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PiBoIdMo Day 14: Barbara Krasner Goes for Truth (plus a prize!)

November 14, 2014 6:30 am

barbarakrasnerby Barbara Krasner

In a million years I’d never have thought my first children’s book would be a picture book. While I was working mostly on YA historical novels during my MFA program at the Vermont College of Fine Arts, a friend teased and said picture books would be my future.

I write picture book biographies. Well, no, that’s not quite right. I write picture book historical fiction, because I invent dialogue based on real-life stories. And I did the unthinkable in my picture book, Goldie Takes a Stand! Golda Meir’s First Crusade—I wrote it in first person. The version I submitted to publisher Kar-Ben, the Jewish imprint of Lerner Publishing, was 1400 words (don’t worry, it got slashed).

There was no other way to write about Golda than in first person, because her voice was so strong. I had many other picture book drafts, but I knew I had something special with Golda. It all began when I was attending two weeks of retreat at the Highlights Foundation. Between the two weeks I had to attend an event at the Touro Synagogue in Rhode Island. I perused the shelves at the Highlights farmhouse and saw Golda’s autobiography, My Life (which I learned recently she didn’t write). Over the weekend, I read it and found a snippet about how as a child, Golda staged a fundraising event in Milwaukee, where she and her family had settled as immigrants from Russia, to buy schoolbooks for classmates. She mentioned a newspaper article had appeared about the event. Back home, I contacted the Jewish Historical Society of Milwaukee and the archivist knew exactly which article I was talking about. He sent it to me.

I wrote the draft on a Saturday night. Initially, I wrote it in third person, but that didn’t seem quite right. When I changed to first, the voice and story fell into place. I interpreted a true event but had to fill in the gaps to present the problem Golda and her friends faced. I invented dialogue. But the event itself was true and documented.

Goldie Takes a Stand (2)

I drafted the story in October 2011. I took it to workshops. I submitted the manuscript to Kar-Ben the following April and received an offer in June 2012. The book was published in August 2014.

I had been researching the story of the MS St. Louis since 2010, when I interviewed eight survivors of the ill-fated voyage. In 1939, this ship of nearly 1,000 German-Jewish refugees left Germany for safe haven from Nazism in Cuba. But when it arrived there, the passengers weren’t allowed to disembark. Denied refuge, the ship roamed the Atlantic until a philanthropic organization negotiated landing in Antwerp and distribution of the passengers to England, France, the Netherlands, and Belgium.

liesl-frontSmall

One of the women I interviewed, Liesl Joseph Loeb, was the daughter of the head of the passenger committee. I wrote a middle-grade narrative, but the story was difficult to tell, because so much happened that children on board wouldn’t have known about. Then it dawned on me to focus on Liesl in a picture book. That became Liesl’s Ocean Rescue, coming out very soon from Gihon River Press, a specialized Holocaust publisher. Again, I took dramatic license with Liesl’s story, but it is based on her interview and true events.

 What I learned is absolutely true:

  1. Go with your gut. If something doesn’t feel quite right, change it.
  2. Make a weakness a strength. Some publishers rejected my manuscript, because it was in first person. I decided to make that my story’s strength.
  3. Keep trying. I graduated from VCFA in 2006. Eight years later my first children’s book appeared. I still have those YA historical novels under the bed. Maybe they’ll make it out some day, but for right now, my focus is on picture book biographies.
  4. Get your manuscript vetted. Even though my picture books are fictionalized, they are based on true events. I needed to find subject matter experts who could vet the manuscripts.
  5. Write a biography only if the subject wrote an autobiography. Since these two picture books, I’ve drafted a few biographies, now with my agent. But these stories are true—and are in first person.

guestbloggerbio2014

Barbara Krasner holds an M.B.A. in Marketing from Rutgers University and an M.F.A. in Writing for Children & Young Adults from the Vermont College of Fine Arts (VCFA). She is currently an adjunct professor in the English department at William Paterson University, teaching introductory and advanced creative writing, fiction writing, and children’s literature. GOLDIE TAKES A STAND: GOLDA MEIR’S FIRST CRUSADE, released in 2014 with Kar-Ben Publishers, is her debut picture book. LIESEL’S OCEAN RESCUE is due from Gihon River Press this December.

You can connect with her at BarbaraKrasner.com and read her blog about Jewish-themed writing, The Whole Megillah. Follow her on Twitter @BarbaraKrasner.

prizedetails2014

Barbara is giving away a copy of GOLDIE TAKES A STAND!

This prize will be given away at the conclusion of PiBoIdMo. You are eligible for this prize if:

  1. You have registered for PiBoIdMo.
  2. You have commented ONCE ONLY on today’s post.
  3. You have completed the PiBoIdMo challenge. (You will have to sign the PiBoIdMo Pledge at the end of the event.)

Good luck, everyone!

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Posted by Tara Lazar

Categories: PiBoIdMo 2014, Picture Books

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359 Responses to “PiBoIdMo Day 14: Barbara Krasner Goes for Truth (plus a prize!)”

  1. Thank you! I never considered a PB biography before. Hmmm.

    By Laurie Theurer on November 14, 2014 at 6:34 am

  2. I enjoyed reading about your process. Biographies are next on my list brainstorm!

    By Susan Cabael on November 14, 2014 at 6:41 am

  3. Can’t wait to read these! Thanks for the inspiration!

    By Rebekah Hoeft on November 14, 2014 at 6:43 am

  4. I like 🙂 Looking for a gem as you research. Ah yes, I’ve deemed a new approach – “The Diamond in the Rough” Thank you for your story, time, ides, and encouragement. ~Peace

    By Theresa Love on November 14, 2014 at 6:53 am

  5. Aren’t Highlights workshops wonderful? Congratulations on making your book’s “weakness” its strength!

    By deborahholtwilliams on November 14, 2014 at 6:54 am

  6. This is a great book and I believe it empowers girls.

    By lindamartinandersen on November 14, 2014 at 6:59 am

  7. On my “Appalachia-Science in the Public Interest” calendar for today is the notation “LAST QUARTER” for the moon phase, and for today…”go with your gut”. I had already written that down in my PiBoIdMo booklet before going to my e-mails and then to Barbara’s blog for today (cue eerie music) Wow!! How cool is this! Putting both books on my list for my independent book seller to order!

    By Margaret Flint Suter on November 14, 2014 at 7:06 am

  8. Great post! Thanks for sharing! 🙂

    By Sheri Dillard on November 14, 2014 at 7:13 am

  9. Big fan of historical fiction! Historical Fiction pictures books are even better!

    By Amy Murray on November 14, 2014 at 7:18 am

  10. Congratulations on your books! They sound fascinating. Thanks for the post.

    By lindaschueler on November 14, 2014 at 7:25 am

  11. This is so interesting! Thanks, Barbara, for sharing your process.

    By Susan Halko on November 14, 2014 at 7:27 am

  12. Thanks for the info! I’ve been working on some biographies myself, so this was a very timely post.

    By Rebecca Colby on November 14, 2014 at 7:32 am

  13. It was great to hear your story and to read your absolutely true statements! Thank you!

    By Deirdre Englehart on November 14, 2014 at 7:35 am

  14. I love that first person worked and you stuck with it. I love that it took eight years after VT and you stuck with it. I love that you switched gears and wrote a picturebook using a middle grade novel that you couldn’t craft to your liking. You have stuck with picture books, for now. I wish you much success. Thank you for the reminder to try different things as a writer and to never give up.

    By imartypoet on November 14, 2014 at 7:38 am

  15. I wish I could take a class from you, Barbara! I am so impressed with the fact that you are not a “pleaser”!
    So much of what I read about getting published sounds like a lot of trying to second guess what publishers want and playing into that.
    I like that you followed your gut and let the right publisher trust in YOU!
    Thanks for today’s important lesson!

    By artsfusionmethod on November 14, 2014 at 7:40 am

  16. Some of the best advice I’ve heard. You only have a voice when you listen to yours, not follow a formula for success. Thank you!

    By Dee Knabb on November 14, 2014 at 7:42 am

  17. Excellent post. Thank you so much for this advice. The go with your gut is so true. Love this. Will follow it always. I do have a couple picture books in mind that are like yours.

    By Robyn Campbell on November 14, 2014 at 7:46 am

  18. Thoughts for the awesome advice 😀

    By Lori Mozdzierz on November 14, 2014 at 7:57 am

  19. Eight years it took! I admire your determination and hope I have just as much.

    By BHandiboe on November 14, 2014 at 8:04 am

  20. Lisa Connors
    Congratulations on following your heart and on your new releases.

    By lmconnors on November 14, 2014 at 8:04 am

  21. Wonderful post. I never thought of “talking” for my historical characters. Thank you for this affirmation.

    By mona861 on November 14, 2014 at 8:07 am

  22. great post! I have a copy of Goldie Takes a Stand – it’s a fun read – and I reviewed it over at Sally’s Bookshelf. Thanks for filling in the background for how you got from idea to picture book.

    By Sue Heavenrich on November 14, 2014 at 8:09 am

  23. Wonderful! I got chills reading this. It wil be wonderful to read this historical biographical picture books about such Amazing true life people and their stories!
    Thank you!

    By Shel LeDrew on November 14, 2014 at 8:09 am

  24. This is a fascinating post! Thank you!

    By gweddle on November 14, 2014 at 8:10 am

  25. Great article! I think I would love to try writing a picture book biography!

    By mwebb32 on November 14, 2014 at 8:10 am

  26. Great post! My children love historical fiction in both picture books and novel format – but I never put much thought into how they come together. What a marvelous process of discovery and creation!

    By kateywrites on November 14, 2014 at 8:13 am

  27. This is very interesting! I love historical fiction and have thought of doing a PB historical fiction before and have actually written one, but it needs a lot of work. Congratulations!

    By Janet Smart on November 14, 2014 at 8:17 am

  28. Great post. I love the comment about not writing a biography unless the person wrote an autobiography–so interesting!

    By Michele Prestininzi on November 14, 2014 at 8:18 am

  29. Awesome post, Barbara!

    Dana Edwards

    By momslifeponderings on November 14, 2014 at 8:24 am

  30. Thank you for sharing. Love the truth.

    By CJ Lucas on November 14, 2014 at 8:29 am

  31. Thank you for sharing your story

    By Jan Milusich on November 14, 2014 at 8:37 am

  32. Really interesting and encouraging. I enjoy doing interesting research, but never thought about possibly connecting it to picture books.

    By Nini Engel on November 14, 2014 at 8:39 am

  33. Thanks for sharing, Barbara!

    By marciecolleen on November 14, 2014 at 8:44 am

  34. Thanks for a really interesting post and a great insight into this area of picture book publshing. 🙂

    By cat jones on November 14, 2014 at 8:48 am

  35. Thanks for describing your process for finding the right voice, Barbara. It’s funny how those pieces end up fitting together once we’ve committed to the journey in telling a book in the best possible way, no matter the # of drafts!

    I look forward to reading your books!

    By mariagianferrari on November 14, 2014 at 8:58 am

  36. Thank you for your perspective on truth and sharing your story. I really like the idea of writing historical fiction in first person.

    By Ann K on November 14, 2014 at 9:01 am

  37. Great advice. This is such an important genre and I hope to see more great picture book biographies in the future!

    By Alexa Kaufhold on November 14, 2014 at 9:02 am

  38. Making your weakness your strength…Thanks for the advice!

    By Lorraine Donohue Bonzelet on November 14, 2014 at 9:04 am

  39. Thank you for sharing – in your post and these great stories so that children can see what children in the past have experienced and perhaps draw inspiration . Bravo!

    By Jeanine Potter on November 14, 2014 at 9:10 am

  40. All your perseverance payed off, Barb. Mazal Tov!!
    Andria Rosenbaum

    By Andria on November 14, 2014 at 9:17 am

  41. Thanks for encouraging me to follow my gut, Barbara!

    By marcimcadam on November 14, 2014 at 9:18 am

  42. I admire your courage – going with your guts. The norm is not always the right way. I’m glad you did it your way and found your voice.

    By debra daugherty on November 14, 2014 at 9:18 am

  43. Umm…yes I know how to spell paid ;-)–I just need coffee

    By Andria on November 14, 2014 at 9:18 am

  44. Congrats on your books! I need to learn to trust my gut more. 🙂 Thanks for the post.

    By rgstones on November 14, 2014 at 9:19 am

  45. Congratulations on your books, Barbara. And I like how you stood up for how you wanted your books to be.

    By Tina Cho on November 14, 2014 at 9:26 am

  46. In the process of researching it must be great to find people like the Milwaukee archivist you mentioned — who jump on board with info and maybe even get enthusiastic about your project! Research (and writing!) can get so solitary…
    Thanks for the post — and especially for the reminder about turning liabilities into assets!

    By hmmmmm on November 14, 2014 at 9:26 am

  47. I like the idea of making your weakness a strength. Your books sound fascinating and I look forward to reading them. Thank you for sharing Barbara! 🙂

    By Heidi Yates on November 14, 2014 at 9:27 am

  48. Interesting idea on first person. I may try that in a revision. Thanks.

    By Stacy S. Jensen on November 14, 2014 at 9:33 am

  49. Great advice, Barbara!

    By pathaap on November 14, 2014 at 9:35 am

  50. Wonderful stories and lots of good reminders. Thanks!

    By beckylevine on November 14, 2014 at 9:35 am

  51. Wow! What you have done is amazing and impressive. I admire you for doing so much research and transforming it into something rich for children
    to grasp.

    By Rebecca E. Guzinski on November 14, 2014 at 9:36 am

  52. Thanks for this post! I majored in history and english at university and lately I’v been wondering how I could best bring some history into my writing! I’m delighted to see how successful you’ve been in doing just that!

    By cartwomey on November 14, 2014 at 9:38 am

  53. Writing a biography is first person sounds extremely challenging. Congratulations to you! Thank you for the inspiring post.

    By Debbie Wagenbach on November 14, 2014 at 9:43 am

  54. Barbara has inspired me to comb some biographies for ideas for PiBoIdMo!

    By Kimberly Sebastian on November 14, 2014 at 9:44 am

  55. Great tips for nonfiction ideas. -Zach Ratcliffe

    By Zach Ratcliffe on November 14, 2014 at 9:47 am

  56. Thanks for the inspiration!

    By Laura Bellina on November 14, 2014 at 9:48 am

  57. Interesting story! Thank you for sharing and best of luck with your future endeavors 🙂

    By Jessie on November 14, 2014 at 9:49 am

  58. Thanks for sharing! I can’t wait to read your books.

    By Janine Johns on November 14, 2014 at 9:49 am

  59. I like the idea of ‘making your weakness your strength!’ I’ll try to remember that idea when giving critiques. If the writer doesn’t want to change it, then make it better!

    By Virginia Law Manning on November 14, 2014 at 9:49 am

  60. I appreciate learning about the research and vetting that goes into your books Barbara, and Congratulations! Good for you in turning the manuscript’s perceived “weakness” into the book’s strongest and most unique angle!

    By Cathy Ballou Mealey on November 14, 2014 at 9:53 am

  61. Oh how wonderful!
    Ms. Krasner didn’t think picture books were for her – and yet no one else could have written those stories, they needed to be told 🙂
    An enjoyable post.

    By Nancy Colle on November 14, 2014 at 9:58 am

  62. I like the idea of making your greatest weakness your strength as there is the greatest opportunity for improvement. Thank you!

    By Shirley Timberlake Fadden on November 14, 2014 at 10:00 am

  63. I was wondering how you move from interesting historical events to interesting picture book for kids.

    By Marla on November 14, 2014 at 10:02 am

  64. Thank you Barbara! Great post. I love historical fiction…maybe it is time to try my hand at it.

    By Joyce Tucker on November 14, 2014 at 10:02 am

  65. Thanks, Barbara, for an interesting and helpful post!

    By Annie Cronin Romano on November 14, 2014 at 10:04 am

  66. Thank you for sharing your inspiration and journey with us. 🙂

    By Jodi Moore on November 14, 2014 at 10:07 am

  67. I love the idea of using autobiographies as a starting point!

    By dsi1nyu on November 14, 2014 at 10:08 am

  68. Fabulous ideas here! I love the idea of using biographies to come up with historical fiction picture books. I am looking forward to reading about Golda!

    By alikotanko on November 14, 2014 at 10:17 am

  69. Thank you for your insight. I love the “Go with your gut” instructions. If it feels right, it is right. Sometimes it is hard to stick with what our heart tells us is best.

    By Tracey M. Cox on November 14, 2014 at 10:17 am

  70. It’s always helpful to hear how research is approached. Thank you!

    By Lauri Meyers on November 14, 2014 at 10:18 am

  71. Thank you for you insight. Happy creating. T

    By tanjabauerle on November 14, 2014 at 10:18 am

  72. I love reading biographical picture books to my children and wish there had been more of those read to me as a child. I cannot wait to read them your books! Thanks for the encouragement to keep working on an idea from different angles! Blessings!

    By kariail2013 on November 14, 2014 at 10:19 am

  73. Thanks for the informative article. It’s interesting how life has its own plans for us.

    By Zainab Khan on November 14, 2014 at 10:19 am

  74. Love biographies. Always interested in learning about others. Thanks for the tips.

    By Keila Dawson on November 14, 2014 at 10:20 am

  75. Mira Reisberg did a Monday’s with Mira video of Goldie Takes a Stand. It’s fabulous. Congrats.

    By jdewdropsofink on November 14, 2014 at 10:20 am

  76. I love history, so this is definitely worth a look for me. Trains are another interest, so maybe there is a picture book idea or two there. Thanks!

    By Tom Barrett on November 14, 2014 at 10:25 am

  77. I always love hearing the story behind the story. Thanks for sharing!

    By Jacqueline on November 14, 2014 at 10:28 am

  78. It’s rare to read about nonfiction picture books and the process of creating them. Thanks for sharing Barbara!

    By Sharifa on November 14, 2014 at 10:28 am

  79. I loved hearing about your journey! 🙂

    By Ashley Bohmer on November 14, 2014 at 10:32 am

  80. Great post. Both the advice about PB biographies and the details of the length of your journey. I love reading about a journey to publication that takes unexpected turns.

    By cmwritergirl23 on November 14, 2014 at 10:32 am

  81. During Mira Reisberg’s online course, GOLDIE TAKES A STAND! stood out as a great mentor text.

    By ManjuBeth on November 14, 2014 at 10:33 am

  82. I have some PB biography ideas but haven’t tackled any of them yet. Now you’ve inspired me to do so! Thanks for the information & congrats on your books!

    By rowenarae on November 14, 2014 at 10:34 am

  83. Thank you for your perspective!

    By tphumiruk on November 14, 2014 at 10:36 am

  84. Thanks so very much for your timely post, Barbara. You have provided validation for me on a PB project I’ve been struggling to move forward.
    So glad to know of Leisl’s Ocean Rescue coming out soon. CONGRATULATIONS!!! The story of the MS St. Louis is not nearly as well known as it should be!

    By Charlotte on November 14, 2014 at 10:40 am

  85. Finding the nugget. Easier said than done! Thanks for the post.

    By loriannlevyholm on November 14, 2014 at 10:41 am

  86. Thank you for sharing your process and insight into PB biographies. I wrote and illustrated my first pb biography that comes out next year. Although my editor steered me in the direction of exploring this genre, I surprisingly loved the journey, especially reading my subject’s autobiography and imagining retelling her story for kids. I am curious to write+illustrate more, and your post excites me. 🙂 Best to you!

    By jenny on November 14, 2014 at 10:41 am

  87. I love picture book biographies! Can’t wait to read yours.

    By Amy Harding on November 14, 2014 at 10:43 am

  88. Thanks for opening my eyes to something I never thought about.

    By Nina Haines on November 14, 2014 at 10:48 am

  89. You have a knack for finding interesting subjects and tracking down their stories. Congratulations on your new books!

    By Pat Miller on November 14, 2014 at 10:51 am

  90. Thank you, Barbara, for keeping history alive. Great post and great advice!

    By Stephanie Geckle (@SPGeckle) on November 14, 2014 at 10:52 am

  91. Amazing post, Barbara! It is right up my alley as I love historical fiction and have quite a few PIBoIdMo ideas that are biographies. One of them is a series of 4-5 books that all deal with some aspect of the same subject. I have done all the research but haven’t expanded the rough drafts as yet simply because the subject matter is very personal and I’m having trouble getting “the me” out of the picture.

    By saputnam on November 14, 2014 at 10:54 am

  92. THanks

    By Heather Steffens on November 14, 2014 at 10:54 am

  93. I love this post, Barbara! I am moving into creative nonfiction picture books and loved hearing about your own journey to publication. Thanks for sharing it with us…

    By Donna L Martin on November 14, 2014 at 10:54 am

  94. I love PBs that give kids a glimpse of what leaders were like when they were children. Such a great lesson…strong kids can become great leaders. (FYI I own a signed photo of Golda Meir. My father met her at Haddassa Hospital when he volunteered as a surgeon during the Yom Kippur War. I also have one of her cigarettes!) Can’t wait to read your books, Barbara. So inspiring!

    By Chana Stiefel on November 14, 2014 at 10:56 am

  95. Thanks for the interesting post!

    By Doreen E. Lepore on November 14, 2014 at 10:57 am

  96. I just recently heard a presentation by Alice McGinty (author of a couple picture book biographies). Combining your wisdom and advice with hers is really inspiring me to try my hand at one!

    By Dana Murphy on November 14, 2014 at 10:59 am

  97. “Liesl’s Ocean Rescue” sounds like an awesome book! 🙂 -Lily Stejskal

    By storyfairy on November 14, 2014 at 11:04 am

  98. I’m falling behind!!!!

    By tinawissner on November 14, 2014 at 11:05 am

  99. Thanks for the inspirational words.

    By katmaz2012 on November 14, 2014 at 11:07 am

  100. You’ve found a special niche that needed filling. Very interesting post! Thanks, Marty McCormick

    By Marty McCormick on November 14, 2014 at 11:08 am

  101. Picture book biographies are a great way to introduce history to the younger crowd. My girls will love your books!

    By Celeste Elbert on November 14, 2014 at 11:12 am

  102. Thanks – love how you stuck with Golda in first person because it felt right!

    By Dawn Young on November 14, 2014 at 11:13 am

  103. I first heard about “Goldie Takes A Stand” in one of the Children’s Book Academy courses. What a great book!! Thanks so much for your interesting post.

    By Alice Fulgione on November 14, 2014 at 11:14 am

  104. Great info!

    By kpbock on November 14, 2014 at 11:16 am

  105. Fascinating stories. Can’t wait to read them.

    By Elaine Costello on November 14, 2014 at 11:16 am

  106. Love PB Biographies! I’m also working on a few.

    By colleenr kosinski on November 14, 2014 at 11:17 am

  107. Thank you, Barbara. Your words are inspiring, and your advice is very valuable to me.

    By susandilldetwiler on November 14, 2014 at 11:22 am

  108. Thank you for sharing your post.

    By Anita Banks on November 14, 2014 at 11:23 am

  109. Your fifth point was an eye opener. Food for thought. I love the covers of your books.

    By Sherri Jones Rivers on November 14, 2014 at 11:24 am

  110. Very inspiring and I like your first suggestion of going with your gut. Thanks

    By Karen Brueggeman on November 14, 2014 at 11:34 am

  111. Fascinating and inspiring post. Thank you!

    By Nancy Armo on November 14, 2014 at 11:36 am

  112. So interesting how your story fell into place after switching to first person. Thanks for the insight, Barbara.

    By Lori Alexander on November 14, 2014 at 11:38 am

  113. I found your post very interesting. I have never tried writing non-fiction, though every once in a while a thought of doing it surfaces. If only I had a crystal ball to figure out my path to publishing.

    By Jim Chaize on November 14, 2014 at 11:44 am

  114. Thank you for your inspirational story. I look forward to reading your December release. I have factual information that I’ve been wanting to use for a picture book. I wasn’t sure how to go about it. You have given me ideas.

    By Dorothy Wiese on November 14, 2014 at 11:52 am

  115. “Go with your gut” is really great advice. Often we instinctively know what’s working and what’s not working, and we should honor that. Thanks for a look at your journey into PB writing!

    By Sandy Perlic on November 14, 2014 at 11:58 am

  116. Terrific advice! Thank you!

    By Nancy Ramsey on November 14, 2014 at 11:58 am

  117. Picture books are such a powerful way to introduce children to historical figures as well as important (and sometimes controversial) issues. I find them invaluable, both as a teacher and a parent. Thank you for this post, Barbara.

    By Teresa Daffern on November 14, 2014 at 12:00 pm

  118. Barbara, your stories are compelling.I like LIESL’S OCEAN RESCUE the best. Congratulations on finding your writing path, and thank you for the five pointers.

    By Pam Miller on November 14, 2014 at 12:02 pm

  119. Such an interesting insight into historical picture books – thanks for sharing.

    By McCourt on November 14, 2014 at 12:04 pm

  120. Barbara, thanks so much for sharing your story. I’ve read “Goldie takes a Stand” and loved it. I’m anxious to read your new book about Liesl. I think it’s so important to pass these stories on. Keep them coming!

    By Mary McClellan on November 14, 2014 at 12:06 pm

  121. Such a great lesson in fortitude. Thanks.

    By June Smalls on November 14, 2014 at 12:09 pm

  122. Interesting information to ponder. Thanks for sharing.

    By Janet Halfmann on November 14, 2014 at 12:11 pm

  123. I’ve been throwing around an idea for a non-fiction and you’ve given me an idea on how to approach it…many Thanks!

    By Donna Gwinnell Lambo-Weidner on November 14, 2014 at 12:18 pm

  124. I think historical fiction is such a great genre. The topics are endless.
    Thanks for taking time to post for us..

    By Cindy S on November 14, 2014 at 12:22 pm

  125. Terrific info. I’ve not heard before…Thanks Barbara!

    By thislittlebirdie on November 14, 2014 at 12:22 pm

  126. Barbara, thanks for sharing your writing/publishing journey. I’ve never thought of writing a biography, until today. Thanks for your time and encouragement.

    By Beth Blee on November 14, 2014 at 12:24 pm

  127. This was a good post. I’m still not sure I understand why you shouldn’t write a biography if there’s no autobiography? I’m tired, maybe I just missed something. But I love the message of STICKING TO IT…so important… I am often worried about inventing dialogue for a REAL person. I don’t know why that is…but you have motivated me to try more! Thank you.

    By orthodoxmom3 on November 14, 2014 at 12:24 pm

  128. Thanks for the tips! One of my favorite ideas on my list is a historical fiction picture book, so your insights are helpful.

    By Carrie Tillotson on November 14, 2014 at 12:25 pm

  129. I had never considered writing a historical fiction picture book, but the idea of getting inside the head of such an important figure is certainly intriguing!

    By BLAHM on November 14, 2014 at 12:28 pm

  130. I completely agree with “Go with your gut.” Sometimes I am hesitant to change something in my story, but it just doesn’t feel right. So I take a chance and change it because I can always reverse the change, and almost always I go with the change. So going with your gut is always the right thing to do. Thanks for the post.

    By Sandy Powell on November 14, 2014 at 12:29 pm

  131. This was an interesting post. Thank you for sharing your process and about the effort and patience it took to get your work out there. This is encouraging to not give up and to trust your own writing and ‘gut.’ – Lynn A. Davidson

    By Lynn on November 14, 2014 at 12:31 pm

  132. Thank you Barbara for this interesting post. You have strengthened my determination to find my expertise in writing.

    By Rita Allmon on November 14, 2014 at 12:31 pm

  133. I love doing research. Biographies would also be something for me. How do you get people to open up to you and do if you vet a manuscript, do you pay the person who’s involved?

    By Priya on November 14, 2014 at 12:37 pm

  134. Fascinating. I never would have thought to write a biography in first person.

    By Judy Cox on November 14, 2014 at 12:38 pm

  135. I admire how you took your weakness and used it as a strength! Great words of wisdom. The fact that even though the stories are fictionalized, they are based on real events. Wonderful and inspirational! Thank you for sharing your time with us!

    By Kelly Vavala on November 14, 2014 at 12:38 pm

  136. Barbara thanks for sharing the helpful tips. I love historical picture books..Can’t wait to read your pb about gold a Meir.

    By Therese Nagi on November 14, 2014 at 12:43 pm

  137. Thank you for sharing. I have often thought about writing kids historical fiction but have never started one.

    By Nicole Turner on November 14, 2014 at 12:43 pm

  138. “Go with your gut” seems to be something I’ll never stop relearning. Always true, always forgotten. Thanks!

    By Cassandra Federman on November 14, 2014 at 12:43 pm

  139. How very interesting! Thanks for inspiring me!

    By Amy Houts on November 14, 2014 at 12:46 pm

  140. Thanks for the inspiring post. I love your books and appreciate the advice!

    By Meridth Gimbel on November 14, 2014 at 12:55 pm

  141. I love PB biographies. Thank you for sharing the importance of sticking to guns in a story.

    By sherry alexander on November 14, 2014 at 12:57 pm

  142. It’s interesting to make a weakness a strength. You went with your gut on that one, huh? 🙂

    By Carrie Charley Brown on November 14, 2014 at 12:58 pm

  143. A great post, Barbara! It gave me a new direction to try sometime as I enjoy PB biographies..

    By Barbara Cairns on November 14, 2014 at 1:00 pm

  144. I love your five absolute truths, Barbara. Can’t wait to take a peek at Goldie Takes a Stand.

    By Patricia Toht on November 14, 2014 at 1:02 pm

  145. Thanks, Barbara, for the encouragement to go with your gut and to never give up!

    By gabisnyder on November 14, 2014 at 1:02 pm

  146. Thank you for opening my eyes to the perfect story I’ve never thought of!

    By Leslie Raith on November 14, 2014 at 1:03 pm

  147. Thanks, Barbara thanks for all the helpful advice. Make a weakness a strength is great to know. Love the cover for “Liesl’s Ocean Rescue”

    By Naana Kyereboah on November 14, 2014 at 1:07 pm

  148. Thanks for sharing your experience and tips. You’ve given us all a lot to think about! Looking forward to reading your books!

    By Bethany Roberts on November 14, 2014 at 1:08 pm

  149. I enjoyed reading how you came about writing picture books. Very interesting. I also like how you tell us to turn what others see as weaknesses into strengths. Your books look very neat. I need to read them. Thank you for taking the time to write this post. I enjoyed it.

    By Ashley Bankhead on November 14, 2014 at 1:10 pm

  150. Isn’t it interesting how something so unexpected can come along while you’re focusing on something else? Good reminder to always keep your mind open to other projects that can sneak up on you when you’re not looking. Thanks for a great post!

    By Susie Sawyer on November 14, 2014 at 1:12 pm

  151. Thanks Barbara! Trust the muse (gut) – it wants the best for us! 👍

    By Vicki Wilke on November 14, 2014 at 1:13 pm

  152. Barbara, you’re an inspiration! I read and reread your post–studying every word. Thanks for sharing what you’ve learned.

    By kathydoherty1 on November 14, 2014 at 1:21 pm

  153. Yet another helpful, writing tactic to absorb when writing any kind of story for children. Editing is your best friend. Starting w/1400 words! Curious about the final word count. Thank you Barbara.

    By Matt Tesoriero on November 14, 2014 at 1:25 pm

  154. Inspiring post, Barbara! Thanks for sharing your journey and absolute truths.

    By LovableLobo on November 14, 2014 at 1:29 pm

  155. Thank you for sharing. I have entertained the idea of writing NF PBs.

    By klmcmorranmaus on November 14, 2014 at 1:31 pm

  156. Golda sounds like a golden picture book bio. I write pb bios, too, and your list will definitely help me! TY for the useful information, especially “go w/your gut.” It was your insistence on 1st person that made the story stand out, BRAVO.

    By kathalsey on November 14, 2014 at 1:31 pm

  157. I, too, write creative nonfiction, where the facts are true, but the dialog is created. I was happy to read about your experiences with this genre.

    By Doris Fisher on November 14, 2014 at 1:31 pm

  158. I love historical picture books! How terrific that you made a historical picture book, I definitely will have to check that out. You’ve given some wonderful advice and inspiration, thank you!

    By Jabeen on November 14, 2014 at 1:37 pm

  159. Isn’t it fascinating how we often think we’re headed one direction, but end up on another path! Thanks, Barbara.

    By Janny J Johnson on November 14, 2014 at 1:40 pm

  160. It’s always wonderful to learn from another writer’s journey! I look forward to reading your books!

    By kirsticall on November 14, 2014 at 1:51 pm

  161. I actually have a few NF ideas this year, so this is very helpful. Thanks!

    By Carrie Finison on November 14, 2014 at 1:58 pm

  162. Your tips are deeply appreciated. You are an inspiration for us. Thanks for the great share. I guess I will continue with the editing process due to your encouraging tips.

    By Sandie Sing on November 14, 2014 at 2:00 pm

  163. thanks for the suggestions… all helpful. I’ve been oscillating on 1st and third person on a few ms for that very reason. I’ll just write both and chose it the BEST way.

    By Aidan Cassie on November 14, 2014 at 2:03 pm

  164. Oh, yay, thanks for discussing how to add dialog to a historical person when you have no quotes. I can make is historical fiction! Thanks so much! And congratulations on the Goldie and Liesl books; I cannot wait to read both.

    By Rosie Taylor on November 14, 2014 at 2:07 pm

  165. Looking forward to reading your books, Barbara! Like the idea of vetting your books! Thank you for the good tips!

    By Janie Reinart on November 14, 2014 at 2:09 pm

  166. I love the go with your gut advice! Sometimes we just need to trust ourselves and believe in our book. Thanks for the inspiration.

    By Carol Nelson on November 14, 2014 at 2:11 pm

  167. Your post has been so helpful, since I am writing historical fiction as well. I have gut feelings, too, even after my manuscripts have been professionally critiqued. It’s difficult sometimes. I will have to looking into vetting as well. Thanks for your suggestions, Barbara!!

    By Jarm Del Boccio on November 14, 2014 at 2:14 pm

  168. How timely this post is as I just came up with my first NF PB idea yesterday!

    By Mary Jo Wagner on November 14, 2014 at 2:18 pm

  169. Wow! What a fascinating post. Such a brave approach to a picture book, and so appealing to young readers as well. Thank you.

    By Norma on November 14, 2014 at 2:19 pm

  170. What a difference POV can make! Thank you for a truly inspiring post.

    By Laura Rackham on November 14, 2014 at 2:30 pm

  171. What great suggestions. Love to hear the story behind NF story.

    By angelapadron on November 14, 2014 at 2:32 pm

  172. I love biographies, and really good ones are being published now. I’ve added this to my list and will search for possible candidates to write about. Thanks.

    By Jennifer Sommer on November 14, 2014 at 2:45 pm

  173. Fantastic entry, thanks! I have yet to work on amy NF ideas, so this is very inspiring.

    By Amelia Gossman on November 14, 2014 at 2:52 pm

  174. Barbara, thank you for all your great advice today. I’m looking forward to reading your books and sharing them with my son, who loves historical fiction. Congratulations on your publications and thanks for the inspiration!

    By carolynscombs on November 14, 2014 at 2:53 pm

  175. Thanks for sharing! Yesterday’s idea quickly became my obsession for the day, which developed into research and then several hooks to begin my story. As I progressed, though, I kept telling my self I can’t just invent the dialogue! But if I change the genre, I guess I can do whatever I want 🙂

    By Shena Ashcraft on November 14, 2014 at 2:55 pm

  176. Very unique. Love your 5 tips too!

    By Pauline Johnson on November 14, 2014 at 2:56 pm

  177. Thanks for the tips on how to approach PB biographies! I’ve written one so far (and am crossing my fingers on it finding a home) but I hope to write more in the future because there are so many historical figures that I would love to learn about myself.

    By teresarobeson on November 14, 2014 at 3:02 pm

  178. I love picture book biographies and enjoyed reading about your approach. Thanks for the interesting insights — and good luck with those YA novels too . . . under my bed is MG historical fiction!

    By Christy Mihaly on November 14, 2014 at 3:02 pm

  179. An encouraging and eye-opening post. Loved Goldie Takes a Stand! Golda Meir’s First Crusade and thank you, Barbara, for planting the nonfiction seed in me.

    By Ronna Mandel on November 14, 2014 at 3:03 pm

  180. Barbara always has something interesting to say. Both her books are wonderful. Everyone should read them.

    By Rosi Hollinbeck on November 14, 2014 at 3:11 pm

  181. I am so interested in historical fiction picture books… thanks for writing about them!

    By Michelle O'Hara Levin on November 14, 2014 at 3:11 pm

  182. What important and wonderful stories to share!

    By Rebecca on November 14, 2014 at 3:20 pm

  183. Historical fiction. I really like this type of picture book. Thanks Barbara for telling us your experience. I will help me to persevere in what I am dreaming of… “present day fiction” – I am encourage by your post

    By Isabelle Barth on November 14, 2014 at 3:21 pm

  184. Thank your inspirational story! I will look for your books.

    By Viji on November 14, 2014 at 3:24 pm

  185. Interesting research with the result of some great books. REally enjoy Goldie Takes a STand…

    By Jay Polowski on November 14, 2014 at 3:24 pm

  186. I love the idea of writing an Historical PB! Thanks for your inspiration!

    By csschwarz on November 14, 2014 at 3:25 pm

  187. Something different, thank you for sharing! Great advice!

    By Jennifer Huls on November 14, 2014 at 3:32 pm

  188. Thanks for sharing your experiences!

    By Jon Blauvelt on November 14, 2014 at 3:33 pm

  189. Sounds like you have some fascinating stories!

    By Kristen Foote on November 14, 2014 at 3:35 pm

  190. What fabulous advice! Thank you for this post. I am thinking of so many wonderful stories that can be written this way.

    By Traci Sorell on November 14, 2014 at 3:44 pm

  191. Barbara, thank you for sharing your process with us. I very much appreciate writers of picture book biographies. These books can be fascinating inroads to understanding the human side of history. My 8 year old daughter can’t get enough of them…so please keep them coming.

    By hethfeth on November 14, 2014 at 3:44 pm

  192. You have opened a whole new world. very interesting

    By Carolyn Rohrbaugh on November 14, 2014 at 3:49 pm

  193. Thanks for sharing and for your advice!

    By Daryl Gottier on November 14, 2014 at 3:52 pm

  194. It’s always so interesting to learn of other writers’ journeys. Thanks so much for sharing this.

    By Karen Calloway on November 14, 2014 at 3:54 pm

  195. Barbara, Thank you for sharing your informative post.

    By Doris Stone on November 14, 2014 at 3:55 pm

  196. Fiction vs nonfiction is such a tangled topic when it comes to pb biographies! Thanks for sharing your story.

    By Laura Purdie Salas on November 14, 2014 at 3:57 pm

  197. A very hearty mazel tov, Barbara! I can’t wait to read the PB versions of Goldie and Liesl, and your other books that I’m sure will be on their way. :0)

    By LeslieG on November 14, 2014 at 4:12 pm

  198. How interesting. Picture book biographies don’t seem very popular in the UK. Can’t remember having seen any here.

    By arihoma on November 14, 2014 at 4:21 pm

  199. wow, so interesting to hear how these books were born the way they were. Lots to consider. Thanks, Barbara!

    By Jane Heitman Healy on November 14, 2014 at 4:25 pm

  200. Picture books are important for so many reasons … and making historical characters accessible to young readers is one very important reason. Kudos!

    By stephseclecticinterests on November 14, 2014 at 4:35 pm

  201. Barbara, thanks for sharing your perspectives on writing picture books based on true events. Very interesting!

    By Sherry Walz on November 14, 2014 at 4:41 pm

  202. Loved reading this, thanks for the advice!

    By winemama on November 14, 2014 at 4:50 pm

  203. great idea suggestion!

    By emilie288 on November 14, 2014 at 5:02 pm

  204. Love, love, love PB biographies. Great post!

    By Debra Shumaker on November 14, 2014 at 5:11 pm

  205. You never know where your stories are going to take you. This gives me encouragement to keep following my gut, even when it seems like my stories are never going to get out there. Thank you!

    By Laurie L Young on November 14, 2014 at 5:12 pm

  206. I would also like to try writing fictional biographies.

    By Anne Lei-Yeung So on November 14, 2014 at 5:13 pm

  207. I am working on a historical based book based on letters and diaries, but was thinking adult or possibly MG/YA, never considered it as a PB. Food for thought. Thanx!

    By Stephen S. Martin on November 14, 2014 at 5:31 pm

  208. Great advice. Thanks!

    By Christine M. Irvin on November 14, 2014 at 5:31 pm

  209. Thank you for the advice Barbara. It has challenged me to rethink what I consider a weakness.

    By KASteed on November 14, 2014 at 5:38 pm

  210. Thanks for the post and the insight into writing biographies.

    By l8k8 on November 14, 2014 at 5:51 pm

  211. I love historical picture books. Thanks for sharing!

    By katiemillsgiorgio on November 14, 2014 at 5:54 pm

  212. Lovely! Thank you!

    By Marcy P. on November 14, 2014 at 6:07 pm

  213. The wheel’s are turning … thanks!

    By Karen A on November 14, 2014 at 6:19 pm

  214. Great tips, Barbara; I wrote them down! However, I must say that I skidded on #5. :0)

    By Donna L. Sadd on November 14, 2014 at 6:26 pm

  215. Thanks for your great advice, Barbara! And thanks for sharing the stories of the two manuscripts. I absolutely love hearing how ideas for stories came to an author and then how they were developed.

    By Penny Parker Klostermann on November 14, 2014 at 6:30 pm

  216. Thanks for the advice, Barbara.

    By sardyhar on November 14, 2014 at 6:31 pm

  217. POP! Two more ideas while reading this post. 🙂 This month is rockin’!

    By JEN Garrett on November 14, 2014 at 6:32 pm

  218. This is my first PiBoIdMo, and I have to admit that when I read these blog entries and see just how MANY people are commenting, I begin to think, “There are just too many people writing children’s books! How am I ever going to make it in this field?! And then I’m reminded, by posts like this one, that there is a niche for everyone. No one else but Barbara could write a first person picture book about Golda Meir! And no one else is going to write the books that I’m writing, either. Thank you for sharing your work, Barbara!

    By Andrea Poppleton on November 14, 2014 at 6:36 pm

  219. Really interesting!! I look forward to reading your books! Thank you! 🙂

    By Jill Siegel on November 14, 2014 at 6:41 pm

  220. Kudos to you, Barbara, for following your intuition and for making ti work!

    By Patricia Saunders on November 14, 2014 at 6:43 pm

  221. Thanks, I love first person for picture books.

    By daynesislendesign on November 14, 2014 at 6:48 pm

  222. Thx for sharing the journey, and especially the wisdom “make weakness a strength”. Good words. Much hope and encouragement!

    By Deborah Patz on November 14, 2014 at 6:49 pm

  223. Thanks so much for sharing your story, Barbara! I’ve had a few biography ideas myself… it’s time to get moving on them!

    By melinda beavers on November 14, 2014 at 7:02 pm

  224. Thanks for sharing, Barbara! How neat to see the PB format stretched into biography.

    By Stephan Stuecklin on November 14, 2014 at 7:05 pm

  225. Goldie sounds like a wonderful book! Can’t wait to read it!

    By John Strong on November 14, 2014 at 7:07 pm

  226. I hadn’t thought about NF at all, until I read your post this morning. Now my latest idea is NF!

    By erikammon on November 14, 2014 at 7:23 pm

  227. Thank you so much, Barbara! As a fellow VCFA grad and biographer, I loved hearing about your writing journey and advice.

    By tpierce on November 14, 2014 at 7:29 pm

  228. I loved reading your story, Barbara. It is inspiring to hear that if you stick with something, success follows!
    If I should win this giveaway, please write a note inside the book to the Little Free Library, Walnut, CA and I will read it before sharing it with others.

    By Nicole Popel on November 14, 2014 at 7:47 pm

  229. I love books that uncover inspiring historical characters and make them accessible to children. Thank you!

    By laura516 on November 14, 2014 at 7:54 pm

  230. Thanks for the different view – will look forward to adding some new ideas now!

    By Author Ashley Howland on November 14, 2014 at 8:00 pm

  231. I love adult historical fiction so this idea of historical fiction picture books is very appealing. Thanks for sharing your experiences. Very good post.

    By Mary Zychowicz on November 14, 2014 at 8:03 pm

  232. Enjoyed reading your post. Like the connection of PB’s and history.

    By Jenifer McNamara on November 14, 2014 at 8:07 pm

  233. I was so glad to read about your approach to writing historical fiction picture books. How wonderful to be able to write a great story and include all those elements used in fiction while still have that non-fiction truth. I am looking forward to reading Goldie Takes a Stand.

    By Yvonne Mes on November 14, 2014 at 8:10 pm

  234. So glad a “tease” turned out to be your work! Good for you – and for sticking to your guns once you had them loaded the way you believed in.

    By cantsing1 on November 14, 2014 at 8:11 pm

  235. Great tips!

    By Kathy Johnson on November 14, 2014 at 8:15 pm

  236. Thank you for sharing your journey and for the great tips!

    By donnacangelosi on November 14, 2014 at 8:25 pm

  237. Thank you so much for sharing this great post! 🙂

    By lbouck09 on November 14, 2014 at 8:35 pm

  238. Very helpful, thanks!

    By Lisa Robinson on November 14, 2014 at 8:37 pm

  239. Love biographies! And appreciate your advice to not write a biography on someone who has not written an autobiography. That does leave out a few really interesting historical people!

    By Kathleen on November 14, 2014 at 8:42 pm

  240. I love that you found something new that kids could relate to about Golda, and it’s something that has to do with her character later in life. So very cool! Thanks for sharing.

    By jshaklan on November 14, 2014 at 9:05 pm

  241. Wonderful post! I have been wanting to write a PB biography about my great grandmother and an event that occurred when she was a girl. These were all very helpful pointers. Thank you!!

    By Maria Oka on November 14, 2014 at 9:21 pm

  242. wonderful advice and encouraging about the YA books still on hold under the bed!

    By Hayley Gudgin on November 14, 2014 at 9:30 pm

  243. I love that you stuck to the first person. Thanks for the inspiration!

    By Cindy Greene on November 14, 2014 at 9:38 pm

  244. “Go with your gut”…great advice!

    By Buffy Silverman on November 14, 2014 at 10:18 pm

  245. Thanks for your great advice!:)

    By seschipper on November 14, 2014 at 10:37 pm

  246. I’m envious of people who write anything even close to nonfiction. I like reading PB biographies, but have never tried writing one. Great tip list. Thanks.

    By Genevieve Petrillo on November 14, 2014 at 10:48 pm

  247. Thank you for sharing your process. I am also working on nonfiction projects so your insight was very helpful.

    By Angela Turner on November 14, 2014 at 10:56 pm

  248. Great advice, thanks!

    By Amanda Hopper on November 14, 2014 at 11:02 pm

  249. Thanks for sharing I have a non-fiction idea rolling around in my head. Maybe i should try and get it out 🙂

    By writeknit on November 14, 2014 at 11:07 pm

  250. My favorite part of your post was “go with your gut-if something doesn’t feel right, change it.” True in writing and in life. Thanks for the words of inspiration!

    By Susan Schade on November 14, 2014 at 11:13 pm

  251. So many more subject ideas! I need more than a month!

    By Freckled Daisy Creations on November 14, 2014 at 11:18 pm

  252. I have a biography in mind and after a few rejections, I’ve been thinking of a few different ways to present it. Thanks for the advice and looking forward to read you books

    By Hélène Sabourin on November 14, 2014 at 11:34 pm

  253. I’m more of a fiction writer, but I really appreciate some of your tips such as “Go with your Gut!” Thanks for sharing!

    By Maria Bostian on November 14, 2014 at 11:39 pm

  254. Dear Barbara: I enjoyed this post and will look forward to reading your historical fiction books.

    By shiela fuller on November 14, 2014 at 11:47 pm

  255. What an interesting journey from YA to PB!

    By Juliana Lee on November 15, 2014 at 12:26 am

  256. I discovered your book about Golda just this September, Barbara, at a Highlights workshop, and love it. You make me want to “find” a story right now! Thank you!

    By Linda Baie on November 15, 2014 at 12:27 am

  257. Autobiographical picture books!! brilliant and inspiring!

    By barbswright on November 15, 2014 at 12:31 am

  258. Love Highlights workshops! Will have to check out these PBs!

    By Meghan Daniels on November 15, 2014 at 1:03 am

  259. This was incredibly interesting and helpful! I love historical fiction and picture books so I’m very interested in your process. Thanks for sharing!

    By angiekarcher on November 15, 2014 at 1:09 am

  260. Great post! Thanks!

    By danielledufayet on November 15, 2014 at 2:43 am

  261. thanks for showing me how a true story can begin a PB especially one about histories that need to be remembered

    By Sharon Giltrow on November 15, 2014 at 3:50 am

  262. Hard work and dedication never fail. Go with with your gut is the phrase of the day. Thanks for sharing.

    By aliciaminor on November 15, 2014 at 7:08 am

  263. Thanks for your tips on historical fiction. I’ve got an idea I’d like to develop. Your tips came a the perfect time.

    By Louann Brown on November 15, 2014 at 9:12 am

  264. Thanks for opening new insight to other ways to write picture books. Non Fiction is a whole new idea for me.

    By Sheri Rad on November 15, 2014 at 9:17 am

  265. Many words of wisdom. Several of my manuscripts will benefit.

    By Sue Poduska on November 15, 2014 at 9:19 am

  266. I keep thinking that one day I’ll write a biography. There are so many fascinating historical figures I’d like to spotlight. Maybe this will be the year I actually do it. 🙂

    By Veronica Bartles on November 15, 2014 at 10:01 am

  267. Your story of persistence that eventually paid off is inspiring for all of us!

    By Joan Waites on November 15, 2014 at 10:34 am

  268. Thank you, Barbara. This was most useful.

    By The World Is My Cuttlefish on November 15, 2014 at 10:45 am

  269. Thanks for the great post!

    By Elizabeth Brown on November 15, 2014 at 10:49 am

  270. Thanks for sharing your journey!

    By danielle hammelef on November 15, 2014 at 11:29 am

  271. Thank you for sharing your ideas and tips. “Keep trying”, that I need to hear and keep to heart.

    By Heather Kelso on November 15, 2014 at 11:57 am

  272. I always wondered how to fill in the details when you only have a few facts.

    By Nadine Gamble on November 15, 2014 at 12:08 pm

  273. Barbara, thank you for that excellent advice.

    By Micki Ginsberg on November 15, 2014 at 12:50 pm

  274. Love reading (and writing!) historical fiction! Thanks for sharing a peek at your process.

    By Caroline on November 15, 2014 at 1:10 pm

  275. I’m interested in writing and illustrating a historical fiction PB and appreciate your insights. I’m going to post “If something doesn’t feel quite right, change it” above my desk!

    By Carrie O'Neill on November 15, 2014 at 1:35 pm

  276. LOVED Goldie Takes a Stand! Definitely have a few PB bios/historical fiction ideas on the back burner (WAY back!) – will bring them closer to the front for sure this weekend – and get them in my PiBo notebook! Thanks!

    By Joanne Sher on November 15, 2014 at 1:40 pm

  277. A fascinating journey, Barbara! Thank you for sharing what you learned along the way.

    By Tracy Molitors on November 15, 2014 at 2:00 pm

  278. Fantastic story about making stories happen. Excellent advice. Thank you, Barbara.

    By Frances Brown on November 15, 2014 at 2:55 pm

  279. Thank you Barbara. Your story may go down in historical fiction too one day 🙂

    By Kira Kia Fruit Nims on November 15, 2014 at 3:33 pm

  280. Thanks for sharing your tips.

    By angeladegroot8 on November 15, 2014 at 4:04 pm

  281. I have been drawn to historical fiction and non-fiction myself. Your path and decisions to follow your heart rather than the “rules” was very informative, thank you.

    By Kathryn Ault Noble on November 15, 2014 at 4:40 pm

  282. I liked the “make your weakness a strength” encouragement … makes me see my limitations in a new way. Thanks!

    By Jen Carroll on November 15, 2014 at 6:51 pm

  283. Thank you for sharing your touching story.

    By melsul09 on November 15, 2014 at 7:22 pm

  284. Thank you so much, Barbara. You’ve clarified so simply what historical fiction is and is not. I’m working on a story that I felt needed to be historical fiction, but I was trying to make it creative non-fiction…I will ‘go with my gut’…thanks to you…and change it because it just doesn’t feel right. 🙂 Great story…and great advice!

    By viviankirkfield on November 15, 2014 at 8:20 pm

  285. Thanks for sharing your story and for another “take” – I think so many forget about nonfiction when it comes to PBs. I also liked “make a weakness a strength” and to never give up. 🙂

    By Tracy on November 15, 2014 at 9:13 pm

  286. Thank you Barbara, for taking the time to write, and to offer your professional advice.

    By M.A. Bentz on November 15, 2014 at 9:25 pm

  287. I enjoyed hearing what you have to say about historical fiction. I’ve had a couple ideas on the back burner for a while now. Thank you for your post, Barbara!

    By wendymyersart on November 15, 2014 at 9:48 pm

  288. Great post, Barbara, and do you know—in the many years I’m involved with kidlit, this is the first time I heard the word “vet/vetted.” Thank you for that! 🙂

    By writersideup on November 15, 2014 at 10:09 pm

  289. I enjoy historical fiction. Thanks for sharing your story with us.

    By billiesgirl on November 15, 2014 at 11:14 pm

  290. What a great way to make history more personal for kids. Thanks!

    By Meredith Pinkstone on November 15, 2014 at 11:58 pm

  291. Attempting picture book historical fiction is a goal for me. You have inspired me with your post Barbara. Thanks! I’ll be looking for your Golda Meir story.

    By SevenAcreSky on November 16, 2014 at 12:00 am

  292. Thank-you. Most of my ideas from last year’s PiBoIdMo were historical fiction or biography. It’s a very exciting genre.

    By Joanne Roberts on November 16, 2014 at 12:29 am

  293. Your picture books sound wonderful! Hurray for a fellow VCFA grad!

    By Rachel Smoka-Richardson on November 16, 2014 at 1:55 am

  294. I’m working on something that is fiction based on a real person, Barbara so I loved this post.

    By Kaye Baillie on November 16, 2014 at 3:10 am

  295. Can’t wait to read about Liesel’s story. Love your determination! Thanks for posting.

    By Kathy Cornell Berman on November 16, 2014 at 9:49 am

  296. Looking forward to reading Liesel’s story!

    By calisue on November 16, 2014 at 11:02 am

  297. Loved your post! I keep coming up with ideas for picture books that are based on true events or facts, but the manuscripts have been falling flat. I like the idea of putting the story into 1st person so it is more appealing to children. Thank you.

    By DaNeil on November 16, 2014 at 12:03 pm

  298. I ,too, am attracted to true stories and I love your idea of first person story telling. I can’t imagine it in picture book form… I am now looking into buying your books and modeling stories after yours. Thank you so much! 🙂

    By Karen Lawler on November 16, 2014 at 12:19 pm

  299. Thanks for sharing your process! a : )

    By Andi on November 16, 2014 at 12:53 pm

  300. Thanks for sharing what you have learned. Enjoyed reading about the steps you took in your writing process. Thanks for sharing your post. I enjoyed reading it.

    By shirley johnson on November 16, 2014 at 1:08 pm

  301. Thanks for your inspiring words.

    By Shirley Menendez on November 16, 2014 at 1:17 pm

  302. I love the “make weakness a strength”. They say that a lot in tv shows and movies. Either the villain says It about the hero, or vice versa. Traits can go either or both ways like that.

    By Jessica on November 16, 2014 at 1:59 pm

  303. Thanks for this great post. At one point I was researching for a beginning reader biography, but it has been shelved, lo, these many years. Your post inspires me to go back to that research and see what I can pull out of there for a picture book biography!

    By writingcygnet on November 16, 2014 at 2:59 pm

  304. Longer picture books are GREAT! And especially ones that illuminate historical events for young readers. So very needed!

    By Kara Stewart on November 16, 2014 at 3:41 pm

  305. Barbara: As an educator, biographical picture books supported many history lessons in my classroom. Thank you for your words of encouragement. The words, “make weakness a strength,” resonates with me. ~Suzy Leopold

    By Prairie Garden Girl on November 16, 2014 at 6:17 pm

  306. Picture book biographies are a perfect way to create interest in the longer biographies. Thanks for sharing your process in finding the right mini story to tell.

    By Judith Snyder on November 16, 2014 at 6:26 pm

  307. Barbara, thank you for the inspiration. I have a special topic of interest that I am passionate about. I am going to see if there are possibilities for some truthful picture books in my future!

    By Dianne Burch on November 16, 2014 at 6:34 pm

  308. Thank you, Barbara. I’m working on a historical MG novel and am wondering if I can take a tiny piece of this story and make it into a picture book. Thank you for the idea!

    By Debbie Austin on November 16, 2014 at 8:17 pm

  309. Thanks so much for sharing! Our 2nd graders study famous Wisconsinites, so I know this book will be a great resource for them.

    By thelogonauts on November 16, 2014 at 10:22 pm

  310. Thank you for the advice!

    By Anna Levin on November 16, 2014 at 11:29 pm

  311. Thank you for your expertise. I am very interested in stories that are from true events!

    By gasamie on November 17, 2014 at 3:27 am

  312. What determination and dedication. Very inspiring post.

    By Joan Kassmann on November 17, 2014 at 6:47 am

  313. thank you!!!

    By artistadonna on November 17, 2014 at 7:01 am

  314. This post is wonderful! Most of my ideas this month have been for biographies, and that’s something I’m excited to explore. Thanks for the inspiration!

    By Erin O'Brien on November 17, 2014 at 8:22 am

  315. Having two girls, I love books that empower women – Thanks! 🙂

    By Donna Rossman on November 17, 2014 at 10:11 am

  316. Inspiring! Thanks for your post

    By Maria J Cuesta on November 17, 2014 at 10:59 am

  317. Such amazing stories to share! Thanks!

    By Jill Tadros (@PopTheWall) on November 17, 2014 at 11:43 am

  318. It is hard to take a person’s life story and put dialogue in. That is what makes it fiction.

    By nitacouch on November 17, 2014 at 12:34 pm

  319. I admire your dedication and am inspired by your process of writing about Golda. I love visiting your blog, The Whole Megillah!

    By Lori Dubbin on November 17, 2014 at 2:20 pm

  320. Thank you!

    By Emily Goldstein on November 17, 2014 at 2:27 pm

  321. Thanks for your work. I look forward to reading your books!

    By Sandi Lawson on November 17, 2014 at 4:41 pm

  322. So glad these stories are being written and published. They are so fascinating to read and important to the education of our children.

    By teresa m.i. schaefer (@TMISchaefer) on November 17, 2014 at 4:57 pm

  323. Wow, this looks like a great book. Thanks for sharing some of the process that it took to get there!

    By Lauren Soloy on November 17, 2014 at 5:40 pm

  324. Thanks for sharing your process. I’m going to have to go back through these posts and write down everyone’s books. I’ll see if I can find them at the library. I could never afford to by them all. I have to weed out my children’s book library, as it is. I’ll definitely check yours out, I’ve been wanting to write something historical. Thanks for the insight.

    By Marge Gower on November 17, 2014 at 7:46 pm

  325. Thank you for the encouragement to write the way that feels right.

    By Sydney O'Neill on November 17, 2014 at 9:00 pm

  326. That was so inspiring! Thanks Barbara. Can’t wait to read these stories.

    By kmshelley on November 17, 2014 at 9:45 pm

  327. Great post! I love the advice about making your weakness your strength. Congrats on you success!

    By Jamie Deenihan on November 17, 2014 at 10:28 pm

  328. Good for you sticking with your gut! Good to remember we have to write our story, not someone else’s. Love reading about your process! Thank you! 😀

    By megmillerwrites on November 17, 2014 at 10:29 pm

  329. Thank you for sharing your experience. I really like the genre of historical fiction. In fact, one of my PiBo ideas this year is based on a historical figure. Great post and congrats on your success!

    By Loni Edwards (@LoniEdwards) on November 18, 2014 at 3:49 am

  330. Thanks Barbara for your inspiring post!

    By Nat Keller on November 18, 2014 at 5:47 am

  331. Thank you for sharing your process. First person “biography” is an interesting take.

    By Shari Della Penna on November 18, 2014 at 10:11 am

  332. A working really complicated. Formation is required, even for illustrated books. Although many believe otherwise. Congratulations.

    By Alberto Martín "NiñoCactus" on November 18, 2014 at 11:06 am

  333. Listen to your gut! That advice never gets old.

    By Jennifer DuBose on November 18, 2014 at 2:04 pm

  334. Barbara, I have written some manuscripts in first person and feel that it can really make the voice stand out. I’m glad to read your tips and hear you advocate for using the voice that works best to tell the story.

    By Melanie Ellsworth on November 18, 2014 at 2:45 pm

  335. Your post came at a perfect time for me. I love biographies. Thank you.

    By Claire Vita on November 18, 2014 at 3:23 pm

  336. Thanks for your post, Barbara! Picture book biographies seem like a great way to introduce interesting historical figures to even the youngest readers. Very cool!

    By Holly Ruppel on November 20, 2014 at 12:04 am

  337. Thanks for sharing your process. I’m saving your post for future reference.

    By Cathy Biggerstaff on November 20, 2014 at 10:33 pm

  338. I can’t wait to read Goldie Takes a Stand! Thank you for your post! -MK O’Keefe

    By mkokeefe on November 21, 2014 at 11:56 am

  339. These are great tips!

    Thank you for sharing the back story about how your Golda Meir book came to be. I cannot wait to read it!

    By Stacey Shubitz on November 23, 2014 at 12:11 pm

  340. Thank you for sharing your experience and wisdom.

    By natalie15 on November 23, 2014 at 2:01 pm

  341. Thanks for the post. I loved my time at the Highlights Foundation workshop and meeting nonfiction editor Debra Hess.

    By Rick Starkey on November 23, 2014 at 9:08 pm

  342. Thanks, I will make use of all your important points! I would love to write a biography in the future.

    By rdvanhorn on November 25, 2014 at 5:37 am

  343. Fascinating story and some great tips!

    By Kimberly Sprinkles Cowger on November 25, 2014 at 5:24 pm

  344. I’m so glad you went with your instinct and used 1st person and why you did. I look forward to checking out both of these books.
    Thanks for sharing your insights.
    Lynn

    By zebrakitchens on November 25, 2014 at 8:40 pm

  345. Really interesting. Thank you for the tips.

    By amymariesmith on November 26, 2014 at 8:35 pm

  346. I’m so into biographies at the moment! My next picture book is a true story and I’m working on loads of others. I feel constantly fascinated. It’s a good feeling!

    By julietclarebell on November 27, 2014 at 6:46 pm

  347. I love the use of picture books as teaching tools – historical fiction and nonfiction. The event you used to form the basis of Goldie is so inspiring.

    By Nancy Kotkin on November 28, 2014 at 4:44 pm

  348. Living books are the way to make history come alive. Fantastic!

    By LL on November 28, 2014 at 8:22 pm

  349. Yes, sometimes only first person seems to fit the story although it is frowned upon generally in picture books.

    By majanecka on November 30, 2014 at 12:47 am

  350. Thank you. I’m looking forward to reading Goldie Takes a Stand.

    By lisakwillard on November 30, 2014 at 6:43 am

  351. Thanks, Barbara. I never felt I’d want to write a biographical picture book, but writing about one particular event in a person’s life sounds tempting! I’ll try to stay aware of opportunities!

    By carolmunrojww on November 30, 2014 at 7:20 pm

  352. Dear Barbara,

    So wonderful to see you here as I know your mighty fine GOLDA book.
    Brava! Appreciations for your sharing the Highlights attendance & how that book on their shelf was the catalyst. Such moments are golden.
    Looking forward to many more Barbara Rosen titles.
    And I think Kar-Ben rocks.

    ~ j a n annino

    By bookseedstudio on November 30, 2014 at 10:42 pm

  353. great tips, thank you!

    By Jason Perkins on November 30, 2014 at 10:43 pm

  354. Your five “tips” were very helpful, especially the comment about getting the ms vetted. I wasn’t familiar with that process for NF picture books.

    By Colleen Kelley on November 30, 2014 at 11:06 pm

  355. Your tips are so great!

    By Gloria Amescua on December 1, 2014 at 11:47 pm

  356. I just started writing picture book biographies, so your words were so very helpful. Thanks!

    By Andrea J Loney on December 2, 2014 at 1:05 am

  357. thank you Barbara. I admire your work and insight, and like you, am working on similar subjects, so I appreciate your comments.

    By Daniela Weil on December 3, 2014 at 10:34 am

  358. I am intrigued and inspired by your work. I love the idea of historical creative non – fiction. Thank you for sharing.

    By angelcat2014 on December 5, 2014 at 1:58 am

  359. I love your list of 5 things of what is absolutely true

    By Kelly Russell Jaques on December 5, 2014 at 5:43 pm

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