
by Sophie Chawluck
by Heidi Kilgras
Congratulations, PiBoIdMo participants. You made it! Give yourselves a round of applause before reflecting on your endeavor—to generate a bunch of new ideas for picture books, the greatest medium ever! Okay, I’m biased; I’m a children’s book editor! But, honestly…writing children’s books. Could there BE a greater privilege? I don’t think so. Knowing that your words and ideas are entertaining children, sparking their curiosity, creating lasting memories, impressions, and possibly a love of words/ideas/reading, or maybe even stimulating an interest in a subject that will influence their lives? Priceless. You are contributing to the literacy of the planet. You are reinforcing a loving bond between parent and child. And, in the simplest of terms, and no less important, you are delighting a child.
There is something I have to get off my chest. Sometimes children have terrible taste! There are some books that I never would have published in a million years. Bad writing, rotten plot, poor rhyme and meter, hideous illustrations.…And yet, for some reason the book is amusing enough for a child to want to hear it over and over. (“Who published this book and how did it get in my house?”) Even if a book doesn’t pass muster with me, at least I get to witness the joy it gives my son. Who am I to judge? Actually, I am one to judge whether books get published or not. And as such, I have a few tips to offer up.
You’ve heard this one before: be “original.” I know…it’s really, really hard to be entirely original. So throw in a twist or two or three to surprise the editor and, we hope, the eventual reader. The importance of originality extends to your “voice.” An original voice can make an editor see beyond a story’s flaws, envisioning the rewrites that you most certainly will have to do that could bring you closer to a contract! Think of your “voice” as your “special sauce.”
Have more than just a good idea—respect the craft. Publishers don’t publish good ideas; they publish great stories, wonderfully written (for the most part—see above. Let’s aim high, shall we?). Show your fascination with language. Ignite this fascination in others. Make the words sing. Aim to make the grown-up reading your book aloud seem like the most talented storyteller ever! The writing’s the thing.
On the other hand, don’t forget to leave some stuff out! You can, initially, fill your manuscript with every idea you had to reflect the story in your brain. Then either you (or the editor) will likely need to take some words out. Consider that the art will show things that are mentioned in the text, and even some things that aren’t. Both text and art need breathing room. Sometimes my favorite part of a picture book is the text that isn’t there, but there is a suggestion of what could be there that the reader’s mind fills in. Here is an apt quote (attributed to both Claude Debussy and Miles Davis): “Music is the space between the notes. It’s not the notes you play; it’s the notes you don’t play.”
Where the Wild Things Are and Olivia are two great examples of picture books that have subtext flowing beneath the (minimalist) words. Give the reader moments of discovery, moments of participation. Great art considers the collaborator. Your collaborators are the editor, the illustrator, and, ultimately, the eyes and the mind of the reader.
Lastly, have fun! If you aren’t having fun, what’s the point? I hope you have as much fun generating your own ideas as you do when you are reading the picture books that inspire you. The more inspired you are, the greater chance that your inspiration and delight will reach across the space between book and reader and fill him or her right up.
Good luck!
Heidi Kilgras is an Editorial Director at Random House Children’s Books. She also has experience managing a Scholastic Book Club, running a children’s-only bookstore, and being a book-buyer for a chain of stores. Heidi also writes picture books and beginning readers, and lives in Brooklyn, NY with her family.
Heidi is giving away a copy of LITTLE RED GLIDING HOOD, the book written by Tara and illustrated by Troy Cummings that she acquired and edited.
Leave a comment below to enter. One comment per person, please.
This prize will be given away at the conclusion of PiBoIdMo. You will be 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.
Good luck, everyone!
318 comments
Comments feed for this article
December 5, 2015 at 8:40 am
Sue Poduska
Good reminders. Thanks, Heidi!
December 5, 2015 at 8:47 am
Katie Engen
Love: Publishers don’t publish good ideas; they publish great stories, wonderfully written. And: Your collaborators are…ultimately, the eyes and mind of the reader.Thx!
December 5, 2015 at 8:52 am
Bruna De Luca
Inspiring post. Feeling gooey and gushy about picture books.
December 5, 2015 at 8:53 am
reluctantspy
Yay!
December 5, 2015 at 8:58 am
Brianna Zamborsky
Love the comparison with Debussy/Davis quote. So smart. Thanks!
December 5, 2015 at 9:02 am
Sherri Jones
Always good to hear from an editor. Good food for thought here.
December 5, 2015 at 9:02 am
Cathy Breisacher
This post is filled with powerful lines that I am going to print out and reread many times. “Aim to make the grown-up reading your book aloud seem like the most talented storyteller ever!” and “Music is the space between the notes.” Great stuff. This is just what I needed to read this morning. Many thanks!
December 5, 2015 at 9:15 am
Linda Hofke
we’ve receivved books as gifts before that we not so well written but went over really well with our daughter. Sometimes it was cute illustrations that did the trick, other times an animal or theme she liked, or a silly situation. Others…I have no clue.
December 5, 2015 at 9:16 am
sunroksus
Heidi, Thank you. I agree with you. The message sings between the lines and comes from a heart filled with music.
December 5, 2015 at 9:26 am
vickireinhardt2014
“Music is the space between the notes.” I can’t quit thinking about this quote. It’s one I’m not going to forget. After reading your post, I’m inspired to go through all my stories and allow them to breathe. Thank you for this. Sometimes it’s hard for a writer to imagine that less can be more through an editor’s eyes. Valuable advice! =)
December 5, 2015 at 9:36 am
Sharon Nix Jones
Thank you for your advice. I will now attempt to find the recipe for my “secret sauce.”
December 5, 2015 at 9:37 am
Darlene
Good tips to incorporate into my picture books. Thank you so much.
December 5, 2015 at 9:40 am
lmconnors
It’s great to hear an editor’s perspective. Thank you!
December 5, 2015 at 9:40 am
Katelyn Aronson
I loved every single point this article made: 1) surprise at certain things that get published & bought! 2) the struggle to be original 3) voice as secret sauce 4) choosing words that sing 5) leaving space for the story to breathe. Golden! Thank you, Heidi.
December 5, 2015 at 9:41 am
Red said what?
Wonderful post. Thank you, Heidi! Best-Jennifer Reinharz
December 5, 2015 at 9:45 am
fishpatti
Thank you so much for this post. I will come back to it again and again!
December 5, 2015 at 9:46 am
rebeccawiseeklund
Thank you, Heidi, for the reminders and the insights and the inspirations!
December 5, 2015 at 9:46 am
kylie burns
Your post was excellent, Heidi. I was giggling to myself about the secret sauce – the commercial for the “Frank’s Red-Hot” sauce came to mind! Here’s to adding flavor through voice! -Kylie Burns
December 5, 2015 at 9:47 am
Tina Cho
I like that musical quote! Thanks for sharing your wisdom!
December 5, 2015 at 9:47 am
Samantha Altmann
Excellent post! Thank you!
December 5, 2015 at 9:48 am
yangmommy
A Scholastic Book Fair “queen” myself, I often run across books that make me blink 2,3,10 times in wonder as to how they ever got published! But rather than boxing them back up, I read them over. There’s got to be something in there that makes them sell, right? Well, I don’t always find it 🙂 I enjoyed every single one of your tips, Heidi as they are reminders to keep on trucking. Thanks 🙂
December 5, 2015 at 9:48 am
MaryLee Flannigan
Heidi – thank you for your advice – I will think of you when I hear “special sauce” from now on.
December 5, 2015 at 9:48 am
Lynn A. Davidson
Heidi, thank you for this. I love your passion for books.
I sense rhythm in everything. I like the order of words, the pictures in the words (those spaces between the notes), and the comfort and satisfaction that comes from a good story. I hope the manuscripts I have ready and the ones to be prepared [will] flow like that.
Years ago I was flabbergasted to find, in one of my children’s books about animals, the illustrator had given a duck chicken feet. Really? Not only the words have to work.
Striving to be original (and accurate where it counts) in my stories. Thanks again, Heidi, and thanks so much Tara for ALL this.
December 5, 2015 at 9:55 am
Patricia Valdez
Great post! I love the idea of special sauce. 🙂
December 5, 2015 at 9:56 am
saputnam
What a terrific post, Heidi! Thank you for sharing your editor’s perspective on writing picture books. I love the Debussy/Davis quote, “Music is the space between the notes. It’s not the notes you play; it’s the notes you don’t play.” From now on I’m going to strive to leave space for my stories to breathe.
December 5, 2015 at 9:58 am
Jennifer Bower
Thank you Heidi. I like thinking about my voice as a “special sauce.” That gives me a whole new perspective. And you are right, if it isn’t fun (whether you ever get published or not) what is the point? Thanks again!
December 5, 2015 at 10:01 am
ManjuBeth
Heidi, I appreciate your advice and passion for picture books. The more PBs I read and write, the more I love layered stories. We are lucky to create mind expanding art for all who wish to enter our stories.
December 5, 2015 at 10:04 am
Kathryn Kass
Writing is the space between the words. That is so true.
December 5, 2015 at 10:04 am
Cindy E. Owens
Thank you, Heidi, for this wonderful article. For those of us who have not found our writer’s “voice,” what tips would you offer to help find it? I have to agree with the others…that “special sauce” is hilarious. 🙂
December 5, 2015 at 10:05 am
Laura Rackham
It shouldn’t be so hard to remember to have fun😄
December 5, 2015 at 10:05 am
pathaap
Great advice, Heidi!
December 5, 2015 at 10:08 am
Shelly Hawley-Yan
Wonderful reminders – thank you!
December 5, 2015 at 10:11 am
Lotus Ivak
Wonderful post Heidi! Thank you!
December 5, 2015 at 10:13 am
Mary Zychowicz
Thank you for your editorial perspective. That’s very helpful.
December 5, 2015 at 10:14 am
Jennifer Bagan
Thank you so much for a great post!
December 5, 2015 at 10:14 am
Polly Renner
Thank you Heidi for your perspective as an editor:)
December 5, 2015 at 10:15 am
Beth Gallagher
Fabulous post, Heidi! Thanks for the inspiration to use our unique and well crafted voice to get our marvelous ideas actually published! 🙂
December 5, 2015 at 10:21 am
Ashley Bohmer
These are wonderful reminders. Thank you! 👍🏻
December 5, 2015 at 10:25 am
Laura K Zimmermann
Thank you for the wonderful post!
December 5, 2015 at 10:26 am
rgstones
Thank you, Heidi. Great post! I love the quote about music and am going to hang it in my office. 🙂
December 5, 2015 at 10:33 am
Robyn Campbell
I tell folks this all the time. Writers (especially) new writers have a hard time grasping this. And even experienced writers have to be reminded of this from time to time. I love the way you put it here. . 🙂
December 5, 2015 at 10:36 am
Donna Rossman
Thank you, Heidi for the inspiration!
“Make the words sing. Aim to make the grown-up reading your book aloud seem like the most talented storyteller ever!” I know these words will stay with me forever. 🙂
December 5, 2015 at 10:38 am
ptnozell
Thank you, Heidi, for sharing your great tips to bring those ideas to reality!
December 5, 2015 at 10:38 am
Joanne Roberts
Having more than just a good idea, giving the reader moments of participation, these are phrases that will carry me through the drafts to come. So thought-provoking. Thank-you!
December 5, 2015 at 10:38 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Great tips and my favorite was the last – Have FUN! This is not an easy process but without delighting in the process from start to finish, as you said “what’s the point?”
December 5, 2015 at 10:41 am
Jenifer McNamara
Enjoyed the post. And Good Luck to all with your PB ideas!
December 5, 2015 at 10:42 am
Debra Shumaker
I think someone else said this above, but it can’t be said often enough: Publishers don’t publish good ideas, they publish great stories, wonderfully written. Thanks for a great post!
December 5, 2015 at 10:42 am
Leah
One year my class fell in love with a book that I thought was torturous poorly written. It gave me motivation to try to write something better.
December 5, 2015 at 10:51 am
Rebecca Colby
As you say, “the writing’s the thing.” Great post! Thanks, Heidi!
December 5, 2015 at 10:52 am
susangmathis
So excited to get started. Thanks for the encouragement.
December 5, 2015 at 10:54 am
Cathy Sledz
Thank you for the specificity and inspiration in this post!
December 5, 2015 at 10:57 am
Anjali Amit
“music is the space between the notes.” A pot is useful for the empty space it encloses. Thank you for sharing.
December 5, 2015 at 10:58 am
Della Ross Ferreri
Loved reading this! Just what I needed to put some sparkly ooomph in my special sauce! Thank you, Heidi!
Della
December 5, 2015 at 11:00 am
Linda Baie
Thank you! Wordiness seems to be what I do often, so glad you made it clear to STOP!
December 5, 2015 at 11:02 am
Constance Norris Van Hoven
Thank you for your post!
December 5, 2015 at 11:04 am
Elizabeth Brown
Thank you for your fantastic post, Heidi!
December 5, 2015 at 11:09 am
writerjodimoore
Fantastic post…each and every word resonates, like a perfect picture book. Thank you and many hugs, Jodi 🙂
December 5, 2015 at 11:13 am
Teresa Robeson
“It’s the notes you don’t play”…that’s really deep and something I have to keep in mind for my mss from now on (as well as “throw in some surprises”). Thanks for that piece of wisdom, Heidi!
December 5, 2015 at 11:13 am
Lynne Marie
Thanks for the song 🙂
December 5, 2015 at 11:13 am
Joan Waites
All good things to remember going forward with our PB ideas. Thanks!
December 5, 2015 at 11:17 am
Dorothy Massey
A great article. My son’s a guitarist and he once told me the best musicians know when to leave a space. I do try to apply this to my writing.
December 5, 2015 at 11:17 am
dbyatt
As an illustrator as well, I’m always thinking of what I can reveal in the art rather than the text. Thanks for a great post!
December 5, 2015 at 11:20 am
Anna L. Russell
Thanks for your time to share with us. Too much, tease, imagination.
December 5, 2015 at 11:27 am
Christine Rodenbour
Aiming to make my reader the best storyteller ever…I like that. Thanks for the great tips!
December 5, 2015 at 11:31 am
Traci Bold
Thank you Heidi for sharing your insight of this fabulous writing community. Your passion for the work you do shows and makes me work harder to bring editors like you the best of the best PB manuscripts. Afterall, we share the same passion.
December 5, 2015 at 11:38 am
carolmunrojww
These tips need to be posted at the end of a stick protruding from my forehead where I’ll always see them. 😉 Thanks, Heidi, for your POV.
December 5, 2015 at 11:39 am
Sandie Sing
When I am editing my story on the tenth round, I will begin to pick on the language and aim to make the words sing. The writing may be the thing, but the priority at the beginning is to get the story down before the idea runs away from me. Thank you for alerting me to add my special sauce. The topping to the writing.
December 5, 2015 at 11:42 am
Dee Knabb
I love your passion for writing/publishing stories that delight and enrich. Some of what sits on bookshelves does not inspire. Your advice is exactly what I want to hear. Thank you, Heidi!
December 5, 2015 at 11:44 am
twirlnextdoor
Great post!
December 5, 2015 at 11:45 am
Janice Milusich
Thanks Heidi
December 5, 2015 at 11:46 am
awflitter
How helpful to hear the perspective from the “other half” of the equation, that talented group that takes our written and visual art to its glorious conclusion! I love the reminder to leave something out. Discovery and participation are what make Picture Books such a delight. Great post, Heidi!
December 5, 2015 at 11:46 am
Martti Maguet
Thankyou for your advice. I’m off to find the space between the notes 🙂
December 5, 2015 at 11:46 am
Laurie Daley
Thanks for relating the quote to writing. I hope that is one that will stick with me.
December 5, 2015 at 11:46 am
Maria Marshall
Thank you, Heidi for the reminder that so much occurs in the space between the notes, or words.
December 5, 2015 at 11:47 am
David McMullin
I love hearing from the editors. Thank you for your time, Heidi.
December 5, 2015 at 11:50 am
Colleen Paeff
Great advice, Heidi. Thanks! 🙂
December 5, 2015 at 11:51 am
Sandra Jenkins
Time to mix up some singing sauce!
December 5, 2015 at 11:54 am
Alice Fulgione
Thanks, Heidi!
December 5, 2015 at 11:57 am
Susan Cabael
Time to work on my voice with special sauciness and leave enough white space for all.
December 5, 2015 at 12:00 pm
Mary Warth
Thanks Heidi for sharing your perspective!
December 5, 2015 at 12:02 pm
Teresa Daffern
Excellent post. Thanks for this.
December 5, 2015 at 12:08 pm
Amy Smith
Lots of good reminders. Thanks, Heidi
December 5, 2015 at 12:11 pm
danielledufayet
Your voice is your special sauce…nice! Thank you for sharing.:)
December 5, 2015 at 12:25 pm
Trine
Thank you for this encouragement today to press on and to have fun!
December 5, 2015 at 12:31 pm
Priya
“Both text and art need breathing room”
Thank you, this is a good way to revise may story. Leave things out and let the story breathe.
December 5, 2015 at 12:32 pm
Cassie Bentley
Thank you Heidi, for an editor’s insight about great and not so great books.
December 5, 2015 at 12:35 pm
barbarabockman
Thanks, Heidi, for reminding us of the important basics of picture book writing and for inspiring us to write good/better books.
December 5, 2015 at 12:43 pm
nicole greci
Great post!
December 5, 2015 at 12:44 pm
Carolyn Rohrbaugh
Thank you for this interesting post
December 5, 2015 at 12:50 pm
Nila Jean Spencer
Thanks, Heidi, for your excellent tips. My Junior League committee (charity group) is collecting books to establish free libraries for our community and underserved communities. We would love to receive a copy of Little Red Gliding Hood to add to our collection.
December 5, 2015 at 12:52 pm
seekerjules
Great quote and a wonderful post. Thank you!
December 5, 2015 at 12:54 pm
Jane Heitman Healy
wow, what a great post! And yes to those books that kids like that I don’t–what’s with that? Looking for my special sauce….Thanks, Heidi!
December 5, 2015 at 12:58 pm
Lori Alexander
Great to hear. So difficult to decide what not to include in the manuscript. Thanks for the advice.
December 5, 2015 at 1:02 pm
Kristen Schroeder
I loved hearing from an editor. So many good points!
December 5, 2015 at 1:08 pm
Rebecca G. Aguilar
Thank you for the wonderfully articulated advice, Heidi! Picture books are the greatest medium ever! Taking this to heart: ‘And, in the simplest of terms, and no less important, you are delighting a child.’
December 5, 2015 at 1:08 pm
kdveiten
“Music is the space between the notes. ” Love this. Then perhaps, “story is the space between the words.” Just a thought.
December 5, 2015 at 1:12 pm
tanyakonerman
Really like the idea of my voice as “special sauce,” since mine is (hopefully) different than that of others. Thanks for a great post.
December 5, 2015 at 1:13 pm
Li'vee Rehfield
Thank you Heidi… A wonderful thought to breathe on…the text left out to think about…a cherished voice I’d heard before…:)”You’ve got mail”…have a wonderful Christmas…
December 5, 2015 at 1:20 pm
Carleen Shreeve
Thanks Heidi, Great post. I especially liked the quote. Inspiring!
December 5, 2015 at 1:25 pm
Ana
Good read
December 5, 2015 at 1:26 pm
theresenagi
Thanks for giving us great tips!
December 5, 2015 at 1:26 pm
Dow Phumiruk
Thank you for your thoughts, Heidi, and hooray for Little Red Gliding Hood!
December 5, 2015 at 1:27 pm
tpierce
Heidi! After reading your post I’m even more excited to start working with you :).
December 5, 2015 at 1:28 pm
Jill Richards Proctor
Short, sweet, special and inspiring! Thank you, Heidi. Every drop of encouragement puts gas in my tank.
December 5, 2015 at 1:30 pm
Beth Blee
Heidi, thanks for your insightful post! Always enjoy hearing from an editor’s perspective.
December 5, 2015 at 1:30 pm
mbeaversillustration
Great reminders and excellent advice, thank you!
December 5, 2015 at 1:32 pm
mermaidrain
Lol! I like the special sauce analogy. 🙂
December 5, 2015 at 1:32 pm
ingridboydston
I often purchase collections of random or thematic picture books for my K students. I confess to occasionally groaning inwardly as I preview some of them, only to be surprised and delighted by my students’ enthusiastic reactions to a story I thought was, well let’s just say, sub par. Happy as I am for their ability to find joy in everything,like you, it does make me want to aim high! Thanks for the role you play in bringing theses treasures to our little ones and for encouraging the rest of us!
December 5, 2015 at 1:41 pm
Elena
What wonderful advice. Thank you, Heidi.
December 5, 2015 at 1:45 pm
melissamiles1
The “Having fun” part is one thing I never have trouble with. I love writing books, and kids are the best audiences. 😉
December 5, 2015 at 1:47 pm
Jim Chaize
Very helpful advice. Writing picture books seems so simple at times, but those 500 words require some serious talent and personal character. Thanks Heidi.
December 5, 2015 at 1:49 pm
Kathy Grupe
I love the part about leaving some things out. I think that’s a huge problem sometimes–just too many ideas and wanting to fit them all in one story. Thanks for the great advice.
December 5, 2015 at 1:50 pm
Teresa Klepinger
I’m interested in finding out how Little Red Gliding Hood is original!
December 5, 2015 at 1:54 pm
Maria J Cuesta
Very inspiring. Getting the best over the good is not easy sometimes. Thank you!
December 5, 2015 at 1:54 pm
JEN Garrett
Be original… I like that.
December 5, 2015 at 1:56 pm
Charlotte Dixon
Thank you, Heidi, for the inspiration. I will aim to fill that space between book and reader so that my reader will want to pick up my story time after time. Great advice!
December 5, 2015 at 1:58 pm
Audrey Hackett
Excellent advice! Throw in a twist or two to surprise the reader. I also like thinking about my voice as “special sauce”. Thank you
December 5, 2015 at 2:01 pm
katmaz2012
Love these ideas, special sauce, leaving things out. Thanks!
December 5, 2015 at 2:03 pm
Dayne Sislen, Children's Book Illustrator
Thank you for your post. I’ll have to give some not so serious thought to “music is the space between the notes.”
December 5, 2015 at 2:04 pm
Mark A. Bentz
Thank you Heidi for posting. Great advice from a professional.
December 5, 2015 at 2:13 pm
Elizabeth Metz
Ha! It does feel a little scandalous to write that down, doesn’t it? “Sometimes children have terrible taste.” If we put “books kids like” and “stories told well” into a Venn diagram, I imagine we’re all aiming for that overlapping middle area.
December 5, 2015 at 2:15 pm
Carrie Moore Chan
Thank you. I like the idea that I have a “special sauce”.
December 5, 2015 at 2:25 pm
rosiepova
Finally, someone speaks up the ugly truth: How did THAT get published? “Bad writing, rotten plot, poor rhyme and meter, hideous illustrations.…” I’ve seen quite a few of those. Thank you, Heidi, for your honesty!
Rosie Pova
December 5, 2015 at 2:26 pm
viviankirkfield
Getting an inside peek at what editors are looking for is something every writer hopes for…thank you, Ms. Kilgras. Originality, stellar writing, leaving room for the illustrator…these are crucial, of course. But I’m glad you included having fun…because without that…the writer might as well be doing something else. 🙂 PiBoIdMo has sparked lots of ideas…now it’s time to let the magic begin!
December 5, 2015 at 2:27 pm
mollywog2015
Thank you for the great advice!
December 5, 2015 at 2:30 pm
Deb Lund
Always love hearing about the “space between the notes” when it comes to picture books, and it came at a good time for me. Thanks for your post!
December 5, 2015 at 2:34 pm
Dana Arnim
Good thoughts!
December 5, 2015 at 2:36 pm
gretchengeser
I love the title of your post and that it has been attributed to two great, and very different, musicians. I also love your “Both text and art need breathing room.” Yes! That’s a difficult goal to reach but good to know about and worth striving for. Thanks!
December 5, 2015 at 2:36 pm
Kate Harold
What a great post – love the whole first paragraph! Great job with LITTLE RED – a winner with my kids!!
December 5, 2015 at 2:38 pm
Carol Jones
“Don’t forget to leave some stuff out,” is great advice for PB writers, when you think about it. In the recent “Picture Book Summit,” Mac Barnett talked about the page turn as an important feature, especially when something happens between one page and the next, and it’s not spelled out, but you can easily imagine what happened.
December 5, 2015 at 2:47 pm
Dana Atnip
I love the “Secret Sauce” concept! I will now write using my Secret Sauce! Thank you, Heidi!
December 5, 2015 at 2:51 pm
Wendy Greenley
Thank you for the words of encouragement, Heidi, and for bringing Tara’s book to life!
December 5, 2015 at 2:52 pm
Chris Regier (@cmregier)
Love the quote about the space between making the music. Thank you.
December 5, 2015 at 2:54 pm
Heidi Yates
Thank you for the great advice Heidi! I love the idea that “voice” is the special sauce. 🙂
December 5, 2015 at 2:55 pm
anniebailey7
Thank you for this post! Especially for the reminder to have fun! Sometimes I think we forget that important part.
December 5, 2015 at 2:56 pm
Tara O'Dowd
Loved this post! Made me think of the one book my son loved which my husband and I hated… And the debates we had over sending it to the thrift store, until finally we did.
December 5, 2015 at 2:58 pm
nicolepopel
Be original. I like that.
December 5, 2015 at 2:59 pm
Marty McCormick
Thanks you for the tips from the editor’s POV, Heidi. All duly noted 🙂
December 5, 2015 at 2:59 pm
Emily Wayne (@emilywayneart)
Wonderful post Heidi!
December 5, 2015 at 3:24 pm
Pamela G. Jones
Breathing room! Thank you for that reminder 🙂
December 5, 2015 at 3:27 pm
Gretchen Brandenburg McLellan
Here’s to the greatest medium ever! As a writer of picture books, your word privilege really resonated with me. The overwhelming experience of an artist somewhere else on the planet loving my story enough to paint it into life is a truly a humbling and moving privilege for which I am truly grateful.
December 5, 2015 at 3:28 pm
jdewdropsofink
Thank you. Fabulous advice. Now back to work. 🙂
December 5, 2015 at 3:29 pm
Elaine Le Sueur
Wise advice. Thanks, Heidi
December 5, 2015 at 3:31 pm
amomnextdoor
I love the suggestion to consider the adult readers of the picture book. Remembering that I am putting words into their mouths, I’ll work harder to make sure those words are fluid, melodic, rhythmic, funny and meaningful!
December 5, 2015 at 3:33 pm
Kathleen Wilcox
Thank, Heidi, for the great guidelines. So much to keep in mind, we need these helpful reminders and encouragement.
December 5, 2015 at 3:38 pm
Val McCammon
Excellent points about the space we leave for discovery. Thanks, Heidi.
December 5, 2015 at 3:40 pm
Gabi Snyder
Thanks for the insightful advice, Heidi! I especially like thinking about my “voice” as my “special sauce.”
December 5, 2015 at 3:53 pm
Carole Calladine
Thanks for the terrific post, Heidi! Special sauce. Incredible voice. Good bones. And leave space between the lines.
December 5, 2015 at 3:53 pm
Joanne Sher
FABULOUS post, Heidi! Love your reminder about our job to make the reader sound like a fabulous storyteller. Really hit me. Thanks!
December 5, 2015 at 3:57 pm
kirsticall
What a wonderful post. I especially like reading about the pauses between the notes. It’s a great reminder.
December 5, 2015 at 4:02 pm
tinawissner
The most motivating post –ever!
December 5, 2015 at 4:08 pm
ELJohnsen
Reblogged this on E.L. Johnsen.
December 5, 2015 at 4:24 pm
aliciaminor
It was great when you pause to post because you just added more helpful tips for us. Thanks for sharing.
December 5, 2015 at 4:39 pm
Naana Kyereboah
Thank you Heidi, for the great advice. Reminding the author to have fun is an awesome idea.
December 5, 2015 at 4:39 pm
Laura Purdie Salas
Love the “let’s aim high.” Yes! Thanks!
December 5, 2015 at 4:43 pm
lindamartinandersen
Great tips about leaving breathing space and creating your own sauce. I’m trying to create a jar label in my mind. Maybe A+ Sauce–I’m A Positive blood type and an Andersen. Fun to think about.
December 5, 2015 at 4:43 pm
8catpaws
Snip, snip, snip. Cut out the parts that don’t need to be there and let the imagination step over the cracks…
December 5, 2015 at 4:58 pm
mariagianferrari
I so agree, Heidi! I feel highly privileged to be writing for kids, and to be a part of the generous kid-lit and Tara’s PiBoIdMo community! Thanks!
December 5, 2015 at 5:05 pm
thduggie
Thanks for the tips – I will keep in mind that I’m essentially writing for oral recitation and revise my stories with that in mind.
December 5, 2015 at 5:06 pm
Lynette Oxley
Thanks for your advice on unique voice, Heidi.
December 5, 2015 at 5:08 pm
Kim Piddington
Lovely advice.
December 5, 2015 at 5:28 pm
Buffy Silverman
“Give the reader moments of discovery, moments of participation.”–I love that! Thanks for the great post.
December 5, 2015 at 5:46 pm
Sue Morris @ KidLitReviews
Great ideas. Tara’s Little Red is amazing! What was it, 17 nursery rhymes/fairy tales mentioned. Top that! Brilliant.
December 5, 2015 at 6:10 pm
Thornton Blease
I love, “music is the space between the notes.”
December 5, 2015 at 6:18 pm
angela cullen
Great advice. ..thanks for sharing from an editor’s perspective.
December 5, 2015 at 6:18 pm
Nancy Colle
Never thought of voice as “special sauce”. Thought-provoking,thank you.
December 5, 2015 at 6:18 pm
Widjati Hartiningtyas
Less is more. Well said, Heidi!
December 5, 2015 at 6:26 pm
Susan Nicholas
I love the idea of leaving little moments…spaces…for the reader/listener to make their own discoveries.
December 5, 2015 at 6:38 pm
Fran Price
Thanks and good luck with your own picture books too.
December 5, 2015 at 6:49 pm
Janet Halfmann
I love the thought of “the music between the notes.” I’ll be thinking about that as I write.
December 5, 2015 at 7:02 pm
Annie Cronin Romano
Great post! Thank you!!
December 5, 2015 at 7:15 pm
Pat Miller
Thanks, Heidi. I’m going to give your approach a try.
December 5, 2015 at 7:32 pm
Amy Houts
Thanks for sharing your thoughts. It’s important to hear an editor’s point of view who is also a picture book writer. Your enthusiasm for books and good writing shows!
December 5, 2015 at 7:43 pm
Christine Connolly
Such poignant advice! Thank you.
December 5, 2015 at 7:59 pm
gweddle
Great advice! Thank you!
December 5, 2015 at 8:04 pm
Brook Gideon (@brookgideon)
All very excellent points, thank you for sharing their importance!
December 5, 2015 at 8:09 pm
Angela Turner
Loved reading this post and thank you a chance to read Tara’s new book.
December 5, 2015 at 8:28 pm
julie rowan zoch
Awesomesauce! Thanks!
December 5, 2015 at 8:30 pm
Hélène Sabourin
I couldn’t agree more. Some of my favorite picture books are simple ideas, really. What makes them so special is the original voice.
December 5, 2015 at 9:13 pm
Karen Brueggeman
Great stuff and very inspiring. Thanks.
December 5, 2015 at 9:17 pm
Sharon Giltrow
Thanks Heidi for giving us an editors perspective for a great PB
December 5, 2015 at 9:19 pm
LJ Laniewski
Excellent post! Thank you for the inspiration. 🙂
December 5, 2015 at 9:23 pm
authordeb
Thanks for the pep talk and the advice!
December 5, 2015 at 9:27 pm
Debbie Austin
Thank you, Heidi. “Music is the space between the notes.” Love this as it applies to the “white space” in a picture book.
December 5, 2015 at 9:32 pm
lepley
Thanks for giving me a lot to think about!
December 5, 2015 at 9:35 pm
Deborah Allmand
Loved your wise words about the special sauce. Also really like moments of participation and discovery. Thanks for the post!
December 5, 2015 at 9:48 pm
Brenda Huante
Great ideas and quite a challenge. Thank you!
December 5, 2015 at 9:52 pm
Laurie L Young
Talk about expert advice! Thank you for reminding me that it takes more than just a good idea, (as I scroll my months worth of ideas to see which ones will fly!)
December 5, 2015 at 9:58 pm
Suzanne Poulter Harris
You’re one of the few true experts on picture books – you read them both at work and with your son, you write them, you publish them and in the past, you even sold them. Thank you for sharing your passion for these little gems.
December 5, 2015 at 10:02 pm
Kristen Browning
Yes, those My Little Pony books are mind-numbing! But my 4 year old loves, loves, loves books, so I can’t complain! Thanks for the funny and helpful post. I’m working on my “special sauce!”
December 5, 2015 at 10:10 pm
Viva Tomlin
I am used to thinking about subtext for movies but hadn’t thought of the unsaid as subtext in picture books. Thank you! Somehow the way you put it has opened a door.
December 5, 2015 at 10:18 pm
Jamie LB Deenihan
Heidi, thank you for the great post. It was inspirational and filled with information to refer back to when working on PiBoIdMo ideas. I agree that it’s an incredible priveledge to write for children. Thanks for your expertise!
December 5, 2015 at 10:46 pm
Alexia Andoni
Great advice! I couldn’t agree with this more: “Sometimes my favorite part of a picture book is the text that isn’t there.” Thank you!
December 5, 2015 at 10:48 pm
laura516
Thanks for reminding me that “voice” is part of the originality clause.
December 5, 2015 at 10:51 pm
Wendy Hinote Lanier
Be original. Turn that good idea into a great story. Leave some stuff out. Got it. Thanks!
December 5, 2015 at 11:11 pm
Artelle Lenthall
Picture Books need pictures! Of course room needs to be left for the illustrator. I totally agree. Thanks Heidi
December 5, 2015 at 11:12 pm
Pamela Haskin
What a great post! I I’ve that you see the magic in what we all create together. Makes me proud to be a writer and illustrator.
December 5, 2015 at 11:15 pm
Rachel Smoka-Richardson
Thank you for your excellent and useful advice!
December 5, 2015 at 11:15 pm
Nancy Kotkin
You’re right! The left-out words often are my favorite parts of a picture book. Thanks for pointing that out!
December 5, 2015 at 11:35 pm
angiecal76
Still trying to spice up my special “sauce,” Heidi. Thank you for a great post.
December 5, 2015 at 11:36 pm
Heather Pierce Stigall
Thank you so much for the advice!
December 5, 2015 at 11:43 pm
Shirley Fadden
To do list. Make a recipe for my secret sauce. Thank you!
December 6, 2015 at 12:07 am
writeknit
Thank you for a look at the “other side” of writing, reminding us to listen to the music between the notes to create the best picture book we can.
December 6, 2015 at 12:23 am
writeremmcbride
Elizabeth McBride – Thank you for the encouraging and informative post, Heidi! I liked the musical reference. It made me think of the powerful silences in Mo Willems’ “City Dog, Country Frog.”
Sent from my iPhone
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December 6, 2015 at 12:41 am
Patricia Corcoran
I like the notion of thinking of your voice as your
“special sauce.” And the visual is fun, too.
December 6, 2015 at 12:47 am
Donna L Martin
Oh, how I try to be original in everything I write so it’s nice to hear other people in the industry still want to read original…;~)
Great post!
December 6, 2015 at 1:04 am
Sallye
great post!
December 6, 2015 at 1:12 am
martylgraham
Thanks for the inspiration Heidi! It is always nice to hear such positive energy, especially coming from the publishing house!
December 6, 2015 at 1:12 am
Lyn Miller-Lachmann
Thank you for the advice and inspiration, Heidi!
December 6, 2015 at 1:20 am
Christine M. Irvin
Great advice, thanks!
December 6, 2015 at 1:23 am
sschwartz28
Thanks for the helpful post!
December 6, 2015 at 1:42 am
Juliana Lee
All important points, Heidi! Thanks for sharing with us today! 🙂
December 6, 2015 at 2:02 am
LeeAnn Rizzuti
Voice, language, space, and fun. You said it, Heidi.
December 6, 2015 at 2:06 am
Kari Benjamin
I so agree about the “terrible” picture books that show up at my house. (Dora anyone?)
December 6, 2015 at 2:12 am
Ashley Bankhead
I absolutely loved this post! I, too, feel like it is such a privilege to write picture books. I absolutely love it. Thank you for reminding us to be original and make our words sing.
December 6, 2015 at 2:18 am
Kaye Baillie
I’m always trying to improve. There is so much to each book. Thanks, Heidi.
December 6, 2015 at 2:43 am
Michelle Kogan Illustration, Painting & Writing
Thanks Heidi, loved the analogy about “music is the space between the notes. I’s not the notes you play. And your mention of needed space in the text and pictures.
December 6, 2015 at 3:05 am
Kathy Doherty
Lots of wonderful reminders here. Great stories sell . . . be original . . . voice matters . . . Thanks!
December 6, 2015 at 4:03 am
rythmicrhyme
Thanks Heidi for sharing your editorial perspective. Be inspired. Find joy in the writing process. Delight a child. Create an original voice and a great story. Be fascinated with language. Let the words sing and the story breathe. Be aware of and make room for the collaborators; editor, illustrator and the mind of the reader. Invest heart in the subtext that flows beneath the words. And give the reader moments of discovery and participation.
December 6, 2015 at 4:03 am
Jill Giesbrecht
Your advice is the bacon in my caramel brownies. 😉 Thanks.
December 6, 2015 at 4:17 am
Caroline Lee Webster (@uncoverthepearl)
Thank you for this post–I think of “voice” so much in the context of other forms of writing; I don’t think I’d realized how essential it is in picture books, too. And, what a great giveaway :-).
December 6, 2015 at 4:19 am
June Smalls
Got it. Add special sauce but not so much that it smothers the dish. 🙂
December 6, 2015 at 4:53 am
Keila Dawson
Good advice about voice, that is what makes each and every one of us unique and original. 🙂
December 6, 2015 at 5:23 am
KV
Thank you for this great editorial insight!
December 6, 2015 at 6:43 am
mona861
Thanks for your advice. We’ve come up with great story ideas all month, now it’s time to make the music!
December 6, 2015 at 6:54 am
lanearnold
“Sometimes my favorite part of a picture book is the text that isn’t there, but there is a suggestion of what could be there that the reader’s mind fills in. Here is an apt quote (attributed to both Claude Debussy and Miles Davis): “Music is the space between the notes. It’s not the notes you play; it’s the notes you don’t play.”” Such a good thing to remember!
December 6, 2015 at 7:51 am
Janet Smart
Enjoyed this post. I am still striving to find that ‘something special’ that will make a publisher love my manuscripts and pick them to be published. I also see books on the shelf and wonder ‘how’ they got published. I love writing for children, though, and someday will write that ‘something special.’
December 6, 2015 at 8:04 am
andreesantini
I love this post, especially the “Have fun” reminder. Whether published yet or to be, we can refine our voice and craft to entertain children and their caregivers. I agree, what greater privilege?
December 6, 2015 at 8:49 am
lindaschueler
Thanks for the tips.
December 6, 2015 at 9:08 am
avivawerner
Thank you for the post.
December 6, 2015 at 9:59 am
Heather Greene
This post is one of the best. Thank you!
December 6, 2015 at 10:12 am
Peter Dargatz
Thanks for the advice!
December 6, 2015 at 10:33 am
Ann Kelley
Thank you for all the wonderful tips!
December 6, 2015 at 10:35 am
angeladegroot8
Have fun. Or there’s no point in doing it.
December 6, 2015 at 10:45 am
pepb16416
thank you. I can’t believe there are so many ways to propagate ideas!! Patty Bennett
December 6, 2015 at 10:50 am
Sheri Rad
Thank you for sage words from a real editor. What could be more helpful.
December 6, 2015 at 10:56 am
kmshelley
Thanks for the great advice!
December 6, 2015 at 11:09 am
Barbara Carney
“Give the reader moments of discovery, moments of participation.” Such a great way to think of what’s essential in a book! Thank you!
December 6, 2015 at 11:15 am
Kerrie
So true. There are some books my son loves that I just don’t get. I find myself wanting to rewrite them. LOL. Thank you for the encouragement and advice.
December 6, 2015 at 11:41 am
DaNeil Olson
As a school librarian, I know exactly what you mean about books kids love but adults don’t. I have purchased many of these books because my students love them.
December 6, 2015 at 12:12 pm
Shannon Bartoshewski
Advice I will refer back to often – thanks very much for your post!
December 6, 2015 at 12:34 pm
Erin O'Brien
Wonderful advice! Thank you!
December 6, 2015 at 12:40 pm
Natalie Rompella
I am talking at a career fair in January, and this was good food for thought. Thanks!
December 6, 2015 at 12:47 pm
Lori Dubbin
I intend to have fun from now on spicing up my special sauce, making my stories sing, and leaving space between the words. It’s hard, sweaty work to accomplish, but I thank you for the truth between your words.
December 6, 2015 at 1:51 pm
Ashley Pierson
Thank you Heidi! I’ll definitely be working to hone my own ‘original’ voice!
December 6, 2015 at 2:47 pm
amievc
Thanks for your insightful post! We are fortunate to have chosen this work!
December 6, 2015 at 3:56 pm
Cathy Stefanec Ogren
Thanks for the great tips, Heidi!
December 6, 2015 at 4:09 pm
Tracey M. Cox
Great post. Thanks!
December 6, 2015 at 4:11 pm
Anna Smith
Thank you for the inspiration. i love the special sauce.
December 6, 2015 at 5:05 pm
Joannie Duris
Heidi, thanks for sharing your passion for picture books, and what makes them sing. You’ve managed to include an entire workshop on the craft in one brief post. As for original…a big thank you to Sophie for her original portrait of you. What fun!
December 6, 2015 at 5:13 pm
Barbara Cairns
Thank you, Heidi for your inspiring post. It’s so important for us to hear words of wisdom from a children’s book editor.
December 6, 2015 at 6:26 pm
erikammon
Be original, with a twist or three 🙂 Words to remember! Thanks for posting for us, Heidi!
December 6, 2015 at 6:39 pm
Jacqueline Adams
I like the idea of thinking of your voice as your special sauce. That’s the best definition I’ve seen!
December 6, 2015 at 7:10 pm
Midge Smith
Thank you!
December 6, 2015 at 7:23 pm
mrsbulls2ndgrade
I consider myself an advocate for the future of reason whether I’m ever published or not 😉
December 6, 2015 at 8:37 pm
Shirley Menendez
Thanks for the wise advice.
December 6, 2015 at 9:20 pm
Nadine Gamble
Great advice for all aspiring PB authors…thanks!
December 6, 2015 at 9:54 pm
Susan L. Roberts
Thank you for the insights….and reminder.
December 6, 2015 at 10:03 pm
Natasha Wing
Leaving out is just as important as leaving in. Great reminder.
December 6, 2015 at 10:05 pm
Rona Shirdan
I liked the Miles Davis quote. Thanks for the advice!
December 6, 2015 at 10:38 pm
brandimpayne
Thank you so much!
December 6, 2015 at 10:48 pm
jennfowler
Thank you for your words of wisdom.
December 6, 2015 at 10:57 pm
Cinzia
Nice advice – thanks!
December 6, 2015 at 11:07 pm
artsyandi
I always find it interesting to see what books my son will choose at his school library. Thanks for your insight.
December 6, 2015 at 11:07 pm
kayt663
As a former preschool teacher, I’ve read my share of not so wonderful books. I’m truly hoping to aim high. Thanks for sharing tips that will help me do that!
December 6, 2015 at 11:22 pm
Meghan Daniels
Special sauce yes!
December 6, 2015 at 11:42 pm
Ali Earle Pichardo
Thanks Heidi, I love getting advice from an editor.
December 6, 2015 at 11:44 pm
Micki Ginsberg
Thank you, Heidi, for those gems. I printed out your post. It’s one I’ll want to reread.
December 6, 2015 at 11:45 pm
Susanne Whitehouse
“If you aren’t having fun, what’s the point?” Awesome quote and so true!
December 7, 2015 at 12:17 am
Pam Miller
An essential note, Heidi. Must have been heard by Frank Sinatra as he sang “. . .you will be my music. . .”. Thank you.
December 7, 2015 at 12:24 am
katiemillsgiorgio
Great post! Thanks for sharing!
December 7, 2015 at 12:45 am
Zoraida Rivera Morales
Voice, so mysterious. Thanks for the insight.
December 7, 2015 at 1:06 am
kimlynnp
Thank you Heidi. What a way to sum up PiBoIdMo! “Be original” is key for us writers! I love how you are encouraging us to “make the words sing” and to leave space for illustration. Lovely post! 🙂
December 7, 2015 at 1:31 am
LaurenKerstein
Thank you for the important reminder that an excellent idea is only the beginning of the journey toward a beautiful, evocative story.
December 7, 2015 at 1:51 am
Sandy Powell
I always appreciate when an editor takes time to give us their thoughts and advice. Thank you!
December 7, 2015 at 8:35 am
Lauri Meyers
“Sometimes children have bad taste.” It’s so true! And often contagious, because once they start giggling at something stupid, I end up giggling, too.
December 7, 2015 at 10:13 am
eliseparsley
I’m working on leaving some things out so the reader can fill them in today. Thanks for the pep talk, Heidi!
December 7, 2015 at 11:06 am
ilovebeansandbooks
Thank you! I’ve felt the same way with some books – how did *this* one make it?! Only to have my daughter request it time and time again!!
December 7, 2015 at 11:20 am
Mary Worley
It’s so hard to know when you have left the right amount of space for the reader. Thank you for the encouraging words!
December 7, 2015 at 3:57 pm
Bethany Mandich
My voice is my special sauce! Thanks for your encouragement, Heidi!
December 7, 2015 at 4:49 pm
Dee Engle
Thank you for reminding us to respect the craft!! And thank you for being part of our process of writing!!
December 7, 2015 at 4:55 pm
Monica Stoltzfus
Heidi,
Thank you so much for this incredibly valuable advice from the mind of an editor! Wow, I’ve longed to get into the head of such for a long time!
Off to brush off some ideas now….
December 7, 2015 at 5:05 pm
Ann kronwald
Thanks Heidi. I like being told to have fun.
December 7, 2015 at 5:09 pm
AlenaT
Thanks for the great ideas!
December 7, 2015 at 5:18 pm
Sandy Perlic
Wonderful post! Thanks for the reminder that our readers are our collaborators in a great story.
December 7, 2015 at 6:16 pm
lgalaske
Thanks for the encouragement and practical advice. Very helpful!
December 7, 2015 at 6:54 pm
shirley johnson
Very nice post! Thanks so much for sharing.
December 7, 2015 at 8:34 pm
Jennifer Phillips
I still remember one of the books my first daughter loved when she was young that we couldn’t understand why. But read it over and over and over and over we did. She was the customer. Great advice on how to tackle an idea. Thanks!
December 7, 2015 at 8:41 pm
ammwrite3
Thanks, Heidi.”Give readers moments of discovery.” Yes, that’s it! 🙂
December 7, 2015 at 8:57 pm
Doris Stone
Heidi, your common sense advice and gentle reminders really resonated with me. Thank you!
December 7, 2015 at 10:55 pm
Lucky Jo Boscarino
This could be apocryphal, but late in life Miles Davis wrote songs on a piano that was missing some keys. Could he hear the missing notes, or was he listening between them, finding innovation in absence? (Where can I get one of them giant jars of ugly-colored special sauce?)
December 7, 2015 at 11:17 pm
Julie Murphy
Great post. Thanks.
December 7, 2015 at 11:26 pm
Kara
Make the words sing and have fun. Great advice!
December 8, 2015 at 12:05 am
Steph Beth Nickel's Blog
Thanks so much for participating in post-PiBo 2015 and for sharing these tips with us.
December 8, 2015 at 12:09 am
Melanie Ellsworth
I think I’ll put, “Give the reader moments of discovery and participation” up on my office wall! I love the way Sangmi Ko left things out of the text in her PB, A Dog Wearing Shoes.
December 8, 2015 at 2:01 am
Carrie Charley Brown
Thanks for the inspiration, Heidi! As a writer it is frustrating to see those books that make you think, “How did this get published?” But, that’s the mark of this subjective industry and it runs with children, as well. I love this quote: “To the world you may be one person, but to one person you may be the world.”
December 8, 2015 at 2:06 am
Sharon Langley
I think certain books, too, can have the “it factor.” They defy explanation.and formula but kids love them. So here’s to originality!
Sharon Langley
December 8, 2015 at 5:45 am
StephMWard
Such an interesting way to think about writing picture books — between the notes, or words. Thanks for bringing this new idea to PiBoIdMo!
December 8, 2015 at 9:31 am
Daryl Gottier
Thanks for the inspiration!
December 8, 2015 at 10:17 am
Kelly Parker
No matter the result, I always have fun! Thank you so much for sharing!
December 8, 2015 at 10:21 am
Sandi Lawson
It is fun to write and dream of having the most magical story ever!
December 8, 2015 at 11:06 am
Hmmmmm
A well-timed reminder: leave space/gaps/openings/BREATHING ROOM. Thanks Heidi.
December 8, 2015 at 11:10 am
Stephen S. Martin
Fun Fun Fun Fun!
December 8, 2015 at 11:22 am
City Sights for Kids
Lots of great nuggets! –Amanda Sincavage
December 8, 2015 at 12:13 pm
renajtraxel
So love “Think of your “voice” as your “special sauce.”
December 8, 2015 at 12:38 pm
Anna L. Russell
I am still filled with “fear.”
December 8, 2015 at 12:57 pm
Christie Allred
Thank you for the chance to win Tara’s book 🙂
December 8, 2015 at 2:05 pm
LovableLobo
We agree that PBs are the greatest medium EVER! Thanks for sharing your voice and recipe for success, Heidi.
December 8, 2015 at 3:12 pm
Alison Goldberg
Thanks for this helpful post!
December 8, 2015 at 5:18 pm
Linda Carpenter
Many thanks for the great post! Feeling very blessed to have all this wonderful input pouring in!
December 9, 2015 at 1:36 am
WalkingStick
Enjoyed hearing your perspective on the art of writing a good pb.
December 9, 2015 at 12:14 pm
Holly Ruppel
Heidi, thank you so much! There are so many profound thoughts packed into this post! So inspiring!
December 9, 2015 at 12:34 pm
Prairie Garden Girl
So many good thoughts. I especially like the idea of the PB collaborators: editor, illustrator, and the eyes and mind of the reader. Thank you, Heidi. ~Suzy Leopold
December 10, 2015 at 9:20 pm
Penny Parker Klostermann
Thanks for sharing this quote! “Music is the space between the notes. It’s not the notes you play; it’s the notes you don’t play.” It’s such a balance. I appreciate the tips!
December 12, 2015 at 11:25 pm
goodfish78
Amazing reminders. Thank you!
December 13, 2015 at 12:09 pm
Darshana
Thanks for the post!
December 15, 2015 at 10:55 pm
Jabeen Chawdhry
Your words have motivated me to get back to work! Thanks!
December 27, 2015 at 8:49 pm
Karen Lawler
I have been out of the country and in areas that don’t have computer access.
I hope I am not to late to comment. Thanks for the encouraging words. Now that I am back in the USA I can WRITE WRITE WRITE !!! 🙂