I am the founder of Picture Book Month and it starts tomorrow, November 1. The website, PictureBookMonth.com, features essays from thought leaders in the children’s literature community. Each day in November, a new essay is posted. This year’s Picture Book Month Champions are: Chris Barton, Aaron Becker, Kelly Bingham , Sophie Blackall, Arree Chung, Anna Dewdney, Johnette Downing, Ame Dyckman, Jill Esbaum, Carolyn Flores, Lupe Ruiz-Flores, Robin Preiss Glasser, Deborah Heiligman, Marla Frazee, Stefan Jolet, Kathleen Krull, Rene Colato Lainez, Loreen Leedy, Betsy Lewin, Ted Lewin, Brian Lies, Kelly J. Light, Debbie Ridpath Ohi, Alexis O’Neill, Sandra Markle, Ann Whitford Paul, Aaron Reynolds, Judy Schachner, Linda Joy Singleton, and David Schwartz. Please join the celebration!
As you prepare for PiBoIdMo, think about the titles of your picture books. In a recent interview for California Kids! magazine, Patricia Newman asked me, “How do you come up with titles for your books?” This started me thinking in depth about picture book titles. What’s in a title? How important is a title to a book? Can a book be centered around its title?
As it turns out, titles are vital to a book’s success. Author Scott Westerfield says, “Titles name a book, and names are important. A good name can make or break you.”
Brandi Reissenweber of Gotham Writers “Ask the Writer” column says, “A title is a story’s first impression. People make a first impression with appearance, wardrobe, and body language. Stories do it with a title.”
Eric Ode says, “Dan, the Taxi Man began as nothing more than a title. And one of the books I have coming out next year began as a title.”
PiBoIdMo founder and picture book author Tara Lazar says, “Most of my books begin as titles. It’s just the way my mind works. I want a BAM! concept, something that really hits you, and I find that people get HIT best with a succinct, powerful title.”
Corey Rosen Schwartz says, “I have written several books around titles! Like Tara [Lazar], most of my books begin that way. Goldi Rocks and the Three Bears, for example, was just a title on my PiBoIdMo 2009 list.”
Character-Based Titles
Many picture books have character-driven titles. The character of the book IS the title. Do you have a book character that is so compelling that the character’s name should be the book’s title? Here are some examples:
- Olivia by Ian Falconer
- Splat the Cat by Rob Scotton
- Flat Stanley by Jeff Brown
- Amelia Bedelia by Peggy Parish
- Biscuit by Alyssa Satin Capucilli
- Fancy Nancy by Jane O’Connor
Clever, Punny Titles
I am a big fan of clever, punny titles. In fact, several of my books have punny titles. Here are some examples that are just too clever for words… almost.
- Crankenstein by Samantha Berger
- The Monstore by Tara Lazar
- Little Red Hot by Eric Kimmel
- Pinkalicious by Victoria Kann
- Epossumondas by Colleen Salley
Verbose Titles
I am generally a fan of the “less is more” title for a book but sometimes, a garrulous title is EXACTLY what the book calls for. Can you imagine these books with a short title?
- Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day by Judith Viorst
- Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus by Mo Willems
- How Do Dinosaurs Say I Love You? by Jane Yolen
- There Was an Old Lady Who Swallowed a Fly by Simms Taback (a folktale retelling)
- The Fantastic Flying Books of Morris Lessmore by William Joyce
Plot-Based Titles
Some titles beckon you to open the book. These titles are based around the book’s plot. Yes, as short as a picture book is, it can still have a plot. In fact, these picture book plots were so inspiring that they were turned into Hollywood blockbuster movies!
- Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs by Judi Barrett
- A Night at the Museum by Milan Trenc
- The Story of Ferdinand by Munro Leaf
- We’re Back! A Dinosaur’s Story by Hudson Talbott
- Where the Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak
Single-Word Titles
A picture book title can also be short and succinct, even one-word. These acclaimed picture books prove that a word is worth a thousand pictures.
- Green by Laura Vaccaro Seeger
- Blackout by John Rocco
- Ninja! by Arree Chung
- Carnivores by Aaron Reynolds
- Hug by Jez Alborough
Aaron Zenz says, “Hiccupotamus started with the title. I really wouldn’t have had any desire to write a book about a bunch of jungle animals chasing around a disruptive hippo if not for the title. In my mind, the pun ‘Hiccupotamus’ is the most important thing about that particular book.”
As you create and engage your imagination this month, think about your picture book’s title. In what way can an engaging title enhance your picture book? How can you use the title to attract readers? Perhaps you can be the Author with the Terrific, Tremendous, Oh-So-Grand, Very Remarkable Title.
As you celebrate PiBoIdMo and Picture Book Month, read LOTS of picture books. Comment below and share with us your favorite picture book titles and why you think they are so splendiferous. Here’s to Picture Books! Read * Share * Celebrate!
Dianne de Las Casas is an award-winning author, storyteller, and founder of Picture Book Month. Her performances, dubbed “revved-up storytelling” are full of energetic audience participation. The author of 24 books, Dianne is the International Reading Association LEADER 2014 Poet Laureate, and the 2014 recipient of the Ann Martin Book Mark award. Her children’s titles include The Cajun Cornbread Boy, There’s a Dragon in the Library, The Little “Read” Hen, The House That Santa Built, and Cinderellaphant. Visit her website at diannedelascasas.com. Visit Picture Book Month at PictureBookMonth.com. Twitter & Instagram: @AuthorDianneDLC Picture Book Month Twitter: @PictureBkMonth Facebook: fanofdianne and PictureBookMonth. Dianne is the proud mom of 14-year-old culinary celebrity, Kid Chef Eliana.
231 comments
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October 31, 2014 at 7:03 am
Dee Knabb
Thoughtful insights on titles.
October 31, 2014 at 9:09 am
diannedelascasas
Thank you!
October 31, 2014 at 9:11 am
diannedelascasas
Thank you, Dee! I appreciate it.
October 31, 2014 at 7:10 am
carrie a. pearson
Great post, Dianne. My ideas often come in the form of titles, too. I Wanna Iguana is one of my favorites. Love the rhyme and plot peek.
October 31, 2014 at 9:10 am
diannedelascasas
Thank you so much, Carrie. Yours is a cute title!
October 31, 2014 at 7:15 am
Joyce Tucker
Interesting blog! It made me think of how titles have drawn me into many books. One of my favorites: Cendrillon, A Cajun Cinderella. May be simple, but it drew me in as I created a fairy tale unit for my students. Louisiana provides a rich environment for ideas 🙂
October 31, 2014 at 9:13 am
diannedelascasas
Thank you, Joyce! I love my Louisiana! Living in #NOLA is great inspiration for my books too.
October 31, 2014 at 7:15 am
storyfairy
“Happy Birthday Moon” is one of my favorite picture books and picture book titles. 🙂 -Lily Stejskal
October 31, 2014 at 9:14 am
diannedelascasas
That’s a great book, Lily. Thank you for sharing!
October 31, 2014 at 7:17 am
Margaret Flint Suter
love this ’cause I have a terrible time giving a title to my works…starting with the title is an inspiration I may have to put on the first page of my PiBoIdMo journal!
October 31, 2014 at 9:14 am
diannedelascasas
Margaret, it makes me happy to see that you were inspired by my post! Here’s to titles!
October 31, 2014 at 7:20 am
Nat Keller
Hmmm…something to think about! Usually my stories start as ideas and the titles come later, I’ll have to start a” title idea” page, and try it the other way! Thanks Dianne!
November 4, 2014 at 3:04 am
Dianne de Las Casas
Nat, I love starting my picture books with titles. It’s fun to build a plot around one fantastic idea!
October 31, 2014 at 7:22 am
debkrygeris
Dianne, one of my favorite picture books that I share during the holidays with my 6th grade students (mentor text for voice) is Dear Santa: The Letters of James B. Dobbins by Bill Harley. I laugh every time I read it. The long title just fits the story so well! Great post – love the emphasis on just the right title!
October 31, 2014 at 9:16 am
diannedelascasas
Deb, I love Bill Harley. He is such an amazing storyteller and singer. And yes, he has awesome books as well. Thank you for sharing!
October 31, 2014 at 7:24 am
lindamartinandersen
Titles are often what I remember best about some books. Details may fade in my mind, but a good title usually doesn’t.
October 31, 2014 at 9:16 am
diannedelascasas
Linda, that is a great point. I also remember really great book titles. 😃
October 31, 2014 at 7:31 am
Jamie Deenihan
I’ve been struggling with titles so this was perfect timing! Thank you!
October 31, 2014 at 9:18 am
diannedelascasas
Jamie, I’m glad my post provides some inspiration for you. I hope you come up with some fabulous titles!
October 31, 2014 at 7:34 am
ManjuBeth
My current favorite picture books are Zero, One & Two by Kathryn Otoshi. I like short titles.
October 31, 2014 at 9:19 am
diannedelascasas
ManjuBeth, genius books! Thank you for reminding me of those awesome one-word titles. Kathryn is amazing.
October 31, 2014 at 7:36 am
Sue Poduska
Love the categories! Thank you!
October 31, 2014 at 9:23 am
diannedelascasas
Sue, thank you. I’m flattered. Happy PiBoIdMo and Happy Picture Book Month!
October 31, 2014 at 7:40 am
Hayley B
A favorite title? Hmm… I love Patricia McClachlan’s hilarious collection of dog poems entitled ONCE I ATE A PIE. Thanks, Dianne!
October 31, 2014 at 9:26 am
diannedelascasas
Hayley, Patricia’s books are wonderful. Thank you for sharing.
October 31, 2014 at 7:49 am
Lynn A. Davidson
Thanks, Dianne, for the emphasis on the importance of a good title. – Lynn A. Davidson
October 31, 2014 at 9:27 am
diannedelascasas
Lynn, isn’t it funny how sometimes pointing out the obvious can be so inspirational? I really do love a good book title!
October 31, 2014 at 7:51 am
Virginia Law Manning
I like the idea of a story all starting with a title! I hope some winners come to me during PiBoIdMo!
October 31, 2014 at 9:28 am
diannedelascasas
PiBoIdMo is awesome for that, Virginia! I hope you come up with many more picture book titles that become picture books!
October 31, 2014 at 8:00 am
Sue Heavenrich
sometimes the idea I jot down in my PiBo notebook is a title…. other times finding a title is like pulling teeth from a fossilized dragon. Great post from a person who knows titles! thanks Dianne.
October 31, 2014 at 9:29 am
diannedelascasas
Sue, thank you so much. I really appreciate it. A good title is so memorable and that is really important for our readers. Have a great PiBoIdMo!
October 31, 2014 at 8:10 am
lmconnors
Lisa Connors
I love playing with words for titles! I’m going to read this post AGAIN! just like Emily Gravitt’s little dragon. Thanks.
October 31, 2014 at 9:30 am
diannedelascasas
Lisa, thank you so much for the compliment. It is an honor that you want to read my post again. Have fun with your titles!
October 31, 2014 at 8:14 am
Cindy S
One of my favorites is Mem Fox’s ‘Wilfrid Gordon McDonald Partridge’
You just have to love this kid!
October 31, 2014 at 9:30 am
diannedelascasas
Cindy, that is a great title. I have not read that book yet although I love Mem Fox. Thank you for sharing!
October 31, 2014 at 8:14 am
Heather Thurmeier
Titles are definitely important for all books, but especially ones that are going to attract our young audience!
October 31, 2014 at 9:31 am
diannedelascasas
Heather, it’s also important to attract those grown-ups with the purchase power! LOL 😉
October 31, 2014 at 8:36 am
Becky P. Hurd
I’ve definitely written books based solely on the title and this article gave me great ideas on ways to snatch the reader’s attention with just the title, long or short. 🙂
October 31, 2014 at 9:33 am
diannedelascasas
Becky, when you come up with a great title, sometimes you just know it. Of course, following a great title with an even more awesome story has really what we’re after, right?! 😄
October 31, 2014 at 8:40 am
Jim Chaize
I have a fuller understanding of the importance of PB titles. I have never started a story by having an idea for a title. Maybe it will happen during the next 30 days.
October 31, 2014 at 9:34 am
diannedelascasas
Jim, I’m so glad that my post can serve as a springboard for your ideas. Good luck!
October 31, 2014 at 8:41 am
Barbara Cairns
Thanks, Dianne for reminding us about the importance of good… er… great titles. And thanks, too, for starting Picture Book Month!
October 31, 2014 at 9:35 am
diannedelascasas
Barbara, it’s my pleasure! 💖
October 31, 2014 at 8:41 am
Genevieve Petrillo
I love how the types of titles can be categorized like that. Who knew? I’m not sure which kind I like best. I’m also not sure which kind I write most often. Food for thought…
October 31, 2014 at 9:36 am
diannedelascasas
Genevieve, I’m a sucker for lists and categories. What can I say? LOL
October 31, 2014 at 8:49 am
Kimberly Sebastian
Thanks for this post! When I reach my first “stuck” day in PiBoIdMo, I will turn to this post and challenge myself to develop a title in each category!
October 31, 2014 at 9:37 am
diannedelascasas
Kimberly, i’m so flattered! I’m so glad this post will be able to help you when you get stuck. Hopefully, that won’t happen this month. You’ll be blessed with a plethora of ideas and cool titles. 👍
October 31, 2014 at 8:56 am
Debra Shumaker
Titles frequently come to me first as well. Great post.
October 31, 2014 at 9:37 am
diannedelascasas
Debra, I think the same way. I start all my books with titles. GMTA 😆
October 31, 2014 at 9:11 am
Joanne Roberts
Thank-you, Dianne. Titles are hard for me, but the way you’ve categorized them will be a big help to me this year. I’m looking forward to all the Picture Book Month inspiration again this year!
October 31, 2014 at 9:38 am
diannedelascasas
Joanne, I love helping people and I’m so glad that this post helps you. Tara and I both have such a deep love for picture books. November is such a great month for them! 😍
October 31, 2014 at 9:15 am
Sherri Jones Rivers
This teaching on terrific titles was tremendously tantalizing.
October 31, 2014 at 9:39 am
diannedelascasas
Your awesome alliteration astounds me! 💖
October 31, 2014 at 9:20 am
rowenarae
Thanks for your post, Dianne! My mind is ticking on titles already. Thanks also for the introduction to Picture Book Month. I’m a newbie with writing PBs so I’m still learning about the community, and I look forward to reading and learning lots more through your November celebration.
October 31, 2014 at 9:40 am
diannedelascasas
Yay! You’ll have a great, busy month of Picture book inspiration! 😊
October 31, 2014 at 9:23 am
Jodi Moore
Love this post so much, I may just concentrate on coming up with 30 TITLES this month! 🙂 Thanks for sharing!
October 31, 2014 at 9:41 am
diannedelascasas
Jodi, that is soooo cool! A memorable title is so important. I hope you succeed with your goal. I’m behind you! 👊
October 31, 2014 at 9:33 am
Shena Ashcraft
The title is the hardest part for me, I think because I always thought it had to come last. Sometimes I share a witty title with my husband; I need to write those down and use them as a start! Thanks!
October 31, 2014 at 9:41 am
diannedelascasas
Shena, absolutely! Definitely write those titles down. Don’t just share your cleverness with your husband… LOL
October 31, 2014 at 9:33 am
Lois Peterson
Thanks, Dianne. Like Jodi Moore, I may focus on coming up with titles this month, too. I know many of my story ideas in the past began that way.
October 31, 2014 at 9:42 am
diannedelascasas
Lois, amazing! Coming up with 30 titles… It will be a creative challenge but if you succeed, it will be so worth it. Here’s to you! 👍
October 31, 2014 at 9:33 am
creationsbymit
Great post! My book ideas tend to begin as titles, but I hadn’t ever really thought about it before!
October 31, 2014 at 9:43 am
diannedelascasas
Like I said before, sometimes stating the obvious can be a springboard into even greater creativity. 😃
October 31, 2014 at 9:39 am
Nancy Piper Davis
I am definitely going to have to rethink some titles!! Thank you for pointing out what should be obvious, but is often overlooked!
October 31, 2014 at 9:45 am
diannedelascasas
Nancy, I’m happy to do it. I hope you have great success with all of your picture book titles. ❤️
October 31, 2014 at 9:44 am
Jenny Seiger
Thanks, Dianne. Great post! I often come up with titles last but it will be fun to try to come up with them first!
October 31, 2014 at 9:45 am
diannedelascasas
Jenny, I hope you come up with some great titles this month. It’ll be fun to play with your picture book ideas in that way. 👍
October 31, 2014 at 9:45 am
pathaap
Wonderful post, Dianne! It’s given me lots of ideas – thanks!
October 31, 2014 at 9:46 am
diannedelascasas
Pat, you’re welcome! I’m so glad this post inspires you. Have a great PiBoIdMo!
October 31, 2014 at 9:58 am
mariagianferrari
A good title goes such a long way! Thanks for the fun post, Dianne! And I had no idea about PB Month–I just signed up! It looks great–thank you!
October 31, 2014 at 10:02 am
diannedelascasas
Maria, that’s awesome! And yes, a good title goes a long way! 😄
October 31, 2014 at 10:00 am
kdveiten
Love the idea of spin-offs from already published books, and puns are the best!
October 31, 2014 at 10:03 am
diannedelascasas
I’m a fan of puns myself. My latest picture book is Cinderellaphant. 😊
October 31, 2014 at 10:01 am
Wendy Greenley
Great post, Dianne. I was just re-reading Laura Purdie Salas’ “Water Can Be” and that title just pulls me in.
October 31, 2014 at 10:03 am
diannedelascasas
Wendy, thank you! I love how a good title pulls you in! 👍
October 31, 2014 at 10:02 am
Alayne Kay Christian
Thanks, Dianne. This post put some cracks and let some light into my creative brain caves 😉
October 31, 2014 at 10:04 am
diannedelascasas
Alayne, wow. I love how you phrased that. Here’s to more creative cracks! 😆
October 31, 2014 at 10:08 am
apserione
The Romans Latin said: Sine nomina perit cognitio rerum. Without the names the knowledge get lost. Good hint that.
October 31, 2014 at 10:06 am
Beth Barrett
Dianne, this post opened up a new “ideas channel” for me! I have titles pop into my head all the time, but somehow dismissed them as “cart before the horse.” NOW, I will run with them and see where they take me. Thanks for the insight!
November 4, 2014 at 3:06 am
Dianne de Las Casas
Beth, it’s so much fun to have the “cart before the horse” sometimes! 😀
October 31, 2014 at 10:07 am
loriannlevyholm
The Stinky Cheese Man!, The Tue Story of the Three Little Pigs…ok, I’m a Lane Smith fan. I like the idea of thinking of titles. Thank you.
October 31, 2014 at 10:21 am
Doris Stone
Thank you Dianne for a wonderful post.
October 31, 2014 at 10:23 am
DonnaCangelosidonnacangelosi
Thank you for a great post. My writing usually goes smoother when I have a title in mind.
October 31, 2014 at 10:23 am
Nancy Colle
Thought provoking! I try to come up with at least 10 titles for 1 story -in case the one I like doesn’t work.
October 31, 2014 at 10:32 am
Christy Mihaly
Lots to think about here — thank you! I am not a “title person” so can use all the help I can get in this department. A title is usually the last thing I come up with when I write. But, I’m always willing to try a new way!
October 31, 2014 at 10:33 am
Tina Cho
Excellent post! I love how you categorized the titles! Looking forward to reading PB Month essays!
October 31, 2014 at 10:39 am
Kelly Campbell
Great post. My last two book outlines started with titles, and simple ones at that. I tend to favor prepositional phrases…
October 31, 2014 at 10:43 am
Mike Karg
“It’s too bad Tolstoy didn’t get to use his original title: War, what is it good for?” -Elaine Benes (Seinfeld)
October 31, 2014 at 10:58 am
Stacey Shubitz
I am title challenged so I really appreciated this post. (Took notes and everything!) THANKS Dianne!
October 31, 2014 at 11:05 am
Marcy P.
Im SOOOOOO glad for this post!!! Titles are the hardest thing for me to write (ironically enough). Ugh. I’m awful at it. BUT… I love how this post breaks it down. THANK YOU!
October 31, 2014 at 11:14 am
Judy Cox
My book, “Don’t Be Silly, Mrs. Millie!” began with the title and has proved to be one of my best selling picture books.
October 31, 2014 at 11:27 am
teresarobeson
Nice post! I am the World’s Worst Title Generator ever. I’m forever begging my critique group mates to help me come up with a better title. 😛 I wish I could go about it the other way around: think of a great title first and then write a story. :}
October 31, 2014 at 11:31 am
viviankirkfield
Wonderful golden nugget today, Dianne – ‘titles are vital to a book’s success’. And thank you for sharing the awesome list of title categories with great examples of current books. It was helpful hearing how so many authors start with a title…and for me, that is what PiBoIdMo is all about. You’ve inspired me to pull out my journals from past years and revisit some of those ideas. 🙂
October 31, 2014 at 11:32 am
Lori Dubbin
“The title’s the thing.” I love the title “The Big Orange Splot” by Daniel Pinkwater
October 31, 2014 at 11:38 am
Nancy Armo
Loved your examples! A good title can be a hook into the story.
October 31, 2014 at 11:38 am
kathalsey
Titles turn me on. I can usually think of a good one and then it sets me off to writing, but sometimes the title is better than the story. lol. Great post, Dianne.
October 31, 2014 at 11:42 am
Priya
I need to let my imagination run wildly for an engaging title. (Priya Gopal)
October 31, 2014 at 11:43 am
Christie
What a great post. The title is most often what grabs me in a book store, followed by the illustrations, and then the story. If all three appeal to me, I’m sure to buy it for my collection. My favorite titles are the verbose and/and punny ones 🙂
October 31, 2014 at 11:46 am
Anita Banks
Thank you for the post, love your idea!
October 31, 2014 at 11:48 am
Carolyn Rohrbaugh
Very informative. Thank you
October 31, 2014 at 12:03 pm
Jacqueline
Thanks for the terrific title tips! One title that grabbed me was SLEEPLESS BEAUTY (Frances Minters, G. Brian Karas). Because it was the opposite of what I expected, I couldn’t wait to find out why she was sleepless.
October 31, 2014 at 12:06 pm
Rebekah Hoeft
Never choose a book by its cover, er, title does not work for me! I am a sucker for a good title and can’t decide which category makes me the most happy. Three of my very favorite kid books are When Giants Come to Play (magical title, writing, and illustrations), Marcel the Shell with Shoes On, and A Pig Parade Is a Terrible Idea. Chose to read each because of the title.
October 31, 2014 at 12:12 pm
Donna L. Sadd
Yep, a title is make or break really. I like LLAMA LLAMA RED PAJAMA! :0)
October 31, 2014 at 12:15 pm
Lori Alexander
Yes! I love a snappy title. Thanks for the helpful post.
October 31, 2014 at 12:16 pm
Deirdre Sheridan Englehart
I love your way of thinking about titles… Thanks for your perspective!
October 31, 2014 at 12:18 pm
Marty McCormick
I agree, titles are SO important. Some of my faves: If You Give A Mouse A Cookie………… (and all of Laura Numeroff’s similar titles) because they create immediate curiousity; and We Were Tired of Living In A House, for much the same reason. It creates a question in the mind. Where else would you live?! Marty McCormick
October 31, 2014 at 12:29 pm
lindaschueler
I loved picture book month last year, and I can’t wait for this year’s. Glad it’s starting tomorrow. Thanks for some great picture book titles and the reminder to think carefully about our own.
October 31, 2014 at 12:37 pm
claireannette1
It’s true people pick books by their titles – not by their covers.
October 31, 2014 at 12:47 pm
Stephanie Geckle (@SPGeckle)
Great post! Two of my favorite titles are Streganona and Petrosinella. I guess I’m feeling a little Italian today. Don’t they sound exotic?! Ciao 😉
October 31, 2014 at 12:54 pm
Sandy Powell
I don’t usually get my story ideas from a title, but I agree the title is very important. One of my favorite titles is…Olivia.
October 31, 2014 at 1:12 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Oh how I love punny titles! Love all the examples you shared. Looking forward to a wonderful November of posts!
October 31, 2014 at 1:16 pm
januaryfae
This will be a challenge, as titles are tricky for me.
October 31, 2014 at 1:21 pm
Anne Bromley
Thank you for this insightful post. One of my favorites is BOY + BOT. It is playful and raises the question, “What in the world will this be about?” And I also love SICK DAY FOR AMOS MCGEE for its straightforwardness as well as intrigue: Who is Amos McGree? He’s actually one of my most favorite PB characters – a childlike zookeeper who takes care of his friends.
October 31, 2014 at 1:31 pm
jdewdropsofink
I need to start brainstorming some fun titles then. Lovely ideas. Thank you.
October 31, 2014 at 1:38 pm
Laura Purdie Salas
I struggle with titles so much! For me, most of the one-word/name titles really aren’t inherently interesting unless it’s an evocative word. Who could resist NINJA!? OLIVIA, on the other hand, would never entice me as a reader who had never seen/read the Olivia books. It’s only because the books are fabulous that the title, in retrospect, works. Thanks for laying out some of the title categories–I know I need to think about this more!
October 31, 2014 at 1:41 pm
Lauri Fortino
My story ideas almost always start with a title, even though the title may change as the story progresses. One book that I really like a lot has a “shocking” title. It’s I Hate Picture Books by Timothy Young. It’s definitely an attention grabber.
October 31, 2014 at 1:46 pm
Karen Lawler
Thank You for the reminder… I love to read titles to all books PB right up through adult books. The Title has POWER!! That is for sure!! 🙂
October 31, 2014 at 1:47 pm
Stacy S. Jensen
I love it when a title is perfect for the story between the covers. It’s magic when it all works.
October 31, 2014 at 1:50 pm
Nicole Popel
A jaw-dropping title isa indeed the first hook!
October 31, 2014 at 1:53 pm
Nicole Popel
Love reading everyone’s comments!
October 31, 2014 at 1:56 pm
Patricia Toht
Helpful post, Dianne. I admit that I stink at titles — this will give me ideas to think about when naming a book.
October 31, 2014 at 2:04 pm
Stephen S. Martin
I almost always start with a Title, but I have been advised not to get too attached to them.
October 31, 2014 at 2:16 pm
Sherry Walz
Dianne, thanks for the interesting post. Three titles that draw me to them as a reader are: Chicks Run Wild, A Splash of Red: The Life and Art of Horace Pippin, and While You Were Napping.
October 31, 2014 at 2:17 pm
Pam Miller
Thanks Dianne for an informative and memorable post. While a few of my titles seem to be a perfect fit, there are those other ones that have changed with each revision. (headache a comin’)
October 31, 2014 at 2:28 pm
Ashley Bohmer
Titles tend to be tricky for me, but I have a feeling they may not be anymore. 😉 Thanks a million!
October 31, 2014 at 2:33 pm
Tracy Molitors
Thanks, Dianne. I love great titles including two by Sudipta Bardham Quallen, “Orangatangled” and “Snoring Beauty.”
October 31, 2014 at 2:39 pm
LovableLobo
Thanks for sharing your brilliant insight, Dianne, for founding Picture Book Month and your website that shares more picture book splendor. November has to be the best month of the year! In my book, that makes you and Tara splendiferous!
October 31, 2014 at 3:01 pm
Carrie Charley Brown
Thanks, Dianne! Titles are often the first thing that pop into my head. I love this post exploring something that truly judges a book by it’s cover. Even before that really, the spine of the book is the first peek, and what do we see? The title, of course!
October 31, 2014 at 3:19 pm
Kathryn Ault Noble
Thank you for breaking them into categories, Diane. I admit to never having started with a title as the springboard, but bells were going off as I read your suggestions! I feel a bit less stuck today. I guess we all over the years have reponded to “Hop on Pop” and “One Fish Two Fish, Red Fish Blue Fish”. Or “Strega Nona”, “The Velveteen Rabbit”, and “Outside Over There”. For current titles I enjoy “A Cat Like That” by Wendy Wahman, “Wombat Walkabout” by Carol Diggory Shields and Sophie Blackall, “The Curious Garden” by Peter Brown, and “Once Upon A Memory” by Nina Laden and Renata Liwska and. . .
October 31, 2014 at 3:27 pm
Nadine Gamble
Still love Caps For Sale….those monkeys!
October 31, 2014 at 3:43 pm
Sydney O'Neill
I can’t resist opening a book with a great title. Thanks, Dianne, for the reminder of how important the title is.
October 31, 2014 at 3:44 pm
Jennifer Sommer
I have always liked “Felicianna Meets d’Loup Garou” and “Feliciana Feydra LeRoux.” Both those titles, especially when said together, keeps rolling off my tongue with a “oo oo oo.”
October 31, 2014 at 3:52 pm
dianneyoung65
Another great idea for generating ideas! Thanks.
October 31, 2014 at 4:01 pm
John Strong
That’s neat that you are from Louisiana! I was born and raised in New Orleans… Very excited about November! Thanks for your thoughts on book titles!
October 31, 2014 at 4:11 pm
Mary McClellan
Enjoyed your post! I’m going to try coming up with a title first. Two of my favorite book titles (and books) are MARTHA CALLING by Susan Meddaugh and LYLE LYLE CROCODILE.
October 31, 2014 at 4:29 pm
Christine M. Irvin
Titles are sooo important. Usually I come up with a title before I write the story (not always, but usually).
October 31, 2014 at 5:00 pm
Sue Frye
Loved your ideas for title scrunching! I too start with a single title, and then the story, and I lived in Louisiana a few years ago:)
October 31, 2014 at 5:08 pm
Jill Siegel
My wheels are turning from this post. Focusing on titles is a great way to spark new ideas! Thanks Diane!
(Lots of favorite titles/books: Zen Shorts, Frederick, Tuesday, Dr. Seuss titles…)
October 31, 2014 at 5:11 pm
Darshana
Thanks great post, will be bookmarking it. Maybe this will help my title creation ability, cuz right now they are pretty bland. Here are some titles that grabbed my attention: I’M MY OWN DOG, THE GRUDGE KEEPER, THE MERMAID AND THE SHOE, THE DAY THE CRAYONS QUIT
October 31, 2014 at 5:17 pm
Jane Heitman Healy
I always think I’m not good at titles. You’ve given great advice here, Dianne. Hooray for Picture Book Month and PiBoIdMo 2014!
October 31, 2014 at 5:20 pm
Buffy Silverman
Great ideas–and something new for me, as I never start a story with a title.
October 31, 2014 at 5:21 pm
tanjabauerle
What a great point! Titles are so important but I find that can be somewhat difficult to capture. Sometimes they are obvious and sometimes they are next to impossible to come up with. I love the idea of also working on title ideas for PiBoIdMo. Now where’s my journal… 🙂
October 31, 2014 at 5:40 pm
Kaye Baillie
Thanks Dianne and Tara. Got me thinking about titles. I have never begun a story with a title. Titles come to me after I have a fair idea about my story so this post was interesting.
October 31, 2014 at 5:41 pm
Shirley Menendez
Thanks for a great post. I have a difficult time with titles but agree they make a huge difference. Sometimes the publisher may have a better idea of what would sell so I keep an open mind.
October 31, 2014 at 5:52 pm
Vicki Wilke
Looks like a lot of people struggle with titles – me included. I do have lots of titles in my head without stories, and stories without good titles! But I do think this will be very helpful. Thank you Dianne!
October 31, 2014 at 6:32 pm
erikammon
This is awesome! I’ve always given my titles thought, but never thought about reasons why to go with certain titles. Thanks!!
October 31, 2014 at 6:38 pm
Cassandra Federman
I love starting with a title! Great post!
October 31, 2014 at 6:39 pm
Angela Turner
I also like short titles and catchy titles. Two that came to mind were Stick and Armadilly Chili. Often titles come to mind first, though sometimes I have the title quite a while before the story comes along to go with it. Thanks for a thoughtful post.
October 31, 2014 at 6:46 pm
mona861
Thanks! I think it’s so much easier if the title comes before the story! It so hard to figure out the title after allis said and done!
October 31, 2014 at 7:23 pm
Maria Oka
Love it! I have definitely bought books just based on the title before. And I have definitely re-shelved books just based on the title as well…
October 31, 2014 at 8:01 pm
Joanne Sher
Titles can be so much fun- and will TOTALLY draw me in! One of my favorite titles is “Tea Rex.” You know JUST what the story will be about, and the juxtaposition is FABULOUS! Thanks for this post – extremely helpful and informative!
October 31, 2014 at 8:58 pm
Sandy Perlic
I love me a good title! Just wish I could come up with more of them…
Thanks for a great post.
October 31, 2014 at 9:23 pm
Lauri Meyers
Oh yes! Your post just gave me 16 ideas! Oh no! I hope I didn’t just blow all my ideas before PiBo officially starts!
October 31, 2014 at 9:26 pm
Heather Pierce Stigall
Hmm . . . so many titles to choose from. One that comes to mind as one of my favorites is Leonardo the Terrible Monster!
October 31, 2014 at 9:28 pm
Vanessa Harvey
Flavia and the Dream Maker is one of my favorite books and titles.
October 31, 2014 at 9:30 pm
teresa m.i. schaefer (@TMISchaefer)
You present some great examples for titles. Thanks for the post — and no, I could not imagine Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good Very Bad Day being shortened
October 31, 2014 at 9:34 pm
Donna Rossman
Thank you for the great advice. I can’t resist opening a book with a great title. One I still remember from my youth was Shadow Castle by Marian Cockrell. I just had to find out what was so mysterious and shadowy.
October 31, 2014 at 9:55 pm
mwinne2
So nice to meet you, Dianne! Thanks for founding Picture Book Month! Such a fantastic celebration of all things good and wonderful!
October 31, 2014 at 10:02 pm
Caroline
Love all these categories of titles! I’m really a fan of any awesome title. JOURNEY is such a good title for Aaron Becker’s book. And TEA PARTY RULES for Ame Dyckman’s most recently published is perfect for the text. I also love so many of the great titles for newer picture book biographies. Those titles often mean even more after you’ve read the book, too.
I’m looking forward to both PiBoIdMo and Picture Book Month! LET’S DO THIS!
October 31, 2014 at 10:03 pm
Jenifer McNamara
Thanks for PiBoldMo because your idea actually showed me another way to get a picture book started.
October 31, 2014 at 10:12 pm
Penny Parker Klostermann
Titles are one of my favorite things. I’ve had several manuscripts start as titles. And when I browse at the library, I’m all about the titles. For me they start a story. They set a mood! I just loved your thoughts on titles, Dianne. My mind is humming! How will I ever sleep?
October 31, 2014 at 10:16 pm
Lori Mozdziez
Appreciate the titles to research 😃
October 31, 2014 at 10:34 pm
Maria Marshall
Excelent titles. I think “The Change Your Name Store”and “Tacky the Penguin” are awesome titles. A store where you can get another (better?) name and a ‘tacky” penguin. Thank you for jumpstarting the creative thinking!
October 31, 2014 at 10:35 pm
Donna L Martin
Thank you, Dianne and Tara, for this great post. I love the identifying list of different types of titles. I’ll keep them in mind when I’m creating my own titles. Let the fun begin!
October 31, 2014 at 10:48 pm
saputnam
Great post, Dianne! Thank you for the information on how to go about finding just the right title. It was a great help to see them broken down into different categories like that.
October 31, 2014 at 10:53 pm
Joan Kassmann
Titles made all the difference in the world when I took my children to the library. Ones that made us chuckle always made it into our pile to take home!
November 1, 2014 at 1:32 am
JEN Garrett
Which came first, the title or the story? Titles can be inspiring springboards of the great story under them.
November 1, 2014 at 1:34 am
Pia Garneau
Thank you for this post. Now you’ve got me thinking about punny titles!
November 1, 2014 at 2:24 am
Janet Halfmann
Titles indeed are so important. Thanks for the tips!
November 1, 2014 at 4:01 am
Keila Dawson
One of my favorite titles is Samantha On A Roll. Fun book. Thanks for those examples by category and providing clarity. Timely post since I wrote a story I adore but keep changing the title because none so far feel quite right. Love your books Dianne. And agree, our beloved New Orleans provides lots of story ideas.
November 1, 2014 at 7:28 am
Andrea
Thank you for introducing me to Picture Book Month! I love thinking about titles. They can be so tricky sometimes, and other times just appear in a flash of insight.
November 1, 2014 at 7:58 am
Author Ashley Howland
Great post – can’t wait to get started.
November 1, 2014 at 9:12 am
Jackie Wellington
This post is up my alley. I always start with a title. Then when I am finish, I look to revise the title that spearheaded the manuscript. Thank for sharing.
November 1, 2014 at 10:00 am
MickiGinsberg
Thanks for your inspiring post, Dianne! Wish I’d come up with “If you give a pig a party”…
November 1, 2014 at 10:25 am
Freckled Daisy Creations
Great blast off post! Grabbing notebook now!
November 1, 2014 at 10:28 am
Tracey M. Cox
Dianne,
I love playing around with title ideas and believe that titles can make or break your chances. Most of my stories result of a title idea too. Thanks!
November 1, 2014 at 11:06 am
hollyruppel
Hi, Dianne! I often start with a title, and that approach helps me think outside the box. Thanks for a great post!
November 1, 2014 at 11:14 am
Beth Blee
Great post! Thanks for sharing how important titles are. I’m going to check out Picture Book Month site.
November 1, 2014 at 11:21 am
Debbie Smart
Thanks for the great post. I’m going to work on my 30 ideas … and 30 titles. I can probably think of 30 titles faster than 30 ideas. LOL
November 1, 2014 at 11:27 am
danielledufayet
Titles are so important. I love MAPLE, ODDREY and GASTON – all wonderful character books. In fact, I Can’t even think of a great book that doesn’t live up to its title. The title is the big bow on the gift!
November 1, 2014 at 11:35 am
Dorothy Wiese
Titles are the most difficult for me to write. November will be a challenging month!
November 1, 2014 at 12:05 pm
Shirley Johnson
I went to the library with my grandson and the title of the book was “Zin, Zin, Zin a Violin” . The read it along with a presentation from the local symphony. Titles do catch my eye. I have a lot of favorites. This is something I want to work on to have a title that catches the eye of the reader and draws them in right from the beginning. Great Post!
November 1, 2014 at 12:22 pm
Carol Federoff
The first title that comes to my mind is Boynton’s “But Not the Hippopotamus” – it just sums up the whole humorous story and makes me want to read it again!
I did NOT know about Picture Book Month! How did I miss that?!
November 1, 2014 at 1:01 pm
Prairie Garden Girl
Dianne: Titles can be a bit tricky. Your many suggestions, with excellent examples, are helpful when creating a spectaculer title. Thank you for the inspiration. ~Suzy Leopold
November 1, 2014 at 1:57 pm
Mary Zychowicz
I love titles. They are usually what pop in my mind before any plot. I thought maybe that was the wrong approach. Thanks for validating my process!
November 1, 2014 at 1:59 pm
Sonja Anderson
“Recess Queen” –the title speaks loud and clear to the many kids in my elementary school library who want to read about how other kids deal with a bossy playmate!
November 1, 2014 at 3:48 pm
Melanie Ellsworth
Dianne, Thanks for this great post and for starting Picture Book Month. I always enjoy and learn a lot from the essays posted. I, too, have several manuscripts that started with a title. A fun title creates some structure to work within while still leaving a lot of room for the writer to run wild!
November 1, 2014 at 3:56 pm
kpbock
I am a fan of the “punny” titles too. Tyrannosaurus Wrecks is one of my favorites.
November 1, 2014 at 4:42 pm
Yvonne Mes
Thank you! Got my potential title list started 🙂
November 1, 2014 at 4:43 pm
Cecilia
Thankyou so much. I really need to think about titles.
November 1, 2014 at 4:47 pm
Melanie Lucero
Excellent insights and advice–thank you!!
November 1, 2014 at 6:00 pm
Shari Della Penna
Thanks for starting my creative juices flowing!!
November 1, 2014 at 7:05 pm
Laurie L Young
Sometimes titles come right away, sometimes they are the hardest part. If I don’t have it at first, I really struggle to get it. And sometimes those are the stories that don’t come together.
November 1, 2014 at 7:19 pm
angelapadron
Such a great post – love coming up with titles – they tell so much about the book. Thanks!
November 1, 2014 at 9:03 pm
Maria Bostian
One of my favorite picture book titles is No Dragons for Tea
November 1, 2014 at 9:46 pm
Deborah Patz
What a range of type of titles!
November 1, 2014 at 11:09 pm
Sheri Rad
Who knew titles were so important-I thought editors often changed them. Now I have a new November website to check for ideas. Thanks.
November 1, 2014 at 11:12 pm
stephseclecticinterests
Titles and character names … two of my favourite forms of inspiration. 🙂
November 1, 2014 at 11:13 pm
stephseclecticinterests
“Are You My Mother?” is one of my all-time favourites … and a great example of a stellar title. You can often overhear this particular question in my household – and the occupants are 59, 53, and 24. 🙂
November 1, 2014 at 11:26 pm
Leah Coleman
This post also got me writing a list of horrible titles/ideas for children’s books. Good times 🙂
November 2, 2014 at 12:14 am
Ashley Bankhead
Loved this post!! Titles are so important. It is time to get thinking!
November 2, 2014 at 12:49 am
hmmmmm
Nice breakdown & categories — thanks.
November 2, 2014 at 10:06 am
girlwrites29
My favorite picture book is Rainbow Fish. I love the simple but sparkling illustrations. Water color art is very nostalgic for me.
November 2, 2014 at 10:27 am
Pamela M. Tuck
Very inspiring post. Really gives me something to think about. Thanks for sharing. I plan to check out your website too!
November 2, 2014 at 10:40 am
Joan Waites
I usually start with a title first. Thanks for the great post on all the different types of book titles. Looking forward to Picture Book Month!
November 2, 2014 at 7:08 pm
writeknit
I have never started with the title, but plan to give it a try.
November 2, 2014 at 8:22 pm
Christine M. Irvin
Titles are very important. I usually come up with a title and then write a story to go with it.
November 2, 2014 at 9:42 pm
writersideup
OK, I’ll admit it— I’m a title-junkie! 🙂 I agree with everything you said, Dianna! Thanks! 😀
November 3, 2014 at 1:58 am
sardyhar
I love punny titles too!
November 3, 2014 at 10:48 am
Pat
Some of my fave titles: “Princess in Training,” “Zombie in Love,” Ghosts for Breakfast.” Thanks for sharing!
November 3, 2014 at 11:17 am
carolmunrojww
Yep, funky titles, funky character names — that’s what gets me going! Thanks for the post, Dianne.
November 3, 2014 at 12:12 pm
Becky Hohensee
This is genuis….haven’t thought about starting with a title. But yes, one word or phrase is the perfect foundation to built upon. Thank you Dianne for helping me to think outside of my box! 🙂
November 3, 2014 at 1:11 pm
dulcebrianna
Thanks for the great post Dianne! Excited to check out picturebookmonth.com!
November 3, 2014 at 8:46 pm
rgstones
Several of my PBs started with titles as well. I often pull books from the shelf based on titles, the last one being One Big Pair of Underwear. I knew the title alone would have my five year old. 🙂
November 4, 2014 at 3:08 am
Dianne de Las Casas
I was trying to answer everyone’s comment individually but I am swamped with Picture Book Month (and my own PiBoIdMo ideas…). Know that I appreciate all your comments. Thanks so much for taking the time to write and thank you for supporting PiBoIdMo and Picture Book Month!
November 4, 2014 at 12:41 pm
Erin O'Brien
Great post, Dianne!
November 4, 2014 at 8:14 pm
Dani Duck
I missed all of pre-PiBoIdMo and just looking at it now. I’m glad I did. Titles are so important. I think I can use this to come up with some good ideas this month. BTW is there any way to sign up for your blog by email, Dianne? Email and twitter is the best way for me to keep connected with great bloggers. Let me know if I’m missing these buttons on your website!
November 4, 2014 at 10:07 pm
Sue Frye
Excellent post!
November 5, 2014 at 2:46 am
wendymyersart
“Lyle, Lyle The Crocodile”, because it’s just fun to say! And the story is pretty great, too. “Pig Kahuna”. “Library Lion”-now you just have to look and see what it’s about.
Thanks for a great post! I love giving my picture books and my paintings titles. It’s so fun.
November 5, 2014 at 8:39 am
Michelle Heidenrich Barnes
It was not so “terrible, horrible, no good, very bad” that I came to this post a bit late since now I have the benefit of reading all of the wonderful title in the comments too! Thanks for a great post, Dianne.
November 5, 2014 at 10:16 pm
Kelly Russell Jaques
Great post, really makes me think about the importance of titles!
November 6, 2014 at 7:19 pm
Cindy Williams Schrauben
Thanks! I struggle with titles. Your post was very helpful.
November 7, 2014 at 5:58 pm
Henry Herz
Fun topic and well executed, Dianne!
November 16, 2014 at 7:13 pm
Dianne Burch
Big title person myself. Thanks for sharing the clever ones that grabbed your attention. Enjoyed the post!
November 20, 2014 at 3:03 pm
Sydney O'Neill
Love the idea of starting with the title. Thanks for the reminder of its importance.
November 25, 2014 at 9:58 pm
Rick Starkey
Titles are fun. Thanks for sharing your thoughts.
November 30, 2014 at 9:21 am
Brook Gideon
Thank you for reminding us the importance of titles! A few of my faves, “The Country Bunny and the Little Gold Shoes” (makes me wonder a million things and want to read to find out, plus no mention of Easter at all, so it adds to the story in sooo many ways), and “The Day the Crayons Quit” (how intriguing and fun does that sound?).
November 30, 2014 at 9:14 pm
Nancy Kotkin
Good titles are hard to invent. Great post!
December 1, 2014 at 5:07 am
Andrea J Loney
There are so many titles that I love… too many to even mention, although Battle Bunny comes to mind.
December 1, 2014 at 11:30 pm
Gloria Amescua
I just listed a bunch of bad titles, but I’ll keep working on it.
December 14, 2014 at 9:12 pm
danielledufayet
A good title can sometimes almost save a bad book (not really).