September 2, 2020 12:12 pm
I am thrilled to share my Storystorm success story here!
For those who don’t know me, my name is Jaime Zollars. I’m an illustrator who has been drawing pictures for young readers since 2003. I have illustrated many books for other authors, most notably, Kate Milford’s wonderful GREENGLASS HOUSE series and Claire Legrand’s enchanting FOXHEART.
After years of illustrating the writings of others, my first solo picture book, THE TRUTH ABOUT DRAGONS, will be published by Little, Brown Books for Young Readers on September 15, 2020! This is very exciting to me because I told myself way back in 2003 that I was going to make my own book, and it took (WAY) longer than expected to make that happen.
WHY did it take so long to happen? Well, I keep an optimistic list of tasks for myself daily and only a fraction of them get done. Those remaining list items are carried over to the next day, and this series of events repeats daily. For 15 years. Turns out that nothing that isn’t at the very pressing top of my list will ever get done, unless: it is suddenly on fire, is very enjoyable, only takes a few minutes, or is decidedly easy. Writing a picture book (for me, at least) is not particularly enjoyable, takes more than a few minutes, and is not easy. Writing is an unpredictable creative process that takes energy and time and focus. Writing a picture book is simply a list item doesn’t get neatly checked off.
Enter the challenge to come up with one idea for a picture book a day. This is a task that is decidedly checkmark-able.
I resolved to give PiBoIdMo (Picture Book Idea Month, now Storystorm) a whirl back in 2014 with a friend and fellow-illustrator, Wilson Swain. (He is talented and you should check out his work at wilsonswain.com.) We kept each other accountable by checking in weekly and sharing our ideas. NOW, some of these ideas were not good. Truly, 90 percent of these ideas were terrible. BUT occasionally, something would trigger more thought. One of my ideas in particular, was just a title. “The Truth About Dragons” sat on my list for some time. It was all I could come up with on that particular day when I had to come up with something. But this title intrigued me enough to consider it well after the month was through.
About a year later, I was driving alone in my car and thinking about this title again. I asked myself pointedly: “What IS the truth about dragons?” (I often talk to myself when my kids are not in the car.) My brain struggled as usual with this query, but then surprised me by proclaiming that dragons LOVE mint chocolate chip ice cream, they are actually very afraid of kittens, AND they love their little sisters even if they pretend that they don’t. None of these examples actually made it into the book, but the concept stuck. Dragons are just like us! Over the next few days, this idea grew into the concept that sometimes things look different when we’re afraid, and if we can see past our fears, perhaps we’ll uncover the truth. I thought about how the illustrations could take the lead in this title and invite readers to figure out the visual puzzle for themselves (the dragons turn to kids one-by-one as the protagonist learns more about them). And THAT was when the task of making my own book went from just another checklist item that would be indefinitely carried over, to a checklist item on fire.
The rest of my PiBoIdMo ideas also helped me to feel confident soliciting an agent. I had several kernels of ideas ready to share as soon as I had agent interest, and I signed with the infectiously enthusiastic Stephen Barr at Writer’s House in 2015. He looked over my book ideas and The Truth About Dragons was his pick as well. He was invaluable as we started working with this story in the background of my other deadlines and sold the book at auction to the amazing Deirdre Jones at Little, Brown Books for Young Readers in 2017!
I’m honestly not sure I would have ever found the idea for this first solo book if it were not for Storystorm. I think we are mistaken if we assume (as I once did) that good ideas will come to us without some forced consideration. Waiting for inspiration to visit is a nice thought, but now I’m pretty sure that we can (and should) actively cultivate it. Storystorm, for me, was a low-pressure invitation to see things a little bit differently—if just for a month. Having to write something down, anything down, was a gift that trained my mind to actively pursue story alongside going about my days.
THE TRUTH ABOUT DRAGONS will be published on September 15, 2020. Kirkus even gave it a star (!) and calls it “A beautifully rendered, comforting, gentle lesson in overcoming fears.” I hope that it finds its way to the right parents, teachers, librarians, and readers as we all face a little bit of the unknown this fall.
Blog readers, Little Brown is giving away a copy of THE TRUTH ABOUT DRAGONS!
Leave one comment to enter.
A random winner will be chosen in a few weeks.
Good luck!
You can see more of Jaime’s art at jaimezollars.com, learn more about her art and writing process by following her on Instagram @jaimezollarsart, and preorder the Truth About Dragons here: https://bookshop.org/books/the-truth-about-dragons/9780316481489. Because there is just no way to do traditional book events at this time, send me a copy of a pre-order receipt from anywhere books are sold, along with your address, and I’ll even send you a signed mini-print to celebrate!
*Extra note for those interested: I also have a curriculum guide for this book for those who can use it—including parents who are doing some of the teaching in these strange times. I’m happy to send that out to anyone who e-mails me at jaime @ jaimezollars.com.
Posted by Tara Lazar
Categories: Picture Books, STORYSTORM Success Story
Tags: Jaime Zollars, The Truth About Dragons
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Congrats on your first book! Sometimes great things take extra time. Wishing you a ton more success!
By danielledufayet on September 2, 2020 at 12:18 pm
Wonderful post, so much recognisable stuff for me as an illustrator. What a joy to read. And it gives hope too, which always a bonus!
By chantalmarieb on September 2, 2020 at 12:20 pm
I love your honesty about the process of writing a picture book! Can’t wait to read your first book (congratulations!) and I’m sure it will be very successful.
By Amy Bradshaw on September 2, 2020 at 12:29 pm
Hello, Jaime! Congratulations to your new status as author/illustrator and for your heartfelt and candid description of how, even when illustration come easily, writing sometimes does not… a great testimonial for Storystorm! I remember fondly and vividly your wonderful workshop at our conference here in Maryland. I cannot wait to get this book!
By Susan Detwiler on September 2, 2020 at 12:31 pm
Hello Jamie, your story is so much my story. Just the idea of making priorities, checking off your list to make it a priority is huge, trying to focus and the whole arena makes you go YIKES!!.
If I just could get one sign that would solve my problem. But as you elaborate so precisely that’s not how it works. We know this of course but one less agonizing checklist would be welcomed.
Your story put me in check and maybe just maybe it’s a sign to stop beating myself up, allow for it to present itself when it’s time. I’ll continue to write, team up with a buddy and allow goodness to come. Thank you so much for sharing. I’m printing your article and placing it on my storyboard.
By carrines y clifton on September 2, 2020 at 12:42 pm
Congratulations from another list maker! I have a feeling kids will love this book!
By rindabeach on September 2, 2020 at 12:43 pm
This is so inspiring, and I can’t wait to read your book! (I’m a picture book junkie, a holdover from when I was an aspiring illustrator in an earlier life, even though I don’t draw much anymore.)
By Jenn on September 2, 2020 at 12:50 pm
Thank you for sharing.
By Kassy Keppol on September 2, 2020 at 1:00 pm
Congratulations! I would love a copy of this book because I am working on a manuscript about a misunderstood dragon right now. 😁
By Erin Siska on September 2, 2020 at 1:00 pm
Congratulations Jaime! Love your illustrations! I’m dying to read your book because I am working on a manuscript about a misunderstood dragon right now. 😁
By Erin Siska on September 2, 2020 at 1:03 pm
YEA for storystorm!
By TerriMichels on September 2, 2020 at 1:07 pm
I love hearing about how ideas become stories! Can’t wait for your book, Jaime!
By Pat Tanumihardja on September 2, 2020 at 1:08 pm
I love your title and how Storystorm led you to this story. Your cover illustration has me hooked and I look forward to reading your new book this month. Slow and steady is the best!
By Lori Dubbin on September 2, 2020 at 1:11 pm
Thanks for sharing your journey, and congratulations on the new book. It sounds fantastic! Tara, thanks for hosting and being the catalyst behind so many success stories.
By Jane Heitman Healy on September 2, 2020 at 1:11 pm
Jaime, this sounds adorable, and now that I have a grandson, I’ll be checking it out! Your comment about your agent choosing your book from a list of ideas made me wonder if you included your list in your query. How timely for this topic! Congratulations.
By Deb Lund on September 2, 2020 at 1:11 pm
Wow, that’s an amazing journey. Thanks for the inspiration to keep on going. Congrats to you!
By Sylvia Mary Grech on September 2, 2020 at 1:37 pm
Ah ha, there is a lot more to this than oh, dragons are just like us. Overcoming fears and finding a new perspective is an important theme/idea/lesson, not just for children either. Can’t wait to read your book and see your art, Jaime. Congratulations on The Truth About Dragons.
By Garnett Natasha on September 2, 2020 at 1:37 pm
Congratulations on your debut PB, Jaime! I’m sure there will be many, many more. Your art is lovely!
By mariagianferrari on September 2, 2020 at 1:41 pm
Oh, I talk to myself in the car all the time! It’s truly a great place to hash out ideas and say things out loud. I love the idea for this book and it’s journey into the world. Many congrats!
By Linda Mitchell on September 2, 2020 at 1:44 pm
How fun! Thanks for sharing!
By katiemillsgiorgio on September 2, 2020 at 1:50 pm
Congratulations, Jaime. And thank you for sharing your story. Storystorm truly is doable! I look forward to reading your book!
By Lisa Riddiough on September 2, 2020 at 1:53 pm
It is a Long and Winding Road !
By Stephen S. Martin on September 2, 2020 at 1:54 pm
Jaime I love dragons…and J’aime is love in French. Ooooo I love French Dragons…sorry I am a pre K teacher who would love your book. I’m also a dragon…when I don’t get my coffee. Dragon sounds so much better than slug. I’m thrilled for you.
By kiwijenny on September 2, 2020 at 1:57 pm
Wonderful, inspiring story!
By Lynn Becker on September 2, 2020 at 2:14 pm
What an inspiring post. I wish you the best as your book finds its way to our young treasures. And you’ve got me very curious as to what really gives with those dragons. Congratulations!
By angiecal76 on September 2, 2020 at 2:25 pm
Congratulations! That is a post that will give us all hope.Thanks for the inspiration.
By rosihollinbeck on September 2, 2020 at 2:25 pm
Congratulations, Jaime! PiBoIdMo (Storystorm) has inspired so many wonderful ideas!
By pathaap on September 2, 2020 at 2:26 pm
Congratulations! I can’t wait to read and find out all the truths about dragons!
By Judy Sobanski on September 2, 2020 at 2:29 pm
So much truth behind the time it takes to make a picture book. You know, though, when you start to talk to yourself about a story, that your mind is hooked on turning it into a reality, however long it takes. Congrats on your success!
By Jilanne Hoffmann on September 2, 2020 at 2:39 pm
Thanks for sharing. Story Storm inspired quite a few ideas for me and my friends. Good luck with your book.
By Chelle Martin on September 2, 2020 at 2:50 pm
Loved reading this success story and can’t wait to read The Truth About Dragons. Congrats, Jamie! (ps – Greenglass House occupies a treasured place on my bookshelf. The cover is amazing!)
By clairebobrow on September 2, 2020 at 3:07 pm
Congratulations Jaime! Thank you for sharing your journey as an illustrator and author! I love your art and I look forward to reading your book 🙂
By chardixon47 on September 2, 2020 at 3:11 pm
This is such a fantastic idea! I can see the dragons becoming kids as the protagonist’s fears subside. My twin sister and I will turn 60 on September 15, so I would love a copy of this book to share with her. (Yes, I said 60, not 6, but the enthusiasm is the same!)
By M.R. on September 2, 2020 at 3:14 pm
Thank you – as someone on a multi-multi-multi year journey, your post is so encouraging! Your new book looks like a delightful read and view. Congratulations!
By Gail Atherley on September 2, 2020 at 3:35 pm
Jaime, Best of luck with the release of your new book. I’ve heard that Little Brown does a good job with promoting books so hopefully The Truth About Dragons will do well despite the pandemic.
By Sherry Smith on September 2, 2020 at 3:44 pm
Congratulations! I’m looking forward to seeing this book in print!
By rosecappelli on September 2, 2020 at 4:01 pm
Jaime, This sounds like so much fun. I love the idea of helping kids understand and overcome their fears.
By Carol Gwin Nelson on September 2, 2020 at 4:41 pm
I’m curious! What IS the truth about dragons? I have to find out!
By kathydoherty1 on September 2, 2020 at 5:49 pm
Thanks Jaime, What a clever way to overcome fear! bravo to you for taking that idea and building it!
By Nancy Ferguson on September 2, 2020 at 5:59 pm
Congratulations on your book! Storystorm is great!
I love Dragons, they are one of my favorite mystical creatures. I would love to read your book and share it with my nieces and nephews.
By authorjanetparkinsonbryce on September 2, 2020 at 7:31 pm
I loved your post and immediately went back to my notebooks of ideas from PiBoIdMo and Storystorm and rooted out a few dormant ones. Congratulations on getting an agent who pushed you to write this book and illustrate. I know lots of children who would love a picture book about dragons more than a scary middle grade one.
By Sheri Radovich on September 2, 2020 at 8:23 pm
Congrats, Jaime! Your story is really inspiring.
By Susan Johnston Taylor on September 2, 2020 at 8:41 pm
Sounds lovely and a good lesson to all of us – to cultivate ideas, not just wait for them to descend upon us!
By Beverly Lyle Patt on September 2, 2020 at 9:16 pm
Can’t wait to read it.
By lillyarts on September 2, 2020 at 9:23 pm
It’s always fun to hear how someone else’s story came into being! This sounds like a great book with so much relevance for our times. Congrats!
By marty on September 2, 2020 at 9:51 pm
What an awesome story! And I LOVE the cover of your book! Beautiful! Congrats!!
By RebeccaTheWriter on September 2, 2020 at 10:17 pm
Wow! I always love and admire the PiBoIdMo/Storystorm success stories!
They are always sources of encouragement! Congratulations! Looking forward to reading your Dragon Tail err … Tale!! 🙂
By seschipper on September 2, 2020 at 11:44 pm
Congratulations! What you wrote about the daily list is absolutely true and your post is inspiring. I can’t wait to read your book!
By susan schade on September 3, 2020 at 12:16 am
I love Jaime Zollars. I first discovered her with Greenglass House. I’m excited to see that Jaime has her own book with her awesome illustrations now.
By Linda on September 3, 2020 at 2:14 am
What a satisfying success story! The concept and message in your picture book calls to my heart and from the cover I can see that the illustrations offer a loving and beautiful visual extension. Congratulations, Jaime, on your soon to be released gem!
By Suzanne Lewis on September 3, 2020 at 2:32 am
Can hardly wait to read this. Your descriptions of your struggles writing are helpful to read.
By Virginia Rinkel on September 3, 2020 at 5:21 am
I, too, talk to myself in the car. And I love the concept that dragons are just like us. Very cute! Congrats!
By CatheyNickell on September 3, 2020 at 10:15 am
What an inspiring story, and encouraging as well. Thanks for putting a smile on my face this morning. Congratulations!
By Darcee Freier on September 3, 2020 at 12:10 pm
Thank you for your honesty. Creating picture books is hard! But you make it look so easy.
By Kyle McBride on September 3, 2020 at 12:56 pm
I love hearing how Storystorm has helped people turn their ides into actual books! I have one idea that originated in Storystorm that is coming out next August!
By Rebecca Van Slyke on September 3, 2020 at 2:25 pm
I have come up with some great story ideas through Storystorm and other contests that have forced me to think out of the box. Congrats on your book Jamie.
By Deb Buschman (@DebBuschman) on September 3, 2020 at 3:33 pm
“Sometimes things look different when we’re afraid” — that’s so true (and not just for kids!). I can’t wait to read your book!
By Janet Frenck Sheets on September 4, 2020 at 1:34 am
Congrats on your new book. And hearing your story shows me that there is still time for me. Thank you.
By Diane Tulloch on September 4, 2020 at 8:26 am
I love this story. And the story behind it!
By Adam Blackman on September 4, 2020 at 12:06 pm
I love the idea of “actively cultivating” inspiration. Congratulations on this book! I look forward to reading it.
By Sarah Meade on September 4, 2020 at 3:18 pm
Jaime, Congratulations! You are a success story!!
By Mary York on September 4, 2020 at 6:34 pm
I really want to know The Truth About Dragons. Can’t wait!
By Jill Purtee (@JillPurtee) on September 5, 2020 at 8:57 pm
Congratulations! That’s a wonderful idea for a book and can’t wait to read it. Storystorm definitely gets those creative juices flowing. Congratulations again on your book and being able to check something off your list!
By Barbara Senenman on September 6, 2020 at 7:42 am
I love this. 🙂
By Joy Pitcairn on September 6, 2020 at 8:34 am
What a great post, Jaime! Thank you so much for sharing, and congratulations on your book! 🙂
By Abby Wooldridge on September 6, 2020 at 10:44 am
Congrats on your publication. The idea behind the story – overcoming fear – is a good theme for these crazy days. Best to you!
By Vicki Wilke on September 6, 2020 at 12:55 pm
What a great idea for a book! I’m glad you kept playing with the idea until the story made itself known–sounds like it was worth the wait. Can’t wait to check it out!
By Sandy Perlic on September 6, 2020 at 2:31 pm
I already love dragons, but I love them more knowing that they love mint chocolate chip ice cream too! 🙂
By Dana Atnip on September 7, 2020 at 3:10 pm
Can hardly wait to read this dragon book. Dragon’s are one of my granddaughters favorites. She’d been drawing them since she could hold a crayon.
By Virginia Rinkel on September 7, 2020 at 5:03 pm
Thanks for sharing your inspiring journey and congratulations!
By LenoraBiemans (@BiemansLenora) on September 8, 2020 at 11:29 am
This sounds like a great book! Who doesn’t want to learn more about dragons! Congrats!
By Angie on September 16, 2020 at 10:02 pm
Your illustrations always catch my eye and then I go, “Oh! It’s her again! No wonder.” in a totally good way. Congratulations for seeing a dream come true. Here’s to many more. and thank-you
By Joanne Roberts on October 14, 2020 at 11:34 pm
Love the artwork with “The Truth About Dragons!”
And congrats on your first solo book!
By Rebecca Arent-Draper on January 2, 2021 at 3:27 pm
Congratulations! I’m a fan of anything with dragons!
By Shelley Isaacson on January 7, 2021 at 8:40 am
Your book looks awesome. Congratulations! I will definitely keep an eye out for it 🙂
By Kyla Clark on January 29, 2021 at 12:15 am
Ooh, I liked the original idea with dragons loving mint chocolate chip ice cream, being very afraid of kittens, and loving little sisters even if they pretend that they don’t. But since time and revisions lead to even better stories, I am curious what you came up with. I NEED TO KNOW THE TRUTH ABOUT DRAGONS!!!
Congrats on your book!
By Linda Hofke on February 7, 2021 at 11:31 am