“What process do you follow to write your stories?” I’ve heard that question more frequently as I’ve sold more picture books, and I never know how to answer.
The people asking usually look as if they’re waiting for a golden ticket to inspiration. Like maybe I’ll say that I always walk three times around my living room, stand on one foot, hum the “Star-Spangled Banner” and then run to the computer to start writing before the muse I’ve conjured flies away. Then, they can do the same thing and wait for their own inspiration to strike.
When I tell the truth—that I don’t have a specific writing process—they seem disappointed. But, trust me. I’m doing them a favor. If they knew how things really go down, they might give up writing altogether. I’m a little haphazard.
But, just for you, in honor of PiBoWriMo, I am pulling back the curtain and sharing my process, such as it is. Here’s how I wrote WIDE-AWAKE BEAR, which is coming from HarperCollins in 2017:
Step One:
Have a cranky child.
Three years ago, my youngest daughter was happily napping on the couch. When I woke her to take her to volleyball practice, she had a world-class meltdown. There was wailing, tears and shouting. I tossed her into the car and took her anyway. Afterward, when she was calm, I said, “What was THAT all about?” Her response? “I was a hibernating bear. You woke me up, and I went into a bear frenzy.” (Author’s note: Is that not the best response ever? I love this kid.)
Step Two:
Forget about that adorable incident.
I filed that wonderful remark under the category of “Cool Stuff My Kid Has Said” and went about my business. For several years.
Step Three:
Be bored on a plane.
On a plane ride home from Yellowstone Park, where I was disappointed I hadn’t seen a bear, I thought I should use the flying time to do something productive. So I grabbed a notepad and pen and wrote a story about a bear cub who wakes up in the middle of winter and goes into a bear frenzy.
Step Four:
Listen to your critique group say, “Meh.”
I shared this story with my critique group and got a lukewarm response. They thought the bear cub got too cranky and deserved a timeout. They also didn’t understand why he got so angry. So I adjusted and reworked the story over several weeks. The title changed, and the storyline morphed into a bear cub who woke up midwinter, got scared and couldn’t fall back asleep. I shared it with some more writing friends and adjusted it even more. Then, I stopped, because I didn’t know what else to do.
Step Five:
Let it sit on your desktop for a while.
I wasn’t sure the story was ready. So I worked on other things and didn’t think much about it.
Step Six:
Send it to your agent on a whim.
Then one day, I opened the file and thought, “This isn’t so bad.” (See how I just glow with self-confidence?) I sent it to my agent, hoping she might give me a few ideas so I could work on it some more. But she thought it was ready to go, sent it out and it sold in about three weeks. That’s my quickest sale ever.
So, there you have it. How to write and sell a picture book in six simple steps. You know just what to do now, right?
I told another writer about my lack of a process, and she said, “You do have a process. It’s organic!” And she is absolutely right, because I’ve never once used pesticides in any of my books.
If there’s anything to learn from my post, it’s that everyone’s process is different. As long as you find something that works for you, you’ll be fine. If you’re not seeing the results you want and feel like your process may be fault, try a few different things.
- Be haphazard—I mean organic—like me.
- Be super-organized like another writer I know who sets her timer for 45-minute chunks and logs her writing time on a chart posted on her office door.
- Try writing mornings or evenings to see if something works better. Try different locations, too.
- Try standing on one foot in your living room and humming the national anthem. (It could work.)
Chances are something will seem more appealing to you and you’ll be well on your way to finding your own inspiration.
To learn more about me, visit PatZietlowMiller.com or follow me on Twitter at @PatZMiller.
If you leave a comment on this post you could be one of two people to win one of two prizes—a signed copy of SOPHIE’S SQUASH (Schwartz & Wade, 2013) to be sent immediately or a signed copy of WHEREVER YOU GO to be sent once it’s released from Little, Brown on May 5, 2015. Each of these books followed a totally different process than WIDE-AWAKE BEAR. I meant it when I said my process was haphazard.
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!
531 comments
Comments feed for this article
November 5, 2014 at 7:08 am
Dee Knabb
Love Pat’s understated humor and approach. I’m sure everyone wonders if their process is “right”.
November 5, 2014 at 7:08 am
Andrea
Thank you for your words of encouragement! I always think that writing one manuscript will somehow help me with the process of writing the next — but just like you, I find my process keeps changing.
I loved Sophie’s Squash — and I’m looking forward to Wide-Awake Bear.
November 5, 2014 at 7:16 am
Red said what?
An inspirational post AND PB from Pat. I loved loved loved Sophie’s Squash!
November 5, 2014 at 7:21 am
cat jones
What an inspiring and sweet story behind the story. Thanks!
November 5, 2014 at 7:24 am
mona861
Love this…I’m so “organic”, even with my writing!!!!
November 5, 2014 at 7:35 am
Carrie Finison
Thanks for sharing your process, Pat. Even though, like you, my process seems a bit haphazard and different for each story, I still love to read about other people’s processes! Writing is hard work, and I think we might all be looking for that one person who has discovered that magic bullet that makes it easier. 🙂
November 5, 2014 at 7:36 am
June Smalls
It’s great to know that others are as organic as me! Great post.
November 5, 2014 at 7:38 am
lindaschueler
It doesn’t matter what your process is, so long as you get there. Thanks for letting us take a peek into yours.
November 5, 2014 at 7:38 am
Kim Pfennigwerth
Pat – your post is as fun as your books! Thanks for giving us your process and inspiration, too!
November 5, 2014 at 7:46 am
jodimckay
Really happy to hear that writing doesn’t have to be organized, but can still result in a brilliant book. There may be hope for me yet! Thanks!
November 5, 2014 at 7:46 am
Sylvia Liu
Ha ha. Love your chemical-free non-GMO writing process.
November 5, 2014 at 7:48 am
Hayley B
You’re organic *and* organized! Thanks, Pat!
November 5, 2014 at 7:49 am
aliciaminor
There is really no process but we can share experiences like authors do to succeed and it is nice to know their experiences. One day, we will share ours too so, let’s keep on writing and let inspiration begins.
November 5, 2014 at 7:49 am
Jane Heitman Healy
Thank you, Pat! Any process that works is a good process! And it could be different every time. Loved hearing how Wide-Awake Bear was born. Congrats!
November 5, 2014 at 7:50 am
Rebecca Colby
“Organic” is definitely the way to go! 🙂 Great post! Thanks, Pat!
November 5, 2014 at 7:54 am
Alexa Kaufhold
I love this. Thanks Pat!
November 5, 2014 at 7:55 am
kateywrites
Oh, this had me smiling before the sun came up – and that’s saying something! Thanks, Pat, for sharing your process (and the cute things your kids say!)
November 5, 2014 at 7:57 am
Shel LeDrew
Great comments thank you.
November 5, 2014 at 7:58 am
Lenora Riegel
Great! I’m a pantser!
November 5, 2014 at 8:02 am
Heather Hatch
Thank you for contributing this post, I appreciate your thoughts!
November 5, 2014 at 8:04 am
Betsy Devany
What a great post! I, too, am a pantser for the most part, and I love listening to kids talk, secretly jotting down what they say. I am a huge fan of your work, Pat, and I can’t wait to own each and every one of your forthcoming books. Thanks for sharing your process and gracing the morning with humor and delight.
November 5, 2014 at 8:05 am
cartwomey
It’s refreshing to know I’m not the only one lol!! Thanks for the giggle and your honesty, it made me smile 😉
November 5, 2014 at 8:06 am
Cat
Thank you for this entertaining article Pat – humming the National Anthem as I write 🙂
November 5, 2014 at 8:06 am
Jabeen
Thank you!
November 5, 2014 at 8:09 am
jillesbaum
Pat, this made me laugh out loud. Loved reading about your scientific and oh, so specific process for writing Bear. I’m going to copy it.
November 5, 2014 at 8:09 am
Erin O'Brien
Love the reminder that there’s no magic ticket. Thanks for the inspiring post!
November 5, 2014 at 8:10 am
Jennifer Larson
Love her simple approach! I’m in a “frenzy” about it! 😃
November 5, 2014 at 8:14 am
3011mileswestofvt
The message I keep hearing is collect all those life snipetts because you never know were they might lead you. Thanks!
November 5, 2014 at 8:16 am
ManjuBeth
Pat, your post is entertaining. Just like your books.
November 5, 2014 at 8:28 am
Jim Chaize
My process is similar, except for having the agent to send it to.
November 5, 2014 at 8:29 am
Jeanine Potter
Dear Pat, Thank you for some valuable insight. One of my takeaways is :in spite of the critiques- go with your gut. Thanks for that and more!
November 5, 2014 at 8:30 am
jan godown annino
Dear Pat,
Your article of a glimpse into your writing personality for Tara & us is totally not “meh.” I have long luvved that word because it makes me work harder.
I think the push-me, pull-me directions here are the bear’s bacon. Brava!
And very un-meh kudos for your picrure books!
j a n
Jan Godown Annino
@BkSeedStudio
November 5, 2014 at 8:31 am
Jennifer Cheng DesAutels
Thank you, Pat! Your posting helps me believe in myself.
November 5, 2014 at 8:31 am
heather
Loved this post. Must have my Hubby read since he can not understand my process of no real process
November 5, 2014 at 8:32 am
Dinah Miller
You have to believe.
November 5, 2014 at 8:34 am
Elaine Duree
Thank you Pat, Whats the title of your bear book, id love to read it!
November 5, 2014 at 9:03 am
Pat Zietlow Miller
Hi Elaine: The book is WIDE-AWAKE BEAR from HarperCollins, but it won’t be out until 2017. So there will be a bit of a wait!
November 5, 2014 at 8:35 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
I love your sense of humor Pat! Your process may be organic, but your eye and ear for the sublimely wonderful and funny are also spot-on!
November 5, 2014 at 8:36 am
Kim Sebastian
It really helps to know that others work as I do- allowing ideas to perk and change for a while before they actually become a finished work. I also took comfort in knowing that others (especially a successful author) may be unsure as to when an idea has come to it’s fullest potential. Tx!
November 5, 2014 at 8:43 am
Christine Michaela Sharpe
I love hearing about writing process styles! Thanks for sharing!
November 5, 2014 at 8:45 am
Ann K
Me too! I love your sense of humor. Each story is a different story so perhaps each story process is different too.
November 5, 2014 at 8:47 am
pathaap
Love your humor, Pat! I definitely agree that all writers’ processes are different. Thanks for the reminder!
November 5, 2014 at 8:48 am
Doris Stone
Thank you, Pat for sharing your writing process. Haphazard – organic works for me!
November 5, 2014 at 8:49 am
Lynn A. Davidson
Thank you, Pat, for a chuckle to start my day. I appreciate your suggestions because I think my approach is haphazard, too, and – as you said – it could work.
November 5, 2014 at 8:49 am
Robyn Campbell
Hey Pat. I really appreciate you sharing this today. I think I’m haphazard, er, organic too. The bear book sounds like fun!! 🙂
November 5, 2014 at 8:50 am
Shena Ashcraft
Thank you, Pat! That’s also exactly how I feel as a teacher. “How do you teach a child to read?” My response, “WHICH child?”
November 5, 2014 at 8:51 am
Laurie Theurer
Hi Pat, we met at the SCBWI in Los Angeles last August. I was the jet-lagged woman from Switzerland pestering you to sign Sophie’s Squash for me. 🙂
Thanks for the encouraging blog. At this point, I’m ready to try the national anthem idea… you never know!
November 5, 2014 at 9:02 am
Pat Zietlow Miller
Hi Laurie! Good to see you again online.
November 5, 2014 at 8:52 am
Sue Heavenrich
I love your process – or maybe not-process… or maybe just organic whatever happens sort-of process. I, too, believe stories should not be sprayed with insecticides, herbicides, fungicides… though I do set mousetraps now because of missing chocolate (and other mouse evidence that shows they have little regard for my carefully wrought stories). Sophie’s Squash- great story! Thanks for starting the day off with humor.
November 5, 2014 at 8:52 am
Joan Waites
Thanks for laugh this morning-my process is much the same.
November 5, 2014 at 8:53 am
Jan Milusich
Hooray for haphazard! It’s such a cool word.
November 5, 2014 at 8:53 am
girlwrites29
Inspiration comes from the most unusual places for me. The main trick is I must be open to it when it hits and I have to write it down:). Thanks for the reminder.
November 5, 2014 at 8:54 am
rgstones
Thanks for starting my day off with a smile. I love Sophie’s Squash and can’t wait to read your upcoming books.
November 5, 2014 at 8:54 am
Deb Dudley
This was a great post! Really enjoyed the tips and plan to begin humming the National Athem ASAP! (Haven’t tried that one yet.)
November 5, 2014 at 8:55 am
Susan Latta
Thanks, Pat! Sounds like inspiration and believing in yourself is the key!
November 5, 2014 at 8:58 am
claudia Stenvig-Olsen
Thank you for the inspiration! I have that list somewhere of crazy things my kids have said…..now to find it.
November 5, 2014 at 8:58 am
Chana Stiefel
“Oh say can you seeeeee!” Hooray! It’s working! Thanks Pat. Sophie’s Squash is one of my favorite PBs ever! Can’t wait to read your new books. Congrats!
November 5, 2014 at 9:00 am
Andria
Glad you took that bear out of hibernation!
November 5, 2014 at 9:00 am
Pj McIlvaine
When inspiration strikes, I listen, no matter what I’m doing.
November 5, 2014 at 9:01 am
Nancy Furstinger
Loved the “tail” of Wide-Awake Bear and how it was inspired by your daughter’s meltdown! My rescued dog and house rabbit inspired two of my picture books.
November 5, 2014 at 9:01 am
Jenny Seiger
Great post! My writing is “organic” too. I often write down ideas or words on random paper I can find so I don’t forget, and then get to it weeks later when I finally have time or the mood strikes. Good to know I’m doing it right, lol! Thanks Pat!
November 5, 2014 at 9:04 am
Daryl Gottier
What a fun ways to change things up a bit, thanks! PS- Love Sophie’s Squash.
November 5, 2014 at 9:05 am
Susan Halko
Thanks, Pat! I think “listen to your critique group say ‘meh'” is an important step. That will help get something down on paper.
November 5, 2014 at 9:11 am
Claire Lordon (@ClaireLordon)
Thanks for sharing your process! It’s always so interesting to hear how the idea to book timeline works. Congrats on your books!
November 5, 2014 at 9:15 am
Jacqueline
Those “meh” first drafts can be pretty discouraging, so I appreciated reading how you worked hard to turn yours around. And thanks for making me laugh first thing in the morning!
November 5, 2014 at 9:16 am
Sarah T
Thanks for sharing your thoughts! My 3 yr old LOVES Sophie’s Squash- and wants to read it again and again 🙂
November 5, 2014 at 9:18 am
Jill Edmonds
Love this. I don’t feel so bad about the 10 minutes I might get to write 30 words while my kid climbs up on my office chair and pees on my head. Yes, that really happened.
November 5, 2014 at 9:18 am
Barbara Cairns
Thanks, Pat for making me feel it’s okay to be haphazard about my writing projects. I love Sophie’s Squash by the way.
November 5, 2014 at 9:18 am
Alice Fulgione
Thanks for sharing your great ideas!
November 5, 2014 at 9:19 am
talithabuggirl
My best ideas strike right when I wake up!
November 5, 2014 at 9:24 am
Anita Banks
Awesome! I now know that I am an organic processor!
November 5, 2014 at 9:25 am
Becky P. Hurd
My writing process- write. When and where I can. You have kids. You get it. 😀
November 5, 2014 at 9:28 am
deborahholtwilliams
So glad your books are pesticide free! I loved your post as much as I love Sophie’s Squash. It validated my own rather scattered “process.”
November 5, 2014 at 9:28 am
Michelle Heidenrich Barnes
Okay, don’t take this the wrong way, but I love you. And your process. Thanks for the smile this morning.
November 5, 2014 at 9:33 am
Zachary Ratcliffe
Funny and inspiring! -Zach Ratcliffe
November 5, 2014 at 9:33 am
Debra Shumaker
Love this. Three years ago my one of my son’s temper tantrum inspired one of my PBs as well. I’ve been getting mixed feedback on it too so I’ve never sent it out. You’ve just convinced me to give it a shot! Great post.
November 5, 2014 at 9:34 am
katrinamoorebooks
Thanks for this comforting and relatable post! It started my day with a smile.
November 5, 2014 at 9:36 am
Cindy Greene
Love your process. Inspiration – and modifications can come from some fun places.
November 5, 2014 at 9:37 am
Stacey Shubitz
I loved Sophie’s Squash so I’m eagerly anticipating your next books.
Nice to know I’m not the only one with an “organic” process.
November 5, 2014 at 9:40 am
Nancy Armo
Pesticide free writing is always good. Thanks for the fun post.
November 5, 2014 at 9:40 am
Heather Thurmeier
This was a great post and I love the inspiration from your daughter! Everyone’s writing process is different but it’s hard not to compare our own to someone else’s. Loved this post!
November 5, 2014 at 9:45 am
Claire O'Brien
Funny, good stuff.!
November 5, 2014 at 9:46 am
Sherri Jones Rivers
Ooooh, I loved Sophie’s squash. I like your tongue-in-cheek approach to writing; and thanks for reminding us that each of our journeys is unique and just right for each of us as a writer. How boring if we all did it the same way.
November 5, 2014 at 9:48 am
kathalsey
OK, I will try standing on one leg. lol. I sat next to you at SCBWI LA this summer and you were working and sweating over your acceptance speech for the luncheon. It was one of the highlights of my conference experience. I love the idea of bear frenzy! Ty for drawing back the curtain.
November 5, 2014 at 8:16 pm
Pat Zietlow Miller
Hi Kathy: I am honored to be anyone’s highlight. Truly.
November 5, 2014 at 9:50 am
Tom Barrett
I enjoy reading about others’ processes, not matter how “organic”! Thanks for sharing!
November 5, 2014 at 9:50 am
Cat Clerkin
Thanks for sharing Pat! An “organic” person myself, I find comfort in the fact that not all published authors set timers and have spreadsheets. Also, I am going to start describing myself as organic.
November 5, 2014 at 9:52 am
tphumiruk
Ha ha! Thank you Pat, for inspiration and humor today! 🙂
November 5, 2014 at 9:52 am
Allison Burke
Finally, I have a name for my writing style! I am an organic writer too!!! I love this post and I love Sophie’s Squash. Thank you for your honest post, phew what a relief.
November 5, 2014 at 9:53 am
Joseph Miller
Thanks for the inspiration!
November 5, 2014 at 9:54 am
Sarah Frances Hardy
I LOVE Sophie’s Squash. And yes … Pat’s process sounds a lot like mine.
November 5, 2014 at 9:55 am
Joyce Tucker
Thanks Pat! I think I need to dig back in my mind and remember some of those “cute” things my nieces and nephews have made. Never know…
November 5, 2014 at 9:57 am
Heather Pierce Stigall
Your writing “process” sounds an awful like mine! No two stories have come about the same way, and that’s what works for me. Glad to know there are other kindred spirits out there!
November 5, 2014 at 9:59 am
Pat Miller
It would seem that flailing around, suspending the process, and revisiting lukewarm stories are three homely ingredients for success we rarely hear about. Thanks for the encouraging reveal!
November 5, 2014 at 11:45 am
Pat Zietlow Miller
It’s the other Pat Miller! Hi Pat!
November 5, 2014 at 9:59 am
Sue Poduska
Sounds a lot like my process. You give me hope.
November 5, 2014 at 10:01 am
Carolyn Rohrbaugh
I find inspiration comes in spurts and needs to be put together.
November 5, 2014 at 10:04 am
mguion
This sounds eerily familiar!
November 5, 2014 at 10:08 am
thestoryladyva
Organic writing… from natural, real experience and from the heart! Love it!
November 5, 2014 at 10:09 am
beckylevine
Great post. I think I’ll go with the haphazard!
November 5, 2014 at 10:09 am
danielle hammelef
Thanks for sharing your writing process! I always love to read about how other writers write.
November 5, 2014 at 10:10 am
Doreen E. Lepore
Thanks for the great post!
November 5, 2014 at 10:13 am
rowenarae
Great reminder to write down and keep snippets of things kids say!
November 5, 2014 at 10:14 am
Donna Rossman
Such great food for thought and organic too! Loved this post Pat – Thanks!
November 5, 2014 at 10:16 am
Susan Cabael
I really like your humor in this piece. Off to hum our national anthem now…which I dreamed about performing last night. Must be a sign that a “meh” draft is coming my way.
November 5, 2014 at 10:16 am
Emmeline Hall
Oh good, my own ‘organic’ process isn’t too terrible! Cranky children do seem to be necessary… 😉
November 5, 2014 at 10:17 am
Alisa Harris-Norico
Thanks for sharing your process, no matter how haphazard! I think that’s the default setting for most creative work. 🙂
November 5, 2014 at 10:19 am
marlainagray
No pesticides, really? 🙂 Loved this post and loved “Sophie’s Squash”!
November 5, 2014 at 10:19 am
Debra Daugherty
Fun post! I’ve never thought about my writing process until I read yours. I think I need to go back in time and recall the funny stuff my nieces and nephews used to say. There’s a story hidden in there somewhere.
November 5, 2014 at 10:19 am
Traci Sorell
I’m glad to hear that cranky children can produce published books and not just ideas. Mine has been giving me plenty of material for ideas this week. Thanks so much, Pat.
November 5, 2014 at 10:22 am
Sophia Mallonée (@SophiaMallonee)
Great post! Thanks so much, Pat!
November 5, 2014 at 10:22 am
jkirsch118
Great post. Now I can tell my wife that I’m not Undisciplined – just organic. Thanks!
November 5, 2014 at 10:24 am
carolynscombs
Starting my day with these wonderful posts and comments is becoming part of my process – at least for this month. Thanks for sharing.
November 5, 2014 at 10:24 am
Pam Miller
Gosh, I’ve missed a lot. Writing it down today. Thanks for a motivating post.
November 5, 2014 at 10:25 am
Lisa Kahn Schnell
Thanks for the great post, and for Sophie’s Squash. My whole family loves that book. Can’t wait to see what your organic process offers up next!
November 5, 2014 at 10:28 am
carrie a. pearson
Pat, your post helped me realize once again that universal truth is the difference between a cute/snarky/naughty anecdote and a story.
November 5, 2014 at 10:29 am
Kellie DuBay Gillis
Your approache should work perfectly for me…I have not one cranky child, but two! Double the inspiration! Hilarious, but meaningful, post. Thank you! Can’t wait to read WIDE AWAKE BEAR.
November 5, 2014 at 10:30 am
KatyD
Wonderful post, Pat. Thank you!
November 5, 2014 at 10:31 am
apserione
…
I begin spraying paint on the canvas. When I’ve finished, and the canvas is filled with colored spots, I begin to look for forms out of the patches of color. Then I refine by brush the shapes et le voilà the painting is finished.
November 5, 2014 at 10:32 am
Mishka Jaeger
Have you seen the book called “Beautiful oops?”
November 5, 2014 at 10:33 am
apserione
no, is it similar to what I’m saying?
November 6, 2014 at 11:27 pm
Mishka Jaeger
In a way, yes. It’s about taking things that happen to your paper and making them into other things. All art and creative. And it’s a childrens book.
November 7, 2014 at 9:43 am
apserione
very smart!
November 5, 2014 at 10:31 am
Mishka Jaeger
I have step 1 down! I’m only mostly kidding but the kids really give me a lot of silly inspiration. I love your process because this scatterbrained artist mom of two-under-four can relate to it. Thank you!
November 5, 2014 at 10:31 am
shiela fuller
I love your humor shining through in this post. I’m organic, too. Thank you for posting for us today!
November 5, 2014 at 10:32 am
Elizabeth Metz
Sophie’s Squash is a delightful story, so I can’t wait to read these others! I’m a haphazard process person, too, and appreciate hearing about Pat’s pesticide-free process. But I think that’s the beauty of PiBoIdMo. It helps channel those instincts. It points the butterfly net in the right direction, or at least encourages us as writers/butterfly catchers to always have our net out. Or something.
November 5, 2014 at 10:32 am
Christy Mihaly
I’m deep into a “Meh” redraft now and appreciate the encouragement to keep processing, organically. Thanks for the funny post!
November 5, 2014 at 10:35 am
Janie Reinart
Dear Pat, Thank you for making laugh this morning! I have grandchildren that say the best things now! In fact I am using one of those sayings for my idea today!! Yeah! I sent a copy of your book, and my granddaughter loves Sophie’s Squash! 🙂
November 5, 2014 at 10:36 am
Deirdre Sheridan Englehart
Okay… so walk around my living room 3 times…. It is a start and it couldn’t hurt anything!
Thanks for your inspiration!
November 5, 2014 at 10:36 am
Jessie
Ha! I love the “send it to your agent on a whim” part! It’s so true. So many people are afraid to just go for it, but it’s incredible how exciting it is when you finally take the leap and stop thinking so much about it! Congrats on your successes and thank you for sharing!
November 5, 2014 at 10:38 am
tinawissner
Great stuff! I’m ready to ‘enjoy’ being Bored On a Plane!
November 5, 2014 at 10:38 am
Priya
Lovely post.
November 5, 2014 at 10:39 am
Debbie Wagenbach
I have also learned every story and writing process is unique from beginning to end. Thanks for reassuring me this is normal, Pat!
November 5, 2014 at 10:41 am
LovableLobo
Such a delightful post, Pat! I love haphazard truths!
November 5, 2014 at 10:42 am
Linda Ford
So encouraging to have someone acknowledge that everyone has a unique process and perhaps, so does every story.
November 5, 2014 at 10:43 am
marcimcadam
I’m all about organic, Pat, and not just food (which is, um, haphazardly organic…)! Thanks for sharing your process, which we may not repeat but which is definitely encouraging.
November 5, 2014 at 10:44 am
hummingbird13
Thank you, Pat. It’s always encouraging to read about someone’s process, as it makes one feel as if they’re not alone in this solitary quest to write.
November 5, 2014 at 10:45 am
kariail2013
I love this post. I am learning more and more how different each and every writer is and how different their processes are. There is no right or wrong for me – that is very freeing! I’m definitely organic!
November 5, 2014 at 10:45 am
cantsing1
OH, good! I’m “organic,” too. Just guess I’ll have to keep trusting my process. And I will forget “adorable.” I jot them down, but don’t write them. Now I know why ; ) Thanks!
November 5, 2014 at 10:47 am
Doris Fisher
You hit the nail on the head! Everyone deserves to find their writing process or find there is no writing process that is perfect. Happy to have been an early reader of Sophia’s Squash!
November 5, 2014 at 10:49 am
amymariesmith
Great post. And some great inspiration for those “meh” times.
November 5, 2014 at 10:52 am
Sheri Roloff
I love this, Pat! Thanks for the inspiration. I feel comforted knowing I’m not the only one who lacks a specific process. Thanks! 🙂
November 5, 2014 at 10:53 am
katmaz2012
I am so glad to hear that “organic” writers get published! Love your process and your books. Thanks, Pat ,and of course, Tara.
November 5, 2014 at 10:54 am
Natasha
I first heard about Sophie’s Squash on NPR. Wonderful. I LOVE the ending. It’d be very cool to own a signed copy.
November 5, 2014 at 11:44 am
Pat Zietlow Miller
Sophie’s Squash was mentioned on NPR? How did I not know this? Breathing deeply into a paper bag.
November 5, 2014 at 10:55 am
Kathleen
Pat, you made my day. I don’t use pesticides in my writing process either. So nice to know I’m an “organic” writer too!
November 5, 2014 at 10:57 am
Kathy Raggio
Thanks for sharing your ‘organic’ process, Pat!
November 5, 2014 at 10:57 am
lmconnors
Lisa Connors
This is so comforting to read because I am apparently in an organic stage in my writing path! Thank you.
November 5, 2014 at 10:58 am
Zainab Khan
Thanks for sharing your process. I’m definitely standing on one foot and humming the national anthem.
November 5, 2014 at 10:59 am
Tina Hoggatt
What a sparkling entry! The combination of humor and permission to follow one’s own star was a terrific way to start the day.
November 5, 2014 at 11:03 am
Amy
That gives my haphazard process hope…and btw, my daughter also adopts squash and other produce items to mother, so “Sophie’s Squash” is ingenuis, haphazard or not.
November 5, 2014 at 11:05 am
Donna L Martin
I’m glad to know I’m not the only writer out there with a slightly haphazard way to the way I write. And I just want to say I LOVE Sophie’s Squash.
Thanks Tara and Pat for a great post!
November 5, 2014 at 11:06 am
Linda Hofke
thanks for your honest answer. I don’t have a real process either but have found that I work better at night.
November 5, 2014 at 11:09 am
kpbock
So good to hear that you don’t use pesticides in your books. Organic ones are the best!
November 5, 2014 at 11:12 am
A. G. Tan
The next time I wake up grumpy (like, maybe, tomorrow) I am going to use your kid’s hibernation line!
November 5, 2014 at 11:14 am
Donna L. Sadd
Your daughter sounds like a pistol, Pat. I love your non-process and funny wit. I keep Sophie’s Squash on my desk as a mentor text too! Thanks for writing such a terrific book. :0)
November 5, 2014 at 11:15 am
Pamela M. Tuck
Thanks for sharing. I can truly relate. People ask me about writing and I usually tell them I’m not a full-time or part-time writer. I’m a spontaneous writer. Sometimes I can crank out a first draft picture book in one sitting, while other times it takes weeks/months to crank out one line. But children are definitely a motivating force behind literature. 🙂
November 5, 2014 at 11:16 am
kevanjatt
The one foot, living room, national anthem thing…doesn’t work. Nor do show tunes.
November 5, 2014 at 11:42 am
Pat Zietlow Miller
Well, Kevan … You obviously aren’t DOING it right.
November 5, 2014 at 11:19 am
Lynnette Sandbloom
Sharing your process makes me value my own quirky writing style. Thanks for sharing!
November 5, 2014 at 11:20 am
Tina Cho
I enjoyed reading your “process” for your newest book! So fun!
November 5, 2014 at 11:20 am
cbennet6
I LOVE Sophie’s Squash! And I love this post on process- it can be whatever you want, as long as it is there, and you work, and you get caught up in that wonderful idea to word chase at some point 🙂
November 5, 2014 at 11:21 am
jngallaher
I love Pat’s voice! I literally laughed out loud several times!
November 5, 2014 at 11:22 am
Lindsay Bonilla
I love your honesty Pat! I feel the same way! My process is different every time!
November 5, 2014 at 11:22 am
Janet Smart
I am very haphazard in my writing, too. Thanks for the fun post.
November 5, 2014 at 11:23 am
Sydney O'Neill
Thanks for the smiles. I like your haphazard technique. If writing were as simple as following steps, everything we write would be wonderful.
November 5, 2014 at 11:24 am
Maria Oka
You had me laughing out loud at the breakfast table. I LOVE your daughter’s response and your “organic” process sounds fabulous. I agree that the first step to a great idea often really is to have a cranky kid. And Sally and Sonya (my daughters squash friends) are alive and well, though I’m worried they won’t survive the winter since we live in an apartment and have no backyard where they can live. Thank you for this tremendously helpful and hilarious post!
November 5, 2014 at 11:41 am
Pat Zietlow Miller
Hi Maria: I do know of a preschool class that planted its squash friend in a really large pot. So that might be an option …
November 5, 2014 at 11:25 am
Lisa Robinson
I love the pesticide free process. I’ll be using it myself! 🙂
November 5, 2014 at 11:25 am
KurlGurl
I love it. I do envy the person who is systematic and organized but I tend more towards Pat’s approach. One of these days I’ll set that timer!!
November 5, 2014 at 11:25 am
pbgirl1
Hooray for organic writers! And for your lovely post 🙂
November 5, 2014 at 11:28 am
Celeste Elbert
I write books in my head when I clean, but getting them out of there is no easy task! Thanks for your post.
November 5, 2014 at 11:28 am
Stephanie Fitzpatrick
Thanks for the post. I needed this to remind me of my own process, or lack thereof!
November 5, 2014 at 11:29 am
Dorothy Wiese
Thanks for the fun description of your writing style. I laughed reading it. Laughing is good! I too am haphazard.
November 5, 2014 at 11:35 am
kjfoote
Hilarious! And gives me hope for my lingering-for-years stories 🙂
November 5, 2014 at 11:35 am
kdveiten
I really enjoyed reading this post! Thanks for some greatly needed inspiration.
November 5, 2014 at 11:44 am
Lauri Meyers
That’s the same process I use! Some sort of nugget gets lodged in my brain until I can shake it out on paper months or years later.
November 5, 2014 at 11:47 am
storyfairy
I’m up for anything organic! 🙂 -Lily Stejskal
November 5, 2014 at 11:49 am
Rebecca E. Guzinski
Oh, I needed this post today more than you could ever imagine! 🙂 Your humor and honesty is greatly appreciated! I love that your story was pieced together by variations of thoughts and experiences. I love that you got stuck, didn’t know what to do, and put it aside. That seems so REALISTIC for true writers. Best of all, I actually chuckled out loud @ the organic comment. Your final thoughts left me with a smile and set the tone for today’s writing. I look forward to reading ALL of your books.
Rebecca E. Guzinski
November 5, 2014 at 11:50 am
Patricia Toht
So, you’re saying that my first step should be “borrow Pat’s adorable daughter”?
November 5, 2014 at 12:28 pm
Pat Zietlow Miller
Yes. And feed her while you have her. She likes noodles.
November 5, 2014 at 11:52 am
daynesislendesign
Thank you so much for sharing, I thought I was the only one who worked like that. Nice to know it’s organic.
November 5, 2014 at 11:54 am
hmmmmm
Three cheers for organic!! Thanks for the post.
November 5, 2014 at 11:55 am
Susan Schade
Great advice! Thank you!
November 5, 2014 at 11:55 am
Andi
Your *unprocess* is fab! Thanks so much! : )
November 5, 2014 at 12:07 pm
nancydrewit
Thanks, Pat–I loved your post! My best writing time is on dog walks, perhaps because dogs think like kids!
November 5, 2014 at 12:12 pm
Janny J Johnson
Sophie’s Squash is one of my grandkids’ all time favorites… and mine too! This was fun to hear from you.
November 5, 2014 at 12:17 pm
Denise Bowman
I like the way you think! Thank you!
November 5, 2014 at 12:17 pm
Judy Cox
Loved your post. I read Sophie’s Squash at the library storytime last week. I’m “organic”, too!
November 5, 2014 at 12:21 pm
Sandy Jones
Thanks for giving us permission to improvise! Great post.
November 5, 2014 at 12:21 pm
Kristen Yakubisin
Sounds a lot like my process! (Thank goodness for the inspiration of our kids to get us started)
November 5, 2014 at 12:22 pm
Marla
I find I do most of my “writing” in my head during moments of boredom. Then, when I sit down to write/type it out I’m not at a loss for words.
November 5, 2014 at 12:23 pm
Carol Federoff
Oh thank you for the laughter you gave me today – and also the realization that it’s okay to experiment with our own process to see what works for us and not compare our process to that of others. Great post!
November 5, 2014 at 12:28 pm
Sandy Powell
Pat, I agree with you. I don’t think any one way is the right way to have a process. I would compare it to exercising. No one way is the right way, just whatever makes you get up off the couch to exercise or write. Also, I wanted to tell you Sophie’s Squash was such a delight to read. Thank you!
November 5, 2014 at 12:29 pm
Ashley Bohmer
I’m so glad to know that I’m not the only haphazard writer out there.-Thanks! 😉
November 5, 2014 at 12:34 pm
Heidi Yates
Thank you Pat! You did a wonderful job answering a difficult question. I’m sure a lot of creative people can relate to the “organic” process. 🙂
November 5, 2014 at 12:36 pm
tanjabauerle
I love step one: Have a cranky child. I have two of those, so I should have a step up, right? LOL Love your post and loved your speech at the SCBWI LA this Summer. I’m a fan. 🙂 Thank you. T
November 5, 2014 at 12:40 pm
Marty McCormick
Pat, I still remember your post from last year. It was ever so helpful to me. Thanks for yet another glimpse into the magical process of how a wonderful PB is born! Congrats on your newest publications. Marty McCormick
November 5, 2014 at 12:40 pm
Sherry Walz
Pat, it’s nice to reminded that there is no formula for inspiration that works for everyone. Congratulations on your upcoming book.
November 5, 2014 at 12:41 pm
Mary McClellan
Now I know why I like Sopie’s Squash so much — no pesticides!! Can’t wait to read about your chem-free bear!
November 5, 2014 at 12:42 pm
Vicki Wilke
Like everyone – love Sophie’s Squash! Funny, funny post! Step 1: Cranky Child – kid perspective is definitely the best place to grow an idea from. After all, they will be the audience! As I type here I am being pursued by many of my grand children’s little quips – off to write! Thanks, Pat!
November 5, 2014 at 12:45 pm
Maria Bostian
So glad to hear that the haphazard approach works for others, as well. May try thr jogging and singing sometime, too!
Thanks for the inspiration to try different writing techniques!
November 5, 2014 at 12:45 pm
rmcg14
I’m haphazard too! Thanks for the reminder there are different ways to get it written!
November 5, 2014 at 12:47 pm
zattazooZazu
I just woke up and now feel justified to fly in to a bear frenzy. Thankyou.
November 5, 2014 at 12:47 pm
danielledufayet
That was a wonderful “break down” of your creative process. Love your books and looking forward to Wide Awake Bear!
November 5, 2014 at 12:50 pm
Kelly Ramsdell Fineman
Just to see if it works, I’m going to try walking three times around my living room, standing on one foot, humming the “Star-Spangled Banner” and then running to the computer to start writing. In case that’s actually Pat’s secret and she didn’t want to admit it.
November 5, 2014 at 12:50 pm
Mary Zychowicz
Great tips! I just realized I’m an “organic” writer and I don’t feel so bad about that!
November 5, 2014 at 12:52 pm
Virginia Law Manning
SOPHIE’S SQUASH is one of my all-time favorite books! I thought your post was quite funny : ) After months of rewrites, several dummy versions, and finished full-color pieces, I recently turned my picture book manuscript into an early chapter book. Whatever works, right? Hopefully, my other books won’t follow this process–the long way around!!!
November 5, 2014 at 12:53 pm
claireannette1
Letting a manuscript sit for awhile is always a great idea. I’m looking forward to reading Wide Awake Bear.
November 5, 2014 at 12:54 pm
Karen Calloway
I love the term “organic” and will happily use it when my husband says to me, “How can you write anything in all this clutter?” THANKS for that!
November 5, 2014 at 12:56 pm
Nancy Piper Davis
I am standing on one foot and humming away as I write this!! Thank you for the blog, and I, too, love the concept of the grumpy bear!! What a wonderful inspiration story.
November 5, 2014 at 1:00 pm
Ellen Pridmore
Thank you for the supportive post this morning. Sophie’s Squash is a great book!
November 5, 2014 at 1:00 pm
Stephanie Geckle (@SPGeckle)
Thank you for sharing your “organic” approach. I feel better already!
November 5, 2014 at 1:04 pm
coloredsock
I really appreciate your post and can relate. 🙂 I am organic in my approach, too, (and it’s not the fast track at all but it’s the only way that works for me!) and I also find that each book I write and illustrate calls for a different path and approach – almost like a child’s spirit and personality calls for a bit different parenting because that is what they need most. Your upcoming books look wonderful! Congrats! And, i love Eliza Wheeler’s art. 🙂
November 5, 2014 at 1:06 pm
Buffy Silverman
Thanks for the morning laugh–nice to know that others are as haphazard—I mean organic—as me.
November 5, 2014 at 1:06 pm
Dana Murphy
This is very comforting. Although I haven’t been published, my writing process is also… ummm…. ‘organic.’ It usually starts with my sitting at my computer, drumming my keys on the keyboard, and staring blankly off into space. You get the idea…
Great post.
November 5, 2014 at 1:08 pm
Mary Warth
Thanks Pat for the positive reinforcement for us “organic writers”!
November 5, 2014 at 1:09 pm
Christie
HaHa! “See how I just glow with self confidence?” We’re all in the same boat, aren’t we. 🙂 Thank you for sharing your writing process.
November 5, 2014 at 1:10 pm
Lori Alexander
Thanks for sharing your “process,” Pat! And glad to hear your PBs are all pesticide-free 🙂
November 5, 2014 at 1:10 pm
bilinguazo
Great post! Makes me feel good about my haphazard approach. I have no process as of yet. Maybe someday…
November 5, 2014 at 1:22 pm
Suzanne Dameron
Hi Pat,
Here’s to your muse whoever and wherever she is. Her sense of humor is admirable and I’m thrilled she is using your voice. Keep on singing, butdo you get tired of the same song every day?
November 5, 2014 at 1:23 pm
Bethany Roberts
I too am haphazard- (which makes super-organized writer types uncomfortable when I admit it. What? No routine?!) The one “secret” I have is to keep my antennae up so I notice good ideas when they fly by!!
November 5, 2014 at 1:23 pm
hethfeth
Pat, I LOVE your post (am laughing out loud) and I love “Sophie’s Squash” (my kids and I have checked it out at the library). Your thoughts on process are real and messy and funny and true and easy to relate to. I want to thank you so much for posting this–and for taking the mystery out of “process”!
November 5, 2014 at 1:24 pm
mariajcuesta
Funny post. Love to try silly things that bring inspiration.
thanks a lot
maria
November 5, 2014 at 1:27 pm
Jessica Maria
We love Sophie’s Squash in our house (4.5 & 2-year old boys). Great post!
November 5, 2014 at 1:31 pm
Kathryn Ault Noble
Pat, great to hear that Sophie’s Squash was organically grown! Having been growing and eating organically for the last 30 years, I have learned to encourage the “pests”, considering that includes honey bees who without their visits, the plants cannot produce fruit. Wonderful analogy for allowing those random thoughts and behaviors to visit our writing process! Thank you!
November 5, 2014 at 1:33 pm
Tracey M. Cox
Pat, You had me laughing throughout your article. BTW, we share writing process… haphazard, er, organic!!!
November 5, 2014 at 1:33 pm
Anne Lei-Yeung So
Being organic is a great way to approach so many things…thanks 😉
November 5, 2014 at 1:36 pm
Jill Tuckman
Thank you so much for being brave enough to never use pesticides in your books 🙂 Hopefully we will all have strength enough to follow.
November 5, 2014 at 1:40 pm
Teresa Daffern
Thanks Pat! We love, love, love Sophie’s Squash. My son adopted an eggplant shortly after reading it. I love that your style is ‘haphazard’ (I mean, organic). I call myself a ‘pants writer’, in that I am often flying by the seat of my pants. Thanks for helping me realize that it is okay if it works for me.
November 5, 2014 at 1:41 pm
Holly Ruppel
I don’t think my process has been the same for any two manuscripts I’ve written. Thanks for the reminder that that’s okay, Pat! Great post!
November 5, 2014 at 1:47 pm
Christine M. Irvin
Such a fun post. Thanks!
November 5, 2014 at 1:51 pm
Shari Twing
Thanks, Pat – even though I’m not a writer, you’ve given me sprinkles of thoughts to use in my other passions!
November 5, 2014 at 1:51 pm
Sharalyn A. Edgeberg
Thanks for the sharing the ideas-random as they may be for each of us. Congrats on SOPHIE’S SQUASH–I LOVED IT. & Congrats on the new book. Thanks for sharing.
November 5, 2014 at 1:57 pm
Jodi Moore
Kids say the bestest things! Thanks for sharing with us. 🙂
November 5, 2014 at 1:57 pm
Suzanne Kaufman
great post. Be organic
November 5, 2014 at 1:57 pm
loriannlevyholm
I like your organic process. I can’t imagine charts…it would feel too much like math to me!
November 5, 2014 at 2:00 pm
kmshelley
Great post. Thanks for making randomness legit!
November 5, 2014 at 2:20 pm
Pat Zietlow Miller
I think I might make that my motto. “Making randomness legit.” I love it.
November 5, 2014 at 2:01 pm
suzannepoulterharris
Don’t you love it when haphazard works? Thanks for sharing the secret to your success. It gives me hope.
November 5, 2014 at 2:01 pm
gabisnyder
Thanks for sharing your “organic process,” Pat! This is a good reminder that we don’t need to force ourselves into a particular process; we just need to find what works and allow it to change as needed. I liked hearing that your story sat for awhile and had some iterations. Sometimes we’re in such a hurry we forget that stories often need time and space!
November 5, 2014 at 2:07 pm
Becky Hohensee
Super encouraging words. Love the post.
November 5, 2014 at 2:13 pm
Beth Blee
Pat, thanks for your encouragement. Love your daughters response to why she reacted to you waking her up. I need to go pick up Sophie’s Squash! Thanks for your time and suggestions.
November 5, 2014 at 2:13 pm
marciecolleen
Thanks for this post, from one ORGANIC author to another. 🙂
November 5, 2014 at 2:15 pm
Annie Cronin Romano
What a sense of humor! And very true. Everyone’s process is different, and very often that process varies for each of a writer’s stories. There’s no magic formula. 🙂 Thanks, Pat, for a terrific post!
November 5, 2014 at 2:16 pm
Laura Purdie Salas
I’m super-organized, and I schedule my TIME. But what happens in my writing or daydreaming or whatever chunk of time always veers into the organic, despite my best intentions:>)
November 5, 2014 at 2:21 pm
Aidan Cassie
Very validating – nice knowing that juggling numerous floppy ideas until one solidifies is a perfectly reasonable approach.
November 5, 2014 at 2:21 pm
Hannah Holt
Thanks for sharing Pat! Organic is more premium anyway, right. 😉 Here’s to all the foot hoping, singing, and upside down writing you just inspired. Have a great day!
November 5, 2014 at 2:24 pm
dsi1nyu
I always walk three times around my living room, stand on one foot, hum the “Star-Spangled Banner”, and nothing happens! Then I go clean the cupboards! Voila!
November 5, 2014 at 2:36 pm
Dawn
I think I have (step one) the cranky child thing covered. Funny post. Thanks for sharing.
November 5, 2014 at 2:36 pm
tpierce
Thanks, Pat! You’re living proof that there’s no one way to write. Everyone has their own process 🙂
November 5, 2014 at 2:42 pm
Anne Bromley
Thank you, Pat, for sharing your hilarious “organic” process! I think a huge part of our journey is to find the process that works best for each of us. One size definitely does not fit all.
November 5, 2014 at 2:44 pm
supermario6
I love Sophie ‘s Squash. Thanks for sharing!
November 5, 2014 at 2:51 pm
Rita D. Russell
What a terrific story, Pat. Thanks for the insight into your “organic” process. I love bear stories, and “Wide-Awake Bear” sounds like a winner. I’m looking forward to reading it next spring!
November 5, 2014 at 2:52 pm
julie rowan zoch
I like Pat’s attitude! Quit looking for a structure if you don’t really have one, and keep out the pesticides!
November 5, 2014 at 2:52 pm
brigidoco
Thank you for the wonderfully witty post!
November 5, 2014 at 2:54 pm
LeslieG
Thanks for a great post, Pat. Here’s to organic, free-range writing! :0)
November 5, 2014 at 2:56 pm
kiwiskan
can I please borrow your daughter…
November 5, 2014 at 3:01 pm
Lori Dubbin
I enjoyed peeking behind your WIDE-AWAKE BEAR writing curtain and learning about your organic process. You made me feel relieved that mine is similar. I love SOPHIE’S SQUASH so much I’ve been giving it as a new baby gift!
November 5, 2014 at 3:10 pm
Julie Falatko
I am forever in awe of your ability to take adorable kid incidents and translate them into brilliant picture books! You are amazing.
November 5, 2014 at 3:12 pm
Sandy Perlic
Thanks, Pat, for pulling back the curtain and helping us see that our “randomness” is a legitimate way to write! Looking forward to your next books.
November 5, 2014 at 3:16 pm
Tracy Molitors
Thanks, Pat. I am not much for routine, so I appreciate hearing about someone who can make that work!
November 5, 2014 at 3:31 pm
Julie Hampton
Glad for the reinforcement on the notion that there is not a limited number of approaches to the creative process. As someone who is all over the map, it is nice to find some kindred spirits! Want to echo the value in walking away from a project a bit, and a good excuse to have several going at once!
November 5, 2014 at 3:40 pm
Joanne Roberts
Whew! I feel better. ‘Don’t know whether it was the laughter or the realization that my incredibly chaotic process still qualifies me as a “real” writer. Thanks, Pat and Tara.
November 5, 2014 at 3:46 pm
John Strong
I love that your books are organic! 🙂 Thanks for the insight on the making of one of your books. I love to hear how various stories come about!
November 5, 2014 at 3:50 pm
kirsticall
What a great post, Pat! I’m also a hap hazard writer—we love Sophie’s Squash at our house!
November 5, 2014 at 3:50 pm
Jennifer Sommer
I’ve tried lots of processes and eventually get there…still waiting for the “big one” though!
November 5, 2014 at 4:00 pm
sallymatheny
Knowing that sometimes writing is unprocessed makes me feel better. Also, knowing that good can come out of a kids’ meltdown gives me hope. Loved this–thanks.
November 5, 2014 at 4:01 pm
BLAHM
What an honest and light-hearted approach to giving advice to vulnerable writers! Thank you Pat. I needed it.
November 5, 2014 at 4:02 pm
mkokeefe
Thanks for this lovely post, Pat! P.S. I love Sophie’s Squash! -MK O’Keefe
November 5, 2014 at 4:08 pm
Claire Vita
Thanks Pat! Seems like there are so many different approaches to writing. Thanks for sharing yours. Love your books!
November 5, 2014 at 4:09 pm
Genevieve Petrillo
My dog, Cupcake had better stay out of the way tomorrow morning while I’m walking 3 times around the living room, standing on one foot, and humming the Star Spangled Banner. I cannot be interrupted, now that I know this foolproof formula. Thanks!
November 5, 2014 at 4:12 pm
Elizabeth Cosgriff
This makes me feel better about my own system–er, lack of system.
November 5, 2014 at 4:15 pm
csschwarz
Sure is crazy how everyone has such a different process. Not one way is ‘the’ way. It’s wonderful and maddening at the same time! Thanks for sharing your story!
November 5, 2014 at 4:15 pm
Julene Kinser
Gotta love a gal with a great sense of humor! Thanks for sharing your “process” Pat. 🙂 Isn’t it great that, not only are we all different, but we’re different from one day to the next? Keeps things interesting . . . and challenging.
November 5, 2014 at 4:16 pm
Shawna JC Tenney
I think knowing that a writing process can be organic and haphazardous, and is completely different every time is definitely freeing and empowering. Thanks for the great post!
November 5, 2014 at 4:17 pm
Lynn Becker
Loved Sophie’s Squash and I’m looking forward to reading the next one–and the one after that!
November 5, 2014 at 4:23 pm
Nancy Colle
Ah, Sophie’s Squash , gotta love it! (I even made my hubbie read it)
November 5, 2014 at 4:24 pm
Marcy P.
I love knowing that I’m in good company… that my process can be mine and haphazard… AND that we’re both pesticide-free in our stories. That’s VERY important! 😀 I loved that; it made me giggle. Thanks for letting us “in.” And congrats on Wide-Awake Bear!
November 5, 2014 at 4:29 pm
Linda Moore
Thank your for endorsing “organic”! 🙂
November 5, 2014 at 4:32 pm
Mary Jane
Love this post. Makes me feel better about the ongoing process over the passing of years.
November 5, 2014 at 4:33 pm
jdewdropsofink
Sophie’s Squash is one of my favorite pesticide-free books.
November 5, 2014 at 4:36 pm
Lauren Soloy
Pat, your post made me laugh. I love this, and how you have integrated your writing into your life. Also, Sophie’s Squash is a huge hit at our house with the five and under crowd! I look forward to your next release 🙂
November 5, 2014 at 4:48 pm
mariagianferrari
Fun post, Pat! I’m going to borrow the bear line when I’m in a tired, cranky mood 🙂
I agree–I think the process for every book is a bit different, especially if you write fiction and nonfiction. There isn’t a “right” way, we just have to find what works for us, and for that manuscript.
Thanks!!
November 5, 2014 at 4:50 pm
Jennifer Huls
Pat, I think you have given me an idea – your “organic” approach may make an amusing picture book- could I shadow you for a day to get some ideas ;D
November 5, 2014 at 4:50 pm
Elizabeth Brown
Great post! Very humorous. Love it!
November 5, 2014 at 4:55 pm
teresarobeson
Haphazard or organic, whatever works is *the* way to go! 😀 Thanks for a funny post, Pat!
November 5, 2014 at 4:58 pm
rubineleanor
So many appreciative comments attest to the verve with which you described your process and encouraged others to find their own. Delightful, fun and informative. Thanks!
November 5, 2014 at 5:00 pm
mbeaversillustration
Such a funny, inspirational post… I love organic process, so much better than the chemically aided kind—although I’m such those have their benefits. LOL! Thanks for sharing!
November 5, 2014 at 5:01 pm
Laura
I loved your advice, Pat! Very inspiring!
November 5, 2014 at 5:01 pm
Shirley Menendez
Thanks for your encouraging post. Now I don’t have to worry that I have no set process for writing and no set time to do it. I think it’s more fun that way.
November 5, 2014 at 5:08 pm
Lynnor Bontigao
Having been born in the Philippines but now living in the US, I can sing TWO National Anthems! Thanks for the funny and inspiring post. Sometimes our ideas also need to hibernate. I wonder when will it wake up?
November 5, 2014 at 5:09 pm
alikotanko
Thank you for this post. I have been pretty down since Nov. 1 because I just can’t seem to come up with anything. I think my ideas have to come organically as well 🙂
November 5, 2014 at 5:12 pm
Andrea Allen
Great post! I love the idea of having an “organic” writing style 🙂
November 5, 2014 at 5:12 pm
Amy Houts
Thanks for sharing, Pat! You made me smile.
November 5, 2014 at 5:15 pm
viviankirkfield
Pat…we probably all have a bear story…but you followed through and wrote it…and kept at it. 🙂 Will be happy to get a copy when it come out! I love the golden nugget I’ll take away from this PiBoIdMo post: “As long as you find something that works for you, you’ll be fine.” Thank you for that…great advice. 🙂 🙂
November 5, 2014 at 5:17 pm
Stephan Stuecklin
Hear, hear! Let’s raise our glasses of organic chemicals to this encouraging post!
November 5, 2014 at 5:22 pm
Melanie Ellsworth
Pat, Thanks for your funny post! And for the wonderful Sophie’s Squash. I can sure relate to your “This isn’t so bad” reaction! Sometimes it’s so hard to know when something’s ready to go.
November 5, 2014 at 5:26 pm
Matt Tesoriero
Regardless of one’s “process” for finding the “right way” to write, I would say being part of a critique group is a must do!
November 5, 2014 at 5:33 pm
Darshana
thanks for sharing your “organic” process 😉
November 5, 2014 at 5:42 pm
Amy Courage
I can relate to your writing process….there’s no one “right” way of doing things. It’s a different journey for every story 🙂
November 5, 2014 at 5:49 pm
Julie Durr
I adore your sense of humor. It is wonderful. Many of the ideas I have penned during this PiBoIdMo have directly been influenced by interactions with children in my life. Children are such amazing sources of inspiration. Enjoyed your post. Thank you.
November 5, 2014 at 5:56 pm
Marge Gower
For us haphazard writers I thank you for the confidence in the way we create. We can do away with the guilt of not following someone else’s creative process. Great sense of humor and post.
November 5, 2014 at 5:56 pm
Nadine Gamble
Process? I’m supposed to have a process? thanks for sharing what works for you.
November 5, 2014 at 6:03 pm
Susanne
I wish all meltdowns had such a happy ending.
November 5, 2014 at 6:03 pm
oyjojo
Love that the seed of your child’s inspiration made it to print eventually. I will keep logging the ‘funny stuff my children say’ in the hope they eventually grow a book each.
November 5, 2014 at 6:07 pm
August Washington
Thank you for your lovely post. I needed a smile today 🙂
November 5, 2014 at 6:15 pm
Laurie L Young
Tried standing on one foot and humming the national anthem. Nothing yet . . . 😉
November 5, 2014 at 6:18 pm
Isabelle Barth
I feel like this little bear…. my ideas must have been sleeping in me for a long time and they seem to be pouring out of me…. but are they good enough for a book…. time will tell
November 5, 2014 at 6:36 pm
Kathy Johnson
I think I am more like your “organic” style.
November 5, 2014 at 7:10 pm
Natalie Swiatek
This makes me feel better because when it comes to writing, I’m so haphazard. I also hum America the Beautiful, flush the toilet three times and do the hokey pokey…hasn’t worked…yet.
November 5, 2014 at 7:18 pm
desirae1987
Gotta love the “meh” responses from your writing group! I get them more often than I care to admit. My writing process is pretty “organic” as well, though at times it is somewhat structured. I guess it depends on the type of story I’m writing.
November 5, 2014 at 7:19 pm
Carol Nelson
Thanks for the fun post! I can relate to the constant revising of a story and then not knowing what to do next. 🙂
November 5, 2014 at 7:28 pm
mwebb32
Thank you for your inspiration and your words of wisdom!
November 5, 2014 at 7:33 pm
Nina Haines
I just sang, forgot the one foot. I’m humming now. Waiting. Hope it starts soon.
November 5, 2014 at 7:38 pm
telainamuir
Thank you for sharing your organic method Pat! I often feel so guilty when I read about exercises writers can do, or what another writer is doing, but somehow I can’t pull it off. This makes me feel like my haphazard, oops, organic, method is okay too!
November 5, 2014 at 7:45 pm
apmartin2014
Thank you, Pat, for your honest and inspiring post. I, too, am totally haphazard, but always wondered if I ought to work out a system. Now I know I’m ok as I am 🙂
November 5, 2014 at 7:45 pm
Sian Mole
I think you need to be a little haphazard to write picture books 🙂 Great post
November 5, 2014 at 7:49 pm
Ann Bentley
I loved you’re article.
November 5, 2014 at 7:52 pm
Kathy Doherty
I love SOPHIE’S SQUASH! I typed out the text to read/reread and learn from it. Pat, I’m a BIG fan of your work and your sense of humor. I sat two seats away from you at the SCBWI-WI agent conference months ago. I would have said “hi,” but I was afraid I’d get all giddy like a groupie.
November 5, 2014 at 8:11 pm
Pat Zietlow Miller
Oh, wow! You should have said “hi.” Seriously, next time we’re at an SCBWI event, please do.
November 5, 2014 at 7:56 pm
bangersnmashdesign
Great story, I particularly loved how it took years from start to finish. There is hope for me yet!
November 5, 2014 at 7:57 pm
shirley johnson
Great reminder. Very encouraging post!
November 5, 2014 at 8:04 pm
Gretchen McLellan
I’m organic, too! And haphazard and messy. We could be in a club!
Sent from my iPhone
November 5, 2014 at 8:10 pm
Peter Dargatz
Way to represent SCBWI-WI!
November 5, 2014 at 8:12 pm
Pat Zietlow Miller
Thanks, Peter. It’s a great group of people!
November 5, 2014 at 8:11 pm
jshaklan
Loved hearing how you gradually molded a wonderful tidbit from real life into what sounds like a great story. I can’t wait to read it!
November 5, 2014 at 8:22 pm
Lauri Fortino
Glad to know I’m not the only one with an “organic” or was that haphazard writing process. 🙂
November 5, 2014 at 8:24 pm
lbouck09
Thank you for your words of wisdom! It’s nice to know that you don’t HAVE to have a specific “process” in order to succeed. Thanks for sharing!
November 5, 2014 at 8:29 pm
Norma
Thanks for your encouraging words. You’re a great example of how, in the end, persistence pays off. Good for you.
November 5, 2014 at 8:32 pm
angiekarcher
I love that haphazard works for you too! I’m very much a night writer but there are moments of waking when asleep that give me my best gifts. Great post!
November 5, 2014 at 8:54 pm
Joanne Fritz
It’s so true that everyone’s process is different. Loved this post, especially the humor!
November 5, 2014 at 8:56 pm
becki wilson
This was GREAT! (smiling) It’s kitchen table honesty (with wine?), brimming with wit, humor, trust and permission to embrace who we are, ever-changing with regards to each book’s process and our “style” du jour! Thank you, pzm!
November 5, 2014 at 8:59 pm
Elizabeth Davis
I find each manuscript has its own process. Thanks for the encouragement and validation.
November 5, 2014 at 9:02 pm
Derek Trimmer
I’m standing on one foot typing this reply. When I’m done, I might spin in circles until I fall. Whatever it takes…
November 5, 2014 at 9:05 pm
Carrie Charley Brown
Maybe on one of those procrastination days, I will sing the Star-Spangled Banner on one foot, hopping, rubbing my tummy and patting my head. Who knows… inspiration may strike!
November 5, 2014 at 9:18 pm
Michael Karg
Terrific stuff, Pat! My favorite line in this is “..the muse I’ve conjured…” because although your process may be haphazard at times, it is intentional, not passively waiting for the muse. Happy conjuring!
November 5, 2014 at 9:20 pm
Meredith Pinkstone
Thank you for sharing your unique process!!
November 5, 2014 at 9:20 pm
Jessica
It’s good to know that it works out in the end. Even if it takes what feels like forever.
November 5, 2014 at 9:23 pm
Sandi Lawson
Your post made me smile. Thank you for contributing to Picture Book Idea Month!
November 5, 2014 at 9:23 pm
Prairie Garden Girl
Pat: Haphazard it is! Thank you for sharing six sensational steps filled with inspiration. ~Suzy Leopold
November 5, 2014 at 9:25 pm
Kelly Hochbein
Thank you, Pat! Very helpful and very funny advice!
November 5, 2014 at 9:32 pm
Sharon Giltrow
Thanks Pat very organic process but very important steps
November 5, 2014 at 9:42 pm
Corey Schwartz
Already accomplished Step 1, so I’ll get right to work on Steps 2-6!
November 5, 2014 at 9:43 pm
l8k8
Thanks for sharing your story. It is very interesting the way ideas grow.
November 5, 2014 at 9:48 pm
Lorraine Donohue Bonzelet
I like organic. I like the word ‘Meh.’ I like your persistence. Fun post!
November 5, 2014 at 9:55 pm
Debbie Austin
Hi, Pat! Thanks for sharing your process and for giving us permission to find our own. I love the cover of Wherever You Go. Something tells me that bunny is finding her own way, too!
November 5, 2014 at 10:01 pm
R A Griffin
That was absolutely wonderful! It makes me feel better to know that truley everyone is different. I am a beginner. Thank you for sharing.
November 5, 2014 at 10:04 pm
R A Griffin
Thanks for the encouragement. I’ll let you know how the national anthem thing works out.
November 5, 2014 at 10:09 pm
Vanessa Hatley-Owen
Ha, ha! Love your process – I can totally relate to being ‘organic’! Thanks.
November 5, 2014 at 10:10 pm
Rebecca
I loved reading about your haphazard…err, organic…writing method!
November 5, 2014 at 10:10 pm
Kelly Russell Jaques
Great post. Thanks for the encouragement…
November 5, 2014 at 10:14 pm
Cindy S
Hey Pat,
Thanks for sharing your haphazard style with us. Your success story is so
reaffirming that if we work hard enough we can do it. Here’s to many more successes for you!
November 5, 2014 at 10:17 pm
Cathy Biggerstaff
Thanks for your insight, Pat! You made me smile. Life can’t always be relegated to a set formula.
November 5, 2014 at 10:19 pm
Anne Neidinger
Hooray! Organic! I’m okay! Thanks so much, Pat. Oh beautiful for spacious skies…. hop, hop, hop! 🙂
November 5, 2014 at 10:20 pm
Laura Bellina
Can’t wait to read “Wide Awake Bear”!
November 5, 2014 at 10:22 pm
Tracy
I’m still laughing at your daughter: “I was a hibernating bear” – gotta love those gems! 😀 Thanks so much for sharing your process, I love “organic”.
November 5, 2014 at 10:23 pm
Theresa Love
I think I will stand on one leg and turn around five times – Hey, who knows, it just might work. 🙂 Happy writing everyone – may creativity ooze out of your ears! Cheers!
November 5, 2014 at 10:25 pm
Dawn Young
Great post!
Just write and write and write some more… 😉 Thank you Pat
November 5, 2014 at 10:25 pm
Sue Matzke
Great!
November 5, 2014 at 10:28 pm
Juliana Lee
Love Sophie’s Squash! So does my granddaughter. And I’m genuinely relieved to find out you don’t use pesticides on your stories! 🙂
November 5, 2014 at 10:29 pm
Ashley Bankhead
Love this! Thank you for sharing your writing process for one book. I like how your cranky child inspired the idea for it. 🙂
November 5, 2014 at 10:32 pm
Norene Paulson
Thanks, Pat! I love that you submitted your story even though you weren’t sure it was “ready”. Definitely something I need to emulate.
November 5, 2014 at 10:44 pm
Cate Berry
I love this process! It’s just like mine! Fabulous.
November 5, 2014 at 10:47 pm
Nat Keller
Thanks for the reminder that different things work for different people!!
November 5, 2014 at 10:50 pm
thelogonauts
Love hearing the ‘real’ stories. Thanks for sharing!
November 5, 2014 at 10:58 pm
sardyhar
Organic picture books are delicious! 😉
November 5, 2014 at 10:58 pm
Lill Pluta
Loved this! Thank you!
November 5, 2014 at 11:06 pm
lymartinez
Thank you for letting us peek into your process. I love when life can’t help but work itself into a picture book. And, yes, I also love books without pesticides!
November 5, 2014 at 11:09 pm
Deborah Patz
Great journey! Thanks for the honesty.
November 5, 2014 at 11:10 pm
Lori Mozdzierz
Nice to hear organic works for others too 😀
November 5, 2014 at 11:11 pm
Carrie O'Neill
My process for this month is to fret most of the day about coming up with a story idea. When I finally sit down to read the post of the day, a storyline bubbles to the surface. Thanks for sharing your process!
November 5, 2014 at 11:26 pm
Leah
Great process! (I totally have step #5 nailed). Thank you so much for sharing! And congrats on your upcoming books!
November 5, 2014 at 11:32 pm
laura516
I’m off to conjure my muse! (and then put BIC to do the hard work 🙂
November 5, 2014 at 11:33 pm
Louann Brown
Thanks for sharing Pat. I chuckled out loud reading your post.
November 5, 2014 at 11:38 pm
Julie Murphy
Must learn how to sing Star-Spangled Banner! (I’m an Aussie.) Thanks for the fun post.
November 5, 2014 at 11:38 pm
Nancy Tupper Ling
Yay, Pat!!
November 5, 2014 at 11:45 pm
Meghan Daniels
Ha, ha. I just came up with the same idea today because I was a cranky bear!
November 5, 2014 at 11:50 pm
Laura
This post makes writing children’s books very approachable! Thanks also for the little bits of humor.
November 5, 2014 at 11:58 pm
Patricia Conway
I, too, store cute incidents and funny remarks in my memory but then forget about them until my memory jogs them. Maybe it’s a timing thing.
Sophie’s Squash is lovely and unique, which sets it apart.
November 5, 2014 at 11:59 pm
Naana Kyereboah
Thanks, Pat. I like “be organic”
November 6, 2014 at 12:01 am
Caroline
This is seriously awesome. My process sounds similar, oddly enough. Except I might add a few more instances in there where I look at the manuscript and go, “This is junk!” Then my critique group (hopefully) says, “We like!” Then I look at it and think, “Maybe not junk?” Then work. Then fall in love. Then – almost always – back to “junk!” and hibernate on step 5 for a bit. Hah.
Thanks for this entertaining and encouraging post. Your upcoming books look great!
November 6, 2014 at 12:08 am
jhayslett
Oh, Pat, if only I could hum the SSB — even in the morning, which is when I do my best work. You a such a great inspiration, though!
November 6, 2014 at 12:24 am
Lidia
Loved this post — especially step 1. I have a 3-year old and I’m starting to write down all the funny and introspective things he says. It might just help me write a book 🙂
November 6, 2014 at 12:24 am
Linda Baie
I do different things at different times, guess that’s organic. Thanks for your advice, & I love Sophie’s Squash!
November 6, 2014 at 12:28 am
Kathleen Buckley
Really loved this post! I too am haphazard, I mean, organic in my process. I usually use the word non-linear to describe it. Whatever works!
November 6, 2014 at 12:28 am
Susie Sawyer
Thank you Pat! I love that I don’t have to learn anything new – there is no secret. Yay! Never giving up on your stories might be the best lesson to learn here. 🙂
November 6, 2014 at 12:35 am
Rita Allmon
Pat, thanks, I like your “organic” style (pesticides are a killer every time).
November 6, 2014 at 12:46 am
Ali Pichardo
I enjoyed your blog Pat Zietlow Miller. I will try writing in the morning and at night to see how I do. I will also try your friend’s idea about signing writing time in in the office door. I love that your child’s response gave you an idea for a story. Ideas do show up every where. I look forward to reading your stories.
November 6, 2014 at 12:47 am
Heather Kelso
Thank you for sharing. It is nice to see the progression of an idea becoming a published story. My take away is to really listen to the world around us, it throws out ideas for us to grab, hopefully we are present in the moment so we don’t miss them.
November 6, 2014 at 12:49 am
Diana Delosh
Pat – Thanks for the behind the scenes look of your organic writing process. Mine is pretty loosey goosie and def pesicide free too.
November 6, 2014 at 12:52 am
stephseclecticinterests
I love your pesticide-free process. It makes me smile.
November 6, 2014 at 1:02 am
SevenAcreSky
Pat, thanks for this insight into your process…and the assurance that no process is as perfect for us as our own. It’s what we discover works, and that may mean plunging forward into the process like sailing into a fog.
November 6, 2014 at 1:11 am
Romelle Broas
Haphazard or not, I love your process. It is quite similar to mines. Love that your friend called it ” organic.” Can’t wait to read your future books, Pat. i absolutely adored Sophie’s squash.
November 6, 2014 at 1:15 am
Jenna Woloshyn
your process sounds exactly like mine!
November 6, 2014 at 1:16 am
kimlynnp
Thanks Pat! Loved your story and your inspiration. I look forward to reading WIDE-AWAKE BEAR!! 🙂
November 6, 2014 at 1:24 am
Kaye Baillie
Pat, your description of how you wrote this book is exactly how I like things explained. If people try to explain their processes into one general technique then it’s harder to grasp. I hope you open your curtain again!
November 6, 2014 at 1:31 am
Michelle Kogan Illustration, Painting & Writing
Thanks Pat for a glimpse into your organic writing process! It’s always reassuring to find another kindred spirit who doesn’t follow a specific pattern. Your books are definitely on my list!
November 6, 2014 at 1:40 am
JEN Garrett
Have a cranky child… Yep, that’s where mine come from too. 🙂
November 6, 2014 at 1:55 am
klmcmorranmaus
Thank you for sharing. I have started recording things my children say in hope that there is a story there.
November 6, 2014 at 2:01 am
KJ Bateman
I enjoyed seeing the process of the idea to development to finished product.
November 6, 2014 at 3:36 am
StephMWard
So glad to know that no formal process is a process in itself! Thanks for the very funny post.
November 6, 2014 at 3:44 am
Cassandra Federman
Wonderful post, thanks!
November 6, 2014 at 4:12 am
Kira Kia Fruit Nims
Thank you Pat, this was great. I like to stand on my head for a while to get everything to go to my brain. Not sure yet if it works but we’ll see 🙂
November 6, 2014 at 4:20 am
Dani Duck
I have a child that’s almost four. I can honestly say I’ve never just had a cranky child. I’ve had the demon spawn of all cranky children ever! No seriously, he’s the sweetest kid in the world, but if he wakes up at night, doesn’t get fed enough or just has any of a million things wrong with him… Well WATCH OUT!
I loved your article. I’m haphazard. I’m a night owl. If I wake up early in the morning my kid gets up too. I hope someday I can share my kids insanity with an unsuspecting audience.
November 6, 2014 at 4:25 am
Jill Siegel
Very funny and enjoyable post! Thank you! 🙂
November 6, 2014 at 5:13 am
Rachelle Sadler
Thank you, Pat! Just what I needed to read after a day of lamenting no time to write! Haphazard – I mean, organic – can work too 🙂 Love hearing of your writing process and I wish you continuing success!
November 6, 2014 at 5:41 am
cravevsworld
Thank you for sharing! You make it look so easy or at least enjoyable (which is motivational!)… and I love your sense of humor.
November 6, 2014 at 6:11 am
Margaret Flint Suter
I love this process! I have an entire wall covered in cork tile and about a thousand push pins to stick snippets upon it. Every now and then I go on an adventure of sifting through the musings. Some of it has wonderful promise(I do believe, I do believe, I do believe) and some is dross…but it might become interesting dross! Thanks to you Pat for your honesty and ispiration!
November 6, 2014 at 8:16 am
Loni Edwards (@LoniEdwards)
I’m all about organic! Thank you for sharing your process of creating your book.
November 6, 2014 at 8:22 am
cindyjohnson2013
Thanks for sharing your “process” Pat. I’ve got the cranky kid, a boring plane ride coming up and a critique group unafraid to say “meh.” Now I just need to master those high notes in the Star Spangled Banner without falling over.
November 6, 2014 at 8:55 am
Valarie Giogas
Great ideas. Thanks. I ook forward to Wide Awake Bear even more now. I love the behind the scenes stories.
November 6, 2014 at 9:06 am
Laura J
Thanks for sharing. Love Sophie’s Squash!
Be Organic!!!
Hopefully this posts! Couldn’t get it to before.
November 6, 2014 at 9:13 am
Kathy Cornell Berman
Thanks for the terrific post Pat! It seems your daughter is just as imaginative as you. I loved hearing about your process. I love Sophie’s Squash and look forward to your new books. By the way I absolutely love the cover of “Wherever You Go”. It has such a vintage feel to it and invites the reader right into story.
November 6, 2014 at 9:25 am
QuinnC
I love the waiting and forgetting about part. I have that down pat! Time away from an idea helps it percolate! Thanks!
November 6, 2014 at 10:01 am
Shirley Timberlake Fadden
Two things we have in common: A kid that says unusual things that spark an idea and disappointment at Yellowstone. My disappointment was being with a kid that cried so much we had to leave before old faithful blew. Then I had to drive, trapped in a van, with a screaming kid for an hour. I like your story better. Thanks for the great post!
November 6, 2014 at 10:07 am
Mary Worley
Reading along, sipping my coffee, then got to the part about not using pesticides. Laughing, wiping coffee off my computer. Thanks. Really. 🙂
November 6, 2014 at 10:38 am
holly mclaughlin
Funny post. Thanks for the words of encouragment!
November 6, 2014 at 10:56 am
Sita Singh
Such a fun read Pat! Thanks for making this a different kind of post.
November 6, 2014 at 11:00 am
Kathleen Wilson
Haphazard is such a great plan!
November 6, 2014 at 11:02 am
Erin Nowak
I actually have an app of my phone where I can store my kids’ quotes. I knew it would come in useful f(or more than just this Mom’s nostalgia needs *sniff*) one day!
November 6, 2014 at 11:07 am
Karen
Thank you for this post! It made me smile, and gave me hope.
November 6, 2014 at 11:10 am
colleenrkosinski
Loved your process story.
November 6, 2014 at 11:27 am
Wendi Silvano
I love Sophie’s Squash. Haven’t read Wherever You Go… can’t wait to. Nice post!
November 6, 2014 at 11:32 am
Sara Pistulka Weingartner
Great article. Kids are wonderfully inspirational and don’t even know it! Thanks for sharing and inspiring me! 🙂
November 6, 2014 at 11:40 am
Penny Parker Klostermann
Hi, Pat 🙂 You’re sense of humor is awesome and I love this post! I definitely can’t wait to read ALL of your upcoming books!
November 6, 2014 at 11:57 am
lgalaske
Great post. Thank you for the encouragement!
November 6, 2014 at 12:04 pm
Patricia A Miller
Enjoyed your post, Pat. I like employing your method: let it simmer a while before you look at it again.
November 6, 2014 at 12:18 pm
Paula Cohen-Martin
Excellent. I have blown “haphazard” out of the water! I’m on my way!
November 6, 2014 at 12:22 pm
Janet Halfmann
Love your haphazard process–and your humor–and your amazing kids!
November 6, 2014 at 1:02 pm
Sheri Rad
I am so glad to know there is no one set way to do this or get creative and write. I may have to uncover so old stories I gave up on and try again.
Thanks for the humor.
November 6, 2014 at 1:20 pm
DianeKHower
Haphazard works for me! Thanks for your great post.
November 6, 2014 at 1:37 pm
oceanis723
Thanks for sharing. It’s always nice to hear how published writers got there.
November 6, 2014 at 3:39 pm
jby95
I use the organic process and am healthier for it!
November 6, 2014 at 3:47 pm
ginaperry2013
Thank you so much, Pat. This is just the type of post I needed this month. A healthy dose of reality and encouragement!
November 6, 2014 at 4:54 pm
Rebecca Van Slyke
Pat, I love that you don’t use pesticides in any of your books! 🙂
November 6, 2014 at 6:30 pm
Wendy
Re-working an old story now with hopeful fresh eyes. Thanks for the post.
November 6, 2014 at 6:56 pm
thiskidreviewsbooks
Great post! I love your “process”! 😉
November 6, 2014 at 8:02 pm
trobinsondaly
Thanks for your insider tip! Nice post.
November 6, 2014 at 8:12 pm
Michelle O'Hara Levin
If only the one footed star spangled banner thing worked… sigh.
Thanks for your honesty! SO appreciated.
November 6, 2014 at 8:16 pm
oceanandhope
Inspiring! Thank you! Can’t wait to read your upcoming book. ^^
November 6, 2014 at 8:23 pm
lindamartinandersen
Thanks for the humor and tips about your writing process.
November 6, 2014 at 8:30 pm
zebrakitchens
I enjoyed your thought on this, Pat. I got it. Stay organic and put away the pesticides. There may be a story in that little bugger.
Lynn
November 6, 2014 at 8:31 pm
carolmunrojww
No wonder why I can’t get the electronics in this house to work properly. I’ve been summoning my muse! Pat, I giggled all the way through this post. I so related to it. I guess I not only eat organic, but I work that way, too. Thanks for sharing.
November 6, 2014 at 8:38 pm
Ronna Mandel
I need your daughter! Thanks for this humorous and honest recounting of WIDE-AWAKE BEAR. Looking forward to its publication.
November 6, 2014 at 8:44 pm
wendymyersart
Well, I finally have an official name for my style. It’s Organic. Thanks for the post Pat. Can’t wait to read “Wide Awake Bear”. I’m working on a bear story as well!
November 6, 2014 at 8:45 pm
Pia Garneau
Haphazard=Organic. I dig it. That makes me feel better especially since I don’t religiously set aside time to write. Thank you for this post, Pat.
November 6, 2014 at 9:13 pm
Freckled Daisy Creations
Hanging this post in the studio!
November 6, 2014 at 9:28 pm
RaChelle Lisiecki
Love the honesty, fellow Wisconsinite! Glad to hear there’s absolutely no rush in doing something organically. The harvest is well worth the added effort and challenges. Cheers!
November 6, 2014 at 9:31 pm
Karen A
This is great 🙂 I too have a collection of funny things my children say and they often turn into picture books!
November 6, 2014 at 9:41 pm
Tarryn Lean (@TarrynLean)
Thank you so much for your honesty Pat. As an emerging author who works very ‘organically’ and let my stories flow when they are ready I felt like the odd one out. Every author talk and presentation I have attended (and even online research) has told stories of amazingly elaborate writing processes that made mine feel almost as if I was doing this whole writing thing wrong. Your post helped me see it isn’t wrong, its different and right for me.
November 6, 2014 at 9:54 pm
elle kwan
Well the organic / pesticides story made me laugh out loud, but I also loved the tips at the end. There’s no prescription, as those examples clearly show. Many thanks x
November 6, 2014 at 10:54 pm
Zach Roush
Yay fellow Wisconsinite! Can’t wait to see your latest with Eliza Wheeler illustrating! Thanks for the great post. Very encouraging as I just don’t have anything to “say” somedays.
November 6, 2014 at 10:58 pm
Jenifer McNamara
Yes I think you do need an imagination to be a children’s writer. Good post.
November 6, 2014 at 11:41 pm
megmillerwrites
LOL! I love the glimpse of your process Pat. I too am random, I mean organic. 😀 Thank you!
November 6, 2014 at 11:42 pm
Joan Kassmann
Thank you for sharing your ‘non-process’ – so many rules to follow can really squelch creativity.
November 7, 2014 at 12:02 am
Andrea Poppleton
I love the influence of the writing group! I joined a writing group for the first time back in March. Best thing I ever did. A book I was writing totally changed because of their feedback… for the better!
November 7, 2014 at 9:11 pm
Tracy
Andrea, I hope you don’t mind me asking but is this a local group or online? I belonged to two different groups but both split apart when the sites went down and I haven’t been able to find another one. (and I miss it – I agree that they make a difference – even just having others to connect with)
November 7, 2014 at 12:17 am
Donna Gwinnell Lambo-Weidner
Love your process…reminds me of someone close.
November 7, 2014 at 2:49 am
Angela Turner
When I started about a year ago to really write and learn about writing, I read many authors talk about processes, a lot of which were similar to you. I wasn’t sure what to think at the time. But now as I am writing, my process is very similar. I think creative processes are just meant to be “messy”. Thank you for your thoughts today.
November 7, 2014 at 3:31 am
Pauline Johnson
Love this! Organic for sure. Thank you Pat.
November 7, 2014 at 6:55 am
Rebekah Hoeft
(: I am going to claim that I am organic in all areas of my life!
November 7, 2014 at 9:15 am
nicolezoltack
I definitely have a similar process.
November 7, 2014 at 9:23 am
lmquraishi
The main thing I learned from this post is that you are a very funny writer and I need to go find more of your writing. But the advice you have about following my own process is very sound too. I do some weird combination of your super-organic and your friend’s super-anal (I mean, organized) methodology. My process also appears to be seasonal, and I’ve learned to live with the long arc of ideas and production.
November 7, 2014 at 9:56 am
angeladegroot8
Whatever works, right? And if Sophie’s Squash is anything to go by, your process is a winner.
November 7, 2014 at 10:53 am
Shari Della Penna
Thanks for re-defining my process for me. Organic sounds so much more thought out than what I was calling it…shoulder-shrug.
November 7, 2014 at 11:17 am
Pat
I love love love “Sophie’s Squash!” I’m assuming she was organic too? 🙂 You are so right though, organic, or whatever process works best for you, works fine!
November 7, 2014 at 11:18 am
Gaia
Oh yes, I have an “organic” process too! And now a cranky child. So I’m all set! Great post.
November 7, 2014 at 11:47 am
SMHS
Thanks for the insight to your process for one of your newest books! “Sophie’s Squash” is a favorite for my 3 year old. Do I recall hearing there is a sequel in the works?
November 7, 2014 at 3:51 pm
Pat Zietlow Miller
Yes! SOPHIE’S SEEDS will be out from Schwartz & Wade in fall of 2016. In it, Sophie goes to kindergarten and discovers her classmates don’t immediately see the virtues of having squash friends.
August 3, 2015 at 5:36 pm
Pat Zietlow Miller
Update on the Sophie’s Squash sequel. It will be out in June of 2016, and its new title is SOPHIE ISN’T LONELY.
November 7, 2014 at 12:57 pm
katiemillsgiorgio
You make me smile Pat Zietlow Miller!
November 7, 2014 at 2:08 pm
Laurie J. Edwards
Does your one-foot process work if you’re uncoordinated and fall over when you try it?
November 7, 2014 at 3:49 pm
Pat Zietlow Miller
It must, because I’ve never been able to stand one one foot for very long.
November 7, 2014 at 2:18 pm
Charlotte
Pat,
Thanks for letting us peek behind your writing curtain where we found a “real” mom who writes from her organic garden of experience!
November 7, 2014 at 3:36 pm
Frances Brown
Thanks Pat- I agree with you. Some of my best writing happens first thing in the morning. This organic approach allows me to stay snuggled, I mean working, in bed for longer without feeling guilty. 🙂
November 7, 2014 at 4:26 pm
Joanne Sher
Thank you, ENORMOUSLY, for the laughs (and advice!). Super post!
November 7, 2014 at 4:28 pm
svaisnoras
Love the “organic” label. Works for me.
November 7, 2014 at 6:44 pm
melsul09
Thanks for sharing. I am glad that there is not a specific process but you can write whenever and wherever you are the most inspired.
November 7, 2014 at 7:19 pm
Michelle Fandrich
This may be my favorite post so far for this year. Thanks Pat for the laugh and the inspiration!
November 7, 2014 at 7:29 pm
Britta Beth Jones
This gives me hope. Thank you!
November 7, 2014 at 9:01 pm
Carella Herberger
I love ALL of this advice! Hilarious!
November 7, 2014 at 10:30 pm
Ellen Sirianni
Thanks for sharing. Sophie’s Squash is one of my favorites.
November 7, 2014 at 10:37 pm
angelapadron
Wow! Thank you for sharing.
November 8, 2014 at 12:12 am
Jennifer Rumberger
Thanks for a great post, Pat. Just the inspiration I need! Can’t wait for your upcoming books!
November 8, 2014 at 9:18 am
kroberts24
This is my favorite PiBoIdMo post!
November 8, 2014 at 11:28 am
artistadonna
love this post thank you!
November 8, 2014 at 11:34 am
Lynn Alpert
I’m glad to hear no pesticides were used in creating your books!
November 8, 2014 at 3:07 pm
Meridth Gimbel
Love your funny post. And love your “process” too.
November 8, 2014 at 7:24 pm
Alberto Martín - NiñoCactus
I love your sense of humor. Haphazard is my best friend, it makes me realize things that go unnoticed by others. Thanks.
November 9, 2014 at 3:16 pm
saputnam
Thank you, Pat, for giving us a peek at your writing process. As a writer who flies by the seat of my pants, I guess my writing process would be haphazardly organic! 🙂
November 9, 2014 at 5:47 pm
angiewredhen
What a clever and amusing post. Well done turning a grumpy child’s reaction into a story that most parents can relate with. Thanks for sharing.
November 10, 2014 at 3:26 pm
kirsten percival
Yes! Thanks to this post, I vow to stop worrying that I approach every idea differently and just GO WITH IT! Thank you
November 10, 2014 at 8:44 pm
Karen Brueggeman
Such wonderful ideas….and I love the idea about finding different time of day to write to see which is better.
November 10, 2014 at 10:33 pm
Megan Freeman
Loved this post. Thanks for sharing.
November 11, 2014 at 9:10 am
Cathy Breisacher
Thanks for your inspiring words. Also, I love Sophie’s Squash! What a delightful book. Congratulations on your success. 🙂
November 11, 2014 at 11:53 am
Michelle Cusolito
Ba ha ha. No pesticides in your books. Made me laugh out loud. Love how your humor comes through in this post, Pat.
November 11, 2014 at 9:28 pm
gasamie
Great process. I have #1 and #2 covered so I guess I am well on my way!
November 12, 2014 at 11:02 am
Lisa
Thank you so much for your post, Pat. It helps to remember that some ideas take days, weeks, and even years to develop into a finished story. I love Sophie’s Squash, and Wherever You Go looks beautiful. Can’t wait until it’s out!
November 12, 2014 at 11:55 am
ducks33
I was encouraged to see that some stories take longer to get right than others. Thank you for sharing your story!
November 13, 2014 at 1:43 am
writersideup
Pat, I agree–we do what works best for us, and for me—haphazard is often the trick! And yes, that’s one of the best “kid” lines I’ve heard 🙂
November 13, 2014 at 10:48 am
Jennifer Ali
A sure-fire method would be great, but I’m sure the results would be like Wonder Bread. Haphazard is the un-rule!
November 14, 2014 at 11:13 am
Kelly Parker
Would be great if there was some sort of secret formula, then again, maybe picture books wouldn’t be as special then if they all made it 🙂
November 14, 2014 at 5:35 pm
winemama
Thanks for the post, I’ve been meaning to read Sophie’s Squash
November 15, 2014 at 10:18 am
donnacangelosi
Your post is wonderful…just like Sophie’s Squash (which is one of my favorite PBs!!) Thank you, Pat!
November 15, 2014 at 11:03 am
DaNeil
Love your process and I love Sophie’s Squash. Thank you for your post and advice.
November 16, 2014 at 4:17 pm
bucherwurm65
I love your post! “Organic” works for me most days. Some days I must put myself in time-out in my writing chair until I quit procrastinating and get to work!
November 16, 2014 at 6:48 pm
Dianne Burch
Pat, thank you for taking the scary out of trying to be a perfect writer, Now I never have to worry that I’m not “doing this right”. And BTW, Sophie’s Squash is brilliant!!!!!
November 16, 2014 at 10:56 pm
Anna Levin
Thank you for the great ideas!
November 17, 2014 at 2:39 pm
Emily Goldstein
Thank you!
November 18, 2014 at 1:47 pm
teresa m.i. schaefer (@TMISchaefer)
i’d be willing to try these six steps — even the cranky child part. (tho, briefly) 😉
November 19, 2014 at 9:13 pm
writeknit
Love the inspiration – now to begin the preparation – which leads to perspiration….. 🙂
November 24, 2014 at 11:10 pm
Rick Starkey
It’s so true that each person has their own way of working, but I love hearing the process of others. Thanks.
November 25, 2014 at 2:10 pm
lisakwillard
Pat, Thank you for sharing your story. I’ll be listening to cranky people in a new way.
I love Sophie’s Squash!
November 26, 2014 at 3:13 am
Jessica @ Play Trains!
Thank you for sharing the story of your book! Very inspiring to someone who is similarly haphazard. I can’t wait to read it.
November 26, 2014 at 3:17 pm
angelapenadahle
what beautiful illustrations on those covers! Can’t wait to read the text.
November 28, 2014 at 2:38 pm
KASteed
It’s encouraging to hear, be haphazard (or organic). Thank you. Look forward to reading your next book!
November 28, 2014 at 10:38 pm
LL
Haphazard aka the scientific process in some circles. Cute.
November 29, 2014 at 11:57 pm
majanecka
What an adorable story to share! Yes, some of the cutest ideas come right from an interaction with a child.
November 30, 2014 at 10:24 am
Brook Gideon
LOL to no pesticides! Thanks for the process telling, even is it’s not mine, I love hearing and seeing other’s processes, it can always tip off an idea to make my process better and still be mine!
November 30, 2014 at 1:26 pm
Rosie Pova
Very helpful, thank you!
November 30, 2014 at 3:11 pm
Marissa Walsh
Thank you for this helpful advice! I especially like the bit about finding what works for you, and letting something sit for a bit. Excited to check out your books!
November 30, 2014 at 8:57 pm
Nancy Kotkin
I’m still experimenting to discover my own “process” so it’s nice to know that other writers don’t necessarily have it all nailed down either. Thanks!
December 1, 2014 at 12:03 am
Colleen Kelley
I love your honesty and sense of humor, Pat.
December 1, 2014 at 12:50 am
Caroline Lee Webster (@uncoverthepearl)
I loved hearing your step-by-step process:-) for your bear book and how every book has a different story behind it. Thank you for sharing.
December 1, 2014 at 12:56 am
Jason Perkins
great post. Congrats on the sale.
December 1, 2014 at 5:38 am
Andrea J Loney
Great post. And whenever I see a squash at the market, I immediately think “Sophie!”
December 5, 2014 at 2:19 am
angelcat2014
Good to know that everyone has a different process and that sometimes it is different for each book.
January 12, 2015 at 1:58 am
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