June 13, 2018 9:00 am
Shutta Crum wrote one of my all-time favorite Storystorm posts a few years ago about crafting an irresistible picture book opening. Her “four W” technique grounds the reader in time and place with the character, leaving just enough detail unanswered so one must turn the page to discover why. WHY????
When I learned Shutta the word whisperer released a new book celebrating words, I just knew she’d have lots of wonderful words to say about it.
Shutta, you know I’m a “wordie”—that’s a new word in the Merriam-Webster Dictionary this year and it means “a word lover”. Words bring Mouseling great comfort and belonging in this story. Which words foster those same feelings in you?
You ask a great question that I had to ponder quite a while. I mean, there are so many wonderful words that can engender feelings of comfort and belonging, like family and chocolate. So I thought about what I’ve lost and miss the most. And that would be my parents. They both died in 2008. Anyway, I bear my father’s nickname as my legal first name, Shutta. But he never called me that. He gave me a nickname, Shud. What I wouldn’t give to hear that word in his voice again! And thinking about my mother, I think of food. Specifically, biscuits and gravy, a Southern breakfast staple. It’s real comfort food, and makes me think of home and all the wonderful smells of Mom’s cooking.
So circling back to your childhood, did words give you comfort then? Were you an avid reader and writer even as a little girl?
Was I an avid reader?—hah! I read everything I could get my hands on, especially as we did not have many books in our home. I remember Mom telling me to put my books down and go outside and play. My siblings were real outdoor lovers and I think she thought I was a bit unusual. I also remember being proud when I could finish a book in a day. Sometimes I’d hide them in my textbooks at school as I read. Words were comforting, and amazing! Whole worlds were opened to me. As an avid reader I was also an avid day-dreamer. I’d play out scenes in my head all the time. I still do. It’s made me a very visual thinker and, I believe, a better writer.
A funny story: if I found a book, I’d pick it up and start reading it. One time, when I was in high school I found a rather salacious book at a bus stop. I opened it up in geometry class when we had a few extra moments to read and my teacher just about had a stroke. He came bounding over to me and ripped The Story of O out of my hands in an apoplectic manner yelling, “Where did you get this?” I’d only read the first page, or so, but my, oh my! However, most of my reading material was adventure, mystery and science fiction.
Why is learning tough (but fun) new vocabulary words important to young readers?
Humans have been communicating since the time we could only point and grunt. There is an instinctive desire to communicate—even with our first breath we communicate—we cry when we’re birthed. It means: Hey it’s cold out here! What’s happening to me? Where am I? And, This doesn’t feel right. Communicating is like breathing; it is part of our basic nature. And miscommunication can be disastrous. Deadly, even. So finding the right word or the right way to say something is important. When we build our vocabularies we have more skill at pinpointing exactly what we mean.
This is always important to writers! But for people who love words it goes beyond meaning to the music created by the sound of words, and even the way words sound in our mouths. We use all our senses to communicate.
In MOUSELING’S WORDS, Mouseling feels the whirr of “fur” in his throat when he says it. He sees the two round vowels that look like mouse tummies in the middle of the word “float.” He tastes the word “milk.” He smells “perfume.” And he hears the loud crinkling and crackling of the word he balled up to throw at the cat. I really wanted young readers to know that when we communicate we use our whole bodies—not just vocabulary words. But it’s also handy to have a large vocabulary to choose from. It’s like having lots of pairs of snazzy socks to wear. You wouldn’t want to wear the same old white ones every day. That’s the fun of words!
Obviously, you’re a “wordie” too. Any special hints for writers about word choice?
Well, I’ve just had an article published at the RYS site about wielding the right words and using the right journals that goes into this question in detail. I can sum it up by saying that when I think about word choice I think of words like people. Words have personalities, and like any person there is always more than what meets the eye. Words have emotional baggage, a cultural upbringing, physical sensibilities and an historical demeanor. Considering all of these factors is critical when writing for young readers. I only have so many words to play with—very few in the case of my picture books. Those words have to be weighed, analyzed and found to slot perfectly into its place.
I should also mention that I keep special “word” journals. I do not just journal generally. I note words I find, or phrases I love, from my reading. I keep an onomatopoeia journal and other specific journals. These help me keep the focus on word choice. The full article with examples from great writers can be found by going to this link at my blog.
Thanks, Tara, this has been fun…keep those lovely words coming!
Shutta Crum is the author of thirteen picture books, three novels, and numerous poems and articles. Her THUNDER-BOOMER! was an American Library Association and a Smithsonian Magazine “Notable Book” of the year. MINE! was listed by New York Times as “one of the best board books of the year.” Many of her books have made the Bank Street Best Books lists and have been short-listed for state awards. Her newest picture book MOUSELING’S WORDS is garnering glowing reviews. PW says: “…a tribute to the way books can unite even the unlikeliest of friends.” Booklist says, “This earnest and encouraging title fits on the shelf of books for book-lovers…” And Kirkus Reviews sums it up as, “Encouraging, lovely words.” For more, visit Shutta.com.
Shutta is giving away a picture book critique (less than 1000 words)—what an awesome opportunity! Just leave a comment below mentioning you want the crit (in other words, use your words).
A random winner will be selected at the end of the month.
Good luck!
Posted by Tara Lazar
Categories: Picture Books
Tags: Mouseling's Words, Ryan O'Rourke, Shutta Crum, Word Choice
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I’m a wordie too! Love reading them and saying them. Thx for offering the critique!
By Jennifer Lane Wilson on June 13, 2018 at 9:06 am
You’re welcome!
By Shutta on June 14, 2018 at 9:43 pm
What a fun interview, Tara and Shutta! I’d love a critique 🙂
By kirsticall on June 13, 2018 at 9:06 am
Thanks!
By Shutta on June 14, 2018 at 9:43 pm
This sounds like such a cute book! I’d love a critique.
By sjohnston2010 on June 13, 2018 at 9:10 am
Keep your fingers crossed!
By Shutta on June 14, 2018 at 9:43 pm
I would love a critique from the ever so talented Shutta Crum! Thank you so much for this amazing interview and opportunity!
By Beth Wethje on June 13, 2018 at 9:10 am
Aww… you’re sweet!
By Shutta on June 14, 2018 at 9:44 pm
Oh wow. What a fabulous opportunity you’re passing along to one lucky writer. I would be over-the-moon excited & grateful if you chose me, Tara & Shutta! 😀
By Debbie Meyer on June 13, 2018 at 9:15 am
Aww… let’s hope you’re lucky!
By Shutta on June 14, 2018 at 9:45 pm
Wonderful blog post! I read her 4 W question post too. Thank you for the great advice. I’m off to scribble.
By Linda Mitchell on June 13, 2018 at 9:16 am
Keep on writing!
By Shutta on June 14, 2018 at 9:45 pm
Shutta is always so gracious with her time! What a great interview and opportunity. I would love to have her critique one of my stories!
By pathaap on June 13, 2018 at 9:23 am
Thank you for your kind words!
By Shutta on June 14, 2018 at 9:45 pm
Wow! As a word lover myself, I love this book and would love a critique! Thanks for the opportunity.
By Kathy Mazurowski on June 13, 2018 at 9:24 am
YAY! Keep your fingers crossed.
By Shutta on June 14, 2018 at 9:48 pm
A critique would be neat…(giving WIP the side-eye)
By Ashley Franklin on June 13, 2018 at 9:26 am
I’ve often given mine a “side-eye!”
By Shutta on June 14, 2018 at 9:48 pm
Hi Shutta! I love your idea of words having a personality, and being so much more than what meets the eye. I’ll be thinking of that when I sit down to revise in a few minutes. 🙂
By Joana Pastro on June 13, 2018 at 9:28 am
Hey, Joana, my friend. Hugs!
By Shutta on June 14, 2018 at 9:49 pm
I love the idea of a word journal. I have plenty of extras laying around! I’d love a critique, too. Thanks!
By Erik Ammon on June 13, 2018 at 9:32 am
Make use of those journals!
By Shutta on June 14, 2018 at 9:51 pm
Shutta is a gem in the realm of children’s books! I am always honored by her knowledge and generosity. Add in that dash of enthusiasm and her amazing fashion style, she can’t be beat! A critique of one of my manuscripts would be like a gift from the word gods ❤
By Monica Harris on June 13, 2018 at 9:35 am
Monica! You make me blush… hugs.
By Shutta on June 14, 2018 at 9:52 pm
Love that you view your interplay with words as a relationship.Thanks so much for sharing your POV, Shutta!
By Andria Rosenbaum on June 13, 2018 at 9:37 am
I think once you’re in love with words it’s a life-time love.
By Shutta on June 14, 2018 at 9:53 pm
Thank you for sharing your process. This book looks fun and full of heart. Not only am I a foodie and a wordie, but a big Shutta fan!
By danielle dufayet on June 13, 2018 at 9:40 am
Thanks!
By Shutta on June 14, 2018 at 9:53 pm
It sounds like a great book! Thanks for the critique offer. I’d love one!
By Kristen Donohue on June 13, 2018 at 9:41 am
Keep your fingers crossed!
By Shutta on June 14, 2018 at 9:54 pm
I agree wholeheartedly that words have personality & background. I also think of them as having different flavor profiles or intensities.
I would love to win that critique!
By Katie Engen on June 13, 2018 at 9:47 am
LOVE the idea of flavors of words.
By Shutta on June 14, 2018 at 9:55 pm
Thank you for the thought provoking journey with words. I was especially touched by the way you described hearing your parents use special words, in “their voice.” I never thought about word’s histories and personalities before. What a fun yet powerful way to think about word choice. I would love to win the critque. Thank you for the generous offer!
By Jessica on June 13, 2018 at 9:48 am
Thank you!
By Shutta on June 14, 2018 at 9:57 pm
What wordie wouldn’t love a critique from somebody who understands the importance of each word in a picture book? I’m crossing my fingers!
By Louise Aamodt on June 13, 2018 at 9:54 am
Hope for the best! And keep on writing.
By Shutta on June 14, 2018 at 9:58 pm
Thank you for the inspiring post and critique opportunity!
By Mia on June 13, 2018 at 9:56 am
You’re welcome!
By Shutta on June 14, 2018 at 9:59 pm
Thanks for a wonderful post – and the chance for a critique. What an opportunity!
By Cinzia on June 13, 2018 at 9:56 am
You’re welcome!
By Shutta on June 14, 2018 at 10:00 pm
Shutta you are so generous! Thank you for all you do to support your fellow writers – like this fun article about words and their unique personalities! And your scholarship to the NY conference and so much more. I would love to have you critique one of my PB mss!
By Jacquie Sewell on June 13, 2018 at 10:00 am
Aww…thank you. I DO believe we should help each other as much as we can. It only makes sense. We all want good books in the hands of kids. Hugs.
By Shutta on June 14, 2018 at 10:02 pm
Splendid!
Heartfelt!
Utterly charming!
Talented!
Thought-provoking!
Amazing!
By Rebecca Van Slyke on June 13, 2018 at 10:09 am
Aww…thank you!
By Shutta on June 14, 2018 at 10:03 pm
Thank you for sharing a bit about yourself and your process. It is always titillating to learn a new approach.
By Noel Csermak on June 13, 2018 at 10:10 am
You’re welcome.
By Shutta on June 14, 2018 at 10:04 pm
Oh the power of words! The way Mouse experiences them in your story is perfect…and it looks like they earn him a new friend. 🙂 A critique from you would be simply amazing!
By Lindsay Robinson on June 13, 2018 at 10:12 am
Thanks!
By Shutta on June 14, 2018 at 10:04 pm
I’m a wordie! I would love a critique!
By DM Paul on June 13, 2018 at 10:19 am
Keep your fingers crossed!
By Shutta on June 14, 2018 at 10:05 pm
I just read Mouseling’s Words a few days ago; it’s fantabulous! A critique from Shutta would be fantabulous too!
By Lauri Fortino on June 13, 2018 at 10:25 am
Thanks!
By Shutta on June 14, 2018 at 10:05 pm
Can’t wait to read this book! And thanks for the opportunity for a critique. So generous!
By rosecappelli on June 13, 2018 at 10:26 am
You’re welcome.
By Shutta on June 14, 2018 at 10:06 pm
Great article on the importance and value of words. Would love a critique!
By Dina Hodara-Bono on June 13, 2018 at 10:28 am
Thanks!
By Shutta on June 14, 2018 at 10:06 pm
Absolutely loved this post. Thank you and thank you for offering a critique.
By DaNeil Olson on June 13, 2018 at 10:30 am
You’re welcome!
By Shutta on June 14, 2018 at 10:07 pm
Love the story of your name as a nickname from your dad—sounds like real live folklore. I am very sorry to hear about the passing of your parents–I can hear the longing. My dad passed away, also a Southern man, and I so long to have talks with him again. You paint a very vivid epicure of the comfort food–biscuits and gravy–my my. Would LOVE a critique from Shutta.
By thewriterspath on June 13, 2018 at 10:31 am
You’re welcome!
By Shutta on June 14, 2018 at 10:07 pm
Thank you very much for this posting. I am delighted when a word pops up in a story that surprises me, or sits up so plump and proud, waiting to be noticed. I would very much LOVE a critique from you Shutta. All the best,
peg e.
By peg e. monley on June 13, 2018 at 10:33 am
Love your “plump and proud.” Another wordie, I see! Cool beans.
Keep your fingers crossed.
By Shutta on June 14, 2018 at 10:09 pm
Lovely, thoughtful post. Thank you for your generosity, Shutta.
By carrie a. pearson on June 13, 2018 at 10:47 am
You’re welcome!
By Shutta on June 14, 2018 at 10:09 pm
Another generous bit of advice and wisdom from Shutta. Love it!
By vancleave88 on June 13, 2018 at 10:53 am
Hey! Hope you’re doing well. Thanks!
By Shutta on June 14, 2018 at 10:10 pm
Thank you for the great post. I am a teacher and writer – I would love to win a critique! Pleasy cheesy, from Wisconsin.
By Susan Apps-Bodilly on June 13, 2018 at 11:03 am
Thanks. Keep your fingers crossed.
By Shutta on June 14, 2018 at 10:10 pm
Oh my word. No, your word. Wait, all savory words. My word journal starts today. Would love a critique! Off to meet Mouseling.
By Mary McClellan on June 13, 2018 at 11:04 am
Get that journal going!
By Shutta on June 14, 2018 at 10:16 pm
Love Shutta’s books an dI jus put hit sone on hold at the library. I’ma wordie, too.
By Kathy Halsey on June 13, 2018 at 11:05 am
Thanks!
By Shutta on June 14, 2018 at 10:17 pm
Argh, typing too fast. Excuse typos above. My fat fingers! I just put this book on hold.
By Kathy Halsey on June 13, 2018 at 11:06 am
I would love a critique.
By Doug Marshall on June 13, 2018 at 11:08 am
Keep your fingers crossed!
By Shutta on June 14, 2018 at 10:17 pm
Words always matter, maybe more than ever these days! Sigh…Thank you for your post, I look forward to reading Mouseling’s adventures, that looks great…And thank you for offering the critique, I would be interested in being part of that drawing please. Bonnie
By bonzerb on June 13, 2018 at 11:09 am
Glad to hear from another “wordie!” Enjoy MOUSELING’S WORDS.
By Shutta on June 14, 2018 at 10:18 pm
What a helpful post. I would love a critique.
By Beth Saxton on June 13, 2018 at 11:14 am
Thank you!
By Shutta on June 14, 2018 at 10:18 pm
What glorious prize and well worth a post. If I should win I would love to receive words that explain how to polish my story and make it quite fit. Fit for an agent, an editor, and more. I’d love to know if my story has strength to keep a young reader engaged, flipping the pages again and again.
By authoraileenstewart on June 13, 2018 at 11:14 am
Keep your fingers crossed!
By Shutta on June 14, 2018 at 10:19 pm
Dear Shutta – Thanks for your thoughtful and inspiring post today. You made me think of my grandmother’s soothing chicken soup and the aroma of baking chocolate cake floating through the air from her kitchen. Now I am feeling comforted and ready to begin another day.
By Mary Jane on June 13, 2018 at 11:17 am
You’re welcome!
By Shutta on June 14, 2018 at 10:20 pm
In Teenaged Words (compliments of my 14-year old niece), “Totes GR8 interview! Would luv a crit. TYVM! (LOL)
By Ashley Potts on June 13, 2018 at 11:26 am
Thx!
By Shutta on June 14, 2018 at 10:20 pm
Being fascinated by how certain words sound is part of being a writer. I love certain words also. Charming post.
By June Sengpiehl on June 13, 2018 at 11:47 am
Glad to hear it! Thanks.
By Shutta on June 14, 2018 at 10:21 pm
Without being a wordy wordie-Thank you for the post and critique offer, Tara and Shutta! You are both wordsmiths to admire.
By Wendy on June 13, 2018 at 11:59 am
Thanks!
By Shutta on June 14, 2018 at 10:22 pm
Wordies unite! This sounds like such a cute and warm book. And the critique opportunity—pick me! Pick me!
By candicemarleyconner on June 13, 2018 at 12:14 pm
Thanks! Keep your fingers crossed.
By Shutta on June 14, 2018 at 10:24 pm
This mouse is for me! I love words, too! [some fun ones: ullage, borborygmus, defenestrate, philtrum]
By kathydoherty1 on June 13, 2018 at 12:18 pm
Good ones!
By Shutta on June 14, 2018 at 10:24 pm
I can’t wait to read Mousling’s words. Thanks for your post.
By Dee English on June 13, 2018 at 12:26 pm
You’re welcome.
By Shutta on June 14, 2018 at 10:25 pm
Wonderful post. I love words. As my grand daughter said on her last visit–I like the way that word feels in my mouth. You both remind me of the joys of my own childhood. And, I’d love a critique. Carole Calladine
By .CAROLE CALLADINE on June 13, 2018 at 12:31 pm
Don’t ya just love it! Thanks.
By Shutta on June 14, 2018 at 10:26 pm
“Words have personalities”… what a great way to think about the importance of word choice. Thanks for this terrific article, Shutta!
By Buffy Silverman on June 13, 2018 at 12:36 pm
Hey, Buffy! Thanks.
By Shutta on June 14, 2018 at 10:27 pm
As a fellow wordie, I’m looking forward to checking out this book! Thanks for the thoughtful interview, and for the critique opportunity. I would love to be entered.
By Lindsay Maeve on June 13, 2018 at 12:37 pm
You’re welcome!
By Shutta on June 14, 2018 at 10:27 pm
Avid years before I knew THAT particular word, still bury my nose days on end. Thus, a critique would be inevitably (and enviably) useful. Thanks for offering it to one of us!
By sunwalker2013 on June 13, 2018 at 12:38 pm
You’re welcome.
By Shutta on June 14, 2018 at 10:28 pm
Words are powerful…to hurt or hinder, elevate or celebrate, to paint pictures and arouse our senses. Thank you for this great book that can inspire a love and experience of words in readers young and old.
By lorisherritt on June 13, 2018 at 12:41 pm
You’re welcome.
By Shutta on June 14, 2018 at 10:29 pm
Thanks Tara and Shutta, for an inspiring post. I love pondering to power of words.
By Mary Warth on June 13, 2018 at 12:53 pm
You’re welcome.
By Shutta on June 14, 2018 at 10:32 pm
Thanks for the wonderfully helpful post. I love the idea of comparing words to people. Words do have personalities!
By Karin Larson on June 13, 2018 at 12:58 pm
You’re welcome.
By Shutta on June 14, 2018 at 10:33 pm
Tara and Shutta, this interview is helpful in considering word choice and its importance. I’d love a pb critique! Thanks.
By tiffanydickinson on June 13, 2018 at 1:05 pm
Thanks! Keep your fingers crossed.
By Shutta on June 14, 2018 at 10:34 pm
Such snazzy words, Shutta! I’d love the chance for you to snazz up my words, so I’m throwing my white socks into the critique ring. 😀
By C.L. Murphy on June 13, 2018 at 1:08 pm
Good for you! Keep your fingers crossed.
By Shutta on June 14, 2018 at 10:35 pm
Thank you for sharing
By Kassy Keppol on June 13, 2018 at 1:13 pm
Thank you!
By Shutta on June 14, 2018 at 10:35 pm
Love meeting other wordies and I’d always love a new pair of eyes on a WIP 🙂 Thanks for the great interview and giveaway!
By StephMWard on June 13, 2018 at 1:23 pm
You’re welcome.
By Shutta on June 14, 2018 at 10:36 pm
Thanks for emphasizing the way the sounds of words and the way one hears them are a big part of the reading and writing experience. Thanks also for this opportunity. I’d love a critique.
By Lori Dubbin on June 13, 2018 at 2:08 pm
You’re welcome!
By Shutta on June 14, 2018 at 10:37 pm
Thank you so much for the reminder that “Words have personalities”. This is a great help in thinking of word choice. Thanks!
By Christine Pinto on June 13, 2018 at 2:10 pm
You’re welcome!
By Shutta on June 14, 2018 at 10:37 pm
Wonderful advice, Shutta! I love the idea of a word journal. I am eager to read Mouseling’s Words. And yes, a critique from you would be awesome!
By Sue Thoms on June 13, 2018 at 2:18 pm
Hey, Sue! You’re welcome. Keep your fingers crossed. Hugs.
By Shutta on June 14, 2018 at 10:38 pm
Favorite childhood book this week and the children love the library and, of course so do I. I’ll bet your book would be first on their list. 😊
I’d love to be chosen for your critique giveaway.
By authorlaurablog on June 13, 2018 at 2:53 pm
Keep fingers crossed!
By Shutta on June 15, 2018 at 7:39 pm
Vive the music and connotation of words!!! And bravo for finding a home for a PB that looks longer than 500 wds. (?)
By Poupette Smith on June 13, 2018 at 3:39 pm
Yeah. it is longer than 500. But Clarion ends to be a more literary house, so they sometimes like longer.
By Shutta on June 15, 2018 at 7:40 pm
Thanks for confirmation; I’ll bear this in mind when submitting my current PB ms., and will look for Mouseling’s….
By Poupette Smith on June 16, 2018 at 7:35 pm
Shutta always has the right words to say to help you write better
By Lisa Rose on June 13, 2018 at 4:19 pm
Thanks, Lisa! Hugs.
By Shutta on June 15, 2018 at 7:41 pm
Thank you for such a lovely interview, Tara and Shutta! As a fellow wordie, everything you mentioned resonated–deep, deep down within. So inspirational and helpful! Thank you for sharing your wisdom and passion for words! (And if it happens that my little hatchling of a PB story could be gently handed over to Shutta for a much-needed critique, that would be icing on the cake!)
Please excuse the gratuitous use of exclamation points. I seriously couldn’t help myself.
By Melissa Bailey on June 13, 2018 at 4:21 pm
Um . . . only sometimes our manuscripts need some rough handling. But if you win, I guarantee it will still be alive when handed back . . . hugs.
By Shutta on June 15, 2018 at 7:43 pm
I Shutta be a contendah for that critique! Yes, crit please.
By Lucky Jo Boscarino on June 13, 2018 at 4:24 pm
Hah!
By Shutta on June 15, 2018 at 7:43 pm
Thanks Shutta for helping me to think about a words’ personalities. And I would LOVE a critique.
By Kaye Baillie on June 13, 2018 at 4:25 pm
Here’s keeping fingers crossed.
By Shutta on June 15, 2018 at 7:44 pm
Going back to my roots, I’m pointing and grunting – pointing at myself and grunting out my desire to win win win.
By Genevieve Petrillo on June 13, 2018 at 4:29 pm
Grr.. nt . . .urg . . .weeeee! (Translation: Me, you, hope so.)
By Shutta on June 15, 2018 at 7:45 pm
Such an adorable story! And I would be honored to have a critique!
By Lori Anne Butler on June 13, 2018 at 4:40 pm
Thank you!
By Shutta on June 15, 2018 at 7:45 pm
A free critique from Shutta?! YAAAASS!
By Rita Russell on June 13, 2018 at 4:47 pm
Here’s hoping!
By Shutta on June 15, 2018 at 7:46 pm
How could I go wrong with a critique from an accomplished wordie? Count me in!
By Stephan Stuecklin on June 13, 2018 at 5:17 pm
Thanks. Let’s hope you’re lucky!
By Shutta on June 15, 2018 at 7:47 pm
I’d love a critique from THE Shutta!
By Joseph Miller on June 13, 2018 at 5:33 pm
Hah! Thanks. Hugs.
By Shutta on June 15, 2018 at 7:46 pm
I was the only word lover in my family when I was growing up, but now I have a daughter who loves words as much as I do. A critique from Shutta would be fabulous!
By volunteerpianist on June 13, 2018 at 5:35 pm
The addiction to words begins early. Glad to find a wordie sibling!
By Shutta on June 15, 2018 at 7:47 pm
Great post. I need to pick up the book for my son and I to read. And a critique would be an added bonus. 😉
By Gregory E Bray on June 13, 2018 at 5:49 pm
Hope you enjoy it!
By Shutta on June 15, 2018 at 7:48 pm
I also read voraciously as a child, but then my parents took us to the library every Saturday to pick out books. I would love a critique from you, Shutta!
By betlw on June 13, 2018 at 5:58 pm
Let’s hope you’re lucky!
By Shutta on June 15, 2018 at 7:48 pm
Enjoyed your post as I believe the right word or words does make a world of difference. Thanks for this opportunity!
By Jenifer on June 13, 2018 at 6:24 pm
Thank you very much! Hope you’re the lucky one.
By Shutta on June 15, 2018 at 7:49 pm
Great post! I would love a critique.
By anniebailey7 on June 13, 2018 at 6:39 pm
Thanks!
By Shutta on June 15, 2018 at 7:49 pm
Thank you so much for this lovely post. I would love a critique from Shutta.
By Beverly Snedecor on June 13, 2018 at 7:53 pm
Thank you for reading it!
By Shutta on June 15, 2018 at 7:49 pm
Our mantra in first grade is “read, read, read and write, write, write”! Trying to make “word lovers” from the start!! I would be thrilled to be “critiqued” by Shutta! (nervous too!!!) 🙂
By seschipper on June 13, 2018 at 9:40 pm
No reason to be nervous. Stories aren’t going anywhere locked in drawers or confined to computer files. You need to breathe life into them!
By Shutta on June 15, 2018 at 7:50 pm
thanks!! When I think of a “word” and do not have my journal with me, I always have sticky notes and write words on them. (transferred later to the journal) 🙂
By seschipper on July 4, 2018 at 10:25 pm
Thanks Shutta for sharing. I would love a critique.
By awritersdream41 on June 13, 2018 at 10:20 pm
Thank you for enjoying and commenting!
By Shutta on June 15, 2018 at 7:50 pm
I really liked everything about this interview – your tuning in on words using all senses, words having personalities, and finding words that are just the perfect fit. It’s so fun being a fellow wordie. Would love a critique! Thank you Shutta and Tara!
By Vicki Wilke on June 13, 2018 at 11:28 pm
Wordies Unite!!!! Hugs.
By Shutta on June 15, 2018 at 7:51 pm
Great post! Love your work! Go wordies!!!
By Krissy on June 14, 2018 at 3:23 am
Thanks! And here’s to you, a fellow wordie.
By Shutta on June 15, 2018 at 7:51 pm
Thank you Shutta for this wonderful post and the opportunity for a critique. I just started a dream journal, but would never have thought of a word journal. I love this idea!
By Jo Jo Harder on June 14, 2018 at 4:52 am
Dream journals are cool, too. Only my dreams rarely make much sense.
By Shutta on June 15, 2018 at 7:52 pm
What an adorable book. And theme. I would love a critique from Shutta.
By cmdale on June 14, 2018 at 10:24 am
Thank you!
By Shutta on June 15, 2018 at 7:53 pm
Great post and what a generous prize! So needed right now. Happy with my story except for the first section of the manuscript. Those words, words, words!
By Sylvia Mary Grech on June 14, 2018 at 10:46 am
Sometimes they’re real buggers aren’t they?
By Shutta on June 15, 2018 at 7:54 pm
What a delectable post and splendiferous opportunity. I love playing with the ebb and flow of words in my stories but have to admit that sometimes my choices get dinged as not age appropriate. I blame the fact I loved taking the vocabulary tests that were part of the World Book dictionary set we had when I was a child. I know it’s possible to introduce new vocabulary to children but obviously, I need to help with when and where.😃😱😃
By LeeAnn Rizzuti on June 14, 2018 at 12:28 pm
Ah! Yes. And BTW: splendorous is one of my favorites. (Almost “splendiferous.”)
By Shutta on June 15, 2018 at 7:55 pm
Thank you Tara and Shutta for a great interview! And yes, please, I’d love a critique from the amazing Shutta!
By Dana Atnip on June 14, 2018 at 1:02 pm
Hey, Dana! Hugs to you . And here’s keeping my fingers crossed.
By Shutta on June 15, 2018 at 7:56 pm
Thank you, Tara and Shutta, for the post. I’d love a critique.
By evelynchristensen on June 14, 2018 at 3:33 pm
Thank you for stopping by and commenting. Ciao!
By Shutta on June 15, 2018 at 7:56 pm
Wow, what a wonderful post! As a fellow wordie, I totally agree that “words have personalities…[and] emotional baggage” and that one must be quite precise, even picky, when selecting just the right one for a story. Thank you, also, to Tara and Shutta for sharing the 4 W’s–that seminar was by far the one that resonated the most with me at the 2016 NESCBWI! Would love to have a manuscript critiqued by Shutta–should I be so fortunate as to be selected!
By Lucretia Schafroth on June 14, 2018 at 5:47 pm
Thanks, Lucretia! I didn’t know that Tara had shared that at NESCBWI. Cool! We’ll keep fingers crossed that your name gets chosen.
By Shutta on June 15, 2018 at 7:57 pm
What a wonderful post! Ever since you pointed out the W’s in a first line, I’ve been re-reading PBs and sure enough! There they are! Thank you!!!
By Crystal Lamb on June 14, 2018 at 5:56 pm
..aaaaand I’d also love a critique!
By Crystal Lamb on June 14, 2018 at 5:57 pm
So glad you’re reading like a writer!!!
By Shutta on June 15, 2018 at 7:58 pm
This book sounds delightful and I would greatly appreciate a critique 😉
By lydialukidis on June 14, 2018 at 9:14 pm
Thanks!
By Shutta on June 15, 2018 at 7:58 pm
You are a word whisperer Shutta. I would love a chance to have you critique mine. 🙂
By Keila Dawson on June 14, 2018 at 11:52 pm
Hey, Keila! How are you? It’s been a long time. Hugs.
By Shutta on June 15, 2018 at 7:59 pm
Hi Shutta! It has. Hope to run into you again one day. Good things happening. Love. That. Mouse.
By Keila Dawson on July 1, 2018 at 7:05 pm
Fabulous word choices! I love your focus on the whole body involved in language. People think preschool teachers are a bit crazy, but that’s how little ones learn. Not crazy, but silly songs, actions, games, books…Perfect! I would love a critique!
By Angie on June 15, 2018 at 10:47 am
I LOVE how words sound in the mouth. It’s part of the gestalt of communicating. YAY!
By Shutta on June 15, 2018 at 8:00 pm
I love words also and I would love a picture book critique!
By Carolyn Currier on June 15, 2018 at 10:59 am
Cool! Another wordie! Hang in there.
By Shutta on June 15, 2018 at 8:01 pm
I’ve just returned from a trip to England with a boot full of new words! So excited! Thank you, Shutta, for a picture book to encourage word appreciation!
By Suzanne LaLiberte Lewis on June 15, 2018 at 11:03 am
A “boot full” Cool! It’s always good to see what’s under the bonnet in a manuscript.
By Shutta on June 15, 2018 at 8:02 pm
This post really spoke to me. Like the two of you, I enjoy playing with words, hearing them sing, and watching their personalities interact with one another. Such fun!
By Cindy Williams Schrauben on June 15, 2018 at 5:13 pm
Yes! Fun. Thank you.
By Shutta on June 15, 2018 at 8:03 pm
“when I think about word choice I think of words like people. Words have personalities, and like any person there is always more than what meets the eye. Words have emotional baggage, a cultural upbringing, physical sensibilities and an historical demeanor. Considering all of these factors is critical when writing for young readers.”
Those line really stuck out for me.
(uh, and also, I wasn’t expecting to read about The Story of O in this post. LOL. That was a funny story. I can imagine the look on your teacher’s face.)
By Linda Hofke on June 15, 2018 at 7:12 pm
OMG! His face was so red he looked like he was going to pop. Years later I learned what the book was about. Yikes! Actually glad that was one book I only read a line or two from. Whew . . . close call.
By Shutta on June 15, 2018 at 8:05 pm
Thank you for the opportunity! I would love the honor of your critique!
By Rebecca Gardyn Levington on June 15, 2018 at 7:49 pm
You’re welcome!
By Shutta on June 15, 2018 at 8:06 pm
I love the idea of a word journal. I keep a list of all the fun sounding and often seldom used words that I love, hoping to find a place for them at some point in a story. Would love a critique if I’m the lucky one!
By marty on June 15, 2018 at 10:25 pm
Yes. Good for you!
By Shutta on July 1, 2018 at 2:19 pm
Love Mousling’s Words! Great interview, Shutta and Tara!!
By Judy Bryan on June 16, 2018 at 10:01 am
Thank you!
By Shutta on July 1, 2018 at 2:20 pm
I can’t wait to read Mousling’s Words. Thanks for sharing your insight!
By theelords on June 16, 2018 at 5:49 pm
Hope you get a chance to read it!
By Shutta on July 1, 2018 at 2:20 pm
So timely. I was just going over a manuscript and was thinking that I need to “up”the words to a new level!
By Stephen S. Martin on June 16, 2018 at 8:47 pm
Always!
By Shutta on July 1, 2018 at 2:21 pm
Your Florida friends miss you too, Shutta. What a great interview and I’m using your idea for a word journal. Thanks, Tara, for inviting Shutta to share with you. A real treat.
By MD Knabb on June 17, 2018 at 2:50 pm
Florida writers rock!
By Shutta on July 1, 2018 at 2:21 pm
I loved your comment about words have personalities. How true!
By Sheri on June 18, 2018 at 11:31 am
Yup! (Just like this one sounds homey and approachable. That’s me!)
By Shutta on July 1, 2018 at 2:22 pm
Words have personality, sure – but they have power, too. Great post – can’t wait to read Mousling’s Words.
By Sue Heavenrich on June 18, 2018 at 3:57 pm
They sure do! I hope you enjoy Mouseling’s Words.
By Shutta on July 1, 2018 at 2:23 pm
I’d love Shutta’s word-smithy eyes on one of my manuscripts. What #kidlit writer would not want access to this amazing opportunity? Great post, Tara!
By Carol Gordon Ekster on June 18, 2018 at 5:54 pm
Keep your fingers crossed!
By Shutta on July 1, 2018 at 2:23 pm
I love the term wordie. This book looks so cute. I would love to win a critique. Thank you for the opportunity and post.
By Ashley Bankhead on June 19, 2018 at 1:05 pm
Thank you for stopping by!
By Shutta on July 1, 2018 at 2:24 pm
Words are magic indeed!
By Lori Williams on June 20, 2018 at 12:03 am
Yes!
By Shutta on July 1, 2018 at 2:24 pm
It was stimulating for me to read your post on words. I, too, keep a word journal of a sort and especially like the ways children use and misuse words!
I would so appreciate your critique. Thank you. I hope you come to Pittsburgh. You can check us out on Littsburgh, Literary Pittsburgh.
By Sandra Ekstrom on June 20, 2018 at 9:54 am
Would LOVE to come to Pittsburgh. Ask your local SCBWI to invite me!!!
By Shutta on July 1, 2018 at 2:27 pm
A word journal is a fabulous idea! Thanks for sharing so much about what words mean to you, Shutta.
By Judy Sobanski (@jkspburg) on June 20, 2018 at 2:26 pm
You’re welcome!
By Shutta on July 1, 2018 at 2:28 pm
Congrats on your book Shutta! It looks wonderful.
I have pages in my writing notebook with random words, song titles, and homophones. I’m so glad to hear you have a journal full. You’ve inspired me to keep it going!
Words, words, words! Gooooo words!
I would be grateful for a critique. Thank you.
By Heather Kelso on June 20, 2018 at 10:49 pm
Keep up the good work!
By Shutta on July 1, 2018 at 2:28 pm
Words, words, and more words. You are so right about collecting them. Your book is so cute and offering a critique is so generous. Thanks for the opportunity.
By svaisnoras on June 21, 2018 at 1:07 pm
Let’s hope you’re the lucky one!
By Shutta on July 1, 2018 at 2:29 pm
Total word pack-rat here, lovingly dispensing them in my writing. Thanks for the witty article. I’d love a critique!
By Lenora Rougeou Biemans on June 21, 2018 at 5:56 pm
Hope you’re keeping a journal of your favorite words.
By Shutta on July 1, 2018 at 2:30 pm
Collecting words in a word journal is a great idea! Thank you for sharing!
By Writer on the run on June 22, 2018 at 5:51 pm
Writer on the run…slow down and enjoy the wordy journey.
By Shutta on July 1, 2018 at 2:30 pm
I love the idea of being a wordie spy and keeping different word journals! Thank you so much for sharing. And I’d love a critique if I’m lucky enough to be the winner!
By sharonkdal on June 23, 2018 at 7:53 pm
Wordie’s rock! Here’s keeping fingers crossed for you.
By Shutta on July 1, 2018 at 2:31 pm
So many nuggets in here and I haven’t even made it to the additional resources linked. Thanks for sharing your love of words and for the opportunity to win a critique.
By Amanda Sincavage on June 27, 2018 at 12:54 pm
Amanda, you’re welcome. So glad you stopped by.
By Shutta on July 1, 2018 at 2:32 pm
Thank you for your post! We talk about, “Voice,” utilizing the personality of the author, but authors utilize words, which have their own personalities. Yay! And thank you for offering a critique. I’d love one (for a short wordie PB manuscript).
By Nina Nolan on June 28, 2018 at 12:42 am
Here’s keeping my fingers crossed for you!
By Shutta on July 1, 2018 at 2:32 pm
I have always called myself a word nerd. I love collecting new words!Wordier sounds so much friendlier! Either way, I love words, but never considered keeping a word journal. Time to start.
By Carmela McCain Simmons on January 14, 2019 at 12:00 am