Recently, I was sharing with students how writers rewrite and rewrite more, trying to get our books perfect for our readers. A first grader raised her hand and sweetly commented, “Everything doesn’t have to be perfect.” What wisdom from one so young. This is exactly what Badger learned in Badger’s Perfect Garden.
As readers will discover, Badger’s garden might not have turned out as perfectly as his original vision, but it is spectacularly beautiful, thanks to serendipity, Mother Nature, and Badger’s initial work.
Badger is a perfectionist. He had planned long and worked hard for his perfect garden. He had a plan—a garden plan. But sometimes when we hold too tightly to an outcome, things take a course of their own, or in this case Mother Nature takes a course of her own.
Of course, Badger is devastated when his vision is destroyed. He does what many of us do or would like to do. He stays inside, “busying himself with this and that,” so he doesn’t have to think about his perfect garden ever again!
When Badger’s friends show him a garden surprise, Badger realizes the truth that “letting go” can be a celebration, full of jubilation. Once he lets go of the outcome of a perfect garden, he is also free to let go of worry and to enjoy “a hodgepodge of garden games, jumbly-tumbly dancing, and muffins and mulberry juice.”
Ramona Kaulitzki’s illustration of Badger as he embraces his mixed-up garden shows him caught in a swirl of flowers and vegetables. His expression is one of serene happiness. Indeed, Ramona’s art beautifully captures Badger’s feelings from beginning to end—from hopeful, studious, and excited, to dejected, to that tranquil contentment.
Writers must also learn to “let go” when a publisher purchases their story. They must surrender their story to an editor, an art director, and an artist who bring their vision to the story as well.
I sometimes use art notes in my manuscripts, but Sleeping Bear Press removes all art notes before giving a manuscript to an artist. This is part of the “letting go” and the trusting that authors need to accept. Ramona Kaulitzki understood so much of what I wanted to show. For example, I had written, “Red Squirrel helped Dormouse gather string,” with this art note: Red Squirrel and Dormouse tangle the string. With the art note gone, I prayed Ramona had a similar sense of humor to mine. She did. When the sketches arrived, I saw Red Squirrel and Dormouse tangled in string on the page and the following spread.
There are also times when the artist’s vision is slightly different from the author’s. I had written, “Weasel found twigs to make holes for the seeds,” as my original vision was for a couple of the animals to make holes. But the art only showed Weasel making holes and previously walking just one twig. When I received the art, I simply asked my editor to change the wording from “twigs” to “twig.” Ramona’s art was perfect and it was a simple thing to let go of my illustration vision and an “s.”
I did a lot of research on seeds for this book; I wasn’t sure how much information I’d use. In case the editor wanted to name specific plants, I kept a list of possible plants for Badger’s garden and images of seeds. In all my research I learned a lot, like the names of five edible burrs. We didn’t use this research in Badger’s Perfect Garden, but who knows in what future manuscript my gathered “seeds” will ‘rearrange themselves,’ just as Badger’s did.
“They just rearranged themselves,” said Red Squirrel.
“If you hadn’t planted them over there, they wouldn’t be here.”
Thank you, Tara Lazar, for inviting me to visit your wonderful website and blog. May all your plantings produce beautiful gardens!
Thank you, Marsha, for blogging today and also giving away a copy of your new book BADGER’S PERFECT GARDEN!
To enter, please leave one comment below. A random winner will be chosen in “April showers bring May flowers.”
Good luck!
Marsha Diane Arnold’s award-winning picture books have sold over one million copies and been called, “whimsical” and “uplifting.” Described as a “born storyteller” by the media, her books have garnered such honors as Best First Book by a New Author, Smithsonian Notable, Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library and state Children’s Choice awards. Recent books include Galápagos Girl, a bilingual book about a young girl growing up on the Galápagos Islands and Lost. Found., a Junior Library Guild book illustrated by Caldecott winner Matthew Cordell.
Marsha was raised on a Kansas farm, lived most of her life in Sonoma County, California, a place Luther Burbank called “the chosen spot of all this earth as far as Nature is concerned,” and now lives with her husband, near her family, in Alva, Florida. You can often find her standing in her backyard in the midst of dragonflies or purple martins swooping for insects. She can also be found at marshadianearnold.com.
301 comments
Comments feed for this article
March 19, 2019 at 8:22 am
Lindsay Maeve
This story sounds and looks beautiful. Thank you for sharing your process, Marsha.
April 16, 2019 at 6:48 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
It was my pleasure, Lindsay!
Marsha
March 19, 2019 at 8:26 am
Andria Rosenbaum
I loved hearing about the editing process you experienced. Such a give and take.Thanks so much for sharing, Marsha!
April 16, 2019 at 8:12 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
It’s a team approach, Andria, for sure.
Thanks to you.
March 19, 2019 at 8:29 am
Lisa Pavalon
Gardens teach us so many lessons!! The story sounds so cute and the illustrations look amazing! Thanks for sharing!
April 16, 2019 at 8:13 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
So true, Lisa. Gardens are a treasure trove of lessons.
March 19, 2019 at 8:31 am
Kimberly Marcus
A perfect post to read on a beautiful morning. Thank you.
April 16, 2019 at 8:13 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
🙂
March 19, 2019 at 8:39 am
Lisa Dibble
What a great story! Would love to have a copy!
April 16, 2019 at 8:14 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
Thanks, Lisa. Good luck!
March 19, 2019 at 8:41 am
EmmieRWerner
Goooood lesson for me❤️Thank you!
April 16, 2019 at 8:15 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
Do you happen to be a perfectionist, Emmie? 🙂
March 19, 2019 at 8:42 am
Joan Swanson
It’s really funny you should mention letting go of our manuscripts. I too try to make it absolutely perfect before submitting a manuscript which has been my downfall in that I haven’t submitted many of my manuscripts. Thank you for your advice!
April 16, 2019 at 8:17 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
We do try to get our manuscripts as perfect as we can, but yes, we do eventually have to let them go, Joan. Get those manuscripts out there! 🙂
March 19, 2019 at 8:43 am
Carol Munro
I think I need a lesson from Badger for my garden this year. I’m so eager to read this book, Marsha. I have it on order. Waiting. Waiting. Waiting. Must go do this and that until it arrives.
April 16, 2019 at 8:18 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
Thanks so much, Carol! I so appreciate it. Hoping you are keeping busy with this and that. Ha.
March 19, 2019 at 8:54 am
melissamiles1
This art is so beautiful, I’d want to frame it!
April 16, 2019 at 8:19 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
Isn’t it charming? I particularly love the swirl of plants at the end, with Badger happily embracing the jumble.
March 19, 2019 at 8:56 am
Claire Bobrow
I love the theme of letting go. Expectations can drive us mad! What a gorgeous book. Congratulations!
April 16, 2019 at 8:20 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
Thanks so much, Claire!
March 19, 2019 at 8:57 am
C.L. Murphy
Wow! This looks and sounds pretty perfect to me, Marsha! Can’t wait to check it out.
April 16, 2019 at 8:20 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
🙂 Thank you so much!
March 19, 2019 at 8:59 am
curryelizabeth
Oh my goodness-first of all–that book looks adorable!!! As a gardener whose garden is never quite as I envision, I can relate. And great advise about letting go. Not easy to do and I can only imagine what it feels like to send it off to an illustrator with fingers crossed that they get it. Clearly, yours did! It looks beautiful. Congrats!
April 16, 2019 at 8:22 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
Thank you, Elizabeth! Good luck with garden and letting go. 🙂
March 19, 2019 at 8:59 am
Kim Larson
What a wonderful idea. I love gardening and need to learn to let go–in more than gardening.
April 16, 2019 at 8:23 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
We all could use a lesson in letting go. 🙂
March 19, 2019 at 9:01 am
rosecappelli
Looking forward to reading this great book!
April 16, 2019 at 8:23 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
Hope you enjoy it!
March 19, 2019 at 9:02 am
supermario6
This book looks beautiful!
April 16, 2019 at 8:23 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
Thank you.
March 19, 2019 at 9:09 am
Shutta Crum
Love Marsha’s books and can’t wait to get this one. The illustrations are gorgeous. Thanks for this.
April 16, 2019 at 8:24 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
Aren’t you sweet, Shutta. Thanks so much!!
March 19, 2019 at 9:11 am
Sarah Tobias
This sounds like the perfect book to read at school as we begin preparations of a new community garden season. Maybe some teachers will let go of the fears and decide to join in the gardening fun.
April 16, 2019 at 8:24 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
Hope so, Sarah!
March 19, 2019 at 9:11 am
Sheri Radovich
The story looks fun and interesting to note that illustration notes may not get past the editor to the illustrator. I’m sure the research was helpful to writing the book and the book looks beautiful.
April 16, 2019 at 8:25 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
Research always helps. Thank you, Sheri!
March 19, 2019 at 9:13 am
Dee Knabb
What a beautiful new book and the concept of letting go is wonderful on many levels. The art is scrumptious. Thanks for sharing.
April 19, 2019 at 4:24 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
Thank you, Dee. Ah…the letting go. Difficult and wonderful.
March 19, 2019 at 9:16 am
lindaschueler
“Jumble-tumble”: I love it! Thanks for that fascinating peek into the process of making this picture book. I am really looking forward to reading it.
April 19, 2019 at 4:25 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
Thank you, Linda! Hope you enjoy the jumble-tumble of it all.:)
March 19, 2019 at 9:16 am
shannonstocker
What a sweet concept! I have a perfectionist child, so I definitely appreciate this concept. Congrats on your book!
April 19, 2019 at 4:26 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
Thank you, Shannon. I hope you and your perfectionist child (I was one too.) enjoy the book.
March 19, 2019 at 9:19 am
Wendy
Congratulations on another beautiful book, Marsh! The theme is an important one for kids and adults like me.
April 19, 2019 at 4:26 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
Thank you,Wendy. You’re so kind.
March 19, 2019 at 9:22 am
Jessica Kulekjian
The story and message behind it are brilliant. Thank you for sharing.
April 19, 2019 at 4:27 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
How kind. Thank you.
March 19, 2019 at 9:26 am
mariagianferrari
I’m sure those seeds will plant themselves in another story, Marsha! Congrats!! Looking forward to reading it!
April 19, 2019 at 4:24 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
Ha, Maria. Hope so! A story that an editor will fall in love with.
March 19, 2019 at 9:26 am
Laurie smollett Kutscera
What a stunning book with a message for all ages! Congratulations.
April 19, 2019 at 4:33 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
I always feel the best books are for all ages, Laurie. 🙂
March 19, 2019 at 9:28 am
Cynthia Way
What a wonderful story, both for young children and adult writers! Love it, thank you!
April 19, 2019 at 4:35 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
Thank you, Cynthia!
March 19, 2019 at 9:37 am
Laurie Knowlton
Thanks for reminding us about letting go…sometimes the hardest part of being an author.
April 19, 2019 at 4:36 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
I’ve known many writers who have trouble with letting go, Laurie. Let it go and it might fly!
March 19, 2019 at 9:47 am
lmconnors
This looks like a delightful book Marsha! Congratulations! I love the message of letting go; my old farmhouse is slowly teaching me a lesson similar to Badger’s.
April 19, 2019 at 4:37 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
Thanks so much. Love to hear about that old farmhouse.
March 19, 2019 at 9:48 am
Michelle
Marsha it sounds (and looks) like such a lovely story. Can’t wait to read it!
April 19, 2019 at 4:38 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
Hope you enjoy it, Michelle!
March 19, 2019 at 9:55 am
PJ Taub
Thank you Marsha for the sharing your publishing adventure with Badger. The illustrations are some beautiful and pop off the page.
April 19, 2019 at 4:38 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
You are welcome. I have been so lucky with the illustrators my editors choose.
March 19, 2019 at 9:55 am
Suzanne Lewis
Let it go…let it grow! So simple, so right on. Love Marsha’s approach!
April 19, 2019 at 4:40 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
You said it so well, Suzanne. Thanks so much.
March 19, 2019 at 9:59 am
kirsticall
Yay! This book looks lovely!
April 19, 2019 at 4:41 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
Yay! So glad you think so! 🙂
March 19, 2019 at 10:07 am
Kelly Vavala
Really enjoyed this post so thank you for sharing! Let it go to those who know best! Very interesting! Your story sounds so beautiful and whimsical!
April 19, 2019 at 4:47 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
Ahhh. Thank you, Kelly.
March 19, 2019 at 10:09 am
Rita Russell
What a perfect post! Thank you, Marsha, for letting us know that your writer worries are just like ours. 🙂 .
April 19, 2019 at 4:48 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
A perfect post, huh. I see what you did there, Rita.
March 19, 2019 at 10:13 am
Becky Ross Michael
Such a lovely children’s book…especially for spring!
April 19, 2019 at 4:49 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
A lot of moms and grandmas were buying it for Easter baskets at my booksigning, Becky. 🙂
March 19, 2019 at 10:17 am
Arlene Schenker
What a beautiful book with a great “message” for kids (and adults)! can’t wait to read it.
April 19, 2019 at 4:49 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
Hope you enjoy it, Arlene.
March 19, 2019 at 10:18 am
judyrubin13
Thank you, Marsha, for sharing Badger’s inspirational year accidental journey to his perfect garden. What a delightful tale of success.
April 19, 2019 at 4:50 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
Love that phrase, “accidental journey.” Sometimes those are the best. 🙂
March 19, 2019 at 10:28 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Can’t improve on Mother Nature! Love your badger, friends and their beautiful handiwork. Congrats Marsha!
April 19, 2019 at 4:51 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
Thanks so much, Cathy.
March 19, 2019 at 10:36 am
Jane Dippold
I loved hearing about your process with the art and, as an artist, I always try to add more to a great story. Can’t wait to read your book!
April 19, 2019 at 4:51 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
So glad you enjoyed the post, Jane.
March 19, 2019 at 10:36 am
June Sengpiehl
This is a lovely, appropriate, spring book. I enjoyed reading about it.
April 19, 2019 at 4:51 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
So glad, June! BTW, that’s a perfect spring name too.
March 19, 2019 at 10:38 am
storycatcherpublishing
Poor Badger! I think there’s a little bit of perfectionist in all of us, but sometimes you have to let Nature just take it’s course and just roll with it…
Great post!
April 19, 2019 at 4:52 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
I think so too.:)
March 19, 2019 at 10:38 am
Kelly Carey
I LOVE hearing the background on deleted illustration notes 🙂 Thanks for sharing — this book looks adorable!
April 19, 2019 at 4:52 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
You are welcome!
March 19, 2019 at 10:38 am
Mary Warth
Thanks Marsha, this was such an interesting post! The before and after of illustration notes was fun to read about!
April 19, 2019 at 4:53 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
Glad you enjoyed it, Mary.
March 19, 2019 at 10:38 am
Angie
Beautiful! I love this book already! Can’t wait to read it! Congratulations and thanks for reminding us to do our best and then let it go.
April 19, 2019 at 4:53 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
Beautifully said.
March 19, 2019 at 10:41 am
Julie K Rubini
What a great post and story. Letting go and leaving it up to the universe have been huge lessons for me on many fronts, including as a writer. Thanks for sharing Marsha!
April 19, 2019 at 4:54 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
That’s so, so true, Julie.
March 19, 2019 at 10:55 am
danielledufayet
Congrats, Marsha, on another beautiful, heartfelt and sweet book. I love the message! We all need to learn how to let go more – that’s when the magic happens! 🙂
April 19, 2019 at 4:54 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
You are so right, Danielle!
March 19, 2019 at 11:04 am
debobrienbookscom
Thank you for the blog, Diane. I appreciate reading the back story to the book.
April 19, 2019 at 4:54 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
You are welcome!
March 19, 2019 at 11:05 am
Shirley Menendez
What a great post. As a perfectionist I can see myself in this picture book. Thanks for sharing.
April 19, 2019 at 4:55 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
A little bit of Badger in you, huh, Shirley. 🙂
March 19, 2019 at 11:05 am
Olivia
Oh what a wonderful post today! I went in with all my stuff and left uplifted and lighter for it…thank you Tara for posting and thank you Marsha for encouraging me to keep on moving😊bless you both😊
April 19, 2019 at 4:56 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
I’m so happy you felt that way, Olivia.
March 19, 2019 at 11:09 am
marsha e wright
Marsha, this is another Marsha who’s thanking you for such grand inspiration about the “dance” PB authors do with illustrators. Your books with their musical language and humor typify the best in writing for children. I’ll be buying your books and burying myself in them for a while until they find themselves wrapped in pretty paper to give as gifts. I’m SO GLAD I’ve found you on Tara’s blog! My prayers for continued success in your writing journey. And congratulations on another book born for young readers!
April 19, 2019 at 4:56 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
That is the sweetest post, Marsha. I will hold it near my heart.
March 19, 2019 at 11:14 am
Nicole Vuong
Sounds like Badger is like me! Cute idea!
April 19, 2019 at 4:57 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
Badger Nicole. 🙂
March 19, 2019 at 11:18 am
BrookeVS
Such a cute story! Especially for those of us that strive for perfection. Thanks for sharing 😄
April 19, 2019 at 4:57 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
You are most welcome!
March 19, 2019 at 11:21 am
Laurel Ranveig Abell
Needed this today! Thanks, and lovely story!
April 19, 2019 at 4:57 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
So glad the post nourished, Laurel.
March 19, 2019 at 11:22 am
Virginia Rinkel
I so have to read this book, so I don’t get carried away on ‘perfection’ – which is a real problem for me! Thank you for writing this one!
April 19, 2019 at 4:58 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
As a student recently told me at a school presentation – “Not everything has to be perfect.” 🙂
March 19, 2019 at 11:23 am
yepearson@gmail.com
I am already charmed by this book. It looks wonderful.
April 19, 2019 at 4:59 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
Hope the reading of it charms you too.
March 19, 2019 at 11:28 am
Mary Lou Johnson
My garden and I–and my granddaughter–need your book! I loved your article and your information about what happened with your illustration notes.
April 19, 2019 at 4:59 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
Wonderful!
March 19, 2019 at 11:31 am
Nancy Eckerson
Those illustrations warm my heart! I can’t wait to read the book!
April 19, 2019 at 4:59 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
Aren’t they the sweetest, Nancy?
March 19, 2019 at 11:34 am
Lori Mortensen
Marsha, what a treat to learn more about this lovely book and see the amazing interiors. Congratulations on your new release, practically perfect in every way. 🙂
April 19, 2019 at 5:00 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
Such a supportive critique partner you are, Lori! 🙂
March 19, 2019 at 11:35 am
Mary Wagley Copp
Almost time to garden…thanks for the inspiration, on so many fronts! Loved this post.
April 19, 2019 at 5:00 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
Hope your gardens are beautiful – imperfect or perfect.
March 19, 2019 at 11:36 am
authoryvonafast
Thank you for a great post about letting go. And thanks for sharing examples from the back and forth between writer and illustrator.
April 19, 2019 at 5:01 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
You are most welcome.
March 19, 2019 at 11:36 am
Lucretia S.
Thank you for sharing your experiences and insights, Marsha. You’ve provided a timely message–on multiple levels–with lovely words enhanced by gorgeous art. Congratulations!
April 19, 2019 at 5:01 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
Thanks so much for your comments, Lucretia.
March 19, 2019 at 11:36 am
Susan Macartney
What a lovely exploration of the need “to let go” in this wonderful marriage between author and illustrator! Congratulations!
April 19, 2019 at 5:01 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
Thank you, Susan!
March 19, 2019 at 11:39 am
Pamela Harrison
Letting go is hard, but something amazing happened when you did! I can’t wait to read your lovely book. Congratulations!
April 19, 2019 at 5:02 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
Letting go can bring lovely surprises!
March 19, 2019 at 11:52 am
Kathy Halsey
Marsha, I am in love with Badger and this book. Congrats. Badger and his garden share such a great message w/readers. TY.
April 19, 2019 at 5:03 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
Ahhh. Thank you. I am rather enamored by Badger too. But we writers must be enamored by our characters!
March 19, 2019 at 12:00 pm
Sylvia Grech
Loved reading your post! Gives me courage and inspiration for my writing. Looks like a lovely book!
April 19, 2019 at 5:03 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
Garden on, Sylvia!
March 19, 2019 at 12:01 pm
Susan Johnston
This book looks adorable!
April 19, 2019 at 5:03 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
Thanks, Susan.
March 19, 2019 at 12:02 pm
Christine Pinto
What a lovely inspiration for both kids and authors! Thank you!
April 19, 2019 at 5:04 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
Thanks to you, Christine.
March 19, 2019 at 12:03 pm
Kassy Keppol
I love the illustrations and this concept, thank you for sharing; I can’t wait to see the book.
March 20, 2019 at 7:42 am
Rene` Diane Aube ~ Children's Author
Oh my goodness! I think you wrote this book AND post just for me! Perfectionistic characteristics sure are peski-mistic characteristics! Did I just say that? *ripe this morning 🙄*
Your book looks adorable and thank you for loosening my fingers on my words and visions.
Happy Spring! 😀
April 19, 2019 at 5:04 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
Hope you enjoy it!
March 19, 2019 at 12:07 pm
JenFW
One badger’s perfect is another badger’s disaster, I guess. Cheers on this delightful book!
April 19, 2019 at 5:04 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
Ha. Yes, I guess so. Thank you!
March 19, 2019 at 12:07 pm
Sheila Wipperman
What a wonderful book and with such amazing illustrations. Great theme–letting go is often hard to do but needs to be done in many areas of life! Congrats!
April 19, 2019 at 5:05 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
So true, Sheila.
March 19, 2019 at 12:08 pm
Maile McCarthy
This looks so lovely– a character that goes straight to my heart. I can’t wait to read it!
April 19, 2019 at 5:05 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
It’s all about the characters, isn’t it?
March 19, 2019 at 12:16 pm
Rona Shirdan
The book looks wonderful. I can’t wait to read it! Thanks for sharing!
April 19, 2019 at 5:05 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
Thank you, Rona.
March 19, 2019 at 12:30 pm
sara fajardo
What a lovely book. Thanks for sharing the process of bringing it together and leaving room for the illustrator.
April 19, 2019 at 5:06 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
You’re welcome!
March 19, 2019 at 12:35 pm
colleenrkosinski
sounds like a wonderful story!
April 19, 2019 at 5:07 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
Thank you!
March 19, 2019 at 12:39 pm
Lizzie Maxwell Harris
Wow, can I relate! thanks for writing this wonderful book!
April 19, 2019 at 5:07 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
Thanks to you!
March 19, 2019 at 12:47 pm
LeeAnn Rizzuti
So fun that this was today’s blog post as I just added BADGER’S PERFECT GARDEN to my Anticipation/Request board on Pinterest. Thanks for sharing these insider tidbits, Marsha.
April 19, 2019 at 5:08 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
Oh! Thanks so much for posting on Pinterest, LeeAnn!
March 19, 2019 at 12:48 pm
Michelle Andersen
What a beautiful book and message. Congratulations!
April 19, 2019 at 5:08 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
Thank you.
March 19, 2019 at 1:09 pm
Patti Ranson
May all of our books germinate and be as beautiful as Badger’s garden!
April 19, 2019 at 5:09 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
Absolutely!
March 19, 2019 at 1:11 pm
Genevieve Petrillo
Oh, Badger. You are SOOOO much like my Mom. We doggies all know that perfect is overrated.
Love and licks,
Cupcake
April 19, 2019 at 5:10 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
Ha! It’s absolutely true. Tell your Mom. Perfect is overrated. 🙂
March 19, 2019 at 1:17 pm
kathydoherty1
Oh my gosh! Do I love this book! I’m just like Badger.
April 19, 2019 at 5:10 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
There are a lot of Badgers running about. 🙂
March 19, 2019 at 1:53 pm
chardixon47
Thank you, Marsha, for showing the contribution of writer and artist to create a beautiful picture book. Your lyrical language and Ramona’s illustrations tweak my senses. I look forward to reading Badger’s garden story 🙂
April 19, 2019 at 5:11 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
So glad!
March 19, 2019 at 1:57 pm
Julie Mondi
A garden brings so much joy and inspiration! I can’t wait to read your book.
April 19, 2019 at 5:12 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
Gardens are a good metaphor for writing.
March 19, 2019 at 2:03 pm
Jennifer Lane Wilson
Thank you for sharing about the process of letting go and how your art notes weren’t shared with the illustrator.
April 19, 2019 at 5:13 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
You’re welcome!
March 19, 2019 at 2:15 pm
writeknit
Too many of us are blinded by perfection – what a wonderful book and message of kids and the people that read to them!
April 19, 2019 at 5:14 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
So glad you think so.
March 19, 2019 at 2:21 pm
Henrietta Choplin
O. M. Goodness, Thank You for this!
April 19, 2019 at 5:14 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
O.M. Gosh. You’re welcome. 🙂
March 19, 2019 at 2:24 pm
Jennifer Bower
What a wonderful story and such incredible artwork. Thank you for an inspiring post!
April 19, 2019 at 5:14 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
Thanks for joining us here.
March 19, 2019 at 2:28 pm
Tina Hoggatt (@tinahoggatt)
What a delightful post! I have been looking forward to this beautiful book.
April 19, 2019 at 5:15 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
That’s so kind, Tina. Thanks so much!
March 19, 2019 at 2:37 pm
Lenora Biemans
Wonderful reminder about being open to new possibilities!
April 19, 2019 at 5:16 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
Let’s all remember to be open to those new possibilities.
March 19, 2019 at 2:39 pm
Lynn Becker
Interesting to hear about the art notes! And how this publisher doesn’t even send them along. Thanks. Can’t wait to read the book.
April 19, 2019 at 5:16 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
Thank you, Lynn.
March 19, 2019 at 3:02 pm
Mary York
“Out of the mouths of babes!” Simple, logical, and timely for my perfectionist tendencies!~ Thank you!
April 19, 2019 at 5:17 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
🙂 Thanks to you!
March 19, 2019 at 3:06 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
Ha, Carol. Thank you for your support!
March 19, 2019 at 3:51 pm
jrohlf6162
This book looks real cute! We are trying to get our 2 and 4 year old to love nature so this would be great!
April 19, 2019 at 5:18 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
Just take them out in nature. I’m sure they’ll fall in love. 🙂
March 19, 2019 at 4:29 pm
Kellie
What a beautiful book with a beautiful (and incredibly important) message. Thank you for reminding us, too, that as writers we also need to let go. I tend to be a bit precious – and I know I need to start pulling back.
April 19, 2019 at 5:18 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
Many of us have this challenge, I think.
March 19, 2019 at 4:40 pm
Debra Kempf Shumaker
I so, so, so LOVE garden stories and can’t wait to read this one!
April 19, 2019 at 5:18 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
It’s always nice to be in a garden, whether a real one or a book.
March 19, 2019 at 4:54 pm
Cheryl Johnson
Beautiful story and I love the idea of your “seeds” possibly becoming new manuscripts!
April 19, 2019 at 5:19 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
I often talk about ideas being like seeds to little ones during school visits.
March 19, 2019 at 4:55 pm
William Ferguson
What a delightful looking book! I love the “letting go of perfection” theme as well as how things grow.
April 19, 2019 at 5:19 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
Thanks so much, William.
March 19, 2019 at 5:01 pm
David McMullin
This looks wonderful!
April 19, 2019 at 5:20 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
Thanks so much, David.
March 19, 2019 at 5:04 pm
Garnett Natasha
I like things perfect, too. Badger has a lesson for me. I look forward to reading Badger’s Perfect Garden. Thank you, Tara and Marsha.
April 19, 2019 at 5:20 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
Me too, Garnett. I like things perfect. That’s probably why I wrote this-to teach myself a lesson.:)
March 19, 2019 at 5:10 pm
Andrea Mack
This book looks lovely! Thanks for sharing about how the illustrations and text worked together to create the final version!
April 19, 2019 at 5:21 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
You are most welcome.
March 19, 2019 at 5:35 pm
Tracy Hora
Wonderful post! I loved hearing about the editing process for different books. I think I’ve fallen in love with Badger’s Perfect Garden. Can’t wait to read it!
April 19, 2019 at 5:21 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
I’m glad you have! Hope you enjoy it.
March 19, 2019 at 6:41 pm
Meghan Burch
Can’t wait to read this book! Thanks for sharing!
April 19, 2019 at 5:21 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
Hope you enjoy the garden!
March 19, 2019 at 7:00 pm
carmelamccainsimmons
I need the lesson from your book, Marsha. Letting go has been a struggle for me, but the more I loosen my grip, the lovelier the results of my artistic endeavors.
April 19, 2019 at 5:22 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
Beautifully stated!
March 19, 2019 at 7:42 pm
RebeccaTheWriter
Thank you for sharing your beautiful book! Can’t wait to read it! Maybe it will help let go of some of my own perfectionist tendencies 🙂
April 19, 2019 at 5:22 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
I wrote it to try to let go of mine. 🙂
March 19, 2019 at 8:16 pm
Melissa Bailey
Thank you, Marsha, for sharing your insights as a writer, especially regarding leaving the illustrating to the illustrator and the unexpected nuances the artist brings to the story as a result. Love the sneak peeks of both the story and the illustrations. Simply gorgeous! Will have to read this one ASAP!
April 19, 2019 at 5:23 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
Thank you, Melissa. I hope you and yours enjoy it!
March 19, 2019 at 8:48 pm
Jacquelyn Carberry (@JackieCarberry2)
Sounds delightful and the illustrations look wonderful. I love the idea that you let go enough of your vision to slightly change a line to match the illustrator’s interpretation!
April 19, 2019 at 5:23 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
Yep! Need to let go. 🙂
March 19, 2019 at 9:23 pm
Emily Wayne (@heyemilywayne)
This looks adorable!
April 19, 2019 at 5:23 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
Thank you!
March 19, 2019 at 9:42 pm
Kim
So interesting to hear about the process of letting go as an author. This book sounds amazing!
April 19, 2019 at 5:24 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
Thanks so much.
March 19, 2019 at 10:26 pm
Brenda Huante
This sounds like such a fun book!
April 19, 2019 at 5:24 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
I had fun writing it!
March 19, 2019 at 10:30 pm
seschipper
Kindergarten and firsts graders are well known for their words of wisdom!!! Thank you for sharing this delightful post!! Cheers for “Badger’s Garden”!…and to letting go!!! 🙂
April 19, 2019 at 5:25 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
Oh, my, yes they are! My writing began with a weekly column entitled “homegrown treasures” and I very often used kindergarten and first graders’ words of wisdom. 🙂
March 20, 2019 at 1:28 am
tiffanydickinson
This is a beautiful book and a good lesson. Thanks for sharing.
April 19, 2019 at 5:25 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
Thank you for reading the post.
March 20, 2019 at 3:27 am
Norah
How gorgeous. Everything doesn’t have to be perfect!
April 19, 2019 at 5:25 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
So true.
March 20, 2019 at 6:51 am
sarahheturadny
Congratulations on your book! I think one of the things I am looking forward to most when I get my first book contract is seeing how the artist illustrates!!
April 19, 2019 at 5:26 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
It’s always exciting!
March 20, 2019 at 8:07 am
Lucky Jo Boscarino
Perfectionism can be a hugh stumbling block. Looking forward to reading about Badger’s garden.
April 19, 2019 at 5:26 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
So true.
March 20, 2019 at 9:29 am
Melquea
Such a beautiful book! I love this post so much. I have a book I am in the middle of making now and I am starting to get into the perfection head space. If I cling too closely to that, then I will freeze and never finish what I started! Thank you for that generous reminder.
April 19, 2019 at 5:27 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
Let it be a mess at first, then work toward making it perfect, then let go.
March 20, 2019 at 9:35 am
Carol Wolf
I just love this story, and can’t wait to read the whole thing!
April 19, 2019 at 5:35 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
Thanks so much, Carol.
March 20, 2019 at 11:25 am
ptnozell
This looks like a perfect picture book, for springtime or any time!
April 19, 2019 at 5:35 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
So kind of you to say!
March 20, 2019 at 11:49 am
Linda
What beautiful illustrations and just right for this time of year.
April 19, 2019 at 5:36 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
The illustrations are wondrous, aren’t they? They draw us in.
March 20, 2019 at 2:17 pm
Lisa Riddiough
What a wonderful story. The illustrations are so sweet. How interesting that Sleeping Bear removes all art notes before sending the ms to the illustrator. Thank you for sharing.
April 19, 2019 at 5:36 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
Yes. It was a surprise to me when I learned this.
March 20, 2019 at 7:01 pm
Laurie L. Warchol
Hi Diane- I just love the illustrations and can’t wait to read this story.
April 19, 2019 at 5:37 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
Thanks so much, Laurie!
March 20, 2019 at 7:46 pm
Janet Smart
OH, this sounds like just the perfect book! Wonderful story and illustrations.
April 19, 2019 at 5:37 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
Thank you!
March 21, 2019 at 2:03 am
Maria Marshall
I love gardening and have found that whether you want to let go of perfection, or not, Mother Nature (and her animal friends) have a way of changing your plans anyway. But that adorable daffodil growing in the lawn or the strange location of a new columbine make life fun. Thank you for sharing a peek into your process.
April 19, 2019 at 5:38 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
🙂 So absolutely true! Thanks for sharing your gardening story.
March 21, 2019 at 8:38 am
Hannah Bartel
This would be such a cute book to read to my children!
April 19, 2019 at 5:38 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
I hope you all enjoy it, Hannah!
March 21, 2019 at 12:11 pm
Joanne Roberts
It looks like your ilustrator has done a marvelous job. I really need to heed that little girl’s advice about perfectionism…and I think your garden metaphors will help me do just that. Thanks a “bunch!”
April 19, 2019 at 5:39 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
You are welcome a “bunch.” 🙂
March 21, 2019 at 12:21 pm
Lauri Meyers
Marsha, it looks lovely. Thank you for sharing how you had to let go do the book to come to life.
April 16, 2019 at 8:25 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
Thanks, Lauri. I loved sharing with you all.
March 21, 2019 at 1:49 pm
Beth Ashley
What a beautiful (and important!) message for our children. I can’t wait to read this lovely book.
April 19, 2019 at 5:39 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
Hope you enjoy!
March 21, 2019 at 6:49 pm
Akula Harish
What a thoughtful and artful picture book. I can’t wait to buy this book. It seems like a perfect book – not just for kids but for perfectionist adults like me 🙂
April 19, 2019 at 5:40 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
I think the best children’s books are for all of us and I hope this one is too. Thanks so much!
March 21, 2019 at 8:59 pm
Chelle Martin
What a beautiful idea for a book. I love gardens and gardening. Not just flowers, but vegetables, too!
April 19, 2019 at 5:41 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
Me too, but flowers are my favorite. There are a few vegetables in there too. 🙂
March 21, 2019 at 10:10 pm
doreenrobinson
What a beautiful book! The idea of letting go and not having everything be perfect is such a great lesson for children and for us adults, too! Thank you for sharing this!
April 19, 2019 at 5:41 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
You are so welcome.
March 21, 2019 at 11:08 pm
marty
A perfect time to begin thinking about gardens! This sounds like such a fun book and the message is one we all need to remember. Can’t wait to read it.
April 19, 2019 at 5:41 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
We timed it for spring. 🙂
March 22, 2019 at 3:01 am
Lynn Baldwin
This looks like an adorable book and just perfect for spring!
April 19, 2019 at 5:41 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
Ha. Just said that. Thank you, Lynn.
March 22, 2019 at 4:24 am
Pamela
I love the animals all working together to make a garden.
April 19, 2019 at 5:42 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
Aren’t they cute?!
March 22, 2019 at 8:46 am
Nicole Strangman
Wow; what a wonderful concept for a PB and just in time for Spring
April 19, 2019 at 5:42 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
Thanks so much, Nicole.
March 22, 2019 at 12:18 pm
Jenny Boyd
This is such a cute story with a great message, too! I liked seeing your art note and how the illustrator envisioned your vision once the art note had been removed.
April 19, 2019 at 5:42 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
Glad you found it interesting.
March 22, 2019 at 4:56 pm
Joyce Frank
Can’t wait to read this!
April 19, 2019 at 5:43 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
Hope you enjoy it, Joyce! Badger and friends are waiting for you!
March 22, 2019 at 6:11 pm
dorothywiese
Beautiful story; beautiful illustrations.
On Tue, Mar 19, 2019 at 7:22 AM Writing for Kids (While Raising Them) wrote:
> Tara Lazar posted: ” by Marsha Diane Arnold Recently, I was sharing with > students how writers rewrite and rewrite more, trying to get our books > perfect for our readers. A first grader raised her hand and sweetly > commented, “Everything doesn’t have to be perfect.” What wis” >
April 19, 2019 at 5:43 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
Thanks so much.
March 22, 2019 at 8:27 pm
Trine Grillo
I think it is important for us to know that you did research on seeds and edible burrs. You were knowledgable and prepared. Way to be PROACTIVE!!
April 19, 2019 at 5:44 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
Thanks, Trine. I always do research on my books even those fiction that seem simple. 🙂
March 23, 2019 at 12:06 pm
Deb Cushman
“They just rearranged themselves” I love this! Wish my garden seeds would do the same.
April 19, 2019 at 5:45 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
I’m sure your garden’s lovely -in straight rows or jumbly.
March 23, 2019 at 9:28 pm
Natalie Lynn Tanner
MARSHA: I LOVE this post SO MUCH!!! I TRULY needed to hear it today! Like Badger, I am also a perfectionist; I hold on to my manuscripts, afraid to let go until they are “perfect.” THANK YOU for the inspiration to plant the seeds and then let go–trusting they will flourish and grow a BEAUTIFUL garden!!!! I NEEDED THIS SO MUCH!!! THANK YOU!!! I CAN’T WAIT to read this story! The illustrations are SO LOVELY!!!
April 19, 2019 at 5:47 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
I’m so glad you found the post helpful, Natalie! Your post makes my day.
March 24, 2019 at 10:03 am
Lou
Although your book is about Badger, you’ve CLEARLY snuck into my garden and have written about me! This perfectionist grows more humble with each gardening season. Thanks for connecting it to my writing.
April 19, 2019 at 5:48 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
Ha! Glad you enjoyed the post, Lou.
March 24, 2019 at 5:16 pm
laura516
What a lovely metaphor for gardening, writing, and life! I’ll be using this book during my after school garden club for elementary students!
April 19, 2019 at 5:48 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
That’s wonderful, Laura! So glad you think it will be helpful!
March 25, 2019 at 7:43 am
Carolyn Currier
This looks like a fantastic book for my little perfectionists as well as a good reminder for me. Thank you for sharing.
April 19, 2019 at 5:49 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
So many little perfectionists around. 🙂 Enjoy!
March 25, 2019 at 10:01 am
Amanda Sincavage
These illustrations are darling, and what a great message for all of us! Congrats Marsha!
April 19, 2019 at 5:49 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
Thanks so much, Amanda.
March 26, 2019 at 7:46 am
Michelle O'Hara Levin
This looks like the PERFECT book for the little perfectionists in so many of us. Thank you!
April 19, 2019 at 5:50 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
Hope so! Thank you, Michelle.
March 26, 2019 at 2:11 pm
Susan Schade
I love this post. Thank you!
April 19, 2019 at 5:50 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
You are most welcome.
March 27, 2019 at 6:01 pm
Michelle Kashinsky
Lovely, can’t wait to read!
April 19, 2019 at 5:50 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
Enjoy Mother Nature’s fun.
March 28, 2019 at 8:39 pm
Gail Hedrick
Perfect story, lovely art, wonderful publisher and your comments were so generous to we dreamers off figuring out the magic part of picture books. Thanks so much!
April 19, 2019 at 5:51 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
Thank you, Gail. Sleeping Bear Press really is a delight to work with.
March 28, 2019 at 10:06 pm
Dana Atnip
What lovely illustrations, and a book that’s close to my own heart (gardening, plus the need for everything to be ‘just so’) Congratulations, Marsha and Ramona!
April 19, 2019 at 5:51 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
I can relate to the “just so” thinking. 🙂
April 2, 2019 at 8:11 pm
Judy Sobanski
This gives me hope that my stories will “rearrange themselves” into something marvelous! I’m looking forward to reading this adorable book!
April 19, 2019 at 5:52 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
🙂 All best to you and your books.
April 19, 2019 at 5:16 pm
Rani Iyer (@iyerani)
A delightful book and an encouraging message. Thank you for sharing with us!
April 19, 2019 at 5:52 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
Thanks to you, Rani, and all of the others who read the post and support kid’s books.
April 19, 2019 at 5:56 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
Thanks to all of you for reading the post and sharing your thoughts. I SO appreciate it. I’m a bit slow responding as family passings and challenges happened in March, but seeds will find a new place to grow. Thank you Tara for having me!
May 2, 2019 at 1:24 pm
Penny Parker Klostermann
I”m a Marsha fan, for sure! I can’t wait to read this one!
May 7, 2019 at 8:23 pm
Marsha Diane Arnold
You are so sweet, Penny. Thanks so much.