Are you ready to jump in? Do you have a few picture book ideas you’ve been keeping secret so you can write them down today and count them? Now for some more…
Start an ongoing list of things you adore or loathe or laughed out loud at or evoked some kind of emotion that stuck with you. Is there a tradition or memory from childhood that comes to mind? What about that time your friend got in trouble for something silly? Write down that funny thing your grandchild or pet did that you keep telling everyone about. It could even be a ridiculous incident your cousin’s yoga instructor mentioned in a Facebook post that you’re still laughing about.
For example, my adorable 2-year-old girl in pigtails walked up to some older kids on the playground and growled in their faces so they’d move and she could play on the slide by herself. I then explained to her that we don’t growl at people. We aren’t bears or monsters. I wrote that down as a picture book idea. But it’s not really a whole picture book, and having Mommy step in to fix the problem is a big no-no in picture books. I can use that real-life experience as a starting point for a character whose personality doesn’t match her appearance, and then make it a better story.
Don’t be afraid to change the way something happened. Writing fiction is lying in a good way. Sometimes we get so stuck on basing our manuscript on a real-life experience or a sweet person or animal we love, that we’re preventing our manuscript from becoming a fully realized, great book.
I illustrated a picture book written by Danielle Steel that just came out this week called PRETTY MINNIE IN PARIS. (Cue the celebratory chocolate lava cake!) This book is based on Danielle’s own teacup-size Chihuahua named Minnie. Did Danielle write Minnie true-to-life? Nope!
In the book, Minnie loves being out and about in Paris, but Danielle’s real pet Minnie is squeamish about touching sidewalks or even being set down outside. In the book, Minnie is a fashionable pup with an outfit for every occasion, but when I visited Danielle and the real Minnie in Paris last year, Danielle had a blast dressing Minnie up for me, but Minnie was mortified! She is not a fan of doggie clothes. Minnie has even rolled on her back and refused to get up when Danielle dressed her in a snowsuit before. That one tidbit made it into the book, but the rest of the book is mostly made up.
If you’re basing a story on real people or animals in your life, you may have a tendency to try to protect them in your story or to make them too perfect. I have a sketch dummy ready to submit that’s based on my husband and daughters and a chasing game we play. I have to admit it was a bit hard to make my little girl shed tears in that story. I had to keep telling myself it’s not really her. Don’t go easy on your characters. They aren’t your real kids or pets.
To sum it up, be inspired by real-life incidents, people, and animals, but then ask, “What would make this an even better story?” That’s where the fun starts.
Kristi wrote and illustrated the picture book PENGUIN CHA-CHA and illustrated Danielle Steel’s picture book, PRETTY MINNIE IN PARIS, as well as the Little Wings chapter book series, THE GOODBYE CANCER GARDEN, CORA COOKS PANCIT, and others. Her books received a Starred Review from School Library Journal and won some shiny awards. Kristi graduated magna cum laude from Columbus College of Art & Design with a major in Illustration. She grew up in Wisconsin, studied in Ohio, danced in Texas, taught in China, and now lives in Indiana with her husband, daughters, and a room full of hippos, monkeys and sneaky penguins.
Visit Kristi online at KristiValiant.com or on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/kvaliant.
PRETTY MINNIE IN PARIS has its own website (http://www.randomhousekids.com/brand/pretty-minnie) with a look inside the book, Minnie’s map of Paris, and a paper dog activity in which you can print out Minnie and dress her up in lovely outfits. Oh la la!
Kristi Valiant will sign a copy of PRETTY MINNIE IN PARIS for a lucky winner!
This prize will be given away at the conclusion of PiBoIdMo. You are eligible for this prize if:
- You have registered for PiBoIdMo.
- You have commented ONCE ONLY on today’s post.
- You have completed the PiBoIdMo challenge. (You will have to sign the PiBoIdMo Pledge at the end of the event.)
Good luck, everyone!
469 comments
Comments feed for this article
November 1, 2014 at 8:39 am
Sherri Jones Rivers
Ooooh, I love any story with an animal in it. Great ideas for spring-boarding something real into something really fantastic!
November 1, 2014 at 9:31 am
Nina Haines
Things that elicit giggles make me want to write.
The book cover makes me giggle. Great information!
November 1, 2014 at 8:39 am
Camilla M
What a great reminder: even if your characters are rooted in a real person in your life, they are still characters on a page…and, thus, not real. “Don’t go easy on your characters.” Excellent advice. Thanks for the advice, Kristi.
November 1, 2014 at 8:40 am
Susan Cabael
Great advice to get beyond the true inspiration and not protect your characters but let them blossom.
November 1, 2014 at 8:40 am
carrie a. pearson
Great points, Kristi, about memories turned into manuscripts.The emotional truth is all that we need to keep because that’s what will resonate.
November 1, 2014 at 8:40 am
Tina Cho
This is one of my problems–trying to keep the real life idea true instead of expanding it or “lying” to make the better story. Thanks, Kristi!
November 1, 2014 at 8:40 am
shiela fuller
I thought of my first idea this morning and then opened my email to this “opening day” email. Let the games begin! Thank you, Tara for coaching and Kristi for your post!
November 1, 2014 at 8:40 am
culinarycam
Thanks for the great advice and reminder. Even if your characters are rooted in a real person in your life, they are still characters. “Don’t be too easy on them.” Thank you, Kristi.
November 1, 2014 at 8:43 am
Michele Prestininzi
Thanks for the reminder about lying in a good way! Sometimes I get stuck making it all too realistic.
November 1, 2014 at 8:43 am
Jennysha Patel
Thanks for the following tips: “Writing fiction is lying in a good way” and “Don’t go easy on your characters” – this is definitely making me refine ideas already!
November 1, 2014 at 8:44 am
Jane Heitman Healy
This is a great post that hits a couple of my weak spots–being too nice to my characters and thinking “it didn’t really happen that way.” Thanks for the tips, Kristi. I love the idea of “lying in a good way”!
November 1, 2014 at 8:44 am
Kathy Johnson
Great tips! I love the illustration of Minnie, on her back, in her snowsuit!
November 1, 2014 at 8:45 am
ducks33
Thank you for the advice on writing an almost true story. I tend to get stuck because I want them to be as true as possible. I’m already thinking of how I can get myself out of a jam on one of my current projects!
November 1, 2014 at 8:54 am
Jeanine Potter
I think I will be making “lying in a good way” an ongoing project- maybe not just in relation to writing! Thank you for that golden nugget!
November 1, 2014 at 8:46 am
Sue Poduska
Thanks for the great insight!
November 1, 2014 at 8:47 am
Ashley Bohmer
Pretty Minnie in Paris looks delightful! ❤
November 1, 2014 at 8:47 am
Susan Schade
“Writing fiction is lying in a good way” I am still laughing. In fact, I wrote it on a post-it and put that quote in my office. Thanks for the post!
November 1, 2014 at 9:02 am
Rebekah Hoeft
That is the first thing I wrote in my PiBoIdMo journal.
Actually, it’s the 5th thing, halfway down my page, but it is a much better story to tell you it was the first, right?
Thanks, Kristi! It is nice to have that reminder to feel free in fiction!
November 1, 2014 at 8:48 am
Laurie Theurer
Wonderful insight, thank you! Thinking back to what made an impression on me during my childhood brought up some things that had been long-forgotten. Thanks. 🙂
November 1, 2014 at 8:49 am
Shirley Timberlake Fadden
I am sitting with my 9 year old reading this, may have to reiterate that “lying in a good way” is for fictional stories. Great blog, reading it with a nine year old TBD. Hmm maybe this is my first picture book idea?
November 1, 2014 at 9:13 am
kristivaliant
Context is important. The whole sentence that Tara took the title from is, “Writing fiction is lying in a good way.” Yes, indeed, just meant for fictional stories, not real life. 🙂
November 1, 2014 at 8:52 am
Jim Chaize
“Writing fiction is lying in a good way.” So, the better you are lying, the better you’re writing? I need to work on my lying. Wait ’til the next time my wife asks me something.
November 1, 2014 at 9:15 am
kristivaliant
Ha! I need to give you the same response as the last post. The whole sentence that Tara took the title from is, “Writing fiction is lying in a good way.” Yes, indeed, just meant for fictional stories, not real life. 🙂
November 1, 2014 at 8:52 am
Laura J
I definitely need to read this post. I know I am guilty of trying to protect my “character.”
November 1, 2014 at 8:54 am
Margaret Flint Suter
Love the “fiction is lying in a good way” comment, some one once asked me about something I wrote being “real”. Hey, in my head, EVERYTHING is real!
Great start to the month!
November 1, 2014 at 8:55 am
Christine Michaela Sharpe
Great advice!
November 1, 2014 at 8:55 am
pathaap
Great ideas – thanks!
November 1, 2014 at 8:55 am
Laura Gehl
My worst picture book drafts are always the ones based on my own kids! I think sometimes it is hard to change your real-life kid stories, because to YOU (the parent) they are so darn cute.
November 1, 2014 at 8:58 am
Jackie Wellington
This post made a lot of sense to me. This is interesting and very inspiring. I have to go and work on telling lies…in my book of course. Thanks for sharing. This was entertaining.
November 1, 2014 at 8:58 am
Hayley B
PRETTY great advice, Kristi! Thanks!
November 1, 2014 at 8:58 am
storyfairy
Great post! I agree that it’s important to change details when you write stories based on people you know or experiences you’ve had. 🙂 -Lily Stejskal
November 1, 2014 at 9:01 am
3011mileswestofvt
This was a great reminder we can use literary license creating fictional characters, even when they are based on true life.
November 1, 2014 at 9:01 am
Becky P. Hurd
Lying in a good way. I love it! All you need is one tiny incident to springboard a whole story. With a few good lies along the way!
November 1, 2014 at 9:01 am
Angela Hawkins
I know some kids that, just like Pretty Minnie, fall over and refuse to get up after being dressed in winter garb !
November 1, 2014 at 9:02 am
erikammon
Lying in a good way…I think that may unblock an idea or four 🙂 Thanks for the permission!!
November 1, 2014 at 9:04 am
Karen Shipman
This was a lovely introductory post to kick off PiBoIdMo! I can’t wait to read more! And the book looks charming!
November 1, 2014 at 9:05 am
tanyakonerman
Great point you made about not having to stick to 100% accuracy when basing characters on people we know…always ways to make it more fun and interesting!
November 1, 2014 at 9:08 am
Loni Edwards (@LoniEdwards)
“Lying in a good way”. Love it. Thanks for the great advice, Kristi 🙂
November 1, 2014 at 9:13 am
Ginger Weddle
Thank you for giving us permission to lie in a good way. I will keep reminding myself of that. When personal experience is the seed for the theme or character, you are right, I am tempted to be protective and go easy on a character. Thank you for your insights!
November 1, 2014 at 9:13 am
Laura Bellina
I think there is something about using a real life experiences that makes a magical connection between you and the story.
November 1, 2014 at 9:16 am
Dee Knabb
A wonderful post showing how illustrators interpret a story. Loved it.
November 1, 2014 at 9:17 am
Deb Dunn
This is a terrific suggestion – especially since I just wrote a draft of a PB based on a real life little girl. I did change her into an animal, but need to give her another flaw or tweak. Thank you!
November 1, 2014 at 9:18 am
ManjuBeth
Kristi, I’m looking forward to buying PRETTY MINNIE IN PARIS! Good luck with your sweet family based PB.
November 1, 2014 at 9:18 am
Alexa Kaufhold
Great advice and gorgeous illustrations Kristi!
November 1, 2014 at 9:21 am
Anita Banks
Thank you so much, a wonderful way to officially start the challenge!
November 1, 2014 at 9:22 am
Daryl Gottier
Thanks for the great advice.
November 1, 2014 at 9:27 am
Jennette Mutolo
“Don’t go easy on your characters” What a great reminder that our characters are just that…CHARACTERS! Thank you!
November 1, 2014 at 9:29 am
Linda
How exciting to ilustrate a picture book by Danielle Steel. Congratulations.
November 1, 2014 at 9:29 am
Ann K
That’s what I’m working on – allowing my characters to push themselves into full fledged characters. Thank you!
November 1, 2014 at 9:31 am
Deirdre Englehart
I love this post! We get inspiration and ideas from all around us, but we can’t be stuck with the facts! Thanks!
November 1, 2014 at 9:33 am
Josh Funk
This is a great post. I like lying. (those two comments are unrelated)
November 1, 2014 at 9:40 am
kristivaliant
🙂
November 1, 2014 at 9:33 am
Marge McGugan
This is a great way to start the month. I need to remember your advice when I write my 5 year old’s character.
November 1, 2014 at 9:34 am
Stephen S. Martin
Ready to go and permission to lie and fib Whoo Whoo!
November 1, 2014 at 9:34 am
Debra Daugherty
Kristi’s post was on the mark. Every writer lies and stretches the truth. Love the illustrations. I was lucky to see a preview at the Words in the Woods conference last June. Congratulations on the book!
November 1, 2014 at 9:35 am
Nancy Churnin
Kristi, thank you for the terrific post. You have got me thinking! Where and when did you dance in Texas?
November 1, 2014 at 9:42 am
kristivaliant
I was in a competition and performance swing and latin dance group in Ohio for years, and then when I moved to Texas, I mainly went swing dancing in Houston and Austin. I need to get back to swing dancing!
November 1, 2014 at 9:38 am
kirsticall
Thanks for this post, Kristi. I really like your illustration style! I love your idea to write down what makes me laugh 🙂 I’m off to do that!
November 1, 2014 at 9:38 am
Nancy Armo
Love the wonderful illustrations and the fun advice!
November 1, 2014 at 9:39 am
Virginia Law Manning
Congratulations! Your illustrations are so appealing! I need to push my character out of my comfort zone! I’ve already started my ’emotional drivers’ list! Thanks for the encouragement!
November 1, 2014 at 9:39 am
Evelyn
I love the idea of Minnie!
November 1, 2014 at 9:40 am
Joanne Sher
Super reminder!! Lying can make a funny story a fabulous picture book!
November 1, 2014 at 9:45 am
Lynn A. Davidson
Thank you, Kristi, for a wonderful start to PiBoIdMo. This is such a good tip regarding being over-protective of our characters; so … ‘lying’ isn’t always a bad thing – in this case.
I appreciate your suggestion of creating an ongoing list of memories and experiences from my own childhood that could inspire pb’s. There might be a few gems to dig up.
Your illustrations are amazing! I’m sure Danielle Steele is thrilled.
– Lynn A. Davidson
November 1, 2014 at 9:49 am
Julie Durr
🙂 While she didn’t growl, my daughter did do something similar-writing it down now. Good memories. Thanks!
November 1, 2014 at 9:49 am
dsi1nyu
Everyone’s noted the great quotes here. Thanks for getting us started!
November 1, 2014 at 9:50 am
Janie Reinart
Kristi, that is so true about struggling to change a real incident lol! Love your art work! Thank you for sharing.
November 1, 2014 at 9:54 am
teresarobeson
Kristi is one of my fav Indiana SCBWI peeps! Not only is she talented and clever (as you can tell from the post), but she’s also super nice and freakishly organized. 🙂 Great reminder to not stick so close to life and the inspiring event. Thanks, Kristi, and see you next weekend!
November 1, 2014 at 10:07 am
kristivaliant
See you soon, Teresa!
November 1, 2014 at 9:55 am
Debra shumaker
Thanks for the great kick-off post!
November 1, 2014 at 9:56 am
Elizabeth Davis
Thanks for the great start! Personal ah ha moment . . .I love to write fiction so I can change what happened!
November 1, 2014 at 9:57 am
loriannlevyholm
Permission to extrapolate….this could be dangerous! Thank you for the great post.
November 1, 2014 at 9:58 am
Naana Kyereboah
Thank you Kristi, for the great tips on characters. I love the idea of keeping an on-going list of childhood memories to inspire writing.
I love your illustrations!
November 1, 2014 at 10:00 am
Jill Tadros (@PopTheWall)
What a great post to start with! Especially the idea of keeping a running list of incidents that stick with you!
November 1, 2014 at 10:01 am
saputnam
Great post, Kristi! I loved it when you said that, “Writing fiction is lying in a good way.” Thank you for reminding me that even if my characters are rooted in real situations that actually happened in my life, they are still characters… and not to be easy on them.
November 1, 2014 at 10:02 am
Sue Heavenrich
I like how we have the freedom to take something real – an event or a comment – and then stretch it and look at it from all different angles. At least for fiction…
November 1, 2014 at 10:04 am
Barbara Cairns
What a talented artist you are! Love the illustrations for Minnie. Thanks for your great post!
November 1, 2014 at 10:09 am
Kara Stewart
Great ideas! I started my lists already.
November 1, 2014 at 10:11 am
Linda Hofke
Great post. And I love your illustrations.
November 1, 2014 at 10:16 am
zebrakitchens
Fantastic. Even though you prepared us for Minnie lying upside down in a snowsuit, I laughed out loud when I scrolled down to the illustration. Fantastic job!
I loved your suggestion on having a starting point for a character be that her personality doesn’t match her appearance.
Thanks, Lynn
November 1, 2014 at 10:17 am
Cindy S
I’ve tried to write using personal stories and it is hard not to keep from protecting your subject. Good advice. Thanks.
November 1, 2014 at 10:17 am
Amy Houts
Adorable! I love it! When I couldn’t sleep last night, I started thinking about picture book ideas. So much fun!
November 1, 2014 at 10:18 am
Roberta Rivera Illustrations
Great article and I love the illustrations! Lying is a good way for the purpose of writing great books for kis is helpful and no guilt too!
November 1, 2014 at 10:18 am
Freckled Daisy Creations
Great post! And I just love in progress sketches! The Danielle Steel cover is classic and kid-u-ti-ful!
November 1, 2014 at 10:19 am
Doris Fisher
I love your art and can’t wait to read about Minnie. When I learned I did not have to stay ‘true to life’ it gave my writing freedom.
November 1, 2014 at 10:21 am
lindaschueler
I too struggle with changing stories from “what actually happened”. But when I do, they tend to be better. Thanks for the post.
November 1, 2014 at 10:21 am
Donna B
If I don’t win Pretty Minnie, I will go buy it. It looks great.
November 1, 2014 at 10:24 am
Amy Harding
Repeat “Lying is good” when writing!
November 1, 2014 at 10:24 am
SMHS
Wow- i want that coat the mom is wearing in the first illustration! Love the saturated colors of this book. My kids and I enjoyed reading Penguin Cha-Cha!
November 1, 2014 at 10:24 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Thank for a great day one – this was inspirational and fun!
November 1, 2014 at 10:26 am
jenniferkirkeby
Wonderful post! This was a great reminder that we all have a wealth of stories within us, and the joy is taking off with them. Can’t wait to get a copy of Pretty Minnie! Congratulations, Kristi!
November 1, 2014 at 10:28 am
Donna Rossman
Thank You, your post inspired my first journal entry! 🙂
November 1, 2014 at 10:28 am
viviankirkfield
Kristi…thank you for my PiBoIdMo golden nugget of today: Don’t Go Easy On Your Characters…this is the most difficult thing for me as I write because I want to make everything smooth, just as I do in real life. 😉 But if I can see it as ‘lying in a good way’…WOW…that puts a whole new light on crafting the characters and the story.
BTW…your illustrations are fantastic – I love them!
November 1, 2014 at 10:30 am
mariagianferrari
Time to stretch the truth. Thanks, Kristi!
November 1, 2014 at 10:37 am
hummingbird13
As I sit down with coffee in hand, new PiBoIdMo notebook and multicolor pens, I feel inspired. Thanks for the advice.
November 1, 2014 at 10:37 am
Tracey M. Cox
Great idea. I tend to write the character based on the ‘person’, but how freeing to get them to do the opposite or something so unexpected.
November 1, 2014 at 10:37 am
cindy loven
I am wondering if we are allowed to share these posts (as in copy and pasting them) to our own blogs during PiBoIdMo? Thank you! ~Cindy Loven~ Co-Author of Swept Away Quilts of Love Series, releasing November 2014 from Abingdon Press Follow my Facebook Author Page
Read my book reviews at Cindy Reviews Read my product review or tips and hints at Cindy’s Tips and Hints
November 1, 2014 at 11:22 pm
kristivaliant
Feel free to copy a short little except to your blog as long as you link back to the original post. Typically, blog post attribution follows the same rules as formal writing attributions.
November 1, 2014 at 10:38 am
Sarah Frances Hardy
This is adorbs!!! And, oh my goodness Kristi … you hung out with Danielle Steele in Paris??!!?
November 1, 2014 at 11:23 pm
kristivaliant
It was surreal! Danielle is super friendly and so sweet.
November 1, 2014 at 10:44 am
danielledufayet
Great post! Writers must know how to stretch, exaggerate and embellish the truth to make our stories and characters come alive!
November 1, 2014 at 10:45 am
Bonnie
This did bring back memories of when I was young and my sister, neighbour and I used to dress up our dogs in our yards. One time we even married my dog to my neighbours dog. I love Paris and this book looks super adorable.
November 1, 2014 at 10:46 am
Judy Cox
Adorable illustrations!
November 1, 2014 at 10:47 am
hollyruppel
Kristi, thanks for the reminder to twist the truth a bit in fiction!
November 1, 2014 at 10:49 am
Karen
Thank you, thank you. I needed to hear this wisdom today.
November 1, 2014 at 10:49 am
beckylevine
Good reminder that the ideas are just start points. Thanks for the great post.
November 1, 2014 at 10:50 am
KatyD
What a fun cover! Congrats!
November 1, 2014 at 10:51 am
Susan White
Thank you, Kristi, for a great start! Your post sparked today’s idea!!! You’ve pushed my fun factor button!
November 1, 2014 at 10:51 am
Claire Lordon (@ClaireLordon)
Great idea to take your ideas from real life but not be afraid to stray from them to make the story better.
November 1, 2014 at 10:52 am
kateywrites
My husband always tells me that I’m a terrible liar – and I tell him I can’t SAY a lie, but I can write one like no one else! I’ll point him back to this post when he tells me that picture books don’t count!
November 1, 2014 at 10:52 am
Lori Alexander
Great reminder that the true event is just the starting point. The fun is in the dressing it up.
November 1, 2014 at 10:52 am
mona861
I love this! It’s hard to lie when you’re close to something. Maybe put on a blindfold, spin 3 times and try to sit the penguin on the potty!!! Whoops, that’s what happens when you shake things up!!! Thank you
November 1, 2014 at 10:54 am
Sydney O'Neill
You told some beautiful lies about Minnie. She’s adorable!
November 1, 2014 at 11:05 am
Beth Blee
Yes, I am ready to “jump in.” I thought of my first idea before getting out of bed. Thanks for your idea and encouragement.
November 1, 2014 at 11:05 am
Kathryn Ault Noble
Love the delicious illustrations! Suddenly my brain is zipping. . . Remembering childhood events that could use a bit of creative lying. Just think how interesting my childhood can become, and when I’m old, I won’t know the difference! My youngest was a master of creative storytelling, much to the dismay of his teachers. Your mother did WHAT to your homework?! Thanks for a great start to PiBoIdMo 2014, Kristi.
November 1, 2014 at 11:24 pm
kristivaliant
I love that, “when I’m old, I won’t know the difference!”
November 1, 2014 at 11:05 am
kathalsey
Kristi, what fun pics of Minnie! And you are a CCAD alum, hoot. I lived in C’bus for 12 years. Great libraries and peeps. I have a tendency to want to preserve my memories of beloved animals through my stories and hav dot force myself to “lie” sometimes. TY for this advice.
November 1, 2014 at 11:07 am
The Styling Librarian
Thank you, great reminders and ideas!
November 1, 2014 at 11:09 am
Maria Oka
I have absolutely tried to keep my characters too true to life, and it never turns out very well. Love this post. Wonderful ideas.
November 1, 2014 at 11:10 am
Lori Dubbin
“Pretty Minnie,” pretty illustrations, and being a pretty little liar 😉 — thanks for your excellent advice. Can’t wait to read about Minnie!
November 1, 2014 at 11:11 am
Shena Ashcraft
Lying?! (Gasp!) Great insights; thanks!
November 1, 2014 at 11:11 am
Dana Murphy
This is such a great post! I feel like you just gave me permission to be creative. I am protective of my characters that are based on my daughters, but I didn’t realize it until just now! Thank you. Also, a great post to share with kids who are writing stories!
November 1, 2014 at 11:13 am
Marilyn Recknor
Lying in a good way is an idea in itself. Hmm…. The illustrations are a delight! I’ve always wanted to turn my cats into characters! Thanks, Kristi!
November 1, 2014 at 11:14 am
Heidi Yates
Great ideas! Thank you Kristi. 🙂
November 1, 2014 at 11:17 am
Debbie Smart
Thanks for the great post to kick off PiBoIdMo! Appreciate the advice. Love your illustrations!
November 1, 2014 at 11:18 am
Shirley Menendez
Thanks for your insights about keeping the animal story true to life. I am currently writing an animal story and need to add more interest by deviating from reality. Great post. Love your illustrations.
November 1, 2014 at 11:20 am
dianneyoung65
And we’re off! Thanks for the great post to get us started.
November 1, 2014 at 11:22 am
Carrie O'Neill
I pledge to not go easy on my characters! Great advice for pushing the story beyond the original idea. Thanks!
November 1, 2014 at 11:22 am
Robyn Campbell
Great tips and while I was reading I remembered a tradition my dad and I had. It can be a great picture book. I’d forgotten about it until this very moment. THANK YOU!! Your art is wonderful.
November 1, 2014 at 11:24 am
jan godown annino/bookseedstudio
Dear Tara & Kristi,
Sage advice! I have 2 writing projects I realize now that I’ve hurt by too-closely following the “real” people’s lives, rather than my characters. This inspires me to pull them off the shelf & get back into the fiction.
Also a bit of fan fun, but when reading about Cora & her Mom, following the stuffed animals thru Cora’s house in CORA COOKS PANCIT, is fun for the kiddos in school to keep their eyes on one particular animal & look for it to appear.. Especially I look look for the purple hippo; we visit a purple-ish hippo at a zoo here in Florida.
Brava! about MINNIE IN PARIS. I’ll look for it.
Jan
November 1, 2014 at 11:28 pm
kristivaliant
I had lots of fun adding that dog and his stuffed animal toys into CORA COOKS PANCIT, and it’s great to hear kids’ reactions to them!
November 1, 2014 at 11:24 am
LovableLobo
Ooh la la, is right! Danielle Steele? C’est magnifique … both your collaboration and your post, Kristi!
November 1, 2014 at 11:34 am
Andrea
Thanks for reminding me to stretch beyond real events and to use my imagination more! Great tips!
November 1, 2014 at 11:39 am
Doreen E. Lepore
Great beginning to 2014 PiBoIdMo! Thanks Kristi and Tara!
November 1, 2014 at 11:41 am
Aimee Bissonette
Gorgeous illustrations in Pretty Minnie!
November 1, 2014 at 11:42 am
Stephanie Geckle (@SPGeckle)
“Don’t go easy on your characters” is something I REALLY needed to hear today. THANK YOU!
November 1, 2014 at 11:46 am
apserione
If I could turn the page/In time then I’d rearrange/Just a day or two
Tell me lies, tell me lies/Tell me sweet little lies/… You see?, You tell something and the mind just hops somewhere else. HOPPITY, HOPPITY, HOP. (a big hug).
November 1, 2014 at 11:47 am
Pam Miller
Hi Kristi, You’ve said it best. I felt protective of my character (my child) too. Congratulations on your booming career. I thought your illustrations at Words in the Woods (SCBWI) were fantastic. But, Minnie, Paris, the expressions, the shoes – WOW!
November 1, 2014 at 11:50 am
Cindy
No kidding….I just saw your book yesterday at work (a library) and said what cute illustrations!
November 1, 2014 at 11:51 am
Jay Polowski
Great advice that I must take to heart as I am dealing with that very tendency to make the character based on family a little too perfect. Thanks again. Love your illustrations…
November 1, 2014 at 11:52 am
pearlz
After I read this post I thought about the pets our children have had, and their personalities. I also thought of accidental pets, that adopt you and never go home. Ideas for books born!
November 1, 2014 at 11:52 am
Janny J Johnson
And we’ve officially begun… in Paris! Hurrah!
November 1, 2014 at 11:54 am
Sherry Walz
Kristi, thanks for permission to daydream about the past, searching for memories to spark a new story. I love your illustrations from Pretty Minnie in Paris.
November 1, 2014 at 11:55 am
kroberts24
Great advice! Beautiful illustrations 🙂
November 1, 2014 at 11:55 am
Christy Mihaly
There are good ideas here (maybe a mismatched cat/dog pair) and I’m psyched for PiBoIdMo. Thanks for the inspiration.
November 1, 2014 at 11:58 am
Marcy P.
Kristi, I LOVE the cover art!!!! And I’m sure I’ll love every page after. I don’t live too far from Paris… so I’m excited about that bit for my kids too. Thanks for kicking us off today. FANTABULOUS!
November 1, 2014 at 12:01 pm
JEN Garrett
Great way to start the month! I had to pause in the middle of the post, because while reading it, I got my first official PiBoIdMo idea. Not a post-dated idea that I would feel guilty about using… An original idea that I know will go somewhere someday. 🙂
November 1, 2014 at 12:01 pm
Michele Norman
Your advice is terrific and your illustrations brilliant. Thank you for sharing both. Minnie in the snow suit made me laugh out loud remembering the day my then toddler daughter capsized in her winter wear. 🙂
November 1, 2014 at 12:05 pm
Penny Parker Klostermann
Love the illustrations! And as far as the lying. Kristi, I’m soooo ready to jump in. My first thought was “I love to lie!” And the next thing I knew, I was singing a Kristi-inspired version of Uncle Albert’s song, “I Love to Laugh”, from Mary Poppins! Now I will be singing it all day. Maybe everyone should join in!
♫♪♫♪♫♪♫♪♫♪♫♪♫♪♫♪♫♪♫♪
I love to lie
Big and bold and clear
I love to lie
It’s getting worse ev’ry year
The more I lie
The more I fill with glee
And the more the glee
The more I’m a merrier me!
♫♪♫♪♫♪♫♪♫♪♫♪♫♪♫♪♫♪♫♪
Thanks for the inspiration on this first day of PiBoIdMo, Kristi!
November 1, 2014 at 1:39 pm
Karen Lawler
Penny,
This song cracked me up THANKS!!
November 1, 2014 at 11:30 pm
kristivaliant
Ha!
November 1, 2014 at 12:07 pm
Sandy Powell
Kristi,
What beautiful illustrations! They almost seem Paris”y” to me. Thank you for the great advice. I think I am able to have a balance of good and mischievous in my characters. Never too perfect. Although, I seem to lean more towards mischievous.
November 1, 2014 at 12:08 pm
Hey, Jim Hill!
A great start, and a equally excellent craft tip. Here we go PiBoIdMo!
November 1, 2014 at 12:13 pm
tpierce
Fantastic post! This is a great reminder for writers. Thanks, Kristi.
November 1, 2014 at 12:13 pm
Dorothy Wiese
Hi, Kristi, I met you at Words in the Woods and was privileged to see your wonderful illustrations for Pretty Minnie in Paris. I’m glad it’s in print, and I will buy one for me and others for birthday and Christmas gifts. I can’t wait!! Thanks for your encouraging words.
November 1, 2014 at 12:13 pm
marcimcadam
What timely advice–thanks, Kristi 🙂
November 1, 2014 at 12:14 pm
Beth Barrett
Thanks for your insights and prompts, Kristi! I’m already generating new writing ideas!
November 1, 2014 at 12:19 pm
Donna L. Sadd
Great idea about making a list to spring from, Kristi. Your illustrations for Pretty Minnie in Paris are Fabulous! :0)
November 1, 2014 at 12:19 pm
Sharalyn A. Edgeberg
A stylish little pup. Great illustrations! & a famous author! Way to go! Thanks for your ideas.
November 1, 2014 at 12:20 pm
Sheri Roloff
Great tips! And I love the retro quality of your illustrations in Pretty Mini in Paris. Super cool stuff. Thanks!
November 1, 2014 at 12:30 pm
viji
Very good point for me to take home. I have a hard time divorcing myself from the real story. But I have now finally realize that it’s not that difficult to do. Thank you!
November 1, 2014 at 12:36 pm
Sharalyn A. Edgeberg
Yes, I agree viii!
November 1, 2014 at 12:31 pm
Matt Tesoriero
A agree with you Kristi. Our lives are an open book for ideas! Happy writing everyone.
November 1, 2014 at 12:33 pm
Janet Smart
Terrific advice. I’ve written stories based on my ancestors. 90% of it is made up, but based on what I knew about them. Congratulations on your books!
November 1, 2014 at 12:39 pm
Carol Federoff
” Sometimes we get so stuck on basing our manuscript on a real-life experience or a sweet person or animal we love, that we’re preventing our manuscript from becoming a fully realized, great book.” I need to copy and paste this onto a notecard and clip it to my manuscript!!! I KNOW that’s what’s holding back one, if not several, of my stories!
Thank you Kristi! I’ve started my list!
November 1, 2014 at 12:44 pm
Kim Chaffree
I totally needed to see this post today! I am often inspired by my own two kids for stories and being given permission to “lie” to make the story better give me the freedom to take the characters that may be based on my daughter or son and make them unique to the book. I also love the thought about writing down everything thing that emotionally strikes you. Is there an app for that? Thinking I may have something here!
November 1, 2014 at 12:46 pm
Derek Trimmer
You caught me!! I may have saved an idea for this month…
November 1, 2014 at 12:47 pm
Prairie Garden Girl
Kristi: The idea of beginning with real-life people, animals and experiences to create stories and then enhancing the tale to make it better, is excellent. Pretty Minnie must be a pampered pooch. Thank you for the inspiration. ~Suzy Leopold
November 1, 2014 at 12:49 pm
Virginia Kelly
How cool that Danielle Steele has a kid’s book!! It’s inspiring that leaders in adult literature have fun and make a difference in kid lit!
November 1, 2014 at 12:49 pm
rowenarae
Your illustrations for MINNIE IN PARIS are delightful! I look forward to reading the book and seeing all your illustrations. Thanks, too, for the great advice about finding inspiration in the people and animals in our lives but not being constrained by their real-life nature.
November 1, 2014 at 12:50 pm
Mary Jane Muir
Great illustrations! Thanks for this post. Already my mind is thinking up solutions for an old manuscript that got stuck in too much of real life memory. Cheers!
November 1, 2014 at 12:53 pm
bevbaird
Great start to PiBoIdMo! Great inspiration! Love your illustrations.
November 1, 2014 at 12:58 pm
Sylvia Liu
Great post, and Pretty Minnie in Paris looks awesome.
November 1, 2014 at 12:58 pm
Susanne
Started my list? Check.
Found a great idea? Check. Asking yourself, “What would make this story even better?”
November 1, 2014 at 1:00 pm
Pat
Perfect advice for me today, thank you!
November 1, 2014 at 1:03 pm
Ali Pichardo
Thanks Kristi Valliant. I look forward to buyiing Pretty Mini in Paris. I love your advice about using real experiences to create stories. I have to remember that my characters are just characters not family. I have an idea for a story from my childhood. Thanks again, you are starting PiBoIdMo off well!
November 1, 2014 at 1:08 pm
Sandy Jones
Thanks for the great advice! Wish my australian shepherd would wear shoes.
November 1, 2014 at 1:12 pm
Sandy Perlic
Oh my goodness – your illustrations in the Minnie story are to die for! Love them! And thanks for the advice about using experiences from our lives.
November 1, 2014 at 1:14 pm
Priya
Getting stuck and not expanding my story, happens when I use something from reality. Thanks for the advice
November 1, 2014 at 1:17 pm
Jessica @ Play Trains!
Great advice! I have a manuscript that people think is adorable, but not as satisfying as it could be, and I think it’s because I stuck too closely to the plot of the bedtime story I used to tell my son. (He’s not a fan of conflict unless it involves a light saber battle!)
November 1, 2014 at 1:27 pm
Shirley Johnson
Enjoyed this post, really helped in thinking about characters. Good advice and a great beginning.
November 1, 2014 at 1:28 pm
jdewdropsofink
I love Cora Cooks Pancit! And those other illustrations are so fun. Thanks for the tips. I need to get cracking.
November 1, 2014 at 1:33 pm
LeslieG
Ooh la la– how cool that you got to visit Minnie in Paris! Et comme Minnie est charmante! Merci, Kristi :0)
November 1, 2014 at 1:34 pm
thestoryladyva
I so needed to hear this. I’m working on a story inspired by some neighborhood kids, and I’ve been struggling with it. Now I think I know why… I’m trying to stay “true” to them and instead I should be lying a little. Ha ha!
November 1, 2014 at 1:34 pm
Linda Thompson
Great start to the month, thank you!
November 1, 2014 at 1:36 pm
Karen Lawler
I am soooooooooooo guilty of sticking to my original idea and not deviating. Thanks for reminding me of the importance of looking at things in a different light. Lies or no lies. 🙂
November 1, 2014 at 2:57 pm
katmaz2012
I am too, Karen!
November 1, 2014 at 1:45 pm
Marty McCormick
Thank you, Kristi. What perfectly gorgeous illustrations!!!! My granddaughters will love this book, I can tell. Your point is important, that most real-life ideas or situations require some fine-tuning to make them story material. Harder to do than it sounds 😉 Marty McCormick
November 1, 2014 at 1:52 pm
Sonja Anderson
Great advice, and a wonderful word for the first day. It’s freeing to think about picture books this way. Thanks!
November 1, 2014 at 1:53 pm
cedricgliane
Fact is, I try to keep the distance between my lies and my truths to a hair. Very challenging if you’re a dreamer.
November 1, 2014 at 2:02 pm
Angela Turner
Love your artwork! Thanks for the great advice today.
November 1, 2014 at 2:03 pm
Cassandra Federman
Your artwork is beautiful! Great flow and movement and personality to all the characters. So inspiring!
November 1, 2014 at 2:04 pm
Mary Zychowicz
I love your illustrations! Thanks for the great advice.
November 1, 2014 at 2:10 pm
Rachel H
Great advice, Kristi. It isn’t easy changing a real life experience to make it work as a PB story, but thinking of those experiences as inspiration is a great tip. Love the examples of your daughter and Danielle’s dog.
November 1, 2014 at 2:12 pm
Buffy Silverman
Love your advice, “writing fiction is lying in a good way.” Congratulations on the new book!
November 1, 2014 at 2:18 pm
Michelle O'Hara Levin
Great advice! Thanks!
November 1, 2014 at 2:29 pm
Juliana Lee
Thanks for the post Kristi! I loved Penguin Cha-Cha and will be looking for Pretty Minnie too.
November 1, 2014 at 2:38 pm
mwebb32
Love the advice! I would love to read Pretty Minnie!
November 1, 2014 at 2:38 pm
Chelsea Elizabeth Coutarel
Thank you so much, Kristi! Great advice! I think it is hard sometimes for us writers to let go of the details of actual events enough to let them develop into new stories. Ironically when we let those details go is when they tend to take on a life of their own and grow into something bigger!
Happy writing!
November 1, 2014 at 2:41 pm
Hélène Sabourin
This is so true, trying to make too much sense tends to limit the imagination. Thank you for the input
November 1, 2014 at 2:42 pm
Telaina Muir
So fun, and great info. Thanks!
November 1, 2014 at 2:45 pm
Vicki Wilke
Thank you Kristi – loved the two-year old growling story! Good insight into letting go of “truth”.
November 1, 2014 at 2:45 pm
Joan Kassmann
My first idea was right in front of my nose and I did not realize it til I read your post! Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!!!
November 1, 2014 at 2:56 pm
katmaz2012
Great advice! This should help “unstuck” a manuscript I have been working on for a long time. Thanks!
November 1, 2014 at 3:01 pm
Joyce Tucker
Thank you for great suggestions! I have been protecting many of the ideas, people, and pets as I have been pondering ideas. Valuable lesson for me 🙂
November 1, 2014 at 3:02 pm
kimlynnp
Thanks for sharing Kristi. LOVE your art!!
November 1, 2014 at 3:02 pm
kpbock
Pretty Minnie looks adorable!
November 1, 2014 at 3:11 pm
Jenna Woloshyn
Considering last night was Halloween, the advice in this post was perfect. I got two ideas already. Thanks!
November 1, 2014 at 3:15 pm
lmconnors
Timely reminders! Thanks!
Lisa Connors
November 1, 2014 at 3:18 pm
Susie Sawyer
First of all, I LOVE your illustrations for “Minnie”! You’ve given some great tips on using daily life situations as inspiration, but allowing yourself to twist it to make it better pb fodder. 🙂
November 1, 2014 at 3:19 pm
Michelle Kogan Illustration, Painting & Writing
Hi Kristi, What a great post, chock full of info for us, thanks! What really hit home for me was your info on taking an idea from childhood/real life experience and using this as a point of departure, how true. Many thanks to you and to Tara for hosting Kristi!
November 1, 2014 at 3:34 pm
iamccmonroe
Love this post! Day one and I’ve got two ideas already! Two PRETTY GOOD ideas too! Thanks for the inspiration!
November 1, 2014 at 3:35 pm
alikotanko
Thanks for the new story generating ideas! It is always difficult for me to veer away from real life. I am working on it 🙂
November 1, 2014 at 3:44 pm
Patricia Toht
Time to start mining those memories! Thanks, Kristi.
November 1, 2014 at 3:55 pm
writeknit
It is hard to make your darlings cry and I am gearing up for that challenge! 🙂
November 1, 2014 at 4:05 pm
kjfoote
Wonderful advice! It’s something that makes sense but that I have never thought of. Thanks for the great post!!
November 1, 2014 at 4:23 pm
Louann Brown
Thanks for your great post and your adorable illustrations. I’m making notes now on a few of our memorable moments!
November 1, 2014 at 4:27 pm
John Strong
Great advice! Thanks! 🙂
November 1, 2014 at 4:28 pm
Melanie Ellsworth
Kristi, Excellent tip! I am going to mine a few of those saved e-mails and journal entries I wrote about my daughter’s antics. Thank you for your beautiful illustrations in The Goodbye Cancer Garden – we love that story.
November 1, 2014 at 4:28 pm
desirae1987
I love using experiences from my own life in my stories. I’m new to picture books, but I feel that some of my best short stories have come from events in my life that I’ve mined and then tweaked into something magical. Great post!
November 1, 2014 at 4:31 pm
Sarah Kilfoil
Thanks for the reminder about mining life’s true stories for writing inspiration. Thanks also for the permission to “lie in a good way!”
November 1, 2014 at 4:39 pm
Isabelle Barth
I really enjoy the idea of using real life people and change them. In fact they become characters and are not the one you know anymore. Kristi, you really inspired me for my first day on my first PiDoIdMo. Many thanks to Tara and yourself
November 1, 2014 at 4:46 pm
Beth Gallagher
I’m a fan of “imaginizing” real life! 🙂 Making it a bit more creative with every chance I get. Thank you for the great inspiration on our first day of PiBoIdMo! I can’t wait to get Pretty Minnie in Paris for my little one.
November 1, 2014 at 4:50 pm
byjuliekolb
It is always helpful to know how others work through the writing process. I don’t always realize when I back myself into a corner with a ‘rule’ that I set for myself.
November 1, 2014 at 4:50 pm
Cecilia
I have a bit of a problem changing the facts in real life situations so this was a good post for me to see. Remembering the story characters are NOT the real people will be a helpful thing to keep in mind.Thank you. Your art work is delightful, thank you for sharing with us.
November 1, 2014 at 4:53 pm
Melanie Lucero
Thank you for the important reminder that it’s OK to change up some details and not always stick to the truth of how things are in real life!
November 1, 2014 at 5:06 pm
Lill Pluta
Aww, what a cute book! And good advice to boot!
November 1, 2014 at 5:07 pm
laurazarrin
Great post Kristi! I love your work and can’t wait to see Pretty Minnie! You’re so right about the difficulty in using your own family/pets in a story. I find it difficult to detach the two, myself.
November 1, 2014 at 5:14 pm
Linda Baie
I like the question: “What would make a better story” after writing down the details of a real story. It’s helpful advice!
November 1, 2014 at 5:25 pm
Dani Duck
Great advice! I need to start writing down these funny moments. I’ve already started writing down some of the funny things my 3 year old (David) says (or has said). Also need to find time today to do today’s prompt!
November 1, 2014 at 5:32 pm
Stephan Stuecklin
Thanks, Kristi – I need to take your advice to heart. Many of my ideas are inspired by real life, but lack story. Is it okay to save your advice for December, when I flesh out the ideas? 😉
November 1, 2014 at 5:35 pm
gabisnyder
Great advice! I need to push myself to stray from what really happened when using real life to generate fiction.
November 1, 2014 at 5:37 pm
Teresa Daffern
Such great advice Kristi. Thank you for this. I often struggle with the issue of how much reality to retain from a certain inspiring moment, so this confirms what I already felt; that the story can diverge as much as it needs to.
November 1, 2014 at 5:38 pm
natalie15
I totally fell into the, “tell the truth” trap when I wrote a story about my great grandmother. Finally, two years later, the story is so much different but so much better. Glad I’m not the only writer who fights honesty!
November 1, 2014 at 5:44 pm
lbouck09
Thank you for the great advice! Using real life events and emotions could open up ALL KINDS of crazy picture book ideas for me! Lol
November 1, 2014 at 5:44 pm
Gloria Amescua
It is hard to move away from the true event, but what you said is so necessary.
November 1, 2014 at 5:50 pm
Mary McClellan
I started my lists. Great idea. I was (pleasantly) surprised to hear Kristi went to CCAD! (I live in Columbus.) Thanks for this post!
November 1, 2014 at 5:50 pm
Lorraine Donohue Bonzelet
Love the Pretty Minnie in Paris website! Good advice and thanks for the permission to ‘lie’
November 1, 2014 at 5:51 pm
Jessica S
I love picture books based on real events, people, or animals. I’ve been wanting to write one about two of my past dogs for ages now
November 1, 2014 at 5:52 pm
katiemillsgiorgio
Such great reminders in today’s post. Thanks for sharing! And love your illustrations!
November 1, 2014 at 5:59 pm
Arlene Bolton
This is an encouraging idea to write with ideas from real events. I had always thought my childhood was not story-worthy, but now I can see the path to how it could be. Thanks!
November 1, 2014 at 6:01 pm
lidia
Great post and wonderful illustrations! I’m also excited to discover the book you mentioned, Cora Cooks Pancit. My husband is Filipino and our lil one will love to read that with his “Lola” 🙂
November 1, 2014 at 6:02 pm
Dawn Young
Thank you Kristi! One of my daughters is quite the embellisher – I’ll be sure to follow her lead! The new book is beautiful!
November 1, 2014 at 6:10 pm
Jodi Moore
As my one son likes to say, “it’s not a lie, it’s an equivocation.” 😉 Thanks for the inspiring post! 🙂
November 1, 2014 at 6:10 pm
Elizabeth Saba
Thank you Kristi. I enjoyed your post and I love signed picture books!
November 1, 2014 at 6:16 pm
Sadee Schilling
GAH, Kristi! Your Pretty Minnie illustrations look GORGEOUS! Wonderful post!
November 1, 2014 at 6:31 pm
Dianne Burch
Great information and specifically for me. Most of my stories are centered around my fur kids. Absolutely love your illustrations!!!
November 1, 2014 at 6:35 pm
supermario6
Your illustrations for this book look gorgeous. Can’t wait to see the entire book!
November 1, 2014 at 6:43 pm
Kelly Ramsdell Fineman
First, I loved the art from Pretty Minnie. Second, I loved the suggestions – and the advice not to protect your characters, which dovetails with advice read just the other day on Advice to Writers!
November 1, 2014 at 6:52 pm
Carol Nelson
Great advice! The snatches of conversations I overhear coming out of the mouths of my grandchildren always need a bit more to become a story, but they are great starting points.
November 1, 2014 at 6:56 pm
Heather Kelso
Thank you for the idea about a list of funny memories, great inspiration to me on this first day. I enjoyed your illustrations as well.
November 1, 2014 at 6:58 pm
holisticarchitect
Ambre Leffler must be out of her mind to take on one more thing in November…but she’s looking forward to this process!
November 1, 2014 at 6:59 pm
Audrey
Sometimes it’s hard to take a real event and morph it into fiction because your head is so wrapped around the details of the real event. Time and distance from the actual event helps- Thanks for the post.
November 1, 2014 at 7:02 pm
Laurie L Young
Love the illustrations, and the advice. So good to remember that your story isn’t real life.
November 1, 2014 at 7:03 pm
Nancy Ramsey
Great suggestions! Thank you!
November 1, 2014 at 7:07 pm
Doris Stone
Thank you, Kristi. For the inspirational post. I can’t wait to read, “Pretty Minnie in Paris” to my pretty chihuahua, Petunia.
November 1, 2014 at 11:41 pm
kristivaliant
A story of someone reading to pets is a great story starter 🙂
November 1, 2014 at 7:10 pm
Aimee Isaac
I have a difficult time letting go of the real event. Thank you for the nudge!
November 1, 2014 at 7:13 pm
Klmcmorranmaus
Thank you for reminding me of “lying my way to the truth.”
November 1, 2014 at 7:23 pm
Andria
Here’s to twisting the truth.
November 1, 2014 at 7:27 pm
Elizabeth Lim
What great ideas, there’s a reason I keep telling those stories!
November 1, 2014 at 7:28 pm
angelapadron
Such great ideas – thank you for the post!
November 1, 2014 at 7:32 pm
Joanne Toft
Love the thought about being to nice to your characters. I also like the modeling of writing ideas down and then just using a little bit to create your story. I good lesson to teach students as they write as well. Thanks!
November 1, 2014 at 7:55 pm
Lauri Fortino
My real dog Java inspires me every day. He is such a character. But he doesn’t like to be dressed up either. It took four years just to get him used to his raincoat.
November 1, 2014 at 7:57 pm
Meghan Daniels
It’s true. I am writing a story based on a real event and I want the truth to be in there but I’ve come to realize I need to make up the background to get to the true part so there is an actual plot. Thanks for posting this!
November 1, 2014 at 7:58 pm
Bethany Roberts
Love your illustrations! And thanks for the list ideas… That should really help boost everyone’s creativity 🙂
November 1, 2014 at 8:00 pm
Sue Matzke
What a fun prompt to start with!
November 1, 2014 at 8:09 pm
Stacy S. Jensen
After reading this, I realize I should write down a few Halloween antics. My kiddo was very serious.
November 1, 2014 at 8:10 pm
Heather Pierce Stigall
Just your mention of the yoga instructor’s post on facebook triggered an idea! Thanks for the tips!
November 1, 2014 at 8:10 pm
Julie Murphy
I love to look back on entries in my diary from when my daughter was very little. Kids say the funniest (and most inspiring) things!
November 1, 2014 at 8:23 pm
Jill Siegel
Excellent points! Thank you Kristi! (And, lovely illustrations!) 🙂
November 1, 2014 at 8:34 pm
Deborah Patz
Inspiring how much you can modify reality to create good fiction. Thx!
November 1, 2014 at 8:34 pm
Anne Neidinger
Tweaking real life is more fun! Thank you for the reminder…sometimes I do get so attached to a character that may be based on real life that I’m afraid to let that character become even more special on the pages.
November 1, 2014 at 8:39 pm
Genevieve Petrillo
Super fun info about using a real life experience in picture book fiction. Lying! Yay! I love lying. This is perfect. (I’m not lying.)
November 1, 2014 at 8:44 pm
seschipper
Thank You , Thank You! I love reading the blogs and comments that follow! Fibbing for a good cause is fun!!!!
November 1, 2014 at 8:47 pm
Mary Worley
“Lying in a good way” reminds me of a student who said “telling stories” instead of lying.
November 1, 2014 at 8:51 pm
Maria Marshall
I just read this book at the bookstore, yesterday. It is amazing, and freeing in a remarkableway, to know that Minnie’s real personality is starkly different, Your advice to let the characters grow is very helpful. Thank you!
November 1, 2014 at 8:54 pm
Robin Bailey
Thanks for the inspiration! -Robin Bailey
November 1, 2014 at 8:57 pm
Julene Kinser
Thanks for addressing 2 definite challenges for me: keeping stories too real and being too nice to characters. The ongoing list is a great suggestion. Thanks, Kristi.
November 1, 2014 at 9:08 pm
marciecolleen
To embellish is to be a storyteller. Thank you for the reminder.
November 1, 2014 at 9:12 pm
jshaklan
Thanks for the great advice about not being too married to the facts and instead using them as a leaping off point!
November 1, 2014 at 9:21 pm
Maria Bostian
What a great way to start off PiBoIdMo! Thanks for the inspiration. I’ve made several notes.
November 1, 2014 at 9:22 pm
cindyjohnson2013
Already copied your ideas for mining memories for story ideas! Thanks!
November 1, 2014 at 9:23 pm
stephseclecticinterests
Love, love, love your illustrations. Plus, I wanted to thank you for the great suggestions on where to find inspiration. Very good stuff!
November 1, 2014 at 9:37 pm
Kaye Baillie
Kristi you’ve really helped me out with this post. Thank you. And your latest book looks just beautiful.
November 1, 2014 at 9:39 pm
Mary Warth
Thanks for the great reminder to keep a list of the funny moments in life!
November 1, 2014 at 10:01 pm
girlwrites29
Thanks for the inspiration! 3 fun ideas created today For my PiBoIdMo work book:)
November 1, 2014 at 10:06 pm
Jenifer McNamara
Interesting Danielle Steele the romance novelist wrote a PB. Yes great idea to take your story as far a it will go.
November 1, 2014 at 10:20 pm
lymartinez
It’s “lying in a good way”, yes! It makes me think of a landscape painter friend that says, “Why just paint that right there when I can make it better?” And he does.
November 1, 2014 at 10:20 pm
Kathleen Buckley
Love that fiction allows us to stretch the truth a bit and make our stories that much better! Great post and can’t wait to read/see some of your work!
November 1, 2014 at 10:20 pm
Karen Calloway
Thanks for the reminder that good PB stories are full of magic!
November 1, 2014 at 10:29 pm
McCourt
Leaving for Paris this week! I’ve been reading all kinds of Paris books – this one looks so much fun. Thanks for sharing such great advice.
November 1, 2014 at 10:36 pm
Nicole Popel
Reading this post gave me several ideas for possible picture books, Kristi. Thank you for the reminder about using a real event as the “starter seed” for a picture book. If I should win the free book, please gift the book to the Little Free Library in Walnut, CA. I have a LFL in my front yard, and live within walking distance of a K-8 school. Sharing books with others gives me much joy.
November 1, 2014 at 10:43 pm
Joanne Roberts
Congratulations, Kristi. Thanks, Tara. “We get so stuck . . . we’re preventing our manuscript from becoming . . . fully realized.” Can’t wait to share this tidbit with my fellow participants at a writers’ workshop tomorrow!
November 1, 2014 at 10:59 pm
Leah Coleman
I tend to write as things are; here’s hoping “lying in a good way” pushes my storytelling!
November 1, 2014 at 11:02 pm
angiekarcher
I’m so happy to get started! My notebook is ready and the ideas are flowing. Thx Kristi for reminding us to take the memorable moments in life and use them for inspiration! I love your illustrations in Pretty Minnie!
November 1, 2014 at 11:05 pm
bluerabbit
Great hints and inspiration! Today I’ve been brainstorming character traits of kids our daughter knew when she was in school as starting places for stories. I agree. Real life is the best starting place, as long as you don’t tie yourself to it.
November 1, 2014 at 11:15 pm
Lynnor Bontigao
As a Filipino living in the US but born in the Philippines, it was wonderful hearing about the book “Cora Cooks Pancit”. There’s not enough Filipino cultural books out there. The best part is it incorporates a staple dish to any celebration, the humble pancit!! Thank you for beautifully illustrating that book! This new one of your is adorable!! Congrats!
November 1, 2014 at 11:47 pm
kristivaliant
The pancit recipe in the CORA book is the author’s grandmother’s recipe and so delicious! I was honored to illustrate it.
November 1, 2014 at 11:20 pm
Kristen Yakubisin
Thank you for the inspiration to try something different
November 1, 2014 at 11:37 pm
Shannon Delany
I love the sample illustration including the adults–they look like fashion plates in a way that is perfect for a tale set in Paris.
November 1, 2014 at 11:38 pm
Sue Frye
Great inspiration, I can’t wait to try these ideas!
November 1, 2014 at 11:40 pm
Jenny Seiger
Thank you for this post! I need to work on my “lying in a good way”!
November 2, 2014 at 12:06 am
Elizabeth McBride
This is a great collection of story-generating techniques! It is so easy to look outside of our own experiences for story ideas, that we forget we might be carrying some already! Thank you 🙂
November 2, 2014 at 12:15 am
laura516
Cute! Great insight.
November 2, 2014 at 12:24 am
Ashley Bankhead
Thanks for reminding us to stay true to our characters, and not try to write them exactly like their real- life inspirations. Fiction really is lying in a good way. 🙂
November 2, 2014 at 12:27 am
Pat Miller
Real life incidents + imaginative improvements = the secret to mining memories and daily life for parts that could become pizzazz! Thanks, Kristi, for the inspiration.
November 2, 2014 at 12:54 am
Carol Gordon Ekster
Kristi, the cover for Pretty Mini in Paris is eye-catching and sensational! Thanks for kicking off day 1 of Piboidmo 2014!
November 2, 2014 at 12:58 am
melsul09
I never thought about not going easy on your characters. In real life, we would not let kids have it super easy. My wheels are turning!
November 2, 2014 at 1:03 am
Debbie Austin
Thanks, Kristi! I’m going to mine for some real-life incidents that I can creatively tweak into a picture book idea. Your book cover is gorgeous!
November 2, 2014 at 1:09 am
Jamie Deenihan
I love the idea of turning memories into manuscripts and not going easy on our characters as mentioned by other members. Great post!
November 2, 2014 at 1:28 am
Author Ashley Howland
Thanks for the post Kristi, some ideas forming here. My dogs are pretty good at providing me with material.
November 2, 2014 at 1:29 am
Debbie Mickelson
This is great insight. Thanks.
November 2, 2014 at 1:39 am
Linda Moore
Good idea to keep a list. Even if the idea doesn’t strike at the moment, it may at any time later!
November 2, 2014 at 2:06 am
tanjabauerle
Thank you for the great pointer. I am so very lucky because with two girls and a backyard filled with animals I have lots of inspiration to draw my story ideas from. Love the idea of taking actual people or events that we know to build characters and stories around. Thank you. T.
November 2, 2014 at 2:15 am
Keila Dawson
Beautiful illustrations. So true, kids say the darndest things! Their world is one huge exaggeration.
November 2, 2014 at 2:37 am
Danielle Heitmuller
Love your work! Penguin Cha-Cha is one of my favorites. Thanks for the permission to fudge the truth for the sake of the story too!
November 2, 2014 at 3:01 am
Clare Cannon
Such a wonderful post! Thank you for sharing such wonderful ideas! :0)
November 2, 2014 at 3:09 am
Mindy Alyse Weiss
Thanks so much for your helpful post, and for sharing your amazing illustrations with us. I’ve seen so many people base characters or plots on something true, and have trouble veering from it during revisions. I hope this helps a lot of writers learn to let go…so they really can explore their characters and stories.
November 2, 2014 at 3:42 am
SaDonna
Thanks for starting the month of right!
November 2, 2014 at 7:56 am
Barbara Siemen (Farm Barbie)
This is great, thank you. I have gotten caught up in too many realities with manuscripts and then trashed them. This has taught me to not let that get in the way of a good book!
November 2, 2014 at 8:37 am
Alison Hertz
Kristi, you make a great point about fictionalizing our own memories, kids, and pets. It is hard to modify those we love but will help make a better picture book. Love your illustrations, too!
November 2, 2014 at 8:38 am
Elsa
I like how this post simplifies the idea of using real inspirations to create larger than life stories. I’m currently toying with a picture book idea based on my mother-in-law but have been stuck with wanting to make it almost too real. Thanks for this.
November 2, 2014 at 8:41 am
Jessie
Kristi I was so thrilled to see you were the first guest blogger because I’ve been following you across various social media platforms for a long time! It was great to see a familiar face 😀 Love the post and thank you for the great advice!
November 2, 2014 at 9:06 am
Karen Brueggeman
What a great post and your illustrations are amazing.
November 2, 2014 at 9:21 am
Kathy Cornell Berman
Thanks for your good advice. I love your illustrations!!!
November 2, 2014 at 9:22 am
ptuck7
Very inspiring and helpful tips about using someone or something you love and not being afraid to change them or it in some way to produce a better story. I love it! Thanks. Have to check out Danielle Steel’s book too. I had no idea she wrote picture books.
November 2, 2014 at 9:43 am
angeladegroot8
A great start to PBIdMo – an idea prompt combined with excellent advice.
November 2, 2014 at 10:11 am
angeladegroot8
The perfect start to PiBoldMo – a writing prompt and excellent advice.
November 2, 2014 at 10:20 am
Sita
Great Post Kristi! I love taking inspiration from real-life experiences! ‘Writing fiction is lying in a good way’ is going to help me abundantly in making my characters seem more real -:)
November 2, 2014 at 10:22 am
Mary Ward Constantino
Love the advice about not having Mommy step in to save the day and keep things in the child’s perspective. I have been inspired by real situations and writing them down immediately is key! You never know what you might add to a story.
November 2, 2014 at 10:38 am
Stacey Shubitz
It’s like you were talking directly to me in this post. I just revised (MASSIVELY) one of my pb manuscripts because it was too didactic (i.e., mommy fixed the problem). Thanks for the reassurance that this was, in fact, the right move.
November 2, 2014 at 10:45 am
Joan Waites
Thanks, Kristi-your post just sparked my first idea. Absolutely love the illustration of the dog in the snowsuit! Looks like a terrific book for little girls.
November 2, 2014 at 10:51 am
deborahholtwilliams
I based a story on a real-life event but found I had to elaborate quite a bit. I was feeling a bit guilty until I read your post! Thanks, Kristi!
November 2, 2014 at 11:02 am
Sheri Rad
Good ideas and advice I can follow and not get stuck on one idea but try to exaggerate or embellish some story ideas.
November 2, 2014 at 11:15 am
Mishka Jaeger
Thanks for sharing so great ideas as well as some fantastically fashionable illustrations.
November 2, 2014 at 11:29 am
Jennifer Sommer
I love the artwork for this book -glittery and colorful. I am racking my brains for an equally glittery and colorful story.
November 2, 2014 at 12:21 pm
Wendy Martin Art
I’ve been so excited for this book’s release ever since you told me you were illustrating it!
November 2, 2014 at 12:41 pm
Meena
What a great way to start our PiBoIdMo journey. Writing fiction is lying in a good way. Tip to remember always. Thank you so much!
November 2, 2014 at 12:49 pm
cat jones
Thanks for your post.
I never know when inspiration will strike or where my imagination will take me. It’s a wonderful feeling.
November 2, 2014 at 1:15 pm
Aidan Cassie
Wonderful ideas – now to get back to creating some quirky, imperfect charcters.
November 2, 2014 at 1:32 pm
Laura Purdie Salas
What adorable art! I see lots of pbs for critique that are based on real pets, and almost always, the writer has those same fears you talk about. Congrats on your new book!
November 2, 2014 at 1:36 pm
Elizabeth Brown
Great post. Thank you Kristi!
November 2, 2014 at 1:48 pm
colleen kosinski
Minnie is adorable!
November 2, 2014 at 2:01 pm
Lauri Meyers
Kristi – your illustrations are adorable!
November 2, 2014 at 2:04 pm
hmmmmm
I think the battle is just being open to the moments of inspiration that may present themselves. I know that there are days when my mind is racing on other things when I’ve probably walked right by dozens…
November 2, 2014 at 3:30 pm
Katie
Yea, the day is finally here, and I missed it. Thank you for your fun post.
November 2, 2014 at 3:31 pm
trbarrett
Great frist post. Looking forward to the rest!
November 2, 2014 at 3:46 pm
Marla
My kids keep doing cute stuff that I think needs to be in a story. I guess I need to jot them down and ask what if?
November 2, 2014 at 4:25 pm
angelcat2014
I love the idea of taking real life experiences and adding a little “twist” to them. Thanks for the prompt.
November 2, 2014 at 4:44 pm
Tracy Molitors
Thanks, Kristi. I needed the reminder to go back to a few of the moments that stand out with my own kids!
November 2, 2014 at 5:14 pm
tphumiruk
Thank you for the suggestions! What a great post to get us started this month!
November 2, 2014 at 5:28 pm
thiskidreviewsbooks
Great post! AWESOME!
November 2, 2014 at 6:04 pm
donnacangelosi
I love the story of your daughter growling to get the slide! Thank you for your ideas and suggestions. Fun post!
November 2, 2014 at 6:13 pm
Nancy Furstinger
Minnie is darling! Can’t wait to read your fun book.
November 2, 2014 at 6:56 pm
Stella Jane Stauffer
A pretty little girl growling? What a humorous PB that would be for child and reader. Start writing!
November 2, 2014 at 7:43 pm
Theresa Love
Love the illustrations and thanks for the advice! I will not let my real life inspirations block the story 🙂
November 2, 2014 at 8:23 pm
Christine M. Irvin
It’s good to know we can “lie” when we’re trying to tell the “truth”!! LOL
November 2, 2014 at 8:40 pm
Lori Mozdzierz
Couldn’t help but chuckle over your daughter’s growl 😀
Kristi, your illustrations of Minnie are outstanding!
November 2, 2014 at 8:43 pm
Heather Hatch
Kristi, your character’s facial expressions…canine and child, I ‘heart’ them!
November 2, 2014 at 8:50 pm
Sheila Hausbeck
Finally, a good reason to lie!
November 2, 2014 at 8:55 pm
Romelle broas
I agree, Kristi. We can find inspiration in our own lives. This is the chance we get to stretch the truth!
November 2, 2014 at 8:55 pm
Jessica Miller-Nims
Definitely great advise. I love the “lying in a good way” part. So what if we embelish a little bit to make an event more interesting, right?
November 2, 2014 at 9:02 pm
Kelly Vavala
Pretty Minnie in Paris looks adorable!! Some wonderful advice here to follow during our challenge! Writing about real life things doesn’t mean you have to keep it “real”! Thanks for sharing!
November 2, 2014 at 9:45 pm
cantsing1
Oh, yes! Reminded of a comment a child made after an auto accident! Perfect reminder! Thanks.
November 2, 2014 at 10:03 pm
Yvonne Mes
Thank you for the tips. I like your illustrations, the one with Minnie on her back in the snowsuit is hilarious!
November 2, 2014 at 10:07 pm
SevenAcreSky
Kristi, freeing advice! I think that your lying in ‘writing’ advice bleeds over well into ‘revision’ too. The more a lie is told, the bigger and more exaggerated and more complex the lie and the situation becomes…which makes GOOD STORY and INTRIGUING CHARACTERS. Perfect advice. Thanks. I’m ready to re-lie, re-lie, re-lie on your advice.
November 2, 2014 at 10:23 pm
l8k8
Thanks for the tips on fictionalizing ‘real’ events. Pretty Minnie in Paris looks great.
November 2, 2014 at 10:55 pm
Katie Sullivan Peterson
Thank you for the first bit of inspiration on our thirty day journey. Pretty Minnie looks wonderful, congratulations!
November 2, 2014 at 11:11 pm
Rita Allmon
Thanks Kristi for giving us permission to lie… in a good way. I love the Minnie snowsuit scene.
November 2, 2014 at 11:20 pm
Jabeen
What a great idea, thank you for your tips!
November 3, 2014 at 5:29 am
Andrea Cumber
I can’t wait to try these tips. Minnie is on an adventure in my favorite city!
November 3, 2014 at 7:27 am
lindamartinandersen
Loved the comments about how different Minnie is in real life.
November 3, 2014 at 8:15 am
Andi
After fifteen years, I’m just getting back into writing. I know that even if I don’t flesh out a single character on the page, it will make my illustration skills that much better. Thanks for a great post!
November 3, 2014 at 8:25 am
Frances Brown
My goodness Kristi! If you make it this far to read my comments, well, I’ll be as impressed as I am by your wise words and the stunning illustrations! Gorgeous!
November 3, 2014 at 11:09 am
kristivaliant
I sure did make it through all the comments! I love reading them.
November 3, 2014 at 8:43 am
Emily Lim-Leh
Starting a list is a great way to start Pibo. Thanks!
November 3, 2014 at 9:24 am
Talitha Shipman
I like the idea of thinking about things that I love or loathe. Some fun ideas always emerge.
November 3, 2014 at 9:35 am
Anna Levin
Thank you for the advice Kristi!
November 3, 2014 at 9:49 am
Jacqueline
Great advice about stopping and asking: “What would make this an even better story?” Thanks for getting PiBoIdMo off to an inspiring start!
November 3, 2014 at 10:15 am
Kelly Campbell
To me, the challenge is utilizing some emotion/memory that is less than pleasant. I keep wanting to retreat to the comfortable areas, so the hill to climb will be finding a way to use that discomfort in a productive way.
November 3, 2014 at 10:54 am
Rita Zobayan
A good start to PiMoIdMo. Thanks.
November 3, 2014 at 11:12 am
Stephanie Fitzpatrick
I feel so energized to get my ideas down on paper (or, tablet)! Thanks for this!
November 3, 2014 at 11:25 am
Nadine Gamble
I always need ways to take an idea to the next level. Thanks! And Minnie is the most adorable chihuahua I’ve ever seen!
November 3, 2014 at 11:57 am
carolmunrojww
Congrats on Pretty Minnie, Kristi. Slice me off a piece of that cake. But first, let me start that fabulous thing you suggested — a list of things I adore, loathe, laugh at… THANKS for this idea!
November 3, 2014 at 12:16 pm
Becky Hohensee
Great ideas to jumpstart inspiration. Thanks for this.
November 3, 2014 at 12:37 pm
theitaliancob
Good post thanks
November 3, 2014 at 1:23 pm
Carolyn Rohrbaugh
What an adorable idea
November 3, 2014 at 1:24 pm
clarepernice
Paris and a chiuahua!! Fantastique:) I’m making my lists! Such a good way to get the ideas popping. Thanks Kristi
November 3, 2014 at 2:00 pm
Lisa McManus Lange
Love the artwork – gorgeous! Congratulations on this! Great post – so inspiring- going to find the book 🙂 Thankyou!
November 3, 2014 at 2:19 pm
laurahawking
Thank you for the pep talk, Kristi! You’re a very talented artist!
November 3, 2014 at 2:26 pm
mkokeefe
Thanks for your post today, Kristi. I love that little dog- so cute! -MK O’Keefe
November 3, 2014 at 2:48 pm
Wendy Greenley
Writing down embarrassing moments from my childhood. Not sure I could share my children’s embarrassing moments, even in fictional form. Interesting food for thought.
November 3, 2014 at 2:49 pm
Janet Halfmann
Thanks for showing us how not to get bogged down in what really happened.
November 3, 2014 at 3:26 pm
Mary Kate
Great reminder to draw on everyday life
November 3, 2014 at 3:28 pm
Sandra Lawson
Thank you for this post. Makes me start to think about situations that could make great stories.
November 3, 2014 at 3:33 pm
sardyhar
Pets of friends and my own have spawned a few finished stories. Reality is a wonderful launch pad for fiction.
November 3, 2014 at 4:06 pm
Cat
I love the picture of Minnie in a snowsuit 🙂
November 3, 2014 at 4:23 pm
januaryfae
I’m enjoying looking at everything as a possible picture book – being inspired by real kids, pets, and events – but your reminder that, in a book, these AREN’T the real thing and that I need to figure out how to make the idea into a good story, is great. Thanks!
November 3, 2014 at 4:24 pm
kmshelley
Thanks for the great ideas and reminder that real people can become wonderful fictional characters.
November 3, 2014 at 5:46 pm
Annie Cronin Romano
A wonderful start to PiBoIdMo! Thank you, Kristi!
November 3, 2014 at 6:27 pm
kathydoherty1
Kristi, such darling artwork in your new book! It shows how much you enjoy your work. Cute doggie!
November 3, 2014 at 8:58 pm
Debbie Wagenbach
Thank you for an interesting and inspiring post, Kristi.
November 3, 2014 at 9:01 pm
Linda Graden
Thank you for sharing, Kristi. You’re a wonderful artist.
November 3, 2014 at 9:04 pm
rgstones
Great post! I enjoyed Penguin Cha-Cha and can’t wait to read the others.
November 3, 2014 at 9:33 pm
Beth Consugar
I love these ideas – thanks for sharing!!
November 3, 2014 at 9:43 pm
trobinsondaly
Thanks for the great post, Kristi. I have a soon-to-be three year old and there are so many things that she does and things I witness during her play dates that inspire ideas. I keep a little notepad with me all the time, just so I can jot them down. 🙂
November 3, 2014 at 10:09 pm
Jennifer Rumberger
Great day 1 post! Can’t wait to read your new book!
November 3, 2014 at 10:58 pm
Nat Keller
Great post on using your own experiences as ideas for stories!
November 3, 2014 at 10:59 pm
Blanche Baxter
Great day 1 post! A tip to remember!
November 3, 2014 at 11:02 pm
Carrie Finison
Great advice to push our ideas further than “real life.”
November 3, 2014 at 11:37 pm
rmcg14
Great tips!
November 4, 2014 at 12:02 am
becki
“Oh! (she said, trying to catch up having just found the Lost PiBoIdMo Chronicles for not having known where to seek/find) This is all simply perfect on so many levels, and I am delighted to be here, finding inspiration and possibility!”
November 4, 2014 at 1:33 am
Rachel Anderson
Gorgeous art Kristi. You are so talented. Thank you for all the info in this post.
Rachel, from the WWMW planning team days
November 4, 2014 at 1:47 am
wendymyersart
Thanks for kicking us off on Day 1,Kristi- your art is beautiful! I’m going to check out your newest book asap.
November 4, 2014 at 5:51 am
KurlGurl
I am seriously going bananas over your art! It’s fabulous!!!! Thank you. Also great tip to keep it real to writing fiction by adding a bit of make believe!
November 4, 2014 at 8:16 am
Sheri Dillard
Great advice! Thanks, Kristi!
November 4, 2014 at 8:57 am
Victoria Thomas
Great advice! Beautiful illustrations 🙂
November 4, 2014 at 10:33 am
oceanis723
I love your art and thanks for the reminder about writing fiction. I have this trouble when writing about my kids or pets.
November 4, 2014 at 10:42 am
Christie
Your art is so colorful, vibrant and happy. Beautiful. Way to go!
November 4, 2014 at 11:27 am
Irene Branch
Love your artwork. And great advice on making lists and using them as starting points. Thank you.
November 4, 2014 at 11:35 am
Daniela Weil
thanks for the lying tip, and love your drawings.
November 4, 2014 at 12:20 pm
Rebecca E. Guzinski
Motivated with the idea of formulating a list of things I love and loathe! Time to add this to my journal before I forget.
November 4, 2014 at 12:46 pm
Erin O'Brien
Great advice to take inspiration from real life. And lists are always a good thing!
November 4, 2014 at 1:58 pm
teresa m.i. schaefer (@TMISchaefer)
Did someone say lava cake, celebratory chocolate lava cake? Count me in if there is any left. Lovely post.
November 4, 2014 at 2:09 pm
Denise Bowman
Adorable illustrations! Thank you!
November 4, 2014 at 4:20 pm
Rebecca Colby
Some great advice! I definitely won’t be going easy on my characters!
November 4, 2014 at 6:44 pm
kariail2013
Beautiful illustrations! I can’t wait to read Pretty Minnie in Paris! Thanks for the encouragement!
November 4, 2014 at 6:48 pm
NiñoCactus (Alberto Martín)
Sometimes it is difficult to lie about a real situation, but often I find myself adding fictitious information to an anecdote to make it more fun.
It is important to know that the intention is not to deceive others, but amuse them.
November 4, 2014 at 7:44 pm
Meredith Pinkstone
LOVE your illustrations and your attitude!! Thanks!
November 4, 2014 at 10:17 pm
Ann Bentley
I really appreciate you’re advice about not making the character s perfect. Thank you.
November 4, 2014 at 10:38 pm
Marge Gower
Don’t be afraid to change the way something happened. Writing fiction is lying in a good way. Sometimes we get so stuck on basing our manuscript on a real-life experience or a sweet person or animal we love, that we’re preventing our manuscript from becoming a fully realized, great book.
I love this advice. I have trouble if I don’t follow the facts or change them. It’s a great reminder that fiction is (lying in a good way.
November 5, 2014 at 12:00 am
Shawna JC Tenney
You have some great ideas here. Great post!
November 5, 2014 at 12:28 am
Anne Lei-Yeung So
I love the Paris illustrations. The colours are so vibrant.
November 5, 2014 at 10:48 am
Elizabeth Metz
This was an important lesson for me in taking one of my best ideas from last year’s PiBoIdMo to manuscript. When I first spat out my crappy first draft, I was sticking too close to real life events, and it was unwieldy and terrible. When I got okay with tweaking and leaving things out and just focusing on the FEELING of the real life events, I had a much better story. Great advice, Kristi!
November 5, 2014 at 11:24 am
Janet Bingham
An editor once said to me “It doesn’t have to be real.” Thanks for the reminder!
November 5, 2014 at 12:51 pm
Jennifer Huls
Great advice stretching the truth, a little exaggerating goes a long way. Your illustrations are inspiring makes me want to write for your talent. Good to keep in mind how one tidbit that can make it into a book and it just may be that tidbit that gives a writer the idea for the story.
November 5, 2014 at 2:57 pm
writersideup
Wow, Kristi, I LOVE that cover and your illustrations! Great post, too 🙂
November 5, 2014 at 4:12 pm
mbeaversillustration
Great post, thanks so much for sharing! Minnie is adorable… and so cool you got go to Paris to visit the real Minnie and Danielle
November 5, 2014 at 4:22 pm
Claire Vita
Thanks Kristi! Can hardly wait to read Minnie’s next adventure.
November 5, 2014 at 10:43 pm
Cathy Biggerstaff
Thanks, Kristi! Good advice and I loved getting a peek at your illustrations for Danielle Steel’s picture book.
November 5, 2014 at 11:00 pm
Tracy
Love the illustrations – beautiful! Thanks Kristi, the advice helped jumpstart some new ideas as well and added fuel to ones that had been simmering.
November 6, 2014 at 3:11 am
Kira Kia Fruit Nims
Mahalo (Thank you :)) Kristi! This advice has definitely put some bounce into my coconut. Love your illustrations.
November 6, 2014 at 1:47 pm
Shel LeDrew
Grest advice thank you!
November 6, 2014 at 10:51 pm
Tarryn Lean (@TarrynLean)
Kristi your illustrations are divine. I just took your advice and put a recent epic tantrum into a story I was trying to keep perfect, I think it works far better now, great advice.
November 7, 2014 at 2:28 pm
Laurie J. Edwards
Great advice about not being married to the way things really happened. 🙂
November 7, 2014 at 3:28 pm
Charlotte
In honor of your wonderful Minnie-in-Paris success, please enjoy some pain-au-chocolat with your coffee or tea….from me!
( It was my very favorite breakfast indulgence when I was in France a decade ago!) Congratulations and thank you for validating the act of “truth-stretching” about a character who is rooted in reality.
November 8, 2014 at 12:15 am
Kristi Valiant
Just had pain-au-chocolat for breakfast today! Mmmm…
November 8, 2014 at 12:11 pm
kerriesportfolio
Adorable!
November 10, 2014 at 9:35 am
Mark B.
What an imagination, Wow! Thank you
November 11, 2014 at 9:01 am
Cathy Breisacher
Lying in a good way…I like this idea. Thank you so much for this post.
November 11, 2014 at 9:10 pm
gasamie
I am a teacher and one of my favorite students had a period where she growled at everyone. She was a good, well-adjusted kindergartener so it wasn’t really cause for alarm. She just really wanted to be a bear, for quite a long time. I wonder if she still does.
November 12, 2014 at 4:43 pm
furfilled
Great way to start Picture Book Idea Month. Thanks for the tip!
November 14, 2014 at 11:03 am
Kelly Parker
Love list making as well. You never know what will come of it!
November 14, 2014 at 5:38 pm
winemama
Love your artwork Kristi, and it was great meeting you at the scbwi indiana retreat this spring.
November 15, 2014 at 10:35 am
DaNeil
Beautiful artwork and the advice is perfect. I realized some of my best ideas are stalling because I’m afraid of drifting too far from the truth. Thank you.
November 18, 2014 at 4:50 am
Maria J Cuesta
Thanks for your post. I can only agree. I try to overprotect my characters too. Thanks for pointing in out. Love your art. Thank you!!
November 18, 2014 at 11:41 am
marloes
Great story especially the advice about writing down funny anecdotes or stories that people keep telling. Also using bits of fun for character building. Thank you for being inspirational.
November 21, 2014 at 7:59 am
RaChelle Lisiecki
Letting our imaginations change up the story is an invaluable piece of advice. Thank you! Can’t wait to check out Pretty Minnie!
November 22, 2014 at 10:18 am
Betsy Devany
Love your artwork! Thanks for the inspiration and for great advice!
November 24, 2014 at 9:48 pm
lisakwillard
I love your amazing illustrations! I’m revisiting your post to make my adore/loathe lists – a great way to find inspiration. Thanks!
November 25, 2014 at 9:52 pm
Rick Starkey
Sometimes it’s hard to be mean to our characters, but a writer has to do it. Thanks for the post.
November 28, 2014 at 5:57 pm
Ellen Sirianni
Thanks for the great advice. The illustrations are beautiful, can’t wait to read the book.
November 28, 2014 at 11:22 pm
LL
heh heh… sorta like saying the truth is stranger than fiction, but a game of “what if” helps too
November 29, 2014 at 11:44 pm
majanecka
Great advice, delightful illustrations. I especially liked the advice to keep reminding yourself it’s not really her just a character based on her. It’s hard to take a step back when we are basing a character on a real person or pet.
November 30, 2014 at 9:35 am
Brook Gideon
It’s hard to step away and separate your feelings from the event, thanks for reminding us it is very often important to do just that thing!
November 30, 2014 at 9:12 pm
Nancy Kotkin
A good reminder to mine our real lives for ideas and story fodder. Thanks!
December 1, 2014 at 12:25 am
Colleen Kelley
This is a very important point to remember. Thanks.
December 1, 2014 at 12:59 am
Jason Perkins
great post.
December 1, 2014 at 5:13 am
Andrea J Loney
Wow, creating the love and loathe lists brings up so many memories… and stories. Thank you!