This month has been a brilliant crash course in Picture Book Ideas 101. Here it is day 27 and by now you have a myriad of ideas (or one) that you’re excited about. What’s next? How do you begin to flesh out these ideas and keep your enthusiasm up?
Taking classes and doing things like PiBoIdMo rearranges how I think about what I’m doing. A number of years ago, wanting to learn more about collage, I took a class. Adding collage to my art was fun, with the right amount of devil-may-care messiness. It felt like playing—pushing bits of torn paper, letting interesting juxtapositions happen. As the class was winding down, the students wondered how could we bring this same sense of ease back into our studio work. Being in the studio felt like I was supposed to accomplish something. Could something this easy count as “work”? Our teacher said to us, “If you’re in your studio, you’re working.” Whoa! Even when you’re sitting around drinking tea and looking at picture books? Yep. What a great concept! But was it true?
Soon after taking that class, my editor agreed on a picture book idea I had proposed to write and illustrate. My foray as an author was to rewrite Little Red Riding Hood, a story with a ready-made plot. I named my main character Carmine, after the purpley-red color.
The day came when (with a contract signed and dated), I had to begin. I sat at my desk and wrote: “Once upon a time a girl named Carmine…” Hmmm. What was Carmine going do? Who were the other characters? How would she get to Granny’s? I was stumped. A few more forgettable sentences followed. That was enough writing for one day.
Was I working? I was in my studio, so, yes. As I was doing it, it was impossible to know if each exercise would be useful, but it didn’t matter.
After playing, there was more to write about.
Months later, still moving at a glacial pace on Carmine, I made a list of 100 random words that I like: nincompoop, reckon and zillion and attempted to write the story using all 100 words–just as an exercise. It didn’t work at all, but I noticed I had the entire alphabet within that list. I plucked out those words and wrote the story as an alphabet book, (or an abecedarian–a subject told in alphabetical order).
Voila!, CARMINE: A LITTLE MORE RED came to life.
Later, when I was writing Balloons Over Broadway, I made toys and puppets to get to know Tony Sarg better.
More recently I gathered snippets of fabric to inspire the color palette of my next book making a Pinterest-esque wall, but in real time.
Pinned to that wall is this quote that gives me permission to do whatever I need to do when I begin to write or make art:
“I believe that the so-called ‘writing block’ is a product of some kind of disproportion between your standards and your performance … one should lower his standards until there is no felt threshold to go over in writing.
It’s easy to write. You just shouldn’t have standards that inhibit you from writing …I can imagine a person beginning to feel he’s not able to write up to that standard he imagines the world has set for him. But to me that’s surrealistic. The only standard I can rationally have is the standard I’m meeting right now … You should be more willing to forgive yourself. It doesn’t make any difference if you are good or bad today. The assessment of the product is something that happens after you’ve done it.”
—William Stafford, writer
What’s next for me is printing out the piboidmo posts and putting them in a notebook. I want to revisit them at my leisure far away from the black hole of my computer.
Then I’m headed to the studio where I’ll take my mom’s advice, as she told us a zillion times:
“Now, you kids go out and play!”
.
Melissa Sweet has illustrated many award-winning books. She wrote and illustrated CARMINE: A LITTLE MORE RED, a New York Times Best Illustrated, TUPELO RIDES THE RAILS and BALLOONS OVER BROADWAY which garnered the 2012 Sibert Medal. She illustrated A RIVER OF WORDS: The Story of William Carlos Williams, by Jen Bryant, a 2009 Caldecott Honor book. Jen and Melissa’s next book, A SPLASH OF RED: The Life and Art of Horace Pippen will be out January, 2013.
She collages up a storm in Rockport, Maine. See more at MelissaSweet.net.
Melissa is generously giving away a SWEET prize pack! You are eligible if you comment here *and* complete the 30-ideas-in-30-days challenge by taking the PiBo-Pledge in early December. You can win a signed copy of BALLOONS OVER BROADWAY, CARMINE: A LITTLE MORE RED, A Splash Of Red coloring pencils, plus whatever SWAG she can find. Remember, one comment per person. And good luck!
225 comments
Comments feed for this article
November 27, 2012 at 12:17 am
Elisa Robinson (@elisaitw)
This was just what I needed right now. The reminder to play! Thank you-
November 27, 2012 at 12:22 am
Jennifer Lorrekovich
I love the idea that working can be playing. Thank you!
November 27, 2012 at 12:31 am
janelle
Love it!
November 27, 2012 at 12:31 am
Cheryl
Thanks for the great suggestions!
Cheryl
November 27, 2012 at 12:37 am
Anjali Amit
Thank you. Your post gives us permission to play without guilt.
Anjali
November 27, 2012 at 12:47 am
Rachel Smoka-Richardson
Thank you for your inspiring words and the reminder to have fun while working!
November 27, 2012 at 1:08 am
Carol Nelson
Thank you. This post came at the perfect time. I was wandering around my office trying to think of another PB idea when I heard the email come in. Yea! a distraction. Then I read the post and figured out that I’ve been “working” too hard. I need to spend more time playing with my ideas. I love the quote from William Stafford too. It’s time to quiet the inner voice and play!
November 27, 2012 at 1:03 am
Lisa Thompson
I needed to read that post today! Too high expectations and not enough play…thank you.
November 27, 2012 at 1:13 am
Talynn Lynn
I may take this idea to heart in the morning. For the first time this month, I’m stuck. Maybe it’s the holiday and my mind switching to families and food rather than writing. But I’m two ideas behind. I did think of an idea tonight, but not the right age group, so I think I’ll pull out the art material tomorrow and try something new. Thanks for the inspiration tonight!!
November 27, 2012 at 1:25 am
Talynn Lynn
I’m wondering. You’ve selected winners for several of this months posts. Where ate the list of winners posted?
Thanks!
Talynn
November 27, 2012 at 1:26 am
Talynn Lynn
Sorry about the typo. Cell phone keys are pretty tiny:)
November 28, 2012 at 12:07 am
viviankirkfield
Talynn…I think the winners won’t be selected until after PiBoIdMo is over…and the participants take the ‘pledge’ that they have completed 30 ideas…at least that’s my understanding. 🙂
November 27, 2012 at 1:20 am
The Backdoor Artist - Mary Livingston
It’s official…I played all day 🙂
November 27, 2012 at 1:24 am
Jennifer Reynolds
I am literally enthralled with your creativity. I’m trying to rewrite a fairy tale and your creative ideas with Little Red Riding Hood has made me realise I need to get more creative. Thanks so much.
November 27, 2012 at 1:38 am
Kerry Mazengia
What fun to see a post from you! I was lucky enough to attend my first SCBWI conference last April here in Redmond, WA – the theme was Balloons Over Broadway – and the art of course was yours. It was a wonderful memory to re-visit tonight with your post. Thank you for your inspiring words and your fun illustrations.
November 27, 2012 at 1:43 am
Sharon Nix Jones
Thank you for the permission to play.
November 27, 2012 at 1:48 am
Larissa
I love this post! Just get out and play…great advice.
November 27, 2012 at 1:57 am
Juliet Clare Bell
Thank you. What beautiful collage.
November 27, 2012 at 2:10 am
Yvonne Mes
Your post gave me a sense of freedom to be silly and play words. And left me itching to gather scraps and glue.
November 27, 2012 at 2:15 am
Dee Almond
I’ve been making a list of words I like. Now I know why. Thanks for the encouragement.
November 27, 2012 at 2:17 am
Lynn Anne Carol
Melissa, I love your idea of play. Especially playing as you make collage’s.
A friend once told me that Charles Schultz often sat still and did nothing. When people came in the room they asked what he was doing. He said working. I never doubt my creativity in the still moments. (Except when I’ve eaten too much turkey)
Thanks for sharing. I can’t wait to read Carmine.
November 27, 2012 at 2:25 am
juliebehm
Loving this post, it was what I needed to hear. Thank you!
November 27, 2012 at 2:31 am
Nancy Armo
Love using the list of favorite words!
November 27, 2012 at 2:33 am
Romelle Broas
I am so excited about the giveaway! Melissa, you are so talented. I love that you take your time with your stories and let it evolve.
November 27, 2012 at 2:37 am
Susan Cabael
You’ve reminded me how fortunate I feel that browsing in a bookstore truly is work!
November 27, 2012 at 2:38 am
tinamariecho@yahoo.com
So sipping hot cocoa and reading “writerly” blogs would be considered part of my work!! Thanks, Melissa! Your collage illustrations are so fun!
November 27, 2012 at 2:53 am
Gary Masskin
Thank you for sharing the behind-the-scenes process and the quote on writer’s block.
November 27, 2012 at 3:23 am
Catherine
I love the 100 random words idea, it’s all about wordplay here with my four year old. Thank you for the suggestion Melissa.
November 27, 2012 at 5:25 am
kikimoo
Thanks for the great post, Melissa! I’ve been taking a few classes and the ones that are the most fun seem almost too self-indulgent…
Perfect reminder that fun is exactly what I need to get the job done 🙂
November 27, 2012 at 5:32 am
cat jones
Your post had a really relaxed feel to it 🙂 very freeing…
I’m def. gonna try the 100 words exercise, maybe even today! And I was planning on mooching in the bookshop, reading some pic. books. Nice to know I’ll be working. And today I will make time for some play too. All in all a fabulous post. Thanks so much for sharing.
November 27, 2012 at 5:45 am
mona
Thanks, Melissa. Love this post. Maybe it’s because I have no trouble ‘gong out to play”. My mother always said, “settle down to business,” so there is a happy medium there, somewhere!
I think I’ll play your word game this morning.
As I’m writing this, I’m thinking of when I met you, but didn’t know who you were until you left with a handful of flowers-you looked lovely that day wearing a pretty green scarf. Thinking back, I should have “thrust” a picture book story at you. I know you would’ve love to have illustrated it!-Okay, just playing again, but have my first word-thrust. And another one-winner. I’d love to be one.
November 27, 2012 at 5:45 am
Lori Mozdzierz
Colorful words are a wonderous thing!
November 27, 2012 at 5:49 am
CW
Playing is great! Everyone needs this reminder from time to time!
November 27, 2012 at 6:04 am
Sheri Dillard
Okay, let’s play today! Yay! 🙂
November 27, 2012 at 6:16 am
awritersdream41
Thanks for that shot of inspiration…I will go out and play, no excuses.
November 27, 2012 at 6:21 am
Donna Martin
It’s nice to know, Melissa, that I’m not the only one to archive all the great posts we get through PiBo to use as a reference source all throughout the year…;~)
Lovely post!
Donna L Martin
November 27, 2012 at 6:29 am
rlkurstedt
You ever now what will spark an idea and stick-so you might as wll e saving fun. BTW-I love Balloons Over Manhattan.
November 27, 2012 at 6:37 am
Robyn Campbell
Thank you so much! This is my new motto! >“Now, you kids go out and play!” I loved what you said that when you’re drinking tea and reading picture books you’re working. SWEET! 🙂
November 27, 2012 at 6:41 am
Elaine Kearns
I can’t wait to play! Thanks for such an inspirational post!
November 27, 2012 at 6:54 am
Ramona
I love the freehand style of your work and your idea of a list of 100 random words that you like. I am must try that! Thanks for the idea 😀
November 27, 2012 at 7:00 am
The Ink Pond
Yea! Fairytale rewrites. I love the creative process and using words that you like to come up with ideas-fabulous! I have my story idea for today already in my notebook! Thank you, thank you!
Tia Svardahl, The Ink Pond
November 27, 2012 at 7:14 am
Kathy
Love your writing process. I am trying to write a picture book for a writing class and feel rushed. I’m thinking I need to turn in what I have with a note of revision (play) is needed!
November 27, 2012 at 7:15 am
Alison Kolesar
I love using collage too – such wonderful unexpected things happen. And I love your work. I think that permission to play must be part of what gives it its vibrancy.
November 27, 2012 at 7:18 am
Valarie Giogas
This may well be my mantra to ME now, vs my kids (go out and play)! Thank you.
November 27, 2012 at 7:18 am
Anne Bielby
I have been “playing” at computer collage. Thanks for letting me know that’s work. I love your Balloons over Broadway Collage. How did you photograph it?
November 27, 2012 at 7:25 am
thiskidreviewsbooks
Amazing! I want to read “Carmine”! 🙂
November 27, 2012 at 7:27 am
White Wolf Studio
Very nice post. I give myself permission to play with my art but feel my writing should be more serious. You just gave me permission to play with my words and for that, thank you very much.
November 27, 2012 at 7:28 am
Daryl Gottier
Thank you. It’s supposed to snow today, I can’t wait to go out and play in it…
November 27, 2012 at 7:31 am
Melissa Sweet
Wow, it’s only 7:26am here and you all are inspiring me. Good luck to all of you. Have fun today.
November 27, 2012 at 7:40 am
erin o'brien
I love your work, Melissa. Thank you for the inspiration!
November 27, 2012 at 7:43 am
Beth Gallagher
LOVE your books, Melissa! And fab advice on “playing through a block”. Thanks for a great post and for the chance to win!
November 27, 2012 at 7:48 am
Alexa
Gorgeous work! Love that William Stafford quote. Rings true for me today!
November 27, 2012 at 7:49 am
Joan Waites
Terrific advise coming for me at just the right time. I’m planning on doing a mixed media collage with my art students today and will have fun doing one for myself too. Thanks for the wonderful blog post!
November 27, 2012 at 7:50 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
My handy husband makes many, many trips to Home Depot. He knows he can find me waiting for him in the paint chip section, dreaming about future room colors. Next time I will bring a handy dandy notebook and see if any PiBoIdMo ideas are hiding in the color charts! Thanks Melissa – very inspiring and beautiful post.
November 27, 2012 at 7:56 am
mikelaprevost
Just so you know, you are a bit of a rockstar in my kids’ eyes. “The Sleepy Little Alphabet” is in a sad state from the love of 2 toddlers and a seven year old. Thank you for making letters funny and personable and thank you for reminding us that work can be fun.
November 27, 2012 at 7:58 am
Ellen L. Ramsey
I love your shades of red–what exquisite colors! And I’m very fond of collage. My mom was an art teacher and collage was her favorite medium. Think I’ll play with collage and PiBoIdMo ideas!
November 27, 2012 at 8:04 am
gayleckrause
Thank you, Melissa. You’ve inspired me with your collage. I think I’ll make a colorful collage of my own, not by painting, but by listing colorful words I can use in a manuscript.
November 27, 2012 at 8:12 am
Sue Poduska
Thanks for reminding us one of the reasons we do this is that it’s fun. Now, go play!
November 27, 2012 at 8:15 am
Marcy P.
I love this! It makes me want to go throw around some paint and glue and colorful paper and… just be. I get to do that with my kids sometimes (when I’m pretending to be a good mommy who is playing along… when really, I WANT to be playing along! 🙂
November 27, 2012 at 8:16 am
Therese Nagi
Enjoyed reading your post and learning to have with the creative process of writing! I really like that having fun and playing with creative ideas is considered work too!
November 27, 2012 at 8:34 am
Gail Kamer
Great ideas!!! Thanks so much!
November 27, 2012 at 8:41 am
Pat Haapaniemi
Love your post, especially your comment about what you’ve put on your wall regarding writer’s block!
November 27, 2012 at 8:42 am
Sharon Putnam
I love your advice to just go out and play!! There is a site that I use to make dolls of all my characters as it helps to see what they look like… and I have a blast playing with it before I settle on a final look for that particular character
http://elouai.com/doll-makers
November 27, 2012 at 8:45 am
DaNeil Olson
Carmine: A Little More Red is one of my favorite books! I discovered it when I took over as the librarian at the school where I was teaching and fell it love with it. I love sharing it with students because of the rich vocabulary and delightful pictures. Thank you for your inspiring words.
November 27, 2012 at 8:47 am
Andrea
I love your illustrations – they make me want to get out some art materials! Even better, I think I’ll show them to my kindergarten students to inspire them!
What you said about playing around is so important. I think that if the story or art emerges from being creative and having fun, that will come through to the reader/viewer.
November 27, 2012 at 8:47 am
Kirsten Larson
Thanks for giving us permission to play, Melissa. Normally my “play” is research or reading PBs or even going to a museum. But I’ve never thought of playing with my writing. Incidentally, BALLOONS OVER BROADWAY came up in a Thanksgiving conversation among writers. I can’t watch the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade without remembering that beautiful book.
November 27, 2012 at 8:52 am
barb
Love your art. It is so creative and fun. I have never read one of your books, but am going to check as many as I can from the library. Love the attitude you shared about work. I want to see my work as play in all I do, even when i am not at work. Thanks for the inspiration.
November 27, 2012 at 8:54 am
Jennifer Faragitakis
Great suggestions! Thanks!
November 27, 2012 at 8:58 am
Doreen E. Lepore
Thanks – going out to play now!
November 27, 2012 at 9:01 am
Carolyn
Your color concept definately inspired me. Thanks
November 27, 2012 at 9:12 am
aneducationinbooks
A wonderful post! And I loved A River of Words, so I’m looking forward to reading the other two books of Melissa’s mentioned on this post.
November 27, 2012 at 9:13 am
Jenn Bower
This was so exactly what I needed right now…permission to play, to forgive myself and to lower the threshold. Super advice.
November 27, 2012 at 9:16 am
MaryZ
Melissa, I’ve been a big fan of your work for many years. I especially love Tupelo! I was struck by how you’ve helped yourself grow as an artist–how taking a class opened up a new door for you. We all need to play and, yes, it is work. The quote you posted hit a nerve for me since I’m struggling with a manuscript because it doesn’t measure up to what I see as the high standard. An inspiring post from start to finish!
November 27, 2012 at 9:25 am
Laura Hamor (@LauraHamor)
YES!! I am in the process of updating, redoing, re-playing my portfolio! Playing and re-playing has energized my work! Melissa, you are a great inspiration!
November 27, 2012 at 9:27 am
Lisa Anchin
Yay for playing! I love how fun and spontaneous your work feels. I am definitely going to spend today playing and making a mess on my drawing table.
November 27, 2012 at 9:33 am
Robert Weinstock
Melissa,
Your mother did something right b/c the sense of play in your work is totally infectious! How you sustain that air of looseness and joy is a wonder.
November 27, 2012 at 9:43 am
Lori Alexander
Your work is beautiful! My kids are big fans of BALLOONS OVER BROADWAY. Thanks for the lovely post.
November 27, 2012 at 9:54 am
Natasha
I reckon not quite a zillion (but lots) of artistic nincompoops are encouraged by the realization they are not nincompoops after all. Thank you and hooray. We simply needed to be reminded to go out and play!
November 27, 2012 at 9:55 am
sharann
Holy cannoli! This post was so rich with advice and inspiration it almost made me sick. In a good way, of course. Grazzii!
November 27, 2012 at 9:56 am
loriannlevyholm
I am always playing around with stuff and never related it to work. I need to give myself permission to ‘work’ more often! Thank you for the great post and for sharing your thought process!
November 27, 2012 at 9:57 am
Carol Munro
What a great idea — an acrostic picture book! I can’t wait to read it. Thanks for reminding us to think “play” when we go to work.
November 27, 2012 at 10:00 am
Laura S.
Thanks for this wonderful post. I’m off to play with words right now!
November 27, 2012 at 10:04 am
B.J. Lee
Brilliant post! I completely agree with you on the ‘no felt threshold.’ That’s very liberating!
November 27, 2012 at 10:06 am
Angela De Groot
I love this – speaks to me on so many levels. Thank you.
November 27, 2012 at 10:12 am
Dorothy Wiese
Your comments about letting go of your standards when writing hit home. Thanks.
November 27, 2012 at 10:13 am
Patricia Holloway
Melissa, what great suggestions you provided. I can’t wait to read Carmine, a little more red. Thanks for the inspiration and freedom.
November 27, 2012 at 10:14 am
Amanda Smith
Thanks for the reminder that I am working when I am in my studio (or study); That work also includes doodles on paper, not just word counts!
November 27, 2012 at 10:17 am
Holly
Great ideas! It’s fascinating to me to read how others’ ideas evolved and shaped up over time. Thanks for sharing.
November 27, 2012 at 10:19 am
Laura Thieman
You remind me of how much we adults have to learn from how children play!!
November 27, 2012 at 10:26 am
Frizz
love, love, love, love, love her work!
That’s exactly where I am with my art…I vow to only create stuff that is fun to make. I am going off to play now…
November 27, 2012 at 10:27 am
Judy Cox
Thanks for the reminder to play! My best books have come out of that same playful state; but sometimes I forget.
I just read River of Words and Balloons Over Broadway in preparation for a picture book biography of my own. I love your art and also (in Balloons) the way you kept me turning the pages as I read the story. Your book is a great example of how to create suspense, and page turns, in a non-fiction picture book.
November 27, 2012 at 10:36 am
Melanie Ellsworth
Thanks for the William Stafford quote. And I love the reminder that we get our work done through play. Sometimes I feel I should be at my desk when instead I’m out walking the dog, but that is when some of my most interesting ideas come to mind. My 3-year-old daughter enjoys finding the spider in the clock in your -Naptime, Laptime- illustrations. I look forward to reading -Tupelo Rides the Rails- with her also, and then we’ll have to put more of your books on our reading list. Maybe we’ll be fortunate enough to meet you one of these days at the library, as we’re your neighbors in Warren, Maine!
November 27, 2012 at 10:36 am
Dawnyelle Moore
There is so much to respond to I don’t think I can sum it up! Thank you! I will go make a mess! and I will remember that playing is working-when you have a job like mine-illustrator, teacher, artist, mom-Now who’s with me?
November 27, 2012 at 10:36 am
Ashley Bankhead
Thanks for the post. I need to go and play. One never knows what will happen when one is having fun.
November 27, 2012 at 10:43 am
Catherine Johnson
What a lovely story. I feel better now about all the work talk at the bus stop and the “So what are you doing today?” I get *sigh*
November 27, 2012 at 10:47 am
Laura Anne Miller
Melissa – this was wonderful, refreshing, regenerative!! Thank you!! I love your process and creativity with planning your stories. I’ve not seen your ‘Red’ book – but will seek it out!!
November 27, 2012 at 10:48 am
Marcie Colleen
Thank you, Melissa. Great post! That William Stafford quote really speaks to me. For some reason I always get caught up in analyzing and judging my work as I am creating it. Recently I have started to battle this urge, but it has been difficult. Thanks for all of the reminders and encouragement.
November 27, 2012 at 10:50 am
Annie Silvestro
Thanks for the inspiring post! My son was inspired to make his own marionette after reading BALLOONS OVER BROADWAY this Thanksgiving. So thanks from all of us 🙂
November 27, 2012 at 10:52 am
Jill Proctor
I am giving myself permission to lower my threshold and go out and play! Thank you, Melissa! You just took the stress out of my writing. We’ll see how long it lasts. 🙂
November 27, 2012 at 10:57 am
Jenn DesAutels Illustrator
Oh, what a lovely word collage!!
November 27, 2012 at 10:59 am
Maria Gianferrari
Thank you, Melissa, for the reminder to play! I LOVE your artwork–it’s so whimsical, moving and inspiring!
I will take your advice to heart, and try to play with the revision that I’m stuck on. Since I’m only a writer (not an illustrator), I tend to shy away from trying to create visually, though I am a very visual person. But I have to do holiday shopping tomorrow, so I’m going to buy some supplies and dive right in.
And I have a new idea for today too!
Thanks!
November 27, 2012 at 10:59 am
Buffy Silverman
Thanks for permission to play!
November 27, 2012 at 10:59 am
reneekurilla
I love your work, Melissa! Thanks so much for sharing your thought process. Now you’ve got me thinking about trying to find a good oil painting class…!
November 27, 2012 at 11:01 am
Sue Heavenrich
Thanks for the inspiration! I love collage, and random weird words? Awesome! Brazenly Clever! It’s like I have some new toys to play with…
November 27, 2012 at 11:02 am
Stephanie Shaw
On an 11 hour drive today. This is a great post to think about along the way. Thank you, Melissa!
November 27, 2012 at 11:03 am
Linda B
You’ve inspired me. I’ve allowed myself a break from writing when I get stuck on a particular project to work on something else creative usually scrapbooking, crocheting, or some type of craft project. I never thought about making the craft relate to the project to help me out of my rut. Thank you!
November 27, 2012 at 11:03 am
laurieajacobs
Thanks so much for the post. I’m going to print out that quote from Stafford and add it to my writing wall.
November 27, 2012 at 11:13 am
daniela weil
well said. awesome quotes. thanks for teaching us about the permission. and super idea about printing the pibo posts. thank you thank you thank you.
November 27, 2012 at 11:16 am
Rebecca Van Slyke
“Now you kids go out and play.” What wonderful advice!
November 27, 2012 at 11:16 am
Becky Hall
Wow! You just gave me so many great ideas and I am so grateful for your post. Best wishes for a great play day!
November 27, 2012 at 11:27 am
Susan Halko
The “writer’s block” quote is very helpful. Thank you!
November 27, 2012 at 11:31 am
Rebecca Walton Evans
some cool ideas on how to get past that block we all have sometimes, thanks!
November 27, 2012 at 11:31 am
Hilary Leung
Super inspiring advice!
November 27, 2012 at 11:31 am
katmaz2012
Thank you for the colors and the inspiration.
November 27, 2012 at 11:54 am
carrie a. pearson
I love this line from your post: “A few more forgettable sentences followed.” Ha. This gave me permission to write drivel.
November 27, 2012 at 11:56 am
Jacqueline Adams
I appreciate the thought that “it was impossible to know if each exercise would be useful, but it didn’t matter.” Sometimes it’s tough giving myself permission to do an exercise if I’m not sure it’s going to pan out. I guess I need to play more!
November 27, 2012 at 12:01 pm
robinsinger
Thanks for the wise words. It is sometimes difficult to convince myself that my brainstorming might actually lead to something!
November 27, 2012 at 12:04 pm
berylreichenberg
I recently had a conversation with a friend about “hitting the brick wall”, my rendition of writer’s block. Like you, I find putting the piece aside and working on something else that’s fun and giving myself permission to play, gets me over the wall. Then I can come back to the piece with fresh eyes and fresh ideas. I’m reminded of a cute story in print about a boy who makes a monster for his grandmother who is a writer. The monster is to scare away her writer’s block. Thanks for reminding us that we can all have fun. Beryl
November 27, 2012 at 12:11 pm
Ashley N. Bohmer
I love how you defined “Writers Block!’ And now that I know exactly what it is I’ll know how to attack it. Good-Bye standards…It’s time to go out and play! 🙂
November 27, 2012 at 12:18 pm
Joanne Roberts
Wow. I was so terrified for November to end. I was afraid I would not know what to do next. Thank-you for the inside look at some of your creative ways of moving onto the next stage.
November 27, 2012 at 12:18 pm
Cindy Breedlove
Hi Ho, Hi Ho, It’s off to play I go!
November 27, 2012 at 12:21 pm
heylookawriterfellow
I am so late to check in on PiBoIdMo, but now I can revel in 27 posts. My day is planned. Thanks, Tara!
This was a great guest post — and Carmine is a beautiful book!
And Melissa’s message is spot on: You’re never too old for a playdate.
November 27, 2012 at 12:45 pm
Diana Delosh
Love your Artwork or should I say Artfun? Here’s to more fun in the studio and less angst.
November 27, 2012 at 12:46 pm
Sheila Wipperman
Love this idea! Excited to play and have fun with writing! Thanks for all your great suggestions. 🙂
November 27, 2012 at 12:47 pm
Sally Matheny
It was encouraging to hear about your slow start being “enough writing for one day!” Nice to know even the best of authors have days with “glacial” writing progress. Your well-rounded thinking and writing processes enlighten me. Perhaps there is hope for me yet. Thanks for sharing!
November 27, 2012 at 12:48 pm
Grace
No time for play. With a newly released book, my account manager at the publisher tells me I should work hard at marketing the books right now and take advantage of the busy holiday season.\The link to my book
http://www.friesenpress.com/bookstore/title/119734000005869692/Heather-Radford-The-Asquinn-Twins%3A-Frontier-Life
November 27, 2012 at 1:20 pm
redheadedstepchild64
It’s hard to remember that playing IS working! We’re so used to have to have a great finished product, we often times forget how important the actual act of experimenting is to the process. Thanks for the reminder!
November 27, 2012 at 1:22 pm
Elizabeth Rose Stanton
The William Stafford quote now sits on MY studio wall. I am completely inspired by this post. Thank you!
November 27, 2012 at 1:25 pm
bucherwurm65
Thank you so much for giving me permission to daydream on the couch in my writing space and call it work!
November 27, 2012 at 1:29 pm
maria johnson
SWEET!!!!
November 27, 2012 at 1:31 pm
Michelle Proper
“Abecedarian!” Thanks for the new word of the day!
November 27, 2012 at 1:39 pm
LeslieG
Love this post, & love Melissa’s artwork! And reading PiBoIdMo posts all month has been a wonderful way to work 🙂
November 27, 2012 at 1:48 pm
Bonnie Adamson
What lovely vibrant inspiration for a gray November day! Melissa’s books are treasures.
November 27, 2012 at 1:52 pm
Anne Bromley
Thank you, Melissa, for your wonderful art and your inspiring comments about the value of play. And thank you for the reminder from William Stafford, one of my favorite poets!
November 27, 2012 at 1:53 pm
cekster
Thanks for sharing William Stafford’s quote. I will only worry about the quality of the writing after many revisions. Great advice! Wishing you many more successes with your art and writing, Melissa.
November 27, 2012 at 2:02 pm
h1jackson
Random…story of my life and one of my favorite words! Think I might just have to try the 100 random word challenge and see what ideas come from it. Thanks!!
November 27, 2012 at 2:02 pm
Gail Handler
Definitely a SWEET post! Thank you!!!
November 27, 2012 at 2:04 pm
Kristiane Pedersen
I’m always saying to my husband that a child’s work is to play. Well, I need to remember to “work” a lot more! I loved the quote by William Stafford. I will never look at a creative block the same way again. Down comes that wretched wall! Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!
November 27, 2012 at 2:16 pm
julie rowan zoch
My mom said that too, and sometimes locked the door! It was all good – we had plenty to discover outside, didn’t we? Carmine isn’t just a book, it’s a tribute to color! And I cried, oh yes, when I read Balloons – it is PERFECT! Thanks for sharing the quote – I only wish the sentiment worked in track, back when I ran hurdles in junior high! Great post – thanks!
November 27, 2012 at 2:41 pm
laurasalas
Deadlines and work-for-hire make it easy to forget play sometimes. Thanks for the reminder! (And my standards are always really, really low–probably the only reason I rarely if ever have writer’s block.)
November 27, 2012 at 2:43 pm
Michelle Barnes
It’s a shame that so many of us feel like we’re not allowed to “make a living” having fun, when that’s really what life should be all about! Thanks for the reminder.
November 27, 2012 at 2:52 pm
evelynchristensen
I like the idea making a random list of words I enjoy. Eucalyptus has been a favorite of mine since childhood. Maybe I need to write a pb that has a eucalyptus tree in it….
November 27, 2012 at 2:55 pm
Yona
Wonderful love the quote about lowering your standards until there is no writer’s block /threshold to cross and it’s always inspiring to be given permission to play – thank you!
November 27, 2012 at 3:06 pm
Kevin J. Doyle
“Our teacher said to us, “If you’re in your studio, you’re working.” Whoa! ”
Whoa indeed!! Loved those words and their inherent motivation. Wonderful post – thank you so much for sharing your talents with us.
November 27, 2012 at 3:13 pm
Christie Wright Wild
I LOVED your blog post today. Thanks so much for sharing and also for the chance to win such a GREAT prize pack. Well, gotta go! Time to play!
November 27, 2012 at 3:15 pm
Laura Renauld
Thanks for the reminder that we write (draw) because we love it. It is our play! Let’s do it for fun and the rest will follow 🙂
November 27, 2012 at 3:45 pm
Jennifer Phillips
Once again, we’re being pushed to not just write but create. It’s very inspirational. Thank you!
November 27, 2012 at 3:55 pm
Priscilla Mizell
I love the idea of playing around with mediums and words and colors to “unblock” and discover your story. Thanks for this!
November 27, 2012 at 4:17 pm
Sheri
Thank you for some great ideas to get started with today. I make random lists of words all the time and names for characters and new grand babies.
November 27, 2012 at 4:33 pm
kirabigwood
Thanks for the reminder that it doesn’t stop after November 30! I’ve recently taken my first picture book writing class and it was exactly the spark I needed to finally get started on my ideas.
November 27, 2012 at 4:44 pm
Erin Fennell
Play is so important because it helps unblock our imagination and creativity and get them flowing! Thanks, Melissa!
November 27, 2012 at 4:51 pm
Jennifer Hawes
Your illustrations are beautifully stunning!! Thank you for contributing your collage of ideas;-)
November 27, 2012 at 4:56 pm
Tara Knudson
Thanks, Melissa! Your words and your work are inspiring.
November 27, 2012 at 5:09 pm
Jen Carroll
Gotta go get some craft supplies to stash next to my pens and paper. Thank you thank you!
November 27, 2012 at 5:27 pm
Kristin Gray
Yes, yes, yes. Thank you, Melissa, for sharing your words and work. Love this.
November 27, 2012 at 5:34 pm
Denise Richter
I like the idea of a PiBoIdMo post notebook. I can revisit it when I need inspiration. Plus, I don’t read as well on the “black hole” either. 🙂 Thanks!
November 27, 2012 at 5:35 pm
Mary Flynn
Thank you Melissa for your wonderful advice, “if you’re in your studio you’re working.” yay, I thought I was goofing off.
November 27, 2012 at 5:53 pm
Bev Baird
Collage is my favourite medium. Love your concept for Little |Red especially! Can’t wit to read it. (as well as your other books!)
Great post!
November 27, 2012 at 6:42 pm
Linda
I love the idea of learning to think of writing as play. I need to allow myself to enjoy the process more. Thanks for the good advice! : )
November 27, 2012 at 7:08 pm
Penny Klostermann
The William Stafford quote is wonderful!!! Love it. And speaking of love….Balloons Over Broadway is a book I love! Can’t wait to read Carmine!
November 27, 2012 at 7:20 pm
Claudia Broglio
Another inspirational post! What the heck am I going to do when this month is over? Hm…
November 27, 2012 at 7:36 pm
Cindy
I am such a huge fan…where do I begin? I love Carmine, River of Words, Day is Done and The Boy who Drew Birds. I haven’t yet read Tupelo Rides the Rails or Balloons Over Broadway, but I’m looking forward to them.
I love collage too, and bicycles, dogs and libraries! Thanks so much for your post you are a treasure and inspiration!
November 27, 2012 at 7:41 pm
Peyton Leung
Thanks Melissa! It is always important to remember the importance of play, in any work that you do. I’ve totally been copying posts from PiBoIdMo for later reference and inspiration – which means another big thanks to Tara too!
November 27, 2012 at 8:17 pm
Julie Agen
Very thought-provoking idea. Thank you.
November 27, 2012 at 8:31 pm
Stacy Couch
Playing with words, collage…great ways to get inside the story!
November 27, 2012 at 8:42 pm
Bill Bibo
Wonderful post. It helps to remind me that life is too serious to be taken seriously. Thanks
November 27, 2012 at 9:07 pm
Marcie Cooper
Oh, I love red! Great inspiration, Melissa! Thank you! I’m a not quite on pace for 30 ideas by Friday but it’s not over yet!
November 27, 2012 at 9:13 pm
Kerri Kokias
How fun to hear the “inside story” of how Carmine developed. Love it. Thanks for sharing.
November 27, 2012 at 9:21 pm
Sharon Calle
Thanks Melissa for your words of wisdom. I love your illustrations in Spike, the Mixed-Up Monster. Susan Hood’s text and your art equals perfection in a picture book.
November 27, 2012 at 9:35 pm
lisajaynemurray
love the pinterest mood board idea!!!!!
November 27, 2012 at 9:53 pm
novalibrarymom
I’m SUPER impressed by the Balloons Over Broadway “toys”. How fun! That kind of play would have to live up high on a shelf in my house, though. My 1yo and 3yo would have great fun, but I’d never see my “play” again! 🙂
November 27, 2012 at 10:54 pm
laurimeyers
The advice of approaching the work from a different angle – doodling, collaging, word association – is really striking a chord with me. And making me feel like my writing “nook” needs a renovation.
November 27, 2012 at 10:55 pm
Jenny Boyd
It was cool to see how Carmine materialized. I also liked your colorful brainstorming session with other “red” names.
November 27, 2012 at 11:07 pm
Jessica Shaw
I spend quite a bit of time playing around with ideas and words before I begin writing a new ms. Your post is a great reminder that we shouldn’t judge a day’s work by the number of words we’ve put on a page. Thanks, Melissa!
November 27, 2012 at 11:11 pm
Michelle Levin
Thank you for this… One of the gifts I feel like PiBoIdMo has given me is the permission to just get things down and not need to edit. As a new(ish) writer, I was/am worried about what will happen when this ends. Your post gives me permission to continue to muddle about. Thanks. I hope I can remember it come Dec 5th (and beyond)!
November 28, 2012 at 12:10 am
viviankirkfield
Melissa…we all need to be reminded to play…when it comes to writing/illustrating picture books, it’s so important to keep close to your childhood! I’ll add this golden nugget to my heaped up PiBoIdMo treasure chest…and take your stellar advice to print out all of the guest posts for future study. 🙂 Thank you!!!!
November 28, 2012 at 1:01 am
Laurie Ann Thompson
I was just debating whether I should buckle down and get serious about finishing is thing (and thus guarantee I finish, but with blah ideas from here on out), or play my way to the finish line (and have a better chance at some good ideas, even though I risk not getting all 30 in time). I now have my answer. And it’ll be a lot more fun! Thanks, Melissa!! =D
November 28, 2012 at 1:12 am
diandramae
This great post brought back what it was like to sit in your break-out session at SCBWI LA. Oh, what a wonderful feeling that was! Inspiration and excitement to get to “play” oozed out of my ears! Thanks for the reminder, Melissa. I think I’ll be spending all day tomorrow working with some paper, scissors and glue!
November 28, 2012 at 6:59 am
Julie Falatko
I love that William Stafford quote! It’s true, it IS surreal, stopping ourselves when we can only meet ourselves where we are right now. And then move on from there! (Ok, realizing now I maybe shouldn’t comment on posts pre-coffee. I sound like I’m describing the dream I just had.)
November 28, 2012 at 8:01 am
Janet Smart
A great post. In fact, you’ve given me an idea, which is what it’s all about. I think I’ll go out and play!
November 28, 2012 at 8:15 am
Diana Murray
Great post! I’m ready to play!
November 28, 2012 at 9:06 am
Kathy Cornell Berman
Thanks for sharing your writing process. Playing with the characters and words is fantastic advice. I ordered “Balloons Over Broadway” last week and am anxiously awaiting it’s arrival.
November 28, 2012 at 9:28 am
C. C. Gevry
Wow! What a great post. I love the idea of writing down all the words you like and then writing a story with them in different ways.
November 28, 2012 at 9:51 am
Jarm Del Boccio
I love your illustrations, Melissa! Thanks for encouraging us to get on with our work and just “do it.”
November 28, 2012 at 9:59 am
Jarm Del Boccio
My comment didn’t seem to post…I’ll try again.
Love your illustrations, Melissa! Thanks for encouraging us to just get out there and “do it.”
November 28, 2012 at 10:58 am
SevenAcreSky
Melissa, you described my writing problem perfectly. Great post, great quote. I am adopting ‘NO FELT THRESHOLD’ as my theme for the next year and a month…won’t forget this inspiring, motivating contribution to my writing passions.
November 28, 2012 at 12:12 pm
Anne Moore
always I N S P I R I N G Melissa, thank you!
November 28, 2012 at 12:49 pm
Loni Edwards (@LoniEdwards)
Thank you so much for this post, Melissa. I found it very helpful and inspiring. I am going to print out the quote by William Stafford. It’s great!
November 28, 2012 at 1:46 pm
Angela Padron
I love these illustrations and compositions! Thanks so much for the post.
November 28, 2012 at 3:10 pm
Rachel Hamby
Thanks for the post, Melissa. I was great having you at our WW SCBWI conference in the spring, and a pleasant surprise seeing your post here today. 🙂
November 28, 2012 at 3:35 pm
diane kress hower
Wonderful post, Melissa. Love your work!
November 28, 2012 at 5:35 pm
Desiree Batson
Ready to wrtie full throttle – no permission or forgiveness needed!
Thanks for a great post. 🙂
November 28, 2012 at 8:09 pm
Sallie Wolf
My new mantra–if you are in your studio, you are working. Just show up. The rest will take care of itself. Thanks for a great post.
PS–Red is my favorite color. Looking forward to seeing your book.
November 28, 2012 at 8:28 pm
Debra Shumaker
Loved “Balloons Over Broadway”. I’m trying my hand at a few biographies myself, so it was great inspiration. Great post!
November 28, 2012 at 8:36 pm
Cathy C. Hall
I like to tell myself I’m working when I’m sitting at that laptop…it may look like I’m playing games and staring out the window, but there’s serious idea-thinking going on! 😉
November 28, 2012 at 9:04 pm
Quinn Cole
I was just telling a family friend about Balloons over Broadway on Thanksgiving while the Macy’s Day Parade was on. I loved how well you integrated the story and the art. Brilliant!
November 29, 2012 at 12:22 am
katiemillsgiorgio
Thank you for sharing!
November 29, 2012 at 7:04 am
Veronica Bartles (@vbartles)
I totally agree! I always get my best breakthroughs when I stop to play and be silly, instead of worrying about trying to “do it right” all the time! 🙂
November 29, 2012 at 9:51 am
Deb A. Marshall
Melissa, I love your work. Love it. Thanks for stopping by here to share some of your process and inspire us!
November 29, 2012 at 1:26 pm
Rena Traxel
I love your methods. The quote on writer’s block is something I need to do.
November 29, 2012 at 1:35 pm
Jennifer Ali
I love the permission quote! Thanks.
November 29, 2012 at 1:40 pm
Christy Peterson
Thank you! As a “writer but not illustrator” I always need to be reminded to bring a little from the illustration world to help shape my work, even though it’s just for me.
November 29, 2012 at 5:48 pm
Annette Pimentel
I love the account of your process. I am going to think about how I can play more while I work!
November 29, 2012 at 5:53 pm
Kjersten Hayes
Such a wonderful post! One of my favorite from the month. Thanks Melissa!
November 29, 2012 at 8:56 pm
Erin
cherry
November 29, 2012 at 10:20 pm
Beth MacKinney
Love your mom’s advice. Give me a felt tip pen and some paper and I’m off! (Carla Sonheim is my recent inspiration.)
November 29, 2012 at 10:39 pm
susan crites
fun post melissa, thanks! balloons over broadway is a favorite of mine!
November 29, 2012 at 11:12 pm
S.H. Sherlock
I am quite taken with your art. Thanks for the reminder to Play!
November 30, 2012 at 1:49 am
Kathryn Ault Noble
Melissa, I had more fun “playing” at your master’s class workshop. You are such an inspiration!
November 30, 2012 at 9:08 am
Lois Sepahban
I love your mom’s advice! Thank you for a great post!
November 30, 2012 at 12:52 pm
kdhuxman
I have used collage to reignite the excitement for a work put away for awhile. The hands on techniques use a different place in my brain than putting words on paper. Very energizing.
November 30, 2012 at 1:02 pm
angelapenadahle
It is so refreshing to think of writing and artwork that way. Indeed, I will give myself permission to “go out and play,” and to not have expectations that hinder the creative process before it is realized. Thanks for this post!
November 30, 2012 at 3:22 pm
Abigail
Love your process and art!
November 30, 2012 at 3:28 pm
Debbie Mickelson
Thanks for sharing. I know several writers that use playlists as inspiration and ideas but I hadn’t thought of using art and/or collage. Thanks for the tips.
November 30, 2012 at 10:07 pm
Lisa Rogers
I loved the story behind the Carmine story! What a beautiful and brilliant book. Thanks for telling us the tale.
December 1, 2012 at 12:00 am
Heather Soodak
Thanks for sharing! The most helpful for me was to lower my standards so I can actually get something written! I have been “stuck” on my story and should just write no matter if it is perfect or not.
December 1, 2012 at 3:18 am
Emily Lim-Leh
Sweet!
December 1, 2012 at 4:33 am
Angie Breault
Thank you for the wonderful post, and for the opportunity to win a prize. 🙂
December 1, 2012 at 9:41 am
Michelle Mapp
Not sure if I can still post to be eligible for the prize. But I am catching up on posts and just loved this advice. Thanks.
December 1, 2012 at 12:58 pm
mbeaversillustration
Excellent post! AWESOME quote – I need to get those ideas into my own head – I often amp up the performance pressure on myself, which often brings everything to a halt on the productivity scale. Thanks so much!
December 1, 2012 at 4:25 pm
Lisa Olson
Thank you for the excellent post!
December 2, 2012 at 8:58 pm
lindamartinandersen
Melissa,
Brainstorming favorite words is something I had suggested in a novel writing class for when you got stuck. You made it structure your book. Brilliant!
December 3, 2012 at 1:45 am
Sue Frye
I love inventing new words so this post was a real treat!
November 23, 2013 at 11:42 am
ccbooks
Great reminders here. Thank you!
November 24, 2013 at 2:04 pm
Irene Pacha
I simply love Rivers of Words. Great to read the post from the artist!