by Lauren Kerstein
We’re off to see the Wizard! The Wizard of story ideas…
Often, when I begin exploring an idea, my journey leads to LOTS of new ideas. Grab a notebook and let’s go! Let me show you what I mean.
Step One: THE SPARK
Let’s start with a concrete idea.
Here’s one: Squirrel loves peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, but his brother is allergic so he can’t eat them. Ever!
Step Two: WORD BANK WONDER
Let’s create a word bank of words we might use in this story:
Step 3: FOLLOW THE YELLOW BRICK ROAD
Let’s pick a few of the words we added to our word bank and follow that lovely Yellow Brick Road. What other ideas might we discover?
Step 4: CELEBRATE GOOD TIMES
Let’s celebrate. We just generated a whole list of new ideas by following the Yellow Brick Road. WOO HOO!
Step 5: RECORD IT OR WEEP
Now, spend some time fleshing out a few of those ideas before you lose them. You can write in your notebook or on blank paper. You can use the Storystorm template I created. Or you can do both. I fill out as much of my template as I can. Then, if I’m really inspired by an idea, I write notes, notes, and more notes in a journal dedicated to this new book idea.
ADDED BONUS: The other thing to keep in mind is that following the Yellow Brick Road not only leads to new ideas, it can also help you add layers to your manuscript. And as we all know, layers are a very good thing. In my picture book HOME FOR A WHILE (Illustrated by Natalia Moore/Magination Press/ February 2, 2021), I incorporated many different layers: foster care, finding your strengths, and emotion regulation/coping strategies. These layers clicked into place as I followed the Yellow Brick Road and really explored the heart of Calvin’s story. I can’t wait for you to meet him!
So, GO FORTH and conquer, and follow the Yellow Brick Road. You just never know where it might lead!
Lauren Kerstein is an author and psychotherapist. She is a Jersey girl at heart who currently lives in Colorado with her husband, their two dragons…er, daughters, and their rescue dog. Lauren is the author of the Rosie the Dragon and Charlie picture book series (Illustrated by Nate Wragg/Two Lions). Her latest picture book, HOME FOR A WHILE (Illustrated by Natalia Moore/Magination Press) moves into shelves February 2, 2021. Lauren also writes books in her field. Lauren is one of the founders of #ReVISIONweek, a judge with Rate Your Story, runs a critique business, and is a long-time member of 12×12 and SCBWI. Her writing goals are simple. Read voraciously. Embrace feedback. Grow each day. Work hard. Be passionate. Write courageously. Touch children’s hearts. You can visit her at LaurenKerstein.net, and follow her on Twitter @LaurenKerstein, Instagram @LaurenKerstein and Facebook.
Lauren is giving away a picture book critique and a copy of HOME FOR A WHILE.
Two separate winners will be randomly chosen.
Leave one comment below to enter.
You’re eligible to win if you’re a registered Storystorm participant and you have commented once below.
Writing for Kids (While Raising Them) 
724 comments
Comments feed for this article
January 14, 2021 at 8:06 am
Sarah Hetu-Radny
This is such a great idea for building upon story Sparks! Thank you!!!
January 14, 2021 at 8:07 am
Melissa H. Mwai
Great advice, Lauren! The word bank and building off of other ideas like bricks so really practical!
January 14, 2021 at 8:09 am
Mark Bentz
Thank you Lauren. I like the list idea. Many more books can come from that. Such a big help. Congratulations on your books. Looking forward to reading them.
January 14, 2021 at 8:09 am
Julia
Your template looks like it will be really helpful! Thank you!
January 14, 2021 at 8:10 am
Cristina Raymer
Thank you so much for this post! I love your template idea and how to add layers to a story!
January 14, 2021 at 8:11 am
jjarson1
Thank you!
January 14, 2021 at 8:12 am
Leslie Tayloe
Wow! Very valuable information. Im printing out for my file. Thank you!
January 14, 2021 at 8:13 am
Louann Brown
I love the word bank suggestion. Doing this not only fleshes out a story idea but often generates new ideas for other stories. Thanks for your post.
January 14, 2021 at 8:13 am
stiefelchana
Congrats Lauren! Now I’m singing “Follow follow follow follow….!” Love HOME FOR A WHILE!
January 14, 2021 at 8:14 am
Leslie Tayloe
Wow! Great comments. Very valuable information. Saving these comments!
January 14, 2021 at 8:14 am
Rebster
This message exercise is fab! And as you say, it has the potential to help one to build layers into their story. Thanks, Lauren!
January 14, 2021 at 8:19 am
Jess
Great ideas and thanks for the link to the templates!
January 14, 2021 at 8:23 am
michelemeleen
I really never use a formal idea formation process, but I feel like following these steps (maybe with my son?) could be really fun! Thanks for sharing.
January 14, 2021 at 8:23 am
MaryLee Flannigan
Thank you Lauren!
January 14, 2021 at 8:24 am
Amy Houts
I like your yellow brick road analogy! Congratulations on your new book!
January 14, 2021 at 8:25 am
Sara Ackerman
Neat post! Thank you for the practical story-generating advice. Trying it now!
January 14, 2021 at 8:26 am
Lisa Oppenheim
Thanks, Lauren, for your brainstorming technique and also for the templates on your website. So valuable!!
January 14, 2021 at 8:26 am
mjmeyer06
I LOVE this process! I think this will work for me. 😊
January 14, 2021 at 8:27 am
Sallye O'Rourke
so much gold on this yellow brick road of ideas! thanks for sharing!
January 14, 2021 at 8:29 am
Jessica Hinrichs
Love the word bank idea! Thanks Lauren!
January 14, 2021 at 8:30 am
Judie
Creative idea. Thanks for sharing.
January 14, 2021 at 8:30 am
Suzanne Lewis
It’s always interesting and helpful to see an accomplished picture book author’s story creation process. Thanks so much for sharing yours, Lauren!
January 14, 2021 at 8:33 am
Andrea Mack
I love your word bank idea! I’m always looking for idea that will help with adding layers.
January 14, 2021 at 8:33 am
Kathy
Thanks for your suggestions using word bank and follow the yellow brick road…it turned on a light bulb. Kathy
January 14, 2021 at 8:35 am
kiwijenny
Thanks for this. I love the word bank wonder and following the yellow brick road.
January 14, 2021 at 8:36 am
karamarsee8716
Thank you Lauren for this post- I love the idea of following an idea down all sorts of paths, and being open to inviting a whole other menagerie of ideas. Wonderful.
January 14, 2021 at 8:40 am
Jennifer Blanck
Thank you for sharing your step-by-step process and guiding us down the yellow brick road! I’m looking forward to increasing the number of my ideas with this approach.
January 14, 2021 at 8:40 am
Jany Campana
Thanks Lauren-I’m following The Yellow Brick Road!
January 14, 2021 at 8:41 am
thecrowsmap
Congratulations on your book, Lauren! I like this process.
Gail Hartman
January 14, 2021 at 8:41 am
Meli Glickman
Great tips! I especially appreciate the advice about adding layers to our stories. Thanks for sharing!
January 14, 2021 at 8:45 am
Lucretia S.
Wow! What a fabulous post, Lauren! Totally resonated with me. I especially like the way that you use your approach to add layers to your stories. Thank you!!
Congratulations on your newest PB. Looking forward to reading it.
January 14, 2021 at 8:46 am
Ann Harrell
Great strategy and helpful tips. Thank you!
January 14, 2021 at 8:46 am
Robin Brett Wechsler
Fleshing out ideas like we’re following the Yellow Brick Road is a clever and helpful tool. Thanks, Lauren! I’m excited to read HOME FOR A WHILE.
January 14, 2021 at 8:48 am
Rebecca Gardyn Levington
First of all, I love your “yellow brick road” analogy! (The Wizard of Oz was such a magical movie and experience for me as a child…I lived in the pre-VCR, pre-DVR, pre-Netflix–era and remember fondly how The Wizard of Oz was shown only ONCE a year on TV. It was always something to look forward to! But I digress…. lol). Thank you for this great tool for brainstorming!! I will definitely try it out!
Rebecca Gardyn Levington
January 14, 2021 at 8:50 am
Emily Chibwana
Brilliant! I love this systematic approach!
Thanks for sharing!
January 14, 2021 at 8:51 am
junegraham
Thank you for showing how you generate ideas or layers for a book. I never thought you could get so many ideas out of what I would have thought of as just one idea. Need to try this with some of my own ideas.
January 14, 2021 at 8:52 am
Hannah
Great advice, thank you! I always do wordbanks for poetry but hadn’t really thought about it for my picture books!
January 14, 2021 at 8:54 am
Tara Cerven
Excellent advice here- thank you!
January 14, 2021 at 8:58 am
kirstenbockblog
Great idea! Thanks, Lauren.
January 14, 2021 at 8:59 am
Alice Fulgione
Great post! I especially liked the word bank idea.
January 14, 2021 at 9:00 am
kelbelroberts
Your ideas to stretch out the topic are great! Love it!!!
January 14, 2021 at 9:00 am
Cathy L. Murphy
Putting my ruby slippers on and skipping along to find the magic! Thanks for the inspiration, Lauren.
January 14, 2021 at 9:01 am
Catherine
This is such an awesome way to develop story ideas – thank you so much Lauren!
January 14, 2021 at 9:02 am
Artsybarncat
Love these ideas! I think I’ll try them out today!
Thank you!!
January 14, 2021 at 9:02 am
Mary Beth Rice
The Word Bank exercise is Golden! This is a great post and your website was helpful too! Thank you, Lauren.
January 14, 2021 at 9:04 am
Susan Drew
Thank you Lauren! What a fun way to generate ideas. I’m going to grab my coffee and get started!
January 14, 2021 at 9:04 am
Joyce Uglow
The word bank + question is a wonderful way to brainstorm new ideas. Thank you!
January 14, 2021 at 9:05 am
Deb Buschman (@DebBuschman)
Word bank to spur on new roads!!! Genius. Thanks Lauren. Down the road I go. Toto too!
January 14, 2021 at 9:05 am
Elana
Love your yellow brick road idea. Definitely going to try it!
January 14, 2021 at 9:07 am
Naana Amissah
Thank you Lauren, for leading us down the yellow brick road to find ideas, using the word bank.
January 14, 2021 at 9:08 am
Cynthia Mochowski
This is a fantastic idea! I am definitely going to use this strategy not only for myself, but with my high school English classes. Thank you so much.
January 14, 2021 at 9:12 am
Mitchell Linda
This post is a keeper! I love the idea generation of the yellow brick road! Thank you.
January 14, 2021 at 9:12 am
kathalsey
Such a concrete way to make ideas follow the road we create! Ty, Lauren. Your new book sounds amazing and so needed.
January 14, 2021 at 9:13 am
Meaghan Br
Love these ideas – thanks for sharing Lauren.
January 14, 2021 at 9:13 am
Maria Bursey
Thank you for this helpful template and your wise words. I feel you have really hit on the heart of how to take the seed of an idea and grow it into a garden.
January 14, 2021 at 9:15 am
silentkdesign
Such a great idea!! I always think a story needs to profoundly come to me, but sometimes just writing down things you know can lead you down an interesting road you would have never gone down. Thanks for the morning motivation!
January 14, 2021 at 9:16 am
Mia Geiger
Thank you for sharing this very helpful post about how you generate and expand upon ideas. Very interesting and inspiring, Lauren! Best wishes with your new book!
January 14, 2021 at 9:18 am
topangamaria
But how does a squirrel show emotion? Great questions to ask oneself.
AMAZING gold mine of templates. How generous.
January 14, 2021 at 9:19 am
Elizabeth Moore
Can’t wait to try this idea and follow my own yellow brick road. Thank you for sharing this idea.
January 14, 2021 at 9:19 am
Janet Krauthamer
The related word bank idea is brilliant and I can’t wait to try it! Also looking forward to reading HOME FOR A WHILE. (Although I think my favorite part of this post might be your typewriter pen holder!)
January 14, 2021 at 9:21 am
Janet Krauthamer
Thank you for sharing your wisdom with us!
January 14, 2021 at 9:20 am
catherine owen
I like this, generating ideas from an idea. I see a network of pathways and lots of choices, directions to go in. Thanks!
January 14, 2021 at 9:24 am
Writer on the run
The template is great- I need to follow up on story ideas and spend some time growing those ideas before the story seed fades and dies. Thank you so much for the inspiration!
January 14, 2021 at 9:26 am
Charles Richardson
Your framework for generating depth with your ideas is actionable. Good stuff.
January 14, 2021 at 9:28 am
claireflewis
Thanks for a great post, Kersten! I love your idea of creating a word bank then ‘following the yellow brick road’ and I’m going to try it!
January 14, 2021 at 9:33 am
claireflewis
Sorry, I meant Lauren not Kersten!! Apologies!
January 14, 2021 at 9:29 am
Jessica Fries-Gaither
What a terrific template! I can’t wait to give this a try to discover new ideas or add layers to one idea!
January 14, 2021 at 9:29 am
Betsy
Thank you Lauren!!! I’ve to your website and downloaded your template! And love the Yellow Brick Road research! Thanks fir the inspiration!!
January 14, 2021 at 9:29 am
Susan
Love the Storystorm template. Great story generating ideas. Thank you!
January 14, 2021 at 9:31 am
Melisa Wrex
Oooh, this is a good one too! So many new ways to generate ideas in just one blog. The hits just keep coming. I question everything else in my life, why not this?
Thank you!
January 14, 2021 at 9:33 am
Deborah Foster
Oh, I love this idea!!!
January 14, 2021 at 9:36 am
Sarah Kilfoil
Fleshing out a story via the yellow brick road is such a helpful way for me to write. Thank you!
January 14, 2021 at 9:37 am
pathaap
I love this approach to coming up with ideas, Lauren! Can’t wait to get going!
January 14, 2021 at 9:37 am
Beth Charles
I love all this advice! I especially loved your word bank and seeing how it generates ideas. Thanks for sharing. I cant wait to read about Calvin!
January 14, 2021 at 9:38 am
Kristy Nuttall
Thank you for sharing these ideas and templates! I love this recipe for getting started–write down a concrete idea, create a wordbank, and follow the yellow brick road by creating a list of key questions and concepts from your most promising words in the wordbank. Genius!
January 14, 2021 at 9:38 am
paulajbecker
Very helpful Thanks for the template, Lauren!
January 14, 2021 at 9:43 am
Tracy Hora
Oh my gosh! I love this idea!! I sorta do it already- but to do it purposefully… WOW!!! Thank you!
January 14, 2021 at 9:44 am
Megan Whitaker
That’s a great way to make one spark come alive! I’ve never built a story like this. I’ll have to take a look at some past Storystorm ideas and see what happens. Thank you and Congrats!
January 14, 2021 at 9:46 am
kimpfenn
Love this post on how to take an idea and develop it different ways! Thanks Lauren and Congratulations on your new book—Home For A While. Looking forward to reading it!
January 14, 2021 at 9:46 am
Earl @ The Chronicles Of A Children's Book Writer
The template seems very helpful with the ideas I want to explore further!
January 14, 2021 at 9:46 am
Liz Rice
I love that — Follow the Yellow Brick Road! Great way to generate more ideas from the initial idea!!Thank you!
January 14, 2021 at 9:47 am
Jessica Stremer
I love the theme that keeps returning in these posts: Brainstorm, ask questions, and let your imagination lead the way. Thanks for sharing your process!
January 14, 2021 at 9:50 am
rosecappelli
Thanks for the great ideas! It’s fun when ideas keep popping up! Looking forward to reading your book.
January 14, 2021 at 9:51 am
Cathy Lentes
Well, that was helpful! I love posts that show me new ways to discover possibilities along the writerly path.Thanks!
January 14, 2021 at 9:51 am
Kathiann Weatherbee (@WeatherbeeBooks)
Your post is so helpful! I’m definitely going to try it. And you book looks adorable, I’m going to have to check it out. Thanks for the inspiration!
January 14, 2021 at 9:51 am
Erin Rew
This is great! Adding layers to my manuscripts is definitely something I need to do.
January 14, 2021 at 9:51 am
ryanrobertsauthor
Thanks! A great, practical exercise for generating ideas!
January 14, 2021 at 9:53 am
Susan Latta
Thank you for the specific ideas on developing layers and idea generation. Wonderful!
January 14, 2021 at 9:53 am
saintamovin
Thank you Lauren 😊
January 14, 2021 at 9:54 am
mona861
This is great. I just shared a made up outline with my crit group for making sure we get everything into the story. And I did include word bank. However, I didn’t think any further than to create a list of words for the particular story I’m working on. This post opens up a whole new way to use the bank. Wow! Thank you, thank you, for helping me color outside of the lines!
January 14, 2021 at 9:54 am
pollyrenner
A word bank for each story?! What a brilliant idea – cannot believe I’ve never done that. A bank of key words and phrases would be so helpful!! Thank you Lauren:>
January 14, 2021 at 9:55 am
Stefanie Hohl
Great ideas!
January 14, 2021 at 9:56 am
lavern15
This idea is golden! Thanks for the templates and tips!
January 14, 2021 at 9:56 am
Sara Fajardo
What a clever way of generating story ideas. Thank you!
January 14, 2021 at 9:57 am
Emily Durant
What a great idea- I’m going to try this today! Thank you!
January 14, 2021 at 9:59 am
Yvonne Ng
This is helpful advice. Thanks!
January 14, 2021 at 9:59 am
Kathy Crable
A better way to brainstorm! Love it!
January 14, 2021 at 10:01 am
nataliecohn0258
Thank you for the great ideas I love your word bank wonder and I’m ready to try it out.
January 14, 2021 at 10:04 am
Kelly Darke
Love the yellow brick road analogy. Great ideas for story storming. Thank you!
January 14, 2021 at 10:05 am
Carmela McCain Simmons
Thank you for helping us dig deeper when we come up with our new ideas. Great suggestions!
January 14, 2021 at 10:07 am
Lynn Baldwin
Great ideas! Thank you.
January 14, 2021 at 10:07 am
Deborah Agranat Sullivan
Any tip involving the Wizard of Oz is a keeper! Great advice – thanks for sharing!
January 14, 2021 at 10:08 am
Sarah SarahH
Lauren, I love the idea of using this technique to add layers. Your YBR’s are so different from each other, but I love how each one could be worked in with another for a story. To borrow from another classic story, yellow brick roads could be a real rabbit hole to get lost in!
January 14, 2021 at 10:09 am
Tanya Konerman
I like the idea of the Word Bank, then expanding each idea to expand and add layers. Gonna try this today with a new idea!
January 14, 2021 at 10:09 am
Debi Boccanfuso
Such a concrete path to creating and generating ideas. Thank you!!
January 14, 2021 at 10:09 am
beckylevine
This is fascinating. I’ve never thought about playing with the initial idea in this way… I will now!
January 14, 2021 at 10:11 am
Julie Maria Harris
Thank you so much for taking us through your process. Great ideas to try!
January 14, 2021 at 10:11 am
Cathy McDonnell
Thank you Lauren, I like how following the yellow brick road adds so many layers to a story. 🎵I’m off to create my most wonderful story of all 🎵 😊
January 14, 2021 at 10:13 am
Tanja Bauerle
I love this method! Great idea. Thank you for sharing. T
January 14, 2021 at 10:14 am
steveheron
Interesting approach – thanks for sharing
January 14, 2021 at 10:14 am
Nancy Colle
Ooh, I’ll have to check out HOME FOR A WHILE.
Thank you!
January 14, 2021 at 10:15 am
Jessica Coupé
Thanks for the ideas and templates! Very useful.
January 14, 2021 at 10:15 am
Shelley Isaacson
Love everything about this post: The Wizard of Oz, tangible tips, and a take-away template. And an A+ for your pen/pencil holder! Congrats on your upcoming book birthday!
January 14, 2021 at 10:18 am
Rozana Rajkumari
Thanks so much for sharing your process, love the word bank.
January 14, 2021 at 10:20 am
Robin CUrrie
Wow – what a great article! Love the OZ imagery.
January 14, 2021 at 10:22 am
jms5880
Thank you for sharing and for the great ideas.
January 14, 2021 at 10:24 am
Jane Heitman Healy
This is a brilliant process that I will return to again and again! Thanks, Lauren!
January 14, 2021 at 10:25 am
Bennett Dixon
Thank you, Lauren. The Word Bank alone is a great story starter!
January 14, 2021 at 10:26 am
Jay
I love the idea of a Word Bank. Thank you for a wonderful post with great ideas.
January 14, 2021 at 10:26 am
Krista Maxwell
What a great way to organize thoughts and ideas! Thanks for sharing!
January 14, 2021 at 10:26 am
nrompella
This pairs well with yesterday’s post. Thanks!
January 14, 2021 at 10:27 am
Barbara Senenman
Fabulous post! I love the idea of writing a list of words you could possibly use and then what do those words make you think/wonder.
January 14, 2021 at 10:27 am
Catherine Lee
Thank you Lauren! I will give that yellow brick road a try!
January 14, 2021 at 10:29 am
Leah Moser
Thank you for the post! I will definitely try this method out.
January 14, 2021 at 10:29 am
Sarah Lynne John
Great idea! It all stems from asking questions, right? I love your Home for a While concept!!
January 14, 2021 at 10:31 am
writersideup
Lauren!!! You had me at “Yellow Brick Road,” but when I checked out your templates, I actually got goosebumps! We are “list/chart/organizing” sisters from another Mister! I LOVE that there were a few I hadn’t yet thought of and am ecSTATic! This post actually PAVES the Yellow Brick Road to a completed book. Thank you SOOoooo much 😀 ❤
January 14, 2021 at 10:32 am
Joan Longstaff
I really enjoyed your posting … although I can’t get the tune out of my head now! If I had ruby red slippers to click, I’d be doing right now. Thank you for sharing.
January 14, 2021 at 10:35 am
Mrs. Vandivier
This is great. I love the list but I love seeing the next step in the process. Sometimes I don’t push further when I should. Thanks for letting us see this process.
January 14, 2021 at 10:36 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Wonderful word banks AND an Elmo GIF – perfection Lauren!
January 14, 2021 at 10:36 am
Michael Sussman
Excellent post, Lauren!
January 14, 2021 at 10:36 am
Janice Woods
Fantastic! Thanks for sharing!
January 14, 2021 at 10:39 am
Valarie Giogas
Very concrete, helpful suggestions. Thank you!!
January 14, 2021 at 10:40 am
Monica A. Harris
Wow! It’s nice to see others have a brain that goes in several directions at once. 🙂
January 14, 2021 at 10:42 am
amomnextdoor
Thank you for your templates!
January 14, 2021 at 10:42 am
Susan Jobsky
I’m not much of a list maker; I write them, grocery lists, chore lists, fun things to do lists, but them I forget to take my list to the store, or get off track and don’t get back on, or forget where I put my list. However, I just might be successful with these word lists because the two lists work together much like a prep assignment for a research paper. I’ll give this activity a shot and see where it leads me.
January 14, 2021 at 10:43 am
Marla Yablon
Great suggestions for not only generating ideas, but adding depth to those you have! Thanks!
January 14, 2021 at 10:46 am
Lauren Barbieri
What a great word bank method! Thank you for the post. Looking forward to reading HOOME FOR A WHILE.
January 14, 2021 at 10:48 am
Jennifer Skene
I’ll take a trip on that yellow brick road, thanks.
January 14, 2021 at 10:49 am
Sarah Tobias
Love this Yellow brick road idea. It’s about opening up to many possibilities not just following the trail of one story.
January 14, 2021 at 10:51 am
Linda KulpTrout
Thank you for the template and the trip on the yellow brick road. Congratulations on your new book. I can’t wait to read it!
January 14, 2021 at 10:52 am
bevbaird
Great post! Love your steps to gathering more ideas and fleshing out the ones we have. Thank you
January 14, 2021 at 10:55 am
martyfindley
Thanks for your template and good ideas. I’m anxious to read your new book when it comes out!
January 14, 2021 at 10:55 am
sharon lane holm
thank you. A new way for me to get more depth into my characters and story. Got to try this method.
January 14, 2021 at 10:56 am
asiqueira1307
An amazing way to find more ideas and layers to your PB. Thanks.
January 14, 2021 at 10:56 am
Kathy Mazurowski
Thank you!
January 14, 2021 at 10:58 am
Gregory E Bray
Thanks for the post.
January 14, 2021 at 10:58 am
Jessica Swaim
Thanks, Lauren! You’ve got me putting on my ruby slippers …
January 14, 2021 at 10:58 am
Lynne Marie
So happy to travel the Yellow Brick Road with you, my friend and CP. May your path always be paved with gold. Lynne Marie
January 14, 2021 at 10:58 am
martyfindley
Thank you for your template and great ideas. I’m anxious to read your new book when it comes out!
January 14, 2021 at 11:01 am
Laurie Bouck
Thank you for sharing your process with us! I’ll have to try following the yellow brick road! 😀
January 14, 2021 at 11:02 am
Sara Habte
Thank you for this! Very practical and inspiring.
January 14, 2021 at 11:05 am
Doreen Tango Hampton
Three of the icons on my computer screen are screen shots of words – obsolete words, funny words and words kids love. Many ideas have started with just one word! Thanks for the post.
January 14, 2021 at 11:06 am
kswemba
I LOVE the idea of making a word bank then following the yellow brick road. Thank you!
January 14, 2021 at 11:08 am
jenlinville2021
A great strategy! Thanks for your post!
January 14, 2021 at 11:08 am
Mackinzie Rekers
This process is FABULOUS. Thanks so much for sharing.
January 14, 2021 at 11:09 am
Hélène Sabourin
I love that idea of going down the yellow brick road and I have a soft spot for squirrels. Great post!
January 14, 2021 at 11:10 am
Meg
Great points and the Storystorm template is really useful – thank you!
January 14, 2021 at 11:13 am
Hollie Wolverton
Lauren always gives such great advice! Thank you!!
January 14, 2021 at 11:14 am
Cheryl Johnson
Absolutely love the Yellow Brick Road analogy! And boy, does that happen. Can’t wait to read your new book.
January 14, 2021 at 11:50 am
Cheryl Johnson
Also, I love your typewriter pencil/pen cup holder! I have the same one.
January 14, 2021 at 11:18 am
Armineh Manookian
Thank you, Lauren! Your strategies and Storystorm template are invaluable.
January 14, 2021 at 11:20 am
R M Miller
Very logical and specific ideas–thank you so much!
January 14, 2021 at 11:21 am
judyrubin13
Thank you, Lauren, the leading us to the Yellow Brick Road for today’s writing adventure.
January 14, 2021 at 11:23 am
Lisa P.
I can’t wait to use this method this weekend; thanks so much! And you can’t beat a ‘Wizard of Oz’ reference; love it!
January 14, 2021 at 11:24 am
Carole Shelton
Thanks for the great tips, Lauren!
January 14, 2021 at 11:25 am
readmybook2002
What a great concept. Thank you for sharing the templates on your author website. I will follow the yellow brick road from now on.
January 14, 2021 at 11:27 am
Sara Trofa
Such an interesting post! Looking at your Storystorm template I discovered the exploding sandwich : > Thanks, Lauren!
January 14, 2021 at 11:30 am
brontebrown2
Making a list is your basket of apples. Sometimes you chew on an idea, sometimes you mull over it, and some ideas are just bad apples, but that is for you to decide. So make a list and get started.
January 14, 2021 at 11:30 am
sareenmclay
I’m all for the layers! Thank you for the inspiration and the template too!
January 14, 2021 at 11:31 am
Joan Swanson
Thank you for your word bank process. Can’t wait to try to develop a picture book manuscript with lists!
January 14, 2021 at 11:31 am
Janie Reinart
Lauren,
Love your strategies. Thank you for templates❤️
January 14, 2021 at 11:34 am
aliciaminor
I will surely follow this process and see where this lead me to. Thanks for sharing. I look forward to reading Home for a while. happy new year.
January 14, 2021 at 11:34 am
Michelle Peterson
Thank you for the advice! I love hearing about the different ways that authors develop their stories and the tools they use to make characters complex and interesting. Can’t wait to read this book!
January 14, 2021 at 11:34 am
Megan M.
I’ve never done a word bank before. But I’m very intrigued because I do love words! Also, thank you for the templates!
January 14, 2021 at 11:35 am
Darcee A. Freier
I love that one of your goals is to “embrace feedback.” That encouragement alone is worth the price of admission! Thanks and congrats on your upcoming book!
January 14, 2021 at 11:35 am
katiemillsgiorgio
Great suggestions…thanks for sharing!
January 14, 2021 at 11:36 am
Susan Claus
The layering idea is splendid. The best picture books are always about more than they’re “about”.
January 14, 2021 at 11:36 am
Kathleen
I love the word bank/yellow brick road idea. That’s a great story-starter tip!
January 14, 2021 at 11:37 am
Renner Writes (@barbararenner)
I love your step by step tips for developing a story, especially the word bank. Thank you so much for the link to your templates – they are gold, and I’ll be able to use everyone one of them.
January 14, 2021 at 11:39 am
Renner Writes (@barbararenner)
Oops, disregard the “everyone one” typo.
January 14, 2021 at 11:38 am
Keeping the Me in Mommy
Your template is intense in a fabulous way. I love and can’t wait to try it out. Thanks for sharing!!
January 14, 2021 at 11:39 am
Cortney Benvenuto
Love this method! Thank you for sharing and for the template!
January 14, 2021 at 11:40 am
Laurie Knowlton
Very interesting way as to how to get an idea growing. Thank you!
January 14, 2021 at 11:44 am
Katie Frawley
I am going to use my idea from yesterday and crank out a word bank. You’re such a smarty!!!
January 14, 2021 at 11:46 am
Andrea Denish
These are wonderful! I’m adding your templates to my toolbox. Thank you!!!
January 14, 2021 at 11:48 am
triciacandy
These list ideas are fabulous. Thank you!
January 14, 2021 at 11:49 am
Garnett Natasha
Congratulations, Lauren, on Home for a While. And thanks for reminder to add layers to story.
January 14, 2021 at 11:50 am
Dee Knabb
Not only a great process but one that’s fun and packed with spin off ideas. Thanks, Lauren. I love it.
January 14, 2021 at 11:50 am
blancamanzanilla
I like the word bank wonder idea – Thank you.
January 14, 2021 at 11:51 am
danielle hammelef
Your word bank idea is excellent and a great way for me to add to my writing treasure of ideas.
January 14, 2021 at 11:52 am
melissaroske
I love this idea, because it can be applied to picture books and MG alike! Hope to win a critique of my picture book and read HOME FOR A WHILE. Thanks so much, Lauren and Tara!
January 14, 2021 at 11:52 am
Maria Oka
Oh, I love the yellow brick road idea! Fabulous.
January 14, 2021 at 11:53 am
Laura Bower
Hi, Lauren! I love the Yellow Brick Road approach. It is really helpful to see it listed out this way. Congratulations on your new book!
January 14, 2021 at 11:56 am
Elizabeth Saba
Thank you Lauren. Great post.
January 14, 2021 at 11:57 am
Jennifer Rathe
Love the word bank idea. So many ideas came from one idea! Cool! Can’t wait to try it!
January 14, 2021 at 11:59 am
suumac
Lauren – thank you for this great, ideation-inspiring little roadmap! Off to see the wizard!:)
January 14, 2021 at 12:00 pm
Susan Twiggs
Working the word bank. I love this idea.
Sue
January 14, 2021 at 12:00 pm
Cheryl
Never know sometimes where the story is going to take us.
January 14, 2021 at 12:00 pm
mooseeggproductions
Great idea!
January 14, 2021 at 12:01 pm
Susan Twiggs
Lauren,
Love your idea.
Sue
January 14, 2021 at 12:03 pm
Carole Calladine
Great way to spark and journey with ideas. Thanks for sharing.
January 14, 2021 at 12:03 pm
Angela De Groot
You are an idea wizard! Thanks for sharing your steps on the Yellow Brick Road. So fun and so clever!
January 14, 2021 at 12:03 pm
Roxanne Troup
Reminds me of those word webs we used to complete in school–only much more pleasant because who likes spiders?!
January 14, 2021 at 12:04 pm
Chelle Martin
Thanks for sharing.
January 14, 2021 at 12:05 pm
mariamarianayagam
Great insight and I love the Wizard of Oz analogy! Thank you.
January 14, 2021 at 12:07 pm
mommamoocow
Thank you for that road map.
January 14, 2021 at 12:07 pm
claudia sloan
Thank you for sharing and congratulations on your new book – can’t wait to see it!
January 14, 2021 at 12:07 pm
Fern Glazer
I read this after having created a word list, something I often do while ideating. I usually use that list to help jumpstart the story or come up with a title. Thanks to you, I’ve got another step to explore, following the yellow brick road. Love it!
January 14, 2021 at 12:07 pm
SSR Bea
Thank you for your insights. Love it!
January 14, 2021 at 12:08 pm
Jessica Potts
Great idea on how to get lots of ideas from one idea!!
January 14, 2021 at 12:09 pm
calliebdean
This idea really resonates with me. I’m starting to find that word banks can be helpful at all stages of the writing process: brainstorming, writing, and revising! Thank you!
January 14, 2021 at 12:10 pm
Tricia Thatcher
Excited to try this strategy!! Thank you 💛
January 14, 2021 at 12:10 pm
mariearden
Your Storystorm template and how-to-use it ideas arrived just in time today for developing an idea that is on my Storystorm list. Thank-you.
January 14, 2021 at 12:16 pm
Kassy Keppol
Thank you, love the templates!
January 14, 2021 at 12:18 pm
Colleen Owen Murphy
I am going to go try to think of a concept and get started on my brainstorming right now – in my handy dandy Storystorm journal that JUST arrived!!
January 14, 2021 at 12:18 pm
Annie War
I think this is a very helpful way of developing the story ideas brainstormed during this month. I hope to use this strategy to help me advance my writing.
January 14, 2021 at 12:19 pm
clairebobrow
So much great info packed into this post. And the template! That is so incredibly useful. Thank you, Lauren, and congrats on your book!!
January 14, 2021 at 12:19 pm
ljh22o
This is a really interesting exercise that I’m going to try right now.
January 14, 2021 at 12:21 pm
heatherbell37
Love this idea of branching off one main idea. This is really cool, thank you for sharing!
January 14, 2021 at 12:22 pm
Cindy S
Some good ideas here.
January 14, 2021 at 12:23 pm
Beth Holladay
Thanks for the helpful tips 🙂
January 14, 2021 at 12:23 pm
matthewlasley
I am going to have to incorporate the word bank with my students. I like the Yellow Brick Road idea. In my class we call it the world of wonder, as in, I wonder….
January 14, 2021 at 12:24 pm
Kelly Jaques
Love this post, Lauren! Thanks for the template!
January 14, 2021 at 12:24 pm
tinamcho
The Yellow Brick Road makes gathering ideas sound so easy! Thank you.
January 14, 2021 at 12:24 pm
bonzerb
Thanks Lauren, I look forward to the new PB! Record or weep is great advice, don’t discount ideas.
January 14, 2021 at 12:26 pm
Maria Altizer
I love the idea of using the spark to generate more ideas. Thank you! Congratulations on your upcoming book. I look forward to reading it.
January 14, 2021 at 12:29 pm
kskeesling
I love the idea of a whole notebook for one story to keep it all organized. Thanks!
January 14, 2021 at 12:30 pm
Joyce
Wonderful, concrete ways to take those sparks further. Fabulous templates. And your book looks so beautiful. Thank you, Lauren!
January 14, 2021 at 12:31 pm
Jose Cruz
Ahh, more lists to fuel the fire of creativity. Thank you! I’ll be honest though: reading this post, I felt a certain stubbornness stir up in me. “A word bank? But didn’t I already write all the words I need in the actual story itself?” But I swallowed my artistic pride and applied this exercise to the MS I’m currently working on. And you know what? There’s a particular magic to jotting down an idea or a detail that you had only alluded to or thought of in your head previously. Even though I *knew*, on some level, that my MS had to do with generosity and trying new things, among other subjects, actually typing those words out solidified the concept that much more for me. It’s like that ancient belief that knowing the name of something gives you power over it. Well, writing down the name of the idea that I was trying to communicate made me feel that much more empowered by it. Just having that “tactile” list for me to refer back to has already helped bring certain things into sharper focus. Thank you again!
January 14, 2021 at 12:32 pm
Bethanny Parker
What a great technique for turning one idea into several.
January 14, 2021 at 12:33 pm
lauriekaiserwrites
Great suggestions. I would love to read your upcoming book and meet Calvin. We need more books about kids in these kind of situations!
In the meantime, I hope to follow your yellow brick road. 🙂
January 14, 2021 at 12:33 pm
andynarwhal
Yellow Brick Road: Why are they yellow? How to they get the gold/yellow paint? Who’s responsible for cleaning it?
January 14, 2021 at 12:35 pm
Daryl Gottier
I love the idea of a word bank to kick off the trip down the yellow brick road. Thanks for sharing!
January 14, 2021 at 12:35 pm
Sheri Radovich
Thank you Lauren. Your website is full of ideas and templates to use when writing. I like this yellow brick road idea and hopefully if I stick with squirrels there won’t be a million of them out there in a few months. I watched two this fall gathering pinecones and taking to a nest for winter but I didn’t have a story idea till now.
January 14, 2021 at 12:37 pm
Roberta Gibson
After reading your incredible post, I realized that when I create a mind map for my story idea I’m really generating a word bank. Then adding layers by asking deeper questions? That’s gold! I’m going to do this with all the ideas I’ve jotted down this month. Thank you.
January 14, 2021 at 12:41 pm
Robin Wiesneth
That was so helpful – thanks!
January 14, 2021 at 12:41 pm
Dawn Prochovnic
Thank you so much for such practical, implementable ways to move our story storm ideas into the next level of story development.
January 14, 2021 at 12:43 pm
marty
Love the templates on your website! Thanks for suggesting the word bank idea. I’ve seen it mentioned before, but never actually put it into practice. Now I’m fired up to try it!
January 14, 2021 at 12:45 pm
marynadoughty
I love your Storystorm template, Lauren! Thanks for sharing that with us!
-Maryna Doughty
January 14, 2021 at 12:46 pm
Emily R. Keener
I love the yellow brick road strategy – thank you!
January 14, 2021 at 12:49 pm
Ellen Leventhal
From one former Jersey Girl to another, thanks so much, Lauren! I love all your ideas, and of course, HOME FOR A WHILE is an amazing story! Thanks, Lauren and Tara!
January 14, 2021 at 12:50 pm
authordebradaugherty
Thanks, Lauren, for the Storystorm template. I loved your word bank idea, and your description on how to follow the Yellow Brick Road. This was a great post.
January 14, 2021 at 12:52 pm
Julia Lyon
At first I was skeptical of your word bank idea, but then I saw where it could lead. Idea generator! Will definitely try it. Thank you!
January 14, 2021 at 12:52 pm
andreesantini
Thanks Lauren, I will try the word bank and yellow brick road ideas, and will also check out your templates. This post was a wealth of inspiration!
January 14, 2021 at 12:53 pm
Patti Ranson
I love the layering focus – thank you!
January 14, 2021 at 12:54 pm
aidantalkin
I love seeing how other people build their stories, fantastic. And what a neat template you provide to dive deeper into our story sparks, thanks!
January 14, 2021 at 12:54 pm
Sue
I love that you have a creative process. Even better, you named it the Yellow Brick Road!! This post is a keeper! Thanks for sharing!!
January 14, 2021 at 12:57 pm
danielledufayet
Such a helpful post -one can never go wrong following the yellow brick road! Thank you and congrats!
January 14, 2021 at 1:00 pm
Becky Ross Michael
Great ideas and reminders! I used word banks with my students but for some reason never thought to use them in my own writing!
January 14, 2021 at 1:01 pm
Cathy Ogren
Lauren, I love your ideas for following the yellow brick road! Thanks for sharing!
January 14, 2021 at 1:01 pm
Krysta Zeiset
I’ve never tried using a word bank before. I can’t wait to put it to use!
January 14, 2021 at 1:02 pm
Lydia Loeber
Such a clever idea and makes so much sense I can’t believe I have never done it like this before. Thank you for sharing 😁
January 14, 2021 at 1:04 pm
annette schottenfeld
Lauren – from one “Jersey” girl to another, thank you for your inspiration. I had a story idea this morning and I’m trying out your method. Thank you!
January 14, 2021 at 1:05 pm
Penelope McNally
Thanks for the helpful post – I can already tell this is going to help with…SPARKS! Love the word bank idea. Also thanks for the link to your Story Storm template. I’m looking forward to reading Home For A While!
January 14, 2021 at 1:08 pm
Debra Katz
Great post – and the link to the author’s storystorm template provides even more great information. Thank you!
January 14, 2021 at 1:09 pm
vgraboski61gmailcom
Thank you for the great post Lauren! I can’t wait to read your new book. I’m also a mental health therapist and writer, so very anxious to see how you tackled the topic of foster care, etc.
January 14, 2021 at 1:09 pm
Susan
Another great reason to follow the yellow brook road. Thanks for the inspiration, Lauren.
January 14, 2021 at 1:19 pm
Joanne Roberts
This was a profitable exercise and a new way of looking at things during the idea stage. Thank-you. (I love the ideas I generated through your YBR activity!!!!!!!)
January 14, 2021 at 1:19 pm
authoraileenstewart
Love the word bank idea. I’ve never tried that. Thanks for joining Story Storm!
January 14, 2021 at 1:22 pm
Peggy Dobbs
What a great post! I love the peanut-butter-and-jelly-eating squirrel. So many story ideas from one. This will be a very productive strategy to use. Thank you!
January 14, 2021 at 1:22 pm
ramonapersaudwrites
Lauren, thanks for the templates. I’m excited to play with my idea nuggets.
January 14, 2021 at 1:22 pm
Angie
Love this strategy! It’s just perfect for exploring that yellow brick road. Thank you! Congrats on your new book!
January 14, 2021 at 1:22 pm
Mary Jo Wagner
Lauren! You combined two of my favorite things: ideas and lists. Thank you! 🙂
January 14, 2021 at 1:23 pm
Krissy
Great storystorm exercise ! Love the storystorm mug too!!! great post. I will try to follow the yellow brick road!
January 14, 2021 at 1:25 pm
Sue Heavenrich
Word banks are fun. Great ideas, thanks. But now I’ve got “follow the yellow brick road” earworming its way through my brain!
January 14, 2021 at 1:26 pm
jacquelineflesher
This post came at such a perfect time! I was brainstorming for a new manuscript I’ve thought about writing a dozen times. Your strategy is already helping me get the creative juices flowing. Thank you! And, I second Mary Jo. Ideas + lists = <3!!!
January 14, 2021 at 1:30 pm
Michelle Ramirez
Great strategy!
January 14, 2021 at 1:31 pm
tasha woodson
such a wonderful way to organize all those random Roman candles shooting off in my head. thank you for sharing!
January 14, 2021 at 1:32 pm
Brenda Flowers
Lauren, thanks for a very helpful post. I will be referring back to it and to the template. Your writing goals are so important! I look forward to reading HOME FOR A WHILE and sharing it with a young man we fostered when he was a teen so he may in turn share it with his young family.
January 14, 2021 at 1:34 pm
Sarah Skolfield
Thanks for sharing your template. I like lists, too. And the word bank is a great way to spark new ideas.
January 14, 2021 at 1:37 pm
Lori Shapiro
Lauren,
Thank you for this unique approach to building a story while generating new ideas! And…those templates on your website are mind blowing!! They’re wonderful and so very helpful. Thank you for sharing your ideas and wisdom with us!
January 14, 2021 at 1:37 pm
Jill Lambert (@LJillLambert)
Thanks for an inspiring post, Lauren! I’m definitely going to use the word bank idea and template.
January 14, 2021 at 1:43 pm
Elyse Trevers
I made my list ( checked it twice-oops -different song). Lots of cool ideas. Nice different approach
January 14, 2021 at 1:46 pm
Aundra Tomlins
OMG! Your templates are amazing. Thank you for sharing. I love the idea that a word can be your inspiration and you just “follow the yellow brick road” to the exploding sandwich! That sounds like a picture book all on its own!
January 14, 2021 at 1:47 pm
Amy Bradshaw (@arkamyb)
Thank you for sharing your tools for success! Those templates on your web site are most helpful!
January 14, 2021 at 1:47 pm
Tina
Thank you Lauren and Tara!
Such great examples of one form of inspiration leading to another- very creative processes to help- thanks!
You book sounds wonderful to help kids and adults!
Take care and Happy new year to you both! Tina
January 14, 2021 at 1:48 pm
Heather Rowley
I love this template! Thanks for sharing this method and for your amazing talents!
January 14, 2021 at 1:50 pm
paulaobering
Love this idea. It’s really actionable!
January 14, 2021 at 1:51 pm
Shannon Hitchcock (@ShanonHitchcock)
I like this follow the yellow brick road method. I can see it generating lots of ideas. Thanks!
January 14, 2021 at 1:52 pm
kmajor2013
I enjoyed your post, Lauren. Using word banks is a great way to generate story ideas and layers, for sure.Thanks.
January 14, 2021 at 1:52 pm
Kaye Wright
This is gold! Thank you for your advice!
January 14, 2021 at 1:53 pm
Kimberly Hutmacher
Love the word bank and all of the good story starters that it produced. Great idea!
January 14, 2021 at 1:53 pm
Pamela Haskin
What a great post! Love the idea of following idea where ever they lead. No telling what fun places we might go. Thanks for sharing.
January 14, 2021 at 1:54 pm
Amy Cory
Thank you, Lauren! This is an amazing way to generate ideas and I can’t wait to try it!
January 14, 2021 at 1:57 pm
Aimee Satterlee
I love the idea of following the yellow brick road! Thanks also for your template, Lauren!
January 14, 2021 at 2:01 pm
tpierce
Love this concept, Lauren. A great way to dig deeper! Congratulations!
January 14, 2021 at 2:01 pm
Lydia Lukidis
Great template, and a great way to generate even more ideas!
January 14, 2021 at 2:02 pm
cpellettiere
Great tip for ideation! Also – as an adoptive mom I love having foster care as a theme. Showing kids all the different paths to family is wonderful.
January 14, 2021 at 2:04 pm
Michele Ziemke
I love the yellow brick road! Can’t wait to see where it leads today!
January 14, 2021 at 2:04 pm
rindabeach
Who knew following the Yellow Brick Road could be part of my search for new ideas.
January 14, 2021 at 2:05 pm
Lori Sheroan
I can’t wait to try the Word Bank idea!
January 14, 2021 at 2:07 pm
Dream Read Wonder
Thanks! I like the idea of taking one concept and asking questions. It feels scientific.
January 14, 2021 at 2:09 pm
Elizabeth Muster
Thank you for sharing these steps!
January 14, 2021 at 2:09 pm
curryelizabeth
Great tips on diving deeper to see different possibilities of where your ideas can go! Thanks Lauren and congratulations!
January 14, 2021 at 2:09 pm
Alicia Shawn Gagnon
Wow. Thanks for sharing your numerous templates on your website. And who doesn’t giggle 🙂 when Elmo dances! Peace, A
January 14, 2021 at 2:17 pm
Claire A. B. Freeland
“The other thing to keep in mind is that following the Yellow Brick Road not only leads to new ideas, it can also help you add layers to your manuscript.” Thanks for that reminder!
January 14, 2021 at 2:19 pm
Judy Sobanski
Taking ideas farther down the yellow brick road is a great way to flesh them out to see what works!
January 14, 2021 at 2:20 pm
David McMullin
Lauren, what a great way to move forward with ideas.Thanks!
January 14, 2021 at 2:20 pm
Sara Weingartner (@SJWeingartner)
Thanks for your awesome post. I love the Word Bank approach. Will definitely try. Congrats on your upcoming book!
January 14, 2021 at 2:24 pm
Hank Dallago
Lauren, I loved your example of the Yellow Brick Road and will use that to flush-out the golden nuggets of choice words to be used in my stories. Thanks a bunch!
January 14, 2021 at 2:32 pm
Rebecca E Guzinski
Thanks for the yellow brick road approach to writing stories.
January 14, 2021 at 2:27 pm
dedra davis
This is such a great idea! I do a word bank with associated words for all my stories, but that is to put those words IN my story. I never thought about using a word bank to go in different directions with story inspiration! Thank you!!
January 14, 2021 at 2:31 pm
Babs Ostapina
This is brilliant, Lauren! Love the Word Bank idea. And thanks for generously sharing your templates. Congrats on your new PB.
January 14, 2021 at 2:33 pm
yvonne pearson
I’m looking forward to reading Home for Awhile.
January 14, 2021 at 2:36 pm
srkckass
I love your stepwise process. I’m definitely going to try out your word bank and yellow brick road. Thanks so much!
January 14, 2021 at 2:41 pm
Poupette
What a fabulous exercise for moving forward after that
initial SPARK –thanks!
January 14, 2021 at 2:41 pm
Sharon Coffey
Lauren,
The Yellow Brick Road is genius. Did you come up with that? I am excited to incorporate that ASAP. Thank you for sharing this awesome way to generate ideas.
January 14, 2021 at 2:43 pm
annettepimentel
Your template is amazing. Thank you!
January 14, 2021 at 2:45 pm
marshaelyn
Lauren, your step-by-step brainstorming path will help focus our imaginations. As we “storystorm,” sometimes creativity sparks like sparklers. Ideas light up and fizzle out before we’re able to flush out a solid idea. I appreciate your work in designing the Storystorm template. I’ve downloaded and printed copies as I get set to stir up ideas. Bravo for your upcoming books! Sending you energy and inspiration for your continued journey…
January 14, 2021 at 2:49 pm
CindyC
Great step-by-step inspiration! And thanks for the templates, Lauren.
January 14, 2021 at 2:51 pm
Suzanne Alexander
Thank you, Lauren, for the suggestion of the word bank and then taking those words to follow the Yellow Brick Road into story ideas. I look forward to trying this out.
January 14, 2021 at 2:51 pm
Catherine Brewer
I absolutely love the WORD BANK WONDER, great idea! Thank you Lauren!
January 14, 2021 at 2:52 pm
Shaunda Wenger
What a great set of tools to use in fleshing out an idea for a picture book. I’ve never tried this and have never seen it. Thank you for the example of showing how it’s applied.
January 14, 2021 at 2:53 pm
katiefischerwrites
I love the concept of brainstorming off of a word bank!
January 14, 2021 at 2:55 pm
Sherry Smith
great idea about building a story. So glad someone who is a social worker wrote a PB about a foster child.
January 14, 2021 at 2:57 pm
Beatrice Brown
As I read your post, ideas started flowing. Great strategy. Need to run! Gotta catch up with my ideas on the yellow brick road. Toodles.
January 14, 2021 at 2:58 pm
Joni Hay Patras
Lauren, thanks for sharing your approach and for the templates. Congrats on your new book– I love Magination Books! (My background is in school counseling.)
January 14, 2021 at 3:03 pm
Linda Hofke
I like how you started with one idea and then branched out into many different ideas and then kept going. This is an great technique for brainstorming before picking an idea to flesh out. I love it. Thank, Lauren.
January 14, 2021 at 3:08 pm
gmv246
Interesting! I will give it a shot.
January 14, 2021 at 3:08 pm
Marie
I love how you came up with such good questions just from your word bank. Your new book, Home for a While, sounds wonderful, as I have not seen many picture books addressing coping skills for kids while in foster care. As an adoptive mom, I am eager to share your book with the families in my post-adoption and foster care support group. Thank you for writing it!
January 14, 2021 at 3:09 pm
Amanda
Love that idea of adding layers. Feelings can be complicated.
January 14, 2021 at 3:12 pm
Kate Carroll
Lauren, you are the wonderful wizard of ideas! Great post that took me to unique thoughts for some of my projects. Thanks for the inspiration.
January 14, 2021 at 3:15 pm
Jilanne Hoffmann
Love your Yellow Brick Road approach! So many metaphors for the idea-generation process. And now I must say that I’ll have an earworm for the rest of the day, LOL.
January 14, 2021 at 3:15 pm
jensubra
Love this concrete format for adding layers to a story–very helpful!
January 14, 2021 at 3:17 pm
BONNIE AUSLANDER
Who put the ape in apricot? What has he got that I ain’t got? Seriously, this is a fun brainstorming approach–thank you!
January 14, 2021 at 3:29 pm
Brian Yanish
I love this process. Thank you Lauren!
January 14, 2021 at 3:32 pm
Cindy
What a great way to build on ideas!
January 14, 2021 at 3:37 pm
lisakhan9
Great advice, thank you for the fantastic post! ‘Follow the Yellow Brick Road’ can’t wait 🤗 best wishes x
January 14, 2021 at 3:39 pm
Faith Pray
I love the way you’ve put this. It’s such a helpful way to organize ideas while hunting for stories. Thank you!
January 14, 2021 at 3:45 pm
Eileen Mayo
I love this fun way to generate ideas! I’m going to try the word bank with my newest idea. Thank Lauren!
January 14, 2021 at 3:46 pm
babybluesnowflake
Wow, thank you, Lauren! You just shared yet another fantastic method—the yellow-brick-road method—for harvesting story ideas!
January 14, 2021 at 3:52 pm
Sylvia Mary Grech
Thank you Lauren! Great advice!
January 14, 2021 at 3:54 pm
Genevieve Petrillo
I love that your yellow brick road went to squirrels. I like squirrels. Once when I tried to catch one, I realized that doggies can’t climb trees. #imaginethat
Love and licks,
Cupcake
January 14, 2021 at 3:57 pm
Anne C. Bromley
Thank you, Lauren. I love the word bank idea! Good suggestions.
January 14, 2021 at 3:58 pm
Carrie Tillotson
Thanks for taking us along on the Yellow Brick Road, and for your awesome Storystorm template!
January 14, 2021 at 3:59 pm
Amy H
Thanks for your thoughts. I think your templates are great. Thanks for sharing!
January 14, 2021 at 3:59 pm
Lydia Leimbach
Can’t wait to try this technique- and grab a copy of your book. I have nephews adopted out of foster care.
January 14, 2021 at 4:01 pm
Amy Grover
Thanks, Lauren! I appreciate the example of how one idea can expand into many!
January 14, 2021 at 4:04 pm
jbbower
Thank you Lauren. I really like the template idea and will indeed take a trip along the yellow brick road!
January 14, 2021 at 4:10 pm
Elizabeth Duncan
Thanks for the great advice. I enjoyed looking at your website and appreciated the template.
January 14, 2021 at 4:10 pm
Jana Mattern
I love this method of generating ideas! And congrats on your new book. It sounds wonderful!
January 14, 2021 at 4:11 pm
Lori Dubbin
Lauren, you’re a wiz at fleshing out story ideas. Thank you for showing how you add layers, for your Storystorm template, and for your beautiful new book, Home for a While ❤
January 14, 2021 at 4:11 pm
Marlena Leach
I love this idea. I do use the template. I feel like I have accomplished something when I follow through with a method and end up with a fabulous idea to put in my stash. Thank, Lauren.
January 14, 2021 at 4:12 pm
Laurel Ranveig Abell
This is a fantastic idea!! Thanks and I’m off to see the wizard!
January 14, 2021 at 4:12 pm
Amanda Malek-Ahmadi
OMGOODNESS The Yellow Brock Road is an amazing strategy! Thank you for sharing this. Best of luck with your new book launching.
January 14, 2021 at 4:15 pm
Katie Williams
Love these concrete ideas on how to generate plots and take them wherever the road leads! Thank you for sharing your process : )
January 14, 2021 at 4:25 pm
Karen Pickrell
What a timely story! Congratulations! Can’t wait to read it! Thank you for sharing your steps for creating story ideas!
January 14, 2021 at 4:25 pm
susaninez0905
Thank you for sharing this. A wonderful way to let your ideas flow and find your groove. 🙂
January 14, 2021 at 4:27 pm
Bonnie Kelso
Thank you, Lauren! I can’t wait to make my own way along the yellow brick road! 🙂
January 14, 2021 at 4:29 pm
Debi Novotny
I love the step by step instructions on how to follow the yellow brick road, and thank you for providing such great writing resources on your website!
January 14, 2021 at 4:30 pm
debobrienbookscom
Oooh, word banks. What a great idea. Thank you, Lauren.
January 14, 2021 at 4:31 pm
amckelle
I’m excited to try this yellow brick road strategy and see where my initial idea might take me. And I can’t wait for your upcoming book. We adopted our little boy through Foster Care and your book sounds so meaningful. Thank you!
January 14, 2021 at 4:32 pm
Dayne Sislen, Children's Book Illustrator
Thank you, a great way to let your mind wander and find new direction.
January 14, 2021 at 4:32 pm
Janet Sheets
I love creating word banks, so this way of generating ideas sounds really fun! Thank you.
January 14, 2021 at 4:34 pm
Kellie
Never have I thought of creating a word bank before I write … that suggestion alone makes this post gold for me (then there’s your other suggestions – and the template). Thank you so much.
January 14, 2021 at 4:36 pm
Thelia Hutchinson
Thank you Lauren. I appreciate your advice. I know that every idea may not be a story, every idea deserves a chance. You never know.
January 14, 2021 at 4:44 pm
marty
Oh great Empress of Templates Lauren, I want to thank you for giving us the royal treatment! Looking at the blank templates on your blog post is an amazing journey into the ways you get ready to write a picture book. It’s inspirational, not to mention just plain fun to check them out. There are ways to define character, directions to take the plot, and prompts to help with decision making while brainstorming. I love that picture book author support tracking page! Genius! Thank you so much for generously offering these frameworks. Happy book-to-be in February!
January 14, 2021 at 4:51 pm
Carol Porter- Porter
I love this “yellow brick road” idea. I think it is one I can really use to keep my brain going in the right direction. I find walking a great way to think through my ideas, but living in Buffalo, pretty much takes that away from me for the winter. I think this might be just what I need.
January 14, 2021 at 5:00 pm
Laura De La Cruz
Thanks for the inspiration, Lauren! I checked out your website and found a few other gems. Thanks!
January 14, 2021 at 5:04 pm
Rebekah Lowell
Love word banks! Thanks for sharing!
January 14, 2021 at 5:05 pm
Heather Stigall
Great tips! Thank you!
January 14, 2021 at 5:13 pm
Dawn M.
Thanks for sharing!
January 14, 2021 at 5:14 pm
Karen Greenwald
Great “steps” to take down that yellow brick road! Thanks so much, Lauren. Congrats on another fantastic-sounding book!
January 14, 2021 at 5:15 pm
DaNeil Olson
Oooh, amazing suggestions! Thank you.
January 14, 2021 at 5:15 pm
Lisa Billa
Thanks for a great post! I love the example of how one idea branches into many more. I’m looking forward to your new book- as a social worker I’ve worked with many kids in foster care, and there’s such a need for this!
January 14, 2021 at 5:15 pm
Mary Warth
Thanks Lauren for the next level of brainstorming lists! Congratulations on your book, it sounds great.
January 14, 2021 at 5:16 pm
Susan Eyerman
Love this column. It is a keeper!!! Thank you
January 14, 2021 at 5:17 pm
Susan Ahearn-Pierce
Lauren, I love this way of coming up with story ideas! Thanks!
January 14, 2021 at 5:19 pm
Sarah Meade
Love this post and the concept of following the yellow brick road. Thank you, Lauren!
January 14, 2021 at 5:20 pm
NC Karuzis
What a great idea. I love the thought process – going to give this a try today.
January 14, 2021 at 5:21 pm
boardmancamera
What a fun theme and way to generate ideas! Thanks for this tool!
January 14, 2021 at 5:22 pm
Stephanie Gibeault
Thank you, Lauren! Your Storystorm template is amazing. And so is your idea for a word bank. I can’t wait to try them out!
January 14, 2021 at 5:22 pm
claireannette1
An idea can go in so many directions. Thanks for leading us down the yellow brick road.
January 14, 2021 at 5:28 pm
Stephen S. Martin
My Word Bank is earning interest every day.
January 14, 2021 at 5:28 pm
savannahpalma
Thank you for sharing.
January 14, 2021 at 5:28 pm
Jennifer Raudenbush
I’m going to try your ideas 🙂 .
January 14, 2021 at 5:31 pm
Mary Ann Blair
Thank you! I am going to try your word bank suggestion. Great idea! Congrats on your new book!
January 14, 2021 at 5:31 pm
Melissa Koch
I love the idea of following the yellow brick road of ideas. Thanks!
January 14, 2021 at 5:32 pm
Kristin Sawyer
Thank you for sharing your template and many helpful suggestions.
January 14, 2021 at 5:33 pm
Brandy Dixon
Love it! A simple, yet effective exercise. Thanks!
January 14, 2021 at 5:33 pm
chardixon47
Congratulations Lauren! What a fun post following you down the yellow brick road to ideas and layers! I’m looking forward to reading your story 🙂
January 14, 2021 at 5:39 pm
Michele Rietz
I love the Wizard of Oz and love that you tied it into idea creation/exploration! Thanks for the steps and congrats on your new story. 🙂
January 14, 2021 at 5:42 pm
PATRICIA OPPENHEIM
I am a Child Psychologist and also interested in picture books dealing with emotions and social skills. Thanks for the tips to help generate ideas!
January 14, 2021 at 5:43 pm
Stephanie Wildman
Congratulations on your latest books and thanks for the inspiration. Special thanks for all the templates on your website – what a treasure trove. See you on twitter.
January 14, 2021 at 5:45 pm
Maria Marshall
Lauren, this is such a great way to look for/find layers within an idea. Such a great template, too. Thank for such a great post and an avalanche of ideas today! Can’t wait to meet Calvin!
January 14, 2021 at 5:50 pm
Jen Helwig
Wow, look how many more ideas you were able to come up with using this exercise! I love this method- thanks for sharing it. Congratulations on your new book!
January 14, 2021 at 5:54 pm
sherry fellores
I love the yellow brick road approach! Thanks for sharing, Lauren!
January 14, 2021 at 5:55 pm
Tania
FABULOUS!
January 14, 2021 at 6:06 pm
Marilyn Wolpin
I am so going to follow the Yellow Brick Road. I might even sing while I’m doing it. Can’t wait to read your books even if I don’t win one! Thanks for the template(s). (I went to your website and grabbed a few more.)
January 14, 2021 at 6:08 pm
Jennifer Weisse
So interesting and a great way to generate multiple story ideas. Thank you!
January 14, 2021 at 6:12 pm
Aly Kenna
Thank you Lauren, loved the Yellow Brick road approach. It’s something I have to remind myself to do sometimes especially when I see a deadline looming. Great templates too. Thank you for sharing them.
January 14, 2021 at 6:16 pm
LenoraBiemans (@BiemansLenora)
Thanks for sharing your darling process! I’m excited to meet Calvin (and congratulations!).
January 14, 2021 at 6:22 pm
Laurel Santini
Thanks so much!
January 14, 2021 at 6:27 pm
Linda Schueler
Great exercise. Thanks!
January 14, 2021 at 6:29 pm
Kay
Great idea thanks for sharing
January 14, 2021 at 6:30 pm
Jessica Pilarski
Love this!! Thanks!
January 14, 2021 at 6:33 pm
Carolyn Bennett Fraiser
So much fun to see how one idea leads to another idea and then another and another and another! Thanks!
January 14, 2021 at 6:34 pm
Gabi Snyder
I love the road analogy with one idea leading to another. And your StoryStorm template is fabulous — thank you!
January 14, 2021 at 6:35 pm
YauMei Chiang
Lauren, I like the idea of the yellow brick road for Story Storm. Thank you.
January 14, 2021 at 6:46 pm
Jill Friestad-Tate
Thanks for the specific process to generate ideas!
January 14, 2021 at 6:47 pm
viviankirkfield
Love your word bank!!!! In a nonfiction pb writing class, the teacher always emphasized the importance of those special words that can add so much to the flavor of the story. And I’m adding your word bank idea to my picture book toolbox. Thank you for a great post!!!!
January 14, 2021 at 6:47 pm
Dannielle Viera
The Yellow Brick Road concept for generating ideas is excellent! Thanks, Lauren!
January 14, 2021 at 6:56 pm
Melanie Ellsworth
Thanks for sharing your idea-generating process, Lauren. I am so excited to read your book, Home for a While – a much needed picture book!
January 14, 2021 at 6:58 pm
Christine M Irvin
Ta ta! I’m off to see the wizard!!
January 14, 2021 at 7:03 pm
JEN Garrett
Hey, wait that’s how I do it!
Scarecrow? Lion? Gasp – Dorothy is that YOU?
January 14, 2021 at 7:04 pm
Rona Shirdan
Great process, Lauren! Thanks for sharing.
January 14, 2021 at 7:07 pm
lisanevada
I love the idea of using the YBR to add layers! Congrats on Home for a While!
January 14, 2021 at 7:08 pm
maureenegan
Lions and tigers and bears, oh my! Thanks for this!
January 14, 2021 at 7:09 pm
Karin Larson
Love this post, thanks so much. Terrific advice!
January 14, 2021 at 7:09 pm
mandyyokim
I love this Yellow Brick Road approach to fleshing out ideas, Lauren. Thank you! Also, I appreciate the template to help me get it all down on paper and out of my head.
January 14, 2021 at 7:15 pm
Pamela Brunskill
OMG–LOVE all of your templates on your site! Thanks for sharing. Congrats on your publications, and good luck on your upcoming book launches!
January 14, 2021 at 7:18 pm
Charlotte Offsay
Love this idea generation exercise! Thank you and can’t wait to get my copy of Home for A While!!
January 14, 2021 at 7:22 pm
Stephanie Jones
I love the yellow brick road!! It gives a form to stream of consciousness and is such a great idea generator!!
January 14, 2021 at 7:24 pm
heidikyates
Thank you for sharing the great advice, Lauren!
January 14, 2021 at 7:26 pm
58chilihed13
Love that you “keep Dragons” I love dragons…the ones in my head, heart and home are many and mighty and meek and mild and fine and wild…Thanks!
January 14, 2021 at 7:30 pm
Shannon Fossett
Thank you for sharing! I’m excited to wander down the yellow brick road and your website with all of the templates is a huge bonus! Thanks again!
January 14, 2021 at 7:34 pm
John McGranaghan
Thanks so much for sharing this story generating idea and all the resources on your website. I love how your Rosie & Charlie books take universal kid centered themes and put a new twist on them. Can’t wait to read your new book.
January 14, 2021 at 7:42 pm
Michelle Losardo
Thanks Lauren! It is so true how one idea can spark so many more. The templates you linked are incredibly helpful as well!
January 14, 2021 at 7:42 pm
kathydoherty1
Yay, Lauren! Your book is lovely.
January 14, 2021 at 7:44 pm
Melissa Trempe is querying (@melissa_trempe)
I love your Yellow Brick Road theory and the fact that you have a notebook JUST for fleshing out new ideas. I’m going to do the same. Currently I have notes for ideas sprinkled in with conference/webinar notebooks. Thanks for the tips!
January 14, 2021 at 7:56 pm
streetlynn
Thanks for the yellow brick road analogy, and congratulations on your book! Lynn Street
January 14, 2021 at 8:02 pm
Sarah Stuart
Wonderful strategy! Thank you. I’m going to try it out right away.
January 14, 2021 at 8:08 pm
Mel H.
I love the idea of following the yellow brick road to find out more about a spark and the direction it could take. Thank you for the templates and sound writing advice.
January 14, 2021 at 8:08 pm
Lyn Miller-Lachmann
Great suggestions and strategies! Thank you for sharing them!
January 14, 2021 at 8:13 pm
Karen Pickrell
What a timely book! Congratulations! Thank you for sharing your steps for finding story ideas.
January 14, 2021 at 8:22 pm
writeremmcbride
Layers in the story are very important! Thank you for mentioning that, Lauren! Your templates are very helpful and a generous thing for you to offer. Thank you!
January 14, 2021 at 8:22 pm
Gail Aherne
Thanks for the fantastic post, Lauren! It is incredibly helpful. I appreciate the template links and, of course, Once a Jersey Girl, Always a Jersey Girl!
January 14, 2021 at 8:24 pm
Laurel Goodluck
I see lists and templates in my dreams, so your resources are an inspiration! I look forward to your important book, congrats!
January 14, 2021 at 8:28 pm
Rathi
Thanks for the great advice! I can’t wait to meet Calvin. Good luck!
January 14, 2021 at 8:39 pm
Diane O'Neill
Thanks so much for sharing this strategy! I love it–spark, word bank wonder, yellow brick road. I’m excited to try it! Thank you!
January 14, 2021 at 8:47 pm
Kristen Tipman
I love this! Such a great brainstorming technique. Thanks for sharing. I’m off the follow the yellow brick road! 🙂
January 14, 2021 at 8:48 pm
Patricia Holloway
Thank you for sharing this creative process for delving into an idea! Also the templates you have shares are super helpful!
January 14, 2021 at 8:52 pm
angiecal76
Thank you for your tips on generating new story ideas. I can’t wait to read your latest book (Calvin is adorable).
January 14, 2021 at 8:53 pm
EllenB
Thank you for the inspiration and examples! I can’t wait to use the storystorm template.
January 14, 2021 at 8:53 pm
Kaye Baillie
Love this idea of generating story ideas. Thanks, Lauren.
January 14, 2021 at 8:54 pm
Mary York
Lauren, Can’t wait to read your latest book. THANK YOU for the templates!
January 14, 2021 at 8:57 pm
Melissa Warren
I love the yellow brick road idea and the word Bank. Thanks for the ideas!
January 14, 2021 at 8:57 pm
horsewriterlady
Thank you for your inspiration for writing and tips! Congrats on your new book! I can’t wait to read it!
January 14, 2021 at 9:05 pm
Lori Gibson
This is so helpful for someone just starring out. Thank you!
January 14, 2021 at 9:08 pm
Manju Beth Howard (@ManjuBeth)
Hi Lauren, Fun post! I look forward to reading your new PB.
January 14, 2021 at 9:17 pm
Carol Gwin Nelson
I hadn’t thought of coming up with the words before I began writing. This is a great way to brainstorm. Thanks!
January 14, 2021 at 9:17 pm
goodreadswithronna
I really like your word bank . It’s nonpressureful (made up word) and can really spark myriad new ideas. Thank you.
January 14, 2021 at 9:19 pm
Jan Milusich
Love the yellow brick road metaphor! I’m on it!
January 14, 2021 at 9:29 pm
@taotalley
Thanks Laura, for the template and practical way to build layers, brick by brick. I look forward to reading your books!
January 14, 2021 at 9:29 pm
acottykid
Thank you for sharing.
January 14, 2021 at 9:43 pm
rosihollinbeck
Thanks for the template. It seems like it will be very helpful. Thanks for an inspiring post. Nice to see you here.
January 14, 2021 at 9:44 pm
Michelle S. Kennedy (@MichelleSKenned)
This is wonderful! ❤
January 14, 2021 at 9:47 pm
dazzlengsy
Yellow brick road is a lovely mental exercise! Thank you, Lauren. Excited to try it!
January 14, 2021 at 9:50 pm
Shirley
What a great way to develop ideas. Thanks for your post.
January 14, 2021 at 9:52 pm
Kris H
Thank you for the ideas for organizing.
January 14, 2021 at 9:53 pm
Kris H
Thank you for the templates.
January 14, 2021 at 9:59 pm
Bhandi
These are good writing activities that I HAVEN”T DONE YET and need to waaaaah
January 14, 2021 at 10:02 pm
Deborah W. Trotter
I love The Wizard of Oz, so thanks for linking your really helpful writing suggestions to the the yellow brick road. 🙂
January 14, 2021 at 10:06 pm
jenfierjasinski
Great model and template. Thanks for sharing the resources! Clicking my heels together and diving into brainstorm mode…
January 14, 2021 at 10:12 pm
Brian Burak
This might be my favorite idea yet. Simple and elegant. A great idea creator. Thank you!!
January 14, 2021 at 10:15 pm
ofmariaantonia
Love this! I never thought of brainstorming quite in this way. 🙂 (Bonus: You can sing the song while you’re making your list.)
January 14, 2021 at 10:17 pm
writeknit
Great post! I’d write more, but I’m off to see the wizard!
January 14, 2021 at 10:19 pm
Susan Wroble
Follow, follow, follow, follow… to whatever ideas it may lead you to. Loved the idea of using these lead for both adding layers to the story AND for inspiration for new stories. Thanks!
January 14, 2021 at 10:19 pm
EmmieRWerner
❤️ touch children’s hearts!
January 14, 2021 at 10:22 pm
crdram12
This was so helpful–thank you! I followed the Yellow Brick Road today and got a bunch of new ideas!
January 14, 2021 at 10:27 pm
Lindsey Hobson
This is great, thank you! I can’t wait to try following the yellow brick road!
January 14, 2021 at 10:29 pm
roberta abussi
Thank you for this post. This is a new and fresh take on brainstorming, that I have never considered before. I am used to lists…tons of lists (which I still like) and branching out from those lists to create new ones until I find THE idea…but I will definitely try this new way and see where it takes me 🙂
January 14, 2021 at 10:35 pm
nicolesalterbraun
Love it! Definitely going to try this technique!
January 14, 2021 at 10:37 pm
Krista Harrington
Lauren,
Thank you for the great suggestions. I can’t wait to read your new book,
Home For a While!
January 14, 2021 at 10:39 pm
LeeAnn Rizzuti
If I only had a brain . . . Oops, wrong song!😜 Guess I took a detour but maybe that’s just another way to explore my yellow brick road????
January 14, 2021 at 10:50 pm
Nadine Poper
Thank you!
January 14, 2021 at 10:54 pm
Jennifer Phillips
Love your creativity combined with a structured approach. And appreciate you sharing your template!
January 14, 2021 at 11:03 pm
Diane Kress Hower
Thanks for sharing your process!
January 14, 2021 at 11:03 pm
Brinton Culp
I will try to follow that yellow brick road, but I have to admit I’m likely to end up taking a nap in the poppy fields. But that might lead to some good ideas too. Thanks for the inspiration!
January 14, 2021 at 11:07 pm
Buffy Silverman
Great sparks–thank you!
January 14, 2021 at 11:17 pm
Ashley Congdon (@AshleySierra06)
Thanks for the new strategy!
January 14, 2021 at 11:19 pm
Lindsey
Yes! I totally do this and then feel bad for doing it because I “wasted” the tome I was “supposed to be writing” Ha! Thanks for the encouragement and the validation!
January 14, 2021 at 11:24 pm
Cindy Jeklin
Thanks so much Lauren. These are excellent tips. Looking forward to trying them out.
January 14, 2021 at 11:33 pm
Natalie Lynn Tanner
LAUREN: THANK YOU for the INSPIRATION! Going step-by-step through the exercise you provided, I feel like you took us each by the hand and walked with us down that Yellow Brick Road. THANK YOU for showing us the way! I also appreciate the reminder to look for multiple layers of each these GOLDEN roads. WOW! SO MANY POSSIBILITIES AWAIT US on our journey of discovering the HEART of each of our stories! I CAN’T WAIT to take the hand of each of my readers, to lead them along the Yellow Brick Roads of my creation, TOO! LOVE IT!!! THANK YOU!!! I am SO LOOKING FORWARD to meeting Calvin in “Home for a While.” THANK YOU for bringing awareness to the important topic of foster care. And THANK YOU for being our guide along the Yellow Brick Road—OH, and for getting a CERTAIN song STUCK in my head! HE!HE!HE!
January 14, 2021 at 11:36 pm
storiesbythesea
Brilliant idea!! Thank you! Must put a shower friendly note pad in ASAP! 🙂
January 14, 2021 at 11:54 pm
betlw
Lauren, I loved your Yellow Brick Road way of getting new ideas. I can’t wait to give it a try. Now I’ll go through your post again and come up with some new ideas. I have a special place on my computer for them. Great post!
January 14, 2021 at 11:59 pm
tinefg
Thank you Lauren! Following the yellow brick road sounds like a great adventure —
January 15, 2021 at 12:03 am
Zoraida Rivera
Interesting way to make connections in stories. The hardest thing, to get that concrete idea. That critic stops my hand!
January 15, 2021 at 12:03 am
Brittney
This technique of brainstorming is genius!! Thank you!
January 15, 2021 at 12:04 am
Joy Wieder
I love the idea of following the yellow brick road!
January 15, 2021 at 12:23 am
jilltatara
Fantastic! Very helpful post! and your templates are a-ma-zing! Thank you so much!
January 15, 2021 at 12:24 am
Janet Smart
Congratulations on your new book and thanks for the ideas!
January 15, 2021 at 12:28 am
Cathleen Collins
This reminds me of the Six Thinking Hats ideation strategy. Thank you!
January 15, 2021 at 12:32 am
Mary Jane
Thank you so much for this inspiring post and the template.
January 15, 2021 at 12:37 am
JillDanaBooks
Wow, great exercises! Thank you! 🙂 Jill Dana
January 15, 2021 at 12:41 am
authorlaurablog
Laure, what a great post! Looking forward to your new book.
January 15, 2021 at 1:00 am
Jenny Boyd
I can’t wait to Follow the Yellow Brick Road. Thanks for the slew of ideas rolled into one. Brilliant!
January 15, 2021 at 1:06 am
Jen
Such a simple yet powerful concept.
January 15, 2021 at 1:25 am
Marci Whitehurst
Such great advice! Follow the Yellow Brick Road! Thanks, Lauren!!
January 15, 2021 at 1:44 am
Katie Schwartz
Thank you Laura, I am having visions of coming up with ideas, and then going forward in an organized way, referring to your template! Something new for me, LOL, but much needed! And will be looking for your book release!
January 15, 2021 at 1:49 am
Jeannette Suhr
Your Yellow Brick Road tool has already proven beneficial to me. Thanks for sharing it! By the way, I’m a Jersey girl, too, and I’ve been living in Colorado for over 30 years. Once you’re here, you never want to leave.
January 15, 2021 at 1:53 am
serenagingoldallen
What a fun tool to use for developing ideas! I often start with an idea and then struggle with where I want to take it. I’m excited to try this out!
January 15, 2021 at 2:02 am
8catpaws
I like the idea of a word bank–think of words that could be in a story before thinking of the plot…
January 15, 2021 at 2:04 am
bookthreader
What a fun strategy! 🌸
Moni
January 15, 2021 at 2:22 am
rosainkpen
Loved today’s post. Thanks Lauren.
January 15, 2021 at 2:27 am
elementaryartists
Love this idea! Thanks!!
January 15, 2021 at 2:27 am
Marcia Berneger
Thanks—I got a great idea to add to my list while reading this.
January 15, 2021 at 2:29 am
mariamd542
Thank you, this helps!
January 15, 2021 at 2:44 am
ruthwilson48
This is such helpful advice! Thanks, Lauren!
January 15, 2021 at 2:53 am
Jayne Wilson
Lauren you gave me the most beautiful idea ever! A book for children who aren’t able to live with their parents because it isn’t safe for them. I would have never thought about an idea like that yet I’ve taught a little angel last year who is in this situation & will be getting 2 more angels this year in my class. When I was reading your post & not even doing the exercises you sparked off something inside me. God bless you & thank you! Now I’ll go & do your exercises. Have the loveliest day! ❤️
January 15, 2021 at 2:55 am
Judith Snyder
Your analogy for our writing journey is a magical mix of everyday ideas with a creative twist. I also love the idea how this thinking can add layers to a story. This idea is a keeper. Thanks.
January 15, 2021 at 3:47 am
Rachel S. Hobbs Gunn
Thank you!
January 15, 2021 at 6:03 am
Amelia Shearer
Thanks for sharing your templates with us! I struggle on the organization side once my mss are written, so I’m bookmarking your agent template for sure! 🙂
January 15, 2021 at 6:44 am
Blair Ortman
I LOVE this strategy. It’s simple, clear, and powerful! Thank you!
January 15, 2021 at 7:30 am
Lisa M. Horn
My favorite movie is The Wizard of Oz! I love that your process follows the Yellow Brick Road. I relate to Dorothy with my writing. “She had to learn it for herself” that she could write.. with a little help from some new friends ( wonderful mentors and colleagues). Thanks for sharing this wonderful process.
January 15, 2021 at 7:40 am
Patricia Alcaro
Fleshing out the good ideas is great advice. Thank you.
January 15, 2021 at 8:33 am
Karen N
What a wonderful writing idea! Thank you, Lauren for sharing this with us. Can’t wait to give it try!
January 15, 2021 at 9:02 am
Lucky Jo Boscarino
What if.. we follow the yellow tick or yellow thick or yellow stick roads? Turns out the original brick road has all sorts of side paths. Thanks for the push start, Lauren!
January 15, 2021 at 9:31 am
kaitlinsikeswrites
Whenever I make word lists, they are incredibly helpful. Thanks for the reminder! Hopefully it will help me with a MS I am puzzling over. Also huge thanks for the templates and the link to the exploding sandwich.
January 15, 2021 at 9:43 am
melissamiles1
I love this post! Thank you so much for the link to your templates and for your generous prizes. I’m never going to see squirrels in quite the same way, either. Lol. Sounds like a fun story idea to me!
January 15, 2021 at 9:51 am
Jenny Morales
What an awesome post! Thank you so much for the concrete idea-generating strategy. It’s super helpful!
January 15, 2021 at 9:53 am
Lisa (Elisabeth) Aikins
This is absolutely AMAZING!! Thank you, Lauren!!
January 15, 2021 at 10:17 am
Kirsti Call
Love this post!!!
January 15, 2021 at 10:27 am
Johnell DeWitt
You made it so easy! Thanks.
January 15, 2021 at 10:28 am
JC
Such a concrete way to get started! Thanks for your post.
January 15, 2021 at 10:32 am
Jeannie Santucci
Hi Lauren,
Great strategy for developing ideas and spring boarding into others!! Thank you
From another Jersey Girl
Jeannie Santucci
January 15, 2021 at 10:32 am
Mary Zychowicz
Great idea for brainstorming and creating! Thank you.
January 15, 2021 at 10:44 am
Christina Shawn
Thank you for this fun and helpful brainstorming structure!
January 15, 2021 at 10:45 am
lois1952
Looking forward to working with this process. Txalot.
January 15, 2021 at 10:56 am
triciacandy
Thank you! That word bank really does generate a ton of deeper ideas!
January 15, 2021 at 10:56 am
Christina Dendy Gaspar
Love this exercise and the templates! Thank you for sharing! C.
January 15, 2021 at 10:59 am
Teresa Daffern
Thank you Lauren. I am going to try this process for all those ideas that stopped at the foot of the road. Wonderful inspiration!
January 15, 2021 at 11:03 am
marsha weiner
Layers… layers and more layers… layers of different textures, layers of different challenges, layers of different conflicts.. layers Princess and the Pea
thank you
January 15, 2021 at 11:05 am
Karen
I’m a list girl, so this is right up my alley, er yellow-brick road. Thanks for sharing your process!
January 15, 2021 at 11:15 am
Keren Dibbens-Wyatt
Thanks for this idea. I love the Wizard of Oz so it makes sense to me.
January 15, 2021 at 11:23 am
georgeandjohanna
Thank you for this post but most importantly thank you for writing a book about foster care. I work with a nonprofit in Austin serving children that need to hear this book. I can’t wait to buy it. Thank you.
January 15, 2021 at 11:27 am
Prairie Garden Girl
Thank you, Lauren. Time to follow the Yellow Brick Road!
Suzy Leopold
January 15, 2021 at 11:29 am
susanzonca
Such a great idea! And so doable even if I have just a spark.
January 15, 2021 at 11:33 am
Aimee Haburjak
This is going on my desk. I need more yellow brick roads to follow. Thank for this inspiring post.
January 15, 2021 at 11:34 am
Freda Lewkowicz
Thank you for sparking lots of ideas and for all the templates.
January 15, 2021 at 11:42 am
Susan Cabael
Your word bank wonder will be a game changer!
January 15, 2021 at 11:46 am
brittanypomales
Love this! A yellow brick road paved with questions. I can’t wait to try out this exercise.
January 15, 2021 at 11:52 am
Christine @ Goodjelly
Thanks, Lauren. Love the process and the templates. ❤
January 15, 2021 at 12:01 pm
romontanaro
This is fantastic. Doing this right now. Thanks so much Lauren and wish you continued success.
Rosanna
January 15, 2021 at 12:03 pm
Sondra Z
I love word banks! Thanks for this idea to apply a series of questions to them. It will definitely create new avenues for exploring even more ideas.
January 15, 2021 at 12:09 pm
Renée Neubauer
This is such a great idea generator! And I love that it can help create layers to ms, too. Thanks so much for the post!
January 15, 2021 at 12:16 pm
ejessmurray
Very cool idea, thank you, Lauren!
January 15, 2021 at 12:26 pm
Megan Litwin
I love making word lists too – but now I’m excited to use those lists as springboards down all different paths! Genius. Thanks for all the great resources in this post!
January 15, 2021 at 12:39 pm
teacherwriteracker
I’m off to see the story-generating Wizard!
January 15, 2021 at 12:43 pm
Michele Helsel
This post is packed with good ideas on generating ideas! Thank you!
January 15, 2021 at 1:03 pm
Micki Ginsberg
I enjoyed your valuable post and will put it to immediate use. Thanks, Lauren!
January 15, 2021 at 1:04 pm
Jacqueline Adams
My plan for my next writing session is to follow the yellow brick road with my work in progress. Thanks!
January 15, 2021 at 1:30 pm
donnacangelosi
Love all these ideas, especially the word bank! Thanks so much, Lauren!
January 15, 2021 at 1:33 pm
CHRISTINE GRAHAM
Thanks for sharing a great idea.
January 15, 2021 at 1:57 pm
M.A. Cortez
I like your process, and your book looks adorable. Can’t wait to read it.
January 15, 2021 at 2:14 pm
Carrie Williford (@carrietimes)
What an interesting exercise! I love how it can branch off into so many possibilities.
January 15, 2021 at 2:21 pm
Amy Newbold
Thanks, Lauren, for sharing your process! This is so helpful.
January 15, 2021 at 2:36 pm
Susan Waide
Great exercise for generating new ideas!
January 15, 2021 at 2:38 pm
Judy Palermo
Love the word bank and will definitely use it! Thanks.
January 15, 2021 at 2:40 pm
Louise Aamodt
Thanks for all the ideas. It’s always helpful to peek into the process that guides another writer.
January 15, 2021 at 2:41 pm
Christine Van Zandt, author of A BRIEF HISTORY OF UNDERPANTS
Love the mini typewriter and thank you for the ideas!
January 15, 2021 at 2:46 pm
Linda Bozzo
I use a word bank so I can’t wait to add the Yellow Brick Road. Thanks for all of your ideas and templates.
January 15, 2021 at 3:08 pm
Beth Elliott
This is fun, so creative and imaginative. I’m going to use this when I feel stuck! What a fun find your templates are, too. Thank you!
January 15, 2021 at 3:12 pm
Vanessa Hancock (@HancockVanessa)
I’ve started my word bank! Great idea!
January 15, 2021 at 3:22 pm
Tonnye W. Fletcher
I’m a huge Wizard of Oz fan, so I love the yellow brick road analogy! Lots of great tips for generating ideas! Thank you, Lauren!
January 15, 2021 at 3:43 pm
rgstones
I love the idea of a word bank. Thank you!
January 15, 2021 at 4:04 pm
angie9091
Thank you for sharing! Angie Isaacs
January 15, 2021 at 4:06 pm
Laurie Carmody
MIND BLOWN! This is such a phenomenal exercise. Sometimes I find that a story that I want to write is already out in the world. I will use this word bank idea to see what other stories can work!
January 15, 2021 at 4:11 pm
Nancy Riley
Great way to generate ideas or new perspectives. Thanks so much for Sharing!
January 15, 2021 at 4:28 pm
Jen MacGregor
I should get into the habit of doing a word bank. Thank you!
January 15, 2021 at 4:40 pm
Lauren Hidalgo
I LOVED the yellow brick road list! 🙂 such a great idea. 😀
January 15, 2021 at 5:33 pm
gattodesign
Love to look for words…wacky ones! Thanks for the inspiration!
January 15, 2021 at 6:14 pm
Virginia Rinkel
Your words are inspiration to me. Thank you.
January 15, 2021 at 6:27 pm
Shawna J. C. Tenney
Great way to brainstorm an idea! And thanks for the Template!
January 15, 2021 at 6:31 pm
Renee Choy
Wow these are great ideas! Thank you so much for sharing!
January 15, 2021 at 6:42 pm
marnijlo
Thank you for sharing this helpful process. It is a great next step for generating ideas from a spark! Looking forward to reading your new book.
January 15, 2021 at 6:52 pm
Katie L. Carroll
I will definitely be following the Yellow Brick Road with my ideas.
January 15, 2021 at 6:55 pm
Arlene Schenker
Thanks for your reminders about layers, Lauren-and for your templates.
January 15, 2021 at 7:01 pm
Amanda Lieber
Thank you Lauren, I absolutely love the way you have broken down this process. It’s incredibly attainable! THANK YOU 🙂
January 15, 2021 at 7:02 pm
ingridboydston
Wow! One idea can turn into many this way. Thank you!
January 15, 2021 at 7:04 pm
Amanda Lieber
Thank you Lauren, I just love the way you have broken this process down, it’s incredibly attainable! Onwards to the Emerald City 😉
January 15, 2021 at 7:29 pm
Angela H. Dale
This is such actionable advice – thank you. And I hope it’s okay, I’m adopting your writing goals: Read voraciously. Embrace feedback. Grow each day. Work hard. Be passionate. Write courageously. Touch children’s hearts.
January 15, 2021 at 7:48 pm
Amy Harding
Thanks, Lauren! I love a step-by-step list!
January 15, 2021 at 7:58 pm
Ave Maria Cross
What an interesting creative process — great advice. Your ‘word bank wonder list’ really speaks to me, no pun intended. Thanks for sharing.
January 15, 2021 at 8:21 pm
Kimberly Marcus
Thank you for tying the yellow brick road to extending my thinking about my ideas/stories. Really nice way to think about it. Thanks again.
January 15, 2021 at 8:42 pm
Teresa Fales
Thanks so much for the suggestions and for the worksheet to flesh out my ideas.
January 15, 2021 at 9:10 pm
Mark Ceilley
These are wonderful, concrete ways to generate story ideas!
Thank you!
January 15, 2021 at 9:31 pm
Amy Fae
This is a great way to sow and grow ideas! Thanks, Lauren!
January 15, 2021 at 9:33 pm
susanfilkins
Rejection Bingo Card! Hilarious!
Thanks for the post!
January 15, 2021 at 9:37 pm
Masha Sapron
whoa! What a cool idea generator! Bravo!
January 15, 2021 at 10:30 pm
Joy Pitcairn
Great idea!
I just previewed HOME FOR A WHILE on Edelweiss. It looks so lovely, and I have many friends who foster. I plan to recommend it to them!
January 15, 2021 at 10:44 pm
Elizabeth Metz
This is a bookmark-able Storystorm post if I ever saw one. Think I’ll try this brainstorming exercise this weekend!
January 16, 2021 at 12:12 am
Shannon Howarth Nelsen
Thanks, Lauren. Great ideas!
January 16, 2021 at 1:21 am
cravevsworld
Thanks for the inspiring post… I’m now searching for a lion, scarecrow, and tinman (a dog in a bike basket would be nice too, but can’t be too greedy) to accompany me on this journey!
January 16, 2021 at 1:30 am
Sherri
Really great advice, and I loved the templates. Thank you.
January 16, 2021 at 6:58 am
mbhmaine
What a great way to spark ideas and add layers to a story. I will definitely be trying this out. Thanks so much for sharing!
January 16, 2021 at 9:21 am
yangmommy
Kudos to a word bank idea! Definitely going to incorporate that into my writing. Thx so much, Lauren!
January 16, 2021 at 9:26 am
Sherri Jones Rivers
This is so helpful. Love the idea of the yellow brick road and all of its twists and turns.
January 16, 2021 at 9:27 am
Cheryl Keely
A great peek behind the curtain. Lots of helpful levers back there!
January 16, 2021 at 12:53 pm
laurelneme
Love this post and your templates!
January 16, 2021 at 12:53 pm
Marzieh Abbas
i love this route! thanks so much for sharing
January 16, 2021 at 12:55 pm
Shirley Ng-Benitez
Thank you for this inspiring post!
January 16, 2021 at 1:00 pm
vijikc
Amazing technique to generate new ideas! Thank you
January 16, 2021 at 1:05 pm
Cassie Bentley
This is a much needed story. Not only the fostering part, the part about discovering your strengths, and especially emotional regulation.
Thank you for sharing your process of developing ideas and making them into stories.
January 16, 2021 at 1:12 pm
Martha Moore
Big sigh. Why didn’t I write down that fabulous idea I had when I first read this post? Lesson learned. Will I change my ‘I’ll remember that’ habit?!
January 16, 2021 at 1:20 pm
Trine Grillo
I love this plan and want to share it with my students!
January 16, 2021 at 1:58 pm
JoLynne Ricker Whalen
I love this idea for coming up with new ideas! Thanks for sharing!
January 16, 2021 at 3:08 pm
Melissa Stoller
Lauren – thanks for a great post! I love your idea of using words in your word bank to help flesh out new ideas. Can’t wait to get a copy of HOME FOR A WHILE!
January 16, 2021 at 3:22 pm
Joannie Duris
Thanks, Lauren! I loved your concrete example of how a word bank can become a road map for a wealth of new ideas. I also love how it can add layers to your story–something that can give it multiple hooks for a broader audience. A big sell for agents and editors!
January 16, 2021 at 3:31 pm
libbydemmon
I love the idea of making a word bank to use as a starting point for the magical yellow brick road. Also, the typewriter pencil cup!!
January 16, 2021 at 3:48 pm
kirsten218
Love this! Word banks are so helpful.
January 16, 2021 at 5:04 pm
Wendy
Your template is fantastic! So much information distilled into one place. Thanks, Lauren!
January 16, 2021 at 6:28 pm
FrannyG
Great tips and tools for harnessing creativity and organising our ideas. Thanks!
January 16, 2021 at 6:41 pm
Elizabeth Masterman
I’m not sure I could cope with this approach, I’m already a bit overwhelmed by my long list of ideas! Thank you for sharing your method!
January 16, 2021 at 7:06 pm
Heather Kelso
Thank you for the post! I plan on following the yellow brick road all weekend to brainstorm ideas.
January 16, 2021 at 7:34 pm
Deek
Great tips! I’m very interested in adding layers in my stories.
January 16, 2021 at 7:49 pm
Lisa Kingsford
This is how I work my manuscripts! It really does spark the ideas. Congratulations on Home for A While. It sounds like a much needed book.
January 16, 2021 at 8:03 pm
Helen Lysicatos
Loving this idea generating technique!
January 16, 2021 at 9:02 pm
Nicole Loos Miller
Ooh, thanks for sharing! I create word banks during my first revision of a manuscript but never thought of using it as a way to brainstorm!
January 16, 2021 at 9:44 pm
Anne LeBlanc Gr 4/5 teacher 🇨🇦📚❤️✍️🖖😃 (@AnneLeBlanc2)
I love all these ideas! I can really adapt them for my students too! Thank you so much!
January 16, 2021 at 9:46 pm
authorjanetparkinsonbryce
I really enjoyed this idea! It is a great way to stretch out my story.
January 16, 2021 at 10:03 pm
Aimee Larke
Great post and your resources and incite are always amazingly helpful and appreciated!
January 17, 2021 at 12:45 am
Sandy Perlic
Ooh, I love the idea of a word bank for a particular story, and then following tangents from your word bank to see what else sparks. This is an idea I will use! Thanks, Lauren!
January 17, 2021 at 1:07 am
wyszguy
Thank you so much! What a great suggestion!
January 17, 2021 at 1:25 am
alyssa_reynoso_morris
HOME FOR A WHILE sounds like such a sweet story.
January 17, 2021 at 2:07 am
bonnie fireUrchin ~ pb illustration & writing
Thank you for putting this into a simple checklist and sharing with us!
Great way to remember each and every time to hit all the marks on one’s MS.
January 17, 2021 at 8:17 am
ptnozell
Lauren, I love the idea of creating a word bank to flesh out ideas. Thanks so much for sharing!
January 17, 2021 at 9:28 am
Midge Ballou Smith
Thank you, Lauren! Great post!
January 17, 2021 at 10:15 am
allyenz
Hi Lauren, what a treasure to have just discovered you and your inspirational ideas and website! I just signed up to follow your wordpress site, and will definitely be checking out all those resources on your website.
I will also be looking for your book on emotional regulation strategies for adolescents–needing that these days with as a mom of an energetic, emotive and sensitive 13 year old!!
January 17, 2021 at 10:24 am
Abby Wooldridge
Wow–what an awesome post, Lauren! I love your word bank idea–and the idea to follow those words down the yellow brick road! Can’t wait to try this! Thanks so much for this suggestion! 🙂
January 17, 2021 at 10:54 am
Laura
I LOVE this strategy! This helps so much in creating ideas!!!
January 17, 2021 at 11:23 am
Julia A Mills
I love the way you made this concept sound fun…just follow the yellow brick road!
January 17, 2021 at 1:20 pm
Pam Jones-Nill
Great post. I can’t wait to use the templates. Thanks!
January 17, 2021 at 2:29 pm
rhumba20
Thank you Lauren! Congratulations on your new book!!!
January 17, 2021 at 3:00 pm
Joyce
Thanks
January 17, 2021 at 4:21 pm
syorkeviney
Interesting…. I look forward to trying out this approach!
January 17, 2021 at 5:09 pm
Kathy Berman
Thanks for your post Lauren. I usually do make a word bank for my story, but I never used it as a springboard for more ideas. Fantastic.
January 17, 2021 at 7:17 pm
jimchaize1
I’m planning to Follow the Yellow Brick Road. Thanks, Lauren.
January 17, 2021 at 8:26 pm
Christine Pinto
Thanks for the reminder to fill up a word bank. Sometimes I get so lost in the idea that I forget that the words I use to tell the story have stories of their own. Fun to explore.
January 17, 2021 at 8:41 pm
Lauri Meyers
This is a different approach- love the word bank and letting it lead you to ideas. Takes away a lot of the blank page scariness!
January 17, 2021 at 11:35 pm
Michelle Kashinsky
This was really inspiring, and I love the quote on your website by Shannon Hale, “I’m writing a first draft and reminding myself that I’m simply shoveling sand into a box so that layer I can build sand castles.” This is magical. Thank you!
January 18, 2021 at 1:35 am
Sensitive and Extraordinary Kids
Fantastic! Thank you for sharing!
January 18, 2021 at 2:28 am
sharonkdal
Such a great idea to get creativity flowing. Thank you!
January 18, 2021 at 5:34 am
Sheri
I love finding as many associations as I can for a word that might represent a central symbol or concept.
For example, what do I know about stars? What do they make me think of?
Balls of flaming gas
Suns
Outer space
Ship navigation
Constellations, with classical associations
Star gazing
Shooting stars, wishing
The Christmas star, prophesy
… and the list goes on
This can help me think about which way I might want to take my story.
January 18, 2021 at 9:29 am
Susan Halko
Love your word bank idea—thank you!
January 18, 2021 at 9:43 am
Nancy Vona
I love your suggestions on how to use a word bank and then generate ideas from each word.
January 18, 2021 at 12:20 pm
Susan Schade
Thank you for the writing exercise! Follow the road to new ideas!
January 18, 2021 at 1:36 pm
Susie Sawyer
Whoa, thank you so much, Lauren! I will definitely be using this process, and your templates are fantastic! Thank you, thank you, thank you!
January 18, 2021 at 2:00 pm
Lisa Riddiough
Thank you, Lauren. I love the word bank!!
January 18, 2021 at 2:22 pm
jeanjames926
Great post and analogy. Thanks Lauren!
January 18, 2021 at 2:43 pm
Janet Halfmann
What a great way to spark ideas. I’m definitely trying this!
January 18, 2021 at 2:56 pm
muskoshe
What a great blog post! Thank you for wonderful ideas. Definitely going to incorporate.
January 18, 2021 at 3:23 pm
Bettie Boswell
Great way to use word lists by using one of my favorite childhood musicals for inspiration!
January 18, 2021 at 5:34 pm
jennyb_writes
This is a fantastic exercise! I’m sure I will use over and over again. Thank you!
January 18, 2021 at 6:56 pm
Caren
I love this exercise – duh, why didn’t I think of that!
January 18, 2021 at 7:12 pm
Jennifer
Thanks for the valuable tips and the template, too! Great exercise to go through for exploring story ideas!
January 18, 2021 at 9:14 pm
Patricia Tiffany Morris
How Fabulous! Thanks you so Kindly.
January 18, 2021 at 9:17 pm
Lynn Alpert
Great exercise. Thank you!
January 18, 2021 at 10:38 pm
Amy M. Miller
I love the word bank and yellow brick road brainstorm strategies! Thanks for sharing. Can’t wait to try it out.
January 18, 2021 at 11:28 pm
doreenrobinson
I love this idea and plan to “follow the yellow brick road” – what a game changer!
January 19, 2021 at 10:22 am
Val McC
Great way to brainstorm, especially that last nugget of how this can also add layers to an existing WIP! Thanks, Lauren!
January 19, 2021 at 11:31 am
Anita Banks
Love it!
January 19, 2021 at 2:53 pm
Megan Howe
Thank you for the very concrete steps! That is so helpful!
January 19, 2021 at 2:56 pm
boygirlparty
Did I really just come up with 14 different story ideas in MINUTES from this prompt? Holy moly. Thank you!
January 19, 2021 at 3:07 pm
Sue (Susan Uhlig) (@susanuhlig)
great visual idea
January 19, 2021 at 3:43 pm
Vera Lisa Smetzer
Awesome! And fun! I sometimes get ideas from what I see as titles. I keep a notebook of titles that is sometimes my Step 2 then that trip down that wonderful Step 3 to get to Step 4. 🙂
January 19, 2021 at 4:30 pm
Stacey Corrigan
Love the word bank idea. I am going to use that tonight.
January 19, 2021 at 5:15 pm
Alicia Z. Klepeis
Great post — loved the suggestions for how to get more ideas out and onto the page!
January 19, 2021 at 5:40 pm
paulabpuckett
Love the idea of word bank collection to generate ideas and will certainly give it a try. Thanks!
January 19, 2021 at 5:57 pm
Laura Clement
OOOO, fun ideas. Thank you.
January 19, 2021 at 8:40 pm
Karan Greene
Great ideas! Thanks!
January 19, 2021 at 10:06 pm
Julie Reich
I love word banks! I’ll definitely try this approach.
January 19, 2021 at 10:36 pm
CKLANGE
Lauren,
Thank you so much for all your helpful tips. I am looking forward to reading Home for a While. Just speaks to my heart.
Great job!
CKLange
January 19, 2021 at 11:24 pm
Meredith Fraser
The word bank is a great idea. I also like to take a word and think of it’s opposite to help while brainstorming.
January 19, 2021 at 11:29 pm
KASteed
I haven’t tried a word bank. Thanks!
January 19, 2021 at 11:51 pm
Katie Brandyberry
The word bank is a fantastic idea – eager to try this! Thanks for the great post!
January 20, 2021 at 2:15 am
Karen Chun
Wonderful concept of how to generate new ideas. I can’t wait to try the process.
January 21, 2021 at 1:39 am
Carrie Cook @carriecookhere
Thanks for sharing a great guide to more productive brainstorming!
January 21, 2021 at 5:30 am
Devin Leatherman (@cr8tiveendevors)
LOVE the Storystorm template! Can’t wait to try it out!
January 21, 2021 at 5:54 am
Terri Sabol
Very clear steps and great downloadable. Thank you, Lauren! I look forward to reading your new book.
January 21, 2021 at 10:06 am
jill
Thanks for this fantastic way to take brainstorming farther!
January 21, 2021 at 4:22 pm
Kelly Conroy
Your form is FABULOUS! Thanks for sharing and for the Yellow Brick Road prompt. I think your post is really going to help me dig deeper! Thank you.
January 21, 2021 at 8:27 pm
kidlitgail
What a fun way to brainstorm! Now I’m humming the song from the movie! Oh, and thanks for the template, too.
January 22, 2021 at 12:08 am
Toni Weeks
Can’t wait to read about Calvin! And I’m so thankful to see your idea-generating process in action. Oh, and the templates! Oh my! Thank you!
January 22, 2021 at 1:48 am
Jenna
Thank you for this post, a really interesting approach and helpful template to help bring these ideas to life! And I can’t wait to read your new book with my kids, it sounds like just what we need right about now!
January 22, 2021 at 10:31 am
naturewalkwithgod
Lauren, thank you for your post and the link that led to all your wonderful forms. I downloaded several to put to use. –Kim
January 22, 2021 at 1:52 pm
Karen Pickrell
Thank you for sharing the steps you take for finding story ideas.
January 22, 2021 at 3:43 pm
Stephanie Lau
I am currently coveting your that typewriter pen holder!
January 22, 2021 at 10:07 pm
AlisonMarcotte
I’m excited to use this story idea exercise! I also love that it adds layers to the manuscript.
January 23, 2021 at 1:14 am
Artelle Lenthall
Love it, thanks!
January 23, 2021 at 1:59 am
Jolene Ballard Gutiérrez
Lauren, this is such a helpful post–I’m excited to try your Yellow Brick Road exercise, and your template worksheet is amazing! Thank you!
January 23, 2021 at 7:56 am
kelliejanebyrnes
I love this idea – such a clever one. I’m definitely going to try it ASAP!
January 23, 2021 at 12:54 pm
Judy Bryan
Thank you for these helpful tips, Lauren, and for the Storystorm Template!!
January 23, 2021 at 1:41 pm
erintsiska
So simple and effective! Thank you Lauren, for making me feel like my rabbit holes and crazy internet searches are actually…um…reasearch!
January 23, 2021 at 6:59 pm
Brenda Whitehead (@BrendaW_Prof)
Thanks for sharing, Lauren, your template is a game changer! Off to find my yellow-brick road…
January 23, 2021 at 11:51 pm
Dina Ticas
This is such a great way to not only generate more ideas but also put some meat onto the bones of ideas that have already presented themselves. Thank you!
January 24, 2021 at 12:57 am
Anna Brooks
Thank you so much for the inspiring post! And I’m so looking forward to checking out HOME FOR A WHILE.
January 24, 2021 at 1:04 am
Jud
Great idea to do a word bank and flesh it out. Thanks!
January 24, 2021 at 11:18 am
Julie Augensen-Rand
I love this idea of branching out and generating lots of ideas.
January 24, 2021 at 1:59 pm
Cinzia V.
Thanks for this post. Great idea, and I love your storystorm template! I can’t wait to read HOME FOR A WHILE
January 24, 2021 at 2:44 pm
iefaber
LOVE the idea of ideas generating ideas and not being linear. Thank you for this process.
January 24, 2021 at 7:06 pm
Debbie Meyer
Great ideas, Lauren! Thank you for your help.
January 24, 2021 at 8:16 pm
Marilyn R Garcia
Your process is exactly the process I use when I write poetry from a prompt. Glad to know it works for stories just as easily. Thanks! 🙂
January 25, 2021 at 4:46 am
sylviaichen
Such a great idea: brainstorming through word associations, and then using that for layering too, wow, thank you for sharing this!
January 25, 2021 at 8:24 am
Jen Lynn Bailey
Thanks for sharing how you expand on a simple idea to generate so many different possibilities.
January 25, 2021 at 10:56 am
Betsy Devany
Can’t wait for Home For A While to come out. Thanks for all your wonderful advice!
January 25, 2021 at 11:02 am
Suzanne Poulter Harris
Love your process and your templates! Thanks for sharing.
January 25, 2021 at 5:05 pm
Nina Nolan
Thank you for your post! I liked the way the yellow brick road could generate ideas for layers for the current work in progress and/or ideas for different stories.
January 26, 2021 at 10:13 am
Misty Morris
I so appreciate all the ideas for generating new ideas! Thank you!
January 27, 2021 at 10:22 am
Alycia Darilek
Great idea! Thank you!
January 27, 2021 at 7:52 pm
Bill Canterbury
Helpful advice here!
January 28, 2021 at 1:54 pm
Brenda Grant Lower
Such a great way to enrich the process! Thanks so much for sharing!
January 28, 2021 at 11:00 pm
Karen L Ledbetter
Along the yellow brick road
January 29, 2021 at 11:32 pm
thedandelionzoo
I love this framework for brainstorming! Thank you!
January 30, 2021 at 8:43 am
Lisa L Furness
Can’t wait to read Home For A While!
January 30, 2021 at 9:57 am
Kimberly Wilson
I have a wordbank for every manuscript––probably my favorite part of brainstorming! I love your idea to take those words and expand on them (down the yellow brick road!). Thank you!
January 30, 2021 at 10:26 am
Audrey
I have created wordbanks for my day job as a copywriter, but oddly have never considered doing so for my pbs. Well, gosh, what a novel idea! Thank you, Lauren!
January 30, 2021 at 1:23 pm
Christine Fleming McIsaac
Really like this technique and all the resources you offer. Thanks so much!
January 30, 2021 at 3:46 pm
dlapmandi
Love the detailed step by step to developing a picture book idea. Thanks for the post.
January 30, 2021 at 5:05 pm
Susan Niemann
Thank you for sharing your template!
January 30, 2021 at 5:53 pm
colleenrkosinski
I’ve never done a word bank. Good idea!
January 30, 2021 at 6:00 pm
Mary Worley
I like this idea for discovering layers. Thanks for all of your templates, too! Looking forward to your new book.
January 30, 2021 at 6:25 pm
Sheri Dillard
Oh, wow, I think I’m going to get a lot of ideas from this! Thank you!! 🙂
January 30, 2021 at 10:38 pm
kristenrashid
Super helpful exercise! Thanks!
January 31, 2021 at 3:47 pm
Melissa McDaniel
Thanks, Lauren!
January 31, 2021 at 7:03 pm
Debbi G
Thanks for sharing your yellow brick road.
January 31, 2021 at 7:40 pm
Jen Walsh Hawks
I really loved this activity! I can’t wait to work on it some more. Thank you for sharing your template also. Looking forward to meeting Calvin in your book!
February 1, 2021 at 12:36 am
Jennifer Broedel (@JBroedelAuthor)
OOOO, I LOVE making word banks! Such a great idea for drafting- Thanks, Lauren!
February 1, 2021 at 2:08 pm
Jen (aka RandomlyGenerated)
Recording is SO important!
February 1, 2021 at 10:57 pm
kmshelley
Thanks for a very helpful post!
February 2, 2021 at 1:20 pm
Naomi Gruer
Thanks for the inspiring post.
February 4, 2021 at 11:18 am
Kelly Vavala
Really inspiring post! Thank you for sharing!
February 4, 2021 at 7:49 pm
Dea Brayden
Love word banking a spark and then digging deeper. Great post.
February 6, 2021 at 1:01 am
Lindsay Brayden Ellis
Thank you!