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.
76 comments
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September 2, 2020 at 12:18 pm
danielledufayet
Congrats on your first book! Sometimes great things take extra time. Wishing you a ton more success!
September 2, 2020 at 12:20 pm
chantalmarieb
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!
September 2, 2020 at 12:29 pm
Amy Bradshaw
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.
September 2, 2020 at 12:31 pm
Susan Detwiler
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!
September 2, 2020 at 12:42 pm
carrines y clifton
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.
September 2, 2020 at 12:43 pm
rindabeach
Congratulations from another list maker! I have a feeling kids will love this book!
September 2, 2020 at 12:50 pm
Jenn
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.)
September 2, 2020 at 1:00 pm
Kassy Keppol
Thank you for sharing.
September 2, 2020 at 1:00 pm
Erin Siska
Congratulations! I would love a copy of this book because I am working on a manuscript about a misunderstood dragon right now. 😁
September 2, 2020 at 1:03 pm
Erin Siska
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. 😁
September 2, 2020 at 1:07 pm
TerriMichels
YEA for storystorm!
September 2, 2020 at 1:08 pm
Pat Tanumihardja
I love hearing about how ideas become stories! Can’t wait for your book, Jaime!
September 2, 2020 at 1:11 pm
Lori Dubbin
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!
September 2, 2020 at 1:11 pm
Jane Heitman Healy
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.
September 2, 2020 at 1:11 pm
Deb Lund
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.
September 2, 2020 at 1:37 pm
Sylvia Mary Grech
Wow, that’s an amazing journey. Thanks for the inspiration to keep on going. Congrats to you!
September 2, 2020 at 1:37 pm
Garnett Natasha
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.
September 2, 2020 at 1:41 pm
mariagianferrari
Congratulations on your debut PB, Jaime! I’m sure there will be many, many more. Your art is lovely!
September 2, 2020 at 1:44 pm
Linda Mitchell
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!
September 2, 2020 at 1:50 pm
katiemillsgiorgio
How fun! Thanks for sharing!
September 2, 2020 at 1:53 pm
Lisa Riddiough
Congratulations, Jaime. And thank you for sharing your story. Storystorm truly is doable! I look forward to reading your book!
September 2, 2020 at 1:54 pm
Stephen S. Martin
It is a Long and Winding Road !
September 2, 2020 at 1:57 pm
kiwijenny
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.
September 2, 2020 at 2:14 pm
Lynn Becker
Wonderful, inspiring story!
September 2, 2020 at 2:25 pm
angiecal76
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!
September 2, 2020 at 2:25 pm
rosihollinbeck
Congratulations! That is a post that will give us all hope.Thanks for the inspiration.
September 2, 2020 at 2:26 pm
pathaap
Congratulations, Jaime! PiBoIdMo (Storystorm) has inspired so many wonderful ideas!
September 2, 2020 at 2:29 pm
Judy Sobanski
Congratulations! I can’t wait to read and find out all the truths about dragons!
September 2, 2020 at 2:39 pm
Jilanne Hoffmann
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!
September 2, 2020 at 2:50 pm
Chelle Martin
Thanks for sharing. Story Storm inspired quite a few ideas for me and my friends. Good luck with your book.
September 2, 2020 at 3:07 pm
clairebobrow
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!)
September 2, 2020 at 3:11 pm
chardixon47
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 🙂
September 2, 2020 at 3:14 pm
M.R.
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!)
September 2, 2020 at 3:35 pm
Gail Atherley
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!
September 2, 2020 at 3:44 pm
Sherry Smith
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.
September 2, 2020 at 4:01 pm
rosecappelli
Congratulations! I’m looking forward to seeing this book in print!
September 2, 2020 at 4:41 pm
Carol Gwin Nelson
Jaime, This sounds like so much fun. I love the idea of helping kids understand and overcome their fears.
September 2, 2020 at 5:49 pm
kathydoherty1
I’m curious! What IS the truth about dragons? I have to find out!
September 2, 2020 at 5:59 pm
Nancy Ferguson
Thanks Jaime, What a clever way to overcome fear! bravo to you for taking that idea and building it!
September 2, 2020 at 7:31 pm
authorjanetparkinsonbryce
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.
September 2, 2020 at 8:23 pm
Sheri Radovich
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.
September 2, 2020 at 8:41 pm
Susan Johnston Taylor
Congrats, Jaime! Your story is really inspiring.
September 2, 2020 at 9:16 pm
Beverly Lyle Patt
Sounds lovely and a good lesson to all of us – to cultivate ideas, not just wait for them to descend upon us!
September 2, 2020 at 9:23 pm
lillyarts
Can’t wait to read it.
September 2, 2020 at 9:51 pm
marty
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!
September 2, 2020 at 10:17 pm
RebeccaTheWriter
What an awesome story! And I LOVE the cover of your book! Beautiful! Congrats!!
September 2, 2020 at 11:44 pm
seschipper
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!! 🙂
September 3, 2020 at 12:16 am
susan schade
Congratulations! What you wrote about the daily list is absolutely true and your post is inspiring. I can’t wait to read your book!
September 3, 2020 at 2:14 am
Linda
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.
September 3, 2020 at 2:32 am
Suzanne Lewis
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!
September 3, 2020 at 5:21 am
Virginia Rinkel
Can hardly wait to read this. Your descriptions of your struggles writing are helpful to read.
September 3, 2020 at 10:15 am
CatheyNickell
I, too, talk to myself in the car. And I love the concept that dragons are just like us. Very cute! Congrats!
September 3, 2020 at 12:10 pm
Darcee Freier
What an inspiring story, and encouraging as well. Thanks for putting a smile on my face this morning. Congratulations!
September 3, 2020 at 12:56 pm
Kyle McBride
Thank you for your honesty. Creating picture books is hard! But you make it look so easy.
September 3, 2020 at 2:25 pm
Rebecca Van Slyke
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!
September 3, 2020 at 3:33 pm
Deb Buschman (@DebBuschman)
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.
September 4, 2020 at 1:34 am
Janet Frenck Sheets
“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!
September 4, 2020 at 8:26 am
Diane Tulloch
Congrats on your new book. And hearing your story shows me that there is still time for me. Thank you.
September 4, 2020 at 12:06 pm
Adam Blackman
I love this story. And the story behind it!
September 4, 2020 at 3:18 pm
Sarah Meade
I love the idea of “actively cultivating” inspiration. Congratulations on this book! I look forward to reading it.
September 4, 2020 at 6:34 pm
Mary York
Jaime, Congratulations! You are a success story!!
September 5, 2020 at 8:57 pm
Jill Purtee (@JillPurtee)
I really want to know The Truth About Dragons. Can’t wait!
September 6, 2020 at 7:42 am
Barbara Senenman
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!
September 6, 2020 at 8:34 am
Joy Pitcairn
I love this. 🙂
September 6, 2020 at 10:44 am
Abby Wooldridge
What a great post, Jaime! Thank you so much for sharing, and congratulations on your book! 🙂
September 6, 2020 at 12:55 pm
Vicki Wilke
Congrats on your publication. The idea behind the story – overcoming fear – is a good theme for these crazy days. Best to you!
September 6, 2020 at 2:31 pm
Sandy Perlic
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!
September 7, 2020 at 3:10 pm
Dana Atnip
I already love dragons, but I love them more knowing that they love mint chocolate chip ice cream too! 🙂
September 7, 2020 at 5:03 pm
Virginia Rinkel
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.
September 8, 2020 at 11:29 am
LenoraBiemans (@BiemansLenora)
Thanks for sharing your inspiring journey and congratulations!
September 16, 2020 at 10:02 pm
Angie
This sounds like a great book! Who doesn’t want to learn more about dragons! Congrats!
October 14, 2020 at 11:34 pm
Joanne Roberts
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
January 2, 2021 at 3:27 pm
Rebecca Arent-Draper
Love the artwork with “The Truth About Dragons!”
And congrats on your first solo book!
January 7, 2021 at 8:40 am
Shelley Isaacson
Congratulations! I’m a fan of anything with dragons!
January 29, 2021 at 12:15 am
Kyla Clark
Your book looks awesome. Congratulations! I will definitely keep an eye out for it 🙂
February 7, 2021 at 11:31 am
Linda Hofke
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!