by Steve Barr (from 2013)
I can’t really begin to pinpoint where my inspiration comes from. When people ask where I get my ideas, I don’t tend to have an answer ready. Ideas just seem to leap into my head out of nowhere. My best guess is that there’s some faulty wiring in my brain. That’s most likely due to the regular “thumpings” my older brother gave me on a daily basis as we were growing up. Perhaps he knocked a few screws loose.
I can get inspired by all sorts of things. Some of my best ideas pop into my mind when I’m driving down the highway with no music on, just daydreaming. Or when I’m laying in bed drifting off to sleep. If I had music blaring inside the truck, the lyrics would be too distracting and I’d just end up singing along with them. At home, when I’m locked away in my studio, I do listen to music. But it’s usually jazz, classical or new age. Anything that doesn’t have words blasting into my mind. I want all of the words that are rushing through my head to be my own.
I OBSERVE. By that, I mean I tend to truly look at everything around me. If I’ve hiked miles away from civilization and I’m sitting on a mountaintop watching a hawk fly above me, I’m usually thinking “Oh….THAT’S how their wings are shaped when they’re drifting!” and I incorporate that into my work later. You may sometimes see me sitting in a mall somewhere, and it will appear that I’m gawking at people passing by. Sometimes I stare. But what’s actually going through my mind is “So, that’s how the wrinkles on a coat look when someone bends their arm” or “What a crazy hat! I need to remember that and draw it later.”
I also LISTEN. When other people are talking, I really want to hear what they have to say. Their problems, their frustrations and the things that make them laugh. Because, after all, any of those conversations can be the foundation of an idea for a book or a cartoon. Inspiration is all around us, and we just need to learn how to harness it in our own way.
For instance, a friend was recently telling me that he was concerned that his wife was thinking of getting rid of him. On my ride home, the idea for a cartoon about that popped into my head and I drew it the next day.
Yet another acquaintance was complaining about having trouble getting to sleep. As I was approaching my cabin later that night, a raccoon darted across my path. Those two subjects merged in my mind, and another cartoon was born.
The process of creating books and cartoon ideas are very similar. It’s just that cartoons are compressed into images and thoughts that can be expressed quickly, while books use pictures and words to give a longer, more complete story.
But, like everyone else involved in creative endeavors, there are those days where I’m stopped dead in my tracks by a severe case of “writer’s block”. What do I do then? Well, sometimes I give myself a break, walk away from my work and let my batteries recharge. But if I’m faced with a tight deadline, whether it’s self-imposed or from contractual obligations, I do have a backup plan. I use a technique taught to me by another successful cartoonist when I was young. I take a sheet of notebook paper and divide it into columns. The columns are labelled “Main Character”, “Setting”, and “Supporting Characters”. I fill the columns with all sorts of possibilities, then either close my eyes and randomly circle sections from each column or I simply pick combinations that I think might work. This creates unique combinations I may not have thought about otherwise, and can help trigger new ideas and possibilities.
Cartoonists, like authors, are doing the same thing as a movie director. They created a cast, give them their lines and put them in the right surroundings.
Here’s an example of the chart:
Once one of the combinations begins to trigger ideas, I roll with it….trying to think of what the characters might be saying to each other or how they would be interacting. This method would probably work just as nicely for inspiring writers as it for helping cartoonists. I ask myself what the characters would have in common, or what issues they might be struggling with. And here are the results of combining a dog, a restaurant and a woman on a date:
So, my creative process is very similar to approaching a railroad crossing. Stop. Look. And listen!
Sometimes it results in wonderful inspiration. And other times it results in a train wreck. If the latter happens, I just dust myself off, tuck that idea away for a different time and start on another.
As the late great cartoonist Gil Foxx once wrote in a book he signed to me, “Persist. Over…..and over….and over…and over.” Just keep chugging away, and eventually you are bound to end up on the right track.
Another great source of inspiration can be your editor. (Or an agent, if you have one.) Something I think that many writers and artists tend to forget is that your editor is your best friend. They’re your teammate. You both have the same goal. You are both trying to develop the best product possible. I know quite a few people who like to argue with their editors when they’re given input, because they feel a bit insulted that someone is trying to change part of their creation.
I’ve never looked at it that way. I have been blessed with the opportunity to work with some of the finest editors in the field, and I would always listen to their suggestions because I knew they had my best interests at heart.
Do you know that Maurice Sendak had originally intended to call Where the Wild Things Are something totally different? Yup. He was going to title it Land of the Wild Horses. But when he started working on the illustrations, he realized that he wasn’t very good at drawing horses. It was his editor’s suggestion to change it to “WIld Things,” inspired by a Yiddish expression that referred to boisterous children.
Can you imagine the world of children’s literature without Where the Wild Things Are in it? I can’t. And it may never have happened if he hadn’t been willing to collaborate closely with his editor.
Christina Richards, my editor at IMPACT Books, edited my books perfectly and seamlessly. By the time I received the galley proofs for Draw Crazy Creatures, I could not tell which words were mine and which ones were hers. She had removed unnecessary and redundant text during the editing process, and had made minor changes to some of my sentences that had a major impact on them. A major impact that made them better. She made the book flow smoothly.
So I’d highly recommend that folks in the creative end of this business open themselves up to constructive criticism, helpful suggestions and any input from the editorial staff they are working with. These people are in the positions they are in because they know what they are doing. They are the inspiration behind the scenes, and when they’re done helping you, they will have played a huge role in making you and your work shine.
Steve Barr is the author and illustrator of Draw Crazy Creatures and Draw Awesome Animals from IMPACT books. He’s also written and illustrated a series of 11 books in the 1-2-3 Draw line from Peel Productions.
In the fall of 2014, Steve began taking free cartoon drawing classes to pediatric patients in hospitals and at camps. In a very short time demand for these programs increased dramatically, and other cartoonists and illustrators started asking how they could do something similar in their own areas. That’s how his non-profit organization “Drawn To Help” evolved into something really special that he’s taking nationwide. Learn more at SteveBarrCartoons.com.
At the conclusion of Storystorm, prize packs will be given away (books, swag, writing tools). Comment once on this blog post to enter into the prize pack drawing.
You’re eligible to win if you’re a registered Storystorm participant and you have commented once below.
Good luck!
546 comments
Comments feed for this article
January 10, 2019 at 9:06 am
Polly Renner
Thank you, Steve, for your encouragement!
January 10, 2019 at 9:11 am
Cynthia Hawthorne
Thanks Steve. I really enjoy your illustrations. I’ve heard of the “three legged stool” exercise to come up with ideas. Even if the idea doesn’t work out, it’s as great exercise to prime the well.
January 10, 2019 at 9:12 am
Tara Hannon
Word lists are my favorite! Thanks for the inspiration today!
January 10, 2019 at 9:13 am
jheitman22
Lots of great takeaways here, especially the idea-generating chart. Thanks, Steve! Keep the laughs coming!
January 10, 2019 at 9:15 am
Writer on the run
Thanks Steve! Great blog- I haven’t yet worked with an editor, so your comments about being a team with an editor leapt out at me. I have resources! Others will help and guide! Thanks!
January 10, 2019 at 9:16 am
Joan Longstaff
I like the randomness of your three column technique to finding potential story ideas. Thanks for the tip Steve!
January 10, 2019 at 9:18 am
Kathy Halsey
Steve, I remember this post from PiBoIdMo. It stayed with me. We creatives need to open ourselves up when editors/folks who know more try to help us. I agree that writing is a collaborative effort. And this is so true, “Persist. Over…..and over….and over…and over.” Ty.
January 10, 2019 at 9:18 am
Lisa Freund
Thanks for the chart! I’m going to make one today and see what surprises connect for a story. Love the cartoons they are so funny!
January 10, 2019 at 9:23 am
Laura Perdew
The chart is a fun idea. I might turn it into an idea jar (or three) to pull characters and settings from. Thank you!
January 10, 2019 at 9:24 am
Andria Rosenbaum
Love the idea of making a big list! I’m going to put possibilities on poster board & hang it in my office 🙂
January 10, 2019 at 9:24 am
Janie Reinart
Steve your free cartoon classes for kids is a fantastic idea! I cannot listen to music with words when I write either. Thanks for the tips.
January 10, 2019 at 9:25 am
thecrowsmap
Wow. I needed this post today. I needed to be reminded to persist. Thanks! Gail Hartman
January 10, 2019 at 9:26 am
Lisa L Furness
Thank you for sharing your journey with us Steve. How wonderful you share your talents with children in the “Drawn to Help” non profit that you founded.
January 10, 2019 at 9:28 am
pathaap
Thanks for sharing your cartoons (hilarious!) and the inspiration behind them.Very helpful to any writer!
January 10, 2019 at 9:34 am
beckylevine
All good reminders. Thanks!
January 10, 2019 at 9:35 am
Tina Cho
Love the bit about working with your editor and Maurice Sendak. Thank you for your tips!
January 10, 2019 at 9:35 am
Jane Serpa
Thank you for sharing.
January 10, 2019 at 9:37 am
Joan Swanson
I love the three column ideas. I often get ideas driving down the road too. When they come, I only hope that I’m the passenger so I can write it down before I forget!
January 10, 2019 at 9:38 am
Meli Glickman
It’s amazing how listening and observing can generate story possibilities! And I love the idea of the three columns! Many thanks for sharing!
January 10, 2019 at 9:38 am
Jennifer Phillips
Lots of great advice packed into this blog post. Wow. Thank you!
January 10, 2019 at 9:39 am
Carolyn Farina
Really helpful. Thanks so much!
January 10, 2019 at 9:39 am
Laura Purdie Salas
I think persistence really is the ultimate answer. But I love your shirt too. I think I used it the first time around this blog post appeared, and I’m going to take it out for a spin this week again!
January 10, 2019 at 9:40 am
acongdon85
This was very informative with many topic starters. Just the other day I had an idea from an observation that had to do with throwing away garbage. Thanks for the tip!
January 10, 2019 at 9:40 am
kaleegwarjanski
three columns is great. I have done a similar exercise and I am always amazed with the combinations I never would have thought of otherwise.
January 10, 2019 at 9:41 am
Jennifer G Prevost
“I want all of the words that are rushing through my head to be my own.” One of my favorite Storystorm lines yet… this was a fantastic post. I’m definitely going to try the word lists. Thanks for re-sharing!
January 10, 2019 at 9:43 am
Nadine Gamble
I’ve tried the three column method every year…train wreck!
January 10, 2019 at 9:48 am
C.L. Murphy
Thanks for the ideas and reminding us to keep chugging along, Steve. I think I can…I think I can…
January 10, 2019 at 9:50 am
Debra K Shumaker
Great post! I, too, can’t listen to music with lyrics when I write. . .just something instrumental works for me.
January 10, 2019 at 9:51 am
ptnozell
Stop! Look! Listen! Some great advice packed into this guest post & loved the visuals.
January 10, 2019 at 9:55 am
Lynn Baldwin
What a simple yet effective method!
January 10, 2019 at 9:56 am
Melanie Ellsworth
Love your cartoons, the chart idea, and the suggestion to use your editor for inspiration!
January 10, 2019 at 9:56 am
teacherwriteracker
Your cartoons are fabulous. I love the word column idea.
January 10, 2019 at 9:56 am
hallee2012
This post is brilliant. I love your work and appreciate you sharing your process. Off to make a fun chart…
January 10, 2019 at 9:56 am
booksbygee
Thank you, Steve! I love the mad libs brainstorming tip!
January 10, 2019 at 9:57 am
Carrie Kruck
Though I don’t have an editor (YET!!), your post made me think of all the ideas that have been born of my willingness to be open to suggestions of my brilliant and generous critique partners! Sometimes they enhance a current manuscript, sometimes they spin off into new ones. Thanks for the reminder that filling our lives with creative people can also fill the well of ideas!
January 10, 2019 at 9:58 am
Johnell DeWitt
What fun. You’ve sparked an idea too. Thank you.
January 10, 2019 at 9:59 am
Debbie Lodato
Steve, love your cartoons and illustrations.
I can see why there is a demand for you to teach.
Sign me up 😀
January 10, 2019 at 10:01 am
Kim Erickson
Great ideas — I especially loved your thoughts about observation.
January 10, 2019 at 10:02 am
Kim Pfennigwerth
Love the idea of random ideas from the chart to get inspiration flowing but even more I love the paying it forward with the free cartoon classes. As a person who cannot draw taking part in a short cartoon class at a museum in November was liberating to set my judgement of myself aside and just try something new.
January 10, 2019 at 10:02 am
joyceschr
I have a log where I keep track of the Storystorm ideas. Today I wrote: See something? Write something. Thanks!
January 10, 2019 at 10:03 am
Savannah
This is fantastic! I didn’t know that about WYWTA, I loved hearing about your editorial process, and how amazing your cartoon class must be for those hospital patients!
January 10, 2019 at 10:03 am
Suzanne Lewis
Thank you, Steve, for an interesting and inspiring post! I will persist!
January 10, 2019 at 10:04 am
Megan Whitaker
I like the idea of a chart when I’m just stuck-it is something I can add to as I think of them. Your camps sound great for those kiddos!
January 10, 2019 at 10:04 am
Jessica Potts
What a great post! I love hearing an illustrator’s perspective!
January 10, 2019 at 10:07 am
Aimee Isaac
Stop, look, and listen works for me too!!
January 10, 2019 at 10:09 am
Catherine Morgans
Love the reminder to stop, look and listen.
January 10, 2019 at 10:11 am
naturewalkwithgod
Thank you for your suggestions, Steve. I copied your info about working with editors into a file to keep. An excellent reminder for writers and illustrators! –Kim
January 10, 2019 at 10:11 am
Alice Carty Fulgione
It’s always inspirational to me to listen to an illustrator’s point of view. I especially loved the column idea because I’m definitely a list maker.
January 10, 2019 at 10:14 am
Kathryn E Kass
I really enjoy that idea generator chart. Thanks for re-living this post!
January 10, 2019 at 10:15 am
Darcee A Freier
Thanks for the words of wisdom. I made a chart and am looking forward to many happy stories.
January 10, 2019 at 10:19 am
Sally Lotz Spratt - Badass 2019🦋 (@SallyLotzSpratt)
You’ve given me new ways to come up with inspiration. Sometimes it’s just slowing down and looking at what’s going on around you.
January 10, 2019 at 10:19 am
Robin Jordan
What a useful post! I’m happy it made its way back. I’m going to slow down and try to take things in today, and maybe even tomorrow and…
Thanks a bunch for the handy tidbits, Steve and, of course, for publishing them, Tara!
January 10, 2019 at 10:20 am
Jennifer Ali
I like the list idea! Also, thanks for the info on your non-profit work.
January 10, 2019 at 10:20 am
hmmmmm
Thanks Steve. I like the 3 columns idea too.
And Drawn to Help sounds fantastic!
January 10, 2019 at 10:21 am
Joy Pitcairn
Great idea! I keep wishing I had a class of students this year to share all of these prompts with too.
January 10, 2019 at 10:24 am
thelmakat
I love the three column idea! Also, how important it is to just slow down and stop, look, and listen. Thanks for sharing!!
January 10, 2019 at 10:25 am
Helen Matthews
Like the idea of the columns to randomize /brainstorm stories. Will add it to my list!
January 10, 2019 at 10:30 am
Barbara Farr Renner
Great tips. I can’t listen to music either when I write. And, I usually get my aha ideas on my walks, then I hurry home to my computer. Thanks for your suggestions.
January 10, 2019 at 10:32 am
Mark Bentz
Thank you Steve for this valuable information.
Great illustrations! Looks like you really enjoy what you do.
January 10, 2019 at 10:40 am
Charlotte Offsay
Thank you! Appreciate your insight and sharing your backup exercise!
January 10, 2019 at 10:41 am
Debra Katz
I good reminder that we all should be present (stop, look, listen), not just for the sake of our writing, but because we could all benefit from being in the moment. Also liked the practical advice about working with an editor.
January 10, 2019 at 10:42 am
Robin Brett Wechsler
I like your funny cartoons, helpful chart, and motivational quote from Gil Foxx. And the reminder to listen to what others say about our work. It’s crazy to think about how different Where the Wild Things Are (one of my favorite PBs) might have been. Thanks, Steve!
January 10, 2019 at 10:42 am
authorlaurablog
So many great ideas, thank you for sharing! I love the cartoon with the woman and the dog on a first date. 💜
January 10, 2019 at 10:43 am
Genevieve Petrillo
Gil Foxx’s Quote reminded me of of a memorable quote from one of my 3rd graders. The kids were doing something with lick and stick stamps. I stressed, “Only lick it ONCE. Otherwise it’ll get too wet.” One of the kids couldn’t get his to stick. I said. “Did you lick it once?” He said, “YES! I licked it once FIFTY TIMES, and it STILL won’t stick.”
January 10, 2019 at 10:43 am
Lisa Billa
Great advice! I’ll have fun making a three column list to save for later!
January 10, 2019 at 10:43 am
Alyssa Sinnen
Yes! Be present in everything, for being in the moment can produce wonderful ideas. I especially like the idea of lists/columns to help generate ideas. Thanks for all the helpful advice!
January 10, 2019 at 10:44 am
Cortney
Stop, look, listen! Thanks for the inspiration Steve!
January 10, 2019 at 10:45 am
sarahheturadny
Wow what a great post! I agree that inspiration just pops into my head. When I am lucky to have an agent or editor I will most certainly remain open to any and all criticism! Thank you!!
January 10, 2019 at 10:47 am
Juliana Lee
Hi Steve! So glad Tara decided to revive this post. I remember your chart and have used it myself with varying degrees of success…sometimes a gremlin in a cave with a princess doesn’t work. Sometimes it does!
January 10, 2019 at 10:48 am
Nicole M
This was an excellent read! Lots of inspiration. Thank you!
January 10, 2019 at 10:50 am
Amy Bradshaw
Your inspiring words will definitely help me with ideas today. Thank you!
January 10, 2019 at 10:52 am
Kimberly
What a treasure trove – all of these past posts are great! What once was old is new again! Thank you for your getting unstuck idea. Definitely going to add it in to my repertoire.
January 10, 2019 at 10:59 am
vijikc
To be able to draw is a true gift! Thank you for the ideas for the writer in me.
January 10, 2019 at 11:00 am
Mary Lou Johnson
So much to thank you for: how to observe details, how to get ideas, how to appreciate editors, and for your charitable work with children in hospitals.
January 10, 2019 at 11:02 am
faygie1
Your artwork put a smile on my face this morning! Thank you. I can’t draw at all and I’m always amazed by those who can.
January 10, 2019 at 11:03 am
Judy Sobanski (@jkspburg)
Thank you for sharing your sources of inspiration!
January 10, 2019 at 11:05 am
Sarah SarahH
I love this post, thanks for sharing!
January 10, 2019 at 11:05 am
bevbaird
So much inspiration ( and chuckles!) here. Thanks so much.
January 10, 2019 at 11:08 am
Cinzia V.
Love these ideas, thanks. And am inspired by “Drawn To Help”!!!
January 10, 2019 at 11:09 am
writeknit
We lived next to a kid named Steve Barr several years ago! Thanks for the inspiration and information you shared with us today.
January 10, 2019 at 11:10 am
Cindy Faughnan
great ideas every day!
January 10, 2019 at 11:11 am
LaTonya Richardson
I’m looking forward to making a chart. Let the ideas roll!
January 10, 2019 at 11:14 am
June Sengpiehl
A interesting post with valid suggestions for writers and illustrators. Fun to hear how other artists work.
January 10, 2019 at 11:15 am
Louann Brown
Your formula for coming up with ideas is great. Thanks for sharing!
January 10, 2019 at 11:16 am
Jodi Mckay
Thanks for sharing your processes for finding story ideas, Steve!
January 10, 2019 at 11:17 am
Jessica Kulekjian
Thank you, Steve for sharing your process. I’ve never tried a chart like that before. What a great idea. Your organization, Drawn to Help, also sounds amazing!
January 10, 2019 at 11:20 am
Hélène Sabourin
It’s such a good idea to encourage kids to draw and so great to know that other illustrators are doing it too.
January 10, 2019 at 11:20 am
donnacangelosi
I love this post and your fantastic cartoons! Thanks so much for sharing your ideas to spark creativity!
January 10, 2019 at 11:24 am
Chambrae Griffith
So many gems in this post! Thanks Steve!
January 10, 2019 at 11:30 am
sherilyncook
Awesome TIPS! Your article was thought provoking and I appreciate your wisdom!
January 10, 2019 at 11:31 am
Rachel McKinney
I really appreciated your description of gawking… a coat has. A lot to teach us about movements of different weights and textures…if we only look closely and long enough! Like so many others here, I’ll be coming back to the three column graph! Thanks!
January 10, 2019 at 11:34 am
Janice Woods
Really very helpful! Thank you so much!
January 10, 2019 at 11:34 am
Lori Dubbin
I love your cartoons and the idea chart. Thanks for reminding us to stop, look, and listen to the world and our editors, too.
January 10, 2019 at 11:35 am
Michele Helsel
I am open to changing anything per an editor’s suggestions. Any takers?
January 10, 2019 at 11:36 am
matthewlasley
I like the idea of the list to include supporting characters. We often think of the MC and plot, but there are very few books that don’t have a supporting character(s). If you have that written out, then the fleshing of the plot and story would be easier.
January 10, 2019 at 11:39 am
Claire W Bobrow
Thanks, Steve, for the important reminder to pay attention to what’s going on all around us, and to listen to constructive criticism! Love your work 🙂
January 10, 2019 at 11:40 am
Betsy Parkinson
Great cartoons! I love how the obvious can be combined into something less obvious!
January 10, 2019 at 11:41 am
susan gruidel
Inspiration comes from so many different places. It’s fascinating to think about . I relate to Steve’s not knowing exactly where it comes from. Life, I guess. Thank you for this.
January 10, 2019 at 11:41 am
jenabenton
I’m going to share your 3-column method with my 1st graders today!
January 10, 2019 at 11:42 am
danesusawwii
Something new to try – thank you!
January 10, 2019 at 11:43 am
karammitchell
Steve! Thank you so much! I love the three-column exercise. I wondered if I could add a column with funny verbs. I googled, “list of funny verbs” and got this! https://studentsandwriters.com/2018/02/09/funny-mad-libs-word-lists-adjectives-nouns-and-verbs/ Thanks again, sir! I’m pumped to write and brainstorm today.
January 10, 2019 at 11:44 am
David McMullin
Wise and encouraging! Thank you, Steve.
January 10, 2019 at 11:46 am
Joana Pastro
Thanks, Steve for this inspiring post and the cartoons! A great way to start the day!
January 10, 2019 at 11:46 am
shannonstocker
I absolutely love the idea of separating a paper into columns for writers block, and look forward to stealing that (though I don’t look forward to writer’s block). I also can’t wait to check out your books for my 8yo son, who loves to draw and takes a cartoon drawing class every Friday!
January 10, 2019 at 11:47 am
Kathy Mazurowski
Thanks for the suggestions
January 10, 2019 at 11:48 am
Jenny Boyd
Thanks for sharing with us your creative process! I love what you’ve done for pediatric patients, too.
January 10, 2019 at 11:50 am
Sylvia Grech
Steve, I loved your article! And your clever cartoons made me laugh. Thank you for the chart…it’s going to be quite helpful to me.
January 10, 2019 at 11:50 am
kirsticall
Great post, Steve and I loved the cartoons also!
January 10, 2019 at 11:50 am
Pamela Harrison
What a wonderful post! I love what you are doing to help children. And your cartoons are so creative!
January 10, 2019 at 11:50 am
Steve Barr
Thanks for all of your kind words, everyone. And don’t forget – when you all get your books published, sign a few and send them to us to give to children in the hospitals we serve. (Hint, hint….hint, hint!) 🙂
January 10, 2019 at 11:52 am
Gregory E Bray
Great post, Steve. Thank you!
January 10, 2019 at 11:52 am
lindaschueler
I’m trying to do more of this: “Stop. Look. And listen!”
January 10, 2019 at 11:53 am
kcareywrites
I always need complete quiet when I’m working too! I agree — the only words I want to hear are the crazy ones in my head!
Thanks for sharing! (And the cartoons were hysterical!)
January 10, 2019 at 11:54 am
Aurora K
The three column list idea is great. Writer’s block beware your time is up!
Thank you for sharing it, Steve.
January 10, 2019 at 11:55 am
Antje
Thank you for this awesome post! It made me stop and think many times. Your cartoons are wonderful!
January 10, 2019 at 11:55 am
!acepilot13!
Steve, thanks for passing forward the brainstorming technique. This is one I will definitely use.
January 10, 2019 at 11:56 am
Lisa Pavalon
I love the quote by the cartoonist Foxx; I have a tendency to want to give up after criticism or rejection. Thanks for sharing! I will re-read this many times in the near future, and I will definitely be uaing the 3-column idea!
January 10, 2019 at 11:56 am
writersideup
Steve, your imagination and the way YOU put together elements is exactly why you’re a successful cartoonist! I didn’t know that about Maurice and his title (LOVE hearing it) and admire your “Drawn to Help” creation. Just wonderful 😀
January 10, 2019 at 11:56 am
Liz Steinglass
Thanks for sharing this technique with us and Drawn to Help sounds absolutely wonderful.
January 10, 2019 at 11:57 am
Sara Matson
I like that column trick–going to try it. Thank you!
January 10, 2019 at 11:59 am
colleenrkosinski
Love your idea techniques!
January 10, 2019 at 12:05 pm
Kassy Keppol
Thank you for the inspiration. Love seeing the process column trick.
January 10, 2019 at 12:06 pm
Prairie Garden Girl
Your post is filled with inspiration, Steve. Time to create three columns with a MC, setting, and supporting characters.
Suzy Leopold
January 10, 2019 at 12:06 pm
Laura Rackham
your brother’s thumping was a gift in disguise;)
January 10, 2019 at 12:08 pm
Poppy P
That 3 column chart is really helpful!
January 10, 2019 at 12:09 pm
Angie
Love it! Especially the train wreck, I mean TRACK, analogy! I’ve been both. Stop, look, listen AND train wreck. LOL. Thanks for sharing!
January 10, 2019 at 12:12 pm
andreesantini
Stop look and listen, the answer to so much! And love your Drawn to Help work. Thanks for the inspiration.
January 10, 2019 at 12:13 pm
Nancy Ferguson
Thank you! The chart, listening – truly listening- paying attention to your editor-such great advice!
January 10, 2019 at 12:15 pm
Gabi Snyder
Thanks for an inspiration-packed post, Steve! I’m off to try the column method now.
January 10, 2019 at 12:17 pm
Paula Puckett
Thank you Steve Barr, for the suggestion to make a chart with main character/setting/supporting character. That sounds like a fun way to generate ideas. I’ll try that too.
January 10, 2019 at 12:20 pm
annjex
Thank you for these very practical and organic ways of finding inspiration. I tried a similar charting process to help me stop staring at the blank page and found it helped tremendously. I was also pleased to learn of your pediatric art outreach project.
January 10, 2019 at 12:20 pm
Amalia Reef
Thank you for this post. Time to open my eyes and ears!
January 10, 2019 at 12:20 pm
Danielle Dufayet
So enjoyed this post! I agree, ideas are everywhere – we just need to tune in. Love the chart too. Congrats and wishing you continued success!
January 10, 2019 at 12:21 pm
smpeace
Loved the cartoons! Thanks!
January 10, 2019 at 12:23 pm
judyrubin13
Thank you, Steve, for sharing your ideas and inspirations. Your cartoons are a delight.
January 10, 2019 at 12:25 pm
Jolene Gutierrez
I’m excited to make my own character/setting/supporting character chart and see what fun ensues!! I’m off to do that and LISTEN deeply to others throughout my day. Thank you, Steve Barr!
January 10, 2019 at 12:26 pm
Sheri Radovich
This was enlightening and I can’t wait to try your chart and look into your books for myself and my children to draw things. Thanks for your help.
January 10, 2019 at 12:26 pm
ingridboydston
The pre-made 3 way chart is a great jump starter, as I find I subconsciously try to organize even my brainstorms! 😃👍
January 10, 2019 at 12:28 pm
Kelly Conroy
I love the idea of taking two random characters and figuring out what they have in common. Thanks!
January 10, 2019 at 12:28 pm
Krista Maxwell
Thanks for the tips!
January 10, 2019 at 12:29 pm
Lindsay Fiore
Thank you for sharing the great ideas! I liked the column for brainstorming, Maurice Sendak info and I love the work that your doing for pediatric patients!
January 10, 2019 at 12:32 pm
Gretchen McLellan
Drawn to Help! Brilliant! What the world needs now is more of the ideas coming from the faulty wiring and loose screws in Steve Barr’s head.
Maybe you, Steve, should rent out your brother!
January 10, 2019 at 12:33 pm
alisongoldberg
Thank you for sharing your techniques!
January 10, 2019 at 12:34 pm
Tanya Shock
Great post! Thank you.
January 10, 2019 at 12:35 pm
Lisa Springer
I love the chart. I’m planning to create my own chart to jump start my ideas.
January 10, 2019 at 12:40 pm
bonni goldberg
Not being an illustrator or cartoonist, this look into Steve’s process is enlightening. As a former writer-in-the-schools, I’m a big fan and proponent of creative folk giving back to the community by spreading the joy and power of creating.
January 10, 2019 at 12:40 pm
supermario6
Love the cartoons! So funny and so interesting to compare them to a picture book’s message.
January 10, 2019 at 12:40 pm
Kyle McBride
I do like the chart idea to get your creative juices flowing.
January 10, 2019 at 12:42 pm
Carole Calladine
I love the idea of Drawn to Help. How wonderful. Plus I like the reminder to stop look and listen. Thanks for sharing.
January 10, 2019 at 12:42 pm
heatherbell37
Stop. Look. Listen. Thanks for the article and the reminder to observe life and it’s many stories.
January 10, 2019 at 12:42 pm
mariaordish
Awesome post, Steve! Thank you…I love the 3 column list you posted…going to try that to get the juices flowing again!
January 10, 2019 at 12:45 pm
moviemommie
Thanks for the detailed notes and story ideas!
January 10, 2019 at 12:47 pm
betlw
Thanks, Steve, for some amazing ways to capture new ideas for either writing or drawing. I like that you’re sharing your talents with pediatric patients. I’ll bet these kids love seeing you come. I love your ideas and your art. We all need to be a bit crazy and wacky.
January 10, 2019 at 12:48 pm
Penny Parker Klostermann
Love the chart! And I like the idea of your words filling your head! Your cartoons made me laugh! Thanks!
January 10, 2019 at 12:51 pm
ktfrawley11gmailcom
I love this columns idea! I’m going to enlist my kids to help me fill the columns when they get out of school. The family that writes together….fights together? Well, that’s not right. But I know we’ll have fun doing this activity!
January 10, 2019 at 12:56 pm
tiffanydickinson
Steve, this is so helpful. I appreciate your thoughts on how and editor is the writer’s friend and teammate. So good for us to remember that we have the same goal. Thanks for sharing!
January 10, 2019 at 12:57 pm
Rinda Beach
I’m with you…I let life make suggestions. Ants, ducks, and bats have asked to be part of my stories. My job…to polish each one till they’re publish-ready.
January 10, 2019 at 12:58 pm
susan
Love the concept of stop, look & listen.
January 10, 2019 at 12:59 pm
Susan Johnston
Thanks for sharing your chart! That is super helpful.
January 10, 2019 at 12:59 pm
triciacandy
Thanks for the column idea and reminder about the creative input of editors.
January 10, 2019 at 1:00 pm
mariagianferrari
I remember this post very well! Thanks for the fun creative chart, Steve. Love the cartoon about long walks on the beach–so cute & funny!
January 10, 2019 at 1:01 pm
Shirley
Thanks for lots of good ideas.
January 10, 2019 at 1:02 pm
Gayle Veitenheimer
Wow! Drawn to Help sounds awesome. What a great idea! Great post too.
January 10, 2019 at 1:08 pm
Krista Harrington
Thank you for the great ideas, Steve! I often find little nuggets of inspiration from the conversations of my boys:)
January 10, 2019 at 1:09 pm
Erica Joseph
Thanks for sharing!
January 10, 2019 at 1:13 pm
Marie Sanderson
Your simple 3 column idea is a great one which I will try today! And I love knowing that Where the Wild Things Are was originally to be Land of the Wild Horses! It’s just nice to be reminded that this creative life is a process! Even for the Sendaks out there.
January 10, 2019 at 1:14 pm
LeeAnn Rizzuti
Some great insights from a generous artist. Thanks, Steve.
January 10, 2019 at 1:17 pm
Mary Jane Muir
Steve Barr – Thanks for this great post! Today I will listen for conversations.
January 10, 2019 at 1:19 pm
Debra Daugherty
As I was reading your post, I thought this is like coming to a railroad crossing, stop, look, listen, and then later in the post, you said just that. This was an inspiring post and I especially enjoyed your cartoons and the explanation on how they came to be. Thanks, Steve!
January 10, 2019 at 1:21 pm
LAUREN BARBIERI
Love your illustrations, and the chart idea-generation method is fun. Thank you!
January 10, 2019 at 1:23 pm
Melissa
I love all of these blogs, they are so helpful! I too observe everything and I’m sure people think I’m staring. I love to see all kinds of different things and I’m sure that people think I’m a bit off bending down to take a picture of water drops on a plant after the rain. Thank you Steve! 🙂
January 10, 2019 at 1:24 pm
Stephanie Shaw
Thank you, Steve. I love the positive attitude!
January 10, 2019 at 1:25 pm
RebeccaTheWriter
Thank you for sharing your tools for idea-generation! Love the list idea and I will definitely remember to stop-look-and-listen more often! (I almost wrote stop-drop-and-roll, but not sure that would work out as well!)
January 10, 2019 at 1:33 pm
Katie L. Carroll (@KatieLCarroll)
Fun ideas!
January 10, 2019 at 1:34 pm
leeanimator
Thanks so much for your article!!! When I am ready for an Editor I will take your advise and listen closely to what they want me to do. And good luck with the cartoon classes!!!!
January 10, 2019 at 1:35 pm
rimna
Love the three-columns chart idea – thanks!
January 10, 2019 at 1:35 pm
Cindy Mims
Word lists are great brainstorming!
Thank you!
January 10, 2019 at 1:37 pm
Tom Barrett
Nice idea with the 3 column sheet! Thanks!
January 10, 2019 at 1:39 pm
Michele Grieder
Love the chart! Thank you! I laughed about where you said you observe at the mall – I do that too!!!
January 10, 2019 at 1:39 pm
Aimee Satterlee
What a great chart! As an elementary teacher we had dice with main characters, setting, etc. and the kids loved to roll to see what crazy combination they would write about. I love the reminder to Listen. I need to pause and take that advice to heart. Thank you Steve!
January 10, 2019 at 1:39 pm
Jane Baskwill
Thanks Steve. I had never thought of the two processes being so similar.
January 10, 2019 at 1:43 pm
Angie
What stood out to me was your description of what it means to observe. So often we could be looking right at a bird flying and instead of noticing the beauty and detail in that, we are thinking of our to-do list. Thank you!
January 10, 2019 at 1:45 pm
Jen Bailey
I like the idea of putting random characters together and seeing what they have in common. Thanks!
January 10, 2019 at 1:55 pm
Mary Worley
I really like the way he emphasizes that an author is part of a team. So much easier to process constructive criticism when you know the person wants you to succeed.
January 10, 2019 at 1:59 pm
Jennifer Bower
I love lists! What an inspiring post. Thanks Steve!
January 10, 2019 at 2:03 pm
Jackie Houchin
How about Where the Tame Things Are. Or… A woman with a screaming baby, or yipping dog – on a train – with a Doctor, a vet, and an earplug and pacifier salesman?
January 10, 2019 at 2:03 pm
K.A.Steed
I like the list idea. Thank you!
January 10, 2019 at 2:04 pm
Stephen S. Martin
Love the Chart and, after seeing some of my sculptures, my friends are constantly telling me to donate my brain to science. I prefer to do it after I am dead.
January 10, 2019 at 2:05 pm
Carolyn
Thanks for the great reminders to stop, look, and listen 🙂
January 10, 2019 at 2:05 pm
phyllischerry.com
Thanks for the pointers on drawing critters and your outline of characters, places and supporting characters. Great job. Will look for your books.
January 10, 2019 at 2:07 pm
Lisa Gerin
Enloyed today’s post. Some great points here for coming up with new ideas.
January 10, 2019 at 2:07 pm
Nancy Colle
Love the list. Gonna work on one today, thanks!
January 10, 2019 at 2:07 pm
Li’vee Rehfield
Thank you Steve for unblocking us! Me😊
January 10, 2019 at 2:12 pm
Andrea Mack
Listening to conversations is the best! I got a great idea doing that this morning.
January 10, 2019 at 2:12 pm
Jen Bagan
Thank you, Steve! “Stop, look and listen” … great advice!
January 10, 2019 at 2:14 pm
Jane Dippold
Thanks for the brainstorming technique! Great post!
January 10, 2019 at 2:21 pm
Lisa Riddiough
Thank you, Steve! I love the three column idea! Simple and useful!!
January 10, 2019 at 2:22 pm
CindyC
Thanks Steve! I love your chart idea. That’s genius!
January 10, 2019 at 2:22 pm
Andrea MacDonald
Thank you for the sneak peek into your creative process. I’m sure writers can glean a lot from visual learners like yourself! P.S. Loved the cartoon about long walks on the beach.
January 10, 2019 at 2:28 pm
Dawn Prochovnic
Thank you for this! (I get some of my BEST ideas while driving with the music off). I also loved hearing about the organization you started. Beautiful on so many levels.
January 10, 2019 at 2:30 pm
RaeMcDonald
Steve, love that character development chart for opening the possibilities. And the word persist is key, is it not, for all of us creatives. Now, let’s stop-look-and listen. Thank you.
January 10, 2019 at 2:32 pm
Mary Kate
The character/setting chart is so helpful. I will have to give that a try. Thank you!
January 10, 2019 at 2:34 pm
Marge Gower
Thank you for your post. I may take your list and cut it up in strips, place them in three containers and draw from it for ideas. If my choice doesn’t work, I’ll try again. This could also trigger new ideas. Thanks again.
January 10, 2019 at 2:34 pm
Nicole Loos Miller (@beautify_life)
Love the chart!
January 10, 2019 at 2:35 pm
Teresa Daffern
Thanks for the reminder to be open to constructive criticism. It really does help one to grow. Wonderful ideas on observing too!
January 10, 2019 at 2:39 pm
Anne LeBlanc (@AnneLeBlanc2)
Steve: Thanks for the chart idea – my students LOVED it!
January 10, 2019 at 2:40 pm
heidikyates
Thank you for sharing this great post from the past! This is such helpful brainstorming advice. 🙂
January 10, 2019 at 2:41 pm
Michele Meleen
I love a good positive note about how your editors and agent are your teammates!
January 10, 2019 at 2:46 pm
Sara A
Fun post, thanks for the ideas!
January 10, 2019 at 2:47 pm
shiela Fuller
I am always open to criticism and revision. Seamless and perfect editorial guidance is like a diamond; can make our stories shine even brighter.
January 10, 2019 at 2:49 pm
nicolesalterbraun
Thanks for the encouragement & advice. Love the cartoon w/ the husband! And adore that u work w/ pediatric patients as I was a pets nurse for 12 yrs.
January 10, 2019 at 2:54 pm
Maria Marshall
Steve, I love your chart. A workshop I attended did a similar thing with 3×5 cards. We all had to pick one from 3 categories & quickly makeup a story. The belly laughs alone are worth the butterflies! Thanks for reminding me of this technique.
January 10, 2019 at 2:55 pm
LenoraBiemans (@BiemansLenora)
Love the ideas and the clever and artistic way you render them!
January 10, 2019 at 2:58 pm
Sue Heavenrich
Thanks, Steve, for the reminder to Stop! Look! Listen! I love the list-of-three-columns. Now all you need is a die-20 to cast your role for characters and settings.
January 10, 2019 at 3:00 pm
Ellen Sirianni
Great post! Love the cartoons.
January 10, 2019 at 3:04 pm
Anne Bromley
Thank you, Steve, for this most helpful post. I really like the three column lists as an idea-generator. I also appreciate your comments about editors as teammates. So true!
January 10, 2019 at 3:12 pm
Lucy Staugler
Steve, I stopped. I looked. I listened. I’m off on a writing adventure!
Thank you!
January 10, 2019 at 3:13 pm
Deb Sullivan
Love the column trick to get the juices flowing..thanks for sharing!
January 10, 2019 at 3:14 pm
Katie Williams
I can see how the three-column idea could generate some truly interesting scenarios. Going to try it right now! Thanks Steve!
January 10, 2019 at 3:15 pm
krbatti
I love the idea of finding inspiration in our observations and combining unrelated experiences together. Thanks for sharing! I loved seeing how your ideas translated into cartoons, too!
January 10, 2019 at 3:15 pm
Daryl Gottier
Timeless suggestions. Thanks again!
January 10, 2019 at 3:16 pm
chardixon47
Stop. Look. Listen. Love the tips and your art! Thank you, Steve 🙂
January 10, 2019 at 3:20 pm
karengreenwald2985
I love this post–and agree re classical music! The chart quite helpful. However, I am most impressed by your charity! That’s truly your best art form:) Thank you!
January 10, 2019 at 3:29 pm
Carol Gwin Nelson
Great suggestions for coming up with ideas! Persist is a great work to post on my computer.
January 10, 2019 at 3:35 pm
Cathy Ogren
I enjoyed reading your post, Steve. You have some great ideas!
January 10, 2019 at 3:43 pm
Bronte Colbert
Thank you, Steve. I love the cartoons, the “listen” advice, and the chart — especially the example of the cartoon that came out of it.
And I appreciate what you are doing for kids that are hospitalized. 🙂
January 10, 2019 at 3:47 pm
Kathryn Jean Hagen
I love the random grid idea (and your cartoons!). Thank you!
January 10, 2019 at 3:55 pm
hdening
Great suggestions! I love the three-column chart. Remarkable illustrations!
January 10, 2019 at 3:56 pm
Gail Hedrick
Super-interesting, and helpful. Thank you so much.
January 10, 2019 at 3:59 pm
lizricewrites
Thank you for sharing your chart idea with us!
January 10, 2019 at 4:00 pm
Monica Harris
I love visual humor and this was perfect for today! Thank you for sharing
January 10, 2019 at 4:13 pm
Melissa Stoller
Thanks for a great post! I love your chart and your cartoons!
January 10, 2019 at 4:15 pm
nataliecohn0258
He gave great ideas!
January 10, 2019 at 4:18 pm
Julie Mondi
Thank you for sharing your inspirations.
January 10, 2019 at 4:22 pm
Vicki Wilke
Thanks Steve. Great reminder to be “mindful!”
January 10, 2019 at 4:25 pm
readstuffnwrite
Thank you for the post. I definitely look at the world differently now that I write, anything could be an idea!
January 10, 2019 at 4:29 pm
Marcie Rinka Wessels
Love the chart idea! The combinations are practically endless. Thank you, Steve.
January 10, 2019 at 4:30 pm
ssafra22
That’s really interesting! I liked your analogy about the railroad crossing– stop, look and listen. Great advice!
January 10, 2019 at 4:31 pm
rachel
Appreciate the ideas. Thanks.☺
January 10, 2019 at 4:38 pm
angie9091
Thanks for a wonderful post!
January 10, 2019 at 4:39 pm
authoraileenstewart
Ideas come to me at the strangest times and places too. I really need to invest in a hands free recording device, lol.
January 10, 2019 at 4:43 pm
rgstones
Love the chart and the reminder to stop, look, and listen.
January 10, 2019 at 4:46 pm
Anjali Amit
Stop, look and listen: thanks for sharing your key to creativity.
January 10, 2019 at 4:51 pm
Susan Twiggs
So glad you republished this post. I will use the sheet to inject new combinations into my writing.
January 10, 2019 at 4:53 pm
Susan Twiggs
So glad you reposted this one. I’ll use Steve’s sheet to bolster nunlikely combinations.
January 10, 2019 at 4:54 pm
Anne Appert
Thanks for the reminder to stop and observe life! This is definitely an abundant source for inspiration. I will definitely be creating one of my own charts like this!
January 10, 2019 at 4:56 pm
Sherri Jones Rivers
What a fun and quirky outlook Steve has. I like his cartoons. The list looks like a good jumping off point for some new stories.
January 10, 2019 at 5:07 pm
Mary Warth
Thanks Steve! The stop, look and listen, technique is a great reminder to be intge moment.
January 10, 2019 at 5:08 pm
storyfairy
These are all good ideas for inspiration.
January 10, 2019 at 5:08 pm
CJ Penko
Loved learning about the similarities between coming up with ideas for books AND cartoons! Thank you!
January 10, 2019 at 5:11 pm
Cheryl Malandrinos
Great cartoons. Love your chart. Thanks for sharing.
January 10, 2019 at 5:20 pm
Rebecca Guzinski
Loving the chart idea! Love “Drawn to Help” even more!!!!!
January 10, 2019 at 5:24 pm
Manju B. Howard (@ManjuBeth)
Thanks for sharing your cartoons!
January 10, 2019 at 5:33 pm
Amy Houts
I like your funny cartoons and the suggestions for inspiration. Thanks!
January 10, 2019 at 5:41 pm
Jenifer McNamara
Enjoyed your post about – Stop, Look, and Listen for ideas for your PB’s
January 10, 2019 at 5:43 pm
Kath Carroll
Really love your idea of using a chart – going to give that a go!
January 10, 2019 at 5:53 pm
melissamiles1
I think observation is key. Sometimes you see and hear things you’d never have thought of on your own. 🙂
January 10, 2019 at 5:54 pm
SuZan Klassen
Good ideas and cute cartoons. Wonderful to hear what you’re doing for children.
January 10, 2019 at 5:58 pm
mlflannigan
Thank you for sharing!
January 10, 2019 at 6:01 pm
Jennifer
I love your serve and listen approach. I call that being present, and it’s a wonderful way to open ourselves to all the creative energy that is. Great post!
January 10, 2019 at 6:02 pm
LaurenKerstein
What a terrific post! I couldn’t agree more– my editor has been instrumental in helping me polish my debut until it shines! I love this line regarding listening to music: “I want all of the words that are rushing through my head to be my own.”
Thank you!
January 10, 2019 at 6:06 pm
Sensibility and Sense
Great post, Steve! Important reminder about being open to criticism and willing to change! Patti Richards
January 10, 2019 at 6:16 pm
martina.franklin.poole
So many good ideas here! I really enjoy hearing stories of well known writer/illustrators and their experiences.
January 10, 2019 at 6:17 pm
yangmommy
Love your work, and perhaps even more so, the fact that you offer cartoon classes to pediatric patients–that must be so soul-filling!
January 10, 2019 at 6:22 pm
Debbi G
Love your cartoons! Thanks for the ideas, inspiration, and volunteer work you do with children.
January 10, 2019 at 6:25 pm
Karin Larson
Thank you for the terrific and inspiring post. Persistence does pay. Your cartoons are wonderful.
January 10, 2019 at 6:30 pm
camillesp
Thank. you for this post. The information about “Where the Wild Things Are” was particularly interesting.
January 10, 2019 at 6:32 pm
Kellie
A really interesting post. I am learning not to be precious about my work – it’s hard to change something you’ve put your heart and soul into … but it’s a necessary evil. Thank you for your words and inspiration.
January 10, 2019 at 6:37 pm
Erika Henkart
Thanks! I love the cartoons and your creativity!
January 10, 2019 at 6:40 pm
cravevsworld
Thanks for sharing!
January 10, 2019 at 6:45 pm
sallie wolf
Like that dog, I too like to take long walks on the beach. Thanks for a fun post.
January 10, 2019 at 6:46 pm
Sandy Foster
What great ideas! Your Idea Chart is full of inspiration! Thank you.
January 10, 2019 at 6:48 pm
Jill
What a great perspective to navigate the editing process! This is why we have writing critique groups, so let it extend further when you have an agent or editor. Thanks!
January 10, 2019 at 6:48 pm
cath jones
Chart could throw up some interesting possibilities! Thanks for sharing
January 10, 2019 at 6:56 pm
Tamawi
Your suggestions are fab! I’ve never seen the 3 column list idea. I had just as much fun making the lists as trying different combinations.
January 10, 2019 at 6:57 pm
celticsea
I love your cartoons – especially the last “date one” with the dog. And thanks for the idea of making the columns. I think I will definitely use it!
January 10, 2019 at 6:57 pm
Nancy Riley
Listening is something I can work harder to improve, especially listening to how children talk to each other! Thanks!
January 10, 2019 at 6:58 pm
bookfish1
Steve I really enjoyed your cartoons, great ideas, funny stuff, thanks so much for sharing
January 10, 2019 at 7:00 pm
Pat Miller
Sendak and Where the Wild Horses Are? Good thing he listened to his editor. Thanks for the tips.
January 10, 2019 at 7:12 pm
Heather Stigall
Thanks for sharing your idea generator! I think it’s great that you think of your editor and agent as a team. You are so right that you are all working toward a common goal–to make the best book possible.
January 10, 2019 at 7:12 pm
Laurie Goodluck
Thank you for your brainstorming column idea. And I love sitting in airports observing people for ideas,
January 10, 2019 at 7:13 pm
Kaylynn Johnsen
I, too, like to observe. I often take photos of random things that catch my eye. 4 pennies in a plastic bubble from a gum ball machine or a turquoise tire swing, those things make me happy.
January 10, 2019 at 7:14 pm
Pam Miller
God bless you for sharing your talent within a non-profit that helps kids. I’ll be visiting B&N soon and will be sure to locate your books for my grandson.
January 10, 2019 at 7:22 pm
Moon Bishop
Day ten and I am already overjoyed at the ideas!
January 10, 2019 at 7:23 pm
Sharon Nix Jones
Thank you for the inspiration.
January 10, 2019 at 7:26 pm
Becky Scharnhorst
I plan on trying the three column technique tonight. Thanks for the idea and the inspiration!
January 10, 2019 at 7:26 pm
mbhmaine
The three-column chart is a great strategy! I so enjoyed this post and your cartoons. Thanks!
January 10, 2019 at 7:35 pm
saputnam
Great post, Steve! I remember your three columns idea from PiBoIdMo. Thank you for reminding us to Stop! Look! And Listen!!
January 10, 2019 at 7:35 pm
Erik Ammon
Listening can be so interesting- observing, too! Especially working in an elementary school. Thanks!
January 10, 2019 at 7:37 pm
kimgjolly
Love the post!
January 10, 2019 at 7:41 pm
Caren Cantrell
So glad to see this post come back. When I first read it way back when, it stuck with me that Where the Wild Things Are was originally about horses and I’ve told lots of my writer friends this story. I’ve used the three columns quite a bit too.
January 10, 2019 at 7:52 pm
Lori Mozdzierz
What a wonderful thing you’re doing for the kiddos!
January 10, 2019 at 8:04 pm
Cheryl Johnson
I find ideas just popping into my head as well! When I’m writing, it’s best to listen to instrumental music – usually classical music for studying that I play for my students. I’d love to have a room called a studio ~ is that something solely for someone who can illustrate (as well as write) or do writers also use that term?
January 10, 2019 at 8:08 pm
Suzanne Lieurance
I love the chart idea. By combining things from each column that you wouldn’t normally combine, you’re bound to come up with something funny, weird, or otherwise inspiring. Thanks for the tip!
January 10, 2019 at 8:33 pm
mona861
Mix them up, mix them up, mix them up!! Ideas are already flowing! Thank you.
January 10, 2019 at 8:35 pm
Linda Mitchell
I’m in love with the railroad crossing metaphor. Wonderful post…you make this reader feel like all is possible.
January 10, 2019 at 8:39 pm
James Arthur
A great reminder to slow down and listen. Always BEE on the look out
January 10, 2019 at 8:42 pm
jeanjames926
This is an excellent with post with so much inspiration. I especially love your Draw to Help program!
January 10, 2019 at 8:50 pm
Roz Malin
Persist and persist again. It works!
January 10, 2019 at 8:55 pm
Arlene Schenker
Steve, I love your idea of the chart with three columns. Thanks so much!
January 10, 2019 at 8:56 pm
deniseaengle
I love this post!!!
January 10, 2019 at 9:00 pm
Nancy Ramsey
Thanks for your inspiration! Great post!
January 10, 2019 at 9:01 pm
Natalie Lynn Tanner
STEVE: This is an AMAZING post I will be referring back to again and again. THANK YOU for the inspiration on SO MANY things. I especially appreciate the technique you use to fight “writer’s block.” NO MORE EXCUSES, HERE!!! I am SO INSPIRED and TOUCHED by your WONDERFUL and WONDEROUS organization “Drawn To Help.” You do SUCH IMPORTANT work!!! THANK YOU for sharing and for inspiring!!!
January 10, 2019 at 9:06 pm
Nadine Poper
Great comparison with the railroad crossing. I need to Stop, Look, and Listen more so I can stop feeling like my writing is a train wreck. LOL! Thank you Steve.
January 10, 2019 at 9:19 pm
Johna Nicole Rossetti
What a great brainstorming read. I ♡ the chart idea! Thank you.
January 10, 2019 at 9:41 pm
Naomi Gruer
Great brainstorming ideas! Thanks.
January 10, 2019 at 9:47 pm
carol w Munro
Tuck the idea away for another day and start on another. That’s what StoryStorm is all about, isn’t it? To have a list of opportunities waiting for their time.
January 10, 2019 at 9:48 pm
Bethanny Parker
Great idea. I like what you did with the woman and dog in the restaurant.
January 10, 2019 at 9:55 pm
DaNeil Olson
Wonderful post. Thank you.
January 10, 2019 at 10:02 pm
8catpaws
3-column chart–one of the best prompts ever! Love the lady-dog date cartoon!
January 10, 2019 at 10:02 pm
Carmela McCain Simmons
“Persist..over…and over…and over…and over…” I am going to put this quote on my inspiration board. Thanks so much!
January 10, 2019 at 10:04 pm
denarose
Thanks for this post! I love the idea of a chart with columns for main character, setting, and supporting character. I’m going to use that to help me with ideas! Thanks!
January 10, 2019 at 10:05 pm
writeremmcbride
Steve, this is a very helpful and informative post. I love what you are doing with your donation of time, teaching, and caring for kids needing help and encouragement. Thank you so much for sharing your ideas and wisdom.
January 10, 2019 at 10:08 pm
Latasha Vernon
You’re very gifted! The cartoon drawings were hilarious and I enjoyed your tool to help spark creativity when it doesn’t just pop up in your head.
January 10, 2019 at 10:13 pm
Therese Kay
Thanks for the great ideas!
January 10, 2019 at 10:15 pm
teresa.mi.schaefer
Love the idea of Drawn to Help. Looking forward to checking it out.
January 10, 2019 at 10:20 pm
Heather Gallagher
What a generous soul! Thanks for this 😀
January 10, 2019 at 10:32 pm
Hank Dallago
Steve hit on so many areas that resonated with me. Having your own words rushing though your head. Once you’ve created a cast, give them their lines and put them in the right surroundings. And to be open to constructive criticism from an editor or agent to provide inspiration behind the scenes of your story. Incredible! Thank you so much.
January 10, 2019 at 10:39 pm
stephanie williams
great comics!
January 10, 2019 at 10:55 pm
Bettie Boswell
I love your chart for sparking ideas. Yes, we need to observe and listen.
January 10, 2019 at 11:01 pm
Lucretia
Thanks for the reminder about this brainstorming technique. I think the ‘Stop, Look, Listen’ mantra is a great tool for staying receptive to inspiration when enjoying the outdoors!
January 10, 2019 at 11:09 pm
Karan Greene
Thanks for sharing! This is very encouraging!
January 10, 2019 at 11:11 pm
Deb Huard, Writer
I really loved reading this post. So many great tips. Thank you.
January 10, 2019 at 11:12 pm
Deb Cushman
Some idea gold here! Thanks for the suggestions.
January 10, 2019 at 11:26 pm
lorisherritt
Thank you! Love the writing/cartooning inspiration tool!
January 10, 2019 at 11:36 pm
Dani Duck
Love this idea. I need to come up with a chart of my own. It would be a lot of fun just to make the chart and I can see generating a lot of ideas from it!
January 10, 2019 at 11:38 pm
Frances Kalavritinos
If I didn’t write children’s stories, I would want to illustrate them. How wonderful that you can do both, with so much humor too!
January 10, 2019 at 11:46 pm
Kristin Wauson
Love this exercise and I think more people need to read your advice on receiving feedback.
January 10, 2019 at 11:50 pm
Kelly Ohlert
Awesome tips! I used a column chart when I was working on some ideas for my novel WIP. Didnt end up using them but it definitely helped get the creativity wheels turning!
January 11, 2019 at 12:00 am
Rebekah Lowell
Great post! Having an open mind, and heart (and eyes and ears) are all key in this business!
January 11, 2019 at 12:02 am
DB Cote
I liked your suggestion to “take a sheet of notebook paper and divide it into columns [main characters, setting and supporting characters].” Thank you.
January 11, 2019 at 12:19 am
Cathy Pledger
I needed to be reminded to listen and look @ what is going on around me. Great post, and I love your cartoons
January 11, 2019 at 12:19 am
Ashley Bankhead
This post was wonderful! I feel like I learned so much! I like the idea to stop, look, and listen. Inspiration and ideas are everywhere. We just have to take the time to find them.
January 11, 2019 at 12:28 am
Amy Newbold
I love the chart. Great tip…thanks for sharing it.
January 11, 2019 at 12:32 am
Amanda Malek-Ahmadi
What a great post! I’ve written the chart in my book.
January 11, 2019 at 12:32 am
Nicole Vuong
Advice from an agent, editor etc. is like treasure!
January 11, 2019 at 12:56 am
Christine Pinto
I love the column idea for mashing ideas together. thanks!
January 11, 2019 at 1:06 am
Trine Grillo
Thank you for the chart idea. I will definitely implement this!
January 11, 2019 at 1:09 am
kmajor2013
I enjoyed your post, Steve. I have been working on being more observant of my surroundings in hopes of generating new ideas. Thanks.
January 11, 2019 at 1:18 am
fireurchin
Thanks for the chart idea! I’ve used something similar, but it did not include supporting characters. Just trying this twist is already setting my mind to new ideas again.
January 11, 2019 at 1:20 am
Kaye Baillie
I gotta make me a list. It’s so cool.
January 11, 2019 at 1:53 am
Aimee
What a fun post! I also love your organization Drawn to Help☺️
January 11, 2019 at 1:54 am
rjtraxel
This post made me chuckle. Your non-profit sounds wonderful!
January 11, 2019 at 2:02 am
Nadia Salomon (@Nadia_Salomon)
I truly enjoyed your post. I feel like my idea style is like you. So many to control or wrangle in. I LOVE your idea of the three column chart. I have some charting to do later! Thank you so much for your insight.
January 11, 2019 at 2:15 am
Brenda Miller
I really appreciated the idea of Stop. Look. And listen. So much of the creative process seems to be about paying attention deeply.
January 11, 2019 at 2:31 am
Carmen White
Loved this mash-up list andnd came up with kind of a weird awkward story that doesn’t want to be a picture book. Haha.
January 11, 2019 at 2:32 am
Keila Dawson
Good tips on paying attention. And so true, editors have a way of helping authors clarify their thoughts and helps us choose the right words.
January 11, 2019 at 2:51 am
Marcia Berneger
I love the advice, and the comics!
January 11, 2019 at 6:31 am
Angela De Groot
Great suggestions, especially about being open to constructive criticism.
January 11, 2019 at 7:05 am
Linda Hofke
Great advice. Thanks!
January 11, 2019 at 7:13 am
authoryvonafast
Thank you for reminding us that “Inspiration is all around us, and we just need to learn how to harness it in our own way.” And thank you for the idea of the chart and reminding us that sometimes we need to pick ourselves up, dust ourselves off and keep moving forward.
January 11, 2019 at 7:18 am
Margaret Flint Suter
amazing how the pictures you create for the words are interpreted by my imagination so differently! Loved to see the variety! Thanks!
January 11, 2019 at 7:22 am
Sharron Magyar
Liked the charting idea and loved the Maurice Sendak Story.
January 11, 2019 at 7:39 am
Catherine Ward
this is such great advice, both in terms of a way of generating story ideas and on how to the make the best of your relationship with the publishing team…thank you for the insight.
January 11, 2019 at 8:48 am
Giselle
Masterful, witty and full of heart, well done sir for sounding like the Mozart of the Monster world!
January 11, 2019 at 8:59 am
SARAH Meade
Thanks for the post!
January 11, 2019 at 9:01 am
Mardi Edwards
Thank you for the chart ideas.
January 11, 2019 at 9:04 am
megcason1
Love all these inspiration!!
Thank you for this post.
January 11, 2019 at 9:33 am
Matt Forrest Esenwine
I, too, am rarely sure of where the inspiration comes from, but i do know that walking away from it for a little while and coming back with fresh eyes and afresh brain nearly always helps!
January 11, 2019 at 9:36 am
Sarah Maynard (@SarahDMaynard)
“Cartoonists, like authors, are doing the same thing as a movie director. They created a cast, give them their lines and put them in the right surroundings.” Yes! This spoke to me perfectly! Thank you!
January 11, 2019 at 10:06 am
Clare Juliet Clare Bell
Thank you. I love your way of generating ideas. I’ve recently bought a children’s game called ‘Randomise’ which does something really similar and can be used a good prompt for coming up with ideas (for children and adults).
January 11, 2019 at 10:15 am
Nicole Turner
Thank you so much for your post.
January 11, 2019 at 10:21 am
Robin Robb-Kraus
Thank you Steve! I just realized that I have purchased some of your books for my elementary school’s media center! I always have a drawing table available with books and the step by step approach is so easy for students! Sometimes I sit down with them to draw too– they love the monsters and aliens! Thank you!
January 11, 2019 at 10:21 am
Francoise
Thanks for your idea generating advice — and well done, sounds like you are doing some invaluable work with young people.
January 11, 2019 at 10:26 am
Emily
I love the chart you shared, Steve! Thanks for sharing your brainstorming process.
January 11, 2019 at 10:34 am
Ellen Leventhal
Thanks for a great post! I love the chart!
January 11, 2019 at 10:45 am
Jacqueline Adams
Wow, so many gems in this one! Thank you, Steve!
January 11, 2019 at 10:58 am
Katie Engen
Knowing when to listen to music with or without words really may be at the crux of it all (at least for me). And thank goodness Sendak couldn’t draw horses (only 7th grade girls can, I’m pretty sure…)
January 11, 2019 at 11:23 am
nrompella
I burst out laughing at your mail-way-your husband cartoon. I’m excited to try out my own chart.
January 11, 2019 at 11:28 am
Barbara Senenman
Great post! I need to let my batteries recharge. Hopefully,I’ll be energized with new ideas.
January 11, 2019 at 11:38 am
Susan Schade
I love the “idea chart.” Can’t wait to try that exercise. Thank you!
January 11, 2019 at 11:40 am
Monica Stoltzfus
Steve,
Thank you for these ideas! Love your cartoons!
January 11, 2019 at 11:47 am
pjaegly
Steve: What a wonderful post! I appreciate your ideas and I love that you created “Drawn to Help” – what a beautiful way to share your gift with pediatric patients!
January 11, 2019 at 11:47 am
Kay Phillips
I really enjoy your drawings and love what you have done to aid healing in children. Great work to do!
January 11, 2019 at 11:51 am
Leslie Leibhardt Goodman - Writer
Time to stop staring at blank walls for ideas and start watching people and listening to their conversations (discreetly). Many, many thanks.
January 11, 2019 at 11:59 am
connievanhorn2658
Thank you! Truly inspiring!
January 11, 2019 at 12:11 pm
Rebecca Colby
I have a 3 drawer box with slips of paper in it that functions the same as your chart. It’s a great way to get the juices flowing again. Thanks for the inspiration!
January 11, 2019 at 12:24 pm
Rebecca Van Slyke
That chart is a great idea!
On another note, your 1, 2, 3 Draw! books are falling apart in my classroom. My second graders LOVE them!
January 11, 2019 at 12:31 pm
Susan Macartney
Steve – liked the railroad track analogy – wonderful inspiration or trainwreck, indeed!:) and really appreciated your tips and reminder to Stop-Look-Listen(!) to that great big world around us – thanks!
January 11, 2019 at 12:36 pm
bgonsar
Loved reading this post again. Thanks Steve!
January 11, 2019 at 12:45 pm
KRISTINA CASTILLO
Off to make my chart! Thanks!
January 11, 2019 at 12:46 pm
Lori Alexander
Great post! Love revisiting your 3-column list. Such a fun story starter!
January 11, 2019 at 12:55 pm
Jennifer Hunt
I love hearing where ideas come from and how they end up merged together-so fascinating!
January 11, 2019 at 12:56 pm
marsha e wright
“Stop, Look, and Listen” is a valuable mantra to remember from kindergarten. Thanks, Steve, for reminding us. Next time I run smack into a Writers’ Wall, I’ll create a chart as suggested. That way, I’ll end up with a resource for future stories. And if I’m still blocked, then I’ll do as you do–live a little beyond the keyboard. Best to you in your talented process!
January 11, 2019 at 1:02 pm
shanah salter
great post, love the blind list circling!
January 11, 2019 at 1:45 pm
marty
Terrific advice and I love your non-profit idea!
January 11, 2019 at 1:47 pm
Jennifer
Think you got all the great suggestions! Love the columns idea.
January 11, 2019 at 1:49 pm
Jennifer
That should say “thank you for”! Oh iPhone…
January 11, 2019 at 1:58 pm
kathydoherty1
I agree with being persistent. I never give up.
January 11, 2019 at 2:29 pm
Suzanne Alexander
Thanks for sharing your wonderful cartoons – and your inspirational column chart, Steve.
January 11, 2019 at 2:50 pm
Juliana Jones
I love the idea of the chart with 3 columns, brainstorming ways to fill it, then blindly circling something to write about. Thanks!
January 11, 2019 at 2:54 pm
aidantalkin
Thanks… but now must run… I’ve got some columns to fill!
January 11, 2019 at 2:57 pm
laura516
Stop, look, and listen! Got it!
January 11, 2019 at 3:06 pm
Maria Bostian
Made my chart and I’m filling it in. Settings are coming easier than suggestions today, but im going to fill it in! Thanks for the idea!
January 11, 2019 at 3:36 pm
Tracey Brown
Thanks for sharing your cartoons – they are fantastic! “Persist. Over…..and over….and over…and over.” Thanks for the inspiration
January 11, 2019 at 3:58 pm
Kim Wilson (@AuthorKimWilson)
Great post – thanks for the inspiration!
January 11, 2019 at 4:53 pm
Sherrilynn Scott
Love the 4 column idea! I’m not an illustrator, even though I love to draw, but I agree that the idea could work perfectly fine for writers too.
January 11, 2019 at 4:59 pm
Carolyn Currier
Thank you for sharing your ideas now we are ready to write and cross the street safely!
January 11, 2019 at 5:29 pm
Teresa Robeson
It’s so true you have to persist and consider your editor your best friend in your book journey!
January 11, 2019 at 5:41 pm
Ana Crespo
I love the idea of the chart. Can’t wait to try it and see where it takes my stories. Thanks!
January 11, 2019 at 5:46 pm
photojaq
Charts are good. Blindfolded choosing is scary. Putting it all together is fun!
January 11, 2019 at 6:58 pm
Elizabeth W Saba
Steve, very funny and very helpful! Thank you.
January 11, 2019 at 7:09 pm
jaclynsmiller
Thanks for the chart idea!
January 11, 2019 at 7:45 pm
kjerstenhayes
Even brainstorming the lists for the chart seem like it might inspire ideas. Thanks!
January 11, 2019 at 8:16 pm
Sue Frye
Love the chart!
January 11, 2019 at 8:24 pm
Annie Cronin Romano
Great post!!!
January 11, 2019 at 8:41 pm
Rick Starkey
I enjoy the Posts of Story Storm Past. It reminds me that writing techniques are evergreen. As great today as in the past.
January 11, 2019 at 10:14 pm
Vicky Howard
I love the idea of the chart when you have writer’s block or the well of ideas just seems dry.
January 11, 2019 at 10:14 pm
Meghan Burch
Excited to generate my some lists and see where they take me. Also going to try more silence in my car. Thanks!
January 11, 2019 at 10:33 pm
Christine Irvin
Thanks for resharing this post!
January 11, 2019 at 10:53 pm
M Lapointe Malchik (@imartytweet)
Stop, look, and listen. I’m going to take the time to do this from now on. I love that you included your cartoons in your post. Thanks, Steve.
January 12, 2019 at 12:03 am
Chelle Martin
I love people watching and also watching animals. Your drawings are cute. I love the idea of the woman, dog, and restaurant. That exercise is a good way of putting things into a situation and coming up with a clever story or cartoon.
January 12, 2019 at 12:08 am
Leah Coleman
I love the chart idea! Thanks for re-incorporating this into the 2019 Storystorm!
January 12, 2019 at 12:36 am
Emily Wayne (@heyemilywayne)
Love the chart idea!
January 12, 2019 at 1:13 am
Julia Dworschack
Thx for the word associations trick!!
January 12, 2019 at 1:14 am
Sandy Perlic
Very useful advice, and I especially like gleaning ideas from random pairings from a chart. Also loved the cartoons! Thanks for a great re-post.
January 12, 2019 at 1:46 am
Cindy E. Owens
Great post. I love the cartoons.
January 12, 2019 at 3:21 am
Alexandra Hinrichs
Great suggestions, and I love your reminder to listen to editors, too. They can be a tremendous source of inspiration! Thank you for sharing.
January 12, 2019 at 4:02 am
claireannette1
Thanks for the reminder to observe and listen. Great post!
January 12, 2019 at 4:06 am
Suzanne Poulter Harris
Great tips here – be observant, be open to editorial input and when you’re stuck, make a chart!
January 12, 2019 at 8:31 am
Midge Ballou Smith
Great post! Thank you!
January 12, 2019 at 8:41 am
Meilssa Chupp
Love the back up plan!
January 12, 2019 at 9:07 am
Carolyn Lucas
Thank you. Your movie director reference really resonated with me. And, thank you for Drawn to Help.
January 12, 2019 at 9:32 am
Shelly Wilson
Wow! So much for me to use here. Thank you for sharing your strategies and tips.
January 12, 2019 at 10:03 am
tanyakonerman
I like this chart idea…looks like a fun way to brainstorm!
January 12, 2019 at 10:09 am
Rani Iyer
Love the chart! Thanks for sharing!
January 12, 2019 at 10:16 am
Sara Fajardo
I can’t wait to play with this tool. Even if it doesn’t bear fruit it just seems like a whole lot of fun.
January 12, 2019 at 10:36 am
Lucky Jo Boscarino
Ah, The Chart! It works! So there’s this raccoon standing on a street corner…
January 12, 2019 at 11:28 am
Kathleen Cornell-Berman
Thanks Steve for sharing your journey, cartoons and strategies for finding ideas. Very helpful.
January 12, 2019 at 11:52 am
Maritza M. Mejía
Good point of view! Thank you, Steve!
January 12, 2019 at 12:25 pm
Cynthia Harmony
Cool post thanks!
January 12, 2019 at 12:46 pm
debbiemccue
Your chart is a wonderful idea for getting past writer’s block. Thanks for sharing.
January 12, 2019 at 3:01 pm
Zoraida Rivera
Great exercise and advice. Teamwork has been a blessing in my career as a teacher and counselor.
January 12, 2019 at 3:08 pm
Anna Brooks
Stop, look, and listen…Seems so obvious for writers, but it’s always such a necessary reminder. Thank you!!
January 12, 2019 at 5:10 pm
saralakron
Take home messages, look carefully and the chart! Thanks.
January 12, 2019 at 5:22 pm
Melissa Mwai
I think that chart is super handy.
January 12, 2019 at 6:56 pm
Kathy O'Neill
I like the chart idea ! Thanks!
January 12, 2019 at 7:37 pm
Janet Halfmann
Love the idea-generating chart. Thanks!
January 12, 2019 at 8:35 pm
Janet Smart
Great post,Steve. I like the idea of the chart.
January 12, 2019 at 10:29 pm
Buffy Silverman
Nice chart–great start for brainstorming!
January 12, 2019 at 10:40 pm
Anna Levin
Very inspiring and helpful post. Thank you Steve!
January 12, 2019 at 11:43 pm
Stephanie Lau
Ah, thanks for sharing your technique.
January 13, 2019 at 12:15 am
Erin Le Clerc
I love your cartoons! Thank you for sharing – I really like the unusual pairings idea 🙂
January 13, 2019 at 6:43 am
Freda Lewkowicz
Thank you for the inspiration and the chart!
January 13, 2019 at 7:02 am
Mel Copeman
I enjoy people watching! I’ll have to keep my ears ready now too. L
January 13, 2019 at 7:42 am
Jennifer Broedel (@JBroedelAuthor)
Thanks for the tips- that idea chart is always fun. When you’re stuck, it’s a sure-fire way to produce something!
January 13, 2019 at 9:30 am
Chrisynthia Casper
Thank you for the word list idea.
January 13, 2019 at 10:13 am
Lynne Marie
Steve Barr is a fam favorite. We have many of his books. Thanks so much for the tips. The word list has been a tried and true method of mine for years! Keep up the good work.
January 13, 2019 at 11:50 am
Wendy Greenley
This post jogged my memory of something I had seen recently–will it be a picture book? Not sure–but thanks for getting my brain moving!
January 13, 2019 at 1:37 pm
Barb Ostapina
Glad I stopped, looked, and listened, Steve! Thank you
January 13, 2019 at 2:08 pm
KATHY Z.PRICE
Thanks for sharing Steve!
January 13, 2019 at 2:11 pm
junesmalls
All my writing music has no words too! I get distracted when trying to create and I need to listen to my imagination rather than starting to sing along with the music.
January 13, 2019 at 2:39 pm
Susan Nicholas Korstanje
Thanks for the reminder to slow down and observe what’s around us.
January 13, 2019 at 2:41 pm
Michelle Sumovich
Thank you! I really enjoyed your perspective on openness, particularly openness to collaboration in author-editor relationships. I look forward to that opportunity! Also– Drawn to Help looks incredible! What an amazing service.
January 13, 2019 at 3:47 pm
Lisa Murphy
A man after my own heart! I am definitely a stop look and listen writer! The notes section of my phone is laced with impromptu inspirations from being out in the world!
Thanks so much 🙂
January 13, 2019 at 4:38 pm
Shereen S.
“I think my wife is trying to get rid of me.” Ya think?! That cartoon made me laugh. I will try out the 3 column chart!
January 13, 2019 at 4:42 pm
Steve Schwartz
Persist. Over….and over….and over….and over. Love it!
January 13, 2019 at 5:20 pm
Heather Kelso
Thank you for the great tips!
I’m gonna start a chart now.
January 13, 2019 at 5:26 pm
aliciaminor
True. Pay attention to what your mentor/editor are telling you/us because in the end, you’ll be thankful that they did and you listened. More power to you.
January 13, 2019 at 6:29 pm
jenfierjasinski
Great ideas and examples, as well as the encouragement to just keep chugging along. Also for the encouragement to accept criticism!
January 13, 2019 at 7:23 pm
Susanne Whitehouse
Drawn to Help sounds amazing! Glad it’s taking off. Thanks for the great advice!
January 13, 2019 at 7:31 pm
Rona Shirdan
I like your chart for generating ideas!
January 13, 2019 at 9:06 pm
ryanrobertsauthor
I love listening in on conversations. And I love the “persist. over… and over… and over….” Thanks!
January 13, 2019 at 10:01 pm
Michelle O'Hara Levin
I also like long walks on the beach… universal? Thanks for the tips.
January 13, 2019 at 11:15 pm
Vicky Ford
What an absolutely inspiring post. Hit the mark with me on so many points….being persistent, getting story ideas in a fun way, seeing the world thru different eyes.
January 14, 2019 at 12:02 am
susanzonca
I love the idea of creating the chart, an easy and unemotional start when I’m lacking inspirations.
January 14, 2019 at 2:14 am
Michelle Kashinsky
Loved the comics! Thanks for sharing your insights!
January 14, 2019 at 2:30 am
Jilanne Hoffmann
Love the cartoons here. Humor seems to happen when a left turn comes out of nowhere. I love it! And I love your character-setting-supporting character list idea generator. Thanks!
January 14, 2019 at 7:28 am
Brittanny Handiboe
Created this list…miiiiiight have gotten a few ideas. Don’t know if they’re good yet haha.
January 14, 2019 at 11:14 am
tanjabauerle
Stop! Look! And Listen! Takes me back to my childhood. I love it. Thank you for a great post.
January 14, 2019 at 11:16 am
writeforapples1
This is great! Thank you!
January 14, 2019 at 12:49 pm
Laurel Ranveig Abell
Observe & Listen! People watching is my favorite. Thanks for the post. Great cartoons!!!
January 14, 2019 at 1:26 pm
Margie Markarian
Fun ideas! Clever stuff!
January 14, 2019 at 2:43 pm
Mary Ann Cortez
Thanks for sharing your process with us. Im a people watcher too.
January 14, 2019 at 3:17 pm
Patricia Toht
I agree with the suggestion to talk to your editor. One of my stores came from my editor’s comment that they had a hole in their list for a certain type of book. This works for those of us with editors, but if you don’t have one,I wonder about asking librarians or teachers some questions. It can’t hurt!
January 14, 2019 at 6:57 pm
Sarah Momo Romero
Great suggestion for mixing main character, setting and supporting characters to create new ideas!
January 14, 2019 at 7:39 pm
Dawn
Persist! Great post.
January 14, 2019 at 10:24 pm
Elizabeth C Steiner
I really enjoyed your idea for REALLY listening and observing but I also find it great that you emphasized accepting critique! Thank you, I think its good to think of others (editors) as team players.
January 15, 2019 at 12:37 am
storycatcherpublishing
I love, love, love your story idea list (planning on stealing it for myself) and I’m working to improve my sketching so I really enjoyed this post!
January 15, 2019 at 5:06 am
Nancy Kotkin (@Brave_New_Words)
Super helpful chart idea. I’m definitely going to try it. Love your cartoons!
January 15, 2019 at 8:34 am
Kimberly
Great advice, thanks!!
January 15, 2019 at 9:34 am
narmo2400
Steve Barr represents the best of the kid lit community. His devotion to creating a program for kids in hospitals is outstanding.
January 15, 2019 at 9:55 am
Anita
Thank you for the advice!
January 15, 2019 at 11:55 am
Sara Pistulka Weingartner
Thank you Steve! The 3 column exercise is fantastic and your list is a reminder to dig deeper with in my own lists.
January 15, 2019 at 12:52 pm
Sarah John
Great ideas! I’m going to try the word chart technique!
January 15, 2019 at 1:22 pm
Judy Cooper
Love the cartoons. SO funny!
January 15, 2019 at 2:31 pm
Helen
The chart idea is wonderful and I appreciate the advice about editors.
January 15, 2019 at 2:46 pm
Lynn Alpert
I remember this post and still sometimes use this technique.
January 15, 2019 at 3:54 pm
Ms. Schubé
Thank you for your suggestions!
January 15, 2019 at 11:04 pm
Andrew Lefebvre
I like the columns idea to get thoughts rolling. Thanks
January 16, 2019 at 12:50 am
Dea Brayden
Thank you Steve. Just this inspiration I need for today. And I think “Drawn to help” is brilliant. Wishing you much success.
January 16, 2019 at 2:52 pm
Brooke Hollon
Thank you for sharing your cartoons – so funny! I love reading about how you come up with humorous concepts, just by using bits of conversation you hear on a daily basis.
January 16, 2019 at 4:29 pm
Joannie Duris
Thanks, Steve. Love your cartoons and the brainstorming chart. But I especially appreciate that you’re giving back to the community through Drawn to Help. Kids in hospitals rarely have something to smile about.
January 16, 2019 at 4:47 pm
Julie Rand
I like long walks on the beach too. Lol Thanks for the thoughts.
January 16, 2019 at 5:36 pm
Poupette Smith
Thanks. I’ll give your chart idea a whirl.
January 16, 2019 at 7:53 pm
Terri Sabol
The word list columns is a great idea. Thanks!
January 17, 2019 at 1:23 am
Shawna J Tenney
Great ideas to get my brain going. Thank you!
January 17, 2019 at 9:43 am
Tiffany Painter
Sometimes when I am out running or walking, I leave my headphones at home so I can create my own words. I agree that it is easy to lose your own voice when you are always listening to other’s
January 17, 2019 at 12:05 pm
andromeda515
I’ll be using the creative chart. It’s like having a prompt mine.
January 17, 2019 at 7:43 pm
Lydia Lukidis
Isn’t it amazing??
January 17, 2019 at 7:43 pm
Lydia Lukidis
I LOVE the photo with words randomly put together. That is the essence behind fresh, original writing!
January 17, 2019 at 7:45 pm
Janet Frenck Sheets
Just putting the chart together would probably help spark some ideas. Thanks!
January 17, 2019 at 10:33 pm
Laurie Bouck
Thanks for the great post! I love the list idea for when I need inspiration!
January 18, 2019 at 3:31 pm
Megan Walvoord (@mjwalvoord2)
Love the chart idea!
January 18, 2019 at 4:23 pm
imagination4lf
Thank you for sharing. I never knew that about Where The Wild Things Are! Can’t wait to make my list.
January 19, 2019 at 12:28 pm
topangamaria
Drawn to Help = wow
January 19, 2019 at 5:12 pm
Cassie Bentley
Thank you Steve. The columns for getting unstuck look wonderful and fun.
January 19, 2019 at 10:47 pm
Jill M Proctor
Great post, Steve. Love all your great ideas – especially the chart. Can’t wait to give it a try!
January 20, 2019 at 11:53 am
cantsing1
Oh, yeah! Stop. Look. And listen!
January 20, 2019 at 2:18 pm
Dianne
I’m already getting ideas. Thank you! Love your drawings.
January 20, 2019 at 2:27 pm
dlapmandi
Stop, look and listen great ideas and a type of exercise to use for eavesdropping and being extremely observant. Thanks for the post.
January 20, 2019 at 4:32 pm
Carolyn Kraft
Thank you Steve for all the great ideas and inspiration!
January 20, 2019 at 11:02 pm
Danielle Hicks
So many great ideas here. I love the chart exercise! “Persist. Over…..and over….and over…and over.” This quote is brilliant. Thank you!
January 21, 2019 at 1:09 am
Angela H. Dale
Love those mix and match columns. And your “Drawn to Help” efforts – very cool. Thank you.
January 21, 2019 at 4:55 pm
Hillary Homzie
Really cool story about Sendak!
January 21, 2019 at 5:58 pm
Janine Johns
Thank you for some great ideas! I love your cartoons.
January 21, 2019 at 10:38 pm
Charlene Avery
Inspiring on so many levels. 7 y/o who sold work. Drawn to Help. Sharing joy. Glad to hear someone else stares but not at what people think.
kid lit community is wonderful. 🙂
January 22, 2019 at 3:13 am
thedandelionzoo
Thank you for the great chart inspiration!
January 22, 2019 at 9:25 am
Christine Fleming McIsaac
Thanks for inspiration and tidbit on Where the Wild Things Are!
January 22, 2019 at 6:01 pm
Paula VanEnkevort
Great strategy to create a chart to help with ideas. Thank you!
January 23, 2019 at 1:52 am
sharongiltrow
Thanks Steve what great ideas :-).
January 23, 2019 at 11:40 am
Lauri Meyers
Steve’s post is still hilarious!
January 23, 2019 at 7:39 pm
Amanda Davis
Stop. Look. Listen! Yes!! Thank you, Steve!
January 23, 2019 at 8:00 pm
Lou
I’m going to try the chart tonight, perhaps with randomly assigned numbers so I can come up with some unplanned combinations. Thanks!
January 23, 2019 at 10:56 pm
Faith
Thanks, Steve. I appreciate your honesty and the reminder of the importance of viewing editors as team members!
January 24, 2019 at 9:13 pm
annettepimentel
” I really want to hear what they have to say. Their problems, their frustrations and the things that make them laugh. Because, after all, any of those conversations can be the foundation of an idea for a book or a cartoon”: this made me laught out loud. I, too, often see other people as unwitting sources for my work.
January 25, 2019 at 3:33 pm
Carolyne Ruck
Love the idea of creating the three column list of words as a source of inspiration! Also think the dog liking to take long walks on the beach is a perfect pun!
January 25, 2019 at 10:57 pm
Dana Atnip
I love your cartoons, Steve (fellow cartoonist, yay!) ! Thank you for sharing your stories and your process!
January 26, 2019 at 9:34 am
Shel ledrew
Thank you.
January 26, 2019 at 10:18 pm
Robyn Campbell
I want to think I remember this, Tara. Love it. Fantastic art and I love learning other author’s processes.
January 27, 2019 at 5:14 pm
Joyce
Love your cartoons and the three column idea. Thanks.
January 27, 2019 at 7:34 pm
Maria J Cuesta
Love the idea of the lists. Thank you!
January 27, 2019 at 7:57 pm
Jim Chaize
A wide range of helpful ideas in this post. Thanks, Steve.
January 28, 2019 at 3:05 pm
Sharalyn Edgeberg
I really enjoyed your suggestions, especially the lists idea. I also had no idea about the title for Where The Wild Things Are, and certainly listening to criticism to improve is beneficial. Thanks again.
January 29, 2019 at 1:22 pm
Marie Powell
Great ideas — and this chart with randomized choices is so much fun! Thanks!
January 29, 2019 at 1:31 pm
hannahtuohyillustration
Thank you for the great post! I really enjoy the idea of approaching picture books like a filmmaker. And your idea generator list is so fun!
January 30, 2019 at 5:49 pm
Kelly Rice Schmitt
I love your pediatric patient work — and how your ideas are approachable for both authors and illustrators. The Idea generator list is fun.. you have a great list of starting points.
January 31, 2019 at 2:09 am
Jocelyn Rish
I really like the three columns of words idea and am going to give it a whirl!
January 31, 2019 at 8:18 pm
higherthanrubies
Love the advice. Thanks! I write the books, but I love to draw (for myself and my students)
January 31, 2019 at 10:56 pm
denitajohnson
Thanks for all the advice.
February 1, 2019 at 12:38 am
aturner513
Great post! Thank you for the encouraging words.
February 3, 2019 at 10:21 am
Sheri Dillard
Great post! Love the chart idea! (and the dog cartoon, too! 🙂
February 3, 2019 at 2:58 pm
Johna Nicole Rossetti
Great suggestions. I love the chart. And the quote is very much inspirational: Persist. Over and over and over and over. 🙂
February 4, 2019 at 4:54 pm
loelmu
I love the columnar approach. I did that this year!
February 17, 2019 at 11:11 pm
Janet AlJunaidi
Thank you Steve! I like your chart and thank you for your nonprofit group working on cartoons with kids. 🙂
January 10, 2022 at 10:38 am
mbtgroupcb
Thanks for sharing Steve. I love your sense of humor in these cartoons:)! The list of ideas formatted in the column approach is interesting. I will have to try it! Marianne