When people ask me when I first knew I wanted to be a writer, I share a story about a dream I had over 12 years ago. An actual dream. A dream that woke me up at 2am and had me jumping out of bed to write it down so I wouldn’t forget. I wasn’t trying to be a writer at the time. I’m guessing I just wanted to share my dream with my husband and sons. But I loved it. LOVED it. So I wrote it down.
My dream was about a cow who accidentally left her farm and (unknowingly) created chaos wherever she went. I thought this was funny because whenever I see cows, they never really seem to be doing anything. They’re just sort of standing there. Not playing. Or frolicking. I’ve rarely even seen them walking. I thought it could be funny to have a picture book with a cow character who is “just standing there” but in an unusual place for a cow to be. What sort of chaos would that cause?
I’ve always been charmed by cows. They seem so sweet and curious to me. One of my favorite photos of my husband Mark was taken during a trip to England. I had wanted to get a picture of the beautiful scenery, but before we knew it, Mark was surrounded by cows. I joked, “Maybe they think you’re the farmer?” In the photo, I imagine the cows thinking, “Hey, what’s going on? Can we play?”
I think a lot of cow humor, like in Doreen Cronin and Betsy Lewin’s CLICK, CLACK, MOO (one of my favorite picture books) and even with the Chick-fil-A cows, is how the cows are acting like cows for the most part, but there is a suggestion that there is more going on than we can see.
One of my favorite Far Side comic strips illustrates this perfectly…
In early drafts of my manuscript, hide-and-seek was just a small part of the story, the opening scene. All the cows were playing together, but Bessie got distracted and accidentally left the farm. (I had a running list of “cow games” that I could possibly use for other Bessie stories, like “cow patty-cake” and “cow tag.” 🙂 The idea was that these cows were doing more than we realized, just like the Far Side cows. But in my early versions, after Bessie left the farm, she wasn’t playing the game anymore.
After I joined a critique group and started getting feedback from other writers, I noticed that the game of cowhide-and-seek was getting the most attention and compliments. Several revisions later, I finally realized the entire story could be about the game. And that the reason Bessie accidentally leaves the farm could be because she is looking for the perfect hiding spot.
So back to my dream. I wasn’t a writer at the time, but something about that idea got me started. I probably did share the dream with my family, but I also started writing. I feel like I learned how to be a writer with Bessie. Bessie and I have been through a lot—revisions, submissions, rejections, more revisions, and so on. But how special to have the idea that inspired me to become a writer end up as my debut picture book. It’s a dream come true. Literally.
Thanks for sharing your journey, Sheri…and congratulations on COWHIDE-AND-SEEK…which releases TOMORROW!
You can win a copy of Sheri’s debut! Just leave a comment below to enter. A winner will be randomly selected very soon!
GOOD LUCK!
Sheri Dillard is a children’s author and preschool teacher/librarian. She lives in Atlanta, GA, with her husband Mark, three sons, and a 100-pound puppy named Captain, who is not so good at hiding. Cowhide-and-Seek is her first book.
Visit her at sheridillard.com, on Twitter @sheridillard and Instagram @sheridillard.
288 comments
Comments feed for this article
May 6, 2019 at 9:07 am
laura516
What an inspiring dream-come-true story! It’s got is all: persistence, determination, and a cow 🙂 Congratulations! I can’t wait to read it.
May 6, 2019 at 6:51 pm
Sheri Dillard
Haha! Yes, a cow. In this instance, just as important as the persistence and determination. 🙂 Thanks, Laura!
May 6, 2019 at 9:07 am
mariagianferrari
Hooray, Sheri & welcome to the world, Bessie! Happy almost book birthday!! So excited to be the first one to comment too!! ❤ ❤
May 6, 2019 at 6:53 pm
Sheri Dillard
Thanks, Maria! You’ve known Bessie for a looong time! Thanks for celebrating with me! xoxo 🙂
May 6, 2019 at 9:08 am
Valarie Giogas
As an early critiquer of this story, I cannot wait to read it in it’s final version. CONGRATS, Sheri.
May 6, 2019 at 6:55 pm
Sheri Dillard
Hooray!! Thanks, Val!! 🙂
May 6, 2019 at 9:08 am
CindyC
Congrats Sheri! Your book looks delightful. Can’t wait to read.
May 6, 2019 at 6:55 pm
Sheri Dillard
Thank you, Cindy! 🙂
May 6, 2019 at 9:08 am
mariagianferrari
Oh–I tied with my friend, Laura Renauld!! 🙂
May 6, 2019 at 6:52 pm
Sheri Dillard
So close!! 🙂
May 6, 2019 at 9:09 am
karinlarson
Congratulations! I enjoyed reading about your journey. Terrific cover!
May 6, 2019 at 6:56 pm
Sheri Dillard
Thank you! I love the cover, too! Jess Pauwels is so talented! 🙂
May 6, 2019 at 9:12 am
Lenora Biemans
I love hearing about your process and your dream come true. Congratulations!
May 6, 2019 at 6:57 pm
Sheri Dillard
Thanks, Lenora! 🙂
May 6, 2019 at 9:12 am
d
great post and wonderful story all about how strong and how right our subconcious is in the night. We think he sleeps along with us but oh, how wrong we are about that, the subconscious is up and runnin’ all of the time. And those who can catch it,and hold on tight, make magic. Thanks for such an inspirin’ story!
May 6, 2019 at 6:58 pm
Sheri Dillard
Love it! Thank you! 🙂
May 6, 2019 at 9:13 am
Ink Bottle Studio
Awesome story about your story!! Love it!
May 6, 2019 at 6:58 pm
Sheri Dillard
Thank you!! 🙂
May 6, 2019 at 9:15 am
Ernie Tuesday
So fun! Love it! My one cow book stars a wingwalking Holstein!
May 6, 2019 at 7:00 pm
Sheri Dillard
Ooh, wow– that’s a brave cow! 🙂
May 6, 2019 at 9:17 am
beckylevine
What a great post about getting to the heart of a story!
May 6, 2019 at 7:00 pm
Sheri Dillard
Thanks, Becky! 🙂
May 6, 2019 at 9:19 am
beckylevine
What a wonderful post about getting to the heart of a story!
May 6, 2019 at 9:20 am
Debra K Shumaker
I’m so excited about this book! And I grew up on a dairy farm so I absolutely adore cows! 🙂 Congrats!!!!!
May 6, 2019 at 7:01 pm
Sheri Dillard
Woohoo for dairy farms! Do you have a favorite cow story? 🙂
May 6, 2019 at 9:24 am
Angie
Cute! Cows make great characters! Love it that you GOT OUT OF BED and wrote the idea down. Good job! Congratulations!
May 6, 2019 at 7:03 pm
Sheri Dillard
Haha! Always keep pen/paper handy so you don’t have to stumble around in the dark! 🙂
May 6, 2019 at 9:24 am
Linda Staszak
Great story! Your book sounds wonderful. I can’t wait to read it.
May 6, 2019 at 7:04 pm
Sheri Dillard
Thanks, Linda! 🙂
May 6, 2019 at 9:24 am
June Sengpiehl
What an interesting story. Such fun to read.
May 6, 2019 at 7:04 pm
Sheri Dillard
Thank you, June! 🙂
May 6, 2019 at 9:26 am
June Sengpiehl
What an interesting story, such fun to read.
May 6, 2019 at 9:26 am
Jennifer Lane Wilson
Love this idea and cow humor in general!
May 6, 2019 at 7:06 pm
Sheri Dillard
I love cow humor! So fun! And I remember having an elephant joke book as a kid that I loved. Elephant humor is pretty awesome, too! 🙂
May 6, 2019 at 9:27 am
June Sengpiehl
What an interesting story and I enjoyed reading it.
May 6, 2019 at 9:27 am
Laurel Ranveig Abell
Such a clever idea!! So glad it’s gonna be on the shelves. I, too, love and appreciate cows and cow humor!! Moooove on over Click, Clack, Moo! Make some room for Cowhide and Seek!
May 6, 2019 at 7:07 pm
Sheri Dillard
Haha! I see what you did there. Mooovelous! 🙂
May 6, 2019 at 9:28 am
Angela De Groot
Sheri, thank you for sharing your story. Congrats on your release. Never thought of the Far Side as a source of pb inspiration, but makes sense.
May 6, 2019 at 7:08 pm
Sheri Dillard
Thanks, Angela! I guess inspiration can come from anywhere! 🙂
May 6, 2019 at 9:30 am
Garnett Natasha
Congratulations, Sheri. I hope there will be a story about a 100 LB dog…
May 6, 2019 at 7:09 pm
Sheri Dillard
Haha! Me, too! (I already have a manuscript ready… 🙂
May 6, 2019 at 9:33 am
Wendy
I love reading about your inspiration! My mother-in-law is terrified of cows! But I love them (vegetarian!)
May 6, 2019 at 7:11 pm
Sheri Dillard
Thanks, Wendy! I wonder why she is terrified? I guess they ARE pretty large animals! But so sweet, I think! 🙂
May 6, 2019 at 9:34 am
lindaschueler
I just had a dream this past week about a picture book manuscript, and I am hoping this will be the one that gets me published! You have inspired me.
May 6, 2019 at 7:12 pm
Sheri Dillard
Aww, that’s awesome!! Good luck!! 🙂
May 6, 2019 at 9:36 am
Sylvia Grech
What a great story! Thanks for sharing! Congrats!
May 6, 2019 at 7:15 pm
Sheri Dillard
Thanks, Sylvia! 🙂
May 6, 2019 at 9:36 am
Mary Worley
Congratulations! This is adorable. I love how much you’ve thought about cows, too. 🙂 You’re right. They’re up to something.
May 6, 2019 at 7:16 pm
Sheri Dillard
Haha! That’s right! Gotta keep an eye on them! 😉
May 6, 2019 at 9:37 am
supermario6
This sounds wonderful! Congrats!
May 6, 2019 at 7:17 pm
Sheri Dillard
Thank you! 🙂
May 6, 2019 at 9:39 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
I laughed at least TEN times just reading this post, so I know your book must be hilarious. Can’t wait! Did you contemplate “cow tipping” as part of your story? 😉
May 6, 2019 at 7:18 pm
Sheri Dillard
Hmm, interesting question. What is the proper amount to tip a cow? 15%? 20%? 😉
May 6, 2019 at 9:43 am
Cathy C. Hall
I just went to Sheri’s book launch and storytime debut yesterday so I could get my very own copy of COWHIDE AND SEEK and I loved hearing about her dream. Wish everybody could’ve been at the launch–it was mooovelous! 🙂
May 6, 2019 at 7:19 pm
Sheri Dillard
Yay! Thanks, Cathy! It was so great having you there! xoxo 🙂
May 6, 2019 at 9:43 am
C.L. Murphy
This sounds so fun! Can’t wait to check it out. Congrats, Sheri!
May 6, 2019 at 7:20 pm
Sheri Dillard
Thank you!! 🙂
May 6, 2019 at 9:44 am
June Sengpiehl
What an interesting story. I enjoyed reading it.
May 6, 2019 at 9:45 am
June Sengpiehl
What an interesting story. I enjoyed reading it.
May 6, 2019 at 9:45 am
Christina Shawn
This is such an inspirational story. I started in a similar way and hope to stand where you are one day soon!
Thank you for sharing your story.
May 6, 2019 at 7:22 pm
Sheri Dillard
Thanks, Christina! And best of luck to you! 🙂
May 6, 2019 at 9:46 am
Beverly Lyle Patt
Awesome! The other Far Side with cows that we love is a group of them driving in a car past a group of people standing in a field and the cows all saying ‘yak, yak, yak!” Because who hasn’t driven past cows and said, “Moooo?”
May 7, 2019 at 6:41 am
Sheri Dillard
Oh my goodness, that is hilarious! (I just looked it up.) Yak, yak, yak! 🙂
May 6, 2019 at 9:51 am
aturner513
We have always had cows around and this story sounds spot on and funny. I can’t wait to read it. I bet the illustrations are hilarious if what you’ve show here is any indication.
May 7, 2019 at 6:43 am
Sheri Dillard
Aww, thanks so much! And yes, Jess Pauwel’s illustrations are so funny! She’s got a great sense of humor! 🙂
May 6, 2019 at 9:56 am
Christine Pinto
What a fun idea! The moment I heard the title I knew you had something there!
May 7, 2019 at 6:43 am
Sheri Dillard
Hooray! Thanks, Christine! 🙂
May 6, 2019 at 10:00 am
Debbie Meyer
What a dream come true!!! I think this sounds like a genius idea, Sheri. I’m so happy for you. And those adorable illustrations that Jess created are perfect. I can not wait to get my hands on a copy of this book. 🙂
May 7, 2019 at 6:51 am
Sheri Dillard
It all feels so dreamy still! Thanks, Debbie!
May 6, 2019 at 10:05 am
betlw
Sounds like a funny and cute book. What a wonderful experience for you–your first published picture book.
May 7, 2019 at 6:51 am
Sheri Dillard
Thank you! 🙂
May 6, 2019 at 10:05 am
colleenrkosinski
Love this!
May 7, 2019 at 6:51 am
Sheri Dillard
Thanks, Colleen! 🙂
May 6, 2019 at 10:14 am
Lauri Fortino
Your book sounds (and looks) adorable! Congratulations!
May 7, 2019 at 6:52 am
Sheri Dillard
Thank you so much! 🙂
May 6, 2019 at 10:17 am
Suzanne Lewis
Congratulations on your debut picture book, Sherri! Sounds like a fun, and funny book!
May 8, 2019 at 5:52 pm
Sheri Dillard
Thanks, Suzanne! 🙂
May 6, 2019 at 10:19 am
jennifermaryg
Love how it all started with a dream! Thanks for sharing the evolution of Cowhide and Seek! 🙂
May 8, 2019 at 5:52 pm
Sheri Dillard
Thank you for reading! 🙂
May 6, 2019 at 10:20 am
Becky Scharnhorst
Cows really are one of the funniest animals. How can you not love those giant slobbery noses and big, clunky bodies? Thanks for sharing your inspiration for the story with us! I’m looking forward to reading this one.
May 8, 2019 at 5:54 pm
Sheri Dillard
I know, right?? They’re so charming! 🙂 Thanks, Becky!
May 6, 2019 at 10:24 am
Laura Clement
What fun!
May 8, 2019 at 5:54 pm
Sheri Dillard
Thanks, Laura! 🙂
May 6, 2019 at 10:31 am
Joan Longstaff
A really great post – love how your dream led you to the world of writing. I want to play Cowhide and Seek, it looks like a lot of fun!
May 8, 2019 at 5:56 pm
Sheri Dillard
Thanks, Joan! One of the teachers dressed up as a cow for our COWHIDE-AND-SEEK storytime day, and the kids loved “finding Bessie!” 🙂
May 6, 2019 at 10:31 am
Reed Ambrose
Congrats Sheri! What a mooving story!
May 8, 2019 at 5:56 pm
Sheri Dillard
🙂 Thanks, Reed!
May 6, 2019 at 10:33 am
nicolesalterbraun
Hilarious! How cool that a dream turned into your debut book!
May 8, 2019 at 5:57 pm
Sheri Dillard
Thank you!! 🙂
May 6, 2019 at 10:33 am
Tosha Baker
Hi Sheri you are an amazing person doing amazing things . Keep up the good work ❤️
May 8, 2019 at 5:58 pm
Sheri Dillard
Hi Tosha! Thank you so much! 🙂
May 6, 2019 at 10:34 am
Olivia
Sheri I grew up on a farm and love that you too
Your dream and wrote it down…congratulations and blessings
May 8, 2019 at 5:58 pm
Sheri Dillard
Thanks, Olivia! 🙂
May 6, 2019 at 10:35 am
Kyle McBride
I think this idea is so fun. Can’t wait to read it.
May 15, 2019 at 7:20 pm
Sheri Dillard
Thank you, Kyle! 🙂
May 15, 2019 at 7:21 pm
Sheri Dillard
Thanks, Kyle! 🙂
May 6, 2019 at 10:39 am
photojaq
What a fun beginning to a writing career. I can see what a delight to kids this will be, imagining how it would be to play hide and seek with a cow! Good luck on the next cow-game themed books.
May 15, 2019 at 7:22 pm
Sheri Dillard
That’s so nice of you to say! 🙂 Thank you!
May 6, 2019 at 10:45 am
andreesantini
Congratulations Sheri, and so glad you kept at it, your book looks adorable and I love the title and cover.
May 15, 2019 at 7:22 pm
Sheri Dillard
I’m so glad I kept at it, too! 🙂 Thank you!
May 6, 2019 at 10:45 am
Laurie Warchol
This looks like a really fun read! Can’t wait !
May 15, 2019 at 7:29 pm
Sheri Dillard
Thanks, Laurie!! 🙂
May 6, 2019 at 10:49 am
Danielle Dufayet
The book looks and sounds so fun. I’m sure kids will love it and I look forward to reading it! Congrats!
May 15, 2019 at 7:30 pm
Sheri Dillard
Thanks, Danielle! 🙂
May 6, 2019 at 11:11 am
Mylisa Larsen
Love that cover. And idea.
May 15, 2019 at 7:30 pm
Sheri Dillard
Thank you, Mylisa! 🙂
May 6, 2019 at 11:14 am
Rona Shirdan
Thanks for sharing your journey and congratulations on your debut book!
May 15, 2019 at 7:30 pm
Sheri Dillard
Thanks, Rona! 🙂
May 6, 2019 at 11:18 am
Brenda Huante
Thank you for sharing your story. Your book sounds like a lot of fun!
May 15, 2019 at 7:31 pm
Sheri Dillard
Thank you, Brenda! 🙂
May 6, 2019 at 11:24 am
Melanie Ellsworth
I love cow books! Great story about how this cow book came to be. Congratulations!
May 15, 2019 at 7:31 pm
Sheri Dillard
I love cow books, too! Thanks, Melanie! 🙂
May 6, 2019 at 11:26 am
Gabi Snyder
Thanks for sharing your inspiring story, Sheri. And congrats on COWHIDE AND SEEK. It sounds hilarious! (And that Far Side comic strip is one of my all-time favorites, too.)
May 15, 2019 at 7:33 pm
Sheri Dillard
Thanks, Gabi! (The Far Side is so awesome!)
May 6, 2019 at 11:29 am
Nancy Ferguson
Sheri, What a joyful story of your dream come true! I will not look at cows the same way. Thanks for sharing.
May 15, 2019 at 7:33 pm
Sheri Dillard
Thank you, Nancy! 🙂
May 6, 2019 at 11:29 am
Marla
Thank you for sharing. It sounds like this book was meant to be! & it looks adorable…
May 15, 2019 at 7:34 pm
Sheri Dillard
Aww, thank you for saying so! It feels that way. 🙂
May 6, 2019 at 11:34 am
Cassie Bentley
I love books about cows and the play on the word cowhide.
May 15, 2019 at 7:34 pm
Sheri Dillard
Thank you, Cassie! 🙂
May 6, 2019 at 11:36 am
tiffanydickinson
Sheri, this is a great story and Cowhide-and-Seek looks like so much fun. Congratulations on your debut, and thanks for sharing!
May 15, 2019 at 7:35 pm
Sheri Dillard
Thank you so much, Tiffany! 🙂
May 6, 2019 at 11:47 am
ShellyHY
Awww – I LOVE the premise of this story! I can’t wait to read it!💗
May 15, 2019 at 7:35 pm
Sheri Dillard
Yay! Thanks, Shelly! 🙂
May 6, 2019 at 11:48 am
Lydia Lukidis
This looks adorable! Great concept…
May 15, 2019 at 7:36 pm
Sheri Dillard
Thank you, Lydia! 🙂
May 6, 2019 at 11:50 am
Donna Gwinnell Lambo-Weidner
Proof that dreams do come true! Looking forward to FINDING Bessie in my bookstore. All the best to you, Sheri!
May 15, 2019 at 7:36 pm
Sheri Dillard
Haha! Thanks for SEEKING her out, Donna! 🙂
May 6, 2019 at 11:59 am
Sheila Wipperman
Congrats on your “dream come true” story, Sherri! Love the play on words title, too. Look forward to checking it out.
May 15, 2019 at 7:37 pm
Sheri Dillard
Thanks so much, Sheila! 🙂
May 6, 2019 at 12:31 pm
LeeAnn Rizzuti
Congratulations, fellow cow enthusiast. This one is definitely going on my to-read list.
May 15, 2019 at 7:38 pm
Sheri Dillard
Ah, a fellow cow enthusiast! Awesome! 😉
May 6, 2019 at 12:37 pm
susanzonca
My journey started with a dream as well. So good to hear your personal story and see your dream shared with the world.
May 15, 2019 at 7:39 pm
Sheri Dillard
That’s great, Susan! It’s important to pay attention to our dreams– all of them! 🙂
May 6, 2019 at 12:38 pm
Peggy Archer
Congratulations! This looks like such fun. 🙂
May 15, 2019 at 7:39 pm
Sheri Dillard
Thank you, Peggy! 🙂
May 6, 2019 at 12:40 pm
Linda Mitchell
ADORABLE! The dream, the love of cows (I’m from western NY — how can you not love cows?!) and the finished book. Congratulations and enjoy every moment of talking about this book with kids and their grown ups.
May 15, 2019 at 7:40 pm
Sheri Dillard
Thank you, Linda! And I agree– how can you not love cows?? 🙂
May 6, 2019 at 12:45 pm
writeknit
Thanks for sharing your story and your book. I can’t wait to get it for my grandsons!
May 15, 2019 at 7:40 pm
Sheri Dillard
Yay! Thank you! I hope they like it! 🙂
May 6, 2019 at 12:50 pm
sara fajardo
What a delightful story behind the story. Thanks for sharing your writing journey.
May 15, 2019 at 7:41 pm
Sheri Dillard
Thanks, Sara! 🙂
May 6, 2019 at 1:01 pm
Sara Matson
Oh, that looks like such a fun book. Can’t wait to read it!
May 15, 2019 at 7:41 pm
Sheri Dillard
Thank you, Sara! 🙂
May 6, 2019 at 1:04 pm
Candace Spizzirri
Congratulations, Sheri! Looks so adorable!🎉
May 15, 2019 at 7:42 pm
Sheri Dillard
Yay! Thanks, Candace! 🙂
May 6, 2019 at 1:20 pm
M.A. Cortez
Sounds like such a fun story. I am also fascinated by cows. I even got chased by one when I was 5. Maybe she wasn’t chasing me, maybe she was playing tag.
May 15, 2019 at 7:43 pm
Sheri Dillard
Haha! Oh my goodness though! As much as I love cows, I don’t think I would like being chased by one! But yes, maybe it was cow tag… 😉
May 6, 2019 at 1:34 pm
Karol Ruth Silverstein
I love cows and your book sounds delightful. Can’t wait!
May 15, 2019 at 7:43 pm
Sheri Dillard
Thanks, Karol! 🙂
May 6, 2019 at 2:09 pm
Judy Sobanski
Sounds like there’s some laughs to find in this hide n’ seek story! Adorable illustrations! I can’t wait to read this!
May 15, 2019 at 7:44 pm
Sheri Dillard
Thanks, Judy! I love Jess’s illustrations, too. She’s so talented! 🙂
May 6, 2019 at 2:14 pm
Lori Alexander
This is absolutely adorable. Congrats on following your dream!!
May 15, 2019 at 7:44 pm
Sheri Dillard
Thanks, Lori! 🙂
May 6, 2019 at 2:16 pm
Mary York
Cow-a-bunga, Sheri! I’m sure you’re too young to know the “Howdy Doody” TV show, but it was a term used by Buffalo Bob. I think it means “Wow!” What a cute idea for a picture book.
May 15, 2019 at 7:45 pm
Sheri Dillard
Haha! I know Howdy Doody! Cow-a-bunga to you, too! 🙂
May 6, 2019 at 2:20 pm
Kim Larson
Love the title. Sounds adorable. Looking forward to reading it. Congratulations, Sheri!
May 15, 2019 at 7:46 pm
Sheri Dillard
Thank you, Kim!! 🙂
May 6, 2019 at 2:24 pm
Jennifer Bower
Congratulations Sheri! Thanks for a such an inspiring post!
May 15, 2019 at 7:46 pm
Sheri Dillard
Thanks, Jennifer! 🙂
May 6, 2019 at 2:33 pm
Kathryn Hagen
Great title and premise for your book. Congratulations, and keep dreaming!
May 23, 2019 at 8:26 am
Sheri Dillard
Thanks, Kathryn! Let’s all keep dreaming! 🙂
May 6, 2019 at 2:56 pm
kathydoherty1
This is my kind of book . . . fun and silly! And what a great cover!
May 23, 2019 at 8:27 am
Sheri Dillard
Yay! Thank you!! 🙂
May 6, 2019 at 3:05 pm
fireurchin
This is the best back story I’ve heard that relates directly to the story growing and revising! This story sounds like so much fun, too. Who doesn’t remember playing hide and seek and stories around when we did? Reminds me also of one part of a very old favorite by Syd Hoff – in Danny’s Dinosaur when he is trying to hide and is too big. Can’t wait to see this book. The cover art looks perfect.
bonnie lambourn
May 23, 2019 at 8:41 am
Sheri Dillard
Thank you so much, Bonnie! And I agree about the cover art. It was really fun to watch the process of creating it. The team at RPK and Jess did such a great job. I love it! 🙂
May 6, 2019 at 3:21 pm
marsha e wright
Tossing confetti and popping champagne to celebrate your debut PB! You must be soaring. Your backstory is inspiring and proof that we’re in a marathon, not a sprint. Thank you for your candor and transparency. Sheri, every time I see a cow on the Kansas wheat fields, I’ll be watching for their game of Hide-and-Seek! I look forward to reading and sharing your book. Congrats! Wishing you continued success in your writing journey….
May 23, 2019 at 8:45 am
Sheri Dillard
Aww, what a sweet post! Thank you so much, Marsha! 🙂
May 6, 2019 at 3:35 pm
Gail Hedrick
Honestly, you had me at the title, but how terrific and generous to share the book from your original idea forward. Congrats on so many levels-enjoy the ‘ride’!
May 23, 2019 at 8:46 am
Sheri Dillard
Will do! Thanks, Gail! 🙂
May 6, 2019 at 3:56 pm
Shelly Wilson
That is so fantastic! What a wonderful author story.
May 23, 2019 at 8:46 am
Sheri Dillard
Thanks, Shelly!! 🙂
May 6, 2019 at 4:21 pm
Lynne Marie
OMG what a fun book — gotta love hiding cows 🙂
May 23, 2019 at 8:47 am
Sheri Dillard
Haha! The idea of hiding cows just makes me laugh! 🙂 Thanks, Lynne Marie!
May 6, 2019 at 4:29 pm
Mirka
This book sounds hilarious! Thanks for sharing the journey of how it came about.
May 23, 2019 at 8:48 am
Sheri Dillard
Thank YOU for reading it, Mirka! 🙂
May 6, 2019 at 4:35 pm
Dee Knabb
Sheri, your book rocks. Can’t wait to read it. Congrats on your success!
May 23, 2019 at 8:49 am
Sheri Dillard
Yay! Thanks so much, Dee! 🙂
May 6, 2019 at 4:44 pm
Sheri Radovich
Sounds like your book took some funny twists and turns and more than one edit to get it out there. Good luck with your release and sales.
May 23, 2019 at 8:51 am
Sheri Dillard
Yes, this book did take many twists, turns, and edits! But it reminds me that it’s all worth it! 🙂 Thanks, Sheri!!
May 6, 2019 at 4:56 pm
Sherri Jones Rivers
I love how that early morning idea came to fruition in a darling picture book. Cows are funny to me, too. I hear that people who have cows love them dearly, although they don’t seem to have a lot of personality. But, obviously, YOUR COW is full of personality. I really need to win this book because my name is Sherri, too!
May 23, 2019 at 9:12 am
Sheri Dillard
Hi Sherri! (And a “Sheri” posted right before you, too– must be a sign of good luck! 🙂
May 6, 2019 at 5:26 pm
rgstones
Adorable title. Can’t wait to read it!
May 23, 2019 at 9:12 am
Sheri Dillard
Thanks so much!! 🙂
May 6, 2019 at 5:42 pm
Danielle Hammelef
This book looks fun to read and the illustrations are adorable. I love how you were able to write down your idea and turn it into a book.
May 23, 2019 at 9:13 am
Sheri Dillard
Thanks, Danielle!! 🙂
May 6, 2019 at 6:05 pm
Kellie
I love this story and thank you for sharing the process you went through from dream to publication. You can never have too many cow stories!!
May 23, 2019 at 9:13 am
Sheri Dillard
I agree! 🙂 Thanks, Kellie!!
May 6, 2019 at 6:10 pm
Abi
Aww I love this story of how COWHIDE-AND-SEEK came to be. Congratulations on your debut, Sheri! I’m excited to read it.
May 23, 2019 at 9:14 am
Sheri Dillard
Thank you, Abi!! 🙂
May 6, 2019 at 6:53 pm
marty
This sounds like a fun read! Congrats!
May 23, 2019 at 9:15 am
Sheri Dillard
Yay! Thanks, Marty!! 🙂
May 6, 2019 at 7:02 pm
Melissa Sears
Your story is amazing!
May 23, 2019 at 9:15 am
Sheri Dillard
Thanks, Melissa!! 🙂
May 6, 2019 at 7:19 pm
srjohannes1
Loved seeing this evolve over the years. Congrads!
May 23, 2019 at 9:16 am
Sheri Dillard
Thank you!! xoxo 🙂
May 6, 2019 at 7:44 pm
authoryvonafast
Thanks for sharing how this book came to be! And congratulations on your debut!
May 23, 2019 at 9:17 am
Sheri Dillard
Thank you!! 🙂
May 6, 2019 at 8:01 pm
Cindyb
Sounds like a fun book! Congratulations!
May 6, 2019 at 9:51 pm
tammisauer
MOORAY! 🎉
May 23, 2019 at 9:18 am
Sheri Dillard
LOVE it! Mooray! Thanks, Tammi!! 🙂
May 23, 2019 at 9:17 am
Sheri Dillard
Thank you!! 🙂
May 6, 2019 at 8:05 pm
Nancy Riley
This looks like so much fun! Good luck!
May 23, 2019 at 9:31 am
Sheri Dillard
Thanks, Nancy!! 🙂
May 6, 2019 at 8:10 pm
suehodara
Cowabunga! Congrats on turning your dream into your debut.
May 23, 2019 at 9:31 am
Sheri Dillard
Thank you! And cowabunga to you, too!! 🙂
May 6, 2019 at 8:34 pm
Erik Ammon
Thanks for sharing your journey! I love cows (and stories that go with them) too! Probably a combo of Farside and living around farms.
May 23, 2019 at 9:32 am
Sheri Dillard
Thanks, Erik!! 🙂
May 6, 2019 at 8:56 pm
Chelle Martin
Congratulations Sheri! I also love cows. Can’t wait to read your book.
May 23, 2019 at 9:33 am
Sheri Dillard
Thanks, Chelle!! 🙂
May 6, 2019 at 8:59 pm
Genevieve Petrillo
Mom plays hide and seek with me all the time. But I am not allowed out without my leash, so… no chance for me to wander off the farm. Or out of the apartment. Lucky cow…. #goodtimes
Love and licks,
Cupcake
May 23, 2019 at 9:34 am
Sheri Dillard
Haha! Thanks, Cupcake! (And Genevieve!) 🙂
May 6, 2019 at 9:04 pm
Noelle McBride
Those story ideas don’t always arrive at a convenient time, do they? My pockets are filled with scribbles on post it notes when I arrive home from teaching. I hope you are keeping your journal by your bedside!
May 23, 2019 at 9:35 am
Sheri Dillard
So true!! And yes, I do have a notebook nearby now! And cheers to pockets full of scribbles! Good luck to you! 🙂
May 6, 2019 at 9:48 pm
tammisauer
Mooray! 🎉
May 23, 2019 at 9:36 am
Sheri Dillard
Yay and mooray!! 🙂 Thanks, Tammi!!
May 6, 2019 at 9:57 pm
writersideup
Congrats, Sheri (and Jess!)! LOVE that it came from a dream. I have a book for which its seed also came from a dream 🙂 Just LOVE the whole premise and it looks adorable!
May 23, 2019 at 9:37 am
Sheri Dillard
Thanks so much!! 🙂
May 6, 2019 at 10:19 pm
Katie Giorgio
How cute…can’t wait to read it!
May 23, 2019 at 9:37 am
Sheri Dillard
Thanks, Katie!! 🙂
May 6, 2019 at 11:43 pm
Sandy
What a great idea for a book! Thanks for sharing your story.
May 23, 2019 at 9:47 am
Sheri Dillard
Thanks, Sandy!! 🙂
May 7, 2019 at 3:18 am
Lisa
Congrats Sheri!
Looking for are to reading about Bessie’s adventures off the farm!
– Lisa
May 23, 2019 at 9:47 am
Sheri Dillard
Thank you, Lisa!! 🙂
May 7, 2019 at 6:25 am
julielacombeblog
Thank you for the inspiration. This sounds like a moovelous book! Can’t wait to add it to my shelves (because moo doesn’t love cow puns?!)
May 23, 2019 at 9:48 am
Sheri Dillard
I moo! (I mean, “I do!”) 🙂
May 7, 2019 at 6:44 am
Amber Webb
The picture of the cow behind a tree and the cover and title are just hilarious! Ideas really can be found anywhere you are willing to “seek.” Can’t wait to read!
May 23, 2019 at 9:49 am
Sheri Dillard
Love it! “Seeking” ideas! Thanks, Amber!! 🙂
May 7, 2019 at 8:49 am
Tracy Hora
Love your ‘dreams come true’ story. So inspiring. Can’t wait to read it! Sounds so fun!
May 23, 2019 at 9:50 am
Sheri Dillard
Thanks, Tracy!! 🙂
May 7, 2019 at 8:58 am
Susan Johnston
Congrats, Sheri! The book looks adorable.
May 23, 2019 at 9:50 am
Sheri Dillard
Yay! Thanks, Susan!! 🙂
May 7, 2019 at 12:50 pm
Michelle O'Hara Levin
This is SUCH a cute concept. Congrats on all your hard work and now publication!!
May 23, 2019 at 9:52 am
Sheri Dillard
Thanks, Michelle!! 🙂
May 7, 2019 at 1:22 pm
Cinzia V.
Congrats on the book! Love your story.
May 23, 2019 at 9:52 am
Sheri Dillard
Thank you, Cinzia!! 🙂
May 7, 2019 at 2:00 pm
Toni Weeks
This is so inspiring, not to mention downright funny. Can’t wait to meet Bessie–and laugh some more!
May 23, 2019 at 9:53 am
Sheri Dillard
Yay! Thanks, Toni!! 🙂
May 7, 2019 at 3:40 pm
Ashley Congdon (@AshleyCCongdon)
This looks fun! Can’t wait to read this one. I enjoy reading book debuts as they remind me to put them on my library request list 🙂.
May 23, 2019 at 9:54 am
Sheri Dillard
Aww, that’s great! I love libraries!! Thanks, Ashley!! 🙂
May 7, 2019 at 3:46 pm
Langi Lala Studios
That cow is so cute! Even if I don’t win, this is a must-get for me!
May 23, 2019 at 9:55 am
Sheri Dillard
Yay! Thank you, Langi! And I agree– Jess did such a wonderful job with Bessie! Such a cutie! 🙂
May 7, 2019 at 5:44 pm
Carole Calladine
Love the idea of Cowhide and Seek. Congratulations on your debut with Bessie.
May 23, 2019 at 9:55 am
Sheri Dillard
Thanks, Carole!! 🙂
May 7, 2019 at 5:47 pm
Myrna Foster
What a cute cover! Thank you for sharing your story!
May 23, 2019 at 9:56 am
Sheri Dillard
Thanks, Myrna!! 🙂
May 7, 2019 at 6:03 pm
Darcee Freier
How encouraging, Sheri. Thanks for sharing your story. I love that you and Bessie grew up together, and think the title and idea are hilarious.
May 23, 2019 at 10:02 am
Sheri Dillard
Thanks so much, Darcee! I love that my kids “grew up” with Bessie, too. Even though she wasn’t a book back then, they knew her story and loved her. 🙂
May 7, 2019 at 6:18 pm
SJ Stauf
Love our cows. We watched a herd gathered in an Oregon field and the rancher’s dog was barking and intimidating the group. One brave cow broke from the herd, charged and challenged the dog. The brave cow stopped a few feet from the dog and looked back at the herd, as if to say, “let’s get him, guys!” But the rest turned and ran in the opposite direction. There was only a cloud of dust and running derrieres . Happy ending: Rancher called and scolded the dog.
I can easily understand your inspiration. Loved the photo with Hubby.
Sign me: Almost vegan.
May 23, 2019 at 10:04 am
Sheri Dillard
Great story! You might have yourself the beginnings of a picture book there! 🙂
May 7, 2019 at 8:24 pm
Catherine Mlodzik
I would love this book! I would love this book! My friend who teaches out in a rural district and sometimes cows just show up. Her stories are so funny to this city teacher. Such a wonderful idea!
May 23, 2019 at 10:06 am
Sheri Dillard
Oh, I love that!! How funny that the cows just show up! 🙂 They are so smart to go to school! 🙂
May 7, 2019 at 9:14 pm
Janet A Bryce
This looks like such a fun book. My PreK kids would love the cows. We play hide and seek on the playground all the time.
May 23, 2019 at 10:09 am
Sheri Dillard
PreK kids are so awesome! Thanks, Janet!! 🙂
May 7, 2019 at 9:22 pm
pjaegly
Loved reading your story and i think your story idea is charming. I can’t wait to read it. I love cows too.
May 23, 2019 at 10:10 am
Sheri Dillard
Thank you!! 🙂
May 7, 2019 at 9:28 pm
pollyrenner
Congrats Sheri! Thank you for sharing your journey:>
May 23, 2019 at 10:10 am
Sheri Dillard
Thank YOU for reading it! 🙂
May 7, 2019 at 9:52 pm
Karan Greene
So much fun!
May 23, 2019 at 10:10 am
Sheri Dillard
Thanks, Karan!! 🙂
May 8, 2019 at 2:40 am
Linda
What a delightful title for a picture book.
May 23, 2019 at 10:13 am
Sheri Dillard
Thanks, Linda!! 🙂
May 8, 2019 at 7:45 am
Rebecca Gardyn Levington
LOVE the title! And thanks for sharing your inspiring story to publication. Can’t wait to read this!
May 23, 2019 at 10:14 am
Sheri Dillard
Yay! Thanks, Rebecca!! 🙂
May 8, 2019 at 12:08 pm
Kassy Keppol
So fun
May 23, 2019 at 10:14 am
Sheri Dillard
Thanks, Kassy!! 🙂
May 8, 2019 at 4:19 pm
Keila Dawson
Love hearing about the inspiration behind a story. Congrats and I can’t wait to read it. I will never quite look at cows the same anymore! 🙂
May 23, 2019 at 10:15 am
Sheri Dillard
Haha! Me either! 🙂 Thanks, Keila!!
May 10, 2019 at 4:17 am
Arlene Schenker
Can’t wait to read this book. Great humor!
May 23, 2019 at 10:15 am
Sheri Dillard
Thanks, Arlene!! 🙂
May 10, 2019 at 11:19 pm
seschipper
Your story proves inspiration can come at anytime, anywhere!! Congratulations! Looking forward to reading Cowhide and seek!!! 🙂
May 23, 2019 at 10:16 am
Sheri Dillard
Thank you!! And yes, we have to be ready! 🙂
May 11, 2019 at 1:30 am
tinamcho
Fantastic backstory! This looks like a really cute book! Congrats.
May 23, 2019 at 10:16 am
Sheri Dillard
Yay! Thank you!! 🙂
May 11, 2019 at 7:27 am
Katelyn Aronson
This is the kind of cover/title that gets me to grab a book off the shelf every time, so I’ve been waiting for this book to come out! Congrats on your debut, Sheri. Great post here and great sense of humor. Looking forward to more books from you!
May 23, 2019 at 10:18 am
Sheri Dillard
Aww, thanks so much, Katelyn!! 🙂
May 11, 2019 at 8:38 am
Lisa Corbett
Cows are underrated! They are so relaxed about life. I agree that there is probably a lot more going on than them just standing there chewing.
May 23, 2019 at 10:20 am
Sheri Dillard
Haha! 🙂 And yes, they always seem so relaxed! Seems like a good way to be! 🙂
May 11, 2019 at 11:57 am
Stephanie Shaw
Congratulations, Sheri! You had a dream. I had a day dream! I wondered (since horse wear shoes) what kind of shoes a cow would want? From that dream to Moo La La! Cow Goes Shopping (Simon & Schuister, UK, 2017). Your book sounds MOOOOOVELOUS! We should do some barn storming together!
May 23, 2019 at 10:21 am
Sheri Dillard
Cheers to more barn-storming! Thanks so much, Stephanie! 🙂
May 13, 2019 at 11:08 am
mjchawk
Sheri, what a terrific idea. Good for you to listen to your dream – and to write it down. I can’t wait to get my hands on your book. Congratulations
May 23, 2019 at 10:22 am
Sheri Dillard
Thank you!! 🙂
May 13, 2019 at 10:57 pm
Mary Warth
Congratulations Sheri! Your book sounds looks so fun. Thanks for sharing the back story.
May 23, 2019 at 10:22 am
Sheri Dillard
Thanks, Mary!! 🙂
May 14, 2019 at 9:01 am
Teresa Robeson
I am totally reading any book that invokes The Far Side! 😂
May 23, 2019 at 10:23 am
Sheri Dillard
Haha! I agree– The Far Side is awesome!! Thanks, Teresa!! 🙂
May 14, 2019 at 12:07 pm
audiencedog
Cow’d by your fabulous sense of humor & the Gary Larson cow-toon.
May 23, 2019 at 10:24 am
Sheri Dillard
Haha! Thank moo! (I mean “you!”) 😉