by Kirsten W. Larson
Today we will not be talking about generating ideas.
Nope. Not even for a minute.
You think I’ve forgotten the whole point of Storystorm.
I assure you, I haven’t.
You see, I don’t think ideas have to be generated. They’re already out there just waiting for you to catch them. Your job is to pay attention, to put up your story antennas and jostle them around until the static gives way to a steady stream of inspiration.
That’s what I want to focus on today—fine-tuning your antennas. Because here’s the thing, if you train your antennas just right, you’ll pick up the story ideas only you can write. The ones that resonate with your soul and speak to the deepest part of who you are. The ones that capture your heart and energize you, carrying you from crappy first draft through countless revisions.
Those story ideas are gold. And they are begging for you to notice them.
Take the idea for my debut picture book WOOD, WIRE, WINGS, illustrated by Tracy Subisak, the true story of engineer Emma Lilian Todd. Lilian Todd was the first woman to design a working airplane, which flew in 1910. That idea for that book came straight out of the pages of ROSIE REVERE, ENGINEER by Andrea Beaty, illustrated by David Roberts.
Thousands, perhaps millions of people have read ROSIE REVERE. Why did I pick up on the idea of Lilian Todd when so many others hadn’t?
My antennas were up.
I used to work for NASA, and I’ve lived and worked around airplanes my whole adult life. I was interested in aviation. I was fascinated by underdogs. And I was curious enough to think, “Who is this Lilian Todd, and why haven’t I heard of her?”
Step 1: Embrace curiosity
Your first task today is to make a list of topics that interest you and new things you want to learn about. Consider past jobs, your hobbies, your childhood favorites. (If you’ve read my latest picture book, A TRUE WONDER, illustrated by Katy Wu, you know I was a huge Wonder Woman fan as a kid. I had the Underoos to prove it.) Think about the types of movies, TV shows, and books you like. What are your cherished family and cultural traditions? What have you been dying to learn more about?
Now keep pursuing those interests and see what ideas crystalize out of thin air.
Step 2: Consider your values and truths you know
Now let’s make a list of your values and truths you know. These speak more to theme than subject matter, but every good picture book needs both.
I believe underdogs can change the world, and I love writing about them. All my protagonists are underdogs, including Wonder Woman, who was poo-pooed by male comics creators and then parents and teachers.
The label also fits Cecilia Payne, the real-life subject of my next picture book, THE FIRE OF STARS, illustrated by Katherine Roy. When Payne discovered what stars were made of, a well-known male astrophysicist flat-out told her she was wrong. French art curator Rose Valland, who secretly spied on the Nazis for years, is an underdog too. She’s the subject of my first middle grade graphic novel, THE LIGHT OF RESISTANCE, illustrated by Barbara McClintock.
My antennas are always scanning they sky for stories about people who defy odds and expectations.
There are other ideas that fascinate me too, like being a scientist or inventor is about passion and persistence not genius. I also gravitate to the idea of subverting notions about what heroes look like.
Getting in touch with your values and truths helps train your antennas in the right direction.
Step 3: Mash it up
What if you combine one of your truths/values with one of the topics from your first list? Maybe you mash up “pirates” with “family is who you choose.” Does an idea start to form?
I’ll be honest, every time I finish a project, I worry I’ll never find another just-right idea. But I know if I indulge my interests and curiosity and reflect on my values, the ideas come in crystal clear.
Now get out there and pick up some golden ideas.
Kirsten used to work with rocket scientists at NASA. Now she writes books for curious kids. She is the author of the picture books WOOD, WIRE, WINGS: EMMA LILIAN TODD INVENTS AN AIRPLANE, illustrated by Tracy Subisak (Calkins Creek), A TRUE WONDER: The Comic Book Hero Who Changed Everything, illustrated by Katy Wu (Clarion), and THE FIRE OF STARS: The Life and Brilliance of the Woman Who Discovered What Stars Are Made Of, illustrated by Katherine Roy (Chronicle, 2023), and the middle grade, graphic nonfiction, THE LIGHT OF RESISTANCE, illustrated by Barbara McClintock, (Roaring Brook, 2023), as well as 25 nonfiction books for the school and library market. Find her online at Kirsten-w-larson.com or on social media @kirstenwlarson.
Kirsten giving away an hour Zoom call you can use any way you like. You could use it for career coaching, a critique, or just an “ask me anything” session.
Leave one comment below to enter.
You’re eligible to win if you’re a registered Storystorm participant and you have commented once below.
Prizes will be distributed at the conclusion of Storystorm.
782 comments
Comments feed for this article
January 9, 2022 at 8:08 am
Kevin Treaccar
Awesome! Thank you! Hooray Wonder Woman!
January 9, 2022 at 9:39 am
Erica
Thank you (and I had Wonder Woman Underoos too))
January 9, 2022 at 8:10 am
lizluvselephants
Kirsten always has a way to shine a light on the power we all have to create amazing stories! This post is FABULOUS!!
January 11, 2022 at 9:37 am
Natalia Paruzel-Gibson
Kristen! Thanks for your inspiring words. Love the idea of understanding your values and using that lens to seek out what topics/themes speak out to you.
January 9, 2022 at 8:11 am
rbkrackeler
This is Wonder Woman amazing, thank you!!!
January 9, 2022 at 8:13 am
Mary McClellan
Love reading about your “process.” 🙂 Heard an interesting phrase recently — open your brain door. The idea = to look at what’s around you. Your brain door is obviously open!
January 9, 2022 at 8:17 am
Keri Collins Lewis
Thank you for this fresh take on leveraging your strengths to choose the best ideas!
January 9, 2022 at 8:27 am
beingmelissakay
This is such a fantastic post. There is so much to digest I plan to read it several times and then give myself some serious notebook and Google time! Thank you
January 9, 2022 at 8:29 am
Lenora (can't stop, won't stop writing) Biemans (@BiemansLenora)
I love this, Kirsten. My antennas are always up but I admit they need more training to my passions and interests. Thank you!
January 9, 2022 at 8:30 am
Susan Lorene
I’m keeping my eyes and ears and nose open for ideas.
January 9, 2022 at 8:06 pm
beckylevine
Thanks! It’s such a great feeling to hear the “click” when antennas pick up an idea that resonates. 🙂
January 9, 2022 at 8:35 am
cbloomy
Yay for Underdogs! That was one of my favorite cartoons years ago. Thank you for reminding me of that and others. My antennas are twitching.
January 9, 2022 at 8:35 am
katelynchwrites
Kristen, thank you SO much for the nudge!! I love the idea of making a list of my values and truths to help my antennae guide me to story ideas!!
January 9, 2022 at 8:39 am
@FableFiddler (kellie)
Thanks Kirsten for your inspiring words of wisdom. I agree stories are out there. We just need to be open to seeing and hearing them…. and willing to draft and redraft and redraft and redraft and repeat.
January 9, 2022 at 8:41 am
Lauren Barbieri
Great advice—thank you!
January 9, 2022 at 8:41 am
Joyce Uglow
Whoa! I think I’ll dig out my cowboy hat, bike helmet, and a well-worn old winter hat. I’m wondering if my antennas might sprout back out when wearing a hat from my childhood. Thank you, Kirsten. I appreciate your sage advice.
January 9, 2022 at 8:41 am
Shan O’Shea
I’ve noticed some of my interests have unexpected underlying similarities. Such as my love of reading and writing poetry, and my love of dance. They are both based on rhythm – especially Flamenco dancing.
January 9, 2022 at 8:43 am
Janna DeYoung
Thanks for the great ideas!
January 9, 2022 at 8:44 am
Suzanne Lewis
Story Antennas positioned and ready to receive! Thanks for a fun, thoughtful and energy-positive post, Kirsten!
January 9, 2022 at 8:44 am
N. Alison Colle
Interesting post, thank you!
January 9, 2022 at 8:46 am
Linda Kay Chavez
Will remember to keep my antennas up! Thanks for the ideas, and the peek into your process!
January 9, 2022 at 8:46 am
Alice Fulgione
Thanks for your great post! I, also, love underdog stories & I plan to check out your books. My antennas are up & ready to pick up some golden ideas.
January 9, 2022 at 8:46 am
Ashley Nicole Parker
I am getting ideas from all of these posts!
January 9, 2022 at 8:50 am
Priscilla Gilman
I’m curious to see whether the kid lit world will open up the values it represents as it opens to more diverse creators. I’m hoping that gaps I see will be opportunities.
January 9, 2022 at 8:51 am
Lynn McCracken
I love your concept of “story antennas.” I try to embrace them every day. It helps see the world and what is happening around me in a different light, a light of more or deeper fascination.
January 9, 2022 at 8:52 am
rebeccacolby
Wonderful ideas! Like you, I try to keep my antenna up. Thanks for this inspiring post!
January 9, 2022 at 8:53 am
Marcia Parks
I love it! When I try simply to think up an idea, I struggle. But if I pay attention (generally in reading or doing something I like) ideas float up like bubbles.
January 9, 2022 at 8:53 am
Colleen Owen Murphy
Thank you Kirsten! And congratulations on your new releases as well. I think it is pretty cool that you actually gained inspiration from another picture book.
January 9, 2022 at 8:54 am
Jill Purtee (P. J.)
Brilliant!
January 9, 2022 at 8:58 am
Meghan Downs
Feeling so inspired! I love the idea of list making, and seeing what natural and unexpected combinations fit together and work for a new story!
January 9, 2022 at 8:58 am
Lynne Marie
So true! My antennae are wiggling right now. Wishing you the best of success!
January 9, 2022 at 8:59 am
Janie Reinart
Kristen, great post. Looking forward to reading your new books.
January 9, 2022 at 9:05 am
kurtzmom548513
Great idea to catch those story ideas by keeping your antenna out! I will definitely try the activities she suggested and will check out her books! I live writing about the underdog too! Thanks so much!
January 9, 2022 at 9:07 am
Andrea Mack
Thanks for describing how you develop ideas! Off to generate some lists….hmmmm…..making lists could go on my list!
January 9, 2022 at 9:11 am
Tanya Konerman
These seem so obvious yet I forget to mine my interests and curiosities so easily. But who better to research and write about these topics than someone so in tune and passionate about them!
January 9, 2022 at 9:11 am
Maria
Totally agree! There are so many interesting characters, circumstances and stories. We have to be curious about them, and set aside time to dream about them a little 🙂 Thank you!
January 9, 2022 at 9:12 am
Rebecca McMurdie
It’s true, I do always think that when I finished a MS with a jury-right idea, I won’t find another, but I always do!
Thanks for this.
January 9, 2022 at 9:16 am
Elyse Trevers
How perfect your blog is for January-made me introspective and this about my interests. A new beginning based upon what already exists. Thanks for that,
January 9, 2022 at 9:17 am
Vanessa Konoval
What terrific advice! I can’t wait to get started! Thank you. :o)
January 9, 2022 at 9:17 am
Midge Smith
This really resonates with me! Thank you, Kirsten!
January 9, 2022 at 9:19 am
Michele Helsel
Good suggestions! Love your wonder woman book!
January 9, 2022 at 9:20 am
René Bartos (@rebpedmom)
Great post! I totally agree-great ideas are out there waiting for us to write about them with our own unique voices and values.
January 9, 2022 at 9:21 am
anchance
Can’t wait to start on this one. I have never tried to write a nonfiction book for kids, but I would love to give it a try. Thank you for the push!
January 9, 2022 at 9:23 am
lsheroan
I’m ready to “indulge my interests” and see where they lead. Thank you!
January 9, 2022 at 9:23 am
Lisa L Furness
I love this post Kirsten. Fine-tuning your story antennae to attract ideas that only you can write, is wonder-ful.
January 9, 2022 at 9:26 am
Joy Pitcairn
This is a great reminder. Thank you!
January 9, 2022 at 9:27 am
Robin Brett Wechsler
I agree story ideas are around us for us to find. Thanks for your insight and inspiration, Kirsten. I love your books!
January 9, 2022 at 9:30 am
thecrowsmap
Thanks for the inspiration, Kirsten! Congratulations on your books.
Gail Hartman
January 9, 2022 at 9:32 am
https://katiewalsh.blog/
I love to mash things up. Thank you for the reminder!
January 9, 2022 at 9:33 am
Janet Krauthamer
Thanks for this helpful advice! I can’t wait to read THE FIRE OF STARS when it comes out!
January 9, 2022 at 9:33 am
Rebecca Gardyn Levington
I can’t wait to try making these lists. Thank you for the great exercises and for your inspiring post!
January 9, 2022 at 9:34 am
Deona Valentine
Well I had to read this twice!
January 9, 2022 at 9:41 am
Sara Ackerman
“They’re already out there just waiting for you to catch them.” I love this perspective! Thank you for sharing your inspiration. I have a bio subject that’s been rattling around in my brain for the last year or two and every storystorm post reminds me of her. I think it’s time to start researching…
January 9, 2022 at 9:42 am
Jane Baskwill
I love the idea of having story antennas!!
January 9, 2022 at 9:42 am
Fiona Forster
So many great points in you article! Finding topics you are passionate about is key – topics and angles on them that only you were meant to write.
January 9, 2022 at 9:47 am
Deborah Agranat Sullivan
Terrific post, Kirsten – really helps reframe/refresh my approach to new stories. And very generous prize offer! That’s one lucky winner 🙂 Thanks again.
January 9, 2022 at 9:47 am
Andria Rosenbaum
I’m on board when it comes to embracing a good mash up with curiosity and a dash of my own twist. Easy to say. Much tougher to do, But thank you, Kirsten, for the inspiration to always scout out fresh themes & ideas.
January 9, 2022 at 9:48 am
Juliana Jones
Wonderful post! Thank you for bringing underdog stories to light! I’ll be tuning my antenna for my own picture book ideas as I work through the steps.
January 9, 2022 at 9:52 am
Cathy Lentes
Kirsten, this really resonates for me. And even before your advice, I had started compiling my own list of heartwood themes and topics. It’s so easy to chase the shiny new idea, but I soon lose my way. Only when I tap into the things that won’t let me go, or that I can’t let go, do I give my full attention and heart.
January 9, 2022 at 9:53 am
Ruthie Kirk
No need to worry, Kirsten, about finding your next idea. YOU will always discover great ones! Thanks for your inspiring words.
January 9, 2022 at 9:53 am
Kelly Vavala
Great post! I’ll have my antenna up and ready to receive information! You know when a story idea feels right and it’s yours…Your heart races as you type in the words to google to see if it’s been done before! Thank you for an interesting perspective! I wish you well!
January 9, 2022 at 9:54 am
Apryl
Great ideas to think about!
January 9, 2022 at 10:01 am
stiefelchana
WONDERful post, Kirsten! Congrats on all of your upcoming books! My antennae are up (after I finish my coffee).
January 9, 2022 at 10:03 am
michelemeleen
Listing these “uniquely me” topics is such a simple and great way to always be reminded of the original ways we each look at the world. Thanks for the great idea!
January 9, 2022 at 10:06 am
Becki Kidd
Thanks for reminding us ideas comes from curiosity!
January 9, 2022 at 10:06 am
kiwijenny
Kirsten this is a post I can sink my canines into…you know the underdogs of teeth. Whoah that’s me..I’m silly but I have a serious side too. Those two war with each other…but I will antenna up. I bet a lot of kids feel this way.
January 9, 2022 at 10:08 am
Patricia Franz
Thank you Kristen! You’ve reserved the panic a few degrees with these reminders!
January 9, 2022 at 10:09 am
judyrubin13
Thank you, Kristen, for sharing your creating and writing process with us, especially the mash up.
January 9, 2022 at 10:10 am
SCody
Ooo I love this one! Because sometimes I feel like all the good ideas have been “taken” and how could I come up with a story as good as xyz. But taking cues from inspiration and personal values is a great way to make something “mine”!
January 9, 2022 at 10:11 am
bgonsar
Details are everything. Thanks Kirsten!
January 9, 2022 at 10:12 am
Susan Korchak
Love the notion of thinking about what I want to learn. Thank you!
January 9, 2022 at 10:13 am
wordwritermo
Tara always finds the best guest bloggers. Write the story only you can write, right? Right! What a better way than to train your idea antennae precisely to your wheelhouse? Jotting down these tips NOW!
–Melisa Wrex @mowrex on Twitter
January 9, 2022 at 10:14 am
stephaniemstories
This is a great exercise. Listing out then mashing it up!
January 9, 2022 at 10:14 am
Janet AlJunaidi
Thank you Kirsten for presenting this “formula” – you have really boiled down to its essence these 3 steps. I often feel like ideas and my values are flying around in my brain, all mixed up but your method is a way to categorize and rein in all these thoughts – and save some time!
January 9, 2022 at 10:14 am
rosecappelli
Polishing up those story antennas now! Thank you for the great advice!
January 9, 2022 at 10:15 am
Laura rackham
Gold nuggets to be found everywhere!
January 9, 2022 at 10:16 am
Mary Warth
Thanks Kristen! You have outlined some simple steps to catch ideas. Off to make some lists!
January 9, 2022 at 10:16 am
Alison McGauley
Kirsten, this post is completely resonating with me! Thank you so much for sharing these thoughts.
My mind is already churning away, making a list of interests.
January 9, 2022 at 10:17 am
yangmommy
Thanks for your inspiration & fond memory of underwood!🤪
January 9, 2022 at 10:17 am
Tara Cerven
I love the mash-up idea. Thank you! And I may have had the Underoos too 🙂
January 9, 2022 at 10:17 am
yangmommy
Thanks for your inspiration & fond memory of underroos🤪
January 9, 2022 at 10:19 am
Jany Campana
Thanks Kirsten for helping me fine tune my antenna!!!
January 9, 2022 at 10:21 am
lmconnors
Great ideas! Thanks Kirsten.
January 9, 2022 at 10:22 am
marty
Good morning Kirsten! I am going to quote you on twitter today because I really love the advice to combine truths/values with topics that we find stirring. The theme/topic mash up is brilliant! Thank you for the generous prize of an hour-long Zoom call. Tara, thanks so much for inviting Kirsten to post during Storystorm 2022!
January 9, 2022 at 10:22 am
Polly Renner
Thank you, Kirsten, for discussing your idea process with us!
January 9, 2022 at 10:23 am
laureannawrites
Well, this post is just perfect. I have an idea I jotted down on my phone that coincided with a different twitter post. And now it relates to this too. The universe is speaking to me!!! Thank you for sharing!
January 9, 2022 at 10:24 am
Catherine Friess
How amazing that another picture book inspired you to write yours. Thanks for all the tips Kirsten :o)
January 9, 2022 at 10:24 am
lavern15
I’m lying down right now with my antennas up. I love reading these blog posts in bed. Thanks Kirsten for your golden words! Keep indulging and generating ideas!
January 9, 2022 at 10:24 am
srkckass
As the parent of a future engineer who loves to tinker and invent things, Rosie Revere has meant a lot to my family. Thank you for writing books that are inclusive for my family. Thanks for a great Storystorm post!
January 9, 2022 at 10:28 am
kmajor2013
Kirsten-I’ve enjoyed reading all the great author posts to date, but in my mind, this might be the best post yet! Thanks for sharing your process!
January 9, 2022 at 10:29 am
Leslie Eva Tayloe
Thank you for your insight. I know how I get my ideas but it’s interesting to hear how other authors get theirs. I’ve never tried to mash ideas together. Definitely will try.
January 9, 2022 at 10:30 am
Sally McClure
I love the thought that the ideas are there, we just have to pick them up! It takes all the pressure off for trying to create them!
January 9, 2022 at 10:30 am
andreesantini
Wow, thanks, great post with interesting suggestions… and such an interesting life path, from NASA to picture books. Congrats.
January 9, 2022 at 10:31 am
trunkythetree
Thank you for sharing and I must polish my antennas as they have got a bit rusty 😂
January 9, 2022 at 10:32 am
annier1996
Great post. Thanks for sharing, Kirsten!
January 9, 2022 at 10:33 am
Jennifer Weisse
This is a wonderful post, and really has me thinking. I will keep my antennas up. Oh, and I had Wonder Woman Underoos too
January 9, 2022 at 10:33 am
readmybook2002
Keeping my antenna up, ideas have popped into my mind. Now to pick which one is the best for my readers to pique their interest.
January 9, 2022 at 10:34 am
cmochowski
Getting back to essentials -curiosity and values – is a great reminder. Also I love how you write about women. Maybe you’ve written about others, but it’s so great that you pick women who defied odds and didn’t let their greatness be diminished.
January 9, 2022 at 2:22 pm
Jeanette
Great post, thanks for the ideas.
January 9, 2022 at 10:35 am
Natalie Lynn Tanner
KIRSTEN: Hearing you refer to story idea antennas made me laugh right out loud! Yesterday, I had just explained to my mom how much I LOVE STORYSTORM because it ALWAYS gets my antennas on the move again. HOW SERENDIPITOUS!!! And you’re SO RIGHT: there are stories out there that ONLY we can write–just waiting for us to pay attention to them. THANK YOU for the GREAT ideas to help us get our antennas SPRINGING into action again. Signed, A Fellow Wonder Woman Underoos Fan
January 9, 2022 at 10:36 am
Kate Peridot
Love all of this.
From fellow NF writer.
January 9, 2022 at 10:36 am
jms5880
Thank you for sharing.
January 9, 2022 at 10:37 am
ralucasirbu
You never cease to surprise, Kirsten. From fabulous workshops, smartly developed and flawlessly presented, to this blog. Here you gave us the recipe for generating ideas, and thank you for that.
January 9, 2022 at 10:38 am
Kate Peridot
Love your examples here and look forward to discovering your books.
From fello NF writer
January 9, 2022 at 10:39 am
ellen seal ❄️ (@ellenseal_art)
Antennas up! Thanks for the inspiration!
January 9, 2022 at 10:40 am
Candace Spizzirri
Thank you, Kirsten! This post was so helpful!!!
January 9, 2022 at 10:40 am
danielledufayet
I agree – the ideas are all around us- we just have to “tune in”. Thanks for sharing and congrats!
January 9, 2022 at 10:40 am
Charlotte Marie Gunnufson
Thank you for this enlightening post! I love the idea of combining curiosity and values.
January 9, 2022 at 10:42 am
Brigita O
Thanks for this great post.
January 9, 2022 at 10:46 am
Jennifer Vose
Thanks, Kirsten, for such a great reflective exercise! In response to Josh Funk’s post yesterday, someone’s advice for everyone was to write down story ideas as soon as they come to mind so they don’t get lost in life’s busy-ness. I think this advice goes along great with your post here, because to “grab” the stories that are already out there, I think a big part of that is noting them down as they flit by and through our awareness. I know I’ve lost many ideas because they came and went before I jotted them down. Darn!
January 9, 2022 at 12:59 pm
Annie Lynn/AnnieBirdd Music, LLC
Double WORD Jennifer Vose!🌻
January 9, 2022 at 10:46 am
Teresa Daffern
Wow. Just what I needed to hear Kirsten. I am fascinated by your diverse career history, but staying true to our interests and values is what takes us on these winding journeys, I think. Plus, I totally identify with being a big Wonder Woman fan! Thank you, thank you for this post!
January 9, 2022 at 10:47 am
pathaap
Love your steps for generating ideas – or to catch the ones out there. And your stories sound wonderful, Kirsten! Thanks for sharing.
January 9, 2022 at 10:47 am
Leslie Santamaria
This is terrific, Kirsten. Thank you, and best wishes in your writing!
January 9, 2022 at 10:48 am
Michelle Losardo
I LOVE when mash-ups happen! Thank you, Kristen.
January 9, 2022 at 10:54 am
brennajeanneret
I love this! Honestly, with my kid at home, there is no end to ideas! And oftentimes I feel like I am overwhelmed with the sheer amount of them!
January 9, 2022 at 10:55 am
Nancy Ramsey
Great suggestions! I look forward to giving them a try! Thanks very much!
January 9, 2022 at 10:56 am
Doreen Tango Hampton
Girl power! You have become Wonder Woman. Thanks for sharing your ideas.
January 9, 2022 at 10:58 am
asiqueira1307
Great suggestions.
January 9, 2022 at 11:01 am
marty bellis
Great advice for finding the ideas that speak to us alone. Love your stories of underdogs!
January 9, 2022 at 11:02 am
Gregory E Bray
Thank you for the post.
January 9, 2022 at 11:02 am
Jenny Boyd
Thanks for the advice and the idea prompts. Very nice, too, that you’re putting more STEM books out there with female protagonists/subjects.
January 9, 2022 at 11:03 am
Janice Woods
Wow! Love this post. Thanks for sharing.
January 9, 2022 at 11:04 am
Charlotte Offsay
Thank you for the reminder to keep our eyes and hearts open when we write!
January 9, 2022 at 11:05 am
Debi Boccanfuso
great and tangible ways to spark those ideas! THANK YOU!
January 9, 2022 at 11:06 am
Ceil Than
True stories and biographies are so inspiring!
January 9, 2022 at 11:06 am
Deborah
Love the combination of interests. Great idea. Thanks for sharing!
January 9, 2022 at 11:07 am
Erin Cleary (ClearyWriter)
Great advice. Thank you!
January 9, 2022 at 11:08 am
Linda Staszak
Ideas are everywhere–so exciting! Thanks for a great post.
January 9, 2022 at 11:09 am
Pamela Brunskill
Great advice, Kristin!
I especially love your comment about recognizing ideas like “being a scientist or inventor is about passion and persistence not genius.” The same can be true for writing. It’s both an art and a science, and we must persist with our passions.
Thanks for sharing!
January 9, 2022 at 11:09 am
Liesl Couperthwaite
Gosh, wow…this is great advice. I do get my ideas from many places and I am a supporter of the underdog, so time to act on it.
January 9, 2022 at 11:13 am
Beverly Smith
This is good stuff, a simple way to discover ideas already in front of you, add depth, and be inspired to create something wonderful. Thank you Kirsten!
January 9, 2022 at 11:16 am
Louann Brown
I often follow ideas that pop into my mind. Many have led to book ideas but others I have forgotten. I think I need to carry a little notebook, to keep them all safe.
January 9, 2022 at 11:20 am
Monica Acker
Antennae are up and ready! Thanks for this post!
January 9, 2022 at 11:21 am
Amy Leskowski
Great post! Love the perspective and your suggestions!
January 9, 2022 at 11:22 am
Eileen Mayo
Thanks, Kristen for such an interesting post! I love the idea of keeping my antennae up and tuned into my values so I can hone in on ideas that will really set the stage for a great story!
January 9, 2022 at 11:25 am
K. Yin
Story seeds are everywhere. Thank you, Kirsten!
January 9, 2022 at 11:25 am
Cheryl Simon
Thank you for this! Helpful and concrete suggestions that will surely spark amazing ideas for new picture books.
January 9, 2022 at 11:26 am
Kimberly Marcus
Really great post! Love your books.
January 9, 2022 at 11:27 am
Hollie Wolverton
Wow, this one really resonates with me! Will be fine-tuning my antenna with all these suggestions. Thank you!
January 9, 2022 at 11:31 am
Kim A Larson
Thank you, Kirsten! You gave some really great, concrete ideas toward priming the inspiration pump.
January 9, 2022 at 11:32 am
Sarah Skolfield
I love making lists. It always helps me clarify things in my mind. And I was just thinking about keeping an open mind with open eyes and ears so the antenna idea really works for me. Embrace Curiosity may be my mantra for 2022! Thank you!!
January 9, 2022 at 11:33 am
Janet Smart
Thanks for the post! Every time I finish a manuscript, I wonder if I will think of anything to write next. Surprising myself, another idea always pops up.
January 9, 2022 at 11:33 am
Cindy S
You’re right. We need to be more open to what the Universe is sending us.
January 9, 2022 at 11:35 am
Stephanie Owen
Your idea for finding themes is great, and your career is fascinating!
January 9, 2022 at 11:36 am
Donna Rossman
I will keep my antennas up and I love mash ups! Congratulations on your next book THE FIRE OF STARS.
January 9, 2022 at 11:36 am
Andrea MacDonald
I love mash-ups. This will be a fun exercise in connecting the dots in unexpected ways. Thanks for the inspiration, Kirsten.
January 9, 2022 at 11:37 am
bevbaird
Wonderful post – full of inspiration. Love the idea of “story antennas” – need to get mine working!
January 9, 2022 at 11:40 am
Lynn Baldwin
Kirsten, I love this post! Thank you for your actionable ideas. I also used to be a huge WW fan:-)
January 9, 2022 at 11:43 am
lizricewrites
Thank you for sharing your great ways to look frond generate ideas!
January 9, 2022 at 11:44 am
Amy Farris
Some of my favorite recent books!
January 9, 2022 at 11:46 am
Leah Marks
I got a rocket ship full of ideas now. Thank you!
January 9, 2022 at 11:46 am
Susan Wroble
Yes! For me, this is the value of Storystorm—it recharges my antennas each year, allowing me to pay closer attention.
January 9, 2022 at 11:47 am
Bethanny Parker
Great post. I’ll try to keep my antennas up.
January 9, 2022 at 11:47 am
Samantha Gassman
These are great tips! Perfecting that spidey sense for stories is so crucial for developing new ideas. Thanks for the reminder and exercises!
January 9, 2022 at 11:48 am
debbiemoeller
Great tips! You’ve got me thinking about looking at my WIPs in another way. Thanks for the post.
January 9, 2022 at 11:51 am
Deborah Ishii
Thank you for this wonderful birthday gift! Yes, today is my birthday and I often reflect on my life through a written reflection on this day. You’ve presented an interesting framework for finding and developing ideas, especially the concept of mashing them up!
January 9, 2022 at 11:51 am
K Orr
For sure this has been the most useful writing advice I’ve heard in a long time!
January 9, 2022 at 11:52 am
Marcia Scaggs
Kristen, I love the idea of “antennas” and the mash up of current or important contemporary issues with our traditions, beliefs and values. It provides a balanced story for all generations. I am coaching a friend writing her first young reader book based on a story that has been in her head for 20+ years. I will keep your words close as we work towards the finish line. Thank you!
January 9, 2022 at 11:52 am
Suzy Grossman
Sometimes the antennae turn on automatically sometimes I have to remember to flip the switch. Thanks for the motivation and reminder it’s not so easy to fetch an idea. But I like the melding of the idea and the arc.
January 9, 2022 at 11:54 am
Annelouise mahoney
Kirsten, this is a great post. I love the mashup of values/truths with the list of genuine interests, that’s such an inspiring way to think about story ideas. Congratulations on your two new books hitting the shelves in 2023! : )
January 9, 2022 at 11:54 am
Joan Longstaff
Definitely need to dust off my antenna … making my lists of interests is now a top priority! Thank you for your post.
January 9, 2022 at 11:54 am
Janna MacLean
Hey!! I got an idea from this post of not generating ideas. 😁
January 9, 2022 at 11:55 am
Jayne Toman
Such helpful advice. Thank you! I am going to start my lists today 🙂
January 9, 2022 at 11:58 am
Jessica Lusk
Thanks for the encouragement! Great advice!
January 9, 2022 at 11:59 am
Nadine Poper
Thanks Kirsten. Your books always have a place on my elementary library book shelves!
January 9, 2022 at 11:59 am
Leigh Anne Carter
I’m going to have my antenna on high alert today. The second step is very helpful in narrowing down focus as I tend to bounce around. Thank you, Kirsten!
January 9, 2022 at 12:04 pm
Jennifer Phillips
This really resonates with me. Thank you so much, Kirsten, for your insights!
January 9, 2022 at 12:07 pm
Mary
Thank you, Kirsten. I’m going right out into our sub-zero climate with my eyes and ears wide open to things like the crunch of the snow and the cardinals in the trees.
January 9, 2022 at 12:08 pm
Safa Suleiman
Kirsten you are an inspiration! Keeping my antennae up! Happy 2022!
January 9, 2022 at 12:09 pm
Mary
Thank you, Kirsten. This idea gets the blood coursing through my veins to dress up for the sub-zero climate and go for a walk!
January 9, 2022 at 12:10 pm
carolynleillustrations
Love the idea of mashing up my truths/values with my interests!
January 9, 2022 at 12:11 pm
candicewolff
I love the idea of listing both values and truths. I had never thought to list that alongside my ideas. Thank you!
January 9, 2022 at 12:12 pm
Paul Brassard
Wow, Kirsten! Your post just reminded me that I’ve been having curious, golden lightbulb moments since I was just a kid listening to my mother read “Zip-Zip and the Flying Saucer” to me and my brother as we were drifting off to sleep.
January 9, 2022 at 12:12 pm
sheriradovich0384
Wow, I learned several things and took into account a new idea or two that I had been toying with by reading about Kirsten. Thank you for the challenge to try new things like non-fiction. I like her website as well.
January 9, 2022 at 12:13 pm
Mary
Hi, I’m having trouble getting my comments posted. I try to sign in with FB and it always takes me to WordPress—so I sign in to WordPress and nothing shows up in the post—this has happened for the past couple of days. Mary York
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January 9, 2022 at 12:13 pm
Ellie Langford
I’ve been telling myself this for sometime – pay attention, listen, tune in with your heart and values. There are important story ideas out there waiting to be written. Thanks so much, Kirsten, for emphasizing this!
January 9, 2022 at 12:14 pm
Stephanie Gibeault
Thank you for helping me tune my story antennae! Such wonderful advice for finding the ideas that will truly reflect our hearts.
January 9, 2022 at 12:19 pm
Penelope McNally
My antennas are up! Thanks for the great post 🙂
January 9, 2022 at 12:23 pm
Danielle Hammelef
This sounds like helpful advice. I’m always wishing I’d clue into ideas around me and this will help.
January 9, 2022 at 12:26 pm
Jane Martin
Reflect on yourself, your life and what’s important to you. I love it!
January 9, 2022 at 12:28 pm
Heidi Chupp
This is so helpful, both for Storystorm month and from here on out! 🙂
January 9, 2022 at 12:28 pm
Judy Bryan
My antennas are up! Thank you for this post, Kirsten!!
January 9, 2022 at 12:33 pm
karenlee
Thanks for the ideas!
January 9, 2022 at 12:34 pm
David McMullin
This is wonderful, Kristen!
January 9, 2022 at 12:35 pm
Maria Altizer
I love the idea of using my antennae to find stories.
January 9, 2022 at 12:37 pm
Julie Durr
Wow. Thank you! Within minutes of making the suggested lists – 4 stories!
January 9, 2022 at 12:37 pm
natasha
This is a fantastic post. Thank you!
January 9, 2022 at 12:37 pm
Cathy Stefanec Ogren
Super tips, Kirsten! Love your books!
January 9, 2022 at 12:39 pm
Katie Marie
Thanks for the idea to make a list of topics that interest me. The third thing I wrote down sparked a picture book idea I am really excited about.
I love your book about Emma Lilian Todd!
January 9, 2022 at 12:41 pm
thedayswehold
This advice is gold! I’ve got my antennas up!
January 9, 2022 at 12:41 pm
Poupette
Thank you for this great exercise, to “combine one of your truths/values with one of the topics from your first list?”)! Kate Messner mixes and matches from lists too, and for anyone struggling with story more than idea, your tip is a very useful tool.
January 9, 2022 at 12:48 pm
Erica Jensen Shiflet
This was really fruitful for me. I think more about what my kids are interested in and what captivates them, which does have a lot of overlap with my own interests. But I don’t as often think about what drives me–now, or as a child. Thanks for the fresh perspective!
January 9, 2022 at 12:50 pm
heidikyates
Thank you for this wonderful and inspiring post, Kirsten!
January 9, 2022 at 12:56 pm
matthewlasley
I think that this is the hardest thing for many authors; finding the story only they can tell. Often, they want to retell a story that has already been written or simply tell the story that someone else has lived.
I know I was especially guilty when I first started writing; still am actually. I can recognize it sooner now. It doesn’t keep me from writing down ideas or roughs for stories. Now I put them away and revisit later and try to find the way that only I can tell the story.
Thanks for the post!
January 9, 2022 at 12:57 pm
authordebradaugherty
Great post, Kirsten! I always root for the underdog. I like the notion that ideas are ripe for the picking. we just have to know where to look.
January 9, 2022 at 12:58 pm
Patricia Oppenheim
Kirsten,
Thanks for the reminder to write about the things we value and that tug at our heart strings.
January 9, 2022 at 12:58 pm
Annie Lynn/AnnieBirdd Music, LLC
Congratulations on your upcoming book(s). Once again, I’m inspired by your words Kirsten. I also feel like I understand myself better through your advice, and you reinforce my intuition that I am on the right track; follow my interests & combine them with my values. In retrospect, that’s what I’ve been doing, and I love that so many in the Kidlit community are also doing so. I try to keep my antennae up, and I agree with you that your passion will guide your interest which will guide the story & make it shine. I can feel the passion and interest in your books Kirsten, and I love the “Chick Power.” I am currently experiencing Nonfiction overload, and am looking for further guidance as it relates to my genre. Please enter me in the drawing for a Zoom meeting. Stay well and creative all!✌🏼💖🎶🎨📚🌻
January 9, 2022 at 12:58 pm
Earl @ The Chronicles Of A Children's Book Writer
Great advice. It reminds me to look up and look around more.
January 9, 2022 at 12:58 pm
ashleehashman
Thank you, Kirsten, for the inspiration to catch ideas instead of generate them!
January 9, 2022 at 1:06 pm
kskeesling
Wow, you’ve accomplished so much! I love this organic way of mining ideas, especially the questions and truths!
January 9, 2022 at 1:08 pm
Reed
wow – love where these stories emerged from (that makes sense, write what interests you)
January 9, 2022 at 1:12 pm
John McGranaghan
Great advice and so true about being in tune to possible ideas. Love the idea of matching what you are curious about to your values. Thanks for the template, I enjoy your books.
January 9, 2022 at 1:13 pm
Lucretia Schafroth
Thank you for sharing your insights, Kirsten. They are wise words from which to gain writing inspiration!
January 9, 2022 at 1:13 pm
Amanda
Ahh, this process is brilliant! It is my favorite process yet this Storystorm for how to come up with great ideas! I have two great lists and am hoping to find something(s) great in my list mash-ups!
January 9, 2022 at 1:15 pm
Lucretia Schafroth
Thank you for sharing your insights, Kirsten. They are wise words from which to gain writing inspiration. Keep your antennae up!
January 9, 2022 at 1:15 pm
Peggy Dobbs
Ideas truly are everywhere. Thank you for the steps you suggested to help find them.
January 9, 2022 at 1:17 pm
Nancy Ferguson
Kirsten, Thank you for showing me just how to “mash it up” after I CATCH the ideas! Congratulations on your books!
January 9, 2022 at 1:18 pm
Shirley fadden
Love the idea of making a list of what I value and doing a mash-up. Thanks!
January 9, 2022 at 1:22 pm
dragonmintcallisto52281
What a wonderful idea to mash up interests and values to see what emerges! I love it.
January 9, 2022 at 1:22 pm
Shannon LaPuma
Yes, passion and persistence! Thanks for the inspiring ideas.
January 9, 2022 at 1:23 pm
Erika
Love this approach to brainstorming and combining ideas!
January 9, 2022 at 1:23 pm
Kathryn Powell
Thank you and congratulations on your success!
January 9, 2022 at 1:24 pm
sue macartney
Kirsten, such an inspiring mash-up – thank you!
January 9, 2022 at 1:25 pm
Mandy Yokim
Thank you, Kristen! I think the ideas in your post will help people not only write better but also know themselves better. Perfect!
January 9, 2022 at 1:25 pm
Jasmine Ann Smith
Thank you for this post, and even more for the awesome books you write. Off to mash some words!
January 9, 2022 at 1:27 pm
mdk45
A brilliant post, Kirsten. It’s so true that NF ideas are there. We just have to be on alert and pay attention. Thanks!
January 9, 2022 at 1:29 pm
Shirley Ng-Benitez
This is such a fantastic post. Thank you for your suggestions and congratulations on all of your books!
January 9, 2022 at 1:32 pm
sareenmclay
How inspiring! Thank you, Kirsten. I’d love to read the books you’ve written and I know my childhood self would have been thrilled. Congratulations!
January 9, 2022 at 1:32 pm
MLStoller@aol.comMelissa Stoller
Thank you for this great post and I can’t wait to read all your new books. I love how you emphasize indulging your interests and curiosity and reflecting on your values. Will do!
January 9, 2022 at 1:37 pm
jesseannabornemann
Kirsten, what an interesting career you’ve had! Thanks for this excellent post—I really like the thought process you’ve outlined. As a kid, I loved Baby-Sitters Club books, Barbies, spelling bees, musicals, Scrabble, inventing recipes…I’m sure there’s a book in there somewhere!
January 9, 2022 at 1:37 pm
Cindy Jeklin
Love these inspiring tips! Thanks so much.
January 9, 2022 at 1:38 pm
Jill Lambert
Such great suggestions here, Kirsten. I am really excited to try them! Thanks so much for sharing your process.
January 9, 2022 at 1:44 pm
kathalsey
Kirsten, I love this exercise and post. I usually have my antennae up but how to combine that with our values and themes is the extra step that will make them expand into meaningful stories. Ty.
January 9, 2022 at 1:48 pm
Jennifer Kennedy
This is a super helpful idea. Plus a reminder to always be on the lookout in everyday life. Thank you!
January 9, 2022 at 1:48 pm
Sue Heavenrich
Antennae! I definitely need to get a new pair – mine are frayed at the tips. Or maybe design a better idea net? Great post Kirsten.
January 9, 2022 at 1:49 pm
Alexis
Loved this post. Thank you!
January 9, 2022 at 1:51 pm
jenabenton
Great post Kirsten!
January 9, 2022 at 1:52 pm
Helen Kampion
I agree that ideas surround us. We need to take off our blinders and see them!
January 9, 2022 at 1:52 pm
Debra Collins
Keeping the antenna up certainly makes the world more wonderful!
January 9, 2022 at 1:54 pm
trueconfessionsofahelicoptermom
Can’t wait to read Wood, Fire and Wings!
January 9, 2022 at 1:55 pm
NC Karuzis
I love your suggestions. I share your interests, but definitely need to fine tune my antenna. Thank you.
January 9, 2022 at 1:56 pm
annmdk
Very thoughtful suggestions–thank you!
January 9, 2022 at 1:59 pm
deniseaengle
Ohhhh!! Mash it up!! I can do this. Fantastic blog post! So grateful.
January 9, 2022 at 2:00 pm
Celeste Turner
The antenna analogy gives a clear path to tap within. Your upcoming titles look fantastic too. Thanks.
January 9, 2022 at 2:04 pm
Andrea Yomtob
Wow! What a great post- this one really resonated with me. I look forward to checking out Kirsten’s books.
January 9, 2022 at 2:05 pm
Leah Moser
Great advice. Thank you so much!
January 9, 2022 at 2:05 pm
Sue Cottrill (@secottrill)
Had an antenna moment this morning before reading your post! Now to make some lists to vet the idea. Thanks so much for your great advice!
January 9, 2022 at 2:06 pm
jenfierjasinski
Today’s StoryStorm idea came before I even finished reading this post!! I loved this interview, especially reading you also fear you will never come across another great idea. Thanks and happy hunting!
January 9, 2022 at 2:08 pm
Cassia Kouyoumdjian
Thank you for the suggestions, I came up with some new ideas while reading your post.
January 9, 2022 at 2:08 pm
Thelia Hutchinson
Thank Kirsten. Everything you say is true. I just have to keep looking ideas are constantly around us. I love Wonder Woman.
January 9, 2022 at 2:11 pm
katiemillsgiorgio
Great advice…thanks for sharing!
January 9, 2022 at 2:15 pm
Mary Ann
That’s great advice. This year my ideas, so far, have been about things that are dear to my heart. I like the idea of mashing them up with things that interest me. I’m taking it slow this year and really letting myself listen for good ideas. In the past I’ve felt myself in a frenzy trying to catch as many as I can. This year I’m letting them, catch me. Thanks for the post!
January 9, 2022 at 2:18 pm
Brinton Culp
This was a fun exercise that led to some interesting mash-ups. Thank you!
January 9, 2022 at 2:20 pm
saintamovin
Kirsten Thank you so much 😊
January 9, 2022 at 2:21 pm
Tara
This was very inspiring. I love the idea of combining an area of interest with one of your personal values. I can see ideas quivering into view. Thank you!
January 9, 2022 at 2:21 pm
Jennifer Roman
“…if you train your antennas just right, you’ll pick up the story ideas only you can write. The ones that resonate with your soul and speak to the deepest part of who you are.” This really resonated with me. Thank you!
January 9, 2022 at 2:28 pm
Linda Bozzo
Thanks for the reminder of using mash-ups!
January 9, 2022 at 2:28 pm
vgraboski61gmailcom
Thank you for the great inspiration! Hmmm, what do I like and what do I believe to be true?? Great food for thought.
January 9, 2022 at 2:31 pm
Deb McGarvey
Thank you for this. What a great reminder to keep our “antennas up” for those stories and ideas that speak to our particular perspective and strengths.
January 9, 2022 at 2:34 pm
R.G. Spaulding
What a true statement to keep your antennas up! Thank you, Kristen.
January 9, 2022 at 2:37 pm
Stephen S. Martin
so many people with stories to tell or to be told. Thank-you for the inspiration to seek them out.
January 9, 2022 at 2:38 pm
8catpaws
So ideas are all around like invisible breadcrumbs–you just have to shine your curiosity light on them!
January 9, 2022 at 2:39 pm
Annie Guerra
Very inspiring. I had no idea about the uproar with WonderWoman. Annie Guerra
January 9, 2022 at 2:39 pm
Krissy
Great post! Wonder woman ideas!!! Thank you!
January 9, 2022 at 2:40 pm
Margot Williams
Thank you for your insights!
January 9, 2022 at 2:40 pm
Chayala Nachum
Whoo! Go female empowerment!
January 9, 2022 at 2:41 pm
jbbower
Great advice! Lists are so helpful and you have given me some new ideas to think about! Thanks!
January 9, 2022 at 2:43 pm
Linda
Great ways to generate ideas! Thank you!
January 9, 2022 at 2:50 pm
Maureen (www.maureenfergus.com)
Brilliant suggestions, Kirsten. Thanks!
January 9, 2022 at 2:53 pm
Heather Stigall
I can’t wait to try this exercise! Thanks for the prompts to get my creative juices flowing today.
January 9, 2022 at 2:54 pm
Shannon Fossett
Thanks for sharing! My antenna are up! 🐜
January 9, 2022 at 2:55 pm
Jill Hilycord
Loved this post! I made my lists like it was homework due tomorrow. You gave me so much to think about. Thank you!
January 9, 2022 at 2:59 pm
Dianne Borowski
I dream about the millions of little girls who will grow up to be astronauts. I wonder if Maria will be one of them?
January 9, 2022 at 3:02 pm
ANNETTE MARTIN
Absolutely LOVE this. I had decided for 2022 I need to change my approach in order to change the type of story I write. Thank you!
January 9, 2022 at 3:02 pm
Jennie H
Love the reminder to pay attention and to bring an idea to life that’s sparked by passion/interests. Thank you!!
January 9, 2022 at 3:02 pm
Penny Parker Klostermann
Great post, Kirsten. You shared a lot of great advice and my favorite takeaway is that our stories have to capture our hearts and energize! How else can we make it through countless revisions to make the best book possible? We literally have to LOVE our story. Thanks for inspiring!
January 9, 2022 at 3:03 pm
mariearden
#2 – Making a list of my values and truths. That really speaks to me. I have many ideas, but don’t pursue almost all of them because they don’t really interest me enough to spend the huge amount of time needed to write them as a good picture book story. Thanks Kirsten for making it clearer to me why – they don’t align with my values or truths. I remember Candace Fleming talking about the themes in her stories and how they reflected her values. So good to keep in mind.
January 9, 2022 at 3:05 pm
Karin Larson
Great post and ideas to consider, thank you. I love the idea of factoring in one’s values and truths. It is surely the best way to create the heart of the story.
January 9, 2022 at 3:07 pm
S. K. Wenger
Thanks, Kirsten! I’m making my lists! Antennae are up!
January 9, 2022 at 3:07 pm
popdater
Thank you! This exercise took me to a road unexpected. 😉
January 9, 2022 at 3:20 pm
Savannah Rogers
Excellent advice, thank you.
Wow, look at all your books coming out! Your career is really taking flight! 😉
January 9, 2022 at 3:21 pm
triciahinely
I already have my antennae up, all the time, I have so many ideas, but I hadn’t thought about connecting with values and truths. I’m intrigued. I also have trouble getting things finished to the end. A talk with you might be just the ticket! Plus I have an idea that I might want to run by you!
January 9, 2022 at 3:22 pm
Sue Lowell Gallion
Kirsten, thanks for the thoughtful post and the encouragement to pay closer attention!
January 9, 2022 at 3:25 pm
ruthwilson48
Thanks so much for the motivation, Kirsten! And way to go with all your accomplishments. It’s really cool to hear from someone who used to work at NASA!
January 9, 2022 at 3:26 pm
Mary Lou Johnson
Ahhh…I just opened my file on the woman who crossed my path a while ago while working on a fictional picture book and added your name to my notes. I must read your books to get inspiration to proceed with this non-fiction work!
January 9, 2022 at 3:26 pm
MaryLee Flannigan
Thank you Kirsten!
January 9, 2022 at 3:27 pm
Jen Gubicza
Thanks for sharing these great tips! The clear, straightforward way in which you instruct us to actually list things on paper to fine-tune our antennae is going to be so helpful to this new writer.
January 9, 2022 at 3:28 pm
Hélène Sabourin
I like your way, I need to do some soul searching.
January 9, 2022 at 3:28 pm
claudine108
I loved this post, Kirsten! Very inspiring! I can’t wait to try the mash up idea! Congratulations on your success!
January 9, 2022 at 3:29 pm
Susan Eyerman
Antenna up and ready to catch what comes my way!
January 9, 2022 at 3:32 pm
pmv2452
Thank you for this! Appreciate your suggestions. Always rooting for the underdog!
January 9, 2022 at 3:36 pm
Anne C. Bromley
Thank you, Kirsten! Just what I needed to read today. Your advice is priceless.
January 9, 2022 at 3:37 pm
Bettie
Thank you for showing how to put up antennas and mash up ideas.
January 9, 2022 at 3:39 pm
Maria Marshall
Thanks Kirsten, love your underdogs! Great suggestions for being receptive for ideas. Can’t wait to see the new books.
January 9, 2022 at 3:40 pm
Dayne Sislen, Children's Book Illustrator
I’m always on the look out for new ideas. Thank you.
January 9, 2022 at 3:42 pm
Steena Hernandez
Thank you so much for this insightful post! Indulge in my interests really sticks with me, and can’t wait to mash up some ideas!
January 9, 2022 at 3:48 pm
Christine M Irvin
Thanks! I’ll work on fine-tuning my antenna!
January 9, 2022 at 3:48 pm
Brittney
Thanks for the tips! Excited to read your new books.
January 9, 2022 at 3:53 pm
imeldauk
Step 2 speaks to me me. Thank you
January 9, 2022 at 3:54 pm
Debora
I like this. So true that our own curiosity makes a great idea and our values bring in a needed element. Thank you
January 9, 2022 at 3:55 pm
Jay
Thank you Kirsten for sharing this wonderful post, full of great ideas.
January 9, 2022 at 3:55 pm
Buffy Silverman
Great suggestions! I’m making my mash up list.
January 9, 2022 at 4:00 pm
Cristina Chan
This post definitely resonates with me. I can’t wait to mash up some ideas 🙂 Thank you!
January 9, 2022 at 4:03 pm
Christine Graham
Thanks for the tips!
January 9, 2022 at 4:04 pm
Rona Shirdan
Thanks so much for your post and tips!
January 9, 2022 at 4:06 pm
Erik Ammon
My antennas are up and searching all around! Thanks for the ideas!
January 9, 2022 at 4:08 pm
Tory
This helped me generate a couple of really cool ideas!
January 9, 2022 at 4:11 pm
Angela H. Dale
Love underdogs – a great idea jumping-off point right there. Thanks.
January 9, 2022 at 4:19 pm
Robyn McGrath
Kristen- these are great suggestions! Antennas up!
January 9, 2022 at 4:28 pm
Debbie Meneses
Goodness, a one-hour (one-OUR) Zoom would be an incredible opportunity. Several manuscripts to share. Especially my story about moving ancestors’ bones from the country tomb to the city tomb. The spirits just might surround our chat. What are my truths? It was a frightening experience as an agnostic believer.
January 9, 2022 at 4:34 pm
Heather Morris
We love Wood Wire Wings, and I can’t wait to read your upcoming books, Kirsten! Thank you for a great article and for your generous offer!
January 9, 2022 at 4:35 pm
Deslie English
Thank you, Kirsten, for this: “if you train your antennas just right, you’ll pick up the story ideas only you can write.” Training is hard work sometimes, but necessary. Ideas fall into my lap, but I like the idea of training myself to tune in and identify the ones that are just what I want to write about.
January 9, 2022 at 4:36 pm
Kiralee Strong
Great read, good fresh take on idea generation. Thank you
January 9, 2022 at 4:36 pm
Angela Jelf
Aah what an inspiring and wonderful blog post Kirsten. I’m off to get my antenna up. Brilliant!
January 9, 2022 at 4:45 pm
chardixon47
Wow! Love this refreshing post and the line: “But I know if I indulge my interests and curiosity and reflect on my values, the ideas come in crystal clear.” Gonna get that antenna in motion! Thank you, Kirsten!
January 9, 2022 at 4:47 pm
juliannahelt
Great exercise! Thanks!
January 9, 2022 at 4:48 pm
Kylie Burns kysblog1
Thanks for this post, Kirsten. I’m truly inspired by your accomplishments. I think you might be approaching Wonder-Woman status yourself! Thanks for the reminder that story ideas are begging for us to notice them. – Kylie
January 9, 2022 at 4:50 pm
Claire A. B. Freeland
Previous mash up ideas haven’t worked for me, but this one just might because only things you care about are on the lists. That’s genius – thanks!
January 9, 2022 at 4:53 pm
meilin418
I love the idea of a combining topics with values and truths! The unique combination is how our MS can stand out! Off I go to follow my curiosities, thank you for a great post!
January 9, 2022 at 4:54 pm
Diane Kennedy
Thank you for your contribution to Story Storm 2022. I’m encouraged that if I dig hard enough into my interests and beliefs I can “mash them up” into some good stories. Always good to remember to keep your eyes and ears open too.
January 9, 2022 at 4:54 pm
authoraileenstewart
Rocket Scientist to Children’s Author is pretty awesome. Thanks for sharing your words of wisdom!
January 9, 2022 at 4:55 pm
TheHugBooks (@Hug_Books)
Can’t wait to have my daughters read you books!
January 9, 2022 at 4:56 pm
cathystenquist
Kirsten, you are so right! Storystorm perked my antennae up when I was watching the news and the list of schools closed for a snow day ran across my screen. I was so excited about the idea, within 24 hours I had a fairly good first draft. Just sent it off for critique. Thanks for your inspiring stories of discovery.
January 9, 2022 at 4:57 pm
Patricia
Thanks for the inspiration Kirsten, my story antennas are up now!
January 9, 2022 at 5:04 pm
Carolyn Kraft
Thank you for a truly inspiring post! I will be saving this one for sure. Now I’m off to embrace my curiosity.
January 9, 2022 at 5:05 pm
Lori Mozdzierz
Tweaking my antennas for better reception. Thanks for an aw-inspiring post, Kirsten!
January 9, 2022 at 5:07 pm
Maureen Marovitch
“Subverting notions about what heroes look like” – I love that! Thanks for the great blog post.
January 9, 2022 at 5:08 pm
Maureen Marovitch
“Subverting notions about what heroes look like” – I love that! Thanks for the great post.
January 9, 2022 at 5:18 pm
Paula Cohen Illustration
SUCH great ideas! Thank you, Kirsten!
January 9, 2022 at 5:23 pm
Helen Lys
Thanks for the inspiration! Can’t wait to mash some things up!
January 9, 2022 at 5:28 pm
Patricia J Holloway
Thank you for this inspiring post. Your suggestions speak to me of how I can write the story with true heart by relying on my truths and values. I’m on to making a list of my values and truths.
January 9, 2022 at 5:30 pm
Karen Lawler
My antennas are sparking as I write this!!! I always look for ideas but you gave it a different curve and started me searching the universe again! Thank you… 🙂
January 9, 2022 at 5:36 pm
charlie pinkhair👩🏻🎤 she/her (@CharliePinkhair)
Thank you for this post. This reminds me of Elizabeth Gilbert’s Big Magic – ideas are out there! I need to have my antennas out there more. 🙂
January 9, 2022 at 5:38 pm
lorishapiro
Thank you, Kirsten, for this unique way to get ideas! I have made my lists and already my brain is churning them around. You never know!
January 9, 2022 at 5:39 pm
Mara K Lansky
Thanks! I even have my thoughts going when sleeping. I keep a notepad by my bed.
January 9, 2022 at 5:39 pm
Eileen Saunders
Thanks for your post. My antennas were up this morning. I met a visiting naturalist during my morning beach walk. She told me of a recent dolphin-watching experience and BOOM… I’ve already started writing a cool PB story. Antennas up!!
January 9, 2022 at 5:39 pm
Lisa Billa
Thanks for these great ideas! Combining interesting subjects and themes with personal importance sounds simple but leads to stories worth sticking with. Congratulations on your upcoming books- I’m in a family of astronomy geeks and especially look forward to The Fire of Stars!
January 9, 2022 at 5:43 pm
Charlotte Glaze
I love this. Thanks.
January 9, 2022 at 5:44 pm
Mary Jo Huff
Congratulations and you have my antennas upright. Try everyday to find something to write in my journal and to move me forward. Thanks you!
January 9, 2022 at 5:46 pm
Diane M
Great advice. Paying attention and writing what you really care about shows in the work.
January 9, 2022 at 5:47 pm
Summer Hinderer
Wonderful advice! Thank you!
January 9, 2022 at 5:53 pm
Gemma Bushell
Thank you. It’s a reminder that the non fiction story that keeps bugging me is probably one that I should put on my list!
January 9, 2022 at 5:53 pm
Anne Wan
Such a refreshing read today! Brilliant advice. Will definitely dust off those story antenna!
January 9, 2022 at 5:56 pm
Sharon Coffey
Kirsten, thank you for reminding us that ideas are waiting everywhere out there. We just have to be receptive to them. Love that you shared about your Wonder Woman underoos.
January 9, 2022 at 5:56 pm
Marsha Weiner
thank you for this very clear insights.
truly appreciated!
January 9, 2022 at 5:58 pm
Bella Haeusel
What similarities are there in working with rocket scientists and working on children’s books?
January 9, 2022 at 6:00 pm
Yvette Pais
Hello Kirsten, thank you for this post! I love the suggestion of thinking about our values/truths and the topics that interest us. Sounds like fun the idea of mashing it up. I’m going to try this. 🙂
January 9, 2022 at 6:01 pm
Tanja Bauerle
fine-tuning your antennas – I love it. Thank you for a fantastic post today. T
January 9, 2022 at 6:04 pm
amievc
Thanks for such a helpful post–a lot of good work to do and fun ways to find ideas!
January 9, 2022 at 6:05 pm
Bonnie Kelso
Thank you, Kirsten, for your great advice. I will brush off my antennas and get to work!
January 9, 2022 at 6:10 pm
Michelle Dragalin
I like those suggestions!!
January 9, 2022 at 6:10 pm
Marie Chan
Thanks Kirsten for sharing! So interesting to hear that your inspiration for Wood, Wire, Wings came from Rosie Revere, Engineer. Love these suggestions to look at what you’re passionate about and your values and truths to find your stories that will help you persist in revisions. Hooray for underdogs!
January 9, 2022 at 6:16 pm
Sarah Meade
This is an excellent post. Thanks for sharing your words of wisdom, Kirsten!
January 9, 2022 at 6:19 pm
Cedar Pruitt
Kristen always inspires me! Thanks for the post!
January 9, 2022 at 6:19 pm
Carole Marie
Thank you for the great tips!
January 9, 2022 at 6:21 pm
savoringeverymoment
I love that you got an idea for a picture book from another picture book 😁
January 9, 2022 at 6:21 pm
rindabeach
I can do this! I’ve got my antennae up! I’m always curious. I look at things from my POV/truth/values, and I know how to mash things together. I have an idea about Neal Armstrong I rejected in 2019. I started thinking about it in the fall, and now I’m sure I need to take a ‘whack’ at it!
January 9, 2022 at 6:23 pm
tmvogel
Your process and advice are so empowering! Thank you for sharing and I can’t wait to dig into the books you have coming out.
January 9, 2022 at 6:28 pm
Amy Bradshaw
Great advice, especially on the values and truths! Your post sparked a lot of ideas today while thinking of mine! Thank you!
January 9, 2022 at 6:29 pm
kirstenbockblog
Great advice! I love an underdog too. There is something so satisfying about them showing the world up!
January 9, 2022 at 6:30 pm
Laura Purdie Salas
Fun exercise–thank you, Kirsten!
January 9, 2022 at 6:31 pm
Kaye Baillie
Your books are amazing, Kirsten and I love the mashup suggestion. Thankyou.
January 9, 2022 at 6:33 pm
Meredith Fraser
What a marvelous idea. Going to start my lists immediately.
Thank you and congratulations!
January 9, 2022 at 6:35 pm
Jessica Coupé
Love the idea of story antenna, thanks!
January 9, 2022 at 6:38 pm
Judy Bradbury
Your books sound great, and written from the heart: the best kinds of books. Thanks for your post!
January 9, 2022 at 6:39 pm
Carol Gwin Nelson
My antennas are up and ready for an idea. I know they are all around me, I just have to tune them in!
January 9, 2022 at 6:41 pm
Sarah Hetu-Radny
Kirsten, thank you for your wonderful post! I am going to make the lists and mash them up ASAP! Congrats on your forthcoming books, too!
January 9, 2022 at 6:47 pm
writeremmcbride
Kirsten, this is such a helpful post! I believe that the stories that reflect our values and passions are the ones that will resonate best with readers. Your unique approach is very helpful, especially since I was thinking about my struggle to meld the various genres in which I am interested. Thank you so much!
January 9, 2022 at 6:48 pm
Susan Jobsky
Story antennae, hmmmmm. I’m picking up story signals already. Thank you for sharing.
January 9, 2022 at 6:48 pm
Della Ferreri
Putting up my antennas! Thanks for insightful post!
January 9, 2022 at 6:49 pm
aidantalkin
Wonderful idea catching techniques!
January 9, 2022 at 6:51 pm
Alexandra
This post went straight to my heart. Thank you for such a wonderful framework to work from. I also write NF and come from a science background. It can be a challenge to let the emotional connection rise to the surface sometimes. But it’s there. Always.
January 9, 2022 at 6:52 pm
jhall2018
I’m a big fan of underdogs too! And speaking of under…my Underoos were R2D2. Although I think I would’ve preferred Wonder Woman. I look forward to mashing some things – thank you!
January 9, 2022 at 7:01 pm
chaunceyelephant
I love that you searched within yourself for meaningful ideas – for all the work that goes into a book, it makes sense to write about something for which your care deeply.
January 9, 2022 at 7:04 pm
brontebrown2
Believe in your core values and underdogs can change the world.
January 9, 2022 at 7:04 pm
Gabriella Aldeman
Thank you! I’ll try to keep my interests in mind.
January 9, 2022 at 7:06 pm
loricevans
So much fun to read this post and all the Storystorm posts. They are so well-written and full of a wealth of information. I find not just the prompt or inspiration for the day, but also all the information about the authors so wonderful. I like to check out the links to their websites and look at all the beautiful books they have written. Today was interesting to see how Ms Larson includes her passions in so many of her books – robots, aviation, women role-models. Can’t wait to see what will come tomorrow!
January 9, 2022 at 7:12 pm
EmmieRWerner
I love the heart of your message❤️
January 9, 2022 at 7:13 pm
claireannette1
Thank you for this encouraging post, Kirsten. I’m so glad you found the stories for your books. My antennae are up and I’m making my list.
January 9, 2022 at 7:15 pm
Charles Richardson
I love a good step by step process. Thanks.
January 9, 2022 at 7:18 pm
Chloe Ward
Love this post! Time to start carrying a small journal for PB ideas!
January 9, 2022 at 7:19 pm
Joan Swanson
I love the mish mash of ideas to make a story. Underdogs who save the day are my favorite 🙂
January 9, 2022 at 7:21 pm
Katie
Can’t wait to go to work tomorrow with my “antennas up”!
January 9, 2022 at 7:26 pm
Alicia Shawn Gagnon
Brilliant rocket scientist writes amazing children’s books. Your life sounds like a good mash up! Thanks for the inspiration.
January 9, 2022 at 7:27 pm
nicolesalterbraun
Great post. I love researching for my stories
January 9, 2022 at 7:28 pm
Sophie Furman✨Illustrator (@SophieFurmanArt)
I love this post! I like how there are steps, and I realized that I get ideas like this too sometimes, only now the process is more quantified after reading your post! Looking up all of your books now, and lots of new ideas are streaming in!
January 9, 2022 at 7:31 pm
Jud Ward
My passion is biology but so many of the ideas I come up with turn out to have already been done. When I do come upon something new, some editors will comment that it hasn’t been done so maybe it’s not popular enough to invest in. I’m encouraged that you found new topics and got them published!
January 9, 2022 at 7:32 pm
Aundra Tomlins
I love how your ideas grew and your curiosity and truths mashed up.
January 9, 2022 at 7:34 pm
Melissa K
Love the metaphor of antennas . . .hmmm
January 9, 2022 at 7:44 pm
geigerlin
Many possibilities come to mind. Thank you, Kirsten
January 9, 2022 at 7:45 pm
serenagingoldallen
I totally agree that ideas don’t have to be generated! Loved your post.
January 9, 2022 at 7:47 pm
Rebecca Ralfe
So inspiring, I’d love to pick your brains!
January 9, 2022 at 7:50 pm
Cinzia
It’s a whole universe of ideas just waiting to be plucked. Thank you so much!
January 9, 2022 at 7:50 pm
Shelley Isaacson
I love these tips–tangible (and numbered!) I’m staring with the newspaper. Every single day.
January 9, 2022 at 7:58 pm
setwiggs
Yes i have passions and themes and I will put them to work and keep out a watchful eye. Ideas are everywhere.
January 9, 2022 at 7:59 pm
curryelizabeth
Thanks for the great tips! Congratulations on your success!
January 9, 2022 at 8:00 pm
Jojo Kasala
Staying true to my values & morals while spreading a message creatively-great advice!
January 9, 2022 at 8:07 pm
Kay
Great advice thanks
January 9, 2022 at 8:13 pm
Jaime
I will keep my antennas up! Thank you, wonderful tips
January 9, 2022 at 8:14 pm
@DekkerMeagan
Thank you for the reminder to focus on the truths and values I believe and mash them with the subjects that intrigue me! Love to! Thanks, Kristen!
January 9, 2022 at 8:16 pm
rosihollinbeck
Yes, antenna up and mash-up ideas in mind. Excellent post to inspire us all. Thanks!
January 9, 2022 at 8:16 pm
kbottagaro
When we get busy and in our heads, it’s easy to forget how to be open to new story ideas. Thanks for the reminder to always keep our antennas up and searching. This process has clearly worked for you!
January 9, 2022 at 8:23 pm
Kelly Perkins
Thank you Kirsten, todays writing chalk age makes me smile 🙂 And right off the bat, something flew into my head about something today 🙂
January 9, 2022 at 8:24 pm
Tootie Nienow
I am a huge fan of your books and your ideas in this post. Thank you for all you do!
January 9, 2022 at 8:25 pm
steveheron
Yes!! Love your three steps.
January 9, 2022 at 8:27 pm
Marcia Berneger
It’s fun to see how you get ideas! I’m practicing a new type of art, so I’m drawing random characters every day. There’s a story hiding in each one I draw.
January 9, 2022 at 8:33 pm
Jess Burbank (@jburbank)
I love this list-making and mashup idea. Thank you!
January 9, 2022 at 8:36 pm
Kris Tarantino
Great inspiration!
January 9, 2022 at 8:45 pm
Dena Davis
Love this notion of catching ideas and the best ones being rooted in your interests and values. An idea for a story came quickly! Thank you!
January 9, 2022 at 8:47 pm
Marci Whitehurst
Fantastic! Antennas are going up! Thanks!
January 9, 2022 at 8:50 pm
Sherry Smith
Hi Kirsten, I too find many of my ideas for stories by accident and being open. It’s great editors are willing to publish stories about people that might not be well known but deserve a book about them.
January 9, 2022 at 8:51 pm
aturner513
I love this post Kirsten! Your books are great and I look forward to reading your new ones. Now to get my antennas up!
January 9, 2022 at 8:56 pm
cravevsworld
Thank you for the inspirational post!
January 9, 2022 at 8:58 pm
Fern Glazer
Thank you, Kirsten! I’ve been reading a lot about how we writers create and it seems to be as much about what you do, but also what you don’t do. Not ideating, not worrying, not forcing. The work, I am finding after so many years, is about being prepared and open and that’s when things start to flow. It’s truly magic when it happens, right? You got my antenna up, for sure.
January 9, 2022 at 9:08 pm
Tracy Abell
I very much appreciate your reminder to take our truths and values into consideration. Thank you and congratulations on all the upcoming books!
January 9, 2022 at 9:11 pm
Lucretia Schafroth
Thank you for sharing your insights, Kirsten. They are wise words from which to gain writing inspiration and success!
January 9, 2022 at 9:13 pm
wordnerd153
I put my antenna up while walking my dog tonight and got inspired by then fireworks I heard. Thanks for the advice!
January 9, 2022 at 9:16 pm
Writer on the run
Great post- thank you Kirsten! This is making me think back to my passions.
January 9, 2022 at 9:24 pm
Jan Milusich
Great suggestions!
January 9, 2022 at 9:25 pm
Ana Paula Fagundes
Super inspirational, thank you!
January 9, 2022 at 9:26 pm
seschipper
Thanks, Kristen! Great reminder to keep our antenna up at all times! 🙂
January 9, 2022 at 9:28 pm
Judy Sobanski
Great idea to make lists and mash up the ideas!
January 9, 2022 at 9:29 pm
Julie Reich
Thank you for the great ideas, and congrats on all your books!
January 9, 2022 at 9:46 pm
roberta abussi
Congratulations on your books. Time to write my lists and mash everything up! 🙂
January 9, 2022 at 9:47 pm
Lonna Hill
I loved my Wonder Woman Underoos! The best superhero ever! Thanks for this inspiring post!
January 9, 2022 at 9:51 pm
Joy Wieder
I love the idea of keeping our antennas up to pick up on the inspiration all around us!
January 9, 2022 at 9:54 pm
Ines Taylor (@Tayi52)
Thank you for the great ideas! I’m always looking for a child’s perspective of any situation. Most of the time I learn more about the child than the actual situation. Because I open myself to their ideas, children feel free to share their thoughts and even their opinions.
January 9, 2022 at 9:57 pm
htaylorwrites
Great advice, thank you, Kirsten! Off to give my antennae a tune-up now…
January 9, 2022 at 9:59 pm
E T Charles
Thank you so much. Really enjoyed all of the post.
January 9, 2022 at 10:01 pm
girlscout72091
Terrific! Sometimes even just going through your old bucket of ideas helps as well. Stuff written decades ago suddenly becomes a spark of inspiration with a different lens looking at it again.
January 9, 2022 at 10:03 pm
streetlynn
Excellent exercises, Kirsten! I will have fun with these. Lynn
January 9, 2022 at 10:09 pm
Christine Van Zandt, author of A BRIEF HISTORY OF UNDERPANTS
I like how you got a picture-book idea from a picture book! Looking forward to reading your new books.
January 9, 2022 at 10:11 pm
Stefanie Hohl
Great post!
January 9, 2022 at 10:13 pm
Gabi Snyder
I’m a fan of underdogs, too. Thanks for the inspiration and the great advice, Kirsten!
January 9, 2022 at 10:27 pm
ldodson100
Great way to generate unique ideas!
January 9, 2022 at 10:34 pm
Ashley Sierra (@AshleySierra06)
So many tips in one post to generate ideas. Thanks!
January 9, 2022 at 10:37 pm
dedra davis
I keep my antennas up anytime I’m outside. Nature inspires me! I love your suggestions!
January 9, 2022 at 10:38 pm
Lindsay Bartlett
What a fantastic post- thank you so much! Go the underdogs!
January 9, 2022 at 10:40 pm
Elizabeth Shreeve
This is such a great alchemy for us! Thanks and thank you for your books.
January 9, 2022 at 10:42 pm
shirley301
I love your suggestion to keep our antennas up to generate ideas.
January 9, 2022 at 10:43 pm
Manju Beth Howard (@ManjuBeth)
Hi Kristen, I love the concept of your new book. And I’m interested in reading THE FIRE OF STARS.
January 9, 2022 at 10:52 pm
Susan Gruidel
My antennae are up! Great advice. It’s almost like hearing something no one else hears in the static. Wish these skills were stronger, but always a good reminder to look closer. Thank you!
January 9, 2022 at 11:02 pm
Amy Tsao
I like the idea of delving into your passions. We engage with our own passions so uniquely, it seems to be we can’t help but write about them in a unique way.
January 9, 2022 at 11:05 pm
kimpfenn
Can’t wait to read your books coming out! Thanks for the fabulous tips of getting in touch with our truths and values and keeping our antennas up!
January 9, 2022 at 11:06 pm
tinamcho
Great post, Kirsten! That is so cool how you came up with your ideas! I have my antennas up!
January 9, 2022 at 11:07 pm
Janet Frenck Sheets
Hmm, I’ve made lists of topics that fascinate me, but I’ve never tried to combine them with the values I find important. Intriguing suggestion! Thank you.
January 9, 2022 at 11:11 pm
Tonya K. Grant
I love the idea of embracing my curiosity. Thanks, Kirsten!
January 9, 2022 at 11:17 pm
Jeannette Suhr
Thank you, Kirsten, for all the wonderful ideas to help generate stories. I’m excited to make these lists about curiosities and values and truths and see what ideas are generated to add to my StoryStorm collection. I read “Wood, Wire, Wings” and loved your book. I also read Rosie Revere.
I look forward to reading your other books and I wish you continued success with your publications and a Happy New Year!
January 9, 2022 at 11:29 pm
Catherine Palazzola
This was such a great post – thank you!!!
January 9, 2022 at 11:33 pm
Becky Ross Michael
I like your way of looking at things, Kirsten!
January 9, 2022 at 11:41 pm
Sue
Oh! A fellow federal employee. I worked for the Forest Service. I laugh when I write fiction – I keep wanting to come back to the facts!! Thanks Kirsten for sharing!
January 9, 2022 at 11:41 pm
cindyhutter
Thanks for the great post
January 9, 2022 at 11:45 pm
viviankirkfield
I remember how I loved the menu in the Chinese restaurant years ago…pick one from A and one from B…thank you for laying out a fabulous idea menu for creating a winning picture book: pick one idea from a topic you are curious about with one of your truths/values. I’m on it, Kirsten! Super post!
January 9, 2022 at 11:45 pm
paulajbecker
This is a unique approach for me. Thanks for sharing this, Kirsten!
January 9, 2022 at 11:48 pm
Elizabeth Westra
Kirsten, I like your suggestions about making lists of everything your interested in and what you believe in your heart. Then run with it! I’m going to keep my antennas up for ideas!
January 9, 2022 at 11:48 pm
denitajohnson
Thanks Kirsten, I will have my antennas up!
January 9, 2022 at 11:50 pm
sharongiltrow
Thank you for sharing with us how your ideas are captured :-).
January 9, 2022 at 11:59 pm
Sydnie Kleinhenz
Thanks for the good idea to do a mash-up of interests and values.
January 10, 2022 at 12:00 am
CB Jarapa
Thank you! It’s good advice to know your values and truths. I think this will point you in the right direction when you create your theme.
I also had a wonder woman outfit when I was younger- complete with the wrist bands and headwear 😅
January 10, 2022 at 12:01 am
hfr2006
I love this idea of writing a book based around your values. Going to go brainstorm right now!
January 10, 2022 at 12:05 am
Roxanne Troup
Congratulations on your many successes! Thanks for sharing your inspiration.
January 10, 2022 at 12:17 am
erinragankelly
Great ideas! Thank you for the inspiration.
January 10, 2022 at 12:20 am
Kenda Henthorn
Such an inspiration!! Thank You, Kirsten!!
January 10, 2022 at 12:26 am
Marla Yablon
Thanks for your inspiring ideas!
January 10, 2022 at 12:32 am
sharonkdal
My antennas are up! Thank you!
January 10, 2022 at 12:34 am
wyszguy
Thanks for the great reminder!
January 10, 2022 at 12:57 am
TL Fales
Write what you know is a very intimidating piece of advice for me, but a list of things I’d like to know is more accessible. Thanks for the encouragement.
January 10, 2022 at 12:58 am
Mary Nelson
I LOVE the idea of mining your own life for ideas! I wasn’t a big Wonder Woman fan as a kid, l bur I really liked Gardner McKay (Adventures in Paradise) So….boats, sailing, travel, helping others, adventure…..how can I “mash” that up with, say, kittens? Ha!
January 10, 2022 at 1:01 am
Dawn Prochovnic
Thank you for suggesting we merge our curiosities and our values/truths.
January 10, 2022 at 1:03 am
carmelamccainsimmons
Your post has put me back on track. I have been trying to generate MS by chasing formulas of miscellaneous characters and plots lately, then trying to force them into stories. But that is it how I found my previous stories at all. I should continue to investigate those ideas that all to my curiosity, those which naturally interest me!
January 10, 2022 at 1:04 am
Crystal ES
Awesome food for thought in this post! Thank you for sharing.
January 10, 2022 at 1:11 am
Chantelle Thorne
Just tried the ‘mash up’ and I love the idea that developed – thank you!
January 10, 2022 at 1:13 am
tinefg
How exciting to have worked with rocket scientists (there’s definitely got to be some good story fodder there)! Love the idea of mashing up values with hobbies/curiosities… hmm time to start growing those lists. Thank you
January 10, 2022 at 1:32 am
allisonrozo
Fantastic advice! My antenna is up! Thank you Kirsten!
January 10, 2022 at 1:37 am
Kimberly Grace
Writing my list of things that interest me right now!!
January 10, 2022 at 1:50 am
Armineh Manookian
Love this concept of writing about the underdogs. Thank you, Kirsten!
January 10, 2022 at 1:53 am
Laken Windham
Encouraging to know even such an incredible author fears running out of ideas! I will keep my antennas up and in tune with my own interests and abilities! Thank you for the wonderful advice:)
January 10, 2022 at 1:57 am
Ashley Bankhead
Thank you for this post! I love the idea you had of mashing up your ideas from both lists. And it is important to keep our antenna up. There are so many ideas out there, and if our antenna are up, we will find the ones that resonate the most with us. Thanks again for sharing.
January 10, 2022 at 2:11 am
Haley Thomas
Definitely need to make a list of my interests and values and see how they connect. Thank you for your post!
January 10, 2022 at 2:15 am
Chiara Beth Colombi (@ChiaraBColombi)
Love this brilliant mash-up inspiration, Kirsten, and hearing about the inspiration for each of your books!
January 10, 2022 at 2:30 am
mariamarianayagam
Great advice, Kirsten!! It’s so true—our stories are already in and around us, somewhere. Just need to find them! Thank you for sharing.
January 10, 2022 at 2:36 am
ivankadimitrova
This is such great advice. Look within and write what you are passionate about. I love combining the interests list with the values. How truly inspired! Thank you so much for these nuggets of wisdom.
January 10, 2022 at 2:39 am
Gaby
Your words are powerful, and inspirational!!!!!!
You let me go back, and visualized me doing the things that I used to love. Thanks Kirsten you are amazing!!!!!
January 10, 2022 at 2:42 am
Yusuf Gabr
Great article and clear steps! Thank you for sharing.
January 10, 2022 at 2:43 am
Alia Khaled
Great article and clear steps! Thank you for sharing.
January 10, 2022 at 3:25 am
Elizabeth Kalasinsky
I read Wood, Wire, Wings before I read Rosie Revere—so I knew who Emma Todd was! Thanks for this fun and helpful post.
January 10, 2022 at 3:38 am
bonnie fireUrchin ~ pb illustration & writing
Thanks for affirming how you get your ideas. Just from the book cover art, I had a strong suspicion there was a tie in to Rosie Revere. It’s always good to know how one creator can spin their own way of approaching a story that doesn’t copy nor negate the other.
I’m making lists again – from your suggestions – and open to surprises.
January 10, 2022 at 3:59 am
Heather Kinser
Great post! I love the encouragement to incorporate your personal values and passions into your work. The more I write, the more I notice themes re-emerging in my own work, and it’s so interesting to see my true self sort of emerging out of my writing. Thanks for the excellent guidance.
January 10, 2022 at 4:30 am
Brandon Rodriguez
Utilizing your own loves and planning around your values and truths can create some excitement and passion for your stories. This has already set off some kind of artistic ideas to jump around in my head. I need to hurry and get started with the drawings and writings of some fun thoughts. Thanks
January 10, 2022 at 4:40 am
Lina Feli (@lina_feli1)
I agree Kirsten! it’s not about where you get your ideas. It’s what you do when you get them…
January 10, 2022 at 6:09 am
Leila Boukarim
This is fantastic advice, Kirsten. Thank you for this and for all the wonderful work you do!
January 10, 2022 at 6:44 am
Mary E. Cronin
What a wonderful method, Kristen, that truly comes from the core of each writer. Thank you!
January 10, 2022 at 7:06 am
TammyB
Thank you for this post! I am going to follow your prompts and see where it takes me.
January 10, 2022 at 7:31 am
Sarah K. Rose
Thank you for this post! Keeping my antennae’s up!
January 10, 2022 at 7:34 am
kaleegwarjanski
This idea reminds of Big Magic. Ideas are out there, looking for someone. We need to be open to receive them. Thank you for the inspiration!
January 10, 2022 at 7:54 am
Tamara Rittershaus
Great ideas for story inspiration! My current inspiration is witches, but I’m wondering if that’s a bit overdone. We’ll see what ideas I mash up!
January 10, 2022 at 8:18 am
Catherine
Thank you Kirsten, I will be keeping my
antennas UP! Great article.
January 10, 2022 at 8:52 am
allthingscreativeequal
Thank you for this advice. Excited to see what signal I might pick up today.
January 10, 2022 at 9:06 am
Freda Lewkowicz
Thank you for the antenna metaphor. It will be helpful.
January 10, 2022 at 9:13 am
melissamiles1
Great post, and I’m blown away at your generosity to Zoom with an aspiring writer! Thank you for reminding us to keep our antenna’s tuned in!
January 10, 2022 at 9:39 am
Mary Zychowicz
Thank you for your encouraging post. I need to be more intentional about keeping my antennae up and watching for those unsung heroes. I enjoyed WOOD, WIRE and WINGS. Looking forward to your upcoming books.
January 10, 2022 at 9:41 am
adavis6385
Love the idea of considering your values! They’re always woven into my stories but being purposeful as part of the brainstorming process is something new to consider! Thanks!
January 10, 2022 at 9:42 am
nycbgriffin
Inspiring post! Especially because of the alchemical possibilities that may arise from “mashing up” parts one and two. Love it.
January 10, 2022 at 9:45 am
Jennifer Bukovec
Kirsten, thank you so much for sharing this approach! It really takes away that pressured feeling of having to come up with an idea out of thin air! I am excited to brainstorm my interests and values and see what appears.
By the way, I too had the Wonder Woman underoos – AND bathing suit!
I am so excited to read your book about her!
Xox Jen
January 10, 2022 at 9:54 am
debbiearnn
Ooo! I love the idea of mashing up interests with truths/beliefs! Great ideas will come from this!!!
January 10, 2022 at 10:05 am
romontanaro
Well, THAT just filled up a few pages of my book, and offered some wonderful moments. Tara and Kirsten, thank you so much! And congratulations on your wonderful books. All the best! Thank you thank you!
January 10, 2022 at 10:08 am
donnacangelosi
Such a helpful post! Thank you for the reminder to mash up our interests and truths!
January 10, 2022 at 10:14 am
Christina Dendy
I can’t wait to see this one: French art curator Rose Valland, who secretly spied on the Nazis for years, is an underdog too. She’s the subject of my first middle grade graphic novel, THE LIGHT OF RESISTANCE, illustrated by Barbara McClintock.
January 10, 2022 at 10:25 am
Jane Heitman Healy
Great inquiry steps that can generate endless stories! Congrats on your publishing success, and here’s to all of us keeping our anntennae up!
January 10, 2022 at 10:28 am
Jennifer B Wright
Now that’s a bio!! NASA engineer turned PB author! Wow. I also love the idea of making lists of your interests and truths and the “mash it up” This is fantastic. Thank you for sharing your expertise and advice with us!
January 10, 2022 at 10:37 am
rrmalinrr
Mashing it up = more than 1 theme. One for the kids. One for the adults. And one for the inbetween.
January 10, 2022 at 10:38 am
DaNeil Olson
Thank you for this post and the amazing suggestions!
January 10, 2022 at 10:45 am
Bethany Walker (@bookshelfofbeth)
Love the idea of mashing up your truths and values with interests or hooks. Thank you for the great ideas! Also, I would definitely read a pirate book with found family vibes.
January 10, 2022 at 10:51 am
Andrea Denish
Thank you for adding your perspective. Raising my antennae.
January 10, 2022 at 10:55 am
bonnigoldberg
Love the idea of mashing up my values with popular character types, etc. Makes so much sense.
January 10, 2022 at 11:00 am
Jamie Bills
Thank you so much! Sometimes I finish a manuscript and then try to find what growth or value it is teaching, I am sure it would be much more helpful to have that nailed down first. Awesome post!
January 10, 2022 at 11:05 am
Rita Jane
Haaahahaha! That was so fun, Kristen! I meshed my love of helping children learn to write with my value of silliness. Hilarity ensued and I’m looking forward to seeing if this can become something more! Thanks for the prompt
January 10, 2022 at 11:12 am
mbtgroupcb
Thanks for sharing your process of idea generation Kirsten. I find I have so many ideas…and then trying to hone in on that ONE! This helps pair back the onion a bit more with additional questions.:)
January 10, 2022 at 11:17 am
Rebekah Start
I love this concept thanks for the inspiration!
January 10, 2022 at 11:18 am
susan contreras
thank you- I am looking forward to working on my lists.
January 10, 2022 at 11:23 am
Kate
Great post! Tuning up my antennas – as soon as I separate the cobwebs 🙂
January 10, 2022 at 11:27 am
Darcee Freier
Love the idea of tuning antennas, and finding an idea right in the midst of an existing PB. Great! And thanks!
January 10, 2022 at 11:37 am
Rebekah
now I can’t stop picturing little antennas on my head! lol, love it
January 10, 2022 at 11:53 am
susaninez0905
Thanks for the reminder that ideas are there, you just need to pay attention!
January 10, 2022 at 12:06 pm
Abby Wooldridge
“I don’t think ideas have to be generated. They’re already out there just waiting for you to catch them.” I love this! Thank you for such a great post, Kirsten! I’ll be on the lookout for some magic today! 🙂
January 10, 2022 at 12:07 pm
Jennifer Rathe
Love the advice of how to point our antennas in the right direction. Find the clear signal instead of the fuzzy one!
January 10, 2022 at 12:20 pm
Rochelle Y Melander
This is brilliant! Thank you!
January 10, 2022 at 12:21 pm
Michele Rietz
Thank you, Kirsten, for this writing advice! I love the thought of ideas flowing in, (with a little background work from me, of course. 🙂
I can’t wait to see what things I can mash up. I love the concept of taking something I’m interested in and combining it with one or more of my values. Exciting!
Congratulations on your picture book success! You are a great example to follow.
January 10, 2022 at 12:22 pm
Angela De Groot
Kirsten, thanks for showing us how to tune our antennas. I love writing posts with steps.
January 10, 2022 at 12:26 pm
Becky Walker
Thanks for the reminder to have our antennas up!
January 10, 2022 at 12:35 pm
Ellen Leventhal
What great ideas! I know this is about the idea phase, but this just helped me with some revision. Something was missing, and the mash up is SO helpful. Thanks!
January 10, 2022 at 12:39 pm
Stephanie S
Thank you for the steps to find a story. I really like this plan of action!
January 10, 2022 at 12:39 pm
Susan Wollison
I’d never thought of this before what a great idea.
January 10, 2022 at 12:42 pm
allyenz
KIrsten, I love this advice and perspective so much! The more I try to “generate” ideas, the more discouraged I can get, because A. They’re all fine/good, but it’s all in the execution anyway and B. I have a hard time sticking to the “great idea” because I have so many. BUT, if it’s truly a passion/obsession, better yet, something that I am still trying to understand myself, I will stay with it. THANKS for such a great reminder.
January 10, 2022 at 12:44 pm
Stephanie S
Thanks for the amazing post!
January 10, 2022 at 12:49 pm
Lisa Gaines
When I first started looking for ideas I struggled. Now they are everywhere I see and my idea dump list is way too long. 😛
January 10, 2022 at 12:56 pm
Susie Sawyer
This is a great reminder to always pay attention to what moves us, inspires us, interests us! And I find that when I practice keeping my mind open to receiving new ideas, they come to me faster and faster! Thank you, Kirsten!
January 10, 2022 at 12:57 pm
shelly
thank you. i like the visual of antennas go up!!! V – those are my two antennas.
January 10, 2022 at 12:57 pm
Linda Hofke
Thanks for the reminder. My antennas are now up.
January 10, 2022 at 1:06 pm
maureenegan
This alone should engender 31 ideas! Thank you.
January 10, 2022 at 1:15 pm
Cheryl Johnson
Love this line ~ if you train your antennas just right, you’ll pick up the story ideas only you can write.
And that’s exactly what happened this morning at the Biggby drive up window with their question board. 🙂
January 10, 2022 at 1:19 pm
Anne Appert
I love starting with a list. Mashing two lists together is a great idea! Thank you for such an excellent post.
January 10, 2022 at 1:31 pm
tasha woodson
this mash-it-up approach is already sparking my imagination…thank you!
January 10, 2022 at 1:33 pm
reluctantspy
I agree with you — ideas are everywhere – and yes, once I finish one, I never know if there will be another. So, it’s always a surprise.
January 10, 2022 at 1:34 pm
laurelneme
Wonderful post, Kirsten!! Love giving my “antennas” more freedom, and myself permission to listen to them.
January 10, 2022 at 1:35 pm
Claudia Sloan
Thanks for the 3-steps process – it’s gotten me started! 🙂 Congrats on your books!
January 10, 2022 at 1:56 pm
Barbara Senenman
I love these ideas. Thank you. And when I think of antennas, I think of bunny ear antennae and the days of having to hold them and not move to get the reception.
January 10, 2022 at 2:06 pm
Linda Silvestri
Activating antennas now! Step 1 and Step 2 are perfect things to mashup.Thanks for the wonderful perspective and the tips.
January 10, 2022 at 2:16 pm
authorlaurablog
Embrace curiosity was my mantra with my students! So many of them were never given permission to read about something they were interested in. It’s a game changer.
January 10, 2022 at 2:22 pm
Audrey
The idea that “ideas” need to be “caught” is one I think of often thanks to Elizabeth Gilbert’s book BIG MAGIC. Thank you for reaffirming that thought/belief and putting together a practical application of it!
January 10, 2022 at 2:24 pm
storycatcherpublishing
I’m curious about everything in the world around me…nature, people, cultures, foods…everything! I am constantly writing down things which interest me on sticky notes. Maybe it’s time I start collecting them in my Storystorm “doodle” book?
Great post!
Donna L Martin
January 10, 2022 at 2:27 pm
AC Perry
Thank you! Some creative ideas are certain to surface when meshing interests with values.
January 10, 2022 at 2:32 pm
Julia Lyon
I think you’re 1000 percent right on the antenna idea!!
January 10, 2022 at 2:37 pm
Daryl Gottier
Hmmm honing in on my truths and values has really made me think. And I already have a few ideas. Thanks!
January 10, 2022 at 2:38 pm
susanpbednargmailcom
So helpful…thank you!! 🙂
January 10, 2022 at 2:43 pm
Susanne and Colton
Antennas Up! Curiosity Embraced! Always!
January 10, 2022 at 2:49 pm
Holly
Story antennas… I love this way of thinking and combining. It’s a lot easier to come up with things you want to learn more about than “that perfect hook”. 🙂
January 10, 2022 at 2:53 pm
marshaelyn
Kirsten, Your three-point method is unique and practical as well as a worthy springboard for catching story ideas. Observe “life” all around us. You’re spot on that stories are floating and flying by us all day…even in our dreams. I’ll keep the visual of “Story Antennas” in my mind as I walkabout my days. Thank you for your insight. Sending you energy and inspiration for your next success…
January 10, 2022 at 2:59 pm
Melanie Ellsworth
Thanks, Kirsten – you’ve given us lots to ponder!
January 10, 2022 at 3:07 pm
suejeanko
Your values and truths. So true. Very wise advice. This would make a great webinar!
January 10, 2022 at 3:16 pm
Matt Tesoriero
I’m sorry. I stopped reading after the word NASA! LOL.
January 10, 2022 at 3:17 pm
sherry fellores
My antennas are up super-scanning! Great post!
January 10, 2022 at 3:20 pm
Dawn Mitchell
Thanks for sharing. I’ll be fine tuning my story antennas!
January 10, 2022 at 3:21 pm
Clement, Laura
My antennas love a good walk. They always pick up magic out exploring. Great post, love the idea of mashing them up!
January 10, 2022 at 3:35 pm
Susan Schade
A good reminder that ideas are all around, just waiting to be caught! Thank you!
January 10, 2022 at 3:37 pm
Diane O'Neill
Thank you so much! I love the idea of “mashing up” a topic with a value, and I’ve already thought of one fun idea, though no idea where it will go 🙂 Thanks!!!
January 10, 2022 at 3:41 pm
Megan Whitaker
A story within a story-great tip!
January 10, 2022 at 3:48 pm
Kim Hintze
Hooray for underdogs.
January 10, 2022 at 3:50 pm
paulabpuckett
“My job is to catch story ideas.” However, sometimes, these ever elusive little things flit high above the sky and other days…I feel like there’s a hole in the net. Thanks for sharing tips on how to work through all of this. 🙂
January 10, 2022 at 4:05 pm
Beth Elliott
What resonated with me in your post most in “values and truths you know” is that these speak more to theme than subject matter, but they can be very useful for story idea generation. Thank you for this post and congratulations on all of your upcoming books!
January 10, 2022 at 4:05 pm
jenwritespbs
I love the idea of mashing up truths/values with topics of interest. I think you actually may have given a new idea generating tip, even though you said you weren’t! 😉
January 10, 2022 at 4:06 pm
Marilyn R Garcia
I’ve started a practice of being quiet and asking my intuition to tell me what to work on next. It isn’t always a writing project, but it is always something I can get excited about.
January 10, 2022 at 4:07 pm
Emily Bertholf
Ha! I had Wonder Woman Underoos too! And I love a list. Two is better. Time to write and mash. Thanks!!
January 10, 2022 at 4:14 pm
MDalphin Williams Creative.Com
Thank you. It is wonderful to revisit “curiosity”. We just hosted grandkids.Our four year old was fixated on Curious George. The books and even movies are so much fun. Certainly a universal theme for kids and writers.
January 10, 2022 at 4:19 pm
Tara Shiroff
Wonderful post! Thank you for the wisdom.
January 10, 2022 at 4:23 pm
Micki Ginsberg
Great post . Thank you!
January 10, 2022 at 4:30 pm
Eva NMN Felder
Thank you Kirsten, this post is so inspiring. You are such a HERO for embracing underdog stories and enriching our lives with all those unknown characters. I love your book about Lilian Todd. Amazing research you did at the Library of Congress. Lilian was so resourceful to look for a job at the U.S. Patent Office to be near the plans of the new machines. Very smart idea the page “Lilian Todd grew up in a time when it seemed like everyone was tinkering…” I bet the kids looked for information about all the inventions shown.
I am fine-tuning my antennas to pick up the story ideas only I can write!
January 10, 2022 at 4:33 pm
Keeping the Me in Mommy
Oh! We would have been besties!! Love your ideas and am going to start flexing my antennas muscles more!
January 10, 2022 at 4:33 pm
Carrie Tillotson
I love the mash-up approach, Kirsten!
January 10, 2022 at 4:37 pm
Searra Simpson
This was one of my favorite posts so far! Thanks!
January 10, 2022 at 4:47 pm
Joannie Duris
Congratulations on your growing list of titles, Kirsten! Thanks for the concrete ways to tune our antennas. I especially love the idea of mashing things up and subverting notions of what a hero looks like.
January 10, 2022 at 4:50 pm
Sallye O'Rourke
Well said! Antennas up!
January 10, 2022 at 4:57 pm
Adrea
Being a scientist, we are often trained to observe the world around us (or maybe we do that automatically, and that’s why we’re scientists? :-)). In either case, I love the idea of having those ‘antennas’ up to really tune into the world as a way to find and see story ideas.
January 10, 2022 at 5:12 pm
Prairie Garden Girl
I agree with the reminder and the importance for a writer to be in touch with values and truths.
Thank you, Kirsten.
Suzy Leopold
January 10, 2022 at 5:22 pm
Elizabeth W Saba
Always great advice from you Kirsten! Thanks so much.
January 10, 2022 at 5:48 pm
Kim Parfitt
Positioning my wavelength net now!!!!
January 10, 2022 at 6:05 pm
Sarah Olivo
Love the idea of keeping your antennas up. How very doable! With that in mind, I listened to a friend tell me the story of the only fighter pilot (a female 💪) to ever manually land a military plane after the hydraulics had been shot. What a great idea for a PB bio! Don’t think I would have caught it without your antenna post. 🙂
January 10, 2022 at 6:06 pm
njoynlif13
Go deep. Examine your values and truths. Pay attention. I love it.
January 10, 2022 at 6:31 pm
Virginia Rinkel
Wow, a lot of people have entered a comment. I so appreciate you. You had some helpful words for me in a 12×12 post. 2021 was a medical menagerie for me, but I’m hoping to get my antenna up now for a visual opening of my latest story idea. Thank you again for your words.
January 10, 2022 at 6:33 pm
Hannah Roy LaGrone
Story antennas! So fun!
January 10, 2022 at 6:39 pm
TonyaAnn
I love the ‘mash it up’ in just ten minutes, I came up with a dozen fresh takes on old story ideas!
January 10, 2022 at 6:39 pm
Marlena Leach
Experimenting/exploring with my own values and interests will give a strong voice to my perspective of how I view a specific person/subject matter. Thanks!
January 10, 2022 at 6:49 pm
Stephanie Lau
Great idea! LISTS!
January 10, 2022 at 7:04 pm
michellesteinberg14849dcf0b
I love this formula: “topic of interest” + “truth/value = PB
Thanks for giving us a new way to find inspiration!
January 10, 2022 at 7:17 pm
Amy Newbold
Thanks for the great advice. And who doesn’t love Wonder Woman? Great post.
January 10, 2022 at 7:35 pm
Amanda Malek-Ahmadi
Thank you for the list making categories. I look forward to trying this and weeing what come out. Congrats on all your publications.
January 10, 2022 at 8:00 pm
Donna Marx
I love the “mash-up” idea!
January 10, 2022 at 8:21 pm
ingridboydston
This is a truly exciting way to look at ideas, thank you for the process!
January 10, 2022 at 8:33 pm
Elayne
From one Underoo-wearing girl to another, thank you! Love this idea and am already forming my lists to see what mash-ups spark! Such a great way to make sure you find a story you will be passionate about!
January 10, 2022 at 8:45 pm
lorisherritt
I am eternally curious when it comes to the underdogs of history or the lesser told yet highly dramatic stories of humankind…never thought of combining it with my values and then mashing it up! Used your 3 step plan and I’ve surprised myself today by coming up with 2 potential book ideas and also written in different genres, based on things I am passionate about. Thank you!
January 10, 2022 at 9:00 pm
Jen Walsh
This was a really beautiful and inspiring post. I’m excited to see what Mashing it Up reveals!
January 10, 2022 at 9:13 pm
Chelle Martin
Thanks for sharing.
January 10, 2022 at 9:20 pm
angiecal76
What an enlightening post with so many golden nuggest of wisdom. Glad to hear you also gravitate toward the underdogs.
January 10, 2022 at 9:39 pm
cbcole
I love the idea of mashing up your two lists. I wrote a story about a chicken and adoption.
January 10, 2022 at 9:46 pm
Cassie
Thank you for this helpful and inspirational post!
January 10, 2022 at 10:23 pm
Deborah Foster
Thank you, Kirsten! I kept my antennas up today and found an idea in a writer’s workshop!
January 10, 2022 at 10:44 pm
Joyce
Relax and do what you love most is the best advice and permission ever. Aren’t we lucky to be writers! Thank you, Kirsten!
January 10, 2022 at 11:05 pm
Allison Strick (she/her) (@byallisonstrick)
This was a great exercise–thank you!
January 10, 2022 at 11:15 pm
Laurie Seaford
Great advice, Kristen! Your closing comment, “Every time I finish a project, I worry I’ll never find another just-right idea”, gave me peace.
January 10, 2022 at 11:57 pm
Liz Godfrey
I don’t think I’ll ever run dry of ideas with my new antennas. Thank you, Kirsten – great advice!!
January 11, 2022 at 12:50 am
Alexandra Guest
Love this practical advice for idea generation and drawing on own experiences and values.Thanks!
January 11, 2022 at 1:04 am
Jacqueline Johnson
This is really great advice. What about a really interesting historical figure but whom there is not a lot of info available?
January 11, 2022 at 2:21 am
Diana Marie Linton
I had taken my time to really think about this one and feel like I got some great momentum! Thank you!
January 11, 2022 at 2:39 am
kdgwrites
Thank you for the fresh ideas. My antenna are up and searching!
January 11, 2022 at 4:00 am
Debbie Meneses
Consider my values and my truths. Who are my heroes? Why so? What did the hero accomplish that is of significance to me? How does it change my perspective from before? How does it impact humanity? What stories have been told about this hero? What stories are not yet told. Stories about underrepresented people and how they are impacted by the historical culture of the times.
January 11, 2022 at 6:00 am
littleredstoryshed
Related to so much of this Kirsten! Thank you.
January 11, 2022 at 7:32 am
angkunkel
I LOVE the idea of layering interests with personal values and truths. Thank you so much for this inspirational post, Kirsten!
January 11, 2022 at 7:38 am
PoppyCornfield
Lots to go at there. I look at my childhood and background as very ordinary but I am going to mine down and find something interesting!
January 11, 2022 at 7:51 am
Jen K.
Thanks for this fabulous strategy! I often think of interests and the theme comes later. Mashing these two lists up brings up endless possibilities.
January 11, 2022 at 7:52 am
Christina Shawn
I love this idea and also I love the idea to identify common values and themes running through my writing. What fun! Thank you!
January 11, 2022 at 9:10 am
Sandie
Love how you found Lilian in another book. Great strategies to use. Thank you.
January 11, 2022 at 9:11 am
growingbookbybook
I love this strategy. Can’t wait to try it out today.
January 11, 2022 at 11:44 am
cinzialverde
Kirsten, I love your advice! I am never short of ideas (bad ideas, that is. Good ideas are harder to come by : ), but I love this as a way to find compelling ideas to me. Thank you!
January 11, 2022 at 12:15 pm
karammitchell
Kirsten! This is great exercise. I hadn’t thought about in terms of matching with core values. I keep coming back to the same story idea. I guess I have to write it! Thanks!!
January 11, 2022 at 12:23 pm
jimchaize1
I am raising my antennas today in hopes of discovery. Thanks, Kirsten.
January 11, 2022 at 12:28 pm
Jane Dippold (@janedippold)
I love this idea that brings in a writer’s point of view! Thank you!
January 11, 2022 at 12:30 pm
kdgwrites
Same here.gonna get the antenna up and turned on! Thank you for the advice.
January 11, 2022 at 12:57 pm
Traci
So happy to connect with you here, Kirsten! Thank you for these excellent reminders and inspiration!! Antennas up! 😊
January 11, 2022 at 12:57 pm
Angie
My antennas have been lazy lately. Time for a tune up! Thanks for the tip!
January 11, 2022 at 1:19 pm
Carrie Williford (@carrietimes)
I also had Wonder Woman underoos! I always find that going back to what I know or am interested in makes me feel “comfortable,” which then allows me to feel more free to explore.
January 11, 2022 at 2:56 pm
Ryan Roberts
As always, such words of wisdom! So excited for you books coming out!
January 11, 2022 at 3:48 pm
Joyce Schriebman
Entrances to creativity are EVERYWHERE! Antennas up!
January 11, 2022 at 3:55 pm
Laurel Ranveig Abell
Fantastic advice!! Thanks, Kristen!
January 11, 2022 at 4:34 pm
writeknit
Love the matchup and antennas ideas – thanks for the inspiration.
January 11, 2022 at 4:44 pm
KeelyWrites
Antennae. Yes. This is a really helpful reminder.
January 11, 2022 at 4:48 pm
Natasha Garnett
I like writing lists. Your post got me making more. Thank you, Kirsten.
January 11, 2022 at 5:00 pm
Lisa M. Horn
Thank you for your inspiration! Those were excellent thoughts/questions to get the ideas churning.
January 11, 2022 at 5:20 pm
Karen Greenwald
Love this, Kirsten! Great post! Thanks:)
January 11, 2022 at 5:26 pm
Stephanie Wildman
Love the reminder to think of mashing it up. Thank you and congrats on all your books!
January 11, 2022 at 6:03 pm
Deb Buschman (@DebBuschman)
Thanks Kirsten! I so agree with mining ideas with the subjects you love.
January 11, 2022 at 6:08 pm
Ann Page
What a great idea, Kirsten!
I loved Rosie Revere, but never stopped to consider the sketches or investigate further. When I read your Wood, Wire, Wings book, I remember thinking what a unique idea it was: grouping these disparate things that all serve the same function. Thanks for the inspiration.
January 11, 2022 at 6:18 pm
Dianne
I love the “values and truths” part. I often start here. But I really love “mash it up.” Great idea. Thanks!!
January 11, 2022 at 7:44 pm
Trine Grillo
I have a notebook of “future story ideas.” Whenever my antennae pick up on something I jot it down. They don’t always make sense, but you give me hope!
January 11, 2022 at 7:50 pm
kbrandyberry
I also love the underdog! Great article about paying attention to what seems to draw you in. Thanks!
January 11, 2022 at 9:44 pm
libbydemmon
Thank you for your characteristically spot-on advice. Also… you get to work with Barbara McClintock! I love her work! Crossing my fingers for that zoom chat with you.
January 11, 2022 at 10:30 pm
Jessica Fries-Gaither
I adore this post! My antennae are raised and twitching!!
January 11, 2022 at 10:54 pm
kathydoherty1
I love “get in touch with your values and truths.”
January 11, 2022 at 11:07 pm
Judy
These are some fabulous tips!
January 11, 2022 at 11:12 pm
Amy Mucci
Just finished my lists! Thanks for the great inspiration
January 11, 2022 at 11:51 pm
Michelle Kashinsky
Wow, great inspiration, thank you!!
January 12, 2022 at 1:13 am
katherineerin
Kirsten, thank you for reminding me to think about my truths!
January 12, 2022 at 1:24 am
Aly Kenna
Thank you Kirsten. Looking forward to your new releases 🙂
January 12, 2022 at 1:35 am
Rebecca Sheraton
Fantastic ideas!
January 12, 2022 at 8:10 am
cath jones
I never knew that about Wonder Woman – shocking!
January 12, 2022 at 9:30 am
Phyllis Mignard
Great tips and wonderful article!
January 12, 2022 at 10:21 am
Mary Beth Rice
Wonder!
January 12, 2022 at 10:50 am
Anita M Banks
Thank you!
January 12, 2022 at 11:43 am
Viviane Elbee
Great post! Thanks for sharing
January 12, 2022 at 11:49 am
JC
Thanks for your post! I need to hone in on my antennas!
January 12, 2022 at 11:53 am
Lorraine Cooke
I loved the ideas in this post
January 12, 2022 at 12:17 pm
Cassie Bentley
I’m ready to try mashing up ideas and seeing what happens. Thanks for the inspiration.
January 12, 2022 at 1:57 pm
naturewalkwithgod
Thank you, Kirsten, for teaching us how to tune our antennas. A fun way to look at finding ideas. 🙂 –Kim Peterson
January 12, 2022 at 2:22 pm
Sylvia Mary Grech
Great ideas! Thanks for posting.
January 12, 2022 at 2:26 pm
lois1952
Love the mash up concept. Going to give it a try right now, and go back to last year’s list to see what I can massage into something new.
January 12, 2022 at 3:19 pm
Jessica Milo
I love this idea of finetuning your story antennae instead of thinking you need to create new ideas – they are out there in the world and in our mind, we just have to make those connections and find those ideas! Love the idea of mashing up the first two steps. I am going to use this, thank you!
January 12, 2022 at 3:31 pm
Leslie Norris
This is great! Thank you for the tips.
January 12, 2022 at 6:40 pm
Rachelle Burk
You had me at “NASA”…(I’m a space junkie! Had coffee with astronaut Jeff Hoffman last month in Boston). Can’t wait to read your book!
January 12, 2022 at 7:54 pm
Tonnye Fletcher
From one Wonder Woman fan to another (I didn’t have the Underoos, but I TOTALLY had the plastic Halloween costume ;-), thank you so much, and YES! to story antenna. Love the mash-up idea! That’s a new way of thinking about it for me, and one that will be very helpful! And I got the seed of an idea just from reading your post! Yay! Thanks so much!
January 12, 2022 at 8:52 pm
supermario6
Wow! What a generous prize! Congratulations on your success!
January 12, 2022 at 9:40 pm
Patricia B. Ellson
Thank you for the realizations your post inspired! Based on your advice I started a list of topics and another of values and before I stopped a couple of ideas just materialized like….magic!
January 12, 2022 at 11:46 pm
Marzieh Abbas
Wow Kirsten, you never fail to amaze me! I love the way you put it- and I agree 100%
January 13, 2022 at 1:44 am
Pauline Cleary
Kirsten, I love the idea of ideas floaring about, waiting to be caught. It’s both magical and practical! Thank you 🙂
January 13, 2022 at 4:31 am
Hanna Geshelin
“mashing up” details from the two lists is such a great idea! Thanks!
January 13, 2022 at 11:51 am
Caren Cantrell
Thanks for the inspiration! I love making lists.
January 13, 2022 at 12:16 pm
Sandy Perlic
Thanks for this post, Kirsten! I’d been in something of a Storystorm idea drought, and this was just the thing to get the ideas flowing again.
January 13, 2022 at 12:44 pm
ptnozell
Hoping that my antennae discover some fascinating story ideas soon! Thanks, Kirsten!
January 13, 2022 at 3:44 pm
mwolpin
Kirsten – Thank you for this post. My antennae are always working. And my database brain is always combining and recombining. Now if I could only verbalize my truths/values.
January 13, 2022 at 3:45 pm
nrompella
Thanks for getting me thinking!
January 13, 2022 at 3:59 pm
topangamaria
Have my antennas alert like Uncle Martin in My Favorite Martian.
January 13, 2022 at 8:33 pm
Karen Gebbia
great advice! thanks!
January 13, 2022 at 9:31 pm
jillcstuck
I find myself laying restless before best willing myself to just catch an idea. Worked last night and wrote the first draft this morning.
January 13, 2022 at 10:22 pm
🌱 𝚁𝚎𝚋𝚎𝚔𝚊𝚑 𝙻𝚘𝚠𝚎𝚕𝚕 🌻 (@RebekahLowell)
I love staying curious. Thanks for this great post. I’m a big fan of your work!! Also, so cool that Katherine is illustrating your next book! She and I went to Risd together! Cheers!
January 13, 2022 at 11:17 pm
gayleenrabakukk
Love these three steps – can’t wait to mash up my lists!
January 14, 2022 at 12:29 am
Judith Snyder
Great idea about mashing ideas together.
January 14, 2022 at 11:24 am
Judy Palermo
Over here, tuning my antennae! Thanks for the tips!
January 14, 2022 at 11:41 am
Rita Antoinette Borg
From rockets to picture books, will tell my professor husband about this. He thinks only science is a life worth living. Great advice, thank you
January 14, 2022 at 1:05 pm
Suzanne Poulter Harris
Excellent point about incorporating your values and truths. That’s what can turn a slight idea into a highly sought-after picture book.
January 14, 2022 at 4:39 pm
Cheryl MacAller
Already came up with an idea I love thanks to your suggestions!
January 14, 2022 at 5:09 pm
amyrsinn
Hi Kirsten! Yes, we can find ideas all around us if we just pay attention. Love the words of wisdom! Thanks.
January 14, 2022 at 8:46 pm
Stephanie D Jones
I have been thinking all day about mashing up my values and meaningful moments with story ideas! I just may have caught one!
January 14, 2022 at 11:22 pm
writersideup
I really love the way you approach this, Kirsten 😀 Thanks!
January 15, 2022 at 10:30 am
Kristy Nuttall
I love imagining “story antennas” on my head! Thanks for a great post!
January 15, 2022 at 10:43 am
Sheri Dillard
I love the idea of paying attention to what you pay attention to. 🙂 Thanks, Kirsten!
January 15, 2022 at 11:57 am
littleseedsread
Your 3-step approach to fine-tuning our antennas is fantastic. I love that you remind us to draw energy from our passions.
January 15, 2022 at 12:28 pm
amomnextdoor
How I would love to talk to you about my middle grade GN non-fiction WIP!
January 15, 2022 at 2:19 pm
Debbi G
Several good ideas to think about. Thanks for your inspiration.
January 15, 2022 at 2:40 pm
Dea Brayden
Wonderful post! Thank you. And putting your books on my list!
January 15, 2022 at 3:26 pm
Nazanin Ford
It is so true! Those ideas you don’t stop thinking about, the ones that you never get sick of through multiple revisions, are gold and they may be right there under your nose. Great post! Really enjoyed all the ideas and tips!
January 15, 2022 at 6:15 pm
Charlene Avery
Thanks for the fun & travels while reading your post! You took me all over the place and some ideas popped out, yay! Best wishes with all you’re doing.
January 15, 2022 at 6:58 pm
Heather Lee
I really liked the idea of a mash up of ideas and values, that could make for a very interesting PB idea. Thanks!
January 16, 2022 at 9:09 am
Lauri Meyers
This is a great idea generator Kirsten! Thank you
January 16, 2022 at 12:28 pm
Lou Aamodt
I sometimes wonder if my interests are TOO specific, but then again, those specific interests might make the most interesting books… Thanks for sharing.
January 16, 2022 at 1:06 pm
Kirsten Leestma
This is a great way to think about new ideas! Thank you.
January 16, 2022 at 2:09 pm
Kimberly Wilson
I love a good mash-up––and my antennas are ready! Thanks, Kirsten!
January 16, 2022 at 2:17 pm
Jan Milusich
Thanks for sharing!
January 16, 2022 at 2:37 pm
chrisynthia
This was a great exercise. I really pulled out some great things to develop into ideas. I also think it’s a list that I will share with my spouse and children so they might better understand my thoughts and feelings.
January 16, 2022 at 2:47 pm
Jolie Stekly
I think you are so right on about this. Thanks for sharing.
January 16, 2022 at 3:40 pm
Aimee Jenkins
Fantastic post! I try to have my antennas up when playing with my kids. So many ideas come from them. But I need to do better in other parts of my life.
January 16, 2022 at 6:05 pm
Susan Cabael
It’s so important to find the ideas that energize–thanks for reminding my antennae of that.
January 16, 2022 at 7:36 pm
H. Abigail Perry
Thanks for the great ideas!
January 16, 2022 at 8:05 pm
Dina Towbin
I love Wonder Woman. We need more female super heroes.
January 16, 2022 at 8:46 pm
Kellie
Absolutely love this … such a great reminder that the ideas are already there, we just need to take our blinkers off to find them. Thank you for sharing where some of your book ideas came from too.
January 16, 2022 at 10:37 pm
Susanne Whitehouse
Can’t wait to read your Wonder Woman book! Thank you for this post. 🙂
January 16, 2022 at 10:58 pm
calliebdean
There is so much wisdom in this post. I have a feeling I’m going to be coming back to this one for a while. Thanks, Kirsten!
January 17, 2022 at 12:13 am
Acamy Schleikron
This is such a great exercise! Thank you so much for sharing!
January 17, 2022 at 3:04 am
Megan McNamara
I may have just gotten an idea while reading this post!
January 17, 2022 at 11:10 am
Nadia Salomon
Thank you for this awesome post. I’m receptive to keeping my antennas up!
January 17, 2022 at 11:20 am
Lucky Jo Boscarino
A kid book about Wonder Woman!
January 17, 2022 at 12:33 pm
Melissa Hastings
My antennas are up and ready! Thank you.
January 17, 2022 at 12:52 pm
Joanne Roberts
For some reason it looks like my comment didn’t post. Thanks for the great information. Always love to hear your ideas.
January 17, 2022 at 12:54 pm
Alexis_Bookdragon
I can’t wait to read your Wonder Woman picture book!!!!
January 17, 2022 at 2:47 pm
Sharon Pegram
Thanks for the inspirational advice!
January 17, 2022 at 4:20 pm
Sue (Susan Uhlig) (she/her) (@susanuhlig)
Nice post.
January 17, 2022 at 4:56 pm
Angie Isaacs
Thanks for the idea!
January 17, 2022 at 5:30 pm
Elizabeth Metz
Any Storystorm suggestion that starts with “make a list” automatically goes on my aha list. LOVE ME some list-making.
January 17, 2022 at 5:54 pm
ljh22o
Thanks for the suggestions that will pep up my antenna
January 17, 2022 at 10:07 pm
Archaa
What a great concrete idea to really dive in to what gets your writing going!
January 18, 2022 at 1:44 am
Abraham Schroeder
Antennas up!
January 18, 2022 at 9:50 am
imeldauk
Mash up! I love that bit.
January 18, 2022 at 9:50 am
joanapastro
So that’s how you had the idea for your debut! I love it! Thanks for sharing!
January 18, 2022 at 3:14 pm
Kassy Keppol
Fun Ideas.
January 18, 2022 at 4:53 pm
Jennifer Raudenbush
Thanks for sharing and inspiring us!
January 18, 2022 at 6:20 pm
jensubra
Such valuable advice. Thanks so much!
January 18, 2022 at 10:37 pm
Judy Abelove Shemtob
There is tremendous excitement and smarts in the ideas you shared, Thanks Kirsten W. Larson!
January 19, 2022 at 4:19 am
Lisa Kingsford
Thankfully, we ‘tuned in’ to your great ideas today. I’m a firm believer that the ideas are out there, we just need to listen and bring them to life.
January 19, 2022 at 7:54 am
hansenjc13
I try to keep my eyes and ears open for new stories. I love the idea of tuning in your attenas. Thanks for the post
January 19, 2022 at 9:10 am
scienceewriter
LOVE your books!
January 19, 2022 at 9:45 am
Chelsea
Huzzah to writing what you know. I’ve always written characters I needed as a child. My favorite muse.
January 19, 2022 at 11:49 am
Jessica Dunnagan
Thank, Kirsten, for these great ideas, especially the reminder to keep our antennas up!
January 19, 2022 at 6:13 pm
syorkeviney
Kirsten… took copious notes on this!!! I love biographies and those that uplift change our lives… because they tell us we can do it! No matter what!
January 20, 2022 at 2:21 am
Jennifer Ennion
Thank you, Kristen. I really like the idea of focussing on hobbies and drawing inspiration from what we already know.
January 20, 2022 at 9:21 am
Nicole Loos Miller
Antennas raised! Thank you, Kirsten!
January 21, 2022 at 5:36 am
Anne Young
A wealth of opportunities present themselves. Thank you, Kirsten.
January 21, 2022 at 6:40 am
🇵🇪 Sara Fajardo 🇺🇸 (@safajarwrites)
How fun to learn about the inspiration for your first pb bio. Thank you for sharing!
January 21, 2022 at 9:49 pm
goodreadswithronna
I appreciate reading about the backstory for your book inspiration. It’s also validating to learn that we can mine story ideas from books already out there. Thank you, Kirsten.
January 22, 2022 at 1:55 pm
Christine Fleming McIsaac
Thanks for these great ideas!
January 22, 2022 at 4:35 pm
Rebecca Guzinski
I love the idea of paying attention to what’s around me. My antennae are up and reading to catch those sparks of ideas.
January 22, 2022 at 11:05 pm
Jaymie Dean
Thank you for the reminder to be alert and ready for that spark of an idea. Write from your passions.
January 23, 2022 at 1:17 am
Kris H
Thank you for your ideas!
January 23, 2022 at 2:38 am
Dani Duck
Looking forward to getting some golden ideas!
January 23, 2022 at 2:43 am
Dani Duck
I need to check on some of those seeds! Maybe plant and water them too!
January 23, 2022 at 6:58 am
Emma Wood
Great suggestions to hone in on ideas that move you. Thank you!
January 23, 2022 at 12:25 pm
KATHY Z PRICE
Got some great ideas just from your post–thanks Kirsten!
January 23, 2022 at 1:40 pm
Anna Brooks
I love this idea of mashing up interests and values. I tend to focus on interests, but this would give it a richer dimension that could really prompt a story. Thank you!
January 24, 2022 at 5:38 pm
Mary Ann Blair
I love that you used your background to inspire your picture books. Great idea!
January 24, 2022 at 9:17 pm
treuting
Love mash-ups and mix-ups. Forming some lists now, thank you! 🙂
January 24, 2022 at 9:57 pm
Devyn
Such great advice!
January 25, 2022 at 9:52 am
Federico Erebia / F. Jordan Erebia (@FedericoErebia)
Great ideas!
January 25, 2022 at 11:25 am
Amanda
All the more reason to carry around a notebook wherever you go–Story ideas are all around, you never know where you will be when those antennae pick up even the faintest of signal.
Writing what you are interested in an passionate about will bring an energy to your writing that readers won’t be able to get enough of!
January 25, 2022 at 1:21 pm
Brian Burak
This is some of my favorite brainstorming – thanks for the prompts!
January 26, 2022 at 5:31 pm
thelogonauts
Mash ups have proven to be one of my favorite Storystorm strategies yet! Love the idea of mining other books for ideas too … especially as I read aloud something for the umpteenth time to the 3 yo.
January 27, 2022 at 12:14 pm
midfreeman
Such an interesting way of looking at “generating” ideas!
January 27, 2022 at 11:51 pm
Zoraida Rivera
Your steps made me walk the path of reflection and memory. Thank you!
January 28, 2022 at 10:03 am
Andrea
I love cheering on underdogs, too. This post has made me want to write a story about an underdog. Thank you!
January 28, 2022 at 10:05 am
erica chace
i’m a natural observer so my antennas are always up.. it’s combining the ideas that’s tricky for me!
January 29, 2022 at 1:35 pm
LaurenKerstein
What a wonderful post and way to think about how to catch ideas! I just love thinking about ideas and how the interact with our natural interests and experiences. Thank you!
January 29, 2022 at 4:01 pm
Ilona Holland
You helped me generate a list of ideas right away. They were all in the form of questions I want to investigate and the mashups surprised me when they formed unique and new ways of looking at familiar subjects. Thanks. Ilona Holland
January 29, 2022 at 6:40 pm
Penny Taub
I love putting up my story antennas. That is something we tell young children when trying to help them find story ideas. How cool. Thank you for sharing your process.
January 30, 2022 at 12:21 am
Patricia B. Ellson
Love the perspective on underdogs – thanks for brainstorming ideas!
January 30, 2022 at 1:53 pm
kirstenpendreigh
Ah, so true. Wonderful reminder that you have to do more than simply tell a story. You have to bringing your values, your truth, your heart to the page to make it sing.
January 30, 2022 at 3:00 pm
kathryn hagen
The curiosity–values/truths mash-up hit home. Thank you!
January 30, 2022 at 3:53 pm
Jennifer
Thank you for sharing! This was a tough one for me but I was able to reflect and brainstorm a few things.
January 30, 2022 at 4:00 pm
Yaa
Thank you for sharing. It inspires me to do better on writing my poems.
January 30, 2022 at 8:51 pm
Mina
Story antennas – ready to receive 🙂
Thank you for an inspiring and fun post, Kirsten!
January 30, 2022 at 8:52 pm
Krista Maxwell
Thanks for the suggestion. I love books and movies that make me want to learn more about a topic or secondary character.
January 31, 2022 at 9:55 am
kristenrashid
So helpful to see these examples of how you caught the ideas for your books!
January 31, 2022 at 12:04 pm
lee77094
It’s going to be a Wonder Woman kinda day. I feel powerful!
January 31, 2022 at 12:27 pm
Ana Archi
Love the view that it can be about catching Ideas that capture your heart.
January 31, 2022 at 3:11 pm
Lucy Staugler
Kirsten,
Antennas up and wiggling away. Fabulous post!
Thank you,
Lucy Staugler
January 31, 2022 at 6:10 pm
nataliemoralesbooks
Thank you for sharing your writing process! My antennas are up!
January 31, 2022 at 7:18 pm
matike2209
Amazing advice! Thank you.
January 31, 2022 at 7:39 pm
Sylvia Chen
Will need to do this more actively, thank you!
January 31, 2022 at 10:17 pm
angelapadron
Such a great post with great advice. Thanks!
January 31, 2022 at 11:02 pm
Jennifer Broedel
Ohhhh, using personal values in a mash-up is such great advice- I’ve never tried that before! I’ll keep it in my toolbox from now on, though- thanks!
February 1, 2022 at 12:34 am
Kristin Sawyer
I find this post so inspiring. Thank you for sharing. Also, I might not have had the Underoos, but I was a huge Wonder Woman fan, too!
February 1, 2022 at 1:43 am
Terri Sabol
I had Underoos too. Haha! Thanks for sharing, Kirsten!
February 1, 2022 at 3:35 am
Azra Rahim
You are seriously inspiring. Writing what is important is important to me.
Thank you!
February 1, 2022 at 3:27 pm
kaitlinsikeswrites
Thanks!
February 1, 2022 at 5:58 pm
Jennifer Hunt
Great analogy–ideas are already out there–we just need to put up our antennas.
February 5, 2022 at 6:17 pm
Cheryl MacAller
I love this way of thinking about story ideas!
February 7, 2022 at 4:51 pm
Mary-Claire
Very helpful advice!