by Kami Kinard
I’m one of those people who has always known I wanted to be an author. What? You too? It’s pretty common (but not necessary) among we writer types. When I first started out, more than a decade ago, I wasn’t exactly sure what type of writer I wanted to be. So I played around with different genres. It was a lot of fun.
But I wanted to do more than have fun. So I devoured Writer’s Market and Children’s Writers Market. I purchased books of writerly advice, and books featuring quotes from authors.
Whenever I felt inspired, I wrote and wrote and wrote. When I didn’t feel inspired to write, I used my free time to do other things. I took courses in metal working, I learned bead stringing techniques, I started a small jewelry-making business, and I even learned to play the banjo.
Then I purchased the book that changed my methods, and ultimately led to publication success.
You might say I experienced a lifestyle change because of this book. One of the quotes featured in it was just a few words from Jack London. Here, I’ve made a little poster of it for you, so you can print it out and hang in your workspace.
Reading this quote resulted in an important ah-ha moment for me. The reason I wasn’t moving forward with my writing was that I was waiting for inspiration to lead me. When it didn’t, I was wandering off of the trail. I realized that in order to capture my dreams, I needed to focus on my quest for inspiration. I gave my metalworking supplies to a cousin in design school. The banjo went to a friend who’d borrowed it a few times. The jewelry making business was sold. I kept the bead stringing supplies because—hey—everyone needs a hobby! (And if you’re serious about this, writing can’t be your hobby.)
Then, I grabbed my club and started spending my lunch break in libraries. I chased down inspiration between the covers of books, captured ideas, and caged them into poems that were soon published in children’s magazines.
I hunted down the idea for this poem, sold to Jack and Jill, on the “UBA” page of a rhyming dictionary. Scuba and Tuba? What’s not to love?
I stumbled across the idea for this story about gopher tortoises, published in Ladybug, while stalking a story about alligators. (The alligator story escaped me, but at least I didn’t come away from the excursion empty handed.)
I tracked down inspiration in unlikely places, like the stroller handle where an inch worm journeyed, and an autumn maple that was reminiscent of a gigantic golden feather. Often, as in these two cases, the inspiration resulted in stories I was able to sell.
Eventually, my club and I apprehended inspiration between the pages of my old middle school diaries, and my trophy looks like this.
My first published book!
You can find inspiration almost anywhere. But you have to stalk it. Sniff the air. Listen for it. Be alert to its presence.
Now, when people ask me, “Where do you find inspiration?”
I answer, “Anywhere I have five minutes of free time.” And this is true. I don’t wait for huge blocks of time, for peace and quiet, or for good atmosphere. Give me five minutes, and I’ll find inspiration. After all, I’m never without the tools of my trade. That’s the best thing about working with words: they’re lightweight, omnipresent, and free!
When Tara invited me to post for PiBoIdMo, my first response was, “I haven’t sold a picture book.” True confession. Notice I put this at the end of the post! Years ago, I imagined I would author only picture books and poetry. But pursing inspiration led me in an unexpected direction. My first published book was not the picture book I predicted it would be, but a middle grade novel.
November is filled with inspiration and ideas. As the month draws to a close, I invite you to pick up your club and keep chasing inspiration. Focus on your quarry. Be relentless. You never really know where the chase will lead you, but if you can capture your inspiration with words, the award is magnificent!
Bonus: If you’d like more PiBoIdMo tips, check out my blog nerdychicksrule.com for another post about writing.
Author Bio: Kami Kinard’s poetry, articles, and stories have been published in some of the world’s best children’s magazines. Her first middle grade novel, The Boy Project (Scholastic 2012), will soon be followed by a companion novel, The Boy Problem (Scholastic 2014). A former public educator, Kami currently teaches writing for children and adults and leads writing workshops at conferences and retreats. She lives in balmy, buggy, and beautiful Beaufort, SC with her husband, two children, and the world’s smartest dog. You can learn more about her and her books by visiting her website KamiKinard.com or her blog at nerdychicksrule.com.
Kami is giving away a critique of up to ten pages of any single children’s manuscript. An experienced critiquer, Kami has critiqued picture books, novels, and poems that have gone on to be published.
This prize will be given away at the conclusion of PiBoIdMo. You are eligible for this prize if:
- You have registered for PiBoIdMo.
- You have commented ONCE ONLY on today’s post (as per Annette’s spine-tingling challenge).
- You have completed the PiBoIdMo challenge. (You will have to sign the PiBoIdMo Pledge at the end of the event.)
Good luck, everyone!
385 comments
Comments feed for this article
November 29, 2013 at 9:54 am
Courtenay Schurman
Several of my own PiBo ideas may turn into longer early readers or MG novels. No matter, coming up with the ideas and pursuing no matter what is what is important! Loved the post! Thanks!
November 29, 2013 at 9:56 am
Laura Gehl
Thanks, Kami. I’m actually reworking a PB into a chapter book right now!
November 29, 2013 at 9:56 am
taracreel
I loved your post! I’d also like to know what book it was that changed your life 🙂 Thanks for sharing!
November 29, 2013 at 9:57 am
rosemary basham
Amazing how after a month of posts about finding inspiration there are still fresh perspectives. Thanks!
November 29, 2013 at 9:58 am
preachteach
I’m learning that just one little piece of inspiration sometimes isn’t enough- sometimes it takes inspiration on inspiration! Thanks! Erica
November 29, 2013 at 9:59 am
Jessie Miller (@pigknit)
One thing I’ve aways noticed about big minds who really made a difference in the world is that they never. stopped. pushing. One of my favorite quotes that this article reminded me of is “if you don’t chase your dreams, you’ll never catch them.” great post!
November 30, 2013 at 12:08 am
kamikinard
Another great quote! Thanks for sharing. I’ve loved reading all of the comments!
November 29, 2013 at 10:00 am
nicole snitselaar
Your article made me laugh ! Like if you were going into a monaster ! Taking your woes 🙂
I was always day dreaming… that’s where I found inspiration ! And I suppose having conversations with myself ! 😉
I think the most difficult part is making sence out of ideas…
Thanks for sharing !
November 29, 2013 at 10:01 am
Deirdre Englehart
Thank you for sharing your perspective!
November 29, 2013 at 10:01 am
sueheaven
Oh I love that scuba tuba poem! Thanks for sharing how you stalked and clubbed your ideas into submission. The think I’ve found is that I might think I’m on the track of one idea, only to find that it was something else- totally unexpected. Those are the most fun!
November 29, 2013 at 10:02 am
Kim
I love that Jack London quote. And the tuba poem is adorable.
November 29, 2013 at 10:03 am
storyfairy
This is good advice, but I’ve found that inspiration is easier to find for new ideas than ideas I’ve been working on for a long time. Does anyone have any advice for the latter?
November 30, 2013 at 12:21 am
kamikinard
Hmmm Storyfairy, there is definitely something to that, but when I’m stuck on an old idea, I usually bounce it off of a friend and brainstorm. It is easier for me to revitalize an old idea if I get some new perspectives.
November 29, 2013 at 10:04 am
Linda Gammon
Just what I needed today. Thanks for the encouragement. Sometimes I try to force an idea into my preconceived notion of its form rather than exploring its possibilities. (But I do tend to cringe when my critique group suggests my poem would work better as a novel!)
November 29, 2013 at 10:05 am
Susan Latta
You’re so right about waiting for inspiration. Writing is a habit. Everyday, no matter what! Thanks for the post.
November 29, 2013 at 10:06 am
msmo1958
Love the quote and how true it is! I love it when an idea comes out of nowhere and begs for attention. Thanks for the inspiration!
November 29, 2013 at 10:08 am
aliciaminor
Another inspirational motivated post. I agree that we have to follow our dreams no matter where it leads us to because at the end of the rainbow you never know what you’re going to find. Thanks for sharing.
November 29, 2013 at 10:08 am
LovableLobo
Thanks for inspiring us to keep up a good “hunt”. Great post!
November 29, 2013 at 10:09 am
Jennifer Kaap
I want to know that writing book that changed your life! Thanks for the inspiration 🙂
November 29, 2013 at 10:10 am
Lisa Rivard
So much great info! I don’t want this month to end!
November 29, 2013 at 10:11 am
Hayley Barrett
Thanks for the terrific advice, Kami!
November 29, 2013 at 10:13 am
Lori Mozdzierz
“That’s the best thing about working with words: they’re lightweight, omnipresent, and free!”
Love it!
November 29, 2013 at 10:13 am
Anne Bielby
Good stuff!
November 29, 2013 at 10:13 am
B Lee Draper
‘Stalking inspiration’ is inspiring in itself. Thank you so much for this post. 🙂
November 29, 2013 at 10:15 am
Lisa Robinson
I like the idea of stalking inspiration, but I might consider it as going after it with a net rather than a club. 🙂
November 30, 2013 at 12:25 am
kamikinard
A net will work, Lisa. I almost suggested a butterfly net at the end of the post! But since the club worked for me, I stuck with it!
November 29, 2013 at 10:16 am
Susan Nicholas
Great advice! I’m ready to take my club and go after some new story ideas.
November 29, 2013 at 10:18 am
Lucy
Def stuff I needed to hear. Great post!
November 29, 2013 at 10:19 am
Mary Kate O'Keefe
A very inspiring post. Today I will chase that inspiration with a club!
November 29, 2013 at 10:23 am
danielledufayet
Great advice! I agree, you have to stay open to ideas. That mindset will keep your eyes open to all the possibilities because they truly are everywhere. Then you have to sift through them to find the real gems.
November 29, 2013 at 10:24 am
Mary McClellan
Learning to not wait for inspiration was one of the most valuable lessons I learned about writing. Now if I can just combine that with (way more) BIC!! Loved hearing about what sparked ideas for your writing.
November 29, 2013 at 10:24 am
kamikinard
Thanks everyone for the comments! Since a couple of you have asked, it was really more the Jack London quote within the book that changed my life! And since I shared the quote, I didn’t share the book title, but it was a paperback notebook with author quotes in it called A Writer’s Notebook: Insights from Writers with Space for Personal Notes. It’s no longer in print! But I’m glad I picked it up back when I did. Hooray for author quotes!
November 29, 2013 at 10:24 am
katmaz2012
Thanks for the inspiration. I love that like fun. I do too!
November 29, 2013 at 10:26 am
teresa m.i. schaefer (@TMISchaefer)
Got my club. Going clubbing. Thanks Kami.
November 29, 2013 at 10:27 am
Kathy Moncrief
Really liked your post. I’ve got my club in hand and I’m going to FIND what I’m looking for!
November 29, 2013 at 10:28 am
danacarey1
Great story. And excellent inspiration. Thanks, Kami!
November 29, 2013 at 10:29 am
Wendy Greenley
Your scuba tuba gave me the laugh I needed this morning. Thanks, Kami!
November 29, 2013 at 10:30 am
Robyn Campbell
Hahaha, I LOVE that Jack London quote. It has actually been an inspiration to me many times. Thanks for stopping by and giving us a dose of inspiration. *grabs baseball bat* Off I go a huntin’! 🙂
November 29, 2013 at 10:34 am
gpatmiller
Great quote! Plus there’s the satisfaction of whacking with the club, kind of like Little Bunny Foo Foo and the field mice. Hey! That gives me an idea…WHACK!
November 29, 2013 at 10:34 am
littledbl
Thanks for sharing Kami! I also have a PB turning Chapter Book/MG. 🙂 Going to get myself a club!
November 29, 2013 at 10:35 am
viviankirkfield
Teddy Roosevelt said, ‘Walk softly, but carry a big stick.” (he got that idea from an old Native American or African proverb) My stick/club is eagerly finding ideas EVERYWHERE! PiBoIdMo has been fantastic because of people like you, Kami, who share their journey so that ours may be easier.:) Thank you and best of luck in your writing!
November 29, 2013 at 10:36 am
Jill Lyttle Tadros
Wonderful reminder to be ruthless in the pursuit of our dreams!
November 29, 2013 at 10:38 am
cherylsec
I really enjoyed your post, Kami. I love the quote by Jack London.Thank you for inspiring us with your words!
November 29, 2013 at 10:39 am
Nancy Armo
Stories are everywhere. To be aware of them when they bump into you is the challenge. Nice post on being pro-active in capturing them. Thanks!
November 29, 2013 at 10:39 am
emazza1217
I like clubs! Onto the chase! Thankful for the colorful variety of contributions.
November 29, 2013 at 10:41 am
Heather Gale
Wow, loved reading your column – similar to my own journey; in writing and researching for a murder mystery, finding a far more fascinating morsel that took a new turn . Always figured it took a club to get the job done – thanks for confirming!
November 29, 2013 at 10:42 am
bnkupetz
Enjoyed your post, Kami! I have printed several copies of your Jack London poster and they are hanging all over the house. Now, I’m off for a little stalking and clubbing! : – )
November 29, 2013 at 10:43 am
Lori Dubbin
Love your “The Scuba Tuba” poem and premise for “Burrow Borrowers.” And love that you’re a middle grade writer. One of my picture book ideas is going in too many directions and I was encouraged to turn it into a middle grade book by a beta reader. I will be spending time and “going clubbing” on your website for help and insight with that. Thanks for your fresh perspective on day 29.
November 29, 2013 at 10:44 am
Daryl Gottier
Thanks for the inspiration…one more good reason to go to the children’s library instead of the mall today!
November 29, 2013 at 10:44 am
yetteejo
I like the quote. A good well meaning whack on the noggin would do me well sometimes.
November 29, 2013 at 10:45 am
Cheryl Mansfield
Cami, thanks for the great post. I loved The Boyfriend Project.
November 29, 2013 at 10:45 am
Mary Warth
Thanks Kami! I continue to be inspired to make it happen, not to wait for it to happen. I love the quote, it’s going up on the wall if my classroom!
November 29, 2013 at 10:47 am
Laurie Young
What a great post! Thank you so much!! I am now going to find my club and get inspired!!!!
November 29, 2013 at 10:50 am
Nancy Tandon
Participating in “contests” like PiBoIdMo has helped me stop waiting for the perfect morning, perfect idea, and perfect cup of coffee to all come together at one time before starting to write. I love the club quote -thanks for the printable version!
November 29, 2013 at 10:52 am
Debra Daugherty
As I read your post, I thought, she’s like me. I’m tired of waiting, I’m swinging my club.
November 29, 2013 at 10:53 am
Dawn
Love the quote!
November 29, 2013 at 10:53 am
Sue Poduska
The great thing about so many of our stories is that they do what they want to do. Thanks for the reminder that even our own ideas can send us in unexpected directions. Grabbing that club now and attacking some of those ideas!
November 29, 2013 at 10:54 am
Melanie Vickers
I love a good quote to inspire me. Thanks to you and Jack London. In seventh-grade, I created a rendition of The Boy Project but more Social Studies than Science based. My Latin teacher confiscated it one day. I’d give anything to have it back.
November 30, 2013 at 12:28 am
kamikinard
I would hate to lose something like that! But if you have any writing from those years around, I encourage you to go back and read it. 🙂
November 29, 2013 at 10:54 am
Johnell
Great quote. Thank you.
November 29, 2013 at 10:55 am
Linda Knoll
Almost there.
November 29, 2013 at 11:00 am
Michele Norman
I’m encouraged by you and many of the people participating this month who allow themselves to explore new genres. It’s instructive. Thank you!
November 29, 2013 at 11:06 am
Gaye kick
Stalking inspiration! I love it! I’m going to get a club today for a visual.
November 29, 2013 at 11:07 am
cathy john biggerstaff
Thanks, Kami! Love the image of attacking writing ideas with a club. Thanks for your advice.
November 29, 2013 at 11:08 am
Tracy Molitors
I’ll just keep clubbing my way toward publication!
November 29, 2013 at 11:12 am
Diana Delosh
Great post! As it’s day 29 and I only have 19 PB ideas, I better get my club out and go hunting. Need 11 ideas by tomorrow night midnight!
November 29, 2013 at 11:12 am
deborahholtwilliams
Kami–great post! I’ve struggled with having good luck in magazines but no luck at all with books, so it was very encouraging to see that you’ve made that leap!
November 29, 2013 at 11:15 am
pathaap
Kami – loved your post. Thanks for the great ideas. (And your poem made laugh!)
November 29, 2013 at 11:16 am
Linda Thompson
Thanks for the post. Now where is my big stick….?
November 29, 2013 at 11:16 am
Christy Mihaly
Kami, Thanks so much for sharing your stories. Time to pick up my club. And once those ideas are down, lots of clubbing them into shape. Good luck to everybody on the last day (or two) of PiBoIdMo.
November 29, 2013 at 11:18 am
klmcmorranmaus
I enjoyed your post. Thank you for sharing.
November 29, 2013 at 11:19 am
lindaschueler
I’m picking up my club.
November 29, 2013 at 11:20 am
Stephanie Shaw
Wonderful post. Thank you, Kami. I particularly like how your path took you from one genre to another.
November 29, 2013 at 11:20 am
kathalsey
Love the Jack London quote! Grabbin’ my club! THE BOY PROJECT sound like a perfect tween book. (Taught 7th grade for 17 years!)
November 29, 2013 at 11:21 am
Malena Fuentes
A commont advice of all posts. Well, that must be something.
November 29, 2013 at 11:24 am
marciecolleen
I have had a similar path and suddenly realized that I had to stop dabbling and commit or I wasn’t going to get anywhere. Thanks for the inspiration and pep talk to keep grabbing that club!
November 29, 2013 at 11:24 am
Jessica
I need to remember to break out my club and get going…
November 29, 2013 at 11:28 am
Susan Cabael
“Anywhere I have five minutes of free time” is a great answer to the inspiration question. Writing certainly is about the work and not the spark that gets you going. Hmm…now to decide if I can give away a hobby. Your advice is wonderful, but what was the book?
November 29, 2013 at 11:28 am
cat jones
Now where did I put that club…?
November 29, 2013 at 11:29 am
Sharon Nix Jones
Thank you for the inspiration! I will take 5 minutes here and there and hunt for inspiration with my club.
November 29, 2013 at 11:29 am
Kathy May
Even the comments on this post are inspiring! Thanks, Kami Kinard!
November 30, 2013 at 12:36 am
kamikinard
I agree! I’m loving reading them. I wish my day hadn’t been so crazy-busy so I could respond to all of them!
November 29, 2013 at 11:30 am
Marty McCormick
You’re right on the money, Kami. I’ve dabbled off and on for way too long. Thanks to this month, and all the great advice, I’m determined to start seriously making things happen. I love the comment that 5 minutes is enough. No more excuses about waiting for the perfect time, atmosphere, etc. Thanks for tons of inspiration today!
November 29, 2013 at 11:36 am
Angela Padron
Very inspiring post – thanks!
November 29, 2013 at 11:39 am
colleen kosinski
Loved hearing about your journey.
November 29, 2013 at 11:39 am
Claire Annette Noland
I’ve got my club and five minutes. I’m off to get inspired.
Thanks for your post.
November 29, 2013 at 11:42 am
Peyton Leung
Thanks for sharing your success story, Kami. I’ll definitely start stalking to feed my creative side!
Once again, thanks to Tara for PiBoIdMo.
November 29, 2013 at 11:44 am
rgstones
I love that quote. Going to hang it above my computer.
November 29, 2013 at 11:45 am
Jacqueline Adams
I love that you need only five minutes to find inspiration. That eliminates the excuses!
November 29, 2013 at 11:49 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
I’m tying a rope and a giant carrot to my club to drag one last PiBoIdMo idea out of hiding and into my notebook! Thanks Kami!
November 29, 2013 at 11:58 am
Laura Purdie Salas
Yes! Writing might be for thinkers and dreamers, but a writing *career* is for people willing to go after it with a club:>) Love your stories!
November 29, 2013 at 11:58 am
Heather Greene
Thanks Kami! Putting that quote up over my desk!
November 29, 2013 at 12:02 pm
Eileen
Great post. Thank you.
November 29, 2013 at 12:03 pm
skeerswriter
My favorite writing quote! Thanks for an interesting post!
November 29, 2013 at 12:03 pm
Lori Alexander
Great quote. And I used “tuba” and “scuba” in one of my recent PB drafts. Thanks for the great post, Kami!
November 29, 2013 at 12:05 pm
Angela De Groot
Well said, Kami.
No more excuses. No waiting around for ideas or inspiration. Just pick up your club and start swinging!
November 29, 2013 at 12:05 pm
Jenn DesAutels
Thanks for sharing your story. Jack London does have a way of clubbing and dragging us back to reality.
November 29, 2013 at 12:06 pm
Leslie Colin Tribble
I think this post is perfectly timed for the end of the month. We’ve worked toward the goal and now is not the time to rest, thinking we’ve accomplished what we set out to do. Now is the time to go forward using our club. Thanks for the inspiration!
November 30, 2013 at 12:40 am
kamikinard
Thank you! When Tara chose inspiration for the theme of this year’s PiBoIdMo, I knew what I wanted to write about. I’ve been crossing my fingers since day one that someone wouldn’t refer to Jack London before I could post! Thank you all for your comments. 🙂
November 29, 2013 at 12:08 pm
Rosanne
Interesting where our writing takes us. Thanks for sharing.
November 29, 2013 at 12:13 pm
Flower T.
Got the quote and the club and I’m ready to go. Thanks for the ideas.
November 29, 2013 at 12:14 pm
tpierce
Love the Jack London quote! Thanks for shading tops on how to find inspiration right in front of us, Kami!
November 29, 2013 at 12:20 pm
Cindy Cornwall
I love to hear about the different ways writers get to their publication-destination….keep working….butt-in-chair and never stop looking around for inspiration. Thanks, now I’m off to look for my club!
November 29, 2013 at 12:20 pm
Suzy Leopold
I will continue to *stalk* inspiration and continue to work on the dream of becoming and author and illustrator when I grow up. Thank you for the inspiration. ~Suzy Leopold
November 29, 2013 at 12:22 pm
Doreen E. Lepore
Great quote and post – Thanks!
November 29, 2013 at 12:23 pm
Ariel TS
Oh the power of the five minute brainstorm! I agree, short snippets of time are the best place to start. I get so much done on my bus commute to work.
November 29, 2013 at 12:27 pm
Manju Howard (@ManjuBeth)
Thanks for your post. One of my PiBo ideas is turning into an easy reader.
November 29, 2013 at 12:29 pm
lindamartinandersen
Kami,
If I can’t find a club, I’ll use a big stick. Ha! Ha!
November 29, 2013 at 12:33 pm
Christine Cowan
Thank you for your insight! I think I’ve been waiting for inspiration too.
November 29, 2013 at 12:33 pm
robinghoward
Thank you for this. The hunt is on.
November 29, 2013 at 12:37 pm
Joanne Roberts
Thanks for showing us how our seeds can become stories, how no writing effort is ever wasted, and how our dreams can become realities.
November 29, 2013 at 12:37 pm
Therese Nagi
Kami thanks for sharing your post. It definitely motivated me to look for inspiration everywhere.
November 29, 2013 at 12:42 pm
Deb Dunn
Thanks for sharing! I am inspired every day as I teach…
November 29, 2013 at 12:43 pm
Ashley Bankhead
Thank you for this post. It is so true. And I love the quote.
November 29, 2013 at 1:07 pm
Jane R Cooper
Don’t have a club yet, but am hoping my metaphoric velvet whip will work….love your perspective and ideas! Great post!
November 30, 2013 at 12:42 am
kamikinard
I have to ask… what color is your metaphoric velvet whip? 😉
November 29, 2013 at 1:10 pm
MichelleLynn
Recently, writing has gone from a hobby to my full time job, though it is a work-for-free gig at the moment. It has made all the difference.
November 29, 2013 at 1:11 pm
thiskidreviewsbooks
What a great quote! 😀 I love the bluntness of it (no pun intended)! 😀
November 29, 2013 at 1:19 pm
Lynn A. Davidson
I really have to get my club busy! Maybe it will even grow into something that will make an impression somewhere of notice. 😉 Thanks for your determination that showed through as a fine example.
November 29, 2013 at 1:24 pm
Sandie Sing
I’m stalking and sniffing the air for my next inspiration. Thanks for the great share. Loved your quote too.
November 29, 2013 at 1:30 pm
Ashley Bohmer
I’ve got my club; let the chase begin! 🙂
November 29, 2013 at 1:31 pm
ldk
Loved this post! I especially love the quote!
November 29, 2013 at 1:34 pm
Buffy Silverman
Love this quote–getting out my club!
November 29, 2013 at 1:40 pm
Mandy Yates
Great post. Off to go clubbing!
November 29, 2013 at 1:46 pm
Genevieve Petrillo
GAH! It’s YOU! I read The Boy Project this summer, and absolutely LOVED it. I’m so happy you have another one in the pipeline. As far as inspiration, I couldn’t agree more. Get the butt in the chair and get to work. Chase it down.
November 29, 2013 at 1:47 pm
Dawn Young
Club and capture – love it! Thank for sharing
November 29, 2013 at 1:47 pm
Judith Snyder
You are right. I need to start using my club. Successful people are those who work hard on their passion.
November 29, 2013 at 1:47 pm
Sharon Wildey Calle
Thanks for a great post & quote!
November 29, 2013 at 1:49 pm
Kathy Cornell Berman
Thanks for your post. Your Scuba Tuba has inspired an idea. Good luck with your submissions.
November 29, 2013 at 1:52 pm
Scribblette
Good Stuff! Thanks for Sharing
November 29, 2013 at 1:53 pm
Jarm Del Boccio
Thanks, Kami. I’m counting down with club in hand!
November 29, 2013 at 2:01 pm
Mary Jo
If only I could extend my inspiration club to the writing of those captured ideas…. 🙂 I love the visual though of clubbing inspiration.
November 29, 2013 at 2:02 pm
Pia Garneau
Club in hand and ready to go inspiration-hunting! Thanks for your post!
November 29, 2013 at 2:04 pm
jheitman22
Thank you, Kami! Yes! We can “make” inspiration happen by simply paying attention. The other important thing you said here is: be open to writing for a variety of age groups in a variety of genres. Yes!
November 29, 2013 at 2:10 pm
LeslieG
I’ve joined the club! Thank you :0)
November 29, 2013 at 2:17 pm
Linda
Thanks Kami! You are right about going after your dreams with a club. Loved your book and the class you gave at NESCBWI last year.
November 30, 2013 at 12:47 am
kamikinard
Thank you, and everyone who mentioned they like my book or my poem! I so appreciate it. NESCBWI was such a blast. I hope to come back one year soon!
November 29, 2013 at 2:17 pm
Sherry Walz
Kami, thanks for sharing your perspective on inspiration. It’s always interesting to find out how other writers get their ideas.
November 29, 2013 at 2:18 pm
MSackman
Thank you so much for sharing. I find myself waiting for inspiration, waiting for time, and going in so many directions with my writing that I do not feel like I am going anywhere at all. I love the quote, but especially love the idea of using a “club” to help me get where I really want to go!
November 29, 2013 at 2:23 pm
Sherry Alexander
Thank you–I needed a club in the pants to write today!
November 29, 2013 at 2:23 pm
dee win
loved this post, thank you so much!
November 29, 2013 at 2:27 pm
Sandy Perlic
Love that quote, Kami! PiBoIdMo is teaching me just how possible it is to go stalking inspiration. Love it.
November 29, 2013 at 2:33 pm
Maria Gianferrari
Thanks for sharing your journey, Kami! Your post is very inspirational and moving. I really enjoyed your New England SCBWI workshop on humor this past spring.
Time to harness some ideas!
November 29, 2013 at 2:43 pm
lmconnors
I have picture book and young reader chapter book ideas-in some ways they are so different to write. Thanks for your post!
November 29, 2013 at 2:44 pm
Tatiana Escallon
Thanks for sharing, I like the story, very inspiring
November 29, 2013 at 2:49 pm
Jeanine Potter
Bravo! Brilliant! Thank you for sharing some very insightful and valuable info.
November 29, 2013 at 2:57 pm
Bridey Mendoza-Moore
Thank you for the encouragement and insight!
November 29, 2013 at 3:08 pm
hollygatrell
Great advice I am adding childrens magazines to my 5 yr plan. You inspired me thanks.
November 29, 2013 at 3:16 pm
Catherine Johnson
Very inspiring. Thanks, Kami!
November 29, 2013 at 3:17 pm
schriscoe
Thank you for sharing!
November 29, 2013 at 3:29 pm
Melanie Ellsworth
Kami – I absolutely agree with your point about finding inspiration anywhere and actively looking for it. It’s refreshing to hear that you were open to writing for a variety of genres, even it it wasn’t your original vision.
November 29, 2013 at 3:31 pm
The World Is My Cuttlefish
I like that we don’t always know, in this time where we are schooled that we must, where our strengths lie. Sometimes we can be surprised by what others find in us.
November 29, 2013 at 3:39 pm
dorothia
Love that quote. Thanks for the great post.
November 29, 2013 at 3:42 pm
Michelle @ Fitztopia
I’m a quote collector as well… Jack London’s is a great one! Thank you for sharing your genre journey. Sometimes I wonder if I am considering too many options, but some of my ideas spark content that is more suitable for older readers. Your post helped be gain a bit of perspective. 🙂
November 29, 2013 at 3:42 pm
Julie Grasso
He he, I have my club and I am not afraid to use it. Thanks for the inspiration.
November 29, 2013 at 3:42 pm
sudiptabq
Great post – I’m a big fan of clubbing in every form!
November 29, 2013 at 3:46 pm
Priya Gopal
So true, if you wait for inspiration you may wait forever
November 29, 2013 at 3:47 pm
theitaliancob
Thanks, off with my club.
November 29, 2013 at 3:49 pm
jdrury002
I absolutely agree, and those stolen moments throughout the day working to further a career in writing are some of the best moments of the day.
November 29, 2013 at 4:00 pm
Mary Flynn
Great advice, thanks Kami
November 29, 2013 at 4:01 pm
Dani Duck
I swear I’m getting more ideas at the end of the month than I have all month long. I can identify with the 5 minutes of time. That’s usually all I have with my toddler. Now off to swat my club at some ideas!
November 29, 2013 at 4:15 pm
ccbooks
So true!
November 29, 2013 at 4:17 pm
Luanne
Thanks for the great post…I think I have five minutes!
November 29, 2013 at 4:19 pm
bangersnmashdesign
What great advice!
November 29, 2013 at 4:21 pm
Penny
No more excuses. Thanks for the reminder to grab the 5 minutes, and then go after inspiration with a club!
November 29, 2013 at 4:31 pm
Sherryl
I totally believe this – and am hunting an idea every day this month. I’ve come up with more ideas than I thought possible!
November 29, 2013 at 4:35 pm
Yvonne Mes
Thanks Kami, got my pen, got my notebook, and now I have a club!
November 29, 2013 at 4:39 pm
julie rowan zoch
Thanks for making the quote so…portable! Congratulations on your success!
November 29, 2013 at 4:50 pm
Lauren Greenberg
Gone Clubbing
November 29, 2013 at 4:53 pm
Laura Zimmermann
Great post!
November 29, 2013 at 5:01 pm
Jill Siegel
Inspirational! Thanks!
November 29, 2013 at 5:05 pm
Linda Bozzo
Great advice. I also realized I had to sacrifice other things I enjoyed to do more of what I was passionate about. Thanks for the great post.
November 29, 2013 at 5:17 pm
Kjersten Hayes
Thanks!
November 29, 2013 at 5:24 pm
Mary Crockett
Ooh! Critique! Yay!
November 29, 2013 at 5:24 pm
Penny Parker Klostermann
I love The Scuba Tuba!!! I picking up my club 🙂
November 29, 2013 at 5:28 pm
Dana Atnip
Thank you, Kami, for the inspiration! I salute you with my new club! 🙂
November 29, 2013 at 5:31 pm
Joy Moore
Thanks for the club. It will come in handy!
November 29, 2013 at 5:35 pm
Michelle O'Hara Levin
great advice thank you! i’m searching for inspiration with a nearly two year old on my lap. wish me luck! (and capitol letters!)
November 29, 2013 at 5:37 pm
megmillerwrites
Too true! It’s so easy for me to say, I’m not inspired so I’ll just write when I am. Thanks for the club! 😀
November 29, 2013 at 5:41 pm
Noel Csermak
Dabble, dabble,
Whack,
WHAck,
WHACK!
Got to go catch that inspiration!
November 29, 2013 at 5:47 pm
Natalie McNee (@NatalieMcNee)
Inspiration comes from passion, a passion to pursue your dream 🙂 Congrats on your middle grade novels being published!
November 29, 2013 at 5:48 pm
Christine M. Irvin
I’ve got my club ready!!
November 29, 2013 at 5:58 pm
Nancy Churnin
Kami, thanks so much for the great post and congratulations on your success! This was my year to get out the club and what a difference it makes to put your all into your dream! The pleasure of the journey, clubbing for ideas and turning them into manuscripts has been the greatest difference in my inner life, giving me renewed purpose, daily joy and appreciation for the miracles that are daily with us. A little more than halfway through the year, I found my wonderful agent. While I have not yet sold a manuscript, I seem to be getting tantalizingly close. And the work and the revisions and the study goes on. I am very grateful to PiBoIdMo and the entire children’s book writing community. What an inspiring and supportive group I have found in my pursuit of publication.
November 29, 2013 at 6:00 pm
Dawnyelle
Great post! I am noticing a common thread of hard work in this year’s PiBoIdMo this year- I gotta get my serious britches on and get to work!
November 29, 2013 at 6:01 pm
Deb Dudley
Great post! I have a critique group, but would love fresh feedback. 🙂
November 29, 2013 at 6:02 pm
Sandi Lawson
Thank you for your post. It’s true. You can’t sit around and wait for inspiration. After today, I will have a club handy!
November 29, 2013 at 6:03 pm
Janie Reinart
Kami, thank you for post. Getting my track shoes on to jump in the chase. The Jack London quote is great!
November 29, 2013 at 6:19 pm
sketched out
Thanks for that inspiration. I’ve got my club poised for action now!
November 29, 2013 at 6:21 pm
Tracey Jackson
Thanks Kami – a reminder that I need to get rid of some of the other ‘hobbies’ and use the club! Great post.
November 29, 2013 at 6:30 pm
Kimberly Vogel
Nerdy girls rule!!! I would love this prize!!
November 29, 2013 at 6:50 pm
Evie Hjartarson
Kami, great post. I always loved Jack London’s books.
November 29, 2013 at 6:52 pm
Jewel Sample
Congratulations on your first book! I am glad your redirection worked out for you. Chasing the PB idea is exactly what one has to do, then write, write and write some more…Thank you for sharing.
November 29, 2013 at 7:04 pm
Alicia van Thiel
Thank you!
November 29, 2013 at 7:06 pm
Lana
Thanks for the inspiration!
November 29, 2013 at 7:06 pm
artsyandi
Great inspiration to pay attention as I sit here at the mall food court taking a shopping break. Inspiration is everywhere… You just have to be agressive in seeking it out!
November 29, 2013 at 7:15 pm
Lauri
Congratulations on the publication of your book! I just came across The Boy Project at the library last week. I love the cover! Thanks for the great advice.
November 29, 2013 at 7:19 pm
jacquesartandbooks
I put my club down recently… thanks for reminding me to pick it back up.
November 29, 2013 at 7:29 pm
ptnozell
Inspiration anywhere, even when one only has five minutes – great reminder to focus & find that inspiration & run with it!
November 29, 2013 at 7:33 pm
Sarah Kilfoil
I am officially getting rid of all of my excuses for not writing! Instead, I’m going after my dream!
November 29, 2013 at 7:40 pm
Lauri Meyers
Kami, great post. I loved the publications you shared- you write great pictures! That’s why that picture book of yours is sure to come.
November 29, 2013 at 7:43 pm
Jen Carroll
Thanks for the reminder that limited time isn’t an excuse for limited inspiration.
November 29, 2013 at 7:53 pm
tinamcho
I like how you were proactive in pursuing inspiration and ideas! Great post!
November 29, 2013 at 7:55 pm
mona861
Thanks, Kami. I’m a dreamer…really should swing a club!
November 29, 2013 at 7:55 pm
Angela Turner
Another great post. This month has been awesome and I really appreciate hearing from experienced writers. This post especially helped me see possibilities around every corner. Thank you!
November 29, 2013 at 7:58 pm
Theanna
Great post! You are correct we can’t just wait for inspiration! Thank you for sharing your story! All the best to you!
November 29, 2013 at 7:58 pm
Hana
I fully intend to stalk that inspiration and grab it in my arms, sneak attack–style, like the wily woman I am. 😉
It saddens me that November is drawing to a close. I’ve so enjoyed all the PiBoIdMo posts.
November 29, 2013 at 8:00 pm
Janet Smart
Great post. I need to get me a club and start stalking.
November 29, 2013 at 8:15 pm
Helen Ross
A great quote. Thanks Kami for an inspiring post. Got a lot out of it.
November 29, 2013 at 8:16 pm
saputnam
One of my favorite Jack London quotes! Great post, Kami! Don’t have a club, but figure my crutches will do in a pinch
November 29, 2013 at 8:22 pm
Charlotte Gunnufson
inspirational post on inspiration. Sometimes it lurks in unlikely places.
November 29, 2013 at 8:26 pm
Perfecting Motherhood
Kami is right, inspiration is everywhere but you have to look around. I’ll be adding this quote to my list of favorite!
November 29, 2013 at 8:33 pm
renajtraxel
Great post. And so true.
November 29, 2013 at 8:34 pm
Kathy Doherty
I agree. Writers have to be on the alert. Thanks for the great post.
November 29, 2013 at 8:42 pm
Janet Halfmann
Great quote. I’ll try more and more never to forget to “carry” my club!
November 29, 2013 at 8:50 pm
Denise Bowman
Thanks for the reminder that great things can happen with 5 minutes and a club!
November 29, 2013 at 9:06 pm
Amy Cohas
Yup, I can manage five minutes at a time. Thank you for taking away my guilt at not being able to set aside large blocks of time for inspiration.
November 29, 2013 at 9:09 pm
Cindy Schumerth
Good advice…every 5 min counts!
November 29, 2013 at 9:11 pm
Keri Collins Lewis
Thanks for giving us a peek at your process! Now to take 5 minutes and stalk inspiration.
November 29, 2013 at 9:14 pm
Cindy Schumerth
Great post…every 5 min counts
November 29, 2013 at 9:24 pm
Kerry Mazengia
This post is exactly what I have found with PiBoIdMo. This is my second year participating….and it is the BEST way to chase after inspiration instead of waiting for it to find you. Thanks for the encouragement to keep chasing the dream!
November 29, 2013 at 9:24 pm
Debra Shumaker
Thanks for this post. Full of nuggets of information!
November 29, 2013 at 9:34 pm
Lynn Anne Carol
I now belong to the Club Club. What great advise to catch those 5 minutes. We all have to, at least, have that.
Thanks and congrats of you book.
Lynn
November 29, 2013 at 9:38 pm
Patricia Holloway
You’re advice is right on target. Thank you for the tough love.
November 29, 2013 at 9:41 pm
Debbie Lubbert
Loved your post! Thanks for the great advice.
November 29, 2013 at 9:45 pm
Rosi Hollinbeck
Thanks for the kick in the pants. I needed that.
November 29, 2013 at 9:49 pm
Leslee Anne Hewson
Thanks for the inspiration. I also took some notes from nerdychicks. I hadn’t read Nancy Drew but couldn’t get enough of Enid Blyton and the Famous Five. I also noted the books listed by the teachers and look forward to reading them.
November 29, 2013 at 9:50 pm
Jeanette
So true that we can’t wait for inspiration to find us! Thank you!
November 29, 2013 at 10:08 pm
Debra
Couldn’t agree more. Sometimes I find inspiration – or inspiration finds me – not when I’m trying to think of something to write, but when I just put pen to paper and just start writing.
November 29, 2013 at 10:09 pm
laura516
Ideas, here I come!
November 29, 2013 at 10:09 pm
Laurie L. Young
I love the Jack London quote, and especially the fact that it changed your perspective. It reminds me of another quote that has also helped me a lot:
“I write only when inspiration strikes. Fortunately it strikes every morning at nine o’clock sharp.” ― W. Somerset Maugham
I think, for me, consistency is the thing I struggle with most, and the thing I need the most. Thank you so much for sharing your process!
November 30, 2013 at 12:52 am
kamikinard
That’s a great quote too, written in the same spirit!
November 29, 2013 at 10:12 pm
Jennifer Neher
Thank you for the encouragement to chase inspiration and to look for it at all times- not just when I have set aside a big block of time to work… I enjoyed your post!
November 29, 2013 at 10:36 pm
kirsticall
This is really important advice, Kami.
November 29, 2013 at 10:37 pm
Jenifer McNamara
As I’ve heard people say or read about one hundred times inspiration and perspiration does get your somewhere. Thanks for the post a great reminder.
November 29, 2013 at 10:54 pm
S.H. Sherlock
Congratulations on your success! I’ve stumbled across links to your blog several times so it’s great to make the connection to a face (and time to become a blog follower). Plus, I just read a bunch about gopher tortoises due to your story snippet above!
November 29, 2013 at 11:01 pm
Cindy
Thanks, for the inspiration, Kami. I think that people, too often, try to force it… just doesn’t work. Inspiration is organic. You just have to be open to it, right?
November 29, 2013 at 11:15 pm
lisakwillard
Thanks for your advice and stories! On lucky days when I’m stalking ideas it seems they have been stalking me. Ah ha!
November 29, 2013 at 11:24 pm
childrensbooksonadime
I have my club. Hope I win!
November 29, 2013 at 11:30 pm
Kim Mounsey
Great advice. Thanks Kami. I will shoulder my club and begin to stalk those ideas…
November 29, 2013 at 11:38 pm
Suzanne kaufman
Totally agree!!!
November 29, 2013 at 11:43 pm
kpbock
I’ve got my club and I’m ready to hit those ideas on the head!
November 29, 2013 at 11:49 pm
Michele
A great post full of good advice and inspiration! In looking at my list of ideas for the month, I can see a few of them may also make a good chapter book or middle grade book.
November 29, 2013 at 11:52 pm
Teresa Daffern
I will chase that inspiration! Thanks for sharing your journey.
November 30, 2013 at 12:05 am
Kelly Parker
Such great advice, thank you for sharing!
November 30, 2013 at 12:30 am
RaChelle Lisiecki
Thank you, Kami, and congratulations on your MG novel. I also enjoyed the blog by Sudipta. You seem like a great team. Okay, well, inspiration ran away earlier today so I better find my club and hunt it down. Ooooooh, my PIBoIdMo idea #46. Cheers!
November 30, 2013 at 12:32 am
Stella Jane Stauffer
Kami, thank you for this post. Your Jack London quote and your words of experience say a lot about perseverance.
November 30, 2013 at 12:32 am
Angie Karcher
Feeling inspired right now…must go write!
November 30, 2013 at 1:00 am
writersideup
Kami, what a pleasant surprise seeing you here! 😀 You’re an excellent AND inspirational teacher, and most definitely a talented writer (you know I loved THE BOY PROJECT and recommend it whenever I help a kid at Barnes lol). In fact, I don’t know if you saw, on John Schumacher’s WATCH.READ.CONNECT. blog that it was on Susie Highley
s “hold shelf” 😀
Scroll down—2nd from the bottom:
http://mrschureads.blogspot.com/2013/11/november-holdshelf-gallery.html
😀
November 30, 2013 at 1:15 am
Emily Lim-Leh
Excuse me as I leave aside my blank page to stalk, club and clobber Inspiration!
November 30, 2013 at 1:34 am
belindambrock
Thanks for the tough love and inspiration, Kami.
November 30, 2013 at 2:09 am
Mindy Alyse Weiss
Thanks for the great post, Kami. I also started with picture books, and was surprised when I started writing novels as well. Now, I can’t imagine not writing both PB and MG. You’re right–you never know where inspiration will lead you!
November 30, 2013 at 3:09 am
Emi Howe
Note to self: carry notebook at all times! Thanks Kami Xx
November 30, 2013 at 5:09 am
Jodie Parachini
Wonderful post, thanks. I’m getting my club out now…
November 30, 2013 at 6:17 am
Kimberly
I once thought I’d only writer picture books too but you never know where inspiration will be found!
November 30, 2013 at 7:06 am
patientdreamer
I started off thinking I would be in novels, I still think that is where my best work is. But I also love PB writing. True about where ideas will just pop up.
Great advice, thank you.
Diane Tulloch.
November 30, 2013 at 7:10 am
Shannon Anderson
Your post is one of my favorites this month! I will be chasing my inspiration a bit more aggressively from now on! No excuses. Feeling inspired to get inspired now! 🙂
November 30, 2013 at 7:54 am
kamikinard
Awwww. Thank you! And thanks to everyone for their comments. Here’s to successful pursuit of inspiration! And thanks for the link, writerssideup (Donna), I hadn’t seen that!
November 30, 2013 at 7:53 am
agsawan
Love this. Inspiration isn’t coming to those who wait, have to go out there and hunt it down. Thanks.
November 30, 2013 at 8:09 am
Betsy Devany
Thanks for the poster, for your advice and inspiration!
November 30, 2013 at 8:09 am
Joanne Sher
So true! Love – and NEED! this reminder! Write until the inspiration comes if necessary, because, more often than not, it will.
November 30, 2013 at 8:16 am
Cindy Johnson
Thanks for the push, Kami. Those manuscripts aren’t going to write themselves!
November 30, 2013 at 8:34 am
rebeccaehirsch
Terrific post. Thanks, Kami!
November 30, 2013 at 8:36 am
tanyakonerman
Wow, inspiration from my middle school diary…am I brave enough?!
November 30, 2013 at 8:39 am
Gail Kamer
Thanks. I’ve set some goals for 2014.
November 30, 2013 at 8:44 am
dzipeto
Kami,
I especially love the gopher turtle image, going after its goal with a club (or claw) and also helping some others along the way!!
Thank you for sharing.
Best
Diana Zipeto
November 30, 2013 at 9:07 am
Carolyn Rohrbaugh
Each of us has a path to follow and it doesn’t always take us where we intended. Thank you for the inspiration.
November 30, 2013 at 9:35 am
angelapenadahle
I love that Jack London quote. It really is true.
November 30, 2013 at 9:37 am
Maya
Great advice re: capturing inspiration, even when you only have 5 minutes. I find most of my free time is in 5 min stretches, and I am working. On making the most of them!
November 30, 2013 at 9:39 am
Brenda Harris
Amazingly talented and wonderful post to read. Now, I wish some of your stories, Kami, had been made it to books. Would have loved to have read them. The Scuba Tuba poem and the burrow borrowers sound cool. I’m interested in taking a look at The Boy Project. Sounds like a great read for my nieces. 🙂
November 30, 2013 at 9:46 am
Amanda Smith
Thanks for the reminder that writing is a job, not a hobby ~ even though it is as fun as a hobby!
November 30, 2013 at 10:03 am
Andrea
Thank you for this inspiring post! When I get discouraged, I need to remember that I’m the driving force that will make my dreams come true.
November 30, 2013 at 10:08 am
Laura Lowman Murray
Congratulations Kami!! I love the club visual! My daughter recently found an old stick that resembled a wand. So she stripped it, sanded it, added some wood burning elements and jewels, and then gave it to me. She said it could remind me of the magic in stories. (Can you also tell that she just finished reading Harry Potter? :). But it now has a prominent place in my office. I think maybe I will ask her to find me a club-like stick to place next to the wand as well, as a reminder that sometimes you have to go after those stories with a club. 🙂 Awesome post! Thanks!
November 30, 2013 at 10:14 am
Aimee
It’s always encouraging to hear different writer’s views! Thanks for sharing your inspiration tips.
November 30, 2013 at 10:18 am
Kelly Vavala
I’m going to grab my club and go after my Inspiration…the search for each tiny gem! Wonderful quote and thank you for sharing!
November 30, 2013 at 10:27 am
shiela fuller
I hadn’t moved forward on MY writing because I hadn’t believe I could. I think being a writer has been in me since I was very young, but just never realized that it was something I could do. This past year has made me realize , I can. Thank you for the inspiration today. it comes in many forms and from unlikely places.
November 30, 2013 at 10:30 am
naturewalkwithgod
Published picture book or not, you gave us words of wisdom and shared your creativity. Thank you! –Kim
November 30, 2013 at 10:32 am
Marcy P.
Love it! I need a picture of a club… to hang up next to the quote. Thanks for sharing!
November 30, 2013 at 10:35 am
City Sights for Kids
Your encouragement to chase inspiration and not wait for it to simply strike resonated with my PiBoIdMo experience. On those days that I made the time to brainstorm and write regardless of whether inspiration was waiting, I often came up with 4-5 ideas. Thank you! – Amanda Sincavage
November 30, 2013 at 10:36 am
alwaysbedancing
I work either kids and find them to be a never ending resource of inspiration!
November 30, 2013 at 10:37 am
mellin4333
Thanks, Kami! We should all do a craft together and each make ourselves an Inspiration Club. AND we could turn it into a club!
November 30, 2013 at 10:43 am
LeeAnn Jensen
This is a wonderful article! Thank you for your insight!
November 30, 2013 at 11:13 am
cantsing1
I’m a stalker. And I guess I can keep my knitting, too!
Thanks!
November 30, 2013 at 11:23 am
RadSheri
Thanks for the inspirAtion as I travel home and look for ideas all around I a writing on napkins, maps, and any paper till I can put it in my notebook,
Thanks again.
November 30, 2013 at 11:25 am
ecrowl
Your journey of unexpected twists and turns, continued tenacity, and seizing five minute snatches is inspiring. Thanks for sharing and congrats on the upcoming release of your book!
November 30, 2013 at 11:27 am
Pam Brunskill (@PamBrunskill)
Fabulous post, Kami! It’s so true–I agree with you that if we just wait for inspiration to come, we’ll end up wandering. But if we focus, eventually we’ll get somewhere.
November 30, 2013 at 11:51 am
lindakcampos
Great post! Good reminder to always be on the lookout as inspiration has to be pursued.
November 30, 2013 at 12:02 pm
Fashionista Philly
Thanks so much Kami for your post and I think it’s awesome Tara asked you to share your wisdom and experiences, because so many of us have wisdom and advice to share through the journey of still trying to sell our books and I wish the best of success 🙂
November 30, 2013 at 12:16 pm
Margaret Greanias
Wonderful advice! Thank you! I love Jack London’s quote.
November 30, 2013 at 12:27 pm
Melanie Lucero
Love this post! And Jack London’s quote about the club–so true!!
November 30, 2013 at 12:35 pm
writeknit
Thank you, you and Jack London give solid advice! 🙂
November 30, 2013 at 12:40 pm
Ann Birnie
Kami – Thanks for sharing the quote by Jack London. I am going to hit the Black Friday sales for a club bigger than the one I’ve been using.
November 30, 2013 at 12:48 pm
nessa dee
I have my club in hand!
November 30, 2013 at 12:58 pm
amievc
Thank you so much for your reminder to go after our ideas (and our dreams). Hearing about your path in the book world was inspirational. Thank you!
November 30, 2013 at 1:00 pm
Juliana Lee
Thank you so much for your post. I copied your quote for further inspiration/motivation!
November 30, 2013 at 1:16 pm
amomnextdoor
I, too, have always been a writer and always wanted to write. But only recently have I conceived the ambition to publish my writing. When you described yourself going to the library on your lunch break, I got chills. Thank you for reminding me of the first place I learned books and words and story–the library–and reminding me of my call to visit that quiet place in every spare moment.
November 30, 2013 at 1:21 pm
Erin Peed
Thank you so much for your post!
November 30, 2013 at 1:22 pm
Janny J. Johnson
I discovered your mention of finding inspiration in any five minute space of time, during this, my first PiBoIdMo. Wow, what a lightbulb moment! Hurrah!
November 30, 2013 at 1:27 pm
wendymyersart
Really great post, Joni. I find this approach works for me as well. I ride horses. It’s very time consuming. But just when I feel like maybe I should only sit and write and draw and give up everything else, I’ll come up with a great idea while on a ride. It works because I am always, forever thinking about ideas and looking for inspiration. Everywhere. But maybe a club would push me closer to selling a book! 🙂
November 30, 2013 at 1:29 pm
wendymyersart
omg, I wrote Joni, I’m so sorry. I know it’s Kami. Please forgive me. I’ve been catching up on posts and have words and names floating around my brain. Duh.
November 30, 2013 at 4:35 pm
kamikinard
Hahaha! I make that kind of mistake all of the time! No worries. 😀
November 30, 2013 at 1:36 pm
Micki Ginsberg
Thanks, Kami, for your energizing ideas. Loved that Jack London quote!
November 30, 2013 at 1:42 pm
Selena
Love the quote! And sometimes we need to be the ones banged over the head with a club many, many times before it sinks in. How many of us have heard to write during any stolen moments we have? I’ve always agreed with this, but have not always put it into practice. Your line about writing during your lunch break was truly a revelation. I just started a full-time job and have been lamenting how I would never have time to write. And there it was! Your idea. So simple. And this time it stuck. Thank you!
November 30, 2013 at 1:56 pm
Amy Smith
Great quote, great post. Thank you!
November 30, 2013 at 2:56 pm
Jennifer Voigt Kaplan
Thanks for the post! Great advice.
November 30, 2013 at 2:56 pm
Alisha Gabriel
Congratulations on your publishing success! I love the reminder that just 5 minutes is enough to jot down a great idea. Thanks!
November 30, 2013 at 3:11 pm
Sharon K Mayhew
What a great quote! I hadn’t thought about other activities as being distractions to your writing, but you are right. If you want to do something well, you have to put your whole self into it. 🙂
November 30, 2013 at 3:24 pm
miki
Great poem and inspiring post. Thank you!
November 30, 2013 at 3:30 pm
Quinn Cole
After you pointed it out, I realized that most writers and illustrators ooze creativity and without persistence and single-mindedness it is easy to wander off the trail into another creative outlet. I’m often guilty of it. Your post comes at the perfect time to gather up a month of creative picture book ideas and FOCUS. Thank you!
November 30, 2013 at 4:10 pm
Julene Kinser
Love the Jack London quote. Also enjoyed the wordplay in your titles– planning on looking up some of them at the library on Monday.
November 30, 2013 at 4:42 pm
Debbie Faith Mickelson
Thanks Kami. I have my club in hand and am attacking. “Waiting” for inspiration is a big problem for me. With PiBoIdMo and the post, I will do things different. I’ll attack first and see how the inspiration flows. Thanks.
November 30, 2013 at 4:46 pm
Jennifer Ali
Interesting that your dream of a picture book became a published novel. Congratulations!
November 30, 2013 at 4:54 pm
carolmunrojww
Thanks for sharing your experience, Kami. I think other creative endeavors are common for writers to have. It’s the balance that’s important. Some are hobbies or ways to get the creativity and imagination cooking, but if a person is serious about writing, be serious. Get focused and stay focused. Use those hobbies to benefit the writing.
November 30, 2013 at 5:55 pm
Pamela M. Tuck
This post goes along with what I’ve been battling with all month. It’s been such a challenge to find writing inspiration while raising children, nursing sick children, attending teacher’s conferences, etc. But I’ve had my “club” out and have pounded out 31 picture book ideas YAY!!!!!!
November 30, 2013 at 6:11 pm
intheirownwrite
Excellent advice. Thanks for sharing and congratulations on your book.
November 30, 2013 at 7:40 pm
Mary A Livingston
Thank you!
November 30, 2013 at 8:14 pm
Kathryn Ault Noble
Thanks, Kami! I wish I had known about the club years ago. But I now know all about metal smithing, too! And chicken breeding, and organic gardening, seed propagation, every art style and materials known to man. . . The side tracks have been numerous, but the club is firmly in hand now. And sixty is the new forty!
December 2, 2013 at 11:25 am
kamikinard
You’ve got it! And I’m sure the skills you’ve amassed will translate into your words now that this is your focus….
November 30, 2013 at 8:20 pm
Linda E.H.
Thanks for sharing your experience, and congrats on getting your book published.
November 30, 2013 at 8:36 pm
Carrie Finison
So true, Kami. It’s easy to moon around and hope that inspiration will strike, but I think you’re right that you have to go after it – and also accept it in whatever form it takes (whether or not it was what you expected).
November 30, 2013 at 8:59 pm
Michelle Church
Off to find my club. Thanks, Kami!
November 30, 2013 at 9:00 pm
June Smalls
Glad to see another ‘lunch break’ writer succeed. I will take my club everywhere. I wonder if it will fix my hubby too…
November 30, 2013 at 9:09 pm
cheryllovestoread
Thanks so much for the wonderful post!!
November 30, 2013 at 9:20 pm
Lois Sepahban
Thank you, Kami, for a great post! I love the Jack London quote!
November 30, 2013 at 9:27 pm
Amelia Shearer
I love the quote, and need that to be hit over my head a few times to get me focused! It’s encouraging to read that the distractions CAN take a backseat, and this whole month has challenged me to figure out the logistics of making it happen. Thank you also for your insights about following your inspiration into other genres – it’s intimidating sometimes to follow an idea down the path of middle grade or YA, but obviously it can be worth it!
November 30, 2013 at 9:42 pm
Kristine Gunnell
Love the Jack London quote. Thanks for sharing your personal experience with us. Inspiring! I am almost there.
November 30, 2013 at 9:46 pm
The Ink Pond
The quote, the quote, I love the quote! Inspiring post. Thank you for sharing.
~Tia Svardahl
November 30, 2013 at 9:47 pm
ammwrite
I’m glad to see my thoughts reflected in your words. I’m just starting on my writing journey, and I’m hoping my writing for kids’ magazines will be a good place to find my “writer’s legs.” Thanks, Ann Magee
November 30, 2013 at 10:19 pm
Tracey M. Cox
Kami,
THANK YOU! I totally agree. I have gotten slack lately about immersing and pursuing my writing life. I will be out and about now for sure.
November 30, 2013 at 10:24 pm
erin
Between a 9-5 job, family, etc. wandering off the trail is definitely one of the things holding me back. Thank you so much for this post!
November 30, 2013 at 10:33 pm
Carrie Brown
Okay, I think I can try to squeeze in five minutes of free time somewhere! You are right…inspiration is everywhere! Sometimes in the funniest of places!
November 30, 2013 at 10:53 pm
Donna L Martin
Hi Kami!
I am quite familiar with the nerdychicksrule website and have found this post just as motivational as the others I find there. Some days five minutes is quite literally all I have but I ALWAYS write each day…even if it IS for only five minutes…;~)
Great post!
Take care,
Donna L Martin
November 30, 2013 at 11:09 pm
Lauren Kerstein
I love finding inspiration in the mundane moments that aren’t as mundane as we think. I find that when I stop and really stay present in the moment, I am often struck with some truly inspirational ideas. Thank you for validating and highlighting this important point.
November 30, 2013 at 11:29 pm
Crystal McIntyre
Love the club! I never thought to look up words with a specific ending to find a story. Man those ideas just hide everywhere! Thanks again!
November 30, 2013 at 11:30 pm
vijikc
Thank for your post! I will use my club!
November 30, 2013 at 11:45 pm
heather sisson
Love this post! Thanks for sharing 🙂
November 30, 2013 at 11:48 pm
Lisa Lee
Good idea to schedule regular library time to chase ideas. Thanks!
November 30, 2013 at 11:52 pm
Lacey Gunter
Reading your post gave me a great idea. Thanks for sharing.
December 2, 2013 at 11:23 am
kamikinard
Woot! When your idea comes to fruition, be sure to let us know! Good luck!
December 1, 2013 at 12:17 am
Rachel Smoka-Richardson
Thank you for sharing your story!
December 1, 2013 at 12:32 am
Karen Sipps
Wonderful post, thank you! (Now I’m off to find five minutes!)
December 1, 2013 at 1:11 am
Colleen Jensen
Thanks Kami! Great thoughts.
December 1, 2013 at 2:45 am
Ann Martin
It’s certainly true that inspiration doesn’t just come and find you. But it can be found in some surprising places 🙂 Thanks for the very enlightening post!
December 1, 2013 at 3:59 am
Sheryl Murray
Thank you for an inspiring post, Kami. Between children and work, I have been feeling overwhelmed and craving creative time. I am realizing how vital it is to my mental well being to seize every spare moment I have – even if it’s only 5 minutes – to get my creative fix. Thanks for sharing!
December 1, 2013 at 6:59 am
helen dening
Thanks, Kami. While reading your post my thoughts kept jumping to “Going on a Bear Hunt”. I’m ready to go on my hunt for inspirations.
December 1, 2013 at 8:27 am
Susanne Whitehouse
I’ve been putting my children’s poem writing aside lately to focus on my picture books, but your post has inspired me to do both! Thank you!
December 1, 2013 at 11:00 am
blanchebaxter
Thanks for this! I’m off to go stalk my inspiration. 🙂
December 1, 2013 at 11:15 am
Charlotte Cheng
I guess I need to keep my club with me at all times. . .not just lying in a corner collecting dust 🙂 thanks for the advice!
December 1, 2013 at 11:41 am
Carol Breedlove
Thank you for sharing your experience. Great post!
December 1, 2013 at 11:43 am
bucherwurm65
Thank you for sharing. I will be open to wherever my writing journey take me and my club.
December 1, 2013 at 12:10 pm
Debbie Austin
Maybe I can use all the paints/fabric/yarn/stamps/beads/ribbon/glue from my craft supplies to add some bling to my club before I give that all away! Thanks for some much needed clarity.
December 2, 2013 at 11:22 am
kamikinard
I still have quite a large collection of craft supplies, Debbie! But I don’t spend time trying to hone my skills to get better at crafting. It’s just a stress reliever, and something fun to do with children, if that makes sense. I say, you have to keep some hobbies, but pick one thing to focus on so that you can become outstanding in that area!
December 1, 2013 at 12:13 pm
Karen Mae Zoccoli
Thanks for sharing your story and how you find your inspiration–by chasing it down! It reminds me this is a very active process 🙂
December 1, 2013 at 1:31 pm
keepingthemeinmommy
I’m taking up my club too!
December 1, 2013 at 2:08 pm
Shirley
Thanks for your inspiring post.
December 1, 2013 at 2:16 pm
Corey Schwartz
Another awesome, inspiring post. Perhaps Tara should consider publishing a collection from the last five years? 🙂
December 5, 2013 at 8:20 am
kamikinard
Great idea! (And you gave some great advice in your post, especially about seeing what’s out there. It is hard to set aside a great idea because it has been done, but ideas are limitless, so we need to keep trucking!)
December 1, 2013 at 3:12 pm
sjctenney
My club is ready! I’m coming after you, inspiration! Thanks!
December 1, 2013 at 4:33 pm
naomimgruer
Thanks for the quote! I will remember to go after my inspiration with a club or whatever blunt instrument I have handy (does a rolling pin count?)!
December 1, 2013 at 5:50 pm
Michelle Heidenrich Barnes
I should take out my club more often… if only it weren’t so heavy! Thanks for the kick in the pants.
December 1, 2013 at 5:59 pm
Holly Bliss
Thanks for the advice! 🙂
December 1, 2013 at 6:09 pm
SevenAcreSky
Thanks Kami for reminding us that our inspiration shouldn’t be limited…after we’ve pursued it with a club! Great advice!
December 1, 2013 at 9:35 pm
Alexa Kaufhold
It was a nice reminder to see your magazine pieces. Not every idea needs to be a book.
December 1, 2013 at 9:47 pm
writeforapples
Thank you for the inspiration. I love this perspective!
December 1, 2013 at 10:32 pm
DianeKHower
Thanks! I’ve got my club!
December 2, 2013 at 12:08 am
Iris Diamond
Kami, thank you so much for the inspiration, especially for the reminder that every five minutes can and should be used 🙂
December 2, 2013 at 7:44 am
happyidiots
Thank you Kami. Another great book with a host of great inspirational quotes worth checking out is, “The Artist’s Way”. It changed my creative approach. I now carry my own arsenal of tools when hunting inspiration.
December 2, 2013 at 10:12 am
Franziska Green (@franziskagreen)
Those hobbies sound inspiring to me! Metalwork? Banjo? I feel a PB idea coming on…
December 2, 2013 at 11:36 am
Marcia Berneger
Thanks for the reminder that inspiration is all around us if we allow ourselves to be open to it.
December 2, 2013 at 11:51 am
Daniela Weil (@Daniela_Weil)
thank you Kami! I actually wrote down 2 ideas while reading your post! something about those mundane moments of watching an inchworm while walking a stroller… thanks!
December 5, 2013 at 8:17 am
kamikinard
Yay! You’ll have to let me know when your ideas turn into books. 😉 Good luck!
December 2, 2013 at 2:58 pm
Kirsten Carlson (@kirstencarlson)
Very revealing post….about my own ‘waiting for inspiration’ challenges. I’m looking for that club now ; )
December 2, 2013 at 8:16 pm
Lisa
Thanks for sharing, Kami. Much appreciated!
December 3, 2013 at 12:46 am
Laurie J. Edwards
Hey, Kami, nice to see you here. Will try to find the largest club I can.
December 3, 2013 at 11:58 am
Shirley Ng-Benitez
Such great advice. Thank you so much!
December 3, 2013 at 12:18 pm
Lindsay Bonilla
I love the Jack London quote! Thanks for sharing!
December 3, 2013 at 6:06 pm
Sue Rankin
“Going Clubbing” just took on a whole new meaning!
December 3, 2013 at 11:04 pm
Heather Hatch
What a generous gift of time and focus you offer. tha no you for your post!
December 4, 2013 at 11:27 am
gail maki wilson
Kami, what an inspiring point of view! That’s how I sum up this month at PiPoldMo…chasing inspiration. Thanks for the quote.
(Seems like my post didn’t show up from yesterday, hope I don’t end up with a double post.)
December 5, 2013 at 8:15 am
kamikinard
I didn’t see it yesterday. Thanks for trying again!
December 5, 2013 at 12:35 am
Caroline
Yes! I’ve read that Jack London quote before. I liken it to exercise….just working out when I “feel like it” doesn’t produce the same results as regularly getting out there and doing the work!
(And, hah, Sue’s comment a few above mine here made me laugh!)
December 5, 2013 at 8:14 am
kamikinard
Thank you again everyone for taking the time to comment! It was inspiring for me to be able to post. What a great community Tara started here!
December 6, 2013 at 9:49 am
Julie Falatko
Catching up on PiBo posts a little after the fact here, but just had to chime in and say that that gopher tortoise story is one that my kids have been obsessed with FOR YEARS. There are a few stories from Ladybug that have really stuck with us, and that’s definitely one of them. So cool that it was you!
December 6, 2013 at 9:47 pm
kamikinard
That is wonderful to hear! Thanks for sharing. I loved the way the art turned out too. I gathered so much info about gopher tortoises to write that story, that I pitched a non-fiction article to Ladybug after they purchased the story and they bought that too. It was the following three pages. I was beyond excited two have two pieces in the same issue. 🙂
December 6, 2013 at 10:00 pm
phinnum
Wow, awesome! Great post – very inspiring. I think I need to dust off the old club myself and go hunting for a Wild Inspiration.
December 3, 2015 at 8:33 am
Mary Jo Tannehill
With club in hand I am ready to begin. Thank you so much for your insight.