If you’ve attended any SCBWI conference or followed writers on Twitter for longer than a minute, you’ve probably heard the message loud and clear.
Write what you know.
Know what you write.
We need #OwnVoices.
The push for diversity is strong, vital, and long overdue in the picture book world. I challenge you to go to any bookstore or library and pull books off the shelf, separating them by the protagonist’s race. Despite the recent push for #OwnVoices, over 50% of the books printed in 2018 depicted white characters.
Considering that the other 50% includes characters that are every other race as well as animals, crayons, vehicles, letters, and anything else inanimate or not human, you can see that we still aren’t where we need to be.
Granted, we’ve come a long way. In 2015, over 73% of picture books featured white characters.
Not exactly representative of the world in which we live.
In 2018, I really wanted to write a nonfiction picture book biography about Aretha Franklin. As a musician who used to close shows with her song Respect, I admired so much more than her voice. Her songwriting skills, her piano talents, her civil rights activism…when I was little, I wanted to be Aretha. So when she passed away in 2018, I thought, “Do it. Write her story.”
Then I attended SCBWI Midsouth and Cheryl Klein burst my bubble.
Someone asked, “How can you best write from the point of view of someone who’s a different race?” I leaned forward on the edge of my seat and curled my hands over the keys of my laptop, prepared to feverishly type her every word. And you know what she said?
“Don’t.”
Wait. What?
“Don’t,” she said. “If you’re white, don’t make your protagonist black. Don’t make them Latino. Because you can’t know that voice.”
She went on to talk about the importance of the #OwnVoices movement. Now, not every editor will agree with her, certainly, but she was firm in her convictions. And it got me thinking.
I wanted so badly to write Aretha’s story, but now I felt stymied. I’m white…but I’m so passionate about Aretha.
And then it hit me. One of the reasons I’m passionate about Aretha is because…I am a musician.
My mind whirred. At the time, I was between agents. I hadn’t sold a book in almost two years. The last thing I wanted was to pour myself into a manuscript that no one would even open because they thought I was telling a story that would be told better by someone else.
So, I thought, whose story could I tell better than anyone else?
The idea struck like thunder.
I spent seven years actively battling illness, two of them walking with a cane or in a wheelchair. Although I’m now in remission, those years changed me. I can still picture the way people looked away from me in the airport. The discomfort on the faces of passing strangers who wouldn’t make eye contact. The sting of that kind of isolation doesn’t fade away.
So how could I use that experience to write a story that might help others?
My very first Google search for “disabled musicians” brought me to deaf percussionist, Evelyn Glennie. I watched her documentaries, listened to her interviews, played her music, and just knew.
Hers was a story that I could write.
That I needed to write.
Within a month of interviewing Evelyn, that story wrote itself, went to Acquisitions at its first house, and brought me interest from five agents. Less than two months after writing the story, it sold to Dial.
So how can you apply this to your life? How can you turn #OwnVoices into your #OwnSuccessStory?
Get out a piece of paper. Go ahead. I’ll wait.
Now, make a list of things that you love. Subjects you’ve studied. Hobbies you’ve had for years. Instruments you play. Foods you cook.
What are you good at? Write it all down. What makes you different? Are you a redhead? Jewish? ADHD? Color blind? Write it down.
What makes you YOU?
Write it aaallllllll down.
Then, go through this list and ask yourself—which of those things make you happy? Which of those things are you passionate about? Which of those things makes you relatable?
Maybe, instead of listing everything at once, you can write a new passion each day along with your StoryStorm idea. Or maybe one of every five ideas can include something about which you’re passionate. But find a way to weave the things you love into your stories.
If you write from a place of passion, your reader will know. They will feel it. Racial diversity is certainly a major part of the movement, but #OwnVoices isn’t just about racial diversity.
It’s about owning your voice.
So write what you know.
Know what you write.
And own your voice. The world is just waiting to hear it.
Shannon Stocker is an award-winning author and proud word nerd who lives in Louisville, KY, with her husband, Greg, and their children, Cassidy and Tye. Her debut picture book, CAN U SAVE THE DAY (Sleeping Bear Press), released in 2019, her nonfiction PB bio about Evelyn Glennie entitled LISTEN: HOW ONE DEAF GIRL CHANGED PERCUSSION comes out with Dial (Penguin/Random House) in 2022, and several of Shannon’s nonfiction essays have been published in Chicken Soup for the Soul. Shannon currently serves as SCBWI social co-director for Louisville, a judge for Rate Your Story, and she created the blog series, Pivotal Moments: inHERview, highlighting transitional life stories of female picture book authors. Cool facts: Currently writing her memoir, Shannon is a medical school graduate, a coma survivor, an RSD/CRPS patient and advocate, and a singer/songwriter who once performed two songs, including one original, as part of an opening act for Blake Shelton. Shannon is represented by Allison Remcheck of Stimola Literary Studio.
Visit Shannon at shannonstocker.com, Facebook, or follow her on Twitter @iwriteforkidz and Instagram @iwriteforkidz.
Shannon is giving away a copy of her debut CAN U SAVE THE DAY and a 30-minute Skype consultation (to discuss your writing career, writing in verse, a particular manuscript, whatever you’d like). Two separate winners will be selected.
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!
514 comments
Comments feed for this article
January 22, 2020 at 7:03 am
Dee Knabb
Step by step great advice for finding your voice. Thanks, Shannon! Kudos for your success.
January 22, 2020 at 8:42 am
Dina
Shannon,
Thank you for this article. I am working on a piece now that I need to infuse with more “me” in it. This is the inspiration I needed.
January 22, 2020 at 7:09 am
Meli Glickman
Brilliant post! What wonderful words to remind us to write about our passions and what we know, and to never give up. Many thanks for sharing!
January 22, 2020 at 7:11 am
thecrowsmap
Shannon, I love your story and guidance. I remember feeling the same as you did when I heard Cheryl Klein speak. I wonder if we were at the same conference! Congratulations on your books!
Gail Hartman
January 22, 2020 at 7:11 am
Colleen Dabney
Fabulous time saving advice! Thank you!
January 22, 2020 at 7:13 am
jodieparachini
Fab, Fab, Fab entry! Thank you Shannon for telling your story, and for encouraging us to tell our own.
January 22, 2020 at 7:14 am
Andrea Mack
Thanks for this inspiring message this morning! Great suggestions for developing ideas that come from your own passions and perspective.
January 22, 2020 at 7:15 am
Linda Mitchell
I love this post because I spend a lot of time wondering…what DO I have to say that’s different? This way in to thinking about what I’m good at or have a passion for is a fresh way of thinking that I need to do. Thank you!
January 22, 2020 at 7:28 am
Kathi Morrison-Taylor
Thanks, Shannon. And I’m sure you’ve thought of this, but a little girl of any race obsessed with Aretha Franklin would be a great story to share!
January 22, 2020 at 7:31 am
Robin Perkins
Looking at different times in our lives, delving into our different selves, is a great source for story ideas.
January 22, 2020 at 7:38 am
Bettie Boswell
Thank you. I came across some of the same frustrations and this post opened my eyes to a new way of thinking.
January 22, 2020 at 7:39 am
Jeanne Cherney
I am writing my passions right now. Thank you!
January 22, 2020 at 7:40 am
kiwijenny
Thank you from the bottom of my heart.
January 22, 2020 at 7:40 am
Kelly Jaques
Very inspiring and powerful post, Shannon, thank you so much! And congratulations on your publications!
January 22, 2020 at 7:47 am
Cathy L. Murphy
I respect your voice, Shannon! Thanks for sharing your path.
January 22, 2020 at 7:48 am
orchardka
Thank you, Shannon! This is a topic I’ve thought about as well. And thank you also for your generous giveaway!!
January 22, 2020 at 7:49 am
Katherine
Splendid suggestions! Thank you.
January 22, 2020 at 7:53 am
Kathy Erskine
Listing your passions, daily—what a great idea, Shannon!
January 22, 2020 at 7:54 am
Marianne Knowles
Shannon, this is GREAT! Thank you for this structured plan for finding our own voices. And WOW, you have quite the resume! Inspiring!
January 22, 2020 at 7:54 am
Marsha Diane Arnold
Very inspiring, Shannon.
January 22, 2020 at 7:55 am
TammyB
Perfect post! I am off to make my list.
January 22, 2020 at 7:56 am
kimpfenn
What an inspiring post! A great guide to find ourselves and our way!
January 22, 2020 at 7:57 am
Jennifer Blanck
As a drummer, I can’t wait to read your new picture book! In the meantime, I’m writing it all down!
January 22, 2020 at 8:01 am
Suzanne Lewis
Your experience is so real, so touching, so wise and inspiring in helping us find our own unique voice. Thank you, Shannon!
January 22, 2020 at 8:01 am
Lauri Fortino
Wow, what an interesting perspective! Thanks for sharing!
January 22, 2020 at 8:03 am
Robin Jordan
Yes! We all are living stories! We might as tell our own! Thank you for the logical and inspirational post, Shannon. Have a fantabulous day!
January 22, 2020 at 8:05 am
Laurie Carmody
Thank you so much for encouraging everyone, Shannon. Your post means so much.
January 22, 2020 at 8:06 am
Sallye O'Rourke
great exercise and inspiration!
January 22, 2020 at 8:13 am
Ashley Congdon (@AshleyCCongdon)
Great advice! Write what you’ve lived.
January 22, 2020 at 8:15 am
Sarah Hetu-Radny
This was exactly what I needed to hear, Shannon. I’m white and feeling left out of what I THOUGHT #ownvoices was… I had NO IDEA I could write about things that are me (well, I won’t list them here but there’s plenty!) and legitimately be part of the #ownvoices movement!! I feel freed (b/c I didn’t want to step on anyone’s toes or write about anything I was not supposed to write about) up to write even MORE now! (My story and convictions are similar to yours, but without the PBs published yet, lol.)
January 22, 2020 at 8:15 am
michelemeleen
Thank you for this message! My accountability partner and I are both white and have been talking a lot about how we can fit into #ownvoices. I’ve never seen this perspective shared before and it’s really inspiring for those of us who might feel too normal in this diverse world😁
January 22, 2020 at 8:16 am
Zoraida Rivera
How inspiring, Shannon. Thanks for sharing your story and for giving so many ideas to help us own our voices and give what each of us has, our uniqueness. Wish you success, health and great experiences..
January 22, 2020 at 8:17 am
tanyakonerman
Great way to mine for ideas I can best speak to!
January 22, 2020 at 8:21 am
bgonsar
Very inspiring advice. Thanks Shannon!
January 22, 2020 at 8:22 am
rosecappelli
Thanks for the wise words, Shannon. I’m bookmarking this post for re-reading as I gear up for Nonfiction Fest in February. And congratulations on your successes!
January 22, 2020 at 8:27 am
Marty lapointe-malchik
Thank you, Shannon. You are a great role model for resilience and persistence. To reassess and honor your drive to want to write a biography after hearing Cheryl Klein speak was a powerful step forward. Writing about what we’re passionate about makes so much sense yet I anticipate many surprises when I list my passions, interests, and hobbies. Your giveaways are so generous. Who doesn’t love to talk shop and get guidance from a published picture book author? Tara, I’m so appreciative of your Storystorm efforts in bringing Shannon’s inspiration to all of us today.
January 22, 2020 at 8:28 am
melissamiles1
Oh, how I’d love to discuss my latest MS with you! Thanks for the encouragement, and reminding me that I have stories to tell!
January 22, 2020 at 8:36 am
M.R.
Although it’s disappointing that Cheryl Klein slapped down your dream of writing about Aretha, one thing I heard at the SCBWI-Florida conference is that there are no coincidences. The fact that this disappointment led to your PB story about a relatively unknown musician is proof that a downer experience could actually leave you open to new and better projects. Thanks for your tips about recognizing your own passions and #OwnVoices.
January 22, 2020 at 8:37 am
Lori Sheroan
I grew up in Appalachia; and some of my strongest memories and emotions are tied to my mountain home. Thanks for the reminder!
January 22, 2020 at 8:41 am
Jan Milusich
😮 Wow
January 22, 2020 at 8:43 am
Mardi Edwards
I enjoyed your suggestion of writing about my interests and ideas I like to write a story.
January 22, 2020 at 8:45 am
tinamcho
Congrats on finding your #ownvoice! I love your idea to list our passions and what makes us unique!
January 22, 2020 at 8:47 am
Shanah salter
Great post!
January 22, 2020 at 8:47 am
gayleckrause
Excellent post on diversity. Too often we don’t think outside of the “own voices” box. Thanks for sharing. 😉
January 23, 2020 at 2:15 am
Gail Atherley
Excellent advice! Why is it such a challenge to define your own voice, your own passion? Good way to kick start the discovery process. Thank you!!
January 22, 2020 at 8:49 am
Kathy
Shannon, you are an inspiration!
January 22, 2020 at 8:52 am
Beth Charles
Write what you know is always good advice. Lots to think about here.
January 22, 2020 at 8:53 am
Viviane Elbee
This is such a fantastic post! I can’t wait to read your new book – we loved your previous book!
January 22, 2020 at 8:54 am
Michele Ziemke
❤️❤️❤️ I really needed this post, so thank you! I recently wrote a MG about a girl in a military family— me. It was my own voice, an ode to my own childhood. So I can call it #ownvoice!
Now I’m picking up my #storystorm notebook to jot down all the things I’m passionate about!
January 22, 2020 at 9:00 am
heatherbell37
Love this advice and the additional challenge of finding your passions and self. Thanks for sharing!
January 22, 2020 at 9:01 am
Kathy Halsey
Shannon, you are such a wise, talented woman. This is a much needed topic that we need to address. Write what is distinctly ours! TY.
January 22, 2020 at 9:04 am
Writer on the run
This was a very helpful post! I have written a story about a young girl from an indigenous people, and, while I have some knowledge about the culture, I have never felt comfortable about the story. My critique groups loved it, but I can’t answer the question “Why is this story yours to tell?” – because it isn’t. Thanks for your insights.
January 22, 2020 at 9:04 am
pathaap
Powerful post, Shannon. Thanks for the inspiration and congratulations on your upcoming book!
January 22, 2020 at 9:07 am
Leigh Therriault
I like the thought of trying to figure out your #ownvoices story through brainstorming… I wasn’t even sure I had one, but maybe I do!
January 22, 2020 at 9:07 am
Karrie Zylstra
I have thought much about what you wrote here, Shannon, and would love to talk to you about it because I see the tremendous value of the OwnVoices movement and because it has been challenging for me at times, too.
January 22, 2020 at 9:08 am
dinatowbin
Shannon, Kudos on your publishing success and finding your voice. What an interesting life you’ve had so far and so many talents! Thanks for sharing.
January 22, 2020 at 9:08 am
Sara A
I appreciate your honesty and the way you’ve shared your process in deciding which stories are yours to tell.
January 22, 2020 at 9:08 am
Jennifer Phillips
I appreciate this post so much and wish you much success with your career. Congratulations on your books!
January 22, 2020 at 9:09 am
Robin Brett Wechsler
I appreciate your story behind the story, and heartfelt, useful advice, Shannon. And I love your book “Can U Save the Day.” I’m excited to check out the next one!
January 22, 2020 at 9:09 am
Jane Serpa
What a great story. Thank you so much for sharing.
January 22, 2020 at 9:12 am
Polly Sena Renner
Thank you for sharing that #ownvoices means many things! Your post was very encouraging to me:)
January 22, 2020 at 9:15 am
Cathy Lentes
I always enjoy hearing a different perspective. Thanks!
January 22, 2020 at 9:15 am
Susan Drew
Great advice for coming up with more ideas for books.
January 22, 2020 at 9:16 am
lmconnors
Thank you Shanon for talking about a sticky subject. Congrats on your new book!
January 22, 2020 at 9:16 am
Anne LeBlanc Gr 4/5 teacher (@AnneLeBlanc2)
THANK YOU for this! As a white writer (and teacher) I am aware that we need diverse books but I cannot write about what I don’t know (although I try to find ways to teach about it. I was stymied! Now, I can value my experience with, and passion about the twists and turns in my life – my father’s dementia, family struggles with mental health and more! I can also show my students to value their life experience (which they often do not). As a teacher, I can see connecting this with Day 13’s post from Aya Khalil about writing with perspective. I love connections!
January 22, 2020 at 9:16 am
Krista Maxwell
Great twist on old advice. Thank you!
January 22, 2020 at 9:18 am
Lauren Barbieri
Great post—thank you. So important to own your own voice!
January 22, 2020 at 9:21 am
Sarah Tobias
Great post. Finding your own voice does take soul searching and wandering down memory lane. I never thought when I started this writing journey that it would include self-help psychotherapy. It’s amazing what changes when you open yourself up and let out who you are.
January 22, 2020 at 9:24 am
Kate Peridot
I remember watching Evelyn Glennie on TV, her focus and musicality was amazing. I look forward to reading your book. And if you’re still passionate about Aretha, you should write her anyway.
January 22, 2020 at 9:24 am
Susan Latta
We all have a perspective on life and it is so important to share it. Thanks so much for this great post!
January 22, 2020 at 9:26 am
debbiearnn
I’ve thought about what I love and what makes me different already as part of Storystorm, but…
Today I came up with a few more connections. Thanks for your post on Storystorm!
January 22, 2020 at 9:31 am
Alison Hedrick
Love reading your journey and am excited for this exercise. Thanks Shannon!
January 22, 2020 at 9:33 am
Andrea Denish
Thanks for sharing your story and insights. So inspiring! Congrats on the book 😊
January 22, 2020 at 9:35 am
Latasha Vernon
You are an extraordinary woman! Thank you for sharing your voice!
January 22, 2020 at 9:38 am
Joan Longstaff
Your post has me thinking about the stuff that matters to me – what story do I want people to feel as passionately about as I do? It’s in there somewhere, just got to tease it out. Thank you for the push.
January 22, 2020 at 9:39 am
stiefelchana
Wonderful post, Shannon! We do own our own voices & we shouldn’t hold back from getting our own stories out there! So excited to read your books—and so happy for you that you conquered your illness. Stay well!
January 22, 2020 at 9:40 am
Jay
Thank you for reminding us to look to our own passion. Great advice. Congratulations on your book, can’t wait to read it.
January 22, 2020 at 9:40 am
Katie L. Carroll
Great post!
January 22, 2020 at 9:41 am
Lori Dubbin
Thank you for showing us we can list, weave, and even google to find our voice. I look forward to reading your nonfiction picture book bio about Evelyn Glennie!
January 22, 2020 at 9:45 am
Robin Wiesneth
Great advice on ways of finding your #ownvoice
January 22, 2020 at 9:48 am
Lisa Black
Thank you!
January 22, 2020 at 9:51 am
Michele Helsel
Great advice! Looking forward to your PB bio.
January 22, 2020 at 9:55 am
Jocelyn Rish
I didn’t know about Evelyn Glennie, so I’m excited to learn more about her now.
January 22, 2020 at 9:57 am
Jessica Potts
This was a very inspiring article! Thank you!
January 22, 2020 at 9:58 am
Anita Banks
Congrats to your successes.
January 22, 2020 at 10:00 am
Alice Fulgione
Thank you for this article! It made perfect sense to me to infuse my passions into my writing. That to me truly is #ownvoice.
January 22, 2020 at 10:01 am
Mark Bentz
Thank you Shannon for posting. Great to read about the process. Congrats on your upcoming books!
January 22, 2020 at 10:02 am
Jessica Coupé
Inspiring story, and great idea thanks!
January 22, 2020 at 10:02 am
Terrie Hellard-Brown
Awesome advice! Really started me thinking in some new directions. Thank you!
January 22, 2020 at 10:05 am
Carole Calladine
Thank you, Shannon! Write what you know and what you are passionate about. Strong words of advice. I will look for your books, Can U Save The Day and Listen.
January 22, 2020 at 10:05 am
Kim Erickson
I got an idea before I even finished reading the post!
January 22, 2020 at 10:08 am
Deb Buschman (@DebBuschman)
Thanks Shannon. Congrats and I will start today digging into my passions and things that sing to me.
January 22, 2020 at 10:09 am
Linda Schueler
Cool exercise! Thank you.
January 22, 2020 at 10:11 am
Karen Lawler
I love to write lists BUT I had never thought to write one about myself and my interests. THANK YOU 11 🙂
January 22, 2020 at 10:12 am
donnacangelosi
Such an inspiring post, Shannon! It’s important to own what we know and use it in our writing. Looking forward to reading your books.
January 22, 2020 at 10:12 am
Sally Lotz
Thanks Shannon – wonderful advice.
January 22, 2020 at 10:12 am
Sarah SarahH
Love it! Thanks for helping us remember that all passions are relevant
January 22, 2020 at 10:14 am
David McMullin
Thank you, Shannon. We are all unique.
January 22, 2020 at 10:18 am
Deb Sullivan
Shannon – Excellent tips! Great perspective on diversity and what it truly means to you..thanks for sharing!
January 22, 2020 at 10:22 am
me
Sensible and spot-on! So generous! Thank you.
January 22, 2020 at 10:23 am
Virginia E Neil
Shannon, Thanks for sharing this. As always, I love reading what you have to say about writing, because you are such an advocate for all of us. Thanks for the energy you give lifting us up.
January 22, 2020 at 10:24 am
Tara Hannon
Awesome Post. Thank you, Shannon
January 22, 2020 at 10:26 am
thewriterspath
As someone who revered Aretha Franklin growing up as a little girl, as a young teen (and I am a musician, too,) for me, her memory is sacrosanct I cherished her memory and still mourn her death, and I write essays about her, from the place of the little girl who worshiped her
But when I think of Own Voices–I think of culturally sensitivity and radical inclusion, versus entitlement and status quo. I have witnessed and seen on social media the latitude or license attributed to OV, and that deserves a deeper discussion.
And this is why, it troubles me to see Aretha Franklin’s image lampooned–the fact she wore wigs, made mockery. When Aretha Franklin died, I was shocked to see many of that type of “funny” along with Urethra jokes pop up, I just did not think I’d see it here.
Maybe it’s not always funny. Maybe that’s why Own Voices is so important to me, as a black woman. And maybe this comment can help some of us, give a second or third thought to the culture of using memes of black people as “humor.” Own Voices is not just about ownership of writing voice–it extends to a broader consciousnesses and choosing memes of people of color perpetuate the very reason OV needs to exist
I can grasp what Cheryl Klein tried to say, even when there’s never absolutes in writing.
I am glad you were able to find your own stories, and wish you great success.
Kathy Z.Price
January 22, 2020 at 10:26 am
Janice Woods
Really inspiring! Thanks so much for sharing.
January 22, 2020 at 10:26 am
KASteed
Thank you for writing about the need for diversity and your “OwnVoice” movement. Great post! Starting my list….
January 22, 2020 at 10:27 am
leahpsmoser
This is very helpful advice. Thank you for sharing your experience.
January 22, 2020 at 10:27 am
Amelia Gossman
Wonderful post reminding caring people how to be inclusive without taking over someone else’s voice and story – thank you!
January 22, 2020 at 10:29 am
Charlotte Offsay
Such important advice and I love the reminder to mine what is most important to us and stands out in our own lives. Thank you!
January 22, 2020 at 10:29 am
Mrs. Vandivier
Thank you for writing this. I enjoyed it immensely and will try to write what I am passionate about regularly as it is just good practice for daily living.
January 22, 2020 at 10:30 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
So glad you shared this Sharon! Can’t wait to learn about Evelyn Glennie.
January 22, 2020 at 10:37 am
Rona Shirdan
Well thought out post. Thanks for sharing!
January 22, 2020 at 10:40 am
Mary Worley
Thanks for the advice on finding our own voice. It’s a surprisingly hard thing to do.
January 22, 2020 at 10:40 am
beckylevine
Thank you! You’ve nudged me into looking more deeply at something I’ve been edging toward.
January 22, 2020 at 10:42 am
Candace Spizzirri
What an inspiring post! Thank you, Shannon!
January 22, 2020 at 10:42 am
jbbower
Thanks for the inspiring post Shannon! Finding my own voice is going to be hard; but I am going to work on making a list; a list about me!
January 22, 2020 at 10:43 am
BRUCE BENSON
A good example that everyone has their own story. Everyone is different. You have many stories in you that are different from your experience. They are interesting. Write those.
January 22, 2020 at 10:47 am
gattodesign
Thank you!
January 22, 2020 at 10:48 am
authorlaurablog
Thanks for sharing, Shannon! I remember when you told me about this story (just before it sold) but I never thought of this as #ownvoice for you. 🤗🤗
January 22, 2020 at 10:49 am
Rebecca E. Hirsch
Thank you, Shannon, for sharing your journey and insights.
January 22, 2020 at 10:50 am
Joel Chalmers
Thanks Shannon!
Really digging into ourselves is a great idea for driving passionate idea onto the page. I have created a list of childhood memories, but I will take it a step further and recreate what makes me me. Best of luck with your writing!
January 22, 2020 at 10:51 am
Laurie
Absolutely love love love this advice!
January 22, 2020 at 10:52 am
Heather Stigall
Thanks for the suggestions of how to generate ideas for writing what we know!
January 22, 2020 at 10:52 am
Kara Newhouse
Own your voice – an empowering call.
January 22, 2020 at 10:53 am
aliciaminor
I am interested to read about Can U save the day. It takes a voice to find a great story. Thanks and I wish you more success.
January 22, 2020 at 10:53 am
Hélène Sabourin
So true
January 22, 2020 at 10:55 am
Kate Woodle
This is a very interesting and provocative topic. I’d love to hear more about it.
Wish I’d thought to make a personal list myself.
January 22, 2020 at 10:56 am
Eileen Mayo
What a great suggestion for finding my own voice story! Thanks for the great post. Can’t wait to read your books.
January 22, 2020 at 11:00 am
KRISTINA COOPER CASTILLO
This was great! Thanks, Shannon.
January 22, 2020 at 11:03 am
Jessica Kulekjian
Thank you, Shannon! You have such an inspiring journey! I’m so thankful the world has your books in it and I can’t wait to read them!
January 22, 2020 at 11:03 am
Pat Stocker
Love, love, love this article! You inspire me Shannon😘 You share beautifully from your soul❤️
January 22, 2020 at 11:03 am
Arlene Schenker
#Own voices to Own Your Voice! This makes so much sense, but I’d never thought of it that way. I just wrote down 5 things I’m passionate about.
Thank you so much, Sharon!!
January 22, 2020 at 11:05 am
Aimee
Totally inspiring!!! Thank you☺️
January 22, 2020 at 11:08 am
Brittanny Handiboe
I need to do this exercise today. It’s so easy to get into a way of thinking that tells you you have nothing else to offer the world. Your experiences, memories, personality, image, all of that can’t bring fourth something new for someone else. It gets depressing! So I’ll write down my experiences today. Thank you Shannon.
January 22, 2020 at 11:13 am
mommamoocow
Love your advice. Very inspirational.
January 22, 2020 at 11:13 am
rachelleburk
It’s always great to write what you know. Shannon’s experience prove how well that works. However, it still concerns me that telling authors NOT to write about something borders on censorship. (Can I not do a good job writing about the Salem witch trials because I am not a Wiccan?) Like Shannon, I am passionate about certain stories that happen to be about people of color, and it’s frustrating to be told I am not allowed to write them because of my race. I still believe that a story should be judged on its merits and not the author’s identity.
January 22, 2020 at 11:16 am
Joan Swanson
I loved this post. Thank you, and I’m glad to hear you are in remission!
January 22, 2020 at 11:17 am
cantsing1
Now I believe old hashtag here has a voice ; ) Love hearing how you discovered the one for your forthcoming book. Many thanks!
January 22, 2020 at 11:17 am
Krista Harrington
Hey Shannon!
What a fantastic article! It really gave me a lot to think about. The lists of “Me” are running through my mind now.
I can’t wait to hold your NF picture book about Evelyn in my hands!
I’ll just say one more thing and then be done…Go Cards:)
January 22, 2020 at 11:20 am
carmelamccainsimmons
Thank you, Shannon, for opening up the #OwnVoices horizon for me. Just reading this sparked several ideas for me. Congratulations on all your successes in publishing and in life.
January 22, 2020 at 11:22 am
cynthiahm
This is such great advice, Shannon. Thank you for helping us better understand #OwnVoices and how each of us can contribute something from our unique perspectives. I think I’ve had an ‘aha’ moment!
January 22, 2020 at 11:24 am
Chang H
“If you write from a place of passion, your reader will know. They will feel it.” — I love this! Thanks so much for sharing, and congratulations on your success!
January 22, 2020 at 11:26 am
Bev Baird
Thanks so much for this advice Shannon. We all have a story to tell – that needs to be heard. Can’t wait to read your books.
January 22, 2020 at 11:28 am
Elizabeth Curry
Thank you Shannon! I so appreciate your transparency and the tips to help us find our own voice for things we are passionate about. Congratulations on your success & thanks Tara! 🙂
January 22, 2020 at 11:29 am
Kim Larson
Great exercise, Shannon! Thanks for the idea.
January 22, 2020 at 11:31 am
sareenmclay
Thank you, I like the way you turned what was a disappointment to you into a success. Congratulations! I’m going to have to read this post a couple of times – with a pen and paper as you suggest!
January 22, 2020 at 11:32 am
Sarah Skolfield
Very interesting and helpful post. Food for thought, too. I need to start making some lists.
January 22, 2020 at 11:34 am
Heather Rowley
Wow, thanks for sharing!
January 22, 2020 at 11:35 am
LenoraBiemans (@BiemansLenora)
I love how you dug deep to write the story only you could write.
January 22, 2020 at 11:37 am
judyrubin13
Thank you, Shannon, for the fascinating look at your writing process. Your suggestions are a real inspiration.
January 22, 2020 at 11:37 am
Becky Ross Michael
Thanks for the thought-provoking article!
January 22, 2020 at 11:38 am
Karan Greene
Great post! Wonderful perspective of #OwnVoices! Thank you!
January 22, 2020 at 11:39 am
dedradavis03
This is powerful. I’ve written two stories (my two favorite ) that are written from the heart. My heart. They both have a character who is disabled. I am not disabled (although I have Psoriatic Arthritis). I struggled with writing these because I am not disabled, but I want children who are to see themselves in my stories.
January 22, 2020 at 11:43 am
Lisa Billa
Thanks, great suggestions! I keep finding pieces of ME in characters I write, even when I don’t consciously set to do this- brainstorming passions makes sense. Congratulations on your successes- I look forward to reading your next book!
January 22, 2020 at 11:44 am
laurimacey
Thank you, thank you, thank you! I’ve been struggling with what I can bring to the world of children’s books as yet another white woman in the mix. I so appreciate this inspiration and the idea that we have something to contribute…no matter who we are…because we are all unique.
January 22, 2020 at 11:45 am
Heidi M. Rogers (@heidimrogers)
I love this practical advice for finding more ideas and your voice. Thank you so much!
January 22, 2020 at 11:48 am
danielledufayet
Great post! Our “voice” is truly what matters to us -thanks for the reminder and congrats! 🙂
January 22, 2020 at 11:48 am
mona861
This is a great exercise, Shannon. I have found a few people of different cultures that I think need their stories told. My heart seems to go into their soul, whether it’s my place or not to write about them. I’m fortunate that I have sensitivity readers, my critique partners, who are supportive and generous enough to help me dig into places I didn’t know about.
January 22, 2020 at 11:52 am
Alicia
Inspirational! thank you for sharing.
January 22, 2020 at 11:53 am
Rebekah Lowell
My MG verse novel, The Road to After, (Nancy Paulsen/2022) is about domestic abuse and was born from personal experience. It helps the authenticity of the story when we know how to write that perspective. Thank you for sharing your thoughts on #OwnVoices.
January 22, 2020 at 11:54 am
Lori Alexander
Congrats on LISTEN. Thanks for sharing the story behind the story.
January 22, 2020 at 11:57 am
Darcee Freier
Thanks for the timely blog. I’ll write my list and see what else I can come up with.
January 22, 2020 at 11:57 am
BARBARA SENENMAN
Very Inspirational! You’ve got me thinking!
January 22, 2020 at 11:57 am
Marty Bellis
Helpful suggestions for finding what we can write best. Thanks, Shannon.
January 22, 2020 at 11:58 am
matthewlasley
Working in one of the most diverse school districts in the nation, I am always excited when I find a good book depicting the culture of one of my children. I believe however, that there is a flaw in the diversity argument here.
As an author, rarely do I depict my characters with any race. That is done on the publisher/illustrator end of things. In all the manuscripts I have critiqued over the years, only once can I remember somewhat writing in the character was white (and that story was about diversity).
If we are basing diversity off of how a child looks in a book, then that argument lies at the doors of publishers and editors…who ironically I might add, are the ones that tell us they want more diversity in books. Most of the books that depict kids as white are done so because the author is white. Ezra Jack Keats put Peter in A Snowy Day. The kid could have been any color, but it was a choice to make him of color.
I also disagree that you can’t write about someone of another color (I refuse the term race because that delineates there is a difference) if I’m passionate about the topic they represent. I do agree that I can’t tell the story in their voice, but I can in my own through my passion.
If that were the case, then I can’t write about Benjamin Franklin because I have never experienced a revolution or worn pantaloons or traveled by ship across the Atlantic. Because of the age he lived, he thought of the world differently in a way that I can never understand.
I can write about him, I just can not write as him.
Does Jon Klassen know what it is like to be a bear, or better yet a bear that lost a hat?
If you want to be successful, write about what you know and are passionate about, that is where you will find the most success. Write from experience, research and knowledge. Never assume to know or speak for someone that you can’t. It is YOUR voice that is important.
January 22, 2020 at 12:06 pm
Susie Sawyer
Matthew, you just said exactly what I’ve tried/wanted to say for soooo long, but couldn’t find a way to present it so well. Thank you!
January 22, 2020 at 1:30 pm
matthewlasley
It will not make some people happy. It just bothers me that people are told they can’t tell a story
January 22, 2020 at 3:52 pm
rachelleburk
I have to agree. #ownvoices is indeed incredibly important, as are diverse books in general. But telling anyone they are the wrong race, religion, nationality, or “ability” to write a story seems to be a step backward, not forward.
January 23, 2020 at 1:53 pm
Prairie Garden Girl
Matthew:
Thank you for sharing your thoughts and perspective. Everything you stated resonates with me. I agree with your comments.
It is about passion. It is about celebrating diversity through stories that depict faces from around the globe.
Most often, I feel I’ve been dismissed, even felt discrimitated against because of who I am based on the color of my skin. I’m not *eligible* or don’t meet the requirements to participate in a writing event/workshop designed for people of color only. I am discouraged to submit a manscript I researched, experienced, and wrote with passion about an individual[s] who is/are not the *same skin color* as me.
That’s so superficial. Is this reverse discrimination?
#ownvoices encourages stories about diversity. Yet, there is a requirement: The writer must be of the same ethnic background.
As an educator of diverse English Language Learners, I will continue to write about my passions and stories that celebrate diversity.
My voice is important too.
Suzy
January 23, 2020 at 2:05 pm
matthewlasley
Pursue it. #ownvoices is not the same as a diversity. It encourages people of underrepresented voices to tell their story. Like many things, it gets highjacked or generalized.
Reverse discrimination is a gray area and I tend to say this movement is not. It is misguided and marginalizes voices simply to appease a group that isn’t stepping up to tell their own stories
January 22, 2020 at 12:03 pm
Susie Sawyer
Hey Shannon! Excellent post (not surprised). I LOVE LOVE LOVE this: “#OwnVoices isn’t just about racial diversity.” Your post speaks to me so strongly, because I’ve struggled with wanting to write stories that are often viewed as “better to be written by someone else”. I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again – you’re a superwoman, and you deserve all the blessings coming your way. Congratulations on all your success – I wish you much happiness. ❤
January 22, 2020 at 12:05 pm
Leslie Leibhardt Goodman - Writer
I’m making my list, checking it twice. What a great idea to find my way into a story I’ll be passionate about writing. Thanks!
January 22, 2020 at 12:06 pm
rimna
A very inspiring post, Shannon. I’m off to put together my list!
January 22, 2020 at 12:07 pm
Sherry Smith
Hi Shannon,
As someone who once lived in Louisville, KY (U of L Kent School), there are also a lot of stories to mine in KY. So glad you found Evelyn Glennie and turned her story into a PB. Good luck with the book launch.
January 22, 2020 at 12:07 pm
kyavorski
I love the suggestion to dig deeper to find a way to identify with the type of character you want to write about. I agree that passion comes through in your writing and only makes it better.
January 22, 2020 at 12:09 pm
Susan Macartney
Starting with an understanding of and passion for what you know and love – truly an essential tool on this writing journey!
January 22, 2020 at 12:12 pm
Shirley fadden
Thank you for sharing your introspection, and for giving us perspective, and tools. Plus, you unlocked a memory for me. I used to hire a piano player to entertain elderly people at my first “real” job, and he was blind. Can’t wait to read LISTEN, congrats!
January 22, 2020 at 12:15 pm
Angie
Excellent suggestions! I often feel so normal. Nothing exciting about me. But I’m going to write my list and see what I can find. Thank you! And congratulations!
January 22, 2020 at 12:23 pm
Maryna Doughty
Shannon, this was such an encouraging post. Thank you for showing us how to find our own voice.
January 22, 2020 at 12:24 pm
Cheryl Johnson
‘It’s about owning your voice.’ So true. I love the graphics ~ haven’t seen those before.
January 22, 2020 at 12:24 pm
Corlie Aldrich
What a terrific post! Congratulations on all your achievements!
January 22, 2020 at 12:29 pm
Dawn M.
Own your voice! Great post.
January 22, 2020 at 12:30 pm
westindianmommy
Wow. Such a timely post and great reminder that everyone has their own voice and own stories and if we reflect, it doesn’t take much to find it. As an underrepresented writer, this means so much. Thank you, thank you.
January 22, 2020 at 12:30 pm
Daryl Gottier
Thanks so much for pointing out ways to pinpoint “what we know”.
January 22, 2020 at 12:36 pm
Hollie Wolverton
What a great idea to make a list of what makes you “you”!
January 22, 2020 at 12:40 pm
Kaylynn Johnsen
Thank you, that really helped.
January 22, 2020 at 12:42 pm
Pamela Harrison
I love this! Thank you so much for making it possible to view “own voices” in a new way! I’m so happy you are in remission. That must be amazing. I know what it is like to battle illness.
January 22, 2020 at 12:45 pm
Suwin Chan
Excellent post! Thank you for your great examples of how to approach difficult topics. And for reminding us that there’s more that to be done so that all our voices can be seen and heard. Bravo!
January 22, 2020 at 12:45 pm
Riya
Aha! A new list. I love lists. *Typing feverishly*
Thank you so much for the inspiration, Shannon.
January 22, 2020 at 12:45 pm
ptnozell
Thank you, Shannon, for sharing the idea to list my own unique qualities & passions & to write from these perspectives. Thinking back to my favorite manuscripts, I realize that the qualities & passions that first come to mind infuse these stories. Great post!
January 22, 2020 at 12:46 pm
Karen Greenwald
Shannon, thanks for your post and suggestions!
January 22, 2020 at 12:47 pm
Glenda Roberson
Oh my gosh! You just gave me the idea for my next picture book. I’d already written about it and got an honorable mention in Vivian Kirkfield’s 50 precious word contest. Now to come up with 300-400 more words that make it a complete story. Thank you!
January 22, 2020 at 12:49 pm
Peggy Dobbs
What great advice—to find out what makes me ME! Thank you!
January 22, 2020 at 12:50 pm
Elia Ben-Ari
Thank you, Shannon! Your post inspired a new story idea!
January 22, 2020 at 12:51 pm
Sheri Radovich
Thank you, I once wanted to write about a Native American tribe of which I was not a member but felt their discomfort in a setting. But my new big idea is more noticeable at an older age than 4-8 year old text. So unless I write for a periodical I cannot tell the story without writing a middle grade book. How did you tell your story when it happened as an adult to a Pb audience or did you write it only for a chicken soup audience?
January 22, 2020 at 12:59 pm
Johnell DeWitt
Thank you for sharing your story, and congrats on our successes.
January 22, 2020 at 1:00 pm
Melissa Richardson
Great post! The thing that gets me is that of the 23% no longer attributed to white characters, over HALF of that percentage (14.5%, approx. 2/3) became anthropomorphic animals or objects. Like, what population of dump trucks or teddy bears needs better literary representation? Compare that to the 0.1% increase for Native American children, and the need for #ownvoices is thrown into high relief. Thank you for your post!
January 22, 2020 at 1:02 pm
Amy Bradshaw
Great advice for figuring out what your own voice is. Thanks for your great words of advice.
January 22, 2020 at 1:02 pm
Susan Johnston Taylor
Thanks for the tips, Shannon!
January 22, 2020 at 1:07 pm
Meredith Fraser
Thank you for the great advice. As a Native American, my latest WIP PB is about the lessons my grandmother taught me during the summers I spent with her.
January 22, 2020 at 1:07 pm
Cathy C. Hall
Love your take on #OwnVoices; it’s not limiting. In fact, it’s kinda limitless now.
January 22, 2020 at 1:07 pm
clairebobrow
A lot of food for thought in this post. Congrats on your Evelyn Glennie book – I look forward to reading it.
January 22, 2020 at 1:10 pm
Judith Snyder
Your story resonates with me. I’ll look inward and see what I can find.
January 22, 2020 at 1:14 pm
wyszguy
So inspiring! Thank you!
January 22, 2020 at 1:16 pm
Anne Bromley
Your post is just what I needed to get started on a new manuscript. For me, the best place to begin is within. Thank you and many, many congratulations on your Evelyn Glennie book!
January 22, 2020 at 1:22 pm
Carol Gwin Nelson
Your brainstorming idea is great. I like the way it would show connections between several different passions. Thanks for a great post!
January 22, 2020 at 1:26 pm
donnamorkreed
I love the idea of finding the parts of me that are important to me. I never thing there is that much interesting about me, but if I dig deep enough, I’ll find lots of characteristics I can work with. Thanks.
January 22, 2020 at 1:31 pm
Debbie Lodato
Wow! Such a great exercise today Shannon. Love this idea. Apparently I have a lot of interests and things I’m passionate about. Can’t wait to read your books.
January 22, 2020 at 1:33 pm
belindambrock
This was a great post—-helpful and inspiring! Good luck with your books! I recently read can u save the day—-so clever and timely.
January 22, 2020 at 1:33 pm
LeeAnn Rizzuti
We hear it all the time from agents and editors: voice is a key element they are looking for when reading submissions. Thanks for reminding us to find those things that make our voice sing. That make our voice our own.
January 22, 2020 at 1:34 pm
tiffanydickinson
Thank you, Shannon. I appreciate your passion. I hope you can write SOMETHING about Aretha Franklin someday. What a woman.
January 22, 2020 at 1:40 pm
Linda KulpTrout
The graphics are wonderful. Thank you for your take on ownvoices!
January 22, 2020 at 1:43 pm
nrompella
Great idea to take the time to figure out what makes me unique. Thanks!
January 22, 2020 at 1:44 pm
debobrienbookscom
I had the same thing happen to me, Shannon. I was trying to write a diverse story featuring Asians. When one Asian writer read my ms, she nicely but firmly explained to me why I should not continue down that road. Not only can I not identify with another culture, but if published, I would be taking the spot that could be filled by a minority.
January 22, 2020 at 1:44 pm
kaleegwarjanski
Thank you for the step by step on how to find my own voice!
January 22, 2020 at 1:50 pm
rgstones
Love this, and the suggestion to list passions, hobbies, interests, differences, and infusing that passion into my writing. Great post!
January 22, 2020 at 1:51 pm
setwiggs
Shannon,
i love your story and how you looked at what voice you have to share and are passionate about. I hope i win your critique.
Sue
January 22, 2020 at 1:53 pm
Cathy Ogren
Fabulous post, Shannon! Thank you for sharing your story and your writing tips.
January 22, 2020 at 1:56 pm
Daniele Arndt
Wow! So good! I’m excited about today’s post! Thanks, Shannon!
January 22, 2020 at 2:01 pm
Keila Dawson
I will definitely dive into this process. What an organized way to find ideas that used your very own voice. Great post. Thanks!
January 22, 2020 at 2:03 pm
kathrynjeanhagen
Thank you, Shannon, for the inspiration to look into ourselves–our passions, our experiences, our challenges–to find the kernel of a story. Congratulations on your new book!
January 22, 2020 at 2:13 pm
Cortney Benvenuto
Wow! Incredible story and congrats on your success! I’m feeling super inspired! Thank you!
January 22, 2020 at 2:17 pm
Susan Cabael
I appreciate the way you took Cheryl’s advice and made #ownvoices work for you.
January 22, 2020 at 2:22 pm
Debra Daugherty
Shannon, you offered great advice in this post. Thank you for sharing your writing journey.
January 22, 2020 at 2:22 pm
Melissa Mwai
Wow, I love the idea about actively documenting what you are passionate about, what makes you special along with ideas. Great tip!
January 22, 2020 at 2:26 pm
Jennifer Weisse
I found your post very inspiring, thank you! And your advice is very helpful in moving along an idea I have!
January 22, 2020 at 2:27 pm
Melanie Ellsworth
Thanks, Shannon, for addressing this topic and sharing your experience about what worked and what didn’t for you.
January 22, 2020 at 2:28 pm
Elizabeth Brown
Thanks so much for your inspiring post!
January 22, 2020 at 2:31 pm
jenniemacdonald
Shannon, thank you for this compelling and thought-provoking piece. One thing you made me think about is responding creatively to identity-forming moments that may not technically last for all of one’s life (like your experience of seeing the world from a wheelchair perspective) but that indelibly impact one’s life story and capacity for empathy.
January 22, 2020 at 2:33 pm
Rebecca Thill (@rkthill)
Great inspiration! Thank you!
January 22, 2020 at 2:41 pm
Lisa Tolin (@lisatolin)
Great advice about mining our own lives and interests. Thank you!
January 22, 2020 at 2:53 pm
Colleen Owen Murphy
Thank you Shannon for helping us to see that #OwnVoices is more than about race. I love that you found a person to whom you could relate and wrote about her, after you were discouraged about pursuing your original project.
I do hope you stay in remission as well.
January 22, 2020 at 2:57 pm
Kim Wilson
What a fun prompt! I’m already writing things down! Thank you for sharing this!
January 22, 2020 at 2:58 pm
Liz Steinglass
Thanks. I think this is a really helpful way to think about it.
January 22, 2020 at 3:01 pm
grahamslc
Thanks, Shannon, for sharing your experience and what came from it.
January 22, 2020 at 3:05 pm
saintamovin
Thank you for the wonderful ideas
January 22, 2020 at 3:15 pm
Thelia Hutchinson
Outstanding. God bless. Your words are truly inspiring and got thinking. I have stories to tell. Now I know, no matter, what I have a coice.
Thank you
January 22, 2020 at 3:18 pm
Virginia Rinkel
This has inspired me to write all these things down, and proceed with conviction. Thank you.
January 22, 2020 at 3:21 pm
Brandy Lynne
Very interesting idea. Love the challenge.
January 22, 2020 at 3:28 pm
sjwmeade
Thank you for this thoughtful and helpful post!
January 22, 2020 at 3:28 pm
Jennifer Linville
I feel like we needed this article on Day 1 😀. I similarly tried writing a diversity piece from the perspective of a background other than my own. (I used to work with ESL students & felt compelled to write “their” story). Kind of got some passive aggressive backlash from an agent after that. I’m 24 ideas into Story Storm, but I will dig up some passions to add to the list!
January 22, 2020 at 3:38 pm
kate Carroll
Thanks for opening I have a story that reflects my experience with our African daughter, but it is not my story, so it’s tricky! I also believe we are all HUMAN first, and that is a basic truth to which we all enjoin!
January 22, 2020 at 3:54 pm
ruthwilson48
Thank you for these tips, Shannon!
January 22, 2020 at 4:02 pm
Lane Arnold
Insightful article! Thank you!
January 22, 2020 at 4:08 pm
Heather Gallagher
Shannon, what a fabulous read! I love how you found your subject. Wishing you every success ❤️
January 22, 2020 at 4:12 pm
Mary Zychowicz
What great insight! I don’t even know where to begin commenting. So many things you said just touched me; especially your own story. You have much inside you yet to tell! Congratulations and best wishes for your future.
January 22, 2020 at 4:13 pm
susanzonca
Thanks for the encouragement to jot down things that make me unique! Part of my challenge? Writers always write outside of their own experience, so being aware of boundaries is so important.
January 22, 2020 at 4:27 pm
Janet Smart
Thanks for your the post. Now I’ve got some thinking and writing to do using your advice.
January 22, 2020 at 4:28 pm
chardixon47
Thank you, Shannon, for this post and list of questions to ask ourselves. I am now working on those questions. I’m discovering that my voice is pinging back at me.
January 22, 2020 at 4:28 pm
8catpaws
Your post confirms advice I heard that you should only write about a subject if you share its cultural background to assure authenticity. But maybe the pendulum will swing back and you can write about anything or anyone that intrigues you. Sharing a cultural background does not necessarily ensure empathy, authenticity or good writing.
January 22, 2020 at 4:37 pm
Laurel Ranveig Abell
What a great story of how you conceived a PB idea!!! Thanks for sharing!
January 22, 2020 at 4:48 pm
kirstenbockblog
How inspiring! Thank you so much for sharing your journey with us.
January 22, 2020 at 4:51 pm
Angela H. Dale
Thank you – knowing the passions that drive us, and channeling them into stories, is so important.
January 22, 2020 at 4:59 pm
Jacqueline Adams
I love that you didn’t allow your idea to hit a dead end, but you turned things around and found another path. And I’m really looking forward to reading your book about Evelyn Glennie when it comes out! I had never heard of her, but she sounds fascinating.
January 22, 2020 at 5:03 pm
Denise Engle
Shannon! Thank you! An idea just flew out of my brain! Oh wow!
January 22, 2020 at 5:10 pm
Poupette Smith
Great post and list suggestion! Thank you. Gaelynn Lea is a remarkable handicapped musician too, and for passionate Storystorm musicians, NPR’s tiny desk contest and concerts might prompt ideas…
January 22, 2020 at 5:14 pm
shirley301
Thanks for recommending that we be passionate about our subject. That is certainly a key to publicaiton.
January 22, 2020 at 5:15 pm
writeknit
A Maz Ing post!!! Now I’m all fired up!!! As you can see !!!! are one of my faults and passions 🙂
Thank you so much for sharing your words of wisdom.
January 22, 2020 at 5:53 pm
Paula B Puckett
More than enough food for thought. Thanks for sharing, Shannon.
January 22, 2020 at 6:00 pm
Debra Kempf Shumaker
Wow. Love this post! Thank you for wise words!!!!
January 22, 2020 at 6:07 pm
sara fajardo
Thank you.
January 22, 2020 at 6:09 pm
Catherine Morgans
Great post Shannon and reminder to repeat the questions, What makes you You? and What am I good at and passionate about?
I’ve done this many times but often find something new comes to mind that I hadn’t previously thought of or remembered.
January 22, 2020 at 6:10 pm
Kellie
Wow! This is such a powerful post – and something that totally resonates with me. I write about aspergers because my son (and I expect myself) has aspergers … I know that voice, from all angles. Thank you so much for sharing this, sharing your process and helping me feel justified in what I’m trying to do.
January 22, 2020 at 6:14 pm
Kassy Keppol
Ummmm. I am not against it, but you are still writing about another culture. The deaf culture.
January 22, 2020 at 6:14 pm
JillDanaBooks
Thank you for this great advice! 🙂
January 22, 2020 at 6:16 pm
Manju B. Howard (@ManjuBeth)
Hi, Shannon! Terrific post! Your musical voice shines through your words in LISTEN. 💗 Keep shining!
January 22, 2020 at 6:18 pm
Janet Frenck Sheets
Thanks — and I enjoy your InHERviews.
January 22, 2020 at 6:33 pm
Juliann Caveny
Shannon, this is an AMAZING post! Thanks for sharing with us. (I downloaded this exact graphic yesterday to use in a presentation with my critique group.) I feel the same way about a story that’s been stewing in the back of my mind for years. This gives me a new way to think about it. Thank you so much.
January 22, 2020 at 6:34 pm
Suzanne Alexander
Thank you, Shannon, for this good advice.
January 22, 2020 at 6:42 pm
Sue Reichard
I really appreciate your article on this topic! I too, have so many wonderful African Americans that I would like to write about. Alas, I am white. I do understand this topic a bit more. However, can we not write about a man if we are female? Tell me what is the difference? Rhetorical, of course.
January 22, 2020 at 6:56 pm
Jill Friestad-Tate
Good reminder to write what we know! Thanks!
January 22, 2020 at 6:59 pm
bluerabbit
Writing from passion is great advice.
January 22, 2020 at 6:59 pm
Dee Leone
Great advice about owning your own voice no matter what!
January 22, 2020 at 7:01 pm
Melissa Stoller
Fantastic post, Shannon! Own your voice! You certainly do! Can’t wait for your new book! xox
January 22, 2020 at 7:06 pm
Naana
Thanks Shannon for all the ideas to own one’s voice.
January 22, 2020 at 7:19 pm
Kathleen McRae
I love this – so very informative and encouraging. Thank you. Off to list my own experiences.
Kate
January 22, 2020 at 7:19 pm
Franny G
I was hypnotised by the GIFs! Thanks, I have been inspired to write a story that only I can tell.
January 22, 2020 at 7:29 pm
steveheron
Great article. It is acceptable to write in my own ‘voices’? Is it okay to have more than one voice? Is it okay to write for people who don’t have a voice? When writing for children are we writing the voice of the child inside?
January 22, 2020 at 7:32 pm
jacquesartandbooks
Shannon,
I for one would love you to write the book about Aretha Franklin. As you say in your post she has been your passion since you were a little girl. You can approach it sideways to the #own voice movement. Write it from the perspective of a little white girl inspired by a black woman. My hero is Albert Einstein (mainly because I admire his hair) we all have heroes and your story would be relatable to many children of many cultures.
January 22, 2020 at 7:35 pm
Carrie Tillotson
Shannon, you’ve got my wheels turning about what makes me, Me. Thanks for the inspiration.
January 22, 2020 at 7:44 pm
whitcoma
What great, inspirational advice! Thank you for sharing yourself and your voice!
January 22, 2020 at 7:46 pm
Lori Mozdzierz
Good food for thought. My wheels are turning. Thank you!
January 22, 2020 at 7:49 pm
Sara Trofa
Thank you so much, Shannon! That’s a great post!
January 22, 2020 at 8:06 pm
ingridboydston
This is encouraging! Thank you Shannon! Best wishes on your endeavors!
January 22, 2020 at 8:09 pm
asiqueira1307
Amazing. I am Adhd and I didn’t know until now. I can see how a story about a child who is a misfit can be my own story. Thanks.
January 22, 2020 at 8:10 pm
bookfish1
Great post for me to read at this time as i struggle with a NF PB manuscript and the notion of ownvoices. Your exercise was very helpful and opened up some ideas for me.
January 22, 2020 at 8:16 pm
Prairie Garden Girl
I believe in the importance of needing more books for kids to see themselves.
Thank you, Shannon.
Suzy Leopold
#celebratediversity
January 22, 2020 at 8:20 pm
Linda Hofke
excellent post today. Thanks!
January 22, 2020 at 8:25 pm
Dayne Sislen, Children's Book Illustrator
Thank you for the excellent post. “OwnVoices” has always confused and hindered me.
January 22, 2020 at 8:25 pm
Rinda Beach
I just sent a story idea about wombats in Australia to a friend who lives in Australia. It should be her story.
January 22, 2020 at 8:34 pm
mrsgoodchoice
Shannon, I’m so proud of you!
January 22, 2020 at 8:47 pm
storyfairy
Hi Shannon.
Nice post.
Writing about stuff I’m passionate about isn’t usually a problem for me, but sometimes doing so, and writing in general, in my own voice is. This post should help with that. Thank you.
January 22, 2020 at 8:50 pm
Nancy Furstinger
Such an inspiring subject for your upcoming book–I can’t wait to read it!
January 22, 2020 at 8:53 pm
Alexis
Thank you for this post. I have been struggling with this topic of what I am “allowed” to write and I think you said it best. Own. Your. Voice. 💜💜💜
January 22, 2020 at 8:59 pm
Susan Eyerman
Thank you for the fine advice. Learn and own it.
January 22, 2020 at 9:01 pm
Amy Cory
Thank you, Shannon. This is such an amazing post, and really important to hear!
January 22, 2020 at 9:03 pm
Susan
Thank you! #OwnVoices is giving me a completely different perspective,
January 22, 2020 at 9:04 pm
Kathy Sholtys
Great advice and thought-provoking!
January 22, 2020 at 9:05 pm
angiecal76
I’m about to list my passions and interests and hopefully, they will spark some great idea for a book! Thanks for the great tips, Shannon.
I say you should still write that Aretha book. Editor Kandace Coston, from Lee and Low, has published books by white authors who wrote passionately about people of color. Their research was extensive and they had tremendous drive. Good luck!
January 22, 2020 at 9:07 pm
Chelle Martin
It’s a tough topic, but I think it depends on if you are writing about history which you could research. Nobody could write from another person or culture’s perspective.
January 22, 2020 at 9:16 pm
jimchaize1
This was a very inspiring post. Thanks, Shannon.
January 22, 2020 at 9:25 pm
Julie Reich
I love this idea. Thank you for the suggestion and for sharing your own story.
January 22, 2020 at 9:27 pm
Sandhya Rose
Thanks Shannon for this inspiring post!
January 22, 2020 at 9:48 pm
Juliana Lee
Thank you for a new perspective on #ownvoices. Congratulations on your new PB. RESPECT!
January 22, 2020 at 9:53 pm
Jane Heitman Healy
Thank you for this post, Shannon. It inspires me and reminds me to find the story that only I can tell.
January 22, 2020 at 9:56 pm
Natalie Lynn Tanner
SHANNON: I appreciate seeing the “write what you know” issue from your P.O.V. It TRULY got my thinking and considering some things I’ve been working on. It’s a tough topic, with many views. THANK YOU for sharing! I was ESPECIALLY INSPIRED by reading your bio at the bottom of the page. Seeing ALL you have gone through, and STILL pursuing your dream of writing, is TRULY INSPIRATIONAL!!! THANK YOU AND BEST OF LUCK!!! As someone fluent in ASL, I CAN’T WAIT to read your picture book bio!!!
January 22, 2020 at 10:05 pm
Susanne Whitehouse
I made my list! Thank you!
January 22, 2020 at 10:06 pm
denitajohnson
Thank you for the inspiration, I will write what I know.
January 22, 2020 at 10:24 pm
Louann Brown
Now off to work on my list. Thanks for your post. Nice to see we are making some progress to improve the situation.
January 22, 2020 at 10:27 pm
Susan Wroble
Fabulous post. I loved how you took the “Don’t”, honored it, and found a way to take that inspiration to find a story that you were the perfect author for. Thanks!
January 22, 2020 at 10:38 pm
Jenny Read Stout
Thanks for sharing your experience!
January 22, 2020 at 10:44 pm
Lindsey Hobson
I love the thought of writing about a passion. I’ve been in eye care for 13 years and I would really like to use my knowledge for a book, the idea just hasn’t found me yet.
January 22, 2020 at 10:44 pm
nicolesalterbraun
Thank you
January 22, 2020 at 10:47 pm
Abby Wooldridge
Thanks for a great post, Shannon! Can’t wait to read your biography on Evelyn Glennie!
January 22, 2020 at 10:53 pm
cbcole
Carol Cole – Great post – I’ll be writing my passions down daily from now on.
January 22, 2020 at 11:05 pm
katiemillsgiorgio
Thank you for sharing!
January 22, 2020 at 11:10 pm
charlestrevino
Great post and advice.
Keep the search ongoing – never give up.
Thank you Shannon!
January 22, 2020 at 11:34 pm
Maria Bostian
Terrific post! Hate you never wrote the Aretha story, but you found the perfect one for you. Getting ready to start my list!
January 22, 2020 at 11:51 pm
writersideup
Shannon, I love how you opened up the meaning of #OwnVoices because I never include myself as part of that simply because I’m white. I like your interpretation of it.
I also wanted to say that I still think you can write ABOUT Aretha. Cheryl was saying not to write from the POINT OF VIEW of someone/thing you’re not because you don’t know the VOICE. You can write ABOUT anyone, especially if you’re that passionate.
There ARE people talented enough to write from a POV of a different race, etc., but unless you are truly that knowledgeable and immersed, it won’t work
I’m a female and in my novels my MC is male. Can that work? It feels like it, and of course, plenty of authors do it…J. K. Rowling certainly did!
January 23, 2020 at 12:11 am
Deborah Foster
Thank you for the inspiration! I’m off to start my list!
January 23, 2020 at 12:21 am
Karin Larson
Terrific post and advice, thank you!
January 23, 2020 at 12:23 am
Laura W.
Thank you for the advice Shannon! Great post!
January 23, 2020 at 12:39 am
Rachel
Love the idea of listing your passions. Great post.
January 23, 2020 at 12:44 am
Rachel
Love the post.
January 23, 2020 at 12:46 am
LaurenKerstein
Thank you, my dear CP and friend for this thought-provoking post! I especially love this: “If you write from a place of passion, your reader will know.”
January 23, 2020 at 1:39 am
Garnett Natasha
That sounded like such a bummer, hearing that you should not write the Aretha Franklin book. Way to learn things and turn things and find success. Congratulations on your books!
January 23, 2020 at 2:15 am
drawingablank6
Love this post!
January 23, 2020 at 3:21 am
Marcia
Great post Diverdity is so important. I love the distinction between writing about someone be writing from someone’s POV.
January 23, 2020 at 3:30 am
Maria Marshall
Congrats Shannon on your newest book! When we have a passion for what we write, it shows through and attracts others to the writing. THanks for a great post.
January 23, 2020 at 4:05 am
Elle
This is a post I needed to read. I’m all for supporting diversity but I’m white too. Thank you for making me think outside of the box and how I can contribute
To seeing more books about diversity.
January 23, 2020 at 4:57 am
Rachel S. Hobbs Gunn
Thank you for your insight!
January 23, 2020 at 5:40 am
Liz sites
Thank you for bringing up a tough question and answering honestly and helpfully!
January 23, 2020 at 6:31 am
Margaret Flint Suter
Wow! Just huzzah! Thanks! I am not an eagle but I am passionate about watching raptors and trying to capture them in my camera lens…stories galore!
January 23, 2020 at 7:02 am
Nancy Kotkin
If you are that passionate about Aretha, you owe it to yourself, and to her, to write about her. A biography is not written from the subject’s POV anyway; it’s a third-person commentary about that person’s contribution to the world.
January 23, 2020 at 7:17 am
Phaea Crede 💀🏴☠️⚔️ (@PhaeaCrede)
Really great idea! I’m looking up famous dyslexics to start!
January 23, 2020 at 7:21 am
Freda Lewkwoicz
Thank you. I’m working on my OWN VOICES list right now.
January 23, 2020 at 7:47 am
teacherwriteracker
Great advice. Thanks!
January 23, 2020 at 7:52 am
Rebecca
Thanks for sharing your story, and great advice, Shannon!
January 23, 2020 at 8:09 am
Darlene Koppel
Very powerful post. I’m making my list now.
January 23, 2020 at 8:54 am
audiencedog
Inspiring post; I’m drawn to stories about black American in part because that’s the area of my brother’s research (he’s an anthropologist; we are both white). Appreciate your perspective on this.
January 23, 2020 at 9:33 am
Catherine
This is really interesting Shannon and a great way to look at own voices – thank you :o)
January 23, 2020 at 9:46 am
Sharon H
Good tips on how to write what you know, thank you!
January 23, 2020 at 9:50 am
Megan Whitaker
Always a good reminder. Thanks!
January 23, 2020 at 9:50 am
Kelly Vavala
Fantastic post! We know the need for diverse children’s books and I’ve jotted down a few ideas myself. Write what we know is so very important! How could we possibly know what it feels like if we’ve never experienced it! Well done. Thank you so much for sharing. Opened my eyes to #OwnVoices
January 23, 2020 at 9:54 am
Kelly Vavala
Great post! Thank you for sharing!
January 23, 2020 at 11:01 am
Jane Dippold
Thanks for your suggestion to discover what you are passionate about and bring it to your story!
January 23, 2020 at 11:25 am
Robin Currie
One of the best posts this month!
January 23, 2020 at 11:27 am
Gail Atherley
I appreciate this perspective and information. Funny that it is difficult to define your passions. It seems like it should be easier. Thank you.
January 23, 2020 at 11:28 am
colleenrkosinski
Great post!
January 23, 2020 at 11:29 am
writeremmcbride
Shannon, I thank you for your post! This is a question I had pondered as well. AND – I certainly appreciate the broadening of understanding of the #OwnVoices efforts. I understand Cheryl’s opinion, but writing ‘about’ or ‘for’ someone might bridge the gap, if the work was properly verified and endorsed. Your own story is certainly an important and inspiring one! Thank you for sharing, and congratulations to you on your amazing achievements through hard, hard work!
January 23, 2020 at 11:32 am
Jill Lambert (@LJillLambert)
Thanks for a great post, Shannon. After making the lists you suggested, I have several new ideas brewing!
January 23, 2020 at 11:37 am
suzannepoulterharris
What an inspirational story … it’s got my wheels turning! Congratulations on your book deal!
January 23, 2020 at 11:41 am
supermario6
Congratulations on your books!
January 23, 2020 at 11:46 am
DaNeil Olson
Powerful post and so inspiring! Thank you.
January 23, 2020 at 11:48 am
Aimee Larke
Thank you for this very helpful post. I have wondered about this very thing and I appreciate your reflection on the #OwnVoices. You helped me realize several ideas!
January 23, 2020 at 11:50 am
Amy Healey
Thank you! Very inspiring!
January 23, 2020 at 11:53 am
Jennifer Parker Raudenbush
Thanks for the inspirational post. Much appreciated!
January 23, 2020 at 11:54 am
mginsberg10
I will make my list! Thanks,Shannon.
January 23, 2020 at 11:58 am
saputnam
Great post, Shannon!! Thank you for sharing your step by step process for finding our own voice. I’ve heard the “write what you know” for years and years, but love your twist to “write what you’ve lived!”
“If you write from a place of passion, your reader will know. They will feel it.” – I have 4 manuscripts pulling me in that direction… 2 are completed drafts and 2 more are in the research stages.
January 23, 2020 at 12:00 pm
Brenna Becker
What a great and timely topic. Going to make my list.
January 23, 2020 at 12:08 pm
Gayle Veitenheimer
Wow! What a perspective! Thank you for sharing.
January 23, 2020 at 12:28 pm
debbiemoeller
Very inspiring. I admire your determination and resolve. Your comments were helpful. Congratulations on your books. I look forward to reading the one on Evelyn Glennie.
January 23, 2020 at 12:33 pm
Rebecca Herzog
Wonderful advice!! thank you
January 23, 2020 at 1:03 pm
marshaelyn
SHANNON…You’re an answered prayer! Teaching elementary, I struggled to find books that reflected the faces of my inner city Detroit students. I saw their disappointment in finding only WHITE characters who were well cared for. I’m white, so during these last two years beginning my writing career, I kept asking the question you asked, “How can I write from a different race’s POV?” I researched Ezra Jack Keats and how he came to write Snowy Day. I journaled notes about my teaching years in the Motor City, escaping riots on my college campus after MLK, Jr.’s assignation, and more. Was I authentic if I wrote from a different race’s perspective? Obviously, not. Your post has given me perspective about finding my own voice and believing in it.
So, I’ll revisit my completed PB based on my mother’s childhood when children taunted her about her Yugoslavian parents who spoke broken English. I’ll record and listen to my completed PB about learning to make apple strudel with my maternal Yugoslavian grandmother who muttered and never measured anything! Thanks to your post, I’ll work even harder to bring my voice to the page.
By the way, my own copy of Can U Save the Day? sits proudly on my shelf. Each time I read it, I find inspiration, motivation, and pure enjoyment. Tossing confetti for your upcoming book! Sending energy and encouragement…
January 23, 2020 at 1:21 pm
storycatcherpublishing
Over the last decade as a professional writer, I have finally discovered my own voice. No matter what era I find myself in when writing the next book in my historical fiction chapter book series, HISTORY’S MYSTERIES, there is still the voice of a southern Louisiana Cajun who grew up near the bayous coming through in each story I tell…
Great post!
Donna L Martin
Story Catcher Publishing
January 23, 2020 at 1:35 pm
Jill M Proctor
Shannon, your words really struck home. I’m off to make my list. Thank you very much!
January 23, 2020 at 2:05 pm
Carrie Williford (@carrietimes)
Fantastic! I’ve added a couple of things to my list. Aretha is one of my favorites and that GIF of her snatching her own wig is priceless.
January 23, 2020 at 2:08 pm
Laura Jean Watters
I send much of my time at work thinking about and working on diversity and equity issues as they relate to my community. I guess it is one of my passions. I’ve been aware for years that the need for more diverse voices in children’s literature is essential to improving literacy achievement in our country. I’ve also been made VERY aware that, while I am welcome as an ally, I must be sensitive to how I show up. White authors cannot presume that they can really understand black protagonists. And its been a bit of a heartache but Shannon has suggested a different perspective. I appreciate that very much.
January 23, 2020 at 2:30 pm
Lydia Lukidis
I totally relate to so many things about this post. Thanks for sharing!
January 23, 2020 at 2:32 pm
Elizabeth Saba
Thanks you Shannon. I read ‘Can U Save the Day’ with my classes last year. They loved it!
January 23, 2020 at 2:39 pm
Nicole Loos Miller
Thank you for sharing, Shannon!
January 23, 2020 at 3:16 pm
Kelly Conroy
I’m going to start my list now! Thanks!
January 23, 2020 at 3:18 pm
debbiemccue
Wonderful message! Thanks so much for sharing your experience and your perspective on diversity.
January 23, 2020 at 3:28 pm
aidantalkin
A fantastic perspective, thanks so much for adding this to the conversation.
January 23, 2020 at 3:33 pm
Sue Heavenrich
thanks for sharing your thoughts and experience. And waiting while we grabbed paper and pencil.
January 23, 2020 at 4:06 pm
Judy Sobanski
Own voice is also about “owning your voice”…I love that!
January 23, 2020 at 4:22 pm
Amy Houts
So glad you could creatively find a solution related to who you should write about. Inspiring. Thank you.
January 23, 2020 at 4:35 pm
percyandcat
It kind of makes sense to not write about another race of people unless you walked with them first hand in their daily lives and experienced what they went through. In a way, this idea pigeon-holes us also. This would stop us from writing about other things that we are interested in because we never experienced them first hand. If you are a fiction writer this would not be too much of an issue, but if you write non-fiction it would be limiting, sadly. Either way, if you feel strongly about something do the research then decide what you think is right. Good lesson. Thank you.
January 23, 2020 at 4:47 pm
June Sengpiehl
Individuality is important.Great post
January 23, 2020 at 5:12 pm
Sherri Jones Rivers
Shannon, what a great idea to answer those questions about what we are passionate about and what experiences we can bring to our work. Thanks.
January 23, 2020 at 5:20 pm
Elizabeth (@elizabethstiert)
This has to be my favorite post of StoryStorm. These scrawlings I made, may just carrying me through the rest of StoryStorm. Thank you.
January 23, 2020 at 5:21 pm
Mita Martino
Its eye opening to see how little diversity there is in picture book writing. Great goals for up-coming authors.
January 23, 2020 at 5:45 pm
Aileen Stewart
It’s always interesting to hear how each individual comes up with their story ideas. Thanks for sharing.
January 23, 2020 at 6:12 pm
Elizabeth Duncan
I have wanted to tell the stories of my minority students, but have struggled with the authenticity of my voice. This gives me something to think about…
January 23, 2020 at 6:15 pm
Joannie Duris
Shannon, thank you for sharing your journey toward writing about Evelyn Glennie. Mixing your own passions with your own experiences led to an untold story that needed telling. We all have our own unique voice to share. The key takeaway for me: find a way to weave the things you love into a story.
January 23, 2020 at 7:03 pm
Midge Ballou Smith
Thank you, Shannon!
January 23, 2020 at 7:15 pm
Shawna JC Tenney
I really love this way of thinking about #ownvoices. Thank you so much!
January 23, 2020 at 7:19 pm
carolmunrojww
I mentally retreat with I hear or see #ownvoices because I’ve always assumed it doesn’t apply to me, but thanks for helping me see this hashtag from a different POV.
Now…off to read about U. Really. The book is right here next to me. 🙂
January 23, 2020 at 9:02 pm
Sylvia Mary Grech
Shannon, thanks for your post!
January 23, 2020 at 9:27 pm
Teresa Robeson
Girlfriend, that is just brilliant, but then I already knew you are! 🙂
January 23, 2020 at 11:20 pm
pjaegly
Shannon, thank you for introducing me to the own voices movement. I too spent a year bed bound or in a wheelchair and understand the isolation you speak about. You have given me new avenues to create new story ideas! Thank you!
January 23, 2020 at 11:25 pm
Jilanne Hoffmann
Oooh, sweeeet advice, Shannon! Yessss! Thanks for the reminder–and perhaps a kick in the butt, LOL. Congrats on finding your own unique self! I think there are actually quite a few of you in there.
January 23, 2020 at 11:34 pm
Carolyn Currier
Thank you!
January 24, 2020 at 9:24 am
Lisa L Furness
***Weave the things that you love into your stories*** Love this and thank you for clarifying #Own Voice!
January 24, 2020 at 9:31 am
Kathy Ceceri
Thanks!
January 24, 2020 at 9:43 am
Judy Palermo
Sometimes you get to read what you need to hear. Thank you!
January 24, 2020 at 10:27 am
Kate Thackray Edwards
“If you write from a place of passion, your reader will know.” – I LOVE this.
January 24, 2020 at 12:34 pm
Priya Gopal
An uplifting post that I needed to read.
January 24, 2020 at 1:21 pm
vgraboski61gmailcom
This post definitely has me thinking. Thank you!
January 24, 2020 at 1:40 pm
yangmommy
Wow Shannon, your post had really struck a chord for me, esp in regards to own voices. I’m definitely going to put pen to paper & craft some passion paragraphs this wkend. Thx for the wisdom?
January 24, 2020 at 2:37 pm
Lisa Riddiough
Shannon, I love this so much. It makes sense and helps me find my truth.
January 24, 2020 at 4:41 pm
Stacey Corrigan
Thanks for getting me thinking! Also, you sound like someone with an incredible story to tell.
January 24, 2020 at 4:43 pm
Joyce
I loved reading about how you found your most recent topic. Looking forward to reading about Evelyn Glennie.
January 24, 2020 at 5:09 pm
Angela Padron
I don’t think it’s fair to say a person who is of one race can’t write about another. If you’re good at researching and are committed to telling the truth I think it can be done. Of course authenticity is important and more desired however I don’t think limiting authors especially when you want to write about someone as famous as Aretha is a wise thing to do. Having said that, it seems like he went down the right path and found the right story for you to write at that time. Thank you for sharing.
January 24, 2020 at 5:42 pm
Carol Gordon Ekster
Great post! And your idea to write about Evelyn Glennie instead of Aretha Franklin was brilliant. Thanks for the inspiration! And good luck with LISTEN: HOW ONE DEAF GIRL CHANGED PERCUSSION and all future titles.
January 24, 2020 at 5:48 pm
stephaniewildman
Thank you Shannon. I support #ownvoices and I agree we need diverse books and more diversity in every aspect of our lives. I also can’t write all-white books (I am white). So I have been thinking about these issues, and I appreciate your thoughtful help.
January 24, 2020 at 5:52 pm
Mary Ann Blair
I love this approach. Thinking about what makes each of us unique and how we can use our passions within our own stories. Thanks for the inspiration!
January 24, 2020 at 5:54 pm
Sandy Perlic
Great advice for all of us who want our stories to have heart! If we put things we care deeply about into our work, how can it not have heart? Thank you, Shannon!
January 24, 2020 at 6:18 pm
Michelle Kashinsky
This is brilliant!
“It’s about owning your voice.
So write what you know.
Know what you write.
And own your voice.”
Your post very much resonated with me, thank you for your words.
January 24, 2020 at 6:32 pm
Stephen S. Martin
Great advice on how to “switch Gears” on a topic or idea and make it work.
January 24, 2020 at 6:35 pm
Carolyn Bennett Fraiser
This is GREAT! There are SO many combinations of story ideas that I had never thought about. Thanks for giving me a new lens to consider looking through!
January 24, 2020 at 7:42 pm
imagination4lf
Thank you, Shannon. What an inspirational post. I’m looking forward to making my list.
January 24, 2020 at 8:25 pm
Virginia Manning
I really love the idea of keeping a list of everything that makes me me and looking to that list for inspiration and ideas! I’m going to start my list as soon as I’m done writing this comment! I wanted to say THANK YOU for your generous prize! Two winners and your book AND a consultation! THANK YOU!
January 24, 2020 at 9:37 pm
Janet Halfmann
Thank you so much for showing me a new way to look at what I’m passionate about.
January 24, 2020 at 10:29 pm
Judy Shemtob
Your passion and enthusiasm for finding your own voice is outstanding! It’s more than race, ethical background, it’s finding the value in yourself and sharing it. Thank you, Shannon Stocker.
January 24, 2020 at 10:31 pm
Barbara Lowell
Great post! I had struggled whether or not to revise a picture book biography manuscript about an African American for a very long time. I decided not to also because I’m white. Thank you for your ideas. I love them.
January 24, 2020 at 10:39 pm
Brinton Culp
Thank you for this post and for the great exercise of what makes you you!
January 24, 2020 at 11:09 pm
kelliejanebyrnes
Great post, and I loved hearing about the development of your non-fic pb idea. Looking forward to reading the book when it comes out!
January 24, 2020 at 11:35 pm
claireannette1
Your post is motivating me to really pay attention to what makes me, me! Thanks for your inspiring words. I’m looking forward to reading about Evelyn Glennie – what a story!
January 24, 2020 at 11:42 pm
Lori Menning
What a great post! I’m off to make my list. Thank you so much!
January 25, 2020 at 8:12 am
Jen Bailey
Great reminders, and tips to find your own voice. Thank you!
January 25, 2020 at 8:16 am
Patricia Alcaro
Thank you
January 25, 2020 at 9:41 am
Kimberly Marcus
This is such a thoughtful and beautiful post. Thank you!
January 25, 2020 at 10:26 am
susan schade
Fantastic post! It rings true and is very inspiring. I can’t wait to work on my list. Thank you.
January 25, 2020 at 2:10 pm
Aimee Satterlee
So happy for your success, Shannon. Looking forward to reading about Evelyn Glennie. It’s such a great idea to make a list like this. I never thought about it in exactly that way before. Thank you.
January 25, 2020 at 3:02 pm
Rebecca Heller
This post was so extremely helpful! It makes me sad to think that there are stories I can’t tell but you are so right. Great to think about all the things that make me, me.
January 25, 2020 at 3:23 pm
kmajor2013
I enjoyed reading your post, Shannon. I often wondered about writing stories like the one you mentioned here. I don’t feel like you have to be from the same ethnic group of your subject though. But I believe you need to share similar passions as your subject to be able to relate in your own unique way.
January 25, 2020 at 5:14 pm
angie9091
Thank you for this! This is such a hard topic and you handled it well.
January 25, 2020 at 5:23 pm
Dina Ticas
I appreciate your reflections and the encouragement to write from what we know. I suspect that it will lead to meaningful and equally inspired content.
January 25, 2020 at 5:31 pm
Carrie Cook
As I read this I knew exactly what I am supposed to write about. Thanks for the nudge to keep going with it.
January 25, 2020 at 6:18 pm
McCourt Thomas
Thank you!
January 25, 2020 at 7:06 pm
Susan Orton
I think you’ve given us all wonderful direction on writing the story only each one of us can write with our own heart included. I’m making my list and cross-referencing with all of my story ideas. Thank you, Shannon, for your inspiring advice.
January 25, 2020 at 7:20 pm
thesheilster
What a wonderful and inspirational post. You’ve given me so much to think about and lots of ideas.
January 25, 2020 at 7:34 pm
Elizabeth Ross
I have also grappled with what #ownvoices means for my stories, so thank you so very much for this perspective!
January 25, 2020 at 7:43 pm
Joanne Roberts
I agree, our stories should always come from a place of passion
January 25, 2020 at 7:58 pm
Jenn
Thank you for offering up a different perspective of what #ownvoices can be.
January 25, 2020 at 8:04 pm
julielacombeauthor
This was a wonderful exercise that helped strengthen one of my stories!
January 26, 2020 at 3:23 am
Stella Gardener
Wow those are some sobering statistics on diversity in pbs. I hope it keeps improving. Thanks for encouraging us to write from a place of passion.
January 26, 2020 at 3:44 am
Amanda Malek-Ahmadi
Loved your take on #ownvoices! Agreed that readers really can feel the passion in which you write. Congrats on your forthcoming books!
January 26, 2020 at 4:58 am
rjtraxel
Great advice! Listen sounds like an interesting study!
January 26, 2020 at 7:16 am
Nadine Poper
Wonderful advice here. Thank you and congratulations on your forthcoming book.
January 26, 2020 at 12:01 pm
Kathy Cornell Berman
Thanks for this post. It gives us all something important to consider when we write.
January 26, 2020 at 12:36 pm
Nancy Ferguson
Thanks Shannon for the steps to finding my own voice.. It impressed me that you took “Donn’t do it!” to find YOUR was.
January 26, 2020 at 1:41 pm
Lynn Alpert
Thanks for figuring out a way we can all participate in the #OwnVoices movement!
January 26, 2020 at 2:18 pm
Judy Bryan
Great post, Shannon! You show a wonderful perspective on #ownvoices.
January 26, 2020 at 4:11 pm
Heather Kelso
Great post! Thank you for sharing your story and how we each have our “own voice”. Congratulations on your upcoming PB.
January 26, 2020 at 4:21 pm
jessica shaw
This post was great, Shannon! I’m working on my list now. Thank you!!
January 26, 2020 at 7:14 pm
Stephanie Gibeault
Thank you for helping us hone in on our passions and what we in particular have to say! Such a helpful post!
January 26, 2020 at 7:15 pm
Angela De Groot
Own your voice – great advice.
January 26, 2020 at 7:31 pm
adavis6385
Thank you for sharing your story, Shannon! And for having the courage to dig deep and find your voice!
January 26, 2020 at 8:00 pm
teachom
Thank you! Sometimes it’s difficult to dig in to see what makes us different, especially when life is busy.
January 26, 2020 at 9:42 pm
ryanrobertsauthor
thanks for this
January 26, 2020 at 11:27 pm
Kari Gonzalez
Shannon, your exercise really spoke to me.i have some great ideas I can’t wait to start on. Thank you!
January 26, 2020 at 11:47 pm
Kathy Doherty
Cheers to my critique partner! Great post, Shannon…and how wonderful to hear you have your health back.
January 27, 2020 at 1:10 am
Terri Sabol
Thank you for really explaining #OwnVoices and we can use it to share our passion.
January 27, 2020 at 2:09 am
Kaye Baillie
I got straight onto this and jotted down my idea. Thanks, Shannon.
January 27, 2020 at 7:21 am
Diane Tulloch
Thank you for helping think of at least three ideas I could write about. And for helping understand #own voices.
January 27, 2020 at 9:04 am
Wendy
Your passion rang through this post. I’m inspired by all you have overcome on your journey and your intuition that helped you find your success.
January 27, 2020 at 9:39 am
Beth Gallagher
I was so excited and inspired reading Shannon’s post! As the white mom of brown children, it’s very frustrating to be told I can’t write about diverse subjects/characters! This post gave me the spark to own my own voice. THANK YOU!!!
January 27, 2020 at 12:01 pm
lanearnold
Thank you.
January 27, 2020 at 12:15 pm
topangamaria
Passion is such a lovely concept to write a one a day list about.
January 27, 2020 at 12:15 pm
anneiversonbellsouthnet
Encouraging post! Thank you, Shannon, for present “diversity” in many different lights. It certainly will allow me to view many of my ideas with/from a different perspective.
January 27, 2020 at 12:26 pm
Lauri Meyers
Shannon, this was fascinating to hear how you worked from one idea to another through mining your interests.
January 27, 2020 at 1:41 pm
Michelle O'Hara Levin
This is amazing – thank you. And yes, I got out the paper… 😉
January 27, 2020 at 2:43 pm
Ashley Bankhead
Thank you for sharing your ideas on own voices. I enjoyed reading your post.
January 27, 2020 at 2:46 pm
Pamela Haskin
You have given me a lot to think about. I thought #OwnVoices was all about race. Nice to know it’s not just that. Nice to meet a fellow east Texas girl. I know you are in Virginia now, but once a Texan always a Texan. Thanks so much for sharing with us.
January 27, 2020 at 3:09 pm
Rebecca Gardyn Levington
Love this post! Thank you for giving us new ways of thinking about what we can bring to the KidLit world!
January 27, 2020 at 4:22 pm
Mary Jo Wagner
I too have struggled with wanting to write stories that wouldn’t be an authentic #ownvoice. Thanks for offering viable alternatives to achieving that goal with authenticity and passion.
January 27, 2020 at 7:43 pm
Dawn Prochovnic
What a compelling example of how #ownvoices can bring an authenticity can richness to our work.
January 27, 2020 at 8:18 pm
Jennifer
Wow, great story! Thanks for sharing!
January 28, 2020 at 12:31 am
Amy Newbold
Great post, Shannon! I love “Can U Save the Day?” Thanks so much.
January 28, 2020 at 8:04 am
Lucky Jo Boscarino
Now I’ve got that chewing giraffe image stuck in my head…
January 28, 2020 at 11:10 am
doreenrobinson
True words of wisdom, Shannon! We all have our own experiences and can share them through our own voices.
January 28, 2020 at 1:46 pm
Kristin Wauson
This is such an inspiring post. Lots to think about after reading this!
January 28, 2020 at 5:54 pm
megcason1
Shannon, I love this!!!
January 29, 2020 at 1:39 am
jefnamc
Thank you, Shannon. Really interesting discussion in the thread there. I think looking for our own voices/stories will resonate most true in our work.
January 29, 2020 at 2:16 am
dlapmandi
I have always heard write what you know but the know what you write is new to me. Lived the idea of listing who you are then things you are good at, then what makes you different. Very unique approach. Thanks for the post.
January 29, 2020 at 6:58 am
marziehaali
Oh my, this is absolutely amazing!! I so so love your book-Id honestly love to win…Im a big big fan
January 29, 2020 at 11:12 am
Tracy Hora
I need to spend time on this list to bring out the “me” in my stories. Thanks!
January 29, 2020 at 11:27 am
Damon Dean, SevenAcreSky
Shannon, this is such deep writing wisdom. Thanks for the insight and sharing your story. Passion is the key. And our experiences are our best inner authors.
January 29, 2020 at 12:14 pm
shannonlhallShannon
I’m just now getting around to reading this article but Oh. My. Word. Shannon’s words gave me goosebumps. Thank you so much for this.
January 29, 2020 at 1:31 pm
Gaby Lagos
Thanks of your post Shannon, my passion list is short, so I am in. I love ” If you write from a place of passion, your reader will know. They will feel it”. The graphic about diversity will help us a lot.
January 29, 2020 at 2:16 pm
alisongoldberg
Thanks for this great post! I look forward to reading LISTEN.
January 29, 2020 at 2:31 pm
Laura Renauld
Love your debut and can’t wait to read your PB bio!
January 29, 2020 at 3:30 pm
LJ Laniewski
WOW! I print all the Storystorm posts…and this post was a page turner. I totally didn’t see where you were going with this and I am feeling completely inspired. Thank you!
January 29, 2020 at 4:01 pm
Lindsay Robinson
Thanks for the inspiration! You’ve given me a lot to ponder as I spend time unpacking my own voice.
January 29, 2020 at 10:13 pm
Sheri Dillard
Thanks for sharing your story, Shannon! I’m looking forward to your books! 🙂
January 30, 2020 at 5:54 am
sharongiltrow
Thank you for showing us that everyone has a #OwnVoice. I’m off to find mine :-).
January 30, 2020 at 12:18 pm
DK Ryland
You’re so right, we all have such unique experiences and stories to tell!
January 30, 2020 at 12:28 pm
Anne Appert
I love this approach to finding ideas, writing from our own viewpoints about what we are passionate about. Thank you for your post!
January 30, 2020 at 12:33 pm
Jennifer Hunt
Thanks for sharing your story! Inspiring!
January 30, 2020 at 4:42 pm
darshanakhiani
Love this post! Congrats!
January 30, 2020 at 5:16 pm
Laura Purdie Salas
So inspiring, Shannon! I love how you expanded your thinking on the own voices movement. Thanks for sharing!
January 30, 2020 at 6:58 pm
Maria J Cuesta
You made me think. Thanks a lot.
Great process and so needed.
Thanks!
January 30, 2020 at 8:02 pm
Lynne Marie
So happy to witness the continued success of my friend and critique partner. You go girl. Keep soaring! XOXO
January 31, 2020 at 1:23 am
Dani Duck
Thank you Shannon! I love those images by David Huyck. I have so many stories in me that could only be written my me. Thank you so much for making sure that we don’t put our voices over those of others who can better write these books.
January 31, 2020 at 2:44 am
Brenda Grant Lower
Weave things you love into your stories! I love it! That way you will be passionate about what you write, and the reader knows when you love what you’re writing about!
January 31, 2020 at 2:54 am
Sylvia Chen
Wow, such a good point for figuring out what can work well for OwnVoices, thank you!
January 31, 2020 at 2:12 pm
annemweaver
I’ve been circling for awhile on the right PB biography subject– your post might have just sparked it! Thank you!
January 31, 2020 at 3:13 pm
Lucy Staugler
Shannon, great food for thought about #OwnVoices. Thank you!
January 31, 2020 at 3:50 pm
Megan
This is really good insight.
January 31, 2020 at 8:28 pm
Maureen Tai
Thank you for an insightful and inspiring post. I am Malaysian and have long rued the lack of representation of my culture and heritage in children’s books but realise that I need a story to tell first, and I need to be passionate about that story. Congrats on the Evelyn Glennie PB: will definitely look out for it in the library!
January 31, 2020 at 8:40 pm
kmshelley
Such a great process. Thanks!
February 1, 2020 at 2:06 am
Tasha Hilderman
Whose story could I tell better than anyone else?”
This is going up above my computer. Thank you!
February 1, 2020 at 11:42 am
Nadia Salomon
Thank you for this post on #ownvoices. Congrats on your upcoming book!
February 1, 2020 at 2:08 pm
Rebecca Fleishman
A very thought-provoking and inspiring post- thank you!
February 1, 2020 at 5:26 pm
sheriradford
It’s definitely a HUGE topic right now – who is allowed to tell which story. It definitely requires more thought and discussion.
February 1, 2020 at 6:18 pm
Benji Rearick
Thank you for sharing about #OwnVoices and finding passion.
February 3, 2020 at 10:01 am
jeanjames926
This post was really inspirational! Thanks so much. Congratulations on your books!
February 3, 2020 at 5:40 pm
Anna Levin
Thank you Shannon for this inspirational post!
February 3, 2020 at 6:10 pm
michelebacon
Thank you for this. For ALL of this. ❤
February 5, 2020 at 11:59 am
Becky Shillington
This such an inspiring and uplifting post, Shannon, and your book sounds amazing! Congratulations!
February 5, 2020 at 4:09 pm
Lucretia Schafroth
Thank you for sharing your perspective and approach to owning your voice. Yours is an inspirational story about creative persistence! Great post, Shannon.
February 5, 2020 at 10:09 pm
CindyC
Thanks Shannon and Tara for another great post. Own voices is so important to our community right now.
January 24, 2021 at 11:36 pm
Virginia Rinkel
Just got out of a class, where this very thing was talked about – to infuse more of myself in the story. Thank you for this creative post.