If inspiration is all around us, why does it sometimes feel as if our muse is on vacation—basking in the sun and living the good life while we’re struggling to settle into our creative groove?
Without our muse to guide the way, we are destined to be adrift in a sea of uncertainty headed towards a creative abyss, right? Wrong!
I want to let you in on a little secret. Are you ready for it? Here it is: You don’t need a muse!
There won’t be an “aha moment” around every corner. There may not be an aura surrounding your next big idea. If you want access to a constant source of inspiration, look no further than yourself. All you need is your inspiration tool box.
My inspiration tool box helps me to generate ideas at any stage of the writing process. What’s great about it is that it only consists of three things: eyesight, insight, and hindsight.
- Eyesight
Take a look around. Your home, job, and favorite hangout spots are waiting to be mined for story ideas. Get your axe and get picking! - Insight
Take a long, hard look at something—anything. Take a closer look at it then you normally would. Involve your senses. Take note of how it looks, smells, feels, tastes, sounds. There’s more depth involved in insight than eyesight. Consider your emotional response to what you’re observing. Experience the object of your focus. - Hindsight
You can’t change the past, but you can sure draw some inspiration from it. What made your heart skip a beat when you were younger? What is the most cherished memory of your recent past? Who or what have been most important to you and why? Think about some of your first experiences and the way they made you feel.
You can use all three tools at once, or you can pick and choose. For my picture book debut, NOT QUITE SNOW WHITE, I used a combination of the three to come up with the idea. Here’s how I used my inspiration tool box:
Eyesight:
Q: What do I see a lot of?
A: Princesses. They’re everywhere and on everything.
Insight:
Q: What’s common about the princesses?
A: Most of them are White. There’s not much variation. They’re all “perfect” according to today’s standards.
Q: What’s missing?
A: Princesses with quirks. Princesses who look like me.
Hindsight:
Q: What made me happy as a kid?
A: Barbies. Mom made a point to buy me POC Barbies. I had tons.
Q: How do I feel about that?
A: Back then, the dolls made me happy. They were my favorite. Now, I realize they helped me feel seen (which was especially important because I attended predominantly White schools).
As you can see, I always begin with questions. Personally, I find that beginning with questions helps me to focus my ideas.
Armed with the thoughts gifted to me by my tool box, I decided that I wanted to write an African-American princess story. Many wretched and promising drafts later (thanks, revision!), I came up with Tameika’s story.
I’m happy to introduce to you, my Storystorm family, the cover of NOT QUITE SNOW WHITE:
:
Ashley Franklin is an African-American writer, mother, and adjunct college professor. Ashley received her M.A. from the University of Delaware in English Literature, where she reaffirmed her love of writing but realized she had NO IDEA what she wanted to do about it.
Ashley currently resides in Arkansas with her family. Her debut picture book, NOT QUITE SNOW WHITE, will be published July 9, 2019 by HarperCollins. The idea for the book originated from a former Storystorm (then PiBoIdMo) challenge. For more information on Ashley, you can visit her website: ashleyfranklinwrites.com.
Social media savvy? You can find Ashley on one of these platforms: Twitter @differentashley, Instagram: @ashleyfranklinwrites and Facebook.
Ashley is giving away two prizes to two winners. First, a signed copy of NOT QUITE SNOW WHITE when it releases. Second, a non-rhyming picture book critique.
Simply leave ONE COMMENT below to enter.
You’re eligible to win if you’re a registered Storystorm participant and you have commented once below. Prizes will be given away at the conclusion of the event.
Good luck!
594 comments
Comments feed for this article
January 13, 2019 at 8:09 am
Tina Cho
Love the cover! Thanks for sharing your thinking process!
January 13, 2019 at 11:43 am
Ashley Franklin
Thank your for reading, Tina! I’m glad you enjoyed the post.
Happy Writing!
-Ashley
January 13, 2019 at 8:10 am
Meli Glickman
The 3-part wisdom of eyesight, insight, and hindsight is amazingly powerful. I appreciate how useful each step can be in the inspirational idea phases. Love it! Many thanks for sharing!
January 13, 2019 at 8:14 am
Suzanne LaLiberte Lewis
Love the simplicity and usefulness of your tool box, Ashley! Also your reminder to “Experience the object of your focus.” is soooo right on!
January 13, 2019 at 8:15 am
Ashley Congdon
This is a great idea. It gets yourself talking about ideas and really thinking about them. I haven’t done that too often. I really like your concept for the book. It looks like a great read. I will be looking out for it! Congratulations on your debut.
January 13, 2019 at 8:16 am
Mark Bentz
Congratulations Ashley! Great cover and story.
Looking forward to reading your first book. Thank you for posting.
January 13, 2019 at 8:21 am
authoryvonafast
I”m looking forward to your book coming out this summer! Thank you for sharing your powerful tools – eyesight, insight, hindsight! Lots of wisdom there!
January 13, 2019 at 8:23 am
Nadia A.
Such a good way to conjure up ideas. You had me when you said you see Princesses everywhere! So funny, then to see the title and the cover of your book – amazing!
January 13, 2019 at 8:27 am
michelemeleen
Great advice, and easy to remember too! Thanks for sharing😍
January 13, 2019 at 8:37 am
tanyakonerman
I like the elements of your tool box, especially the INSIGHT. This is a great way to really focus on something in a way that opens up new, well, insights!
January 13, 2019 at 8:49 am
Kathy Halsey
Congrats on your debut. NOT QUITE SNOW WHITE looks like a fun, much-needed book. TY of sharing the process of how you came up with the idea!
January 13, 2019 at 8:51 am
Shelly Hawley-Yan
Thank you!! If that lazy muse is onvacation I’ll just jump in and do things myself! Lol thanks for the great reminders! 💗
January 13, 2019 at 8:53 am
Linda Mitchell
I love it! This is similar to lose the magic…there isn’t magic. There’s the practice of being creative. Wonderful post. MANY congratulations on, ‘Not Quite Snow White’
January 13, 2019 at 8:55 am
Heather Stigall
This is a really good idea generator. Thanks for sharing how you came up with your story idea and congratulations on your book!
January 13, 2019 at 8:59 am
Johnell DeWitt
Excellent tips. Loved this. Thank you.
January 13, 2019 at 8:59 am
melissamiles1
Congratulations on your new book! And thanks for sharing your ideas for getting our own writing inspiration.
January 13, 2019 at 9:03 am
reluctantspy
I like the idea of “looks like me” for everybody. Cool!
January 13, 2019 at 9:05 am
Carrie Kruck
Love hearing about how a book was born – thanks for sharing your process! Can’t wait to read Tameika’s story.
January 13, 2019 at 9:08 am
Leanne Luetkemeyer
Very inspiring! Excited to read your upcoming princess book! Thank you
January 13, 2019 at 9:08 am
Margaret Flint Suter
Looking forward to reading your story, sounds like one I should also adopt a copy for my library! Thanks for reminding me that quirky can be an asset!
January 13, 2019 at 9:09 am
marlainawrites
Very nice toolbox, and congratulations!
January 13, 2019 at 9:10 am
Jane Dippold
Congratulations on your debut book! I appreciate your idea of beginning with questions. Thanks for a great post!
January 13, 2019 at 9:11 am
Mary Warth
Thank you Ashley, for a look into your process. The toolbox is great- so accessable! And congratulations on your new book!
January 13, 2019 at 9:12 am
Kathryn E Kass
This a great suggestion. Thank you for your sharing what’s in your toolbox. I love your book idea, can’t wait to read a copy.
January 13, 2019 at 9:14 am
Jennifer Bower
Thanks Ashley for the inspiring post! You are right. Inspiration is all around us, we simply have to open our eyes and take notice of things. It truly is something we sometimes forget to do.
January 13, 2019 at 9:17 am
Manju B. Howard (@ManjuBeth)
I like your approach to finding a concept. Congratulations on your debut picture book, NOT QUITE SNOW WHITE!
January 13, 2019 at 9:19 am
Kristen Tipman
Thanks so much for sharing how you came up with your idea for Not Quite Snow White. I’m definitely going to try this process to get some new ideas. And congratulations on your debut! I’m going to watch for it.
January 13, 2019 at 9:47 am
Ashley Franklin
Thanks, Kristen! I do hope you’re able to generate some awesome ideas. Sometimes it’s all about asking the right questions.
-Ashley
January 13, 2019 at 9:27 am
kiwijenny
Thank you for celebrating our differences. Thanks for sight, insight and hindsight. That’s going to be my new mantra.
January 13, 2019 at 9:29 am
stiefelchana
Brilliant post! Thank you Ashley. And congrats on your book. Looks adorable!
January 13, 2019 at 9:31 am
Joy Pitcairn
Congratulations on your book! I’m going to be looking for this one on the shelves!
January 13, 2019 at 9:31 am
Julie Mondi
Thank you so much for your thoughts. I really like the idea of asking questions.
January 13, 2019 at 9:35 am
Andria Rosenbaum
Love the idea of a toolbox that spotlights how to begin. Thanks for sharing the mechanics ;-)!
January 13, 2019 at 9:42 am
Midge Ballou Smith
Thank you, Ashley! And a big congrats on your book!
January 13, 2019 at 9:42 am
jheitman22
Congratulations on this book! It looks fabulous and will be a favorite for lots of kids! Thank you for the ideas, too. I like the question idea for focus.
January 13, 2019 at 9:46 am
Jennifer G Prevost
Congrats on your upcoming release! I think your toolbox (and it’s three components) is one of the most valuable pieces of info yet. You just put the power in our hands, the writer. We don’t need to sit around and wait for inspiration, we have it… it’s just all about perspective!
January 13, 2019 at 9:50 am
Ashley Franklin
You’re absolutely right, Jennifer! It is all about perspective. With so much life to live and so many words to write, who has time to sit around and wait for inspiration?
-Ashley
January 13, 2019 at 9:47 am
gayleckrause
Excellent tips. Let’s all just open our eyes! I love your cover and concept for your new book and so will hundreds of young readers. Thank you for sharing. 🙂
January 13, 2019 at 9:51 am
pathaap
Love your idea of an inspiration tool box! Thanks for that tip. And congratulations on Not Quite Snow White!
January 13, 2019 at 9:53 am
bgonsar
Loved hearing the story behind the story. Thanks!
January 13, 2019 at 9:53 am
polly renner
Thank you, Ashley, for your inspirational post! I cannot wait to read your new book this July:>
January 13, 2019 at 9:58 am
chrisynthia
Yes this was exactly whst I needed to read. Great post. And I can not wait to read your book.
January 13, 2019 at 9:59 am
Katie L. Carroll (@KatieLCarroll)
Thanks for the great toolbox tips!
January 13, 2019 at 10:00 am
ssafra22
Great idea to incorporate what you see, what yiu feel, and what you’ve learned. I do this when teaching my high school students and it is a really effective way to help them connect their writing to their world. I like how you narrowed it down to 3 easy to understand components. Thanks for the great post!
January 13, 2019 at 10:01 am
ptnozell
Congratulations on your upcoming debut! And thank you for the wonderful advice.
January 13, 2019 at 10:06 am
Genevieve Petrillo
I like the start-with-a-question approach to the toolbox idea. I’ve used the “What if…” question, but yours are just as useful, and easier to answer! Good post. Congratulations and good luck with the new book.
January 13, 2019 at 10:07 am
C.L. Murphy
Thanks for sharing your tool box of inspiration, Ashley!
January 13, 2019 at 10:07 am
Li’vee Rehfield
Ashley thank you for this approach to not needing a muse…questions are good😊
January 13, 2019 at 10:09 am
Lucky Jo Boscarino
I think we all need “Lose the Muse” t-shirts!
January 13, 2019 at 10:10 am
carol w Munro
What a fresh way to look at story idea generation, Ashley! Thanks for “eyesight, insight, hindsight.” I’m going to use this process to develop ideas I already have on my list — the ones I think have a nugget of worth, but I haven’t figured out where they should go.
January 13, 2019 at 10:12 am
Nancy Ramsey
Thanks for your inspiration today- Great post! Congratulations on your book! I can’t wait to read it!
January 13, 2019 at 10:12 am
MD Knabb
Thanks for your handy, dandy toolb0x, Ashley. Congratulations on the new book!
January 13, 2019 at 10:14 am
Lori Dubbin
I love your break down and explanation of “eyesight, insight, and hindsight!” Putting on my tool box glasses now. Congratulations on your new picture book.
January 13, 2019 at 10:15 am
Poppy P
Sounds like a great book! Love the title.
January 13, 2019 at 10:16 am
sarahheturadny
Ashley, thank you for the pointers. I have always found that the muse strikes when least convenient (driving, falling asleep, waking up, etc). NOT when I have time to and sit down to write. So I really appreciate your advise to grab a tool (eyesight, insight, and hindsight) from our always-ready tool box. (And I love the three sights – I’m an eye doctor!) I also received a great Christmas present from a writing friend that has proven both relaxing and helpful: A mainly blank book with 300 writing prompts for writers. Thank you again, and I hope to win the critique (or the PBs!), but even if I don’t, I thank you for the helpful insights! Sarah
January 13, 2019 at 10:17 am
Becky Ross Michael
Love these ideas about our different “sights!”
January 13, 2019 at 10:17 am
Linda Chavez
Yes, me too! Love the title and premise of your book! Thanks for tips on generating ideas.
January 13, 2019 at 10:25 am
Aimee Isaac
Great tips! I can’t wait to read Not Quite Snow White!
January 13, 2019 at 10:26 am
rimna
Great process for generating ideas – thanks!
January 13, 2019 at 10:26 am
Mardi Edwards
Thanks for the good ideas for generating my own.
January 13, 2019 at 10:27 am
Lynne Marie
This is wonderful — what a unique and inviting twist on a princess. LOVE it — so fresh! Good luck with this. And love the tool box. I use mine all the time and am thankful for this invitation to sharpen my tools!
January 13, 2019 at 10:27 am
Cynthia Hawthorne
I love the cover and the title of “Not Quite Snow White” and the three “sights,” Ashley. Thank you for sharing. And thanks to your mom for providing you with what you needed growing up.
January 13, 2019 at 10:29 am
Pamela Harrison
I love the three things in the tool box! Thank you! And congratulations on Not Quite Snow White!
January 13, 2019 at 10:29 am
Nadine Poper
Congratulations on your forthcoming debut! I will be looking for this to add to my school library.
January 13, 2019 at 10:30 am
Paula Puckett
Thank you for sharing your story about NOT QUITE SNOW WHITE and how it came to be. Good luck on the upcoming release.
And the technique of using eyesight, insight, and hindsight are a wonderful addition to this writer’s toolbox. Great suggestions!
January 13, 2019 at 10:31 am
Lucretia
Thank you for sharing the three sights in your your tool box and your productive approach to using them. I’m looking forward to trying your technique. Congratulations on your debut PB, which sounds wonderful!
January 13, 2019 at 10:31 am
authoraileenstewart
Looks like a beautiful book!
January 13, 2019 at 10:32 am
Teresa Daffern
Your idea toolbox is fabulous! Thank you. I love the questions it evokes.
January 13, 2019 at 10:34 am
James Arthur
What an INSIGHTful post!
January 13, 2019 at 10:38 am
Ashley Franklin
I see what you did there.😊Glad you enjoyed it!
-Ashley
January 13, 2019 at 10:35 am
vijikc
I agree with you that when the muse takes a vacation, we need to find another way. Thank you for the ideas!
January 13, 2019 at 10:38 am
Cheryl Malandrinos
You have a wonderful tool box. Love these insightful questions to get us to where the ideas flow. Thanks for sharing.
January 13, 2019 at 10:41 am
Michelle O'Hara Levin
Thanks for this post! And I can’t wait to get this book for our library.
January 13, 2019 at 10:42 am
Danielle Dufayet
Thanks for sharing your tools and congrats on what looks like a terrific book!
January 13, 2019 at 10:47 am
Alice Carty Fulgione
Looks like a great book! Thanks for the post!
January 13, 2019 at 10:47 am
Debra Katz
Congratulations to Ms. Franklin on her forthcoming picture book. It is a idea that is long overdue.
January 13, 2019 at 10:47 am
hermanator33
Brilliant and much needed book! I’ll be thinking about this title all day and smiling. I have a MS about a princess with anxiety, and have received mixed feedback. One agent said she loved the concept but they had recently signed an author with a similar book. A second said he was good with the princess, but the topic was too dark. (That was the day I realized just how subjective this business is.) Can’t wait yo rot request that our local library add Not Quite Snow White to the shelves.
January 13, 2019 at 10:48 am
June Sengpiehl
What a creative post. Not only can we use your tools but we can create a
few of our own to help us write.
January 13, 2019 at 11:01 am
Ashley Franklin
Exactly! It’s YOUR tool box. Add what tools work for your writing process.
I’m glad you enjoyed the post, June!
-Ashley
January 13, 2019 at 10:51 am
rachelnrosenthal
Thank you for posting this! A great reminder to dig deep and find inspiration from within.
January 13, 2019 at 10:52 am
Debra K Shumaker
Can’t wait to read this book. Congrats!!!!
January 13, 2019 at 10:56 am
Deb Sullivan
What a helpful suggestion! And I can’t wait to read your book – FABULOUS title! Thanks for sharing.
January 13, 2019 at 11:01 am
Louann Brown
How wonderful. It’s more than time for more books featuring the rainbow of our world. Now off to find those story starters in our house!
January 13, 2019 at 11:03 am
nicolesalterbraun
Your book looks/sounds great! Can’t wait to read it! THank you for your post
January 13, 2019 at 11:07 am
betlw
Thanks, Ashley, for the writing tips for getting a new idea. Your book was long overdue. I can’t wait to read it. Good luck and many sales with it.
January 13, 2019 at 11:08 am
Melanie Ellsworth
I like the suggestion to remember what ‘made your heart skip a beat.” Congratulations on your debut – I’m looking forward to sharing it with my daughter.
January 13, 2019 at 11:10 am
runi
What a great idea structure. Thanks for sharing. It’s always nice to read the thought process of a creative product.
January 13, 2019 at 11:14 am
Robin Jordan
Eyesight, insight and hindsight! Love it! Just open your eyes! Of course, I should have the foresight to know this! Thank you so much for sharing, Ashley and for posting, Tara!
January 13, 2019 at 11:15 am
beckylevine
Lovely…great way to keep going deeper. Thank you!
January 13, 2019 at 11:15 am
Cindy Schumerth
Thanks for this post and giving me permission to throw away the muse idea. I don’t have a muse and sort of felt like something was wrong with my writing because I never have a muse. I absolutely agree with this article and its simple idea of eyesight, insight, and hindsight.
This looks to be a great book and I can’t wait to get my hands on a copy.
January 13, 2019 at 11:21 am
Carole Calladine
Thank you for sharing the muse behind Not Quite Snow White. EyeSight Insight Hindsight! Can’t wait to read it.
January 13, 2019 at 11:21 am
Mary Vander Plas
My personal favorite post so far! Thank you for the inspiration 💗
January 13, 2019 at 11:22 am
supermario6
This book sounds absolutely wonderful. Congratulations!
January 13, 2019 at 11:25 am
Jodi Mckay
Congratulations on your debut book, it looks adorable! Great post on the “sights”.
January 13, 2019 at 11:27 am
Juliana Lee
Ohmygoodness Ashley! Tameika is beautiful! Can’t wait to read her story. I woke up this morning to drifts of perfect white snow anxious to dig into my Storystorm and found your gem of a not quite snow white. Taking notes and ready to use my three tools too!
January 13, 2019 at 11:27 am
thelmakat
Thank you so much for sharing with us about your Inspiration Tool Box idea!! Such a great way to use our senses! Congratulations on your upcoming book
January 13, 2019 at 11:30 am
Jane Serpa
Thank you for sharing.
January 13, 2019 at 11:30 am
Debbi G
Thanks for sharing your tool box. Congrats on Not Quite Snow White. The cover is adorable. I look forward to seeing the text and other illustrations.
January 13, 2019 at 11:31 am
saputnam
Great post, Ashley!! Thank you for giving us a peek behind the writing of your book, Not Quite Snow White. Love your inspiration tool box idea… my muse is always splitting for Cancun and drinking margaritas while ogling the cabana boys so your tool box will come in handy
January 13, 2019 at 11:45 am
Ashley Franklin
Make sure your muse shares those frequent flyer miles😆! I’m glad you enjoyed the post.
-Ashley
January 13, 2019 at 11:32 am
Janice Woods
Great post! Thanks for sharing and congrats! Can’t wait to read your debut!
January 13, 2019 at 11:33 am
Barbara Farr Renner
I loved reading your bio, Ashley! I also love your Tool Box idea! I need to work on my hindsight as to how I felt about things as a child. I find myself remembering my daughter’s trials and tribulations – but I would need to get inside her head more to pull out her child feelings.
January 13, 2019 at 11:33 am
Linda KulpTrout
Thanks for the inspiration!
January 13, 2019 at 11:34 am
Tania Russ Hebert
Thanks for sharing and congratulations!
January 13, 2019 at 11:34 am
Charlotte Offsay
Great inspiration and beautiful cover/concept!
January 13, 2019 at 11:35 am
Susan Macartney
Fun, straightforward and really useful – losing “the muse” and checking out my tool box – thanks Ashley!
January 13, 2019 at 11:37 am
M Lapointe Malchik (@imartytweet)
Hi Ashley, I LOVE the title of your new picture book. I also think your formula for losing the muse and using eyesight, insight, and hindsight is sheer magic! Thank you for the generous giveaways and for participating in Storystorm!
January 13, 2019 at 11:37 am
Carolyn Bennett Fraiser
Great questions to add to our toolbox. Thanks for sharing. I love delving into memories and asking the difficult questions!
January 13, 2019 at 11:40 am
Mary Jane
Ashley. A beautiful cover for your wonderful new picture book.Thank you for this post today.
January 13, 2019 at 11:41 am
LaTonya Richardson
Way cool… I am also from Arkansas!
January 13, 2019 at 11:41 am
Jennifer Phillips
Congratulations on your book and thanks for the advice on how to lose the muse. Love it.
January 13, 2019 at 11:45 am
Karin Larson
This is a great way to think about ideas, thank you! Congratulations on your book. The cover is terrific!
January 13, 2019 at 11:46 am
writeknit
I love this post. It reminds me that a thunderbolt idea isn’t going to hit me while I am knitting (ok, most likely it won’t, but you never can give up hope). Thanks for the extra tools I need while waiting for that elusive bolt to arrive.
January 13, 2019 at 11:46 am
Ellen Sirianni
Thank you for sharing your Inspiration Tool Box idea. Congratulations on your book. Looking forward to reading it.
January 13, 2019 at 11:50 am
LaurenKerstein
Our tools:
“Eyesight”
“Insight”
“Hindsight”
Important questions.
Wow! What a helpful post! Thank you. Congratulations on NOT QUITE SNOW WHITE! The cover is fantastic and I can’t wait to read it!
January 13, 2019 at 11:51 am
Kim Wilson (@AuthorKimWilson)
Great tools – thank you!
January 13, 2019 at 11:51 am
Nicole Turner
Thank you for the post. I love the idea of using his tool box for ideas. I can’t wait to read your upcoming new book.
January 13, 2019 at 11:51 am
ranessadoucet
Thank you for the inspiration! I can’t wait to read your book!
January 13, 2019 at 11:53 am
Janie Reinart
Ashley, fabulous idea for the tool box! Congrats on your new picture book. Love the cover reveal!
January 13, 2019 at 11:54 am
Gregory E Bray
Thanks for the post.
January 13, 2019 at 11:56 am
Joan Longstaff
Always nice to have tools you don’t have to go out and buy! Thanks for the prompt!
January 13, 2019 at 12:01 pm
Becky H
Brilliant!
January 13, 2019 at 12:01 pm
Katie Engen
Great advice rolled out in great wordplay! Love. It.
January 13, 2019 at 12:01 pm
Robin Brett Wechsler
Ashely, thank you for sharing your insights into idea generation and the story behind your story. I love fairy tale retellings and I can’t wait to read your version of Snow White. You’re an inspiration!
January 13, 2019 at 12:02 pm
Robin Brett Wechsler
I meant Ashley!
January 13, 2019 at 12:04 pm
tiffanydickinson
Congratulations on your debut, Ashley. It’s a great concept; I look forward to reading it. Thanks!
January 13, 2019 at 12:06 pm
celticsea
What tremendously helpful advice! I love the story you wrote and can appreciate how these suggestions helped you to write that story!
January 13, 2019 at 12:07 pm
DaNeil Olson
Congratulations! I look forward to reading “Not Quite Snow White”. And thank you for the excellent advice.
January 13, 2019 at 12:08 pm
Linda Hofke
Congrats on your book, Ashely.
And thanks for sharing your questioning/toolbox method.
January 13, 2019 at 12:16 pm
thecrowsmap
Thank you for sharing the sources of your inspiration. Congratulations on your debut picture book! Gail Hartman
January 13, 2019 at 12:18 pm
Keri Colon
Congratulations on your new story… I love the ideas you expressed and wish you success!
January 13, 2019 at 12:20 pm
Debra Daugherty
Congratulations, Ashley, on your upcoming picture book. I love the cover.
January 13, 2019 at 12:20 pm
judyrubin13
Thank you, Ashley, for sharing the contents of your toolbox. I look forward to including aspects of your idea into my writing process. Your book cover is inspirational.
January 13, 2019 at 12:20 pm
nrompella
Interesting way to get reinspired (autocorrect keeps changing this to reinsured!). Thanks for sharing.
January 13, 2019 at 12:22 pm
Tracy Hora
Congrats on your debut! Can’t wait to read it. And, thanks for sharing your toolbox.
January 13, 2019 at 12:23 pm
Andrea Mack
Wow! I love this approach to finding an idea. I’m going to try it today. I’m super excited about your book — I think it will be excellent for my classroom!
January 13, 2019 at 12:24 pm
storyfairy
Great post. I ask myself questions a lot while writing, too.
January 13, 2019 at 12:25 pm
Lynn Baldwin
Great ideas and I look forward to reading your book. Love the title!
January 13, 2019 at 12:28 pm
Sandy Foster
Congratulations on Not Quite Snow White! I can’t wait to read it! Thank you for the great ideas. . . Very helpful.
January 13, 2019 at 12:30 pm
Anjali Amit
Sight: the power of seeing. What a powerful toolbox you have created with three simple words. Thank you. And congratulations on your upcoming book.
January 13, 2019 at 12:36 pm
heidikyates
Thank you for sharing these terrific ideas Ashley! Your book looks great and I can’t wait to read it. 🙂
January 13, 2019 at 12:38 pm
Nancy Ferguson
Thank you, Ashley. Three different ways to gather ideas and DEVELOP a story. Great. I’m looking forward to Not Quite Snow White.
January 13, 2019 at 12:40 pm
Amalia Reef
Thank you for this! I can’t wait to read Not Quite Snow White!
January 13, 2019 at 12:42 pm
moviemommie
Thanks for the moving post. I’m excited to read your book. And also appreciate the offer of a critique.
Jenna
January 13, 2019 at 12:44 pm
Shelly Wilson
Thank you! You set my creativity in motion this morning.
January 13, 2019 at 12:46 pm
Cheryl Johnson
Can’t wait to read your debut book!!
January 13, 2019 at 12:53 pm
Anna Ouchchy
What a great post! Thanks for sharing your process with us. Can’t wait to read your book.
January 13, 2019 at 12:55 pm
Beth Gallagher
Thank you so much for this post, Ashley! After the first days of Storystorm flooding me with really good ideas and outlines, apparently my muse took a sabbatical. Thinking about your inspirational post opened a new path to ideas! Now I’m off to add to my idea notebook. Thanks! 😊
January 13, 2019 at 12:56 pm
Teresa Klepinger
Love your concept! I’ll read it!
January 13, 2019 at 1:02 pm
Claire W Bobrow
I’m so glad to see a post about trading the elusive, infuriating muse for a toolbox. Much more sensible, and effective! Thanks for the tips, Ashley. Your book looks wonderful – can’t wait to read it!
January 13, 2019 at 1:03 pm
colleenrkosinski
Great ida!
January 13, 2019 at 1:03 pm
Lillian Heckinger
Your book sounds great! Can’t wait to read it. Good luck.
Lillian
January 13, 2019 at 1:08 pm
KATHY Z.PRICE
Congrats Ashley! That title gives me giggles
January 13, 2019 at 1:11 pm
bevbaird
Great post – love your ideas. Can’t wait to read your book.
January 13, 2019 at 1:12 pm
Angie Isaacs
I love your book cover! It’s so adorable!
January 13, 2019 at 1:16 pm
Sheri Radovich
Congratulations on your book launch and your ideas. I think each of our own perspectives on an idea is different. I have a story to tell on one of my first experiences and you’ve given me an idea to plot it out. Thanks.
January 13, 2019 at 1:19 pm
Kathy Mazurowski
Congratulations on your PB. It looks and sounds wonderful. Thanks for the ideas of getting ideas.
January 13, 2019 at 1:20 pm
Marge Gower
Congrats on your book. Many times we think our childhood was boring and who would want to read about it. However, we have many incidents that stand out and children now could still relate. Thanks for the reminder. Luck in the future. 🙂
January 13, 2019 at 1:21 pm
Barb Ostapina
Clever, Ashley! Thank you. And congratulations on your book.
January 13, 2019 at 1:21 pm
Cathy Ogren
You pose excellent questions to ask when trying to come up with an idea. Thank you, Ashley and congratulations on your success!
January 13, 2019 at 1:26 pm
Marge Gower
Congratulations on your book “Not Quite Snow White”. I love the cover. Thanks for the reminder that no matter how boring our past life seemed, we have valuable things to draw from that are relatable now days.
January 13, 2019 at 1:28 pm
faithkaz
I love these recommendations and can’t wait to see the book! Thank you for sharing!
January 13, 2019 at 1:28 pm
Wendy
I didn’t know you were a U Del grad, too! Nice to learn more about you here. 🙂 Thanks for sharing your tips.
January 13, 2019 at 1:31 pm
Elizabeth Saba
Ashley, a perfect kick start/reminder. Waiting for a muse might take a while. Looking forward to your book. Thanks for the post.
January 13, 2019 at 1:32 pm
Bonni Goldberg
First, Congratulations on your debut picture book (no small feat)! It’s inspiring to know it came out of this challenge. Your tool box is simple and elegant. I especially appreciated you demonstrating how it worked to create your debut. May it be the first of many.
January 13, 2019 at 1:35 pm
Antje
I can’t wait to read your book. Congratulations! Thank you for you so much for todays suggestions!
January 13, 2019 at 1:37 pm
Sheri Dillard
Great post! Thanks, Ashley! And congratulations on your debut!! 😊
January 13, 2019 at 1:37 pm
Lauri Meyers
Ashley, your book looks fabulous! I love how your toolbox questions helped you find your way to this story.
January 13, 2019 at 1:42 pm
Tanya Shock
Thanks for sharing Ashley. I adore your cover! 🙂
January 13, 2019 at 1:43 pm
chardixon47
Congrats on the new book, Ashley! I look forward to reading it. Thank you for the insights into using your tool box to advance our stories. Terrific information!
January 13, 2019 at 1:49 pm
Jennifer
Congratulations on your book, Ashley! I love how you came up with the idea. Great example for us!
January 13, 2019 at 1:50 pm
Susan Johnston
Congrats on your upcoming book, Ashley, and thanks for the tips!
January 13, 2019 at 1:51 pm
katrinamoorebooks
Great post, Ashley! Hooray for your cover being out in the world now! I can’t wait for little princesses and princes around the world to enjoy your book. ❤
January 13, 2019 at 1:53 pm
Angie
Congratulations! Love your new story! Thanks for the great ‘thinking’ process examples. I’m sure these will help me in my writing!
January 13, 2019 at 1:54 pm
karengreenwald2985
Ashley, thank you for your post! These are great tips–I especially like the “ask questions” comment. What a great way to break into your past or future!
January 13, 2019 at 1:54 pm
Lori Mozdzierz
Congrats, Ashley on your debut picture book!
Thanks for sharing your creative process.
Excellent tip to add to our writing tool box.
January 13, 2019 at 1:59 pm
kaleegwarjanski
Congratulations!
January 13, 2019 at 2:03 pm
Sue Heavenrich
great inspiration! And I can’t wait to see your new book out on the shelves. Congratulations, Ashley.
January 13, 2019 at 2:05 pm
Kimberly
Congratulations Ashley!! I’m so happy and excited for you. I can’t wait to own your book!!
January 13, 2019 at 2:06 pm
Nancy Colle
A big congrats on your book! Thank you;)
January 13, 2019 at 2:10 pm
Maria Marshall
What a great cover! Thank you for this toolbox of ideas and your examples. This sounds like a great book.
January 13, 2019 at 2:11 pm
Deb Cushman
Thank you for sharing your inspiration tool box!
January 13, 2019 at 2:15 pm
Connie Van Horn
Thank you for ideas for inspiration,
January 13, 2019 at 2:23 pm
lorisherritt
Thank you Ashley for proving that dreams DO come true! Harper Collins! WOW! I love the formula, so beautifully and simply put! Eyesight, insight, hindsight.
January 13, 2019 at 2:24 pm
jaclynsmiller
Congrats on your debut!
January 13, 2019 at 2:27 pm
Sallye O'Rourke
Can’t wait to read your debut!
January 13, 2019 at 2:28 pm
Jenifer McNamara
Enjoyed your post, and I really liked your inspiration tool box and how you use it to get those one-of-a-kind ideas.
January 13, 2019 at 2:29 pm
Suzanne Alexander
Eyesight, insight, and hindsight are such great inspirational tools! I wrote them down and posted them above my computer. Thanks for sharing.
January 13, 2019 at 2:30 pm
Kay Phillips
Helpful tips and great story title. Will look for it for sure.
January 13, 2019 at 2:30 pm
Beth Stilborn
Ashley! This is such a great post. I must memorize your advice about using eyesight, insight, and hindsight. I am so excited about NOT QUITE SNOW WHITE, and I’m dancing a virtual happy dance with you for this fantastic cover.
January 13, 2019 at 2:40 pm
Ashley Franklin
Thanks, Beth!❤️
January 13, 2019 at 2:32 pm
Joanna Rowland
Good thoughts to think about when the well feels dry. And I adore your cover.
January 13, 2019 at 2:33 pm
junesmalls
Can’t wait to see Not Quite Snow White!!!
January 13, 2019 at 2:35 pm
Rinda Beach
I love your process, eyesight…insight…hindsight. Thank you for for this gift!
January 13, 2019 at 2:41 pm
Tracey Brown
Congratulations on your debut, NOT QUITE SNOW WHITE! Thank you for sharing your inspiration tool box: eyesight, insight, and hindsight.
January 13, 2019 at 2:42 pm
teacherwriteracker
I am in love with your new book and love your process! Thank you for your post!
January 13, 2019 at 2:42 pm
Judy Y
Love the toolbox and its “can do” spirit. Thanks, Ashley. Congrats on your debut!
January 13, 2019 at 2:45 pm
Nicole Vuong
Lovely book, can’t wait to read it! xox
January 13, 2019 at 2:48 pm
megmbarnum
First – congrats Ms Franklin!
Second – did you have pictures in your head when you wrote and revised?
Third – do you ever revise the question or is it always tweaking the story?
Fourth – thank you for sharing your time and talent.
January 13, 2019 at 2:52 pm
Stephanie Shaw
I love the story idea you came up with! Winner!
January 13, 2019 at 2:59 pm
Dawn Prochovnic
What a great post. I’ve been jotting down ideas all morning after reading your post. I really appreciated your example of how you applied “Sight, Insight and Hindsight” and how that related to your new book (which I’m excited to read). Thanks so much!
January 13, 2019 at 3:00 pm
Martha
Thank you for sharing your fresh approach for brainstorming story ideas.
~Martha
January 13, 2019 at 3:01 pm
writersideup
Ashley, I LOVE this: What’s great about it is that it only consists of three things: eyesight, insight, and hindsight. Printing out the 3 to put SOMEwhere around my desk, so thank you for that! And I can’t wait to read NOT QUITE SNOW WHITE–marked my calendar! What a great result from Storystorm and your method 😀
January 13, 2019 at 3:01 pm
Keila Dawson
Oh my, I cannot wait to read your debut! And thanks for sharing your process for story idea inspiration Ashley.
January 13, 2019 at 3:02 pm
Susan Nicholas Korstanje
Thanks for sharing your tool box way of crafting new story ideas.
January 13, 2019 at 3:02 pm
Paisley Schade
A great book title and super smart ideas. Thank you for the letting us in on your process.
January 13, 2019 at 3:05 pm
therhymeoftime
This was so great!
January 13, 2019 at 3:05 pm
Anna Levin
I enjoyed reading the story behind your story and look forward to reading it! Congrats! Thank you for the tips!
January 13, 2019 at 3:10 pm
Arlene Schenker
Congratulations on your PB debut, Ashley. Can’t wait to read it!
January 13, 2019 at 3:17 pm
BrookeVS
Congratulations on your PB debut!! That’s so exciting and your cover art is fantastic! I think that the story is an awesome idea and can’t wait until it comes out. Also-thanks for your insight on asking the question that could find a new angle to a story. Very helpful 😊
January 13, 2019 at 3:21 pm
LenoraBiemans (@BiemansLenora)
Congratulations! I loved hearing your perspective.
January 13, 2019 at 3:22 pm
Sally Lotz Spratt - Badass 2019🦋 (@SallyLotzSpratt)
I decided to use the muse of my children and came up with a fantastic idea. Congrats on your book!
January 13, 2019 at 3:24 pm
Gail Hedrick
Wow, what a fantastic post-great process, and thank you so much for sharing it in such a concise way. I echo the many congrats on this wonderful picture book-this will keep a smile on my face the rest of the day!
January 13, 2019 at 3:26 pm
Kathryn Jean Hagen
Congratulations on your PB debut! I’m eager to read it. I loved your set of three “sights” to help the muse. Thank you!
January 13, 2019 at 3:30 pm
Gayle Veitenheimer
Great post and I love the idea for your book!
January 13, 2019 at 3:34 pm
Jamie Schultz
Great post! My “muse” has been elusive these days so it came at the right moment! 😉 Can’t wait to check out Not Quite Snow White!
January 13, 2019 at 3:39 pm
Sharon Nix Jones
Thank you for the advice. Great to hear that your story came from PiBoIdMo.
January 13, 2019 at 3:42 pm
Pam Miller
NOT QUITE SNOW WHITE – a brilliant title. Congratulations, and many thanks for the list of tools to encourage our Muse.
January 13, 2019 at 3:42 pm
denarose
Thanks for the great ideas! I can’t wait to read your book!!
January 13, 2019 at 3:42 pm
Carol Gwin Nelson
Great advice! We can’t wait for ideas to ‘show up’ we must actively look for them everywhere.
January 13, 2019 at 3:43 pm
Carolyn Currier
Thank you for sharing your process and also for adding more diversity to the princess story world!
January 13, 2019 at 3:44 pm
jenabenton
Wow! I love this method. And I can’t wait to read this book.
January 13, 2019 at 3:46 pm
matthewlasley
I think that the hindsight is the best part. It can be difficult to see the day to day since it is normal to us. Being from Alaska, when I visit elsewhere, people can be “Wow!” Now Alaska makes me wow too, but for different reasons.
Switching perspective is likely another tool in your box. I see it closely aligned to “insight”, but insight is self reflection, rather than empathic.
Congrats on your book, it is very insightful.
January 13, 2019 at 3:53 pm
Heather Gallagher
Thanks for the reminder that ideas are all around us! And congrats Ashley 💐
January 13, 2019 at 3:59 pm
lindaschueler
Congratulations! I look forward to reading your debut picture book.
January 13, 2019 at 4:02 pm
Michelle Sumovich
Oooo! I like the idea of merging the three. Taking details from the here and now would give some depth to the fragments of hindsight. What a great way to take half-remembered stories and bring them to life. Thank you, Ashley, and congrats on your debut! It’s refreshing to raise a daughter in the age of quirky princesses.
January 13, 2019 at 4:05 pm
Juliana Jones
I love that you always use questions based on the three “sights” to get started. Thanks for sharing a great idea!
January 13, 2019 at 4:06 pm
rjtraxel
Love your method. Your book sounds awesome.
January 13, 2019 at 4:07 pm
Kim Pfennigwerth
Love all the extra ‘sight’ this has for all of us!
January 13, 2019 at 4:11 pm
Moon Bishop
1. This process idea is genius. 2. I want THAT BOOK!!
January 13, 2019 at 4:18 pm
Aurora K
Ashely,
The toolbox is great. Thank you for sharing it. I love the cover for NOT QUITE SNOW WHITE. How awesome the reflection is smiling. I will have to check it out. Thanks again for sharing the toolbox.
January 13, 2019 at 4:20 pm
Evelyn Bookless
Loved this post Ashley and your debut looks adorable. Best of luck with it! Now to get me a toolbox; imaginary of course!
January 13, 2019 at 4:25 pm
Beth Schneider
Congrats on your book! I’m a sucker for a princess story and can’t wait to read this one 😊
January 13, 2019 at 4:26 pm
Latasha Vernon
Thank you Ashley for your eyesight, insight and hindsight! As a POC I looked and still look to see diverse books on the shelf. I can’t wait to read your story and share it with my Not Quite Snow White princesses.
January 13, 2019 at 4:27 pm
setwiggs
Ashley,
Congratulations on your debut book. I will use your 3 part inspiration tool.
January 13, 2019 at 4:28 pm
angiecal76
Thanks for your insight, Ashley, and congrats on your upcoming book Not Quite Snow White.
January 13, 2019 at 4:29 pm
wingedtrish
The creative muse is quite a romantic idea; the process rarely happens like that! My creativity dies when I try & wait around for a muse.
January 13, 2019 at 4:32 pm
Kathy
Looking forward to reading Not Quite Snow White. Great tips! I especially like the idea of insight…
January 13, 2019 at 4:39 pm
jeanjames926
Oh I just love your inspiration tool box. Congratulations on your book, it looks amazing, and I your princess is beautiful!
January 13, 2019 at 4:39 pm
lisabilla
Congratulations, Ashley! I look forward to meeting Tameika! Thanks for sharing your toolbox- I like the reminder to start out with questions to bring ideas into focus.
January 13, 2019 at 4:40 pm
Shirley
Congratulations on the publication of your book. And thanks for sharing your process.
January 13, 2019 at 4:42 pm
Mary York
Yea! We need diverse picture books! Congratulations, Ashley!
January 13, 2019 at 4:44 pm
karammitchell
Ashley! Congrats on your book and thanks for the toolbox!!
January 13, 2019 at 4:46 pm
Sara Matson
Can’t wait to read your book! Thanks for sharing.
January 13, 2019 at 4:48 pm
Krista Harrington
Great ideas! And I’m loving the cover to that book. So precious!
January 13, 2019 at 4:49 pm
writeremmcbride
Ashley, I love the idea of the toolbox coming with all the necessary tools intact and ready to go – a welcomed idea! Congratulations on your picture book! It sounds great and is certainly based upon an important need for recognition that goes unrecognized in most Princess stories.
January 13, 2019 at 4:49 pm
Sensibility and Sense
This is awesome, Ashley! So important to remember that writing is more about showing up ready to work moments than moments of muse inspiration! And congratulations on your new book! So happy for you. Patti Richards
January 13, 2019 at 4:51 pm
Rani Iyer
Love the idea. Thanks for sharing, Ashley! Congratulations!!
January 13, 2019 at 4:53 pm
CJ Penko
Love this! You can never ask too many questions. Thank you Ashley!
January 13, 2019 at 4:55 pm
Kathleen Wilcox
Your picture book sounds delightful! Thank you for sharing your “tool box” way of getting ideas.
January 13, 2019 at 4:57 pm
saralakron
Love the three “sights.” Great prompt. Good luck with the picture book. It looks lovely.
January 13, 2019 at 5:00 pm
lizricewrites
Thank you for the great tools of Eyesight Insight & Hindsight!
January 13, 2019 at 5:05 pm
Steve Schwartz
I loved “You can’t change the past, but you can sure draw some inspiration from it.” Lots of ways to apply that in writing and beyond. Thanks!
January 13, 2019 at 5:05 pm
Sherri Jones Rivers
Ah, those lovable “threes” have given you a template. Your title and cover are eye-catching, and I am sure your story is a winner. I liked learning how you came to write this story.
January 13, 2019 at 5:09 pm
Jessica Potts
Great cover! And can’t wait to read it!
January 13, 2019 at 5:12 pm
Carlie Cornell
Thank you. I appreciate your stories. I’m old enough that Barbie was only available as a blonde when I was a girl. I really wanted a brunette Barbie so I empathize with your love of the BOCs.
January 13, 2019 at 5:16 pm
Kaye Baillie
Great post and congratulations on your gorgeous book, Ashley.
January 13, 2019 at 5:20 pm
Judy Sobanski (@jkspburg)
Thanks for sharing how you find ideas (without a muse) and your debut book’s journey. I’m looking forward to reading it!
January 13, 2019 at 5:22 pm
Kathy O'Neill
Congratulations on your upcoming book! Great cover! I think using sight, insight, and hindsight is a helpful idea.
January 13, 2019 at 5:22 pm
Meghan Burch
Great advice, Ashley! I appreciate seeing the question process you used to come up with the concept for Not Quite Snow White. I can’t wait to read it!
January 13, 2019 at 5:31 pm
Darcee Freier
Congrats on your debut picture book, Ashley! And thanks for the toolbox ideas – I don’t even have to go to the store, just use my three sights!
January 13, 2019 at 5:36 pm
Erik Ammon
Congrats on your release coming this summer! I love your sight idea generator! Thanks Ashley!
January 13, 2019 at 5:37 pm
Amy Houts
I look forward to reading your book!
January 13, 2019 at 5:39 pm
Janet Smart
Congratulations, Ashley! And thank you for sharing your process to come up with ideas.
January 13, 2019 at 5:47 pm
Annie Cronin Romano
Great post! Love the “eyesight, insight, hindsight” approach! Looking forward to reading your book, too!
January 13, 2019 at 5:48 pm
Kellie
Congratulations on your debut book!! How exciting is that! I love hearing the stories of people who have previously participated in this wonderful group and are getting published. It gives great hope. I love your post too – the three ‘sights’ – and realise now I need to trust my instincts more. Thank you.
January 13, 2019 at 5:54 pm
seschipper
Congratulations!!! Love Princess stories! Thanks so much for sharing your toolbox!!! 🙂
January 13, 2019 at 5:56 pm
Alicia
Congratulations! Fabulous book cover!
January 13, 2019 at 5:59 pm
Jen Bagan
Thank you Ashley! Love your post and look forward to your book!
January 13, 2019 at 6:00 pm
Sue Frye
Congratulations! Great suggestions!
January 13, 2019 at 6:02 pm
Chambrae Griffith
Love the cover, I can’t wait to read it! Thanks for the inspiration.
January 13, 2019 at 6:11 pm
Carmen White
Congrats on your book! It looks so cute!
January 13, 2019 at 6:12 pm
Krista Maxwell
Love starting with questions.
January 13, 2019 at 6:16 pm
Monica Harris
Those darn muses! So unreliable – so difficult – so needy! I completely approve ditching them and going to our tool boxes. Congrats on your book! Great to hear a Storystorm success story.
January 13, 2019 at 6:16 pm
jenfierjasinski
Thank you for your story and ideas! I am looking forward to looking out and in more thanks to this advice.
January 13, 2019 at 6:18 pm
Buffy Silverman
Congratulations on NOT QUITE! Great cover, and great tool box ideas!
January 13, 2019 at 6:22 pm
cravevsworld
Interesting approach. Thank you for sharing!
January 13, 2019 at 6:23 pm
Stephen S. Martin
Very A- Musing. I think my Muse is riding a Moose in the Mohave.
January 13, 2019 at 6:24 pm
mona861
Great post! Your questions and answers to self make for great story starter(s). Thank you. Not Quite Snow White looks wonderful!!!
January 13, 2019 at 6:30 pm
kathydoherty1
This is an important book. I’d love to see it in all primary classrooms.
January 13, 2019 at 6:30 pm
DB Cote
I liked your statement, “You don’t need a muse!” Thank you.
January 13, 2019 at 6:32 pm
Marie Sanderson
Lovely! Thank you for the suggestions. And congratulations on what looks like a great book coming soon! If I have a muse, she’s usually taking a nap. So it’s good to be told I don’t need her.
January 13, 2019 at 6:33 pm
jennagrodzicki
Ashley, I can’t wait to read your book! Congratulations!!!
January 13, 2019 at 6:36 pm
Anna Harber Freeman
Thank you for sharing your writer’s toolbox, and congratulations on your book!
January 13, 2019 at 6:43 pm
Jane Baskwill
Ashley, fantastic cover, great title. Thank you for the tips and how you worked you way through the questions you had. Can’t wait to read your book. Good luck with it…
January 13, 2019 at 6:54 pm
Cynthia Harmony
Ah huge congrats on your book! I like these tools a lot, thanks for the post!
January 13, 2019 at 6:55 pm
Catrine Kyster
Just the title “No So Show White” sums up so many things – I love that title. I like the idea of looking closer at things around myself.
January 13, 2019 at 6:55 pm
Mary Lou Johnson
Congratulations, Ashley! So many little girls will be thanking you for this book!
January 13, 2019 at 6:59 pm
Frances Kalavritinos
I love the concept of a toolbox that can be used anytime, for any type of story. And it’s incredibly helpful to think in terms of insight and hindsight. Congratulations, Ashley, on your debut picture book!
January 13, 2019 at 7:07 pm
Jennifer Hunt
Love the easy to remember tips- eyesight, insight, and hindsight! I’m off to ask myself some questions in the hopes that some ideas reveal themselves. And congrats on the upcoming book!
January 13, 2019 at 7:13 pm
donnacangelosi
Thank you for sharing your toolbox ideas! Looking forward to reading your new book. Congratulations!
January 13, 2019 at 7:19 pm
Kaylynn Johnsen
Having bi-racial children makes me wonder, should I make my main character bi-racial? Thoughts?
January 13, 2019 at 7:22 pm
Bettie Boswell
Thanks for your helpful advice. Too often we don’t really see what is right in front of us. Congrats on your book!
January 13, 2019 at 7:35 pm
bookfish1
Thanks for the inspirational ideas
January 13, 2019 at 7:36 pm
mariaordish
Thank for the inspirational post, Ashley! Congrats on the book!
January 13, 2019 at 7:38 pm
andreesantini
Thanks for sharing, and love the cover and concept of Not Quite Snow White.
January 13, 2019 at 7:39 pm
Diana
Thank you for this great idea! I am looking forward to reading your book and sharing it with the kids at my school!
January 13, 2019 at 7:43 pm
Rona Shirdan
Great story! Good inspiration in your post. Thanks!
January 13, 2019 at 7:44 pm
Lisa L Furness
I love that you wrote this story! Can’t wait to read it!
January 13, 2019 at 7:44 pm
Barbara Senenman
eyesight – insight – hindsight – Love that!
January 13, 2019 at 7:51 pm
hallee2012
Great cover! These three points of focus are great. I especially love the “hindsight” idea. Definitely will bring up a lot of great emotion!!
Thanks for sharing!!!
January 13, 2019 at 7:52 pm
Amy Bradshaw
I am looking forward to reading your picture book this year! Loved hearing the thought process that went into writing it!
January 13, 2019 at 7:53 pm
desertattitude
Sharpening up my rusty tool box. Love the Eyesight – Insight – Hindsight. Thank you so much!
January 13, 2019 at 8:05 pm
Susanne Whitehouse
Eyesight, insight, hindsight … clever! Thank you!
January 13, 2019 at 8:06 pm
8catpaws
How wonderful that you used your toolbox to build your book!
January 13, 2019 at 8:07 pm
hdening
Looking forward to your book. Congratulations! Thanks for your toolbox of inspirational ideas. Extremely helpful!
January 13, 2019 at 8:09 pm
Jennifer Weisse
Wonderful!
January 13, 2019 at 8:18 pm
Liz Healey
This is great insight! Thank you for sharing.
January 13, 2019 at 8:22 pm
Valarie Giogas
What great question ideas to add to my list.TY
January 13, 2019 at 8:24 pm
nataliecohn0258
Thank you Ashley Franklin for sharing your tool box. These are great ideas for me to apply to my writing!
January 13, 2019 at 8:26 pm
Ryan Roberts
Can’t wait to read your book. Great tips!
January 13, 2019 at 8:38 pm
Prairie Garden Girl
Ashley! Thank you for sharing your writing process and tool box. I look forward to reading NOT QUITE SNOW WHITE.
Suzy Leopold
January 13, 2019 at 8:42 pm
Mary Miller
Ashley, I love this princess and your post of how to ask questions to channel ideas. I loved Barbies, too – NO DOLLS! Great post and thanks for sharing your tips.
January 13, 2019 at 8:46 pm
suzannepoulterharris
Love this unique take on the tool box idea. And what a clever title for your new book! I can’t wait to read it.
January 13, 2019 at 8:50 pm
missmaryliberry
This story looks PERFECT for sharing with our storytime kids! I know they will see themselves in this story. Thank you!
January 13, 2019 at 8:53 pm
Natalie Lynn Tanner
ASHLEY: I CAN’T WAIT to read your book! The cover alone melted my heart. Once again, knowing that a picture book is being published after the author received the idea during StoryStorm–SO INSPIRING!!!! I LOVE the idea of being our own muse, asking ourselves questions (sometimes tough ones) to generate ideas. WONDERFUL!!! THANK YOU, and CONGRATS!!!
January 13, 2019 at 8:57 pm
authorlaurablog
I love the way eyesight, insight, hindsight go together – a perfect rule of 3 message!
January 13, 2019 at 9:16 pm
Lisa Johnston Hancock
Awesome! I thought I recognized Ebony Glenn’s work!
January 13, 2019 at 9:23 pm
Lydia Lukidis
I’m so incredibly proud of you Ashley and happy to be your writing buddy 🙂
January 13, 2019 at 9:25 pm
Sharron Magyar
I like that your book came from a story storm challenge. Lovely cover. Always nice to be reminded to observe the obvious.
January 13, 2019 at 9:43 pm
smpeace
Great ideas! Thanks!
January 13, 2019 at 9:46 pm
RebeccaTheWriter
Love this idea! Thank you for your inspiring words of wisdom and congratsbon your book!! Can’t wait to read it!
January 13, 2019 at 9:50 pm
Rebekah Lowell
Congrats on NOT QUITE SNOW WHITE! I’m a firm believer that you can’t wait for inspiration, you have to work for it. I love those three words you gave us as tools and I’m gonna jot them down near today’s idea.
January 13, 2019 at 9:52 pm
fireurchin
I am eager to read your story! Love the cover, and you make it sound so easy… which I know it is not. Nevertheless, inspiring!
bonnie fireurchin lambourn
http://fireUrchin.com
January 13, 2019 at 9:56 pm
Jim Chaize
Congratulations, Ashley, on your book. I like your toolbox idea and will give it a try. Thanks.
January 13, 2019 at 10:06 pm
Sara A
Not Quite Snow White looks great!
January 13, 2019 at 10:06 pm
Melissa Mwai
The book looks fabulous and great post. Very useful!
January 13, 2019 at 10:11 pm
Penny Parker Klostermann
Hurry July! I want to read your book. Thanks for all of the great tips. Very useful!!!
And HUGH congratulations on your book!
January 13, 2019 at 10:17 pm
Patricia
Your suggestions seem like a very relaxing way to uncover ideas for a story.
January 13, 2019 at 10:28 pm
wyszguy
I can’t wait for your book to debut! Thanks for the “insight”-ful Post!
January 13, 2019 at 10:34 pm
Elizabeth Brown
Yay, Ashley! I can’t wait for your book! Thanks so much for your post!
January 13, 2019 at 10:47 pm
sherilyncook
Thank you for your insight.
January 13, 2019 at 10:51 pm
blutheory
I love this idea and am so excited. What a beautiful spin on a much loved tale. I can’t wait! Go Ashley!
January 13, 2019 at 11:02 pm
Marchelle Washington
It teaches me to open my mind and let it fly. Beautiful story.
January 13, 2019 at 11:12 pm
Gabi Snyder
Thanks for sharing your cover reveal with us! I can’t wait to read NOT QUITE SNOW WHITE! And I agree; the toolbox is much more useful and consistent than the muse.
January 13, 2019 at 11:16 pm
Joyce Frank
Can’t wait to try this toolbox method and can’t wait to read Not Quite Snow White.
January 13, 2019 at 11:22 pm
Nadia Salomon (@Nadia_Salomon)
Thank you for your great advice on where to look, twists and losing the ‘muse’. Congratulations on your debut! Wishing you much success.
January 13, 2019 at 11:32 pm
martina.franklin.poole
Thanks for the good advice! Stories are all around us.
January 13, 2019 at 11:35 pm
carmelamccainsimmons
Thanks so much for giving us new ways to vision the world!
January 13, 2019 at 11:37 pm
Rene` Diane Aube
Thanks for your idea generators and congratulations on your adorable upcoming book! 😊
January 13, 2019 at 11:42 pm
Vicky Ford
What a wonderful way to look at our author toolbox. One more great tool to add to it.
January 13, 2019 at 11:43 pm
Carolyn Lucas
Love this. Thank you. My muse is often on the beach somewhere drinking daiquiris I’m sure. 😊
January 13, 2019 at 11:46 pm
Sylvia Grech
Love this! Thanks for the advice. Needing some inspiration.
January 13, 2019 at 11:49 pm
David McMullin
Thanks for this post. It’s got me asking all the questions I need.
January 13, 2019 at 11:53 pm
Diane Tulloch
I just love, love the cover of your book. Thank you for the eyesight, insight and hindsight on how you came up with the idea for the story
January 13, 2019 at 11:58 pm
marty
Congrats on your book debut. Love the cover. Thanks for a practical post on generating ideas.
January 14, 2019 at 12:07 am
leeanimator
Thanks so much for the inspiring article!!! What a way to make your debut! Congratulations! And thanks for the help on paying attention so ideas can be found.
January 14, 2019 at 12:19 am
Chelle Martin
Looks like an adorable story. Thanks for sharing with us.
January 14, 2019 at 12:22 am
Deb Huard, Writer
Great post. So inspiring that the book came from a former Storystorm session. Can’t wait for the books debut. Thank you.
January 14, 2019 at 12:23 am
susanzonca
Loved reading your bio! Congratulations! “Not Quite Snow White” is fine example of using your eyesight, insight hindsight tools.
January 14, 2019 at 12:27 am
Lisa Murphy
What a gorgeous cover! I look forward to reading it!
Break a leg! (pencil?…quill?….) 🙂
January 14, 2019 at 12:50 am
Angie
Great idea for looking deeper into our ideas. Looking forward to reading your book. Congrats!
January 14, 2019 at 12:58 am
Shereen S.
Congratulations on your debut picture book. I like the three buzz words: eyesight, insight, hindsight. Definitely useful tools! Thank you for sharing your thought process for coming up with the idea for your story.
January 14, 2019 at 1:01 am
missvidalia Le Anne Brown
Hindsight was the easiest of the three tool for me in this exercise. Fun!
January 14, 2019 at 1:04 am
ingridboydston
A good question IS a great place to start! Thanks for yours!
January 14, 2019 at 1:10 am
photojaq
Okay… a pale rust (albino) zebra living in a zoo, yearns to be the Librarian at the local library.when she sees kids with their noses in books as they pass by.
January 14, 2019 at 1:18 am
Nancy Riley
Thanks so much for your ideas! Congratulations on your picture book!
January 14, 2019 at 1:31 am
Katie Williams
Awesome idea, and amazing picture book! Can’t wait to read it 😊
January 14, 2019 at 2:21 am
Jilanne Hoffmann
So important for kids to feel seen. AND to question why things are or aren’t a certain way. Why we see a lot of something and nothing of another, and how we can possibly do something about it. Thanks for the insight! I won’t sit around waiting for that pesky muse.
January 14, 2019 at 2:56 am
Aimee
I love the “focus” of your post!
Can’t wait to try it☺️
January 14, 2019 at 3:15 am
Karin Semler
Great idea and so inspiring to see the results from a StoryStorm writer! 🙂
January 14, 2019 at 3:54 am
Jennifer
Well said! Thanks for the inspiration.
January 14, 2019 at 4:20 am
Mirka Hokkanen
Thank you for the inspiration. Tara, I hope you are aware of what an incredible blessing storystorm is for us. I’m sure I‘m not the only one who is so incredibly inspired and has enough material to mine for months. Last year was my first year, and it exceeded my expectations. An illustrator, who believed since I was a child, that I would never have good ideas for stories, am now bursting with stories that I never knew were inside me. No one else has ever given me a gift like this. I thank you from the bottom of my heart.
January 14, 2019 at 5:11 am
Erin Le Clerc
Congrats on your book! 🙂
January 14, 2019 at 5:14 am
LeeAnn Rizzuti
Had to hide your post from my muse, but wanted to say congrats on Not Quite Snow White, Ashley.
January 14, 2019 at 6:51 am
Rebecca Colby
Lose the muse is my new motto! Love the sounds of your forthcoming book! Congrats and thanks for the inspiration, Ashley!
January 14, 2019 at 8:47 am
Clare Juliet Clare Bell
Thank you, Ashley. I really like your practice of eyesight, insight, hindsight!
January 14, 2019 at 8:58 am
Kelly Ohlert
Great way of thinking about things! Thanks for sharing!
January 14, 2019 at 9:08 am
Hélène Sabourin
I like the process. Looking forward to read your book
January 14, 2019 at 9:24 am
Megan Whitaker
Great thoughts about cultivating new ideas and looking at an idea a whole new way. Your book looks sweet! Congratulations!
January 14, 2019 at 9:58 am
Writer on the run
Adding your book to my READ list- and great suggestions. I keep a calendar with each storystorm suggestion: eyesight, insight, hindsight! Love it!
January 14, 2019 at 10:19 am
katiemillsgiorgio
I love this approach and can’t wait to read your book! Thanks for sharing!
January 14, 2019 at 10:20 am
Daryl Gottier
Thought provoking post, on many levels. Thaks so much for sharing!
January 14, 2019 at 10:25 am
kcareywrites
Thanks for helping us feel inspired and motivated!
January 14, 2019 at 10:30 am
Helen Matthews
Thanks Ashley, what a great mantra – eyesight, insight, hindsight!
January 14, 2019 at 10:38 am
Nora Fry
Love this idea. The ‘ordinary’ parts of our lives can be filled with inspiring ideas
January 14, 2019 at 10:39 am
CindyC
Great post, Ashley! So important for today. And so clever, too. Congrats!
January 14, 2019 at 10:46 am
Mary Worley
Thanks for adding to our toolboxes. This approach will be helpful. Your Snow White is on my list!
January 14, 2019 at 10:56 am
megcason1
Thank you for sharing your process with us!
January 14, 2019 at 11:03 am
marylouisealucurto
Thanks for sharing your “Inspiration Toolbox” strategy! Very inspiring and encouraging!
January 14, 2019 at 11:06 am
Ashley Bankhead
What a great way to generate ideas. Thank you for sharing what you did to come up with your book. It looks adorable.
January 14, 2019 at 11:07 am
alisongoldberg
Thanks for sharing your approach! And congratulations!
January 14, 2019 at 11:19 am
juliannahelt
Great post! Hindsight is definitely one I use often.
January 14, 2019 at 11:23 am
Garnett Natasha
Thanks, Ashley, and congratulations on Not Quite Snow White. I am curious about her story and what you’ve done with other characters like the seven dwarves.
January 14, 2019 at 11:26 am
writeforapples1
That cover is adorable! And thank for the great ideas. 🙂
January 14, 2019 at 11:31 am
tanjabauerle
Lose the muse! I love it. She can be fickle, so it’s best to take the job on ourselves. THANK YOU!!!!
January 14, 2019 at 11:32 am
Lisa Riddiough
Congratulations, Ashley!! This is wonderful. And thank you for the idea tips!
January 14, 2019 at 11:40 am
marsha e wright
How did you know that all weekend my creativity slumped? Feeling like my “muse” left the building like Elvis, I told myself I was empty of ideas even though I now have 14 Storystorm index cards notated. What kind of author am I if I can work with words but have no meaningful message within the rhythms of my stories?
Then I read your post. TAH-DAH! I DON’T NEED A MUSE. I have HOPE for myself again.
I can’t wait to read NOT QUITE SNOW WHITE. Congratulations on your PB! When I taught public school in Detroit, Michigan, I had such a time finding stories that mirrored my students. SNOWY DAY could only go so far. Keep writing, Ashley. You are truly inspiring.
January 14, 2019 at 11:41 am
Debbie Meyer
Congratulations, Ashley! Not Quite Snow White looks adorable! Very clever too. 🙂
January 14, 2019 at 11:59 am
Lori Alexander
Congrats on your debut PB, Ashley! Thanks for the tips.
January 14, 2019 at 11:59 am
Nadine Gamble
Looking forward to reading your debut! Congrats!
January 14, 2019 at 12:08 pm
Jacqueline Adams
I love that instead of thinking, “Princesses are everywhere–I’d better write about something else,” you used your process to come up with a fresh princess idea. Thanks for the help!
January 14, 2019 at 12:10 pm
Sara Fajardo
This is a really powerful way of thinking about story creation. Thank you so much for sharing your toolbox.
January 14, 2019 at 12:18 pm
Jay
Wonderful tips! Thank you and congratulations on your book.
January 14, 2019 at 12:29 pm
Anne Appert
Wonderful tips for finding ideas. Looking forward to reading your book!
January 14, 2019 at 12:29 pm
Leslie L Goodman
Tapping into “Hindsight” (or my childhood), brought back some memories with strong “first” feelings that would be good jump off places for PB manuscripts. Thank you so much!
January 14, 2019 at 12:36 pm
Suzanne Lieurance
Such a simple tip but very effective. Thanks!
January 14, 2019 at 12:41 pm
Kelly Conroy
I can’t wait to read your book! Thanks for the post.
January 14, 2019 at 12:42 pm
Mel Copeman
A great exercise to do instead of just waiting for inspiration!
January 14, 2019 at 12:49 pm
Marie Powell
Thanks for this post! I love the three-part question process and I love the narrative that led to your first picture book. May there be many more!
January 14, 2019 at 1:04 pm
Josie Liming Gawlowski
Thank you Ashley for the tips and for such a needed book!
January 14, 2019 at 1:08 pm
Laurel Ranveig Abell
Love your Not Quite Snow White!! And the Eyesight, Insight, Hindsight list is a great way to conjure ideas!
January 14, 2019 at 1:23 pm
shanah salter
can’t wait to read your book!
January 14, 2019 at 1:46 pm
annjex
The way you simplified these tips into three catchy, rhyming phrases really helps set them to memory. I liked how you outlined the way you applied them as well. Congrats on your debut!
January 14, 2019 at 2:01 pm
claireannette1
Today I’m giving your suggestions a try. I hope I come up with an idea as awesome as Not Quite Snow White. I can’t wait to read and share your book.
January 14, 2019 at 2:10 pm
Nicole Loos Miller (@beautify_life)
Love it!
January 14, 2019 at 2:22 pm
Dayne Sislen, Children's Book Illustrator
Thanks for your inspiration. I love the cover of your “Not Quite Snow White” picture book.
January 14, 2019 at 3:03 pm
Zoraida Rivera
That was not what I was expecting! Who said negatives are negative! Will try that, not now! Oh, yes, I will. LOL!
January 14, 2019 at 3:04 pm
K.A.Steed
Love the cover. Can’t wait to read your book.
January 14, 2019 at 3:35 pm
Bethanny Parker
Great tip, thanks. Your book sounds like a fun read.
January 14, 2019 at 3:44 pm
Maritza M. Mejía
Great ideas here! Thank you for sharing this.
January 14, 2019 at 3:44 pm
Marcie Rinka Wessels
What an amazing cover! Congratulations, Ashley! I love your question asking technique.
January 14, 2019 at 3:45 pm
Laura Purdie Salas
Love this toolbox set–thank you!
January 14, 2019 at 3:47 pm
Maria Bostian
Eyesight, Insight, and Hindsight! Got it. Thanks for the great post!
January 14, 2019 at 3:47 pm
stephaniewildman
Thank you. Can’t wait to read your book!
January 14, 2019 at 3:54 pm
Michelle Kashinsky
Love the inspiration toolbox. And can’t wait to read NOT QUITE SNOW WHITE. Congrats!
January 14, 2019 at 4:24 pm
Lisa Black
I love this
January 14, 2019 at 4:26 pm
Brenda Miller (@meowdemeow)
Thanks for reminding me to just look around and ask questions to get the creative juices flowing.
January 14, 2019 at 5:03 pm
leslievanzee
This advice sounds tremendously useful!
January 14, 2019 at 5:15 pm
Emma Wood
What a great trio of perspectives to consider when building on our ideas. Thanks, Ashley!
January 14, 2019 at 5:26 pm
littledbl
Love it!
January 14, 2019 at 5:32 pm
Tina Hoggatt (@tinahoggatt)
I LOVE the framework of Eyesight, Insight, Hindsight. Brilliant. Thank you for this and for reminding us that every kid wants to be seen, really seen.
January 14, 2019 at 5:36 pm
debbiemccue
Great list of questions to ask to gain hindsight and inspiration. Thanks for the post. I love the title of your book that’s coming out and am looking forward to reading it.
January 14, 2019 at 5:56 pm
Andi Butler
Thank you for such a wonderful reminder that our motivation comes from within. : ) a : )
January 14, 2019 at 5:57 pm
aidantalkin
Your book looks fantastic – thanks for the eyesight/insight/hindsight suggestions!
January 14, 2019 at 6:13 pm
Christine Irvin
Great post! Thanks!
January 14, 2019 at 6:17 pm
Laurel Goodluck
Oh… gonna try this process, especially as I am writing POV books too that this can generate more ideas. Thank you! And love your book!
January 14, 2019 at 6:25 pm
Becky Scharnhorst
Thank you for sharing your inspiration tool box with us! I love this practical approach to generating ideas. I’m usually too impatient to wait around for my muse anyway, so this is great! Congratulations on Not Quite Snow White! I look forward to reading it.
January 14, 2019 at 6:31 pm
Cindy Faughnan
Excellent exercises!
January 14, 2019 at 6:37 pm
Sarah Momo Romero
Just asking questions is a great way to start mining for ideas. Also loved seeing the adorable cover for your book. Congrats!!
January 14, 2019 at 7:05 pm
Caren Cantrell
Love the idea of eyesight combined with insight!
January 14, 2019 at 7:53 pm
Carol Angels Khan
Hey Ash, I enjoyed reading your point of view and some fantastic ideas to change the persective, and change the problem. Cheers, have a great year. xx
January 14, 2019 at 7:59 pm
Dawn
Can’t wait to read your book. Congratulations!! Thanks for the inspiration.
January 14, 2019 at 8:07 pm
SARAH Meade
Love this insightful post. The book looks adorable and that’s a great title.
January 14, 2019 at 8:20 pm
AlisonMarcotte
I love this inspiration tool box! I’ll definitely use these tools this month as I brainstorm new ideas. Thank you for the motivating post! 🙂
January 14, 2019 at 9:10 pm
Trine Grillo
I like this technique. Your new book idea is golden!
January 14, 2019 at 9:52 pm
Erika Henkart
I love the questions. So insightful and they guide the ideas so well. Thank you and congratulations on your book!
January 14, 2019 at 10:07 pm
Joana Pastro
That’s an interesting process. I’m curious to use it and see where it might take me! Thanks, Ashley!
January 14, 2019 at 10:08 pm
teresa.mi.schaefer
LOVE this post and the offered tools. look forward to your book coming out. Congrats.
January 14, 2019 at 10:10 pm
Lucy Staugler
Ashley, packing my tool box with your valuable list!!!
Thank-you!
January 14, 2019 at 10:33 pm
Jennifer Broedel (@JBroedelAuthor)
The fact the you pointed out how you ASK QUESTIONS is such a big deal. For those of us who have trouble clarifying (motivation, goals for the main character…), beginning with these questions can help us to start drafts off on a stronger foot. That’s one of my goals for the year. Also, I love the premise of your debut. Really looking forward to reading it!
January 14, 2019 at 10:33 pm
Cathy Pledger
Ashley-I loved this post. It put a different perspective on things and I am looking forward to your book debut!
January 14, 2019 at 11:26 pm
angiew.littleredhen
Very cute idea for a PB. Thanks for sharing writing tips.
January 14, 2019 at 11:39 pm
Anne LeBlanc (@AnneLeBlanc2)
This is so true – no more using the Muse as an excuse!
January 15, 2019 at 12:13 am
ccnolympia
This was quite timely for where I am at. THANK YOU for this insight and the practical tools.
January 15, 2019 at 12:21 am
RaeMcDonald
Ashley, love your three focused words…insight, eyesight, and hindsight…observation, thinking, and perspective really matter.
January 15, 2019 at 12:28 am
Amanda Malek-Ahmadi
Congratulations on your debut! Loved your thoughts on the toolbox.
January 15, 2019 at 12:58 am
storycatcherpublishing
I like the premise of your book. Great post!
January 15, 2019 at 4:05 am
heavenlyhashformoms
GreAt way to write a meaningful book!
January 15, 2019 at 7:06 am
Alexandra Hinrichs
This is a wonderful set of tools, thank you. And I can’t wait to read your book!
January 15, 2019 at 7:23 am
Amy Harding
LOVE the cover!
January 15, 2019 at 8:12 am
Katie B
Excellent toolbox tips, thanks!
Love the book cover.
January 15, 2019 at 9:04 am
narmo2400
Love the analytical steps in your tool box method! Great and informative post. Congratulations on your new book!
January 15, 2019 at 9:42 am
Anita
Love it, congratulations!
January 15, 2019 at 9:43 am
Loralee Petersen
Looking forward to Not Quite Snow White. I love fairy tale twists!
January 15, 2019 at 10:04 am
Joan Swanson
Great Advise, thanks
January 15, 2019 at 10:59 am
rgstones
Love this post and can’t wait to read your book. 🙂
January 15, 2019 at 11:22 am
pjaegly
Thank you for sharing your process. I can’t wait to gift your book to my granddaughter!
January 15, 2019 at 12:16 pm
Sarah John
I love this idea! I will give it a try!!
January 15, 2019 at 12:52 pm
Sandy Perlic
Love the cover of your book! Thanks for the insightful tips about paying attention to our world and experiences.
January 15, 2019 at 1:01 pm
Lynn Alpert
Eyesight, Insight, Hindsight – brilliant!
January 15, 2019 at 1:34 pm
shiela Fuller
The most important thing to have in the tool box is pencil and paper, because if I dont write my idea down immediately, it is gone.
January 15, 2019 at 1:37 pm
Sara Pistulka Weingartner
Wonderful post! 3 simple questions I can remember. Thank you, and congrats on the upcoming release! Look forward to reading it!
January 15, 2019 at 2:04 pm
Gretchen McLellan
Ashley, your book looks darling! I’ve never heard another writer talk about the role of dolls in her life—thanks for that “hindsight” piece. My soon to be released Button and Bundle (Knopf) has at its heart my experiences with my first friend and our dolls. The story is in part about the central role dolls play in the imaginative life and friendship of two little girls (one white, one black), and how their worlds are shaken when one must move away. (Their dolls are best friends too, and after the move one won’t play anymore. Button’s sadness is projected onto her doll.) With imagination and love, Button finds a way to honor and continue their world of play and learns that together or apart, friendship is forever.
I’m looking forward to adding your book to what I hope will be a collection of stories that have childhood dolls at their hearts. I’d love to hear suggestions from all you story stormera out there.
January 15, 2019 at 2:18 pm
michelle
Looking forward to reading this when it is released. What a great idea!
January 15, 2019 at 2:33 pm
Teresa Robeson
Congratulations to Ashley! Eyesight, insight and hindsight are awesome tools for the writer’s toolbox!
January 15, 2019 at 3:04 pm
Jenny Boyd
I love the Q/A approach! (And the Tool Box, too!) Looking forward to seeing your new book.
January 15, 2019 at 3:45 pm
Heather Kinser
“Eyesight, Insight, and Hindsight” — it’s pure brilliance! Thank you, Ashley.
January 15, 2019 at 3:46 pm
Ms. Schubé
Congratulations and thank you!
January 15, 2019 at 4:20 pm
Heather Kelso
Thank you for sharing your inspiration.
Congrats on your debut picture book.
I am going to reach into my toolbox right now and create an idea. Eyesight, Insight, and Hindsight.
January 15, 2019 at 4:28 pm
Vicki Wilke
Thank you Ashley – the three “sights” – awesome structure!
January 15, 2019 at 5:24 pm
Susan Schade
Congratulations on your book! Bring on the Inspirational Tool Box!
Thank you.
January 15, 2019 at 6:13 pm
laura516
Starting with questions and looking at things with 3 kinds of sight. Just the right inspiration for today. And fab cover. Congrats!
January 15, 2019 at 6:54 pm
Susan Orton
Ashley, your toolbox and your questioning process have kicked my brain into first gear. I’ve already put down three new ideas. I can’t wait to read NOT QUITE SNOW WHITE. It will be fun reading it and thinking how you moved through your process writing it. Much success to you!
January 15, 2019 at 7:13 pm
kjerstenhayes
Great post. Thank you!
January 15, 2019 at 10:18 pm
Mary Ann Cortez
What a great title. The book looks adorable. This was a helpful and informative post.
January 15, 2019 at 10:37 pm
Andrew Lefebvre
Great advice. Thanks.
January 15, 2019 at 11:00 pm
Melissa Stoller
Congratulations, Ashley! I love your cover! And your idea of using a toolbox focusing on eyesight, insight, and hindsight. Will do!
January 16, 2019 at 5:20 am
Freda Lewkowicz
Wonderful advice. Thank you.
January 16, 2019 at 8:50 am
Catherine Millington
Thank you for the reminder that a magical story doesn’t always come from a magical beginning, but rather from a simple beginning and lots of effort. 🙂
January 16, 2019 at 9:15 am
Brittanny Handiboe
Good thinking/writing exercise. I seem to see a lot of goo and poop related things haha. And unicorns… I wonder how I feel about that.
January 16, 2019 at 9:32 am
Monica Stoltzfus
Ashley! Such a cute pb idea! Can’t wait to read.
January 16, 2019 at 9:59 am
aliciaminor
Happy for you and I love the title and your tool box approach. I will definitely read it. More power to you.
January 16, 2019 at 10:13 am
Kathleen Cornell-Berman
Thanks for sharing your journey Ashley! Congratulations on your book!! I look forward to reading it!!
January 16, 2019 at 10:23 am
naturewalkwithgod
America is a land abounding with racial diversity. Even those of us who are raised white aren’t always truly white. Only in my 40s did I begin exploring my Native American ancestry, studying the Cherokee language and learning about the culture — past and present. So, I really like the concept you came up with for the picture book, Ashley. The cover is so appealing. –Kim
January 16, 2019 at 11:16 am
Therese Kay
I love these tools: eyesight, insight, and hindsight! And I love that you asked the question: “how did it make you feel?” Such a great question to ask!!
January 16, 2019 at 12:01 pm
Sarah Skolfield
I’ve put Not Quite Snow White on my list of books to read. Love the title!
January 16, 2019 at 1:16 pm
Poupette Smith
Thanks for the great exercise and congratulations on your first PB!
January 16, 2019 at 2:03 pm
R.J. Koehn
Love the toolbox idea! Thank you!
January 16, 2019 at 2:12 pm
curryelizabeth
I love the proactive approach vs. sitting around and waiting for inspiration to hit! And Not Quite Snow White looks wonderful. Definitely adding it to my list! Thank you!
January 16, 2019 at 2:17 pm
HSeydel
I cannot wait to read the book! Thank you for the reminder to write what’s around us.
January 16, 2019 at 3:20 pm
Judy Bryan
Thank you for the 3 sights, an excellent way to get inspiration. Congratulations on NOT QUITE SNOW WHITE…love the cover!
January 16, 2019 at 4:26 pm
readstuffnwrite
Great advice, will start using this kind of thinking to creative more ideas.
January 16, 2019 at 4:35 pm
deniseaengle
I love your title!!! Brilliant! Not Quite Snow White.
January 16, 2019 at 5:26 pm
Joannie Duris
Thank you, Ashley, for sharing your process behind the idea for NOT QUITE SNOW WHITE. Congratulations on your debut! Love the concept of starting with a question, then using our toolbox of sights to spark our own internal muse. No outside knock on the head needed.
January 16, 2019 at 6:41 pm
KRISTINA CASTILLO
Great ideas and I love the cover! Congrats!
January 16, 2019 at 7:43 pm
joyceschr
Questions are an outstanding source of inspiration for me. When stuck, I ask, “What if…?” 🙂 Thanks for the tips. Looking forward to your PB this summer!
January 17, 2019 at 2:15 am
Terri Sabol
Great cover! I love the Inspiration Tool Box idea. Thanks!
January 17, 2019 at 4:08 am
Nancy Kotkin (@Brave_New_Words)
You have an interesting process. Great example!
January 17, 2019 at 11:20 am
andromeda515
Thank you for the perspective and the tools.
January 17, 2019 at 12:01 pm
Helen
Congrats on your book, love the cover!!!
January 17, 2019 at 3:09 pm
Patricia Toht
What a great idea for a story, Ashley!
January 17, 2019 at 4:44 pm
doreenbuchinski
Eyesight, Insight, Hindsight! You’ve inspired me.
January 17, 2019 at 5:12 pm
gingermeurer
Ashley,
Thank you for sharing the origins of Tameika’s story and your story, too. Can’t wait to see the book!
January 17, 2019 at 6:06 pm
Cinzia V.
I love your idea, and can’t wait to see your book. Thanks!
January 17, 2019 at 6:48 pm
Nicole Strangman
Terrific title! Thanks for the ideas.
January 17, 2019 at 7:36 pm
Janet Frenck Sheets
I love your suggestion about beginning with questions. Thanks!
January 17, 2019 at 7:56 pm
Michele Helsel
I love being taken through your process. Thank you!
January 18, 2019 at 11:00 am
Francoise
Congratulations on your first picture book!
January 18, 2019 at 12:20 pm
Judy Cooper
Thank you for showing a new way to look at things.
January 18, 2019 at 1:38 pm
Angela De Groot
Awesome toolbox! I’ll definitely be borrowing it to fix a few of my idea generating problems.
January 18, 2019 at 3:18 pm
Megan Walvoord (@mjwalvoord2)
Thank you for the toolbox of ideas! I like the questions you ask as you go through the process.
January 18, 2019 at 5:00 pm
imagination4lf
Thank you so much for sharing your inspiration with us. I like the personal example you shared to put it all into perspective. Can’t wait to read your picture book, Not Quite Snow White.
January 18, 2019 at 6:58 pm
Sarah Maynard (@SarahDMaynard)
“Lose the muse: use your tools” is going to be my new mantra. Thank you!!
January 18, 2019 at 8:41 pm
Shawna J Tenney
Great insights! And I can’t wait to read your book!
January 19, 2019 at 9:04 am
mbhmaine
Love the three-tiered toolbox. What a great combination of tools to locate and flesh out stories. Congrats on your debut!!!
January 19, 2019 at 11:26 am
Jill
What an adorable cover and concept! I can’t wait to see your book in the world! Congratulations!
January 19, 2019 at 12:03 pm
Elizabeth Metz
This is an excellent thought exercise for the ole toolbox. I haven’t tried it on for myself yet, but I just noted it in my Storystorm journal as a reminder when I get stuck later this month. Thank you, Ashley!
January 19, 2019 at 12:53 pm
Elizabeth Davis
Congratulations on Not Quite Snow White! And thank you for the Inspiration Tool Box resource to get my creativity flowing!
January 19, 2019 at 4:39 pm
debobrienbookscom
THANK YOU! This article came at just the right time. I was struggling with coming up with another PB idea for this challenge. And when I read Ashley’s 3 basic suggestions, I thought about them a lot. As a result, I may not have a GEM of an idea, but I DO have a GERM of an idea. Thank you, Ashley.
January 19, 2019 at 4:51 pm
Laurie Bouck
Great advice, thank you!
January 19, 2019 at 5:15 pm
Janet Halfmann
Love your toolbox idea, and looking forward to reading your book!
January 19, 2019 at 5:33 pm
Cassie Bentley
Thank you for the insight into your process. This gave me ideas. Now to write and revise.
January 19, 2019 at 8:28 pm
Linda J Thomas
Thank you, Ashley, for sharing your technique of using the three sights…I’ll try it as I Storystorm! And congratulations on your picture book! The cover looks wonderful 🙂
January 19, 2019 at 11:24 pm
Jill M Proctor
Thank you, Ashley! Looking forward to reading your sweet story!
January 20, 2019 at 12:12 pm
Tiffany Painter
Your ideas are really helpful. I can’t wait to share your book with my third graders.
January 20, 2019 at 2:07 pm
Tamawi
Everyone feels “not quite” at certain points of their childhood. Interesting!
January 20, 2019 at 3:22 pm
thesheilster
Enjoyed reading about how you came up with your idea. Can’t wait to read your book.
January 20, 2019 at 3:32 pm
Judy Pressler
Great idea about the inspiration tool box. Very helpful! Can’t wait to read NOT QUITE SNOW WHITE. Will be waiting for it’s release!
January 20, 2019 at 4:55 pm
Carolyn Kraft
I really needed to read this, I think I wait too much for the muse to appear. Lose the muse – thank you!
January 20, 2019 at 7:39 pm
Cindy E. Owens
I love the three tools of your toolbox – eyesight, insight, and hindsight. The tips you offer are good. And, starting with a question, is a great way to get some ideas flowing.
Great article.
January 20, 2019 at 7:53 pm
Kelly Vavala
What a beautiful story within a story! I love your idea about not having to have a muse show up!! We wait and wait and often times it’s right there in front of us! Thank you for sharing your lovely story!
January 20, 2019 at 10:27 pm
Danielle Hicks
Love the idea of starting with questions! Your book looks beautiful. Thank you for sharing!
January 21, 2019 at 6:33 am
Rick Starkey
Love your post. Not Quiet Snow White sounds like fun. Thanks for sharing with us.
January 21, 2019 at 3:34 pm
julielacombeauthor
Congratulations on the debut! Thank you for the inspiration!
January 21, 2019 at 3:53 pm
Anna Brooks
I love how you structured this with questions! Thank you for the ideas!
January 21, 2019 at 4:31 pm
Meilssa Chupp
I love a toolbox that is easily transportable!
January 21, 2019 at 5:59 pm
Annette Walsh
Great toolbox. Love Not Quite Snow White, hair and all. I wish you every success and look forward to reading it to 5-year-olds.
January 21, 2019 at 7:05 pm
topangamaria
Great book title. Great questions. Great tool box.
January 21, 2019 at 8:01 pm
Christine Pinto
I love your tool box and I love your cover. Can’t wait to read the story!
January 21, 2019 at 10:02 pm
Angela H. Dale
Great toolbox – simple yet expansive. Congratulations and good luck on your launch.
January 22, 2019 at 1:53 am
Hillary Homzie
Ashley, I love the cover of your forthcoming picture book. Congratulations in advance. Love your vision (via your sight technique!)
January 22, 2019 at 6:30 am
jpuglow
Thank you for this post. It’s inspired me to look at surroundings differently. What can be flipped to better see a child’s world?
January 22, 2019 at 6:38 pm
Paula VanEnkevort
Thank you for the toolbox ideas – very helpful. Congratulations on NOT QUITE SNOW WHITE!
January 22, 2019 at 7:51 pm
Stephanie Lau
Fun! I’m looking forward to reading this book.
January 22, 2019 at 10:56 pm
Rhonda Whitaker
Love love, love! Your title instantly grabbed me and I really liked your walk through of how you used your tools to develop your idea! Thanks Ashley!
January 23, 2019 at 11:37 am
Emily
Wow, can’t wait for the release of NOT QUITE SNOW WHITE! My first graders will love it! Thanks for sharing your insights with us!
January 23, 2019 at 4:51 pm
Julie Rand
I love your idea of hindsight. I don’t think I’ve been challenged in that way before. Thanks for the great idea and I’m glad to know you loved your Barbies as a kid. That made me smile!
January 23, 2019 at 5:40 pm
Dani Duck
I need to start using my toolbox more often. Got an idea just reading this article! I’m sure I’ll get more quickly with this method.
January 23, 2019 at 6:35 pm
LAUREN BARBIERI
Great approach! I’m using it with a story I’m working on now
January 23, 2019 at 8:04 pm
Amanda Davis
I love the idea of the Inspiration Toolbox! Thank you, Ashley!
January 24, 2019 at 7:41 am
sharongiltrow
Great post and I love the inspirational tool box :-).
January 25, 2019 at 5:56 am
kelliejanebyrnes
I love the idea of Eyesight, Insight, Hindsight – what an easy phrase to remember that can lead to all sorts of fun ideas. Thanks for sharing!
January 26, 2019 at 9:32 am
Shel ledrew
Thank you b
January 26, 2019 at 8:41 pm
Lou
Congrats on your debut book! I think I’ll work on the hindsight first. Thanks.
January 26, 2019 at 10:12 pm
Robyn Campbell
Hey, Ash! So glad to read this. You did great. Just look at all these comments. All my love.
January 27, 2019 at 2:45 am
Robin Robb-Kraus
Thank you Ashley for a fresh perspective! Looking forward to reading your book and using questions more often to develop my writing.
January 27, 2019 at 11:26 am
Kristin Wauson
This post sent me off down a Barbie googling rabbit hole! Love the suggestion of starting with questions. Thank you!
January 27, 2019 at 5:23 pm
Joyce
This has given me some new ideas for how to look at things – remembering a workshop where we had to describe a water pitcher without using those two words.
January 27, 2019 at 7:23 pm
Maria J Cuesta
Lovely! Looking forward to read the book. ❤️
January 28, 2019 at 11:28 am
cantsing1
Can’t wait for your book to come out!
January 28, 2019 at 5:51 pm
Sharalyn Edgeberg
I like your idea of an inspiration toolbox and you made it easy to think about with the three tools of eyesight, insight, and hindsight. Thanks for sharing how you applied it to your new picture book & congratulations!
January 28, 2019 at 9:44 pm
photojaq
Oh, my goodness, my Muse heard me read that line and now I have NOTHING. NOTHING. oh gosh.
January 29, 2019 at 2:34 am
Susan Tuggy
Your advice to consider the emotional response to what I’m observing hit home. I tend to skip over ‘feelings’ and need to coax them out to give my writing depth.
January 29, 2019 at 11:27 am
Ana Crespo
Can’t wait to read your book! And thanks for the tips. ❤️
January 29, 2019 at 12:17 pm
Susie Sawyer
Ashley, I love this post. “Eyesight-Insight-Hindsight” is going on my wall of inspirational quotes and ideas (with proper credit to you, of course) :). Thank you for this inspiration!
January 29, 2019 at 1:06 pm
creationsbymit
The 3 tools are great, but it is especially helpful to see how you applied them to come up with your story idea! Thanks for sharing!!
Michele Katz Grieder
January 29, 2019 at 1:38 pm
hannahtuohyillustration
Thank you for sharing, Ashley! I’ll try to remember I always have my toolbox with me for inspiration!
January 29, 2019 at 6:02 pm
Rebecca Herzog
This is a great idea. Questions always help spark my imagination
January 29, 2019 at 10:53 pm
Carolyn
I like your focus on asking questions! And congrats on your book!
January 29, 2019 at 11:56 pm
Charlene Avery
Can’t wait to read and see your book!! Way to go. Your advice is just what I need, my focus thanks you.
January 30, 2019 at 10:09 am
Vicky Howard
Love this! Asking ourselves questions is so important!
January 30, 2019 at 5:49 pm
sallie wolf
Thanks for this insightful post.
January 30, 2019 at 7:20 pm
Kassy Keppol
Can’t wait to read this book.
January 30, 2019 at 8:38 pm
Kaitlyn Leann Sanchez
Congrats on your idea brining a reality! I LOVE the user of “sight” in various ways for a toolbox, can’t wait to try out mine 😊
January 30, 2019 at 8:48 pm
Kelly Rice Schmitt
Ashley, I am so so excited to read your upcoming book and to buy it for all my favorite little girls that need more princesses and characters that look like them. Watch out Tiana and Doc McStuffins! I also am grateful for your idea generations tips — what a fun way to approach brainstorming. Best of luck with your upcoming release!
January 31, 2019 at 1:43 am
Jocelyn Rish
I love that many of these soon-to-be published books started out as StoryStorm (PiBoIdMo) ideas. It’s so inspiring!
January 31, 2019 at 11:49 am
Stacey Corrigan
Love your process. It is definitely something I am going to try. Thanks!
January 31, 2019 at 5:18 pm
Carolyne Ruck
I’ve marked this blog to go back to again and again (this is my second visit!) I love the way you’ve broken it down to eyesight, insight and hindsight and I can really use the suggestions for applying each one. Thanks so much.
January 31, 2019 at 7:49 pm
higherthanrubies
Love the name of the book! I am part of a multi-cultural family and I am waiting for this one to come out. Thank you!
January 31, 2019 at 9:10 pm
Amanda Sincavage
I love this technique Ashley. And your book looks fabulous! What a great title! Congrats on your debut!
January 31, 2019 at 10:13 pm
Naomi Gruer
Excited to read (and gift) your book.
January 31, 2019 at 10:46 pm
Laurie Swindler
Thanks for sharing your toolbox. I might also add foresight – the ability to predict or look ahead to see what will happen to my characters.
January 31, 2019 at 11:16 pm
denitajohnson
Thank you for sharing, much inspiration.
February 1, 2019 at 6:30 am
Serge Smagarinsky
I like these. And might try adding a fourth “sight” as well: foresight.
February 2, 2019 at 3:06 pm
Becca Fleishman
Inspiration at its best- thank you ❤️
February 2, 2019 at 3:18 pm
Catherine Friess
Your blogpost has really got me thinking. We often don’t take time to look closely at our surroundings so I’ve pinned your three words on the pin board above my desk as a reminder.
Thank you for a great blogpost and for the generous giveaway Ashley :o)
February 24, 2019 at 12:04 pm
Ashley Franklin
That’s awesome! I’m glad the takeaway was pin board worthy😁. Happy writing!
February 3, 2019 at 12:53 pm
Dianne
Thank you for these ideas. They’ve got me thinking and looking and seeing.
February 3, 2019 at 3:30 pm
Johna Nicole Rossetti
Eyesight, Insight, and Hindsight — awesome! Congrats on using these tools in the creation of your book, NOT QUITE, SNOW WHITE. Cannot wait to read it. 🙂
February 3, 2019 at 6:33 pm
Buffy Silverman
Thanks for the toolbox! Love your cover–congrats on your new baby!
February 4, 2019 at 4:45 pm
loelmu
Congratulations on the new book! Great method of concocting an idea!
February 4, 2019 at 5:12 pm
Jess Bourgeois
What a great thought process, and I’m very much looking forward to reading your (much needed!) picture book!
January 13, 2020 at 10:04 am
Megan Whitaker
Your book is super cute! I checked it out this summer at our library. Love your ideas-thanks!