by Rosie J. Pova
Every story has its own way of sneaking into my subconscious. I keep my mind open, and on the lookout, so that, in its tiny kernel form, the idea could find a crack and jump into my precious pool of ideas to draw from.
I’ve noticed that there isn’t just one process for me that works the same way each time and I love that! I can relax, knowing that the muse can tap on my shoulder, whisper in my ear, tug on my pajama pants or even pull my leg, occasionally, to get my attention. Or I can summon her up with some tricks up my sleeve, too. But one thing’s for sure―she will show up! I can trust that the well will never dry up and my next story may spring at any moment.
It’s a game, and it’s a playful challenge. And it’s always fun to discover the clues leading up to a new inspiration for writing my next piece!
Today, I’d like to share my top three tried-and-true techniques for collecting or retrieving story ideas.
1. A Theme
Sometimes, my starting point for generating ideas is a theme. I have a specific one in mind that I want my story to reflect. My picture book, SARAH’S SONG, is an example of that.
Reading other books with a similar theme, I wanted to write a story about something precious, cherished that is lost or transformed into something different in a way that the character would have to let go, and either find peace with it or adapt to the new and transformed “something precious.” Not in so many words in my mind, just very basic sense for the direction in which to focus.
The story I wrote was about a special tradition a girl and her grandma shared through dance and music, but then it altered when Grandma was no longer able to dance and sing like she used to.
2. A Phrase
Listen! A character might be talking to you. A narrator may be feeding you a phrase to draw your attention. That happens to me often. Usually when I’m driving, washing dishes, taking a shower or when I first wake up.
I’d hear a line of dialogue and my curiosity takes over, leading me on a path to discovery. Who is that character talking? What are they like? What do they want?
Other times, an interesting sentence pops into my mind as was the case recently with this one: “Mule mulled over the idea. . .” I thought it sounded cool and was funny to me. I also knew what he mulled over, but won’t give it away here ;). So, this turned into a new story I wrote.
Initially, I believed that would be my opening line for the story. Well, it turned out it wasn’t. I added a new opening and the mulling mule paragraph moved down. But that’s not all! Later, in revisions, that sentence changed, and Mule no longer mulled. That verb was replaced with another one. So, poof! There went my consonance, too! But I have no regrets! This little phrase worked to get me to write a brand-new story! And here’s what one of my critique partners had to say about it after I polished it and sent it back to her: “It’s spectacular! It’s glamorous and hysterical! Well done!”
I have no clue whether this story would ever become a book, but no doubt, I consider that a win!
Another instance of a story that sprang from a sentence was when this came to my mind: “The school of failure was located in the middle of nowhere, but it was the center of everything.”
Oh, how I admired this opening sentence! Genius! So clever! I was patting myself on the back… for a while. Then the story went through a gazillion revisions. I kept the sentence, even though it was no longer the opening sentence. Then more revisions followed. I still didn’t have the heart to kill my darling, so it stayed, stubbornly and selfishly saved by its author.
Fast-forward a couple of years (at least!) the story sold! Here came a gazillion more revisions after it was acquired. At some point, the editors asked me to get rid of that sentence―they thought it was vague and not kid-friendly and just did not serve the story at all. GASP! What? But that was the one that started this whole story creation! I was attached to it now!
Well, I had to cut it and I knew it. Eventually, I gave it my farewell and showed it the exit.
The journey of that book was long and hard, unlike some of my other books. But here’s the result and I am so happy and excited for it!
3. A Prompt
My upcoming book, SUNDAY RAIN, was born out of a prompt. There was a submission opportunity through 12 x12 to submit to an editor. I wanted to take advantage of this call for submissions, but I had no story that matched the taste of that editor. So, I decided to write a new one, just for them. I looked at their guidelines again and what piqued my interest was a “story that captures a moment.”
I thought about it and brainstormed. I wondered what childhood moment I could reflect in a story.
And then an image of kids playing in the rain popped into my head.
I have a vivid childhood memory of swirling and twirling in delight, soaking wet, in a heavy summer rain. But in my case, I was the only one — all my friends who were there ran for shelter when it started pouring. The rain was so warm, I stayed. I felt happy, adventurous, and carefree at that moment.
So that served as the spark for my story. The words started pouring out of me. I finished a first draft pretty quickly.
Well, long story short, that publisher did not pick the book, but another one loved it and did! So now it’s a book that will soon be out into the world and in the hands of many kids!
Another story I recently wrote was also born from a prompt. This time, it came from a dear critique partner. I wanted to write a story for a specific publisher and when I shared that with her, we tossed around some ideas of general themes that would be a good match for that house. Then my friend suggested I write a story about community coming together. Once I had that prompt, the idea quickly flooded in and I poured it out on paper the same day. Her feedback on it? “It’s AMAZING Love it!!!!”
So, these three methods have proven the most fruitful in sparking story ideas for me lately and I hope you will try them all!
Have any of those worked for you? Let me know how ideas pop up for you most often.
Rosie J. Pova is a multi-published, award-winning children’s author, poet, speaker, and writing coach on a mission to inspire children not only to read and write more, but to use their creativity, follow their passions, dream big and believe in themselves. She is also a Writing Instructor for the Dallas Independent School District through The Writer’s Garret, an instructor with Writing Workshops Dallas, teaching picture book courses to children’s writers, and the founder of two children’s writing contests–KWEST and Haiku Hype–as well as the organizer of The Write Universe Kidlit Writers Workshops in Dallas, TX. She also serves as a judge for Rate Your Story.
Rosie visits schools and shares her inspirational journey as an immigrant from Bulgaria and how she became a published author, encouraging kids to persist, push through obstacles, and hold a high vision of themselves.
Her upcoming picture book, Sunday Rain, celebrates imagination, the love of books, and new friendships. You can pre-order a signed copy. Her latest book, The School of Failure: A Story about Success will be released in spring 2022. Visit Rosie at rosiejpova.com, on Twitter @RosiePOV, Instagram @rosiepova and Facebook.
Rosie is giving away a signed copy of SUNDAY RAIN.
Leave one comment below to enter.
You’re eligible to win if you’re a registered Storystorm participant and you have commented once below.
541 comments
Comments feed for this article
January 23, 2021 at 11:28 am
Earl @ The Chronicles Of A Children's Book Writer
Great tips! I can’t wait to someday be in Publisher’s Weekly as an upcoming published writer!
January 23, 2021 at 12:23 pm
Rebecca Arent-Draper
Thank you for the great tips!
January 23, 2021 at 11:29 am
Mark Bentz
Hi Rosie, It is true. Stories can come from everywhere if your open.
Thank you for your post. And congratulations on, Sunday Rain.
January 23, 2021 at 11:30 am
Andrea Mack
These are great ideas, Rosie! Thank you! I love the idea of starting with a phrase or line and seeing where it goes (and also being open enough to change it if needed).
January 23, 2021 at 11:31 am
Nancy Colle
Nifty! Love it when ideas just pop! Thank you so much:)
January 23, 2021 at 11:32 am
judyrubin13
Thank you, Rosie, for sharing your writing inspirations. What great ideas to start with today.
January 23, 2021 at 11:33 am
Jany Campana
Thanks Rosie! You’ve got me listening to my characters!
January 23, 2021 at 11:33 am
Linda Staszak
Great post, thank you! Ideas are there–we just have to grab them. I can’t wait to read SUNDAY RAIN!!
January 23, 2021 at 7:42 pm
Patricia J Holloway
Congratulations on your books. I love how you can turn a line into a story! I can’t wait to read Sunday Rain!
January 23, 2021 at 11:34 am
Jessica Hinrichs
Great tips! Thank you! Sunday Rain looks lovely!!
January 23, 2021 at 11:34 am
pollyrenner
Thanks, Rosie, for sharing your 3 prompts! Congrats on your continued success! You’ve inspired me to keep going:>
January 23, 2021 at 11:37 am
Ginny Neil
Killing my darlings is always so hard. Thanks for reminding me that I can celebrate the fact that they kept me at it until they had to die for the cause.
January 23, 2021 at 11:37 am
Lynne Marie
So fun to read the process of these books I know so well! Congratulations and much success to you, Rosie!
January 23, 2021 at 11:38 am
Cathleen Collins
Wonderful ideas! And I love hearing how your stories came to be. Thanks!
January 23, 2021 at 11:39 am
Judith Snyder
Your suggestions offer so many possibilities for ideas. Thank you.
January 23, 2021 at 11:40 am
Debra Katz
All great ideas, and it was interesting read how the author used these strategies to generate her picture books stories.
January 23, 2021 at 11:41 am
nrompella
Interesting places to find ideas. Thanks!
January 23, 2021 at 11:42 am
Cathy L. Murphy
Such great tips! Thanks, Rosie.
January 23, 2021 at 11:43 am
Laurie Bouck
Thanks so much for sharing these great techniques!! 😀
January 23, 2021 at 11:43 am
Kaye Wright
Love the idea of getting an idea with a phrase. I’ve never thought about that before. Thank you!
January 23, 2021 at 11:43 am
Jeanne Cherney
Love these!
January 23, 2021 at 11:43 am
Linda Hofke
I love this post. These are all great ideas, Rosie.
January 23, 2021 at 11:44 am
awritersdream41
Hatching ideas using a theme, a phrase, and a prompt! Thanks for sharing your process with us.
January 23, 2021 at 11:44 am
Corlie Aldrich
Hi Rosie! Thank you for your inspiration. It brought back childhood memories of running through the sprinklers.
January 23, 2021 at 11:45 am
Genevieve Gorback
I loved reading this post. Stories are everywhere, one just has to be open to them. What a great takeaway!
January 23, 2021 at 11:45 am
Shaunda Wenger
Thank you for sharing how writing from a spark of an idea can be shaped into story. I especially love hearing how your work with your critique team. Congratulations on your new book!
January 23, 2021 at 11:46 am
readmybook2002
I liked the ideas especially the prompts. Thank You.
January 23, 2021 at 11:46 am
Armineh Manookian
My current wip started as a response to a prompt during my regional SCBWI Lit Mingle meeting. Our group traded postcards and other pictures, picked one we liked, and wrote a short story. As you suggest, stories are everywhere, and we just need to listen to them speak. Thank you Rosie for such an inspirational post.
January 23, 2021 at 11:47 am
Deb Sullivan
I don’t blame you for loving that “school of failure” sentence either! Great to see the title still reflects the gist of it…Thanks for sharing Rosie!
January 23, 2021 at 11:47 am
Kay
Great ideas I will have to try them. Thanks for sharing
January 23, 2021 at 11:48 am
jillburns7
Thank you for the inspiration, Rosie! It’s exactly what I needed to hear today! So many wonderful ideas! Congratulations on your upcoming book! As a child I loved playing in the rain!
January 23, 2021 at 11:48 am
asiqueira1307
That is how stories come to me too, in many different ways and shapes and then I have to let them marinate in my brain and heart. A lot of walks are needed to help them to reach my typing hands.
January 23, 2021 at 11:49 am
Susan Wroble
So many great ideas in this post, but I was especially intrigued by the idea of having a brainstorming session with critique partners to match wish lists. Lovely post, thanks!
January 23, 2021 at 11:49 am
Claire A. B. Freeland
SUNDAY RAIN sounds delightful. I love your description of fashioning a story around an intriguing line only to eliminate that line in the end.
January 23, 2021 at 11:51 am
betlw
Rosie, I love your three tips on how to come up with ideas. I’m going to try them all. Your book about rain brings back memories for me. My kids loved running in the warm summer rain. Sometime I would even join them. Our neighbors probably thought I was daft, but it was fun. Great post! You’ve given me ways to get more writing ideas.
January 23, 2021 at 11:52 am
Tanya Konerman
My ideas often begin with phrases too, and yes, it’s so hard to “kill my darlings” later if I must, but I find this is a great way to find my way into my story!
January 23, 2021 at 11:52 am
Mary Beth Rice
Thank you, Rosie! These are great ideas…
January 23, 2021 at 11:52 am
Tara Cerven
Great suggestions for sparking new ideas. Thank you!
January 23, 2021 at 11:56 am
Laura Bower
Hi, Rosie! So hard when one of your favorite lines get cut! Can’t wait to read all your new books- Congratulations! And thanks so much for all these awesome ideas. I’m feeling inspired!
January 23, 2021 at 11:56 am
karynellis
I particularly like suggestion #2: find a phrase. Gonna give that one a whirl today!
January 23, 2021 at 11:56 am
Candace Spizzirri
Loved this inspirational post, Rosie! Thank you.
January 23, 2021 at 11:58 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Such a great idea to assign yourself a theme or prompt according to what might fit a a particular publishing house – even if the story finds its ultimate home elsewhere!
January 23, 2021 at 11:58 am
saintamovin
Thank you Rosie 😊
January 23, 2021 at 12:00 pm
adavis6385
Thanks for the inspiration, Rosie! I relate to the idea of phrases. I have many written in my notes that have made their way into my stories. Sometimes even just a couple words! 🙂 Cheers to your success!
January 23, 2021 at 12:01 pm
Joy Wieder
I’ve had phrases and characters pop in my head while bathing, washing dishes, etc., too! I love it when my characters “talk” to me. Congrats on your upcoming books!
January 23, 2021 at 12:02 pm
Krissy
It’s always fun to listen to how story ideas come about and how much they change in the process! Great tips! Congratulations on your publications!
January 23, 2021 at 12:02 pm
Jessica Potts
Thanks for the post!
January 23, 2021 at 12:03 pm
Christine Fleming McIsaac
Love these ideas. Thanks!
January 23, 2021 at 12:04 pm
Catherine Lee
Wonderful tips for getting ideas out! Thank you for offering these up today. I will be hunting for the phrases that grab my attention and writing them down!
January 23, 2021 at 12:04 pm
Bethanny Parker
Great tips. I look forward to reading Sunday Rain.
January 23, 2021 at 12:04 pm
Lucretia S.
Rosie, Thanks for sharing your three idea-generating tips and highlighting the processes in such a clear, engaging manner. I, too, have found that responding to a prompt often results in a first draft that takes shape much more efficiently. Can’t wait to put these approaches into motion! Congratulations on your latest pb success story!
January 23, 2021 at 12:05 pm
Linda KulpTrout
Great post, Rosie! I have SARAH’S SONG, and it is such a sweet story. Thank you for the writing tips. I’m going to try all of them!
January 23, 2021 at 12:05 pm
mariemessinger
I love the title of your books! Thanks for your ideas!
January 23, 2021 at 12:05 pm
Writer on the run
Rosie, your suggestions helped me think of a childhood moment that could be a story! Thanks so much!
January 23, 2021 at 12:06 pm
Christine Fleming McIsaac
I really enjoyed this glimpse into your process and how it inspired your work. Thanks!
January 23, 2021 at 12:06 pm
marty
Always love having specific examples of how stories develop. Thanks for sharing with us!
January 23, 2021 at 12:06 pm
goodtimegreatstory
Thank you so much for the inspiration, Rosie! I have a few beloved sentences that I probably need to give the heave-ho, but they did their job to get things rolling.
January 23, 2021 at 12:07 pm
Jill Friestad-Tate
Great reminder that stories change and grow throughout the process. Thanks for your inspiration!
January 23, 2021 at 12:08 pm
sareenmclay
Thank you, Rosie. I love hearing how picture books began. Congratulations on your new book.
January 23, 2021 at 12:09 pm
Joan Longstaff
Thank you for sharing how you hatch your ideas. Many of mine come to me from watching the natural world, or nature programmes on the TV. Or seeing something a child does when I’m out and about (or used to be out and about!) Best of luck with the new book.
January 23, 2021 at 12:09 pm
chaunceyelephant
Love your story and your stories. I’m near Dallas, so I may be in touch!
January 23, 2021 at 12:09 pm
Robin Brett Wechsler
Thank you for sharing how your ideas generate more ideas. I appreciate learning where that’s led with editors. Congrats on your success, Rosie!
January 23, 2021 at 12:09 pm
kelbelroberts
Thanks for sharing!! 💘💘💘 the ideas???
January 23, 2021 at 12:11 pm
Jessica Fries-Gaither
First, I’m so glad to hear that others struggle so much with deleting those initial sentences that we all think are so brilliant! I like your thought about them serving their purpose in getting you on the path.
Second, I love the idea of writing about a moment – I’m going to ponder this and see what I come up with!
January 23, 2021 at 12:12 pm
John McGranaghan
Can’t wait to read The School of Failure. Thanks for sharing your inspirational story it must have been bitter sweet cutting that line. I thought it was an awesome line. Some great helpful tips.
January 23, 2021 at 12:13 pm
Cathy Ogren
Rosie, great examples as to how you hatched ideas for books! Perfect share!
January 23, 2021 at 12:15 pm
libbydemmon
Wow, I love the way you trust in your muse enough to be open and playful with your ideas. Great post!
January 23, 2021 at 12:16 pm
Gail Aherne
Thank you so much, Rosie, for the tips. I’m excited to try a prompt for today’s idea. Congratulations on your new book! I look forward to it.😊
January 23, 2021 at 12:16 pm
Kimberly Marcus
I love this! Thank you so much for delving into your process. I tend to get some ideas from reading grown up books. I’ll start thinking or wondering about something I’ve read and poof!
Can’t wait to read your books!
January 23, 2021 at 12:18 pm
meganu
I remember playing in the summer rain as a kid, too—can’t wait to read “Sunday Rain!”
January 23, 2021 at 12:19 pm
Susan Cabael
The strategies you use are surely making me think today!
January 23, 2021 at 12:20 pm
Sheri Radovich
THANK you Rosie, you reminded me I have lists of ideas from Tara and other authors in a folder that I will revisit and come up with something new.
I wish I had heard a character talking to me and start there but lists of prompts and ideas are great starters.
January 23, 2021 at 12:21 pm
Catherine Brewer
Writing prompts are an excellent way to get ideas flowing. Thank you Rosie for this inspiration!
January 23, 2021 at 12:24 pm
Tracy Hora
Love the examples of where you got your ideas. And we always need to hear it’s ok to kill our darlings, even the ones that started the story idea!! Great post!
January 23, 2021 at 12:26 pm
muskoshe
Beautifully said. I have a book idea that I have written based on a prompt and the idea flowed.
January 23, 2021 at 12:26 pm
kiwijenny
Love these ideas to get muse a hopping. Even came up with a germ of an idea for a story. Thanks
January 23, 2021 at 12:27 pm
TerriMichels
All your ideas worth of a second read. Thank you!
January 23, 2021 at 12:28 pm
rosecappelli
Thanks so much, and congratulations, Rosie! I’m looking forward to reading Sunday Rain.
January 23, 2021 at 12:32 pm
Peggy Dobbs
It’s inspiring to read how you successfully used each of these techniques. I especially like the prompt that asked you to create a story that captures a moment. This one has me thinking of small moments that can become big stories. Thanks!
January 23, 2021 at 12:34 pm
Julia
Thank you for sharing your ideas! Looking forward to giving them a try!
January 23, 2021 at 12:34 pm
Jessica Swaim
thanks, Rosie, for a terrific post! It’s a fascinating process, isn’t it, when the original spark for a book is among the things that end up having to be cut? I love the title School of Failure and look forward to holding your books in my hands . . .
January 23, 2021 at 12:36 pm
jbbower
Thanks for these great ideas Rosie and congratulations on your books! I feel my well has run dry at this point; but, I am certainly going to try to fill it up again!
January 23, 2021 at 12:36 pm
Buffy Silverman
Thanks for the brainstorming ideas!
January 23, 2021 at 12:37 pm
danielle hammelef
I’m thinking that if I start listening to myself and just be quiet, I might learn how to recognize ideas.
January 23, 2021 at 12:39 pm
paulabpuckett
Thank you for 3 great ways to generate story ideas.
January 23, 2021 at 12:40 pm
erintsiska
Great ideas! Thank you, Rosie!
January 23, 2021 at 12:44 pm
Janie Reinart
Rosie ,
Thank you for the post. Congratulations on your new book❤️
January 23, 2021 at 12:44 pm
Carole Calladine
thank you for sharing your prompt process. You blog also reminds me about how important critique partners are.
January 23, 2021 at 12:45 pm
suumac
Rosie – love how you demonstrated your multiple processes (something that really resonates!) with 3 inspiring examples. Such a great way to ease into our idea-generation weekend – thanks!
January 23, 2021 at 12:48 pm
Charlotte Offsay
I love hearing how your ideas evolve!! Congrats on your beautiful new book!
January 23, 2021 at 12:50 pm
Elyse Trevers
I like the idea of a character talking to you-something to think about it. Great ideas
January 23, 2021 at 12:52 pm
Cathy McDonnell
Thank you Rosis, I really enjoyed your blog. I find the phrase method is usually what gives me the most ideas and it is so reassuring to read that that particular phrase might not make it to the book as I am having to cut some of my favourite lines after receiving advice. I also like the prompt idea and am looking forward to trying it!
January 23, 2021 at 12:52 pm
Melissa H. Mwai
Thank you for the three tips, especially listening in when you keep coming back to ideas.
January 23, 2021 at 12:54 pm
thecrowsmap
Rosie, thanks for these gems, and congratulations on all your books!
Gail Hartman
January 23, 2021 at 12:54 pm
danielledufayet
I love your three suggestions-and am so happy how they led you to your fabulous books -thanks for the inspiration and congrats! 🙂
January 23, 2021 at 12:56 pm
Kirsti Call
Thanks for sharing more of your writing journey, Rosie!
January 23, 2021 at 12:57 pm
Penelope McNally
Thanks for sharing your top 3 tips Rosie! These are great brainstorming ideas. Looking forward to reading Sunday Rain.
January 23, 2021 at 12:58 pm
Karin Larson
Terrific post! Thank you for sharing your thoughts and what works for you. Great ideas. For what it is worth, I love that sentence and would have had a hard time cutting it as well!
January 23, 2021 at 1:00 pm
expressdog
You’re brilliant to listen to your subconscious! I’ve discovered story ideas in the twilight of just-before-waking but not during the day when fully awake. I’m going to try to listen more for characters speaking to me throughout the day. Thanks for sharing your techniques!
January 23, 2021 at 1:01 pm
Meli Glickman
Oh the power of prompts! Thanks for sharing this inspiring message!
January 23, 2021 at 1:02 pm
bevbaird
Such an inspiring post – thanks for all the wonderful suggestions to help us hatch ideas. Loved hearing about how your books began.
January 23, 2021 at 1:02 pm
Jennifer Blanck
I think a phrase works for me most often. I have one running through my head that needs a story. I’ll keep your journey in mind as I explore it. Thank you!
January 23, 2021 at 1:03 pm
Colleen Owen Murphy
These are all food for thought and hopefully I can ruminate on them and come up with a tasty treat! Thank you!
January 23, 2021 at 1:04 pm
Rebster
Your ideas and books sound great! Thanks for the inspiration, Rosie!
January 23, 2021 at 1:04 pm
Joni Hay Patras
Hi Rosie! Thanks for sharing your writing techniques. Congrats on your success!
January 23, 2021 at 1:05 pm
Poupette
Food for thought, thank you, and “The school of failure was located in the middle of nowhere, but it was the center of everything,” is such an evocative sentence. It perfectly describes my sister’s old school in the Mallorcan countryside…
January 23, 2021 at 1:09 pm
Nancy Ferguson
Wow! Thank you Rosie for the ideas and the encouragement to “kill your darlings”. It’s so hard to do, yet you’ve done it and survived! Thrived!
January 23, 2021 at 1:11 pm
Dawn Prochovnic
Thanks for the great ideas about how you come up with your ideas! Congrats on all of your successes.
January 23, 2021 at 1:14 pm
LeeAnn Rizzuti
Thanks for the idea generating prompts, Rosie. Looking forward to checking out your books.
January 23, 2021 at 1:18 pm
Heather Rowley
Oh those little darlings! I can relate. Thanks for your wonderful post!
January 23, 2021 at 1:23 pm
martyfindley
I often have a phrase that pops into my head and ends up as a manuscript. Nothing published yet but I’m forever hopeful. Hmmm! “forever hopeful”-might be a good story idea!
Thank you for your ideas to get the creative juices flowing!
January 23, 2021 at 1:24 pm
Alice Fulfione
Thanks for the super suggestions on how to jumpstart story ideas!
January 23, 2021 at 1:25 pm
Cheryl L Kula
Thanks for sharing
January 23, 2021 at 1:26 pm
heatherbell37
Love the thought that ideas can come in so many ways. Thank you for sharing!
January 23, 2021 at 1:28 pm
Jessica Coupé
Thank you for your tips!
January 23, 2021 at 1:28 pm
Nicole Loos Miller
Great post! Thank you so much for sharing your brainstorming tips, Rosie!
January 23, 2021 at 1:32 pm
Sherri Jones Rivers
Wow. Amazing how quickly you get your stories ready for publication. You have given us some good ways to add to our story idea storehouse.
January 23, 2021 at 1:32 pm
Aimee Satterlee
A theme, a phrase, a prompt…these are great ideas for generating ideas! Thanks so much, Rosie!
January 23, 2021 at 1:32 pm
Aimee Haburjak
What an invigorating and playful post! I love your openness to your ‘muse’.
Thank you for sharing these tips. Big congrats on your most recent book sale and Sunday Rain!
January 23, 2021 at 1:33 pm
Melisa Wrex
Thanks for these nuggets. Any sparks help and I love filing them away for days when the well runs dry.
January 23, 2021 at 1:36 pm
Julie Maria Harris
Thank you so much for sharing where you find your inspiration!
January 23, 2021 at 1:46 pm
kmajor2013
Great suggestions for generating story ideas, Rosie! I especially enjoy coming up with phrases or doing prompts that take you on a journey of discovery! Thanks so much for sharing some of your process!
January 23, 2021 at 1:48 pm
Darcee A. Freier
Prompts have been a major source of story ideas for me. Thanks for giving us a glimpse into your process. Yay! for two upcoming books! I’ll be watching for them.
January 23, 2021 at 1:49 pm
marynadoughty
I love the idea of a fun phrase becoming a picture book! Thank you for the tips, Rosie!
-Maryna Doughty
January 23, 2021 at 1:50 pm
Shirley Ng-Benitez
Congratulations on all of your stories!
January 23, 2021 at 1:55 pm
Suzanne Lewis
Thanks for these great story prompters, Rosie! Themes and phrases are often the kernels for my ideas, and they definitely grow into stories with a good amount of imaginative watering!
January 23, 2021 at 1:57 pm
yvonne pearson
A phrase haunting you resonates for me.
January 23, 2021 at 1:57 pm
Bonnie Kelso
Congrats, Rosie! Thank you for your contribution to storystorm. I will start listening for those phrases to reveal themselves to me! 🙂
January 23, 2021 at 1:59 pm
annette schottenfeld
Hi Rosie! Such great prompts! I’ve also had story ideas stem from reading/seeing items in the news, listening to children around me, and remembering moments from my childhood (as you did with Sunday Rain)!
January 23, 2021 at 2:00 pm
Patti Ranson
Your ideas bring to mind Sunday Rain. Ideas are just like raindrops, they’re all around you. Just step, touch a few and see what happens;)
January 23, 2021 at 2:00 pm
Linda Sakai
Thanks for sharing your writing methods of madness! Love your ideas and will carry them with me in finding ideas and sticking to them.
January 23, 2021 at 2:00 pm
andynarwhal
I too have felt the pang of killing the darling that inspired the story in the first place. Great post!
January 23, 2021 at 2:05 pm
Krista Legge
I like to build off of a theme… many of my stories started as a theme idea
January 23, 2021 at 2:07 pm
JEN Garrett
Yes, to all three ways! Also, when I overhear a kid talking, or a moment I can’t get out of my head, or… when you get the idea. 😉
January 23, 2021 at 2:08 pm
Carrie Tillotson
Sorry you had to kill your darling, but The School of Failure sounds great!
January 23, 2021 at 2:16 pm
matthewlasley
I find the key difference between an idea and a good one is finding that one thing and giving it time to develop. I love how a line, a word or a phrase can build into a full story.
January 23, 2021 at 2:16 pm
Marilyn Wolpin
Thank you for your inspirational post. Sometimes I get ideas when I go down a rabbit hole on the internet. Searching for info on one thing leads to another thing and so on. This is fun isn’t it? Thanks again.
January 23, 2021 at 2:17 pm
Sarah Hetu-Radny
Great post thank you!
January 23, 2021 at 2:18 pm
vgraboski61gmailcom
Great inspiration and ideas! Thank you. Looking forward to reading your books!
January 23, 2021 at 2:21 pm
Renee Choy
Thank you so much for these helpful tips! Sunday Rain sounds like a lovely book!
January 23, 2021 at 2:22 pm
Pamela Haskin
Thanks for the great tips! Whenever I’m able to visit bookstores and libraries – you remember the days before Covid, right? – I eavesdrop on children as they look for new books. It’s a great way to pick up phrases. That and their honest opinions of what they like or not. Thanks for sharing with us and for a chance to win your new book.
January 23, 2021 at 2:24 pm
Amanda
Thank you sharing how you get ideas, but also how many of them morph into something better after revision.
January 23, 2021 at 2:28 pm
Sara Ackerman
Thank you for sharing!
January 23, 2021 at 2:28 pm
Maria Marshall
Rosie, what a great post. Love all the tantalizing hints of what you have to come. I’ve found themes and phrases (some that appear at the silliest of times) to be what mostly spurs my stories. Though a magazine prompt spurred my most recent NF. Congrats on Sunday Rain and your other books!
January 23, 2021 at 2:30 pm
jenabenton
I love the prompt idea. Thanks!
January 23, 2021 at 2:32 pm
Phaea Crede - Jet the Cat (Is Not a Cat) author (@PhaeaCrede)
Very inspirational! Thank you 🙂
January 23, 2021 at 2:34 pm
Sallye O'Rourke
i’m inspired!
January 23, 2021 at 2:36 pm
Judie
Your prompt has prompted me. Thanks!
January 23, 2021 at 2:37 pm
tracivw
Some more great techniques for idea farming. Thank you! Congratulations on your new books. So exciting!
January 23, 2021 at 2:42 pm
cmochowski
The willingness to be open and receptive is something I appreciate. It’s so interesting that your childhood memory is what poured (no pun intended) out of you. Maybe tapping into that source more often is the trick.
January 23, 2021 at 2:44 pm
pathaap
Thanks for sharing your three techniques to finding/developing an idea, especially the theme technique!
January 23, 2021 at 2:47 pm
lavern15
I get ideas the same way you do! I typically get them from a theme and it taps me on my shoulder and other places and from a phrase. I don’t have any published stories yet but I’m remaining hopeful! Thanks for the tips Rosie! Good luck on future stories.
January 23, 2021 at 2:48 pm
beckylevine
This post is sparking a lot of thoughts. Thank you!
January 23, 2021 at 2:50 pm
Joyce Uglow
Rosie, the notion of writing a picture book from a wishlist comment is intriguing. You’re so fortunate to be able to work with the amazing Helen Wu!
January 23, 2021 at 2:51 pm
marty
Thank you, Rosie! I am inspired by your three muse inviting ways to get ideas to come by.
Thank you, Tara, for your ever giving bloggers that participate in Storystorm.
January 23, 2021 at 2:52 pm
Joyce Uglow
Congratulations!
January 23, 2021 at 2:54 pm
Tanja Bauerle
I am in love with that image of the singing donkeys! Thank you for sharing. Hugs. T
January 23, 2021 at 2:54 pm
Rozana Rajkumari
Thank you for the great tips!
January 23, 2021 at 2:58 pm
Lauren Hidalgo
Loved this. I work really well with prompts too.
January 23, 2021 at 2:58 pm
Christine Van Zandt, author of A BRIEF HISTORY OF UNDERPANTS
I just had to laugh and groan in sympathy at how your amazing opening sentence ended up being cut. Been there, cut that. Thanks for sharing!
January 23, 2021 at 2:59 pm
Susan Jobsky
Stories pop from the most unexpected sources. I write some story ideas from beginning to end and others remain an idea or a line in my journal for years before they finally morph into full fledged story. I penciled a few ideas in my journal this morning. Which way will the ideas wander? Where will they finally go? Who knows?
January 23, 2021 at 2:59 pm
Jennifer Phillips
Thanks so much for the examples of prompts that have proven fruitful for you. Definitely gave me some new ideas. Congrats on your books!
January 23, 2021 at 3:00 pm
tasha woodson
took me a while to complete this post – it sparked so much in my brain! thank you for the suggestions.
January 23, 2021 at 3:06 pm
Shelli
Having a phrase or a character’s voice show up is such a gift. I use prompts often for short stories but have never tried them for a picture book. Thanks!
January 23, 2021 at 3:09 pm
Amy H
I love that you worked with a crit partner battering around prompts to fit for a publisher. very concrete–not waiting for it to drop from the heavens!
January 23, 2021 at 3:11 pm
Elizabeth Moore
Thank you, I learned a lot about giving up that opening sentence. I have struggled with that too. Now I can give myself permission to let them go when they need to without feeling like I am being untrue to the story.
January 23, 2021 at 3:11 pm
Sarah Lynne John
Thank you, Rosie! I will try all these ideas!
January 23, 2021 at 3:14 pm
Roberta Gibson
I’ve had some success with prompts, but not phrases or themes. Will have to give those a try. Sounds like you have a wonderful critique group.
January 23, 2021 at 3:15 pm
Joyce
Thank you for bringing us back to the Muse and reminding us how we can welcome it. Your books sound wonderful, Rosie!
January 23, 2021 at 3:16 pm
Marla Yablon
Thanks for your examples and suggestions. I just remembered an in the moment memory that I’m going to write down now!
January 23, 2021 at 3:16 pm
ptnozell
Thanks for sharing your most successful strategies for story idea generation, Rosie.
January 23, 2021 at 3:20 pm
donnacangelosi
Great tips, Rosie! It’s inspiring to read how your ideas came about and how they transformed. Looking forward to reading your books!
January 23, 2021 at 3:24 pm
Kathy Crable
Thanks for your words of inspiration! You books are lovely!
January 23, 2021 at 3:29 pm
Carol Gwin Nelson
Thanks for the ideas!
January 23, 2021 at 3:37 pm
rosihollinbeck
It’s a great idea to read the publishers’ wish lists and try to write a story to match. Thanks for a great post.
January 23, 2021 at 3:39 pm
SHANNA SILVA
Your 3 techniques work for me, too, although I hadn’t formally identified them. Thank you!
January 23, 2021 at 3:41 pm
Gretchen McLellan
Hi Rosie, puddle jumper. I love getting caught in the rain! Congrats on Sunday Rain and the rest of your growing canon and what you bring to kids in all your literacy roles!
The tips are great, especially using an editor’s wish list as a prompt. I’m new to 12X12 this year and will surely try that out a time or two.
Thanks for sharing your meandering path to final story–that is in itself freeing and inspirational. I hope you can use that beautiful sentence somewhere!
January 23, 2021 at 3:44 pm
Jennifer Rathe
Thanks for sharing all your advice!
January 23, 2021 at 3:48 pm
Ashley Sierra (@AshleySierra06)
Great ideas. I don’t think any of my stories came about in the same way.
January 23, 2021 at 3:49 pm
Teresa Rodrigues
Great tips, Rosie, and congrats on your upcoming books! Lines of dialogue often come to me first, too. 🙂
January 23, 2021 at 4:01 pm
lisakhan9
Great hearing about your journey. Very best wishes x
January 23, 2021 at 4:02 pm
mariearden
Standing at the sink, making the bed, walking the dog – that’s how story ideas slide in sideways, often as a phrase, seldom full-blown. Always have to work hard to do that part.
January 23, 2021 at 4:03 pm
Susannah Crispe
It sounds like your brain is a fountain of ideas! Thank you for the tips and inspiration.
January 23, 2021 at 4:09 pm
Marlena Leach
I have to carry paper and pencil with me all the time. Ideas pop into my constantly. Thanks for your tips, Rosie.
January 23, 2021 at 4:09 pm
bgonsar
Thanks for the tips Rosie!
January 23, 2021 at 4:09 pm
Lydia Lukidis
Love these 3 techniques, thanks for the insight!
January 23, 2021 at 4:10 pm
chardixon47
“…there isn’t just one process…” Thank you, Rosie, for this insightful look into your idea process. I came up with a couple of ideas after reading your tried-and-true techniques. Theme and Prompt shouted at me 🙂 Congratulations on your forthcoming books!
January 23, 2021 at 4:12 pm
Sara Habte
I loved your ideas. Thank you so much!
January 23, 2021 at 4:17 pm
Krista Harrington
Wonderful post, Rosie! THank you!
January 23, 2021 at 4:19 pm
Lisa Billa
Thanks for the great tips, and the reminder that the original line might not even be needed in the final story. I look forward to your books!
January 23, 2021 at 4:23 pm
8catpaws
A phrase just popped into my head after reading your post (and post-election): “It’s Never too Late.” It’s never too late for lots of things. thanks for the prompt!
January 23, 2021 at 4:26 pm
Meg
Prompts have been really helpful in developing ideas that turn into stories!
January 23, 2021 at 4:29 pm
Abby Wooldridge
Thank you for sharing these tips, Rosie! A theme, a phrase, a prompt. What great ideas! Thanks for sharing your darling examples, too. They led you to your stories, and then went on their merry way. I loved your line about the school of failure! I’m sure it was hard to cut, but you followed some great advice I heard at a writer’s conference once: you have to love your story more than you love your words. I’m so glad that line led you to your story–and that you got to share it with all of us! Thanks so much for a fantastic post! 🙂
January 23, 2021 at 4:30 pm
Jennifer Weisse
Wonderful tips! I often use prompts from a writing group I belong to, to generate ideas. Thank you for sharing. Your books sound wonderful!
January 23, 2021 at 4:32 pm
mjmeyer06
Seeing theses tips on paper made me realize I’ve used these ideas at one time or another. Thanks for your insight.
January 23, 2021 at 4:34 pm
Lauren Barbieri
I loved hearing the backstories of your stories! Congratulations on your upcoming books!
January 23, 2021 at 4:37 pm
Judy Sobanski
Thank you for the tips. I’m sure they all will help to inspire stories!
January 23, 2021 at 4:39 pm
DaNeil Olson
Love your suggestions – thank you!
January 23, 2021 at 4:40 pm
Angie
Great suggestions! After reading the first one, several phrases popped into my mind. Love it! Thank you! Congrats on the new books!
January 23, 2021 at 4:42 pm
kimpfenn
Love these tips especially the challenge of an idea of a story capturing a moment!
January 23, 2021 at 4:43 pm
kimpfenn
Love these tips especially the challenge of capturing a moment! Thank you!
January 23, 2021 at 4:45 pm
kiralee strong
Your books look so beautiful 🤩 great advice for finding inspiration, thank you
January 23, 2021 at 4:46 pm
Susie Sawyer
Hi Rosie! Thanks so much for sharing your ideas! I often hear a character speak to me and I have no idea who they are or what they want. I often have a catchy title pop into my head too, and then I build a story around it. Congratulations on all your publications, and thanks again!
January 23, 2021 at 4:48 pm
Vickie McEntire
Thank you for the ideas! I love that Sunday Rain came from a prompt that brought a childhood memory to it’s rightful place–in a children’s book!
January 23, 2021 at 4:51 pm
Lynn Alpert
Thanks for the tips!
January 23, 2021 at 4:57 pm
authordebradaugherty
Thanks, Rosie, for sharing your method for PB ideas. I can relate with you on revisions, and how the story you started with changes with each draft.
January 23, 2021 at 5:01 pm
andreesantini
So interesting to hear how some of your stories started and morphed from the original seed. Thanks for sharing, off to think of themes, prompts, and phrases.
January 23, 2021 at 5:08 pm
rindabeach
It’s good to know there’s more than one way into story magic. Thanks for sharing each journey!
January 23, 2021 at 5:09 pm
paulajbecker
Congrats on so many books and ideas, as well as sharing some of your methods!
January 23, 2021 at 5:22 pm
catherine owen
My brain works like this too, a drop-in …
January 23, 2021 at 5:34 pm
Stephanie Wildman
Congratulations on Sunday Rain and School of Failure. I feel your pain in having to kill your darlings. Thanks for the helpful tips.
January 23, 2021 at 5:35 pm
Deborah Williams
I love it that you were bold and made up a story to fit the editor. And that it all worked out, in a way other than how you first hoped!
January 23, 2021 at 5:37 pm
Rona Shirdan
I often have little spurts of ideas while in the shower too! Thanks for the post!
January 23, 2021 at 5:44 pm
Dayne Sislen, Children's Book Illustrator
Thank you Rosie, It’s funny to hear the very lines of the story that gave you inspiration were edited out. I see that happen so often with the authors I illustrate for.
January 23, 2021 at 5:44 pm
tinefg
Thanks so much for sharing part of your process Rosie, seems there are almost as many ways to spark story ideas as there are ideas. Phrases sparking ideas has been my muse’s favorite lately … there’s just something about the way words play off of one another, it’s magic!
January 23, 2021 at 5:45 pm
Sara Matson
Thank you for sharing these interesting excerpt from your writing journey!
January 23, 2021 at 5:51 pm
Lynn Baldwin
Great post. Inspiration is everywhere!
January 23, 2021 at 5:53 pm
Garnett Natasha
Thank you, Rosie. You’ve got me thinking. A prompt has never worked for me. But yes, a phrase or a theme! And sometimes a name, the cutest or zaniest, or most thought provoking, can kickstart a whole story.
January 23, 2021 at 5:56 pm
kathalsey
Woot, congrats on your books and the newest, Rosie! Fun to explore how the that starts the book doesn’t always make it into the book. But it served it’s purpose. Ty for sharing your process!
January 23, 2021 at 6:07 pm
David McMullin
Excellent. Thank you, Rosie!
January 23, 2021 at 6:10 pm
Catherine Morgans
All great reminders Rosie, to capture the words that resonate and let them grow.
January 23, 2021 at 6:13 pm
Catherine Morgans
All great reminders Rosie, to capture the words that resonate and let them grow. Thank you
January 23, 2021 at 6:23 pm
Sharon Lillie
Thanks, I need all the help I can get.
January 23, 2021 at 6:25 pm
Susan Eyerman
Inspiration can be found in so many places. We just have to be open to look for it. Thank you.
January 23, 2021 at 6:25 pm
Kaye Baillie
I love your examples, Rosie! Brilliant!
January 23, 2021 at 6:35 pm
Leslie Tayloe
Thank you for great suggestions!
January 23, 2021 at 6:42 pm
Sue Heavenrich
I love prompts! Thanks for the inspiration.
January 23, 2021 at 6:43 pm
Lori Dubbin
Rosie, congratulations on your beautiful books. Thank you for sharing where ideas lurk.
January 23, 2021 at 6:45 pm
Kathy Mazurowski
Just added more ideas to an idea that sprung from Sunday rain. Thanks for the spark
January 23, 2021 at 6:45 pm
Dannielle Viera
Ideas often come to me while I’m doing something mundane. Thanks for the information, Rosie!
January 23, 2021 at 6:47 pm
Amanda Malek-Ahmadi
Thank you for sharing those ideas. My ideas get writtien down but then often all of a sudden an idea that has been floating around for a long time will just pop up and begin to flood my paper, coming out faster than I can write sometimes.
I loved reading your bio and what you aim to teach and do as an author. Congrats on your upcoming books.
January 23, 2021 at 7:00 pm
authorlaurablog
I love the school of failure sentence! Beautifully worded!
January 23, 2021 at 7:01 pm
Pamela Brunskill
Thanks for all of your tips, Rosie! Congrats on your recent sales and book publications. Love the theme idea for SARAH’S SONG.
January 23, 2021 at 7:07 pm
dedradavis03
I love to include my inspiration for stories when sending manuscripts to my CPs! I think it makes the story deeper! Thank you for sharing yours with us!
January 23, 2021 at 7:08 pm
Jilanne Hoffmann
Thanks, Rosie, for not only sharing the ideas that sparked your stories, but also showing us where those stories ended up….sometimes without their original lines. Yes, show those darlings the door if they’re no longer serving the story. Thank you!
January 23, 2021 at 7:17 pm
Lyn Miller-Lachmann
Thank you for these tips, and congratulations on your new and forthcoming books!
January 23, 2021 at 7:22 pm
Chelle Martin
Thanks for your post. Good luck with your book.
January 23, 2021 at 7:34 pm
Barbara Senenman
Fabulous post with great ideas! Thank you and congratulations on your books.
January 23, 2021 at 7:44 pm
Patricia J Holloway
Congratulations on your books. I love how you can turn a line into a story! I can’t waitto read Sunday Rain!
January 23, 2021 at 7:45 pm
Patricia J Holloway
Congratulations on your books. I love how you can turn a line into a story! I can’t wait to buy and read Sunday Rain!
January 23, 2021 at 7:48 pm
Diane O'Neill
Thanks for sharing how you find ideas! Themes, phrases, and prompts are great ways–thanks for the reminder. I’ve found that phrases have helped me with idea for poems–I’m going to remember this for picture books, too. Thanks!
January 23, 2021 at 7:49 pm
Hank Dallago
Rosie, I leave a prompt on my desk and give it a few minutes to percolate in my imagination before going to bed. By morning, sometimes even before I see the prompt on my desk, ideas come flooding in and I write them down as fast as possible like I’m catching butterflies on a windy day. Thank you.
January 23, 2021 at 7:50 pm
Lori Sheroan
Phrases pop into my brain frequently, but I often fail to capture them. Your post has inspired me to become more diligent about writing down those random snippets.
January 23, 2021 at 7:52 pm
Diane Kress Hower
Thanks for your great post. Phrases are wonderful. I need to do a better job of writing them and just words that come to mind down!
January 23, 2021 at 7:59 pm
Karen A. Kelly Aspiring Writer/ Griever
You gave me a new idea! Thank you. It was from a tradition. Great tips!
January 23, 2021 at 8:00 pm
boardmancamera
What great ideas! And that rain….such fun!
January 23, 2021 at 8:01 pm
authoraileenstewart
Prompts are always fun! Thanks for joining Story Storm.
January 23, 2021 at 8:08 pm
Sarah Meade
Thanks so much for this inspiring and informative post, Rosie! Congrats on your new book. Looking forward to reading it.
January 23, 2021 at 8:11 pm
Kellie
Wonderful … a story that captures a moment … so many thoughts right now.
January 23, 2021 at 8:15 pm
Jan Milusich
Thanks for your suggestions Rosie!
January 23, 2021 at 8:24 pm
Genevieve Petrillo
Mom and I like your ideas about ideas. Plus I am pretty sure I like mules although I’ve never met one. Once I was afraid of the rain. So Mom bought me a raincoat. Then I was afraid of the raincoat.
Love and licks,
Cupcake
January 23, 2021 at 8:29 pm
Cathy Lentes
Great ideas, and inspiration. I love how you follow where the story leads, and needs to go.
Congratulations!🎉
January 23, 2021 at 8:35 pm
stiefelchana
Amazing Rosie! Congrats!
January 23, 2021 at 8:39 pm
janetfrencksheets
Many of my stories start with a phrase — and like you said, sometimes that original phrase doesn’t fit into the final story the way I imagined. I’d like to get better at starting with ideas, so I see the big picture right away.
January 23, 2021 at 8:45 pm
Janice Woods
Great ideas! Thank you for sharing!
January 23, 2021 at 8:46 pm
Sara Trofa
Thanks for sharing your tips, Rosie!
January 23, 2021 at 9:04 pm
Katie Williams
Great ideas, can’t wait to sit down and do some brainstorming! Thank you for sharing your process : )
January 23, 2021 at 9:10 pm
Louann Brown
Great ideas Rosie! Congratulations on your new books. (Playing in the rain was one of my favorite things to do when I was little.)
January 23, 2021 at 9:23 pm
Suzy Leopold
Thank you, Rosie, for sharing how ideas pop into your brain. My best ideas seem to come to me when I’m outside in nature.
Suzy Leopold
January 23, 2021 at 9:31 pm
Janet AlJunaidi
Congratulations on all your books! Thank you for sharing your process, Rosie!
January 23, 2021 at 9:39 pm
Maria Altizer
These are great tips. I love the idea of using publisher’s wish lists to come up with an idea. Fun ideas.
January 23, 2021 at 9:42 pm
Meredith Fraser
I so agree with you. Great ideas can not be manufactured but come to the writer in unexpected places. Thanks for the tips.
January 23, 2021 at 9:43 pm
streetlynn
Thanks for these great approaches and congratulations on all of your books! Lynn Street
January 23, 2021 at 9:45 pm
YauMei Chiang
Thank you, Rosie. A theme, a phrase, or a prompt to spark the story.
January 23, 2021 at 9:51 pm
Jenny Boyd
Congrats on your new books! I find my best ideas come from writing prompts. Plus, they’re fun and motivating, too.
January 23, 2021 at 9:57 pm
claudine108
Rosie, I love how a childhood memory sparked an idea for a book!
January 23, 2021 at 9:58 pm
Cinzia V.
Congratulations. I loved hearing about your ideas and their paths.
January 23, 2021 at 10:01 pm
steveheron
Thanks Rosie. Love the first line. ‘Every story has its own way of sneaking into my subconscious’
January 23, 2021 at 10:02 pm
kathydoherty1
Rosie, thanks for the great post. Childhood memories are the best!
January 23, 2021 at 10:06 pm
Sharon Coffey
Rosie, thank you for sharing not one but three different ways to spark ideas. Much success on your books. My senses all interact as a conduit to channel ideas to me.
January 23, 2021 at 10:07 pm
Lindsey Hobson
Fantastic advice, thank you!
January 23, 2021 at 10:09 pm
writeremmcbride
Rosie, thank you for your suggestions. Those assigned prompts are often the things that pull us out of our own way of thinking and allow us to take a new perspective. Thank you!
January 23, 2021 at 10:09 pm
seschipper
Thanks so much Rosie for sharing your journey! A theme, a phrase, a prompt..Oh My!!! 🙂
January 23, 2021 at 10:10 pm
Becky Ross Michael
Your book looks great, and I enjoyed reading about your thought process in writing!
January 23, 2021 at 10:16 pm
Linda Schueler
Three great ideas! Your books look fabulous!
January 23, 2021 at 10:22 pm
Bhandi
Thank you for sharing your journey and work. ❤ I don't really have anything else to say besides you're inspiring!
January 23, 2021 at 10:26 pm
Alicia Shawn Gagnon
Your listening tip reinforces the fact that I really, really need to put that pen and paper next to the bed. Interesting phrases often ramble through my head as I try to drift off to sleep,…thank you!
January 23, 2021 at 10:47 pm
Beatrice Brown
Thanks for sharing these ideas, Rosie. I plan to try #1 now. Ideas usually wait for me to awake each morning. I keep my journal handy and quickly jot them down.
January 23, 2021 at 10:54 pm
Sheri Graubert
Thank you SO MUCH for your three tips for generating ideas and your amazing examples of each them. They are all such a good reminder and so inspiring. I cannot wait to see what pops out of my head when I apply your suggestions. Thank you so much!!
January 23, 2021 at 10:57 pm
Trine Grillo
Thank you Rosie. More often than not it is a phrase that captures my attention.
January 23, 2021 at 11:01 pm
Megan Whitaker
I love twisting phrases to create something new. Congratulations on your successes!
January 23, 2021 at 11:15 pm
Midge Ballou Smith
Thank you for sharing your process, Rosie!
January 23, 2021 at 11:18 pm
Jane Heitman Healy
I love hearing about the sparks that fired up your books, even if that ember died in the process. Thanks for the tips and congratulations on your upcoming books!
January 23, 2021 at 11:24 pm
JillDanaBooks
“A theme… a phrase… a prompt” Thanks for sharing these tips on sparking new ideas! 🙂 Jill Dana
January 23, 2021 at 11:27 pm
ruthwilson48
I really enjoyed reading your post, Rosie. Thanks for sharing!
January 23, 2021 at 11:35 pm
savannahpalma
Thank you for sharing.
January 23, 2021 at 11:56 pm
Heather Stigall
Fantastic 3 tips–thank you, Rosie!
January 24, 2021 at 12:00 am
Kathiann Weatherbee (@WeatherbeeBooks)
Great tips! Thanks for the inspiration.
January 24, 2021 at 12:10 am
Natalie Lynn Tanner
ROSIE: THANK YOU for the reminder that story ideas don’t always come all nice and neat and tied-up with a fancy bow. It was enjoyable and TRULY INSPIRING to journey with you through the tools and examples you provided. I especially LOVE seeing how the ideas were first inspired, took shape, and then in many cases, COMPLETELY changed. WONDERFUL reminder to follow those first little kernels of ideas–never knowing where they might lead. THANK YOU!!!
January 24, 2021 at 12:12 am
ingridboydston
I’m amazed that you write ideas specifically for certain publishers. That’s amazing to me. Thank you for sharing!
January 24, 2021 at 12:37 am
Renner Writes (@barbararenner)
What fabulous ideas! Thank you. I’m writing a story now that has a word my dad used to say. I hope my critique partners don’t cut it – lol! I loved reading about how you create stories.
January 24, 2021 at 12:44 am
Christine M Irvin
Ya never know when/where/how an story idea might come to you and you never know when/where/how it might actually get used. Thanks for your experiences.
January 24, 2021 at 12:48 am
Annie War
Very interesting way of targeting certain publishers.
January 24, 2021 at 12:59 am
Michelle S. Kennedy (@MichelleSKenned)
Writing prompts are the best! They always give me a good kick of creativity, especially if pushed with a deadline. KI guess that’s why I like contests so much! Thank you for sharing a bit of your writing journey with us!
January 24, 2021 at 1:01 am
carmelamccainsimmons
Love the story of how you wrote Sunday Rain and then found a home for it at another publisher! Thanks for the encouragement!
January 24, 2021 at 1:20 am
Eileen Mayo
Thanks for the inspiration! Great tips!
January 24, 2021 at 1:34 am
Lori Gibson
Great ideas to keep in mind! Thank you.
January 24, 2021 at 1:56 am
A Brewer
What warm and friendly stories you have, thank you.
January 24, 2021 at 2:11 am
Jeannette Suhr
Thanks for your reminder that the idea for a story can come from anywhere and that we need to be receptive to it. A recent one for me came from an image I had of a lonely child at a playground. And voila! A new book. Possibilities are endless if we keep our eyes and ears open to them. Thank you!
January 24, 2021 at 2:29 am
Deborah W. Trotter
Thank you for your idea-hatching tips. My ideas often come to me as an image even though I’m not an illustrator, and sometimes that develops into a story.
January 24, 2021 at 2:58 am
Cindy S
Great ideas. Thanks
January 24, 2021 at 3:03 am
rjtraxel
Sunday Rain sounds like a fun read!
January 24, 2021 at 3:55 am
sjreading7
Brilliant tips, thank you! Just what I need to get going right now 🙂
January 24, 2021 at 3:55 am
sjreading7
Brilliant tips, thank you! Just what I need to get going right now 🙂
January 24, 2021 at 5:04 am
Aly Kenna
Great tips Rosie. Thank you for sharing. A lot of my stories have been inspired the same way as yours, i.e. a theme, a phrase, a prompt. Good luck with the new releases.
January 24, 2021 at 5:34 am
Marge Gower
Thanks for your ideas. They have helped me to feel that even a silly idea can produce results. I am finding it easier to jot down those unusual ideas and not feel they are too strange to be used. I do appreciate Storystorm each year. Thank you
January 24, 2021 at 5:45 am
Jo Martin
Thank you Rosie. I often start with theme- something I want to say or share with the world. Those stories seem to flow because they come from something inside that I feel a deep connection with. I’m also more motivated to sit down and write them. Looking forward to reading your books.
January 24, 2021 at 6:47 am
mona861
Great post, Rosie. I love how you find your prompts, or…how they find you. Can’t wait to read Sunday Rain. I adore the title and what fun I might find between the covers. I still love to “play” in a warm rain. Thank you for this.
January 24, 2021 at 7:26 am
Sharon E. Langley
Thank you! It’s always good to have more ways to brainstorm ideas.
January 24, 2021 at 7:39 am
Freda Lewkowicz
Thank you for the practical advice on brainstorming ideas.
January 24, 2021 at 7:41 am
Blair Ortman
Great tips! Thank you for sharing!
January 24, 2021 at 7:55 am
Susan Drew
Thank you for sharing your process with us!
January 24, 2021 at 8:41 am
Patricia Alcaro
Thank you for taking the time to share with us.
January 24, 2021 at 9:28 am
Cristina Raymer
Thank you so much for these tips and ideas!
January 24, 2021 at 9:46 am
Amy Houts
Thanks for sharing your process and practical ideas!
January 24, 2021 at 10:16 am
58chilihed13
Lost a day and had to backtrack, thanks for the tips!
January 24, 2021 at 10:24 am
Becky Falkum
I often have trouble getting rid of my favorite lines in my drafts…especially the ones that inspired the idea in the first place. I love that you’ve been through this, too. Those lines were needed at that early stage, even if they don’t make it into the final. Thank you for sharing your experience!
January 24, 2021 at 10:32 am
teacherwriteracker
I love the true to life struggle of nixing a favorite line. Thanks for sharing.
January 24, 2021 at 10:41 am
iefaber
Ugh, cutting your favorite line. So difficult but true. I had an idea once that came from a dream and revolved around a character who didn’t make it into the finished story. It took LOADS of revisions till I made that choice. It was painful but necessary. Glad I’m not the only one who selfishly holds onto the original ideas.
January 24, 2021 at 10:44 am
Zoraida Rivera
I got three ideas with your “theme technique”. Thanks, Rosie. I’ll be on the lookout for phrases now! Much success in this new year.
January 24, 2021 at 10:44 am
Laurel Ranveig Abell
So many murdered darlings in the writing industry! Congrats on being willing to make the cuts (or wait) when necessary. Great helps here, too. Thanks!
January 24, 2021 at 11:00 am
Mary Warth
Thanks for sharing your way into stories Rosie! You post is inspiring.
January 24, 2021 at 11:02 am
bookthreader
Thanks for the ideas!
Moni
January 24, 2021 at 11:02 am
claireannette1
Great suggestions, Rosie. Your post shows why we should always have pen and paper nearby. I am counting down the days to be able to read and review Sunday Rain.
January 24, 2021 at 11:07 am
Teresa Daffern
Wow. Thank you Rosie. I love that inspiration visits you during task like dishwashing. Me too! Wonderful post!
January 24, 2021 at 11:28 am
Tania
FABULOUS!
January 24, 2021 at 11:57 am
Jennifer May
I loved playing in the rain! Thanks for the reminder to look in my past for stories.
January 24, 2021 at 11:58 am
lauriekaiserwrites
Rosie, I love that you are working with kids in Dallas — my hometown! I now live in Buffalo, NY but grew up in Dallas and Richardson and wonder what it’s like today. Terrific and inspiring post overall. Thanks!
January 24, 2021 at 12:08 pm
Stephanie Gibeault
Great post, Rosie! Thank you for sharing your brainstorming tips and your story about killing your darlings. I can relate!
January 24, 2021 at 12:20 pm
deirdreprischmann
Thanks for the advice!
January 24, 2021 at 12:41 pm
Brenda Flowers
Rosie, thank you for sharing specific examples of how several of your stories were sparked and transformed. Very helpful post!
January 24, 2021 at 12:54 pm
Mary Ann Blair
I often will get ideas in my sleep or right when I wake up, a thought will occur. Also, my kids are great sources of inspiration. Great article, thank you!
January 24, 2021 at 1:00 pm
Julie Augensen-Rand
Thanks for prompting an idea.
January 24, 2021 at 1:18 pm
Joan Swanson
Thank you for your process of getting ideas and turning them into heart felt stories everyone will love!
January 24, 2021 at 1:26 pm
claireflewis
Great tips – thank you!
January 24, 2021 at 1:29 pm
Stephen S. Martin
My Muse is A-Musing, when she does show up from her Tea Party.
January 24, 2021 at 1:48 pm
Andrew Hacket
Great strategies!
January 24, 2021 at 1:49 pm
FrannyG
Really useful tips, thanks. I got three ideas while reading your post!
January 24, 2021 at 1:59 pm
Kate Carroll
Thanks for showing how the invisible “idea” is luring us to discovery. Your post prompted me to heighten my awareness when going about my day.
so helpful!
January 24, 2021 at 2:00 pm
Marcie Mahuta
Thank you for sharing & the reminder that the initial inspiration may be no where in the final product & that’s ok 🙂
January 24, 2021 at 2:13 pm
Katie Schwartz
Thank you for sharing, love finding out the many ways/places a story can start! Also how it often changes from inception to final product!
January 24, 2021 at 2:16 pm
Dee Knabb
I loved hearing how your ideas are born and nurtured in different ways. Thanks, Rosie
January 24, 2021 at 2:17 pm
Dawn Young
💛Thank you for your words of wisdom.💛
January 24, 2021 at 2:21 pm
clairebobrow
Having to cut that one special sentence in The School of Failure must have been so hard, but it’s a predicament that resonates and carries a valuable lesson. Thank you for sharing, Rosie, and congrats on your forthcoming books!
January 24, 2021 at 2:54 pm
Carolyn Bennett Fraiser
Oh no – that one sentence! I wanted to shout, “Don’t cut it!” But I know you had to. I’ve had to do the same. Cut whole lines, paragraphs, chapters. It hurts. But it’s also freeing — like dancing in the rain! Can’t wait to read it!
January 24, 2021 at 3:04 pm
Cassie Bentley
Sharing your process for each book is inspiring. Each book has a story behind the story. Thank you for sharing.
January 24, 2021 at 3:24 pm
Beth Stilborn
Thank you for these great tips, Rosie. Especially I thank you for sharing how cutting those beloved sentences led to making the story what it was meant to be. I sometimes have trouble axing my favorite turns of phrase — I will remind myself of this post next time I know something needs to go.
January 24, 2021 at 3:24 pm
womanwifemotherchild
Thanks for the inspiration!
January 24, 2021 at 3:26 pm
Janet Smart
Thank you so much. You’ve given me ideas!
January 24, 2021 at 3:42 pm
Leah Moser
Great post. Thank you for the inspiration!
January 24, 2021 at 3:53 pm
rhumba20
Thank you Rosie! What an interesting and inspiring post. I enjoyed reading about your process. Congratulations on your books!
Anna Levin
January 24, 2021 at 4:11 pm
Kathryn Cunningham
Thanks for the wisdom!
January 24, 2021 at 4:11 pm
LAURA BARENS
Thank you for the inspiring post! My grandchildren raise chickens, which have hatched some new ideas for me!
January 24, 2021 at 4:50 pm
Kathleen B.
Thank you. I also often think of phrases and themes, and it’s encouraging to hear how you use these to create.
January 24, 2021 at 4:52 pm
Krista Maxwell
Thanks for the great ideas!
January 24, 2021 at 5:09 pm
Evelyn Bookless
A terrific post Rosie! I loved reading about the ‘Mule mulling’ and the importance of sometimes axing the very lines that get us started. Writing is a funny old process.
January 24, 2021 at 5:10 pm
jimchaize1
Thanks, Rosie. A few of my PB manuscripts have been inspired by a phrase.
January 24, 2021 at 5:15 pm
Monica A. Harris
Phrases and overheard conversations with kids gets me EVERYTIME!
January 24, 2021 at 5:16 pm
claudia sloan
Thanks for the tips and congrats on your upcoming book!
January 24, 2021 at 5:21 pm
EmmieRWerner
Thank you for your writing ideas❤️
January 24, 2021 at 5:32 pm
Jill Lambert (@LJillLambert)
I’ve written down a few phrases that may be sparks for stories. Thanks for a terrific post, Rosie!
January 24, 2021 at 5:43 pm
Carol Gordon Ekster
Congrats on your picture book successes and thanks for sharing some inspiration!
January 24, 2021 at 5:48 pm
Debbie Meyer
Thank you for all the advice & tips, Rosie. I’ve been struggling coming up with my StoryStorm ideas this year. I’m going to listen to my muse. 🙂
January 24, 2021 at 5:49 pm
Sarah Stuart
Thank you for sharing these ideas! I’m looking forward to reading Sunday Rain. Congratulations on your success!
January 24, 2021 at 6:03 pm
Shannon Fossett
Thank you for sharing your ideas! I also appreciated hearing that although an idea or phrase started a book, it might not always make it to the end revision. It is sometimes hard to let go, and you showed this is part of the process.
January 24, 2021 at 6:29 pm
Vera Lisa Smetzer
It’s true, this month story ideas have come from many different places. Phrases and themes seem to be most prevalent!
January 24, 2021 at 6:31 pm
Allison W.
Your blog tickled my imagination and I just added 3 new ideas to my StoryStorm list…thank you!!
January 24, 2021 at 6:32 pm
robincurrie1
Great idea to use a phrase – or animal sound!
January 24, 2021 at 7:02 pm
Elizabeth Duncan
Thanks for sharing your ideas. Ideas can come from so many different sources.
January 24, 2021 at 7:07 pm
Joy Pitcairn
Great ideas! Thanks for sharing!
January 24, 2021 at 7:11 pm
andikate
Thank you for your post–you gave me some different ideas to try!
January 24, 2021 at 7:12 pm
Wendy
Like you, my ideas come from different places. Making myself clear my mind and “let the voices talk” is key. Thanks for prompting us, Rosie!
January 24, 2021 at 7:18 pm
Jayne Wilson
Oh Rosie thank you ever so much for your post! So simple & funnily enough these are the 3 things I do all the time yet I didn’t know I did them. I’ve got so many ideas for stories out of something the children in my class say. I even say to the children ‘Ohhhhh I have to write that down’ when I hear a good one & do it in front of my children. I always put the child’s name next to who said something. What was really exciting for me was that one story idea I wrote down had a little girl go home & write that very story & it was breathtakingly beautiful. This prompted another little girl to write her version too. As a teacher my heart was full! Thanks so much for giving me these beautiful memories from last year!
January 24, 2021 at 7:23 pm
Pat Trattles
Great ideas. Thanks for sharing
January 24, 2021 at 7:27 pm
Angela De Groot
Thanks, Rosie. Your 3 tried-and-true tips helped me generate 3 new ideas.
January 24, 2021 at 7:30 pm
rgstones
Thank you! I can’t wait to read Sunday Rain.
January 24, 2021 at 7:36 pm
marshaelyn
Your three simple top-three-tips will inspire us as we dig in to find our next stories. Thank you, Rosie! I’m revising my YA novel right now and those character voices keep me up at night. LOL. Sending you energy and inspiration for your continued success…
January 24, 2021 at 8:07 pm
writersideup
Rosie, I actually come up with ideas in basically the same way, and this post was a joy to read! I’m VERY curious about what that mule was mulling over 😉
January 24, 2021 at 8:23 pm
ramonapersaudwrites
I feel your pain on having to cut that line…it’s a great line. Hopefully you’re able to use it (or a version of it) in another story 🙂
January 24, 2021 at 8:32 pm
kirstenbockblog
Thank you for all of the helpful tips!
January 24, 2021 at 8:42 pm
Heather Kelso
Congratulations on your books!
Thank you for your three tips. I will try them right now.
January 24, 2021 at 9:36 pm
Manju Beth Howard (@ManjuBeth)
Hi Rosie! The School of Failure sounds like a terrific concept. Thanks for sharing!
January 24, 2021 at 9:55 pm
Cheryl Johnson
Love hearing the journey of your books! Great tips.
January 24, 2021 at 10:33 pm
Dina Ticas
Thank you for the great encouragement–hearing your experience made me feel hopeful.
January 24, 2021 at 10:36 pm
CindyC
Rosie – thanks for these great tips. And it’s great reinforcement about how important critique partners can be.
January 24, 2021 at 10:52 pm
Sheri
One of my favourite inspirational ideas is to pick a place (a room, outdoors etc.) which suggests a certain mood and use that as a starting point for story creation. A related method is to ‘limit your colour pallet’ in order to imbue your story with atmosphere.
January 24, 2021 at 10:53 pm
Julie Reich
Some of my ideas have come from words or phrases that pop into my mind. Thanks for sharing your experience.
January 24, 2021 at 11:30 pm
tinamcho
Thank you for showing us how you got your ideas. Congrats on your books!
January 24, 2021 at 11:37 pm
Rebekah Lowell
Hi Rosie, Congrats on all your books! Love the idea of a story coming from a sentence. Happy writing!
January 24, 2021 at 11:47 pm
Virginia Rinkel
Love the idea of a phrase or anything, that triggers a new beginning.
January 25, 2021 at 12:15 am
Joannie Duris
Congratulations on all your writing successes, Rosie. I enjoyed hearing the story behind your recent projects. And 3 cheers for 3 ways to collect story ideas. I’ve been drawn to themes lately, and have been checking multiple books out of the library to study mentor texts that speak to me.
January 25, 2021 at 12:45 am
Melissa Warren
Thanks for the tips. I love that you pull from different avenues when writing
January 25, 2021 at 12:46 am
paulaobering
Thanks for sharing! Love hearing the various ways you cultivate ideas!
January 25, 2021 at 1:28 am
Renata Wurster
Great ideas here. Always so neat to hear how different people find inspiration.
January 25, 2021 at 1:31 am
angiecal76
These tips are great ways to generate story ideas. Thanks for sharing, Rosie!
January 25, 2021 at 5:33 am
sylviaichen
So neat to hear how prompts and opportunities turned out for you in such an awesome way. Congrats!
January 25, 2021 at 6:58 am
acottykid
Thank you for sharing.
January 25, 2021 at 7:44 am
M.R.
When you mentioned that voices speak to you while you’re doing dishes, I said to myself, “Me, too!” I call those my “Kitchen Sink Moments.” Thank you for the inspiring tips! 🙂
January 25, 2021 at 7:50 am
Lauri Meyers
I like the idea of finding the theme first. Great tip!
January 25, 2021 at 8:45 am
Deborah Foster
Sunday Rain sparked an idea for me! Thank you!
January 25, 2021 at 8:57 am
kaitlinsikeswrites
Ideas always come at funny times! 🙂 Thanks for sharing.
January 25, 2021 at 9:38 am
syorkeviney
Love your work with children and fostering creativity! They will remember what they did with you for the rest of their lives! You are growing readers and writers, thank you for making the world a better, more joyful place!
January 25, 2021 at 9:38 am
pbbeckyk
I loved reading about how your ideas often begin by floating into your subconscious. This often happens to me too, and leads to a story I love! Thanks for all of tips on generating new ideas.
January 25, 2021 at 10:28 am
Melanie Ellsworth
Thank you, Rosie! All 3 of these methods are truly helpful.
January 25, 2021 at 10:35 am
Paige
Thank you! Puddles are pure magic!
January 25, 2021 at 10:46 am
Jenny Morales
Sunday Rain looks so sweet! I’d love a signed copy!
January 25, 2021 at 10:50 am
Jenny House
It is inspiring to read how each idea process led to a published book. Congratulations!
January 25, 2021 at 11:00 am
ejessmurray
Thank you, Rosie! I especially love the insight into your relationships w/ your CPs! It really feels like teamwork.
January 25, 2021 at 11:03 am
Nichole Bowers
Hi Rosie! A theme, a catchy phrase, a song, a name, are some of the methods that have sparked story ideas for me. It’s reassuring to know that a successful author such as yourself can fall in love with a sentence that feels like it holds the entire story together, only to realize it just doesn’t work after a zillion revisions. But the end result was sweet success. Congratulations!
Sunday Rain sounds like a sweet story. Looking forward to reading it!
January 25, 2021 at 11:16 am
Susan C.
Thank you for sharing. Your description of Sunday Rain brought back memories of my children playing in the rain in Hawai’i.
January 25, 2021 at 11:46 am
Kelly Conroy
I love hearing how stories are generated! Congratulations on all of your books!!!!
January 25, 2021 at 11:51 am
Jennifer Skene
Very interesting; thanks
January 25, 2021 at 11:55 am
allyenz
Thank you Rosie. I love that you shared using a theme or a phrase as a jumping off point for brainstorming — that is definitely how my mind works and your post gave me permission and encouragement. What a great idea to write a story with a particular published/editor in mind–even if someone else ends up acquiring it, or you just write a story you love, t’s a win! Congrats. 🙂
January 25, 2021 at 12:04 pm
Catherine
All your examples of where to find ideas are really helpful – thank you Rosie :o)
January 25, 2021 at 12:11 pm
Elizabeth Saba
Thank you Rosie. Love your books and your style.
January 25, 2021 at 12:22 pm
aidantalkin
Love hearing how other authors mine ideas! Me, I love reading book titles on the spines in the library (of books I’ve never read) to see what story sparks off it for me.
January 25, 2021 at 12:24 pm
Meldaarts
I’ve never written a story from a prompt before, I’m definitely going to try it!
January 25, 2021 at 12:28 pm
Cortney Benvenuto
Thank you for the three helpful tips!
January 25, 2021 at 1:05 pm
aliciaminor
Hard work, dedication and passion never fail. I look forward to reading your books. I wish you more. Happy new year.
January 25, 2021 at 1:19 pm
Penny Merritt
Great brainstorming ideas and methods!
January 25, 2021 at 1:28 pm
JC
Thank you Rosie, this was very helpful!
January 25, 2021 at 1:49 pm
writeknit
The perfect post for this cold snowy day! Thank you 🙂
January 25, 2021 at 2:14 pm
Shawna J. C. Tenney
These are all great ideas! Thanks for the great post!
January 25, 2021 at 2:39 pm
gattodesign
Love the ideas and prompts. Such great ways. Thanks.
January 25, 2021 at 2:56 pm
manuscriptmechanic
I loved your post and your openness and flexibility as to where your ideas might come from. You make writing picture books sound like such an adventure–and it should be!
January 25, 2021 at 3:07 pm
Michele Rietz
Rosie! Thank you and congratulations on your picture books! I can’t wait to read “Sunday Rain”. And I look forward to using your tips to find story ideas.
January 25, 2021 at 3:32 pm
Susan Schade
Thank you for sharing your tips! I love hearing your journey of how ideas become your stories. Congratulations!
January 25, 2021 at 3:42 pm
Sarah Tobias
Great tips.
January 25, 2021 at 4:12 pm
jensubra
Your books sound delightful, Rosie, and I’ll be trying some of your prompts today! Thanks!
January 25, 2021 at 4:23 pm
Kris H
I like how versatile your suggestion was!
January 25, 2021 at 4:26 pm
Debbi G
Thanks for sharing your ideas!
January 25, 2021 at 4:34 pm
Janet Halfmann
Love all your ways of letting the muse in.
January 25, 2021 at 4:49 pm
Karen Conley Chun
I loved your tips for creating new ideas and can’t wait to try them all!
January 25, 2021 at 6:08 pm
Angie Isaacs
Thanks for sharing! Angie Isaacs
January 25, 2021 at 6:25 pm
Aundra- Writing & Teaching & Parenting (@JasperSammyand)
I am always inspired by the silly phrases my kids say but my most successful stories come from prompts. I’d like to work on my theme inspiration.
January 25, 2021 at 6:34 pm
susaninez0905
Wonderful tips for getting your imagination going. Thank you!
January 25, 2021 at 7:08 pm
Daryl Gottier
Rosie, thanks for sharing. I have loads of fun alliterative phrases running through my head today.
January 25, 2021 at 7:42 pm
Megan M.
There’s nothing like summer rain! I got to introduce my nephew to rain and it’s such a good memory!
January 25, 2021 at 8:08 pm
Marci Whitehurst
Great thoughts on where to cultivate ideas & story starts. Thanks! Congrats on your books!
January 25, 2021 at 8:14 pm
Brinton Culp
Thanks for the sharing the ways you generate ideas. I’m going to brainstorm themes now!
January 25, 2021 at 9:19 pm
Stephanie Lau
Thanks for sharing your process!
January 25, 2021 at 9:33 pm
Terri Sabol
Sunday Rain sounds delightful and fun. Thanks for sharing your three tips, Rosie!
January 25, 2021 at 9:57 pm
Thelia Hutchinson
There seem to be so many methods to come up with ideas for a story. I am so fascinated and I willing to try as many to get the best story. Thank you.
January 25, 2021 at 11:02 pm
Artelle Lenthall
Story from a prompt out on submission now 🤞I’ve used themes before too. Will have to try phrases. Thanks Rosie and congratulations on your successes both published and not yet 😊
January 25, 2021 at 11:27 pm
susanfilkins
Very interesting post, thank you.
January 25, 2021 at 11:50 pm
Lisa Kingsford
Your School of Failure description had ideas floating around my head. I can’t wait to read it! Thanks for sharing your successful tips!
January 26, 2021 at 12:41 am
Devin Leatherman
I just ordered a copy of Sarah’s Song to potentially use as a mentor text for a MS I’m working on! Thanks for all the insight!
January 26, 2021 at 12:44 am
Jose Cruz
How clever to refer to the editor’s wish list to develop a customized submission. I think that would be a great way for writers to help find their match–taking a look at dream editors/agents and asking themselves if they have an MS that matches what they’re looking for. And if not, it’s time to write one!
January 26, 2021 at 3:47 am
Sensitive and Extraordinary Kids
This is fantastic and I look forward to reading all your books!
January 26, 2021 at 7:44 am
Jamie Bills
Great ideas. Thanks for sharing. You now have me very curious for the School of Failure. 🙂
January 26, 2021 at 9:24 am
Anita Banks
Fantastic ideas!
January 26, 2021 at 9:34 am
Bettie Boswell
These ideas are great. I really enjoyed the mulling mules.
January 26, 2021 at 9:39 am
Jay
Love your post and love your books.
January 26, 2021 at 9:43 am
Melissa Stoller
Thanks for an inspiring post, Rosie! I will keep thinking about a theme . . . a phrase . . . a prompt. You know I LOVE your books and can’t wait to buy your two upcoming picture books! xox
January 26, 2021 at 10:22 am
Laurel Goodluck
I believe the story you long to tell is waiting for any way to pop out. It comes for me with a beginning point, as a prompt or theme, but brainstorming with drawing out freely helps it begin to develop. Thanks for your inspiring process and congrats on your books!
January 26, 2021 at 10:52 am
suzannepoulterharris
I love thinking of idea storming as a playful challenge. It’s so important to keep it fun.
January 26, 2021 at 11:15 am
Elizabeth Curry
Thank you for the great tips and inspiring post! Congratulations on your success.
January 26, 2021 at 11:16 am
cravevsworld
Useful tips! Thanks for sharing.
January 26, 2021 at 11:38 am
Christine @ Goodjelly
Thanks, Rosie. Prompts are a goldmine for me. ❤
January 26, 2021 at 11:48 am
Helen Lysicatos
Thanks for the tips and for sharing your experience! Congrats on your upcoming releases,
January 26, 2021 at 2:49 pm
Naomi Gruer
Thanks for sharing the different ways ideas come to you!
January 26, 2021 at 3:35 pm
Arlene Schenker
Thanks for these great tips, Rosie. Good luck with Sunday Rain!
January 26, 2021 at 6:08 pm
Marilyn R Garcia
I use prompts all the time when I write poetry. I have no idea why it never occurred to me to do that with picture book manuscripts – Duh. Thanks for pointing out that writing is writing and I can use my “hacks” across all my work. 🙂
January 26, 2021 at 6:30 pm
susanzonca
Thanks for sharing your ideas and your journey. It’s good to hear that sometimes we have to give up the very line that prompted our story.
January 26, 2021 at 7:55 pm
Michele Helsel
The School of Failure: A Story of Success? Love it! I also love the idea of brainstorming ideas based on a publisher. Thank you!
January 26, 2021 at 8:15 pm
Kassy Keppol
Thank you for sharing
January 26, 2021 at 8:24 pm
storiesbythesea
Writing a story with a specific publisher in mind is intriguing. Love your story ideas!
January 26, 2021 at 8:47 pm
nicolesalterbraun
One of my favorite ways to start a story is when some phrase pops into my head. I write everything down cuz you never know when you may use it
January 26, 2021 at 9:15 pm
Stephanie Jones
Thanks so much for these ideas!! I love how the idea germs sometimes work themselves out if the story- it’s freeing to let ideas evolv.
January 26, 2021 at 10:55 pm
Rebecca Gardyn Levington
Thank you for sharing these great brainstorming ideas! Congrats on your latest book and announcement!
January 26, 2021 at 10:59 pm
Sylvia Mary Grech
Thanks for your post!
January 27, 2021 at 11:12 am
Val McC
I’ll be watching for phrases especially because they jump out at me and I need to start mining them for ideas! Thanks, Rosie
January 27, 2021 at 1:29 pm
LenoraBiemans (@BiemansLenora)
Congratulations, Rosie!
January 27, 2021 at 2:27 pm
annettepimentel
I loved the insight that initial sparks don’t necessarily survive the editing process!
January 27, 2021 at 2:58 pm
LaurenKerstein
What inspiring idea-generating methods! Thank you, Rosie!
January 27, 2021 at 3:00 pm
Susan Niemann
Thank you for the inspiration!
January 27, 2021 at 3:56 pm
Karen Greenwald
Great ideas to think about! Congrats on all of your success!
January 27, 2021 at 4:31 pm
Laura N. Clement
Great insight! Thank you Rosie.
January 27, 2021 at 4:46 pm
Laura De La Cruz
Thanks for the inspiration, Rosie! A theme, a phrase, and a prompt- love these.
January 27, 2021 at 5:14 pm
Robin Bailey
Thank you for sharing examples from your own works, Rosie. Your post was inspiring and started firing my own brain for some new ideas. Thank you for that!
January 27, 2021 at 5:43 pm
amckelle
Three tips for the price of one! Thanks Rosie!
January 27, 2021 at 7:16 pm
Jennifer
Thanks, Rosie, for the wonderful tips!
January 28, 2021 at 12:02 am
Karen Pickrell
Thank you for sharing your tips to spark story ideas!
January 28, 2021 at 6:54 am
srkckass
Rosie I am so excited for you. Amariah Rauscher illustrated Sunday Rain! I can’t wait to read it to my kids. She’s one of my favorite illustrators and she’s done some artwork for me in the past (not anything published…yet!). Congratulations on all your successes and collaborations!
January 28, 2021 at 11:30 am
Babs Ostapina
Great ideas, Rosie. I’m glad to know you have trouble dispensing with those oh so brilliant sentences, too! Congrats on the new books!
January 28, 2021 at 12:59 pm
Brenda Grant Lower
I haven’t tried to come up with an idea for a specific publisher before! I will definitely look into that!
January 28, 2021 at 5:11 pm
Judy Bryan
Three great tips, Rosie, thank you! Looking forward to reading your books!!
January 28, 2021 at 5:48 pm
topangamaria
Thanks for the back stories on your great stories.
January 28, 2021 at 7:29 pm
amyrsinn
I used to love biking in the rain in the summer when the sun was out. Loved it!
January 28, 2021 at 8:10 pm
Caren
I love catching snippets of sentences for jump-starting ideas.
January 28, 2021 at 8:28 pm
Tonnye W. Fletcher
Kids’ actions and conversations or nature experiences inspire many of mine, but your top 3 tips have worked for me as well. In fact, I had a new idea as I was reading this that I might have missed otherwise! Thanks for the inspiration. SUNDAY RAIN looks really lovely! Congrats on all of your success and continuing good luck!
January 28, 2021 at 8:39 pm
Masha Sapron
loved reading the stories behind the stories!
January 28, 2021 at 10:50 pm
Karen L Ledbetter
Thank you
January 29, 2021 at 7:52 am
Meaghan Br
I love that you chop and change your processes of starting and continuing stories. Thank you for sharing your ideas.
January 29, 2021 at 12:26 pm
melissamiles1
I love the ideas, and it’s great to hear how the different projects came about. Congrats on the new book!
January 29, 2021 at 12:50 pm
jennyb_writes (@jennyb_writes)
Thank you for this! I am walking away with a sizable list of themes, phrases, and prompts to explore.
January 29, 2021 at 4:04 pm
Kimberly Wilson
I love it when little nuggets of stories tug at you! Thanks for sharing your process––I need to try using prompts more often!
January 29, 2021 at 4:28 pm
Judy Palermo
I do like writing from prompts. It’s a different creative process. I’m so glad to hear how it worked for you!
January 29, 2021 at 5:04 pm
yangmommy
It’s so hard to edit out your darlings, your beloved phrases, but sometimes, their soul purpose is to sprout other ideas, rather like a sourdough mother 🙂
January 29, 2021 at 7:03 pm
Patricia Tiffany Morris
This day yielded two story ideas for me. Thanks!
January 30, 2021 at 7:29 am
Barbara Younger
There’s nothing more wonderful than dancing in the rain! I would love to win a copy!
January 30, 2021 at 10:06 am
Beth Charles
Thanks for sharing your process. Getting rid of darlings is so hard and yet I have often found it holding back the story. Thanks for the inspiration.
January 30, 2021 at 12:04 pm
Ellen Leventhal
Such a great post, Rosie! I too wrote a story around a great opening. I thought. I had to scrap it, but I’m hoping to use it somewhere else. 🙂 Thanks!
January 30, 2021 at 12:12 pm
Kathy Berman
Thank you Rosie! Love your suggestions for brainstorming ideas.
January 30, 2021 at 2:16 pm
Kristy Nuttall
The mule phrase is great! It’s so interesting how stories start. I love the idea of capturing a moment. Thank you Rosie for putting such wonderful stories out into the world!
January 30, 2021 at 4:02 pm
AlisonMarcotte
Love these ideas! I tend to use the “Phrase” brainstorming tip the most!
January 30, 2021 at 4:02 pm
jeanjames926
Lots of helpful ideas! Thank you Rosie.
January 30, 2021 at 5:19 pm
colleenrkosinski
Great brainstorming suggestions!
January 30, 2021 at 5:23 pm
dlapmandi
Very unique look at crafting ideas for picture books. Thanks for the post.
January 30, 2021 at 6:55 pm
Aimee R Larke
Love your brainstorming ideas! Thank you.
January 30, 2021 at 9:14 pm
Gaby
Rosie, how important is having an open mind, and adapting with new circumstances. Congrats with your book “Sarah’s Song”, the theme is really heartbreaking!!!
January 30, 2021 at 10:03 pm
Amy Bradshaw
Thank you for offering three tips to help us with ideas. I appreciate you sharing your journey, too!
January 30, 2021 at 10:34 pm
Ave Maria Cross
A theme. A phrase. A prompt. Great tips that I plan on using. Thanks!
January 30, 2021 at 11:47 pm
Yehudit Sarah
Thanks Rosie! Just reading your ideas inspired me and a prompt came to me. I want to remember using a theme or phrase too.
January 30, 2021 at 11:50 pm
thedandelionzoo
Great tips! Thank you!
January 31, 2021 at 6:27 am
Rachel S. Hobbs Gunn
Thanks!
January 31, 2021 at 8:56 am
doreenrobinson
I agree – you never know when the muse will strike. Fun to read about your process and your successes!
January 31, 2021 at 9:42 am
Lisa L Furness
I have also found a way to enter my stories by these great starting points. Thanks, Rosie! Sarah’s Song is a story that speaks to me. I love the premise.
January 31, 2021 at 9:43 am
Laura Purdie Salas
Congrats on ALL your success, Rosie, and thanks for sharing these fun backstories!
January 31, 2021 at 9:53 am
Kelly Vavala
Thank you for sharing! Sunday rain looks delightful!
January 31, 2021 at 11:32 am
Artsybarncat
Great ideas — I especially love the conversations concept! I’ve heard convos of little ones that I’ve wished I had recorded… that could make a good book! 😂
January 31, 2021 at 1:23 pm
Anna Brooks
Thank you for the great ideas! And it’s a nice reminder that the start of an idea can find its way to an entirely new, and better, story idea.
January 31, 2021 at 2:51 pm
Michelle Kashinsky
Thank you for the great ideas!
January 31, 2021 at 4:09 pm
Melissa McDaniel
Thank you, Rosie!
January 31, 2021 at 4:44 pm
sloanejacobs
Love the prompt ideas. It’s true about things evolving. Happens to me all the time. 🙂 And sometimes the ideas are even good ones. lol.
January 31, 2021 at 4:52 pm
Mel H.
I tend to overthink, so these three, fairly simple, suggestions are a big help. Thank you!
January 31, 2021 at 6:40 pm
Laura Renauld
It just shows when you’re open to ideas, they can come from anywhere! Many congrats!
January 31, 2021 at 8:39 pm
Jen Walsh Hawks
Thank you for sharing your journey! It is so helpful to see your own specific examples along with your suggestions for finding ideas!
January 31, 2021 at 8:43 pm
Kay Oh
Thank you for sharing how initial ideas may spark an idea, but the story may outgrow it’s own inspiration, and and become bigger, brighter and better in the process.
January 31, 2021 at 10:01 pm
Mary Worley
So hard to cut those lines that you love. I almost always begin with the character, but I’m trying to broaden my approach.
January 31, 2021 at 11:50 pm
Jolene Ballard Gutiérrez
Thank you for sharing some of the ways you’ve developed your ideas, Rosie!
February 1, 2021 at 1:05 am
Jennifer Broedel (@JBroedelAuthor)
So honored to be on this writing journey with you, and you should be so proud of the work you have produced here. You’re a great storyteller, and it’s fun to learn more about your process!
February 1, 2021 at 7:10 am
Melissa Trempe is writing (@melissa_trempe)
Thank you for the ideas and inspiration! Congrats on your success!
February 1, 2021 at 1:53 pm
Jen (aka RandomlyGenerated)
Thanks for the prompt!
February 1, 2021 at 4:50 pm
Audrey
I love how so much of your journey celebrates your critique partners — they are the most wonderful gift for any writer, in my opinion!
February 1, 2021 at 10:46 pm
kmshelley
Thanks for the inspiration and helpful ideas!
February 2, 2021 at 9:06 pm
mandyyokim
Thank you, Rosie! Ideas also seem to come to me while driving or taking a shower. I will try your tips!
February 5, 2021 at 7:19 pm
Dea Brayden
Oh gads- having to cut the phrase that started it all. Good on you. What a journey. Thanks!
February 5, 2021 at 8:44 pm
Anne LeBlanc Gr 4/5 teacher 🇨🇦📚❤️✍️🖖😃 (@AnneLeBlanc2)
Fantastic ideas! I can’t wait to read your books!
February 5, 2021 at 9:42 pm
KASteed
Great ideas.
February 6, 2021 at 12:35 am
Lindsay Brayden Ellis
Thanks for sharing your process!