by Tammi SauerNovember 1, 2013 6:30 am
by Tammi Sauer
For me, the absolute hardest part about the picture book creating process is coming up with a good idea. A wow idea. An irresistible-to-editors idea.
One approach that has worked for me is to brainstorm a list of potential titles before I even know a single word of a manuscript. I keep in mind that I don’t want a book of mine to have just any title. I always try to have a title that pops. Why? The title is a writer’s first chance to make a good impression and hook a possible agent/editor/reader.
Two of my books started with a title.
One day, while waiting for my daughter to find a book at the library, I sat down on a bench. Next to me was a book on etiquette. I flipped through the book and came across the words “princess in training.” My first thought? That would make a great idea for a picture book….and…
…In fall 2012, PRINCESS IN TRAINING, illustrated by Joe Berger, made its debut.
Another day, I was playing around with words that rhymed with names. As I brainstormed, the words “Quiet Wyatt” popped into my head. QUIET WYATT recently sold to Houghton Mifflin Harcourt BFYR.
My latest manuscript is the result of a title that grabbed hold and said, “You must drop everything and write this.” So I did. A good title can be very pushy. And intoxicating.
If you want to come up with a title as a starting point, consider using these strategies:
examples: Vampirina Ballerina; Fancy Nancy; Scaredy Squirrel
examples: Cowboy Camp; In the Small, Small Pond; The Library
examples: The Monster at the End of This Book; Do Not Open This Book
examples: Chicks and Salsa; Hush, Little Dragon; Llama, Llama Misses Mama
Side Note: I happen to be wildly jealous of the upcoming books There Was an Old Dragon by Penny Klostermann and Tyrannosaurus Wrecks by Sudipta Bardhan-Quallen simply because I am gah-gah over those titles. Why didn’t I think of those titles?! Why?? WHY????
Your Homework Should You Choose To Accept It: Brainstorm at least five titles. That’s it. No need to know the nitty-gritty of what is to follow. Just jot down those titles and maybe, just maybe, a story will sneak up on you.
Extra Credit (because I am a true blue nerd who loves extra credit opportunities): Go to the bookstore and jot down the titles of the books you see. Perhaps one of those titles will be the perfect trigger to help you come up with your next big idea.
Tammi Sauer has sold 16 picture books to major publishing houses. Four of those books got their start through PiBoIdMo. In addition to winning awards, Tammi’s books have gone on to do great things. Cowboy Camp was developed into a musical in Katy, Texas. Mostly Monsterly was selected for the 2012 Cheerios Spoonfuls of Stories program. And Chicken Dance was released in French which makes her feel extra fancy. There’s more fun stuff at TammiSauer.com.
Sink your teeth into this prize pack that features Tammi’s latest release: one personalized copy of NUGGET & FANG, one super shiny poster with a teacher’s guide on the back, and two Nugget tattoos that look fabulous on any bicep (or fin).
Nugget & Fang is a 2009 PiBoIdMo Success Story!
And…Tammi’s also offering a picture book critique to another lucky winner!
This prize pack and critique will be given away at the conclusion of PiBoIdMo. You are eligible for these prizes if:
Good luck, everyone!
Posted by Tara Lazar
Categories: PiBoIdMo 2013, Picture Books
Tags: Cowboy Camp, Nugget and Fang, Princess in Training, Quiet Wyatt, Tammi Sauer
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Brilliant, as always, Tammi! Thanks for the title-lating advice. 😉
By marciecolleen on November 1, 2013 at 6:34 am
Thank you for the starting point strategies Tammi. Brainstorming titles is an interesting approach – I’m off to the library this afternoon!
It’s great to hear that some of your ideas from PiBoIdMo have become books that have been published 🙂
By Catherine on November 1, 2013 at 6:36 am
You’re welcome. 🙂
I’m so thankful Tara came up with PiBoIdMo! It’s such a creative push.
One of my PiBoIdMo ideas that became a book is already out there–Nugget & Fang. One is currently being illustrated by the amazing Jackie Urbanovic. The other two? The editor is currently brainstorming illustrator choices.
Happy brainstorming!
By tammi sauer on November 1, 2013 at 11:32 am
Arrrrgh! I’ve just had a flashback to a slam-dunk title I was playing around with a while ago. Now what else rhymes with Tuesday…? xx
By MummyTheFunny (@EmiHowe) on November 1, 2013 at 6:37 am
Tuesplay, Tuesray, Tuestay…
Bluesday, Truesday, Cluesday….
Oh, were you joking… my bad!
By Juliana Lee on November 1, 2013 at 8:20 am
Love your books, Tammi. And, more importantly for me, love your ideas for creating ideas. Thanks for the post.
By Sue Poduska on November 1, 2013 at 6:38 am
Tammi, I learned so much from you at Falling into Picture Books, and now another great “nugget” of writer’s advice! Thanks…great ideas!
By tanyakonerman on November 1, 2013 at 6:39 am
I’m so glad! I loved being a part of Falling into Picture Books. 🙂
By tammi sauer on November 1, 2013 at 11:33 am
I’m so excited to start PIBOIDMO. Thanks for starting us off right, Tammi.
By Valarie Giogas on November 1, 2013 at 6:41 am
Tammi, I can’t believe I never thought to do this! I absolutely love titles, too, but never thought to START there. Thanks for the fantastic idea! I’m off to come up with some snappy titles.
By Deb Dunn on November 1, 2013 at 6:41 am
Wow – what a fantastic writer – 16 picture books! Thanks for the advice.
By Janet Smart on November 1, 2013 at 6:42 am
Great idea for a newbie who struggles with worrying about coming up with a “whole” book idea. Start with a piece.
By Russ Hogle on November 1, 2013 at 6:43 am
Baby steps! 🙂
By tammi sauer on November 1, 2013 at 11:33 am
Great ideas! Thank you- this PiBoIdMo newbie appreciates all the help!
By Monette Pangan on November 1, 2013 at 6:44 am
Great advice, Tammi. Getting started on my list now. Thanks!
By Rita on November 1, 2013 at 6:47 am
The Monstore began with just a title. In fact, several of my books have begun that way!
By Tara Lazar on November 1, 2013 at 6:47 am
I love when a title grabs hold and says, “Write me!”
By tammi sauer on November 1, 2013 at 11:34 am
Thanks for breaking down the various angles from which to approach a title-centric idea. It’s like doing a little raindance for a brainstorm.
By Gary Masskin on November 1, 2013 at 6:47 am
I’m sure there are many other angles. I just wanted to offer a starting point.
Happy brainstorming!
By tammi sauer on November 1, 2013 at 11:35 am
Zeroing in on a title with razzle-dazzle is an awesome springboard for ideas. It really spotlights the core of a story. Thanks, Tammi 😉
By Andria on November 1, 2013 at 6:51 am
I’ve got 3 and a half titles now, in under 3 minutes! I don’t know what they are about, but they are titles! Thanks. 🙂
By patrickguindon on November 1, 2013 at 6:55 am
Titles are so hard for me – but when I get a good one, I’m just like you, tammi! Gonna try these ideas. Love em – and thanks for the inspiration.
By Joanne Sher on November 1, 2013 at 6:55 am
I usually begin with a working title that changes in the writing processes. But this week I experienced what Tammi wrote about here – my fun title drove the whole story.
By Manju Howard (@ManjuBeth) on November 1, 2013 at 6:58 am
I’m so happy to hear you had a pushy title! It’s an amazing experience when that happens. 🙂
By tammi sauer on November 1, 2013 at 11:36 am
I love the concrete examples you provided. How cool! And coming at picture books title first avoids that horrible problem of finding a good title afterwards… (and nothing snappy or memorable seems to work). Thank you for the great info!
By Sandy Perlic on November 1, 2013 at 6:58 am
Inspiring Stuff!
By Anne Bielby on November 1, 2013 at 7:00 am
I actually got my first idea of the day reading this post. Incredible!
By Amanda Sorenson (@AmandaDSorenson) on November 1, 2013 at 7:01 am
So in awe of Tammi–and inspired by Nugget & Fang
By Sallianne Norelli on November 1, 2013 at 7:04 am
Great advice, I came up with the lead character first and then the title, but I can see how focusing on the title could work just as well.
By Richard Stephens on November 1, 2013 at 7:06 am
My book ideas have come to me in a variety of ways. Many of them have started with character.
Happy brainstorming!
By tammi sauer on November 1, 2013 at 11:39 am
I believe once you have a title, the book practically writes itself.
By Debra Daugherty on November 1, 2013 at 7:07 am
It’s so fun when that happens!
By tammi sauer on November 1, 2013 at 11:40 am
I, too, see amazing titles and am overcome with jealousy. 🙂
By Jill Edmonds on November 1, 2013 at 7:10 am
Thanks Tammi, I love this. Suddenly I feel great about all the titles I’ve thought of, even though I have no real story idea to go with them.
By pennymorrisonp on November 1, 2013 at 7:13 am
Tammi, thanks so much for a great post. I realized I’ve started with the title on a middle grade novel that I’m currently plotting, but I hadn’t thought about doing this consciously. I can’t wait to do this exercise with picture book ideas!
By Cheryl Mansfield on November 1, 2013 at 7:15 am
I love the rhyming titles! Vampire Ballerina – Love it!
By Vivienne Dacosta on November 1, 2013 at 7:16 am
Thanks Tammi. I love this. Suddenly I feel great about all the titles I’ve written down, even though I have no story ideas to go with them.
By pennymorrison on November 1, 2013 at 7:16 am
Tammi, thanks for the great post. I have one title that I love that I can’t wait to jot down for today — now I look forward to rising to your challenge and coming up with more. I am indeed hooked by your titles and now I can’t wait to read the stories myself. One question: When is it okay to repeat a title that is already out there? It sounds crazy but I thought of the title Quiet Wyatt, earlier this year, too, and even wrote a story for it. But after searching Amazon for the title, I changed the title and the manuscript accordingly, because I found it had been used at least twice before: For a picture book by Bill Maynard published by Putnam for 4 and up in 1999 and again in 2007 for six and up as an early chapter book by Larry Dane Brimner for Scholastic. Similarly my first favorite llama book was Is Your Mama a Llama? which made me stay away from llama titles (because that was too wonderful) and yet I’ve seen many books playing with the llama title and idea since. One more title question –both The Stupids and The Dumb Bunnies were successful, but they were essentially the same idea title-wise. So I guess I’m asking is it okay to go to the same concept for the book if the words you choose for the title are different? Sorry for so many questions, but you really got me thinking and wondering!
By Nancy Churnin on November 1, 2013 at 7:19 am
Absolutely, you can see the ownership ethics aren’t so cut and dried! The reading public has a short memory and a narrow familiarity range. And a lot of us out there do not do the research you did! And we/editors as well, should. But did it really matter, in this case and most, no. The books didn’t overlap markets. And there is no new idea under the sun, they say. Concepts are rather basic, many welcome repetition. So we concentrate on the fresh twist.
By Heather Hatch on November 1, 2013 at 8:50 am
Thanks for chiming in, Heather.
The fresh twist is so important–one of my previous PiBoIdMo blog posts focused on that very thing. 🙂
A story has to be written in such a way that it sets itself apart from the others that are already Out There. With a fresh twist and stellar execution, great things can happen.
When I first came up with the title QUIET WYATT, I suddenly knew that character. I felt I HAD to write his story. So I wrote it without even looking to see if the title had been used elsewhere. (Something I rarely do.)
After I had made the story as strong as I could through many revisions and through the help of my crit group, I saw that there were a couple of QWs already out there. I went ahead and had my agent send in my QW since I believe the 1999 QW is out of print and the wonderful early chapter book version is in a different market.
I, of course, realize that an editor may request a title change. This happens a lot in this business.
Best of luck to you!
By tammi sauer on November 1, 2013 at 10:56 am
Thanks for responding and best of luck with the book. I think there could be a whole separate post on what is an overlap and what isn’t particularly for those of us just starting out. Heather, as you say, there are no new ideas under the sun and yet others will tell us to do this kind of research and stay away from too similar titles and themes. I have manuscripts I’m working on where I ask myself that very thing and am not always clear on the answer. Still wondering…when you discovered the title had been used, did that worry or concern you after all the effort you put into the book or did you just push on because you felt yours was so uniquely yours? Did you read the other Quiet Wyatt titles and did you find any story or theme overlaps that concerned you or inspired any revisions? Did your agent or editor even bring it up? Was it your job to make them aware of it or is it their job to know or does it truly not matter? As I said, I’m trying to figure this out for myself and would love to read a post on this very topic if anyone would volunteer to write one!
By Nancy Churnin on November 18, 2013 at 10:27 am
Tammi thanks for giving us specific suggestions to look for book titles. Will have fun doing the extra credit and going to the bookstore: and hopefully get inspirted with more titles:),
By Therese Nagi on November 1, 2013 at 7:20 am
This is great advice, Tammi. I am not good at titles, so I am going to work on your challenge. Congratulations on your success and thanks for the tips!
By jheitman22 on November 1, 2013 at 7:22 am
Starting with a title sounds so easy (though I know it’s not) — and fun! I’m in! Thanks for the ideas.
By Courtenay Schurman on November 1, 2013 at 7:24 am
I love a great title and get so excited when I can come up with one. I’m anxious to see what I can generate this month. Let the creative juices flow!
By Barbara Kupetz on November 1, 2013 at 7:25 am
Great ideas re: how to think about titles and get that motivation for starting a new manuscript. As someone who always puts off the “title” portion, I am excited about trying this new upside-down for me approach!
By Val McCammon on November 1, 2013 at 7:26 am
I have serious title envy on VAMPIRINA BALLERINA. That is pure genius!
By shannonhitchcock on November 1, 2013 at 7:28 am
“Princess in Training” is a brilliant title. Love the combination of the text with the illustration of a girl on a skateboard.
By Barbara DiLorenzo on November 1, 2013 at 7:30 am
Great post. A title just popped in my head that will catch the attention of parents in their thirties and forties. Now I’ve got to write the story in a way that grabs the kids’ attention too. 🙂
By rgstones on November 1, 2013 at 7:36 am
Great post Tammi. So many things go into making a picture book great that we often forget the title is the first impression.
By Alexa Kaufhold on November 1, 2013 at 7:38 am
Thanks for this enlightening post! I will jot down a few titles today!
By Kathy Doherty on November 1, 2013 at 7:38 am
great post – titles always help start a story. Though sometimes they change – er, evolve – over the course of writing. I esp. like the idea of going to a bookstore (or library) and catching titles.
By Sue Heavenrich on November 1, 2013 at 7:39 am
I love it when I think of a good title while driving. I work with it until I come to a stop light or reach my destination then I write it down in a little flip-back notebook in my purse. Great ideas here for jumpstarting more titles!
By Vera Lisa Smetzer on November 1, 2013 at 7:39 am
Thanks for the post. Luckily we’re already headed to the library today 🙂 time for some inspiration.
By Jaclyn Crawford on November 1, 2013 at 7:40 am
Like the idea of using a title as the seed for the story. Thanks!
By Lisa Lee on November 1, 2013 at 7:43 am
Love your energy! Thanks for the title tips.
By lmconnors on November 1, 2013 at 7:44 am
I think the title is the most important reason people will pick up a book to explore . If the title is great chances are the book will be too.
By rosemary basham on November 1, 2013 at 7:44 am
I absolutely love to come up with titles before anything else as well! It’s not only fun to play around with the possibilities, but it’s a lot easier to write down then fussing around with a few sentences for an idea that you’re still unsure of. I love to pull titles from lines of dialogue in movies or on TV as well as books. I’ve come across at least five ideas doing this and can’t wait to see what comes from today’s brainstorming session! 🙂
By Jessica Brannan on November 1, 2013 at 7:45 am
That’s a great strategy!
Titles can pop up anywhere. We just have to be paying attention. 🙂
By tammi sauer on November 1, 2013 at 11:42 am
I love the title brainstorming prompt. Thanks so much for an excellent kick-off to PiBoIdMo!
By Lisa on November 1, 2013 at 7:47 am
I love the idea of brainstorming titles. That is the first thing that will attract a potential reader, so I believe there is a lot of stock in having a good title. Thank you for the reminder!
By shiela fuller on November 1, 2013 at 7:47 am
What a great idea – thank you!
By Rachel Smoka-Richardson on November 1, 2013 at 7:48 am
Great ideas. Thanks.
Audrey
By Audrey on November 1, 2013 at 7:50 am
Tammi…your title jealousy made my day! There Was An Old Dragon did start with the title. A great title catches me every time! Thank you for the inspiration and I’m hoping my first official 2013 PiBoIdMo idea will be an attention grabbing title!
By Penny Parker Klostermann on November 1, 2013 at 7:51 am
Ha! Glad you’re enjoying my pain, Penny! 🙂
By tammi sauer on November 1, 2013 at 10:58 am
Nugget and Fang–another great title. Brainstorming titles is such a doable way to ease into PiBoIdMo. Thanks!
By gpatmiller on November 1, 2013 at 7:51 am
Thanks for sharing Tammi!
By Eileen on November 1, 2013 at 7:53 am
Titles are the hardest part for me. Brainstorming in this way will be a great way to stretch that part of my brain and rename some of my existing manuscripts (I hope). Thanks, Tara and Tammi.
By Joanne Roberts on November 1, 2013 at 7:53 am
Thank you for sharing your own process for “discovering” titles. What a great idea for brainstorming. I will definitely be doing the homework this morning! 🙂
By janenorton672292111 on November 1, 2013 at 7:54 am
Glad to know I’m not the only one who gets wildly jealous over a good title/idea! haha. Thank you for the great prompt…a perfect way to begin this challenge!
By bandyslant on November 1, 2013 at 7:54 am
Yup. You’re in good company. 🙂
By tammi sauer on November 1, 2013 at 11:43 am
Challenge accepted! And I’m a sucker for extra credit, so count me in!
By Deb Dudley on November 1, 2013 at 7:57 am
Great advice, really productive! Thanks.
By theitaliancob on November 1, 2013 at 7:58 am
My first PiBoIdMo idea was actually an awesome rhyming title that came to me in a dream! I kept thinking (in my sleep) DONT FORGET THIS IN THE MORNING!!!
By Kathy Moncrief on November 1, 2013 at 8:04 am
Thanks for sharing some great advice that has worked for you.
By tlaulusa on November 1, 2013 at 8:05 am
Another great way to come up with ideas – thanks Tammi! Will try this for some great PiBoIdMo ideas!
By Jennifer Rumberger on November 1, 2013 at 8:05 am
Nothing better than a helpful task to tackle. Thank you Tammi!
By Michele Norman on November 1, 2013 at 8:05 am
I love coming up with titles and character names — looking forward to seeing what spills out of my brain today!
By skeerswriter on November 1, 2013 at 8:06 am
Love these strategies! Great way to start the month!
By Kim Pfennigwerth on November 1, 2013 at 8:06 am
Love, love, LOVE your books, Tammi! Thanks for your post!
By Kenda Henthorn on November 1, 2013 at 8:07 am
Titles, oh goodness, i know that’s a weakness of mine. Thanks for the inspiration, and i will give this a try.
By Christy Mihaly on November 1, 2013 at 8:07 am
Thank you for the where-to-begin ideas…I needed that this morning!
By Meline on November 1, 2013 at 8:07 am
Nerds unite! Thanks for the tips and assignment. (I love Scaredy Squirrel and Chicks & Salsa — why didn’t I think of THOSE?!) 😉
By Keri Collins Lewis on November 1, 2013 at 8:07 am
Awesome advice. Thank you!
By shirleyngbenitez on November 1, 2013 at 8:10 am
Thanks for this and for nugget and fang, which we love!
By Suze albers on November 1, 2013 at 8:10 am
Thanks for starting off PiBoIdMo with a bang, Tammi! I love coming up with titles! It’s encouraging to hear that some of your PiBoIdMo ideas have become published
By saputnam on November 1, 2013 at 8:11 am
I love the idea to start with a great title. Titles are the hardest for me, so I’m going to try that this month!
By kirsticall on November 1, 2013 at 8:11 am
I came up with titles as I read this post. I LOVE ALLITERATIONS!!! But I read that publishers are not fond of alliterative titles. Is that true? This was an inspiring post. Before I read this post, I had two ideas jotted down. Now I have three, scratch that, four. This is going to be an awesome month. Thanks for sharing.
By jackiewellington21 on November 1, 2013 at 8:12 am
Alliteration can be wonderful in small doses. When I speak about alliteration at writing conferences, this is what I tell attendees:
Sprinkle, like pepper. Don’t pour on, like gravy.
Two of my titles have alliteration:
Cowboy Camp
Mostly Monsterly
By tammi sauer on November 1, 2013 at 11:01 am
Thanks. I use them in titles as well. But I am learning. Thanks for the response; it’s appreciated.
By jackiewellington21 on November 1, 2013 at 11:41 am
I LOVE Nugget & Fang! (And I’m already started on my homework assignment!)
By Mary Kate O'Keefe on November 1, 2013 at 8:12 am
Wonderful advice and completed the day 1 challenge.
By Russ Cox on November 1, 2013 at 8:13 am
Seeing as I got up at 5:55 am with an idea burning in my brain, I am definitely going to try your homework assignment. Titles are always elusive to me; creating before writing a manuscript may help me immensely. Congratulations on all your books, and thank you for sharing your insights with us!
By Janet on November 1, 2013 at 8:13 am
Smart idea! One of my favorite and probably most marketable manuscripts-in-progress started with a title I thought of during PiBoIdMo last year. I like how coming up with a title leaves the pressure of the wow idea for later in the process.
By Susan Cabael on November 1, 2013 at 8:14 am
Super strategies for story starting point! Thanks, Tammi 😀
By Lori Mozdzierz on November 1, 2013 at 8:14 am
Oh yay! I thought I was doing it all wrong! Thanks for the tips! My grandson would LOVE your book, Nugget and Fang. He’s in love with sharks! Happy #PiBoIdMo Day 1 everyone! 🙂
By Rene Diane Aube on November 1, 2013 at 8:15 am
Titles hit me, too. Just the other day I was inspired by a great one and it’s now rolling around in my head gathering characters and setting. Thanks.
By Gayle C. Krause on November 1, 2013 at 8:15 am
Great advice. I particularly like “fun language play.” Thank you Tammi.
By Dee Almond on November 1, 2013 at 8:16 am
Stopped my scribbling to say thanks, Tammi. Will be on the lookout for Quiet Wyatt!
By Wendy Greenley on November 1, 2013 at 8:16 am
OMG, I have a manuscript titled Tyrannosaurus Wrecks! Guess I won’t be working on that one anymore! 😦
By Corey Schwartz on November 1, 2013 at 8:17 am
ACK! That Sudipta and her awesome titles!!!! 🙂
By tammi sauer on November 1, 2013 at 11:02 am
Wonderful advice! Playing with titles and character names always sparks an idea tangent for me!
By Jill Lyttle Tadros on November 1, 2013 at 8:21 am
Thanks for the reminder that ideas are everywhere! It is so refreshing to hear your success stories, Tammi.
By Nancy Tandon on November 1, 2013 at 8:22 am
Nugget & Fang are terrific.
By Papa J Funk on November 1, 2013 at 8:24 am
Alrighty then I’m off to browse some book catalogs. Titles sometimes are the green flag in a race. Thanks to jumpstarting my brain.
By yettee girard on November 1, 2013 at 8:24 am
Thanks Tammi. I love how you highlighted the different “Keys” of title wording. Getting ideas!!! WooHoo!
By Tracey M. Cox on November 1, 2013 at 8:26 am
Thanks for the great homework to start off this challenge!
By Luanne on November 1, 2013 at 8:27 am
Wow! By the time I scrolled down to leave a comment, I’d forgotten what I was going to say! Well, I was sidetracked by all the other wonderful comments. (Moral of the story: check this page first, not your facebook page.) But I do remember the gist of it…I’ve often thought title first was a great idea (when it hit you), it’s kinda like hearing something and saying ‘that would make a great name for a band”! I also like to come up with my character’s name before I can do much in the way of writing his/her story.
By Juliana Lee on November 1, 2013 at 8:27 am
Tammi, what a great beginning to our 30-day challenge: the title! Thanks for getting us started.
By Stephanie Shaw on November 1, 2013 at 8:34 am
TITLES!!! Why didn’t I think of that? What a great starting point. Thanks Tammi. I love your books–classics for sure!
By Kathy Cornell Berman on November 1, 2013 at 8:32 am
Love, Love, Love, the assignments + extra credit.. On my way to the library to get to work. Thanks
By Kathy Mazurowski on November 1, 2013 at 8:36 am
Great advice. I find a lot of inspiration in my titles too! But I love how Tammi has expanded the idea to also include settings. Best take-away for me today is finding titles within the words of other books. It feels like a scavenger hunt!
By Jenn Bower on November 1, 2013 at 8:37 am
Thanks for the great tip & examples Tammi! Love the idea of starting with a title 🙂
By sageandgracedesigns on November 1, 2013 at 8:40 am
Fantastic advice! Titles are the hardest for me, actually! Love the assignment–so what I need! Thanks, Tammi. 🙂
By Jennifer Judd on November 1, 2013 at 8:42 am
You’re a community maker and marketing master. Thanks for making the fun!
By Heather Hatch on November 1, 2013 at 8:42 am
Titles are tricky. Thanks for the challenge and tips.
By Noel Csermak on November 1, 2013 at 8:46 am
Great ideas… Thanks for the inspiration!
By Roberta Baird on November 1, 2013 at 8:47 am
I’ve never tried coming up with a title first- that’s a great challenge!
My kids love your books, Tammi.
By S.H. Sherlock on November 1, 2013 at 8:49 am
One of my favorite titles of all time: Something Wicked this Way Comes. Poetic and suspenseful.
By Johnell on November 1, 2013 at 8:49 am
I wrote a middle grade by starting with a title. It’s a lot of fun. I decided to give it a try due to a talk I heard from a children’s author a long time ago. It was so much fun. Great suggestion.
By Vikk Simmons on November 1, 2013 at 8:53 am
OH can’t wait to begin writing an old episode from real life that a title got me going with today!
By Valerie McPherson on November 1, 2013 at 8:54 am
Tammi, Great suggestion to jot down ideas while reading. I always think I will remember to write it down after I finish reading….I get ideas while riding down the highway reading billboards..Haven’t used this approach to come up with a title…Thank you for the inspiration.
By Jewel Sample on November 1, 2013 at 8:55 am
Tammi, thank you for those outside the box ideas! I’m excited to get going
By Micki Ginsberg on November 1, 2013 at 8:57 am
Thank you so much for this terrific post!
By laurenhk on November 1, 2013 at 8:57 am
Thanks for the great start!
By Mary Warth on November 1, 2013 at 9:02 am
Great idea strategies! Thanks for sharing!
By Linda Norman-Lyman on November 1, 2013 at 9:02 am
Tammi, I really believe the title is as important as the hook line, and sometimes is the hook line too. It’s one of the fun parts for me. Thanks for the post and opportunity to win fun prizes.
By Sherry Hudson on November 1, 2013 at 9:03 am
Agreed!
By tammi sauer on November 1, 2013 at 11:46 am
You’re true blue brilliant! Thanks for the: “I can’t scrub the kitchen floor, I need to do my extra credit.” excuse! I needed that.
By Jenifer Heidorn on November 1, 2013 at 9:03 am
Ha! Happy to help. 🙂
By tammi sauer on November 1, 2013 at 11:46 am
I usually do the opposite–write the story and then struggle to come up with a title. Your way sounds more fun! I’m looking forward to trying it.
By Jacqueline Adams on November 1, 2013 at 9:04 am
I usually do the opposite, too! 🙂
But sometimes playing with titles can be the perfect inspiration.
By tammi sauer on November 1, 2013 at 11:06 am
Love this! Thanks for sharing your tips with us!!
By Candilynn Fite-Writer on November 1, 2013 at 9:04 am
Great advice. Today I will brainstorm titles!
By Linda Melino on November 1, 2013 at 9:04 am
Thanks, Tammi!
By heatherj on November 1, 2013 at 9:05 am
The strategy list was particularly helpful. Thank you.
By Jennifer Voigt Kaplan on November 1, 2013 at 9:09 am
Thank you for yet another path to inspiration!
By jeanine potter on November 1, 2013 at 9:10 am
Tammi – Brainstorming titles is a super way to get the ideas flowing – thank you for that suggestion! And thanks for listing specific types of titles with examples; that’s extremely helpful. I’ve come up with a few picture book ideas in the past starting with a title, but I’ve never sat down with an assignment like brainstorm 5 titles – I’m going to do my homework right now!
By melaniebellsworth3 on November 1, 2013 at 9:13 am
I have found coming up with a title in my novel writing helps guide the drafting process as well!
By Jessie Oliveros on November 1, 2013 at 9:14 am
Thank you for the inspiring kick-off and today’s excuse for not taking down the Halloween decorations!
By Linda on November 1, 2013 at 9:14 am
Yes. This excuse is valid! If you do the extra credit, you can wait to take down the decorations until Sunday. 🙂
By tammi sauer on November 1, 2013 at 11:47 am
Great ideas, Tammi! I find I do well with challenges, contests, etc. and picking the title first becomes its own challenge–write a story that fits this title! This could work for me. Thanks!
By deborahholtwilliams on November 1, 2013 at 9:15 am
Looking forward to doing my homework for day 1!
By Amy Cohas on November 1, 2013 at 9:15 am
Such great advice, Tammi! A perfect way to start off PiBoIdMo! Thanks so much for sharing.
By Pat Haapaniemi on November 1, 2013 at 9:16 am
I can’t wait to try this idea–selecting titles first! I’m usually the opposite, finding my titles last. Thanks so much, Tammi!
By tinamcho on November 1, 2013 at 9:17 am
Time to think of a title. Thank you for the inspiration. ❤
By Suzy Leopold on November 1, 2013 at 9:17 am
Thanks, Tammi! I heard you speak once, and I can still remember your wild enthusiasm for picture books, words, and all things that kids love. Thank you for your example!
By Sonja Anderson on November 1, 2013 at 9:18 am
I can only hope that one day I will be lucky enough to illustrate one of your books Tammi! Great advice, thank you!
By Renee Kurilla on November 1, 2013 at 9:19 am
I always struggle with titles, so starting with one will be a good challenge!
By Kari Allen (@Kari_D_Allen) on November 1, 2013 at 9:21 am
If I pick up a book, it’s because the title caught my interest. Great post, Tammi, and great HW assignment!
By Hayley Barrett on November 1, 2013 at 9:23 am
Yup. A good title is definitely an attention-getter.
By tammi sauer on November 1, 2013 at 11:48 am
I agree that titles are a huge part of the attraction to picture books! I accept the challenge of coming up with 5 good ones today!
-Teresa Daffern
By Teresa Daffern on November 1, 2013 at 9:24 am
I like today’s 5-title brainstorm challenge. It’s on! Thanks for the inspiring words.
By sheriroloff on November 1, 2013 at 9:24 am
When brainstorming, don’t forget alliteration as a prompt or tool.
By Pat Gramling on November 1, 2013 at 9:26 am
Never thought about starting with the title. Thank you for sharing.
By klmcmorranmaus on November 1, 2013 at 9:26 am
Great strategies on coming up with titles. That’s usually the hardest part for me!
By Charlotte on November 1, 2013 at 9:27 am
Day one and going strong! Thanks for all five of my new ideas, Tammi!
By Elise Hylden on November 1, 2013 at 9:27 am
Thanks for the advice. I can totally see how a good title can be a good starting point for a story!
By Meridth Gimbel on November 1, 2013 at 9:28 am
I just met you in Indiana last month and your workshops were awesome.
I just gave my 3 year old niece Princess in Training…perfect.
And your suggestion today I love. Thank you.
By svaisnoras on November 1, 2013 at 9:36 am
Thank you! I loved my time in Indiana.
I hope your niece is a fan of Viola Louise Hassenfeffer. 🙂
By tammi sauer on November 1, 2013 at 11:07 am
Thank you for some great ideas to jump start the challenge!
By Joan Waites on November 1, 2013 at 9:39 am
Thanks so much! I am off to do my homework!
By kpbock on November 1, 2013 at 9:40 am
The title idea is awesome. I found several things that could have inspired Tyrannosaurus Wrecks, including a Hot Wheels toy called T-Wrecks from the early 2000s. I think that’s one of the signs of a catchy “hook,” don’t you think, that several people think of it?
By Beverly Snedecor on November 1, 2013 at 9:40 am
I am a HUGE Princess In Training fan! Now I must read more Tammi books 🙂
By Shanda McCloskey on November 1, 2013 at 9:41 am
So excited about PiBoIdMo, I should be focusing at work but now I’m just thinking of titles! Great post :o)
By Jessie Miller (@pigknit) on November 1, 2013 at 9:42 am
Great post! I’m definitely going to be using this as inspiration.
By laurazarrin on November 1, 2013 at 9:43 am
Great advice! I’ve always ended with the title, never started with it. Can’t wait to give it a go!
Thanks a bunch!
By BRJacobsArt on November 1, 2013 at 9:44 am
Great suggestion–I’m off to brainstorm title ideas!
By Buffy Silverman on November 1, 2013 at 9:44 am
Off to brainstorm titles!
By Ann on November 1, 2013 at 9:45 am
I often get titles that pop into my head before I know what the book will be about, and this post reminds me to go back to one ms I love that came about this way. Must get it polished and out the door. Thanks so much,
By Carol Munro on November 1, 2013 at 9:46 am
Hi Tammi, thank you so much for the heads up! Wonderful advice: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 titles in the process and here I go 😀 Sunny greetings from Aruba.
By One Happy Writer on November 1, 2013 at 9:47 am
Thank you Tammi! I always wait until the end (when writing poetry) to come up with the title. Great idea to start at the beginning with a title. 🙂
By Janie Reinart on November 1, 2013 at 9:48 am
To the couch I go with my book of baby names, cup of coffee, pencil, and paper. My daughter will not understand why I’m not using my I Pad but a writer just has to have the feel of a pencil between her fingers sometimes:)
By Linda Whalen on November 1, 2013 at 9:48 am
I love this advice! It’s very helpful. Thank you!
By cherylsec on November 1, 2013 at 9:49 am
I’m a sucker for fun wordplay – Chicks and Salsa, Tyrannosaurus Wrecks – LOVE THEM!!!! I’ve been hoping to come up with one of those types of titles, now I am more determined than ever! Thanks for this post.
By Debra Shumaker on November 1, 2013 at 9:50 am
At first that sounded really backwards. Start with the title? Backwards advice! backwards… backwards… oh… I feel some titles brewing!
By Kimberly Vogel on November 1, 2013 at 9:51 am
Seems like a great idea. Thanks!
By beckylevine on November 1, 2013 at 9:51 am
Love your suggestions ton where to find ideas. I enjoy your books too!
By danielledufayet on November 1, 2013 at 9:54 am
A great post- and it’s true! Many of my ideas from last year’s PiBoIdMo began as titles, then I turned them into little stories. Now, if only I’d just finish them… Hehe.
By mellin4333 on November 1, 2013 at 9:55 am
You can do it!
By tammi sauer on November 1, 2013 at 11:49 am
I think Mostly Monsterly is a great title, too – a title that inspires me to think about how a different character might react to the same situation…off to work on those five titles.
By marciewessels on November 1, 2013 at 9:58 am
Thank you! A friend helped come up with that title. Friends are awesome. 🙂
By tammi sauer on November 1, 2013 at 11:49 am
I’m terrible at coming up with titles after I’ve written something. What an eye opener to start with a great title and write a story to go with it. I’m going to give this a try for my first 5 ideas. Thanks for the suggestion, Tammi!
By Debbie Austin on November 1, 2013 at 10:01 am
I gasped when I read the title Quiet Wyatt. I wrote a picture book with that title a couple of years ago and it has sold very well, indeed.
By Larry Brimner on November 1, 2013 at 10:01 am
Well, hooray for nice sales! Congratulations. 🙂
By tammi sauer on November 1, 2013 at 11:09 am
Thank you for your inspiration today!!!! I am so excited to begin my ideas!!!
By Laurie Young on November 1, 2013 at 10:01 am
Oh, how I love a snappy title. Great advice, Tammi!
By Lori Alexander on November 1, 2013 at 10:01 am
Terrific start to PiBoIdMo, Tammi! Brainstorming titles without commitment to plot is a great way to get the creative juices flowing :-).
By tpierce on November 1, 2013 at 10:05 am
I’m great at coming up with titles – I just struggle to turn them into full fledged stories. I do agree that a snappy title is key!
By Colleen Jensen on November 1, 2013 at 10:06 am
Forgive me, the opening line of this post struck me as negative. This is how we are supposed to start the month? I am here for ideas…I like the shark book.
By Patrick Waldron on November 1, 2013 at 10:06 am
I’m sorry. When I wrote my blog post, I did not know that it would be used to kick off PiBoIdMo.
Coming up with good ideas has always been my toughest challenge as a writer. I readily admit that and wish, wish, wish I was a person who could come up with 16,231,812 ideas before lunch. That’s why I happily participate in PiBoIdMo each year. Seeing what works for others is sometimes exactly what I need. Plus, I love being a part of a community that is caught up in the same thing. Inspiring!
I’m glad to know you like Nugget & Fang. Thank you!
By tammi sauer on November 1, 2013 at 11:15 am
I don’t find the opening negative. Ideas ARE HARD. That’s why we have PiBoIdMo and this community of nearly 1000 writers! If ideas were easy, no one would need this challenge.
By Tara Lazar on November 1, 2013 at 12:11 pm
alright I’ll bite on the extra credit because I sort of feel terrible at coming up with titles so I probably need the practice. Great post Tammi!
By Mary Uhles on November 1, 2013 at 10:06 am
I love playing with titles! What a great way to generate some ideas. Sometimes it takes me a while to get a story to go with them, though. 🙂
By Andrea on November 1, 2013 at 10:07 am
That’s a great idea to start the PiBoIdMo challenge.
Thank you!
By Meena on November 1, 2013 at 10:08 am
I love this idea, Tammi! Great titles cause me to immediately start imagining the story in my head – sort of an involuntary response.
By Tracy Molitors on November 1, 2013 at 10:09 am
Love this title challenge!
By Lisa Robinson on November 1, 2013 at 10:09 am
Hey I did this! My first idea for PiBoIdMo started with a set if potential titles! Yeah!
By cheryllovestoread on November 1, 2013 at 10:10 am
Reading this fabulous post Tammi made me think to myself…why didn’t I think of these great ways to generate new ideas. Why? Why??
What a great way to kick off PiBoIdMo!
Donna L Martin
By Donna L Martin on November 1, 2013 at 10:11 am
Inspiring! 🙂
By princesstomato on November 1, 2013 at 10:12 am
Thank you! My most recent picture book idea came from a title – and I thought I was crazy – so thanks for validating my craziness with your success stories! =0)
By Kerry Mazengia on November 1, 2013 at 10:13 am
Always happy to validate a person’s craziness. 🙂
By tammi sauer on November 1, 2013 at 11:51 am
I love brainstorming titles! Now hearing how it has churned out successful books for you will give me more reason to think titles for this month!
By Emily Lim-Leh on November 1, 2013 at 10:16 am
Nothing like a great title to hook a reader in. Kind of like buying wine because you like the label.
By Nancy Armo on November 1, 2013 at 10:17 am
Titles are nearly always the hardest part of the writing process for me. Maybe I need to lighten up and have fun with them — ahead of time! Thanks for this post, Tammi! May the titles abound!
By Beth Stilborn on November 1, 2013 at 10:22 am
I agree titles are a wonderful jumping off point! Thanks for the inspiring post 🙂
By Danna Smith on November 1, 2013 at 10:23 am
Hi Tammi, thank you thank you thank you!
I had a title in mind and don’t know how to go about it, your suggestion just helped me take a direction.
Starting with a title, what a brilliant idea!
Best regards and wishes from a partial cow-girl!
By Ping Wan on November 1, 2013 at 10:24 am
Thanks, Tammi! Great idea! You and your books are an inspiration 🙂
By Maria Gianferrari on November 1, 2013 at 10:24 am
Fintastic advice!!! 😉 Such easy application for homework! Thanks!
By writing4children on November 1, 2013 at 10:26 am
Love this post. Such good ideas and helpful advice. Now it is time to work on those titles.
By Ashley Bankhead on November 1, 2013 at 10:26 am
Great advice Tammi! I do the same with poems. Great springboard for a story.
By Catherine Johnson on November 1, 2013 at 10:26 am
Solid advice on day1 – ideas are the hardest part for me too. Love your work, Tammi!
By ginaperry2013 on November 1, 2013 at 10:35 am
Love the title idea, which has occasionally worked for me in the past (as far as sparking ideas – the manuscripts are still at home. Woe). Cannot WAIT to find out what Tammi’s latest title inspiration was, since it caught fire for her!!
By Kelly Ramsdell Fineman on November 1, 2013 at 10:37 am
16 picture books! That’s astounding! I love titles, too, Tammi. and I have one on my mind right now that will start my PiBoIdMo day 1! It’s kismet that this post is day 1 for this newbie!!! Cheers to Writing!
By kathalsey on November 1, 2013 at 10:40 am
Welcome to PiBoIdMo! 🙂
By tammi sauer on November 1, 2013 at 11:51 am
With tips like this to start us off right, why limit ourselves to 30 ideas? Thanks so much for sharing your successes and the process with us, Tammi!
By Cathy John Biggerstaff on November 1, 2013 at 10:45 am
Thanks, Tammi! This is my first time doing PiBoIdMo and I appreciate the inspiration!
By nancydrewit on November 1, 2013 at 10:54 am
Fun stuff, Tammi! Day One PiBoIdMo is off to a rip-roaring start.
By Jim Hill (@heyjimhill) on November 1, 2013 at 10:56 am
Tammi, this is my second comment but this one should earn me a free book. You wrote that the idea and title for Princess in Training was ‘taken’ from a book on etiquette. I think you have a duty to your readers to inform them this would be called derivative copyright infringement if done from a published picture book. Sorry
By Patrick Waldron on November 1, 2013 at 10:57 am
The words “princess in training” appeared in the text of a nonfiction book for adults that was over 200 pages long.
Those words simply triggered the idea to write a book with that title.
By tammi sauer on November 1, 2013 at 11:18 am
Besides, titles are not copyright-able. You’ll find many books with the same titles out there.
By Tara Lazar on November 1, 2013 at 11:40 am
Thanks, but you can see where someone could take the idea of using exact words from another non-public domain text, use it for a title without getting permission, and get in trouble? Right?
By Patrick Waldron on November 1, 2013 at 3:50 pm
Stellar post, as usual, Tammi! It seems like the title and the illustrations are the two biggest factors in getting a reader to pick up a picture book. Since I am a stick-figure kind-of gal and I can’t control the illustrations, I love to play with really fun titles. And often great story ideas can morph from them!
By Laura Lowman Murray on November 1, 2013 at 11:01 am
Yup. A great title and cover are big draws. 🙂
By tammi sauer on November 1, 2013 at 11:54 am
I loved all the ideas. I have a great title I have been itching to get started on and you gave me the inspiration to just do it. Thanks!
By Angela Turner on November 1, 2013 at 11:01 am
I was up after midnight and started PiBoIdMo before going to bed. A line came to mind and then it became a story idea; the line became the title and I have a rough draft! Now after reading your excellent tip-filled post, I will try your suggestion of coming up with five titles. Titles are fun to think up. Thanks, Tammi.
I feel good about PiBoIdMo this year, thanks, Tara!
– Lynn Davidson
By Lynn A. Davidson on November 1, 2013 at 11:02 am
I saw you speak at a SCBWI conference. You are quite an inspiration.
By Sharon Nix Jones on November 1, 2013 at 11:03 am
Thank you! I love speaking at those conferences. It’s always great to be in a room full of people who Get It. 🙂
By tammi sauer on November 1, 2013 at 11:54 am
I only made it half way thru this great post when my brain started shootin’ out titles! What a great post to kick start day one! I’m bursting with creativity! Bursting, I tell ya!! 🙂
By Pam Jones on November 1, 2013 at 11:04 am
VEry helpful to me! An arrow to my brain!! Thank you!!
By Shell ledrew on November 1, 2013 at 11:05 am
I struggle with titles, but every once in a while once pops out at me. What a great place to start. And now I’m going to go play with rhyming words. Thanks for the spur, Tammi!
By diandramae on November 1, 2013 at 11:05 am
What a great way to get off to a good start. Thanks for the tips, Tammi. I am off to brainstorm titles 🙂
By Alayne Kay Christian on November 1, 2013 at 11:07 am
I am enlightened, Tammi! Off I go title-hunting!
By Pia Garneau on November 1, 2013 at 11:08 am
Off to brainstorm titles! Thanks for your post! 🙂
By Kate Meixner on November 1, 2013 at 11:08 am
Awesome advice, Tammi! And, I LOVE Nugget and Fang!!!
By Jennifer Kaap on November 1, 2013 at 11:09 am
I do love coming up with titles, and I especially love when a title comes to me before the story does–there are so many possibilities! Thanks, Ann Magee
By ammwrite on November 1, 2013 at 11:11 am
terrific advice to reinforce that a good story can start from anywhere. your post is also a valuable reminder for us newbie writers that every aspect of our writing from the concept to the characters to the story arc to the title deserves equal creative attention. tammi, thanks a ton for your insight.
By twinsdaddyo on November 1, 2013 at 11:17 am
Great idea … I have a lot of driving to do today, think I’ll play with titles then!! Thanks!
By Denice R. Gilb on November 1, 2013 at 11:17 am
Thank you Tammi for the suggestion of finding a title before writing the MS, I love that idea! I’m off to brainstorm for fun titles!
By Dana Atnip on November 1, 2013 at 11:19 am
Great advice, Tammi! You are such an inspiration!
By jenniferkirkeby on November 1, 2013 at 11:20 am
Thanks so much for the wonderful advice, Tammi. I will come up with five new titles before the end of the day.
By Linda on November 1, 2013 at 11:28 am
Great post Tammi! This is one of my favorite ways to come up with new ideas. I’m taking on your challenge! 🙂
By Susie Sawyer on November 1, 2013 at 11:29 am
thank you for the ideas Tammi. i’ve brainstormed a few titles that i’m really excited about!
By dee win on November 1, 2013 at 11:31 am
Great Idea love the word plays
By Mary Flynn on November 1, 2013 at 11:36 am
Whahooo fab idea – I SO love titles
Thank you Tammi!
By Heather Gale on November 1, 2013 at 11:37 am
Great advice!
By Doreen E. Lepore on November 1, 2013 at 11:38 am
Thank you Tammi. I loved your title before the stories. I have found ideas are everywhere. If you sit with a child and just talk with them, you will hear about the obstacles with siblings, neighborhood friends, school friends, soccer pals, etc. Must get to work and jot down my first idea.
By Sandie Sing on November 1, 2013 at 11:42 am
So fun! Love it!
By LeeAnn Jensen on November 1, 2013 at 11:47 am
I am always thinking of fun titles (just not always the stories to go with them), but sometimes it works! Great post!
By Wend Silvano on November 1, 2013 at 11:47 am
Great ideas! Thank you!
By Summer Hinderer on November 1, 2013 at 11:48 am
Tammi, thank you for the advice on titles. I will try them. You’re right, Penny’s and Sudipta’s titles are envious worthy.
By Jennifer Young (@ItsJennyYoung) on November 1, 2013 at 11:51 am
Great idea to start at the absolute beginning – the title! Love the advice!
By Andrea Allen on November 1, 2013 at 11:52 am
Thanks for the prompt to start the ideas rolling!
By julie rowan zoch on November 1, 2013 at 11:54 am
Thanks for the great inspiring post! 🙂 Off to get some titles going …
Happy Writing!
By Debbie Smart on November 1, 2013 at 11:55 am
Love it!
By culinarycam on November 1, 2013 at 11:55 am
Thank you Tammi, working with titles is a great way to start! Am writing a few right now! Daniela Weil
By Daniela Weil (@Daniela_Weil) on November 1, 2013 at 12:00 pm
I love that you were inspired by “princess in training” in an etiquette book. Thanks for reminding us titles (and stories) are everywhere.
By Amanda Smith on November 1, 2013 at 12:05 pm
I love this post! Such good advice. Thanks!
By Kjersten Hayes on November 1, 2013 at 12:06 pm
Great tips. I tried it out today and it got my PiBoIdMo started off right! Thank you.
By Michelle O'Hara Levin on November 1, 2013 at 12:10 pm
Those are great homework exercises. I am going to try them out.
By lindaschueler on November 1, 2013 at 12:14 pm
For some reason, my titles always come last because I think they are the hardest to come up with. But I will do my HW and see where it takes me! Thanks for the advice!!
By preachteach on November 1, 2013 at 12:19 pm
Thanks for the advice. Very cool about the book released in French. I am a former French teacher and am itching to find ways to incorporate the language into stories and titles. Naturally, of course. 🙂
By Erika C. on November 1, 2013 at 12:20 pm
I always, always start with a title first. Titles just seem to pop into my head and I think hmmm, this would make a great picture book. Great post, Tammi!
By Lauri on November 1, 2013 at 12:22 pm
Thanks for the jump start Tammi. Looking forward to PiBoldMo.
By Naana on November 1, 2013 at 12:23 pm
I love this idea. I think it will really work to come up with a title first to inspire a whole book. Thanks for the homework!
By taracreel on November 1, 2013 at 12:23 pm
I love this suggestion! Thanks!
By Linda Stanek on November 1, 2013 at 12:23 pm
Love hearing that some of your books began with PiBoIdMo!
By Dawn Young on November 1, 2013 at 12:24 pm
Very cool about the book released in French. I am a former French teacher and am itching to find ways to incorporate the language into stories and titles. (Naturally, of course!)
By Erika Crowl (@erikacrowl) on November 1, 2013 at 12:24 pm
OHHH this is awesome, So I had my brilliant idea this morning while at Walmart (a treasure trove place for ideas) and now you told me to think up a title and I did…I love it…now off to do some homework…I am nerdly that way!!
By Cindy Loven on November 1, 2013 at 12:24 pm
Excellent writing exercises! Thanks Tammi! 🙂
By Jill Siegel on November 1, 2013 at 12:24 pm
Can’t wait to try coming up with titles! Thanks for the inspiration.
By Janet Halfmann on November 1, 2013 at 12:25 pm
Homework!! Actually, I teach and I like homework. Especially fun assignments like these, Tammi. What you say makes so much sense it seems easy. Now onto the hard part… coming up with something.
By danacarey1 on November 1, 2013 at 12:26 pm
Thanks for starting us off. What a fun idea to find titles that jump out at me. Off to the bookstore.
By Evie Hjartarson on November 1, 2013 at 12:27 pm
Thanks for sharing your ideas to help spark the big idea that’s surely hiding somewhere inside me. At least I hope so.
By Sherry Walz on November 1, 2013 at 12:30 pm
Titles are my hardest thing to come up with! OK, now I’ve got some work ahead of me. 😀 Thanks for a great post.
By littledbl on November 1, 2013 at 12:31 pm
I know. I love Penny’s title too. I kicked myself because I missed doing her story. She’s awesome! Gonna do my homework. Thanks!!!
By Robyn Campbell on November 1, 2013 at 12:31 pm
I always enjoy reading your words Tammi! I was just paging through your book Nugget & Fang yesterday in a book store, too. Thank you for an inspiring, helpful post. I have 6 titles and counting and 2 new book ideas!
By wendymyersart on November 1, 2013 at 12:33 pm
Yahoo!
By Tammi Sauer on November 1, 2013 at 8:42 pm
Let me start by saying, I love your work. Very fun! Your stories have been used as a go to for how to write picture books in several of my critique groups. Thank you for the lesson today. Great advice! I agree a great title is the beginning of a great book. The title doesn’t always come first, maybe it’s an idea or a character, but I agree that the title sets the stage for a great book. Ideas are already starting to come to me. Thank you!
By Theanna on November 1, 2013 at 12:34 pm
Oooh great ideas…and i shall accept the challenge. kelly artist
By kelmcdonald on November 1, 2013 at 12:35 pm
I can totally relate to this! I have been thinking of titles first, too! Thanks for the great inspiration!
By schriscoe on November 1, 2013 at 12:36 pm
I’ve had a few stories that started as titles, and I agree: they can be very pushy. In the best possible way. I’m off to brainstorm five titles!
By Julie Falatko on November 1, 2013 at 12:37 pm
Margaret Master….starting off today with a new pen, new big note cards and a scrap of paper that I scribbled something on a few days ago. Can I count that as my idea for today? I’m going to flesh it out. I’d love to hear more about how far do you take a first thought to call it an “idea”
Count me in for the prizes 🙂
By Margaret Master on November 1, 2013 at 12:43 pm
Thanks for helping me this month!
By dkcavitt on November 1, 2013 at 12:48 pm
I love your stories, Tammi. And if you’ve had a book translated into French, you ARE fancy. Mad, wicked fancy. Hey wait a minute – did I just invent a title? Yes! Yes, I did…..
By Genevieve Petrillo on November 1, 2013 at 12:45 pm
Great ideas! It was easier than I thought to think of 5 titles 🙂 Can’t wait to explore the story ideas to go with!
By Kerry on November 1, 2013 at 12:47 pm
Great ideas, and I love those titles!
By Erin B. on November 1, 2013 at 12:47 pm
I love having extra credit and homework! Thank you for that! Great post! I was working in the studio today when I realized what today was! I did a little dance and celebrated while my two children thought the excitement should be followed by cake! Why not?! It’s November 1st- y’ll!
By Freckled Daisy Creations on November 1, 2013 at 12:49 pm
Thank you for the great advice!
By lindakcampos on November 1, 2013 at 12:51 pm
Love it! Thank you!
By Heather Greene on November 1, 2013 at 12:55 pm
I’m off to play with those tips for titles. Thanks! –Kim
By naturewalkwithgod on November 1, 2013 at 12:57 pm
Getting ready to jot down my five titles. I hope one will trigger a great story idea for me.
By Susan Nicholas on November 1, 2013 at 12:58 pm
Titles Rock! Five in one day! Isn’t that vegetables? Wait a minute – I feel a title coming on – Five little vegetables jumping in a. . . Thanks Tammi!
By Barbara Messinger on November 1, 2013 at 1:09 pm
I, too, tend to start an idea with a title. Your other strategies are very helpful too! Thanks, Tammi!
By Romelle Broas on November 1, 2013 at 1:13 pm
Always love getting inside your PB brain, Tammi! Thanks for sharing great inspiration. (Really? 16 PBs? That’s amazing!)
By Kellie DuBay Gillis on November 1, 2013 at 1:16 pm
Thank you for the advice. I also start with a title. I can’t wait to begin implementing your suggestions.
By Amanda Banks on November 1, 2013 at 1:18 pm
I too choose the title first! I am up to your challenge and titles are scrambling around in my title-maker right now! LOL
By angiekarcherAngie Karcher on November 1, 2013 at 1:20 pm
Love your books! Thanks for the strategies and inspiration to start with a title.
By laura516 on November 1, 2013 at 1:25 pm
As a librarian I love a good title. The kids are excited before you even open the book. Great idea, Tammi, thanks!
By Flower T on November 1, 2013 at 1:26 pm
Actually in my first thoughts about doing PiBoIdMo I envisioned doing a title a day for all of November! We must think similarly 🙂
By abrianc on November 1, 2013 at 1:26 pm
Tammi, I’m a huge fan of your books! Love these strategies–titles are so hard for me. Maybe starting with a title (which I never do) will take the pressure off a little!
By Laura Purdie Salas on November 1, 2013 at 1:27 pm
Great post, Tammi! I love brainstorming titles, too! Thanks for a great start to PiBoIdMo! 🙂
By Sheri Dillard on November 1, 2013 at 1:27 pm
Thanks for the inspiration and tips
By Priya Gopal on November 1, 2013 at 1:30 pm
Titles, titles, titles…..hmmm…Actually some of my stories started with the title first….titles, titles, titles!
By Christine M. Irvin on November 1, 2013 at 1:34 pm
Thanks for the advice! Thinking of titles seems like a great way to get the imagination flowing without all of the pressure of coming up with a whole story. I’ve got a couple titles already, and each one of them can lead into so many different, and exciting, directions.
By Gabriel Patten on November 1, 2013 at 1:35 pm
Thanks for a great post, Tammi! I love your idea to brainstorm titles!
By Lois Sepahban on November 1, 2013 at 1:38 pm
Wow! What a great way to start this challenge. Thank you, Tammi.
By Pat Holloway on November 1, 2013 at 1:41 pm
Working on my titles!
By Dawn on November 1, 2013 at 1:42 pm
I’m also jealous of Penny’s and Sudipta’s titles. So awesome! I can’t wait to read them. Also Quiet Wyatt sounds like a riot (a quiet riot, but a fun one). I can’t wait to read it as well. Thanks for the title tips.
By Hannah Holt on November 1, 2013 at 1:42 pm
These are great ideas. Thank you!
By Debbie Lubbert on November 1, 2013 at 1:44 pm
Brilliant, Tammi! Thank you for the insight. And, I love your books.
By Beth Thaler on November 1, 2013 at 1:48 pm
I love searching for a great title but it isn’t normally my start point. I am going to try this!
By Joanna on November 1, 2013 at 1:51 pm
A character’s name and title is often the first thing that comes to mind. Excellent post.
By renajtraxel on November 1, 2013 at 1:55 pm
Thanks for the great title ideas, Tammi! I saw NUGGET and FANG in my daughter’s book order! Hurray! 🙂
By Pam Brunskill (@PamBrunskill) on November 1, 2013 at 1:59 pm
Really??? I knew N&F was in the Scholastic Book Fair and Scholastic Australia, but I didn’t know it was already in the flyers. Thanks for letting me know!
By Tammi Sauer on November 1, 2013 at 8:44 pm
I love to think about catchy titles.. Thanks for your ideas
By Deirdre Englehart on November 1, 2013 at 2:04 pm
But which one’s Nugget and which one’s Fang??? I must know!
By Kimberly Cowger on November 1, 2013 at 2:07 pm
Nugget = minnow
Fang = shark
By Tammi Sauer on November 1, 2013 at 8:47 pm
Yes! Great post! And Tammi’s books have such fabulous titles! Both my pub’d picture books began in my brain as titles. And my forthcoming picture book, as well. Today’s PiBoIdMo idea came to me that way, too! Love it!
By Anika Denise on November 1, 2013 at 2:40 pm
Just looked up your books, and LOVE the concept of Bella and Stella Come Home. It looks beautifully done even without reading the full text, and I’ve already recommended it to my moms group for anyone experiencing a move.
By Amelia on November 1, 2013 at 11:15 pm
Great idea, I usually start with a place but will give this a try. Thanks!
By Susan Latta on November 1, 2013 at 2:41 pm
I love me a catchy title! Thanks for the post! 🙂
By Laura Hamor (@LauraHamor) on November 1, 2013 at 2:44 pm
Thanks for the fun and inspiring first post!
By belindambrock on November 1, 2013 at 2:48 pm
Titles are definitely the BOMB! Congrats on all your wonderful successes!
By lisajmichaels on November 1, 2013 at 2:57 pm
Great advice! I hadn’t thought of starting with titles. I used an online random noun generator to jump start my brainstorming.
By Karen Bezella-Bond on November 1, 2013 at 2:59 pm
Great article. How about “Edifice Wrecks”, a more mature picture book about building demolition? 🙂
By Henry Herz on November 1, 2013 at 3:03 pm
Super start! Thanks for the assignment… I’m on it! 😉
By Michelle @ Fitztopia on November 1, 2013 at 3:04 pm
So glad you gave me a homework assignment to get this week started, Tammi!
By Michelle Proper on November 1, 2013 at 3:06 pm
Thanks for the inspiration–I think I’ll go find myself a bench.
By Sherry Alexander on November 1, 2013 at 3:13 pm
Love catchy titles. Absolutly a good way to start. Thanks for the tips Tammi. Loved Princess in training!
By Angie Jones on November 1, 2013 at 3:15 pm
Congratulation on you upcoming books! I love Mostly Monsterly and have a super cool Nugget and Fang poster from ALA last summer in Chicago. 🙂
By Alison Hertz on November 1, 2013 at 3:19 pm
Aw! You deserve a cupcake with sprinkles!
By Tammi Sauer on November 1, 2013 at 8:47 pm
I will try to do better this year. Thanks for hosting PiBoldMo
By Dorothy Wiese on November 1, 2013 at 3:22 pm
What a great idea! I’m starting my title list now. I had a title hit me yesterday, so that can be my #1! Thank you!
By Denise Bowman on November 1, 2013 at 3:26 pm
Such a fan of Tammi’s! What a great start to PiBoIdMo! Thanks for the support and enthusiasm, Tara!
By Matthew C. Winner on November 1, 2013 at 3:28 pm
Tammi, thanks for the great ideas today!
By Linda Kujawski on November 1, 2013 at 3:30 pm
Thanks for the tips! My daughter loved Princess in Training – and we were definitely drawn to it based on the title. I’ve also found that I’m more drawn to books where the character’s name is in the title.
By Carrie Finison on November 1, 2013 at 3:34 pm
I’m wild about Princess in Training – thanks for a little bit of professional back story 😉 xo
By amberbop on November 1, 2013 at 3:34 pm
Thank you! I have always loved the sound of the word ‘Hassenfeffer’ and this book gave me the perfect opportunity to use it–a lot. 🙂
By Tammi Sauer on November 1, 2013 at 8:50 pm
Love this idea. I travel a lot in the car for my “day job.” I have a small recorder I keep with me for those creative moments in motion. I can easily do this while on the road.
By MSackman on November 1, 2013 at 3:36 pm
Tammi is just the best ever! I was lucky enough to take one of her workshops at a SCBWI a few years ago. Everyone should listen to her…she is one brilliant writer and marketer.
By Sharon K Mayhew on November 1, 2013 at 3:36 pm
Great post Tammi!
By Annie on November 1, 2013 at 3:43 pm
Thanks for the inspiration, Tammi!
By Sharon Wildey Calle on November 1, 2013 at 3:45 pm
What a great start to the challenge. I surprised myself and came up with lots of titles – some silly and unusable – but it was so much fun and got me thinking.
Thank you!
By Tracey Jackson on November 1, 2013 at 3:47 pm
Excellent idea. Thanks for helping with the thought process!
By Julie on November 1, 2013 at 3:51 pm
Titles first. Love it! Thanks!
By lindamartinandersen on November 1, 2013 at 3:52 pm
Tammy – Thanks for this inspiring post. What a great idea. This is going to be so helpful.
By Mary Jane on November 1, 2013 at 3:58 pm
Great idea! I love silly titles…
Thanks!
By mlchurch34@hotmail.com on November 1, 2013 at 4:00 pm
Whoa! Way to go, Tammi Sauer! I can’t wait to try your exercise!
By storyfairy on November 1, 2013 at 4:06 pm
I loved the discussion among Nancy, Heather and yourself. Great information. I really struggle with titles. I appreciate your suggestions. It reminds me of the line from Disney’s 101 Dalmatians, “Melody first my dear, then the lyrics.”
Thanks,
Lynn
By Lynn Ann Carol on November 1, 2013 at 4:07 pm
This will be a first for me: begin with the title! Thanks for the homework, Tammi. I’ll give it a go, promise! And I love NUGGET AND FANG!
By Anne Bromley on November 1, 2013 at 4:12 pm
I’m excited to be doing this.
By Kathy on November 1, 2013 at 4:18 pm
Great pointers! Heard an SCBWI lecture about titles many years ago by a psychologist (sorry, I’ve forgotten his name). His greatest tip was to ask a question in the title that can only be answered by reading the book, thus inciting the reader’s curiosity.
By Alan Stacy on November 1, 2013 at 4:24 pm
Thanks for a great post! I came up with a title for my idea today. 🙂
By writeforapples on November 1, 2013 at 4:43 pm
That was a fun entry to read! I have two picture book manuscripts I’m working on, that also started because of titles I had to have.
By Nidhi Kamra on November 1, 2013 at 4:45 pm
The suggestion about brainstorming titles ignites my creative juices. Great idea.
By Melanie Vickers on November 1, 2013 at 4:46 pm
I don’t think I ever would have come up with the idea to brainstorm titles as a first step. I can’t wait to see how this works. I LOVE Nugget and Fang! What a great book for us all.
By Mary McClellan on November 1, 2013 at 4:48 pm
I often think of title first. And then ….. zip. 🙂 Working on the zip part.
By Mary Jo on November 1, 2013 at 4:50 pm
Great suggestions!
By Erin on November 1, 2013 at 4:52 pm
As soon as I started reading the prompt, I already had what I think is a great title. For me I usual have to have a title before any other thoughts will come. I’m so grateful I found this challenge children books are not where I usual go, but I have two daughters; 7 and 11 and would love to write something for them. Thanks again.
By VS Bryant on November 1, 2013 at 5:06 pm
Doing my homework as we speak. . .
Love the Nugget & Fang trailer.
By llgammon on November 1, 2013 at 5:07 pm
Coming up with great titles is my favorite part! Usually it goes downhill afterwards. HA. Love all your titles, Tammi. Thanks for another great post!
By Kristin Gray on November 1, 2013 at 5:08 pm
Ha!
I believe in you, Kristin! 😉
By Tammi Sauer on November 1, 2013 at 8:55 pm
What a great idea to brainstorm titles at the Library where there are so many words and titles to get you going – another place to get out and go to instead of sitting alone at the computer!
By Lori Dubbin on November 1, 2013 at 5:11 pm
Awesome, I’m totally doing it!
By ktcunningham on November 1, 2013 at 5:21 pm
“A true blue nerd”. Yippie. Love it. It is so me–and so many of the previous ‘posters’ to this blog–I’m just guessing.
By teresamis on November 1, 2013 at 5:22 pm
I love brainstorming titles! I actually had one pop into my mind as I read this post! Now I have to go write it down before I forget it! : )
By ldk on November 1, 2013 at 5:25 pm
I’m with Kristen…The ttles come and then it’s a downhill slide from there 🙂
By Kathy on November 1, 2013 at 5:27 pm
We have solidarity, Kathy! 🙂
By Kristin Gray on November 2, 2013 at 10:37 am
I usually get the title as part of the complete story idea. It will be fun to try it differently and come up with a catchy title to work from. Thanks for a great post.
By Teena Raffa-Mulligan on November 1, 2013 at 5:32 pm
Thanks for the great post! Excited to start the month!
By Ellen Pridmore on November 1, 2013 at 5:34 pm
Great kick-off post, Tammi (hey, it could be PiBoIDMo’s “opening titles” :0) I even love your follow-up thoughts in the comments: “fresh twist,””stellar execution,” and “pay attention” are all great takeaways. Thank you!
By LeslieG on November 1, 2013 at 5:35 pm
Glad to be helpful! 🙂
By Tammi Sauer on November 1, 2013 at 8:52 pm
Great tips to herald the start of PiBoldMo. I love the idea of starting with a title and see what develops. Will start on my ‘homework’ now. What fun!
By Helen Ross on November 1, 2013 at 5:54 pm
Titles are almost my least favorite piece of writing a story! Mostly because I feel so awful at coming up with good ones… but I love how you pointed out the opportunity to use it as a hook (it’s true) while I just hoped an Editor would pick a better title for me. Thanks for your title-writing prompts and this great post 🙂
By Marcy P. on November 1, 2013 at 5:56 pm
Great start to the month!!! I love the idea of working title in! Funny, I never thought to try this before, but it sounds brilliant (and I’m working on my five title ideas already)!
By blanchebaxter on November 1, 2013 at 6:03 pm
I am loving this website and contest already. Thank you Tammi for the terrific information. Great ideas for titles! Love the ones you chose. They are definitely hooks for both kids and parents.
By Deb Gardner Allard on November 1, 2013 at 6:17 pm
Great idea! I like the idea of starting with titles, it has happened a few times for me as well that a title started a story, and I have been quite happy with them. I haven’t tried to think them up on ‘purpose’ but will do that right now!Thanks!
By Yvonne Mes on November 1, 2013 at 6:18 pm
The title? Of course! That’s what we see before anything else in a book.
Thanks Tamm, for getting us started.
By mona861 on November 1, 2013 at 6:23 pm
WOW! PiBoIdMo is off to an excellent start this year with this first blog post. I’m impressed. Thank you for the inspiration, Tammi!
By Danielle Desmond-Luna on November 1, 2013 at 6:23 pm
My critique group has recently discussed how hard it can be to come up with a great title. Thanks for the fun ideas!
By Laura Gehl on November 1, 2013 at 6:31 pm
I’ve been agonizing all day about not having the time/mental energy to brainstorm an idea. Then I was on the treadmill reading blog posts and read yours. I now have 3 ideas based on titles. Thank you!
By suebe on November 1, 2013 at 6:38 pm
Yes!
By Tammi Sauer on November 1, 2013 at 8:37 pm
Wow, what a long way to the bottom. This will be comment #180, unless someone hits the Post Comment button sooner. I’ve decided to do this even thought I’ve got a rowboat load of ideas… there’s still room for 30 or so more.
By Robb Michael G on November 1, 2013 at 6:43 pm
Thanks for the wonderful advice and examples!
By Marilyn Hilton on November 1, 2013 at 6:43 pm
Very timely! I’ve been getting a lot of titles the last couple of days. Thanks for the support.
By Gaye Kick on November 1, 2013 at 6:48 pm
Thanks for the homework challenge! I did it, and it was productive!
By girlvsweather on November 1, 2013 at 6:51 pm
Homework accepted! Thanks for inspiring ideas!
By Sarah Maynard on November 1, 2013 at 6:56 pm
Great advice, Tammi!
I look forward to having fun doing the homework.
Nugget & Fang’s trailer is absolutely adorable.
By Betsy Devany on November 1, 2013 at 6:56 pm
Fang you very much! 🙂
My publisher did a lot of great stuff for N&F…trailer, teacher’s guide, poster, mini website, etc. I was thrilled!
By Tammi Sauer on November 1, 2013 at 8:36 pm
Thanks for a great post, Tammi. I love titles, too 🙂
By karadhya on November 1, 2013 at 7:01 pm
Tammi, I’m always thinking of titles! Sometimes I worry this might constrict me, but your post gave me some much-needed affirmation. Thanks. Amy Smith
By amymariesmith on November 1, 2013 at 7:04 pm
Glad to hear it!
By Tammi Sauer on November 1, 2013 at 8:33 pm
What a great way to generate ideas and focus on what is (or might be…) the core of the story!
By amievc on November 1, 2013 at 7:09 pm
Well said!
By Tammi Sauer on November 1, 2013 at 8:32 pm
I’ve written over a dozen title ideas… This really got my brain working. Thank you for the jump start!
By GeriGuad on November 1, 2013 at 7:19 pm
Thank you for the jump start. I wrote down at least a dozen title ideas. One keeps popping out at me, too…
By geriguad on November 1, 2013 at 7:20 pm
Fantastic, I’m onto my homework right away!
By Shelly Unwin on November 1, 2013 at 7:29 pm
I always find titles difficult too…thanks for the great tips!
By Kari Twedt on November 1, 2013 at 7:32 pm
I’m inspired by the great post! I’ve been brainstorming titles!
By Maggie Webb on November 1, 2013 at 7:35 pm
Titles are so hard for me so starting with the title might be just the jump start I need.
By KJ Bateman on November 1, 2013 at 7:35 pm
To me the title represents the essence of what the book is about. A good title says it all.
By Gail Johnson on November 1, 2013 at 7:56 pm
Agreed!
By Tammi Sauer on November 1, 2013 at 8:30 pm
Great idea!
By Chris Cowan on November 1, 2013 at 7:57 pm
Loved the way you broke the titles down into categories. A great teaching strategy that really got me thinking!
By kamikinard on November 1, 2013 at 8:11 pm
I never thought I would thank someone for giving me homework. Thank you, Tammy…brainstorming 5 titles is an awesome task. I promise to have my assignment ready in the morning.:):)
This was a great post…what an incredible kickoff to PiBoIdMo…and very appropriate as the title is the ‘kickoff’ of a book…with the perfect one, a writer might score a goal!
By viviankirkfield on November 1, 2013 at 8:15 pm
Hahaha! You’re welcome. 🙂
By Tammi Sauer on November 1, 2013 at 8:29 pm
Well first day. I got the Day 1 idea when I was driving, and a beautiful shaped leaf came flying toward me. All by himself. The story started there!
By Jenny Reynolds on November 1, 2013 at 8:25 pm
Great post! I love playing with words and phrases. Just reading your post gave me a title, and today’s PiBoIdMo idea. It’s right there for all to see. Thanks!
By Rick Starkey on November 1, 2013 at 8:29 pm
Oh so inspiring…am jotting titles now…love the category approach
By Jane R Cooper on November 1, 2013 at 8:45 pm
Love the homework assignment! Thank you.
By DaNeil Olson on November 1, 2013 at 8:50 pm
Great book titles are everywhere, one of the best is Princess In Training!
By writeknit on November 1, 2013 at 8:55 pm
It was great to hear that you start with a title. I do the same, just that sometimes I have a great title and no story.
By Cindy Schumerth on November 1, 2013 at 8:59 pm
I’ve never started with the title. I like this idea.
By Kit Umscheid on November 1, 2013 at 9:09 pm
You make it seem so easy. 😉
By Laurie L. Young on November 1, 2013 at 9:13 pm
I love starting with a title! It has brought about many of my manuscripts, although not yet published! I am motivated to keep this up! Thanks for a great post, and congrats on your success! I enjoy your books!
By Carrie Brown on November 1, 2013 at 9:32 pm
Great title tips – thanks!
By Katie Stroh on November 1, 2013 at 9:41 pm
Good tips and great brainstorming today…some interesting ideas in the works!
By Alicia on November 1, 2013 at 9:47 pm
Thank you, Tammi! I am in a writing group that sometimes warms up by writing five titles and passing them to the person on the left (or right). Then the receiver has to pick one of the titles given and we all write for ten minutes. Thank you for the helpful ways to approach titles.
Sincerely,
Elizabeth McBride
Grand Ledge, MI
By Elizabeth McBride on November 1, 2013 at 9:50 pm
What a great idea to start with a title! Thank you, Tammi! Love the homework assignment 🙂 Great post to kick off PiBo 2013!
By Loni Edwards (@LoniEdwards) on November 1, 2013 at 10:01 pm
Great idea to write the title first! Thank you for the inspiration!
By Jennifer Neher on November 1, 2013 at 10:06 pm
Great challenge, Tammi. I’ll be thinking about snazzy titles. Thank you and wishing you continued success with your writing life.
By Carol Gordon Ekster on November 1, 2013 at 10:15 pm
Titles are my favorite part. Thanks for the great PiBoIdMo jump-start!
By Laura L. Madsen on November 1, 2013 at 10:19 pm
Great tips!
By Alicia on November 1, 2013 at 10:26 pm
What a great start. My list is longer than 5 wahoo!
By Shannon Abercrombie on November 1, 2013 at 10:38 pm
Another fabulous way to check off the ideas each day. Yay!
By robinghoward on November 1, 2013 at 11:07 pm
Holy Macaroni … as a new piboidmo-er with a three year old and baby who insists on only sleeping ON people, I set aside time tonight for my husband to hold him so I could read the Day 1 post, and have spent over an hour reading just the comments, which have provided me with seven titles and/or ideas all on their own! Your post was great – looking forward to going back up to the top of this page after my hour+ journey through the comments to try to also come up with some titles for each of the categories you pulled out for us. Going to have to convince my husband that he’s on baby-holding duty for several hours every night this month so I have time peruse the comments after each post of the challenge! 🙂
By Amelia Shearer on November 1, 2013 at 11:34 pm
Ha! Tell him he’s doing this for young readers/listeners everywhere!
Btw…my kids are 13 and 16. I miss baby time. Sign me up for a shift! 🙂
By Tammi Sauer on November 2, 2013 at 4:08 pm
Tammi, what a great idea inciter to create a grabbing title, with the likelihood that a grabbing PB story will naturally follow. Thanks! Got my first idea down today but now I am determined to don it with a catchy title before I move on. Thanks, Damon Dean
By SevenAcreSky on November 2, 2013 at 12:29 am
I love starting with titles too! The manuscript I’m working on started with a name I loved and then it grew into a title and blossomed into a story. I love your title challenge! Off to jot a few down!
By Dorina Lazo Gilmore on November 2, 2013 at 12:48 am
Thanks you! Great way to start off the month…
By Mary Rose on November 2, 2013 at 1:30 am
I can’t believe I almost forgot to comment! This is so exciting. Titles is a great way to start. I need to make sure I’m putting everything in the same area so I don’t lose it later. You know, when I really need to work on things. I hope I get tons of ideas, because I’m all out. (Suffering from tired mommy syndrom TMS). Good luck everyone!
By Dani Duck on November 2, 2013 at 2:10 am
I am so excited! I love PiBoIdMo! Thank you, Tara. And thank you, Tammi for starting the ideas flowing. Carol Breedlove
By bucherwurm65 on November 2, 2013 at 3:12 am
Great post, thank you Tammi! I have to say I love great titles, they nearly always hook me. Given time I can usually come up with pretty good titles. Thanks for the ideas.
By patientdreamer on November 2, 2013 at 5:40 am
Oops! forgot to mention my name is Diane Tulloch!
By patientdreamer on November 2, 2013 at 5:41 am
Thank you Tammi, I don’t feel like such an ‘outcast’ now when I start with a title!
I recently had an idea from artwork on ‘Storybird,’ (Thanks for the tip Tara)depicting two ‘witches’ on broomsticks apparently circling each other.
I was keen to write for Halloween and after gazing at the art for a day, arrived at. ‘Which Witch is Which?’
I realise it’s ‘only’ Storybird, but it’s been my most successful work to date on the site, thanks too, I suspect, the ‘snappy’ title.
Thank you for the affirmation and wishing you continued success.
Boo
By Boostad on November 2, 2013 at 5:43 am
Starting from a title is exciting!! Almost forbidden. Am looking forward to trying it 🙂 Thanks for sharing your discoveries!
By dzipeto on November 2, 2013 at 5:46 am
thanks for the great ideas for creating a title…love them
By Tania Cole on November 2, 2013 at 6:12 am
Wonderful suggestions!!! Thanks!
By Gail Kamer on November 2, 2013 at 7:46 am
More often than not, that is where I begin…with a title, a catchy line, a cool name, something funny one of my students said that had a rhythm to it, etc…Thanks for the encouragement that ideas are, literally, ALL around us!
By RaChelle Lisiecki on November 2, 2013 at 7:51 am
Ooooh, great ideas! Thank you Tammi. 😀
By megmillerwrites on November 2, 2013 at 7:56 am
Thanks Tammi, your post really worked for me! Great way to kick off the months…
By cat jones on November 2, 2013 at 8:05 am
great article !
By nicole snitselaar on November 2, 2013 at 8:41 am
Thank you Tammi for sharing. I am glad to hear that you have thought of titles first. I sometimes get titles first and have heard not to go there which is against my gut feelings.
By DianeKHower on November 2, 2013 at 8:48 am
Sorry to sound like Buddly the Elf, but…titles are my FAVORITE! What could be more fun than encapsulating an entire book in just 1-5 words? And I like how you broke down the different variations.
By Diana Murray on November 2, 2013 at 8:52 am
Since I’ve always been hooked by book titles, I love this idea.
By Marty McCormick on November 2, 2013 at 8:56 am
Can’t wait to get started on my brainstorm!
By Clare welsh on November 2, 2013 at 9:07 am
One of my current favorite books and titles is Margaret Mahy’s The Girl Who Washed in Moonlight. The GIrl/Boy Who…can be an interesting frame for a great title/story.
By amomnextdoor on November 2, 2013 at 9:09 am
I LOVE brainstorming titles!
By Lisa Rivard on November 2, 2013 at 9:10 am
This is a great idea generating activity. And fun, too.
By Angela De Groot on November 2, 2013 at 9:18 am
What a real awesome blog. We are so consumed with our characters and plots and making everything fall into place; that sometimes we forget how important it is to have that awesome title! And we think “Oh I can come up with something later” it’s not easy. Thank you Tammi!!!!
By Wafa on November 2, 2013 at 9:31 am
Well that was easy and effective! No wonder you’ve been successful with such good idea cultivation strategies 🙂
By laurimeyers on November 2, 2013 at 9:35 am
What a great start to the month! Thank you for breaking down a large task into a smaller, fun thought process.
By Linda Thompson on November 2, 2013 at 9:36 am
Thanks for your tips. I’m the worst when it comes to titling. But, I used your tips yesterday and came up with some great story ideas!
By Margaret Greanias on November 2, 2013 at 9:49 am
I also covet the titles others have brilliantly invented! Thanks for sparking a great idea–I will jot down title ideas along with story ideas this month. Maybe I’ll think of one or two brilliant titles of my own!
Thanks, Tammi!!
By Marcia Berneger on November 2, 2013 at 10:08 am
This is an idea I had never come across. What a great brainstorming tool to look at titles first and story details later. Thanks Tammi.
By RadSheri on November 2, 2013 at 11:24 am
Fantastic idea! Thanks for the tips.
By ajstemen on November 2, 2013 at 11:40 am
Inspiring post, great information, and the best part is I have an excuse to act on it right now ’cause #PiBoIdMo [I have a feeling I am going to be repeating myself throughout the month].
By Kirsten Carlson (@kirstencarlson) on November 2, 2013 at 11:56 am
Great ideas! I adore Tammi’s books.
By Kathryn Ault Noble on November 2, 2013 at 11:58 am
Thanks for the great idea!
By Anne Mullin on November 2, 2013 at 12:14 pm
Great advice, especially for children’s books. A snappy title can be the springboard for an entire story.
By phinnum on November 2, 2013 at 12:53 pm
Beginning with a title is such an outstanding idea. Thank you for the inspiration. ~Suzy Leopold
By throughtheprairiegardengate on November 2, 2013 at 1:10 pm
Fantastic breakdown of how to get inspired with a catchy title. Loved Scaredy Squirrel and Warning (and Princess in Training and Nugget). Can’t wait for Penny and Sudipta’s new books!
Thanks for taking us to school, Tammi!
By Stacy Couch on November 2, 2013 at 1:41 pm
Thanks Tammi! Your post got me thinking not only about published titles that have really stood out to me, but separating the story from the title and imagining where the title would have taken me if I were writing the story – a fun creative writing exercise!
– Amanda Sincavage
By City Sights for Kids on November 2, 2013 at 1:41 pm
Alright! Title brain storming here I come.
By Britta Jones on November 2, 2013 at 2:37 pm
Thanks for the shout out, girlfriend, but considering how jealous I am of you, I’m ok with you being jealous over T WRECKS! 😛
By sudiptabq on November 2, 2013 at 2:47 pm
Please. You’re the hot math wizard with killer shoes. You win.
By Tammi Sauer on November 2, 2013 at 4:03 pm
I calculated the number of combinations from two variables. That is so far from being a math wizard that Caltech has asked for my degrees back.
By sudiptabq on November 2, 2013 at 4:10 pm
Thanks for the challenge. I always do best with a clear goal in mind!
By June Smalls on November 2, 2013 at 6:38 pm
What great, “story trigger,” idea.
I look forward to looking at all of your picture books.
Thanks for sharing!
By Stella Jane Stauffer on November 2, 2013 at 6:56 pm
I love this advice, Tammi! I’ve written a handful of manuscripts that came from a title. I felt like I was working in the wrong direction at first, but it works for me. So maybe it’s not such a crazy idea!
By erin on November 2, 2013 at 8:00 pm
Great post Tammi! Love a title that really grabs you. 🙂
By Susanne Whitehouse on November 2, 2013 at 8:06 pm
Great start!
By Alicia van Thiel on November 2, 2013 at 8:24 pm
Titles always grab me too! I’m a day late, but getting ready to brainstorm my titles in my PiBoIdMo journal now! Thanks.
By Okle Miller on November 2, 2013 at 9:23 pm
Confession: I *really* struggle with witty titles. I’m always the one saying, “Why didn’t I think of that?!?” But I’m trusting you, Tammi, and giving the exercise a shot! 🙂
By Maria Burel on November 2, 2013 at 10:22 pm
Thank you! This is a great exercise.
By Cindy Montoya on November 2, 2013 at 11:26 pm
Great suggestions! I just came up with my first book idea by just reading through the book title suggestions, thank you!
By Perfecting Motherhood on November 3, 2013 at 2:13 am
Thank you for your fab tips. I’ll have fun with this. A great title will be terrific inspiration to springboard a story.
By Leslee Anne Hewson on November 3, 2013 at 6:49 am
Good advice. Thank you.
By Rosie Pova on November 3, 2013 at 10:20 am
Nice advice! 🙂
By thiskidreviewsbooks on November 3, 2013 at 12:58 pm
Great strategy advice!
By LovableLobo on November 3, 2013 at 1:12 pm
Great advice! I frequently start with a title as well, most of the time it sticks, but sometimes the book changes so much from what I had expected that the title ends up being something totally different.
By Scott Ralph on November 3, 2013 at 2:39 pm
Wonderful post. I have to admit most of my PiBoIdMo ideas are title concepts… and the harder part for me has been figuring out what comes AFTER the title! 🙂
By mbeaversillustration on November 3, 2013 at 4:30 pm
Hi Tammi. Coming up with a title is usually my favorite part-thus, an excellent homework assignment. Side note: When my husband and I were thinking about boy names for our first child we thought Wyatt was a great one until we thought about saying, “Quiet, Wyatt!” and realized we couldn’t do it without laughing–not the message a parent wants to send! I’m glad you found a use for the name.
By Jennifer Ali on November 3, 2013 at 5:13 pm
I’m working on titles thisbpiboidmo.
By Stacy s Jensen on November 3, 2013 at 8:14 pm
Titles are frequently the hook for readers and editors. I love the idea of titles first, then the story. Thanks for the homework. It will be a blast.
By Quinn Cole on November 3, 2013 at 8:29 pm
What a great way to kick off the month! I love coming up with fun book titles with my kids. Maybe some of those should make it into my 30 day list. :).
By Michelle Mapp on November 3, 2013 at 8:46 pm
This was really helpful … already a handful of ideas!
By Jen Carroll on November 4, 2013 at 12:26 am
Great tips! I’m trying to come up with a title for my manuscript and this gave me a new way to think about it. Thanks!
By artsyandi on November 4, 2013 at 12:48 am
I can feel my brain stretching already…thanks!
By Sheryl Murray on November 4, 2013 at 1:27 am
What a fabulous idea generator! Tammi, you’re a terrific teacher, and I had so much fun meeting you at our Indiana SCBWI event in Sept. Sending hugs.
By Kristi Valiant on November 4, 2013 at 10:12 am
I always feel like I am horrible at creating titles. Thanks for the tips, I’ve never thought of a title as the starting point before but I will definitely give it a try!
By jdrury002 on November 4, 2013 at 10:50 am
These are great ideas! I don’t usually start with a title, so this is a new way of looking at things for me. Thank you!
-Michele Katz/Creations By Mit
By creationsbymit on November 4, 2013 at 11:17 am
Thank you for your post. I came up with two titles for possible PB’s using your suggestions!
By patriciamillerbooks on November 4, 2013 at 3:48 pm
Thanks for the fun and useful advice!!
By mlucero30 on November 4, 2013 at 3:50 pm
This is actually good advice. As I was listening to KUER this morning, an author said that a book in which sales has slowed- just changed the title, nothing else and sales dramatically improved. I think that the title is what catches a reader’s eye when searching for books on a shelf..
By Angela on November 4, 2013 at 4:29 pm
I love titles. Thanks for the post. I’ll get brainstorming… Clare (PS When I first read Penny’s There Was an Old Dragon I wished I’d written it too!)
By Juliet Clare Bell on November 4, 2013 at 5:03 pm
Great idea!! Thank you.
By Anita on November 4, 2013 at 5:21 pm
I am ALL about the titles, too. And P.S. Yours are GREAT! 🙂
By Cathy C. Hall on November 4, 2013 at 8:38 pm
Titles
entice the reader….why didn’t I think of starting there?
By ldrewes001 on November 4, 2013 at 9:20 pm
I love coming up with titles too. It’s funny how a few simple words can generate so many idea!
By Kelly Parker on November 5, 2013 at 9:43 am
Title this post Fantastic! Thanks, Tammi (and Tara).
By Annette Simon on November 5, 2013 at 10:23 am
Titles are definitely tricky for me. My mind often goes blank. Thanks for the inspiring words. 🙂
By bleedraper on November 5, 2013 at 11:47 am
I am terribly jealous of the “Tyrannosaurus Wrecks” title, too. Great title examples. Thanks for the inspiration. 🙂
By Brenna Friesner on November 5, 2013 at 3:59 pm
(Tried to post this comment but it didn’t go thru. I hope it doesn’t post twice.)
Great advice. I wrote my 5 titles and ideas for one of them are already swimming around my head. Thanks!
Also, I must agree…Tyrannosaurus Wrecks is a brilliant title. I love puns and word play and this one makes me smile every time I read it. I bet the book is looks of fun to read.
By Linda E.H. on November 5, 2013 at 6:04 pm
I really enjoyed Nugget and Fang. Thank you for the inspiration!
By Viji on November 5, 2013 at 8:40 pm
Love this post – titles always grab my attention first.
By Angela Padron on November 5, 2013 at 9:06 pm
Wonderful idea! Terrific post.
By Jen DuBose on November 5, 2013 at 9:19 pm
I’m so glad that many of you got a lot out of my post. Here’s hoping it leads to some success stories. 🙂
Happy brainstorming and writing out there!
By Tammi Sauer on November 5, 2013 at 9:28 pm
This is something I have played around with as a car game with my husband and adult children. Time to get serious!
By The World Is My Cuttlefish on November 6, 2013 at 6:01 am
Great brainstorming idea! Thank you!
By Cherie Behrens on November 6, 2013 at 1:33 pm
Great ideas for wordplay. Thanks!
By Donna J. Shepherd on November 6, 2013 at 1:37 pm
Ann Birnie – Lying in a pile of fall leaves is my best inspiration. Don’t ask why, I have no idea!
By Ann Birnie on November 6, 2013 at 5:13 pm
I love titles and names too and will certainly be thinking creatively for titles in this challenge. I enjoyed the blog post. Thanks.
By Lorraine Marwood on November 6, 2013 at 7:43 pm
Love this exercise. I brainstorm with my early learners all the time. Let’s see how well I do. Thanks heaps!
By Pamela Courtney on November 6, 2013 at 10:41 pm
Great insight.
By Lacey Gunter on November 7, 2013 at 2:12 am
Well it’s taken me nearly a week to get here but it was worth it! Thanks Tammi for these great tips. I’m off to do my homework 🙂
By Liz Miller on November 7, 2013 at 7:24 am
Good idea to start with the title and love the specific brainstorming guidelines. Thanks!
By Lena Podesta on November 7, 2013 at 5:19 pm
Super helpful advice. Thank you so much!
By heather sisson on November 8, 2013 at 10:27 am
Thanks for sharing these helpful ideas, Tammy. I love that you start with titles sometimes. That’s often they way I start, too. : )
By Beth MacKinney on November 8, 2013 at 2:01 pm
Great ideas and fabulous titles! I’m actually looking forward to this homework.
By artsyandi on November 9, 2013 at 1:08 am
Thanks for sharing, Tammy! Very helpful!
By vinvogel on November 9, 2013 at 5:30 pm
Thanks, Tammy – very helpful idea!
By vinvogel on November 9, 2013 at 6:17 pm
Thank you for being such an inspiration. I have plenty of ideas. It is more a matter of getting them out of my head and on to the page. How I struggle with the first line of every story.
By MichelleLynn on November 13, 2013 at 10:57 pm
Thanks for the tip. I’m looking forward to trying this one today.
By cindymbell on November 17, 2013 at 1:09 pm
I love the idea of thinking of titles and seeing where they take me. I enjoyed PRINCESS IN TRAINING of which I found through this process last year. Thanks for your inspiring words.
By Debbie Faith Mickelson on November 24, 2013 at 4:02 pm
Thanks so much for your awesome post, Tammi! I skimmed it in the beginning of the month, but fell behind with PiBoIdMo and am going back through all the posts, and yours helped me come up with a couple of ideas. 🙂
By Mindy Alyse Weiss on November 30, 2013 at 2:03 am
Great advice from a great author!
By nessa dee on November 30, 2013 at 12:35 pm
I always look forward to your PiBoIdMo posts, Tammi. This one inspired 9 title ideas! Thank you!
By heatherpreusser on November 30, 2013 at 3:29 pm
Tammi I zoomed back to your post the last day of PiGoldMo to say thank you, thank you, thank you. I have my 30 ideas in large part because of your generous post. My tried old brain just opened up and shouted I am here, I am here.
By Kristine Gunnell on November 30, 2013 at 10:13 pm
I used these tips to generate several story ideas.
By Laurie J. Edwards on December 2, 2013 at 11:17 pm
Love the idea of brainstorming titles first and then seeing what comes to you from there.
By majanecka on November 30, 2014 at 12:24 am