I heard here speak in Utah at a writing conference.
I think when the spirit moves you to write something go with it and keep writing.
November 14, 2013 at 9:31 am
Kathy Cornell Berman
Beautiful post. It’s the little things in life that help us to imagine. Showing up is part of the magic. Thank you!
November 14, 2013 at 9:44 am
Jewel Sample
I love the image of the stone angel. Indeed following one’s own heart in writing the story meant to be told is worth the effort, even if it is never published. I wondered if other writers wrote pieces that were for their own pure enjoyment of writing. Have you ever later sold a piece? Thank you for sharing.
November 14, 2013 at 10:16 am
Nancy Churnin
Jane, I look forward to reading your new book. I loved everything about your post, but especially these words which I plan to hold close: ” If you write FOR a particular market or FOR a particular editor you will often miss the mark. But if you write because your fingers have danced across the keyboard, because a character has tapped you on the shoulder, because a story has settled in your heart, then even if you never sell it you have done the work you were meant to do. And sometime, dear readers, real magic happens.” Thank you for reminding us that while we all dream of finding our way in the markets, it all starts in the heart and our true job is to be true to ourselves wherever that leads us.
November 14, 2013 at 11:18 am
Micki Ginsberg
Omigosh! I was recently in Paris and saw that angel. Thank you for your inspirational, unforgettable post. I hope our paths cross in New York.
November 14, 2013 at 11:58 am
heather sisson
Great source of inspiration! Thanks for the advice 🙂
November 14, 2013 at 12:07 pm
Ann Birnie
Thanks Jane – I am always looking for that picture that will inspire 1000 words or maybe less where a kid is concerned!
November 14, 2013 at 2:05 pm
Jennifer Voigt Kaplan
Thank you for posting. This has encouraged me to try to flush out stories for some amazing visuals.
November 14, 2013 at 2:33 pm
Alicia Schwab
Jane, it always great to hear your words of wisdom.
November 14, 2013 at 3:58 pm
Donna L Martin
I have lost count of the number of your books I have enjoyed over the years. Writing children’s books is DEFINITELY what you were born to do!
Great post!
Donna L Martin
November 14, 2013 at 4:04 pm
laura516
I enjoy your books immensely. Can’t wait for the new one! Thanks for the advice to follow our hearts and not the market. Our stories will only appeal to others if we can truly be our authentic selves.
November 14, 2013 at 4:14 pm
Donna L. Sadd
Ms. Yolen, I look forward to your poems every morning and enjoy reading your FB posts throughout the day. When I get one rejection and then read that YOU got 5 in one day, I say to myself…if Jane can keep going, so can I! You truly are inspiring! :0)
November 14, 2013 at 9:17 pm
writersideup
Over 300 books is simply an astounding accomplishment. There’s no way a writer could NOT want to hear what she has to say 🙂 Thanks!
November 14, 2013 at 10:04 pm
Jane R Cooper
Beautiful angel and inspiration…reminds me of our beloved Bass Hall Angels in Ft. Worth. Have a look! https://www.google.com/search?q=bass+hall+angels&ie=UTF-8&oe=UTF-8&hl=en&client=safari#biv=i%7C2%3Bd%7C_YOu3M5qDWmRXM%3A
November 14, 2013 at 10:14 pm
Suzy Leopold
Allowing the magic to happen is such outstanding advice. Thank you for the inspiration. ~Suzy Leopold
November 14, 2013 at 10:25 pm
Kirsten Carlson (@kirstencarlson)
Jane, you’ve done it again. I have no excuses left. First it was BIC and now, “I show up”…thank you sooo much for sharing your thoughts. You’re my mentor and you don’t even know it. : )
November 14, 2013 at 10:38 pm
Amelia Shearer
I just today discovered My Uncle Emily for the first time, and was blown away that Miss Dickinson had found her way so perfectly into a children’s book. A whole new world of what defines a picture book has opened, and my goal is to capture those themes with the same grace and gentle hand that I found in your book today. Looking forward to finding many more of your gems beyond the countless How Do Dinosaurs …? books my son has stashed all around the house!
November 14, 2013 at 10:50 pm
Quinn Cole
Wonderful insight into the spark and subsequent idea elopement of the WWII picture book. I am very visual and often use images as story starters. Thank you for this intriguing post.
November 15, 2013 at 3:39 pm
Kathryn Ault Noble
Jane, you continue to amaze and inspire!
November 15, 2013 at 8:46 pm
Carol Gordon Ekster
Jane, you continue to be an inspiration for me and many writers for children. Thanks you for your stories and hard work.
November 16, 2013 at 10:23 am
Debbie Austin
Thanks for “showing up!” I love how that angel became a story for you. Thank you for the inspiration and the encouragement to honor those nudges, those taps on the shoulder from characters and stories that want to be told.
November 16, 2013 at 1:09 pm
wendymyersart
Wow, you like a challenge! I have to read The Stone Angel because, well, you wrote it and I love your work, and also to see how you met what sounds like an enormous challenge. Thank you for such an inspiring post and for sharing your love of words with all of us through all that you do. You are an inspiration.
November 16, 2013 at 3:10 pm
Perfecting Motherhood
Some great writing advice here, thank you! My kids and I love The Owl Moon. Beautiful story and beautiful illustrations. A magical read, especially around Christmas time.
November 16, 2013 at 11:00 pm
Dana Atnip
“Owl Moon” is one of my favorites, although “Waking Dragons” may be taking over that spot! Thank you for always being such an inspiration, and thank you for the daily poems! 🙂
November 17, 2013 at 3:23 pm
bucherwurm65
Thank you for all of your stories. Thank you for showing up. Your work enriches our lives and your post inspires me.
November 17, 2013 at 11:14 pm
underthemapleleaves
I just found your dinosaur books! My daughter read them to her daughter, and said “Mom, your shortshots would really like them.”
Thank you for encouraging us to think outside the norm, and for doing the Stone Angel as a PB.
November 17, 2013 at 11:32 pm
Cathy C. Hall
I’m with Jane. Sometimes, you just have to get the story out, the way you see it. (Heard her speak at an SCBWI conference and thought, “Yes, of course. That’s why she’s got 300 books.”) 🙂
November 19, 2013 at 2:16 am
Dani Duck
It’s funny where you get inspiration isn’t it? Man the stories I could tell based on some of the artwork in downtown Vancouver… hrm I feel a story coming on!
November 19, 2013 at 12:38 pm
Shannon Abercrombie
Ms. Yolen’s books were the first kidlit books I studied. On my first day working in the children’s room of my local library, I picked up one of her books. By the end of the month, I had read every book from our library’s collection and had nearly filled a notebook with notes, musings and inspiration for my own writing. What a treat to hear her thoughts on inspiration!
November 20, 2013 at 9:08 pm
Priya Gopal
Beautiful story
November 20, 2013 at 10:01 pm
Lauri Meyers
Lovely post Jane. It’s amazing the stories an angel can hold within her (and I’m not talking about the stone angel 😉 )
November 21, 2013 at 8:37 am
Maria Johnson
BRAVO! Inspirational (as always)!
Lucky birder indeed.
November 22, 2013 at 9:24 am
littledbl
Thank you for sharing your wisdom. You are a fabulous author, in blogging or book. And I am loving this phrase: “I show up.” It applies to so much in life. But I love putting it in the context of writing. Again, than you!
November 23, 2013 at 10:08 am
aliciaminor
I bought a frame in a garage sale with an inscription-write it on your heart.
With this thought and yours in mind, we need to show up each day of our writing life. Thanks for being an inspiration.
November 23, 2013 at 2:10 pm
The World Is My Cuttlefish
Jane, one idea in your alphabet on your website provided me with just the right way of thinking about one of my current PBs. Thank you. I have ordered your book Guide to Writing for Children.
November 24, 2013 at 6:11 pm
Debbie Faith Mickelson
Thanks for your continuing inspiration. When writing from your heart, you can never go wrong.
November 26, 2013 at 3:04 pm
Meg Miller
Wonderful advice. It’s so easy to get caught up in the market and what an agent or editor wants… Thank you Jane!
November 27, 2013 at 1:51 am
blanchebaxter
Jane, you are incredible! Thank you for joining us and for your inspirational post!
November 29, 2013 at 4:05 pm
Tracey Jackson
I love your stone angel. I have a rather ghoulish photo that I took in Finland years ago – it inspired a story and now you’ve given me the idea that it might work for a picture book. I’ve been dipping in and out of your website since I read your post a couple of weeks ago. Thank you, Jane for all your insights. So inspirational.
November 30, 2013 at 11:21 am
Kelly Vavala
Oooohhh I feel so honored…Jane Yolen! My children and I enjoyed your stories so much as they were growing up! I later worked in special education where I presented an author a month. I particularly enjoyed “your” month. Our special Ed. students worked amazingly with your for-shadowing! Thank you for your wonderful contribution to our libraries and also for this inspirational post…love the Stone Angel and the story behind it! So nice to “meet” you! (love visiting your website)
November 30, 2013 at 12:28 pm
carolmunrojww
“If you write FOR a particular market or FOR a particular editor you will often miss the mark.” I remember you telling us this in the basement of the Hatfield Library. You had so many words of wisdom for us. When I stray from writing from the heart because such-and-such is selling now or so-and-so is looking for a particular thing, I hear you. So does my muse, who goes on strike. It’s so much more fun to write what I love to write.
November 30, 2013 at 7:17 pm
alwaysbedancing
This was truly inspirational. Be aware everywhere you are…a story is there!
November 30, 2013 at 9:28 pm
Matthew C. Winner
You, Jane Yolen, are amazing! Thank you so much for sharing with us all!
December 2, 2013 at 11:45 pm
Laurie J. Edwards
I’ll think of that angel when I follow my heart.
January 29, 2018 at 10:20 am
STORYSTORM 2018 Day 29: Jane Yolen Cultivates the Wild Idea | Writing for Kids (While Raising Them)
[…] see Jane’s previous Storystorm post about how a haunting photograph of the “angel” apartment building in Paris prompted a […]
January 29, 2018 at 10:51 am
Deborah Beauchamp
Thank you for the post! Always have to keep our eyes and minds open for ideas!!