by Dev Petty
I know, I know…You’ve probably read or been told you should write every day. Twenty minutes? Thirty minutes? Some number of minutes that gets you off your behind and typing away.
But I’m here to suggest a different approach, something especially useful for picture book writers.
STOP Writing.
Yes, you heard it here first. Stop. At least for a while.
Work with me here…
When I was first writing picture books and I found a story idea, I’d race home and get to writing it. Words streamed off my finger tips into my story, clickety-clack, clickety-clack and BOOM! I’d be done and I’d congratulate myself for finishing. Then I’d edit and revise and tinker and make little changes. I wrote a lot of stories this way, but they were often a bit one note. They were linear, a super straight shot at my story idea. Moving so fast from an idea to writing, I got mired in language and word choices, small stuff, instead of thinking about the idea itself. It’s one of those forest for the trees kinda things.
Somewhere along the way, I put the brakes on that process. What did I do? I started thinking.
Here’s what I’ve found. When I take some time, in some cases LOTS of time, to think about my idea and how to get that idea onto the page, I come up with a richer, more original story. I lie on my deck, I think in the shower, I think on a walk, I think on a rock, I think as I’m going to and coming out of sleep. Sometimes, if it’s a really juicy idea, I think for MONTHS about how that idea could turn into a story. Fair warning, thinking is hard. Our brains are filled with lunch making and appointments and things to do- it takes time to learn to think.
So, while I’m lying on the deck “writing” (Imagine my husband making an air quote gesture here), what am I thinking about? Well, I think about structure and about voice. I try my story in my head in different ways: Traditional, present tense, past tense, third person, sparse, only in dialogue, repetitive, wordless. When I’ve done this long enough something really strange happens. I start to hear it, I start to hear my story. Then, and only then, do I write down the words.
I also try to think about my story from many angles, to turn it around in my head. Can my idea be expressed as a metaphor or in a way that’s deeper? Is a story about a kid with head lice more interesting if it’s about a monkey with fleas? These are the deep questions I ask…”Monkey or no monkey?” Monkeys aside, a wonderful bi-product of thinking instead of writing is that you find new ideas. Ideas breed ideas, so it’s like you’re making tiny little baby stories while you’re bringing the first one into the world.
Finally, before I ever write a word, I force myself to ask myself this most basic question. WHAT IS THIS STORY ABOUT? (Hint: the answer does not have your main character’s name in it) If I can’t answer that, I’m not ready to write the story. Period.
When I finally do write words, it goes pretty fast and requires less tinkering, it comes out of the oven a little more baked. Still, in those first few moments of writing the story I’ve formed in my head, I will try the opening in a bunch of different ways to see what sticks. That opening forms the framework for the whole book and I’m always prepared to write the opening, read it back, throw it away and try again if it isn’t right before continuing.
It’s a good bet this method isn’t for everyone, but for me it has fundamentally changed my experience of writing picture books. My stories are now more ME. They have MY voice. They come out as I imagined. Also, I get to spend a lot of time in the sun just thinking. About monkeys.
Dev Petty’s debut picture book, I Don’t Want to be a Frog (Random House/Doubleday) will be released on February 24th. Told in hilarious dialogue, this book is about a frog who wants to be anything but a slimy, wet frog. Before writing children’s books, Dev worked as a senior visual effects artist in film on The Matrix films and dozens of others. She lives in Albany with her husband, two daughters and critters. Connect with her at www.devpetty.com.
Dev is giving away a picture book critique!
This prize will be given away at the conclusion of PiBoIdMo. You are eligible for this prize if:
- You have registered for PiBoIdMo.
- You have commented ONCE ONLY on today’s post.
- You have completed the PiBoIdMo challenge. (You will have to sign the PiBoIdMo Pledge at the end of the event.)
Good luck, everyone!
484 comments
Comments feed for this article
November 18, 2014 at 8:01 am
Nat Keller
Thanks Dev- sometimes ideas need a bit of time to gel into an amazing idea with some substance!
November 18, 2014 at 8:02 am
Anna Levin
Interesting way to look at writing down our ideas. Thank you Dev! Off to think:)
November 18, 2014 at 8:02 am
tanyakonerman
What a great idea! BTW…my husband too uses air quotes to describe my back deck writing efforts!
November 18, 2014 at 8:08 am
Brittanny Handiboe
I think a lot before I write the story too! And here I thought I was just overthinking a bit. Thank you Dev.
November 18, 2014 at 8:08 am
ManjuBeth
Thanks for sharing, Dev.
November 18, 2014 at 8:08 am
Margaret Flint Suter
Putting on the brakes…thinking…I think I can get behind this…I call it wallowing in the idea mud hole…get good and slimy and then let that harden…perhaps something compelling will crack off as the mud dries…showering can always come later!
November 18, 2014 at 8:10 am
jodimckay
I’m pretty good at the sit and stew technique, but I never thought to do it with writing. Thanks for the suggestion!
November 18, 2014 at 8:10 am
deborahholtwilliams
“Monkeys, or no monkeys…” Thanks for the reminder to put some thought into our stories and to always ask ourselves, “what is this story about?” Great post, Dev!
November 18, 2014 at 8:11 am
Aimee Isaac
I do this too…but I’m thinking I should let the story stew longer…see what happens. Thanks!
November 18, 2014 at 8:11 am
mwebb32
Love your post! Now, time to think!!
November 18, 2014 at 8:13 am
Rebecca Colby
An idea definitely needs to be given plenty of thinking time before it’s put down on the page. Thanks for this important reminder and fun post!
November 18, 2014 at 8:13 am
Henrietta Choplin
Oh, I am so Happy to read this!! Thank you!!
November 18, 2014 at 8:13 am
hmmmmm
Great post — thanks! I find I actually have to have these conversations with myself IN WRITING though, as I am so distractible on a walk etc. But it is definitely a different sort of writing than actually writing the story itself!
November 18, 2014 at 8:15 am
Clare Helen welsh
Great advice… And a great excuse to take a break!
November 18, 2014 at 8:17 am
Nancy Tandon
Excellent thoughts. And I think a support group called “air-quoting significant others” needs to be established.
November 18, 2014 at 8:17 am
Barbara Cairns
Showering, driving,,walking, waking, listening,… all of these activities have me thinking about picture books. Your wonderful post told me indeed I am “writing” during those “other” times. Thanks, Dev!
November 18, 2014 at 8:19 am
Joseph Miller
Thanks for the advice 😉
November 18, 2014 at 8:19 am
donnacangelosi
Thank you so much for a great post, Dev! Thinking and playing with ideas in a patient way is a great way to develop stories.
November 18, 2014 at 8:21 am
Lenora Riegel
I like thinking and monkeys…. thanks! Lots to think about!
November 18, 2014 at 8:22 am
Jeanette Bradley
Love this!
November 18, 2014 at 8:22 am
Janet Smart
I think this is a truly great idea! This will make our story more unique. And, it is the unique ones that get picked out of the slush pile. I did this recently, but it was after already writing my manuscript, I kept brainstorming and brainstorming trying to figure out how to make it different. Finally something hit me (not literally :o), and I came up with two lines that made it different than all the others out there. I think I will go back to my other ideas and do a little brainstorming.
November 18, 2014 at 8:22 am
Jamie Deenihan
Great post Dev! Thank you reminding us to think deeper about our stories and give them time to develop. Congratulations on your book!
November 18, 2014 at 8:23 am
Louann Brown
Loved your suggestion of thinking of the story as traditional, present tense, past tense, third person, sparse, only in dialogue, repetitive, and wordless. Most, things I rarely consider. Putting it on my do list.
November 18, 2014 at 8:24 am
marciecolleen
Yes! My latest book simmered and sautéed in my head for over a year before I even wrote a word! Thanks, Dev!
November 18, 2014 at 8:24 am
shiela fuller
Thank you, Dev, for giving me something to think about today. Letting my story simmer in my mind helps bring all the pieces together before I write.
November 18, 2014 at 8:25 am
janejpark
Off to go find a cosy place for “writing.” Thanks for the insights!
November 18, 2014 at 8:26 am
Christy Mihaly
Great thoughts here about the importance of letting an idea mature into the book it wants to be. I find this is especially true when I’m wrangling with a topic that might be better off as an article, or a MG . . . Thanks!
November 18, 2014 at 8:27 am
Lisa Ventrella
I like the notion of letting an idea simmer for a while, to become more you than simply words or an idea.
November 18, 2014 at 8:27 am
writing4children
I can’t wait til this book comes out!
November 18, 2014 at 8:29 am
tinawissner
Yes, I get your post completely!
Thanks a million:)
November 18, 2014 at 8:28 am
lmconnors
Lisa Connors
Great post! I do this thinking too and I’ve always called it pre-writing. However, I’ve never done it so long (usually only days when I like an idea), nor do I have a qualifier that I use to say “It’s time to start writing.” Thanks and congratulations on your new release.
November 18, 2014 at 8:28 am
Karen A
I loved this post! Much of my writing is done away from the keyboard as well. As a busy mom, I am often forced to think about my idea’s long before my fingers ever hit the keys. By the time I do get the time to sit down and type things out, it usually flows out effortlessly.
November 18, 2014 at 8:32 am
lindamartinandersen
Dev,
Thanks to PiBoIdMo, I write PB Ideas and not the entire story. I come back to the list when I have additional thoughts on how to make the idea a story. When it feels right, I begin the manuscript. Even then, I may write many versions. Still, I do find the simmering process very helpful. Often, first ideas are not the best, but they are a start. Gotta start!
November 18, 2014 at 8:32 am
Laurie Theurer
LOVE your sense of humor… probably because it reminds me of mine! Thank you for the thoughts & smiles.
November 18, 2014 at 8:36 am
Dee Knabb
What a great reminder to take the time to think before writing. Love this.
November 18, 2014 at 8:36 am
Pam
I like your concept. Thinking is a great way to make the story the best it can be. Thank you!
November 18, 2014 at 8:39 am
Cindy Greene
Great post!! Perfect reminder during this month. Thanks
November 18, 2014 at 8:39 am
Beth Gallagher
Oh how true this is! 🙂 I’ve found that I must have at least 25 versions before I get the voice just right. Thanks for a great post!
November 18, 2014 at 8:39 am
Roberta Rivera Illustrations
As an illustrator, I’ll doodle or draw out ideas and keep drawing. I think, the thinking process is an excellent time to bring your story to fruition.
November 18, 2014 at 8:43 am
cartwomey
I like it!! Definitely think time enriches ideas-off to the stewing pot!!
November 18, 2014 at 8:43 am
Lauren Greenberg
Sometimes we need that extra nudge to just sit and think 🙂
Thanks for the post!
November 18, 2014 at 8:44 am
vickireinhardt2014
I’m pretty sure I should take your advice!
November 18, 2014 at 8:50 am
thelogonauts
I think it is such an important acknowledgement that “writing” is so much more than the physical act of putting words on paper/screen. Thanks for the encouragement!
November 18, 2014 at 8:51 am
bevbaird
Wonderful advice Dev. That actually worked well for one story I could just not fix. I put it away for months. When I came back much later, I made greater headway and even changed the viewpoint. thanks for sharing.
November 18, 2014 at 8:53 am
kimberleemurray
Great post! Thanks for reminding us that it’s OK to not write sometimes 🙂
November 18, 2014 at 8:56 am
Jan Milusich
Thanks for your suggestions. I’ll give them a try.
November 18, 2014 at 9:01 am
talithabuggirl
Wow, I love this idea, as an illustrator who’s just starting to venture into writing as well, it often feels like I must get that idea on paper or I’ll lose it. I’d like to try this technique!
November 18, 2014 at 9:01 am
Nadine Gamble
Yes, yes, yes! Thank you for validating the “thinking” part of writing for me!
November 18, 2014 at 9:03 am
Linda Baie
It’s great advice, taking time to “think” the story before writing. Thanks, & congrats for your coming book!
November 18, 2014 at 9:05 am
Rachelle Sadler
Thank you! You’ve hit the nail on the head. Thinking about the story is just as important as writing it. I’m off to my deck to do some “thinking” too 🙂
November 18, 2014 at 9:06 am
marcimcadam
Dev, you’re right, thinking is hard work! I like to do my thinking with a latte in hand, and now I feel absolutely justified in staring off into space, “writing”.
November 18, 2014 at 9:08 am
Allyn Stotz
Great advice and I’m going to definitely try this! Thanks for sharing.
November 18, 2014 at 9:09 am
thislittlebirdie
Love this approach!
November 18, 2014 at 9:09 am
Alexa Kaufhold
My own process has been moving toward thinking more and writing less. Glad to read this post!
November 18, 2014 at 9:11 am
Jennette Mutolo
Like all great stews or SAUCE (preferably marinara in my case) they are so much better with time. Thanks Dev! You’ve remind me to let it simmer, don’t rush, and find the best “cheese” for the final touch.
November 18, 2014 at 9:13 am
Jabeen
Thanks for your post! You are right, thinking is a lot of hard work, and then to give yourself the time to re-construct things in your story, something I need to work on.
November 18, 2014 at 9:14 am
cravevsworld
As someone with a pile of 60+ manuscripts… I needed to hear this and will take the advice to heart. Thank you!!!
November 18, 2014 at 9:15 am
Pat Blackman
Thanks for giving me a new approach.
November 18, 2014 at 9:19 am
Tina Cho
Thanks for this reminder, Dev. I like to ponder on my ideas, too.
November 18, 2014 at 9:19 am
Laura K Zimmermann
Thank you for your insights!
November 18, 2014 at 9:21 am
Nancy Furstinger
I agree–air-writing is powerful: I get my best ideas in the bathtub or out walking the dogs!
November 18, 2014 at 9:23 am
Michelle Fandrich
Great post – thank you!
November 18, 2014 at 9:23 am
thestoryladyva
I do this as well sometimes! What a refreshing post!
November 18, 2014 at 9:23 am
Hayley B
Monkeys make everything more interesting. Thanks, Dev!
November 18, 2014 at 9:24 am
danielle hammelef
I think part of my difficulty with coming up with fresh ideas is that I feel guilty about my “writing time” (air quotes here too) as others see it as lack of productive writing sometimes. Thanks for sharing and for the awesome prize!
November 18, 2014 at 9:25 am
Laura Purdie Salas
Needed to hear this today. Thanks!
November 18, 2014 at 9:27 am
Tracey M. Cox
Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhh! <— Angelic choir signing.
Finally, someone who gets me! Yes!
I do this. People often ask, "How long do you write each day?" "Um, I don't. At least not every day." I get looks that I'm sure you are familiar with. hahaha. Technically, I am writing… just not on paper or laptop. My brain is always on story-mode even when I'm doing other things. The Hubs has gotten use to me telling him mid-sentences to hang on a minute, because I have to actually write.
So, Hello, Dev. You are a kindred spirit of mine. 🙂
November 18, 2014 at 9:29 am
Carolyn Rohrbaugh
That is good advice, Thanks
November 18, 2014 at 9:30 am
rgstones
I’m guilty of writing too soon and getting caught up in word choices before the big picture. Definitely something to work on. Thank you! Also, I love your sandals. 🙂
November 18, 2014 at 9:32 am
Wrenaissance Art
It takes a mix of active and passive engagement with an initial idea for it to become a realized project. Thanks for reminding us to step back and “let the dough rise.”
November 18, 2014 at 9:33 am
Jim Chaize
Another idea I will experiment with … thinking, before writing. I can see how it would allow you to consider many different possibilities for your story. Thanks Dev.
November 18, 2014 at 9:33 am
alikotanko
I can’t wait to try this method out. I tend to get frustrated just writing when I’m not sure exactly what I’m writing about, so this just might be my answer 🙂
November 18, 2014 at 9:37 am
gweddle
Thank you for showing us that time we are not writing can still be productive and creative. I spend lots of time thinking, then feel guilty for not spending more time writing. Thank you for your post!
November 18, 2014 at 9:37 am
pathaap
Wonderful advice – something to keep in mind when I’m writing my stories!
November 18, 2014 at 9:38 am
DaNeil
Perfect post for me today. Thank you.
November 18, 2014 at 9:44 am
Cindy C.
Your post reinforces my belief that writing picture books is a little different from writing novels, YA material etc. Not that we shouldn’t have the BIC (butt in chair, thanks Jane Yolen) periodically, but having that step back, or that mulling it over period is important. Stepping away is sometimes the best thing. Just remember to come back!
November 18, 2014 at 9:45 am
Mishka Jaeger
This is great advice. And, for me, easily followed as i am seldom in front of a computer all day while I’m chasing after the kids or running errands. I’ve been doing this for some of my illustrations lately by necessity and it totally works there too (astoundingly, my Hannukkah getting card illustration came out almost like i pushed a print button in my brain, which NEVER happens). I’m new to writing but will give it a go!
November 18, 2014 at 9:46 am
Ann K
If I took more time to think about my ideas, then I would have a better feel and direction for my stories. Thank you for your helpful advice!
November 18, 2014 at 9:48 am
Doreen E. Lepore
Thanks for the monkey thoughts!
November 18, 2014 at 9:48 am
Corey Finkle
I often feel guilty when I get an idea and then sit on it for days, weeks, or even months. Thanks for giving voice to why this happens, and why it might not be a bad thing!
November 18, 2014 at 9:48 am
Jacqueline
Great advice about not getting mired in the small stuff too soon. Thanks for sharing your method.
November 18, 2014 at 9:49 am
Celeste
How do you know when to stop thinking? I feel like I will sit on idea, playing around with it and never actually writing it down. After I’ve thought about it for too long it starts to feel stale and I feel like I should be coming up with newer, shinier ideas instead of actually developing the idea I’ve spent months thinking about.
November 18, 2014 at 9:50 am
Jodi Moore
Could not agree with this post more. Thanks for sharing your [insert air quotes] “writing” process with us! 😉
November 18, 2014 at 9:50 am
Pat Miller
PiBoIdMo has taught me to record the idea–then think about it! Otherwise, my ideas, even those I’m thinking about, can drift away. I’m going to give your “toes up” approach some more effort.
November 18, 2014 at 9:53 am
Deirdre Sheridan Englehart
Interesting approach! I especially like the sitting on the deck part!
November 18, 2014 at 9:54 am
Amy Harding
Great post! I am so glad to hear someone else requires more “thinking” and less writing!
November 18, 2014 at 9:54 am
Josh Funk
Totally agree. If you can’t answer ‘what is this story about?’ then DON’T write it yet! GREAT ADVICE!
November 18, 2014 at 10:00 am
Mike Karg
This makes complete sense to me. I like to get the premise down, a “shitty first logline”, a la Anne Lamott’s “shitty first draft” and then walk around with it for months. The logline is always there as a reminder and I can tweak it until I’m ready to develop it, but that is easier to work with than several pages of options and snippets and well-maybe-I-could-do-it-this-way vomitus.
November 18, 2014 at 10:00 am
Debra Shumaker
Wow, what an interesting thing to think about. Thanks so much for this thought-provoking post!
November 18, 2014 at 10:02 am
msmo1958
Awesome advice! I am a thinker as well. Just have to work on not OVER thinking things.
November 18, 2014 at 10:02 am
Juliana Lee
OK, now that everyone is thinking about monkeys….
I’ve got some serious “writing” to do today!
November 18, 2014 at 10:04 am
Erin Nowak
I wrote down some of your structure and voice formats and I look forward to putting a couple of my favorite ideas from the few I’ve come up during PiBoIdMo, through that thinking and “writing” process! Thanks!!
November 18, 2014 at 10:06 am
lindaschueler
I do both. Sometimes I write the story right away and then tinker with it. Other times it’s just an idea that forms in my head in different ways. Not sure which one works better for me though!
November 18, 2014 at 10:06 am
Christine Michaela Sharpe
Great prize! I hope I win, I hope I win!
November 18, 2014 at 10:07 am
Ashley Bohmer
Hmmm…I always thought my problem was too much thinking and not enough writing, but now I’m realizing it’s actually a perfect balance of both. 🙂 Thanks for the great post!
November 18, 2014 at 10:07 am
Erin O'Brien
“What is this story about?” I will take that advice to heart. Thanks for the inspiration, Dev!
November 18, 2014 at 10:11 am
bonzerb
Great advice, thank you!
November 18, 2014 at 10:11 am
Mindy
Thanks for the great ideas! “Working” while lounging in the sun sounds like perfection 🙂
November 18, 2014 at 10:12 am
loriannlevyholm
wow… This is my favorite post so far. Thank you for sharing. I always feel production frenzy and I feel like I am slower with developing ideas. You made my day Dev.
November 18, 2014 at 10:18 am
Shirley Timberlake Fadden
In my own way, this is what I have been doing, but I like your structured way of using the time that I call “don’t-ing”. Which is when I’m thinking, but not writing, because that’s all I have time to do.
And always, yes to monkeys… I LOVE the questions we get to debate!
Thank you!
November 18, 2014 at 10:19 am
Melanie Ellsworth
Dev, I sometimes write with the nagging feeling that I’m not sure what the story is about but maybe I’ll figure it out as I write. It seems so simple, but I really appreciate your suggestion to ask yourself “What is this story about?” BEFORE starting to write.
November 18, 2014 at 10:20 am
Debbie Wagenbach
Thank you for the great writing tips. I can’t wait to read “I Don’t Want to be a Frog.”
November 18, 2014 at 10:22 am
tphumiruk
I love your perspective on writing and your sense of humor! Thank you so much for letting us in on your process.
November 18, 2014 at 10:24 am
rubineleanor
Formulating the questions: a very important process. Thanks for the reminder.
November 18, 2014 at 10:24 am
MaryAnn Clark
Thanks for sharing your process! I agree that thinking and playing with ideas and giving yourself time is really important.
November 18, 2014 at 10:24 am
Alison Goldberg
Fantastic post. Thanks!
November 18, 2014 at 10:26 am
Zainab Khan
what a great idea! I’ll have to practice stewing my story for a longer time. Thank you!
November 18, 2014 at 10:29 am
jeanjames
Great post,and advice. Nothing like letting something stew for awhile to improve the flavor!!
November 18, 2014 at 10:29 am
Deb Beauchamp
Love it! Especially the “writing” on the deck! I’ve found that so true that the story just needs to percolate for a while before it can come out. Congrats on your book! Can’t wait to see it.
November 18, 2014 at 10:31 am
Christie
I love letting my ideas stew for a while. It’s nice to know someone else does too. 🙂
November 18, 2014 at 10:34 am
katmaz2012
Thank you, thank you, thank you! I was feeling that I wasn’t “doing it right” because I am always thinking about the story, before I write anything down. I needed this post today:)
November 18, 2014 at 10:35 am
vijikc
Totally agree with you! Thinking gives clarity! Thank you for your post!
November 18, 2014 at 10:37 am
beckylevine
This just happened to me with a picture book idea I got on the way to a yoga class. I HAD to think about it. It was a really slow, relaxed class and the idea wouldn’t go away-just kept turning around in my head and showing me different pieces and angles. And now my critique group says it’s my best pb yet. So, yes, there’s something to that thinking thing. 🙂
November 18, 2014 at 10:37 am
meenooma
This really resonated with me. Thank you!
November 18, 2014 at 10:37 am
Tom Barrett
Like a good wine, a good picture book needs time to develop. That’s what I’ve heard, anyway, since I… don’t drink wine. Thanks for another great post!
November 18, 2014 at 10:38 am
meenooma
This post really resonated with me. Thank you!
November 18, 2014 at 10:50 am
meenooma
accidentally posted twice and can’t delete it. sorry!
November 18, 2014 at 10:38 am
LovableLobo
Thanks for the thought provoking post, Dev! Thinking cap on!
November 18, 2014 at 10:40 am
Elizabeth Metz
This is excellent advice, and I like to think this is where I’ve landed in terms of process, too, if only because I’m a tiny bit of a procrastinator / an obsessive planner who’s not prone to diving into things feet first. But I’m going to be more intentional about my “writing / thinking time” in the future and really pay attention to what’s happening. Thanks, Dev!
November 18, 2014 at 10:42 am
Linda Ford
I love the reminder to think my stories through. Thank you.Linda
November 18, 2014 at 10:42 am
Dinah Miller
A lot of writers fail to realize that it takes more to write a story then just the typing. I love thinking about the story more than the actual writing of it. It’s just how my creativity is accomplished.
November 18, 2014 at 10:47 am
Joanne Sher
I KNOW this will help me. A LOT. THANK you, Dev!!
November 18, 2014 at 10:51 am
kevanjatt
This: “WHAT IS THIS STORY ABOUT? (Hint: the answer does not have your main character’s name in it) If I can’t answer that, I’m not ready to write the story.”
I just asked myself this question (per your suggestion) and I am making a substantial change in a story I’ve been struggling with for a long time. Thank you.
Also, I just got my idea for the day. A story all about sharing. Featuring lice.
November 18, 2014 at 10:52 am
Susan Cabael
I love this post. It is just what I need to help develop the depth of my stories. Thank you!
November 18, 2014 at 10:52 am
Naana Kyereboah
Thanks Dev, for the great post about thinking stories thoroughly through! Really helpful.
November 18, 2014 at 10:54 am
Lori Dubbin
Ah, the Think System! Just like in “The Music Man!”
November 18, 2014 at 10:54 am
Lori Alexander
This is great advice! Congrats on your first PB. Cute, sandals. too 🙂
November 18, 2014 at 10:55 am
Susan Halko
Thanks for identifying specifically what goes through your head when you are thinking about a story. Very helpful.
November 18, 2014 at 10:55 am
Doris Fisher
Thinking before writing = great! I call it percolating!
November 18, 2014 at 10:56 am
Kim Erickson
I work this way too. I do a lot of “writing” in my head before anything goes on the computer. However, I need to work on really defining “what is this story about.” Thanks for the advice.
November 18, 2014 at 10:57 am
Rita Allmon
Thanks Dev for these “thought” provoking words of wisdom. Thinking is an art form that becomes an art medium. An Auguste Rodin needs to do a study of my “thinker” pose. ; )
November 18, 2014 at 10:58 am
kathalsey
Dev, I appreciate the permission to think things through and play with them before putting my BIC. I find that the stories that I keep coming back to in my head, the ones I keep thinking about are usually the ons that have more depth once written.
November 18, 2014 at 10:58 am
marylouisealucurto
Thank You for your Writing Wisdom! Metacognition is a wonderful writing tool!
November 18, 2014 at 11:00 am
Debra Daugherty
I’ve been doing the (air quote) “thinking” method for years. It works!
November 18, 2014 at 11:02 am
jngallaher
I’m totally a stop and thinker. Sometimes even a stop and don’t thinker and then all of a sudden an idea will pop up for that story out of nowhere!
November 18, 2014 at 11:03 am
kdveiten
So I’ve not been procrastinating? I’ve been thinking? LOL
November 18, 2014 at 11:04 am
Traci Sorell
Thanks for the great advice!
November 18, 2014 at 11:05 am
Vicki Wilke
Although I do like that idea Dev and I try sometimes to do that, my problem is that once I get an idea, it bounces around and multiplies with so many possibilities and I am afraid my old brain will forget them! I guess it must include trusting that the ideas will still be there after all that simmering! And maybe, just jotting down a few phrases??
November 18, 2014 at 11:06 am
anniebailey7
Great post! I write like this as well. Lots of thinking.
November 18, 2014 at 11:07 am
dsi1nyu
Simmering makes good stories and good stew. Can you tell it’s chilly out?
November 18, 2014 at 11:10 am
Zach Ratcliffe
“What is this story about?” Always a top question. -Zach Ratcliffe
November 18, 2014 at 11:11 am
Nancy Ramsey
This is great advice- Thank you! I’ll look forward to reading your book!
November 18, 2014 at 11:12 am
Shena Ashcraft
Thank you! What is this story about? Not who, WHAT?! So helpful to keep in the forefront!
November 18, 2014 at 11:13 am
kristivaliant
Perfect. This is exactly what my current WIP is needing. I don’t think I’ve figured out the big picture on that one yet.
November 18, 2014 at 11:15 am
Mary McClellan
Can’t wait to read “I Don’t Want to be a Frog.” Did you spend more time thinking in the shower vs thinking on the deck for this story? 🙂 Always love hearing about process! Thanks for sharing!!
November 18, 2014 at 11:16 am
Marty McCormick
Thanks for sharing your methods with us. And congratulations on the upcoming book. I’ll be looking for it. Marty McCormick
November 18, 2014 at 11:18 am
Debbie Austin
Thanks, Dev. Such great suggestions for deepening the story BEFORE I begin writing.
November 18, 2014 at 11:18 am
Rebecca E. Guzinski
You’ve reinforced that I need to give myself permission to let my stories sit and brew for a while. I usually feel guilty about this but thinking may inspire creativity.
November 18, 2014 at 11:26 am
Lynnette Sandbloom
Love the purple toe nail polish!
November 18, 2014 at 11:28 am
Lynnor Bontigao
Monkeys with fleas sounds cute! Decisions, decisions…right on not writing sometimes. I must tell husband that I will need a deck.
November 18, 2014 at 11:29 am
The Styling Librarian
“Thinking!” Love it!
November 18, 2014 at 11:29 am
Kelly Vavala
Ideas breed ideas and what is this story about….two wonderful ways of thinking!! I like the idea of letting it simmer before rushing into it. Really allows yourself to mull over every aspect and make sure that the message you want to convey or story you want to tell is being told in the best possible way! And by the way I love the idea of laying on the deck thinking about monkeys!! Thank you so much for sharing your inspiration and time with us!
November 18, 2014 at 11:32 am
Sydney O'Neill
It has certainly been true for me that writing is easier and stories have more substance after I’ve given their various aspects time to meld and mature in my mind. I’ve finally realized that when I write without doing that, it’s usually idea generation, not story creation.
November 18, 2014 at 11:33 am
Heidi Yates
I like the idea of slowing down the process a bit until the story talks to you, and giving yourself time to think some details through more clearly. Thank you for reminding us that it’s okay to put down the writing pen every now and again. 🙂
November 18, 2014 at 11:35 am
Joyce Tucker
Awesome post! Love it! It was nice to be given “permission” to think and think some more about your idea. Appreciate it Dev 💭 !
November 18, 2014 at 11:39 am
barbswright
” Fair warning, thinking is hard. ” I love the whole article! Novembers get darker and so do I, and beat myself and want to throw out the whole I Am A Writer thing and then … you say, “Think” and I am relieved and things start to flow again (and then I catch up on missed PiBo days AND know my YA novel _will_ get written!) Thank you
November 18, 2014 at 11:39 am
ajschildrensbooks
Excellent advice! Thank you, Dev!
November 18, 2014 at 11:39 am
Jill Siegel
Thanks for sharing a piece of your writing process with us! 🙂
November 18, 2014 at 11:45 am
sjctenney
I love this. I’m a deep thinker too, so I think my process is similar to yours. I love going for long thinking walks. Great post!
November 18, 2014 at 11:45 am
Stacy S. Jensen
It’s fun to tinker with a story before writing it. Thanks.
November 18, 2014 at 11:47 am
Jennifer Huls
Thank you for sharing your “system” with us. Congrats on your book !
November 18, 2014 at 11:49 am
Dawn
Take time to think and it doesn’t hurt if it’s in the sun! Thanks.
November 18, 2014 at 11:49 am
Sandie Sing
Interesting thought. I would write and then, I would walk away from it for three months to a year and see the story in a whole different perspective. Giving your brain a short term vacation is a fabulous idea.
November 18, 2014 at 11:49 am
Nancy Armo
Thinking is the marinating of the idea. Good things come from slow cooking.
November 18, 2014 at 11:58 am
Henry Herz
Thanks for sharing. The beauty of your technique is that a) it produces a better PB, and b) I can tell my wife I’m “writing” when I’m loafing around instead of doing honey-do’s. 🙂
November 18, 2014 at 12:00 pm
Nina Haines
Hmmmm let the idea cook. Great prize! Thanks for sharing the process of book cooking.
November 18, 2014 at 12:01 pm
Pat
WOW! What a breakthrough! Several of my stories have turned out kinda blah and I’ve been trying to just THINK about how to add pizzazz! It’s the hardest thing to do but I’m confident my story will come out better for it. Thank you, Dev!
November 18, 2014 at 12:02 pm
Rachel H
This is such great advice. I’ve been spending a lot more time thinking through my ideas before I start typing out a draft. I do write, but usually it’s questions and answers in a notebook. I find it helps so much with structure and story logic.
November 18, 2014 at 12:03 pm
Margaret Greanias
I love this advice! I am guilty of writing one note stories and am so excited to try your method out. Thank you for the inspiration!
November 18, 2014 at 12:06 pm
daynesislendesign
Love your process. I find my best thinking time is in the morning when I’m 1/2 awake and don’t really want to get out of bed. It may take several morning like this to work out a story.
November 18, 2014 at 12:06 pm
teresarobeson
Good reminder! Many times we forget that thinking is as integral as revising and the actual writing down of the first draft. I use Dev’s method more so with novel writing than PBs, but I need to keep this post in mind and do so for PBs too. 🙂
November 18, 2014 at 12:07 pm
Bonnie Adamson
I love the reminder to think more deeply about the idea before trying to hammer it into shape. I think that’s why sometimes the odd word or phrase–the ones I can’t keep out of my head, but which seem to have no real concept attached–often turn into more viable projects than the ideas that arrived fully formed. I’ve simply invested more time in them.
November 18, 2014 at 12:10 pm
sherry alexander
I like the idea of an idea being a little more baked.
November 18, 2014 at 12:12 pm
Stephanie Fitzpatrick
I find that a similar process works well for me. I’ll often turn off the car radio on the way to/from work to let my ideas “speak” to me.
November 18, 2014 at 12:18 pm
Jessie
Thanks for sharing, I definitely have a lot of ideas that require more thought before I go anywhere near my computer 😀
November 18, 2014 at 12:18 pm
Valarie Giogas
Thank you for the affirmation/permission to write this way! Excellent thoughts.
November 18, 2014 at 12:20 pm
Judy Cox
“What is this story really about?” is my magic question for all of my books and short stories, however I ask it at the end of the first draft. For me, writing IS thinking and I go through a similar process to yours–including trying things in different tenses, voices, characters–but every stage is written down. It must be so, or I won’t retain the ideas. This means every manuscript–be it 50 words or 50,000–goes through 15–20 drafts. Some would see that as a waste of time, but I wouldn’t have it any other way.
November 18, 2014 at 12:23 pm
Patricia Toht
Great post! Thanks, Dev. I do quite a bit of thinking. It’s like filling up the water pitcher until it’s ready to spill.
November 18, 2014 at 12:28 pm
gabisnyder
This is the advice I needed. The way you describe your original writing process — racing through and ending up with something a bit “one note” sounds very much like my current process. So, I’m going to try more thinking and less writing…for awhile. Thanks, Dev!
November 18, 2014 at 12:29 pm
Jennifer DuBose
Ooh, I love this post. I used to be unconsciously critical of myself for doing so much percolating, but it’s essential! I love Patty’s comment about water spilling over, too ^!
November 18, 2014 at 12:30 pm
Sandy Powell
What a load off my mind. You read everywhere that you should write every day, but I struggle to write every day. Not always sure what to write because picture books have so few words. You think “Do I write a different story every day?” Even though that’s not realistic. What great advice to take walks etc to “think” about your story. In a sense you are writing every day. Thank you!
November 18, 2014 at 12:34 pm
julie rowan zoch
I really appreciate seeing the process from this point of view. I illustrate and write, but I also have to let the story tell itself in my head over time. Some things still rush out, but I try to keep it in idea form as long as I need to. And I don’t attempt to thumbnail either, until the images are really clear.
November 18, 2014 at 12:34 pm
Julene Kinser
Thank you for sharing your process, Dev.
November 18, 2014 at 12:35 pm
Linda Tripp
This really validates the time we spend in our heads. I think I’ll go think!
November 18, 2014 at 12:35 pm
Carol
This is great advice. There are some story ideas that inspire me so that I just want to get writing….but then I get stuck. How should it end? What happens next? Maybe if I take time to really STOP AND THINK….I’d have that figured out before writing it! And it’s good to know that our writing time each day doesn’t necessarily have to be with pencil or keyboard in hand….it can be spent elsewhere….just lost in thought. Thank you.
November 18, 2014 at 12:36 pm
Dana Murphy
Oh, bless your heart. I now have validation that sitting at a stop light thinking about spiders are afraid of thunderstorms IS a form of writing. IT IS!
November 18, 2014 at 12:36 pm
Lynn
I am a thinker, in fact I’ve been told I over think – so much so that my brain is always on fast forward. Exhausting. But I cannot stop thinking, imagining, creating scenarios, daydreaming … although I can learn to slow it down a little. Maybe my ideas will start coming together better and filling out into stories more easily. Thanks, Dev, for pointing out we don’t have to rush all the time in this process of writing.
– Lynn A. Davidson
November 18, 2014 at 12:36 pm
cat jones
Totally agree, thinking (or composting!) is a vital part of finding the story. Thanks for sharing!
November 18, 2014 at 12:39 pm
Therese Nagi
Dev your post makes sense. Sometimes its better to tinker with an idea.
November 18, 2014 at 12:39 pm
kathyh1121 Hickenbotham
I write down my ideas as quickly as possible because I worry I will forget all the good rhyming I am coming up with. Maybe there will be better rhyming if I know more what my PB is all about first. Thanks!
November 18, 2014 at 12:41 pm
Emmeline Hall
Yes!! SO true that a lot of the ‘writing’ or ‘drawing’ is actually done totally in one’s head before it ever makes it onto the page. I have 5 kids (!!) and since so much of my day is spent cleaning up messes and running around like a crazy person, I HAVE to do a lot of creating internally whilst running around, or nothing would ever get done. I am a firm believer in this way of doing things. Thanks for the post!
November 18, 2014 at 12:47 pm
Aunt Alice
It’s easy to get so caught up in the writing you don’t think enough about it, but it’s also just as easy to get caught up in thinking and thinking, never putting the words to paper. It can be hard finding that balance.
November 18, 2014 at 12:49 pm
kathyh1121
Not sure where my previous comment went but my problem is worrying about losing the good rhymes if I don’t put them right down. Maybe I’ll come up with better ones if I wait. Thanks!
November 18, 2014 at 12:54 pm
katiemillsgiorgio
Such great advice…thank you! (ps…I get the air quotes from my family too!)
November 18, 2014 at 12:55 pm
Pam Miller
Wait for it? Get the story question answered? GREAT IDEAS, Dev. I like your well-organized Website, too. Thanks for sharing.
November 18, 2014 at 12:57 pm
Katie Sullivan Peterson
Has anyone noticed that it looks like Tara and Dev could be sisters? Two very imaginative sisters? Thank you for the great advice, Dev!
November 18, 2014 at 1:00 pm
kateywrites
Thanks for this. Sometimes I use this process because I have no choice – like when I was driving 12 hours with 3 kids and had plenty of open road to enjoy my thoughts (and ignore the lyrics to Frozen ). I completely agree that it makes the first draft so much stronger and smoother.
BTW, love your “writing” sandals!
November 18, 2014 at 1:03 pm
Mary Worley
Such good advice. Takes a while for me to get from linear to what the story is really about. Good to be reminded that writing doesn’t always look like writing. 🙂
November 18, 2014 at 1:05 pm
Elizabeth
Loved your idea about slowing down the process with some good, old-fashioned thinking:)
November 18, 2014 at 1:08 pm
Stephanie Geckle (@SPGeckle)
I love your advice. It really takes the pressure off. Turn down the heat, close the lid, and let the idea simmer. I bet it will be delicious!
November 18, 2014 at 1:08 pm
Lisa Robinson
I couldn’t agree more! Thanks-
November 18, 2014 at 1:09 pm
jdewdropsofink
That’s a great idea. I like that version of “writing.” Thanks.
November 18, 2014 at 1:11 pm
Patricia Saunders
If I don’t write down my thought, it seems to disappear :>) I think the successful Frank Lloyd Wright used to think-think and think and one day voila! he had his house plan :>) Thanks for sharing, I will find the balance between the two.
November 18, 2014 at 1:17 pm
Mary Warth
Thanks Dev! I usually follow the first example you shared. When I do spend a lot of time thinking about an idea, it sometimes feels as if I’m not doing anything. I am going to try to value that work time as well!
November 18, 2014 at 1:18 pm
Kathryn Ault Noble
I admire your ability to retain your thinking from day to day without writing! While I do love your process of turning over rocks, writing what I have thought about has to be done quickly if not simultaneously. It seems my brain fires better when writing, almost as if my fingers are the ones doing the thinking. Looking forward to your froggy book!
November 18, 2014 at 1:20 pm
tpierce
Wow, Dev, I feel like we’re writing “soul sisters.” You’ve described my writing process to a tee! I love thinking on an idea for months then bam! It’s ready to write. And as you say, it comes out more developed and requires less tinkering. I’m not alone! Yea!
November 18, 2014 at 1:25 pm
Jenifer Heidorn
From now on, I’ll call it: on-the-clock daydreaming. Can’t wait to log these working hours. Thanks!
November 18, 2014 at 1:26 pm
Dawn Young
Thanks Dev – such great advice!
November 18, 2014 at 1:26 pm
l8k8
thanks for the great post on “writing’. I often find myself rushing an idea, only to spend more time wondering why it isn’t working.
November 18, 2014 at 1:28 pm
momslifeponderings
Thinking IS hard work.
Great post!
Dana Edwards
November 18, 2014 at 1:31 pm
danielledufayet
You make a great point. I don’t think we always give an idea the contemplation it needs to develop into a deeper, richer story. I agree that thinking it through, consciously and unconsciously, can help the story take shape before we start writing; hence, cutting down on early revisions.
November 18, 2014 at 1:32 pm
Robyn Campbell
I agree with you. What a wonderful post. You reminded me to spin that idea around for awhile. THANK YOU! I am writing MOST all day every day. Just because pen is not in hand or fingers are not on keyboard doesn’t mean I’m not writing.
November 18, 2014 at 1:34 pm
Janny J Johnson
I LOVE this way of working. I’m going to write all day today, thinking about my latest idea. Thanks!
November 18, 2014 at 1:36 pm
Shari Schwarz (@csschwarz)
Per your post, I’ll take to heart thinking more about what style to write in. Great motivation here!
November 18, 2014 at 1:40 pm
Shirley Menendez
Thanks for suggesting this story method. I find that the mind can work on a story when I am more relaxed. Congrats on your book.
November 18, 2014 at 1:41 pm
Jennifer Sommer
I would say I do that to some degree, but for me, if I don’t start getting it down on paper I lose ideas. I’ve had the experience of believing I’ve come up with a new angle, and BAM! there it is already in my notes. Although I love the idea of sitting out on the deck all day…
November 18, 2014 at 1:44 pm
Amy Houts
Interesting approach. I will try it. Thanks.
November 18, 2014 at 1:54 pm
Sherri Jones Rivers
Seems like a very sensible approach. No guilt, no shame; but on a book you see YOUR NAME.
November 18, 2014 at 1:56 pm
Sian Mole
I love this method! I absolutely don’t write everyday but I also don’t think it matters either. There is definitely something to be said for letting your story ideas stew in your head!!
November 18, 2014 at 1:58 pm
Sandy Perlic
This blog post is like a mini-workshop – so much good advice and so many things to think about (preferably outside, in the sun…). Thank you.
November 18, 2014 at 1:59 pm
teresa m.i. schaefer (@TMISchaefer)
I like this. It reminds of the Little Engine — I think I can!
November 18, 2014 at 2:00 pm
Jill Tuckman
I love this advice. Thank you so much!
November 18, 2014 at 2:08 pm
Ali Pichardo
Thank you Dev, I enjoyed your post. I have had a few stories jump on paper and that’s worked well. Most of my stories though need to just roll around my head. They may start with an idea, title or just a name. The longer they roll around in my head the better they become. I often picture them as a small rubber band ball, as it rolls around it picks up more rubber bands and gets bigger. Once it is full of enough information it becomes a story I can work with. Thanks for reminding me to let my story grow.
November 18, 2014 at 2:24 pm
Sandi Lawson
What a wonderful way to develop a story! Thanks for posting!
November 18, 2014 at 2:28 pm
BLAHM
Thanks for this, Dev! I dig the idea of letting things percolate a little longer than might seem natural. It makes total sense. And as a filmmaker, I love hearing about others who made the career switch! I am fairly new to the KidLit game, but I already feel like I’ve come home.
November 18, 2014 at 2:31 pm
Charlotte
Dev, thanks for validating my THINK approach on my most current PB idea. And , yes, I agree, “What is my book “about”?” is certainly a critical place to begin. Great post – many thanks!
November 18, 2014 at 2:32 pm
Anne Lei-Yeung So
Ideas need to gestate and I love the idea of thinking it through and looking at the different angles.
November 18, 2014 at 2:32 pm
Charlotte Gunnufson
Thank you, Dev! I am guilty, guilty, guilty of rushing to write and getting a finished product. Not surprisingly, I create very linear stories that follow all the “rules” but turn decent ideas dull as dirt. Must spend more time thinking, imagining and re-imagining.
November 18, 2014 at 2:32 pm
Susie Sawyer
Thanks for the great advice, Dev! I won’t feel so guilty anymore when I say “I’m writing” and I’m not actually pounding away at the keyboard. 🙂
November 18, 2014 at 2:34 pm
Nini Engel
Fascinating and psychologically astute. I think I would have to program in “thinking time”.
November 18, 2014 at 2:41 pm
D Goodman
This is great advice- especially for people who are inclined to process using a top down approach— gives us a chance to indulge ourselves in thoughts and ideas and add more texture to our work and not feel that we are slacking if we are thinking rather than writing.
November 18, 2014 at 2:47 pm
Gail Maki Wilson
Cool post. I think by allowing yourself thinking time, you also allow your brain to “think” even when you’re not thinking about it. Thanks Dev!
November 18, 2014 at 2:47 pm
Charla Yingling
Such great stuff. I guess I’ll spend some time on the deck looking at my boots. I have snow pants. It’ll be fun!
November 18, 2014 at 2:48 pm
jessicacanwrite
thank you Dev!! I work similar to you – the longer I cultivate in my old brain the better it seems to turn out. if I do write it right away it might work, but I notice that they lack some of the little details. thank you for the reminder that we all work differently and can have different creative processes.
November 18, 2014 at 2:48 pm
kirsticall
Great advice, Dev! I actually write stories in my head also 🙂
November 18, 2014 at 2:49 pm
Anne Bromley
Dev, this is perfect advice for those who want ideas to “simmer” a while before committing them to paper or screen. It’s the tortoise and the hare story all over again. Many thanks for the great reminder.
November 18, 2014 at 2:51 pm
Jay Polowski
Oooo aw but but we are suppose write something everyday. Ok I’ll start next month for thinking. Thanks for the post and congrats on your book
November 18, 2014 at 2:53 pm
Claire Vita
Thanks for the post! This explains why I haven’t typed anything in a few days. I’ve been thinking-really.
November 18, 2014 at 2:55 pm
Franziska
I sooo hear you. If I don’t let a story simmer in the back of my mind for a while before writing anything down, it’s not coming out right…
November 18, 2014 at 2:56 pm
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Can’t wait to read your book! Now to go think…
November 18, 2014 at 2:56 pm
Julie Durr
I tend to overthink things a lot so I am glad to hear that it is probably a good idea to do that when developing a story! Thank you!
November 18, 2014 at 3:00 pm
Lori Mozdzierz
Simming those ideas in the knoggin’ can cut the cook time [aka: rough draft to polished manuscript] by leaps and bounds!
November 18, 2014 at 3:04 pm
Anne-Marie Strohman
I tend to work out ideas on regular hikes. The thinking always makes a difference!
November 18, 2014 at 3:04 pm
Erika Hitchcock
Great advice!! I feel like when I rush my stories don’t have the depth they sorely are calling out for. Thanks!
November 18, 2014 at 3:07 pm
Teresa Daffern
It’s amazing how a change of activity and setting can affect your creative state. I’m more reflective when I’m doing something active and solitary like running or swimming. Ideas (and other problems) seem a lot more clear at those times. Thanks Dev.
November 18, 2014 at 3:11 pm
Sue Heavenrich
I love the sitting-on-a-deck-thinking…. I find I do my best thinking in a warm shower (in winter) or in the garden whilst pulling weeds and noshing on fresh-off-the-vine cherry tomatoes. The cool thing: after spending time with the story in my head, it is a bit easier to write. and like you say, more complex.
November 18, 2014 at 3:12 pm
sardyhar
I’d like to try your approach (especially the doing it laying out in the sun bit) but I may have to cheat and keep a notebook nearby. I find that if I don’t jot my ideas down, even in the metamorphosis stage, I’m doomed to forget them. Thanks for sharing your process!
November 18, 2014 at 3:13 pm
Marla
This is my writing process too! If I give myself time to think & meditate on it when I finally sit down to write the words just flow.
November 18, 2014 at 3:14 pm
lidia varesco design (@lsvdesign)
First off, I will join the “air-quoting significant others” support group 😉 Second, I loved this post, I feel like PiBoIdMo is encouraging me to think about all of my ideas instead of racing to finish them.
November 18, 2014 at 3:18 pm
Janie Reinart
Dev you’re just like Einstein. He thought through a problem, and found it necessary to formulate his subject in as many different ways as possible. Great idea to use the “think” method!
November 18, 2014 at 3:24 pm
JEN Garrett
I love to think! But I do tend to rush off and write half-baked stories. I have to remember to let them cook in my mind first.
November 18, 2014 at 3:26 pm
Doris Stone
Very interesting post. I’m going to give your “thinking-it-though” method a try. Thanks, Dev.
November 18, 2014 at 3:30 pm
Karen Calloway
This is great advice, Dev, and I can’t wait to stop writing. (Sounds weird when I say it like that.)In my early writing years, I sent out way too many manuscripts, thinking the stories were fully developed. Times have changed, and I usually spend a month thinking before revising. Thank you for posting your thoughts about thinking. I think I will write, now.
November 18, 2014 at 3:39 pm
Alice Fulgione
At present, I write and revise, revise, revise. I’ll certainly try to think a lot more before I write. Thanks for the post!
November 18, 2014 at 3:41 pm
Penny Parker Klostermann
I do lots of thinking-writing, too. I jot down lots if my thoughts in a list though. I’m a keeper of thoughts because they help me in my writing process. This makes for a LOT of files in each manuscript folder.
Thanks do much for sharing your process.
November 18, 2014 at 3:46 pm
Stacy Couch
Dev, I do this! Thinking–out loud, so it sounds like the babbling of a madwoman. Very cool. And I can’t wait to read about the lice. 🙂
November 18, 2014 at 3:46 pm
hethfeth
This post really hits home for me. I’m especially keen on the gem, “WHAT IS THIS STORY ABOUT? (Hint: the answer does not have your main character’s name in it.)” There is so much value in walking away from your story and letting the idea breathe.
November 18, 2014 at 3:54 pm
Annie Cronin Romano
Terrific post! And I agree! I like to let the idea mull and bubble in my brain awhile. Thanks for sharing!
November 18, 2014 at 3:56 pm
kpbock
This is really great advice. I find that once I’ve written a story down, it is very hard for me to think about it in any other way than how it already is. Sometimes it’s better to keep it in your head until you’ve figured out the best way to begin.
November 18, 2014 at 4:03 pm
Kathryn Cunningham
It is so hard to think in our hectic, crazy lives, but so essential to any creative process. Thanks for the reminder.
November 18, 2014 at 4:04 pm
Janet Halfmann
Interesting advice to ponder. I’ve usually found that I need to start a story before all the possibilities start bouncing around in my head while doing other things.
November 18, 2014 at 4:11 pm
KatyD
This makes perfect sense to me, Dev. It’s often hard for me to find a totally quiet time to sit and think, but I know it’s well worth the effort.
November 18, 2014 at 4:15 pm
Elizabeth Brown
Great advice. Interesting post! Thank you!
November 18, 2014 at 4:16 pm
Dorothy Wiese
Thank you for your experience. I’m a bit of a thinker too, but I don’t think monkeys have been in my thoughts. I’ll leave them to you.
November 18, 2014 at 4:32 pm
suzannepoulterharris
I’m with you on this, Dev – after so much thinking, the story practically writes itself. And it makes “writing” fun!
November 18, 2014 at 4:37 pm
writingcygnet
My very first writing teacher encouraged me to take time to think, and suggested that it is not just also writing, but a very important part of the writing process. Thanks for the post and reminding me of this important part of the creative process.
Susan Swan
November 18, 2014 at 4:49 pm
marcusewert
Yeah, less can be more. I almost didn’t do PiBoIdMo this year (I didn’t do it last year)- because I was afraid I have too many ideas littering my room and my brain, and worried that maybe I shouldn’t be adding more input. But, PiBoIdMo’s too fun to resist two years in a row. But I know that the ideas I like the nest out of this year’s batch will definitely need a lot of rumination, going on walks with, staring into space with, and marinating….
November 18, 2014 at 4:51 pm
Darshana
Great post. I do quite a bit of thinking before I write or jotting notes. However I don’t spend as much time as I should trying different voices, tenses, ways to story tell. I’ll need to work on that. Congrats on your forthcoming book. Can’t wait to read it!
November 18, 2014 at 5:15 pm
Lauri Fortino
Do more thinking huh? Well, my brain’s a bit rusty but I’ll give it a shot. 🙂
November 18, 2014 at 5:20 pm
seschipper
Perfect advice!!!!!Thanks so much! 🙂
November 18, 2014 at 5:22 pm
Nancy Colle
Thinking? Is this new? She didn’t mention it, but I have to assume she has coffee in hand during this whole “thinking process” thing. Best to you!
November 18, 2014 at 5:27 pm
Sandy Jones
Using your advice right now as I review my story. Thanks so much!
November 18, 2014 at 5:31 pm
Beth Blee
Dev, your post resonated with me. I need to spend more time thinking about my stories. Thank you! Love the title of your book coming out in February. I’ll be checking it out. Congrats!
November 18, 2014 at 5:35 pm
Jenifer McNamara
Enjoyed your post. I’m like that with my writing. I can’t wait to get the story written, but Patience, Patience, Patience is a good guide.
November 18, 2014 at 5:38 pm
Stephan Stuecklin
Ha! Finally a justification for what I thought was just my lazy approach to writing. 🙂 Thanks, Dev!
November 18, 2014 at 5:46 pm
KASteed
Thank you Dev! I will spend more time thinking and rethinking a story.
November 18, 2014 at 5:48 pm
stephseclecticinterests
What wonderful commitment to getting the story just right! Kudos! All the best with your new endeavour.
November 18, 2014 at 5:48 pm
jport
Thanks for giving me “permission” to write the way that comes pretty naturally to me anyway 🙂
November 18, 2014 at 5:49 pm
kmshelley
Thanks Dev! I just did one of those idea/hurry/clackety clack stories. I love the idea of stopping and letting it stew. Great and very helpful post.
November 18, 2014 at 5:59 pm
mariagianferrari
Thanks, Dev. I do this to, but not with enough intention, and not from many different angles. I will jump in and give it a try!
November 18, 2014 at 6:03 pm
Michelle O'Hara Levin
I LOVE the action of asking what your story is about… that is the heart of the heart. Great advice. Thanks.
November 18, 2014 at 6:08 pm
kathydoherty1
Thanks for the suggestion to think things out first before trying to write the story. I can see the value in that approach.
November 18, 2014 at 6:10 pm
August Washington
Thank you for the great post. Too many times I have raced through my writing process and offered a story for critique long before it was ready. I must learn to control my excitement and work on something else, while I give the first story time to percolate😊
November 18, 2014 at 6:21 pm
Marcy P.
“I start to hear it, I start to hear my story. Then, and only then, do I write down the words.”
Love it. I’m going to try that 🙂
November 18, 2014 at 6:29 pm
Laura Rackham
My monkey mind likes this approach…:)
November 18, 2014 at 6:29 pm
melsul09
Thank you for the great advice. just stop and think. I will try it.
November 18, 2014 at 6:33 pm
Tarryn Lean (@TarrynLean)
I do not live by the theory ‘write everyday’ i am a big believer in ‘writing when the time is right’, right being when the story has simmered in a pot until it is ready to serve into words and when the time is available for you to do that serving justice (not 10 minutes chunks in between afternoon sport car pooling, stirring real dinner, washing, settling kids and bath time) so thank you for this wonderful piece that helped me see that what I am doing is writing (insert air quote gestures) because others who strongly believe in the write everyday theory have often made me feel like I am not a real writer because I am not pumping out page after page of writing every single day. Thanks again, I’m off to “write”.
November 18, 2014 at 6:36 pm
Christine M. Irvin
Great advice. Thanks for sharing!
November 18, 2014 at 6:40 pm
Joanne Roberts
I love your idea and everthing about this post. Your method sounds so like mine. I’ve thought about “thinking” more, but am easily distracted. I have a confession . . . I’m terrified to try this. Why is that? Please consider exploring this topic more on your blog!
November 18, 2014 at 6:44 pm
Meridth Gimbel (@Meridth_Gimbel)
Thanks for your post. I do often rush in without thinking about the overall story so thanks for your advice!
November 18, 2014 at 6:45 pm
Kathleen
Thinking more and writing less. Sounds a lot like measure twice, cut once. Evaluating various voices, POVs, even the beginning until it’s right. So often, the rush to get it down before it gets lost causes me to lose focus. Thank you for the idea to slow down and think about it.
November 18, 2014 at 7:01 pm
tanjabauerle
To hear your story beforenyou begin writing. I love it. Thank yoout to inspiration. T.
November 18, 2014 at 7:02 pm
laurazarrin
This is such a good idea! Now I won’t feel so guilty about all the thinking I’m doing instead of writing.
November 18, 2014 at 7:15 pm
Laurie L Young
Ideas do beget ideas (which is why this month is so awesome!) But it’s good to be reminded to take the time to let them fully develop.
November 18, 2014 at 7:20 pm
shirley johnson
I actually do this as part of the process. It is nice to get confirmation that it is ok.. Great Post! Thanks for sharing.
November 18, 2014 at 7:22 pm
Kaye Baillie
Dev, I love your thinking. I will be doing more of this kind of planning.
November 18, 2014 at 7:35 pm
cindyjohnson2013
Thanks for the excellent advice, Dev. Sometimes writing is thinking.
November 18, 2014 at 7:38 pm
Stephanie Shaw
Thank you. The last week has been a struggle as I try to write some text to support an illustrator. I am totally stuck on one idea — and it is just ‘meh’. Going to step away from the computer now and let my mind wander a bit.
November 18, 2014 at 7:46 pm
Kara Stewart
What a great tip about voice – trying different povs until you hear the story. Also love the tip about making sure to ask yourself, “What is this story about?” That really would help frame the story tighter. Thanks!
November 18, 2014 at 7:55 pm
jshaklan
Your prescription for good thinkin’ is good thinkin’! Thanks for the solid advice!
November 18, 2014 at 7:56 pm
Julie Murphy
Physicists and Picture Book writers can be hard at work while staring absently out the window! Great post.
November 18, 2014 at 8:01 pm
Cathy Breisacher
I love these suggestions. And, this line that you wrote sums things up so well: “WHAT IS THIS STORY ABOUT? (Hint: the answer does not have your main character’s name in it) If I can’t answer that, I’m not ready to write the story. Period.” I have found this to be so true. Thank you for sharing these tips.
November 18, 2014 at 8:03 pm
Deb Dunn
Dev, I am grateful for your red light. Er, I mean green light. To STOP and think. For the first time in 10 years of writing I tried the method you describe. Not intentionally. It just happened. And it worked! I’m now forcing myself to do the same for my next new story – let it bake and rise before writing it down.
November 18, 2014 at 8:22 pm
katrinamoorebooks
Thanks for the reminder to stop and think!
November 18, 2014 at 8:25 pm
Anita Banks
Thank you for the post. I sometimes think I over think. Heehee
November 18, 2014 at 8:35 pm
Janine Johns
Great advice. Thanks for a fabulous post!
November 18, 2014 at 8:40 pm
Michele Prestininzi
Thanks for the great post. What a great reminder to just go for a walk and think!
November 18, 2014 at 8:48 pm
Zach Roush
Good encouragement especially with the thought we don’t need to write everyday….we should take the time to think our story through.
November 18, 2014 at 8:51 pm
Carol Nelson
Think…great idea! I love the idea of playing with the story in your head and considering the possibilities before committing them to paper
November 18, 2014 at 8:55 pm
Genetta Adair
What a great way to allow the story to be more organic and less forced! I’m going to give this a try. Thanks!
November 18, 2014 at 8:59 pm
erikammon
“I try my story in my head in different ways: Traditional, present tense, past tense, third person, sparse, only in dialogue, repetitive, wordless.”
I love it! Thank you Dev for the suggestion. Now, let’s see if I remember to try it…
November 18, 2014 at 9:02 pm
spinksc
Cute picture book idea! Good advice to play with the story in different ways first.
November 18, 2014 at 9:04 pm
Cathy Sledz
Wonderful and welcome advice – to keep things fluid, as wells as to give ourselves some room & time. Many thanks!
November 18, 2014 at 9:19 pm
Heather Pierce Stigall
Wonderful advice. I do think my stories come out better when I think about them a lot first and periodically throughout the writing process as well. I hear my stories best when I’m running or in the shower. It’s getting that voice I hear and the pictures I see down on paper that is the trouble!
November 18, 2014 at 9:21 pm
CJ Lucas
I like the way you think. Thank you for the advise.
November 18, 2014 at 9:28 pm
Claire O'Brien
Great post, thanks!
November 18, 2014 at 9:41 pm
Tracy
I tend to do this as well: get an idea and think about it (some might argue think “too much”/overanalyze) ~ I need to find the perfect balance. Great post, good to know I’m not the only one who spends some of their “write every day” time to thinking.
** Love the purple toenails! 🙂 (and the shoes – since we are well into winter boot weather now)
November 18, 2014 at 9:43 pm
Jane Heitman Healy
Dev, this post is a keeper!” Can my idea be expressed as a metaphor or in a way that’s deeper?”….”Finally, before I ever write a word, I force myself to ask myself this most basic question. WHAT IS THIS STORY ABOUT?” Great advice to make a story all it can be. Thank you!
November 18, 2014 at 9:44 pm
Freckled Daisy Creations
Great post! Great advice! I’ll just take some time and….
November 18, 2014 at 9:47 pm
Keila Dawson
Simmer and stea works for me too. I rarely start writing before mulling over voice, characters, plot, etc in the shower, while cooking or discusing with my dog or cat. Ha.
November 18, 2014 at 9:48 pm
Jennifer Larson
Wow! I like your process! I do the first part, but I am gonna have to quit “monkeying around” and try the second part. Just Love it! 😃
November 18, 2014 at 9:50 pm
Lynn Alpert
Thanks for the reminder to not rush into a shallow story. I think great ideas need time to percolate!
November 18, 2014 at 9:51 pm
nicolezoltack
Thanks for the advice!
November 18, 2014 at 9:56 pm
kckass
This is a very zen way of doing things. That’s awesome. I like the advice, I’m just afraid I’d forget what I thought the day before if I don’t take notes!
November 18, 2014 at 9:59 pm
Hélène Sabourin
Interesting point. So true!
November 18, 2014 at 10:07 pm
Meghan Daniels
Thank you for this post! Lately I’ve been really enjoying thinking about my idea but i feel like I should be getting them on the page.Thanks to PiBoIdMo I will write the idea down so I don’t lose it and thanks to you, I’ll stop feeling guilty for spending so much time thinking about writing instead of actually writing.
November 18, 2014 at 10:15 pm
Sarah Skolfield
I like hearing about different writing methods and this one suits me. I would say I have been a practicing thinker-writer for a year or more. Have not perfected the method yet but will continue to practice!
November 18, 2014 at 10:16 pm
Caroline
Absolutely love this perspective, Dev. I’m learning that letting it marinate and thinking on an idea while doing other activities (other than staring at the computer screen, that is) is helping. Love getting to read about this part of the process from you!
November 18, 2014 at 10:37 pm
Carrie Charley Brown
Tiny little baby stories! I love it! And it’s true! I need more time to think for sure… if only we could stay in the shower all day. 🙂 It’s a first-rate Think Tank.
November 18, 2014 at 10:41 pm
Lauri Meyers
This post gave me chills. It sounds right. But it also sounds scary. And though I don’t think I trust my brain to properly store ponderings, I do think I can really fundamentally change the way I brainstorm stories. Also, I feel like the answer to “monkey or no monkey” is always pretty clearly monkey.
November 19, 2014 at 10:22 pm
Tracy
This made me laugh, too true. (the “monkey or no monkey” answer is always “pretty clearly monkey”.)
November 18, 2014 at 10:48 pm
Buffy Silverman
Great post–going off to think so some ideas will breed ideas!
November 18, 2014 at 10:56 pm
Tracy Molitors
Thanks for sharing this perspective, Dev!
November 18, 2014 at 11:01 pm
rmcg14
Yes! Great advice! Thank you for validating for me that “writing” in the hammock IS actual writing. 🙂
November 18, 2014 at 11:03 pm
Deborah Patz
Lovely concept of pacing and mindfulness. Thanks.
November 18, 2014 at 11:06 pm
Carol Gordon Ekster
Great advice, Dev. And congrats on your upcoming release.
November 18, 2014 at 11:16 pm
Jan Watford
Interesting idea. If you are an author and illustrator like me, you know that the text for a picture book can be written very quickly compared to 32 illustrations. These can take along time complete and it does take many days and nights to complete just one book. I think it does help to take a break from things every once in awhile.
November 18, 2014 at 11:31 pm
Christy Bagasao
Ahhhh, “thinking.” I’ll give it the old college try.
November 18, 2014 at 11:36 pm
Theresa Love
Simmer, let the ideas evolve. It’s great to have permission to cultivate your ideas. Thank you Dev, a timely post.
November 18, 2014 at 11:36 pm
becki wilson
Thank you, Dev~ it feels like sculpting, like making art (and isn’t it just that?)
Getting in there with it, being active, then stepping away, or at least back some in order to gain perspective… turning it around, seeing it from different places, listening to what it is saying~ a dance, a story dance!
November 18, 2014 at 11:47 pm
goodfish78
My favorite section of your post: Finally, before I ever write a word, I force myself to ask myself this most basic question. WHAT IS THIS STORY ABOUT? (Hint: the answer does not have your main character’s name in it) If I can’t answer that, I’m not ready to write the story. Period.
I have to rework many manuscripts based on this one concept. Thank you for inspiring me to imagine.
November 18, 2014 at 11:56 pm
Yvonne Mes
Ah, just the post I needed to show my husband. 🙂
November 19, 2014 at 12:03 am
Mindy Alyse Weiss
Thanks, Dev! I love how much stronger a first draft can be after you think about the initial idea for a while before writing it. What a great reminder to take some time to think through our best PiBoIdMo ideas before plowing into new first drafts.
November 19, 2014 at 12:09 am
Sally R. Flannery
Okay, now tell me how to stop thinking! Ahhhhh….
November 19, 2014 at 12:10 am
Heather Kelso
“I want to go to there”. That place of thinking where all the magic happens.
November 19, 2014 at 12:10 am
Cindy S
This is good advice. If it helps get to the real story then I’m all for it.
November 19, 2014 at 12:26 am
Heather E.
I appreciated this post. I’ve been feeling so overwhelmed by having so many ideas swirling in my head that I haven’t been able to write. This is giving me permission to let them brew. Thanks!
November 19, 2014 at 12:42 am
Sherry Walz
Great advice, Dev! Thanks for sharing.
November 19, 2014 at 12:55 am
Cassandra Federman
Great advice, great post! Really important stuff! Thanks
November 19, 2014 at 1:04 am
Maria Bostian
I loved this post! Sometimes, I get so frantic to write down my ideas that I really don’t think them thru all the way. I love this idea. Thanks for reminding us that simple pleasures like walks, breaks, sitting outside, etc. can be as valuable to the process as putting pen to paper!
November 19, 2014 at 1:07 am
bucherwurm65
I will slow it down and do more thinking. Maybe I will even produce a few “tiny little baby stories!”
November 19, 2014 at 1:11 am
artsfusionmethod
I really appreciate your honesty. I know everyone has a writer’s philosophy…even if it’s to be philosophy free! But, I most appreciate a genuine author with her/ his own voice. In a way, I also feel we owe it to young readers to be who we are and not owned by “The Industry”. Thank you for your offering during PiBoIdMo.
November 19, 2014 at 1:19 am
Ashley Bankhead
Thank you for this post. I enjoyed hearing your thoughts on writing picture books. I also like your idea on thinking. It is good to let an idea simmering and cook. Often that is when the best ideas come about. It is time for me to get thinking. And then writing. Thank you again for your post.
November 19, 2014 at 1:20 am
Tina Hoggatt
So enjoyed this post. We are so oriented to interacting with the page. Thanks for honoring the slow interior process.
November 19, 2014 at 1:25 am
Susan Schade
Thank you! I loved this! Words of inspiration.
November 19, 2014 at 1:49 am
angiekarcher
I LOVE this post! The thinking is my favorite part! I say my ideas are “brewing” like a lovely chair tea. I do the same thing with titles. I come up with a catchy title and it sits in my brain for a long time until the story comes. Then I get to write. Isn’t this the best job in the world!
November 19, 2014 at 2:38 am
Maria Marshall
Oh, Dev! I love monkeys. And bears. And birds… Now if only we had a bit more sun here. But even splatters of rain can inspire flights of fancy as I walk. What a great post – permission to think and dream!
November 19, 2014 at 3:41 am
Kira Kia Fruit Nims
Words of wisdom 🙂
November 19, 2014 at 6:36 am
Rebekah Hoeft
I love this concept…maybe it will make household chores more palatable-cleaning the kitchen? No, just “writing”!!
Do you take any notes during your thinking time? I would be worried the best idea would slip away.
November 19, 2014 at 7:27 am
Genevieve Petrillo
I do that thinking stuff to a less detailed degree (that could be the problem here). I call it “mind-writing.”
November 19, 2014 at 8:38 am
Andrea
Thinking time is so important! I definitely don’t spend enough time just thinking through the possibilities or letting my mind wander.
November 19, 2014 at 9:51 am
Mark A. Bentz
Dev, Your method of writing works. Thank you so much for
being a part of PiboIdMo.
November 19, 2014 at 10:11 am
Celeste Elbert
That first paragraph sounded exactly like me. So I was relieved to see the other paragraphs that gave me hope!
November 19, 2014 at 10:21 am
cantsing1
Love this! I do work some that way. And glad to hear part of my process works! I do draft (only pen an ink), but then I cogitate: work out, walk dog, avoid work, nap, let days go by. Ideas start to come. Change . . . Thnak you!
November 19, 2014 at 10:23 am
Cat Clerkin
Very interesting! I love the idea that not writing stuff down allows you to ‘live’ the characters and stories. I will definitely add this technique to my treasure box. 🙂
November 19, 2014 at 10:29 am
rowenarae
I like this idea a lot. Will give it a try! Thanks, Dev!
November 19, 2014 at 10:58 am
Stephen S. Martin
Always a good idea to once in awhile to STOP – smell the coffee, the roses, the subway!
November 19, 2014 at 10:59 am
Sheri Rad
This sounds like a good approach but …I don’t think I sit and think about it until I have written a rough draft so I won’t forget the idea. I may need to BIC longer on stories.
Thanks for your insight.
November 19, 2014 at 11:02 am
storyfairy
This sounds like a good idea. Makes me want to try my old childhood habit of running when I think. 🙂 -Lily Stejskal
November 19, 2014 at 11:05 am
Maria Oka
Oh my goodness. I needed this post!! I used to write first, think later, but have been coming to the same conclusion…letting my ideas bake in my mind a bit more before actually letting them out. Thank you, thank you for this post! Can’t wait to read I Don’t Want to be a Frog!
November 19, 2014 at 11:15 am
Karen
Thank you for putting structure around what could be a very organic process. For me, anyway, it is. 🙂
November 19, 2014 at 11:18 am
Kelly Ramsdell Fineman
Senior visual effects artist on The Matrix? DEV IS MY HERO!
Oh. And thanks, too, for the writing advice, which is spot on. I don’t always work that way, but when I do, it goes very well indeed. (Yeah, I’m a slow learner sometimes, and should try harder to make this my “official” process.)
November 19, 2014 at 11:40 am
Mary Uhles
great post! I once saw a graphic that said 90% of writing was staring off into space (maybe from a previous PiBoIdMo?) After that i didn’t feel so bad about doing it;)
November 19, 2014 at 12:00 pm
viviankirkfield
Thanks, Dev…this is an idea whose time has come…deciding what the story question or what the story is about (in one sentence 🙂 ) is a great way to get direction for a manuscript.
And congrats on your book…it looks like so much fun! Gribbet!!!
November 19, 2014 at 12:05 pm
ducks33
Great advice, thank you. I too want to write it all down at once, and then obsess about grammar and word choice, when it is the heart of the story that still needs work.
November 19, 2014 at 12:11 pm
Andi
What a great perspective! Sometimes a microwave approach is the way to go with my illustrations, sometimes they need the longer, mellowing of a traditional oven. Thanks so much for sharing your process! a : )
November 19, 2014 at 12:28 pm
Rachel Anderson
Thanks Dev. Good food for thought!
November 19, 2014 at 12:41 pm
Jill Tadros (@PopTheWall)
Wonderful advice!!
November 19, 2014 at 1:22 pm
Elizabeth McBride
Dev, this is absolutely true for me! It is always a whole new story a few months down the road. The early versions can often have too much in them too – not enough clarity. Thank you!
November 19, 2014 at 1:38 pm
zebrakitchens
OOOh I love the sandals, by the way.
I understand Charles Schultz did some of his best writing just sitting at his desk thinking. I love this, especially the truth in the question, “What is this story about?” If you can’t answer that, go back to thinking.
November 19, 2014 at 2:32 pm
Emily Goldstein
Thank you! (and super cute shoes)
November 19, 2014 at 3:54 pm
laura516
Very out-of-the-box. Something new to try!
November 19, 2014 at 3:56 pm
Wendy
I have been working on this, Dev! Trying to make sure the story I write is worthy of my time–and that the idea is as good as it can be. Good ideas are easy. Great ideas have to be steeped and simmered. Great post.
November 19, 2014 at 4:03 pm
furfilled
I love this post, because it’s how I like to “write”. It’s nice to know that I’m not alone. Also, love this quote: “Ideas breed ideas, so it’s like you’re making tiny little baby stories while you’re bringing the first one into the world.” So true. By the time I’m close to finishing one story, I always seem to have a few more new ideas to add to my to-write list.
November 19, 2014 at 4:40 pm
Anna Totten
This is a great way to consider the next steps after generating fodder from PiBoIdMo.
November 19, 2014 at 5:24 pm
Pauline Johnson
I love how you develop your ideas and give them time to simmer. Many a writer I know, including myself, get great ideas in the shower, driving, waking up from dreaming. What I love about PiBo is that we can still jot those ideas down and get excited about them. One or two will really catch our attention and over the coming weeks or months we can let them develop. Where I differ is that I find writing something down, even if it’s brainstorming or a loose draft, gives me the oomph and commitment to come back. I have it down, lousy draft or not, and it hasn’t escaped me. Thinking too much, for me, is sometimes where I lose interest. Pantzer. Balance between the two may be the recipe for me! Thanks for this, it really does help fo that simmering phase!
November 19, 2014 at 5:49 pm
Julie
Thanks for the neat perspective.
November 19, 2014 at 7:06 pm
Laurie J. Edwards
Love the advice to ask what it’s about. Such an important question!
November 19, 2014 at 7:25 pm
Ellen Sirianni
Wonderful advice. Thanks for sharing.
November 19, 2014 at 7:44 pm
saputnam
Thank you for the great post, Dev! I love the idea of letting my stories simmer on the backburner for a while before writing them down.
November 19, 2014 at 8:05 pm
Carrie O'Neill
This is such great and timely advice. It’s so easy to just start ad end up writing myself into a corner. Thank you!
November 19, 2014 at 8:13 pm
Matt Tesoriero
Om. Thinking. Om. Ideas. Om……..
November 19, 2014 at 8:29 pm
writersideup
Thinking most definitely is important! 😀 I do a lot of thinking ON paper, too, or I won’t remember what I thought lol
November 19, 2014 at 9:16 pm
writeknit
Thanks for making me feel ok about “writing in my head” (doesn’t everyone???)
November 19, 2014 at 9:21 pm
ksw2
Fantastic tip! Such a welcome idea. Thank you!!
November 19, 2014 at 9:37 pm
lgalaske
Thank you for the encouragement to find and shape ideas in a fresh new way!
November 19, 2014 at 9:38 pm
pearlz
So true, I am doing this for a while on my chapter book, as well as doodling, watching inspiring tv shows, and going for walks, all the while, thinking, thinking… I think a critique would be an amazing prize to win, especially from someone so thoughtful.
November 19, 2014 at 9:39 pm
pearlz
Reblogged this on Pearlz Dreaming and commented:
Love this blog on the mindfulness process in writing, sometimes we need to take time to THINK ..
November 19, 2014 at 10:10 pm
Donna Rossman
Thanks for the great advise and love your purple toe polish! ❤
November 19, 2014 at 10:17 pm
MickiGinsberg
Dev, I am excited about trying your approach! It makes a lot of sense. Thanks for sharing.
November 19, 2014 at 11:01 pm
Prairie Garden Girl
Dev: Your method of finding your voice for your story is helpful and inspiring. Thank you for sharing your outstanding post. ~Suzy Leopold
November 20, 2014 at 12:25 am
MaryAnne Locher
Some of my stories come spilling out, demanding to be written down. Others need to be extracted, and require massaging, which has made me give up on them at times. Either way, I have to at least jot down the idea before it vaporizes. I do like the idea of lounging in the sun and thinking.
November 20, 2014 at 12:48 am
Holly Ruppel
Thinking is definitely underrated. Thanks for the inspiration, Dev!
November 20, 2014 at 1:34 am
Jenna Woloshyn
I get sleepy when I stop to think.
November 20, 2014 at 2:33 am
Sharon Giltrow
wise words thanks for showing me how an idea (or a baby idea) can become a great story
November 20, 2014 at 6:47 am
elle kwan
I used to “write” like this but I think I lost my patience in the race to get published, plus all those to-do, must do, wish I could do thoughts get in the way lately. Thanks to your post I am about to make more time to “write” in my head…
November 20, 2014 at 9:52 am
Maria J Cuesta
Think, Think Think. Thank you!!!
November 20, 2014 at 10:17 am
Donna L Martin
I think you hit the nail on the head with this post. I think some writers are so afraid their “muse” will run away that they fly to commit words to paper or screen without taking the time to drink it all in…to fully appreciate where an idea might lead them. In the end they find they traveled in the wrong direction and have to turn around. We all need to stop, catch our breath, and take a little time to allow only our best stories to be born…
Great post!
November 20, 2014 at 10:32 am
Heather Thurmeier
From experience, I say you have to write often enough to keep yourself in the habit, but not so often that you get burned out and don’t give your ideas a chance to marinate. I think too often people wait for their ‘muse’ to inspire them, but writing isn’t about a muse. It’s about putting your butt in a chair and getting to work.
November 20, 2014 at 10:51 am
kariail2013
I love your advice: “WHAT IS THIS STORY ABOUT? (Hint: the answer does not have your main character’s name in it) If I can’t answer that, I’m not ready to write the story. Period.” And yes thinking the ideas through and giving them time to “stew” and mix all the flavors together can make for a much tastier story!
November 20, 2014 at 11:50 am
Sadee Schilling
Loved this post. SO encouraging. I think and think and think about an idea too, sometimes for a loooooong time, before I ever write anything more than just a sentence or two to capture the thought. I figure if the idea keeps coming back to me and growing in my brain, it’s worth sitting down to put it on paper! 🙂
November 20, 2014 at 12:41 pm
girlwrites29
Great advice! I get stuck sometimes when I write everything down at once. I have a story now that I am trying to flesh out in my head. I do make notes so I don’t forget my ideas though:)
November 20, 2014 at 4:15 pm
Aidan Cassie
Great post. The daily walk is for thinking. Ruminating is often my daily writing. I jot notes to remind myself to chew on it again… now 20 story ideas are in there bumping around making idea babies, love it.
November 20, 2014 at 4:55 pm
angelapadron
This is great advice – I like to do this with walks along the beach or just around the block.
November 20, 2014 at 5:20 pm
Amelia Gossman
Great post, one of the most helpful I’ve read! Thanks so much!
November 20, 2014 at 5:20 pm
Lois Peterson
Thanks for the reminder to step back and mull over an idea before comitting it to paper. I tend to feel prematurely committed to the first insight or idea if I start the writing too soon.
November 20, 2014 at 5:24 pm
Vanessa Harvey
Thank you! I have so many friends who are novelists or at the very least write longer works than picture books. They are adamant about writing every day-x number of words or for x number of minutes. I have never been able to do this. Thank you for validating thinking and mulling and marinating a story before it gets written.
November 20, 2014 at 6:14 pm
cadmiumviolet
Doing more by doing less…I like it!
November 20, 2014 at 7:26 pm
Carrie Tillotson
I love this advice! As the parent of a busy toddler, I don’t always have a lot of time to sit down and write. But since my brain goes with my everywhere (ideally), I can always be thinking about my stories.
November 20, 2014 at 7:33 pm
Cathy Biggerstaff
I love your way of thinking, Dev! Thanks for sharing.
November 20, 2014 at 8:25 pm
Jenny Blum
Thanks, Dev, sounds liberating and I can’t wait to try it.
November 20, 2014 at 9:32 pm
Lauren Soloy
What an interesting post! You don’t hear this advice very often! I love the description of how you mentally play with an idea, though. It’s easy to get locked into something early, without really giving it enough thought in the beginning. I’ll try it!
November 21, 2014 at 1:51 am
Marge Gower
Great food for thought. Thanks for sharing.
November 21, 2014 at 2:37 am
wendymyersart
Interesting…my best paintings evolve from a similar process, and after thinking and thinking they seem to paint themselves in the end because I’ve already sorted out so many of the details in my head. Thanks for a great post. Love the purple toe nails! 🙂
November 21, 2014 at 5:20 am
Liz Steffenson
I think this is the best writing advice I have ever gotten. Thanks for sharing’!!
November 21, 2014 at 6:38 am
Joan Kassmann
That’s kind of what this month is about, isn’t it? Writing ideas down and letting them brew for a while … I enjoyed your post.
November 21, 2014 at 9:46 am
Kimberly Sprinkles Cowger
Definitely an interesting approach but not for everyone.
November 21, 2014 at 10:21 am
Sarah T
I like to let my ideas stew for awhile before I sit down to write. They tend to be more fully formed by then.
November 21, 2014 at 10:44 am
mkokeefe
This was wise advice, especially for someone like me who always rushes because I’m filled with inspiration and ideas. Stopping and stepping back is extremely important in the creative process! -MK O’Keefe
November 21, 2014 at 11:59 am
Susie
Very interesting. Thanks for the post.
November 21, 2014 at 12:33 pm
klmcmorranmaus
I do my best thinking in a hot shower – without kids. 🙂 Thank you for sharing.
November 21, 2014 at 12:44 pm
cindyluhu
I like to put the pot on the stove and stick the lid on and let it boil with ideas until the lid is ready to pop off, but I do this best when I write to generate ideas. Thanks for this post—I realized I need to write more about the story instead of trying to write the story itself.
November 21, 2014 at 1:24 pm
Nicole Turner
Thanks you so much, I have such a hard time with writing very day.
November 21, 2014 at 6:51 pm
Mary Zychowicz
That’s gives a feel of freedom. Trying to write everyday seems to defeat the creative process sometimes.
November 21, 2014 at 7:13 pm
Dani Duck
Love this post. I can’t believe I forgot to comment on it. We all need to remember to take a break in order to be better writers!
November 21, 2014 at 7:57 pm
Carrie Finison
I so agree with this. My best ideas almost always come when I am AWAY from the computer, and just letting my mind wander but with my story in mind. In fact, I’ll often read through a story I’m working on just before bed, and sometimes “dream” a solution to a problem.
November 21, 2014 at 11:06 pm
Didi Wood
I work this way, too … I just need to figure out how not to get mired in the “thinking.” ;p
November 22, 2014 at 12:56 am
SevenAcreSky
You pegged me Dev with the words ‘linear’ –as in flat. I have an idea, then string it out without thought and it ends up like a boring line graph. At then end of an undeveloped idea, the question arises “So what?”
Ideas must have time to cook but as you say, they won’t grow on their own. Thanks for the insight.
November 22, 2014 at 9:19 am
Sheri Dillard
Great advice! Thanks, Dev!
November 22, 2014 at 9:50 am
M Lapointe Malchik (@imartytweet)
Wow Dev! I feel as if this post was written for me. I need these brakes on the process. I am often guilty of not knowing what the story is about and getting attached to word play or rhyme or some other aspect that can wait until later. I can acknowledge that this is hard work despite the humor in the air quotes around thinking. Yes, to sit in the sun and think about monkeys is the work of a picture book writer honing her craft! Thank you!
November 22, 2014 at 10:06 am
Betsy Devany
Love how you look at your story from different angles. Wonderful advice! Thank you for your post.
November 22, 2014 at 12:52 pm
Lindsay Bonilla
I love that you say you need to be able to answer WHAT IS THIS STORY ABOUT? before you can write it.. great advice! Most days I don’t have time to write due to my 8 month old so this was encouraging as all I really can do is work out my ideas in my head.
November 22, 2014 at 10:11 pm
amymariesmith
Great advice Dev. Reminds me of a law school prof who told me thinking is writing.
November 23, 2014 at 12:29 am
AlenaT
Write less … I think I can do this one.
November 23, 2014 at 9:37 am
Loni Edwards (@LoniEdwards)
Thank you for your sound advice. In this busy, busy world we live in, we could all use a reminder to put on the brakes once in a while.
November 23, 2014 at 10:11 am
Karen Brueggeman
It’s nice to hear this…okay, pen down and time to think some more. Thanks.
November 23, 2014 at 12:14 pm
Stacey Shubitz
I have a critique partner whose mantra is “What is this really, really, really about?” It keeps me grounded. I think asking that question of oneself before getting ready to write is so important. Thanks for this reminder.
November 23, 2014 at 1:40 pm
Jessica Miller-Nims
I’m glad someone else considers thinking about your story and where you will go with it as “working”. It’s like plotting, or doing an outline in your head.
November 23, 2014 at 5:09 pm
Shari Della Penna
Thanks for “getting in my head” and reminding me to figure out what my story is really about.
November 23, 2014 at 8:25 pm
Rick Starkey
Thanks for the great post, and reminding me that it’s okay to not write.
November 24, 2014 at 9:27 am
authorshannonanderson
This really resonated with me. I need to think big picture more and be less linear. Thanks for explaining what I am doing! Great advice. 🙂
November 24, 2014 at 12:52 pm
Michelle Church
I think this is something I can really do. Thank you!
November 24, 2014 at 5:20 pm
Joan Waites
The best advice-“what is the story really about?” Thanks for the reminder!
November 25, 2014 at 4:30 am
rdvanhorn
I love your practical ideas for bringing together a picture book story.
November 25, 2014 at 9:27 am
Frances Brown
I think, therefore, I write? Good think, I mean, good thing… are those your thinking toes, with matching sandals? Looking forward to reading “I Don’t Want to be a Frog” – thanks Dev. 🙂
November 25, 2014 at 4:23 pm
Priya
Thinking, often we forget that this is a necessary part of the creating process if we want to make something that sticks and represents our voice. Thank you for showing that it takes time to think and come up with a good idea.
November 26, 2014 at 3:32 am
calisue
Great advice for getting to the main story
November 26, 2014 at 3:19 pm
Amanda Hopper
Thanks for the great advice!
November 27, 2014 at 5:52 pm
julietclarebell
I really like this. It takes confidence to know that ‘writing doesn’t always look like writing’ and believe that that’s not just an excuse to do things other than physically write. Thanks for the reminder! It’s very true.
November 28, 2014 at 4:58 am
S. Quinn-Schneck
I almost missed reading this blog as I’m trying to catch up a bit. But overall am still in the running to make it to 30! I really find that reading about strategies that work for other writers helps free me from the guilt–that I don’t write every day. I also do a lot of reflecting on the possibilities of a story –maybe this is more my style too. Thank you.
November 28, 2014 at 7:31 am
Nancy Kotkin
It’s true that ideas have to stew. Picture books offer the advantage of holding them in your head while you think, which isn’t possible with longer works.
November 28, 2014 at 7:46 am
artistadonna
thank you!
November 28, 2014 at 1:45 pm
natalie15
Thank you Dev! This is actually kind of a freeing approach!
November 28, 2014 at 7:48 pm
LL
this sounds like my friend’s approach: go to gym, write entire book while on treadmill/stairmaster/e-bike, go home and transcribe. Voila! And if he couldn’t remember it by the time he got home, then it wasn’t memorable enough to be published anyways.
November 28, 2014 at 7:53 pm
Kelley Nebosky
I really appreciate your point about focusing on the idea early on, instead of word choice and other “small stuff”. Thanks for sharing this helpful post!
November 28, 2014 at 9:57 pm
Kelly Hochbein
Great advice – ideas first! Thanks, Dev!
November 30, 2014 at 12:56 am
majanecka
Yes while I have to jot down a few thoughts so I don’t completely lose the idea I do like to mull it over awhile to tease it out a bit before committing it to paper.
November 30, 2014 at 2:13 am
lmquraishi
Dev, your practice really resonated with me. I keep your words in a sticky note on my computer screen to remind me to think, play around, know what my story’s about, and pay attention to the opening. Good practice for me!
November 30, 2014 at 7:30 am
lisakwillard
Thank you. I’ve found this month I’ve had more ideas on days I gave myself time to lie down and turn things around in my head.
November 30, 2014 at 5:28 pm
John Strong
I agree! I do the same thing. Most of my “writing” is done in my head. I have to feel solid about a story before committing down to page. Thank you!
November 30, 2014 at 6:57 pm
Heather Hatch
Thank you for organizing some of your hard thinking into a boost of a post for me!
November 30, 2014 at 8:13 pm
carolmunrojww
I’m glad you said this technique may not be for everyone, but I may try it anyway. I like to get my story down, print it out, then make loads of notes about where it could go, what I like, what I don’t like, what’s missing, and more. But I’m going to pick an idea from my list and stretch out on the couch with it to “write.” (Our deck is covered in snow.)
November 30, 2014 at 10:19 pm
Jason Perkins
Agree with everything you said. great read.
November 30, 2014 at 11:02 pm
bookseedstudio
Dear Dev,
Appreciations for the slow down and put on thinking cap route.
And- I DON”T WANT TO BE A FROG sounds like a winner.
Can’t wait to see the cover (& read what the story is really saying…)
~ j a n annino
December 1, 2014 at 12:23 am
Caroline Lee Webster (@uncoverthepearl)
Love this post. It reminds me of a writer I saw years ago, who said his process is often one of breathing in (ideas coming in, observation, sifting, thinking) and, eventually, breathing out . . . the actual act of writing. His work also comes in cycles. With so much advice out there to write, write, write, I appreciate hearing how stillness has helped you find your voice.
December 1, 2014 at 12:48 am
Kelly Parker
I think this will be a wonderful approach to take now that I have scrambled this month to get my ideas down. Thanks!
December 1, 2014 at 4:45 pm
Michael Vogel
This is good stuff. I actually am this way a little bit, probably to a fault. Sometimes I think I take to long before I put pen to paper or finger to keyboard.
December 2, 2014 at 1:22 am
Andrea J Loney
I’m intrigued by the idea of letting the story and characters really marinate and gel, as opposed to just throwing them together and popping out a book. Time is the fourth dimension and it’s easy to forget how powerful it is in the creative process.
December 2, 2014 at 2:49 pm
Daniela Weil
thank you . i will try the stopping mechanism today.
December 2, 2014 at 9:00 pm
Pia Garneau
Love the idea of letting thoughts marinate before writing a single word. Thank you for this post!
December 2, 2014 at 10:55 pm
Kathy Cornell Berman
Thanks Dev. You’re right about thinking. It is underrated. As you say, when we think more about the idea, it eventually comes out baked rather than doughy.
December 3, 2014 at 8:38 pm
Brian Humek
I need to start thinking more. I’ve stopped writing picture books for one year, but haven’t spent enough time thinking about individual titles.
December 4, 2014 at 1:45 pm
Amelia Shearer
It’s encouraging to hear that this isn’t a ‘lazy’ way to write. I have always felt guilty that the majority of my writing process is weeks or months of ‘thought work’ before pen goes to paper, but you are right, once I sit down to write there is much more focus and I’ve already done much of the revising in my head!
December 5, 2014 at 5:56 pm
Kelly Russell Jaques
Love this advice, Dev, thanks for the post