Congrats, Storystormers, you are almost done! Tara asked me talk to you about how to get nonfiction ideas.
In fiction, anything is possible. But nonfiction shows the world as it really is, even when reality seems too surprising to be true. Here are some ways to inspire ideas for nonfiction stories.
- Do some self-reflection. Think about your personal history, your areas of expertise, and what subjects capture your fancy. You don’t have to be an authority on your topic, but you should choose something that will hold your attention. You could be living with your manuscript for months, or even years.
- Notice your unique perspective on the world. Pay attention to gaps: places where your views differ from the views of most people. Great ideas lurk in the gaps. For example, I am fascinated by plants and all they do, yet I’m aware that many people—including children—see plants as inert and uninteresting, like green statuary. My desire to share my perspective was the driving force behind PLANTS CAN’T SIT STILL, a picture book about the surprising ways plants move.
- Read about your subject. As a science writer, I read science news religiously, and I’m always on the lookout for intriguing stories. My current work-in-progress is the story of people trying to save a beloved, struggling species. I noticed the story popping up in the news for years. I also noticed that no one was writing about it for children. Last summer, I pitched the story to my editor and landed a book contract.
- Keep your eyes and ears open. You never know when you’ll stumble across an interesting story idea. A few years ago, I was writing a magazine article about Arctic terns, tiny birds that migrate from the Arctic to Antartica every year. I called up a seabird biologist who had studied these birds. We talked at length about them, then we kept talking. He told me about other work he was involved with, like a big research project to track seabirds in advance of offshore wind farm development off the East Coast. That conversation launched me my book BIRDS VS. BLADES?—Offshore Wind Power and the Race to Protect Seabirds.
Finally, read plenty of children’s nonfiction. Today’s nonfiction writers are telling true stories to children in wonderfully inventive ways. Read a hundred books or articles, then a hundred more. You’ll get exposed to an exciting range of possibilities for how to tell your own nonfiction stories.
Rebecca Hirsch grew up climbing trees and splashing in streams in western Pennsylvania. She worked as a plant biologist before becoming a writer. Her many nonfiction books for children include BIRDS VS. BLADES?—Offshore Wind Power and the Race to Save Seabirds, a Junior Library Guild selection, and PLANTS CAN’T SIT STILL, a Kirkus best picture book of 2016. Her newest book is DE-EXTINCTION: The Science of Bringing Lost Species Back to Life. When she’s not writing, you might find her baking bread, playing backyard badminton (badly) with her family, hiking with her dog, or growing plants in her garden.
You can learn more about Rebecca’s books at her website RebeccaHirsch.com. You can follow her on Twitter @RebeccaEHirsch.
Rebecca is giving away one of her books, your choice, either BIRDS VS. BLADES or PLANTS CAN’T SIT STILL.
Leave ONE COMMENT below to enter. You are eligible to win if you are a registered Storystorm participant and you have commented once on this blog post. Prizes will be given away at the conclusion of the event.
Good luck!
419 comments
Comments feed for this article
January 26, 2017 at 10:19 am
Jane Heitman Healy
Rebecca, great to meet you and your great books! Thanks for the tips, especially reading current children’s non-fiction. It is every bit as gripping as fiction if written well–maybe even more so because it is true. Much continued success to you!
January 26, 2017 at 10:19 am
jodimckay
Thanks for inspiring us, Rebecca!
January 26, 2017 at 10:21 am
carol calladine
Your titles are wonderful. Love, Plants Can’t Sit Still. Thank you for an inspiring post. I have been venturing and more into non-fiction.
January 26, 2017 at 10:21 am
Mary Wagley Copp
This is so inspirational Rebecca. I would love to try my hand a NF PB. This is the prompt I needed…
January 26, 2017 at 10:21 am
Sarah Lynne Reul
Thanks so much for sharing, Rebecca – I love your concept of “looking for the gaps”, and the plants book sounds awesome, I will have to check it out!
January 26, 2017 at 10:21 am
lmconnors
I found Plants Can’t Sit Still recently and absolutely loved it! I had one of those, ‘wish I’d written this’ moments and I blogged about it on my website and wrote a lesson plan to go with it. I look forward to reading your other books.
January 26, 2017 at 10:21 am
Lauren Barbieri
I can’t wait to read these–especially PLANTS CAN’T SIT STILL!
January 26, 2017 at 10:24 am
tinamcho
Thank you for sharing how you got your NF ideas. I like writing nonfiction books.
January 26, 2017 at 10:24 am
loriannlevyholm
The real world is many times more fascinating than fiction. Thank you for your post and asking us to look for gaps!
January 26, 2017 at 10:24 am
Kelly Rice Schmitt
Thank you for this great advice on how to best hone your own experiences for great NF PB ideas!
January 26, 2017 at 10:25 am
Monica A. Harris
Rebecca – thank you for sharing where you’ve gotten inspiration before. As a fiction AND nonfiction writer, people often ask me how I can switch ‘writing brains’. In reality, it isn’t that difficult as long as you’re intrigued, curious, or inspired by something in the world. Librarians have often told me that young kids just eat up nonfiction books so my question to fellow writers is….why not write what kids love?! 🙂
January 26, 2017 at 10:25 am
stiefelchana
Love your topics! Great advice.
January 26, 2017 at 10:26 am
Mavis Penney
Pick a topic that will hold your attention… You will be living with it for years. Re-write, re-write, re-write! Thanks for these tips. 🙂
January 26, 2017 at 10:28 am
tanjabauerle
I love your suggestions. Thank you for a great post to start the day. T
January 26, 2017 at 10:28 am
katmaz2012
Thank you for the ideas for getting the idea!
January 26, 2017 at 10:28 am
Alice Fulgione
I especially appreciate your suggestion about writing about interesting subjects from our unique perspectives. Thanks for sharing!
January 26, 2017 at 10:29 am
Deborah Allmand
As a former educator, nonfiction is so good for kids to read but time and time again its uninteresting. Thank you for producing exciting nonfiction books for kids. Thanks for the post.
January 26, 2017 at 10:32 am
poppywrote
Both books sound like wonderful giveaways! Thank you for the great write up and donations…
January 26, 2017 at 10:33 am
David McMullin
Rebecca, I love your approach. Thanks for the inspiration.
January 26, 2017 at 10:33 am
hmmmmm
Rebecca — I’m SO happy to learn about your work! Thanks for the post!!
January 26, 2017 at 10:34 am
Kristi Romo
Thank you for an inspiring post. Your unique perspective about topics is what makes your stories so great!
January 26, 2017 at 10:37 am
PJ
Thanks for sharing, Rebecca. Congratulations on your books! I hadn’t considered non-fiction. Hmmmm…. : )
January 26, 2017 at 10:37 am
Michele Meleen
A very interesting take on approaching non-fiction! Thanks for sharing 🙂
January 26, 2017 at 10:37 am
Elisa Solea
thank you for sharing
January 26, 2017 at 10:37 am
Sherry Howard
What an interesting story! Love the cover of Plants Can’t Sit Still! Rebecca is an author I’d love to know more about! Can’t wait to get familiar with her writing.
January 26, 2017 at 10:38 am
Maria Bostian
Thank you for a great post and for sharing these wonderful topics with children.
January 26, 2017 at 10:38 am
cedricgliane
Your books are fascinating.
January 26, 2017 at 10:38 am
Sherri Jones Rivers
Wow. Great info for us die hard nonfiction writers. Love the idea of plants not staying still. I must order that one. We are always learning, aren’t we?
January 26, 2017 at 10:39 am
julietclarebell
Great ideas lurk in the gaps. Brilliant. Thanks, Clare.
January 26, 2017 at 10:40 am
Stephanie Geckle
Very interesting! My 2nd grader is learning about extinction in school and mentioned (just a few days ago) about bringing old species back to life. Fascinating! Can’t wait to read De-Extinction!
And great tips. Thank you for this post 😊
January 26, 2017 at 10:44 am
makz5650
I love this post. I have an idea for a nonfiction picture book and had some questions in my mind of how to best present it. Your thoughts helped a lot. Thank you. I may be contacting l you via email with some questions.
January 26, 2017 at 10:44 am
Kim Pfennigwerth
Fun post and ideas! – love the idea of plants not being statuary and can’t wait to read your book.
January 26, 2017 at 10:45 am
June Sengpiehl
What a fascinating post. I enjoyed it immensely.
January 26, 2017 at 10:45 am
Kelly Vavala
Thank you for this inspiring post Rebecca! I especially enjoyed the part about our unique perspective on the world…Pay attention to the gaps! I find I do have a lot more gaps than others but that’s a good thing in my book…and that’s the truth!! Nonfiction!! I wish you continued success!
January 26, 2017 at 10:47 am
Janet AlJunaidi
Rebecca, thanks for sharing these ideas for generating ideas. I’ve starred your post in my notebook to re-read again and again when I’m stuck.
January 26, 2017 at 10:48 am
writeknit
Thanks for sharing your work and non-fiction tips. I love quirky facts and often need to know more so this is right up my alley. Off to the kid’s section of the library to get my first 100 books started 🙂
January 26, 2017 at 10:51 am
Lynne Marie
Thanks for sharing, Rebecca! You have helped me cultivate some seeds. Best, Lynne Marie
January 26, 2017 at 10:53 am
rgstones
Thanks for your post and for suggestions for finding non-fiction ideas.
January 26, 2017 at 10:53 am
Gayle Veitenheimer
You’ve really got me thinking! Thanks so much for sharing.
January 26, 2017 at 10:54 am
Nancy Rimar
Thanks for the inspiration.
January 26, 2017 at 10:55 am
Sharon Langley
Most of my stories are social studies/history related. I haven’t tackled science writing…I think I need more information to feel ready to try it. Thanks. Maybe, I will.
January 26, 2017 at 10:56 am
mariagianferrari
HUGE fan of reading and writing NF, Rebecca!! I loved both of these books! Plants is so lovely and lyrical, and as a bird nerd, I really enjoyed reading about the science behind placing the wind turbines in strategic place to avoid migrating birds–so fascinatiing. Your next book sounds wonderful too–congrats! I’ll look forward to reading it as a fan of science-y/nature oriented books 🙂
January 26, 2017 at 10:56 am
kathalsey
I have found quite a few NF ideas as i round out my lists. Would love to win either book! TY for this informative post.
January 26, 2017 at 10:59 am
Sandy Brown Lowe
Rebecca and Tara – thank you for this non-fiction perspective. I’ve recently determined I’d like to do more NF writing and I’m grateful for some direction.
January 26, 2017 at 10:59 am
pattywaymedic
You helped me see all micro-niches of subject matter out there! Fascinating stuff!
January 26, 2017 at 11:00 am
Polly Renner
Thank you, Rebecca! You given me new things to think about in regards to writing nonfiction! Hope your badminton game improves, too! Ha ha!
January 26, 2017 at 11:01 am
mariaordish
Thanks Rebecca! I just ordered NG magazine again…will be on the lookout for interesting non-fiction!
January 26, 2017 at 11:01 am
Lori Dubbin
Thank you for your advice to look for the gaps, especially topics that haven’t been written for children yet. I won’t sit still until I get my hands on PLANTS CAN’T SIT STILL! The title has me hooked.
January 26, 2017 at 11:04 am
nabinava
I have thought about writing non fiction. This is a great informative post that gives me a starting point. Thank you, Rebecca
January 26, 2017 at 11:06 am
Rebecca E. Guzinski
Thank you for bringing knowledge about nonfiction to our attention. It is also vital that children are exposed to such topics.
January 26, 2017 at 11:08 am
Joana Pastro
Thanks, Rebecca! I’ve been thinking about writing a non fiction book for a while. I have an idea that I really like, but I’m unsure about the market. I guess finding that out is part of research, right?
January 26, 2017 at 11:08 am
Laura Hancock
Great ideas again. I worked with struggled readers for years and many students love nonfiction books!
January 26, 2017 at 11:08 am
Genevieve Petrillo
It’s the research that scares me away from nonfiction. Dreaming up a story in my head seems like play, but finding primary sources and reliable information seems like work. I will take your advice and try to read 100 nonfiction books. After that, I’ll decide about the “hundred more.” 🙂
January 26, 2017 at 11:09 am
Cathy C. Hall
I find non-fiction gems all the time and yet I resist writing those books for fiction. I think the universe is trying to tell me something. (Like write NF!) 🙂
January 26, 2017 at 11:09 am
Krissy
I’ve never thought about writing NF, even though I love reading about wild animals. I might give it a go! Thanks for the inspiration!
January 26, 2017 at 11:10 am
Lindsay Hanson Metcalf
I was so excited to see a post about nonfiction this morning. Thanks, Rebecca!
January 26, 2017 at 11:10 am
fspoesy
In honor of this post, Rebecca, I’m going to come up with a non-fiction storystorm idea for today! I’m also going to push myself to continue to come up with non-fiction ideas. And thanks for reminding me that non-fiction was a big part of my early reading experience. I was obsessed with Native Americans and their culture and read everything in my school library about them.
January 26, 2017 at 11:10 am
Zainab
Your post was very informative. Thanks for posting it.
January 26, 2017 at 11:14 am
Deborah Amadei
I have a biography project I’m passionate about but am having problems simplifying the language.
January 26, 2017 at 11:14 am
suzannepoulterharris
What great titles for books. You certainly know how to hook your readers. I’ve just started writing nonfiction and found your tips most helpful. Thanks!
January 26, 2017 at 11:15 am
C.L. Murphy
I just love authors that educate our children about the world in an entertaining way. Thank you for being one of them, Rebecca. Great post!
January 26, 2017 at 11:15 am
Cathy Stenquist
Thanks for your article on NF. You made me think about what I am passionate about and what I would enjoy researching.
January 26, 2017 at 11:15 am
Gretchen Haertsch
Good tips for coming up with ideas for nonfiction. I’m particularly interested in the creative ways writers are presenting nonfiction topics and this post proves the point. Rebecca’s own examples underline her words!
January 26, 2017 at 11:16 am
bewestcott
Thank you for sharing these ideas about making the non-fiction world interesting to kids.
January 26, 2017 at 11:18 am
mona861
I love everything “real”l about non-fiction! Thanks for giving us your take on how to go about collecting ideas. Your book looks wonderful! Thanks again, Rebecca.
January 26, 2017 at 11:18 am
Kerrie
Feeling inspired. Thank you!
January 26, 2017 at 11:19 am
Cheryl
Wonderful. Love non-fiction PBs. They — and the facts they provide — are only going to become more important.
January 26, 2017 at 11:19 am
Stephen S. Martin
Thanx for the Poke. I have had several NF ideas and shelved them for fiction. Time to dust them off.
January 26, 2017 at 11:20 am
Darcie Durr
Love your insight and can’t wait to read Plants Cane Sit Still!
January 26, 2017 at 11:21 am
kiwijenny
Thank you Rebecca this is inspiring. I especially liked the gaps. I’m an artist and I draw by focusing on the gaps of shadow and the ‘not’ parts.
You’ve pushed my mind in a different direction. Thanks
January 26, 2017 at 11:22 am
darlene koppel
Rebecca, Thanks for the tips. I enjoy writing nonfiction so I appreciated your ideas.
January 26, 2017 at 11:25 am
Daryl Gottier
Thanks for your inspiration! I loved “Plants Can’t Stat Still” and will be using it in a nature class I help lead.
January 26, 2017 at 11:28 am
Judy Bryan
Thank you for sharing how you come up with ideas, Rebecca. Great tips! Wishing you continued success!!
January 26, 2017 at 11:29 am
Elsa Takaoka
A Kirkus best picture book of 2016. Wow! congratulations! Writing non-fiction seems so satisfying like a beloved college course.
January 26, 2017 at 11:30 am
Janie Reinart
Rebecca thank you for the tips. Looking forward to reading your books❤
January 26, 2017 at 11:31 am
Kate Harold
Great suggestions, Rebecca! Thanks so much for sharing.
January 26, 2017 at 11:32 am
Katelyn Aronson
Well, your ideas for non-fiction books have certainly been wonderful, Rebecca! I’m working on my first non-fiction picture book ever, and am loving the process (always wrote fiction before)! Thanks for all the great advice here.
January 26, 2017 at 11:33 am
Katie Engen
Yes to nonfiction picture books! And yes to erradicating people’s ‘plant blindness!’
January 26, 2017 at 11:34 am
Jacqueline Adams
It’s great to find a fellow western PA, tree-climbing, stream-splashing girl here! I like your idea about looking for the gaps.
January 26, 2017 at 11:36 am
danielledufayet
Your non-fiction ideas are inspiring! Here’s to wishing you a ton more ideas and continued success!
January 26, 2017 at 11:37 am
Sheri Radovich
You’ve made the topic very interesting. Do you just pitch an idea and then write the book in a space of time they give you? Or do you pitch it with a rough draft started? Thanks
January 26, 2017 at 11:37 am
Rita D. Russell
The best stories aren’t made up — they’re real! Truth is absolutely stranger than fiction. Thanks for the reminder. 🙂
January 26, 2017 at 11:38 am
Mari
Thanks for the inspiration!
January 26, 2017 at 11:39 am
Meli Glickman
Your words motivate me, and your passion for protecting nature inspires me. One of my non-fiction ideas comes from a deep inner place of passion and purpose (much like where your ideas seem to come from), so I thank you for sharing your wisdom!
January 26, 2017 at 11:40 am
JEN Garrett
Thanks for this! Yesterday’s idea was nonfiction, and I didn’t know exactly how to proceed. 🙂
January 26, 2017 at 11:42 am
Meghan Burch
Thanks for your ideas on bringing life to non-fiction work!
January 26, 2017 at 11:42 am
Erin Pearson
Thanks for the great tips. Self-reflection and reading science news are perfect ideas for me.
January 26, 2017 at 11:43 am
Lane M Arnold
I have so many ideas in this arena…thanks for encouraging me to explore them.
January 26, 2017 at 11:46 am
Mary Forness Miller (@Daizylublue)
Knowledge is power. Love reading nonfiction. I know children love it, too. And NF books for kids can be fun and exciting to read. Thank you for the post!
January 26, 2017 at 11:46 am
Beth Blee
Thanks for sharing your ideas on writing non-fiction. You’ve encouraged me to try my first non-fiction book. Thanks! Looking forward to reading your books.
January 26, 2017 at 11:49 am
Darlene Ivy
I love to write nonfiction. Your suggestions are right on. There are topics everywhere!
January 26, 2017 at 11:49 am
angie9091
Plants Can’t Sit Still looks wonderful! I would love to pick you brain about writing nonfiction.
January 26, 2017 at 11:49 am
ManjuBeth
Thanks! I love – “Great ideas lurk in the gaps.” And I’m very interested in studying your new PB – DE-EXTINCTION: The Science of Bringing Lost Species Back to Life.
January 26, 2017 at 11:49 am
Carmela McCain Simmons
Thanks for sharing the idea of personal perspective!
January 26, 2017 at 11:50 am
Caren L Cantrell
Non-fiction is interesting but the research required to produce a quality book can sometimes feel daunting, even with an interesting subject.
January 26, 2017 at 11:52 am
Linda Norman-Lyman
I love your suggestion to look for the gaps. As I was writing this comment, an idea started to form. Thank you!
January 26, 2017 at 11:53 am
ptnozell
Thanks, Rebecca, for sharing your many tips about writing non-fiction.
January 26, 2017 at 11:59 am
Marlene Rohr
Thanks, Rebecca, your post is most interesting! This is a genre I am looking into with great interest. Currently at the reading 100 or more non-fiction books stage!
January 26, 2017 at 12:01 pm
Donna L Martin
I find writing historical fiction and narrative non-fiction so much fun as it gives me an excuse to expand my knowledge base AND share fun stories with children…
Great post!
January 26, 2017 at 12:02 pm
tiemdow
Thank you for your help! Your books look wonderful!
January 26, 2017 at 12:02 pm
sarita f
What a gem of a post. Love the title, “Plants Can’t Sit Still.” Wonderful way to get kids to see plants and nature in a completely different light.
January 26, 2017 at 12:02 pm
laura516
When I taught elementary school, I would make note of the “gaps” when I couldn’t find books on a topic. Teachers are a great resource.
January 26, 2017 at 12:03 pm
Teresa Robeson
So true about living with your topic for a long time…I’ve been working on a biography for 4 years now…and a nonfiction subject for 5. I need to check out Birds Vs. Blades; I know the topic well from reading Living Bird, ABC, and Audubon magazines, among other environmental publications, but I need to see how a kid lit writer conveys the topic to children. Thanks for the tips and insights!
January 26, 2017 at 12:06 pm
Robin Brett Wechsler
Your books sound really fascinating, Rebecca. And I love the inspiration behind them! Thanks for sharing!
January 26, 2017 at 12:07 pm
Gabi Snyder
I love the idea of finding ideas lurking in the gaps. And I’m fascinated by de-extinction, too. I’m looking forward to the release of your new book!
January 26, 2017 at 12:11 pm
Meena
Non-fiction is my cup of tea. I keep my antennae up for science stories. Thanks for the inspiration and sharing your success!
January 26, 2017 at 12:15 pm
katiemillsgiorgio
Thanks for sharing!
January 26, 2017 at 12:16 pm
Angie
Lovely ideas! Thank you! Gonna go think about my gaps…
January 26, 2017 at 12:16 pm
Beth Anderson
excellent post – thanks!
January 26, 2017 at 12:17 pm
Michele Helsel
De-extinction sounds interesting! Thanks for the inspirations!
January 26, 2017 at 12:24 pm
Debra Shumaker
One of my favorite NF PBs of all times is “Plants Can’t Sit Still.” I love writing NF and this post was perfect timing as I need LOTS of ideas by Tuesday! Thanks so much!
January 26, 2017 at 12:25 pm
theresenagi
Rebecca thanks for reminding us to look for the gaps and do find a stories. I really enjoyed reading your book “Plants Can’t Sit Still”. You used such lyrical language to show movement with the plants.
January 26, 2017 at 12:31 pm
Rene` Diane Aube
Thanks for the non-fiction inspiration, Rebecca! Lots of reflection should produce some great reading for our kids’ and grandkids’ sponge-like minds. Happy StoryStorm Day 26 🙂
January 26, 2017 at 12:32 pm
Sandie vaisnoras
Thank you for this great post. I love non fiction picture books. This gives me inspiration and some direction.
January 26, 2017 at 12:32 pm
Poupette Smith
Invaluable, fabulous topics, including those on your website. Timely in all senses of the word and sure to open children’s eyes. Yea for nonfiction, too! As a (published) writer of sea-related nonfiction for adults, am now inspired to try it for children.
January 26, 2017 at 12:36 pm
Cassandra Federman
Great advice! Thank you!
January 26, 2017 at 12:36 pm
authordebradaugherty
As someone who hasn’t ventured (yet) into writing non-fiction, I found your post inspiring. Thank you.
January 26, 2017 at 12:36 pm
Cathy Ogren
Excellent way of looking for nonfiction ideas. Great post.
January 26, 2017 at 12:42 pm
Susan Latta
Thanks for the advice. Would to hear more about NF PB!
January 26, 2017 at 12:46 pm
debmeyercreative
Thank you, Rebecca. I have been finding myself coming up with more NF ideas this time around. I’ve never been one to read them much before, but within the past 6 months, I’ve gotten hooked. 🙂 Yours sound fascinating.
January 26, 2017 at 12:56 pm
nrompella
All your books sound wonderful! Thanks for sharing!
January 26, 2017 at 12:59 pm
Beverly R. Marsh
Wonderful advice and I’ll be checking out “Plants Can’t Sit Still”.
January 26, 2017 at 12:59 pm
ajschildrensbooks
I have a few NF ideas. Thank you!
January 26, 2017 at 1:00 pm
Joan Swanson
I love science too. Thank you for the advise!
January 26, 2017 at 1:00 pm
donnacangelosi
Thank you for your suggestions, Rebecca! Looking forward to reading your books! Great titles!
January 26, 2017 at 1:00 pm
triciacandy
Thank you! I now have a nonfiction idea brewing…
January 26, 2017 at 1:04 pm
Elise
Love the part: great ideas lurk in the gaps. Thanks for the inspiration!
January 26, 2017 at 1:06 pm
Shirley
Thanks for the post. My pastime is watching birds in my backyard. It’s a shame that they are getting killed by energy efficient blades.
January 26, 2017 at 1:07 pm
Pam Miller
Thank you for prompting 3 possible nonfiction books I would love to write. And thanks for writing your successful books.
January 26, 2017 at 1:08 pm
Kristen Browning
Thanks for your inspiring post. I love the NF PBs that are coming out these days and can’t wait to try my hand at the genre. I look forward to reading Plants Can’t Sit Still!
January 26, 2017 at 1:08 pm
Joan Marie Arbogast
Rebecca, Thanks for your insights. I love nonfiction! And congrats on your title, Plants Can’t Sit Still making the list! Well deserved.
January 26, 2017 at 1:12 pm
Michelle Cusolito
Thank you.
This is one of my passions, too… writing science non-fiction books.
January 26, 2017 at 1:13 pm
Lucy Staugler
Rebecca, thank you for making nonfiction come alive for children (and adults!). There are so many children that love nonfiction and thanks to you, and other creative writers, being a nonfiction reader is now cool in school👍
January 26, 2017 at 1:14 pm
Charlotte Dixon
Thank you, Rebecca, for these excellent tips to search for those nonfiction ideas. Congrats on your winning NFPB, PLANTS CAN’T SIT STILL.
January 26, 2017 at 1:14 pm
Lisa Freund
Inspiring post! Thanks for sharing.
January 26, 2017 at 1:16 pm
Sara Matson
Thanks for sharing! I’m so glad nonfiction is being included in this discussion of idea-gathering, and I appreciate your useful tips.
January 26, 2017 at 1:16 pm
writerjodimoore
So proud of you, your passion and your words, Rebecca…both here and in your books! I feel like a proud Auntie! 😉 ❤
January 26, 2017 at 1:18 pm
Melanie Lucero
Thank you for the glimpse into your process–fascinating!
January 26, 2017 at 1:20 pm
seschipper
Thanks for sharing these “words of wisdom”! 🙂
January 26, 2017 at 1:21 pm
Janet Halfmann
I love writing nonfiction and look forward to reading your books. Meanwhile, will be searching in the gaps for ideas.
January 26, 2017 at 1:28 pm
gretchengeser
Yay for non-fiction! Thanks for posting about it.
January 26, 2017 at 1:30 pm
Sharon Nix Jones
Very interesting to read.
January 26, 2017 at 1:30 pm
Ann Kelley
Very inspiring post! Thank you!
January 26, 2017 at 1:31 pm
Kay Deans
Thanks for the inspiration.
January 26, 2017 at 1:35 pm
Stephanie Shaw
I so appreciate the dedication to research that nonfiction writers do! And, we desperately need more nonfiction books for kids — they love them!
Great post. Thank you!
January 26, 2017 at 1:41 pm
mcdonaldrae
Nonfiction has a magnetic pull for kids. This generation has taken to their world like ever before. Thanks for the push to write what we know, our passions, and go on and share with readers. A good engaging narrative is a great start. Thank you.
January 26, 2017 at 1:41 pm
Carol Gwin Nelson
Thanks for the ideas about nonfiction. They are such an important learning tool for children.
January 26, 2017 at 1:42 pm
Carolyn Rohrbaugh
Helpful ideas
January 26, 2017 at 1:43 pm
August Washington
Thank you for a wonderful post. I’ve never really considered writing nonfiction picture books before, I may have to rethink that decision.
January 26, 2017 at 1:45 pm
Melissa Stoller
Rebecca – thanks for these helpful tips and examples about how you were inspired to write your NF books. I especially like your statement that great ideas lurk in the gaps. I look forward to reading your work!
January 26, 2017 at 1:45 pm
Rebecca Colby
So nice to see a post on non-fiction ideas! Thanks for the inspiration, Rebecca!
January 26, 2017 at 1:51 pm
Nicki Jacobsmeyer
Non fiction is my passion! Thank you for sharing your inspiring ideas!
January 26, 2017 at 1:55 pm
teresa.mi.schaefer
Agreed — many NF writers have found wonderfully inventive ways to tell the truth
January 26, 2017 at 1:57 pm
Jeanine Potter Lovell
Thank you for some invaluable tips and insights.
January 26, 2017 at 1:59 pm
susanhaderlie
Very interesting….thanks!
January 26, 2017 at 1:59 pm
Carrie Tillotson
Thanks, Rebecca. I can’t wait to read “Plants Can’t Sit Still.”
January 26, 2017 at 2:02 pm
saputnam
Great post, Rebecca! Thank you for the great tips! “Great ideas lurk in the gaps.” I love that! I love reading adult nonfiction and have quite a few nonfiction manuscripts for children that I am working on… along with working on a couple of historical non-fiction Chapter Books as well as a Middle Grade manuscript.
January 26, 2017 at 2:06 pm
Rachel Critchley
As a retired science teacher and non-fiction writer, I particularly enjoyed your suggestions. “Plants Can’t Sit Still” sounds wonderful. Thanks for the information.
January 26, 2017 at 2:07 pm
Anne Iverson
Some of our best ideas and inspirations can come from our own back yard, or so to speak/ Thanks for sharing your interesting post, Rebecca!
January 26, 2017 at 2:21 pm
Leslie Leibhardt Goodman - Writer
The advice to choose a topic you can live with for years struck a note with me. I have a list of NF topics I’m interested in. I’ll take a closer look and see which one I’d love to spend A LOT of time with. Thank you for a great post.
January 26, 2017 at 2:33 pm
Heather
Thanks, Rebecca! I want to try my hand at non-fiction. This post will help.
January 26, 2017 at 2:39 pm
bamauthor
All valid points and ideas that we nonfiction writers need to ponder.
January 26, 2017 at 2:48 pm
Susie Sawyer
THIS: “Pay attention to gaps: places where your views differ from the views of most people.” – is brilliant advice! Thank you Rebecca! You’ve inspired me!
January 26, 2017 at 2:49 pm
Catherine F
Thanks for the push Rebecca. I have had an idea for a long time. I should probably get on and turn into a NF picture book!
January 26, 2017 at 3:03 pm
Laura Jean Watters
Nonfiction that focuses on children is so important. The shift in elementary school instruction to place a greater emphasis on nonfiction literature creates opportunities for helping support critical thinking. Thanks Rebecca for the nudge!
January 26, 2017 at 3:11 pm
Kerry Ariail
Wow! What a great post, when just this morning I wrote down 2 non-fiction Story Storm ideas! Thanks for the tips, and I’m looking forward to reading your books!
January 26, 2017 at 3:14 pm
Ali Pfautz
Great advice. Thank you!
January 26, 2017 at 3:15 pm
Wendy Doxey
Wonderful inspiration! Thank you! I look forward to reading “Plants can’t sit still.”
January 26, 2017 at 3:28 pm
Tracy Hora
Nice post that really got me thinking…
January 26, 2017 at 3:28 pm
Sharon
I love the idea that great ideas lurk in the gaps.
January 26, 2017 at 3:28 pm
Robin Currie
We need creative nonfiction so much now! Thank you.
January 26, 2017 at 3:30 pm
Damon Dean, SevenAcreSky
Rebecca, one of your first statements resonated with me: “You could be living with your manuscript for months, or even years.” I really appreciate a current wip because I love the topic. And it’s evolved as I’ve learned and studied more. Thanks for great viewpoints on NF idea sources.
January 26, 2017 at 3:32 pm
Brenda Huante
I love Plants Can’t Sit Still! Thank you for your ideas.
January 26, 2017 at 3:34 pm
meganleewrites
Great ideas, Rebecca. Thank you!
January 26, 2017 at 3:37 pm
setwiggs
rebecca,
Thanks for the urging to go with my curiosity and passion in nonfiction ideas. Looking forward to reading your books.
January 26, 2017 at 3:38 pm
Suzanne Alexander
I am very interested in writing nonfiction so thank you for your tips.
January 26, 2017 at 3:40 pm
angkunkel
I have several NF ideas kicking around since Storystorm. Thanks for your advice!
January 26, 2017 at 3:44 pm
Kim Ball
I loved your book PLANTS CAN’T SIT STILL. One of my New Year resolutions is to read more PB non-fiction, and it’s paying off. Several of my StoryStorm ideas are non-fiction. Thanks for the wonderful ideas for coming up with even more.
January 26, 2017 at 3:44 pm
Cortney Benvenuto
Great ideas! Thanks for sharing!
January 26, 2017 at 3:46 pm
Sheri
Great advice! Having grown up in the countryside and taught science at the elementary level, I feel it is very important to impart not only the facts but the enthusiasm for the natural world to the next generations.
January 26, 2017 at 3:48 pm
artsyandi
Fantastic ideas… thanks for this post!
January 26, 2017 at 3:49 pm
betlw
Your post was inspiring. I always have a bunch of topics that I google to find out more about. Now maybe i should consider doing more research and write about them. Great post, Rebecca!
January 26, 2017 at 3:53 pm
Gina L
I am so glad you did this post. I love this genre and there is so much to glean from nature. I can’t wait to dive into a nonfiction idea. Thank you!
January 26, 2017 at 3:57 pm
Brianna Zamborsky
I checked out Plants Can’t Sit Still a few months ago from the library and LOVED it. So fun to know a little more about you and how it came to exist. Thanks for the post!
January 26, 2017 at 4:02 pm
Lucretia
Thank you for sharing some great ideas, Rebecca.
January 26, 2017 at 4:06 pm
Dani Duck
I love the idea of writing non-fiction for children. I just never seem to be able to come up with ideas. You are 100% right! I need to read kid’s non-fiction or else I’m going to have trouble with ideas and writing!
January 26, 2017 at 4:22 pm
Dayne Sislen, Children's Book Illustrator
Thanks for an introduction to non-fiction for kids. Sounds like your plants take after me, I can’t sit still either.
January 26, 2017 at 4:22 pm
amievc
Thanks for this great post! I love the perspective you took with “Plants Can’t Sit Still.” An obvious truth–once you stated it 🙂
January 26, 2017 at 4:32 pm
Carleen M. Tjader
Good to keep an open mind on writing nonfiction picture books. Your nonfiction books look inviting! Thank you.
January 26, 2017 at 4:39 pm
JenFW
Nonfiction rocks!
January 26, 2017 at 4:43 pm
Kathryn Hagen
Superb ideas for inspiring non-fiction! Thank you.
January 26, 2017 at 4:44 pm
Lucky Jo Boscarino
Ah, so we should mind the gaps?
January 26, 2017 at 4:46 pm
writingcygnet
I love writing nonfiction as well as fiction. A good many years ago, I had a magazine editor ask me if I wrote nonfiction and told me what she needed. That led to me writing a regular nature column for her magazine which eventually led to me becoming the editor when the editor I had been working with was promoted to a different position. Nonfiction is so much fun because truth really IS stranger than fiction!
Susan Swan
(PS-I also grew up in western PA and still live in that same suburb of Pittsburgh)
January 26, 2017 at 4:47 pm
jeanne curtin
I grew up climbing trees and splashing through streams too. 🙂
You’ve got me thinking about writing a non-fiction book or two. Thanks for the inspiration, and for the post!
January 26, 2017 at 4:48 pm
R.J. Koehn
Great post. Thank you!
January 26, 2017 at 4:55 pm
authoraileenstewart
Great ideas. Thanks!
January 26, 2017 at 5:13 pm
Annaliese Arnold
Some great food for thought when thinking about writing non-fiction stories.
January 26, 2017 at 5:15 pm
LeeAnn Rizzuti
Your books sound extremely interesting–more to add to my reading list.
January 26, 2017 at 5:22 pm
Lynn A. Davidson
Being on the east coast and witnessing the push for increasing use of wind power, I worry about the birds. There’s so much to write about, and I rarely think about how to fit this information into picture books. Thank you, Rebecca, for this insight.
January 26, 2017 at 5:34 pm
sherbyland17
Can’t sit still! Love it. Thanks for encouraging us in the direction of nonfiction. Some fantastic ideas to be mined in that realm.
January 26, 2017 at 5:35 pm
Melanie Ellsworth
Rebecca, thank you! The part of your post about utilizing personal history for ideas just sparked some story ideas – fiction, though! But you’ve also got me thinking about an old non-fiction idea I haven’t researched yet but can’t let go of…
January 26, 2017 at 5:36 pm
Brittanny Handiboe
That’s cool. I like science!
January 26, 2017 at 5:37 pm
Kathy Doherty
Thanks for cheering us on! The finish line is near!
January 26, 2017 at 5:43 pm
Steve Schwartz
Thanks for sharing your approach. Inspiring.
January 26, 2017 at 5:51 pm
Kathy O'Neill
Thanks for your ideas on nonfiction for children. Very helpful!
January 26, 2017 at 5:56 pm
storyfairy
Great ideas for writing nonfiction. Thanks!
January 26, 2017 at 5:56 pm
Elizabeth Metz
I’ve never written nonfiction, but there are so many amazing nonfiction picture books being written lately that it inspires me to get in on the action. Love these suggestions!
January 26, 2017 at 5:58 pm
Martin Segal
Thank you for the great ideas, Rebecca!
January 26, 2017 at 5:59 pm
kimmcculley7
Thank you for sharing!
January 26, 2017 at 6:05 pm
megcason1
“Great ideas lurk in the gaps.”
So true!! Thank you Rebecca!
January 26, 2017 at 6:19 pm
Laura Purdie Salas
Such helpful advice for nonfiction beginners. And your PLANTS CAN’T SIT STILL is just gorgeous. Way to go, Rebecca!
January 26, 2017 at 6:20 pm
Sara Kvols
Wonderful idea!
January 26, 2017 at 6:24 pm
Amanda Sincavage
Great timing! A spark of an idea kept pestering me and last night it hit me full force as a NF idea. Thanks for these tips!
January 26, 2017 at 6:24 pm
lindaschueler
I love plants too, but I recognize that often kids think they are uninteresting. Thanks for giving us a picture book that shows them otherwise.
January 26, 2017 at 6:25 pm
Buffy Silverman
Great suggestions–thank you!
January 26, 2017 at 6:31 pm
lorigravley
I love your ideas about looking in the gaps between what we know and what other people know.
January 26, 2017 at 6:49 pm
Anna Smith
Great post. Thanks for the nonfiction inspiration!
January 26, 2017 at 6:54 pm
pathaap
Never considered non-fiction before . . . until I read this post. Thanks, Rebecca!
January 26, 2017 at 7:08 pm
harmonee2014
Thanks for sharing your ideas, Rebecca! I look forward to reading Plants Can’t Sit Still – right up my alley!
January 26, 2017 at 7:16 pm
mkresk
This is great advice and you bring up several things I am trying to incorporate in my own writing. I happen to have PLANTS CAN’T SIT STILL checked out from the library right now. I found it and thought it was a terrific example of lively, playful picture book non-fiftion. I love it! Thanks!
January 26, 2017 at 7:25 pm
Alicia Lopez
THanks for the non-fiction inspiration. I have a few ideas up my sleeve now.
January 26, 2017 at 7:31 pm
Sylvia Mary Grech
Never thought about non-fiction before!
January 26, 2017 at 7:35 pm
Nancy Ramsey
Great post! It would be fun to give non-fiction a try! Thanks for the inspiration!
January 26, 2017 at 7:38 pm
Artelle Lenthall
Amazing, other than swaying in the breeze I’ve never thought of plants moving. Thanks Rebecca
January 26, 2017 at 7:38 pm
Cathy Breisacher
Your books sound wonderful. I will have to get them for my library.
January 26, 2017 at 7:54 pm
hdmerrill
Thanks for your great post!
January 26, 2017 at 7:56 pm
denarose
Thanks for the wonderful advice! “Plants Can’t Sit Still” sounds wonderful.
January 26, 2017 at 8:04 pm
Courtenay Schurman
I enjoyed this post and am heading over to the library right now to reserve some of your books. Inspirational! Thanks!
January 26, 2017 at 8:05 pm
Erik Ammon
Oh, what great ideas! Now to write them down!!
January 26, 2017 at 8:12 pm
Kate (@KateGiard)
Thanks for making interesting books about the real world! Excellent point about watching for the gap. Wonderful idea!
January 26, 2017 at 8:14 pm
Judy Sobanski
Thanks for the tips for finding and researching NF ideas!
January 26, 2017 at 8:31 pm
Linda Staszak
So interesting–I might have to try my hand at non-fiction. Can’t wait to read ‘Plants Can’t Sit Still’. Thanks.
January 26, 2017 at 8:33 pm
Kathy j brown
I just added an idea about your topic of disscussion. Thanks for sharing!
January 26, 2017 at 8:37 pm
danielle hammelef
I love to write nonfiction! The research is my favorite part. I can’t wait to read your books.
January 26, 2017 at 8:40 pm
Hélène Sabourin
Thanks for reminding us about the nonfiction side
January 26, 2017 at 8:57 pm
Natalie Lynn Tanner
REBECCA: THANK YOU for the reminder that the best inspiration is in the world all around us, every day! And for the insight into finding ways to tell non-fiction stories in inventive ways!
January 26, 2017 at 8:58 pm
lbouck09
Great ideas! I never really thought about non-fiction until now. Thanks for sharing! 🙂
January 26, 2017 at 9:03 pm
anitajjones
Thanks Rebecca…There’s a lot to think about! I plan on using your suggestions!….and I love my plants too…(any suggestions on getting rid of gnats on my houseplants?)…
January 26, 2017 at 9:07 pm
8catpaws
Love the title PLANTS CAN’T SIT STILL – antsy plants! Great post on finding a hook for your story.
January 26, 2017 at 9:25 pm
Annie Cronin Romano
Great advice for NF! Thanks for sharing your tips and inspiration!
January 26, 2017 at 9:30 pm
gayleckrause
Ah! The Circadian rhythm! I too wrote a picture book on plants moving, dancing, in fact. Very interesting concept. Thanks for sharing! 🙂
January 26, 2017 at 9:39 pm
Viviane LB
Thanks for a great post! I’m looking forward to reading Plants Can’t Sit Still…
January 26, 2017 at 9:46 pm
ammwrite3
“Great ideas lurk in the gaps” –great advice. Thanks, Rebecca!
January 26, 2017 at 9:46 pm
Debra Katz
Great ideas for tips. I will occasionally check some nonfiction children’s magazines to see what themes are cropping up in their submissions requests.
January 26, 2017 at 9:59 pm
judyrubin13
Thank you, Rebecca, for sharing your insights.
January 26, 2017 at 9:59 pm
Susan Schade
Great tips and advice for NF! Thank you!
January 26, 2017 at 10:04 pm
Leigh DeFreitas
Thanks for your tips. I work in an independent book store, and I agree that there are SO many outstanding nonfiction pictiure books available to young readers in today’s times. You are never too old to learn!! Leigh
January 26, 2017 at 10:07 pm
Cinzia
Thanks for your insights!
January 26, 2017 at 10:22 pm
Peter
Being a nature kindergarten teacher., I get ideas all the time. Now, to actually start acting on those ideas. 🙂
January 26, 2017 at 10:26 pm
Marty Bellis
Your titles immediately intrigued me! Plan to read your books. And intend to give more consideration to NF topics. Thanks for the inspiration!
January 26, 2017 at 10:35 pm
carolmunrojww
I read tons of picture books and keep a list, marking my favorites with an asterisk. Last week I realized how many of my favorites are nonfiction, and I’ve been considering trying to write one. This post is very timely. Thanks, Rebecca.
January 26, 2017 at 10:39 pm
Natasha
With the help of your post, I might be able to complete Storystorm with some NF book ideas. I will pay attention to the gaps!
January 26, 2017 at 10:39 pm
susanbruck
Thanks for sharing your thoughts about non-fiction. I am amazed by the creativity and variety in children’s non-fiction. It used to be pretty boring, but not any more!
January 26, 2017 at 10:47 pm
Cassie Bentley
I loved Plants Can’t Sit Still. I know some of my gaps, but haven’t figured out which one to start with. Thanks for the reminder.
January 26, 2017 at 10:54 pm
tanyakonerman
I’m looking forward to reading these titles! And thanks for the great tips as well!
January 26, 2017 at 11:08 pm
viviankirkfield
Thank you so much, Rebecca…I love writing nonfiction…and i love your advice to watch for stories that keep popping up but noone has written a picture book about.
Congratulations are your wonderful books!!!
January 26, 2017 at 11:34 pm
Nicole
Thanks for the post. I am a science teacher and I can’t wait to read plants can’t sit still! I’m always looking for fun picture books that cover scientific concepts.
January 26, 2017 at 11:37 pm
Carrie Charley Brown
Thanks so much for sharing, Rebecca! I would love to write more nonfiction someday. I can’t wait to read your book!
January 26, 2017 at 11:40 pm
Jill Giesbrecht
Yes, non-fiction from a unique perspective is such fun.
January 26, 2017 at 11:40 pm
Emily Lavoo Johnsen
Thank you Rebecca–truly I love this post. I’m dying to know which “beloved struggling species” you’re writing about. Just the kind of topic that is near and dear to my heart!
January 26, 2017 at 11:54 pm
Peggy Janousky
Thank you for sharing this. I have always loved nonfiction, but have some terrible fear of writing it. I think it is because I am afraid of putting out a boring manuscript. Your post has given me a push in the right direction. Thanks again.
January 26, 2017 at 11:55 pm
Juliann Caveny
Great advice! I love nonfiction. I especially loved those great compilation Q/A books of the 70s/80s such as Isaac Asimov’s Please Explain. Kids need answers! 🙂
January 27, 2017 at 12:00 am
K.A.Steed
“Keeping my eyes open”
January 27, 2017 at 12:01 am
Leah Perlongo
Great ideas. Thank you.
January 27, 2017 at 12:04 am
Sarita Rich
Thank you for your wonderful ideas!
January 27, 2017 at 12:04 am
Nancy Armo
We need non-fiction books now more than ever to help kids understand their world and to fight against fake news that they may hear on important subjects like global warming.
January 27, 2017 at 12:12 am
writersideup
This is wonderful, Rebecca, and who would’ve thought about the Birds vs. Blades issue?! There are so, so, so, so, sooooo many interesting things to read and write about in this world, and from what I hear—-lots of kids are reading nonfiction 😀
January 27, 2017 at 12:13 am
Diane Kress Hower
Thank you Rebecca! I enjoy NF as much as F and I would say 1/2 of my ideas are NF. Looking forward to reading your books!
January 27, 2017 at 12:15 am
stuartca
The devil is in the detail and in the detail lurks the untouched. Great idea for getting started.
January 27, 2017 at 12:16 am
Matt Leitzen
Thank you for the post. Looking forward to checking out your work.
January 27, 2017 at 12:18 am
Alan Horne
When oh when will the slaughter of seabirds end?
January 27, 2017 at 12:20 am
katharinederrick
I have quite a few nonfiction ideas up my sleeve already but this is a great way of getting a few more. Thanks 🙂
January 27, 2017 at 12:24 am
ingridboydston
I’ve noticed many more of my StoryStorm ideas this year are non-fiction. I wonder if its in reaction to the increased emphasis and therefore availability of nf since common core? Thanks for the food for thought!
January 27, 2017 at 12:34 am
Lynn Alpert
I’ll always be on the lookout for ideas.
January 27, 2017 at 12:38 am
shanah salter
I always tend to write fiction with a non-fiction component. Maybe it’s time to head towards true NF. Great post, thank you!
January 27, 2017 at 12:38 am
Christine Irvin
Strangely, most of my story ideas have been nonfiction although I usually prefer to write fiction for children. Hmmmmm….
January 27, 2017 at 12:45 am
Marge Gower
A combination of non fiction and fiction is a dream story. I love experimenting. Love this article.
January 27, 2017 at 1:05 am
Sandy
I really like the title of your plant book. It’s very intriguing! I’d love to read it to my class.
January 27, 2017 at 1:25 am
Aimee Haburjak
Great pointers on NF:) thank you
January 27, 2017 at 2:01 am
Angela Turner
I recently read Plants Can’t Sit Still and loved it. Teaching science my students did time lapse video of their plant experiments and they were amazed at how much the plants moved around. Thank you for great advice on writing nonfiction.
January 27, 2017 at 2:38 am
Myrna Foster
Thanks for sharing your ideas! I love reading non-fiction picture books. You can learn so much in such a short amount of time.
January 27, 2017 at 2:45 am
Maria Marshall
Thanks you for giving me great ideas for finding NF nuggets to write about. I am excited to get to the library.
January 27, 2017 at 3:08 am
Keila Dawson
Nonfiction books for kids are much more interesting these days. I enjoy reading them even if I’m not researching or using as a mentor text!
January 27, 2017 at 3:26 am
Nori Underhill
Thanks for the prompt. I hadn’t really thought of non-fiction yet this month, but ended up writing a pb text that, even if it doesn’t end up being publishable, certainly made me feel better just to write: a text about climate change. (As always, more details on my blog.)
January 27, 2017 at 5:58 am
sabrinawrites1
Thank you for this, I think Non-fiction has to have a say in books of fiction…It’s that thing which connects us to that starry starry world, isn’t it?
January 27, 2017 at 7:56 am
Linda Hofke
one of my nonfiction PB ideas came from a tiny newspaper article. Nonfiction ideas are all around. We just need to keep our eyes and ears open.
January 27, 2017 at 8:48 am
Joyce Allan
Thanks for the advice about nonfiction ideas. The fiction ones always come more quickly for me.
January 27, 2017 at 9:20 am
Ryan Roberts
I love the “pay attention to the gaps”. I’ve heard about trying to incorporate what you know and your own unique voice. I’d never heard it put in quite that way before, though, and it somehow made more sense. Lovely!
Also, I’d love to tackle nonfiction, especially science, someday. Seems like a natural progression with my current profession (and true love of science), but having too much fun with the fiction at the moment. 🙂 Thanks!
January 27, 2017 at 9:38 am
Louann Brown
Love your take on plants! Thanks for the reminder about non-fiction topics.
January 27, 2017 at 9:39 am
mgkingwrites
My favorite kind of stories are those true-life stories that feel just a bit unbelievable. Love the topics of your books!
January 27, 2017 at 9:44 am
Jim Chaize
Who know if one of these days I will make the leap from writing fiction to non-fiction. So, I will be saving this advice-filled post and be ready. Thanks, Rebecca.
January 27, 2017 at 9:49 am
JoAnn DiVerdi
Your non-fiction post has really got me thinking as I’m sure it has many others following StoryStorm. Thank you, Rebecca.
January 27, 2017 at 10:04 am
meszter24
A very interesting post, thank you!
January 27, 2017 at 10:08 am
Leslie Santamaria
Your passion for science shines through. Good advice for us all to write about what we love. Thanks, Rebecca!
January 27, 2017 at 10:33 am
Urania Smith
Great ideas for inspiration. Thanks!
January 27, 2017 at 10:59 am
Anita Banks
Thank you for your post.
January 27, 2017 at 11:25 am
CindyC
Thanks for sharing your expertise, Rebecca!!
January 27, 2017 at 11:27 am
Erin Nowak
I really love your message to embrace what we are experts in or what our passions outside of writing and illustrating are. Thank you!
January 27, 2017 at 11:35 am
cantsing1
I was so excited to see an entry from you – especially after reading a lovely review of your book on plants.
https://lisaconnors.wordpress.com
Maybe I will get to that story about my grandfather . . . thnx.
January 27, 2017 at 11:35 am
rosiepova
Writing non-fiction is still a mystery to me 🙂 Thank you for the tips–those are good places to start!
January 27, 2017 at 11:57 am
christinerodenbour
Thanks for the reminder that seeing the world differently can be a good thing, and we should use that unique voice to build our stories.
January 27, 2017 at 12:09 pm
Juli Jones
I’ve never tackled non-fiction in book length, but after reading your blog, I’m inspired to try. Thank you!
January 27, 2017 at 12:25 pm
jeanjames926
“Great ideas lurk in the gaps.” What a great line. Your post was so inspiring for me today. I love NF; I love the idea of bringing it a little pizazz!
January 27, 2017 at 12:33 pm
peardigger
So happy to see so much great nonfiction being published at a time when it is crucially important! Thanks for your entry.
January 27, 2017 at 12:41 pm
Janet Smart
I love non fiction picture books. Thanks for the advice. Plants Can’t Sit Still sounds like a great one. I love the cover.
January 27, 2017 at 1:22 pm
Lori Alexander
Thanks for the insight, Rebecca! You have written some fascinating non-fiction 🙂
January 27, 2017 at 1:38 pm
Prairie Garden Girl
Rebecca, I love your book PLANTS CAN’T SIT STILL and look forward to reading BIRDS VS BLADES? I enjoy writing in the genre of nonfiction. Thank you for sharing your thoughts.
~Suzy Leopold
January 27, 2017 at 1:57 pm
Mary Worley
Wonderful advice to get started on nonfiction topics. I especially like the advice to mind the gaps. Thanks!
January 27, 2017 at 2:10 pm
Kassy Keppol
Thank you for sharing
January 27, 2017 at 3:14 pm
Juliana Lee
I’ve noticed a dramatic change in children’s non-fiction in the last few years. I only wish I had been able to read books like these growing up!
January 27, 2017 at 3:32 pm
Jeanette Koscheski
Thank you for sharing about nonfiction writing.
January 27, 2017 at 3:34 pm
laurensoloy
I love the idea of Plants Can’t Sit Still! The World is truly full of interesting things!
January 27, 2017 at 3:35 pm
Jennifer Phillips
Helpful suggestions on how to stay tuned in for story ideas; I’m a big fan of non-fiction ideas as well. Thanks!
January 27, 2017 at 3:38 pm
Tracey Brown
I look forward to reading PLANTS CAN’T SIT STILL. Thanks for your advice on finding non-fiction ideas. I find myself gravitating to more non-fiction PBs now as they are written in such an engaging way
January 27, 2017 at 3:47 pm
kdveiten
Thanks for some great ideas!
January 27, 2017 at 3:50 pm
Megan Whitaker
Love non-fiction! I write PBs but have several ideas on my list for non-fiction.
Thanks for the post!
January 27, 2017 at 4:04 pm
justcomposeyourself
Rebecca,
I’ve always wanted to write a NF pb, so thank you so much for educating and inspiring!
January 27, 2017 at 4:15 pm
Penny Parker Klostermann
Thanks for the wonderful tips! I haven’t tackled nonfiction, but haven’t written down a few ideas that I think I would like to writing about.
January 27, 2017 at 4:59 pm
Lu Fiskin Ross
Thank you so much for these ideas! I am gathering nonfiction posibilities and could always use some tips.
January 27, 2017 at 5:14 pm
Anne Appert
I haven’t ever tried nonfiction because I didn’t think I would be very good at it. However, your tips for brainstorming ideas make a lot of sense! Thank you for your post.
January 27, 2017 at 5:37 pm
Joanne Sher
This is GREAT advice – can’t wait to see the NF ideas that come out of my head??
January 27, 2017 at 5:59 pm
kjerstenhayes
I love Plants Can’t Sit Still! And thanks for these tips.
January 27, 2017 at 6:09 pm
Alexandra MacVean Illustrations
Fabulous post. I’ve never given too much thought about my past, history, where I grew up, etc. Thanks!
January 27, 2017 at 6:11 pm
Kaye Baillie
Kind of look for gaps, holes, and see what’s down there. Love your unique story ideas, Rebecca.
January 27, 2017 at 6:29 pm
Darcee Freier
NF is sounding more interesting all the time. Thanks!
January 27, 2017 at 7:22 pm
Carolyn Kraft
Love this advice for nonfiction, especially looking for great ideas in the gaps. To the gaps I go!
January 27, 2017 at 7:57 pm
mginsberg10
Thanks for those important ideas, Rebecca!
January 27, 2017 at 8:01 pm
April Welch
Wow, you make nonfiction sound interesting.
January 27, 2017 at 8:04 pm
Susanne
Kids love nonfiction. Great tips!
January 27, 2017 at 8:05 pm
Andrea Mack
I’m always intrigued by nonfiction but finding accurate sources is my worry.
January 27, 2017 at 8:54 pm
Elizabeth Brown
Helpful advice! Thank you!
January 27, 2017 at 9:40 pm
Sara Gentry
I think nonfiction books produced today are so interesting and engaging. My 6-year-old reads a lot more nonfiction than I ever did at her age, and I credit that to the creativity of authors such as yourself, so thank you!
January 27, 2017 at 11:02 pm
Marie Manley Tucker
I can’t remember if I posted for this one!:)
January 27, 2017 at 11:50 pm
Heather Pierce Stigall
Great advice — thank you!
January 28, 2017 at 12:22 am
sunwalker2013
Four brilliant and easy to follow ways to get newideas. Thanks, Rebecca!
January 28, 2017 at 12:22 am
sunwalker2013
Four brilliant and easy to follow ways to get new ideas. Thanks, Rebecca!
January 28, 2017 at 12:48 am
Zoraida Rivera Morales
Great tips for nonfiction. Very precise! A nonfiction writer, after all!
January 28, 2017 at 1:56 am
Christine Pinto
Thanks, Rebecca for telling me to notice my unique perspective on things. Also my mind is reeling just thinking about “De-extinction” – what a great word!
January 28, 2017 at 5:43 am
Sharon Giltrow
Thanks Rebecca I really need to read more non-fiction PB. Today’s NF authors are really writing some great books.
January 28, 2017 at 10:24 am
Donna Rossman
Many thanks, Rebecca! What great advice! I have a few NF projects I’m working on and your post gave me a new way to look at them! 🙂
January 28, 2017 at 10:48 am
Lauri Meyers
This was a refreshing post in the idea of considering your (my) unique perspective. Sparked a few ideas!
January 28, 2017 at 11:28 am
Priya
Wonderful tips, especially to pay attention to the gaps and where you differ in POV. Do you have to be a scientist to write about science for children?
January 28, 2017 at 11:57 am
Kristen Schroeder (@KLSchroed)
It’s been great to see NF picture books taking off. Someday maybe I’ll have the patience to write and research one properly. Thank you!
January 28, 2017 at 12:14 pm
Joanna Sabal
Inspirational, thank you!
January 28, 2017 at 1:20 pm
Karen Dean
How fascinating! I never thought to write nonfiction. It makes sense that I could have something to say because my perspective on a topic would be different from someone else, coming at it from a writer’s or artist’s point of view. Thank you for sharing!
January 28, 2017 at 1:51 pm
Andrew Lefebvre
Thanks for sharing.
January 28, 2017 at 3:03 pm
Sheri Dillard
Thanks for the tips, Rebecca!
January 28, 2017 at 3:46 pm
@luvthatword / Angela Dale
Love it: Mind (or mine?) the gaps!
January 28, 2017 at 4:26 pm
Kristin Wauson
I love the idea of writing nonfiction. Your tip about focusing on you interests and unique perspective is very helpful. Thanks for this post.
January 28, 2017 at 5:04 pm
Candy
Love it! My plants can’t sit still either.
January 28, 2017 at 5:05 pm
Candy
Mine are western PA plants!!
January 28, 2017 at 5:09 pm
Stephan Stuecklin
So, along with the GAPS diet, we now have GAPS ideation – love it!
January 28, 2017 at 6:00 pm
Judy Y
Great idea to post about nonfiction, Tara. And Rebecca, your enthusiasm is infectious. I just did a quick scan of my own abiding NF passions and added eight new ideas to this year’s Storystorm stash. Now, there’s inspiration! Thank you!
January 28, 2017 at 6:23 pm
authorstephanievanhorn
Yay! This was really solid advice. I am working on a non-fiction book and it is going on years now, but when baked it will be great!
January 28, 2017 at 6:50 pm
lydialukidis
Great tips. Especially the part about reading more….
January 28, 2017 at 7:55 pm
Erika Schnatz
Good tips! I interned with a children’s book author who focused primarily on non-fiction, and she has a similar research/information gathering process (some of which involved me finding documents about Venetian royalty in the 1600s).
January 28, 2017 at 9:21 pm
Nadine
I never thought of writing nonfiction for children. You just inspired an idea. Thank you!!!
January 28, 2017 at 10:35 pm
Noris
I loved this title “PLANTS CAN’T SIT STILL” ❤
January 29, 2017 at 1:18 am
DaNeil Olson
As a teacher-librarian I can attest to my students’ love of nonfiction. Fabulous post – thank you!
January 29, 2017 at 1:24 am
Rachelle
I am not particularly science-minded, so I find that really well-written picture books about science topics appeal to me just as much as they do to my children because the topic is on my level! Also a biographical picture book can be a good way to get a quick overview of someone’s life. I think there’s an important place for these types of books, and I’m so glad that you’ve addressed nonfiction in your post.
January 29, 2017 at 4:08 am
aidantalkin
Fantastic article… I was a non-fiction lover as a small child (about weird animals mostly), and the passion has never waned! Perhaps there is a non-fiction book in me!
January 29, 2017 at 6:48 am
Rebecca Sheraton
Love your tips for non-fiction!
January 29, 2017 at 8:47 am
carrie a. pearson
Thanks for the permission to mine our unique perspective for ideas — “look for gaps” is now sticky noted to my computer.
January 29, 2017 at 10:16 am
Fran Price
Thanks for the reminder to look into non-fiction picture book writing. I would love to win Plants can’t sit still.
January 29, 2017 at 10:25 am
MD Knabb
Great advice, Rebecca, and I love your titles. Kids won’t be able to resist. I’ll definitely look for gaps in the market.
January 29, 2017 at 12:32 pm
Anne Bielby
Interesting and thought provoking. Had me looking at some submission guidelines I received recently as a source of new ideas, searching my memories based on the kinds of articles they were looking for.
January 29, 2017 at 1:28 pm
Debbie Austin
I’m intrigued by creative non-fiction and now have a couple ideas that are off-shoots from a fiction idea. Thank you for this post!
January 29, 2017 at 1:59 pm
Doreen E. Lepore
Great advice – thanks!
January 29, 2017 at 2:40 pm
rjtraxel
Cool. Just ordered your book at the library. I can’t wait to read it.
January 29, 2017 at 3:26 pm
Megan
I tend to focus on fiction, but your post has me jazzed to read more children’s nonfiction, particularly science-themed books!
January 29, 2017 at 4:15 pm
Wendy
I’m a science person, but haven’t cracked the code for those books yet. Still trying!
January 29, 2017 at 6:57 pm
Virginia Rinkel
So anxious to read “Plants Can’t Sit Still.” Love nonn-fiction!
January 29, 2017 at 8:23 pm
bookthreader
I have not tried writing nonfiction yet, but, I did come up with some ideas this month that I think I’d like to write about. So, thanks for the suggestions!!!
January 29, 2017 at 8:59 pm
Nadine Gamble
Great inspiration.
January 29, 2017 at 9:17 pm
Aida Radu
Non-fiction books are a unique challenge; way to go!
January 29, 2017 at 9:22 pm
gingermeurer
Rebecca, thank you for sharing your tips. Your nonfiction stories sound interesting. It’s nice to hear about writers who don’t have their head in the clouds, especially when there’s so much in fact to fascinate with.
January 29, 2017 at 11:52 pm
DB Cote
I liked your statement, “Great ideas lurk in the gaps.” Thank you, Rebecca.
January 30, 2017 at 12:45 am
Tasha
I recently read Plants with my son on Epic–I loved it! Thank you for the information on non-fiction, it is something I hadn’t considered for myself before.
January 30, 2017 at 8:39 am
Kelsey
I haven’t thought up any NF ideas yet…I think I must, now! 🙂
January 30, 2017 at 9:26 am
Nicole Strangman
Glad to see NF wasn’t overlooked this month and excited to mine the potential gaps for ideas.
January 30, 2017 at 11:37 am
Paula Zeller
Rebecca, thank you for your excellent advice and your experiences that back it up. Very enlightening!
January 30, 2017 at 12:08 pm
Lorraine
I can’t wait to read your books. You piqued my interest. Thanks!
January 30, 2017 at 12:11 pm
Darshana
great advice. stories are everywhere. 🙂
January 30, 2017 at 12:24 pm
LaurenKerstein
Thank you! Your books sound fascinating and I love your thoughts about great ideas “lurking in the gaps.”
January 30, 2017 at 12:51 pm
Alexandra Hinrichs
I haven’t written a nonfiction book yet, but it’s my favorite source of story inspiration! Maybe time to connect the dots. Thank you for sharing your ideas.
January 30, 2017 at 1:24 pm
hdening
Great post! I’ll pay closer attention to the gaps. Thanks, Rebecca.
January 30, 2017 at 1:55 pm
Kelly Parker
I’ve never tried to venture into the realm of nonfiction. Maybe it’s worth giving it a go for once and see what happens!
January 30, 2017 at 1:58 pm
Mavis Penney
How to get non-fiction ideas and put them into picture books. Thanks, Rebecca, for these suggestions! 🙂
January 30, 2017 at 3:03 pm
C. C. Gevry
Thanks for this. I love non-fiction.
January 30, 2017 at 3:04 pm
Kara Cargill
Read plenty of nonfiction. That’s a good idea!
January 30, 2017 at 3:39 pm
Rebekah Lowell
I love that an post about nonfiction was included because most of my ideas are nonfiction. I love nature and that’s what has always amazed me and captured my attention! Your books sound lovely!
January 30, 2017 at 4:54 pm
Hope Lim
Thank you for the wonderful tips!
January 30, 2017 at 5:00 pm
Laurie Swindler
I love how you found inspiration by paying attention to the world around you and listening when you talk with interesting people.
January 30, 2017 at 6:15 pm
Cindy E. Owens
Kudos to you for paying attention to the world around you. A lot of people live their lives, day by day, like a robot. Their routine is mechanical. I look forward to reading your books – especially BIRDS VS BLADES?
January 30, 2017 at 8:56 pm
lahewson
Thank you for terrific tips. Love the title, ‘Plants Can’t Keep Still’; you have me intrigued about this story.
January 30, 2017 at 9:17 pm
Barbara Cairns
Love both your book titles! A great post. Thanks for sharing.
January 30, 2017 at 9:22 pm
amomnextdoor
I’ll look for Plants Can’t Sit Still at the library. You hooked me at the title!
January 30, 2017 at 10:52 pm
April Scott
I hadn’t really considered NF until reading your article. Wonderful take on how to approach it!
January 30, 2017 at 11:57 pm
wendymyersart
I’ve had a desire to write nonfiction for years now. I have several manuscripts on the way way back burner. These suggestions to help generate and follow ideas are inspiring. Thank you.
January 31, 2017 at 12:56 am
sandiejaarsma
We are a family who loves nonfiction. Thank you for your encouraging words.
January 31, 2017 at 3:29 am
Bethanny Parker
I’m a plant-lover too. I’d love to read Plants Can’t Sit Still.
January 31, 2017 at 5:07 am
Melanie
Wonderful post! Lots of great information for nonfiction how-to.
January 31, 2017 at 1:25 pm
colleenrkosinski
Wonderful post!
January 31, 2017 at 1:51 pm
Carrie Chan
I love non-fiction books and I am forever having NF moments. It comes from the teacher in me. I am thankful for this post that stirred those ideas up again. Thanks.
January 31, 2017 at 4:17 pm
Helen Latos
As a fellow scientist, I love that your are writing these wonderful NF science books.
January 31, 2017 at 5:50 pm
lorisherritt
Now I can’t sit still…I recently started writing non-fiction and truly enjoyed its various genres! I love looking at things from the perspective of a child and crafting facts in a way that is interesting to them! Love the research too, though sometimes it counts as procrastination….
January 31, 2017 at 6:49 pm
Midge Ballou Smith
Wonderful advice–Thank you!
January 31, 2017 at 11:38 pm
Joanne Roberts
I am such a fan! Plants Can’t Sit Still was one of my top 3 favorite books from last year. I read it in October and have been recommending it to everyone I can. Your passion really shines through the text. So well crafted from beginning to end. Thanks for sharing your writing tips.
February 1, 2017 at 2:09 am
Jenna Woloshyn
This is great advice for fiction and nonfiction
February 1, 2017 at 2:36 am
Bethany Mandich
Great advice to write about what I’m interested in and what I love, because I’ll be spending a lot of time with that subject.
February 1, 2017 at 3:54 am
Nancy Kotkin
Thanks for the very good advice. Both your books sound fascinating.
February 1, 2017 at 6:45 am
Reena Balding
I’m heading to the library to find some non fiction. Plants Can’t Sit Still is a great title.
February 1, 2017 at 1:11 pm
Joannie Duris
Thanks for your inspiring post, Rebecca. A great reminder to look at ways to use my nursing background and unique perspectives on the world.
February 1, 2017 at 9:55 pm
Patricia Toht
Thanks for giving us some nonfiction inspiration, Rebecca!
February 1, 2017 at 9:59 pm
Mary Crockett
The idea of taking some cool aspect of science or nature for a children’s book is very generative for me. Thanks!
February 2, 2017 at 12:08 am
Cindy Jolley
Thank you for the great tips to help find non-fiction ideas.
February 4, 2017 at 12:49 am
Susanne Whitehouse
I’m glad we are giving some love to non-fiction books, too! Very helpful post.
February 4, 2017 at 6:40 pm
kari
I love plants too. I like this idea of finding a gap and writing to fill it.
February 20, 2017 at 7:33 pm
Susan Cabael
It’s really such an exciting time to see how authors are approaching nonfiction.