Dear fellow kidlit book creators,
A few years ago, my writing partner gave me a challenge. She dared me to write an epistolary book—the entire manuscript could only be letters between characters.
So I gave it a shot. I decided the main character would be a dog—my old dog!
(BACKSTORY: One day, in about second grade, a scruffy mutt showed up in my front yard. He was dirty, and hungry, and stinky—and he was ours. We fed him, cleaned him up, and named him Auggie. I miss that dog, and still dream about him!)
Initially, my book was a series of letters between two characters: a scruffy dog looking for a home, and the cranky guy he was writing to.
But the story quickly evolved. In my second draft, the dog (named Arfy) was writing letters to every house/business on the street. Each person replied, and they all said “no.” For different reasons. Until the end of the book, where Arfy finally DID find a home.
This book ended up becoming a picture book called CAN I BE YOUR DOG?. And I didn’t realize it at the time, but that prompt from my friend was actually an exercise in writing voice.
In the early drafts, each of the letters sounded really same-y. The butcher sounded like the fire chief, who sounded like the junkyard guy. (Really, they all sounded like me. No good!) So I started playing with the letters, to make each character’s voice sound as different as possible.
Here are some of the parameters I tweaked for each character:
- VOCABULARY/GRAMMAR: The word choices the character makes, and how they string those words together. How does the butcher sound different from the fire chief?
- VOLUME: Is this character loud or quiet? And HOW are they loud/quiet? Are they boisterous? Overbearing? Timid? Soothing?
- RHYTHM: Does this character speak in long, flowing singsongy sentences? Or short, clipped bursts? Or a droning monotone? Or some other pattern?
- HANDWRITING: Do they write in loopy cursive with a purple pen? Or with a scribbly pencil, with crossed-out mistakes? Or do they type their letter? And what kind of paper do they write on? These things are all still part of that character’s “voice.”
I think the great thing about letter-writing is that it’s all about voice. We get to leave out the narration entirely, and have the entire text focus on the voice of the characters who are speaking. I mean, writing.
So now, I’m going to pass that challenge along to you!
CHALLENGE #1
Write a letter (or series of letters) between two characters. These characters should be as different from one other as possible.
For instance:
- The giant is writing a letter to Jack about this beanstalk ruining the resale value of his castle. (What’s the giant’s handwriting like? And imagine the size of his postage stamp!)
- The hare is writing to the tortoise demanding a rematch. (What’s the hare’s writing-rhythm like, vs. the tortoise’s?)
- A professional baseball coach is writing to the world’s greatest pitcher, who happens to be a second grade little-leaguer. But the second grader is NOT interested.
OR: design two characters of your choice. They can be people, animals, or fairy tale characters, but try to make them as opposite as possible. In the way they look, the way they sound, and their individual “goals.”
CHALLENGE #2 (BONUS!)
If you’re feeling warmed up, repeat the above exercise, but make the two characters as similar as possible. At least, on the surface. Maybe they’re both eighth-graders passing notes in science class. Or they’re two goldfish stuck in the same bowl. They can have the same age, interests, etc. but their voices should still be absolutely distinct.
Your pal,
Troy
P.S. I love postcripts. A cool way to sneak in one last surprise. And in this case, the surprise is a peek at my next book! Here it is:
I FOUND A KITTY! is the follow-up to my NY Times Bestseller CAN I BE YOUR DOG?. This time, Arfy finds a teeny kitten in a drain pipe. He writes letters to more people in town, hoping to find a home for the poor little cat.
As a kid, Troy Cummings spent all his time writing stories, drawing pictures, and keeping an eye out for monsters. As a grown-up, he pretty much does the same thing. Except now his bed time is 9:15.
Troy has written and illustrated more than forty children’s books, including THE NOTEBOOK OF DOOM series, THE BINDER OF DOOM series, CAN I BE YOUR DOG?, and THE EENSY WEENSY SPIDER FREAKS OUT (BIG-TIME!) He was also lucky enough to team up with the amazing, hilarious Tara Lazar on LITTLE RED GLIDING HOOD.
Troy Cummings lives in Indiana, where he steals jokes from his wife, kids, cats, and goldfish.
Visit Troy at troycummings.net and follow him on Twitter at @troycummings.
Troy is giving away one copy of I FOUND A KITTY after its release on March 3, 2020.
Leave one comment below to enter.
You’re eligible to win if you’re a registered Storystorm participant and you have commented once below.
Good luck!
561 comments
Comments feed for this article
January 16, 2020 at 7:05 am
Johnell DeWitt
What a fun exercise. Thank you.
January 16, 2020 at 7:09 am
sequinsue
This is great! I can’t wait to try this myself. Thanks for a great post.
January 16, 2020 at 7:10 am
Laura
What a great challenge for two characters to write letters. I have my next fun assignment.
January 16, 2020 at 7:11 am
Tara Hannon
What an awesome prompt! Thank you, Troy. Looking forward to reading I Found a Kitty
January 16, 2020 at 9:53 am
Gail Atherley
Thank you for an entirely different way to improve my writing. I have written letters to and from my characters before, but using a compare and contrast approach with an eye to variance will help significantly. Thank you ~~
January 16, 2020 at 7:12 am
Emma Wood
Thanks for a great post, Troy! My son absolutely adores Can I Be Your Dog!
January 16, 2020 at 8:55 am
Nancy Riley
What a great idea! Good luck with your new book!
January 16, 2020 at 7:17 am
Anne LeBlanc Gr 4/5 teacher (@AnneLeBlanc2)
I. LOVE.THIS. IDEA! I am going to try it myself. Making it about fairy tale characters will make it work for my grade 4 and 5 students too! Thanks!
January 16, 2020 at 7:17 am
Jennifer Weisse
What a fun idea. Can’t wait to take on this challenge! And, Arfy is adorable!
January 16, 2020 at 7:17 am
claireflewis
This is a brilliant post to help develop voice – that elusive quality that most agents and editors seem to put at the top of their wishlist! Thank you!
January 16, 2020 at 7:19 am
Robin Perkins
Dear Troy, I kinda like this here idea. See ya in the funny papers, Robin
January 16, 2020 at 7:20 am
Laura Purdie Salas
Love the story behind this book–and hearing your process. Thanks!
January 16, 2020 at 7:21 am
tanyakonerman
I absolutely love Can I Be Your Dog and can’t wait for Arfy’s next adventure. Great advice for working on voice and fun challenges! I’m working my way through a self-challenge to write in different formats and this just moved up to the top of my list! Thanks Troy!
January 16, 2020 at 7:22 am
steveheron
B R I L L I A N T. What an excellent idea. Challenge accepted. I have a couple of ideas I am stuck on and this might be the solution.
January 16, 2020 at 7:24 am
Carrie Karnes-Fannin
Developing voice for various characters is a real task. I like your two challenges given at the end–I’m going to try them. Thanks for the post!
January 16, 2020 at 7:28 am
Sarah Hetu-Radny
Great idea, Troy. I KNOW who I’m going to write letters between, but I can’t tell you on here! hahaha Thank you!!!
January 16, 2020 at 7:34 am
Robin Jordan
This is such a great idea!! I can be quite motivated by a challenge. I hope my dear critique group feels that way too. Guess what I’m proposing? Thank you, Troy, for this practical exercise! My critique group thanks you too… Right gals (They’re all Stormers so I know they’re seeing this!)? Yay!
January 16, 2020 at 7:34 am
Lesley Grigg
One of my favorites! The Jolly Postman or Other People’s Letters by Janet and Allan Ahlberg is one of my all-time favorites and takes letter-writing to a new level! This is one challenge I’m definitely up for.
January 16, 2020 at 7:35 am
sareenmclay
Thanks Troy. This reminded me of one of my favourite books, ‘Dear Greenpeace’. What a great idea to write from the dog’s point of view. I’m going to try this exercise and look out for you books!
January 16, 2020 at 8:25 am
michelemeleen
Dear Troy,
Thanks for sharing this insightful story! I don’t like writing prompts, but I do like my writing partner so I think I’ll challenge him to do the prompt LOL!
Sincerely,
Michele
P.S. I love postscripts too and that gives me a story idea!
January 16, 2020 at 7:35 am
thecrowsmap
This challenge is so much fun! Thanks, Troy:)
Gail Hartman
January 16, 2020 at 7:37 am
Sarah SarahH
I love epistolary books! I feel like they skew to an older audience usually, with a higher word count. I’m wondering if it’s possible to write one with a typical PB word count! But I haven’t read can I be your dog yet. Can’t wait!
January 16, 2020 at 7:41 am
Mel Copeman
I’ve never tried writing in letters before, so this will be a great task for me!
January 16, 2020 at 7:42 am
Sharon H
What a great challenge to help with character development!
January 16, 2020 at 7:43 am
Jen Bailey
Great exercises – thanks!
January 16, 2020 at 7:44 am
Michelle Ramirez
What a great exercise!
January 16, 2020 at 7:44 am
Linda Mitchell
This post is SO. MUCH. FUN! I especially love the parameters you mention. I copied that gem right into my notebook. Off to write a long over due letter!
January 16, 2020 at 7:45 am
kaleegwarjanski
I am so exciting about this prompt!! Playing with voice is so fun.
January 16, 2020 at 7:47 am
Lisa P
I’m excited to try this. I’m working on making a character’s voice unique currently. This might be just the exercise I need. Thank you!
January 16, 2020 at 7:53 am
Lauri Fortino
Can’t wait to read I FOUND A KITTY!
January 16, 2020 at 7:55 am
Sara Fajardo
This looks like such a fun prompt. Thank you.
January 16, 2020 at 7:55 am
Lori Sheroan
My 7th grade students and I loved Can I Be Your Dog! I’m looking forward to sharing your new book with them. Thanks for the writing challenge.
January 16, 2020 at 7:55 am
Catherine
Thank you so much for this great challenge. I have an idea already!
January 16, 2020 at 7:58 am
Jeannie Santucci
Thanks for a creative, different way to approach my writing. I’m looking forward to giving it a try today. Thanks, Troy! (And thank your writing partner!)
January 16, 2020 at 8:00 am
Lisa L Furness
Great exercises about voice. Thanks for the inspiration Troy!
January 16, 2020 at 8:09 am
Marianne Knowles
Oh wow! I got like 4 ideas from your suggestions, including one I’m really excited about. Thank you, Troy!
January 16, 2020 at 8:09 am
ramonapersaudwrites
Such a unique way to play with voice. Thanks. Going to give it a try.
January 16, 2020 at 8:16 am
fspoesy
Listen pal, this was a great post and now its got me thinking about episti…epistel…epistall…letter books and having my characters write letters to refine their character. Thanks! Your pal, me.
January 16, 2020 at 8:17 am
tinamcho
Fun idea to develop voice. Thanks, Troy! Congrats on these books!
January 16, 2020 at 8:20 am
58chilihed13
How I love this concept! Perhaps it is because I am an old fogy about the wonder and fun of snail mail! From picking fun postage to making wildly over the top cards from junk, I love the feel of a letter in my hand. I love the quickening in my heart when I open the door and find a hand addressed letter dropped onto my porch post desk…gushing, I know, but I just LOVE this post! Thanks Troy, ever so much!
January 16, 2020 at 8:20 am
kiwijenny
Letters for voice…this is cool, cool, cool. Thanks
January 16, 2020 at 8:23 am
Kaylynn Johnsen
I love you point about voice. I accept your challenge! Dueling voices at dawn!
January 16, 2020 at 8:23 am
Suzanne Lewis
Ohhhh! I can’t wait to do the voice challenges! And, thanks, Troy, for the great tips on how to make each voice unique and distinct!
January 16, 2020 at 8:24 am
storyfairy
Hi Troy,
Nice. Very nice.
I love writing letters, for both my own real life and fiction.
And I definitely need to work on voice for my stories. Writing letters sounds like a great way to do it. Thank you.
January 16, 2020 at 8:28 am
Franny G
Great, I love writing in letter form, it can really help with understanding your characters and I don’t know why I don’t do it more often! Thanks Troy.
January 16, 2020 at 8:30 am
Andrea Mack (@AndreaL_Mack)
Thank you for this challenge! I love stories told through letters—your dog story is such a great one! Looking forward to the new book!
January 16, 2020 at 8:32 am
pathaap
Fantastic post, Troy! Such a great idea. I love this exercise. Thanks!
January 16, 2020 at 8:34 am
Karen Yin
I’m so happy that Arfy found a kitty!
January 16, 2020 at 8:34 am
Dayne Sislen, Children's Book Illustrator
I have never tried this way of writing. It’s a great idea. Thanks.
January 16, 2020 at 8:37 am
rosecappelli
I absolutely love CAN I BE YOUR DOG? it is part of Pennsylvania’s Keystone to Reading Book Award list. Looking forward to the sequel! I actually do have a story idea that involves letter writing between two characters. Thanks for the inspiration to try making it into more than an idea.
January 16, 2020 at 8:39 am
Terrie Hellard-Brown
I love this idea! Can’t wait to try it out. What a fun way to practice voice.
January 16, 2020 at 8:39 am
Amy Houts
I enjoyed reading your post. I find the writing process fascinating. Thanks for sharing!
January 16, 2020 at 8:41 am
Joy
Great idea for practicing voice! This sounds like a lot of fun. 🙂
January 16, 2020 at 8:41 am
Cathy L. Murphy
Thanks for sharing this very helpful approach to practicing voice, Troy.
January 16, 2020 at 8:43 am
Becky Woodall
Love this exercise. Can’t wait to try it out. Thank you ☺️
January 16, 2020 at 8:43 am
Ashley Congdon (@AshleyCCongdon)
What great post! A fun exercise.
January 16, 2020 at 8:46 am
Sue Heavenrich
Great post – and thanks for the challenge. I needed something to kick-start my ideas today.
January 16, 2020 at 8:46 am
sjwmeade
LOVE this post! Looking forward to doing the challenge. In fact, I just challenged my CPs (and myself) to write an epistolary PB. Thanks for the post!
January 16, 2020 at 8:49 am
clairebobrow
Dear Troy:
we received your post, dated today, and will follow the enclosed instructions to the letter.
Thank you for your kind assistance!
Sincerely,
Claire 🙂
January 16, 2020 at 8:52 am
Kathy Erskine
Thanks for the prompts–will try them now!
January 16, 2020 at 8:54 am
gayleckrause
Great challenge, Troy. I’ll have to try it. and congrats on both books. Off to write a letter. Thanks! 😉
January 16, 2020 at 8:55 am
Ashley A Koney
I love Can I Be Your Dog and can’t wait to read I Found A Kitty! I am excited for this exercise. Thanks!
January 16, 2020 at 8:57 am
yangmommy
I cannot wait to read the follow up book, Troy, as I love “Can I Be Your Dog!” I’m also looking forward to practicing your challenge. It is a terrific way to hear the voice of one’s characters. Thanks for the inspiration!
January 16, 2020 at 8:57 am
Jane Heitman Healy
Thanks for the advice and challenges. I’m ready to give it a try! Congratulations on your publishing success, Troy!
January 16, 2020 at 9:03 am
Janet Smart
I love this idea! Thanks for the post.
January 16, 2020 at 9:03 am
Jeanette Stampone
I’m currently working on strengthening the voices in my WIP. The parameters mentioned are so helpful. Thanks!
January 16, 2020 at 9:06 am
Kathy Halsey
Troy, this is a genius idea for generating a new story or getting character voices just right. Dear, Troy, I love CAN I BE YOUR DOG. Yours, Kathy
January 16, 2020 at 9:10 am
BRU BENSON
I love how the process of a book begins and how the changes/ edits make it better. Thank You
January 16, 2020 at 9:10 am
Sue Reichard
I LOVE this idea! I am also going to find some mentor books that are epistolary as well! Thanks for this amazing post!
January 16, 2020 at 9:10 am
Darlene Koppel
Your friend gave you such a creative and awesome idea. I love it. Congratulations on your book. I can’t wait to read it. I will be working on your exercises today. Thanks so much!!!!
January 16, 2020 at 9:13 am
Marty lapointe-malchik
Troy! What a post! Thank you so much for this peek at how a creative genius goes about revising a picture perfect picture book. This is such a gem of an exercise for moving forward in writing with voice. Thanks so much! Can hardly wait to see I FOUND A KITTY. Tara, thank YOU for inviting Troy’s wisdom to the storm!
January 16, 2020 at 9:16 am
Jessica Kulekjian
This is such a fun exercise! And I love that it started as a dare from a CP! Looking forward to I FOUND A KITTY!
January 16, 2020 at 9:16 am
Shelly Hawley-Yan
Fantastic suggestions- can’t wait to see the new book!💗
January 16, 2020 at 9:17 am
kirsticall
Great idea, Troy!
January 16, 2020 at 9:17 am
Polly Sena Renner
Thanks Troy! I do have a PB written in letters. I need to go back and add more individual voices to it…thanks for the tips!!
January 16, 2020 at 9:18 am
Lori Dubbin
Thanks for showing how letters are a great way to work on voice and for “tweaking the parameters.” Love your books and can’t wait to read the new one about Kitty!
January 16, 2020 at 9:25 am
Cinzia V.
Great exercise! Thanks for the inspiration. I love how you articulated how you thought about varying the letters.
January 16, 2020 at 9:26 am
Dee Knabb
What fantastic suggestions for voice and the epistolary story format. Thanks, Troy!
January 16, 2020 at 9:27 am
faygie1
I read and loved your book, even it did make me quite sad at times. Thanks for the writing exercise and prompt. I love stories told in letter format and I’m intrigued to give it a try. Thank you!
January 16, 2020 at 9:27 am
Katie Mann
Can’t wait to read your next book!! All of your books are favorites at our school library!!
January 16, 2020 at 9:29 am
Robin Wiesneth
Fantastic post! CAN I BE YOUR DOG is one of my all-time favorite books.
January 16, 2020 at 9:30 am
Sally Lotz
Super fun idea. Thanks Troy!
January 16, 2020 at 9:30 am
Stacy S. Jensen
Thank you for sharing!
January 16, 2020 at 9:31 am
Glenda Roberson
Ohhhh! I’ve never tried this letter format, and I think it would be great fun. Also a way to force you to have two distinct voices.Thanks for the great post.
January 16, 2020 at 9:33 am
iefaber
This looks so fun! I’ve written random letters to/from random characters before but never with an actual goal or to learn about voice. Makes complete sense. I’m definitely doing this!!
Ps. I love postscripts too and use them on my blog in book reviews just because.
January 16, 2020 at 9:34 am
Mark Bentz
Great post Troy! Thank you for the writing exercise and prompt.
January 16, 2020 at 9:35 am
M.R.
I accept the challenge! Not only is this a great way to practice voice, but it introduces young readers to a dying art — writing and reading actual letters!
January 16, 2020 at 9:36 am
Sherri Jones Rivers
Thank you so much for this. I have this book and typed it up because I have a Dear Dog, Dear Cat manuscript. Like Troy, my characters sounded the same —I realized I needed to change the dog’s voice. This will give me some good steps to follow!
January 16, 2020 at 9:36 am
jodieparachini
Finding a voice can be so hard! Thanks for the exercises.
January 16, 2020 at 9:36 am
Marsha Diane Arnold
Truly, I thought your CAN I BE YOUR DOG? was brilliant and I’m a tough audience. 🙂 So interesting to hear how it came about. I’m definitely trying your activities. Thank you!
January 16, 2020 at 9:37 am
Joanna Rowland
What a fun exercise for voice.
January 16, 2020 at 9:37 am
Hollie Wolverton
Great exercises for voice! I did an epistolary MS during NaPiBoWriWee last year and it’s flat, but I’m excited to try revising it now. Love your book and think the next one looks adorable! Thank you for your post!
January 16, 2020 at 9:38 am
debbiearnn
Got an intriguing idea after reading this post! I’ll definitely come back to it once the “storm” is over! These books look great! I love the premise and the illustrations!
January 16, 2020 at 9:42 am
ptnozell
What an insightful post & great writing challenges and prompts! Thank you, Troy! I can’t wait to read Arfy’s latest story.
January 16, 2020 at 9:47 am
Louann Brown
Sounds like great fun! Thanks for the idea, Troy!
January 16, 2020 at 9:49 am
Laurie Carmody
Thanks for sharing this exercise in voice! Looking forward to your new book, Troy!
January 16, 2020 at 9:49 am
Beth Charles
I love this! What a great way to explore voice! It’s something I struggle with. Thanks for the insight.
January 16, 2020 at 9:50 am
Celeste Bocchicchio-Chaudhri
I LOVED Can I be Your Dog? and so did my kids! These exercises are going to be so much fun.
January 16, 2020 at 9:50 am
Sarah Tobias
Dear Troy,
Oh my goodness! Your letter was sooo inspiring. I have been thinking about a story idea for quite some time. This may be a great way to write it.
Even if it’s not the best way to tell the story, it will help me develop the character’s voices.
Thanks for your wonderful letter and challenges.
❤🧡💛💚💙💜,
Sarah
P.S. I loved “Can I Be Your Dog?” Looking forward to I Found A Kitty.
January 16, 2020 at 9:54 am
bookfish1
What a great fun exercise. Thanks for the templates you provided on establishing voice, like vocabulary, volume etc… I started playing with this idea and I can’t wait to sit down and give it a go. Or as my opposite character would say, I am thoroughly delighted and filled with anticipation at the prospect of implementing this challenge.
January 16, 2020 at 9:54 am
Linda Schueler
Great story and great exercises. Thanks!
January 16, 2020 at 9:56 am
Janie Reinart
Troy your Can I Be Your Dog story is charming. Fun exercise ❤️
January 16, 2020 at 9:58 am
rgstones
What a great exercise! Thanks for the post and the prompt.
January 16, 2020 at 10:02 am
Maria Bostian
What a great post! The MS I am working on right now is written in epistolary format and of course, CAN I BE YOUR DOG? is my mentor text! Thanks for the great post on how you’ve mastered the art of this style. Looking forward to reading your new book!
January 16, 2020 at 10:03 am
supermario6
Can I Be Your Dog? is one of my favorites. So glad to hear there’s a follow-up!
January 16, 2020 at 10:04 am
debobrienbookscom
You are so right in assigning this exercise. We all need to learn voice. I really enjoyed CAN I BE YOUR DOG and look forward to seeing Arfy again in I FOUND A KITTY.
January 16, 2020 at 10:06 am
Lisa Black
Thank you!
January 16, 2020 at 10:06 am
Pat
I love this writing exercise to shape “voice.” Thank you so much for the idea!
January 16, 2020 at 10:08 am
nrompella
I love this idea! And you may have given me new direction for something I wrote that’s just not working. Thanks!
January 16, 2020 at 10:09 am
Rebecca
Love these two exercises! And your books look great also! Thanks for the inspiration.
January 16, 2020 at 10:09 am
Kari Gonzalez
Great exercise and Can I Be Your Dog? Is a household favorite ours!
January 16, 2020 at 10:12 am
Jessica Coupé
Love the idea of letter writing to find voice of characters. Thanks!
January 16, 2020 at 10:14 am
Kathy Cornell Berman
I love your book and your letter writing idea.Such a fun way to develop voice. Thanks Troy!
January 16, 2020 at 10:14 am
me
So much fun (and work)!
January 16, 2020 at 10:14 am
Krista Maxwell
Love Can I Be Your Dog! Thanks for sharing how you came up with it. I can’t wait to begin your challenges!
January 16, 2020 at 10:16 am
Roxanne
What a fun story starter. I’ll have to give it a try.
January 16, 2020 at 10:16 am
Elizabeth Brown
Great exercise. Thank you! Looking forward to your next book!
January 16, 2020 at 10:17 am
chelsealin79
We are Troy Cummings fans over here (my daughter is a member of the SSMP)! Love these exercises. Time to get letter writing! 🙂
January 16, 2020 at 10:18 am
Jay
Who can resist a dare! Thank you for the great post.
January 16, 2020 at 10:19 am
Anna Freeman
This is a great exercise and something I’ve never tried before. Thanks for the great idea!
January 16, 2020 at 10:19 am
lmconnors
This will be a fun exercise! Thank you.
January 16, 2020 at 10:20 am
mlflannigan
Thank you for sharing!!!
January 16, 2020 at 10:23 am
Daryl Gottier
What an excellent exercise in voice. Thanks so much! And I love picture books written as a series of letters-such fun.
January 16, 2020 at 10:25 am
Kailei Pew
Really excited to try this one! I’ve often wanted to try writing an epistolary book, but I haven’t given myself permission. This will be fun!
January 16, 2020 at 10:26 am
Joan Longstaff
This is something I’ve never tried before, but your post has got my juices flowing and I’m up for the exercises. Really good tip for finding the voice of your different characters and making them distinct. Thank you for sharing.
January 16, 2020 at 10:27 am
Sharon Langley
Aw, so cute! Maybe I should write a letter. Thanks for sharing.
January 16, 2020 at 10:30 am
carmelamccainsimmons
Great technique to develop voice! Thanks so much for the challenge! I can’t wait to read your new book.
January 16, 2020 at 10:31 am
Colleen Owen Murphy
Oh my goodness. I had a similar story idea where a stray dog goes house to house to find someone to take him in. It was not letter writing; it was actually going up to the door. But you followed through with yours quite successfully, so congratulations!! And thanks for the challenges!
January 16, 2020 at 10:34 am
authorjanetparkinsonbryce
This is a great and fun way to write a story! Thanks
January 16, 2020 at 10:35 am
Robin Brett Wechsler
Thanks for the fun challenges and prompts, Troy! P.S. I love Can I be Your Dog? 🙂
January 16, 2020 at 10:36 am
Carole Calladine
I love, love the idea of two characters writing letters to find their voice Thanks for sharing this prompt.
January 16, 2020 at 10:36 am
Suzanne Poulter Harris
Fun exercise on voice … I just shared this on Twitter!
January 16, 2020 at 10:39 am
Debra Kempf Shumaker
Brilliant suggestion. Thank you for a great post!
January 16, 2020 at 10:39 am
cingsync
What a great post! I’ve always loved reading epistolary stories and honestly don’t know why I’ve never tried writing one. You’ve inspired me! Thanks!
January 16, 2020 at 10:45 am
marsha weiner
Love this challenge. THANK YOU!!
JUST FABULOUS!!!
January 16, 2020 at 10:46 am
Paisley Schade
There is nothing quite like the feeling of creating a distinctive character voice. Thank you!
January 16, 2020 at 10:48 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Fantastic challenge Troy. Can’t wait to read I FOUND A KITTY!
January 16, 2020 at 10:48 am
bgonsar
Nice prompts! Thanks for sharing.
January 16, 2020 at 10:54 am
Thelia Hutchinson
Great ideas. I love this concept. I am willing to try the challenge.
Thank you.
January 16, 2020 at 10:54 am
Heather Stigall
I have a ms all in letter form (just one early draft). Thanks for just the tips I needed to work on making sure the voices of each character are different!
January 16, 2020 at 10:54 am
Sherry Smith
Epistolary stories are tough but you created a hilarious story out of a difficult challenge from your brilliant critique partner. Thanks for passing along the challenge. Good luck with your new book.
January 16, 2020 at 10:54 am
Eileen Mayo
What a fun challenge! Congratulations on the new book!
January 16, 2020 at 10:55 am
Shawna JC Tenney
Thanks for the fun prompts. What a great way to think about voice!
January 16, 2020 at 10:56 am
Doreen E. Lepore
Thanks for sharing this fun exercise! Congrats on all your books!
January 16, 2020 at 10:56 am
Michele Ziemke
I went on a similar journey when writing a story about a girl and her bandaids! Making each of the characters have a different voice was challenging! Ow I’m going to try challenge 2!
January 16, 2020 at 10:57 am
Melissa Coffey
Fabulous post! I’ve never tried this approach so can’t wait to give it a whirl. Thanks, Troy!
January 16, 2020 at 11:02 am
kimpfenn
This was so much fun! Thanks Troy for the writing exercises and inspiration!
January 16, 2020 at 11:02 am
Dea
Yeesh I love your style.
Maybe when I grow up I can be like you.
*Sigh.*
January 16, 2020 at 11:03 am
Jacqueline Adams
This post came just in time to help me out with a manuscript I’m revising. Thanks!
January 16, 2020 at 11:03 am
beckylevine
Great ideas! Thanks for the challenges.
.
January 16, 2020 at 11:06 am
SUSAN
Troy, thank you for these challenges!
January 16, 2020 at 11:08 am
Kathy
Love the picture of Troy and can’t wait to read his books.
January 16, 2020 at 11:13 am
jennagrodzicki
This is fantastic advice! I’m excited to try writing letters between two new characters. And I’m a huge fan of Can I Be Your Dog? 😀
January 16, 2020 at 11:14 am
Brittanny Handiboe
AAAHHHHH this story is so cute! ❤
January 16, 2020 at 11:19 am
Nancy Furstinger
I absolutely loved your book–I read it to my two rescued dogs! Looking forward to the Kitty book:-)
January 16, 2020 at 11:23 am
kyavorski
Inspiration and a mini writing lesson all in one – Thanks!
January 16, 2020 at 11:24 am
Cathy Lentes
Oh, this is a fun one…with homework! Thanks, Troy.
January 16, 2020 at 11:28 am
Tracy Hora
Fun post and love your book!! Thanks.
January 16, 2020 at 11:30 am
authoryvonafast
Troy, Thank you for a great lesson on character voice and sharing how you revised your story. And a challenge.
January 16, 2020 at 11:34 am
jenabenton
Great idea. I’ve always loved epistolary stories!
January 16, 2020 at 11:35 am
Heather Rowley
Love, love, love this!!
January 16, 2020 at 11:35 am
Leigh Therriault
As a former child letter-writer, this brings back fond memories of writing to my grandparents… Loved this exercise suggestion and reading about how your book was formed!
P.S. I adore postscripts too! 😊
January 16, 2020 at 11:36 am
matthewlasley
I think this would be a good exercise to help find voice even if you don’t write an epistolary. It is similar to an interview, but the writing itself helps you “see” the voice.
Thanks
January 16, 2020 at 11:37 am
Naana
Thanks Troy on this interesting lesson on character and voice. I love the challenge, since I have never tried writing in letters. Congratulations on your new book!
January 16, 2020 at 11:40 am
Becky Ross Michael
Great exercise to practice voice. Love the looks of your books!
January 16, 2020 at 11:40 am
Melissa Richardson
Troy you really did a great job with voice in CAN I BE YOUR DOG? My kids loved that book and we had a blast reading it. Thanks for the homework, too! Great exercise!
January 16, 2020 at 11:41 am
Leslie Leibhardt Goodman - Writer
Vocabulary, grammar, volume, and rhythm – those are words I’m posting in my writing space as reminders when I’m writing or editing my manuscripts. If my characters can’t be separated or identified by those categories, they are too similar. Many thanks also for the exercise to write an epistolary book.
January 16, 2020 at 11:42 am
judyrubin13
Thank you, Troy. What great challenges and a wonderful way to exercise the voice and voices in my head. What a writing day I am going to have. Thank you!
January 16, 2020 at 11:45 am
Gabriele
Thanks for the inspiration! I don’t tend to be a prompt person, but this one spoke to me. I’m excited to try it. I loved CAN I BE YOUR DOG? and look forward to Arfy’s kitty adventure.
January 16, 2020 at 11:46 am
Karen Greenwald
I LOVE this idea! I always enjoy epistolary books, but never thought of writing one myself for a pb! I’m completely inspired to take my current ms and tweak it, epistolary-style. PS: (since you enjoy a post script) I also really like the way your signature is on the cover. It makes it so much more personal, which I think it really nice for kidlit! Thanks for your post!
January 16, 2020 at 11:47 am
Caren
I love, love, love this idea! Thanks!
January 16, 2020 at 11:48 am
David McMullin
Such a great way to find character voice. Thank you, Troy.
January 16, 2020 at 11:50 am
Danielle Dufayet
Awww, love your dog book and congrats on your next one! It looks adorable too. Thanks for sharing your idea about writing letters -very thought provoking. 🙂
January 16, 2020 at 11:50 am
Corlie Aldrich
Such cute ideas!
January 16, 2020 at 11:51 am
Candace Spizzirri
Thank you Troy for this fun prompt! Congratulations on I Found A Kitty!
January 16, 2020 at 11:55 am
Danielle Dufayet
Love the idea of writing letters! Thanks for sharing- your books look adorable. 🙂
January 16, 2020 at 11:59 am
curryelizabeth
I’m a huge fan of CAN I BE YOUR DOG! So fun to hear about your process and I love the challenges. Can’t wait to get started. Thanks Troy and Tara!
January 16, 2020 at 12:00 pm
Angela De Groot
Love, love this post! Excited to try the writing exercises. Thanks, Troy!
January 16, 2020 at 12:03 pm
Darcee Freier
So interesting that your first idea had to evolve. You kept working at it, changing it. Thanks for the encouragement to keep pushing an idea.
January 16, 2020 at 12:07 pm
Aimee
I love the different suggestions on how to look at voice! And what could be better than a fun challange or 2:) love your books!
January 16, 2020 at 12:10 pm
Virginia Law Manning
Thank you so much, Troy! This was a great post AND excellent description on how to create voice. I’m definitely going to try your prompt and I have an idea that’s been floating around in my brain for some time now that will work well! Also, I’m so glad you were today’s blog writer because I’m working on my camp description for this summer and have just decided to use CAN I BE YOUR DOG? and this prompt as part of my camp! Thank you for the inspiration!
January 16, 2020 at 12:13 pm
Carrie Tillotson
Thanks, Troy! I’ve had an epistolary idea swirling in my head for a couple of years now, and just had a breakthrough idea for it while reading your post.
P.S. My son and I love “Can I Be Your Dog.” Can’t wait for the sequel.
January 16, 2020 at 12:15 pm
Susan Drew
Oh Yay! I love writing prompts. Let’s see where these letters take us.
January 16, 2020 at 12:17 pm
Christine Pinto
Thanks, Troy for a great post on voice. So many times, the talk about voice just doesn’t have these specifics and I found them very helpful. And what a great exercise to try. Thanks!
January 16, 2020 at 12:19 pm
Shirley
I’m such a big fan of Troy’s work. Congratulations on these books and thank you for such a great and helpful post!
January 16, 2020 at 12:19 pm
Shirley
I’m such a big fan of Troy’s work. Congratulations on these books and thank you for such a great and helpful post!
January 16, 2020 at 12:21 pm
Cheryl Johnson
Just put you book on hold at the library! I’m a sucker for dogs. Love the challenge ideas.
January 16, 2020 at 12:22 pm
betlw
Wonderful, creative idea, Troy! I’m eager to try a letter/picture book idea. Great prompt. I’m also eager to read one of your books to see how you do it
January 16, 2020 at 12:23 pm
brittanypomales
Great challenge! Thanks for this post.
January 16, 2020 at 12:24 pm
June Sengpiehl
A challenging and entertaining post with an exercise too.
January 16, 2020 at 12:28 pm
jbbower
What a great idea! I love this challenge. Thanks for an inspiring post Troy!
January 16, 2020 at 12:32 pm
Paula B Puckett
This is just what I think I needed for one of my story ideas. Great suggestion–will work on characters communicating by leaving messages. Thanking You, I am…!
January 16, 2020 at 12:36 pm
Elizabeth
So much to think about! Thank you!!
January 16, 2020 at 12:37 pm
Sara Matson
Love this idea for a writing exercise, and I love the idea for your dog book! Can’t wait to read it!
January 16, 2020 at 12:39 pm
Cathy Ogren
Thanks for the challenges, Troy. Great idea!
January 16, 2020 at 12:40 pm
storycatcherpublishing
My current historical fiction chapter book series, HISTORY’S MYSTERIES, actually involves journal entries and letters to help develop the characters as well as move the story along.
Great post!
Donna L Martin
Story Catcher Publishing
January 16, 2020 at 12:41 pm
Joel Chalmers
Thanks Troy,
Writing letters to practice with voice is a great idea. It could even be a way to more fully understand your characters with / without incorporating the letters in the book. All the best in your writing.
January 16, 2020 at 12:43 pm
Kim Larson
Great exercise, Troy! Can’t wait to try it. Congrats on the books – both sound great! I want to read them.
January 16, 2020 at 12:45 pm
Suzanne Alexander
Thanks so much, Troy. These challenges will be very helpful.
January 16, 2020 at 12:45 pm
susaninez0905
I love this! Voice is sometimes overlooked. This is a great reminder. And, the challenges are perfect! Thank you.
January 16, 2020 at 12:45 pm
Natasha Garnett
Thank you, Troy. Vocab, volume, rhythm- I’m going to tweak some PB dialogue right now. Congratulations on the impending arrival of Kitty. (which I would love to win)
January 16, 2020 at 12:45 pm
Pamela harrison
I love Can I Be Your Dog! So do my grandchildren. Thank you for your wonderful tips on voice and for the writing challenge. Guess what I’ll be doing today!
January 16, 2020 at 12:49 pm
LeeAnn Rizzuti
Great voice exercise, Troy. Thanks for sharing.
January 16, 2020 at 12:49 pm
Susan Johnston Taylor
I loved Can I Be Your Dog? and I have a few ideas for epistolary PBs of my own.
January 16, 2020 at 12:50 pm
Natasha Garnett
Hi Tara, Just wondering if you are still pushing a stroller. Storystorm is great. Thank you and all your collected blogger buddies! Natasha Garnett
January 16, 2020 at 12:51 pm
Mary Lou Johnson
Now you’ve got me thinking, Troy! I appreciate your contributions to the pb world and today to all of us!
January 16, 2020 at 12:53 pm
Amy Bradshaw
Thanks for the writing idea – can’t wait to read your books!
January 16, 2020 at 12:53 pm
Aimee Larke
I love this exercise! Thank you for the inspiration. My son and I love “Can I be your dog” and cannot wait for your new book this spring.
January 16, 2020 at 12:56 pm
katherineadlam
I just love the idea of using letters between characters.
January 16, 2020 at 1:00 pm
Heidi M. Rogers (@heidimrogers)
I love CAN I BE YOUR DOG? and I love this exercise! Thanks for the tip!
January 16, 2020 at 1:15 pm
Pamela Haskin
Oh my goodness, what a fun exercise! It certainly helps me separate my characters. Thanks for sharing.
January 16, 2020 at 1:17 pm
gattodesign
Simply Brilliant idea! Absolutely love it. Thanks for your suggestions! And I love that the puppy is looking for a home for the kitten! Will have to check that out!
January 16, 2020 at 1:18 pm
Sandhya Rose
Wow! So much to think about in this awesome post. Thanks for the wonderful writing challenges too!!
January 16, 2020 at 1:19 pm
writeknit
Fabulous ideas! Great exercises to get ideas popping! Thank you 🙂
January 16, 2020 at 1:19 pm
Brandy Lynne
Challenge accepted. 🙂
January 16, 2020 at 1:21 pm
Chang H
Thanks so much for sharing your tips! And I love your illustrations — so adorable!
January 16, 2020 at 1:22 pm
Anita Banks
A fun exercise, thank you.
January 16, 2020 at 1:23 pm
Cortney Benvenuto
What an awesome idea and fun challenge! Thanks for sharing and congrats on your books!
January 16, 2020 at 1:28 pm
bevbaird
What fun exercises – and great inspiration. Thanks Troy. Looking forward to reading your new book!
January 16, 2020 at 1:35 pm
Nancy Ferguson
Troy, What fun this will be to do! Thank you, thank you!
January 16, 2020 at 1:36 pm
Jennifer Blanck
I like the idea of the contrasting writing exercises. Thanks!
January 16, 2020 at 1:38 pm
Lisa Riddiough
Troy, I love these writing prompts!! Thank you, thank you!! And congrats on I Found a Kitty!!
January 16, 2020 at 1:44 pm
Liz Steinglass
Many of my favorite picture books are told in letters. I can’t wait to read these.
January 16, 2020 at 1:45 pm
Laurel Ranveig Abell
Reading CAN I BE YOUR DOG the first time to elementary classes was such a treat! Not only was I getting visual clues about what was coming, but it was fun to watch some (definitely not all) of the kids start to wiggle on their butts because they were beginning to see what was coming. And for those who didn’t, it was a BIG AWWWW moment! Cheers all around!
January 16, 2020 at 1:50 pm
dedradavis03
Such a great exercise! And congrats on the new book!!
January 16, 2020 at 1:52 pm
Linda KulpTrout
I love books written in letters, and this exercise it perfect for practicing voice!
January 16, 2020 at 1:54 pm
Chelle Martin
Love your suggestions. And I’m a dog lover, so this book holds a special appeal to me. After having had a feral cat, I’m looking forward to reading your new book as well.
January 16, 2020 at 1:54 pm
Susan Twiggs
Love this exercise. I’ll do it! You sound like a fun guy.
January 16, 2020 at 1:55 pm
karammitchell
I love this book! And what a great exercise. Thanks, Troy!
January 16, 2020 at 1:55 pm
Heidi Yates
This is a fun challenge. Thank you, Troy!
January 16, 2020 at 2:10 pm
Carolyn Currier
Thank you!
January 16, 2020 at 2:13 pm
Susan Wroble
Like Troy, I hadn’t thought about epistolary stories being exercises in voice. What a great insight and exercise.
January 16, 2020 at 2:20 pm
Debra Daugherty
I love this writing letters challenge, and your books sound adorable. Thanks, Troy, for new ideas.
January 16, 2020 at 2:21 pm
Laura Jean Watters
I’ve got to get a copy of “Can I Be Your Dog?” I’m stuck on wondering how Arfy writes. I may consider two letter writers who employ different methods of writing. method
January 16, 2020 at 2:31 pm
Aimee Satterlee
I love this exercise! I really enjoy books like yours which utilize letters, but I never thought about writing one myself until now. Plus, all of the tips on voice are spot on. Thanks for the inspiration, Troy!
January 16, 2020 at 2:36 pm
Kassy Keppol
Thank you for sharing. I want to use your prompts with my students. What a fun activity.
January 16, 2020 at 2:39 pm
ofmariaantonia
Very neat idea for a writing exercise.
January 16, 2020 at 2:40 pm
Lori Alexander
Thanks for the story behind the story. Love your work!
January 16, 2020 at 2:40 pm
chardixon47
Troy-thank you for these great exercises in voice! I love your books. Congrats on your forthcoming book 🙂
January 16, 2020 at 2:41 pm
Poupette Smith
NOW that’s a fantastic exercise. Thanks!
January 16, 2020 at 2:43 pm
Lisa Billa
Fun challenge- thank you! I have a few characters who might like to be pen pals. Looking forward to your new book!
January 16, 2020 at 2:49 pm
rjtraxel
Love this exercise. Also a huge fan of your work!
January 16, 2020 at 2:53 pm
Carolyne Ruck
Love having the challenges! Great examples from your book — and the way you explained the elements that effect voice was super helpful. Thank you.
January 16, 2020 at 3:17 pm
Gabi Snyder
I love this exercise — fun and challenging! Thanks, Troy!
January 16, 2020 at 3:19 pm
Lucky Jo Boscarino
Having trouble typing because I found a kitty lying on my right arm (being very helpful). Now if she would only proofread my latest MS. Thanks, Troy, can’t wait to see the new book.
January 16, 2020 at 3:28 pm
Carrie Williford (@carrietimes)
Wow, what a coincidence! I just read your book for the first time yesterday and I loved it!! I loved the rescue component to it. Can’t wait to read the next one.
January 16, 2020 at 3:28 pm
Michele R
I love epistolary stories! Thanks for the challenges. And for the ideas within those challenges.
January 16, 2020 at 3:28 pm
farmfolkfamily
Can’t wait to try your challenge! Thanks for some great story starters.
January 16, 2020 at 3:31 pm
aidantalkin
love this narrator-less challenge, you’re on!
January 16, 2020 at 3:33 pm
laurimacey
Troy, I LOVE your thoughts about character and voice. I am so sad you are not giving away a critique…are you looking for a mentee by any chance?
January 16, 2020 at 3:38 pm
Lydia Lukidis
Great exercise, I’ve never actually done that!
January 16, 2020 at 3:44 pm
marshaelyn
Critique Partners truly ARE sparks for new ideas. My two critique groups, as well “12 x 12ers,” give me challenges, encouragement, and motivation. Practice and perseverance while pursuing our passion! Letter writing as a “hook” might inspire us to actually snail mail a letter or three again. Congratulations on finding your groove! Sending you energy and inspiration for your continued success…
January 16, 2020 at 3:46 pm
mommamoocow
Neat idea!
January 16, 2020 at 3:49 pm
Sylvia Mary Grech
Love your ideas! Lots of work to do.
January 16, 2020 at 3:53 pm
Sallye O'Rourke
A great exercise, thanks for sharing.
January 16, 2020 at 4:03 pm
Ruthie Kirk
Great post! Just ordered Can I Be Your Dog? for my friend’s birthday next week!
January 16, 2020 at 4:07 pm
writeremmcbride
Oh Troy! We LOVED your book in my elementary library classes! We noticed the different voices, the styles in the letters, and the accumulation of “No’s” that meant….but wait! A rescue at last! We practiced the thinking that led us to the discovery at the end – a great lesson in comprehension, along with a great (and heartwarming) story! I’m so glad that “Kitty” is coming along! Your post is very helpful, in that I am working on a draft of a manuscript with many voices and a repeating pattern that requires that the voices be especially distinct. Thank you so much for breaking it down as you did. Best wishes to you on more wonderful books! Thank you again!
January 16, 2020 at 4:09 pm
Mrs. Vandivier
I love this idea. It will help my characters find voice and reasoning. At least I think it will. I plan to work on this at my special time set aside for writing where it’s just me.
January 16, 2020 at 4:11 pm
Evelyn Bookless
Love your writing prompt ideas here! Superb advice. Thanks!
January 16, 2020 at 4:12 pm
Mirka
Those were great excercises. I’m really looking forwards to the new book!
January 16, 2020 at 4:12 pm
Jennifer Linville
Fun exercise idea! Thanks for posting!
January 16, 2020 at 4:18 pm
kathrynjeanhagen
Thank you,Troy, for the tips on using letter writing to tell a story and bring the characters to life!! I’ll definitely work on the exercises.
January 16, 2020 at 4:21 pm
Bettie Boswell
Thank you for sharing your great advice on voice. Your kitty book sounds like a great sequel.
January 16, 2020 at 4:21 pm
mona861
What a great post. And, thanks for the exercises, Troy. P.S. would love to win your new book.
January 16, 2020 at 4:30 pm
Donna Mork Reed (@DonnaMorkReed)
I absolutely love “Can I Be Your Dog.” I work at a library and after reading it, I ran around the library and coerced all of my co-workers to read it as well. We all enjoyed it and I always recommend this book to anyone asking for an excellent picture book to read. I can’t wait for Kitty!
January 16, 2020 at 4:35 pm
Deb Sullivan
Great challenge Troy – I’m on it!
January 16, 2020 at 4:43 pm
Jessica Potts
Great article! I’ve been kicking around letters idea for awhile and maybe now is the time to get it on paper!
January 16, 2020 at 4:49 pm
wyszguy
Great exercise! Thank you!
January 16, 2020 at 4:50 pm
shirley301
I love your challenge. Thanks for the post.
January 16, 2020 at 4:54 pm
Erin Buhr
I loved your book. It was so fun to hear the backstory. Thank you for the challenge. I can’t wait to try it!
January 16, 2020 at 5:09 pm
JillDanaBooks
Thanks for your advice! I’ve been working on a epistolary manuscript off and on for years and I’ll definitely review the parameters you suggested to make the manuscript even better. (I hope 😉 ).
P.S. CAN I BE YOUR DOG? and I FOUND A KITTY both look adorable! 🙂
January 16, 2020 at 5:16 pm
Marty Bellis
Such a fun way to practice ‘voice’. Thanks for suggesting the challenges and for the inside peek at writing Can I Be Your Dog? Can’t wait to read the newest addition to the series!
January 16, 2020 at 5:21 pm
Heather Gallagher
Love this challenge!
January 16, 2020 at 5:26 pm
kateperidot
What a lovely idea for a story. Thank you.
January 16, 2020 at 5:30 pm
lauriekaiserwrites
I want to try this exercise right now! And I can’t wait to read Can I Be Your Dog to see all the different voices. Thanks.
January 16, 2020 at 5:40 pm
Rebecca Herzog
This is one of my fave exercises for finding character voice. Thanks for the reminder!
January 16, 2020 at 5:40 pm
tdjw
Wow! What a good idea!
January 16, 2020 at 5:41 pm
Lindsey Hobson
My daughter LOVES Can I Be Your Dog! How neat to read about how it came to be. Thank you
January 16, 2020 at 5:59 pm
Elizabeth W Saba
Thanks Troy!!
January 16, 2020 at 6:02 pm
cantsing1
Great ideas for a new approach – and do I have a story to apply it to ; )
January 16, 2020 at 6:03 pm
Rebecca E. Hirsch
Love these ideas, Troy. Can’t wait to try this!
January 16, 2020 at 6:08 pm
cravevsworld
Love the inspiration to embed a classic style of writing into picture books! Thank you.
January 16, 2020 at 6:10 pm
Meredith Fraser
What fun books!! Can’t wait to read I FOUND A KITTY. Thanks for the advice.
January 16, 2020 at 6:12 pm
Janice Woods
Great post — thanks!
January 16, 2020 at 6:14 pm
Elia Ben-Ari
What a great idea! My cousin’s cat (in Australia) sometimes writes to our cat (in the US) and he has a distinctive voice.
January 16, 2020 at 6:17 pm
Carol Gwin Nelson
Thanks for the challenges! They will be fun to write and a great way to really look at voice.
January 16, 2020 at 6:21 pm
Alice Fulgione
Thank you so much for challenging us! Sounds like a super, great way to work on our character voices & I can’t wait to try this!
January 16, 2020 at 6:24 pm
Alice Fulgione
Thanks so much for challenging us! Sounds like a super, great way to improve our character voices. Can’t wait to try this!
January 16, 2020 at 6:26 pm
cbcole
Carol Cole – I love the idea of thinking how a character’s handwriting is part of their voice. What great challenges you gave to get the ideas going.
January 16, 2020 at 6:36 pm
Melanie Ellsworth
My family loved reading, CAN I BE YOUR DOG?! And this is a terrific exercise in thinking about voice – thank you, Troy.
January 16, 2020 at 6:38 pm
Melissa Stoller
Hi Troy – I love your work! Thanks for a great post with two thought-provoking exercises! Can’t wait for your follow-up book!
January 16, 2020 at 7:15 pm
seschipper
Wow! Loved this post!! Thanks Troy for providing the opportunity to see how you approached your challenge to write a story using letters!!! Looking forward to a trip to the book shop to purchase your books!
PS Don’t you just love pets!!! 🙂
January 16, 2020 at 7:36 pm
Kimberly Marcus
This is such a great post! Thanks and am looking forward to penning some letters!
January 16, 2020 at 7:37 pm
Christina Shawn
What a great challenge! I’m going to try it! Thank you! Oh, and my kids and I love this story.
January 16, 2020 at 7:37 pm
Brinton Culp
What a fun and creative way to develop a story! Thanks for the post–I will try out this exercise for sure!
January 16, 2020 at 7:46 pm
Sara A
A great prompt! And I love hearing how you made each letter/letter writer have a unique voice.
January 16, 2020 at 7:49 pm
Stephanie Austin
Fantastic post. Can’t wait to start writing my my letters!
January 16, 2020 at 7:50 pm
Sheri Radovich
Read this over this morning and mulled it over all day with several new ideas from this study of VOICE. Thanks for the challenges.
January 16, 2020 at 7:59 pm
Nadia Salomon
I absolutely love this idea! Thank you for the prompts and nuggets of how to come up with better ‘VOICE’ for our characters. Congratulations on your upcoming book too!
January 16, 2020 at 8:06 pm
Arlene Schenker
What a cool idea-an epistolary picture book! I’ll give these exercises a shot–and looking forward to reading these two books. Thanks, Troy!
January 16, 2020 at 8:06 pm
jeanjames926
I’m excited for this challenge! This was a fun post! Thank you Troy.
January 16, 2020 at 8:08 pm
Angela Verges
Thanks Troy. I love this idea. I’ve started writing my letter.
January 16, 2020 at 8:12 pm
Erik Ammon
Challenge accepted! This is such an awesome idea. I’m glad your friend challenged you and thanks for passing it on to us!
January 16, 2020 at 8:15 pm
asiqueira1307
How happy I am to read a post from one of my grandson’s favorite authors. He went to the Seattle Book Festival and got a book signed by you. He was so happy. The book is so cute and sweet. Adorable. Thanks for making my grandson so happy. I will be buying the kitty book for him too.
January 16, 2020 at 8:17 pm
JEN Garrett
Ever since I read CAN I BE YOUR DOG, I wanted to thank you, because it sparked the premise of one of my WIP manuscripts. Now I have the chance!
So, Thank you!
January 16, 2020 at 8:34 pm
saputnam
Great post, Troy!! Thank you for sharing these terrific exercises to help with character development! I love “Can I Be Your Dog” and can’t wait to read “I Found A Kitty!” It’s already on pre-order!!
January 16, 2020 at 8:37 pm
Diane O'Neill
Your books sound terrific–I can’t wait to read them! And I’m going to do those challenges–they sound super helpful. Thanks for sharing your story and ideas!
January 16, 2020 at 8:52 pm
Amy Newbold
I love epistolary books and I’ll have to read yours. Thanks for suggesting this exercise. I can’t wait to try it.
January 16, 2020 at 8:56 pm
Julie Reich
I love these ideas! I’m going to jump right in. Congrats on your upcoming book.
January 16, 2020 at 8:57 pm
EmmieRWerner
Great post. I have an idea❤️
January 16, 2020 at 9:03 pm
Hélène Sabourin
Great challenge idea. Thanks for your post.
January 16, 2020 at 9:07 pm
deirdreprischmann
Thanks for the writing exercises!
January 16, 2020 at 9:11 pm
Lori Menning
I love the letter challenge. Great exercise that might have a successful P.S. like yours!
January 16, 2020 at 9:13 pm
jshaklan
Love love love the idea of Can I Be Your Dog! I can’t wait to find it and read it. I think letters are a really fun way to show character — thanks for the inspiration!
January 16, 2020 at 9:19 pm
Julie Augensen-Rand
I read, CAN I BE YOUR DOG about six months ago, and even showed it to my 13 year old son. We both looked at each other, with a, How stinkin’ smart was that book look. So creative. I’m glad you’re giving us permission to write with letters. It’s so fun!
January 16, 2020 at 9:22 pm
jenniemacdonald
How could ANYBODY say “no” to Arfy?! Letters are a great means of exploring voice. Thank you!
January 16, 2020 at 9:22 pm
DaNeil Olson
I’ve been feeling stuck creatively and your post has my creative juices flowing again. Thank you!
January 16, 2020 at 9:23 pm
Teresa Robeson
I clearly need to hang out with Troy more often! He has the coolest ideas and I want them to rub off on me. 😀
January 16, 2020 at 9:31 pm
Natalie Lynn Tanner
TROY & ARFY: THANK YOU SO MUCH for the WONDERFUL challenges you’ve posed for us; the wheels in my brain are ALREADY turning. I’m not much of a letter-based book fan, but I think you may have changed my mind, especially in pointing out how these books are truly focused on the characters’ voices and POV. Your ideas for developing each character’s voice is MOST DEFINITELY going up on my brainstorming wall, so I will always keep these in mind. That you even included asking about a character’s handwriting as part of their personality–SHEER BRILLIANCE!!! LOVE IT!!! THANK YOU for ALL the INSPIRATION!!! I ABSOLUTELY ADORE your work!!!
January 16, 2020 at 9:34 pm
Barbara Lowell
Great post Troy! I love your letter writing dog. What a fantastic idea!
January 16, 2020 at 9:34 pm
Catherine Crosby
I really like your challenge. It would be a great way to teach voice to students and it’s a great writing exercise for an old writer.
January 16, 2020 at 9:37 pm
Joyce
Fun prompts!
January 16, 2020 at 9:43 pm
Kristen Tipman
What a great exercise! Thanks for sharing!
January 16, 2020 at 9:45 pm
Rebecca Heller
Love this idea! Can’t wait to get writing (letters!)
January 16, 2020 at 9:46 pm
teresa.mi.schaefer
What a great challenge. Thank you.
January 16, 2020 at 9:50 pm
ingridboydston
This post is chock full of fun! I especially love the post script.
P.S. My kindergarteners are are big fans of Little Red Gliding Hood 😁
January 16, 2020 at 10:01 pm
adavis6385
What a great exercise! Thanks so much, Troy and congrats on your books!
January 16, 2020 at 10:18 pm
Susan Macartney
Troy – what a great exercise challenge – wonderful idea incubator! Fun to learn the story behind your new book – looking forward to reading Can I Be Your Dog?
January 16, 2020 at 10:59 pm
charlestrevino
Props for prompts!
Inspiring exercise for Voice.
Thank you for the challenges.
January 16, 2020 at 11:04 pm
Jill M Proctor
What a fun exercise! I look forward to giving it a try. Thanks for the suggestion! P.S Your books look like lots of fun!
January 16, 2020 at 11:14 pm
teacherwriteracker
Love this challenge!
January 16, 2020 at 11:15 pm
Rebekah Lowell
Super fun idea! Thanks for the challenges as well.
January 16, 2020 at 11:26 pm
8catpaws
Dear Troy,
Thank you for your idea about writing letters.
Dear 8catpaws,
Put it to good use
January 16, 2020 at 11:32 pm
Katie A Giorgio
Writing letter is the best!
January 16, 2020 at 11:34 pm
Mark Ceilley
I like the idea of writing letters to characters.
Thank you for your challenges!
January 16, 2020 at 11:35 pm
Manju B. Howard (@ManjuBeth)
Hi, Troy! CAN I BE YOUR DOG? is my favorite of all your PBs. I can’t wait to read I FOUND A KITTY!
January 16, 2020 at 11:38 pm
Kelly A.
Love the challenges! Thank you!
January 16, 2020 at 11:44 pm
Maryna Doughty
What an amazing coincidence! I was at the library today and picked up your book (Can I Be Your Dog?), and I read it before even seeing this Storystorm post! I loved how unique each letter/voice was! Your writing challenge sounds like such a good exercise to find my character’s voice. Thank you for the tip! 🙂
January 16, 2020 at 11:45 pm
Liz L.
Super cute! I love Arfy. Thanks for sharing.
January 16, 2020 at 11:47 pm
Sue Martin
WOW
I’m going to have to really challenge myself!
I think you have a fun imagination!
January 16, 2020 at 11:51 pm
Linda Silvestri
Brilliant idea! It makes sense that dialogue would get you closer to the heart of a character, and what better way to get to pure dialogue than letters. I can’t wait to give this challenge a try. Thanks for the great post, Troy!
January 16, 2020 at 11:51 pm
Juliann Caveny
I love epistolary stories/text! (And of course, yours is fantastic! 😉 ) As a reader, it’s such fun to read the different “voices” aloud. As a writer, writing with these other voices really helps add depth the a story (even if I decide to cut the epistolary elements and go with another style). Thanks for sharing your insights with us!
January 17, 2020 at 12:02 am
authorlaurablog
I have several epistolary manuscripts. Love reading them and writing them! ✍🏼💌
January 17, 2020 at 12:35 am
Peggy Dobbs
How fun—what a great way to work on voice! The characters are forming in my mind and I can’t wait to see their personalities develop through letters. Thank you!
January 17, 2020 at 12:41 am
Gaynell
I love exercises in voice! I’ve done a few stories form a male point of view, and I’ve always thought it was interesting. I don’t know that I’ve done it from an animal before… 🙂
January 17, 2020 at 12:47 am
Sandy Perlic
Ooh! Can’t wait to try this. And love the art style of the two books (dog and kitty) you mentioned!
January 17, 2020 at 2:37 am
Jocelyn Rish
What a fun challenge! I already have several potential characters bouncing around my brain!
January 17, 2020 at 3:39 am
percyandcat
Troy, what a cute idea. I like the challenge and I already have ideas rolling around in my head. I never thought of doing this before and it would be nice to not have to deal with dialogue for a change. Thank you so much, I can actually put this to good use.
January 17, 2020 at 3:58 am
Rachel S. Hobbs Gunn
Thank you for the great ideas!
January 17, 2020 at 4:01 am
ruthwilson48
Great ideas, thanks for sharing!
January 17, 2020 at 5:11 am
Diane Tulloch
This is a fun exercise thank you for the tips on how to create distinct voice/voices.
January 17, 2020 at 7:06 am
Nadine Poper
I will be trying this letter writing challenge today! I am on the PA Young Readers Choice Award committee and Can I Be Your Dog will be on the 2020-2021 list! We loved that book. I can’t wait to get my hands on Kitty too!
January 17, 2020 at 7:14 am
Meli Glickman
I love the inspirational messages in letters! And what a great format for storytelling!
January 17, 2020 at 7:26 am
TammyB
I love writing letters but haven’t in a quite awhile. I will try this today! And check out your book…so cute
January 17, 2020 at 7:27 am
rimna
This sounds like a lot of fun – can’t wait to give it a try.
January 17, 2020 at 7:38 am
TerriMichels
Thank you for the challenge. I am going too sit down and write a letter. Maybe to a teacher who gives too much homework on Fridays. Thank you for sharing.
January 17, 2020 at 7:52 am
shannonlhall
Every time I think these Storystorm articles can’t get any better…….they do! This is going to be a fun exercise!
January 17, 2020 at 8:04 am
brilliantviewpoint
Ah, from Indiana! I’m always excited when I see someone from Indiana, in “any industry,” who has done something special. I am from the Indiana Dunes. Wonderful story and sharing of your writing techniques. I will go to the library to try and find your books. Keep on writing, our children need inspiration BEYOND their phones/computers. 🙂
January 17, 2020 at 8:32 am
Kate Molde
Love your book Can I be your Dog! I am reading this to my K-3, as it is a MN Star of the North book nominee!! Thank you for your ideas, I can’t wait to try them
January 17, 2020 at 8:42 am
Anne Young
I just read this book online (left an Amazon review). I had tears. Sooo good. On my to-buy list. Thanks for the suggestions too.
January 17, 2020 at 9:24 am
Freda Lewkowicz
Thank you for the great ideas on how to improve my dull, epistolary PB manuscripts.
January 17, 2020 at 9:36 am
Linda Hofke
Great post. I learned more about voice and can’t wait to try the writing challenges.
Thanks so much!
January 17, 2020 at 9:38 am
juliannahelt
Great challenges. I love stories written in letters but I’ve never tried it myself. Thanks!
January 17, 2020 at 9:53 am
Kara Newhouse
Love the way you broke down elements of character voice in letter-writing!
January 17, 2020 at 10:03 am
kayla6001
Thanks, I think I will try this one
January 17, 2020 at 10:05 am
Rona Shirdan
Thanks for the great tips on how to use voice in this format. I have an idea I think I will try. Time to test it out!
January 17, 2020 at 10:08 am
Megan Whitaker
Love his illustrations and all the fun extras he packs into them-the kids notice! I read the books at school and they all want to see!
January 17, 2020 at 10:28 am
Miki Conn
I love the suggestion and I love the back story. I too adopted a stray dog while I was in college. We became best friends. The idea of telling a story through letters is a great one and its gotten my creative juices started.
January 17, 2020 at 10:28 am
aliciaminor
You excite us all with this fun exercise and really gets everybody’s attention. Let’s transform letter writing into something magical this time. Thanks Troy!
January 17, 2020 at 10:31 am
Juliana Lee
I loved Can I Be Your Dog! Looking forward to I Found a Kitty.
January 17, 2020 at 10:40 am
Mardi Edwards
I loved the idea of letter writing. Thanks for the tips on giving the characters a voice.
January 17, 2020 at 10:46 am
Susie Sawyer
Troy, thank you!! I love this exercise and I can’t wait to try it! I’ve always loved writing dialogue, so this is right up my alley. 🙂 Congratulations on your success!!
January 17, 2020 at 10:50 am
Dawn Young
What a great way to work on voice. Thank you. Excited for I Found a Kitty!
January 17, 2020 at 10:58 am
Genevieve Petrillo
Mom read your book this summer and 5-star LOVED it. I wish I had thought to write letters when I was living alone before Mom adopted me. Also I wish I had hands. With thumbs. And a pencil. And some paper. And that I was tall enough to reach the mailbox. …or the garbage can, but that’s another story altogether…
Love and licks,
Cupcake
January 17, 2020 at 11:11 am
susanzonca
What a wonderful idea! I’ve never tried this before.
January 17, 2020 at 11:15 am
Mary Worley
So many ideas are running around in my head after reading your post. Thank you!! Also, I love Arfy. My dog got “her” kitten last year, and I hope Arfy is getting one, too. 🙂
January 17, 2020 at 11:19 am
Jaclyn Crawford
Thank you for sharing. Now I’m off to do you exercise, can hardly wait.
January 17, 2020 at 11:42 am
Penny Parker Klostermann
I love your books and appreciate the letter-writing challenge. Sounds fun!
January 17, 2020 at 11:52 am
Lynn Alpert
This looks like a fun exercise! Thanks Troy.
January 17, 2020 at 11:53 am
bluerabbit
What a terrific exercise!
January 17, 2020 at 11:56 am
Megan J. Walvoord (@mjwalvoord2)
I love letter writing! What a fun challenge!
January 17, 2020 at 12:00 pm
Prairie Garden Girl
Time to revisit and polish my epistolary picture book manuscript.
Thank you, Troy.
Suzy Leopold
January 17, 2020 at 12:07 pm
Debbie Lodato
Troy, really loved your post on Storystorm. The writing exercise was so much fun. I may incorporate a letter here and there in some stories I’m working on. It really adds so much voice and humor to the story. No wonder your such a great writer……Happy New Year!
January 17, 2020 at 12:13 pm
Gail Hedrick
Wow, I love this technique on so many levels-thank you so much. Also, congrats on the Kitty book-can’t wait to read them both….
January 17, 2020 at 12:14 pm
Abby Wooldridge
Love this post! It sparked an idea for me. Thanks so much, Troy! 🙂
January 17, 2020 at 12:18 pm
mginsberg10
What a fabulous, enlightening exercise, I’m on it!
January 17, 2020 at 12:23 pm
kmajor2013
Great post, Troy! I accept your challenge.
January 17, 2020 at 12:28 pm
Judith Snyder
This will also be a great exercise to dig deeper into characters. Thanks for the idea.
January 17, 2020 at 12:42 pm
mathbookmagic
Excellent post on voice. And I can’t wait to get my paws on Can I be your dog? as a mentor text for voice and because it looks so fun! Thank you!
January 17, 2020 at 12:50 pm
Traci Van Wagoner
Such a fun idea! I love this exercise and am going to add this to my writing arsenal of writing tools. Thanks!
January 17, 2020 at 1:16 pm
Aileen Stewart
I think this has been my favorite post so far. Thanks so much for sharing about voice, Troy :0)
January 17, 2020 at 1:30 pm
KRISTINA COOPER CASTILLO
I had fun with the writing prompt! Thanks so much for your post!
January 17, 2020 at 1:36 pm
Karin Larson
This was a fun post and exercise, thank you!
January 17, 2020 at 1:56 pm
Midge Ballou Smith
Very timely post for me–Thank you, Troy!
January 17, 2020 at 2:16 pm
Helen Lysicatos
Thank you for the post. The writing challenges were fun and helped kick start some creativity.
January 17, 2020 at 2:17 pm
Laurie Bouck
Thank you for such a fun and inspirational post! 😀
January 17, 2020 at 2:54 pm
saintamovin
Thank you for the challenges
January 17, 2020 at 2:54 pm
Corey Rosen Schwartz
Love this post! Challenge accepted!
January 17, 2020 at 2:59 pm
Jenn Belden
Thank you for the challenge! It sparked an idea going in a bit of a different direction, but I’ll take any spark I can find!
January 17, 2020 at 3:06 pm
Gayle Veitenheimer
Great idea! Thanks for the challenge!
January 17, 2020 at 3:09 pm
kirstenbockblog
Ooh, can’t wait to try this challenge! Thanks!
January 17, 2020 at 3:20 pm
Judy Sobanski
I’ve never written an epistolary manuscript. Thanks for the challenge!
January 17, 2020 at 3:33 pm
Jill Lambert (@LJillLambert)
Thank you, Troy, for the challenge. I’ve got several ideas bubbling up!
January 17, 2020 at 3:45 pm
Damon Dean, SevenAcreSky
Troy, love your illustration style, but now see the POWER behind your epistolary PB creation. Those four points on voice—priceless advice.
January 17, 2020 at 3:59 pm
Angela Padron
Great ideas ! Thank you for this post.
January 17, 2020 at 4:16 pm
Jolene Gutierrez
Thanks so much for the writing exercises, Troy! I LOVE Can I Be Your Dog and can’t wait to read I Found a Kitty! 🙂
January 17, 2020 at 4:42 pm
Michele Helsel
Just today I was rereading one of my manuscripts when I realized one of my character’s voice was totally inconsistent. I’ll use your questions to guide revising this. And I maybe can accent how he’s different than the other character. So cool! Can’t wait to read I Found a Kitty!
January 17, 2020 at 5:06 pm
Lauren Barbieri
I love this method of storytelling! Thank you for these great exercises. Looking forward to your next book!
January 17, 2020 at 5:07 pm
Carol Gordon Ekster
CAN I BE YOUR DOG? is a brilliant concept! Kuddos to you. Thanks for sharing. Wishing you many more #kidlit successes.
January 17, 2020 at 5:42 pm
Mary Warth
Great challenge- thanks Troy!
January 17, 2020 at 5:51 pm
Maria Marshall
Troy, That was FUN! My mind is still spinning with ideas. Including a “prequel” to a MS. Hmm. Thanks for lots of inspiration!
January 17, 2020 at 5:52 pm
Angie
What fun! Love the challenge of writing in letters. Thanks for the example and the strategies!
January 17, 2020 at 6:03 pm
anneiversonbellsouthnet
Remarkable exercise! Thank you for a novel and creative way to make your characters come alive and breathe!
January 17, 2020 at 6:04 pm
Rebecca Gardyn Levington
This book is one of my absolute favorites! So clever and hilarious! Thank you for sharing the story behind its creation, and for the awesome challenges! 🙂
January 17, 2020 at 6:08 pm
carolmunrojww
I LOVE this idea of characters communicating via letters. Soooo much fun! Thanks!
January 17, 2020 at 6:39 pm
Dee Leone
I love the idea of honing in on characters’ voices by writing letters. Great post!
January 17, 2020 at 6:45 pm
Laurie Knowlton
Thanks for the challenge! I’m on it !
January 17, 2020 at 7:10 pm
Leah
I loved doing this exercise!
January 17, 2020 at 7:32 pm
Kellie
Wow Troy – I wish I’d thought of this. What a fabulous idea … and, as you say, a great way to develop the craft of writing voice!
January 17, 2020 at 8:45 pm
Janet Frenck Sheets
I’d like to try writing a book with more than one dominant character, and this sounds like a great exercise for that.
January 17, 2020 at 8:49 pm
kathydoherty1
Troy, you are as nice as you are talented. I look forward to your next book!
January 17, 2020 at 10:07 pm
Virginia Rinkel
I love this dog!!!
January 17, 2020 at 10:22 pm
Jilanne Hoffmann
I’ve enjoyed writing in epistolary form, because I LOVE to “do” different voices. And I love this dog!! So does my son….
January 17, 2020 at 10:25 pm
Noelle McBride
Can’t wait to read I Found a Kitty! (On my birthday, March 3rd!)
January 17, 2020 at 10:57 pm
Viviane Elbee
Thank you for sharing the inspiration behind Can I Be Your Dog. Writing letters between characters sounds like a great prompt.
January 17, 2020 at 11:34 pm
Deb McGarvey
This seems like it will be a great way to work on character voice and hopefully find inspiration for other aspects of a story too. Thanks for these writing exercises!
January 17, 2020 at 11:56 pm
angiecal76
Hi Troy. I get the feeling that you don’t need to steal jokes from your family. You’re a funny guy all on your own! Love your letter writing activity. Thanks for the great tips.
January 18, 2020 at 12:57 am
Joannie Duris
Love the idea of using letters to strengthen voice. Great exercises to explore adding our own spin to characters. Thank you! Congratulations on all your writing successes. And I can’t wait to find out what happens to Kitty.
January 18, 2020 at 1:34 am
Kaye Baillie
Awesome idea, Troy. I hadn’t thought of doing this.
January 18, 2020 at 1:51 am
Zoraida Rivera
Very interesting post! We need letters! Too much texting. It was so great receiving them!
I just.got an idea. Must.go!
January 18, 2020 at 2:04 am
topangamaria
Adorable sneaky postscript and great voice analysis tips.
January 18, 2020 at 4:51 am
Keila Dawson
Great lesson how to write voice. And I am so happy you wrote a sequel!
January 18, 2020 at 8:09 am
Carolyn Bennett Fraiser
I love dog stories. Working on one of my own but it’s not found its form yet.
January 18, 2020 at 9:23 am
Amy Wagner
I like the idea of playing with volume. Thanks for the tips!
January 18, 2020 at 10:15 am
Kim Wilson
What a great challenge! Thank you!
January 18, 2020 at 10:50 am
Matt Forrest Esenwine
Having a character write a letter is a good exercise if for no other reason than to simply help you get a better understanding of the character – if you can write the entire book that way, even better! Congratulations!
January 18, 2020 at 11:02 am
jimchaize1
I plan to give this letter writing challenge a try. Thanks, Troy.
January 18, 2020 at 11:26 am
Deborah Foster
This is such a great idea! I think I might try this on one of my manuscripts!
January 18, 2020 at 11:50 am
KASteed
Excellent challenges! Can’t wait to get started.
January 18, 2020 at 11:57 am
dlapmandi
Great challenges. I am going to try both of them! Thanks.
January 18, 2020 at 12:36 pm
Shar
i love this method of getting to know the character’s voice. Thank you for sharing!
January 18, 2020 at 12:45 pm
melissamiles1
Thanks so much for this great example of how one idea can lead to something amazing. Congrats on the huge success of your finished product. I’m going to have to grab that book. I love dogs and letters, so it’s a perfect mix. 🙂 Thanks for the prompt. I’ll see what I can come up with, and voice in picture books has been a struggle for me.
January 18, 2020 at 1:13 pm
makz5650
Great challenge! I love writing exercises and prompts to get the creativity flowing. Thanks for this. I will be working on it!
January 18, 2020 at 1:35 pm
Mary Jo Wagner
I have had a desire to write an epistolary book for years! Thank you for rekindling that idea with some other cool ideas to think about!
January 18, 2020 at 2:07 pm
sharron mcelmeel
Great back story to a story (ies) that young readers will love.
January 18, 2020 at 2:13 pm
Elizabeth Duncan
What a great idea to write an epistolary book! I will give it a try.
January 18, 2020 at 2:19 pm
Aimee Isaac
This is such a fun exercise!Thank you!
January 18, 2020 at 2:53 pm
Susan Orton
What a fun challenge! Thank you! I love your advice about character and voice. It’s perfect! This will tap into a side of me I have not explored as yet.
January 18, 2020 at 4:05 pm
Lori Mozdzierz
Can already see how the letter exercise will flush out a few yarns I’ve run into knots with. Thanks, Troy for the share!
January 18, 2020 at 5:05 pm
Stephen S. Martin
Great idea. I think letters are great and it is a shame that texting an email has virtually made letter writing obsolete.
January 18, 2020 at 9:40 pm
Stephanie Lau
Thanks for sharing the exercises! Looking forward to seeing book 2.
January 18, 2020 at 9:51 pm
Buffy Silverman
Terrific exercise–thank you!!
January 19, 2020 at 1:10 am
Susan Eyerman
This opens a new way of brainstorming. Thank you!
January 19, 2020 at 8:17 am
studiojcd
Nom nom nom, poor doggie!! I can’t wait to see the kitty in action. Thank you for the tip, it’s always fun to imagine what someone might be thinking or saying. What a great idea – and letters are such a lost art.
January 19, 2020 at 8:41 am
Joana Pastro
Thanks for this post, Troy. I’ve been wanting to write an epistolary book for a while now. I’m saving this post for future reference once I finally settle with an idea. Can’t wait to get my hands on your new book!
January 19, 2020 at 9:18 am
Beth Gallagher
Oh I just LOVED this exercise!!! Thank you for such a wonderful post and inspiring task! 😃
January 19, 2020 at 10:03 am
Marci Hoyt
I read Can I Be Your Dog? to all 7 of my 2nd grade classes this past week and there was applause from each class! So glad to know there is a sequel coming – can’t wait to share the news with my kiddos.
January 19, 2020 at 10:50 am
Rachel Funez
What a fun writing prompt! Can’t wait to dig in.
January 19, 2020 at 11:16 am
shanah salter
Great tips for getting into a character’s voice. thank you!
January 19, 2020 at 11:20 am
Mary Ann Cortez
Great exercise idea. I cant wait to try this one out.
January 19, 2020 at 11:28 am
Jill Friestad-Tate
I love this idea! It is a great tool to help find the voice of your characters. Thanks!
January 19, 2020 at 11:29 am
claireannette1
I love epistolary books and have tried writing them – now I can see why they weren’t working. Thanks for your great post on developing voice. I just reread Can I Be Your Dog? It’s such a fun book.
January 19, 2020 at 11:29 am
Jill Friestad-Tate
Great idea to help find voice, thanks!
January 19, 2020 at 11:52 am
Joan Swanson
I love your lessons for voice. I’m ready to try this!
January 19, 2020 at 1:23 pm
rindabeach
Dear Troy,
Thank you for the suggestion to use letters. Now, to figure out who to write to. OOH! I started with you!
Your Storystorm Friend,
Rinda
January 19, 2020 at 1:32 pm
LenoraBiemans (@BiemansLenora)
Love this exercise and LOVE LOVE LOVE Can I be Your Dog? Such a great mentor text.
January 19, 2020 at 5:02 pm
Sarah Wolfe
I love this idea! We can’t wait for your new book!
January 19, 2020 at 7:42 pm
julielacombeauthor
I LOVE this challeng! It helped me over a creative slump! Thank you!!!!!!
January 19, 2020 at 9:01 pm
writersideup
This is definitely a good exercise to practice (first person) voice, Troy, and you did SUCH a great job in CAN I BE YOUR DOG? LOVE the book!
January 19, 2020 at 9:38 pm
Rachel
Looking forward to this exercise. Very interesting!
January 19, 2020 at 9:49 pm
Nicole Loos Miller
What a fun (but also concrete) way to come up with some fresh ideas! I need concrete in mid-January 🙂 Thank you!
January 19, 2020 at 9:50 pm
Susanne Whitehouse
We just did letter writing lessons with your book this week in the library, so it was fun to read your post. Thank you!
January 19, 2020 at 10:39 pm
Lauri Meyers
This is so great! Love these exercises.
January 20, 2020 at 2:48 am
Linda Whalen
Love this challenge!
January 20, 2020 at 2:58 am
debbiemoeller
This is a great challenge that I will definitely try. Love your books. So cute!
January 20, 2020 at 3:50 am
Michelle Kashinsky
Thank you so much for giving an assignment! Great writing prompts and much appreciated!
January 20, 2020 at 7:54 am
sharongiltrow
Oh I love a challenge, they are so motivating so I’m going to do it :-). Thanks Troy!
January 20, 2020 at 10:30 am
Judy Palermo
Love this book! Thanks!
January 20, 2020 at 11:03 am
BARBARA SENENMAN
WOW! Love this! These are great exercises! Thank you!
January 20, 2020 at 11:16 am
Jennifer Hunt
LOVE your post. Your book sounds so full of voice and the illustrations adorable. I’m off to get a copy. And I can’t wait to try the challenges.
January 20, 2020 at 2:42 pm
Angela H. Dale
I love this idea – it’s a great way to explore voice – and also fold more characters into a story without being confusing.
January 20, 2020 at 2:45 pm
Angela H. Dale
This is such a great way to explore voice – and fold more characters into a story in a fun, clear way. Thanks.
January 20, 2020 at 2:47 pm
deniseaengle
LOVE this! Thank you, Troy. Inspired.
January 20, 2020 at 3:35 pm
Kristin Wauson
I can’t wait to try this exercise and thank you for teaching me the word epistolary!
January 20, 2020 at 4:46 pm
CeCeLibrarian
This is a great challenge to try with our students too. They adored Can I be Your Dog and since we read it around National Poetry Month, our students wrote poems but of course, now I am imagining the fun they will have writing letters between characters.
January 20, 2020 at 4:50 pm
Mary York
Troy, I accept the letter-writing challenge! Thanks!
January 20, 2020 at 6:27 pm
eross
The specific parameters you outlined for developing voice are so appreciated! It’s 1 thing to advise writers to create unique voices for their characters, but it’s another thing altogether to give clear parameters on how! Thank you!
January 20, 2020 at 8:04 pm
Heather Kelso
Thank you for the great post about voice. I plan on doing the challenges!
January 20, 2020 at 9:17 pm
stephaniewildman
Brilliant! thank you.
January 20, 2020 at 9:19 pm
vgraboski61gmailcom
Great idea to work on voice! Excited to read your books. I can tell from your “voice” in the post, that your books are likely really fun!
January 20, 2020 at 9:20 pm
ammwrite3
Your characters are adorable—thanks for the advice on voice!
January 20, 2020 at 10:11 pm
jacquesartandbooks
Great challenge, thanks Troy
January 20, 2020 at 10:12 pm
jacquesartandbooks
PS. I really enjoyed your post 🙂
January 20, 2020 at 11:37 pm
Karen Lawler
The idea of writing letters is fabulous! I love writing letters especially when email has taken over. Thanks for the mind jogger.. 🙂
January 21, 2020 at 12:30 am
Karan Greene
This is such a great challenge! Thank you for sharing!
January 21, 2020 at 12:46 am
susan schade
Thank you for the writing prompt idea! Ideas are already rolling….
January 21, 2020 at 2:49 am
Joanne Roberts
I never get tired of reading epistolary picture books, though I’ve never tried writing one. Challenge accepted. Thanks.
January 21, 2020 at 7:12 am
Elle
Fantastic exercises! Love them
January 21, 2020 at 10:08 am
Charlotte Offsay
What a fun exercise!
January 21, 2020 at 10:54 am
leahpsmoser
Great advice and exercise. Thank you.
January 21, 2020 at 1:39 pm
LaurenKerstein
What a terrific, inspiring post! I have a few new ideas, just from your post! Thank you!
January 21, 2020 at 8:03 pm
Nancy Kotkin
This is a great writing exercise, and works with characters of any age. I adore Arfy and fell in love with his letters. Can’t wait to read the sequel.
January 21, 2020 at 10:25 pm
Elizabeth Metz
Aaaaand this post directly led to a new idea. Thanks, Troy!
January 22, 2020 at 2:37 am
Amanda Malek-Ahmadi
Thanks for the inspiration. I am going to definitely try the challenge!
January 22, 2020 at 5:49 am
Becky H
I love this idea. Letter writing here I come x
January 22, 2020 at 10:17 am
doreenrobinson
OMG this is genius! Thank you for the challenge – I’m totally in!
January 22, 2020 at 10:43 am
Anita Palmeri Overgaard
I LOVE this idea! Thank you!!
January 22, 2020 at 3:01 pm
Lisa Tolin (@lisatolin)
Such a great exercise for bringing dimension to any character. Thank you!
January 22, 2020 at 3:32 pm
angie9091
Love your story starters.
January 22, 2020 at 10:07 pm
Jane Dippold
What a good challenge to create a great story! I love your art style and can’t wait for your new book! Congrats!
January 23, 2020 at 9:38 am
audiencedog
Love your book (the solution was under our nose the whole time!), and I look forward to your new one!
January 23, 2020 at 4:00 pm
Mita Martino
Love the different voices in your book! And helped me to realize that I may need to do that with the characters in mine!
January 23, 2020 at 6:11 pm
jessicadunnagan
i love the ideas for creating distinct voices for the characters in their notes!
January 24, 2020 at 3:50 am
Marcia Berneger
Great ideas for prompts!!
January 24, 2020 at 9:53 am
dinatowbin
I love the idea of characters writing letters to each other. Could they be texts nowadays? hmmm. Congrats on all your success. Thanks for giving us a bone to chew on (pun intended).
January 24, 2020 at 2:54 pm
gaby
Hi Troy, your post is one of my challenge ones, I need to read many times, and after searching, I understand completly, St Paul¨ letters. The voice sound is an amazing tool, and also challange. I will keep in mind the illustration of your book a dog holding a letter, for many, many days. I like to read your book.
January 24, 2020 at 5:54 pm
Beth Schneider
Can’t wait to read I FOUND A KITTY!
January 24, 2020 at 7:04 pm
imagination4lf
Troy, thanks for the awesome challenges to try! Looking forward to reading I Found a Kitty!
January 24, 2020 at 8:16 pm
Becky Shillington
This is a FANTASTIC post, Troy! Thanks so much for these suggestions!
January 24, 2020 at 9:27 pm
Janet Halfmann
I definitely have to try having two characters write letters to one another. Sound like fun.
January 24, 2020 at 9:43 pm
Judy Shemtob
Love your article, Troy! Can’t wait to write letters between two past animal characters in my life!
January 25, 2020 at 8:07 am
rhumba20
Thank you Troy! I know how some ideas on how to better develop my character’s voice.
Anna Levin
January 25, 2020 at 11:30 am
Kelly Vavala
Very funny and challenging post this morning and I thank you for that! What fun! Your books sound just perfect! I wish you continued success and with your sense of humor I see it happening!
January 25, 2020 at 1:04 pm
Della Ross Ferreri
Great post! Your topic gave me an amazing push in the right direction for one of my PB mss! Off to work on it! And thank you for the giveaway!
January 25, 2020 at 5:12 pm
McCourt Thomas
Love the writing challenge – thank you!
January 25, 2020 at 5:49 pm
Judy Bryan
Ooooh, I like this challenge, thank you! Wishing you much continued success!!
January 25, 2020 at 6:14 pm
thesheilster
What great ideas! Thank you for giving me inspiration.
January 25, 2020 at 6:29 pm
Sheri Dillard
Aww, I loved CAN I BE YOUR DOG? and I can’t wait to read I FOUND A KITTY! Thanks for the great post! 🙂
January 25, 2020 at 7:53 pm
chichiscraps
What an amazing exercise for focusing on the voice of your characters. Thank you for a great post!
January 26, 2020 at 12:52 am
jessica shaw
Thank you for this great post, Troy:) CAN I BE YOUR DOG is a favorite in my classroom and I can’t wait for I FOUND A KITTY!
January 26, 2020 at 7:25 am
Writer on the run
Thanks Troy! I go back and review each post and take notes, and I love your challenge! I am keeping your suggestions in mind for an idea I have!
January 26, 2020 at 4:58 pm
Judith Aplin
Oh..how my granddaughter and I LOVE your book about Arfy…It is heart touching throughout and has such a satisfactory ending! Now we look forward to I FOUND A KITTY!
January 26, 2020 at 5:58 pm
Terri Sabol
“Can I Be Your Dog?” was one of my favorite books last year (even though I’m a cat person). So I love that there’s a follow-up about a cat! Great post!!! Thank you!!!
January 27, 2020 at 1:40 am
Amanda Sincavage
I love the exercises! Thanks for sharing!
January 27, 2020 at 11:52 am
alisongoldberg
Thanks for sharing these exercises! This is such a helpful way to explore voice.
January 27, 2020 at 1:07 pm
Ashley Bankhead
This is such a fun exercise! Thank you for sharing. I’m going to write two letters between characters today.
January 27, 2020 at 2:19 pm
nicolesalterbraun
You taught me a new word, today-epistolary. And I accept your challenge! TY
January 27, 2020 at 4:33 pm
JG
Ooooh, I’m going to have fun with this! Thanks!
January 27, 2020 at 5:42 pm
Dee Brown
I like your parameters for characters. Thanks for the challenges.
January 27, 2020 at 5:55 pm
Dawn Prochovnic
What a fun exercise. Thanks!
January 28, 2020 at 9:19 am
Michelle O'Hara Levin
Great exercises! Thank you. Cannot wait to get this new book in my school library.
January 28, 2020 at 12:57 pm
megcason1
I’ve got stories based on childhood pets as well!!
Thank you for this post!
January 28, 2020 at 4:13 pm
Sylvia Chen
Wow, great exercise, thank you!
January 28, 2020 at 7:43 pm
Anne Appert
I can’t wait to try this challenge. Thank you for your post!
January 28, 2020 at 10:41 pm
Laura Renauld
I’ve always wanted to try a story written in letters. Thanks for the inspiration!
January 29, 2020 at 12:03 am
tiffanydickinson
What sweet books! Thank you for the reminders – and how-to’s – of making our characters have their own voices.
January 29, 2020 at 2:04 am
Darshana
Can’t wait to try this exercise!
January 29, 2020 at 12:29 pm
Amy Healey
Love this!
January 30, 2020 at 6:44 pm
LJ Laniewski
I love postscripts, too! I also love your bio. Thank you for sharing the evolution of Can I Be Your Dog. I can’t wait to dig into your challenges…and check out your books.
January 30, 2020 at 6:55 pm
Cindy
I’m going to try your challenges. What great ideas!
January 30, 2020 at 8:16 pm
Lynne Marie
Challenges accepted. Thanks so much!
January 30, 2020 at 9:02 pm
Lucy Staugler
Troy, challenge accepted! Game on! Fabulous post. Thank you!
January 31, 2020 at 1:08 am
Dani Duck
Thanks Troy! I got two great ideas while just reading your post. I’m sure more are to come.
January 31, 2020 at 1:43 am
Brenda Grant Lower
What a great idea! I’ve read novels like this, but picture books would be great!
January 31, 2020 at 8:48 pm
kmshelley
Thanks for the exercise! Can’t wait to try it!
February 1, 2020 at 7:06 pm
Maria J Cuesta
I love love love this post. I am off to write letters now. Thank you!
February 2, 2020 at 7:57 pm
Jefna M. Cohen
These are great prompts/assignments. I read CAN I BE YOUR DOG? to my kindergarten class and cried. It’s just so sweet and so important to adopt animals! My family adopted a crazy mutt this year and we love him to pieces. And write the occasional letter back and forth. 😉
February 5, 2020 at 12:55 am
Lucretia
Thanks for the insights on voice and writing challenge! Wonderful post, Troy.
February 13, 2020 at 2:08 pm
Quinette Cook
CAN I BE YOUR DOG? is too cute. This was a fun exercise.
February 19, 2020 at 11:24 am
Kelly Conroy
Yes! I can’t wait to try this, and I had a lot of fun reading your book too. Loved the ending. Thanks for contributing!
January 16, 2021 at 4:36 pm
Jayne Wilson
Thank you ever so much for this lovely post. I’m also going to give the children in my class this challenge. It will be so much fun. I so love your book. It brings back lots of beautiful memories of my beagle Hamish. Congratulations on the new book & I can’t wait to get both & share them with the children in my class! Thank you! ❤️