August 16, 2016 2:16 pm
Maria Ashworth is a dedicated children’s book writer who has just released a big new venture, a picture book entitled MY BIG TREE, illustrated by Bailey Beougher. What makes this book different than the ones I typically feature? It is with a smaller, independent publisher…but it has led to big things for Maria’s career. (You note the theme is BIG here, right?)
MY BIG TREE features a sweet little blue bird who has found a favorite place to nest in a big, swirling tree. Soon other animals think it’s the ideal place to be, too. The little blue bird isn’t ready to share her space and decides it’s no longer the “best tree to nest in.” She finds a new tree, but something is missing. In the end, the little bluebird realizes there is one thing more valuable than nesting in her favorite tree…
Maria, what inspired you to write this book?
I wanted to challenge myself to write a concept book with a message. An idea came along where what if there was a bird who had something she loved, a big tree. And then what if everyone thought it was their favorite tree too. Would bird be happy sharing…???
The dog in the story doesn’t have a speaking role in this production, so how did he come to be?
At first I had the animals in the tree and was satisfied. The illustrator perfected a dog in her portfolio so I thought, huh, wouldn’t it be neat to add a dog in each page doing his own thing? It would get the reader curious, maybe even make them suspect the dog was up to no good, especially near a big tree. But he is just a dog doing his thing on every page with no real purpose other than to create more curiosity surrounding the big tree.
What do you want kids to take away after reading MY BIG TREE?
The message is about friendship but also that materialistic things are not what is important in life. Building relationships with others, having friends is what matters. Toys and things are just stuff. They are a temporary happy. Relationships are forever and can last a lifetime.
Your book has a classic feel. It’s a friendship book, a counting book and a search-and-find book. How would you describe it?
It has a BROWN BEAR, BROWN BEAR feel with a hint of Handford’s WHERE’S WALDO? books, but aimed at the younger set. I wanted the animals to be placed randomly throughout the book so kids would have fun finding the animals in the tree. Then at the end, the animals join together in their grouping so children can make sure all the animals are accounted for. And I snuck in some chicks so they’d better not miss those!
This book is with the Spork imprint of Clear Fork Publishing in your home state of Texas. Can you tell us how you decided to self-publish at first and then sign with them?
My critique group enticed me into self-publishing. I have a couple of gals who are gurus in the self-publishing market. One of them is Indie and boasted how being an independent author reaps more benefits. I felt I had put in my time into the writing world and was salivating to get myself out there. To date, I’ve accumulated a hundred and seventy-five rejections from my submitted work. I’m a salesperson by nature and knew I could do it myself instead of waiting on rejections.
So I was all ready to self-publish MY BIG TREE–I found the perfect illustrator and had my finger on the “send” button to the printer…but then I went to my first Texas Library Association conference. I met an editor from Clear Fork and we grabbed coffee together. I told the editor about MY BIG TREE, which she loved, and offered to be my publisher. She also asked what else I had stirring in the pot! It’s all a fairy-tale ending after that, with a multi-book deal. IGGY LOO is coming out this winter, with TOMMY JAMES, THE LITTLEST COWBOY IN RECKON’ series following next year. I am blessed.
What are the advantages to working with a small publisher in your own backyard?
I see for ME a BIG advantage and that is I am asked my opinion on everything. Right down to who I see as an illustrator for the book to the vision and look of my characters. I’m not sure it’s this way with all small press editors. Matter of fact I know it’s not, because a writer friend is with a small press and doesn’t have the same relationship I do. I think after seeing the work I put into MY BIG TREE she saw my vision as a writer. The editor and I hit it off like sisters. Joining forces with her felt right. The publisher is only three years old. I want to make them just as much as a success as I hope to be for them.
Congratulations, Maria. Your experience just proves that it pays to keep writing…and always have more than one story ready to go. You never know when someone will ask for MORE! Best wishes with THE BIG TREE and your upcoming titles.
Hey, BIG NEWS! You can win a copy of MY BIG TREE, just leave a comment below. What BIG things are you planning for your writing career? One comment per person. US addresses only, please. A winner will be randomly chosen in early September.
Maria Ashworth volunteers her time when she’s not writing for the Maud Marks Library Friends Board in Katy, Texas where she serves as President, as well as a Member-At-Large for the Friends of the Harris County Library. She’s a member of the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators. Some of Ms. Ashworth’s picture books and middle grade novel manuscripts have been nominated as finalists in several contests. She’s published a handful of short stories through contests and a women’s anthology. Visit her at MariaAshworth.com.
Posted by Tara Lazar
Categories: Picture Books
Tags: book giveaway, Giveaway, independent publishing, Indie author, Maria Ashworth, MY BIG TREE
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Congratulations. What a lovely story.
By Anita Banks on August 16, 2016 at 2:39 pm
Wow, what a great story about your story! Way to go for sticking it out through so many rejections, that must have been very hard. Looking forward to reading My Big Tree!
By kariail2013 on August 16, 2016 at 2:44 pm
Thank You for sharing your personal journey, Maria! And congrats on your multiple book deal with “your sister”…cannot wait to read all your books!
By polly renner on August 16, 2016 at 2:45 pm
My New Years’ resolution. Was to get an agent in 2016, still plugging away!
By megcason1 on August 16, 2016 at 2:45 pm
It’s exciting to hear about other options that are working for people.
By David McMullin on August 16, 2016 at 2:53 pm
I love seeing success stories like this. It just shows that there are multiple ways to succeed in this industry. The book looks adorable too.
By Johnell DeWitt on August 16, 2016 at 2:55 pm
Congratulations Maria! What an inspiring story. Thanks for sharing it, Tara! Big things? This year I plan to sign with an agent and sign a contract for my second book…I know it’s coming, I can just feel it;). But I’ll keep on trying even if my BIG plans take more time!
By Patti Richards on August 16, 2016 at 3:02 pm
Maria, I love you asked yourself the “what if” questions to produce the plot to this story and the dog element is fun, too. Also, you gave yourself an internal deadline w/ writing and you knew it was time to get yourself out there. Bazinga, TLA and hard work intervened, plus a bit of fate. Congrats, lady! Big congrats on My Big Tree! I want it, and it does sound like a classic.
By kathalsey on August 16, 2016 at 3:11 pm
Congratulations, Maria! And thank you for sharing her story, Tara! Those rejections can be discouraging, but I love how perseverance paid off in a BIG way! Just added My Big Tree to my BIG Amazon list! 🙂
By creationsbymit on August 16, 2016 at 3:14 pm
What a journey! Thank you, Maria, for the inspiration to keep going. Loved reading your background and I look forward to reading your books. Congratulations!
By Charlotte Dixon on August 16, 2016 at 3:16 pm
Maria’s can-do attitude is inspiring! Congratulations to her!
By Teresa Robeson on August 16, 2016 at 3:25 pm
Maria’s story and the Big Tree are an inspiration.
By katmaz2012 on August 16, 2016 at 3:36 pm
Congratulations and thank you for sharing your story.
By Angela Turner on August 16, 2016 at 3:39 pm
Congratulations on your Big break! Also, it looks like you have 3 hands in your photo! No wonder you can write so many books!
By Natasha Wing on August 16, 2016 at 3:44 pm
Love reading these comments. I wanted to also let you guys know I HAD an agent in 2013. We worked famously for 2 years. My Big Tree and Tommy James got to editor table. Then rejected. We exhausted industry. I knew the two needed homes and I wasn’t about to shelve them for five years. For me, the agent wait was a slow process. I wasn’t ready to do it again. I wanted more. I self-pubbed a blended family book Step One, Step Two, Step Three and Four in January 2016. The reviews have been welcoming. I pushed some more and got a gig on radio today for it. Local children’s theater is doing a production on it spring 2017. I I pitched my idea to local mom’s group and trampoline park and we are collaborating for National Step Family Day next month. The reason for the above mention is to go for what you want. Push yourself to the limit. What is the worse they can do? Say no. I’m okay with that. Again, thank you for the support.
By Maria Ashworth on August 16, 2016 at 3:50 pm
That was Big inspiration! Thanks for sharing Maria
By Janice Milusich on August 16, 2016 at 3:53 pm
You are very inspiring to me. I have hope that I will have some success some day still, and I am 68 years old! I look forward to reading all that you have written.
By Melody Aldrich on August 16, 2016 at 4:06 pm
Believe it and it will come.
By Maria Ashworth on August 16, 2016 at 4:18 pm
Congratulations. What an interesting idea. Thanks for sharing.
By Maria Marshall on August 16, 2016 at 4:17 pm
Congratulations on your success. You are truly an inspiration to struggling writers.
By Shirley on August 16, 2016 at 4:22 pm
Thank you for your honesty. I have just been rejected so many times that I have lost count. Actually I purposefully didn’t even begin to count them. But your story has inspired me and so do the beautiful wide eyed darling children out there who need our messages in a picture book. God bless and hugs.
By kiwijenny on August 16, 2016 at 4:23 pm
I know a writer who just turned 100 years old and she still hasn’t given up. Your turn is coming but YOU have to take the reins.
By Maria Ashworth on August 16, 2016 at 4:28 pm
Congratulations! Thanks for sharing your story. I look forward to reading My Big Tree.
By Heather Pierce Stigall on August 16, 2016 at 4:26 pm
Thanks, Maria, for sharing your story, and thanks, Tara, for all you do!
http://www.LiterallyLynneMarie.com
By Lynne Marie on August 16, 2016 at 4:35 pm
This story makes me BIG happy. Congratulations, Maria!
By Nancy Tandon on August 16, 2016 at 4:40 pm
What a heart warming story on so many levels – I just love it! Can’t wait to read the book.
By darlene koppel on August 16, 2016 at 4:44 pm
Wow! I bet you’re glad you went to that conference! Congratulations on your successes, Maria!
By Wendy Greenley on August 16, 2016 at 4:53 pm
My big thing is going on personal writing retreats to ensure I have big chunks of time to pay attention to writing.
By Jenna D Woloshyn on August 16, 2016 at 4:56 pm
Congratulations, Maria. Your story reminds me that conferences are important, and you have to open up and chat with people. Don’t be shy!
By Natasha on August 16, 2016 at 5:14 pm
I think your motto could be “If your ship doesn’t come in, BUILD IT!” Congratulations!! I look forward to reading The Big Tree and your other work.
By Mary McClellan on August 16, 2016 at 5:17 pm
I love that motto. I truly think we go in with high expectations. Don’t. It’s like love. When you least expect it, it finds you.
By Maria Ashworth on August 16, 2016 at 5:22 pm
Congratulations, Maria! It’s good to know that there are always options and ways to forge our own successes. Looking forward to reading your books!
By Judy Sobanski on August 16, 2016 at 5:26 pm
Thanks for sharing Maria’s story. I love hearing about other people’s determination and ultimate success! It spurs my determination to reach my ultimate success. I’m committing to finding an agent this year.
By Kris on August 16, 2016 at 5:47 pm
I loved hearing about your path to publication ~ congratulations!
By Judy Bryan on August 16, 2016 at 5:49 pm
Thank you for sharing your journey Maria. It gives the rest of us hope. I look forward to reading MY BIG TREE.
By Ali Earle Pichardo on August 16, 2016 at 5:55 pm
Looks like MY BIG TREE gives children something BIG to think about.
By Carolyn Rohrbaugh on August 16, 2016 at 6:11 pm
I have BIG dreams for my writing career and my plan is just to keep learning, keep working, and never give up. Thanks, Maria for sharing your inspiring story. And thanks to Tara, too for sending the inspiration along!
By Wendy Doxey on August 16, 2016 at 6:13 pm
Love your idea…very clever.
By M. A. Bentz on August 16, 2016 at 6:17 pm
My writing goals are to publish a middle grade fiction book and learn more about writing picture books.
By Danielle Hammelef on August 16, 2016 at 6:51 pm
Ahhhh! I’m a children’s book fanatic. Mostly because my 2 year old adores reading and that makes my heart swell. I sincerely hope she carries that love over into adulthood as I have.
I am a new blogger and reviewer. In response to your question, I just hope to make some friends and have a successful, fulfilling blogging experience.
By Amber Jerome on August 16, 2016 at 7:29 pm
Love reading about Maria’s success. Helps keep hope alive on the road to being published. Thanks.
By Jim Chaize on August 16, 2016 at 7:37 pm
It looks like an adorable book, and it’s so nice to hear your positive view on indie works! I too, finally just decided to jump in. Congrats!
By Ali Pfautz on August 16, 2016 at 7:47 pm
My big goal is to write the best picture book I possibly can. I want to laugh, and I want to make at least one kid laugh (but preferably lots more than one!!).
By Claire Bobrow on August 16, 2016 at 9:01 pm
Big goals and big dreams in the pursuit of picture book publication. Finding that “perfect timing” moment (and being patient for it!) is part of my big goal. Thank you for an inspirational post.
By laura516 on August 16, 2016 at 10:03 pm
Congratulations! What a great story. Thanks for sharing :).
By rosiepova on August 16, 2016 at 10:54 pm
Thanks for sharing Tara and Maria. It’s just another confirmation that sometimes in life you have to take a risk to reap the benefits. May everyone’s dreams get bigger and bigger as time passes!
By Dawn Pennacchia on August 16, 2016 at 10:58 pm
Congratulations. What an aspiring story. I am looking for a publisher for my books also and your story has inspired me to keep looking.
By Denita Johnson on August 16, 2016 at 11:53 pm
Congratualtions! My big thing is so big I can’t even imagine it yet!
By Juliana Lee on August 17, 2016 at 12:05 am
All of you are inspiring. Keep up the hard work and dedication!
By Maria Ashworth on August 17, 2016 at 12:18 am
Always happy to hear about a fellow author “making it” in an un-orthodox way! I incorporate illustration only characters in a couple of my books as well. Congratulations!
By ingridboydston on August 17, 2016 at 12:22 am
It is always nice to hear about an aspiring writer’s success; especially one’s story that doesn’t follow “the norm”. Congrats to you!
By michelle gajda on August 17, 2016 at 5:30 am
Wow! What an important message! I struggle with being too materialistic . . . sales always catch my eye.
By Kathy Doherty on August 17, 2016 at 7:20 am
BIG congratulations, Maria. To your continued success with publishers big & small.
By ptnozell on August 17, 2016 at 7:59 am
I add my congratulations to all the others with thanks for sharing your journey and reasons for making the choices you did. Continued success with your writing and I look forward to reading My Big Tree and your other books!
By Anne Iverson on August 17, 2016 at 8:04 am
I love that you gave yourself a little more time before pressing the send button. It certainly paid off for you! Wishing you much future success.
By lindamartinandersen on August 17, 2016 at 8:11 am
Maria,
I love hearing your story! Very inspirational! I look forward to reading My Big Tree to my girls. Here’s to holding out for BIG things!
By justcomposeyourself on August 17, 2016 at 8:21 am
WOW! Congratulations, Maria! Another lesson in never giving up 🙂
By Rene` Diane Aube on August 17, 2016 at 8:42 am
Thank you, Maria, for your information about being an Indie author. Congratulations on the publishing of MY BIG TREE. It sounds like a winner! Your marketing strength will definitely pay off.
By Dorothy Wiese on August 17, 2016 at 9:36 am
Thanks for the inspiration to keep writing!
By Susan L. Roberts on August 17, 2016 at 9:42 am
Such a hope inspiring journey for all of us on the path. Thanks for sharing it!
As for me, I’ll keep writing and trying and keep up the hope for someday.
By Krista Isaacson on August 17, 2016 at 10:25 am
I enjoyed the interview. BIG kudos on your BIG multi-book deal, Maria!
By Dee on August 17, 2016 at 11:10 am
I am so glad for you, Maria! Your post was inspiring.
By Micki Ginsberg on August 17, 2016 at 1:33 pm
This sounds like an amazing book! Congratulations on its leading to even bigger things.
By Gloria Amescua on August 17, 2016 at 4:42 pm
What a fun tale to reinforce such an important theme. And I love the random dog-on-the-page idea.
By Leslie Raith on August 17, 2016 at 5:10 pm
I can’t wait to read your book! Thanks for a great interview!
By kirsticall on August 17, 2016 at 6:11 pm
Builds my faith that the lord will open a door for my books!!!
By Emmie r Werner on August 17, 2016 at 9:23 pm
This sounds like an amazing book. I like how it links to what is happening right now.
I have a blog called creative writing and literature, please check it out. The link is, http://www.21stcenturycreativewriting.com/
By Shuko on August 18, 2016 at 7:23 am
What an inspiring story! I love the themes of this book – it would be perfect for my five-year-old right now!
By Angel on August 18, 2016 at 9:54 am
I loved reading about Maria’s journey to publication and this looks like a very special book.
By shiela fuller on August 18, 2016 at 10:59 am
Great story with a great ending. Can’t wait to read the book. Will look for it in my libraries here in Ohio!!
By Kate Harold on August 18, 2016 at 11:12 am
Congratulations and thanks for sharing your story. My BIG plan this year is to wait for an agent to respond to my submissions and if no takers, to find a realistic path to publication on my own – self-publish, indie publisher, I’ll research my options and go onward and upward!
By rimna on August 18, 2016 at 11:34 am
That’s the spirit! You go girl!
By Maria Ashworth on August 18, 2016 at 11:43 am
That’s the spirit! You go girl!
By Maria Ashworth on August 18, 2016 at 11:43 am
You go for it! It will happen! Yes look at all the companies in a book shop, like in the cover pages and decide what you want your book to look like =) goodluck!
By Shuko on August 18, 2016 at 1:27 pm
Love the message in this story! Also great illustrations 🙂
By Erika Hitchcock on August 18, 2016 at 1:13 pm
Thank you for sharing your inspiring stories, the one in your book and the one in your life.
By Kathleen Wilcox on August 19, 2016 at 10:28 pm
What a beautiful book! It’s great to hear your story and all the inspiration in these comments! Congrats!
– Amanda Sincavage
By City Sights for Kids on August 22, 2016 at 9:23 am
My goal this year is to get an agent or editor hooked on my work!
By kdveiten on August 22, 2016 at 11:04 am
Oooh – I LOVE the illustrations! Clear and colorful, and quirky – Beautiful!
By ShellyHY on August 23, 2016 at 10:00 am
I always love getting an inside peek into the creative process of a writer or illustrator…thanks so much, Maria…and all good wishes for your continued success.
Tara, when I first started writing picture book stories, I thought that revision meant changing a couple of words here and there. Time…and many wonderful critique buddies have disabused me of that notion…as I move forward, I am now willing to complete rewrite my manuscripts as I continue to reinvent the shy, timid person I used to be..
By viviankirkfield on August 23, 2016 at 4:12 pm
Congratulations, Maria! It’s amazing how things all come together in the perfect way–at the perfect time. Learning to enjoy the ride is my BIG thing.
By LJ Laniewski on August 23, 2016 at 11:05 pm
Wonderful, inspiring story. Makes you want to keep going at all costs. Thanks for sharing Maria.
By Diane Tulloch on August 24, 2016 at 3:03 am
This sounds like a lovely book. Congrats!
By Linda Evans Hofke on August 24, 2016 at 3:22 am
Maria, this book sounds and looks absolutely lovely, Can’t wait to see it in person!
By Cathy Ogren on August 24, 2016 at 3:18 pm
Congrats on your publishing success!
The message MY BIG TREE gifts readers with is well needed. Thank you!
By Lori Mozdzierz on August 24, 2016 at 7:04 pm
I am overwhelmed by the support. I wish for “BIG” things for all of you. Make sure when it happens to let me know. Hugs to all.
By Maria Ashworth on August 25, 2016 at 10:36 am